Today's Reading
Ezekiel. "Suddenly, the glory of the God of Israel appeared from the east...I fell face down on the ground." The Bible has several examples of people seeing the glory of God. In each case, their reaction was one of deep awe and awareness of their own sinfulness. How do you think you would react? As you read this passage carefully, I think you will be awestruck at the glory of the Lord and what it means that we can know Him intimately.
James. About thirty years ago, I met a boy named Refugio. Refugio was from deep in the interior of Mexico. He was sixteen and he had a problem: his parents were both deceased. His older brother was a drug addict and his older sister had three children to care for. Refugio had a younger brother and sister with no one to care for them if he didn't do something. After sleeping under cardboard during cold, winter nights in Nogales, Mexico, he took the risk and crossed into the U.S. They made their way on foot up into the mountains of central, eastern Arizona and got a job on a large farm. After working for several weeks, they got word that the farmer, instead of paying them, was calling the authorities to come and pick them up and deport them. "Hear the cries of the field workers whom you have cheated of their pay. The wages you held back cry out against you. The cries of those who harvest your fields have reached the ears of the Lord of Heaven’s Armies."
Psalms. We begin Psalm 119 again. May it be the cry of our hearts! "5 Oh, that my actions would consistently
reflect your decrees!"
Proverbs. As a teen, I did the wild friend thing. I can testify to truth of this verse.
What speaks to you today?
Showing posts with label James. Show all posts
Showing posts with label James. Show all posts
Wednesday, November 21, 2012
Tuesday, November 20, 2012
November 20
Today's Reading
Ezekiel was being given an architect's tour of the Temple. Everything had a purpose and it was large. The Most Holy Place -- the throne room of the Lord -- was 1225 square feet! Ezekiel must have been in awe. Between here and the end of the book, it just keeps getting better and better. Hang on!
James. "3 And even when you ask, you don’t get it because your motives are all wrong—you want only what will give you pleasure." I lay awake the other night and thought about what earth must be like from God's perspective. Can you imagine the cacophony of voices, each crying out to Him for something? Yes, some are giving Him praise. Some are repenting. Some are interceding for the needs of someone else, including the need of salvation. Some are crying out for God to heal their child or their spouse. Some are crying out for grace to walk through a terrible ordeal. Some are asking God for enough food to get them through the day. Some are praying for protection from an oppressive government. But how many times have my prayers been, "God, could I get that new iPad? Or that car? Or that television?" It breaks my heart to imagine it!
Psalms. "29 Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good!
His faithful love endures forever." Pondering what I wrote above, this verse amazes and blesses me beyond words.
Proverbs. Standing up to the wicked is part of our calling. Just be sure that you are standing based on God's Word and not your prejudices.
What are your thoughts today?
Ezekiel was being given an architect's tour of the Temple. Everything had a purpose and it was large. The Most Holy Place -- the throne room of the Lord -- was 1225 square feet! Ezekiel must have been in awe. Between here and the end of the book, it just keeps getting better and better. Hang on!
James. "3 And even when you ask, you don’t get it because your motives are all wrong—you want only what will give you pleasure." I lay awake the other night and thought about what earth must be like from God's perspective. Can you imagine the cacophony of voices, each crying out to Him for something? Yes, some are giving Him praise. Some are repenting. Some are interceding for the needs of someone else, including the need of salvation. Some are crying out for God to heal their child or their spouse. Some are crying out for grace to walk through a terrible ordeal. Some are asking God for enough food to get them through the day. Some are praying for protection from an oppressive government. But how many times have my prayers been, "God, could I get that new iPad? Or that car? Or that television?" It breaks my heart to imagine it!
Psalms. "29 Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good!
His faithful love endures forever." Pondering what I wrote above, this verse amazes and blesses me beyond words.
Proverbs. Standing up to the wicked is part of our calling. Just be sure that you are standing based on God's Word and not your prejudices.
What are your thoughts today?
Monday, November 19, 2012
November 19
Today's Reading
Ezekiel's description of the carnage following the defeat of Gog's forces is horrible. The idea of cleaning up body parts for seven months is almost beyond imagination, even in the day we have shows like Bones and CSI on television. The scene changes then and Ezekiel is given the dimensions of a new Temple to be built. As we shall see from here to the end of the book, the Temple is probably the one in which the Lord himself will occupy.
