Vision for the New Year! - December 31st, 2011

Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he.

Proverbs 28:19

And the LORD answered me, and said, Write the vision, and make it plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it. For the vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie: though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry.

Habakkuk 2:2-3

History and Context:

Proverbs: King Solomon, son of King David, often considered the wisest man who ever lived, wrote the majority of the proverbs in order to share his wisdom. Many of his proverbs have become common sayings in today's society and people don't even realize that they are from the Bible. Proverbs are one line nuggets of wisdom, therefore there is not really any context to consider as this line stands by itself. At the beginning of the book of Proverbs Solomon addresses his 'son' which have led many to believe that he wrote this book for his biological son, but it could also simply be a term for any younger man that happens to read the sayings.

Habakkuk: Habbakuk was a contemporary of the prophet Jeremiah. The book was written either right before or right after the fall of the Assyrian empire and the rise of Babylon. Either way Babylon is rising at the time of Habakkuk but Judah hadn't yet been taken. However it was only a few years later that Babylon destroyed the city of Jerusalem. Habakkuk deals with the very difficult question of why do the wicked prosper while the righteous suffer.

The Text:

Proverbs 28:19 tells us the importance of having a vision, a plan or a direction in which we are going. Solomon tells us that without vision the people 'perish'. this word actually means that they 'run wild without moral restraint'. In other words, when there is no one who stands up with a vision there is chaos amongst the people. He then shows us in the second half of the proverb that our vision needs to line up with the law of God and to help protect and preserve God's laws.

Then in Habakkuk, the prophet shares with us the importance of not only having a vision, but of writing it down and making it clear for ourselves and for all who are striving with us after that vision. It doesn't do any good to have a vision if we haven't made it clear, but haven't it clearly written down gives people the ability to run with the vision when they read it.

The Challenge:

Tomorrow is the beginning of the new year and the common practice is to make New Year's resolutions. Of course it is rare that people actually follow through with these resolutions and they end up making the same ones over every year. Instead of making New Year's resolutions, let's pray and seek God for a vision for the new year. What does God want you to do in this new year? If you do it with God then you will be successful. Maybe God will give you several things or maybe He will give you one major vision, but I promise you that if you seek Him He will speak and He will share with you His vision for the new year!

The Prayer:

Lord, I want to follow your plan for 2012. I know that your plans are always bigger than I can imagine so I will trust you and follow you. What do you have for me in this year? What do you want me to do? Lead me and direct me! In Jesus' name, Amen!

Will you lead? - December 28th, 2011

⁶ When a man takes hold of his brother
In the house of his father, saying, 

“ You have clothing; 

You be our ruler,
And let these ruins be under your power,”
⁷ In that day he will protest, saying,
“ I cannot cure your ills,
For in my house is neither food nor clothing;
Do not make me a ruler of the people.” 

Isaiah 3:6-7

History and Context:

Isaiah is the prophet most quoted by Jesus and by the New Testament authors. There are many Messianic prophecies throughout Isaiah, but the real purpose of the book was to admonish the kings of Judah to rely on the protection of God. Isaiah's ministry focused on the reign of two different kings, Ahaz and Hezekiah. Ahaz did not listen to Isaiah and relied on the protection of Assyria rather than God's protection. Hezekiah also didn't listen at first but as things went bad he turned to God for protection and God rescued the kingdom of Judah. Isaiah continually refers to God as "The Holy One of Israel". This phrase is repeated 26 times in the book of Isaiah and only 6 times in the rest of the Old Testament. Isaiah is also known for having the most messianic prophecies out of any of the prophets.

The Text:

Isaiah is prophesying judgement over Israel in which all the leaders and officials will be taken out. Here he is saying that it will get to the point that if someone has clothing he will be considered a leader and asked to be the ruler of the people just because of what he has. What struck me was the response of the person asked to take leadership. Isaiah prophesies that they will say that they can not help and will tell them not to make them ruler. Out of fear they will not want to step up and take that position. 

The Challenge:

We are in a time where leaders are desperately needed. Who will step up to be a leader in this generation? Who will be willing to be a ruler? It is a sacrifice to make this step but it is something that our society needs. Will you be afraid to take that stand? Will you say, like the man in the prophecy,  "I can not cure your ills"? Or will you step up, full of the Holy Spirit and power, and say I will lead these people. I will speak the Word of God to this generation. If no one else will than I will!

