2 Samuel 3; 1 Chronicles 12; Matthew 15
Scripture:
Mathew 15:10Jesus called the crowd to him and said, "Listen and understand. 11What goes into a man's mouth does not make him 'unclean,' but what comes out of his mouth, that is what makes him 'unclean.' "
Observation:
What a great reminder for me today that what concerns the Lord is what comes in and out of my heart. God is more concerned about my character / heart than my gifts or talents. God searches the heart of a man, He knows a man better than he knows himself. May God know me and may I obey Him.
Application:
It is amazing how many people are being busted by steroid use lately. Barry Bonds on trial, allegations against Lance Armstrong. These guys seem to be clean so far, but then there is Marion Jones, guilty, and many more others. They were all heroes in there fields for a season, and then they got busted and in a few days they were fallen and booed. On the outside phenomenal, but on the inside cheaters. I do not judge these, but pray for them. There is a greater arena of life, it's called the spiritual journey. As a child of God I do not want to be disqualified. Disqualified because on the outside I looked good, but on the inside my heart was wicked, my lifestyle hypocritical and judgemental, and my motives impure. Lately my attitude has been bad. I have been angry, frustrated, tied and judgemental. I let the guard down and now I feel my heart has been polluted. I am glad for the grace of God. I am glad for the awakening of my spirit by the gentle words of the Holy Spirit. I hear Him clearly, "Guard your heart, take care of your spirit, rest." I know these words to well. I sit in the place of solitude today. I am waiting for a fresh touch of heaven. God is faithful. He will work it out for me, He know me better than I know myself. I rest in Him.
Prayer:
God thank You for grace. Thank You for forgiveness and restoration. Thank You for my friend Marc in whom I could confide. Thank You for the wisdom You spoke to me today. Clean my heart this day, restore to me the joy of my salvation. Feed my spirit in this time and thank You for holding me in this season. I pray for a guard over me heart, mind and ears. I pray for the filter of the Holy Spirit to remove the pollution the enemy would want to bring my way. Be with my pastor today and speak to him. Guide him in this season, bless him. Bless my wife and thank You for her. I pray for urgency and the change, bring peace and wisdom into the hearts of the leaders. I pray for Your will. I pray Pulse and for every person that is invited and I ask You to start a new work. We need a move in the young adults. Lord align me to Your will. Thank You for all You are doing and about to do. Thank You for the promise of Jer 29, You truly have a hope and future for my life.
Amen.
Quote for this Season
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Monday, April 27, 2009
Stand Up & Lead
2 Samuel 2; 1 Chronicles 11; Psalm 142; Matthew 14
Scripture:
Matthew 14:16Jesus replied, "They do not need to go away. You give them something to eat."
Matthew 14: 31Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. "You of little faith," he said, "why did you doubt?"
Observation:
These two passages of scripture have always been a blessing to me. Jesus looks at His disciples and questions there inability to meet the need of the people. He instructs them to feed the people and they resort to nature thinking. It was late, where would they get food? Jesus performs one of the most well known miracles of feeding the crowd with a few fish and loaves of bread. The second passages too, is a well known one. Peter walking on the water and then sinking through fear, but saved by the hand of Jesus. We see how Jesus challenged his fear and doubt. He was already walking on water, he did not have to doubt, because he was already experienced the miracle of water walking. Only fear could rob him.
Application:
We live in a time where people are desperate, they need help, they need faith that it is going to work out. God has placed me in a position to feed them. He has anointed me to minister to His people. At times I even start to look at the economy and struggles of life, fear starts to creep in and it paralyzes my faith and hope. I start to look at my job security, finances, debt and wonder where did I go wrong. For the past couple of months, I have been getting my life in order. In order with my relationship with God, my marriage, finances and other relationships. I was doing well, but then fear started to creep in because of the environment around me. It is the same thing that happened to Peter. I was living in blessing and then I got my eyes of the Lord and started to look and listen to storms around me. Praise God for Jesus and His hand in this season. I cannot afford to let the enemy paralyze me and prevent me from doing my calling, that of taking care of the sheep of the Lord. I am determined to feed the sheep He has called me too. I cannot let the storms of life dictate my faith, attitude and emotions. I believe in Jesus Christ. I believe in blessing. I believe in miracles. I believe this we live in a time of God's greatest outpouring. I have experienced it before and I will experience it again.
Prayer:
Father forgive me for listening to the voices around me and not to You. Forgive me for thoughts, attitudes and a lifestyle of fear. I know the blessing of God. You have never let me down and You never will. You hold my future in Your hands. I thank You today for a turn around in my life. I thank You today for blessing, and faith. I believe, I believe that I am blessed, I believe God will restore all the enemy has stolen and He will multiply it over my life. I believe for promotion in this season of my life, elevation and multiplication. I speak it in the Name of Jesus. Father open the windows of heaven and pour out a blessing. Father give the words, revelation, wisdom and discernment of Your will to speak to Your sheep. I'm available, use me. Bless my wife this day, refresh her and anoint her. Thank You for her. I pray for this week, I speak breakthrough, new doors and new blessings. I bind the enemy and thank You that every snare that has held me down is broken in the Name of Jesus.
Amen.
Scripture:
Matthew 14:16Jesus replied, "They do not need to go away. You give them something to eat."
Matthew 14: 31Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. "You of little faith," he said, "why did you doubt?"
Observation:
These two passages of scripture have always been a blessing to me. Jesus looks at His disciples and questions there inability to meet the need of the people. He instructs them to feed the people and they resort to nature thinking. It was late, where would they get food? Jesus performs one of the most well known miracles of feeding the crowd with a few fish and loaves of bread. The second passages too, is a well known one. Peter walking on the water and then sinking through fear, but saved by the hand of Jesus. We see how Jesus challenged his fear and doubt. He was already walking on water, he did not have to doubt, because he was already experienced the miracle of water walking. Only fear could rob him.
Application:
We live in a time where people are desperate, they need help, they need faith that it is going to work out. God has placed me in a position to feed them. He has anointed me to minister to His people. At times I even start to look at the economy and struggles of life, fear starts to creep in and it paralyzes my faith and hope. I start to look at my job security, finances, debt and wonder where did I go wrong. For the past couple of months, I have been getting my life in order. In order with my relationship with God, my marriage, finances and other relationships. I was doing well, but then fear started to creep in because of the environment around me. It is the same thing that happened to Peter. I was living in blessing and then I got my eyes of the Lord and started to look and listen to storms around me. Praise God for Jesus and His hand in this season. I cannot afford to let the enemy paralyze me and prevent me from doing my calling, that of taking care of the sheep of the Lord. I am determined to feed the sheep He has called me too. I cannot let the storms of life dictate my faith, attitude and emotions. I believe in Jesus Christ. I believe in blessing. I believe in miracles. I believe this we live in a time of God's greatest outpouring. I have experienced it before and I will experience it again.
