The Carpenter's Chapel (9)

[following-Him]

The readings for today are taken from Word For Today (www.ucb.co.uk) and Our Daily Bread (www.odb.org)

Word For Today

What It Means to Serve (3)12 Jun 2012'Serve the Lord with gladness...' Psalm 100:2Paul writes: 'When people commend themselves, it doesn't count for much. The important thing is for the Lord to commend them' (2 Corinthians 10:18 NLT). If your self-worth is based on anything other than God's approval, you won't serve with the right motives. Insecure people worry about how they'll be perceived by others. They hide their weaknesses beneath layers of protective pride. The more insecure you are, the more you need people to serve you, and the more you work for their acceptance. One Bible scholar writes: 'In order to be of service to others we must die to them; that is, we have to give up measuring our meaning and value by the yardstick of others...Thus we become free to be compassionate.' Your service should not be based on the response of those you are serving, but on obedience to God alone. True servants of God don't insist on having lofty titles. If their job description calls for it, they wear that badge with humility. Paul, the greatest of the apostles, wrote: 'You may brag about yourself, but the only approval that counts is the Lord's approval' (v. 18 CEV). If anybody had a chance to name-drop, it was James the half-brother of Jesus. What credentials; imagine growing up with Jesus as your brother! Yet he simply referred to himself in Scripture as 'a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ...' (James 1:1). Your service to Christ should be both your job and your joy: 'Serve the Lord with gladness.' Can you imagine what would be accomplished if we all got serious about our role as servants-and did it joyfully?

Our Daily bread

Peacocks And Their Kin

Male peacocks are resplendent creatures with iridescent blue-green plumage and elongated trains tipped with “eyes” colored in hues of gold, red, and blue. They are strikingly beautiful birds, but they have ugly feet!
To be honest, most of us have some type of physical limitation. It may be something we’ve borne all our lives or one we’ve recently acquired.

Paul described his deficiency as a “thorn in the flesh” that kept him humble (2 Cor. 12:7-9). Three times he asked the Lord to remove it, probably thinking that he could then serve God better. But the Lord assured him, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” Paul replied, “Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.”

One of the ironies of faith is that God often chooses us to accomplish His most important tasks despite our imperfections, not because of our speaking ability, looks, or fitness for the task. Missionary Hudson Taylor said, “God was looking for someone weak enough to use, and he found [you and me]!” When we find our strength in Him, He can use us in ways we could never imagine (v.9).

Lord, I have many weaknesses. Please show Your
strength through me by using me in whatever way
You please. May others see You at work in me and
praise Your name. Amen.

God’s strength is best seen in our weakness.

 

[following-Him]

The readings for today are Word For Today (www.ucb.co.uk) and Our Daily Bread (www.odb.org)

Word For Today

Salvation13 Jun 2012'What the law was powerless to do...God did by sending his own Son...' Romans 8:3The Bible says: 'A certain ruler asked Him, saying, "Good Teacher, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?" So Jesus said..."Sell all that you have and distribute to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me." But when he heard this, he became very sorrowful, for he was very rich' (Luke 18:18-23 NKJV). This man had already achieved the three P's of success: power, prosperity and prestige. He was a bottom-line guy: 'What must I do?' Even the way he worded the question suggests he thought he could get eternal life the way he'd gotten everything else-by self-effort. He mistakenly assumed that heaven was just a payment away, but it's not. Only a cold-hearted God would sell salvation to those who can afford it. That's a hard concept to grasp since we're rewarded for our performance. But just as you wouldn't impress Picasso with your crayon sketch, so your character and good works don't qualify you for heaven. Eternal life costs more than you can afford. That's why you don't need a r?sum?, you need a redeemer. Money wasn't this man's problem, self-sufficiency was. It wasn't his income that kept him out of God's kingdom, but his ego. And it's not just the wealthy that have difficulty grasping this; so do the educated, the strong, the good-looking, the popular, and even the religious. To receive salvation you must first acknowledge that you're spiritually bankrupt, your cupboard bare and your reputation worthless. You can't approach God demanding justice-you can only come pleading for mercy. And if you come today, that's what you'll get!

Our Daily Bread

The Best Teacher

In talking to young people about preparing for the future, I’ve had several say something like this: “We must get into the world to experience ungodly situations and ungodly people in order to grow stronger.”

This kind of thinking has swallowed up many immature Christians and eventually turned them against God. Sure, we’re in the world (John 17:15) and we’re exposed to non-Christian situations (school, job, neighborhood), but we need to be careful that exposure to those situations does not lead to embracing ungodly philosophies. All of us would mature faster by following the divine pattern suggested in Psalm 1:1.

First, let’s not let our decisions and choices be controlled by the “counsel of the ungodly.” Second, we shouldn’t put ourselves in a place where those who don’t know Jesus can unduly influence our thought processes. Third, let’s avoid getting comfortable with those who mock God, His Word, and His role in our life so that their thinking seems right to us.

Counsel from such sources leads us away from God. Instead, it’s best to get our training, our guidance, and our advice from God’s holy Word and those who know it and love it. God and His Word, not experiences, are our best teacher.

You’ve given us Your Spirit, Lord,
To help us grow, mature, and learn,
To teach us from Your written Word,
So truth from error we’ll discern. —Sper

Let God’s Word fill your memory, rule your heart, and guide your life.

 

[following-Him]

The readings for today are Word For Today (www.ucb.co.uk) and Our Daily Bread ( www.odb.org).

Word For Today

Weigh Yourself on These Scales!14 Jun 2012'...Faith without deeds is dead.' James 2:26One day a man trying to lose weight stepped on the bathroom scales. His wife asked, 'How are you doing?' He replied, 'Okay, just one problem; according to these scales I ought to be eight inches taller.' When it comes to demonstrating true discipleship, James puts us all on the scales: 1) When it comes to feeding the hungry: 'Suppose you see a brother or sister who has no food or clothing, and you say, "Good-bye and have a good day; stay warm and eat well"-but then you don't give that person any food or clothing. What good does that do? So you see, faith by itself isn't enough. Unless it produces good deeds, it is...useless' (vv. 15-17 NLT). 2) When it comes to loving people and treating them with respect: 'Suppose someone comes into your meeting dressed in fancy clothes and expensive jewellery, and another comes in who is poor and dressed in dirty clothes. If you give special attention and a good seat to the rich person, but you say to the poor one, "You can stand over there, or else sit on the floor"-well, doesn't this discrimination show that your judgments are guided by evil motives?' (vv. 2-4 NLT). 3) When it comes to caring for the needy: 'Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress...' (James 1:27 NLT). Get your doctrine out of the deep freeze! Take your theology off the drawing board and start using it in a practical way. Come on-weigh yourself on these scales.