The Prayer:

Lord, fill me with your Holy Spirit. Fill me with boldness and power to take up the mantel of leadership in my generation. Lead me and guide me as I live in this era and in this society. In Jesus' name, Amen!

Become Children of God! - December 26th, 2011

¹⁰ He was in the world, and the world was made through Him, and the world did not know Him. ¹¹ He came to His own, and His own did not receive Him. ¹² But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name: ¹³ who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.

John 1:10-13

History and Context:

The book of John is the fourth Gospel and it is believed to be the last written. John was one of the inner three of Jesus' disciples and referred to himself as "the disciple whom Jesus loved". John seemed to have written his Gospel for those who had already known the story of Jesus. He focuses on the meaning of the events rather than the events themselves. There is also a strong focus on the words and teachings of Jesus, specifically on Jesus' claims about Himself. These claims are best known as the seven "I am" statements. John probably wrote this Gospel in Ephesus somewhere around 70 AD.

 

The Text:

This may not be a popular verse read at Christmas time but really it is relevant to Christmas. Jesus Christ came to the world which He Himself made, but that very same world did not receive Him. The very people who He calls His own rejected Him. Even so He gave us this opportunity, that if we do accept Him, we have the right to become children of God. That is an amazing opportunity! We can be children of the Most High Creator of the universe! All we have to do is accept Jesus Christ, yet so many do not.

 

The Challenge:

You may be one who has rejected Him. The great thing about this offer is that no matter how much you reject Him, as long as you are alive, the offer is still open. He is still there with His arms open to you and all you have to do is accept Him. The Christmas season is the perfect time to make this decision because we are celebrating Jesus coming to this earth as a baby, but also as a Savior. Join the celebration! Accept Him for who He is. His promise is that when you accept Him you will be born again of the Spirit into His family. You will be a son or a daughter of God!

 

The Prayer:

Lord, I accept you as my Savior! Come into my life and allow me to be born in your Spirit. Start showing me how to live and give me the power to follow. In Jesus' name, Amen!

Great Joy for all People! - December 22nd, 2011

⁸ Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. ⁹ And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. ¹⁰ Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. ¹¹ For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.

Luke 2:8-11

History and Context:

Of the four Gospels, Luke gives us the most thorough account of the life of Jesus. Luke was a doctor, an educated man, who was careful to study out all writings and testimonies (most likely using Mark as a main source) and compiled an accurate account of the life of Jesus. He addressed his letter to Theophilus, a roman, although it is still debated whether this was a real name or simply a representative of the church as a whole. Theophilus simply means "friend of God" so many historians believe that Luke was using the name to address all of "God's friends". As Matthew seemed to emphasize the royalty of Christ and Mark seemed to emphasize His power, Luke seems to emphasize the love and compassion of Christ. Although there are some historical points of Luke's Gospel which are still debated, archaeology has generally proved him to be an accurate historian.

The Text:

Here is another famous Christmas text. The angels have appeared to the shepherds outside of Bethlehem and are announcing the birth of Jesus. They tell them that they are bringing tidings of great joy and that this baby will be a savior to all people. This is an extremely popular passage and we quote multiple times every Christmas season, but we rarely ever ask why. Why did the angels go to the shepherds? Why did they bring people in at all? When you think about it we know that Herod wasn't happy about the birth of Jesus and wanted to find Him, so bringing attention to where He was wouldn't seem like a good idea. Of course God knows all and He knew that nothing would happen in this situation, but also I think it shows us something about God. He never wants to celebrate alone. He desires relationship and so He went out to the closest people who would be open to the idea and invited them in. He didn't want Joseph and Mary to celebrate the birth of Jesus alone so He surrounded them with new friends.

The Challenge:

Just keep this in mind this holiday season. This is why we celebrate with others around us. We do this because it was put in our nature to desire to be around other people. It is part of how God made us, to be like Him. Let us share the joy of Christmas with those around us as we celebrate this year. Let us share the message of Jesus with strangers and family alike. Let us proclaim the Good News that our savior was already born in Bethlehem over two thousand years ago and that He is the savior for all people. Let us glorify God together this holiday season.

The Prayer:

Lord, help me to share with those around me your good news and your joy this Christmas season. Especially let me share with those in my family and friends who don't know you. Use this Christmas to share with them your message. In Jesus' name, Amen!

