Date: November 30, 2010 10:38 PM
Topic: +DEV+ The War on Stress
The War on Stress
"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law" (Galatians 5:22-23).
Scripture Focus: Galatians 5:13-26
Stress is a reality of life. In almost every periodical I've read recently, there is an article addressing stress and the steps to avoiding it. Excessive stress can cause upheaval, seriously hamper our relationship with God, even lead to death. While books are a dime-a-dozen on this matter, it's the Bible that gives the real guidance to freedom from anxiety. By clinging to the Prince of Peace revealed in Scripture, we can deal with this pressing enemy.
The verses on the fruit of the Spirit help us defend against daily stress. The Holy Spirit gives us the power, and Jesus gives us the tools. First is love, modeled supremely by Jesus. Second is joy, coming from having Jesus at the center of life. Third is peace which comes from Jesus during times of tribulation (John 6:33). With the patience, kindness and goodness Christ has shown us, He guides us in relation to others. His faithfulness, gentleness and self-control allow us to act in the best interest of others. Because of Him we can seek and find peace for our lives.
Insight: Pray That Through The Fruit Of The Spirit God Would Keep Us From The Stress Of The World And In His Peace.
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Monday, November 29, 2010
+DEV+ A Servant's Heart
Date: November 29, 2010 7:24 PM
Topic: +DEV+ A Servant's Heart
A Servant's Heart
"And Mephibosheth lived in Jerusalem, because he always ate at the king's table, and he was crippled in both feet" (2 Samuel 9:13).
Scripture Focus: 2 Samuel 9:1-13
I watched as one of our valets drove the golf cart with a patient who had come to the hospital for a test. He helped the lady off the cart, held on to her as he opened her walker, and then smiled, promising to pick her up again. She looked up at him and gave him a genuine "thank you." This valet and I had talked several times about things that really matter in life and both agreed about the importance of investing time and energy in people, helping where we can, making life a bit easier, offering hope and friendship and a smile.
King David became a servant to Mephibosheth, his friend Jonathan's crippled son, by providing for his every need. David showed grace because he knew the grace God had given him. Surrounding us, too, are "crippled" people from all walks of life, some hindered physically, others emotionally.
Remembering what the Lord has done for us, God calls us to show grace, love, friendship and help. Be it resolved this year we will serve Him with a smile.
Insight: Let The Words Of The Chorus Ring Out Clearly: "To Be Like Jesus, To Be Like Jesus, All I Ask...To Be Like Him."
Topic: +DEV+ A Servant's Heart
A Servant's Heart
"And Mephibosheth lived in Jerusalem, because he always ate at the king's table, and he was crippled in both feet" (2 Samuel 9:13).
Scripture Focus: 2 Samuel 9:1-13
I watched as one of our valets drove the golf cart with a patient who had come to the hospital for a test. He helped the lady off the cart, held on to her as he opened her walker, and then smiled, promising to pick her up again. She looked up at him and gave him a genuine "thank you." This valet and I had talked several times about things that really matter in life and both agreed about the importance of investing time and energy in people, helping where we can, making life a bit easier, offering hope and friendship and a smile.
King David became a servant to Mephibosheth, his friend Jonathan's crippled son, by providing for his every need. David showed grace because he knew the grace God had given him. Surrounding us, too, are "crippled" people from all walks of life, some hindered physically, others emotionally.
Remembering what the Lord has done for us, God calls us to show grace, love, friendship and help. Be it resolved this year we will serve Him with a smile.
Insight: Let The Words Of The Chorus Ring Out Clearly: "To Be Like Jesus, To Be Like Jesus, All I Ask...To Be Like Him."
Sunday, November 28, 2010
+DEV+ An Ear for God
Date: November 28, 2010 2:10 PM
Topic: +DEV+ An Ear for God
An Ear for God
"'Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth'" (Psalm 46:10).
Scripture Focus: Psalm 46
We had been radioed to check a Soviet sympathizer group that was located in a wooded area near the Line between East and West Germany. I knew it was "serious" when the soldier gave me an extra set of keys to his vehicle. As we left the vehicle and made our way around the compound, we listened, aware of every little noise and sound. The adrenalin was working overtime.
As I think of that event, I'm reminded of times in Scripture that God called us to listen carefully. To Elijah He spoke in the still, small voice. Samuel heard God speak: "The Lord came and stood there, calling as at the other times, 'Samuel! Samuel!' Then Samuel said, 'Speak, for your servant is listening'" (1 Samuel 3:10). This Hebrew word for "listening" denotes giving our undivided attention for making just decisions. The noise of our complex lives is a deadly enemy of listening, sidetracking us and dulling our ability to make wise choices. Resolve in this New Year to be a genuine and thorough listener, keeping watch "to see what he will say to me" (Habakkuk 2:1).
Insight: I Will Concentrate On Giving God Both My Time And Attention With Fresh Love And Reverence To Him.
Topic: +DEV+ An Ear for God
An Ear for God
"'Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth'" (Psalm 46:10).
Scripture Focus: Psalm 46
We had been radioed to check a Soviet sympathizer group that was located in a wooded area near the Line between East and West Germany. I knew it was "serious" when the soldier gave me an extra set of keys to his vehicle. As we left the vehicle and made our way around the compound, we listened, aware of every little noise and sound. The adrenalin was working overtime.
As I think of that event, I'm reminded of times in Scripture that God called us to listen carefully. To Elijah He spoke in the still, small voice. Samuel heard God speak: "The Lord came and stood there, calling as at the other times, 'Samuel! Samuel!' Then Samuel said, 'Speak, for your servant is listening'" (1 Samuel 3:10). This Hebrew word for "listening" denotes giving our undivided attention for making just decisions. The noise of our complex lives is a deadly enemy of listening, sidetracking us and dulling our ability to make wise choices. Resolve in this New Year to be a genuine and thorough listener, keeping watch "to see what he will say to me" (Habakkuk 2:1).
Insight: I Will Concentrate On Giving God Both My Time And Attention With Fresh Love And Reverence To Him.
