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.
Saturday, June 7, 2008
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!
Friday, May 23, 2008
Searching for the Ark
SCRIPTURE 2 Chronicles 6:7-10
7 "My father David had it in his heart to build a temple for the Name of the LORD, the God of Israel. 8 But the LORD said to my father David, 'Because it was in your heart to build a temple for my Name, you did well to have this in your heart. 9 Nevertheless, you are not the one to build the temple, but your son, who is your own flesh and blood—he is the one who will build the temple for my Name.'
10 "The LORD has kept the promise he made. I have succeeded David my father and now I sit on the throne of Israel, just as the LORD promised, and I have built the temple for the Name of the LORD, the God of Israel. 11 There I have placed the ark, in which is the covenant of the LORD that he made with the people of Israel."
OBSERVATION
The Lord always keeps his promises! God explained to David that he would always have his presence with him. God has given us a promise in Hebrews 13:5 that he would never leave us or forsake us. That promise gives me peace and confidence knowing that whatever I do he still will love me and accept me. God wants to dwell in hearts. He does not want to live in an ark ( box that held his Spirit). Archaeologists study artifacts of the near and distant past to develop a picture of how people lived in earlier cultures and societies. In the first Indiana Jones movie, Mr. Jones searched for the Ark of the Covenant. His goal was to find the box that not only carried the Ten Commandments but also God's presence. Today we can find God's presence if we seek after him. God is no longer in a box but he wants to live in our heart. Psalms 119:11 states that if we hide his word (commandments) in our heart we will not sin against him. The incredible thing is you can not separate the two. Where ever God's word is you will find his presence.
APPLICATION
I believe that everyday we should be searching for you. I know you have showed yourself to me, as soon as I pick up the Bible and start to read your word I can sense your Spirit. I can hear what you are wanting to say to me. Thank you for not being far from me. I do not have to go looking in a cave or try to dig up some artifact to feel your presence. I can start every morning with coming into your presence with praise and worship.
PRAYER
Lord I pray that you will show yourself to me today. I want to be like David who was a man after your own heart. I want to be like Solomon he built a temple and worshiped you. In 1 Cor. 3:16 You have said that we are the Temple of your Holy Spirit. I pray that you will help me to live my life with honor and respect knowing that your Spirit resides within me. Teach me to honor your covenant and follow your commandments so that you will be honored through my life. I am so glad that you have given me your promises. Forgive me for not always measuring up to your word. I thank you for your promise that you will never to leave me.
7 "My father David had it in his heart to build a temple for the Name of the LORD, the God of Israel. 8 But the LORD said to my father David, 'Because it was in your heart to build a temple for my Name, you did well to have this in your heart. 9 Nevertheless, you are not the one to build the temple, but your son, who is your own flesh and blood—he is the one who will build the temple for my Name.'
10 "The LORD has kept the promise he made. I have succeeded David my father and now I sit on the throne of Israel, just as the LORD promised, and I have built the temple for the Name of the LORD, the God of Israel. 11 There I have placed the ark, in which is the covenant of the LORD that he made with the people of Israel."
OBSERVATION
The Lord always keeps his promises! God explained to David that he would always have his presence with him. God has given us a promise in Hebrews 13:5 that he would never leave us or forsake us. That promise gives me peace and confidence knowing that whatever I do he still will love me and accept me. God wants to dwell in hearts. He does not want to live in an ark ( box that held his Spirit). Archaeologists study artifacts of the near and distant past to develop a picture of how people lived in earlier cultures and societies. In the first Indiana Jones movie, Mr. Jones searched for the Ark of the Covenant. His goal was to find the box that not only carried the Ten Commandments but also God's presence. Today we can find God's presence if we seek after him. God is no longer in a box but he wants to live in our heart. Psalms 119:11 states that if we hide his word (commandments) in our heart we will not sin against him. The incredible thing is you can not separate the two. Where ever God's word is you will find his presence.
APPLICATION
I believe that everyday we should be searching for you. I know you have showed yourself to me, as soon as I pick up the Bible and start to read your word I can sense your Spirit. I can hear what you are wanting to say to me. Thank you for not being far from me. I do not have to go looking in a cave or try to dig up some artifact to feel your presence. I can start every morning with coming into your presence with praise and worship.
PRAYER
Lord I pray that you will show yourself to me today. I want to be like David who was a man after your own heart. I want to be like Solomon he built a temple and worshiped you. In 1 Cor. 3:16 You have said that we are the Temple of your Holy Spirit. I pray that you will help me to live my life with honor and respect knowing that your Spirit resides within me. Teach me to honor your covenant and follow your commandments so that you will be honored through my life. I am so glad that you have given me your promises. Forgive me for not always measuring up to your word. I thank you for your promise that you will never to leave me.
Thursday, May 22, 2008
My Tube
SCRIPTURE Psalms 101
1 I will sing of your love and justice;to you, O LORD, I will sing praise. 2 I will be careful to lead a blameless life—when will you come to me? I will walk in my house with blameless heart.
3 I will set before my eyes no vile thing. The deeds of faithless men I hate; they will not cling to me.
OBSERVATION
Every day we watch shows on TV, the Internet and various movies on our DVD players. There is so much media out there that sometimes it is hard to not be careful and just watch whatever. We can watch just about anything on a youtube video. Some of the junk that people post on line is not funny but crazy. I can not believe that people would post so much junk and vile stuff. Psalms 101 talks about being careful about what stuff we allow ourselves to watch. The eyes are a window into our heart and the psalmist explains how it can effect our spiritual walk with the Lord. What we put in our minds will cause us to act a certain way. (Garbage in Garbage out) I want to live a blameless life and I want God's presence (Holy Spirit) to come to me. If we allow junk to cloud or thinking and enter our spirit we can not expect for God to come and dwell with us. It will be like inviting the President of the United states to come hang out in your messy room that is filled with junk & trash and think that he will fill comfortable.
