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Amazing Guide

2011-06-01T22:41:00.001-05:00

Daily Devotional, June 1, 2011 "Amazing Guide"

Amazing Guide

read›
Joshua 1:1-9
Not a single one of all the good promises the Lord had given to the
family of Israel was left unfulfilled; everything He had spoken came true
(21:45).

Marion Cotillard, an actress in Christopher Nolan’s
movie Inception, says of the director, “Things
that I didn’t really get while we were shooting,
I knew were maybe not to be understood. I found it very
interesting to allow myself to be lost, because I knew that
I had this amazing guide who would take us to a place
where you really live the experience, because you abandon
yourself for a story and a director that will make it all work.”

I think Joshua could have said similar things about
the Director of his life. In today’s Scripture passage, the
newly commissioned leader of Israel is standing at the
threshold of Canaan. Moses, his mentor, has died. He’s
the new top dog, and the weight of the responsibility must
have been palpable. Twice God told him, “Be strong
and courageous” (Joshua 1:6,9). And once He said it
with emphasis, “Be strong and very courageous (v.7). It’s
not difficult to imagine Joshua’s fear and apprehension.
More than 2 million Israelites were looking to him to lead
them to their homeland. How would he do it? God didn’t
provide him with a detailed script, but He did give Joshua
assurances and commandments.

Essentially, God’s assurances were: l’ll be with you. I
won’t give up on you. I won’t leave you. I will be with you
every step you take (vv.5,9). And God’s commandment
was: Make sure you study and practice everything written
in My Word (vv.7-8). Joshua’s response? Complete
devotion and surrender to his amazing Guide.

Near the close of his life, Joshua proclaimed, “Not a single one of all the good
promises the Lord had given to the family of Israel was left unfulfilled; everything
He had spoken came true” (21:45).

We too can abandon ourselves to a story and to a Director who “will make it
all work.” —Poh Fang Chia

more›
Read Psalm 16:5-11
to see David’s
understanding of his
amazing Guide.

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Convinced

2011-06-01T10:28:00.000-05:00

Daily Devotional, May 31, 2011 "Convinced"

Convinced

read›
James 2:17-24
Humans can reproduce only human life, but the Holy Spirit gives birth to
spiritual life (John 3:6).

Someday I want to go skydiving. While I’m not
overly fond of heights, I think there’s something
incredible about jumping out of an airplane with
a parachute (and an instructor soaring tandem with me!).
As kids, my sister and I would jump off our second-story
deck into the huge mounds of snow that covered our
front yard in the dead of winter. One time I even jumped
off the roof of a friend’s house (single story) into the deep
end of a pool. As a general rule, though, I don’t jump off
buildings. I’m convinced that gravity is real.

When it comes to spiritual things, we can’t separate
what we believe is real from the way we act. John 3:16
is priceless in communicating the truth of God’s love for
us. Our beliefs are not measured by our mental assent to
Jesus being the Lord of our lives, but by the actions we
live out in submission to Him.

John 3:33 says, “He who has received His testimony
has set his seal to this, that God is true” (NASB). Those
who believe put their confidence in the reality that God—
and His Word—are true. Because they understand the
connection between belief and obedience (Joshua 22:5;
John 3:36), they are convinced to the point of action.
Jesus paid the price so we could have the abundant,
free life He promises (John 8:31-32, 10:10). To choose
Christ is to become a new creation, not by our own
works but by His grace—the same grace that empowers
us to act in accordance with our belief (2 Corinthians 5:17; 2 Timothy 1:9).

We cheapen the cross when our Christianity goes no deeper than to
acknowledge in our minds that Jesus is the Son of God. Even the demons
recognized as much (Luke 4:33-35; James 2:19). May our actions reflect our
belief in Jesus. —Regina Franklin

more›
Read John 14:14-21
to see the connection
between the work of the
Holy Spirit in us and our
obedience to Jesus.

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No Satisfaction

2011-05-30T13:26:00.001-05:00

Daily Devotional, May 30, 2011 "No Satisfaction"

No Satisfaction

read›
Psalm 103
He fills my life with good things. My youth is renewed like the eagle’s! (v.5).

In May of 1965, The Rolling Stones recorded the song
I Can’t Get No Satisfaction. Shortly after its release,
the tune rose to the No. 1 song in the United States.
How right they were. No matter how much we try and
try and try, satisfaction seems to slip through our fingers.
But is it true that satisfaction is impossible to find in this
life? Or could it be that we tend to look for it in all the
wrong places? Maybe the true source of satisfaction is
right under our noses, but we don’t see it because we’re
trying so hard to obtain it on our own.

Consider these words from the Old Testament prophet
Isaiah as he declared the words of the coming Messiah:
“Is anyone thirsty? Come and drink—even if you have no
money! Come, take your choice of wine or milk—it’s all
free! Why spend your money on food that does not give
you strength? Why pay for food that does you no good?
Listen to Me, and you will eat what is good. You will
enjoy the finest food” (Isaiah 55:1-2). Souls delighting in
the “finest of food,” hmm—sounds pretty fulfilling to me.
Jesus would later illustrate this reality another way
when He spoke these words to a woman who had a
history of turning to men to find satisfaction: “Anyone
who drinks this water will soon become thirsty again.
But those who drink the water I give will never be thirsty
again. It becomes a fresh, bubbling spring within them,
giving them eternal life” (John 4:13-14).

Jesus didn’t say we can’t find satisfaction in our relationships, work, or
hobbies. But He did say that without finding it first in Him, it won’t be complete.
So, where are you trying to find your satisfaction? —Jeff Olson

more›
Check out Matthew 5:6
to read another comment
Jesus made about
satisfaction.

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Time & Chance

2011-05-27T11:21:00.001-05:00

Daily Devotional, May 26, 2011 "Time & Chance"

Time & Chance

read›
Ecclesiastes 9:1-12
The fastest runner doesn’t always win the race,
and the strongest warrior doesn’t always win
the battle. . . . It is all decided by chance, by
being in the right place at the right time (v.11).

John Tesvich was prepared for anything. When low
rainfall or hurricanes disrupted his business, the
fourth-generation oysterman waited it out by reducing
staff until conditions improved. When consumers worried
about bacteria present in raw oysters, John’s company
invented a unique pasteurization process that made them
safe to eat.

But John never anticipated the BP oil spill. The defective
oil rig was 41 miles away from him, but 2 months after it
blew up it had ruined enough oysters in the Gulf of Mexico
to close John’s company. “Nothing is more insidious than
this oil spill,” said John at the time. “This thing keeps
spewing oil, and nothing can be done about it.”
John’s experience is a reminder that our success
depends upon factors beyond our control. We assume
that others will act responsibly, but when they don’t we
suffer the collateral damage. Careers have ended on the
whim of an impetuous boss, office gossip, or disloyal
subordinates. Jobs have disappeared in certain countries
as a bubble, or bailout in others have led to depressed
economies. The fragility of an interconnected society led
Solomon to observe that “The wise sometimes go hungry,
and the skillful are not necessarily wealthy. And those
who are educated don’t always lead successful lives”
(Ecclesiastes 9:11).

The haphazard draw of time and chance would be
discouraging if it were not for God. Ecclesiastes 3:9-15 informs us that “God
has made everything beautiful for its own time” (v.11), and He is sovereign:
“Whatever God does is final. Nothing can be added to it or taken from it” (v.14).
Consider the many factors that contribute to your success. Include the benefits
of nature, family, and country. Then tell God you know it’s all because of Him.
—Mike Wittmer

more›
Pray Psalm 104 back
to God to celebrate
the many ways He
continually provides
for you and the rest of
creation.

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A Symbol of Forgiveness (Part 4) - Sheila Walsh

2011-05-24T13:10:00.000-05:00

Daily Devotional, May 24, 2011 "A Symbol of Forgiveness - Sheila Walsh"

Episode 4 - A Symbol of Forgivenesswith Sheila Walsh

Watch Episode 4 Now. CLICK HERE.

On a Sunday morning in 2009, Pastor Fred Winters was brutally gunned down as he delivered a sermon in front of his church congregation. The story made national headlines not only for the story itself, but also for his wife Cindy's forgiveness of the man who pulled the trigger.

Sheila Walsh taped a webisode series with Cindy Winters and Emmy winning Life Focus Productions titled “A Symbol of Forgiveness” where the two of them talk through Cindy’s remarkable story. Part four of the four-part series is now available.

Watch Episode 4 Now. CLICK HERE.

Strength - For When You Feel Things Are Crashing Around You

In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.

- John 16:33

In 1992, my life fell apart and I lost touch with everyone. I sat in the psychiatrist’s office in the hospital, and I could hear him talking to me, but it was as if I was listening through glass or trapped inside a goldfish bowl. His eyes were kind, and his posture as he leaned forward seemed to invite trust, but I was done with that. He talked to me about recent developments in understanding clinical depression and new medications that were more efficient in arresting that crushing feeling of disappearing a little bit more each day. I could tell that he was offering me hope, but I wasn’t taking it.

It’s not that I saw him as anything other than the fine doctor he proved to be. I just wasn’t interested. He offered the first few steps on a path to recovery and wellness, and I didn’t want it. The drip, drip, drip of depression had taken its toll until I finally felt as if I were drowning and had no strength or desire left to fight.

In the days and weeks that followed the beginning of my treatment, I can only describe it as being aware of the faintest glimmer of light. “Unless the Lord had given me help, I would soon have dwelt in the silence of death. When I said, ‘My foot is slipping,’ your love, O Lord, supported me. When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought joy to my soul” (Psalm 94:17–19).

There is something holy that God has tucked into suffering. As I fell off the edge of my life, I discovered that I had always been held. In some mysterious way, it was as if God reached out and grabbed hold of me and lifted me. I was physically weak and emotionally worn out, but aware of the beginnings of oneness with Jesus.

This is a key to tapping into the power of allowing Christ, who overcame the world to help you through your troubles and sufferings. You have to finally come to the end of yourself and decide, no matter what the cost, you want to be free to love Christ and follow Him wherever that leads. I had to decide in the psych ward that I no longer wanted to live a safe, comfortable, cold life. I wanted to live abandoned to God. I began to see that too often I was only willing to give God as much as I could afford to lose or had lost already. True strength invites us to live with an open heart and soul, knowing that Christ has a good, strong hold on us.

I don’t speak of these things lightly. As you read these words, you might be in the middle of unimaginable grief. What I want you to remember or know for the first time is that Christ has been to the bottom of the pit of grief. He tasted the worst dregs that hell can pour out, and He rose again to set us free and secure for us a destiny with Him forever—a destiny that Satan cannot touch. As we walk on our unique path that will take us home, He promises to walk with us and to help us overcome.

1. God promised Isaiah, “I will give you hidden treasures, riches stored in secret places, so that you may know that I am the Lord, the God of Israel, who summons you by name” (Isaiah 45:3). What treasures have you discovered in the darkness of your journey?

2. How can we know, or how can we remind ourselves, that God is there upholding us even when the night is black and the pain is crowding the life out of us? What, specifically, can you do to hold on to the hope of God’s light when all you see is blackness?

3. Jesus’ promise is, “Take heart! I have overcome the world.” How does this change your perspective today?

This Bible study is an excerpt from chapter 1 of The Shelter of God’s Promisesby Sheila Walsh.

Sheila Walsh’s new book, The Shelter of God’s Promises, available now. CLICK HERE.

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The Benediction

2011-05-23T23:55:00.000-05:00

Daily Devotional, May 23, 2011 "The Benediction"

The Benediction

read›
Numbers 6:22-27
May the Lord bless you and protect you. May
the Lord smile on you and be gracious to you.
May the Lord show you His favor and give you His peace
(vv.24-26).

In many churches, as part of the liturgy, the pastor
closes the worship service with a benediction (good
pronouncement) invoking God’s help and blessings
upon the worshipers.

There are many benedictions in the Bible (for example:
Psalm 121:7-8; Romans 15:13; 2 Cor. 13:14; Ephesians
3:20-21; Jude 1:24-25). One of the most famous biblical
benedictions was used in the movie Deep Impact. Before
the big comet crashed to earth, the US President (played
by Morgan Freeman) said: “The Lord bless you and keep
you; the Lord make His face shine upon you and be
gracious to you; the Lord turn His face toward you and
give you peace” (Numbers 6:24-26 NIV).

As they wandered through the wilderness, the Israelites
knew they wouldn’t make it to the Promised Land
without God’s help. They looked to Him for the basic
necessities of food, water and protection. The repetition
of God’s covenantal name, “the Lord” (Yahweh), was a
reminder of God’s faithful involvement in their lives. This
benediction is a reminder that as we journey through
this dangerous and evil world, we too would not survive
without His favor, grace, and mercy.

In his book Bless You, Bible teacher Warren Wiersbe
wrote of Numbers 6:24-26, “This benediction may be
the most quoted of all the benedictions.” Although the
benediction was intended for Israel as a people of God,
“the six ‘you’ pronouns are all singular, indicating that
God’s blessing is for the individual.”

The next time you hear a pastor pronouncing this benediction at the end of
a worship service, remember that it’s a petition on your behalf, asking and
affirming that God Himself will provide for and protect you (v.24), assuring you
of His presence (vv.25-26), pardon (v.25), and peace (v.26). —K.T. Sim

more›
What do the biblical
benedictions in Ephesians
3:20-21, Jude 1:24-25,
and Hebrews 13:20-21
say about God and you?

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Sacred Spaces

2011-05-20T21:23:00.001-05:00

Daily Devotional, May 20, 2011 "Sacred Spaces"

Sacred Spaces

read›
Acts 17:16-34
His purpose was for the nations to seek after God and perhaps feel
their way toward Him and find Him—though He is not far from any
one of us. For in Him we live and move and exist (vv.27-28).

Atorii is a traditional Japanese gate typically painted
brilliant red and found at the entrance of Shinto
shrines and Japanese Buddhist temples devoted
to particular gods. Adherents to those religions believe it
marks the point where one leaves the secular world and
enters the holy. A large and famous torii stands off the
shore of Miyajima Island in the Hiroshima Prefecture of
Japan. Visitors are informed it’s “sacred” space.
Sacred sites are common in most religions. Hindus
trek to Varanasi, located on the banks of the Ganges
River; neopagans make their pilgrimage to Stonehenge.
A sacred space is where a god or spiritual power is
thought to be unusually present.

To the Greeks of Athens, the apostle Paul stood on
sacred ground as he spoke to them on the Areopagus
(Mars Hill). With its links to the gods Mars and Ares,
the hill also stands a stone’s throw away from the
Parthenon—the temple of the goddess Athena. Among a
plethora of gods, Paul had seized an opportunity to talk
about another “unknown” God (Acts 17:23).

This God, Paul explained, was Creator and Lord of
the whole world—rather than parts of it, like the Greek
gods (v.24). Greece’s gods had limited powers, but this
God controlled the destiny of each individual on the
planet (vv.25-26). Greece’s gods had limited spheres of
influence, but this God was literally everywhere (v.27).

Paul’s message is important for all believers in Jesus, for we have our own
version of sacred space: the church sanctuary. We “meet” God there on Sunday
morning and then head into the “secular” world on Monday. But if the one true
God is present everywhere, then everywhere is sacred space.
And that makes your workplace, campus, and home a place of worship too.
—Sheridan Voysey

more›
Read 1 Kings 8:27,
Psalm 139:7-10,
Jeremiah 23:23-24, and
Hebrews 4:13 for more
references of God’s
omnipresence.

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Protecting Life - embryonic stem cells

2011-05-19T16:58:00.000-05:00

Daily Devotional, May 19, 2011 "Protecting Life"

Protecting Life

read›
Jeremiah 1:1-8
I knew you before I formed you in your mother’s womb (v.5).

Russell Turnbull was riding a bus one night when
a fight broke out. He tried to intervene, but in the
process someone sprayed ammonia into his right
eye. The powerful liquid scarred his cornea, causing
him to lose sight and experience chronic pain. A doctor
was able to cut away a tiny portion of Turnbull’s other
cornea and use adult stem cells to grow a patch for the
damaged one. “The operation was a complete success,
and I now have my sight back,” says Turnbull.

The medical advances and miracles achieved
through using adult stem cells is remarkable. Sadly,
some scientists continue to push the unproductive use
of embryonic stem cells. Those cells can be obtained
only through the destruction of human embryos . . . the
destruction of life.

There are many verses in God’s Word that provide
insight into the moral and ethical ramifications of
destroying embryos: “God created human beings in His
own image” (Genesis 1:27); “You made all the delicate,
inner parts of my body and knit me together in my
mother’s womb” (Psalm 139:13); “The Lord . . . formed
me in my mother’s womb” (Isaiah 49:5).

The prophet Jeremiah received this message from
God: “I knew you before I formed you in your mother’s
womb” (1:5). God Himself stated that embryos are His
precious, living handiwork. To destroy them goes against
God and His holy commands (Exodus 20:13).

As believers in Jesus, we should strongly oppose embryonic stem cell research.
Due to the successful use of adult stem cells, it’s unnecessary. And as we lift our
voices in opposition, we can take these words from God to heart: “Don’t be
afraid of the people, for I will be with you and will protect you” (Jeremiah 1:8).
Let’s help protect human life—even in its tiniest forms. —Tom Felten

more›
In Ecclesiastes 11:5, Solomon states the extent
of God’s involvement in the creation of life and
all natural happenings. Meditate on how this
should affect our view of the unnatural destruction
of embryos.

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A Symbol of Forgiveness - Sheila Walsh

2011-05-17T20:49:00.001-05:00

Daily Devotional, May 17, 2011 "A Symbol of Forgiveness - Sheila Walsh"

Episode 3 - A Symbol of Forgivenesswith Sheila Walsh

Watch Episode 3 Now. CLICK HERE.

Grace – For When I Have Failed

My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.

- 2 Corinthians 12:9

It is hard to believe that God loves each of us equally, without measure or merit, and that His grace shelters us regardless of what we do or leave undone. I think it’s so hard because there is no other relationship on earth like that. Every other relationship we have is affected, to some extent, by how we behave and what we say.

In a friendship, if we abuse that relationship in any way, there are consequences. We become more distant and formal. At times, if our behavior is inappropriate enough, it will cost us that friend. For the child who yells, screams, or refuses to listen to a parent, there’s a cause and effect. In marriage, a couple stands before God, family, and friends to vow love to one another until death parts them. Yet about half of all marriages end in divorce because of our behavior and choices.Every earthly relationship proves to us that love and acceptance is conditional, and we can mess it up at a moment’s notice.

That’s why being loved forever based on nothing but someone else’s ability to love unconditionally is hard to hold on to. Doesn’t each of us struggle to believe in such love, such grace? Don’t we each find that earthly love fails us, both intentionally and, as in death or tragic separations, unintentionally?