Prophesy blessing over your children! - December 19th, 2011

⁷⁶“ And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Highest;
For you will go before the face of the Lord to prepare His ways,
⁷⁷ To give knowledge of salvation to His people
By the remission of their sins,
⁷⁸ Through the tender mercy of our God,
With which the Dayspring from on high has visited^[e] us;
⁷⁹ To give light to those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death,
To guide our feet into the way of peace.”
⁸⁰ So the child grew and became strong in spirit, and was in the deserts till the day of his manifestation to Israel.

Luke 1:76-80

History and Context:
Of the four Gospels, Luke gives us the most thorough account of the life of Jesus. Luke was a doctor, an educated man, who was careful to study out all writings and testimonies (most likely using Mark as a main source) and compiled an accurate account of the life of Jesus. He addressed his letter to Theophilus, a roman, although it is still debated whether this was a real name or simply a representative of the church as a whole. Theophilus simply means "friend of God" so many historians believe that Luke was using the name to address all of "God's friends". As Matthew seemed to emphasize the royalty of Christ and Mark seemed to emphasize His power, Luke seems to emphasize the love and compassion of Christ. Although there are some historical points of Luke's Gospel which are still debated, archaeology has generally proved him to be an accurate historian.

The Text:
This text comes from the prophecy of Zacharias directly after his son John was born. Zacharias was a priest who was visited by an angel and was told that his wife, Elizabeth would become pregnant. Due to how old Elizabeth and he were, Zacharias didn't believe the angel and because of his unbelief he was made mute from that point until the baby was born. This prophecy was the first words out of his mouth after he regained his speech. He prophesied first a blessing and praise to God in verses 68 - 75, but then he prophesied blessing over his son. Of course this very son became who we know as John the Baptist, the one who prepared the way for our Lord Jesus Christ.

The Challenge:
Today the challenge is specifically for fathers. When I read this I thought how important it is what the father says over his children, especially at such a young age. It is time for the fathers of our generation to start prophesying over their children and over their family. Prophesying blessings and not curses. There are so many families in this society who have been broken because the father is not doing his job, and a lot of it comes from the father's words. We men are called to be the spiritual head of the family and we are to lead our families through prayer, the Word, and prophecy. Step up and take your role!

The Prayer:
Lord, help me to take the role in my family that you have prepared for me. Help me to prophesy good things over my future children and over my wife. Help me to be the spiritual head and leader over this family. In Jesus' name, Amen!

Set yourself apart! - December 17th, 2011

¹³ Therefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and rest your hope fully upon the grace that is to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ; ¹⁴ as obedient children, not conforming yourselves to the former lusts, as in your ignorance; ¹⁵ but as He who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, ¹⁶ because it is written, “Be holy, for I am holy.”
¹⁷ And if you call on the Father, who without partiality judges according to each one’s work, conduct yourselves throughout the time of your stay here in fear; ¹⁸ knowing that you were not redeemed with corruptible things, like silver or gold, from your aimless conduct received by tradition from your fathers, ¹⁹ but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot.

1 Peter 1:13-19

History and Context:

1 Peter 1:1 says, "Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, to the pilgrims of the Dispersion in Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia". From this we get the author of the letter, Peter, and the recipients of the letter, those dispersed among the five provinces of Asia minor. The author doesn't specifically say whether he is speaking to the Jews in those areas or the Gentiles. Peter was a man known for his passion and not always for his control. He was one of the inner three of Jesus' disciples. One of three to experience the transfiguration (Matthew 17), and one of three to be brought further in the Garden of Gethsemene (Matthew 26:37).

The Text:
Quoting from Leviticus, Peter repeats here one of the most astounding and most difficult commands that the Lord has given us; "Be holy, for I am holy." Peter tells us that in the same way God is holy we are to be holy in everything we do. Holy means to be set apart. In other words, we are to set our conduct and our actions apart from how the world acts. We need to act in a way that sets us apart from those around us. We need to live holy in the same way that God Himself is holy. Peter makes it clear here that our actions are important in our walk with God. He says that the very fact that we have been redeemed only through the blood of Christ, a sacrifice that we didn't deserve, should keep us in a fear, or a reverence, that governs our actions to set us apart.

