Date: October 31, 2011 11:57 PM
Topic: +DEV+ We Are What We Worship
We Are What We Worship
"Those who make [idols] will be like them, and so will all who trust in them." (PSALM 115:8)
Scripture Focus: Psalm 115
The psalmist in our reading today makes what is, in effect, the spiritual equivalent of our common saying: "You are what you eat." By claiming that those who worship idols will take on idol-like characteristics, he is saying: "You become what you worship."
This truth carries with it a profound warning as well as a quickening hope. It warns us by revealing the life-shaping consequences of valuing, trusting, serving, pursuing, desiring, and devoting ourselves to the "idols" of our age. Those who worship power will become tyrants. Those who desire control will be controlled by that desire. Those who rely on their own strength will be proven weak.
Yet this principle also contains great hope. Those who have been rescued by the living God from serving idols will become like Him! As we, through God's empowering and transforming grace, grow to value, trust, and serve our Lord, we will begin to take on His characteristics. As we worship His holiness, we will be holy. As we esteem His wisdom, we will be wise. As we trust His strength, we will be strong.
Insight: In What Ways Do You See Your Life Shaped By What You Value Most?
Monday, October 31, 2011
+DEV+ Worship: Not an Individual Sport
Date: October 31, 2011 1:02 AM
Topic: +DEV+ Worship: Not an Individual Sport
Worship: Not an Individual Sport
"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: Nehemiah 8:1-8, Acts 2:42-47
It is often said, "If you want something done right, do it yourself." The more people involved, it seems, the more complicated, confusing, and confounding any project can become. (If you've ever served on a committee, you are particularly aware of this phenomenon.) It is tempting at times to adopt this same attitude in our Christian lives, especially when it comes to worship. More people in your church means more opinions and musical preferences; hence more "worship wars." Accordingly, many Christians today choose to retreat to more private forms of worship for their primary spiritual bread.
Yet there is a special place in God's salvation plan for the gathered worship of His people, without which our worshiping lives are incomplete. Complicated and awkward as it may be at times to worship alongside other people, the gathered worship of God's people paints a rich picture of the kind of unity for which Christ gave His life. Only gathered worshipers can show themselves to be a people "from every tribe and language and people and nation" (Revelation 5:9).
Insight: Though The Lord Encourages Private Worship As Part Of A Living Relationship With Him, Never Allow That To Eclipse The Importance Of Regular Corporate Worship.
Topic: +DEV+ Worship: Not an Individual Sport
Worship: Not an Individual Sport
"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: Nehemiah 8:1-8, Acts 2:42-47
It is often said, "If you want something done right, do it yourself." The more people involved, it seems, the more complicated, confusing, and confounding any project can become. (If you've ever served on a committee, you are particularly aware of this phenomenon.) It is tempting at times to adopt this same attitude in our Christian lives, especially when it comes to worship. More people in your church means more opinions and musical preferences; hence more "worship wars." Accordingly, many Christians today choose to retreat to more private forms of worship for their primary spiritual bread.
Yet there is a special place in God's salvation plan for the gathered worship of His people, without which our worshiping lives are incomplete. Complicated and awkward as it may be at times to worship alongside other people, the gathered worship of God's people paints a rich picture of the kind of unity for which Christ gave His life. Only gathered worshipers can show themselves to be a people "from every tribe and language and people and nation" (Revelation 5:9).
Insight: Though The Lord Encourages Private Worship As Part Of A Living Relationship With Him, Never Allow That To Eclipse The Importance Of Regular Corporate Worship.
Friday, October 28, 2011
+DEV+ A Meeting with Heaven
Date: October 28, 2011 12:52 AM
Topic: +DEV+ A Meeting with Heaven
A Meeting with Heaven
"But you have come to Mount Zion, to the heavenly Jerusalem, the city of the living God." (HEBREWS 12:22)
Scripture Focus: Hebrews 12:28-29
The author to the Hebrews makes an astonishing claim here about worship under the new covenant. He's writing to a congregation of Jews tempted to return to the visible, tangible worship of the old covenant. So he contrasts that kind of worship with the heavenly worship of the new covenant in order to persuade them of the superiority of Jesus. In essence, he claims that when new covenant Christians come to worship, they take part in the heavenly gathering of all God's people who have ever lived to worship the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
How might such a perspective change the way we view and experience worship in our churches? I admit that getting to church (and paying attention) is not always an easy thing on Sunday morning, especially for those with kids! But might not the truth that when we get there, we will commune with God Himself and with the whole gathering of God's people in heaven serve to motivate us to make a greater effort? May God grant us that perspective every week!
Insight: Our Worship Is Heavenly Because The Savior We Worship Now Sits In Heaven At God's Right Hand. Praise God Today For This Amazing Truth.
Topic: +DEV+ A Meeting with Heaven
A Meeting with Heaven
"But you have come to Mount Zion, to the heavenly Jerusalem, the city of the living God." (HEBREWS 12:22)
Scripture Focus: Hebrews 12:28-29
The author to the Hebrews makes an astonishing claim here about worship under the new covenant. He's writing to a congregation of Jews tempted to return to the visible, tangible worship of the old covenant. So he contrasts that kind of worship with the heavenly worship of the new covenant in order to persuade them of the superiority of Jesus. In essence, he claims that when new covenant Christians come to worship, they take part in the heavenly gathering of all God's people who have ever lived to worship the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
How might such a perspective change the way we view and experience worship in our churches? I admit that getting to church (and paying attention) is not always an easy thing on Sunday morning, especially for those with kids! But might not the truth that when we get there, we will commune with God Himself and with the whole gathering of God's people in heaven serve to motivate us to make a greater effort? May God grant us that perspective every week!
Insight: Our Worship Is Heavenly Because The Savior We Worship Now Sits In Heaven At God's Right Hand. Praise God Today For This Amazing Truth.