James. Do right and demonstrate your faith. Watch your tongue, but beware: it can't fully be tamed. Be careful of jealousy and selfish ambition: they come from the pit. James knew how to hit pretty hard, didn't he?
Psalms. Life for God's people tends to be full of conflicts and trials. The enemy of our souls constantly seeks ways to bring us down. But we have an answer! "8 It is better to take refuge in the Lord
than to trust in people.
9 It is better to take refuge in the Lord
than to trust in princes."
Proverbs. "2 When there is moral rot within a nation, its government topples easily.
But wise and knowledgeable leaders bring stability." That's the very reason we need to turn from our own wickedness, seek His face and pray for Him to revive this nation.
What thoughts do you have?
Ezekiel's description of the carnage following the defeat of Gog's forces is horrible. The idea of cleaning up body parts for seven months is almost beyond imagination, even in the day we have shows like Bones and CSI on television. The scene changes then and Ezekiel is given the dimensions of a new Temple to be built. As we shall see from here to the end of the book, the Temple is probably the one in which the Lord himself will occupy.
James. Do right and demonstrate your faith. Watch your tongue, but beware: it can't fully be tamed. Be careful of jealousy and selfish ambition: they come from the pit. James knew how to hit pretty hard, didn't he?
Psalms. Life for God's people tends to be full of conflicts and trials. The enemy of our souls constantly seeks ways to bring us down. But we have an answer! "8 It is better to take refuge in the Lord
than to trust in people.
9 It is better to take refuge in the Lord
than to trust in princes."
Proverbs. "2 When there is moral rot within a nation, its government topples easily.
But wise and knowledgeable leaders bring stability." That's the very reason we need to turn from our own wickedness, seek His face and pray for Him to revive this nation.
What thoughts do you have?
Sunday, November 18, 2012
November 18
Today's Reading
Ezekiel. When everything looks hopeless, God offers new life. The word picture of breathing life into the dry bones is descriptive of what happens when a spiritually lifeless sinner receives Jesus. Wow!
If, as Joel Rosenberg has written (and I agree with him), Magog is Moscow (or Russia, in a more general sense), Ezekiel 38 is a gripping prophetic picture of conflicts to come and God's miraculous intervention.
James. Where do I begin? Hmmmm, let's see. My anger won't fix the world. If I can't control my tongue, my religion is worthless. I'm to care about and for the poor, including widows and orphans. Oh, and I'm not to show favor to the rich and famous. I must be merciful. Why? Because faith without good works is useless!
Psalms 117. I learned this little Psalm as a praise chorus many years ago. It comes back and rings in my head every time I read it. That's a great way to memorize Scripture! I recently read a page correcting a common internet error about the middle chapter of the Bible. Psalm 117 is actually the middle chapter. While I don't think it is some secret message, I think it's beautiful that the Bible, which begins with, "In the beginning, God..." and ends with, "May the grace of our Lord Jesus be with God's holy people," has such such encouragement and promise in the middle.
Proverbs. The godly are bold for the name and honor of Him!
What is speaking to you today?
Ezekiel. When everything looks hopeless, God offers new life. The word picture of breathing life into the dry bones is descriptive of what happens when a spiritually lifeless sinner receives Jesus. Wow!
If, as Joel Rosenberg has written (and I agree with him), Magog is Moscow (or Russia, in a more general sense), Ezekiel 38 is a gripping prophetic picture of conflicts to come and God's miraculous intervention.
James. Where do I begin? Hmmmm, let's see. My anger won't fix the world. If I can't control my tongue, my religion is worthless. I'm to care about and for the poor, including widows and orphans. Oh, and I'm not to show favor to the rich and famous. I must be merciful. Why? Because faith without good works is useless!
Psalms 117. I learned this little Psalm as a praise chorus many years ago. It comes back and rings in my head every time I read it. That's a great way to memorize Scripture! I recently read a page correcting a common internet error about the middle chapter of the Bible. Psalm 117 is actually the middle chapter. While I don't think it is some secret message, I think it's beautiful that the Bible, which begins with, "In the beginning, God..." and ends with, "May the grace of our Lord Jesus be with God's holy people," has such such encouragement and promise in the middle.
Proverbs. The godly are bold for the name and honor of Him!
What is speaking to you today?
