Life Journal September 1, 2007
Today's Readings: Ezekiel 15, 16; Psalm 70; Revelation 6

Our Covenant-Keeping God

Topic: God's Nature

Scripture

"Now this is what the Sovereign Lord says: I will give you what you deserve, for you have taken your solemn vows lightly by breaking your covenant. Yet I will keep the covenant I made with you when you were young, and I will establish an everlasting covenant with you. Then you will remember with shame all the evil you have done. . . . And I will reaffirm my covenant with you, and you will know that I am the Lord. You will remember your sins and cover your mouth in silence and shame when I forgive you of all that you have done, says the Sovereign Lord."

Ezekiel 16.59-63 (NLT)

Observation

That while we are often unfaithful in our commitment to God--He desires to remain in relationship with us and not only keeps his covenant with us . . . . . He establishes an everlasting one with us.

Application (How will I be different today because of what I have just read?)

This Scripture reminds me that once I become a child of God, I am His forever. His everlasting covenant (His Son, Jesus Christ, taking on my sin and paying the price in full for it--dying my death) with me is just that . . . . everlasting. He paid the price, once and for all time, for me. All because He wants to be in relationship with me. Me a sinner. He loves me that much.

What will it look like if I walk in that covenant relationship with Him--if I do my part? (I know He does His part.) To love Him first and put Him first in all areas of my life. To love what He loves. To love the lost and share His love with them. To say "no" to my rebellious and sinful self. To remember that it is not about me--it is about my Lord. To die to my self. To choose to walk in the Light. To choose to do what He calls me to do. To choose--every minute of every day--to find my life in Him.

Prayer

Lord God, I am overwhelmed by the thought that You desire to be in relationship with me--me a sinner. You love me . . . . . . . just as I am. Lord, I want to live a life that brings You honor and glory. I want to please You and You alone. But Lord, I often fall down--slip-up--make a mess of things-- because I try to please others . . . . . . or even worse, I worry about pleasing myself. Today Lord, I start fresh. Today Lord, I once again commit myself to following You. Today Lord, I will love you first. Help me Lord to be the person You have called me to be--Your child. Thank You Lord for loving me, today and everyday, especially when I am not so lovable. I do love You. May it show today! Amen.

Life Journal August 31, 2007
Today's readings: Ezekiel 12-15; Revelation 5

Heavenly Worship

Topic: Worship

Scripture

And when he [the Lamb of God] took the scroll, the four living beings and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb. Each one had a harp, and they held gold bowls filled with incense, which are the prayers of God's people. And they sang a new song with these words.

"You are worthy to take the scroll

and break its seals and open it.

For you were slaughtered, and your blood

has ransomed people for God

from every tribe and language and

people and nation.

And you have cause them to become

a Kingdom of priests for our God.

And they will reign on the earth."

Then I looked again, and I heard the voices of thousands and millions of angels around the throne and of the living beings and the elders. And they sang in a mighty chorus:

"Worthy is the Lamb who was slaughtered--

to receive power and riches

and wisdom and strength

and honor and glory and blessing."

And then I heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and in the sea. They sang:

"Blessing and honor and glory and power

belong to the One sitting on the throne

and to the Lamb forever and ever."

And the four living beings said, "Amen!" And the twenty-four elders fell down and worshiped the Lamb.

Revelation 5. 8-14 (NLT)

Observation

True worship--our only worship--belongs ONLY to "the One sitting on the throne and to the Lamb."

Application

These Scriptures paint an amazing picture of worship. . . .Heaven-style. I cannot imagine what it will be like to have my entire focus on worshiping God and Christ. Nothing else will matter. No idols will get in my way. No other thoughts will flood my mind. I was created for worship and will live that out in Heaven in an amazing way.

The Ezekiel reading today, though, reminds us of how quickly we are to worship other things--idols--now. Instead of putting our full focus on God while we are here on earth, we worship everything else. We even worship our style of worship. Once again I have to stop and take inventory of the idols in my life. What am I putting before God? What are my worship priorities? On Sunday mornings (or any time), do I focus only on worshiping God--or on all that is going on around me? [who is saying what to whom, those who choose to not worship outwardly, those who speak, those who don't speak, my message, other's responses . . . the list goes on and on and on]

I was created for one thing--to be in relationship with God. To love Him. To demonstrate my love for Him by worshiping Him--not just for an hour on Sunday morning but 24/7. If I did that . . . if we all did that . . . how different would the world look today? It might give us a glimpse of heaven. [smile]

Prayer

Father God and Holy Lamb of God, I want to place You at the center of my thoughts and all I do. I want to love you and worship You through my every word, thought, and action. But, I know that I am a long way from that. I look forward to the day, when in Heaven there will be nothing else to get in my way! But, may I learn to be more of a worshiper every day. amen

Life Journal August 30, 2007
Today's Readings Ezekiel 8-11; Revelation 4
[I'm back from vacation]

Turning Our Hearts Toward Home

Topic: True Worship

Scripture

"When the people return to their homeland, they will remove every trace of their detestable idol worship. And I will give them singleness of heart and put a new spirit within them. I will take away their hearts of stone and give them tender hearts [Hebrew: hearts of flesh] instead, so they will obey my laws and regulations. Then they will truly be my peole, and I will be their God. But as for those who long for idols, I will repay them fully for their sins, says the Sovereign Lord."