Prayer:
Father forgive me for listening to the voices around me and not to You. Forgive me for thoughts, attitudes and a lifestyle of fear. I know the blessing of God. You have never let me down and You never will. You hold my future in Your hands. I thank You today for a turn around in my life. I thank You today for blessing, and faith. I believe, I believe that I am blessed, I believe God will restore all the enemy has stolen and He will multiply it over my life. I believe for promotion in this season of my life, elevation and multiplication. I speak it in the Name of Jesus. Father open the windows of heaven and pour out a blessing. Father give the words, revelation, wisdom and discernment of Your will to speak to Your sheep. I'm available, use me. Bless my wife this day, refresh her and anoint her. Thank You for her. I pray for this week, I speak breakthrough, new doors and new blessings. I bind the enemy and thank You that every snare that has held me down is broken in the Name of Jesus.
Amen.
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Finding Life
1 Samuel 27; Psalm 141; 1 Chronicles 9; Matthew 10
Scripture:
Matthew 10:38and anyone who does not take his cross and follow me is not worthy of me. 39Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.
Observation:
Jesus prepares his disciples to go out for the first time on their own. He gives them clear instructions to go out in faith, for God will provided every need. They are to pray for the sick, heal the leprous, and preach the message of Jesus Christ. God will guide their every step, and He will give them the words. This must have shook the disciples, they had seen Jesus do miracles and wonders, they had seen Him heal the blind, raise the dead and cast out demons. Now He turns to them, gives them authority, and says, "You do it!" What would people think, what if they failed, what if they missed it, what if they were beaten. Jesus answers all these questions, and simply says, "pick up your cross and follow." He breaks it all down, "If you want to find your life, then lose it!"
Applications:
This verse is still so radical for today. It might be even more relevant, because the world we live in defines people so much. What you wear, where you live, what you drive, how much money you have, what you job title is... All this and more the world uses to define a man's life. Yet Jesus defines a man's life by his soul. Where is that going, how is my soul defined. Is t God's or my own? Who am I living for. To find myself, Jesus states, I must lose my life. How do I do that? Simple, I live for Him, I live through Him, I live by Him. My faith in Jesus is all I need. I do not need 'sandals, a tunic, copper, gold or silver.' I need faith in the One who called me and the One who is leading me. May I 'lose' my life in living for Him today, because then truly, I will find it!
Prayer:
Thank You Jesus for the great reminder that life is really all about You. Forgive me for getting wrapped up in the things of this world. What You say is most important to me. Thank You for slowing down the pace of my life. I can feel refreshing coming. I pray today for wisdom, favor and discernment. I pray for favor and restoration in the arena of my finances. You are my source and I thank You for working it all out for me. Go before me in this area of my life. I hold onto the word You gave me of 'Restoration, Elevation and Multiplication.' May it be done according to Your word. Bless my wife today and give her peace. I thank You for all this and pray it in the Name Above All Names, Jesus.
Amen.
Scripture:
Matthew 10:38and anyone who does not take his cross and follow me is not worthy of me. 39Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.
Observation:
Jesus prepares his disciples to go out for the first time on their own. He gives them clear instructions to go out in faith, for God will provided every need. They are to pray for the sick, heal the leprous, and preach the message of Jesus Christ. God will guide their every step, and He will give them the words. This must have shook the disciples, they had seen Jesus do miracles and wonders, they had seen Him heal the blind, raise the dead and cast out demons. Now He turns to them, gives them authority, and says, "You do it!" What would people think, what if they failed, what if they missed it, what if they were beaten. Jesus answers all these questions, and simply says, "pick up your cross and follow." He breaks it all down, "If you want to find your life, then lose it!"
Applications:
This verse is still so radical for today. It might be even more relevant, because the world we live in defines people so much. What you wear, where you live, what you drive, how much money you have, what you job title is... All this and more the world uses to define a man's life. Yet Jesus defines a man's life by his soul. Where is that going, how is my soul defined. Is t God's or my own? Who am I living for. To find myself, Jesus states, I must lose my life. How do I do that? Simple, I live for Him, I live through Him, I live by Him. My faith in Jesus is all I need. I do not need 'sandals, a tunic, copper, gold or silver.' I need faith in the One who called me and the One who is leading me. May I 'lose' my life in living for Him today, because then truly, I will find it!
Prayer:
Thank You Jesus for the great reminder that life is really all about You. Forgive me for getting wrapped up in the things of this world. What You say is most important to me. Thank You for slowing down the pace of my life. I can feel refreshing coming. I pray today for wisdom, favor and discernment. I pray for favor and restoration in the arena of my finances. You are my source and I thank You for working it all out for me. Go before me in this area of my life. I hold onto the word You gave me of 'Restoration, Elevation and Multiplication.' May it be done according to Your word. Bless my wife today and give her peace. I thank You for all this and pray it in the Name Above All Names, Jesus.
Amen.
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Serving my leaders
1 Samuel 24, Psalm 57; 1 Chronicles 8; Matthew 8
Scripture:
1 Samuel 24: 5 Afterward, David was conscience-stricken for having cut off a corner of his robe. 6 He said to his men, "The LORD forbid that I should do such a thing to my master, the LORD's anointed, or lift my hand against him; for he is the anointed of the LORD." 7 With these words David rebuked his men and did not allow them to attack Saul. And Saul left the cave and went his way.
Observation:
Once again we see the integrity and obedience of David. He could have so easily killed king Saul and taken the throne for himself. His own men remind him of the prophecy spoken over his life that God would hand his enemies into his hand, but Saul was not an enemy. Saul was the anointed man of God for the time and David knew that he would only become king at the hand of the Lord. It was not his for the taking. David honors his king, he honors his position, and humbles himself before king Saul and his own men. David modeled integrity and obedience to his ow men. This would be a vital part of his success in the future. He sowed want he needed to reap in the future, loyalty.
Application:
At this time in the passage, Saul was not a great or godly king. His heart was wicked and the Lord was about to replace him. David was running from Saul and he could so easily have killed him. I love David's respect for his king, he honors the position and the man. In the church sometimes, it is not easy to honor leaders. In fact so many people find fault with their leaders today. It is almost like they are consistently under the microscope and every decision, message or plan is judged or criticized. I must always remember to never judge a man until I have walked a mile in his moccasins. This is a great and old Indian saying, yet its weight in truth is heavy. Someday I will lead a church, not sure when, but then all the weight of leadership is on me. Then I'm in the spotlight. I must sow integrity and righteousness now. I must honor my leaders like never before now. I, just like David, want mighty men around me, and so for this season of my life, I must become a mighty man for my leaders. The great truth and reminder this day, is that God is in control. God anoints men and places them in position. God is the judge and I must stand before Him. When He sees me as fit to lead, then He will promote me, until then, I must be concerned about the state of my own heart and leadership influence. As Jesus declared, "Why do you worry about the speck of dust in your brothers eye, when you have a log in your own?"
Prayer:
Father forgive me for judging my leader this morning. They are in a tough season and it is not easy to lead. Bless them today, help them to make the wise decisions to move our church forward. Bring discernment, clarity and faith to them today. Refresh Pastor Dick and Adam. Give them insight into what is going on and a word to stand on. Father show me how best to serve my pastors and to help them reach the vision for our church. Keep my heart pure and humble. I pray for my heart this morning. Sift out the chaff and purify my thoughts. I pray for wisdom on how to lead. I pray that I would be a better leader and communicate with greater clarity. Help me to not sit with frustrations and help me to keep my mouth silent. I do not like to sit with information or frustrations, so help me to process wisely. I pray for urgency today and ask You to bless our students and leaders. I pray for every student that is struggling in life today heal their broken hearts and deliver them. Fill them with hope and peace today. I pray for wisdom in building Pulse and I pray that You build it. If You are not the foundation of it, then it will not succeed. I pray for my wife today, bless her and refresh her. Fill her with hope and vision. I pray for the songs of heaven to flood her heart and mind. Thank You for her love and devotion, she is a true blessing to me. Thank You for a new day Lord, lead me now I pray, and at the end of it all, may I have lived for You today.
