JUNE 30, 2014. SHOW YOUR LOVE NOW!

MONDAY JUNE 30, 2014.

'...He has commanded us to love one another...' 2 John 1:6 NLT

Show Your Love Now!

Each morning pray: 'Lord, whether or not I get anything else done, help me to spend this day loving You and loving others, because that's what Your Word says life is all about.' If you do that, you'll treat those around you more graciously. And people will notice it. You'll start winning in areas where you've lost. The more time you give to someone, the more you reveal their importance to you. It's not enough to tell them they're important, you must prove it by investing in them. The best way to spell love is T-I-M-E. Love is not what you think or feel about others; no, it's how much you give of yourself to them. Men in particular struggle with this. They say, 'I don't understand my wife and children. I provide everything they need. What more could they want?' They want you! They want your attention! Love concentrates so intently on another that it forgets itself. This kind of attention says, 'I value you enough to give you my most precious asset - my time.' Why is now the best time to express your love? Because you don't know how long you'll have the opportunity to do so. Circumstances change, people die, children grow up. The truth is, you've no guarantee of tomorrow. If you want to express your love, you'd better do it now. So, who do you need to start spending more time with? What do you need to cut out of your schedule to make that possible? The best use of life is love, the best expression of love is time, and the best time to love is now.

JUNE 29, 2014. FINANCIAL FREEDOM

SUNDAY JUNE 29, 2014.

'I will give you...right desires...' Ezekiel 36:26 TLB

Financial Freedom

The Millionaire Next Door is a bestselling book about two people living on the same street, in comparable homes, working at similar jobs. But by age fifty, one is financially secure while the other is drowning in debt. The problem isn't money; it's unwillingness to defer gratification. We want what we want now! Many times we associate happiness with spending, so when we feel down we go shopping. Think about it: When you got your last bonus or tax refund, was your first thought, 'What can I buy?' Be honest! Paul says, 'Do not conform to...this [world's value system]...be transformed by...renewing your mind...' (Romans 12:2 NIV) When it comes to money, you must ask God to give you 'right desires'. Robert Orben said, 'Every day I...read the Forbes magazine list of the richest people in America. If my name isn't on it, I get up and go to work!' The Bible says, 'Do not despise...small beginnings...' (Zechariah 4:10 NLT) Big things are a culmination of small ones. So: Give God the first tenth of your income, save ten percent, and live on the rest (Proverbs 3:9). As your earnings grow, invest 50 percent of the increase in a 'financial freedom account'. Once you stop spending every penny you earn and start saving, an interesting dynamic comes into play. The act of disciplining yourself to save even modest amounts will empower you financially, spiritually and emotionally. Abraham Heschel said, 'Self-respect is the root of discipline. Your sense of dignity grows with the ability to say no to yourself.' In addition to helping you achieve financial freedom, self-control enriches every area of your life.

JUNE 28, 2014. THOUGHTS ON THE TABERNACLE (3)

SATURDAY JUNE 28, 2014.

'...Go into all the world and preach...' Mark 16:15 NKJV

Thoughts on the Tabernacle (3)

The third element in the building of the tabernacle was equal access. The word 'tabernacle' means tent of meeting. It's where God met and interacted with His people. So He positioned it in the middle of the camp, surrounded by each of the twelve tribes. Everybody had to be able to stand in the door of their tent and see God at work. Why? Because God dwelt and worked in the midst of all twelve tribes! There's an important lesson here for us. God doesn't see a white church or a black church or a yellow church or a brown church. Jesus said, '...I will build My church...' (Matthew 16:18 NIV) We have been called to provide everybody, regardless of culture, colour or creed, with equal access to God through Christ. There's a cute story about two children playing church when one says to the other, 'What abomination does your family belong to?' When God shows us a great truth or specific revelation we must share it, not put a fence around it. The last thing Jesus said to His disciples was, 'Go into all the world and preach the Gospel to every creature.' And what did they do? 'They went out and preached everywhere, the Lord working with them and confirming the word through the accompanying signs...' (Mark 16:20 NKJV) Just because your church has a certain theology and worship style doesn't mean you get to ride first class while others travel in the guards' van. No, when God makes someone a member of His redeemed family, you must treat them as your brother and sister. So try to remember that!

JUNE 27, 2014. THOUGHTS ON THE TABERNACLE (2)

FRIDAY JUNE 27, 2014.

'...Make everything according to the pattern I have shown you...' Exodus 25:40 NLT

Thoughts on the Tabernacle (2)

The second element that marked the building of the Old Testament tabernacle was excellence. God condemns perfectionism because it stifles our creativity and robs us of all sense of progress. And Jesus condemned those who gave to impress others. 'When you do a charitable deed, do not sound a trumpet before you as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory from men. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward.' (Matthew 6:2 NKJV) But if you think this means you can just offer God anything you feel like, you're sorely mistaken. When it comes to serving, God wants you to aspire to excellence. God said to Moses: 'And this is the offering which you shall take from them: gold, silver, and bronze... And let them make Me a sanctuary, that I may dwell among them. According to all that I show you, that is, the pattern of the tabernacle and the pattern of all its furnishings, just so you shall make it.' (Exodus 25:3-9 NKJV) Why did God ask for gold? Because He wanted the best not anything sloppy or second-rate. Guess where Luke records Jesus sat when He went to church. Beside the treasury, watching people give. 'Then a poor widow came by and dropped in two small coins. I tell you the truth, Jesus said, this poor widow has given more than all the rest of them. For they have given a tiny part of their surplus, but she, poor as she is, has given everything she has.' (Luke 21:2-4 NLT) So, give God your best!

