SCRIPTURE
Titus 2:7 in all things show yourself to be an example of good deeds, with purity in doctrine, dignified, 8 sound in speech which is beyond reproach, so that the opponent will be put to shame, having nothing bad to say about us. NAS
OBSERVATION
Do I provide an example of good deeds for others to benefit from? That's the question I had to ask myself when I read these verses. We are reminded in this book that God has designed us to affect others so we dare not live our lives as if we are on an island - unattached to people. The way we live our lives can be a positive influence if we live like Christ and seek to be and example. One person said that everyone is an example: some show us what to do and others what not to do. Which one are you? Paul tells us to be an example in the positive sense.
When I think of the term ‘example’ I am reminded of Baskin Robbins. Every time I visit that establishment, I am asked if I would like to ‘sample’ something. A ‘sample’ gives a taste of what you will receive if you decide to purchase the specific item. In similar fashion: to be an’ example’ shows people what will happen if they choose to follow. When you do good deeds for the right reasons, at the right time and in a right way, God can work through you and lead others to fruitfulness
APPLICATION
I really want these two verses to become a reality in my life. How about you?
May we not succumb to the old saying: Do as I say and not as I do - If we practice what we preach, no one will be able to point a finger at us or have anything negative to say. If we provide a positive example for others to follow, our opponent will experience defeat! That’s enough motivation for me!
PRAYER
O Lord show us how to live in such a way that will honor you and reveal your glory to others.
Monday, June 30, 2008
Thursday, June 26, 2008
SCRIPTURE
Jonah 4:11
But Nineveh has more than a hundred and twenty thousand people who cannot tell their right hand from their left, and many cattle as well. Should I not be concerned about that great city?"
OBSERVATION
God was concerned about Nineveh. Why? They were not part of Israel and they did not follow God's ways. At first it seems strange that God would send a prophet to them when they are so far from the focus of the Old Testament. And yet, God says, He is concerned because of the souls that are there -- He even says that He is concerned about the cattle.
Sometimes the picture of God that we are stuck with is a picture of a judging, angry God. And yet here we see that God's first response to Nineveh is to give it a second chance! I am reminded of the New Testament when Jesus speaks about the one lost sheep in Matthew 18. He is more concerned about the lost then He is about the found!
APPLICATION
My heart needs to be softened to be like God's heart. I walk around judging people and assuming the worst. He walks around figuring out ways to SAVE people! Mercy and compassion must characterize my life, not just be fancy ideas.
PRAYER
Lord, give me your eyes and your heart for the lost of the world. Your compassion is great, help me to be someone who shares that compassion and pursues the one lost with great energy. Amen.
Jonah 4:11
But Nineveh has more than a hundred and twenty thousand people who cannot tell their right hand from their left, and many cattle as well. Should I not be concerned about that great city?"
OBSERVATION
God was concerned about Nineveh. Why? They were not part of Israel and they did not follow God's ways. At first it seems strange that God would send a prophet to them when they are so far from the focus of the Old Testament. And yet, God says, He is concerned because of the souls that are there -- He even says that He is concerned about the cattle.
Sometimes the picture of God that we are stuck with is a picture of a judging, angry God. And yet here we see that God's first response to Nineveh is to give it a second chance! I am reminded of the New Testament when Jesus speaks about the one lost sheep in Matthew 18. He is more concerned about the lost then He is about the found!
APPLICATION
My heart needs to be softened to be like God's heart. I walk around judging people and assuming the worst. He walks around figuring out ways to SAVE people! Mercy and compassion must characterize my life, not just be fancy ideas.
PRAYER
Lord, give me your eyes and your heart for the lost of the world. Your compassion is great, help me to be someone who shares that compassion and pursues the one lost with great energy. Amen.
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Give It Away, But Guard It With Your Life!
SCRIPTURE
(IITim. 1:13&14) "Retain the standard of sound words which you have heard from me, in the faith and love which are in Christ Jesus. Guard, through the Holy Spirit who dwells in us, the treasure which has been entrusted to you."