Saturday, November 17, 2012
November 17
Today's Reading
Ezekiel. 25 “Then I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you will be clean. Your filth will be washed away, and you will no longer worship idols. 26 And I will give you a new heart, and I will put a new spirit in you. I will take out your stony, stubborn heart and give you a tender, responsive heart.[c] 27 And I will put my Spirit in you so that you will follow my decrees and be careful to obey my regulations." If your heart is hard, is it because you have never received a new heart like God promised and made available through Jesus Christ? Or have you received a new heart, but stopped God's process of changing your character? Either, way, my prayer for you is that you receive and live a life consistent with a new heart.
James is a letter that wasn't universally received in the early church. As early church leaders met to debate, pray and determine which writings should be considered a part of God's Holy Word, James was controversial. Some liked his emphasis on outward works. Others felt that he was in direct conflict with Paul's teaching of salvation by grace through faith alone. They finally admitted James into the canon with the argument that Paul was describing justification before God, which is by faith. James described justification before men, which is by works.
Chapter 1 begins with a discussion of God's desire as to what happens when we go through trials: He wants them to grow our endurance. Hills, heat, cold, wind, and sand are all trials to runners. Running through them can create significant endurance.
Psalms. Difficulties will either drive you to God or away from Him. You choose!
Proverbs. Jesus warned against what He called "hirelings". True shepherds care for the sheep; hirelings just want a paycheck. It's another "attitude check" for me as a pastor.
What is speaking to you today?
Ezekiel. 25 “Then I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you will be clean. Your filth will be washed away, and you will no longer worship idols. 26 And I will give you a new heart, and I will put a new spirit in you. I will take out your stony, stubborn heart and give you a tender, responsive heart.[c] 27 And I will put my Spirit in you so that you will follow my decrees and be careful to obey my regulations." If your heart is hard, is it because you have never received a new heart like God promised and made available through Jesus Christ? Or have you received a new heart, but stopped God's process of changing your character? Either, way, my prayer for you is that you receive and live a life consistent with a new heart.
James is a letter that wasn't universally received in the early church. As early church leaders met to debate, pray and determine which writings should be considered a part of God's Holy Word, James was controversial. Some liked his emphasis on outward works. Others felt that he was in direct conflict with Paul's teaching of salvation by grace through faith alone. They finally admitted James into the canon with the argument that Paul was describing justification before God, which is by faith. James described justification before men, which is by works.
Chapter 1 begins with a discussion of God's desire as to what happens when we go through trials: He wants them to grow our endurance. Hills, heat, cold, wind, and sand are all trials to runners. Running through them can create significant endurance.
Psalms. Difficulties will either drive you to God or away from Him. You choose!
Proverbs. Jesus warned against what He called "hirelings". True shepherds care for the sheep; hirelings just want a paycheck. It's another "attitude check" for me as a pastor.
What is speaking to you today?
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
November 22, Day 326
This is one of those times we are greatly assisted by reading chronologically. Tomorrow we will read in Acts about a large controversy in the early church. The controversy will be debated among Apostles and Elders in the Jerusalem church. Finally, one man will speak and everyone else will follow what he says. His name was James and he was the half-brother of Jesus. Today, as you read the book bearing his name, you will see some of the reasons he became the leader of the Jerusalem church. What's amazing is that he didn't believe Jesus to be the messiah until after the resurrection.
Sunday, November 21, 2010
November 21
Today's Reading
Ezekiel. "Suddenly, the glory of the God of Israel appeared from the east...I fell face down on the ground." The Bible has several examples of people seeing the glory of God. In each case, their reaction was one of deep awe and awareness of their own sinfulness. How do you think you would react? As you read this passage carefully, I think you will be awestruck at the glory of the Lord and what it means that we can know Him intimately.
James. About thirty years ago, I met a boy named Refugio. Refugio was from deep in the interior of Mexico. He was sixteen and he had a problem: his parents were both deceased. His older brother was a drug addict and his older sister had three children to care for. Refugio had a younger brother and sister with no one to care for them if he didn't do something. After sleeping under cardboard during cold, winter nights in Nogales, Mexico, he took the risk and crossed into the U.S. They made their way on foot up into the mountains of central, eastern Arizona and got a job on a large farm. After working for several weeks, they got word that the farmer, instead of paying them, was calling the authorities to come and pick them up and deport them. "Hear the cries of the field workers whom you have cheated of their pay. The wages you held back cry out against you. The cries of those who harvest your fields have reached the ears of the Lord of Heaven’s Armies."
