Monday, March 31, 2014

+DEV+ Peter: The Rock

Date: March 31, 2014 9:47 PM
Topic: +DEV+  Peter: The Rock

Peter: The Rock


"For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his love for those who fear him; as far as the East is from the West, so far has he removed our transgressions from us." (Psalm 103:11-12)

Scripture Focus: Matthew 16:13-23; Luke 22:54-62


Sometimes I wonder if I will ever get living the Christian life right. Looking at the disciple Peter, "The Rock," reassures me.

The New Testament reveals Peter's often impulsive, hardheaded, blundering ways. He walked on water - and sank, spontaneously cut off a soldier's ear, and informed Jesus, "You can't die!" Worst, he denied all association with Jesus three times. Jesus rescued Peter, healed the ear, called him out in his sin, and predicted his denials. But Jesus also commended him for recognizing Christ as the Son of God, revealing that he and his confession of faith would build the church through the ages. Later He commissioned Peter to feed His sheep.

By the opening of the book of Acts, Peter has become a respected leader and fearless speaker for the new church. Jesus, in His great love, would transform Peter through the cross and by the Holy Spirit.

Our journey is not measured only by victories. God, our Rock, knows our shortcomings and loves us - even uses us - anyway.

Insight: "God... knows no season of change. He has a single relentless stance toward us. He loves us." (Brennan Manning)

Please feel free to use this devotional to send on to your friends or share with your church fellowship and Bible study groups.


We are in need of Prayer and financial partners,
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Sunday, March 30, 2014

+DEV+ Foolish People

Date: March 30, 2014 10:42 PM
Topic: +DEV+   Foolish People

Foolish People

"It is to a man's honor to avoid strife, but every fool is quick to quarrel." (Proverbs 20:3)

Scripture Focus: 1 Samuel 25:9-19, 32-41

There are a lot of foolish people in the world. Yet for every fool, there seems to be someone who's stuck cleaning up the messes those foolish actions create.

The Bible tells us that Nabal was one of those irascible fools. In contrast, Abigail, his beautiful and intelligent wife, was the fixer of his foolishness. She had her hands full putting up with his tirades and unsnagging his entanglements. Then, Nabal crossed the wrong person. Except for Abigail's quick thinking and actions, he almost brought destruction on his household. There were still consequences. After he'd spent a night in debauchery, his wife admitted what she'd done to avert David's fatal attack, and Nabal had a stroke and died.

There are troubleshooters and troublemakers; people whose goal is to advance the work of God as diplomats and peacemakers, and those who, by their argumentative words and foolish actions promote discord and dissension. Let's be builders and not demolition experts as we live out our adventures for
Jesus Christ.

Insight: "For God is not a God of disorder but of peace." (1 Corinthians 14:33)

Please feel free to use this devotional to send on to your friends or share with your church fellowship and Bible study groups.

We are in need of Prayer and financial partners,
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Thursday, March 27, 2014

+DEV+ A New Creation

Date: March 27, 2014 11:21 PM
Topic: +DEV+  A New Creation

A New Creation

"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!" (2 Corinthians 5:17)

Scripture Focus: John 4:13-30

Jesus had the Samaritan woman's spiritual thirst on His mind as He inextricably drew her into conversation by asking for a drink. She was clueless, seeing only a hot, tired Jew sitting in the shade of the well. Jesus saw her needy heart.

Walking to the well, she may have felt the anxiety we feel deep inside, knowing our life is off track and we've no idea how to fix it. Not far into their conversation Jesus got to the point, and the woman realized that she had been searching for spiritual fulfillment in all the wrong relationships. Jesus shook her loose, as He shakes all of us loose from the things we think we need to make our lives work. Fully struck by the knowledge of who Jesus was, she couldn't return to her past. She could only go forward into His grace.

Jesus is sitting by the well of your life today, offering you His Living Water, to quench your eternal thirst. Is long records of past sins holding you back from going forward with Him? Know that He lived and died to wash it all away.

Insight: "Create a new heart in me that i may not return to all that used to be." (Adrian Van Kaam, C.C.Sp.)

Please feel free to use this devotional to send on to your friends or share with your church fellowship and Bible study groups.


