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Fwd: devotions

Lesson 12

The return of the King

Revelation 19:11 through 20:10

Monday

Behold!

Revelation 19:11a
And I saw heaven opened, and behold…

As I sit and write this, I've been back in Texas for almost two months.  968 miles away from ten years of Indiana corn and soy beans, and living in a majestically different Texas than the metro Houston I remember fondly, I am finding myself feeling closer to God than I have in some time. 

Driving to work here can easily mean an hour or more of time alone in the car, but unlike Houston, you are moving.  The hill country west of Austin is God's beauty to experience.  The hills, the twisting roads, the livestock – deer, goats, sheep, and even elk. 

I don't think I will ever forget my first day of work here.  Headed to Johnson City from Austin and squinting as dawn breaks in my rear view mirror and then, there was that moment.  When the road curved and dropped away, the horizon moved from right in front of you to seemingly infinity.  The sun behind you lighting up the mountains and valleys and trees and hills ahead of you – all at once.  And it made me think of today's verse.  It felt like heaven was opening and I was seeing something that though familiar, was spectacularly new and special. 

I think that's how it will be when Jesus come back.  One minute we're in the midst of normal stresses (like starting a new job) and our minds are on the mundane when heaven opens.  And God Himself reaches out and welcomes us right into his presence to behold Him in a new way we've never imagined. 

Join me today in praising Him.  Open your mind and awareness; allow him to open heaven up just for you to glimpse.

Tuesday

Here comes da judge!

Revelation 19:11b
And I saw Heaven opened and behold a white horse, and He that sat upon him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness He doeth Judge…

As I write, there are nine days, thirteen hours and change before the next presidential election.  (And as you read this, I will be praying for our president elect and asking God to guide all of our leaders.)  I'm blessed to have friends on both sides of the aisle and try my best to listen and learn – respectfully and transparently.  I want to know what others think is important.  Discuss what are the facts and what is spin?  What are the risks in who we elect?  I want to make my decision based on facts and my conscience.   

As I've talked with others, I've found one thing that is almost universal.  We are not pleased with some aspect of each major candidate, and we have concerns, great and small, over the direction our nation is going. And beyond that to the whole world. 

What experiences and knowledge do our leaders really possess?  Are they going to be able to make things better, or even hold the line as the international society rages.  Are they authentic and honorable?  Are they honest?  Are they seeking His will? Am I open to His will if it disagrees with my desires?

And although I'm not comfortable interpreting the things described in the book of Revelation, I feel comforted when I look at our verse today.  It speaks of Jesus – and I know Him.  I would not hesitate to vote for Him, but that was never meant to be.  It simply isn't necessary, for you see, He's already in charge.  He is faithful to us and His word is true. 

Join me today as I pray for our earthly leaders.  Pray for me as I seek to know my Lord more closely and be more like Him daily.  Thank Him with me for being who He is – the one who is qualified to lead from righteousness. 

Wednesday

God's wrath and the judgement of sinners

Revelation 19:13-16 (amplified)
He is dressed in a robe dipped in blood, and His name is called the Word of God.  And the armies of heaven, dressed in fine dazzling linen, white and clean, followed Him on white horses.  From his mouth comes a sharp sword (His word), with which He may strike down the nations; and He will rule them with a rod of iron. He will tread the winepress of the fierce wrath of God, the Almighty in judgement of a rebellious world. And on His robe and on His thigh was a name written – King of Kings, and Lord of Lords!

Most of us are more comfortable thinking about our God as a kind and loving personal friend.  Someone who wants us to be good; who forgives us when we fail and wipes away our tears when we hurt.  We are not as comfortable thinking about the anger of God and the times in the Old Testament where he sent in armies to kill men, women, children, and livestock (I mean really - how sinful can a cow really be?) or in our text today as He reigns in judgement. Some may even think this is the Old God and Jesus is the New and God is now a kindly grandfather who tries to make our lives better.  I don't agree.  I read of Jesus clearing out the temple, and here I read of Him coming to judge the people of the earth for sin. 

God has given us many of His own characteristics: Love, kindness, anger, sadness, grief, and pain.  Some are just ours – guilt, envy, selfishness and lying come to mind.  I am humbled to admit how often the human failures manifest in my life, and how much I need to add more fruits of the Spirit to my day.  For I am a wretched sinner.  I fail my God, my family and friends, and myself. 

But I see today's verses not in fear, but in hope. Hope that one day, my sins will truly be gone.  My shortcomings will be behind me.  That Jesus, in taking my sin on Himself, has provided a home for me with Him.  And a victorious yet sorrowful feeling – knowing that His wrath will pour out.  That all those people I used to hope would get what they deserve – do get what I deserve.  Knowing I have Christ's forgiveness; that God is a fair judge and that we all are accountable for our decisions doesn't make it easier to know many will face eternity separated from God.

Today I'm praying for the people I know who are like me – flawed and sinful.  People I can walk with in their journey to God.  Asking Him to use me, even if it takes me out of my comfort zone. 

Thursday

A glimpse of heaven?

Revelation 20:1-3

"And I saw an angel coming down out of heaven, having the key to the Abyss and holding in his hand a great chain. He seized the dragon, that ancient serpent, who is the devil, or Satan, and bound him for a thousand years. He threw him into the Abyss, and locked and sealed it over him...