Amen.
Scripture:
1 Samuel 24: 5 Afterward, David was conscience-stricken for having cut off a corner of his robe. 6 He said to his men, "The LORD forbid that I should do such a thing to my master, the LORD's anointed, or lift my hand against him; for he is the anointed of the LORD." 7 With these words David rebuked his men and did not allow them to attack Saul. And Saul left the cave and went his way.
Observation:
Once again we see the integrity and obedience of David. He could have so easily killed king Saul and taken the throne for himself. His own men remind him of the prophecy spoken over his life that God would hand his enemies into his hand, but Saul was not an enemy. Saul was the anointed man of God for the time and David knew that he would only become king at the hand of the Lord. It was not his for the taking. David honors his king, he honors his position, and humbles himself before king Saul and his own men. David modeled integrity and obedience to his ow men. This would be a vital part of his success in the future. He sowed want he needed to reap in the future, loyalty.
Application:
At this time in the passage, Saul was not a great or godly king. His heart was wicked and the Lord was about to replace him. David was running from Saul and he could so easily have killed him. I love David's respect for his king, he honors the position and the man. In the church sometimes, it is not easy to honor leaders. In fact so many people find fault with their leaders today. It is almost like they are consistently under the microscope and every decision, message or plan is judged or criticized. I must always remember to never judge a man until I have walked a mile in his moccasins. This is a great and old Indian saying, yet its weight in truth is heavy. Someday I will lead a church, not sure when, but then all the weight of leadership is on me. Then I'm in the spotlight. I must sow integrity and righteousness now. I must honor my leaders like never before now. I, just like David, want mighty men around me, and so for this season of my life, I must become a mighty man for my leaders. The great truth and reminder this day, is that God is in control. God anoints men and places them in position. God is the judge and I must stand before Him. When He sees me as fit to lead, then He will promote me, until then, I must be concerned about the state of my own heart and leadership influence. As Jesus declared, "Why do you worry about the speck of dust in your brothers eye, when you have a log in your own?"
Prayer:
Father forgive me for judging my leader this morning. They are in a tough season and it is not easy to lead. Bless them today, help them to make the wise decisions to move our church forward. Bring discernment, clarity and faith to them today. Refresh Pastor Dick and Adam. Give them insight into what is going on and a word to stand on. Father show me how best to serve my pastors and to help them reach the vision for our church. Keep my heart pure and humble. I pray for my heart this morning. Sift out the chaff and purify my thoughts. I pray for wisdom on how to lead. I pray that I would be a better leader and communicate with greater clarity. Help me to not sit with frustrations and help me to keep my mouth silent. I do not like to sit with information or frustrations, so help me to process wisely. I pray for urgency today and ask You to bless our students and leaders. I pray for every student that is struggling in life today heal their broken hearts and deliver them. Fill them with hope and peace today. I pray for wisdom in building Pulse and I pray that You build it. If You are not the foundation of it, then it will not succeed. I pray for my wife today, bless her and refresh her. Fill her with hope and vision. I pray for the songs of heaven to flood her heart and mind. Thank You for her love and devotion, she is a true blessing to me. Thank You for a new day Lord, lead me now I pray, and at the end of it all, may I have lived for You today.
Amen.
Monday, April 20, 2009
God is not shaken
1 Samuel 23; Psalm 31,54; Matthew 7
Scripture:
Psalm 23:1 In you, O LORD, I have taken refuge;
let me never be put to shame;
deliver me in your righteousness.
Psalm 23:19 How great is your goodness,
which you have stored up for those who fear you,
which you bestow in the sight of men
on those who take refuge in you.
Observation:
David knew the favor of the Lord was his success. He knew how to obey, follow and listen for the voice of the Lord. Even though it seemed he might be down and out, even though the king sought to kill him, David kept his eyes on the Lord and lived righteously before the Lord. He could have rebelled against Saul, he could have started a revolution or a political campaign, instead he did the wisest thing ever, he simply trusted and obeyed the Lord. David knew that no man could stand in the way of his destiny, no king, nothing was impossible for his God.
Application:
We live in tough times now. Economic, political and social toughness. People are depressed, people losing jobs, stress, yet one thing I know is that God is still in control. He is my Hope, my Future, my Provider, the One who holds my future in His hands. At times my flesh gets fearful, angry, even disappointed at where I am at. I have been feeling like the harder I work the tougher things seem to become. I know this and declare it today, God is my God, He will never forsake me. As David declared, I declare today, "I have never seen the righteous forsaken, nor their children begging for bread." May God work a miracle for me today!
Prayer:
Father, I thank You that You never change. There is none like You. I thank You today that I can turn to You in these times and know that Your hand is at work for me. I pray today for a miracle. You know my need and I thank You for working it out for me. Bless this day and help me to be a blessing to others. Go before me and speak to me in the ways I should walk. I pray for wisdom, discernment and favor in these times. I know all I have comes from You.
Amen.
Scripture:
Psalm 23:1 In you, O LORD, I have taken refuge;
let me never be put to shame;
deliver me in your righteousness.
Psalm 23:19 How great is your goodness,
which you have stored up for those who fear you,
which you bestow in the sight of men
on those who take refuge in you.
Observation:
David knew the favor of the Lord was his success. He knew how to obey, follow and listen for the voice of the Lord. Even though it seemed he might be down and out, even though the king sought to kill him, David kept his eyes on the Lord and lived righteously before the Lord. He could have rebelled against Saul, he could have started a revolution or a political campaign, instead he did the wisest thing ever, he simply trusted and obeyed the Lord. David knew that no man could stand in the way of his destiny, no king, nothing was impossible for his God.
Application:
We live in tough times now. Economic, political and social toughness. People are depressed, people losing jobs, stress, yet one thing I know is that God is still in control. He is my Hope, my Future, my Provider, the One who holds my future in His hands. At times my flesh gets fearful, angry, even disappointed at where I am at. I have been feeling like the harder I work the tougher things seem to become. I know this and declare it today, God is my God, He will never forsake me. As David declared, I declare today, "I have never seen the righteous forsaken, nor their children begging for bread." May God work a miracle for me today!
Prayer:
Father, I thank You that You never change. There is none like You. I thank You today that I can turn to You in these times and know that Your hand is at work for me. I pray today for a miracle. You know my need and I thank You for working it out for me. Bless this day and help me to be a blessing to others. Go before me and speak to me in the ways I should walk. I pray for wisdom, discernment and favor in these times. I know all I have comes from You.
Amen.
Friday, April 17, 2009
Fortress and Refuge
1 Samuel 19; 1 Chronicles 7; Psalm 59; Matthew 4
Scripture:
Ps 59:16 But I will sing of your strength,
in the morning I will sing of your love;
for you are my fortress,
my refuge in times of trouble.