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
+DEV+ Vain Worship
Date: October 26, 2011 7:16 PM
Topic: +DEV+ Vain Worship
Vain Worship
"They worship me in vain; their teachings are but rules taught by men." (MARK 7:7)
Scripture Focus: Mark 7:1-13, Ephesians 2:11-22
This was certainly the last thing they wanted to hear. Everything to which they were devoted, everything about which they were passionate, and everything they did in service to God was futile, purposeless, vanity. In essence, this was Jesus' charge against the Pharisees who, on the outside, appeared to be resolutely devoted to God and His ways. Yet while they honored God with their lips, Jesus, invoking the words of Isaiah, regarded their worship as vain because their hearts were far from Him.
Naturally, we all tend to worship like the Pharisees. We want to approach God on our terms. We think as long as we outwardly say and do the right things, we can keep God at arm's length. Indeed, our hearts are far from Him. Yet God Himself provides the antidote to vain worship. Those whose hearts were once "far away, have been brought near by the blood of Christ" (Ephesians 2:13). The death and resurrection of Christ alone has the power to change our worship from vain to vibrant.
Insight: Do You Ever Feel You're Just "Going Through The Motions" In Worship? Let The Gospel Transform Us When We Feel That Way.
Topic: +DEV+ Vain Worship
Vain Worship
"They worship me in vain; their teachings are but rules taught by men." (MARK 7:7)
Scripture Focus: Mark 7:1-13, Ephesians 2:11-22
This was certainly the last thing they wanted to hear. Everything to which they were devoted, everything about which they were passionate, and everything they did in service to God was futile, purposeless, vanity. In essence, this was Jesus' charge against the Pharisees who, on the outside, appeared to be resolutely devoted to God and His ways. Yet while they honored God with their lips, Jesus, invoking the words of Isaiah, regarded their worship as vain because their hearts were far from Him.
Naturally, we all tend to worship like the Pharisees. We want to approach God on our terms. We think as long as we outwardly say and do the right things, we can keep God at arm's length. Indeed, our hearts are far from Him. Yet God Himself provides the antidote to vain worship. Those whose hearts were once "far away, have been brought near by the blood of Christ" (Ephesians 2:13). The death and resurrection of Christ alone has the power to change our worship from vain to vibrant.
Insight: Do You Ever Feel You're Just "Going Through The Motions" In Worship? Let The Gospel Transform Us When We Feel That Way.
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
+DEV+ The Holy Spirit in Worship
Date: October 25, 2011 10:09 PM
Topic: +DEV+ The Holy Spirit in Worship
The Holy Spirit in Worship
"[The Spirit] will bring glory to me by taking from what is mine and making it known to you." (JOHN 16:14)
Scripture Focus: John 16:4-15, Philippians 3
I imagine Jesus' disciples would have slumped a bit in their seats at the news. Jesus, their companion and teacher for the past three years, would soon be leaving them. What were they to do in His absence? How would they have the courage or strength to continue the work He had charged them to do? Not only that, but how would a band of Jewish tradesmen who routinely missed the significance of Jesus' message during His earthly ministry ever become the founders of the church and authors of the New Testament?
Jesus' answer to such apprehension is the Holy Spirit. The "Helper" whom Jesus would send to His church would be the one who would "guide them into all the truth" (John 16:13), and "convict the world of sin and righteousness and judgment" (16:8). In other words, the Spirit would point them to Jesus. Like flood lights on the front of a mansion whose purpose is to draw attention to the beauty of the house, the Holy Spirit illumines our Lord to us when He seems far away. Let's give praise to the Spirit today!
Insight: Does Jesus Ever Loom Small On The Horizon Of Your Life Or Worship? Ask God To Illumine You With His Spirit So You Might See More Of Jesus!
Topic: +DEV+ The Holy Spirit in Worship
The Holy Spirit in Worship
"[The Spirit] will bring glory to me by taking from what is mine and making it known to you." (JOHN 16:14)
Scripture Focus: John 16:4-15, Philippians 3
I imagine Jesus' disciples would have slumped a bit in their seats at the news. Jesus, their companion and teacher for the past three years, would soon be leaving them. What were they to do in His absence? How would they have the courage or strength to continue the work He had charged them to do? Not only that, but how would a band of Jewish tradesmen who routinely missed the significance of Jesus' message during His earthly ministry ever become the founders of the church and authors of the New Testament?
Jesus' answer to such apprehension is the Holy Spirit. The "Helper" whom Jesus would send to His church would be the one who would "guide them into all the truth" (John 16:13), and "convict the world of sin and righteousness and judgment" (16:8). In other words, the Spirit would point them to Jesus. Like flood lights on the front of a mansion whose purpose is to draw attention to the beauty of the house, the Holy Spirit illumines our Lord to us when He seems far away. Let's give praise to the Spirit today!
Insight: Does Jesus Ever Loom Small On The Horizon Of Your Life Or Worship? Ask God To Illumine You With His Spirit So You Might See More Of Jesus!
Monday, October 24, 2011
Date: October 24, 2011 7:11 PM
Topic: +DEV+ Worship the Son
Worship the Son
"Then the man said, 'Lord, I believe,' and he worshiped him." (JOHN 9:38)
Scripture Focus: Psalm 2
It certainly would have raised a stir. Since their wanderings on the plains east of Egypt, the Israelites would have known to worship the one true God and the one true God only. This would explain, of course, the outrage that ensued when a Jewish rabbi repeatedly - without hesitation or rebuke - received worship from men and women. Foreigners fell down and worshiped Him days after His birth (Matthew 2:11). His disciples worshiped Him when they saw Him command the wind and waves (Matthew 14:33). A man born blind, seeing Jesus for the first time, fell down and worshiped Him (John 9:38). Who is this Man who receives worship?