OBSERVATION
To retain something is to work hard at maintaining possession of it. Paul instructs Timothy to work hard at maintaining possession of sound doctrine or the teachings he has given him. He says to guard it as a valuable treasure entrusted to him. And yet in the letter to the church at Phillipi, Paul says he was poured out as an offering in service of his faith. Should we guard the treasure or give it away?
APPLICATION
What looks like it could be a dichotomy is really an instruction to maintain the integrity of the teachings of Christ. Paul actually wants the believer to give the hope that lies within them away to a sinful or needy world. This treasure is unending and transforming. If we live to give this treasure, we will see the kingdom of God manifest right before our eyes.
PRAYER
Lord, I want to maintain the holiness of Your Word, and I want to pour it out on a contaminated world and see your transforming power.
(IITim. 1:13&14) "Retain the standard of sound words which you have heard from me, in the faith and love which are in Christ Jesus. Guard, through the Holy Spirit who dwells in us, the treasure which has been entrusted to you."
OBSERVATION
To retain something is to work hard at maintaining possession of it. Paul instructs Timothy to work hard at maintaining possession of sound doctrine or the teachings he has given him. He says to guard it as a valuable treasure entrusted to him. And yet in the letter to the church at Phillipi, Paul says he was poured out as an offering in service of his faith. Should we guard the treasure or give it away?
APPLICATION
What looks like it could be a dichotomy is really an instruction to maintain the integrity of the teachings of Christ. Paul actually wants the believer to give the hope that lies within them away to a sinful or needy world. This treasure is unending and transforming. If we live to give this treasure, we will see the kingdom of God manifest right before our eyes.
PRAYER
Lord, I want to maintain the holiness of Your Word, and I want to pour it out on a contaminated world and see your transforming power.
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
I Just Want to be Happy!
SCRIPTURE
(I Tim. 6:6&9) "But godliness actually is a means of great gain, when accompanied by contentment. . . But those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a snare and many foolish and harmful desires which plunge men into ruin and destruction."
OBSERVATION
Paul is instructing the younger Timothy on the destructive vises that tend to tempt most people and lead them astray. He wants Timothy to instruct the believers that an attitude of contentment paired with God honoring actions leads to true fulfillment in life.
APPLICATION
How often do marriages end because one of the spouses is not "happy" and they believe God wants them to be "happy." They deserve to be "happy." When asked for specifics of what happiness is, these discontent individuals have no idea of what they are running after. They are just looking for a feeling. When feelings dictate our choices destruction is just around the corner. Seek to live in a godly manner and chose to be content in the provisions and direction of the Lord.
PRAYER
Lord, by faith I believe that You will provide all my needs. I will be content with Your plans and direction for my life. Give me Your discernment to know your direction and the specifics of what it means to be trully "happy."
(I Tim. 6:6&9) "But godliness actually is a means of great gain, when accompanied by contentment. . . But those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a snare and many foolish and harmful desires which plunge men into ruin and destruction."
OBSERVATION
Paul is instructing the younger Timothy on the destructive vises that tend to tempt most people and lead them astray. He wants Timothy to instruct the believers that an attitude of contentment paired with God honoring actions leads to true fulfillment in life.
APPLICATION
How often do marriages end because one of the spouses is not "happy" and they believe God wants them to be "happy." They deserve to be "happy." When asked for specifics of what happiness is, these discontent individuals have no idea of what they are running after. They are just looking for a feeling. When feelings dictate our choices destruction is just around the corner. Seek to live in a godly manner and chose to be content in the provisions and direction of the Lord.
PRAYER
Lord, by faith I believe that You will provide all my needs. I will be content with Your plans and direction for my life. Give me Your discernment to know your direction and the specifics of what it means to be trully "happy."
Friday, June 20, 2008
It's not really stealing!
SCRIPTURE
(IIKings 5:20) "But Gehazi, the servant of Elisha the man of God, thought, 'behold, my master has spared this Naaman the Aramean, by not receiving from his hands what he brought. As the Lord lives, I will run after him and take something from him.'"
OBSERVATION
Naaman was the commander of an army. He had contracted leprosy and sought the help of the prophet Elisha. Following the instructions from Elisha to dip himself 7 times in the Jordan River, Naaman was healed. In gratitude the leader wanted to reward Elisha, but he refused any payment. Elisha's servant Gehazi became greedy and sought the reward for himself.