Our Daily bread

The Lamb Who Is The Lion

In Revelation 5, the apostle John portrays Jesus, the Lion of Judah (v.5), as a wounded Lamb (v.6). Referring to this word picture, preacher Charles Spurgeon asked, “Why should our exalted Lord appear in His wounds in glory?” His reply: “The wounds of Jesus are His glory.”

Typically, the symbol of a lamb does not represent power and victory. Most people prefer symbols of strength that invite admiration. Yet God chose to be incarnated as a baby born into a poor carpenter’s home. He lived as an itinerant preacher and died “as a lamb to the slaughter” (Isa. 53:7) on a Roman cross. Everyone, including His disciples, thought that His crucifixion spelled the end of the One who had dared to defy the established religious order of His day. But when Jesus Christ rose from the dead, He demonstrated mightily God’s incomparable power and glory.

The day is coming when Jesus will return in glory to rule what is rightfully His. On that day, all will bow before Him and say, “Worthy is the Lamb who was slain to receive power and riches and wisdom, and strength and honor and glory and blessing!” (Rev. 5:12). Jesus, the Lamb who is also the Lion, deserves our praise!

Every knee in heaven is bending
To the Lamb for sinners slain;
Every voice and harp is swelling—
“Worthy is the Lamb to reign!” —Deck

To honor our King, His praises we sing.

 

[following-Him]

The readings for today are Word For Today (www.ucb.co.uk) and Our Daily Bread (www.odb.org)

Word For Today

Bearing Fruit15 Jun 2012'...I chose you...to go and bear fruit - fruit that will last...' John 15:16Before leaving this world Jesus took His disciples aside to prepare them for the problems they would face after He was gone: 'I am the vine; you are the branches...apart from me you can do nothing...I chose you...to go and bear fruit-fruit that will last' (vv. 5 & 16 NIV). Here Jesus teaches us two important things: 1) You only discover who you are, in relationship to Christ. 'Apart from me you can do nothing.' When you forget that, you end up trying to do things only God can do, like solving your problems your own way, or promoting yourself through clever strategies. You're not blessed in any endeavour because of your performance; you're blessed because of your connection to Christ. Unless you understand that, you'll waste your time chasing people who have no more power than you do. Your strength and success are in Christ, the Vine, so stay connected! 2) Before you get the fruit that remains, you lose the fruit that's temporary. 'He cuts off every branch that...bears no fruit' (v. 2 NIV). You can be a good branch, connected to a good vine, bearing good fruit, and suddenly God starts cutting back certain things in your life. Things you thought would always be there are taken away; now it feels like you're going backwards. It takes faith to believe that God would permit you to lose what you're proud of, and what you draw your security from in order to give you something better-fruit that lasts, enduring success. So, difficult though it may be, let it go. God has something better in mind for you.

Our Daily bread

Lost and Found

Recently, I couldn’t find my credit card. I began frantically looking for it because losing a credit card is no small thing. Automatic payments and daily purchases would all be disrupted until it could be replaced. Not to mention the possibility of someone finding it and charging items to our account. What a relief it was when my wife found it on the floor under the computer table.

In Luke 15:8-10, Christ told the story of something that was lost—a valuable coin, which was equivalent to a day’s wages. The woman who lost the coin was so concerned about locating it that she lit a lamp, swept the house, and carefully searched until she found it. Then she told her friends “Rejoice with me, for I have found the [coin] which I lost!” (v.9). Then Jesus gave the point of the story: “Likewise, I say to you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents” (v.10).

People are of great value to God. Those who don’t know Him are lost in their sins. Christ paid the ultimate price by dying on the cross for their redemption. Do you know people who are lost? Ask the Lord to give you an opportunity to share the good news with them so they can repent of their sins and be found by our gracious God.

The Lord has come to seek and save
A world that is lost in sin;
And everyone who comes to Him
Will be restored and changed within. —Sper

To be found, you must first admit that you’re lost.

 

[following-Him]

The readings for today are Word For Today (www.ucb.co.uk) and Our Daily Bread (www.odb.org).


Word For Today

Wait and You'll Experience God's Best16 Jun 2012'...God... will fulfill his purpose for [you].' Psalm 57:2If you've been praying for God to send you the right partner, or for a better job, or to change the heart of a rebelliouschild, remember, whether He changes the situation or changes you, He 'will fulfill his purpose for [you].' God sees the big picture, and He loves you so much that He works out 'all things for good in your life' (Romans 8:28). One author writes: 'It's hard to make sense of life's challenges when you're in the middle...you're too tired, your perspective's limited...you don't have the strength or vision to do this on your own...'Trust the Lord with all your heart, and do not rely on your own understanding' (Proverbs 3:5 GWT) means letting go of floundering attempts to manipulate people, circumstances or timing...and returning the reins to the One who knows the way. Think about it; if you knew what you were doing, would you be in this mess? We talk about waiting on God. But He also waits on us...until we're ready to receive...until we appreciate what we're asking for...until we've made sufficient preparations in our heart...until we're free from resentment and discontent...until our maturity level is appropriate and our understanding elevated...Sometimes He waits until we think He's forgotten us just to test and grow our faith...Remember, '...With the Lord a day is like a thousand years...' (2 Peter 3:8 NIV). Eternity is His backdrop...and He can solve a problem in a minute, or in two generations.' Isaiah says, 'The Lord longs to be gracious to you...Blessed are all who wait for him!' (Isaiah 30:18 NIV). Wait! Don't get ahead of God and you'll experience His best.

Our Daily Bread

Wonderfully Made

When I was a child, someone close to me thought they could motivate me to do better by frequently asking me, “Why are you so stupid?” I didn’t know how much this had affected me until I was a teenager and heard someone behind me say, “Stupid!” At the word, I quickly turned around, thinking he was talking to me.

Knowing Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord helped me to realize that because God created me in His image (Gen. 1:27), I’m not stupid but am “fearfully and wonderfully made” (Ps. 139:14). God declares that all He has made is “very good” (Gen. 1:31), and the Psalms remind us that we are “skillfully wrought” (Ps. 139:15).

The psalmist David describes how God knows each one of us intimately: “O Lord, You have searched me and known me. You know my sitting down and my rising up; You understand my thought afar off. You comprehend my path and my lying down, and are acquainted with all my ways” (vv.1-3).

Not only are we wonderfully made, but because of Christ’s death on the cross, we can also be wonderfully restored to a right relationship with God. “If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation . . . . All this is from God, who reconciled us to Himself through Christ” (2 Cor. 5:17-18 NIV).

In His own image God created man,
He formed his body from the dust of the earth;
But more than that, to all who are in Christ
He gives eternal life by second birth. —Hess

Each person is a unique expression of God’s loving design.

