Life Journal, February 5, 2011

Life Journal, February 5, 2011
Today's readings: Exodus 39, 40; Psalm 15; Acts 12

BELIEVING FOR WHAT WE PRAY

Scripture

But while Peter was in prison, the church prayed very earnestly for him. . . .

When they finally opened the door and saw him, they were amazed.

Acts 12.5,16

Observation

When we pray, we should believe that God will answer.

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

Peter was put in prison. The church prayed earnestly for him. God rescued him--setting him free. He goes to the house where the believers are and they don't believe that it is him knocking on the door. When they finally do believe, and open the door and see him, we are told that they are amazed.

They prayed but didn't really believe that God would rescue Peter in a miraculous way. They were looking for the normal--not the miraculous.

So, how often to do pray believing that God will answer in a miraculous way?? I trust that He will answer my prayers, He promises He will. BUT, I don't really expect Him to do something extra-ordinary. I expect Him to do something ordinary and, if I am to be honest, to probably say no to my prayer.

We are told to pray--believing. But do I undermine my own prayers by not really believing?? I give God all kinds of outs--probably not His timing, might not be His will, . . . . God doesn't need us to make excuses for Him, He needs me to believe that He will answer--and answer miraculously. Nothing mundane for the Creator of the universe, nothing ordinary for the God who parted the Red Sea--He is the God of miracles.

So, I need to start believing this and living this way. I need to expect super-natural answers to prayers. I need to trust God with my prayers.

Prayer

Father God, forgive my lack of faith. Forgive me for being timid and not boldly coming before You and expecting You to answer my prayers. Lord, I am praying, believing that You are a God of miracles and that You hear my prayers and You answer them. Thank You for the prayers You are answering right now!!

Life Journal, February 4, 2011

Life Journal, February 4, 2011
Today's readings: Exodus 37,38; Psalm 19; Acts 11

DELIBERATE SIN

Scripture

How can I know all the sins lurking in my heart?

Cleanse me from these hidden faults.

Keep your servant from deliberate sins!
Don't let them control me.

Then I will be free of guilt

and innocent of great sin.
Psalm 19.12-13

Observation

We need to continually ask God to reveal our sins to us and repent--not allowing them to control us anymore.

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

I had really wanted to write about something different today. . . wanted there to be some other truth that God wanted me to learn from. But, this is what He has for me today.

Deliberate sin--I really don't like to think this is something that I am guilty of, but I am. Much more so than I would like to admit. I will be ready to do something or say something and God nudges me . . . and sometimes I go ahead and do it or say it--knowing full well that I shouldn't. Deliberate sin.

I continue with habits that do not glorify God. Some people would probably even argue that they really aren't sin--but they are. Anything that I do that I know that I shouldn't is sin. And unluckily, there is more of that in my life than I would like to admit.

It is part of dying to myself and being made new in Christ. Most of my deliberate sin comes from my rebellion and unwillingness to tell myself "NO!". Like a small child I stomp my foot and do what I want--even though I know it is not what God wants.

So today . . . wow, that's a hard one. Will I tell myself "no"? Will I allow God to continue to shine light on the dark places in my life--my sin? Will I repent and seek to do what God wants me to do rather than what I want to do? Am I willing to take the steps necessary so that what God wants in my life is what I want in my life?

Hard questions and hard things to do--but I do not do them alone and powerless--God is with me and sends His Holy Spirit to give me the power to do it. That gives me hope . . . that I will be able to take the steps I need to take and allow Him to speak truth into my life and shine light on my sins. I will turn my deliberate sins over to Him and allow Him to conquer them, because I cannot do it on my own. We are more than conquerers through Him!

Prayer

Father God, forgive me for not making the changes You have called me to make. Forgive my rebellion--help me Lord to turn from my old sin-filled ways to You and the Light. Lord, I know I can't do it on my own, I haven't yet and know that I can't do it without Your power and strength. Thank You for never giving up on me and loving me through it all. So, Lord change me so that, "May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing to you, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer." [Psalm 19.14]

Life Journal, February 3, 2011

Life Journal, February 3, 2011
Today's Readings: Exodus 35, 36; Acts 10

NO FAVORITISM

Scripture

But God has shown me that I should no longer think of anyone as impure or unclean. . . .

Then Peter replied, "I see very clearly that God shows no favoritism. In every nation he accepts those who fear him and do what is right."

Acts 10. 28b, 34-35

Observation

The ground is level at the foot of the cross.