APPLICATION
Proverbs 10:9 says, "He who walks in integrity walks securely, but he who perverts his ways will be found out." The person who says, "if nobody else claims it, then it is mine" will soon come to ruin. The person with integrity will not seek something that doesn't belong to them, because in the broader scope of life, it is stealing.
PRAYER
Lord, I rejoice that you always provide more than enough. Let me always be a man of integrity.
(IIKings 5:20) "But Gehazi, the servant of Elisha the man of God, thought, 'behold, my master has spared this Naaman the Aramean, by not receiving from his hands what he brought. As the Lord lives, I will run after him and take something from him.'"
OBSERVATION
Naaman was the commander of an army. He had contracted leprosy and sought the help of the prophet Elisha. Following the instructions from Elisha to dip himself 7 times in the Jordan River, Naaman was healed. In gratitude the leader wanted to reward Elisha, but he refused any payment. Elisha's servant Gehazi became greedy and sought the reward for himself.
APPLICATION
Proverbs 10:9 says, "He who walks in integrity walks securely, but he who perverts his ways will be found out." The person who says, "if nobody else claims it, then it is mine" will soon come to ruin. The person with integrity will not seek something that doesn't belong to them, because in the broader scope of life, it is stealing.
PRAYER
Lord, I rejoice that you always provide more than enough. Let me always be a man of integrity.
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
Nobody's gonna tell me what I can and can't say!
SCRIPTURE
(Col. 4:6) "Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned, as it were, with salt, so that you may know how you should respond to each person."
OBSERVATION
Paul is aware of the struggles of the church in Colossae and the potential of the tongue to build up or tear down. Paul is outlining overt signs of holiness in public life, and the tongue, or the way we speak to others, is an indicator of our heart's condition. Proverbs 15:4 says, "a soothing tongue is a tree of life, but perversion in it crushes the spirit."
APPLICATION
People often think that because I live in a free country with freedom of speech, I have the right to say whatever I want. In the kingdom of God we have a responsibility to guard what we say. Hebrews 10:24 says that we should consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds. When a person is trully surrendered to the lordship of Christ, they will choose their words wisely.
PRAYER
Lord, help me to ever be mindful of the power you have given me in the words I speak. Let my words bring health and healing because they are tempered by Your love.
(Col. 4:6) "Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned, as it were, with salt, so that you may know how you should respond to each person."
OBSERVATION
Paul is aware of the struggles of the church in Colossae and the potential of the tongue to build up or tear down. Paul is outlining overt signs of holiness in public life, and the tongue, or the way we speak to others, is an indicator of our heart's condition. Proverbs 15:4 says, "a soothing tongue is a tree of life, but perversion in it crushes the spirit."
APPLICATION
People often think that because I live in a free country with freedom of speech, I have the right to say whatever I want. In the kingdom of God we have a responsibility to guard what we say. Hebrews 10:24 says that we should consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds. When a person is trully surrendered to the lordship of Christ, they will choose their words wisely.
PRAYER
Lord, help me to ever be mindful of the power you have given me in the words I speak. Let my words bring health and healing because they are tempered by Your love.
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
What did you put on this morning?
SCRIPTURE
(Col. 3:14&15) "And beyond all these things put on love, which is the perfect bond of unity. And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body; and be thankful."
OBSERVATION
Paul is giving instructions as to what is fitting behavior for the believer. There should be an observable difference between the lifestyle of the believer and the non-believer. That difference will come down to what you chose to put on each day: love and peace, or self-centeredness and resentment or fear.
APPLICATION
Paul tells me to put on love, "but he doesn't know the injustices of my life situation!" We often feel justified in our emotional reactions, but Paul is giving advice on how to create unity and glorify God, not achieve our perceived fairness. The emotional atmosphere of your home is determined by what you chose to put on.
PRAYER
Lord, I confess there are times when I want my way and it creates disunity. I ask that today Your love would rule in my heart and create an environment that glorifies You. I put on Your love and Peace.
(Col. 3:14&15) "And beyond all these things put on love, which is the perfect bond of unity. And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body; and be thankful."