 

[following-Him]

The readings for today are Word For Today (www.ucb.co.uk) and Our Daily Bread (www.odb.org)

Word For Today

The principles of God's Word work like spiritual vitamins. For the next few days let's look at some: Never excuse in yourself what you accuse in others. King David did that. In confronting him over his sin with Bathsheba, Nathan the prophet told David a story about two men. One had many cattle; the other had only one lamb. When a guest came to the rich man's house for dinner, he took the poor man's lamb. 'David's anger was greatly aroused against the man, and he said..."the man who has done this shall surely die! And he shall restore fourfold for the lamb...because he had no pity." Then Nathan said to David, "You are the man!...' (2 Samuel 12:5-7 NKJV). Nathan continued: "Thus says the Lord God of Israel...I gave you your master's house and your master's wives...And if that had been too little, I also would have given you much more!...You have killed Uriah [Bathsheba's husband]...with the sword; you have taken his wife to be your wife...Now therefore, the sword shall never depart from your house...' (vv. 7-10 NKJV). David didn't know it, but he pronounced his punishment with his own lips: 'He shall restore fourfold.' And David did. First, the child he fathered with Bathsheba died. Second, his son raped his daughter, and he didn't have the moral authority to deal with it. Third, Absalom, the beloved son destined to inherit his throne, fomented war and died at the hands of his own people. Fourth, civil war broke out in Israel and thousands of people died as a result. The lesson is clear: never accuse in another what you excuse in yourself.

Our Daily Bread

Hidden Away

By the time I was born, my great- grandfather, Abram Z. Hess, had already lost his sight. He was known for the beautiful wooden objects he had carved on a lathe—and also as someone who could quote many verses of Scripture. He and his friend Eli would often share Scripture verses back and forth. A bit of a competitive spirit resulted in their admission that Eli could cite more references while my grandfather could recite more verses.
Today, the family often remembers Abram as “Blind Grandpa.” His practice of memorizing Scripture became a lifeline for him when he lost his physical sight. But why is it important that we memorize the Word of God?

Psalm 119 gives us instruction on how to follow God by hiding His Word in our hearts. First, in this way, we arm ourselves when temptation comes (v.11; Eph. 6:17). Then, as we meditate on His Word, we come to know Him better. Finally, when we have His words etched in our minds, we are better able to hear His voice when He instructs and guides us. We use those phrases of Scripture as we talk with Him, worship Him, and teach or witness to others (Col. 3:16).

The Word of God is “living and powerful” (Heb. 4:12). Hide its precious words away “in [your] heart” (Ps. 119:11)where they will always be with you.

Lord, Your Word is a treasure—priceless and beyond
compare. I’m not the best at memorizing but
I do want Your words to saturate my mind and heart.
Please use Your Word in obvious ways in my life today.

When God’s Word is hidden in our heart, His ways will become our ways.

 

[following-Him]

The readings for today are Word For Today (www.ucb.co.uk) and Our Daily bread (www.odb.org)

Word For Today

Vitamins for Spiritual Health (3)20 Jun 2012'...Are you in health, my brother?...' 2 Samuel 20:9Never allow life's disappointments to make you cynical. If you live long enough people will disappoint you, including your family. Even spiritual leaders will let you down! Paul wrote: 'We wanted to come to you-even I, Paul, time and again-but satan hindered us' (1Thessalonians 2:18 NKJV). Did you think satan was going to send you a congratulatory telegram because you decided to serve the Lord? Not a chance! The walk of faith is one of delight-and difficulty. When you signed on for the first, you signed on for the second. Paul was on a sixteen-month missionary journey-one of miracles and church building. But he ended up in prison on trumped-up charges and was left to rot there. How did he respond? 'Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice!' (Philippians 4:4 NKJV). You say, 'How can somebody rejoice in prison?' When you see your disappointment as God's appointment, you start to understand its purpose. Paul had books to write that would change the world, so God needed to get him 'off the road.' Listen to what he wrote from prison: 'I want you to know...that everything that has happened to me here has helped to spread the Good News. For everyone here, including the whole palace guard, knows that I am in chains because of Christ. And because of my imprisonment, most of the believers here have gained confidence and boldly speak God's message without fear' (Philippians 1:12-14 NLT). Hidden in some of your biggest disappointments, you will find treasures of truth that literally transform your life and your future.

Our Daily Bread

A Good Neighbour

In June 2011, when disastrous flood- waters chased residents of Minot, North Dakota, from their homes, the people of that community did what seemed to come naturally to them—they helped others who were in need. People from more than an hour away, without being asked, showed up to help. Some loaned their campers to those who lost their homes and others allowed their garages to be used for temporary storage. The people of North Dakota were showing what it means to be good neighbors.

As followers of Christ, being good neighbors—showing love to others—should come naturally to us as well (Matt. 22:39; John 13:35; 1 John 4:7-11). Even though we may not have the opportunity to respond in a dramatic way to a natural disaster, we can all look for ways to love those around us. To be good neighbors, we can show others mercy (Luke 10:29-37), treat others fairly (Lev. 19:13-18; James 2:1-8), speak to others truthfully (Eph. 4:25), and forgive others completely (Eph. 4:32; Col. 3:13).

Christians can be the best neighbors around because our love for others flows out of the life of the ultimate neighbor—Jesus Christ—who loved and sacrificed His life for us.

Oh, to be like Him, tender and kind,
Gentle in spirit, lowly in mind;
More like to Jesus, day after day,
Filled with His Spirit now and alway. —Ellsworth

Our love for Christ is only as real as our love for our neighbor.

 

[following-Him]

The readings for today are Word For Today (www.ucb.co.uk) and Our Daily Bread (www.odb.org)

Vitamins for Spiritual Health (4)21 Jun 2012'...Are you in health, my brother?...' 2 Samuel 20:9Never forget the law of sowing and reaping. God set in motion certain laws and they never change. One is the law of gravity. Another is the law of sowing and reaping. 'While the earth remains, seedtime and harvest...shall not cease' (Genesis 8:22 NKJV). This law works both negatively and positively. If you sow good things you will reap good things; if you sow bad things you will reap bad things. Consider parenting. Eli the high priest was not only called to be a role model to the nation, but also to his two sons. Now, he may have been a great success in ministry but he failed badly on the home front. His sons, who were also priests, enriched themselves by taking bribes. They even slept with women in the temple courts. Pretty shocking, eh? So what did God say? '...I will judge his house...for the iniquity which he knows, because his sons made themselves vile, and he did not restrain them' (1Samuel 3:13 NKJV). As a result Eli's sons were killed at the hands of their enemies, and when the news of it reached Eli he dropped dead. That's the harvest law working negatively. But thank God it also works positively. Paul writes about it: 'Knowing that whatever good anyone does, he will receive the same from the Lord...' (Ephesians 6:8 NKJV). You say, 'What does that mean?' It means that whatever good you make happen for others, God will make happen for you. So whether it's a smile, a prayer, a gift or a helping hand, start sowing good seeds and you will reap harvests of blessing.

