Today's Reading: Psalm 75
We thank you, O God! We give thanks because you are near. People everywhere tell of your wonderful deeds. God says, "At the time I have planned, I will bring justice against the wicked. When the earth quakes and its people live in turmoil, I am the one who keeps its foundations firm.
"I warned the proud, 'Stop your boasting!' I told the wicked, 'Don't raise your fists! Don't raise your fists in defiance at the heavens or speak such arrogance.' " For no one on earth-from east to west, or even from the wilderness-should raise a defiant fist. It is God alone who judges; he decides who will rise and who will fall. For the Lord hold a cup in his hand that is full of foaming wine mixed with spices. He pours out the wine in judgement, and all the wicked must drink it, draining it to the dregs.
But as for me, I will always proclaim what God has done; I will sing praises to the God of Jacob. For God says,"I will break the strength of the wicked, but I will increase the power of the godly."
Asaph praises God in verse 1 and explains that God is the one in control of all things in verse 3. He is proclaiming the future judgement of the wicked at the hand of God. For God is the one true Judge. Asaph ends this psalm with praise. He says that as for him, he is going to proclaim the things God has done, sharing God's love and power with all. If you were Asaph, seeing all the wickedness itn the world, which happens not only to be the case for Asaph then but also for us now, how would you respond, in silence continuing on with you life or proclaiming God's love and mercy as well as the wonderful things He has done for you and around you?
Power Verse:
A man's steps are directed by the Lord. --Proverbs 20:24
Thought for the Day:
In this live we will encounter hurts and trials that we will not be able to change; we are just going to have to let them change us. --Ron Lee Davis
Today's Reading: Psalm 74
In this psalm, the world around Asaph and the other believers is crumbling and burning to nothing but ash. The enemies of the Lord, those who would not believe, have destroyed the temple, having burned it to the ground. Now they are destroying all the places where God is worshipped, which in that time was people's homes not just buildings that sat empty except on Sundays.
Asaph was watching the whole city of Jerusalem come to ruin. His answer was to seek God through the cloud of dust and debris. He pleads with God telling Him what is going on. Although God sees and knows all, He still wants us to pour out our hearts to Him. Then Asaph switches gears, talking about God's strength and how the entire world belongs to Him. In essence, he is telling God that since He is strong enough to make day and night, Asaph is hoping that God will use that strength to rescue His people. He ends the chapter with the words from verses 20-23: Remember your covenant promises, for the land is full of darkness and violence! Don't let the downtrodden be humiliated again. Instead, let the poor and needy praise your name. Arise, O God, and defend your cause. Remember how those fools insult you all day long. Don't overlook what your enemies have said or their growing uproar.
In the midst of all the drama that comes with living in this world, when all the things in your world seem to be falling in around you, where do you turn? Do you try to distract yourself from the turmoil by drinking, smoking or something else? Do you turn to friends to vent your frustrations about your situations? There is an ULTIMATE FRIEND who is dying, or rather has died and rose again, just to hear your thoughts and help you through whatever is going on in your life. Will you turn to Him? Will you have a conversation with Him today? He longs to sit and listen. He is ready, are you?
Words of Wisdom:
A faith that hasn't been tested can't be trusted. --Adriane Rogers
Doubt is not the opposite of faith; it is one element of faith. --Paul Tillich
Faith is not shelter against difficulties, but belief in the face of all contradictions. --Paul Tournier
Today's Reading: Psalm 73- A psalm of Asaph
Asaph was the recorder to Hezekiah, a Levitical musician and psalmist. He was, according to I Chronicles 6:39, a song leader in the temple; he sang and played cymbals in I Chronicles 15:17-19; and he was chief minister before the ark to invoke, give thanks and praise to the Lord. He was a seer in 2 Chronicles 29:30. So he was well prepared and definitely qualified to write a psalm or two.
Asaph begins with praise in verse 1: Truly God is good to Israel, to those whose hearts are pure. Then he tells us about himself. He has slipped. He has sinned and he tells us that his sin was envy of the rich and proud. He envied how they prospered despite their wickedness, how they seemed to live such painless lives and were healthy. He envied their seeming lack of problems unlike those around them who are overcome with problems. He heard them talking to others, who were dismayed and confused and who were eager to hear the rich people's words. These proud rich people told those down cast listeners these words: "What does God know?" they ask. "Does the Most High even know what's happening?" Sounds familiar doesn't it? We hear this a lot in our time. (Verses 2-12)
It's nice to know that there were others even in David's time going through the same things we go through today. Asaph continues. He is questioning his choices. (Verses 13-18) Did I keep my heart pure for nothing? I get nothing but trouble all day long; every morning brings me pain. If I had spoken this way to others, I would have been a traitor to your people. So I tried to understand why the wicked prosper. But what a difficult task it is! Such a valid point especially in today's society! Asaph went with his feelings and questions to the temple and prayed. God showed him the destiny of the wicked. Truly, you put them on a slippery path and send them sliding over the cliff to destruction. Don't misunderstand this verse. God doesn't choose to destroy his children. He wants us all to come home to Him in heaven. But we make the choices, it is free will after all. Then we pay the consequences for such choices. If you live a life ignoring all the doors God opens for you that lead to a better understanding and loving knowledge of Him and His love, then you in essence have destroyed yourself through your choices.
In verse 21, Asaph realizes his bitterness, his inner conflict, his foolish ignorance. He tells God that he must have seemed like a senseless animal to Him. That is exactly how we are when we make the wrong choices, we just have to realize it and come back to God. Asaph realizes that God hasn't left him even in his "stupid times." That is the same with us. God never leaves us no matter what kind of bad choices we make. Asaph shares that realization with us in verse 23: Yet I still belong to you; you hold my right hand. You guide me with your counsel, leading me to a glorious destiny. I love the words he uses in verses 26-28: My health may fail, and my spirit may grow weak, but God remains the strength of my heart, he is mine forever. Those who desert him will perish, for you destroy those who abandon you. But as for me, how good it is to be near God! I have made the Sovereign Lord my shelter, and I will tell everyone about the wonderful things you do.
