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Know ye that the LORD he is God: it is he that hath made us, and
not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his
pasture.
Psalm 100:3, King James Version
June 5, 2007
VERSE:
Wherefore also we pray always for you, that our God would count
you worthy of this calling, and fulfil all the good pleasure of his
goodness, and the work of faith with power:
-- 2 Thessalonians 1:11
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=2+Thessalonians+1:11&translation=kjv
THOUGHT:
Paul prays for God to be active in the lives of these new
Christians -- to maximize the good they intend to do as well as
fully bless every good deed they do out of their commitment of
faith. What new Christian do you need to pray this for?
PRAYER:
Strong and mighty Father, please bless several new Christians
who are on my heart today. Help them recognize your presence in
their lives. Please maximize the good in every effort they make and
every intention they have to honor you and bless your people.
Protect them from the evil one. In Jesus' name I ask this blessing.
Amen.
The unbelieving mind would not be convinced by any proof, and
the worshiping heart needs none.
-- A. W. Tozer In Touch Daily Devotional
by Dr. Charles Stanley
June 5, 2007 – By Faith Alone – Romans 1:16-17 If you're too proud to submit to God, you'll never get to heaven. You may be a kind, gentle person; you may even be naturally compassionate and charitable. But if your pride keeps you from admitting you need Jesus Christ, then you'll never accept His gift of salvation. Many people are in hell because their heart was too hard and they believed their mind was too smart for God. There's only one way to reach heaven. Holy God cannot tolerate sin in His presence. Romans 6:23 says the penalty for sin is death. But, as Romans 3:23 tells us, everyone is a sinner. God mercifully sent His Son Jesus Christ as a sacrifice to provide a bridge between mankind and Himself. This gift is the only thing a person needs to enter into a relationship with God. The believer doesn't work or reason his way into heaven. The bridge spanning the gap between each individual and God is crossed only through an act of faith. That's achieved by acknowledging the need for a Savior and accepting Christ's death on the cross as payment for sin. Some people may want only what they deserve. But Romans 3:23-24 says no one deserves grace. Others may want only what they have worked for. But Ephesians 2:8-9 says nobody can earn salvation. And yet, our heavenly Father wants to give grace and salvation to us, even though we're undeserving. The truly wise people of this world accept God's truth. They bend their spirits ??? and their knees ??? before the Lord. My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers
temptations; Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh
patience.
James 1:2-3, King James Version
June 6, 2007
VERSE:
Save thy people, and bless thine inheritance: feed them also,
and lift them up for ever.
-- Psalm 28:9
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=Psalm+28:9+&translation=kjv
THOUGHT:
While most of us are familiar with the very personal declaration
about God as shepherd in Psalm 23, this Psalm is a plea for God to
actively shepherd all of his people today and into the far distant
future. It is also a great reminder of how important it is for us
to pray for God's presence in the lives of his children wherever,
and "whenever" they are!
PRAYER:
Eternal Father, the great "I AM," please bless me as I seek to
pass on faith to my children. Bless them and their generation, and
lead them in your truth so that they may pass on a vibrant and
passionate faith to their children. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.
The Gospels do not explain the Resurrection -- the Resurrection
explains the Gospels.
-- John S. Whale
In Touch Daily Devotional
by Dr. Charles Stanley
June 6, 2007 – The Family Influence – 1 Kings 15:8-35 The environment in which a child grows up affects his entire life. The family dynamic, particularly the parents' behavior, impacts his perception of himself, his neighbors, and the Lord. Consider King Asa, a man in the royal line. He followed in David's footsteps and pleased God. Compare his story with that of Nadab, who practiced the same evils as his father King Jeroboam and provoked God's anger. With those men in mind, we believers must consider what will become of our children if they follow in our ways. We're typically their first example of godly living. This means they should see us praying, reading God's Word, and involved in a community of believers. If we want them to enjoy a relationship with Jesus Christ, they must first see the fruits of our own spiritual walk. In daily life, our families should see us turning to God for strength and comfort. Whenever a problem or decision confronts us, the kids should hear about the lessons and guidance in Scripture. At church, children need to see Mom and Dad humbly serving the body of Christ. Parent's actions and speech should always indicate to their children that Jesus Christ is the priority. If your want your son or daughter to desire to please God, then you must first live according to His will. Through you, your child witnesses an example that leads him directly to the ultimate example of successful living???Jesus Christ. As obedient children, not fashioning yourselves according to the
former lusts in your ignorance: But as he which hath called you
is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; Because it
is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.
