God's insight to me:
As I read A. B. Simpson's devotional I couldn't agree more. He called Jesus living in our lives a secret power, but not to the Christian He is living in. Christ in me! My life and His as one! I did a program for the God's Love Outreach Ministry at a convent yesterday. One of the Sister's that I was talking with asked me how can I do what I do and so wonderfully. I told her, "Sister you should know!" It is Him in me for sure.
A simple devotional by Max Lucado. So many times in my life I have said, "I can't go on!" But what I have discovered since I gave control to Christ I haven't said that lately. He never gives up!
As I was reading Adrian Roger's devotional it brought back a memory of a friend of mine Don Killingbeck. Every Easter from the time I met him at church he would send me an 8 1/2 x 11 sheet of paper that he printed out with the words "The King is Coming!" At the end of Adrian Roger's devotional he asks the question "What if He came this very hour?" I tell everyone I meet, "My bags are packed"! As the lyrics say in the song "The King Is Coming", "Praise God He's coming for me!" I pray you too.
Charles Stanley's devotional about Paul was wonderfully written. I liked how Dr. Stanley showed the comparison from back then in Biblical times to today. Affliction is as real today as it was back then. Pain is pain. Suffering is suffering, and temptation is temptation. Satan is the same back then as he is today. The wonderful truth is Christ is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow. His Word was left so we know we are joint heirs in His Kingdom. It is written He will never leave us nor forsake us. That is why Paul wrote in Philippians 1:21 For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. Praise God!
From the Marks of Integrity by Charles R. Swindoll devotional as I was reading what he listed I found myself smiling for I see these in me and I believe others do to. Also you can see this in most Christians. I use the word most for we are all in different walks with Christ. How is your walk with Him?
From God's heart, to mine, to yours,
Ed Shagott
*************************************************
Days of Heaven Upon Earth a devotional by A. B. Simpson
May 17
"To him that overcometh, will I give" (Rev. ii. 17).
A precious secret of Christian life is to have Jesus dwelling within the heart and conquering things that we never could overcome. It is the only secret of power in your life and mine, beloved.
Men cannot understand it, nor will the world believe it; but it is true, that God will come to dwell within us, and be the power, and the purity, and the victory, and the joy of our life.
It is no longer now, "What is the best that I can do?" but the question is, "What is the best that Christ can do?" It enables us to say, with Paul, in that beautiful passage in Philippians, "I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound, everywhere and in all things, I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ, which strengtheneth me."
With this knowledge I go forth to meet my testings, and the secret stands me good. It keeps me pure and sweet, as I could never keep myself. Christ has met the adversary and defeated him for me. Thanks be unto God who giveth us the victory through Jesus Christ.
*************************************************
God Never Gives Up
By Max Lucado
“He delights in mercy. He will again have compassion on us.” Micah 7:18-19, NKJV
When Joseph was dropped into a pit by his own brothers, God didn’t give up.
When Moses said, “Here I am, send Aaron,” God didn’t give up . . .
When Peter worshiped Him at the supper and cursed Him at the fire, He didn’t give up.
God never gives up.
*************************************************
MAY 17
The Greatest Event of All Ages by Adrian Rogers
". . . and the Lamb shall overcome them: for He is Lord of lords, and King of kings: and they that are with Him are called, and chosen, and faithful." Revelation 17:14
The Second Coming of Jesus is going to be the greatest event of all of the ages. It is one of the grand theological truths taught in the Bible from Genesis to Revelation.
· The New Birth is vitally important, but it is mentioned only nine times in the New Testament.
· Baptism is vitally important, but it is mentioned only 20 times in the New Testament.
· Repentance is mentioned only 70 times in the Bible, as important and needful as that is.
· But the return of the Lord Jesus Christ is mentioned in God's Word at least 380 times.
One out of every 25 verses points with an eager finger to the Second Coming of the Lord Jesus Christ.
How are you getting ready for His Second Coming? What if He came this very hour?
*************************************************
May 17
The Affliction of Paul by Charles Stanley
2 Corinthians 1:8-11
It's easy to assume that problems in biblical days looked totally different from those facing us today. So you might wonder what a first-century missionary can teach us about triumphing over adversity.
Though Paul's culture was quite different from ours, some things remain the same—like temptation, hardship, persecution, and sin. Satan never changes either. Therefore, when the apostle wrote of being burdened beyond his strength, he had experience to back up his words.
Paul "despaired of life," but he trusted in a God who raises the dead. In other words, he believed the Lord would sustain him during that season of conflict. How could he be certain? Paul learned to trust the Lord during affliction in the same way that we d he was thrown into high-pressure situations with impossible odds and yet saw God triumph. We understand divine power when we reach the limits of our own strength and feel God's supernatural energy kick in.
Divine strength is more than adequate to overcome worldly hardships, satanic temptations, and consequences of sin. That isn't to say believers can avoid all sorrow and pain. Rather, we have the promise that God will meet our needs in every heartache and trial (Phil. 4:19). Our faith grows stronger when we trust Him in times of affliction.
God's strength is available to all believers who confess their weakness and inadequacy. Sometimes a troubled soul has only enough stamina left to admit, "Father, I absolutely cannot. If You don't, it is simply not going to happen." In effect, we throw ourselves upon God and wait for Him to keep His promise.
*************************************************
Marks of Integrity by Charles R. Swindoll
1 Corinthians 11:28, 31
Thanks to the Word of God, we can list several marks of integrity that God would have us appropriate into our lives. Do you have these marks of integrity?
•An excellent attitude
•Faithfulness and diligence at work
•Personal purity of the highest caliber
•Consistency in your walk with God
You have the scalpel in your hand. Self-examination is up to you. It is not only a good idea, it's a biblical imperative.
A reminder: Only you can do the surgery on your soul, only you. No one else can know the truth. You can cover up, twist the facts in your mind, rationalize, and ignore . . . and no one will know the difference—no one except you. But if you really want to strengthen your grip on integrity, you will come to terms with the whole truth, regardless of the consequences.
Read the Book of Daniel to see the biblical picture of integrity. Daniel refused to compromise and consequently was thrown into the lions' den. Look what God did. He honored Daniel's faithfulness. He'll do the same for you.
Sometimes when you exhibit real, unvarnished integrity, you get dumped into the lions' den. Remember, God's there, too!
*************************************************
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Friday, May 14, 2010
My Journey - 5/13 - 5/16/2010
God's insight to me:
As Adrian Rogers wrote about meekness I realize that is definitely a characteristic of mine. Yielded me? Yep, to Christ! See, I was broken by this world engulfed by sin. I found that as I lived each day the worldly burden became greater and greater to bear. Praise God I surrendered my life to Jesus! Now I have through Him, "strength under control"!
In the Streams in the Desert devotional A. B. Simpson writes about God knowing us. I once heard a song by the Gaither's about God looking for a few good men/women. Dependable, faithful, willing to bear the trials of life in the name of His Son Jesus. Are you one of them that is ready for God's calling? I am!
As I was reading Charles Stanley's devotional another Gaither song came to mind, "Just a Sinner Saved By Grace". Once we accept Christ into our hearts God's saving Grace begins to transform us. I am a living testimony to that. Do I still sin today? Sure, for this is a sinful world we live in. But it is becoming less, and less frequent as I now focus on Jesus. The sin that was pleasing to me is no longer controlling me. God has forgiven me of all past, present and future sin. Thank You, Jesus.
Rick Warren's devotional also speaks about surrendering to God. Mr. Warren quoted Mark 8:35 (LB) where God's Word states "Only those who throw away their lives for my sake and for the sake of the Good News will ever know what it means to really live". I agree with that Bible verse whole heartily. My life is so much more enriched, fulfilled and meaningful now than ever before.
Gloria Copeland's devotional speaks about one of the most devastating priorities in our earthly lives. The love of money can ruin a family, break up friendship and worst of all separate you from God. I once read about a man who won several million dollars in a lottery. He was poor to start then became rich beyond his dreams. But what he said was, "I curse the day I won all that money!" He found that family, friends and people he never knew wanted his money, not him just his money. He was happier being poor. I remember one time when I was singing with a business men's group at City Mission, one gentleman who was there to get a meal and a place to sleep was constantly praising Jesus. My friends he is a rich person for knowing Christ, He will fulfill all our needs.
A. B. Simpson's devotional speaks of God's storehouse for us. From my own personal experience I can only say, "People do not realize how blessed I am". Each day through my devotion and love for Him, I am blessed beyond words that I can express.
Praise to God for loving me before I ever loved Him.
In the last devotional by Charles Stanley he writes about "The Attitude of a Saint". As I was reading this devotional I looked up and said, "Thank You Lord". I can see a lot of these attitudes in myself. Am I bragging about this? No. It is a fact of my life now. It is all about Christ! My yielding to Him. My desire to be like Him. My life now as He lives in and through me. As I was sitting in church yesterday, the Lord blessed me with this poem. I was thinking of so many people that still play church on Sunday then proceed through the next six days not letting Him be a part of their lives.
Six Days A Week
Six days a week
to try and get through.
Sunday to Sunday
what will we do?
We heard the Pastor's message
that from his heart he did speak.
Then Monday came
and we began to feel weak.
Tuesday and Wednesday,
more trouble came our way.
What can we do
to get through these days?
Thursday and Friday,
then Saturday came.
We looked above
and praised Jesus name.
Then we felt His presense,
and heard Him say,
"Why worry children of Mine,
I'm with you always, not just Sunday!"
E. P. Shagott
5/16/2010
From God's heart, to mine, to yours,
Ed Shagott
*************************************************
MAY 13
What Is Meekness? by Adrian Rogers
"Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth Matthew 5:5."
What does it mean to be meek? First, let me tell you what it is not before I tell you what it is.
Meekness is not weakness. The word "meek" means yielded. It literally has the idea of strength under control. When an animal, especially a horse, is domesticated, it is trained so that a rider can sit on its back or so it can pull a plow. The proper term for this process is that the animal has been "meeked." It has been broken. Now it yields to the rider or to the yoke. Now the animal exhibits strength under control. That's what meekness is.
Read Matthew 11:29 and 21:5. What does Jesus say about Himself, and how can you emulate Him?
*************************************************
He Knows Us a Streams in the Desert Devotional
May 14
"I know him, that he will command his children" (Gen. 18:19).
God wants people that He can depend upon. He could say of Abraham, "I know him, that he will command his children . . . that the Lord may bring upon Abraham that which he hath spoken." God can be depended upon; He wants us to be just as decided, as reliable, as stable. This is just what faith means.
God is looking for men on whom He can put the weight of all His love and power and faithful promises. God's engines are strong enough to draw any weight we attach to them. Unfortunately the cable which we fasten to the engine is often too weak to hold the weight of our prayer; therefore God is drilling us, disciplining us to stability and certainty in the life of faith. Let us learn our lessons and stand fast. --A. B. Simpson
God knows that you can stand that trial; He would not give it to you if you could not. It is His trust in you that explains the trials of life, however bitter they may be. God knows our strength, and He measures it to the last inch; and a trial was never given to any man that was greater than that man's strength, through God, to bear it.
*************************************************
May 14
The Transforming Grace of God by Charles Stanley
Romans 8:28-30
God has predestined every believer to be conformed to the likeness of His Son Jesus Christ. The process begins at salvation and continues until we join Him in heaven. The apostle Paul is a good example of the Lord's power to transform an unrighteous man into an image-bearer of Jesus.
God changed a sinner into a saint. Paul was deeply religious before his conversion, but he relied on good works and a pious nature to gain divine acceptance. When he met the Lord on the road to Damascus, the future apostle learned that all of his religious zeal meant nothing. The only way for people to be acceptable before God is to receive the saving grace of Christ—He replaces our sin nature with a righteous spirit.
And even though saints will sometimes falter and make mistakes, our heavenly Father remains patient and loving toward His children. He uses our failures to teach us more about Himself and His ways.
God changed a servant of sin into a servant of the Lord (Rom. 6:16). Paul was welcomed into the kingdom in spite of his hostility toward the church. He'd promoted blasphemy, punished believers, and cast his vote against those being put to death (Acts 26:10-11). The lesson here is that no one can sin beyond the Lord's capacity to forgive.
The Father shapes and chisels His children until they mirror His Son. He turned one of the early church's enemies into a wise and repentant leader. Commit to obey the Lord, and see what He will do in your life. He is faithful to complete the good work He has begun in you (Phil. 1:6).
*************************************************
The Blessing of Surrender
May 14th, 2010 by Rick Warren
“Quit quarreling with God! Agree with him and you will have peace at last! His favor will surround you if you will only admit that you were wrong.” Job 22:21 (LB)
The Bible is very clear about how we benefit when we worship God through surrender: "Agree with him and you will have peace at last! His favor will surround you if you will only admit that you were wrong" Job 22:21 (LB).
In surrender, you begin to really live the life God intended: "Only those who throw away their lives for my sake and for the sake of the Good News will ever know what it means to really live" Mark 8:35 (LB).
You are set free, liberated from self-preoccupation: "But offer yourselves to the ways of God and the freedom never quits. All your lives you've let sin tell you what to do. But thank God you've started listening to a new master, one whose commands set you free to live openly in his freedom!" Romans 6:16-18 (MSG).
God is able to use you in great ways.
Why did God choose Mary, of all women, to be the mother of Jesus? It was because she was totally surrendered to God. When the angel explained God's improbable plan, she humbly responded, "I am the Lord's servant! Let it happen as you have said" Luke 1:38 (CEV).
Nothing is more powerful than a surrendered life in the hands of God.
*************************************************
May 14, 2010
Priorities of Prosperity by Gloria Copeland
No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.
– Matthew 6:24
God isn't against your having money. He's against money having you. He's against your making it your priority and putting your trust in it instead of in Him.
Why? Because He knows money makes a lousy god. Its power is limited. It will only buy so much. It will only go so far.
If you need healing from an incurable disease, money won't help you at all. If your family is falling apart, money won't mend it. But if you'll seek God first, His prosperity will reach into every area of your life.
God is so generous that He desires you to have the best on this earth, just as you desire the best for your children. His plan is for you to have all of your needs met according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Get in on that plan by keeping your priorities straight. Seek Him first and His righteousness.
Make pleasing God your number one priority. Set your eyes on Him above all else and all these things will be added unto you.
Scripture Reading: Mark 10:17-27
*************************************************
A devotional by A. B. Simpson
"I press toward the mark" (Phil. iii. 14).
We have thought much about what we have received. Let us think of the things we have not received, of some of the vessels that have not yet been filled, of some of the places in our life that the Holy Ghost has not yet possessed for God, and signalized by His glory and His presence.
Shall the coming months be marked by a diligent, heart-searching application of "the rest of the oil," to the yet unoccupied possibilities of our life and service?
Have we known His fulness of grace in our spiritual life? Have we tasted a little of His glory? Have we believed His promise for the mind, the soul, the spirit? Have we known all His possibilities for the body? Have we tested Him in His power to control the events of providence, and to move the hearts of men and nations? Has He opened to us the treasure-house of God, and met our financial needs as He might? Have we even begun to understand the ministry of prayer, as God would have us exercise it? God give us "the rest of the oil"!
*************************************************
May 15-16
The Attitude of a Saint by Dr. Charles Stanley
1 Corinthians 15:9-11
The apostle Paul had a certain mindset that Christians are wise to emulate (1 Cor. 11:1). His attitude included:
1. Humility. Pride cannot hide in the heart of a believer who understands divine mercy. Paul spread the gospel because he believed that the grace which was sufficient to save a sinner like him was adequate for anyone.