Tomorrow is Thanksgiving as I write, and there appears to be something in the air.  A spirit a little more open to putting the election behind us, and the hate it drew from so many, and looking ahead.  I see a mom and infant daughter meeting her father for breakfast - and the sparkle in the child's eye seeing her Grand Dad is incredible.  Grand Dad's smile is prettty memorable too!  Then there's a table of older men (my age), extra chairs pulled up,  sitting with coffee cups well filled; with oft told and well embellished stories sharing conversation, fellowship and life.  Makes me wonder what is heaven really like.

Don't get me wrong, I believe that being in God's presence with other Christian souls will be an indescribable experience beyond my ability to comprehend.  But I also think it will be filled with some simple things.  The smile of a child.  The hug of a family member.  Shared time with good friends.  Maybe even a cup of coffee and a wagging tail from a loving pet.  A time with no temptation, no sin, no division and no time constraints or conflicts.  

Today's scripture tells of a time when God will bind Satan up for a thousand years.  Whether this is a real event or a vision;  Whatever your opinion of the millennium and its timing; there are some awesome things in this passage.  God wins.  Satan is put away.  We are freed up to live for God; to love and minister to each other.  And may that ministry include the smile of a child, the hug of a friend, good fellowship and the presence of our Lord. 

Join me today in thinking about what heaven will be like, and in trying to live each day as if a part of it were already here.

Friday

We don't make changes - God does.

Revelation 20: 7-9

When the thousand years are over, Satan will be released from his prison and will go out to deceive the nations in the four corners of the earth—Gog and Magog—and to gather them for battle. In number they are like the sand on the seashore. They marched across the breadth of the earth and surrounded the camp of Godʼs people, the city he loves. But fire came down from heaven and devoured them. 

Labor Day; Halloween; Veterans Day; Thanksgiving; Christmas; New Years, and we start over.  Time goes so quickly in the autumn.  And this year I've managed to throw in a job change, a near 1,000 mile relocation, an attempt to market an old house long distance, find a new place to live, and started adapting to a new business culture and role.  

Good time to make some positive changes too.  Eat better.  Move more.  Live more simply.  And those are all good things I hope to succeed at, but they don't bring eternal change.  We see in our scripture today that after God locked Satan up for a thousand years (about 4 times as long as the United States is - more than 33 times as long as I am old) he came out as evil and morally corrupt as he was when he was when he went in.  Left alone, we don't change, or if we do, it's not for the better.  

I pray for His guidance to identify the things in my life that are most offensive to Him. To realize and embrace how bad those things are for me.  To ask diligently and daily for His grace and strength to overcome them, and for forgiveness for my failures to do so.  And I believe that's the only way I can make changes in my life that lasts beyond a thousand years.   

Join me today in brutally cold self evaluation.  Maybe write down those things God reveals that displease Him.  Ask Him to forgive our sin and failures.  Ask Him to guide us in being the people we can be in Him.  And look forward to who we become as He makes us more like Him.  It's way better than the usual New Year's Resolution, and has a much greater potential benefit.

On Mon, Nov 28, 2016 at 4:56 PM, Kay and Walter <kay-walter@sbcglobal.net> wrote:

Jim,

If you would go ahead and get your devotions to me as soon as you can, I will wrap up my responsibilities.  I feel like I've gotten to know you through your writings and our brief conversations, even though I would not recognize you if I saw you(ha ha).  If you do come to Houston let me know.

Thank you very much,

Walter

hi Devo

good morning Devo



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Fwd: Daily Devotion

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From: Sugar Land Baptist Church <newsletter@sugarlandbaptist.org>
Date: Tuesday, June 2, 2015
Subject: Daily Devotion
To: jcvtx1800@gmail.com

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Daily Devotion June 2, 2015 The following Scriptures were read by our ministers during the Worship service on the day of Pastor Phil's passing, Sunday, May 31.                                      Psalm 42:1-5 - As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, my God. 2 My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When can I go and meet with God? 3 My tears have been my food day and night, while people say to me all day long, "Where is your God?" 4 These things I remember as I pour out my soul: how I used to go to the house of God under the protection of the Mighty One with shouts of joy and praise among the festive throng. 5 Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.                                                   2 Chronicles 7:15-16 - 15 Now my eyes will be open and my ears attentive to the prayers offered in this place. 16 I have chosen and consecrated this temple so that my Name may be there forever. My eyes and my heart will always be there.                           2 Corinthians 4:7-9, 16, 18 - 7 But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. 8 We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; 9 persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. 16 Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. 18 So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.                                 Colossians 3:15-17 - 15 Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. 16 Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. 17 And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.                                        Psalm 91:1-2 - Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. 2 I will say of the Lord, "He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust."                             Isaiah 41:10 - So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.                                John 6:33 - "For the bread of God is the bread that comes down from heaven and gives life to the world."                                 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 - 3 Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, 4 who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.