He is no mere man. He is the very Son of God who took on human flesh. He has existed from all eternity (John 1:1). He created the world (1:3), and sustains it by His power (Hebrews 1:3). He is equal to the Father (John 10:30). Yet in history, He took on a human nature only to lay it down in death and take it up again in eternal life. Worthy is the Lamb who was slain!
Insight: Jesus, As Much As The Father And The Spirit, Is Worthy Of Our Worship. Let His Work For You Inspire And Encourage Your Worship This Day.
Topic: +DEV+ Worship the Son
Worship the Son
"Then the man said, 'Lord, I believe,' and he worshiped him." (JOHN 9:38)
Scripture Focus: Psalm 2
It certainly would have raised a stir. Since their wanderings on the plains east of Egypt, the Israelites would have known to worship the one true God and the one true God only. This would explain, of course, the outrage that ensued when a Jewish rabbi repeatedly - without hesitation or rebuke - received worship from men and women. Foreigners fell down and worshiped Him days after His birth (Matthew 2:11). His disciples worshiped Him when they saw Him command the wind and waves (Matthew 14:33). A man born blind, seeing Jesus for the first time, fell down and worshiped Him (John 9:38). Who is this Man who receives worship?
He is no mere man. He is the very Son of God who took on human flesh. He has existed from all eternity (John 1:1). He created the world (1:3), and sustains it by His power (Hebrews 1:3). He is equal to the Father (John 10:30). Yet in history, He took on a human nature only to lay it down in death and take it up again in eternal life. Worthy is the Lamb who was slain!
Insight: Jesus, As Much As The Father And The Spirit, Is Worthy Of Our Worship. Let His Work For You Inspire And Encourage Your Worship This Day.
Sunday, October 23, 2011
+DEV+ A Response to Grace
Date: October 23, 2011 9:09 PM
Topic: +DEV+ A Response to Grace
A Response to Grace
"how much more, then, will the blood of Christ cleanse our conscience from acts that lead to death, so that we may serve the living God!" (HEBREWS 9:14)
Scripture Focus: Hebrews 9:11-22
The common view of religion today suggests that worship is something humans invented and performed to get God on their side. "If I pray enough, give enough, or serve enough, then God will bless me." Yet true worship never begins with us. Rather, true worship is always a response to the initiating grace of God. For the old covenant people of God, the exodus was the event that inspired countless songs of praise and devotion (see Exodus 15; Psalm 105). For generations to follow, the elderly would remind the younger that all their service to God - worship included - would not have been possible without God's redemption (Deuteronomy 6:20-25).
But now the greater exodus has come. Jesus Christ, the true Passover Lamb, has delivered us not from earthly servitude, but from the wrath of God, through the sacrifice of Himself on the cross. Far from requiring our worship to atone for our sins, God inspires our worship by atoning for them Himself through the work of Christ. Is your worship flagging? Then remember all that God has done!
Insight: Do You Ever Feel Unworthy To Worship God? Remember Today That God Has Qualified You Through Jesus.
Topic: +DEV+ A Response to Grace
A Response to Grace
"how much more, then, will the blood of Christ cleanse our conscience from acts that lead to death, so that we may serve the living God!" (HEBREWS 9:14)
Scripture Focus: Hebrews 9:11-22
The common view of religion today suggests that worship is something humans invented and performed to get God on their side. "If I pray enough, give enough, or serve enough, then God will bless me." Yet true worship never begins with us. Rather, true worship is always a response to the initiating grace of God. For the old covenant people of God, the exodus was the event that inspired countless songs of praise and devotion (see Exodus 15; Psalm 105). For generations to follow, the elderly would remind the younger that all their service to God - worship included - would not have been possible without God's redemption (Deuteronomy 6:20-25).
But now the greater exodus has come. Jesus Christ, the true Passover Lamb, has delivered us not from earthly servitude, but from the wrath of God, through the sacrifice of Himself on the cross. Far from requiring our worship to atone for our sins, God inspires our worship by atoning for them Himself through the work of Christ. Is your worship flagging? Then remember all that God has done!
Insight: Do You Ever Feel Unworthy To Worship God? Remember Today That God Has Qualified You Through Jesus.
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
+DEV+ Triune Worship
Date: October 19, 2011 7:42 PM
Topic: +DEV+ Triune Worship
Triune Worship
"Because you are sons, God sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, the Spirit who calls out, 'Abba, Father.'" (GALATIANS 4:6)
Scripture Focus: Galatians 4:1-7
As Christians, we have the great privilege of worshiping a God like no other. One aspect of our God that today is often acknowledged but rarely makes much practical difference in our worship is His triune nature. The God of Scripture is one (Deuteronomy 6:4), but He exists eternally in three persons: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. What difference should God's triune nature make for our worship of Him? To ask such a question is to plumb the depths of Christian theology and worship.
In short, we offer praise to each member of the Trinity for His role in our salvation. And as we draw our minds and hearts to one, they will irresistibly be drawn to the other two. As we remember the Father's plan to redeem us, we can't help but think of the execution of that plan in the sending of the Son. As we remember the Son, we think of the "Spirit of his Son" sent into our hearts. And as we think of the Spirit, our hearts cry out, "Abba, Father." Give praise to our triune God!
Insight: Our Worship Will Inevitably Reflect The God That We Know. How Does Your Worship Reflect The Triune God?
Topic: +DEV+ Triune Worship
Triune Worship
"Because you are sons, God sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, the Spirit who calls out, 'Abba, Father.'" (GALATIANS 4:6)
Scripture Focus: Galatians 4:1-7
As Christians, we have the great privilege of worshiping a God like no other. One aspect of our God that today is often acknowledged but rarely makes much practical difference in our worship is His triune nature. The God of Scripture is one (Deuteronomy 6:4), but He exists eternally in three persons: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. What difference should God's triune nature make for our worship of Him? To ask such a question is to plumb the depths of Christian theology and worship.