No matter the choices you have made in life, good or bad, you can always come home to God. He is waiting for you. He misses you and like the prodigal son, He will welcome you with open arms and bring you back into the fold of His love. All you have to do is come home.
Power Verses:
2 Timothy 3:16-17
All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work.
Romans 13:12
The night is almost gone; the day of salvation will soon be here. So remove your dark deeds like dirty clothes, and put on the shining armor of right living.
I haven't written lately. Been busy planning a birthday party for my now two-year old son, Samuel. It is hard to believe that the time has gone this fast. Two whole years. Wow! It was a hard pregnancy with him. We were told that he could possibly have learning disabilities due to some excess fluid in the ventricles in his brain. That was a time of some deep and continuous prayer. I don't wish that anyone who is pregnant would have to go through what we went through during that time in our lives. But through all the prayers and time spent reading and waiting on test results, God had His hand on Samuel. Today, Samuel doesn't talk much but honestly, who could get a word in edge-wise with his brother, Shayne, who never seems to stop talking. Samuel understands a whole lot. He definitely knows how to communicate. God has blessed us by guiding us through that phase in our lives and the best part is we have a beautifully handsome boy to show for it. Praise God.
The reading for today is Psalm 72. It is a psalm of Solomon though I believe it to be the words of David. Solomon states this in the last verse of the chapter. Verse 20: This ends the prayers of David son of Jesse. This psalm is a prayer for prosperity, hope for the future and God's guidance as David passes on and Solomon takes his place as king. It is a prayer not only for the king to prosper but also the people and even the fields. David is praying a blessing on all that God has given him. He ends the chapter with praise: Verse 18-19: Praise the Lord God, the God of Israel, who alone does such wonderful things. Praise his glorious name forever! Let the whole earth be filled with his glory. Amen and amen!
May we always be in a state of prayer for our children whether they be three or thirty-three with a family of their own. It is the prayers of a parent's heart, placed in God's hands, that He uses to make miracles happen. A parent's love becomes infinite in the Father's hands. The prayer of David was exactly that, an expression of pure love for his son and the hope of prosperity for all who would live under Solomon's rule. Don't believe God answers a parent's prayers, check out I Kings chapters 1-3. God does grant David's request. He will do the same for you and your children. All you have to do is ask.
Thought for the Day:
"It is a delightful and profitable occupation to mark the hand of God in the lives of ancient saints, and to observe His goodness in delivering them, His mercy in pardoning them, and His faithfulness in keeping His covenant with them. But would it not be even more interesting and profitable for us to mark the hand of God in our own lives? Ought we not to look upon our own history as being at least as full of God, as full of His goodness and of His truth, as much a proof of His faithfulness and veracity, and the lives of those who have gone before? Let us review our own lives. Surely in these memories we will discover incidents refreshing to ourselves and glorifying to our God."
--Charles Spurgeon
Power Verses:
Luke 11:9-10
And so I tell you, keep on asking and you will receive what you asked for. Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks, receives. Everyone who seeks, finds. And to everyone who knocks, the door will be open.
Isaiah 46:9-10
"Do not forget the things I have done throughout history. For I am God--I alone!....Only I can tell you what is going to happen even before it happens. Everything I plan will come to pass."
Today's Reading: Psalm 69
David is in a state of despair; he's cried so much his eyes are swollen, he's exhausted and he feels like he's drowning (he is suffering from severe depression). His enemies are telling lies to destroy him.
David admits he has sinned. He knows God sees all so he confesses in verse 5: O God, you know how foolish I am; my sins cannot be hidden from you. He says in verse 6: Don't let those who trust in you be ashamed because of me, O Sovereign Lord of Heaven's Armies. Don't let me cause them to be humiliated, O God of Israel. In other words, don't let my mistakes become stumbling blocks for other believers.
David switches gears in verse 9: Passion for your house consumed me, and the insults of those who insult you have fallen on me. David's passion for God has been renewed by the confession of his sins. He is no longer wallowing in regret but is made new by the cleansing power of the confession.
He continues to say that he is being made fun of, Verse 10-11: When I weep and fast, they scoff at me. When I dress in burlap to show sorrow, they make fun of me. He is being talked about and even the town drunks have made up songs about him. When you turn your life around, asking forgiveness for your past sins, like David, there are going to be people who don't understand. It is their lack of understanding that causes them to criticize and mock. Don't give in to such ridicule. Tell them the reason for your new outlook on life. Pray that they come to understand and have a change of heart, coming to Christ as well. Jesus tells us in Matthew 5:43-45 to do this: "You have heard that it was said, 'You shall love your neighbor and hat your enemy.' But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be children of your Father in heaven; for he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the righteous and on the unrighteous."
Continue to pray even when it seems there is no answer for as God says in Isaiah 55:8-For my thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways my ways, says the Lord. So continue through adversity and in the end God will be your Victory.
Today's Reading: Psalm 68
David is asking God in verses 1-2 to rise up and scatter those who hate God, God's enemies, like smoke in the wind. Verses 3-4: But let the godly rejoice. Let them be glad in God's presence. Let them be filled with joy. Sing praises to God and to his name! Sing loud praises to him who rides the clouds. His name is the Lord--rejoice in his presence! Verses 5-6 describe who God is and some of what He does for us: Father to the fatherless, defender of widows, he places the lonely in families, sets the prisoners free and gives them joy.
Verses 7-18 describe the trials and all that the people of Israel endured in order to get to the promised land. The people of Israel were able to survive such things like wandering in the desert for forty years because God had a plan for them. He was preparing them and protecting them the entire time. He does the same for you and me in the midst of our trials. Even when the world around us seems to be falling apart. When we are scared and seeking shelter from the storm, He is there. When we have come through the storm and have to clean up afterwards, He is there. Verses 19-20: Praise the Lord; praise God our savior! For each day he carries us in his arms. Our God is a God who saves! The Soverign Lord rescues us from death.
