Date: September 30, 2009 9:41 PM
Topic: +DEV+ Q – Quickened by Christ
Q – Quickened by Christ
“When you were dead in your sins and in the uncircumcision of your sinful nature, God made you alive with Christ. He forgave us all our sins.” (Colossians 2:13)
Scripture Focus: Colossians 1:9-23
“Sudden death” is a very serious complication of a heart attack—when the elaborate electrical system of the heart is disturbed, creating a rapid but ineffective beat. With proper skill and equipment, an emergency medical team can reverse “sudden death,” but only within the first few minutes.
What satisfaction and relief it can bring when someone is thus “quickened”—restored to life again. But our medical intervention only postpones the inevitable for some minutes, hours, or years. Unless we are alive when Christ returns for His own, we all die physically.
Being quickened by God means we are made alive in Christ spiritually from the moment of our new birth. We have spiritual life now—a new capacity to enjoy fellowship with God. We are enabled to know Him, love Him, and choose to serve Him. “Because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive [quickened us, KJV] with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions” (Ephesians 2:4-7).
Insight: Make a deliberate choice today to give the Lord the control of your mind, your emotions, and your will.
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Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
+DEV+ P – Power of God
Date: September 29, 2009 10:02 PM
Topic: +DEV+ P – Power of God
P – Power of God
“He saved them for his name’s sake, to make his mighty power known. He rebuked the Red Sea, and it dried up; he led them through the depths as through a desert.” (Psalm 106:8-9)
Scripture Focus: Exodus 14
Question: How wide was the Red Sea parted in the Exodus?
Answer: wide enough to let all the Israelites plus their animals cross in one night.
We know from Numbers 2:32-33 that 600,000 fighting men (age 20 and over, fit for battle) left Egypt in the Exodus with Moses. Most of these men would be married; this doubles the figure. Allowing an average of four children per couple makes a total of 3.5 million, not counting the elderly. Some scholars estimate that 6 or 7 million Hebrews had to cross the Red Sea.
If 3.5 million people would march two abreast it would take them 35 days and nights to cross. Because they were leaden with the wealth of Egypt showered on them at departure and were more of a mob than organized, I believe they went at least 50,000 abreast. If so, the Red Sea had to be parted at least 10 miles wide for them all to cross in one night. No wonder the Bible so often refers back to God’s mighty miracle of taking His people through the Red Sea. What a mighty God we serve!
Insight: If God could perform the miracle of parting the Red Sea, He surely can handle the biggest burden you are carrying today. Trust His power to work in your behalf.
To subscribe to this Devotional list send an email to daily_devotions@embarqmail.com with “subscribe-daily devotionals” in the subject line and I will be honored to add your email address to this list.
Topic: +DEV+ P – Power of God
P – Power of God
“He saved them for his name’s sake, to make his mighty power known. He rebuked the Red Sea, and it dried up; he led them through the depths as through a desert.” (Psalm 106:8-9)
Scripture Focus: Exodus 14
Question: How wide was the Red Sea parted in the Exodus?
Answer: wide enough to let all the Israelites plus their animals cross in one night.
We know from Numbers 2:32-33 that 600,000 fighting men (age 20 and over, fit for battle) left Egypt in the Exodus with Moses. Most of these men would be married; this doubles the figure. Allowing an average of four children per couple makes a total of 3.5 million, not counting the elderly. Some scholars estimate that 6 or 7 million Hebrews had to cross the Red Sea.
If 3.5 million people would march two abreast it would take them 35 days and nights to cross. Because they were leaden with the wealth of Egypt showered on them at departure and were more of a mob than organized, I believe they went at least 50,000 abreast. If so, the Red Sea had to be parted at least 10 miles wide for them all to cross in one night. No wonder the Bible so often refers back to God’s mighty miracle of taking His people through the Red Sea. What a mighty God we serve!
Insight: If God could perform the miracle of parting the Red Sea, He surely can handle the biggest burden you are carrying today. Trust His power to work in your behalf.
To subscribe to this Devotional list send an email to daily_devotions@embarqmail.com with “subscribe-daily devotionals” in the subject line and I will be honored to add your email address to this list.
Monday, September 28, 2009
+DEV+ P – Peace with God
Date: September 28, 2009 9:23 PM
Topic: +DEV+ P – Peace with God
P – Peace with God
“Be anxious for nothing . . . let your requests be made known to God, and the peace of God . . . will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6-7)
Scripture Focus: Psalm 37:1-11
As a young man, Dr. Bruce K. Waltke, a great Hebrew scholar and teacher, had been accepted for the military chaplaincy and was awaiting his orders to appear for swearing in ceremonies. The closer the day came for the expected telegram, the more troubled he became. He felt that he had applied for the position primarily for the security it offered.
What could he do? To proceed would be to increase his uneasiness regarding God’s plans for his future. Not to proceed, however, would be to break his commitment to Washington. After turning the situation over to God’s caring power, Dr. Waltke received a letter, indicating that the next Friday would bring a telegram with his orders.
The telegram did come, but only to announce that his file had been lost. If he was still interested in the chaplaincy, he would have to reapply! Dr. Waltke’s brilliant career has confirmed that his gifts were best suited for research and teaching.
Having peace with God, we should also experience the peace of God.
Insight: Trust God to give you His peace today as you quietly commit to Him all your concerns.
To subscribe to this Devotional list send an email to daily_devotions@embarqmail.com with “subscribe-daily devotionals” in the subject line and I will be honored to add your email address to this list.
Topic: +DEV+ P – Peace with God
P – Peace with God
“Be anxious for nothing . . . let your requests be made known to God, and the peace of God . . . will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6-7)
Scripture Focus: Psalm 37:1-11
As a young man, Dr. Bruce K. Waltke, a great Hebrew scholar and teacher, had been accepted for the military chaplaincy and was awaiting his orders to appear for swearing in ceremonies. The closer the day came for the expected telegram, the more troubled he became. He felt that he had applied for the position primarily for the security it offered.
What could he do? To proceed would be to increase his uneasiness regarding God’s plans for his future. Not to proceed, however, would be to break his commitment to Washington. After turning the situation over to God’s caring power, Dr. Waltke received a letter, indicating that the next Friday would bring a telegram with his orders.
The telegram did come, but only to announce that his file had been lost. If he was still interested in the chaplaincy, he would have to reapply! Dr. Waltke’s brilliant career has confirmed that his gifts were best suited for research and teaching.
Having peace with God, we should also experience the peace of God.
Insight: Trust God to give you His peace today as you quietly commit to Him all your concerns.
To subscribe to this Devotional list send an email to daily_devotions@embarqmail.com with “subscribe-daily devotionals” in the subject line and I will be honored to add your email address to this list.
Sunday, September 27, 2009
+DEV+ O – Owned by God
Date: September 27, 2009 10:23 PM
Topic: +DEV+ O – Owned by God
O – Owned by God
“Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit . . . and that you are not your own? For you have been bought with a price.” (1 Corinthians 6:19-20).
