Discovery Journal

2011-10-17T10:16:00.000-07:00

Father's House has challenged its congregation to a new Bible-reading schedule: Pforty Weeks of Psalms. Click on the "Follow Father's House on Facebook" link to the right.

2011-10-17T10:13:00.000-07:00

Kim T. - Oct 15, 2011

Scripture:

Acts 4:18-20 So they called them and charged them not to speak or teach at all in the name of Jesus. But Peter and John answered them, "Whether it is right in the sight of God to listen to you rather than to God, you must judge, for we cannot but speak of what we have seen and heard."

Observation:

Peter and John lived in a world that was not friendly to Jesus. But they had been with Jesus and their lives were forever changed; no going back to life as they once knew it. How could they not speak of the goodness of God?

Application:

Crazy things are happening in our world today, and many are not friendly toward Jesus. I just saw a picture on a news article of a man holding up a sign that said that when Jesus returns they will kill Him again. The church needs to know Jesus like Peter and John did, that their lives would never be the same again, and nothing can keep us from shining the light! I want to know Jesus in such a way that I cannot hold back what He has done and who He is.

Prayer:

Jesus, I’m so thankful for all You have done in my life and all that You have given to me. Bring me closer to You to hear and feel what is on Your heart. I pray that the things in my life that hold me back would dissolve away so that I can shine Your glorious light.

2011-10-14T22:33:00.000-07:00

Kevin T. – October 14, 2011

Scripture:

Psalm 1:3,4 & 6 He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers. Not so the wicked! They are like chaff that the wind blows away. For the LORD watches over the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked will perish.

Observation:

The wicked live what we all fear. Their lives are insignificant (like chaff that the wind blows away), and they are alone. The righteous get what all desire: fruitfulness, life, and the watchful presence of the Lord Himself on everything we do.

Application:

The contrast between the wicked and the righteous is always a timely reminder. Especially when we seem to notice the prosperity of the wicked on this Earth and the seeming lack of benefit of righteous living. This psalm shows the deeper, eternal significance. It is in fact more beneficial to live righteously here on Earth.

Prayer:

Lord, let me keep in mind the eternal truth of the benefits of serving and trusting You. Amen

2011-10-14T22:27:00.000-07:00

Susie J. – October 12, 2011

Scripture:

Nehemiah 8:9 Then Nehemiah the governor, Ezra the priest and scribe, and the Levites who were instructing the people said to them all, "This day is sacred to the LORD your God. Do not mourn or weep." For all the people had been weeping as they listened to the words of the Law.

Observation:

These exiled people who were brought back together realized their sins and were weeping over them. But God said "Don’t grieve."

Application:

This scripture is one of the first ones I wrote in my DJ about in 2009. I find it interesting that He brought me back to the same verse two years later. Maybe it is the season of life I am in right now, but when I read it again, it brought back some of the pain of my past and made me weep again! It brought regrets from my past that if only I had followed Christ many years ago maybe my family would have been spared some of the trials they are facing today.
Then again I am reminded of the redemptive nature of our God and how He has strengthened me through those painful times in my life, and how He has equipped me to walk through times like I experienced with others. Go figure, He knew all along what my trials were for, even when I didn’t have a clue. But then…He is God! I am not, and for that I am thankful, and my kids are, too…

Prayer:

Lord, thank You for Your Word that so clearly shows us who You are. You are the magnificent God who created me with a purpose, and You are faithful to complete it. Thank You that you have not and never will leave me. That you are working all things for good according to Your purpose and I don’t have to worry about the outcome. Thank You for forgiveness, grace, and mercy, and victory! Amen

2011-10-12T15:56:00.000-07:00

Mike J. – October 11, 2011

Scripture:

Psalm 146:3 Do not put your trust in princes, in mortal men, who can not save.

Observation:

God blesses us with leaders to lead us and to govern over our nation with laws that are to be enforced fairly and justly. But since the leaders are mortal men, then how much trust should we have in these leaders? Who can we trust to lead us as God desires?

Application:

Only God can lead us to live a life of righteousness. Only by accepting a relationship with Christ will we be able to put our trust in God, for not just our needs but also for our salvation for all eternity.

Prayer:

Father God, I thank You for leading me everyday of my life. I trust You for all of my needs. I want to honor You, Lord, by how I live my life. Thank You, God, for saving me. Amen.

2011-10-10T21:53:00.000-07:00

Brook B. - October 9, 2011

Scripture:

Psalm 133:1 How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in unity!

Observation:

I love that this is a major thing that God wants to get across to His children. He says it everywhere in His Word, from the Old Testament, Psalms, and New Testament. He wants us to live together in unity because when we are unified, nothing can stop us!

Application:

After talking in home group about the benefits of being unified, I feel I have even more of a reason to stay united with my fellow believers. Satan wants to destroy our unity because in doing so, he destroys the miracle of oneness that only God's followers can have. He says in his prayer in John 17 that if we're brought to complete unity, the world will know the extent of God's love from them. Wow, that is so powerful, and a big responsibility on us as believers to stay of one mind! Not to mention that at the end of Psalm 133 he says, "For there the LORD bestows his blessing, even life forevermore." Sounds good to me.

Prayer:

Lord, I am overwhelmed by Your love for me. I can hear Your desire for unity coming out of Your Word over and over. Please help me push myself back and put others before myself. Help me do nothing out of selfish ambition, but in humility think of others more than myself. With You, I know we as a unified body can show the world the extent of Your love. Thank You, Lord, for showing me this. In You, Amen.

2011-10-10T13:43:00.000-07:00

Sheila W. - October 8, 2011

Scripture:

Psalm 131:1-2 My heart is not proud, O LORD, my eyes are not haughty; I do not concern myself with great matters or things too wonderful for me. 2 But I have stilled and quieted my soul; like a weaned child with its mother, like a weaned child is my soul within me.

Observation:

This psalm is a beautiful song about not worrying about big things, like world peace, the conflict in North Korea, or even where God came from or how incredible was the timing of the birth of Christ!! Those things are sometimes too big for me to even wrap my mind around. Instead, David is saying that he quiets himself and doesn't fuss about things.

Application:

The first verse was weird for me, but then when I read the second one, I understood what David was getting at: we try to solve the world's problems or figure out things that we'll never figure out (until we get to heaven, I guess), and really, we're just wasting time with that and often becoming frustrated or sad. He talks about NOT being proud or haughty (thinking I CAN solve all of these problems!). I need to quiet my soul and look at things that are within my grasp, so to speak, like witnessing to my neighbor, showing mercy to the poor, being kind to others, exhibiting the fruit of the spirit, slaying my Goliaths, etc. THIS is true maturity.

Prayer:

Father, You alone know that my mind sometimes DOES try to solve too many things, that my mind rambles on and on, and in the end, I've accomplished nothing for Your kingdom. What a waste of time! Help me, Father, to spend my time in more resourceful ways, ways that help spread Your kingdom here on earth.

2011-10-08T20:13:00.000-07:00

Guy D. - October 7, 2011

Scripture:

Luke 20:14-16 14 “But when the tenants saw him, they talked the matter over. ‘This is the heir,’ they said. ‘Let’s kill him, and the inheritance will be ours.’ 15 So they threw him out of the vineyard and killed him. “What then will the owner of the vineyard do to them? 16 He will come and kill those tenants and give the vineyard to others.” When the people heard this, they said, “God forbid!”

Observation:

The vine dressers sought their own wealth without fear for the consequences. They even went as far as to kill the owner's son. That was pretty blatant.

Application:

How blatant it must appear to God when I seek to use the gifts that He has entrusted me with for my own glory. And how easy it is for my flesh to talk me into it. How important a humble heart is. Even though the vine dressers appeared to be doing all the work, they would not have had a place to work if it were not for the owner of the vineyard. What right did they have to be there? When God entrusts us with gifts, it is for His glory, not our own. When I take the glory, it shows my proud heart and keeps me from joining in the ministry of Christ.

Prayer:

Lord, thank You for redeeming me, for including me in your work. Forgive me, Lord, for having a proud heart. And though it may not be comfortable for my ego, produce humility in me, Lord.

2011-10-08T20:10:00.002-07:00

Misty T. - September 6, 2011

Scripture:

Luke 19:1-9 Jesus entered Jericho and was passing through. A man was there by the name of Zacchaeus; he was a chief tax collector and was wealthy. He wanted to see who Jesus was, but because he was short he could not see over the crowd. So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore-fig tree to see him, since Jesus was coming that way. When Jesus reached the spot, he looked up and said to him, “Zacchaeus, come down immediately. I must stay at your house today.” So he came down at once and welcomed him gladly. All the people saw this and began to mutter, “He has gone to be the guest of a sinner.” But Zacchaeus stood up and said to the Lord, “Look, Lord! Here and now I give half of my possessions to the poor, and if I have cheated anybody out of anything, I will pay back four times the amount.”Jesus said to him, “Today salvation has come to this house, because this man, too, is a son of Abraham. For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.”

Observation:

Jesus can save and use anyone if they are willing.

Application:

So many times I look at myself and think "I am not 'worthy' or 'righteous' enough to be used by God." I feel so simple at times, but I've come to realize that God isn't concerned with that..that's my own hang up. He called me with a PURPOSE. He wants to STAY AT MY HOUSE! I rejoice in the way that God made me, and continue to seek Him for direction...and ALWAYS have a room prepared for Him.

Prayer:

Lord, thank You for using me..a simple sinner who strives daily to do what You have called me to do. Thank You for giving me purpose. I pray that You would continue to be my strength so that I can continue to live out what You have called me to do.

2011-10-06T16:15:00.000-07:00

Justin T. - October 5, 2011

Scripture:

Esther 4:14 For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father’s family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?

Observation:

God's providence had set the stage for this very moment in Esther's life (to intercede on behalf of her people by appearing before the King). This task would surely result in her death if the king's golden scepter was not extended to her (his own wife). Scholars suggests that the law that made the kings virtually unapproachable, even to their wives, was put in place so that the kings might more freely enjoy their concubines. Esther by this time in the story was also not in good standing with the king, as she had been kept from his presence for thirty days, making her even more unsure of what would become of her if she were to go before the king. She had every reason to doubt her purpose and shrink back into a protective shell of self-preservation, but Mordecai insisted that everything that led her to this point was for "such a time as this."

Application:

The King of Kings does not have a law that would keep us from entering His throne room. We can come boldly before His throne knowing that we will always receive an answer that will give us peace if we pray in faith. We are all welcome through the blood of Jesus Christ! When God calls us to His purpose, the purpose does not die if we fail to complete it (whether by fear or disobedience). God will complete His purposes whether it is THROUGH YOU or from "another place" because His Word cannot return void, but will "accomplish" that which He pleases (Isaiah 55:11). Whatever we are called to, we do not need to fear because if He has designed us for it, He will give us success in it!

Prayer:

Father I thank You that I can come before Your throne boldly through the precious blood of Jesus Christ! I pray that today You would make my purpose crystal clear and give me the grace to carry out what You have designed me for. Forgive me for the times that I have shrunk back. Help me to embrace Your will for my life and not allow the purpose You have designed for me to be accomplished from another place. Today I leave fear at the foot of the cross, because You have not given me a spirit of fear. In Jesus' name, Amen.

2011-10-05T14:39:00.000-07:00

Guest Blogger JoAnne B. - October 4, 2011

Scripture:

Luke 17:20-21 Once, having been asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God would come, Jesus replied, "The kingdom of God does not come with your careful observation, nor will people say, 'Here it is,' or 'There it is,' because the kingdom of God is within you."

Observation:

I find it very interesting that Jesus said this to the Pharisees, who were known for paying close attention to the law and the "right" way to do things. These were people who were so often blinded by their "knowledge" of the law. Here it seems Jesus is telling them to get themselves out of the way and not to be so caught up in watching for the kingdom of God. Rather, He wanted them to realize that the kingdom of God was closer than they thought, because it was within them.

Application:

I think sometimes it is easier to look for some philosophical answer to the questions and problems in life rather than to realize that Christ within us has all of the power to overcome any circumstance. It is also easier to think that something as amazing as the kingdom of God is something so big that it cannot be a part of little, imperfect me. However, God within me should be something amazing, something big enough to show the kingdom of God to the world around me. The kingdom of God within me is God's grace, God's forgiveness, the fruits of God's Spirit shining through my life- overcoming all my humanness as I trust and follow the Holy Spirit each day. At first glance, the thought that the kingdom of God is within me feels daunting. But, as I think about this some more, I realize that if I am walking in the power of the Holy Spirit in my life, then this is a natural part of my life. It does not involve me working really hard to do and say all the right things. It involves me getting out of the way of myself every single day, and inviting the Holy Spirit to guide all of my steps.

Prayer:

Lord, you know the areas where I struggle the most in trusting the Holy Spirit and allowing him to shine through me. Sometimes I allow myself to struggle with something using my own strength and forgetting that You have told me in Your Word that You have redeemed me. If I believe Your Word that says I am more than a conqueror, and that I can do all things through Christ, and that I am a new creation, then I must follow those truths in my life. So often I let myself get in the way of what You are trying to do in me. In my heart I never ever want to stand in Your way. In my mind, sometimes those patterns I have created in my life cause a struggle for me. But, You have told me in Your Word that even faith as small as a mustard seed can move mountains. So, I just ask that You will help me to have that faith and to act on it in those moments when I find myself in the middle of a battle between my heart and my mind. I am Yours, and I want You to have all of me! Thank You that You are working in me to will and to act according to Your good purposes. Help me to trust Your leading and get out of the way. Thank You for being my everlasting God!

2011-10-04T21:16:00.000-07:00

Crystal W. - October 3, 2011

Scripture:

Psalm 138:8 The Lord will fulfill His purpose for me: Your love, O Lord, endures forever - do not abandon the works of Your hands.

Observation:

The truth is that the Lord will fulfill His purpose in my life. Nothing can stop Him...or thwart His divine purpose for creating me!

Application:

I love how the Sunday's sermons match up with something you read the following week. Reading this is confirmation in my life that God is in control and He will have His way. He created me in my mother's womb for a purpose. Just like for David and the purposes of his life...nothing came in the way. God lined it up. Just like He is lining mine up. Daily. Hourly. Every second of my day.

Prayer:

God, I say "Yes," and move out of Your way. I know that I have stepped in the way many times, and that I will fail that very way again. You created me to have a free will, and when I choose incorrectly, I ask You, God, to realign me and get me back on track. Your purposes for my life are so much greater and higher than anything I could even plan for myself. I love Your ways because You have shown them to me, and there is nothing like them. I am Yours, and I am willing. I am putting my life at Your cross today and again tomorrow and so on. I love You, God. Amen.

2011-10-04T20:15:00.000-07:00

Clint W. - October 2, 2011

Scripture:

Luke 15:17 When he came to his senses, he said, ‘How many of my father’s hired servants have food to spare, and here I am starving to death!'

Observation:

This is the story of the prodigal son. He had taken his inheritance and squandered it and was now left with nothing at all. The thing that jumped out at me most about this verse was "he came to his senses." This tells me that the son was not functioning with all of his faculties. In his heart, he knew what was right all along, but somehow he managed to deceive himself into believing that what he was doing was right. Essentially, he had lost his mind.

Application:

It can be so easy, at times, for me to deceive myself. If I get my mind going in a direction, it often becomes easy to think, "Oh, I'm not really doing anything wrong." I need to guard my heart and mind to stay true to what I know to be right. I need to keep James 1:22 at the front of my mind that says, "do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says." Self deception starts with believing one tiny lie, then the next one doesn't seem as bad. Before I know it, I may be 180° from where I started.

