Viewing 1 - 9 out of 122 Blogs.

Page:  1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | Next >  Last >>

I have so much to do (today) that I should spend the first three
hours in prayer.

-- Martin Luther

June 27, 2007

 

A Rock that Is Higher

By Van Walton

 

“From the end of the earth I call to You when my heart is faint;
Lead me to the rock that is higher than I.” Psalm 61:2 (NASB)

 

Devotion:

Do you ever allow others’ dispositions to dictate your mood? I do. I believe most women allow themselves to become preoccupied when they perceive that a member of their household seems overly… well just not “with it” for some reason.

If my son is struggling with his grades, I struggle. Listening to his brother describe his life’s challenges, I take on the burden. When my husband is under stress, I stress out.

 

I recall my dad’s long illness. Life literally came to a halt for me. How could I go about my daily routine when Daddy was suffering so? I simply could not function knowing his condition. Initially the details of his failing health overwhelmed me. Slowly sadness consumed me. Eventually my preoccupation with Daddy’s deterioration paralyzed me. I lost my ability to function.

 

I know God commands us to bear each others’ burdens. The problem with me is that I don’t stop at “bear.” I carry my concerns to extremes. I feel like a traitor if I ignore difficult issues being faced by the ones I love. I feel I need to be in mourning, wearing black, dragging myself and everyone around me into my grieving experience.

 

Misery loves company, right? However, God’s Word commands us to rejoice in all things! Where’s the balance?

 

Recently I caught my husband being overly pensive. It concerned me. That Sunday morning he remained extraordinarily quiet. I tried to justify his silence - He has been coughing. Maybe he’s getting sick. Yet he assured me all was well. On the way to church I sensed tenseness in the air between us. I wondered, Is it something I have done? I thought, Maybe he isn’t telling me because it is way more serious than I can handle. Quickly I sent up a prayer. But I have to admit that when we parked the car, I parked my thoughts on worry. In church he leaned forward and placed his head in his hands. My upward climb toward a meaningful worship experience came to a halt.

 

With a momentous note the piano brought the congregation to life, while the worship director motioned for us to all stand. In one accord the congregation collectively pierced the room with a song of praise. I looked up to my husband, seeking assurance that all was well. Before my eyes found his face, God interrupted my contemplations by reminding me of a childhood experience.

 

The children in my neighborhood would hike up into the surrounding hills. We’d spend the week discussing last Saturday’s hike. While making plans to explore mountain tops and peaks, we challenged ourselves to higher goals and longer hikes. Each Saturday morning we pointed out a spot far in the distance and made that our destination. Inevitably, when we arrived at our spot, we agreed to move higher. There was always a place ahead, higher still.

 

God reminded me that Sunday morning as I looked up at my tall husband for strength, assurance, and comfort, that I had not focused on a high enough place.

My husband is powerful, confident, and secure, but I place too many expectations on him! When he exhibits signs of instability, I lose my footing! I know this is not my heavenly Father’s plan.

 

With sounds of worship all around, God grabbed my attention. I heard Him say, “Don’t stop here. There is a place that is higher…” With a deep sense of comfort, I joined the congregation with songs of praise for the One who is higher than I. He is God, the Almighty who sits on His throne. He is the one who has compassion on my worldly circumstances, understands my moody moments, and is able to take control of my confusions. He is my goal, the direction I need to take, and the face I need to seek.

 

Dear Lord, I am guilty of allowing the things of earth, my family, preoccupations, challenges, and struggles to get in the way of my climb to the ultimate high. You are the place I want to go. Keep me moving until I reach You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

 

Related Resources:

From the Pound to the Palace by Van Walton

 

A Woman’s Secret to a Balanced Life by Lysa TerKeurst and Sharon Jaynes

 

DO YOU KNOW HIM?

 

Application Steps:

If you do not own a hymnal, consider getting one. The words to the old songs are as rich as their music. Find in your hymnal “Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus” and sing it. Or you can go here to find the words to the song online.

 

Reflections:

Do I have an unhealthy dependence that takes my focus off God? Create a list of your dependencies.

 

What steps can I take to keep myself focused on Jesus?

 

Power Verses: Psalm 3:4, “I was crying to the LORD with my voice, and He answered me from His holy mountain.” (NASB)

Hebrews 12:1-2 a, “…let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus…” (NLT)

In Touch Daily Devotional
by Dr. Charles Stanley

---

June 27, 2007 – The Consequences of Indulging Weaknesses – Judges 13:24-25

At salvation, believers become new creations set apart for God’s purposes. The Lord has a specific plan for the life of every believer. And Second Peter 1: 3 says He provides every believer the resources to accomplish his purposes.

Consider Samson. At the time of his birth, Israel was under Philistine rule. Judges 21:25 says people in that wicked culture “did what was right in own eyes.” God ordained Samson be set apart for His service. As Judges 13:5 says, Samson was the one who would “begin to deliver Israel from the hands of the Philistines.” To prepare Samson for this mission, the Lord gave him godly parents. God blessed him with an upbringing uncontaminated by the culture. The Lord also gifted him with incredible human strength. Samson was greatly blessed as he matured. He became Judge over Israel, with the authority to carry out God’s will.