JUNE 26, 2014. THOUGHTS ON THE TABERNACLE (1)

THURSDAY JUNE 26, 2014.

'...bring Me an offering...' Exodus 25:2 NKJV

Thoughts on the Tabernacle (1)

When it came time to build the Old Testament tabernacle, God said to Moses, 'See to it that you make them according to the pattern which was shown you.' (Exodus 25:40 NKJV) Whether you're building a relationship, a career, a business or a ministry, it will always require several elements: Sacrifice - the building of the tabernacle begins with these words: 'Speak to the children of Israel, that they bring Me an offering. From everyone who gives it willingly with his heart you shall take My offering.' Question: why would a God who is rich enough to pave His streets with gold, ask you for an offering? Because only when you have a personal investment in something will you give it your full attention, treasure it, prioritise it and protect it. Pastor, ask the Lord for the plan, then ask the people for the money, not vice versa. Paul wrote about the generosity of the Christians in Macedonia: 'They are being tested by many troubles, and they are very poor. But they are also filled with abundant joy, which has overflowed in rich generosity. For I can testify that they gave not only what they could afford, but far more and they did it of their own free will. They begged us again and again for the privilege of sharing...They even did more than we had hoped, for their first action was to give themselves to the Lord and to us, just as God wanted them to do.' (2 Corinthians 8:2-5 NLT) So, are you willing to sacrifice?

JUNE 25, 2014. TURN YOUR WEAKNESS INTO A WEAPON

WEDNESDAY JUNE 25, 2014.

'I know it is all for Christ's good...' 2 Corinthians 12:10 NLT

Turn Your Weakness into a Weapon

Speaking of his 'thorn', Paul writes: 'Three different times I begged the Lord to take it away. Each time He said, "My gracious favor is all you need. My power works best in your weakness." So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may work through me. Since I know it is all for Christ's good, I am quite content with my weaknesses... For when I am weak, then I am strong.' (2 Corinthians 12:8-10 NLT) Paul learned how to turn his weakness into a weapon by allowing it to drive him closer to God. And that's a lesson you must learn too. The NLT Bible paraphrases Christ's first beatitude: 'God blesses those who are poor and realize their need for Him, for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs.' (Matthew 5:3) Now, you can't just accept your character flaws and areas of defeat and say, 'Well, I guess that's just the way I am.' No, you must confront each area of weakness, confess it, and 'let Christ take over'. You will always struggle with one thing or another. Paul recognized this: '...But this precious treasure - this light and power that now shine within us - is held in perishable containers, that is, in our weak bodies. So everyone can see that our glorious power is from God and is not our own.' (2 Corinthians 4:7 NLT) Like common pottery, fragile, flawed and easily broken, God will use you as you surrender and allow Him to work through you.

JUNE 24, 2014. DON'T LIVE AN UNEXAMINED LIFE

TUESDAY JUNE 24, 2014.

'Search me, O God, and know my heart...' Psalm 139:23 NIV

Don't Live an Unexamined Life

When you live an unexamined life - it shows! One pastor writes: 'I've read many Christian authors who say that if Christ's followers aren't growing, it's because they don't make a habit of evaluating their lives... Those authors were describing me. I was always on the go, never looking deeply inside... I never did the kind of reflection that leads to growth, and I was paying the price - committing the same stupid sins over and over, living with the same heavy load of guilt. So I made a difficult decision: I decided that each day I would try to honestly assess my soul's condition. I would look inside myself and write down what I saw... Feeling awkward and embarrassed, I started to write. "God, here are some areas of failure in my life. They aren't going away, so I might as well take a look at them." Or, "Here's a relationship or habit I'm concerned about. It's not good and I don't know how to improve it." ...After writing a paragraph or two I would reflect on what I had written.' There are benefits to keeping a spiritual diary of your walk with God that you can't get any other way: (1) It forces you to slow down and examine the effectiveness of what you're doing. (2) It frees you to ask, 'Why am I doing this? How do I really feel about it? What is God saying to me?' (3) By writing even a page a day, in one year you will have a 365-day record of prayers answered and lessons learned!

JUNE 23, 2014. SET BOUNDARIES (4)

MONDAY JUNE 23, 2014.

'I can do all things...' Philippians 4:13 NKJV

Set Boundaries (4)

Flexible boundaries: Rigid boundaries cause you to shut other people out and live unprepared and ill-equipped for the give-and-take that healthy relationships require. Permeable boundaries leave you defenseless against 'users' who feel entitled to manipulate you and who expect to be taken care of at your expense. But flexible boundary people are competent for living their own life, yet with a balanced and healthy interest in others. They can be generous in sharing their time, compassion and resources, without becoming overly responsible, or betraying their God-given duty to be the unique person He made them, just to please others. They say, 'I can be in a relationship with you, without giving up being me!' They don't let you violate their boundaries, and they know how to keep from violating yours. Unlike rigid people, they bend and adjust as circumstances require, without becoming overwhelmed, defensive, resentful, blaming or reactive. In tough situations they roll with the punches, stay focused and draw on a well of inner strength which God provides. Paul was such a person: 'I've learned the secret of being content in any and every situation... I can do all this through Him who gives me strength.' (Philippians 4:12-13 NIV) People and circumstances don't control them; they flex, and let God take charge. They are helpful, but they don't feel guilty because they can't 'fix' everybody. Their boundaries enable them to adjust to circumstances. They practice the principle, 'Bear one another's burdens...' (Galatians 6:2 NKJV), without over-functioning or being responsible for others.