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
+DEV+ The Church
Date: November 24, 2010 9:53 PM
Topic: +DEV+ The Church
The Church
"Here I am! I stand at the door and knock., If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me" (Revelation 3:20).
Scripture Focus: Revelation 3:7-13
Laodicea was about 100 miles east of Ephesus and was known as a banking center and the location of a famous medical school. Though it was a prosperous community at one time, today the city is in complete ruins. John writes about the successes and failures of churches in that 1st century. The church of Laodicea was complacent. Over the years I've read about the church of Laodicea, and I get chills when I think of how affluence ruined it. They had the form, but no life. Their spiritual value system had collapsed.
There is an echo of Laodicea ringing out in our culture today. We must resolve to fight that apathy and not become nominal Christians. Being luke-warm dampens faith. But the invitation of Jesus is to "open the door" of our life to Him. There is action each of us must take to keep the flame of faith hot. It begins with repentance followed by absolute devotion and zeal. It's a wonderful example of both God's grace extended to us freely and our responsibility acted out gratefully.
Insight: Be a wise believer, listening with your spiritual hearing to what God is saying to the church today, realizing your responsibility as a member.
Topic: +DEV+ The Church
The Church
"Here I am! I stand at the door and knock., If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me" (Revelation 3:20).
Scripture Focus: Revelation 3:7-13
Laodicea was about 100 miles east of Ephesus and was known as a banking center and the location of a famous medical school. Though it was a prosperous community at one time, today the city is in complete ruins. John writes about the successes and failures of churches in that 1st century. The church of Laodicea was complacent. Over the years I've read about the church of Laodicea, and I get chills when I think of how affluence ruined it. They had the form, but no life. Their spiritual value system had collapsed.
There is an echo of Laodicea ringing out in our culture today. We must resolve to fight that apathy and not become nominal Christians. Being luke-warm dampens faith. But the invitation of Jesus is to "open the door" of our life to Him. There is action each of us must take to keep the flame of faith hot. It begins with repentance followed by absolute devotion and zeal. It's a wonderful example of both God's grace extended to us freely and our responsibility acted out gratefully.
Insight: Be a wise believer, listening with your spiritual hearing to what God is saying to the church today, realizing your responsibility as a member.
Monday, November 22, 2010
+DEV+ Idolaters' Final Bow
Date: November 22, 2010 7:27 PM
Topic: +DEV+ Idolaters' Final Bow
Idolaters' Final Bow
"The LORD will march out like a mighty man, like a warrior he will stir up his zeal; with a shout he will raise the battle cry and will triumph over his enemies" (Isaiah 42:13).
Scripture Focus: Revelation 19:17-21
The Philistines had captured the Ark of the Covenant which represented God's presence in Israel. Audaciously, they carried the Ark into their temple and placed it beside their idol, Dagon. Early the next morning, the Philistines found Dagon lying face down before the Ark. Slow to learn that God is greater than an idol, they set it up again in front of the Ark. The following morning they found Dagon face down on the ground in front of the Ark, this time with its head and hands broken off. Before long and after physical affliction from God, the Philistines wanted to get rid of the Ark altogether.
No idol can stand permanently in God's presence. When Jesus comes again in a blaze of glory, He will destroy every idol of every kind that ever was. Those who have trusted in images will be turned back in utter shame (See Isaiah 42:17). Paul tells us in Romans that we will all stand before God's judgment; every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord (vs. 11).
Insight: Let us worship and bow down and kneel before the Lord Who made us because He alone is worthy!
Topic: +DEV+ Idolaters' Final Bow
Idolaters' Final Bow
"The LORD will march out like a mighty man, like a warrior he will stir up his zeal; with a shout he will raise the battle cry and will triumph over his enemies" (Isaiah 42:13).
Scripture Focus: Revelation 19:17-21
The Philistines had captured the Ark of the Covenant which represented God's presence in Israel. Audaciously, they carried the Ark into their temple and placed it beside their idol, Dagon. Early the next morning, the Philistines found Dagon lying face down before the Ark. Slow to learn that God is greater than an idol, they set it up again in front of the Ark. The following morning they found Dagon face down on the ground in front of the Ark, this time with its head and hands broken off. Before long and after physical affliction from God, the Philistines wanted to get rid of the Ark altogether.
No idol can stand permanently in God's presence. When Jesus comes again in a blaze of glory, He will destroy every idol of every kind that ever was. Those who have trusted in images will be turned back in utter shame (See Isaiah 42:17). Paul tells us in Romans that we will all stand before God's judgment; every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord (vs. 11).
Insight: Let us worship and bow down and kneel before the Lord Who made us because He alone is worthy!
Saturday, November 20, 2010
+DEV+ Nature Worship
Date: November 20, 2010 10:10 PM
Topic: +DEV+ Nature Worship
Nature Worship
"He [Jesus] was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made" (John 1:2-3).
Scripture Focus: Romans 1:18-25
Genesis 11 reports the building of the Tower of Babel. The purpose of this skyscraper-temple was to give the builders a high platform from which they would worship the stars and planets closer than from the ground. But God, who made the stars and planets, threw the nature worshipers into utter confusion. He divided their common language into a variety of languages and scattered them far from the construction site.
Nature worship did not end at the Tower of Babel. It manifests itself today in the extreme environmentalism that perceives all animal and plant life as sacred while it denies the existence of the all-wise, all-powerful Creator. It may take the form of astrology and send men and women scurrying to their morning newspaper to learn what their horoscope predicts for that day.
Although we should respect nature as a divine gift and therefore help to protect it, we must not worship it. Acknowledge the Creator, and praise Him for all He has made.
Insight: All nature displays the Creator's masterful design; so why live in God's beautiful world without God?
Topic: +DEV+ Nature Worship
Nature Worship
"He [Jesus] was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made" (John 1:2-3).
Scripture Focus: Romans 1:18-25
Genesis 11 reports the building of the Tower of Babel. The purpose of this skyscraper-temple was to give the builders a high platform from which they would worship the stars and planets closer than from the ground. But God, who made the stars and planets, threw the nature worshipers into utter confusion. He divided their common language into a variety of languages and scattered them far from the construction site.
