01-29-11 (Day 5) Luke 6:40 define

Day 5

Luke 6:40

The Student is not above the Teacher, but everyone who is fully trained will be like their teacher.

Student

-a person formally engaged in learning, esp. one enrolled in a school or college; pupil: a student at Yale.

-any person who studies, investigates, or examines thoughtfully: a student of human nature.

Above

higher in rank, authority, or power

superior in rank, authority, or standing to

fully

entirely or wholly

trained

to develop or form the habits, thoughts, or behavior of (achild or other person) by discipline and instruction to develop or form the habits, thoughts, or behavior of (achild or other person) by discipline and instruction like of the same form, appearance, kind, character, amount, etc.:I cannot remember a like instance.

Bearing resemblance.

The person who investigates, or examines thoughtfully the instructions of their teacher is not higher or superior in rank, authority, power, or standing than their teacher, but everyone who is entirely or wholly trained to develop or form the habits, thoughts, or behavior of their teacher by discipline and instruction will bear the same form, kind, and character of their teacher.

01-28-11 (Day 4) 1 Thessalonians 1:2-10

Day 4

The passage I read was 1 Thessalonians 1:2-10

You can find that passage here: 

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Thessalonians%201:2-10&version=NKJV

My summary of the passage is this:

This is the start of a letter to the Thessalonian Christians.  At this point in the letter Paul is praising them for a job well done.  He tells them that they have done so good at sticking to the Word of God that others are talking good things about them all over the place and that ward has even gotten back to Paul.  He pats them on the back metaphorically speaking telling them that they took the good with the bad and the bad with the good and they stayed joyous through it all.  He tells them how they have become an example of Christianity to even surrounding cities and that others even speak of how they have turned away from evil at once and served God.  Paul let’s them know that what they’ve done hasn’t gone unnoticed but that everyone that sees them can tell they are living in such a way as to be prepared for the return of Jesus Christ their risen Lord.

Just a reminder, this is just my attempt to summarize and simplify the passage for the general idea.  For a passage study, I encourage everyone to please read the actual passage for yourself and in this case, may I suggest that you also read the message version in addition to the link above to the new king james version as the two versions have given me a greater understanding often when used together.

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Thessalonians%201:2-10&version=MSG

As I reflect:

What a compliment of being a good example that one such as Paul would write you a letter letting you know what a good job you’ve done.  As I read this, I couldn’t help but think of Luke 19 and Matthew 25 when the master (representing Jesus) in a parable tells his servant (representing us) “well done, good and faithful servant”.  That story was told as a lesson in using what the Lord has given you to benefit the kingdom and serve the Lord and that we are not to bury or squander the gifts the Lord has given us.  We are to be good stewards of all that He provides us to care for.  Here we see some servants of just that kind.  Good stewards that were given the Word and immediately took hold of it following after Jesus.  They turned away from their evil ways (repented if you will) and lived awaiting the return of the Lord.  Not only that, but they told others also.  They shared the Gospel with others.  I don’t see this as often in real life, though it’s all over facebook. Lol.  I guess what I’m saying is that we…I, rather, need to be a good steward of my home, my family, my gifts, the Gospel as I share with those that are in need.  I am afflicted and as the Thessalonian Christians set this wonderful example for us, so shall I (affliction or not)  have the joy of the Holy Spirit and when others see me they should see the example that I then set for them to also have joy despite affliction.  No one should need to spread news of my walk and what has progressed.  Everyone should be able to see by my actions where my faith is at. I must live in such a way that shows that I did not only receive the Gospel in word on paper, but that I also received the Gospel in power and in the Holy Spirit and I am assured of it’s truth because I have studied it’s history and I believe and I know that it is the true and undefiled Word of God spoken to me and in me and that I am to speak to others this very Word so that they too may continue spreading this great Word that salvation is available to everyone; to the Jew and the gentile; that if you will repent and confess Jesus as your Lord, then you will be saved.  May all who share this message through what ever means you have been gifted to do so be so blessed to one day here from our Lord, “well done, good and faithful servant.”

My response to the Lord:

Lord, I am excited and energized right now.  This message is one that is very encouraging to my running the race and persevering as I go.  I love to see the examples that you have laid out through history of how you can change a people and turn them around 180 degrees and use them to do your will.  You always seem to chose the lowly also.  And that’s encouraging because the only qualification I have to serve you, is that I am unqualified to serve you.  I can smile knowing that it’s all about your work in and through me and not about what I myself am or am not able to do.  I know that you can and will and do use me and I want to do all that I can to help you do just that.  Have your way with me Father.  Take me where you would have me go and teach me to reach who you would reach through me.  Oh, how I long to one day hear those precious word from you my Lord.  To be told by you that I did a good job.  I dream of this day Father.  Thank you.   For your mercy, grace, faithfulness, thank you.  In Jesus Name.

01-27-11 (Day 3) Psalm 119:25-40

Day 3

George Wishart was the Bishop of Edinburgh in the 17^th and was condemned to death. He would have been executed, but when he was on the scaffold he made use of a custom that allowed the condemned person to choose one psalm to be sung, and he chose Psalm 119. Before two-thirds of the psalm was sung, his pardon arrived and his life was spared.

