Author: Bruce

I have been in Japan as a missionary since 1995. I'm currently going to a church called Crossroad Nishinomiya, an international church in Nishinomiya, a city right between Kobe and Osaka. Check out their website: www.crossroad-web.com. #crossroadnishinomiya

１９９５年に宣教師として日本に来ました。　今、西宮クロスロード教会という国際の教会に行っています。どうぞ、そのホームページを見てください：　www.crossroad-web.com. #西宮クロスロード教会

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Acts Devotionals

I have a hope

Acts

I have a hope in God, which these men themselves also accept, that there will be a resurrection, both of the righteous and the unrighteous. (Acts 24:15)

“I have a hope.”

Those words resonated with me.

Why did Paul have a hope.

He knew there was a God who loved him. A God who had sent his Son to die for Paul’s sin. And a God who had raised his Son back to life.

And because of that, he knew his problems in life would not last forever.

More, he knew that the day will come when all evil will be judged.

But because he knew God’s love in his life, he didn’t live in fear of God’s judgment like Felix had. (25)

Rather, each day he lived in hope, seeking to please his God and reaching out to a world that desperately needs Jesus. (16)

We may live in dark times. But can you say with Paul, “I have a hope”?

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Acts Devotionals

Living with a good conscience before God

Acts

Brothers, I have lived my life before God in all good conscience to this day. (Acts 23:1)

Those are pretty incredible words when you think about it.

How many of us can say the same?

This is not to say that Paul thought he was perfect by any means.

In fact, he told the Corinthians,

For I am not conscious of anything against myself, but I am not justified by this. It is the Lord who judges me.

So don’t judge anything prematurely, before the Lord comes, who will both bring to light what is hidden in darkness and reveal the intentions of the hearts.

And then praise will come to each one from God. (I Corinthians 4:4-5)

So it is possible to think you’re doing the right thing for the right reasons and yet not have a right heart before God.

Still, as much as possible, we are to keep a clean conscience before God, not doing anything to stain it.

To willfully break conscience is sin.

So let us pray as David did,

Who perceives his unintentional sins?

Cleanse me from my hidden faults.
Moreover, keep your servant from willful sins;
do not let them rule me.

Then I will be blameless
and cleansed from blatant rebellion.

May the words of my mouth
and the meditation of my heart
be acceptable to you,
Lord, my rock and my Redeemer. (Psalm 19:12-14)

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Acts Devotionals

A witness

Acts

And he said, ‘The God of our ancestors has appointed you to know his will, to see the Righteous One, and to hear the words from his mouth, since you will be a witness for him to all people of what you have seen and heard.’ (Acts 22:14-15)

You did not choose me, but I chose you. I appointed you to go and produce fruit and that your fruit should remain…

When the Counselor comes, the one I will send to you from the Father—the Spirit of truth who proceeds from the Father—he will testify about me.

You also will testify, because you have been with me from the beginning. (John 15:16, 26-27)

Before time began, God chose us to be his children and appointed us to know his will. And because of that, we heard his words of life and saw his work in our lives.  

But now, God doesn’t call us to simply revel in his love. Rather, he has appointed us to bear fruit. He has appointed us to be his witnesses, bringing people life by touching them with the gospel we ourselves have received.

But what do witnesses do?

Preach sermons?

No.

Teach others theology?

No.

They simply tell others what they have seen and heard.

What things have you seen God do in your life? What things have you learned from his Word? How have they touched you? How have they changed you?

These are the things that we are to share.

And if we do, we will bear fruit.

So take the time to think about your testimony. What great things has God done in your life? What truths have you received that changed your life?

Not all of us are called to be pastors or teachers.

But all of us have been appointed to be Jesus’ witnesses.

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Acts Devotionals

Torn away

Acts

After we tore ourselves away from them, we set sail…and arrived at Tyre…We sought out the disciples… (Acts 21:1, 3-4)

How much do we value Christian fellowship?

For Paul and his companions, they had to tear themselves away from the Ephesian Christians, and when they when arrived at Tyre, the very first thing they did was seek out the Christians there.

Here in Japan, with states of emergencies due to Corona repeatedly being called on and off, it can be easy for us to lose sight of the value of Christian fellowship. To lose sight of our need for it. After all, we still have our online services.

How about you? Are you totally fine with not meeting other Christians regularly? Or do you have to be torn away from them?

And even when we can’t meet physically with each other, do you actively seek out Christian fellowship any way you can?

Do you call people? Send them text messages? Pray with them?

I’ve said this before, and I’ll say it again. We need each other.

So let us remember the words of Paul, especially in these times.

About brotherly love: You don’t need me to write you because you yourselves are taught by God to love one another.

In fact, you are doing this toward all the brothers and sisters…

But we encourage you, brothers and sisters, to do this even more… (1 Thessalonians 4:9-10)

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Acts Devotionals

Finishing the course and ministry we have received from Jesus

Acts

But I consider my life of no value to myself; my purpose is to finish my course and the ministry I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of God’s grace. (Acts 20:24)

I think it’s easy to look at these words, and say they’re only for the elite Christians like Paul.

But the truth is all of us have received a course, all of us have received a ministry from the Lord.

Namely, all of us are called to testify to the people around us about the gospel of God’s grace, the message of repentance and faith in our Lord (21).

Of course, no course or ministry looks exactly alike. Not all of us are called to travel from place to place to share the gospel with people we don’t know.

But all of us are called to share the gospel of grace we have received with those around us. To share with others what Jesus has done for us so that they too might share the joy we ourselves have. (1 John 1:3-4)

Who has God put in your life?

At the end our lives, may we all be able to say as Paul did,

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.

There is reserved for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give me on that day, and not only to me, but to all those who have loved his appearing. (2 Timothy 4:7-8)

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Acts Devotionals Ephesians Devotionals

Amazing

Ephesians

For he chose us in him, before the foundation of the world, to be holy and blameless in love before him.

He predestined us to be adopted as sons through Jesus Christ for himself, according to the good pleasure of his will, to the praise of his glorious grace that he lavished on us in the Beloved One. (Ephesians 1:4-6)

From one man he has made every nationality to live over the whole earth and has determined their appointed times and the boundaries of where they live.

He did this so that they might seek God, and perhaps they might reach out and find him, though he is not far from each one of us. (Acts 17:26-27)

The love and grace of God towards us is truly amazing to me.

That before the foundation of the world he would choose us. That he would determine when we were born, where we born, and the circumstances of our birth.

He did it so that we would reach out and find him. And the thing is, when we did, we found out that he had never been far from us in the first place.

Not only that, this God who would not deign to live in temples made by human hands chooses to dwell in us.

We ourselves become his temple. (Acts 17:24, John 14:23, 2 Corinthians 6:16)

When I think of it all, the only word that comes to mind is…amazing.

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Acts Devotionals

The Knower of hearts

Acts

And God, who knows the heart, bore witness to them by giving them the Holy Spirit, just as he also did to us.

He made no distinction between us and them, cleansing their hearts by faith. (Acts 15:8-9)

“God, who knows the heart.” Literally in the Greek, it’s “God, the Knower of hearts,” or “God, the Heart-knower.”

Somehow, that title resonates with me. 

The Knower of hearts sees you and me, and bore witness to our faith by giving us his Holy Spirit.

He makes no distinction between me and any other Christian. We are all accepted by him, by grace, through faith in Jesus. And in Jesus, we are all clean before him. 

Sometimes people will look down on us because we don’t “measure up” as Christians. That’s what some of the Jewish Christians were doing with the Gentile Christians.

But it doesn’t matter what others say. The Knower of hearts has already accepted us. 

Sometimes we even doubt ourselves. We condemn ourselves as “not good enough.”

But the when our hearts condemn us, the Knower of hearts whispers his love and acceptance to us. For he is greater than our hearts. (1 John 3:19-20)

Knower of hearts. Thank you that you love me. Thank you that before the creation of this world, you chose me. Let those truths sink deeply into my heart. In Jesus’ name, amen. 

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Acts Devotionals

No need for Christian fellowship?

Acts

And [Paul and Barnabas] spent a considerable time with the disciples. (Acts 14:28)

Paul and Barnabas were very strong Christians. Not only that, they were very active in the Lord’s work. And yet, it’s very clear they considered Christian fellowship as vital.

It would have been so easy for them to say, “Jesus and I are good. I don’t need other Christians.” Or, “I’m doing important work for God. I don’t have time for Christian fellowship.” 

But they didn’t do that. Rather, they spent considerable time with the Christians in their home church. 

Why? Probably one reason was that they could strengthen and encourage them. But another reason was probably so that they themselves could be refreshed. 

Right now, there are many of us who can’t meet in person at church. But do we put a priority on Christian fellowship?

We need each other. And even in this time of pandemic, we can still do things like sending email, doing video chats, or just do an old-fashioned phone call. 

Who can you touch today? 

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Acts Devotionals

Filled with joy

Acts

And the disciples were filled with joy and the Holy Spirit. (Acts 13:52)

No matter how many times I remind myself, I often forget that the word “disciples” in the book of Acts is primarily referring to the “ordinary” Christian.

So when Luke talks about the disciples being filled with joy, Luke’s not talking about Paul and Barnabas. He’s talking about the brand new Christians that they had just shared the gospel with.

Why were they filled with joy? After all, their leaders had just been persecuted and kicked out of the city.

I think they were filled with joy for two reasons. 

First, they were rejoicing in their salvation.

For years, the Gentiles had been told they were outsiders. That they had to become Jews in order to be accepted by God.

But now they were told that they too were accepted by God through faith in Christ.

Not only that, they found out that before time began, they were loved and chosen by God. (Acts 13:48, Ephesians 1:4-6)

But I do think there was a second reason.

They saw how their leaders were treated and the trials they faced. And they saw their leaders still filled with God’s joy. 

How we respond to trials in our life will affect other people. 

If in the midst of our trials, we are rooted in the truth that God loves us and has chosen us, we will keep our joy. And people will notice. 

Our children will notice. Our friends will notice. Our coworkers will notice. 

For those who are Christians, they will take heart by looking at us. And for those who don’t know Jesus, it will start making them wonder what we have that gives us the ability to rejoice.

There are a lot of people in this world who are struggling to find joy. If they can’t see it in us, where will they find it? 

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Acts Devotionals

What God has made clean

Children of God

What God has made clean, do not call impure. (Acts 10:15)

In this passage, Jesus is of course trying to change Peter’s view of Gentiles. Up until that time, the Gentiles were considered, “unclean,” and would remain so unless they converted to Judaism.

But Jesus told Peter, “You are not to view those I have made clean, even Gentiles, as impure.”

It strikes me though, that this is a message for a lot of Christians, not just in terms of how they view other Christians, but themselves. 

Often times, because of our own sins, we feel dirty, unworthy of God’s love. 

But if you have put your faith in Jesus, he has already made you clean. (John 15:3)

So let us not beat ourselves up when we see our own failures.

Rather, let us always remember, we have already been made clean by the blood of Jesus.

We have already been accepted.

And if we confess our sins, Jesus is more than glad to forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. (1 John 1:9)

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Acts Devotionals

The “normal Christian” life

Acts

You did not choose me, but I chose you. I appointed you to go and produce fruit and that your fruit should remain… (John 15:16)

But the Lord said to him, “Go…” (Acts 9:15)

In this passage, we see the lives of two ordinary disciples, Ananias and Tabitha.

As I’ve mentioned before, “disciples” and “Christians” are essentially the same thing. So I could say that we are looking at the lives of two ordinary Christians. 

And just as Jesus chose his 12 apostles and appointed them to go and bear fruit, so he chose Ananias and Tabitha to do the same. 

They were not to simply stay at home worshiping God every day. They were to go out into the world and bear fruit, fruit that would remain. 

And that’s what they did. 

Ananias went and touched a man named Saul. And through Saul, the Roman Empire was turned upside down for Christ. 

For Tabitha, she touched life after life, making a difference in the people around her. 

Ananias and Tabitha were not “super Christians.”

Aside from Paul’s testimony, we no longer hear Ananias’ name and Tabitha’s name never comes up again in the Bible. But they went out into the world, touching people, bearing fruit that lasted.

That’s the life each and every one of us are called to as Christians. To go. And bear fruit. 

That’s the “normal Christian” life. 

Is that the life you’re living? 

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Acts Devotionals

Spreading joy

Acts

Saul, however, was ravaging the church. He would enter house after house, drag off men and women, and put them in prison.

So those who were scattered went on their way preaching the word…

So there was great joy in that city. (Acts 8:3-4, 8)

There is precious little joy in the world today. Everywhere we look, we see news of Covid-19, wars, and natural disasters. And all this has affected Christians as well. 

But let us follow the example of these Christians in the book of Acts. 

There is only one thing that can bring true joy into this world: the gospel of Jesus Christ.

So let us be people who spread joy to those around us, sharing with them the good news of God’s Son. 

That good news gave us life.

Let’s give that life to those around us.

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Acts Devotionals

Seeing things as they really are

Acts

Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, gazed into heaven. He saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. (Acts 7:55)

Father, in this crazy world, I need to be filled with your Spirit. It is so easy to look at this world and think that things are out of control. That you have lost control. 

But Stephen saw things as they really are. He saw you sitting on your throne, Father. And he saw you Jesus, standing by his side. 

And because of that, despite his circumstances, despite how people treated him, Stephen was filled with joy, mercy, and grace. 

So Holy Spirit, dwell in me. Fill me. Lead me. Guide me. Help me see things as they really are. 

And as I do, fill me with the joy, mercy, and grace that this world so desperately needs. 

In Jesus’ name, amen.  

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Acts Devotionals

Christians? Disciples?

Acts

For a lot of Christians, when they hear the word “disciple”, they get the image of a “special Christian.”

Someone who is not a mere believer in Christ, but a Christian who is at a higher level.

It struck me today, though, as I read this chapter that the word “disciple” in Acts is not referring to the 12 disciples of Jesus.

The author Luke uses the word “apostles” to describe them. (See verse 2. Also see chapter 9 verses 26-27). 

On the other hand, he uses the word “disciple” to refer to all the Christians. Every single time you see that word, it’s referring to Christians both men and women (Acts 9:10, 36). 

In fact, when the word “Christian” was first invented, it was applied to…disciples. (Acts 11:26)

So every time you see “disciple” in Acts, don’t think, “12 disciples” or “special Christian.” 

Think, “Christian.”

But more importantly, start thinking of yourself as a disciple.

You don’t have to reach a certain level of Christian maturity to be considered a disciple. The moment you put your faith in Christ, you start your life as a disciple. 

And as his disciples, let us learn to remain in Jesus.

To live each day receiving of his love and his power.

To live each day in trusting, dependent, loving obedience.

To live each day following his leading.

And in doing these things, we will bear fruit for God, touching this world for him. (John 15:1-8)

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Acts Devotionals

When the world is not fair

Acts

This world is not fair.

And sometimes, as Christians, we are criticized and persecuted for our beliefs. 

That is a fact of life. 

The question is what do we do about it. 

A very common response is to get angry. These days, that often turns into complaining on social media.

I admit: I myself have done that.

But when the apostles were treated unfairly, persecuted because others were jealous of their popularity, abused for doing what was right, what was their response?

They rejoiced, keeping their focus on what is important: taking the gospel out to a dying world. 

When this world sees our response to how they treat us, what do they see? 

Angry complaints? 

A grim determination to endure?

Or do they see people characterized by the joy and the love of Christ?

Which response is most likely to cause Jesus’ light to shine in this darkened world? 

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Acts Devotionals

Because you are with me

Acts

I saw the Lord ever before me;
because he is at my right hand,
I will not be shaken. 

Therefore my heart is glad
and my tongue rejoices.

Moreover, my flesh will rest in hope,
because you will not abandon me in Hades
or allow your holy one to see decay. 

You have revealed the paths of life to me;
you will fill me with gladness
in your presence. (Acts 2:25-28)

Father, let me ever see you before me. 

It can be so easy to lose sight of you. To live in worry. To live in fear. To live in anger. 

But when I keep you in my sight, I can never be shaken. I can’t be shaken because I remember the hope I have in you. I remember the joy of just being in your presence. 

You’ve revealed the paths of life to me. So walk with me as I go down those paths. 

It is enough for me to know that you are with me. 

In Jesus’ name, amen. 

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Acts Devotionals

What I need

Acts

He said to them, “It is not for you to know times or periods that the Father has set by his own authority.

But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come on you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” (Acts 1:7-8)

Lord, I don’t need to know when you will return. For that matter, I don’t need to know when this Covid crisis will end. I don’t need to know when the Taliban will fall. 

These things are all set by your own authority. 

What I do need, Lord, is your Holy Spirit in me. I need you to fill me with your power so that I can touch the people around me who are hurting and need you. 

So Holy Spirit, fill me. Give me your power. Lead me. And show me what I can do to touch the people I love for you. 

In Jesus’ name, amen. 

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Luke Devotionals

But we were hoping…

Luke

But we were hoping that he was the one who was about to redeem Israel. (Luke 24:21)

Recently, my pastor gave a message on hope. 

And he asked, “Are we hoping for something? Are we hoping for the end of Corona? Are we hoping life can return to normal?

“Or are we putting our hope in Someone? Are we putting our hope in Jesus?”

How often is Jesus standing in our midst, and yet our hearts are still troubled, with doubts rising in our hearts?

Would Jesus say to us, “How foolish you are and slow to believe”?

Lord, you are the one who has conquered death. So I choose to put my hope in you. 

I don’t know how long Corona will last. I don’t know when things when will return to normal. But I choose to put my eyes on you. You are my hope.

And because of that, like the disciples, I rejoice. In your name I pray. Amen.

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Luke Devotionals

Our need for prayer

Luke

I couldn’t help but see the connections in Jesus’ words in chapter 21 and what happened in chapter 22.

Jesus told his disciples,

Be on your guard, so that your minds are not dulled from carousing, drunkenness, and worries of life, or that day will come on you unexpectedly like a trap.

For it will come on all who live on the face of the whole earth.

But be alert at all times, praying that you may have strength to escape all these things that are going to take place and to stand before the Son of Man. (Luke 21:34-36)

Jesus himself kept his own words. In the midst of much anguish and distress, he prayed to his Father, and his Father strengthened him for the trials he would face. (Luke 22:41-43)

The disciples, on the other hand, slept. Why? Just because they were tired? No, they were “exhausted from grief.” (Luke 22:45)

They were mentally and emotionally drained from all Jesus had told them. And so they slept.

It was a totally understandable response. I can’t help but wonder if I wouldn’t have done the same. But when trials came, they fled (Matthew 26:56). 

Peter followed Jesus, but ended up denying him. Instead of being able to stand before Jesus, he too left in shame. (Luke 22:54-60)

We are all weak. And it’s understandable that many of us are tired and emotionally drained because of how long Corona has been dragging on. 

But it’s especially in these times that we need to be in prayer. Because without the Father’s help, we will not be able to stand.  

But if we come to him, he will strengthen us. 

And if we have fallen, don’t lose heart. Just as Jesus showed Peter and the disciples grace, he shows us grace and he restores us. 

So as the writer of Hebrews said, 

Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens—Jesus the Son of God—let us hold fast to our confession.

For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who has been tempted in every way as we are, yet without sin.

Therefore, let us approach the throne of grace with boldness, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in time of need. (Hebrews 4:14-16)

Categories
Luke Devotionals

Our hope in dark times

Luke

Nation will be raised up against nation, and kingdom against kingdom.

There will be violent earthquakes, and famines and plagues in various places, and there will be terrifying sights and great signs from heaven…

Then there will be signs in the sun, moon, and stars; and there will be anguish on the earth among nations bewildered by the roaring of the sea and the waves.

People will faint from fear and expectation of the things that are coming on the world, because the powers of the heavens will be shaken. (Luke 21:10-11, 25-26)

It’s hard to read the news and not think of Jesus’ words. Lots of people are living with anxiety and fear because of all that’s going on in the world.

But we have a hope!

Then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. (27)

Not everyone will welcome Jesus’ return. But we who love him do. He is our hope in these dark times. And though this world will pass away, his words, his promises to us won’t. (33)

So,

…when these things begin to take place, stand up and lift your heads, because your redemption is near. (28)

But at the same time, let us guard our hearts. As Jesus said,

Be on your guard, so that your minds are not dulled from carousing, drunkenness, and worries of life, or that day will come on you unexpectedly like a trap.

For it will come on all who live on the face of the whole earth. (34-35)

Instead,

…be alert at all times, praying that you may have strength to escape all these things that are going to take place and to stand before the Son of Man. (36)

All of us are weak. And without Christ, we can easily fall. But as Isaiah said,

The LORD is the everlasting God,
the Creator of the whole earth.