Prayer:

Thank You, heavenly Father, for Your love and compassion for me when I deceive myself. I am so thankful that You are always there, pulling me back to You. I pray that You would give me the strength to keep my focus on You. I know that I can grow each and every day, and I commit to finding ways to keep my eyes ahead - stayed on You each day. And Lord, I do pray that those times when I am living outside of my senses, that You would pull me back to You. Amen.

2011-10-03T09:14:00.000-07:00

The "blogger" sent her blog in on time, but the "blog-poster" missed posting it. Enjoy reading the following blog from 9/24/11!

Jean B. - September 24, 2011

Scripture:

Psalms 85:8 I will listen to what God the Lord will say: He promises peace to His people, His saints- but let them not return to folly. 9 Surely His salvation is near those who fear him, that His glory may dwell in our land 10 Love and faithfulness meet together; righteousness and peace kiss each other. Faithfulness springs forth from the earth, and righteousness looks down from heaven. The Lord will indeed give what is good, and our land will yield its harvest. Righteousness goes before him, prepares the way for his steps.

Observation:

If we listen to the Lord He promises us peace, but warns us not to return to our old ways. The Lord will give good to the righteous.

Application:

The word that really stood out to me was peace. "He promises peace to His people, His saints." The thing I long for most in my life is peace. I think most people do. But a lot of times I look for peace in the wrong way. True peace can only come from Him. Not in money, activities, doing what I want. It's in the still, quiet times I spend with Him in His Word...that is when I can hear Him, pray to Him, knowing He's heard me. The peace that comes from that time is so sweet.
Verse 10 is beautiful, like a poem. The Lord gives what is good when I walk in righteousness. When others see the peace and joy that the Lord has given me, they may ask why and want the same for themselves. Like the Psalmist said, "and our land will yield its harvest."

Prayer:

Lord I love You and thank You everything You have done for me. You are a generous God. Thank You for always listening to me and being there always. Thank You for YOUR peace, even when it's not peaceful! I know that You only give what is good for my life. Help me to show Your love and kindness to everyone I meet today. I also pray for the people I meet today, that they will come to know and love You and receive You as their Lord. In Jesus' name, Amen.

2011-10-01T19:12:00.000-07:00

Sheila W. - October 1, 2011

Scripture:

Luke 14:25 Large crowds were traveling with Jesus, and turning to them he said: 26 "If anyone comes to me and does not hate his father and mother, his wife and children, his brothers and sisters--yes, even his own life--he cannot be my disciple. 27 And anyone who does not carry his cross and follow me cannot be my disciple.

Observation:

There were a LOT of people following Jesus at different times in His three-year ministry. Here He tells people blatantly to hate his family! Jesus, I'm sure, has a different meaning here than first meets the eye. If we love anything MORE than Jesus, we're not fit to be His disciple. He wants ALL of us--everything!

Application:

I frequently have to search my heart to see if I'm putting anything above my love for Christ. If I do, it's usually my family. If I want to grow in this journey with Jesus, I have to not only WANT Him to be everything I need and desire, but He actually has to BE everything I need and desire.

Prayer:

Father, I love You and desire You above all else. I know that sometimes I look to my husband or kids or grandkids to bring me comfort and happiness, but You really are the only One who can give me those things that will endure forever.

2011-10-01T18:35:00.000-07:00

Sheila W. - September 30, 2011

Scripture:

Luke 13:6 Then he told this parable: "A man had a fig tree, planted in his vineyard, and he went to look for fruit on it, but did not find any. 7 So he said to the man who took care of the vineyard, 'For three years now I've been coming to look for fruit on this fig tree and haven't found any. Cut it down! Why should it use up the soil?' 8 " 'Sir,' the man replied, 'leave it alone for one more year, and I'll dig around it and fertilize it. 9 If it bears fruit next year, fine! If not, then cut it down.' "

Observation:

This is a metaphor about Israel, and also the Church. God bears with His children, and then patiently bears with us longer when we do not produce fruit.

Application:

There are many times in my life that no fruit is evident. Those are awful times. Times when I'm thinking about myself first and foremost. I am so thankful that God is patient with me, pruning me, cultivating me, growing me into a plant that produces fruit for His kingdom.

Prayer:

Father, first of all, forgive me for my times of self-centeredness and complacency. You are the great Gardener, and I bow before Your wisdom in how You prune me and cause me to produce fruit. I do want to be productive for Your kingdom, Lord. Change me, change my heart to be centered more around you and the things that enlarge Your kingdom on earth.

2011-09-30T08:23:00.000-07:00

There are two Guest Bloggers for 9/29/11. Enjoy!

Guest Blogger Rhonda C. - September 29, 2011

Scripture:

Luke 12:25 Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to your life? 26 Since you cannot do this very little thing, why do you worry about the rest? 32 “Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has been pleased to give you the kingdom.

Observation:

I know I spend a lot of time worrying, and since everything I worry about is out of my control, every moment I spend dwelling on it is a wasted moment. But what strikes me about this scripture is the glimpse of how God views time. To Him, it’s a “very little thing” to add an hour to someone’s life. I have thrown away so many hours of my life, time that I can’t get back and use for something productive – I waste time on worry as if time means nothing to me. Worry and fear seem to go hand in hand, and 99% of what I worry about and fear has to do with the state of my “kingdom,” my little world. It’s impossible to enjoy the blessings God has already given me while I’m worrying about how to keep or control them. Our Father has been pleased to give me the kingdom. Controlling something that I didn’t create or obtain on my own seems ridiculous to me, but that doesn’t stop me from trying. It pleases God to give me Himself now, and not because I worried, whined, begged or made Him, but because He loves me and it makes Him happy.

Application:

God tells us in Philippians to think about what is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent or praiseworthy. Taking my thoughts captive means catching myself when I begin to worry or fret about something that hasn’t happened yet, or when I think about my past as if I can change it and make it better than it was, and making a conscious decision to think about the things God wants me to think about. The change that comes over me always surprises me when I focus on praying for others or ask God to guide my thoughts – I instantly know that God is in control and that if it pleased Him to add an hour to my life He would do so.

Prayer:

Father God, thank You for giving Your kingdom to me here and now, in addition to the inexpressible gift of salvation and the opportunity to know Jesus before I meet Him face to face. I treasure the guidance You provide to me every day. Please forgive me for those times when I worry about what I don’t have, what I’ve done in the past, or who I might lose. I pray that You will always help me catch myself so I can turn my mind to You and the lovely things You’d have me think of. Amen

2011-09-30T08:17:00.000-07:00

Guest Blogger Tom W. - September 29, 2011

Scripture:

I looked again, and there before me was a flying scroll. 2 He asked me, “What do you see?” I answered, “I see a flying scroll, twenty cubits long and ten cubits wide.” 3 And he said to me, “This is the curse that is going out over the whole land; for according to what it says on one side, every thief will be banished, and according to what it says on the other, everyone who swears falsely will be banished. 4 The LORD Almighty declares, ‘I will send it out, and it will enter the house of the thief and the house of anyone who swears falsely by my name. It will remain in that house and destroy it completely, both its timbers and its stones.’”

Observation:

Judgment is coming to Israel and all of mankind, we cannot escape judgment,

Application:

When Zechariah was written, scrolls were used instead of books. Scroll’s normally had writing on one side only. But in a few cases God wrote on both sides of a scroll. When he does it indicates judgment is coming. In Zechariah 5, a flying scroll the same size as the tabernacles Holy Place warned that those who failed to keep the law would be banished from God’s presence and their homes would be destroyed. In Ezekiel 2: 9-3:3, a scroll with writing on both sides meant Israel was going to be judged and the whole nation of Israel was going to join the captives in Babylon for a 70 year stay. Revelation 5:1 says And I saw in the right hand of him that sat on the throne a book written within and on the backside, sealed with seven seals. A scroll written inside and on the back tells us Christ, who is the only one able to break the seven seals, is clearly established as Lord and executes the will of God, the Father who is seated on the throne. The Father has willed that the Son oversees its execution. John 5:22, 27 and Acts 10:42 tells us that Jesus is Judge of all. This is the central purpose of the Revelation: to reveal the Son’s execution of the Father’s judgment against both the living and the dead. John does not explicitly indicate what is contained in the scroll because Revelation 8-20 contains the judgment of God against wickedness, Judgment is the outcome in all 3 instances There is historical evidence of scrolls containing seven seals. In both the Jewish and Roman worlds, seven sealed scrolls were very common. Specifically, Roman law mandated that wills be validated by the seals of five or seven witnesses. Jewish magic also employed the motif of seven seals

Prayer:

Dear Omnipotent Father, You were, are and will be our judge. We will ALL be judge once. Thank You that You will judge us righteously and fairly, and we will not swear falsely by Your name. Thank You, Lord, for opening our eyes and ears and giving us the truth of what is to come and Your judgments.

2011-09-29T09:32:00.000-07:00

Sherrill W. – September 28, 2011

Scripture:

Luke 11:24-26 "When an evil spirit comes out of a man, it goes through arid places seeking rest and does not find it. Then it says, 'I will return to the house I left.' When it arrives, it finds the house swept clean and put in order. Then it goes and takes seven other spirit more wicked than itself, and they go in and live there. And the final condition of that man is worse than the first."

Observation:

When evil is resisted/overthrown, it tries to make its way back in.

Application:

When I make changes to my life by overcoming/resisting temptations, I must be diligent because the temptation to fall back will be greater than before. My resource is to call on the Holy Spirit to give me the strength to live my life as God's child.

Prayer:

Thank You, God, for Your grace and goodness. Help me to remember to call upon You, for You are my source of strength. I want my life to reflect Your will, Your grace. Thank You for all You are!

2011-09-26T17:06:00.000-07:00

Ray W. – Sep 27, 2011

Scripture:

Luke 10:22 "All things have been committed to me by my Father. No one knows who the Son is except the Father, and no one knows who the Father is except the Son and those to whom the Son chooses to reveal him."

Observation:

Jesus shows us who the Father is and that through Jesus we know the Father. If we follow Jesus we will be with the Father and will have eternal life.

Application:

Seems so simple and clear. Follow and love Jesus for eternal life. Yet we sometimes become lazy, or forget, or get too wrapped up in ourselves to “follow.” Focus on Him. In Matthew 22 – "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind….and love your neighbor as yourself."

Prayer:

Lord, with all my heart, help me to love my neighbors as You would have me do. Thank You for my family and blessings. Thanks You for Your Son and His sacrifice. In Your holy name I pray, Amen.

2011-09-23T23:23:00.000-07:00

Mike B. - September 23, 2011

Scripture:

Luke 6:45 The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For out of the overflow of his heart his mouth speaks.

Observation:

I think this is pretty cut and dry. Jesus is saying that it is that which is in our heart that drives what we say and do. We can all fake it here and there, but over the long term our true heart becomes apparent.

Application:

The scripture is really pointing out hypocrisy in our lives. We act a certain way around certain people, we may speak differently and act accordingly. But over the long term, what we say, how we act, how we treat others really shows what is truly in our hearts. It’s easy to come to church and be friendly, sing and worship God and appear to be good Christians. But what happens the rest of the week? How do we act, and how do we treat others at work? A real indication of your heart is what you do when you know that no one is looking. We need to be the same throughout the week, wherever we are, whomever we are with.

Prayer:

Lord, I pray for You to change my heart, to wash me and make me pure. I want my heart to reflect Your will in my life, not my desires and motives. Forgive me of my sins and restore in me a clean heart. Amen

2011-09-23T09:29:00.000-07:00

Crystal W. - September 22, 2011

Scripture:

Psalm 123:1 I will lift my eyes to you, to you whose throne is in heaven.

Observation:

The author is saying that he will look to the Lord.

Application:

The entire 123rd Psalm is gently reminding me to continue to focus my eyes (mind, heart and ways) on the Lord. I enjoy being reminded of this due to the importance of it in my life. It's really the only way my life stays in alignment and in peace. When my eyes (mind, heart and ways) are set on the Lord, I will not go out into this world like a blind woman not sure of the next step, not sure of the next turn, and not sure of myself. The Lord provides confidence, security, answers, and grace. When I am earnestly seeking the Lord's ways and keeping my eyes turned up to Him, I can easily hear His voice and guidance.

Prayer:

Lord, I will lift my eyes to You, to You whose throne is in heaven. I trust You, I love You and I need more of You. As I continue to lift my eyes to You, Lord, show me the ways of my day. Guide me in the steps I am to take. Share with me the secrets of You., the secrets You have for my life. As I lift my eyes to You, Lord, I am drawn closer to You and my love for You is increased. You are my Saving God, You are my Providing God, You are the Mighty One, Alpha and Omega, the Everlasting God. I bow before Your throne and put my ways behind me today. I put You first, Jesus. -Amen

2011-09-22T20:46:00.000-07:00

Clint W. - September 21, 2011

Scripture:

Luke 4:3-4 The devil said to him, “If you are the Son of God, tell this stone to become bread.” Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone.’”

Observation:

Jesus has gone 40 days without food at this point, and Satan tempts him first with the thing that is most likely to be on His mind at the time. After 40 days of not eating, I imagine that food was a pretty regular thought as Jesus continued through the wilderness.

Application:

What areas am I leaving open for temptation? If Satan were to look at me, what would he say are areas that he could possibly trip me up? Jesus was obviously not overcome by these temptations, but at the same time, if they weren't tempting, then it really would not have been a test. Jesus was tempted, and possibly even considered the consequences of allowing himself to give in to those temptations. Satan knew that He had to be hungry - after all, He was completely human. I wonder if what Satan sees when he looks for areas of weakness in my life. Also, I noticed that Jesus uses scripture to defeat Satan. Memorization is a key for Him living a holy life - and overcoming Satan's temptations in this verse.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank You so much for allowing Your Son to go through temptation so that I can see an example of overcoming. Thank You for giving me a way out, and giving me scripture that I can lean on in times of weakness. I pray that You will show me the areas of weakness in my life, and give me the grace to strengthen those areas. Protect me from the things I am not yet ready to face, and gird me up for the things I will face. Help me to depend on You and Your Word so that I will be prepared when the enemy of my soul attacks me. Amen.

2011-09-21T10:22:00.000-07:00

Justin T. - September 20, 2011

Scripture:

Daniel 6:4-5 At this, the administrators and the satraps tried to find grounds for charges against Daniel in his conduct of government affairs, but they were unable to do so. They could find no corruption in him, because he was trustworthy and neither corrupt nor negligent. Finally these men said, “We will never find any basis for charges against this man Daniel unless it has something to do with the law of his God.”

Observation:

Daniel was a man of great integrity. The life he lived was absolutely above reproach so much so that his detractors were unable to find even one charge against him. They could find no corruption in him at all! Even though Daniel at this time was one of the most influential people in King Darius' kingdom, he did not allow his power to corrupt him. So many times we see in our own culture today a new politician starts out with principles and as soon as they come into power, they begin to become influenced by the world around them and then begin to compromise. Not Daniel! Even though he was in the world, as Jesus would say later in John 15:19, he was not part of the world. Eventually Daniel would have an such an effect on the king because of his integrity that the king (and his entire kingdom) would begin to worship Daniel's God, the true God!

Application:

People are watching me! They are asking themselves, "Does Justin really walk the talk?" I hope that they would say I am walking the the talk! There is power in integrity! It gives credibility to my words and actions! People nowadays are very good detectors of counterfeits, but one thing is for sure: people know the REAL thing when they see it! I want to be the REAL thing and bring glory to my God so that others may see Him in me and come to know Him for themselves!