We are in need of Prayer and financial partners,
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+DEV+ Trained From A Child For Service

Date: March 27, 2014 1:48 AM
Topic: +DEV+  Trained From A Child For Service

Trained From A Child For Service

Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it." (Proverbs 22:6)

Scripture Focus: 2 Timothy 1:2-10; 3:14-17


As I've aged, I realize how blessed I am to have been born into a Christian home. My family taught me God's love from birth, read the Bible daily, and took me to church. Jesus was (and is!) a fact of life, like breathing.

The Apostle Paul had friends the world over, but there was one young man he loved like a son: Timothy. When Paul first preached in Lystra, Timothy's family had already trained him in the Scriptures. Even as a teen, Timothy's spiritual potential was evident to Paul. Soon Timothy accompanied Paul on his missionary journeys, learning Anglicization. Finally, Paul left him in Ephesus to resolve the growing problem of heresy there. Paul wrote Timothy letters from prison, encouraging him to stay true to the faith, fearless, unashamed, fanning the flames of God's already unmistakable grace.

What a gift to have someone like Paul as a mentor on the journey with the Lord! Do you have such a spiritual friend or relative? If not, why not ask God to provide a spiritual teacher for you?

Insight:
"A student is not above his teacher, but everyone who is fully trained will be like his teacher." (Luke 6:40)

Please feel free to use this devotional to send on to your friends or share with your church fellowship and Bible study groups.

We are in need of Prayer and financial partners,
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Wednesday, March 26, 2014

+DEV+ Jonah's Storm

Date: March 26, 2014 1:43 AM
Topic: +DEV+  Jonah's Storm

Jonah’s Storm

"Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: Who...humbled himself and became obedient to death - even death on a cross!" (Philippians 2:5, 6a)

Scripture Focus: Jonah 1; 2:10-3:3; 3:10-4:4

Don't dismiss the book of Jonah as just a kids' story. It is still relevant to any age of 21st century believers.

Jonah was a prophet of God with a joyless attitude. When he received God's instructions to call Nineveh to repentance, he hopped on a boat - headed in the opposite direction. God sent a deadly storm. Jonah was thrown overboard to save the ship and crew. Rescued by a God-sent giant fish, Jonah spent three days in it’s belly - three days of reflection and three days that would point us ahead to Jesus who Himself was three days in the grave before His resurrection. Jonah prayed and vowed sacrifices to God, yet his attitude remained poor.

After the fish spit him out, God gave Jonah another chance. This time he did preach to the Ninevites who then repented. And Jonah was angry. He sulked and did not like God's agenda.

Sometimes we do God's work grudgingly, too. Or we ignore His call altogether. How is your journey going? Does your agenda align with God's map? Is your attitude like Jesus'?

Insight:  "Always be in a state of expectancy, and see that you leave room for God to come in as He likes." (Oswald Chambers)

Please feel free to use this devotional to send on to your friends or share with your church fellowship and Bible study groups.

We are in need of Prayer and financial partners,
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Monday, March 24, 2014

+DEV+ Godly Strength

Date: March 24, 2014 11:15 PM
Topic: +DEV+  Godly Strength

Godly Strength

"This is what the Sovereign Lord, the Holy One of Israel, says: 'In repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength....'"(Isaiah 30:15)

Scripture Focus: Matthew 1:18-25; 2:13-15, 19-23

Remember the adage "The squeaky wheel gets the oil"? That may be true for wheels, but, is "squeakiness" a trait God desires in those on His journey?

Take Joseph, Mary's husband and Jesus' earthly father. Scripture does not record one word that he spoke. Yet, today's readings along with Luke 2, give a strong profile of the kind of man Joseph was. Called righteous, he strictly observed the Jewish law and saw that his new family observed the sacrifices, feasts and rituals as well. He also did what the Roman law required, registering for the census in Bethlehem. He had a solid trade to support his family and pass on to his son. He was a good listener - when the angel of the Lord spoke to him, on four occasions, he listened and obeyed. He was a sensible and dependable man whose actions spoke louder than his words.

Though Joseph does not seem to have been a man of many words, he listened and obeyed. Isn't that what God desires from us? How He longs for us to hear His Word and, in quiet confidence, trust Him!

Insight: "Beware of stopping your ears to the call of God...." (Oswald Chambers)

Please feel free to use this devotional to send on to your friends or share with your church fellowship and Bible study groups.