He never becomes faint or weary;
there is no limit to his understanding.

He gives strength to the faint
and strengthens the powerless.

Youths may become faint and weary,
and young men stumble and fall,
but those who trust in the LORD
will renew their strength;

they will soar on wings like eagles;
they will run and not become weary,
they will walk and not faint. (Isaiah 40:28-31)

Categories
Luke Devotionals

Joy

Luke

O Lord, let me know the joy of Zacchaeus. The joy of knowing that you love me. That you accept me. That you actually want to be with me. 

Let me know the joy of your forgiveness and mercy.

And springing from that joy, may I have the overwhelming desire of Zacchaeus to please you. 

It doesn’t matter what other people think or say about me. It is enough that you love and accept me. 

I do love you, Lord. 

Thank you for your love and your grace. In your name I pray, amen.

Categories
Luke Devotionals

A thankful heart

Luke

But one of them, seeing that he was healed, returned and, with a loud voice, gave glory to God. He fell facedown at his feet, thanking him. (Luke 17:15-16)

Reading these words, I thought about the leper’s reaction to his healing. He didn’t just say in a quiet voice, “Thanks God.” Rather, with a loud voice, he was praising God. 

When he returned to Jesus, he didn’t stand before Jesus and give him a handshake. Rather, he fell at Jesus’ feet, thanking him again and again. 

And I thought to myself, “Do I have that kind of thankful heart? A heart of humble, and yet absolute joyous gratitude?” 

We live in such troubled times. How much would our perspective change if we had that heart of humble joyous gratitude that this man had? 

Categories
Luke Devotionals

Justifying myself?

Luke

And he told them, “You are the ones who justify yourselves in the sight of others, but God knows your hearts.

For what is highly admired by people is revolting in God’s sight. (Luke 16:15)

Lord, it can be so easy sometimes to make excuses for my actions when I know they are wrong.

I might convince others I’m right. I might even convince myself. But you know my heart. And I’m sorry for the times that I’ve done what is revolting in your sight.

Thank you for your grace.

But each day, Lord, search me and know my heart. And let me live in a way that is pleasing to you.

In your name I pray, amen.

Categories
Luke Devotionals

A good Father?

Luke

Do we recognize how good our Father is?

The prodigal son didn’t. In his culture, by asking for his inheritance early, he was essentially saying to his father, “I wish you were dead!”

And then when he was hungry and desperate, it never occurred to him that his father could possibly forgive him or accept him as a son.

The older son didn’t recognize his father’s goodness either. He saw himself as a slave, always working, never getting rewarded.

And yet, in the end, their father proved himself good, forgiving his younger son despite his sin, and reaching out in love to his older son despite his sulking.

How about you? Do you recognize your Father’s goodness toward you?

Categories
Luke Devotionals

Why we come to church

Luke

There were a lot of things that struck me in this chapter, but Jesus’ words at the synagogue really made me think.

The synagogue leader was worried about keeping religious rules in the synagogue. So when Jesus healed a woman, the leader wasn’t rejoicing over it. Rather, he got upset.

There are six days when work should be done; therefore come on those days and be healed and not on the Sabbath day. (Luke 13:14)

But Jesus said,

Satan has bound this woman, a daughter of Abraham, for eighteen years—shouldn’t she be untied from this bondage on the Sabbath day? (16)

When we come to church, what are we most concerned about? Maybe it’s not religious rules. But how often are thinking only about ourselves and what we can get at church?

How many people do God send to church that are bound by Satan and need to be set free? Do we even notice them?

Lord, open my eyes when I’m at church. Help me to see those who are bound by Satan and hurting. Let me be an agent of your love to them so that they may be set free.

Categories
Luke Devotionals

Little faither?

Luke

Father, let me not be a “little faither,” always filled with anxiety.

You care for the ravens and the lilies. So help me trust that you will take care of me too. 

Instead of constantly being filled with anxiety, turn my heart towards you. It’s amazing to me that you delight to give me your kingdom.

Let that truth sink in my heart, so that I don’t hold on to the things of this world.

Instead, with a heart of rejoicing, let me touch people for your kingdom.

And as I do, let them see your joy in me that they may desire you too.   

In Jesus’ name, amen.

Categories
Luke Devotionals

The wrong question

Luke

We see in this passage a very famous story: the parable of the Good Samaritan.

Jesus and an expert in the law had been talking about loving God and loving one’s neighbor. And in trying to justify his failure to love his neighbor, the expert asked Jesus, “Who is my neighbor?” 

I think it’s interesting that Jesus never answered that question. Why not? Because it was the wrong one. 

What then is the right question? 

Jesus, after telling the story, asked the expert, “Who was the neighbor to the man attacked by the robbers?”

The expert answered, “The one who showed mercy to him”. 

Upon which, Jesus said, “That’s right. Go and do the same.” 

In short, the question is not, “Who is my neighbor,”  as if we can pick and choose who to love. 

The question is “Am I a neighbor? Am I a mercy-giver?”

And if so, we can’t pick and choose who to love. We just love and show mercy to everyone around us.  

I admit: Like the expert in the law, there are times I struggle mightily to do that. Some people just aren’t very “loveable.” 

That’s why I need a Savior. We all need a Savior because none of us keep God’s command to love perfectly. 

That, by the way, was the main point that Jesus was trying to make before the expert tried to justify his own failures to love others. 

I don’t want to be like that. Do you?

Lord Jesus, you loved me enough to save me and show me mercy. By your grace, let me be a neighbor, let me be a mercy-giver to those who are hurting around me.

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Luke Devotionals

In order to give

Luke

[Jesus] kept giving [bread and fish] to the disciples to set before the crowd. Everyone ate and was filled. (Luke 9:16-17)

I like how this translation renders verse 16. “Jesus kept giving” the bread and fish to his disciples so that the crowd could be fed. 

Like the disciples, we don’t have much to give others, and yet their spiritual needs are so great.

But Jesus doesn’t simply say, “You feed them,” and leave us to our own resources. Rather Jesus keeps giving to us the grace and resources required to meet their needs.

But for that to happen, we need to constantly be plugged into him. We need to constantly put ourselves under the faucet of his grace so that we can be filled up and overflowing.

The question is, are we? 

As Jesus said, 

“I am the vine; you are the branches. The one who remains in me and I in him produces much fruit, because you can do nothing without me…

As the Father has loved me, I have also loved you. Remain in my love.” (John 15:5, 9)

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Luke Devotionals

Too small?

Luke

Lord, how often are you too small in my eyes?

I go through storms in my life and sometimes they seem so huge. But it never occurs to me that you are so much bigger than those storms.

And in my panic, you turn to me and say, “Where is your faith?”

Lord, help me to see how big you really are. To stand in awe of your power.

But as I see how awesome you are, let me not fear you as the Gerasene people did.

Rather, like the man you delivered from demons, like the woman you freed from her disease, and like the parents who saw their child restored to them, help me to see how good you really are.

Help me to not fear, but to simply trust in you. (Luke 8:50)

In your name I pray, amen.

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Luke Devotionals

Worthy? Unworthy?

Luke

It’s interesting to see how people saw themselves and others in this passage, specifically concerning how “worthy” they felt they were of Jesus. 

The Jews looked at the Roman centurion and thought he was worthy of Jesus’ help because of all the good things the centurion had done. 

The centurion, however, didn’t see himself that way. He saw himself as unworthy of having Jesus enter his house. 

Contrast that with Simon at the end of the chapter who thought he was more than worthy of having Jesus as a guest. Actually, he thought Jesus should have felt honored for being allowed in Simon’s house. 

On the other hand, he looked down on the “sinful” woman and considered her unworthy of Jesus’ attention.

But the truth is, we are all “unworthy.” All of us have a debt of sin we can’t repay.

And yet, when we humble ourselves before Jesus, he looks at us as he looked at that woman, and says, “Your sins are forgiven.”

And by his grace, he receives us to himself. 

So with hearts full of thanksgiving, let us always approach his throne with boldness, so that we may receive mercy and grace to help us in our time of need. (Hebrews 4:16)

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Luke Devotionals

Why are you so good to me?

Luke

Lord, like Peter, I have been blessed so much by you, even though I don’t deserve it.

I look at the blessings you give me, I look at my sin, and I ask, “How can you be so good to me? Depart from me! I am a sinful man! I don’t deserve all this!”

And yet you look at me with your gentle eyes and say, “Don’t be afraid. Join me in my work. Join me in touching others as I have touched you.”

So Lord, with Peter, I say, “At your word, I will…”

In your precious name, I pray, amen. 

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Luke Devotionals

Well-pleased

Luke

When all the people were baptized, Jesus also was baptized. As he was praying, heaven opened, and the Holy Spirit descended on him in a physical appearance like a dove.

And a voice came from heaven: “You are my beloved Son; with you I am well-pleased.” (Luke 3:21-22)

It’s interesting to me that right after this, Luke talks about the genealogy of Jesus, which concludes with these words:

…Adam, son of God. (38)

And it made me think, when God created Adam, did he say to Adam what he said to Jesus? 

“You are my beloved son; with you I am well-pleased.”

I’m not sure, but my guess is that God did. 

Jesus is of course God’s perfect Son. But Adam at his creation was also perfect. 

So it seems only natural that God would say to him, “You are my beloved son. With you I am well-pleased.”

What’s amazing to me, though, is that God looks at us, flawed though we are, and he tells us, 

“You are my beloved child. With you I am well-pleased.”

Why can he say that? Because Jesus paid for all our sins on the cross.

Now when he sees us, he doesn’t see us clothed with our sin. Rather, he sees us clothed with Jesus’ righteousness. 

And so he smiles at us, and says, “You are my beloved child. With you I am well-pleased.”

Not angry. 

Not disappointed. 

Well-pleased. 

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Luke Devotionals

Meditating on God’s goodness to us

Luke

But Mary was treasuring up all these things in her heart and meditating on them. (Luke 2:19)

As I read that, I was thinking to myself, “How often do I do this? When God does good things in my life, do I treasure these things in my heart? And how much do I meditate on them?”

It is so easy to forget the good things God does in our lives. If we don’t purposely treasure them in our hearts, then when hard times come, it becomes easy to lose heart.  

In life, there are swords that pierce our souls (35).

So when God shows his goodness to us, let’s write it down in our hearts.

Better yet, keep a written record somewhere. In a diary. In a Word file on your smartphone or computer.

Don’t forget the good things God has done for you. Treasure them. Meditate on them.

And like the shepherds, share with others the things you have seen God do in your life. 

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Ecclesiastes Devotionals

The ultimate answer

Ecclesiastes

“This world so broken? If God is good, why do we see so much evil?”

”What is the meaning to life?”

If you wanted to sum up the two main themes of this book, those would be it.

And they are questions that people ask to this day.

Solomon, the wisest man who ever lived aside from Jesus, said concerning these questions:

But beyond these (the wise words of our Shepherd), my son, be warned: there is no end to the making of many books, and much study wearies the body. (Ecclesiastes 12:12)

How many books are out there trying to explain evil? How many philosophy and self-help books are out there trying to give people a better life, to give them meaning?

All those books may have some truth in them. Some can even prod us in good directions. For all true wisdom is from God (11), and by his grace, even unbelievers have some grasp of the truth.

But ultimately, all human wisdom fails and proves inadequate apart from God. And it will leave you tired and in despair.

There is only one conclusion that gives life. If we would just believe it, if we would just live it, we could toss out all other books and never miss them.

What is that conclusion?

When all has been heard, the conclusion of the matter is this: fear God and keep his commands, because this is for all humanity.

For God will bring every act to judgment, including every hidden thing, whether good or evil. (13-14)

What is the answer to the problem of evil? Why do “good people” suffer?

Ultimately, these questions are beyond us and our limited minds. And because our minds our limited, we are in no position to question God and his goodness.

Rather, fear him. Because the day will come when he will judge all evil, including yours. And apart from Jesus and his work on the cross, no one will be able to stand before him.

What is the meaning to life? Keep his commands.

What are his commands? Love him. And love others. Everything else in life is ultimately meaningless because they are fleeting.

The only two things that go beyond this earthly life is our relationship with God, and our relationships with others who have put their faith in Jesus.

So let us invest our lives in our relationship with him, and spreading his kingdom. For only in these two things will we ever find meaning in life.

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Ecclesiastes Devotionals

Because life is a breath

Ecclesiastes

One thing to note about the word “vanity” that Solomon has repeated time and again in Ecclesiastes is that it literally means “a breath.” A breath is such a temporary thing, which is why it is often used as a metaphor for “vanity.”

Throughout the Bible, life is often described as a breath. Our time here on earth is short. There is so much that is uncertain in life.

We don’t know what disasters may befall us. We can plan for different contingencies and it is wise to do so because we don’t know what will happen in the future. (Ecclesiastes 11:1-6)

But as  I’ve mentioned before, death eventually comes for us all.

So what do we do with that knowledge?

1. Rejoice in the gift of life God has given us. He has given us so much that we can rejoice in. (7-9)

2. Remember that we are in a broken world. And so it doesn’t matter how righteous you are, bad things will happen to us. (8b)

3. Remember that whether good or bad, all things in this life are fleeting.

So when evil things happen on this earth, remember that they are temporary. They won’t last forever.

That’s important for everyone to remember, but especially for those who are young. Too often young people waste their best years because they think their sorrows will never end. (10)

On the other hand, when good things happen earth, enjoy them, thank God for them, but remember that good times too are fleeting, and that we will see trouble in our lives again.

4. But most importantly, remember that our life here on earth is preparation for eternity. And the day will come when God will judge us all. (9b)

We can waste a lot of time with things that are merely temporary. We can put our hope in a lot of things that cannot deliver. So let us instead turn our eyes on God and put our hope in him.

So let us pray with David.

LORD, make me aware of my end
and the number of my days
so that I will know how short-lived I am.

In fact, you have made my days just inches long,
and my life span is as nothing to you.
Yes, every human being stands as only a vapor.
Selah

Yes, a person goes about like a mere shadow.
Indeed, they rush around in vain,
gathering possessions
without knowing who will get them.

“Now, Lord, what do I wait for?
My hope is in you. (Psalm 39:4-7)

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Ecclesiastes Devotionals

A natural thing?

Ecclesiastes

“Death is a natural thing. It’s just a part of the cycle of life.”

Have you ever heard that before?

Is it true?

Yes…and no.

In a world broken by sin, it is a natural thing. As Paul said, the wages of sin is death. (Romans 6:23)

But God originally created us as eternal beings. 

If death were truly natural, people wouldn’t fight the thought of death. But as it is, they have to convince themselves that it is a “natural” thing.

Deep down, all people realize what Solomon did: death is evil. (Ecclesiastes 9:3)

And death comes for all people, sometimes more suddenly than we expect. (2, 11-12)

How do we respond to that knowledge? 

We could despair. To rage at the evil that death is. 

We could also waste a lot of our short time here on earth on worthless things like hatred and envy.  

Or we could do as Solomon says and enjoy the gift of life we have been given, fleeting though it may be. We could use the time we have to show love to the people we care about. (6-9) 

We could use our minds and our bodies that God has blessed us with to glorify him in our work, in our leisure, and in everything else we do. (10, Colossians 3:17)

The question, though, is why bother? What’s the point of it all?

The point is that the grave is not the end. 

Jesus said, “Because I live, you will live too.” (John 14:19)

And ultimately,

The righteous, the wise, and their works are in God’s hands. (Ecclesiastes 9:1)

So let us not live in despair because of the prospect of death. Rather, let us sing with Solomon’s father David.

I have set the Lord always before me;
because he is at my right hand, I shall not be shaken. 

Therefore my heart is glad, and my whole being rejoices;
my flesh also dwells secure. 

For you will not abandon my soul to Sheol,
or let your holy one see corruption. 

You make known to me the path of life;
in your presence there is fullness of joy;
at your right hand are pleasures forevermore. (Psalm 16:8-11, ESV)

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Ecclesiastes Devotionals

In a world where we see evil.

Ecclesiastes

I don’t think anyone can deny we live in an evil world. None of us are untouched by it. But how do we deal with evil when we are touched by it?

I think there are three answers we find in this passage.

1. Don’t break your brains trying to find out all the whys for evil in the world.

As I mentioned in my last article, Solomon was the wisest person who ever lived besides Jesus, and he couldn’t figure it out. Neither will you. (Ecclesiastes 8:16-17)

2. Trust that God will bring justice in the end. (12-13)

We may never see justice here on earth. (10-11). But our God is good, and ultimately, the Judge of all the earth will do what is right. (Genesis 18:25)

3. Seek God’s wisdom.

We live in a world where people have the power to hurt others. (9) 

Just because we are Christians doesn’t mean we’ll escape that. So when people hurt you, seek God’s wisdom on how to deal with them.

When do we seek justice? When do we show mercy? When do we simply leave justice in God’s hands? To answer those questions, we need God’s wisdom.

Solomon said, 

…a wise heart knows the right time and procedure. For every activity there is a right time and procedure, even though a person’s troubles are heavy on him. (Ecclesiastes 8:5-6)

4. Choose to rejoice. (15) 

If our focus is always on our troubles, it will suck us into a pit of despair.

But the Lord is near. He is good. So in the midst of our troubles, let us focus on him, and his goodness to us.

And as we lay our burdens before him, let us not forget all the things we have to be thankful for.

As you do, even though you may be touched by evil in this world, you will know God’s peace. (Philippians 4:5-7)

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Ecclesiastes Devotionals

Why is this happening to me?

Ecclesiastes

Let’s be honest. This passage has some difficult things to understand in it. I have read different commentators talk about this passage, and many times, they are saying completely different things.

Take for example,

Don’t be excessively righteous, and don’t be overly wise. Why should you destroy yourself?

Don’t be excessively wicked, and don’t be foolish. Why should you die before your time?

It is good that you grasp the one and do not let the other slip from your hand. For the one who fears God will end up with both of them. (Ecclesiastes 7:16-18)

What does it mean, “Don’t be excessively righteous”?

And what does it mean, “Don’t be excessively wicked”?

Is Solomon saying that as long as we don’t sin too much, it’s okay to sin from time to time?

Probably not, considering that he talks about the one who “fears God” holding to both truths.

So what does Solomon mean then?

In verse 12, he talks about how wisdom is a protection for us.

But then he says this does not mean that if we are wise, nothing bad will happen to us.

God of course does bless us. But there are times when he allows us to go through trials too. There are times when good people perish. And there are times when bad people prosper. (13-15)

That said, Solomon points out in verse 20 that no one is truly righteous. All of us sin.

So there is no one that can honestly say, “Why is this happening? I’ve never done anything wrong.”

How often, for example, do we point out others’ sins while failing to see we’re guilty of the exact same things? (21-22)

What Solomon probably means then is, “Don’t see yourself as so righteous that you think you should never go through trials or suffering.”

There is no one that righteous.

On the other hand, just because you sometimes see good people suffer and evil people prosper is no reason to start sinning wildly. That will certainly lead to death. (Romans 6:23)

What does it mean not to be overly wise? Solomon probably means that we shouldn’t think we are wise enough to figure out all the reasons for evil in this world.

Solomon was the wisest person who ever lived apart from Jesus and he couldn’t figure it out.

He studied people both men and women. He never did find a woman he could completely figure out. And he didn’t have much more success with men. The only thing he ever did conclude is that we are all people tainted by sin. (23-29)

We can break our brain and potentially destroy our faith trying to figure out all the reasons for evil in the world.

Job’s friends thought they had all the answers. And all they earned for their “wisdom” was God’s rebuke.

So let us avoid both those ways of thinking. Instead, let us humble ourselves before God, trusting he is good, and continuing to follow him no matter what.

And if we do, like Job, we will find out that he is indeed good. (Job 42)

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Ecclesiastes Devotionals

Content, enjoying life, blessing others?

Ecclesiastes

One of the big themes in this chapter is contentment. Solomon writes, 

Better what the eyes see than wandering desire. This too is futile and a pursuit of the wind. (Ecclesiastes 6:9)

We cannot enjoy life if we are not content. How often do we fail to enjoy the good things we have because of the things we don’t.

Solomon talks of a man blessed with many children. But because he is discontent, he fails to enjoy his relationship with his kids, and he dies unloved and unburied. (3)

But it is not enough to simply be content.

The man in Jesus’ parable in Luke 12:16-21 was very content. The problem was that he was also very selfish. And because of it, God brought judgment on him.

Perhaps Jesus was thinking of Ecclesiastes 6:2 when he told this story. 

God has called us to be a blessing to others. And as we bless others, we find the truth in Jesus’ words:

It is more blessed to give than to receive. (Acts 20:35)

Do you want to enjoy the life God has given you? Then learn to be content. And as God has blessed you, bless others. 