God equipped Samson with everything he needed to fulfill the Lord’s purpose. But Samson had a weakness ??? lust. He chose to indulge his desire, and it eventually led to his downfall. As a result, he ended up a prisoner, no longer in a position to fulfill his God-given purpose.

The Lord equips us with the ability to resist giving in to our weaknesses. But we must be willing to turn away from temptation and follow the Lord. Samson had enormous potential to demonstrate righteousness on behalf of God. So do we. But he chose sin and suffered the consequences. Will you turn to God for help today or indulge in your weakness?

The Elements of Prayer|Its ground: God, by whose goodness it
springeth in us. |Its use: to turn our will to His will. |Its
end: to be made one with Him and like to Him in all things.

-- Julian of Norwich

In Touch Daily Devotional
by Dr. Charles Stanley

---

June 26, 2007 – Times of Temptation – 1 Corinthians 10:6-13

The Scriptures teach that every one of us will occasionally be tempted to do the opposite of what God commands. The circumstances we face aren’t unique. Others have faced similar situations. As we learned yesterday, we can “H.A.L.T.” some of our times of weakness. You can prevent becoming too hungry, angry, lonely or tired by eating regularly, experiencing God’s peace, fellowshipping with others, and getting enough rest.

But where does the urge to sin come from? The source of temptation is the culture, the Devil, or something within ourselves. The world wants us to join its sensual, selfish pursuits. Satan wants to turn us away from God. And our sin nature wants us to be in control, not the Lord.

Does God ever tempt us? No. James 1:13 says our Father doesn’t want us to do evil. But He will test us to reveal our motives and attitudes. And He also uses times of testing to mature us and transform us into Christlikeness. His work is always for our good.

Is it sinful to experience temptation? No. Feeling tempted isn’t the same as committing a sin. The Devil tempted Jesus at a time of great weariness and physical need He had spend 40 days in the desert without food. Don’t judge yourself harshly when you feel tempted toward ungodliness. Only when you act upon it do you cross the line into sin.

The Lord knows exactly how to rescue us in times of temptation. How good are you at responding to His direction?

 

Largest Database of Images
For Comments And Profiles at
FreeCommentTags.com

Hello moms to be. I'm looking for 6 ladies to participate with me in a Bib/Onsie exchange. Another mom to be has sent this to me and I need six other ladies to particpate. The instructions are pretty simple.

"It’s a Bib Exchange!! Have you heard of the Panty Exchange? It’s the same thing, but we’ll be doing bibs or onesies. Send one new Bib or Onesie with the tags still attached to the person listed as #1. Then send a copy of this letter to six other people you know having babies. Move my name to the #1 slot and then list yours as #2 on your letters. This is not a chain letter, but it is meant for fun!

If you cannot do this in one week, please notify me because it is not fair to the people who have participated and are waiting for the very own bib or onesie to arrive. I will then send the letter to someone else.

A manilla envelope mails these items nicely, and you will receive 36 Bibs or Onesies in exchange for buying just one!! It’s fun to see the variety you will get. Be sure to include which item you want and the color in case you know if it’s a boy or a girl. If you don’t know, jut put yellow or green, or whatever other color you would like.

Seldom does anyone drop out because we all could use some fun and help buying the little things for our new arrivals. Remember, 36 for the price of 1! You should receive your item in about 2 weeks… that is, if you get your 6 letters out right away. Please don’t be responsible for spoiling the fun and stopping the flow for everyone."

Once you email me I will send the two address along to start the chain. I'm looking for 6 but more can post if desired. We will share you with others in the chain. I got a week so get to it.

Email your names and addies here please... lil_wifey21@yahoo.com with Bib/Onesie Exchange as the subject. THANKS!!

Prayer is a wine which makes glad the heart of man.

-- Bernard of Clairvaux

The primary object of prayer is to know God better; we and our
needs should come second.

-- Florence Allshorn

In Touch Daily Devotional
by Dr. Charles Stanley

---

June 25, 2007 – Moments of Weakness – 2 Samuel 11:1-5

Scripture is filled with descriptions of men and women who sinned in moments of weakness. The first of these true stories is Adam and Eve. First Corinthians 10:11 says these stories are given for our instruction. God wants us to learn from the mistakes of others.

King David’s idleness caused his mind to contemplate adultery with Bathsheba. Weariness led Elijah to view death as preferable to life. Genesis 3:6 indicates pride may have played a part in Eve listening to the serpent. Lust may have prompted Solomon to desire many wives, including unbelieving ones. Add to these a sense of spiritual or emotional neediness and emptiness, and we have at least six situations that are fertile ground for temptation. In some biblical examples, temptation was resisted. But in others, the individuals gave in. We can all identify.

The many different types of temptation follow a similar pattern. The eye looks, the mind desires, and the will acts. King David looked at Uriah’s wife and inquired about her. Then, he acted. Joshua 7:20-21 tells the story of Achan. He helped in the Jericho conquest and noticed all the material wealth. Then, he coveted it in his mind and took what he wanted.