Ezekiel 11.18-21 (NLT)

Observation

When we return to our "homeland"--to God--and cast aside our idols [even those that appear to be Godly] then, and only then, can we truly give ourselves completely to God.

Application (How will I be different today because of what I have just read?)

What idols do I worship? It is easy for me to name those things that are in the world that I have to really watch myself about or else I can easily find myself worshiping them. Those are things that are common to most of us--money, power, possessions, people, etc.

But, if I read the chapters before these verses, I see that the idol worship that God was speaking against was actually happening in the Temple! That changes the focus.

So now the question is--what things within the church do I worship? Do I worship the organ? A certain style of music? A specific version of the Bible? Certain elements used in the Lord's Supper/Communion [bread vs wafer vs unleavened bread vs crackers]? The real question is--what do I focus on instead of God during my worship? Anything that gets between me and God takes our worship away from God.

Example: We see someone who we feel isn't dressed appropriately for church--and that is different for each one of us. I am not saying we are worshiping that person and their style of dress--but we are worshiping the style of dress that we believe is correct. We are focused on what they are not doing right--because we know what is right. Our focus moves from God to what pleases us.

So, what do I need to do? I need to fix my eyes and my thoughts on "Home"--in other words, on God. He needs to be what I worship. He needs to be all that I see. When I focus on Him all other things fade away and my heart is where it needs to be.

In the Revelation 4 reading--we get a glimpse of what worship will be like when we are Home, truly Home. There will be nothing else to pull our attention away from the King of kings:

"Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty--

the one who always was, who is,

and who is to come."

Whenever the living begins give glory and honor and thanks to the one sitting on the throne, the one who lives forever and ever, the twenty-four elders fall down and worship the one who lives forever and ever. And they lay their crowns before the throne and say,

"You are worthy, O Lord our God,

to receive glory and honr and power.

For you created everything,

and it is for your pleasure that they

exist and were created."

Revelation 4.8b-11 (NLT)

We were created to worship God. He is our Home. He alone is worthy of our worship.

Prayer

Lord God, the Almighty One, Creator, Savior, Lover of my soul, to You and You alone belongs all worship. To You and You alone does my heart belong. I pray for singleness of heart. I pray for a new spirit--Your Spirit--to live within me. Father, take away my heart of stone and give me a tender heart--a heart after Your heart. Lord, help me to obey, give me the wisdom to obey your commands. May I love You with all my heart and all my mind and all my strength. And, may I love my neighbor--each one of them--with Your perfect love. And may I be stirred to action--to point others Home. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Life Journal August 8, 2007

Today's readings: Jeremiah 1,2; John 10

Chosing

Scripture

The Lord gave me a message. He said, "I knew you before I formed you in your mother's womb. Before you were born I set you apart and appointed you as my spokesman to the world."

"O Sovereign Lord," I said, "I can't speak for you! I'm too young!"

"Don't say that," the Lord replied, "for you must go wherever I send you and say whatever I tell you. And don't be afraid of the people, for I will be with you and take care of you. I, the Lord, have spoken!"

Then the Lord touched my mouth and said, "See, I have put my words in your mouth!"

Jeremiah 1.5-9 (NLT)

Observation

God knows each of us intimately and calls us to service.

Application (How will I be different today because of what I have just read?)

I believe that the words in Jeremiah are for me, just as they are for everyone. As I read God's word to Jeremiah, I can hear Him saying it to me. It is an amazing thing for me to think that God knew me before I was formed--that He set me apart to serve Him.

But, what excuses, like Jeremiah, do I use? "O Sovereign Lord, I can't speak for you! I'm too _____________!" I can fill in the blank with many different things. Reasons and excuses why I certainly can't do what He has called me to do. Jeremiah said he was too young. Am I too old? My excuses for not doing what God calls me to do are often numerous.

While God sets me apart to serve Him--I am still given a choice. I can still say "no." Or, I can say "yes!" and be the servant He has called me to be.

If I say "yes!" to God, I can trust that He will do His part. That doesn't mean that it will be easy, that the message will be one that everyone will want to hear, that my life will be without problems. On the contrary . . . I can count on it being just the opposite. But, at the same time, I will have a sense of being faithful to what the Father has called me to do. I can rest in the assurance that I am not alone. I can live the life that I was created for--serving my Father . . . wherever He sends me and doing whatever He commands.

