God's Commandments Reveal His Love for Us-Part 2

Yesterday, we examined the first four commandments.  Our vertical relationship with God is the foundation for our horizontal relationship with others.  Jesus gave us an example of the man who built his house on the rocks.  When the storms came the house stood firm.  When we built our lives on Jesus, our foundation is solid and will withstand the storms of life.  It solidifies our relationship with God and forms the basis for our relationship with others.  However, if we fail to construct our lives on the vertical relationship with God, then it is like the man who built his house on the sand.  When the storms of life come, the house falls because it is not anchored on a firm foundation.  

The next six commandments describe the horizontal relationship with one another. 

1. Honor your father and your mother.
2. You shall not murder.
3. You shall not commit adultery.
4. You shall not steal.
5. You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor.
6. You shall not covet.

Honor your father and your mother is the first commandment of promise.  The key to societal stability is the family.  In Biblical times, you were taught to not dishonor your family or the family name.  When you read the prophets, you find that one of the reasons for the Babylonian exile was the failure to honor fathers and mothers.  

I remember my father telling me that he did not give me wealth but he gave me a family name.  I had the responsibility to not dishonor the family name.  

As you read the next five commandments, when you broke each of them you would bring dishonor to the family.  It not only reflected badly on the person who broke the commandment but also on the parents and other family members.

The sixth commandment describes murder.  This is premeditated murder.  This is not an accidental killing or what occurs in war.  This commandment describes the sacredness of life and the value that God places on life.  Our society defines life much differently than what the Bible teaches about the beginning of life and the end of life.  We change terms and descriptions in order to redefine when life begins.  We make it sound as a non-person.  The same thing applies to end of life.    

The seventh commandment is adultery.  This is applicable to both men and women.  Marriage is a sacred promise between a man and woman.  In Genesis 2:24, "therefore, a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife and they shall become one flesh."   For those of us who are married or have been married, do you remember your wedding vows?  I remember stating to my wife the following: "forsaking all others being faithful to only you for as long as both of us shall live."  God joined Adam and Eve together in the garden.  He gave them instructions concerning marriage.  Non-married men and women are told to remain pure.  Some today question the need for purity in relationships.  

The eighth commandment is do not steal.  Stealing is the dishonest acquisition of goods or assets that rightly belong to somebody else.  

The ninth commandment is do not bear false witness.  We are to tell the truth.  Justice is not served by untruthful testimony.  Our testimony bears witness to our commitment to Jesus. 

The final commandment is do not covet.  This commandment applies to our innermost thinking.  This is an inward desire to possess what somebody else has and that we will do everything in our power to obtain it.  Covet is an obsession.  It is all consuming.  It shows our true heart's desire.  

When you read each of the commandments, did you notice the verb that was used?  It was shall.  I learned many years ago that shall is a legal term.  When talking with an attorney when we were preparing an Ordinance for the governing body's consideration, the attorney would always ask the question about flexibility or rigidness.  In order to provide flexibility and discretion, the verb was always may.  It did not mandate a certain action but allowed flexibility to the governing body or the enforcement agency.  However, if we want no flexibility and to make the law absolute, the verb was always shall.  It left no question as to intent.  God's law is absolute. That is why the verb shall is used.  

The six commandments that are man to man describe the horizontal relationship with one another.  When the horizontal beam is hung on the vertical post of our personal relationship with God, it creates the cross.  God's commandments always point us to Jesus.

Today's hymn is When I Survey that Wondrous Cross

1. When I survey the wond'rous Cross
On which the Prince of Glory dy'd,
My richest Gain I count but Loss,
And pour Contempt on all my Pride.

2. Forbid it, Lord, that I should boast,
Save in the Death of Christ my God:
All the vain things that charm me most,
I sacrifice them to his Blood.

3. See from his Head, his Hands, his Feet,
Sorrow and Love flow mingled down!
Did ever such Love and Sorrow meet?
Or Thorns compose so rich a Crown?

4. His dying Crimson, like a Robe,
Spreads o'er his Body on the Tree;
Then am I dead to all the Globe,
And all the Globe is dead to me.

5. Were the whole Realm of Nature mine,
That were a Present far too small;
Love so amazing, so divine,
Demands my Soul, my Life, my All.

Have a great day serving and loving our LORD and Savior and others.  

God's Commandments Reveal His Love for Us- Part 1

Deuteronomy 5:1-3 Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)

The Ten Commandments

5 Moses summoned all Israel and said to them, “Israel, listen to the statutes and ordinances I am proclaiming as you hear them today. Learn and follow them carefully. ² The Lord our God made a covenant with us at Horeb. ³ He did not make this covenant with our fathers, but with all of us who are alive here today. 

A few days ago, the Bible Study group that I am part of at First Baptist Daytona Beach studied Deuteronomy 5.  The Children of Israel are about to enter the Promise Land.  Moses calls a town hall meeting.  He brings the entire nation together.  I can imagine them coming as tribes and clans and as individuals.  None were excluded from the meeting.  

Moses was instructing them once again the statutes, ordinances and covenant that the LORD had given them.  Israel as a nation was chosen to be a unique nation among nations.  The people were to be uniquely different.  They were to serve not only as the conduit for our LORD and Savior to come to redeem mankind.  They were to serve as God's representative to the world.  Their conduct was to demonstrate to those they came into contact with the love of God.  God's plan was for them to show others what holy living looked like.  It was God's desire that people would be drawn to Him through Israel.  

Moses emphasized that the covenant was not a covenant of the past but a covenant of the present.  The covenant was not only for the nation but was with each individual within the congregation.  

Each commandment is individualized.  Each person is responsible for keeping the commandments.  When all the people observe and keep the commandments of God so does the nation.  The family was responsible for teaching the commandments to the children of succeeding generations.  You will recall in the Great Commission, Jesus instructed the disciples to teach them to observe all the things that He had taught them.  Teaching is not just words.  It is modeling the words in daily living.  Keeping and observing the God's instruction begins with each of us committing ourselves to the LORD and stating to Him that He is ours and we are His.  

The commandments are given for our good and protection.  They are designed to protect our body, mind and spirit.  They are not only to be shown by the way we live our lives externally, but, are to be reflected in our internal living as well.  

The commandments are divided into two groups.  The first four deal with our relationship with God and His relationship with us.  The second six deal with our relationship with one another.  

As I was preparing the Bible Study lesson the other day, I thought about how the commandments describe vertical and horizontal relationships.  The vertical relationship describes our relationship with God and the horizontal relationship describes our relationship with one another.   

The vertical relationship is like a post that is set in the ground.  It is the foundation.  It is steadfast and unmovable.  

God's commandments concerning our relationship with Him are:  

1. You shall have no other gods before Me.
2. You shall make no idols.
3. You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain.
4. Keep the Sabbath day holy.

There are no other gods, only God.  When sin entered life, it created emptiness.  Ever since, man has attempted to fill that emptiness.  Man has created religion in an attempt to fill that emptiness.   Christianity is not a religion.  It is a personal relationship with our LORD and Savior.   Man has embraced pleasure attempting to fill that emptiness.  Man has accumulated stuff attempting to fill that emptiness.  It is only when we recognize that God alone can fill the emptiness can we find true peace. 

The second commandment is no idols or images.  An idol is anything that you and I are substituting for God.   Is God the focus of your life?  Does He hold supreme position in your life?  What are you withholding from God?  Anything that you are withholding from God becomes an idol. 

The third commandment is taking the LORD"S name in vain.  Our LORD is holy.  His name is Holy.  My grandmother would not use words that sound like it was taking the name of the LORD in vain.  She expected her grandchildren to do the same.  I can remember being corrected by her for using a word she felt was taking the LORD'S name in vain.  When man uses the LORD'S Name in vain we make it empty and common.  May I never forget that His Name is Holy?  My I never take for granted His Holy Name.  When I use His Name may it be always in praise.  

The fourth commandment is to keep the Sabbath day holy.   This day belongs to the LORD.  LORD prescribed it as a day set aside for worship and rest.  It is a holy day set apart from all others.  This day is like none of the others.  It is unique in character, focus, function and activity.  It is unique in that God blessed it and made it holy.  It served as a constant reminder that all things were created by God and to Him be all glory and honor for all that He created was good.  

God set an example for us in Genesis 2:1, we see God resting.  He didn't need to rest since He never grows weary or tired.  He blessed the day and sanctified it.  The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath.  The day of rest should always be a reminder that all that has been created was created by God and to Him all praise, glory and honor should be given.  

God understood that man needed rest to rejuvenate, renew, restore, and revitalize from our week of work.  God understood that man needed to change focus and activity in order to grow physically and spiritually.  

We live in a 24 hour 7 day world.  At one time I worked for two individuals whose sleep cycles were radically different.  One of them went to bed at 3.00 a.m. each night.  I would receive an email just as that individual went to bed.  The other was up at 3.00 a.m. each day.  The first email I received from that individual was normally right after 3.00 a.m.  Some mornings one or both call soon after I arrived in the office around 7.30 a.m. wanting to know why I had not responded.   

Early Church historians wrote that the early Church met on the first day of the week to worship.  The first day of the week serves as a constant reminder and celebration of resurrection of Jesus.  Second, on the first day of the week while they were gathered in the upper room, the Holy Spirit descended upon them.  As we gather on the first day of each week, it is a reminder that the Holy Spirit lives within each of us who are saved.  It was on the first day of the week that Peter stood boldly and proclaimed the Gospel message and each person heard the Good News in their own language.  At Pentecost (50 days after Easter), five thousand accepted Jesus as their LORD and Savior.  

The first day of the week has been set aside as holy because of what Jesus did for each of us.  He died that we might have life.  Sunday is not to be like any other day.  Like the Sabbath, it is a day that is unique in character, focus, function and activity.  

Today's song is Take Time to be Holy.

1. Take time to be holy, speak oft with thy Lord; 
   Abide in Him always, and feed on His Word.
   Make friends of God’s children, help those who are weak, 
   Forgetting in nothing His blessing to seek.
2. Take time to be holy, the world rushes on;
   Spend much time in secret, with Jesus alone.
   By looking to Jesus, like Him thou shalt be;
   Thy friends in thy conduct His likeness shall see.
3. Take time to be holy, let Him be thy Guide;
   And run not before Him, whatever betide.
   In joy or in sorrow, still follow the Lord,
   And, looking to Jesus, still trust in His Word.
4. Take time to be holy, be calm in thy soul,
   Each thought and each motive beneath His control.
   Thus led by His Spirit to fountains of love,
   Thou soon shalt be fitted for service above.

Where are You Fishing?

John 21:6 New International Version (NIV)

⁶ He said, “Throw your net on the right side of the boat and you will find some.” When they did, they were unable to haul the net in because of the large number of fish.

In John 21, Simon Peter and six of Jesus disciples are in Galilee.  Peter announces to the group that he is going fishing.    The others said that they were coming, too.  Peter and at least two others, James and John, were experienced fisherman.  They knew how to fish the Sea of Galilee.   The fished hard all night and caught nothing.  

When I was in graduate school in Dallas, Texas, the Church we attended had men who loved to fish.  We would leave on Friday night immediately after work and drive to a lake about an hour and half away.  We would put up our tents.  The boats would be launched and off we would go fishing.  We would fish most of the night, returning just before dawn.  These men knew the lake because they had fished there on many occasions.  There would be nights when we returned to the camp with nothing to show for our efforts. 

The disciples knew there would be times when the fish moved from one location to another.  They knew that there would be times when they would return to shore empty handed.  They had experienced this in the past.  

As they approached the shore, Jesus asked them if they had the caught anything.  They replied no.  Jesus told them to throw their nets on the right side of the boat and you will find some.  They were about 300 feet from shore.  They were most likely in shallow water being that close to shore.  Any fish they caught in this area most likely would not be keepers.  But, they did as they were told.  They didn't argue with the man on the shore who was telling them to cast their nets on the right side of the boat.  

 When Peter and the others did what the LORD had told him to do, the net was filled to overflowing; in fact it was about to break.  The disciples most likely had never seen such an abundant catch in their entire fishing careers.  If Peter and those with him had relied on their own understanding and their own experience, they would have come ashore with nothing to show for all their work that night.  

If the disciples had relied on their own understanding and their own experience, they would have missed a blessing as well as filled nets.  If the disciples had relied on their own understanding and their own experience, they would have disobeyed the LORD'S instruction.  They may have rationalized their decision to disobey by stating that they knew more about fishing the Sea of Galilee than the man on the beach.  But, they did what they were told to do.  

They may have thought that the man on the beach saw something that they could not see.   It wasn't until the nets were full that John recognizes that it is Jesus speaking.  Their obedience yielded an abundance of fish.  In fact, the nets were about to break.   

My daughter-in-law’s father, Jeff, is a great fisherman until I go with him.  We go to all the places where he always catches fish.  We troll those places fishing where he has always caught fish. We move from place to place.  But it seems that the fish avoid my baited hook. He is the professional fisherman.  I am the amateur.  He knows fishing.  I know how to bait the hook.  He knows the lakes where we are fishing.  He knows where to look for fish.  He catches fish.  I catch weeds.   I am fishing where the fish aren’t.  He is fishing where the fish are.  

In my spiritual life I have often thought about how many times I have fished on the wrong side of the boat.  I have leaned on my own understanding rather than placing my complete trust in Jesus.  I have rationalized my actions based upon my own reasoning rather than trusting in Him.  How many blessings and opportunities have I missed solely because I have not listened to the LORD and been obedient to Him?  

When Jesus called Simon Peter and Andrew, He said, "Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men."  They responded by leaving their nets and following after Jesus.  We are called to be fishers of men.  I thought about how often I fish where there are no fish and wonder why I am not catching any fish.  That night they were fishing where the fish weren’t.  The result was no fish.  

Jesus called us to be fishers of men.  How often do we fish where men who need to hear the Gospel are not?  We throw out our nets but yet no fish are in the net.  Isn’t this really about fishing and living out our faith where the lost are?  The lost are all around us.  The other day, I wrote about living out our lives before men so that they see Jesus in us.  Jesus saves.  We get the opportunity to be fishermen and participate in the haul.  It is my prayer that the nets you and I are casting will be overflowing as we trust the LORD.  

Today's song is I Will Make You Fishers of Men.  The song is written by Harry Clarke.

I will make you fishers of men,

Fishers of men,

Fishers of men,

I will make you fishers of men

If you follow me;

If you follow me,

If you follow me,

I will make you fishers of men,

If you fallow me.

Hear Christ calling,

Come unto Me,

Come unto Me,

Come unto Me;

Here Christ calling,

Come unto Me,

I will give you rest,

I will give you rest,

I will give you rest;

Hear Christ Calling,

Come unto Me,

I will give you rest.

Have a great day serving and loving our LORD and Savior and others.

Running the Race to the Finish 

2 Timothy 4:7 Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)

⁷ I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 

There are other places in scripture that describe life as a race.  Life is not a sprint.  It is a marathon.  As a child I remember reading the story about the tortoise and the hare.  As you will recall, they decided to race one another.  The rabbit jumped out to a big lead.   There was no way that the slow, methodical, plodding tortoise could catch the fast sprinting rabbit.  As you will recall, the rabbit stopped running the race until it was too late and the consistent methodical tortoise crossed the finished line first and won the race.  

The first image that Paul paints in the verse for today is that of a boxer.  He has stood in the ring.  He has answered the bell each and every round.  He has fought the good fight.  He has not given up when the fight became tough.  As the enemy delivered blow by blow, he was prepared through Christ Jesus to counter those blows.  He was victorious in the fight because he listened to the LORD.  The LORD had equipped Him to stand in the ring and fight the good fight and to be victorious.    