1 Peter 1:14-16, King James Version
June 7, 2007
VERSE:
So he fed them according to the integrity of his heart; and
guided them by the skilfulness of his hands.
-- Psalm 78:72
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=Psalm+78:72+&translation=kjv
THOUGHT:
One of the greatest honors and responsibilities a Christian
leader can have is to be designated a pastor or shepherd in God's
family. While only a few truly qualify biblically to be recognized
as shepherds over God's flock (see Acts 20, 1 Tim 3, & Titus 1), a
shepherding concern for others is important for all of us. Let's
demand that those who are selected as our Shepherds have integrity
of heart and proven skill in caring for people. And when they lead,
let's give them our support in effort, prayer, and ministry.
PRAYER:
O Great Shepherd, I fervently pray that you will raise up great
leaders in your church who will shepherd your sheep with integrity
and godly skill. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.
God's grace and mercy have brought you through. Quit acting as
if you made it on your own.
-- T. D. Jakes
In Touch Daily Devotional
by Dr. Charles Stanley
June 7, 2007 – A Parent's Positive Influence – Colossians 3:23-25 Yesterday, we focused on the family's influence regarding spiritual matters. Today, let's discuss some vital attitudes also shaped by a parent's example. Relationships, money, and employment usually aren't considered "spiritual issues" because they do not affect our salvation. But the way we approach these three areas of life can still please or displease God. When it comes to relationships, Mom and Dad usually try to be vigilant so their children won't fall in with the "wrong crowd." At home, kids should see their parents wisely seeking and choosing their own friends. Then, Mom and Dad should treat those people with grace and love. Regarding money, it's vital for kids to witness a right attitude toward finances. They need to know that everything they earn is actually a gift from God. Then, they'll use those resources well. Wise parents teach children the true value of money???it's a means of providing for oneself and blessing others. Children need to understand two things about their future career paths. First, God has a plan and will for their life. Second, everything is done for the Lord, regardless of who the human boss is. Mom and Dad should give their best in everything so their children learn to serve God first. The world frequently measures success according to relationships, money, and career status. We can teach our children true success is not about having the most money, the best job, or the best-looking spouse. It's about keeping a God-centered attitude in every situation. 
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In Touch Daily Devotional
by Dr. Charles Stanley
June 4, 2007 – Faith Versus Intellect – 1 Corinthians 1:18-25 In Paul’s time, unbelievers rejected the Gospel of Jesus Christ as foolishness. They tried to approach God purely through intellect. Today, people still offer views of God and salvation that are contrary to Scripture’s teachings. Their ideas sometimes sound so reasonable that they lead many astray. According to human logic, the man with the highest education, the largest number of degrees, and the greatest intelligence should have the wisest plan to reach God. But, as the apostle explained, the “wisdom” of mankind is foolishness. In Isaiah 29:14 and 1 Corinthians 1:19, God promises to destroy the false wisdom of the world. And for good reason???human wisdom is used to glorify man. Those who dismiss faith in favor of an intellect attempt to gain God’s approval by reasoning, rationalization, or work. For instance, every religion except Christianity has a plan or ritual by which one supposedly gains acceptance with that belief system’s god. Those plans all boil down to this idea: “If I do better, I will be better. If I am better, then I will be more acceptable to my god.” In this model, man does the work and earns the glory for being a good member of his religion. But the end result of all that work is death, eternal separation from the true God. Christianity glorifies God and His work. We’re considered faithful believers when we place our trust in Him alone and believe Jesus Christ gave His life so we could be free from sin. Only He has made a way for believers to be acceptable to Him It is quite possible to perform very ordinary actions with so
high an intention as to serve God therein better than in far
more important things done with a less pure intention.
-- Jean N. Grou
June 4, 2007
VERSE:
How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed?
and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and
how shall they hear without a preacher?