Observation:
David knew how to withdraw into God's presence in the midst of tough times. His strength was God, he trusted God and knew that with God on his side, nothing would be impossible. God was his fortress and refuge. David sung this in the midst of the storms of life, he meditated on the Lord and focused his emotions around the truth of God. What a great lesson and reminder for me today.
Application:
The past few weeks have been stressful and the work load huge. It seems as if every step forward to the end of the workload, turns out to be three steps backwards. I am reminder today that the most important part of my life is God. I have been stressing instead of praising and trusting Him. Today's culture teaches you to be independent of God. It teaches you to work it out and to battle through. God teaches us to trust and obey, to wait on Him and to listen for His voice. Today I am reminder that the Lord will get me through. That He can strengthen me and lead me through. I choose today to rest in God, to sing His songs to focus my thoughts and mind on Him. As the old hymn goes, "This is the day, this day that the Lord has made, I will rejoice, I will rejoice and be glad in it."
Prayer:
Holy Spirit I ask You to fill my day with joy, peace, love and patience. I ask You to guide me through this day and to help me to work with favor and success. I pray for the message tonight and for a fresh word. I pray for open hearts and minds and for life change. I pray Holy Spirit that You would change the way I work. I want to spend more time on the important things like studying and prayer, and less on little tasks that steal my time. I pray today for my staff and ask You to sharpen us and to help us work in a smoother and more efficient manner. Guide us and bring a spirit of unity amongst us. I pray for my wife today and ask You to bless her. Make me sensitive to her needs. Thank You for all You are doing, I bless Your Holy Name.
Amen.
Scripture:
Ps 59:16 But I will sing of your strength,
in the morning I will sing of your love;
for you are my fortress,
my refuge in times of trouble.
Observation:
David knew how to withdraw into God's presence in the midst of tough times. His strength was God, he trusted God and knew that with God on his side, nothing would be impossible. God was his fortress and refuge. David sung this in the midst of the storms of life, he meditated on the Lord and focused his emotions around the truth of God. What a great lesson and reminder for me today.
Application:
The past few weeks have been stressful and the work load huge. It seems as if every step forward to the end of the workload, turns out to be three steps backwards. I am reminder today that the most important part of my life is God. I have been stressing instead of praising and trusting Him. Today's culture teaches you to be independent of God. It teaches you to work it out and to battle through. God teaches us to trust and obey, to wait on Him and to listen for His voice. Today I am reminder that the Lord will get me through. That He can strengthen me and lead me through. I choose today to rest in God, to sing His songs to focus my thoughts and mind on Him. As the old hymn goes, "This is the day, this day that the Lord has made, I will rejoice, I will rejoice and be glad in it."
Prayer:
Holy Spirit I ask You to fill my day with joy, peace, love and patience. I ask You to guide me through this day and to help me to work with favor and success. I pray for the message tonight and for a fresh word. I pray for open hearts and minds and for life change. I pray Holy Spirit that You would change the way I work. I want to spend more time on the important things like studying and prayer, and less on little tasks that steal my time. I pray today for my staff and ask You to sharpen us and to help us work in a smoother and more efficient manner. Guide us and bring a spirit of unity amongst us. I pray for my wife today and ask You to bless her. Make me sensitive to her needs. Thank You for all You are doing, I bless Your Holy Name.
Amen.
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Keeping My Heart Pure
1 Samuel 18; 1 Chronicles 6; Psalm 11; Matthew 3
Scripture:
Psalm 11:7 For the LORD is righteous,
he loves justice;
upright men will see his face.
Observation:
God loves justice, He loves when that walk uprightly and obey His ways. The heart of a man is the doorway to the presence of the Lord. Jesus declared that He stands at the door of our heart and knocks. The heart of a man is the seat of all his being. A pure heart, a heart of compassion, a heart that is undivided, a heart that is loyal and faithful, that is what God seeks.
Application:
In the Old Testament, God declared that He would take out the heart of stone and give man a heart of flesh. There are times in a person's life where you heart can get cold. Cold towards God, towards your wife and friends. We all go through 'funks' in life. We all go through season's of withdrawal or isolation, season's of hiding our pain or disappointments. I have learned to keep an 'open' heart with God. When I am mad, I tell Him, and sometimes its not pretty, but it is good to get it out. Sometimes I'm disappointed, I tell I get it out. The Holy Spirit is a great filter for my life. He sifts out the junk in my heart, He convicts me of things that do not please the Lord, and challenges me to address them. Being a leader is not easy. There are times where I feel like I'm alone and carrying the load. Times where I get tied and emotions start to weigh me down. I felt a lot like that yesterday, tied, frustrated, a sense of what am I doing here. This morning though, I feel hope. I know that He is with me. I know He will guide me through the day. I am glad this day to simply ask the Lord to wash my heart. To soften my heart and to draw me close to Him.
Prayer:
Father thank You for a new day. Thank You for forgiving me of my sins and attitudes. I thank You for softening my heart. I ask You to fill me with joy, peace and wisdom today. Help me to lead well and to draw others to You. I pray for discernment to know Your will and to step out in it. Father bless my wife and protect her. I pray for wisdom for her life. Bless every urgency student today and keep them close to You. I pray for urgency and the next season that You would help us navigate through it with great success. Make me sensitive to the needs of parents and students. I pray for a fresh word today, fresh revelation and truth. Be with me today I pray.
Amen.
Scripture:
Psalm 11:7 For the LORD is righteous,
he loves justice;
upright men will see his face.
Observation:
God loves justice, He loves when that walk uprightly and obey His ways. The heart of a man is the doorway to the presence of the Lord. Jesus declared that He stands at the door of our heart and knocks. The heart of a man is the seat of all his being. A pure heart, a heart of compassion, a heart that is undivided, a heart that is loyal and faithful, that is what God seeks.
Application:
In the Old Testament, God declared that He would take out the heart of stone and give man a heart of flesh. There are times in a person's life where you heart can get cold. Cold towards God, towards your wife and friends. We all go through 'funks' in life. We all go through season's of withdrawal or isolation, season's of hiding our pain or disappointments. I have learned to keep an 'open' heart with God. When I am mad, I tell Him, and sometimes its not pretty, but it is good to get it out. Sometimes I'm disappointed, I tell I get it out. The Holy Spirit is a great filter for my life. He sifts out the junk in my heart, He convicts me of things that do not please the Lord, and challenges me to address them. Being a leader is not easy. There are times where I feel like I'm alone and carrying the load. Times where I get tied and emotions start to weigh me down. I felt a lot like that yesterday, tied, frustrated, a sense of what am I doing here. This morning though, I feel hope. I know that He is with me. I know He will guide me through the day. I am glad this day to simply ask the Lord to wash my heart. To soften my heart and to draw me close to Him.
Prayer:
Father thank You for a new day. Thank You for forgiving me of my sins and attitudes. I thank You for softening my heart. I ask You to fill me with joy, peace and wisdom today. Help me to lead well and to draw others to You. I pray for discernment to know Your will and to step out in it. Father bless my wife and protect her. I pray for wisdom for her life. Bless every urgency student today and keep them close to You. I pray for urgency and the next season that You would help us navigate through it with great success. Make me sensitive to the needs of parents and students. I pray for a fresh word today, fresh revelation and truth. Be with me today I pray.