JUNE 22, 2014. SET BOUNDARIES (3)

SUNDAY JUNE 22, 2014.

'...like a city with broken-down walls.' Proverbs 25:28 NLT

Set Boundaries (3)

Permeable boundaries. Well-adjusted people find the right balance which allows them to invite others into their personal space without allowing infiltration, manipulation or domination. They know how to say "yes" to what's healthy and "no" to what's not. Permeable boundary people, on the other hand, allow others to permeate their lives at will, siphon off their time and energy, dictate their options, and deprive them of other important relationships. Unable to say "no", they permit others to make them feel guilty, obligated, uncaring, or even unchristian if they withhold what's demanded. They inconvenience themselves, their families and their friendships to facilitate the endless demands of the seemingly helpless, disempowered, irresponsible user, believing they are being kind and helpful. The helper's toll is immense, often leading to emotional, physical, social and spiritual overload, while the helped feels increasingly dependent, irresponsible and entitled - not appreciating, and sometimes even resenting, the helper's efforts. Permeable boundary people are unaware that their 'open' sign is always illuminated, attracting a deluge of other people's needs they feel personally responsible for. They carry the weight of much that's wrong in the world, feeling exhausted, anxious, inadequate and guilty, taking it personally that they can't do more and fix things. And it leaves them feeling 'used'. 'A person without self-control is like a city with broken-down walls.' Understand this: You can't take charge of your own life while you're overwhelmed feeling responsible for other people's lives. Set some boundaries, and live the life God gave you to live!

JUNE 21, 2014. SET BOUNDARIES (2)

SATURDAY JUNE 21, 2014.

'...Its parts should have equal concern for each other.' 1 Corinthians 12:25 NIV

Set Boundaries (2)

When you buy a house, you need clearly marked boundary lines to let you know what's yours and what's not. Good boundaries make good neighbors. The Bible says, 'Seldom set foot in your neighbor’s house - too much of you, and you will be hated.' (Proverbs 25:17 NIV) So, how close is too close? Let's look at three kinds of boundaries we establish between ourselves and others. Rigid boundaries. These are designed to keep others at arms' length and protect your private, self-absorbed world. Without saying a word, your attitude says: 'Keep out, trespassers will be prosecuted!' Why do we create such boundaries? Fear! We fear being known, controlled, hurt, or feeling inadequate and inferior. And our rigidity prevents intimacy. Our unwillingness to be vulnerable or to compromise leaves us defensive, isolated and lonely. Closeness and intimacy are things we long for, yet fear and avoid. We think, 'You can't hurt me if I keep you at a safe distance.' But it doesn't work. God designed us to share life's victories and defeats, not to live in isolation. We are to '...have equal concern for each other. If one part [person] suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it.' (1 Corinthians 12:25-26 NIV) Rigid boundaries rob you of life-enriching relationships. 'So what's the answer?' you ask. Reach out! You were created to give to others, and to receive what they have to give back to you. In giving you are fulfilled, and in receiving you are made complete. Anything less is just existing.

JUNE 20, 2014. SET BOUNDARIES (1)

FRIDAY JUNE 20, 2014.

'All you need to say is simply Yes or No...' Matthew 5:37 NIV

Set Boundaries (1)

When does 'a good thing' become 'too much'? Can I help you, without hurting me? Can we share our lives, without me giving up mine? When do you truly need my help? When do I need to let go, and let you and God handle it? Finding the balance between 'enough' and 'too much' in relationships is a constant challenge and isn't easy. Especially when your role tends to be 'all things, at all times, to all people,' and theirs is 'I'm helpless, you owe me, take care of me'; when you have no "no" and they have no "yes". Needing to be needed by needy people who always want someone to take care of them puts the needy person in the driver's seat - and puts you over the edge. They are never happy, whatever you do. So you do more to make them feel happier and yourself feel less guilty, and you end up in a double bind. They resent you for not giving enough, and you resent them for not appreciating what you give. Yet neither of you knows how to break the cycle. So the relationship becomes what counsellors call a 'more-of-the-same' tangle where both parties resent and devalue the other, feeling stuck in a life-dominating trap you both fear to jettison. Marriages, families, friendships, workplaces, churches and social groups get trapped in this 'victim-rescuer' pattern where needy people and fixers become trapped in a mutual dance they both 'love to hate' but won't stop doing! Recognise yourself? If so, you're moving toward a healthier, less toxic relationship.

JUNE 19, 2014. PRACTICE PURE RELIGION!

THURSDAY JUNE 19, 2014.

'Pure...religion before God...is this...' James 1:27 NKJV

Practice Pure Religion!