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

A much need reminder that it not my "job" to decide who deserves to hear the Good News of Jesus Christ. The message is open for everyone/anyone who receives it.

Prayer

Lord, forgive me for all the times that I judge someone's worthiness to receive the gift of grace. You came and lived and died and was resurrected--not just for me, but for everyone. Father God, help me to be a welcoming servant. Help me to share Your Good News with everyone, trusting that You will decide who will hear it and who won't. Thank You for Your love for me!

Life Journal, February 2, 2011

Life Journal, February 2, 2011
Today's Readings: Exodus 32-34; Psalm 16; Acts 9

CHANGED

Scripture

Meanwhile, Saul was uttering threats with every breath and was eager to kill the Lord's followers. . . .

As he was approaching Damascus on this mission, a light from heaven suddenly shone down around him. He fell to the ground and heard a voice saying to him, "Saul! Saul! Why are you persecuting me?"

"Who are you, lord?" Saul asked.

And the voice replied, "I am Jesus, the one you are persecuting! No get up and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do." . . .

But the Lord said, "Go, for Saul is my chosen instrument to take my message to the Gentiles and to kings, as well as to the people of Israel." . . . .

Saul stayed with the believers in Damascus for a few days. And immediately he began preaching about Jesus in the synagogues, saying, "He is indeed the Son of God!"

Acts 9. 1, 3-6, 15, 19b-20

Observation

No one is beyond the grace found in Christ Jesus.

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

The story of Saul/Paul is a great reminder that no one is beyond the reach of God. Anyone's heart can be changed. It is not my place to decide whether someone is beyond salvation or not--that is God's work. I am only called to share the Good News of Jesus with everyone and then put it in God's hands!

All the women and men that come into the center that are LDS are not out of the reach of the saving grace of Jesus. Each of them can have their hearts changed in an instant. God has given me the opportunity to be used to share His amazing love with each one!

Prayer

Thank You Lord for the opportunity that You give me every day to be Your Light in a very dark world. Lord God, I would pray that the scales would drop from their eyes so that they may see Your truth. Open their eyes and hearts to Your gift of love and salvation. Use me Lord to bring Your Good News and speak truth into their lives! Thank You Jesus!!

Life Journal, February 1, 2011

Life Journal, February 1, 2011
Today's readings: Exodus 30-32; Acts 8

INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE SABBATH

Scripture

The Lord then gave these instructions to Moses: "Tell the people of Israel: 'Be careful to keep my Sabbath day, for the Sabbath is a sign of the covenant between me and you from generation to generation. It is given so you may know that I am the Lord, who makes you holy. You must keep the Sabbath day, for it is a holy day for you. Anyone who desecrates it must be put to death; anyone who works on that day will be cut off from the community. You have six days each week for your ordinary work, but the seventh day must be a Sabbath day of complete rest, a holy day dedicated to the Lord. Anyone who works on the Sabbath must be put to death. The people of Israel must keep the Sabbath day by observing it from generation to generation. This is a covenant obligation for all time. It is a permanent sign of my covenant with the people of Israel. For in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, but on the seventh day he stopped working and was refreshed.'"

Exodus 31.12-17

Observation

The Sabbath is to be set aside as a day of complete rest and dedicated to God.

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

I don't think God could make this any clearer . . . so why is it something that is just ignored. We do not keep the Sabbath--no matter what day we see as the Sabbath in our week. How different would I be--how different would life be if we (all believers) truly observed a Sabbath. Maybe there would be less stress. Maybe we would have time to remember what is important--people in our lives--not work and achievements and money.

I feel guilty if I take time to do nothing. The world has taught me that I need to be in constant motion if I am going to be successful. But, that's not what God teaches me.

It is clear that the Sabbath is important to God and therefore it should be important to me. It is to be a day to focus on God and what He has blessed us with. If I want to take God's teaching seriously--that includes His teaching on the Sabbath.

Prayer

Father God, I don't keep Your Sabbath. Forgive me for not being willing to set aside time just for You. May I learn the value and importance of keeping the Sabbath. Help me to set aside time for You and time to renew and refresh, so I can be the person You have called me to be. Maybe if I gave You the day You asked for I wouldn't be so tired all the time. Thank You Lord.

