Scripture - Psalms 104:24,25 Lord, you have made many things; with your wisdom you made them all. The earth is full of your riches. Look at the sea, so big and wide, with creatures large and small that cannot be counted.
Observation - The Lord has made so many things; animals, plants, mountains, oceans, etc. They show his character. By the things he has made, he reveals life. The creatures, great and small, are so unique in their characteristics. God must have a sense of humor also. Some creatures are outright funny looking, and He made so many things. In his wisdom, He created them.
Application - When I look at or observe the things God made, I will think on the wisdom of God. Everything He created has purpose, not matter how unimportant it may seem to us. His is wiser than man.
Prayer - Father, help me to see your light in all that you created. May I always remember your wisdom when I see all that you have made. Amen.
Monday, September 30, 2013
Sunday, September 29, 2013
God Wants More Than a Song
Scripture - Amos 5:23,24 Take the noise of your songs away from me! I won't listen to the music of your harps. But let justice flow like a river, and let goodness flow like a stream that never stops.
Observation - God doesn't just want lip service from His people. He wants action. Websters dictionary:
justice - the condition of being just or fair 2) reward or punishment as deserved 3) the upholding of what is just or lawful 4) to treat people in a fair or proper way
goodness - the condition of being good
good - better than the usual or average kind (good work) 2) not for everyday use; best 3) right for the purpose; satisfactory 4) pleasing or satisfying; enjoyable or happy 5) helpful, that benefits (exercise for good health) 6) doing what is right or proper; well behaved 7) kind or friendly 7) honorable or respected
Application - What manner of people does God expect his children to be? Those who practice justice and goodness. Let us learn to walk in his ways.
Prayer - Let us not just sing songs to you Lord, but let our lives reflect the very essence of who you are. Amen!
Observation - God doesn't just want lip service from His people. He wants action. Websters dictionary:
justice - the condition of being just or fair 2) reward or punishment as deserved 3) the upholding of what is just or lawful 4) to treat people in a fair or proper way
goodness - the condition of being good
good - better than the usual or average kind (good work) 2) not for everyday use; best 3) right for the purpose; satisfactory 4) pleasing or satisfying; enjoyable or happy 5) helpful, that benefits (exercise for good health) 6) doing what is right or proper; well behaved 7) kind or friendly 7) honorable or respected
Application - What manner of people does God expect his children to be? Those who practice justice and goodness. Let us learn to walk in his ways.
Prayer - Let us not just sing songs to you Lord, but let our lives reflect the very essence of who you are. Amen!
Thursday, September 26, 2013
Listen to His Word
S - II Tim. 3:16 All scripture is given by God and is useful for teaching, for showing people what is wrong in their lives, for correcting their faults, and for teaching how to live right.
O - God has given his word to help us. We must begin to listen to him. If there are things in our lives that need to be corrected, God will show us through his word.
A - I must study God's Word and listen for his voice. His Word will speak to me if there is an area that needs to be fixed.
P - Father, teach me how to live. Let your Word convict me enough, so I will change. Amen.
O - God has given his word to help us. We must begin to listen to him. If there are things in our lives that need to be corrected, God will show us through his word.
A - I must study God's Word and listen for his voice. His Word will speak to me if there is an area that needs to be fixed.
P - Father, teach me how to live. Let your Word convict me enough, so I will change. Amen.
Tuesday, September 24, 2013
The Pharisee and the Sinner Who Met Yeshua (Salvation)
Scripture - Luke 7:36-38 And one of the Pharisees asked him (Yeshua) to eat with him. And He went into the Pharisee's house, and sat down to eat. 37 And see, a woman in the city who was a sinner, when she knew that Yeshua sat at the table in the Pharisee's house, brought an alabaster flask of perfume. 38 and standing behind, at His feet, weeping, she began to wet His feet with her tears, and wipig them with the hair of her head, and was kissing His feet and anointing them with perfume.
Observation - I was overcome with emotion as I read Luke 7, but these three versus speak very loudly to me. The Pharisee was walking out religion in his life. He invited Yeshua for a meal (maybe even just to pick his brain and see what he was made of, possibly to try and trip him up philosophically). The woman it seems just kind of showed up. She heard that Yeshua was there, and she couldn't stay away. There was a drawing from Yah and she had to be there. She was a sinner and she needed a savior. When she entered his presence, she was undone. This was a supernatural experience. She wept and washed Yeshua's feet with her tears, using her hair to wipe them. She kissed his feet and anointed them with perfume. Her life was changed forever after being in His very presence. Scripture goes on to say in the next verses how those who are redeemed from a life of deep sin, show greater love than those who haven't walked that path.