2. A sense of obligation. The apostle never lost sight of how far God's grace had brought him. He frequently reminded followers of his role in persecuting the church (1 Tim. 1:13). Paul's gratitude for salvation from that former life never waned. The book of Acts records the almost constant turmoil and heartache of his travels, and yet he kept praising the Lord for the privilege of serving.
3. A sense of dependence. To describe the source of his strength, Paul used these words: "By the grace of God I am what I am" (1 Cor. 15:10). He knew what it was like to depend upon one's own goodness and work to be religious— and he wanted no part of it. Paul desired more of Jesus and none of himself (Phil 3:8).
4. A spirit of absolute confidence. At the end of his life, Paul was as certain as ever that God was real, in charge, and worthy of all honor, glory, and praise (2 Tim. 4:6-8).
Do you see these attitudes in yourself? If not, borrow a page from the apostle Paul's "playbook." Praise the Lord for all that He has done for you, and then get busy working for His kingdom. Do not allow His grace to be poured out on your life in vain (1 Cor. 15:10).
As Adrian Rogers wrote about meekness I realize that is definitely a characteristic of mine. Yielded me? Yep, to Christ! See, I was broken by this world engulfed by sin. I found that as I lived each day the worldly burden became greater and greater to bear. Praise God I surrendered my life to Jesus! Now I have through Him, "strength under control"!
In the Streams in the Desert devotional A. B. Simpson writes about God knowing us. I once heard a song by the Gaither's about God looking for a few good men/women. Dependable, faithful, willing to bear the trials of life in the name of His Son Jesus. Are you one of them that is ready for God's calling? I am!
As I was reading Charles Stanley's devotional another Gaither song came to mind, "Just a Sinner Saved By Grace". Once we accept Christ into our hearts God's saving Grace begins to transform us. I am a living testimony to that. Do I still sin today? Sure, for this is a sinful world we live in. But it is becoming less, and less frequent as I now focus on Jesus. The sin that was pleasing to me is no longer controlling me. God has forgiven me of all past, present and future sin. Thank You, Jesus.
Rick Warren's devotional also speaks about surrendering to God. Mr. Warren quoted Mark 8:35 (LB) where God's Word states "Only those who throw away their lives for my sake and for the sake of the Good News will ever know what it means to really live". I agree with that Bible verse whole heartily. My life is so much more enriched, fulfilled and meaningful now than ever before.
Gloria Copeland's devotional speaks about one of the most devastating priorities in our earthly lives. The love of money can ruin a family, break up friendship and worst of all separate you from God. I once read about a man who won several million dollars in a lottery. He was poor to start then became rich beyond his dreams. But what he said was, "I curse the day I won all that money!" He found that family, friends and people he never knew wanted his money, not him just his money. He was happier being poor. I remember one time when I was singing with a business men's group at City Mission, one gentleman who was there to get a meal and a place to sleep was constantly praising Jesus. My friends he is a rich person for knowing Christ, He will fulfill all our needs.
A. B. Simpson's devotional speaks of God's storehouse for us. From my own personal experience I can only say, "People do not realize how blessed I am". Each day through my devotion and love for Him, I am blessed beyond words that I can express.
Praise to God for loving me before I ever loved Him.
In the last devotional by Charles Stanley he writes about "The Attitude of a Saint". As I was reading this devotional I looked up and said, "Thank You Lord". I can see a lot of these attitudes in myself. Am I bragging about this? No. It is a fact of my life now. It is all about Christ! My yielding to Him. My desire to be like Him. My life now as He lives in and through me. As I was sitting in church yesterday, the Lord blessed me with this poem. I was thinking of so many people that still play church on Sunday then proceed through the next six days not letting Him be a part of their lives.
Six Days A Week
Six days a week
to try and get through.
Sunday to Sunday
what will we do?
We heard the Pastor's message
that from his heart he did speak.
Then Monday came
and we began to feel weak.
Tuesday and Wednesday,
more trouble came our way.
What can we do
to get through these days?
Thursday and Friday,
then Saturday came.
We looked above
and praised Jesus name.
Then we felt His presense,
and heard Him say,
"Why worry children of Mine,
I'm with you always, not just Sunday!"
E. P. Shagott
5/16/2010
From God's heart, to mine, to yours,
Ed Shagott
*************************************************
MAY 13
What Is Meekness? by Adrian Rogers
"Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth Matthew 5:5."
What does it mean to be meek? First, let me tell you what it is not before I tell you what it is.
Meekness is not weakness. The word "meek" means yielded. It literally has the idea of strength under control. When an animal, especially a horse, is domesticated, it is trained so that a rider can sit on its back or so it can pull a plow. The proper term for this process is that the animal has been "meeked." It has been broken. Now it yields to the rider or to the yoke. Now the animal exhibits strength under control. That's what meekness is.
Read Matthew 11:29 and 21:5. What does Jesus say about Himself, and how can you emulate Him?
*************************************************
He Knows Us a Streams in the Desert Devotional
May 14
"I know him, that he will command his children" (Gen. 18:19).
God wants people that He can depend upon. He could say of Abraham, "I know him, that he will command his children . . . that the Lord may bring upon Abraham that which he hath spoken." God can be depended upon; He wants us to be just as decided, as reliable, as stable. This is just what faith means.
God is looking for men on whom He can put the weight of all His love and power and faithful promises. God's engines are strong enough to draw any weight we attach to them. Unfortunately the cable which we fasten to the engine is often too weak to hold the weight of our prayer; therefore God is drilling us, disciplining us to stability and certainty in the life of faith. Let us learn our lessons and stand fast. --A. B. Simpson
God knows that you can stand that trial; He would not give it to you if you could not. It is His trust in you that explains the trials of life, however bitter they may be. God knows our strength, and He measures it to the last inch; and a trial was never given to any man that was greater than that man's strength, through God, to bear it.
*************************************************
May 14
The Transforming Grace of God by Charles Stanley
Romans 8:28-30
God has predestined every believer to be conformed to the likeness of His Son Jesus Christ. The process begins at salvation and continues until we join Him in heaven. The apostle Paul is a good example of the Lord's power to transform an unrighteous man into an image-bearer of Jesus.
God changed a sinner into a saint. Paul was deeply religious before his conversion, but he relied on good works and a pious nature to gain divine acceptance. When he met the Lord on the road to Damascus, the future apostle learned that all of his religious zeal meant nothing. The only way for people to be acceptable before God is to receive the saving grace of Christ—He replaces our sin nature with a righteous spirit.
And even though saints will sometimes falter and make mistakes, our heavenly Father remains patient and loving toward His children. He uses our failures to teach us more about Himself and His ways.
God changed a servant of sin into a servant of the Lord (Rom. 6:16). Paul was welcomed into the kingdom in spite of his hostility toward the church. He'd promoted blasphemy, punished believers, and cast his vote against those being put to death (Acts 26:10-11). The lesson here is that no one can sin beyond the Lord's capacity to forgive.
The Father shapes and chisels His children until they mirror His Son. He turned one of the early church's enemies into a wise and repentant leader. Commit to obey the Lord, and see what He will do in your life. He is faithful to complete the good work He has begun in you (Phil. 1:6).
*************************************************
The Blessing of Surrender
May 14th, 2010 by Rick Warren
“Quit quarreling with God! Agree with him and you will have peace at last! His favor will surround you if you will only admit that you were wrong.” Job 22:21 (LB)
The Bible is very clear about how we benefit when we worship God through surrender: "Agree with him and you will have peace at last! His favor will surround you if you will only admit that you were wrong" Job 22:21 (LB).
In surrender, you begin to really live the life God intended: "Only those who throw away their lives for my sake and for the sake of the Good News will ever know what it means to really live" Mark 8:35 (LB).
You are set free, liberated from self-preoccupation: "But offer yourselves to the ways of God and the freedom never quits. All your lives you've let sin tell you what to do. But thank God you've started listening to a new master, one whose commands set you free to live openly in his freedom!" Romans 6:16-18 (MSG).
God is able to use you in great ways.
Why did God choose Mary, of all women, to be the mother of Jesus? It was because she was totally surrendered to God. When the angel explained God's improbable plan, she humbly responded, "I am the Lord's servant! Let it happen as you have said" Luke 1:38 (CEV).
Nothing is more powerful than a surrendered life in the hands of God.
*************************************************
May 14, 2010
Priorities of Prosperity by Gloria Copeland
No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.
– Matthew 6:24
God isn't against your having money. He's against money having you. He's against your making it your priority and putting your trust in it instead of in Him.
Why? Because He knows money makes a lousy god. Its power is limited. It will only buy so much. It will only go so far.
If you need healing from an incurable disease, money won't help you at all. If your family is falling apart, money won't mend it. But if you'll seek God first, His prosperity will reach into every area of your life.
God is so generous that He desires you to have the best on this earth, just as you desire the best for your children. His plan is for you to have all of your needs met according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Get in on that plan by keeping your priorities straight. Seek Him first and His righteousness.
Make pleasing God your number one priority. Set your eyes on Him above all else and all these things will be added unto you.
Scripture Reading: Mark 10:17-27
*************************************************
A devotional by A. B. Simpson
"I press toward the mark" (Phil. iii. 14).
We have thought much about what we have received. Let us think of the things we have not received, of some of the vessels that have not yet been filled, of some of the places in our life that the Holy Ghost has not yet possessed for God, and signalized by His glory and His presence.
Shall the coming months be marked by a diligent, heart-searching application of "the rest of the oil," to the yet unoccupied possibilities of our life and service?
Have we known His fulness of grace in our spiritual life? Have we tasted a little of His glory? Have we believed His promise for the mind, the soul, the spirit? Have we known all His possibilities for the body? Have we tested Him in His power to control the events of providence, and to move the hearts of men and nations? Has He opened to us the treasure-house of God, and met our financial needs as He might? Have we even begun to understand the ministry of prayer, as God would have us exercise it? God give us "the rest of the oil"!
*************************************************
May 15-16
The Attitude of a Saint by Dr. Charles Stanley
1 Corinthians 15:9-11
The apostle Paul had a certain mindset that Christians are wise to emulate (1 Cor. 11:1). His attitude included:
1. Humility. Pride cannot hide in the heart of a believer who understands divine mercy. Paul spread the gospel because he believed that the grace which was sufficient to save a sinner like him was adequate for anyone.
2. A sense of obligation. The apostle never lost sight of how far God's grace had brought him. He frequently reminded followers of his role in persecuting the church (1 Tim. 1:13). Paul's gratitude for salvation from that former life never waned. The book of Acts records the almost constant turmoil and heartache of his travels, and yet he kept praising the Lord for the privilege of serving.
3. A sense of dependence. To describe the source of his strength, Paul used these words: "By the grace of God I am what I am" (1 Cor. 15:10). He knew what it was like to depend upon one's own goodness and work to be religious— and he wanted no part of it. Paul desired more of Jesus and none of himself (Phil 3:8).
4. A spirit of absolute confidence. At the end of his life, Paul was as certain as ever that God was real, in charge, and worthy of all honor, glory, and praise (2 Tim. 4:6-8).
Do you see these attitudes in yourself? If not, borrow a page from the apostle Paul's "playbook." Praise the Lord for all that He has done for you, and then get busy working for His kingdom. Do not allow His grace to be poured out on your life in vain (1 Cor. 15:10).
Thursday, May 13, 2010
My Journey - 5/12/2010
God's insight to me:
Max Lucado's devotional spoke to me about all of God's children in the background, doing His work, His deeds through love. Those deeds that don't get noticed by many but stand out in God's sight. All the people that work in a Food Ministry, or care for the maintenance of His church, or just helping when asked. All as important as the minister standing in the pulpit preaching the message that the Holy Spirit put on his heart.
Adrian Rogers devotional speaks of being poor in Spirit. I can truly relate to that for I cried out for God's Spirit in my life and what a change it made in me. My spiritual gas tank was below empty. I had nothing left to run my life on. At that moment I could almost hear all of Heaven say, "He is ready now!"
Sylvia Gunter's devotional truly inspired me as I was reading it. So many times in my life, my family lives, my friends lives and all those around me that experience life's battles day after day need to read this. The God's Love Outreach Ministry ministers to so many senior individuals that their lives have been drastically changed either physically or mentally, battle after battle. I tell them time and time again, "If God be for us, who can be against us?" In my own life just knowing that makes the battle easier to fight. Do the battles disappear? No, sometimes it seems they may increase. But the victory is ours! It is written! Praise be to God! He is my Shepherd and because of that I have no wants.
How awesome God is for that leads into the last devotional by F. B. Meyers. How uplifting this devotional is. As I was reading it songs of praise entered my mind. Songs like, "He Is My All In All", "I Surrender All", and "To God Be The Glory." F. B. Meyers breaks our day down by following our Good Shepherd. This might be a devotional you might want to print out and keep handy as your life's battles come your way.
From God's heart, to mine, to yours,
Ed Shagott
*************************************************
The Power of the Good News By Max Lucado
“Do the work of telling the Good News.” 2 Timothy 4:5
For every hero in the spotlight, there are dozens in the shadows. They don’t get press. They don’t draw crowds. They don’t even write books! . . .
Behind a rock slide is a pebble. And a revival can begin with one sermon . . .
Tomorrow’s Spurgeon might be mowing your lawn. And the hero who inspires him might be nearer than you think. He might be in your mirror.
*************************************************
Poor in Spirit - What Does It Mean? by Adrian Rogers
"Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." Matthew 5:3
What does it mean to be "poor in spirit"? Jesus is talking about being a beggar. He is saying, "Blessed are the beggars." He's not talking about finances here. He's talking about a person being poor spiritually.
Before a person can enter into the kingdom of heaven, he must first admit that no matter how much he may have in the material realm or psychological realm, he is absolutely and totally bankrupt spiritually and a beggar before God. If he doesn't see that, he will never, ever get into the kingdom of heaven.
I've often said that I am just one beggar showing another beggar where to find food. Do you see yourself as a beggar in need of the Bread of Heaven?
*************************************************
The Battle is the Lord’s by Sylvia Gunter
Our enemies are God's enemies, and He is an active and aggressive Mighty Warrior against them. We face an enemy that has already lost the war but won't concede without a fierce fight. Many of the Psalms could appropriately be called "Battle Psalms." It was not by accident that the most excellent worshiper in the Bible was also the most successful warrior. David focused on praise in one of the great spiritual warfare passages in the Scriptures.
"Praise be to the LORD my Rock,
Who trains my hands for war, my fingers for battle.
He is my loving God and my fortress,
My stronghold and my deliverer, my shield, in whom I take refuge,
Who subdues peoples under me." Psalm 144:1-2
Throughout His history of dealing with His people, God asserted that the battle is the Lord's. Moses told the people, "Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the LORD will bring you today. The Egyptians you see today you will never see again. The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still" (Exodus 14:13-14).
David gave God all the credit for His defense. "With your hand you drove out the nations and planted our fathers; you crushed the peoples and made our fathers flourish" (Psalm 44:1-2). Generations later, God was still reassuring His faithless people, "Yet I will show love to the house of Judah; and I will save them, not by bow, sword or battle, or by horses and horsemen, but by the LORD their God" (Hosea 1:7). In all ages, the purpose of battle is always to exalt the Lord and to cause us to draw near to Him, to see His glory, to praise Him for His victory. In fact, the psalmist prayed for God not to take away all his enemies, lest the people forget their God (Psalm 59:11).