Life Journal, January 31, 2011

Life Journal, January 31, 2011
Today's readings: Exodus 28, 29; Acts 7

PRAYING FOR THOSE WHO WOULD KILL ME

Scripture

Then they [the high priest and other religious leaders] put their hands over their ears and began shouting. They rushed at him [Stephen] and dragged him out of the city and began to stone him. His accusers took off their coats and laid them at the feet of a young man named Saul.

As they stoned him, Stephen prayed, "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit." He fell to his knees, shouting, "Lord, don't charge them with this sin!" And with that he died.

Acts 7.57-60

Observation

Stephen reflected Jesus, even unto death.

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

Even in the midst of being stoned, Stephen forgave those who were throwing the stones. The only way that would be possible, is to so be filled with Jesus and the Holy Spirit that there would be no room for me. That means I have to get out of the way.

Stephen, we are told, was "a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit." [Acts 6.5] He was "a man full of God's grace and power, performed amazing miracles and signs among the people." [Acts 6.8]

In other words, He had died to himself and was raised new in Christ. He was filled with the Holy Spirit and alive in Christ.

I don't face physical death as Stephen did. I don't have stones being thrown at me. But, at times I do have people throw words at me that are meant to wound and sometimes even kill the spirit. How will I respond? Will I throw words back, hoping to hit my mark? Or will I allow the Spirit to work in me and pray for them? Will I reflect Christ in this small way? Am I willing to die to myself so I can be so filled with Christ and the Holy Spirit that my first and "supernatural" reaction is to forgive and pray for them?

Stephen reflected Christ--and only Christ. May I do the same.

Prayer

Father God, I can't do this on my own. I need Your Spirit, Your grace, Your power. Only when I allow myself to be emptied can I be filled with You. And only then, can I truly reflect You. Father, in all circumstances--no matter what someone says or does to me--I want to be so filled with You that I act/react in a way that points only to You and brings You honor and glory. Fill me with more of You!

Life Journal, January 30, 2011

Life Journal, January 30, 2011
Today's readings: Exodus 25-27; Acts 6

ACCEPTING RESPONSIBILITY

Scripture

But as the believers rapidly multiplied, there were rumblings of discontent. The Greek-speaking believers complained about the Hebrew-speaking believers, saying that their widows were being discriminated against in the daily distribution of food.

Acts 6.1

Observation

There is always something to be discontent about--even for believers.

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

As I read the Scripture, I knowingly was shaking my head thinking--church folks always find something to be unhappy about. That's why I have a problem with church--nobody is happy, everybody finds something to whine and complain about.

Then God slaps me up the back of the head and points out that I am complaining and whining about church . . . the very thing that breaks my heart about church. I am just as guilty as everyone else and help to make church as miserable as everyone else. I watch others and judge them--I judge whether I think they are worshiping or not, whether they are acting appropriate or not, whether they are reverent enough . . . sadly, the list goes on and on.

What would happen if I just went to church to just worship God?!?! What if I didn't even notice others (other than to say hello, smile and be friendly)? What if instead of complaining about how the service is done, the music, the preaching, etc., I went and put my entire focus on God? What if I was determined to worship, to enjoy the service, to rejoice, to be so filled with God's Spirit that it just over-flowed that I didn't pay attention to what I was allowing to distract me from why I am there?

Instead of blaming others I have to accept responsibility for my time with God. Maybe if my attitude was different then I would act differently and my experience might be different.

Today as I go to church, I will go and not worry about or judge anyone or anything else--I will go to worship my Jesus. Imagine that!

Prayer

Lord forgive me. May I go to church today with an open heart to worship You and You alone. Help me to focus on what is truly important--You! Help me to not complain or judge and not make the service about me. I am the problem Lord, not others. If I can't worship it is no one elses fault but my own. No excuses. Today I go to worship You!!

Life Journal, January 29, 2011

Life Journal, January 29, 2011
Today's readings: Exodus 23, 24; Psalm 14; Acts 5

WORTHY TO SUFFER

Scripture

They called in the apostles and had them flogged. Then they ordered them never again to speak in the name of Jesus, and they let them go.

The apostles left the high council rejoicing that God had counted them worthy to suffer disgrace for the name of Jesus. And every day, in the Temple and from house to house, they continued to teach and preach this message: "Jesus is the Messiah."

Acts 5. 40-42

Observation

The apostles rejoiced in being flogged/beaten because that meant that God counted them worthy to suffer for Jesus.

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

I read those verses and I am amazed. Would I rejoice for being beaten for Jesus? I don't even like to have people talk badly about me--let alone be beaten.