Application - As a person who was in deep sin before I met Yeshua (Jesus), I have somewhat of an understanding of this love. He saved me and brought me out of a deep pit, and I am eternally grateful. May my life be seen as an example of one who loves him deeply.
Prayer - Father, thank you for the day that I saw your son, Yeshua, for who he was - my salvation. His very name, Yeshua, means "salvation." Let me love you without reservation and not be afraid of what others may think. It is my relationship with you that matters more than anything. I am eternally grateful for all that you have done for me. In Yeshua's name. Amen.
Observation - I was overcome with emotion as I read Luke 7, but these three versus speak very loudly to me. The Pharisee was walking out religion in his life. He invited Yeshua for a meal (maybe even just to pick his brain and see what he was made of, possibly to try and trip him up philosophically). The woman it seems just kind of showed up. She heard that Yeshua was there, and she couldn't stay away. There was a drawing from Yah and she had to be there. She was a sinner and she needed a savior. When she entered his presence, she was undone. This was a supernatural experience. She wept and washed Yeshua's feet with her tears, using her hair to wipe them. She kissed his feet and anointed them with perfume. Her life was changed forever after being in His very presence. Scripture goes on to say in the next verses how those who are redeemed from a life of deep sin, show greater love than those who haven't walked that path.
Application - As a person who was in deep sin before I met Yeshua (Jesus), I have somewhat of an understanding of this love. He saved me and brought me out of a deep pit, and I am eternally grateful. May my life be seen as an example of one who loves him deeply.
Prayer - Father, thank you for the day that I saw your son, Yeshua, for who he was - my salvation. His very name, Yeshua, means "salvation." Let me love you without reservation and not be afraid of what others may think. It is my relationship with you that matters more than anything. I am eternally grateful for all that you have done for me. In Yeshua's name. Amen.
Listen to Yahuwah
S - Amos 3:6,7 When trouble comes to a city, the Yahuwah has caused it. Before Yahuwah does anything, he tells his plans to his servants the prophets.
O - We need to tune in to what the true prophets of Yah are saying. The false ones are giving messages of how you can gain more wealth. The true propets, however, are telling us to discern the times we are living in. We are living in the end times according to Yah's prophets and we need to be prepared.
A - I need to discern the true voice of Yahuwah. He is still speaking to us. He will always warn His people before he does anything on the earth. I need to stay prayed up and listening for his voice.
P - Father, I thank you that you are speaking through your leaders regarding things to come. The earthquakes, storms, etc. were all spoken of in your Word. Let us seek you regarding preparation for the end times. Amen.
O - We need to tune in to what the true prophets of Yah are saying. The false ones are giving messages of how you can gain more wealth. The true propets, however, are telling us to discern the times we are living in. We are living in the end times according to Yah's prophets and we need to be prepared.
A - I need to discern the true voice of Yahuwah. He is still speaking to us. He will always warn His people before he does anything on the earth. I need to stay prayed up and listening for his voice.
P - Father, I thank you that you are speaking through your leaders regarding things to come. The earthquakes, storms, etc. were all spoken of in your Word. Let us seek you regarding preparation for the end times. Amen.
Monday, September 23, 2013
Pursue Faith, Peace, and Love
S - II Timothy 2:22 But run away from the evil young people like to do. Try hard to live right and to have faith, love, and peace, together with those who trust in the Lord from pure hearts.
O - Young people, who don't follow the Lord, sometimes find themselves caught up in all sorts of evil. If you want to live your life as a believer, it is necessary to turn away from evil and the appearance of evil in your life. You are to live a pure, peaceful life, following after faith and love. In order to attain this, we need to be associated with other believers who are pursuing God's ways in their lives.
A - I must pursue peace, faith, and love, and hang out with others who are also seeking these virtues.
P - Help me Father to follow after you and not be caught up in evil or the appearance of evil. Amen.
O - Young people, who don't follow the Lord, sometimes find themselves caught up in all sorts of evil. If you want to live your life as a believer, it is necessary to turn away from evil and the appearance of evil in your life. You are to live a pure, peaceful life, following after faith and love. In order to attain this, we need to be associated with other believers who are pursuing God's ways in their lives.
A - I must pursue peace, faith, and love, and hang out with others who are also seeking these virtues.
P - Help me Father to follow after you and not be caught up in evil or the appearance of evil. Amen.
Sunday, September 22, 2013
We Are Not Afraid
Scripture - 2 Timothy 1:7,8 God did not give us a spirit that makes us afraid, but a spirit of power and love and self-control. So, do not be ashamed to tell people about our Messiah Yeshua.