We are in need of Prayer and financial partners,
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+DEV+ I Choose God's Way

Date: March 24, 2014 2:15 AM
Topic: +DEV+  I Choose God's Way

I Choose God's Way

"I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you and watch over you." (Psalm 32:8)

Scripture Focus: Ruth 1:14-18; 2:2-3; 4:9-11

Have you ever made a life-altering decision, following your intuition rather the rational facts? Ruth's choice of going with Naomi or returning to her own people wasn't only about being a good daughter-in-law. It was also about listening to the yearnings of her heart and following God's voice. It was more than intuition.

Things looked bleak when the two women arrived in Bethlehem. Ruth offered to do what she could, gathering grain left behind by the harvesters. God led her to work the fields of Boaz, a wealthy, righteous man, but, under Jewish law, also a relative responsible to protect these women. It's a redemption story, with a forecast of the future. Eventually, Ruth married Boaz and gave birth to a son who'd carry the family name directly to King David and ultimately to Jesus.

The consequences of Ruth's decision to submit to God extended far beyond her lifetime. Who can tell what long term effect our godly choices today may have, not only on our immediate future, but in God's eternal plan?

Insight: "I am not skilled to understand/ what God has willed, what God has planned/ I only know at his right hand/ is one who is my savior." (Dora Greenwell, 1873)

Please feel free to use this devotional to send on to your friends or share with your church fellowship and Bible study groups.


We are in need of Prayer and financial partners,
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Friday, March 21, 2014

+DEV+ Be Transformed

Date: March 21, 2014 12:23 AM
Topic: +DEV+  Be Transformed

Be Transformed

"Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is...." (Romans 12:2)

Scripture Focus: Judges 6:11-16; 7:15-22

When the Lord appeared to Gideon, proclaiming him a "mighty warrior," the young man reacted with excuses. He lacked confidence, power, and status. The Lord told him to go save His people from the Midianites - didn't He see Gideon hiding in the winepress in fear?

   Yet the Lord promised to be with him, and Gideon made up his mind to believe and obey. It became a step-by-step process of God speaking and Gideon questioningly obeying. By the time Gideon actually led his army against Midian, he was expecting and received a miracle. But when the dust of the battle settled, the most astonishing miracle was the change in Gideon. The Holy Spirit had re-created him into a confident and powerful military leader and commander, a resourceful diplomat (Judges 8:1-2), and a respected, yet humble servant of God (Judges 8:22-23).

   What kind of transformation is God seeking to perform in you, through His Spirit and your obedience? He does His greatest transforming work right in our hearts when we know Jesus as our Savior.

Insight: "Has God altered the thing that matters? the spirit of God makes (it) manifest in your actual life...there is no imagining that you did it."

Please feel free to use this devotional to send on to your friends or share with your church fellowship and Bible study groups.

We are in need of Prayer and financial partners,
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Wednesday, March 19, 2014

+DEV+ Change Directions

Date: March 19, 2014 9:02 PM
Topic: +DEV+  Change Directions

Change Directions

"Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me." (Psalm 51:10)

Scripture Focus: Acts 26:9-23

You've heard of an "aha!" moment, that instant when something stops a person and makes him reassess and possibly change directions.

Saul, following in his father's footsteps, was the quintessential Pharisee, describing himself as "a Hebrew of Hebrews," born into the tribe of Benjamin, circumcised on the eighth day, faultless in following the Law (Philippians 3:4-6). With these credentials, he was passionate about trying to eradicate the new church of Jesus.

But God had other plans for Saul. From birth, God "set Saul apart" (Galatians 1:15) as His "chosen instrument" (Acts 9:15) to bring the message of salvation to the non-Jewish world. God literally stopped Saul in his tracks and turned him around, 180 degrees.

Just as with Saul, God intervenes in our self-directed lives today revealing the love of Jesus, and offering us new life. Then we, like Saul, become a new creation, on a new path, in a new direction, led by Him. The "aha!" moment becomes an "aha!" life which marvels at Jesus' hold on us.

Insight:
  "One individual life may be of priceless value to God's purposes, and yours may be that life." (Oswald Chambers)

Please feel free to use this devotional to send on to your friends or share with your church fellowship and Bible study groups.

We are in need of Prayer and financial partners,
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+DEV+ Life In the Kingdom

Date: March 19, 2014 12:28 AM
Topic: +DEV+ Life In the Kingdom

Life In the Kingdom

"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purblind pose." (Romans 8:28)

Scripture Focus: Esther 6:1-11

On a car trip, the highway I traveled became enveloped in dense fog. I prayed for safety and discernment along the nearly invisible road. Mordecai may have felt he was in a fog too - perhaps he prayed the same prayer, listening to assassins plotting the king's death. Loyal to Persia and its king, he reported the conspiracy, saving the king's life.