I guess as I reread it, they didn't rejoice over the beating, but rejoiced that God had counted them worthy to suffer disgrace for the name of Jesus. Still . . . . I don't know that I could do that. Then I have to ask myself, does that mean that Jesus does not mean enough to me that I am willing to suffer disgrace--or anything else--for Him?? Ouch. I would want to believe that He would.

If I am honest, the thought of suffering doesn't excite me. . . and I don't seem to do it very well. Is that because I am so wrapped up in myself and so self-centered that I don't believe I deserve it? The very things that I talk against--I am guilty of. Imagine that.

So, what that means is that I have not died to myself yet. I have not allowed God to consume me through His Holy Spirit. If I am still that concerned about myself, then I am not concerned enough with God. I have a lot more work to do--or rather, God has a lot more work to do in me.

Today, I will continue to give more and more of my life over to God, allowing Him to fill me more and more. Maybe one day I will be able to, along with the apostles, rejoice that God has counted me worthy to suffer disgrace for the name of Jesus.

Prayer

Lord God, today's lesson was a hard one. It shines the light on all the areas in my life that I have not given over to You. Forgive me Father for holding on so tightly to life and not giving it over completely to You. Take it God. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit. Help me to rejoice in all circumstances--especially when I am given the privilege to suffer for the name of Jesus.

Life Journal, January 28, 2011

Life Journal, January 28, 2011
Today's readings: Exodus 21, 22; Psalm 12; Acts 4

BE BOLD

Scripture

". . . And now, O Lord, hear their threats, and give us, your servants, great boldness in preaching your word. Stretch out your hand with healing power; may miraculous signs and wonders be done through the name of your holy servant Jesus."

After this prayer, the meeting place shook and they were filled with the Holy Spirit. Then they preached the word of God with boldness.

Acts 4.29-31

Observation

God heard their prayer and answered it through the power of the Holy Spirit.

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

WOW! That needs to be our prayer everyday. . . and then expect it to be answered.

But, it requires that we be willing to be used by God in amazing and supernatural ways and that we are willing to preach the Word of God with boldness. Nothing changes if we do not allow God to change us and use us. We must open ourselves up to the Holy Spirit and be willing to be bold.

Not as easy as it sounds. Afterall, what will others say?!?!

That is why we are called to die to ourselves--then it won't matter what others think.

So, today, I pray the prayer of the disciples and ask for Your Holy Spirit. I ask that You use me in miraculous ways and that I share/preach the word of God with boldness.

Prayer

"O Sovereign Lord, Creator of heaven and earth, the sea, and everything in them--you spoke long ago by the Holy Spirit through our ancestor David, your servant saying, 'Why were the nations so angry? Why did they waste their time with futile plans? The kings of the earth prepared for battle; the rulers gathered together against the Lord and against his Messiah.'

"In fact, this has happened here in this very city! For Herod Antipas, Pontius Pilate the governor, the Gentiles, and the people of Israel were all united against Jesus, your holy servant, whom you anointed. But everything they did was determined beforehand according to your will. And now, O Lord, hear their threats, and give us, your servants, great boldness in preaching your word. Stretch out your hand with healing power; may miraculous signs and wonders be done through the name of your holy servant Jesus." May it be so, Lord.

Life Journal, January 27, 2011

Life Journal, January 27, 2011
Today's readings: Exodus 17-20; Acts 3

KEEPING THE SABBATH HOLY

Scripture

[God speaking] "Remember to observe the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. You have six days each week for your ordinary work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath day of rest dedicated to the Lord your God. On that day no one in your household may do any work. This includes you, your sons and daughters, your male and female servants, your livestock, and any foreigners living among you. For in six days the Lord made the heavens, the earth, the sea, and everything in them; but on the seventh day he rested. That is why the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and set it apart as holy."

Exodus 20.8-11

Observation

Observing the Sabbath and keeping it holy is one of the Ten Commandments.

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

One of God's commandments that I often overlook. I wonder why it has become so unimportant to us?

Where I live now, in Orem where it is 90+% Mormon, most of the stores and many of the restaurants are closed on Sunday. The Mormon's do work at keeping the Sabbath. I don't know what they do with their day, but for the most part they don't go out and shop, etc. It's funny what a shock it was to me to see the mall closed on Sunday.

So how do I see the Sabbath?? I tend to see it as any other day and do pretty much whatever I want. Oh, I go to church and have my quiet time, but that's it. What should my Sabbath look like? What am I to do with my time that helps in making/keeping the Sabbath holy??