In the New Testament, a fresh wave of grace bursts upon us. In the Greek, the word for “grace” is translated charis, from which we get the word charity, also meaning “love,” “goodwill,” and “loving-kindness.” To participate in this grace, this unmerited favor, the only requirement is a relationship with Jesus Christ:

Consequently, just as the result of one trespass was condemnation for all men, so also the result of one act of righteousness was justification that brings life for all men. For just as through the disobedience of the one man the many were made sinners, so also through the obedience of the one man the many will be made righteous. The law was added so that the trespass might increase. But where sin increased, grace increased all the more. (Romans 5:18–20)

Paul emphasizes this in talking to the Romans. The grace of God, he says, is free but never to be seen as a license to sin: “What shall we say, then? Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase? By no means! We died to sin; how can we live in it any longer?” (Romans 6:1–2). So, on one hand, we have this gift that we can never earn or pay back; and on the other, we are called into relationship, where the closer we get to God’s heart, the more like Him we become and the less we want to sin.

It sounds complicated, doesn’t it? Yet one thing is crystal clear: God is always the initiator of this love and mercy—of the kind of strength that fills in our weaknesses, the kind of perfection that covers our flaws, and the kind of shelter that says, “I’m going to keep you and love you through all your failings.” God is the one who pursues us, who woos us to this place of grace, to the shelter of His promises.

1. Do you, deep down, believe that God loves all of us equally; or do you think He actually likes people more when they have dedicated their lives to service and sacrifice?

2. How have you experienced God’s “unprecedented, outrageous, overwhelming” love?

This Bible study is an excerpt from chapter 1 of The Shelter of God’s Promisesby Sheila Walsh.

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Google & Grace

2011-05-16T12:42:00.001-05:00

Daily Devotional, May 16, 2011 "Google & Grace"

Google & Grace

read›
Titus 2:11-14
We should live in this evil world with wisdom, righteousness, and
devotion to God (v.12).

For the Internet that brings connection has appeared
to all men. It teaches us to say ‘Yes’ to YouTube and
Facebook, and to live me-controlled, self-indulgent
and quick-fix lives in this present age, while we wait for
the blessed ‘beep’—the glorious appearing of our friend
on MSN.”

When a friend created this quote, by replacing some
words in the NIV version of Titus 2:12-13, and shared
it with us, it made us laugh! Yet, after the laughter, we
were reminded of a sobering reality: That’s not the way
we ought to live. Rather, God’s Word states: “We are
instructed [by the grace of God] to turn from godless
living and sinful pleasures. We should live in this evil
world with wisdom, righteousness, and devotion to
God, while we look forward with hope to that wonderful
day when the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus
Christ, will be revealed.”

As believers in Jesus, we’re to be people instructed
by God’s grace, not Google. Titus 2:12 teaches us that
God’s grace in Christ is the true basis of instruction and
motivation for the Christian life.

By God’s grace, Jesus took our punishment and died
for our sins. He died so that we could become the people
God wants us to become (v.14). The cross is a testimony
to the fact that God’s grace can change our hearts no
matter what we’ve done. It also reminds us that we’re
never good enough to not need it.

The grace of God calls us to turn from the wrong things in life to obedience
and the right stuff. It’s more than the basic definition of “unmerited favor.” For it’s
not only unmerited favor to have God’s life in us; we also experience unmerited
power to live God’s way for Him. —Poh Fang Chia

more›
Read 1 Corinthians
15:10 to see the effect
God’s grace had on the
apostle Paul’s life.

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Happy Hour

2011-05-13T14:49:00.000-05:00

Daily Devotional, May 13, 2011 "Happy Hour"

Happy Hour

read›
Proverbs 23:29-35
When will I wake up so I can look for another drink? (v.35).

Paul Sneddon took the corner too fast. Crashing
through a wooden barrier, he flipped his Ford
Laser. When he realized there was no way out of
the wreck, he popped open a brew and drank it down
while waiting to be rescued. Later, he admitted that at the
time of the accident, he “had been drinking for 4 days
straight.”

The driver’s inebriated state caused the crash, and yet
he declared happy hour at the scene of the accident! The
situation reminded me of this proverb: “A fool repeats his
foolishness” (Proverbs 26:11).

So, how do we avoid the foolish behavior associated
with alcohol? Solomon issued this warning: “Don’t gaze
at the wine, seeing how red it is, how it sparkles in the
cup, how smoothly it goes down” (23:31). Drinking
may be enticing, but “in the end [alcohol] bites like a
poisonous snake” (v.32).

Because of its deceptive nature, we can get into trouble
with booze before we realize what’s happening. One sip
usually leads to several, which can lead to drunkenness.
The Bible cautions us, “Don’t be drunk with wine,
because that will ruin your life” (Ephesians 5:18).
When we open the door to drunkenness, we risk letting
it become a lifestyle. At first, getting smashed is rare;
then it’s a once-in-a-while thing. Then it can become so
frequent that every happy hour ends with hugging the commode. It’s possible to
become like the carouser in Proverbs who falls asleep wondering, “When will I
wake up so I can look for another drink?” (23:35).

Happy hour, hangover, sober, gotta find a drink—God doesn’t want us to
live in the bondage of this cycle. He’s given us sufficient warning, but we’ve got
to do our part and keep our distance from alcohol’s devastating effect.
—Jennifer Benson Schuldt

more›
Read 2 Peter 2:19-22 to
see why Christians should
avoid getting tangled up
in sin that enslaves.

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Gaining Strength

2011-05-11T21:48:00.000-05:00

Daily Devotional, May 11, 2011 "Gaining Strength"

Gaining Strength

read›
2 Corinthians 12:1-10
My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness (v.9).

After 20 years in youth ministry, my husband has
weathered his fair share of injuries on the job.
Most recently, he was involved in a competitive
outdoor game when he twisted his foot. Playing through
the pain, he conceded to his injury only after winning
the contest. He limped to a nearby place to sit down and
carefully remove his sock, only to see his ankle quickly
swelling past the size of an orange. A trip to the hospital
revealed it wasn’t broken, but he soon realized it would
take time before his foot could bear weight once again.

Pain often serves as a reminder of our limitations. To
those of us who pride ourselves on our independence
and feel most comfortable being in control, we don’t
relish the pain when it reminds us we’re vulnerable.
Instead of admitting our need, we “play through the
pain,” if not to convince ourselves then to assure others
that we can handle whatever comes our way. No one
likes to feel weak.

The whole crux of the gospel, however, rests on
our desperate need and the insufficiency of our own
resources. Pride keeps us from admitting our needs, much
less our failures. But until we’re willing to deal with those
things, we cut ourselves off from the fullness of the power
of Christ in our lives.

Strength for the believer looks far different than
what the world professes. “[Jesus] gave up His divine
privileges . . . and was born as a human being” (Philippians 2:7) in the greatest
show of power the heavens have ever witnessed (2 Corinthians 13:4). We gain
strength when we see difficulties—and our weaknesses—as a means for His
power to be at work in us (12:9-10).

It’s the difference between limping and running (Isaiah 40:29-31).
—Regina Franklin

more›
Read Isaiah 35 to
discover why we can
experience joy even as
we see and acknowledge
our own inadequacies.

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A Symbol of Forgiveness with Sheila Walsh

2011-05-10T23:01:00.001-05:00

Daily Devotional, May 10, 2011 "A Symbol of Forgiveness - Sheila Walsh"

Episode 2 - A Symbol of Forgivenesswith Sheila Walsh

Watch Episode 2 Now. CLICK HERE.

Provision - For When You Don’t Have Enough

And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.

- Philippians 4:19

Haven’t you been there, that place of worry, fret, and fear when the provisions needed aren’t at hand and aren’t coming? Or maybe you’ve been in that place where there is a circus going on around you, with all kinds of things coming your way, just not what you really needed. You get lost in a pile of bills, feeling overwhelmed with everything that has to be taken care of and not enough resources to meet the needs. The demands of life can be overwhelming when you look at what you have and compare it to what you need. You can be left to wonder, Is God listening? Does He see? Will He fix things?

Where’s the hope of that promise in Philippians 4:19, “And my God will meet all your needs”? And how do you live in the assurance of that promise?

It sounds so easy, after all, when someone says, “Just believe in God’s promises.” Paul is writing this promise from house arrest in Rome to one of his favorite churches. The church in Philippi has sent a dear brother, Epaphroditus, to encourage Paul in his prison. Now Paul thanks them for their kindness and their monetary support in this time of need. His spirits have been lifted, and he responds with a sincere prayer for their blessing. This is a prayer from a love-filled heart that they be given what he holds dearest, the richest blessings found only in Christ.

Paul says in Philippians 4:18 that he is “amply supplied,” meaning “filled up” or “supplied to the point of overflowing.” This is what he is praying for them when he says “My God will meet all your needs.” There will be no lack in what is really needed. Note that Paul makes no mention of their desires. At the end of this statement he says “according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus” (v. 19). Some take this to mean reward in heaven, but it more likely means spiritual needs satisfied by the power that has been given to Jesus. “Riches” speaks of the abundance of Christ’s provision. “Glory” speaks of the fullness of His power. He is saying God is faithful and will not disappoint. His provision will be in keeping with the wealth of His mercy demonstrated in Jesus Christ. He takes care of His own.

The promise is that God knows our needs and has been proven to provide abundantly beyond what we can rightly expect. Our sign in earnest is the abundant grace of Christ’s gift—His life for us. How can we not trust in such a provision?

Read Mark 6; then answer the following questions:

1. Why did Jesus instruct His disciples not to pack supplies and provisions for their mission? Does this seem strange to you? How would you have responded in this situation?

2. When you take an honest assessment of your life today, what needs do you have? Do you fear God won’t provide in those areas?

3. Do you believe that when you rest in Jesus, truly anything is possible? What are the “impossible” things in your life today that you want God to make possible?

This Bible study is an excerpt from chapter 1 of The Shelter of God’s Promisesby Sheila Walsh.

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Bold, Faithful Friends

2011-05-09T10:32:00.001-05:00

Daily Devotional, May 9, 2011 "Bold, Faithful Friends"

Bold, Faithful Friends

read›
Mark 2:1-12
They couldn’t bring him to Jesus because of the
crowd, so they dug a hole through the roof above his head. Then
they lowered the man on his mat, right down in front of Jesus (v.4).

Jesus had returned to His base in Capernaum after a
preaching trip. When the locals heard that He was
back, they ran to where He was staying (probably
Peter’s house) and swarmed around it. So many people
crowded into the house that there was no way a paralyzed
man, brought to the door by his concerned friends,
could get in. But his friends would not be hindered! They
hatched a dangerous, unconventional plan.

They picked up their paralyzed friend, hauled him up
the side staircase to Peter’s roof, broke through the mud
seal, ripped up the straw thatching, and made a hole
large enough to lower the man through. They vandalized
Peter’s home! When Jesus saw their radical faith, He
gave them more than what they’d come for: He met the
man’s spiritual needs first and then healed him physically
(Mark 2:5,11-12).

Sometimes we simply can’t go any further in life or
deeper into faith on our own. Seasons come when we
need others to boldly carry us to Jesus.
“I remember when I wrote my book on prayer,” author
Richard Foster once told me during a radio interview.
“When I finished it, I didn’t want to pray. In fact, I didn’t
even like prayer!” He was burned out and spiritually
dry. Richard’s weekly prayer group soon came around
and he shared his predicament with them. He revealed
his prayerlessness to his four friends and waited for their
response. “We don’t think you should pray right now,” they told him, “so we will
become your prayer for you.” It wasn’t long before Richard was praying again
for himself.

Just like the paralytic man and like Richard Foster, we all need bold, faithful
friends. I thank God for those who carry me to Jesus and pray the prayer I can’t
pray myself. —Sheridan Voysey

more›
See Matthew 8:5-13,
Mark 5:21-43, and
Acts 9:36-42 for more
examples of people
whose faith affected the
lives of others.

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Divine Detours

2011-05-07T11:02:00.000-05:00

Daily Devotional, May 6, 2011 "Divine Detours"

Divine Detours

read›
Ephesians 3:1-13
God did not reveal
[His mysterious plan] to
previous generations, but
now by His Spirit He has
revealed it to His holy
apostles and prophets
(v.5).

Last summer, my boys and I took some memorable
bike rides. One path that runs alongside a local river
became the boys’ favorite. There are numerous spots
to stop, toss their helmets aside, and explore along the
riverbank. Their most celebrated discovery was a pool of
tadpoles. In contrast to my boys, I don’t like to stop while
riding, and I don’t search for tadpoles. I like to travel a
direct route there and back. For Wyatt and Seth, however,
biking is as much about the detours as the destination.

In the opening chapters of Ephesians, Paul penned
a breathless array of words and images, themes, and
ideas—rich theology, gushing and overflowing. However,
as chapter 3 begins, Paul slows down, pauses, and
writes down a prayer: “When I think of all this, I, Paul, a
prisoner of Christ Jesus for the benefit of you Gentiles . . .”
(v.1). And that three-dot ellipsis sends us on a journey.
Paul had barely finished a line of his prayer when
he headed in a different direction, a long rabbit trail.
You have to trace down 13 verses to find Paul resuming
his first-sentence thoughts. Most translators, aware of
this disjointed shift, mark it with a dash or an ellipsis—
attempts to communicate that Paul had taken a detour.

It’s interesting that as Paul veered onto this literary side
road, he pointed to God’s penchant for detours. Paul
recounted how God had “revealed His mysterious plan”
during his blinding encounter with God on the Damascus
road. This ordained diversion with Jesus had not been on
Paul’s agenda (v.3). Paul then detailed another seeming
detour—God’s merging of Jews and Gentiles had been
something neither people group had expected (v.6). A monumental detour.

Grace often comes unexpectedly. Detours, surrendered to God, are not
inconveniences—they’re gifts. —Winn Collier

more›
Look over Ephesians
3:1-13 again. Notice
how the characters
were surprised by God’s
actions. How were the
Gentiles surprised? The
Jews? Paul? What does
the idea of “mystery” in
the passage say about
God’s detours?

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The Church

2011-05-05T18:38:00.001-05:00

Daily Devotional, May 5, 2011 "Pillar of Truth"

Pillar of Truth

read›
1 Timothy 3:14–4:5
This is the church of the
living God, which is the
pillar and foundation of
the truth (v.15).

My friend doesn’t like the idea of attending church.
She says, “People leave their brains at the
church doors.”

A contemporary poet describes the church this way:
“Outwardly splendid as of old; inwardly sparkless, void
and cold. Her force and fire all spent and gone, like the
dead moon she still shines on.”

For some people, the church is simply a place for
those who are religious. But the apostle Paul sees the
church through a different lens. He sees the church as a
significant body. It’s the “household of God,” “the church
of the living God,” and “the pillar and foundation of the
truth” (1 Timothy 3:15). The church isn’t a building, or a
meeting held in a building. The church is people—those
who’ve been born by the Spirit of God and have entered
into a new relationship with God as their Father and
each other as siblings. It’s the “household of God.”

In addition, the church belongs to the living God.
When believers gather, they experience the presence
of a God who speaks His words to them, hears their
prayers, and responds to their worship.

Unlike what some people believe, the church isn’t
an outdated remnant of the past with no relevance for
today’s society. There’s a reason for its existence. It’s the
“pillar and foundation of the truth”—created in the world
to make a difference, to introduce truth into a world
saturated with error.

May God help us, the church, to learn again who we are and what we can
do through Him. For “Christ loved the church. He gave up His life for her to
make her holy and clean, washed by the cleansing of God’s Word” (Ephesians
5:25-26). The church is a thing of great worth and value in God’s sight.
—Poh Fang Chia

more›
Read Colossians 1:18
and 1 Peter 2:7-9 for
more insights into the
true purpose and value
of the church.

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Amplified

2011-05-04T17:21:00.000-05:00

Daily Devotional, May 4, 2011 "Amplified"

Amplified

read›
Matthew 7:13-20
A good tree produces good fruit, and a bad
tree produces bad fruit (v.17).

Despite the recent economic meltdown, most people would agree that free markets have improved
the lives of billions of people. Many people today are living longer and wealthier than anyone ever has, in
large part because free markets incentivize us to create products that other people want to buy. Entrepreneurs
who knew that they would profit from their efforts invented vaccines, computers, microwaves, and indoor
plumbing.

However, free markets are not an unqualified good. They’re simply the most efficient way to provide
consumers what they want. What markets can’t do is tell us what we should want. If consumers want relief from
the heat of summer, markets will connect them with the sellers of air conditioners. If consumers want to get rich
quick through games of chance, markets will supply them with casinos.

In short, markets amplify whatever we are. If you want to know who you are, look at what you buy—it’s yourself
revealed. What is on your iPod, credit card statement, or television schedule? The fruit you find there indicates
what kind of tree you are (Matthew 7:17-18,20).

Markets also amplify by enlarging our effect on others. A medieval materialist would horde his gold, and that
would be the end of it. But now, through the amplifying power of markets, a materialist who buys a behemoth
home supports an entire industry that builds McMansions, and an immoral person who clicks on pornography encourages producers to make more of it.

Every purchase is a vote for the product we buy. If we choose coarse, banal, or risqué entertainment, our culture will flood the market with more. No man is an island. That has never been truer than now. And God will some day judge the choices we make today (v.19; Hebrews 6:8). —Mike Wittmer

more›
Read Luke 12:13-21 to see how our choices
amplify ourselves, and read Romans 14:13–
15:4 to see how our choices may help or hurt
others.

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Sheila Walsh’s book - The Shelter of God’s Promises

2011-05-03T10:41:00.001-05:00

Daily Devotional, May 3, 2011 "A Symbol of Forgiveness - Promises, Promises"

A Symbol of Forgivenesswith Sheila Walsh

Watch Episode 1 Now. CLICK HERE.

Sheila Walsh taped a webisode series with Cindy Winters and Emmy winning Life Focus Productions titled “A Symbol of Forgiveness” where the two of them talk through Cindy’s remarkable story. It’s a four-part series; one part will be available each week beginning May 3, 2011 and continuing on May 10, 17, and 24.

Watch Episode 1 Now. CLICK HERE.

Promises, Promises

For no matter how many promises God has made, they are “Yes” in Christ. And so through him the “Amen” is spoken by us to the glory of God.

—2 Corinthians 1:20

When you think of promises, you don’t want to think of what’s broken, of brokenness. It’s human nature to want a sure thing and for someone to back up the certainties, guaranteed, no questions asked. But it’s just like God to think of the unthinkable, to show us that the impossible is possible, that there is one kind of brokenness that holds everything together and in which promises are kept.

We want to believe that God sees everything, our comings and our goings, our slumber and our days, as Psalm 121 says. And we desperately need to know and feel that His promises hold true in the darkest of nights. We believe that God loves us, but bad things happen anyway. There are aftereffects and consequences, damage and wounds—pain that runs so deep that its presence, a reminder of the storms, invades our lives over and over. The failures, disappointments, and regrets keep us questioning: Do God’s promises hold fast when everything else is falling apart? What exactly does He promise us? Can we trust Him to keep His promises?

