Tag: Bible verse

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Genesis Devotions

God fights

Genesis

Your name will no longer be Jacob,” he said.

“It will be Israel because you have struggled with God and with men and have prevailed.” (Genesis 32:28)

When blessing Jacob, God gave him a new name: Israel.

The name “Israel” can mean either “He struggles with God” or “God fights.”

I could always understand the first meaning. All his life, Jacob had struggled with God trying to gain his blessing and favor.

Instead of waiting for God’s timing, he stole Esau’s birthright and blessing.

Instead of trusting God and simply telling Laban he was leaving, he ran away secretly with his family.

But today, I finally came to understand the second meaning of that name.

The thing that Jacob had to learn was he didn’t have to fight to obtain God’s blessing and favor.

God was already on his side. God was fighting for him.

God was fighting for Jacob in his struggles with Laban (Genesis 31:6-13, 24, 42).

And God would fight for him in reconciling him with Esau. (Genesis 33)

So many times, we feel like we have to struggle to gain God’s favor and blessing. But in doing so, we end up fighting God and others.

Sometimes, just like Jacob was trying to buy Esau’s favor and forgiveness, we try to do the same with God.

But God tells us, “I am already on your side. I am already fighting for you.”

And Jesus showed us that most vividly on the cross. (Colossians 2:13-15)

So remember the words of Paul.

What, then, are we to say about these things? If God is for us, who is against us? He did not even spare his own Son but gave him up for us all. How will he not also with him grant us everything?

Who can bring an accusation against God’s elect? God is the one who justifies.

Who is the one who condemns? Christ Jesus is the one who died, but even more, has been raised; he also is at the right hand of God and intercedes for us.

Who can separate us from the love of Christ? Can affliction or distress or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? …

No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.

For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. (Romans 8:31-35, 37-39)

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Genesis Devotions

For the insignificant and despised

Leah

It’s interesting to me that God chose Leah as the one through whom Jesus would ultimately be born.

Rachel was the “loved one.”

Leah was not.

Rachel was the beautiful one.

Leah was the homely one.

And yet God chose her instead of Rachel.

It reminds me of what Paul told the Corinthians.

Brothers and sisters, consider your calling: Not many were wise from a human perspective, not many powerful, not many of noble birth.

Instead, God has chosen what is foolish in the world to shame the wise, and God has chosen what is weak in the world to shame the strong.

God has chosen what is insignificant and despised in the world—what is viewed as nothing—to bring to nothing what is viewed as something… (1 Corinthians 1:26-28)

Why does God choose such people?

…so that no one may boast in his presence. (I Corinthians 1:29)

It is solely by God’s grace and Christ’s work that we are justified, sanctified, and redeemed. (I Corinthians 1:30)

And so, Paul concludes,

Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord. (I Corinthians 1:31)

Ultimately, that’s what Leah did.

After her first three sons were born, you see her focusing on her wretched state, saying that she was afflicted, neglected, and unloved.

But after Judah was born, she turned her focus away from her wretched state, and instead turned her eyes to God, saying,  

This time I will praise the Lord (Genesis 29:35)

I find it only fitting then that Judah’s line was the one through whom Jesus came.

You might think of yourself as insignificant. As despised. But you are exactly the kind of person that God likes to pour his grace upon.

You are in fact the kind of person Jesus identifies with. According to Isaiah,

He didn’t have an impressive form
or majesty that we should look at him,
no appearance that we should desire him.

He was despised and rejected by men,
a man of suffering who knew what sickness was.

He was like someone people turned away from;
he was despised, and we didn’t value him.” (Isaiah 53:2-3)

But Jesus didn’t just come to identify with the despised and insignificant. He came to redeem them.

…he was pierced because of our rebellion,
crushed because of our iniquities;
punishment for our peace was on him,
and we are healed by his wounds. (Isaiah 53:5)

Christmas isn’t just for the happy, the loved, and the powerful.

Christmas is for people like Leah. It’s for people like you. It’s for people like me.

So with Leah, let us boast in the Lord, singing, “I will praise you Lord.”

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Genesis Devotions

Our stairway. Our gate. Our temple. Our God.

Genesis

A stairway was set on the ground with its top reaching the sky, and God’s angels were going up and down on it. The Lord was standing there beside him, saying, “I am the Lord”…

[Jacob] said, “Surely the Lord is in this place, and I did not know it.”

He was afraid and said, “What an awesome place this is! This is none other than the house of God. This is the gate of heaven.” (12-13, 16-17)

Think about this scene. Jacob, because of his sin, was on the run from his brother Esau.

And yet God reached down in his grace and revealed himself to him. Not only did he reveal himself to Jacob, he blessed him.

Around 2000 years after this event, another man named Nathanael stood in front of Jesus.

I believe that like Jacob, he was somewhat afraid because Jesus had revealed things about Nathanael that only God could have known.

Nathanael named him Messiah that day. But he didn’t yet realize that Jesus was much more.

Jesus told him,

You will see greater things than this…

Truly I tell you, you will see heaven opened and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man.(John 1:50-51)

In the story of Jacob, the angels descended from heaven on the stairway. Here in John, Jesus says, “I am the stairway. But I am not telling you to come up to me. I have come down to you.”

