+DEV+ Resurrection Living

Date: June 12, 2016 at 10:24 PM

Topic: +DEV+  Resurrection Living

Resurrection Living

"If there is no resurrection of the dead, then not even Christ has been raised. And if Christ has not been raised, our preaching is useless and so is your faith." 1 Corinthians 15:13-14

Scripture Focus: 1 Corinthians 15:12-20

Many people today have trouble believing in a bodily resurrection just as Greek communities in Roman times did. All sorts of theories and explanations were posed to "prove" that Jesus Christ could not have risen from the dead (see Matthew 28:11-15). Even today Christ's bodily resurrection remains a stumbling block for many in coming to faith. Yet Paul says we must believe in it or our faith is useless. 

The resurrection of Christ is the centerpiece of the Christian faith. It's what our faith hinges on. All who believe in Him will be raised one day, too. The bodily resurrection is important not just because it proved Jesus Christ is the Son of God, but also (and much more!) it proved that we would live again just like Him. If there is no resurrection at all, then Christ wasn't raised. If Christ wasn't raised, then we won't be either. 

The Christian faith is about new life in Christ. It is not about simply being a better person by following good teaching. Our faith in Christ makes us new creations.

Insight: Christ didn't come to show us a better way to live, but to make us into new creations so that we might live eternally for 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 urgent need of Prayer and financial partners,

If you would like to become a prayer partner and or 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

  

+DEV+ We Have Overcome

Date: May 31, 2016 at 1:11 AM

Topic: +DEV+  We Have Overcome

We Have Overcome

"You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world." 1 John 4:4

Scripture Focus: 1 John 4:1-6

We have already "overcome" false spirits and false prophets because our God who reigns in our hearts is far greater than Satan, the father of the lies of this world. The Spirit of Christ in us is constantly overcoming the spirit of the Anti-Christ. Sometimes it is hard to imagine that all of this spiritual warfare is happening, especially on days and at times when things seem to be going well for us. 

But even a moment's glance into the evil and sin surrounding us brings us back to reality. The lies may run from the extremes of religious groups trying to persuade us to worship other gods to Hollywood enticing us to live only for success, beauty and self. We can overcome the lies of the false teachers in this world by affirming the truth of Scripture. 

John gave us a clear way to test what we're dealing with. "Every spirit that acknowledges that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God, but every spirit that does not acknowledge Jesus is not from God" (vs. 2-3). Praise God He has made us over-comers!

Insight: The truth of God defeats the lies of Satan. The good news of Jesus Christ defeats the bad news of the Anti-Christ.

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 urgent need of Prayer and financial partners,

If you would like to become a prayer partner and or 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

  

+DEV+ Peace Offering?

Date: May 12, 2016 at 12:59 AM

Topic: +DEV+  Peace Offering?

Peace Offering?

"Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you." Ephesians 4:32

Scripture Focus: Genesis 32:3-12, 33:1-10

Have you ever referred to a gift of food as a "peace offering"? Relationships are fragile things. Betrayals, misunderstandings, words spoken in anger do damage. Fear of rejection and repeated pain cause our repentant hearts to pull back even further, and the initial mess keeps getting messier! 

If you're a child of God in this situation, the healing must begin with you. Forgiveness for sin against a holy God was extended to us through Jesus' death on the cross (John 3:17). That fact should compel us to seek peace with those we've hurt...and with those who've hurt us. 

Hospitality is so often a catalyst for mending broken relationships: handing a plate of cookies across the fence to the neighbor who offended, inviting the couple with whom you've quarreled to come for coffee or a meal, a loaf of banana bread and note of apology to an estranged co-worker...these are simple instruments that foster healing, but they become powerful in God's hands. Trust Him to use your creative acts of kindness to accomplish it!

Insight:  "Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that."  (Martin Luther King, Jr.)