Prayer

Father, I am amazed that You would set me apart and appoint me as Your spokesman to the world. May I be found willing, faithful, and passionate as I share the Good News of Jesus Christ wherever You put me. Amen

Life Journal August 7, 2007
Today's readings: Zephaniah 1-3; John 9

Born Blind

Topic: Disicpleship

Scripture

As Jesus was walking along, he saw a man who had been blind from birth. "Teacher," his disciples asked him, "why was this man born blind? Was it a result of his own sins or those of his parents?"

"It was not because of his sins or his parent's sins," Jesus answered. He was born blind so the power of God could be seen in him. All of us must quickly carry out the tasks assigned us by the one who sent me, because there is little time left before the night falls and all work comes to an end. But while I am still here in the world, I am the light of the world."

Then he spit on the ground, made mud with the saliva, and smoothed the mud over the blind man's eyes. He told him, "Go and wask in the pool of Siloam." So the man went and washed, and came back seeing!

John 9.1-7 (NLT)

Observation

Often those things that we see in our lives as handicaps are actually meant to bring glory to God. God can use everyone--no matter what shape we are in--to demonstrate His power and to accomplish His mission.

Application

So often I use the excuse that I can't do something because of my "handicaps." I allow the enemy to convice me that God couldn't use me--and I become powerless.

God uses my weaknesses--my handicaps--"so the power of God" can be seen in me. The weaker I become the more of God others will see in me.

Paul writes to the Corinthians, So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may work through me. Since I know it is all for Christ's good, I am quite content with my weaknesses and with insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong." [2 Corinthians 12.8b-10]

The enemy would tell me that if God really loved me, really cared about me, I wouldn't have any problems. When in truth, the more problems I have, the more I rely on Him--and the more I rely on Him, the more others will see of Him in my life.

You see the enemy, Satan, wants me to believe that I am powerless so that I won't carry out the tasks that God assigns to me. Time is short--God has work for me to do. If I sit around and whine and complain about how I can't do it because of my weaknesses--then there are folks that might not hear the Truth . . . . . the Good News, before darkness falls.

Jesus is the Light of the world and He has called me to use me as a carrier of the Light. The Light is not me--but it lives in me because Christ lives in me through the Holy Spirit.

It is time for me to set aside my excuses and to embrace my weaknesses with joy--"For when I am weak, then I am strong!"

Prayer

Lord God, please fill me with Your Holy Spirit and with Your Light. May I become less and less as you fill me more and more. Lord, I am weak--You alone are my strength. May I walk and serve in Your Light and Your strength. Amen.

Life Journal August 3, 2007

Today's readings: Nahum 1-3; John 5

Move

Topic: Discipleship

Scripture

Afterward Jesus returned to Jerusalem for one of the Jewish holy days. Inside the city, near the Sheep Gate, was the pool of Bethesda, with five covered porches. Crowds of sick people--blind, lame or paralyzed--lay on the porches. One of the men lying there had been sick for thirty-eight years. When Jesus saw him and knew how long he had been ill, he asked him, "Would you like to get well?"

"I can't, sir," the sick man said, "for I have no one to help me into the pool when the water is stirred up. While I am trying to get there, someone else always gets in ahead of me."

Jesus told him, "Stand up, pick-up your sleeping mat, and walk!"

Instantly, the man was healed! He rolled up the mat and began walking! But this miracle happened on the Sabbath day. So the Jewish leaders objected. They said to the man who was cured, "You can't work on the Sabbath! It's illegal to carry that sleeping mat!"

He replied, "The man who healed me said to me, 'Pick up your sleeping mat and walk.'"

"Who said such a thing as that?" they demanded.

The man didn't know. for Jesus had disappeared into the crowd. But afterward Jesus found him in the Temple and told him, "Now you are well, so stop sinning, or something even worse may happen to you." Then the man went to find the Jewish leaders and told them it was Jesus who had healed him.

John 5.1-15 (NLT)

Observation

Jesus knows just what we need and when!

Application (How will I be different today because of what I just read?)

Jesus' first question to the man was--"Do you want to be healed?" Seems like a silly question considering the man's condition and where he was. The man came back with excuses--none of them were his fault. I don't think he knew that whining is not a spiritual gift.

How often do I sit and whine about circumstances--instead of looking to God for the answer?

Jesus then tells him, "Pick up your sleeping mat and walk." It was what he needed to do.

Do I listen when Jesus tells me what I need to do to move out of the circumstance I am in?

The man did what Jesus told him to do--and "instantly" he was healed! I wonder what would happen if I would respond to Jesus that quickly?