Nature worship did not end at the Tower of Babel. It manifests itself today in the extreme environmentalism that perceives all animal and plant life as sacred while it denies the existence of the all-wise, all-powerful Creator. It may take the form of astrology and send men and women scurrying to their morning newspaper to learn what their horoscope predicts for that day.
Although we should respect nature as a divine gift and therefore help to protect it, we must not worship it. Acknowledge the Creator, and praise Him for all He has made.
Insight: All nature displays the Creator's masterful design; so why live in God's beautiful world without God?
Thursday, November 18, 2010
+DEV+ The Just-in-Case God
Date: November 18, 2010 10:39 PM
Topic: +DEV+ The Just-in-Case God
The Just-in-Case God
"'The God who made the world and everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth and does not live in temples built by hands'" (Acts 17:24).
Scripture Focus: Acts 17:16-23
When Paul preached "the good news about Jesus and the resurrection" in Athens (Acts 17:18), some philosophers thought he was advocating foreign gods and therefore brought him to the Areopagus, a court that decided religious matters.
Paul was, in fact, introducing the true God, not a foreign god. The God he preached was the One the Athenians had built an altar to and designated, "An Unknown God" (vs. 22). Apparently the Athenians had built this altar in case a god existed that they knew nothing about. Many religious people today who do not know the true God pay some respect to Him by occasionally attending church, wanting to mollify Him just in case He exists.
The apostle Paul identified the true God as the sovereign Creator, to Whom we owe our existence and to Whom we are accountable, Who raised Jesus from the dead and summons everyone to repent. In brief, Paul urged the members of the Areopagus to put aside their feelings about a just-in-case god and put their faith in the true God.
Insight: God may be unknown to many, but He has made Himself known through Jesus. Everyone who believes on Jesus becomes personally acquainted with God.
Topic: +DEV+ The Just-in-Case God
The Just-in-Case God
"'The God who made the world and everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth and does not live in temples built by hands'" (Acts 17:24).
Scripture Focus: Acts 17:16-23
When Paul preached "the good news about Jesus and the resurrection" in Athens (Acts 17:18), some philosophers thought he was advocating foreign gods and therefore brought him to the Areopagus, a court that decided religious matters.
Paul was, in fact, introducing the true God, not a foreign god. The God he preached was the One the Athenians had built an altar to and designated, "An Unknown God" (vs. 22). Apparently the Athenians had built this altar in case a god existed that they knew nothing about. Many religious people today who do not know the true God pay some respect to Him by occasionally attending church, wanting to mollify Him just in case He exists.
The apostle Paul identified the true God as the sovereign Creator, to Whom we owe our existence and to Whom we are accountable, Who raised Jesus from the dead and summons everyone to repent. In brief, Paul urged the members of the Areopagus to put aside their feelings about a just-in-case god and put their faith in the true God.
Insight: God may be unknown to many, but He has made Himself known through Jesus. Everyone who believes on Jesus becomes personally acquainted with God.
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
+DEV+ The Limelight Idol
Date: November 17, 2010 10:23 PM
Topic: +DEV+ The Limelight Idol
The Limelight Idol
"'So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do...to be honored by men. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full'" (Matthew 6:2).
Scripture Focus: Acts 5:1-11
We feel good about some people being in the limelight: firefighters, police officers, and members of the military who risk their lives to protect and save others. We are happy to see Olympic medal winners and honor students have their moments in the limelight. But when people resort to dishonest means to get fame and publicity, it does not sit well with us.
The church in Jerusalem heartily recognized Barnabas as a self-sacrificing individual. He had sold some land and donated the money for the needy. But then Ananias and his wife Sapphira tried to gain the limelight by selling their property and pretending to donate the entire amount of the transaction to help the needy. They could have kept part of the profit or even all of it, because they were under no obligation to donate it at all. However, they conspired to lie to God and man about the sale amount. When their conspiracy was revealed, they paid for their limelight worship with their lives. God values humility and integrity.
Insight: Don't worship the limelight. Worship the One Who is the Light!
Topic: +DEV+ The Limelight Idol
The Limelight Idol
"'So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do...to be honored by men. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full'" (Matthew 6:2).
Scripture Focus: Acts 5:1-11
We feel good about some people being in the limelight: firefighters, police officers, and members of the military who risk their lives to protect and save others. We are happy to see Olympic medal winners and honor students have their moments in the limelight. But when people resort to dishonest means to get fame and publicity, it does not sit well with us.
The church in Jerusalem heartily recognized Barnabas as a self-sacrificing individual. He had sold some land and donated the money for the needy. But then Ananias and his wife Sapphira tried to gain the limelight by selling their property and pretending to donate the entire amount of the transaction to help the needy. They could have kept part of the profit or even all of it, because they were under no obligation to donate it at all. However, they conspired to lie to God and man about the sale amount. When their conspiracy was revealed, they paid for their limelight worship with their lives. God values humility and integrity.
Insight: Don't worship the limelight. Worship the One Who is the Light!
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
+DEV+ Good Luck Charms
Date: November 16, 2010 11:19 PM
Topic: +DEV+ Good Luck Charms
Good Luck Charms
"Delight yourself in the Lord and he will give you the desires of your heart." (Psalm 37:4).
Scripture Focus: Leviticus 26:1-13
Do you remember having a good luck charm when you were young? It may have been a rabbit's foot or a lucky penny. We must have wanted something to hold onto. Probably not one of us knows the whereabouts of those items today.
Thankfully, we cling to something lasting, and His name is Jesus Christ. While the human heart craves good fortune and places its confidence in meaningless objects, the One Who will never be moved holds out His hand to us.
The wisdom of Psalm 37 gives us more assurance than any four-leaf clover. "Trust in the LORD" (vs. 3); "Delight yourself in the LORD" (vs. 4); and "Commit your way to the LORD" (vs. 5).