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 urgent need of Prayer and financial partners,

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A freewill offering to Restoration Ministry may be made via PayPal at our web site:    http://www.rollanet.org/~restore/donations.htm

  

+DEV+ This Is My Body

Date: May 9, 2016 at 12:59 AM

Topic: +DEV+  This Is My Body

This Is My Body

"Jesus took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to his disciples, saying, Take it; this is my body. Then he took the cup, gave thanks and offered it to them... This is my blood... poured out for many." Mark 14:22-24

Scripture Focus: Mark 14:12-16, John 14

Leonardo Da Vinci's depiction of Jesus' last supper with His disciples shows serenity and peaceful fellowship. But the actual event was something else entirely! The air must have been thick with tension, the confused disciples wringing their hands with fear, sorrow and disappointed hopes. 

Yet Jesus chose the setting of a final shared meal to comfort and calm them, reinforcing past lessons about His Father's kingdom. Having washed their feet, He bade them sit down to a highly symbolic meal, passing them broken bits of bread, pouring wine into cups held in trembling hands. Then this gentle host gave them a glimpse into heaven itself, assuring them that though He must leave them, He would return one day, "that you also may be where I am." 

How amazing that all Christ's true followers share in this comforting promise! One day, we will join those same disciples at another meal, the Marriage Feast of the Lamb. And this time there will be no confusion, fear or anxiety...only the joyous reunion of God and His family.

Insight: He the pearly gates will open so that I may enter in; for He purchased my redemption and forgave me all my sin. (Frederick A. Blom, 1917)

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 urgent need of Prayer and financial partners,

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A freewill offering to Restoration Ministry may be made via PayPal at our web site:    http://www.rollanet.org/~restore/donations.htm

  

+DEV+ Put Your Hope In God

Date: May 5, 2016 at 11:28 PM

Topic: +DEV+  Put Your Hope In God

Put Your Hope In God

"Command those who are rich... not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment." 1 Timothy 6:17

Scripture Focus: 1 Kings 17:1-16

Poor Elijah! Called by God to pronounce judgment on Israel. Through a long succession of evil kings, the nation had turned its back on God and had become particularly vicious towards His prophets. So dangerous was the situation that God directed Elijah to escape and hide. In a remote ravine, the Lord miraculously provided food and water. When the famine reached him there, God sent him even farther away. 

In his new hiding place, Elijah was provided for by a penniless widow with only enough flour and oil for one final meal of cake. But when Elijah asked her to share it with him, her heart went out to this forlorn fugitive. She risked her very life, and that of her son, when she saw a need and heard the call of God to meet it. 

It requires great faith to make such sacrifice in the face of seemingly insurmountable obstacles. Making even small sacrifices is difficult for many of us. But living by faith is our calling. God specializes in turning our most meager offerings into downright miracles.

Insight: Give God your flour and oil, and watch Him do great things with 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 urgent need of Prayer and financial partners,

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+DEV+ Empty Actions?

Date: May 5, 2016 at 2:39 AM

Topic: +DEV+  Empty Actions?

Empty Actions?

"If anyone...sees a brother in need but has no pity on him, how can the love of God be in him? Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth." 1 John 3:17-18

Scripture Focus: John 19:25-27, 1 Timothy 5:1-16

The saying "Hospitality begins at home" doesn't necessarily mean that it can only take place within our own four walls...but it should begin there. Home is where family is, where God's love must be shown. It's in the day-to-day of our own households that love is practiced and honed. 

Sometimes we may be guilty of taking our families for granted, assuming they know they're special to us when, in fact, they need to be reminded. When was the last time you held your child's face, peered into his eyes and told him how precious he is to you? Have you fixed your busy wife a cup of coffee today, rubbed the tired shoulders of your faithful, hard-working husband? Have you spoken words of encouragement to a troubled brother or sister? 

We know Jesus cared deeply for His parents and siblings. How much more should we, in the comfort and blessing of our homes, do likewise? Since we are the recipients of Christ's tender hospitality to us - He has welcomed us into His family! - we can in gratitude extend kindness to others.

Insight:  "Home is heaven for beginners."  (Charles Henry Parkhurst)

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 urgent need of Prayer and financial partners,

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+DEV+ At Jesus' Feet

Date: May 3, 2016 at 10:18 PM

Topic: +DEV+  At Jesus' Feet

At Jesus' Feet

"But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." Matthew 6:33

Scripture Focus: Luke 10:38-41, John 11:1-43, 12:1-7

Mary and Martha, along with their brother Lazarus, were some of Jesus' closest friends. He and His disciples often stayed with them in Bethany as they traveled from village to village. On the occasion recounted in Luke 10, Martha busied herself with all the arrangements for a large entourage, while Mary sat at Jesus' feet, hanging on His every word, hungry for His teachings. 