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Ecclesiastes Devotionals

Who we put our hope in

Ecclesiastes

If you see in a province the oppression of the poor and the violation of justice and righteousness, do not be amazed at the matter, for the high official is watched by a higher, and there are yet higher ones over them.

But this is gain for a land in every way: a king committed to cultivated fields. (Ecclesiastes 5:8-9, ESV)

I don’t know about you, but I don’t have much faith in politicians, bureaucrats, or judges.

The strange thing is, neither did Solomon. And he was a king.

Of course, not all politicians, bureaucrats, and judges are bad.

Solomon certainly saw the benefit of government. With good government, a country can prosper. (9)

But on the other hand, although there are different levels of government which are supposed to provide a measure of accountability for the officials, there is corruption that creeps into each level.

The result? We sometimes see injustice and unrighteousness within that government and within society.

That’s the result of living in a world broken by sin.

So as Christians, our hope is not to be in government. Of course, government was established by God and is thus a good and necessary thing. But because of sin, it is also an imperfect tool. (Romans 13:1-7)

What is our hope to be in then? I love the words of the late Chuck Colson. He said,

Where is the hope? I meet millions of people who feel demoralized by the decay around us.

The hope that each of us has is not in who governs us, or what laws we pass, or what great things we do as a nation.

Our hope is in the power of God working through the hearts of people. And that’s where our hope is in this country. And that’s where our hope is in life.

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Ecclesiastes Devotionals

Rethinking our priorities

Ecclesiastes

Again, I saw futility under the sun: There is a person without a companion, without even a son or brother, and though there is no end to all his struggles, his eyes are still not content with riches.

“Who am I struggling for,” he asks, “and depriving myself of good things?” This too is futile and a miserable task.” (Ecclesiastes 4:7-8)

How often do we take a step back and think about our priorities? 

The person Solomon describes here is essentially a workaholic, seeking wealth and financial security.

But in doing so, he has no loving relationships and can’t even enjoy the wealth he has because he’s working so hard. More, he is already rich, but he still can’t seem to find satisfaction in it. 

What are we prioritizing in life? Life is not worth living without God and people around us who love us. 

One person can easily fall. But a cord of three strands, God, you, and those you love, is not easily broken. (12)

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Psalms Devotionals

A disciple’s prayer

Psalms

Taste and see that the Lord is good. (Psalm 34:8)

Lord, I have tasted your goodness. I want to taste more.

As I read your word, let me taste your goodness.

As I pray and I hear you speak to me, let me taste your goodness.

As I see you answer my prayers, let me taste your goodness.

When I’m depressed because I have fallen into sin yet again, let me taste your goodness, knowing the sweetness of your forgiveness.

When I go through struggles and trials in my life, when I am so totally aware of how weak and inadequate I am, let me taste your goodness. Especially as I come to understand that your grace is sufficient for me and that your power is made perfect in my weakness.

As I go out into this world and touch others, let others taste your goodness.

Let my family taste your goodness through me.

Let my friends, coworkers, and neighbors taste your goodness through me.

Let the people at church taste your goodness through me.

And as that happens, let me taste your goodness as I see you work in me, imperfect child of yours though I may be.

Each day, Lord, let me taste your goodness in some way.

In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Ecclesiastes Devotionals

The source of our joy

Ecclesiastes

As I noted yesterday, many times Solomon writes as someone who is living without God at the center of his life. Why?

Because for a long time he actually did so. He married foreign wives who led him into idolatry. And while he still worshiped God, his worship was diluted. And with that came a desire to seek joy in his life apart from God. 

That is the problem with many people today. They seek joy apart from God. 

They look for it in pleasure. (Ecclesiastes 2:1)

They look for it in work and in amassing wealth and possessions. (4-9)

They look for it in being smarter and wiser than everyone else. (12-14)

These things may bring joy for a time. But ultimately, without God in your life, they leave you empty and in despair. (1-2, 11, 14-23)

And Solomon realized, “God does want us to enjoy this world he has given us. But we cannot separate the gift from the Giver.” 

So Solomon concludes,

who can eat and who can enjoy life apart from him? For to the person who is pleasing in his sight, he gives wisdom, knowledge, and joy; (Ecclesiastes 2:25-26)

Let us not waste as much time as Solomon did figuring this out. 

God wants us to enjoy this life he has given us. But we will never find true joy without him.

So let us always place him in the center of our lives. If we do so, not only will we find true joy, but our joy will be complete. (John 15:9-11) 

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Ecclesiastes Devotionals

If God is not at the center…

Ecclesiastes

Ecclesiastes can be a very depressing book. But the key to it can be found in this one expression: “If God is at the center of our lives…”

If God is at the center of our lives, all our work has meaning, because through it, we give glory to him (Colossians 3:17, 23-24).

If work itself is the center of our lives, we will ultimately look back and ask, “What have I really achieved?” (Ecclesiastes 1:3)

If God is at the center of our lives, we can look at creation and stand in wonder at its design and its Creator (Psalm 19:1-6; Psalm 104).

When he’s not, we lose our wonder at what God has created. (Ecclesiastes 1:5-9)

If God is at the center of our lives, each day is a new adventure with Him. His goodness and faithfulness are new every morning (Lamentations 3:22-23).

When he’s not, we enter each day with no joy, no expectation of anything good, just trying to make it through another day. (Ecclesiastes 1:8-11)

If God is at the center of our lives, there is always hope. We, in God’s wisdom, see all the things that are broken in this world, and yet we see that what people have broken, God can heal.

Without God, “wisdom” leads to despair. We see our limitations and realize how powerless we are to fix all that is broken in this world. (Ecclesiastes 1:12-18)

So as you read the words of Solomon in Ecclesiastes, always keep in mind the perspective he is expressing when speaking.

At times, he speaks as a man with God at the center of his life. At times, he doesn’t.  

When he doesn’t, and his words seem so pessimistic and discouraging, ask yourself, “How would Solomon’s words be different if he were speaking as a man with God at the center of his life?” 

More importantly, ask yourself, “How would my perspective be different if God were at the center of my life?”

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Proverbs Devotionals

Treasuring God’s wisdom

Often times, when we read this passage, we think about the depiction given concerning the ideal wife.

But it struck me today that in Proverbs 8-9, wisdom is personified as a woman. 

And many of the things that this passage says of the ideal wife, it says of wisdom.

Wisdom is considered more precious than jewels. (Proverbs 3:13-15, 31:10)

Wisdom is characterized by fear of the Lord. (Proverbs 9:10, 31:30)

It is characterized by hard work (Proverbs 6:6-11, 31:13-19), generosity (Proverbs 11:24-25; 31:20), and peace about the future. (Proverbs 24:14; 31:25)

And wisdom expresses itself in the words it speaks. (Proverbs 8:6-9, 14; 10:11-13, 20-21, 31:26)

So as we finish up Proverbs today, may we all, both men and women, strive to be people characterized by God’s wisdom, putting into practice all the things we’ve read in this book.  

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Proverbs Devotionals

Humility

It’s kind of ironic that as we near the end of the book of Proverbs, after hearing all this wisdom, we see someone still saying, 

I am more stupid than any other person,
and I lack a human’s ability to understand. 

I have not gained wisdom,
and I have no knowledge of the Holy One. (Proverbs 30:2-3)

But maybe that’s the kind of humility we need. Because no matter how wise we think we are, our wisdom cannot compare with God’s.

Yet when times get rough, we start to question God.

We wonder why he allows Corona. We wonder why he allows natural disasters. We wonder why he allows all the evil we see in the world. 

Like Job, we can try to demand answers from God. Like Job’s friends, we can pretend to know what all the answers are.  

But in the end, we realize, “I know nothing.” 

Only One truly knows and understand all things, and that isn’t us. (4)

So we have a choice. In our ignorance, we can rail against God. Or we can humble ourselves and say with Job,

I know that you can do anything
and no plan of yours can be thwarted. 

You asked, “Who is this who conceals my counsel with ignorance?”

Surely I spoke about things I did not understand,
things too wondrous for me to know. (Job 42:2-3)

At the beginning of the Proverbs, we saw these words, 

The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge. (Proverbs 1:7)

And again,

The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom,
and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding. (Proverbs 9:10)

We will never understand everything. But if we want to make a beginning, it starts with this: fear the Lord. And trust him. 

What will you choose?

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Proverbs Devotionals

Tending our sheep

Know well the condition of your flock,
and pay attention to your herd. (Proverbs 27:23)

Those words made me stop and think a bit about those God has given me to care for. My wife. My daughter. People in my small group.

Do I know well their condition? Do I pay attention to their needs? 

Why is that important? 

One reason is found in verses 24-27. Not only will they be blessed by us. But the day will come when we will be blessed by them. 

But more importantly, we have our own Shepherd’s command. 

He said to Peter. “Do you love me? Then feed my lambs. Take care of my sheep. Feed my sheep.” (John 21:15-17)

He says the same to us. We cannot separate love for Jesus from our love for others, especially those God has put in our care. 

Who has God put into your care? Do you know their condition? Do you pay attention to their needs?

Categories
Proverbs Devotionals

Using proverbs wisely

A proverb in the mouth of a fool
is like lame legs that hang limp. (Proverbs 26:7)

A proverb in the mouth of a fool
is like a stick with thorns,
brandished by the hand of a drunkard. (9)

One mistake people make in reading the Bible is how they use proverbs. But as it says in the above proverbs, if you use them wrongly, they are worthless at best, and can be hurtful at worst. 

Take Job’s friends for example. Their mouths were full of proverbs. Paul even quotes one in the New Testament.

So their words in themselves weren’t wrong. (Job 5:13, 1 Corinthians 3:19)

But they were fools who did not know how to use them and caused great hurt to Job. 

Two important things to remember about Proverbs.

1. They are neither promises or guarantees. They are general truths of how the world God created works. And as with all general truths, there are always exceptions. 

So for example, the general truth that Job’s friends pointed out is that God blesses the righteous and punishes the wicked.

But this does not mean that every person who is blessed on earth has God’s favor.

Nor does it mean that every person struggling in life is under God’s curse.

In this broken world, we see righteous people suffer and wicked people prosper. But the general truth holds, and in the end, God will bring justice to this world. 

Or take this general truth: 

Train up a child in the way he should go;
even when he is old he will not depart from it. (Proverbs 22:6)

Is this a promise? I think we all know it is not.

But how many good parents have beaten themselves up over this verse because despite their best efforts, their child went down a wrong path? 

So be careful about accusing others or accusing yourself when reading these proverbs. 

2. Each proverb has a proper time to be used. 

Take a look at these two proverbs from today’s reading. 

Don’t answer a fool according to his foolishness
or you’ll be like him yourself. 

Answer a fool according to his foolishness
or he’ll become wise in his own eyes. (4-5)

So which is it? Answer the fool or don’t answer him?

The answer: it depends. There are times when it’s best not to let yourself get dragged into an argument because all it will do is bring about a lot of heat and very little light. 

On the other hand, there are times when you need to say something because otherwise the other person will continue thinking that they are right, when in reality he is bringing harm to himself and others.  

So seek God’s wisdom on your best course of action. Both proverbs are wise…at the proper time. 

Let us always use the proverbs we find in the Bible with wisdom. 

Categories
Proverbs Devotionals

To be purified silver

Remove impurities from silver,
and material will be produced for a silversmith. (Proverbs 25:4)

Lord, remove from me all impurities that I may be material that you can use for your purposes. 

Search my heart. Root out any sinful thoughts and habits. Root out any wrong motives and attitudes.

Thank you for using me despite my imperfections. By your grace, you can use someone as flawed as I am. That’s amazing to me.  

Still, I want to be more like you.

May my life be completely pleasing in your sight. May I be your special instrument, set apart for your use, useful to you, and prepared for every good work. (2 Timothy 2:21)

In Jesus’ name, amen.  

Categories
Proverbs Devotionals

When our strength is small

If you faint in the day of adversity,
your strength is small. (Proverbs 24:10, ESV)

It would be easy to look at these words and condemn ourselves if we find ourselves faltering in the face of adversity.

To look at ourselves and say, “How weak I am! I should be stronger than this!”

But the truth is, our strength is small. And if we rest in our own strength, we will falter. No matter how strong we may be, we will always find situations that are too big for us. 

So what do we do? 

Paul tells us.

Finally, be strengthened by the Lord and by his vast strength. (Ephesians 6:10)

Or as the psalmist put it,

Seek the Lord and his strength;
seek his face always. (Psalm 105:4)

And let us remember our Lord’s own words. 

My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is perfected in weakness. (2 Corinthians 12:9)

So in these times of adversity, let us take on Paul’s attitude.

Therefore, I will most gladly boast all the more about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may reside in me. 

So I take pleasure in weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and in difficulties, for the sake of Christ.

For when I am weak, then I am strong. (2 Corinthians 12:9-10)

Categories
Proverbs Devotionals

Our Father’s heart

In this passage, Solomon is writing to his son. But in his words, I think we see our heavenly Father’s heart toward us. 

My son, if your heart is wise,
my heart will indeed rejoice.

My innermost being will celebrate
when your lips say what is right. (Proverbs 23:15-16)

I think most parents can understand those words. When we see our children acting wisely and doing what is right, it gives us joy.

In the same way, our heavenly Father’s heart rejoices when he sees us acting wisely and doing what is right. 

And so he tells us, 

Listen, my son, and be wise;
keep your mind on the right course. (19)

But more importantly, he tells us, 

My son, give me your heart,
and let your eyes observe my ways. (26)

More than anything else, God wants our hearts. Because if he has our hearts, we will delight in following him and his ways. 

Father, I give you my heart. Help me keep my mind on the right course. And let me live in a way that brings joy to your heart. I love you. In Jesus’ name amen. 

Categories
Psalms Devotionals

Taking God and his grace for granted

Psalms

Our ancestors in Egypt did not grasp
the significance of your wondrous works
or remember your many acts of faithful love… (Psalm 106:7)

I wonder how often those words describe us. We don’t grasp the significance of God’s wondrous work of salvation, the faithful love he showed at the cross.

Instead, we forget all he has done for us. (13a)

Instead of seeking his counsel, we follow our own. (13b)

We crave the sinful things of our old life. (14a) 

We test God, questioning whether he is really with us or not. (14b)

We despise the good things he has given us, and question his promises. (24)

We grumble against him and do not listen to him. (25)

We adopt the ways of our culture, while rejecting what God has said. (35)

The gods our culture follows become snares to us and we serve them. (36)

 We defile ourselves with our actions and act unfaithfully to God. (39)

And yet, despite all that, when we repent, we find grace. 

As Moses and Phinehas stood in the gap and interceded for the people when they sinned, so Jesus does for us. (23, 30)

Let us never take that grace for granted. Let us never take Jesus and what he suffered for us for granted. 

Rather let us always keep hearts full of thanksgiving and praise, singing,

Blessed be the Lord God of Israel,
from everlasting to everlasting. (48)

Categories
Psalms Devotionals

Seeking God’s face…always

Psalms

Seek the Lord and his strength;
seek his face always. (Psalm 105:4)

“Seek his face always,” the psalmist says.

Not just when you’re in trouble. Not just when you feel overwhelmed.

Always.

How often, though, do we rely on our own strength and wisdom.

I know I do.

“I’m okay, God. I’ve got this handled. You can just sit down and relax over there.”

And then we fall flat on our faces.

Often times this happens after a great victory in our lives.  

Joshua and the Israelites did this when entering the promised land…twice. (Joshua 7, 9)

King Asa did as well. (2 Chronicles 16)

Let’s not fall into that trap.

Instead,

Seek the Lord and his strength;
seek his face always. (Psalm 105:4)

Categories
Psalms Devotionals

God’s goodness, God’s provision

Psalms

As I read Psalm 104, I couldn’t help but think of Jesus’ words in his Sermon on the Mount.

Therefore I tell you: Don’t worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; or about your body, what you will wear.

Isn’t life more than food and the body more than clothing?

Consider the birds of the sky: They don’t sow or reap or gather into barns, yet your heavenly Father feeds them.

Aren’t you worth more than they? (Matthew 6:25-26)

I’m not sure, but maybe Jesus took some of his ideas from this psalm. Time and again, we see in this psalm God providing food, water, and shelter for the animals of this earth.

And if God cares for them, how much more will he care for us?

How often do we meditate on our worries each day?  

How much better to pray as the psalmist did?

I will sing to the Lord all my life;
I will sing praise to my God while I live.

May my meditation be pleasing to him;
I will rejoice in the Lord. (Psalm 104:33-34)

Categories
Psalms Devotionals

When God looked down

Psalms

He looked down from his holy heights—
the Lord gazed out from heaven to earth—
to hear a prisoner’s groaning, 
to set free those condemned to die,
so that they might declare 
the name of the Lord in Zion 
and his praise in Jerusalem when peoples and kingdoms are assembled to serve the Lord.” (Psalm 102:19-22)

Those words reminded me of the Lord delivering the Israelites from Egypt.

They were groaning and condemned to die in slavery. But God looked down and heard them, setting them free. (Exodus 2:23-25, 3:7-10)

And because of that, they praised the Lord, declaring his name, and serving him.

In the same way, we were all groaning and condemned to die because of our sin. But God looked down and heard our cries. And by his grace he saved us. 

And the day will come when people from every tribe, tongue, and nation will stand before him to serve and worship him forever. (Revelation 7:9-17)

So when we are weak, when we are crying out to him, let us always remember what an awesome God we serve!

Categories
Psalms Devotionals

To be like You

Psalms

Lord, I will sing praise to you because you are a God of faithful love and justice. Lord, I desire to be like you. (Psalm 101:1)

Let me be a man of integrity, not only where people can see me, but at home as well. (2) 

Lord, may worthless things not control the way I think. May you and your Word alone shape my thinking.

And though I am in the world, may I not be of it. Don’t let the sins of this world cling to me. Rather, let your light shine through me. (3-4)

Come to me Father. Come to me Jesus. Make your home in me. (John 14:23)

In Jesus’ name, amen.

Categories
Psalms Devotionals

Living as if we were already in heaven

Psalms

When reading Psalm 100 today, it struck me that it describes what life in heaven will be like.

We will shout triumphantly because of the victory that we have in Jesus. (Psalm 100:1)

We will serve the Lord with gladness.

We will come before him with joyful songs. (2)

We will acknowledge and rejoice in the fact that we are his. (3)

We will enter his presence with thanksgiving and praise. We will bless his name. (4)

For he is good, his faithful love endures forever, and his faithfulness to all generations. (5)

What an awesome depiction of heaven!

But why wait for heaven? Why not live that way each and every day?

Categories
Psalms Devotionals

God’s priests, God’s children

Psalms

As I read Psalm 99, I thought about how amazing it is that we have the same kind of position with God that people like Moses, Aaron, and Samuel did. We are priests before him.

When we call on him, he answers. He reveals himself to us, speaks to us, and teaches us his ways.

Oh, we may not see him in a pillar of cloud, but we have something better. We have his Holy Spirit himself dwelling within us.

When we fail, God is forgiving towards us, but he doesn’t ignore our sin. He deals with it. He brings discipline into our lives.

Most amazing of all, this exalted and holy God humbled himself and became a man, taking our sin upon himself at the cross.

It is because of what Jesus did that we can stand before God as his priests and as his beloved children.

Those are pretty awesome things to think about.

Categories
Psalms Devotionals

Hating evil, choosing to rejoice

Psalms

Two verses caught my eyes this morning. They made me think of the attitudes of my heart.

O you who love the Lord, hate evil! (Psalm 97:10)

It is impossible for those who truly love the Lord, to love evil.

But how much do I hate it? How much do I hate the sin in my own life? Are there sins I embrace? Or maybe I don’t embrace them, but I make excuses for them.

Lord, help me to hate sin in my life.

Rejoice in the Lord, O you righteous,
and give thanks to his holy name! (12)

There is lots I could complain about in this world. But we are called to rejoice in the Lord. To give thanks to him.

How much would my attitudes change if I chose to rejoice, if I chose to give thanks every day? To rejoice in his salvation. To give thanks for his love. To rejoice in his goodness. To give thanks for the blessings he has given me.

Lord, help me to have a heart that rejoices each day. And give me a thankful heart.

I choose to rejoice in you today. And I choose to have a thankful heart.

Categories
Psalms Devotionals

A reason to rejoice

Psalms

Lord, I live in a dark world. I see moral decay around me. I see people living without hope.

But Lord, you have called me to rejoice. To sing to you a new song (Psalm 96:1-2).

And why not?

After all, you saved me, forgiving my sin and giving me new life.