In Jesus I have the answers I need to move out of my circumstance. I just need to listen and obey. Not listen to those around me telling me why it's not right. I have to trust the one in whom I have put my faith--Jesus. He knows just what I need--and is glad to help me. It is up to me to move.

Prayer

Father God, thank You that You do not leave me in my circumstances--that You offer me a way out--Jesus. Help me to not sit and whine, but to look to Jesus for my salvation and help. In Jesus name, Amen.

Life Journal August 1, 2007
Today's readings: Isaiah 65, 66; Psalm 62; John 3

Living In the Light

Topic: Discipleship

Scripture

[Jesus speaking]

"For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life. God did not send his Son into the world to condemn it, but to save it.

"There is no judgment awaiting those who trust him. But those who do not trust him have already been judged for not believing in the only Son of God. Their judgment is based on this fact: The light from heaven came into the world, but they loved the darkness more than the light, for their actions were evil. They hate the light because they want to sin in the darkness. They stay away from the light for fear their sins will be exposed and they will be punished. But those who do what is right come to the light gladly, so everyone can see that they are doing what God wants."

John 3.16-21 (NLT)

Observation

Jesus is the Light of the world. If we put our trust in Him and believe and walk in the Light, then we have nothing to fear.

Application [How will I be different today because of what I have just read?]

I remember what it is like to walk in the darkness--and to see the Light and be drawn to it, yet be afraid of it. I remember thinking that this "Good News" could not be fore me--I had fallen too far, God would not want me. So much had happened in the darkness--how could the Light come in and fill it?

But the LIght did come--it dispelled the darkness. God did want ME! To Him I was worth saving!

So, why do I still have areas of my life that are in the darkness? Why have I not allowed the Light to fill those spaces too? Why do I hold so tightly to those places? What am I afraid of losing?

I hope that there are fewer and fewer spaces of darkness in my life--that God continues to reveal and shed His Light on them--and together we claim them as His and overcome them. God has already paid in full for my life. How can I hold anything back? He has redeemed every area of my Life and they all belong to Him--I just have to let Him into those places. He will come--not with judgment and condemnation--but with the gifts of healing and wholeness and love--and fill each of those places with His marvelous Light!

Prayer

My precious Savior, thank You for bringing Your Light into my life. Thank You for filling the darkness with Your amazing Light. Lord, You know the areas that I hold back--those that are still in the darkness. I give them to You--Come Lord Jesus--bring Your healing Light into each area and restore it--redeem it--fill it. I belong to You--I don't want to hold anything back from You! You alone are my all in all. Thank You for loving me so much! I receive Your love anew today! In Jesus name, Amen.

Life Journal July 31, 2007
Today's Readings: Isaiah 63, 64; Psalm 107; John 2

Saved!

Topic: God's Character

Scripture

"Lord, help!" they cried in their trouble,

and he [God] rescued them from their distress.

Psalm 107. 6, 13, 19, 28 (NLT)

"I will tell of the Lord's unfailing love.

I will praise the Lord for all he has done.

I will rejoice in his great goodness to Israel,

which he has granted according to his mercy and love. . . .

And he became their Savior.

In all their suffering he also suffered,

and he personally rescued them.

In his love and mercy he redeemed them.

He lifted them up and carried them through all the years."

Isaiah 63.7-9 (NLT)

Observation

God is ever faithful to step in and save us!

Application

The verses from Psalm 107 each follow verses where the people of God were in trouble-- because of their own choices. But, God stepped in when He was called upon. He didn't intrude on them--He waited and waited, knowing someday that they would get into some mess and call on Him to help.

He does the same thing today--He patiently waits for me to ask Him to step in. He doesn't barge in. . . . He waits. . . . He listens . . . . And as soon as I say, "Lord, help!" He's there. He always was there . . . . He doesn't ever leave me . . . . But He does wait for me to reach out to Him.

Why do I wait until I'm in a mess to call on Him? Why do I think I need to prove that I can do it on my own? I can't. He doesn't even expect me to. As a matter of fact, He doesn't want me to--He knows it will be easier if I call out ahead of time. . . . Not wait until I'm in trouble.

Sometimes I do better than other times. Sometimes I do ask for His help in the beginning--and it goes so much better when I do. Sometimes I remember that He wants to help . . . . it makes Him smile when I ask Him to help me. Sometimes . . . . should be all-the-time.

I am thankful that He is patient . . . . that He never leaves me . . . . never stops loving me . . . . continues to rescue me . . . . that in His love and mercy He redeems me . . . . that He lifts and carries me.

"I will tell of the Lord's unfailing love. I will praise the Lord for all he has done. I will rejoice in his great goodness to me, which he has granted according to his mercy and love!!" [Isaiah 63.7]

Prayer

To You, O Lord, do I give thanks! To You, O Lord, do I give my praise! You alone are worthy! You have saved me! You have redeemed me! You have called me Your child! You have rescued me! You love me!! Thank You, my Father. Thank You, for loving me too much to let me go! Thank You for Your Son, Jesus! It is in the name of Your Son, Jesus, my brother, my redeemer, my friend, that I pray this, Amen and amen!