-- Romans 10:14
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=Romans+10:14&translation=kjv
THOUGHT:
Since "calling on the name of the Lord" is essential for
salvation, then what is going to happen if we don't speak about
Jesus with those who do not know him? We must share Jesus with
everyone who will listen. That "someone preaching to them" must be
us!
PRAYER:
Concerned and loving Father, I know the people in my life were
put there by you. Please make me bolder in my witness to others
about Jesus and his sacrifice. Please give me wisdom to know when
to speak to them about the Gospel. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.
Happy art thou, O Israel: who is like unto thee, O people saved
by the LORD, the shield of thy help, and who is the sword of thy
excellency! and thine enemies shall be found liars unto thee;
and thou shalt tread upon their high places.
Deuteronomy 33:29, King James Version
When you face the perils of weariness, carelessness, and
confusion, don't pray for an easier life. Pray instead to be a
stronger man or woman of God.
-- Luis Palau
June 3, 2007
VERSE:
For wisdom is a defence, and money is a defence: but the
excellency of knowledge is, that wisdom giveth life to them that
have it.
-- Ecclesiastes 7:12
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=Ecclesiastes+7:12&translation=kjv
THOUGHT:
We can try to insure our future through many things. Wisdom,
however, is always a better investment than finances because it not
only shelters us from our uncertain future, but Godly wisdom can
also keep us out of the unnecessary consequences for dumb and
ungodly behaviors. Most of all, God's wisdom teaches us that
there's no solid future without our lives centered on God.
PRAYER:
O Lord God, I want to be wise in your ways and innocent in the
ways of evil. Forgive my foolish and sometimes rebellious
behaviors. Lead me with your Spirit in the ways of truth, justice,
and righteousness. In the name of the Lord Jesus I pray. Amen.
Wherefore if thy hand or thy foot offend thee, cut them off, and
cast them from thee: it is better for thee to enter into life
halt or maimed, rather than having two hands or two feet to be
cast into everlasting fire.
Matthew 18:8, King James Version
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The young lions do lack, and suffer hunger: but they that seek
the LORD shall not want any good thing.
Psalm 34:10, King James Version
In Touch Daily Devotional
by Dr. Charles Stanley
May 31, 2007 – The Reality of God’s Love – 2 Corinthians 11:23-27 Welcome to the In Touch Devotional. Perhaps you feel some past sin keeps God from loving you. If that’s the case, think about Paul, a man who violently persecuted Christians before finally turning to the Lord. Paul says God loves you. Do you believe him? Maybe you’re someone who wonders how a loving God could allow you to be hurt or abused. Paul endured beatings and imprisonment for preaching the Gospel. And he says God loves you. Do you believe him? It’s possible you feel alone and unlovable. Paul was abandoned by friends, and even shipwrecked. He says God loves you. Do you believe him? Regardless of your experiences, the apostle Paul probably experienced something you can relate to. But he kept spreading his message of hope, which was God loves us and sent His Son to die for our sins. The situation we find ourselves in may be unfair, painful, or humiliating. But the fact it happened doesn’t mean God stopped loving us. Sometimes, we face difficulty because He’s polishing our rough edges and molding us into His image. Other challenges are instigated by Satan, but the Lord’s permissive will allows them. As Romans 8:28 says, God works everything out to our good, according to His purpose for our life. The key to accepting the truth of God’s unconditional love is to focus attention on Him rather than your circumstances. When you’re learning, talking, and sharing you life with Him, trust and faith naturally replace doubt and fear. We must always speak of the efficacy of the ministry in such a
manner that the entire praise of the work may be reserved for
God alone.
-- John Calvin
May 31, 2007
VERSE:
Remember them which have the rule over you, who have spoken unto
you the word of God: whose faith follow, considering the end of
their conversation.
-- Hebrews 13:7
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=Hebrews+13:7&translation=kjv
THOUGHT:
What makes a great Christian leader? The Holy Spirit emphasizes
three things in this passage: 1) they teach others the word of God;
2) they live as great examples for others; and 3) they have
observable faith. God puts each of us in positions of influence
with our children, our friends, our work acquaintances, and our
neighbors. What kind of spiritual leadership are we showing them?
