+DEV+ Thy Will Be Done

Date: January 30, 2016 at 11:34 PM

Topic: +DEV+  Thy Will Be Done

Thy Will Be Done

“He went away a second time and prayed, My Father, if it is not possible for this cup to be taken away unless I drink it, may your will be done." Matthew 26:42

Scripture Focus: Philippians 1:29; Hebrews 11

Many false teachers preach that God wants us all to be rich, healthy, and powerful. They say that if you lack these, you don't have sufficient faith. Whether we are materially and physically well-off or not, the truth is that God has called His people to be conformed to the image of His Son. Jesus came in weakness and poverty, suffering every day of His earthly life and finally going to His death on a cross. Hardly the stuff of the "health and wealth" gospel! 

Jesus taught us to pray, "Thy will be done" (Matthew 6:10). God's will for His children is that they know Christ, enduring (even with joy) the suffering that will come with it. Paul says in Romans 8:18 "...that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us." That is the secret. It's Paul's "long view." We are citizens of a better country - a heavenly one (Hebrews 11:16). Our hope is in Jesus and in the new earth He is preparing for us. Our joy is in Christ, not in the fickle circumstances of this world.

Insight: God's will for you in Jesus is that you be joyful always, pray continually, and give thanks for every circumstance. (see 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)

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+ God Knows You

Date: January 29, 2016 at 9:54 PM

Topic: +DEV+  God Knows You

God Knows You

"Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God. Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered." LUKE 12:6-7A

Scripture Focus: Psalm 121:3-4; Genesis 28:15

Jesus often argued from the lesser to the greater in making a point. His words above mean that since God has His eye on every sparrow and every hair of your head is counted by Him, how much more will He be in charge of every little detail of your life? Not one thing can happen to you without your heavenly Father's approval. This is difficult for us to understand and believe because we are sinful, finite creatures who cannot fully comprehend the infinite. 

Psalm 147:4-5 declares, "[God] determines the number of the stars and calls them each by name. Great is our Lord and mighty in power; his understanding has no limit." There are countless-billions of stars in the universe, and yet God has a name for each one of them. God's universe has no limit because He has no limit! This is the wonderful thing about the Gospel - that this infinite God came to earth as a man and went to the Cross for you. He knows you intimately and still loves you perfectly. What could be better than that? Could we know a greater comfort?

Insight: Sometimes we may feel estranged from God - that we are separated from Him. but He is there. Trust in His gracious, infinite power.

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 Yoke Of Slavery

Date: January 29, 2016 at 12:24 AM

Topic: +DEV+  The Yoke Of Slavery

The Yoke Of Slavery

"It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery." Galatians 5:1

Scripture Focus: John 8:32-36; Psalm 102:18-22

In Christ, we are completely set free from the debt, guilt, and slavery of sin. The debt of our sin was far beyond our ability to repay. The guilt of our sin could never be worked off. Sin enslaves because, left to ourselves, we actually love sin. Only in Christ is the debt paid, the guilt set aside, and the slave released from sin's bondage. Sin once was our master, but we've received a new Master who has set us free. 

Another "yoke of slavery" exists from which Christ has freed us. That yoke is slavery to the law of sin and death (Romans 8:2). The Pharisees and teachers of the law lowered the standards of God's holy law. They taught that salvation was a matter of keeping their man-made rules. Even today people are burdened under the weight of rules they feel they must keep. But for God's people, God's law becomes the foundation of our freedom. The Psalmist sings, "Oh, how I love your law! I meditate on it all day long" (Psalm 119:97). God's law has become our comfort and friend, not our master.

Insight: Isn't it interesting that unbelievers see christianity as slavery, and sin as freedom? Exactly the opposite is true.

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+ Redeemed By The Blood

Date: January 28, 2016 at 12:53 AM

Topic: +DEV+  Redeemed By The Blood

Redeemed By The Blood

"For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed...

but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect." 1 Peter 1:18-19

Scripture Focus: Ephesians 2:11-13; Hebrews 9:11-28

The Lord's Supper is the Gospel pictured in bread and wine. Christ's human body is remembered in the bread; His precious blood in the wine. We take communion in fellowship with other believers. The communal use of these tangible elements reminds us that we are part of an eternal organization for which Christ shed His blood. We are those who have been called out of enmity into fellowship with the living God. And this is all due to the shed blood of Jesus Christ. 