Regardless of the reason for vulnerability, each person is responsible for his actions. In times of weakness, don’t let yourself become too Hungry, Angry, Lonely, or Tired. Dr. Stanley has turned that warning into the acronym “H.A.L.T.” Most importantly, fix your attention on the Lord. Draw strength from Him, and experience victory over temptation.

 

June 25, 2007

 

Can I Lick the Spoon?

By Wendy Pope

 

“So the last will be first, and the first will be last." Matthew 20:16 (NIV)

 

Devotion:

I find it easy to send clothes, money, food, and other necessities to those in need, but struggle with the serious sickness of a selfish spirit. The very idea of being last is not something I have wanted to embrace much less put to practice. After all don't I deserve some simple pleasures in life? I work hard at my job. I take good care of my family. They are always fed, and most the time the meal is fairly nutritious. Everyone sleeps in bed with sheets that are clean and wake up to clean clothes to wear each day. So why shouldn’t I have a few simple pleasures in life that I can call my own, like licking the chocolate syrup off the spoon. Let me explain.

 

With two children in the house I often have the opportunity to come last. A tradition in my life since I was young girl is making chocolate milk with Hershey'sÔ syrup. The highlight of the experience is licking the chocolate off the spoon when the milk is mixed. This is a pleasure that I had managed to keep to myself until about six months ago. My six-year-old observed me enjoying the delightfully sweet treat after mixing his milk one day. Since my secret pleasure has been revealed, I rarely get to enjoy the treat.

 

One particular day when I had been the hands and feet of Jesus to many people, served faithfully in every area of my responsibilities, I wanted a treat. No, I knew I deserved a treat! Then it happened???my son asked to lick the spoon. I wish I could say that with the love of Jesus, I handed him the spoon, but I stood there in a mental argument with the Lord reminding Him of all the great things I had done that day. In a silent pause, I was reminded that I was here to serve not to be served, so I handed the spoon to my son.

 

Laying down what you think you deserve is difficult. Putting others needs and wants in front of your own does not come naturally. It requires a minute-by-minute reliance on the Holy Spirit to enable you to live beyond yourself.

 

No matter what season of life you are currently in, someone will inevitably ask to lick the chocolate off your spoon, the very pleasure you believe you deserve. Let me encourage you to live beyond yourself in that moment and hand them the spoon. The blessing you give will come back to you ten-fold. Do you know how I can make that statement? I can because I have lived this truth. After I gave my son the spoon, I remembered that I could dip the spoon right in the can to get as much syrup as I wanted and I did.

 

 

Lord, I understand that by nature I have a selfish spirit. It is my desire to live outside of that nature and to live in Your nature, a nature of gentleness and kindness. Help me to do this today. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

 

Related Resources

Listen to Today's Radio Show

Do You Know Him?

 

Out of the Mouths of Babes by Wendy Pope

 

Application Steps:

In your journal, draw a table with four columns. Head the first column with your name. Then write the names of those you have been selfish to within the last week. Title the second column: act of selfishness. Then write down the act of selfishness you showed to each person. Title column three: one act of kindness. Then write one act of kindness you can do for this person. Title the four column date. Record the date to show the act of kindness.

 

Reflection Points:

Do I enjoy giving?

 

Who am I most selfish toward and why?

 

Do I have any unforgiveness or bitterness in my heart that causes me to be more selfish to some individuals than others?

 

Power Verses:

Psalm 86:11, "Teach me your way, O LORD, and I will walk in your truth; give me an undivided heart, that I may fear your name." (NIV)

 

2 Corinthians 9:7, "Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver." (NIV)

 

Galatians 5:22 , "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness." (NIV)

Largest Database of Images
For Comments And Profiles at
FreeCommentTags.com

In Touch Daily Devotional
by Dr. Charles Stanley

---

June 23 & 24, 2007 – The Picture of Baptism – Acts 8:26-39

Pictures frequently communicate in ways that words cannot. For example, a photo or painting may bring emotions that words can’t describe. In the same way, baptism is a powerful picture of our salvation experience.

When we enter the waters of baptism, we’re proclaiming the gospel message. Jesus died for our sins, was buried, and lives again. By proclaiming His message, we’re identifying ourselves with Him. Romans 6:4 says we have been buried with Him through baptism into death. We’re now dead to the power of sin. Being raised up out of the water expresses our new life in Christ and our union with Him. Our heavenly Father physically raised Jesus from the dead and gave Him life. And He’s done the same for us spiritually. Our unbelieving family and friends need to “see” this message in our life.

Baptism is also a public declaration of our faith in the resurrection of Jesus Christ, and in our own future resurrection. After appearing on earth, Jesus ascended into heaven to take His rightful place at His Father’s side. Someday we’ll receive a resurrection body and live forever with Him.

The image of baptism serves as a reminder of what the Savior has done for us. It points to the truth that there’s life beyond the grave. Everlasting existence in the presence of the Lord is waiting for every person who chooses to trust in Christ. Baptism is a commandment, not an option. As such, it’s both an obligation and an awesome privilege. Have you publicly identified yourself with Jesus through the act of baptism?

Jesus is our mouth, through which we speak to the Father; He is
our eye, through which we see the Father; He is our right hand
through which we offer ourselves to the Father. Unless He
intercedes, there is no intercourse with God.