In short, we offer praise to each member of the Trinity for His role in our salvation. And as we draw our minds and hearts to one, they will irresistibly be drawn to the other two. As we remember the Father's plan to redeem us, we can't help but think of the execution of that plan in the sending of the Son. As we remember the Son, we think of the "Spirit of his Son" sent into our hearts. And as we think of the Spirit, our hearts cry out, "Abba, Father." Give praise to our triune God!
Insight: Our Worship Will Inevitably Reflect The God That We Know. How Does Your Worship Reflect The Triune God?
Monday, October 17, 2011
+DEV+ God is Looking for You
Date: October 17, 2011 7:36 PM
Topic: +DEV+ God is Looking for You
God is Looking for You
"Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks." (JOHN 4:23)
Scripture Focus: John 4:1-26
If anyone is on the outside, she is. This Samaritan woman's promiscuous lifestyle has led her to five different husbands during her lifetime. Her mixed Samaritan blood also keeps her outside the pure Jewish circles that surround her. So she chooses to draw water during the hottest time of the day, when she is sure to encounter no one.
But certainly to her disappointment, someone is already there. A man. A Jew. A rabbi. It could not be worse. But the news He brings her is unlike any she has heard. He offers her water that will quench an eternal thirst. Yet perhaps even more surprising than this, He tells her that God the Father is seeking people who will worship Him in spirit and in truth.
What a shock this must have been for a woman used to being on the outside, to know that God Himself was looking for people like her - not to judge, not to condemn, not to punish, but for the purpose of worshiping Him. May God find what He seeks in us also!
Insight: God is still seeking worshipers today. Has He been looking for you?
Topic: +DEV+ God is Looking for You
God is Looking for You
"Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks." (JOHN 4:23)
Scripture Focus: John 4:1-26
If anyone is on the outside, she is. This Samaritan woman's promiscuous lifestyle has led her to five different husbands during her lifetime. Her mixed Samaritan blood also keeps her outside the pure Jewish circles that surround her. So she chooses to draw water during the hottest time of the day, when she is sure to encounter no one.
But certainly to her disappointment, someone is already there. A man. A Jew. A rabbi. It could not be worse. But the news He brings her is unlike any she has heard. He offers her water that will quench an eternal thirst. Yet perhaps even more surprising than this, He tells her that God the Father is seeking people who will worship Him in spirit and in truth.
What a shock this must have been for a woman used to being on the outside, to know that God Himself was looking for people like her - not to judge, not to condemn, not to punish, but for the purpose of worshiping Him. May God find what He seeks in us also!
Insight: God is still seeking worshipers today. Has He been looking for you?
Sunday, October 16, 2011
+DEV+ Larger than Life
Date: October 16, 2011 9:03 PM
Topic: +DEV+ Larger than Life
Larger than Life
"The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy went and sold all he had and bought that field." (MATTHEW 13:44)
Scripture Focus: Matthew 13, Hebrews 12:1-2
Worship is the native language of the kingdom of heaven. And if the kingdom is as Jesus describes it here in these parables - that is, something so valuable for which we will joyfully lose all other things - then worship ought to be characterized by profound joy. Yet, I think if we're honest, our worship often is not saturated with the "solid joys and lasting treasures" which none but Zion's children know. At times, worship for me can become merely cerebral, a transfer of information rather than a joyful encounter with the living God. Other times, what I mistake as true joy in worship escapes my heart quickly after the benediction. The weight of everyday life descends yet again.
How can we become more joyful worshipers? What we need is a re-evaluation of our lives. If we value the kingdom of heaven above all else, then we will rejoice to speak its native language. The kingdom must be larger than everyday life. When you're known by Jesus, the Man who "sold all he had" and bought you, your joy is larger than life.
Insight: An Unhealthy Preoccupation With Life's Concerns Will Dampen Worship. Remember, You Are "Seated With Christ In Heaven." Let That Truth Saturate Your Worship.
Topic: +DEV+ Larger than Life
Larger than Life
"The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy went and sold all he had and bought that field." (MATTHEW 13:44)
Scripture Focus: Matthew 13, Hebrews 12:1-2
Worship is the native language of the kingdom of heaven. And if the kingdom is as Jesus describes it here in these parables - that is, something so valuable for which we will joyfully lose all other things - then worship ought to be characterized by profound joy. Yet, I think if we're honest, our worship often is not saturated with the "solid joys and lasting treasures" which none but Zion's children know. At times, worship for me can become merely cerebral, a transfer of information rather than a joyful encounter with the living God. Other times, what I mistake as true joy in worship escapes my heart quickly after the benediction. The weight of everyday life descends yet again.
How can we become more joyful worshipers? What we need is a re-evaluation of our lives. If we value the kingdom of heaven above all else, then we will rejoice to speak its native language. The kingdom must be larger than everyday life. When you're known by Jesus, the Man who "sold all he had" and bought you, your joy is larger than life.
Insight: An Unhealthy Preoccupation With Life's Concerns Will Dampen Worship. Remember, You Are "Seated With Christ In Heaven." Let That Truth Saturate Your Worship.
Friday, October 14, 2011
+DEV+ Warped Worship
Date: October 14, 2011 12:01 AM
Topic: +DEV+ Warped Worship
Warped Worship
"They exchanged the truth of God for a lie, and worshiped and served created things rather than the Creator - who is forever praised. Amen." (ROMANS 1:25)
Scripture Focus: Romans 1:18-32
Bob Dylan got it right when in 1979 he wrote, "You're gonna have to serve somebody." The question is not whether you worship, but what you worship. Often we live under the illusion that if we're not worshiping God, then we must not be worshiping anything at all; but the truth is that we all worship something. We all have ultimate allegiances. We all live for something and are devoted to something. Indeed, you're "gonna have to serve somebody."