I am commanded by God to keep the Sabbath, to sit it aside, to make it Holy. It is not something that is just going to happen, but something I must be intentional about.

I think there are some things that I can do on my Sabbath that help to make it a Holy day. Time with friends can make it holy. Time just being can make it holy. It is about resting in God and focusing on Him.

My Sabbath should not look like any other day--it needs to be set apart . . . as God commanded. So, I am going to work at being intentional with my Sabbath--at giving the day to God and listening and watching what He would have me do with it. I want to be faithful to His commands and this is one of them. If I want to please God, then I must keep all 10 commandments, not just the ones that are easy.

Prayer

Father God, forgive me for what I have done to the Sabbath--how I ignore it and make it just like any other day. You have called for me to sit it aside and make it Holy--so that means I need to fill it with You! Help me be aware of what I am doing. Help me to make it Holy--show me what it is You want me to do . . . or what You don't want me to do. May I make You Lord of my Sabbath!

Life Journal, January 26, 2011

Life Journal, January 26, 2011
Today's readings: Exodus 14-16; Acts 2

A SHORT MEMORY

Scripture

As Pharaoh approached, the people of Israel looked up and panicked when they saw the Egyptians overtaking them. They cried out to the Lord, and they said to Moses, "Why did you bring us out here to die in the wilderness? Weren't there enough graves for us in Egypt? What have you done to us? Why did you make us leave Egypt? Didn't we tell you this would happen while we were still in Egypt? We said, 'Leave us alone! Let us be slaves to the Egyptians. It's better to be a slave in Egypt than a corpse in the wilderness!'"

Exodus 14.10-12

Then the people complained and turned against Moses.

Exodus 15.24

There, too, the whole community of Israel complained about Moses and Aaron.

Exodus 16.2

The Lord asked Moses, "How long will these people refuse to obey my commands and instructions?

Exodus 16.28

Observation

Even though God had answered their cries for help and freed them from the Egyptians, even though they had crossed the Red Sea on dry land (saving them from the Egyptians), even though God brought them to safety . . . they complained and whined. When anything difficult came at them they "forgot" all that God had done and was doing for them.

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

I read all that God did for the community of Israel--all the miracles He performed, freeing them from Pharoah, the parting of the Red Sea, the angel that led them, the pillars of cloud and fire that led them and protected them, the manna and quail--and I wonder how they could forget all that He did so quickly and cry out against God and refuse to obey His commands and instructions.

Then I look in a mirror. How quickly I forget God's faithfulness and His miracles in my life. How quickly I question God and whine because things aren't going my way. How quickly I feel sorry for myself. What a short memory I have!

So, today, I will remember what God has done for me when I feel myself slipping into old habits of whining and forgetting. Today, I will choose to obey God's commands and instructions . . . not using what I perceive as difficult circumstances as an excuse not to. Today I will celebrate God's work in my life--all of it, whether I like what He is doing or not.

Prayer

Father God, please forgive my short memory. You do so much for me, Your faithfulness is beyond measure, and yet I am never satisfied--I am constantly whining and blaming and forgetting. Today, Lord, I choose to remember and celebrate and obey. Thank You for Your patience with me!! Thank You for not giving up on me and putting up with all my whining and questioning. Thank You for loving me enough to discipline me and guide me and sending Your Son Jesus!

Life Journal, January 25, 2011

Life Journal, January 25, 2011
Today's readings: Exodus 12, 13; Psalm 21; Acts 1

ACTIVE WAITING

Scripture

So when the apostles were with Jesus, they kept asking him, "Lord, has the time come for you to free Israel and restore our kingdom?"

He replied, "The Father alone has the authority to set those dates and times, and they are not for you to know. But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere--in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth."

After saying this, he was taken up into a cloud while they were watching, and they could no longer see him. As they strained to see him rising into heaven, two white-robed men suddenly stood among them. "Men of Galilee," they said, "why are you standing here staring into heaven? Jesus has been taken from you into heaven, but someday he will return from heaven in the same way you saw him go."

Acts 1.6-11

Observation

We have been given the Holy Spirit so that we might be witnesses for Jesus throughout the world until He returns.

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

The apostles were ready for their job to be done--they were ready for Christ's Kingdom to come. But Jesus tells them (and us) that there is work to be done until that time and that God, the Father, is sending us the Holy Spirit so we can do it. We aren't to sit back, twiddling our thumbs waiting for Christ's return--we are to walk in the power of the Holy Spirit telling about Jesus.