-- St. Ambrose

In Touch Daily Devotional
by Dr. Charles Stanley

---

June 22, 2007 – The Importance of Baptism – Matthew 3:13-17

Children sometimes identify themselves with superheroes or other characters. For a season, they’ll adopt the mannerisms, dress, and speech patterns of their current favorite. As Christians, we’re supposed to imitate Jesus.

Our Savior commands us to follow His example in all things, including baptism: Matthew 28:19 says, “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.” At the beginning of His public ministry, Jesus chose to be baptized. John the Baptist was calling the Jewish people to confess their sins and demonstrate repentance through immersion in the Jordan River. Sinless Jesus joined the crowd at the river and asked John to baptize Him. The Lord chose to affiliate Himself with sinful man. When we follow His example in the waters of baptism, we’re publicly confessing our faith in the Savior and identifying ourselves with Him.

Baptism allows us to demonstrate our connection with Jesus and with our brothers and sisters in Christ. We’re all members of one body under the authority of the same Lord. But it’s important to remember that Ephesians 2:8-9 says faith in Jesus Christ is the only requirement for salvation, not baptism. But, to fulfill His command, we’re to be baptized following our decision to accept Him into our lives.

Luke 11:33 says we should never hide our belief in Jesus. We should express it through our words and actions. Have you matched your confession of faith with baptism?

The discussion of prayer is so great that it requires the Father
to reveal it, His firstborn Word to teach it, and the Spirit to
enable us to think and speak rightly of so great a subject.

-- Origen

June 22, 2007

 

Just Say Baaaa!

By MaryBeth Whalen

 

“We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to his own way; and the Lord has laid on Him the iniquity of us all.” (Isaiah 53:6, NIV)

 

Devotion:

I spent some time this morning just confessing before God that I am a sheep. And I don’t mean that in an “I’m not fat, I’m fluffy” kind of way. I mean in a dirty, smelly, dumb animal kind of way. Let me explain.

 

As I was praying, I noticed myself once again asking God for some affirmation and encouragement on a specific issue. Now, I have asked for this before - many times, in fact. And God is faithful to answer each and every time. And so, there I was again, asking Him to supply something I know He knows we have already covered. Why can’t I accept this covering once and for all? Why can’t I rest on His promises and accept Him at His word, once and for all? As I listened to myself asking my Heavenly Father for the same thing all over again, I wondered, “Why doesn’t He get tired of me already and tell me to go bother someone else?” And I realized, because I am a sheep. And He expects me to act like a sheep.

 

As I thought about this, I realized how many other dumb sheep things I do daily. I lose my way. I ask questions for which I already know the answers. My attitude stinks. I ram my head against the same brick wall, hoping for different results. I wander off from Him and then pout because I feel like He’s not there for me. I am a sheep. Yet, He is the Shepherd. Ezekiel 34:11-12a says, “For this is what the Sovereign Lord says: I myself will search for my sheep and look after them. As a shepherd looks after his scattered flock when he is with them, so will I look after my sheep” (NIV). How I need the comfort, nurture and protection of the Shepherd.

 

After I spent time just confessing how sheep-like I am, I spent time praising Him for His infinite patience with us, His flock. I praised Him for knowing how dirty, smelly and dumb we are and loving us anyway. I praised Him that He knows how very little we have to offer and accepts it as our gift to Him. A shepherd doesn’t expect his sheep to be wolves or eagles or anything other than sheep. Knowing that comforted me in the strangest sort of way. I love knowing that He leaves the 99 to get the one lost, hopeless sheep. (Matthew 18:12-13 NIV). He doesn’t pick the sheep up and yell at it for acting like a sheep. Instead He patiently, lovingly carries it back to the flock and resumes His watch.

 

I love knowing that when I bring my little insecurities to Him, revealing my weaknesses and confusion, He doesn’t say, “How can you be so stupid?” He says, “I expected nothing less from a sheep” and loves me anyway.

 

I hope that, like me, this will comfort you today. I hope that when you feel lost, hopeless, and smelly or just plain dumb for making the same mistakes or going to God with the same requests, you will just reflect on being a sheep. Spend time thanking Him for loving you anyway and being your Shepherd every day.

 

Dear Lord, thank You for being my Shepherd, and for loving me even when I act like a sheep. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

 

Related Resources:

For the Write Reason by Select Authors, Edited by Marybeth Whalen

 

P31 Woman Magazine

 

Do You Know Him?

 

Application Steps:

Do a word study in your Bible concordance on the words “Sheep” and “Shepherd.” How does reading these verses comfort you? Write your own psalm to God praising Him for His willingness to love us even though we are sheep.

 

Reflections:

What sheep-like things have you done lately? Have you been beating yourself up for behaving like a sheep? Do you realize that God expects you to mess up, and loves you even when you do? Thank Him for this, and ask Him to help you be a better sheep today.

