Date: June 28, 2012 11:58 PM
Topic: +DEV+ A Good Laugh
A Good Laugh
"A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones." (Proverbs 17:22)
Scripture Focus: Psalm 30
Humorous words can be life-giving. Yet many Christians think laughter has no place in the daily worship of God. Some have reminded me that the Bible records "Jesus wept," not "Jesus laughed." Indeed, He mourned greatly over sin, death, and the myth of people believing in their own self-sufficiency. But He also Himself at times used words that were witty. God fashioned all of language for our use and enjoyment, and to shed His grace on our world.
Sometimes it has been the laughter of a word aptly spoken that diffuses anger in an argument, brings a bit of cheer at a funeral service, or helps a friend in the cancer ward face the next treatment.
"Humor doesn't deny tears; rather it affirms something far deeper than tears" (Elton Trueblood, The Humor of Christ, 1964). The Christian can enjoy laughter, not because he doesn't understand sin and suffering, but because he knows these are not the ultimate. The purpose of the Gospel, even in its humor, is Christ's forever purpose for us: redemption.
Insight: Let The Words Of Our Mouth - Words Of Humor As Well As Solemnity - Bring Him Praise!
Friday, June 29, 2012
Wednesday, June 27, 2012
+DEV+ Words and Laughter
Date: June 27, 2012 10:20 PM
Topic: +DEV+ Words and Laughter
Words and Laughter
"Sarah said, 'God has brought me laughter, and everyone who hears about this will laugh with me.'" (Genesis 22:6)
Scripture Focus: Proverbs 15:13-23
Humor plays a part in the language of the Word of God. The irony in the naming of Isaac is one example. Even Sarah herself admitted that the laugh was on her as she bore a child at close to 100 years of age just as God said she would.
My family had laughed along with me at various points when we’ve read them the stories of the tower of Babel, Jonah, Goliath, etc. There are verses in Proverbs (such as 21:9) that are certain to make you smile. Who can't see the humor in phrases like "the blind leading the blind" or "straining out a gnat and swallowing a camel"? Do you remember the funny side of Rhoda slamming the door on Peter's face (Acts 12:12-16) or of the young man sitting in a window listening to Paul's preaching when he began to doze off? And of course, many are the ironic words of Jesus in His parables or in His quick remarks to the religious leaders of His day.
Laughter in everyday situations is a gift from God. We can laugh with Sarah, with Jesus, and with each other, too.
Insight: What Grace Is Ours In Christ, Even In The Humorous!
Topic: +DEV+ Words and Laughter
Words and Laughter
"Sarah said, 'God has brought me laughter, and everyone who hears about this will laugh with me.'" (Genesis 22:6)
Scripture Focus: Proverbs 15:13-23
Humor plays a part in the language of the Word of God. The irony in the naming of Isaac is one example. Even Sarah herself admitted that the laugh was on her as she bore a child at close to 100 years of age just as God said she would.
My family had laughed along with me at various points when we’ve read them the stories of the tower of Babel, Jonah, Goliath, etc. There are verses in Proverbs (such as 21:9) that are certain to make you smile. Who can't see the humor in phrases like "the blind leading the blind" or "straining out a gnat and swallowing a camel"? Do you remember the funny side of Rhoda slamming the door on Peter's face (Acts 12:12-16) or of the young man sitting in a window listening to Paul's preaching when he began to doze off? And of course, many are the ironic words of Jesus in His parables or in His quick remarks to the religious leaders of His day.
Laughter in everyday situations is a gift from God. We can laugh with Sarah, with Jesus, and with each other, too.
Insight: What Grace Is Ours In Christ, Even In The Humorous!
+DEV+ Speechless
Date: June 26, 2012 8:27 PM
Topic: +DEV+ Speechless
Speechless
"We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express." (Romans 8:26)
Scripture Focus: Romans 8:22-28
Paul reminds us that all of creation is sighing and groaning under the weight of sin. That sighing is the prayer of every Christian, and thankfully, the Holy Spirit makes intercession even through our groaning.
Nearly everyone has experienced some agony in life that words cannot express. Do you feel the sting of sin, the hurt of a broken relationship? Do you know the pain of an empty chair at your table or the defeat of loneliness? A guilty conscience, unfaithfulness, bankruptcy, depression, exhaustion, illness may cause you to "groan" as you face the day.
The words of this passage meant much to me when my husband and I waited for years to adopt a baby. Each time a young woman chose us but later changed her mind, the grief became too great for words. The Holy Spirit heard and knew our yearning, a groaning which had buried in it the simple words of Jesus: "Not my will, Thy will be done." Even when your prayers seem to go unanswered and you feel speechless, let that be your prayer, too.
Insight: "We Ourselves, Who Have The Firstfruits Of The Holy Spirit, Groan Inwardly As We Wait Eagerly For Our Adoption As Sons." (Romans 8:23)
Topic: +DEV+ Speechless
Speechless
"We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express." (Romans 8:26)
Scripture Focus: Romans 8:22-28
Paul reminds us that all of creation is sighing and groaning under the weight of sin. That sighing is the prayer of every Christian, and thankfully, the Holy Spirit makes intercession even through our groaning.
Nearly everyone has experienced some agony in life that words cannot express. Do you feel the sting of sin, the hurt of a broken relationship? Do you know the pain of an empty chair at your table or the defeat of loneliness? A guilty conscience, unfaithfulness, bankruptcy, depression, exhaustion, illness may cause you to "groan" as you face the day.
The words of this passage meant much to me when my husband and I waited for years to adopt a baby. Each time a young woman chose us but later changed her mind, the grief became too great for words. The Holy Spirit heard and knew our yearning, a groaning which had buried in it the simple words of Jesus: "Not my will, Thy will be done." Even when your prayers seem to go unanswered and you feel speechless, let that be your prayer, too.