Jesus said about every act of kindness you show toward someone who's hurting or in need: '...You did it to Me.' (Matthew 25:40 NKJV) Wow! Maybe next time you're too busy to show concern, that'll make you stop and think. In answer to the question, 'What must I do to inherit eternal life?' Jesus told one man, '...Sell what you have and give it to the poor...[then] follow Me.' (Matthew 19:21 NKJV) This man could have blessed many others, and even been numbered among Christ's disciples, but it didn't happen because he was self-focused. Jesus told another story about a rich man who died and went to hell. Now, he didn't go there because he was rich. The only sin he was charged with was selfishness. He allowed a poor man to sit on his doorstep with wounds untended, his body ill-clad, his stomach empty, and did nothing about it (Luke 16:19-31). On the other hand, Zacchaeus, who overcharged others in order to enrich himself, saw the folly of his ways, renounced selfishness and made a decision to follow Jesus (Luke 19:1-10). The story's told of an angel visiting a wealthy man who happened to be on his deathbed. After the man listed all the things he'd like to take to Heaven with him, the angel informed him, 'You can only take what you have given away.' Don't wait until the eve of your departure to give; experience the joy and reward of it - now. 'Pure and undefiled religion before God and the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their trouble.' So today, practice pure religion!

JUNE 18, 2014. DON'T BE AN OLDER BROTHER

WEDNESDAY JUNE 18, 2014.

'...Son...all that I have is yours.' Luke 15:31 NKJV

Don't Be an Older Brother

In the parable of the prodigal son Jesus is talking to two different groups: regular people, and religious leaders who complain that Jesus 'receives sinners'. (Luke 15:2 NKJV) We all know the story. The Prodigal Son 'blew it' and ended up in a pigsty. Later, when he returned home, his father threw a big party. But his older brother wouldn't attend. Here was his reason: '...These many years I have been serving you...yet you never gave me a young goat that I might make merry with my friends. But as soon as this son of yours came, who has devoured your livelihood with harlots, you killed the fatted calf for him. And [his father] said to him, Son...all that I have is yours.' (Luke 15:29-31 NKJV) It's the kind of thing you hear in church from people who lift themselves up by putting others down. Both sons spent time in the pigsty: one in the pigsty of rebellion, the other in the pigsty of resentment. One came home to a welcome, the other stayed home and wallowed in self-righteousness. Because of his judgmentalism, the older son ended up losing more than the younger son: (1) He forfeited the joy of knowing how much he was loved by his father. (2) As the oldest son he was entitled to twice as much of his father's estate, yet he wasn't able to enjoy a moment of it. (3) His younger brother was lost and hurting. What an opportunity to forgive, show grace, help to restore him and have a life-enriching relationship with him. But he forfeited it all because he was judgmental. Don't be an older brother!

JUNE 17, 2014. ENCOURAGE SOMEONE TODAY

TUESDAY JUNE 17, 2014

'...Epaphroditus...ministered to my need.' Philippians 2:25 NKJV

Encourage Someone Today

When people are hurting, they need your support until they can get back on their feet again. Medical researchers have developed a bone-bonding compound that illustrates this. It looks like toothpaste. Once injected into the body it hardens in ten minutes. In twelve hours it reaches the compression strength of natural bone. A study in the journal, Science, found the compound virtually identical to natural bone crystals. It so closely resembles real bone that the body doesn't reject it. Weeks after being injected into the body, the cement is replaced by real bone. According to the Associated Press, clinical trials 'show the material has allowed patients to discard casts early - or altogether - and to resume walking more quickly and with less pain.' Epaphroditus is introduced by Paul as '...my brother, fellow worker, and fellow soldier...and the one who ministered to my need...Receive him therefore in the Lord with all gladness, and hold such men in esteem; because for the work of Christ he came close to death, not regarding his life, to supply what was lacking in your service toward me.' (Philippians 2:25-30 NKJV) You ask, 'What was Paul lacking?' Encouragement! And who brought it? 'Epaphroditus, a brother, a worker, and a soldier.' Epaphroditus worked side by side with Paul and he fought for him. What an asset he was! We look for such people in times of crisis because they lift us. So today ask God to make you an encourager whose words and actions bring comfort and support to others. There is no greater calling!

JUNE 16, 2014. SERVING REQUIRES FAITHFULNESS

MONDAY June 16, 2014

'...I do not seek My own will, but the will of the Father.' John 5:30 NKJV

Serving Requires Faithfulness

In His dealings with people, the Bible says of Christ: 'Having loved His own...He loved them unto the end.' (John 13:1 KJV) And when it came to His dealings with God, He could say, 'I do not seek My own will but the will of the Father who sent Me.' (John 5:30 NKJV) Can God count on you? Can others? When you make a commitment, do you keep it? Do you quit on a whim, or break your word because you get a better offer? 'In Damascus there was a disciple named Ananias. The Lord called him in a vision, "Ananias!" "Yes, Lord," he answered.' (Acts 9:10 NIV) God knew where to find Ananias. Does He know where to find you? Pastor Eric Hulstrand was preaching one Sunday when an elderly woman, Mary, fainted and struck her head on the end of the pew. They called for an ambulance and, as they put her on the stretcher, she regained consciousness and motioned for her daughter to come near. Everyone thought she was summoning her strength to convey what would be her final words. Her daughter leaned over until her ear was at Mary's mouth. 'My offering is in my purse,' she whispered. God's work shouldn't go lacking because you've gone on holiday and taken your tithes and offerings with you. 'Honour the Lord with your wealth and with the best part of everything you produce.' (Proverbs 3:9 NLT) Your faithfulness shouldn't be contingent upon economic conditions, but upon your commitment to Christ. Remember the US Marine Corps motto, 'Semper Fidelis', the Latin for 'Always Faithful'.