OBSERVATION
Paul is giving instructions as to what is fitting behavior for the believer. There should be an observable difference between the lifestyle of the believer and the non-believer. That difference will come down to what you chose to put on each day: love and peace, or self-centeredness and resentment or fear.
APPLICATION
Paul tells me to put on love, "but he doesn't know the injustices of my life situation!" We often feel justified in our emotional reactions, but Paul is giving advice on how to create unity and glorify God, not achieve our perceived fairness. The emotional atmosphere of your home is determined by what you chose to put on.
PRAYER
Lord, I confess there are times when I want my way and it creates disunity. I ask that today Your love would rule in my heart and create an environment that glorifies You. I put on Your love and Peace.
Sunday, June 8, 2008
Peace Talks Won't Work!
SCRIPTURE
(Colossians 1:12&20) "For it was the Father's good pleasure for all the fullness to dwell in Him, and through Him to reconcile all things to Himself, having made peace through the blood of His cross; through Him, I say, whether things on earth or things in heaven."
OBSERVATION
The ultimate goal and place of safety is being reconciled (made right) to a Holy God. In human history we have tried to earn, manipulate, and dominate or control others to gain security. The author of Colossians is identifying the one true way to peace and security: The blood of the Cross.
APPLICATION
In this day of international unrest and threat, we see world leaders meeting for peace talks. Their effectiveness is always short-lived and eventually broken. The only way to continual and eternal peace is still through the blood of the Cross. Peace talks won't work! Applying the redemptive blood of Jesus will!
PRAYER
Thank-you Lord for Your blood that was shed for me, and on my account. I will stand in Your redemptive peace.
By Pastor Roger Watson
(Colossians 1:12&20) "For it was the Father's good pleasure for all the fullness to dwell in Him, and through Him to reconcile all things to Himself, having made peace through the blood of His cross; through Him, I say, whether things on earth or things in heaven."
OBSERVATION
The ultimate goal and place of safety is being reconciled (made right) to a Holy God. In human history we have tried to earn, manipulate, and dominate or control others to gain security. The author of Colossians is identifying the one true way to peace and security: The blood of the Cross.
APPLICATION
In this day of international unrest and threat, we see world leaders meeting for peace talks. Their effectiveness is always short-lived and eventually broken. The only way to continual and eternal peace is still through the blood of the Cross. Peace talks won't work! Applying the redemptive blood of Jesus will!
PRAYER
Thank-you Lord for Your blood that was shed for me, and on my account. I will stand in Your redemptive peace.
By Pastor Roger Watson
Take two and Call Me in the Morning!
SCRIPTURE
(Philippians 4:6&7) "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, shall guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."
OBSERVATION
Philippi was a military city. More than likely security and defensive stratagies influenced the thoughts of the residents. Paul is communicating the peace of God is the antidote to anxiety and is available to those who learn the secret of turning fears into prayers and worries into thanksgiving for His provisions.
APPLICATION
Societal compromise leads to spiritual consequences, but the prayer of a righteous man can accomplish great things, and a thankful heart will empower God's peace that passes all understanding. If you are struggling with fear or anxiety, take two (prayer & thanksgiving), and call me in the morning.
PRAYER
Lord, when the economy of this world is shaken, help me always to recall Your peace is available to all who ask and rejoice.
By Pastor Roger Watson
(Philippians 4:6&7) "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, shall guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."
OBSERVATION
Philippi was a military city. More than likely security and defensive stratagies influenced the thoughts of the residents. Paul is communicating the peace of God is the antidote to anxiety and is available to those who learn the secret of turning fears into prayers and worries into thanksgiving for His provisions.
APPLICATION
Societal compromise leads to spiritual consequences, but the prayer of a righteous man can accomplish great things, and a thankful heart will empower God's peace that passes all understanding. If you are struggling with fear or anxiety, take two (prayer & thanksgiving), and call me in the morning.
PRAYER
Lord, when the economy of this world is shaken, help me always to recall Your peace is available to all who ask and rejoice.
By Pastor Roger Watson
What are You Running Towards?
SCRIPTURE
(Philippians 3:13&14) "Brethren, I do not regard myself as having laid hold of it yet; but one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus."