O that we would not be faint-hearted when God has provided Himself as our El Gibbor, the mighty God; the Lord strong and mighty, the Lord mighty in battle; El Shaddai, almighty God; the Lord our defense; the Lord our deliverer; Jehovah Sabaoth, the Captain of the Lord's heavenly armies. Isaiah said, "They shall see the glory of the Lord, the excellency of our God. Strengthen the weak hands, and make firm the feeble knees. Say to those who are fearful-hearted, 'Be strong, do not fear! Behold, your God will come with vengeance, with the recompense of God; He will come and save you' "(Isaiah 35:2-4 NKJV).
Take God's Word to heart for your defense and victory as a vital part of the whole armor of God. It is the sword of the Spirit that is ever-ready in the mighty hand of God.
*************************************************
A PSALM OF LIFE by F. B. Meyer
"The Lord is my Shepherd; I shall not want. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life."-- Psa_23:1-6.
THIS IS "the Nightingale" among the Psalmist choristers! The first that we learn in infancy, the last we whisper with dying lips. It implies consecration, for God is this only to the soul which is wholly surrendered to Him. You cannot have all of God, or God in all, until you are willing to surrender your all. Do you want to put "My," the pronoun of possession, before the Name of God? Well, then, you must be willing to answer His voice, and follow where He leads. "My sheep hear My voice, and they follow Me, but a stranger will they not follow."
Morning! The Shepherd's leading. When He puts forth His sheep from the fold, in the dewy morning, He goes before them over the grass or up the mountain-track towards the pastures. It would never do for the flock to precede him. Whatever roughness you find on your path, remember that the Shepherd has gone before. "He leadeth me." Remember also that His name and character are involved in bringing you through "for His Name's sake."
Noon: The alleviations of rest. In all lives there are times when He makes us to lie down, or leads us by the waters of rest. Sometimes it is a period of convalescence after an illness. Sometimes a holiday, an interval between the pressure of engagements, a respite when the stress and strain of toil is over--these are our quiet pasture-lands. At other times, in the midst of life's rush and turmoil, our soul is kept at rest in God's peace. The heart rests for part of a second between its beats. "He maketh me to lie down!"
Night: the oil and the cup. The flock has reached the fold where it is to shelter. At the doorway stands the Shepherd, watching each one as it passes. This one has grazed and torn its head in getting through a hedge, and for it there is the anointing oil. Near His hand is the food and water, from which He fills the bowl, to wash the face, or give refreshment; and as it overflows, there is evidently enough and to spare!
Goodness and Mercy follow the flock, as the Shepherd precedes. "The House of the Lord" is the Fold from which we shall go out no more, and the Lamb shall be our Shepherd and abiding joy for ever.
PRAYER
O Lord, support us all the day long of this troublous life until the shadows lengthen and the evening comes, the busy work is hushed and the fever of life over and our work is done; then, Lord, in Thy mercy grant us safe lodging, a holy rest and peace at the last, through Jesus Christ our Lord. AMEN.
*************************************************
Max Lucado's devotional spoke to me about all of God's children in the background, doing His work, His deeds through love. Those deeds that don't get noticed by many but stand out in God's sight. All the people that work in a Food Ministry, or care for the maintenance of His church, or just helping when asked. All as important as the minister standing in the pulpit preaching the message that the Holy Spirit put on his heart.
Adrian Rogers devotional speaks of being poor in Spirit. I can truly relate to that for I cried out for God's Spirit in my life and what a change it made in me. My spiritual gas tank was below empty. I had nothing left to run my life on. At that moment I could almost hear all of Heaven say, "He is ready now!"
Sylvia Gunter's devotional truly inspired me as I was reading it. So many times in my life, my family lives, my friends lives and all those around me that experience life's battles day after day need to read this. The God's Love Outreach Ministry ministers to so many senior individuals that their lives have been drastically changed either physically or mentally, battle after battle. I tell them time and time again, "If God be for us, who can be against us?" In my own life just knowing that makes the battle easier to fight. Do the battles disappear? No, sometimes it seems they may increase. But the victory is ours! It is written! Praise be to God! He is my Shepherd and because of that I have no wants.
How awesome God is for that leads into the last devotional by F. B. Meyers. How uplifting this devotional is. As I was reading it songs of praise entered my mind. Songs like, "He Is My All In All", "I Surrender All", and "To God Be The Glory." F. B. Meyers breaks our day down by following our Good Shepherd. This might be a devotional you might want to print out and keep handy as your life's battles come your way.
From God's heart, to mine, to yours,
Ed Shagott
*************************************************
The Power of the Good News By Max Lucado
“Do the work of telling the Good News.” 2 Timothy 4:5
For every hero in the spotlight, there are dozens in the shadows. They don’t get press. They don’t draw crowds. They don’t even write books! . . .
Behind a rock slide is a pebble. And a revival can begin with one sermon . . .
Tomorrow’s Spurgeon might be mowing your lawn. And the hero who inspires him might be nearer than you think. He might be in your mirror.
*************************************************
Poor in Spirit - What Does It Mean? by Adrian Rogers
"Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." Matthew 5:3
What does it mean to be "poor in spirit"? Jesus is talking about being a beggar. He is saying, "Blessed are the beggars." He's not talking about finances here. He's talking about a person being poor spiritually.
Before a person can enter into the kingdom of heaven, he must first admit that no matter how much he may have in the material realm or psychological realm, he is absolutely and totally bankrupt spiritually and a beggar before God. If he doesn't see that, he will never, ever get into the kingdom of heaven.
I've often said that I am just one beggar showing another beggar where to find food. Do you see yourself as a beggar in need of the Bread of Heaven?
*************************************************
The Battle is the Lord’s by Sylvia Gunter
Our enemies are God's enemies, and He is an active and aggressive Mighty Warrior against them. We face an enemy that has already lost the war but won't concede without a fierce fight. Many of the Psalms could appropriately be called "Battle Psalms." It was not by accident that the most excellent worshiper in the Bible was also the most successful warrior. David focused on praise in one of the great spiritual warfare passages in the Scriptures.
"Praise be to the LORD my Rock,
Who trains my hands for war, my fingers for battle.
He is my loving God and my fortress,
My stronghold and my deliverer, my shield, in whom I take refuge,
Who subdues peoples under me." Psalm 144:1-2
Throughout His history of dealing with His people, God asserted that the battle is the Lord's. Moses told the people, "Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the LORD will bring you today. The Egyptians you see today you will never see again. The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still" (Exodus 14:13-14).
David gave God all the credit for His defense. "With your hand you drove out the nations and planted our fathers; you crushed the peoples and made our fathers flourish" (Psalm 44:1-2). Generations later, God was still reassuring His faithless people, "Yet I will show love to the house of Judah; and I will save them, not by bow, sword or battle, or by horses and horsemen, but by the LORD their God" (Hosea 1:7). In all ages, the purpose of battle is always to exalt the Lord and to cause us to draw near to Him, to see His glory, to praise Him for His victory. In fact, the psalmist prayed for God not to take away all his enemies, lest the people forget their God (Psalm 59:11).
O that we would not be faint-hearted when God has provided Himself as our El Gibbor, the mighty God; the Lord strong and mighty, the Lord mighty in battle; El Shaddai, almighty God; the Lord our defense; the Lord our deliverer; Jehovah Sabaoth, the Captain of the Lord's heavenly armies. Isaiah said, "They shall see the glory of the Lord, the excellency of our God. Strengthen the weak hands, and make firm the feeble knees. Say to those who are fearful-hearted, 'Be strong, do not fear! Behold, your God will come with vengeance, with the recompense of God; He will come and save you' "(Isaiah 35:2-4 NKJV).
Take God's Word to heart for your defense and victory as a vital part of the whole armor of God. It is the sword of the Spirit that is ever-ready in the mighty hand of God.
*************************************************
A PSALM OF LIFE by F. B. Meyer
"The Lord is my Shepherd; I shall not want. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life."-- Psa_23:1-6.
THIS IS "the Nightingale" among the Psalmist choristers! The first that we learn in infancy, the last we whisper with dying lips. It implies consecration, for God is this only to the soul which is wholly surrendered to Him. You cannot have all of God, or God in all, until you are willing to surrender your all. Do you want to put "My," the pronoun of possession, before the Name of God? Well, then, you must be willing to answer His voice, and follow where He leads. "My sheep hear My voice, and they follow Me, but a stranger will they not follow."
Morning! The Shepherd's leading. When He puts forth His sheep from the fold, in the dewy morning, He goes before them over the grass or up the mountain-track towards the pastures. It would never do for the flock to precede him. Whatever roughness you find on your path, remember that the Shepherd has gone before. "He leadeth me." Remember also that His name and character are involved in bringing you through "for His Name's sake."
Noon: The alleviations of rest. In all lives there are times when He makes us to lie down, or leads us by the waters of rest. Sometimes it is a period of convalescence after an illness. Sometimes a holiday, an interval between the pressure of engagements, a respite when the stress and strain of toil is over--these are our quiet pasture-lands. At other times, in the midst of life's rush and turmoil, our soul is kept at rest in God's peace. The heart rests for part of a second between its beats. "He maketh me to lie down!"
Night: the oil and the cup. The flock has reached the fold where it is to shelter. At the doorway stands the Shepherd, watching each one as it passes. This one has grazed and torn its head in getting through a hedge, and for it there is the anointing oil. Near His hand is the food and water, from which He fills the bowl, to wash the face, or give refreshment; and as it overflows, there is evidently enough and to spare!
Goodness and Mercy follow the flock, as the Shepherd precedes. "The House of the Lord" is the Fold from which we shall go out no more, and the Lamb shall be our Shepherd and abiding joy for ever.
PRAYER
O Lord, support us all the day long of this troublous life until the shadows lengthen and the evening comes, the busy work is hushed and the fever of life over and our work is done; then, Lord, in Thy mercy grant us safe lodging, a holy rest and peace at the last, through Jesus Christ our Lord. AMEN.
*************************************************
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
My Journey - 5/11/2010
God's insight to me:
As I was reading each of these devotionals a phrase came to mind that I have said many times, "It is not about us, but all about Him!" The poem from Streams in the Desert states "Only He whose wounded heart was broken with the bitter cross and thorny crown", Max Lucado writes God is Everywhere, Adrian Rogers wrote "Blessed Is the Man That Trusts in the Lord", Cheryl Davis writes about "God's Voice". Skip Moen and D. Phil writes about "what we do we should do it all for Him!", and of course one of my favorite Charles Spurgeon's devotional for morning and evening speaks about Him! In this devotional Charles Spurgeon calls God, the "One". Yes He is!
Each time I write about my journey, it is a journey with Him. Together through this life. Second by second, minute by minute, hour by hour for when you yield your life to Him, His life is your life. The devotional titled "I’m Gonna’ Let It Shine" I think was very well written. I have learned in ministry we must "always keep our eyes focused on Him", for as Christ works through you everything you do is magnified. It must always be done to His glory. To God be the glory, not mine. As I was doing a God's Love program yesterday, a woman said to me, "I could listen to you sing all the time." I looked her in the eyes and said, "You are not hearing me but Jesus singing to you!"
He Is the One
Jesus is the One,
that my life is all about.
With Him in my life,
it’s free from uncertainty and doubt.
I listen to Him speak,
from His Spirit in my heart.
He is the One who cared for me,
right from the very start.
He is the One,
that brightens up my day.
He grabs hold and steadies me,
as I travel along life’s way.
Yes, He is the One,
no other can compare.
It is no wonder why,
with others I want Him to share.
My life is now His,
justified through the Father’s Son.
No longer separated because of sin,
but now joined together as One!
E. P. Shagott
5/12/10
From God's heart, to mine, to yours,
Ed Shagott
*************************************************
Mrs. Charles Cowman Devotional - Streams in the Desert
"When across the heart deep waves of sorrow
Break, as on a dry and barren shore;
When hope glistens with no bright tomorrow,
And the storm seems sweeping evermore;
"When the cup of every earthly gladness
Bears no taste of the life-giving stream;
And high hopes, as though to mock our sadness,
Fade and die as in some fitful dream,
"Who shall hush the weary spirit's chiding?
Who the aching void within shall fill?
Who shall whisper of a peace abiding,
And each surging billow calmly still?
"Only He whose wounded heart was broken
With the bitter cross and thorny crown;
Whose dear love glad words of Joy had spoken,
Who His life for us laid meekly down.
"Blessed Healer, all our burdens lighten;
Give us peace, Thine own sweet peace, we pray!
Keep us near Thee till the morn shall brighten,
And all the mists and shadows flee away!"
*************************************************
God is Everywhere By Max Lucado
“Where can I flee from your presence? If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there.” Psalm 139:7-8, NIV
Our asking “Where is God?” is like a fish asking “Where is water?” or a bird asking “Where is air?” God is everywhere! Equally present in Peking and Peoria. As active in the lives of Icelanders as in the lives of Texans.
We cannot find a place where God is not.
*************************************************
Blessed Is the Man That Trusts in the Lord by Adrian Rogers
"O taste and see that the Lord is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in Him." Psalm 34:8
The Lord Jesus Christ gives us beatitudes - attitudes that ought to be. They are not platitudes. They are attitudes that deal with Christian character.
Your reputation is what others think about you, but character is what God knows about you.
The Beatitudes do not say, "Blessed are what you have," or "Blessed are what you do," but "Blessed are what you are." Most of the people in the world are doing what? They are seeking happiness. If you seek happiness you'll never find it. But if you get right with God, blessedness will find you.
Have you been finding your self-worth in what you have or what you do? Confess it before the Lord and meditate on the attitudes you ought to have in Matthew 5:3-11.
*************************************************
A devotional from 365.org
Have you ever heard God speak? I mean, seriously. I’m talking about hearing an audible voice. Honestly, I cannot say that I have ever heard God in that way. But in many other ways, I have learned to recognize a loving Voice along my journey of faith. Sometimes I hear this Voice in friends and loved ones who give guidance and support. Other times I have heard the Voice in books and authors whose words challenge my way of thinking and change my perspective.
Quite often, I hear this Voice in sermons, clearly echoing God’s call to welcome the stranger, feed the hungry and care for the poor. In pulsing rhythms, soaring melodies and quiet tunes, I also hear the Voice. And what the Voice seems to be saying most often is, in some form or fashion: do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with God.
What do you hear the Voice saying to you today?
Cheryl Davis
*************************************************
I’m Gonna’ Let It Shine
May 11th, 2010 by Skip Moen, D. Phil.
“Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of other people so that they will notice you. Otherwise you cannot expect any reward from your Father who is in heaven.” Matthew 6:1 (translation R. T. France)
Practice Your Righteousness – If you grew up anywhere near Baptists, you probably remember the children’s Sunday school song, “This Little Light of Mine.” The intention behind the song is good. God’s character must shine through our lives if we are to be effective change-agents for the Kingdom. But if we are supposed to be salt and light, why does Yeshua caution His disciples not to practice righteousness in front of others? You might respond, “Well, He is really talking about pride. We should do God’s will without displaying it.” You would be right, if that’s what this verse means. Unfortunately, the English doesn’t capture the Hebrew idiom here. Once we understand the idiom, we will have a greater insight into Yeshua’s warning.
The Greek verb eleemosunen encompasses the entire English phrase, “practice your righteousness.” But this is really a Jewish idiom, not an exhortation toward personal ethics. The idiom is about acts of charity. In other words, practicing righteousness is a shorthand way of recalling the three required acts of religious observance – charity, prayer and fasting. Yeshua is not telling His disciples to avoid these things. He is telling them that their motivation for doing them is not to be governed by public display. This is about the manner and motive, not about the act itself. So, Yeshua is really saying, “Pray, fast and give without the intention to be recognized for what you are doing.” Does this mean that we are to pray, fast and give entirely in secret. Yes, if that’s what it takes to keep our egos down. But no, not if we have already settled the issue of recognition. Do everything for the audience of One. Let Him be glorified – and the rest of it will work itself out without another thought.