It's often tempting to see the struggles in our lives as simply a matter of what we do or don't do. But Scripture diagnoses our problem as something much more fundamental - as a matter of what we worship. Therefore, if we have any hope of beginning to live for God, then what we worship must be changed. We must begin from the inside out. And that is exactly what the Lord promises to do in the Gospel: "I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you will be clean; I will cleanse you from all your impurities and from all your idols" (Ezekiel 36:25). Let's put Jesus Christ at the center of our worship.
Insight: Scripture Claims That Everyone Worships Something Or Someone. What Do You Worship? Ask The Lord To Increase Your Desire To Worship Him Alone.
Topic: +DEV+ Warped Worship
Warped Worship
"They exchanged the truth of God for a lie, and worshiped and served created things rather than the Creator - who is forever praised. Amen." (ROMANS 1:25)
Scripture Focus: Romans 1:18-32
Bob Dylan got it right when in 1979 he wrote, "You're gonna have to serve somebody." The question is not whether you worship, but what you worship. Often we live under the illusion that if we're not worshiping God, then we must not be worshiping anything at all; but the truth is that we all worship something. We all have ultimate allegiances. We all live for something and are devoted to something. Indeed, you're "gonna have to serve somebody."
It's often tempting to see the struggles in our lives as simply a matter of what we do or don't do. But Scripture diagnoses our problem as something much more fundamental - as a matter of what we worship. Therefore, if we have any hope of beginning to live for God, then what we worship must be changed. We must begin from the inside out. And that is exactly what the Lord promises to do in the Gospel: "I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you will be clean; I will cleanse you from all your impurities and from all your idols" (Ezekiel 36:25). Let's put Jesus Christ at the center of our worship.
Insight: Scripture Claims That Everyone Worships Something Or Someone. What Do You Worship? Ask The Lord To Increase Your Desire To Worship Him Alone.
Thursday, October 13, 2011
+DEV+ Worship: Expressing the Worthiness of God
Date: October 13, 2011 12:17 AM
Topic: +DEV+ Worship: Expressing the Worthiness of God
Worship: Expressing the Worthiness of God
"Ascribe to the LORD the glory due his name." (PSALM 96:8)
Scripture Focus: Psalm 96
What does it mean to worship? In many Christian circles today, the word "worship" has simply become synonymous with "singing." I would like to suggest a fuller definition to be used throughout these devotionals. Our English word, interestingly, does not have roots in the Bible. Rather, it comes from an Anglo Saxon root meaning literally "worth-ship." In other words, at its heart, to worship means to ascribe greatness or worthiness to someone or something.
This definition highlights the essential God-centeredness of Christian worship. God is most worthy to be praised. God is the greatest treasure that exists. He is most holy, most gracious, most wise, most compassionate, most jealous, and most glorious. Therefore worship begins and ends with God Himself - ascribing to Him the glory that is due His name.
Who is God? What is He like? Who am I compared to God? What has God done? What has He still promised to do? Answering such questions is at the heart of what it means to worship and "ascribe to the LORD the glory due his name."
Insight: In What Ways Do We Make Worship More About Us Than About God? Consider Who God Is And What He's Done. Praise Him For It!
Topic: +DEV+ Worship: Expressing the Worthiness of God
Worship: Expressing the Worthiness of God
"Ascribe to the LORD the glory due his name." (PSALM 96:8)
Scripture Focus: Psalm 96
What does it mean to worship? In many Christian circles today, the word "worship" has simply become synonymous with "singing." I would like to suggest a fuller definition to be used throughout these devotionals. Our English word, interestingly, does not have roots in the Bible. Rather, it comes from an Anglo Saxon root meaning literally "worth-ship." In other words, at its heart, to worship means to ascribe greatness or worthiness to someone or something.
This definition highlights the essential God-centeredness of Christian worship. God is most worthy to be praised. God is the greatest treasure that exists. He is most holy, most gracious, most wise, most compassionate, most jealous, and most glorious. Therefore worship begins and ends with God Himself - ascribing to Him the glory that is due His name.
Who is God? What is He like? Who am I compared to God? What has God done? What has He still promised to do? Answering such questions is at the heart of what it means to worship and "ascribe to the LORD the glory due his name."
Insight: In What Ways Do We Make Worship More About Us Than About God? Consider Who God Is And What He's Done. Praise Him For It!
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
+DEV+ Resisting the Devil
Date: October 11, 2011 10:55 PM
Topic: +DEV+ Resisting the Devil
Resisting the Devil
"For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are - yet was without sin." (HEBREWS 4:15)
Scripture Focus: Matthew 4:1-11
The Bible likens the devil to a "roaring lion looking for someone to devour" (1 Peter 5:8). He is the great deceiver who cunningly hunts his prey. He lies in wait looking for opportunities to steal, kill, and destroy.
1 Peter 5 goes on to say that if we resist the devil and stand firm in the faith, the God of all grace will restore us and make us strong, firm and steadfast. But how do we resist this roaring lion? By looking to Christ.
When Jesus was tempted in the wilderness, He met Satan's twisted words and empty claims with The Holy Word; "It is written." Satan skewed Scripture in a futile attempt to get Jesus to sin, but Jesus refuted him with Truth. It is imperative that we be students of God's Word so we can recognize when Scripture is used out of context or misinterpreted. We cannot depend on our own strength to resist Satan's enticements; we will surely succumb. Our only hope is to lean on the same omnipotent power of God's Word that our great High Priest used.