Observation - We need to ask the Lord for opportunities to share with others about Yeshua (Jesus). When God quickens that we need to share with someone, we should not be afraid. The Lord will move in His power and love as we share, and we must have self-control enough to be sensitive to the leading of the Ruach (Spirit).
Application - I must share with other the story of salvation. In Revelation, God's Word says "They overcame the evil one with the blood of the Lamb (Yeshua) and the word of their testimony." We must share His story.
Prayer - Father, help me to look for opportunities to share the story of Yeshua and the story of what He has done in my life. Let them be saved and changed. Amen.
Observation - We need to ask the Lord for opportunities to share with others about Yeshua (Jesus). When God quickens that we need to share with someone, we should not be afraid. The Lord will move in His power and love as we share, and we must have self-control enough to be sensitive to the leading of the Ruach (Spirit).
Application - I must share with other the story of salvation. In Revelation, God's Word says "They overcame the evil one with the blood of the Lamb (Yeshua) and the word of their testimony." We must share His story.
Prayer - Father, help me to look for opportunities to share the story of Yeshua and the story of what He has done in my life. Let them be saved and changed. Amen.
Saturday, September 21, 2013
Riches
I Timothy 6:9,10 Those who want to become rich bring temptation to themselves and are caught in a trap. They want many foolish and harmful things that ruin and destroy people. The love of money causes all kinds of evil. Some people have left the faith because they wanted to get more money, but they have caused themselves much sorrow.
Observation - Having money isn't all it is cracked up to be. There are more important things in life. In verse 11 it does on to say, "live in the right way, serve God, have faith, love patience, and gentleness." We are not to seek after riches. It will use all of our energy in life. We must use our energy to seek after the Lord. Many people who used to feed their spirit in church, no longer attend either because of greed or just wanting to engage in recreational activities that consume their lives.
Application - Stay focused on God and follow Him - not riches.
Prayer - Lord, help me to follow after you. Let not riches contry my existence. Let me be content with what you have blessed me with. Amen.
Observation - Having money isn't all it is cracked up to be. There are more important things in life. In verse 11 it does on to say, "live in the right way, serve God, have faith, love patience, and gentleness." We are not to seek after riches. It will use all of our energy in life. We must use our energy to seek after the Lord. Many people who used to feed their spirit in church, no longer attend either because of greed or just wanting to engage in recreational activities that consume their lives.
Application - Stay focused on God and follow Him - not riches.
Prayer - Lord, help me to follow after you. Let not riches contry my existence. Let me be content with what you have blessed me with. Amen.
Friday, September 20, 2013
Helping is Scriptural - Enabling is Not
I Timothy 5:8 Whoever does not care for his own relatives, especially his own family members, has turned against the faith and is worse than someone who does not believe in Yahweh.
Observation - Why do we care for them? Is it because we agree with them or the lives they live? No, we care for them because they are family. When we see a family member in need, we should attempt to help them.
Application - If any of my family members are truly in need, I am to help them. In the day that we live in, there are so many people who make bad choices regarding finances. When I originally wrote this post, I had a different view. I agree that we are to help them, but not be in codependent relationships with anyone. There is a fine line friends between true needs and someone riding out the consequences of bad choices.
Prayer - Father, help me to help my family members who have true needs, and help me to discern between helping and enabling. Amen.
Observation - Why do we care for them? Is it because we agree with them or the lives they live? No, we care for them because they are family. When we see a family member in need, we should attempt to help them.
Application - If any of my family members are truly in need, I am to help them. In the day that we live in, there are so many people who make bad choices regarding finances. When I originally wrote this post, I had a different view. I agree that we are to help them, but not be in codependent relationships with anyone. There is a fine line friends between true needs and someone riding out the consequences of bad choices.
Prayer - Father, help me to help my family members who have true needs, and help me to discern between helping and enabling. Amen.
Thursday, September 19, 2013
Truth vs. Wrong Doctrines
Scripture - I Timothy 4:1,2 Now the Holy Spirit clearly says that in the later times some people will stop believing the faith. They will follow spirits that lie and teachings of demons. Such teachings come from the false words of liars.
Observation - We are living in these later times spoken of here. There are so many wrong teachings today. Even so, we must hold fast to our faith - the true faith. We must measure teachings by God's Word to know if they are true. We can not just take one scripture and base our whole felief system on it. We must look at the complete context of the Word.
Application - I will search the scriptures daily so I won't be deceived and pray for wisdom from the Lord.
Prayer - Father, please help me to walk in faith and truth. Impart wisdom to me. Amen.
Observation - We are living in these later times spoken of here. There are so many wrong teachings today. Even so, we must hold fast to our faith - the true faith. We must measure teachings by God's Word to know if they are true. We can not just take one scripture and base our whole felief system on it. We must look at the complete context of the Word.