Life Journal July 30, 2007
Today's readings: Isaiah 60-62; John 1

True Light

Topic: Jesus

Scripture

"Arise Jerusalem! Let your light shine for all the nations to see! For the glory of the Lord is shining upon you. Darkness as black as night will cover all the nations of the earth, but the glory of the Lord will shine over you. All nations will come to your light.

Mighty kings will come to see your radiance....

"No longer will you need the sun or moon to give you light, for the Lord your God will be your everlasting light, and he will be your glory.The sun will never set; the moon will not go down.

For the Lord will be your everlasting light."

Isaiah 60.1-3,19-20 (NLT)

"Life itself was in him, and this life gives light to everyone.

The light shines through the darkness,

and the darkness can never extinguish it.

"God sent John the Baptist to tell everyone about the light so that everyone might believe because of his testimony. John himself was not the light; he was only a witness to the light. The one who is the true light, who gives light to everyone, was going to come into the world."

John 1.4-9 (NLT)

Observation

God sent His Son, Jesus, to light the way that leads to Him.

Application

One only has to read the newspaper or listen to the news to realize how dark the world truly is. 1 Peter 5.8 tells us that "...the Devil, your great enemy. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for some victim to devour." In other words, the enemy walks on this earth, bringing with him death and destruction and darkness. It is a scarey place to be--if you are alone without the Light.

I know what it is like to walk in the darkness--the sense of hopelessness and the endless darkness that comes with it. It is a very scarey place to be. I know what it is to be lost in the world's darkness--but I also know what it is to find the Light!

God wants us to walk in the light with Him--that is why He sent His Son, Jesus. He is the Light that leads to the Father of Lights! When we reach out to Jesus, He lights the path that leads to God.

I am so thankful for God's promise--"The light shines through the darkness, and the darkness can never extinguish it."

The Light is always there for us--we only need to step into it!

Prayer

Father God, thank You for the Light of Jesus Christ. Thank You that He lights the path that leads to You! Thank You that even when I might stray from the path, the Light can always lead me back to Your path. May Your Light shine brightly in my life. In Jesus name, our Savior, Redeemer and Friend, we pray this, Amen.

Life Journal July 17, 2007
Today's Readings: Isaiah 29-31; James 1

More Than Lip Service

Topic: Discipleship

Scripture

"And so the Lord says, 'These people say they are mine. They honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far away. And their worship of me amounts to nothing more than human laws learned by rote.'"

Isaiah 29.13-14 (NLT)

"And remember, it is a message to obey, not just to listen to. If you don't obey, you are only fooling yourself. For if you just listen and don't obey, it is like looking at your face in a mirror but doing nothing to improve your appearance. You see yourself, walk away, and forget what you look like. But if you keep looking steadily into God's perfect law--the law that sets you free--and if you do what it says and don't forget what you heard, then God will bless you for doing it."

James 1.22-25 (NLT)

Observation

Whether we truly "get it"--believe--is demonstrated by how we live our lives.

Application

Knowing all the right words is easy--I guess that is why we gravitate in that direction and find ourselves comfortable with religious traditions. But, living the life that God calls us to requires us to die to our old selves and be obedient to what He calls us to.

Our Churches today are dying . . . Why? Because we have been just listening and not obeying and living the life that God has called us to. We are so inward focused and worried about if things are done our way (which of course we have determined must be the right way)--that in many cases it is the tradition and the words that we worship--not God. We say we worship God, but we are concerned about all the wrong things--style of music, getting our way, dress, etc--we don't care about all the lost.

We are called to obey God's law--Jesus tells us what the most important commandments are: 'You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. A second is equally important. Love your neightbor as yourself. All the other commandments and all the demands of the prophets are based on these two commandments." (Matthew 22.37-40, NLT) Loving God and loving others. That is what we are commanded to do. And everything else that we do should come as a result of those two commandments.

Living out the lives that God has called us to is not some religious practice--it is a life lived sacrificially and radically. It is hard and dirty work--but it is the work we have been called to in serving God.

It is time that we quit giving lip service to the religion we practice and embrace the call of God on our lives.

Prayer

Loving God, You love us and created us to love in return. Help me to love more--to love better. I pray that you will continue to stir within my heart a desire to love my neighbors--and to reach out to the lost. Change me--help my focus be on You and loving and reaching those outside the church so that they can know You. Thank You for not letting me remain the same. It is because of Jesus that I can pray this--Amen.