PRAYER:
God of all grace and Father of all compassion, please help me to
be a better Christian leader to the people you have put in my
sphere of influence. Empower me to have a life worth imitating. In
Jesus' name I ask this. Amen.
My son, hear the instruction of thy father, and forsake not the
law of thy mother.
Proverbs 1:8, King James Version
June 1, 2007
VERSE:
Remembering without ceasing your work of faith, and labour of
love, and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ, in the sight
of God and our Father;
-- 1 Thessalonians 1:3
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=1+Thessalonians+1:3&translation=kjv
THOUGHT:
In a world that falls for facades and seems to give more credit
for intentions than actions, don't you find it refreshing that Paul
expects that faith, hope, and love will naturally produce certain
actions?
PRAYER:
Mighty God of deliverance, I want to honor you with a life of
observable faith, hope, and love. Please revive and refresh me with
your Holy Spirit so that my life will be full of the actions that
your grace and character inspire. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen. Once in seven years I burn all my sermons; for it is a shame, if
I cannot write better sermons now than I did seven years ago.
-- John Wesley
In Touch Daily Devotional
by Dr. Charles Stanley
June 1, 2007 – The Danger of a Hardening Heart – Hebrews 3:7-11 The Hebrews who left Egypt had concrete proof of God’s existence and commitment to them. Yet they hardened their hearts against the Lord when the time came for them to claim their promised land. Also, they refused to believe God would give them victory over the people of Canaan. The Hebrews rebelled and resisted Joshua and Caleb’s appeals by coming up with justifications for their disbelief. God responded to the Hebrews with harsh discipline. For 40 years, they wandered in the desert until the adults who defied Him were dead. The Lord considered the lesson about their resistance and discipline very important, so He repeated it in the New Testament. He didn’t want people to repeat the Israelites’ mistake and harden their hearts against Him. The way to a hardened heart is gradual. It begins with unbelief???that is, hearing but not accepting all or part of God’s Word. Instead, a person rebels and chooses to live his life without the Lord. He ignores his conscience and justifies unscriptural behavior. Eventually, his heart becomes so hardened that he’s no longer affected by the whisper of God’s Spirit. Stubbornly persisting in choosing our own way is dangerous. The Lord not only disciplines those who rebel against Him, but He also withholds opportunities and blessings. If we take seriously God’s warning not to rebel against Him, then we must always be obedient. As our heart grows more tender and receptive, we’ll find that we’re unable to sin without being convicted by the Spirit. Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children
of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I
am the LORD.
Leviticus 19:18, King James Version
June 2, 2007
VERSE:
Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to
the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the
revelation of Jesus Christ;
-- 1 Peter 1:13
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=1+Peter+1:13&translation=kjv
THOUGHT:
The reward of delayed gratification! If there were ever a verse
that did NOT match the whims of our "modern" society, this would
have to be it! Prepare ... be self-controlled ... focus your hopes
on the future ... none of those is an advertising slogan, but they
all are the sustaining truths of the great souls who have gone
before us!
PRAYER:
Eternal God, please help me have the patience and faithfulness
to let you fully form in me the character and the wisdom that my
world so much lacks and I so much need. In Jesus' name I pray.
Amen.
It is a poor thing to strike our colours to God when the ship is
going down under us; a poor thing to come to Him as a last
resort, to offer up "our own" when it is no longer worth
keeping. If God were proud, He would hardly have us on such
terms.
-- C. S. Lewis
In Touch Daily Devotional
by Dr. Charles Stanley
June 2 & 3, 2007 – The Hard-Hearted Believer – Hebrews 3:12-19 The believer’s path toward a hardened heart starts innocently enough. It’s easy to preoccupy ourselves with things that have little or no spiritual value. Once our focus turns away from God, it doesn’t take much for the distraction to use up greater amounts of time. We can become so absorbed in the diversion that we ignore spiritual matters. As our spiritual life suffers, we may give up private devotion and public worship. Anyone who spends time daily with the Lord will have a receptive heart. But the person who lays aside God’s Word gives Satan an opportunity. When we function apart from the Lord, our hearts can become deceitful and rebel against Him. A believer’s mind can easily be swayed by the deceitfulness of sin when he has a preoccupied mind and a distant heart. His sensitivity to the Holy Spirit dulls from the hard “shell” forming around his heart. As a result, the drifting Christian begins to find Satan’s false promises more tempting. He foolishly trusts in the deception and becomes more involved in sin. This leads to even greater preoccupation with non-spiritual matters. And, sadly, further neglect of his spiritual life. Believers aren’t immune to a hardened heart. We can become as insensitive to God’s voice as an unbeliever. But we have a way to remove the spiritual callus forming within us. By repenting and refocusing, we can return to devotion and worship and remain soft-hearted before God. 