While many discard old "good luck charms," some people today still cling to them. Abandon those childish ways. Let the Word of Christ dwell in you richly. Then not only will you know how to hate what is evil and cling to what is good (Romans 12:9), but also you'll know the One in Whose grip you are tightly held. Let the rabbits keep their feet!
Insight: The devil is not opposed to faith if its object is anything or anyone but God. But he trembles when it is.
Topic: +DEV+ Good Luck Charms
Good Luck Charms
"Delight yourself in the Lord and he will give you the desires of your heart." (Psalm 37:4).
Scripture Focus: Leviticus 26:1-13
Do you remember having a good luck charm when you were young? It may have been a rabbit's foot or a lucky penny. We must have wanted something to hold onto. Probably not one of us knows the whereabouts of those items today.
Thankfully, we cling to something lasting, and His name is Jesus Christ. While the human heart craves good fortune and places its confidence in meaningless objects, the One Who will never be moved holds out His hand to us.
The wisdom of Psalm 37 gives us more assurance than any four-leaf clover. "Trust in the LORD" (vs. 3); "Delight yourself in the LORD" (vs. 4); and "Commit your way to the LORD" (vs. 5).
While many discard old "good luck charms," some people today still cling to them. Abandon those childish ways. Let the Word of Christ dwell in you richly. Then not only will you know how to hate what is evil and cling to what is good (Romans 12:9), but also you'll know the One in Whose grip you are tightly held. Let the rabbits keep their feet!
Insight: The devil is not opposed to faith if its object is anything or anyone but God. But he trembles when it is.
Monday, November 15, 2010
+DEV+ The Power Idol
Date: November 15, 2010 9:26 PM
Topic: +DEV+ The Power Idol
The Power Idol
"I am the Living One; I was dead, and behold I am alive forever and ever! And I hold they keys of death and Hades" (Revelation 1:18)!
Scripture Focus: Matthew 2:7-16
Herod the Great, who ruled Judea when Jesus was born, was known as "King of the Jews." He was so power hungry that he disposed of every political rival as well as many family members. You can imagine Herod's alarm when the magi inquired in Jerusalem, "Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews" (Matthew 2:2)? His scheme to find this king failed, so he ordered the killing of innocent boys two years old and under living in and around Bethlehem (vs. 16).
Clearly, Herod worshiped power. So have history's dictators and many of today's corrupt politicians or CEOs. Lest we think the "power idol" can't possibly reach our own lives, we should remind ourselves of Paul's words to his dear friends in Philippi and to us: "Do nothing out of selfish ambition...in humility consider others better than yourselves" (Philippians 2:3).
Only Jesus has the right to rule our lives, and He beckons us to follow Him. He took on our very nature; all power belongs to Him!
Insight: "We don't have to surrender our lives to key people if we know the Keeper of the Keys." (Anonymous)
Topic: +DEV+ The Power Idol
The Power Idol
"I am the Living One; I was dead, and behold I am alive forever and ever! And I hold they keys of death and Hades" (Revelation 1:18)!
Scripture Focus: Matthew 2:7-16
Herod the Great, who ruled Judea when Jesus was born, was known as "King of the Jews." He was so power hungry that he disposed of every political rival as well as many family members. You can imagine Herod's alarm when the magi inquired in Jerusalem, "Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews" (Matthew 2:2)? His scheme to find this king failed, so he ordered the killing of innocent boys two years old and under living in and around Bethlehem (vs. 16).
Clearly, Herod worshiped power. So have history's dictators and many of today's corrupt politicians or CEOs. Lest we think the "power idol" can't possibly reach our own lives, we should remind ourselves of Paul's words to his dear friends in Philippi and to us: "Do nothing out of selfish ambition...in humility consider others better than yourselves" (Philippians 2:3).
Only Jesus has the right to rule our lives, and He beckons us to follow Him. He took on our very nature; all power belongs to Him!
Insight: "We don't have to surrender our lives to key people if we know the Keeper of the Keys." (Anonymous)
Sunday, November 14, 2010
+DEV+ The Elusive Idol
Date: November 14, 2010 7:43 PM
Topic: +DEV+ The Elusive Idol
The Elusive Idol
"Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, 'Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you'" (Hebrews 13:5).
Scripture Focus: Colossians 3:1-11
The TV game show Deal or No Deal serves suspense and entertainment. Will the contestant take the deal of $110,000 or turn it down in hopes of winning the bigger $1 million prize? Often, those who decline a big sum of money, hoping for even more, leave with very little in the end. The lure of getting more drives hard, doesn't it? And it plays itself out beyond television game shows and right into our hearts.
When asked how much money would satisfy him, one wealthy man replied, "Just a little more." As has been true since the Garden of Eden, contentment still seems to be an elusive idol, always just out of reach when greed is the motivator. True contentment comes when we find riches in a relationship with God. Nothing on this earth goes with us when we die. But we can rejoice now with the psalmist who finally realized, "Whom have I in heaven but you? Being with you, I desire nothing on earth" (Psalm 73:25). That's a deal we never want to turn down!
Insight: Money may fill a person's pocket, but only God can fill the heart. Money will flee from us, but God won't.
Topic: +DEV+ The Elusive Idol
The Elusive Idol
"Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, 'Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you'" (Hebrews 13:5).
Scripture Focus: Colossians 3:1-11
The TV game show Deal or No Deal serves suspense and entertainment. Will the contestant take the deal of $110,000 or turn it down in hopes of winning the bigger $1 million prize? Often, those who decline a big sum of money, hoping for even more, leave with very little in the end. The lure of getting more drives hard, doesn't it? And it plays itself out beyond television game shows and right into our hearts.
When asked how much money would satisfy him, one wealthy man replied, "Just a little more." As has been true since the Garden of Eden, contentment still seems to be an elusive idol, always just out of reach when greed is the motivator. True contentment comes when we find riches in a relationship with God. Nothing on this earth goes with us when we die. But we can rejoice now with the psalmist who finally realized, "Whom have I in heaven but you? Being with you, I desire nothing on earth" (Psalm 73:25). That's a deal we never want to turn down!