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Follow Me

Follow Me

John 21:1-25

AFTER THIS, Jesus let Himself be seen and revealed [Himself] again to the disciples, at the Sea of Tiberias. And He did it in this way: There were together Simon Peter, and Thomas, called the Twin, and Nathanael from Cana of Galilee, also the sons of Zebedee, (James & John) and two others of His disciples. Simon Peter said to them, I am going fishing! They said to him, And we are coming with you! So they went out and got into the boat, and throughout that night they caught nothing. Morning was already breaking when Jesus came to the beach and stood there. However, the disciples did not know that it was Jesus. So Jesus said to them, Boys (children), you do not have any meat (fish), do you? [Have you caught anything to eat along with your bread?] They answered Him, No! And He said to them, Cast the net on the right side of the boat and you will find [some]. So they cast the net, and now they were not able to haul it in for such a big catch (mass, quantity) of fish [was in it]. Then the disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, It is the Lord! Simon Peter, hearing him say that it was the Lord, put (girded) on his upper garment (his fisherman's coat, his outer tunic)–for he was stripped [for work]–and sprang into the sea. And the other disciples came in the small boat, for they were not far from shore, only some hundred yards away, dragging the net full of fish. When they got out on land (the beach), they saw a fire of coals there and fish lying on it [cooking], and bread. Jesus said to them, Bring some of the fish which you have just caught. So Simon Peter went aboard and hauled the net to land, full of large fish, 153 of them; and [though] there were so many of them, the net was not torn. Jesus said to them, Come [and] have breakfast. But none of the disciples ventured or dared to ask Him, Who are You? because they [well] knew that it was the Lord. Jesus came and took the bread and gave it to them, and so also [with] the fish. This was now the third time that Jesus revealed Himself (appeared, was manifest) to the disciples after He had risen from the dead. When they had eaten, Jesus said to Simon Peter, Simon, son of John, do you love Me more than these [others do–with reasoning, intentional, spiritual devotion, as one loves the Father]? He said to Him, Yes, Lord, You know that I love You [that I have deep, instinctive, personal affection for You, as for a close friend]. He said to him, Feed My lambs. Again He said to him the second time, Simon, son of John, do you love Me [with reasoning, intentional, spiritual devotion, as one loves the Father]? He said to Him, Yes, Lord, You know that I love You [that I have a deep, instinctive, personal affection for You, as for a close friend]. He said to him, Shepherd (tend) My sheep. He said to him the third time, Simon, son of John, do you love Me [with a deep, instinctive, personal affection for Me, as for a close friend]? Peter was grieved (was saddened and hurt) that He should ask him the third time, Do you love Me? And he said to Him, Lord, You know everything; You know that I love You [that I have a deep, instinctive, personal affection for You, as for a close friend]. Jesus said to him, Feed My sheep. I assure you, most solemnly I tell you, when you were young you girded yourself [put on your own belt or girdle] and you walked about wherever you pleased to go. But when you grow old you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will put a girdle around you and carry you where you do not wish to go. He said this to indicate by what kind of death Peter would glorify God. And after this, He said to him, Follow Me! But Peter turned and saw the disciple whom Jesus loved, following–the one who also had leaned back on His breast at the supper and had said, Lord, who is it that is going to betray You? When Peter saw him, he said to Jesus, Lord, what about this man? Jesus said to him, If I want him to stay (survive, live) until I come, what is that to you? [What concern is it of yours?] You follow Me! So word went out among the brethren that this disciple was not going to die; yet Jesus did not say to him that he was not going to die, but, If I want him to stay (survive, live) till I come, what is that to you? It is this same disciple who is bearing witness to these things and who has recorded (written) them; and we [well] know that his testimony is true. And there are also many other things which Jesus did. If they should be all recorded one by one [in detail], I suppose that even the world itself could not contain (have room for) the books that would be written. (‭John‬ ‭21 AMP)

Monday

Jim's divorce.

John 21

There were together Simon Peter, and Thomas, called the Twin, and Nathanael from Cana of Galilee, also the sons of Zebedee, (James & John) and two others of His disciples. Simon Peter said to them, I am going fishing! They said to him, And we are coming with you! So they went out and got into the boat, and throughout that night they caught nothing. Morning was already breaking when Jesus came to the beach and stood there.

Our scripture this week finds several of the disciples out fishing.   It was shortly after their Lord was crucified and their world was turned upside down to say the least.  Not exactly a group of college grads on a vacation, but a good chance to try and figure out what's next with other men you'd grown to love and trust.  Now we don't know much about what the disciples left behind to follow Jesus, but if we may create an illustration, let's see what these men might have had to say.

James, or Jim to his closest friends, was from outside appearances a typical good man.  From a nice family. He had held a good job and attended the synagogue on a regular basis.  All the right offerings made at the right times.  And he had taken a young bride at an early age and started his own family.   Then things changed.  He listened to his brother Johnny and they started listening to a young preacher.  Then they decided to leave home and follow this man. 

Now Jim hadn't been home in over three years, but once Jesus died, he checked in with the family.  His father Zebedee wasn't proud of him right now.  His wife and taken the children and left him.  Uncommon in those days perhaps, but I can relate.  He was alone.  He felt a failure.   His family gone, a stigma hanging over him, and now his master had died?    If this wasn't the bottom, he didn't want to go there!  But on a sunny morning, after a long night with no fish and too many self condemning thoughts, the sun rises.  He looks to the sea side and see a familiar face.  And in his heart, he hears a voice softly say…. Follow me. 

Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. (‭John‬ ‭14‬:‭27‬ KJV)

Tuesday

Pete's fired!

II Chronicles 15:7 But as for you, be strong and do not give up, for your work will be rewarded.

How about another fishing disciple  - I wonder if Pete might not have been thinking something like this...