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In Touch Daily Devotional
by Dr. Charles Stanley
May 30, 2007 – Our Inseparable Relationship – Romans 8:31-39 Welcome to the In Touch Devotional.
God is love. His nature requires Him to care for Creation unconditionally. This means no matter what a person does, even if he rejects God, the Lord won't stop loving him. After hearing that, many people may think of a dozen reasons why they're an exception. But Dr. Stanley insists that God loves each of us. The only thing preventing us from experiencing that love is our response. We can either believe our feelings or the truth of Scripture.
In Romans 8:31, Paul points out that God is on the side of the believer. He gave up His Son to death so we could be forgiven and enter into a relationship with the Almighty. Jesus' sacrifice alone is proof of God's love. But there are many additional expressions of His care.
The Lord has a purpose and plan for everyone's life. Romans 8:28 tells us He works every situation, good or bad, to our benefit. He's a loving Father who's interested and actively involved in our daily lives.
Some people read and intellectually believe every word of the Bible. But they still feel unloved because they judge themselves unworthy. Their doubt acts like a dam, keeping the flow of God's care from their hearts. The barrier stays as long as the person believes he or she must deserve God's love.
No sinner deserves pure love. God knows that. Yet, He freely gives His love anyway. The choice of whether or not to accept it is up to us. God gave us faculties for our use; each of them will receive its
proper reward. Then do not let us try to charm them to sleep,
but permit them to do their work until divinely called to
something higher.
-- Teresa of Avila
May 30, 2007
VERSE:
Oh that men would praise the LORD for his goodness, and for his
wonderful works to the children of men!
-- Psalm 107:31
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=Psalm+107:31&translation=kjv
THOUGHT:
I'm not sure I can fully comprehend "unfailing love." To always
do the loving thing, whether it's discipline or reward, fun or
pain, I'm not sure I can fully understand it. But I can tell you
this: I am eternally grateful for it! It's not hard to give thanks
for a God like ours!
PRAYER:
Thank you Almighty God for revealing yourself as Abba Father!
Thank you for loving me so much that you give me what I need, not
what I want or deserve! Thank you for the very many kindnesses and
loving deeds you have done for me. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen. Behold, happy is the man whom God correcteth: therefore despise
not thou the chastening of the Almighty.
Job 5:17, King James Version
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In Touch Daily Devotional
by Dr. Charles Stanley
May 29, 2007 – The Challenge of Forgiving Ourselves – Psalm 32:1-2 Welcome to the In Touch Devotional. Yesterday, we considered why people fail to forgive themselves. Today, let’s look at questions to ask yourself when you struggle with self-condemnation. First, Why should I continue to condemn myself when God no longer condemns me? Second, Is my self-condemnation drawing me closer to God, or is it driving me farther from Him? Third, What good am I doing by refusing to forgive myself? Fourth, Is my self-condemnation helping or hurting my relationships with others? Fifth, Does my refusal to forgive myself impress God? Does He find me more devout because of my guilt and shame? Sixth, Is there any biblical basis for not forgiving myself? Seventh, How long do I intend to condemn myself? What will be the end result? Normally, the answers to these questions are obvious. But if you’re stuck in a self-condemning mindset, the truth may seem hazy. Often, the only way to work through times of self-doubt and remorse is to focus on God and His will for your life. If you struggle with self-forgiveness, prayerfully consider these seven questions. Read them out loud. Let them work through your spirit. You may even want to open a journal and write down your thoughts as the Lord speaks to you. You’ll surely face some intense heart struggles as you consider these points, and as God reorders your thoughts about yourself. Knowledge of God can be fully given to man only in a Person,
never in a doctrine. Faith is not the holding of correct
doctrine, but personal fellowship with the living God.