The passage I read was Psalm 119:25-40

You can find that passage here:

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm%20119:25-40&version=NKJV

My summary of the passage is this:

Ok, so wow!  If you have never studied some of the history involved with and the way that the Psalm was written, please do.  Way more info than I could ever put here.  Very interesting to study and there is plenty very useful information to apply to our lives. 

You may already know that Psalm 119 is the longest Psalm, but did you know it is also the longest chapter in the Bible?  That being said, I will be unable to summarize this passage in context and instead will take it as I see it individually written (as many sections of this chapter were likely written at different points of David’s life making it difficult for one to pin down one single idea or flow from one section to the next).

 This particular passage may have been written following David’s indiscretions in my opinion.  I say this because it seems as though his humble approach and request for revival from the Lord is almost apologetic.  I get the general feeling that David is confessing to God that his own way didn’t work and he is in need of the Lord to teach him, make him understand, strengthen him, remove dishonesty from him, be merciful to him, and in all ways help David to acknowledge and delight in walking in the will of the Lord.  Again, I cannot say for sure this is following David’s adultery and murder sins as it could just be his general desire for the Lord to improve upon him and not a sorrowful request following a falling.  Either way, I definitely encourage you to read this passage for yourself and I’d encourage you more so to take a gander at some of the many studies done of Psalm 119.  So much great information out there on it and so many books written just based on this one Psalm.

As I reflect:

My soul clings to the dust…. What a dramatic depiction.  I am trying to imagine the emotion and thought pattern that one might feel to cause this to be written.  Think about it.  Your soul clinging to the dust.  That’s gotta be like the lowest feeling ever.  You gotta really be down I think.   Revive me according to your word.  Regardless of how bad this person (whom I believe was David but has been argued from multiple stand points over the years) felt, they knew to not only call upon the Lord, but they knew how to do so.  They didn’t call out to God to save them the way that they wanted to be saved.  Instead, they called for revival “according to Your word”.    From here on out, the rest of the passage seems to intently focus on the level of devotion offered by the Psalmist to the Lord and the Lord’s word, statutes, law, testament (as does much of the entire Psalm).

Now, I dare not say that I can compare myself to this Psalmist in his level of devotion to the law, though I wish that I could and hope that perhaps one day I will find myself as devoted for the right reasons.  I see in myself often a lack of this type of full devotion to seek after every word that comes from the Lord’s mouth and fully apply it to my life.  I think personally that a lot of Christians seem to have this same problem.  We have this solid stance on Christ but a wishy washy stance on things we aren’t ready to let go of that hinder us from walking with Him.  Our sins often occur as a direct result of us trying to find ways around some of the uncomfortable stuff we may read or hear about in the Bible.  We may try to make excuses or be sneaky about not fully applying the word to our lives in every crevice, but there is always the need for just that.  David doesn’t weasel his request around the discomfort of change here.  He doesn’t request the Lord to come in and save the day sweeping David off the ground and setting him back on the throne.  Instead His request seems heartfelt as a confession that his own ways and his own plans just don’t work without the Lord.  He makes his request known plainly and it seems to me like he doesn’t count a price in his request.  There is no consideration for what he may lose or go through for the Lord to answer his prayer.  I believe that’s because his motive for the request was right.  He didn’t seek knowledge or wisdom for pride sake, but because he knew as I know that the Word of God can give life and take it away.  The Word of God is given power when we fully apply it to our life.  We can’t be fake in approaching God as we ask for Him to make changes that may be uncomfortable or turn our entire life upside down.  We need to trust in the lord fully in every crevice of our lives and not just here or there.  This may mean sacrifice.  But, I believe as David did, that there is no possession or comfort so great that I would consider keeping it over walking in all that the Lord has for me both in this life and in the next. 

You know what?  I totally get why so many books are written on this Psalm.  I look up and see multiple paragraphs and I’ve only written on the first 2 verses I reflected on so far. Lol.  I think, instead of writing a book myself here, I’m just going to continue my reflections off line.  As for applicability daily…  I’d say I can take from this passage that my life requires devotion to God’s word and will in my life regardless of what comfort zones I may be taken out of.  When someone says to me, “you know it could just be God telling you ______, etc”, I must not take my comfort zones into consideration when pondering the message received.  I encourage you also Christian, allow your comfort zones to become lowest priority when considering the will of God in your life and in the lives of those around you.  I think we will both find that we will become more effective in the delivery of the Word if we take this approach.

My response to the Lord:

Lord, my Father whom I am able to approach with anything, I know that you are faithful and I know that you will complete the work begun in me.  I lift up your name for all that you have done and will do for everything that you do is good and you are worthy of glory for it.  Even your very word is to be glorified Lord.  I am thankful to be able to consider myself adopted into your family.  To be a member of the most high have meant everything to me Father.  Your accepting me in and forgiving me and being merciful and then blessing me with grace after grace has meant more than words can imply to my soul.  Thank you Father.  I remember the day I got laid off.  I remember that morning coming to you in prayer.  I remember a point in prayer where I actually felt fear because I was praying for you to align my life to your will and I knew that that was going to mean change.  At the time, I stopped and laughed with you about how foolish it was of me to fear change in that manner when you are to be trusted with every aspect of my life.  How could I ever trust you to save my eternal soul but not trust you to direct my path of employment? I smirk now at myself then and wonder how many more times in life I might look back and say, “I was so foolish not to trust you more.”?  I don’t want this to be one of those times Father.  I ask you as the Psalmist asked you, strengthen me according to your word.  Make me understand the way of your precepts.  When I fall, Lord revive me according to Your word.  Remove from me anything that is not of You and grant me Your law graciously.  Lord, do not put me to shame, but help me to run the course of Your commandments and enlarge my heart.  Teach me Your statutes and incline my heart to Your testimonies and not to covetousness.  Turn away my eyes from looking at worthless things, and establish Your word to Your servant who is devoted to fearing You.  Turn away my reproach which I dread, For Your judgments are good.  Behold, I long for Your precepts; Revive me in Your righteousness.  I pray this to you my Father in the name of your Son Jesus Christ.