Pete the Rock - yeah right.  I must have rocks in my head.  I used to be a good fisherman, and now…  (sigh).

I left my boat, my nets…  I dropped all of that to follow Jesus.  Three whirlwind years - being hated, seeing miracles, walking all over the country.  I could have worn out three pedometers.  And I loved hanging out with these guys.  Never knowing where dinner was coming from.  Whether or not there would be a roof over my head at night.  Seeing the storms come and go - I mean, I actually WALKED On Water!  Well, not too far, but I did.  I know I did.  But then… He was crucified?  I wanted to save Him. I wanted to be there for him.  But I denied Him.  And all they did to Him…. And then the tomb was empty….  And now, I can't even fish right.  I bring all the guys out here and promise them a good time, and all we get is water in the nets.  I have no breakfast to feed them.  I have no fish to sell.  I have no idea where to look or what to do next.  ….  Wait.   Who is that standing on the beach over there?  Do what?  Other side of the boat?  Like that will make a difference…  but - wait, I can’t even lift this.  Help me out guys… LOOK at the fish!!!  who…  Is it really... 

"It's the Lord".

I must go to Him….  I still want to follow Him!

Psalm 37:4 - Delight thyself in the Lord, and He will grant you the desires of your heart. 

Wednesday

Prodigal Nate. 

Luke 15:24

… for this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, but now he's found. 

How about another fishing disciple  - I wonder if this could have been Nathaniel's story?

Nate had been a troubled young man.  He had gone through a severe period of rebellion, not unlike the younger son in Jesus parable.    He had run away from home.  He had experimented with every unclean thing one could think of.  Women, men, drugs, alcohol, cheating, stealing, even eating ham.  He had thought it a big fun time until he hit bottom.  He ultimately found himself with no friends, no money, no home, almost no clothes.  Hung over and bleary eyed, he listened to a neighbor named Phillip sing the praises of some guy from Nazareth.  He had nothing better to do then listen about Jesus.  Didn't really believe it all, but Jesus words were surprising, and the promise of company and maybe a steady diet pulled Nate up and changed his world. 

Being with Jesus and the disciples for the last few years had been amazing, but now it was over.  The hole in his gut was as big as the Jerusalem sky at night.  Nate was afraid he would soon find himself in another gutter - Alone, hungry, and without a compass.  He looked to the shore thinking about how much he missed Jesus and how badly he needed a direction.  He saw the silhouette of a man and  his heart heard Jesus voice calling "follow me".    

Thursday

Johnny's wife.

Just then a woman who had been subject to bleeding for twelve years came up behind him and touched the edge of his cloak. She said to herself, “If I only touch his cloak, I will be healed.” Jesus turned and saw her. “Take heart, daughter,” he said, “your faith has healed you.” And the woman was healed at that moment. (‭Matthew‬ ‭9‬:‭20-22‬ NIV)

Johnny spent most of the fishing night sitting in the back of the boat, listening to the gentle waves slapping the side.  So much had happened on the last few years.  He thought back to the first time he learned his wife was sick.  The bleeding disease. They had endured it for years, with her spending much of her time at her parents where her mom cared for her, while Johnny fished to earn a living.  Then about four years ago he met another John, this one a weird looking baptist.  His message drew Johnny from the sea often to hear him preach.  And then… Jesus.  And a chance to maybe be a part of something bigger than himself.  Bigger than his illness-filled family.  Bigger than…. 

So Johnny left his family and hit the road with Jesus and his friends.  So much happened.   The biggest moment seemed to be the one where his wife came to see Jesus and the disciples pass by.  He still couldn't believe her faith, and his failure.  She knew Jesus could, would heal her.  It never crossed Johnny's mind.  But she reached out and touched Jesus.  And Jesus felt her healing.  And that was the moment he truly committed to following Jesus.  

Suddenly, his concentration was broken as he realized the guys had finally caught a huge mess of fish.  He looked toward the shore and could not hold back the words jumping from his heart with joy.  "It's the Lord."   And I will still follow Him.  

Friday

Lonesome Thom. 

John 20:

24 Now Thomas, called the Twin, one of the twelve, was not with them when Jesus came. 25 The other disciples therefore said to him, “We have seen the Lord.”

So he said to them, “Unless I see in His hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and put my hand into His side, I will not believe.”

26 And after eight days His disciples were again inside, and Thomas with them. Jesus came, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, “Peace to you!” 27 Then He said to Thomas, “Reach your finger here, and look at My hands; and reach your hand here, and put it into My side. Do not be unbelieving, but believing.”

28 And Thomas answered and said to Him, “My Lord and my God!”

Thom had been in and out of groups all his life, but he'd never been part of anything like the brotherhood he had with the other men on this boat, and his Lord Jesus.  He'd certainly had his moments of social awkwardness.  Speaking out of his willingness to die with Jesus, and seeing Lazarus healed instead.  Even blurting out (to Jesus Himself no less) that he didn't know where Jesus was going, so how could he know the way.   Thom smiled thinking about the blessing their small group received when Jesus had gently explained.  Without even making Thom feel bad. 

But Thom fell away when it all went to…. right after the…. After Jesus….   A tear wet his cheek, and the soft sea breeze wiped it away.  He remembered his feelings.  The loss.  The emptiness.  The sadness.  The loneliness.  And then, when he pulled together every bit of strength he had, and walked into that upper room only to hear he had missed his Lord.   It was almost too much.   But Jesus loved him so much, or at least that's how Thom thought about it, that He came back to them there a second time just to see me.   Now I know I'll follow Him. 