Insight: "We Ourselves, Who Have The Firstfruits Of The Holy Spirit, Groan Inwardly As We Wait Eagerly For Our Adoption As Sons." (Romans 8:23)
Sunday, June 24, 2012
+DEV+ Let No Unwholesome Talk
Date: June 24, 2012 11:21 PM
Topic: +DEV+ Let No Unwholesome Talk
Let No Unwholesome Talk
"Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you." (Ephesians 4:32)
Scripture Focus: Ephesians 4:29-32
Chapter 4 of Paul's letter to his faithful friends in Ephesus is loaded with eloquent words dense in meaning. He speaks to them and to us about unity, living as children of light, putting off the old self, and guarding the words that come out of our mouths. How I long to exchange once and for all the bitterness, anger, slander, and malice (vs.31) that come from my mouth for kindness, compassion, and words of forgiveness. These are what always ought to mark me out as a child of the King. I want to trade unwholesome talk for what is helpful in building others up.
Then why do I falter again and again? Perhaps you are wrestling with that question, too. I know that when my words betray the sin in my heart, I grieve over them later. But when my words breathe even in some small way the freshness and brightness of Jesus Christ, both I and the hearer are heartened. If words from a desperately sinful person can restore, how much more so from the Living Word of Jesus, breathed into each one of us!
Insight: "The Word Is Near You; It Is In Your Mouth And In Your Heart." (Romans 10:8)
Topic: +DEV+ Let No Unwholesome Talk
Let No Unwholesome Talk
"Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you." (Ephesians 4:32)
Scripture Focus: Ephesians 4:29-32
Chapter 4 of Paul's letter to his faithful friends in Ephesus is loaded with eloquent words dense in meaning. He speaks to them and to us about unity, living as children of light, putting off the old self, and guarding the words that come out of our mouths. How I long to exchange once and for all the bitterness, anger, slander, and malice (vs.31) that come from my mouth for kindness, compassion, and words of forgiveness. These are what always ought to mark me out as a child of the King. I want to trade unwholesome talk for what is helpful in building others up.
Then why do I falter again and again? Perhaps you are wrestling with that question, too. I know that when my words betray the sin in my heart, I grieve over them later. But when my words breathe even in some small way the freshness and brightness of Jesus Christ, both I and the hearer are heartened. If words from a desperately sinful person can restore, how much more so from the Living Word of Jesus, breathed into each one of us!
Insight: "The Word Is Near You; It Is In Your Mouth And In Your Heart." (Romans 10:8)
Thursday, June 21, 2012
+DEV+ Best-Selling Book
Date: June 21, 2012 11:43 PM
Topic: +DEV+ Best-Selling Book
Best-Selling Book
"Unlike so many, we do not peddle the word of God for profit. On the contrary, in Christ we speak before God with sincerity, like men sent from God." (2 Corinthians 2:17)
Scripture Focus: 2 Corinthians 2:12-17
With over 400 translations available and written in more than 2,000 languages, the Christian Bible remains the "best-selling book of all time." Best-selling authors make money with each copy they sell. The Bible is the only book to turn that upside down: God doesn't grow "richer" as more Bibles are sold, but its readers sure do!
Perhaps with the plethora of award-winning books, book promotions, book signings, books turned into movies, etc. that exists today, we have grown jaded about the value of the very Word of God which we hold in our hands. Some in this world even now face imprisonment or death for owning a Bible, while you and I can count numerous copies of it on the shelves of our homes.
The power of the Word of God and the Living Word, Jesus Christ, are worth more than any earthly award. No publicist or agent is needed for the Bible; His Word goes out to the nations. And as for being signed by the author, we have the signature of Christ's life, written in blood, saving your soul and mine.
Insight: "Of The Making Of Books, There Is No End" (Ecclesiastes 12:12). But No Book Will Ever Compare To The Bible, Inspired By God Himself.
Topic: +DEV+ Best-Selling Book
Best-Selling Book
"Unlike so many, we do not peddle the word of God for profit. On the contrary, in Christ we speak before God with sincerity, like men sent from God." (2 Corinthians 2:17)
Scripture Focus: 2 Corinthians 2:12-17
With over 400 translations available and written in more than 2,000 languages, the Christian Bible remains the "best-selling book of all time." Best-selling authors make money with each copy they sell. The Bible is the only book to turn that upside down: God doesn't grow "richer" as more Bibles are sold, but its readers sure do!
Perhaps with the plethora of award-winning books, book promotions, book signings, books turned into movies, etc. that exists today, we have grown jaded about the value of the very Word of God which we hold in our hands. Some in this world even now face imprisonment or death for owning a Bible, while you and I can count numerous copies of it on the shelves of our homes.
The power of the Word of God and the Living Word, Jesus Christ, are worth more than any earthly award. No publicist or agent is needed for the Bible; His Word goes out to the nations. And as for being signed by the author, we have the signature of Christ's life, written in blood, saving your soul and mine.
Insight: "Of The Making Of Books, There Is No End" (Ecclesiastes 12:12). But No Book Will Ever Compare To The Bible, Inspired By God Himself.
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
+DEV+ Every Day is a Journal Page
Date: June 20, 2012 11:15 PM
Topic: +DEV+ Every Day is a Journal Page
Every Day is a Journal Page
"Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who, for the joy set before him endured the cross..." (Hebrews 12: 2)
Scripture Focus: Psalm 139
Society teaches us constantly that we are the masters of our destiny, that we are what we make of ourselves, that we write the script. Knowing Jesus Christ as our Savior, however, shows us otherwise. Christianity is not about me and what I make of myself; it's about Christ and what He has done for me.
He is the author and finisher of my faith; He has known each word before it is even on my tongue; all my days were ordained in His book before a single one of them came to be. With the prophet Jeremiah we learn to say, "I know, O LORD, that a man's life is not his own; it is not for man to direct his steps" (Jeremiah 10:23).