01-26-11 (Day 2) John 17:13-21

Day 2

The passage I read was John 17:13-21

You can find that passage here:

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John+17:13-21&version=NKJV

My summary of the passage is this:

I just cannot seem to summarize this passage no matter what I try.  I end up making it longer every time I put it in my words. 

The verse that most stood out to me was verse 15.  In this verse Jesus says, “I do not pray that You should take them out of the world, but that You should keep them from the evil one.”

As I reflect:

Two things really stood out to me in this passage.  One was all about our separation from the world and how that works.  The other was all about our unity with other believers and how that works.  Together the two are communicating a clarifying message regarding our purpose as believers.  I read that we are not being prayed for by Jesus that we would be taken out of the world but rather that we would be kept from the evil one.  I believe this is clarifying to the many that have surrounded themselves by Christians and only attend Christian events and only go to places where other Christians are and only do “Christian” things.  If you are one of these people, you have given me a very bad rep with the world.  You see when someone hears that I am a Christian, they often immediately define me as someone who thinks I’m better than them and that I’m too breakable (like fine china) to be around them and their activities.  And while we are not to sin or to allow the temptations of the evil one to enter into our hearts, this is not an indication that we are to hide from the evil that is in the world.  Quite the opposite in fact.  We are the hands and feet of the Lord here.  Though we are not “of” the world, we are “in” it and with good purpose meant to be.  If the only things we do and the only places we go are all labeled as “Christian”, then how to we take part in the great commission and reach out to others?  How are we to witness and help those in need if we are wrapped up in our “Christian Bubble” as it were?  I believe that we need to ship out into the storms that thrash this way and that and know that Jesus is here with us through His Holy Spirit and we have nothing to fear because He is the ships guide.  We are as a ship is to be in the ocean, but not allowing the ocean to be in the ship.  We can’t reach those that we shut our eyes to and plug our ears to.  Jesus doesn’t pray for an easy life for us here.  He prays that we would unify as believers and get the job done without the hindrance of the evil one.  He prays the Lord’s empowering upon us.

My response to the Lord:

Lord God, I come before you now knowing that I am in the wrong sooo often.  I have a problem and you know that I confess it to you and seek your guidance and help daily.  I do not often fall into judgment of the world.  As a matter of fact, you know that I am seeking to love the lost.  My sin; my failure is far too often that I will judge my fellow believer due to their worldly view.  I become angry because I feel  that my fellow believer often lives just like the unbeliever or because they are so “Christian” they can’t get off their high chair to reach out to the lost.  Lord I spend so much time judging my fellow believer that I forget that you have called me to unify with them.  This is hard for me Father.  This is my challenge.  God, I pray you forgive me for this and not judge me as I have judged others or I should surely be killed.  Forgive me and help me to be forgiving of other believers as well.  Father please separate judgment from discernment in me that I may better unify and work the harvest with my brother and sister.  Father, I am making an effort, but I need your help.  I need you to multiply my efforts to see my brethren as you see them.  My human eyes are getting in the way far too often and I know I need this fellowship and unity to properly do your will.  I know that you have set up the networking of believers in just such a way that it benefits us to spend time with one another.  Holy Spirit, guide me daily in remembering your call on me to unify with other believers that we may together do your will here.  In Jesus name.

01-25-11 (Day 1) Luke 6:39-45

Day 1

  

The passage I read was Luke 6:39-45

You can find that passage here:

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%206:39-45&version=NIV

My summary of the passage is this:

This passage speaks to several areas.  Jesus is speaking on not judging others, not being a hypocrite, how to help your fellow person, and also the results of the state of your heart. 

There are several key verses that stand out to me in this passage:

39”He also told them this parable: “Can the blind lead the blind? Will they not both fall into a pit?”

40”The student is not above the teacher, but everyone who is fully trained will be like their teacher.”

43”No good tree bears bad fruit, nor does a bad tree bear good fruit.”