JUNE 15 2014. SERVING REQUIRES OBEDIENCE

SUNDAY, June 15 2014

'I desire to do Your will, my God.' Psalm 40:8 NIV

Serving Requires Obedience

If you're upset over giving up your 'rights' and 'privileges' to serve others, consider what Christ gave up to serve you. '...He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death...' (Philippians 2:8 NKJV) When you're tempted to remind others of the sacrifices you've made, hear Christ's Words: '...When you have done all things which you are commanded, say, We are unprofitable servants. We have done what was our duty to do.' (Luke 17:10 NKJV) Have you ever observed a dog that graduated from obedience school? It's a source of pleasure to its master because it has learned to respond to a word, sometimes even a look. God says, 'I will guide you with My eye.' (Psalm 32:8 NKJV) God wants to bring you to the place where you don't have to be begged, badgered or browbeaten to serve. One look from Him and you do it without question. As a servant you can't change your master's orders! Dr JR Miller said, 'It is a great deal easier to do that which God gives us to do, no matter how hard it is, than to face the responsibilities of not doing it.' God doesn't want foot-dragging compliance, He wants willing obedience. And when He gets it, He blesses it. 'If you are willing and obedient, you will eat the best from the land.' (Isaiah 1:19 NIV) God's best is reserved for those who say yes. You ask, 'How will I know when I arrive at that place?' Because you'll be able to say, 'I desire to do Your will, O my God.'

JUNE 14, 2014. SERVING REQUIRES HUMILITY

sATURDAY, June 14 2014

'Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus.' Philippians 2:5 NIV

Serving Requires Humility

Paul writes: 'You must have the same attitude that...Jesus had. Though He was God, He did not think of equality with God as something to cling to. Instead, He gave up His divine privileges...took the...position of a slave...humbled Himself in obedience to God and died a criminal's death on the cross. Therefore, God elevated Him to the place of highest honour and gave Him the name above all other names...' (Philippians 2:5-9 NLT) Being a celebrity often means we expect others to serve us, but being a Christ follower means we are called to serve others. There's a big difference, isn't there? Christ modelled servanthood before His disciples. On the social totem pole, the lowest servant in the house washed feet. Try to picture God washing the feet of common fishermen, then saying, 'As I have served you, now go and serve one another.' Download that picture the next time you view somebody as a burden, or beneath you or an obstacle to your success. You'll never serve as Christ served if your focus is on building your own image. 'Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into His hands and that He had come from God and was going to God ...began to wash the disciples' feet.' (John 13:3-5 NKJV) Jesus had settled three big issues: (1) He knew Who sent Him. (2) He knew Who sustained Him. (3) He knew Who was going to reward Him. Therefore He was liberated from the fear of people, the fear of failure and the fear of rejection. JL Massed said it so well: 'Service can never become slavery to one who loves.'

JUNE 13, 2014. WHAT ARE YOU HEARING?

FRIDAY, June 13 2014

'...The word of the Lord came to Elijah...saying... I will send rain on the earth.' 1 Kings 18:1 NKJV

What Are You Hearing?

Three years earlier, God told Elijah to announce the coming of a severe drought. As a result, it was all people talked about. Then God told him to announce that rain was coming and they were to prepare for it. Understand this: unless you learn to attune your spiritual ear to what God is saying, you won't be ready for what life throws at you. God can tell you when to save and when to sow, when to buy and when to sell, when to come to the table and when to walk away. 'Your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, "This is the way, walk in it."' (Isaiah 30:21 NKJV) But Satan can also speak to you and tell you things like, 'You're going bankrupt. You're going to die. You'll never succeed. Nobody loves you.' You'll never hear that from God! In spite of what you're hearing around you or within you, you must believe in God's faithfulness and trust Him to fight for you. Knowing He would soon be crucified, Jesus prayed, '"Father, glorify Your name." Then a voice came from Heaven, saying, "I have both glorified it and will glorify it again." Therefore the people who stood by and heard it said that it had thundered...' (John 12:28-29 NKJV) Isn't it amazing? Some can hear the voice of God, while others standing right beside them hear only noise. What Jesus heard that day galvanised His faith and gave Him the strength to march victoriously to the cross. So who are you listening to? What are you hearing?

JUNE 12, 2014. LOVE YOUR CHURCH—JESUS DOES! (2)

THURSDAY JUNE 12

“You also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house.” 1 Pe 2:5 NIV

LOVE YOUR CHURCH—JESUS DOES! (2)

We don’t go to church, we are the church! If we met for worship in the parking lot, we’d still be the church! Consider Solomon’s temple. IT was planned by David, the father, built by Solomon the son, and at its dedication filled with the Holy Spirit. Here are three ways your church is just like Solomon’s temple: (1) It was built on redemption ground! Mount Moriah, the scene of Solomon’s temple, is where Abraham took his son Isaac and offered him as a sacrifice. Guess what? Two thousand years later, God led His only begotten Son up that same mountain to die for our sins. AS G.D. Boardman said, “The cross is the only ladder high enough to touch Heaven’s threshold.” (2_ It was the most unique building ever constructed. It was built from stones made ready before they were brought together. They were washed, then fashioned, then fitted together. And that’s our story too, isn’t it? “You also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house…offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.” (3) The building materials came from many nations. We aren’t saved by race, but by grace. It’s not the blood that flows in your veins that saves you; it’s the blood that flowed from Christ veins that makes you righteous and accepted before God. Two unique phrases are used to describe Solomon’s temple: “exceeding magnifical” (1 Ch 22:5); “famous everywhere for its greatness and beauty” (v. 5 NCV). That’s how God feels about His church, and you should too!