Are we to pray, fast and give with a reward in mind? Yes, we are. But the reward that we have in mind is not celebrity status as a great religious person. The reward is to hear the words, “Well done, my good and faithful servant. Enter into your master’s joy.”
Notice that Yeshua assumes that His disciples will perform these Jewish religious rites. Not once does He suggest they are no longer required. Prayer, fasting and charity are essential for growth in godliness. Why? Because they put aside our agendas and focus our actions on God’s agenda. Just doing them brings us closer to Him. The issue that Yeshua addresses is why we do them, not if we do them.
Do you want to increase your righteousness today? Do you want to do those things that emulate God’s character and draw you closer to Him? Then pray, fast and give. It actually doesn’t matter how you feel about praying, fasting and giving. Do them no matter how you feel about doing them. Just remember to clear the motivation issue first. Do them for Him – and the rest will be easy.
*************************************************
May 11 devotional by Charles Spurgeon
Morning
“I am with you alway.”
- Mat_28:20
It is well there is One who is ever the same, and who is ever with us. It is well there is one stable rock amidst the billows of the sea of life. O my soul, set not thine affections upon rusting, moth-eaten, decaying treasures, but set thine heart upon him who abides for ever faithful to thee. Build not thine house upon the moving quicksands of a deceitful world, but found thy hopes upon this rock, which, amid descending rain and roaring floods, shall stand immovably secure. My soul, I charge thee, lay up thy treasure in the only secure cabinet; store thy jewels where thou canst never lose them. Put thine all in Christ; set all thine affections on his person, all thy hope in his merit, all thy trust in his efficacious blood, all thy joy in his presence, and so thou mayest laugh at loss, and defy destruction. Remember that all the flowers in the world’s garden fade by turns, and the day cometh when nothing will be left but the black, cold earth. Death’s black extinguisher must soon put out thy candle. Oh! how sweet to have sunlight when the candle is gone! The dark flood must soon roll between thee and all thou hast; then wed thine heart to him who will never leave thee; trust thyself with him who will go with thee through the black and surging current of death’s stream, and who will land thee safely on the celestial shore, and make thee sit with him in heavenly places for ever. Go, sorrowing son of affliction, tell thy secrets to the Friend who sticketh closer than a brother. Trust all thy concerns with him who never can be taken from thee, who will never leave thee, and who will never let thee leave him, even “Jesus Christ, the same yesterday, and to-day, and for ever.” “Lo, I am with you alway,” is enough for my soul to live upon, let who will forsake me.
Evening
“Only be thou strong and very courageous.”
- Jos_1:7
Our God’s tender love for his servants makes him concerned for the state of their inward feelings. He desires them to be of good courage. Some esteem it a small thing for a believer to be vexed with doubts and fears, but God thinks not so. From this text it is plain that our Master would not have us entangled with fears. He would have us without carefulness, without doubt, without cowardice. Our Master does not think so lightly of our unbelief as we do. When we are desponding we are subject to a grievous malady, not to be trifled with, but to be carried at once to the beloved Physician. Our Lord loveth not to see our countenance sad. It was a law of Ahasuerus that no one should come into the king’s court dressed in mourning: this is not the law of the King of kings, for we may come mourning as we are; but still he would have us put off the spirit of heaviness, and put on the garment of praise, for there is much reason to rejoice. The Christian man ought to be of a courageous spirit, in order that he may glorify the Lord by enduring trials in an heroic manner. If he be fearful and fainthearted, it will dishonour his God. Besides, what a bad example it is. This disease of doubtfulness and discouragement is an epidemic which soon spreads amongst the Lord’s flock. One downcast believer makes twenty souls sad. Moreover, unless your courage is kept up Satan will be too much for you. Let your spirit be joyful in God your Saviour, the joy of the Lord shall be your strength, and no fiend of hell shall make headway against you: but cowardice throws down the banner. Moreover, labour is light to a man of cheerful spirit; and success waits upon cheerfulness. The man who toils, rejoicing in his God, believing with all his heart, has success guaranteed. He who sows in hope shall reap in joy; therefore, dear reader, “be thou strong, and very courageous.”
*************************************************
As I was reading each of these devotionals a phrase came to mind that I have said many times, "It is not about us, but all about Him!" The poem from Streams in the Desert states "Only He whose wounded heart was broken with the bitter cross and thorny crown", Max Lucado writes God is Everywhere, Adrian Rogers wrote "Blessed Is the Man That Trusts in the Lord", Cheryl Davis writes about "God's Voice". Skip Moen and D. Phil writes about "what we do we should do it all for Him!", and of course one of my favorite Charles Spurgeon's devotional for morning and evening speaks about Him! In this devotional Charles Spurgeon calls God, the "One". Yes He is!
Each time I write about my journey, it is a journey with Him. Together through this life. Second by second, minute by minute, hour by hour for when you yield your life to Him, His life is your life. The devotional titled "I’m Gonna’ Let It Shine" I think was very well written. I have learned in ministry we must "always keep our eyes focused on Him", for as Christ works through you everything you do is magnified. It must always be done to His glory. To God be the glory, not mine. As I was doing a God's Love program yesterday, a woman said to me, "I could listen to you sing all the time." I looked her in the eyes and said, "You are not hearing me but Jesus singing to you!"
He Is the One
Jesus is the One,
that my life is all about.
With Him in my life,
it’s free from uncertainty and doubt.
I listen to Him speak,
from His Spirit in my heart.
He is the One who cared for me,
right from the very start.
He is the One,
that brightens up my day.
He grabs hold and steadies me,
as I travel along life’s way.
Yes, He is the One,
no other can compare.
It is no wonder why,
with others I want Him to share.
My life is now His,
justified through the Father’s Son.
No longer separated because of sin,
but now joined together as One!
E. P. Shagott
5/12/10
From God's heart, to mine, to yours,
Ed Shagott
*************************************************
Mrs. Charles Cowman Devotional - Streams in the Desert
"When across the heart deep waves of sorrow
Break, as on a dry and barren shore;
When hope glistens with no bright tomorrow,
And the storm seems sweeping evermore;
"When the cup of every earthly gladness
Bears no taste of the life-giving stream;
And high hopes, as though to mock our sadness,
Fade and die as in some fitful dream,
"Who shall hush the weary spirit's chiding?
Who the aching void within shall fill?
Who shall whisper of a peace abiding,
And each surging billow calmly still?
"Only He whose wounded heart was broken
With the bitter cross and thorny crown;
Whose dear love glad words of Joy had spoken,
Who His life for us laid meekly down.
"Blessed Healer, all our burdens lighten;
Give us peace, Thine own sweet peace, we pray!
Keep us near Thee till the morn shall brighten,
And all the mists and shadows flee away!"
*************************************************
God is Everywhere By Max Lucado
“Where can I flee from your presence? If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there.” Psalm 139:7-8, NIV
Our asking “Where is God?” is like a fish asking “Where is water?” or a bird asking “Where is air?” God is everywhere! Equally present in Peking and Peoria. As active in the lives of Icelanders as in the lives of Texans.
We cannot find a place where God is not.
*************************************************
Blessed Is the Man That Trusts in the Lord by Adrian Rogers
"O taste and see that the Lord is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in Him." Psalm 34:8
The Lord Jesus Christ gives us beatitudes - attitudes that ought to be. They are not platitudes. They are attitudes that deal with Christian character.
Your reputation is what others think about you, but character is what God knows about you.
The Beatitudes do not say, "Blessed are what you have," or "Blessed are what you do," but "Blessed are what you are." Most of the people in the world are doing what? They are seeking happiness. If you seek happiness you'll never find it. But if you get right with God, blessedness will find you.
Have you been finding your self-worth in what you have or what you do? Confess it before the Lord and meditate on the attitudes you ought to have in Matthew 5:3-11.
*************************************************
A devotional from 365.org
Have you ever heard God speak? I mean, seriously. I’m talking about hearing an audible voice. Honestly, I cannot say that I have ever heard God in that way. But in many other ways, I have learned to recognize a loving Voice along my journey of faith. Sometimes I hear this Voice in friends and loved ones who give guidance and support. Other times I have heard the Voice in books and authors whose words challenge my way of thinking and change my perspective.
Quite often, I hear this Voice in sermons, clearly echoing God’s call to welcome the stranger, feed the hungry and care for the poor. In pulsing rhythms, soaring melodies and quiet tunes, I also hear the Voice. And what the Voice seems to be saying most often is, in some form or fashion: do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with God.
What do you hear the Voice saying to you today?
Cheryl Davis
*************************************************
I’m Gonna’ Let It Shine
May 11th, 2010 by Skip Moen, D. Phil.
“Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of other people so that they will notice you. Otherwise you cannot expect any reward from your Father who is in heaven.” Matthew 6:1 (translation R. T. France)
Practice Your Righteousness – If you grew up anywhere near Baptists, you probably remember the children’s Sunday school song, “This Little Light of Mine.” The intention behind the song is good. God’s character must shine through our lives if we are to be effective change-agents for the Kingdom. But if we are supposed to be salt and light, why does Yeshua caution His disciples not to practice righteousness in front of others? You might respond, “Well, He is really talking about pride. We should do God’s will without displaying it.” You would be right, if that’s what this verse means. Unfortunately, the English doesn’t capture the Hebrew idiom here. Once we understand the idiom, we will have a greater insight into Yeshua’s warning.
The Greek verb eleemosunen encompasses the entire English phrase, “practice your righteousness.” But this is really a Jewish idiom, not an exhortation toward personal ethics. The idiom is about acts of charity. In other words, practicing righteousness is a shorthand way of recalling the three required acts of religious observance – charity, prayer and fasting. Yeshua is not telling His disciples to avoid these things. He is telling them that their motivation for doing them is not to be governed by public display. This is about the manner and motive, not about the act itself. So, Yeshua is really saying, “Pray, fast and give without the intention to be recognized for what you are doing.” Does this mean that we are to pray, fast and give entirely in secret. Yes, if that’s what it takes to keep our egos down. But no, not if we have already settled the issue of recognition. Do everything for the audience of One. Let Him be glorified – and the rest of it will work itself out without another thought.
Are we to pray, fast and give with a reward in mind? Yes, we are. But the reward that we have in mind is not celebrity status as a great religious person. The reward is to hear the words, “Well done, my good and faithful servant. Enter into your master’s joy.”
Notice that Yeshua assumes that His disciples will perform these Jewish religious rites. Not once does He suggest they are no longer required. Prayer, fasting and charity are essential for growth in godliness. Why? Because they put aside our agendas and focus our actions on God’s agenda. Just doing them brings us closer to Him. The issue that Yeshua addresses is why we do them, not if we do them.
Do you want to increase your righteousness today? Do you want to do those things that emulate God’s character and draw you closer to Him? Then pray, fast and give. It actually doesn’t matter how you feel about praying, fasting and giving. Do them no matter how you feel about doing them. Just remember to clear the motivation issue first. Do them for Him – and the rest will be easy.
*************************************************
May 11 devotional by Charles Spurgeon
Morning
“I am with you alway.”
- Mat_28:20
It is well there is One who is ever the same, and who is ever with us. It is well there is one stable rock amidst the billows of the sea of life. O my soul, set not thine affections upon rusting, moth-eaten, decaying treasures, but set thine heart upon him who abides for ever faithful to thee. Build not thine house upon the moving quicksands of a deceitful world, but found thy hopes upon this rock, which, amid descending rain and roaring floods, shall stand immovably secure. My soul, I charge thee, lay up thy treasure in the only secure cabinet; store thy jewels where thou canst never lose them. Put thine all in Christ; set all thine affections on his person, all thy hope in his merit, all thy trust in his efficacious blood, all thy joy in his presence, and so thou mayest laugh at loss, and defy destruction. Remember that all the flowers in the world’s garden fade by turns, and the day cometh when nothing will be left but the black, cold earth. Death’s black extinguisher must soon put out thy candle. Oh! how sweet to have sunlight when the candle is gone! The dark flood must soon roll between thee and all thou hast; then wed thine heart to him who will never leave thee; trust thyself with him who will go with thee through the black and surging current of death’s stream, and who will land thee safely on the celestial shore, and make thee sit with him in heavenly places for ever. Go, sorrowing son of affliction, tell thy secrets to the Friend who sticketh closer than a brother. Trust all thy concerns with him who never can be taken from thee, who will never leave thee, and who will never let thee leave him, even “Jesus Christ, the same yesterday, and to-day, and for ever.” “Lo, I am with you alway,” is enough for my soul to live upon, let who will forsake me.
Evening
“Only be thou strong and very courageous.”
- Jos_1:7
Our God’s tender love for his servants makes him concerned for the state of their inward feelings. He desires them to be of good courage. Some esteem it a small thing for a believer to be vexed with doubts and fears, but God thinks not so. From this text it is plain that our Master would not have us entangled with fears. He would have us without carefulness, without doubt, without cowardice. Our Master does not think so lightly of our unbelief as we do. When we are desponding we are subject to a grievous malady, not to be trifled with, but to be carried at once to the beloved Physician. Our Lord loveth not to see our countenance sad. It was a law of Ahasuerus that no one should come into the king’s court dressed in mourning: this is not the law of the King of kings, for we may come mourning as we are; but still he would have us put off the spirit of heaviness, and put on the garment of praise, for there is much reason to rejoice. The Christian man ought to be of a courageous spirit, in order that he may glorify the Lord by enduring trials in an heroic manner. If he be fearful and fainthearted, it will dishonour his God. Besides, what a bad example it is. This disease of doubtfulness and discouragement is an epidemic which soon spreads amongst the Lord’s flock. One downcast believer makes twenty souls sad. Moreover, unless your courage is kept up Satan will be too much for you. Let your spirit be joyful in God your Saviour, the joy of the Lord shall be your strength, and no fiend of hell shall make headway against you: but cowardice throws down the banner. Moreover, labour is light to a man of cheerful spirit; and success waits upon cheerfulness. The man who toils, rejoicing in his God, believing with all his heart, has success guaranteed. He who sows in hope shall reap in joy; therefore, dear reader, “be thou strong, and very courageous.”
*************************************************
Monday, May 10, 2010
My Journey - 5/10/2010
God's insight to me:
As I read the devotional from Streams in the Desert I thought of the many storms in my life, past, present and I know future. Like the flower I was also beaten down at times. Of course when this happens we all look for relief quickly. When we are going through the storm it appears that all we can do is sit there and take it, not knowing when it will pass or even will it pass. But as being a Christian and loving my Lord with all my heart, mind and soul, I know it will and I am not going through it alone. His Son-light is making me stronger from the storm. "Yea, though I walk through the valley of death, I will fear no evil, for Thou art with me!"
Max Lucado's devotional made me smile. See, I am just an ordinary person, like everyone else. He has used me to touch the hearts of so many, all because of my love for Him.
Reading Adrian Roger's devotional touched me deeply. I understand exactly what he wrote about for I have never been more happier in my life now that through the Grace of God and the sacrifice of His Son, Jesus, on the cross, I am now a sinner made righteous saved by Grace.
In Charles Stanley's devotional it brought back the memory when I first heard God's call to me. A teenager at the age of 15 years. But what was lacking for me at that time was the spiritual guidance and teaching's needed to help in my walk with Christ. So for almost 39+ years my journey was still seeking the Savior that was with me all the time.