When I was in high school, we had an individual who was a world class runner.  When track meets were held, the stadium would fill just to see him run.  On a number of occasions, he set state records and even some national records.  He trained hard to be successful.  He ran full out through the tape.  He didn't slow down until he was beyond the tape.  He was focused on finishing strong. 

If you attended practice observed before he ran, there was something else you would notice.  The coach and he would have a discussion about how to run the race.  They knew each of the opponents.  They knew exactly how each runner ran.  Some of the runners like to run from the front of the pack while others like to run from the rear.  He knew which runners were best to run with and which ones to avoid.  He prepared himself physically for the race through training and practice but he prepared himself strategically and mentally for the race.  His goal was to win the race and received the victor's reward.  

Paul is writing to Timothy.  He knows that his time on earth is close to coming to an end.  The picture that Paul paints is one of a runner stretching out for the finish line.  He is not satisfied with just finishing.  He is putting the last ounce of energy that he has reaching for the tape.  Although I do not watch track meets on a regular basis, I do watch them during the Olympics.  On a number of occasions, I have seen the runners stretched out so far that they actually fall as they cross the finish line.  That is the picture of Paul.  He does not just want to finish the course.  He wants to leave it all on the field.    

Paul is encouraging Timothy to keep the faith.  Do not stop short of finishing the course that you are on.  Don't become weary.  Don't lose heart.  Keep on the path.  Keep your focus on Christ.  Don't allow the spirit of fear to keep you from doing what the LORD has called you to do. 

Paul is stating that there is a crown that is awaiting those who run the course and complete the course.   In 2 Timothy 4.8, Paul states "finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the LORD, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing.  

The winner of the fight or race would be awarded a special plaited wreath or garland.  It was placed on their heads to show that they were victorious.  These wreath crows or garland were never placed on the contestants at the beginning of the match or race.  It was only after they completed the contest would the victor be rewarded with the crown. 

Those who have trusted the LORD as their personal Savior will stand before the Righteous Judge at the "bema" seat or the Judgment Seat of Christ.  Paul also refers to this seat as the Judgment Seat of God.  This is not to be confused with the Great White Throne Judgment.  We as believers will not be judged at the Great White Throne.  We will stand before Christ and will be accountable to Him.  2 Corinthians 5:10 says "for we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each may receive the things done in the body according to what he has done whether good or bad."

The Judgment Seat is much different than the Great White Throne.  At the ancient Olympic games, there was a raised platform where the game judge sat.  This is the place where all the contestants wanted to stand when the contest was completed.  It was before the judge's seat that the winners would be announced by the judge and the victor's crown would be placed on their head.  The "bema" seat is a place where rewards are given, not punishment.  Our sins are already forgiven.  They have been washed white as snow.  The LORD has removed them from the books.  

In other places, Paul writes that our works will be tested by fire and what remains after the testing of fire will be the pure and refined works.  Much of what we do is nothing more than hay and stumble.  So often our outermost actions and words do not reflect our true motivations or thoughts.  As we stand before the Righteous Judge, we will see much of what we thought was important was nothing more than waste.  What truly is important is what the Holy Spirit reveals as the Will of God.  What truly is important is what the Holy Spirit empowers.   What truly is important is being obedient to the LORD and following His direction.  It is the desire of my heart to hear the words from my LORD and Savior as I stand before Him one day "well done good and faithful servant."    

Today's song is Victor's Crown

You are always fighting for us
Heaven's angels all around
My delight is found in knowing
That You wear the Victor's crown
You're my help and my defender
You're my Savior and my friend
By Your grace I live and breathe to worship You

At the mention of Your greatness
In Your Name I will bow down
In Your presence fear is silent
For You wear the Victor's crown
Let Your glory fill this temple
Let Your power overflow
By Your grace I live and breathe to worship You

Hallelujah
You have overcome
You have overcome
Hallelujah
Jesus, You have overcome the world

You are ever interceding
As the lost become the found
You can never be defeated
For You wear the Victor's crown
You are Jesus the Messiah
You're the Hope of all the world
By Your grace I live and breathe to worship You

Hallelujah
You have overcome
You have overcome
Hallelujah
Jesus, You have overcome the world

Every high thing must come down
Every stronghold shall be broken
You wear the Victor's crown
You have overcome, You have overcome

Every high thing must come down
Every stronghold shall be broken
You wear the Victor's crown
You have overcome, You have overcome

Every high thing must come down
Every stronghold shall be broken
You wear the Victor's crown
You have overcome, You have overcome

Every high thing must come down
Every stronghold shall be broken
You wear the Victor's crown
You have overcome, You have overcome

At the cross the work was finished
You were buried in the ground
But the grave could not contain You
For You wear the Victor's crown

Hallelujah
You have overcome
You have overcome
Hallelujah
Jesus, You have overcome

Every high thing must come down
Every stronghold shall be broken
You wear the Victor's crown
You have overcome, You have overcome

Every high thing must come down
Every stronghold shall be broken
You wear the Victor's crown
You have overcome, You have overcome

Every high thing must come down
Every stronghold shall be broken
You wear the Victor's crown
You have overcome, You have overcome

Every high thing must come down
Every stronghold shall be broken
You wear the Victor's crown
You have overcome

Every high thing must come down
Every stronghold shall be broken
You wear the Victor's crown
You have overcome, You have overcome

Every high thing must come down
Every stronghold shall be broken
You wear the Victor's crown
You have overcome, You have overcome

Jesus is the Rightful Heir to the Throne of David

Matthew 1:3, 5, 6, 16 Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)

³ Judah fathered Perez and Zerah by Tamar, 
Perez fathered Hezron, 
Hezron fathered Aram,

⁵ Salmon fathered Boaz by Rahab, 
Boaz fathered Obed by Ruth, 
Obed fathered Jesse,

6 and Jesse fathered King David. Then^[David fathered Solomon by Uriah’s wife,

16 and Jacob fathered Joseph the husband of Mary, 
who gave birth to Jesus who is called the Messiah

For the past several years, I have been researching my ancestors.  I took the DNA test and it confirmed what I already knew.  My family is English, Scottish, and German.

Some years ago, I went to a Scottish tent and inquired about the family name.  I told them the family name.  His reply was your family was of the royal line.  (When I accept Jesus as my LORD and Savior, my spiritual linage is of the royal line.)  He went on to state that there are two spellings of the family name.  The two clans argued and one of the clans changed the spelling of the name in order to distinguish their clan from the other clan.

Jesus linage shows that His family tree is just like ours.  It has all types of people.  They came from different backgrounds.  Some of them served the LORD while others of them didn't.  The Bible shows them as they were and reveals their sinful nature.  The Bible also reveals God's mercy, grace and forgiveness in the lives of the people in Jesus linage.   

Today's verses for the day are select verses from Matthew 1.  Matthew begins with Abraham.  The other genealogy listing for Jesus is found in Luke 3:23-38.  Luke's listing goes all the way back to Adam.  

Genealogy was traced through the father.  Jews kept exact records as to which tribe and which family within the tribe each person belonged.  Therefore, when the enrollment was decreed by Caesar, Joseph knew his tribe and family.  Therefore, when he was told to go to the ancestral home to be enrolled, he knew exactly where he had to go to be counted.  

In Matthew's account, you will notice something unusual about his listing.  There are five women listed in the list, Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, Solomon's mother (Bathsheba) and Mary.  We will explore the uniqueness of each of these women in Jesus line.     

In Genesis 38, Judah leaves his father's house and marries a Canaanite name Shua.  They had three sons, Er, Onan and Shelah.  A Scripture state that Judah took a wife for Er whose name is Tamar.   The name Tamar means date palm which denotes that she was a person of great beauty.    

Er dies because he is disobedient to God.  In order to preserve Er's line and inheritance in accordance with levirate law, Judah gave Tamar to Onan. Onan dies because he is unwilling to fulfill his responsibility to preserve his brother's inheritance.  Tamar is a widow again.   

Judah promises Tamar that when the youngest son was grown that son would preserve the inheritance rights of her deceased husband.  Judah had no intention of giving his third son to her in marriage since he placed the blame for his two sons' death on her.  

Judah's refusal to allow his third son to preserve the brother's inheritance caused Tamar to turn to deception.  She may have been influenced by the Hittite culture that required the father-in-law to enter into levirate marriage in the absence of sons to do so.  She disguised herself and took on the appearance of a harlot.  She takes as security three items that were unique to Judah's identity, his cord, his staff and his signet.  

She becomes pregnant by Judah.  When he finds out that she is pregnant he orders her killed.  She produces the signet, staff and cord that Judah had given her as a guarantee of payment.  She states that these items belong to the man by which she is carrying a child.  Judah confesses.  He marries her.  He states that "she was more righteous than I..."   Their son, Perez, is in the line of Christ.  

We are all familiar with the second woman in the line of Christ, Rahab.  In Joshua 2, we read about Rahab.  Joshua sends two spies into Jericho.  Scripture states that they came to the hose of Rahab and lodged there.  It was reported to the King that the men were at Rahab's home.  He told her to bring them out because they were spying.  Instead of bringing them out, she hid them in stacks of flax on her roof.  She confessed to the men that she knew that the LORD had given them the land.  In Joshua 2:11, look at her confession.  "for the LORD your God, He is God in heaven above and on earth beneath."  She intercedes on behalf of her family to be protected from the victory that she knows God is going to deliver.  

The men tell her to "bind this line of scarlet cord in the window through which you let us down."  It was the protective cord of God that preserved all that were within her home.  Hebrews 11:31 says "by faith the harlot Rahab did not perish with those who did not believe, when she had received the spies with peace."   Later on she marries and a son, Boaz, is born.  

The third woman listed in Jesus genealogy is Ruth.  She is a Moabite.  In the opening chapter of Ruth, we read about Elimelech, Naomi, Mahlon, and Chilion leaving Bethlehem in Judah and went to Moab because there was famine in the land.  While they were there, Mahlon and Chilion married two Moabite women.  Elimelech, Mahlon and Chilion died while in Moab leaving the three women as widows.  

Naomi decides to return to Bethlehem.  Initially, the two daughters-in-law go with her.  Naomi tells them to return to the ancestral home.  Ophrah goes back.  Ruth, however, stays with Naomi.  We are all familiar with the verse that is recorded in Ruth 1:16-17.  It says:  "entreat me not to leave you, or to turn back from following after you; for wherever you go, I will go; and wherever you lodge, I will lodge; your people shall be my people, and your God, my God.  Where you die, I will die, and there will I be buried.  The do so to me, and more also, if anything but death parts you and me."  What a great tribute to Naomi and her influence on Ruth.  Ruth is devoted to her mother-in-law.  She leaves behind her own family; the religion of the region in which she was raised; and a nation where she had lived.  She moves in faith to live amongst a people she doesn't know; to a nation where she is a foreigner; and, to a place where she embraces the living God as her own.  It is a total personal commitment.  

Ruth goes to the field to glean for wheat.  She finds favor with the foreman who is supervising the harvest for Boaz.  Boaz tells the foreman to take care of her because of her commitment to her mother-in-law. 

Naomi recognizes that Boaz is a kinsman.  She instructs Ruth on how to approach Boaz to take on the responsibility of nearest kin, the kinsman-redeemer.  Boaz tells her that there is one closer than he.  Also, he tells her that he will consult with the one who is closer.  

He meets the closer kinsman at the City gate.  This is where decisions are made.  Boaz, presents the case to the nearest of kin in the presence of 10 elders.  The kinsman was willing to redeem the Elimelech's land; however, he was not willing perpetuate the name of the Ruth's husband and preserve her husband's inheritance.  Therefore, the nearest of kin gave up his right and relinquished it to Boaz.  Boaz marries Ruth and they have a son, Obed.  Obed is the grandfather of David and the father of Jesse.  

The fourth woman in Jesus linage is identified only as the wife of Uriah.   \This is Bathsheba.  She is the mother of Solomon.  We know the story of how David saw her and lusted after her.  He sent for her and she became pregnant by David.  David tried to cover up his sin by Uriah would not go to his house when he was recalled to Jerusalem by David.  David had Uriah killed.  Nathan the prophet confronted David about his sin.  As you will recall, David's reply was that "he had sinned against God."  

When we sin, we realize that we have sinned against God.  God takes sin seriously.  Our sin can never be hidden from God.  God confronts sin.  God forgives sin and restores fellowship with Him.  But, there are always consequences to our sin and rebellion.  Sin is a choice that we make to dishonor God.  Sin is a choice that we make to reject God's guiding and direction.  Sin is a choice that we make to do things our way regardless of God's instruction.  

The fifth woman in Jesus linage is Mary.  When the angel of the LORD appeared to her, he said you are highly favored meaning that she was picked out from all the women in all of Israel to be the earthly mother of Christ.  There are two genealogies of Jesus, one in Matthew 1 and the other found in Luke 3.  You will notice that there are some differences in the listing.  Some want to use this to show that there are errors in scripture.  Conservative Biblical Scholars point out that one traces Jesus linage through his legal earthly father (Matthew's list) and the second traces Jesus linage through his mother's family (Luke).  When you read the two, you see that Matthew's list goes through Solomon whereas Luke's list goes through David's son, Nathan.  What both list show is that Jesus is the rightful heir to the throne of David.  

There are several lessons learned from these verses.  First, Jesus family line looks just like yours and mine.  Second, Jesus came to save all.  The first three were not Jewish.  They came from other places.  They accepted the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob as their own and followed after him.  Third, when we accept Jesus as LORD and Savior, He changes our future and forgives our past.  We are no longer captives of our past.  He has made us anew and a part of the family.  Finally, He is our kinsman-redeemer.

When you study the kinsman-redeemer responsibility, you see the following:

1.         If a kinsman is enslaved, the nearest of kin is responsible for redeeming him.  We were once slaves to sin.  Jesus as our nearest kinsman redeemed us from slavery of sin and set us free.

2.         The kinsman was responsible for redeeming the land.  When sin entered, Satan took control of this present age.  But, with the death of Jesus on the cross, He redeemed all creation.  In the closing pages of the New Testament, we read about the creation of a new heaven and new earth for the old heaven and earth have past away.  All things are made new because Jesus.  He redeemed creation from the curse of sin.  

3.         The kinsman is responsible for avenging the murder of a kinsman. When sin entered, we died spiritually and physical death came into existence.  Satan is pictured as a murder.  Our kinsman will administer justice to the devil and throw him in to the lake of fire which has been prepared for him and all those who followed him.  

4.         The kinsman was responsible for preserving the family inheritance.  When sin entered, man was separated from God.  Our inheritance was stolen by Satan.  Only God could restore us to His family.  He sent Jesus as our nearest of kin to do exactly that.  Jesus paid the ransom price.  

We have a Sovereign God who sent the kinsman redeemer to do what we could not do.  He redeemed us from slavery, administers justice on our behalf, restored our future and preserved our inheritance.  Thank You LORD for doing what I could not do.  Thank You for being my Kinsman Redeemer.  You are LORD and deserve all honor and praise.    

These scriptures show that salvation is for all.  It was not exclusively for the children of Israel.  When you read scripture, you see God using women in powerful ways and in places of influence.  In my own life, my mother was the one who share Jesus with me at a very early age.  She is the one who explained to me that I needed Jesus as my personal LORD and Savior.  I thank God for placing me in a home with a mother who loved Jesus.  

Have a great day serving and loving our LORD and Savior and others.  

Romans 12:2 

Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)

² Do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may discern what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God.

I have a City Manager friend who was asked recently if he considered himself an out of the box thinker.  He replied no.  He said that he was a transformation thinker.  He went on to state that he had to remove all boxes from the room in order to be a transformation thinker.  

Paul writing to the Church located at Rome, encouraged them to not conform to the culture where they lived.  We are all under pressure to conform to conform to this present age.  The word conform means to look like, replica, exact copy of.   The world desires for believers to look like they do.    