Those lessons come to us over time when our best-laid plans fail and we are forced down other paths. Instead of feeling that we write the story of our lives, we see that every day is a journal page - a record of all the Lord has done for us. He is the author of our lives! With our eyes fixed on Him (not ourselves), He carries us through and writes us into the wondrous plan of His kingdom.
Insight: You Can't Write Your Own Destiny; God Has Numbered Every One Of Your Days Even Before You Lived A Single One Of Them.
Topic: +DEV+ Every Day is a Journal Page
Every Day is a Journal Page
"Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who, for the joy set before him endured the cross..." (Hebrews 12: 2)
Scripture Focus: Psalm 139
Society teaches us constantly that we are the masters of our destiny, that we are what we make of ourselves, that we write the script. Knowing Jesus Christ as our Savior, however, shows us otherwise. Christianity is not about me and what I make of myself; it's about Christ and what He has done for me.
He is the author and finisher of my faith; He has known each word before it is even on my tongue; all my days were ordained in His book before a single one of them came to be. With the prophet Jeremiah we learn to say, "I know, O LORD, that a man's life is not his own; it is not for man to direct his steps" (Jeremiah 10:23).
Those lessons come to us over time when our best-laid plans fail and we are forced down other paths. Instead of feeling that we write the story of our lives, we see that every day is a journal page - a record of all the Lord has done for us. He is the author of our lives! With our eyes fixed on Him (not ourselves), He carries us through and writes us into the wondrous plan of His kingdom.
Insight: You Can't Write Your Own Destiny; God Has Numbered Every One Of Your Days Even Before You Lived A Single One Of Them.
Tuesday, June 19, 2012
+DEV+ Louder than Words
Date: June 19, 2012 11:55 PM
Topic: +DEV+ Louder than Words
Louder than Words
"A man of knowledge uses words with restraint, and a man of understanding is even-tempered." (Proverbs 17:27)
Scripture Focus: 1 Peter 3:10-15
When I talk with believing friends about sharing the good news of Jesus Christ, I find that a great fear is of saying the wrong words. We worry we won't have answers or that we'll be tongue-tied. Peter's charge for us to "always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have" (1 Peter 3:15) seems daunting.
But think of the comfort we have at two levels. First, it is Peter, of all people, urging us to be prepared to speak out about Jesus. Peter would certainly remember being caught off guard when asked if he was one of Jesus' followers (John 18:15-18). If the Lord restored Peter in his denial of Him, surely He will restore me in my reluctance (a form of denial, really) to speak out for Christ.
Secondly, Peter tells us to set apart Christ as Lord in our hearts (vs. 15). What will come out as my words must start in my heart. God put His Word into action through a person, Jesus, and that action has spoken much more loudly than words!
Insight: St. Francis Of Assisi Said, "At All Times Preach The Gospel; If Necessary, Use Words."
Topic: +DEV+ Louder than Words
Louder than Words
"A man of knowledge uses words with restraint, and a man of understanding is even-tempered." (Proverbs 17:27)
Scripture Focus: 1 Peter 3:10-15
When I talk with believing friends about sharing the good news of Jesus Christ, I find that a great fear is of saying the wrong words. We worry we won't have answers or that we'll be tongue-tied. Peter's charge for us to "always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have" (1 Peter 3:15) seems daunting.
But think of the comfort we have at two levels. First, it is Peter, of all people, urging us to be prepared to speak out about Jesus. Peter would certainly remember being caught off guard when asked if he was one of Jesus' followers (John 18:15-18). If the Lord restored Peter in his denial of Him, surely He will restore me in my reluctance (a form of denial, really) to speak out for Christ.
Secondly, Peter tells us to set apart Christ as Lord in our hearts (vs. 15). What will come out as my words must start in my heart. God put His Word into action through a person, Jesus, and that action has spoken much more loudly than words!
Insight: St. Francis Of Assisi Said, "At All Times Preach The Gospel; If Necessary, Use Words."
Monday, June 18, 2012
+DEV+ You Are a Letter
Date: June 18, 2012 11:23 PM
Topic: +DEV+ You Are a Letter
You Are a Letter
"You yourselves are our letter, written on our hearts, known and read by everybody, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God." (2 Corinthians 3:2-3A)
Scripture Focus: 2 Corinthians 3:1-6
When you write a letter of recommendation for someone, you try to promote the person's strengths. A good letter of recommendation may get him the foothold in business or elsewhere that he's hoping for.
Paul's words to the believers in Corinth were remarkable since they had not exactly been loyal (1 Corinthians 1:10-17) or commendable (1 Corinthians 3) in their behavior. Despite the Corinthians' failures, Paul is certain of the work of the Holy Spirit in their lives, saying that their best letter of recommendation is themselves. It's a letter "known and read by everybody" (v. 2), without Paul pushing them into the limelight at all. Everything they do as followers of Jesus Christ, testifies of His grace in their lives.
Do you see how we are the visible commendation of Jesus, too? We are a walking letter of testimony to Him! Without even using words, and often despite our sin, we give praise to Him. Such confidence in this is ours because Jesus Christ has washed us with His blood and presented us as His own.
Insight: I Want To Be Not A Letter That Promotes Me And My Accomplishments, But A Letter For Christ That Calls Out "Hallelujah" To Him.
Topic: +DEV+ You Are a Letter
You Are a Letter
"You yourselves are our letter, written on our hearts, known and read by everybody, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God." (2 Corinthians 3:2-3A)
Scripture Focus: 2 Corinthians 3:1-6
When you write a letter of recommendation for someone, you try to promote the person's strengths. A good letter of recommendation may get him the foothold in business or elsewhere that he's hoping for.
