2 Peter 2:7-8 “And if He rescued Lot a righteous man, who was distresses by the filthy lives of the lawless men (for that righteous man, living among them day after day, was tormented in his righteous soul by the lawless deeds he saw and heard)”
Lord, I have always wondered something, and even more today after reading these verses. If Lot was righteous, and He must have been in Your eyes, and was so tormented daily by the filthy lawlessness of those with which he lived in the twin cities; why didn’t he take his family and move away from there? Why didn’t he move to a different area of the land that You gave his Uncle Abraham? You give us free choice. Lot evidenced that when he chose to go live there because of the fertile grazing land and easy access to water, but he could have chosen to move away, could he not, when he found what type of lifestyle abode there?
Was it because he was distressed but his wife and family were not so he bowed to their will instead of taking the responsible role of protective leadership and get them away from those influences? I know his wife didn’t want to leave. Was she the driving force in the home? Did she whine and manipulate him if he ever talked about moving? She paid dearly for looking back…was she “righteous” as well, or was she just going to be rescued because of her association with Lot? I can’t imagine what his life was like being tormented in his soul day after day.
We Americans are a mobile people, not necessarily nomadic, but mobile. If we live in an area we do not like, we can move from city to city, state to state, region to region to find a better area. I know because of the expense of moving and the fear of leaving friends, jobs, schools that are familiar, some feel trapped where they are. Was it the familiarity factor that kept them there? Lot had chosen to leave where he was and follow his uncle to an unknown land…why not once again?
It really does not matter, Lord, unless I am to learn not to ever be like Lot’s wife. These are just some “why?” questions kids ask, and You do not owe me any answers. The important thing is to understand that You impute perfect justice to the lawless and mercy and grace to the righteous.
Friday, September 30, 2011
Thursday, September 29, 2011
Sodom, Gomorrah, and the USA
2 Peter 2:6 “If He condemned the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah, by burning them to ashes, and made them an example of what is going to happen to the ungodly;”
Would I think You would do anything less to us in the USA if we do not change our sinful ways, Lord? Would I deceive myself into thinking that You would turn a blind eye and a deaf ear to the grievous sins in our cities and tows? Lord, I am not deceived. Your church needs revival and our country as a whole needs another Great Awakening.
The world is in great peril right now. Islam is progressing like a great darkness over it. They purport, here in America, that they are a peaceful religion. However; if they are peaceful followers within it, they are not following their religion any more closely than or with as much fervor as a lukewarm Christian. Both are ineffective to their gods.
O Lord, awaken us! Shake us awake if You must, but awaken Your church to the reality that being in church occasionally (or every Sunday) and “sort of” living rightly , trying to avoid the “big sins”, does not cut it with You according to Romans 12:1-2.
In Your power alone we can return to being a nation of greatness and prosperity only because we follow the beliefs and foundations set for us by the Founding Fathers and Your Word lived out with fervor!
Amen and Amen!
Would I think You would do anything less to us in the USA if we do not change our sinful ways, Lord? Would I deceive myself into thinking that You would turn a blind eye and a deaf ear to the grievous sins in our cities and tows? Lord, I am not deceived. Your church needs revival and our country as a whole needs another Great Awakening.
The world is in great peril right now. Islam is progressing like a great darkness over it. They purport, here in America, that they are a peaceful religion. However; if they are peaceful followers within it, they are not following their religion any more closely than or with as much fervor as a lukewarm Christian. Both are ineffective to their gods.
O Lord, awaken us! Shake us awake if You must, but awaken Your church to the reality that being in church occasionally (or every Sunday) and “sort of” living rightly , trying to avoid the “big sins”, does not cut it with You according to Romans 12:1-2.
In Your power alone we can return to being a nation of greatness and prosperity only because we follow the beliefs and foundations set for us by the Founding Fathers and Your Word lived out with fervor!
Amen and Amen!
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Days of Noah
2 Peter 2:5 “If He brought the flood on its ungodly, but protected Noah, a preacher of righteousness, and seven others,”
Lord, through Dr Fowler here at Liberty University, You taught me that in genesis when you say that the world was full of violence, the word you used for violence is the Hebrew word “Hamas”. Hamas is terrorism on steroids. Noah’s word was filled with men, women, and children, who were following their father, Satan, and were committing horrible acts of terrorism against each other constantly. I find it interesting that at present, there ia a ruling party in the Middle East with the name “Hamas”. Hmmmmmm.
Lord, I found it very interesting last night as my hubby and were reading Jerry Jenkins and Tim Lehaye’s Left Behind series book “Armageddon”, that in the 16th chapter they have the character that is Satan in human form tell his 10 kings how he and God came from the same primordial soup and that just because You and the Father came out first, You lord it over him depriving him of the same standing or superior standing. In his speech he goes through history, including Noah’s time, and says how he had almost won the human world, but You had a favorite so put Noah and his family in the Ark. However; he still claims victory because he caused him to fall in the end. He states that he will win in the end when he and all of his followers defeat You when You come in the Second Coming. Lord, I know the book is fiction based on truth, but also know that in Scripture You tell us that Satan does indeed think he will win in the end.
Lord, how his pride and arrogance blind him to the truth. I do not know why You have allowed him to reign on this earth for these several thousand years, but Your ways are not my ways, and Your thoughts are much higher than my thoughts. Who can know the mind of God? Like Job, I have learned not to question You. It is Your business not mine and I have come to trust You because Your plans and timing are perfect! I praise You, Lord!
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
God Did Not Spare Angels When They Sinned
2 Peter 2:4 “For if God did not spare angels when they sinned, but sent them to hell, putting them in gloomy dungeons (Chains of darkness) to be held for judgment,”
Lord, the sin of the angels was rebellion. They chose to follow Satan when he pridefully opposed You wanting to set himself on a throne higher than Your throne. Satan still sentences people to spend their eternity with him in that awful place by lying to them. How very sad! Like the fallen angels, once a human dies, it is too late for them to change their mind and follow You, Lord.
It must be horrible for them, Lord, when they find out that all of the “niceities” Satan promised: endless gambling, wild women with no inhibitions, raucous parties with free booze and drugs in an endless festival with all of their friends, some think they will have endless hunting and fishing with no rules or limits, find out instead that they are burning in an endless fire that will not die and they can’t either. They will be in torments over the fact that they were offered the truth that You paid for their sins and they did not have to, but spurned it and chose to follow the Father of Lies and their own rebellion and unbelief and are for all eternity in this place of horror with no chance of escape.
Lord, make me, make us, more willing to spread the Good News to those who are undecided. Thank You that You broke through my own stubborn rebellion all those years ago and broke my stubborn sinful heart so I could receive Your forgiveness, mercy, love, and grace with Heaven as a wonderful bonus!
Lord, the sin of the angels was rebellion. They chose to follow Satan when he pridefully opposed You wanting to set himself on a throne higher than Your throne. Satan still sentences people to spend their eternity with him in that awful place by lying to them. How very sad! Like the fallen angels, once a human dies, it is too late for them to change their mind and follow You, Lord.
It must be horrible for them, Lord, when they find out that all of the “niceities” Satan promised: endless gambling, wild women with no inhibitions, raucous parties with free booze and drugs in an endless festival with all of their friends, some think they will have endless hunting and fishing with no rules or limits, find out instead that they are burning in an endless fire that will not die and they can’t either. They will be in torments over the fact that they were offered the truth that You paid for their sins and they did not have to, but spurned it and chose to follow the Father of Lies and their own rebellion and unbelief and are for all eternity in this place of horror with no chance of escape.
Lord, make me, make us, more willing to spread the Good News to those who are undecided. Thank You that You broke through my own stubborn rebellion all those years ago and broke my stubborn sinful heart so I could receive Your forgiveness, mercy, love, and grace with Heaven as a wonderful bonus!
Monday, September 26, 2011
False Teachers Doom is Sure
2 Peter 2:3 “In their greed, these teachers will exploit you with stories that they have made up. Their condemnation has long been hanging over them, and their destruction has not been sleeping.”
Lord, You are almighty and wonderful in all of Your ways. You are pure in Your justice and Your timing is perfect. As Your child I can rest in those attributes when I encounter these false teachers sent be the Evil One.