From this point on, the Bible story reads like the libretto for a comic opera, complete with an intrepid cast, mistaken identities, death plots, and vile villain. But this is no joke! This is the account of a historical Jewish man, displaced, yet flourishing and faithful to both his heavenly and earthly kings. Eventually, through a series of God-directed circumstances, the villain is revealed, and the Jewish people are saved.

As believers, we, too, trust God to intervene for us. We know His greatest intervention ever: sending Jesus Christ into our sinful world to save us. Our every footstep has been navigated by the Lord (see Proverbs 20:24).

Insight:  "If we had faith...in God...we wouldn't be anxious or worried or fearful....faith as trust generates [as] Paul Tillich said, 'the courage to be.'" (Marcus J. Borg)

Please feel free to use this devotional to send on to your friends or share with your church fellowship and Bible study groups.

We are in need of Prayer and financial partners,
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Tuesday, March 18, 2014

+DEV+ Never Be Afraid

Date: March 18, 2014 2:10 AM
Topic: +DEV+  Never Be Afraid

Never Be Afraid

"Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me...." (Psalm 23:4)

Scripture Focus: Esther 4:9-16


Though the orphaned Jewish girl, Esther, was raised by an important civil servant who sat at the King of Persia's palace gates daily, I doubt she ever dreamed she would live inside those palace walls. Yet through circumstances beyond her control - a royal edict - she became the king's favorite concubine, and subsequently his queen.

When a plot to kill all the Jews was discovered, she risked everything, even her life, to go before the king to request that he save them. Was it chance that placed Esther in the palace and in the favor of the king? Esther knew, though her life was not in her control, it was and always had been in the control of the God of Israel. He had placed her in this high position for just such a time to save her Jewish people. She depended on Him.
He overcame her fears, and she and her people were safe.

We can trust this same God of grace who sent our Savior, Jesus. He may put us in incongruous places, but He will also calm our anxieties and our circumstances for His glory and our good.

Insight:  "Never be afraid to trust an unknown future to an all-knowing God." (Corrie Ten Boom)

Please feel free to use this devotional to send on to your friends or share with your church fellowship and Bible study groups.

We are in need of Prayer and financial partners,
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Sunday, March 16, 2014

+DEV+ Lifetime Of Adventures

Date: March 16, 2014 8:43 PM
Topic: +DEV+  Lifetime Of Adventures

Lifetime Of Adventures

"'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.'" (Jeremiah 29:11)

Scripture Focus: Psalm 139:1-16

Author Matthew Kelly writes that God created people with common needs and hearts full of dreams and desires through which He calls to us. He gave all of us special abilities, too - tools for an adventure with Him. When we choose to embrace our Creator's call, each step in our journey is mapped to bring us into a closer, more intimate relationship with Him.

Do you yearn for peace and joy? Are your dreams unrealized or broken? Great! That's just the place God longs for us to reach. Then we are ready to hear Him invite us on His amazing adventure. The Bible is filled with people whose lives He used. God has plans for us today, too, plans as unique as each of us are.

Wherever you find yourself in life, I pray that these spiritual adventures of the men and woman of the Word will hearten you on your journey with Jesus. Remember, your map is in His hand. Only through Jesus Christ is the plan complete. He has your airplane revved up, ready to take off. Hop into the co-pilot's seat and say, "Let's go!"

Insight:  "God, in all His Glory, extends the gift of common grace to people from all walks of life, meeting them where they are..." (Philip Ryken)

Please feel free to use this devotional to send on to your friends or share with your church fellowship and Bible study groups.

We are in need of Prayer and financial partners,
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Thursday, March 13, 2014

+DEV+ Be Faithful

Date: March 13, 2014 11:20 PM
Topic: +DEV+  Be Faithful

Be Faithful

"To the angel of the church in Smyrna...Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you the crown of life." (Revelation 2:8, 10)

Scripture Focus: Revelation 2:8-11

Of the seven churches of Revelation, Smyrna experienced suffering and persecution yet was faithful to God, trusting and relying on His promises. Faithfulness comes from keeping our focus on Jesus and realizing that Jesus declared, "As the Father has sent me, I am sending you"
(John 20:21).