OBSERVATION
Paul has just given a warning to the Philippian church about putting confidence in the things they have, or he (Paul) has, achieved. Things achieved on our own efforts amount to rubbish when compared to eternity. He tells them to forget the past and run toward the calling in Christ.
APPLICATION
No matter how big your house is, how much money you have amassed, or how influential your job may be, in the end it amounts to nothing. That which will stand the test of eternity is found only in the call of Christ on your life. What are you running towards: a secure retirement, or a secure eternity. Don't put your faith in money or position.
PRAYER
Jesus, I want to see Your image on all that I pursue in life. Let Your love shine through me.
By Pastor Roger Watson
(Philippians 3:13&14) "Brethren, I do not regard myself as having laid hold of it yet; but one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus."
OBSERVATION
Paul has just given a warning to the Philippian church about putting confidence in the things they have, or he (Paul) has, achieved. Things achieved on our own efforts amount to rubbish when compared to eternity. He tells them to forget the past and run toward the calling in Christ.
APPLICATION
No matter how big your house is, how much money you have amassed, or how influential your job may be, in the end it amounts to nothing. That which will stand the test of eternity is found only in the call of Christ on your life. What are you running towards: a secure retirement, or a secure eternity. Don't put your faith in money or position.
PRAYER
Jesus, I want to see Your image on all that I pursue in life. Let Your love shine through me.
By Pastor Roger Watson
What are you going to do for Me?
SCRIPTURE
(Philippians 2:3&4) "Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind let each of you regard one another as more important than himself; do not merely look out for you own personal interests, but also for the interests of others."
OBSERVATION
This prison letter is written with a theme of joy and unity. Paul is telling his Christian readers that you cannot have unity if you are only thinking of yourself. Self-focus leads to eventual situational frustration, and frustration is a growing cancer to joy. Paul's readers will not have joy if they focus on what other's should be doing to make their life better.
APPLICATION
True joy and fulfillment comes from serving others. When family members focus on how unfair a situation is, or how they didn't get what they wanted, an environment of discontentment soon follows. The church family should also actively seek ways to give rather than get.
PRAYER
Jesus, help me always to remember how You humbled Yourself, and gave Your all for my eternal well-being.
By Pastor Roger Watson
(Philippians 2:3&4) "Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind let each of you regard one another as more important than himself; do not merely look out for you own personal interests, but also for the interests of others."
OBSERVATION
This prison letter is written with a theme of joy and unity. Paul is telling his Christian readers that you cannot have unity if you are only thinking of yourself. Self-focus leads to eventual situational frustration, and frustration is a growing cancer to joy. Paul's readers will not have joy if they focus on what other's should be doing to make their life better.
APPLICATION
True joy and fulfillment comes from serving others. When family members focus on how unfair a situation is, or how they didn't get what they wanted, an environment of discontentment soon follows. The church family should also actively seek ways to give rather than get.
PRAYER
Jesus, help me always to remember how You humbled Yourself, and gave Your all for my eternal well-being.
By Pastor Roger Watson
Why should I Listen to a Convict?
SCRIPTURE
(Philippians 1:12&13) "Now I want you to know, brethren, that my circumstances have turned out for the greater progress of the gospel, so that my imprisonment in the cause of Christ has become well known throughout the whole praetorian guard and to everyone else."
OBSERVATION
At first glance, Paul's prison sentence may have seemed like a silencing factor, but the opposite was true. He had become so well known, and the authority or anointing with which he spoke was so evident, that his evangelistic message spread even further.
APPLICATION
It may seem at times that our living conditions are a sign of God's displeasure. The opposite may be true. When we respond to adverse situations with a motivation to glorify God, His redeeming message is witnessed by a broader audience, with a greater impact. This world is looking for the strength and power to face and overcome the negative environment they often find themselves in.
PRAYER
God, help me not to judge my spiritual authority by environmental trappings. I am always blessed when I worship You.
By Pastor Roger Watson
(Philippians 1:12&13) "Now I want you to know, brethren, that my circumstances have turned out for the greater progress of the gospel, so that my imprisonment in the cause of Christ has become well known throughout the whole praetorian guard and to everyone else."