 

Power Verses:

Psalm 23:1 “The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not be in want. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he restores my soul.” (NIV)

 

Psalm 28:9, “Save your people and bless your inheritance; be their shepherd and carry them forever.” (NIV)

 

John 10:14-15, “I am the good shepherd. I know my sheep and my sheep know me???just as the Father knows me and I know the Father???and I lay down my life for the sheep.” (NIV)

 

Largest Database of Images
For Comments And Profiles at
FreeCommentTags.com

Christ is the master; the Scriptures are only the servant.

-- Martin Luther

If you enjoyed this newsletter, forward it on to a friend.If this message was forwarded to you from a friend, signup for your own subscription here.FREE ECARDS


Send this Card


Send this Card


Send this Card Find The Love of Your Life Today

Equip our soldiers abroad with the Gospel

Start a Home-Based Business

Advertise with us
Crosswalk.com is a member of the Salem Web Network of sites including:

Oneplace.com
Lightsource.com
ChristianJobs.com
CrossCards.com
BibleArcade.com
Christianity.com

In Touch Daily Devotional
by Dr. Charles Stanley

---

June 21, 2007 – Jesus, the Perfect God-Man – John 20:30-31

A person’s attitude toward Jesus Christ tends to fall into one of three categories. First, some people don’t believe He’s God. They reject, ignore, or diminish His character and lifesaving work, claiming He was simply a “good” person. Second, others may intellectually acknowledge Jesus is God’s Son but have no personal relationship with Him. Third, His true followers believe in their heart that Christ is Savior. As a result of genuine faith, believers become part of His family.

Ephesians 2:1-2 says that before salvation, we’re spiritually dead. During this time, we live according to our sin nature. Those who don’t have a personal relationship with Jesus remain in that state. But when someone places faith in Him, spiritual birth takes place. Then, he’s made alive in Christ and becomes a new creation. The new believer no longer lives according to the “flesh.”

Our position in the Lord affects everything about us, including our attitudes, emotions, conversation, and conduct. The culture’s ungodliness no longer fits our character. As believers, we’re to grow in Christlikeness. We’re to embrace ideas, thought patterns, and activities which are pleasing to God, while rejecting all others.

Jesus willingly took our sins upon Himself. He experienced divine wrath in our place. God accepted His death as full payment for our sins. Ephesians 1:20 says the Lord raised Jesus from the dead to a position of divine glory. His Spirit now lives within us. Understand who Jesus Christ is. Let that knowledge strengthen your commitment to be like Him.

 

Largest Database of Images
For Comments And Profiles at
FreeCommentTags.com

June 20, 2007

 

Just a Reminder

By Melissa Taylor

 

“I know the Lord is always with me. I will not be shaken, for he is right beside me.” Psalm 16:8 (NLT)

 

Devotion:

A few months ago, I went to a weight loss center. Once again, I was ready to lose weight. The first thing my encouraging counselor asked me to do was to write a letter to myself. “Why?” I asked. She replied, “I want you to remember how you feel right now and why getting healthy is a priority in your life. Over time, you may forget. If you do, I’m going to mail it to you to serve as just a reminder.”

 

I have found that I often need reminders. I’m a visual person, so visual cues are quite useful to me. I have scripture cards on the inside of my cabinets to bring God’s Word to mind during the day. There is a picture of my niece in my car to remind me to pray for my sister’s family. My laundry room is covered with post it notes containing God’s Word reminding me to be thankful for the laundry I am doing and the blessings who wear those clothes. In our kitchen we have a calendar containing the family’s schedule and my life could not function without the reminders I keep in my daily planner. We need reminders to keep us on track, but we also need to be reminded of how special God is.

 

A few years ago I went to the store in search of a card for my husband. It wasn’t our anniversary or his birthday; I just wanted to get him a card reminding him of how special he was to me. An unexpected thing happened that day. The first card I picked up read:

 

In this stressful world,

Yours is the presence that quiets me,

The voice that calms me,

The touch that comforts me…

…the love that helps me remember what is most important in each day.

 

You’re everything to me.

 

As I closed this card, my eyes filled with tears. The words were beautiful, only they weren’t meant for my husband. They were meant for my Lord. I did not buy my sweet husband a card that day, and I think he would understand. I bought a card for God instead, to serve as just a reminder.

 

The words on this card remind me Who I can turn to, Who can comfort me, and Who should be my everything. And that person is not my husband. As great as Jeff is, he can never meet those needs in my life. No one person can - only God can. I need that reminder every day. Not only did I purchase this card, but I wrote a note to God on it and signed my name to it.

 

Be encouraged today that God wants to be your everything. He desires to be number one in your life. If you are like me, you may forget that at times. I carry that card around with me for that very reason, to serve as just a reminder.

 

Dear Lord, In this stressful world, Yours is the Presence that quiets me, the Voice that calms me, the Touch that comforts me, and the Love that helps me remember what is most important in each day. You’re Everything to me. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

 

Related Resources:

 

His Princess, Love Letters from Your King, by Sheri Rose Shepherd

 

Popsicles on the Porch, an ETC article by Trish Berg

 

Do You Know Him?

 

Application Steps:

Go to the store in search of a card for your Everything, God. Write a note to Him and sign your name to it. Carry this card in your purse or Bible to serve as just a reminder.

 

Reflections:

Do you remember daily Who your Everything is?