Paul's words to the believers in Corinth were remarkable since they had not exactly been loyal (1 Corinthians 1:10-17) or commendable (1 Corinthians 3) in their behavior. Despite the Corinthians' failures, Paul is certain of the work of the Holy Spirit in their lives, saying that their best letter of recommendation is themselves. It's a letter "known and read by everybody" (v. 2), without Paul pushing them into the limelight at all. Everything they do as followers of Jesus Christ, testifies of His grace in their lives.
Do you see how we are the visible commendation of Jesus, too? We are a walking letter of testimony to Him! Without even using words, and often despite our sin, we give praise to Him. Such confidence in this is ours because Jesus Christ has washed us with His blood and presented us as His own.
Insight: I Want To Be Not A Letter That Promotes Me And My Accomplishments, But A Letter For Christ That Calls Out "Hallelujah" To Him.
Sunday, June 17, 2012
+DEV+ Words of Redemption
Date: June 17, 2012 11:02 PM
Topic: +DEV+ Words of Redemption
Words of Redemption
“Love your neighbor as yourself. If you keep on biting and devouring each other, watch out or you will be destroyed by each other." (Galatians 5:14-15)
Scripture Focus: James 4:1-11
It doesn't take the human heart long to figure out the impact our words can have. Learning from our mistakes, however, can take a lifetime. The potential to destroy with our words is just as real as the potential to build up. Yet how often we choose to use our words carelessly.
Paul Tripp, biblical counselor and author of "War of Words," encourages speaking redemptively, or "refusing to let our talk be driven by passion and personal desire, communicating instead with God's purposes in view. It is exercising the faith needed to be part of what God is doing at the moment."
Biting and devouring each other with words destroys; quarreling and surrendering to the desires that battle within kills. "Submit yourselves, then to God. Resist the devil. And he will flee from you. Come near to God and he will come near to you" (James 4:7-8). God has come near through Jesus Christ whose gentle words beckon us to bow our hearts to Him and speak graciously to others because His grace has been lavished on us.
Insight: “May The Words, O Lord, That I Choose To Say/Bring Glory, Not Shame, To Your Name Each Day!” ~Author Unknown~
Topic: +DEV+ Words of Redemption
Words of Redemption
“Love your neighbor as yourself. If you keep on biting and devouring each other, watch out or you will be destroyed by each other." (Galatians 5:14-15)
Scripture Focus: James 4:1-11
It doesn't take the human heart long to figure out the impact our words can have. Learning from our mistakes, however, can take a lifetime. The potential to destroy with our words is just as real as the potential to build up. Yet how often we choose to use our words carelessly.
Paul Tripp, biblical counselor and author of "War of Words," encourages speaking redemptively, or "refusing to let our talk be driven by passion and personal desire, communicating instead with God's purposes in view. It is exercising the faith needed to be part of what God is doing at the moment."
Biting and devouring each other with words destroys; quarreling and surrendering to the desires that battle within kills. "Submit yourselves, then to God. Resist the devil. And he will flee from you. Come near to God and he will come near to you" (James 4:7-8). God has come near through Jesus Christ whose gentle words beckon us to bow our hearts to Him and speak graciously to others because His grace has been lavished on us.
Insight: “May The Words, O Lord, That I Choose To Say/Bring Glory, Not Shame, To Your Name Each Day!” ~Author Unknown~
Thursday, June 14, 2012
+DEV+ Incisions of the Word
Date: June 14, 2012 9:36 PM
Topic: +DEV+ Incisions of the Word
Incisions of the Word
"For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow" (Hebrews 4:12A)
Scripture Focus: Luke 2:33-35; Hebrews 4:12-13
When the Bible truly begins to be more to us than interesting stories and genealogies, it does what dear Simeon in the temple in Jerusalem announced as he took eight-day-old Jesus - Word become flesh - into his arms: it causes "the rising and falling of many" (Luke 2:34), reveals the thoughts of hearts (vs. 35), and is like a sword piercing the soul (vs. 35).
The Word of God goes in deep - like a surgical knife cutting through layers - and makes judgments about what is there. Jesus did exactly that during His earthly ministry and continues to do so now as the written Word penetrates our lives, getting to the very bottom of things. And at the core is always sin, some sort of prideful sin that has us believing we don't need the promises of God, don't need saving, and are the masters of our own destiny. But the Living Word, Jesus, has used those incisions of the Word to drive us to our knees and draw us to Him. Those wounds are nothing compared to the ones He bore at Calvary in order to heal us and restore us to Him.
Insight: "Reckless Words Pierce Like A Sword, But The Tongue Of The Wise Brings Healing." (Proverbs 12:18)
Topic: +DEV+ Incisions of the Word
Incisions of the Word
"For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow" (Hebrews 4:12A)
Scripture Focus: Luke 2:33-35; Hebrews 4:12-13
When the Bible truly begins to be more to us than interesting stories and genealogies, it does what dear Simeon in the temple in Jerusalem announced as he took eight-day-old Jesus - Word become flesh - into his arms: it causes "the rising and falling of many" (Luke 2:34), reveals the thoughts of hearts (vs. 35), and is like a sword piercing the soul (vs. 35).
The Word of God goes in deep - like a surgical knife cutting through layers - and makes judgments about what is there. Jesus did exactly that during His earthly ministry and continues to do so now as the written Word penetrates our lives, getting to the very bottom of things. And at the core is always sin, some sort of prideful sin that has us believing we don't need the promises of God, don't need saving, and are the masters of our own destiny. But the Living Word, Jesus, has used those incisions of the Word to drive us to our knees and draw us to Him. Those wounds are nothing compared to the ones He bore at Calvary in order to heal us and restore us to Him.