Our Daily Bread

Tempting Outside; Toxic Inside

An Australian study concluded that plainer cigarette packages would make smoking less appealing to teens. In response, the Australian government introduced legislation that would require tobacco companies to replace color, logos, and promotional text on cigarette packages with health warnings and images of diseased lungs. In effect, the Marlboro Man would give way to the Grim Reaper in an effort to reduce the number of deaths caused by smoking. But cigarette packaging isn’t the only thing that may be tempting on the outside with a toxic product inside.

The Old Testament book of Proverbs urges us to carefully consider the long-term results of all our choices. The recurring phrase “in the end” (Prov. 5:4; 25:8; 29:21) is a warning to look down the road and ask if what we’re attracted to will ultimately lead to joy or sorrow, honor or disgrace, life or death. “For the Lord gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding; He stores up sound wisdom for the upright” (2:6-7).

The key to avoiding the tragic results of foolish choices is embracing God’s wisdom as our guide through life. “Then [we] will understand righteousness and justice, equity and every good path” (v.9).

There’s so much wisdom to be learned,
So many ways for me to grow,
Lord, I would listen like a child,
And learn what You would have me know. —K. De Haan

Wisdom is understanding what’s really important.

 

[following-Him]

Word For Today (www.ucb.co.uk) and Our Daily Bread (www.odb.org) are our readings for today. I hope they will be a blessing to you.

Word For Today

Vitamins for Spiritual Health (5)22 Jun 2012'...Are you in health, my brother?...' 2 Samuel 20:9Never withhold because times are hard. The Bible teaches that those who set their mind on 'getting' always lose, whereas those who set their mind on 'giving' always win. The story's told of a dog walking across a bridge with a bone in his mouth. When he looked down into the river and saw his reflection, he thought it was another dog with a bigger bone. So he jumped in to get it-and drowned. Paul dedicates two entire chapters in the Bible to the subject of money. Perhaps that's a good answer to those who say, 'All the church ever talks about is money.' Since money is congealed sweat, coined time, coined talent, negotiable you, it's one way in which you can give yourself to God. It's not the only way but it's a very important way. So Paul writes: 'Remember this-a farmer who plants only a few seeds will get a small crop. But the one who plants generously will get a generous crop. You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don't give reluctantly or in response to pressure. For God loves a person who gives cheerfully. And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others...Yes, you will be enriched in every way so that you can always be generous...' (2 Corinthians 9:6-11 NLT). Unless you practice generosity there's no point asking God for more money. He doesn't pour His blessing into pots, but into pipes; not into reservoirs, but into rivers that let it flow out. Getting the idea?

Our Daily Bread

Here in New England where I live, baseball is a near-religious pursuit. Even if it were against the law to talk about the Boston Red Sox while at work, the fans couldn’t stop—they love their team that much.
That raises a question in my mind for Christians: Are there times when a Christian shouldn’t talk about God? I think so. In the face of insincere challenges to our faith, silence may often be the best response. In the hostile situation of Jesus’ exchange with Caiaphas, He chose silence at first (Matt. 26:63). He understood that Caiaphas wasn’t interested in the truth (v.59). While we don’t always know another’s heart, we must be sensitive to the leading of the Spirit in every situation that we “may know how [we] ought to answer each one” (Col. 4:6).

Also, if an answer to a question will move the discussion down a rabbit trail and away from Christ, we might want to stop the conversation and pick it up another day.

Are there other times when silence may be best? If talking about faith distracts us or co-workers from performing our job, we should stay focused on our work. Or if someone has shown a continual resistance, we might choose to stop pressing them. Remember, we can be a witness of God’s grace with our conduct as well (1 Peter 3:1-2).

Dear Lord, we want to be a testimony for You.
Give us wisdom to know when to speak or not speak,
and what to say or not say. Thank You, Holy Spirit,
for Your direction today.

Silence can be one tool in evangelism.

 

[following-Him]

The readings for today are Word For Today (www.ucb.co.uk) and Our Daily bread (www.odb.org)

Word For Today

Vitamins for Spiritual Health (6)23 Jun 2012'...Are you in health, my brother?...' 2 Samuel 20:9Never forget, you're not home yet. The story's told of an old steamship that pulled into Southampton harbour and the passengers got off. Helium-filled balloons rose into the air and the crowd went wild as a young Hollywood starlet walked down the gangplank to be greeted by her family and friends. The last person off the ship was an elderly man who had spent more than fifty years of his life as a missionary in India. All his earthly possessions were in a tattered suitcase he carried by his side. After getting to his room in a cheap boarding house, he knelt by his bed and prayed: 'Lord, I've served you all my life. I've sacrificed everything to tell others the good news of the gospel and brought many to you. Yet there was no one to celebrate my arrival or welcome me home.' As he knelt there the voice of God spoke to him softly and said, 'Son, you're not home yet!' And redeemed child of God, neither are you! If God has blessed you with a nice house, thank Him and enjoy it. But don't get too settled. At best, it's only temporary accommodation. Paul thought often of heaven: 'For I am hard-pressed between the two, having a desire to depart and be with Christ, which is far better. Nevertheless to remain in the flesh is more needful for you' (Philippians 1:23-24 NKJV). God has something 'far better' in mind for you. A great preacher once said: 'It is our main business in this world, to secure an interest in the next one.'

Our Daily Bread

Enemy Deceptions

Written in the sixth-century bc by Chinese general Sun Tzu, The Art of War has been a guide for military thinking for centuries. But it has also been used by men and women in a wide variety of other arenas, including leadership, management, business, politics, and sports. What Sun Tzu wrote about military warfare can help followers of Christ to understand the tactics of our spiritual enemy: “All warfare is based on deception. Hence, when able to attack, we must seem unable; when using our forces, we must seem inactive; when we are near, we must make the enemy believe we are far away; when far away, we must make him believe we are near.”
Likewise, the spiritual warfare that Satan wages against us is also based on deceit. In fact, the very first sin was the result of the enemy’s deception. Notice what Paul said: “I fear, lest somehow, as the serpent deceived Eve by his craftiness, so your minds may be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ” (2 Cor. 11:3).

This truth is what gives such importance to our Lord’s warning that Satan is the father of lies (John 8:44), ever seeking to deceive us. What is our defense? To saturate our hearts in the truth of God’s Word. Only God’s inspired truth can protect us against the deceptions of the enemy.

Father, we know that the devil is clever, deceptive,
and sly. We don’t want to be tricked by him to swallow
his lies. Help us to discern his cunning methods
and fill our minds with Your truth.