Having changed locations a number of times in the military, we have passed on to believing friends the privilege of carrying the torch of faith. What greater honor and privilege could we have than this? Our role is to tell of the Good News concerning Jesus, to allow others to see Him and His joy in us. On our own we can't do this, but we have the power of the Holy Spirit within us. We're part of an ongoing mission taking place throughout the entire world. Until that day when we see Him again and our joy is made complete, we keep Christ at the center of our lives. "For what is our hope, our joy... in the presence of our Lord Jesus when he comes? Is it not you? Indeed, you are our glory and joy"
(1 Thessalonians 2:19-20).

Insight:  "Oh may all who come behind us find us faithful.  May the fire of our devotion light their way." (Jon Mohr, 1988)

Please feel free to use this devotional to send on to your friends or share with your church fellowship and Bible study groups.
We are in need of Prayer and financial partners,
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Wednesday, March 12, 2014

+DEV+ Rejoice - One Repentant Sinner

Date: March 12, 2014 9:47 PM
Topic: +DEV+  Rejoice - One Repentant Sinner

Rejoice - One Repentant Sinner

"'Rejoice with me; I have found my lost coin.' In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents." (Luke 15:9-10)

Scripture Focus: Luke 15:1-10

One by one and in His providence, God is drawing people to Himself. E. Stanley Jones in his book “A Song of Ascents” tells of the conversion of Mr. Kurusu, Japanese Special Envoy for Peace. WW2 had taken place; Jones met with Kurusu. "Mr. Kurusu, are you a Christian?" Jones asked. "No," he said. Jones said, "Don't you want to be?" Kurusu replied, "Yes." Jones and Kurusu knelt and prayed while he submitted his life to Christ. When they met two years later in Japan, Kurusu said, "I couldn't wait! I've been baptized." Both men had tried to keep the war from happening but failed. Jones says, "God rescued out of that failure some good. For Kurusu, he found Christ. For Jones, he led others to Christ."

What joy to know that our Heavenly Father brings enemies together, binding them in Christ, and "that in all things God works for the good of those who love him" (Romans 8:28). We can rejoice today in the salvation He has given us and which He brings to people of every nationality and color around the world.

Insight: It's not ours to succeed or fail, only ours to do the highest we know and leave the results with God.

Please feel free to use this devotional to send on to your friends or share with your church fellowship and Bible study groups.

We are in need of Prayer and financial partners,
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Tuesday, March 11, 2014

Seventy-two killed resisting gun confiscation in Boston!

Date: March 11, 2014 6:58 PM
Topic: Seventy-two killed resisting gun confiscation in Boston!

Seventy-two killed resisting gun confiscation in Boston!
Boston – National Guard units seeking to confiscate a cache of recently banned assault weapons were ambushed by elements of a Para-military extremist faction. Military and law enforcement sources estimate that 72 were killed and more than 200 injured before government forces were compelled to withdraw.
Speaking after the clash, Massachusetts Governor Thomas Gage declared that the extremist faction, which was made up of local citizens, has links to the radical right-wing tax protest movement.
Gage blamed the extremists for recent incidents of vandalism directed against internal revenue offices. The governor, who described the group’s organizers as “criminals,” issued an executive order authorizing the summary arrest of any individual who has interfered with the government’s efforts to secure law and order.
The military raid on the extremist arsenal followed wide-spread refusal by the local citizenry to turn over recently outlawed assault weapons.
Gage issued a ban on military-style assault weapons and ammunition earlier in the week. This decision followed a meeting in early this month between government and military leaders at which the governor authorized the forcible confiscation of illegal arms.
One government official, speaking on condition of anonymity, pointed out that “none of these people would have been killed had the extremists obeyed the law and turned over their weapons voluntarily.”
Government troops initially succeeded in confiscating a large supply of outlawed weapons and ammunition. However, troops attempting to seize arms and ammunition in Lexington met with resistance from heavily-armed extremists who had been tipped off regarding the government’s plans.
During a tense standoff in the Lexington town park, National Guard Colonel Francis Smith, commander of the government operation, ordered the armed group to surrender and return to their homes. The impasse was broken by a single shot, which was reportedly fired by one of the right-wing extremists.
Eight civilians were killed in the ensuing exchange.
Ironically, the local citizenry blamed government forces rather than the extremists for the civilian deaths. Before order could be restored, armed citizens from surrounding areas had descended upon the guard units. Colonel Smith, finding his forces over matched by the armed mob, ordered a retreat.
Governor Gage has called upon citizens to support the state/national joint task force in its effort to restore law and order. The governor also demanded the surrender of those responsible for planning and leading the attack against the government troops.
Samuel Adams, Paul Revere, and John Hancock, who have been identified as “ringleaders” of the extremist faction, remain at large.
And this fellow Americans, is how the American Revolution began, April 20, 1775.