Whenever I am faced with a difficult passage in my life or that of a friend, I remind myself again that we are travelers in this world, headed back to our true home with God. But we come upon detours in our journey. Each detour takes us from the garden to a cross on a hill, where Christ Himself paid the ultimate sacrifice so that we will be free. Even as Christ was placed in a grave carved into a cleft of rock, He went there as a fulfillment of God’s promise to you and to me that death would be swallowed up in victory, for no grave could hold Him.

We are each invited from the worst storms of our lives to find our safe hiding place in God. Whatever God says, we can stake our lives on, and Christ came to show us who our Father is. In Christ all the promises of God are fulfilled, for no matter how many promises God has made, they are “yes” in Him (2 Corinthians 1:20).

Normally we doubt whether a promise maker will be a promise keeper when everything is completed. But the witness of the substitutionary atonement of Jesus is that God’s most difficult promise has been kept. The Father is truly the only Promise Maker who is in earnest a Promise Keeper. A promise from God is a promise kept.

Read 2 Corinthians 1:20 and Exodus 33; then answer the following questions:

1. How do you see that God’s promises have been fulfilled in the person of Christ?

2. We all have different stories to tell, and many of us will approach the idea of God’s promises from unique perspectives. So, what comes to mind when you think of the promises of God?

3. How do you bring your focus back to the promises of God when life has given you difficult detours, such as the loss of a family member, an illness, or other periods of sadness?

This Bible study is an excerpt from chapter 1 of The Shelter of God’s Promisesby Sheila Walsh.

Sheila Walsh’s new book, The Shelter of God’s Promises, available now. CLICK HERE.

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Jonathan's Example

2011-05-02T18:41:00.001-05:00

Daily Devotional, May 2, 2011 "Jonathan's Example"

Jonathan's Example

read›
1 Samuel 20
Jonathan loved David as
he loved himself (v.17).

When Matt Damon hit it big in Hollywood, he
bought two Jeep Grand Cherokees—one
for him, and one for his best buddy, Ben
Affleck. In an interview with People magazine, he said,
“That was our dream car. We flipped a coin on the
color. We both wanted hunter green and I won; he got
black.” I had to smile when I read that story. Friends
dream together. Friends celebrate together. Friends stick
together.

When David and Jonathan first met, “there was an
immediate bond between them” (1 Samuel 18:1). They
remained close even though Jonathan’s father, King Saul,
wanted to kill David. Unfortunately, Jonathan had to
choose between loyalty to his father and his best friend.
He picked David, exclaiming, “Tell me what I can do to
help you!” (20:4). Jonathan then helped David escape
from Saul. A genuine friend is a loyal friend.

A true ally will also set aside his or her interests
to support you—competition won’t corrode your
relationship. Jonathan wanted David to be the king of
Israel, even though, as his father so crudely pointed out
(v.30), Jonathan should have been the next ruler.
Despite the extreme pressure on their friendship,
Jonathan trekked out to visit his pal in the hill country of
Ziph, where David was hiding from Saul. During their
wilderness outing, Jonathan “encouraged [David] to stay strong in his faith in
God” (1 Samuel 23:16). True friends make time to spiritually spur each other on.

Reading about David and Jonathan made me wonder, Am I a good friend?
Jonathan’s unwavering loyalty, humility, and commitment to David inspired me
to look for more ways to serve my friends. While no relationship is perfect,
friendship works best when we follow Jonathan’s example: “Jonathan loved
David as he loved himself” (20:17). —Jennifer Benson Schudlt

more›
Read Job 2:11-14 to see
how friends can support
each other during difficult
times. Read John 15:13-
17 to learn about Jesus’
friendship with believers.

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Friend of Sinners

2011-04-29T16:46:00.001-05:00

Daily Devotional, April 29, 2011 "Friend of Sinners"

Friend of Sinners

read›
Matthew 5:20-48
The Son of Man, on the other hand, feasts and
drinks, and you say, “He’s a glutton and a
drunkard, and a friend of tax collectors and other
sinners!” (Luke 7:34).

Jesus’ teachings can seem to be paradoxical.

Exhibit A: He requires a standard of living that’s
even more rigorous than the Old Testament. Jewish
law condemned adultery (Ex. 20:14); Jesus said that
even looking at someone lustfully was wrong (Matt. 5:27-
28). Jewish law allowed for divorce (Deut. 24:1); Jesus
condemned it except for marital infidelity (Matt. 5:32).
Many Jewish leaders misread the Law and felt it allowed
for retaliation (Exodus 21:23-25); Jesus taught otherwise
(Matt. 5:38-42). Murder was always condemned (Ex.
20:13), but Jesus saw anger and hate as equally bad
(Matt. 5:22). Jesus definitely calls us to high moral
standards of eternal significance (v.20).

Exhibit B: But Jesus also earned a rather odd reputation
as the “friend of . . . sinners” (Luke 7:34). He dealt
gently with the divorced and the sexually loose (John
4:17-18, 8:10-11). He had dinner with thieving tax
collectors (Luke 19:5-8) and welcomed people with bad
reputations (7:37-39). Simon the zealot, one of Jesus’
own disciples, was a political revolutionary, and Peter
was even capable of violence (6:15; John 18:10). Jesus
kept company with the very people least likely to live up
to His moral standards. And that’s good news.

If you’re a murderer, adulterer, thief, or drunkard; if
you’ve lusted, lied, or been lax in keeping confidences; if
you’re greedy, angry, jealous, or selfish, Jesus is prepared
to accept you. He’s a friend of sinners. The only people Jesus can’t accept are the
arrogantly self-righteous—those who deny their need for change and forgiveness;
those lost in the deceptive belief that they are superior to all (Matt. 9:12).

Jesus was no doe-eyed softy, relaxing morals in some free-love way. His ethics
are hard, His standards high. But He’s also a friend of sinners, including you
and me. —Sheridan Voysey

more›
Read the story of
Zacchaeus in Luke 19.
Which came first—Jesus
seeking out this tax
collector or Zacchaeus
seeking forgiveness for
his sins?

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Searching

2011-04-28T11:07:00.001-05:00

Daily Devotional - April 28, 2011 "Searching"

Searching

read›
Lamentations 3:22-32
The Lord is good to those who depend on Him,
to those who search for Him (v.25).

Recently, archaeologist Eilat Mazar found
fortifications that were built in Jerusalem some
3,000 years ago. She believes that they were
constructed by Solomon, as described in the Old
Testament. Her unearthed evidence strongly rebuts what
secular scholars believe: “that David’s [and Solomon’s]
monarchy was largely mythical and that there was
no strong government to speak of in that era.” Eilat’s
passionate digging and searching made for one
amazing find!

In Lamentations 3, the author (believed to be the
prophet Jeremiah) wrote of the importance of searching
after something more important than ancient ruins. He
wrote, “The Lord is good to . . . those who search for
Him” (v.25). What’s so striking about this verse—and all
of chapter 3—is that it’s an oasis of hope within a book
of the Bible known for its misery and lament. Why did
the prophet have hope? Because of God’s “faithful love”
and the fact that “His mercies never cease” (v.22).

Keep in mind that Jeremiah had witnessed the heartwrenching
destruction of the city of Jerusalem. God’s
people had been defeated, and many of them had been
exiled to Babylon. Death and devastation followed them.
Even in that dark moment, Jeremiah chose to earnestly
seek God and His compassionate heart (v.32). He wrote,
“The Lord is my inheritance; therefore, I will hope in Him!” (v.24). Hope. He still
had it, even though everything else was gone—painfully torn from him and his
people. Jeremiah chose to wait in silence before His faithful God (vv.23,28). The
prophet and his people had been disciplined by the Lord for their rebellion against
Him, but Jeremiah knew they wouldn’t be “abandoned by [Him] forever” (v.31).
If you’re lacking hope today, search for God. His love and compassion will
never fail you. —Tom Felten

more›
Read Deuteronomy
28:45 to learn why
God allowed His people
to be defeated by the
Babylonians. Verses 36
and 37 predicted exactly
what took place later.

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Wanted

2011-04-27T13:30:00.001-05:00

Daily Devotional, April 27, 2011 "Wanted"

Wanted

read›
Ephesians 1:1-14
Even before He made the world, God loved us and
chose us in Christ (v.4).

Two weeks ago, our friends traveled to Ethiopia to
meet and bring home their newly adopted daughter.
For a couple of years, our friends have prayed for
little Lilia, saved thousands of dollars to pay the adoption
expenses, and then waited months and months until they
could welcome her into their life. But before they knew
who would be their daughter and before they knew her
name or face, they were already waiting for her. They
wanted her.

In his Ephesians letter, the apostle Paul offers a long list
of the myriad ways God has waited for us and desired
us. In the original Greek, these verses (1:3-14) are one
long, gushing sentence (more than 200 words). It’s as if
Paul gets carried away with excitement and his words
run off the page as he attempts to describe the extent of
God’s love for us. Paul tells us that:

• God chose us “before He made the world” (v.4).
For those of us who have always felt left out and never
included, we can relish in the fact that we’ve been
chosen. And we were chosen long before we took our
first breath.

• God “decided in advance to adopt us” (v.5). For
those of us who live with the constant fear that we will
somehow bungle or mismanage God’s kindness, we can
rest in God’s firm decision to love us. If we want Jesus,
we will find He has already (and for a very long time) wanted us.

• God “has showered His kindness on us” (v.8). For those of us who have
never felt another’s extravagant, I’m-crazy-about-you love, we can rejoice in the
reality that God delights in us.

If you have never felt that you were truly wanted, know this: God wants you . . .
more than you can imagine. —Winn Collier

more›
Read again through these
verses (vv.1-14), marking
each word that expresses
how God feels about
you or the desires God
has for you. What does
this tell you about God’s
character and heart?

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Orderly Arrangement

2011-04-26T10:47:00.001-05:00

Daily Devotional, April 26, 2011 "Orderly Arrangement"

Orderly Arrangement

read›
Colossians 3:18-21
Wives, submit to your husbands, as is fitting for
those who belong to the Lord (v.18).

A group of children were asked, “How can a wife
submit to her husband?” An 8-year-old named
Mary said, “My mom could mow the yard,
feed the dogs, work in the garden, and help us with our
homework instead of making my dad do it. She could also
make food for special occasions, go grocery shopping,
take us to doctors’ appointments, pick out our clothes
every morning, and fix our breakfast, lunch, and supper.”
Mary’s definition of submission makes for marital chaos
and a perpetuation of misinformation regarding submission.
So, what did Paul have in mind when he penned those wellknown
words at the end of Colossians 3?

The command for wives to submit to their husbands was
actually one of the evidences of the Colossians putting on
the new self. So when Paul gave this command for wives
to submit to their husbands (v.18), he was not saying that
wives were inferior, that husbands could force submission,
that all women must submit to all men, that wives aren’t
intelligent and don’t have good ideas, or that wives should
follow their husbands into sin.

The word submit meant to “line up under.” Paul was
saying that each wife, in recognition of God’s orderly
arrangement established at the creation of the first human
beings (Genesis 2:7,18,21-23), should line up under the
headship of her husband. This brings honor to Jesus and
clearly reflects His rule in her life.

As followers of Jesus, we shouldn’t react negatively to the word submission
based on bad experiences and misuse. Instead, reflect on its true biblical
meaning. Husbands and wives ought to confer on decisions and situations
they face and strive for unity in their decisions—all with the husband lovingly
bearing the final weight of responsibility (Colossians 3:18-19). That’s God’s
orderly arrangement. —Marvin Williams

more›
Read Ephesians 5:25-
29 to gain a greater
understanding into the
husband’s responsibility
to his wife.

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Too Big To Fail

2011-04-25T14:17:00.001-05:00

Daily Devotional, April 25, 2011 "too big to fail"

Too Big To Fail

read›
2 Samuel 12:1-14
Then Nathan said to David, “You are that man!” (v.7).

Jerry terHorst resigned as US Press Secretary when
his friend President Gerald Ford pardoned disgraced
former President Richard Nixon. He told Ford that
he didn’t know how he could “credibly defend” the
President’s decision to pardon Nixon when common
citizens were being punished for conscientiously refusing
to serve in the Vietnam War. For his part, President Ford
did not want to pardon his predecessor, but he thought
it was necessary for America to put the “long national
nightmare behind” and move on.

Isn’t that how it goes? The people on top get away
with more than those at the bottom of the food chain.
Entry-level staffers are imprisoned for their crimes, but
prosecuting a President would be too difficult for a nation
to endure. Workers lose their jobs and go bankrupt while
large banks are bailed out because their failure would
devastate the world’s economy.

We rage at the politics of such injustice, and yet we
may do it too. We cover for a pastor to preserve the
reputation of our church or dismiss the misconduct of our
candidate in order to win the election. The bigger you
are, the less likely you are to fail.

Not in God’s world. James said that leaders in the
church “will be judged more strictly” (James 3:1) and
Paul wrote that all leaders will be held accountable
(1 Corinthians 4:2-5). Jesus reproached the religious
elite for turning their converts “into twice the child of hell you yourselves are!”
(Matthew 23:15). Rather than be intimidated into silent consent, let’s follow the
example of Nathan who spoke truth to King David. He didn’t rationalize David’s
adultery and murder, but boldly declared “You are that man!”

The bigger you are, the harder you will fall. Let’s lead others in integrity and
honesty that honors God. —Mike Wittmer

more›
Read Matthew 23:1-39
to see how Jesus spoke
truth to the powerful.
What can you learn from
His example?

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The Hard Way

2011-04-22T19:26:00.000-05:00

Daily Devotional, April 22, 2011 Good Friday

The Hard Way

read›
Luke 22:54-62
Keep watch and pray, so that you will not give
in to temptation. For the spirit is willing,
but the body is weak! (Matthew 26:41).

In this devo, I will write about a subject of which
I must say—with great confidence—is an area
of expertise. Yes, I will be boasting here. For I’ve
been well-trained and have lots of experience in it. My
subject? Failure. No one wants to experience it, but you
and I have both come to know it up close and personal.
The apostle Peter knew what it felt like to fail Jesus.

Hours before Peter caved, Jesus warned the disciple
that he would deny Him (Luke 22:34). This was more
than simply a prophetic possibility. It was a done deal.
Later, Jesus took His disciples out to the Garden of
Gethsemane to pray and to prepare for “the time when
the power of darkness [would reign]” (v.53; Matthew
26:36-45). Prayer strengthened Jesus as He surrendered
to God’s will (Luke 22:41-43; Mark 14:36). It could
have also provided Peter with God’s peace and power,
but he slept instead of praying (v.37).

Peter had underestimated the severity of his trial. His
self-sufficiency, self-confidence, and self-dependence
ultimately led to self-deception, which fueled his pride
(see Isaiah 2:22; Psalm 62:9). Pride was the cause of
Peter’s failure (Proverbs 16:18). He boasted too much
and prayed too little. Rejecting Jesus’ warning, Peter
didn’t seek God’s power, provision, and protection
through prayer (Luke 22:32). In the end, the impulsive
disciple denied Jesus three times.

When the rooster crowed, Peter was reminded of the
sovereignty of Jesus and the infallibility of His Word (v.61). Peter’s word was
proved fallible, but God’s Word is infallible.

The crowing of the rooster signaled the dawn of a new day. It also ushered in
a new beginning for Peter as he wept bitterly over his failure and repented of it
(v.62). What failure against Jesus will you confess to Him today? —K.T. Sim

more›
Years later, Peter wrote
down some wise
instruction that reflects
what he learned the
hard way (see 1 Peter
5:5-9). How do his
words help you?

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Adrenaline For The Soul

2011-04-21T12:27:00.001-05:00

Daily Devotional, April 21, 2011 "Adrenaline For The Soul"

Adrenaline For The Soul

read›
Philippians 2:5-11
At the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth
and under the earth, and every tongue confess that
Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the
Father (vv.10-11).

Using contemporary language, while attempting to
capture the depth and vitality of the original words
that moved and inspired early believers in Jesus,
Eugene Peterson translated Hebrews 12:2-3 this way:
Keep your eyes on Jesus, who both began and finished
this race we’re in. Study how He did it. Because He never
lost sight of where He was headed—that exhilarating
finish in and with God—He could put up with anything
along the way: Cross, shame, whatever. And now He’s
there, in the place of honor, right alongside God. When
you find yourselves flagging in your faith, go over that
story again, item by item, that long litany of hostility He
plowed through. That will shoot adrenaline into your souls!
(The Message).

Over the years, I’ve grown to more deeply appreciate
the importance of studying how Jesus boldly lived out His
convictions (Philippians 2:6-8). I’m often instructed and
deeply moved by His surprising acts of compassion, by
His strength to confront injustice, and by His willingness
to suffer for a greater good.

I can now better see that my favorite class in Bible
college—“The Life of Christ”—wasn’t so much about
the teacher as it was the topic. While my teacher was
excellent (thank you, Mike Sullivan!), the subject was
even better! Simply put, Jesus is the most captivating
figure to ever walk the face of the earth.

Going over Jesus’ life is more than just an academic or intellectual exercise. This
is not about getting pumped full of information so you can pass an exam or sound
“spiritual.” It’s about becoming personally acquainted, captured, and loved by the
One whose life, death, and resurrection changed everything (vv.9-11).
Celebrate the life of Jesus “detail by detail.” Soak it in. His reality will “shoot
adrenaline” into your heart. —Jeff Olson

more›
Read Galatians 2:20 to
better understand what
the depth of our identity
with Jesus should be.

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Counterfeit Faith

2011-04-20T09:15:00.001-05:00

Daily Devotional, April 20, 2011 "Counterfeit Faith"

Counterfeit Faith

read›
2 Timothy 3:5-17
These teachers oppose the truth. . . . They have
depraved minds and a counterfeit faith (v.8).

After waiting in line at a local store, it was finally my
turn to pay. The clerk took my money, held the bill
up to the light and then disappeared to confer
with her manager. When she returned, she explained that
the store had recently received several counterfeit bills.

Then she looked at me and added, “You don’t look like
a counterfeiter.” She was right; I wasn’t passing funny
money. But, I wondered what would make me look like a
counterfeiter—shifty eyes, sweaty palms, ink-stained fingers?
During Paul’s day, some spiritual con men were
spreading a “counterfeit faith” (2 Timothy 3:8). Paul
described these guys in detail so that his protégé,
Timothy, could tell the true teachers from the phonies.

These faux Christian leaders were weaseling their way
into the homes of vulnerable people. In some cases, they
targeted women burdened with sin and “controlled by
various desires” (v.6). The false teachers preyed on people
who were least able to defend themselves—the kind of
people who were “forever following new teachings, but
. . . never able to understand the truth” (v.7).