Psalms. We begin Psalm 119 again. May it be the cry of our hearts! "5 Oh, that my actions would consistently
reflect your decrees!"
Proverbs. As a teen, I did the wild friend thing. I can testify to truth of this verse.
What speaks to you today?
Saturday, November 20, 2010
November 20
Today's Reading
Ezekiel was being given an architect's tour of the Temple. Everything had a purpose and it was large. The Most Holy Place -- the throne room of the Lord -- was 1225 square feet! Ezekiel must have been in awe. Between here and the end of the book, it just keeps getting better and better. Hang on!
James. "3 And even when you ask, you don’t get it because your motives are all wrong—you want only what will give you pleasure." I lay awake the other night and thought about what earth must be like from God's perspective. Can you imagine the cacophony of voices, each crying out to Him for something? Yes, some are giving Him praise. Some are repenting. Some are interceding for the needs of someone else, including the need of salvation. Some are crying out for God to heal their child or their spouse. Some are crying out for grace to walk through a terrible ordeal. Some are asking God for enough food to get them through the day. Some are praying for protection from an oppressive government. But how many times have my prayers been, "God, could I get that new iPod? Or that car? Or that television?" It breaks my heart to imagine it!
Psalms. "29 Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good!
His faithful love endures forever." Pondering what I wrote above, this verse amazes and blesses me beyond words.
Proverbs. Standing up to the wicked is part of our calling. Just be sure that you are standing based on God's Word and not your prejudices.
What are your thoughts today?
Friday, November 19, 2010
November 19
Today's Reading
Ezekiel's description of the carnage following the defeat of Gog's forces is horrible. The idea of cleaning up body parts for seven months is almost beyond imagination, even in the day we have shows like Bones and CSI on television. The scene changes then and Ezekiel is given the dimensions of a new Temple to be built. As we shall see from here to the end of the book, the Temple is probably the one in which the Lord himself will occupy.
James. Do right and demonstrate your faith. Watch your tongue, but beware: it can't fully be tamed. Be careful of jealousy and selfish ambition: they come from the pit. James knew how to hit pretty hard, didn't he?
Psalms. Life for God's people tends to be full of conflicts and trials. The enemy of our souls constantly seeks ways to bring us down. But we have an answer! "8 It is better to take refuge in the Lord
than to trust in people.
9 It is better to take refuge in the Lord
than to trust in princes."
Proverbs. "2 When there is moral rot within a nation, its government topples easily.
But wise and knowledgeable leaders bring stability." That's the very reason we need to turn from our own wickedness, seek His face and pray for Him to revive this nation.
What thoughts do you have?
Thursday, November 18, 2010
November 18
Today's Reading
Ezekiel. When everything looks hopeless, God offers new life. The word picture of breathing life into the dry bones is descriptive of what happens when a spiritually lifeless sinner receives Jesus. Wow!
If, as Joel Rosenberg has written (and I agree with him), Magog is Moscow (or Russia, in a more general sense), Ezekiel 38 is a gripping prophetic picture of conflicts to come and God's miraculous intervention.
James. Where do I begin? Hmmmm, let's see. My anger won't fix the world. If I can't control my tongue, my religion is worthless. I'm to care about and for the poor, including widows and orphans. Oh, and I'm not to show favor to the rich and famous. I must be merciful. Why? Because faith without good works is useless!
Psalms 117. I learned this little Psalm as a praise chorus many years ago. It comes back and rings in my head every time I read it. That's a great way to memorize Scripture! I recently read a page correcting a common internet error about the middle chapter of the Bible. Psalm 117 is actually the middle chapter. While I don't think it is some secret message, I think it's beautiful that the Bible, which begins with, "In the beginning, God..." and ends with, "May the grace of our Lord Jesus be with God's holy people," has such such encouragement and promise in the middle.
Proverbs. The godly are bold for the name and honor of Him!
What is speaking to you today?