-- William Temple
May 29, 2007
VERSE:
And Aaron shall bear the names of the children of Israel in the
breastplate of judgment upon his heart, when he goeth in unto the
holy place, for a memorial before the LORD continually.
-- Exodus 28:29
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=Exodus+28:29&translation=kjv
THOUGHT:
In a symbolic way, the Priest had all the people of Israel "on
his heart when he entered the Holy place." Jesus, our ultimate
Priest, had our sins on his back and our forgiveness on his heart
when he went to the Cross for us!
PRAYER:
Tender Shepherd, I know you love me because of the great price
you paid to redeem me from my sins. Thank you for having me on your
heart despite my sometimes rebellious and unfaithful ways. In
Jesus' name I pray. Amen.
And thou, Solomon my son, know thou the God of thy father, and
serve him with a perfect heart and with a willing mind: for the
LORD searcheth all hearts, and understandeth all the
imaginations of the thoughts: if thou seek him, he will be found
of thee; but if thou forsake him, he will cast thee off for
ever.
1 Chronicles 28:9, King James Version
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In Touch Daily Devotional
by Dr. Charles Stanley
May 28, 2007 – Obstacles to Forgiving Ourselves – Psalm 51:10-12 Welcome to the In Touch Devotional. Every human being has a sin problem. We all lose our tempers, make mistakes, and do things that seem completely out of character. Sin is a universal problem. But God provided forgiveness for everyone who’ll accept it. Why do many believers find it impossible to forgive themselves? First, we struggle with self-forgiveness at times because we find it difficult to accept God’s forgiveness. Guilt can be so strong that it may seem to overshadow the enormous gift of pardon and restoration that God freely provides. We may think our past actions are so terrible that God would never forgive us. That’s a tragic error. Second, personal disappointment can prevent us from forgiving ourselves. We often have ridiculously high, self-imposed standards for our behavior and accomplishments. When we fail to achieve them, we’re all but crippled by disappointment. This makes self-forgiveness seem impossible. Third, seeing the results of our sin can block self-forgiveness. If our wrong actions produce tangible negative consequences, we may become so blinded by the result that we can’t forgive ourselves. Seeing the outcome of sin every day keeps guilt alive in our minds. As a result, we may simply refuse to let it go. Are you harboring guilt and remorse for past sin? First John 1:9 says God’s forgiveness is available now. Christ gave His life to make you free. Take Galatians 5:1 to heart. Don’t willingly stay in chains because you’re unwilling to forgive yourself for something God has already forgiven. From time immemorial men have quenched their thirst with water
without knowing anything about its chemical constituents. In
like manner we do not need to be instructed in all the mysteries
of doctrine, but we do need to receive the Living Water which
Jesus Christ will give us and which alone can satisfy our souls.
-- Sadhu Sundar Singh
May 28, 2007
VERSE:
I the LORD have called thee in righteousness, and will hold
thine hand, and will keep thee, and give thee for a covenant of the
people, for a light of the Gentiles;
-- Isaiah 42:6
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=Isaiah+42:6&translation=kjv
THOUGHT:
God chose the Israelites to be his special nation. This wasn't
because they were better or brighter than other nations. No, God
chose them because of his love for Abraham and so he could bless
all nations of the earth through his chosen people.
PRAYER:
Father, I know you have blessed me with your salvation because
of your great mercy, grace, and kindness. In turn, please empower
me as I try to share your great blessings with others. In Jesus'
name I pray. Amen.
Whoso walketh uprightly shall be saved: but he that is perverse
in his ways shall fall at once.