Your children are a weird lot. I want You to be patient and longsuffering with me, giving grace and mercy when I sin, but want Your justice to be swift with those outside the family and especially with those who are in the control of Satan and his minions. However; in Your holiness, there is no difference in my “little” sin and theirs. Only because of Your blood sacrifice on my behalf and because of Your mercy You saved me, my sins are under the blood. If I confess and repent You will restore me to fellowship and Your service.
Lord, I pray that You will keep the Evil One at bay in the hearts of our little loved ones, and not only ours, but those of the whole world. Send a great awakening, Lord, not only to the USA, but to the world.
A Mighty fortress is our God,
A bulwark never failing.
Our shelter He amid the flood,
Of mortal ills prevailing.
The Prince of Darkness grim,
We tremble not for him.
His rage we can endure,
For lo, his doom is sure.
One little word (JESUS) will fell him.
Praise to You, Jesus! You are the author and FINISHER of my faith. Hallelujah!
Lord, You are almighty and wonderful in all of Your ways. You are pure in Your justice and Your timing is perfect. As Your child I can rest in those attributes when I encounter these false teachers sent be the Evil One.
Your children are a weird lot. I want You to be patient and longsuffering with me, giving grace and mercy when I sin, but want Your justice to be swift with those outside the family and especially with those who are in the control of Satan and his minions. However; in Your holiness, there is no difference in my “little” sin and theirs. Only because of Your blood sacrifice on my behalf and because of Your mercy You saved me, my sins are under the blood. If I confess and repent You will restore me to fellowship and Your service.
Lord, I pray that You will keep the Evil One at bay in the hearts of our little loved ones, and not only ours, but those of the whole world. Send a great awakening, Lord, not only to the USA, but to the world.
A Mighty fortress is our God,
A bulwark never failing.
Our shelter He amid the flood,
Of mortal ills prevailing.
The Prince of Darkness grim,
We tremble not for him.
His rage we can endure,
For lo, his doom is sure.
One little word (JESUS) will fell him.
Praise to You, Jesus! You are the author and FINISHER of my faith. Hallelujah!
Saturday, September 24, 2011
False Teachers Bring the Way of Truth into Disrepute
2 Peter2:2 “Many will follow their shameful ways and bring the way of truth into disrepute.”
This is exactly what Satan wants, isn’t it, Lord. He wants to try to discredit You and lift himself up as god in place of you. You tell me in our word that You created him with brilliance, but it seems that he just does not get that he is defeated. Maybe he is like a strong willed child who knows they are ultimately going to have to pay. and pay dearly. for their rebellion, but until they are restrained they want to wreak as much havoc as they can to make the punishment worthwhile. Lord, I am not a genius and I do not want to lift myself above others, but even as a child I never thought that was a good idea. Maybe it was because my dad taught me very early that it was never a good idea to fly in the face of authority. He instilled a healthy fear of a father, so obeying You when I became Your child was not as difficult for me.
There are cults that have spun off of pure Christianity that give “the way of truth” a very bad image to those who are unbelievers who do know the truth. Those undecided unbelievers are led away from saving grace because of it. Lord, You said that in the last days good would be called evil and evil good. Because the curse of sin worsens each day, it is far worse now than it was even in Peter’s time.
O, Lord Jesus, come quickly!
This is exactly what Satan wants, isn’t it, Lord. He wants to try to discredit You and lift himself up as god in place of you. You tell me in our word that You created him with brilliance, but it seems that he just does not get that he is defeated. Maybe he is like a strong willed child who knows they are ultimately going to have to pay. and pay dearly. for their rebellion, but until they are restrained they want to wreak as much havoc as they can to make the punishment worthwhile. Lord, I am not a genius and I do not want to lift myself above others, but even as a child I never thought that was a good idea. Maybe it was because my dad taught me very early that it was never a good idea to fly in the face of authority. He instilled a healthy fear of a father, so obeying You when I became Your child was not as difficult for me.
There are cults that have spun off of pure Christianity that give “the way of truth” a very bad image to those who are unbelievers who do know the truth. Those undecided unbelievers are led away from saving grace because of it. Lord, You said that in the last days good would be called evil and evil good. Because the curse of sin worsens each day, it is far worse now than it was even in Peter’s time.
O, Lord Jesus, come quickly!
Friday, September 23, 2011
There Will be False Teachers Among You
2 Peter 2:1 “But there were also false prophets among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you. They will secretly introduce destructive heresies, even denying the sovereign Lord who bought them-bringing swift destruction on themselves.”
Lord, Your ultimately defeated enemy Satan never tires of being subversive and counterfeiting Your Word to deceive. Because he is the father of lies, he takes Your precious Word and twists and changes it just enough so the unwary will see the shred of truth and believe the lie instead. He knows we humans want to believe in a hero or savior of some kind or, like him in his arrogance and pride, want to place ourselves in that role. We want rules or systems we can follow or want our own set that we have concocted so we can feel good about ourselves. He creates religions that include these elements so unbelievers, and sadly even believers who do not study Your truth, are drawn in thinking they follow truth.
These false teachers and false prophets bring destruction upon themselves not only because they have rejected You, the true Savior, but also because they draw Your precious ones and unbelievers away from Your Truth. Like their father, their destruction is very near.
DL Moody’s statement to always measure anything against the measuring stick of Your Word and Paul’s admonition to be like the Bareans come to mind. I think the Pharisees and the Sadducees, in an effort to make sure they followed your law it to the letter, took Your perfect law and ended up with some 600 plus extra rules and “laws” , adding traditions they and others had to follow and totally missed the truth that it is not by our works that we are saved, but only by Your mercy You saved us. We cannot, nor will we ever be able to, save ourselves.
Satan does not care what we believe as long as we don’t believe in You, Lord or believe Your Word is true. If people listen to him and become false teachers they will not be saved and will by their choice burn in everlasting torment. And if he can keep Your children from being fervent in their study of Your Word, they will be deceived and drawn away. They will become like the Laodicean church, luke-warm and ineffective.
O Lord, may I always, by Your grace and mercy alone and the help of Your Holy Spirit, check what is being preached by Your Bible, Your love letter to me. I pray that Your Holy Spirit shield the eyes and ears of tender unbelievers and keep them from ingesting deceit into their hearts and minds. The enemy blinds them from the truth, Lord, please blind us to his lies.
Lord, Your ultimately defeated enemy Satan never tires of being subversive and counterfeiting Your Word to deceive. Because he is the father of lies, he takes Your precious Word and twists and changes it just enough so the unwary will see the shred of truth and believe the lie instead. He knows we humans want to believe in a hero or savior of some kind or, like him in his arrogance and pride, want to place ourselves in that role. We want rules or systems we can follow or want our own set that we have concocted so we can feel good about ourselves. He creates religions that include these elements so unbelievers, and sadly even believers who do not study Your truth, are drawn in thinking they follow truth.
These false teachers and false prophets bring destruction upon themselves not only because they have rejected You, the true Savior, but also because they draw Your precious ones and unbelievers away from Your Truth. Like their father, their destruction is very near.
DL Moody’s statement to always measure anything against the measuring stick of Your Word and Paul’s admonition to be like the Bareans come to mind. I think the Pharisees and the Sadducees, in an effort to make sure they followed your law it to the letter, took Your perfect law and ended up with some 600 plus extra rules and “laws” , adding traditions they and others had to follow and totally missed the truth that it is not by our works that we are saved, but only by Your mercy You saved us. We cannot, nor will we ever be able to, save ourselves.
Satan does not care what we believe as long as we don’t believe in You, Lord or believe Your Word is true. If people listen to him and become false teachers they will not be saved and will by their choice burn in everlasting torment. And if he can keep Your children from being fervent in their study of Your Word, they will be deceived and drawn away. They will become like the Laodicean church, luke-warm and ineffective.
O Lord, may I always, by Your grace and mercy alone and the help of Your Holy Spirit, check what is being preached by Your Bible, Your love letter to me. I pray that Your Holy Spirit shield the eyes and ears of tender unbelievers and keep them from ingesting deceit into their hearts and minds. The enemy blinds them from the truth, Lord, please blind us to his lies.