With followers who lacked spiritual discernment, the
bad guys were free to “oppose the truth” at will (v.8). In
fact, Paul compared them to the ancient sorcerers, Jannes
and Jambres, the magicians who tried to duplicate Moses’
miracles (Exodus 7:11). And, just like that devilish duo, Paul
promised that someday everyone would recognize the false
teachers as fools (2 Timothy 3:9).
Until that day, we have to look out for spiritual swindlers who infiltrate our
homes through television, books, and the Web. The best defense against them is
to know the truth. We need to mimic the Bereans, who “searched the Scriptures
day after day” (Acts 17:11), refusing to accept the false teaching of a counterfeit
faith. —Jennifer Benson Schuldt

more›
Read 2 Peter 2:12-19 to
learn why following false
teachers can’t provide
the way to freedom from
sin. Read Jude 10-16
for a description of false
teachers.

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Prepare For Action

2011-04-19T13:18:00.001-05:00

Daily Devotional, April 19, 2011 "Prepare For Action"

Prepare For Action

read›
1 John 3:11-24
Let us show the truth by
our actions (v.18).

As a chaplain for athletes competing in the 1998
Nagano Winter Games, one night I stayed
out particularly late serving at the figure skating
venue. Cold and exhausted, I finally headed back to my
room at 1:00 a.m. On the way, I was shocked when
several members of the USA Men’s Hockey Team walked
by—boasting about the partying they were about to
engage in.

Their “good times” in Nagano were short-lived,
however. For just one day later, the team that was a
medal favorite lost in an early round and ultimately
finished an unthinkable sixth overall.
God’s Word teaches that “just as you can identify
a tree by its fruit, so you can identify people by their
actions” (Matthew 7:20). For the team mentioned above,
the actions of some partying hockey players brought
criticism upon themselves, their teammates, and their
country. “Their lasting legacy of the Nagano Olympics,”
wrote freelance hockey journalist Joe Pelletier, “was a
trashed hotel room courtesy of a few unnamed players.”
To achieve success, an athlete’s skills must be backed
by a disciplined lifestyle. Similarly, to bring glory to
Jesus, a believer’s faith and actions should work together.

It is actions that make “faith complete” (James 2:22).
“Our actions,” wrote the apostle John, “will show that
we belong to the truth, so we will be confident when
we stand before God” (1 John 3:19). This idea was lived out by Rahab the
prostitute, who was “shown to be right with God when she hid those messengers
and sent them safely away by a different road” (James 2:25).

When our actions reflect our faith in Christ, we’re more likely to draw people
to God than by words alone (James 2:14). Let’s truly display our faith by the
things we do and say (1 John 3:18). —Roxanne Robbins

more›
Read Psalm 119:4-6
to see what our actions
should “consistently
reflect.”
next›

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Pray For Me - Make My Life A Prayer

2011-04-18T12:39:00.001-05:00

Daily Devotional, April 18, 2011 "Pray For Me"

Pray For Me

Make my life a prayer to You,
I wanna do what You want me to,
No empty words and no white lies,
No token prayers, no compromise.

read›
Ephesians 6:10-19
Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every
occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your
prayers for all believers everywhere (v.18).

I love those lyrics from Christian singer/songwriter
Keith Green who died almost 3 decades ago. His
passionate heart for God is reflected in every word.
In Ephesians 6, the apostle Paul described how we
can make our lives a prayer to God by having an active
prayer life. He wrote, “Pray in the Spirit at all times and
on every occasion” (v.18).

It’s not coincidental that Paul penned those words after
having addressed the fact that we’re in a spiritual battle,
not “fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies” (v.12). His
famous metaphor of us putting on spiritual armor is clear
and instructive (v.13). For without truth, righteousness,
peace that comes from the good news, faith, salvation,
and God’s Word, we will wilt before our unseen enemies.

But what’s the one thing the apostle tells us to do
every moment as we battle? Pray. To do what God wants
us to do, to live without compromise, to withstand “the
fiery arrows of the devil” (v.16), requires continuous
communication with our Father in heaven. We should
“never stop praying” (1 Th. 5:17).

When things go wrong, sometimes we stop praying the right way. As Keith
wrote, either our prayers are “token,” or we’ve simply stopped communicating with
God altogether. Instead of being “persistent in [our] prayers” (Ephesians 6:18),
we’ve shown our lack of faith and loss of love for God by not talking with Him.
It’s time to make your life a prayer to God. Follow Paul’s example. He told the
Ephesians, “Pray for me” (v.19). By doing so, he acknowledged the amazing
power that comes from God as we pray to Him “at all times.” —Tom Felten

more›
Read 1 Corinthians
14:15 and reflect on why
it’s so important to pray
“in the spirit,” not just in
our minds.

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Forever Young

2011-04-16T22:04:00.000-05:00

Daily Devotional, April 15, 2011 "Forever Young"

Forever Young

read›
Hebrews 5:11–6:3
So let us stop going over the basic teachings about
Christ again and again. Let us go on instead and
become mature in our understanding (6:1).

Brooke Greenberg likes to giggle and crawl around
just like any other toddler. She’s 76 cm (30 inches)
tall and weighs about 7 kg (16 pounds), but
Brooke was born in 1993. At 18 years old, she’s
still trapped in the body of a 1-year-old due to a rare
condition called Syndrome X. A doctor observed, “Her
cellular age does not match her actual age.”

When the author of Hebrews penned his epistle, he
addressed the spiritual immaturity of his audience. His
concern was that they were acting like spiritual babies
who needed basic instruction instead of more advanced
teaching (5:13). The writer wanted to give them real
spiritual meat, but they hadn’t developed beyond the
intake of spiritual milk. Though they’d been believers
long enough to be teaching others (v.12), they hadn’t
been growing in their knowledge of the Word of God.
This stifling inertia had left them “spiritually dull” (v.11).

They lacked maturity to discern the basic difference
between right and wrong (v.14). In fact, they were
clueless about doing the right things (v.13).
So the author challenged them to move on to maturity
and the deeper truths of the faith (6:1-3). But just prior to
his appeal, he gave them the secret to maturity: Spiritual
maturity comes from the constant application of God’s
Word into the situations of life (5:14). It’s not something
that just develops automatically over time.

Recently, I was reminded that God is more concerned about the way we do
the tasks He’s entrusted to us than in our ability to simply get them done. This is
because He wants us to become like Jesus. But many of us are more concerned
about accomplishing our to-do list than in Christ being formed in us.
Let’s seek to become mature in Jesus as we passionately feed on His Word
and live out its wisdom. —Poh Fang Chia

more›
Read Luke 8:12-14 to see
the things that can stifle
our maturation in Christ.

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More Than Loaves

2011-04-14T10:58:00.000-05:00

Daily Devotional, April 14, 2011 "More Than Loaves"

More Than Loaves

read›
John 6:25-59
Jesus replied, “I tell you the truth, you want to
be with Me because I fed you, not because
you understood the miraculous signs” (v.26).

Isaac Penington, an early defender and promoter of the
Quaker movement (founded in 17th-century England),
said, “Thus has the Lord been teaching me to live
upon Himself, not from anything received from Him but
upon the Life itself.” The crowd in John 6 wanted to live
off Jesus, not because their hearts were loyal to Him,
but because their hearts were loyal to what they thought
He could provide for them—food and deliverance from
Roman oppression.

The provision of the loaves of bread (John 6:8-13) was,
in their minds, a confirmation of this. So Jesus withdrew,
showing His rejection of their perception of the kind of
Messiah they desired (vv.14-15).

The next day the crowd looked for Him and found Him,
suggesting a successful quest (vv.22,25). Again, they
had followed Him because of what they thought He could
provide for them. But Jesus turned the tables on them and
identified Himself as the Bread of Life (v.35). He—rather
than the law or anything else—was the source of eternal
life (vv.33,48,51,58). Only those who believed in Jesus
and internalized His words, ethics, pattern of thinking,
and truth would find true fulfillment in life. This was so
radically different from what the people had in mind that
some of them stopped following Him (vv.60-66).

In our consumer-driven world, it’s easy to follow Jesus
just for “the loaves.” But He alone can satisfy our deepest
hunger for Himself. He will satisfy us when we stay connected to Him (see John
15) through reading and living out His words; when we stay connected to His
body of believers, and when we serve others as He did.

Let’s follow Jesus, not simply because He can provide the loaves, but because
He alone is God and—as we trust in Him—He provides all we need for life
today and for all eternity. —Marvin Williams

more›
Read John 4 to see how
the Samaritan woman’s
perception of Jesus
changed during their
conversation.

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Angels

2011-04-14T10:48:00.001-05:00

Daily Devotional, April 13, 2011

Angels

read›
Genesis 18:1-15
“My lord, . . . stop here for a while. Rest in the
shade of this tree while water is brought to wash
your feet. . . . Let me prepare some food to
refresh you before you continue on your
journey” (vv.3-5).

I was leaving the Guangzhou train station with
my ticket when I noticed a distraught Westerner
bewildered by the long and jagged lines forming
around her. I realized that she must be new to China
because she apparently didn’t know that train stations
often have ticket offices reserved especially for
foreigners. I told her to follow me and I led her to a
special room where she easily bought a ticket. Along
the way, I learned that she was a Christian. She was so
grateful for my help that she asked if I was an angel!
I laughed and said that I was only a human with a
bit more experience in China, but she may have had
a point. Hebrews 13:2 says, “Don’t forget to show
hospitality to strangers, for some who have done this
have entertained angels without realizing it!” While this
is true, as Gideon and Manoah discovered in Judges
6 and 13, it’s also true that the person who extends
hospitality is himself a kind of angel.

The term angel means “messenger,” and it’s not a
stretch to think that God sent me to the Guangzhou train
station at that time to help His child who was in distress.
Scripture repeatedly commands us to be on the lookout
for others. Paul writes, “When God’s people are in need,
be ready to help them. Always be eager to practice
hospitality” (Romans 12:13). Peter adds, “Cheerfully
share your home with those who need a meal or a place to stay” (1 Peter 4:9).
And Jesus explained that when we feed and clothe the poor, we are feeding and
clothing Him (Matthew 25:37-40).

In light of God’s emphasis on hospitality, I’m glad that I was mistaken for an
angel. But I’m sad that it’s happened only once. —Mike Wittmer

more›
Read 3 John 5-11 to
discover the importance
of hospitality in the early
church. Also see 2 Kings
4:10 to catch a view of it
in the Old Testament.

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Covered

2011-04-11T11:02:00.001-05:00

Daily Devotional, April 11, 2011

Covered

read›
Numbers 13:25–14:4
Then the whole community began
weeping aloud, and they cried all night (14:1).

Springtime in Georgia rarely arrives without fanfare.
While many anticipate the brilliant pink and white
azaleas, others stock up on antihistamines and
await the onset of the sneezing season. This past spring,
the pollen was especially intense. One morning, my
husband and I were amazed to see an ominous cloud of
pollen visibly hanging in the air. Our noses and throats
bore witness to nature’s invasiveness.

Numbers 13 records the story of the 12 spies appointed
to check out the Promised Land. You might recognize
the names of Joshua and Caleb, but the other 10
also impacted an entire generation of God’s people.
Their names aren’t memorable, and their stance was
regrettable: God’s promises weren’t possible (vv.28-29,
31-33). Like a fine dusting of pollen, their discouragement
covered the people, and their words of fear choked out
faith in the greatness of God. Weeping, the people cried
out to return to Egypt where bondage felt safer (14:1-3).

Discouragement is a sneaky enemy because it leads to
a slow bleed, a gradual erosion. As the battles become
difficult and the results delayed, discouragement settles
in, layer upon layer, until we’re ready to give up. Forty
years after the 10 spies brought their discouraging
message, Moses reminded Joshua—who was about to
lead the people into the Promised Land—to “be strong
and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For
the Lord your God is with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9).

We have the choice to become covered with disbelief or faith. Joshua trusted
God’s promises so much that he voiced them to others (Joshua 1:6,9,10:25)
and, consequently, led an entire nation into God’s freedom. It begs the question:
What are our lives reflecting to others—discouragement or deep trust in God?
—Regina Franklin

more›
Read Proverbs 4:23,
13:12, and 15:13 to
learn more about the role
of the heart in dealing
with discouragement.

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The Arms of Love

2011-04-08T15:07:00.001-05:00

Daily Devotional, April 08, 2011

The Arms of Love

read›
Psalm 81:8-16
I would feed you with the finest wheat. I would
satisfy you with wild honey from the rock
(v.16).

Donna Simpson weighs 600 pounds, but she’s
working on gaining another 400. Intending
to become the heaviest woman alive, Donna
commenced a public campaign to market her intentions.
She intends to eat healthy, but she plans to eat a lot. In
her words, she eats “massive quantities of healthy food,”
including more than 70 pieces of sushi and 20 chicken
wraps in single meals. While Donna’s appetite captures
headlines, other personal details appear to also be at
play. Journalist Karine Ioffee writes that Simpson admits
“she is as hungry for attention as for calorie-rich food.”

Whatever Simpson’s motivations and whatever one
thinks of her choices, we all crave love and attention—and
we work our own angles in attempting to secure them.
The psalmist reiterated over and over again how vast and
limitless God’s love was for His people. Repeatedly, the
Psalms reminded Israel of God’s kindness, mercy, and
protection. They retold the story of how God had “rescued
[Israel] from the land of Egypt” and how, if Israel would
simply obey God and receive His love, God would “fill
[them] with good things” (81:10).

“But no,” says the psalmist, “[God’s] people wouldn’t
listen. Israel did not want [Him] around” (v.11). Isn’t it
interesting that we spurn the very One who loves us most
deeply? Often, we keep at arm’s length the only One
who has the capacity to fill our deepest longings and
cravings.

The psalm speaks of God’s intent to feed and satisfy us (v.16). He desires to
love us in the places where we’re most deprived of love, and He wants to satisfy
our deepest longings—our longings for Him. But God will not force Himself upon
us. We have to open ourselves to Him. We have to walk into the wide arms of
His love. —Winn Collier

more›
Psalm 81 speaks of
Israel’s “stubborn desires”
(v.12) that seem to be at
odds with the people’s
longings God wants to
fill (v.10). Look through
the psalm and see what
these competing desires
might be.

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Soul Surfer

2011-04-08T15:02:00.000-05:00

Daily Devotional - Featuring Soul Surfer - April 07, 2011

Get Some Perspective

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you,
plans to give you hope and a future.” –Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV)

Greg, an accomplished surfer, was out in some large surf one day and wound up wiping out and getting
spun around by a powerful wave. Once he got past the tumbling motion, Greg put his feet on the
sand and pushed up toward the surface. He immediately got a nasty surprise as his head smacked against
something hard. Only discipline and years of surfing experience kept him from panicking—and perhaps
drowning. Greg suppressed his fear and took in his surroundings. The huge wave had swept him into a
small, underwater cave. When he pushed off from the bottom, he had struck his head against the cave’s
ceiling. Once Greg saw the big picture and realized his situation, he was able swim out through the
mouth of the cave and make his way up to the surface.

Our perspective can be small and limited by our individual experiences, our fears, and a lack of knowledge
of the future. But God is “omniscient,” which means that He has the capacity to know all things
in the past, present, and future. When we trust in God’s promises, believing that He loves us and has a
good purpose for our lives, we see a different—and bigger—point of view. So, do whatever it takes to
get some perspective. That new perspective will allow God to use you to accomplish the good works for
which He created you, the ones He planned even before you were born!

Read: Jeremiah 29:10–14
In this passage, God is speaking to the people of Israel through the prophet Jeremiah. The Israelites are
about to be conquered by their enemies, the Babylonians, and spend the next 70 years in exile. But God
reassures His people that they will return home to Israel, and He will listen to them and prosper them.
1. In this passage, God reveals His character and His love for His people. What comfort and encouragement
do you receive from this passage?
2. What’s your reaction to the promise God makes in verses 12 and 13?

Read: Isaiah 55:8–9 and Proverbs 3:5–6
1. Has there been a time in your life when things “just plain didn’t make sense?” What happened, and
would you say you had a broad perspective on the problem or a limited one?
2. When you’re faced with problems or difficult decisions, do you trust in God completely, or do you
tend to rely on your own judgment? What would help you lean more on God and His wisdom?

Read: Ephesians 2:10
1. How do you feel about the fact that God call you His “handiwork?” (Some translations use the
words “masterpiece” or “workmanship.”)
2. In what ways did Bethany use the loss of her arm as a way to “do good works” for others? What
could you do with your life’s circumstances to positively impact the lives of the people around you?

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“The Beauty of the Cross” - Jonny Diaz

2011-04-06T13:43:00.001-05:00

Daily Devotional - Featuring Jonny Diaz - April 06, 2011

The “BEAUTY OF THE CROSS”

Is found in the Resurrection

Jonny Diaz

Read

1 Peter 1:3b-4 (The Message)

Because Jesus was raised from the dead, we've been given a brand-new life and have everything to live for, including a future in heaven. . .

There is a song on my new record called, “The Beauty of the Cross.” This title may not sound very strange or contradictory to you. After all, we’ve been singing songs such as “When I Survey the Wondrous Cross,” and “How Beautiful the Cross” for decades. However, if you step back and check this out from a non-churched perspective, you have to admit that it seems a little, well . . . weird!

That’s because to this day the cross is known as one of the most torturous killing devices ever conceived. No one would ever sing a song called “The Beauty of the Electric chair,” or “The Wondrous Lethal Injection.” Songs like these would not only get puzzled looks, but they would enrage many listeners. And yet, we sing songs proclaiming the wondrous beauty of the cross, and no one bats an eye. How do we explain this?

Well, it was on that ugly, barbaric cross that God’s amazing love for us was demonstrated. It was on that cross that Jesus’ ultimate sacrifice for us was made. It was on that cross where the forces of evil and the grace of God battled for supremacy.

At first glance, it would appear that evil was victorious . . . but three days later, when Jesus’ tomb was found empty, everything changed! You see, it was the resurrection that brought beauty to that blood-stained cross. It was the resurrection that turned tragedy into triumph and sacrifice into salvation. It was the resurrection that transformed condemnation into redemption.

Without the resurrection the cross would remain just a horrific symbol of suffering and shame. Instead it is a symbol of love and life and beauty. And, when we believe that Jesus died on that cross for our sins and that he rose from the grave on the third day, our lives become beautiful too.

-Jonny Diaz

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Particular People

2011-04-05T12:45:00.001-05:00

Daily Devotional, April 05, 2011

Particular People

read›
Philippians 1:1-11
I am writing to all of God’s holy people in Philippi (v.1).

I like to walk around my neighborhood and take in
the sights. As I wander along, my eyes view the
textures, the details, particular names, and particular
places. My street’s texture includes the Williams’ home
(neighborhood patriarchs who sip cold orange sodas on
their porch), the young couple who walk to the market
(always holding hands) and, of course, the third-grade
boy who’s up to some mischief. My neighborhood isn’t
an undefined stretch of houses, but individual people
with individual stories. As professor Elaine Scarry writes,
“Beauty takes place in the particular.”

Sometimes we forget that the Bible’s writers addressed
their words to particular people. They didn’t write to a
vague, general audience, and it’s likely that they had no
idea that their text would be read by so many people
(like us) over such a vast stretch of time. Rather, they
wrote to specific people in specific cities dealing with
specific questions and wrestling with specific problems.
The Bible’s authors were immersed in particulars.