Insight: Money may fill a person's pocket, but only God can fill the heart. Money will flee from us, but God won't.
Thursday, November 11, 2010
+DEV+ The Me-First Ido
Date: November 11, 2010 6:45 PM
Topic: +DEV+ The Me-First Idol
The Me-First Idol
"But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow..." (Matthew 6:33-34a).
Scripture Focus: Haggai 1:1-11
The prophet Haggai had a sharp message from the Lord for the Jews who had come out of captivity and had delayed in rebuilding God's temple. He could hardly put it any more plainly: hardship and drought were the hallmarks of their lives because they left the Lord's house in ruin while each of them was busy with his own house (Haggai 1:9). The sting of that rebuke must have been convicting, much as it is to us today when we confess that our focus is anywhere but on the Lord. Often our greatest priorities are, indeed, our houses and earthly pursuits.
Jesus Christ's own words to us urge us to seek Him before all other things and then see how what we long for will be ours as well. This is no magic formula...pray to God and go to church and you'll get a new car and house. Rather, Jesus invites us to place our heart's desire on Him and His righteousness, and we will see our hopes and longings shift and line up with what God also wants for us. He knows what's best!
Insight: God should come first in our lives, and we should hold all that we are and have in trust for Him. The Christian life is a stewardship.
Topic: +DEV+ The Me-First Idol
The Me-First Idol
"But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow..." (Matthew 6:33-34a).
Scripture Focus: Haggai 1:1-11
The prophet Haggai had a sharp message from the Lord for the Jews who had come out of captivity and had delayed in rebuilding God's temple. He could hardly put it any more plainly: hardship and drought were the hallmarks of their lives because they left the Lord's house in ruin while each of them was busy with his own house (Haggai 1:9). The sting of that rebuke must have been convicting, much as it is to us today when we confess that our focus is anywhere but on the Lord. Often our greatest priorities are, indeed, our houses and earthly pursuits.
Jesus Christ's own words to us urge us to seek Him before all other things and then see how what we long for will be ours as well. This is no magic formula...pray to God and go to church and you'll get a new car and house. Rather, Jesus invites us to place our heart's desire on Him and His righteousness, and we will see our hopes and longings shift and line up with what God also wants for us. He knows what's best!
Insight: God should come first in our lives, and we should hold all that we are and have in trust for Him. The Christian life is a stewardship.
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
+DEV+ A Few Good Men
Date: November 10, 2010 7:12 PM
Topic: +DEV+ A Few Good Men
A Few Good Men
"You then, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus...Endure hardship with us like a good soldier of Jesus Christ" (2 Timothy 2:1, 3).
Scripture Focus: Daniel 6:10-16
The Marines are looking for a few good men. So is God! Actually, He is looking for many good men-and women-who will resist the pressure to honor twenty-first century idols. With courage and faith these are people who struggle daily to keep God on the throne of life so that materialism, pleasure, fame, and other diversions do not take His place. These people include you and me!
Though Daniel and his friends were taken from Jerusalem and transplanted in Babylon, they maintained their strong faith in the true God. Daniel's friends refused to bow down to King Nebuchadnezzar's image (Daniel 3), though failure to do so meant death. Years later, Daniel kept up his practice of praying to God three times daily, even as King Darius' decree forbid anyone to pray to anyone except him for 30 days. Those who defied the order would be thrown into a lions' den (Daniel 6).
In every crisis God protected each of His uncompromising servants. Will we trust Him to protect us when we refuse to bow to the culture's idols?
Insight: Those who dare to stand for the Truth, find God standing alongside them. We are never alone!
Topic: +DEV+ A Few Good Men
A Few Good Men
"You then, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus...Endure hardship with us like a good soldier of Jesus Christ" (2 Timothy 2:1, 3).
Scripture Focus: Daniel 6:10-16
The Marines are looking for a few good men. So is God! Actually, He is looking for many good men-and women-who will resist the pressure to honor twenty-first century idols. With courage and faith these are people who struggle daily to keep God on the throne of life so that materialism, pleasure, fame, and other diversions do not take His place. These people include you and me!
Though Daniel and his friends were taken from Jerusalem and transplanted in Babylon, they maintained their strong faith in the true God. Daniel's friends refused to bow down to King Nebuchadnezzar's image (Daniel 3), though failure to do so meant death. Years later, Daniel kept up his practice of praying to God three times daily, even as King Darius' decree forbid anyone to pray to anyone except him for 30 days. Those who defied the order would be thrown into a lions' den (Daniel 6).
In every crisis God protected each of His uncompromising servants. Will we trust Him to protect us when we refuse to bow to the culture's idols?
Insight: Those who dare to stand for the Truth, find God standing alongside them. We are never alone!
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
+DEV+ How Close to Judgment?
Date: November 9, 2010 9:30 PM
Topic: +DEV+ How Close to Judgment?
How Close to Judgment?
"Even while they were in their kingdom, enjoying your great goodness to them in the spacious and fertile land you gave them, they did not serve you..." (Nehemiah 9:35).
Scripture Focus: 2 Kings 17:5-20
The Northern Kingdom of Israel went into captivity about 150 years before Judah, the Southern Kingdom, met a similar fate. The reason for Israel's earlier demise? She embraced idolatry proudly under a succession of wicked kings. On the other hand, some of Judah's kings were righteous and instituted revivals in which the people destroyed their idols and returned to God. Still, in the long run, both kingdoms ignored God's blessings and His pleadings to worship Him.
Christians in Western nations often ask how much longer God will withhold the judgment we deserve. It seems our moral and spiritual failures are carrying us swiftly downhill, speeding to destruction. Idols like humanism, materialism, secularism, and hedonism push us on this perilous ride.
God alone has the right to determine the time and nature of judgment. Here and now we can pray for revival and stand resolutely for righteousness, knowing that the One who has stood in our place shouldered all the wrath of God for us.
Insight: When evil advances, Christians may help thwart it and see God draw a nation to Himself one heart at a time.