Amen.
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Be Who God Called You To Be
1 Samuel 17, Psalm 9; Matthew 2
Scripture:
1 Samuel 17:38 Then Saul dressed David in his own tunic. He put a coat of armor on him and a bronze helmet on his head. 39 David fastened on his sword over the tunic and tried walking around, because he was not used to them.
"I cannot go in these," he said to Saul, "because I am not used to them." So he took them off. 40 Then he took his staff in his hand, chose five smooth stones from the stream, put them in the pouch of his shepherd's bag and, with his sling in his hand, approached the Philistine.
Observation:
David faith in God was incredible. He knew that one man could challenge or mock the Lord God Almighty. He knew the Lord give him the victory. He knew that the Lord's favor was on him from a young age. He knew the promises of God. He had experience in defeating the lion and the bear, now he would defeat Goliath. Saul tries to give David his armor, his weapons, but David used what was known to him, his slingshot.
Application:
Saul wanted David to fight the way he fought, so he gave David his armor. David was not comfortable in this armor, he was not used to it, it was not him. I know a lot of people will try and fit me into their mold, their style or way of doing things. Like David, I must not be sucked into others styles, or ways, I must always me myself to the core. There is nothing wrong with learning from others, but when you try to become them, then you simply are an imitation. David was unique and he trusted what he knew. I must always be the man God has called me to the core, whenever I start to become someone I'm not, I must take a step back and realign my heart. God has made me unique. He has His hand on my life and He is guiding me step by step. God has not forgotten about me. Like David I too must trust in what He is doing. Everyone around David had their own opinion, from the king, his brothers and the army of Israel. Yet David did not allow their opinions to derail him. I believe this came from David's solitude with the Lord. His time in the presence of the Lord prepared him for this moment, and he was strong in the Lord. I pray that my identity, my core, my values and direction would all be shaped by the presence of the Lord in my life.
Prayer:
Father I thank You today for the men of God You have placed in my life. I know they are in my life to teach me and mold me. I pray that I would always discern when I am not walking in Your ways. I do not want to get trapped in the ideas of men, or their opinions of me. I want to be the man You called me to be. I thank You today for Your presence in my life and for the working of Your hand. I pray that You would forgive me of my sins and wash me clean through the precious blood of the Lamb. I thank You today for grace and mercy. I pray today that my heart and attitude would be pleasing to You. Guide me Holy Spirit. I pray for wisdom to lead today, discernment to know Your will, and Your favor to go before. I thank You for calling me to the nations. Here I am send me. Bless my wife, our marriage and home today. I thank You for a miracle and for all You are about to do. I trust in You Lord. You are my hope and refuge. I love You Father. Amen.
Scripture:
1 Samuel 17:38 Then Saul dressed David in his own tunic. He put a coat of armor on him and a bronze helmet on his head. 39 David fastened on his sword over the tunic and tried walking around, because he was not used to them.
"I cannot go in these," he said to Saul, "because I am not used to them." So he took them off. 40 Then he took his staff in his hand, chose five smooth stones from the stream, put them in the pouch of his shepherd's bag and, with his sling in his hand, approached the Philistine.
Observation:
David faith in God was incredible. He knew that one man could challenge or mock the Lord God Almighty. He knew the Lord give him the victory. He knew that the Lord's favor was on him from a young age. He knew the promises of God. He had experience in defeating the lion and the bear, now he would defeat Goliath. Saul tries to give David his armor, his weapons, but David used what was known to him, his slingshot.
Application:
Saul wanted David to fight the way he fought, so he gave David his armor. David was not comfortable in this armor, he was not used to it, it was not him. I know a lot of people will try and fit me into their mold, their style or way of doing things. Like David, I must not be sucked into others styles, or ways, I must always me myself to the core. There is nothing wrong with learning from others, but when you try to become them, then you simply are an imitation. David was unique and he trusted what he knew. I must always be the man God has called me to the core, whenever I start to become someone I'm not, I must take a step back and realign my heart. God has made me unique. He has His hand on my life and He is guiding me step by step. God has not forgotten about me. Like David I too must trust in what He is doing. Everyone around David had their own opinion, from the king, his brothers and the army of Israel. Yet David did not allow their opinions to derail him. I believe this came from David's solitude with the Lord. His time in the presence of the Lord prepared him for this moment, and he was strong in the Lord. I pray that my identity, my core, my values and direction would all be shaped by the presence of the Lord in my life.
Prayer:
Father I thank You today for the men of God You have placed in my life. I know they are in my life to teach me and mold me. I pray that I would always discern when I am not walking in Your ways. I do not want to get trapped in the ideas of men, or their opinions of me. I want to be the man You called me to be. I thank You today for Your presence in my life and for the working of Your hand. I pray that You would forgive me of my sins and wash me clean through the precious blood of the Lamb. I thank You today for grace and mercy. I pray today that my heart and attitude would be pleasing to You. Guide me Holy Spirit. I pray for wisdom to lead today, discernment to know Your will, and Your favor to go before. I thank You for calling me to the nations. Here I am send me. Bless my wife, our marriage and home today. I thank You for a miracle and for all You are about to do. I trust in You Lord. You are my hope and refuge. I love You Father. Amen.
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Obedience and an Armor-bearer
1 Samuel 15, 16; 1 Chronicles 5 ; Matthew 1
Scripture:
1 Samuel 15:10 Then the word of the LORD came to Samuel: 11 "I am grieved that I have made Saul king, because he has turned away from me and has not carried out my instructions." Samuel was troubled, and he cried out to the LORD all that night. 12 Early in the morning Samuel got up and went to meet Saul, but he was told, "Saul has gone to Carmel. There he has set up a monument in his own honor and has turned and gone on down to Gilgal."
Scripture:
1 Samuel 15:10 Then the word of the LORD came to Samuel: 11 "I am grieved that I have made Saul king, because he has turned away from me and has not carried out my instructions." Samuel was troubled, and he cried out to the LORD all that night. 12 Early in the morning Samuel got up and went to meet Saul, but he was told, "Saul has gone to Carmel. There he has set up a monument in his own honor and has turned and gone on down to Gilgal."
1 Samuel 16: 21 David came to Saul and entered his service. Saul liked him very much, and David became one of his armor-bearers
Observation:
Two passages stand out for me today. The first one reminds me that obedience is better than sacrifice. It is not about doing the right thing, it is all about doing the 'God' thing. Obeying God's will is critical and it allows Him to fulfill His will in us. It takes listening to God, hearing His voice and acting on it. The second passage shows me that David served first. He was an armor-bearer to Saul, even though Saul was a feared man, and later down the road, God would give David his own armor-bearers, 'the mighty men of David.' As a man sows, so shall he reap.
Application:
I am reminded today of the importance of obedience. Saul missed his calling as king because of a simple act of disobedience. He allowed pride to grip his heart and the Lord would not allow him to go further. I must guard against pride. I must guard against the sense that it all hangs and revolves around me. God does not need me! What a great reminder for this morning. It is an honor to be chosen by Him and to do His work. God can so easily choose someone else if i disqualify myself through disobedience. I sense a call this morning to holiness. I sense a call to righteousness and obedience. A call to disciplined lifestyle and thinking. As i reflect this morning I feel like God is realigning me to true north. I feel like I've wondered off a little in my own direction. I need more time in His presence and more time in His word. More time studying and meditating on the things of God.