The Challenge:
Isn't it enough of a challenge to just repeat the Lord's words; "Be holy, for I am holy." Let us make sure that we are set apart from the world today. Keep this challenge in mind as you go through your day and ask yourself if you are conforming or settting yourself apart.

The Prayer:
Lord, I know that it is only through your grace and through the blood of your son Jesus Christ that I can truly live up to this challenge. Help me to truly be holy. Help me to truly set myself apart. In Jesus' name, Amen!

Christ in me! - December 15th, 2011

²⁰ I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.

Galatians 2:20

History and Context:

Galatia was a very large province covering the majority of modern day Turkey. Paul is recorded as having founded churches in the Galatian cities of Antioch, Iconium, Lystra, and Derbe on his first missionary journey in Acts 13 and 14. Lystra is also the hometown of Timothy one of Paul's disciples. The letter to the Galatians was probably written around AD 49, the same year in which the committee met in Jerusalem to resolve the issue of whether Gentiles had to obey the Jewish law to be saved; this is the topic of the letter. Paul had taught strongly that salvation is only through grace by faith, but other Jewish leaders had come in and begun teaching that the Gentiles had to be circumcised and begin following the Jewish customs and rituals in order to be saved. Galatians teaches strongly the freedom of believers and the free gift of salvation to all who believe.

The Text:

In Galatians chapter 2 Paul discusses a confrontation that he had with Peter. As mentioned above, the Jews in Galatia were trying to teach that the Gentiles had to be circumcised and follow the Jewish customs in order to earn their salvation and apparently Peter was supporting that belief for a time. So Paul talks about how he had to confront Peter and stand up for the grace of God and that we are not justified by works but through faith. This leads Paul into this statement, that he has been crucified with Christ and it is Christ that lives through him. It is through faith that he lives and follows Christ, and it is Christ in him that allows him to do that.

The Challenge:

Allow Christ to live through you! We should be striving to be more and more like Christ each day and the only way to do that is to allow Christ to shine through you. Get closer to Him, spend time in His presence. Include Him in your entire day. If you do this then people around you will see Him when they look at you, they will feel His presence when they are around you. Live by faith in the grace of God and allow Christ to live through you.

The Prayer:

Lord, live through me, shine through me. Let others see you when they look at me. Let others feel your presence as their with me. I want to be your vessel to shine your light to those around me. In Jesus' name, Amen!

Nothing is Impossible! - December 14th, 2011

³⁵ And the angel answered and said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Highest will overshadow you; therefore, also, that Holy One who is to be born will be called the Son of God. ³⁶ Now indeed, Elizabeth your relative has also conceived a son in her old age; and this is now the sixth month for her who was called barren. ³⁷ For with God nothing will be impossible.”
³⁸ Then Mary said, “Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her.

Luke 1:35-38

History and Context:

Of the four Gospels, Luke gives us the most thorough account of the life of Jesus. Luke was a doctor, an educated man, who was careful to study out all writings and testimonies (most likely using Mark as a main source) and compiled an accurate account of the life of Jesus. He addressed his letter to Theophilus, a roman, although it is still debated whether this was a real name or simply a representative of the church as a whole. Theophilus simply means "friend of God" so many historians believe that Luke was using the name to address all of "God's friends". As Matthew seemed to emphasize the royalty of Christ and Mark seemed to emphasize His power, Luke seems to emphasize the love and compassion of Christ. Although there are some historical points of Luke's Gospel which are still debated, archaeology has generally proved him to be an accurate historian.

The Text:

Here the angel Gabriel is announcing to Mary that she will become pregnant and give birth to the Son of God. We all know the story, that Mary was a virgin and was engaged to Joseph and became impregnated by the Holy Spirit. Of course at first Mary questioned how it could happen but when the Angel assured her that it would happen through the Spirit of God and that with God all things are possible, Mary immediately believed and said "let it be..." Think about the amazing faith that would take! 

The Challenge:

As we approach this holiday season let us remember this statement, "with God nothing is impossible"! No matter what situation you might be in God is able to bring you out of it. No matter what you desire to happen in the new year, God can bring it to pass. With God nothing is impossible! If God can impregnate a virgin then God can take care of your situation. He is in control and He is good! Be encouraged and be strengthened!

The Prayer:

Lord, I believe! I believe that you will bring to pass what you have spoken to me. Let it be done according to your Word! In Jesus' name, Amen!