I can almost feel Martha's pent-up resentment, complaining to the Lord that Mary wasn't helping with the housework. Growing bitterness robbed her of the joy that hospitality in Jesus' name should bring. But far from chastising Mary, Jesus gently rebukes her sister instead! "Martha...Martha," Can you hear the love in His voice? "Mary has chosen what is better..."

Have you sat at Jesus' feet today? Anything we do in Jesus' name begins with knowing and glorifying Him. That can only happen as we prioritize time in His presence. Meet Him in His Word and prayer, and He will guide and bring joy to all your other concerns throughout the day.

Insight: Hospitality is first and foremost about bringing people to the feet of Jesus. all our best efforts begin 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 urgent need of Prayer and financial partners,

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+DEV+ The Good Samaritan

Date: May 2, 2016 at 11:13 PM

Topic: +DEV+  The Good Samaritan

The Good Samaritan

"By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another." John 13:35

Scripture Focus: Luke 10:25-37

In Jesus' day bitter animosity between Jews and Samaritans was well established. The Jews considered their pure Hebrew blood superior to that of interbred Samaritans; the Samaritans despised the Jews' condescending smugness. To put it bluntly, they hated each other. 

It was unheard of for Jews and Samaritans to mix socially, and still more improbable that they would make even the smallest sacrifice for each other. Jesus desperately desired to show His followers that every person is our brother, that only He can recreate in us hearts of compassion. 

The Samaritan in Jesus' parable had just such a changed heart. He did more than save his enemy's life...he went to considerable trouble and expense to ensure this stripped, stricken Jew had shelter, food and medical care for as long as it took to heal. 

Wounded people are all around us, and Jesus calls us to minister to them. Might He put a hurting one across your path today? Meet that need with Christ's lovingkindness, regardless of bias or cultural differences.

Insight: Knowing God's law is not enough... we must also put it into action!

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 urgent need of Prayer and financial partners,

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+DEV+ The Presence Of Jesus

Date: May 1, 2016 at 11:12 PM

Topic: +DEV+  The Presence Of Jesus

The Presence Of Jesus

"Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me." Revelation 3:20

Scripture Focus: John 17:6-26

I like to think of a Christian home as a living body, with Jesus as it's beating heart. When people enter my home for a meal, a meeting, or for counseling, I try to imagine I'm bringing them into fellowship with the invisible but very present Center of our household. 

On the many occasions when Jesus broke bread and blessed it, He wasn't just asking for nourishment for Himself and His companions. He was seeking God's favor in granting every good thing that happens when people gather in a cozy space or over a good meal: relationship, laughter, caring, joy...bonds that say, "I love being with you, sharing what I have with you. I'm so glad you're here with me!" 

God's whole purpose in reconciling us to Himself was for this very end: fellowship! When we bow our heads to pray or open His Word to study, surely our Father's heart beats with joy to have us come in and be near Him. God grant that all who come through our doors will sense that same joyous presence of Jesus in our lives and in our homes.

Insight: The best way to push someone into God's heart is to pull them into your own.

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 urgent need of Prayer and financial partners,

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A freewill offering to Restoration Ministry may be made via PayPal at our web site:    http://www.rollanet.org/~restore/donations.htm

  

+DEV+ Hospitality Is Needed

Date: April 28, 2016 at 10:17 PM

Topic: +DEV+  Hospitality Is Needed

Hospitality Is Needed

"...It is written: Man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God." Matthew 4:4

Scripture Focus: Matthew 14:13-21

A friend told me he'd recently invited a co-worker home for an impromptu supper with his family. He sat at his rowdy table in almost stunned enjoyment, and on leaving told him it was the first time in his adult life he'd been invited into someone's home for a meal. 