David ends this psalm in verses 34-35 with these words: Tell everyone about God's power. His majesty shines down on Israel; his strength is mighty in the heavens. God is awesome in his sanctuary. The God of Israel gives power and strength to his people. Praise be to God!
So remember when the wars around you touch your lives, God will be there to guide you through and give you the strength you need and carry you when you are weak. For He cares for you no matter the circumstances of your life. You are His child.
Power Verses:
Psalm 55:22
Give your burdens to the Lord, and he will take care of you. He will not permit the godly to slip and fall.
Psalm 55:18
He ransoms me unharmed from the battle waged against me.
There are wars waged against the body of Christ, his believers and church, every day in every part of the world. Please pray for those in distant lands who are fighting the good fight and sharing God's Word in a place where it is forbidden. For those who feel the need to do more than pray, please check out the following website: www.opendoorsusa.org to see how you can help further. If we band together as believers in Christ then nothing can stop the spreading of His Word and the Holy Spirit from gathering us all together as brothers and sisters in Christ.
Today's Reading: Psalm 67
May God be merciful and bless us. May his face smile with favor on us. May your ways be known throughout the earth, your saving power among people everywhere. May the nations praise you, O God. Yes, may all the nations praise you. Let the whole world sing for joy, because you govern the nations with justice, and guide the people of the whole world. may the nations praise you, O God. Yes, may the nations praise you. Then the earth will yield its harvests, and God, our God, will richly bless us. Yes, God will bless us, and people all over the world will fear him.
Talk about your love song to God--well here it is. May we praise God like this through the storms of life and in the sunny days too. My prayer for you today is that every day your heart may find something for which to sing God's praises: family, friends, love, health, home, food on your table, the grace of being forgiven--whatever it may be. Praise God every day for what He is doing in your life even if what you praise Him for seems small to you, remember it is HUGE to Him. God loves a thankful heart.
Power Verses:
I Thessalonians 5:16-18
Always be joyful. Never stop praying. Be thanful in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.
Psalm 19:14
May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing to you, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.
Words of Wisdom:
May the strength of God pilot me. may the power of God perserve me. May the wisdom of God instruct me. May the hand of God protect me. May the way of God direct me. May the shield of God defend me. --Patrick of Ireland
Bear up the hands that hang down, by faith and prayer; support the tottering knees. Storm the throne of grace and persevere therein, and mercy will come down. --John Wesley
I tell you the truth, you can say to this mountain, "May you be lifted up and thrown into the sea," and it will happen. But you must really believe it will happen and have no doubt in your heart.
--Mark 11:22-23
In what way, however, shall we come to daring faith, to child-like trusting, to persevering and earnest prayer and to prayer out of a repentant heart? Can only specially blessed people pray this way? No, God revealsthese ways of prayer for all Christians. And in our Lord Jesus Christ they have all been manifested. It only means that we must make the next step on the assurances which the Lord has given me by His Word, or personally in certain situations of need. Surely the gift of faith exists as a gift of grace from the Holy Spirit where the great commitments in God's kingdom are involved. But Jesus says: "Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you receive it, and you will (Mark 11:24). And this pertains to every Christian for his prayer life.
And when we strive for the childlike prayer, this is not a difficult way either. All we have to do is to go with all our needs to the Father. We bring Him all of our distresses and requests in the confidence that He will grant them. And we will find that He knows what we need and answers our requests.
-Mother Basilea Schlink
From Realities of Faith
My Bible has a daily devotional in it and just wanted to share what I read today with you.
This one is about Martha and her sister Mary, the sisters of Lazarus. You can read their story in Luke 10:38-42.
You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your strength.
--Deuteronomy 6:5
Have you, like Martha, sometimes found yourself asking, "Lord, don't you care?" Do your personal priorities threaten to take precedence over what is better? When it's clear that your husband (or wife) has left you to do all the work by yourself--leaving you feeling shut out or left behind-how do you respond?
Our natural inclination when we're under pressure is to compete, to compare, to blame, to criticize, to demand, or to interrupt- and our husband (or wife) often find himself (herself) directly in the line of fire. Martha, no doubt, was wholeheartedly going about her business when she reached her stress limit. But Jesus didn't offer her His sympathy. Instead, He offered a gentle rebuke.
Like Martha, our hearts are distracted and weighed down by many worthwhile things--concerns about family and friends, daily work responsibilities, church-related duties, financial needs--as well as by our own ongoing thoughts, judgements, and self-talk. Looking to our Lord's peace and inviting His love to reign in our hearts relieves hurt, eases weariness, and sets our feet back on solid ground. This is not an easy task by any means; when fatigue sets in, harsh words erect barriers and marital tension mounts. But given the alternative, what kind of life together would you truly prefer?...
Yielding our heart and mind to the Holy Spirit's direction transforms our whole outlook. The more we pay attention to our Shepherd's gentle reproof and trustworthy guidance, the less we find ourselves worrying about the things that don't matter....
Taking the time to slow down long enough to talk to God and delight in the joy of His sweet presence--wherever we are, regardless of what we are doing, whether it's doing the dishes or driving to the store or stuttling the school car pool or preparing for an important meeting--can quiet our hearts and minds like nothing else. This is where we find the hidden strength that can never be taken away from us.
--Debra Evans (in parentheses is mine)
From Blessing Your Husband
Today's Reading: Psalm 65
Verse 2, 5: We will fulfill our vows to you, for you answer our prayers. All of us must come to you. Though we are overwhelmed by our sins, you forgive us them all. You faithfully answer our prayers with awesome deeds, O God our savior. You are the hope of everyone on earth, even those who sail on distant seas.
He watches over all the earth and everything in it, caring for all the animals, plants and of course, people, as a tender Father. He will provide for all of us out of His amazingly abundant love for us-His children.