OBSERVATION
At first glance, Paul's prison sentence may have seemed like a silencing factor, but the opposite was true. He had become so well known, and the authority or anointing with which he spoke was so evident, that his evangelistic message spread even further.
APPLICATION
It may seem at times that our living conditions are a sign of God's displeasure. The opposite may be true. When we respond to adverse situations with a motivation to glorify God, His redeeming message is witnessed by a broader audience, with a greater impact. This world is looking for the strength and power to face and overcome the negative environment they often find themselves in.
PRAYER
God, help me not to judge my spiritual authority by environmental trappings. I am always blessed when I worship You.
By Pastor Roger Watson
If You can't see it or measure it, does it exist?
SCRIPTURE
(Ephesians 6:11&12) "Put on the full armor of God, that you may be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places."
OBSERVATION
Paul is trying to make a distinction between tangible earthly powers, those you can see and physically fight, and spiritual forces, which are not seen with the naked eye but are the more serious and eternally damaging. He encourages his readers to recognize the schemes of this invisible foe, and fight him with spiritual weapons.
APPLICATION
Modern science demands that if we can't see something, and thus measure its effect, it doesn't exist. Paul is warning us to watch out, because this way of thinking will lead you astray and destroy your faith.
PRAYER
Lord, help me remember that physical validation has little bearing on spiritual forces, or where our true battle lies. You are my help and deliverer.
By Pastor Roger Watson
(Ephesians 6:11&12) "Put on the full armor of God, that you may be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places."
OBSERVATION
Paul is trying to make a distinction between tangible earthly powers, those you can see and physically fight, and spiritual forces, which are not seen with the naked eye but are the more serious and eternally damaging. He encourages his readers to recognize the schemes of this invisible foe, and fight him with spiritual weapons.
APPLICATION
Modern science demands that if we can't see something, and thus measure its effect, it doesn't exist. Paul is warning us to watch out, because this way of thinking will lead you astray and destroy your faith.
PRAYER
Lord, help me remember that physical validation has little bearing on spiritual forces, or where our true battle lies. You are my help and deliverer.
By Pastor Roger Watson
It doesn't matter, God will forgive
SCRIPTURE
Ephesians 5:5&6)"For this you know with certainty, that no immoral or impure person or covetous man, who is an idolater, has an inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God. Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience."
OBSERVATION
This letter to the church is one of Paul's prison epistles. He writes to a prosperous city and a blessed church from a position of confinement, about victorious living. Ephesus was a major city with great temptations to compromise a godly walk from heathenistic teachings and false worship. God will not allow shared allegiance.
APPLICATION
Contemporary society wants you to believe there is more than one way to God, and situational ethics is the standard setter for behavioral practices. God says he will punish disobedience, and condemn the one who serves another deity. He won't forgive the idolater.
PRAYER
Lord, always keep me mindful that idolatry is giving anything more importance than you. I worship You alone.
By Pastor Roger Watson
Ephesians 5:5&6)"For this you know with certainty, that no immoral or impure person or covetous man, who is an idolater, has an inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God. Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience."
OBSERVATION
This letter to the church is one of Paul's prison epistles. He writes to a prosperous city and a blessed church from a position of confinement, about victorious living. Ephesus was a major city with great temptations to compromise a godly walk from heathenistic teachings and false worship. God will not allow shared allegiance.
APPLICATION
Contemporary society wants you to believe there is more than one way to God, and situational ethics is the standard setter for behavioral practices. God says he will punish disobedience, and condemn the one who serves another deity. He won't forgive the idolater.
PRAYER
Lord, always keep me mindful that idolatry is giving anything more importance than you. I worship You alone.
By Pastor Roger Watson
Saturday, June 7, 2008
Objects of Wrath
SCRIPTURE
Ephesians 2:3 "All of us who lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our sinful nature and following its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature objects of wrath."
OBSERVATION
Paul is describing 'them' as the people who were still following Satan and/or his evil ways. But he acknowledges that we all were the same at one time - wallowing in a sinful nature. Namely, that we followed our desires and sinful thoughts. I can remember how that looked in my life. Thank God for His forgiveness!