Application - I will search the scriptures daily so I won't be deceived and pray for wisdom from the Lord.
Prayer - Father, please help me to walk in faith and truth. Impart wisdom to me. Amen.
Wednesday, September 18, 2013
Praise Him!
Scripture - II Chronicles 20:22 As they began to sing and praise God, the Lord set ambushes for the people of Ammon, Moab, and Edom who had come to attack Judah. And they were defeated.
Observation - Yes, there was a battle in front of Judah, but their focus was not to be on the battle. Their focus was to be on "praising God." When they praised God, He set ambushes against the enemy. As we look to him, He defeats the enemy. Too many believers today give the enemy too much attention.
Application - I will praise Him! I will have praise music in my home. He lives in the praises of His people!
Pray - When battles are raging, let me focus on praising you, Lord. As I do, please fight my battles. In Yeshua's name. Amen.
Observation - Yes, there was a battle in front of Judah, but their focus was not to be on the battle. Their focus was to be on "praising God." When they praised God, He set ambushes against the enemy. As we look to him, He defeats the enemy. Too many believers today give the enemy too much attention.
Application - I will praise Him! I will have praise music in my home. He lives in the praises of His people!
Pray - When battles are raging, let me focus on praising you, Lord. As I do, please fight my battles. In Yeshua's name. Amen.
Tuesday, September 17, 2013
Pray for Those in Authority
Scripture - I Tim. 2:2 Pray for rulers and for all who have authority so that we can have quiet and peaceful lives, full of worship and respect for God.
Observation - We are to pray for leaders in our lives. The decisions they make can impact our lives in either positive or negative ways. This is part of the reason that we need to pray for them. Peoples' lives are dependent on those in authority making good decisions. We don't pray for them nearly enough because maybe we just think that we are insignificant. But when we pray, we have our Father's attention. It is not about the people in authority. It is about the Spirit of God impacting those in authority and causing them to make godly decisions.
Application - I will pray for leaders in my city, state, and country. I pray that they would make decisions that will honor God and help people.
Prayer - Father, please give those in authority wisdom so that your children may continue praising you without strife. Amen.
Observation - We are to pray for leaders in our lives. The decisions they make can impact our lives in either positive or negative ways. This is part of the reason that we need to pray for them. Peoples' lives are dependent on those in authority making good decisions. We don't pray for them nearly enough because maybe we just think that we are insignificant. But when we pray, we have our Father's attention. It is not about the people in authority. It is about the Spirit of God impacting those in authority and causing them to make godly decisions.
Application - I will pray for leaders in my city, state, and country. I pray that they would make decisions that will honor God and help people.
Prayer - Father, please give those in authority wisdom so that your children may continue praising you without strife. Amen.
Sunday, September 15, 2013
Good and Perfect Gifts
Scripture - James 1:16-17 My dear brothers and sisters, do not be fooled about this. 17 Every good action and every perfect gift is from God. These good gifts come down from the Creator of the sun, moon, and stars, who does not change like their shifting shadows.
Observation - Wow to think that the Creator of the Universe, as vast as it is, cares enough about his children to give them good and perfect gifts. He loves us so very much. The best gift he gave to any of us is his son, Yeshua. He also gives us gifts of family and friends. While the Father gives us his wonderful gifts, let us remember him as Creator and the Lover of Our Souls. He knows what is best for each person's life. Sometimes we look at others and what they have and are jealous. But Yahweh knows what he is doing. He gives each of us a set of circumstances to show us that he loves us.
Application - I will be so grateful for the good and perfect gifts that Yahweh has given to me. He has blessed me with a wonderful husband, six beautiful children, and 13 grandchildren, and many that I call "friends." But most of all, he sent his Son Yeshua to save me and the Holy Spirit to help me. He has also given His Word to guide me along this path through my life. What more could I ask for?
Prayer - Father, thank you for the gifts that you have given to me. Let me always remember that they are blessings. Help me to focus on the positive not negatives in those around me. In Yeshua's name. Amen.
Observation - Wow to think that the Creator of the Universe, as vast as it is, cares enough about his children to give them good and perfect gifts. He loves us so very much. The best gift he gave to any of us is his son, Yeshua. He also gives us gifts of family and friends. While the Father gives us his wonderful gifts, let us remember him as Creator and the Lover of Our Souls. He knows what is best for each person's life. Sometimes we look at others and what they have and are jealous. But Yahweh knows what he is doing. He gives each of us a set of circumstances to show us that he loves us.