My child, fear not, for I am with thee. My peace attend thee, my strength I give thee, my joy surrounds thee. Though times be tough and things seem hard, fear not for this too shall pass and good things are coming. Be patient. For I will unfold all the good things in time. Do this for me,
Phillipians 4:6-7-Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made know to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Never forget, my child, how much I love you!!!
Felt lead to share with you today, something that has really touched my heart in the last few days. I was busy reading my daily devotional emails and came across a link for opendoorsusa.org. It is a website that assists those who are suffering for believing, sharing and otherwise assisting fellow Christians in the parts of the world where believing in Christ is not acceptable.
I would like to this opportunity to ask those of you who are reading this blog to check out the website in red above and see what God lays on your heart. If you feel lead to help, please do so in whatever way God has for you to help. One simple way is writing a letter of encouragement to those who are persecuted. I have and will continue to do so. Please join me in encouraging our fellow bothers and sisters in Christ who are struggling beyond belief just so that God's Word can be spread.
Today's Reading: Psalm 64
David speaks of the evil actions of his enemies. They sharpen their tongues like swords; aim their bitter words like arrows; shoot from ambush at the innocent; attacking suddenly and fearlessly; encourage one another to do evil; plan how to set their traps in secret (v. 1-6)
Yes, human heart and mind are cunning.
Then David speaks about God's response to such evil deeds. Verses 7-10: God himself will shoot them with his arrows, suddenly striking them down. Their own tongues will ruin them and all who see them will shake their heads in scorn. Then everyone will be afraid; they will proclaim the mighty acts of God and realize all the amazing things he does. The godly will rejoice in the Lord and find shelter in him and those who do what is right will praise him.
How are you using your energy today? Are you busy destroying others with your words and actions like the enemies of David or are you acting out of praise to God through your day? Praising God is a much better use of your time and you will find more joy in your day by doing so.
Power Verses:
Ephesians 5:1-2, 15-16
Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children, and live in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.
Be careful then how you live, not as unwise people but as wise. Making the most of the time, because the days are evil.
Today's Reading: I Samuel 23:13-29 (Background on Psalm 63) & Psalm 63
Saul was hunting David through the wilderness of Judah but God didn't let Saul find him. Jonathan met David in the wilderness to encourage him to stay strong in his faith to God. "Dont be afraid, Jonathan reassure him. "My father will never find you! You are going to be the king of Israel, and I will be next to you, as my father, Saul, is aware." So they renewed their pact before the Lord. Then Jonathan returned home while David stayed at Horesh. Some men of Ziph, hillcountry of Judah, betrayed David, in verses 19-24 of I Samuel, by telling Saul where David was. Saul's request after thanking them for the information was that they make sure he was still there and then Saul would follow them because Saul wanted to kill David himself.
God saved David. Saul got a message while he was chasing David that the Philistines were raiding Israel. So Saul left to fight them. And the rock where David camped has been called the Rock of Escape- Sela-hamahlekoth-ever since. David then went to live in the strongholds of En-gedi, which is on the coast of the Sea of the Arabah (the Salt Sea).
In this psalm, you feel the very heart of David, which is filled with the love and adoration for God. May we all be more like David today, men and women after God's own heart.
Psalm 63
O God, you are my God; I earnestly search for you. My soul thirsts for you; my whole body longs for you in this parched and weary land where there is no water. I have seen you in your sanctuary and gazed upon your power and glory. Your unfailing love is better than life itself; how I praise you! I will praise you as long as I live, lifting up my hands to you in prayer. You satisfy me more than the richest feast. I will praise you with songs of joy.
I lie awake thinking of you, meditating on you through the night. Because you are my helper, I sing for joy in the shadow of your wings. I cling to you; your strong right hand holds me securely.
But those plotting to destroy me will come to ruin. They will go down into the depths of the earth. They will lie by the sword and become the food for jackals. But the king will rejoice in God. All who trust in him will praise him, while liars will be silenced.
May the Lord lead your hearts into full understanding and expression of the love of God and the patient endurance that comes from Christ. --II Thessalonians 3:5
Today's Reading: Psalm 62
The first verse tells us we should be patient and not complain when things don't happen as quickly as we wish. I wait quietly before God, for my victory comes from him. No matter what life throws our way, God is one we can run to when things get tough, when we need shelter, strength and so much more. Verse 2: He alone is my rock and my salvation, my fortress where I will never be shaken. Verse 3-4 describe the enemies surrounding David. They are many against one man; trying to kill him; see David as a broken-down wall or tottering fence. They plan to topple him from his high position; delight in telling lies about David; are two-faced. Praising him to his face yet cursing him in their hearts.
David answers back to all their tactics by putting his hope in God. Verse 7: My victory and honor come from God alone. He is my refuge, a rock, where no enemy can reach me.
David pleads with his people in verse 8: O my people, trust in him at all times. Pour out your heart to him, for God is our refuge. David further advises his people in vers 9-10: Common people are as worthless as a puff o f wind, and the powerful are not what they appear to be. If you weigh them on the scales, together they are lighter than a breath of air. I believe David is saying that we are all equal in God's eyes no matter our station in life. Don't make your living by extortion or put your hope in stealing. And if your wealth increases, don't make it the center of your life.
David ends this psalm giving God all the glory. Verse 12a: Power, O God, belongs to you; unfailing love, O Lord, is yours.
I can't even count the number of times I have seen my papaw mend a fence in his fields that had fallen down or was on the brink of doing so because of the cows or the weather. Everyone's heart needs mending now and then, much like my papaw's fences, in order to keep in the good things and block out the bad. What is the condition of your heart's fences today? Are they in need of simple repair, needing just a board replaced or are the wild things of the world running rampant and unchallenged in your heart, having trampled your fence under foot a long time ago?
There is hope! For it says in God's Word:
If we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness. --I John 1:9
Nothing in all creation is hidden from God. Everything is naked and exposed before his eyes, and he is the one to whom we are accountable. So then, since we have a great High Priest who has entered heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to what we believe. This High Priest of ours understands our weaknesses, for he faced all of the same testings we do, yet he did not sin. So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most.