And now you have called me to proclaim your salvation from day to day. To declare your glory and your wondrous work of salvation to a people who are dying. (3)

Lord, they worship worthless idols that cannot save them. But we worship you.

You are great and highly praised. You reign! And you are coming back to judge this world in righteousness and faithfulness. (4-5, 10, 13)

Lord, I look forward to that day.

But many people around me don’t know you. They don’t know your goodness. They don’t know your salvation.

Let them see your joy in me. And give me the opportunity and courage to proclaim your wondrous work of salvation to them.

In Jesus’ name, amen.

Categories
Psalms Devotionals

A prayer to the Rock of my salvation

Psalms

Lord, you are the Rock of my salvation. Just as the rock was struck at Massah and Meribah giving the people life-giving water, you were struck on the cross giving me eternal life (Exodus 17:1-7, I Corinthians 10:4, John 4:10-14, 7:37-39).

I rejoice in you, Lord, because you have triumphed over Satan, sin, and death! And I’m so grateful for the grace that you have given me. (Psalm 95:1-2)

You are the great God, the King of all other “gods.” You are the Creator of all things. (3-5)

So Lord I bow down to you. I worship you. You are my God, my shepherd. I am your sheep. I am yours. (6-7)

Help me to always remember that, Lord. When trials come and I’m struggling, let me never question you, asking “Are you really with me?” (Exodus 17:7)

You’ve already proven your love and goodness to me. So help me to trust you. And no matter what happens to me, let me enter your rest, rejoicing in you today, and every day.

Thank you Lord for your goodness.

Categories
Psalms Devotionals

The Lord reigns

Psalms

The Lord reigns…

Your throne has been established
from the beginning;
you are from eternity. (Psalm 93:1-2)

In a world filled with trouble and turmoil, those are heartening words.

The Lord reigns. He is in control.

He was in control from the very beginning.

For he himself existed before anything was ever created.

And when the flood waters of Covid or other problems arise, he’s not worried. He is greater and mightier than them all.

So in these troubled times, let us reflect on those truths.

Our God reigns.

OUR GOD REIGNS!!!

Categories
Psalms Devotionals

Keeping perspective

Psalms

The psalmist’s words really struck me this morning.

It is good to give thanks to the Lord,
to sing praise to your name, Most High,
to declare your faithful love in the morning
and your faithfulness at night… (Psalm 92:1-2)

To be honest, these are things I need to do more often.

Often times, the first thing I’m listening to in the morning is the news, which is not something that often puts me in a particularly worshipful mood. On the contrary, it can have a negative effect on my attitude right from the get-go.

And his faithfulness is also not something I spend a lot of time reflecting on at night before I go to bed.

How much would my attitudes be different throughout the day, if I started and ended each day rejoicing in his faithful love in the morning and reminding myself of his faithfulness to me at night.

Something to think about…

Categories
Psalms Devotionals

No fear

Psalms

I don’t know about you, but Psalm 91 has always seemed to promise too much, as if we’ll never have any problems if we just trust in God.

Obviously, Satan tried to misuse this psalm to tempt Jesus. “Hey, jump off the building and the angels will catch you. That’s what God promised, right?”

And some Christians today misuse it to say that Christians should never get sick or have problems.

But as I read this passage today, it made me think of the Israelites’ experience in Egypt.

The Egyptians experienced a lot of the things the psalmist talked about as judgment from God. They experienced plague and pestilence. And of course they experienced terror at night as all their firstborn sons died.

On the other hand, the Lord protected all his people from experiencing that terrible judgment.

You see that pattern time and again in the Bible. The wicked are eventually judged, but God’s people are spared from God’s judgment (Ezekiel 9, 2 Peter 2:4-10, Revelation 7:1-3; 9:1-21)

In the same way, God will eventually judge this earth. But if we belong to him, if we have made him our refuge, putting our trust in him, we do not need to fear his judgment.

As John put it,

God is love, and the one who remains in love remains in God, and God remains in him.

In this, love is made complete with us so that we may have confidence in the day of judgment, because as he is, so also are we in this world.

There is no fear in love; instead, perfect love drives out fear, because fear involves punishment. So the one who fears is not complete in love. (1 John 4:16-18)

So if bad things are happening to you, and you think it must be because God is punishing you, understand that God isn’t. Jesus already took your punishment on a cross 2000 years ago.

But not only do we not have to fear God’s judgment, we also don’t have to fear the enemy’s attacks on us.

In scripture, Satan is depicted as a serpent and a lion. (Genesis 3, 1 Peter 5:8)

I find it interesting that when Satan tempted Jesus, he quoted verses 11-12, and skipped verse 13,

You will tread on the lion and the cobra;
you will trample the young lion and the serpent. (Psalm 91:13)

Maybe it reminded him too much of what God told the serpent about the Savior who would come.

He will strike your head,
and you will strike his heel. (Genesis 3:15)

Satan will strike us. But like the damage he did to Jesus, that damage will not be permanent. He can kill our bodies. But he cannot destroy our souls.

And the day will come when we will rejoice and worship God because of it. (Revelation 7:9-17)

So let’s not fear God’s judgment nor Satan’s attacks. Rather, let us remember God’s promises to us:

Because he has his heart set on me,
I will deliver him;
I will protect him because he knows my name.

When he calls out to me, I will answer him;
I will be with him in trouble.

I will rescue him and give him honor.

I will satisfy him with a long life
and show him my salvation. (Psalm 91:14-16)

Categories
Psalms Devotionals

Reflecting on God’s Word

Psalms

How often when we do our Bible reading do we just kind of speed through it, without reflecting on the words.

We read our passage for the day, and say, “‘Okay, I’ve done my Christian duty for the day.”

I will admit, there was a time in my life when that’s how I did my Bible reading.

But that’s not how Jesus’ apostles did it. They thought on those words. They reflected on them. They pondered them.

I think Peter was doing that with Psalm 90 when he wrote his second letter.

Take some time to read 2 Peter 3 in combination with this psalm.

Look at how Peter talks about the theme of God’s judgment that Moses sings about in this psalm. (Psalm 90:3-8)

Look at how Peter quotes Psalm 90. Think about how Peter responds to Moses’ prayer, “Return, Lord! How long must we suffer in this broken world?”  (Psalm 90:4, 13)

Why is it that God seems to be waiting so long? What is he waiting for?

According to Peter, how will the Lord answer Moses’ prayer in verses 14-17.

And until he returns, what does it mean to live wisely, in the fear of God? (Psalm 90:10-12)

All these things, Peter reflected on in his letter. Let’s take the time to do so too. Not just with today’s passage, but with every passage we read in the Bible.

Categories
Proverbs Devotionals

Our awesome Designer

The hearing ear and the seeing eye—
the Lord made them both. (Proverbs 20:12)

This is probably one of those verses you read and think, “And…?

“Sure, the Lord made my eyes and ears. So what?”

But have you ever thought about how complicated a mechanism the eyes and ears are?

Think about the eye. It has the ability to focus on things close and far away. It has the ability to adjust to light and dark. And all this connects to our brain so that we can process what our eye is looking at.

With all our modern technology, scientists still haven’t figured out how to perfectly replicate what God has made.

The same kinds of things could be said about the ear.

Can we say what this world says? That this all came together by chance?

I can’t. I have to conclude there was an intelligent Designer.

I don’t know about you, but I think we worship a pretty awesome God.

Categories
Proverbs Devotionals

Mad at God?

A person’s own foolishness leads him astray,
yet his heart rages against the Lord. (Proverbs 19:3)

How often do we make bad decisions, and then get mad at God when we get in trouble.

We act hastily without thinking, or worse, without praying. (2, 21)

We ignore God’s commands. (16, 27)

We easily lose our temper. (11)

Or we waste too much of our time. (15)

Solomon tells us,

The fear of the Lord leads to life,
and whoever has it rests satisfied. (23)

Let us always have hearts that are humble before God, not raging at him for our bad decisions, but quickly repenting and submitting to him and his Word.

Categories
Proverbs Devotionals

The road to reconciliation

Sometimes, relationships get broken and there seems to be no road to reconciliation.

Solomon recognized this, saying,

An offended brother is harder to reach
than a fortified city,
and quarrels are like the bars of a fortress. (Proverbs 18:19)

If there is ever to be reconciliation, there’s one thing we need to learn: to listen to the other person.

Solomon said,

The one who gives an answer before he listens—
this is foolishness and disgrace for him. (13)

How often, when the other person is talking, do we use that time, not to listen, but to simply think about what we are going to say next?

I know I’ve been guilty of that.

This is not to say that we have to agree with everything the other person says. They may be the one in the wrong. But if we’re not even willing to listen to the other person, their walls will only get higher.

And the truth is, there are times when we are the one in the wrong.

That’s why Solomon said,

The first to state his case seems right
until another comes and cross-examines him. (17)

We may be fully convinced we are in the right. But if we take the time to actually listen to the other person, we just might find out we are the one in the wrong.

Obviously, reconciliation needs to be a two-way thing. But we can’t control how the other person responds.

What we can control is our own actions. And if we are willing to humbly listen to the other person, it just may cause them to do the same, opening the door to reconciliation.

Lord, give me a humble heart. Even when I think I’m right, give me the humility to truly listen. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Categories
Proverbs Devotionals

In times of trials

As I looked at today’s passage, two verses struck me.

A crucible for silver, and a smelter for gold,
and the Lord is the tester of hearts. (Proverbs 17:3)

Throughout scripture, it’s clear that God allows his people to go through trials. And one reason is to test their hearts.

But why would he need to do that? Doesn’t he know our hearts already?

Of course he does. But often times we don’t. And through our trials, all our faults and weaknesses rise to the surface.

On the other hand, sometimes through our trials, we come to realize that we are stronger than we had thought.

Either way, God’s purpose isn’t to destroy us, it is to make us more like Jesus.

But there is another important thing to remember: we don’t have to go through our trials alone.

Solomon wrote,

A friend loves at all times,
and a brother is born for a difficult time. (17)

God’s desire is that as we go through our trials, we support one another.

So when you’re struggling, don’t feel ashamed to reach out to others for help. And when you see others struggling, be quick to reach out to help them.

More importantly though, remember that Jesus is a friend that loves us at all times. And he will be there for us in our most difficult times.

I think of the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego in Daniel 3. When they were literally going through the fire, they were there to support each other. And Jesus himself walked through the fire with them.

The result? They all came forth as gold.

And so will we.

Categories
Proverbs Devotionals

God’s loyalty and faithfulness

Iniquity is atoned for by loyalty and faithfulness,
and one turns from evil by the fear of the Lord. (Proverbs 16:6)

That first line made me think, “By whose loyalty and faithfulness is our sin atoned for?”

Is it by ours?

We’re in bad shape if it is.

After all, how loyal is our love for God? And how faithful are we to him?

But it is because of God’s loyalty and faithfulness to us when we were disloyal and unfaithful to him that our sin is atoned for.

When we were still sinners, Christ died for us. (Romans 5:8)

We were facing the Father’s wrath because of our sin and deserving of death. (14)

But by dying on the cross, Jesus appeased the Father’s wrath. And now, when the Father sees us, his face lights up. And his favor toward us is like a cloud with spring rain. (15)

Through Jesus, we see God’s loyalty and faithfulness, or as John translates those words, we see God’s grace and truth. (John 1:17)

So let’s meditate on these things today. Meditate on God’s grace and truth.

Meditate on his loyalty and faithfulness to us. Meditate on the favor we have received because of what Jesus did for us.

And let us stand in awe of God and rejoice in his goodness to us.

Categories
Proverbs Devotionals

How God sees us

As I was reading today’s passage, I was thinking about the kind of relationship we have with God.

Solomon wrote,

The eyes of the Lord are everywhere,
observing the wicked and the good. (Proverbs 15:3)

And again,

Sheol and Abaddon lie open before the Lord—
how much more, human hearts. (11)

I think for a lot of people, those are kind of scary words. Our hearts, our lives are open books to God. We can hide nothing from him. He knows all the ugliness that is there and which we try so desperately to hide.

But because of Jesus, we don’t need to be afraid of God’s searching eyes. We welcome them. We rejoice in them.

Why? Because we are God’s beloved children. Jesus has already paid the penalty for our sin on the cross.

We are not “the righteous” because we are perfect people.

We are not “the righteous” because we are better than others.

We are “the righteous” because the Father clothes us with Jesus’ righteousness.

And because of Jesus’ righteousness, the Father accepts us and delights in us. (8)

So with hearts filled with joy, let us pray with David,

Search me, God, and know my heart;
test me and know my concerns.

See if there is any offensive way in me;
lead me in the everlasting way. (Psalm 139:23-24)

Categories
Proverbs Devotionals

Fearing the Lord

The fear of the Lord is a fountain of life,
turning people away from the snares of death. (Proverbs 14:27)

As I read that this morning I couldn’t help but think of something similar Solomon said a chapter earlier.

A wise person’s instruction is a fountain of life,
turning people away from the snares of death. (13:14)

What does it mean to fear God? Part of what it means is to listen to his word and obey it.

How often, though, do we act as if we know better than God? We look at his word, and say, “I don’t agree with this. This way of thinking is outdated.”

But as Solomon said,

There is a way that seems right to a person,
but its end is the way to death. (14:12)

Satan is a dishonest witness. He is the father of lies. The world around us is buying his lies and is trying to get us to buy them too.

But we can’t afford to listen to them when they speak contrary to God’s word.

Jesus, on the other hand, is a true and faithful witness. He never lies. More, his words of wisdom turn us away from the snares of death and give us life. (Proverbs 14:5, 25, Revelation 3:14)

In fact, it is because of his guilt offering offered on the cross for our sins, that we now are accepted by our Heavenly Father. (Leviticus 5:6; Proverbs 14:9)

So let us fear God, trusting and obeying him. And let us teach our children to do the same so that they may find strong confidence in him too. (14:26)

God is a fountain of life. Let us fear him and drink in his words of life every day.

Categories
Proverbs Devotionals

When vexed

I like how the ESV puts verse 16 in today’s reading.

The vexation of a fool is known at once… (Proverbs 12:16)

To be honest, I was feeling a bit “vexed” at work today because of a lack of communication which has always been an issue, but which particularly surfaced in the last couple of days.

And that “vexation” snuck out into my words and actions.

I’m not saying I completely lost my temper or anything, but I think my frustration was pretty clear to my coworker.

Not ten minutes later, I was reading this verse and having a short conversation with God.

I had good reason to be vexed. But that didn’t make the way I expressed it right.

I wonder how often I act the “fool” when I’m frustrated. How quickly do I let it show on my face, or in a sigh, or in my words?

Lord, grant me patience, especially when I’m feeling frustrated. Let me not act the fool.

Rather, let me be filled with grace, mercy, and patience…the very same grace, mercy, and patience you show me every day.

Categories
Proverbs Devotionals

Being refreshed

…whoever refreshes others will be refreshed. (Proverbs 11:25)

It’s very easy in these difficult times to become self-centered because of our own problems. We say, “I’m the one that needs to be refreshed.”

But often times that refreshment comes when we look outside of ourselves and bless others. By refreshing others, we ourselves feel refreshed.

And often times, what we give comes back to us. When we refresh others, they in turn refresh us.

But we must never forget that our main source of refreshment is found in God. If we are not refreshed by him, we will have little to give others.

It is one major reason why it’s important to spend time with him every day.

Jesus did so. (Mark 1:35, 6:45-46)

How much more do we need to do so?

So two questions to think about today:

  1. Am I spending the time I need to be refreshed by God?
  2. Who does God want me to refresh today?
Categories
Proverbs Devotionals

How will they remember

Lord, how will people remember me when I’m gone? (Proverbs 10:7)

Will they remember me as one who lived with integrity? (9)

Will they remember me as one whose lips were a fountain of life? As someone whose words were pure silver and fed many? (11, 20-21)

Will they remember me as a person of grace and mercy? (12)

Will they remember me as a person who followed your instruction and accepted your correction? (17)

Will they remember me as a person who feared you? (27)

Will they remember me as a person filled with hope and joy? (28)

That’s the type of person I want to be. To my wife. To my daughter. To my friends. To my coworkers. To all those around me.

How will they remember? I hope when they remember, they see you.

Categories
Proverbs Devotionals

Willing to be corrected

The one who corrects a mocker
will bring abuse on himself;
the one who rebukes the wicked will get hurt.

Don’t rebuke a mocker, or he will hate you;
rebuke the wise, and he will love you.

Instruct the wise, and he will be wiser still;
teach the righteous, and he will learn more. (Proverbs 9:7-9)

It’s easy, I suppose, to look at these verses and merely think about other people’s stubbornness. But what about us?

Are we mockers who hate those who rebuke us?

Or are we people who are wise, loving those who rebuke us? Are we people who, when instructed, become wiser still, always learning more?

To be honest, I can be a very stubborn person. I can think of many times when someone said something to admonish me, and I ignored it, or thought, “That word doesn’t apply to me.”

It usually takes God speaking to me, saying, “Pay attention! That word was for you,” to break through my stubbornness.

Which brings up another point.

As important it is to be open to the correction of others, it’s even more important to be open to correction from God.

And so Solomon says,

The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom,
and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding. (10)

Lord, let me always be open to your correction. Whether it comes through others you send to me, or through your Word, or through your Holy Spirit living in me, give me a heart that is soft and willing to change. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Categories
Proverbs Devotionals

More precious than silver

Lord, your words are more precious than silver, gold, or any other jewel. (Proverbs 8:10-11)

Yours are the words of life. (35)

Yet it is so easy to live life by my own understanding. And so often when I do that, I miss what you say, and harm myself. (36)

Lord, I want to listen at your door every day. Help me to hear your voice. And teach me to think as you do. (9, 34)

In Jesus’ name, amen.

Categories
Proverbs Devotionals

Teaching our children

As I read today’s passage, I couldn’t help thinking that Solomon was recalling what God had told the Israelites in Deuteronomy 11:18-19.

Not only did Solomon treasure God’s word in his heart, he taught his son to do the same.

The question is, do we?

God has given us the responsibility to teach his Word to our children. This isn’t the responsibility of their Sunday school teachers. And it isn’t the responsibility of their teachers at school.

The sad truth is, the morals our children are being taught at school may not always be in line with God’s teaching.

When what their teachers and their friends teach them differs from what God teaches in his Word, do our children know the difference? That’s our responsibility.

Let us not only treasure God’s word in our own hearts. Let us also teach our children to do so as well.

Categories
Proverbs Devotionals

Looking for Jesus in the Old Testament

One thing I always tend to do when I read the Old Testament is look for Jesus.

Why?

Because Jesus himself said he was there. (John 5:39, Luke 24:25-27)

And so whenever I see the combination of the words “steadfast love” and “faithfulness” (ESV), I always, always think of Jesus.

Why? Because these words, which are used to describe God time and again in the Old Testament, are used to describe Jesus in the New Testament.

Specifically, John takes those Hebrew words from the Old Testament and translates them “grace and truth” when he says,

for the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. (John 1:17)

What is God like? He is the God who is full of grace and truth. And he expressed that grace and truth in Jesus.

In today’s passage, Solomon says this,

Let not steadfast love and faithfulness forsake you;
bind them around your neck;
write them on the tablet of your heart.

So you will find favor and good success
in the sight of God and man. (Proverbs 3:3-4, ESV)

Steadfast love and faithfulness, grace and truth characterized Jesus’ life. And as a result, Luke tells us that he found favor with God and man. (Luke 2:52)

So this is my prayer for the day,

Father, as grace and truth characterized Jesus, let it characterize me.

Let your grace and truth shine through me and touch my family, my friends, my coworkers, and everyone I come into contact with today.

Lord Jesus, I want to be like you. In your name I pray, amen.

Categories
Proverbs Devotionals

Our attitude to God’s Word

What is our attitude when we read the Bible?

Do we receive God’s word? Or do we reject those words we don’t like.

Do we treasure up God’s commandments in our hearts? Or do we throw them away as outdated?

Do we listen closely to God’s wisdom? Or do we shut our ears to it?

Do we incline our hearts to understanding? Or do we turn our hearts away from it?

Do we humbly call out to God for his insight? Or are we indifferent to what he has to say?

Do we lift our voice to God, asking for help when we don’t understand his word? Or are we silent in our ignorance?

Do we seek for it like silver? Or do we glance over it like a copper penny?

Do we search for it like hidden treasure? Or do we abandon it like yesterday’s trash.

God wants to give us his wisdom and understanding so that we can live a life of blessing.

The question is: “How much do we desire his wisdom and understanding?”

Lord, as I look at your word every day, open the eyes and ears of my heart. Help me to see, hear, and understand everything you want me to know.

Remove from me a stubborn heart of stone. Give me instead a soft heart that is receptive to you and your word. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Categories
Proverbs Devotionals

Speak to me

O Lord, speak to me.