Prayer:

Lord, I pray that by Your grace and the Holy Spirit You would cause me to be a man of integrity! Help me to live a life completely above reproach so that I may cause believers and unbelievers to fear You! Forgive me for the times that I have failed in this respect. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.

2011-09-20T20:20:00.000-07:00

Sept. 19's blog is just below this one.

Mike A. - September 18, 2011

Scripture:

Luke 1:30-38 30 But the angel said to her, "Do not be afraid, Mary, you have found favor with God. 31 You will be with child and give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus. 32 He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, 33 and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever; his kingdom will never end." 34 "How will this be," Mary asked the angel, "since I am a virgin?" 35 The angel answered, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God. 36 Even Elizabeth your relative is going to have a child in her old age, and she who was said to be barren is in her sixth month. 37 For nothing is impossible with God." 38 "I am the Lord's servant," Mary answered. "May it be to me as you have said." Then the angel left her.

Observation:

When God sent the angel to Mary, she was afraid. It didn't take very many words to calm her. When she was told of God's plan, her only question was how can this be I an a virgin. After only a few words, Mary is convinced and says, "I am the Lord's servant, let it be to me as you have said." Mary has so much faith and trust in God; she puts the secular aside and trusts fully in God and what His plans are.

Application:

How awesome it would be to be confronted by an angel of God and told what plan He has for me. But what would I do, react, or even believe? Has He already tried to expose His plan, through a down and out person that needed someone to talk to? Or maybe I had an overwhelming urge to pray with a certain person and didn't believe I heard right. How many times did I pass up what God had planned for me? Now is the time not to pass up what God may have planned for me. If Mary can believe she will have a baby, the Son of God, I should have enough faith in the small voice in my heart saying go pray for that person or go in this place and wait.

Prayer:

Lord, when I hear Your voice in my heart I pray for faith that I act and not put off what You want. I pray that I put off nothing You have for me, no matter how uncomfortable it may be for me. I love You, and I trust You, Father, Amen

2011-09-19T21:34:00.000-07:00

Marie A. - Sept. 19, 2011

Scripture:

Luke 2:8-14 8 And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. 9 An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. 11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. 12 This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger." 13 Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, 14 "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests."

Observation:

Shepherds in a field doing the work, tending to the flocks. Then God sends an angel to them, to share wonderful news. But they were afraid, As I would be. The angel said, "Don't be afraid, I bring good news."
What an awesome moment. To be humble, faithful shepherds just going about their daily chores, and you are picked to share the news that out Lord and Savor is born.
God continues to reveal His Son to us. And He continues to do miracles.It just seems like it's hard for us to see and notice them.

Application:

I will share my story of salvation with many. I will give God all the glory. I will pray for a divine appointment everyday to share the good news about Christ, to further the kingdom of God. And when miracles come my way, I will say thank You, Lord, big and small.

Prayer:

Lord I pray to have the faith that those shepherds had. I pray that I know that I know who You are and I can hear Your still small voice, or that I know that I know when You come bursting through the clouds in a reign of glory. Lord, I ask humbly for You to use me to do Your work here on earth. Thank You, Lord, for all the blessings in my life. You are a mighty, awesome God, and I love You, Amen.

2011-09-17T08:22:00.000-07:00

Chris S. – September 16, 2011

Scripture:

Psalm 128: 1-2 Blessed are all who fear the Lord, who walk in his ways. You will eat the fruit of your labor; blessings and prosperity will be yours.

Observation:

People who are in "awe" of Him, be very delighted because He is so great, compassionate, and caring. He is almighty, and through Him anything is possible. And if I obey His ways, I will be blessed and have prosperity beyond my wildest dreams.

Application:

What a great reminder of how my God loves me and has compassion for me. If I obey His ways and stay on the righteous path (as much as I can), He will continue to bless me and do things in my life that I cannot even fathom. Oh, what a wonderful God I serve.

Prayer:

Father, I thank You for the continued blessing You pour out in my life. Your compassion for me is so great that I can't even comprehend Your love for me. I am a child of Yours and what a wonderful thing that is. ~ If I may ask Lord, help my faith and walk with You become stronger each and every day. Allow me to be a risky Christian and share the Word and Gospel with people who do not know You. I adore You and love You with all of my heart and soul. Amen.

2011-09-16T10:31:00.000-07:00

Kim T. - September 15, 2011

Scripture:

Rev 20:14-15 Then Death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. This is the second death, the lake of fire. And if anyone’s name was not found written in the book of life, he was thrown into the lake of fire.

Observation:

The scripture before tells of the devil being thrown into the lake of fire. Wow, the end of the devil and hell! What a scene!

Application:

As I read the last eight words of verse 15, I immediately thought of my Grandpa, some of my neighbors and others. A sinking feeling came over me; this is really real and it’s really going to happen. The lake of fire was intended only for the devil and is no place for God’s creation. Oh, that I would have Christ’s love and get past myself to see these won for Him! That they, too, will know His wonderful love and spend eternity in the most glorious place that we cannot even begin to imagine.

Prayer:

Jesus, I need Your love. Help me to get past myself and learn how to love, love, love those whom You love. I need a love that cares enough about each one of these people. Jesusm win them; awaken them to Your beauty and deep love for them. Awaken my heart! Amen

2011-09-15T17:00:00.000-07:00

Kevin T. – September 14, 2011

Scripture:

Psalm 110:1-2 The LORD says to my Lord: "Sit at my right hand until I make your enemies a footstool for your feet." The LORD will extend your mighty scepter from Zion; you will rule in the midst of your enemies.

Observation:

David is declaring a prophetic word regarding the future of Israel as a nation and the rule of the Messiah.

Application:

I began to ponder what it must have been like for David to hear this word. Clearly he is talking of another Ruler when he refers to the "Lord said to my Lord" and not himself. Thousands of years before the coming of the Messiah David is given this insight. The amazing thing is that most of David's psalms are psalms of worship and praise. David is not generally considered a prophet, but being a man of worship, he couldn't help but hear the Lord's heart and thoughts. Insight into the Lord's thoughts is a natural outcome of being a person of worship and intimacy.

Prayer:

Lord, I desire to hear You and know You. I know it comes from being near You. Help me to become a person of greater intimacy with You that I may hear Your thoughts and know Your heart.

2011-09-14T09:32:00.000-07:00

Guest Blogger Lisa N. - September 13, 2011

Scripture:

Ezekiel 34:21-22 "Because you shove with flank and shoulder, batting all the weak sheep with your horns until you have driven them away, I will save my flock, and they will no longer be plundered. I will judge between one sheep and the other."

Observation:

Even though the Lord loves us and protects us because we are His sheep, it does not give us a place of judgement and cruelty amongst ourselves.

Application:

As a flock, we are family. We are to love and protect one another just as we do our loved ones at home. No one gets left behind, no one is too small. Part of God's commitment to us is the duty we have to one another. Yes, He will protect us and provide for us, but He does that THROUGH us. Protect each other. Look out for one another. Lift up your flock in prayer and everyday life. Encourage each sheep you encounter. Even if that sheep doesn't drink from the same watering hole or sleep under the same shady tree, every human being is a lamb of God. We just need to bring our flock closer together and therefore closer to Him.
Love an unfamiliar sheep today. And if they ask why you helped them, tell them your Shepherd sent you. And then, tell no one else.

Prayer:

Dear Heavenly Father, As I venture out to pasture today, looking for a lost sheep to be loved, please give me your eyes so that I may do for You. If it's something as little as saying a kind word or as big as taking a sparrow back to the nest, give me the strength and understanding that I am doing Your will. Guide me in my heart today, Lord. Be on the tip of my tongue, so that I may tell of Your love and kindness. I can do this! And if I should talk myself down, remind me I was once a lost sheep of Yours, too. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen."

2011-09-12T13:40:00.000-07:00

Barbara G. - September 10, 2011

Scripture:

Lamentations 3:31-33 For men are not cast off by the Lord forever. Though He brings grief, He will show compassion, so great is His unfailing love. For He does not willingly bring affliction or grief to the children of men.

Observation:

I have a Lord who loves me enough to discipline me, even though it is hard for Him to do. The words that caught my eye were "does not willingly." God is not out to get me; He loves me, and out of that love is required to discipline me.

Application:

I find at times that I tend to forget that the Lord loves me and wants the best for me even when I have sinned. When I sin, I usually feel that I have to pay the price for that sin and will beat myself up about it or be harder on myself for committing it. These verses though are talking about a Lord who loves me and desires to show compassion on me even in the midst of my sin. He doesn't seek to discipline me to make me pay, but out of a love for me. And is willing to forgive me, if I ask, without any cost to me at times besides a repentant heart.

Prayer:

Lord, thank You that You paid the price for my sins. Help me to remember that my sins are paid for! All that is required from me is a repentant heart. Father, help me to remember that I can't earn Your forgiveness--I just have to receive it. Help me to receive Your love and grace for me. Amen and amen.

2011-09-12T13:37:00.000-07:00

Brook B. - September 9, 2011

Scripture:

Obadiah 1 This is what the Sovereign Lord says about Edom - We have heard a message from the Lord: An envoy was sent to the nations to say, "Rise, and let us go against her for battle" -

Observation:

God spoke to this one man and gave him quite the message: a very sad, direct, strong message to go into battle. And he spoke it to one man to give to the nations.

Application:

I am not even available enough to God to hear Him tell me what to do about my day to day responsibilities, He would never be able to tell me something to pass on to nations. My heart is to be a world changer. To effect the people around me, and for them to be able to see Jesus in me so much that they want what I have, but that is not happening around me. Why? I'm not available to God. I'm not giving my heart to Him daily for Him to guide me and truly use me.

Prayer:

Father, I know You love me and I love You so dearly. Forgive me for not being available to You. Forgive me for not stopping and inviting You into my every minute! I'm here asking for You to make a true change in me. Help me to stop every morning and make You the driver, so that when You're ready to send a message to the nations I'll be ready. I love You and thank You for Your Sovereignty. Your daughter, Amen.

2011-09-08T16:34:00.000-07:00

Guy D. - September 7, 2011

Scripture:

2 Kings 25:9 He set fire to the temple of the LORD, the royal palace and all the houses of Jerusalem. Every important building he burned down.

Observation:

More than likely, the Ark of Covenant was in the temple and burned along with it. The Lord cared more about His people than about the His temple or the Ark, His dwelling place. He sacrificed the articles of worship to turn the hearts of His people. Even in the Old Testament, God values relationship over religious rite.

Application:

I think that the majority of people can see the truth that God is not an inanimate object. When we just go through the motions, however, it is the same as if we were worshiping a rock. It neglects the relationship and God is not in it, just as He was not in the articles of worship.

Prayer:

Lord, it is only by Your grace that I have relationship with You. Help me not to neglect it by just going through the motions. The value in sacrament comes only though knowing You are at the center. Allow me to be mindful of Your presence all the days of my life.

2011-09-08T08:27:00.000-07:00

Misty T. - September 6, 2011

Scripture:

Revelation 11:17 - “We give thanks to you, Lord God Almighty, the One who is and who was, because you have taken your great power and have begun to reign.

Observation:

They were rejoicing in the Lord because of who He is and all that He has done...and that He will reign forever.

Application:

Rejoicing in Heaven is something that I think about often. To see the promises of God fulfilled brings such an amazing JOY! When I feel His presence when I worship here on earth, I know that it will not compare to what I will experience worshiping at His feet forever.

Prayer:

Lord, Thank You for Your promises..and that I get to spend eternity with You. Thank You for being so faithful..for being the same yesterday, today and forever.

2011-09-06T09:09:00.000-07:00

Justin T. - September 5, 2011

Scripture:

Ezekiel 28:11-19 The word of the LORD came to me: “Son of man, take up a lament concerning the king of Tyre and say to him: ‘This is what the Sovereign LORD says: "You were the seal of perfection, full of wisdom and perfect in beauty. You were in Eden, the garden of God; every precious stone adorned you: carnelian, chrysolite and emerald, topaz, onyx and jasper, lapis lazuli, turquoise and beryl. Your settings and mountings were made of gold; on the day you were created they were prepared. You were anointed as a guardian cherub, for so I ordained you. You were on the holy mount of God; you walked among the fiery stones. You were blameless in your ways from the day you were created till wickedness was found in you. Through your widespread trade you were filled with violence, and you sinned. So I drove you in disgrace from the mount of God, and I expelled you, guardian cherub, from among the fiery stones. Your heart became proud on account of your beauty, and you corrupted your wisdom because of your splendor. So I threw you to the earth; I made a spectacle of you before kings. By your many sins and dishonest trade you have desecrated your sanctuaries. So I made a fire come out from you, and it consumed you, and I reduced you to ashes on the ground in the sight of all who were watching. All the nations who knew you are appalled at you; you have come to a horrible end and will be no more."

Observation:

At first glance, the prophecy in Ezekiel 28:1-19 seems to refer to the human King of Tyre. Tyre was known for arrogantly building its wealth by exploiting its neighbors. Ancient writers referred to the the city of Tyre as a city filled with unscrupulous merchants. Spiritually speaking, Tyre was a center of religious idolatry and sexual immorality. In the Bible, Tyre is most often rebuked for its pride, brought on by its great wealth and strategic location. Ezekiel 28:1-19 seems to be a particularly strong indictment against the King of Tyre in the prophet Ezekiel’s day, rebuking him for his insatiable pride and greed. At the same time, some of the descriptions in Ezekiel 28:1-19 go far beyond any mere human king. In no sense could an earthly king claim to be “in Eden,” or “the anointed cherub who covers,” or “on the holy mountain of God.” As a result of this, most Bible interpreters believe that Ezekiel 28:1-19 is a dual prophecy, comparing the pride of the King of Tyre to the pride of Satan, that led to his fall. Before his fall, Satan was indeed a beautiful creature. He was perhaps the most beautiful and powerful of all the angels. The phrase “guardian cherub” possibly indicates that Satan was the angel who “guarded” God’s presence. This exalted position led to Satan’s fall, however, as he allowed pride and arrogance to consume him. Rather than giving God the glory for creating him so beautifully, Satan took pride in himself, thinking that he himself was responsible for his exalted status. Satan’s sinful rebellion resulted in God casting Satan from His presence, and will, eventually, result in God condemning Satan to the lake of fire for all of eternity. Similarly, the King of Tyre was prideful due to the riches of Tyre. Rather than recognizing God’s sovereignty, the King of Tyre attributed Tyre’s riches to his own wisdom and strength. Not satisfied with his extravagant position, the King of Tyre sought more and more, resulting in Tyre taking advantage of other nations, expanding its own wealth at the expense of others. But just as Satan’s pride led to his fall, and will eventually lead to his eternal destruction, so will the city of Tyre lose its wealth, power, and status.

Application:

Pride is a sin that has been around since the beginning. Even though this sin has existed since the beginning, it often seems to escape notice in many Christian settings. On Sunday mornings the preacher may address sins such as fornication, addictions, or idolatry while many times one of the most egregious sins, pride, goes unnoticed. Pride is such a slippery sin that somehow it managed to find it's way into the most Holy place, heaven itself! People can be proud about anything from their job, their family, to their relationship with God. God is clear about where He stands when it comes to pride, He opposes anybody who has it (James 4:6)! Pride is not always noticed externally, rather it's a condition of the heart which only the Holy Spirit can reveal through the Word and prayer (Hebrews 4:12). I have to be EXTREMELY watchful that the seeds of pride never take root in my heart and when it does, quickly snuff it out. Pride is a sin that the bible says is common to everyone (1 John 2:16) meaning that no matter what level you are at in your Christian walk if you are not careful, pride can rear its ugly head!