This is my prayer for you today:
So we keep praying for you, asking our God to enable you to live a life worthy of his call. May he give you the power to accomplish all the good things your faith prompts you to do.
--II Thessalonians 1:11
I realized this morning that Satan tries continously to distract us, to get our preverbial goat. He tries at night when we lie down, the second you open your eyes and all through the day. The only protection we have is, from the words of Barney on How I Met Your Mother, to "suit up" except our suit isn't fabric and thread. Ours is the armor of God along with our most effective weapon next to God's Word-PRAYER!
Ephesians 6:10-18
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his power." Put on the whole armor of God so that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For our struggle is not against enemies of blood and flesh but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers of this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Therefore, take up the whole armor of God, so that you may be able to withstand, on that evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm. Stand therefore, and fasten the belt of truth around your waist, and put on the breastplate of righteousness. As shoes for your feet put on whatever will make you ready to proclaim the gospel of peace. With all of these, take the shield of faith, with which you will be able to quench all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God. Pray in the Spirit at all times in every prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert and always persevere in supplication for all the saints.
"They will fight against you but they will not overcome you, for I am with you to deliver you," declare the Lord. --Jeremiah 1:19
We humans are resilient, able to withstand almost any hardship as long as we know we're not abandoned. God always provides a way through, for Israel and for us.
So my question to you today is this. Have you suited up this morning? If not, take a moment and pray the verse above so that the armor of Christ will come upon you and you will be focused on God today rather than all the drama happening around you.
Today, I am taking a break from Psalms. I read something this morning and just had to share it with you. I know there are those out there like me, who were or are being raised by their grandparents. Though you might not understand or appreciate them raising you, you will in time trust me.
A Faith For This Generation
Good grandparents have a growing faith.
Remember all those chores we used to have as kids that the present generation knows nothing about? Maybe you were the one to gather the eggs, split the firewood, pump the cistern full of water, or chop the ice in the icebox. For most folks such activities are a thing of the past. They belong to another generation.
Grandparents whose faith consists of nothing more than a decision years ago tend to relegate Christianity to a past era. "Sure, religion was OK when Grandpa was a boy," some would say, "but it doesn't fit us now."
On the other hand, a grandma and grandpa whose faith is an active, growing, daily experience demonstrate a vital spiritual life that is needed in every age and era.
A growing faith is one that is constantly learning new things about the Lord. It is a faith that does not know all the answers but knows where to find them. It's a lifestyle that seeks God's guidance daily.
It's fairly simple to test whether your faith is still in the growing stage. When your grandkids come over and the subject turns to religion, do you tell them of events and experiences that happened in the past, or do you fill them with thoughts about what's happening in your spiritual life right now?
-Stephen and Janet Bly
From How to Be a Good Grandparent
I was blessed to have grandparents who were and still are active not only in the church but in God's Word. It is so easy to take examples of faith like that for granted if you are around them daily. But trust me, when you least expect it, you realize how much you have learned from them and how much you have become like them through association. I have only come to a better understanding of their wisdom since growing up and having kids of my own. That is why I believe I was placed in their home, to learn not only about God but to become closer to Jesus. They planted the seed by their example and God worked it and watered it.
Remember Jesus' parable of the sower:
Luke 8:5-18:
Verse 5-8: A sower went out to sow his seed; and as he sowed, some fell on the path and was trampled on, and the birds of the air ate it up. Some fell on the rock; and as it grew up, it withered for lack of moisture. Some fell among the thorns, and the thorns grew with it and choked it. Some fell into good soil, and when it grew, it produced a hundredfold." As he (Jesus) said this, he called out,"Let anyone with ears to hear listen!"
My question to you today, whether you are grandparents, parents or just a kid growing up, what kind of seed are you planting in those around you?
Today's Reading: I Samuel 19:11-24 & Psalm 59
Michal, Saul's daughter, was married to David the time of I Samuel 19. She was his first wife. Saul had tricked David into marrying her instead of his first daughter, Merab, whom Saul had promised to David. While David was away completing the task Saul had given him in order to marry Merab, he gave Merab to a man named Adriel. So Michal was next in line. Luck for her, she fell in love with David. Marrying the man you fall in love with is a rarity in a time of arranged marriages. That love would come in handy later for David.
We push forward some time after the marriage. Saul sent troops to his son-in-law's house in order for them to kill David. Michal knew her father's plans and told David in verse 11: "If you don't escape tonight, you'll be dead by morning." So she helped him out a window and he fled to Ramah where Samuel was. She covered his tracks by placing an idol in the bed and putting a cushion of goat's hair at the top--making a David dummy. So she told the troops who had come that he was sick in bed. When the troops took that message back to Saul, he told them to bring David in his bed to him so he could kill him. That is some deep-rooted hatred, wanting to kill a supposed sick man while he lay in his bed. Gives you a pretty good perspective of Saul here and explains why Michal did what she did. It also explains why she responds the way she does when the dummy is discovered. Verse 17 gives her response: "Why have you betrayed me like this and let my enemy escape?" Saul demanded of Michal. "I had to," Michal replied. "He threatened to kill me if I didn't help him."
Gotta stop here for a second. Makes you wonder. If Michal had not responded like that would Saul have treated his own daughter like a traitor and killed her too? That is a hard spot to be in, between two men whom you love-one who is clearly insane and the one who is trying to do God's will. I have to wonder though if her response didn't fuel Saul's rage further?
Back to the point. David's life was saved by Michal and he went to stay with Samuel in Naioth. When Saul's troops followed, they were struck by the Spirit of God and began prophesying. This happened three times. The third time it happened to Saul himself.
Psalm 59:
In this psalm, David is again pleading for God's protection. He knows the soldiers have been ordered by Saul to kill him. David's mind turns from his enemies to God's strength: "I wait for you to rescue me, for you, O God, are my fortress. In his unfailing love, my God will stand with me. He will let me look down in triumph on all my enemies.