When Paul wrote to the church gathered in Philippi,
he had individuals in mind. The apostle had words
for Euodia and Syntyche who apparently were having
a feud and needed to “settle [their] disagreement”
(Philippians 4:2). He spoke directly to those serving in
the halls of Roman power—in “Caesar’s household”
(v.22). Paul spoke to those he knew had sacrificed
generously to help their impoverished and devastated friends (v.15); and he also
wanted to encourage his faithful friend, Clement (v.3).

The Bible is a very particular book. It cuts into the grain of our lives just as it
delved into the lives of its first readers. Scripture rolls up its sleeves and digs in
with us, amid our doubts, our fears, our sin. Whatever our turmoil, God knows
it—and God’s Word has something to say to it. —Winn Collier

more›
Choose another New
Testament letter (Philemon
is a short one!) and read
it over. Note the many
particulars: specific
issues, unique stories,
and individual people.

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Called to Kindness

2011-04-04T08:26:00.001-05:00

Daily Devotional, April 04, 2011

Called to Kindness

read›
Acts 27
Julius was very kind to
Paul (v.3).

The baby threw up her breakfast—all over the
kitchen. She was crying and both of us were
covered in pureed pears. Then, a telemarketer
called, followed by a prerecorded political message.
When the phone rang a third time and it was the
handyman announcing his imminent arrival, I yelled:
“Will you have to come inside to fix the vent?” As I hung
up the phone, I felt terrible for being so unkind.

As Christians, we’re called to be kind (Ephesians 4:32).
It may sound basic, but in a society that worships sarcastic
comebacks and “me-first” attitudes, kindness is a lost art.
Julius, a high-ranking Roman official, was kind to his
prisoner Paul. On their maritime voyage to Rome, Julius
let Paul “go ashore to visit with friends so they could
provide for his needs” (Acts 27:3). Julius was lenient
when he could have been strict; permissive instead of
controlling—all to ensure Paul’s comfort. Kindness lends
a helping hand.

Kindness also protects the lives of defenseless people.
At one point in Paul’s journey, powerful waves began
to shred the boat into toothpicks. The guards decided
to kill the prisoners rather than let them escape into the
water. “But [Julius] wanted to spare Paul” (v.43), so he
put a stop to their evil plot. Amazingly, everyone made
it safely to Malta. The islanders were very kind there; in
the cold and rain, they kindled a welcoming fire (28:2).
Like the people of Malta, kindness may require us to show hospitality and greet
newcomers with open arms.

Maybe kindness is calling you to feed the hungry or to protect the defenseless.
Whatever you do, remember that each selfless act reflects God’s kind heart
toward us: “[God] is so rich in kindness and grace that He purchased our
freedom with the blood of His Son” (Ephesians 1:7). —Jennifer Benson Schuldt

more›
Read Matthew 25:35-40
to see why kindness
matters to Jesus.

next›
In what ways has God
showered His kindness
on you? What can you
do to show kindness to
someone this week?

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Impossible

2011-03-31T13:15:00.001-05:00

Daily Devotional, March 31, 2011

Impossible

read›
Matthew 6:1-6
Let someone else praise you, not your own
mouth—a stranger, not your own lips
(Proverbs 27:2).

Despite his status as a former world-class
basketball player, David Robinson has resisted
superstardom’s relentless temptations and forged a
reputation as a quality human being on and off the court.
One of the tangible results of his ongoing legacy is a
private school in San Antonio, Texas.

A cursory glance at this academically rigorous institution
won’t tell you that Robinson contributed $9 million (USD)
to found it. The Carver Academy doesn’t bear Robinson’s
name, but rather honors the memory of the great botanist
and educator George Washington Carver (1864–1943).
In a world that clamors for praise and adulation, David
Robinson’s humble generosity is refreshing.

In Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount, He warned against doing
things for the purpose of getting praise. “Watch out!” Jesus
said. “Don’t do your good deeds publicly, to be admired
by others, for you will lose the reward from your Father in
heaven” (Matthew 6:1). He extended that warning to indict
“hypocrites who love to pray publicly on street corners and
in synagogues where everyone can see them” (v.5). Jesus
wanted us to be secretive about our good deeds.

It’s easy to get addicted to praise and to fish for
compliments. We crave to hear the glowing things
people say about us. Humility, it seems, is impossibly
elusive. And yet to be humble is the absolute standard
Jesus calls us to. He lived it out for us. Paul wrote,
“Though He was God, He did not think of equality with God as something to
cling to. . . . He took the humble position of a slave” (Philippians 2:6-7).

Some good advice for your humility quest is found in these words: “Let
someone else praise you, not your own mouth—a stranger, not your own lips”
(Proverbs 27:2). “God blesses those who are humble,” Jesus declared, “for they
will inherit the whole earth” (Matthew 5:5). —Tim Gustafson

more›
What did Jesus say about
good deeds in Matthew
5:14-16? How does this
jibe with 6:1-6?

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Time Well Spent

2011-03-30T10:36:00.001-05:00

Daily Devotional, March 30, 2011

Time Well Spent

read›
2 Corinthians 4:7-18
We now have this light shining in our hearts,
but we ourselves are like fragile clay jars
containing this great treasure. This makes
it clear that our great power is from God, not
from ourselves (v.7).

Her name is Mary Jane. Having married a
steelworker, she’s seen the boom and death of a
Pennsylvania steel town where they happily raised
their children. When the town no longer held any promise
for them, they moved to Florida to enjoy their latter years.

Today, though, she misses her husband even though
he’s been gone a while (she’s uncertain of exactly how
long). As she sits gracefully in her wingback chair, Mary
Jane understands why she now lives in an assisted living
center. It’s because her memory has started to fail her.

Life is incredibly fragile. The apostle Paul reminds us
of the great contrast that exists between the everlasting,
transforming power of the gospel and our frail, finite
humanity. Trials will come, with some seeming as if they
will last forever while others appear merely as a blip on the
radar of life. But this truth remains: We have but one life to
expend for Jesus before we die (Job 14:5; James 4:14).
In the busyness of life, our priorities can seem to be so
appropriate and necessary. So much so, with our to-do
lists close to our eyes, we lose perspective—unable to
see anything beyond the blurry ink on the page, much
less the white of the paper in our hand.
For the believer, though, living a full life goes far
beyond any “bucket list” of new hobbies or dream
vacations. Knowing we were made for eternity
(Ecclesiastes 3:11; 2 Corinthians 4:18) should shape our
present days so that our lives are not only transformed
(2 Corinthians 4:16-17; Romans 12:2), but transformational (vv.11-15).

Our purpose is not to live successful, happy lives. We need “to realize the
brevity of life, so that we may grow in wisdom” (Psalm 90:12). Then our lives
can truly be a means for others to learn about Jesus (2 Corinthians 4:13-15).
—Regina Franklin

more›
Read Psalm 116:12-14
to see the context in which we should offer
our lives as a living sacrifice.

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Seeing It - Nicholas Vujicic

2011-03-29T11:25:00.000-05:00

Daily Devotional, March 29, 2011

Seeing It

read›
John 9:1-9
“It was not because of his sins or his parents’
sins,” Jesus answered. “This happened so the
power of God could be seen in him” (v.3).

On December 4, 1982, a baby boy named
Nicholas Vujicic was born. As he grew, Nick
learned to brush his teeth, comb his hair, and
dress himself each morning. Like other boys, he learned
to swim, fish, and play soccer. But throughout Nick’s life
there has always been one big difference between him and
those around him. Nick was born with the rare Tetra-amelia
disorder—he entered this world without arms or legs.

As you’d imagine, Nick’s life has had its share of pain.
His defects were a shock to his parents. How could God
have allowed this? Nick was teased at school. So much
so, that when he was just 8 years old, he tried to drown
himself in a bathtub. He prayed to God every day for a
miracle, but never woke up with new limbs.

Nick’s turning point came while reading today’s
highlighted Bible verse. Jesus met a man born blind,
and His disciples wondered what caused the defect.
“Was it because of his own sins or his parents’ sins?”
(John 9:1-2). According to traditional wisdom, there
was no suffering without sin. Either one’s parents or the
person himself had sinned, perhaps even in the womb.
Jesus said that sin wasn’t the issue. This man had been
born blind, He proclaimed, “so the power of God could
be seen in him” (v.3).

Nick told me, “Those verses changed my life forever.”
His disability has been used to reveal God’s power.
Today, he travels the world as an evangelist, and it’s claimed that 200,000
people have given their lives to Jesus through his testimony.

For the blind man, the power of God was seen in him receiving his sight
(v.7). For Nick, it’s seen in the lives changed through his story. “When God
doesn’t give you a miracle,” Nick says, “maybe you’re the miracle God has for
someone else.” —Sheridan Voysey

more›
Read Romans 5:3-5
to see the good that
suffering can produce.
Read 2 Corinthians
12:7-10 to see how
God can use our
weakness for His glory.

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The Way

2011-03-28T10:47:00.001-05:00

Daily Devotional, March 28, 2011

The Way

read›
Isaiah 30:1-22
This is the way you should go (v.21).

I always assumed that Isaiah 30:21 had something to
do with directions. My understanding was, if I stood
at a crossroads and veered one way or the other, the
Holy Spirit would let me know if I was going the right
way. God would alert me if I was heading into trouble or
beginning to venture outside of His will.

While I still believe that Isaiah 30 has application for
steps we should or shouldn’t take in life, after digging
deeper I now have a better grasp of what Isaiah was
communicating. In this passage, the prophet was
speaking to the wayward tribe of Judah, which had
foolishly entered into a treaty with Egypt. “Without
consulting Me, you have gone down to Egypt for help.
You have put your trust in Pharaoh’s protection” (v.2).
In so doing, Judah had:

• Made plans that were against God’s
• Made alliances not directed by the Lord
• Gone down to Egypt for help without first
consulting God
• Put their trust in Pharaoh’s protection

It was Isaiah’s role as a prophet to warn God’s
“rebellious children” (v.1) of the subsequent outcome that
awaited them: humiliation, shame, disgrace, loneliness,
and calamity (vv.3-5). Isaiah also plainly stated that
despite what they had done, God was waiting for His
stubborn people to repent and return to Him. He longed
to shower them with love, compassion, grace, and forgiveness (vv.18-19).

Through Isaiah, we learn the very essence of God’s heart: to draw His
beloved people close so that—despite their hideous sins—they could repent and
receive His infinite blessings. Our God is so loving that when Judah strayed—
and when we stray—God provides “a voice” to show us the way back to the
Lord’s protection and eternal riches. —Roxanne Robbins

more›
Read Isaiah 30:23-26
to see the blessings God promised to shower
on Israel if they would turn and “come to Him”
(v.18).

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Shawn McDonald - Don't Give Up (Acoustic)

2011-03-25T09:59:00.001-05:00

Daily Devotional, March 25, 2011 - Featuring Shawn McDonald

Don’t Give Up

Read Luke 18 1-8

"But as for you, be strong and do not give up, for your work will be rewarded." 2 Chronicles 15:7

I was never good at anything as a kid. I was always the smallest kid in school, the one who everybody found their place for laughs. I was an easy target because I had quite the temper. It’s all I had because it wasn’t like I could beat them up so I would just get mad. This would just egg them on and the teasing would continue. Most of my childhood consisted of this. I didn’t have a lot of self-confidence. I tried out for sports but was always the kid who kept the bench warm. I remember dreaming up scenarios about shooting the game-winning shot. Yeah, that never happened. I was always so timid and kind of scared of everything. I just wanted to be good at something. I just wanted to belong.

I turned to drugs when I got older. I think that there were many different reasons for it. Some were to hide the pain, some of it was to be cool, and well, when I was intoxicated I just didn’t care. For the first 20 years of my life I didn’t really believe that my life mattered. I really didn’t even know why I was here…at least not until I had an intense encounter with Christ.

Everybody’s story is different, that is the beauty of life. We all go through different storms at different times. We all mess up, but the good news is we have the choice of standing back up and trying again. The God I follow is a God full of mercy and healing. He is relentless and in love with us, even though it doesn’t make sense. Failing, to me, only comes when we choose to not try again.

I have seen and done so many things that I had never dreamed possible. But I had to fall a lot first. Seasons come and go, so hang in there, and please, whatever you do, don’t give up.

-Shawn McDonald

Visit: http://www.ShawnMcDonaldMusic.com

Shawn McDonald - Don't Give Up (Acoustic)

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Shawn McDonald - Rise

2011-03-23T11:23:00.000-05:00

Daily Devotional, March 23, 2011 - Featuring Shawn McDonald

Rise

Read John 16:31-33 Jesus said..."I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world." (v. 33)

I love to sit by the campfire. There is something very soothing about watching fire consume whatever is thrown into it. I had this fire pit out back of my house in Seattle that I spent many hours hanging with friends and thinking. It was kind of like going to Disneyland for me. I would have my bros over all the time and we would sit back there and talk about life, God, love, or whatever else had consumed our minds that evening. I loved it. You know those moments you wish would never end. Those moments in which life feels as if it was suppose to be. Still, peace, joy, love, laughs. These for me are what bring life into a broken world and yet they are sometimes hard to find.

I remember spending hours upon hours with my family camping as a kid. My grandpa and I would fish all day and then take our catch back to our campground, start a fire and cook our fish. My uncle Don would always yell at me because I loved to stick things in the fire pit. Mostly sticks, an occasional bug, or some trash I found laying around. But I loved to burn stuff. Fire is crazy. It literally burns things to nothing, yet the ashes that are left become a rich soil, making a place for new life.

I was watching a show on television not too long ago about the Sequoia National Park and how fires are a vital part of life in the forest. They were saying that if wild fires don’t happen, then new life and new trees don’t either.

This is very similar to our own lives. Sometimes we have to go through intense heat and flame to burn off all the trash we have collected along the way. I know going through hard times is never the place we want to be, but I believe in reason and that maybe it is the place we need to be. Even if it hurts to have our lives crumble down and burn to nothing, it is here where new life starts. If everything in your life right now seems great, I guarantee that some day you will encounter some kind of fire. One without the other gives us nothing to compare it to. We need fire to live, at least to live alive. Hang in there because out of the ashes we will rise!

-Shawn McDonald

Visit: http://www.OurDailyJourney.com

Rise (Acoustic) - Shawn McDonald

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Shawn McDonald - Closer CD

2011-03-21T09:28:00.001-05:00

Daily Devotional, March 21, 2011 - Featuring Shawn McDonald

Closer

Hebrews 10:22 "let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water."

When I was a little boy, I was so afraid of the dark. So much so, that I would be laying in bed and have to go to the bathroom and…well I wouldn’t go because I was sure there was something out there to get me. I would hold it to the point of no return and then bolt down to the end of the hall where the bathroom was, and flip on the light….safe. I had this fear of monsters as a child. Maybe from one too many shows on TV that I wasn’t supposed to be watching. I was just scared of the things I didn’t know. I would use the restroom, and then look back down the hall to see if anything was out there. It would take me a while to build up the courage to run back, being I had a little less motivation than my reasoning for going to the bathroom in the first place. Eventually I would build up the nerve and take off running back for my bedroom. I was so sure that…whatever was out there trying to get me…had moved from the hallway to under my bed. I would run full force and then leap, landing safe, yet again.

I don’t really have a lot of memories of ever really calling out for help. I think I had this underlying thought that I wasn’t supposed to be scared of things that weren’t really there. I still was, though.

As I have gotten older, my not-wanting-to-call-out-for-help hasn’t changed much. I don’t know why hiding from the things that hurt and scare us is so natural. I have found that God is the only healing force that gets me through the monsters of life, yet it takes everything in me to believe that. I’m trying to learn to let go and trust, and most importantly draw closer to God.

I have been going through one of the darkest and scariest times in my life these last few years. Peering down the old dark hallway, wondering if there would still be love on the other side.

I was sitting with a friend of mine, talking about the darkness we find ourselves in, and we could only come to one common ground: that the only way out of darkness is to draw near to light, it is to draw near to the life-giver, so that our lives can be healed.

I named my new record and my song “Closer” for a reason. Even though “closer” is such a simple thought, it is one of the most vital points of our faith.

I think that God desires our closeness with him much more than we realize. Where we spend our time is what makes us who we are. I don’t know about you, but I want life and I want it in abundance, making “closer” why I live.

-Shawn McDonald

Visit: http://www.ShawnMcDonaldMusic.com

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Simply Profound

2011-03-20T13:49:00.001-05:00

Daily Devotional, March 18, 2011

Simply Profound

read›
Isaiah 55:1-9
Let the wicked change their ways and banish the very
thought of doing wrong. Let them turn to the Lord
that He may have mercy on them. Yes, turn to our
God, for He will forgive generously (v.7).

A Malaysian gangster was extorting money from
a dental clinic. When the dentist gave him the
cash “payment” he was forced to make, he also
gave him a booklet. He said, “Read this. It’s good for
you.” The gangster was angry with the dentist for giving
him a religious booklet—a copy of Our Daily Bread
(sister publication of Our Daily Journey). But the dentist
replied, “Please keep it. Wait till you are in a good
mood, then read it.” Nine months later, when the booklet
accidentally dropped to the floor, the gangster picked
it up. As he read its pages, he was convicted of his sins
and received Jesus as his Savior.
What an incredible way to be confronted with God’s
Word! But was this story extraordinary? Maybe not. For
the God of the Bible is the God of the extraordinary.
Everything is possible with Him (Mark 10:27). God has
said of Himself: “My ways are far beyond anything you
could imagine” (Isaiah 55:8).
God’s ways may be inscrutable to us (v.9), but the way
to God is simple: Turn away from your sins and turn to
God (vv.6-7; Acts 3:19). Isaiah says, “Let the wicked
change their ways. . . . Let them turn to the Lord that He
may have mercy on them. Yes, turn to our God, for He
will forgive generously” (55:7). And that’s exactly what
the Malaysian gangster experienced. He’s now an exgangster
who loves God and others.
The invitation to come to God is given three times in
verses 1 to 3. Come is one of the most inviting words in Scripture. God invites
anyone and everyone to come to Him, to find life, and to experience His love
(v.3). “It’s all free!” (v.1). Come. If God can change the heart of a gangster, He
can change you. —K.T. Sim

more›
What is Jesus’
invitation to us in
Matthew 11:28-30
and John 6:35?

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Why Work?

2011-03-17T16:53:00.001-05:00

Daily Devotional, March 17, 2011

Why Work?

read›
Proverbs 12:24–13:4
Warn those who are lazy
(1 Thessalonians 5:14).

Think back to a time when you were part of a team
through school, church, business, volunteer work, or
sports. With that experience fresh in your mind, answer
the following: What was your team’s primary goal? Prepare
a class presentation? Share the gospel with 500 people?
Increase sales by 25 percent in three districts? Win a state
or national championship? Did your team meet its goals?
Why did your group effort succeed or fail? Who worked
the hardest on your team? Did anyone fail to put forth the
effort needed to achieve the desired results?