Prayer:

Lord Jesus, guard my heart against pride today! Help me not to boast in anything except my ABSOLUTE dependence upon You for everything! I choose today to remove myself from the center of my own universe and ask You to take Your rightful place upon the throne of my heart! In Jesus' name. Amen.

2011-09-02T22:17:00.000-07:00

Crystal W. - September 2, 2011

Scripture:

Revelation 7:9 After this I looked and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and in front of the Lamb. They were wearing white robes and were holding palm branches in their hands.

Observation:

I wanted to understand what the palm branches were all about here. I researched a bit and found that it represented a festive occasion. As I looked back in the Old Testament and an example in the New Testament, I found that this was very true and it brought a brighter vision to this set of scripture for me. As if being before the Lamb wasn't a bright vision already!

Application:

I love the vision that comes to me of many people dressed in white as though they are purified in the blood of the Lamb and waving beautiful palm tree branches before the Lord, singing praises to Him...and this being a festive occasion! It's like a party of palms! It's like the best time EVER singing praises to the Lord and getting to wave palm branches at the same time. Palm trees are my second favorite tree (weeping willow being the first). How awesome is the idea of watching Jesus ride into my town on a donkey and me run to the street grabbing a palm branch on the way and hoot and holler as He rides by saying "Praise the Lord for He is Holy and Worthy to be praised!" Then a party busts out in the streets...

Prayer:

Lord I thank You that I get to have fun while praising You. I am so grateful for the excitement I am allowed to express about You. I have feelings inside me that when they come out who knows what it looks like, but You don't care and You just enjoy every tone and beat of my praise to You. I am so thrilled that You accept my praise and the ways I get to show You. I love that I can dance, waive a palm branch, jump, clap, move all around, spin, smile, kneel, bow, lay before Your feet, raise my hands and even cry at times for the joy I have in You. What a freedom to have a festive occasion just for You. I pray You open up more ways I can worship You in my life. I pray You continue to show me things that I never would have known would be a form of praise to You. Expand my life, Lord, in this area and create an atmosphere or worship all around me. I pray that I learn to do that, God. Amen.

2011-09-01T22:53:00.000-07:00

Sheila W. - September 1, 2011

Scripture:

Ezekiel 16:6 "'Then I passed by and saw you kicking about in your blood, and as you lay there in your blood I said to you, "Live!"

Observation:

This allegory is about Jerusalem, about her being nothing and God making her something, then she is unfaithful to Him.

Application:

I remember reading this passage last year and it making such an incredible impression on me. I was NOTHING and God saw me and had compassion on me. Not only did He clean me up, clothe me, feed me, and take care of me, but He also made me His own--as if I could ever be in His league! :) When I think about that filthy baby lying there, meaning nothing to anyone...and then she gets to become the bride of Christ, I still can't wrap my mind around that! How incredible is THAT?!

Prayer:

Oh Father, gracious, loving Father, I love You so much. Thank You for making me Your own, for loving me enough to spread your robe over me. I feel so protected and safe in You. I pray that I never forsake You or be unfaithful to You, although I know that I fail daily. You deserve so much. Thank You, my Father. I love You.

2011-08-30T20:30:00.000-07:00

Justin T. - August 30, 2011

Scripture:

Ezekiel 11:19 I will give them an undivided heart and put a new spirit in them; I will remove from them their heart of stone and give them a heart of flesh.

Observation:

The people of God had become distracted by their worship of their different idols and therefore divided their affections toward God. Jesus says in Matthew 6:24: “No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other." God's plan was to give them a heart transplant! A new heart that was undivided by idol worship. A heart that was focused on the one and only true God! In order to give them a new heart, God had to remove the heart that was already there: a hard, calloused, and indifferent heart. The Bible says in Hebrews 3:7-8: "So, as the Holy Spirit says: 'Today, if you hear his voice, do not HARDEN your hearts...'." The Bible instructs us that our hearts become hard whenever we do not listen to the voice of God when He speaks to us. God's plan was to remove this heart and give them a new heart that was responsive to His voice and commands as Jesus said in John 10:27 when He said: "My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me."

Application:

God's plan for me is to have an undivided and responsive heart toward Him. A heart that is fully devoted to Him. If Jesus is not the #1 priority in my life, it is a good sign that I have a divided heart and in need of a heart transplant. I shouldnt wait, like the people in Ezekiel, for some calamity to come upon me in order for this change to happen, but today, when I hear His voice, I should repent and ask God to change me! When I do this, God is willing and able to remove my calloused and indifferent heart and give me a soft and responsive heart.

Prayer:

Lord, search my heart today by your Holy Spirit! If there is any division in my heart, I repent! Please forgive me! Please change me as only You can! Give me today a undivided and responsive heart! In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

2011-08-29T17:52:00.000-07:00

Sherrill W. – August 28, 2011

Scripture:

Ezekiel 3:12-15 Then the Spirit lifted me up, and I heard behind me a loud rumbling sound - may the glory of the Lord be praised in his dwelling place! -- the sound of the wings of the living creatures brushing against each other and the sound of the wheels beside them, a loud rumbling sound. The spirit then lifted me up and took me away, and I went in bitterness and in the anger of my spirit, with the strong hand of the Lord upon me. I came to the exiles who lived at Tel Abib near the Kebar River. And there, where they were living, I sat among them for seven days - overwhelmed.

Observation:

Ezekiel had just had his vision of God's perfection and the Lord telling him to speak to his countrymen even though he knew they would not listen to him. The juxtaposition of "the glory of the Lord" that he had just witnessed, and the coming frustration of knowing that he was to speak to "the hardened and obstinate" to no avail was so much for him that he was overwhelmed. But, what God wanted, and what Ezekiel did - was to obey!

Application:

Randy's message this morning mirrors this passage. A "dove" experience followed by a "desert." As much as Ezekiel was overwhelmed by it all, he knew that the Lord was with him ("the strong hand of the Lord was with me"). When I get "overwhelmed" I must remember that above all - be obedient to the Lord - He is always with me.

Prayer:

Lord, May I be ever obedient to Your calls to me. However small and subtle or loud and insistent, take away my hesitancy, take away my pride. For Your glory, I am Yours. Thank You, Lord, Amen.

2011-08-29T17:48:00.000-07:00

Ray W. – Aug 27, 2011

Scripture:

Revelations 1:3 Blessed is the one who reads the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear it and take to heart what is written in it, because the time is near.

Observation:

John writes the prophecy of Jesus Christ in Revelations telling us if we understand and take to heart His prophecy we will be on the winning side when He returns. We don’t know when “the time is near” is so we can and must be ready at all times. There will be no second chance to get right when He returns.
As we get older we understand this much better. When we were younger we thought there was all the time in the world to get right with Jesus. Understanding the above explains why you need to be right every day because when He does return there is no “time out” - no time left for a “mulligan” or “do over.”

Application:

Clearly, I need to be prepared every day – focused on Jesus. I need a daily relationship with Him and to “take heart.” I want to be in His kingdom eternally. He is my Savior.

Prayer:

Lord, I work to be prepared to meet You and to be accepted into Your kingdom. Guide me down the right path, keep me in the light and rebuke me when I fail. In Your holy name I ask. Amen.

2011-08-27T20:51:00.000-07:00

Madeline D.- August 26, 2011

Scripture:

Jeremiah 51:15-16 He made the Earth by His power; He founded the world by His wisdom and stretched out the Heavens by His understanding. When He thunders, the waters in the heavens roar; He makes clouds rise from the ends of the Earth. He sends lightning with the rain and brings out the wind from His storehouses.

Observation:

The author is describing the enormity and awesomeness of God. There is a lot of war and strife going on between the Israelites and other tribes, and I am sure that there were doubts amongst the the people. God promised that He would take care of His children, and this is just a subtle reminder of the God they serve.

Application:

I love that the Bible has these verses that describe the power of God. It's not just "your God is soooooo great," but it's "I, your God, choose where the lightning bolts shall go and where the rain may land." It makes it easier to give my life over to God. If He pays so much detail to little things that we take for granted, then how much more does He care for the things in my life? Knowing this has made the trials in my life more bearable.

Prayer:

Father God, thank You for being the almighty director of my life. I have nothing to fear when You are in control. I pray that I will keep my eyes focused on You and Your promises when things grow dark. I love You.

2011-08-26T23:41:00.000-07:00

Guy D. - August 25, 2011

Scripture:

2 John 1:5 And now, dear lady, I am not writing you a new command but one we have had from the beginning. I ask that we love one another.
2 John 1:12 I have much to write to you, but I do not want to use paper and ink. Instead, I hope to visit you and talk with you face to face, so that our joy may be complete.

Observation:

2 John is a very short book. John says that he has a lot to say, so what he includes in the letter must have been of utmost importance. A paragraph in a short letter is dedicated to love being shared in the body of
Christ.

Application:

Division between me and a brother divides the body of Christ. By the same token, when love is shared between us, it unifies the body and brings glory to Christ. If by grace I am able to let things slide, it shows the work of the Father in me to the world. This is can be even more true when I serve those around me out of love.

Prayer:

Jesus, thank You for the gift of grace and mercy that You have given. Let Your grace and mercy flow through me to testify to Your greatness.

2011-08-25T08:44:00.000-07:00

Due to the blogsite format, the next three blogs are out of order. Please read further for blogs dated August 21 & 22.

Justin T. - August 20, 2011

Scripture:

"But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin."- 1 John 1:7

Observation:

When we walk in the light we have fellowship with Jesus, which leaves the question, when we walk in the darkness, who do we have fellowship with? With whoever it is, it is certainly NOT Jesus. Walking in the light gives us fellowship with Jesus and the blood of Jesus washes away all sin.

Application:

To hide our sin in darkness has been the response of mankind since Adam and Eve. Every time we try to conceal our sin from God it leads to disastrous results, therefore I am to walk in the light as He is in the light because I am not alone. He is there to cleanse me of not just some but ALL sin!

Prayer:

Lord I choose today to walk in the light even as You are in the light. Amen.

2011-08-25T08:38:00.000-07:00

Crystal W. - August 22, 2011

Scripture:

1 John 3:11 For this is the message that you heard from the beginning, that we should love one another,

Observation:

As I read this I just was deeply reminded that its been this way since the beginning of time! Love...love...and more love. We are to love one another and keep loving one another. It doesnt stop. Its not a "stopping" love, its a never ending love. Since the beginning of time its been the message. It says it right here!

Application:

So how can I love others? This was perfect because as I washed each car, smiled and coaxed each car into the line, explained what we were doing and why....I was so blessed by men and women not understanding the "no money" idea of the 100% free car wash we were putting on. They wanted to give Pepsi, ice cream or just flat out money. We wouldn't let them. Why? Because we just love them. We love them before even knowing them. We love them because we "get to" love them not because we "have to" love them. The focus of the church right now sums it up: Love God, Love Others and Live It Out. This scripture matches perfectly.

Prayer:

Father, You are so awesome and wonderful. You made love in the beginning and we get to just carry that out. Help me, Father, to love others as your Word tells me to. Show me, Lord, and change me from deep within to truly have a heart of love and not judgment or expectations. I desire to just love each one as You do. I appreciate the love that You have for me. I am Your child and You call me by name. This should be shown to others by me. I should love them and call them by name, respectfully. I love You, Lord. Amen

2011-08-25T08:31:00.000-07:00

Clint W. - August 21, 2011

Scripture:

1 John 2: 17 The world and its desires pass away, but the man who does the will of God lives forever.

Observation:

This verse is a fantastic motivator. The things that the world has to offer are all only temporary, but the people that do what God wants them to do will last forever. John has set this up with several verses about loving our brothers and staying away from the sinful lusts of the world.

Application:

This verse makes me want to do the will of God every chance I get. I think that I can get very wrapped up in asking God to bless whatever I'm doing rather than searching for what He would have me do. I want to be in the middle of what He is doing rather than trying to get Him to surround what I'm doing. Not just so that I live forever in Heaven, but also so that the things I do in my time on earth live on beyond the years I am given. I think about the author of this letter, John, in that not only is his soul living on forever, but his words and deeds have lived on forever because he devoted himself to the will of God.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank You that You have a plan and direction for my life. I am so grateful to know that my steps are ordered by You, and that You go before me in each of those steps. I pray that I will recognize Your will and stay on the path that You have laid out for me. Continue to guide my path as I continue to give You more and more control of my life. Amen.

2011-08-20T22:09:00.000-07:00

Marie A. - August 19, 2011

Scripture:

John 21:21-23 21 When Peter saw him, he asked, “Lord, what about him?”22 Jesus answered, “If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you? You must follow me.” 23 Because of this, the rumor spread among the believers that this disciple would not die. But Jesus did not say that he would not die; he only said, “If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you?”

Observation:

Here Peter is asking about how John is going to die, and Jesus is letting Peter know that he needs only to be concerned about himself. Jesus did not say John would not die He said, "If I want him to remain alive until I return." I think they were busy worrying about what everybody else was doing instead of taking care of their own faith.

Application:

I can honestly say I've been in Peter's shoes many times: comparing my life to others; making excuses if my faith isn't where it should be; or even questioning God about His fairness. "Why are they so blessed? Look at what I do." Well, I guess it's true--the buck stops here. Time to get real and be true to God and myself. Stop playing by my rules and start playing by God's. That's my plan of attack.

Prayer:

Okay, God, so here it is--the hard plain truth. I need You, and I need to stop pretending. I pray that I continue to grow in You so there is less of me. I don't want to be that person anymore. I know I have come a long way, but there are times it sneaks back in, and in those moments please help me to remember this verse. Thank You, Lord, for all You are. In Christ I pray this. Amen

2011-08-19T07:47:00.000-07:00

Mike A. - August 18, 2011

Scripture:

John 20: 25-29 25 So the other disciples told him, “We have seen the Lord!” But he said to them, “Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe.” 26 A week later his disciples were in the house again, and Thomas was with them. Though the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you!” 27 Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.” 28 Thomas said to him, “My Lord and my God!” 29 Then Jesus told him, “Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.”

Observation:

The disciples of Jesus told Thomas they had seen Jesus, and he would not believe until he actually saw Jesus with his own eyes. Even when Jesus stood in front of Thomas, he had to see Jesus' hand before he would believe. It doesn't seem to be any different now. We tell about Jesus, and His salvation for us, that because of Jesus we have forgiveness of sins and a place in heaven with Father, and we get that look, "what are you talking about?"

Application:

How to get through to an un-believers is hard. For me, what helps is reading the Bible daily. It helps to find the right words to say as well. Praying, for me, helps in talking to people, too.

Prayer:

Thank You, Father, for Your gift of life and forgiveness of my sins. I pray, Lord, that as I talk to people, Your written Word comes through me with a believable confidence of Jesus and how He can and will change the outcome of their lives. In Jesus' name I pray this. Amen.

2011-08-18T20:50:00.000-07:00

Chris S. – August 17, 2011

Scripture:

Jeremiah 25:7 "But you did not listen to me," declares the Lord, "and you have provoked me with what your hands have made, and you have brought harm to yourselves."

Observation:

This chapter records the prophecy of Jeremiah during which he had continuously pleaded with Judah for their repentance and whole-hearted return unto the worship of their true God. Judah never listened to him. Judah's day of grace was no longer, and God could no longer have mercy on this nation. The time of judgment was at hand!

Application:

This makes me think about my posture in life and balance of my priorities. Are they in line with God? Have I strayed off the righteous path and become ignorant to His ways? This verse has such direction for my life personally right now.