As I reflect:

What a large area of coverage in such a short area of the Word.  Here I am reminded that if my walk is not made right with God, how am I to lead someone else in their walk with God.  This would be like a false prophet leading you into a real relationship with Jesus.  This just isn't likely.  A good daily application for this is to remember to always pray before your day has begun that the Lord would do His works through you and that we would not be hindered by the flesh and be distracted from God’s will by our own.  Verse 40 also speaks somewhat to that fact in that if my master or teacher be God, then shouldn't that be reflected in me?  I should do as Jesus.  I should seek to reach out to the lost but I should also be sure that my foundation in Christ is secure if I am to attempt to help someone else in building their foundation on Christ.   I should be sure that if a brother (or sister) need help in any given area, that it is not an area that my own sin nature is currently struggling with before I am able to offer help.  The third area spoken of here is the fruit that we bear.  Verse 43 – 45 speak of how our actions and words will bear witness to what type of person we are.  We (a tree) will bear fruit (words and actions and the results of those words and actions) while we are in this world.  Others will look at those fruit to see what type of tree we really are.  For instance, if you say that you are a Christian, it is expected that your life will bear fruit that resembles Our Lord’s grace, mercy, understanding, patience, and many other characteristics.  However, if you say you are a Christian but live just like the rest of the lost sheep, then there is no truth in you and you deceive yourself.  We can tell by the fruit what kind of tree someone is.  Also, we are reminded to mind our words.  For just as actions and characteristics can be fruit that bear witness to your type of tree, words can bear witness to your heart.  If your heart is evil, we will know by your words.  And if your heart is good (because the Holy Spirit dwells within you) than this too will be heard in your words. 

My response to the Lord:

Lord, may I be ever mindful of the state of my heart and my walk with you before opening my mouth or reaching out to another.  Because I am a wretch and incapable of any good without you, Father I welcome your Holy Spirit always to speak and work through me as only you can.  Let my life bear witness to my heart’s belief in you and may my actions bear witness to our relationship and salt the oats so that others may hunger and thirst for you because of the example you have made me.  Lord, I pray that I may always bear good fruit; an outward result of your work inward on me.  In Jesus name.

01-21-11 (Day 5&6) Matthew 4:19 - bottom line

Day 5 & 6

Matthew 4:19

“Come follow me”, Jesus said, “and I will make you fishers of men.”

See:

Come – we have to do something. An effort is required on our part. Stepping forward towards Christ.

Follow me – remembering the definitions looked up.  This too requires action.  We must do as He does.

Make – he will do this.  We must follow Him, but at some point during that He is molding and will complete molding us into

Fisher of men – someone who is capable and chooses to (by God’s grace and power alone) lead others to Christ.

Search:

Who?  Who is this verse to, from?  The verse is from Jesus and is to those who would answer… me.

What?  What are we when called?  What will He make us if we follow?  We are unqualified sinners.  He will use this lack of qualification to glorify Himself in us by making us into what we cannot make our selves.  Fishers of men.

Where?  Where is this done?  Where will we lead others?  This is done everywhere there are hearts that yearn to be lead by Christ.  We will lead others as we once were lead to Jesus; to salvation in the Son of God; to Heaven.

Why?  Why follow?  Why make us Fishers of men?  Why be fishers of men?  Souls need saving like the sick need doctoring.  There is no other need than where something is broken (our relationship with God), it needs fixing.

How?  How do we follow?  How does He make us fishers of men?  We follow Him by reading His word and applying it daily to our lives and the lives of those around us through the power of His Holy Spirit living mightily in us.  He makes us fishers of men through time and growth that we would one day come to realize how much others also need that which we have and that we would grow in faith and trust the Lord to witness to them through us.  This can be a process of time walking with Jesus, or it can be immediate. 

So what?:

If what I have observed is true, what difference would/should it make?

If while following after Jesus, He will make me a fisher of men, then I should be following after Jesus.

If while following after Jesus, He will make me a fisher of men, then He is making me a fisher of men.

I am a fisher of men when I let others see and hear me following after Jesus and I chose to salt the oats.  This is fishing.

FIND THE BOTTOM LINE:

We must do as Jesus has instructed us.  We must tell others about the Gospel.

SPECK

Sin to avoid:

Being lazy.  Not following His word daily. Ignoring opportunity to witness.

Promise to claim?

If I follow, He “will” make me a fisher of men.

Example to follow?

Christ gave His everything that we may be captured in His love.  We should follow after His example letting nothing hinder our goal to reach others.

Command to obey?

Follow Jesus. 

Knowledge to believe?

Following Him is possible through His Holy Spirit.  Becoming a fisher of men is something that God does in us and therefore it is not natural.  Do not listen to the flesh thus as it is deceitful and will be used by satan to lead you astray from the Lord’s will.  The Lord will use you supernaturally.  Believe, have faith that the Holy Spirit will work through you.  It is not you who saves, but the Lord through you.  Allow yourself to be more useful. 

01-20-11 (Day 4) John 1:43-51

Day 4

The passage I read was John 1:43-51

You can find that passage here:

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John+1:43-51&version=NIV

My summary of the passage is this:

Jesus calls Philip to follow Him.  Philip tells Nathanael he has found Jesus (whom Moses and the prophets spoke about).  Nathanael has doubt but comes to see.  Jesus convinces Nathanael easily by telling him where he was before Philip came to speak to him and Nathanael then confesses Jesus as the Son of God.  Jesus explains that Nathanael will see far greater things than what he has just seen.