The ancient blood of bulls and goats could never take away sin. Those Old Testament sacrifices merely pointed to the One who could. "In fact, the law requires that nearly everything be cleansed with blood, and without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness...so Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many; and he will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for him" (Hebrews 9:22, 28). Jesus is the Lamb slain for you and me from before the creation of the world (Revelation 13:8).

Insight: Christ's blood actually saves you and me! What comfort in knowing that our salvation has been accomplished by his precious blood alone.

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+ He Paid My Infinite Debt

Date: January 27, 2016 at 12:08 AM

Topic: +DEV+  He Paid My Infinite Debt

He Paid My Infinite Debt

"Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all men, because all sinned..." Romans 5:12

Scripture Focus: Romans 5:6-10; 3:10-18

A Catechism's answer to a Question states, "Sin is any want of conformity unto, or transgression of, the law of God." To clarify that, here is an alternative definition: "Sin is an infinite, catastrophic failure to live and act according to God's holy character, the result of which is warfare against the Creator and disharmony in human relationships, and which merits death - the infinite, eternal justice and wrath of almighty God." Did you know that is what sin really is? 

Sin is infinite because it offends an infinite God. It's catastrophic because human science will never come up with a cure. Sin merits eternal death - separation from the love and mercy of God - because it distorts and denies God's image in us. It is not only negative - doing what we shouldn't do. It is also positive - not doing what we should do. But God has provided an answer! Our Lord Jesus lived the life we should have lived and died the death we should have died, taking our sin upon Himself. What a Savior!

Insight: If sins are merely mistakes, we don't need much of a Savior. But since sin is infinitely horrible, we need an infinite Savior.

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+ Jesus My Savior

Date: January 25, 2016 at 10:32 PM

Topic: +DEV+  Jesus My Savior

Jesus My Savior

"For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory." Colossians 3:3-4

Scripture Focus: Luke 2:8-14; 1 John 4:13-16

One of my favorite hymns is "Were You There?" It asks, "Were you there when they crucified my Lord?" If you have come to Jesus Christ in faith, wanting to obey His Word and seeking to glorify Him, you were there. You weren't there physically, but you were crucified with Him vicariously. As Paul says in Galatians 2:20, "I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me." Christ died specifically for His Church (those who receive Jesus as Savior).. 

Christ died for the sins of everyone without exception! While some think His sacrifice is sufficient,  that He only made it possible for some to be saved. But God is absolutely sovereign, rescuing those who call upon His name, Some think that If God chose them they cannot resist His salvation while those whom He did not call can never be saved no matter if they wanted to. this is called predestination and is heresy. For the Bible says “FOR WHO SO EVER… will be saved” Then we have the belief that once you are saved you can do anything evil and remain saved… (Once saved-Always saved) another heresy. The devil will alway try to frustrate the will of God and fail.

Insight: Read Jesus' high priestly prayer of John 17. ask yourself, "Is it possible that Jesus' prayer could be frustrated?" how much less his atoning work!

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+ Perfect, Unconditional, Unending Love

Date: January 22, 2016 at 12:36 AM

Topic: +DEV+  Perfect, Unconditional, Unending Love

Perfect, Unconditional, Unending Love

"I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live... I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me." Galatians 2:20

Scripture Focus: Matthew 6:25-34; 2 Corinthians 9:8-11

Sometimes we Christians cheat ourselves of the great comfort that could be ours. We fail to understand God's providential care for us. Romans 8:28 says, "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." We've memorized that verse, but do we believe it? We trust God for eternal life, but not for every day. I call it "Stop Light Theology." We believe God sends green lights, but can't bring ourselves to attribute the red lights to Him as well. 

Our God loves us with a perfect, unconditional, unending love. And He is in control of every event in our lives, including the red stop lights. When we face trouble and sickness - things that make us hit the brakes - can we still trust Him? Yes! What great comfort! I've lived beyond my three-score and ten years. As I look back, I can see how God worked for good in my heartbreaks as well as my joys. I've learned, like Paul, that whatever comes my way, I will be content in it (Philippians 4:11).

Insight: Systematic theology - the study of God's attributes - is a great comfort. We find a God of love who is all-powerful and just and absolutely sovereign.