Prayer:

Father, I am so thankful for You and the things that You do and have done for me. I am nothing without You. I thank You for putting this verse in my life today as I know it was to recalibrate me to You. Thank You, Father.

2011-08-17T10:59:00.000-07:00

Lisa S. – August 16, 2011

Scripture:

John 18, 30-31 30 "If he were not a criminal," they replied, "we would not have handed him over to you." 31 Pilate said, "Take him yourselves and judge him by your own law." "But we have no right to execute anyone," the Jews objected.

Observation:

They already had their judgment passed, just didn’t want to be the ones to say it. They needed someone else to do the dirty work.

Application:

I realize I pass judgment often even if I don’t say it out loud. The saying “If you don’t have anything nice to say don’t say anything at all” now seems not so nice itself. Then we are waiting for others to say it and then agree with “I was thinking the same thing,” isn’t that just as bad as saying it? Like the Jews wanting Pilate to be the one to pass the execution?

Prayer:

Father, forgive me for the judgments I pass on others in my thoughts, not just deeds. You see all and know my heart, Lord. Help me to keep not only my actions but my intentions clean. Teach me to love like You, Lord! In Jesus' name, Amen

2011-08-17T09:57:00.000-07:00

Kim T. - Aug 15, 2011

Scripture:

John 17:15-17 I do not ask that you take them out of the world, but that you keep them from the evil one. They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth.

Observation:

Jesus prays for His disciples that God would keep them and that they would be sanctified through the Word. Jesus isn’t afraid that His disciples will not make it, asking God to just take them now. Jesus is setting a standard of faith for His people to trust the Father. Trust Him that we can live this Christian life free from the world (that is the ungodly system and sin).

Application:

At times I can be overwhelmed and fear because of the evil that is in our world today. I can fear for myself, husband, kids and others; wondering how we will successfully live out our purposes in the Lord. These of course are times when my eyes are not on Jesus and what His Spirit has already done in our lives. I can feel fear when I’m not in the Word and my mind is left to the influences of the air. I love how Jesus asks the Father to sanctify the disciples in truth; which is the Word (written and spoken). God’s Word sanctifies me and brings me so much life!

Prayer:

Father, thank You, thank You, thank You for Your Word. Help me to trust You, that You alone are perfectly capable of keeping us and prospering us in this life. Amen.

2011-08-15T20:02:00.000-07:00

Kevin T. – August 14, 2011

Scripture:

Jeremiah 17:7-8 Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord and whose trust is the Lord. For He will be like a tree planted by the water, that extends its roots by a stream and will not fear when the heat comes; but its leaves will be green, and it will not be anxious in the year of drought nor cease to yield fruit.

Observation:

This scripture comes sandwiched right between a bunch of passages regarding the judgment Israel will suffer for forsaking the Lord and following idols, and directly after a passage regarding a man being cursed for trusting in mankind. Even in Israel's rebellion the Lord continued to show them the good way and extend mercy to them.

Application:

This passage is amazing and is completely full of promise for anyone who desires to live a Godly life. The answers to all my struggles reside in simply trusting the Lord and drawing on His life. The imagery is vivid, showing me that even in drought I can be confident that my source of life is abundant, and I will continue to produce fruit.

Prayer:

Lord, make me THAT man who trusts You; that I would have my roots deep in the soil beside Your river; that I would produce fruit and glorify Your name in a world of drought. Amen

2011-08-14T23:55:00.000-07:00

Guest Blogger Annica J. - August 13, 2011

Scripture:

John 15:1-2 I am the true vine and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch that doesn't produce fruit and he prunes the branches that do bear fruit so they will produce even more.

Observation:

This scripture was a good reminder for me that God prunes those that are bearing fruit. In order for us to do more, God must prune us so that we can produce an abundance of fruit. If He weren't taking the time to prune me, then I should be concerned, instead of the other way around.

Application:

I shouldn't feel like I've done something wrong or could've done something different when I'm faced with challenges; instead, I need to thank God for pruning me. Recently when faced with a trial, I started questioning what I could've done wrong and where in my walk with God I had grown weak that was causing the situation. After reading this scripture and through prayer, God revealed to me that this trial was about refining me because I was listening.....not that I had gotten off base in my faith in Him. If I am never pruned, I won't be able to grow and produce more fruit.

Prayer:

Lord, thank You for hearing my prayer and showing me what You are doing in my life. Thank You for taking the time to prune me so that I can produce more fruit for You. I am so grateful to be connected to You so that I can be a vessel for Your kingdom.

2011-08-13T22:39:00.000-07:00

Susie J. – July 12, 2011

Scripture:

Jeremiah 11:3b Tell them that this is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says: 'Cursed is the man who does not obey the terms of this covenant—4b the terms I commanded your forefathers when I brought them out of Egypt, out of the iron-smelting furnace.' I said, 'Obey me and do everything I command you, and you will be my people, and I will be your God. 7 From the time I brought your forefathers up from Egypt until today, I warned them again and again, saying, "Obey me."
John 14:15 "If you love me, you will obey what I command.” 21 Whoever has my commands and obeys them, he is the one who loves me. He who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I too will love him and show myself to him." 23 Jesus replied, "If anyone loves me, he will obey my teaching. My Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him. 24 He who does not love me will not obey my teaching. These words you hear are not my own; they belong to the Father who sent me.

Observation:

Obey! God is trying to get His point across to the House of Judah and the House of Israel, and then again to the disciples. This is a commandment with many ramifications: Either be cursed and have disaster fall on them or be blessed and be loved by the Father.

Application:

It would seem obvious which way we should go, but we lose sight of the truth when, just like Jer. 11:8 says, we instead follow the stubbornness of our evil hearts. This is the reason I need to be in the Word constantly. My evil heart leads me down the road to disobedience and destruction.
The Holy Spirit in me (God's heart) reminds me to obey Him, which brings blessings, and the Father will love me. What an awesome promise. There is nothing better than being loved by the Father. I am so thankful for the reminders God gives us in His Word. It makes me love Him all the more.
When I am faced with tough decisions, I don’t have to rely on my evil heart, which would want to hide and protect me or my loved ones from possible pain, when that is the very thing God wants to use to help and free us. Instead, I can hear from Him and trust when He is telling me and obey. I don’t have to fear the outcome because it is not about me… it is about Him!

Prayer:

God, You are incredible. Your ways are higher than my ways, and You are always faithful. In that I can always trust. I place my evil heart in Your hands and allow You to change it to be like Yours. You are always faithful. I depend wholly on You, for You are always faithful, and You love Me, oh how You love me. Amen

2011-08-13T22:33:00.000-07:00

Mike J. – August 11, 2011

Scripture:

John 13: 34-35 A new command I give you. Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.

Observation:

Earlier in this chapter, Jesus washes the disciples' feet, and by doing so, He shows them what a true servant’s heart looks like by doing an act of true humbleness and love. And now He commands the disciples to love one another so that other people will see what acts of true love looks like after Jesus is gone to heaven.

Application:

I find it to be interesting that Jesus commanded the disciples to love one another. It wasn’t a suggestion, but a command to be followed. I feel that it is a command for us to follow everyday. Showing love to one another, especially people who don’t have a relationship with God is what we should strive to do.

Prayer:

Jesus, I pray that I can have the heart of a servant for You and that I will love others just as You commanded Your disciples. Amen

2011-08-11T15:22:00.000-07:00

Barbara G. - August 10, 2011

Scripture:

John 12:9-11 - Meanwhile a large crowd of Jews found out that Jesus was there and came, not only because of Him but also to see Lazarus, whom He had raised from the dead. So the chief priests made plans to kill Lazarus as well, for on account of him many of the Jews were going over to Jesus and putting their faith in Him.

Observation:

The miracle of Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead was causing many Jews to believe in Jesus. Therefore Lazarus became a target of the chief priests--getting rid of evidence.

Application:

This is another example to me that I don't just fight against flesh and blood, but the battles I face are spiritual ones. Lazarus had done nothing against the chief priests and yet they wanted him dead. His "crime" was living proof of the miracle Jesus performed. This put a target on his back. Satan hates anything that draws others' attention to Jesus. I have to remember that as a Christian I, too, have a target on my back. So as I face situations in my life, my focus has to be on the Lord so that I can see through the circumstances and not just try to fix them, realizing that I am not "fighting" people--but it is usually a spiritual battle that I face. Therefore it requires a different plan of attack--different weapons--in order to be victorious in each situation I face.

Prayer:

Father, this life can be so hard at times! Jesus, thank You that You always place Yourself between me and the target on my back. Help me to keep my focus on You and not on the circumstances that I face. May my life bring You glory! Amen.

2011-08-09T20:50:00.000-07:00

Brook B. - August 9, 2011

Scripture:

John 11:40 Then Jesus said, "Did I not tell you that if you believed, you would see the glory of God?"

Observation:

Jesus is telling Martha what He had told her possibly many times before, to believe in Him and He will show her marvelous things. He's referring to raising Lazarus from the dead in this passage, but I'm sure there were many other things in her life He was referring to at that moment.

Application:

I am learning so much right now about believing God and all of His Word, not just believing in Him, but who He is and what He has promised me. This scripture takes that to a new level for me. Not only does He have a plan for me, a perfect plan, but it's full of His glory. If I will trust Him with my whole life, my whole being, I will get to see His glory in my life. He will show me things that I would never dream possible, and all I have to do is surrender my will and believe that He will do the things He has said He will do. It shouldn't be that hard to believe in someone who has never lied to me, never gone back on His word, never tricked me or taken me for granted. He actually has a whole plan for my life. It's already mapped out in His mind, and with all my heart that is what I want to see.

Prayer:

My Lord Jesus, thank You for Your simple truths. I believe You Lord; show me Your glory. Help me surrender my will daily and look to You for guidance and strength. You are my source and I will look to You for all I need. I trust You with my future, and want my plans to turn into Your plans. Thank You, Lord, for being patient and sticking to Your Word. I love You. Amen.

2011-08-09T14:21:00.000-07:00

Guest Blogger Lisa N. - August 8, 2011

Scripture:

John 10: 9 “I am the gate: whoever enters through me will be saved. They will come in and go out and find pasture.”

Observation:

As the sheep go through the gate they are saved. They go in and find pasture. As we accept Christ and go through Him, not only are our souls saved, but life with Christ is easier. It is not easy, but easier. We are no longer afraid, because we know He protects us. We are no longer in need, because He provides for us. Yes, we may still fear in our earthly life, and yes, we may still need, but those feelings overcome us when we forget our life with Christ, like a sheep out in the pasture too far off from our flock. We forget we are protected. We need to come back to the flock (our congregation) and stay close to the Shepherd (Christ).

Application:

As long as we keep Christ in the foremost of our thoughts, we will remember He is our Shepherd and in always looking over us. As long as we stay close to the rest of our brothers and sisters in Christ, we will be reminded of His love and protection. We will be supported in our earthly fears. We will have strength in numbers. His numbers. His flock.

Prayer:

Lord, You have shown us time and again that through You we are saved, and that with You we are protected. Your truth in this is not only shown through Your Word, but many of us have experienced this time and time again. Maybe we need to be reminded, and that’s why You keep doing so. I thank You for Your pasture and the flock of brethren You have provided me. I pray I feel You next to me in my time of need and when I doubt or fear. I pray You whisper to me that I am Your sheep and should not wander. Keep me with Your flock, with Your Word. In Jesus' name, Amen.

2011-08-08T23:58:00.000-07:00

Sheila W. - August 7, 2011

Scripture:

John 9:11 He replied, "The man they call Jesus made some mud and put it on my eyes. He told me to go to Siloam and wash. So I went and washed, and then I could see."

Application:

Jesus had just healed this blind man's eyes and people around him were asking who had healed him. Later he was brought before the Pharisees who were angry that someone had healed on the Sabbath.

Observation:

I love this story. This poor man was blind, then healed, and he was put through the ringer for it! No one seemed happy for him, just upset that he had been healed on the Sabbath. For the love...anyway, what I like about this verse is that the man OBEYED. I wonder how many times I've been close to a victory or breakthrough and didn't take that last step--that last "go wash in the pool" step.

Prayer:

Father, help me to be more obedient to You. Whatever you tell me to do, help me to do it without hesitation. I want breakthroughs in my life, and I know that means more discipline, more sacrifice than what I'm giving now. I love You, Father, and I need You more than ever. Break me and use me. In Jesus' holy name, Amen.

2011-08-08T09:11:00.000-07:00

Misty T. - August 6, 2011

Scripture:

Habakkuk 2:2-3 2 Then the LORD answered me and said: “ Write the vision and make it plain on tablets, that he may run who reads it. 3 For the vision is yet for an appointed time; But at the end it will speak, and it will not lie. Though it tarries, wait for it; Because it will surely come, It will not tarry.

Observation:

The Lord gives us revelations and visions when we are in need. Faith comes from reading and hearing the Word of God. Be patient for it..God will fulfill His promises.

Application:

I read this verse last month and believe that God led me to it. There are so many things going on in my life that I was getting overwhelmed. Wondering..ok God, I've taken this test before...and I'm taking it again because...???? God's presence was so heavy when I read this verse, it assured me that He has a plan in all of this..whether I've been down this road or not. He's on His schedule, not mine. It encouraged me so much that I did actually "make it plain on tablets" ...I wrote it in my journal so that I'd have the reminder.

Prayer:

Lord, thank You for promises. I'm sorry that I second-guessed You and Your plans. I know that You are taking care of me..thank You for Your word in tough times...Thank you for knowing what's best for me!

2011-08-08T09:05:00.000-07:00

Sheila W. - August 5, 2011

Scripture:

John 7: 37-9 37 On the last and greatest day of the Feast, Jesus stood and said in a loud voice, "If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me and drink. 38 Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, streams of living water will flow from within him." 39 By this he meant the Spirit, whom those who believed in him were later to receive. Up to that time the Spirit had not been given, since Jesus had not yet been glorified.

Observation:

Jesus is speaking to the people gathered in Jerusalem for a huge feast. He's speaking something akin to a riddle because these people have no idea what He's talking about. He's referring to the coming of the Holy Spirit after His death, resurrection, and ascension.

Application:

I can't wrap my mind--ever--around God's perfection. This plan He created and unfolded is so incredible...He creates man, man sins, He plans to give His own Son for man's redemption, works out all of the details that goes into the prophecies of the Messiah and the fulfillment of them, and send the Holy Spirit to work within us. He's beyond words or expression.

Prayer:

Father, Your plan, Your creativity, Your perfection is so far beyond my comprehension. I humbly ask that You help me to always value who You are. I pray that the Holy Spirit continually pours through me and uses me to glorify You and give aid to establishing Your kingdom here on earth. I love You, Father. Thank You for loving me.

2011-08-05T13:56:00.000-07:00

Guest Blogger Randy W. - August 4, 2011

Scripture:

John 7:37-38 On the last and greatest day of the Feast, Jesus stood and said in a loud voice, "If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, streams of living water will flow from within him."

Observation:

This was at the end of the feast, and everyone was probably full of all the earthly food they could handle, yet Jesus stands up and says, "I have more for you, something that will make you different."

Application:

I can defintely get filled by the things from the world: full of food, fun, and possessions. They can never satisfy the appetite; instead, the appetite just gets bigger. When I drink of what Jesus Christ has for me, it is living, it continues to satisfy. Oh, I really do want more, not out of dissatisfaction, but a genuine desire to allow Him to flow through me.

Prayer:

Lord, thank You for allowing us to drink from a well that never runs dry, to be completely satisfied by the Holy Spirit. Help my spiritual capacity to be enlarged that more of the Holy Spirit may flow through me. Amen.