Again, this is just my summary of the passage.  Please read the passage for yourselves also as I am not qualified to summarize for your life’s messages from God the very word He has given.  Seek Him for yourselves too. J

As I reflect:

In this passage we see the prejudice of Nathanael against anything good coming from Nazareth.  I haven’t done the research, but in context this seems to point to Nazareth being viewed in a generally poor light.  Thankfully, Nathanael goes to see this Jesus in person anyway.  I would hope others that may negatively view that I am telling them of Jesus’ love for them might also overcome their prejudice long enough to come and meet Jesus.  Also, we see that Nathanael was under the fig tree.  This I have researched and was actually a common phrase among teachers (rabbi) to represent meditation on the scriptures.  So it is possible that Nathanael was either physically sitting under a fig tree when Philip came to find him, or that Nathanael was spending time with God and Jesus tells him, “I saw you” there.  We know either way that we are always seen by God.  We are seen when raying and when not.  In this thought I take the daily application to not attempt impressing God in church as He sees you when you cut people off in the parking lot afterwards to race home to idolize your favorite football team and lust after the girlie on the commercial during the break too.  God sees you always, therefore be always reverent before the Lord and living in such a manner as to welcome Him to work through you and be present in what you spend your time doing. 

Also in this passage, Jesus references a portion of scripture found in Genesis 28 where Jacob has a dream about a ladder from earth to Heaven and angels ascending and descending upon it.  There are a lot of studies I found on this all with slightly differing views.  I would summarize them all along the key two elements.  Jesus compares Nathanael (an honest man) with Jacob (who if you recall lied once to steal a birthright and again to steal a blessing).  The second element and perhaps the more daily applicable without going into a study of Jacob’s life and the consequences of being deceitful, is that Jesus’ comparison to the dream about the ladder and Nathanael seeing this come true is all about Nathanael coming to see that Jesus is actually that ladder spoken of.  Think about it.  Our very existence is separated from God because we are born into sin.  I can come to God and pray why?  I am forgiven of my sins why?  I am getting into Heaven how?  Jesus is the ladder that bridged the gap between earth and Heaven (for those that would come to know Him as Lord and repent that is).  Daily we can know that God will hear us when we call, not because we deserve it, but because Jesus paid it all.  We have been made into a right relationship with God because of Jesus Christ’s blood sacrifice that covered our sins whole.  This is what Nathanael would live to see that was greater than Jesus simply telling him where he was and what he was doing just a moment before Philip showed up to get him.

My response to the Lord:

Lord, I do not serve you nearly as diligently as one ought.  I say I have given you my whole life and so often I find that I am still holding on to parts that I must relinquish control of to you.  My life is not worthy of the great gifts that you have given from your Son to my very breath.  I thank you and praise you for providing my livelihood Father.  I know at times I have shown prejudice in my life for one thing or another and I know there have been times I was proven wrong.  Lord may you help me to separate prejudice and discernment and judgment that I may be more useful. Lord see me beneath the fig tree spending time with you and prepare me by your Holy Spirit to go out into the world and share your Gospel.  I want others to know that the gap between man and God is bridged through the person of Jesus Christ.  I want to explain without fear or cowardice that Jesus is the ladder between earth and Heaven and that there is no other way.  And finally Lord, I pray that I would not forget for even a moment that I am always under your supervision; that I am always being watched, protected, and guided by you.  May my life reflect this truth appropriately.  In Jesus name.  Amen

01-19-11 (Day 3) Numbers 32:6-12

Day 3

The passage I read was Numbers 32:6-12

You can find that passage here:

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Numbers%2032:6-12&version=NIV

My summary of the passage is this:

There were two tribe leaders that didn’t want their tribes to go into the promised land because they were (a. content with the land they were in and (b. didn’t want to go into any more battles.  In other words, they were content in not being faithful and following God whole heartedly to take hold of the prized Promised Land.   In this passage, Moses calls the leaders of these two tribes out, pointing out that their negativity and lacking faith is similar to that of their fathers that were destroyed in the desert a result of their lack of faith, and that the negativity could (similar to that afore mentioned situation) discourage other tribes from taking hold of the promised land the Lord had lead them to. 

These are my words.  Please read the passage for yourself and write it as it has meaning to you.

As I reflect:

 Complacency is contagious.  Here we have a situation that still far too often occurs today.  The equivalent today is that one Christian or a group of Christians desire to fully follow after God.  They desire growth and they want to be close to their Savior and accept the many great gifts He offers them on this wond3erful road throughout their faithful walk.  But then, Satan gets into the thoughts of other more complacent Believers that surround them.  These believers make statements of doubt and choose to be content where they are with no growth in their walk.  They talk about the many dangers of the route that the more dedicated Christians are fixing to choose and they would rather settle where they are than continue a walk of faithfulness that could have hardships and struggles (those very things that allow us to grow stronger and closer to God).  This can discourage a devoted man or woman of God far too easily.  Don’t become complacent.  Don’t allow others to discourage you in your walk with Jesus.  Be encouraged Christian soldier.  The Lord has promises for you and it’s time for you to take hold of those promises.  While others are content at the edge of the desert, you can be the shining light on a hill.  Let no one hinder your walk. 

My response to the Lord:

Lord, you are always faithful and you never fail us.  Why should we not follow after you with our whole hearts?  Lord, please protect me from ever discouraging the heart of another believer from following whole heartedly and also protect me from such discouragement from other non-believers and believers alike.  May I always remember your promises to those who would faithfully follow you with their whole heart, mind, body, and all of their strength.  May I be a shining example of your victories won and not of contentment at the edge of a desert.  You have brought me this far and I know you will complete the work begun in me.  I trust you Father to guide and teach me. 