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
November 17
Today's Reading
Ezekiel. 25 “Then I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you will be clean. Your filth will be washed away, and you will no longer worship idols. 26 And I will give you a new heart, and I will put a new spirit in you. I will take out your stony, stubborn heart and give you a tender, responsive heart.[c] 27 And I will put my Spirit in you so that you will follow my decrees and be careful to obey my regulations." If your heart is hard, is it because you have never received a new heart like God promised and made available through Jesus Christ? Or have you received a new heart, but stopped God's process of changing your character? Either, way, my prayer for you is that you receive and live a life consistent with a new heart.
James is a letter that wasn't universally received in the early church. As early church leaders met to debate, pray and determine which writings should be consider a part of God's Holy Word, James was controversial. Some liked his emphasis on outward works. Others felt that he was in direct conflict with Paul's teaching of salvation by grace through faith alone. They finally admitted James into the canon with the argument that Paul was describing justification before God, which is by faith. James described justification before men, which is by works.
Chapter 1 begins with a discussion of God's desire as to what happens when we go through trials: He wants them to grow our endurance. Hills, heat, cold, wind, and sand are all trials to runners. Running through them can create significant endurance.
Psalms. Difficulties will either drive you to God or away from Him. You choose!
Proverbs. Jesus warned against what He called "hirelings". True shepherds care for the sheep; hirelings just want a paycheck. It's another "attitude check" for me as a pastor.
What is speaking to you today?
Saturday, November 21, 2009
November 21
Today's Reading
Ezekiel. "Suddenly, the glory of the God of Israel appeared from the east...I fell face down on the ground." The Bible has several examples of people seeing the glory of God. In each case, their reaction was one of deep awe and awareness of their own sinfulness. How do you think you would react?
James. About thirty years ago, I met a boy named Refugio. Refugio was from deep in the interior of Mexico. He was sixteen and he had a problem: his parents were both deceased. His older brother was a drug addict and his older sister had three children to care for. Refugio had a younger brother and sister with no one to care for them if he didn't do something. After sleeping under cardboard during cold, winter nights in Nogales, Mexico, he took the risk and crossed into the U.S. They made their way on foot up into the mountains of central, eastern Arizona and got a job on a large farm. After working for several weeks, they got word that the farmer, instead of paying them, was calling the authorities to come and pick them up and deport them. "Hear the cries of the field workers whom you have cheated of their pay. The wages you held back cry out against you. The cries of those who harvest your fields have reached the ears of the Lord of Heaven’s Armies."
Psalms. We begin Psalm 119 again. May it be the cry of our hearts! "5 Oh, that my actions would consistently
reflect your decrees!"
Proverbs. As a teen, I did the wild friend thing. I can testify to truth of this verse.
What speaks to you today?
Ezekiel. "Suddenly, the glory of the God of Israel appeared from the east...I fell face down on the ground." The Bible has several examples of people seeing the glory of God. In each case, their reaction was one of deep awe and awareness of their own sinfulness. How do you think you would react?
James. About thirty years ago, I met a boy named Refugio. Refugio was from deep in the interior of Mexico. He was sixteen and he had a problem: his parents were both deceased. His older brother was a drug addict and his older sister had three children to care for. Refugio had a younger brother and sister with no one to care for them if he didn't do something. After sleeping under cardboard during cold, winter nights in Nogales, Mexico, he took the risk and crossed into the U.S. They made their way on foot up into the mountains of central, eastern Arizona and got a job on a large farm. After working for several weeks, they got word that the farmer, instead of paying them, was calling the authorities to come and pick them up and deport them. "Hear the cries of the field workers whom you have cheated of their pay. The wages you held back cry out against you. The cries of those who harvest your fields have reached the ears of the Lord of Heaven’s Armies."
Psalms. We begin Psalm 119 again. May it be the cry of our hearts! "5 Oh, that my actions would consistently
reflect your decrees!"
Proverbs. As a teen, I did the wild friend thing. I can testify to truth of this verse.
What speaks to you today?
Friday, November 20, 2009
November 20
Today's Reading
Ezekiel was being given an architect's tour of the Temple. Everything had a purpose and it was large. The Most Holy Place -- the throne room of the Lord -- was 1225 square feet! Ezekiel must have been in awe. Between here and the end of the book, it just keeps getting better and better. Hang on!