APPLICATION
I want to be careful of what I am putting in my mind. The scripture talks about not being entertained by faithless men. I need put a check on what I allow to come into my home. I can make a choice to watch quality material instead of trash that is being played on various channels. I want the Holy Spirit to feel comfortable watching a show with me. I believe he would feel more comfotable watching somthing on Animal Planet or the Travel channel instead of sitting in front of a violent movie which takes the Lords name in vain every 5 minutes. I want to be sensitive to the Spirit and ask for his advice and let him be the critic.
PRAYER
Lord teach me to be careful and live a blameless life. Please come to me as you did the psalmist. I pray that your presence will fill our home and our lives. Forgive me for watching things that were questionable. I pray that you will protect our family from watching vile things. I want to Love God and Hate Sin. Help me to draw a line in the sand and keep on the blameless side.
We pray that you will put a new song on our hearts and teach us to walk in the Spirit.
1 I will sing of your love and justice;to you, O LORD, I will sing praise. 2 I will be careful to lead a blameless life—when will you come to me? I will walk in my house with blameless heart.
3 I will set before my eyes no vile thing. The deeds of faithless men I hate; they will not cling to me.
OBSERVATION
Every day we watch shows on TV, the Internet and various movies on our DVD players. There is so much media out there that sometimes it is hard to not be careful and just watch whatever. We can watch just about anything on a youtube video. Some of the junk that people post on line is not funny but crazy. I can not believe that people would post so much junk and vile stuff. Psalms 101 talks about being careful about what stuff we allow ourselves to watch. The eyes are a window into our heart and the psalmist explains how it can effect our spiritual walk with the Lord. What we put in our minds will cause us to act a certain way. (Garbage in Garbage out) I want to live a blameless life and I want God's presence (Holy Spirit) to come to me. If we allow junk to cloud or thinking and enter our spirit we can not expect for God to come and dwell with us. It will be like inviting the President of the United states to come hang out in your messy room that is filled with junk & trash and think that he will fill comfortable.
APPLICATION
I want to be careful of what I am putting in my mind. The scripture talks about not being entertained by faithless men. I need put a check on what I allow to come into my home. I can make a choice to watch quality material instead of trash that is being played on various channels. I want the Holy Spirit to feel comfortable watching a show with me. I believe he would feel more comfotable watching somthing on Animal Planet or the Travel channel instead of sitting in front of a violent movie which takes the Lords name in vain every 5 minutes. I want to be sensitive to the Spirit and ask for his advice and let him be the critic.
PRAYER
Lord teach me to be careful and live a blameless life. Please come to me as you did the psalmist. I pray that your presence will fill our home and our lives. Forgive me for watching things that were questionable. I pray that you will protect our family from watching vile things. I want to Love God and Hate Sin. Help me to draw a line in the sand and keep on the blameless side.
We pray that you will put a new song on our hearts and teach us to walk in the Spirit.
Sunday, May 18, 2008
SCRIPTURE
So then, brothers, stand firm and hold to the teachings we passed on to you, whether by word of mouth or by letter.
OBSERVATION
Paul draws a correlation between standing firm and holding tightly to the Holy Scriptures. The church in Thessalonica were facing difficulties through persecution, false teachings and worldly temptation. Paul tells them that they need to know what he had taught them, either in person on in letters, if they wanted to survive these difficulties.
APPLICATION
Likewise, as we face difficulties in life, whether it be persecution, false teachings or worldly temptation, we need to hold tightly to the word of God. To hold tightly to God's word, we need to spend time reading it, studying it, meditating on it, talking about it, learning it. That is why life journaling is so important. It helps us hold tightly to the word of God. I need to be more diligent spending time in God's word. I need to be more passionate about reading, studying, meditating, learning and applying Scripture. I need to do these things if I want to stand firm in the midst of trials and temptations.
PRAYER
Father, help to give me a passion for Your Word. Have grace and mercy on me as I attempt to pursue spiritual disciplines that will help me to hold tightly to scriptures.
So then, brothers, stand firm and hold to the teachings we passed on to you, whether by word of mouth or by letter.
2 Thessalonians 2:15
OBSERVATION
Paul draws a correlation between standing firm and holding tightly to the Holy Scriptures. The church in Thessalonica were facing difficulties through persecution, false teachings and worldly temptation. Paul tells them that they need to know what he had taught them, either in person on in letters, if they wanted to survive these difficulties.
APPLICATION
Likewise, as we face difficulties in life, whether it be persecution, false teachings or worldly temptation, we need to hold tightly to the word of God. To hold tightly to God's word, we need to spend time reading it, studying it, meditating on it, talking about it, learning it. That is why life journaling is so important. It helps us hold tightly to the word of God. I need to be more diligent spending time in God's word. I need to be more passionate about reading, studying, meditating, learning and applying Scripture. I need to do these things if I want to stand firm in the midst of trials and temptations.
PRAYER
Father, help to give me a passion for Your Word. Have grace and mercy on me as I attempt to pursue spiritual disciplines that will help me to hold tightly to scriptures.
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