2011-08-04T14:16:00.000-07:00

Sheila W. - August 3, 2011

Scripture:

John 5:16 So, because Jesus was doing these things on the Sabbath, the Jewish leaders began to persecute him.17 In his defense Jesus said to them, "My Father is always at his work to this very day, and I too am working."

Observation:

The Jewish leaders couldn't stand that Jesus was doing miracles on the Sabbath day, a day that they believed a devout Jew did next to nothing. Jesus defends Himself by saying that God is at work, so He is, too. (This only elevated their hatred of Him.)

Application:

I've read this so many times, and yet this time it struck me as refreshingly odd that God Himself is at WORK. I always picture God just sitting and resting for some reason. He listens and wills things on my behald, but I've never pictured Him actually WORKING. Weird.

Prayer:

Father, do You really work for me? I pray through the blood of Your Son Jesus, and I know that it's through Him that I can access Your throne, but You are the giver of life, so that makes You proactive. I'm sorry for my misconception of You, Father. Help me to see who You are more clearly!

2011-08-03T16:39:00.000-07:00

Crystal W. - August 2, 2011

Scripture:

John 4:48 Then Jesus said to him, "Unless you people see signs and wonders, you will by no means believe."

Observation:

This is a portion of the "Jesus Heals the Official's Son" story. Jesus is speaking to the father who's son is close to death. The father is asking Jesus to come and heal his son. Jesus speaks this statement to him, the royal official says "Sir, come down before my child dies". Jesus then replies with "You may go. your son will live."

Application:

This speaks very loudly to me this week as I am reading in my Beth Moore study about Believing God...not believing in God but just Believing God. I have felt so many times that if only I would get to see a miraculous healing then it would increase my faith and belief. Its really not what I need. I truly need to just believe in my heart that I believe God is who He says He is. That should be good enough. Nevermind my "human" nature. I need to let my spirit man live louder than my flesh. I need to believe God before doubting and making excuses. I need to keep in my heart the truth and the reality of who Jesus is. I don't want a relationship based on "signs and wonders" but more on just the pure Word. The living Word, the true Word, the real Word and the guiding Word of God.

Prayer:

Father, I want to believe so please help my unbelief. I know that Your Word tells me who You are and I am taking it in and believing it. I believe You when You say that I should not fear and that I can cast my worries onto You and You will lift my burdens. I believe You when You say "Come all who are weary....and I will give You rest." I believe You when You say "I will never leave or forsake you." I believe You when You say that I am precious and chosen by You. Holy Father I pray that my faith increases moment by moment so that I do not need a sign or wonder to believe but that I am so close to You that I first believe then rejoice and praise You for the outcome. I love You Lord and I choose to believe, overcoming my unbelief. Amen

2011-08-01T21:41:00.000-07:00

Clint W. - August 1, 2011

Scripture:

John 3:16 For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.

Observation:

This was the first verse I ever memorized...and I'm sure I'm not the only one. Here Jesus is talking to Nicodemus about being born again. Jesus is laying out the plan of salvation for Him, and answering the questions that Nicodemus brings up.

Application:

Because this is such a commonly known verse, I think I often overlook exactly why it is so universally known. This verse sums up the entire purpose of Jesus Christ coming to earth, dying on the cross, and rising again. God has so loved ME that He gave His son's life so that I can spend eternity with Him in Heaven. I think the word "gave" hit me particularly different this time around. He didn't "send" or "loan" His son. Jesus wasn't borrowed from the Father - Jesus was given. What an amazing gift! God gave His one, and only, son to us as worthless humans so that we could find eternal salvation through Him.

Prayer:

Father God, thank You once again for giving Your Son to me. I am nothing in myself, but I am invincible with Jesus. Thank You for the gift of eternal life through His sacrifice. I pray that you will constantly remind me of this gift and give me the strength and courage to tell the world that I serve the only God that sent His only Son to earth so that I can have eternal life. Amen.

2011-07-30T08:38:00.000-07:00

Sheila W. - July 29, 2001

Scripture:

2 Peter 3:7, 9 7 By the same word the present heavens and earth are reserved for fire, being kept for the day of judgment and destruction of ungodly men. 9 The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.

Observation:

Peter is writing about future events, writing very prophetically about the future. The earth was destroyed once by water; next time it will be destroyed by fire. He's also writing, by the Holy Spirit's "hand," that God wants everyone to come to Him and repent. He doesn't want anyone to be destroyed and go to hell.

Application:

God wants me to be a witness for Him. Someday life as I know it will end, either by my own death or the coming of Christ (the latter is my hope:). I don't want anyone to go to hell, and knowing that God doesn't either, I know that He'll provide me with opportunities to share the Good News with others. He'll open up their hearts if I keep interceding for the lost.

Prayer:

Oh God, You know that this is my greatest passion. I believe it's Yours, too, for the lost to come to know You. Help me, God, to see those opportunities You give me to share Your love, and to say exactly what the Holy Spirit directs me to say. Convict their heart and bring them into Your kingdom. In Jesus' name, Amen.

2011-07-29T09:31:00.000-07:00

Ray W. – July 27, 2011

Scripture:

2 Peter 1:3-5 3 His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness. 4 Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature and escape the corruption in the world caused by evil desires.

Observation:

God gives us the power to grow in Him. By ourselves we become lost and in the dark. Through Him we participate in His divine nature and through Him we can escape the evils of a secular world. Our focused strength in Him protects us from Satan’s influence. Our focus must be on God and not on ourselves.

Application:

It is so easy to be focused on the material things and not God. I find that that to be too true in my life. I must keep reminding myself of what is important – it is not the boat and fishing or golf or whatever. My focus must be on God.

Prayer:

Father, through Your grace and the sacrifice of Jesus, I am offered an opportunity to be in Your divine kingdom. Let me not forget that You are my Shield and Savior. Your grace, Your Word, and Your Son are my true focus. Thank You for my blessings and my salvation. Amen.

2011-07-28T14:11:00.000-07:00

Madeline D. - July 26, 2011

Scripture:

Isaiah 49:8-9 This is what the Lord says: "In the time of My favor I will answer you, and in the day of salvation I will help you; I will keep you and will make you to be a covenant for the people, to restore the land and to reassign its desolate inheritances, 9 to say to the captives, ' Come to,' and to those in darkness 'Be free!'

Observation:

God is speaking to His chosen people of Israel, the ones that He has delivered and blessed so many times, reminding them not to give up hope or to turn away because He hasn't turned away or forgotten them. He tells them of His plans and blessing that He wants to pour out over them if they continue to endure for Him.

Application:

This sounds a lot like modern day to me. God blesses and graces us so many times and it often goes unnoticed. Or when we do notice and give God the praise and glory, about two days later we're worried about something else. I think that sometimes we underestimate God and think that our wants, needs, or desires are too big for Him to carry. But He is telling us that if we walk in His salvation we are in His favor! He wants to bless us and take care of us. All that He is asking for is our commitment and love. I can be free from worry, praise God!

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank You for caring for me. Thank You for blessing me even though I don't notice sometimes. Help me to be more sensitive to Your blessings and grace so that I may praise You and give You the glory. May I be attentive to Your voice and follow it wherever it may call me. Increase my faith and love for You. You are my everything. Amen.

2011-07-27T16:20:00.000-07:00

Guy D. - July 25, 2011

Scripture:

Isaiah 46:4,9 Even to your old age and gray hairs I am he, I am he who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you. 9 Remember the former things, those of long ago; I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like me.

Observation:

Who is like our God? What can compare to His goodness? This section got me thinking about the person-hood of God and the whole predestination argument (how can we have free will if God is all knowing?). Is it not possible for God to choose not to know? Jeremiah 31:34 it says that he forgets our sins. Just to be clear, this is just my hypothesis.

Application:

Since I was created with free will, I can use it for God's glory. Isaiah gives the perfect example of recognizing the Lord as my sustainer. By choosing to rest my dreams in His hands, it exalts Him. How great is it that I have that choice!

Prayer:

Lord, thank You for Your goodness and allowing me to worship You even though I am not worthy of it.

2011-07-25T19:59:00.000-07:00

Jean B. - July 24, 2011

Scripture:

1 Peter 3:18 for Christ also suffered once for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh but made alive by the Spirit.

Observation:

Christ suffered and died on the cross and rose from the dead for us, even though we did not deserve such a sacrifice. He did it because He loved us and He wanted us to be with Him.

Application:

Suffering is a part of being a Christian. But, am I going to suffer in my flesh, as I often do? Or do I follow the example of Christ and let the Spirit live in me and through me? I have to remind myself several times a day that this life I’m living is not mine. I want to love Him back by living by His example so His work may be accomplished.

Prayer:

Father, thank You for the sacrifice You paid on the cross for me. I can never repay You for what You’ve done. I want to serve You with all my heart, Lord. "Choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve," help me to do that because I can’t do it on my own. Thank You for the grace and mercy You’ve given me. Amen.

2011-07-24T22:08:00.000-07:00

Mike B. - July 23, 2011

Scripture:

1 Peter 1- 14-16 14- As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance. 15- But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do. 16- For it is written: “Be holy, because I am holy.”

Observation:

It is believed that Peter was in Rome when this was written. The “Christ-Ones” were being heavily persecuted as the Roman Empire attempted to eliminate them. He was later executed. He was encouraging the Church to stand firm and not slip back into the sinful ways they lived prior to being saved. God is holy, and that is the example that He wants us to follow, not matter what the circumstance we are in.

Application:

God set a very high example for us to follow. He is holy, merciful, just, loving. He expects us to act accordingly as we go through each day. Satan will continually throw roadblocks in our way, and opportunities for us to turn back to our old ways. We need to trust in and call on our God to help us to grow and be more like Him. We only need to ask and pray. He will give us strength and guidance to persevere .

Prayer:

My God and Savior, I want to be holy as You are holy. You have set my feet upon the path, and I need Your guidance every minute to keep me on track. Please change my thoughts, my words and my actions to conform to Your vision of what kind of person You want me to be. Fill me with the Holy Spirit and help me to keep my eyes fixed on You and Your Glory, and not on the past. Thank You, Lord, Amen.

2011-07-23T22:02:00.000-07:00

Crystal W. - July 22, 2011

Scripture:

1 Peter 2: 9-10 But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God's special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.

Observation:

These scriptures speak volumes to who I am in Christ. They describe a portion of my identity.

Application:

I am reminded that I am a royal priesthood. I do not have to "fall" to the temptations of the dark side. I do not have to agree with the lies of the enemy because I do not wear his colors on the field! I am God's special possession and do declare the praises of Him who called me way out of the darkness. At that point I was in His wonderful light! This scripture is just a reminder of exactly who I am and who I get to live up to be and who I should be walking like. I should walk with my head held up in victory over the very one who wants to destroy, and schemes to do so. I should smile proud of the joy that flows deep within my soul. I should look deeply into the eyes of those that do not know Him and allow them to see my great love for my King. I should pray as though it is. I should bow and humble myself for the mercy He pours out to me. I should continually keep my thoughts pure and my tongue tamed as though He is walking in front of me creating the footsteps in the sand. I am a royal priesthood, I am a holy nation, I am God's special possession and I am a chosen people!

Prayer:

What an honor, Lord. What a truly, magnificent honor. I am blessed beyond measure, and yet I still get blessed even more by reading what I am to You, Lord. I am so thankful that You, the Creator of the Universe, thinks of me as His chosen. To be chosen...what a humbling honor. I love You, Lord. I declare Your praises. Thank You again, Lord, for pouring out Your mercy onto me. I love You, Lord. Amen.

2011-07-23T10:50:00.000-07:00

Clint W. - July 21, 2011

Scripture:

2 Kings 19:17-19 “It is true, O LORD, that the Assyrian kings have laid waste these nations and their lands. They have thrown their gods into the fire and destroyed them, for they were not gods but only wood and stone, fashioned by men’s hands. Now, O LORD our God, deliver us from his hand, so that all kingdoms on earth may know that you alone, O LORD, are God.”

Observation:

Hezekiah is putting the entire battle in God's hands. He is at a point of complete dependence on the Lord for the salvation of Israel. He is also exalting God above all other "gods" of the earth that were idols and man-made images.

Application:

God is the one true God. We, as humans, put our trust in so many things that can never take care of us. We put our trust in jobs, friends, houses, 401k plans, and any number of other things that won't really ever satisfy us. If we put all those things into God's hands, He can take care of all of them - and the things that may come against us. God can fight off our enemies if we'll put all of our trust in Him.

Prayer:

Thank You, Father, for promising to take care of me. You have proven over and over to be my advocate. Please give me the faith to continue to trust You with more and more. Show me the things that I hold onto, and then help me to turn those areas of my life over to You. And as I do that, I pray that You will fight my battles for me. Take out my enemies as I rely on You more to do just that. Amen.

2011-07-21T17:20:00.000-07:00

Justin T. - July 20, 2011

Scripture:

2 Chronicles 30:9 ...for the LORD your God is gracious and compassionate. He will not turn his face from you if you return to him.

Observation:

This scripture is found in the Old Testament. Many believe the God of the Old Testament is harsh and full of wrath, but that the God of the New Testament is loving, gracious, and compassionate. This is not so! God is the same yesterday today and forever, and God has always been willing to receive those of His children who humbly repent and return back to Him.

Application:

The best thing to do when I fall away is to return to God with a humble heart and repent, because He is gracious and compassionate. He will not turn His face from me. Do not believe the lies of the enemy that would say anything to the contrary!

Prayer:

Lord, I thank You for Your grace and compassion. Help me to always run back to You after I fall. In Jesus' name, Amen.

2011-07-20T16:02:00.000-07:00

Marie A. - July 19, 2011

Scripture:

James 3:1-12 1 Not many of you should become teachers, my fellow believers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly. 2 We all stumble in many ways. Anyone who is never at fault in what they say is perfect, able to keep their whole body in check. 3 When we put bits into the mouths of horses to make them obey us, we can turn the whole animal. 4 Or take ships as an example. Although they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are steered by a very small rudder wherever the pilot wants to go. 5 Likewise, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. 6 The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole body, sets the whole course of one’s life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell. 7 All kinds of animals, birds, reptiles and sea creatures are being tamed and have been tamed by mankind, 8 but no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison. 9 With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in God’s likeness. 10 Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers and sisters, this should not be. 11 Can both fresh water and salt water flow from the same spring? 12 My brothers and sisters, can a fig tree bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Neither can a salt spring produce fresh water.

Observation:

Our tongues can be used for good or evil. And if we are doing God's work, we need to be careful in not only our actions, but also what comes out of our mouths.We can build people up or tear them down with our words. And if teaching is one of your gifts to better the kindom, you will be more accountable.

Application:

If I continue to work on my faith and continue to spend time with God, then I know that what will come out of my mouth and my actions will be more God-serving. It's like listening to music. If you are a Christian and continue to listen to non-Christian rap, you are still not putting good in. But if you listen to Christian music, you are putting good in. So when you put good in, you get good out.

Prayer:

Lord, I pray that as a Sunday school teacher, I continue to grow and learn and listen to others for help and guidance, that when I'm speaking or teaching, I'm not misleading anyone. And that all my work gives You all the glory, for I am nothing without You. Thank You, Lord, for Your love, and for healing me and helping me when all I can do is look up. Amen.

2011-07-19T09:12:00.000-07:00

Mike A. - July 18, 2011

Scripture:

James 2:20-26 20 You foolish person, do you want evidence that faith without deeds is useless? 21 Was not our father Abraham considered righteous for what he did when he offered his son Isaac on the altar? 22 You see that his faith and his actions were working together, and his faith was made complete by what he did. 23 And the scripture was fulfilled that says, “Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness,” and he was called God’s friend. 24 You see that a person is considered righteous by what they do and not by faith alone. 25 In the same way, was not even Rahab the prostitute considered righteous for what she did when she gave lodging to the spies and sent them off in a different direction? 26 As the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without deeds is dead.