More than that, Jesus is the new house of God, the new temple where God’s glory is revealed, and people can draw close to him because of his death on the cross (John 2:20, 12:32).

And now, he is the gate to heaven. If anyone enters by him, he will be saved. (John 10:9)

That’s the meaning of Christmas. Jesus is our stairway, our temple, our gate, and most importantly, our Lord and God.

And whether we know it or not, he is in this place.

He is Immanuel, God with us.

So together with Jacob and Nathanael, let us stand in awe in his presence.

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Genesis Devotions

I will be with you. I will bless you.

Genesis

…stay in this land as an alien, and I will be with you and bless you… I am the God of your father Abraham. Do not be afraid, for I am with you. I will bless you. (26:3, 24)

Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob didn’t belong to this world. They belonged to God and his kingdom. But for a while, they were called to live on this earth as aliens, as temporary residents. (Hebrews 11:13-16)

They weren’t to live like the people around them, taking on their values or way of life. They were to be different from the people of this world.  

And God promised them that though they would be living like aliens in a foreign land, he would be with them and bless them.

As long as they remembered that, they did well. When they forgot, they got into trouble.

When Abraham and Isaac forgot, out of fear of their neighbors, they claimed their wives were their sisters.

In Jacob’s case, perhaps he wasn’t sure those promises were really for him, so he resorted to deceit in order to gain God’s blessing.

Like Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, we are like foreigners in a strange land. (1 Peter 2:11, John 17:14-16)

The question is, do we truly believe that God is with us and will bless us? And does that truth shape the way we live?

Take some time to mediate on these words of Paul. Think about what they really mean.

On the contrary, we speak God’s hidden wisdom in a mystery, a wisdom God predestined before the ages for our glory…as it is written,

What no eye has seen, no ear has heard,
and no human heart has conceived—
God has prepared these things for those who love him. (I Corinthians 2:7, 9)

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Genesis Devotions

The God who sees and comforts

Genesis

It’s always amazing to me how I can read something in the Bible over and over and never really notice its significance.

I’ve read this passage hundreds of times before, but today, this verse stuck out at me:

Now Isaac was returning from Beer-lahai-roi, for he was living in the Negev region. (62)

A pretty inconspicuous verse, right?

But that name “Beer-lahoi-roi” rang a bell with me. And I suddenly realized that it was the same place where God had met Hagar years earlier when she had been running away from Sarah. (Genesis 16)

And after her encounter with God, she called him, “El-roi”, “The God who sees me.” The name “Beer-lahoi-roi” means “the well of the Living One who sees me.”

Perhaps as Isaac was wandering out there, he was praying, “God, you were with Hagar when she was pregnant with my brother Ishmael. You saw her when she was hurting. Will you now be with me in my hurt? My mother has died. And right now, I am feeling incredibly lonely.”

And God was. In his gracious provision and impeccable timing, God brought Rebekah to Isaac. It says at the end of this chapter,

And Isaac brought her into the tent of his mother Sarah and took Rebekah to be his wife. Isaac loved her, and he was comforted after his mother’s death. (67)

Christmas season is usually a happy time. But it can also be a hard time for many people, especially if you have lost someone you loved this year.

But remember that God is “El-roi”, the God who sees you.

And remember that Jesus is “Immanuel,” God with us.

So if you’re struggling right now, turn to him.

God is the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort who comforts us in all our affliction (2 Corinthians 1:3-4).

And through whatever pain you may be feeling, his Son is right there by your side.

For a child will be born for us,
a son will be given to us,
and the government will be on his shoulders.

He will be named
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Eternal Father, Prince of Peace. (Isaiah 9:6)

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Genesis Devotions

Foreigners and temporary residents

Walking together

I am a sojourner and foreigner among you. (4, ESV)

When Sarah died, perhaps the truth of those words really hit home for Abraham.

He was in the land God had promised to give him and his descendants, but the only part he owned was the place he purchased to bury Sarah.

He was in a land where he was a mere sojourner and a foreigner.

We too are sojourners and foreigners in this world.

The culture of this world is different from ours as citizens of God’s kingdom. The way the people think and act is different from how we think and act. And so we feel out of place.

On top of that, when we see all the pain in this world, when we see how death reigns here, we start to feel homesick for heaven.

Our hearts are not truly here. We’re looking for something better.

And we have something better. We have a hope, an inheritance promised by a God who never breaks his promises.

So let’s hold firmly to that hope, taking on the attitude of Abraham, Sarah, and all who have come before us.

These all died in faith, although they had not received the things that were promised.

But they saw them from a distance, greeted them, and confessed that they were foreigners and temporary residents on the earth.

Now those who say such things make it clear that they are seeking a homeland.

If they were thinking about where they came from, they would have had an opportunity to return.

But they now desire a better place—a heavenly one.

Therefore, God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared a city for them. (Hebrews 11:13-16)

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Genesis Devotions

The Scriptures testify about me

Genesis

When Jesus said the Scriptures talked about him (John 5:38-39), I can’t help but think Genesis 22 was one of those Scriptures he was talking about.

God told Abraham,

Take your son…your only son Isaac, whom you love, go to the land of Moriah, and offer him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains I will tell you about. (Genesis 22:2)

While God ultimately kept Abraham from sacrificing Isaac, God did not hold back his own Son from the cross.