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+ Jesus Has Destroyed Death

Date: January 20, 2016 at 11:30 PM

Topic: +DEV+  Jesus Has Destroyed Death

Jesus Has Destroyed Death

"Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil..." Psalm 23:4

Scripture Focus: Romans 8:1-4; 6:1-14

For the unbeliever, the fear of death can overshadow every other fear in life. The writer of Hebrews says that the fear of death enslaves (Heb. 2:15). However, we humans have a great ability to deceive ourselves. We rationalize and refuse to speak about death. People may even mock death, but most often they will try to suppress its truth. Unless you're a mortician or have attended an open-casket funeral, you may not have ever seen an actual dead body. Though death seems to be depicted more frequently on movie screens (desensitizing even young ones to its sting), the reality of death and the separation of the soul from the body is largely ignored. 

Jesus came to release us from our fear of death. We all walk through the valley of its shadow daily. By His death, Jesus has destroyed death forever. The last enemy (1 Cor. 15:26) will soon be no more. For the Christian, the grip of death's slavery has been loosed. We are set free by the blood of our precious Savior, our "only comfort in life and in death."

Insight: Thank you, Lord, for the new life given freely to us by faith alone in Christ. He has destroyed forever the last enemy-death.

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+ For They Will Be Comforted

Date: January 20, 2016 at 2:01 AM

Topic: +DEV+  For They Will Be Comforted

For They Will Be Comforted

"Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted." Matthew 5:4

Scripture Focus: Matthew 5:4; Psalm 126:6

The unbeliever looks at these words of Jesus in the Beatitudes and scoffs. "Blessedness in mourning? Ridiculous!" But these words speak volumes of comfort to you and me and everyone who trusts Jesus alone for eternal life. The Beatitudes are descriptions of what is true of Christians and points to what is also true of Jesus. Even though we mourn now, we are more than comforted in Christ, both now and in eternity. 

The world seeks comfort in created things: its idols of money, sex, power, education, fame, beauty, talent, etc. In fact, mourning seems to be avoided at all costs. Blessedness - happiness - supposedly comes in the accumulation of things. 

But the world's comfort is fleeting. It is here today and gone tomorrow, while the comfort of Christ is forever. The God who flung the stars into space and who calls them each by name loves you and me with a perfect, unfailing love - His blessed. Only in Christ can true comfort be found. Only in Him is the peace that passes all understanding (Philippians 4:7).

Insight: Christians mourn over our own sin and the sin of the world. But the hope behind our mourning is more certain than tomorrow's sunrise.

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+ Jesus Christ Is Lord

Date: January 18, 2016 at 11:06 PM

Topic: +DEV+  Jesus Christ Is Lord

Jesus Christ Is Lord

"The kingdom of heaven is like yeast that a woman took and mixed into a large amount of flour until it worked all through the dough." Matthew 13:33

Scripture Focus: Matthew 13:31-33

With more than twenty major religions around the world, how can any single religion claim to be the exclusive path to heaven? When more than one religion claims to be the only way to God, how do we know which is right? 

There is one proof that separates Christianity from all other religions. It is identified by looking at the graves of their founders. Although the grave of every other founder still holds their bones, Jesus Christ left behind an empty tomb. Christ's resurrection confirms His claim that He is the only way to God. No one else offers such proof. 

For centuries, the Israelites waited for their Messiah. When Christ came, they didn't recognize Him for who He is. But today, Jewish and Gentile believers are united in His death and resurrection, like the leaven that worked its way all through the dough. All who come to Him find refuge and joy, like the birds that nested in the mustard tree. And one day, every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord of all.

Insight: Have you wondered about Jesus Christ's claim to be the only way to the Father? Rest in the assurance of the empty tomb!

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 Physical & Spiritual

Date: January 15, 2016 at 10:41 PM

Topic: +DEV+  The Physical & Spiritual

The Physical & Spiritual

"When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you? The King will reply, I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me." Matthew 25:39-40

Scripture Focus: Matthew 25:31-46

A friend once told me to Preach the Word at all times; use words if necessary.” This leads to some challenging questions. Should we meet physical needs and trust others will understand our motives? Or should we share the message of salvation with our words and leave the social work to charity groups? 

Many cite this parable to encourage us to focus on physical needs. Others point to the apostle Paul's definition of the Gospel as the truth that Christ died for our sins, was buried and then raised from the dead on the third day (1 Corinthians 15:1-4). This message requires words. So which is it? 