Our culture is getting so isolated. Tense family dynamics and overwhelming schedules edge out the joy of even the simplest hospitality. Just getting a meal on the table for our own families is often all we can manage...and Satan loves the confusion and self-focus our too-busy lifestyles bring. 

At least twice during His teaching ministry Jesus - no doubt exhausted Himself - invited huge, hungry audiences to be seated on the ground. Then He instructed His grumbling disciples to feed them, knowing that when the crowd's most dire needs were met, they could better hear what He wanted to tell them. 

A boy's meager lunch brought refreshment to bodies...and hearts. Think how God can bless your smallest effort to make room at your table for another in His name!

Insight: Opening our homes to others tells them they are valued... precious to us and precious to 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 urgent need of Prayer and financial partners,

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A freewill offering to Restoration Ministry may be made via PayPal at our web site:    http://www.rollanet.org/~restore/donations.htm

  

+DEV+ I Will Give You Rest

Date: April 28, 2016 at 1:59 AM

Topic: +DEV+  I Will Give You Rest

I Will Give You Rest

"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." Matthew 11:28

Scripture Focus: John 21 

It's early morning on the Sea of Galilee, and Jesus' disciples are rowing home after an exhausting night of fishing. As they near the shore, the delectable aromas of roasting fish and fresh-baked bread waft over the water. Jesus is there, calling, "Come and have breakfast!" 

How those hungry fisherman must have welcomed the sight, clamoring from the boat to encircle the fire, warming chapped fingers and feet, stretching tired back muscles. As food passed from one grimy hand to another, excited talk of the night's catch surely echoed in the air. 

Jesus always provided exactly what people needed just when they needed it. Here is hospitality at its humble best! No fine linens or fancy china, just food and fellowship. It was at that simple shoreline breakfast that Jesus began a dialogue with Peter that would set a course for his future leadership of Christ's church. 

Hospitality needn't be glossy. Jesus' unadorned service changed and empowered the disciples' lives. It changes and empowers ours, too.

Insight: The simplest and most humble acts of love are often God's means for accomplishing his greatest purposes.

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 urgent need of Prayer and financial partners,

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A freewill offering to Restoration Ministry may be made via PayPal at our web site:    http://www.rollanet.org/~restore/donations.htm

  

+DEV+ To Be His Hands And Feet

Date: April 27, 2016 at 1:53 AM

Topic: +DEV+  To Be His Hands And Feet

To Be His Hands And Feet

"We are therefore Christ's ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us." 2 Corinthians 5:20

Scripture Focus: Romans 12:9-13 Mark 10:42-45

In my dictionary which defines hospitality as "the cordial and generous reception of or disposition toward guests." Just above it is the word hospital, "an institution that provides treatment for the sick or injured." Despite their similar spellings, the two words are rarely connected in our thinking. But, oh, how truly intertwined they are! 

Our world is teeming with exhausted, broken, lonely souls starving for fellowship, relationship and healing. Jesus understood the importance of hospitality. Throughout His ministry, He reached out to say, "Come, rest; let me ease your burden, give you peace and feed you...I am the Bread of Life." His treatment of those who came to Him in need was always welcoming, generous and humble...and it was healing! 

The hospitality Jesus modeled begins with allowing Him to heal and be at home in our own hearts. Then His grace flows out of us in many ways. God's Word is our guide, the Holy Spirit our teacher. Opportunities to be His hands and feet in a heartsick world are endless.

Insight: God ordained hospitality so that those we usher into our hearts and homes will be loved right into His kingdom!

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 urgent need of Prayer and financial partners,

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A freewill offering to Restoration Ministry may be made via PayPal at our web site:    http://www.rollanet.org/~restore/donations.htm

  

+DEV+ Our Saviour Cried

Date: April 25, 2016 at 11:46 PM

Topic: +DEV+  Our Saviour Cried

Our Saviour Cried

"As he approached Jerusalem and saw the city, he wept over it and said, If you, even you, had only known on this day what would bring you peace - but now it is hidden from your eyes." LUKE 19:41-42

Scripture Focus: Luke 19:28-44

What a picture! The soon-to-be risen Son of God, Jesus the Messiah who will ascend to His Father, is now broken over His people who have rejected Him. He's grieving over Jerusalem, knowing the superficiality of the peoples' hearts. This crowd who shouted "hurray" on His behalf would soon cry out for His death. Knowing the destruction and ruin of Jerusalem that would take place in AD 70 with the Romans, He wept. Jerusalem's destruction was divine judgment for their failure to recognize and embrace their Messiah. 