God’s truth is the best protection against Satan’s lies.

 

[following-Him]

The readings for today are Word For Today (www.ucb.co.uk) and Our Daily Bread (www.odb.org)

Word For Today

Keep Trying25 Jun 2012'...Well done, good and faithful servant...' Matthew 25:23In Discipleship Journal Paul Thigpen writes: 'I remember coming home one afternoon to discover that the kitchen I had worked so hard to clean only a few hours before, was now a terrible wreck. My young daughter had obviously been busy 'cooking' and the ingredients were scattered, along with dirty bowls and utensils, across the counters and floor. I was not happy with the situation. Then, as I looked a little more closely at the mess I spied a tiny note on the table, clumsily written and smeared with chocolatey fingerprints. The message was short-'I'm makin somethin 4 you, dad'-and it was signed, 'your angel.' In the midst of that disarray, and despite my irritation, joy suddenly sprang up in my heart, sweet and pure. My attention had been redirected from the problem to the little girl I loved. As I encountered her in that brief note, I delighted in her. With her simple goodness in focus, I could take pleasure in seeing her hand at work in the situation that seemed otherwise disastrous.' In the parable of the talents, Jesus pointed out that the two servants who invested and multiplied what had been entrusted to them received the Master's highest commendation: 'Well done, good and faithful servant.' On the other hand, the servant who buried his gifts rather than risk and lose, received the Master's harshest condemnation: '...You wicked and lazy servant...' (v. 26 NKJV). Commendation or condemnation: which will you receive? God doesn't say, 'If you can't do it right, don't do it at all.' No, He's pleased when you try, make mistakes, learn from them and grow. So keep trying!

Our Daily bread

Pureed Pursuit

James was diagnosed with heart problems, and his wife, Becky, was no longer able to care for him or herself very well. They started looking for an assisted living home. One of Becky’s first questions as she visited each home was, “Do you puree your food?” She was concerned that James have the kind of food he needed for his swallowing difficulty. Several places answered “no,” so she kept searching. Finally she heard “yes” at a Christian assisted living home.

Even though they weren’t believers in Jesus and had often argued with a Christian neighbor about Him, James and Becky chose the Christian home because of the pureed food. They began attending chapel services, heard the gospel, and felt well cared for by the workers there. One day James surrendered his life to Christ. He believes that God was pursuing him (John 6:44), and He used pureed food to bring them to the Christian home where he received the care of God’s people and heard of Christ’s forgiveness.

Conversion is a work of God; in love He draws people to Himself. He uses circumstances, His Word, people, and even pureed food to pursue hearts. Be encouraged in your witness for Him. He will use your words and deeds in His pursuit of those who need Christ.

It is not always words galore
Nor brilliancy of speech
That opens wide the gospel door
Within the sinner’s reach. —Rotz

Love is the magnet that draws believers together and attracts unbelievers to Christ.

 

[following-Him]

Today the readings are Word For Today (www.ucb.co.uk) and Our Daily Bread (www.odb.org)

Word For Today

The Truth About the Truth (1)26 Jun 2012'...You desire truth in the inward parts...' Psalm 51:6According to Psychology Today, more people say they have cheated on their marriage partners than on their income tax returns or expense accounts. Nearly half say that if they scratched another car in the parking lot they would drive away without leaving a note, although 89 percent agree that it would be wrong. Perhaps the question shouldn't be, 'Why does God demand such honesty of us?', but rather, 'Why do we tolerate such dishonesty?' Jeremiah weighs in: 'The heart is deceitful above all things...' (Jeremiah 17:9 NIV). For many of us, our credo is, 'You shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you squirm.' At the age of three, when Mum asked, 'Did you hit your little brother?' we knew that honesty had its consequences. So we learned to say, 'Uhhhh, well, it's not really lying.' We learned to cover things up. 'Did I hit my baby brother? That all depends on how you interpret the word hit. I mean, sure, I made contact with him, but would a jury consider it a hit? Everything is relative, you know.' We say, 'Did I hit my baby brother? Yes, Mom, I did. But it's not my fault. Had I been born with nonaggressive chromosomes and had you not permitted me to watch television, it would never have happened. So I can say I hit my brother, but the fault isn't mine. I'm a victim of nurture and nature.' We smile, but the Psalmist said, 'You desire truth in the inward parts, and in the hidden part You will make me to know wisdom.' And that's the truth about the truth.

Our Daily Bread

Cornered

One Sunday morning, D. L. Moody entered a house in Chicago to escort some children to Sunday school. During his visit, three men backed him into a corner and threatened him. “Look here,” Moody said. “Give a fellow a chance to say his prayers, won’t you?” The men actually allowed him to call out to God, and Moody prayed for them so earnestly that they left the room.

Had I been in Moody’s situation, I might have called for help or looked for the back door. I’m not sure I would have acted on Jesus’ command to His followers: “Pray for those who mistreat you” (Luke 6:28 NIV).

Praying for the people who treat us with contempt is one way to “do good to those who hate [us]” (v.27). Jesus explained that Christians get no credit for swapping acts of kindness with other “nice” people. He said, “Even sinners do the same” (v.33). However, blessing our persecutors (Rom. 12:14) sets us apart from them and aligns us with the Most High, because God is kind even to wicked people (Luke 6:35).

Today, if you feel “cornered” by someone, seek safety if the situation calls for it, and follow Jesus’ teaching: Pray for that person (Luke 23:34). Prayer is your best defense.

We want to know Your heart, Lord, and have Your
wisdom to know how to handle opposition.
Give us patience to show kindness.
Guide us, we pray.

Returning good for good is human; returning good for evil is divine.

 

[following-Him]

The readings for today are Word For Today (www.ucb.co.uk) and Our Daily Bread (www.odb.org).

Word For Today

The Truth About the Truth (2)27 Jun 2012'...You desire truth in the inward parts...' Psalm 51:6If we're brutally honest, we'd have to admit that sometimes the truth seems inadequate to do what we need done. We want our bosses to like us, so we flatter. We want our friends to admire us, so we exaggerate. We want people to respect us, so we live in houses we can't afford and charge bills we can't pay. Ananias and Sapphira sold a piece of property and gave a portion of the money to the church. But they lied, claiming the land sold for the amount of money they gave (Acts 5). Their sin was not in holding back some money for themselves; it was in misrepresenting the truth. And their deceit resulted in their deaths. You say, 'I'm glad God doesn't strike people dead today for lying.' Don't be so sure. Lying results in the death of: 1) A marriage. Falsehoods are termites in the trunk of the family tree. 2) A conscience. The tragedy of the second lie is that it's always easier to tell than the first. 3) A career. Just ask the employee who got fired for embezzlement. 4) Faith. Think: How can God use us if we won't tell the truth? Every American football team has a player assigned to carry the play from the coach to the huddle. But what if the player doesn't tell the truth? What if the coach calls for a pass but the player says the coach calls for a run? The coach won't call on him very long. God says if you are honest in small things He will trust you with greater things (Matthew 25:21). So, can God trust you?