Scripture Focus: Psalm 139
As a nurse in critical care, Karen saw many difficult situations. One patient whom she can never forget was Barb, a beautiful 19-year-old who had sustained a severe head injury in an auto accident. At first everyone was optimistic about her recovery. But as days wore into weeks and she didn’t awaken from her coma, the medical team gave up hope. Karen felt so keenly for Barb’s parents that she feared breaking down when she talked with them.
Many believers were praying for Barb’s recovery. Her situation seemed so pathetic as Karen cared for her night after night that she eventually prayed silently, “Lord, spare her dear parents. Please let her die.”
How grateful Karen is now that God answered her desire but denied her specific request. For after about a year, Barb did wake up and blossomed once again as a beautiful young lady with a strong Christian testimony.
Believers are bought by Christ’s blood to be God’s special possession. Inherent in God’s ownership is the right to do as He pleases for His glory.
Insight: Let God have the freedom to be God by trusting Him to do what is best in those situations which are beyond your understanding or control.
To subscribe to this Devotional list send an email to daily_devotions@embarqmail.com with “subscribe-daily devotionals” in the subject line and I will be honored to add your email address to this list.
Topic: +DEV+ O – Owned by God
O – Owned by God
“Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit . . . and that you are not your own? For you have been bought with a price.” (1 Corinthians 6:19-20).
Scripture Focus: Psalm 139
As a nurse in critical care, Karen saw many difficult situations. One patient whom she can never forget was Barb, a beautiful 19-year-old who had sustained a severe head injury in an auto accident. At first everyone was optimistic about her recovery. But as days wore into weeks and she didn’t awaken from her coma, the medical team gave up hope. Karen felt so keenly for Barb’s parents that she feared breaking down when she talked with them.
Many believers were praying for Barb’s recovery. Her situation seemed so pathetic as Karen cared for her night after night that she eventually prayed silently, “Lord, spare her dear parents. Please let her die.”
How grateful Karen is now that God answered her desire but denied her specific request. For after about a year, Barb did wake up and blossomed once again as a beautiful young lady with a strong Christian testimony.
Believers are bought by Christ’s blood to be God’s special possession. Inherent in God’s ownership is the right to do as He pleases for His glory.
Insight: Let God have the freedom to be God by trusting Him to do what is best in those situations which are beyond your understanding or control.
To subscribe to this Devotional list send an email to daily_devotions@embarqmail.com with “subscribe-daily devotionals” in the subject line and I will be honored to add your email address to this list.
Thursday, September 24, 2009
+DEV+ N – New Creation
Date: September 24, 2009 10:34 PM
Topic: +DEV+ N – New Creation
N – New Creation
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!” (2 Corinthians 5:17)
Scripture Focus: Psalm 119:9-16
Words—18,000 words a day is the average person’s volume of utterances, the equivalent of a 50-page book! In one year most of us will have said enough to fill 66 books, each about 800 pages long.
Are you happy with your speech? With your thoughts? With your relationship to God? How can our talk, thoughts, and actions be more as God would desire them to be?
If we are in Christ, we are “a new creation”—that’s our position. But we are also commanded to be “transformed by the renewing of your mind” (Romans 12:2).
Our minds are somewhat like icebergs, the conscious part being the smallest. The largest part of our minds is the subconscious. Though we cannot recall at will all we have experienced through our five senses, it is all indelibly recorded in our subconscious minds, ready to respond to stimuli before we can consciously think about it.
Ask the Lord to help you evaluate what you are feeding your mind today.
Insight: The Scriptures are the only effective mind cleanser. Proper care of our minds calls for a regular intake of God’s Word.
To subscribe to this Devotional list send an email to daily_devotions@embarqmail.com with “subscribe-daily devotionals” in the subject line and I will be honored to add your email address to this list.
Topic: +DEV+ N – New Creation
N – New Creation
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!” (2 Corinthians 5:17)
Scripture Focus: Psalm 119:9-16
Words—18,000 words a day is the average person’s volume of utterances, the equivalent of a 50-page book! In one year most of us will have said enough to fill 66 books, each about 800 pages long.
Are you happy with your speech? With your thoughts? With your relationship to God? How can our talk, thoughts, and actions be more as God would desire them to be?
If we are in Christ, we are “a new creation”—that’s our position. But we are also commanded to be “transformed by the renewing of your mind” (Romans 12:2).
Our minds are somewhat like icebergs, the conscious part being the smallest. The largest part of our minds is the subconscious. Though we cannot recall at will all we have experienced through our five senses, it is all indelibly recorded in our subconscious minds, ready to respond to stimuli before we can consciously think about it.
Ask the Lord to help you evaluate what you are feeding your mind today.
Insight: The Scriptures are the only effective mind cleanser. Proper care of our minds calls for a regular intake of God’s Word.
To subscribe to this Devotional list send an email to daily_devotions@embarqmail.com with “subscribe-daily devotionals” in the subject line and I will be honored to add your email address to this list.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
+DEV+ M – Member of Christ’s Body
Date: September 23, 2009 10:15 PM
Topic: +DEV+ M – Member of Christ’s Body
M – Member of Christ’s Body
“We are members of his body” (Ephesians 5:30).“In Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.” (Romans 12:5)
Scripture Focus: Hebrews 10:23-25
When Christ ascended from earth to heaven, He sent His Holy Spirit to form a unique body of believers called the church. Christ is the heavenly Head of His earthly body.
As a deep-sea diver depends on those in the ship above him who control his life-support systems, so we depend on Christ. From Him flows every provision needed for victory over sin and for our ministry in the world.
As His body, we are His instruments of expression on the earth. He has no hands but our hands, no feet but ours. Our hands and feet must become His, swift to do His bidding. A local church is to be a place for worship of God, instruction in the Scriptures, fellowship with others believers, and an avenue of service for God and humankind. Believers are expressly exhorted not to forsake the assembling of themselves together. You and I need the church, and the church needs us. To regularly attend worship services is a decision we have to make and a good habit to build.
Insight: Thank the Lord for making His body of believers the place where you can be instructed and encouraged.
To subscribe to this Devotional list send an email to daily_devotions@embarqmail.com with “subscribe-daily devotionals” in the subject line and I will be honored to add your email address to this list.
Topic: +DEV+ M – Member of Christ’s Body
M – Member of Christ’s Body
“We are members of his body” (Ephesians 5:30).“In Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.” (Romans 12:5)
Scripture Focus: Hebrews 10:23-25
When Christ ascended from earth to heaven, He sent His Holy Spirit to form a unique body of believers called the church. Christ is the heavenly Head of His earthly body.
As a deep-sea diver depends on those in the ship above him who control his life-support systems, so we depend on Christ. From Him flows every provision needed for victory over sin and for our ministry in the world.
As His body, we are His instruments of expression on the earth. He has no hands but our hands, no feet but ours. Our hands and feet must become His, swift to do His bidding. A local church is to be a place for worship of God, instruction in the Scriptures, fellowship with others believers, and an avenue of service for God and humankind. Believers are expressly exhorted not to forsake the assembling of themselves together. You and I need the church, and the church needs us. To regularly attend worship services is a decision we have to make and a good habit to build.
Insight: Thank the Lord for making His body of believers the place where you can be instructed and encouraged.