So, first of all, am I depending on and walking in the power of the Holy Spirit and not my own? I cannot do it in my own "strength" and "wisdom." I must depend on the Holy Spirit.

Next, am I sharing the Good News as I wait for Christ's return--am I being faithful to what He has called and commanded me to do?? If I try to do it on my own, I will fail--but if I do it with the Holy Spirit at work in me and through me, I will not fail!

I need to take inventory of what I am doing and how I am doing it--and then turn to the Holy Spirit to fill me and lead me and use me to accomplish all that God has for me to do . . . and not sit idly by waiting for Christ's return.

Prayer

Father God, thank You for the Holy Spirit. Fill me anew with Your Spirit today. Use me today! Give me the words and a boldness to be Your witness!! Thank You Father!!

Life Journal, January 24, 2011

Life Journal, January 24, 2011
Today's Readings: Exodus 9-11; Luke 24

MISSING JESUS

Scripture

As they walked along they were talking about everything that had happened. As they talked and discussed these things, Jesus himself suddenly came and began walking with them. But God kept them from recognizing him. . . .

As they sat down to eat, he took the bread and blessed it. Then he broke it and gave it to them. Suddenly, their eyes were opened, and they recognized him.

Luke 24.14-16, 30-31

Observation

They didn't expect to see Jesus and didn't recognize Him when He was in their midst.

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

How often do I miss Jesus because I don't expect to see Him??

So, today, I will keep my eyes and my heart open and actively look for Jesus--knowing that He appear differently than I might expect and show up in unexpected places!

Prayer

Lord, I don't want to miss You--so open my eyes and let me see You!! Open my heart to Your Spirit, so I don't miss You!! Surprise me today! Thank You Jesus!!

Life Journal, January 23, 2011

Life Journal, January 23, 2011
Today's readings: Exodus 6-8; Luke 23

WHAT WILL I DO WITH THIS JESUS?

Scripture

When they came to a place called The Skull, they nailed him to the cross.

Luke 23.33a

Observation

Jesus was crucified for me.

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

Jesus, the Messiah, gave His life willingly for me. I often take that for granted. But, when I stop and really think about it . . . what my sin cost Him . . . I have a choice to make. I must choose to follow Him with my whole life or not. There is no middle ground--I either give my life over to Him or I don't. He didn't just die a little for my sins--He died a horrible and painful death for my sins. So, I must decide what I am going to do with this Jesus. Do I turn my life over to him . . . or not? Do I die to myself so I can have life in Him?? Do I make Him Lord of my life??

Today, I must decide what and who takes precedence in my life. Will it be Jesus?? YES!

Prayer

Father, today I choose Jesus.

Life Journal, January 22, 2011

Life Journal, January 22, 2011
Today's readings: Exodus 3-5; Luke 22

PICK SOMEONE ELSE

Scripture

But Moses again pleaded, "Lord, please! Send anyone else."

Exodus 4.13

Observation

Moses didn't want to do what God was asking him to do.

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

What am I saying "no" to God about that He is asking me to do??

I have argued and pleaded and begged at different times in the past for God to use someone else--send someone else. So, is there something that God is asking me to do that I am saying "no" to??
I need to be careful what I agree to do and what I beg-off from doing and make sure that either way that they are what God would have me do. Doing what God wants me to do--no matter what--is all that should matter. If I have truly turned my life over to Him--I will say, "Here I am" with no strings attached.

I need to be still and listen, I need to quiet myself and watch. God will direct me and I need to be ready to say "Here I am Lord, send me!"

Prayer

Lord, I want you to be able to count on me--I don't want to be found pleading for you to find someone else. I want to be the one who does and goes and serves. Use me. Send me. I give myself to You. Help me to hear You and see where You lead me. Thank You for not giving up on me.

Life Journal, January 21, 2011

Life Journal, January 21, 2011
Today's readings: Exodus 1, 2; Psalm 88; Luke 21

GIVING EVERYTHING

Scripture

While Jesus was in the Temple, he watched the rich people dropping their gifts in the collection box. Then a poor widow came by and dropped in two small coins.

"I tell you the truth," Jesus said, "this poor widow has given more than all the rest of them. For they have given a tiny part of their surplus, but she, poor as she is, has given everything she has."