Taken from the Word for You Today Devotional

JUNE 11, 2014. LOVE YOUR CHURCH—JESUS DOES! (1)

WEDNESDAY JUNE 11

“Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her.” Eph 5:25 NKJV

LOVE YOUR CHURCH—JESUS DOES! (1)

The church isn’t made up of people who are better than everybody else. It’s made up of people who want to be better than they are, and who know that by the grace of God they can be. Have church leaders sometimes failed us? Yes, but Jesus Chris, the Head of the church, hasn’t failed us—and He never will! Christ’s church, of which your local church is a part, was planned by God before the world began (See Eph 1:4). It was paid for in the crimson cash of Jesus’ blood, has been sustained through history by the sacrifice of the martyrs, is prophesied to be more glorious in its ending and its beginning, and is being prepared right now as a bride for her husband. John the Revelator describes it this way: “Rejoice and give Him glory, for the marriage of the Lamb has come, and His wife has made herself ready” (Rev 19:7 NKJV). So before you attack the leadership, withdraw your membership, or withhold your stewardship, remember that nothing on earth is dearer to the heart of God than His church. The truth is, when you hurt any part of the body you also hurt the Head. And here’s something else to keep in mind: the only thing on earth that has a future is the church; all the rest is going up in smoke. And the church’s insurance policy is guaranteed by Jesus Himself, Who said, “I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it” (Mt 16:18). So love your church—Jesus does!

Taken from the Word for You Today Devotional

JUNE 10, 2014. BELIEVE IN YOURSELF—GOD DOES!

TUESDAY JUNE 10

“God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him.” Php 2:13 NLT

BELIEVE IN YOURSELF—GOD DOES!

Owning your dream means having your belief in yourself outweigh your fears. A scene in the movie Akeela and the Bee illustrates the power in believing in yourself, while recognizing the grace that God has given you to do it. The story is about Akeelah, a girl from south Los Angeles who overcomes many obstacles to compete at the Scripps National Spelling Bee. When her spelling coach, Dr. Larabee, asks her, “Have you got any goals? What would you like to be when you grow up? A doctor, a lawyer, a stand-up comic?” She responds, “I don’t know. The only thing I’m good at is spelling.” Motioning toward a plaque, he tells her, “Go over there and read the quotation that’s on the wall. Read it out loud, please.” She reads, “Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. We ask ourselves, ‘Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented and fabulous?’ Actually, who are you not to be? We are born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same.” Larabee asks, “What does that mean?” She answers, “That I’m not supposed to be afraid.” He asks, “Afraid of what?” She answers, “Afraid of…me?” You will never embrace your God-given destiny until you first believe in yourself. And that belief comes from knowing: “God is working in [me], giving [me] the desire and the power to do what pleases him.”

Taken from the Word for You Today Devotional

JUNE 9, 2014. LIVING FOR THE RIGHT REASONS

MONDAY JUNE 9

“One’s life does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses.” Lk 12:15 NKJV

LIVING FOR THE RIGHT REASONS

IT is said that in 1923, seven of the world’s most successful men met at a Chicago hotel” the president of the largest independent steel company, the president of the largest utility company, the greatest wheat speculator, the president of the New York Stock Exchange, a member of the President s Cabinet, the president of the Bank of International Settlements, and the president of the world’s greatest monopoly. Collectively these tycoons controlled more money than there was in the Unites States Treasury. Now, fast forward twenty-five years and let’s see what happened to them. Charles Schwab, president of the largest steel company lived the last five years of his life on borrowed money and died a pauper. Arthur Cooger, the greatest wheat speculator, shot himself. Richard Whitney, president of the New Yorck Stock Exchange spent years in Sing Sing Prison. Albert Fall, a member of the President’s cabinet, went to prison for bribery. Leo Fraser, the president of the U.S. Bank of International Settlements, shot himself. Ivan Kreuger, head of one of the world’s largest monopolies, also committed suicide. If the recent economic upheaval has taught us anything, it’s that money brings neither security nor happiness. Yes, God will bless you with money (See Dt 8:18). And He will do it for two reasons: (!) Because He delights in seeing His redeemed children walk in His blessings (See Ps 35:27). (2) Because He expects you to use your money to reach a hurting world with God’s love. If you keep those two things in mind, you’ll be living for the right reasons.

Taken from the Word for You Today Devotional

JUNE 8, 2014. YOU MUSTN'T QUIT

SUNDAY JUNE 8

“I press toward the goal for the prize.” Php 3:14 NKJV

YOU MUSTN'T QUIT

Paul writes: “Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me…All of us who are mature should take such a view of things” (vv. 13-15 NIV). Paul was driven by his vision of reaching the world for Christ (See Ro 10:1). It was his yardstick for daily living and his motivation for every effort. It made him relentless. An unknown poet wrote: “When things go wrong as they sometimes will, and the road you’re trudging seems all uphill. When funds are low and the debts are high, and you want to smile but you have to sigh. When things are pressing you down a bit, rest if you must, but don’t you quit! Life is strange with its twists and turns, as one of us sometimes learns. And many a failure turns about, when he might have won if he’d stuck it out. Don’t give up, though the pace seems slow—you might succeed with another blow. Often the goal is nearer than it seems, to a faint and faltering man. Often the struggler has given up, when he might have captured the vitcor’s cup. And he learned too late, when the night slipped down, how close he was to the golden crown. Success is failure turned inside out—the silver tint of the clouds of doubt. You never can tell how close you are, it may be near when it seems afar. So stick to the fight when you’re hardest hit—It’s when things seem worst that you musn’t quit” (See Gal 6:9).