Suddenly drawn from his reverie by a splash, he smiles and watches Pete swimming towards the shore.  Joyfully grabbing an oar to help take the fish laden boat in, Thom smiles and hums to himself the old Bill Gaither song…

Oh, this old ship's been through battles before

Storms and tempests and rocks on the shore

Tho' the hull may be battered, 

Inside it's safe and dry

It will carry its cargo to the port in the sky.

Let the anthems ring out, Songs of victory swell

For the Church triumphant is alive and well.

 

Beth, Sorry to be late. Hope these will work for you. Change what you need to, and thank you for letting me participate in this ministry. God bless, Jim...

2015.01.20 - 1 Timothy Lesson 10

Monday

Who's responsible?

Now the Spirit expressly says that in latter times some will depart from the faith, giving heed to deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons, speaking lies in hypocrisy, having their own conscience seared with a hot iron, (‭I Timothy‬ ‭4‬:‭1-2‬ NKJV)

Growing up, I felt that everyone else was telling me things and trying to make me do things their way.  The list of those people was long.  They included parents, a big brother, neighbors, and even my grandmother at home.  At school, it was the principals, teachers and coaches, then college professors and administrators.   Church wasn't any better; the preacher, the music leader, the Sunday school teachers, the youth directors, deacons, and friends' parents.  Now I also have a wife, children, more neighbors, bosses, employees, doctors, and customers who all seem so certain of what's right.  Add in political leaders, news casters, denominational leaders, and the list gets so large, that it's a wonder I can decide what to wear every day.  

But the fact is, that while these people all provide me direction and influence what I do, I make the decisions.  Our scripture today truly states that some will depart from the faith.   I don't think this is referring to losing salvation, but to choosing not to follow as closely as you may have in the past, and not nearly as closely as God wants you to.  And I've done it.  No, I'm not abandoning my faith.  I'm not giving up on my relationship with Christ and I haven't lost the awe that God would sacrifice His son Jesus for me.  But Even today, I'm choosing not to be active in a local church.  I'm not regularly spending quality time in His word.  I'm not leading my family as a sprirtual leader should.  And this passage convicts me.  I'm not a bad man.  I'm not immoral or unethical.  I'm not stealing from work, worshipping idols, or plotting to overthrow the government.   I am merely a sinful man, again reminded of the rich blessings God has for me, that I am failing to accept.  And I realize that a more Godly lifestyle awaits, but I have to seek it.  

Lord, forgive me.   

There are so many ways I fail to be the best I can, and we both know that even my best is unworthy of your love, mercy, and grace.   I ask that you will be with me today.  Help me choose to not depart from your ways, but to seek you. Give me the desire to know you better.  Give me the hunger to seek a more Godly life, and to learn this week with those reading along with me to seek, to want, and to accept the training that will lead me closer to you.   

Tuesday

Prayer

Matthew 6:33 But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. (NKJV)

The sixth chapter of Matthew seems so practical.  If I want to train myself for Godliness, I should seek His Kingdom, and in just a few verses it covers several things I need to do please God.  It lays out some of the basics, including prayer (the Lord's Prayer is in Matthew 6:9-13).

When I think of prayer, I see so many aspects.  I believe prayer is talking with God. To God.  Listening for God.   It something I can do anywhere.  Anytime.  Alone in my quiet time.  At church among other believers.  In a restaurant with a bible study group.  Mentally, verbally, or in writing.  I can intervene for the sick, those who are lost, and those who have just lost their way.  I can spend hours, or merely a fleeting moment.  I can voice my deepest fears, and my greatest doubts without a fear of rejection.  I can share my human anger when things don't seem to go my way, without fear of destruction.  I can ask for guidance and direction in things large and small.  

So today, I want to train myself in Godliness using the discipline of prayer.  I want to daily spend time with God, and I'm praying especially today for those reading these words.  Join me seeking to grow closer to God, by investing time regularly in prayer with Him.  

Wednesday

Study

Study and be eager and do your utmost to present yourself to God approved (tested by trial), a workman who has no cause to be ashamed, correctly analyzing and accurately dividing [rightly handling and skillfully teaching] the Word of Truth. (‭2 Timothy‬ ‭2‬:‭15‬ AMP)

... you will be a worthy steward and a good minister of Christ Jesus, ever nourishing your own self on the truths of the faith and of the good [Christian] instruction which you have closely followed. (‭1 Timothy‬ ‭4‬:‭6‬ AMP)

I've been blessed to learn many things.  In school, I was able to make pretty good grades without too much study.  In life, not so much.   I've learned many lessons the hard way with many (confessed and forgiven) sins and scars to show for it.  I have also learned that anything worth having comes at a cost.  

As I have thought on the topic of Godliness the last few days, I am feeling a renewed desire to grow.  To be more like Him.  Our verse today, speaks to nourishing ourselves (our souls) on the truths of the faith and of the good doctrine.  I can only come to know God better by learning about Him.  His plans.  His love.  His mercy and grace.  The history of His people.  The best place to find that is in His word, and regular time spent there is an investment with an infinite return.  