And so the apostle John wrote these words,

God’s love was revealed among us in this way: God sent his one and only Son into the world so that we might live through him.

Love consists in this: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the atoning sacrifice, for our sins. (1 John 4:9-10)

And again,

For God loved the world in this way: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life. (John 3:16)

As Abraham and Isaac went up the mountain, Isaac asked, “Where is the lamb for the burnt offering?”

To which Abraham replied,

God himself will provide the lamb for the burnt offering, my son. (Genesis 22:8)

Many years later, John the Baptist would say of Jesus,

Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world! (John 1:29)

As Isaac carried the wood of the sacrifice, Jesus carried the wood of the cross.

As Isaac “rose from the dead,” so too did Jesus. (Hebrews 11:19)

And now through Jesus, Abraham’s offspring, all the nations of the world have been blessed. (Genesis 22:18, Matthew 1:1-16)

Sometimes people wonder why we should read the Old Testament. The main reason is we see Jesus there.

So as we read the Old Testament, let’s look for Jesus together.  

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Genesis Devotions

When God visits

Genesis

Now the Lord was gracious to Sarah as he had said, and the Lord did for Sarah what he had promised. (Genesis 21:1, NIV)

The NIV translation is very interesting when it says, “the Lord was gracious to Sarah.”

Most translations say “The Lord came to Sarah” or “The Lord visited Sarah.”

After a little digging, what I found was that in the Old Testament, the words “The Lord came” or “The Lord visited” often has the nuance of the Lord coming either to bless or to curse.

And in this case, he came to bless Sarah, just as he had promised, giving her a son.

Hundreds of years later, the Lord would visit another woman named Mary. And in doing so, he kept another promise: to send a Savior to save us all.

And as John tells us, from Jesus, we have received “grace upon grace.” (John 1:16)

I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again,

Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift! (2 Corinthians 9:15)

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Psalms Devotionals 2

A reason to give thanks

Psalms

Happy Thanksgiving all!

Psalm 100 is titled, “A psalm of thanksgiving” so I thought it was very appropriate for the day.

As I was reflecting on this psalm, however, it occurred to me how unusual it was. It seems much more a New Testament psalm than an Old Testament one.

Why?

It is a call not just for the Jews, but for all people to worship God.

Prior to the cross, it was the Jews who had reason to worship. They were the ones who could truly claim to be God’s people, God’s sheep. They were the ones who had special access to God.

But this side of the cross, everyone who believes in Jesus, both Jew and non-Jew, can now enter into God’s presence. All have the right to say, “I am God’s sheep. I belong to him.”

So let us serve him with gladness, coming before him with joyful songs.

Let us boldly enter his presence with thanksgiving and bless his name.

For the Lord is good, and his faithful love endures forever;
his faithfulness, through all generations. (Psalm 100:5)

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Genesis Devotions

At the appointed time

Genesis

I don’t know why, but maybe because Christmas is right around the corner, I’m seeing a lot of things through that lens.

The Lord asked Abraham,

Why did Sarah laugh, saying, “Can I really have a baby when I’m old?”

Is anything impossible for the Lord?

At the appointed time I will come back to you, and in about a year she will have a son. (13-14)

Those words rang a bell with me, and I thought of Gabriel’s words to Mary.

The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you.

Therefore, the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God.

And consider your relative Elizabeth—even she has conceived a son in her old age, and this is the sixth month for her who was called childless.

For nothing will be impossible with God. (Luke 1:35-37)

And then I thought of Paul’s words to the Galatians.

But when the set time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those under the law, that we might receive adoption to sonship. (Galatians 4:4-5, NIV)

The birth of Isaac was the first step to God fulfilling his promise that Abraham would be a blessing to all nations. It seemed impossible, with Sarah already being 90 years old.

But she did give birth to a son, turning her laughter of doubt into laughter of joy.

Then at the right time, God sent Jesus in an equally impossible situation, with Mary, a virgin, giving birth to a son.

But now, through him, we rejoice as children of God.

For as Paul wrote,

And because you are sons, God 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 God has made you an heir. (Galatians 4:6-7)

So let us rejoice with Paul, saying,

Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift! (2 Corinthians 9:15)

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Genesis Devotions

The God who hears. The God who sees.

Genesis

Here in this passage, we see two names that describe God.

Ishmael: God hears.

El-roi: God sees me.

That’s who God was to Hagar.

And it wasn’t like she deserved it. She messed up badly, and so she was forced to run away.

But God heard her.

God saw her.

And he went chasing after her in the desert.

That term “angel of the Lord” is very interesting.

Sometimes it refers to a mere angel.

But the word “angel” itself means “messenger.”

And sometimes it seems that messenger spoke as if he were God himself.

He does so here:

The angel of the Lord said to her, “I will greatly multiply your offspring, and they will be too many to count.” (10)

Some Bible scholars think this messenger may have been Jesus himself, hundreds of years before he appeared on earth as a baby.

And to Hagar too, Jesus was Immanuel: “God with us.”

The God who sees. The God who hears.

Like Hagar, you might be in a spiritual desert right now. Like Hagar, it might be your own fault.

But God is not giving up on you. He’s chasing after you.