Luke 21.1-4

Observation

It's not about giving our 10%--it's about giving it all.

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

We whine at giving 10% and have many excuses why we cannot give that much. But, we are called to give everything . . . not just 10%.

So, the question is, do I give it all to God?? I need a place to live--so I have to pay rent. But, do I use my "house" as an offering to God--do I use it for hospitality, Bible study, making a home for someone in need? Do I give it all?

My Jeep--do I use it for God? Do I give rides to those who need them? Do I take things to people who have no way to get them?

Do I trust God enough with all that I have that He will take care of me? That's the bottom line. Am I willing to do without something that I really don't need so I can do for someone else?? Am I willing to give EVERYTHING to Him?

If I give my 10%, I'm really not giving anything. Jesus asks for it all--all our money, all we have, all of us. He doesn't just want a piece of us--He wants every tiny bit of us.

So, today . . . wow--this is not easy. Am I really willing to turn it ALL over to God and to trust Him with it all. Am I willing to say "no" to myself so I can fully say YES to God? Today, I am willing and ready to begin the journey. Today, I will remember who it all belongs to and I will not hold on to it tightly, but will open my hands so God can take it and use it. Today, it is ALL His!

Prayer

Father God, I am not fooling You or me--I know it sounds easier than it is. But, I do want to give it all to You and I want the freedom that comes in trusting You with everything I have and with me. I realize that I will have to give it to You over and over--please help me to let go--help me to open my hands. Pry my fingers up so I can release all that I hold on to so tightly. Remove the fear that causes me to cling so to what I have. I put my full trust in You. Thank You!

Life Journal, January 20, 2011

Life Journal, January 20, 2011
Today's readings: Genesis 49, 50; Psalm 8; Luke 20

ACCEPTING RESPONSIBILITY

Scripture

O Lord, our Lord, your majestic name fills the earth!

Your glory is higher than the heavens.

You have taught children and infants to tell of your strength,

silencing your enemies and all who oppose you.

When I look at the night sky and see the work of your fingers--

the moon and the starts you set in place--

what are mere mortals that you should think about them,

Human beings that you should care for them?

Yet you made them only a little lower than God

and crowned them with glory and honor.

You gave them charge of everything you made,

putting all things under their authority--

the flocks and the herds

and all the wild animals,

the birds in the sky, the fish in the sea,

and everything that swims the ocean currents.

O Lord, our Lord, your majestic name fills the earth!

Psalm 8.1-9

Observation

God, who created everything, cares for us and we are charged with taking care of all that He has given us.

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

I have to admit that I don't give much thought to the world around me and my responsibility toward it. I take it for granted and leave the responsibility for creation (land, animals, etc.) to the "tree huggers."

Today's Scripture reminds me that it is also my responsibility. He has put us in charge over the earth and we are to take care of it. I have a responsibility to do my part.

The earth and all that is on it is not to be taken for granted. Today, I will recognize and do my part.

Prayer

Father God, please forgive me for taking Your creation for granted and leaving the responsibility for the care and well-being of it to others. Show me what I need to do--help me to do my part. Thank You for all that You created and for caring for me so much.

Life Journal, January 19, 2011

Life Journal, January 19, 2011
Today's readings: Genesis 47, 48; Psalm 10; Luke 19

SEEKING THE LOST

Scripture

[Jesus speaking] "For the Son of Man came to seek and save those who are lost."

Luke 19.10

Observation

We are to seek out the lost--not just merely wait for them to come to us.

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

Zacchaeus is one of my very favorite Bible stories. Everytime I read it I see a new lesson for me--and this time was no different.

Jesus came "to seek and save those who are lost." It was not passive--He went and looked for them. In the case of Zacchaeus, it was a matter of looking up in a tree. But, I cannot miss the fact that Jesus saw Zacchaeus up in the tree. There were enough people there that Zacchaeus had to climb a tree to see Jesus--so there had to be a lot going on and lots of people. But Jesus took time to notice Zacchaeus in the tree. He was looking for the lost.

It is easy for me to get busy in everyday life and miss the lost that God puts in my path. I don't necessarily look up into the trees, so to speak, for them. If I were to be honest, sometimes I don't want to see them--it takes time to seek the lost and spend time with them.

But, that is what I am called to do. If it was Jesus' "mission statement" it should be mine--I should be about the business of seeking the lost and pointing them to Jesus, in whom they can find salvation.

So, today, I will look and seek out those who are lost. I will engage them and let them know that Jesus cares enough to have seen them and offer them salvation.