Thursday, September 22, 2011
Prophecy Never Had its Own Origin in the Will of Man
2 Peter 1:21 “For prophecy never had its own origin in the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.”
Lord, I know to some this may sound ridiculous, but since we are finite creatures and can’t even tell what may happen in the next 5 minutes, how in the world would we be able to tell anyone else what will happen hundreds of years in the future and have them come to fruition? Oh, I know that You have given economists and others the ability to scrutinize data in the present and then do some short term projections based on past history, but You prophecy in minute detail things that will happen hundreds and sometimes thousands of years in the future and they all come true. Men may be accused by unbelievers of having their own interpretations when they tell from Your word what is going to happen, but it is not their own idea or fabrication.
Lord, thank You for that wonderful truth and encouragement! You are in control of all history because You are in all time all the time and see it, and have in fact ordained it! That gives me great comfort!
We Have the Prophetic Word Confirmed
2 Peter 1:19-20 “And so we have the prophetic word confirmed, witch you do well to heed as a light shines in a dark placed until he morning star rises in your hearts. Above all you must understand that no prophesy of scripture came about by the prophet’s own interpretation.”
Lord, I have been in Howe’s Caverns in New Your when they briefly turned the lights off. The darkness was astoundingly complete and oppressive. Then the guide lit a single match and the darkness fled around us. It now reminds me that I am to be Your light to this very dark world in which we live.
Confirmed prophecy tells us who You are and that we were at one time outside Your family, but through Your redemption are now inside Your family. Amazing! You are the “Morning Star!
Lord, You know that there is nothing new under the sun. Ever since You revealed Your will and plan through prophecy, there have been those who have, because of their fallen nature, disputed and denied that what You foretold through the prophets would happen so deceived many. They said that what the prophets said was not really what You had told them, but merely their our interpretation. Therefore they did not heed Your warnings and paid dearly for it, forfeiting Your blessing because of arrogance and unbelief.
There are prophecies yet unfulfilled and nothing has changed. Most people do not believe the truth that You, the Messiah of the world (not just to Jews) came the first time as the God-man, and that is proven history! Some within Your church, do not believe the prophesy that You are coming again in all of Your Glory to defeat Your enemies and set up Your 1000 year reign. Lord, I am not deriding those precious brothers and sisters, but plead with Your Spirit to reveal the truth to them through scripture, or please show me the scripture to prove to me that I am wrong. Lord, I do not want my own interpretation, but want You to reveal Your Holy Word implanted within my heart.
“This is My Son, whom I love, with Him I am well pleased.”
2 Peter 1:17-18 “For He received honor and glory from God the Father when a voice came to Him from the Majestic Glory saying, “This is My Son, whom I love, with Him I am well pleased.” We ourselves heard His voice that came from haven when we were with Him on the sacred mountain.”
O Lord! What must that have sounded like to those who were there to listen? How could anyone doubt You after hearing that proclamation? This second authentication from heaven should not have been necessary at this point. Your Father had already spoken from heaven when You were baptized by John. However; this second time was more private just for the three disciples who were with Him there. You knew that even after seeing all of the miracles You had performed and having heard Your teaching, they still needed it. The Spirit speaks to me in that still small voice, but I so long to hear Your voice and the voice of my Abba, Daddy!
“This is My Son”. There is no doubt that You, Lord, are the Son of the living Jehovah, the God-man, Emmanuel. God, You are so amazingly loving and we are so wretchedly sinful. Yet You volunteered to forever leave Your bodiless condition to take on the body of a man for all eternity, so You could show us the right way to live and to teach us Your ways; knowing full well what it would cost You.
How deep the Father’s love for us.
How vast beyond all measure,
That He should give His only Son,
To make a wretch His treasure.” Stuart Townend
I still cannot comprehend it, Lord, but I praise You that it is true!
I am glad that Peter did not tell the Jews the mistake he made on that mountain as he had been forgiven. I think Peter was replaying in his mind all that took place there. Lord, thank You for making our bodies and souls the way You did to make it possible for our brains to have memories not just for remembering rules, our times tables, where to put punctuation and spell correctly, and traffic laws. We are able to remember wonderful (and not so wonderful) events of our lives in finite detail so we can pass them down to other generations. Hopefully we learn from our mistakes and become more of a blessing to those around us, just like Peter did.
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Remember These Things
2 Peter 1:15 “And I will make every effort to see that after my departure you will always be able to remember these things.” (Knowledge, perseverance, self-control, godliness, goodness, brotherly kindness, and love.)
Lord, I can relate to Peter. I feel such a burden to my children, grandchildren, and for those who might read my feeble attempts at writing each day to remember not me, but what You have taught me through Your word. Ever since I have started going through these books verse by verse in the New Testament, I have such a deeper understanding and a much closer walk with You. I still read larger portions as well, but these times with You are my favorite times.
Peter knew his time was short, just like You did while You were here, so he wanted to put so much in writing to these dear Jewish believers so they would have something to go back to after he was gone to refresh their memories. I am so glad today that he did!
Lord, I can relate to Peter. I feel such a burden to my children, grandchildren, and for those who might read my feeble attempts at writing each day to remember not me, but what You have taught me through Your word. Ever since I have started going through these books verse by verse in the New Testament, I have such a deeper understanding and a much closer walk with You. I still read larger portions as well, but these times with You are my favorite times.
Peter knew his time was short, just like You did while You were here, so he wanted to put so much in writing to these dear Jewish believers so they would have something to go back to after he was gone to refresh their memories. I am so glad today that he did!
“Help me!, Show me the way!, Save me!”
2 Peter 1:14 “Because I know that I will soon be put aside, as our Lord Jesus Christ has made clear to me.”
Lord, You have made it clear to me, simply because of my age, that I too will soon be put aside as well. At best, I have maybe 20 years or so. And like Peter, the reason I am writing this here is that so what You show me each morning will be a legacy as well, putting others into remembrance, refreshing them as a glass of cold water on a very hot day.
Lord, as I listened to Focus on the Family last night (Sept.12), I was encouraged to hear what You have done, and are still doing, in NYC. Since 9/11/01, some 2000 new churches have been planted, and new ministries to reach the lost have begun. People are asking, “How can Jesus be real in my life today?”
One story stood out to me. It was a told by an ex-military man who had survived the crash into the Pentagon. He said that he could still hear the voices of those trapped in the 1500 degree flames screaming, “Help me!, Show me the way!, Save me!”. After “work” he had to go tell a friend’s family that their father/ husband had been killed. He came home physically, emotionally, and spiritually spent. His son met him in the living room, wrapped his arms around him and said, “Dad, I am glad that God spared your life.” Then he stepped back looking him up and down trying to form into words what he was thinking. Then he asked, “Dad, what are you going to do with the rest of your life?” and promptly went off to bed. The man said he spent the entire night asking himself that same question. He came to the conclusion that he needed to go into full time ministry so he could minister to those who were alive around him who were daily “screaming” those same three things.
In my job, I am blessed to be able to minister to the first two cries of, “Help me! and Show me the way!” on a regular basis, and there are times when You have me answer the third of, “Save me!” Lord, I know You want me to stay at LU for yet awhile to do Your bidding there, and hopefully for a good while yet, but if not, I am sure You have other things to do for You in the church.
Bless You, Lord, that You would even include me as a servant. I am so unworthy except for Your grace and mercy.
Lord, You have made it clear to me, simply because of my age, that I too will soon be put aside as well. At best, I have maybe 20 years or so. And like Peter, the reason I am writing this here is that so what You show me each morning will be a legacy as well, putting others into remembrance, refreshing them as a glass of cold water on a very hot day.
Lord, as I listened to Focus on the Family last night (Sept.12), I was encouraged to hear what You have done, and are still doing, in NYC. Since 9/11/01, some 2000 new churches have been planted, and new ministries to reach the lost have begun. People are asking, “How can Jesus be real in my life today?”
One story stood out to me. It was a told by an ex-military man who had survived the crash into the Pentagon. He said that he could still hear the voices of those trapped in the 1500 degree flames screaming, “Help me!, Show me the way!, Save me!”. After “work” he had to go tell a friend’s family that their father/ husband had been killed. He came home physically, emotionally, and spiritually spent. His son met him in the living room, wrapped his arms around him and said, “Dad, I am glad that God spared your life.” Then he stepped back looking him up and down trying to form into words what he was thinking. Then he asked, “Dad, what are you going to do with the rest of your life?” and promptly went off to bed. The man said he spent the entire night asking himself that same question. He came to the conclusion that he needed to go into full time ministry so he could minister to those who were alive around him who were daily “screaming” those same three things.