To fear you is the foundation of all knowledge. So let me never despise your wisdom and your discipline. (Proverbs 1:7)

Instead, when you discipline me, give me a humble spirit to receive that discipline. Give me a heart that responds to your warnings.

And as I turn my face to you, pour your spirit on me and teach me your words. (23)

Give me understanding of the things I read in your Word so that I can understand what you’re saying to me.

There’s so much I still don’t know. I desperately need your wisdom and guidance to live this life. (2-6)

So speak to me, Lord. Speak to me.

In Jesus’ name, amen.

Categories
Psalms Devotionals

His

Psalms

In the Old Testament, God called the Jews to be his special people, and Jerusalem was called the city of God.

But Psalm 87 looks to a future Jerusalem, a heavenly one. (Hebrews 12:22-23)

What had to be amazing to the Jews who read this psalm was that it points to a time when even the Jews’ greatest enemies would be counted among God’s people.

People from Rahab, (i.e. Egypt), Babylon, and Philistia, would become God’s people.

People from Tyre and Cush (i.e. Ethiopia) would also be counted among God’s people.

God will say of them, “They are not outsiders. These people were actually born in my city. They are full-fledged citizens.” (Psalm 87:5-6)

John writes about this in Revelation.

After this I looked, and there was a vast multitude from every nation, tribe, people, and language, which no one could number, standing before the throne and before the Lamb.

They were clothed in white robes with palm branches in their hands. And they cried out in a loud voice:

Salvation belongs to our God,
who is seated on the throne,
and to the Lamb! (Revelation 7:9-10)

So remember who you are.

Who are you?

You are his.

It doesn’t matter if you’re Japanese, American, Australian, Chinese, Korean, or whatever you may be. You were born again into the kingdom of God when you put your trust in Jesus.

Paul puts it this way,

(When you were ‘outsiders’), you were without Christ, excluded from the citizenship of Israel, and foreigners to the covenants of promise, without hope and without God in the world.

But now in Christ Jesus, you who were far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ…

He came and proclaimed the good news of peace to you who were far away and peace to those who were near. For through him we both have access in one Spirit to the Father.

So, then, you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with the saints, and members of God’s household… (Ephesians 2:12-13, 17-19)

So let us always remember who we are and rejoice with all of God’s people, singing,

My whole source of joy is in you. (Psalm 87:7)

Categories
Psalms Devotionals

An undivided heart

Psalms

Teach me your way, Lord,
and I will live by your truth.
Give me an undivided mind to fear your name.

I will praise you with all my heart, Lord my God,
and will honor your name forever.

For your faithful love for me is great,
and you rescue my life from the depths of Sheol. (Psalm 86:11-13)

How often is my heart undivided?

How often is it distracted by my worries and anxieties?

How often is it pulled away by sin and the things of this world?

Lord, your faithful love for me is great. You have rescued my soul from death and hell.

Though I am unfaithful, you are always faithful to me.

So Lord, give me an undivided heart. Take each of my thoughts captive. Take all my worries, every sinful thought, all my affections, and bring them under your rule.

Let my whole heart be yours so that I may worship and honor you every day in everything I do.

In Jesus’ name, amen.

Categories
Psalms Devotionals

The Answer to our cries

Psalms

This psalm was possibly written after the Jews returned from exile in Babylon. As we see in Ezra and Nehemiah, however, they were still struggling with hardship after their return.

And so while the psalmist recognizes God’s mercy to them (1-3), nevertheless, he cries out to God,

“Return to us, God of our salvation, and abandon your displeasure with us.

Will you be angry with us forever? Will you prolong your anger for all generations?

Will you not revive us again so that your people may rejoice in you?

Show us your faithful love, Lord, and give us your salvation.” (Psalm 85:4-7)

So many questions born out of pain. And ultimately, all of them are answered in Jesus.

Because Jesus bore the Father’s wrath on the cross, God will not be angry with us forever. He will revive us again so that we may rejoice in him.

In Jesus, God shows us his faithful love and gives us salvation.

In Jesus, God declares peace to us. (Luke 2:14, Ephesians 2:17)

In Jesus, faithful love (or “grace”) and truth join together (John 1:14, 17)

In Jesus, righteousness and peace embrace. (Hebrews 6:20-7:3)

That’s the hope we have in times when God seems far and we start to doubt his love.

Jesus is our hope. So in these difficult times in which we sometimes doubt, in which we often cry out, let us cling to him as the anchor of our soul. (Hebrews 6:18-20)

Categories
Psalms Devotionals

Because the Father looks on the face of Jesus

Psalms

I truly love this psalm, and I could write many things on it, but today, here were the verses that struck me.

Lord God of Armies, hear my prayer;
listen, God of Jacob.

Consider our shield, God;
look on the face of your anointed one. (Psalm 84:8-9)

In verse 9, the psalmist asks God to consider their shield, and to look on the face of their anointed one.

Both “shield” and “anointed one” refer to the king at that time, but ultimately they look forward to Jesus Christ.

(“Messiah” and “Christ,” by the way, both mean “anointed one,” that is, the one God anoints to be king.)

But anyway, has it ever occurred to you to wonder why God would hear our prayers?

It’s certainly not because we deserve his favor. Rather, it’s because the Father considers our Shield.

He looks on the face of his Anointed One. He looks at what Jesus did on the cross for us. And because of Jesus, he looks on us with favor.

It is because of Jesus, that we can enter the very presence of God.

It is because of Jesus, that we are able to pass through the valley of tears, going from strength to strength.

And it is because of Jesus that one day, we will be home with him.

So let us praise God each day for his glorious grace.

Categories
Psalms Devotionals

Praying for a world hostile to God

Psalms

We live in a world that is hostile to God. They hate the idea that they are under his rule and are answerable to him.

And so Asaph recognizes that though the nations surrounding Israel hated them and wanted to destroy them, the ultimate reason for their hatred of Israel was that they hated God first.

It is a truth that Jesus himself recognized and applied to himself and his disciples. (John 15:18-25)

The day will come, though, when every knee shall bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord. (Philippians 2:10-11)

Some will do it in love and gratitude. Others will do it reluctantly and with hatred.

I think that’s what we see in this psalm.

All the world will one day recognize that God is sovereign over all, including them. (Psalm 83:18)

Some in their shame, will be destroyed, and justly so because of their sin. And so our prayer is that for those who refuse to repent, God will bring justice. After all, a God who never brings justice is not a good God.

But more than that, we pray that in their shame, they would repent and seek God’s face. (16)

Why? Because God in his grace showed mercy to us too. And he desires that no one should perish. (Ezekiel 33:11; 1 Timothy 2:3-4)

So let us pray for this world that is hostile to God. Pray that they would seek his face, and in his grace find him.

May they know that you alone—whose name is the Lord—are the Most High over the whole earth. (Psalm 83:18)

Categories
Psalms Devotionals

Commanded to rejoice

Psalms

Verses 4-5 of Psalm 81 were very interesting to me when I read them.

In verses 1-3, Asaph says things like, “sing aloud,” “shout for joy,” and “raise a song” to God.

Then he gives the reason in verses 4-5. It is a statute, a rule, a decree. One which God gave the Israelites after he rescued them from Egypt.

Why was it important to God that they did this? So that they would remember all he had done to save them. How he had lifted away their burdens, delivered them from slavery to Egypt, and led them through the desert to the promised land.

In the same way, God commands us to rejoice as well.

Rejoice that he has lifted from us our burden of sin and set us free from Satan’s kingdom. Rejoice that he is always with us, leading us to his eternal kingdom.

Why is it so important for us to remember that? So that we will trust him, obey him, and open our mouths wide to his Word (verse 10, see also Ezekiel 3:1-3 and Jeremiah 15:16).

And as we do that, we find his blessing in our lives (16).

How much more would we trust and obey him if we would remember he loves us and desires to bless us.

And how much more would we remember that truth if we remembered what he did to save us and rejoiced in it?

That’s one reason why communion is important. It’s a time to remember and rejoice.

I know in this time of pandemic, many churches haven’t been able to do that. I’m looking forward to remembering and rejoicing with all God’s people in that way again.

Categories
Psalms Devotionals

The One who restores us.

Psalms

Three times we see basically the same prayer repeated.

Restore us, God; make your face shine on us, so that we may be saved. (Psalm 80:3)

Restore us, God of Armies; make your face shine on us, so that we may be saved. (7)

Restore us, Lord, God of Armies; make your face shine on us, so that we may be saved. (19)

Our only hope of salvation is found in God restoring us, turning our hearts to him.

And ultimately, that was accomplished on the cross where verse 17 was fulfilled.

Jesus, the Son of Man, the one who sits at the Father’s right hand, suffered and died for our sin.

The Father’s hand was on Jesus, strengthening him so that he might complete his mission.

And now, because of Jesus’ work, the Father’s face shines on us. He turns our hearts toward himself. And he saves us.

Let us each day rejoice in this awesome grace we have received.

Categories
Psalms Devotionals

Passing our faith on to the next generation

Psalms

This passage is a challenging one for me as a parent, especially, the first seven verses.

Here are questions I’m asking myself.

How often do I tell my daughter all the wonderful things God has done in my life? (Psalm 78:4)

How faithful am I to pass on to her the teachings God has given us in his Word? (5-6)

In my words and in my actions, do I teach her to put her confidence in God and obey him? (7)

Am I willing to share my failures with her so that she won’t make the same mistakes I have? (8)

Lord, help me to pass on these things to my daughter that she might know you, love you, and follow you.

Categories
Psalms Devotionals

Though we don’t see him

Psalms

Your way went through the sea
and your path through the vast water,
but your footprints were unseen.

You led your people like a flock
by the hand of Moses and Aaron. (Psalm 77:19-20)

Throughout the first part of this psalm, Asaph mourns at God’s silence in the midst of his troubles.

That’s what makes these last two verses so striking.

At the Red Sea, God made a way of deliverance for his people. And yet they couldn’t see him. His “footsteps were unseen.” (Exodus 14)

Nevertheless, he was leading them. He had not abandoned them.

There are times when God seems to have abandoned us. Times when he seems silent in our suffering.

But though we cannot see him, though we can’t see his ‘footsteps,’ he is leading us. He is making a way for us.

So let us wait in hope, singing,

God, your way is holy.
What god is great like God?
You are the God who works wonders…(13-14)

Categories
Psalms Devotionals

The One who drank our cup of judgment.

Psalms

God is the Judge:
He brings down one and exalts another.

For there is a cup in the Lord’s hand,
full of wine blended with spices, and he pours from it.

All the wicked of the earth will drink,
draining it to the dregs. (Psalm 75:7-8)

As I read this passage, I think of Revelation 14, where it talks about a very similar theme: God’s judgment on the nations.

It uses the same imagery of God pouring out his cup of wrath on all those who rebel against him. (Revelation 14:9-11)

And that day is indeed coming.

But there was another day when God’s cup of wrath was poured out. It was poured out on a cross 2000 years ago.

It was a cup that Jesus wanted to avoid, but one that Jesus drank for our sake. On the cross, he drank in the undiluted wrath of God.

And because he did so, we no longer have to. Instead, now we sing with the psalmist,

We give thanks to you, God;
we give thanks to you, for your name is near.
People tell about your wondrous works. (1)

Categories
John Devotionals

Though we fail Him

John

As I read this passage this morning, this thought came to me.

How much did Peter feel the immensity of his sin? Of his failure? Of his betrayal?

And yet, as he stood there before Jesus, Jesus didn’t bash him. Jesus didn’t require a kind of penance from him.

Rather He asked as simple question.

“Peter do you love me?”

And as imperfect as Peter’s love was, Jesus accepted it. Then He said, “Follow me.”

More, He commissioned Peter to do His work.

Sometimes we feel overwhelmed by guilt. We are struck by the immensity of our sins and failures. And we wonder how in the world Jesus could ever accept us.

But Jesus asks us a simple question.

“Do you love me?”

And imperfect though our love may be, He accepts it.

Then He says, “Follow me.”

More, He entrusts us with the work of touching people who are just as broken as we are.

So let yourself feel the immensity of your sin.

But after that, let yourself feel the even greater immensity of his grace.

For though your sin may abound, God’s grace abounds far, far more. (Romans 5:20)

Categories
Psalms Devotionals

Resetting our sights

Psalms

It can be easy at times to lose perspective. To lose sight of what is true.

Three times, Asaph uses the word “indeed.”

Twice, Asaph uses it with correct perspective.

God is indeed good to Israel, to the pure in heart. (Psalm 73:1)

And,

Indeed, you put [the wicked] in slippery places; you make them fall into ruin. (18)

But in between is another “indeed” that is hidden in the English translation.

Asaph says, “Indeed I purified my heart and washed my hands in innocence for nothing.” (13)

That is especially striking when you look at verse 1 where he said God is good to the pure in heart.

But in seeing the prosperity of the wicked, he lost perspective. And in the process, he became bitter and foolish. (21-22)

How often does the same happen to us? Truth gets twisted because of what we see around us. Whether it’s the evil on society, or the troubles we have in our own lives.

The result?

We become bitter. We entertain foolish thoughts.

How do we regain perspective? We find the answer in verse 17.

Reenter God’s sanctuary. Come into God’s presence and gaze upon him. Listen to him. Worship him.

Only then, will you start to see things rightly again.

You don’t need to go to church to do this. You are his sanctuary. He dwells in you.

So wherever you are, quiet your heart before him and enter his presence. Put aside your smartphone. Turn off the internet and your TV. And come before him with an open Bible and an open heart.

As a start, try meditating on the final verses of this psalm from verses 21-28.

Think on them. Pray them. And let God correct your perspective.

God is indeed good…

Categories
Psalms Devotionals

The King we place our hope in

Psalms

I think we all long for good leaders.

Leaders that are just.

Leaders that help the helpless.

Leaders under whom the righteous prosper.

Solomon prayed to be such a leader in this psalm.

And while in some ways he was a good king, in others, he wasn’t. (1 Kings 11:4-8, 12:4).

Ultimately, Solomon’s prayer wasn’t fulfilled in himself or in any other king or leader. It will only be fulfilled when Jesus returns and sets up his kingdom.

On that day, he will “rule from sea to sea, and from the Euphrates to the ends of the earth.” (Psalm 72:8)

All nations will be blessed by him and call him blessed, and the whole earth will be filled with his glory. (17, 19)

So if you read the news and are frustrated by our political leaders, pray for them.

But remember, our hope is not in them.

It is in God who “alone does wonders.” (18)

Jesus promises us,

I am coming soon. (Revelation 22:20)

So each day, let us look up to him in hope, praying,

Amen! Come, Lord Jesus! (Revelation 22:20b)

Categories
Psalms Devotionals

When God allows hard times

Psalms

You caused me to experience
many troubles and misfortunes… (Psalm 71:20a)

That seems a little cruel doesn’t it?

God causes us to experience many troubles and misfortunes?

Yes, he does.

This is not to say that God actively wields a bat against us.

Many times, the troubles and misfortunes we face are of our own making. Sometimes, they are the results of others’ actions. And other times, they are the result of living in a broken world.

God could, I suppose, actively intervene and keep those troubles and misfortunes from us. And by his grace, he sometimes does.

I would dare say there are many troubles or misfortunes that God in his grace has protected us from that we are totally unaware of.

But he does allow us to experience troubles and misfortunes in our lives.

Why? Because God is cruel? Because he hates us?

No.

Rather, as David says,

…but you will revive me again. You will bring me up again, even from the depths of the earth. (20b)

Through our troubles, we learn to lean on him. (6)

We learn to hope in him. (14)

And as he raises us up, we learn that he is indeed good. (16-17)

We stand in awe of him and cry out with David,

 Your righteousness reaches the heights, God, you who have done great things; God, who is like you? (19)

But as you go through your trials, remember one more thing. Jesus knows what it means to endure suffering too.

The writer of Hebrews says,

For in bringing many sons and daughters to glory, it was entirely appropriate that God—for whom and through whom all things exist—should make the pioneer of their salvation perfect through sufferings…

[Jesus] had to be like his brothers and sisters in every way, so that he could become a merciful and faithful high priest in matters pertaining to God, to make atonement, for the sins of the people. (Hebrews 2:10, 17)

Yes, God causes us to go through suffering. But he caused his Son to go through it first. And because of that, the writer of Hebrews can tell us,

For since he himself has suffered when he was tempted (or “tested”, the word is the same in Greek), [Jesus] is able to help those who are tempted (“tested”). (Hebrews 2:18)

Categories
Psalms Devotionals

Day after day

Psalms

Day after day he bears our burdens. (Psalm 68:19)

I wonder how often we consider this.

How much does God do for us that we don’t even notice?

Instead, in the midst of our troubles, we think God has abandoned us.

But God never abandons us. Day after day, he bears our burdens.

And of course, on the cross, Jesus bore our greatest burden.

So in our darkest times, when the weight of the world seems to be crushing us, let us cry out with David,

Blessed be the Lord!
Day after day he bears our burdens;
God is our salvation. (19)

Categories
Psalms Devotionals

As we face a new season

Psalms

As we face new seasons in our lives, it is natural, I think, to pray for God’s blessing. And that’s what David prays for here, using the prayer of blessing found in Numbers 6:24-27.

I myself am facing a new season as I will start teaching in junior high schools for the first time in 7 years. So I pray for God’s blessing on me as I do that.

But let us remember that our prayers for blessing are not to be purely self-centered. Rather, we pray for God’s blessing,

that your way may be known on earth,
your salvation among all nations. (Psalm 67:2)

Our desire is that all people will see God’s hand on us, and that they will desire that for themselves.

We pray for the day when they too will fear and praise God and know his salvation and blessing in their lives.

So as you face a new season in your life, don’t just pray for God’s blessing in your own life. Pray that through you, people may know God’s way and find his salvation in their lives.

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Ephesians Devotionals

Receiving our salvation from the hand of God

Ephesians

I found something interesting as I looked at this passage, specifically in verse 17. Paul says,

Take the helmet of salvation… (Ephesians 6:17)

The word “take” there is an unusual one in that most times it is translated in the Bible “receive.” The picture is of a soldier receiving his helmet from his servant and putting it on.

It is important to remember that our salvation is not something we make, or work for, or earn. It is something we receive from the hand of God.

Many times Satan will direct arrows at our minds saying, “You’re not worthy of salvation.”

But we can say to him boldly, “That’s right. But God has given it to me by his grace. Jesus took on the form of a servant, went to the cross, and paid for my sin. And now by his hand, I have received my salvation.”

Let us always rejoice in that truth, and stand firm in it as we face our Accuser.

Then I heard a loud voice in heaven say, “The salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God and the authority of his Christ have now come, because the accuser of our brothers and sisters, who accuses them before our God day and night, has been thrown down.” (Revelation 12:10)

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Ephesians Devotionals

Because we are

Ephesians

Paul’s words strike me.

Because you are beloved children of God, imitate your Daddy.

Because you are saints, stay away from sexual sin, greed, and impure words.

Because you are children of light, live that way.

Notice what Paul doesn’t say.

He doesn’t say, “If you want God to love you and make you his child, imitate him.”

Nor does he say, “If you want to become a saint, stay away from sexual sin, greed, and impure words.”

Nor does he say, “Become children of light.”

Rather, we are already beloved children of God.

We are already saints.

We are already children of light.

All Paul is saying is, “Live up to your identity.”

Because you are a beloved child of God, because you are a saint, because you are a child of light, live that way.

And when we fail, know that the grace of God is there to pick us up.

But remember, we don’t need to strive to become children of God, saints, or children of light.

By his grace, we are already these things.

And so by his grace, let us live that way each day.

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Ephesians Devotionals

Why we cannot follow this world

Ephesians

We live in a time when we as Christians are urged to follow the thinking of the world, particularly when it comes to moral issues.

We are urged to compromise on what the Bible teaches and to get on “the right side of history.”

But that is something we dare not do.

Why?

Look at how Paul describes this world.

Their thoughts are futile. (Ephesians 4:17)

They have hearts hardened and calloused against God.

Because of that, their understanding has become darkened and they are excluded from the life of God. (18-19)

They are deceived by their own desires. They actually think that what is evil in God’s sight is good. They actually celebrate what God calls evil.

The result? Their lives have become corrupted, and they are headed for destruction. (22)

And so Paul charges us: “Don’t be like them.”

Rather, we must put off their way of thinking and put on our new self, “one created according to God’s likeness in righteousness and purity of the truth.” (24)

So when you are tempted to bend the teaching of Scripture to match the teaching of this world, remind yourself of the true situation of the people of this world.

Pray for them.

Be light to them.

But do not be like them.