Entertaining Angels! - December 12th, 2011

¹ Let brotherly love continue. ² Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some have unwittingly entertained angels. ³ Remember the prisoners as if chained with them—those who are mistreated—since you yourselves are in the body also. Hebrews 13:1-3

History and Context:

The author of the Epistle to the Hebrews is still unknown. Many early scholars attributed it to Paul, but modern scholars are mostly in agreement that it was not him. There are many theories ranging from Barnabas, to Apollos, to Priscilla. The primary purpose of the Letter to the Hebrews is to exhort Jews and Christians to persevere in the face of persecution, but it is also known for it's unique perspective on the person of Christ.

The Text:
This is the final instructions of the author of Hebrews in his letter. He exhorts them to continue loving, to entertain strangers, and to remember the prisoners. He starts out with a exhortation to let 'brotherly love' continue. When we hear that we think immediately of our friends and family, fellow Christians, etc. But then he immediately goes into talking about entertaining strangers. Give hospitality to those you don't know. In other words brotherly love isn't just for the brothers in Christ but for everybody. Lastly he reminds them to keep in mind those who are in prison or are persecuted for the Gospel.

The Challenge:
These last two instructions are things that we, in today's society, need to learn. How many of us treat strangers differently than those who we know and are close to? Even walking down the street we will barely even acknowledge someone if we don't know them, but when we know them we smile and hug and get excited. Why can't we at least give a smile to the stranger? When we're at church or work we talk and joke with those who are our close friends but we ignore those who we haven't met yet. We should be entertaining all who come our way, even the strangers.

The other one that we, especially in the western world, need to work on is remembering the prisoners. It is easy for us to forget that there are many around the world suffering for the Gospel. Let us remember them in our prayers and continue to be grateful for the freedom that we have. If we get a chance let us also partner with those brothers and sisters around the world.

The Prayer:
Lord, help me to show your hospitality to those around me. Help me to treat strangers, as well as friends, as your children. Also be with those around the world who are suffering for you. Give them strength and support in their time of tribulation. Deliver them from their persecution. In Jesus' name, Amen!

Love never ends! - December 11th, 2011

Love never ends. As for prophecies, they will pass away; as for tongues, they will cease; as for knowledge, it will pass away.
1 Corinthians 13:8
 

History and Context:
1 Corinthians was written by Paul while he was in Ephesus around 54 AD. In Acts 18 we see the funding of the church in Corinth. Paul spent 18 months there as he established the church. This letter is mainly a response to a letter which Paul recieved from the Corinthians. He says that some of what he heard about the church made him feel 'uneasy' (1 Corinthians 1:11; 5:1) and so he wanted to address these issues. He also answered questions which were presented in the letter. Corinth was a trade city that was known for being very corrupt. As people converted to following Jesus, they often did not realize that they had to leave their corrupt ways behind. Paul is mainly addressing a group of high status men who have become Christians but left their lives unchanged.

The Text:
1 Corinthians 13 is known as the love chapter. It is the most detailed breakdown of what true love is in the entire Bible. In chapter 12 Paul discusses the spiritual gifts and how the Holy Spirit distributes them to those whom He wills, but then he takes a break from the gifts to make it clear that without love all of those gifts are useless. After listing all the characteristics of love Paul ends with this one, that love never ends. Prophecies and all the spiritual gifts will all fade away, but it is love that remains forever, it is love that never fails of falls away, it is love that never ends.

The Challenge:In today's society we seem to be seeing 'love' end all over the place. Divorce rates are rising and more and more people are simply not even wanting to enter into the commitment of marriage because they don't trust that it will last. What Paul is telling us here is that there was never true 'Agape' love in those relationships. True love does not end. True love never falls away. True love will fight through until the end and will continue no matter what comes against it. True love is a daily choice. Let's rebel against society's view of love and begin acting in true love, not only towards our spouses but towards all those around us.

The Prayer:Lord, show me what true love is and help me to love those around me in the same way that you love me. In Jesus' name, Amen!

"Do you not fear me?" - December 10th, 2011

²¹‘ Hear this now, O foolish people,
Without understanding,
Who have eyes and see not,
And who have ears and hear not:
²² Do you not fear Me?’ says the LORD.  

... 
²³ But this people has a defiant and rebellious heart;
They have revolted and departed.
²⁴ They do not say in their heart,
“ Let us now fear the LORD our God,
Who gives rain, both the former and the latter, in its season.
He reserves for us the appointed weeks of the harvest.”
²⁵ Your iniquities have turned these things away,
And your sins have withheld good from you.