Insight: "I Write To You because You Are Strong, And The Word Of God Lives In You, And You Have Overcome The Evil One." (1 John 2:14)
Topic: +DEV+ Resisting the Devil
Resisting the Devil
"For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are - yet was without sin." (HEBREWS 4:15)
Scripture Focus: Matthew 4:1-11
The Bible likens the devil to a "roaring lion looking for someone to devour" (1 Peter 5:8). He is the great deceiver who cunningly hunts his prey. He lies in wait looking for opportunities to steal, kill, and destroy.
1 Peter 5 goes on to say that if we resist the devil and stand firm in the faith, the God of all grace will restore us and make us strong, firm and steadfast. But how do we resist this roaring lion? By looking to Christ.
When Jesus was tempted in the wilderness, He met Satan's twisted words and empty claims with The Holy Word; "It is written." Satan skewed Scripture in a futile attempt to get Jesus to sin, but Jesus refuted him with Truth. It is imperative that we be students of God's Word so we can recognize when Scripture is used out of context or misinterpreted. We cannot depend on our own strength to resist Satan's enticements; we will surely succumb. Our only hope is to lean on the same omnipotent power of God's Word that our great High Priest used.
Insight: "I Write To You because You Are Strong, And The Word Of God Lives In You, And You Have Overcome The Evil One." (1 John 2:14)
Monday, October 10, 2011
+DEV+ The Transforming Word
Date: October 10, 2011 9:09 PM
Topic: +DEV+ The Transforming Word
The Transforming Word
"The law of the Lord is perfect, reviving the soul. The statutes of the Lord are trustworthy, making wise the simple. The precepts of the Lord are right, giving joy to the heart" (PSALM 19:7-8A)
Scripture Focus: Psalm 19:7-14
Have you ever met someone who radiated Christ in their countenance so much so that you knew they were a follower of Jesus - even before they opened their mouth to say a word? Psalm 34:5 says that those who look to the Lord are radiant because the shadow of their shame has been removed. They are transformed by the Gospel of grace, and their lives produce those blessed fruits of the Spirit because they abide in the one True Vine (John 15:5, Galatians 5:22).
As Christians, we are called to "put off the old self" and to be renewed in the thoughts and attitudes of our minds. In fact, we are told to let our minds dwell on things that are true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, and praiseworthy (Philippians 4:8). The law of the Lord is the embodiment of all these attributes! It revives us, makes us wise, gladdens our hearts, enlightens our eyes, warns us, and brings great reward. As God's Word takes root in our hearts, it transforms us from the inside out, until we are radiant for Him.
Insight: "Do Not Conform Any Longer To The Pattern Of This World, But Be Transformed By The Renewing Of Your Mind." (Romans 12:2)
Topic: +DEV+ The Transforming Word
The Transforming Word
"The law of the Lord is perfect, reviving the soul. The statutes of the Lord are trustworthy, making wise the simple. The precepts of the Lord are right, giving joy to the heart" (PSALM 19:7-8A)
Scripture Focus: Psalm 19:7-14
Have you ever met someone who radiated Christ in their countenance so much so that you knew they were a follower of Jesus - even before they opened their mouth to say a word? Psalm 34:5 says that those who look to the Lord are radiant because the shadow of their shame has been removed. They are transformed by the Gospel of grace, and their lives produce those blessed fruits of the Spirit because they abide in the one True Vine (John 15:5, Galatians 5:22).
As Christians, we are called to "put off the old self" and to be renewed in the thoughts and attitudes of our minds. In fact, we are told to let our minds dwell on things that are true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, and praiseworthy (Philippians 4:8). The law of the Lord is the embodiment of all these attributes! It revives us, makes us wise, gladdens our hearts, enlightens our eyes, warns us, and brings great reward. As God's Word takes root in our hearts, it transforms us from the inside out, until we are radiant for Him.
Insight: "Do Not Conform Any Longer To The Pattern Of This World, But Be Transformed By The Renewing Of Your Mind." (Romans 12:2)
Sunday, October 9, 2011
+DEV+ The True Mirror
Date: October 9, 2011 9:31 PM
Topic: +DEV+ The True Mirror
The True Mirror
"But the man who looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues to do this, not forgetting what he has heard, but doing it - he will be blessed in what he does." (JAMES 1:25)
Scripture Focus: James 1:19-27
In His Sermon on the Mount, Jesus said, "Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father" (Matthew 7:21). The Lord of all creation cannot be fooled by lip service, for He looks straight into the heart. Only those who confess their sin, repent of it, and trust in the finished work of Christ for salvation will be saved. True faith in Christ yields holy fruit in the believer's life.
In the same way, we are told in James 1:22 to not merely be hearers of the Word, but doers. The Word of God is a true mirror that never lies. It does not flatter the one who takes time to study it; rather, it accurately reveals the stains of sin. Then it points to the only hope a sinner has of being washed completely clean: the blood of Jesus.
Let us not eye God's Word with a fleeting glance. Instead, let us stoop down and peer into His perfect law, beholding its freedom, and pursue living it out with joy, faith in action!
Insight: May Our Faith Show Itself In Humble Obedience To The Lord Out Of Our Gratitude For His Wondrous Gift Of Salvation Through Christ.
Topic: +DEV+ The True Mirror
The True Mirror
"But the man who looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues to do this, not forgetting what he has heard, but doing it - he will be blessed in what he does." (JAMES 1:25)
Scripture Focus: James 1:19-27
In His Sermon on the Mount, Jesus said, "Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father" (Matthew 7:21). The Lord of all creation cannot be fooled by lip service, for He looks straight into the heart. Only those who confess their sin, repent of it, and trust in the finished work of Christ for salvation will be saved. True faith in Christ yields holy fruit in the believer's life.
In the same way, we are told in James 1:22 to not merely be hearers of the Word, but doers. The Word of God is a true mirror that never lies. It does not flatter the one who takes time to study it; rather, it accurately reveals the stains of sin. Then it points to the only hope a sinner has of being washed completely clean: the blood of Jesus.