To subscribe to this Devotional list send an email to daily_devotions@embarqmail.com with “subscribe-daily devotionals” in the subject line and I will be honored to add your email address to this list.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
+DEV+ M – Marriage to Christ
Date: September 22, 2009 9:55 PM
Topic: +DEV+ M – Marriage to Christ
M – Marriage to Christ
“Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her . . . to present her to himself as a radiant church, without stain or wrinkle . . . but holy and blameless.” (Ephesians 5:25, 27)
Scripture Focus: Revelation 21:1-22:7
The relationship between Christ and His church is pictured as that of a bridegroom seeking the best for his bride.
“Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word, and to present her to himself as a radiant church, without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless. In this same way, husbands ought to love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself. After all, no one ever hated his own body, but he feeds and cares for it, just as Christ does the church—for we are members of his body. . . . This is a profound mystery—but I am talking about Christ and the church” (Ephesians 5:25-32).
Christ is committed to the perfection of His bride, the church. He will continue His good work until the church is one day completely transformed and safely joined to Him in heaven.
May He help us grasp the reality of His great love for us.
Insight: Ask Christ to help you show others the difference it makes in a person’s life to live in the reality of His great love.
To subscribe to this Devotional list send an email to daily_devotions@embarqmail.com with “subscribe-daily devotionals” in the subject line and I will be honored to add your email address to this list.
Topic: +DEV+ M – Marriage to Christ
M – Marriage to Christ
“Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her . . . to present her to himself as a radiant church, without stain or wrinkle . . . but holy and blameless.” (Ephesians 5:25, 27)
Scripture Focus: Revelation 21:1-22:7
The relationship between Christ and His church is pictured as that of a bridegroom seeking the best for his bride.
“Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word, and to present her to himself as a radiant church, without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless. In this same way, husbands ought to love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself. After all, no one ever hated his own body, but he feeds and cares for it, just as Christ does the church—for we are members of his body. . . . This is a profound mystery—but I am talking about Christ and the church” (Ephesians 5:25-32).
Christ is committed to the perfection of His bride, the church. He will continue His good work until the church is one day completely transformed and safely joined to Him in heaven.
May He help us grasp the reality of His great love for us.
Insight: Ask Christ to help you show others the difference it makes in a person’s life to live in the reality of His great love.
To subscribe to this Devotional list send an email to daily_devotions@embarqmail.com with “subscribe-daily devotionals” in the subject line and I will be honored to add your email address to this list.
Monday, September 21, 2009
+DEV+ L – Life Abundant
Date: September 21, 2009 9:39 PM
Topic: +DEV+ L – Life Abundant
L – Life Abundant
“The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not be in want” (Psalm 23:1).
“I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full” (John 10:10).
Scripture Focus: Psalm 23
Psalm 23 summarizes some of the abundant life the Shepherd of our souls provides for us, the sheep of His pasture. Because He is your Shepherd, you will not need or lack:
Rest —for He makes you lie down in green pastures.
Guidance —for He leads you beside the still waters.
Renewal —for He restores your soul.
Direction —for He leads you in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake.
Peace —for though you walk through the valley of the shadow of death you will fear no evil.
Companionship —for He is with you.
Comfort —for His rod and His staff comfort you.
Refreshment —for He prepares a table before you in the presence of your enemies.
Joy —for He anoints your head with oil.
Abundance—for your cup runs over.
Blessing —for surely goodness and mercy shall follow you all the days of your life.
Eternal life —for you will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.
Insight: How can you respond to such complete, loving care for your every need? The songwriter said it well, “Savior, like a Shepherd lead us, Much we need Thy tender care.”
To subscribe to this Devotional list send an email to daily_devotions@embarqmail.com with “subscribe-daily devotionals” in the subject line and I will be honored to add your email address to this list.
Topic: +DEV+ L – Life Abundant
L – Life Abundant
“The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not be in want” (Psalm 23:1).
“I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full” (John 10:10).
Scripture Focus: Psalm 23
Psalm 23 summarizes some of the abundant life the Shepherd of our souls provides for us, the sheep of His pasture. Because He is your Shepherd, you will not need or lack:
Rest —for He makes you lie down in green pastures.
Guidance —for He leads you beside the still waters.
Renewal —for He restores your soul.
Direction —for He leads you in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake.
Peace —for though you walk through the valley of the shadow of death you will fear no evil.
Companionship —for He is with you.
Comfort —for His rod and His staff comfort you.
Refreshment —for He prepares a table before you in the presence of your enemies.
Joy —for He anoints your head with oil.
Abundance—for your cup runs over.
Blessing —for surely goodness and mercy shall follow you all the days of your life.
Eternal life —for you will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.
Insight: How can you respond to such complete, loving care for your every need? The songwriter said it well, “Savior, like a Shepherd lead us, Much we need Thy tender care.”
To subscribe to this Devotional list send an email to daily_devotions@embarqmail.com with “subscribe-daily devotionals” in the subject line and I will be honored to add your email address to this list.
Sunday, September 20, 2009
+DEV+ K – Kingship and Priesthood
Date: September 20, 2009 11:06 PM
Topic: +DEV+ K – Kingship and Priesthood
K – Kingship and Priesthood
“To him who loves us . . . and has made us to be a kingdom and priests to serve his God and Father—to him be glory and power for ever and ever!” (Revelation 1:5-6)
Scripture Focus: Revelation 1:1-8
Today’s verse, a magnificent benediction of praise to Jesus Christ, is a clear statement of our kingship and priesthood as believers.
Any interpretation of Revelation must admit two truths:
(1) the world’s worst days are still coming, and
(2) the world’s best days are still coming! Open conflict between the forces of good and evil will rage across the earth with disasters and devastation. But in the midst of the world’s biggest battle, the conquering hero, Jesus Christ, will appear to put down all opposition to God and His people. He will establish a perfect kingdom, restoring the world to God’s intended purpose in Creation.
The Bible ends much as it begins, but on a grander note. Instead of two mortals who enjoy fellowship with their Maker, there will be millions! In place of innocent love for God will be those who have chosen to turn from their self-reliance and sin to trust the love of Him who died for them.
God will bring His saints with Him—and they will reign with Christ.
Insight: One thing is certain. Regardless of how Christ’s faithful followers are viewed in today’s society, they are on His winning team. Keep looking up!
To subscribe to this Devotional list send an email to daily_devotions@embarqmail.com with “subscribe-daily devotionals” in the subject line and I will be honored to add your email address to this list.
Topic: +DEV+ K – Kingship and Priesthood
K – Kingship and Priesthood
“To him who loves us . . . and has made us to be a kingdom and priests to serve his God and Father—to him be glory and power for ever and ever!” (Revelation 1:5-6)
Scripture Focus: Revelation 1:1-8
Today’s verse, a magnificent benediction of praise to Jesus Christ, is a clear statement of our kingship and priesthood as believers.
Any interpretation of Revelation must admit two truths:
(1) the world’s worst days are still coming, and
(2) the world’s best days are still coming! Open conflict between the forces of good and evil will rage across the earth with disasters and devastation. But in the midst of the world’s biggest battle, the conquering hero, Jesus Christ, will appear to put down all opposition to God and His people. He will establish a perfect kingdom, restoring the world to God’s intended purpose in Creation.