Conforming to the world's thinking is like a box.  It may be beautifully wrapped. Once you open the box and get inside, you find that it is confining.  The world's thinking presses in on all sides.  Conforming to the world thinking and lifestyle leads to destruction. 

The word transform means to make a thorough or dramatic change in form, appearance or character.  It means that we are changed from our old self into something entirely different.  The Bible states that in Christ we are made new.  We were dead in sin with no hope then when we accepted Jesus we received life and hope.  That is a drastic change.  

Like my friend said about thinking outside the box, transformation removes the sin box completely from the room.  As long as the box is in the room, we are drawn back toward it.  When Jesus made us new, He transformed us from what we were to being like Him.  Jesus backed up the moving van and took all the sin boxes away when we accepted Him as LORD and Savior.    The transformation work that He began in me will not be completed until I stand in His presence.  

The word renew means to make like new, restore to freshness, vigor, or perfection.  Spiritually speaking renew means to revive, restore strength, energy, and enthusiasm.  Paul tells us to renew our mind daily.  Just as I need food daily to replenish my strength, I need spiritual nourishment each  day to keep my spiritual body strong.  

Do you remember the Children of Israel wondering in the wilderness?  They need food.  God provided manna and quail daily.  They had to replenish their food supply daily.  They could not store manna to be used as leftovers, except for the Sabbath.  God made a provision for the food to last so that they didn't have to gather manna on the Sabbath.  The spiritual lesson is that we are to renew our minds daily just like the Children of Israel did with their physical food in the wilderness.  

As we begin the New Year, ask the LORD to feed you spiritually in 2020.  In my case, if it is not on my calendar, then it doesn't happen.  If you looked at my electronic calendar, you would see a time on the calendar set aside to pray each day.  Make it a priority to spend alone with the LORD renewing your mind daily.  Schedule time each day to read and study God's Word. Not only reading and studying the Word of God, but, mediating on the Word of God and listening for the LORD to speak.    

As I was thinking about the New Year and my Spiritual Resolutions for 2020, I remember being in the Senior High Youth group at Immanuel Baptist Church in Little Rock, Arkansas.   On the first Sunday after New Years, our leader, Carl Ledbetter, would pass out index cards and stamped envelops.  We were asked to write down our New Years Resolutions and then place them in the envelop and seal the envelop.  We gave the envelops to Carl.  Three months later, we received the envelop in the mail.  

I can recall opening the envelop and reading the resolutions that I had made on that first Sunday in January. Carl had encouraged us to write resolutions to help us grow spiritually and to walk daily closer to God.  

I remember as a 10th grader opening that envelop in April.  I read the resolutions that I had made in January.  Unfortunately, most of the spiritual growth resolutions were not kept.  The next Sunday night after we received the envelop, Carl used that time to teach us not to give up but to renew those Spiritual Resolutions we had made.  He reminded us that growing spiritually depended upon us renewing our minds daily.  He encouraged us to place those small index card in plain view as a reminder to begin our day with the LORD.  

The Pastor at Immanuel gave each teen a plaque with these words:

"Each morning lean thy arms on the windowsill of heaven and gaze upon thy God and with that vision in thine heart turn strong to meet the day."  

Have a great day serving and loving God and others.  

The Lord is the Shepherd of His People

Psalm 23 New King James Version (NKJV)

A Psalm of David.

23 The Lord is my shepherd;
I shall not want.
² He makes me to lie down in green pastures;
He leads me beside the still waters.
³ He restores my soul;
He leads me in the paths of righteousness
For His name’s sake.

⁴ Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil;
For You are with me;
Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.

⁵ You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies;
You anoint my head with oil;
My cup runs over.
⁶ Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me
All the days of my life;
And I will dwell in the house of the Lord Forever.

This is one of my favorite Psalms.  I learned it when I was very young.  Each time I read it or hear it quoted or see it in print, I think about the marvelous Savior that we serve.  

David, when writing this Psalm, writes it in the first person.  All relationships with God are in the first person.  Examine each word and each phrase David wrote. David IS praising God.  God's love, blessings, mercy, and grace are on display.  

Also, when you read the Psalm, notice the verb tense.  They are in the present tense.  I know those who study Hebrew could elaborate on it being written in the presence tense.  Throughout scripture God is always referred as acting in the present tense. When Moses asked God who he should tell the Children of Israel who had sent him, God's reply was tell them that I AM send you, present tense.  To God everything is in the present.  Time was created for man not for God.  He is.  Notice present tense.  

Think about it, you and I are always living out our walk with the LORD in the present.  We do not walk with Him in the past.  We walk daily with Him in the present.  Future is a promise based upon God's assurance.  Our hope is guaranteed.  But, our walk until God calls us home is always in the present.  Think about it, each second becomes the past as soon as it ticks off the clock.  Future becomes the present as the past ticks away and the future becomes reality.  Therefore, we live out our faith always in the present.  Yes, we have memories which are in the past.  We have to look forward.  Neither is where we walk with the LORD.   We always walk with Him in the present.  When our life is over on this earth, we will step immediately from this world into the very presence of the LORD.  

The first two words are “the LORD”.  Notice that LORD is in all capital letters.  This indicates the Sovereignty of God.  This indicates the God of all Creation.  This is an indication of God as the source of salvation.  He is our all.  

The verb used is "is".  This word means absolute. It means certainty.  It means unquestionable.  The word is a declaration.  

The word “my” indicates a person relationship with God.  It is not just a personal relationship with God; but it is an intimate personal relationship.  It indicates that I am His and He is mine.   David trusted the LORD with all his heart, mind and soul. 

The word “shepherd” emphasizes God's watchful care.  It indicates that God is directing and guiding the path that the Psalmist is walking.  The Psalmist is saying that I am following my Shepherd.  I trust Him for my provision. I trust Him for my protection.  I trust Him to be my defender.  I trust Him to keep me from all harm.  I trust Him to come after me when I depart from the path that He is leading.  The Psalmist reflects on being led to places where there is peace and where blessings are flowing from the LORD.  

I love the phrase that David writes about how the LORD sets a table before me in the presence of my enemy.  This is a continuous action of the LORD.  We live in the midst of the enemy.  God places us as examples in this world.   The world around us is evil.  But, places us where we are to be His examples.  I wrote earlier this month that we are God's personal representatives.  We are called His children.  We are called the sheep of His pasture.  We are called Ambassadors.  

He anoints my head with oil and my cup runs over.  God blesses His children.  The focus is not on the one who is receiving the blessing but on the One who is blessing.  God's blessings bring glory to Him and reveals to other people His nature and character. When blessings flow on us, others see God at work in our lives.  He uses those times to reveal Himself and to draw men to Him.  Also, blessings strengthen our personal relationship with God. 

The final phrase is “I will dwell in the House of the LORD forever”.  This is a promise.  It is assurance.  It is the realization of our hope.  So often we think about this as something that happens in the future.  Yes, we will be in His very presence for all eternity. But, you and I because of our salvation, are dwelling in the shelter of the LORD Most High right now.  This is a constant dwelling.  David realized that dwelling in the LORD does not end with this life but continues forever and ever.  It is an indication of ongoing endless opportunity to fellowship with God. 

Today's song is Eagle’s Wings

And he will raise you up
on eagle's wings
there you are
the breath of dawn
make you to shine like the sun
and hold you in the palm of his hand
You would dwell in the shelter of the lord
who abides in his shadow for life
Say to the lord, "My refuge"
"My rock in whom I trust"
And he will raise you up
on eagle's wings
there you are
the breath of dawn
make you to shine like the sun
and hold you in the palm of his hand
You need not fear
the terror of the night
nor the arrow that flies by day
though thousands fall around you
Near you, it shall not harm
And he will raise you up
on eagle's wings
there you are
the breath of dawn
make you to shine like the sun
and hold you in the palm of his hand
Fall to his angels
He's given, a command
To guide you in all of your ways
Upon their thrones
they not, there you are
lest you clash your foot against the storm
And he will raise you up
on eagle's wings
there you are
the breath of dawn
make you to shine like the sun
and hold you
and hold you
He will hold you
in the palm
of his hand  

Are You Happy in Jesus? 

Psalm 126:2 New International Version (NIV)

Our mouths were filled with laughter,
    our tongues with songs of joy.
Then it was said among the nations,
    “The Lord has done great things for them.”

Sometime ago, one of my grandsons was sitting in the back of the van.  Out of nowhere came a belly laugh.  He was watching something on his phone while we were traveling.  He had to share it with us.  After playing it back for us, he commented wasn’t that funny.    

Research shows that laughter strengthens our connection to one another.  "Laughter occurs when people are comfortable with one another, when they feel open and free. And the more laughter [there is], the more bonding [occurs] within the group," says cultural anthropologist Mahadev Apte.  God's gift of laughter allows us to connect with one another in an emotional way.  Laughter relieves tension and stress.  It causes our muscles to relax and the benefits last for up to 45 minutes after we stop laughing.  Laughter boosts our immune system so our bodies can combat disease better.  Laughter makes you feel better.  Laughter diffuses anger and conflict and allows us to move on.  These are some of the benefits of God's gift of laughter.  Have you laughed today?  

Scripture states that people notice when our mouths are filled with laughter and our voices are filled with songs of joy.  A Christian has so much to be happy about.  We have salvation.  We have eternal life.  We have the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.  We know that our LORD loves us intensely.  We know that He gave His life for us.  We have a personal relationship with God.  Our Savior is coming again.  Our LORD hears and answers our prayers.  We are part of the LORD’S family.  As I was writing I couldn't help but smile as I reflected on the great things the LORD has done, is doing, and will do.    

Christians should be the most optimistic people alive because our eternity is secure in Christ Jesus.  But, it is not only about our future that brings thoughts of happiness to mind, it is knowing that our LORD is present with us now.  God did not save just you for the future.  He saved you and I in the present.  In fact, salvation is a continuous action that brings songs of joy to my heart. I was saved. I am saved. I will be saved.  

I remember teaching our grandchildren the song "if you're happy and you know it clap your hands.....If you're happy and you know it your face will surely show it.  If you're happy and you know it clap your hands”.  I remember the grandchildren laughing as they clapped their hands, stomped their feet, and shouted amen.  As we draw closer to Him, our face surely shows it and our voices shout for joy.  

Does your face and voice reflect the great things that God is doing?    Does your countenance reflect God’s shining light?  Let your light shine in laughter and in joy.  Remember you and I are to reflect God in all aspects of our life.  

Today’s Song is This Little Light Of Mine.  The words are different than ones that I learned as a child.

This little light of mine, I'm gonna let it shine
This little light of mine, I'm gonna let it shine
This little light of mine, I'm gonna let it shine
Every day, every day, every day, every way
Gonna let my little light shine
Light that shines is the light of love
Hides the darkness from above
Shines on me and it shines on you
Shows you what the power of love can do
Shine my light both bright and clear
Shine my light both far and near
In every dark corner that I find
Let my little light shine

This little light of mine, I'm gonna let it shine
This little light of mine, I'm gonna let it shine
This little light of mine, I'm gonna let it shine

Monday gave me the gift of love
Tuesday peace came from above
Wednesday told me to have more faith
Thursday gave me a little more grace
Friday told me to watch and pray
Saturday told me just what to say
Sunday gave me the power divine
To let my little light shine

This little light of mine, I'm gonna let it shine
This little light of mine, I'm gonna let it shine
This little light of mine, I'm gonna let it shine

This little light of mine, I'm gonna let it shine
This little light of mine, I'm gonna let it shine
This little light of mine, I'm gonna let it shine

Shine, shine, shine, shine, shine 

Have a great day serving and loving our LORD and Savior and others.  Laugh a lot and  let your light shine so others see the great things the LORD is doing in your life.  

Jesus invites us to Come

Luke 19:1-9 Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)

Jesus Visits Zacchaeus

19 He entered Jericho and was passing through. ² There was a man named Zacchaeus who was a chief tax collector, and he was rich. ³ He was trying to see who Jesus was, but he was not able because of the crowd, since he was a short man. ⁴ So running ahead, he climbed up a sycamore tree to see Jesus, since He was about to pass that way. ⁵ When Jesus came to the place, He looked up and said to him, “Zacchaeus, hurry and come down because today I must stay at your house.”

⁶ So he quickly came down and welcomed Him joyfully. ⁷ All who saw it began to complain, “He’s gone to lodge with a sinful man!”

⁸ But Zacchaeus stood there and said to the Lord, “Look, I’ll give^[a] half of my possessions to the poor, Lord! And if I have extorted anything from anyone, I’ll pay^[b] back four times as much!”

⁹ “Today salvation has come to this house,” Jesus told him, “because he too is a son of Abraham.

This is an account that is very familiar to us.  It is the account of Jesus visiting Zacchaeus.  Jesus is on His way to Jerusalem.  Most likely He is traveling with a large group of travelers who are headed to Jerusalem.  The crowd that has gathered is not a reference to those that Christ is traveling with but rather is a reference to the crowd in Jericho that has gathered to see Him.  

The people in Jericho had heard about the healings and teachings of Jesus.  They most likely had heard about the raising of Lazarus from the dead.  Bethany is about 25 miles from Jericho.  They wanted to see Jesus.  They lined the streets to see him.  The crowd was so large that a person of Zacchaeus’ size would have had difficulty in seeing Jesus as he traveled through the streets of Jericho. 

There are several things that you see in this account.  First, Zacchaeus is not just an ordinary tax collector.  He is referred to as the Chief Tax Collector.  Jericho was a major exporter of Balsam.  The region was an agricultural hub.  Finally, it was on a major trade route.  It would have generated a lot of revenue.   Most likely, Zacchaeus had a number of tax collectors working for him throughout the Jericho region.  

In the Roman system, the Roman government told the Tax Collectors how much revenue they needed to pay.  The Tax Collectors paid the Romans upfront the full amount.   Then it was up to the Tax Collectors to collect from the people, businesses and those who traveled through the area.  The Roman government didn't place restrictions on the Tax Collectors about how much they could collect above the levy they had to pay Rome.  They made it possible for these individuals to cheat and steal from the people and businesses.  Of course they would most likely say they were not stealing or cheating.  They were simply charging an administrative fee to cover the cost of collecting the revenue.  

As we know, names have special meanings in this culture.  The name Zacchaeus means pure and innocent.  His parents must have seen something in him at birth that gave rise to naming the child Zacchaeus.  The people in Jericho didn't see him as pure and innocent.  He was despised and hated.  He was seen as a traitor.  He was seen as cooperating with Romans.  Jewish people would never think about going to his home to eat or stay.  Their distain and hatred for him was so intense. 

In verse 4, you read that Zacchaeus wanted to see Jesus so much that he ran ahead of the crowd.  This was considered by their society as undignified.  Men didn't run.  Also, it would have been below  a man who held so a position to run.  Zacchaeus was willing to violate cultural norms and values in order to see Jesus.  Zacchaeus was not going to allow anything to keep him from seeing Jesus.  He was willing to sacrifice his dignity in order to just catch a glimpse of Jesus.  God had already planted in Zacchaeus' heart that He needed to encounter the LORD that day.  It was to become his day of salvation. 

The tree that Zacchaeus chose was a tree with low hanging branches.  It would have been easy for a short man to climb up in this tree.  Men didn't climb trees, especially men of his position.  Zacchaeus was rejecting the societal norms and values in order to encounter Jesus.  

As Jesus walked, He came to the place where Zacchaeus was.  Jesus comes to where we are.  He is the initiator.  It is His desire that none should perish but all should have eternal life.  Therefore, He comes to where we are in order to initiate a relationship with us.  It is His desire that we draw near to Him.  As we draw near to Him, He draws near to us.  He is the One who draws us to Him, not the other way around. 