He sees.

He hears.

He is and will always be…Immanuel.

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Genesis Devotions

I choose to believe you!

Genesis

After these events, the word of the Lord came to Abram in a vision:

Do not be afraid, Abram.
I am your shield;
your reward will be very great…

Abram believed the Lord, and he credited it to him as righteousness. (15:1, 6)

I can’t help but think the writer of Hebrews was thinking of this story when he wrote these words:

Now without faith it is impossible to please God, since the one who draws near to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him. (Hebrews 11:6)

Abram had his doubts. He had his times of self-pity. (15:2-3)

At times, his faith would falter. (Genesis 16-17, 20)

But ultimately, the attitude of his heart was: “I choose to believe you, Lord.”

God can work with people like that. Those are the kind of people he seeks. And those are the kinds of people that please him.

Lord, I believe you are good. I believe you love me and desire my best. And so I say with Abraham today, “Lord, I choose to believe you.”

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Genesis Devotions

Blessed

Genesis

Abram is blessed by God Most High,
Creator of heaven and earth,
and blessed be God Most High
who has handed over your enemies to you. (19-20)

A couple of days ago, I talked about how we as Christians are the spiritual descendants of Abraham and inheritors of God’s blessing. (Galatians 3:8-9).

And as I saw this verse, I couldn’t help but reflect on that truth some more.

As inheritors of God’s blessing, try reading the blessing of Melchizedek with your own name in there.

“<Your name> is blessed by God Most High,
Creator of heaven and earth.”

We are blessed in so many ways. We have received so many spiritual blessings from God. (Ephesians 1:3-14)

More, through Jesus, we have the ultimate victory over our final enemy: death. (I Corinthians 15:26, 50-57)

The amazing thing about it, though, is that the God of all creation would care enough about us to bless us in this way.

Stop and think about that for a moment. Mediate on that truth.

And as we do, let us sing with David:

When I observe your heavens,
the work of your fingers,
the moon and the stars,
which you set in place,
what is a human being that you remember him,
a son of man that you look after him?
You made him little less than God,
and crowned him with glory and honor. (Psalm 8:3-5)

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Genesis Devotions

Inheritors of God’s blessing

Genesis

I will bless you…and you will be a blessing…all the peoples on earth will be blessed through you. (Genesis 12:2-3)

It’s hard to believe that Christmas is just around the corner.

And in this passage, we see one of the first “Christmas promises.”

God told Abraham that in him all the peoples on earth would be blessed. That was ultimately fulfilled in Jesus, who was a descendant of Abraham.

And we are inheritors of that blessing. (Galatians 3:8-9; Ephesians 1:3-14)

But like Abraham, we are not called simply to receive God’s blessing. We are to be a blessing to others. We are to shine the light of Jesus into their lives so that they too might receive the blessing we ourselves have received.

So as Christ’s church, let us go out into this world and be that blessing to the world.

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Genesis Devotions

Because our God remembers

Genesis

Whenever I form clouds over the earth and the bow appears in the clouds, I will remember my covenant between me and you and all the living creatures: water will never again become a flood to destroy every creature.

The bow will be in the clouds, and I will look at it and remember the permanent covenant between God and all the living creatures on earth. (Genesis 9:14-16)

What if God were a God that forgets his promises?

That’s a scary thought.

But God doesn’t forget his promises. He is faithful to them.

And that’s why we have hope.

Even when we are faithless, he remains faithful. (2 Timothy 2:13)

That’s why Jeremiah could sing,

Because of the Lord’s faithful love
we do not perish,
for his mercies never end.
They are new every morning;
great is your faithfulness! (Lamentations 3:22-23)

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Genesis Devotions

Not forgotten

Genesis

And the water surged on the earth 150 days…

God remembered Noah…and the water began to subside…

By the twenty-seventh day of the second month, the earth was dry. (7:24-8:1, 14)

Since COVID-19 hit, we in Japan have been asked several times to refrain from going out as much as possible.

Imagine being on a boat (albeit a large one) for just over a year.

That’s what Noah and his family had to do. The flood started on the  17th day of the second month, and the earth finally dried up a year later on the 27th day of the second month. (7:11, 8:14)

How many times did God communicate with Noah during that time? Once? Twice? Never?

And yet, it says “God remembered Noah.”

It’s not as if God had forgotten Noah and suddenly realized, “Wait a minute! Noah and his family are still on that boat.”

Rather, God was watching over Noah and his family the whole time.

We may be going through our own trials and struggles. But remember that we are never forgotten. Rather, God tells us,

Do not fear, for I have redeemed you;
I have called you by your name; you are mine.

When you pass through the waters,
I will be with you
and the rivers will not overwhelm you,

When you walk through the fire,
you will not be scorched
and the flame will not burn you.

For I am the Lord your God,
the Holy One of Israel, and your Savior.” (Isaiah 43:1-3)

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Genesis Devotions

His blood cries out

Genesis

After Cain murdered his brother Abel, God told him,

Your brother’s blood cries out to me from the ground!” (10)

Abel’s blood cried for justice.