The Bible ends much as it begins, but on a grander note. Instead of two mortals who enjoy fellowship with their Maker, there will be millions! In place of innocent love for God will be those who have chosen to turn from their self-reliance and sin to trust the love of Him who died for them.
God will bring His saints with Him—and they will reign with Christ.
Insight: One thing is certain. Regardless of how Christ’s faithful followers are viewed in today’s society, they are on His winning team. Keep looking up!
To subscribe to this Devotional list send an email to daily_devotions@embarqmail.com with “subscribe-daily devotionals” in the subject line and I will be honored to add your email address to this list.
Thursday, September 17, 2009
+DEV+ J – Justification
Date: September 17, 2009 11:09 PM
Topic: +DEV+ J – Justification
J – Justification
“Therefore, since we have been justified though faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace.” (Romans 5:1-2)
Scripture Focus: Romans 5:1-11
Everyone has a witness of God’s existence and of righteousness in Creation and in conscience. And the Scriptures are available to most people. But everyone falls short of God’s righteous standards and needs the salvation that only God can provide as a grace-gift. God’s righteousness was satisfied by the death of the perfect Lamb of God. Accepting God’s gift of right standing with Him is called justification, a word we do not use often.
Justification is an accounting term for a simultaneous double transfer. My sin is transferred to Jesus’ cross account; His righteousness is transferred to my heavenly account. Hence, I am considered by God to be “just-as-if-I’d” never sinned.
Note this outline in the Book of Romans:
God’s Journal of Justification:
Justification needed (1:1-3:20)
Justification provided (3:21-4:25)
Justification received (5:1-8:39)
Justification rejected (chapters 9-11)
Justification manifested (chapters 12-16)
Insight: It will take eternity for us to express our unending thanks for what God did when He justified us by His grace.
To subscribe to this Devotional list send an email to daily_devotions@embarqmail.com with “subscribe-daily devotionals” in the subject line and I will be honored to add your email address to this list.
Topic: +DEV+ J – Justification
J – Justification
“Therefore, since we have been justified though faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace.” (Romans 5:1-2)
Scripture Focus: Romans 5:1-11
Everyone has a witness of God’s existence and of righteousness in Creation and in conscience. And the Scriptures are available to most people. But everyone falls short of God’s righteous standards and needs the salvation that only God can provide as a grace-gift. God’s righteousness was satisfied by the death of the perfect Lamb of God. Accepting God’s gift of right standing with Him is called justification, a word we do not use often.
Justification is an accounting term for a simultaneous double transfer. My sin is transferred to Jesus’ cross account; His righteousness is transferred to my heavenly account. Hence, I am considered by God to be “just-as-if-I’d” never sinned.
Note this outline in the Book of Romans:
God’s Journal of Justification:
Justification needed (1:1-3:20)
Justification provided (3:21-4:25)
Justification received (5:1-8:39)
Justification rejected (chapters 9-11)
Justification manifested (chapters 12-16)
Insight: It will take eternity for us to express our unending thanks for what God did when He justified us by His grace.
To subscribe to this Devotional list send an email to daily_devotions@embarqmail.com with “subscribe-daily devotionals” in the subject line and I will be honored to add your email address to this list.
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
+DEV+ I – Inheritance from God
Date: September 16, 2009 11:05 PM
Topic: +DEV+ I – Inheritance from God
I – Inheritance from God
“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ . . . he has given us new birth into a living hope . . . and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil, or fade.” (1 Peter 1:3-4)
Scripture Focus: 1 Peter 1:3-9
Working my way through college gave the Lord many opportunities to supply my needs. He proved Himself faithful. I didn’t miss a meal nor did I owe money to any institution when I graduated.
God’s provisions came in unexpected ways sometimes. Many months after my grandfather died, I received a legal notice that I had been mentioned in his will. But no amount was specified. One day after I had all but forgotten about the matter, I received a check for $1,000 from his estate.
With a thankful heart I endorsed it over to the college toward my expenses. How surprised I was to later get an inheritance tax bill for $151.00—money I no longer had! And the next April’s income tax took another bite. My inheritance had shrunk!
You and I needn’t wait until God’s will is opened and read to us. We can open it and read it for ourselves anytime. We needn’t wonder if we’ll be included or for how much. We can be certain of our inheritance. And it’s guaranteed not to be taxed or otherwise diminished.
Insight: May the Lord show us how to live in the light of the wonderful inheritance He has for us.
To subscribe to this Devotional list send an email to daily_devotions@embarqmail.com with “subscribe-daily devotionals” in the subject line and I will be honored to add your email address to this list.
Topic: +DEV+ I – Inheritance from God
I – Inheritance from God
“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ . . . he has given us new birth into a living hope . . . and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil, or fade.” (1 Peter 1:3-4)
Scripture Focus: 1 Peter 1:3-9
Working my way through college gave the Lord many opportunities to supply my needs. He proved Himself faithful. I didn’t miss a meal nor did I owe money to any institution when I graduated.
God’s provisions came in unexpected ways sometimes. Many months after my grandfather died, I received a legal notice that I had been mentioned in his will. But no amount was specified. One day after I had all but forgotten about the matter, I received a check for $1,000 from his estate.
With a thankful heart I endorsed it over to the college toward my expenses. How surprised I was to later get an inheritance tax bill for $151.00—money I no longer had! And the next April’s income tax took another bite. My inheritance had shrunk!
You and I needn’t wait until God’s will is opened and read to us. We can open it and read it for ourselves anytime. We needn’t wonder if we’ll be included or for how much. We can be certain of our inheritance. And it’s guaranteed not to be taxed or otherwise diminished.
Insight: May the Lord show us how to live in the light of the wonderful inheritance He has for us.
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Tuesday, September 15, 2009
+DEV+ H – Hope in Heaven
Date: September 15, 2009 10:48 PM
Topic: +DEV+ H – Hope in Heaven
H – Hope in Heaven
“Now we are children of God. . . . But we know that when he appears, we shall be like him, for we shall see him, for we shall see him as he is.” (1 John 3:2-3)
Scripture Focus: Ephesians 2:11-13
There is no hope”—hard words for a physician to utter when the marvels of modern medicine offer no cure. They are even harder words for the family of the terminally ill to hear.
“Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life” (Proverbs 13:12). The thread of hope, fragile though it may be, keeps many a person alive long beyond the projected statistics. But when a patient finally gives up, often his earthly life soon ends.
Norman Cousin, following recovery from a serious illness, observed in his Anatomy of an Illness, “Some experts don’t really know enough to make a pronouncement of doom upon a human being. And I hope they would be careful about what they say to others. They might be believed, and that could be the beginning of the end.”
The believer in Christ has a hope that does not find its demise at the grave, but, guaranteed by Christ, is eternal and unchangeable (see Ephesians 2:12; Titus 1:2).
Insight: Thank your Heavenly Father that He has given you hope, not just for today, but for all eternity in Heaven.
To subscribe to this Devotional list send an email to daily_devotions@embarqmail.com with “subscribe-daily devotionals” in the subject line and I will be honored to add your email address to this list.