Our Daily Bread

A Commitment To Care

During the months following the death of my wife’s mother, we received a number of cards and letters from the hospice team who had so lovingly cared for Mom and walked with our family along the pathway of loss. One letter offered thoughts on dealing constructively with grief. Another said, “As the date of your mother’s birthday approaches, we remember her, and our prayers and thoughts are with you and your family.” These wonderful caregivers know that grieving is an ongoing process that requires continuing help and support. They exhibit deep compassion in all they do.
Paul’s words “Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ” (Gal. 6:2) come as an exclamation point to his description of life in the Spirit. In contrast to the destructive, self-centered acts of the sinful nature (Gal. 5:19-21), the fruit of the Holy Spirit in and through us is “love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control” (vv.22-23). The great freedom we have in Christ allows us to serve each other in love (v.13).

A word of encouragement to a hurting friend can come like a refreshing rain. When we continue to care in tangible ways, it grows into a life-giving stream of healing and love.

Love is giving for the world’s needs,
Love is sharing as the Spirit leads,
Love is caring when the world cries,
Love is compassion with Christlike eyes. —Brandt

Compassion is the capacity to put Christlike love into action.

 

[following-Him]

The readings for today are Word For Todoay (www.ucb.co.uk) and Our Daily Bread (www.odb.org).

Word For Today

Courage (1)28 Jun 2012''Come, follow me,'..Jesus said, 'and I will make you fishers of men.'' Mark 1:17If you want to experience God's blessing in a new way, get ready to leave your comfort zone. When Jesus called His disciples they were on familiar turf, doing what they knew best: fishing. But they couldn't stay there and follow Him. Neither can you. The Bible records: 'As Jesus walked beside the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and his brother Andrew casting a net...for they were fishermen. 'Come, follow me,' Jesus said, 'and I will make you fishers of men.' At once they left their nets and followed him' (vv. 16-18 NIV). Notice, they had to leave the security of the familiar in order to fulfill their destiny. And in case you think you are too old to try something new, Abraham was seventy-five when he left the comforts of home to go out and establish a new nation. Your age is not the issue, your faith is. Understand this: today you are just one step of obedience away from the next truth God wants you to learn about Him, so you can't afford to stay where you are. We all have a tendency to cling to the 'tried and true.' The trouble with that is, when you are no longer being stretched you begin to shrink, you become complacent, you think you can handle things on your own, and you stop growing. That's a dangerous place to be. If you feel restless at heart today and believe that God has more for you than you've been settling for, then it's time to confront your fears, walk through them and launch out into a new experience with Him.

Our Daily bread

In Praise Of Sovereignty

In James Fenimore Cooper’s book The Last of the Mohicans, we become acquainted with a character named David Gamut. He is a devout Christian who delights in setting the Psalms to music and singing them no matter what circumstances life brings his way. Gamut believes that God can be trusted in crisis as well as in good times. He lives a life in praise of God’s sovereignty—His supreme power, authority, and control over the world.
The Bible tells us about another David, a flesh-and-blood person who was no stranger to unpredictable life circumstances and who loved to respond to God in praise: King David of Israel. He saw the giant Goliath fall by his sling, he was chased by the murderous King Saul, and he watched the nation of Israel rally under his own leadership. Yet in all these situations, David took time to write and sing psalms of praise to his sovereign God. For example, he wrote, “The Lord has established His throne in heaven, and His kingdom rules over all” (Ps. 103:19). David understood that in all circumstances we can worship and thank God for His care and control.
What are you experiencing today? A time of blessing or of testing? In any event, remember David’s example, and sing praises to God for His rule in our lives.

Lord, shape my life as only You can,
Guiding each day by Your loving plan;
Take what You need and give what You will;
My life is Yours to use and to fill. —Branon

Praise the Lord! Praise Him according to His excellent greatness! —Psalm 150:1-2

 

[following-Him]

The Word For Today (www.ucb.co.uk) is the first of our readings today, followed by Our Daily Bread (www.odb.org).

Word For Today

Courage (2)29 Jun 2012'Rise up; this matter is in your hands...take courage and do it.' Ezra 10:4Pastor Andy Stanley writes: 'I keep a little card in my desk that reads: "Dream no small dreams, for they stir not the hearts of men." More than once that simple statement has kept me from retreating from my dreams. I know from experience that it's impossible to lead without a dream. When leaders are no longer willing to dream, it's only a short time before followers are unwilling to follow. So dream! Dream big. Dream often. Somewhere in those random ideas that flood your mind, is one that will capture your heart and imagination. And that seemingly random idea may very well evolve into a vision for your life.' Every great accomplishment begins as a dream in someone's heart. All things are created twice: first in your mind, and then in your life. Dreamers allow their minds to wander outside the boundaries of what is, creating a mental picture of what can be. They are not always the most talented or best educated-just the ones who refuse to put brackets around their thinking or limit themselves to what others have done. Doing this requires courage, lots of it! On the heels of every dream there's a demon of doubt. No sooner is your dream conceived than your mind is suddenly filled with all the reasons why it may not work. And there will be folks around you who'll be quick to confirm those fears. In spite of that, you must forge ahead and dream; otherwise you'll spend the rest of your life fulfilling the dreams of others. 'Rise up; this matter is in your hands...take courage and do it.'

Our Daily Bread

Help Is On The Way

When 33 miners were trapped in a Chilean mine deep under the earth’s surface, I wonder if they felt totally lost and doomed to a slow and painful death. Imagine how they must have been filled with joy when they got a message from above that the rescue team knew exactly where they were and that the process of getting them out had already begun!

There are times in all of our lives when we feel like we’re stuck in a really bad place. Anxious and alone, we despair that we are out of options and that no one understands where we really are in life. But in such moments we need to remember God’s comforting words to the early Christians who were stuck in a world where Satan’s presence dominated all that was around them: “I know . . . where you dwell” (Rev. 2:13). Their situation had not escaped the heavenly Father’s notice. And as they were faithful to Him, He would sustain them until He rescued them and brought them safely home (v.17).

The fact that God knows where you are and that He is very much aware of the difficult situation you are in provides the confidence and strength needed to live for His glory. So be encouraged. Remember God’s words of comfort. Help is on the way!

For further study read Where Can We Find Comfort?
You know the struggles that we face, Lord.
You know just what we need to endure them.
Give us the confidence to trust You because of Your
goodness and to walk by faith. Amen.