On almost every team, there’s a standout performer, the
one who works tirelessly and who diligently makes “use of
everything they find.” There’s also often a person who’s rich
with talent, but who’s lazy and poor at execution; the type
of person who doesn’t “even cook the game they catch”
(Proverbs 12:27).

People who fail to make the most of opportunities or
to follow through with their responsibilities hurt not only
themselves, but also their teammates. God’s Word has
much to say about the value of work. For example:
• “Lazy people want much but get little, but those
who work hard will prosper” (13:4).
• “Good planning and hard work lead to prosperity,
but hasty shortcuts lead to poverty” (21:5).
• Be happy in [your] work. That is why we are here!”
(Ecclesiastes 3:22).
• “Enjoy your work . . . this is indeed a gift from God” (5:19).
• “Those who work [hard] deserve their pay” (Luke 10:7).

Jesus also said, “Do not work for food that spoils, but for food that endures to
eternal life” (John 6:27 NIV). Make it your goal to complete what God calls you
to do, keeping in mind that no work “you do for the Lord is ever useless”
(1 Corinthians 15:58). —Roxanne Robbins

more›
Read Acts 20:24 to see
the work God assigned
to Paul. Consider how
this is your work as well.

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The Effects

2011-03-16T11:45:00.000-05:00

Daily Devotional, March 16, 2011

The Effects

read›
Romans 1:18-32
Since they thought it foolish to acknowledge
God, He abandoned them to their foolish
thinking and let them do things that should never
be done (v.28).

This was a tough week. Someone I know was accused
of a crime so brutal I can’t describe it. Waves of
disbelief, disgust, and sadness have swept over
me. I grieve the loss of life for the victim and what he
went through prior to his death. I grieve for the families
involved. I grieve the potential loss of a once-promising
future for my young friend. I grieve the effects of sin.

In Romans 1, the apostle Paul issued a solemn warning
we should all take to heart. The essence of his message?
Sin leads only to more sin and ultimately to spiritual
death. When people choose to reject and disobey
God, even though His message has been “obvious to
them” (vv.19-20), they begin a descent into darkness
and confusion (v.22). Their choices and actions become
foolish—worshiping their own sinful wants and desires
while ignoring “the glorious, ever-living God” (vv.23,25).
What happens next is scary, for God “abandons” or
turns these people over to experience the bitter fruit of
their wicked ways (vv.18,24). He allows them to reap
“the penalty they [deserve]” as they engage in acts “that
should never be done” (vv.27-28).

Paul wrote down many types of sins people will commit
as they sink deeper and deeper into darkness (vv.9-30).
Although the list isn’t exhaustive, a few stand out: haters
of God. When we turn from God, our hearts reveal our
hate for Him and His truth; proud—the worship of self can
lead to unimaginable consequences (see Adam and Eve); new ways of sinning—
jaded in depravity, our sins become worse and worse; heartless . . . no mercy—
our choices become cruel and evil.

Turn from your sin today before it’s too late. If you don’t, the effects could be
devastating for you . . . and others. —Tom Felten

more›
Check out Psalm 14:1-3
to see what God said
when He looked at the
hearts of “the entire
human race.”

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Aim of Instruction

2011-03-15T11:51:00.001-05:00

Daily Devotional, March 15, 2011

Aim of Instruction

read›
1 Timothy 1:1-11
The purpose of my instruction is that all
believers would be filled with love that comes from
a pure heart, a clear conscience, and genuine
faith (v.5).

Every so often, it’s good to ask yourself: “Why do
I do what I do?” It’s so easy to get caught up in
simply getting things done, while forgetting the
ultimate purpose for our tasks.

In 1 Timothy 1:4-7, Paul presents three failures of false
teachers that—if we’re not careful—can become our
failures too: (1) Their teachings promote meaningless
speculations that “don’t help people live a life of faith
in God” (v.4); (2) their motive is all about position and
reputation, rather than to see that the truth is taught
or that lives are changed (v.7); (3) they appear to be
impressive teachers, but they have no real understanding
of the law or the gospel (v.7).

In contrast, the purpose of good teaching is “that all
believers would be filled with love that comes from a
pure heart, a clear conscience, and genuine faith” (v.5).
When truth is being taught, preached, and believed, it
will always result in love—love for God and love for one
another. As we instruct others in God’s Word—whether
in Sunday school, a small group, one-to-one, from the
pulpit, or as parents—what’s the aim of our instruction? Is
it so they will “be filled with love”?

Paul tells us that teaching the Bible to others can be
an uphill task, for in the last days “people will no longer
listen to sound and wholesome teaching. They will follow
their own desires and will look for teachers who will
tell them whatever their itching ears want to hear” (2 Timothy 4:3). That’s why
we have the great responsibility to teach the Word in a way that reveals God’s
authority.

It’s not about our own thoughts or human wisdom but about accurately
representing His Word. —Poh Fang Chia

more›
Read Titus 2:7-8 to see
more qualities a person
who teaches God’s Word
should possess.

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False Strongholds

2011-03-10T21:56:00.000-06:00

Daily Devotional, March 10, 2011

False Strongholds

read›
Judges 6:11-14, 25-32
Build an altar to the Lord your God here on this
hilltop sanctuary. . . . Sacrifice the bull as a
burnt offering . . . , using as fuel the wood
of the Asherah pole you cut down (v.26).

Four-months pregnant with our second child, I was
surprised one day when a co-worker unexpectedly
shared that she had experienced a miscarriage
years prior at the 4-month mark. Pregnancy is a walk
of faith in itself, but her words sent what ifs racing
through my mind faster than my surging hormones. God,
however, was not taken by surprise. A few days later,
someone said to me, “I was praying for you and the
Lord told me to give you Psalm 8:2 as a Scripture for this
baby.” Those words were truly welcomed!

Before choosing his small but mighty band of men by
the river (Judges 7:8), sneaking to the enemy’s camp at
night (v.13), and winning the battle with clay pots on the
hill of Moreh (v.19), Gideon came up against the powers
of darkness in a formidable venue—the familiar.
When the angel of the Lord addressed Gideon by
calling him “mighty hero” (6:12), Gideon’s first question
was neither how nor when. Rather, he asked, “If the
Lord is with us, why has all this happened to us?”
(v.13). Eventually he came to realize that God had not
abandoned them. He had been true to His Word. God
simply wouldn’t be their stronghold if others took His
place (Deuteronomy 11:16-17).

Before they could ever be free from their oppressors,
the false places of protection had to be destroyed. After
pulling down the gods made by human hands, Gideon
signified the supremacy of Yahweh by building an altar to the Lord “on the top of
[the] stronghold” (6:26 NASB).

In our distress, God sends His Word. We can either worship at the places
of false protection (for me, trying to control by imagining every “what if . . .”),
or we can acknowledge that He alone is our strength and stronghold.
—Regina Franklin

more›
Read Psalm 9:1-10 to see
how David celebrated
God as his stronghold.

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burlap and ashes

2011-03-09T18:09:00.001-06:00

Daily Devotional, March 09, 2011

Covered In Ashes

read›
Isaiah 58:1-14
[You] cover yourselves with ashes. . . . Do you
really think this will please the Lord? (v.5).

Today is Ash Wednesday. It’s the first day of the
Lent season, observed several weeks before Good
Friday. Those who attend Ash Wednesday services
typically apply ashes (or will have ashes applied) to their
foreheads. The priest or pastor marks the forehead of
each worshiper, often saying, “Remember that you are
dust and to dust you shall return.”

Ashes in the Bible are viewed as a symbol of humility
and associated with repentance from sin. To demonstrate
that they had repented from their sins, people put on burlap
or sackcloth and sat in ashes or placed ashes on themselves
(Esther 4:3; Job 42:6; Matt. 11:21). So, wearing burlap
and ashes are ways to express sorrow and mourning.
The prophet Isaiah, however, warned that merely
performing an outward show of religious rituals doesn’t
please God. “They act so pious! They come to the temple
every day . . . pretending they want to be near Me.

You humble yourselves by going through the motions of
penance . . . . Do you really think this will please the
Lord?” (Isaiah 58:2,5). God looks at the heart—and their
hearts were far from Him (29:13).

Isaiah called God’s people to please Him by doing
what’s right: Act justly and treat workers fairly (58:3,6,9),
stop fighting and quarrelling among themselves (v.4), help
those burdened or imprisoned by life’s circumstances and
poverty (v.6), and be generous to those in need (vv.7,10).
Simply observing external rituals will not please God if the heart does not seek
to obey Him. God lamented to His prophet: “My people come pretending to be
sincere and sit before you. They listen to your words, but they have no intention
of doing what you say. . . . They hear what you say, but they don’t act on it!”
(Ezekiel 33:31-32).

God wants your heart, not a show. —K.T. Sim

more›
Read Micah 6:8 to
understand what God
requires of His people.

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Goldfield's Miracle

2011-03-09T17:57:00.000-06:00

Daily Devotional, March 08, 2011

Goldfield's Miracle

read›
1 Corinthians 15:12-53
In fact, Christ has been raised from the dead.
He is the first of a great harvest of all who have
died (v.20).

Science’s discovery of nature’s laws makes an
intervening God less believable. We surmise that
lost limbs don’t grow back, and dead men don’t
return to life. Or do they?

In October 2008, medical doctor Sean George
was driving from Esperance to Kalgoorlie in the West
Australian goldfields, when he started feeling chest pain.
He called his wife and got to the nearest clinic. A short
while later, he was pronounced dead. Fifty-five minutes of
CPR and electric-shock therapy couldn’t bring him back.
The death was called when Sean’s wife, Sherry, arrived.
Sherry walked into the room and picked up her
husband’s cold hand. ”Lord,” she prayed. “Sean is only
39 years old. We have a 10-year-old boy. I need a
miracle.” At that moment, medical staff reported, Sean’s
lifeless body took a deep breath and his heartbeat
returned on the monitor. Later, Sean told me his miracle
story as a completely well man.

Skepticism about the miraculous goes way back. The
apostle Paul confronted cynicism about resurrection
among the believers in Corinth (1 Corinthians 15:12).
He reminded them that Jesus’ bodily resurrection was the
foundation of the Christian faith (v.4). If it was untrue,
their faith was “useless” (v.14) for they were still lost in
their sins (v.17). Just as importantly, Paul said that Jesus’
resurrection was the prototype for our own (vv.21-23).

Our bodies will be raised and transformed, just like Jesus’ (vv.20,53).
I firmly believe in Jesus’ bodily resurrection. And although Sean George’s
miracle was resuscitation, rather than resurrection, it is still modern proof of
what God can do. Talk about inspiring! For a true resurrection awaits those who
love Christ—the complete transformation of our bodies, souls, and hearts.
—Sheridan Voysey

more›
What does Paul reveal
in Romans 8:11 about
the life that the Holy
Spirit brings?

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Random Strangers

2011-03-07T09:02:00.000-06:00

Daily Devotional, March 07, 2011

Random Strangers

read›
Hebrews 5:11-14
Those who are mature. . . recognize the
difference between right and wrong (v.14).

I recently read an article about a site where Web
chatters are exposed to random strangers from
around the world. As the article states, “One minute
you’re chatting via Webcam with a mom of two [in the
US] and the next you’re staring at a stark-naked man in
Bangkok.” One psychiatrist calls the site “a predator’s
paradise.” Definitely not a destination for the discerning!

The writer of Hebrews provides us with a helpful wakeup
call to make sure we’re growing in discernment. He
wrote to his readers, “There is much more we would like
to say about this, but it is difficult to explain, especially
since you are spiritually dull and don’t seem to listen”
(Hebrews 5:11). The words “spiritually dull” literally
mean dimwitted and negligent. (Words that definitely
apply to people using the Web site mentioned earlier!)
Back when Hebrews was written, the Christians in
house churches in Rome (to whom the letter was likely
addressed), were struggling to maintain their faith and to
live it out with conviction. Christians who show a lack of
discernment today often wrestle with the same two issues.
So how can you become more discerning?

• Do what you know. The believers in Rome had been
well fed spiritually, but they lived like spiritual babies
(v.12). They acted as if they didn’t “know how to do
what is right” (v.13). We become more discerning when
we actively live out the truths of God’s Word.
• Train your mind for action. We can better tell right from wrong as we train
our minds (v.14), and “prepare [them] for action” (1 Peter 1:13 NIV). This
includes continually growing in our knowledge of God’s Word and consciously
applying its wisdom to our choices.

It’s not discerning to do stuff like chatting online with random strangers.
Instead, let’s pursue discerning lives as we live out God’s truth. —Tom Felten

more›
Read Philippians 1:9-10
to see the good things
that result from the
greater knowledge
and understanding that
God provides.

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Good Ground

2011-03-03T17:46:00.001-06:00

Daily Devotional, March 03, 2011

Good Ground

read›
Luke 8:11-15
The seeds that fell on the
good soil represent . . . people who hear God’s
word, cling to it, and patiently produce a huge
harvest (v.15).

At dusk, I left the house with a fistful of wildflower
seeds. I crossed the street and tossed them into
the open field adjacent to our home. I waited all
summer for the flowers to bloom, but all that grew was a
monster thistle bush, milkweed, and some prairie grass.
Since then, I’ve learned a bit about gardening. I now
know that my silly experiment was doomed to fail
because seeds prefer soil that is moist, free of weeds,
and deep enough to accommodate their roots. They need
good ground.
In the parable of the sower, Jesus said that we
are good ground for the gospel when we hear and
understand God’s Word. While most people get the gist
of the gospel, not everyone understands it. For example,
recent studies show that many professing Christians don’t
believe Jesus is the only way to eternal life. Our world
wants us to be cool with Christ, as well as other religious
leaders, teachings, and practices. That’s not what it looks
like to understand the gospel.
Those of us who comprehend the good news and
“cling to it” are supposed to bear fruit, patiently
producing “a huge harvest” (Luke 8:15). Spiritually
speaking, our lives should be characterized by Christlike
righteousness (Philippians 1:11). Over a lifetime of
experiences, our spiritual yield of righteousness should
multiply. Jesus said, “When you produce much fruit, you
are My true disciples” (John 15:8).
We can consider ourselves good ground for the gospel if we understand that
God sent His only Son to take the punishment for our sin, and that Christ alone
is the way to eternal life (John 14:6). Then we can bear the fruit of a changed
life—one that produces “thirty, sixty, or even a hundred times as much as had
been planted” (Matthew 13:23). —Jennifer Benson Schuldt

more›
Read Colossians 1:3-7
to learn what happens
when people receive
the good news. Read
Matthew 13:19-23 to
find out how people
can become sidetracked
from living fruitful
Christian lives.

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Never Too Late

2011-03-02T15:22:00.001-06:00

Daily Devotional, March 02, 2011

Never Too Late

read›
Judges 16:23-30
Then Samson prayed to the Lord, “Sovereign
Lord, remember me again. O God, please
strengthen me just one more time” (v.28).

In the popular TV series LOST, a character named
Sayid Jarrah was an airplane crash survivor and
castaway on a mysterious tropical island. As a
former military interrogator, he was haunted by those he
tortured and spent much of his adult life trying to atone
for his past mistakes.

At the start of LOST’s final season, Sayid died from a
gunshot wound. He was resuscitated, however, by an
evil character (the unnamed man in black) and recruited
to the dark side. But just when viewers were convinced
that he had given himself completely over to evil, he
sacrificed his life to save his fellow crash survivors.
That shocking twist (something LOST fans were
accustomed to seeing) takes me back to the Old
Testament character Samson. Remember him? The longhaired
Nazirite, endowed by God’s Spirit with superhuman
strength to deliver Israel from the hands of the
Philistines? (Judges 13:5). Unfortunately, Samson became
full of himself and fell prey to manipulation by the woman
he loved (16:4). Eventually, Delilah coaxed him into
divulging the secret of his strength, which she then used
to betray him into the hands of his enemies (vv.5-21).
Samson’s foolish pride left him blind, weak, and in
shackles. Publicly disgraced and chained between
two massive pillars supporting the roof of a crowded
Philistine temple, Samson humbled himself and asked
God for one last feat of super-human strength. God granted Samson’s request.
And with one mighty push, Samson brought down the temple, destroying more
enemies in his death than he did while he was alive (Judges 16:23-30).

Samson’s life shows it’s never too late to come back to God and do something
great for Him. Even after we make huge mistakes, our lives can still be redeemed
for His purposes. —Jeff Olson

more›
Read John 21:15-17 and
notice how Jesus shows
Peter, who denied Him
three times, that He was
not done with him.

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God is King

2011-03-02T15:19:00.000-06:00

Daily Devotional, March 01, 2011

God is King

read›
Psalm 97
For you, O Lord, are supreme over all the earth (v.9).

Recently, my wife, Miska, and I toured London. As
we walked through Westminster Abbey (founded
in AD 960), we viewed the many tombs of monarchs
who reigned centuries ago. We also took in Buckingham
Palace, the main home of the British royal family. Touring
the royal and governmental sites, the word sovereign
repeatedly appeared. The queen’s subjects refer to her
as their Sovereign. When she goes to parliament, she
uses the Sovereign’s entrance. Though England’s ruling
structure has changed, the reflections of an age when
royals ruled absolutely can still be seen.
The psalmist declares another Sovereign who is over the
world: God. He’s the one who is supreme (absolute, final,
unmatched, unparalleled) over all the earth. God rules
over every corner of the globe, every square inch.
Psalm 97 opens with this unflinching, singular
declaration: “The Lord is King!” (v.1). No matter what
powers (political, religious, philosophical, economic) may
declare their autonomy and insist on our allegiance, the
Lord alone is King. No matter how often we’re tempted
to believe that we rule our own destiny or that we must
orchestrate our own existence, the Lord (alone) is King—
not us.
This is astoundingly good news! As the psalmist
proclaims: “The Lord is king! Let the earth rejoice!” We can
revel in joy because God is king. Yes, God is King, and He
can rescue His people “from the power of the wicked” (v.10). When God is King,
justice rules (v.8). When God is King, light “shines on the godly” (v.11). When
God is King, our world and all we are trying to make of it doesn’t depend on us.
No wonder, then, that the “farthest coastlands [can] be glad” (v.1). All of
God’s creation is free to laugh and dance and live in obedience to the one true,
good King. —Winn Collier

more›
Psalm 97 has many
images. Which ones feel
more powerful to you,
more ominous, more
restful? Write a few of
these images down and
consider how they lead
you to acknowledge that
God is King.

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Seeing Potholes

2011-02-28T23:50:00.001-06:00

Daily Devotional, February 28, 2011

Seeing Potholes

read›
1 Kings 11:1-13
He had warned Solomon specifically
about worshiping other gods, but Solomon did
not listen to the Lord’s command (v.10).