Application - I will be so grateful for the good and perfect gifts that Yahweh has given to me. He has blessed me with a wonderful husband, six beautiful children, and 13 grandchildren, and many that I call "friends." But most of all, he sent his Son Yeshua to save me and the Holy Spirit to help me. He has also given His Word to guide me along this path through my life. What more could I ask for?
Prayer - Father, thank you for the gifts that you have given to me. Let me always remember that they are blessings. Help me to focus on the positive not negatives in those around me. In Yeshua's name. Amen.
It Is Our Job
Scripture - Ps. 82:3,4 Defend the weak and the orphans; defend the rights of the poor and suffering. Save the weak and helpless; free them from the power of the wicked.
Observation - God's heart is made glad when we do these things. He is very concerned about the "throw away" people in our world.
Application - We must begin to be His heartbeat (Lev Shelo in Hebrew means His Heart) to the weak, orphans, poor, and suffering. We are his hands extended.
Prayer - Father, teach us your heart. Amen
Observation - God's heart is made glad when we do these things. He is very concerned about the "throw away" people in our world.
Application - We must begin to be His heartbeat (Lev Shelo in Hebrew means His Heart) to the weak, orphans, poor, and suffering. We are his hands extended.
Prayer - Father, teach us your heart. Amen
Thursday, September 12, 2013
Walking on His Path through Temptation
S - James 1:12 How blessed is the man who perseveres through temptation! For after he has passed the test, he will receive as his crown the Life which God has promised to those who love him.
O - Why is it that the temptations and tests we face in this life seem so huge to us? We, as believers, have the knowledge of right and wrong. We want to follow Yahweh and keep on his path. But the flesh just keeps rearing its ugly head and so often, we give in. Oh, we know there is forgiveness, but the consequences of sin leave their ugly scars on our lives. Is it because we don't take the Lord seriously? Does the Holy Spirit convict us before we sin? Do we not listen to him?
A - The closer that I walk to the Lord, the less temptation I will have to do wrong. It is a narrow path that leads to life and Yeshua said there will be few who find it. I want to walk on that narrow path and receive the crown of Life. I believe there are different levels in heaven. Salvation isn't based on works, but what if the place you end up in heaven depends on how you walk on this earth?
P - Father, please help me to walk out your will for me in this life. Lead me not in temptation. Deliver me from evil. My spirit is willing to follow you, but my flesh is so weak. Build me up in your Ruach Hakodesh so that I don't sin against you. You are all that I have in this life. People may fail me, but your love never fails. In Yeshua's name. Amen.
O - Why is it that the temptations and tests we face in this life seem so huge to us? We, as believers, have the knowledge of right and wrong. We want to follow Yahweh and keep on his path. But the flesh just keeps rearing its ugly head and so often, we give in. Oh, we know there is forgiveness, but the consequences of sin leave their ugly scars on our lives. Is it because we don't take the Lord seriously? Does the Holy Spirit convict us before we sin? Do we not listen to him?
A - The closer that I walk to the Lord, the less temptation I will have to do wrong. It is a narrow path that leads to life and Yeshua said there will be few who find it. I want to walk on that narrow path and receive the crown of Life. I believe there are different levels in heaven. Salvation isn't based on works, but what if the place you end up in heaven depends on how you walk on this earth?
P - Father, please help me to walk out your will for me in this life. Lead me not in temptation. Deliver me from evil. My spirit is willing to follow you, but my flesh is so weak. Build me up in your Ruach Hakodesh so that I don't sin against you. You are all that I have in this life. People may fail me, but your love never fails. In Yeshua's name. Amen.
Wednesday, September 11, 2013
Be Fair
Scripture - II Chron. 19:7 Watch what you do, because the Lord our God wants people to be fair. He wants all people to be treated the same, and he doesn't want decisions influenced by money.
Observation - Our government should be run according to these principles; but unfortunately because of greed, people can be bought. They may even change their vote if there is money involved. We live in a society that continually asks "What's in it for me?" We can be easily bought. Even if something is right, maybe the people won't support it if there is monetary gain in a different arena.
Application - I must make decisions in my life that are according to the righteousness of God and his Word.
Prayer - Lord, help me to seek to do your will not only when there is something in it for me, but just because it is right. Amen.
Observation - Our government should be run according to these principles; but unfortunately because of greed, people can be bought. They may even change their vote if there is money involved. We live in a society that continually asks "What's in it for me?" We can be easily bought. Even if something is right, maybe the people won't support it if there is monetary gain in a different arena.
Application - I must make decisions in my life that are according to the righteousness of God and his Word.
Prayer - Lord, help me to seek to do your will not only when there is something in it for me, but just because it is right. Amen.