Jeremiah 5:21-25

History and Context:

Jeremiah was known as the weeping prophet, because he constantly wept over the city of Jerusalem. He constantly had to prophesy destruction over Jerusalem because of their sin, but the people never listened to him. He was constantly beat and thrown in prison because of his messages, but he stuck to prophesying the truth of what God told Him and God continued to confirm him as the true prophet by causing what he prophesied to come to pass. Even though Jeremiah was constantly prophesying destruction, he also was prophesying hope. His message was always "turn back to God and the destruction will eventually pass."

The Text:

This is God speaking through Jeremiah to the people of Israel. These are pretty harsh words asking the Israelites why they do not fear the Lord. He reminds them that it is He that controls the seasons and controls whether their crops grow or not and yet they do not fear Him. the word fear means literally 'to stand in awe or in reverence'. They did not revere Him and were not in awe of Him. They had forgotten that It was the Lord that provided for them. They had forgotten that without Him they would've still been slaves in Egypt like their ancestors, and that without Him they wouldn't have any food because they wouldn't be able to grow their crops. Finally the Lord makes it clear that it was their own sins that had withheld good from them. It was their own choices and it is their own choice whether they return to that state of goodness.

The Challenge:

The challenge is simple: Don't repeat the mistakes of the Israelites! Don't forget how awesome God is. In today's society we love to preach about how close God wants to be with us and that is important. The entire basis of Christianity is relationship with our Lord and Creator, but we can't allow that desire for relationship to cause us to forget how great and how awesome He is. We can't take ourselves out of His presence thinking we can just do whatever we want and then return to Him. This is what happened to the Israelites when God said that there sin has withheld good from them. Don't let your sin withhold God's goodness from you!

The Prayer:

Lord, reveal to me your greatness. Continue to reveal to me how awesome you are each day. Don't let me lose my fear and reverence of you. I love you! In Jesus' name, Amen!



Rejoice in Peace! - December 9th, 2011

⁴ Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice!
⁵ Let your gentleness be known to all men. The Lord is at hand.
⁶ Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; ⁷ and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

Philippians 4:4-7

History and Context:

The church in Phillipi was one of the first churches in Europe. This means these are some of the first believers in what we now know as the "Western World". Paul visited them around 49-50 AD and then at least two more times after that in 56 and 57 AD. One of the first Christians in Phillipi was the jailer who was assigned to guard Paul and Silas (and the other prisoners) when they were thrown in prison. God used an earthquake to set them free and to convince this jailer of His reality. (Acts 16:25-34) This letter was written in response to the church sending Epaphroditus to Paul to help him in his time of need.

The Text:

Some of Paul's most challenging and most life changing statements come in his closing instructions in his letters. Here are some of the closing statements in his letter to the Philippians. First he tells us to always rejoice, no matter what is happening in our lives, to make the choice to rejoice. Then he tells us to be gentle and lastly he tells us to not be anxious. He says simply give your requests to God and trust that He will answer you. Let His peace flood your heart and mind. The reason he calls this a peace that passes all understanding is because it comes when everything around us is in turmoil.

The Challenge:
The first thing we are told to do here is to rejoice, then to let our requests be made to God. I don't know where you are at in this holiday season. It is a season that is supposed to be filled with joy, but for many it is filled with stress or even sadness in remembrance of family who has passed. But wherever you are at it is time to rejoice! Rejoice always and again I say rejoice! Take time to send your prayers to God and allow His peace to come into your hearts today. Allow His joy to take you over.

The Prayer:
Lord, I choose to rejoice and I choose to accept your peace in my life. Fill me with your peace and joy and allow me to spread it to those around me this holiday season. In Jesus' name, Amen!

Only One Way! - December 8th, 2011

¹ “Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me. ² In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. ³ And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also. ⁴ And where I go you know, and the way you know.”
⁵ Thomas said to Him, “Lord, we do not know where You are going, and how can we know the way?”
⁶ Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me."

John 14:1-6

History and Context:

The book of John is the fourth Gospel and it is believed to be the last written. John was one of the inner three of Jesus' disciples and referred to himself as "the disciple whom Jesus loved". John seemed to have written his Gospel for those who had already known the story of Jesus. He focuses on the meaning of the events rather than the events themselves. There is also a strong focus on the words and teachings of Jesus, specifically on Jesus' claims about Himself. These claims are best known as the seven "I am" statements. John probably wrote this Gospel in Ephesus somewhere around 70 AD.