Proverbs 28:18, King James Version
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Now the great thing is this: we are consecrated and dedicated to God in order that we may thereafter think, speak, meditate, and do, nothing except to his glory. For a sacred thing may not be applied to profane uses without marked injury to him. -- John CalvinMay 27, 2007 VERSE: But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God. -- Acts 20:24 http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=Acts+20:24&translation=kjvTHOUGHT: How important is grace? Paul said that God's grace and telling others about that grace were more important than his own life! In fact, sharing God's grace with others no matter the cost was Paul's life! PRAYER: Almighty God, Holy Father, thank you for your lavish grace demonstrated and fully expressed in sending Jesus to die for me. As your child, and in thanks to your sacrificial gift, I pledge to you my life, my love, and my all. Through Jesus. Amen. A fool uttereth all his mind: but a wise man keepeth it in till afterwards. Proverbs 29:11, King James Version 
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In Touch Daily Devotional
by Dr. Charles Stanley
May 25, 2007 – Unshakeable Faith – John 15:1-7 Welcome to the In Touch Devotional. Faith matures in hardship. It’s during trials that we as believers clearly recognize our dependence on the Lord. When we allow the roots of our trust to sink deeper into God, He enables us to stand firm through anything. Adversity won’t intimidate believers who have unshakable faith. These Christians will remain calm through any trying situation because they’re holding fast to their confidence in God. The key to such rock-solid faith is an intimate relationship with God. In John 15:5, Jesus said, “I am the vine, you are the branches; he who abides in Me and I in him, he bears much fruit, for apart from Me you can do nothing.” Once saved, believers have complete access to God. His Spirit lives and works in us and provides a constant connection to Him. All the power of Heaven is available. But we have a choice whether to tap into that power. If we neglect prayer, avoid reading the Bible, and try to keep certain situations from God’s control, then our relationship with Him will be distant. We will limit the Lord’s work in our life. But when we commit to know God and obey scriptural principles, His power surges through us. It’s like sap flowing through a branch to bring new growth. Intimately understanding God leads to obedience because the believer knows the power and trustworthiness of the One he serves. Obedience, especially during hard times, develops our faith. As Isaiah 61:3 says, we’ll eventually grow into unshakable “oaks of righteousness.” Christianity is a religion which concerns us as we are here and
now, creatures of body and soul. We do not "follow the footsteps
of his most holy life" by the exercise of a trained religious
imagination, but by treading the firm, rough earth, up hill and
down dale.
-- Evelyn Underhill
May 25, 2007
VERSE:
Wherefore is there a price in the hand of a fool to get wisdom,
seeing he hath no heart to it?
-- Proverbs 17:16
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=Proverbs+17:16&translation=kjv
THOUGHT:
What do you value more, money or wisdom? Look closely at our
verse. Money without wisdom is really worthless. It will not be put
to good use and will soon evaporate in the hands of one who is
foolish. Like Solomon, rather than pursuing riches or fame, let's
pursue godly wisdom and the other things will take care of
themselves.
PRAYER:
Eternal God and wise Father, please give me the wisdom to know
what is most important for me to pursue with my time, efforts, and
money. Please bless me with your holy wisdom, so that I may invest
my life in what is truly meaningful and live to your glory. In
Jesus' name I pray, Amen.
The wicked worketh a deceitful work: but to him that soweth
righteousness shall be a sure reward.
Proverbs 11:18, King James Version
In Touch Daily Devotional
by Dr. Charles Stanley
May 24, 2007 – David: Forward By Faith – 1 Samuel 17:31-51 Welcome to the In Touch Devotional. Believers can learn a valuable lesson from David’s reaction to Goliath’s insults and mockery of the Israelites. When the young shepherd first came upon the scene, he was told that whoever defeated the giant would receive rewards from King Saul. This included riches, a wife, and freedom from taxes. Such a generous reward was certainly a great motivator. It obviously piqued his interest. But David’s desire to defend God’s honor ultimately propelled him onto the battlefield. David confirmed his true motivation on two separate occasions: once while standing before Saul and again when facing Goliath. In 1 Samuel 17:31-51, he said, “Your servant has killed both the lion and the bear; and this uncircumcised Philistine will be like one of them, since he has taunted the armies of the living God.” As maturing Christians, we must examine our motives for desiring victory in any battle we face. Sometimes, we may seek a selfish end, such as release from discomfort and a return to an easier way of life. But God intends to mold us into godly believers, regardless of our comfort. Until we also desire a godly makeover, our motivations will be wrong. A person with right motives says, “I don’t like my ‘Goliath.’ But if I have to fight this battle to be the person God wants me to be, then I’m willing.” Before taking action, David wisely examined his motives in order to move forward by faith. Modern believers would do well to learn from his example. 
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The childish idea that prayer is a handle by which we can take
hold of God and obtain whatever we desire, leads to easy
disillusionment with both what we had thought to be God and what
we had thought to be prayer.