Psalm 119:105 “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.”

Psalm 25:9 “The humble He guides in Justice, and the humble He teaches His way.”

01-18-11 (Day 2) John 21:15-22

Day 2

The passage I read was John 21:15-22

You can find that passage here:

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John+21:15-22&version=NIV

My summary of the passage is this:

Jesus asks Peter to compare his love for Him with that of the disciples.  He says, “do you love me more than these?”  To which Peter says yes and that He does love Jesus.  Jesus asks him two more times if he loves Him and both times Peter responds again that He does in fact love Jesus.  Jesus also instructed Peter 3 fold to take care of His sheep/lambs.  Jesus then goes on to speak with Peter about his future almost as if in a riddle indicating the kind of death that Peter would have.  Then Peter notices John is following them and he asks Jesus about John.  Jesus advises Peter that it’s not Peter’s business. 

These are my words.  Please read the passage for yourself and write it as it has meaning to you.

As I reflect:

I see this passage as being about two major areas.  One is about comparison to others.  The other area is about comparison to self (in a way).  Peter, if you recall is the one who denied Jesus thrice before the cock crowed.  3 times before Jesus’ death, Peter was asked if he knew Jesus and all three times he denied the Lamb of God.  This passage in chapter 21 however takes place after Jesus’ death and resurrection.  And so as Jesus here asks him 3 times if he loved Him because I believe He wanted to offer Peter a chance at restoration and to encourage him in the road that would follow.  3 times now Peter had to affirm His love to Jesus (2 different types of love also.  The Greek used implied he was asked of brotherly love as well as of agape).  Each time Peter responded, Jesus followed his response with a command to feed or take care of His sheep or lambs.  This shows the Lord giving Peter reassurance and encouraged direction.  Peter eventually gives his all to the ministry for Jesus and is killed by crucifixion.   So Peter went from life of selfishness to life of selfless servitude for Christ. This is the restoration Jesus offers us all.  I was offered this restoration from being a fake that did drugs and all sorts of evils and yet claimed Christ as my Savior.  I have been restored and encouraged.  I have been given opportunity to serve Christ with my life.  I am reminded as Peter looked back at John, that we needn’t compare ourselves, our deeds or failures with other Christians or the unsaved.  We instead are to follow after Christ wholeheartedly and in the pursuit of the Kingdom, may we reach and bring with us as many as we can as well as edify and encourage those already headed to the same place. 

My response to the Lord:

Lord, I can’t lie to you, nor do I have desire to.  You know my sins.  You know my heart.  You know that judgment is a area of sin in my life that requires and receives a great amount of attention and constant effort to control.  Lord continue to mold me in this and help me daily not to judge others saved or unsaved any differently than by the mercy and grace you have shown me.  Thank you for restoration Lord.  You deserve all praise and worship for simply being you, but may I add that I will give you glory always for the restorative work you have done and continue to do in and through me.  I have heard your call to follow you and I daily answer.  Lord help me to answer more boldly and do more as the day of your son’s return draws near.  May I stay humble, not ashamed.  May I be effective by your might, not my weakness.  May I be lifted up on your wings, not my pride.  In Jesus name. 

01-17-11 (Day 1) Hebrews 11:8-16

DAY 1

The passage I read was Hebrews 11:8-16

You can find that passage here:

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Hebrews+11:8-16&version=NIV

The verse that most stands out to me in this passage:

13 All these people were still living by faith when they died.  They did not receive the things promised; they only saw them and welcomed them from a distance, admitting that they were foreigners and strangers on earth.

As I reflect:

In verses 8-12 we are given examples of those in the Bible who lived by faith.  Specifically, the examples given are of those who faithfully responded to God and yet did not get to receive fully their promised inheritance during this lifetime.  In verse 13-16 they are defined as a people who are looking for their true home.  We see this in them by their actions.  If they were a people of this world, then they would desire and trust only in the things of this world.  However, because each of them trusted God for their next step (even when it was not seen) they showed that they were people of faith that were destined for their home in Heaven.  We have this same choice here.  As people watch our actions, they are seeing the evidence of our faith.  Is our faith….Is my faith such that when people watch my life they see that I am living for the Lord and my home in Heaven?  Do they see that I am a foreigner here and that I do not act like those of this land because I do not believe as those of this land?  This should show as evidence of our own faith in things not seen.

Hebrews 11:1-2 (The Message)

 ^1-2The fundamental fact of existence is that this trust in God, this faith, is the firm foundation under everything that makes life worth living. It's our handle on what we can't see. The act of faith is what distinguished our ancestors, set them above the crowd.

Hebrews 11:1-2 (New King James Version)

 ¹ Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. ² For by it the elders obtained a good testimony.

My response to the Lord:

Father God, you above all others know that I am not perfect by any means other than your son’s blood covering my sins.  You know my failures and stumbling blocks though you choose to look past them and show mercy.  Lord, daily in my walk with you I am faced with this thought; this driving knowledge that others are watching to see if my life reflects the faith I have in you or if I will fall flat on my face and fail to glorify you in my hardships.  More important than that is the thought that you see not only my actions but my every thought.  You know me.  I am your sheep.  And though I know that my greatest gift to you is still without worth, I am also convinced here by your word that you can be pleased with me and that I can obtain a good testimony.  For your word says, “without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.” Father, I believe this of you and I diligently seek you daily.  May you reward my efforts and be pleased that I continue daily in this walk by faith that others may see your glory at work in my life.  In Jesus Name.