There are different ways to dive into the bible.  I've tried many of them and found each to fill a separate but significant place in my journey to Godliness.   I have a group of Christian men from different denominations I've met with pretty much weekly for nearly 8 years who take a passage a week, read it and share what it means to us or how we understand it.  There's more  formal bible studies like Sunday school where a diverse group trust a leader to help them grasp bible truths.  I've even led some of these, and found it true that the teacher learns more than the student.   Christian book stores have good literature broken out by topic or bible book for individual or group studies.  There are good pastors like Phil who are blessed to be able to share so clearly the word of God.  There are even podcasts now with ministers who break the bread of God into nite sized pieces that even I can understand.  There are even free aps that will read the bible to you as you drive!  

And if I want to grow in Godliness, I need to commit to regularly feeding my head and my heart with the word of God.  Join me in promising God to seek His word regularly.  

Thursday

Discipline 

Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. Therefore I do not run like someone running aimlessly; I do not fight like a boxer beating the air. (‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭9‬:‭24-26‬ NIV)

Twice in my life I have been consistent in a work out program, and I really enjoyed the rewards.  The first time was in college, and it was a weight lifting (it's not polite to laugh) when some of my best friends and I decided to work out together.  After the initial stages, I looked forward to the sweat.  The fellowship.  The way I felt afterwards, and even the way I looked (again, it's not polite to laugh).  The second time was shortly after college when I was a regular racquetball player and met two to three times a week to play.   It was the most fun I ever had exercising.  I was in the best cardio shape of my life.  I could play three hours of singles and had a 32" waist.  Today, I own balls and gloves and bats and rackets and bicycles and golf clubs and...  I'm 30+ pounds overweight.   I can get winded climbing a flight or two of stairs.  I sit too much and move too little.  TV and computers were bad enough, but now with an iPad and a DVR?  Who needs to move?

What changed?   I did.  I have not been committed to my health - to the diet and exercise discipline necessary to achieve the optimum health God has planned for me.  And every time I try for a few days to make good choices, I let the aching muscles, the growling tummy, the business travel, and a dozen other things get in the way, and I fail, because I do not choose daily to do the little things needed to correct my course.  

And I realize, as I seek Godliness, it applies to all areas of my life.  Yes, the prayer and bible study are essential components of a successful Christian life.  And I know I'll likely never again run the 50 yard dash or a try a half marathon.  But if I want to truly be the best disciple I can be, I must consider my body.  I want to be here on earth, healthy and productive, for as long as God allows.  So along with the spiritual disciplines, I need to care for vessel God provided me.  

Join me today in choosing just one aspect of physical health and commit to someone else to do something different for a month that makes us healthier (and more able to develop a Godly lifestyle). 

No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize. (‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭9‬:‭27‬ NIV)

Friday

Teach

That is why we labor and strive, because we have put our hope in the living God, who is the Savior of all people, and especially of those who believe.  Command and teach these things.  1 Timothy 4:11-12

Ok class, let's review.  So far, we've learned that in training ourselves for living the Christian life, we start with a conscious decision.  A responsible choice to seek Godliness.  And some of the ways we proceed in that process involves the rather obvious.  Prayer and study.  Talking with God and seeking to know Him better through the bible and learning from others.  Then we add in the respecting the body God gave us for this earthly journey by exercising and eating right, leading to physical and spiritual health.   

But it's Friday, and we have another day and we need one more devotion.   What could be left?   

Think back to when you started your Spiritual journey.  If your story is like mine, someone else was involved.  A speaker shared a story.  A minister preached a sermon. You met someone who was different.  And you wanted more.  Today, I know I have a chance to be THAT someone else.  I'm not a preacher, but I have taught a class or two.  I have stories of things God has done for me that I can share.  I can Try to live a life that makes others want to know the a God I have.  And the student becomes a teacher.  And the circle is complete.  

Join me today in committing to be aware of the opportunities you have to use the knowledge and talents you have to teach His ways to others.  

The Lord said to him, "?.. Now go; I will help you speak and will teach you what to say." (‭Exodus‬ ‭4‬:‭11-12‬ NIV)

Christmas Eve 2014

Many churches, not all, have lost their role, and become a closed society.  Many are too large and corporate to connect their members.   Some is personal failings in the leaders.   Some is organizational - a member who was regular for over a year suddenly disappears, and the next communication they get is months later asking for a tithe commitment.  Services becoming so accepting that there is no respect for the real message.  No need to dress up, it's just a holy sanctuary - those shorts and sandals you wash the car in are fine, but you'd never even wear them to walmart.   No need for reverence there, drinks, snacks and side conversations are regularly ongoing, even by ushers.   New members seeking to engage take minor roles hoping to connect and get a chance to grow get pigeon holed and left to their role until they silently fade away.  No more hymns - don't connect to the young they say, and instead repetitive praise songs without doctrinal review sell a happy Jesus, who is only one face of our loving savior.  The expectations on staff become that of constant action and entertainment, not a meaningful reflection and self examination.   That might not feel good.   

And I know staff who see this, and try desperately to lead beyond as Christ deserves who aren't supported by those they seek to minister to.   Another sign of our too soft society, and social Christianity.   

And on days when I wax philiosphical, I thank God for those who I know try and lead the sheep.  And those sheep who, despite the worldly influences, seek that leadership and to know and feel the face of God through a personal relationship with Christ.   