Respond to the Holy Spirit's call on your heart today. He longs to welcome us home. He's not "wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance" (2 Peter 3:9). After all, Christ died for us and wants to reach every person possible before the end of time. He will come again! We must be ready! Many in Jerusalem failed to acknowledge Jesus as Savior; we must not make the same mistake. Put Jesus Christ on the throne of your life today. It's the most important decision you will ever make.

Insight: The brokenness of Jesus and tears on our behalf should drive us into His arms.

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 urgent need of Prayer and financial partners,

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+DEV+ True Knowledge

Date: April 22, 2016 at 2:59 AM

Topic: +DEV+  True Knowledge

True Knowledge

"By the meekness and gentleness of Christ, I appeal to you - I, Paul, who am 'timid' when face to face with you, but 'bold' when away!" 2 Corinthians 10:1

Scripture Focus: 2 Corinthians 10:1-11

What a remarkable person was the Apostle Paul. As we read his letters, we find a man unafraid to stand boldly before others and declare Christ. Yet, within that boldness is a man of humility and gentleness, as evidenced here. 

He had written to the Corinthian church addressing many issues they needed to deal with. But he reminded his readers and us of the reality of spiritual warfare - a battle of principles, philosophies and world views. In humility and total dependence upon God, there would be victory. Paul knew the world scorns the Gospel and sets up clever arguments against it. But God's people - humbled and gentle through His Spirit - could destroy such arguments. True knowledge of God comes only through faith and the "sword of the Spirit" (Ephesians 6:17), the Word of God. 

Thus we should bring every thought captive to Christ, destroying strongholds. Spiritual warfare will be a part of life in this world. May God help us free others from the forces of darkness and bring them to faith in Christ.

Insight: God will allow situations in our life beyond our ability to cope, teaching us to trust 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 urgent need of Prayer and financial partners,

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+DEV+ We Have Hope!

Date: April 21, 2016 at 1:40 AM

Topic: +DEV+  We Have Hope!

We Have Hope!

"Has not my hand made all these things, and so they came into being? declares the Lord. This is the one I esteem: he who is humble and contrite in spirit, and trembles at my word." Isaiah 66:2

Scripture Focus: Isaiah 66:1-6

God is not looking for a temple of stone for His dwelling place. He is looking for hearts that are not concerned with the externalities of religion. He wants those who take His Word seriously. Jesus said, "If anyone loves me, he will obey my teaching. My Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him" (John 14:23). 

But what happens when we do not obey His teaching? Does God not love us then? Isn't it every day (every hour!) that we disobey? When our world constantly presents us with what is spectacular or sensational, those things begin to look more attractive than obedience. 

Do not despair, for the One that this world did not esteem at all - the One with no physical beauty to attract us to Him - came to be punished for our failures and to be crushed for our sins. Before that day came at Calvary, He lived His perfect life for us. Our shortcomings are replaced with Jesus' faultless obedience. With gratitude, we strive to obey, and because our Savior has stood in our place, we have hope!

Insight: How profoundly humbling that the God of the universe would be pleased to dwell in my sin-stained heart!

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 urgent need of Prayer and financial partners,

If you would like to become a prayer partner and or 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

  

Date: April 21, 2016 at 1:40 AM

Topic: +DEV+  We Have Hope!

We Have Hope!

"Has not my hand made all these things, and so they came into being? declares the Lord. This is the one I esteem: he who is humble and contrite in spirit, and trembles at my word." Isaiah 66:2

Scripture Focus: Isaiah 66:1-6

God is not looking for a temple of stone for His dwelling place. He is looking for hearts that are not concerned with the externalities of religion. He wants those who take His Word seriously. Jesus said, "If anyone loves me, he will obey my teaching. My Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him" (John 14:23). 