What really caught my attention in this verse is the last sentence. What does 'objects of wrath' mean? As I looked further into the Word, I discovered that it is God's justifiable revulsion, not anger, toward what is unholy and opposite of His holy nature and will. It's a harsh phrase but certainly appropriate.
APPLICATION
I'd like to keep the phrase 'object of wrath' in the forefront of my mind to refer to anytime I'm tempted to do something displeasing to God. It gives me a tiny glimpse at just how pure and holy our Father is and what is expected of us - at least to the best of our human ability.
PRAYER
Father, forgive me each time I displease you. Let me not forget that holiness and purity are always my goals for the day. Thank you for your grace and mercy . . . and for the gentle reminders of Your word.
Ephesians 2:3 "All of us who lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our sinful nature and following its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature objects of wrath."
OBSERVATION
Paul is describing 'them' as the people who were still following Satan and/or his evil ways. But he acknowledges that we all were the same at one time - wallowing in a sinful nature. Namely, that we followed our desires and sinful thoughts. I can remember how that looked in my life. Thank God for His forgiveness!
What really caught my attention in this verse is the last sentence. What does 'objects of wrath' mean? As I looked further into the Word, I discovered that it is God's justifiable revulsion, not anger, toward what is unholy and opposite of His holy nature and will. It's a harsh phrase but certainly appropriate.
APPLICATION
I'd like to keep the phrase 'object of wrath' in the forefront of my mind to refer to anytime I'm tempted to do something displeasing to God. It gives me a tiny glimpse at just how pure and holy our Father is and what is expected of us - at least to the best of our human ability.
PRAYER
Father, forgive me each time I displease you. Let me not forget that holiness and purity are always my goals for the day. Thank you for your grace and mercy . . . and for the gentle reminders of Your word.
Thursday, June 5, 2008
Open the Eyes of my Heart
SCRIPTURE
Ephesians 1:18-20 "I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope of which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparable great power for us who believe. That power is like the working of his mighty strength, which he exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, . . . "
OBSERVATION
Here, Paul is encouraging the church to be fully aware and appreciative of what they have as Christians. The eyes of the heart means a deeper understanding and awareness. He's telling the church at Ephesus (and us) that the inheritance we receive from God is rich and comes from the great and mighty power of God. This power is so great that it defied the laws of nature in the raising of christ from the dead.
How often do we take our salvation and Christian hope and inheritance for granted? For instance, how blessed are we to know that we have so much more ahead of us than simply this life on earth? Not only in time, but also in the inconceivable glory and magnitude of an eternal life in heaven with an awesome and loving Father and Son. How much do we underestimate the power of that Father? How much do we take for granted our ability, right and honor to approach that Father in prayer with our troubles and our hearts desires and our praise?
APPLICATION
I need to dwell on these thoughts on a regular basis. Being a follower of the living God and His son Jesus is an honor not to be taken lightly. The God I serve is all powerful and loves me dearly and is always there for me. I am a small part of His glorious plan for mankind and should stand proudly as His representative to others.
PRAYER
Father, thank you! This passage has opened the eyes of my heart to the amazing love, grace and power you have bestowed upon me, my family and my loved ones! I am honored to serve and praise you.
Ephesians 1:18-20 "I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope of which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparable great power for us who believe. That power is like the working of his mighty strength, which he exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, . . . "
OBSERVATION
Here, Paul is encouraging the church to be fully aware and appreciative of what they have as Christians. The eyes of the heart means a deeper understanding and awareness. He's telling the church at Ephesus (and us) that the inheritance we receive from God is rich and comes from the great and mighty power of God. This power is so great that it defied the laws of nature in the raising of christ from the dead.
How often do we take our salvation and Christian hope and inheritance for granted? For instance, how blessed are we to know that we have so much more ahead of us than simply this life on earth? Not only in time, but also in the inconceivable glory and magnitude of an eternal life in heaven with an awesome and loving Father and Son. How much do we underestimate the power of that Father? How much do we take for granted our ability, right and honor to approach that Father in prayer with our troubles and our hearts desires and our praise?