Insight: "Reckless Words Pierce Like A Sword, But The Tongue Of The Wise Brings Healing." (Proverbs 12:18)
+DEV+ A Picture, Worth a Thousand Words
Date: June 13, 2012 11:58 PM
Topic: +DEV+ A Picture, Worth a Thousand Words
A Picture, Worth a Thousand Words
"And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself." (Luke 24:29)
Scripture Focus: Luke 24:13-32
A picture can often get a message across better than a well-written sentence, paragraph or essay. The old wedding photos of my grandparents reveal much, conveying the story though the bride and groom are no longer here to tell it. The picture surely is worth a thousand words!
If that idiom is true, we can hardly begin to calculate the value of all the "pictures" of Jesus in the Old Testament. That's why Jesus' two followers who walked along the road toward Emmaus said that their "hearts were burning within" as Jesus spoke (vs. 32). Jesus took the seven mile walk to explain to them how all of the Scriptures were painting one picture: of Jesus Himself as God's great redemption plan for the world. The Old Testament foreshadows or pictures Jesus in many ways - through creation, various people, rocks, water, boats, trees, sacrifices, the temple, etc. Every story whispers His name; some even shout it! Those pictures are worth far more than a thousand words to you and me as believers; they are our words of life.
Insight: "The Unfolding Of Your Word Gives Light; It Gives Understanding To The Simple." (Psalm 119:130)
Topic: +DEV+ A Picture, Worth a Thousand Words
A Picture, Worth a Thousand Words
"And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself." (Luke 24:29)
Scripture Focus: Luke 24:13-32
A picture can often get a message across better than a well-written sentence, paragraph or essay. The old wedding photos of my grandparents reveal much, conveying the story though the bride and groom are no longer here to tell it. The picture surely is worth a thousand words!
If that idiom is true, we can hardly begin to calculate the value of all the "pictures" of Jesus in the Old Testament. That's why Jesus' two followers who walked along the road toward Emmaus said that their "hearts were burning within" as Jesus spoke (vs. 32). Jesus took the seven mile walk to explain to them how all of the Scriptures were painting one picture: of Jesus Himself as God's great redemption plan for the world. The Old Testament foreshadows or pictures Jesus in many ways - through creation, various people, rocks, water, boats, trees, sacrifices, the temple, etc. Every story whispers His name; some even shout it! Those pictures are worth far more than a thousand words to you and me as believers; they are our words of life.
Insight: "The Unfolding Of Your Word Gives Light; It Gives Understanding To The Simple." (Psalm 119:130)
Wednesday, June 13, 2012
+DEV+ Words Fall Short
Date: June 13, 2012 12:04 AM
Topic: +DEV+ Words Fall Short
Words Fall Short
"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 1:1-2A)
Scripture Focus: Hebrews 1:1-12
I have loved words and writing since I could read. But as the years march on, more and more situations arise when words somehow fall short. There are times of overwhelming joy (like when our children were born) and others of profound sorrow (standing at the gravesite of a loved one); both feel so weighty that words cannot express the depth of emotion.
While the inspired Word of God has given us all that can be written about Him, we still find it difficult to convey in words some aspects of the essence of our divine Creator. That is why God's way of revealing Himself to us - beyond the prophets or visions or miracles - was through a person. The very Word of God has come to us in a person, Jesus Christ. Through Jesus' birth, life and death for us, we can know the "radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of his being" (vs. 3).
Though we may struggle to express ourselves at times, God's greatest expression of love to us is spoken boldly and plainly through His Son.
Insight: When Words Fall Short, Rejoice In The Knowledge That "The Word Became Flesh And Made His Dwelling Among Us" (John 1:14).
Topic: +DEV+ Words Fall Short
Words Fall Short
"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 1:1-2A)
Scripture Focus: Hebrews 1:1-12
I have loved words and writing since I could read. But as the years march on, more and more situations arise when words somehow fall short. There are times of overwhelming joy (like when our children were born) and others of profound sorrow (standing at the gravesite of a loved one); both feel so weighty that words cannot express the depth of emotion.
While the inspired Word of God has given us all that can be written about Him, we still find it difficult to convey in words some aspects of the essence of our divine Creator. That is why God's way of revealing Himself to us - beyond the prophets or visions or miracles - was through a person. The very Word of God has come to us in a person, Jesus Christ. Through Jesus' birth, life and death for us, we can know the "radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of his being" (vs. 3).
Though we may struggle to express ourselves at times, God's greatest expression of love to us is spoken boldly and plainly through His Son.
Insight: When Words Fall Short, Rejoice In The Knowledge That "The Word Became Flesh And Made His Dwelling Among Us" (John 1:14).
Tuesday, June 12, 2012
+DEV+ Power of Words
Date: February 3, 2011 1:04 PM
Topic: +DEV+ Power of Words
Power of Words
"Peter answered him, 'Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.'" (John 6:68)
Scripture Focus: John 6:60-69
Words are powerful. You've known that since the first time you read a book you couldn't put down. Think of the influence of words you've heard from an impassioned speaker. Remember how powerful words were when someone said, "I'm proud of you," or, sadly, when someone spoke ill of you? Surely you've had the words of a song remain in your mind for years.
But all of these will pass away. The words that will last forever are those of eternal life written for us in the Bible. They are the words of patriarchs and prophets, kings and clergy, apostles and disciples, and Jesus Himself - all inspired and breathed by God. You may go back to a book of the Bible repeatedly, finding its words ever fresh and real. But if you re-read favorite books from years ago, you'll see you've forgotten much of them. While the discourses of our day fade, we stand firmly as Peter did, testifying that there is no reason for us to look elsewhere for words of hope; we have them spoken by and embodied in Jesus Christ.
Insight: “Heaven And Earth Will Pass Away, But My Words Will Never Pass Away." (Matthew 24:35)
Topic: +DEV+ Power of Words
Power of Words
"Peter answered him, 'Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.'" (John 6:68)
Scripture Focus: John 6:60-69
Words are powerful. You've known that since the first time you read a book you couldn't put down. Think of the influence of words you've heard from an impassioned speaker. Remember how powerful words were when someone said, "I'm proud of you," or, sadly, when someone spoke ill of you? Surely you've had the words of a song remain in your mind for years.