01-15-11 (Day 6) week summary

Day 6

Summarize key ideas:

Be fully devoted to learning, obeying, and following after Jesus.  Don’t procrastinate.  Make no excuse not to follow now.   We can succeed in what God calls us to, if we obey Him.  We needn't fear answering the call.  A saved man doesn't want to go to Heaven alone, so be sure to include all you come across in this opportunity to know God and be forgiven.  You may receive persecution for this, but it’s worth it for the few that will listen and learn.   Remember to always spend time meditating on the word and learn to use it in war for this is the sword of the spirit.  Don’t just believe, act on that belief. 

Life Application:

This week’s studies have been hard hitting get off your butt and serve the Lord type studies.  They have led to no other life application than this; to serve the Lord, following His every word in obedience and seeking after the lost to minister to them as you have been ministered to. 

01-14-11 (Day 5) Matthew 4:19

DAY 5

Matthew 4:19

¹⁹ Then He said to them, “Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men.”

Define Key Words:

Follow:

–to go or come after; move behind in the same direction: Drive ahead, and I'll follow you.

-to accept as a guide or leader; accept the authority of orgive allegiance to: Many Germans followed Hitler.

-to conform to, comply with, or act in accordance with; obey: to follow orders; to follow advice.

-to imitate or copy; use as an exemplar: They follow thelatest fads.

-to go after or along with (a person) as companion.

-to go in pursuit of: to follow an enemy.

-to try for or attain to: to follow an ideal.

–to attend or serve.

–the act of following.

Fisherman:

-a person who fishes, whether for profit or pleasure.

In my own words:

Jesus told us to obey Him and do for others what He does for us so that they too may be saved.  He says he will teach us how to lead them to salvation. 

01-13-11 (Day 4) John 10:22-31

DAY 4

The passage I read was John 10:22-31

You can find that passage here:

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%2010:22-31&version=NKJV

My summary of the passage is this:

This is a pretty short passage so instead of putting it in my own words, I’ll encourage you to go and read it for yourselves.  My favorite verse from this passage is 27 which says (NKJV) “My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me.”

As I reflect:

The Jews asked Jesus to be simple and plain with a sentence like, “Yes, I am the Messiah”.  But it wouldn’t matter even if Jesus did speak that plainly to them because they had not ears to hear what He was truly saying anyway.  The same is true of any non-believer whose heart isn’t prepared to receive the truth.  The Gospel mysteries are made known in the believer, not in unbelief.  Just as we are instructed not to throw pearls before swine, here Jesus refused to give great wisdom and insight to the accusers around him.  He knew they wouldn’t get it because he had already told them in other words before.  So, instead He tells them that His sheep (the followers of Jesus) can hear him.  He is talking about us.  The believing and following Christian.  He is saying that we hear him (understand that the written word is true and every word applies to us) and that we follow hi, (apply the word daily to our walk with Christ).  We are alive in Christ and Him through His Holy Spirit in us.   I think for me it’s important to note daily that simply believing in Jesus isn’t enough.  In verse 27 he says we follow him.  Likewise sheep of a field will follow the shepherd that leads them.  If they fail to follow and are not quickly guided back into the group, there are many dangers for them such as the wolves that would devour or the fast moving current of a strong river that would sweep them away if they.  Thankfully our shepherd loves us and quickly guides us back to the flock saving us from such swift ends.   I find it important in my own life to daily remember that being a Christian isn’t just lip service to others.  If Jesus’ death and resurrection has actual truth to me, then how can I remain as I was before I confessed Him as Lord over my life?  I can’t remain the same.  Every day I am to seek the Lord’s will and follow through on what I know his word says to be true.  This passage for me, on this day, is about listening to and heading the good word of my Shepherd.

My response to the Lord:

Lord, I am thankful that you not only hear my voice, but that you send your messages back to me day in and day out through your written word, through friends, through signs, and even miracles daily in the least expected places.  I know that your word to the unbeliever is foolishness, but to me Father it is life.  You leadeth me beside still waters so that I don’t get in over my head elsewhere.  You truly do lead me to green pastures.  Though I have trials and tribulations in life, you always give me good spiritual rest and provide a way out from my temptations.  You are my good Shepherd Jesus.  You have never let me stray too far that you could not bring me back, for your have purchased me and find value in me.  I can never thank you enough for saving and continuing to save me daily from my old flesh Lord.  I am completely yours.  Help me to reflect what you have done for me to others.  Help me to be an example for the kingdom.  Reach others through me Lord.  And then through them.  And then through whomever they would reach… Lord, allow me to be a worker in the harvest and may other workers be brought to help through seeing my efforts and your graces.  In Jesus Name.

01-12-11 (Day 3) Luke 5:27-32

DAY 3

The passage I read was Luke 5:27-32

You can find that passage here:

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke+5:27-32&version=NIV

My summary of the passage is this:

In this passage, Jesus calls Levi (Matthew a tax collector) to follow after Him.  Upon doing so, Levi also gives Jesus a great feast at his house.  Some of the Pharisees and their scribes complained against Jesus’ disciples asking why they ate with tax collectors and sinners.  Jesus replied with two of my favorite verses, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick.  I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.”