James. "3 And even when you ask, you don’t get it because your motives are all wrong—you want only what will give you pleasure." I lay awake the other night and thought about what earth must be like from God's perspective. Can you imagine the cacophony of voices each crying out to Him for something. Yes, some are giving Him praise. Some are repenting. Some are interceding for the needs of someone else, including the need of salvation. Some are crying out for God to heal their child or their spouse. Some are crying out for grace to walk through a terrible ordeal. Some are asking God for enough food to get them through the day. Some are praying for protection from an oppressive government. But how many times have my prayers been, "God, could I get that new iPod? Or that car? Or that television?" It breaks my heart to imagine it!
Psalms. "29 Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good!
His faithful love endures forever." Pondering what I wrote above, this verse amazes and blesses me beyond words.
Proverbs. Standing up to the wicked is part of our calling. Just be sure that you are standing based on God's Word and not your prejudices.
What are your thoughts today?
Ezekiel was being given an architect's tour of the Temple. Everything had a purpose and it was large. The Most Holy Place -- the throne room of the Lord -- was 1225 square feet! Ezekiel must have been in awe. Between here and the end of the book, it just keeps getting better and better. Hang on!
James. "3 And even when you ask, you don’t get it because your motives are all wrong—you want only what will give you pleasure." I lay awake the other night and thought about what earth must be like from God's perspective. Can you imagine the cacophony of voices each crying out to Him for something. Yes, some are giving Him praise. Some are repenting. Some are interceding for the needs of someone else, including the need of salvation. Some are crying out for God to heal their child or their spouse. Some are crying out for grace to walk through a terrible ordeal. Some are asking God for enough food to get them through the day. Some are praying for protection from an oppressive government. But how many times have my prayers been, "God, could I get that new iPod? Or that car? Or that television?" It breaks my heart to imagine it!
Psalms. "29 Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good!
His faithful love endures forever." Pondering what I wrote above, this verse amazes and blesses me beyond words.
Proverbs. Standing up to the wicked is part of our calling. Just be sure that you are standing based on God's Word and not your prejudices.
What are your thoughts today?
Thursday, November 19, 2009
November 19
Today's Reading
Ezekiel's description of the carnage following the defeat of Gog's forces is horrible. The idea of cleaning up body parts for seven months is almost beyond imagination, even in the day we have shows like Bones and CSI on television. The scene changes then and Ezekiel is given the dimensions of a new Temple to be built. As we shall see from here to the end of the book, the Temple is probably the one in which the Lord himself will occupy.
James. Do right and demonstrate your faith. Watch your tongue, but beware: it can't fully be tamed. Be careful of jealousy and selfish ambition: they come from the pit. James knew how to hit pretty hard, didn't he?
Psalms. Life for God's people tends to be full of conflicts and trials. The enemy of our souls constantly seeks ways to bring us down. But we have an answer! "8 It is better to take refuge in the Lord
than to trust in people.
9 It is better to take refuge in the Lord
than to trust in princes."
Proverbs. "2 When there is moral rot within a nation, its government topples easily.
But wise and knowledgeable leaders bring stability." That's the very reason we need to turn from our own wickedness, seek His face and pray for Him to revive this nation.
What thoughts do you have?
Ezekiel's description of the carnage following the defeat of Gog's forces is horrible. The idea of cleaning up body parts for seven months is almost beyond imagination, even in the day we have shows like Bones and CSI on television. The scene changes then and Ezekiel is given the dimensions of a new Temple to be built. As we shall see from here to the end of the book, the Temple is probably the one in which the Lord himself will occupy.
James. Do right and demonstrate your faith. Watch your tongue, but beware: it can't fully be tamed. Be careful of jealousy and selfish ambition: they come from the pit. James knew how to hit pretty hard, didn't he?
Psalms. Life for God's people tends to be full of conflicts and trials. The enemy of our souls constantly seeks ways to bring us down. But we have an answer! "8 It is better to take refuge in the Lord
than to trust in people.
9 It is better to take refuge in the Lord
than to trust in princes."
Proverbs. "2 When there is moral rot within a nation, its government topples easily.
But wise and knowledgeable leaders bring stability." That's the very reason we need to turn from our own wickedness, seek His face and pray for Him to revive this nation.
What thoughts do you have?
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
November 18
Today's Reading
Ezekiel. When everything looks hopeless, God offers new life. The word picture of breathing life into the dry bones is descriptive of what happens when a spiritually lifeless sinner receives Jesus. Wow!
If, as Joel Rosenberg has written (and I agree with him), Magog is Moscow (or Russia, in a more general sense), Ezekiel 38 is a gripping prophetic picture of conflicts to come and God's miraculous intervention.