But all of these will pass away. The words that will last forever are those of eternal life written for us in the Bible. They are the words of patriarchs and prophets, kings and clergy, apostles and disciples, and Jesus Himself - all inspired and breathed by God. You may go back to a book of the Bible repeatedly, finding its words ever fresh and real. But if you re-read favorite books from years ago, you'll see you've forgotten much of them. While the discourses of our day fade, we stand firmly as Peter did, testifying that there is no reason for us to look elsewhere for words of hope; we have them spoken by and embodied in Jesus Christ.
Insight: “Heaven And Earth Will Pass Away, But My Words Will Never Pass Away." (Matthew 24:35)
Sunday, June 10, 2012
+DEV+ First Words
Date: June 10, 2012 9:24 PM
Topic: +DEV+ First Words
First Words
"Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. In him was life, and that life was the light of men." (John 1:3-4)
Scripture Focus: Matthew 8:23-27
Have you known the joy of hearing a little child's first word? When that sweet voice makes its first utterance, there is much rejoicing, even if the word is unintelligible.
Imagine hearing the sound of the first words at the beginning of time, words which spoke the whole universe into being! With authority we can't begin to fathom, the first words bid the creation of light, sky, water, sun and moon, living creatures, vegetation, and people. Clear and commanding, these first words were recognized throughout time by each created thing. The Bible tells of times when the sun did not give its light; when water flowed or parted or stopped; when plants withered or burst forth; when waves, wind and stars obeyed; when animals opened their mouths to speak; when men, women or children heard that same voice and knew instantly to say to their Creator, "Yes, Lord?"
His voice calls to you, too. Joyfully welcome it because the Word, Jesus Christ, was with God in the beginning, creating everything in its vast array, calling you as one of His own.
Insight: May We Affirm The Words Of The Contemporary Hymn That "Ancient Words; Ever True; (Are) Changing Me; Changing You" (Lynn De Shazo, 2001).
Topic: +DEV+ First Words
First Words
"Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. In him was life, and that life was the light of men." (John 1:3-4)
Scripture Focus: Matthew 8:23-27
Have you known the joy of hearing a little child's first word? When that sweet voice makes its first utterance, there is much rejoicing, even if the word is unintelligible.
Imagine hearing the sound of the first words at the beginning of time, words which spoke the whole universe into being! With authority we can't begin to fathom, the first words bid the creation of light, sky, water, sun and moon, living creatures, vegetation, and people. Clear and commanding, these first words were recognized throughout time by each created thing. The Bible tells of times when the sun did not give its light; when water flowed or parted or stopped; when plants withered or burst forth; when waves, wind and stars obeyed; when animals opened their mouths to speak; when men, women or children heard that same voice and knew instantly to say to their Creator, "Yes, Lord?"
His voice calls to you, too. Joyfully welcome it because the Word, Jesus Christ, was with God in the beginning, creating everything in its vast array, calling you as one of His own.
Insight: May We Affirm The Words Of The Contemporary Hymn That "Ancient Words; Ever True; (Are) Changing Me; Changing You" (Lynn De Shazo, 2001).
Friday, June 8, 2012
+DEV+ Better is One Word
Date: June 8, 2012 12:02 AM
Topic: +DEV+ Better is One Word
Better is One Word
"The Lord announced the word, and great was the company of those who proclaimed it." (Psalm 68:11)
Scripture Focus: Psalm 68:1-11, 19
The third verse of "A Mighty Fortress is our God" speaks of the world's evils and of their threat to undo Christ followers. Martin Luther's hymn sings out that we need not fear the prince of darkness because "one little word shall fell him." Do you wonder what that "little word" is?
There is only one word that causes demons to shutter, one word greater than every earthly influence: Jesus. "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God" (John 1:1). Jesus is the "little word" that we proclaim and magnify!
Countless words have been written and spoken that impress, enlighten, entertain. But none is so sweet or so mighty, so complete or magnificent as the name of Jesus. A contemporary children's song by Keith and Kristyn Getty affirms the heart of the believer, saying "Better is one word from Jesus than a thousand I could say; better is one step with Jesus than a thousand another way." Won't you step beside me this month as we meditate on The Word and our words?
Insight: What Word In This World Could Be Worth Clinging To Other Than The Name Of Jesus? I Want No Other!
Topic: +DEV+ Better is One Word
Better is One Word
"The Lord announced the word, and great was the company of those who proclaimed it." (Psalm 68:11)
Scripture Focus: Psalm 68:1-11, 19
The third verse of "A Mighty Fortress is our God" speaks of the world's evils and of their threat to undo Christ followers. Martin Luther's hymn sings out that we need not fear the prince of darkness because "one little word shall fell him." Do you wonder what that "little word" is?
There is only one word that causes demons to shutter, one word greater than every earthly influence: Jesus. "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God" (John 1:1). Jesus is the "little word" that we proclaim and magnify!
Countless words have been written and spoken that impress, enlighten, entertain. But none is so sweet or so mighty, so complete or magnificent as the name of Jesus. A contemporary children's song by Keith and Kristyn Getty affirms the heart of the believer, saying "Better is one word from Jesus than a thousand I could say; better is one step with Jesus than a thousand another way." Won't you step beside me this month as we meditate on The Word and our words?
Insight: What Word In This World Could Be Worth Clinging To Other Than The Name Of Jesus? I Want No Other!