On July 4th, 1776 these same extremists signed the Declaration of Independence, pledging to each other and their countrymen their lives, fortunes, and sacred honor. Many of them lost everything, including their families and their lives over the course of the next few years.
Lest we forget…


Please feel free to use this devotional to send on to your friends or share with your church fellowship and Bible study groups.


We are in need of Prayer and financial partners,
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+DEV+ God Intensely Loves Us

Date: March 11, 2014 1:07 AM
Topic: +DEV+  God Intensely Loves Us

God Intensely Loves Us

"I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well." (Psalm 139:14)

Scripture Focus: Psalm 139

We all need to be reminded of how much we are loved by God, especially when the world's cares and burdens have us feeling unloved. Psalm 139 is a great place to find that affirmation. God has created us carefully and purposefully and is very interested in every facet of our lives.

Jesus taught us that the very hairs of our head are numbered (Matthew 10:30); that as He cares for the birds of the air, the lilies and the grass of the field, He knows and cares for us even more (Matthew 6:26-34). Like any good parent, He assures us that He will provide for and care for us.

He is the great designer of our lives, knowing our special achievements and our routines, the things that surprise us, the circumstances that lead to success or drain our energy. He reminds us in Luke 15 of the celebration over a lost sheep, lost coin, or lost son when each is found. When we wander and come back to Him, He celebrates. He intensely loves us and is with us through every situation, listening as we share our heart with Him.

Insight: It's good to know that what concerns me concerns my Heavenly Father. i am no bother to Him!

Please feel free to use this devotional to send on to your friends or share with your church fellowship and Bible study groups.


We are in need of Prayer and financial partners,
If you would like to become a prayer partner and a financial partner with monthly or one time gifts.
A freewill offering to Restoration Ministry may be made via PayPal at our web site:    http://www.rollanet.org/~restore/donations.htm
 
You will receive a copy of both complete sets of devotionals series: "Forgiveness" Series and the "Grace" Series or their choice of our Bible Study Syllabus Booklets

Sunday, March 9, 2014

+DEV+ We Need To See Jesus

Date: March 9, 2014 10:36 PM
Topic: +DEV+  We Need To See Jesus

We Need To See Jesus

"They came to Philip... with a request. 'Sir,' they said, 'we would like to see Jesus.'" (John 12:21)

Scripture Focus: John 12:20-36

Have you noticed how easy it is to become distracted from our first priority? After many years of ministry, I certainly have seen that in our churches. We debate which Bible translations to use and which hymn book to sing out of; we set up committees until there are hardly enough people to attend them all; we debate about musical instruments vs. piano and organ, worship teams vs. choirs, etc. Though there is a place for these discussions, they are not why the church exists. The church's priority (and ours) is to exalt Jesus Christ. Etch that into your heart!

How we need the passion behind the words of John 12:21: "Sir, we would like to see Jesus"! I taped a copy of that verse to the pen holder on my desk, facing me, as a daily reminder to not be sidetracked with non-essentials. You may be trying to find your way through life and all of its clutter. What you really need is to see Jesus. Nail these words to your own spirit, remembering that Jesus' greatest priority, even as the nails held Him to the cross, is you!

Insight: It is the community of people dedicated to following Jesus who will put the lordship of Christ on display.

Please feel free to use this devotional to send on to your friends or share with your church fellowship and Bible study groups.