 

Are you putting your hope in anyone else but God?

 

Power Verses:

Psalm 18:1-3, “I love you Lord; you are my strength. The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my savior; my God is my rock, in whom I find protection. He is my shield, the strength of my salvation, and my stronghold. I will call on the Lord, who is worthy of praise, for he saves me from my enemies.” (NLT)

Christians are like the flowers in a garden, that have each of
them the dew of Heaven, which, being shaken with the wind, they
let fall at each other's roots, whereby they are jointly
nourished, and become nourishers of each other.

-- John Bunyan

In Touch Daily Devotional
by Dr. Charles Stanley

---

June 20, 2007 – Jesus, the Son of God – Luke 22:66-71

Jesus called Himself both the Son of Man and the Son of God. The first title emphasized His humanity; the second, His deity. Christ is the only person in history who was both God and man. He left heaven and laid aside His divine glory. Philippians 2:6-7 says He clothed himself with humanity.

Who recognized Christ’s divine nature?

The angels knew of His divinity. At Christ’s birth, the angel Gabriel told Mary she would bear a child. His name would be the Son of God.

Of course, God the Father knew Jesus’ nature. When John the Baptist baptized Jesus in the Jordan River, the heavenly Father declared, “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” Later, in Matthew 17:5, God affirmed this same truth and urged men and women to listen to Jesus.

Satan and his demons are aware of Jesus’ divinity. The Devil knew Jesus was God’s Son and challenged Him to use His supernatural powers to bypass God’s plan. In Luke chapter four, demons saw Jesus and shrieked that He was the Son of God.

When the disciples saw Jesus walk on water in the midst of the storm, they worshiped Him and realized He was the Son of God. In Matthew 16:16, Peter declared, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.”

Others knew Jesus’ divine nature too. When Christ brought Lazarus back to life, his sister Martha said, "Yes, Lord; I have believed that You are the Christ, the Son of God, even He who comes into the world."

The world needs to understand who Jesus is. What will you tell them?

 

 

Largest Database of Images
For Comments And Profiles at
FreeCommentTags.com

In Touch Daily Devotional
by Dr. Charles Stanley

---

June 19, 2007 – Our Financial Security – 2 Corinthians 9:6-8

Sometimes we make the mistake of viewing our resources as coming from our own efforts. But our blessings come from the Lord. If we focus on our bank balance or income, we may wrongly believe that we control our assets. This illusion of safety may be replaced by anxiety if we lose our job or suffer a serious illness.

Fixing our eyes on Jesus will bring genuine peace. True financial security is found in our relationship with the Lord, the owner of all things. It’s not found in our bank account or marketable skills. If security is based on our “net worth,” we’ll rarely feel we have enough money. But once we realize God is in charge of our resources, we’ll rest secure because we know He has our best interest in mind.

So why does Scripture address tithing? Tithes to the local church help the work of God’s kingdom continue. Another reason is we prove God’s faithfulness when we give ten percent of our income. Malachi 3:10-12 says we bring Him honor when others see He’s the source of our blessings. When our security rests in our relationship with Christ, we’ll be thankful for what we do have and will trust Him for the future.

As the Lord’s stewards, Christians are expected to invest their treasure, talents, and time as He directs. God rewards those who handle His money according to biblical guidelines. Those who don’t will lose out on blessings.

Encouragement for Today

Principle 1

 

“Signed, Sealed and Delivered”

Micca Monda Campbell, Director of Outreach, Speaker Team Member

 

Key Verse: 2 Timothy 4:17b-18, “And I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion. And the Lord will deliver me from every evil work and preserve me for His heavenly kingdom. To Him be glory forever and ever. Amen!” (NKJ)

 

Devotion:

I could hear my youngest son Parker and his friend Dan shooting hoops in the driveway through the open window while I worked upstairs. The sound of a car or truck stopping in front of the house caught my attention. I got up and looked out the window. Sure thing, a white truck was parked blocking the driveway with the engine running. The man had gotten out of his truck, while leaving its door open, and was talking with Dan. Unable to locate my son, I called from the window, “Hey, Dan! Where’s Parker?”

“He’s over there,” Dan shouted back, pointing to the top of the driveway. As I occupied Dan in conversation, I heard the man say, “thanks.” Then he returned to his truck and drove off. I watched from the window until he was a good distance away, and then I ran down the stairs and out the back door to check on the boys.

We live in a rural valley surrounded by green hills. A rippling creek accompanies the winding country road that leads to our ranch-style home. Often people stop at our corner lot because they are lost. I suspected the man was looking for directions to find his way back to the main road. Instead, he was looking for his dog, according to the boys.

 

“So why did he get out of his truck?” I asked. “I dunno,” the boys answered, unconcerned as they dribbled the basketball around me as if I wasn’t there. I stood motionless in deep thought, staring off in the direction I had last seen the truck as the boys played. Then the man suddenly appeared again, driving his truck slowly back down the street towards us.

 

He had his window down, calling for his dog. When he passed our driveway, he looked at me and nodded his head, but he didn’t stop to inquire if I had seen his dog. That seemed strange to me. If he was really concerned about his missing dog, why didn’t he ask if I had seen him? It just didn’t feel right. I decided to discuss the “dangers” of the situation with the boys.