In my job, I am blessed to be able to minister to the first two cries of, “Help me! and Show me the way!” on a regular basis, and there are times when You have me answer the third of, “Save me!” Lord, I know You want me to stay at LU for yet awhile to do Your bidding there, and hopefully for a good while yet, but if not, I am sure You have other things to do for You in the church.
Bless You, Lord, that You would even include me as a servant. I am so unworthy except for Your grace and mercy.
Thursday, September 15, 2011
We Were Eyewitnesses of His Majesty
2 Peter 1:16 “We did not follow cleverly invented stories when we told you about the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ¸ but we were eyewitnesses of His majesty.”
Lord, as I read this verse this morning, I was comforted again that my relationship with You is built on truth! In Your providence and wisdom, You left eyewitness accounts for us to read centuries later. We humans can come up with some very clever stories because You have given us that type of mind and ability. However; You never want us to use that ability to fabricate clever stories about You and Your work.
Reading in both the Old and New Testaments, I see Your power over nature, Your enemies, evil rulers and demons, sickness, and death. I have seen Your power and intervention I in my own life and in the lives of those with whom I have the joy to share this earthly existence, so I can write eyewitness accounts too!
You and You alone are worthy of all praise, power and majesty!
Ever since I was a new Christian and I learned about the “rapture” found in 2 Thessalonians 4:13-17, I have been listening for the “Trumpet of God” daily. I don’t know if I will die first or be wonderfully blessed to be able to experience this, but knowing You could come at any time has greatly helped me to be able to endure the trials of life. I know that they will not last for all eternity, and Your return could be today!
Even so, Lord Jesus, quickly come!”
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
After My Departure, Remember!
2 Peter 1:15 “And I will make every effort to see that after my departure you will always be able to remember these things.” (Perseverance, self-control, godliness, goodness, brotherly kindness, and love)
Lord, I can relate to Peter right here. I feel such a burden for my children, grandchildren, and those who might read my feeble attempts of writing each day on the blog. I want them to remember not me, but what You have taught me over these years since I started my verse by verse walk through Your New Testament. I have such a deeper understanding and a much closer walk with You. I still read larger portions too, but these are my favorite times with You.
Peter knew his time was short, just as You did while You were here, so he wanted to put as much in writing as he could to trhe Jews since he could not get to them all to teach them face to face. Thank You, Lord, that You prompted him to do that so we can read his very letter today and be taught by You through him. I can go back and my memory refreshed over and over again.
Lord, You gave me a precious gift yesterday in the meetings with students. One was “by chance” in the lady’s room. You connected me with a young lady who has the same heart for women’s ministry as I do. She was very excited to hear of the Titus 2 Project and we will soon start meeting for cooking lessons.
I saw You work in the life of a young man who was desperate and in dire financial need. You had brought this one to the end of himself so You could show Your love and provision for him that You had planned far in advance.
You brought another young husband and father, a soldier, who was trying not to show his frustration and irritation with the school and how we had to run things. I saw You work as I hugged him and prayed for him. He broke down in sobs and we got to the real root of the issue. He had doubted his salvation for 21 years! He will doubt no more! He was enrolled in a major that he had chosen when his real heart was telling others about You. He realized that all he had been through, You had allowed to bring him to me so You could break through to him. Lord, it was such a blessing to see You work in his life! Thank You for allowing me to be a part of Your work each day!
Lord, I can relate to Peter right here. I feel such a burden for my children, grandchildren, and those who might read my feeble attempts of writing each day on the blog. I want them to remember not me, but what You have taught me over these years since I started my verse by verse walk through Your New Testament. I have such a deeper understanding and a much closer walk with You. I still read larger portions too, but these are my favorite times with You.
Peter knew his time was short, just as You did while You were here, so he wanted to put as much in writing as he could to trhe Jews since he could not get to them all to teach them face to face. Thank You, Lord, that You prompted him to do that so we can read his very letter today and be taught by You through him. I can go back and my memory refreshed over and over again.
Lord, You gave me a precious gift yesterday in the meetings with students. One was “by chance” in the lady’s room. You connected me with a young lady who has the same heart for women’s ministry as I do. She was very excited to hear of the Titus 2 Project and we will soon start meeting for cooking lessons.
I saw You work in the life of a young man who was desperate and in dire financial need. You had brought this one to the end of himself so You could show Your love and provision for him that You had planned far in advance.
You brought another young husband and father, a soldier, who was trying not to show his frustration and irritation with the school and how we had to run things. I saw You work as I hugged him and prayed for him. He broke down in sobs and we got to the real root of the issue. He had doubted his salvation for 21 years! He will doubt no more! He was enrolled in a major that he had chosen when his real heart was telling others about You. He realized that all he had been through, You had allowed to bring him to me so You could break through to him. Lord, it was such a blessing to see You work in his life! Thank You for allowing me to be a part of Your work each day!
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
What Will You Do With the Rest of Your Life, Dad?
2 Peter 1:13 “because I know that I will soon be put aside, as our Lord Jesus Christ has made clear to me.”
Lord, You have made it clear to me, simply because of my age since You have kept me really healthy up to now, that I will soon be put aside as well. Like Peter, the reason I am writing what You show me each morning from Your Word both here and the blog on the internet, is to leave a legacy of remembrance for my family and all others who might read it. You have done such great things and have taught me so much and I want to share it with others that they too might be blessed. I pray that this is like a cup of cold water to those who read it.
Lord, as I listened to Focus on the Family last night on the ride home from work, I was encouraged at what You are doing in NYC because of 9-11-01. 2000 new churches have been planted and countless ministries started. People there are asking, “How can Jesus be real to me today?”
One particular story stood out to me though. It was a story told by a military man who worked at the Pentagon. He survived the crash into his building on 9-11, but countless others died before his eyes. He said he could hear from the 1500 degree flames cries of, “Help me!”, “Show me the way!”, “Save me!”. After “work” he had to go tell a friend’s family that their dad and husband had been killed in the attack. He came home emotionally, physically, and spiritually spent. His son came into the living room where he was and wrapped his arms around him and said, “Dad, I am very thankful that God spared your life today.” The son stepped back and looked his dad up and down trying to form is thoughts. He looked his dad in the eyes and asked, “Dad, what are you going to do with the rest of your life?” and then went to bed. The man said that after a sleepless night thinking about that question, he decided the only thing he could do would be to give his life to the Lord for full time ministry to help those who are still crying out, “Help me!”, “Show me the way!”, “Save me!”.
Lord, I am so blessed in my job at Liberty University that daily I get to minister to the first two cries, and sometimes the third as well. Lord, I know You want me to stay there for awhile yet. How long is in Your hands. I know my time is growing short because of my age, but to my knowledge there is no forced retirement there, as the school sees the benefit of the wisdom we “elders” have to share. I will stay as long as You keep my mind and body strong unless You move me somewhere else to do something else for You.
Bless You, Lord, that You would even include me as a servant as I am so unworthy except for Your grace and mercy in my life.
Lord, You have made it clear to me, simply because of my age since You have kept me really healthy up to now, that I will soon be put aside as well. Like Peter, the reason I am writing what You show me each morning from Your Word both here and the blog on the internet, is to leave a legacy of remembrance for my family and all others who might read it. You have done such great things and have taught me so much and I want to share it with others that they too might be blessed. I pray that this is like a cup of cold water to those who read it.
Lord, as I listened to Focus on the Family last night on the ride home from work, I was encouraged at what You are doing in NYC because of 9-11-01. 2000 new churches have been planted and countless ministries started. People there are asking, “How can Jesus be real to me today?”
One particular story stood out to me though. It was a story told by a military man who worked at the Pentagon. He survived the crash into his building on 9-11, but countless others died before his eyes. He said he could hear from the 1500 degree flames cries of, “Help me!”, “Show me the way!”, “Save me!”. After “work” he had to go tell a friend’s family that their dad and husband had been killed in the attack. He came home emotionally, physically, and spiritually spent. His son came into the living room where he was and wrapped his arms around him and said, “Dad, I am very thankful that God spared your life today.” The son stepped back and looked his dad up and down trying to form is thoughts. He looked his dad in the eyes and asked, “Dad, what are you going to do with the rest of your life?” and then went to bed. The man said that after a sleepless night thinking about that question, he decided the only thing he could do would be to give his life to the Lord for full time ministry to help those who are still crying out, “Help me!”, “Show me the way!”, “Save me!”.