David continues: Don't kill them God, use them as a lesson. Let their own pride, curses and lies destory them. Then the whole world will know that God reigns in Israel. David is praying for his people to learn a lesson here. For them to see what happens to those who do wrong and turn from their ways. Yes, David is human and he wants it to be over quickly as we all do in times of trouble but he has hope because he is blessed with each new day. He celebrates that fact at the end of this psalm in verses 16-17: But as for me, I will sing about your power. Each morning I will sing with joy about your unfailing love. For you have been my refuge, a place of safety whe I am in distress. O my Strength, to you I sing praises, for you, O God, are my refuge, the God who shows me unfailing love.
May we remember in hard times those who are continually working to keep us safe, like Michal did for David, and for each blessed morning that comes when we are safe in God's embrace.
Prayer Request:
Pray for those today who are in unsafe situations because they are spreading God's message or simply for choosing to believe in Christ where it is not acceptable. Pray for those who are going against the norm and suffering for it.
Want to know more? Check out this website: www.opendoorusa.org
Today's Reading: Psalm 58
When I read the first two verses of this chapter, Justice--do you rulers know the meaning of the word? Do you judge the people fairly? No! You plot injustice in your hearts. You spread violence throughout the land (v.1-2). I was immediately reminded of the situation of our government. It seems that these words still ring true of our leaders today, of our government that seems so self-serving.
David, in verses 6-9, is pleading with God to heal the land of all the injustice and to punish the wicked-the ones causing such destruction. Verse 9 says: God will sweep them (the wicked people) away, both young and old, faster than a pot heats over burning thorns. Verses 10-11 speak of the godly praising God for avenging the injustice. Verse 11: Then at last everyone will say, "There truly is a reward for those who live for God; surely there is a God who judges justly here on earth."
I don't normally think lot about our government. There is just so much I don't understand. But the situations I have seen and heard about lately-healthcare, Obama, and so much more, lay heavy on my heart and my mind. Our country, though strong from the outside, is rotting fromt the inside out, like an apple with a worm in it. The only remedy is prayer. Pray that God today will pluck the worms out of government and lead our nation through this time of injustice and make our nation healthy again--a nation focused on Him, not one of self-service.
Devotional Reading for Today:
Now the word of the Lord came to me saying, " Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you; I have appointed you a prophet to the nations."
--Jeremiah 1:4-5
Lord, I pray for answers to the dilemmas which plague our society. Not knowing whom You have called for special service, let me respect and revere each life with hope, anticipation and gratitude.
Today I read Psalms like any other day but didn't feel the strings of my heart being tugged at. No voice telling me to share what I read this morning. So I am going to take a break from Psalms today and write about something I read in C.S. Lewis' Mere Christianity.
Excerpt from Mere Christianity:
Enemy- occupied territory--that is what this world is. Christianity is the story of how the rightful king has landed, you might say landed in disguise, and is calling us all to take part in a great campaign of sabotage. When you go to church you are really listening-in to the secret wireless from our friends: that is why the enemy is so anxious to prevent us from going. He does it by playing on our conceit and laziness and intellectual snobbery. I know someone will ask me, 'Do you really mean, at this time of day, to re-introduce our old friend the devil--hoofs and horns and all?' Well, what the time of day has to do with it I do not know. And I am not particular about the hoofs and horns. But in other respects my answer is 'Yes, I do.' I do not claim to know anything about his personal appearence. If anybody really wants to know him better I would say to that person, 'Don't worry. If you really want to, you will. Whether you'll like it when you do is another question.'
We are in the midst of an unseen battle for not only this earth but our very souls. The question I put to you today is...Which side are you on? Do you know or are you merely guessing? If the answer is that you are guessing, I would encourage you to find an elder or minister who knows more about Christ and ask them the questions that are on your mind so that you will no longer have to guess but will know the answer to my question for your own sake.
Today's Reading: Psalm 56 which is a psalm of David regarding the time the Phillistines seized him in Gath-referring to I Samuel 27-30.
David's experience with the Phillistines was both good and bad. He found favor with the Phillistine king, Achish and became his bodyguard for life. But when they, David and his 600 men along with the Phillistine army, went into battle against Israel, the Phillistine commanders didn't want David and his men to go with them. They were worried David would double cross them. So they asked King Achish to send him and his men home to Ziklag, the country town the king had given David and his men. The king granted the commanders' request and sent David and his men home.
While they were gone, the Amalekites, an enemy of the Phillistines, raided Ziklag and took everything and burned the town to the ground. When David and his men arrived home, finding the town in this state and their families missing, David's men became angry with him. So much that they wanted to stone him.
David prayed to God for guidance. God told him that if they went after the raiders, they would get everything back. God gave him victory and returned everything the Amalekites had taken, even the flocks and herds.
The psalm today, chapter 56, is a statement of David's faith. He begins by asking for God's mercy because David's enemies are hounding him. But David says in verse 4: I praise God for what he has promised. I trust in God so why should I be afraid? What can mere mortals do to me? He continues by asking for God's vengence to fall on his enemies. Verses 8-13 are David finally seeing the picture that God wants him to see--that God has this well in hand--and David praises Him for that wonderful reason.
Verses 8-13: You keep track of all my sorrows. You have collected all my tears in your bottle. You have recorded each one in your book. My enemies will retreat when I call to you for help. This I know: God is on my side! I praise God for what he has promised; Yes I praise the Lord for what he has promised. I trust in God, so why should I be afraid? What can mere mortals do to me? I will fulfill my vows to you, O God, and will offer a sacrifice of thanks for your help. For you have rescued me from death; you have kept my feet from slipping. So now I can walk in your presence, O God, in your life-giving light.
Know today that no matter your situation, God has it well in hand and will see you through just as He did David. Praise Him for getting you through thus far and for what He will do even if you can't see the path yet. Praise Him through the darkness so you can walk in God's presence, in His life-giving light.
