Daily Devotions

Now those who had been scattered by the persecution in connection with Stephen traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus and Antioch, telling the message only to Jews. Some of them, however, men from Cyprus and Cyrene, went to Antioch and began to speak to Greeks also, telling them the good news about the Lord Jesus. The Lord’s hand was with them, and a great number of people believed and turned to the Lord.

Acts 11:19-21

Scattered by the Wind!

Last fall our lawn was sprayed to kill the dandelions.  This year our lawn was filled with them.  Last fall I cleaned out our garden and didn’t plant anything.  This spring the garden area was filled with weeds.  The reason?  Seeds were blown by the wind and deposited all over our yard.  We would never have known except those seeds took root and began to grow.

The spread of the good news about Jesus happens in a similar way.  Although it’s not the physical wind that blows, the Spirit of God blows when and where he wishes.  For the early believers, the impetus for scattering the seeds of the gospel was the persecution of Christians in Jerusalem.  What seemed like a hardship and tragic situation, led individuals out of Jerusalem into the surrounding areas.  Wherever they went, they planted gospel seeds, “telling them the good news about Jesus.”  The result? “…a great number of people believed and turned to the Lord.”

Are you open to where God might “scatter” you to connect you with someone who needs to hear the “good news about the Lord Jesus?”  As you travel on your next business trip, plan your next vacation, drive for the next field trip or contemplate a major move, are you open to God’s Spirit scattering the good news of Jesus through you?  The place where God has you today and the place he will take you tomorrow is a place where he wants to use you to connect a soul to the saving message of Jesus.

Your confidence?  “The Lord’s hand was with them…”  You are not alone.  Even if the reason for a move or transition is painful, know that just as the wind blows seeds to plant them, so the Spirit scatters God’s people to plant the gospel message in the hearts of people all around.

Prayer: 

Lord, open my eyes to see individuals around me wherever I am today that need the good news about Jesus.  Grant me your Spirit to embolden me to speak, trusting you are with me and will work through the words you give me to speak.  Amen.

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This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

Devotion - May 18, 2012 --Daily Devotion

Abraham fell facedown; he laughed and said to himself, “Will a son be born to a man a hundred years old? Will Sarah bear a child at the age of ninety?” And Abraham said to God, “If only Ishmael might live under your blessing!” Then God said, “Yes, but your wife Sarah will bear you a son, and you will call him Isaac. I will establish my covenant with him as an everlasting covenant for his descendants after him. And as for Ishmael, I have heard you: I will surely bless him; I will make him fruitful and will greatly increase his numbers. He will be the father of twelve rulers, and I will make him into a great nation. But my covenant I will establish with Isaac, whom Sarah will bear to you by this time next year.”

Genesis 17:17-21

Prayers of the Bible - Expressing the Desires of the Heart

God called Abraham and promised to make him the “father of many nations.”  Most importantly, God promised that from his descendants would come the one who would be a blessing for all peoples on earth—the Savior, Jesus Christ.  But as the years passed, Abraham wondered how God would fulfill his promises since he remained childless. In sinful weakness, Abraham took matters into his own hands and had a son with Hagar, his wife's maid.  However, God intervened and told Abraham clearly that the the promises he made would not be fulfilled through Ishmael.  Even at ages that were well passed childbearing years, God declared that Abraham and his wife Sarah would have a son born to them.  Abraham laughed with joy that God’s promise would be fulfilled soon.  At the same time, his thoughts turned toward his son, Ishmael, now that it was very clear that God’s covenant was not going to be fulfilled through him.  Abraham’s love for Ishmael prompted him to speak his heart's desire to God: "If only Ishmael might live under your blessing!"

God's answer was, "Yes, but..." He told Abraham, "Yes, but your wife Sarah will bear you a son, and you will call him Isaac. I will establish my covenant with him as an everlasting covenant for his descendants after him."

When someone answers "Yes, BUT..." it makes me cringe. Usually it makes me cringe because I realize that the answer is going to be different than what I want. For Abraham it meant that Ishmael would not be the one through whom the covenant would be fulfilled, yet he would be blessed.

God's plan was different from Abraham's plan. God was faithful to his promise and he was going to make sure that the lineage of the Messiah would be accomplished by his power and not by man's scheming. God was going to use Isaac and his descendants to carry out his plan.