 

Pretending to be the referee, I gave a whistle and called for time-out. The boys and I sat off court and devised a game plan about not talking to strangers.

That evening, the ten o’clock news released a warning about a man in a white truck who had tried to abduct a boy in our community. The reporter described a similar scene of a near abduction by someone in a white truck just an hour away from us. Cold chills ran through my body as I gasped.

 

“What?” my husband asked in response to my reaction. When I shared our afternoon with him, our son got another strategy lesson for safety from his dad.

 

I don’t know if the man on the news was the same guy who stopped at our house. Nor do I know if he was actually looking for his dog. All I know is my mommy antennas went up and my spirit was uneasy. It’s a good thing that man moved on because “mama bear” isn’t nice when she comes out to protect her cubs!

The next morning as I was thanking God for protecting my son and his friend, I wondered how many times we are unaware how God delivers us from evil. The boys never knew there was any danger. They were playing under my care. They had no worries, just faith that I would protect them. That kind of trust gave the boys freedom to run, jump and shoot hoops without concern.

 

Whether we realize it or not, our enemy Satan is like a roaring lion out to devour us, his prey. However, under the care of our heavenly Father, we do not need to fear. We can live in freedom, too, when we trust that our God is standing guard as our great Protector.

 

Satan has many tactics of destruction. Smutty-face, as I often call him, may be trying to use your co-worker or your overbearing boss to hold you hostage to feelings of resentment or jealousy that will eventually lead to your ruin. Perhaps his tool of destruction is the pain of a wayward child or a rocky marriage that’s keeping you from drawing near to God. It could be anger, depression or self-pity that the enemy is using to seduce you away from your peace of mind. These things may tempt you, and they may put fear in your heart, but they can’t steal you away from the Lord.

 

As children of God, we stand on the promises that we will be preserved. Nothing can snatch us from our Father’s hand. It’s a closed deal that nothing or no one can break, not even Smutty-face. Our contract with God, based on faith that Christ delivers us from sin and evil, is a covenant signed in the Lamb’s Book of Life and sealed by the Holy Spirit.

 

I wonder how many times each day our heavenly Father is working against the evil one on our behalf, and we have no idea about it. Thankfully, it’s more than we know.

 

My Prayer for Today:

Dear Lord, my heart is filled and overflowing with gratitude and love. Thank you for your loving protection from my enemy when I’m aware of it and when I am not. In Jesus Name, Amen.

 

Applications Steps:

There are many web sites like this one, www.familywatchdogs.us, where you can type in your home address to find if there are stalkers living near you. Awareness is good prevention. While we don’t want to scare our children, talking with them often about the many tactics abusers use will help your child know what to do if they find themselves in such a situation.

 

Reflections Points:

How can I best protect my child from an abductor?

 

Have I prepared my child for how to act around strangers?

 

Do I allow my child to be unsupervised in unfamiliar places?

 

How knowledgeable am I about offenders and who they stalk?

 

Power Verses:

Isaiah 19:20, “It will be a sign and witness to the Lord Almighty in the land of Egypt . When they cry out to the Lord because of their oppressors, He will send them a Savior and Defender, and He will rescue them.” (NLT)

 

Psalms 54:4, “Behold, God is my helper; The Lord is with those who uphold my life.” (NKJ)

 

Psalms 72:12, “For He will deliver the needy when he cries, The poor also, and him who has no helper.” (NKJ)

 

Hebrews 13:6, “So we may boldly say: "The Lord is my helper; I will not fear. What can man do to me?" (NKJ)

 

Additional Resources:

Web site to check if convicted sex offenders live near you:

www.familywatchdogs.us

 

The Mommy Manual, by Barbara Curtis

http://proverbs31.gospelcom.net/newresources_mommyManual.htm

 

“Spiritual Warfare and Praying for Your Kids,” ETC Corner Sept. 2004

http://proverbs31.gospelcom.net/etcSept04.htm

 

Have you stopped seeing great things happen in your life?
Perhaps you have stopped believing that God can work in a mighty
way even in our generation.

-- Luis Palau

 

Largest Database of Images
For Comments And Profiles at
FreeCommentTags.com

In Touch Daily Devotional
by Dr. Charles Stanley

---

June 18, 2007 – Giving God His Rightful Share – Malachi 3:7-12

Through the prophet Malachi, God issued a warning to the Israelites about their unacceptable stewardship. They weren’t properly handling the resources God entrusted to them. The Lord said to stop robbing Him of the tithe that was due Him. A tithe was ten percent of their income and was given in crops, animals, or with other resources.

Understanding certain biblical principles enables us to handle our earnings in a way that pleases God:

First, as Psalm 50:10-12 says, the Lord is the owner of all things. He created the heavens and the earth. He made all living creatures, birds that fly in the air, creatures that move in the water, and animals that live on the land. He also created man and woman, who are made in His image. Genesis says everything that has the breath of life belongs to Him.

Second, God appoints His children to be the stewards of what He owns. He gave Adam, Eve, and their descendants the responsibility for taking care of everything He created.