Taken from the Word for You Today Devotional

JUNE 7, 2014. LAVISH GRACE

SATURDAY JUNE 7

“Forgiveness…in accordance with the riches of…grace.” Eph 1:7 NIV

LAVISH GRACE

Peter asked, “How many times should I forgive someone who does…wrong to me? Is seven times enough?” Jesus answered: ‘Not…seven…but seventy-seven times!’” (Mt 18:21-22 CEV). But we shouldn’t stop there. If God gave each of us only seventy seven “forgiveness passes,” we’d be in trouble! You can’t bankrupt your “forgiveness account” with God. But when you refuse to forgive others, you’re overlooking the fact that “You might be needing forgiveness before the day’s out” (Gal 6:1 TM). Jesus said, “Forgive—only then will your heavenly father…wipe your slate clean” (Mk 11:25 TM). Whether it’s seven, seventy-seven, or seven thousand times, you always reap what you sow (See Gal 6:7). We’re all human, and when somebody hurts us we want justice. But God wants you to forgive the wrongdoer before he asks or shows any sign of remorse. Does that mean he will escape the consequences of his actions? No, it just means you’re not responsible for making it happen, God is. Harboring grudges is spiritually, emotionally, and physically draining; forgiveness energizes and frees you to move on. Remember, you’ve been forgiven “in accordance with the riches of…grace…he lavished on us.” But it comes with the requirement that you forgive others! When you think about the debt God forgave you, anything anyone could ever do to you pales in comparison, right? “His love has no limits, His grace has no measure, His power no boundary known to men; For out of his infinite riches in Jesus, He giveth and giveth and giveth again” (Annie Johnson Flint, 1866-1932). Now that’s lavish grace!

Taken from the Word for You Today Devotional

JUNE 6, 2014. DON’T BE A STIR-STICK!

FRIDAY JUNE 6

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.” Mt 5:9 NKJV

DON’T BE A STIR-STICK!

Try to picture these two scenes. First: Christ in heaven defending you and acting as your advocate before God. “If anybody does sin, we have one who speaks to the Father in our defense—Jesus Christ” (1Jn 2:1 NIV). Second: You here on earth, accusing someone. The Bible calls Satan “the accuser of our brothers, who accuses them before our God day and night” (Rev 12:10 NIV). Which side are you on? You say, “But I heard it on the grapevine.” Has it ever occurred to you that you might not be connected to the right vine? Jesus said, “I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit” (Jn 15:5 NIV). The fruit Jesus referred to here is “good” fruit. He said, “Blessed are the peacemakers.” And what’s the opposite of a peacemaker? A stir-stick! These are often people with inner turmoil, unresolved issues, or a chip on their shoulder who go through life stirring stuff up. When they see a tapestry, they look for a thread to unravel it. Some do it deliberately, others unwittingly. When you have little or no joy in your own life, it’s hard to celebrate joy in the lives of others. To be a peacemaker you must nip conflict, criticism, and complaining in the bud. Tactfully, steer the conversation in a different direction. And if need be, talk to the person who is stirring things up. At best, you’ll help them to change. At second best, they’ll think twice about what they say to you.

Taken from the Word for You Today Devotional

JUNE 5, 2014. PREPARE FOR CHALLENGES

THURSDAY JUNE 5

“A sensible man watches for problems ahead and prepares to meet them.” Pr 27:12 TLB

PREPARE FOR CHALLENGES

The path to your God-given destiny will have different challenges, so you must expect them. Indeed you must prepare yourself to face them. Solomon wrote, “A sensible man watches for problems ahead and prepares to meet them.” Wouldn’t you rather look ahead and prepare, instead of looking back with regret? Why does the Bible record the failures of great men like Abraham, Moses, Elijah, and Peter? To give you hope; to let you know that nopbody performs flawlessly; to help you believe if they can do it, bu God’s grace you can too. The road to success has many potholes. You’ll fall into some—and they’re messy. Not only will you have to climb back out, you’ll have to dust yourself off, refocus, recommit, and keep going. Since failure is inevitable, why not make it your friend by examining each experience and growing stronger through it? Once you learn to do that, you won’t keep repeating the same mistakes, and you’ll become more emotionally and spiritually stable. Timelines change, resources dry up, assumptions prove false, plans and people fail. As comedian Bill Cosby quipped, “Nothing fits in a pigeonhole but a pigeon.” As you walk the pathway to your God-given dream, remember the old Italian proverb: “Between saying and going, many a pair of shoes is worn out.” No problem; you can get another pair of shoes! Just make sure you don’t wear out and give up. Here’s God’s promise to you: “Keep traveling steadily along his pathway and in due season he will honor you with every blessing” (Ps 37:34 TLB).

Taken from the Word for You Today Devotional

JUNE 4, 2014. HOW WELL DO YOU KNOW JESUS?

WEDNESDAY JUNE 4

“Don’t you know me…?” Jn 14:9 NIV

HOW WELL DO YOU KNOW JESUS?