Topic: +DEV+ How Close to Judgment?
How Close to Judgment?
"Even while they were in their kingdom, enjoying your great goodness to them in the spacious and fertile land you gave them, they did not serve you..." (Nehemiah 9:35).
Scripture Focus: 2 Kings 17:5-20
The Northern Kingdom of Israel went into captivity about 150 years before Judah, the Southern Kingdom, met a similar fate. The reason for Israel's earlier demise? She embraced idolatry proudly under a succession of wicked kings. On the other hand, some of Judah's kings were righteous and instituted revivals in which the people destroyed their idols and returned to God. Still, in the long run, both kingdoms ignored God's blessings and His pleadings to worship Him.
Christians in Western nations often ask how much longer God will withhold the judgment we deserve. It seems our moral and spiritual failures are carrying us swiftly downhill, speeding to destruction. Idols like humanism, materialism, secularism, and hedonism push us on this perilous ride.
God alone has the right to determine the time and nature of judgment. Here and now we can pray for revival and stand resolutely for righteousness, knowing that the One who has stood in our place shouldered all the wrath of God for us.
Insight: When evil advances, Christians may help thwart it and see God draw a nation to Himself one heart at a time.
Monday, November 8, 2010
+DEV+ Fishing for Attention
Date: November 8, 2010 9:53 PM
Topic: +DEV+ Fishing for Attention
Fishing for Attention
"'So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honored by men'" (Matthew 6:2a).
Scripture Focus: Matthew 6:1-8
The most religious people in Jesus' day were not honoring God. Instead, they drew attention to themselves. Jesus called them hypocrites. Their charitable giving was attended by trumpets, and their ostentatious praying was done in public so those who heard them would be impressed. Jesus cautioned His listeners not to be like those vain religious showoffs.
Yet here we are displaying 21st century versions of that very thing. It's easy to judge the Pharisees. The very fact that we want to do so shows that we are more proud than we care to admit. We may not be attended by trumpets or give loud prayers in public, but most of us are not unfamiliar with expressions of false modesty, of fishing for compliments, and of completing our service but relishing the praise more than the opportunity to serve.
Let's submit our motives to the Lord for a checkup. Do we give, sing in a worship team, volunteer, chair a committee, or preach to be admired and praised? Or do we seek to honor God?
Insight: Those who fish for compliments do so under the watchful eyes of Someone whose scrutiny exceeds that of a game warden.
Topic: +DEV+ Fishing for Attention
Fishing for Attention
"'So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honored by men'" (Matthew 6:2a).
Scripture Focus: Matthew 6:1-8
The most religious people in Jesus' day were not honoring God. Instead, they drew attention to themselves. Jesus called them hypocrites. Their charitable giving was attended by trumpets, and their ostentatious praying was done in public so those who heard them would be impressed. Jesus cautioned His listeners not to be like those vain religious showoffs.
Yet here we are displaying 21st century versions of that very thing. It's easy to judge the Pharisees. The very fact that we want to do so shows that we are more proud than we care to admit. We may not be attended by trumpets or give loud prayers in public, but most of us are not unfamiliar with expressions of false modesty, of fishing for compliments, and of completing our service but relishing the praise more than the opportunity to serve.
Let's submit our motives to the Lord for a checkup. Do we give, sing in a worship team, volunteer, chair a committee, or preach to be admired and praised? Or do we seek to honor God?
Insight: Those who fish for compliments do so under the watchful eyes of Someone whose scrutiny exceeds that of a game warden.
+DEV+ Keep-Away Idols
Date: November 7, 2010 7:05 PM
Topic: +DEV+ Keep-Away Idols
Keep-Away Idols
"Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another - and all the more as you see the Day approaching" (Hebrews 10:25).
Scripture Focus: 2 Kings 12:25-33
After uniting ten tribes of Israel into the Northern Kingdom, Jeroboam forged a plan to keep them from returning to Jerusalem in the Southern Kingdom to worship God in His temple. The temple, after all, was God's appointed place of worship. Quickly, Jeroboam set up golden calves in two Northern Kingdom cities, Bethel and Dan, and directed his subjects to worship them. The golden calves were "keep-away idols."
"Keep-away idols" are those things we let stand in the way of worshiping God as He has commanded us. They direct our attention elsewhere. One of the best ways I know to give due honor to the Lord is by respecting the Sabbath day. But our "keep-away idols" work hard against that! Sunday mornings seem to be the prime time for kids' sport practices and games, for leisurely hours at cafes, for catching up on chores at home, and of course for sleeping in.
Let's not keep God away, but draw near to Him instead.
Insight: A church's signboard announced: "If absence makes the heart grow fonder, some people must really love church." nder, some people must really love church."
Topic: +DEV+ Keep-Away Idols
Keep-Away Idols
"Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another - and all the more as you see the Day approaching" (Hebrews 10:25).
Scripture Focus: 2 Kings 12:25-33
After uniting ten tribes of Israel into the Northern Kingdom, Jeroboam forged a plan to keep them from returning to Jerusalem in the Southern Kingdom to worship God in His temple. The temple, after all, was God's appointed place of worship. Quickly, Jeroboam set up golden calves in two Northern Kingdom cities, Bethel and Dan, and directed his subjects to worship them. The golden calves were "keep-away idols."
"Keep-away idols" are those things we let stand in the way of worshiping God as He has commanded us. They direct our attention elsewhere. One of the best ways I know to give due honor to the Lord is by respecting the Sabbath day. But our "keep-away idols" work hard against that! Sunday mornings seem to be the prime time for kids' sport practices and games, for leisurely hours at cafes, for catching up on chores at home, and of course for sleeping in.
Let's not keep God away, but draw near to Him instead.
Insight: A church's signboard announced: "If absence makes the heart grow fonder, some people must really love church." nder, some people must really love church."
Thursday, November 4, 2010
+DEV+ The Idol in the Mirror
Date: November 4, 2010 11:09 PM
Topic: +DEV+ The Idol in the Mirror
The Idol in the Mirror
"To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams. For rebellion is like the sin of divination, and arrogance like the evil of idolatry" (1 Samuel 15:22b-23a).