As I reflect:

First off, again the called immediately left everything behind with no question and followed after God.  I just love these examples of willingness to sacrifice it all at the leap of faith to follow after Jesus.  In this particular instance, again it was a very lucrative business.  Tax collecting of that time…and I guess of this time as well is a particularly wealthy industry.  During those days they were not allowed into the Jewish faith because tax collectors were viewed with such extreme distain as traitors and extortionist. So not much has changed I guess. Lol.  Anyhow I read once that the reason Matthew (Levi) invited Jesus over for a feast with all his friends, was so that they could meet Jesus.  The saying I heard was (and I love this), “A saved man doesn’t want to go to Heaven alone.”  Isn’t that awesome?!  Also, today I was reading a commentary on this passage and read an interesting point that I had not before heard made.  The Pharisees and their scribes were making an accusation indirectly against Jesus by accusing His disciples.  The same is also true today isn’t it?  Aren’t there those today that continue to attack Jesus through His disciples?  I know I have felt a portion of these attacks as a direct result of my following after Jesus and I count it all joy to relate to the disciples in this way.  And now a few quotes regarding the last 2 verses of the passage.  The following quotes received from Enduringword.com because I just had to share.  So powerful.

Jesus’ answer shows us what kind of people are really willing to come to Him as Savior - those who recognize their own need for salvation.
Some people think they will come to Jesus for a little bit of cosmetic surgery. They don’t think they are sick but they think they could use a little improvement. Jesus, the Great Physician, only admits patients who see themselves are truly sick and in need of a doctor.
The church is the only group in the world where you have to be unqualified before you can join.

My response to the Lord:

Lord again I see the devotion of your disciple and again I know that I am a failure in comparison to their willingness to lay it all down and follow you.  I am simply so complacent and selfish in my flesh that I often fail to put you first.  I am glad that I am compared only to my own past me and in that I have seen a great deal of progress as you continue convicting and working in me.  I am happy when I look back for comparison and I see a trail of your mercy and grace molding me.  I see on either side of the road I have travelled with you, there are these pieces of who I used to be.  The evidences of your chisel working away at my heart and today I can look at the fruit in my life and I know that you have provided every good thing; every good characteristic.  Without you Lord, I’d be lost not only now but for eternity.  Without you, I’d be damned to burn in hell fire and complete separation forever.  I know how very much I need you day and night in my life.  I know and am thankful for your Son Whom has done far more than just died on a cross.  Thank you Jesus for rising from the tomb and showing true your power over this world, over death, and over the enemy.  Thank you for salvation.  I want my friends to know you.  I want my family to know you and live for you.  I want the total strangers I come across everyday to repent and fall before your feet to receive your good grace Lord.   Help me to be more devoted that I may lay down my life completely without any hesitation and be more useful in bringing forth your kingdom.  

01-11-11 (Day 2) Matthew 4:18-22

DAY 2

The passage I read was Exodus 3:1-12

You can find that passage here:

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=exodus%203:1-12&version=NIV

My summary of the passage is this:

Moses is tending to his flock of sheep when he sees the burning bush (but fire didn’t consume it), so he goes to check it out and God calls him by name and tells him not to come any closer and to take off his sandals cuz it’s holy ground.  God introduces himself and explains that he has come to deliver his oppressed people in Egypt.  God tells Moses that He’s going to send him to Pharaoh to bring God’s people out of Egypt.  Moses is hesitant and afraid and God comforts him saying, “I will certainly be with you.  And this shall be a sign to you that I have sent you: When you have brought the people out of Egypt, you shall serve God on this mountain.”

As I reflect:

God called Moses to do something huge in history.  Though Moses shows some fear in verse 11 questioning the Lord’s choice, he will end up doing exactly as the Lord has called him to do.  Moses succeeds in freeing the people of Israel not due to his own merit, but because he obeys what God tells him to do.  In the following story line you can read many times God telling Moses what to do next and as long as Moses sticks to what God says, then God is with him and causes success to his efforts.  Much later in the story Moses fails only when he chooses to go outside of what the Lord told him to do.  We needn’t fear when the Lord tells us to do something no matter how big or how small.  Just know that if you do as the Lord calls you to, He will be with you on your journey.  Need we know more beyond this?  Don’t ask God to show you the end result ahead of time, just be obedient in taking the first step… Then the next, and so on.  Trust in Him to manage the details of down the road wherever that may be and be sure to never attempt to take that plan or calling into your own hands at the cost of disobeying or you may (as Moses) lose out on the promise that was implied.

My response to the Lord:

Holy Father, May I be as obedient as Moses in even the smallest of callings in my life, for it is no small thing that you have called me at all.  I am thankful for the calling and though at times I do stumble, you always life me back up.  May I always keep my eyes on you Lord, that you would guide each step of mine in the plan you have for me.  May I always remember that you are with me through your Holy Spirit and that I needn’t fear anything that is before me because I am with you.  Lord, please multiply my efforts to answer the calling you have placed on me.  Thank you for gracing me with your presence and power on this journey.  I deserve death, but you have granted me life.  May I serve you diligently with that life you have given.  In Jesus name I pray. Amen.