The scripture records that Jesus initiates the conversation with Zacchaeus.  He calls him by name.  Can you image Jesus walking on the streets of Jericho with the press of the people all around him?  I have always pictured the streets as completely lined.  I have pictured that there were others in trees along the route that Jesus was walking.  He came to this specific tree and sees Zacchaeus up in the tree.  Notice that Jesus calls him out by name.  This is powerful.  

Jesus knows our name.  When you and I were saved, it was the Holy Spirit who called you by name to repent and accept Jesus as LORD and Savior.  He convicted each of us that we needed a Savior.  We may have been in a group when He called; but He called us out by name.   

Our relationship with God is deeply personal to Him and to each of us.  A few days ago, I wrote about the privilege we have to address God as Abba, Father.  He is not distant to His children.  He is present and loves His children.  We get to address Him in the most affectionate term possible.  He loves to hear His children's voice.  

Jesus looks up into the tree.  Look closely at the words that Jesus says to Zacchaeus.  So often we think it is a request from the LORD.  The wording is a command, not a request.  Jesus tells Zacchaeus to come down from the tree because Jesus is coming home with Him to stay.  When Jesus said to me “come”, it was a command from the Savior to come to Him.  He was telling me to come out of sin and into salvation.  He was telling me to come and stay with Him.  So often we miss the meaning of Christ’s invitation.  The Ruler of the Universe is telling us to Come. 

In Chapter 18, Luke records Jesus’ encounter with the Rich Young Ruler.  As you will recall, the rich man asked Jesus what it takes to be saved.  Jesus told him in verse 20: "You know the commandments: Do not commit adultery, Do not murder, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Honor your father and mother." In verse 21, the young man replied "all these things I have kept from my youth."  Jesus then told him there was one thing that he lacked.  Sell all that you have and come follow Me.  Scripture says that the man went away sorrowful because he had much.  Jesus observed that it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than a rich man to enter into the kingdom.  

Here in chapter 19, Zacchaeus is a wealthy individual.  This scripture shows that with God all things are possible.  Look at his reaction when Christ enters His life and heart.  In verse 8, Zacchaeus shows what a regenerated heart looks like.  He goes beyond the requirement of the law in restoration.  He stated that he would give half of all that he had to the poor.  Remember, the rich young ruler was told to give his riches to the poor and follow after Jesus.  Zacchaeus willingly gave up his possessions.  I think he realized that it all belonged to Jesus in the first place. 

Scripture does not say whether Zacchaeus gave up his position as the Chief Tax Collector in Jericho.  If he didn't, think about the change in business practice that occurred the next day as he returned to the workplace.  Think about the directions that he would have given to those who worked for him in regard to how taxes, duties and levies would be collected from that point forward.  No longer would it be permissible to cheat and steal from the people.  No longer would they become wealthy at the expense of others.  It would have changed his relationship with his fellow tax collectors and with the people.  That doesn't mean that the people changed their attitude toward him.  It does mean that his attitude toward people changed.  

Can you imagine his employees talking about the radical change in Zacchaeus?  Can you imagine the surprise of the people who he had taken money from as he came to them with not only the money that he stole but restoring it four-fold?  Can you imagine the conversation that he had at their door that day as he brought the money to them?  

Jesus saw in Zacchaeus what his parents saw when they named him.  When Jesus entered Zacchaeus' life, Zacchaeus moved from his sinful, lost condition to being in the LORD.  The LORD made him pure again.  He was washed clean from all unrighteousness.  The story of Zacchaeus is a great example of what the LORD does when man responds to His command to come.   

Throughout Jesus ministry, you see that it is always about the people and His desire for them to come to Him and be saved.  That same call is issued today.  Come.  Is He inviting you to come?  Is He inviting you to have a deeper personal relationship with Him?  Come.  

As a young child, I learned the song about Zacchaeus.  I learned the hand motions and loved to sing the song.  Today's song is Zacchaeus.

Zacchaeus was a wee little man
And a wee little man was he
He climbed up in a sycamore tree
For the Lord he wanted to see
And as the Savior passed that way
He looked up in that tree
And He said, "Zacchaeus, you come down!
For I'm going to your house today
For I'm going to your house to stay"

Have a great day loving and serving our LORD and Savior and others.

Whose Plan, the LORD"S or YOURS

We plan the way we want to live, but only GOD makes us able to live it” (Proverbs 16:9 The Message).

God has had a plan from the beginning.  When He created the heavens and earth, He had a plan.  When He looked at Creation, He saw that His plan was good.  When He created man and woman, He had a plan.  When He looked at them, He saw that His plan was good.  He had a plan for man and woman.  God's plan was for man and woman to be stewards of His creation.  When He called Abram out of Ur, God had a plan for Abram.  His plan was for Abram to be the father of a great nation.  His plan was for Abram to go to a land that God would show him.  When Jacob and his sons and their families went down to Egypt and settled in Goshen, God had a plan.  When Moses led the Children of Israel out of Egypt, God had a plan for the Children of Israel to possess the land of promise. 

Throughout the Bible you see God's plan at work.   When man and woman chose to sin and defy God, God had a plan to save them from sin.  That plan was to be realized with the coming of Jesus, His ministry, His death and His resurrection.  God's plan was not an after thought.  It was God's provision.  

God has a plan for each of us.  His plan uses our personalities, our abilities, our capabilities, our talents, our strengths and yes, our weaknesses to create a unique one of the kind plan for each of us.  His plan for our lives is individualized, not a cookie cutter.  He puts all the individual plans together in order to accomplish His overall plan.  

Scripture states that it is God's desire for all to be saved.  It is salvation that makes us a live.  Unfortunately, most will choose to be lost rather than saved.  God did not create robots.  He created man with a free will and a will to choose.  When we choose to follow our own will not His we are on the broad path.  When we choose to follow Him we are on the narrow path, the path that He has created. 

In 2013, I had the privilege of going to Israel.  What an experience.  As we were traveling one day, we came upon a shepherd leading his sheep along a path.  The tour guide commented that the sheep were being led along the right path.  The shepherd had a plan to lead his sheep to the right pasture and to the right watering hole.  The sheep trusted the shepherd and listen for his voice to tell them that they were on the right path.  God has called us to walk with Him daily on the path of righteousness.  That path is the right path.  His told us to listen for His voice.  That is a voice of assurance.  It is a voice that tells us that we are walking in the right direction.  It is the voice that leads us to the right location.  

God has a plan for you and me.  It isn't always the plan we desire; but, His plan is better and leads to a fuller and complete life.  I thought about how God’s plans are so much better than mine.  I look back on life and see God’s hand at work.  As a teen, I had a plan for my life.  While in college that plan changed.  

As a 12 year old, I went forward and committed my life to full time Christian service.  I thought that meant full time Church vocational work.  Full time Christian service does not always mean that at all.  When asked during my high school time what I would respond that I wanted to be a pastor or work in church related vocations. 

God revealed to me that my concept of full time Christian service was wrong.  Even when I knew that full time church related vocation was not where God was leading me, I resisted changing majors .  I was taking courses that would lead to a major in Theology.  I was passing but not excelling.  I thought to myself, if I just redouble my effort, surely I will do better.  My plan led to stress and disappointment.  When I changed majors, I excelled.  I loved the courses and excelled academically.  God's plan is always better.  

I love this quote from Martin Luther King, Jr.  "if a man is called to be a street sweeper, he should sweep streets even as a Michaelangelo painted, or Beethoven composed music or Shakespeare wrote poetry. He should sweep streets so well that all the hosts of heaven and earth will pause to say, 'Here lived a great street sweeper who did his job well."

I think about my choice of where to attend graduate school.  Even when I didn't see God's hand at work at that time, it has become evident over time that His plan placed me there.  God's plan is always better than mine.  

Each position that I have held over the years shows God's plan at work.  His plan is always better than mine.  I thought about the crossroads that I have come to in life and made choices which path to follow.  I thought about if I had taken a different path my experiences would have been totally different.  Most likely, my family would be totally different.  My occupation would have been totally different.  My friends would be different.  My Church would be totally different.   I learned that God's plans is always better.    

I am fortunate to have a supportive wife , children, daughter-in-laws, and now grandchildren who shower me with love.   I look back and see the guiding hand of God as He led me from place to place and path to path.   God’s Plan is always better. 

God has continually placed me in a circle of friends and in Churches that have helped me grow spiritually.  God’s Plan is always better.   

This is my prayer.  Thank you LORD for your plan.  Thank You for leading and guiding.  Thank You LORD for all those You put into our lives. Thank You for family.  Thank You for a church that love You and is passionate about sharing Your love with others.  Thank You for Pastors who preach the Word of God.  Thank You for friends who are so supportive and who are prayer warriors.  Thank You for placing them in my life, some for short periods of time and others for longer periods and even some for a lifetime.  Thank You LORD for the love You showed me by Your saving grace.  Thank You LORD!!!  Thank You LORD!!  You plan is far better than any that I could devise.  

Are walking on the path that God desires you to walk?  Where is the LORD leading you today?  Do you trust Him to lead you on the right path or are you forging ahead on your own desired path?   Remember, no matter where you are in life, He is still working in you.  He has a plan for you right now.  Seek Him and seek what His plan is for you.  His plan is always better.  

Today's hymn is He Leadeth Me

1.He leadeth me: O blessed thought!
O words with heavenly comfort fraught!
Whate'er I do, where'er I be,
still 'tis God's hand that leadeth me.

(Refrain)
He leadeth me, he leadeth me,
by his own hand he leadeth me;
his faithful follower I would be,
for by his hand he leadeth me.

2.Sometimes mid scenes of deepest gloom,
sometimes where Eden's bowers bloom,
by waters still, o'er troubled sea,
still 'tis his hand that leadeth me.

3.Lord, I would place thine hand in mine,
nor ever murmur nor repine;
content, whatever lot I see,
since 'tis thine hand that leadeth me.

4.And when my task on earth is done,
when by thy grace the victory's won,
e'en death's cold wave I will not flee,
since God through Jordan leadeth me.

Have a great day serving and loving our LORD and Savior and others.  

Whose Plan, the LORD"S or YOURS

We plan the way we want to live, but only GOD makes us able to live it” (Proverbs 16:9 The Message).

God has had a plan from the beginning.  When He created the heavens and earth, He had a plan.  When He looked at Creation, He saw that His plan was good.  When He created man and woman, He had a plan.  When He looked at them, He saw that His plan was good.  He had a plan for man and woman.  God's plan was for man and woman to be stewards of His creation.  When He called Abram out of Ur, God had a plan for Abram.  His plan was for Abram to be the father of a great nation.  His plan was for Abram to go to a land that God would show him.  When Jacob and his sons and their families went down to Egypt and settled in Goshen, God had a plan.  When Moses led the Children of Israel out of Egypt, God had a plan for the Children of Israel to possess the land of promise. 

Throughout the Bible you see God's plan at work.   When man and woman chose to sin and defy God, God had a plan to save them from sin.  That plan was to be realized with the coming of Jesus, His ministry, His death and His resurrection.  God's plan was not an after thought.  It was God's provision.  

God has a plan for each of us.  His plan uses our personalities, our abilities, our capabilities, our talents, our strengths and yes, our weaknesses to create a unique one of the kind plan for each of us.  His plan for our lives is individualized, not a cookie cutter.  He puts all the individual plans together in order to accomplish His overall plan.  

Scripture states that it is God's desire for all to be saved.  It is salvation that makes us a live.  Unfortunately, most will choose to be lost rather than saved.  God did not create robots.  He created man with a free will and a will to choose.  When we choose to follow our own will not His we are on the broad path.  When we choose to follow Him we are on the narrow path, the path that He has created. 

In 2013, I had the privilege of going to Israel.  What an experience.  As we were traveling one day, we came upon a shepherd leading his sheep along a path.  The tour guide commented that the sheep were being led along the right path.  The shepherd had a plan to lead his sheep to the right pasture and to the right watering hole.  The sheep trusted the shepherd and listen for his voice to tell them that they were on the right path.  God has called us to walk with Him daily on the path of righteousness.  That path is the right path.  His told us to listen for His voice.  That is a voice of assurance.  It is a voice that tells us that we are walking in the right direction.  It is the voice that leads us to the right location.  

God has a plan for you and me.  It isn't always the plan we desire; but, His plan is better and leads to a fuller and complete life.  I thought about how God’s plans are so much better than mine.  I look back on life and see God’s hand at work.  As a teen, I had a plan for my life.  While in college that plan changed.  

As a 12 year old, I went forward and committed my life to full time Christian service.  I thought that meant full time Church vocational work.  Full time Christian service does not always mean that at all.  When asked during my high school time what I would respond that I wanted to be a pastor or work in church related vocations. 

God revealed to me that my concept of full time Christian service was wrong.  Even when I knew that full time church related vocation was not where God was leading me, I resisted changing majors .  I was taking courses that would lead to a major in Theology.  I was passing but not excelling.  I thought to myself, if I just redouble my effort, surely I will do better.  My plan led to stress and disappointment.  When I changed majors, I excelled.  I loved the courses and excelled academically.  God's plan is always better.  

I love this quote from Martin Luther King, Jr.  "if a man is called to be a street sweeper, he should sweep streets even as a Michaelangelo painted, or Beethoven composed music or Shakespeare wrote poetry. He should sweep streets so well that all the hosts of heaven and earth will pause to say, 'Here lived a great street sweeper who did his job well."

I think about my choice of where to attend graduate school.  Even when I didn't see God's hand at work at that time, it has become evident over time that His plan placed me there.  God's plan is always better than mine.  

Each position that I have held over the years shows God's plan at work.  His plan is always better than mine.  I thought about the crossroads that I have come to in life and made choices which path to follow.  I thought about if I had taken a different path my experiences would have been totally different.  Most likely, my family would be totally different.  My occupation would have been totally different.  My friends would be different.  My Church would be totally different.   I learned that God's plans is always better.    

I am fortunate to have a supportive wife , children, daughter-in-laws, and now grandchildren who shower me with love.   I look back and see the guiding hand of God as He led me from place to place and path to path.   God’s Plan is always better. 

God has continually placed me in a circle of friends and in Churches that have helped me grow spiritually.  God’s Plan is always better.   

This is my prayer.  Thank you LORD for your plan.  Thank You for leading and guiding.  Thank You LORD for all those You put into our lives. Thank You for family.  Thank You for a church that love You and is passionate about sharing Your love with others.  Thank You for Pastors who preach the Word of God.  Thank You for friends who are so supportive and who are prayer warriors.  Thank You for placing them in my life, some for short periods of time and others for longer periods and even some for a lifetime.  Thank You LORD for the love You showed me by Your saving grace.  Thank You LORD!!!  Thank You LORD!!  You plan is far better than any that I could devise.  

Are walking on the path that God desires you to walk?  Where is the LORD leading you today?  Do you trust Him to lead you on the right path or are you forging ahead on your own desired path?   Remember, no matter where you are in life, He is still working in you.  He has a plan for you right now.  Seek Him and seek what His plan is for you.  His plan is always better.  

Today's hymn is He Leadeth Me

1.He leadeth me: O blessed thought!
O words with heavenly comfort fraught!
Whate'er I do, where'er I be,
still 'tis God's hand that leadeth me.

(Refrain)
He leadeth me, he leadeth me,
by his own hand he leadeth me;
his faithful follower I would be,
for by his hand he leadeth me.

2.Sometimes mid scenes of deepest gloom,
sometimes where Eden's bowers bloom,
by waters still, o'er troubled sea,
still 'tis his hand that leadeth me.

3.Lord, I would place thine hand in mine,
nor ever murmur nor repine;
content, whatever lot I see,
since 'tis thine hand that leadeth me.

4.And when my task on earth is done,
when by thy grace the victory's won,
e'en death's cold wave I will not flee,
since God through Jordan leadeth me.