Topic: +DEV+ H – Hope in Heaven
H – Hope in Heaven
“Now we are children of God. . . . But we know that when he appears, we shall be like him, for we shall see him, for we shall see him as he is.” (1 John 3:2-3)
Scripture Focus: Ephesians 2:11-13
There is no hope”—hard words for a physician to utter when the marvels of modern medicine offer no cure. They are even harder words for the family of the terminally ill to hear.
“Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life” (Proverbs 13:12). The thread of hope, fragile though it may be, keeps many a person alive long beyond the projected statistics. But when a patient finally gives up, often his earthly life soon ends.
Norman Cousin, following recovery from a serious illness, observed in his Anatomy of an Illness, “Some experts don’t really know enough to make a pronouncement of doom upon a human being. And I hope they would be careful about what they say to others. They might be believed, and that could be the beginning of the end.”
The believer in Christ has a hope that does not find its demise at the grave, but, guaranteed by Christ, is eternal and unchangeable (see Ephesians 2:12; Titus 1:2).
Insight: Thank your Heavenly Father that He has given you hope, not just for today, but for all eternity in Heaven.
To subscribe to this Devotional list send an email to daily_devotions@embarqmail.com with “subscribe-daily devotionals” in the subject line and I will be honored to add your email address to this list.
Monday, September 14, 2009
+DEV+ G – Gifts for Service
Date: September 14, 2009 8:43 PM
Topic: +DEV+ G – Gifts for Service
G – Gifts for Service
“We are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” (Ephesians 2:10)
Scripture Focus: Romans 12:1-8
Other than her bandage scissors and money for supper, everything Karen needs to do her job—from pills to pillows— is provided for her. Supplying everything to make the Coronary Care Unit function is the responsibility of her employer.
When God calls us to do His work in the world, He assumes the responsibility to provide everything we need to successfully—even triumphantly—carry out our tasks. Many of His scriptural mandates seem humanly impossible. But God equips us with divinely bestowed abilities, enabling us to do the work He has given us. How do we receive God’s enabling gifts? First, by receiving the gift of eternal life through Jesus Christ by faith. Second, by obeying God’s commands and appropriating His resources by faith.
Wholesale butcher Henry Varley said to evangelist D. L. Moody, “The world has yet to see what God will do with a man who is fully consecrated to Him.” Mr. Moody responded, “By the grace of God, I will be that man.”
Insight: That challenge is still open to takers in our day. Let’s be diligent in discovering and exercising our spiritual abilities in the Lord’s service.
To subscribe to this Devotional list send an email to daily_devotions@embarqmail.com with “subscribe-daily devotionals” in the subject line and I will be honored to add your email address to this list.
Topic: +DEV+ G – Gifts for Service
G – Gifts for Service
“We are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” (Ephesians 2:10)
Scripture Focus: Romans 12:1-8
Other than her bandage scissors and money for supper, everything Karen needs to do her job—from pills to pillows— is provided for her. Supplying everything to make the Coronary Care Unit function is the responsibility of her employer.
When God calls us to do His work in the world, He assumes the responsibility to provide everything we need to successfully—even triumphantly—carry out our tasks. Many of His scriptural mandates seem humanly impossible. But God equips us with divinely bestowed abilities, enabling us to do the work He has given us. How do we receive God’s enabling gifts? First, by receiving the gift of eternal life through Jesus Christ by faith. Second, by obeying God’s commands and appropriating His resources by faith.
Wholesale butcher Henry Varley said to evangelist D. L. Moody, “The world has yet to see what God will do with a man who is fully consecrated to Him.” Mr. Moody responded, “By the grace of God, I will be that man.”
Insight: That challenge is still open to takers in our day. Let’s be diligent in discovering and exercising our spiritual abilities in the Lord’s service.
To subscribe to this Devotional list send an email to daily_devotions@embarqmail.com with “subscribe-daily devotionals” in the subject line and I will be honored to add your email address to this list.
Sunday, September 13, 2009
Date: September 13, 2009 11:30 PM
Topic: +DEV+ F – Forgiveness of Sins
F – Forgiveness of Sins
“Praise the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits—who forgives all your sins ...who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion.” (Psalm 103:2-3)
Scripture Focus: Jonah 1-3
There’s nothing worse, it seems, than to be at odds with the person you love most. Seven of the hardest words to utter are, “I’m sorry. Will you please forgive me?” Often what we really mean is, “Please forget I ever did it. Don’t ever mention it again. Treat me as if I had never wronged you.”
When God forgives us, He removes our transgressions as far from us as the East is from the West. The God who can do anything chooses to forget our confessed sins. More amazing, He actually treats us as though we had never wronged Him.
That God holds no grudges is evidenced in the prophet Jonah. His flight away from God was beset by obstacles designed by God to encourage his obedience. It seemed Jonah would rather be dead than do what God asked of him. Three days and nights in a great fish helped Jonah ask God’s forgiveness and agree to obey Him.
Soon after Jonah’s turn-around, God used him for the conversion of the large, proud, pagan metropolis of Ninevah.
Insight: Your past need never hold you back if you truly accept God’s full forgiveness.
To subscribe to this Devotional list send an email to daily_devotions@embarqmail.com with “subscribe-daily devotionals” in the subject line and I will be honored to add your email address to this list.
Topic: +DEV+ F – Forgiveness of Sins
F – Forgiveness of Sins
“Praise the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits—who forgives all your sins ...who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion.” (Psalm 103:2-3)
Scripture Focus: Jonah 1-3
There’s nothing worse, it seems, than to be at odds with the person you love most. Seven of the hardest words to utter are, “I’m sorry. Will you please forgive me?” Often what we really mean is, “Please forget I ever did it. Don’t ever mention it again. Treat me as if I had never wronged you.”
When God forgives us, He removes our transgressions as far from us as the East is from the West. The God who can do anything chooses to forget our confessed sins. More amazing, He actually treats us as though we had never wronged Him.
That God holds no grudges is evidenced in the prophet Jonah. His flight away from God was beset by obstacles designed by God to encourage his obedience. It seemed Jonah would rather be dead than do what God asked of him. Three days and nights in a great fish helped Jonah ask God’s forgiveness and agree to obey Him.
Soon after Jonah’s turn-around, God used him for the conversion of the large, proud, pagan metropolis of Ninevah.
Insight: Your past need never hold you back if you truly accept God’s full forgiveness.
To subscribe to this Devotional list send an email to daily_devotions@embarqmail.com with “subscribe-daily devotionals” in the subject line and I will be honored to add your email address to this list.
Thursday, September 10, 2009
+DEV+ E – Everlasting Life
Date: September 10, 2009 10:15 PM
Topic: +DEV+ E – Everlasting Life
E – Everlasting Life
“God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16)
Scripture Focus: John 5:19-30
Evangelist Kelly Bihl asked all 2,000 of us in the auditorium to close our eyes and stand when we thought a minute had elapsed. The silence was deafening. Then hesitatingly teens began to stand. The trickle gave way to a flood. But the evangelist waited till the last straggler stood. The result? The majority had stood after 30 seconds.
Years later I can still feel the impact of Dr. Bihl’s application. “If a minute seemed like a long time, imagine how long eternity will be! Eternity will be a never-ending stream of one minute after another minute after another minute. Your decision for or against Jesus Christ determines where you will spend your non-stop forever.”