Potholes can be a pain. If a car tire hits a deep one,
we’re talking some serious damage. That’s why
the idea of Italian engineering students Domenico
Diego and Cristina Corradini is so bright—literally! The
duo, noting that many potholes in Europe aren’t repaired
due to lack of funding, have come up with something
called the Street Safe initiative. Their creative plan calls
for potholes to be painted bright yellow, an inexpensive
way to help drivers avoid big pits in the pavement.

God knew the “potholes” that Solomon needed to
avoid—things that could bring his kingdom down. “He
had warned [him] . . . but Solomon did not listen to the
Lord’s command” (1 Kings 11:10). Instead, the king who
was known for wisdom unwisely withdrew into isolation
with his “many foreign women” (v.1). God had warned
His people against marrying such women, for “they will
turn your hearts to their gods” (v.2; Exodus 34:12-17).
Solomon saw the potholes and still caved. And this
happened even after God had warned him on three
occasions to obey Him (talk about “bright yellow paint”!):
“Follow Me and obey My commands” (3:14); “Obey all
My decrees” (1 Kings 6:12); “Follow Me with integrity
and godliness” (9:4). Turning from God to the isolation
of his private pleasures and folly, Solomon chose sin, and
God’s subsequent discipline resulted in his kingdom being
taken from him (11:11).

When we turn from God—isolating ourselves from Him and godly friends—
we’re headed for destruction. Sometimes we think we can cuddle with sin or
keep it hidden, but God’s bright warnings can’t be avoided. Eventually, guilt will
sweep over us as God brings “our secret sins” to light (Psalm 51:2, 90:8).
Don’t fall into the pothole of isolation. Open up and let God and godly
friends help you repent of your secret sins. —Tom Felten

more›
What does Hebrews
10:22 tell us about how
to deal with the guilt of
our sin? Read Luke 6:45
and—in the light of Jesus’
words—consider what’s
hidden in your heart.

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Lost

2011-02-24T09:12:00.001-06:00

Daily Devotional, February 24, 2011

Lost

read›
Proverbs 2:1-11
Then you will understand what is right, just, and
fair, and you will find the right way to go (v.9).

"We just witnessed a stunning, daring bit of
TV storytelling that set the show on a new,
series-ending path—one that will track
the characters through parallel, alternate universes,”
wrote USA Today’s Robert Bianco following the 2-hour
premiere of the last season of Lost.

“We are now following two versions of their lives.
“That’s no easy task to pull off,” Bianco insisted. “Few
shows would even try. It worked because the script and
actors so clearly delineated the difference between the
two groups: one transformed by the island, one left as
they were when we first met them.”

It is indeed rare for television to delve so deeply into
character study, to attempt to unravel the complexities of
man’s lost soul. While brilliant scriptwriting can help expose
dark hearts, only God-inspired Scripture can provide a
genuine map home and a formula for true and lasting
change—salvation “through” Jesus Christ (John 14:6).
To find your way, “Don’t copy the behavior and customs
of this world,” the apostle Paul teaches, “but let God
transform you into a new person by changing the way
you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you,
which is good and pleasing and perfect” (Romans 12:2).
As the Lord told the Israelites, when we come
“weeping and seeking the Lord” our God in repentance,
striving to find the way back home, then we will bind
ourselves to the Lord “with an eternal covenant that will never be forgotten”
(Jeremiah 50:4-5).

Are you lost? Then “stop at the crossroads and look around. Ask for the old,
godly way, and walk in it. Travel its path, and you will find rest for your souls”
(Jeremiah 6:16). —Roxanne Robbins

more›
According to Luke 15,
what does God do when
you’re lost?

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This Little Light of Mine Devotional - Addison Road Band

2011-02-24T09:10:00.001-06:00

Daily Devotional- Featuring Addison Road, February 23, 2011

This Little Light of Mine Devotional - Addison Road

Matthew 5:16 "In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven. "

It all started on a Boy Scout camp out. I remember it clearly, I was nine years old and we were up late at night all sitting around the camp fire. The night had been fun so far but as we sat around people started telling dirty jokes and gross stories. Something seemed wrong to be in such a beautiful place and to be talking about those ugly things. So I quietly got up and went and found a spot by myself. We were in the middle of nowhere and it was late at night so I could see the stars shine brighter than I ever had. I laid there with my hands behind my head, staring up at the stars and talked to God. I don't remember now exactly what I prayed about but that moment has stuck with me ever since.

That was one of the things I was thinking about when I wrote, "This Little Light of Mine." I was trying to remember that childlike innocence that I had when I talked to God. That openness and sincerity that comes in simple phrases and honest words. I think there's something to that. I wrote the whole song in bed one night, I had everything done but the chorus. I kept thinking there was some children's song about shining your light but I couldn't remember what it was. The next morning I grabbed my guitar and looked on the computer and realized the song I was thinking of was the old song, "This Little Light of Mine." I put music to all the words I had written along with the chorus and the whole thing took about ten minutes.

Writing this song was one of the coolest things I've ever experienced. As soon as it was done I felt like it was going to be a song that meant something to a lot of people. Flash forward a year later . . . we recorded the song and decided to get our fans involved in helping us make a music video for the song. We asked them to send clips of how they let the love of Christ shine through them. They showed their light at school, at home with their families and friends, and also taking care of the very sick. We were blown away by so many people responding and sending in video clips of the ways they shine their light.

Matthew 5:16 says, "In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven." I feel like the light of Christ shines most in me in encouraging others. Reminding people that God never gives up on them, never turns away, and always offers his hope to us no matter what. I think it's shining your light, in so many different ways, that brings God's light and hope to a dark world. So go brave the dark and let your little light shine.

-Ryan Gregg

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Wild Gourds

2011-02-22T10:55:00.001-06:00

Daily Devotional, February 22, 2011

Wild Gourds

2 Kings 4:38-41
The ear tests the words it hears just as the mouth
distinguishes between foods (Job 34:3).

As you probably know, not all mushrooms are
safe to eat. In fact, only 3,000 of the 14,000
known mushroom species are edible. Poisonous
mushrooms are also known as toadstools (thought to
have originated from the German word todes which
means death). That’s why I rely on the experts, for I can’t
tell a good mushroom from a bad toadstool.

Due to a famine, Elisha once sent his servant to look
for some food to eat (not necessarily mushrooms!). The
young man came back with herbs and wild gourds, and
shredded them to make a pot of hot stew.

The famine referenced in 2 Kings 4 came about because
the people had rejected God’s Word (Leviticus 26:3-4;
1 Kings 18:18). This resulted in both a natural famine and
one of not hearing the word of the Lord (Amos 8:11).
I see a spiritual analogy here. For the world we live in
is like that pot of stew—full of all kinds of ideas, beliefs,
convictions, philosophies, and teachings. They’re tossed
in together, mixed, adapted, assimilated, and served to
Christians as wholesome biblical truth.

God’s people should be hungry for His Word. But
there is no shortage of “wild gourds” out there. You or
someone in your church family may read a book or go
to a conference that presents what sounds like sound
teaching from God’s Word, but it’s actually nothing but
“wild gourds.” Soon it’s served in “a pot of stew” to the
rest of the congregation. That’s why it’s so important
that we grow in our knowledge of what God’s Word actually says, and what it
doesn’t say (Hebrews 5:14; Ephesians 4:11-14).

Got some “wild gourds” that you’ve taken in? Test them by the scrutiny and
authority of God’s Word (Job 12:11; Mark 4:24). If you don’t, their poison will
pass from you to others. —K.T. Sim

more›
What did the Bereans
and the Thessalonians
do to test the teachings
they were hearing?
(Acts 17:11; 1 Th. 5:21).

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Divine Design

2011-02-21T11:38:00.001-06:00

Daily Devotional, February 21, 2011

Divine Design

read›
Colossians 1:15-20
He made the things we can see and the things we can’t see (v.16).

Intelligent design. It’s hard to go a day without
encountering that phrase, and here’s why. The more
scientists study matter like molecular DNA—the
building block of life—the more it points to a Creator.
As Dr. Stephen Meyer, author of Signature in the Cell,
writes, “The best, most causally adequate explanation
for the origin of the specified, digitally encoded
information in DNA is that it . . . had an intelligent
source.” Intelligent design = divine design.

It’s not surprising that the more scientists study what
can’t be seen by the human eye, the more they see the
fingerprints of God (Colossians 1:15). Paul stated, in
what likely were lyrics of an early church hymn, the
reality of Christ being behind DNA and every other part
of creation. He wrote, “Through [Jesus] God created
everything in the heavenly realms and on earth” (v.16).
Those words were significant for the believers in the
church at Colosse, for they were dealing with false
teachers who taught that angelic mediators were doing
what only Jesus can do. But they also help us address
the attacks by secular scientists against the Christian faith
today. For, Paul says, “He made the things we can see
and the things we can’t see” (v.16).

Woven into every strand of DNA is the divine work
of Jesus, the One who “holds all creation together”
(v.17). He is our confidence, our hope, and the source
of every created thing. And as we look at His amazing creation, we—like the
Colossians—are able to stand for the truth found in His Word. Attacks on what
we believe are to be expected, but they pale in the light of Jesus’ reality (2:8).

Be encouraged! The more we sharpen the lens on even the tiniest parts of
God’s creation, the better we see His divine design. —Tom Felten

more›
Read Genesis 1:3 and
John 1:3-4. What two
kinds of light has Jesus
brought us by His divine
design?

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principled

2011-02-17T09:44:00.000-06:00

Daily Devotional, February 17, 2011

principled

read›
Luke 13:10-21
This dear woman, a daughter of Abraham,
has been held in bondage by Satan for
eighteen years. Isn’t it right that she be
released, even on the Sabbath? (v.16).

Teaching in a Christian preparatory school, I am
accustomed to including an “honor code” on each
quiz and test that my students take. Because they
live in a world of moral relativism, some students are
accustomed to signing on the line even when they’ve
cheated. Recently I had to turn a student in for cheating,
and as I watched the administration seek to respond
with grace and justice, I saw in action what Jesus tried
to impart to those around Him. People and principles go
hand-in-hand.

Comfortable in their list of rules, the Pharisees
couldn’t understand why Jesus would heal a woman on
the Sabbath (Luke 13:12-14). Due to their own selfrighteousness,
they missed the point—and the grace of
God. The rule was to put aside work in order to save the
Sabbath for God’s glory alone. Jesus’ point? What better
way to glorify God than by allowing Him to do the work
of healing. They saw the law; Jesus saw the person.
In our dealings with others, we need to hold fast to the
truth of God’s Word and its principles. To become passive
in our response to sin is to build our houses on shifting
sand (Matthew 7:26). Jesus came to show us that the law
for the sake of the law brings only death (Romans 4:15),
but implementing the law to demonstrate our need for
Jesus brings life (3:19-24).

God’s justice and His mercy are not opposing forces.
The purpose of mercy is to make way for grace, and extending grace doesn’t
mean setting aside principles. Grace understands that the true purpose behind
any standard is found in what Jesus lifted up as the most important of all—Godcentered
love (Mark 12:30-31). —Regina Franklin

more›
Read Micah 6:8 to
discover how we should
live out both God’s mercy
and His justice.

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Silence of God

2011-02-17T09:36:00.001-06:00

Daily Devotional, February 16, 2011

Silence of God

read›
Psalm 13
O Lord, how long will You forget me? Forever?
How long will You look the other way? (v.1).

She sits alone in her room—dark circles under her
eyes, tears running down her cheeks. Since her
teenage years, God has been her fulfillment, but
her heart still has gaps—empty places, hollow spaces,
unmet longings. And she has prayed, oh how she has
prayed for God to give her the desires of her heart. Or
to take them away. One or the other. But neither has
happened. Ten long years of waiting. “How long will
you forget me?” she whispers. “Forever?”

We may celebrate the goodness of God during times
of answered prayer and unexpected blessing, but sooner
or later, we all face the silence of God. Israel did (1 Sam.
3:1). Job did (Job 23:1-9). Asaph did—crying to God all
night without answer (Ps. 77:1-9). “Why do you hide when
I am in trouble?” David prayed (10:1). “Do not turn a deaf
ear to me,” he demanded (28:1). “How long must I struggle
with . . . sorrow in my heart every day?” he cried. “Turn
and answer me” (13:2-3). Even Jesus experienced the
deathly silence of the Father (Matt. 27:46).

What is God doing during His silence? Preparing
the answer to our request? Maybe. Testing the depth
of our devotion? Perhaps. Developing our character?
Undoubtedly. Christian martyrs of old were sawn in two
out of devotion to Jesus. Why shouldn’t we endure a little
pain as we mature? Sometimes, however, we may never
know why God is keeping quiet.

Thankfully, God does break His silence. He spoke to Israel (1 Samuel 3:4-14)
and Job (Job 38); the morning finally dawned for Asaph (Psalm 77:11-20) and
David (28:6-9); the silence of Good Friday was followed by the shout of Easter
(Matthew 28).

But, until she hears from God, that girl—representing so many others—sits in
her room alone. Or is she? —Sheridan Voysey

more›
Read Psalm 5:1-3. What
posture does David
suggest we take in the
midst of God’s silence?
How might Luke 18:6-8
provide encouragement
as we wait?

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Little Platoons

2011-02-17T09:34:00.001-06:00

Daily Devotional, February 15, 2011

Little Platoons

read›
Colossians 4:7-18
These are the only Jewish believers among my
co-workers; they are working with me here
for the kingdom of God. And what a comfort they
have been! (v.11).

In his book, Waking the Dead, John Eldredge writes:
“When he left Rivendell, Frodo didn’t head out with
1,000 elves. He had eight companions. Jesus didn’t
march around backed by hundreds of followers either.
He had 12 men. . . . Though we are part of a great
company, we are meant to live in little platoons. The little
companies we form must be small enough for each of
the members to know one another as friends and allies.”
In the closing section of Colossians, Paul listed and
described his little platoon of friends and allies.

In describing his platoon, Paul used relational language.
He said Tychicus was a “dear brother, a faithful minister,”
and a “fellow servant” in the Lord (4:7 NIV). It was
probably Paul’s theology of equality that allowed him to
build a significant relationship with the slave Onesimus
(v.9; Philemon 1:10). The apostle called him “a faithful
and beloved brother.” Another platoon member was Mark
(Col. 4:10). This was the same Mark who abandoned
Paul in the middle of a mission. When he went AWOL, it
caused so much tension between Paul and Barnabas that
they ended up separating (Acts 15:36-39). The fact that
Mark was now ministering with (and to) Paul (2 Timothy
4:11) reveals that the two had renewed their relationship
through forgiveness and reconciliation.

In addition to Tychicus, Onesimus, and Mark, Paul also
listed Aristarchus, Jesus (who is called Justus), Luke, and
Demas (Colossians 4:10-14). Lastly, Paul wrote that Epaphras also cared for him
and the Colossians by praying “earnestly” for them (vv.12-13). The men made up a
small platoon, but it had a big relational impact on the apostle Paul.
As believers in Jesus, we’re called to live in little platoons as well. These
groups of growing Christians will thrive as we accept, forgive, serve, comfort,
pray for, and work hard for one another. —Marvin Williams

more›
Read Romans 16 to view
another list of Paul’s
friends and how they
made a great impact on
his life and ministry.

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Letting Go

2011-02-14T10:23:00.001-06:00

Daily Devotional, February 14, 2011

Letting Go

read›
Matthew 10:32-42
If you love your father or mother more than you
love Me, you are not worthy of being Mine; or
if you love your son or daughter more than Me,
you are not worthy of being Mine (v.37).

Li Yue fell hard for Hou You Jing. They were from
the same province, shared a love for badminton
and western movies, and—as if by fate—met while
working second shift at a microchip processor company
in Shenzhen. Li Yue couldn’t stand to be apart from
Hou You Jing, and she didn’t notice that her constant
calls and weekend plans were beginning to smother
him. He slowly pulled away—finally telling her that he
was ending their relationship. Li Yue was devastated. In
desperation, she pleaded, “But I love you!”

But was it truly love? Jonathan Edwards explained that
we truly love another person only if we love them first in
God. Any love that doesn’t begin with God is actually a
form of selfishness. We love ourselves rather than others,
our family rather than another family, or our city or
country rather than another town or nation. Our circle of
love may widen to include everyone on planet Earth, yet
we’ll still prefer the people on our planet to the possible
inhabitants of others. Edwards explained that “true virtue
consists in love to Being [his term for God] in general”
and only afterward “to any one particular being.”

This is partially Jesus’ point when He commands us
to love Him more than our closest family and friends
(Matthew 10:37). He isn’t merely warning against
idolatry, but He’s also telling us how to fully enjoy
our close relationships. When we love others more
than God, we inevitably ask more from them than what they can deliver. Our
neediness will eventually suffocate them and our relationship.

Jesus said that whatever we cling to we will lose, but “if you give up your life
for Me, you will find it” (v.39). As the saying goes, “If you love someone, set
them free”—in God. —Mike Wittmer

more›
Read Philippians 3:7-8
to see Paul’s comparison
between knowing Jesus
Christ and knowing
anything else.

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Flying Fish

2011-02-10T11:19:00.001-06:00

Daily Devotional, February 10, 2011

Flying Fish

read›
Exodus 16:1-18
Each family had just
what it needed (v.18).

The residents of Lajamanu, a remote Australian
town, received a fishy gift last summer. Hundreds
of small spangled perch dropped from the sky!
Meteorologists believe the fish were sucked up into the
clouds by a storm. “It could have scooped the fish up to
40,000 to 50,000 feet in the air. Once they get up into
the system they [were] pretty much frozen. After some
period they [were] released,” said a weather expert.
Surprisingly, Lajamanu has been bombarded by flying
(frozen) fish twice before—in 1974 and 2004.

A month after being miraculously delivered from
Egypt, the Israelites were looking for a nice, fresh fish
dinner—or something fresh to eat (Exodus 16:1-3). The
wilderness didn’t allow for much, shall we say, delicious
cuisine. God knew what His people needed, and He
told Moses that He would “rain down food from heaven”
(v.4). And that’s just what He did!

God provided His complaining people with bread in
the morning and meat in the evening (v.12). But, instead
of fish, God gave them “vast numbers of quail [that] flew
in and covered the camp” (v.13). So the Israelites had
some tasty fowl to consume. In fact, “Each family had
just what it needed” (v.18).

Why would God give His people simply what they
needed and no more? He was teaching them to trust in
Him alone and not in their own means. He was teaching
them about real faith. Jesus reflected the same faith-building way of life in the Lord’s
Prayer, telling His disciples to pray, “Give us today the food we need” (Matt. 6:11).
Are you content with what God has provided for you today? If not, it’s time
to take a fresh look at your faith. God wants us to depend on Him for our daily
provision—not the frozen fish in the freezer. —Tom Felten

more›
Numbers 11:31-35
presents an account
of falling quail. Why
did God discipline His
people? How can you
avoid following their
sinful behavior?

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A Gift For Jesus

2011-02-10T11:16:00.001-06:00

Daily Devotional, February 09, 2011

A Gift For Jesus

read›
Mark 14:3-9
Wherever the Good News is preached
throughout the world, this woman’s deed will
be remembered and discussed (v.9).