His Wisdom
Scripture - James 1:5-8
If any of you is deficient in wisdom, let him ask of [a]the giving God [Who gives] to everyone liberally and ungrudgingly, without reproaching or faultfinding, and it will be given him.
If any of you is deficient in wisdom, let him ask of [a]the giving God [Who gives] to everyone liberally and ungrudgingly, without reproaching or faultfinding, and it will be given him.
6 Only it must be in faith that he asks with no wavering (no hesitating, no doubting). For the one who wavers (hesitates, doubts) is like the billowing surge out at sea that is blown hither and thither and tossed by the wind.
7 For truly, let not such a person imagine that he will receive anything [he asks for] from the Lord,
8 [For being as he is] a man of two minds (hesitating, dubious, irresolute), [he is] unstable and unreliable and uncertain about everything [he thinks, feels, decides].
Observation - I have seen these scriptures quoted so many times (especially verse 6) by those who are in the faith movement. It is imperative that scripture is taken in context. Friends, this portion of scripture is specifically speaking of those who lack wisdom and need the Lord to show them his will. We have behaved like children wanting our own way in life. There are those who use this scripture (and quote it over and over again) for personal monetary gain. I am not seeing it.
So, with that in mind, if you need wisdom - HAVE FAITH IN GOD. Ask him to show you and believe that HE WILL. Do not be double minded when you ask. He will give it to you.
Application - So many times in my life, I need his wisdom and don't even go to him to ask for it. Decisions that I make are without his leading. I do not want to be wavering in my faith when I ask him for wisdom. His wisdom is needed in my life every day. So many decisions that are made and oh how I need his wisdom. May I be diligent to seek him, his will and his purpose for my life.
Prayer - Father, I pray in faith for your wisdom today. You are the God who loves me. You will give us your heart if only we ask you for it. This day before me is a new day. A day to "do it right" for your glory. Please help me to be mindful to come to you and ask you in faith for your wisdom in every situation that should arise. In Yeshua's name. Amen.
Tuesday, September 10, 2013
Serve God not Wealth
Scripture - James 1:9-11 A believer who doesn't amount to much in this world should be glad, for he is great in the Lord's sight. But a rich man should be glad that his riches mean nothing to the Lord, for he will soon be gone, like a flower that has lost its beauty and fades away withered - killed by the scorching summer sun. So it is with rich men. They will soon die and leave behind all their busy activities.
Observation - The worldly riches that meany people set their sites on amount to nothing in God's eyes. It is better to live a modest life on this earth and be happy and keep your focus on God. I love the analogy of the flower and the scorching sun. We live in the desert in Southern California, and once the sun beats down on the plants for a few weeks, they wither. So it is with the rich. All looks so good, but when death comes, they are no more in their place on this earth.
Application - I will not seek worldly wealth, but will set my sight on the goodness of the Lord. The riches of this world are irrelevant as this world is not my home.
Prayer - Father, please help me to prioritize my life and be content with loving and knowing you and loving others. Give me your heart. In Yeshua's name. Amen
Observation - The worldly riches that meany people set their sites on amount to nothing in God's eyes. It is better to live a modest life on this earth and be happy and keep your focus on God. I love the analogy of the flower and the scorching sun. We live in the desert in Southern California, and once the sun beats down on the plants for a few weeks, they wither. So it is with the rich. All looks so good, but when death comes, they are no more in their place on this earth.
Application - I will not seek worldly wealth, but will set my sight on the goodness of the Lord. The riches of this world are irrelevant as this world is not my home.
Prayer - Father, please help me to prioritize my life and be content with loving and knowing you and loving others. Give me your heart. In Yeshua's name. Amen
Monday, September 9, 2013
Having a Servant Heart and Knowing Trials Will Come
Scripture - James 1:1-4 From James, as servant of God and of the Lord Yeshua. to God's faithful people who have been scattered. My brothers and sisters, be very happy when you are tested in different ways. You know that such testing of your faith produces endurance. Endure until your testing is over. Then you will be mature and complete, and you won't need anything.
Observation - I found this scripture most touching this morning. James, even though he was the brother of Yeshua, calls himself his servant. James could have been puffed up just knowing that his brother was the Son of Yahweh, but he took on servitude.
Also, any time of testing we find ourselves in are to help us become mature. And please remember - THE TIME OF TESTING WILL END!
Application - When James said he was a servant of God and Yeshua, that meant his life no longer was his own. We must get to this point of total surrender and realize it is God who calls the shots in our lives. When I am being tested, it is so that the very character of God will be formed in me.