Life Journal July 16, 2007
Today's readings: Isaiah 25-28; Hebrews 13

Only With Jesus' Help

Topic: Sacrificial Living

Scripture

"With Jesus' help, let us continually offer our sacrifice of praise to God by proclaiming the glory of his name. Don't forget to do good and to share what you have with those in need, for such sacrifices are very pleasing to God."

Hebrews 13.15-16 (NLT)

Observation

That without Jesus we have no sacrifice to offer--it is only because of His sacrifice, ours are acceptable.

Application

I often forget that the only reason that I can come before God is because of what Christ did for me. Otherwise, I would not be able to offer any sacrifice. Jesus made the ultimate sacrifice for me--it's amazing. And, it is because of His sacrifice that I am able to do any good and share with others. It is not a matter of "works" but rather, living a sacrificial life and pouring it all out for God. My "good deeds" and "sharing" are an outpouring or response to what He has done for me and His love that lives within me. When I sacrifice my life--giving myself totally to Him--He is then able to use me. His love is able to pour through me and touch others.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, I praise You for who You are. I worship You because You created me to worship You and because of what You have done for me. Lord, may Your name be glorified in all the earth. You alone are worthy of my praises. You alone created the world and the heavens and all that is in it. You created me. You loved me before I was born. You gave Your Son, Jesus, for me--a sinner--so I could live with You forever. May my life be a reflection of You. May You shine brightly through me. May my sacrifices be acceptable to You, O Lord. Thank You for loving me. It is in Jesus' name, my Savior, Redeemer, and Friend, that I pray this. Amen.

Life Journal 15 July 2007
Today's Readings: Isaiah 22-24; Hebrews 12

Discipline In Love

Topic: Growth

Scripture

And have you entirely forgotten the encouraging words

God spoke to you, his children? He said,

"My child, don't ignore it when the Lord disciplines you,

and don't be discouraged when he corrects you.

For the Lord disciplines those he love,

and he punishes those he accepts as his children."

As you endure this divine discipline,

remember that God is treating you as his own children.

Hebrews 12.5-7 (NLT)

Observation

We are God's children--and as with any child, we need to be disciplined. It is not discipline that is done out of anger, but out of a parent's love for their child--to teach us, mold us, grow us to be more and more like Jesus.

Application

As adults we don't like to be disciplined. We seem to think that discipline should only be for children. And yet, we act as children so often--demanding our own way, whining, throwing temper tantrums, and being disobedient. If God, our heavenly Father, let us go our own way, we would soon be out of control and lost. Allowing a child to be willful and to do whatever they want is not love. Love guides, protects, and disciplines.

It is not easy for me to watch my grandchildren being disciplined. And yet, I know that it is for their own good--so I keep quiet. And then I see the benefits of the discipline--they are a joy to be around--well behaved, good manners, thoughtful and considerate. When I see children who are not disciplined--I find that I am even more thankful that my daughter and son-in-law love them enough to help them become what God wants them to be.

While I don't always like it, I am glad that God loves me enough to discipline me. I want to grow and be the person he wants me to be--and I know I cannot do it on my own. I love being a child of the King!

Prayer

Father, thank You for loving me enough to discipline me. I pray that I would learn and grow from it. I know that I am sometimes rebellious, demanding my own way--thank You for saying no to me. Guide me, teach me, grow me into Your child--bringing a smile to Your face! In Jesus name, Amen.

Life Journal 14 July 2007
Today's readings: Isaiah 19-21; Hebrews 11

Faith Enough

Topic: Faith

Scripture

What is faith? It is the confident assurance that what we hope for is going to happen. It is the evidence of things we cannot yet see. . . . . So, you see, it is impossible to please God without faith. Anyone who wants to come to him must believe that there is a God and that he rewards those who sincerely seek him. . . . By fiath these people overthrew kingdoms, ruled with justice, and received what God had promised them. They shut the mouths of lions, quenched the flames of fire, and escaped death by the edge of the sword. Their weakness was turned to strength.

Hebrews 11.1, 6, 33-34 (NLT)

Observation

Faith is the foundation to all we believe and do. Without it, we have nothing.

Application

Real faith is lived out--not just something that we talk about. I may not see the end result, but I can trust God that his purpose will be accomplished--no matter how things appear. Faith is believing that God will do all that he has promised. Faith is trusting that it doesn't have to be my way or look how I think it needs to look to accomplish all that God has in mind.

Faith is persevering even when everything around me is telling me to quit. Faith is believing that God's Word is true.

Faith is passionate. Faith is not meant for setting on the sidelines--it is meant to be lived in the midst. Faith is active. Faith is not for the faint-of-heart. There is a price with faith. Faith means giving up my priorities for His.

Faith means waking up each morning and asking God (even before rising out of bed)--what do you have in store for us today? How can I serve You? How can I make a difference for You? Use me today!