Thursday, June 7, 2012
+DEV+ Home at Last
Date: June 7, 2012 12:02 AM
Topic: +DEV+ Home at Last
Home at Last
"In my Father's house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you and take you to be with me." (John 14:2-3)
Scripture Focus: John 14:1-14
In biblical times, when a man became betrothed, he would leave his future wife for a year or so to prepare for their new life together. One of his tasks during this time was to build a home for his bride. Their new home was usually an addition built onto his father's family home. As the groom's betrothed waited for him, did she wonder what her new home would be like? Did she imagine her new life there?
In the Bible, marriage is often used as a picture of the relationship between Jesus Christ and His Church. Christians are betrothed to Jesus. Someday, He will return. Until then, He is preparing a place for us in His Father's house.
What kind of home is Jesus building for us? What will it look like? The answers are not important. What matters is that our new home will be perfect because we will be with our Bridegroom.
We have the privilege of building great things for our Bridegroom. Someday, we will have the greater privilege of living in the home He is building for us.
Insight: Are You Using Your Life Here To Build For Jesus Christ Or For Yourself? Build With Your Bridegroom In Mind!
Topic: +DEV+ Home at Last
Home at Last
"In my Father's house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you and take you to be with me." (John 14:2-3)
Scripture Focus: John 14:1-14
In biblical times, when a man became betrothed, he would leave his future wife for a year or so to prepare for their new life together. One of his tasks during this time was to build a home for his bride. Their new home was usually an addition built onto his father's family home. As the groom's betrothed waited for him, did she wonder what her new home would be like? Did she imagine her new life there?
In the Bible, marriage is often used as a picture of the relationship between Jesus Christ and His Church. Christians are betrothed to Jesus. Someday, He will return. Until then, He is preparing a place for us in His Father's house.
What kind of home is Jesus building for us? What will it look like? The answers are not important. What matters is that our new home will be perfect because we will be with our Bridegroom.
We have the privilege of building great things for our Bridegroom. Someday, we will have the greater privilege of living in the home He is building for us.
Insight: Are You Using Your Life Here To Build For Jesus Christ Or For Yourself? Build With Your Bridegroom In Mind!
Tuesday, June 5, 2012
+DEV+ The Owner's Measure
Date: June 5, 2012 11:10 PM
Topic: +DEV+ The Owner's Measure
The Owner's Measure
"The angel had a measuring rod of gold to measure the city, its gates and its walls. The city was laid out like a square, as long as it was wide. He measured the city with the rod" (Revelation 21:15-16)
Scripture Focus: Revelation 21:10-27
Owners are usually familiar with what they own. Homeowners know the size and value of their homes. Business owners are aware of their costs and revenues. Investors know the size of their bank accounts.
One way the Bible reflects ownership is through measurement. An owner has the right to measure what he owns. In this passage, the apostle John described the Holy City of God. The Lord built it, and it reflects His glory. He is the one who owns it, and He is the one who has the authority to verify its limits and measurements.
The angel measured the city and each of its walls. He even counted the gates and foundation stones. John recorded all the data, from the measurements to the types of construction materials used.
Someday, the Holy City will be the residence of all "whose names are written in the Lamb's book of life" (Revelation 21:27). Because of the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, not only does the city belong to the Lord, so will all of its inhabitants. What a glorious day that will be!
Insight: Does The Measure Of Your Service For Jesus Christ Reflect His Ownership? All You Do Belongs To Him Because You Belong To Him!
Topic: +DEV+ The Owner's Measure
The Owner's Measure
"The angel had a measuring rod of gold to measure the city, its gates and its walls. The city was laid out like a square, as long as it was wide. He measured the city with the rod" (Revelation 21:15-16)
Scripture Focus: Revelation 21:10-27
Owners are usually familiar with what they own. Homeowners know the size and value of their homes. Business owners are aware of their costs and revenues. Investors know the size of their bank accounts.
One way the Bible reflects ownership is through measurement. An owner has the right to measure what he owns. In this passage, the apostle John described the Holy City of God. The Lord built it, and it reflects His glory. He is the one who owns it, and He is the one who has the authority to verify its limits and measurements.
The angel measured the city and each of its walls. He even counted the gates and foundation stones. John recorded all the data, from the measurements to the types of construction materials used.
Someday, the Holy City will be the residence of all "whose names are written in the Lamb's book of life" (Revelation 21:27). Because of the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, not only does the city belong to the Lord, so will all of its inhabitants. What a glorious day that will be!
Insight: Does The Measure Of Your Service For Jesus Christ Reflect His Ownership? All You Do Belongs To Him Because You Belong To Him!
Monday, June 4, 2012
+DEV+ Build for Eternity
Date: June 4, 2012 10:39 PM
Topic: +DEV+ Build for Eternity
Build for Eternity
"If any man builds on this foundation using gold, silver, costly stones, wood, hay or straw, his work will be shown for what it is, because the Day will bring it to light." (1 Corinthians 3:12)
Scripture Focus: 1 Corinthians 3:10-15
The adage "Nothing lasts forever" is not quite true. Some things will last forever. Jesus said people will last for eternity (Matthew 25:46), and His Word will never pass away (Luke 21:33).
Something else will last. When we serve Jesus, our work has the opportunity of standing the test of time. Jesus Christ - who He is and what He has done for us - is the foundation for all we are and all we do.
However, we have a choice as to how we build on this foundation. We can choose to advance our own agendas, or we can advance Christ's kingdom. We can labor for the praise of men, or we can seek to please our heavenly Father. We can build great things to make our mark on the world, or we can build great things for the glory of God.
What we do - and the reasons we do it - will be tested. The apostle Paul reminded us that every Christian will stand before Christ and our works will be evaluated (2 Corinthians 5:10). Let's serve Him in a way that will last for all eternity.
Insight: How Are You Serving Jesus Christ In Light Of Eternity? Serve For The Lord's Glory Alone And Your Work Will Have Eternal Results.