Rather be like our Savior, who loves us and gave his life on a cross so that we might find true life.

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Ephesians Devotionals

Never good enough?

Ephesians

How Paul saw himself is really interesting to me.

We often hear how important it is to have a healthy self-esteem.

But think about how Paul saw himself.

In I Corinthians 15:9, he called himself “the least of all the apostles.”

In verse 8 of today’s passage, he goes beyond that, calling him the “least of all  the saints” (that is, the least of all God’s people).

In 1 Timothy 1:15, he goes even further, calling himself “the worst of all sinners.”

Note that Paul doesn’t say, “I was the least of all the apostles and the saints” or “I was the worst of all sinners.” He says, “I am the least. I am the worst.”

I can imagine many people today telling Paul, “Don’t say that about yourself! You need to have a positive self-esteem!”

And yet, it was that attitude that caused Paul to stand so amazed at the grace he had received. Every day, he looked at that grace and wondered at it. Every time he thought about it, it brought tears to his eyes.

He wondered at the free access he had to his heavenly Father.

He wondered at the privilege he had to share the gospel with others.

And he rejoiced.

Do you feel you’re never good enough as a Christian?

It’s true. You aren’t. Neither am I.

But don’t be ashamed of it.

Rather let your unworthiness cause you to turn your eyes to God’s grace and rejoice at what you have received: Forgiveness. Free access to God. Opportunities to touch people for him. And an eternal inheritance.

I pray that you, being rooted and firmly established in love, may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the length and width, height and depth of God’s love, and to know Christ’s love that surpasses knowledge, so that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. (Ephesians 3:17-19)

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Ephesians Devotionals

God’s kind intention

Ephesians

As I was reading Ephesians 1, one word caught my attention. In Greek, it’s the word, “eudokia.” It’s found in verses 5 and 9, and is translated “good pleasure” in the CSB and “kind intention” in the NASB.

The idea behind it is that God has a good purpose for us. And behind that purpose are God’s kind intentions toward us. It pleases God greatly to do good to us.

Have you ever thought about that? God loves to do good to us. It gives him pleasure to do so.

And that’s the reason for all the spiritual blessings God gives us in Christ.

In his love, he chose us before the creation of this world to be holy and blameless.

He predestined us and adopted us as his children.

In Jesus, he has lavished his grace upon us, pouring it into our lives.

Through Jesus’ blood, we have redemption, the forgiveness of sin.

In him, we have a heavenly inheritance.

Why? Because God has kind intentions toward us. Because it gives him pleasure to do so.

So whatever struggles you may be going through today, remember that.

Look to the cross. Remember the grace you have been given. And remind yourself:

“God has kind intentions toward me.”

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Colossians Devotionals

A heart of gratitude

Colossians

I know I wrote about having a thankful heart on Monday, but to Paul, this seems to be an important theme. And if he thinks it’s important, so should we.

How important is thankfulness to Paul? So important that he talks about it three times in three verses.

And let the peace of Christ, to which you were also called in one body, rule your hearts. And be thankful.

Let the word of Christ dwell richly among you, in all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another through psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts.

And whatever you do, in word or in deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. (Colossians 3:15-17)

If we have grateful hearts, it leads to peace in the church. After all, if our hearts are full of thanksgiving, particularly at the grace we have received from God, there isn’t much room for complaining about others for their failings.

If we have grateful hearts, Christ’s words come naturally flowing out of our lips in psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs.

If we have grateful hearts, it shows not only in our singing, but in every word that we say and everything that we do. Our whole life becomes a sacrifice of praise to God, as we seek to please the one who loved us and saved us.

May our hearts always be characterized by gratitude towards God.

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Philippians Devotionals

With thanksgiving

PhilippiansHope

Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!

…The Lord is near. Don’t worry about anything, but in everything, through prayer and petition with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:4-7)

“With.”

A tiny little word, but one that made me think this morning.

When, we’re feeling anxious, prayers and petitions come pouring out of our mouths quite readily.

Paul doesn’t say this shouldn’t be the case. Quite the contrary. He tells us to present our all our requests to God through prayers and petitions.

But he adds that one little word. Two, really.

“With thanksgiving.”

Along with our prayers and petitions should also come words of thanksgiving.

It all goes back to verse 4.

Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!

Even when we’re feeling anxious, rejoice! Give thanks.

Rejoice in the Lord. Rejoice in his goodness. Rejoice in his grace. Rejoice in the forgiveness we have through the cross. Rejoice in the fact that God now accepts us as his beloved children.

If I were to paraphrase verse 6, it would be this way:

“Don’t worry about anything, but in everything, through prayer and petition, not forgetting thanksgiving, but rejoicing in Him and his goodness, present your requests to God.”

And as we do, in the midst of our anxieties and trials, “the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” (7)

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Philippians Devotionals

Christ took hold of me

PhilippiansHope

Christ took hold of me.

The Messiah took hold of me.

Think about those words for a minute.

For the Jews, the Christ, the Messiah was to be this Savior, this King, to restore all Israel.

I doubt that Paul as he grew up ever thought he would say, “The Messiah took hold of me.”

That would be too personal. No way did Paul ever think the Messiah would have that personal a relationship with him.

But that’s what happened on the Damascus road. At a time when Paul hated Jesus, when he was trying to destroy Christ’s church, Jesus grabbed a hold of him and turned his world upside-down.

And now, Paul’s whole life was centered around Christ. Look at how many times he refers to Christ in just 5 verses from verses 7-11. I count ten times.

In what way did Jesus grab hold of your life? Do you stand in wonder of it as Paul did?

It is that wonder that caused Paul to pursue Jesus as he did, to strive to take hold of Jesus and Jesus’ plan for him.

Honestly, I don’t think on it enough. And perhaps that’s why I don’t pursue him nearly as much as I should.

Think about it: “Christ took hold of me.”

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Philippians Devotionals

Working out our own salvation

PhilippiansHope

It can be easy sometimes to criticize other Christians. I know I do.

Sometimes we look at the people we disciple or the people in our church. Sometimes we look at Christians in the news. We see the things they do, and we get angry or frustrated with them.

But Paul says,

…work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. (Philippians 2:12)

Paul doesn’t tell us to work out other people’s salvation. He tells us to work out our own. And we are to do so with fear and trembling. Why?

Because if we are honest with ourselves, the only reason we can stand before God is because of his grace.

That should cause us to tremble before God, in fear and thanksgiving. Fear, because we know that we deserve nothing but judgment from him. Thanksgiving because he instead shows us grace.

And as we tremble before God’s grace, it makes us that much more inclined to show grace and patience to the Christians around us.

So rather than criticizing other Christians, let us look at ourselves. Tremble in fear. Tremble in gratitude.

And know that in us and the Christians around us, God is working in us to will and to act according to his good purpose. None of us are complete or perfect yet. But as Paul said in chapter 1,

I am sure of this, that he who started a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. (Philippians 1:6)

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Philippians Devotionals

A prayer for those facing a new season

PhilippiansHope

Here in Japan, spring is a new season for people in more than one way. April is not only a turning of the weather, but a time when students start a new school year and people start new jobs or change jobs.

For me personally, I’m facing change as well.

After having worked at the same high school for seven years, I will start working at three junior high schools come this April. A big change to be sure.

And so as I read Philippians 1, Paul’s prayer touched my heart.

It’s a prayer I pray for myself as I head into this new season,

And for those of you who are heading into a new season of life, I pray for you as well, especially those of you facing big decisions.

And I pray this: that your love will keep on growing in knowledge and every kind of discernment, so that you may approve the things that are superior and may be pure and blameless in the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ to the glory and praise of God. (Philipians 1:9-11)

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Titus Devotionals

Remembering grace

Titus

In these volatile times we live in, times of cancel culture, times of twitter wars, times of people talking past each other at best, screaming at each at worst, it can be easy to respond to the people of this world by fighting fire with fire.

But Paul told Titus to remind the believers,

to slander no one, to avoid fighting, and to be kind, always showing gentleness to all people. (Titus 3:2)

Why?

For we too were once foolish, disobedient, deceived, enslaved by various passions and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, detesting one another. (3)

In other words, we were once just like them.

But when the kindness of God our Savior and his love for mankind appeared, he saved us—not by works of righteousness that we had done, but according to his mercy—through the washing of regeneration and renewal by the Holy Spirit.

He poured out his Spirit on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Savior so that, having been justified by his grace, we may become heirs with the hope of eternal life. (4-7)

It is so important to remember God’s grace to us. Just as he poured out grace and mercy upon us, we are to do so to the people around us, in hope that they may one day repent and become heirs of eternal life along with us.

And so rather than tearing into people, we are to be dispensers of God’s grace. No less than three times in this chapter, Paul tells us we are to devote ourselves to good works (1, 8, 14).

Specifically in verse 14, he says,

Let our people learn to devote themselves to good works for pressing needs, so that they will not be unfruitful.

God has called us to be fruitful in our faith, touching those who are hurting. Slandering, fighting, and tearing others down is not being fruitful.

In Paul’s words, such things are “unprofitable and worthless.” (9)

Is fighting for truth important? Absolutely.

But truth alone will not win a person over. They need to see the love of Christ in us as well.

And the best way to do that is to reach out to them where they have pressing needs.

Grace and truth came through Jesus. (John 1:14, 17).

Grace and truth should flow through us as well.

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Titus Devotionals

Shaped by hope

Titus

As Christians, our lives are to be shaped by hope.

Have you ever considered that?

The apostles did.

For them, hope was not some airy-fairy thing of no practical import to our lives.

Rather, hope itself shaped how they lived.

John talked about it in his first letter. He said,

We know that when he appears, we will be like him because we will see him as he is.

And everyone who has this hope in him purifies himself just as he is pure. (1 John 3:2-3)

And here in this letter, Paul essentially says the same thing to Titus.

For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people, training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age, waiting for our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to purify for himself a people for his own possession who are zealous for good works. (Titus 2:11-14, ESV)

What is it that motivates us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives? What motivates us to be zealous for good works?

Hope.

Hope that one day Jesus will return and all things will be made new.

Hope that one day all evil will be wiped out, and that we will become like the one who loves us and redeemed us, choosing us to be his own people.

And unlike a lot of things we “hope for” in life, this hope is certain.

How often do you reflect on the hope we have in Christ? How much does it shape how you think and live each day?

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2 Timothy Devotionals

My life verses

2 Timothy

As a teacher, I consider 2 Timothy 3:16-4:8 to be my life verses.

In particular, I constantly feel the weight of Paul’s words in verses 1-5 of chapter 4.

One day I will stand before God and before Jesus Christ to be judged. Not concerning my salvation, but my faithfulness in doing my ministry.

Was I faithful in preaching his word faithfully?

In a world where people are turning aside from truth and are choosing teachers who will only tell them what they want to hear, did I preach the whole counsel of God? (Acts 20:26-27)

Or did I only teach the “easy things,” the things people like to hear?

Did I teach it whether it was “convenient” to do so or not? Whether people liked what God said or not?

Those questions have shaped my entire teaching ministry.

One thing that blogging through the whole Bible forced me to do, was to make sure I didn’t avoid the “difficult” issues and the “difficult” passages. To make sure God’s people know all that he has said. Hopefully, I achieved that.

Have I been completely faithful in doing this throughout my teaching ministry? I can look at times when I probably wasn’t. I can’t do anything about that. All I can do is to control what I do from here on out.

The thing is, though, we all have the responsibility of bringing the Word of God to the people around us. We will stand before God some day and answer to him for what we told people and what we didn’t tell them.

And so I repeat the words of Paul to you.

I solemnly charge you before God and Christ Jesus, who is going to judge the living and the dead, and because of his appearing and his kingdom:

Preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; correct, rebuke, and encourage with great patience and teaching. (2 Timothy 4:1-2)

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2 Timothy Devotionals

Holding to truth

2 Timothy

We live in, as Paul would put it, “hard times.” (2 Timothy 3:1)

We live in times when more and more people try to substitute God’s truth with their own version of it.

The result is not good to say the least. (2 Timothy 3:2-5)

Even worse, the time will come when people will persecute us if we don’t accept “their truth.” The pressure for us to accept “truth” contrary to God’s truth will be immense.

In America, Christians are already facing that pressure, especially concerning LGBTQ+ issues. Some Christians are already buckling under that pressure. Just today, I read in the news of one Christian adoption agency that did just that.

But as Paul said, though the people around us lie and are themselves deceived, we are to hold to the truth, God’s truth that we have received.

God’s words are breathed out of his very mouth and bring salvation and life.

The “truth” this world is proclaiming brings death.

But remember that those holding to these lies are not our enemies. They are people that Christ died for. And so let’s be sure to take to heart the words we read yesterday.

The Lord’s servant must not quarrel, but must be gentle to everyone, able to teach, and patient, instructing his opponents with gentleness.

Perhaps God will grant them repentance leading them to the knowledge of the truth.

Then they may come to their senses and escape the trap of the devil, who has taken them captive to do his will. (2:24-26)

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2 Timothy Devotionals

Reflecting on God’s word

2 Timothy

One of the dangers of making our Bible reading a mere “habit” is that we rush the reading, and then promptly forget what we read. We think, “Well, I’ve fulfilled my Christian duty for the day.” 

I will admit it is tempting for me to just skim over a passage, thinking, “I know this passage already. There’s nothing new here for me to learn.”

But Paul told Timothy, 

Consider what I say, for the Lord will give you understanding in everything. (2 Timothy 2:7)

Consider. Think on. Reflect on. 

And all the while praying, “Lord give me understanding. What are you trying to say to me today?” 

I can’t tell you the number of times I’ve been blessed because I pushed aside the temptation to simply skim over a passage and instead took the time to reflect on it. 

So let’s make a practice of doing that, starting today. Resist the temptation to simply rush through your Bible reading today. There are a lot of treasures in today’s passage if you’ll just reflect on it. 

Take time to read and reread. Think on what is written. And give God the opportunity to speak to you.

Let anyone who has ears to hear listen to what the Spirit says…(Revelation 2:29)

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Exodus Devotions

Entering God’s rest

Tell the Israelites: You must observe my Sabbaths, for it is a sign between me and you throughout your generations, so that you will know that I am the LORD who consecrates you.

Observe the Sabbath, for it is holy to you.

Whoever profanes it must be put to death. If anyone does work on it, that person must be cut off from his people. (Exodus 31:13-14)

The penalties for breaking the Sabbath were stiff according to God’s law. Why?

The major reason was that it was a constant reminder to the people that they belonged to God. That he had consecrated them for himself.

Another word for “consecrated” is “sanctified.” Both words have the idea of being made pure and set apart for God.

But what strikes me is that God tells them, “I am the one who consecrates you. I am the one that purifies you. I am the one that sets you apart for myself.

“It’s not what you do that makes you holy in my sight. It’s what I do.”

The writer of Hebrews carries that idea over to us as believers.

He talks about another Sabbath rest, the one that the Old Testament Sabbath and the “rest” that came from entering the Promised Land pointed to. (Joshua 21:44, Hebrews 4:1-11)

Just as God made the original creation by his own power and invited his people to join in his rest, Jesus has made us new creations by his own work on the cross and invites us to join in his rest.

We no longer try to establish our own righteousness. (Romans 10:3)

Rather we rest in what Jesus has done for us. He’s the one who consecrates us and makes us holy in his sight through his work on the cross, not us.

Anyone, then, who breaks the Sabbath rest established by Jesus by trying to establish his own righteousness is cut off from God’s people and suffers eternal death.

So let us heed the words of the author of Hebrews.

Therefore, a Sabbath rest remains for God’s people. For the person who has entered his rest has rested from his own works, just as God did from his.

Let us, then, make every effort to enter that rest… (Hebrews 4:9-11)

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Psalms Devotionals

The wonder of forgiveness and grace

Psalms

God’s forgiveness and grace never cease to amaze me.

It apparently never ceased to amaze David either.

He said,

Iniquities overwhelm me;
only you can atone for our rebellions. (Psalm 65:3)

I wonder if David was thinking of his own sins of adultery and murder as he wrote this.

The guilt we feel because of our sins can be overwhelming. So can the consequences we reap from them.

There is nothing we can do to “make up” for our sins. Nothing we can do to atone for them. But through Jesus, God does. And he forgives our sin.

Not only that, God chooses us as his children and he draws us close to himself. He gives us blessings that we do not deserve.

And so David says,

How happy is the one you choose
and bring near to live in your courts!

We will be satisfied with the goodness of your house,
the holiness of your temple.

You answer us in righteousness,
with awe-inspiring works,
God of our salvation,
the hope of all the ends of the earth
and of the distant seas. (4-5)

That’s the wonder of forgiveness and grace. Let us reflect on and rejoice in that grace each day.

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Psalms Devotionals

You are my God

Psalms

This morning, I was reflecting on David’s words, “You are my God.”

What did he mean by that?

Ultimately, I think it comes down to this. He was saying, “I have seen your steadfast love in my life.”

Despite all his troubles, despite being on the run in the wilderness as he wrote this psalm, he could say, “I have seen your steadfast love in my life.”

It’s one thing to say, “I believe in God.”

Or to say, “God’s power and glory are breathtaking.”

It’s another thing to be able to look back on your life, and say, “I have actually seen God’s steadfast love in my life.”

To really be able to look at points in your life and be able to say, “God showed his steadfast love to me in this way, in this way, and in that way.”

It is through those experiences that we say with confidence, “God is my God! And I am his.”

And it’s because of that confidence, we “follow hard” after God. (Psalm 63:8)

We thirst for more of him in our lives. (1)

We lift up our hands in praise to him. (3-4)

And our hearts turn to him even as we go to sleep at night. (6)

So let us take some time and meditate on those words, “You are my God.”

In what ways has God shown steadfast love to you? What times in your life can you point to?

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Psalms Devotionals

Things to meditate on

Psalms

Just looking at this Psalm, here were some observations I made this morning.

In verses 1-2, David simply states as fact,

For God alone my soul waits in silence;
from him comes my salvation.

He alone is my rock and my salvation,
my fortress; I shall not be greatly shaken. (Psalm 62:1-2, ESV)

But in verses 5-6, he is exhorting and reminding himself,

For God alone, O my soul, wait in silence,
for my hope is from him.

He only is my rock and my salvation,
my fortress; I shall not be shaken. (ESV)

There are times we simply have to remind ourselves and exhort ourselves to believe what we know is true.

In verse 2, he says, “I shall not be greatly shaken,” almost sounding as if he’s saying, “I may wobble a bit at times, but I will not fall.”

But in verse 6, he exhorts himself, “I will not be shaken at all.”

In verses 1 and 5, he talks about waiting for God silently.

In verse 8, he talks about pouring out our hearts to him.

We need both in prayer. We see David pouring out his heart in verses 3-4, complaining about his enemies.

But in verse 7-8, he confidently waits in silence before God.

In verses 1 and 5, “salvation” and “hope” are used as synonyms. Our hope, our salvation, is from God alone.

Finally, two things to meditate on that bring the whole psalm together.

  1. Power belongs to God.
  2. God is a God of steadfast love.

God is not a God who is loving toward us but powerless to help us.

Neither is he a God who is powerful but doesn’t care two cents for us.

Rather he is a God who is powerful to save.

And he is a God whose faithful love caused him to send his Son for us.

Even if you forget everything else, let’s meditate on those two truths today.

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Psalms Devotionals

Made to see hard things

Psalms

You have made your people see hard things;
you have given us wine to drink that made us stagger. (Psalm 60:3, ESV)

Those words struck me today. Sometimes God does make his people see hard things, things that make us stagger.

I’ve seen my father go blind in an accident. Years later, I saw his life fading away in a hospital.

I have seen the company I work at go bankrupt forcing me into unemployment for nine months.

I have seen friends die before their time.

And of course, we have all seen the effects of Covid-19.

And yet David says,

You have set up a banner for those who fear you,
that they may flee to it from the bow. (4, ESV)

Those words remind me of Exodus 17:15, where Moses called the Lord Himself, “Our Banner!”

He is the one we run to. He is the one we rally to when are afraid and struggling. And he is the one who brings us salvation.

Suffering and hard times are a part of life. But those times are never in vain for those who love God and who are called according to his purpose. Rather, as Paul said,

…affliction produces endurance, endurance produces proven character, and proven character produces hope.

This hope will not disappoint us, because God’s love has been poured out in our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us. (Romans 5:3-5)

That love was proven to us on the cross (Romans 5:6-8).

So in these times, let us rally to the cross, remembering that Jesus is no longer hanging there, but has conquered death itself. And because of him, we will ultimately find victory! (Psalm 60:12)

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Hebrews Devotionals

Encouraging and exhorting one another

Hebrews

Watch out, brothers and sisters, so that there won’t be in any of you an evil, unbelieving heart that turns away from the living God.