Have a great day serving and loving our LORD and Savior and others.  

God  is Compassionate, Gracious, Abounds in Love and Faithfulness

Psalm 86:15 New International Version (NIV)

But you, Lord, are a compassionate and gracious God,
    slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness.

We live in a world where anger abounds.  We see it daily on display in a variety of ways.  We see it on people’s faces.  We see it in people’s attitude.  We hear it in words people write and speak.  We see it in aggressive driving.  We see it on display on social media.  The list could go on and on about how anger is displayed in our society.

Many Christians write things on social media that make me cringe because of the angry words they write and language they use.  I believe that Christians should always edify Christ in words and deed.  We should be encouragers, not discouragers.  As a Christian shouldn’t we be displaying an entire different way than what is the norm for the world?  

Have you ever been in a check out line and watch a grumpy, complaining  person berate the cashier?  You see the countenance and body language of the cashier change almost immediately.    Have you notice the carryover effect?  The grumpy person has had an effect on the cashier and on those standing in line.  The cashier’s countenance was once bright and cheerful now is down cast.  A smile has turned into a frown.  An attitude of friendliness has turned into an attitude of detachment, hurt and anger.  Even those in line notice a change in the demeanor and attitude.  As light that God has placed in the world, we have the opportunity to display Him in our lives to others.  We have the opportunity to react in love and kindness rather than in anger.  Anger breeds anger.  Love, kindness, grace, and mercy breaks the binding chain of anger.  

In our verse for today, we see a number of things.  First we see that the LORD is compassionated toward us.  Shouldn’t we display the same toward one another.  Second, He is gracious.  Shouldn’t we show grace toward others.  Third, He is slow to anger. There are two types of anger.  The first is righteous anger which Jesus displayed on some occasions.  The other is what most often what we display, sinful anger.  

I thought about Jesus coming into the Temple and finding the money changers and turning over the tables and driving them out of the place of worship.  He stated that the Temple was to be a place of prayer and you have made it a den of thieves.  It was their use of sacred space for monetary gain.  It was their attitude toward people.  It was using the place that God had designated for worship and using it for something else.  It was sin.  

Every where I read in the Bible where God’s righteous anger is revealed it is always because of man's sin and rebellion.  Even when man sins, God's love is on display.   God calls man to Him and says that if you will repent I will restore and withhold My wrath.   Yes, there are consequences to our sin.  I bear the marks of the consequences of my sins.  But, by His strips I am healed.   

Even in discipline, God continues to remind us He loves us.  God has shown man the right way.  He has revealed Himself to mankind.  He has provided Jesus as the sacrifice so that we can be reconciled with Him.  Recently, I disciplined one of the grandsons.  After the discipline, I affirmed that I loved him.  Every time the LORD has to discipline me, He always affirms His love.  

The fourth thing that is revealed is that God is love.  John 3:16 reveals God's love for us.  I learned that verse early in my Christian walk.  It reveals God’s loving nature.  Paul wrote that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.  Isn’t that love on display.  

The final thing that I saw in the verse was God’s faithfulness.  The longer I live, the more I see God’s faithfulness revealed.  He has given me memory.  Those memories continually remind me that God was faithful.  Because He has always been faithful, I can count on Him to be always faithful.  

Today's hymn is  Love Lifted Me

I was sinking deep in sin, far from the peaceful shore,
Very deeply stained within, sinking to rise no more,
But the Master of the sea, heard my despairing cry,
From the waters lifted me, now safe am I.

Love lifted me! Love lifted me!
When nothing else could help
Love lifted me!

All my heart to Him I give, ever to Him I’ll cling
In His blessèd presence live, ever His praises sing,
Love so mighty and so true, merits my soul’s best songs,
Faithful, loving service too, to Him belongs.

Souls in danger look above, Jesus completely saves,
He will lift you by His love, out of the angry waves.
He’s the Master of the sea, billows His will obey,
He your Savior wants to be, be saved today.

Called to be Holy Even as God is Holy

You and I have been called to be holy just as the LORD is holy.  

In 1 Peter 1.16, we read "you shall be holy, as I am holy."   Holy is the predominate attribute of God.  In Isaiah 6:3, we read about the seraphim calling out to each other Holy, Holy, Holy is the LORD of Host.    In Revelation 4:8 we read⁸ And the four living creatures, each of them with six wings, are full of eyes all around and within, and day and night they never cease to say, “Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord God Almighty, who was and is and is to come!” 

When you look up the word holy in a Bible Dictionary, holy means a complete separation from all that is sinful and impure.  It is moral wholeness. God is entirely free from all moral evil and is absolutely perfect in every way. God is perfect, pure, complete in all ways.  

When you read the word holy spoken three times, then you know it is important.  We are made holy, not out of our own works, but rather through Jesus Christ.  To be holy means that we are regulated and directed by God's percepts.  In other words, we belong completely to Him.  

In Matthew 23:27-28, Jesus talked about our outward appearance and our inward appearance.  

²⁷ “Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You are like whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of the bones of the dead and everything unclean. ²⁸ In the same way, on the outside you appear to people as righteous but on the inside you are full of hypocrisy and wickedness.

The outward appearance is pictured as a white washed tomb.  Inside the tomb was a dead body.  One of the  meanings is to make something bad seem acceptable by hiding the truth.  The outer appearance looked like they were following and doing the work of God.  However, inwardly they were death.  Is your outward appearance a reflection of the inner self?  Jesus wants to wash you from the inside out, not just white wash the outside.  He desires that you be clean.  He desires that you be alive in Him.  

In Ephesians 5:1-2 we  read  

5 Therefore, be imitators of God, as dearly loved children. ² And walk in love, as the Messiah also loved us and gave Himself for us, a sacrificial and fragrant offering to God. 

When we accepted Christ, we became a new creation.  The Holy Spirit came to reside in us.  It means that He instilled in us His character and His heart and is at work in us daily to conform us into His image.  Who are you imitating?  

I reflected on what I have chosen to fill my inner self with.?  Am I imitating the One who saved me?  My old nature desires to take me into areas that seem right with man but violate God’s law and standard; while my new nature desires to be closer and closer to the LORD.  

When I  allow my inner self to be fill thoughts with things that violate God’s teaching, I am imitating the world, not God.  I find when I allow my thoughts to wonder into my old nature, I pray less frequently, less intensely, less intentionally, more formally and less conversational.  I find myself reading and studying God’s Word less because I know His Word will confronted by my arrogant rebellious sinful attitude.

When I allow my thoughts to wonder into the old nature, I find myself not at peace.  I find joy missing in my life.  I find I am anxious.  I find fear creeping into my life and eventually consuming me.  I find myself feeling alone.  I find guilt taking hold of me.  I find that I am easily frustrated.  I find that I am susceptible to being consumed with anger toward others.  The Christian life is not just words but it is a life of action lead by the Holy Spirit.  

The Christian life lead by the LORD is a consistent life in all aspects of living, inwardly and outwardly.  We often say that a hypocrite is one whose words and actions are not consistent.  I would go even further by adding thoughts.  We can harbor things in our heart that are not reflected in our outward actions or speech.  Our thoughts color our view of others and of God’s Plan for ministry through us.  I have found when my thoughts are controlled by my old nature that my worship  become obligatory rather than awe of God and love.  

As I mediated and studied the scripture, God placed several questions on my heart.   Do my thoughts reflect my trust in God?  Do my thoughts reflect my new nature that God placed in me when I was saved.  Do my thoughts reflect the leadership of the Holy Spirit and allowing Him to direct my paths?  Do my thoughts bring honor and glory to God?  Far too often I ignore the Holy Spirit and dwell on the things that are of my old nature rather than dwelling on the things of my new nature in Christ Jesus.  

Scripture tells us that our minds are deceitful.  The Holy Spirit shows us truth.  He shows us what is noble and pure.  He reveals to us what is right, lovely and honorable.  

The Holy Spirit revealed to Paul writing the Church at Philippi that a believer are to dwell on and in the LORD.  When I allow Jesus to control all of me He becomes the One I am imitating.  My thoughts turn to the things of praise; things that are true, things that are noble,  things that are pure, things that are lovely and, things that are honorable.  God tells us to put these things into action in our lives.   It is God's desire for us to be holy just as He is holy.    I want to be an imitator of God through Christ Jesus my LORD.  

Today's hymn is Holy, Holy, Holy

Holy, holy, holy!
Lord God Almighty
early in the morning
our song shall rise to Thee
Holy, holy, holy!
Merciful and mighty
God in three persons
Blessed Trinity!

Holy, holy, holy
Though the darkness hide thee
Though the eye of sinful man
Thy glory may not see
Only Thou art holy,
There is none beside Thee
perfect in power, in love and purity.

Holy, holy, holy
Lord God Almighty
Oh thy works shall praise Thy name
In earth and sky and sea
Holy, holy, holy
Merciful and mighty
God in three persons
Blessed Trinity
oh God in three persons
Blessed Trinity!

Abraham Walks in Faith 

Hebrews 11:8 Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)

⁸ By faith Abraham, when he was called, obeyed and went out to a place he was going to receive as an inheritance. He went out, not knowing where he was going. 

We are introduced to Abram in the book of Genesis 11.  His father along with his nephew, Lot , left Ur and were headed for Canaan.  They stopped in Haran.  Abram's father dies there.  

Scripture records God's instruction to Abram in Genesis 12.1 "The Lord said to Abram:  Go out from your land, your relatives, and your father’s house to the land that I will show you."

God calls Abram out of his comfort zone.  He tells him to leave everything behind and go to a place that is unknown to Abram.  Although they were head to Canaan when they stopped in Haran, God did not tell Abram where he was taking him.  His instruction was to get up and go and I will show you the land.  In verse 4, we read that "Abram departed, as the LORD had spoken unto him; and Abram was seventy-five years old when he departed."  

Abram trusted the LORD and followed him.  Abram believed the promises that God made.  We know from reading Genesis 11.30 that Sarai was unable to have children.  But, God promised a great nation would come out of Abram.  He believed that God would show him the land of promise.   

I have a friend whose daughter called and told her parents that God was calling her to do mission work.  She said that she was selling all that she had and moving to the Dominican Republic.  Additionally, she told her parents that she would be responsible for raising the money needed to support herself while on the mission field.  She left her job.  She sold her home and furnishings.  She sold all that she had to follow the call of the LORD.  The LORD has sustained her for a number of years because of her obedience. 

In Mark 1.16-19,  we read about Jesus calling Peter, Andrew, James and John.  Scripture records that they left everything and followed Jesus.  In verse 18, it states that they "forsook their nets and followed Him."  In verse 20, it states that James and John "left their father, Zebedee, in the ship with the hired servants, and went after Him."

Like Abram and my friend's daughter, Peter, Andrew, James and John did not know what the LORD"S plan was for them.  They only knew that the LORD called.  They responded and obeyed the voice of the LORD and followed Him.  

The Psalmist wrote Psalm 25:4-5 New International Version (NIV)

⁴ Show me your ways, Lord,
    teach me your paths.
⁵ Guide me in your truth and teach me,
    for you are God my Savior,
    and my hope is in you all day long.

Abram placed his trust in the LORD and walked in faith. Abram trusted the LORD to show him the path and to reveal and teach him the truth.  He placed his hope in the LORD.  

God changed Abram's name to Abraham.  When Abram left Haran and headed to a place the LORD would show him, his name meant exalted father.  In chapter 17, God affirms his promise that He will make a great nation out of the union of Abraham and Sarah.  He changes Abram's name to Abraham which reflects God's promise.  The name Abraham means the father of a crowd or multitude.  He changes the name of Sarai which meant my princess to Sarah which means mother of nations.  

A few days ago, I wrote about the name change that occurred in each of us who accepted Christ as our LORD and Savior.  He made us new.  Our name went from being omitted from the Book of Life to being recorded in the Book of Life. What a Savior who keeps all of His Promises.  

For those who do not know the LORD, Jesus is calling you to accept His gift of eternal life.  His invitation is open to you right now.  For those of you who have accepted His gift of eternal life, God has a plan for you and a path for you to walk with Him on.  What path is the LORD calling you to follow?  Are you willing to follow Him wherever He leads?  Is God calling you out of your comfort zone and asking you to trust Him in all aspects of your life?  We can depend upon God because He is faithful and keeps all of His promises.  

When I was growing up, one of the favorite invitation hymns was Wherever He Leads I'll Go.

1)    "Take up thy cross and follow Me,"

I heard my Master say;

"I gave My life to ransom thee,

Surrender your all today."

Wherever He leads I'll go,

Wherever He leads I'll go,

I'll follow my Christ who loves me so,

Wherever He leads I'll go.

(2)    He drew me closer to His side,

I sought His will to know;

And in that will I now abide,

Wherever He leads I'll go.

Wherever He leads I'll go,

Wherever He leads I'll go,

I'll follow my Christ who loves me so,

Wherever He leads I'll go.

(3)    It may be through the shadows dim

Or o'er the stormy sea:

I take my cross and follow Him,

Wherever He leadeth me.

Wherever He leads I'll go,

Wherever He leads I'll go,

I'll follow my Christ who loves me so,

Wherever He leads I'll go.

(4)    My heart, my life, my all I bring

To Christ who loves me so;

He is my Master, Lord, and King,

Wherever He leads I'll go.

Wherever He leads I'll go,

Wherever He leads I'll go,

I'll follow my Christ who loves me so,

Wherever He leads I'll go.

Have a great day loving and serving God and others.

Psalm 103:1-2 New King James Version (NKJV)

Praise for the Lord’s Mercies

A Psalm of David.

103 Bless the Lord, O my soul;
And all that is within me, bless His holy name!
² Bless the Lord, O my soul,
And forget not all His benefits:

When I was a senior in high school, I had an assignment to read aloud in class a dramatic piece that was filled with emotion.  We could read aloud poetry or from a play or from literature.  We were to place ourselves in the place of the writer when he wrote the piece and read it with the same feeling as the writer was experiencing when he wrote the piece.  I chose Psalm 103.  

As you read the Psalm, you see David's relationship with God is intimate and personal.  David begins listing the benefits of the personal and intimate relationship that he and those who follow the LORD have.  First, David states that God forgives us of our sin when we trust in Him.  Second, David remembers the number of times that he has recovered from illness.  This is a reminder that God is the Great Physician.  Our medical doctors and nurses are His instruments.  This recognizes that God is the source of all healing.  

 God provides redemption for all those who chose to follow   Before accepting Christ, we were on the path of destruction.  We were running head long down the path that led to eternal separation from God.  As we traveled on the road to destruction, God called out to you and me.  He called our name and invited us to travel on a different path, a path leading to eternal life.  

We see God's character on display.  He is in love with us.  He shows us loving kindness and tender mercies.  He makes His way known to us.  He is our sustainer in times of trials.   He is our comforter.  We see that He is slow to anger.  

David reminds us that God does not punish us according to our sin.  We deserve judgment and the penalty that goes with being found guilty for our rebellion.  But, for those who heed the call of the LORD to repent and to walk with Him, he removes judgment and restores us as heirs in His household.  

Psalm 103:12 is one of my favorite.  He states that "as far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us.  How far is the east from the west?  If I boarded a flight in Daytona Beach and flew to Spain, I would be traveling east.  When I arrived in Spain, I took a flight to India, I would be traveling east.  When I arrive in India, I then took a flight to Los Angels, I would still be traveling east.  The final leg of the flight from Los Angels to Orlando would be east.  Never once did I travel to the west.  When God forgives He totally and completely forgives.  

Our sin is totally and completely forgiven; not only forgiven but forgotten by God.  He has removed them totally.  Praise to God who forgives and removes our transgressions.

Take time to remember all of His benefits.  Take time to praise Him and give thanks to Him for His love and mercy.  Give praise to the One who has not only forgiven but removed our sins totally and completely.  Praise Him, O my soul!