So God told Cain,

“…now you are cursed…” (11)

And Cain had to depart from the presence of the Lord. (14, 16)

Thousands of years later, another innocent man died. Jesus died on a cross though he had done nothing wrong. But the writer of Hebrews tells us this:

Instead, you have come…to Jesus, the mediator of a new covenant, and to the sprinkled blood, which says better things than the blood of Abel. (12:22-24)

While Abel’s blood cried out for justice, Jesus’ blood cried out for grace.

And so God looks at us and says, “My Son’s blood cries out to me from the ground. So now you are blessed. The curse has been lifted. And by his blood, you have been forgiven.”

So the writer of Hebrews encourages us,

“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)

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Genesis Devotions

The day the curse is reversed

Genesis

As I was reading this passage, I thought about all the results of our sin.

Guilt.

Shame.

Pain.

Death.

But worst of all, being cast out from God’s presence.

And yet, God said something that gave hope to Adam and Eve.

He told Satan,

I will put hostility between you and the woman,
and between your offspring and her offspring.
He will strike your head,
and you will strike his heel. (3:15)

God kept that promise. On the cross, Jesus suffered death, but in doing so, he delivered a fatal blow to Satan. More, Jesus rose from the dead three days later.

And because of that, we look forward to the day the curse is reversed. The apostle John saw it, and he described it to us.

Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth; for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and the sea was no more.

I also saw the holy city, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared like a bride adorned for her husband.

Then I heard a loud voice from the throne: Look, God’s dwelling is with humanity, and he will live with them.

They will be his peoples, and God himself will be with them and will be their God.

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.

Then the one seated on the throne said, “Look, I am making everything new.” (Revelation 21:1-5)

Amen. Come Lord Jesus. (Revelation 22:20)

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Genesis Devotions

Created male and female

Genesis

Then God said, “Let us make man in our image, according to our likeness…” 

So God created man in his own image;
he created him in the image of God;
he created them male and female. (1:26-27)

When I first wrote this blog, I would have never thought to address this issue.

But now we have people saying that “male” and “female” are mere human concepts that have no basis in reality. That we need to get rid of this idea that humanity is divided into male and female.

But we see in this passage that “male” and “female” are not human ideas, but God’s.

Jesus himself affirmed it later. He told the Pharisees,

Haven’t you read…that he who created them in the beginning made them male and female… (Matthew 19:4)

God made us male and female. And God says this is a good thing. (1:31)

One reason he made us this way was so that we could populate the earth. (1:28)

But just as importantly, it was so that we as humans could better reflect his image.

Men and women don’t reflect God in exactly the same way. But together, they show us a pretty good picture of what God is like.

Just think of how he portrays himself as both a father and a mother. (Isaiah 49:15, 66:13; Psalm 131:2;  Psalm 103:13, Galatians 4:6-7, Hebrews 12:5-11)

To reject the idea of male and female is to reject our Creator’s own teaching and intention for us. We will never know who we truly are if we do that.

So let us not buy the lie of the world. It is not the idea of male and female that is human invention.

It’s when we start trying to add other gender identities that we start getting into the realm of human invention.

I know there may be people reading this blog who are hurting and struggling with their gender identity.

Please remember this: God loves you. He has a good plan for you. But the answer is not found in buying the lies of this world.

Jesus tells us,

If you continue in my word, you really are my disciples. You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free…if the Son sets you free, you really will be free. (John 8:31-32, 36)

So let us cling to the truth. Let us cling to Jesus’ teaching: we humans are male and female. And that is good.

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Genesis Devotions

Mere animals?

Genesis

If there is one thing this world tries to convince us of is that we are mere animals.

That there is nothing truly special about us. That we’re no different from any other animal.

But Genesis 1-2 exposes that lie.

I find it interesting that God blessed the animals and humans in similar ways. Both were to multiply and fill the earth. (1:22-26)

But God blessed humans in a special way. He said,

Be fruitful, multiply, fill the earth, and subdue it. Rule the fish of the sea, the birds of the sky, and every creature that crawls on the earth. (1:28)

But it would have been impossible for humans to fulfill that command were it not for one important thing God did, one special quality he gave us.

“Then God said, “Let us make man in our image, according to our likeness…”  

So God created man in his own image;
he created him in the image of God;
he created them male and female. (1:26-27)

God created us in his own image.

We can think as he thinks.

We can communicate as he communicates.

We can love as he loves.

We can create things as he does.

We have a sense of right and wrong, warped as it is sometimes by sin.

The next time you’re at a coffee shop, or at a park, or a beach, or a train, stop and look at the people around you.

Just look at the things they’re doing, no matter how ordinary.

And ask yourself, “Are these simply animals, no different from any other, with no greater value?”

Yes there are thing we have in common with animals. But God has made us so much more than they are.

So let us stand in awe at the God who made us. And let us stand in wonder at how fearfully and wonderfully made we are.

Categories
Genesis Devotions

In the beginning, God…

Genesis

Why do we worship God? Why do we trust him?

I suppose the reasons are found in the very first words of the Bible.

“In the beginning God…”

Take some time to think on those words.

Before anything else existed, God was.

Everything that exists comes from him.

In his wisdom he created all things.

By his power all things were created.

His mind is more vast than we can comprehend.

His power…limitless.

That’s is the God we worship.

And amazingly, that is the God who loves us.