Cheryl Davis's writing about Winter is truly how I feel in my senior years living in Buffalo, New York area. I search the sky like most for a glimpse of sunshine. The winter wind goes right through me no matter how many articles of clothing I am wearing. But like it has been written before, there is a season for everything. What winter does now for me is make me appreciate the Spring, Summer and Fall that much more.
As I read the devotional by Rick Warren I can relate for I have been experiencing pain and frustration which is a part of this life. I once received an email from a friend that on the bottom of it stated, "Be kind to those you meet today, for you do not know what they are going through today." How true, we don't but God does! Amen to that.
God’s Replacement Policy I thought was a good devotional. My friends once you give Him control,this is a choice that must be made, that Policy becomes an Eternal Policy. It was paid in full by Jesus on Calvary. "Forgive them Father, for they know not what they do!"
The Son asked the Father
the Father agreed
now my friends
it's up to you and me!
From God's heart, to mine, to yours,
Ed Shagott
*************************************************
Seek Communion from Mrs. Charles Cowman Devotional - Streams in the Desert
"They that dwell under his shadow shall return; they shall revive as the corn and grow as the vine" (Hosea 14:7).
The day closed with heavy showers. The plants in my garden were beaten down before the pelting storm, and I saw one flower that I had admired for its beauty and loved for its fragrance exposed to the pitiless storm. The flower fell, shut up its petals, dropped its head; and I saw that all its glory was gone. "I must wait till next year," I said, "before I see that beautiful thing again."
That night passed, and morning came; the sun shone again, and the morning brought strength to the flower. The light looked at it, and the flower looked at the light. There was contact and communion, and power passed into the flower. It held up its head, opened its petals, regained its glory, and seemed fairer than before. I wonder how it took place--this feeble thing coming into contact with the strong thing, and gaining strength!
I cannot tell how it is that I should be able to receive into my being a power to do and to bear by communion with God, but I know It is a fact.
Are you in peril through some crushing, heavy trial? Seek this communion with Christ, and you will receive strength and be able to conquer. "I will strengthen thee."
YESTERDAY'S GRIEF
The rain that fell a-yesterday is ruby on the roses,
Silver on the poplar leaf, and gold on willow stem;
The grief that chanced a-yesterday is silence that incloses
Holy loves when time and change shall never trouble them.
The rain that fell a-yesterday makes all the hillsides glisten,
Coral on the laurel and beryl on the grass;
The grief that chanced a-yesterday has taught the soul to listen
For whispers of eternity in all the winds that pass.
O faint-of-heart, storm-beaten, this rain will gleam tomorrow,
Flame within the columbine and jewels on the thorn,
Heaven in the forget-me-not; though sorrow now be sorrow,
Yet sorrow shall be, beauty in the magic of the morn.
--Katherine Lee Bates
*************************************************
Five Stones By Max Lucado
“David took [the armor] all off. He took his stick in his hand and chose five smooth stones from a stream.” 1 Samuel 17:39-40
The king tried to give David some equipment. “What do you want, boy? Shield? Sword? . . .”
David had something else in mind. Five smooth stones and an ordinary leather sling.
The soldiers gasped. Saul sighed. Goliath jeered. David swung. And God made his point. “Anyone who underestimates what God can do with the ordinary has rocks in his head.”
*************************************************
Happiness, the By-Product of Righteousness by Adrian Rogers
"Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled." Matthew 5:6
Happiness is something you stumble over on your way to serving Jesus. When you are serving the Lord Jesus Christ, happiness is the by-product of righteousness. People who are trying to be happy are focusing their energy at the wrong target. If you will seek after righteousness, then you will be happy.
What you need is to drink of the Spirit.
It is to feed on the Word of God.
The deepest need of your heart will be met only in Jesus.
Ask the Lord to fill you with His presence, to fulfill the deepest need of your heart in Him and Him alone. Now trust Him to do it.
*************************************************
May 10 by Dr. Charles Stanley
The Call of God
1 Samuel 3:2-18
As a young child, Samuel lived in the temple with his mentor, Eli the priest. One night, the boy heard his name called, so he ran to ask Eli what he wanted. The priest, however, hadn't spoken, so he sent the child back to bed. This happened two more times before Eli realized that the Lord was the one calling the boy. Then he instructed Samuel to respond by asking the Lord what He wanted.
Almighty God still speaks to us today. The first time we "hear" Him is when He calls us to salvation. The Holy Spirit makes us aware that something is missing in our life, and then He points us to Jesus Christ as the answer.
Without the Savior, we are lost and hopeless. Everyone is born with a sinful nature that's "bent" away from God. The Father, who's holy and perfect, cannot be in the presence of unholiness. Therefore, the penalty for sin is death—eternal separation from Him. But God loves us, so to correct that situation, Jesus came to earth, lived the perfect life, and died as a substitute for mankind. He took the penalty for our wrong.
Salvation is the greatest gift. To receive it, all we have to do is trust in Jesus as our Lord and Savior. Then, He abides with us and continues to speak, guiding gently and encouraging us toward righteousness.
Have you felt God speaking to you? If so, don't delay. Ask Him to forgive your sin; then accept Christ's substitutionary sacrifice on your behalf, and choose to follow Him. Share your decision with a pastor or trusted Christian friend so that you can have guidance on this beautiful new journey.
*************************************************
From a 365.org daily devotional
What a dark, dreary period this past winter was! It seemed even bleaker than usual. Record snowfall accumulated in many parts of the country. I am always keenly aware of the deepening darkness as winter approaches. The days drag on with familiar grayness, the nights long and cold. My spirit seems to sag as I long for that first hint of spring.
Then one day, without fanfare, but typical of God’s beauty and simplicity, I notice a bird’s clear and melodic song. Colorful crocuses push their way through the soil; the sunshine that seemed so elusive bathes the earth in warmth and light. This awakening takes place year after year, though I sometimes miss its significance. When I pay attention, I learn things in the darkness of winter that help me in the light of spring and summer, for it is in the darkness that I become more aware of the light.
Mary Fahy says it this way: “You have survived the winter because you are, and were, and always will be very much loved. For that small, deep place within you that remained unfrozen and open to Mystery, that is where I have made my dwelling."
Cheryl Davis
*************************************************
God Knows Your Feelings and Frustrations
May 10th, 2010 by Rick Warren
"You know how troubled I am; you have kept a record of my tears." Psalm 56:6 (Good News)
"God sees the hurt in your heart like nobody else can."
You may think, "Nobody knows what I'm going through, nobody feels the pain I'm experiencing."
But God knows!
He knows your feelings and frustrations. He's seen the crisis in your soul. There's no hurt that goes unnoticed by God. Psalm 56:6 says, "You know how troubled I am; you have kept a record of my tears." (Good News)
Often when we're hurting, we feel very isolated and lonely. Maybe there's been a death in the family, a divorce, maybe we've gotten fired, and we start to think, "Nobody understands the way I feel; nobody can tell the way I feel; nobody feels the pain."
But God knows, and "The LORD is like a father to his children, tender and compassionate to those who fear him." Psalms 103:13,(NLT)
God not only sees, He cares!
He knows the causes, the reasons, the things that brought you to this point. He understands because he made you, and he sees the hurt in your heart like nobody else can.
Because God knows our frustrations and despair, we can give those feelings to God: "Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about what happens to you." 1 Peter 5:7, (NLT) Cast them all permanently on God, once and for all, and then, don't take them back.
*************************************************
God’s Replacement Policy
May 10th, 2010 by Marilyn Ehle
“I will give them singleness of heart and put a new spirit within them. I will take away their stony, stubborn heart and give them a tender, responsive heart…” Ezekiel 11:19 (New Living Translation)
After much research into which was most recommended, I purchased a small toaster oven. It cost a bit more than others, but was manufactured by a respected company and came with what I thought was an ironclad guarantee. It worked well for months. And then one day, the small door wouldn’t completely close. I gave it a forceful push and the door slipped into place. A few days later, however, the door again gaped open. This time nothing I did solved the problem. Perhaps a screw was loose in the door?
In our town is a small shop that specializes in the repair of such appliances so I shook out the crumbs, polished the surface and placed the oven in my car. My trusty repairman sadly shook his head when I explained the problem. “I’m sorry, but the manufacturer has made this oven in such a way that the door cannot be removed. You will have to send it back to the factory.”
“What about the replacement guarantee?” I asked. “Oh, that guarantee is very limited. It doesn’t apply to the door.”
God’s guarantees are not limited. He promises to replace our stony, stubborn hearts with those that are tender and responsive. The Apostle Paul wrote, “If anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come. The old has gone, the new is here!”
*************************************************
As I read the devotional from Streams in the Desert I thought of the many storms in my life, past, present and I know future. Like the flower I was also beaten down at times. Of course when this happens we all look for relief quickly. When we are going through the storm it appears that all we can do is sit there and take it, not knowing when it will pass or even will it pass. But as being a Christian and loving my Lord with all my heart, mind and soul, I know it will and I am not going through it alone. His Son-light is making me stronger from the storm. "Yea, though I walk through the valley of death, I will fear no evil, for Thou art with me!"
Max Lucado's devotional made me smile. See, I am just an ordinary person, like everyone else. He has used me to touch the hearts of so many, all because of my love for Him.
Reading Adrian Roger's devotional touched me deeply. I understand exactly what he wrote about for I have never been more happier in my life now that through the Grace of God and the sacrifice of His Son, Jesus, on the cross, I am now a sinner made righteous saved by Grace.
In Charles Stanley's devotional it brought back the memory when I first heard God's call to me. A teenager at the age of 15 years. But what was lacking for me at that time was the spiritual guidance and teaching's needed to help in my walk with Christ. So for almost 39+ years my journey was still seeking the Savior that was with me all the time.
Cheryl Davis's writing about Winter is truly how I feel in my senior years living in Buffalo, New York area. I search the sky like most for a glimpse of sunshine. The winter wind goes right through me no matter how many articles of clothing I am wearing. But like it has been written before, there is a season for everything. What winter does now for me is make me appreciate the Spring, Summer and Fall that much more.
As I read the devotional by Rick Warren I can relate for I have been experiencing pain and frustration which is a part of this life. I once received an email from a friend that on the bottom of it stated, "Be kind to those you meet today, for you do not know what they are going through today." How true, we don't but God does! Amen to that.
God’s Replacement Policy I thought was a good devotional. My friends once you give Him control,this is a choice that must be made, that Policy becomes an Eternal Policy. It was paid in full by Jesus on Calvary. "Forgive them Father, for they know not what they do!"
The Son asked the Father
the Father agreed
now my friends
it's up to you and me!
From God's heart, to mine, to yours,
Ed Shagott
*************************************************
Seek Communion from Mrs. Charles Cowman Devotional - Streams in the Desert
"They that dwell under his shadow shall return; they shall revive as the corn and grow as the vine" (Hosea 14:7).
The day closed with heavy showers. The plants in my garden were beaten down before the pelting storm, and I saw one flower that I had admired for its beauty and loved for its fragrance exposed to the pitiless storm. The flower fell, shut up its petals, dropped its head; and I saw that all its glory was gone. "I must wait till next year," I said, "before I see that beautiful thing again."
That night passed, and morning came; the sun shone again, and the morning brought strength to the flower. The light looked at it, and the flower looked at the light. There was contact and communion, and power passed into the flower. It held up its head, opened its petals, regained its glory, and seemed fairer than before. I wonder how it took place--this feeble thing coming into contact with the strong thing, and gaining strength!
I cannot tell how it is that I should be able to receive into my being a power to do and to bear by communion with God, but I know It is a fact.
Are you in peril through some crushing, heavy trial? Seek this communion with Christ, and you will receive strength and be able to conquer. "I will strengthen thee."
YESTERDAY'S GRIEF
The rain that fell a-yesterday is ruby on the roses,
Silver on the poplar leaf, and gold on willow stem;
The grief that chanced a-yesterday is silence that incloses
Holy loves when time and change shall never trouble them.
The rain that fell a-yesterday makes all the hillsides glisten,
Coral on the laurel and beryl on the grass;
The grief that chanced a-yesterday has taught the soul to listen
For whispers of eternity in all the winds that pass.
O faint-of-heart, storm-beaten, this rain will gleam tomorrow,
Flame within the columbine and jewels on the thorn,
Heaven in the forget-me-not; though sorrow now be sorrow,
Yet sorrow shall be, beauty in the magic of the morn.
--Katherine Lee Bates
*************************************************
Five Stones By Max Lucado
“David took [the armor] all off. He took his stick in his hand and chose five smooth stones from a stream.” 1 Samuel 17:39-40
The king tried to give David some equipment. “What do you want, boy? Shield? Sword? . . .”
David had something else in mind. Five smooth stones and an ordinary leather sling.
The soldiers gasped. Saul sighed. Goliath jeered. David swung. And God made his point. “Anyone who underestimates what God can do with the ordinary has rocks in his head.”
*************************************************
Happiness, the By-Product of Righteousness by Adrian Rogers
"Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled." Matthew 5:6
Happiness is something you stumble over on your way to serving Jesus. When you are serving the Lord Jesus Christ, happiness is the by-product of righteousness. People who are trying to be happy are focusing their energy at the wrong target. If you will seek after righteousness, then you will be happy.
What you need is to drink of the Spirit.
It is to feed on the Word of God.
The deepest need of your heart will be met only in Jesus.
Ask the Lord to fill you with His presence, to fulfill the deepest need of your heart in Him and Him alone. Now trust Him to do it.
*************************************************
May 10 by Dr. Charles Stanley
The Call of God
1 Samuel 3:2-18
As a young child, Samuel lived in the temple with his mentor, Eli the priest. One night, the boy heard his name called, so he ran to ask Eli what he wanted. The priest, however, hadn't spoken, so he sent the child back to bed. This happened two more times before Eli realized that the Lord was the one calling the boy. Then he instructed Samuel to respond by asking the Lord what He wanted.
Almighty God still speaks to us today. The first time we "hear" Him is when He calls us to salvation. The Holy Spirit makes us aware that something is missing in our life, and then He points us to Jesus Christ as the answer.
Without the Savior, we are lost and hopeless. Everyone is born with a sinful nature that's "bent" away from God. The Father, who's holy and perfect, cannot be in the presence of unholiness. Therefore, the penalty for sin is death—eternal separation from Him. But God loves us, so to correct that situation, Jesus came to earth, lived the perfect life, and died as a substitute for mankind. He took the penalty for our wrong.
Salvation is the greatest gift. To receive it, all we have to do is trust in Jesus as our Lord and Savior. Then, He abides with us and continues to speak, guiding gently and encouraging us toward righteousness.
Have you felt God speaking to you? If so, don't delay. Ask Him to forgive your sin; then accept Christ's substitutionary sacrifice on your behalf, and choose to follow Him. Share your decision with a pastor or trusted Christian friend so that you can have guidance on this beautiful new journey.
*************************************************
From a 365.org daily devotional
What a dark, dreary period this past winter was! It seemed even bleaker than usual. Record snowfall accumulated in many parts of the country. I am always keenly aware of the deepening darkness as winter approaches. The days drag on with familiar grayness, the nights long and cold. My spirit seems to sag as I long for that first hint of spring.
Then one day, without fanfare, but typical of God’s beauty and simplicity, I notice a bird’s clear and melodic song. Colorful crocuses push their way through the soil; the sunshine that seemed so elusive bathes the earth in warmth and light. This awakening takes place year after year, though I sometimes miss its significance. When I pay attention, I learn things in the darkness of winter that help me in the light of spring and summer, for it is in the darkness that I become more aware of the light.