Lord, I am so blessed in my job at Liberty University that daily I get to minister to the first two cries, and sometimes the third as well. Lord, I know You want me to stay there for awhile yet. How long is in Your hands. I know my time is growing short because of my age, but to my knowledge there is no forced retirement there, as the school sees the benefit of the wisdom we “elders” have to share. I will stay as long as You keep my mind and body strong unless You move me somewhere else to do something else for You.
Bless You, Lord, that You would even include me as a servant as I am so unworthy except for Your grace and mercy in my life.
Monday, September 12, 2011
Refresh My Memory
2 Peter 1:12 “I think it is right to refresh your memory as long as I live in the tent of this body.”
Lord, it is good to have our memories refreshed. Yesterday, everyone who was old enough to remember 9-11-01 in the USA and in a lot of places around the world remembered what happened in America. The twin towers in NYC were attacked and thousands were killed, the Pentagon was attacked and folks were killed there as well. All of the passengers were killed in a plane crash in PA, because some of them were ready to die rather than have the plane crash into a target in Washington, DC. Thousands gathered at these places and millions watched on TV as the names of those killed were read, bells rung, and in churches and ball parks all over the US, memorials of different types were held.
There have been sad, and sometimes scary days in my life and in the lives of my family, countless surgeries, financial woes, joblessness, family differences are part of life here, but You ultimately intervened showing Your trustworthiness.
But Lord, there are much sweeter memories too! I remember the day I got engaged and then married. I remember vividly the birth day of each of my boys and then their children. I remember their weddings too. I remember when each of them trusted You for their salvation. Such sweet times! But the sweetest memory I have is the day of my salvation, and the day of my baptism! On the first I was given eternal life and purpose for my life. On the second, I professed my undying allegiance to my Lord and Savior, identifying myself with him.
Lord, You have taught me so much over 30 plus years and I am so very grateful. Keep reminding me of them all, Lord, that I might glorify You with my life!
Lord, it is good to have our memories refreshed. Yesterday, everyone who was old enough to remember 9-11-01 in the USA and in a lot of places around the world remembered what happened in America. The twin towers in NYC were attacked and thousands were killed, the Pentagon was attacked and folks were killed there as well. All of the passengers were killed in a plane crash in PA, because some of them were ready to die rather than have the plane crash into a target in Washington, DC. Thousands gathered at these places and millions watched on TV as the names of those killed were read, bells rung, and in churches and ball parks all over the US, memorials of different types were held.
There have been sad, and sometimes scary days in my life and in the lives of my family, countless surgeries, financial woes, joblessness, family differences are part of life here, but You ultimately intervened showing Your trustworthiness.
But Lord, there are much sweeter memories too! I remember the day I got engaged and then married. I remember vividly the birth day of each of my boys and then their children. I remember their weddings too. I remember when each of them trusted You for their salvation. Such sweet times! But the sweetest memory I have is the day of my salvation, and the day of my baptism! On the first I was given eternal life and purpose for my life. On the second, I professed my undying allegiance to my Lord and Savior, identifying myself with him.
Lord, You have taught me so much over 30 plus years and I am so very grateful. Keep reminding me of them all, Lord, that I might glorify You with my life!
Sunday, September 11, 2011
September 11 Remembered
As I sit here this morning, I am taken back to that day in history when You, Lord, showed my very proud America that pride comes before destruction and a haughty spirit before a fall. We had been founded on principles from Your Word, but in our arrogance had decided more and more that we did not need You as the head of our country. Like the Israelites of old, we had become complacent with our own abilities and in our prosperity had forgotten You. You had been kicked out of our schools and were being assaulted in many ways within the populous. Sin was blatantly thrown in Your face as the homosexuals declared that they should be accepted as "normal" because You made them that way, premarital co-habitation had become the norm, divorce in the church was on the same level as it was outside, and a record number of unborn babies were being put to death daily in abortion. There was financial corruption at high levels, and even the national sport teams were involved in illegal practices. Drug abuse and alcoholism were rampant even among teenagers and children.
Then in one fateful day, Lord, you got the attention of our country and for one brief period, Americans turned back to You. I remember that the whole congress, who up to that point had been in bitter battles with each other and were almost to the person more obsessed with their own agendas than with finding out what Your will was for our country, stood on the steps united together singing "Amazing Grace". Churches that had been largely empty filled several times over with folks joining together for prayer. Schools that had not allowed prayer in classrooms opened gymnasiums and auditoriums for public prayer services. Even the liberal seemingly anti-God media was calling folks to pray for America. Neighbors who might never have spoken to each other before were coming alongside each other offering assistance if needed. America was deeply wounded and the sleeping giant was awakened to her own vulnerability. Pride stripped away, She fell to her knees to ask for Your mercy, grace and, in some instances forgiveness. The splintered, self serving, America again became a country united...almost.
So what has happened to all of that unselfishness and brotherly love, unification, and turning back to God? I believe we as a nation are more like the Israelites of old than we would like to believe. I read the book of Judges and see that they were delivered, became corrupt, You sent judgment, they cried out to You, and You delivered again. Over and over again this cycle took place. And the Scripture states that everyone did what was right in their own eyes. So it seems to be here in my America. People outside the faith declare that truth is relative and there are no absolutes. What may be true for you is not true for me because our circumstances are different. Lawlessness, fornication, adultery, abortion, pornography, divorce, pedophilia, drug abuse, alcoholism, homosexuality, crimes of greed and passion, and the me first entitlement mentality has returned in just ten years, and with a vengeance.
What will it take this time, Lord, to get the attention of the American people? What will it take before hyphenated nomenclature no longer divides us? What will it take for us to see ALL of our citizens as important and with the right to live, from our precious unborn to our elderly? What will it take, Lord, for Your church to awaken and be about Your business in this country? What will it take, Lord for America to see her need of a Savior and to not take her freedom for granted? What will it take, Lord, for our citizens to awaken and for them to be discerning again so they can determine what is true and what are lies, to see evil as evil? What will it take, Lord, for us to cry out against the violence and evil (werewolves, zombies, witchcraft, etc.) that floods our television and children's books, movies, video games, and media in all areas?
I feel we are at the brink of yet more disaster. We have experienced things in this country just over the past ten years in frequencies that surprise and horrify us: earthquakes, devastating tornadoes, hurricanes, flooding, draught, and pestilence, pollution of our air, food and water supplies. When will we awake and call on You voluntarily as a nation again? Will it take another 9/11? Dear Precious Lord, I pray not, but it would not surprise me either.
Church of the Living Risen Lord, awake! Lord, revive us! Turn us as a nation back to our roots. Christianity is under attack like never before in our beloved America. At some point soon it may be the only religion in America that is illegal to practice because it calls sin sin and folks see that as hate speech. Our young folks are being called on to fight the war on terror and are being regularly killed by Your enemy. When will we awaken, Lord? When...?
Most Holy God, please have mercy on this nation. Our sins are great and our arrogance and ungodly behavior deplorable. We do not deserve Your mercy and grace, Lord, but I thank You for what You give every day. Comfort those who have lost loved ones either in the 9/11 events or in battle since that fateful day. Be gentle if You can, Lord, I personally ask that You do whatever it takes so that our children and grandchildren do not have to live in a nation corrupted by the enemy that lies within our borders. I do not speak of any other religion, Lord, just our own selfish, arrogant, sin prone selves, as we are our own worst enemy. Help us to awaken and to again have the brotherly love, concern for our neighbors and their spiritual state and welfare as we did on that fateful day in September.
For Your good and glory, I beg of You in the name of our precious Savior Jesus Christ.
Amen
Then in one fateful day, Lord, you got the attention of our country and for one brief period, Americans turned back to You. I remember that the whole congress, who up to that point had been in bitter battles with each other and were almost to the person more obsessed with their own agendas than with finding out what Your will was for our country, stood on the steps united together singing "Amazing Grace". Churches that had been largely empty filled several times over with folks joining together for prayer. Schools that had not allowed prayer in classrooms opened gymnasiums and auditoriums for public prayer services. Even the liberal seemingly anti-God media was calling folks to pray for America. Neighbors who might never have spoken to each other before were coming alongside each other offering assistance if needed. America was deeply wounded and the sleeping giant was awakened to her own vulnerability. Pride stripped away, She fell to her knees to ask for Your mercy, grace and, in some instances forgiveness. The splintered, self serving, America again became a country united...almost.