Prayer

Father God, open my eyes today to those you send along my way. I pray that Your mission would become mine--give me a heart for the lost. Give me the words that I need to share the Good News. Thank You for the opportunity to join You in Christ's mission.

Life Journal, January 18, 2011

Life Journal, January 18, 2011
Today's readings: Genesis 44-46; Luke 18

DOWNSIZE TIME

Scripture

Once a religious leader asked Jesus this question: "Good Teacher, what should I do to inherit eternal life?"

"Why do you call me good?" Jesus asked him. "Only God is truly good. But to answer your question, you know the commandments. 'You must not commit adultery. You must not murder. You must not steal. You must not testify falsely. Honor your father and mother.'"

The man replied, "I've obeyed all these commandments since I was young."

When Jesus heard his answer, he said, "There is still one thing you haven't done. Sell all your possessions and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me."

But when the man heard this he became very sad, for he was very rich.

Luke 18.18-23

Observation

To follow Jesus we must be willing to give up anything and everything that stands between us and Him.

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

For the rich young man--his wealth stood between him and Jesus. He wasn't willing to "pay the cost" to follow Jesus.

What is Jesus asking me to get rid of in my life so that I can fully follow Him? What is getting in the way?? Is it all the "stuff" I own?? What do I put before Him??

There is freedom in getting rid of the "stuff" that weighs me down. . . so why do I hold on to it?? My hands need to always be open--so I can receive from God and freely let go of everything. It is in letting go of everything that I can truly have everything that matters.

I look around me and see lots of stuff--too much stuff. I need to simplify so I can be free to follow Jesus.

So, today, I will begin the process of letting go to all that holds me back from freely following Jesus.

Prayer

Lord, I know many of the things that hold me back from fully following You--help me to recognize those thing that I "don't see" and that hinder me from following. I want the freedom that comes in letting go. Help me to keep my hands open--not just so I can receive--but so things can pass through me and onto others who have need. Lord, I don't want to be like the rich young man who isn't willing to give up whatever I need to to follow you. I want to do whatever it takes. Thank You, Lord for Your Word for me today.

Life Journal, January 17, 2011

Life Journal, January 17, 2011
Today's readings: Genesis 42, 43; Psalm 5; Luke 17

NOT JUST CLEANSED--BUT HEALED

Scripture

As Jesus continued on toward Jerusalem, he reached the border between Galilee and Samaria. As he entered a village there, ten lepers stood at a distance, crying out, "Jesus, Master, have mercy on us!"

He looked at them and said, "Go show yourselves to the priests." And as they went, they were cleansed of their leprosy.

One of them, when he saw that he was healed, came back to Jesus, shouting, "Praise God!" He fell to the ground at Jesus' feet, thanking him for what he had done. This man was a Samaritan.

Jesus asked, "Didn't I heal ten men? Where are the other nine? Has no one returned to give glory to God except this foreigner?" And Jesus said to the man, "Stand up and go. Your faith has healed you."

Luke 17.11-19

Observation

A thankful spirit brings healing.

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

Ten with leprosy--all were cleansed--one was thankful and was healed.

When God answers a prayer do I bother to be thankful . . . or do I feel entitled and therefore see no reason to say thank you?? Or am I just too lazy or too busy to say thank you?? Am I truly thankful??

Unluckily, it becomes easy to get in the habit of not saying thank you. When was the last time I received a thank you note, let alone a verbal thank you, for something I had done? Not that I do it for the thank you . . . it's just nice to know that it was appreciated.

If I feel that way, how must God feel when He does for us and gives to us and the words out of our mouths are ones that say it's not enough--we want more . . . rather than Thank You--Praise You God! God doesn't need our thanks, our thanks/praise to Him are actually for us. We see in the story of the lepers that the one that came back, that returned to give thanks--was healed. So, when we don't give thanks . . . we miss the healing God has for us. It might be a spiritual healing, an emotional healing, a mental healing, or a physical healing. . . .but we miss all that God has for us because we don't stop and recognize what He has done for us.

I don't give God thanks/praise so I can get more from Him, but I do it because I can't help myself--I have to do it. And in that surrender, I find healing.

Prayer

Thank You God for today's lesson. Thank You for all You do for me. Thank You for opening my eyes to Your truth and the importance of thanking You and praising You. To You and You alone belongs all praise! May I give thanks in ALL things. Change me Lord!