Prayer - Father, I pray that you will help me to be your servant to further your kingdom. I will trust you to bring trials into my life that produce mature fruit, so that others around me will see your love. Amen.
Observation - I found this scripture most touching this morning. James, even though he was the brother of Yeshua, calls himself his servant. James could have been puffed up just knowing that his brother was the Son of Yahweh, but he took on servitude.
Also, any time of testing we find ourselves in are to help us become mature. And please remember - THE TIME OF TESTING WILL END!
Application - When James said he was a servant of God and Yeshua, that meant his life no longer was his own. We must get to this point of total surrender and realize it is God who calls the shots in our lives. When I am being tested, it is so that the very character of God will be formed in me.
Prayer - Father, I pray that you will help me to be your servant to further your kingdom. I will trust you to bring trials into my life that produce mature fruit, so that others around me will see your love. Amen.
Saturday, September 7, 2013
Life is Hectic - But God
We really live in a stress-filled society. Life is so very hectic. Running here and there. Working so hard that you can hardly breathe. Somehow I don't think this is the way it was meant to be. Women were really sold a bad bill of goods. Instead of staying home and taking care of our children, someone thought it a better idea to go to work to make more money. This way you can pay someone else to basically raise your children. But Yahweh gave those children to you - not to the caregiver that you pay so well.
Who suffers for this whole turn-around society? We all do. First of all, our children suffer. When I was a child, I was secure knowing that routines were daily. You went to school, then you had a snack when you got home. Homework was next. Practicing the piano for 1/2 hour daily was next on the list. Then there were chores to do. Last of all, there was play. Everyone worked together to keep the household up and running. But there was a Mom there to make sure that everything ran as smoothly as possible. This is not the way in today's world and we wonder why we have so many children who can't focus in school. Dah!
Then the mothers suffer also. They are burning the candle at both ends. We are trying to work a 40 hour week outside the home, and still keep up with chores in the home. Add a commute to the mix of an hour and a half daily. Who cooks dinner? Who makes sure the kids homework is completed?
But I must not dwell on the things that I cannot change. I must focus on God and the many good things he has given to me. Life is hectic, but I am His child. He gives me rest one day out of seven. He fills my heart with his wonderful love. He has blessed me with an amazing husband and eight beautiful children. He has blessed me with 13 awesome grandchildren. And He gives me strength to make it through the trials of this life. What more could I ask for?
Who suffers for this whole turn-around society? We all do. First of all, our children suffer. When I was a child, I was secure knowing that routines were daily. You went to school, then you had a snack when you got home. Homework was next. Practicing the piano for 1/2 hour daily was next on the list. Then there were chores to do. Last of all, there was play. Everyone worked together to keep the household up and running. But there was a Mom there to make sure that everything ran as smoothly as possible. This is not the way in today's world and we wonder why we have so many children who can't focus in school. Dah!
Then the mothers suffer also. They are burning the candle at both ends. We are trying to work a 40 hour week outside the home, and still keep up with chores in the home. Add a commute to the mix of an hour and a half daily. Who cooks dinner? Who makes sure the kids homework is completed?
But I must not dwell on the things that I cannot change. I must focus on God and the many good things he has given to me. Life is hectic, but I am His child. He gives me rest one day out of seven. He fills my heart with his wonderful love. He has blessed me with an amazing husband and eight beautiful children. He has blessed me with 13 awesome grandchildren. And He gives me strength to make it through the trials of this life. What more could I ask for?
Thursday, September 5, 2013
I'm Free
Scripture - Col. 2:11 It was through Christ's circumcision, that is, his death, that you were made free from the power of your sinful self.
Observation - I can't overcome the power of sin in my life in my own strength. What Yeshua did for me, by giving his life, is the only way. It is all about what he did for me. I trust in him and I am set free from sins and strongholds in my life.
Application - I will not live in the past other than to look back to the love Yeshua has for me. He died to set me free. It is not by any works that I do; it is only by the one work He did by dying for my sins that I am free.
Prayer - Thank you, Father for the finished work of Yeshua. He paid the price whith his blood. He laid down his life so I can be free - free from my sinful self. Amen.
Observation - I can't overcome the power of sin in my life in my own strength. What Yeshua did for me, by giving his life, is the only way. It is all about what he did for me. I trust in him and I am set free from sins and strongholds in my life.
Application - I will not live in the past other than to look back to the love Yeshua has for me. He died to set me free. It is not by any works that I do; it is only by the one work He did by dying for my sins that I am free.
Prayer - Thank you, Father for the finished work of Yeshua. He paid the price whith his blood. He laid down his life so I can be free - free from my sinful self. Amen.