A fascinating encounter took place between Jesus and Philip. When “Philip said, ‘Lord, show us the Father’…Jesus answered: ‘Don’t you know me, Philip, even after I have been among you such a long time?’” (vv. 8-9 NIV). There’s a lesson here for all of us. You can go to church regularly, serve on the board and sing in the choir, yet not really “know” the Lord. To truly know someone you must spend time with them, sharing and opening your heart. In other words, the relationship must become your top priority. The book you’re holding is called a “devotional” because its aim is to bring you to the place where you’re more devoted to Christ than anything else. Does that mean neglecting other things? No, it will actually enhance every other area of your life. The Bible says, “ He made known His ways to Moses, His acts to the children of Israel” (Ps 103:7 NKJV). Israel knew God’s acts because they were observers, whereas Moses knew His ways because he was intimate with Him. Israel saw what God did; Moses was close enough to understand His thinking and why He did what He did. Three times Jesus asked Peter, “Do you love Me?” (Jn 21:15 NKJV). The first two times Peter answered, “Yes.” The third time, frustrated by the question, he answered, “Lord, You know.” You can fool others, and even yourself, but the Lord knows the quality of your love for Him. Today His desire is to draw you closer to Himself. Are you available?

 Taken from the Word for You Today Devotional

JUNE 3, 2014. TEMPTATION

TUESDAY JUNE 3

“My strength is made perfect in weakness.” 2 Co 12:9 NKJV

TEMPTATION

You ask, “How long will this temptation last?” Sometimes the Enemy’s attack is short-term, other times it is long-term. Paul had a “thorn” in his flesh, one that wouldn’t go away. Why did he have it? Pride! “Lest I should be exalted above measure by the abundance of the revelations, a thorn in the flesh was given to me” (v. 7 NKJV). Paul spoke five languages and wrote half the New Testament. With credentials like that it’s easy to become arrogant. Finally, he stopped praying for an exit strategy and began to understand God’s purpose: “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness” (v. 9 NKJV). Pride is one of the most neglected subjects in church today. Perhaps that’s due to the fact that we receive our teaching from people who struggle with it themselves. Pride doesn’t necessarily show on your face, but when you’re under pressure it surfaces in your actions and attitudes. Pride originated with Satan: “I will make myself like the Most High” (Isa 14:14 NIV). Often the core of atheism is pride; a person with no God plays God. Satan used this strategy in Eden. “God knows that in the day you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God” (Ge 3:5 NKJV). That’s why Paul told the Philippians, “You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had. Though He was God…He gave up his divine privileges; he took the humble position of a slave…Therefore, God elevated him to the place of highest honor” (Php 2:5-9 NLT). The key to overcoming temptation is submitting to God and living in daily dependence of Him.

Taken from the Word for You Today Devotional

JUNE 2, 2014. A SELF-SEEKING SPIRIT

MONDAY JUNE 2

 “A dispute arose among them as to which of them would be greatest.”  LK 9:46 NKJV

A SELF-SEEKING SPIRIT

The Bible says: “Then a dispute arose among them as to which of them would be greatest. And Jesus, perceiving the thought of their heart, took a little child and set him by Him, and said to them, ‘Whoever receives this little child in My name receives Me; and whoever receives Me receives Him who sent Me. For he who is least among you all will be great’” (vv. 46-48 NKJV). What’s at work in this story? A self-seeking spirit. As long as your motive for serving is to make yourself look good, you’ll never enjoy God’s approval. And His “Well done” is the only thing that counts. The ability to serve behind the scenes, and do it with joy, comes from the knowledge that ultimately your service will be recognized and rewarded by the only One whose opinion counts. The ability to serve behind the scenes, and do it with joy, comes from the knowledge that ultimately your service will be recognized and rewarded by the only One whose opinion counts. Why did Jesus feature a child that day? For three reasons: (1) A child is teachable. When you’re done learning, you’re done! When you can’t be told, God will have nothing more to tell you. “The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge; the ears of the wise seek it out” (Pr 18:15 NIV). (2) A child is trusting. When you promise a child something they believe you, act on it, and expect it to be so. “It is better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in man” (Ps 118:8 NKJV). The Holy Spirit is symbolized in Scripture as a gentle dove, so keep your heart tender and receptive to His dealings.

Taken from The Word for You Today devotional.

JUNE 1, 2014. THE THREE THORNS

SUNDAY JUNE 1

“Thorns...shall it bring forth to thee.” Ge 3:18

THE THREE THORNS 

In scripture there are three thorns that paint a picture of redemption. Let’s look at them and see what we can lean. (1) A thorn-cursed creation. When Adam and Eve sinned, God said, “Cursed is the ground for your sake...thorns...it shall bring forth for you...In the sweat of your face you shall eat bread till you return to the ground” (vv. 17-19 NKJV). Everything changed for us in that moment. Roses began to grow thorns, fellowship with God was broken, and man who was born to live forever began to die. It was tragic, but God had a solution. (2) A thorn-crowned Savior. “When they had twisted a crown of thorns, they put it on His head” (Mt 27:29 NKJV). The curse that fell in a garden was lifted in a garden! When God drove Adam and Eve out of the Garden of Eden, He placed an angel with a flaming sword at the gate to prevent them from ever reentering it. But at the cross Christ, the last Adam, was cut down by the sword of God’s judgement, becoming our Savior and substitute, and securing our salvation. Now we can reenter God’s presence. What did Adam lose? Fellowship with God, immortality, and sinless perfection. At the cross Christ reclaimed and restored all these to us. “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new” (2Co 5:17 NKJV). Notice the words, “in Christ.” Thirty-one times in the New Testament we read these same words. That’s one for every day of the month. Rejoice! God loves and accepts you “in Christ.”

Taken from the Word for You Today Devotional