Our greatest hope here below is help from God above.

 

[following-Him]

The readings for today are Word For Today (www.ucb.co.uk) and My Utmost For His Highest (http://utmost.org)

Word For Today

The Ultimate Therapy and Protection01 Jul 2012'She prodded him day after day until he was tired to death.' Judges 16:16When you're emotionally drained and under pressure, you're vulnerable to making serious mistakes. Samson did. Notice how Delilah brought him down: 'She prodded him day after day until he was tired to death. So he told her everything...' (vv. 16-17 NIV). You can attend church every week and read your Bible from cover to cover, but it will do you little good if you're running around physically and spiritually depleted. Furthermore, it's hard to live with such a person, and almost impossible to help them because their mind is in the grip of a negative force. You say, 'What's the answer?' 1) Examine the company you're keeping. When you need rest and relief go to the right people; when you're feeling down, reach for those who can lift you up. The Psalmist said, 'I am a friend to all...who follow your precepts' (Psalm 119:63 NIV). 2) Check your fuel gauge. Samson wore himself out in a good cause because he failed to replenish his soul. Are you doing that? One New Year's Day during the Tournament of Roses parade in California, a beautiful float suddenly sputtered and quit-out ofpetrol. The whole parade was held up until someone found a petrol can. The funny thing is, this float represented the Standard Oil Company. The Bible says, 'He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak' (Isaiah 40:29 NIV). As you spend time with God in prayer and the Scriptures, He will strengthen you and give you back your peace and stability. It's the ultimate therapy. It's also the ultimate protection!

My Utmost For His Highest

The Inevitable Penalty

July 1, 2012

You will by no means get out of there till you have paid the last penny —Matthew 5:26


There is no heaven that has a little corner of hell in it. God is determined to make you pure, holy, and right, and He will not allow you to escape from the scrutiny of the Holy Spirit for even one moment. He urged you to come to judgment immediately when He convicted you, but you did not obey. Then the inevitable process began to work, bringing its inevitable penalty. Now you have been “thrown into prison, [and] . . . you will by no means get out of there till you have paid the last penny” (5:25-26). Yet you ask, “Is this a God of mercy and love?” When seen from God’s perspective, it is a glorious ministry of love. God is going to bring you out pure, spotless, and undefiled, but He wants you to recognize the nature you were exhibiting— the nature of demanding your right to yourself. The moment you are willing for God to change your nature, His recreating forces will begin to work. And the moment you realize that God’s purpose is to get you into the right relationship with Himself and then with others, He will reach to the very limits of the universe to help you take the right road. Decide to do it right now, saying, “Yes, Lord, I will write that letter,” or, “I will be reconciled to that person now.”

These sermons of Jesus Christ are meant for your will and your conscience, not for your head. If you dispute these verses from the Sermon on the Mount with your head, you will dull the appeal to your heart.

If you find yourself asking, “I wonder why I’m not growing spiritually with God?”— then ask yourself if you are paying your debts from God’s standpoint. Do now what you will have to do someday. Every moral question or call comes with an “ought” behind it— the knowledge of knowing what we ought to do.

 

[following-Him]

The readings for today are Word For Today (www.ucb.co.uk) and Our Daily Bread (www.odb.org).

Word For Today

God's Reward System (1)02 Jul 2012'...He will receive his reward.' 1 Corinthians 3:14Read these three Scriptures: 1) '...The fire will test the quality of each man's work. If what he has built survives, he will receive his reward. If it is burned up, he will suffer loss...' (vv. 13-15 NIV). 2) 'No one who has left home or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or fields for me and the gospel will fail to receive a hundred times as much in this present age (homes, brothers, sisters, mothers, children and fields-and with them, persecutions)...' (Mark 10:29-30 NIV). 3) 'When you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind, and you will be blessed. Although they cannot repay you, you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous' (Luke 14:13-14 NIV). These Scriptures clearly teach that God records your deeds and rewards you for them. Some of your rewards will come in this life, and some will come in the next. If you fail to understand that, you'll find yourself saying, 'I served God faithfully, so why am I still struggling? Doesn't God notice or care?' Yes, God notices and He cares. But He doesn't promise that the work you do for Him now will always result in gain from Him now. Many of the rewards God has for us are so great that it will take eternity to appreciate and enjoy them. Jesus said, 'Whoever gives you a cup of water to drink in My name...will by no means lose his reward' (Mark 9:41 NKJV). No deed for God will be overlooked or go unrewarded-even a cup of cold water or a prayer in the middle of the night.

Our Daily Bread

A New Day

In a morning meeting I recently attended, the person who opened the gathering began by praying, “Lord, thanks for today. It is the beginning of a new day we have never seen before.” Although the idea seemed obvious, that prayer got me thinking about a couple of different things. First, because each day is a new opportunity, it will be filled with things we cannot anticipate or even prepare for. Therefore, it’s important that we recognize our limitations and lean heavily on God—intentionally choosing to live in His grace and strength rather than relying on our own resources.

The second thing that occurred to me is that the newness of each day is a gift worth celebrating. Perhaps this concept was what prompted the psalmist to declare, “This is the day the Lord has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it” (Ps. 118:24).

Of course, we face many unknowns today—and some could be difficult. But the treasure of each brand-new day is so special that Moses was led to write, “Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom” (90:12). Every new day is a precious gift. May we thankfully embrace each one with confident trust and humble celebration.

He whose heart is kind beyond all measure
Gives unto each day what He deems best—
Lovingly, its part of pain and pleasure,
Mingling toil with peace and rest. —Berg

Each new day gives us new reasons to praise the Lord.

 

[following-Him]

The readings for today are Word For Today (www.ucb.co.uk) and Our Daily Bread (www.odb.org).

Word For Today

God's Reward System (2)03 Jul 2012'...He will receive his reward.' 1 Corinthians 3:14How will God evaluate and reward what you did for Him during your lifetime here on earth? Based on three tests: 1) The relationship test. The life God rewards is not a life of performance apart from relationship with Him. Jesus pointed out that unless you abide in Him and obey His commandments, you will not bear fruit for Him (John 15:5). He commended the church at Ephesus for their good works, then turned around and condemned them because they hadn't kept their love for Him alive. 'I know your works, your labour, your patience...Nevertheless I have this against you, that you have left your first love' (Revelation 2:2-4 NKJV). 2) The motive test. Jesus said to the Pharisees, 'Take heed that you do not do your charitable deeds before men, to be seen by them. Otherwise you have no reward...in heaven' (Matthew 6:1 NKJV). Note the words 'to be seen.' What should our motive be? To serve God and bring glory to Him! Even simple things like eating and drinking can do that (1Corinthians 10:31). On the other hand, your most religious actions are worthless if your motive is to enhance your own ego and reputation. 3) The love test. Christ said, 'Love your enemies, do good, and lend, hoping for nothing in return; and your reward will be great...' (Luke 6:35 NKJV). When it comes to good works, why is always more important than what. The Bible says, 'Look to yourselves, that we do not lose those things we worked for, but that we may receive a full reward' (2 John 8 NKJV). So keep your heart pure and your motives right!