Prayer:
Father thank You for grace today and for realigning me to Your purposes. I ask You to forgive me for doing my own thing and for not listening to Your voice. I thank You for a new day and ask You to anoint me for this day. Give me wisdom to lead, wisdom to make the right decisions and discernment to know Your will. I pray for righteousness to govern my heart and mind. Holy Spirit open my ears so that I may hear, open my eyes so that I may see. Make me a blessing to others today. May I be an armor-bearer to my pastor. May I serve him faithfully and with integrity. Guard my mouth and heart from any gossip, slander and evil talk. Lord bless every urgency student today. May they feel Your love and presence today. Refresh every leader and bless them for their faithfulness. I pray for a good day today and I pray that I would bring honor to Your name.
Amen.
Monday, April 13, 2009
Test Yourself
1 Samuel 14; 1 Chronicles 4; 2 Corinthians 13
Scripture:
2 Corinthians 13: 5Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you—unless, of course, you fail the test?
Observation:
Paul challenges us to elevate our faith and identify the weakness that are holding us back. It is so easy to spot the weaknesses in others. We can counsel them, read them scripture, but if we don't do the same for our lives, then we end up being hypocritical. Paul literally says stop and test yourself. What great advise!
Application:
I have been running at a fast pace the last few weeks and I have not had the time to stop and evaluate my life. I feel like my time with the Lord has be distant in the midst of the many things I'm juggling. My journal time has been good praise God, but my relationship with God is more than just a journal. This week is going to be busy, but I must honor my day off. I must take time to reflect and rest. I must get my rocks in place and discipline myself. I do not want others to live at this pace, and so I must slow down and be a role model. I pray that this day Lord, You would speak to me. I pray for a miracle today, you know my situation. I know You are able to provide and make a way out. I give it to You.
Prayer:
Father forgive me for stressing and for the fear that gripped me. I pray today for favor, provision and blessing. I know that I am on the right track and that set backs come. I know that You have a plan and a way out. I pray for restoration today, elevation and multiplication as You promised. Go before me today. Lead me. Forgive me of my sins and wash me clean. Align my attitude to that of Yours. I ask You to give me wisdom in this season. I thank You for all You are about to do in my life. I thank You for breakthrough. Be with my wife and refresh her. Draw her close to You. Thank You for her.
Amen.
Scripture:
2 Corinthians 13: 5Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you—unless, of course, you fail the test?
Observation:
Paul challenges us to elevate our faith and identify the weakness that are holding us back. It is so easy to spot the weaknesses in others. We can counsel them, read them scripture, but if we don't do the same for our lives, then we end up being hypocritical. Paul literally says stop and test yourself. What great advise!
Application:
I have been running at a fast pace the last few weeks and I have not had the time to stop and evaluate my life. I feel like my time with the Lord has be distant in the midst of the many things I'm juggling. My journal time has been good praise God, but my relationship with God is more than just a journal. This week is going to be busy, but I must honor my day off. I must take time to reflect and rest. I must get my rocks in place and discipline myself. I do not want others to live at this pace, and so I must slow down and be a role model. I pray that this day Lord, You would speak to me. I pray for a miracle today, you know my situation. I know You are able to provide and make a way out. I give it to You.
Prayer:
Father forgive me for stressing and for the fear that gripped me. I pray today for favor, provision and blessing. I know that I am on the right track and that set backs come. I know that You have a plan and a way out. I pray for restoration today, elevation and multiplication as You promised. Go before me today. Lead me. Forgive me of my sins and wash me clean. Align my attitude to that of Yours. I ask You to give me wisdom in this season. I thank You for all You are about to do in my life. I thank You for breakthrough. Be with my wife and refresh her. Draw her close to You. Thank You for her.
Amen.
Friday, April 10, 2009
Shaking off man's opinion
1 Samuel 8,9,10; 2 Corinthians 10
Scripture:
2 Corinthians 10:17But, "Let him who boasts boast in the Lord." 18For it is not the one who commends himself who is approved, but the one whom the Lord commends.
Observation:
Paul reminds me this morning that all the boasting is to be directed to the Lord. I am reminded this morning of one of the greatest sayings of Pastor Wayne Cordero, "In everything you do, do it all for An Audience of One!" It is sad to say, but I hear a lot of boasting amongst leaders in the church about their success and little about the goodness of God. At times I even see myself being sucked in. Paul makes it clear, let your boasting be all about God and not yourself. Jesus declares that the applause of man is our reward if that is what we seek, and that there will be no reward in heaven. I want my reward to be in heaven, I want my motive, drive, passion to be all about Him and not me.
Application:
For the past few months this has bugged me. I know that the Lord seeks humility in His leaders. He seeks those who are quick to listen and slow to speak. I find myself in an intersting place, a place of almost seperation from the crowd, a place of solitude and reflection. I have seen pride sneaking up on me, a desire to prove myself to my peers, a need to be recognized, but at the same time a spirit of resistance to these is rising up within me. God did not call me for the praises of man, for their approval rating, no, He called me to serve Him, to fulfill the mission He called me to. I can sense the Holy Spirit shifting me back, back to the place of silence, of listening, of obedience, back to the place where it is Him and me. Today I am reminded that Jesus died on the cross for my sins., It's Good Friday. Jesus went through this day alone. His friends betrayed Him. The crowd that loved Him dispised Him. All the applause was gone and now tears. Yet His focus was on His Father. He died on the cross to please His Father. It was all about Him. I am see a time coming were the parade will be over, where the anointing will come to those of character, integrity, humility, compassion. We live in a time where God is shaking nations. The power of God will no longer be for entertainment, for fancination, or personal upliftment. The time of order is coming. Yes grace, yes forgiveness, but more than that, a time of true devotion. Lord start with me!
Prayer:
Father forgive me for seeking the approval of man. I am becuase of You. My life is Yours. Lead me Father, guide me, convict me of my attitudes and ways. Free me from the opinions of man, draw me back to the heart of God. I pray for vYour anointing and favor to rest on me. I know it is not the time yet, but it will be soon. I pray that my heart will be right. Father I thank You today for Jesus. Jesus I love You. I can never thank You enough for what You have done for me. I pray today that I would live for You. Jesus work in my life. Holy Spirit I ask You to anoint me to preach the best message ever, because tonight it truly is about the best message ever, Jesus. Father I pray for protection over my wife and I. I pray for discernment, wisdom, favor and blessing. May we become a blessing to the nations. Renew my mind today and lead me. I thank You for all You are doing and will do this day. I love You Lord.
Amen.
Scripture:
2 Corinthians 10:17But, "Let him who boasts boast in the Lord." 18For it is not the one who commends himself who is approved, but the one whom the Lord commends.