Jesus said that one day the mortal remains in every grave will be resurrected, some to a resurrection of life, others to a resurrection of condemnation. God in love has done His part in giving His Son as the sacrifice for the world’s sins. Our part is to believe in Christ as our Savior, to trust His merits alone as our hope of heaven.
Insight: Salvation is a gift of love God freely offers us on the condition of our faith. What response should we make to such a gift?
To subscribe to this Devotional list send an email to daily_devotions@embarqmail.com with “subscribe-daily devotionals” in the subject line and I will be honored to add your email address to this list.
Topic: +DEV+ E – Everlasting Life
E – Everlasting Life
“God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16)
Scripture Focus: John 5:19-30
Evangelist Kelly Bihl asked all 2,000 of us in the auditorium to close our eyes and stand when we thought a minute had elapsed. The silence was deafening. Then hesitatingly teens began to stand. The trickle gave way to a flood. But the evangelist waited till the last straggler stood. The result? The majority had stood after 30 seconds.
Years later I can still feel the impact of Dr. Bihl’s application. “If a minute seemed like a long time, imagine how long eternity will be! Eternity will be a never-ending stream of one minute after another minute after another minute. Your decision for or against Jesus Christ determines where you will spend your non-stop forever.”
Jesus said that one day the mortal remains in every grave will be resurrected, some to a resurrection of life, others to a resurrection of condemnation. God in love has done His part in giving His Son as the sacrifice for the world’s sins. Our part is to believe in Christ as our Savior, to trust His merits alone as our hope of heaven.
Insight: Salvation is a gift of love God freely offers us on the condition of our faith. What response should we make to such a gift?
To subscribe to this Devotional list send an email to daily_devotions@embarqmail.com with “subscribe-daily devotionals” in the subject line and I will be honored to add your email address to this list.
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
+DEV+ E – Earnest of Our Inheritance
Date: September 9, 2009 9:49 PM
Topic: +DEV+ E – Earnest of Our Inheritance
E – Earnest of Our Inheritance
“You also were included in Christ. . . . Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance.” (Ephesians 1:13-14)
Scripture Focus: Ephesians 1
It couldn’t have been a more beautiful day to drive with Karen along Chicago’s Lake Shore Drive to a northside hotel to attend her nursing school banquet. This would be our third attendance together at this annual function, the first time being a blind date! Making a shallow excuse of needing to get the florist’s box from my car trunk, I pulled into a marina parking lot facing Lake Michigan. My heart seemed to be in my throat as I waited for Karen to notice something sparkling in the center of her orchid. I’ll let you imagine the gasp of joy and surprise when she spotted her diamond.
That May afternoon I gave Karen an engagement ring as an earnest, down payment on my promise to later add a plain silver band before a minister and witnesses. Two years and five weeks later the matrimonial knot was tied.
Believers are betrothed to Christ as their heavenly Bridegroom. He has given us the Holy Spirit as a pledge of His intention to one day fully redeem us into His presence.
Insight: Christ’s “earnest gift” is not a ring but a person—the Holy Spirit who lives within to remind us constantly of Christ’s love.
To subscribe to this Devotional list send an email to daily_devotions@embarqmail.com with “subscribe-daily devotionals” in the subject line and I will be honored to add your email address to this list.
Topic: +DEV+ E – Earnest of Our Inheritance
E – Earnest of Our Inheritance
“You also were included in Christ. . . . Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance.” (Ephesians 1:13-14)
Scripture Focus: Ephesians 1
It couldn’t have been a more beautiful day to drive with Karen along Chicago’s Lake Shore Drive to a northside hotel to attend her nursing school banquet. This would be our third attendance together at this annual function, the first time being a blind date! Making a shallow excuse of needing to get the florist’s box from my car trunk, I pulled into a marina parking lot facing Lake Michigan. My heart seemed to be in my throat as I waited for Karen to notice something sparkling in the center of her orchid. I’ll let you imagine the gasp of joy and surprise when she spotted her diamond.
That May afternoon I gave Karen an engagement ring as an earnest, down payment on my promise to later add a plain silver band before a minister and witnesses. Two years and five weeks later the matrimonial knot was tied.
Believers are betrothed to Christ as their heavenly Bridegroom. He has given us the Holy Spirit as a pledge of His intention to one day fully redeem us into His presence.
Insight: Christ’s “earnest gift” is not a ring but a person—the Holy Spirit who lives within to remind us constantly of Christ’s love.
To subscribe to this Devotional list send an email to daily_devotions@embarqmail.com with “subscribe-daily devotionals” in the subject line and I will be honored to add your email address to this list.
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
+DEV+ D – Deliverance from Darkness
Date: September 8, 2009 10:58 PM
Topic: +DEV+ D – Deliverance from Darkness
D – Deliverance from Darkness
“He has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.” (Colossians 1:13-14)
Scripture Focus: Colossians 1:9-14
Try to describe the color white without using the word black. Or “new” apart from “old.” Some concepts are easier to describe by contrasts. God makes liberal use of contrasts to help us understand how vastly different is our new position in Christ.
Kingdom of darkness - Colossians 1:13
Kingdom of light - 1 Peter 2:9
Children of Satan - John 8:44
Children of God - Galatians 3:26
Dead in sin - Ephesians 2:1
Alive in Christ - Ephesians 2:1
Enemy of God - Romans 5:8
Friend of God - John 15:14
Old Nature - Ephesians 4:22
New Nature - Ephesians 4:23-24
Eternal death - Romans 6:23
Eternal life - Romans 6:23
The kingdoms of light and darkness are also mutually exclusive. Everyone is either in one or the other. Trusting Jesus Christ as our Savior transfers us from the first column above to the second.
Insight: How will you show by your speech and actions today that you have been delivered from the power of darkness and translated into the kingdom of God’s Son of love?
To subscribe to this Devotional list send an email to daily_devotions@embarqmail.com with “subscribe-daily devotionals” in the subject line and I will be honored to add your email address to this list.
Topic: +DEV+ D – Deliverance from Darkness
D – Deliverance from Darkness
“He has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.” (Colossians 1:13-14)
Scripture Focus: Colossians 1:9-14
Try to describe the color white without using the word black. Or “new” apart from “old.” Some concepts are easier to describe by contrasts. God makes liberal use of contrasts to help us understand how vastly different is our new position in Christ.
Kingdom of darkness - Colossians 1:13
Kingdom of light - 1 Peter 2:9
Children of Satan - John 8:44
Children of God - Galatians 3:26
Dead in sin - Ephesians 2:1
Alive in Christ - Ephesians 2:1
Enemy of God - Romans 5:8
Friend of God - John 15:14
Old Nature - Ephesians 4:22
New Nature - Ephesians 4:23-24
Eternal death - Romans 6:23
Eternal life - Romans 6:23
The kingdoms of light and darkness are also mutually exclusive. Everyone is either in one or the other. Trusting Jesus Christ as our Savior transfers us from the first column above to the second.
Insight: How will you show by your speech and actions today that you have been delivered from the power of darkness and translated into the kingdom of God’s Son of love?
To subscribe to this Devotional list send an email to daily_devotions@embarqmail.com with “subscribe-daily devotionals” in the subject line and I will be honored to add your email address to this list.