Consider this situation: Someone you deeply
love is dying. Doctors tell you that this could be
his last week of life. You want to do something
memorable and meaningful for him. What would it be?
At a dinner held to honor Jesus (John 12:2), Mary
anointed Him with expensive perfume made from essence
of nard (or spikenard)—a special plant that grew only
in the Himalayas of India. Mary’s perfume cost the
equivalent of a whole year’s salary for a laborer in
ancient Israel (Mark 14:5). In the Song of Solomon (1:12
and 4:13), nard symbolizes the sweet aroma worn by a
bride, drawing her husband to her. Some Bible teachers
believe that the perfume Mary was using to annoint
Jesus was her personal dowry—a treasure she had been
keeping for her own wedding. It was her most precious
possession.

Mary’s generous gift to Jesus invoked strong negative
responses. Some dinner guests rebuked her harshly
(vv.4-5). But Jesus commended her. For Mary had done a
“beautiful” thing (v.6 NIV). She had placed the perfume on
Jesus to prepare Him for His death (v.8). Leading up to this
time, He had often said that He would be betrayed, killed,
buried, and that He would rise again. His disciples didn’t
believe Him, for they didn’t want it to happen (Mark 8:31-
33, 9:31-32). But Mary had been listening to Jesus (Luke
10:39-42). Believing His words, she lovingly ministered to
Him in His last week before He went to the cross.

The expensive perfume was Mary’s funeral gift to Jesus. She gave her very best
to honor Him. Today, we’re part of Jesus’ fulfilled prophecy—we’re remembering
what Mary did at that dinner (Mark 14:9).

If you were in Mary’s place, what would you have done for Jesus? What
“perfume” would you have given to honor Him? —K.T. Sim

Read Romans 12:1, to
learn the appropriate gift
for you to give to Jesus
for all He’s done for you.

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Feel

2011-02-08T12:33:00.001-06:00

Daily Devotional, February 07, 2011

Feel

read›
Proverbs 3:1-8
We don’t know what God wants us to pray
for. But the Holy Spirit prays for us with
groanings that cannot be expressed in words
(Romans 8:26).

My friend has a habit of asking God for signs. In
doing so, His prayers tend to seek confirmation
of his feelings, as in “God, if You want me to
do ‘X,’ then please do ‘Y,’ and I’ll know it’s OK.”
Not surprisingly, this has created a dilemma. For my
friend feels that he should get back with his ex-girlfriend,
based on the way he prays. His ex, on the other hand,
feels strongly that God has told them not to get back
together. Ah, feelings.

Jesus told the religious leaders of His day: “Only an
evil, adulterous generation would demand a miraculous
sign” (Matthew 16:4). But He wasn’t making a blanket
statement to prevent anyone from seeking God’s
guidance. Rather, Jesus was accusing them of ignoring
the clear prophecies that told them He was the Messiah.

Proverbs gives us an abundance of direct signs as to
how to live our lives. Solomon, who wrote most verses
in the book, gave these instructions to his son: “Never
let loyalty and kindness leave you” (3:3). “Trust in the
Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own
understanding” (v.5). To drive his point home, Solomon
concluded: “Don’t be impressed with your own wisdom.
Instead, fear the Lord and turn away from evil” (v.7).
God wants us to seek His guidance in prayer
(James 1:5). He has given us the instruction of the Holy
Spirit (John 14:26) and His Word, the Bible
(1 Thessalonians 2:13). He gives us mentors and wise leaders. He’s also given
us the ultimate example seen in Jesus (Philippians 2:4-5).

It’s wise to ask God for clear direction. But our prayers should never be
formulaic attempts to manipulate God. Real Christianity is not a system; it’s a
relationship with Jesus Himself. —Tim Gustafson

more›
Read Romans 8:1-17
to learn about the Holy
Spirit’s role in guiding
our lives and decisions.
In Matthew 16:1-4, what
do you think is the “sign
of Jonah”? (v.4).

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Training Daze

2011-02-08T12:30:00.001-06:00

Daily Devotional, February 08, 2011

Training Daze

read›
1 Kings 17:7-16
Then the Lord said to Elijah, “Go and live in
the village of Zarephath, near the city of Sidon. I
have instructed a widow there to feed you” (vv.8-9).

After graduation from college, I worked for an

Sometimes I couldn’t even afford my next meal.
During that time, my mother became sick. I felt awful not
being able to help pay for her hospital expenses. It was
one trial after another, and each new trial was harder
than the previous one.

In 1 Kings 17, we find God training Elijah. By the
waters of Kerith, God used ravens to bring Elijah his
daily meals. But as the drought persisted, the babbling
brook became a silent stream, and then it slowed to a
mere trickle.

We read: “But after a while the brook dried up . . .
then the Lord said to Elijah” (vv.7-8). Often we would
rather have God show us the next step before our
resources are totally depleted. Waiting can be nerveracking.
It can be frustrating. But this is all part of the
training process. We need to learn that we’re dependent
on God, and Him alone. We need to learn that when
our comfort zone is compromised, God is still in control.
Elijah was told by God, “Go and live in the village
of Zarephath, near the city of Sidon. I have instructed
a widow there to feed you” (v.9). Zarephath was
enemy territory. Why would anyone offer Elijah shelter,
especially a widow? They were often the poorest of the
poor! Everything God told Elijah to do defied man’s
wisdom; it demanded trust. God was training His servant to walk by faith, not
by sight (2 Corinthians 5:7).

He learned the lesson reflected in these lyrics: “Now I can see testing comes
from above, God strengthens His children and purges in love. My Father knows
best, and I trust in His care; through purging, more fruit I will bear.” Are you
ready for God’s training? —Poh Fang Chia

more›
Read John 15:2 to
discover why, according
to Jesus, God prunes us.

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Resolved

2011-02-04T10:44:00.001-06:00

Daily Devotional, February 04, 2011

Resolved

read›
1 Peter 3:8-18
Turn away from evil and do good. Search
for peace, and work to maintain it (v.11).

Checking the texting inbox on my phone, I understood
my friend’s frustration when I read her message:
“I am sick of unresolved conflict!! I can’t take it
anymore!” Ironically, our Bible study the night before
had been on peace. As I thought about her situation—
and some of my own—I was reminded how easily
conflict can arise and how difficult resolution can be.
In a world full of conflict, God’s Word stands in stark
contrast with its reminders that “God blesses those
who work for peace” (Matthew 5:9), and ”those who
are peacemakers will plant seeds of peace and reap
a harvest of righteousness” (James 3:18). Peter told his
audience to be humble and loving, choosing to end
conflicts by paying people “back with a blessing”
(1 Peter 3:8-9). Peacekeeping and peacemaking are
similar in many ways, and yet different. The primary
emphasis in keeping peace is to maintain it by
enforcement or supervision (v.11; Hebrews 12:14).

Making peace, however, means getting to the root
of the issue. Colossians 1:20 teaches that for us to be
reconciled to God, our sin can be removed only through
the work of the cross (1 Peter 3:18). Peace comes with
a price. To make peace also means we have to be
content to lose control. Isaiah 26:3 reminds us, “You will
keep in perfect peace all who trust in You, all whose
thoughts are fixed on You.” We can’t always make our
circumstances or relationships peaceful, but we can find personal peace by:
• Recognizing that our peace is not measured by others’ choices, but by our
own (Romans 12:18).

• Growing in our relationship with the God of all peace (2 Peter 1:2).
Peace will not be found in what we can maneuver to bring us comfort, but in
what we surrender to God. —Regina Franklin

more›
Read John 14:26-27 to
find out the role of the
Holy Spirit in bringing
real peace to your heart.

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No Guide

2011-02-04T10:37:00.001-06:00

Daily Devotional, February 03, 2011

No Guide

read›
Jeremiah 2:1-13
My people have done two evil things: They
have abandoned Me—the fountain of
living water. And they have dug for themselves
cracked cisterns that can hold no water at all!
(v.13).

Each week around the world, 10 million Girl Guides
(or Girl Scouts) learn how to cook, knit, survive
in the wilderness, and generally become good
citizens. A girl becomes a Guide by making the Guide
Promise—a pledge of duty to God, country, and the
Guide Law.

In recent years, there’s been discussion over the
wording of the Promise, as a Canadian case illustrates. A
Canadian Guide once pledged to “do my duty to God,
the Queen, and my country.” In 1994, this was changed
to “be true to myself, my God/faith, and Canada,” and in
2010 it was revised to “be true to myself, my beliefs, and
Canada.” The changes reflect an understandable desire
to be inclusive in a pluralistic society. But one can’t escape
the obvious: a promise to self has replaced a promise to
God. I often wonder how God feels about such headlines.
“What did your ancestors find wrong with Me?” God
once said through the prophet Jeremiah (Jeremiah 2:5).
In her youth, Israel had been devoted to God—eager to
keep her bridal promise; valiantly following Him through
the wilderness (vv.2-3). Then the love cooled. Israel no
longer cared for God, nor did her priests, scribes, and
prophets (vv.6-8). In fact, she replaced Him with human engineered
replicas (vv.11-12). Her promise to God was
transferred to an idol.

“They have abandoned me—the fountain of living
water,” God cried out in poetic fashion. “And they have dug for themselves
cracked cisterns that can hold no water at all!” (v.13). Here’s the tragic irony:
Self-made replacements for the Source of life can only leave us dry and empty.
The change in the Canadian Guides’ Promise is symptomatic of a broader
trend. When spiritual thirst overwhelms us, may we pledge ourselves again to
the God of our youth. —Sheridan Voysey

more›
Read Jeremiah 31:9 for a
picture of a thirsty people
returning to God. Read
John 4:10-14 for a fresh
vision of Jesus as living
water.

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Dirty Jobs

2011-02-04T10:32:00.001-06:00

Daily Devotional, February 02, 2011

Dirty Jobs

read›
Colossians 3:22–4:1
Work willingly at
whatever you do,
as though you were
working for the Lord
rather than for people
(v.23).

Spencer Johnson, author of Who Moved My
Cheese? stated in an article: “I believe research
may one day show that the only long-lasting
motivation will come from employees who bring it to
work in the form of God, spirituality, or something
else that causes them to rise to a higher purpose.”
Long before Dr. Johnson came to that conclusion, the
apostle Paul said that slaves (employees) and masters
(employers) should be motivated by a higher purpose in
their jobs—their relationship with Jesus.
In Colossians 3:22–4:1, Paul discussed three important
aspects of work—mandate, manner, and motivation.
Employees have the mandate to obey their bosses out
of reverence for Christ (3:22). The manner in which
they obey flows from a sincere heart and with a right
attitude. Paul wrote, “Work willingly at whatever you
do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than
for people” (v.23). Employees can overcome the lack of
motivation in their work and accept new responsibilities
without a negative reaction by focusing on their true
motivation: working for Jesus (v.24).
Paul also addressed the actions of employers. They
should treat their employees with fairness and justice as
they honor their Master in heaven (4:1; Philemon 16).
As followers of Jesus who work in the marketplace,
we’re called to rise to a higher purpose in our jobs. If we’re
employees, unless we know a task is sinful, we should do the job we were hired to
do—every task, every workday. Even if our jobs are dirty or seem to lack meaning,
we should perform them with excellence and the right attitude. If we’re employers,
we should create fair and just environments out of our reverence and love for Jesus.
In both roles, we’re missionaries on assignment—representing the Master.
—Marvin Williams

more›
Read 1 Timothy 6:1-2
and Titus 2:9-10 to see
more characteristics
of a Christ-honoring
employee.

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God's Friend

2011-02-01T10:00:00.001-06:00

Daily Devotional, January 31, 2011

God's Friend

read›
Genesis 18:16-19
The Lord is a friend to those who fear Him
(Psalm 25:14).

If I were to tell you that the president of your country
is my friend, it’s likely you wouldn’t believe me. You
might even be tempted to call me a liar. But if your
president were to go on national TV and say publicly
that I’m his friend, then all doubts would fade away,
right? The facts would back up my claim.

Now, what if I told you that God is my friend? Let’s
check the facts, starting with the reality that God once
called Abraham “My friend” (Isaiah 41:8; see also
2 Chronicles 20:7; James 2:23). God said of Abraham,
“I have singled him out” (Genesis 18:19). Other Bible
translations render this as “I have chosen him” (NIV)
or “I have known him” (NKJV). These words speak of
divine election, of covenantal love, and of grace. Bible
commentator H. C. Leupold translated the phrase this
way: “For I acknowledge Him to be My intimate friend.”
A friend is someone with whom we aren’t afraid to
share our true struggles and intimate secrets. Friends
listen as we share our pain. When we have a problem,
to whom do we turn? Our closest friend. Amazingly,
when God had a burden, He shared it with His friend
Abraham (v.17).

You and I enjoy the same covenantal relationship with
God as the one Abraham experienced. We’ve been
chosen by God to be in His family (Ephesians 1:4-7).
And we’re chosen by Jesus to be His friend. For He said,
“You are My friends if you do what I command. . . . Now you are My friends,
since I have told you everything the Father told Me. You didn’t choose Me. I
chose you” (John 15:14-16).

Your very best friend is Jesus. Even if others let you down, He will be “with
you always” (Matthew 28:20). —K.T. Sim

more›
According to John 15:12-
17, what did Jesus do for
you, His friend?

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A Time To Learn

2011-01-29T10:02:00.001-06:00

Daily Devotional, January 28, 2011

A Time To Learn

2 Peter 1:3-11
Work hard to prove that you really are among
those God has called and chosen. Do these
things, and you will never fall away (v.10).

A video on GodTube captured a mother squirrel
trying to teach her baby how to scale a cement
wall. Over and over the mother squirrel patiently
showed how it was done, but the wall was simply too
big for the younger rodent to conquer.

Eventually, a few college students intervened. They first
placed a backpack up against the wall, hoping it would
function as a step for the younger squirrel. But it wasn’t
tall enough. Next, they made a higher step by placing
a couple of sandbags on top of one another. Finally the
little squirrel climbed on top of the sandbags and scaled
the daunting wall— having learned a valuable survival
lesson.

This little drama from the animal kingdom reminds me
of how God often deals with us. One of the reasons He
doesn’t instantly resolve our struggles or take us out of
seemingly insurmountable challenges is because they
provide valuable learning experiences. For instance,
after He brought Pharaoh to his knees through a series
of crippling plagues (Exodus 12:31-32), God didn’t pack
the Israelites’ bags and march them out of Egypt. They
had to do it themselves, learning the valuable lesson that
faith and effort often go hand in hand.

Too often the Christian walk is seen as believers
sitting back and letting God do everything for us. That’s
rarely the case. While God is always God, and we
can do nothing apart from Him (John 15:5), He’s not going to do all the work.
Sometimes He will provide a “backpack” or a “sandbag,” but He knows there
are lessons for us to learn through effort that will make us better in the long run.
—Jeff Olson

more›
Work hard to show the
results of your salvation,
obeying God with deep
reverence and fear
(Philippians 2:12).

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Power Failure

2011-01-29T09:59:00.000-06:00

Daily Devotional - January 27, 2011

Power Failure

1 Samuel 13:5-14

Your kingdom must end, for the Lord has sought
out a man after His own heart. The Lord has
already appointed him to be the leader of His
people, because you have not kept the Lord’s
command (v.14).

An impromptu high-wire act by a 26-year-old man
caused a portion of Dongguan, a city in China,to experience a blackout.

The man had lost his job and chose to drown his sorrows by drinking heavily.
After his binge, the drunken one climbed a high voltage
cable tower and began walking and hanging on the
power cables. When firemen couldn’t coax him down,
they ordered the electricity to be shut off so he wouldn’t
electrocute himself. Four hours later, the guy finally fell
. . . landing softly on a safety cushion where he was
“greeted” by police.

King Saul once had a power surge (1 Samuel 10:6), but
he lost it all due to a rash decision. In the span of just four
chapters, we find the prophet Samuel anointing Saul as
Israel’s king (13:1) and then informing him that God had
rejected him as ruler of His people (v.14). Why the abrupt
change? Samuel made it plain to Saul: “Because you
have not kept the Lord’s command.”

The command was clear. Samuel told Saul to camp out
at Gilgal for a week until he arrived there to “sacrifice
burnt offerings and peace offerings” (10:8). But the king
got uptight when the mighty Philistine army with “as many
warriors as the grains of sand on the seashore” (13:5)
caused his army to begin “trembling with fear” (v.7).
With his army defecting and growing smaller by the
hour, Saul (literally) chose to play with fire and did the
burnt offering himself (v.9). That’s when Samuel caught him red-hot-handed and
gave him the bad news—his days on the throne were numbered.
Have you been tempted to make a rash decision—one that doesn’t honor God?

Fear can cause us to short-circuit our faith and future. Let’s choose to obey God
instead. He’s got all the power we need. —Tom Felten

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If once wasn’t enough,
later Saul disobeyed
another divine command
(ch.15). Read verse 22
to learn what Samuel
told the fallen king about
what God truly values.

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Follow Jesus...On Twitter

2011-01-24T22:57:00.001-06:00

Daily Devotional, January 24, 2011

Follow Jesus...On Twitter

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Mark 1:16-20
Jesus called out to them, “Come, follow Me, and
I will show you how to fish for people!” (v.17).

Jesus has His own Twitter account. Well, actually,
hundreds of them. Search for “Jesus Christ” on the
social networking site, and you’ll find a plethora of
twitterers all tweeting in His name—some well-meaning
and many blasphemous. The most popular “Jesus” on
Twitter has over 34,000 followers!

Hmmm. Would the real Jesus use Twitter? I wonder.
“Follow me,” Jesus said to those first disciples (Mark
1:17). Unlike the rabbis of His day, Jesus wasn’t looking
simply for students—people who would sit at His feet
and ponder the law. And although it was His core
message to others (vv.14-15), Jesus didn’t even call
Simon, Andrew, James, and John to “repent.” He called
them to follow. This was a greater call than mere belief.
“I will show you how to fish for people!” Jesus added
(v.17). He had a vision for them, a calling that would
change their identity—no longer “fishermen” but “fishersof-
men.” This was a call to change.

“And they left their nets at once and followed Him”
(v.18). Jesus’ call claimed priority even over the disciples’
livelihood. This call would reorder their economic lives.
While crowds flocked to Jesus to receive healing
(3:7-10), such people were not His disciples. Demons
fell prostrate at His feet, but they certainly weren’t
His followers (v.11). To follow Jesus meant giving up
everything to do the will of God (3:35; Luke 14:33).

Would the real Jesus use Twitter? I don’t know. I do know that following the
real Jesus means surrendering our dreams, jobs, identities, and finances to Him
and choosing His plans for us (Matthew 22:37-39).
That’s not something you can do by simply pushing a button.
—Sheridan Voysey

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“Follow Me and be
My disciple,” Jesus said
to him. So Levi got up and
followed Him
(Mark 2:13-14).

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