A man dying of starvation will not care what Jesus can do for his spirit if his body is in desperate need. A mother may not be concerned about Jesus' death on the cross 2,000 years ago if her family doesn't have shelter today. But if we provide for the physical without addressing the spiritual, then we have cared for temporary needs and neglected eternal ones. Words or deeds? Jesus did both. And we should, too.

Insight: How are you participating in sharing the Gospel? Get involved by using your words and deeds to share the message of salvation.

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: January 15, 2016 at 10:41 PM

Topic: +DEV+  The Physical & Spiritual

The Physical & Spiritual

"When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you? The King will reply, I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me." Matthew 25:39-40

Scripture Focus: Matthew 25:31-46

A friend once told me to Preach the Word at all times; use words if necessary.” This leads to some challenging questions. Should we meet physical needs and trust others will understand our motives? Or should we share the message of salvation with our words and leave the social work to charity groups? 

Many cite this parable to encourage us to focus on physical needs. Others point to the apostle Paul's definition of the Gospel as the truth that Christ died for our sins, was buried and then raised from the dead on the third day (1 Corinthians 15:1-4). This message requires words. So which is it? 

A man dying of starvation will not care what Jesus can do for his spirit if his body is in desperate need. A mother may not be concerned about Jesus' death on the cross 2,000 years ago if her family doesn't have shelter today. But if we provide for the physical without addressing the spiritual, then we have cared for temporary needs and neglected eternal ones. Words or deeds? Jesus did both. And we should, too.

Insight: How are you participating in sharing the Gospel? Get involved by using your words and deeds to share the message of salvation.

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+ Faithfulness

Date: January 14, 2016 at 8:08 PM

Topic: +DEV+  Faithfulness

Faithfulness

"For everyone who has will be given more, and he will have an abundance. Whoever does not have, even what he has will be taken from him." Matthew 25:29

Scripture Focus: Matthew 25:14-30

I'm not good enough. That's how I feel sometimes when I compare myself to other writers. Some have much more talent than I do. Others are gifted in writing different genres, such as fiction or children's rhyming books. I'm tempted to stop writing since so many are more gifted than I am. Do you do this kind of comparing, too? 

But God does not give us all the same personalities and abilities, or the same resources and talents. Still, He expects us to use what He does give. We can compare ourselves to others and hide because we might not measure up to other, more talented Christians. Or we can be faithful in the way God has equipped us - with much or little - for His glory. 

It's not the amount of gifts we're given that is important. It's our faithfulness in how we use them that pleases God's heart. We may think there is no harm in "burying" our talents instead of using them for Christ's kingdom. But Jesus labeled such behavior wicked, lazy, and worthless. Good and faithful or wicked and worthless. It's our choice.

Insight: Are you ashamed of the quantity or quality of your gifts? Be faithful in using whatever God has given you to glorify 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+ Watch For The Lord's Return

Date: January 14, 2016 at 12:33 AM

Topic: +DEV+  Watch For The Lord's Return

Watch For The Lord's Return

"Now learn this... from the fig tree: As soon as its twigs get tender and its leaves come out, you know that summer is near. Even so, when you see all these things, you know that it is near." Matthew 24:32-33

Scripture Focus: Matthew 24:30-35

Do you ever get discouraged at the condition of our society? Does it appear that immorality and corruption are the rule, while morality and justice are the exception? 

We live in a troubled world... a world where both the people and the natural creation yearn for relief from the consequences of sin and the sentence of death. But, just as in the time of Noah, our culture laughs in the face of coming judgment. The concept of a righteous king who will return to judge the earth is mocked as a religious fairy tale. Yet, as the flood came in Noah's time, despite the people's denial, so Jesus Christ will come again in power and glory. 

Some people have tried to predict the day of Christ's return. But the Bible warns us against attempting to guess the exact date. Still, while we can't know the precise time, we can watch for the signs described in Matthew 24 and 25. Most important of all, we can receive the salvation Jesus offers. Then, no matter when it happens, we will certainly be ready for His return.

Insight: Are you ready for the Lord's return? Be watchful as you wait for Christ to come for his people.