Have a great day serving and loving God and others.

Psalm 37:5 Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)

⁵ Commit your way to the Lord;
trust in Him, and He will act,

This is my life verse.  It is a constant reminder to me to keep my focus on Jesus.  

Let's examine the words in the verse.  The word commit means that we are totally in.  It is a deliberate action taken by us under the guidance and direction of God.  The word your indicates this is personal.  Our relationship with God is personal.  He deals with each of us as individuals.  In John 10:10, Jesus said "I have come so that they may have life and have it in abundance". 

The word way is the path we are walking with the LORD on each day.  In the Psalm 23, we read "He leads me in the paths of righteous for His Namesake."  A few years ago, a group from First Baptist went to Israel.  One afternoon our bus came to a complete stop as a shepherd was leading his sheep along a path adjacent to the highway.  The sign on the side of the road said sheep crossing.  We could see that the shepherd was leading his sheep along a specific path that required him to cross the highway.  The shepherd made sure that the traffic stopped before he led his flock across the highway.  He made sure that all the sheep were safe.  We can depend upon Him to lead us on the right path and bring us safely home.  

LORD means our God is our Sovereign.  He is our Creator.  He is our Savior.  We are to serve no other but Him.  Trust means that we are totally and completely reliant on God.   The word act means that God will act in our best interest in accordance to His Will.   Throughout the Bible, you see God acting on behalf of His people.  He is our shelter.  He is our fortress.  He is our Savior.  

It is my prayer that you will commit your self to the LORD; trust Him in all aspects of your life; and be totally and completely reliant upon Him to act on your behalf.  

Have a great day serving and loving God and others.

Psalm 100 King James Version (KJV)

100 Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all ye lands.

² Serve the Lord with gladness: come before his presence with singing.

³ Know ye that the Lord he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.

⁴ Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name.

⁵ For the Lord is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations.

Do you recall when you first learned Psalm 100?  It was one of the earliest scripture that I memorized.  I memorized it at age 5 during Vacation Bible School.  

David is excited about worship and serving.  There is no doubt about the joy that permeates his heart.  In verse 1, you see him instructing people to shout happily to the LORD.  When we step into the very presence of the LORD, our soul leaps with joy.  Do you remember in Matthew when Mary comes to visit Elizabeth?  Scripture states that John leaped inside Elizabeth because they were in the very presence of the Holy God Incarnated.  

The other day, I overheard a conversation about coming across the bridge and seeing the buildings and the cross.  The person who was speaking said they hoped they never lost the excitement they feel as they approach the church each week.  That is exactly what David is saying.  He says I am excited about what the LORD has done, is doing and will do.  May I never stop rejoicing and making a joyful noise unto the LORD.  Let the entire earth hear my happiness.  Does the world know that you are happy about what the LORD is doing?  

Recently, I was walking.  Unconsciously, I began singing.  Soon I became aware that I was singing praises unto the LORD.  No, I was not singing at the top of my lungs.  I was singing softly but loud enough for people when they passed me they would hear my singing.  My soul was happy and was singing praises unto the LORD.  

In verse 2, we are instructed to serve the LORD cheerfully.  What a privilege it is to serve the LORD with a glad heart.  We are called by His name.  We are His children.  Because of His love for us and our love for Him, we can serve Him with gladness and with joy.  We serve Him out of love, not out of obligation. Isn't it great that we are called to serve the Living God?  Isn't wonderful that He uses us to achieve His purpose?  We get to come into the very throne room and approach Him with our petitions without worry that we will be rejected.  We know that He hears our voice.   

We are God’s creation.  There is only one God.  We, who are His, are under His care.  We are pictured as being sheep in His pasture under the Chief Shepherd’s care.  The Shepherd will do everything to protect and provide for His sheep.  He knows each sheep by name.  He knows the uniqueness of each of His sheep.  

In verse 4, we are entering His gates singing praises to the King of Kings and LORD of LORDS.  We have been invited into the presence of the LORD.  We are not in the outer courts but inside in His court.  The picture is that we are in His presence engaged in worship.  We can never thank Him enough for what He has done for us.   There is a lot of singing in Heaven. 

You and I have privilege to sing praises to Him now.  Where I stand on Sunday morning, I see a lot of people just standing and not participating in the singing praises.  The singing is not a preclude to the worship service.  Just as giving is not a prelude to the worship service.  Both are an integral part of the worship service.  You might say I don’t have a good singing voice.  My response is that God gave you that voice to be used to praise Him.   One of the ways the Bible says that we praise God is in song.  God loves hearing His children sing His praises and not just stand in silence.

God’s mercy endures and His faithfulness is forever.  We can see both of these in our own history.  If God was merciful and faithful in the past, we can count on Him to be merciful and faithful now and forever.  He is always merciful and always faithful.

As I was writing this devotion, I sang a hymn of praise unto the LORD.  I would like to share with you that hymn.

 O Worship the King.  

1. O worship the King, 
all glorious above, 
And gratefully sing 
His power and His love; 
Our Shield and Defender, 
the Ancient of Days, 
Pavilioned in splendor, 
and girded with praise.

2. O tell of His might, 
O sing of His grace, 
Whose robe is the light, 
Whose canopy space, 
Whose chariots of wrath 
the deep thunderclouds form, 
And dark is His path 
on the wings of the storm.

3. Thy bountiful care, 
what tongue can recite? 
It breathes in the air, 
it shines in the light; 
It streams from the hills, 
it descends to the plain, 
And sweetly distills 
in the dew and the rain.

4. Frail children of dust, 
and feeble as frail, 
In Thee do we trust, 
nor find Thee to fail; 
Thy mercies how tender, 
how firm to the end, 
Our Maker, Defender, 
Redeemer, and Friend.

Have a great day loving and serving our LORD and Savior and others.

You are Commissioned in the LORD'S Army

It was a beautiful spring day.  There were two ceremonies that I was required to attend that day.  The first was the Army commissioning ceremony and the second was college graduation.  There were 45 men in my class who had completed all the ROTC requirements to be commissioned as Officers in the United States Army.  We stood in front of the auditorium that morning and raised our right hand and voluntarily took an oath.  My wife pinned my Officer's bars on my uniform.  The Professor of Military Science welcomed us as Commissioned Officers into the United States Army.

I remember going into the classroom at the Infantry Officer's Basic Course.  The instructor stated in our first class the following "in a few weeks the Army will entrust to you the lives and aspirations of 44 men because you are their leader."  He went on to further explain what that meant and why it was important.  You and I have been entrusted with the life changing message of salvation that changes people's aspirations and their lives.   

The verse for today is Matthew 28:19-20.  

Matthew 28:19-20 Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)

¹⁹ Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,²⁰ teaching them to observe everything I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

Jesus is leaving them to return to heaven.  He is commissioning them to make disciples.  He tells them in Mark 16:15 "go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature."  In Acts 1:8, Christ said "but, you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth."  Jesus entrusted to His disciples with the responsibility of spreading the gospel to the ends of the earth.  He entrusted them to deliver the message of salvation.  

He entrusted them to teach each generation.  What should they teach?  Teach what you have observed and what I have commanded you.  Many in the group that He was addressing had spent 3.5 years with Him.  They had seen the blind receive sight.  They had experienced the calming of the waters.  They had seen fish and loaves feed 5,000 and 4,000.  They had seen lepers healed.  They had seen people's lives restored.  They had placed their hand in the hand of the LORD and felt the nail scars.  They had placed their hand in the side of the risen LORD and felt the pierced side.  Jesus was now commissioning them to continue the work.  

Christ told His disciples "as you are going make disciples".  Making disciples is something that we do.  I like this way of saying it.  Since you are going, make disciples along the way.  Share the good news with those who you come in contact with as you go.  

Where has God placed you so that you are His witness?  I don't think it is happenstance that you and I are where we are.  God has a purpose for us being where we are.  I use this example in my Bible Study class.  In the United States about 65% of Americans identify themselves as Christians.  That does not mean they are.  It simply means that they identify themselves that way.  For purpose of this illustration, let's assume that figure to be correct.  That means in the United States that over 110 million people are lost and are hell bound.  Let's draw it closer to home.  There are about 21 million people who call Florida home.  That means that at least 7 million need Jesus.  Let' come even closer to home.  We are approaching 600,000 people who call Volusia County home.  That means more than 200,000 people are without Christ.  Let's bring it into your city.  That means that there are more than 20,000 people in the city that need Christ.  Lets bring it down to the block on which I live.  That means that there are approximately 17 on the block that I live in that are lost.  Did Christ place you on your block to witness to the people who live there?  Christ commissioned you and me to be disciples in our neighborhood.  

I used this example a few weeks ago.  We talk about reaching the world for Christ.  It begins with one.  There are approximately 1.4 billion people who state that they are Christian.  If that 1.4 billion would witness to just one and that one accepted Christ as their personal LORD and Savior then the number would increase to 2.8 billion.  If the 1.4 billion that were discipled and they witnessed to another person, then the number of Christians would expand to 4.2 billion.  If that 1.4 billion would witness to just one person, then the number would expand to 5.6 billion.  It that group would witness to just one person, the number would reach 7.0 billion.  It has been said that each of us are within 7 people of touching every single person on the planet.  This little exercise shows how just one could touch the entire world.  Our Pastor has asked each of us the question "who is your one?"  

The song today is children's song entitled I'm in the LORD'S Army

I may never march in the infantry
Ride in the cavalry
Shoot the artillery
I may never shoot for the enemy
But I'm in the Lord's army!
I'm in the Lord's army!
I'm in the Lord's army!
I may never march in the infantry
Ride in the cavalry
Shoot the artillery
I may never shoot for the enemy
But I'm in the Lord's army!

As you are going about your daily activities and making contact each day with people, show them the love of Jesus.  You are commissioned by Christ to be His witness.  To our LORD and to us every soul matters.

Have a great day serving and loving our LORD and Savior and others.

Galatians 2:20 Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)

²⁰ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.  

What do you think about when you hear the words the Holy Spirit indwells us?  Too often we say the words but do not have a clear understanding of what it means to have the indwelling of the Holy Spirit within us.  In Matthew 14:22-33. we read about  Jesus sending the disciples to the other side of the Sea of Galilee.  He went up to the mountain to be alone with the Father.  Scripture states that the boat was tossed about by the waves and the wind was contrary.  

As Jesus approached, the disciples were overcome by fear.  In one of the translations that I read, it states that the disciples were screaming because they thought He was a ghost.  When Jesus spoke to them, the fear that existed in them was changed to confidence and calmness because of His presence.  His indwelling is the source of peace just like it is the source of joy.  

Before I was saved, my life was filled with fear.  Fear extinguished joy and peace.  Although I was a very young boy when I accepted Christ as my personal LORD and Savior, I knew that the life I was living was not the one I wanted to live.  I realized that I was captured in a life where fear would be constantly with me.  

Fear creates uncertainty.  Fear paralyzes.  Satan uses fear to destroy peace.  In the Bible, God tells us to fear not in some form 365 times.  Think about it, that is one fear not for each day of the year.  Therefore, it must be something that our LORD wants us to do if He provides it in the Bible that many times.  

Because of the life that He gave us, I no longer have to fear because I know He is with me and will not forsake me.  Jesus does not promise to remove us out from the midst of life's storms.  Because He is in us and we are in Him, we are anchored firmly in the bedrock person of Jesus, the unchanging, all powerful Savior.  As the storms of life hit us, as they will, we can rest assured that our LORD and Savior is present with us saying fear not because you belong to Me. Jesus is the calming force in the midst of the storm.  David wrote in the 23rd Psalm “yea though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, You are with me.”  The Psalmist understood that God was with him wherever he walked and therefore he could walk with confidence.  That is a peace that the world does not recognize.  

The last portion of Galatians 2:20 is a word of assurance.  He loved us so much that He took on the punishment for our sin.  Because of Him, I am set free from condemnation.  As the Spiritual says “Free at last, Free at last, Thank God Almighty, I’m free at last.” Knowing that I am free from condemnation makes all the difference in the world and allows me to have peace.  

Wherever we go, the Spirit goes with us.  He is there constantly guiding us along the path of righteousness.  He is there constantly convicting us and leading us to repent of our sins.  He is there comforting and assuring us in the midst of life's storms.  He is there providing us with confidence to endure and carry on.  He is there providing us with power that goes beyond our own understanding.  He is our power source.  We are totally and completely dependent upon Him.  Jesus makes all the difference in the world.  He changes our outlook as well as our direction.  He is my Savior and King.  He reigns forever and ever.  His rule has no end.  That is why I have confidence in Him.  What a powerful God we serve.  He changes our life from what it was to what it is in Him.  

Today’s song is Because He Lives

God sent His son, they called Him, Jesus;
He came to love, heal and forgive;
He lived and died to buy my pardon,
An empty grave is there to prove my Savior lives!

Chorus
Because He lives, I can face tomorrow,
Because He lives, all fear is gone;
Because I know He holds the future,
And life is worth the living,
Just because He lives!

How sweet to hold a newborn baby,
And feel the pride and joy he gives;
But greater still the calm assurance:
This child can face uncertain days because He Lives!

Chorus
Because He lives, I can face tomorrow,
Because He lives, all fear is gone;
Because I know He holds the future,
And life is worth the living,
Just because He lives!

And then one day, I'll cross the river,
I'll fight life's final war with pain;
And then, as death gives way to victory,
I'll see the lights of glory and I'll know He lives!

Chorus
Because He lives, I can face tomorrow,
Because He lives, all fear is gone;
Because I know He holds the future,
And life is worth the living,
Just because He lives!

Have a great day serving on loving our LORD and Savior and others.

Galatians 4:6 English Standard Version (ESV)

⁶ And because you are sons, God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, crying, “Abba! Father!”

There are several things in this small verse of scripture that standout.  First, when you and I were saved, a status change occurred in our lives.  We changed from being the enemies of God to being His son.  He gave us a new name.  We became a new creation.  Our name went from being omitted in the Lambs Book of Life to be printed in boldface type in the Book of Life.  We were adopted into the Father’s family, not just adopted but with full family rights.  We became sons and daughters of the Most High.  What a privilege to be in the Father’s family.  

Prior to our salvation, our name was not in the Book of Life.  Prior to our salvation, we were relying on self.  Bible states that there are books that will be opened on judgment day.  Those books show people's actions, words, thoughts, deeds, motivations.  In Revelation 20:12, John wrote

¹² I also saw the dead, the great and the small, standing before the throne, and books were opened. Another book was opened, which is the book of life, and the dead were judged according to their works by what was written in the books.

God verifies before judgment that the individual standing before Him is not in the Book of Life.  Why verification?  This to show that justice is fair and is based upon man's own action.  This is  judgment is for those who have rejected Christ and God's gift of salvation.  Those of us found in the Book of Life will not be judged in the same manner as those who are without Christ.  Those who rejected God's gift of salvation will not be judged by grace or mercy.  They have rejected both.  They will be judged by God's perfect standard.  Their works are meaningless in comparison.  

In 2 Corinthians 5:20, we are called as Ambassadors for Christ.  God has appointed His family members to be His personal representatives here on earth.  An Ambassador represents his home country in another country.  The Ambassador is the official spokesperson for the United States in those countries.  He delivers messages to the heads of state in those countries from the United States.  Think about it, God has entrusted His Word to each of us to be delivered to the world in which we live.  Our permanent address is heaven.  The earth is our temporary home.  We are just on assignment here.  One day, we will all be called home.  Until that day, we are called to present God’s message here on earth.  

I like to say that you and I are in the family business.  I believe that God has a purpose for each of us in Volusia County.  I believe that God has placed those who are called by His Name here for such a time as this.  What is He calling you to do here?  Don’t forget that His children are His representatives.  Jesus said that He must be about His Father’s business.  That same applies to you and I.  