Let us not eye God's Word with a fleeting glance. Instead, let us stoop down and peer into His perfect law, beholding its freedom, and pursue living it out with joy, faith in action!
Insight: May Our Faith Show Itself In Humble Obedience To The Lord Out Of Our Gratitude For His Wondrous Gift Of Salvation Through Christ.
Thursday, October 6, 2011
EVERY PERSON IN THE USA SHOULD SEE THIS!
Worth watching!!!!
It's incredible that this 1948 cartoon has come this close to depicting our current day situation. It's worth your time.
EVERY PERSON IN THE USA SHOULD SEE THIS! JUST THINK, THIS WAS FORECAST 62 YEARS AGO!
What can a cartoon produced in 1948, teach us today, that's of any value? You'd be very surprised! Pay close attention! Keep in mind this was done in '1948'. Keep telling yourself that as you view it.
This is one of the best I have ever seen. This should be viewed by every AMERICAN.
Click on 1948 Cartoon below -
1948 Cartoon
It's incredible that this 1948 cartoon has come this close to depicting our current day situation. It's worth your time.
EVERY PERSON IN THE USA SHOULD SEE THIS! JUST THINK, THIS WAS FORECAST 62 YEARS AGO!
What can a cartoon produced in 1948, teach us today, that's of any value? You'd be very surprised! Pay close attention! Keep in mind this was done in '1948'. Keep telling yourself that as you view it.
This is one of the best I have ever seen. This should be viewed by every AMERICAN.
Click on 1948 Cartoon below -
1948 Cartoon
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
+DEV+ Noble Character
Date: October 5, 2011 11:07 PM
Topic: +DEV+ Noble Character
Noble Character
"Now the Bereans were of more noble character than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true." (ACTS 17:11)
Scripture Focus: Acts 17:1-15
The Bereans were commended in the Bible for receiving the message of the Gospel with great eagerness and daily examination of the Scriptures. The Greek word used here for "examine" is also used to describe Herod as he examined Jesus (Luke 23:14-15) and the Sanhedrin's examination of Peter and John (Acts 4:9). The Bereans mulled over the evidence like jurors do at a trial. They did not simply accept what Paul said. Rather, they intently studied his words in light of God's Word.
God's Word is the "plumb line" that stands up to inspection. It is copiously filled with cross-references, historical facts, and prophecies fulfilled. There is no supplement for it! We must not simply accept the words of men, but rather go to The Source, peering through the lens of Truth. Jesus said that if His Word abides in us, we will know the Truth, and the Truth will set us free (John 8:31-32). May we, like the Bereans, receive God's Word readily and examine the Scriptures daily, seeing how the truth of Jesus sets us free indeed.
Insight: Can It Be Said That You Are Of "Noble Character"? Do You Eagerly Receive The Message Of Jesus Christ And Spend Time Searching The Scriptures?
Topic: +DEV+ Noble Character
Noble Character
"Now the Bereans were of more noble character than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true." (ACTS 17:11)
Scripture Focus: Acts 17:1-15
The Bereans were commended in the Bible for receiving the message of the Gospel with great eagerness and daily examination of the Scriptures. The Greek word used here for "examine" is also used to describe Herod as he examined Jesus (Luke 23:14-15) and the Sanhedrin's examination of Peter and John (Acts 4:9). The Bereans mulled over the evidence like jurors do at a trial. They did not simply accept what Paul said. Rather, they intently studied his words in light of God's Word.
God's Word is the "plumb line" that stands up to inspection. It is copiously filled with cross-references, historical facts, and prophecies fulfilled. There is no supplement for it! We must not simply accept the words of men, but rather go to The Source, peering through the lens of Truth. Jesus said that if His Word abides in us, we will know the Truth, and the Truth will set us free (John 8:31-32). May we, like the Bereans, receive God's Word readily and examine the Scriptures daily, seeing how the truth of Jesus sets us free indeed.
Insight: Can It Be Said That You Are Of "Noble Character"? Do You Eagerly Receive The Message Of Jesus Christ And Spend Time Searching The Scriptures?
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
+DEV+ Revival
Date: October 4, 2011 9:55 PM
Topic: +DEV+ Revival
Revival
"If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear and forgive their sin and will heal their land." (2 CHRONICLES 7:14)
Scripture Focus: Genesis 17:1-5
Before reading the Scriptures, a well known evangelist reminds us that we are about to hear the very words of God: "This is the Word of the Lord. Thanks be to God!" He is aware of the trap we can fall into of becoming dulled to the Bible and indifferent to its message. The Word of the Lord both commands and merits great reverence.
Nehemiah narrates a powerful scene of repentance and revival, and the stage is set with the reading of God's Law. As Ezra the Priest opens the Holy Book, the people stand to their feet, showing respect for the Word. They lift their hands in agreement, exclaiming: "Amen!" and then fall on their faces before the Lord, worshipping Him in humility. The people's hearts are so moved by what they hear that they begin to weep for their sin and guilt before God. But their mourning soon turns to jubilant celebration of God's grace and mercy toward them, for the joy of the LORD is their strength!
May God's Word fall upon our hearts also and cause revival.
Insight: It Is Important That We Engage In Corporate Worship And Sit Under The Teaching Of God's Word Often. Is This Something That You Value?
Topic: +DEV+ Revival
Revival
"If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear and forgive their sin and will heal their land." (2 CHRONICLES 7:14)
Scripture Focus: Genesis 17:1-5
Before reading the Scriptures, a well known evangelist reminds us that we are about to hear the very words of God: "This is the Word of the Lord. Thanks be to God!" He is aware of the trap we can fall into of becoming dulled to the Bible and indifferent to its message. The Word of the Lord both commands and merits great reverence.