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+ God Is Righteous

Date: January 12, 2016 at 8:15 PM

Topic: +DEV+  God Is Righteous

God Is Righteous

"What then will the owner of the vineyard do? He will come and kill those tenants and give the vineyard to others. Haven't you read this scripture: The stone the builders rejected has become the capstone...?" Mark 12:9-10

Scripture Focus: Mark 12:1-12

Someone once asked me, "If God is a God of love, why would anyone have to worry about going to hell?" or “How can a Loving God Throw anyone into hell”? these are questions that bothers many people. They believe a loving God would not condemn anyone to eternal judgment. 

The religious leaders understood that Jesus spoke about them in the parable of the tenants. The servants who were killed represented the Old Testament prophets whom God had sent to call His people back to Him. The description of the son was a prophecy that the religious leaders would soon kill Jesus. 

God is loving and merciful. But He is also perfectly just and holy. He is kind, but He is also righteous. We cannot limit God to any single one of His attributes. God's love sent Jesus to die for us, to pay the just penalty for our sins. But His justice must judge any sin not paid for at the cross. For those who receive Christ, the benefits are eternal. And for those who reject the Son of God, the consequences are also eternal. God doesn't condemn anyone to hell. We condemn ourselves.

Insight: Have you received the gift of salvation offered by the Son? The cost of rejecting Him is severe.

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+ Persevering In Prayer

Date: January 12, 2016 at 12:00 AM

Topic: +DEV+  Persevering In Prayer

Persevering In Prayer

"Will not God bring about justice for his chosen ones...? ...He will see that they get justice, and quickly. However, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on the earth?" Luke 18:7-8

Scripture Focus: Luke 18:1-8

What trial are you struggling with today? Unemployment? A broken marriage? A wayward child? Anxiety? Do you ever wonder if God sees what you're going through? 

Jesus used this story of a widow and a judge to show the importance of persevering in prayer. Despite his reluctance, the judge provided justice because she didn't give up. Jesus did not tell this story to imply God is unjust. But sometimes, from our finite perspective, it appears as if He is. When we pray for years for the salvation of a loved one, or plead for a job, or ask for healing when the prognosis is terminal, why doesn't God intervene? 

Faith in God also means faith in His timing. We may trudge along through the years, not understanding why God allows these trials. But our heavenly Father knows more about the situation than we do. He knows how He will use it to make us more like His Son, or how He will use it to draw others to Him. And no matter what happens here on earth, someday Christ will return so that all will be made right.

Insight: What trial has you doubting God's justice and compassion today? Have faith in God and trust His timing.

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+ An Eternal Perspective

Date: January 10, 2016 at 11:45 PM

Topic: +DEV+  An Eternal Perspective

An Eternal Perspective

"But Abraham replied, Son, remember that in your lifetime you received your good things, while Lazarus received bad things, but now he is comforted here and you are in agony." Luke 16:25

Scripture Focus: Luke 16:19-31

"The best is yet to come" vs. "You can have the best life right now." Two very different perspectives that govern the way we think, speak, and live. Which is right? Is one more appealing than the other to you? 

Followers of Christ know our life here is temporary. This world is not our permanent home. Regardless of the country we were born in, as believers in Jesus, our citizenship is in heaven, not earth. Yet it's easy to allow the culture to influence our thinking. We are bombarded with messages that exhort us to make this life our best life. 

But Jesus did not die to make our brief time on earth the best we will ever experience. He died to restore our broken relationship with our heavenly Father. He died so we may live with Him in unbroken fellowship for all eternity. Compared to our eternal home, this life is nothing more than a shabby bus station. No matter how hard we try, it will never be better than what Christ has promised us. Don't be fooled. The good life is yet to come. We have His promise!

Insight: Do you have an eternal perspective? Remember Christ died for you and He has promised that the best really is yet to come!

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+ What Do Our Hearts Value

Date: January 8, 2016 at 2:59 AM

Topic: +DEV+  What Do Our Hearts Value

What Do Our Hearts Value

"The master commended the dishonest manager because he had acted shrewdly. For the people of this world are more shrewd in dealing with their own kind than are the people of the light." Luke 16:8

Scripture Focus: Luke 16:1-13

Role models can be helpful in both positive and negative ways. We want to imitate some people, while others stand as stark warnings. So why would Jesus tell us to take a lesson from a thief? 