Prayer

Father God, today fill me with faith. Help me to step-out and be used by You. Give me Your eyes and Your heart so I can live out my faith for You. Use me today! In Jesus name, Amen

Life Journal 3 July 2007
Life Journal readings today: Isaiah 6,7; 2 Chronicles 26, 27; Philemon

Letting Go

Topic: Forgiveness

Scripture: Philemon 10a

"show kindness to Onesimus."

Observation

In this short book Paul reminds us of our need to let go of those things that we hold against others--their "sins" against us, especially when they have accepted Jesus as their personal Savior.

Application (How will I be different today because of what I have just read?)

How often do I continue to hold on to others sins against me? It is so easy to do--too easy to do. Why do I refuse to let go of those things that someone does "against me" when they are a brother or sister in Christ? If Christ can forgive them (and has forgiven me for all the times I have sinned against Him) who am I not to forgive them. If Christ truly lives within me, as I claim He does, then I have to forgive others and let go of their sin(s) against me. By forgiving, I am not saying that what has happened is right or okay, but I am demonstrating the love of Christ at work in my life.

Who do I need to forgive today . . . . and welcome back into my life? Who do I need to reach out to and love with God's love? What brother or sister in Christ have I turned my back on--or turned against--that I need to forgive and ask them to forgive me for harboring these feelings?

Paul paints a clear picture of how we should treat those who have come into the family of God--even if they have sinned against us. He reminds us that God's family is about God and His forgiveness--it's not about us--and we need to get over ourselves.

Prayer

Father God, I would like to think that I do this pretty well, when, in truth, there are some that I hold on to hard feelings about. You have forgiven me for so much--help me to have Your heart and to forgive others . . . . and then to return to fellowship with them. Lord, help me to keep things about You--to take myself out of the picture, other than when you can use me as a vessel of your love and grace. Thank You for forgiving me. Thank You for loving me. In Jeus name, amen.

Life Journal 20 June 2007
Today's reading: 2 Kings 4, 5; Psalm 83; 1 Timothy 2

Salvation Is Meant For All

Topic: Salvation

". . . for he wants everyone to be saved and to understand the truth. For there is only one God and one Mediator who can reconcile God and people. He is the man Christ Jesus. He gave his life to purchase freedom for everyone. This is the message that God gave to the world at the proper time."

1 Timothy 2.4-6 (New Living Translation)

Observation

God made a way for each of us to be reconciled [to restore harmony between persons, especially between God and human beings] with Him through His Son, Jesus Christ. God loves each of us so much that He wishes that none should perish.

Application

I sometimes forget/even take for granted--so busy with life and serving God--the price that He paid for me so I could be in relationship with Him. . . and all because He loves me. Do I live my life in such a way that reflects that amazing love?? What can I do differently--how can I live differently and treat others in a way that they are drawn to Christ? My life needs to constantly point to Him.

Prayer

Father, thank You for loving me so much that You sent Your Son, Jesus, to pay the price for my sin so I can be reconciled to You. I am overwhelmed by Your love for me. May my life be a reflection of that love. In Jesus' name, amen.

Life Journal 14 June 2007
Today's readings: 1 Kings 15; 2 Chronicles 13, 14; Philippians 4

The Strength That I Need

Topic: Depending on God

For I can do everything with the help of Christ

who gives me the strength I need.

Philippians 4.13

Observation

God will supply all that I need through Christ to do whatever He asks me to do.

Application

I often find myself depending on my own strength to accomplish everything and anything. Often it is not until I get tired to struggling that I finally ask God to help. I tend to feel that I have to prove myself--and my capability on my own. How foolish. I make things so much harder for myself. It is hard to let go and allow God to take over--trusting Him to give me what I need to accomplish everything He asks. It is amazing how much more I can do . . . and how much better I do it when I depend on Christ to give me all the strength I need. I have nothing to prove--Jesus already did that for me. He is sufficient.

Prayer

Father, thank You for Your promise. I thank You that I can do everything--all things--with Christ's help because my strength is found in Him. Help me to remember it!! Thank You that You don't give up on me! In Jesus' name, amen.

Life Journal 12 June 2007

Living a Life That Shines

Topic: The Life of a Believer

For God is working in you, giving you the desire to obey him and the power to do what pleases him. In everything you do, stay away from complaining and arguing, so that no one can speak a word of blame against you. You are to live clean innocent lives as children of God in a dark world full of crooked and perverse people. Let your lives shine brightly before them.

Philippians 2.13-15 (New Living Translation)

Observation

God, through His Holy Spirit, works in us and through us so we can be a light to the world--God shining brightly from our God-filled lives.

Application (How will I be different today because of what I have just read?)