Happy birthday Jesus, and thank you for saving me and being my friend.

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It's as simple as two words

Decision and discipline.

Joshua 24:15 (KJV)

 And if it seem evil unto you to serve the LORD, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.

Blog Hits

I've just noticed, there have actually been quite a few folks read my blog.  I'd really like it if those of you who do would leave me a comment or something to let me know a little about my audience.  Are you someone I know, or someone who just randomly found this?  What are your thoughts about these devotions?  

Thanks,
Jim...

Devotions on prayer.

Here you go Beth.  

Thanks for all you do!

Hope you had a good vacation Walter!  I missed you.  

Jim... 

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Monday

In this manner, therefore, pray: Our Father in heaven, Hallowed be Your name. Your kingdom come. Your will be done On earth as it is in heaven. ...   For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen. (‭Matthew‬ ‭6‬ NKJV)

When I was a senior in high school, Butch Bennett was my physics teacher.  He was also a Christian.  He started a before school group that met to do a bible study.  Not one of the organized named groups you'd recognize like Campus Crusade or Fellowship of Christian Athletes, just a small group of students and one teacher with the same Savior.  

I don't really remember much about the group, who was in it, or the materials we studied.  But I do remember one acronym I learned there, that I still use almost daily even today - nearly 40 years later.   It was a little reminder of how to pray, and I'd like to share it with you.   

A - Adoration (Praise) 

C

T 

S

Our society today seems to think it is very self sufficient and powerful.  And it's partly true.  We have the power of the Internet at our fingertips on smart phones everywhere we go (apparently including the stall next to me in the airport restroom, but I digress).  We have new cars that not only have GPS and back up cameras, but some that parallel park themselves.  We have more cable shopping channels than we do real stores it seems.  Some millionaire athletes and movie stars giving focus to many good cases while others serve as really bad examples.  Many are living longer and better, and most anything seems within our power.   

But that's wrong. (Please forgive my use of a word that has quickly become unacceptable in our politically correct world).  We don't have it all together, and we aren't in control.  God made the heavens and the earth.  He gave His only son Jesus to die for sinners like me who had no other hope for salvation.  He is more awesome than we can even imagine, and He loves us.  And He wants a relationship with each one of us.  Wow.  

When I talk to Him, I try to start the conversation recognizing His perfection.  His beauty.  His kindness. His love.  His majesty.  Praising Him just for who He is.  

Although I'm more of a hymn junky, there's a praise song that expresses my adoration of my Lord better than I can. Kari Jobe wrote the Revelation Song.  Some of the lyrics are below. Read them slowly, and reverently.  Hear the melody in your head if you know it. Or pull it up on line, and play it with your eyes closed, and I think you'll feel yourself to be in God's holy presence (I have the Guy Penrod version with me all the time on my phone and iPad).  And if that's not a great way to start prayer, I don't know what is.   

Holy, Holy, Holy
Is the Lord God Almighty
Who was, and is, and is to come
With all creation I sing:
Praise to the King of Kings! 
You are my everything, 
And I will adore You…! 

Clothed in rainbows, of living color
Flashes of lightning, rolls of thunder
Blessing and honor, strength and
Glory and power be
To You the Only Wise King, 

Filled with wonder, 
Awestruck wonder
At the mention of Your Name
Jesus, Your Name is Power
Breath, and Living Water
Such a marvelous mystery

And the best part, is I know God adores you and me too.   

Tuesday 

In this manner, therefore, pray: ... forgive us our debts, As we forgive our debtors.    (‭Matthew‬ ‭6‬ NKJV)

Psalm 51:1 Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love; according to your great compassion blot out my transgressions.  2 Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin.  3 For I know my transgressions, and my sin is always before me.  4 Against you, you only, have I sinned and done what is evil in your sight; so you are right in your verdict and justified when you judge.  (King David's prayer after becoming aware if his sin with Bathsheba.)

A - Adoration 

C - Confession

T

S

It's a lot harder for me to get excited about confession than it is praise and adoration.    I don't like being imperfect, and I really don't like letting someone else know my failings (although there are many and they are obvious).  Being Baptist forever I've tried the "forgive me for all my sins" method of quickly lumping all I've done into a short six word phrase so I can quickly move on.  I rationalize that God already knows everything so it's not necessary for me to waste my, I mean God's, time going into boring and embarrassing detail...  But after talking with a Catholic friend, I've had an ephiany.   God does know everything I've done wrong.  Every sin of commission, and omission.  When I did it, why I did it, what was in my heart when I did it.  The confession my friend makes to the priest, is not for the priest.  The confession I make when I pray is not for God.  My confession is for me.  Just as David needed to be explicitly aware of his sin with Bathsheba, I need to face specific failings in my life, so I can acknowledge each one and commit to doing my best to improve.  To accept the forgiveness for each foul sin and the love of a merciful God. 

And each day, there are things I need to confess.  I was irritated at my wife for something she can't help.  I wasted time being lazy when there are things I needed to do and would have been blessed if I had.  I procrastinated on some important things, and will be unhappy later when I need to catch up.  I could go on, and on, but I won't.  Not here with you, but tonight before I go to sleep, I hope to spend some time with my Lord.  I'll start out praising Him, and then face my failings in His non-judgemental presence.  Totally honest. Unafraid of His reaction. 