The Text:

In this passage Jesus is talking to His disciples and trying to prepare them for what is going to happen next. He knows that the time is coming soon for Him to die and He knows that it will be difficult for them, but He also knows that the end result is victory. He tells them that He is going somewhere and that they already know the way to where He is going because He is the way. He also promises them that He is preparing a place for each of them and will return to get them.

The Challenge:

Notice the use of the word the. Jesus is the way! Not a way of many but the only way. So many are saying that Jesus was a good teacher but not the only way to heaven. Both of those statements can not be true, because Jesus taught that He is the only way to heaven. So either He is the only way or He was lying and is therefore not a good teacher. Know that He is the only way and that He is a preparing a place for all of those who have accepted Him as the way. Be ready when He returns!

The Prayer:

Lord, thank you for making it clear that you are the only way to heaven! Thank you for preparing a place for me and I am very excited to see it and to be with you for eternity! In Jesus' name, Amen!

A choice of life or death! - December 6th, 2011

 ¹⁰ The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.

John 10:10 

History and Context:

The book of John is the fourth Gospel and it is believed to be the last written. John was one of the inner three of Jesus' disciples and referred to himself as "the disciple whom Jesus loved". John seemed to have written his Gospel for those who had already known the story of Jesus. He focuses on the meaning of the events rather than the events themselves. There is also a strong focus on the words and teachings of Jesus, specifically on Jesus' claims about Himself. These claims are best known as the seven "I am" statements. John probably wrote this Gospel in Ephesus somewhere around 70 AD.

 

The Text:

This statement comes right between two of Jesus' "I am" statements. Just before in verse seven Jesus says, "I am the door of the sheep..." Then just after in verse eleven Jesus says, "I am the good shepherd..." So Jesus' statement contrasting the thief's goals with His own  is still in the analogy of the sheep and the shepherd. Jesus is our shepherd protecting us from the thief, but it is still our choice who we follow. Do we follow the thief towards destruction, or do we follow the good shepherd unto abundant life? There are only two choices. Do we choose life or do we choose death? Jesus has made it clear what the enemies intent is and has also made it clear what His own intent is. If we believe Him and trust Him then it should be clear which way we go.

The Challenge:

One thing that Jesus made clear here is that it is not His will for us to simply live. He said that He has come to bring us life, but He didn't stop there. He has come to give us abundant life. Abundant means: "Existing or available in large quantities; plentiful". Do you see yourself in abundant life, or are you just getting by? So many Christians today are just getting by. It's time for us to stop just getting by and live in the abundance that He has for us. It's time for us to start following the life that He has for us rather than our own plans. It is in our own plans that we open of doors for the thief. It is in barely getting by that we find our dreams and goals destroyed and it is without dreams or goals, or vision, that we perish and we find death.

 

The Prayer:

Lord, I'm tired of just getting by. I'm tired of barely making it. I want to step into the life that you have for me! Help me to make that decision today and every day! In Jesus' name, Amen!

What are you thinking about? - December 3rd, 2011

8 Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things. 9 The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you.

History and Context:
The church in Phillipi was one of the first churches in Europe. This means these are some of the first believers in what we now know as the "Western World". Paul visited them around 49-50 AD and then at least two more times after that in 56 and 57 AD. One of the first Christians in Phillipi was the jailer who was assigned to guard Paul and Silas (and the other prisoners) when they were thrown in prison. God used an earthquake to set them free and to convince this jailer of His reality. (Acts 16:25-34) This letter was written in response to the church sending Epaphroditus to Paul to help him in his time of need.

The Text:
This is some of the final instructions of Paul to the church in Phillipi before he closes his letter. After going one of the most encouraging and challenging passages of Paul's letters in chapter 3 Paul ends talking about their thoughts. He tells them to be careful what they set their mind on. Set it on things which are pure and holy, things that are excellent and commendable. These are the things they should be focused on. He then follows up to give himself as an example as to how they should act. This is one of Paul's boldest statements which he repeats a few times throughout his letters, 'look at me and do as I do'.