But encourage each other daily, while it is still called today, so that none of you is hardened by sin’s deception. (Hebrews 3:12-13)

I was just thinking today how important it is, especially in these times, to encourage and exhort each other as Christians.

We live in times when moral decay is spreading like gangrene throughout society, and it is easy for we ourselves to start hardening our hearts to what God says about sin.

All you have to do is look at TV programs nowadays and see what is being pushed into our faces as “normal sexual behavior,” whether it is heterosexual or homosexual.

The same can be said for the things the media and society around us call “being on the right side of history.”

But just as dangerous, Christians can look at society and start to lose hope that God is truly in control.

Either way, our faith in God begins to dissipate.

And so the writer of Hebrews tells us to “encourage each other daily…so that none of you is hardened by sin’s deception.”

One of the most important exhortations we can give each other is found in verse 15.

Today, if you hear his voice,
do not harden your hearts as in the rebellion.

The problem with a lot of us, is not that we don’t hear his voice. It’s that we harden our hearts to it. And the more we harden our hearts to his voice, the more difficult it becomes to hear it.

So one of the things we need to encourage each other to do the most is to soak ourselves in God’s truth.

And when God speaks to our hearts, we must encourage each other to not make excuses or to whine or moan as the Israelites did in the desert, but to soften our hearts to him and listen.

As brothers and sisters in Christ, let us make it a point each day to exhort and encourage each other in this way.

Who can you encourage and exhort today?

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Psalms Devotionals

This I know

Psalms

This I know: God is for me. (Psalm 56:9)

For whatever reason, those words resonated with me.

“This I know.”

There is no doubt in my mind.

“God is for me.”

GOD is for me. The Almighty God, the Creator of this universe, my Father, He is for me.

God IS for me. It’s not that he used to be for me, but has now cast me aside. He is for me now.

God is FOR me. He encourages me. He strengthens me. He picks me up when I fall.

God is for ME. Not just for the super-Christians I know. For me. For me who often fails. For me who often sins.

How can I be so certain of this?

He did not even spare his own Son but gave him up for us all. (Romans 8:32)

Because of what Jesus has done, I have been rescued from death and now walk before God in the light of life. (13)

He knows my wanderings into sin. He knows all the struggles I go through in life.

He puts my tears in a bottle.

He has recorded them all.

But one day,

He will wipe away every tear from their eyes. Death will be no more; grief, crying, and pain will be no more, because the previous things have passed away. (Revelation 21:4)

Because of him, I have hope.

He is on my side.

This I know.

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Psalms Devotionals

Three choices

Psalms

David wrote this concerning Doeg, whose actions led to the murder of God’s priests. (I Samuel 22:6-23)

How do we respond when we see the evil that people do in the world? I think we can see the answer in David’s words.

  1. Choose to trust in God’s faithful love toward us. That no matter what happens to us, nothing can separate us from it. (Romans 8:35-39)
  2. Choose to give thanks to him. Thank him that justice will ultimately come. But also remembering to thank him for all that he has done for us in the past, and all that he is doing for us now.
  3. Choose to wait for him, putting our hope in God. He will execute justice in his time. And he will make all things right.

In doing so, we become that olive tree planted in the house of God.

What is an olive tree like? It lives long, provides food, and through its oil brings light and healing.

In the same way, we will be people that endure through the hardest of times, and at the same time provide, light, healing, and spiritual food to a hurting world.

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Psalms Devotionals

If you are willing…

Psalms

David had committed an unspeakable sin. He had murdered a man and taken his wife.

In light of that, verse 7 really is quite stunning.

Purify me with hyssop, and I will be clean;
wash me, and I will be whiter than snow. (Psalm 51:7)

Here David compares his sin with leprosy, something that in that time was incurable and ostracized a person from the presence of God.

(That is, a leprous person could not approach the tabernacle/temple as well as his community. See Leviticus 13:45-46, 14:1-32 and especially verses 6-7, Numbers 5:3-4)

And yet he says with utter confidence, “You can make me clean.”

It reminds me of something a leper once said to Jesus. With the same confidence that David had, he said to Jesus,

Lord, if you are willing, you can make me clean. (Matthew 8:2)

Jesus’ response?

I am willing; be made clean. (Matthew 8:3)

Because of the cross, no matter how terrible our sin, no matter how great our guilt, Jesus can cleanse us. All we have to do is humble ourselves and ask.

And he will make us clean.

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Psalms Devotionals

Thinking on God’s love

Psalms

As I read this psalm this morning, it was verse 9 that arrested my attention.

We have thought on your steadfast love, O God… (Psalm 48:9, ESV)

How often do we take the time to stop and think on, contemplate, and mediate on God’s steadfast love for us?

We often say, “God loves me.” But how often do we reflect on the myriad ways God has shown his love in our own lives?

There was a song I used to sing in church.

Think about his love.
Think about his goodness.
Think about his grace that brought us through.

For as high as the heavens above,
So great is the measure of our Father’s love.
Great is the measure of our Father’s love.

Can I encourage you to do something? Don’t just skim past these words and go on with your day.

Stop.

Think on these things.

In what ways has God shown his faithful love to me?

In what ways has God showed his goodness to me?

Through what trials has God’s grace brought me through?

And as we meditate on these things, let’s not just keep them to ourselves.

Let us instead tell the future generations, our children and all those who come after us,

This God, our God forever and ever—
he will always lead us. (14)

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Psalms Devotionals

Remembering to praise our King

Psalms

We live in a world now where it is so easy to get caught in our worries and complaints.

It is especially in these times that we need to remember to worship God.

That is, in fact, the point of our this whole psalm.

Clap your hands, all you peoples;
shout to God with a jubilant cry. (Psalm 47:1)

And,

Sing praise to God, sing praise;
sing praise to our King, sing praise! (6)

That’s four calls to praise God in just one verse.

Why should we, though? Why praise God?

For the Lord, the Most High, is awe-inspiring,
a great King over the whole earth. (2)

And again,

…for God is King of the whole earth.
God reigns over the nations;
God is seated on his holy throne. (7-8)

When we focus on our problems, we lose perspective. Our problems seem like immovable mountains.

But when worship God and remember who he is, we regain our perspective. And we remember, “He is the King! And he is in control.”

So let us get our eyes off our problems and on to God. And if we do, all our problems will seem but mere shadows in the light of him.

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1 Timothy Devotionals

Because we have hope

1 Timothy

In times like these, it can be easy to get tired of remaining faithful to God and living a godly life.

It is easy to let our consciences get seared (1 Timothy 4:2), and to start giving into sin.

And according to Paul, the Spirit explicitly says some will depart from the faith. (1)

But we have a hope that this world does not have. Our God is alive. And he has not only saved us from our sin, but one day, Jesus will return and make all things new. (10)

This is not just a hope. It is a certainty.

So let us not get weary of doing right. Rather, let us train ourselves in godliness (7), specifically in our speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity. (12)

And let us not neglect our gifts in these times, but instead use them to bless each other, and to touch this world that desperately needs Jesus.

We have hope! Let us live each day in that hope.

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1 Timothy Devotionals

Living as God’s people

1 Timothy

But if I should be delayed, I have written so that you will know how people ought to conduct themselves in God’s household, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and foundation of the truth. (1 Timothy 3:15)

A thought for the day: We the church have been established by God to be the pillar and foundation of truth in a world where truth has been grossly distorted.

But if we don’t live godly lives, who will listen to us?

By God’s grace and strength, let us live lives pleasing to him each day so that his light may shine through us and touch the people around us.

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1 Timothy Devotionals

Praying for our leaders

1 Timothy

First of all, then, I urge that petitions, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for everyone, for kings and all those who are in authority, so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity.

This is good, and it pleases God our Savior… (1 Timothy 2:1-3)

How often do we pray for our political leaders? That’s what Paul calls us to do. What’s more, he says it is pleasing in God’s sight when we do so. 

Note two things. 

Paul doesn’t merely say, “Pray about our leaders.” 

Nor does he say, “Complain about and curse our leaders in your prayers.” 

He says “Pray for them.” 

If your leaders are godly and you like them, that’s easy to do. 

If they aren’t and you don’t, it’s a lot more difficult. 

The interesting thing is this, and it’s my second point: 

Paul wrote this when Nero was Caesar. And whatever you think of Trump or Biden, Nero was a million times worse than either of them. If you doubt me, just look at the history books. 

And yet, Paul said, “Pray for him.” 

How do we pray for ungodly leaders? 

  1. Pray for their salvation. For God “wants everyone to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.” (4)
  2. Pray for wisdom in leading the country. They are mere people. Their position does not suddenly endow them with perfect wisdom in dealing with Covid or the myriad problems our country faces.
  3. Pray for courage to do what is right. That is especially hard when the direction of their party is going against them. 
  4. Pray for God’s restraint. At some point, God will take off all restraints on people’s evil, and then judgment will come. Pray that God in his grace and mercy keeps the restraints in place for as long as possible. (2 Thessalonians 2:6-7, Romans 1:24-32)

Finally, a word: “More praying. Less arguing.” 

As James said, “People’s anger does not lead to the righteous life God wants us to live.” (James 1:20)

It takes away from our witness when we’re hostile to unbelievers. And when we’re fighting with each other, we lose sight of what God is calling us to do in this world: to bring his salvation to people who are lost and dying. 

So let us put aside all our anger and arguments, and lift up holy hands together, praying for and working for the salvation of our nation. (8)

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Genesis Devotions

The grace of God

Genesis

I was just reading this passage this morning, and these were the thoughts that came to mind as I did so.

I am unworthy of all the kindness and faithfulness you have shown your servant…You have said, ‘I will cause you to prosper. (32:10-12)

Jacob said this as an heir of God’s promise to Abraham. But how much more can we say this of ourselves as Abraham’s spiritual heirs by faith?

None of us are worthy of God’s kindness and faithfulness to us. And yet by his grace God is determined to do good to us. (Romans 8:28-32)

For he thought, “I want to appease Esau with the gift that is going ahead of me. After that, I can face him, and perhaps he will forgive me.” (32:20)

Despite God’s grace, how often do we think of God as Jacob thought of Esau? How often do we feel we need to do something to appease him?

And even after attempting to do so, we still harbor some doubt on whether he will forgive us?

As with Esau, however, God needs no appeasing. Because of Jesus’ work on the cross, he is already appeased. And he already thinks favorably toward us.

But Jacob said, “No, please! If I have found favor with you, take this gift from me. For indeed, I have seen your face, and it is like seeing God’s face, since you have accepted me.

Please take my present that was brought to you, because God has been gracious to me and I have everything I need.” So Jacob urged him until he accepted. (33:10-11)

At this point, Jacob realized that Esau had already forgiven him. And so now his attempt at a bribe turns into a gift arising from a grateful heart.

And so with us.

All we give to God is no longer to win his favor but comes from a heart of gratitude for his grace and the fact that in Jesus, we have everything we need.

Each day, let us rest in this incredible, indescribable grace of God. And worship.

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1 Timothy Devotionals

Our Savior. Our hope.

1 Timothy

Who do we look to for help in these difficult times? Where do go for hope?

In America, we have a new president, and I see a lot of people putting their hope in him.

In the New York Times, it talks about increasing numbers of people turning to psychics.

But to Paul, the answer is simple.

God our Savior. Jesus Christ our hope. (1 Timothy 1:1)

Everything and anything else is a shaky foundation.

Politicians will fail us. Psychics will deceive us. The best-intentioned and most powerful of people are powerless to save us.

Only in God is there salvation. Only in Jesus Christ is there hope.

So let us trust in him not only for eternal life. Let us trust him in everything. And worship him.

Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen. (17)

 

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Philemon

Our reputation

Bible

As I reflected on Paul’s words concerning Philemon, I couldn’t help but think about myself.

Paul wrote,

I always thank my God when I mention you in my prayers, because I hear of your love for all the saints and the faith that you have in the Lord Jesus. (Philemon 4-5)

and again,

For I have great joy and encouragement from your love, because the hearts of the saints have been refreshed through you, brother. (7)

I don’t know about you, but I would like that to be my reputation among believers.

I want to be known for the faith I have in Jesus.

I want to be known for my love for our brothers and sisters in Christ.

I want people to be refreshed by me, receiving great joy and encouragement from my love.

That’s the reputation I would like to have. That’s how I would like to be remembered when God takes me home.

I’ve got a long way to go to be the Christian I should be. But by God’s grace I will get there.

And by God’s grace, so will you.

So let us draw near to Jesus each day, striving to become more like the One whose love and grace toward us is immeasurable and beyond all words.

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2 Thessalonians Devotionals

Keep on keeping on

2 Thessalonians

In these difficult times, Paul’s words really struck me.

But as for you, brothers and sisters, do not grow weary in doing good. (2 Thessalonians 3:13)

In these times of pandemic, in these times of fear and anger because of all the evil we see around us, it is easy to just get tired.

To get tired of doing what’s right.

To get tired of doing good, serving the Lord and ministering to others.

To instead become self-centered and idle.

That’s the temptation the Thessalonians faced in the midst of persecution.

But Paul says, “Don’t get weary. Keep on keeping on.”

The key to being able to do this?

May the Lord direct your hearts to God’s love and Christ’s endurance. (5)

Ultimately it’s God’s grace and his faithfulness that allows us to keep on keeping on.

That’s one reason why it’s important to pray for each other in these times.

We pray that the Lord will direct our hearts to God’s faithful love to us. A love that Christ proved by enduring far more than we ever have by going to the cross.

But when we are tired and struggling, it is so easy to lose sight of these things.

So let’s intentionally take the time to encourage each other, reminding each other of God’s faithfulness, and praying for each other as Paul did.

And for you, I pray as well.

May the Lord of peace himself give you peace always in every way. The Lord be with all of you…The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. (16-18)

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2 Thessalonians Devotionals

A prayer

2 Thessalonians

Father, I pray that you will make me worthy of your calling.

By your power fulfill my every desire to do good and my work produced by faith.

I pray this so that the name of the Lord Jesus will be glorified by me, and me by him.

I pray this not according to my own worthiness and goodness. Rather, I pray this according to your grace, Father, and the grace of the Lord Jesus.

And I pray this not only for myself, but for your church, especially in these trying times, so that this world that is hurting and dying may know you.

I love you.

I pray all this in Jesus’ name,

Amen.

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1 Thessalonians Devotionals

Guarding our hearts and minds

1 Thessalonians

Faith, hope, and love. That combination is probably most prominently found in 1 Corinthians 13.

But we also find it here in this passage, in the context of guarding our hearts and minds.

Paul wrote,

But since we belong to the day, let us be sober, having put on the breastplate of faith and love, and for a helmet the hope of salvation. (1 Thessalonians 5:8, ESV)

It’s interesting that Paul talks about the breastplate of faith and love here. In Ephesians, he talks about the breastplate of righteousness (Ephesians 6:14).

Why the change? Perhaps two things. First, our righteousness before God is based not on our works, but on our faith. And second, our righteousness is expressed in love toward God and others. 

As I mentioned earlier this week, we live in troubled times. And if we are to guard our hearts, we cannot afford to lose our faith in God.

Faith that he is good. Faith that he is in control. Faith that he loves us. 

And if we are to guard our hearts and not become angry and bitter at all the evil we see around us, if we are to instead make a difference in this world that is dying because of sin, we need to choose to actively love those that Jesus died for (15).

But it’s important to also put on the hope of our salvation as our helmet to guard our minds.

This doesn’t simply mean rejoicing that we have been saved from our sin. It means rejoicing in the knowledge that Jesus will come again, and that all that is wrong in the world will be made right.

When we see all the evil in the world, we too often forget that. 

Only by putting on the breastplate of faith and love and the helmet of the hope of salvation will we find ourselves able to “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances.” (16-18)

So in these troubled times, I pray that you put on faith, hope, and love, and in so doing, guard your hearts and minds. 

Now may the God of peace himself sanctify you completely, and may your whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.

He who calls you is faithful; he will surely do it…

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. (1 Thessalonians 5:23-24, 28)

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Psalms Devotionals

Guarding our hearts in turbulent times

Psalms

I don’t think there is any doubt that we live in turbulent times.

And if there is one thing that can overwhelm us in such times, it’s anger. I see a lot of anger around me. I see it on social media. I see it from social commentators, both Christian and non-Christian, liberal and conservative.

With all this anger around us, it can be very easy to get swept right along with it and become angry people ourselves. I know I struggle not to give in to it.

Closely associated with that anger is fear. Fear of the future. Fear of what may happen in our country. Fear of what might happen to us. And I believe it is that fear that drives much of our anger.

David knew both feelings. He was being attacked and slandered by his enemies. He knew what it meant to be afraid and angry. And so he cried out to God,

Answer me when I call,
God, who vindicates me.

You freed me from affliction;
be gracious to me and hear my prayer. (Psalm 4:1)

To his enemies, he said,

How long, exalted ones, will my honor be insulted?

How long will you love what is worthless
and pursue a lie? (2)

And all around him, people were saying,

“Who can show us anything good?” (6)

But in the midst of all the anger and fear surrounding him and within himself, he said,

Be angry and do not sin;
reflect in your heart while on your bed and be silent. Selah

Offer sacrifices in righteousness,
and trust in the Lord. (4-5)

The word “anger” has the idea of great agitation, and usually is translated “fear” in the Bible, although anger is certainly another possible translation.

But whatever the source of our agitation, we are to guard our hearts and not sin.

Rather, we should take the time, especially at the end of the day, to reflect in our hearts and be silent before God. To make sure our hearts are right before him. And to once again, reorient our hearts to him, putting our trust in him.

The people all around us are filled with fear and anger and are often controlled by these things.

But we are not to be this way. If we let ourselves be dominated by our fear and anger, we are no different from them, and no light will shine out through us.

And this is a world that desperately needs to see that light, especially now.

So while this world gives in to fear and anger, let us turn to the Lord, trusting him. Only then will we know his joy in the midst of the turmoil. And only then, will we be able to say with David,

I will both lie down and sleep in peace,
for you alone, Lord, make me live in safety. (8)

The God of peace be with you in these troubled times.

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1 John Devotionals

Not burdensome

1 John

For a lot of people, when they say, “I love God,” it’s primarily an emotional thing. It’s a feeling of “I feel close to God,” or “I feel God’s love in my life.”

But love for God is not just some ishy-squishy feeling we have for God. Rather, John tells us this:

For this is what love for God is: to keep his commands. (1 John 5:3)

Do you truly love God? If you do, you show it by keeping his commands.

“But that sounds so legalistic,” you might say.

It only sounds that way if you think that God’s commands are a burden. If you think that God is trying to steal all your joy in life. If you think that God is standing with a bat ready to bash you when you fail.

But John says,

And his commands are not a burden, because everyone who has been born of God conquers the world. This is the victory that has conquered the world: our faith. (3b-4)

No, God’s commands are not a burden. Why not?

Because of our faith. We trust God. We trust that God loves us. We trust that God desires our best. And we know that even when we fail, God doesn’t bash us. Rather, he picks us up in love, and keeps walking with us.

We don’t have to try to keep his commands in our own strength. Instead, each day, he leads and guides us in his love.

More than that, we know the victory has already been won.

Jesus paid the price for our sin on the cross. And one day he will return and make all things we new. He will make us new, and we will be like him, for we shall see him as he is. (1 John 3:2)

That’s our hope. That’s why we love him. And that’s why his commands are not a burden. At least, they shouldn’t be.

How about you? Are God’s commands burdensome to you? Or a joy?

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1 John Devotionals

When our hearts condemn us

1 John

A lot of us struggle with the truth we find in verse 1.

See what great love the Father has given us that we should be called God’s children—and we are! (1 John 3:1)

Why do we struggle with it? We struggle because we feel we aren’t truly worthy of his love. We see words like,

Everyone who remains in him does not sin;, everyone who sins has not seen him or known him. (6)

and,

Everyone who has been born of God does not sin. (9)

and we say to ourselves, “But I do sin. Does that mean I’m not really a Christian?”

But as I said yesterday, John is not saying that Christians never sin. Rather, they have a changed heart which desires to be like the Savior who loves them.

They long for the day when we will see him face to face. And because of that, they no longer pursue sin, but holiness (2-3).

But in the meantime, there are times we sin. And it is so easy to condemn ourselves. To say we are not worthy of God’s love.

Satan of course will throw those accusations against us. But sometimes our own hearts will too.

And so John says,

 If our hearts condemn us, we know that God is greater than our hearts, and he knows everything. (20, NIV)

God see our failures. But God also sees our hearts.