We are in need of Prayer and financial partners,
If you would like to become a prayer partner and a financial partner with monthly or one time gifts.
A freewill offering to Restoration Ministry may be made via PayPal at our web site:    http://www.rollanet.org/~restore/donations.htm
 
You will receive a copy of both complete sets of devotionals series: "Forgiveness" Series and the "Grace" Series or their choice of our Bible Study Syllabus Booklets

Friday, March 7, 2014

+DEV+ Faith Is The Joy Of Fellowship

Date: March 7, 2014 1:26 AM
Topic: +DEV+  Faith Is The  Joy Of Fellowship

Faith Is The Joy Of Fellowship

"All the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of his possessions was his own, but they shared everything they had." (Acts 4:32)

Scripture Focus: Acts 4:23-35

I sat around the campfire with family and friends, and the sharing and laughter went on for several hours. Most in this circle had come through times of shattered dreams, broken relationships, loss of loved ones, and other hardships. Yet the sincerity and joy of their faith was evident. There was no hidden motive or agenda, no "one-up-manship" as they spoke.

The unifying factor was our faith in the Savior. They had weathered the storms of life because Jesus was there, walking through it with them and giving them strength to endure. While circumstances weren't perfect, they had Him and knew that He promised to guide, direct, sustain, and even restore their joy. Sure, the scars were there, but the reality of a living Savior offered the ability to smile and extend love and friendship to those around them.

No matter how deep the wounds and scars in your life, Jesus Christ brings hope and joy back to you. He bears the scars forever of having died for every heartache and evil you've known.

Insight: The touch of God upon the soul reminds us that He is there.

Please feel free to use this devotional to send on to your friends or share with your church fellowship and Bible study groups.


We are in need of Prayer and financial partners,
If you would like to become a prayer partner and a financial partner with monthly or one time gifts.
A freewill offering to Restoration Ministry may be made via PayPal at our web site:    http://www.rollanet.org/~restore/donations.htm
 
You will receive a copy of both complete sets of devotionals series: "Forgiveness" Series and the "Grace" Series or their choice of our Bible Study Syllabus Booklets

Wednesday, March 5, 2014

+DEV+ Jesus Overcame the World

Date: March 5, 2014 10:26 PM
Topic: +DEV+  Jesus Overcame the World

Jesus Overcame the World

"'No weapon forged against you will prevail, and you will refute every tongue that accuses you. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and this is their vindication from me,' declares the Lord." (Isaiah 54:17)

Scripture Focus: Isaiah 54:11-17

While this passage refers to the coming time when our Lord returns, it also is practical now. I know these words of Isaiah meant much to my doctor and friend whose son in the military was in a war-zone. My friend prayed this verse constantly, asking God to keep any enemy or weapon from touching his son. To be an overcomer implies that one, first is or has experienced being under attack in some way. Hardly anyone would not fit that description.

Ideally, we'd all emerge from the "battle zone" unwavering in our faith and still joyful in Christ. I've seen many a trial-worn believer come through times of suffering. If it weren't for the fact that our Overcomer, Jesus, endured every hardship and evil of this world for us, it would indeed be hard to carry on.

Satan's goal is to squeeze us into the world's mold. God's goal is for us to follow Him and battle the world's wickedness, living "self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age" (Titus 2:12). Celebrate your faith in our ultimate Overcomer!

Insight: Jesus tells us to be courageous in our struggles, for He has already won victory and peace for us.

Please feel free to use this devotional to send on to your friends or share with your church fellowship and Bible study groups.

We are in need of Prayer and financial partners,
If you would like to become a prayer partner and a financial partner with monthly or one time gifts.
A freewill offering to Restoration Ministry may be made via PayPal at our web site:    http://www.rollanet.org/~restore/donations.htm
 
You will receive a copy of both complete sets of devotionals series: "Forgiveness" Series and the "Grace" Series or their choice of our Bible Study Syllabus Booklets

Tuesday, March 4, 2014

+DEV+ World Changers

Date: March 4, 2014 10:49 PM
Topic: +DEV+  World Changers

World Changers

"On that day a great persecution broke out against the church at Jerusalem, and all except the apostles were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria." (Acts 8:1)

Scripture Focus: Acts 8:1-25

I've been reading in Acts of how God moved through the early church to spread the Gospel. Suffering and persecution had forced the Christians in Jerusalem out of their comfort zone and into Judea and Samaria, fulfilling the second part of Acts 8:1.

It's true that some are called and commissioned to preach the Gospel, but all of us who belong to Him are commissioned to live the Gospel. I recently read somewhere that ordinary people can become extraordinary world changers. God may move us out of our comfort zones, taking us ordinary people and doing His extraordinary work through us. What greater honor could there be than representing Him to others?