Our Daily Bread

E-Mail Prayer

Not long ago, a friend of mine was facing surgery. Two disks in his back and a detached Achilles tendon were creating a lot of pain. After assuring him of my prayers, I was struck with the idea of sending him something in writing to further encourage him. So I sent the following e-mail:

“This is what I prayed for you today. ‘Living God, I thank You for Your sovereign control over life’s events. On behalf of Your dear servant, I ask that You would give him deep peace. I pray for the physicians as they apply their medical skills, that You would give them excellent results. May Your healing hand touch him and bring him back into full service for You. In Jesus’ name. Amen.’ ”

The apostle Paul wrote prayers to encourage other believers (Phil. 1:9-11; Col. 1:9-12; 2 Thess. 1:11-12). He wrote to the Ephesians: “ do not cease to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers: that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him” (1:16-17).

Do you have friends or family members who need your prayers of encouragement right now? Besides letting them know that you’re praying for them, try sending a written prayer as well.

Lord, help us be encouragers
By praying for our friends in need;
And give us opportunities
To show them love in word and deed. —Sper

Praying for others is a privilege—and a responsibility.

 

[following-Him]

The readings for today are Word For Today (www.ucb.co.uk) and Our Daily Bread (www.odb.org).

Word For Today

The Benefits of Making Jesus 'Lord'04 Jul 2012'...No one can say that Jesus is Lord except by the Holy Spirit.' 1 Corinthians 12:3Making Jesus 'Lord' of your life means that He must have the first and last word in all things which concern you. It means you are called to walk with Him, to prove yourself valuable to Him, to please Him and do what He wants, when He wants it, and in the way He wants it done. Here are three great benefits that come from putting Jesus behind the wheel and making Him 'Lord.' 1) When you don't know what to say, He will tell you. 'The Sovereign Lord has given me his words of wisdom, so that I may know how to comfort the weary. Morning by morning he wakens me and opens my understanding to his will. The Sovereign Lord has spoken to me, and I have listened. I have not rebelled or turned away' (Isaiah 50:4-5 NLT). 2) When you can't defend yourself, He will fight for you. '...The Lord is my fortress, protecting me from danger, so why should I tremble? When evil people come to devour me...they will stumble and fall. Though a mighty army surrounds me, my heart will not be afraid. Even if I am attacked, I will remain confident' (Psalm 27:1-3 NLT). 3) When the burden feels too heavy, He will carry it for you. 'Give your burdens to the Lord, and he will take care of you. He will not permit the godly to slip and fall' (Psalm 55:22 NLT). And these three benefits are yours when you make Jesus 'Lord' over every area of your life.

Our Daily bread

Fireworks and Freedom

Thanks to the ingenuity of our Chinese friends, we here in the US celebrate our independence this month with massive displays of colorful fireworks.

Every year when we sing our national anthem and enjoy the vibrant patterns created by “bombs bursting in air,” I remind myself that most bombs are deadly, not beautiful like the fireworks display. Although both use similar ingredients, one is intended to kill; the other to entertain. In this metaphor we see an example of how something can be used for both good and evil. In the hands of capable, careful, and caring people, something dangerous becomes glorious. But the opposite is also true.
Freedom—the very thing we celebrate with fireworks—can also be used for good and evil. As believers in Christ, we are free from the restrictive Mosaic law, but the Bible warns us not to use our spiritual freedom for selfish purposes: “Do not use liberty as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another” (Gal. 5:13).

Not everyone has political and religious freedom, but all believers in Christ have spiritual freedom. We must not use it as a weapon to impose our will on others but to display the glory of God’s will.

Free from the law—O happy condition!
Jesus hath bled, and there is remission;
Cursed by the law and bruised by the fall,
Grace hath redeemed us once for all. —Bliss

Freedom doesn’t give us the right to do what we please, but to do what pleases God.

 

[following-Him]

The readings for today are Word For Today (www.ucb.co.uk) and Our Daily Bread (www.odb.org)

Word For Today

Four Ways to Build a Relationship with the Lord05 Jul 2012'Grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord...' 2 Peter 3:18First, Make up your mind. Spiritual growth doesn't happen by osmosis. You don't just wake up with it one morning, you have to set your heart on it and make it your highest priority. Otherwise it won't happen. The Bible says: 'Let not that man suppose he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways' (James 1:7 NKJV). Second, Break up your will. Until your will is surrendered to God and brought into alignment with His purposes, you will go in circles spiritually. Israel went in circles in the wilderness for forty years, yet they were only eleven miles from the Promised Land. Don't let that happen to you. 'Now may the God of peace...make you complete in every good work to do His will, working in you what is well pleasing in His sight' (Hebrews 13:20-21 NKJV). Third, Wake up your faith. Obey the leadings of God's Spirit. Don't be afraid, He will not let you down. Just make sure you don't let Him down. 'Without faith it is impossible to please Him, for He who comes to God must believe that He is...a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him' (Hebrews 11:6 NKJV). Fourth, Take up your cross. '...If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, take up his cross, and follow Me. For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it' (Matthew 16:24-25 NKJV). If you're serious about building a relationship with the Lord, do these four things.

Our Daily Bread

My Buddy William

As we got off the bus at a home for mentally and physically challenged children in Copse, Jamaica, I didn’t expect to find a football player. While the teen choir and the other adult chaperones dispersed to find kids to hug, love, and play with, I came upon a young man named William.
I’m not sure what William’s medical diagnosis was, but he looked like he probably had cerebral palsy. I had grabbed a football before getting off the bus, so I tossed it gently to William, who dropped it.

But when I picked it up and put it into his hands, he slowly manipulated it until he had it just how he wanted it. Then, leaning back against a railing for balance, William tossed a perfect spiral. For the next 45 minutes, we played toss and catch—he tossed, I caught. William laughed and laughed—and stole my heart. On that day he had as much impact on me, I’m sure, as I did on him. He taught me that we are all needed as a part of Christ’s body, the church (1 Cor. 12:20-25).

People often dismiss others who are different from themselves. But it is the Williams of the world who teach us that joy can come when we accept others and respond in compassion. Is there a William in your world who needs you to be his buddy?

Lord, help us to see how much we need each other
in our Christian walk. May we show Your love
to others who are different than us. Give us an
open heart to learn. Amen.

We need one another in order to be who God wants us to be.