As I continue reading in Philippians, I am reminded that God does not expect us to obey Him and please Him on our own--we can't do it on our own. He gives us the desire and the power, through His Holy Spirit, to live the lives He calls us to--clean, innocent lives as children of the most High God. If we open ourselves to Him, we can shine brightly for Him in a dark world--pointing to Him, not ourselves. But, we have to do our part--we have to give our lives over to Him and allow Him to work in us--even when it is painful. We have to give up our desires and replace them with what He desires for us. Yet, it really isn't giving up anything, at least not anything of eternity importance . . . and what I gain is far more than anything that I give up. So, why is it so hard for me to let go of certain areas of my life when I know that the life He offers is so much better than the one I have? It is something that I wrestle with all the time. I realize that it is a journey . . . one where I must daily (and sometimes hourly--or even by the minute) lay down my life so that I can be who He has called me to be--so I can shine brightly for Him.

Prayer

Father God, I give You my life . . . again. Please open my eyes and my heart to those things that dim my "God-Light" and give me the strength and wisdom, through Your Holy Spirit, to overcome them. Strengthen my desire to obey You. Place within me the power to do what pleases You. In everything I do may I stay away from complaining and arguing. May I live a life that is clean and innocent as Your child. Lord, may I shine brightly for You in this dark world--lighting the path that leads to You. Thank You, Father. I love You and want to be wholly Yours. In Jesus name I pray, amen.

Life Journal 11 June 2007

A LIFE THAN REFLECTS JESUS
Topic: Living a Christian Life


May you always be filled with the fruit of your salvation—those good things that are produced in your life by Jesus Christ—for this will bring much glory and praise to God.
Philippians 1.11 (New Living Translation)

Observation
That if we truly are living a saved life then it will show—and God will be glorified in it and through it.

Application (or, How will I be different today because of what I just read?)
I have to ask myself some hard questions—am I producing good fruit that is God honoring? Can folks see that I am different because of my relationship with Jesus? Or am I like everyone else? Do I show more love and mercy? Am I more compassionate?
I would like to think I could answer these questions with a resounding “YES!”, but if I am honest—I have lots and lots of room for growth. And, some days I do better than others.
So, what makes the difference—why are some days more “fruitful” than others?? It’s certainly not because I don’t have what I need to make better God-honoring choices—it’s because I choose not to make them, for whatever reason.
One critical piece to the choices I make is my walk with God at the time—am I spending time in His Word, am I spending time in prayer (not just doing all the talking—but listening too), am I looking for opportunities to live out my faith, to love others, to serve others?? And even when I do those things—I don’t always make all the right choices. So, do I give up and quit trying?? By no means, I press on, always striving to make the right choices, accepting God’s gift of grace every day so I can live a grace-filled life, so that I can have a life filled with “the fruit of my salvation” and live a life that “will bring much glory and praise to God.”

Prayer
Father God, thank You for creating me and loving me so much that You sent Your Son, Jesus to save me. Lord, I want to always be filled with the fruit of my salvation. I want my life to overflow with good things that are produced by my life in Jesus. And, I want to bring You much glory and praise. Help me, Lord. I know that I cannot live this way on my own—only with Your help is it possible. Give me a heart after Your heart. Help me reflect You—and only You. Guide me in making the choices You would have me make. Strengthen me and give me wisdom. Again, thank You for Your great love and Your patience with me. I love You. In Jesus name I pray this, Amen.

Life Journal 10 June 2007

Preparation For the Battle

Topic: Spiritual Warfare

Be prepared. you're up against far more than you can handle on your own. Take all the help you can get, every weapon God has issued, so that when it's all over but the shouting you'll still be on your feet. Truth, righteousness, peace, faith, and salvation are more than words. Learn how to apply them. You'll need them throughout your life. God's Word is an indispensable weapon. In the same way, prayer is essential in this ongoing warfare. Pray hard and long.

Ephesians 6.13-18 (The Message)

Observation:

We are in a daily battle and need to be prepared to fight. We don't need to do it on our own, God has provided the weapons and tools we need--we just need to use them.

Application:

I realize that I often don't ask God for help with the battles--or even bother to use the tools and weapons He has given me. He has given me everything I need to do battle--why am I so slow to depend on Him and use all that He has given me? Then when the battle begins to turn against me I wonder where He is. I need to prepare every morning, even before I crawl out of bed, for what might come that day--taking advantage of all that God has for me. I do not need to go into battle alone. I am not on my own--He is always with me.

Prayer:

Father God, May I remember to prepare myself for battle before I go every morning and not try to do it on my own. Thank you that you have given me the armor I need for battle: the belt of truth and the body armor of God's righteousness. For shoes, may I put on the peace that comes from the Good news. Set on my head the helmet of salvation, as I take up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows that Satan aims at me, and remind me to pick up my sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. And may I remeber to pray at all times--staying alert and persistent in my prayers. Thank you that I do not battle on my own. Thank you for taking care of me, loving me, and protecting me. Thank you Father. Amen.