So let us sing with all his angels,

Holy, holy, holy,
Lord God, the Almighty,
who was, who is, and who is to come…

Our Lord and God,
you are worthy to receive
glory and honor and power,
because you have created all things,
and by your will
they exist and were created.” (Revelation 4:8, 11)

Categories
Psalms Devotionals 2

When we finally come home.

Psalms

Psalm 126 is another song of ascent, a song the Jews sang when on pilgrimage to Jerusalem. In it, they sing about their joy upon their return from exile in Babylon.

But now they pray again for restoration. And they look forward to the day when their tears will once again be turned to joy.

As Christians, we too are on a pilgrimage…to a new Jerusalem. And in Revelation, John gives us a similar picture to this psalm.

In his vision, the Christians who had suffered much on this earth for Christ, are crying out in joy,

Salvation belongs to our God,
who is seated on the throne,
and to the Lamb! (Revelation 7:10)

And John is told,

…they are before the throne of God,
and they serve him day and night in his temple.

The one seated on the throne will shelter them:
They will no longer hunger;
they will no longer thirst;
the sun will no longer strike them,
nor will any scorching heat.

For the Lamb who is at the center of the throne
will shepherd them;
he will guide them to springs of the waters of life,
and God will wipe away every tear from their eyes. (Revelation 7:15-17)

As the psalmist says, we do indeed sow in tears, but when we come home, we will reap with shouts of joy. And no one will ever take away our joy. (Psalm 126:5, John 16:22)

Categories
Psalms Devotionals 2

If the Lord had not been on our side

Psalms

If the Lord had not been on our side—
let Israel say—
if the Lord had not been on our side… (Psalm 124:1-2a)

Those words made me think of something my pastor said in a recent message: “If God had not been on my side, if God had not saved me, where would I be now? How would my life be different?”

I think my life would be very different.

I’ve seen how God dealt with my father’s anger issues and how that change not only affected my relationship with him, but with my wife and daughter as well.

I see my own sins and weaknesses and how they could have made a total mess of my life if God had not worked in my own heart.

But most importantly, I see how without the Lord, I would still be lost in my sin and on the path to hell.

God saved me from all that.

So all I can say is,

“Blessed be the Lord…

I have escaped like a bird from the hunter’s net;
the net is torn, and I have escaped.

My help is in the name of the Lord,
the Maker of heaven and earth.” (6-8)

Categories
Psalms Devotionals 2

Not mere servants

Psalms

Behold, as the eyes of servants
look to the hand of their master,
as the eyes of a maidservant
to the hand of her mistress,
so our eyes look to the Lord our God… (Psalm 123:2-3a, ESV)

It’s easy to look at those words and think, “We as God’s servants are to constantly be looking at God, seeing what he want us to do.”

And that’s true. We should do that.

But that’s what makes the second part of verse 2 so jarring.

till he has mercy upon us. (2b)

The psalmist then cries out,

Have mercy upon us, O Lord, have mercy upon us,
for we have had more than enough of contempt. (3)

The wondrous thing about our relationship with God is that he doesn’t look at us as mere servants. He sees us as his precious ones. He truly cares for us.

And when we cry out to him, we can know he’ll hear, he’ll answer, and he will show us mercy.

Categories
Psalms Devotionals 2

Choosing to give thanks…together

Psalms

Jerusalem, built as a city should be,
solidly united,
where the tribes, the Lord’s tribes, go up
to give thanks to the name of the Lord.

(This is an ordinance for Israel.) (Psalm 122:3-4)

That last phrase really struck me.

The people of Israel were commanded to go up to Jerusalem three times a year for special festivals and give thanks to the Lord.

Obviously, as Christians, we don’t celebrate those festivals. But we are commanded to give thanks. And to rejoice. (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)

We are particularly commanded to do this together with God’s people. (Ephesians 5:18-20)

Why is it important to have a heart of thanksgiving?

I think we see the results of not doing so in Romans 1.

For though they knew God, they did not glorify him as God or show gratitude. Instead, their thinking became worthless, and their senseless hearts were darkened. (Romans 1:21)

It is so easy to focus on the problems that we face in life.

When we do that, we often become discouraged or cynical, we start doubting God, and we start thinking the way this world thinks.

And when that happens, our thinking starts to become worthless, and our hearts become darkened.

Let us not fall into that trap.

Rather, let us remember all we have to be thankful for and choose to rejoice.

And let us not avoid the fellowship of other believers, no matter what problems we may be having.

Instead, let us say with David,

I rejoiced with those who said to me,
“Let’s go to the house of the Lord.” (1)

Categories
Psalms Devotionals 2

As we are on this pilgrimage

Psalms

The title of Psalm 121 (and all the psalms from 120-134) is “A song of ascents.”

These were songs the Jews sang on their pilgrimage to Jerusalem.

But it strikes me, we also are on a pilgrimage…a pilgrimage to a new Jerusalem. (Revelation 21:2)

And it is a journey. God does not simply sweep us to heaven once we become Christians.

The journey can be difficult. The journey can at times be painful.

But this psalm reminds us of where our help comes from.

It reminds us that the Creator of heaven and earth is with us. (2)

It reminds us that he never slumbers nor sleeps. (4)

And each and every day, no matter what we go through, his hand is on us.