Scripture Focus: 1 Samuel 15:16-23
"Mirror, mirror on the wall, who's the fairest of them all?" This fairy tale question reminds us that arrogance and truth are usually poles apart.
What do you see when you look in the mirror? Is it a reflection of a humbled, sinful person whose daily strives to honor God? Or do you see a likeness of a self-righteous person trying to be more important than God?
Before becoming Israel's first king, Saul was humble. He hid when the prophet Samuel looked for the right son of Kish to anoint (1 Samuel 10:20-22). As king his self-esteem grew with the passing of time. While he became big in his own eyes, the Lord became small. He followed his own will and even set up a monument in his own honor (1 Samuel 15:12). Eventually, Samuel informed Saul that the Lord had rejected him as king (vs. 23).
Whom do we worship as greatest of all? When we come to long for God alone, the image of ourselves grows smaller and the reflection of Him becomes greater (See John 3:30.).
Insight: Our vision is clear when God is big in our eyes and we are small. Ask Him to open the eyes of your heart.
Topic: +DEV+ The Idol in the Mirror
The Idol in the Mirror
"To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams. For rebellion is like the sin of divination, and arrogance like the evil of idolatry" (1 Samuel 15:22b-23a).
Scripture Focus: 1 Samuel 15:16-23
"Mirror, mirror on the wall, who's the fairest of them all?" This fairy tale question reminds us that arrogance and truth are usually poles apart.
What do you see when you look in the mirror? Is it a reflection of a humbled, sinful person whose daily strives to honor God? Or do you see a likeness of a self-righteous person trying to be more important than God?
Before becoming Israel's first king, Saul was humble. He hid when the prophet Samuel looked for the right son of Kish to anoint (1 Samuel 10:20-22). As king his self-esteem grew with the passing of time. While he became big in his own eyes, the Lord became small. He followed his own will and even set up a monument in his own honor (1 Samuel 15:12). Eventually, Samuel informed Saul that the Lord had rejected him as king (vs. 23).
Whom do we worship as greatest of all? When we come to long for God alone, the image of ourselves grows smaller and the reflection of Him becomes greater (See John 3:30.).
Insight: Our vision is clear when God is big in our eyes and we are small. Ask Him to open the eyes of your heart.
+DEV+ Anti-Faith Billboards
Date: November 4, 2010 1:03 AM
Topic: +DEV+ Anti-Faith Billboards
Anti-Faith Billboards
"The fool says in his heart, 'There is no God.' They are corrupt, their deeds are vile; there is no one who does good" (Psalm 14:2).
Scripture Focus: Psalm 14:1-7
Late in 2008 eleven provocative billboards appeared in prominent locations around Colorado Springs and Denver. Each showed clouds against a dark, empty background. The question, "Do you believe in God?" was in the upper left. The lower right read, "You are not alone."
The Colorado Coalition of Reason, whose members identify themselves as atheists, humanists, and freethinkers, funded the billboards to build a support system for others who do not believe in God.
Psalm 14:1 describes those who discount the existence of God as corrupt and vile fools. Atheists are not actually faithless. It's just that they've anchored their faith in themselves instead of in God, elevating their own ideas over Scripture. Refusing to accept the Bible's portrayal of a personal God, they carve their own path through life, a way that leads to death (Proverbs 14:12).
Sometimes we who know the Savior live our lives ignoring our personal God, too. I'd rather be a "living billboard" to show God's work in my life.
Insight: An unbeliever's mind can manufacture adversarial thoughts about God, but God can enlighten even the most rebellious mind.
Topic: +DEV+ Anti-Faith Billboards
Anti-Faith Billboards
"The fool says in his heart, 'There is no God.' They are corrupt, their deeds are vile; there is no one who does good" (Psalm 14:2).
Scripture Focus: Psalm 14:1-7
Late in 2008 eleven provocative billboards appeared in prominent locations around Colorado Springs and Denver. Each showed clouds against a dark, empty background. The question, "Do you believe in God?" was in the upper left. The lower right read, "You are not alone."
The Colorado Coalition of Reason, whose members identify themselves as atheists, humanists, and freethinkers, funded the billboards to build a support system for others who do not believe in God.
Psalm 14:1 describes those who discount the existence of God as corrupt and vile fools. Atheists are not actually faithless. It's just that they've anchored their faith in themselves instead of in God, elevating their own ideas over Scripture. Refusing to accept the Bible's portrayal of a personal God, they carve their own path through life, a way that leads to death (Proverbs 14:12).
Sometimes we who know the Savior live our lives ignoring our personal God, too. I'd rather be a "living billboard" to show God's work in my life.
Insight: An unbeliever's mind can manufacture adversarial thoughts about God, but God can enlighten even the most rebellious mind.
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
+DEV+ Foolish Celebrations
Date: November 2, 2010 9:14 PM
Topic: +DEV+ Foolish Celebrations
Foolish Celebrations
"The Lord detests men of perverse heart but he delights in those whose ways are blameless. Be sure of this: The wicked will not go unpunished..." (Proverbs 11:20-21).
Scripture Focus: Acts 7:37-43
The human race has achieved some remarkable technological feats. We have made space travel almost routine. Through satellite TV, cell phones and computers we have almost instant access to the world. But if we dare to celebrate our accomplishments without acknowledging God, we are in for a rude awakening.
When the Children of Israel grew tired of waiting for Moses to return from his conference with God on Mount Sinai, they begged Aaron to make gods for them. He obliged, and soon a golden calf emerged from the people's donations of gold jewelry. The next day they rose early to sacrifice to the god they had made, celebrating with gluttony and revelry (Exodus 32:6; Acts 7:41). The sordid event led to divine judgment in the form of a plague (Exodus 32:35).
Celebrate the One worthy of praise! Every joy we have ever known is anchored in the God Who was and is and is to come, in Whom we live and move and have our being (Acts 17:28).