Like Abraham, we always have the freedom to express our heart's desire to the Lord. But like Abraham, we must learn to accept God's answers in the realization that he has a better plan.

Prayer: 

Lord, I love you with all my heart. Give me an undivided heart which gladly accepts your answers to my prayers. Amen.

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Devotion - May 17, 2012 --Daily Devotion

Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us.

1 John 4:7-12

God’s Love Changes Our Lives

“Dad, how come every song is about love?”  Even my 11 year-old daughter recognizes that there is no topic quite as popular as love.  It’s the theme of an entire genre of movies, the driving force behind many poems, and the basis for interesting conversations at work.  Love.  We can’t seem to get it off our minds.  Yet do we really know what love is? 

The apostle John says that “God is love.”  He explains, “This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him.”  God’s love is more than an abstraction, more than a feeling, more than a philosophical concept.  It is a definite reality in Jesus Christ.  Here we see what love really is.  In Christ we learn that God’s love is sacrificial, unconditional and totally undeserving.  God loved sinners so much that he sent his one and only Son to suffer and die for us, so that we might have life with him forever.  This is love.  It reaches down from heaven and changes our lives. 

Those who know the love of God want to love others.  At the end of the wedding ceremony the pastor sometimes tells the bridegroom, “You may kiss the bride.”  The groom usually doesn’t feel like this is some burdensome obligation that he has to carry out.  Instead he rejoices because it’s exactly what he wants to do!  It’s kind of the same when John encourages believers to love one another.  Since we have experienced God’s love in our lives through Jesus Christ, since we know that he has forgiven our sins and made us his children, this is exactly what we want to do.  We want to love others as God has loved us.  Amazingly, when we do, others might see God’s love in us.  They might see this love and wonder about its source.  It’s then that we can point others to God who loved us enough to send his Son to die for the sins of the world.

Prayer: 

Dear heavenly Father, we thank you for demonstrating your love for us in Jesus Christ.  Help us throw off our selfish sinful nature and to love others as you have loved us.  May this lead others to see your love!  Amen.

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Devotion - May 16, 2012 --Daily Devotion

What is our hope, our joy, or the crown in which we will glory in the presence of our Lord Jesus when he comes? Is it not you?

Philippians 2:19

Another Joy Story—You!

One of the great joys that I have as a pastor is working full-time to bring the gospel of Jesus Christ to people. And just like a farmer who sows seed in his field is pleased to see the green sprouts shooting up, maturing and bearing fruit, so it is with me.  As I share God’s joy-filled message of salvation with people, I rejoice to see the miracle of spiritual life that God works in them by means of his Word.

The apostle Paul expressed this truth beautifully in his letter to his Christian friends at Philippi. He wrote to them, “What is our hope, our joy, or the crown in which we will glory in the presence of our Lord Jesus when he comes? Is it not you?”  Paul rejoiced that the gospel which he preached in that city took root in the hearts of those people.  They had come to know Jesus and loved him.  They demonstrated their faith by their Christian service, and they lived in the hope of the glory of heaven. 

For this reason Paul rejoiced because the good news of Jesus created saving faith and bore wonderful fruit in the lives of the Christians at Philippi.  They were a joy story for him.  Just as people to whom I have the privilege of telling the Word are my joy.  Like you!  The Word of God that you read and hear through these daily devotions works in your life to draw you close to God, fill you with the peace of his forgiveness, comforts you with his abiding presence, strengthens you with his promises, compels you to love and serve him and others, and assures you with eternal hope. 

Yes! You are a joy story, too!

Prayer: 

My Prayer for You (Philippians 1:3-6):
I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, 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.

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All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

Devotion - May 15, 2012 --Daily Devotion

“As the Father has loved me, so I have loved you.  Now remain in my love.”

John 15:9

A Close Knit Family

Anyone who knew the Smith family was amazed at how close knit they were.  The parents were actively engaged in their children’s activities.  The children genuinely appreciated their parent’s company.  This closeness was seen in everything they did.  From going to worship on Sunday mornings to going on vacations in the summer, they made certain they remained close.  Even when they sat down for dinner in the evening, they did not allow any distractions.  There were no televisions or radios playing, no texts received, and no phone calls answered.

While most people considered their closeness an exception, the Smiths regarded it as normal.  When pressed for their reason, they simply said, “It is important, so we make it happen.”