This psalm reminds me of Jesus’ words to his disciples.

I will not leave you as orphans; I am coming to you. (John 14:18)

More, Jesus’ prayer for his disciples (and for us) reflects a lot of this psalm.

Holy Father, protect them by your name that you have given me, so that they may be one as we are one…

I am not praying that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one. (John 17:11, 15)

Again, this does not mean we will never go through struggle or pain. Many of Jesus’ disciples died for their faith.

But God is walking with us every step of the way. He will never abandon us. And he will lead us home.

Categories
Psalms Devotionals 2

Our need for God’s grace.

Psalms

One thing that always strikes me in this psalm is David’s passion for God and his Word. He loved God and desired to live a life pleasing to him.

And yet, today, I was thinking about just how much David recognized he needed God’s grace as well.

He cried out,

If only my ways were committed
to keeping your statutes! (Psalm 119:5)

And he admitted,

I wander like a lost sheep. (176)

So time and again, he asked for God’s grace.

He asked that God would teach him. (12, 29,33, 66, 68, 108, 124)

He prayed God would open his spiritual eyes. (18)

He asked for understanding. (27, 34, 73, 125, 144, 169)

He asked for help to obey. (35)

He prayed for a heart that was inclined to God and his Word. (36)

He prayed for eyes that would turn away from sinful things. (37)

And he prayed that God would deal with him based on His own grace and steadfast love. (58, 124)

None of us are perfect. All of us need God’s grace in our lives. So each day, let us pray as David did in this psalm.

Categories
Psalms Devotionals

My gate. My righteousness.

Psalms

Father, you have opened up to me the gates of righteousness.

Jesus is my gate (John 10:9). He is my righteousness (1 Corinthians 1:30)

And now through him, I have access to you. (Hebrews 10:19-22)

So now, Father, I enter into our presence with thanksgiving, because you have answered me and become my salvation. (Psalm 118:19-21)

The stone that the builders rejected and put on a cross has now become the cornerstone of your church, Father. (Psalm 118:22, Acts 4:10-12, Ephesians 2:19-22)

This is from you, Father, and it is wondrous in our sight. This is the day you have made. I will rejoice, and be glad in it. (Psalm 118:23-24)

You are good, Lord. Your steadfast love endures forever. (Psalm 118:1)

In Jesus’ name, amen.

Categories
Psalms Devotionals

God’s love and faithfulness

Psalms

I’ve been preparing a message on the latter part of Jacob’s life this past week. Jacob went through a tough time. He lost his wife. He lost his father. And he lost his beloved son Joseph for 20 years.

Perhaps, he could have said at that time very cynically,

Our God is in heaven
and does whatever he pleases. (Psalm 115:3)

But at the end of his life, he realized, “God is not capricious. Everything he does has a purpose. And he is good.”

This song was written long after he died, but I could imagine singing to himself,

Israel, trust in the Lord!
He is their help and shield. (9)

For a long time, Jacob probably thought he had been forgotten. But at the end of his life he could sing,

The Lord remembers us and will bless us.

He will bless the house of Israel…
he will bless those who fear the Lord—
small and great alike. (12-13)

So if you’re going through a tough time, if you’re feeling abandoned, remember Jacob’s story. And with hearts filled with faith, let us sing,

Not to us, Lord, not to us,
but to your name give glory
because of your faithful love, because of your truth. (1)

Categories
Psalms Devotionals

A prayer

Psalms

Lord, you struck our Rock, you struck Jesus on the cross and now through him we have living water.

Quench our spiritual thirst. (1 Corinthians 10:4, Exodus 17:6, Numbers 20:7-11, John 4:10, 7:37-39)

You brought us out of slavery to sin and Satan’s kingdom.

Now, Lord, let us be your sanctuary. Let us be your dominion. (Ephesians 2:16-22, Revelation 1:5-6)

In Jesus’ name amen.

Categories
Psalms Devotionals

The God who came down

Psalms

Psalms 113-118 were traditionally sung during the Jewish Passover feast.

When Jesus and his disciples were singing during the last supper, they were probably singing these hymns. (Matthew 26:30)

With that in mind, verses 4-6 really struck me.

The Lord is exalted above all the nations,
his glory above the heavens.

Who is like the Lord our God—
the one enthroned on high,
who stoops down to look
on the heavens and the earth? (Psalm 113:4-6)

Yet God did not simply stoop down to look. He actually set aside his glory, came down, and became one of us. And he did it to die for our sins. (Philippians 2:5-8)

And because of what Jesus did for us, we have been raised from the dust, from the trash heap of our sin, and are now seated with him as children of the King. (Psalm 113:7-8, Ephesians 2:1-7)

So as we remember that, let us sing with the psalmist,

Hallelujah!

Give praise, servants of the Lord;
praise the name of the Lord.

Let the name of the Lord be blessed
both now and forever.

From the rising of the sun to its setting,
let the name of the Lord be praised. (Psalm 113:1-3)

Categories
Psalms Devotionals

Marked by Christ’s character

Psalms

In verse 1, the psalmist says,

“Happy is the person who fears the LORD,
taking great delight in his commands. (Psalm 112:1)

But what does that kind of person look like?