Mary Fahy says it this way: “You have survived the winter because you are, and were, and always will be very much loved. For that small, deep place within you that remained unfrozen and open to Mystery, that is where I have made my dwelling."
Cheryl Davis
*************************************************
God Knows Your Feelings and Frustrations
May 10th, 2010 by Rick Warren
"You know how troubled I am; you have kept a record of my tears." Psalm 56:6 (Good News)
"God sees the hurt in your heart like nobody else can."
You may think, "Nobody knows what I'm going through, nobody feels the pain I'm experiencing."
But God knows!
He knows your feelings and frustrations. He's seen the crisis in your soul. There's no hurt that goes unnoticed by God. Psalm 56:6 says, "You know how troubled I am; you have kept a record of my tears." (Good News)
Often when we're hurting, we feel very isolated and lonely. Maybe there's been a death in the family, a divorce, maybe we've gotten fired, and we start to think, "Nobody understands the way I feel; nobody can tell the way I feel; nobody feels the pain."
But God knows, and "The LORD is like a father to his children, tender and compassionate to those who fear him." Psalms 103:13,(NLT)
God not only sees, He cares!
He knows the causes, the reasons, the things that brought you to this point. He understands because he made you, and he sees the hurt in your heart like nobody else can.
Because God knows our frustrations and despair, we can give those feelings to God: "Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about what happens to you." 1 Peter 5:7, (NLT) Cast them all permanently on God, once and for all, and then, don't take them back.
*************************************************
God’s Replacement Policy
May 10th, 2010 by Marilyn Ehle
“I will give them singleness of heart and put a new spirit within them. I will take away their stony, stubborn heart and give them a tender, responsive heart…” Ezekiel 11:19 (New Living Translation)
After much research into which was most recommended, I purchased a small toaster oven. It cost a bit more than others, but was manufactured by a respected company and came with what I thought was an ironclad guarantee. It worked well for months. And then one day, the small door wouldn’t completely close. I gave it a forceful push and the door slipped into place. A few days later, however, the door again gaped open. This time nothing I did solved the problem. Perhaps a screw was loose in the door?
In our town is a small shop that specializes in the repair of such appliances so I shook out the crumbs, polished the surface and placed the oven in my car. My trusty repairman sadly shook his head when I explained the problem. “I’m sorry, but the manufacturer has made this oven in such a way that the door cannot be removed. You will have to send it back to the factory.”
“What about the replacement guarantee?” I asked. “Oh, that guarantee is very limited. It doesn’t apply to the door.”
God’s guarantees are not limited. He promises to replace our stony, stubborn hearts with those that are tender and responsive. The Apostle Paul wrote, “If anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come. The old has gone, the new is here!”
*************************************************
My Journey - 5/9/2010
God's insight for me:
As I was reading this devotional for Mother's Day I reflected back to my mother who passed on to a better life with Jesus in 1991. As I minister to "God's wounded" in nursing homes I tell them if you would walk into my mother's house you would find her normally sitting at the kitchen table. In front of her was her bible, a crossword book, and a cup of black coffee. She enjoyed all three but "loved" her bible.
In the devotional below the woman writes about being a mother and what she wants for her children. Going back sixty years ago, my mom really wanted her three boys to have basically the same thing, "to reach their full potential in good values and with strong character". In her next sentence she explained how.
I now have been in the Lord's active ministry for 7 1/2 years. If my mother did not love the Lord, do you think I would have come to know Him? Well, the chances are greater that you will if you do love Him and show this in your daily life. My mother was a part of my life for 48 years. I never knew her to change or compromise her walk with Christ. She didn't push Jesus on you, she lived Him.
The author below makes a good point about noise in today's world. Distractions for children for sure. And parents are fighting that daily. These are worldly distractions. Have you noticed that every form of media is loaded with advertisement? Less and less viewing programs. Also the content of the viewing programs has changed drastically. Just think what would happen if all the channels would have scripture on them. For sure we would know a lot more of the Bible then we do now. But the one most important part of all this is "choice". See, my mother made her choice by reading her Bible daily. She prayed daily. She asked for the Lords guidance for raising her kids and being a good wife for her husband. My friends, the Lord answered her prayers. Because of her love for Him, I now love Him.
God Created “A Mom”
God gave her loving hands,
to grab and hold us tight.
God gave her a gentle heart,
to guide and make things right.
God gave her understanding,
for He knew with children she would need.
God gave her endurance and patience,
all needed to raise a family!
God gave her eyes to watch,
and ears to hear our cries.
God gave her many answers,
to all our many questions and why’s???
But what was most important,
was His love for each and everyone,
see God created “a mom”,
to see the job got done!
E. P. Shagott
5/10/2010
From God's heart, to mine, to yours,
Ed Shagott
*************************************************
May 9, 2010 A devotional from Daily Disciples Ministries
Today's Reading: 2 Kings 7-9; John 1:1-28
Today's Thoughts: Mother's Day
"Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom." Psalm 90:12
"Mom how was it in the olden days when you used to have to call the home phone to talk to your friend?" asked my teenage son. The world has definitely changed since the time my parents raised me. I would guess that the desires of a mother's heart have not changed as much.
So, what does the mother really want for Mother's Day? For me, I want my children to reach their full potential in good values and with strong character. I truly believe they can only achieve my goals for them if they walk with the Lord. Because my prayers do not have the power to force them into the desires of my heart, I pray that I might have the wisdom to lead them to the Lord.
Being a mother to children today is not easy. I continually need to remind myself that "I am the mother" as I am challenged to the core by children who have suddenly become taller, stronger and smarter than I. Repeating, "I am the mother!" aloud helps me stand my ground on many issues, as that answer is sufficient for any of their "whys?" Fortunately, I have noticed that these power struggles do not last long as their attention span changes with the next text message or Facebook update. One of the biggest challenges facing anyone to walk with the Lord today is all the stimuli competing for our concentration to pray and to listen to the Lord, as clearly displayed in the life of a teenager.
Teenagers love stimuli. Everything associated with them is loud, bright and fast. They text on their cell phone, email on Facebook, change their iPod tunes, sort through a homework schedule and then act as if they are listening to me. Children today prepare for a much different world since the days of roll down windows and rotary dial phones. Change has a new meaning in today's world.
Changes in the "things" are not my real concern for the next generation. I am concerned about the many things that compete for our children's attention. The world is loud in our ears and bright in our eyes. This way of life will only increase with advancing technology. I am NOT against change or technology; I am against constant, continual noise. If we are not proactive in protecting our minds from the noise, we are going to miss the things that matter most: a personal, walking talking relationship with the Lord.
As a new teenage believer, I heard God's voice the first time I read the Bible. I learned quickly that in seeking the Lord, my mind must be quiet, like developing a sixth sense. When we tone down our other senses, our awareness of God becomes more evident. A blind person depends more on their sense of hearing and a deaf person depends more on their sense of sight. When everything is shaking and moving, it is difficult to be in tune with your sixth sense of spirituality. If we do not develop ears to hear the Lord and eyes to see His perspective, we will diminish the greatest relationship we could ever have. Regardless of age or stage of life, spirituality is not a "sense" but a lifestyle.
Think about Jesus' lifestyle. He walked for miles without cell phones or iPods. He rose early to pray. He meditated and contemplated. As parents today, we need to foster an environment that provides the same opportunities, as we model the same behaviors in our lifestyle. Do we take the time to read the Bible or wake up early to pray? Do we know how to meditate and quiet our minds to sense the leading of the Lord?
A lifestyle with the Lord starts by praying to have an eternal perspective. Moses prayed it best in Psalm 90:12, "Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom." Moses understood that we live maybe 70 to 80 years on this earth (Psalm 90:10) but eternity is forever. Are we spending our time and giving our attention to what matters for eternity? Are we making a difference here that counts someday up there? Mothers are to teach, train and lead their children to have an understanding of that eternal perspective. We must cultivate it in our daily lives so that our children learn from our example.
A great Mother's Day gift? My child playing worship songs on their iPod.
As I was reading this devotional for Mother's Day I reflected back to my mother who passed on to a better life with Jesus in 1991. As I minister to "God's wounded" in nursing homes I tell them if you would walk into my mother's house you would find her normally sitting at the kitchen table. In front of her was her bible, a crossword book, and a cup of black coffee. She enjoyed all three but "loved" her bible.
In the devotional below the woman writes about being a mother and what she wants for her children. Going back sixty years ago, my mom really wanted her three boys to have basically the same thing, "to reach their full potential in good values and with strong character". In her next sentence she explained how.
I now have been in the Lord's active ministry for 7 1/2 years. If my mother did not love the Lord, do you think I would have come to know Him? Well, the chances are greater that you will if you do love Him and show this in your daily life. My mother was a part of my life for 48 years. I never knew her to change or compromise her walk with Christ. She didn't push Jesus on you, she lived Him.
The author below makes a good point about noise in today's world. Distractions for children for sure. And parents are fighting that daily. These are worldly distractions. Have you noticed that every form of media is loaded with advertisement? Less and less viewing programs. Also the content of the viewing programs has changed drastically. Just think what would happen if all the channels would have scripture on them. For sure we would know a lot more of the Bible then we do now. But the one most important part of all this is "choice". See, my mother made her choice by reading her Bible daily. She prayed daily. She asked for the Lords guidance for raising her kids and being a good wife for her husband. My friends, the Lord answered her prayers. Because of her love for Him, I now love Him.
God Created “A Mom”
God gave her loving hands,
to grab and hold us tight.
God gave her a gentle heart,
to guide and make things right.
God gave her understanding,
for He knew with children she would need.
God gave her endurance and patience,
all needed to raise a family!
God gave her eyes to watch,
and ears to hear our cries.
God gave her many answers,
to all our many questions and why’s???
But what was most important,
was His love for each and everyone,
see God created “a mom”,
to see the job got done!
E. P. Shagott
5/10/2010
From God's heart, to mine, to yours,
Ed Shagott
*************************************************
May 9, 2010 A devotional from Daily Disciples Ministries
Today's Reading: 2 Kings 7-9; John 1:1-28
Today's Thoughts: Mother's Day
"Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom." Psalm 90:12
"Mom how was it in the olden days when you used to have to call the home phone to talk to your friend?" asked my teenage son. The world has definitely changed since the time my parents raised me. I would guess that the desires of a mother's heart have not changed as much.
So, what does the mother really want for Mother's Day? For me, I want my children to reach their full potential in good values and with strong character. I truly believe they can only achieve my goals for them if they walk with the Lord. Because my prayers do not have the power to force them into the desires of my heart, I pray that I might have the wisdom to lead them to the Lord.
Being a mother to children today is not easy. I continually need to remind myself that "I am the mother" as I am challenged to the core by children who have suddenly become taller, stronger and smarter than I. Repeating, "I am the mother!" aloud helps me stand my ground on many issues, as that answer is sufficient for any of their "whys?" Fortunately, I have noticed that these power struggles do not last long as their attention span changes with the next text message or Facebook update. One of the biggest challenges facing anyone to walk with the Lord today is all the stimuli competing for our concentration to pray and to listen to the Lord, as clearly displayed in the life of a teenager.
Teenagers love stimuli. Everything associated with them is loud, bright and fast. They text on their cell phone, email on Facebook, change their iPod tunes, sort through a homework schedule and then act as if they are listening to me. Children today prepare for a much different world since the days of roll down windows and rotary dial phones. Change has a new meaning in today's world.
Changes in the "things" are not my real concern for the next generation. I am concerned about the many things that compete for our children's attention. The world is loud in our ears and bright in our eyes. This way of life will only increase with advancing technology. I am NOT against change or technology; I am against constant, continual noise. If we are not proactive in protecting our minds from the noise, we are going to miss the things that matter most: a personal, walking talking relationship with the Lord.
As a new teenage believer, I heard God's voice the first time I read the Bible. I learned quickly that in seeking the Lord, my mind must be quiet, like developing a sixth sense. When we tone down our other senses, our awareness of God becomes more evident. A blind person depends more on their sense of hearing and a deaf person depends more on their sense of sight. When everything is shaking and moving, it is difficult to be in tune with your sixth sense of spirituality. If we do not develop ears to hear the Lord and eyes to see His perspective, we will diminish the greatest relationship we could ever have. Regardless of age or stage of life, spirituality is not a "sense" but a lifestyle.
Think about Jesus' lifestyle. He walked for miles without cell phones or iPods. He rose early to pray. He meditated and contemplated. As parents today, we need to foster an environment that provides the same opportunities, as we model the same behaviors in our lifestyle. Do we take the time to read the Bible or wake up early to pray? Do we know how to meditate and quiet our minds to sense the leading of the Lord?
A lifestyle with the Lord starts by praying to have an eternal perspective. Moses prayed it best in Psalm 90:12, "Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom." Moses understood that we live maybe 70 to 80 years on this earth (Psalm 90:10) but eternity is forever. Are we spending our time and giving our attention to what matters for eternity? Are we making a difference here that counts someday up there? Mothers are to teach, train and lead their children to have an understanding of that eternal perspective. We must cultivate it in our daily lives so that our children learn from our example.
A great Mother's Day gift? My child playing worship songs on their iPod.
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
My Journey - 4/28 thru 5/8/2010
It has been a busy time the last eleven days. With presenting the "God's Love" programs, church activities, and family life, the time has flown by. I want to share one special devotional for each of these days and how God has touched me as I was experiencing Him through this time. What I find with being busy, yes even busy for the Lord, I must be careful that I don't squeeze Him out of my 24 hour day.
God's insight to me:
As I read this line from Charles Stanley's devotional what stood out was two words, "to seek", "It is possible for believers to seek victory over life's Goliaths with wrong motives." We as believers can seek all we want, but if it is not for God's glory we will be doing a lot of seeking and waiting. Also how many times have you tried to bargain with God? I have and it doesn't work. Why, because it is for ourselves and not for Him!
What Max Lucado wrote in his 4/29 devotional hits right on the mark. I have found in this worldly life, family, friends, co-workers and yes, even church family will let you down or turn away now and then. But not God! He has never left me nor forsaked me. Thank You, Dear Father!!!
A. B. Simpson writes about a "Love believeth all things." In the last paragraph he writes the words, "mind and heart of Christ". My friends, that is what is being called Christ-like. As I strive each day for that, I find life more fullfilling and understandable. All because of Him!
In the Streams from the Desert devotional I loved the written words, "an echo from the throne and a whisper from the heart of God." As Christians aren't you excited that we have our prayers answered that way? I am. Daily I tell people, "Most people do not understand just how blessed I am." My friends, constantly with my walk with Christ, He is whispering to my heart. Do I deserve it? Not at all, but by His Grace and love He claimed and forgave me. Thank You Jesus!
As I read Adrian Rogers devotional about your Bible coming alive, I am constantly working on that. I remember last week my dog was having some problems. He wasn't sleeping which meant I wasn't sleeping. Being very attached to my little furry friend, I was worried about his well being. The Lord spoke to my heart and said, "Go to my Word!" I picked up my Bible and opened it to Psalm 1:1-2. It begins "Blessed is the man", God told me not to worry it will be alright for as I read the remainder of the verse, who has not walked in the counsel of the ungodly, and has not stood in the way of sinners, and has not sat in the seat of the scornful. Psalm 1:2 But his delight is only in the Law of Jehovah; and in His Law he meditates day and night. Praise God!
In the Mighty Forest devotional by Vonette Bright it speaks of the Church. As our Pastor has stated several times, "we are not in this alone!" We are the Body of Christ. We are here to fulfill His purpose for us and bring glory to the Father. I can only speak for myself for I know my life became more fruitful once I got my eyes off myself and on to others. I will always remember the phrase, "I cried because I had no shoes, until I saw someone who had no feet!"