So what has happened to all of that unselfishness and brotherly love, unification, and turning back to God? I believe we as a nation are more like the Israelites of old than we would like to believe. I read the book of Judges and see that they were delivered, became corrupt, You sent judgment, they cried out to You, and You delivered again. Over and over again this cycle took place. And the Scripture states that everyone did what was right in their own eyes. So it seems to be here in my America. People outside the faith declare that truth is relative and there are no absolutes. What may be true for you is not true for me because our circumstances are different. Lawlessness, fornication, adultery, abortion, pornography, divorce, pedophilia, drug abuse, alcoholism, homosexuality, crimes of greed and passion, and the me first entitlement mentality has returned in just ten years, and with a vengeance.
What will it take this time, Lord, to get the attention of the American people? What will it take before hyphenated nomenclature no longer divides us? What will it take for us to see ALL of our citizens as important and with the right to live, from our precious unborn to our elderly? What will it take, Lord, for Your church to awaken and be about Your business in this country? What will it take, Lord for America to see her need of a Savior and to not take her freedom for granted? What will it take, Lord, for our citizens to awaken and for them to be discerning again so they can determine what is true and what are lies, to see evil as evil? What will it take, Lord, for us to cry out against the violence and evil (werewolves, zombies, witchcraft, etc.) that floods our television and children's books, movies, video games, and media in all areas?
I feel we are at the brink of yet more disaster. We have experienced things in this country just over the past ten years in frequencies that surprise and horrify us: earthquakes, devastating tornadoes, hurricanes, flooding, draught, and pestilence, pollution of our air, food and water supplies. When will we awake and call on You voluntarily as a nation again? Will it take another 9/11? Dear Precious Lord, I pray not, but it would not surprise me either.
Church of the Living Risen Lord, awake! Lord, revive us! Turn us as a nation back to our roots. Christianity is under attack like never before in our beloved America. At some point soon it may be the only religion in America that is illegal to practice because it calls sin sin and folks see that as hate speech. Our young folks are being called on to fight the war on terror and are being regularly killed by Your enemy. When will we awaken, Lord? When...?
Most Holy God, please have mercy on this nation. Our sins are great and our arrogance and ungodly behavior deplorable. We do not deserve Your mercy and grace, Lord, but I thank You for what You give every day. Comfort those who have lost loved ones either in the 9/11 events or in battle since that fateful day. Be gentle if You can, Lord, I personally ask that You do whatever it takes so that our children and grandchildren do not have to live in a nation corrupted by the enemy that lies within our borders. I do not speak of any other religion, Lord, just our own selfish, arrogant, sin prone selves, as we are our own worst enemy. Help us to awaken and to again have the brotherly love, concern for our neighbors and their spiritual state and welfare as we did on that fateful day in September.
For Your good and glory, I beg of You in the name of our precious Savior Jesus Christ.
Amen
Saturday, September 10, 2011
Gentle Reminders
2 Peter 1:12 “So I will always remind you of these things, even though you know them and are firmly established in the truth you now have.”
Lord, this reminds me our dear Pastor Weiser. He reminds me just when I need it. All through my walk with You, from time to time You have reminded me to live these things and You show me what they should look like in my life. You know I get my mind on other things…good things, and then I realize that I have strayed away from the basics. Right about that time Pastor preaches a sermon on that very topic, or in a message or even part of one, I hear on the radio is just what You want me to hear. It’s uncanny how You do that! You arrange far in the minds of the preachers ahead of time to preach that message either from the pulpit or radio, just for me! Now I know it is not just for me as there have to be millions of other believers who need it at that time too…but in Your lovingkindness and omniscience, I believe You choose who listens and when.
I am so very grateful, Lord, that You send me reminders because You hold me accountable for what I know. If I fail in those areas it then becomes sin in my life and must be confessed because is not covered in the last phrase of 1 John 1:9 “and cleanses us from all unrighteousness.”
Lord, this reminds me our dear Pastor Weiser. He reminds me just when I need it. All through my walk with You, from time to time You have reminded me to live these things and You show me what they should look like in my life. You know I get my mind on other things…good things, and then I realize that I have strayed away from the basics. Right about that time Pastor preaches a sermon on that very topic, or in a message or even part of one, I hear on the radio is just what You want me to hear. It’s uncanny how You do that! You arrange far in the minds of the preachers ahead of time to preach that message either from the pulpit or radio, just for me! Now I know it is not just for me as there have to be millions of other believers who need it at that time too…but in Your lovingkindness and omniscience, I believe You choose who listens and when.
I am so very grateful, Lord, that You send me reminders because You hold me accountable for what I know. If I fail in those areas it then becomes sin in my life and must be confessed because is not covered in the last phrase of 1 John 1:9 “and cleanses us from all unrighteousness.”
Friday, September 9, 2011
A Rich Welcome into His Eternal Kingdom
2 Peter 1:9-10 “But if anyone does not have them, (knowledge, perseverance, self-control, brotherly kindness, and love) he is nearsighted and blind, and has forgotten that he has been cleansed from his past sins. Therefore, my brothers, be all the more eager to make your calling and election sure. For if you do these things, you will never fall, and you will receive a rich welcome into the eternal kingdom of our Lord Jesus Christ.”
Lord, I confess to You that it is very hard for me to understand how someone can forget that he has been cleansed from his past sins. I have known some that act in this manner, but as much as I try, I can’t understand.
I suppose if someone is a babe in the faith and then gets thrust into a war situation where he is surrounded with hardened unbelievers, death, and destruction for a long period of time and he does not find a brother so they can encourage each other in the faith, he could forget. Or if he has been discipled by the very legalistic and he finds himself surrounded by other believers who are not, he may in his own mind, hold himself above others much like the Judaizers and feel he does not need to handle others with grace.
Lord, I pray for the ones such as these, Lord. Please bring them back into that godly relationship with You that they may be effective and productive for Your Kingdom again. Lord, please keep me ever nearer to You that I may not fall into nearsightedness or blindness, for I too am just a sinner that You chose to save, not for works of righteousness that I have done, but by Your mercy You saved me. Thank You, Lord. I bless Your holy name. Thank You for Your unconditional love, grace and mercy toward me as I am still so unworthy!
Peter does not use the word salvation here, but he uses calling and election. In the NAS Bible election is translated- His choosing you
In the Life Application Bible it states in the introduction of 2 Peter that if our faith is real it will be evident in our faithful behavior. It says that growth from babyhood is essential and culminates with love for others.
I remember when I first trusted Christ. Even though I was brought up in church and my mom exemplified unconditional love for us and for others, I missed it! As I learned more and more about You and Your unconditional love for me, You made it possible for me to have that type of love for others. Lord, You above all know that I still struggle with that sometimes when I encounter an especially irritating person. Help me, Lord, with Your love just as I would a loving, kind brother. Help me, Lord, if they claim to be a Christian to encourage them with these verses so they might grow in the faith as well for they do not understand fully what You have done for them.
These verses contain such sweet and precious promises. If we know these things, we are happy if we do them! Thank You, Lord, for having these encouraging words entered into Your inspired Word so many years ago so I could read them this morning and be encouraged. Lord, I long for Your eternal kingdom. The older I get and the more I grow in You, the less I am excited about and drawn to the “pleasures” of this world.
This world is not my home,
I’m just a passing through.
My treasures are laid up,
Somewhere beyond the blue.
The angels beckon me from Heaven’s open door,
And I can’t feel at home in this world anymore.
O Lord, You know I have no friend like You.
If Heaven’s not my home,
Then Lord, what will I do?
The angels beckon me from Heaven’s open door,
And I can’t feel at home in this world anymore.
Sweet and loving Lord, my prayer is that when I arrive there, You can greet me with the words, “Well done, my good and faithful servant.”
Lord, I confess to You that it is very hard for me to understand how someone can forget that he has been cleansed from his past sins. I have known some that act in this manner, but as much as I try, I can’t understand.