As I write these words, a friend is in Uganda teaching and preaching to thousands. Out of his comfort zone? Absolutely! And just the other night we visited two "retired" Christian friends who serve Christ as they volunteer driving residents wherever they need to go. Through one person at a time living out the joy of Christ in their lives, the world is being changed!

Insight: We are His branches that transmit the fruit of him, the vine, to those who are spiritually hungry.

Please feel free to use this devotional to send on to your friends or share with your church fellowship and Bible study groups.

We are in need of Prayer and financial partners,
If you would like to become a prayer partner and a financial partner with monthly or one time gifts.
A freewill offering to Restoration Ministry may be made via PayPal at our web site:    http://www.rollanet.org/~restore/donations.htm
 
You will receive a copy of both complete sets of devotionals series: "Forgiveness" Series and the "Grace" Series or their choice of our Bible Study Syllabus Booklets

Monday, March 3, 2014

+DEV+ The Lasting Goodness Of God

Date: March 3, 2014 8:59 PM
Topic: +DEV+  The Lasting Goodness Of God

The Lasting Goodness Of God

"Go, eat your food with gladness, and drink your wine with a joyful heart, for it is now that God favors what you do." (Ecclesiastes 9:7)

Scripture Focus: Ecclesiastes 9:1-10

Do you ever long for a break so that you can come up for a breath of air? It's typical for many of us to lead lives that are simply too busy. We have careers that surround us with unsolvable problems, relationships that are draining, commitments that suffocate. And thus people at every turn are left restless and without peace or hope. Is that familiar to you or to someone you know?

The Old Testament book of Ecclesiastes gives us practical words on coping with such life issues. Writing in his later years, Solomon tells us to take pleasure in what we are doing and enjoy life because it comes as a gift from the hand of God. He challenges us to live life one day at a time. Even with the limitations that confront us, we can enjoy the lasting goodness of God.

When you belong to Jesus and daily commit your way to Him, it matters not what tempest rises up against you; He will go through it with you. Solomon tells us to do the basics: eat and drink with a joyful heart. Focus on Him who gives you all good things.

Insight: Meaning and fulfillment are found in Jesus Christ and the life He has purchased for you at the cross.

Please feel free to use this devotional to send on to your friends or share with your church fellowship and Bible study groups.

We are in need of Prayer and financial partners,
If you would like to become a prayer partner and a financial partner with monthly or one time gifts.
A freewill offering to Restoration Ministry may be made via PayPal at our web site:    http://www.rollanet.org/~restore/donations.htm
 
You will receive a copy of both complete sets of devotionals series: "Forgiveness" Series and the "Grace" Series or their choice of our Bible Study Syllabus Booklets

Sunday, March 2, 2014

+DEV+ Lives Transformed

Date: March 2, 2014 10:35 PM
Topic: +DEV+  Lives Transformed

Lives Transformed


"When they came to Jesus, they saw the man who had been possessed by the legion of demons, sitting there, dressed and in his right mind... So the man went away and began to tell in the Decapolis how much Jesus had done for him." (Mark 5:15, 20)

Scripture Focus: Mark 5:1-20

There was probably no more earthy person in those days than one possessed by a demon. The story takes us from this man whose dwelling was in a burial chamber carved out of rock on the hillside, to the freedom of his being healed of the devil's dominance in his life. We read that he was clothed and in his right mind and moving on to the center of the city to proclaim "how much Jesus had done for him." There is nothing more powerful than a personal story. I was blind, but now I see. I was demon-possessed, but now I am free. I was lost, but now am found! Great joy comes from God's transformational work of love and grace.

We may not have found ourselves in such dire straits as the demon-possessed man. But still God takes each one of us from the pit of our sin to a living testimony of how He has and is creating a new person in us. The stories of lives transformed bring joy, hope, courage and renewal. We can't help but find joy in being part of God's redemptive plan and in telling others about it!

Insight: God's desire for us, His children, is to push us into a fresh awareness of His presence.

Please feel free to use this devotional to send on to your friends or share with your church fellowship and Bible study groups.

We are in need of Prayer and financial partners,
If you would like to become a prayer partner and a financial partner with monthly or one time gifts.
A freewill offering to Restoration Ministry may be made via PayPal at our web site:    http://www.rollanet.org/~restore/donations.htm
 
You will receive a copy of both complete sets of devotionals series: "Forgiveness" Series and the "Grace" Series or their choice of our Bible Study Syllabus Booklets