Adrian Rogers wrote, "God stepped from behind the curtain of nowhere and stood upon the platform of nothing and spoke a world into existence." If you can grasp that then you can understand what I tell the shut-ins at the various nursing homes, "If God be for us, who can be against us?" Read Mr. Roger's last for sentences and as a believer what are you worried about? It's about Him, not us!!! Just give Him thanks for choosing us, way before we chose Him. Have you?
This is a good time to follow with Charles Spurgeon's devotional. He writes "If God be your God, and Christ your Christ, the Lord has a special, peculiar favour to you; you are the object of his choice, accepted in his beloved Son." I say Amen to that!!!
As I read F. B. Meyers devotional the 23rd Psalm verse 1 came to mind, "The Lord is my shepherd I shall not want". My friends, with Him I have no wants.
Max Lucado's devotional about mercy brought to my mind the thought of this criminal that was hanging on a cross next to Jesus, Did he hear about Him before he was crucified for his crime? It was in his final moments on this earth that he finally understood who Jesus was. Do you understand? If you are not sure ask Jesus now to make Himself real to you. Your life will never be the same. Ask Jesus into your heart and you also will be in Paradise.
How fitting that this last devotional by Charles Stanley is about mom's! I am typing this on the morning of Mother's Day. Our Pastor has often spoke of his grandmother and how she would pray everyday, for everyone. Yep, everyone! A long prayer that must have been. But what an impact it made on him. I believe it was before he was a Christian, but his grandmother didn't wait for that. She knew the importance of prayer, like so many other mom's do! This being Mother's Day I want to close with a poem I wrote for my mom, after she had passed on. Oh, if only I could of read it to her before she went to her heavenly home. But I know she has heard me recite it many times, with Jesus at her side.
To My Mother
My mother was a special person,
who always gave from the heart.
She never asked for anything
even the day we had to part.
I always felt special when near her
for she always heard my cry.
And when I felt discouraged,
I had to only look in her eyes.
They had a way of saying
without me asking why
life is always worth living,
never give up and always try.
Besides being my mother
she was also my best friend.
My love for her is eternal
and I pray we'll meet again.
All my love,
Your son Ed
From God's heart, to mine, to yours,
Ed Shagott
*************************************************
April 28th, 2010
The Importance of Right Motives Dr. Charles Stanley
1 Samuel 17:20-40
David found King Saul's hefty reward for Goliath's defeat interesting—in fact, he asked to have it repeated twice (vv. 26, 30). Money, freedom, and a pretty girl would make almost any teenage boy take notice! However, though David was young, he was not foolhardy. The reward was a nice perk, but it wasn't the young shepherd's motivation.
David's reason for standing against Goliath was to serve the Lord. The boy openly expressed his disdain for the giant: "For who is this uncircumcised Philistine, that he should taunt the armies of the living God?" (1 Sam. 17:26). Challenging the chosen nation, Israel, was the same as defying the Lord Himself. David was prepared to defend Yahweh's holy name and His people, even against this fearsome warrior. A right and holy motive gives a person confidence to obey God, even if doing so defies human wisdom.
It is possible for believers to seek victory over life's Goliaths with wrong motives. A lot of reasons that sound good are actually selfish. I'm tired of being in this mess. Or Lord, I can't run away, so You'll have to remove this problem. Some people try to bargain their way out of tight spots: If I had more money, then I'd give more to the church. Those promises are rarely fulfilled.
The right motive for facing a problem is a desire to follow, serve, and honor God, no matter what. Life's Goliaths do not just tax our comfort or wellbeing; these challenges can impede our obedient walk with the Lord. He will give victory to those who stand strong in His name.
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April 29th, 2010
God is for You By Max Lucado
“God is the strength of my heart.” Psalm 73:26, NKJV
God is for you. Turn to the sidelines; that’s God cheering your run. Look past the finish line; that’s God applauding your steps. Listen for Him in the bleachers, shouting your name. Too tired to continue? He’ll carry you. Too discouraged to fight? He’s picking you up. God is for you.
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April 30th, 2010
"Love believeth all things" (I. Cor. xiii. 7). by A. B. Simpson
Beautiful is the expression in the Book of Isaiah which reflects with exceeding sweetness the love of our dear Lord. He said, "They are My people, children that will not lie; so He was their Saviour." They did lie, but He would not believe it. At least He speaks as if He would not believe it in the greatness of His love, because they were His people.
He has not seen iniquity in Jacob nor perversity in Israel. There is plenty of it to see, and the devil sees it all, and a good many people are only too glad to see it; but the dear Father will not see it. He covers it with His love and the precious blood of His dear atoning Son. Such a wonderful love ought surely to make us gentler to others, and more anxious to cause our Father less need to hide His loving eyes from our imperfections and faults.
If we have the mind and heart of Christ, we shall clothe even the world with those graces which faith can claim for them, and try our best to count them as if they were real, and by love and prayer we shall at length make them real. "Love believeth all things."
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May 1st, 2010
What Cannot Be Uttered from Mrs. Charles Cowman Devotional - Streams in the Desert
"Likewise also the Spirit helpeth our infirmities; for we know not what to pray for as we ought; but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God" (Rom. 8:26, 27).
This is the deep mystery of prayer. This is the delicate divine mechanism which words cannot interpret, and which theology cannot explain, but which the humblest believer knows even when he does not understand.
Oh, the burdens that we love to bear and cannot understand! Oh, the inarticulate out-reachings of our hearts for things we cannot comprehend! And yet we know they are an echo from the throne and a whisper from the heart of God. It is often a groan rather than a song, a burden rather than a buoyant wing. But it is a blessed burden, and it is a groan whose undertone is praise and unutterable joy. It is "a groaning which cannot be uttered." We could not ourselves express it always, and sometimes we do not understand any more than that God is praying in us, for something that needs His touch and that He understands.
And so we can just pour out the fullness of our heart, the burden of our spirit, the sorrow that crushes us, and know that He hears, He loves, He understands, He receives; and He separates from our prayer all that is imperfect, ignorant and wrong, and presents the rest, with the incense of the great High Priest, before the throne on high; and our prayer is heard, accepted and answered in His name. --A. B. Simpson
It is not necessary to be always speaking to God or always hearing from God, to have communion with Him; there is an inarticulate fellowship more sweet than words. The little child can sit all day long beside its busy mother and, although few words are spoken on either side, and both are busy, the one at his absorbing play, the other at her engrossing work, yet both are in perfect fellowship. He knows that she is there, and she knows that he is all right. So the saint and the Saviour can go on for hours in the silent fellowship of love, and he be busy about the most common things, and yet conscious that every little thing he does is touched with the complexion of His presence, and the sense of His approval and blessing.
And then, when pressed with burdens and troubles too complicated to put into words and too mysterious to tell or understand, how sweet it is to fall back into His blessed arms, and just sob out the sorrow that we cannot speak! --Selected
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May 2nd, 2010
Making Your Bible Come Alive by Adrian Rogers
"Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." 2 Timothy 2:15
Why is it that sometimes when we read the Bible we leave our common sense at the door? You don't just pick up a book, open it at random, and start reading in the middle of a paragraph. The book wouldn't make any sense.
In order to understand and get the full appreciation for the book, we read it sequentially and in paragraphs or units.
When you read the Bible, read for quality not quantity. Don't see how much of the Bible you can read. See how much of the Bible you can assimilate and apply! Maybe what you need to do is spend a week studying one verse.
In your Bible reading today, stop and ask yourself:
"What is God telling ME?"
Not "what does this say?"
But "what is God saying to me?"
Then seek to put that into practice today.
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May 3rd, 2010
Mighty Forest by Vonette Bright
“Carry each others burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” Galatians 6:2 (NIV)
The huge Sequoia trees of California tower as much as 300 feet above ground.
Some were alive when Jesus walked on the earth.
Strangely, these massive giants have unusually shallow root systems.
But you won’t find these redwoods standing alone.
They grow in clusters because high winds would otherwise quickly uproot them.
Their intertwining roots provide support against the storms.
Friend, in this world, you can expect the storms of life.
But as the Church, the Body of Christ, we must support one another through tough times.
Don’t be too proud to admit your need.
And when you try to go it alone, you are in the greatest danger of falling.
Yes, friend, the Church is a mighty forest only when you assist others through the storms.
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May 4th, 2010
God's Omnipotence in Creation by Adrian Rogers
"In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth." Genesis 1:1
An eloquent preacher said, "God stepped from behind the curtain of nowhere and stood upon the platform of nothing and spoke a world into existence." God is the creator of all that your hand can touch, your eye can see, your ears can hear, and your nose can smell. If you see a watch, I hope you assume there's a watchmaker. And if you see the precise atomic flux of the universe, I hope you don't believe that happened by chance. The evolutionists believe that if you take billions of years and add time plus chance, that you can turn frogs into princes. In school they call that fairy tales. In the laboratory they call it science.
God spoke your life into existence. His Word sustains your breath. His Word can silence your breath. Thank Him for your life today!
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May 5th, 2010
A devotional by Charles Spurgeon
“I will be their God, and they shall be my people.”
- 2Co_6:16
What a sweet title: “My people!” What a cheering revelation: “Their God!” How much of meaning is couched in those two words, “My people!” Here is speciality. The whole world is God’s; the heaven, even the heaven of heavens is the Lord’s, and he reigneth among the children of men; but of those whom he hath chosen, whom he hath purchased to himself, he saith what he saith not of others-”My people.” In this word there is the idea of proprietorship. In a special manner the “Lord’s portion is his people; Jacob is the lot of his inheritance.” All the nations upon earth are his; the whole world is in his power; yet are his people, his chosen, more especially his possession; for he has done more for them than others; he has bought them with his blood; he has brought them nigh to himself; he has set his great heart upon them; he has loved them with an everlasting love, a love which many waters cannot quench, and which the revolutions of time shall never suffice in the least degree to diminish. Dear friends, can you, by faith, see yourselves in that number? Can you look up to heaven and say, “My Lord and my God: mine by that sweet relationship which entitles me to call thee Father; mine by that hallowed fellowship which I delight to hold with thee when thou art pleased to manifest thyself unto me as thou dost not unto the world?” Canst thou read the Book of Inspiration, and find there the indentures of thy salvation? Canst thou read thy title writ in precious blood? Canst thou, by humble faith, lay hold of Jesus’ garments, and say, “My Christ”? If thou canst, then God saith of thee, and of others like thee, “My people;” for, if God be your God, and Christ your Christ, the Lord has a special, peculiar favour to you; you are the object of his choice, accepted in his beloved Son.
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May 6th, 2010
GOD'S PROVISION by F. B. Meyer
"Give us this day our daily bread."-- Mat_6:11.
IF YOU want daily bread, and would pray for it aright, you must ask as a child; and you must put first, before your own satisfaction, the Hallowing of God's Name, and the doing of His Will. Implicitly you suggest that if He gives you bread, you will use the strength it gives for His service.
Let us ever think of God as the bountiful and generous Giver. Too often He has been described as hard and austere, and as a result, men dread God, and only think of Him when they have done wrong. But we should describe Him as the All-Giver, who gives all things to all with the most royal generosity. He gives sunbeams and dewdrops, showers and rainbows, grace and glory, His beloved Son and His Spirit, human love and friendship, the daily spreading of our table, the provision of all that we need for life and godliness. Whether we wake or sleep, whether we are evil or good, whether we are pleasing to Him or not; to those who forget and blaspheme Him equally as to the saints and martyrs of the Church, God gives with both hands, pressed down and running over. We cannot buy, we do not merit, we cannot claim, but we may rely on Him to give. God is Love; and Love cannot refrain from giving, or it ceases to be Love.
Yet how low God stoops! He is so great, that His greatness is unsearchable. He dwells in the high and lofty place. His sun is ninety-seven millions of miles away from our earth; He has filled the heavens with countless constellations, for each of which He has a name. He puts the Himalaya into a scale, and the islands are as dust in His balances; but Jesus has taught us to say, "Our Father, give us bread!" When we get troubled about the immensity of heaven and the distances of the universe, let us come back to the discourse, of which this prayer is part, and which tells us that the great God thinks about the clothing of the lilies, the down on a butterfly's wings, the food of the young lions in the forest, the store of acorns that squirrels accumulate for their provision. It is wonderful to remember that from the first days of man's sojourn on earth, our Father has been laying up stores for us. Though we may be among the youngest children of Time, we come to a table as richly plenished and provided as those who first tasted of His bounty. "Fear not, it is your Father's good pleasure to give."
PRAYER
Heavenly Father, let me not be anxious about to-morrow's provision or path, but trust Thee to provide and lead for to-day. Open Thine hand, and satisfy the desire of every living thing. AMEN.
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May 7th, 2010
Jesus Gives Mercy By Max Lucado
“Today you will be with me in Paradise.” Luke 23:43
A condemned criminal was sent to his death by his country. In his final moments, he asked for mercy. Had he asked for mercy from the people, it would have been denied . . . But it wasn’t to these he turned for grace. He turned instead to the bloodied form of the One who hung on the cross next to his and pleaded, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” And Jesus answered by saying, “I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in Paradise.”
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May 8-9th, 2010
A Praying Mom by Charles Stanley
1 Samuel 2:1-10
Hannah experienced great sorrow prior to the birth of her son Samuel. Through that difficult time, however, she demonstrated a strong love for God and a dependence on Him through prayer.
Samuel had a mother who loved the Lord deeply. In fact, Hannah saw herself as God's handmaiden, whose life was in service to Him (1 Sam. 1:11). Even when her misery was overwhelming, she acknowledged how important He was to her, and she modeled a godly lifestyle.
We are commanded to love the Lord with our whole heart, soul, mind, and strength (Mark 12:30) and to give Him first place in our lives (Deut. 5:7). If we love God, we will make sure our children know about Him and understand the importance of a relationship with Him through Christ. Our lives, though flawed, will reveal the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.
Samuel was blessed because Hannah was a woman of prayer. Her first recorded petition stemmed from misery, while the second came from a heart rejoicing over the Lord's answer to her cries. A praying mother gives high priority to bringing family concerns before God. I remember my mom kneeling with me by my bed to pray. I can still recall the phrases she used and the things she talked over with Him.
Children need committed parents who 1) demonstrate love toward both the family and God, and 2) help them experience the power and joy of prayer (James 5:16 niv). Even one parent can make a powerful difference when Christ is the center of the home. I know my mom did.
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God's insight to me:
As I read this line from Charles Stanley's devotional what stood out was two words, "to seek", "It is possible for believers to seek victory over life's Goliaths with wrong motives." We as believers can seek all we want, but if it is not for God's glory we will be doing a lot of seeking and waiting. Also how many times have you tried to bargain with God? I have and it doesn't work. Why, because it is for ourselves and not for Him!
What Max Lucado wrote in his 4/29 devotional hits right on the mark. I have found in this worldly life, family, friends, co-workers and yes, even church family will let you down or turn away now and then. But not God! He has never left me nor forsaked me. Thank You, Dear Father!!!
A. B. Simpson writes about a "Love believeth all things." In the last paragraph he writes the words, "mind and heart of Christ". My friends, that is what is being called Christ-like. As I strive each day for that, I find life more fullfilling and understandable. All because of Him!
In the Streams from the Desert devotional I loved the written words, "an echo from the throne and a whisper from the heart of God." As Christians aren't you excited that we have our prayers answered that way? I am. Daily I tell people, "Most people do not understand just how blessed I am." My friends, constantly with my walk with Christ, He is whispering to my heart. Do I deserve it? Not at all, but by His Grace and love He claimed and forgave me. Thank You Jesus!