And then, like King David, I will receive His blessed cleaning and forgiveness:

7 Cleanse me with hyssop, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow.
8 Let me hear joy and gladness; let the bones you have crushed rejoice.
9 Hide your face from my sins and blot out all my iniquity.
10 Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.
11 Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me.
12 Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.

Wednesday

Psalm 95:2 Let us come before him with thanksgiving...

A - Adoration 

C - Confession 

T - Thanksgiving 

S

What are you thankful for?  I'm thankful for so many things. 

Some are just little things, like a parking place in a crowded parking lot.  An order of really hot French fries at lunch.  The intense little pug who greats me when I come home from work and licks my ears.  The "needs gas" light not coming on when it's raining.  

Some I see as little things, but in reality, they aren't.  Enough (too much?) food.  A bed to sleep on.  A home with a roof to keep the rain out.  Transportation.  A smart phone and satellite tv.  Freedom.   

Some I know are really big things.  Good friends who care about me.  Tracy's improved health.  A good job with benefits like health insurance ($98,000 hospital bills can be a bit unsettling!).  A modest 19 year old daughter with good grades and a great head on her shoulders. A good church. 

Some are almost humanly unbelievable.  A Virgin birth.  Jesus' sinless life.  His death for me.  His plan for Heaven.  

And as I look through lists like this one, it reminds me of the need to be aware and thankful.  To tell God thank you for big things and small.  To take nothing for granted.  

Join me today in seeking to be aware of things around us and offering up a word or two of thanks.   Don't try and save them up for bed time, or tomorrow's quiet time, or Sunday.  You don't have to close your eyes and bow your head to talk to God, or go to a specific place. He's everywhere, and loves to spend time with you.  Just be aware, and remember where the blessing comes from.  And simply say thank you. 

Thursday

In this manner, therefore, pray: ... Give us this day our daily bread. (‭Matthew‬ ‭6‬ NKJV)

A - Adoration 

C - Confession 

T - Thanksgiving 

S - Supplication 

Here, I am using supplication to mean "plead humbly".  Originally, I thought supplication was a $5 work for "ask" that fit the acronym.  And while I still think "ask" is a fair interpretation, as I grow older, to "plead humbly" more correctly describes how I think God wants us to ask Him for things.  Maybe it's because the things I want now are not typically immediately addressed.  Sure, there are the wants I experience like a child at Christmas (new car, motorcycle accessories, bigger garage, long vacation, etc.), but I am learning those are not the things that bring long term happiness.  And honestly, those are not needs... Didn't God already promise to meet our needs?

And my God will liberally supply (fill to the full) your every need according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus. (‭Philippians‬ ‭4‬:‭19‬ AMP)

(Now, I have on more than one occasion learned that what I thought I needed, was not really a need, but that's another topic for another day). 

Things like cars and vacations are honestly not things I can go before God and plead for at this point in my life and be humble.  But there are things my soul longs for that are worth repeatedly and humbly pleading for before God.  

I want my son make good decisions and become fully responsible for himself.  I want my daughter to work hard in college and learn how to translate her passions into a career that allows her to care for herself and enjoy her life.  I want Tracy to overcome the challenges she has faced in the recent years - to continue to improve her health and live a long, happy, and healthy life with me.  I want to be part of a vibrant and loving church again where I want to go, and where I can serve my Lord and His people.  And I'll keep asking for those.  My pleadings may evolve, and some things will certainly be added over the years to come, but these are things I truly want, things that I believe can honor God.  And as I think on theses things, I'm reminded of a verse I first heard years ago while I was still in school:

Delight yourself in the LORD; And He will give you the desires of your heart. (‭Psalms‬ ‭37‬:‭4‬ NASB)

Today, I hope you will join me in delighting in the Lord and pleading humbly with Him for things you truly want.  For if we are truly delighting in Him, our desires will be within His will, and granting those desires will be His blessing to us.  Trust Him to provide the things you desire in your heart in His own perfect time and way.   

Friday

For some reason, I've wrestled with the topic of prayer for a long time.  Even before accepting this assignment, and even more since.  For several weeks, I've tried to think of a way to wrap up this series in some way that you might remember and find a blessing in.  And all that has come to me is a series of words.  But maybe that is the summary.  

Resistance - I know I need to pray. I feel better when I pray.  God wants me to spend time with Him.  But I too often exhibit resistance.  

Persistence - but His pull continues. I may try to ignore it.  I may pretend I'm too busy.  Believe I have nothing significant to say to God, but He continues to whisper in my ear.  Unrelenting.  

Consistency - I try to think of what is it He wants?   He has a whole world out there, and I'm a small and insignificant piece.  And I'm pretty blessed already.  Things aren't too bad.  But He continues to pull, until at some point I realize my

Dependence - I really am small and insignificant.  I can do so very little on my own.  And so little of what I can do alone is good, pure, helpful to others. I'm selfish and lazy, and I need someone a lot bigger, a lot stronger, a lot wiser to lean on.  And I learn

Repentance -  as I am humbled.  Alone in the dark corner or my life, my head bowed, i join the tax collector in a simple prayer...

 ...the tax collector, standing afar off, would not so much as raise his eyes to heaven, but beat his breast, saying, 'God, be merciful to me a sinner!' (‭Luke‬ ‭18‬:‭13‬ NKJV)

And His love envelops me.  And I pray today, that His love will cover you today; and hold you close.  

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