I suppose if someone is a babe in the faith and then gets thrust into a war situation where he is surrounded with hardened unbelievers, death, and destruction for a long period of time and he does not find a brother so they can encourage each other in the faith, he could forget. Or if he has been discipled by the very legalistic and he finds himself surrounded by other believers who are not, he may in his own mind, hold himself above others much like the Judaizers and feel he does not need to handle others with grace.
Lord, I pray for the ones such as these, Lord. Please bring them back into that godly relationship with You that they may be effective and productive for Your Kingdom again. Lord, please keep me ever nearer to You that I may not fall into nearsightedness or blindness, for I too am just a sinner that You chose to save, not for works of righteousness that I have done, but by Your mercy You saved me. Thank You, Lord. I bless Your holy name. Thank You for Your unconditional love, grace and mercy toward me as I am still so unworthy!
Peter does not use the word salvation here, but he uses calling and election. In the NAS Bible election is translated- His choosing you
In the Life Application Bible it states in the introduction of 2 Peter that if our faith is real it will be evident in our faithful behavior. It says that growth from babyhood is essential and culminates with love for others.
I remember when I first trusted Christ. Even though I was brought up in church and my mom exemplified unconditional love for us and for others, I missed it! As I learned more and more about You and Your unconditional love for me, You made it possible for me to have that type of love for others. Lord, You above all know that I still struggle with that sometimes when I encounter an especially irritating person. Help me, Lord, with Your love just as I would a loving, kind brother. Help me, Lord, if they claim to be a Christian to encourage them with these verses so they might grow in the faith as well for they do not understand fully what You have done for them.
These verses contain such sweet and precious promises. If we know these things, we are happy if we do them! Thank You, Lord, for having these encouraging words entered into Your inspired Word so many years ago so I could read them this morning and be encouraged. Lord, I long for Your eternal kingdom. The older I get and the more I grow in You, the less I am excited about and drawn to the “pleasures” of this world.
This world is not my home,
I’m just a passing through.
My treasures are laid up,
Somewhere beyond the blue.
The angels beckon me from Heaven’s open door,
And I can’t feel at home in this world anymore.
O Lord, You know I have no friend like You.
If Heaven’s not my home,
Then Lord, what will I do?
The angels beckon me from Heaven’s open door,
And I can’t feel at home in this world anymore.
Sweet and loving Lord, my prayer is that when I arrive there, You can greet me with the words, “Well done, my good and faithful servant.”
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
Don't Let Me Be Nearsighted or Blind
2 Peter 1:9 “But if anyone does not have them, (knowledge, perseverance, self-control, brotherly kindness, and love) he is nearsighted and blind, and has forgotten that he has been cleansed from his past sins.”
Lord, I confess to You that it is very hard for me to understand how someone can forget that he has been cleansed from his past sins. I have known some that act in this manner, but as much as I try, I can’t understand.
I suppose if someone is a babe in the faith and then gets thrust into a war situation where he is surrounded with hardened unbelievers, death, and destruction for a long period of time and he does not find a brother so they can encourage each other in the faith, he could forget. Or if he has been discipled by the very legalistic and he finds himself surrounded by other believers who are not, he may in his own mind, hold himself above others much like the Judeizers and feel he does not need to handle others with grace.
Lord, I pray for the ones such as these, Lord. Please bring them back into that godly relationship with You that they may be effective and productive for Your Kingdom again. Lord, please keep me ever nearer to You that I may not fall into nearsightedness or blindness, for I too am just a sinner that You chose to save, not for works of righteousness that I have done, but by Your mercy You saved me. Thank You, Lord. I bless Your holy name. Thank You for Your unconditional love, grace and mercy toward me as I am still so unworthy!
Lord, I confess to You that it is very hard for me to understand how someone can forget that he has been cleansed from his past sins. I have known some that act in this manner, but as much as I try, I can’t understand.
I suppose if someone is a babe in the faith and then gets thrust into a war situation where he is surrounded with hardened unbelievers, death, and destruction for a long period of time and he does not find a brother so they can encourage each other in the faith, he could forget. Or if he has been discipled by the very legalistic and he finds himself surrounded by other believers who are not, he may in his own mind, hold himself above others much like the Judeizers and feel he does not need to handle others with grace.
Lord, I pray for the ones such as these, Lord. Please bring them back into that godly relationship with You that they may be effective and productive for Your Kingdom again. Lord, please keep me ever nearer to You that I may not fall into nearsightedness or blindness, for I too am just a sinner that You chose to save, not for works of righteousness that I have done, but by Your mercy You saved me. Thank You, Lord. I bless Your holy name. Thank You for Your unconditional love, grace and mercy toward me as I am still so unworthy!
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
Be Effective and Productive in Your Knowledge of Our Lord
2 Peter 1:8 “For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.”
Lord, this verse is a wonderful promise! I certainly do not want to be ineffective or unproductive in my knowledge of You.
I believe the only folks who would not love to be around, and listen to, someone who exhibits these things would be the hardened unbeliever, for this behavior flies in there faces and convicts them of their own sin. To hide this, they become tough, arrogant, and abusive. They consider believers weak and unintelligent. Lord, I would rather be on Your side and suffer that abuse than to be on theirs any day for they are doomed for eternity and neither realize, nor will they believe their consequences are real.
Help me, Lord, to give grace to all that I might win some; to show brotherly kindness, godliness, self-control, and love as You would to others within the faith and without. Help me, Lord, to manifest these qualities at work and at home today in all situations.
Lord, this verse is a wonderful promise! I certainly do not want to be ineffective or unproductive in my knowledge of You.
I believe the only folks who would not love to be around, and listen to, someone who exhibits these things would be the hardened unbeliever, for this behavior flies in there faces and convicts them of their own sin. To hide this, they become tough, arrogant, and abusive. They consider believers weak and unintelligent. Lord, I would rather be on Your side and suffer that abuse than to be on theirs any day for they are doomed for eternity and neither realize, nor will they believe their consequences are real.
Help me, Lord, to give grace to all that I might win some; to show brotherly kindness, godliness, self-control, and love as You would to others within the faith and without. Help me, Lord, to manifest these qualities at work and at home today in all situations.
Monday, September 5, 2011
Mercy Saw Me
This song has become my life's song. I finally found all of the words, so thought I'd share them with you too: I can't find out who wrote it though, so my apologies to the creator of this beautiful piece.
Mercy Saw Me
The years have left scars.
The scars have left pain.
How could he recognize me?
I wasn’t the same.
I knew I must pay and I knew the price
For justice and law demanded my life.
But His tender heart heard my desperate cry,
and He looked at me through merciful eyes.
Beautiful! That’s how mercy saw me.
Though I was broken and so lost,
Mercy looks past all my faults.
The justice of God saw what I had done,
But mercy saw me through me through the Son.
Not what I was, but what I could be.
That’s how mercy saw me.
Wherever you go, you can’t go too far,
That His eyes of mercy can’t see where you are.
He loves you too much to leave you alone.
You’re flesh of His flesh
And bone of His bone.
Yet His heart cries out for your heart today.
See yourself through His eyes and then you will say:
Beautiful! That’s how mercy saw me.
Though I was broken and so lost,
Mercy looks past all my faults.
The justice of God saw what I had done,
But mercy saw me through me through the Son.
Not what I was, but what I could be.
That’s how mercy saw me.
Mercy Saw Me
The years have left scars.
The scars have left pain.
How could he recognize me?
I wasn’t the same.
I knew I must pay and I knew the price
For justice and law demanded my life.
But His tender heart heard my desperate cry,
and He looked at me through merciful eyes.
Beautiful! That’s how mercy saw me.
Though I was broken and so lost,
Mercy looks past all my faults.
The justice of God saw what I had done,
But mercy saw me through me through the Son.
Not what I was, but what I could be.
That’s how mercy saw me.
Wherever you go, you can’t go too far,
That His eyes of mercy can’t see where you are.
He loves you too much to leave you alone.
You’re flesh of His flesh
And bone of His bone.
Yet His heart cries out for your heart today.
See yourself through His eyes and then you will say:
Beautiful! That’s how mercy saw me.
Though I was broken and so lost,
Mercy looks past all my faults.
The justice of God saw what I had done,
But mercy saw me through me through the Son.
Not what I was, but what I could be.
That’s how mercy saw me.