APPLICATION
I need to dwell on these thoughts on a regular basis. Being a follower of the living God and His son Jesus is an honor not to be taken lightly. The God I serve is all powerful and loves me dearly and is always there for me. I am a small part of His glorious plan for mankind and should stand proudly as His representative to others.
PRAYER
Father, thank you! This passage has opened the eyes of my heart to the amazing love, grace and power you have bestowed upon me, my family and my loved ones! I am honored to serve and praise you.
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
Obstacles in Our Way
SCRIPTURE
Romans 16:17 "I urge you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and put obstacles in your way that are contrary to the teaching you have learned. Keep away from them."
OBSERVATION
The early church had growing pains and struggles. There was much to learn after Jesus came and went and Paul became a wise patriarch for them. His direct revelation from the Lord gave him an authority and boldness in carrying out his role. But, in his absence, some of the churches experienced division, contrary teachings, and other problems. Paul's letters to them attempted to help settle some of these issues in his absence.
APPLICATION
In this verse, he simply tells the church in Rome to stay away from the troublemakers who were disrupting what they were taught.
How many people or things become obstacles for us today? What is in our way that prevents us from serving the Lord as we should at all times? Are there people we should avoid who are a negative influence on our Christian lives? Are there places or events from which we should stay away? What is monopolizing our precious time, preventing us from doing what God wants us to do?
PRAYER
Lord, help me to see with Your eyes the things and people that are obstacles to my life with You. Let me carefully choose how I will spend my time each day to fulfill Your perfect will for my life.
Romans 16:17 "I urge you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and put obstacles in your way that are contrary to the teaching you have learned. Keep away from them."
OBSERVATION
The early church had growing pains and struggles. There was much to learn after Jesus came and went and Paul became a wise patriarch for them. His direct revelation from the Lord gave him an authority and boldness in carrying out his role. But, in his absence, some of the churches experienced division, contrary teachings, and other problems. Paul's letters to them attempted to help settle some of these issues in his absence.
APPLICATION
In this verse, he simply tells the church in Rome to stay away from the troublemakers who were disrupting what they were taught.
How many people or things become obstacles for us today? What is in our way that prevents us from serving the Lord as we should at all times? Are there people we should avoid who are a negative influence on our Christian lives? Are there places or events from which we should stay away? What is monopolizing our precious time, preventing us from doing what God wants us to do?
PRAYER
Lord, help me to see with Your eyes the things and people that are obstacles to my life with You. Let me carefully choose how I will spend my time each day to fulfill Your perfect will for my life.
Everything That Was Written
SCRIPTURE
Romans 15:4 "For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope."
OBSERVATION
In these chapters, Paul is writing to encourage the church in Rome who appear to be having issues regarding the differences among Christians - Jews and Gentiles. Paul instructs them to not judge or fight over such matters as circumcision or dietary laws, but instead to use Scripture as a source of encouragement and to endure all things.
APPLICATION
As I read this particular verse, I took it as more of a personal directive. That is, since Scripture was written to teach and encourage us, it is my "How To" book for life and living. I should become daily more familiar with it's contents to draw from as I go through my days. Verse 4 then ends with an added reminder of hope through our faith in Jesus. How can people endure adversities without that hope?
PRAYER
Lord, keep me ever mindful of my need for more and more knowledge of Your word. Encourage me to make it the #1 priority of my day. And thank you so much for our hope that is Jesus!
Romans 15:4 "For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope."
OBSERVATION
In these chapters, Paul is writing to encourage the church in Rome who appear to be having issues regarding the differences among Christians - Jews and Gentiles. Paul instructs them to not judge or fight over such matters as circumcision or dietary laws, but instead to use Scripture as a source of encouragement and to endure all things.
APPLICATION
As I read this particular verse, I took it as more of a personal directive. That is, since Scripture was written to teach and encourage us, it is my "How To" book for life and living. I should become daily more familiar with it's contents to draw from as I go through my days. Verse 4 then ends with an added reminder of hope through our faith in Jesus. How can people endure adversities without that hope?
PRAYER
Lord, keep me ever mindful of my need for more and more knowledge of Your word. Encourage me to make it the #1 priority of my day. And thank you so much for our hope that is Jesus!
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