Nehemiah narrates a powerful scene of repentance and revival, and the stage is set with the reading of God's Law. As Ezra the Priest opens the Holy Book, the people stand to their feet, showing respect for the Word. They lift their hands in agreement, exclaiming: "Amen!" and then fall on their faces before the Lord, worshipping Him in humility. The people's hearts are so moved by what they hear that they begin to weep for their sin and guilt before God. But their mourning soon turns to jubilant celebration of God's grace and mercy toward them, for the joy of the LORD is their strength!
May God's Word fall upon our hearts also and cause revival.
Insight: It Is Important That We Engage In Corporate Worship And Sit Under The Teaching Of God's Word Often. Is This Something That You Value?
Monday, October 3, 2011
+DEV+ Behind The Name
Date: October 3, 2011 11:03 PM
Topic: +DEV+ Behind The Name
Behind The Name
"I will bow down toward your holy temple and will praise your name for your love and your faithfulness, for you have exalted above all things your Name and your word." (PSALM 138:2)
Scripture Focus: Genesis 17:1-5
Bible names carried much weight and often reflected the character or information about the person or place being named. Abram was given a new name by God - Abraham, "Father of many" (see Genesis 17:5). A name could hardly be more fitting! In 1 Samuel 7:12, Samuel set up a stone memorial to God's help and called it Ebenezer, meaning "stone of help." While not a popular name today, we find it in one of our great hymns, "Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing" where verse two says, Here I raise my Ebenezer/ Hither by Thy help I'm come (Robert Robinson, 1757).
The names God gives Himself in His Word echo His character. Through them, He personally reveals aspects of Himself, giving us a storehouse of His promises and character attributes. He is El-Shaddai, the "God Almighty" (Genesis 17:1). He is Jehovah-Jireh, "the Lord will provide" (Genesis 22:14). He is Jehovah-Tsidkenu, "the Lord our Righteousness" (Jeremiah 23:6). He is the Almighty God who provides righteousness for sinners through Jesus.
Insight: Intertwined Through All Of Scripture, From Genesis To Revelation, Is A Crimson Thread Of Redemption Always Pointing To Christ.
Topic: +DEV+ Behind The Name
Behind The Name
"I will bow down toward your holy temple and will praise your name for your love and your faithfulness, for you have exalted above all things your Name and your word." (PSALM 138:2)
Scripture Focus: Genesis 17:1-5
Bible names carried much weight and often reflected the character or information about the person or place being named. Abram was given a new name by God - Abraham, "Father of many" (see Genesis 17:5). A name could hardly be more fitting! In 1 Samuel 7:12, Samuel set up a stone memorial to God's help and called it Ebenezer, meaning "stone of help." While not a popular name today, we find it in one of our great hymns, "Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing" where verse two says, Here I raise my Ebenezer/ Hither by Thy help I'm come (Robert Robinson, 1757).
The names God gives Himself in His Word echo His character. Through them, He personally reveals aspects of Himself, giving us a storehouse of His promises and character attributes. He is El-Shaddai, the "God Almighty" (Genesis 17:1). He is Jehovah-Jireh, "the Lord will provide" (Genesis 22:14). He is Jehovah-Tsidkenu, "the Lord our Righteousness" (Jeremiah 23:6). He is the Almighty God who provides righteousness for sinners through Jesus.
Insight: Intertwined Through All Of Scripture, From Genesis To Revelation, Is A Crimson Thread Of Redemption Always Pointing To Christ.
+DEV+ Prophecy Fulfilled
Date: October 3, 2011 12:11 AM
Topic: +DEV+ Prophecy Fulfilled
Prophecy Fulfilled
"In the past God spoke to our forefathers through the prophets at many times and in various ways, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son." (HEBREWS 1:1)
Scripture Focus: John 5:31-47
Isaiah, Daniel, Jeremiah, Ezekiel. In Old Testament times, God chose men such as these to be His mouthpiece to deliver His message to the people. He spoke to them through dreams, visions, and even personally. Therefore, these "holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit" (2 Peter 1:21). No matter the time or place, the heart of the message was the same: repent, turn to the Lord, and be redeemed.
The prophets warned the people of the severe punishment that awaited them if they continued in sin. But they also foretold the coming of a Messiah who would ransom God's people and purchase back His wayward bride. In Jesus' encounter with the Pharisees (John 5), He made it clear that He is the promised Messiah of which Scriptures testify. Although the Pharisees knew what the Bible said, they were blind to The Word made flesh standing right in front them. God desires for us to know more than words on a page. He has personally spoken to us through His Son, Jesus.
Insight: Woven Through All Of Scripture, From Genesis To Revelation, Is A Crimson Thread Of Redemption Always Pointing To Christ.
Topic: +DEV+ Prophecy Fulfilled
Prophecy Fulfilled
"In the past God spoke to our forefathers through the prophets at many times and in various ways, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son." (HEBREWS 1:1)
Scripture Focus: John 5:31-47
Isaiah, Daniel, Jeremiah, Ezekiel. In Old Testament times, God chose men such as these to be His mouthpiece to deliver His message to the people. He spoke to them through dreams, visions, and even personally. Therefore, these "holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit" (2 Peter 1:21). No matter the time or place, the heart of the message was the same: repent, turn to the Lord, and be redeemed.
The prophets warned the people of the severe punishment that awaited them if they continued in sin. But they also foretold the coming of a Messiah who would ransom God's people and purchase back His wayward bride. In Jesus' encounter with the Pharisees (John 5), He made it clear that He is the promised Messiah of which Scriptures testify. Although the Pharisees knew what the Bible said, they were blind to The Word made flesh standing right in front them. God desires for us to know more than words on a page. He has personally spoken to us through His Son, Jesus.
Insight: Woven Through All Of Scripture, From Genesis To Revelation, Is A Crimson Thread Of Redemption Always Pointing To Christ.
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