And to Brotherly Kndness, Love
2 Peter 1:7b“And to brotherly kindness, love,”
O Sweet Savior! There is no greater picture of true love than You. I need to look at You and Your love after which I should fashion my life. You wanted me to have an explicit picture of how love acts, so You gave Paul the unction to pen 1 Corinthians 13:4-8a:
Love:
O Sweet Savior! There is no greater picture of true love than You. I need to look at You and Your love after which I should fashion my life. You wanted me to have an explicit picture of how love acts, so You gave Paul the unction to pen 1 Corinthians 13:4-8a:
Love:
· Is patient
· Is kind
· Does not envy
· Does not boast
· Is not proud
· Is not rude
· Is not self-seeking
· Is not easily angered
· Keeps no record of wrongs
· Does not delight in evil
· But rejoices with the truth
· Always protects
· Always trusts
· Always hopes
· Always perseveres
· Never fails
Lord, I need a “Love Meter” that hangs before my eyes that would make me look at it whenever I think about, speak to or about, or interact with another brother or sister! But Lord, I have an internal meter that speaks in the “still small voice” to my heart. His name is Your Holy Spirit! Thank You for sending Him to me! May I always hear his “metering” in my life.
And to godliness, brotherly kindness
2 Peter 1:7 “and to godliness, brotherly kindness,”
Lord, I reverence You today. A day set apart to worship and adore You, to gather with other Christians for fellowship, teaching, and lifting praise to You.
Adding brotherly kindness does not seem like so great a request…but oh, how we need to be reminded of that when I come in contact with a brother or sister who needs LOTS of grace! Then it becomes an act of willful obedience and a sacrifice of praise to You.
What might “brotherly kindness” look like in my life, Lord? I believe it would be serving someone who has not asked for service, coming alongside a hurting one to pray for and encourage them, sending a small note or gift to someone who is struggling in some way, or is might be something unseen by anyone like picking up paper towels or shreds of toilet paper off the floor in a public restroom so the folks who have to clean them several times a day don’t have to. Or maybe something as simple as saying thank you to someone who is serving me and letting them know how much I really appreciate their service, or volunteering to take care of someone’s pet while they are away for a weekend.
Maybe as a parent or grandparent it means bending down to tie a little one’s shoe even though they are old enough to do it themselves, or giving them a hug or praying with them before they go out into the “world” of school (Christian or not). Maybe it is giving a treat just because of grace.
Lord you give me so many opportunities to be kind to those brothers and sisters you have placed around me. May I never be too busy, to blind to one’s need, or consider myself above showing brotherly kindness to even one of them.
Lord, I reverence You today. A day set apart to worship and adore You, to gather with other Christians for fellowship, teaching, and lifting praise to You.
Adding brotherly kindness does not seem like so great a request…but oh, how we need to be reminded of that when I come in contact with a brother or sister who needs LOTS of grace! Then it becomes an act of willful obedience and a sacrifice of praise to You.
What might “brotherly kindness” look like in my life, Lord? I believe it would be serving someone who has not asked for service, coming alongside a hurting one to pray for and encourage them, sending a small note or gift to someone who is struggling in some way, or is might be something unseen by anyone like picking up paper towels or shreds of toilet paper off the floor in a public restroom so the folks who have to clean them several times a day don’t have to. Or maybe something as simple as saying thank you to someone who is serving me and letting them know how much I really appreciate their service, or volunteering to take care of someone’s pet while they are away for a weekend.
Maybe as a parent or grandparent it means bending down to tie a little one’s shoe even though they are old enough to do it themselves, or giving them a hug or praying with them before they go out into the “world” of school (Christian or not). Maybe it is giving a treat just because of grace.
Lord you give me so many opportunities to be kind to those brothers and sisters you have placed around me. May I never be too busy, to blind to one’s need, or consider myself above showing brotherly kindness to even one of them.
Saturday, September 3, 2011
And to Perseverance, Godliness
2 Peter 1:6c “And to perseverance, godliness,”
My Lord and my God, show me what godliness looks like, and should look like, in my daily life.
Webster’s dictionary says that godliness if holiness or righteousness. Holiness means belonging to, or devoted to God, sacred, pious, religious, or morally perfect. Well, Lord, You and I both know that I am not morally perfect, though I strive to be. There are little things that crop up in us:
· Trying to think of ways to get out of doing something unpleasant You have asked me to do (maybe through my husband, family members, pastors, or co-workers).
· Sending something personal to the printer at work.
· Unkind words thought or spoken which shows the condition of my heart
· Half doing a job instead of giving it all our full attention.
Lord, you know the list better than we do at times.
I also know that godliness does not come instantly when one becomes a Christ Follower. Our “position” is in righteousness because of Your precious blood shed for us, but our thoughts and actions are transformed by Your Holy Spirit over time as our knowledge of You, Your ways, and power in our lives increases.
Bless You, Lord for the forgiveness You bestow on us when we confess and repent. You restore us to service instead of casting us aside as the unworthy vessels that we are.
Friday, September 2, 2011
And to Self-Control, Perseverance
2 Peter 1: 6b “and to self-control, perseverance,”
Lord, this morning, I confess that I want the benefits that come from perseverance without having to go through what I would need to go through to obtain those benefits, and I fear I am not alone. We live in such an “instant” society: texting, cell coverage, instant messaging…instant food! Perseverance takes time and sometimes a LONG time to develop.
When I am encouraging my students to not give up in their search for outside scholarships, I always tell them that You want us to learn perseverance and encourage them to not give up the search, but to keep on keeping on. When I learn of someone struggling in a permanent relationship, I always encourage them to persevere. If a student comes to me and starts talking about dropping out of the semester because it is too hard, they are homesick, or they just don’t seem to like the school, I always encourage them to stick it out, at least until the end of the semester…to persevere. When my children come to me for advice because they are in trials either in their education, job search, or just in parenting, in so many words I encourage them to persevere.
Lord, when it comes to me…do I desire to persevere too? I guess I have because I am still married to a wonderful man after 40 years, and we have had our share of trials. I am still at the same job in the same place after 14 years, and there have been trials there too (small ones, thanks to You). I still have a wonderful relationship with all of my sons, daughters, and grandchildren by Your grace and perseverance. But perseverance does not come naturally to me. It is something that must be “added” as I walk with You.
Lord, I DO want to persevere. Help me when I become weak and impatient, to remember the benefits of perseverance and to press toward the goal.
Thursday, September 1, 2011
And to Knowledge Self-control
2 Peter 1:6a “and to knowledge self-control”
Lord, I want to camp out on this passage for a while so I do not rush through but can let all of what You want me to know and obey here becomes part of my daily life for Your glory.
When I was a baby, I had no self-control. Sometimes I would nurse until I was over full and then would lose a good part of what I had eaten on my mom’s shoulder. I would emit loud body noised without restraint. (OK, I confess that still happens from time to time, but hopefully not in public!) I screamed and cried when I wanted or needed something. Babies are like that. It fell to my parents and older siblings to teach me better self-control as I got older. They also had the help of school teachers and Sunday School teachers over the years. I was taught manner and common courtesy and how to be less selfish and more self-controlled.
Lord, I need self-control in lots of areas, and now I have Your Holy Spirit to intervene in me to make me more self-controlled.
Speech:
· Do not interrupt, even if I have something to add or have correction that is needed. A fool answers a matter before he hears it!
· Hold my tongue when an evil thought pushes its way into my brain, so it does not spill out of my mouth. If you can’t say something nice, say nothing at all.
· Hold back a lie and replace it with the truth. Love does not lie but rejoices in the truth.
· Hold back bitter words and replace them with blessing. Let no corrupt communication come out of your mouth but only what will build up the saints. (PP)
· Hold my tongue and leave a conversation that is going downhill.
Eating:
· Restrain when I really want that dessert, second sandwich, second helping of something that I like and is good for me, but that I really do not need.
· By passing up the junk food and taking in a more healthy diet.
· Pass up the dessert or snack tray.
· Don’t put more on my plate than I should eat and get up when that is gone.
Exercise:
· Instead of being a couch potato, get up and get moving doing something industrious and worthwhile.
· Don’t use a handicap hang tag for convenience
· Park in a spot far from the door at work or the store instead of parking in a close spot.
Studying:
· To actually heed the time slot I have carved out for Bible Study and go into it wholeheartedly.
· To take the time to actually learn what I am supposed to be learning about the technology given me to do my job more effectively, not just go to the classes and then neglecting the knowledge I have been given.
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