James. Where do I begin? Hmmmm, let's see. My anger won't fix the world. If I can't control my tongue, my religion is worthless. I'm to care about and for the poor, including widows and orphans. Oh, and I'm not to show favor to the rich and famous. I must be merciful. Why? Because faith without good works is useless!
Psalms 117. I learned this little Psalm as a praise chorus many years ago. It comes back and rings in my head every time I read it. That's a great way to memorize Scripture!
Proverbs. The godly are bold for the name and honor of Him!
What is speaking to you today?
Ezekiel. When everything looks hopeless, God offers new life. The word picture of breathing life into the dry bones is descriptive of what happens when a spiritually lifeless sinner receives Jesus. Wow!
If, as Joel Rosenberg has written (and I agree with him), Magog is Moscow (or Russia, in a more general sense), Ezekiel 38 is a gripping prophetic picture of conflicts to come and God's miraculous intervention.
James. Where do I begin? Hmmmm, let's see. My anger won't fix the world. If I can't control my tongue, my religion is worthless. I'm to care about and for the poor, including widows and orphans. Oh, and I'm not to show favor to the rich and famous. I must be merciful. Why? Because faith without good works is useless!
Psalms 117. I learned this little Psalm as a praise chorus many years ago. It comes back and rings in my head every time I read it. That's a great way to memorize Scripture!
Proverbs. The godly are bold for the name and honor of Him!
What is speaking to you today?
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
November 17
Today's Reading
Ezekiel. 25 “Then I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you will be clean. Your filth will be washed away, and you will no longer worship idols. 26 And I will give you a new heart, and I will put a new spirit in you. I will take out your stony, stubborn heart and give you a tender, responsive heart.[c] 27 And I will put my Spirit in you so that you will follow my decrees and be careful to obey my regulations." If your heart is hard, is it because you have never received a new heart like God promised and made available through Jesus Christ? Or have you received a new heart, but stopped God's process of changing your character? Either, way, my prayer for you is that you receive and live a life consistent with a new heart.
James is a letter that wasn't universally received in the early church. As early church leaders met to debate, pray and determine which of the writings they had were part of God's Holy Word, James was controversial. Some liked his emphasis on outward works. Others felt that he was in direct conflict with Paul's teaching of salvation by grace through faith alone. They finally admitted James into the canon with the argument that Paul was describing justification before God, which is by faith. James described justification before men, which is by works.
Chapter 1 begins with a discussion of God's desire as to what happens when we go through trials: He wants them to grow our endurance. Hills, heat, cold, wind, and sand are all trials to runners. Running through them can create significant endurance.
Psalms. Difficulties will either drive you to God or away from Him. You choose!
Proverbs. Jesus warned against what He called "hirelings". True shepherds care for the sheep hirelings just want a paycheck. It's another "attitude check" for me as a pastor.
What is speaking to you today?
Ezekiel. 25 “Then I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you will be clean. Your filth will be washed away, and you will no longer worship idols. 26 And I will give you a new heart, and I will put a new spirit in you. I will take out your stony, stubborn heart and give you a tender, responsive heart.[c] 27 And I will put my Spirit in you so that you will follow my decrees and be careful to obey my regulations." If your heart is hard, is it because you have never received a new heart like God promised and made available through Jesus Christ? Or have you received a new heart, but stopped God's process of changing your character? Either, way, my prayer for you is that you receive and live a life consistent with a new heart.
James is a letter that wasn't universally received in the early church. As early church leaders met to debate, pray and determine which of the writings they had were part of God's Holy Word, James was controversial. Some liked his emphasis on outward works. Others felt that he was in direct conflict with Paul's teaching of salvation by grace through faith alone. They finally admitted James into the canon with the argument that Paul was describing justification before God, which is by faith. James described justification before men, which is by works.
Chapter 1 begins with a discussion of God's desire as to what happens when we go through trials: He wants them to grow our endurance. Hills, heat, cold, wind, and sand are all trials to runners. Running through them can create significant endurance.
Psalms. Difficulties will either drive you to God or away from Him. You choose!
Proverbs. Jesus warned against what He called "hirelings". True shepherds care for the sheep hirelings just want a paycheck. It's another "attitude check" for me as a pastor.
What is speaking to you today?
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