As I read Adrian Rogers devotional about your Bible coming alive, I am constantly working on that. I remember last week my dog was having some problems. He wasn't sleeping which meant I wasn't sleeping. Being very attached to my little furry friend, I was worried about his well being. The Lord spoke to my heart and said, "Go to my Word!" I picked up my Bible and opened it to Psalm 1:1-2. It begins "Blessed is the man", God told me not to worry it will be alright for as I read the remainder of the verse, who has not walked in the counsel of the ungodly, and has not stood in the way of sinners, and has not sat in the seat of the scornful. Psalm 1:2 But his delight is only in the Law of Jehovah; and in His Law he meditates day and night. Praise God!
In the Mighty Forest devotional by Vonette Bright it speaks of the Church. As our Pastor has stated several times, "we are not in this alone!" We are the Body of Christ. We are here to fulfill His purpose for us and bring glory to the Father. I can only speak for myself for I know my life became more fruitful once I got my eyes off myself and on to others. I will always remember the phrase, "I cried because I had no shoes, until I saw someone who had no feet!"
Adrian Rogers wrote, "God stepped from behind the curtain of nowhere and stood upon the platform of nothing and spoke a world into existence." If you can grasp that then you can understand what I tell the shut-ins at the various nursing homes, "If God be for us, who can be against us?" Read Mr. Roger's last for sentences and as a believer what are you worried about? It's about Him, not us!!! Just give Him thanks for choosing us, way before we chose Him. Have you?
This is a good time to follow with Charles Spurgeon's devotional. He writes "If God be your God, and Christ your Christ, the Lord has a special, peculiar favour to you; you are the object of his choice, accepted in his beloved Son." I say Amen to that!!!
As I read F. B. Meyers devotional the 23rd Psalm verse 1 came to mind, "The Lord is my shepherd I shall not want". My friends, with Him I have no wants.
Max Lucado's devotional about mercy brought to my mind the thought of this criminal that was hanging on a cross next to Jesus, Did he hear about Him before he was crucified for his crime? It was in his final moments on this earth that he finally understood who Jesus was. Do you understand? If you are not sure ask Jesus now to make Himself real to you. Your life will never be the same. Ask Jesus into your heart and you also will be in Paradise.
How fitting that this last devotional by Charles Stanley is about mom's! I am typing this on the morning of Mother's Day. Our Pastor has often spoke of his grandmother and how she would pray everyday, for everyone. Yep, everyone! A long prayer that must have been. But what an impact it made on him. I believe it was before he was a Christian, but his grandmother didn't wait for that. She knew the importance of prayer, like so many other mom's do! This being Mother's Day I want to close with a poem I wrote for my mom, after she had passed on. Oh, if only I could of read it to her before she went to her heavenly home. But I know she has heard me recite it many times, with Jesus at her side.
To My Mother
My mother was a special person,
who always gave from the heart.
She never asked for anything
even the day we had to part.
I always felt special when near her
for she always heard my cry.
And when I felt discouraged,
I had to only look in her eyes.
They had a way of saying
without me asking why
life is always worth living,
never give up and always try.
Besides being my mother
she was also my best friend.
My love for her is eternal
and I pray we'll meet again.
All my love,
Your son Ed
From God's heart, to mine, to yours,
Ed Shagott
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April 28th, 2010
The Importance of Right Motives Dr. Charles Stanley
1 Samuel 17:20-40
David found King Saul's hefty reward for Goliath's defeat interesting—in fact, he asked to have it repeated twice (vv. 26, 30). Money, freedom, and a pretty girl would make almost any teenage boy take notice! However, though David was young, he was not foolhardy. The reward was a nice perk, but it wasn't the young shepherd's motivation.
David's reason for standing against Goliath was to serve the Lord. The boy openly expressed his disdain for the giant: "For who is this uncircumcised Philistine, that he should taunt the armies of the living God?" (1 Sam. 17:26). Challenging the chosen nation, Israel, was the same as defying the Lord Himself. David was prepared to defend Yahweh's holy name and His people, even against this fearsome warrior. A right and holy motive gives a person confidence to obey God, even if doing so defies human wisdom.
It is possible for believers to seek victory over life's Goliaths with wrong motives. A lot of reasons that sound good are actually selfish. I'm tired of being in this mess. Or Lord, I can't run away, so You'll have to remove this problem. Some people try to bargain their way out of tight spots: If I had more money, then I'd give more to the church. Those promises are rarely fulfilled.
The right motive for facing a problem is a desire to follow, serve, and honor God, no matter what. Life's Goliaths do not just tax our comfort or wellbeing; these challenges can impede our obedient walk with the Lord. He will give victory to those who stand strong in His name.
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April 29th, 2010
God is for You By Max Lucado
“God is the strength of my heart.” Psalm 73:26, NKJV
God is for you. Turn to the sidelines; that’s God cheering your run. Look past the finish line; that’s God applauding your steps. Listen for Him in the bleachers, shouting your name. Too tired to continue? He’ll carry you. Too discouraged to fight? He’s picking you up. God is for you.
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April 30th, 2010
"Love believeth all things" (I. Cor. xiii. 7). by A. B. Simpson
Beautiful is the expression in the Book of Isaiah which reflects with exceeding sweetness the love of our dear Lord. He said, "They are My people, children that will not lie; so He was their Saviour." They did lie, but He would not believe it. At least He speaks as if He would not believe it in the greatness of His love, because they were His people.
He has not seen iniquity in Jacob nor perversity in Israel. There is plenty of it to see, and the devil sees it all, and a good many people are only too glad to see it; but the dear Father will not see it. He covers it with His love and the precious blood of His dear atoning Son. Such a wonderful love ought surely to make us gentler to others, and more anxious to cause our Father less need to hide His loving eyes from our imperfections and faults.
If we have the mind and heart of Christ, we shall clothe even the world with those graces which faith can claim for them, and try our best to count them as if they were real, and by love and prayer we shall at length make them real. "Love believeth all things."
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May 1st, 2010
What Cannot Be Uttered from Mrs. Charles Cowman Devotional - Streams in the Desert
"Likewise also the Spirit helpeth our infirmities; for we know not what to pray for as we ought; but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God" (Rom. 8:26, 27).
This is the deep mystery of prayer. This is the delicate divine mechanism which words cannot interpret, and which theology cannot explain, but which the humblest believer knows even when he does not understand.
Oh, the burdens that we love to bear and cannot understand! Oh, the inarticulate out-reachings of our hearts for things we cannot comprehend! And yet we know they are an echo from the throne and a whisper from the heart of God. It is often a groan rather than a song, a burden rather than a buoyant wing. But it is a blessed burden, and it is a groan whose undertone is praise and unutterable joy. It is "a groaning which cannot be uttered." We could not ourselves express it always, and sometimes we do not understand any more than that God is praying in us, for something that needs His touch and that He understands.
And so we can just pour out the fullness of our heart, the burden of our spirit, the sorrow that crushes us, and know that He hears, He loves, He understands, He receives; and He separates from our prayer all that is imperfect, ignorant and wrong, and presents the rest, with the incense of the great High Priest, before the throne on high; and our prayer is heard, accepted and answered in His name. --A. B. Simpson
It is not necessary to be always speaking to God or always hearing from God, to have communion with Him; there is an inarticulate fellowship more sweet than words. The little child can sit all day long beside its busy mother and, although few words are spoken on either side, and both are busy, the one at his absorbing play, the other at her engrossing work, yet both are in perfect fellowship. He knows that she is there, and she knows that he is all right. So the saint and the Saviour can go on for hours in the silent fellowship of love, and he be busy about the most common things, and yet conscious that every little thing he does is touched with the complexion of His presence, and the sense of His approval and blessing.
And then, when pressed with burdens and troubles too complicated to put into words and too mysterious to tell or understand, how sweet it is to fall back into His blessed arms, and just sob out the sorrow that we cannot speak! --Selected
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May 2nd, 2010
Making Your Bible Come Alive by Adrian Rogers
"Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." 2 Timothy 2:15
Why is it that sometimes when we read the Bible we leave our common sense at the door? You don't just pick up a book, open it at random, and start reading in the middle of a paragraph. The book wouldn't make any sense.
In order to understand and get the full appreciation for the book, we read it sequentially and in paragraphs or units.
When you read the Bible, read for quality not quantity. Don't see how much of the Bible you can read. See how much of the Bible you can assimilate and apply! Maybe what you need to do is spend a week studying one verse.
In your Bible reading today, stop and ask yourself:
"What is God telling ME?"
Not "what does this say?"
But "what is God saying to me?"
Then seek to put that into practice today.
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May 3rd, 2010
Mighty Forest by Vonette Bright
“Carry each others burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” Galatians 6:2 (NIV)
The huge Sequoia trees of California tower as much as 300 feet above ground.
Some were alive when Jesus walked on the earth.
Strangely, these massive giants have unusually shallow root systems.
But you won’t find these redwoods standing alone.
They grow in clusters because high winds would otherwise quickly uproot them.
Their intertwining roots provide support against the storms.
Friend, in this world, you can expect the storms of life.
But as the Church, the Body of Christ, we must support one another through tough times.
Don’t be too proud to admit your need.
And when you try to go it alone, you are in the greatest danger of falling.
Yes, friend, the Church is a mighty forest only when you assist others through the storms.
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May 4th, 2010
God's Omnipotence in Creation by Adrian Rogers
"In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth." Genesis 1:1
An eloquent preacher said, "God stepped from behind the curtain of nowhere and stood upon the platform of nothing and spoke a world into existence." God is the creator of all that your hand can touch, your eye can see, your ears can hear, and your nose can smell. If you see a watch, I hope you assume there's a watchmaker. And if you see the precise atomic flux of the universe, I hope you don't believe that happened by chance. The evolutionists believe that if you take billions of years and add time plus chance, that you can turn frogs into princes. In school they call that fairy tales. In the laboratory they call it science.
God spoke your life into existence. His Word sustains your breath. His Word can silence your breath. Thank Him for your life today!
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May 5th, 2010
A devotional by Charles Spurgeon
“I will be their God, and they shall be my people.”
- 2Co_6:16
What a sweet title: “My people!” What a cheering revelation: “Their God!” How much of meaning is couched in those two words, “My people!” Here is speciality. The whole world is God’s; the heaven, even the heaven of heavens is the Lord’s, and he reigneth among the children of men; but of those whom he hath chosen, whom he hath purchased to himself, he saith what he saith not of others-”My people.” In this word there is the idea of proprietorship. In a special manner the “Lord’s portion is his people; Jacob is the lot of his inheritance.” All the nations upon earth are his; the whole world is in his power; yet are his people, his chosen, more especially his possession; for he has done more for them than others; he has bought them with his blood; he has brought them nigh to himself; he has set his great heart upon them; he has loved them with an everlasting love, a love which many waters cannot quench, and which the revolutions of time shall never suffice in the least degree to diminish. Dear friends, can you, by faith, see yourselves in that number? Can you look up to heaven and say, “My Lord and my God: mine by that sweet relationship which entitles me to call thee Father; mine by that hallowed fellowship which I delight to hold with thee when thou art pleased to manifest thyself unto me as thou dost not unto the world?” Canst thou read the Book of Inspiration, and find there the indentures of thy salvation? Canst thou read thy title writ in precious blood? Canst thou, by humble faith, lay hold of Jesus’ garments, and say, “My Christ”? If thou canst, then God saith of thee, and of others like thee, “My people;” for, if God be your God, and Christ your Christ, the Lord has a special, peculiar favour to you; you are the object of his choice, accepted in his beloved Son.
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May 6th, 2010
GOD'S PROVISION by F. B. Meyer
"Give us this day our daily bread."-- Mat_6:11.
IF YOU want daily bread, and would pray for it aright, you must ask as a child; and you must put first, before your own satisfaction, the Hallowing of God's Name, and the doing of His Will. Implicitly you suggest that if He gives you bread, you will use the strength it gives for His service.
Let us ever think of God as the bountiful and generous Giver. Too often He has been described as hard and austere, and as a result, men dread God, and only think of Him when they have done wrong. But we should describe Him as the All-Giver, who gives all things to all with the most royal generosity. He gives sunbeams and dewdrops, showers and rainbows, grace and glory, His beloved Son and His Spirit, human love and friendship, the daily spreading of our table, the provision of all that we need for life and godliness. Whether we wake or sleep, whether we are evil or good, whether we are pleasing to Him or not; to those who forget and blaspheme Him equally as to the saints and martyrs of the Church, God gives with both hands, pressed down and running over. We cannot buy, we do not merit, we cannot claim, but we may rely on Him to give. God is Love; and Love cannot refrain from giving, or it ceases to be Love.
Yet how low God stoops! He is so great, that His greatness is unsearchable. He dwells in the high and lofty place. His sun is ninety-seven millions of miles away from our earth; He has filled the heavens with countless constellations, for each of which He has a name. He puts the Himalaya into a scale, and the islands are as dust in His balances; but Jesus has taught us to say, "Our Father, give us bread!" When we get troubled about the immensity of heaven and the distances of the universe, let us come back to the discourse, of which this prayer is part, and which tells us that the great God thinks about the clothing of the lilies, the down on a butterfly's wings, the food of the young lions in the forest, the store of acorns that squirrels accumulate for their provision. It is wonderful to remember that from the first days of man's sojourn on earth, our Father has been laying up stores for us. Though we may be among the youngest children of Time, we come to a table as richly plenished and provided as those who first tasted of His bounty. "Fear not, it is your Father's good pleasure to give."
PRAYER
Heavenly Father, let me not be anxious about to-morrow's provision or path, but trust Thee to provide and lead for to-day. Open Thine hand, and satisfy the desire of every living thing. AMEN.
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May 7th, 2010
Jesus Gives Mercy By Max Lucado
“Today you will be with me in Paradise.” Luke 23:43
A condemned criminal was sent to his death by his country. In his final moments, he asked for mercy. Had he asked for mercy from the people, it would have been denied . . . But it wasn’t to these he turned for grace. He turned instead to the bloodied form of the One who hung on the cross next to his and pleaded, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” And Jesus answered by saying, “I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in Paradise.”
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May 8-9th, 2010
A Praying Mom by Charles Stanley
1 Samuel 2:1-10
Hannah experienced great sorrow prior to the birth of her son Samuel. Through that difficult time, however, she demonstrated a strong love for God and a dependence on Him through prayer.
Samuel had a mother who loved the Lord deeply. In fact, Hannah saw herself as God's handmaiden, whose life was in service to Him (1 Sam. 1:11). Even when her misery was overwhelming, she acknowledged how important He was to her, and she modeled a godly lifestyle.
We are commanded to love the Lord with our whole heart, soul, mind, and strength (Mark 12:30) and to give Him first place in our lives (Deut. 5:7). If we love God, we will make sure our children know about Him and understand the importance of a relationship with Him through Christ. Our lives, though flawed, will reveal the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.
Samuel was blessed because Hannah was a woman of prayer. Her first recorded petition stemmed from misery, while the second came from a heart rejoicing over the Lord's answer to her cries. A praying mother gives high priority to bringing family concerns before God. I remember my mom kneeling with me by my bed to pray. I can still recall the phrases she used and the things she talked over with Him.
Children need committed parents who 1) demonstrate love toward both the family and God, and 2) help them experience the power and joy of prayer (James 5:16 niv). Even one parent can make a powerful difference when Christ is the center of the home. I know my mom did.
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