Observation:
Paul reminds me this morning that all the boasting is to be directed to the Lord. I am reminded this morning of one of the greatest sayings of Pastor Wayne Cordero, "In everything you do, do it all for An Audience of One!" It is sad to say, but I hear a lot of boasting amongst leaders in the church about their success and little about the goodness of God. At times I even see myself being sucked in. Paul makes it clear, let your boasting be all about God and not yourself. Jesus declares that the applause of man is our reward if that is what we seek, and that there will be no reward in heaven. I want my reward to be in heaven, I want my motive, drive, passion to be all about Him and not me.
Application:
For the past few months this has bugged me. I know that the Lord seeks humility in His leaders. He seeks those who are quick to listen and slow to speak. I find myself in an intersting place, a place of almost seperation from the crowd, a place of solitude and reflection. I have seen pride sneaking up on me, a desire to prove myself to my peers, a need to be recognized, but at the same time a spirit of resistance to these is rising up within me. God did not call me for the praises of man, for their approval rating, no, He called me to serve Him, to fulfill the mission He called me to. I can sense the Holy Spirit shifting me back, back to the place of silence, of listening, of obedience, back to the place where it is Him and me. Today I am reminded that Jesus died on the cross for my sins., It's Good Friday. Jesus went through this day alone. His friends betrayed Him. The crowd that loved Him dispised Him. All the applause was gone and now tears. Yet His focus was on His Father. He died on the cross to please His Father. It was all about Him. I am see a time coming were the parade will be over, where the anointing will come to those of character, integrity, humility, compassion. We live in a time where God is shaking nations. The power of God will no longer be for entertainment, for fancination, or personal upliftment. The time of order is coming. Yes grace, yes forgiveness, but more than that, a time of true devotion. Lord start with me!
Prayer:
Father forgive me for seeking the approval of man. I am becuase of You. My life is Yours. Lead me Father, guide me, convict me of my attitudes and ways. Free me from the opinions of man, draw me back to the heart of God. I pray for vYour anointing and favor to rest on me. I know it is not the time yet, but it will be soon. I pray that my heart will be right. Father I thank You today for Jesus. Jesus I love You. I can never thank You enough for what You have done for me. I pray today that I would live for You. Jesus work in my life. Holy Spirit I ask You to anoint me to preach the best message ever, because tonight it truly is about the best message ever, Jesus. Father I pray for protection over my wife and I. I pray for discernment, wisdom, favor and blessing. May we become a blessing to the nations. Renew my mind today and lead me. I thank You for all You are doing and will do this day. I love You Lord.
Amen.
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Attitude and Joy
1 Samuel 6,7; Psalm 72; 2 Corinthians 9
Scripture:
2 Corinthians 9:7Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.
Observation:
Serving God should always be a joy, no matter what. Whether it is in giving of finances, time, energy or act of kindness, we can never out give the Lord. God gave His on and only son for me. He gave it all for my salvation. As Easter approaches, I am reminded of the incredible suffering Jesus Christ willingly went through for my salvation. He endured the taunting, the beating, the humiliation, the betrayal and finally the cross, and He did it all for me.
Application:
There is not much I can do to even come close to what He gave me. Someone once told me that the greatest gift I can give God is my life. To live for Him, to serve Him, to obey Him. This passage in 2 Corinthians 9, reminds me to live with an attitude of gratitude. Whether giving of my tithe and offering, to serving the extra mile, to loving the unlovely, to helping my bothers and sisters. I am to go all of these wholeheartedly unto the Lord, that's when its blesses Him. I want to b a cheerful giver, not a stingy person. I pray this day I will serve with a godly attitude and point people to Jesus.
Prayer:
Father thank You for sending Jesus to die for me. I thank You for this weekend and the reminder of all You did for a sinner like me. I thank You Jesus for the attitude You showed in serving me on the cross. You were beaten, bruised, mocked and humiliated for me. I ask You to search my heart Holy Spirit and convict me of attitudes that do not please You. I pray for the spirit of Christ to grow in me. I pray for opportunity to serve others this day and to point them to Christ. Father bless me and make me a blessing to all. I pray for favor today, wisdom, discernment and success. I thank You for promotion, elevation and restoration. I pray for protection for my wife, myself and our home. Bless my team today and refresh them. Unite us and keep us from the deceptions of the enemy. I pray for every volunteer leader and ask You to bless them and refresh them. Be with our students today and keep them from the snares of the enemy. I pray Your angels around them and a conviction that draws them closer to You. Bless my pastors today and our Jubilee staff. Bless our church members and lead them in these tough economic times. Bring hope to the hopeless. I pray all these in the Name Above All Names, Jesus!
Amen.
Scripture:
2 Corinthians 9:7Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.
Observation:
Serving God should always be a joy, no matter what. Whether it is in giving of finances, time, energy or act of kindness, we can never out give the Lord. God gave His on and only son for me. He gave it all for my salvation. As Easter approaches, I am reminded of the incredible suffering Jesus Christ willingly went through for my salvation. He endured the taunting, the beating, the humiliation, the betrayal and finally the cross, and He did it all for me.
Application:
There is not much I can do to even come close to what He gave me. Someone once told me that the greatest gift I can give God is my life. To live for Him, to serve Him, to obey Him. This passage in 2 Corinthians 9, reminds me to live with an attitude of gratitude. Whether giving of my tithe and offering, to serving the extra mile, to loving the unlovely, to helping my bothers and sisters. I am to go all of these wholeheartedly unto the Lord, that's when its blesses Him. I want to b a cheerful giver, not a stingy person. I pray this day I will serve with a godly attitude and point people to Jesus.
Prayer:
Father thank You for sending Jesus to die for me. I thank You for this weekend and the reminder of all You did for a sinner like me. I thank You Jesus for the attitude You showed in serving me on the cross. You were beaten, bruised, mocked and humiliated for me. I ask You to search my heart Holy Spirit and convict me of attitudes that do not please You. I pray for the spirit of Christ to grow in me. I pray for opportunity to serve others this day and to point them to Christ. Father bless me and make me a blessing to all. I pray for favor today, wisdom, discernment and success. I thank You for promotion, elevation and restoration. I pray for protection for my wife, myself and our home. Bless my team today and refresh them. Unite us and keep us from the deceptions of the enemy. I pray for every volunteer leader and ask You to bless them and refresh them. Be with our students today and keep them from the snares of the enemy. I pray Your angels around them and a conviction that draws them closer to You. Bless my pastors today and our Jubilee staff. Bless our church members and lead them in these tough economic times. Bring hope to the hopeless. I pray all these in the Name Above All Names, Jesus!
Amen.
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Repentance and Change
1 Samuel 1,2; Psalm 66; 2 Corinthians 7
Scripture:
2 Corinthians 7: 10Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death. 11See what this godly sorrow has produced in you: what earnestness, what eagerness to clear yourselves, what indignation, what alarm, what longing, what concern, what readiness to see justice done. At every point you have proved yourselves to be innocent in this matter.
Observation:
Paul commends the church of Corinth on their attitude and actions. Their lifestyles are matching up to true repentance and a desire for holiness. Godly sorrow has caused them to evaluate their lives and caused them to come to a place of repentance. This repentance produced righteousness in them and a fresh hunger for the things of God. How we need this kind of hunger in the church.