The Pharisees claimed to be such people. And yet while you could say they had a form of righteousness, you could not say they were marked by graciousness or compassion.

A person who truly fears the Lord, who truly takes great delight in his commands, are marked by all three things: graciousness, compassion, and righteousness.

That’s what Jesus was like.

Too many Christians embrace the commands of God, and yet throw out graciousness and compassion.

On the other hand, other Christians embrace graciousness and compassion at the expense of God’s righteousness.

“Oh, those commands aren’t for today. God does not really expect you to live that way.”

As Christians, we need to be marked by all three.

May we all be marked by Christ’s character.

Categories
Psalms Devotionals

A prayer to our Priest and King

Psalms

Jesus, you were David’s Lord, and you are my Lord. (Matthew 22:41-45)

You sit at your Father’s right hand, and you reign. (Hebrews 1:3, 8:1, 10:12, 12:2)

Not only that, you are my priest forever. You are able to save me completely because you always live to intercede for me. (Hebrews 7:24-25)

So Lord, I freely offer myself to you in this spiritual war we are in.

We are not fighting people. But we are fighting spiritual forces that would destroy people. (Ephesians 6:12)

Use me today to touch those around me with your love.

Here I am, Lord. Send me.

In your name, amen.

Categories
Psalms Devotionals

Our joy. Our hope.

Psalms

This is pure speculation on my part, but I’ve been reading John 14-16 a lot recently.

And I just have to wonder, whenever Peter and the other disciples sang this psalm, how often did their minds go back to what Jesus told him in those chapters.

At that time, Jesus was about to go to the cross, and so he told them he was going to leave. More, he told them they couldn’t follow him to where he was going.

Peter, brimming with self-confidence, couldn’t accept this and insisted that he was willing to die for Jesus.

ut Jesus told Peter that he would instead deny Him three times. Hearing all this, Peter and the other disciples became emotionally distraught. (John 13:33-38)

So Jesus told them,

Don’t let your heart be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me. (John 14:1)

How much did those words ring in their hearts when they sang David’s words in the years after Jesus’ resurrection?

My heart is confident, God;
I will sing; I will sing praises
with the whole of my being. (Psalm 108:1)

Like David, they learned not to be confident in their own abilities, but in God and his faithfulness toward them.

When Jesus told them that he was going to leave for a while, they probably thought as David did.

God, haven’t you rejected us?
God, you do not march out with our armies. (Psalm 108:11)

But Jesus reassured them,

I will not leave you as orphans; I am coming to you. In a little while the world will no longer see me, but you will see me. Because I live, you will live too. (John 14:18-19)

Years later, filled with the Holy Spirit, knowing Jesus’ presence in their lives, how triumphantly did they sing David’s words.

With God we will perform valiantly;
he will trample our foes. (Psalm 108:13)

And whenever they sang those words, did the recall Jesus’ final words to them that night?

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)

How much did their hearts sing out as they remembered their risen Lord:

I will praise you, Lord, among the peoples;
I will sing praises to you among the nations.

For your faithful love is higher than the heavens,
and your faithfulness reaches to the clouds.

God, be exalted above the heavens,
and let your glory be over the whole earth. (Psalm 108:3-5)

Like the disciples, we serve a living Savior. Like them, let us always have hearts that rejoice in the hope that we have in him.

Categories
Psalms Devotionals

Let the redeemed of the Lord say so

Psalms

Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good,
for his steadfast love endures forever!

Let the redeemed of the Lord say so…” (Psalm 107:1-2, ESV)

Those last words really made me stop a moment.

Let the redeemed of the Lord say so.

Say what?

The Lord is good. His steadfast love endures forever.

It’s easy to say that when things are going well.

But how about when things aren’t going so well?

There are times when we sure don’t feel like the Lord is good. There are times when it seems his love has failed.

But our feelings don’t change the truth of those words.

And it is especially during those times when we don’t feel the truth of those words that we need to consciously remind ourselves: “The Lord is good. His steadfast love endures forever.”

We have such short memories. We so quickly forget all the good the Lord has done for us. That was the Israelites’ problem. (Psalm 106)

Let us not follow their example.

Are you struggling right now?

Stop a moment, and think about the good things God has done in your life. Remember his goodness to you in the past. As you do, thank him for his goodness to you.

And choose to speak out these words of faith:

The Lord is good. His steadfast love endures forever.

Categories
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”?

Categories
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)

Categories
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.

Categories
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)

Categories
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)

Categories
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.

Categories
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. 

Categories
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? 

Categories
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? 

Categories
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? 

Categories
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.

Categories
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.  

Categories
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)

Categories
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? 

Categories
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. 

Categories
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.

Categories
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.

Categories
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)

Categories
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.

Categories
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)

Categories
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. 

Categories
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. 

Categories
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. 

Categories
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.

Categories
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)

Categories
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)

Categories
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)

Categories
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)

Categories
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. 

Categories
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.

Categories
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)

Categories
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.

Categories
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) 

Categories
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?”

Categories
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.  

Categories
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?

Categories
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.

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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?

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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!!!

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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…

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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)

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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)

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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.

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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.

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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?
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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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)

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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)

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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.

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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.

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

Categories
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.

Categories
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.

Categories
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)

Categories
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.”

Categories
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.

Categories
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?