The second thing I see in this verse is that God has sent His Spirit into our heart.  When you and I were saved, the Holy Spirit began a work in each of us.  That work will not be completed until we are standing in the very presence of Jesus.  Paul wrote the following words to the Church at Philippi ⁶ being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. (Philippians 1:6)

 He that dwells in each of us is more powerful than he who dwells in this world.  So often, we allow the one who dwells in this world to intimidate us rather than allowing the Holy Spirit to remove the fear and intimidation from us.  He said that He is greater than the he that is in the world.  But, do we trust He that is greater to overcome the powers of this world?  The Holy Spirit transforms us from what we were to what we are and what we will become.  LORD, may I be obedient to Your Spirit who has begun a good work in me.  

The final thing I see in this verse is Abba, Father.  Those of you who have done a word study will recall that Abba is the most personal name used by a child to address their father.  Growing up in the south, the most personal name for my father was Daddy.  When I called out that personal name to my father, it expressed my respect and love for him.   When I called out his name, I knew he would respond.  I knew that he would listen.  I knew he would respond to my request if at all possible.  If I called on the phone and need him, he would come.  

As I read this scripture, I thought about the access you and I have to the Creator of the Universe, the Sovereign God, our Heavenly Father.  When we were saved, Jesus brought me into the throne room and introduced us to the Father.  I was to address the Sovereign God in the most imitate way, Abba, Father.  Only God’s children can address Him using this personal name.  Only God’s children have access to the very throne room.  Our Heavenly Father is never too busy for His children.  

Our Heavenly Father loves to hear our voices.  He loves to have conversation with us.  Conversation is a dialogue, not a monologue.  So often, we do all the talking and fail to hear the still small voice of the Almighty God speak.  There is something about being still and quiet that allows us to know and hear our LORD better.  Our Heavenly Father is always present.  Our Father loves us beyond measure.     Our LORD promises to meet our needs.  The Father answers our prayers.  He provides guidance and direction to His children.  He loves us so much that He disciplines us.  Our God  loves us so much that He sent Jesus to die on the cross so that we could have eternal everlasting life.  Scripture says that He demonstrated His love  for us  that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.    

Today's hymn is the second verse of the hymn In the Garden.

Verse 2
He speaks and the sound of His voice
Is so sweet the birds hush their singing; 
And the melody that He gave to me
Within my heart is ringing.

And he walks with me
And He talks with me, 
And He tells me I am his own; 
And the joy we share as we tarry there, 
None other has ever known. 

It is my prayer that each of you spend time with Him and listen to Him speak and direct your way.  

Have a great day loving and serving our LORD and Savior and others.  

James 1:17 New International Version (NIV)

¹⁷ Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.

I was reminded about the provision of the Father.  I was reminded about His blessings, His grace, and His mercy.  I was reminded about His daily provision.   I was reminded that that He created everything and when He saw His creation it was good.  I thought about the faithfulness of our LORD.  I thought about His unchanging nature.  Because He never changes, He provides assurance and stability that we desire.  I thought about that our Father is never asleep nor does He abandon His children.  He is always present.  

I thought about the complete illumination that God provides which lights our path.  God lights our path with complete and true light.  In Psalm 119.105, the Psalmist writes "Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path."

I thought about the shadows that are created by the sun and other forms of light.  They cast darken spots on the ground.  Psalm 91.1 says "He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the All Mighty.  

Then I thought about the perfect light of our Heavenly Father.  Scripture states "Jesus is Light.  What I have observed is that God’s light allows us to see clearly while walking in His shadow.   His shadow illuminates us while the shadows of this world darken.  It is when we walk off His path that His shadow is replaced with the darken shadows of this world.  

Do you remember when Adam and Eve sinned, they hid from God?  They went from being in His perfect light to fleeing from Him and hiding in the shadows.  Isn’t that what we do?  When we sin, we move from walking in His light and shadow to walking in the shadow caused by sin. 

We attempt to hid from Him because we like David realize that we have sinned against Him.  We attempt to cover up sin through various ways. For the believer, God does not allow us to escape.  Like David, God confronts us.  His light is present and calls us back to Him.  He never forgets His own nor does He allow His own to live in comfort in our sin.  The Holy Spirit continually calls us back to the Father and reminds us that we are called to walk in the light of the Most High and not hid in sin’s shadows.  

Let me encourage you to walk in light of the Father and not in the darken shadows of the world.  

When I was a youth, I learned a song Heavenly Sunlight.  Today's hymn is Heavenly Sunlight.

Walking in sunlight all of my journey,

Over the mountains, through the deep vale;

Jesus has said, I’ll never forsake thee—

Promise divine that never can fail.

Refrain:

Heavenly sunlight! Heavenly sunlight!

Flooding my soul with glory divine;

Hallelujah! I am rejoicing,

Singing His praises, Jesus is mine!

Shadows around me, shadows above me

Never conceal my Savior and Guide;

He is the light, in Him is no darkness,

Ever I’m walking close to His side.

In the bright sunlight, ever rejoicing,

Pressing my way to mansions above;

Singing His praises, gladly I’m walking,

Walking in sunlight, sunlight of love.

Have a great days serving and loving our LORD and Savior and others.

Recently, I wrote about changes that I made to my diet to make it healthier.  This past Sunday, our Bible Study group went to lunch at Outback.  They had a promotion meal being offered that included soup, salad, entree with vegetable or potato, and cheese cake for dessert.  Also, they had unlimited bread and butter.  I love their baked potato soup with bread covered with butter.  No steak meal is complete without a loaded baked potato, butter, sour cream and cheese.  Dessert was cheese cake with the choice of toppings.  I refrained from ordering the special and ordered salad ( no croutons) with grill chicken with the salad dressing on the side.  From my previous experience with diets, I know if I said to myself just this one time then it becomes easier to justify the next time and the next time until finally I have returned to my old habits.  

Today, we will examine the battle for our minds.  Just like I wrote about the changes that I made in my food diet, what are the changes that I need to make to my mind's diet that I am ingesting daily?  The brain needs more than nourishment  gained from eating healthy foods.  The mind needs spiritual nourishment as well.  

What are we examining how to grow our minds spiritually?  In Philippians 2, scripture tells us that we are to have a mind like Christ.

Philippians 2:5-7 New King James Version (NKJV)

⁵ Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, ⁶ who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, ⁷ but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. 

In Proverbs 4:20-24, we read

Proverbs 4:20-24 Contemporary English Version (CEV)

²⁰ My child, listen carefully
    to everything I say.
²¹     Don’t forget a single word,
    but think about it all.
²² Knowing these teachings
    will mean true life
    and good health for you.
²³ Carefully guard your thoughts
    because they are the source
    of true life.
²⁴ Never tell lies or be deceitful
    in what you say.

In verse 23, God reminds us to careful to guard your thoughts.  Be careful to what you are storing in your brain.   

Every day, Satan throws stuff at you and me.  He piles it on.  Satan knows that sin originates in our senses.  He knows that it starts and matures with a thought.  One of his greatest weapons is to make us dull our minds to sin.  Satan presents sin in its glamour, never in its destructive nature.  Initially the images of sin may shock us.  But Satan continues to show us the beautiful images and changes them to be more and more acceptable.  That is why it is extremely important to guard our thoughts and guard what we allow to come into our minds.  Sin is never acceptable to God.  

Ask God the following questions when thoughts enter your mind:

1.         Are these thoughts evil or righteous thoughts?

2.         Are these thoughts glorifying God?

3.         Are these thoughts completely true?  Lies are always a lie.  Half-truths are always a lie.  

How can I guard my mind?  

1.         Study and mediate on God's Word.

2.         Pray without ceasing.  When unrighteous thoughts begin to take root in our minds, pray for forgiveness and ask God to cleanse us and remove those thoughts.  When Satan brings them back up, as he will, allow God to place in our minds that He has forgiven us from all unrighteousness. 

3.         Live our lives with the mind of Christ.  That means that we are to focus on growing spiritually, not in the ways of the world.

4.         Ask God to be the guardians of our minds.  When I try to be the guardian of my mind, the enemy finds the weak point to enter and attack from within.  When I turn the guardianship to the LORD, He strengthens the defense and is always on guard. 

5.         Don't forget to put on the helmet each and every day.  Keep it securely fastened.  

The Apostle Paul writing to the Philippians wrote

Philippians 4:8 Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)

⁸ Finally brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable—if there is any moral excellence and if there is any praise—dwell on these things. 

Are you allowing God to guard your thoughts?  Begin today and it will change your outlook for the day.

Have a great day loving and serving our LORD and Savior and others. 

This past year, I have been watching the types of food that I am eating.  I tried to eat healthier, more lean meat and fish, fruits and vegetables and less fatty food.  That meant limiting and eliminating many of the items from my diet that I grew up loving to eating such as biscuits and gravy, chicken fried steak, fried catfish and hush puppies to name just a few.   It meant changing my lifestyle.  The result is that I am healthier, have more energy, and have lost weight.  

Peter was writing this letter to teach Christians to live victorious in the midst of a hostile environment.  We are constantly exposed to world system whose aim is to destroy the creditability of the Church and individual believers.  The world system desires for the Church to embrace its values.  When the Church doesn't, then the world system tries to discredit the Church and subject it to ridicule.    

Dr. Scott Pace was the teaching Pastor at First Daytona Beach for a number of years.  Dr. Pace would do a lesson review for teachers on Wednesday night.  He would tell us: "You can tell people what you believe; but, your actions show people what you believe."   It is important that our actions and words match.  

The Apostle reminded the Church that we are called to be different.  The Church is chosen to be different than what people see in the world system.  It is the chosen vehicle through which Christ is revealed to the world.  You and I are chosen to deliver the Gospel message, the message of hope and salvation.  There is no other hope but Jesus.  We are chosen to demonstrate Christ's love for  people.  We are chosen to live out our life daily walking with the LORD.  We are chosen to be different in our lifestyle.  We are chosen to represent Christ whenever and wherever we are.  Jesus said: "You are my witnesses in Judea, Samaria and to the uttermost parts of the earth."  

In Exodus 19:6, we read: "And you shall be to Me a kingdom of priest and a holy nation."  We are ordained by God into the priesthood.  We are under the Great High Priest, Jesus.  He is our leader.  He is our example.  We  have the privilege of serving the King of Kings and LORD of LORD"S.  

Israel was called to be a holy nation.  As believers we are part of a holy nation.  We have the privilege of being the unique people of God.  As his unique people, we have been given the privilege to represent Him and to tell others about His greatness.  

Peter reminds us that we were once in darkness and didn't know God.  We heard and responded to the call from God and were ushered into His light and are called by His Name.  He goes on to remind people that when they were lost they had not received mercy.  When we received Jesus we received mercy from the Father and became His.   

As I was writing this, a hymn kept coming to mind, All Hail the Power of Jesus Name.  Read the words and sing it as a Doxology to our LORD and Savior. 

1. All hail the power of Jesus' name! 
Let angels prostrate fall; 
Bring forth the royal diadem, 
And crown Him Lord of all. 
Bring forth the royal diadem, 
And crown Him Lord of all. 

2. Ye chosen seed of Israel's race, 
Ye ransomed from the fall, 
Hail Him Who saves you by His grace, 
And crown Him Lord of all. 
Hail Him Who saves you by His grace, 
And crown Him Lord of all. 

3. Let every kindred, every tribe
On this terrestrial ball
To Him all majesty ascribe, 
And crown Him Lord of all. 
To Him all majesty ascribe, 
And crown Him Lord of all. 

4. O that with yonder sacred throng
We at His feet may fall
We'll join the everlasting song, 
And crown Him Lord of all. 
We'll join the everlasting song, 
And crown Him Lord of all.

Have a great day loving and serving our LORD and Savior and others.

⁷ By faith Noah, after he was warned about what was not yet seen and motivated by godly fear, built an ark to deliver his family. By faith he condemned the world and became an heir of the righteousness that comes by faith.

What is faith?  So often, we read a word and assume that we know the definition.  Faith means "belief, firm persuasion, assurance, firm conviction, faithfulness." Faith is confidence in what we hope for and the assurance that the Lord is working, even though we cannot see it. Faith knows that no matter what the situation in our lives or someone else life, that God is at work.

Faith is an action verb.  Faith is the act whereby a person lays hold of God's resources, becomes obedient to what He has prescribed and puts aside all self interest and self-reliance and places their trusts in Jesus completely. It is an unqualified surrender of the whole of one's being and recognizes that we are totally and completely dependent upon Him. It is wholly trusting and relying upon Him for all things. It is more than just intellectually knowing about Jesus.  Faith is personally accepting Jesus as LORD and Savior.    

In Genesis 6:8-9, we read: "But, Noah found grace in the eyes of the LORD... Noah was a just man, perfect in his generations.  Noah walked with God."

Noah found grace in the eyes of the LORD.  Noah was not spared because of his good works.  Noah was spared because he believed in God and trusted Him for his salvation.  We see in these verses that Noah sought a personal relationship with God.  Scripture states that he walked with God.  This is an intentional, determined, consistent and constant walk with God.  Noah sought God.  Noah lived his life in accordance to God's direction.  This set him apart from the rest of society.  

There are two men in Genesis where the writer states that they walked with God.  The first was Enoch and the second is Noah.  This was his lifestyle.  He pursued God's righteous standards.  Was he perfect the answer is no. But, the desire of his heart was to walk with God and to be faithful in all aspects of his life.  He set his face toward God.  

In Genesis 6:14, we read the following words "Make yourself an ark."  God provided a way for Noah to escape judgment.  He provide salvation to Noah and all who would enter the Ark with Noah.  In verse 22, we read these words: "Noah did according to all that God commanded him, so he did."  

Throughout construction of the Ark, the door was open and salvation was available to all.  But, when it came time to enter the Ark, only eight people went in.  Only eight were saved from the judgment of the flood.  Noah, his wife, their three sons and their wives were the only ones who believed God and went inside.  

Noah was not an only child.  Scripture records that Lamech, Noah's father, had other sons and daughters.  Lamech was not an only child.  It is recorded that his father, Methuselah had other sons and daughters.  Just a side note, Noah's father died just four years before the flood.  Also, Noah's grandfather, Methuselah died in the same year as the flood.  

I thought about all the relatives that Noah witnessed to over the years.  None of them accepted God's invitation to salvation.  I imagine that his siblings and his extended family thought Noah was some kind of religious fanatic.  He was telling them that it was going to rain.  He was telling them that it was going to flood.  He was telling them that if they did not repent they would perish in the flood.  You have to remember that they had never experienced rain nor had they experienced a flood before.  They most likely passed it off as our crazy relative, Noah. Noah was faithful even in the face of ridicule and the rejection of his warning.     

Brother Bobby Welch used to say that we were to keep keeping on.  That is exactly what Noah did.  He kept working until the LORD told him to enter the Ark. 

Is it your heart desire to walk closer and closer each day with the LORD?  Are you laying hold of God's resources and putting aside all self interest and self reliance and trusting in Jesus completely?  Are you completely surrendered to the LORD in all aspects of your life?  Are you trusting in Him for all things?  Make 2020 the year that you become completely sold out to the LORD.  

Have a great day loving and serving the LORD and others.

¹⁰ When Daniel learned that the document had been signed, he went into his house. The windows in its upper room opened toward Jerusalem, and three times a day he got down on his knees, prayed, and gave thanks to his God, just as he had done before. 

Daniel is an excellent example of a man who trusted God and would not compromise his values or his commitment to the LORD.  Daniel is an excellent example of being consistent in his prayer life regardless of the situation or circumstance.  Daniel is an excellent example of a man who did not hide his total commitment to the LORD.  He lived out his faith daily.  