Monday, September 7, 2009
+DEV+ C – Complete in Christ
Date: September 7, 2009 8:23 PM
Topic: +DEV+ C – Complete in Christ
C – Complete in Christ
“We are complete in Him [Christ], who is the head of all principality and power.” (Colossians 2:10, NASB)
Scripture Focus: Colossians 2:6-15
Blank checks from God—that’s how I think of the all-inclusive words of Bible promises, such as all, everyone, whosoever, and you. Note a few examples of God’s blank checks:
• “He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?” (Romans 8:32)
• “The God of all comfort, who comfort us in all our troubles” (2 Corinthians 1:3-4).
• “My God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:19).
• “God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work” (2 Corinthians 9:8).
God has provided everything needed for His child’s successful living. All you need do is fill in your name and the “amount” according to your faith. You don’t need to fear His infinite resources will be inadequate.
Insight: When you read God’s promises to “whomever,” insert your name in the “blank.” He has made available to you everything you need to live for Him.
To subscribe to this Devotional list send an email to daily_devotions@embarqmail.com with “subscribe-daily devotionals” in the subject line and I will be honored to add your email address to this list.
Topic: +DEV+ C – Complete in Christ
C – Complete in Christ
“We are complete in Him [Christ], who is the head of all principality and power.” (Colossians 2:10, NASB)
Scripture Focus: Colossians 2:6-15
Blank checks from God—that’s how I think of the all-inclusive words of Bible promises, such as all, everyone, whosoever, and you. Note a few examples of God’s blank checks:
• “He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?” (Romans 8:32)
• “The God of all comfort, who comfort us in all our troubles” (2 Corinthians 1:3-4).
• “My God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:19).
• “God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work” (2 Corinthians 9:8).
God has provided everything needed for His child’s successful living. All you need do is fill in your name and the “amount” according to your faith. You don’t need to fear His infinite resources will be inadequate.
Insight: When you read God’s promises to “whomever,” insert your name in the “blank.” He has made available to you everything you need to live for Him.
To subscribe to this Devotional list send an email to daily_devotions@embarqmail.com with “subscribe-daily devotionals” in the subject line and I will be honored to add your email address to this list.
+DEV+ C – Complete in Christ
Date: September 7, 2009 8:23 PM
Topic: +DEV+ C – Complete in Christ
C – Complete in Christ
“We are complete in Him [Christ], who is the head of all principality and power.” (Colossians 2:10, NASB)
Scripture Focus: Colossians 2:6-15
Blank checks from God—that’s how I think of the all-inclusive words of Bible promises, such as all, everyone, whosoever, and you. Note a few examples of God’s blank checks:
• “He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?” (Romans 8:32)
• “The God of all comfort, who comfort us in all our troubles” (2 Corinthians 1:3-4).
• “My God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:19).
• “God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work” (2 Corinthians 9:8).
God has provided everything needed for His child’s successful living. All you need do is fill in your name and the “amount” according to your faith. You don’t need to fear His infinite resources will be inadequate.
Insight: When you read God’s promises to “whomever,” insert your name in the “blank.” He has made available to you everything you need to live for Him.
To subscribe to this Devotional list send an email to daily_devotions@embarqmail.com with “subscribe-daily devotionals” in the subject line and I will be honored to add your email address to this list.
Topic: +DEV+ C – Complete in Christ
C – Complete in Christ
“We are complete in Him [Christ], who is the head of all principality and power.” (Colossians 2:10, NASB)
Scripture Focus: Colossians 2:6-15
Blank checks from God—that’s how I think of the all-inclusive words of Bible promises, such as all, everyone, whosoever, and you. Note a few examples of God’s blank checks:
• “He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?” (Romans 8:32)
• “The God of all comfort, who comfort us in all our troubles” (2 Corinthians 1:3-4).
• “My God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:19).
• “God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work” (2 Corinthians 9:8).
God has provided everything needed for His child’s successful living. All you need do is fill in your name and the “amount” according to your faith. You don’t need to fear His infinite resources will be inadequate.
Insight: When you read God’s promises to “whomever,” insert your name in the “blank.” He has made available to you everything you need to live for Him.
To subscribe to this Devotional list send an email to daily_devotions@embarqmail.com with “subscribe-daily devotionals” in the subject line and I will be honored to add your email address to this list.
Sunday, September 6, 2009
+DEV+ B – Birth from Above
Date: September 6, 2009 10:30 PM
Topic: +DEV+ B – Birth from Above
B – Birth from Above
“Jesus declared, ‘I tell you the truth, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again.’” (John 3:3)
Scripture Focus: John 3:1-16
From nothing to becoming a beautiful infant—in just nine months. We look through the nursery window at this perfectly-formed creature and marvel at one of life’s greatest miracles. The Creator endowed His creation with the ability to reproduce after its kind. God also reproduces spiritually.
Much as we need physical birth to enter this world, so we need a spiritual birth to enter heaven. Jesus told Nicodemus, a high-ranking religious teacher in Israel, not to be amazed when He said, “You need to be born again.” Jesus was comparing two different kinds of birth: physical birth, which comes naturally, and spiritual birth, which comes secondarily and only supernaturally.
Do you have confidence that you are alive spiritually? Much as we have been born through human parentage, with no effort on our part, we can have a second birth spiritually into the family of God through personal trust in Jesus Christ as our Savior. No one can ever see the kingdom of God without being born anew from above.
Insight: Praise God for offering you the gift of new birth and for paying the price to make this possible for you.
To subscribe to this Devotional list send an email to daily_devotions@embarqmail.com with “subscribe-daily devotionals” in the subject line and I will be honored to add your email address to this list.
Topic: +DEV+ B – Birth from Above
B – Birth from Above
“Jesus declared, ‘I tell you the truth, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again.’” (John 3:3)
Scripture Focus: John 3:1-16
From nothing to becoming a beautiful infant—in just nine months. We look through the nursery window at this perfectly-formed creature and marvel at one of life’s greatest miracles. The Creator endowed His creation with the ability to reproduce after its kind. God also reproduces spiritually.
Much as we need physical birth to enter this world, so we need a spiritual birth to enter heaven. Jesus told Nicodemus, a high-ranking religious teacher in Israel, not to be amazed when He said, “You need to be born again.” Jesus was comparing two different kinds of birth: physical birth, which comes naturally, and spiritual birth, which comes secondarily and only supernaturally.
Do you have confidence that you are alive spiritually? Much as we have been born through human parentage, with no effort on our part, we can have a second birth spiritually into the family of God through personal trust in Jesus Christ as our Savior. No one can ever see the kingdom of God without being born anew from above.
Insight: Praise God for offering you the gift of new birth and for paying the price to make this possible for you.
To subscribe to this Devotional list send an email to daily_devotions@embarqmail.com with “subscribe-daily devotionals” in the subject line and I will be honored to add your email address to this list.