Insight: It is foolish to worship what we make. It is wise to worship the One who made us and guides our lives
Topic: +DEV+ Foolish Celebrations
Foolish Celebrations
"The Lord detests men of perverse heart but he delights in those whose ways are blameless. Be sure of this: The wicked will not go unpunished..." (Proverbs 11:20-21).
Scripture Focus: Acts 7:37-43
The human race has achieved some remarkable technological feats. We have made space travel almost routine. Through satellite TV, cell phones and computers we have almost instant access to the world. But if we dare to celebrate our accomplishments without acknowledging God, we are in for a rude awakening.
When the Children of Israel grew tired of waiting for Moses to return from his conference with God on Mount Sinai, they begged Aaron to make gods for them. He obliged, and soon a golden calf emerged from the people's donations of gold jewelry. The next day they rose early to sacrifice to the god they had made, celebrating with gluttony and revelry (Exodus 32:6; Acts 7:41). The sordid event led to divine judgment in the form of a plague (Exodus 32:35).
Celebrate the One worthy of praise! Every joy we have ever known is anchored in the God Who was and is and is to come, in Whom we live and move and have our being (Acts 17:28).
Insight: It is foolish to worship what we make. It is wise to worship the One who made us and guides our lives
Monday, November 1, 2010
+DEV+ God Is Amazing
Date: November 1, 2010 9:55 PM
Topic: +DEV+ God Is Amazing
God Is Amazing
"'I have indeed seen the oppression of my people in Egypt. I have heard their groaning and have come down to set them free'" (Acts 7:34).
Scripture Focus: Acts 7:30-36
Do you sometimes feel inadequate as you confront a culture that Satan, the god of this age, has blinded to spiritual truth? Does it appear the culture's goal is to cast aside every trace of God's influence? He is unwelcome in our educational system, in entertainment, in politics, and even in our celebrations of Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. Don't forget what God accomplished through His servant Moses in idolatrous Egypt.
Our amazing God launched ten plagues against Egypt, exposing Egypt's gods as false and powerless. For example, God eclipsed Re, Egypt's sun god by plunging Egypt into darkness.
After releasing the Hebrews, Pharaoh sent his cavalry in pursuit of them, but God parted the Red Sea so His people could cross safely. And then He closed the path and enveloped the whole Egyptian cavalry in the rushing water.
Christians may be a minority force in today's culture wars, but remember Whom you serve. Your God is always victorious.
Insight: With God in his life, the believer is invincible. No foe can defeat him; no trial can overcome him (see Romans 8:35-37).
Topic: +DEV+ God Is Amazing
God Is Amazing
"'I have indeed seen the oppression of my people in Egypt. I have heard their groaning and have come down to set them free'" (Acts 7:34).
Scripture Focus: Acts 7:30-36
Do you sometimes feel inadequate as you confront a culture that Satan, the god of this age, has blinded to spiritual truth? Does it appear the culture's goal is to cast aside every trace of God's influence? He is unwelcome in our educational system, in entertainment, in politics, and even in our celebrations of Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. Don't forget what God accomplished through His servant Moses in idolatrous Egypt.
Our amazing God launched ten plagues against Egypt, exposing Egypt's gods as false and powerless. For example, God eclipsed Re, Egypt's sun god by plunging Egypt into darkness.
After releasing the Hebrews, Pharaoh sent his cavalry in pursuit of them, but God parted the Red Sea so His people could cross safely. And then He closed the path and enveloped the whole Egyptian cavalry in the rushing water.
Christians may be a minority force in today's culture wars, but remember Whom you serve. Your God is always victorious.
Insight: With God in his life, the believer is invincible. No foe can defeat him; no trial can overcome him (see Romans 8:35-37).
+DEV+ Moses Chose to Serve God
Date: November 1, 2010 1:35 AM
Topic: +DEV+ Moses Chose to Serve God
Moses Chose to Serve God
"He [Moses] regarded disgrace for the sake of Christ as of greater value than the treasures of Egypt, because he was looking ahead to his reward" (Hebrews 11:26).
Scripture Focus: Hebrews 11:24-28
From babyhood to manhood, Moses lived in a palace. Raised as a prince in Egypt, he had access to enormous pleasures and vast treasures. However, he turned his back on it all to serve God. He chose to stand before Pharaoh and deliver God's summons: "Let my people go."
For forty years after God rescued His people from Pharaoh's clutches, Moses led the Hebrews through harsh wilderness. The going was tough, but he anticipated a reward that was infinitely more valuable than all he had left behind in Egypt.
We may never have an opportunity to renounce a life of luxury, but more than a few men and women have allowed the idols of pleasure and prosperity to keep them from serving God. Legitimate wealth is not evil, but it becomes so if we give it a higher priority than it merits. The apostle Paul wrote, "People who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires" (1 Timothy 6:9). Eternal riches are the reward of those who do God's will.
Insight: "God always gives His best to those who leave the choice to Him." (Anonymous)
Topic: +DEV+ Moses Chose to Serve God
Moses Chose to Serve God
"He [Moses] regarded disgrace for the sake of Christ as of greater value than the treasures of Egypt, because he was looking ahead to his reward" (Hebrews 11:26).
Scripture Focus: Hebrews 11:24-28
From babyhood to manhood, Moses lived in a palace. Raised as a prince in Egypt, he had access to enormous pleasures and vast treasures. However, he turned his back on it all to serve God. He chose to stand before Pharaoh and deliver God's summons: "Let my people go."
For forty years after God rescued His people from Pharaoh's clutches, Moses led the Hebrews through harsh wilderness. The going was tough, but he anticipated a reward that was infinitely more valuable than all he had left behind in Egypt.
We may never have an opportunity to renounce a life of luxury, but more than a few men and women have allowed the idols of pleasure and prosperity to keep them from serving God. Legitimate wealth is not evil, but it becomes so if we give it a higher priority than it merits. The apostle Paul wrote, "People who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires" (1 Timothy 6:9). Eternal riches are the reward of those who do God's will.
Insight: "God always gives His best to those who leave the choice to Him." (Anonymous)
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