Application:
Repentance can become so ritualistic. We can go through the motions of repentance without any genuine change. Repentance should bring us closer to God and stir our hearts to righteousness. AS we approach Easter, I am reminded of the incredible price Jesus paid for my forgiveness of sin. He gladly laid His life down for me, yet I struggle so often to lay mine down for Him. Paul had it right in Galatians 2:20, where he talks about crucifying my flesh. Sometimes it is so hard to crucify or deny my flesh. The words of Paul encourage me today, the refocus me to the truth of sorrow and a desire to please God. He gave so much for me, He bankrupted heaven for my soul. This is a new day, I start it off by asking God to wash my soul. I ask Him to forgive me of my sins and I choose to live for Him. I choose to please Him, I choose His way and His will today.
Prayer:
Father God, I come before You today and ask You to forgive me of my sins. Wash me clean right now through the precious gift of Christ. I pray that my spirit would be strong today and my mind renewed. Guide me Holy Spirit in the steps the Father has laid out for me. Keep me from temptations and deliver me from evil. Give me wisdom, discernment and peace. Fill me with patience, love and joy. I pray for strength today to do all You have called me to. I ask for favor today, for restoration, elevation and multiplication. Bless my marriage, my home and my finances. Everything I have comes from You and I thank You for that.
Amen.
Scripture:
2 Corinthians 7: 10Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death. 11See what this godly sorrow has produced in you: what earnestness, what eagerness to clear yourselves, what indignation, what alarm, what longing, what concern, what readiness to see justice done. At every point you have proved yourselves to be innocent in this matter.
Observation:
Paul commends the church of Corinth on their attitude and actions. Their lifestyles are matching up to true repentance and a desire for holiness. Godly sorrow has caused them to evaluate their lives and caused them to come to a place of repentance. This repentance produced righteousness in them and a fresh hunger for the things of God. How we need this kind of hunger in the church.
Application:
Repentance can become so ritualistic. We can go through the motions of repentance without any genuine change. Repentance should bring us closer to God and stir our hearts to righteousness. AS we approach Easter, I am reminded of the incredible price Jesus paid for my forgiveness of sin. He gladly laid His life down for me, yet I struggle so often to lay mine down for Him. Paul had it right in Galatians 2:20, where he talks about crucifying my flesh. Sometimes it is so hard to crucify or deny my flesh. The words of Paul encourage me today, the refocus me to the truth of sorrow and a desire to please God. He gave so much for me, He bankrupted heaven for my soul. This is a new day, I start it off by asking God to wash my soul. I ask Him to forgive me of my sins and I choose to live for Him. I choose to please Him, I choose His way and His will today.
Prayer:
Father God, I come before You today and ask You to forgive me of my sins. Wash me clean right now through the precious gift of Christ. I pray that my spirit would be strong today and my mind renewed. Guide me Holy Spirit in the steps the Father has laid out for me. Keep me from temptations and deliver me from evil. Give me wisdom, discernment and peace. Fill me with patience, love and joy. I pray for strength today to do all You have called me to. I ask for favor today, for restoration, elevation and multiplication. Bless my marriage, my home and my finances. Everything I have comes from You and I thank You for that.
Amen.
Friday, April 3, 2009
Solitude and the Machine
Judges 17, 18; Psalm 89; 2 Corinthians 3
Scripture:
Psalm 89:17 for You are their glory and strength; and by your favor You exalt our horn.
Observation:
David knew that the favor of God promoted a man and that a man had to give the Lord all the glory and honor. Pride was a down fall and David experienced this in his life. Pride led him down a road where the presence of God and the favor seemed non-existent in his life.
Application:
In the church world there seems to be a lot of pride, ego and fame. Big tv evangelist's, loads of bling, big houses and toys, books and cd's, and the hype of man. The better the communicator, the more edgy or the more radical, the better. I am reminded this morning of Mother Teresa and the book a simple Path. I put it down for over a year now, because the conviction of the Holy Spirit on prayer was too deep for me to move forward. I feel ready to move on, to read the next section. I read to refocus more to the side of humility and solitude with the Lord. I sense God is working in me, preparing me and He is stripping me away from the attention of the crowd and more to the place of silence and listening to Him. Maybe its because I'm tied of what I am becoming. Maybe it's because I miss Him or maybe it's because I got sucked into the business of the machine called church. A few minutes ago I sat outside and prayed in tongues. How refreshing that was! How great it was to sit and meditate on my Savior and to say thank You. I know that God's hand is on my life. I know that God has anointed me and His favor is opening doors for me. I feel a transition coming, a shift in the spirit, a new door opening, a fresh word and encounter. I am ready, I am waiting, I am listening.
Prayer:
Father thank You for Your favor on my life. Thank You for calling me and for choosing me. I feel a lot like David in the sense that man does not see my calling. I'm not flashy, I'm not tall, I'm not fancy, I'm just simple me. I man that loves You and wants his life to please You. I live for You, I love You. Create in me a clean heart, remove the pollution of the church machine and restore a right spirit within me. Fill me with a love for Your people and a anointing to do Your work. Guide my steps today and lead me Holy Spirit. I thank You for the honor of preaching on Jesus today. I pray that You would make the message relevant and powerful. Give me Your words Lord. Bless my wife today and refresh her. Bless our home, our health and finances. Thank You Lord for always being there for me.
Amen.
Scripture:
Psalm 89:17 for You are their glory and strength; and by your favor You exalt our horn.
Observation:
David knew that the favor of God promoted a man and that a man had to give the Lord all the glory and honor. Pride was a down fall and David experienced this in his life. Pride led him down a road where the presence of God and the favor seemed non-existent in his life.
Application:
In the church world there seems to be a lot of pride, ego and fame. Big tv evangelist's, loads of bling, big houses and toys, books and cd's, and the hype of man. The better the communicator, the more edgy or the more radical, the better. I am reminded this morning of Mother Teresa and the book a simple Path. I put it down for over a year now, because the conviction of the Holy Spirit on prayer was too deep for me to move forward. I feel ready to move on, to read the next section. I read to refocus more to the side of humility and solitude with the Lord. I sense God is working in me, preparing me and He is stripping me away from the attention of the crowd and more to the place of silence and listening to Him. Maybe its because I'm tied of what I am becoming. Maybe it's because I miss Him or maybe it's because I got sucked into the business of the machine called church. A few minutes ago I sat outside and prayed in tongues. How refreshing that was! How great it was to sit and meditate on my Savior and to say thank You. I know that God's hand is on my life. I know that God has anointed me and His favor is opening doors for me. I feel a transition coming, a shift in the spirit, a new door opening, a fresh word and encounter. I am ready, I am waiting, I am listening.
Prayer:
Father thank You for Your favor on my life. Thank You for calling me and for choosing me. I feel a lot like David in the sense that man does not see my calling. I'm not flashy, I'm not tall, I'm not fancy, I'm just simple me. I man that loves You and wants his life to please You. I live for You, I love You. Create in me a clean heart, remove the pollution of the church machine and restore a right spirit within me. Fill me with a love for Your people and a anointing to do Your work. Guide my steps today and lead me Holy Spirit. I thank You for the honor of preaching on Jesus today. I pray that You would make the message relevant and powerful. Give me Your words Lord. Bless my wife today and refresh her. Bless our home, our health and finances. Thank You Lord for always being there for me.
Amen.
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