Third, God expects us to be good stewards. In other words, we’re to make use of what He has given and return what is due Him. The Lord shouldn’t be the last to receive. Give to Him first. That’s before paying the bills or spending on personal pleasures.

The Lord will give us material blessings, but He expects us to return to Him a portion of what we’ve received. The tithe was designated as the starting point in giving. Are you returning to God His rightful share?

June 18, 2007

 

He Knows My Name

By Melissa Taylor

 

“He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out.” John 10:3b (NIV)

 

Devotion:

My son Hayden loves football. Sometimes I think it’s his reason for living. He reads, plays, and studies the game. His moods are often affected by how a game turns out, and he looks up to many of the athletes who have played the game well. One such athlete is Derwin Gray. Derwin and his family attended our church for years. He played for the Indianapolis Colts and the Carolina Panthers. He is also a great man of God who has devoted his life to spreading the Good News of Jesus Christ. Hayden has great memories of passing the football with Derwin in the hallways of our church. He also had the pleasure of accompanying him in leading the Miami Dolphins’ chapel service before a game. How it brought joy to my heart to hear Hayden talk about meeting professional football players, especially those who loved God. This man, though he probably doesn’t know it, has had a profound impact on my son’s life. Derwin Gray invested in my son.

 

Hayden collects football cards. Each time I go to Wal-Mart, I pick up a pack, hoping we will get a few new ones and maybe even the prestigious “Peyton Manning” card. Well, it finally happened! After buying many, many packs of cards, Peyton was finally ours! Hayden placed him on the page of honor, the front page of his book. There was still one space left and I asked Hayden who he was saving it for. Derwin Gray, he replied.

 

A few days later, Hayden’s best friend, Hunter came over with his football cards. Hunter had three Derwin Gray cards, so Hayden asked him for one. Being the smart business man he is, Hunter said, “Sure, if I can have your Peyton Manning card.” Hayden gladly handed it over and was thrilled to receive his hero’s card. I, on the other hand, thought, Do you know how much money I spent to find that thing? What are you thinking?

 

Later I asked Hayden why he traded that card we worked so hard to get. Hayden’s answer blew me away. “Mom,” he explained, “Derwin knows me. He knows my name.” It meant a lot to Hayden that someone he lookedup to knew his name. Peyton Manning was special, but he did not know his name.

 

Do you know there is someone incredible who knows your name? He is the Almighty God, Creator of this Universe and Creator of you. He not only knows your name, but the Bible tells us He knows every hair on your head. He also knows every detail of your life. He loves you and wants to spend time with you. God wants to be a part of your life. You don’t even have to make a trade for Him. He’s yours just for the asking. Oddly enough, a Derwin Gray football card could’ve been Hayden’s just for the asking too.

 

This story got back to Derwin. On the day of Hayden’s First Communion, Derwin came to church with something greater than a football card. It was an 8x10 picture of him when he played for the Panthers. He signed it with a personal message and Bible verse for Hayden. He also handed Hayden five of his football cards to give to friends. Even when Hayden is mad at the outcome of a Panthers game and removes all of the Panther stuff from his room in protest, the Derwin Gray picture remains, because, “Mom, he knows my name.”

 

Dear Lord, Wow! You know my name! I praise You for Your unfailing and unconditional love in my life. I am grateful that I do not have to do anything to earn Your love. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

 

Related Resources:

Who Holds the Key to Your Heart by Lysa TerKeurst

 

Building the Christian Family you Never Had by Mary DeMuth

 

Do You Know Him?

 

Application Steps:

Take the time to read Jesus’ very own words in John 10:1-16. Celebrate the fact that Jesus knows your name.

 

Reflections:

Now that you know that Jesus knows your name, who do you say that He is?

 

Do you recognize God’s voice when He is speaking to you?

 

Power Verses:

Matthew, 10:30 , “And even the very hairs on your head are numbered.” (NIV)

 

Luke 9:20 , “’But what about you?’ Jesus asked. ‘Who do you say I am?’” (NIV)

 

Psalm 16:3, “The godly people in the land are my true heroes! I take pleasure in them!” (NLT)

The desire for unity has haunted me all my life through; I have
never been able to substitute any desire for that, or to accept
any of the different schemes for satisfaction of that men have
desired.

-- F. D. Maurice
June 18, 2007


VERSE:
O LORD, I know that the way of man is not in himself: it is not
in man that walketh to direct his steps.
-- Jeremiah 10:23

http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=Jeremiah+10:23&translation=kjv

THOUGHT:
While we may have goals and a sense of mission about our lives,
our lives are not really ours to plan. Every day must be greeted as
a gift from God. Every goal must ultimately be pursued to his
glory. Every true sense of direction is a gift to us from our
Father's Word or his Spirit.

PRAYER:
Wise and loving Father, lead me by your Holy Spirit. Fill me
with your holy wisdom. Guide me into a more complete understanding
of your will for my life. Please give me the wisdom to live each
day with character and holy grace. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.
Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon
the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.

Exodus 20:12, King James Version

Largest Database of Images
For Comments And Profiles at
FreeCommentTags.com

Page:  1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | Next >  Last >>