Reading From Psalm 55
David's prayer begins like ours does a lot of the time when we are facing trials. Listen to my prayer, O God. Do not ignore my cry for help! Please listen and answer me, for I am overwhelmed by my troubles (v.1-2). He continues by describing how he is tormented by his enemies and their threats. My heart pounds in my chest. The terror of death assaults me. Fear and trembling overwhelm me, and I can't stop shaking (v.4-5). He even goes so far as to wish something off the wall. Oh, that I had wings like a dove; then I would fly away and rest! I would fly far away to the quiet of the wilderness. How quickly I would escape--far from this wild storm of hatred (v. 6-8). Sound familiar?
He continues in the following verses to describe what is happening in the city. Confuse them, Lord, and frustrate their plans. for I see violence and conflict in the city. Its walls are patrolled day and night against invaders, but the real danger is wickedness within the city. Everything is falling apart; threats and cheating are rampant in the streets. Sometimes the ordeals in our lives make the simplest thing like going to work feel like this.
In verses 12-14, David finally puts a face to his tormentor. It is his best friend that he went to church with. David describes the actions of his friend in verses 20-21: As for my companion, he betrayed his friends; he broke his promises. His words are as smooth as butter, but in his heart is war. His words are as smoothing as lotion, but underneath are daggers! Some pretty strong words! How many times have you been betrayed by someone whom you considered a friend? There is an end result for both David and his friend. His tormentors can look forward to evil, death and the grave if they don't turn from their ways and go to God as seen in verse 15. As for David, he cries out to the Lord in his distress morning, noon and night and the Lord hears his voice. The Lord ransoms David and keeps him safe from the battle waged against him, though many still oppose him. (v. 17-18).
David ends this psalm as always, with hope. Give your burdens to the Lord and he will take care of you. He will not permit the godly to slip and fall (v.22).
For those of you who are struggling, have been betrayed by friends or simply need someone to talk to, remember God is there for all of the above and more.
Power Verses:
Zephaniah 3:17
For the Lord your God is living among you. He is a mighty Savior. He will take delight in you with gladness. With his love, he will calm all your fears. He will rejoice over you with joyful songs.
Deuteronomy 31:6
So be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid and do not panic before them. For the Lord your God will personally go ahead of you. He will neither fail you nor abandon you.
Prayer:
Help me, O God, to be a good and true friend,
To be always loyal, and never to let my friends down;
Never to talk about them behind their backs in a way in
which I ought to be silent;
Always to be ready to share everything I have;
To be as true to my friends as I would wish them to be to me.
This I ask for the sake of him who is the greatest and truest of all friends.
For Jesus' sake, Amen.
William Barclay
To pray together, in whatever tongue or ritual, is the most tender brotherhood of hope and sympathy that man can contract in this life.
Anne Louise Germaine De Stael
Psalm 54:
Come with great power, O God, and rescue me! Defend me with your might. Listen to my prayer, O God. Pay attention to my plea. For strangers are attacking me; violent people are trying to kill me. They care nothing for God. But God is my helper. The Lord keeps me alive! May the evil plans of my enemies be turned against them. Do as you promised and put an end to them. I will sacrifice a voluntary offering to you; I will praise your name, O Lord, for it is good. For you have rescued me from my trouble and helped me to triumph over my enemies.
David is praying to God for safety from his enemies. He knows God is helping him and will continue to do so. He knows God keeps His promises. And God has promised to put an end to those seeking to do David harm. David even says he will offer a voluntary sacrifice to God, praising His name for rescuing him and helping him triumph over his enemies.
How many times have we been in David's shoes? Surrounded by pain, hurtful people, grief, etc., the list goes on and on. We plead for God's help which He gives in wonderfully unexpected ways and then....we simply move on with life, forgetting to praise God for His rescue of us in times of trouble. We forget to say thank you.
Now if your mom or your grandma for that matter is anything like mine, you don't accept something without saying thank you cause if you did, you would most assuredly get "the look" and trust me you don't want "the look". How many times has God wanted to give us "the look" for not saying thank you to Him?
Challenge for the Day:
Praise God and tell Him thank you for rescuing you from whatever troubles you've been in in your life. Praising God will bring a new light of joy to your day, giving you a wonderful reason to smile.
For those of you who are in the midst of troubles right now, know that God loves you. Here are some words of encouragement in this time of your life:
Verses of Hope:
Psalm 32:8
The Lord says, "I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. I will advise you and watch over you."
Psalm 29:11
The Lord gives his people strength. The Lord blesses them with peace.
Psalm 18:28-31
You light a lampo for me. The Lord, my God, lights up my darkness. In your strength, I can crush an army; with my God I can scale any wall. God's way is perfect. All the Lord's promises prove true. He is a shield for all who look to him for protection. For who is God, except the Lord? Who but our God is a solid rock?
Power Verses:
I Thessalonians 5:16-22
Always be joyful. Never stop praying. Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you who belong to Christ Jesus. Do not stifle the Holy Spirit. Do not scoff at prophesies, but test everything that is said. Hold on to what is good. Stay away from every kind of evil.
Psalm 28:7
The Lord is my strenght and shield. I trust him with all my heart. He helps me, and my heart is filled with joy. I burst out in songs of thanksgiving. -Would also make an excellent prayer in times of trouble.
Psalm 53:
Only fools say in their hearts, "There is no God." They are corrupt and their actions are evil; not one of them does good! Good looks down from heaven on the entire human race; he looks to see if anyone is truly wise, if anyone seeks God. But no, all have turned away; all have become corrupt. No one does good, not a single one! Will those who do evil never learn? They eat up my people like bread and wouldn't think of praying to God. Terror will grip them, terror like they have never known before. God will scatter the bones of your enemies. You will put them to shame, for God has rejected them. Who will come from Mount Zion to rescue Israel? When God restores his people, Jacob will shout with joy, and Israel will rejoice.