But what happens when we do not obey His teaching? Does God not love us then? Isn't it every day (every hour!) that we disobey? When our world constantly presents us with what is spectacular or sensational, those things begin to look more attractive than obedience. 

Do not despair, for the One that this world did not esteem at all - the One with no physical beauty to attract us to Him - came to be punished for our failures and to be crushed for our sins. Before that day came at Calvary, He lived His perfect life for us. Our shortcomings are replaced with Jesus' faultless obedience. With gratitude, we strive to obey, and because our Savior has stood in our place, we have hope!

Insight: How profoundly humbling that the God of the universe would be pleased to dwell in my sin-stained heart!

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 urgent need of Prayer and financial partners,

If you would like to become a prayer partner and or 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

  

+DEV+ Be Subject To Rulers

Date: April 20, 2016 at 1:29 AM

Topic: +DEV+  Be Subject To Rulers

Be Subject To Rulers

"Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good, to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and to show true humility toward all men." Titus 3:1-2

Scripture Focus: Titus 3:1-15

Dr. Harold Sala writes about society: "No longer is something right or wrong, moral or immoral. We have become amoral, which means anything goes." 

Many people today have no foundation at all for integrity. As Christians, we are followers of Christ and His Word, and so it seems that with the Spirit working in us, doing the things on this list ought to be easy. But do you ever struggle with being peaceable, doing only good, and showing true humility? 

How can we measure up to these "things that are excellent and profitable for everyone" (3:8)? The beautiful, short letter of Paul to his friend Titus tells us. "When the kindness and love of our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of the righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy" (vs. 4-5). Christ has done it for us! Yes, He wants us to strive after these things with all our hearts. But God knows we will fail, so He has given in our place the perfect record of Jesus - the truly good One, the Prince of Peace, the perfectly obedient and humble One.

Insight: God expects us to do good and promises us that we can do all things through the strength he gives 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 urgent need of Prayer and financial partners,

If you would like to become a prayer partner and or 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

  

+DEV+ The Humility Of Christ

Date: April 18, 2016 at 3:12 AM

Topic: +DEV+  The Humility Of Christ

The Humility Of Christ

"Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves." Philippians 2:3

Scripture Focus: Philippians 2:1-11

Daily we are reminded that we live in a world that is pouring out unrestrained evil. Often we wonder how these things could really be happening. Knowing the Bible, we shouldn't be surprised. How then should we live? 

We know our God calms the storms of life. When we look to Jesus, we find clues in today's text of what's most important. Paul invites us to imitate the humility of Christ. He tells us to choose and cultivate humility in our relationships with one another, knowing that God Himself is undergirding our efforts. As Jesus would do, our focus is upon others, not our own selfish purposes. Because Jesus chose to empty Himself, laying down His reputation and rights, humbling Himself all for us, we can do the same. He told us that "all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another" (John 13:35). 

While the evil in this world rages on, we can bring love to many who are hurting, love that does not seek anything for ourselves. Let your love be for the sake of the Gospel and 

His glory.

Insight: Seek to be one after God's own heart, showing love to others even when there seems to be nothing in it for you.

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 urgent need of Prayer and financial partners,

If you would like to become a prayer partner and or 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

  

+DEV+ Humility Toward One Another

Date: April 14, 2016 at 10:03 PM

Topic: +DEV+  Humility Toward One Another

Humility Toward One Another

"All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another...Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time." 1 Peter 5:5-6

Scripture Focus: 1 Peter 5:1-10

Peter writes to the early church when they felt like exiles and strangers on earth. They were dealing with opposition and severe persecution, something most of us have never known. He encourages his readers to live faithfully for Christ and make Him real in their hearts, living selflessly and serving humbly. 

While Peter begins by instructing leaders to shepherd and care for others, he also says "all" are "to clothe" themselves with humility in all circumstances. The word was used to illustrate a slave who wore an apron to keep his clothes underneath clean while serving. Perhaps Peter was also recalling that last meal in the Upper Room when Jesus girded Himself with a towel and washed the disciples' feet (John 13:4-17). 