-- Robert L. Short
In Touch Daily Devotional
by Dr. Charles Stanley
May 21, 2007 – Unforgiveness and Hate – Ephesians 4:31-32 Welcome to the In Touch Devotional. One of the most destructive attitudes for a Christian is hate. Think about it. How well can the saving light of Jesus Christ shine in a life that is totally covered in hatred, anger, or rage? And what picture of Christ does this type of person show to the unbelieving world? Hate is a total breakdown in the Christlike attitude we’re called to exhibit. But even in churches, it’s not hard to find individuals boiling over with hostility. Where does it come from? One of the key reasons believers can be prone to hatred is the inability to forgive those who caused them an undeserved hurt. Let’s take a “hate test.” Think about someone who hurt you in the past, and consider these three “heart checks.” First, if you hate someone, you cannot shake the memory. Does the scene play out in your mind over and over? Second, if you hate someone, you cannot wish him or her well. Can you still wish the best for a person who’s hurt you? Third, if you hate someone, you want that person to hurt just as you hurt. Do you secretly desire this individual to experience the same pain you felt? If these questions revealed any hidden animosity in your heart, don’t leave your chair until you prayerfully meditate on Ephesians 4:31-32. Read the passage aloud. Personalize it into your prayer. And let God’s Holy Spirit cleanse your heart of hatred by empowering you to forgive an old hurt. The wicked flee when no man pursueth: but the righteous are bold
as a lion.
Proverbs 28:1, King James Version
May 22, 2007
VERSE:
But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come
upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and
in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the
earth.
-- Acts 1:8
http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=Acts+1:8&translation=kjv
THOUGHT:
Sometimes the most profound truths are very simple. The power to
reach the world for Christ involves God's might through the Holy
Spirit, God's plan of beginning where we are and reaching out to
the world, and our willingness to tell others what God has done for
us in Jesus.
PRAYER:
Father of all people, fill us with your powerful Holy Spirit,
enable us to be effective in sharing our faith, and motivate us to
reach our city, our region, and our world with the Gospel. I still
believe, Father, that you desire to do in our day what happened
long ago. Make your Name great. Exalt your holiness in the eyes of
all people. Use me and the rest of your people to accomplish your
will of reaching all nations with the Gospel of grace. In the name
of the Lord Jesus Christ I pray. Amen.
Jesus remains unshaken as the practical man; and we stand
exposed as the fools, the blunderers, the unpractical
visionaries.
-- George Bernard Shaw
The beginning of strife is as when one letteth out water:
therefore leave off contention, before it be meddled with.
Proverbs 17:14, King James Version
To make the improving of our own character our central aim is
hardly the highest kind of goodness. True goodness forgets
itself and goes out to do the right thing for no other reason
than that it is right.
-- Lesslie Newbigin
In Touch Daily Devotional
by Dr. Charles Stanley
May 23, 2007 – The Faith that Conquers – First Samuel 17:1-30 Welcome to the In Touch Devotional. The well-known story of David and Goliath teaches modern believers about faith that conquers. At some point, everyone faces a Goliath in his or her life. Whether the “giant” is human or some overwhelming situation, victorious people, like David, trust God to see them through any challenge. For David, past experience proved God was faithful. In 1 Samuel 17:36, the young shepherd recalled God giving him victory over a lion and a bear that threatened his flock. In a similar way, we strengthen our faith by reading how the Lord protected men and women in the Bible. We also learn to trust God by remembering His provision in our lives. For this reason, Dr. Stanley urges people to keep a journal. When facing a challenge, believers can look back and be strengthened by the knowledge of God’s prior trustworthiness. Trusting the Lord gives us the courage to face our “giants.” We can then respond to difficulty on the basis of three important truths. The first is our identity in Christ. We’re adopted children who are eternally secure with the indwelling power of the Holy Spirit. Second, it’s important to know who Christ is in us???our Savior and Provider. The third important truth we should know is, in Christ, we have the promise of access to almighty God. The victorious believer knows that the Lord is making him adequate for any difficult situation. That’s why God gives us the Holy Spirit. When we depend upon God, we’ll conquer our “Goliaths.” 
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