The Challenge Often we tend to think that our thoughts don't matter. People don't know what we are thinking so our thinking doesn't affect anyone, as long as we don't act on it. But Paul here finds our thinking important enough that he leaves it as one of the last instructions. Our thinking is the basis and the foundation for everything around us. If we are thinking wrong thoughts than we will eventually believe those thoughts and in the end we will act on them. The challenge today is to change your thinking. Change your thinking and you will change your life!

The Prayer Lord, I pray that you will help me to focus on things of you. Help me to change my thinking to things of excellence and worthy of praise. Help me to purify my thinking Lord. In Jesus' name, Amen!

Are your words useless? - December 2nd, 2011

⁵ Now the purpose of the commandment is love from a pure heart, from a good conscience, and from sincere faith, ⁶ from which some, having strayed, have turned aside to idle talk, ⁷ desiring to be teachers of the law, understanding neither what they say nor the things which they affirm. 

1 Timothy 1:5-7

History and Context:

1 Timothy belongs to what scholars have labeled as the Pastoral Epistles (1 & 2 Timothy and Titus). They are named the Pastoral Epistles because they deal directly with issues of leadership in the church. Timothy was probably a convert from Paul's first missionary journey, when he traveled to Lystra. After that Timothy begun traveling with Paul and taking various assignments. In other letters we can see that it was often Timothy that would carry Paul's letters to the various churches. At the time in which Paul wrote 1 and 2 Timothy, Timothy was in Ephesus and had been sent there in order to lead the church and to train and build leaders for the church. 1 Timothy is written as general instructions towards the Timothy as a leader.

The Text:

This is the introduction to the first letter from Paul to Timothy. Directly after introducing himself, the writer, and addressing Timothy, Paul immediately begins talking about the purpose behind the commandments of God and  the motivation we should have when we teach them. Paul's first letter to Timothy has a strong focus on the truth and how we should share the truth with others. Paul jumps write into that topic in the first chapter. He says that as we teach the law of God we should be sure to do it in love with pure motivations from our heart, a clear conscience knowing that we walk according to what we teach, and a sincere and unwavering trust and belief in the God of whom we preach. He says that those who do not teach with these things are simple talking idly, or without use. They do not truly understand the Gospel or the message which they preach and therefore they might as well stop preaching.

The Challenge:

Do you truly understand the Gospel? Do you truly understand the law? Is your heart pure, your conscience clear, and your faith sincere? We are all called to be teachers in some form or fashion, so these are important questions for all of us. Make sure that your words aren't useless. Let God strengthen your faith and trust in Him, purify your heart, and clear your conscience.

The Prayer:

Lord, give me a greater understanding of your word and your commandments. Help me to be committed to studying your Word and strengthening my faith in you and my love for those around me. In Jesus' name, Amen!

Before You had formed the earth... - December 1st, 2011

¹ Lord, You have been our dwelling place in all generations. 

² Before the mountains were brought forth,

Or ever You had formed the earth and the world,
Even from everlasting to everlasting, You are God. 

Psalm 90:1-2

History and Context:

The Psalms are a collection of old hymns which the Jews used to bring praise and worship to Yahweh. Most of them were written by King David, but there were also other contributors and a few have unknown authors. This particular psalm is the oldest of all the psalms having been written by Moses, the leader of Israel's exodus out of Egypt.

The Text:

Psalm 90 was written by Moses as a psalm of awe and reverence at the power and 'wrath' of God. Moses clearly understood the power of God and what it meant to fear Him in reverence and awe. To start the psalm out Moses reminds His readers that the Lord has been around longer than anything on this earth. He was the one that formed the mountains and the earth and was around long before they were formed. Moses also declares that the Lord has been their dwelling place. They have dwelt in the Lord and lived in His presence.

The Challenge:

Often we, humans, have a tendency to think that the Lord doesn't understand us or our situation. At least we tend to act as if we think that way. But this simple statement shows us how much He does understand. The Lord has been around, not only much longer than us, but much longer than anything we ever have known. He has been a part of the experiences of every human being in the history of the world, and as Ecclesiastes shares with us "there is nothing new under the sun." Make the Lord your dwelling place and hear from Him. No one understands your situation better than Him, not even yourself.

The Prayer:

Lord, I trust you and your understanding of my situation. Lead me as to what I should do and where I should go. Help me to simply dwell in you, in your presence. In Jesus' name, Amen!