How completely humbling to know that the God we serve has stooped down to this earth to serve us in the dirtiness and messiness of life. When we grasp the depth of Christ's love for us, there is nothing we'd rather do than clothe ourselves in Him and serve those He has brought to us.

Insight: Humility is the working virtue which makes all other virtues what they should be in the christian life.

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 urgent need of Prayer and financial partners,

If you would like to become a prayer partner and or 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

  

+DEV+ Humble Yourselves

Date: April 13, 2016 at 11:10 PM

Topic: +DEV+  Humble Yourselves

Humble Yourselves

"Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up." James 4:10

Scripture Focus: James 4:1-10

Reflecting upon years of ministry at home and abroad, I'm painfully reminded of the times of conflict within the family of God. If only those hours of clashing could have been put into productive ministry! James speaks pointedly to our behavior. He reminds us as Christians that when we are ruled by our desires and practice improper methods to get what we want, we shatter relationships within God's family and bring disgrace to the name of Jesus. 

In Vs. 4 uses strong metaphorical descriptions of spiritual unfaithfulness. James urges us to turn away from our friendship with the world and instead submit, draw near, and humble ourselves. Submitting to God (vs. 7) means lining ourselves up under Him. Drawing near to God (vs. 8) is pursuing an intimate love relationship with Him. Humbling ourselves before the Lord (vs. 10) means making ourselves low so that Christ is lifted up. 

Could you trade your friendship with the world and humbly kneel before the One who loves you and gave His life for you? Trust Jesus to show you how.

Insight: By God's grace we must strive to live wholeheartedly today, so that we can serve Him faithfully tomorrow

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 urgent need of Prayer and financial partners,

If you would like to become a prayer partner and or 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

  

+DEV+ How Many Really Pray?

Date: April 13, 2016 at 2:20 AM

Topic: +DEV+  How Many Really Pray?

How Many Really Pray?

"Now when Daniel learned that the decree had been published... Three times a day he got down on his knees and prayed, giving thanks to his God, just as he had done before." Daniel 6:10

Scripture Focus: Daniel 6:1-23

A recent news headline read, "America's Religious Past Fades in a Secular Age." You hardly need to read the actual article to know what it is about. I was saddened to learn that only one in five Americans today has any religious affiliation at all. That is a far cry from how our country first began. 

But if you read through the Book of Daniel, you'll be struck by Daniel's commitment to prayer regardless of his circumstances in Babylonian captivity. We recall how evil men plotted to get King Darius to create an edict against any prayers offered to anyone other than him. Daniel learned of this, yet went home and humbly got down on his knees for his regular habit in prayer, "just as he had done before." Clearly, it was a way of life for him, a pattern he practiced on a regular basis. Even with the uncertainty of what it might cost him, Daniel honored God in prayer. 

Regardless of economic conditions and the world's issues, let's not let our prayer life "fade in this secular age." The Lord hears our prayers!

Insight: God is with us. As we commune with him through prayer, we grow more willing to respond to His prompting in our lives.

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 urgent need of Prayer and financial partners,

If you would like to become a prayer partner and or 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

  

Date: April 13, 2016 at 2:20 AM
Topic: +DEV+  How Many Really Pray?

How Many Really Pray?

"Now when Daniel learned that the decree had been published... Three times a day he got down on his knees and prayed, giving thanks to his God, just as he had done before." Daniel 6:10

Scripture Focus: Daniel 6:1-23

A recent news headline read, "America's Religious Past Fades in a Secular Age." You hardly need to read the actual article to know what it is about. I was saddened to learn that only one in five Americans today has any religious affiliation at all. That is a far cry from how our country first began.

But if you read through the Book of Daniel, you'll be struck by Daniel's commitment to prayer regardless of his circumstances in Babylonian captivity. We recall how evil men plotted to get King Darius to create an edict against any prayers offered to anyone other than him. Daniel learned of this, yet went home and humbly got down on his knees for his regular habit in prayer, "just as he had done before." Clearly, it was a way of life for him, a pattern he practiced on a regular basis. Even with the uncertainty of what it might cost him, Daniel honored God in prayer.

Regardless of economic conditions and the world's issues, let's not let our prayer life "fade in this secular age." The Lord hears our prayers!