We live in a time now like David was in here. There are so many surrounding us who don't believe in God. They feel they have no need of Him, though in their hearts they know He is near. They can feel Him pulling at their heart strings.
But like David we ask: "Will those who do evil never learn?" I can't imagine how it will be to be rejected by God. Makes me sad to know there will be people in this world who will come to know exactly how this feels due to the hardness of their hearts. Pray for those people today, that God will open a door, an opportunity, for a Christian to share the Lord with them. Pray that those people have a change of heart before it is too late. For we are not guaranteed tomorrow.
Power Verse:
Matthew 5:43-44:
"You have heard the law that says, 'Love your neighbor' and hate your enemy. But I say to you, love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you!"
Psalm 52: A psalm of David, regarding the time Doeg the Edomite said to Saul, "David has gone to see Ahimelech."
Why do you boast about your crimes, great warrior? Don't you realize God's justice continues forever? All day long you plot destruction. Your tongue cuts like a sharp razor; you're an expert at telling lies. You love evil more than good and lies more than truth.
You love to destroy others with your words, you liar! But God will strike you down once and for all. He will pull you from your home and uproot you from the land of the living.
The righteous will see it and be amazed. They will laugh and say, "Look what happens to mighty warriors who do not trust in God. They trust their wealth instead and grow more and more bold in their wickedness."
But I am like an olive tree, thriving in the house of God. I will always trust in God's unfailing love. I will praise you forever, O God, for what you have done. I will trust in your good name in the presence of your faithful people.
In this psalm, David was faced with adversity. His name was being slandered and his reputation was being destroyed by Doeg. But he never lost faith. He prayed and knew that God would take care of him and bring justice to those, like Doeg, who were trying to destroy him.
In times when it seems the weight of the world is too heavy to carry and you feel like you are destined to fail; that all you can see is your destruction by those who are experts at telling lies, know that God is at your side and will give you the strength to endure in times of trial.
You may not be facing any struggles today but as brothers and sisters of Christ, we are called to pray for others. There may be someone you know that is facing a trial that they feel is too much for them and their strength is zapped. Pray for that person and talk to them. Open the door so the Holy Spirit can come in and guide to help your brother or sister in Christ. It may be something small like a letter or phone call just to see how they are doing. But that simple act of kindness may be the turning point in their struggle against the powers of darkness.
Power Verses:
Psalm 62:6
He alone is my rock and my salvation, my fortress where I will not be shaken.
Isaiah 40:13
But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.
Psalm 62:8
O my people, trust in him at all times. Pour out your heart to him for God is our refuge.
Psalm 94: 18-19
I cried out, "I am slipping!" but your unfailing love, O Lord, supported me. When doubts filled my mind, your comfort gave me renewed how and cheer.
Hebrews 13:6
So we can say with confidence: "the Lord is my helper, so I will have no fear. What can mere people do to me?"
Today's Reading: Psalm 50
This is a psalm of Asaph, not David. He begins by speaking of the gathering of all nations and people to come and witness the judgement of Israel, God's people, from Mount Zion where God shines in glorious radiance. Verses 5-6: "Bring my faithful people to me--those who made a covenant with my by giving sacrifices." Then let the heavens proclaim his justice for God himself will be judge. I read this and was immediately transported to Revelation where it says God will be on His throne and there will be one final judgement for all.
Verses 7-15 are where God is speaking to His children who have been faithful. He tells them He is not complaining about the sacrifices and burnt offerings they give but He clarifies that what they are giving God is already His. Verse 10-11: For all the animals of the forest are mine and I own the cattle on a thousand hills. I know every bird on the mountains, and all the animals of the field are mine.
He continues with verses 12-15: If I were hungry, I would not tell you, for all the world is mine and everything in it. Do I eat the meat of bulls? Do I drink the blood of goats? Make thankfulness your sacrifice to God and keep the vows you made to the Most High. How wonderful that though written thousands of years ago, these words are still relevant today. God isn't asking you to give Him the world, it is already his. Though we try every day to give Him what we think He wants, our time, our money, anything to make us seem worthy of heaven when all He is asking for is a thankful heart. A heart of praise for the things God has done for you is the best place to start.
What have you been giving to God lately? Remember all the world and everything in it already belongs to Him. Give Him praise and be grateful today. That is all He asks. Asaph ends this chapter in verse 23 with praise: But giving thanks is a sacrifice that truly honors me. If you keep to my path, I will reveal to you the salvation of God.
Challenge: Make a list of things you are thankful for today then turn it into a prayer of thankfulness. Share your list with someone else--may it start a thankfulness chain, lighting a praise fire to God.
Power Verses:
Psalm 112:1
Praise the Lord! How joyful are those who fear the Lord and delight in obeying his commands.
Psalm 115:1
Not to us, O Lord, not to us, but to your name goes all the glory for your unfailing love and faithfulness.
This morning I ready Psalm 49. It reads like a conversation between two people--one wise and one eager to learn. They are discussing the injustice of riches in this life, how some struggle and others seem to have it all. The rich may be rich and seem like they have everything their hearts desire but in the end, they can't buy their way out of the grave. They too will pass away, leaving all their riches behind because you can't take it with you when you go. But we, as followers of Christ, have this promise from Psalm 49:15: But as for me, God will redeem my life. He will snatch me from the power of grave. Better to be rich in Christ and live forever in heaven than to have all the things your hearts desire and spend eternity somewhere else.
Now don't ge me wrong, riches can be a blessing but like it says in Matthew 19:23-24: Then Jesus said to his disciples, "Truly I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God." But this isn't the end. Matthew 19:25-26 explains it further. When the disciples heard this, they were greatly astounded and said, " Then who can be saved?" But Jesus looked at them and said, "For mortals it is impossible, but for God all things are possible."
So when the green-eyed monster of jealousy rears its ugly head, remember that God provides each of what we need as Matthew 6:26 says: Look at the birds of the air, they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?
Don't let your longings to be rich in this life hinder your search for the only true richness in this world, a deep and meaningful relationship with the Lord God.