The manager in this story was in a bind. About to be unemployed and with no training for other work, he needed to act fast. Rather than confess his crimes, he devised a plan. Like the thief, we often refuse to admit our sins or regret getting caught, without repenting of the behavior. 

The master in this story commended the manager for his shrewdness, though he still intended to fire him. But Jesus was not commending dishonesty. Instead, He was pointing out three lessons for us. First, the manager prepared for his future, and we are to use our resources for our eternal future. Second, how we handle our resources is an expression of our values. Third, we have a choice: master our resources or allow them to master us. 

Jesus' teachings about a thief expose what our hearts truly value. May we value Christ above all!

Insight: Are you wisely investing to prepare for the future? Those who will spend eternity with Christ should be faithful and wise managers now.

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+ Two Sons

Date: January 6, 2016 at 11:40 PM

Topic: +DEV+  Two Sons

Two Sons

"The father said, you are always with me, and everything I have is yours. But we had to celebrate and be glad, because this brother of yours was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found." Luke 15:32

Scripture Focus: Luke 15:11-32

Two sons. One is dutiful, obedient, and responsible. The other is prodigal, wasting money on sinful living and sinful people. Which son needed forgiveness? 

Some say the older son was treated unfairly in this parable. After all, it was the prodigal who demanded his inheritance while his father was still alive. In today's culture, it was as if he said, "I wish you were dead already!" Then this disrespectful young man threw away the money on a sinful lifestyle. But back home, his dependable older brother worked hard, doing everything right...or so he thought. 

Jesus was making a point to the religious leaders. None of us does it all right, not even the older son in this story. Many of us are a lot like him. Among his failings was a lack of love for his younger brother, a judgmental attitude, and a legalistic outlook with no room for grace and no desire to forgive. Blinded by pride, he could not see that he was no better than his brother and needed as much forgiveness, if not more. 

Of the two, which son are you?

Insight: Self-righteousness is no better than prodigal living in God's sight. Recognize your need for God's forgiveness in Christ...then share it with someone today.

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+ Heaven Celebrates

Date: January 6, 2016 at 12:11 AM

Topic: +DEV+  Heaven Celebrates

Heaven Celebrates

"I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent." Luke 15:7

Scripture Focus: Luke 15:4-10

What brings you joy? Your family? A job promotion? Losing ten pounds? What do you think brings God joy? 

The parables of the lost sheep and the lost coin show us clearly how to bring joy to the heart of God - and everyone has the ability to do it. It's as simple as repenting from sin. Repentance involves a change in our perspective which leads to a change in our behavior. When we view sin as seriously as God views it, we realize what an affront it is to His holiness and how destructive it is to us. It's why He sent Jesus. Our repentance not only benefits us; it brings God joy. 

But the parable of the lost sheep tells us something else about God's heart. It tells us what does not bring Him joy. Apart from Christ, any righteousness we think we have is nothing better than filthy rags. When we go through life thinking we do not need to repent, God is unimpressed. 

We bring joy to our Father when we turn to Christ. And because we are the joy set before Him as He endured the cross, He delights in us.

Insight: Have you brought joy to God's heart? When you turn from sin and turn to Christ, heaven celebrates!

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+ What Does Discipleship Mean

Date: January 5, 2016 at 12:10 AM

Topic: +DEV+  What Does Discipleship Mean

What Does Discipleship Mean

"Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Will he not first sit down and estimate the cost... In the same way, any of you who does not give up everything he has cannot be my disciple."

Luke 14:28, 33

Scripture Focus: Luke 14:25-33

Have you ever signed up for a task, only to find out after you joined that you could not fulfill your commitment? 

Jesus set a high standard for discipleship. He wanted people to be sure of what they were doing before they claimed to be His followers. He knew discipleship could lead to persecution and death. His cross would become their cross. 

Today, in some countries, people risk all that is important to them when they identify themselves as Christians. They may lose their homes, families, jobs, even their lives. Christians in free countries have not yet experienced such severe suffering for the sake of Christ. While we may say this with relief, perhaps it is not such a good thing. Since for the most part we have not been required to count the cost of discipleship, we may view it lightly. But Jesus said we cannot be His disciples if we are not prepared to give up everything. Just because we have not yet been required to make such sacrifices does not mean that time will not come. Have we counted the cost?

Insight: What does discipleship mean to you? Be willing to give up everything for Christ because He has given you everything you need!

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