Observation:

James is trying to get a point across that faith alone without deeds and good deeds without faith are totally useless. Using Abraham as an example, he had faith that God would provide. Abraham knew without a doubt that sacrifing his son to God would glorify God. Abraham had so much faith, he knew that nothing but good could come with his deed of letting go.

Application:

I'm working on this daily. Do I have the faith that God wants me to have? The faith like Abraham, to let go. The kind of faith that shows my pre-believer friends and family that God can provide? Now the deed of praying for those pre-belivers: this may look good to those I'm praying for, but only God knows my heart. Was there faith in that prayer that God will provide, heal or fix the relationship, or am I thinking, boy your problem is so big you don't believe anyway about God, so He may not answer my prayer for you. Through prayer I can change that mind set.

Prayer:

Father I pray for a right heart, a faithful heart, a heart that believes hat you are the almighty Healer of all that is wrong. May my actions be backed by my faith of my Savior Jesus Christ. Thank You, Lord. Amen.

2011-07-16T16:27:00.000-07:00

Kim T. - July 15, 2011

Scripture:

Hebrews 12:12-13 Therefore lift your drooping hands and strengthen your weak knees, and make straight paths for your feet, so that what is lame may not be put out of joint but rather be healed.

Observation:

Hebrews 12 is such an encouraging chapter. It feels like the author is trying to shout out to us that we have no reason to be discouraged and to not share in God’s glory in the end (12:1-2). I can look to the many who have gone before me and have proved that God’s discipline IS perfect and will produce the peaceful fruit of righteousness (12:11) in me. I would rather be a daughter loved by my Father, sharing in His holiness, than an illegitimate child without an inheritance.

Application:

I can grow weary in fighting the same issues in my life over and over again, things that cause me to feel lame (disabled) and not the woman I know God has made me to be. But I WILL strengthen myself in the Lord and put my trust in Him. I will not allow this lameness to put me out of joint, but WILL be healed. And I WILL allow God’s discipline to produce in me a peaceful fruit of righteousness.

Prayer:

Father, I am so thankful that I am Your daughter and get to share in Your holiness. Give me lots of grace as I go through the tests and trails of this life, and produce in me nothing less than Your beauty. Help me to SEE clearly in this life and not become discouraged. Amen.

2011-07-15T22:28:00.000-07:00

Kevin T. – July 14, 2011

Scripture:

Hebrews 11:5 By faith Enoch was taken up so that he would not see death; AND HE WAS NOT FOUND BECAUSE GOD TOOK HIM UP; for he obtained the witness that before his being taken up he was pleasing to God.

Observation:

Enoch was one of the few humans to have never died. Apparently his relationship with the Lord was of such a unique quality that the Lord one day decided to take him "up." I guess "up" means with Him. This verse says it was because he was pleasing to God. This reminds me of David who, by the Lord's own words, was a man after His own heart.

Application:

I do believe that God loves and delights in every one of his children, but not as many actively meet His desire for fellowship. This verse, however, shows that we can actively and measurably give God pleasure in a deeper way. A husband may love his wife and a son his father, but to give them pleasure and meet their actual need and desire for fellowship is a whole other thing. This verse sheds light on the principal of ministering to the Lord. He desires my un-coerced intimacy with him. He desires it so much He took a man to heaven just because he got really good at it.

Prayer:

Lord, teach me what it means to meet Your desire for intimacy and to lay hold of that for which You laid hold of me. Amen

2011-07-11T23:24:00.000-07:00

Barbara G. - July 10, 2011

Scripture:

Hebrews 7:16-18 one who has become a priest not on the basis of a regulation as to his ancestry but on the basis of the power of an indestructible life. For it is declared: "You are a priest forever, in the order of Melchizedek." The former regulation is set aside because it was weak and useless (for the law made nothing perfect), and a better hope is introduced, by which we draw near to God.

Observation:

Christ was a priest, not based on the line of His ancestry which the law prescribed--physical connection to the line of the priesthood. The qualification is not genealogical, but spiritual--an indestructible life, therefore making it superior to the law.

Application:

Christ became a priest not on the basis of coming through the "priest line," but on the basis of a perfect life. I am not saved on the basis of where I come from, but on the life Christ lived and His death on the cross. I am not saved on the basis of a law or living by the law, but on the sinless life Christ lived and His death on the cross. My hope doesn't rest in where I came from or what I can do. My only hope is in Christ!

Prayer:

Father, thank You that there is a better hope than this world has to offer. Thank You that my hope is found in You!

2011-07-11T00:11:00.000-07:00

Brook B. - July 9, 2011

Scripture:

Hebrews 6:18 God did this so that, by two unchangeable things in which it is impossible for God to lie, we who have fled to take hold of the hope offered to us may be greatly encouraged.

Observation:

A few verses back it talks about Abraham taking an oath on himself because at the time there was no one greater, but it goes on to say that each person swears by someone greater than themselves because of what they have been through with Jesus. In other words, they are a testament of what God can do in people's lives. This scripture goes on to say that "by two unchangeable things" (God's nature and His promise) it is impossible for Him to lie or change His mind, so we can hold tight to His promises.

Application:

Thinking about the full meaning of this gives me goose bumps, makes me cry, and humbles me all at the same time. Just by God's very nature we can trust that whatever He has promised will come true. Our hope is secure and immovable in Him. It is so very easy for me to doubt the future, or His plan for it. Yet here He reminds me again, "I have promised you, therefore it IS and it will be."

Prayer:

Thank You, dear friend, for reminding once again of your Father's love and patience in my life. Thank You God for the promises that You have shared with me and for not changing Your mind about those, even though I don't deserve any of it. I am Your servant and want to be at the ready whenever You want to send me out. I love You and thank You for loving me much more than I can ever know. Amen.

2011-07-09T23:15:00.000-07:00

Kelli F. - July 8, 2011

Scripture:

Hebrews 5:11-14 We have a lot to say about that. But it is hard to explain it to you. You learn too slowly. By this time you should be teachers. But in fact, you need someone to teach you all over again. You need even the simple truths of God's word. You need milk, not solid food. Anyone who lives on milk is still a baby. That person does not want to learn about living a godly life. Solid food is for those who are grown up. They have trained themselves with a lot of practice. They can tell the difference between good and evil.

Observation:

The author is warning believers that God expects us to grow and mature as Christians. New believers need milk; they need to know the foundational truths of the Christian faith. They are not able to yet digest the meat, that part of the Word that requires obedience and change as we learn how to live a godly life. There exists an expectation from God that just like our own children, we progress from drinking milk to eating solid food.

Application:

Babies are cute. They accept the simple truth that they are loved with no conditions, no expectations and no accountability. But when they become toddlers, our job as parents is to teach them the difference between right and wrong. As they continue to grow, they learn responsibility (hopefully) and respect. They learn to discern the things of this world that will harm them or help them. Eventually, they become parents themselves and teachers, to their own kids.

God parents us in the same way. He wants us to grow so that we can experience everything that life in Him brings. The way He teaches us is through His word. Think of all of the experiences you would have missed if you had stayed a baby. Growing up can be painful, wonderful, scary, exciting, heartbreaking and amazing, but this crazy roller coaster ride teaches us how to get through our time here on earth. It's a journey.

Becoming like Christ is a journey, too. It takes time, practice and a willingness to learn. When we mature in Christ, we are learning not only how to better live our lives here, but also preparing our hearts and minds for the eternity we will spend with Jesus.

Prayer:

Father God, help me to become like You. Teach me how to honor You in everything that I do. Ignite such a hunger in my soul that each day, I seek You with ALL of my heart. I thank You for the Holy Bible, Lord, for Your word and Your promises. I know there are things I'm not always going to understand or agree with, Lord, but I accept every person, interaction, opportunity, and experience that You put in my path. Help me to use it all for Your purpose and glory. In Jesus' name ~ Amen and amen!

2011-07-09T16:59:00.000-07:00

Guy D. - July 7, 2011

Scripture:

Hebrews 4:9-10 There remains, then, a Sabbath-rest for the people of God; 10 for anyone who enters God’s rest also rests from their works, just as God did from his.

Observation:

God's rest is not a physical one (although it may include physical rest) but a spiritual one.

Application:

Spiritual rest comes when I stop fighting God and relinquish control to the Holy Spirit to change me. In this way, I can daily enter the Sabbath by recognizing God as Lord of my life. In practice I do not accomplish this. I wish that I did. The truth is that I struggle with the Lord and resist change on a daily basis. This makes my responsibility to the Sabbath even greater. Can I not give one day to the Lord to work in my life?

Prayer:

Father, help me to submit to Your guiding, and enter Your rest that refreshes my soul.

2011-07-06T22:24:00.000-07:00

Misty T. - July 6, 2011

Scripture:

Hebrews 3:12-15 See to it, brothers and sisters, that none of you has a sinful, unbelieving heart that turns away from the living God. But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called “Today,” so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness. We have come to share in Christ, if indeed we hold our original conviction firmly to the very end. As has just been said: “Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts as you did in the rebellion.”

Observation:

Don't get caught up in doubt and unbelief...it"ll only drive you farther away from Christ. Hold each other accountable...remember what it was like when you first accepted Christ...go back to your first love. Don't learn things the hard way...remember your first love.

Application:

When I first read this scripture, I remembered a time when I was a teenager when I was in rebellion. I knew that I wasn't living right, but as I kept reading it and applying it to my life, the Lord brought up several things to me that could be considered rebellion in my life right now, like doubting Him, letting the enemy steal my joy over an area that I have received victory over, trying to do things in my own strength, and the list could go on. I really feel that these are also forms of rebellion...knowing the right thing to do and not doing it...um HELLO! I think sometimes I look at rebellion as this HUGE thing that is so obviously wrong, but that's not always the case. I have to continually search my heart for those little "un-obvious" seeds taking root.
The other part about this scripture that I love so much is where it says "But encourage one another daily." I am so thankful that I have SEVERAL people that hold me accountable...people that challenge me to live the life that God intended me to live. I think it's so important that we all have people like that in our life because without it, there is a risk of becoming complacent and having a hard heart. I know for me, God uses those people to speak to me...someone from the outside looking in.

Prayer:

Lord, thank You for reminders in Your Word. Please help me to continually be alert and on guard, with a softened heart, ready to hear Your voice. Please help me to recognize when I'm in "rebellion." I want everything that You have for me..I don't want to miss it because I'm being stubborn!

2011-07-06T07:44:00.000-07:00

Justin T. - July 5, 2011

Scripture:

Hebrews 2:14-15 "Since the children have flesh and blood, he too shared in their humanity so that by his death he might break the power of him who holds the power of death—that is, the devil and free those who all their lives were held in slavery by their fear of death."

Observation:

Jesus shared in our humanity, suffered, and died. By doing this, He broke the power of the devil over my life. The way I like to look at this scripture is by imagining the devil holding me hostage with a gun and Jesus taking his gun and removing the bullets. The devil has been holding humanity hostage since Adam and Eve, and now we are all free to go because the devil doesn't have any bullets in his gun anymore.

Application:

Just like with many things in my relationship with Christ, my responsibility is to receive what has already been freely given. Jesus died for me, and it is my responsibility to receive the victory available for me through His precious blood and walk away from the devil's influence over my life, knowing that he (the devil) has absolutely NO POWER!

Prayer:

Thank You, Lord, for the victory available to me through Your blood. Help me to walk away from any influence that the devil has in my life. In Jesus' name, Amen.

2011-07-05T21:40:00.000-07:00

Sheila W. - July 4, 2011

Scripture:

Hebrews 1:14 Are not all angels ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation?

Observation:

There really are angels around us, and they are here to serve those of who have become believers in Jesus.

Application:

I think a lot of people go too far in their faith in angels, as if they are agents all on their own with their own super-powers. I think angels are important and they are extremely powerful, but only with and through God. To think God has given angels to serve us!! How incredible is that?

Prayer:

God, I don't even know where to begin to ask You for knowledge about how to access the aid of Your angels! Teach me how they can help me, and help me to use all of Your resources the best way I can for Your kingdom! Amen.

2011-07-02T23:17:00.000-07:00

Annica J. - July 1, 2011

Scripture:

Isaiah 1:18-20 "No matter how deep the stain of your sins, I can remove it. I can make you as clean as freshly fallen snow. Even if you are stained as red as crimson, I can make you as white as wool. If you will only obey me and let me help you, then you will have plenty to eat. But if you keep turning away and refusing to listen, you will be destroyed by your enemies, I the Lord have spoken."

Observation:

So many times when we make a mistake, we hide from God or pull back from Christian fellowship. God is not turning away from us when we sin, He's asking us to come to Him so that we can be forgiven and purified again. That's the whole reason that Christ died on the cross, was so that we could be forgiven for our sins.

Application:

At times I try to complicate my relationship with God when He's just asking for obedience. He's here to be my provider and He has a perfect way. When I give up my own way of doing things and just obey Him then I'm protected from my enemies. The more I put my faith in Him and not in myself, the more the Lord does awesome things in my life.

Prayer:

Thank You, God, for Your forgivess, thank You that I don't have to be ashamed and covered in my sin. Thank You for reminding me to come to You and be forgiven no matter what the sin. Help me to be obedient, not lacking in faith. Thank You for Your perfect plan for my life.

2011-07-01T10:30:00.000-07:00

Sheila W. - June 30, 2011

Scripture:

Amos 7:8 And the LORD asked me, "What do you see, Amos?" "A plumb line," I replied. Then the Lord said, "Look, I am setting a plumb line among my people Israel; I will spare them no longer.

Observation:

God is telling the prophet Amos that He is "taking stock" of the people of Israel. A plumb line is used largely by masons and bricklayers to keep a wall straight and true. I've seen this done--the mason standing with a string dangline from his hand. At the bottom of the string is a plummet that will hold the string straight. After a wall is built, a builder can see if there might be bulges or bows in the wall, which would result in the builder having to tear the wall down to that point and rebuild. In Amos 7, God is saying that He's standing at the wall (the wall that He had built that initially was straight and true) and is now determining where the bulge or bow is. He will tear it down to that point and rebuild. However, it apparently is completely out of whack, because He says it will all be destroyed.

Application:

On a personal level, I want to be found straight and true, in complete alignment with You, God, and Your Word. I need to allow the Holy Spirit to convict me of my weaknesses (my bulges and bows) and help me to rebuild them in Christ. On a broader plain, as the 4th of July rolls around, I have reflected a lot on the foundation of our country and how far off course we've gotten. Surely God has gotten His plumb line out and found us wanting.

Prayer:

Father, have mercy on me if You have found me wanting. Forgive me for going my own way. And, God, please have mercy on our country. We've fallen so far from Your standard. Our wall is bowed and bent; help us, Father, to rebuild. Show us our failings and forgive us of our sins, of burying our head in the sand instead of speaking out against laws that go against You. Forgive us. Heal us. In Jesus' name, Amen.

2011-06-30T21:09:00.000-07:00

Guest Blogger JoAnne B. - June 29, 2011

Scripture:

Amos 5:14-15 Seek good, not evil, that you may live. Then the Lord Almighty will be with you, just as you say he is. Hate evil, love good; maintain justice in the courts. Perhaps the Lord God Almighty will have mercy on the remnant of Joseph.