Thursday, September 3, 2009
+DEV+ A – Adoption by God
Date: September 3, 2009 11:29 PM
Topic: +DEV+ A – Adoption by God
A – Adoption by God
“You did not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again to fear, but you received the Spirit of sonship. And by him we cry, ‘Abba, Father.’” (Romans 8:15)
Scripture Focus: Romans 8:15-17
All their time, energy, resources, and love—for the rest of their lives. That’s the price our friends Phillip and Becky are paying to adopt two abused children with physical and psychological problems. The unending love, dedication, and self-sacrifice of this young couple is a marvel to us. For better or worse they are committed to giving these boys every right and privilege as though they were their children through natural birth.
Phillip and Becky didn’t have to get involved, but their love led them to the boys in their needs. Nor did God have to adopt us. His love led Him to us in our need.
Through Christ we can call God our Father. We have His own word for this: “To all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God” (John 1:12).
He promises to provide for all our needs and gives us the privilege to even address Him by an intimate family name, “Abba”—which could be translated Dear Daddy.
Insight: How can you express your thanks to God for adopting you and giving you all the rights and privileges of being His child?
To subscribe to this Devotional list send an email to daily_devotions@embarqmail.com with “subscribe-daily devotionals” in the subject line and I will be honored to add your email address to this list.
Topic: +DEV+ A – Adoption by God
A – Adoption by God
“You did not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again to fear, but you received the Spirit of sonship. And by him we cry, ‘Abba, Father.’” (Romans 8:15)
Scripture Focus: Romans 8:15-17
All their time, energy, resources, and love—for the rest of their lives. That’s the price our friends Phillip and Becky are paying to adopt two abused children with physical and psychological problems. The unending love, dedication, and self-sacrifice of this young couple is a marvel to us. For better or worse they are committed to giving these boys every right and privilege as though they were their children through natural birth.
Phillip and Becky didn’t have to get involved, but their love led them to the boys in their needs. Nor did God have to adopt us. His love led Him to us in our need.
Through Christ we can call God our Father. We have His own word for this: “To all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God” (John 1:12).
He promises to provide for all our needs and gives us the privilege to even address Him by an intimate family name, “Abba”—which could be translated Dear Daddy.
Insight: How can you express your thanks to God for adopting you and giving you all the rights and privileges of being His child?
To subscribe to this Devotional list send an email to daily_devotions@embarqmail.com with “subscribe-daily devotionals” in the subject line and I will be honored to add your email address to this list.
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
+DEV+ A – Acceptance in the Beloved
Date: September 2, 2009 11:40 PM
Topic: +DEV+ A – Acceptance in the Beloved
A – Acceptance in the Beloved
“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ.” (Ephesians 1:3)
Scripture Focus: Romans 8:31-39
For the typical teenage girl it is a fate which seems worse than death, being sent to school without the “right” clothes. If the jeans don’t have the “right” label, forget trying to make her wear them.
She thinks that having the “in” clothes is her ticket to acceptance by her peers. But school status based on appearance is subject to designer or advertiser change. And since her peer leaders have decided to make her the current scapegoat, it seems the harder she tries to be accepted, the more she is rejected.
Everyone wants to be “in” someplace. We need some person or group to receive us favorably. We may be accepted by society for awhile, but God is willing to accept us forever. God’s acceptance is based neither on appearance nor performance. We’re accepted as we are because of who Christ is.
God’s condition for acceptance is internal, our being in Christ. His blood, which covers us from all sin, becomes our “right” clothes. God bought the garments for us. Our part is to accept them as a gift.
Insight: When God decided to love you He already knew everything about you—past, present, and future. Nothing can separate you from His love.
To subscribe to this Devotional list send an email to daily_devotions@embarqmail.com with “subscribe-daily devotionals” in the subject line and I will be honored to add your email address to this list.
Topic: +DEV+ A – Acceptance in the Beloved
A – Acceptance in the Beloved
“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ.” (Ephesians 1:3)
Scripture Focus: Romans 8:31-39
For the typical teenage girl it is a fate which seems worse than death, being sent to school without the “right” clothes. If the jeans don’t have the “right” label, forget trying to make her wear them.
She thinks that having the “in” clothes is her ticket to acceptance by her peers. But school status based on appearance is subject to designer or advertiser change. And since her peer leaders have decided to make her the current scapegoat, it seems the harder she tries to be accepted, the more she is rejected.
Everyone wants to be “in” someplace. We need some person or group to receive us favorably. We may be accepted by society for awhile, but God is willing to accept us forever. God’s acceptance is based neither on appearance nor performance. We’re accepted as we are because of who Christ is.
God’s condition for acceptance is internal, our being in Christ. His blood, which covers us from all sin, becomes our “right” clothes. God bought the garments for us. Our part is to accept them as a gift.
Insight: When God decided to love you He already knew everything about you—past, present, and future. Nothing can separate you from His love.
To subscribe to this Devotional list send an email to daily_devotions@embarqmail.com with “subscribe-daily devotionals” in the subject line and I will be honored to add your email address to this list.
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Date: September 1, 2009 10:24 PM
Topic: +DEV+ An Alphabet of Redemption
An Alphabet of Redemption
“I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End.” (Revelation 22:13).
Scripture Focus: John 14:1-6
Verbal and written communication among English-speaking people boils down to 26 simple symbols—the alphabet. Some languages are communicated with even fewer symbols, such as Hebrew with 22. It’s amazing we can do so much with so few language keys.
Attempting to be all-inclusive when we say, “everything from A to Z,” we mentally include the 24 letters between the first and the last.
Jesus describes Himself as the Alpha and the Omega, the first and last letters of the Greek alphabet. He is the beginning and the ending and everything in between.
Our Savior made another all-inclusive claim when He said, “I am the [only] way, the truth, and the life.” He added, “No one comes to the Father but through me” (John 14:6). In Christ, God provided us with a perfect redemption from A to Z. This month we look at truths arranged alphabetically, all accruing to our heavenly account when we trust Christ as Savior.
Insight: Praise God for communicating to us through His words—the written Word and the living Word (His Son). Are you ready to receive all He has for you in Christ?
To subscribe to this Devotional list send an email to daily_devotions@embarqmail.com with “subscribe-daily devotionals” in the subject line and I will be honored to add your email address to this list.
Topic: +DEV+ An Alphabet of Redemption
An Alphabet of Redemption
“I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End.” (Revelation 22:13).
Scripture Focus: John 14:1-6
Verbal and written communication among English-speaking people boils down to 26 simple symbols—the alphabet. Some languages are communicated with even fewer symbols, such as Hebrew with 22. It’s amazing we can do so much with so few language keys.
Attempting to be all-inclusive when we say, “everything from A to Z,” we mentally include the 24 letters between the first and the last.
Jesus describes Himself as the Alpha and the Omega, the first and last letters of the Greek alphabet. He is the beginning and the ending and everything in between.
Our Savior made another all-inclusive claim when He said, “I am the [only] way, the truth, and the life.” He added, “No one comes to the Father but through me” (John 14:6). In Christ, God provided us with a perfect redemption from A to Z. This month we look at truths arranged alphabetically, all accruing to our heavenly account when we trust Christ as Savior.
Insight: Praise God for communicating to us through His words—the written Word and the living Word (His Son). Are you ready to receive all He has for you in Christ?
To subscribe to this Devotional list send an email to daily_devotions@embarqmail.com with “subscribe-daily devotionals” in the subject line and I will be honored to add your email address to this list.
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