Topic: +DEV+ Build for Eternity
Build for Eternity
"If any man builds on this foundation using gold, silver, costly stones, wood, hay or straw, his work will be shown for what it is, because the Day will bring it to light." (1 Corinthians 3:12)
Scripture Focus: 1 Corinthians 3:10-15
The adage "Nothing lasts forever" is not quite true. Some things will last forever. Jesus said people will last for eternity (Matthew 25:46), and His Word will never pass away (Luke 21:33).
Something else will last. When we serve Jesus, our work has the opportunity of standing the test of time. Jesus Christ - who He is and what He has done for us - is the foundation for all we are and all we do.
However, we have a choice as to how we build on this foundation. We can choose to advance our own agendas, or we can advance Christ's kingdom. We can labor for the praise of men, or we can seek to please our heavenly Father. We can build great things to make our mark on the world, or we can build great things for the glory of God.
What we do - and the reasons we do it - will be tested. The apostle Paul reminded us that every Christian will stand before Christ and our works will be evaluated (2 Corinthians 5:10). Let's serve Him in a way that will last for all eternity.
Insight: How Are You Serving Jesus Christ In Light Of Eternity? Serve For The Lord's Glory Alone And Your Work Will Have Eternal Results.
Sunday, June 3, 2012
+DEV+ Built Up in Love
Date: June 3, 2012 10:11 PM
Topic: +DEV+ Built Up in Love
Built Up in Love
“The body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ." (Ephesians 4:12-13)
Scripture Focus: Ephesians 4:11-16
Some think of the Church as a collection of buildings. However, the Church is not made of wood, bricks, steel, or concrete. Buildings merely provide a meeting place for the true Church.
The Church is the body of Christ - with members of the body encouraging each other, learning together, and working together. It is people joined by their love for Jesus Christ and by His love for them.
This love is what fuels our growth. Through Jesus' love for us, He builds us up into a "unity of faith" and in a "knowledge of the Son of God" (Ephesians 4:13). His goal for us is maturity, a level of wholeness and fullness in our relationship with Him.
The love of Christ also fuels our interactions. The apostle Paul reminds us that we are to address each other truthfully, yet lovingly. Truth without love can easily yield to legalism. Love without truth often results in compromise. Only when truth is spoken in love will the body of Christ be all that our heavenly Father intended.
Insight: How Are You Helping To Build Up The Body Of Jesus Christ? Speak The Truth In Love To Build Up Other Believers.
Topic: +DEV+ Built Up in Love
Built Up in Love
“The body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ." (Ephesians 4:12-13)
Scripture Focus: Ephesians 4:11-16
Some think of the Church as a collection of buildings. However, the Church is not made of wood, bricks, steel, or concrete. Buildings merely provide a meeting place for the true Church.
The Church is the body of Christ - with members of the body encouraging each other, learning together, and working together. It is people joined by their love for Jesus Christ and by His love for them.
This love is what fuels our growth. Through Jesus' love for us, He builds us up into a "unity of faith" and in a "knowledge of the Son of God" (Ephesians 4:13). His goal for us is maturity, a level of wholeness and fullness in our relationship with Him.
The love of Christ also fuels our interactions. The apostle Paul reminds us that we are to address each other truthfully, yet lovingly. Truth without love can easily yield to legalism. Love without truth often results in compromise. Only when truth is spoken in love will the body of Christ be all that our heavenly Father intended.
Insight: How Are You Helping To Build Up The Body Of Jesus Christ? Speak The Truth In Love To Build Up Other Believers.
Friday, June 1, 2012
+DEV+ Alike or Different?
Date: June 1, 2012 2:20 AM
Topic: +DEV+ Alike or Different?
Alike or Different?
"His purpose was to create in himself one new man out of the two and in this one body to reconcile both of them to God through the cross, by which he put to death their hostility." (Ephesians 2:15B-16)
Scripture Focus: Ephesians 2:11-22
Are people more alike than different, or are we more different than alike?
We all have more in common than we might think. We are united in our humanity and we all share the same problem of sin. We are also unable to correct our sin problem by our own effort.
The ancient Israelites thought they were superior to the rest of the world because they had the solution for sin. God had given them a system of sacrifices to atone for sin and enable them to be His people. No other nation could claim they belonged to God. Instead of using their relationship with the one, true God to point others to Him, they looked down on all other people.
Until Jesus Christ arrived. Jesus united Jew and Gentile under one solution for sin: His sacrificial death on the cross. From that point forward, we are all "being built together" (Ephesians 2:22).
God still works through believers in Christ - regardless of ethnicity - to build His kingdom for his glory.
Insight: Do You Sometimes Feel Superior To Other Christians? Allow God To Use You, Along With Christians From Many Different Backgrounds, To Build His Kingdom.
Topic: +DEV+ Alike or Different?
Alike or Different?
"His purpose was to create in himself one new man out of the two and in this one body to reconcile both of them to God through the cross, by which he put to death their hostility." (Ephesians 2:15B-16)
Scripture Focus: Ephesians 2:11-22
Are people more alike than different, or are we more different than alike?
We all have more in common than we might think. We are united in our humanity and we all share the same problem of sin. We are also unable to correct our sin problem by our own effort.
The ancient Israelites thought they were superior to the rest of the world because they had the solution for sin. God had given them a system of sacrifices to atone for sin and enable them to be His people. No other nation could claim they belonged to God. Instead of using their relationship with the one, true God to point others to Him, they looked down on all other people.
Until Jesus Christ arrived. Jesus united Jew and Gentile under one solution for sin: His sacrificial death on the cross. From that point forward, we are all "being built together" (Ephesians 2:22).
God still works through believers in Christ - regardless of ethnicity - to build His kingdom for his glory.
Insight: Do You Sometimes Feel Superior To Other Christians? Allow God To Use You, Along With Christians From Many Different Backgrounds, To Build His Kingdom.
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