After Peter denied Jesus three times, his heart condemned him. But Jesus was greater than his heart. He knew that Peter truly loved him. (John 21)

In the same way, when your heart condemns you, rest assured, Jesus knows your heart.

If your conscience is pierced because of your sin, and yet you love Jesus and desire to be like him, he knows. And he extends his grace to you.

Every morning, his mercies to you are new. Though we are not always faithful, great is his faithfulness! (Lamentations 3:22-23, 2 Timothy 2:13).

Let us rest each day in his grace and his faithfulness to us.

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1 John Devotionals

Truths we hold

1 John

We live in a world that holds on to a lot of partial truths.

But as Christians we can’t do that. We need to hold to the whole truth.

And so as we read 1 John, it’s important to hold all truth together.

What are these truths.

  1. You can’t walk in darkness and claim to be a Christian. Put another way, you can’t live in unrepentant sin and say you are a Christian. To do so, John says, makes you a liar (1 John 1:6). Rather a true Christian is marked by a love for God and a love for others.
  2. That said, all Christians sin (1:8, 10). No Christian is perfect. And no Christian loves God or people perfectly.
  3. When we sin, Jesus intercedes for us before the Father. On the cross, Jesus took all of the Father’s wrath for our sins upon himself (2:1-2). And because of that, we have peace with God.

What happens when we fail to hold these truths together? We either fall into a life of licentiousness, or we fall into depression that we don’t measure up as Christians.

Let’s run from both extremes. Rather, let us do these two things:

  1. Live in the light. Make loving God and loving others your top priorities. And when you fall, don’t hide your sin. Bring it before God with a heart of repentance.
  2. Walk in grace. When you fall, don’t beat yourself up. Don’t run in shame from God. Instead, run to him, knowing Jesus himself is interceding for you.
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Psalms Devotionals

When God seems distant

Psalms

As a deer longs for flowing streams,
so I long for you, God.
I thirst for God, the living God. (Psalm 41:1-2)

Many times when we see these verses, we think of it as, “God I already have this close relationship with you, but I want to draw even closer.”

But as you look at these two psalms, that’s not what David was saying. Far from feeling close to God, he felt distant from God.

“When can I meet with God? I remember those days leading worship in the temple. But now I feel overwhelmed by the waves of life. Why have you forgotten me, Lord?” (Psalm 42:2-4, 6, 9)

But again and again in these two psalms we see David speaking to his own heart.

Why, my soul, are you so dejected?
Why are you in such turmoil?

Put your hope in God, for I will still praise him,
my Savior and my God. (42:5,11; 43:5)

Why would he repeat these words three times? Because despite his faith, he still struggled with his emotions.

Jesus’ disciples knew what that was like. Like David, they were being overwhelmed by the waves. And though Jesus was in the boat with them, he was sleeping, as if he didn’t care.

And they cried out, “Teacher! Don’t you care that we’re going to die?” (Mark 4:38)

After Jesus calmed the storm, he asked them,

Why are you afraid? Do you still have no faith?” (Mark 4:40)

Our emotions can be strong. They can threaten to overwhelm us.

But in our times of fear, depression, and discouragement, let us choose to put our hope in God. Let us choose to believe him. And let us choose to praise him.

After all, two thousand years ago he came to this earth and proved on a cross he is worthy of that trust.

Categories
Psalms Devotionals

Why Jesus came

Psalms

Here in Japan, it is Christmas Eve, and though Psalm 40 is not often (if ever) thought of as a “Christmas psalm,” it does give us the reason for Christmas.

We find it in verses 6-8.

You do not delight in sacrifice and offering;
you open my ears to listen.

You do not ask for a whole burnt offering or a sin offering.

Then I said, “See, I have come;
in the scroll it is written about me.

I delight to do your will, my God,
and your instruction is deep within me.” (Psalm 40:6-8)

Though David speaks these words, the author of Hebrews sees its ultimate fulfillment in Christ (Hebrews 10:5-9).

David was merely saying, “You don’t just want sacrifices and offerings from me, you want my whole life.”

But when Jesus said them, he was saying, “The reason this world needs a Savior is that all the sacrifices and offerings people can offer cannot wash away their sins.”

Then Jesus tells the Father, “I have come to do your will.” 

And so Jesus came to this earth as a little baby. Throughout his life, he did his Father’s will, never falling into sin.

Then on the cross, he followed his Father’s will by dying to take the punishment for our sin. 

That’s the meaning of Christmas. 

So with David, let us proclaim God’s faithfulness and salvation to this world, declaring to them his grace and his truth found in Jesus. (9-10)

And with David, let us cry out in praise,

The LORD is great! (16)

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Galatians Devotionals

In the fullness of time

Galatians

But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son, born of woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons.

And because you are sons, God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, crying, “Abba! Father!”

So you are no longer a slave, but a son, and if a son, then an heir through God. (Galatians 4:4-7, ESV)

Sometimes we wonder why God allows so much pain, suffering, and evil in this world. Ever since sin came into the world, humans have been under these things, and the words of that old carol resonate with us.

And in despair I bowed my head.
“There is no peace on earth.” I said.

“For hate is strong, and mocks the song
Of peace on earth, good will to men.”

But in the “fullness of time,” at just the right time, God sent his Son.

His Son was born of a woman. He became human as we are. The pain, suffering, and evil we face every day, Jesus himself faced.

The law of God that we were unable to keep and were condemned by, Jesus lived under perfectly.

And then he went to the cross, taking upon himself the curse the law demanded, not for his own sin, but for ours. (Galatians 3:13-14)

And by taking that curse upon himself, he purchased us for God, not to be his slaves, but to be his sons and daughters.

Now for those of us who have put our trust in him, the right Jesus had to call God, “Abba, Father,” has become ours. We are heirs of God now, and coheirs with Christ.

And in the fullness of time, Jesus will come again. On that day, he will indeed be “Immanuel, God with us.” We will be his people, and he will be our God.

And when we see him, he will wipe away every tear from our eyes, “and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things will have passed away.” (Revelation 21:2-4)

No, God is not slow in keeping his promises. For as that old carol concludes,

God is not dead, nor does he sleep.
The wrong shall fail; the right prevail
With peace on earth, good will to men.

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Isaiah Devotionals

Our light, our hope

Isaiah

As we fast approach December 25th, I hope to write a few meditations on Christmas this week.

I was recently reading Isaiah 59-60, admittedly not the first passage most people go to when thinking about Christmas.

But it does go to the very heart of what Christmas is all about.

Isaiah wrote,

Indeed, the Lord’s arm is not too weak to save,
and his ear is not too deaf to hear.

But your iniquities are separating you
from your God,
and your sins have hidden his face from you
so that he does not listen. (Isaiah 59:1-2)

We live in a world now where people take sin very lightly. They scoff at the idea that they could have possibly offended a righteous God.

But in times of trouble, they cry out to God, and when he is silent, they wonder why he doesn’t seem to hear.

As a result, many start to doubt his very existence. And yet they fail to see that their sin has separated them from him.

Isaiah writes,

For our transgressions have multiplied before you,
and our sins testify against us.

For our transgressions are with us,
and we know our iniquities:
transgression and deception against the Lord,
turning away from following our God,
speaking oppression and revolt,
conceiving and uttering lying words from the heart. (Isaiah 59:12-13)

Notice here who is the primary one offended. It is not the people around us that we have hurt. It is God.

Isaiah prays, “Our transgressions have multiplied against you, Lord. Our transgression and deception is against our Lord.”

And then Isaiah gives the ultimate definition of sin: turning away from our God, revolting against him.

The result of our rebellion? A broken world filled with broken people. What was God’s response?

He saw that there was no man—
he was amazed that there was no one interceding…(Isaiah 59:16a)

But God did not simply wonder at the terrible situation. Since no one was interceding, he himself interceded.

so his own arm brought salvation,
and his own righteousness supported him.

He put on righteousness as body armor,
and a helmet of salvation on his head…

“The Redeemer will come to Zion,
and to those in Jacob who turn from transgression.” (Isaiah 59:16b-17)

And that is what Christmas is all about. The Redeemer has come bringing us salvation from our sins.

But more than that, the day is coming when he will return, judging this world and bringing the justice we all long for. And on that day, all will fear the Lord, every knee bowing, and every tongue confessing Jesus Christ is Lord. (Isaiah 59:17b-19)

So God tells us,

Arise, shine, for your light has come,
and the glory of the Lord shines over you.

For look, darkness will cover the earth,
and total darkness the peoples;
but the Lord will shine over you,
and his glory will appear over you.

Nations will come to your light,
and kings to your shining brightness. (Isaiah 60:1-3)

God never promised us a life that is always happy and free from trouble. Even now, we see darkness covering this earth.

We see it in the Corona virus. We see it in violence. We see it in broken families. We see it in broken lives.

But our light, Jesus, has come. And he shines over us and through us.

This Christmas, may Jesus shine through us that all who see us may come to him who is our light and find the hope of salvation we have in him.

Categories
Psalms Devotionals

Our hope

Psalms

The Lord frustrates the counsel of the nations;
he thwarts the plans of the peoples.

The counsel of the Lord stands forever,
the plans of his heart from generation to generation. (Psalm 33:10-11）

This is our hope.

When Herod tried to kill Jesus, his plans were frustrated.

The Jews and Romans crucified Jesus but couldn’t keep him in the grave.

And through the centuries, all of Satan’s attempts to destroy the church have failed.

It is the Lord’s plans that have stood through the centuries.

And when Jesus returns, we will see his salvation.

We wait for the Lord;
he is our help and shield.

For our hearts rejoice in him
because we trust in his holy name.

May your faithful love rest on us, Lord,
for we put our hope in you. (20-22)

Categories
Psalms Devotionals

The blessedness of forgiveness

Psalms

Blessed is the one whose transgression is forgiven,
whose sin is covered.

Blessed is the man against whom the Lord counts no iniquity…(Psalm 32:1-2, ESV)

When was the last time you thought of the blessedness of forgiveness? I mean really thought about it?

David knew that blessedness after his sin with Bathsheba. The weight of his sin was crushing him. But in His mercy, God forgave him. (2 Samuel 11-12)

Peter knew that blessedness after denying Jesus 3 times. He bore incredible guilt for what he had done. But with one conversation, that guilt was wiped away. (John 21)

The woman caught in adultery knew that blessedness. She should have died for her sin. Instead, she found mercy. (John 8:1-11)

Why is it that we so often fail to marvel at the blessedness of forgiveness?

Perhaps it is because we take our sin so lightly now. We don’t think our sins are so bad.

Or perhaps it’s because we are so overwhelmed by feelings of guilt that we feel there can be no forgiveness for us.

Both extremes are wrong.

Remember the cross. Remember the suffering Jesus went through because of our sin. Not just the “major” ones. Every sin. For even the “smallest” sin, even the sin we take lightly would have sent us to hell.

Remember the cross. God doesn’t just pardon us because he’s a nice guy. He pardons us because his Son paid a terrible price for us.

And when he died, he said, “It is finished! Your debt of sin is paid in full!”

Now because of Jesus’ work, there can be forgiveness for even the worst of our sins. There is no sin that is unforgivable if we repent.

Look to the cross.

Marvel at the grace we have been given.

And sing with David,

Blessed is the one whose transgression is forgiven,
whose sin is covered.

Blessed is the man against whom the Lord counts no iniquity… (1-2)

Categories
Psalms Devotionals

God’s favor for a lifetime

Psalms

I was just meditating on David’s words in verse 9 today.

He said,

What profit is there in my death,
if I go down to the pit? (Psalm 30:9, ESV)

For David, there was no profit.

But hundreds of years later on the cross, the answer to that question was quite different.

Through Jesus’ death, there was great profit: our salvation.

And because of his death and resurrection, our mourning is turned into dancing. God’s anger was shown but for a moment on the cross, but now his favor toward us lasts a lifetime.

So this Christmas season, let us sing out in praise with Paul.

Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift! (2 Corinthians 9:15)

Categories
Psalms Devotionals

When God nudges our hearts

Psalms

I have always loved Psalm 27. But one verse in particular spoke to me.

My heart says this about you:
“Seek his face.”

Lord, I will seek your face. (Psalm 27:8)

There are times in life when we are simply exhausted, physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

We know in our hearts that it is especially in those times that we need to seek God.

And so our heart whispers to us, “Seek his face.”

But often times, we instead say, “I’m too tired now. Maybe tomorrow.”

The next day comes and nothing changes.

Our heart again whispers to us, “Seek his face. He is the one you need.”

But we again make excuses. “I’m too busy. I’ve got this to do. And that to do.”

And as the days pass, we fall deeper and deeper into darkness.

Let us not ignore God’s gentle nudgings.

Instead, let your answer tonight be, “Your face, Lord, I will seek.”

Categories
Psalms Devotionals

Because Jesus went before us

Psalms

Who may ascend the mountain of the Lord?
Who may stand in his holy place?
The one who has clean hands and a pure heart. (Psalm 24:3-4)

If you think about it, those are weighty words.

Who, after all, has completely clean hands before the Lord? Who has never done a sinful thing?

And who has a perfectly pure heart before the Lord? Who has never struggled with wrong thoughts and wrong motives?

Who may ascend the mountain of the Lord? Who may stand in his holy place?

By those standards: no one.

Only one person ever perfectly fulfilled those requirements: Jesus.

He then went to the cross to pay the price for our sins. Upon doing so, he ascended to heaven, entered the holy temple there with his own blood. And because he went before us, the author of Hebrews writes,

Therefore, brothers and sisters, since we have boldness to enter the sanctuary through the blood of Jesus—he has inaugurated for us a new and living way through the curtain (that is, through his flesh)—and since we have a great high priest over the house of God, let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed in pure water.

Let us hold on to the confession of our hope without wavering, since he who promised is faithful. (Hebrews 10:19-23)

No, none of us are worthy to ascend the mountain of the Lord. None of us are worthy to stand in his holy place.

But because of Jesus, we receive blessing from the Lord. And the greatest blessing, is that the God our salvation clothes us with Christ’s righteousness. (Psalm 24:5)

So with full confidence, let us draw near to him!

Categories
Psalms Devotionals

His name is Yahweh

Psalms

In the Bible, we find that God’s name is Yahweh. (Exodus 3:15)

Unfortunately, most translations obscure that name by translating it as “LORD” in all capital letters. But whenever you see “LORD” in your Bibles, know that it is the divine name “Yahweh.”

But many times, other words are added to that name, and we see even more clearly what kind of God he is.

In Psalm 23, we find that God is “Yahweh Raah,” Yahweh, our shepherd.

But in our times of need, we also find that he is “Yahweh Yireh” (Genesis 22:13-14), Yahweh, our provider. (Psalm 23:1)

When we are lost and hurting, he is “Yahweh Rapha” (Exodus 15:26), Yahweh, our healer. (Psalm 23:3)

When Satan accuses us, God is “Yahweh Tsidkenu” (Jeremiah 23:6), Yahweh, our righteousness. (Psalm 23:3)

In our darkest times when we are fearful, he is “Yahweh Shalom” (Judges 6:24), Yahweh, our peace.

In those times, he is also “Yahweh Shammah” (Ezekiel 48:35), Yahweh, ever-present. (Psalm 23:4)

And in the face of our enemies, he is “Yahweh Nissi” (Exodus 17:8-15), Yahweh, our banner. (Psalm 23:5)

So as we face different situations in our lives, let us never forget who God is.

He is our shepherd, but he is much more than that. He is also our provider, healer, righteousness, our peace, our ever-present one, and our banner.

Categories
John Devotionals

If you love Jesus…

John

As I read Jesus’ words to Peter, they really hit home today.

Do you love me? Then feed my lambs. (John 21:15)

Do you love me? Then shepherd my sheep. (16)

Do you love me? Then feed my sheep. (17)

Love for Jesus is more than investing in your relationship with him. It’s caring for the people that God has put in your care.

That starts in the home. If you’re a husband, that means feeding and shepherding your wife.

If you’re a father or mother, that means feeding and shepherding your children.

Obviously pastors are in a special position to care for the people in their church.

But if you’re a small group leader, you have that responsibility too.

If you’re a Sunday school teacher or ministry leader, you have that responsibility too.

If you have ever led a friend to Jesus, you have that responsibility too.

A single pastor can only do so much. We are called to minister to others. To feed Jesus’ sheep. To shepherd them.

It’s easy in this Covid season to focus only on ourselves. But what Jesus told Peter, he tells all of us.

“Do you love me?

Then feed my lambs.

Shepherd my sheep.

Feed my sheep.”

Categories
John Devotionals

Believe!

John

Do not be unbelieving, but believing. (John 20:27, NASB)

Jesus’ words to Thomas resonated with me this morning. They echo Jesus’ earlier words to the disciples the night before his crucifixion.

Don’t let your heart be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me. (John 14:1)

In a world filled with trouble, we have hope. We have hope because of the resurrection.

Peter talks about that hope we have.

Because of his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead and into an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you.

You are being guarded by God’s power through faith for a salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time. (1 Peter 1:3-5)

As I said a few days ago, the world is not our home. We have something far greater awaiting us.

For that reason, Peter said,

You rejoice in this, even though now for a short time, if necessary, you suffer grief in various trials that the proven character of your faith—more valuable than gold which, though perishable, is refined by fire—may result in praise, glory, and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. (1 Peter 1:6-7)

That’s the hope we cling to.

But we need choose to believe.

To a large degree, after the resurrection, it was easy for Thomas to believe. After all, he saw the risen Lord with his own eyes and was able to touch Jesus’ hands and his side.

But Jesus told him,

Blessed are those who have not seen and yet believe. (John 20:29)

Peter would later remember these words and say this to people like us who had never seen Jesus with their own eyes.

Though you have not seen him, you love him; though not seeing him now, you believe in him, and you rejoice with inexpressible and glorious joy, because you are receiving the goal of your faith, the salvation of your souls. (1 Peter 1:8-9)

Are you troubled by all that is going on in the world? Are you struggling with personal trials?

Remember the resurrection. Remember the hope we have in Jesus. Trust the Father. Trust Jesus.

Do not be unbelieving, but believing.

Categories
Psalms Devotionals

A reason to be thankful

Psalms

Sadly, here in Japan, people don’t celebrate Thanksgiving.

But with this being the fourth Thursday of November (in Japan, anyway), I thought it would be good to remember the things we ought to be thankful for, especially in a year where it seems that there has been precious little to be thankful for.

The Psalmist wrote,

Enter his gates with thanksgiving
and his courts with praise.
Give thanks to him and bless his name. (Psalm 100:4)

Why? What reason does he give?

For the Lord is good, and his faithful love endures forever;
his faithfulness, through all generations. (5)

“The Lord is good.”

It’s easy to say that in good times. But how about in the bad times?

Why can we say the Lord is good? Ultimately, we look to the cross. For it was there that God proved his faithful love to us.

While we were still sinners, when we had no inkling of even drawing near to him, Christ died for us. (Romans 5:8)

From Adam who sinned in the garden, to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, with all their failings, to the people of Israel who repeatedly failed to trust God, to all the Christians throughout the centuries, God has proved his faithfulness again and again.

He did so to a people who have not always served him with gladness and who have not always acknowledged him as God in their lives.

And yet, though we have at times been faithless, he has always been faithful. (2 Timothy 2:13)

And he will continue to be.

Now that’s a reason to be thankful.

Categories
John Devotionals

Who we trust. (Or why we can have peace).

John

I’ve been meditating on the words of Jesus from these passages over the past few days. Particularly the first few verses of John 14.

Don’t let your heart be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me. (John 14:1)

There’s a lot to be troubled about in this world.

Covid-19 to be sure. The moral direction of society. The departure of many people from the truth of God’s word to “everyone doing what is right in their own eyes.”

And yet Jesus says, “Don’t let yourself be troubled.”

What is the basis of this command?

“Believe in God. Believe also in me.”

Though Covid-19 runs rampant, trust God. He has a plan in all this.

Though things go from bad to worse in society, trust Jesus. He has already won the victory on the cross.

Jesus doesn’t say to trust our politicians or judges. He doesn’t say to trust our political or judicial systems. All of these are flawed, imperfect, stained by sin.

Nor does he say to just believe that somehow, someway society will get better.

Instead he reminds us that this world is not our home. That he is preparing a better world. A better society. Not based on human wisdom or effort. But based on what Jesus did on the cross.

And the day will come when he returns, he judges this world, and he makes all things new.

That’s our hope. And that’s why we can have peace.

And so Jesus says,

Peace I leave with you. My peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Don’t let your heart be troubled or fearful. (John 14:27)

And again,

I have told you these things so that in me you may have peace.

You will have suffering in this world. Be courageous! I have conquered the world. (John 16:33)

So in this troubled world, let us rest confidently in our Lord.