Insight: God is with us. As we commune with him through prayer, we grow more willing to respond to His prompting in our lives.

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 urgent need of Prayer and financial partners,
If you would like to become a prayer partner and or 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

+DEV+ Moses, A Humble Man

Date: April 12, 2016 at 12:48 AM

Topic: +DEV+  Moses, A Humble Man

Moses, A Humble Man

"Now Moses was a very humble man, more humble than anyone else on the face of the earth." Numbers 12:3

Scripture Focus: Numbers 12:1-8

If people knew I was the most humble man on the face of the earth, I think I'd grow quite proud! Imagine being Moses, the authoritative mediator and spokesman for God... the most humble man on the earth. 

While God had revealed Himself to other prophets through dreams and visions, only Moses was permitted direct access to God. Sadly, his humility and friendship with God led siblings, Aaron and Miriam, to jealousy. Moses certainly was not perfect either, but Moses' humility and leadership point us ahead to our perfectly humble and strong Savior, Jesus. 

Each of us as a child of God - as His special friends - is privileged to be His light to others. We can progressively live out our faith, shining "like stars in the universe as you hold out the word of life" (Philippians 2:15-16). 

We read in Numbers 11:16-17 that Moses asked God for help with his leadership responsibility. Moses humbly realized he was unable to do everything alone. But God carried Moses through. In the work of Jesus Christ, He has done the same for you!

Insight: The christian community is the salt of the earth, the light of the world, and God's instrument for peace.

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 urgent need of Prayer and financial partners,

If you would like to become a prayer partner and or 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

  

+DEV+ We Can Always Trust God

Date: April 11, 2016 at 2:32 AM

Topic: +DEV+  We Can Always Trust God

We Can Always Trust God

"Remember how the Lord your God led you all the way in the desert these forty years, to humble you and to test you in order to know what was in your heart..." Deuteronomy 8:2

Scripture Focus: Deuteronomy 8:1-9

As believers in Jesus, we must never forget the loving, redemptive acts of God to us, many of which have included times of challenge and discipline, reminding us to stay focused upon Him. Along with cherishing memories of joy and security from less trying times, we learn to value the hardships, too. Moses reminded the people of God's faithfulness over 40 years of wandering in the wilderness...not an easy road to travel! But God's miraculous provision was always there, both humbling and testing the obedience of His children. 

Charles Haddon Spurgeon said, "When we cannot trace God's hand, we can always trust God's heart." Each of us has wilderness experiences. Sometimes they cause us to turn desperately and humbly to Him; other times we turn away from Him. What we need to know is "what was in your heart." Solomon summarizes it: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight" (Proverbs 3:5-6).

Insight: Your concept of God is to your life what a foundation is to a house.

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 urgent need of Prayer and financial partners,

If you would like to become a prayer partner and or 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

  

+DEV+ Love Justice, Mercy, Be humble

Date: April 8, 2016 at 1:32 AM

Topic: +DEV+  Love Justice, Mercy, Be humble

Love Justice, Mercy, Be humble

"He has showed you, O man, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God." Micah 6:8

Scripture Focus: Micah 6:1-8

It's been some years since the Scripture song from this verse made its way through worship services, but the truth from it is timeless. The book of Micah is a prophecy about the Lord, the One who has no rivals in pardoning sin and who has compassion on sinners. 

It's interesting that the prophet Micah, whose name means "He Who is Like God,” was recording the inspired words of God which would go on to show God's people how they would be "like God.” It would not be through their dutiful actions and sacrifices. What God wanted was a sincere commitment of the heart that would lead to right and ethical behavior. 

So the three priorities Micah highlights are for the nation then and for us today. The Lord still seeks after our hearts, wanting that more than our list of good deeds. 

First, we are to let justice - rooted in God's character - cover all we do. 

Second, we are to love mercy and kindness, embedding it deep within our own hearts. 

Third, we are to live a life of humility, in submission to God.

Insight: Our lives must reflect God's justice, extend His love, and humbly live out our relationship with 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 urgent need of Prayer and financial partners,

If you would like to become a prayer partner and or 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