Tuesday, September 3, 2013
Once Separated - Now Friends
Scripture - Col. 1:21 At one time you were separated from God. You were His enemies in your minds, and the evil things you did were against Yahweh. But now Yahweh has made you His friends again. He did this through Christ's death...
Observation - I can remember in my life before I met Jesus (Yeshua) that I was very much separated from God. Many years ago my life was full of evil. I did not walk with God. Then someone shared with me how I could be a friend of God's. This hope is through faith in what Christ did for me out of love when he died on the cross from my sin. My life was forever changed.
Application - There are many lost people who need to hear how they can be God's friends. We must share what Yeshua did on the cross for them.
Prayer - Father, help us show others the way. Amen!
Observation - I can remember in my life before I met Jesus (Yeshua) that I was very much separated from God. Many years ago my life was full of evil. I did not walk with God. Then someone shared with me how I could be a friend of God's. This hope is through faith in what Christ did for me out of love when he died on the cross from my sin. My life was forever changed.
Application - There are many lost people who need to hear how they can be God's friends. We must share what Yeshua did on the cross for them.
Prayer - Father, help us show others the way. Amen!
Monday, September 2, 2013
Who are the 144,000?
Scripture - Revelation 7:4 And I heard the number of those who were sealed, one hundred and forty-four thousand sealed from every tribe of the sons of Israel
Observation - Who are the 144,000? The ten northern tribes were dispersed among the nations. Those of the southern kingdom are the ones that we call Jews today from the tribes of Judah (and Benjamin). They returned to the land and they know who they are. This passage goes even further to say that there will be 12,000 from each tribe. Is it not possible that some of us will be part of the 144,000?
Application - I don't really have an application for this one. Just pondering who the 144,000 are this evening. Prior to this passage, verse 3 says they will be sealed on their foreheads. In the times that we live in, it is a possibility that we will be on the earth during this time period. We must hold fast to our faith. Even if we are not in the 144,000, we could very likely be part of the great multitude from every nation, tribe, peoples, and tongues who cry out in verse 10 "Salvation to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb."
Prayer - Father, please help us to walk ever so close to you in the days that we live in. There are many tribulations coming. Let us be part of your plan to usher in the second coming of Yeshua. Help my brothers and sisters to remain strong in you. Amen.
Observation - Who are the 144,000? The ten northern tribes were dispersed among the nations. Those of the southern kingdom are the ones that we call Jews today from the tribes of Judah (and Benjamin). They returned to the land and they know who they are. This passage goes even further to say that there will be 12,000 from each tribe. Is it not possible that some of us will be part of the 144,000?
Application - I don't really have an application for this one. Just pondering who the 144,000 are this evening. Prior to this passage, verse 3 says they will be sealed on their foreheads. In the times that we live in, it is a possibility that we will be on the earth during this time period. We must hold fast to our faith. Even if we are not in the 144,000, we could very likely be part of the great multitude from every nation, tribe, peoples, and tongues who cry out in verse 10 "Salvation to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb."
Prayer - Father, please help us to walk ever so close to you in the days that we live in. There are many tribulations coming. Let us be part of your plan to usher in the second coming of Yeshua. Help my brothers and sisters to remain strong in you. Amen.
Don't Worry - Pray!
Scripture - Philippians 4:6,7 Do not worry about anything, but pray and ask God for everything you need, always giving thanks. And God's peace, which is so great we cannot understand it, will keep your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.
Observation - God shares with us some secrets to overcome stress in this passage. He tells us not to worry. He tells us to replace worry with prayer. He also tells us to be thankful. We can take the things that concern us to the Lord in prayer. That in itself will lift a load of stress and worry off our shoulders and place it on the Lord's. His shoulders are much better equiped to handle the load. This scripture also tells us that God's peace will keep our minds and hearts in Christ Jesus.
Application - I choose to pray instead of worrying. I choose to be thankful. I will trust the Lord to give me His peace.
Prayer - Father, you know my needs better than I do. I ask you Lord to meet my needs. I will remember to praise you in everything, even when I don't feel like it. Amen
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Observation - God shares with us some secrets to overcome stress in this passage. He tells us not to worry. He tells us to replace worry with prayer. He also tells us to be thankful. We can take the things that concern us to the Lord in prayer. That in itself will lift a load of stress and worry off our shoulders and place it on the Lord's. His shoulders are much better equiped to handle the load. This scripture also tells us that God's peace will keep our minds and hearts in Christ Jesus.
Application - I choose to pray instead of worrying. I choose to be thankful. I will trust the Lord to give me His peace.
Prayer - Father, you know my needs better than I do. I ask you Lord to meet my needs. I will remember to praise you in everything, even when I don't feel like it. Amen
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