There are several things revealed in Daniel 6:10 concerning prayer.  First, Daniel had a time that he prayed each day.  Notice it says that Daniel prayed three times a day.  Second, Daniel had a place where he prayed.  Notice that it was in the upper room.  Third, Daniel had a prayer posture.  Scripture states that he knelt.  Finally, Daniel offered thanks to God.  Giving thanks is worship.  

In Daniel 5, we read about the fall of the Babylonian Empire to the Medes and Persians.  Darius is made King of the entire empire.  In the Chapter 6, we see Darius organizing the empire into regions.  He appoints three governors and 120 satraps.  The satraps were regional administrators who reported to one of the three governors.  

Daniel was appointed as one of the three governors.  In Daniel 6:3, we read these words: "then Daniel distinguished himself above the governors and satraps, because of his excellent spirit was in him; and the king gave thought to setting him over the whole realm."    The other two governors and the 120 satraps were jealous of Daniel.  I think there were several reasons that they were jealous beginning with the fact that Daniel had gained favor with the King above all the rest of them.  Second, Daniel was not a Mede or Persian.  He was a hold over from the Babylonian period.  The Medes and Persians had defeated the Babylonians.  They did not like having one who had served the Babylonians as a ruler, not just a ruler but the one who the king liked best.  Third, Daniel was Jewish.  You will see it later in chapter 6 when they state that he is one of the captives.  

The governors and satraps set out to bring Daniel down.  They examined his conduct.  They examined his morality.  They attempted to find fault in him.  Scripture states that they found "no charge or fault, because he was faithful; nor was any error or fault found in him."    They determined that the only way to bring Daniel down was concerning the law of his God.  

These men play on the King's pride.  They come to him with a plan.  They represented to the King that all of the governors and administrators are in agreement and ask Darius to establish a "royal statute and make it a firm decree that whosoever petitions any god or man for thirty days, except you, O King shall be cast into the den of lions."  This is a lie.  Notice who is not present when they make this statement, Daniel.  Darius should have noticed that Daniel was not present.  Darius before he signed the decree did not check to see if Daniel was in agreement.  The group was elevating Darius to god status.  They were placing him above all other gods for this thirty day period.  For a king to be told that he was god like swelled his ego.  Satan is good at disguising the real intent.  

In verse 10, we see that Daniel does not change his schedule.  He prays three times each day, morning, noon and evening.  Daniel understood the consequence of his violating the King's decree.  He was faithful to higher King who deserved all honor and glory.  He did not change his place of prayer.  He went to the upper room and opened the window as was his custom and prayed.  Third, he did not alter his posture.  He knelt before the LORD.  Finally, he did not alter his prayer.  He gave thanks unto the LORD. Daniel knew he would be discovered and knew that he faced death.  Yet, he remained faithful to God.  He trusted God with everything, position, prestige, and his life.  

Daniel could have avoided the sentence by simply modifying his routine.  He could have changed the time.  He could have changed the place.  He could have changed the position.  He could have kept the window closed.  But, Daniel did none of these things.  He wanted to be faithful to the LORD just as the LORD had been faithful to him.  

The men were waiting and watching.  They were aware of Daniel routine.  They charged Daniel with violating the law of the Medes and Persians.  Scripture states that Darius was displeased with himself.   He attempted to find a way to save Daniel.  But, there was no way to save him from the sentence.  I love the statement that Darius makes just prior to Daniel being placed in the lion's den.  "Your God, whom you serve continually, He will deliver you."  Darius recognized that Daniel served God.  He recognized that God could intervene and save Daniel.  God is the source of all salvation.  

I remember being 8 or 9 going into a Sunday School classroom.  There on the wall was a poster showing a young man in the midst of a group of lions.  The lions were laying on the ground not paying any attention to the man in their midst.  At the top of the picture was a man looking through a hole in the roof.  There was light shining down on the man in the midst of the lions.  Morning had arrived and Daniel was safe.  Daniel explains that the LORD had sent his angel to close the mouths of the lions. Daniel states that the LORD had found him innocent and not worthy of death.  

Pilate made that same determination of Jesus.  Nevertheless, Pilate agreed to put Jesus to death in order to satisfy the crowd.  

The picture of the young man in the midst of the lions has stuck in my mind for years.  The only thing wrong with the picture is that Daniel was not a young man when this event occurs.  In fact, Daniel was in his 80's.  Daniel had been praying and worshipping God throughout his life.  He did not allow circumstances to change him.  He followed the LORD's instruction and believed in God. 

Do you have a time on your calendar set aside to be with God?  Our calendars reveal what is truly important in our lives.  There are certain things we place on our calendars that are fixed and can not be changed.  Is your time with the LORD one of the fixed items that you schedule around?  Second, do you have a place where you go to pray, study, read, mediate on the Word of God and listen to the LORD to speak?  Do you enter that place expecting to encounter the Living God?  Do you have a posture of worship when you are alone with God?  Let me encourage you to schedule time to be alone with God.  Let me encourage you to set a place to be alone with God.  Let me encourage you to establish a posture of worship of God.  

Have a great day loving and serving our LORD and Savior and others.

10 Finally, be strengthened by the Lord and by His vast strength. 11 Put on the full armor of God so that you can stand against the tactics of the Devil. 12 For our battle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the world powers of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavens. 13 This is why you must take up the full armor of God, so that you may be able to resist in the evil day, and having prepared everything, to take your stand. 14 Stand, therefore,

with truth like a belt around your waist, righteousness like armor on your chest, 15 and your feet sandaled with readiness for the gospel of peace.16 In every situation take the shield of faith,
and with it you will be able to extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17 Take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is God’s word.

18 Pray at all times in the Spirit with every prayer and request, and stay alert in this with all perseverance and intercession for all the saints.

Today's Verse for the Day comes from Ephesians 6:10-18.  This is a very familiar passage.  Paul writes that we are engaged in a spiritual war. In fact, the word that he uses is that we are engaged in close hand to hand combat.  We can count on Satan using all forms of trickery and deception to gain an advantage.

He states that we are not engage against flesh and blood but against principalities, against powers against rulers of darkness of this age, against spiritual host of wickedness in heavenly places.  That is why in verse 10, Paul tells us to be strong in the LORD and in the power of His might.  Paul knows that only in Christ are we able to stand strong against the enemy.

The Apostle Paul is under house arrest in Rome.  A Roman soldier is chained to him.  As he is writing to the Church at Ephesus, he examines closely the uniform the soldier is wearing.  The soldier that is assigned to Paul most likely was from the elite troops assigned to guard Caesar.  These soldiers were always prepared to defend Caesar and the Empire.  They always had their equipment with them and in excellent condition.    Each piece is designed to give the soldier the maximum protection when facing the enemy.  Paul instructs us to put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.   God specifically designed this armor not only survive the battlefield but to be victorious on the battlefield.  

Paul probably watched as the soldier carefully and thoroughly maintained each piece of his equipment.  The soldier knew that his life depended upon the armor.  He examined it daily and made repairs so that it was always in tip top condition.  He made sure that it fit perfectly so that each piece protected the vital parts of the body.  

He examined the shield to be sure that it was treated so that when the flaming arrows were shot at the advancing troops the flames would be extinguished.  By the way, the shield was a full body shield that the soldier could get behind.  Also, when the Roman Legion was advancing, the front rank would place their shields in front of them and they would get behind the shield.  Each rank behind the front rank would place the shields over their heads creating a total shield from the flaming darts being fired by the enemy.  Trusting in God is absolutely necessary to protect us from the enemy.  I envision Christ as my shield and my defender.  It is He that is in front of me.  It is He that extinguishes the fiery darts.  

Paul watched as the soldier would check the breastplate.  The breastplate covered the vital body organs.  We are to put on the breastplate of righteousness.  Righteousness and holiness are characteristics of God.   When we fail to put on the breastplate each day, we become vulnerable to the enemy's attack.  

The utility belt was used to contain the tunic when the soldier was in close quarter combat with the enemy.  The belt is described as truth.  John Macarthur states the belt of truth ties up all the spiritual loose ends.  We are to guard against hypocrisy.  I thought about just one loose end provides the enemy with an opening to attack us and to damage our witness.  Jesus is truth.  We are to bear true faith and allegiance to Him.  In Revelation 19:11, we read about Jesus coming.  Scripture states that He who sat on he white horse was called Faithful and True.  

The shoes were special shoes.  These sandals had spikes in them.  The spikes allowed the soldier to stand firm.  The sandals provided a firm foundation for the soldier.  A Roman soldier went into battle made sure that the sandals were in good state of repair and would not slip when he was in battle.  The soldier would dig in knowing that he was anchored and prepared to do battle.  We are to be anchored in Christ.  When we are anchored in Christ, we are on firm footing. 

There is only one offensive weapon, the Sword of the Spirit.  When Satan tempted Christ, Jesus used the Word of God to repel Him.  Satan is powerless against the Word of God.  So often we attempt to fight Satan in our own strength.  Whereas, if we used the Sword of the Spirit, he would depart from us just as he did Jesus in the wilderness.  

Let me encourage you this year to daily put on the whole armor that God has issued you.   Some people begin their day by picturing putting on each piece of the armor and asking God to protect them.  

Have a great day serving and loving God and others.  

5 By faith Enoch was taken away so he did not experience death, and he was not to be found because God took him away. For prior to his removal he was approved, since he had pleased God. 6 Now without faith it is impossible to please God, for the one who draws near to Him must believe that He exists and rewards those who seek Him.

Several years ago, I saw a movie entitled the Jackie Robinson Story. As you know, Jackie Robinson broke the color barrier for Major League Baseball. In fact, he played his first game in Daytona Beach. Why Daytona Beach? Other Florida cities would not allow him to play against white players. Daytona Beach allowed him to play at the City Island Stadium, the same stadium that bears his name today.

In the movie there is a quote attributed to one of Jackie's high school coaches. He is quoted as saying to the young athlete "if we walk long enough and talk long enough then we will understand one another." Walking and talking were the key to getting to know one another. The walking and talking led to a better understanding. The walking and talking developed a higher level of trust. The walking and talking led to a intimate personal relationship, a close friendship and love for one another. It is God's desire for us to walk with Him and talk with Him each and every day. As we walk daily with the Lord, we will deepen our personal relationship with Him.  

Many years ago, I heard an illustration about Enoch. For 300 years, Enoch walked with the LORD each and every day. The LORD would stop at Enoch's home each day and they would walk together. Each day, Enoch's faith grew stronger and stronger as he walked, talked and fellowshipped with God. Each day, the trust bond was stronger. Each day the love Enoch had for the LORD deepened. Each day, Enoch and God would arrive a certain point and Enoch would turn around and walk back home.  

There came a day when Enoch and God were walking and talking and they went beyond the normal turn around point. God turns to Enoch and says why don't you come an live in my house?  
Genesis 5:24 states: "And Enoch walked with God; and he was not, for God took him." Enoch's actions were intentional. He had a personal intimate relationship with God. God desires for us to have the same type of relationship that He had with Enoch. Each day Enoch's faith deepen as he developed an ever increasing intimate relationship with God. He renewed his walk each and every day. Each day, his faith became stronger and stronger. He became more and more reliant on God and less and less reliant on self. He was focused totally on doing the will of God.  

The writer of Hebrews states that without faith it is impossible to please God. Without faith, it is impossible to walk with God. I was reading John MacArthur as I was preparing this devotional piece. MacArthur stated that "genuine faith does not simply believe that a divine being exists, but that God of Scripture is the only real and true God who exists. No believing that God exists is the equivalent of calling Him a liar."  

One of my favorite hymns is I Am Thine O LORD. Look at the words:

1. I am thine, O Lord, I have heard thy voice, 
and it told thy love to me; 
but I long to rise in the arms of faith
and be closer drawn to thee. 
Refrain: 
Draw me nearer, nearer, blessed Lord, 
to the cross where thou hast died. 
Draw me nearer, nearer, nearer, blessed Lord, 
to thy precious, bleeding side. 

2. Consecrate me now to thy service, Lord, 
by the power of grace divine; 
let my soul look up with a steadfast hope, 
and my will be lost in thine. 
(Refrain) 

3. O the pure delight of a single hour
that before thy throne I spend, 
when I kneel in prayer, and with thee, my God, 
I commune as friend with friend! 
(Refrain) 

4. There are depths of love that I cannot know
till I cross the narrow sea; 
there are heights of joy that I may not reach
till I rest in peace with thee. 
(Refrain)

It is my prayer that during 2020, you will be drawn nearer nearer to our precious LORD. 

Have a great day serving and loving God and others.

4 And Abel also presented an offering—some of the firstborn of his flock and their fat portions. The LORD had regard for Abel and his offering, 

The verse for today comes from Genesis 4:4. Adam and Eve had two sons, Cain and Abel. Cain was the first born. Scripture reveals that he was a farmer and tilled the ground. Abel was the second born. He was a shepherd.  

In Hebrews 11.4, we read: By faith, Abel offered to God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain through which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts and through it he being dead still speaks." Both Abel and Cain knew God's requirements. Abel obeyed.  

In Genesis 4:3, you see Cain bringing an offering to the LORD. Scripture states that "Cain brought an offering of the fruit of the ground to the LORD." Was the offering the best? Did God tell them that an animal offering was required and Cain just chose to give what he wanted to give? Was Cain simply bringing an offering out of obligation and as an act of worship? Was Cain resentful with having to bring an offering? We may not know the anwswer to these questions, but, what is evident is that Cain did not obey God. He chose to disobey God and did what he wanted to do rather than what God had instructed him to do.  

Abel gave of the firstborn. He gave of the best from the flock. He gave of the best that he had. You read in Hebrews about Abel's zealous heart for God. Abel was faithful. He was obedient. He followed hard after God's ways and obeyed God's instruction.  

When you read the scripture, you see one brings while the other presents. Abel sees the offering as an act of worship. Cain sees the offering as a requirement. Abel wants to give the very best of what he has unto the LORD.  

Although scripture does not provide detail about how each selected what would be brought and presented unto the LORD. I see Abel going through all his flocks seeking just the right animal to present to the LORD. He is painstaking in looking for an animal that is without blemish. As he finds the right sheep, he rejoices and praises God. I see Abel brining the animal to the place where he is presenting his offering unto the LORD giving thanks for being able to worship through giving.  

What you find in Genesis 4:6-7 is that God and Cain have a discussion about the offering. We see in the scripture an unrepentant heart. We see God confronting Cain for his disobedience. Aren't you and I glad that God confronts us when we are disobedient. He will not allow His children to be comfortable in sin.  

God warned Cain about sin being ready to devour him. Sin is described being at the door. If man chooses not to obey God, sin will devour and overpower. In 1 John 3:12 we read: "not as Cain who was of the wicked one and murdered his brother. And why did he murder him? Because his works were evil and his brother's righteous." I'm so glad that God provides man with warnings that sin is crouching at the door and is ready to pounce.  

Satan is described as a roaring lion who is seeking to destroy. You and I as believers are sentinels. We are there to warn men that the enemy is ready to attack. We are to be prepared for the enemy to attack us in our own lives. Let me encourage you to find somebody who will become your accountability partner during 2020. Accountability partners help each other to withstand the attacks that the enemy launches against us.  

My father would often tell me that he could always tell when he was outside the will of God and following his own will. He said that God removed the song of praise from his heart. He said he could no longer sing with joy. Yes, he could sing the words, but, they were just that words, not worship of the Living God. When he realized the song was no longer residing in his heart because he was following after his own desires, he turned to the LORD and asked to be restored. He stated that as soon as he prayed a prayer of repentance, the song returned to his heart and he was able to worship.  

As we prepare to enter a new year, a new decade, let's commit our hearts to worship the LORD and remain vigilant to guard against the sin that crouches at the door.  

Have a great day serving and loving God and others.

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