Observation:

This whole passage is a warning and perhaps a prophecy to the people that the Lord is not pleased with their actions and is about to pour out His judgment on them for turning away from Him.

Application:

I think this is a good reminder of the values I should strive for in my life. If I am listening to the voice of the Holy Spirit, naturally I will be loving what is good and hating what is evil. This can apply to all areas of my life- my attitude, my goals, my lifestyle in general. My human nature naturally leans towards whatever is evil and sinful, so it is important for me to spend the time with God in my daily life to learn how to hear and be sensitive to the voice of the Holy Spirit. As a Christian, the Holy Spirit has been what has helped me and will continue to help me to overcome my sinful nature and embrace everything that is good in life.

Prayer:

Lord, I pray that You will help me to be sensitive to the voice of the Holy Spirit in my life today. Especially around my family, help me to show Your love today and to reflect Your heart in my attitudes and my actions. I want to value everything that is good and hate everything that is evil. I know I can find all strength and comfort in You for anything I am going through in life. Thank You, Lord, that You don't give up on me even when I have had a bad day and turned away from Your ways. Guide me in following You.

2011-06-29T12:49:00.000-07:00

Sherrill W. – June 28, 2011

Scripture:

2 Timothy 4:2 I give you this charge. Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage-with great patience and careful instruction.

Observation:

Paul is imprisoned, knowing he is near the end of his life, and in this letter to Timothy, he gives his last instructions to him. Preach the Word! Correct! Rebuke! Encourage! As Paul nears the end of his life, his imploring instructions to Timothy (and all of us) take on an importance and urgency.

Application:

Am I ready, "in season and out" to preach, talk and conduct myself as representing Christ - not just when it is convenient, but especially when it is inconvenient? And, when I do, are they words and actions of encouragement, and done with deliberation and careful thought?

Prayer:

Lord, May I be a "ready" Christian, ready to spread your Word to those I meet, see, those who see my actions. Help me to burn bright for You. For Your glory, I am Yours. Amen

2011-06-28T17:35:00.000-07:00

Ray W. – June 27, 2011

Scripture:

2 Timothy 4:16-19 16 At my first defense, no one came to my support, but everyone deserted me. May it not be held against them. 17 But the Lord stood at my side and gave me strength. 18 The Lord will rescue me from every evil attack and will bring me safely to his heavenly kingdom. To him be glory for ever and ever. Amen.

Observation:

When Paul was on trial, no one came to his defense and he was essentially alone and deserted. But the Lord was with him. He knew the Lord would take care of him and he would be delivered to heaven.

Application:

We find ourselves sometimes feeling deserted, alone, or maybe depressed. All we have to do is remember and believe that the Lord is with us every step of the way and He will be at our side, giving us strength. He will rescue us and deliver us to His kingdom. The key words here are remember and believe.

Prayer:

Lord, Let me not forget that You are with me at all times and are my guardian. It is my strongest desire to be with You in heaven. I thank You for my many blessings. I give You all the glory and grace forever and ever…. Amen.

2011-06-27T19:29:00.000-07:00

Madeline D. - June 26, 2011

Scripture:

2 Timothy 2:12-13 If we endure, we will also reign with Him. If we disown Him, He will also disown us; 13 if we are faithless, He will remain faithful, for He cannot disown Himself.

Observation:

Paul is calling his brothers and sisters in Christ to not grow disheartened when faced with trials. He's urging everyone to keep their faith up, move towards what God has called them to do, and not to get caught up in the distracting things of the world.

Application:

These passages are kind of like the old saying "keep your eye on the prize," but with this, Jesus Christ is our prize. We were not promised an easy life when we accepted Christ as our Savior. No one said that we would be popular or have great wealth. But because Christ loves us, He gives His children great things. At times it may be dark, there doesn't seem to be an end to the trials and we want to throw in the towel. We can rejoice because we know that God has us in His capable hands and is shaping us to be with Him. That's what trials and hardships are about. I have had a hard time keeping my eyes on the greater picture. I am guilty of being so focused on what I want in this life that I forget the real reason that I am here. God brings good and perfect things into the lives of those who choose to serve Him. I need to remind myself daily that without God this life isn't worth living and these trials that I go through will only make me stronger.

Prayer:

Father God, thank You for Your goodness. Thank You that You have created me for a purpose. Help me to remain focused on Your beautiful picture and not my finger painting. I believe and want what You have in store for me. Praise Your mighty name. Amen.

2011-06-27T10:29:00.000-07:00

Guy D. - June 25, 2011

Scripture:

Joel 1:2,3,8 Hear this, you elders; listen, all who live in the land. Has anything like this ever happened in your days or in the days of your ancestors? 3 Tell it to your children, and let your children tell it to their children, and their children to the next generation. 8 Mourn like a virgin in sackcloth grieving for the betrothed of her youth.

Observation:

Throughout this chapter people are told to weep, mourn, wail, and despair. At the very beginning Joel tells them to remember this time and pass it on to future generations. They are told to remember their sorrow.

Application:

I do not enjoy sorrow. In fact, it is rather unpleasant. But sorrow's work is to develop repentance in me. A true repentance. Not flippantly "Oops. I sinned, God forgive me." Sorrow provides a true revelation of how sin grieves the Father's heart and causes me to turn from sin to the Son. Then He removes the regret. I need Godly sorrow's work in my heart.

Prayer:

Jesus, I give You thanks for the cross. Give me the foresight to allow sorrow to work and work quickly on my heart.

2011-06-25T15:44:00.000-07:00

Jean B. - June 24, 2011

Scripture:

Joel 2:21 Be not afraid, O land' be glad and rejoice.. Surely he has done great things.
Verse 25. I will repay you for the years the locusts have eaten.
Verse 32. Everyone who calls upon the name of the Lord will be saved.

Observation:

Verse 21 Joel is telling the people of the land to be happy because God has done great things.
Verse 25: He is telling them that the Lord is going to make up for what has done to them in the past.
Verse32: Well said.

Application:

This chapter in Joel has helped me so much in the past, and as I read it again, it has strengthend my faith and has given me hope. God has not changed and does what He says He'll do. Even when I go through really tough times, I know that my Lord knows and cares about every detail, but the most important thing to Him is my obedience to Him. Sometime that is hard to do when I'm feeling hopeless. His promise is "I will repay you for the years the locusts have eaten." "God is not man, that he should lie"( Numbers 23:19). So, I will rejoice and be glad that my Lord has saved me. I have called Him my Lord.

Prayer:

Thank You, Lord, for the hope you give in Your Word. Live in me and through me that I will show others the love and character of Christ. Thank You, Father, for all You have done for me. I love You. Amen.

2011-06-24T10:59:00.000-07:00

Crystal W. - June 22, 2011

Scripture:

1 Timothy 5:10 and is well known for her good deeds, such as bringing up children, showing hospitality, washing the feet of the saints, helping those in trouble and devoting herself to all kinds of good deeds.

Observation:

This is describing the widowed woman that would make "the list." She also had to be over 60 and had to have been faithful to her husband. There are a few other items describing who would take care of the widow and so on, but this portion specifically stood out to me.

Application:

What a servant. She is to be well-known for her good deeds. That alone is so great! Then you list the deeds and realize how humbling and giving this woman is: Bringing up children and showing hospitality: there are times during bringing up my children that I don't want to be hospitable. Washing the feet of the saints: dirty job and somebody had to do it. Helping those in trouble: Takes a heart of love and compassion. Devoting herself to all kinds of good deeds: The list didn't stop here.
I am very grateful for the example here. Just to be reminded of the ways to create, live out and share my servant heart--without grumbling!

Prayer:

Jesus, what a beautiful way to show You. I get to do these things which will just lead me into more lives to share about You. Open the doors today for me to exercise these examples. I love You, Lord, and just want to be Your servant in any way possible. Amen.

2011-06-23T00:23:00.000-07:00

Clint W. - June 21, 2011

Scripture:

2 Chronicles 20: 15-17 He said: “Listen, King Jehoshaphat and all who live in Judah and Jerusalem! This is what the LORD says to you: ‘Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God’s. Tomorrow march down against them. They will be climbing up by the Pass of Ziz, and you will find them at the end of the gorge in the Desert of Jeruel. You will not have to fight this battle. Take up your positions; stand firm and see the deliverance the LORD will give you, Judah and Jerusalem. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Go out to face them tomorrow, and the LORD will be with you.’”

Observation:

The people of Judah don't have to fight, but they do have to be obedient to God. He has told them to get ready and go down to meet the army that is coming to attack them. He even goes so far as to tell them to take their positions. The men of Judah are instructed to do everything they would normally do in the event of a battle, but they will not have to fight.

Application:

I love this!! I too often think that I either need to fight the battle myself, or that I need to get completely out of it and let God do everything. In this instance, Judah doesn't have to fight the battle, but they do need to follow every command that God gives them. I think that God probably tells me to take certain steps in my battles that I blow off because I excuse it as my flesh just wanting to get in the way. I need to be obedient to God's commands in the middle of my battles so that He will be faithful to deliver me. Something else that happened was that the army of Judah got to see what God had done because they obeyed. God may have killed their enemies either way, but because they marched out, they saw the dead men and reaped the benefits of God's victory.

Prayer:

Jesus, thank You so much for fighting my battles for me. Your strength and might are unmatched, and Your justice is perfect. I pray that You would give me the insight to hear Your voice, and the strength to follow Your directions. Please set me back so that You can go forward and fight my battles for me. I pray that as I go through battles in my life that I would remember what You did for Jehoshaphat and Judah here, and be reminded that obedience will ultimately bring me victory. Amen.

2011-06-20T12:10:00.000-07:00

Marie A. - June 19, 2011

Scripture:

1 Timothy 1:12-17 12 I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength, that he considered me trustworthy, appointing me to his service. 13 Even though I was once a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent man, I was shown mercy because I acted in ignorance and unbelief. 14 The grace of our Lord was poured out on me abundantly, along with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus.15 Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst. 16 But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his immense patience as an example for those who would believe in him and receive eternal life. 17 Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory for ever and ever. Amen.

Observation:

In these passages God is showing us He can use anyone for His good work.Even though there was a time in Paul's life were he was a murderer, blasphemer, and a very violent man, God changed him, showed him mercy and love. Paul could have allowed his past to guilt him into not giving God everything he had, but he didn't, and God used him in a mighty way. So no matter how shameful the past, God is waiting to forgive and use someone in a mighty way.

Application:

This scripture makes me think of the many times I've wanted to just give up because things got too hard. Looking back, I realize that without God it would have been a whole lot harder and maybe if I'd relied on God more, it would not have be so bad. I always thought my past defined me, but it doesn't. I work on that every day now. And I have to say I am not who I once was, and I am working on who God has called me to be.

Prayer:

Thank You, Lord, for being patient and merciful even when I am so unworthy. As Paul I pray to that I can be a strong warrior fighting to bring the lost into the kingdom all for Your glory. Thank You for showing me I am nothing without You and everything because of You. Amen

2011-06-20T10:13:00.000-07:00

Mike A. - June 18, 2011

Scripture:

Colossians 4;2-6 2 Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful. 3 And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains. 4 Pray that I may proclaim it clearly, as I should. 5 Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. 6 Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.

Observation:

Paul says we should be diligent in our prayer and be thankful. We should also be prayer warriors for our brothers so they may have the right words to proclaim who Christ Jesus is, and for ourselves to be wise in what we say to un-believers, watchful in how they perceive what we say and are eager to hear more. What I thought interesting was Paul was not praying for anything for themselves but for compassionate hearts and words for those listening to them.

Application:

If Paul can pray for clarity of words towards others while in chains and probably beaten and be concerned how they truly understand the message about Jesus, I think my need can be put aside and start praying for the lost that God puts in my path to help. My needs will be met when I go home to the Father.

Prayer:

Father, I pray that I get real to what really matters. My needs don't mean anything compared to finding just one lost soul that needs to hear about Your Son our Savior. I pray for compassion in my words to reach the hearts of those that are hungry and dissatisfied where they are now. In Jesus' mighty name, Amen.

2011-06-19T22:56:00.000-07:00

Lisa S. – June 17, 2011

Scripture:

2 Chronicles 17: 10 The fear of the Lord fell on all the kingdoms of the lands surrounding Judah, so that they did not make war with Jehoshaphat.

Observation:

The Lord was with king Jehoshaphat because of how he lead his life. He gave him thousands upon thousands of God-fearing men to protect his kingdoms.

Application:

This chapter talks about all the people who were willing to "go to" for God, who were volunteer themselves for the service of the Lord. One day we will see this again. Where we can seem so few as Christians, there will be multitudes come forward. We as Christians now just keep telling of His love and we will see that day!

Prayer:

Thank You, Father, for opening the eyes to my heart to see what life is with You in it. I know I could not get through life without You. Use me to be the example You would have me be so others will see how much simpler things are with Your love. In Jesus' name, Amen.

2011-06-18T22:56:00.000-07:00

Sheila W. - June 17, 2011

Scripture:

Colossians 4:2-4 2 Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful. 3 And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains. 4 Pray that I may proclaim it clearly, as I should.

Observation:

Paul is closing out his letter the church in Colosse. He is giving them important instructions in a really clear, concise format: do this, do that,...Three time in three verses he mentions "prayer."

Application:

God, You've been dealing with me more than ever before in my life about prayer. Everywhere I turn, I read or hear something about prayer. Thank You for showing me the importance of this discipline. Thank You for giving me the opportunity to pray. You are the great Teacher, and You are teaching me new things about prayer everyday. Thank You.

Prayer:

Father, help me to understand the things that You're trying to show me about prayer. Thank You for caring enough to even try to teach me. I want to grow in You, and I welcome any and all instruction You have for me. Help me to focus on You and to take the time I need to take to be alone with You. I love You. In Jesus' name, Amen.

2011-06-18T07:18:00.000-07:00

Chris S. – June 16, 2011

Scripture:

Colossians 2 :6-8 6 So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, 7 rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness. 8 See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the elemental spiritual forces of this world rather than on Christ.

Observation:

Paul has written a letter to the Colossians encouraging them and reminding them that Jesus is supreme over everything. Most of today's scripture reading is a great reminder to stay "true" to His ways and not the ways of those who have deception teachings, willingly or unwillingly.

Application:

Paul wrote a great letter thousands of years ago and the letter has such great application for me today. I would argue that the letters principals are needed more than ever in our world today. What a great reminder of: staying true and rooted in Him; reminder of His falling for my sins; that He is king of all kings. I have fallen many times in my life and Christ has been there every single time with arms wide open with amazing love for me. What a great God I serve.

Prayer:

Father, there is no other like you. You deserve all the glory and splendor. I thank you for the above passage and reminder that we must stay true to your ways and avoid the deceptive evils of this world. I know there are times that fall, I ask that you guide me and steer me to your ways. Help me stay rooted and focused on You. Give me strength and deliverance from evil. Lord, I love You and am so thankful for You. - Amen

2011-06-17T21:25:00.000-07:00

Kim T. - June 15, 2011

Scripture:

Col 1 :9-11 And so, from the day we heard, we have not ceased to pray for you, asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God. May you be strengthened with all power, according to his glorious might, for all endurance and patience with joy.

Observation:

This is a prayer to pray that covers it all. I can pray it for anyone and in any circumstance. It is wonderful to have Holy Spirit-inspired-and-lead-scripture to pray especially when I don't know what to pray.

Application:

I can pray this prayer over my husband to see him strengthened and have endurance in this world. To see him prosper in the Lord. I can pray this over my children to see them grow to become men and women of God. I am going to write this down on a card so I don't forget it and can have easy access to it.

Prayer:

Col. 1: 9-11