Today families are being fractured and forced into many different directions.  Is there any wonder why the goal to remain close knit is a priority?  Is there any wonder why it is even more important to pursue this goal as a member of God’s family?

God the Father went to great lengths to adopt me and bring me into his family.  When I had no thought of loving him, he loved me and even sent his Son to reveal it.  This meant Jesus had to live a life of total obedience and complete faithfulness which ended with his death on the cross.  In this way, Jesus accomplished everything God the Father required for my rescue from sin and its punishment.  Jesus also accomplished what was needed for me to be called God’s child and a member of his family.

As a part of God’s family I need to take Jesus’ words to heart.  He says, “Remain in my love.”  If there is anything that will keep me closely knit to my heavenly Father and his family, it is Jesus’ love.  It is this love which binds me to every believer, as well as to my Father.  It is this love which guards me when the devil tries to lead me astray.  It is this love which opens my eyes to the importance of daily repentance, forgiveness, prayer and the study of his Word.  It is this love which comforts me with the promise of a blessed reunion in heaven.  There I will be reunited with all the members of God’s family, and I will live with my heavenly Father and my loving Savior forever.

While I may desire a close knit family for this life, I may or may not attain it.  In contrast, because of God’s love in Jesus, I know I can remain a close knit member of God’s family.

Prayer: 

O gracious Lord, I thank you for making me your child through faith in Jesus.  I also ask you to keep me close to you in this life until I join you in heaven.  Amen.

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All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

Devotion - May 14, 2012 --Daily Devotion

Now an angel of the Lord said to Philip, “Go south to the road—the desert road—that goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza.” So he started out, and on his way he met an Ethiopian eunuch, an important official in charge of all the treasury of Candace, queen of the Ethiopians. This man had gone to Jerusalem to worship, and on his way home was sitting in his chariot reading the book of Isaiah the prophet. The Spirit told Philip, “Go to that chariot and stay near it.” . . .

Then Philip ran up to the chariot and heard the man reading Isaiah the prophet. “Do you understand what you are reading?” Philip asked. “How can I,” he said, “unless someone explains it to me?” So he invited Philip to come up and sit with him. The eunuch was reading this passage of Scripture: “He was led like a sheep to the slaughter, and as a lamb before the shearer is silent, so he did not open his mouth. In his humiliation he was deprived of justice. Who can speak of his descendants? For his life was taken from the earth.” The eunuch asked Philip, “Tell me, please, who is the prophet talking about, himself or someone else?” Then Philip began with that very passage of Scripture and told him the good news about Jesus. As they traveled along the road, they came to some water and the eunuch said, “Look, here is water. Why shouldn’t I be baptized?” And he gave orders to stop the chariot. Then both Philip and the eunuch went down into the water and Philip baptized him.  When they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord suddenly took Philip away, and the eunuch did not see him again, but went on his way rejoicing. Acts 8:26-39

 

I coach softball for young girls who are 12-14 years old.  It is a recreational league, so some of the girls have never played softball before. It is my job to try to “meet the new players where they are at”.  I have to figure out how much they know about softball and help them grow as players.  I teach everything from the basics of how to throw and catch properly to the fundamental rules of the game.  I explain how to get someone out, how to score a run and, finally, how to win a game.  It is actually quite satisfying to open a new door of fun and understanding to the girls.

In this reading from Acts chapter 8, the Lord sent Philip to literally meet an Ethiopian official where he was at.  The Lord sent Philip on the road to Gaza where a man from Africa was traveling.  As Philip walked near the chariot he also “met the man where he was at” spiritually.  Philip heard the man reading from the Old Testament book of Isaiah and asked him questions about his reading.  The man was not too proud to ask for help.  He welcomed Philip into his chariot and the adventure of exploring God’s Word began.

One fundamental truth that Philip started with was that all the books of the Bible point to Jesus.  The man from Ethiopia was reading from the 53rd chapter of the book of Isaiah where the Old Testament prophet described the suffering that the Christ would have to endure to pay for our debt of sin.  God would punish Jesus as our substitute and he would die.  Philip explained how Jesus perfectly fulfilled that prophecy.  And surely he told the man the wonderful truth that Jesus rose from the dead and that all who believe in him are saved.  What a great message!

Another important truth he shared was the blessing and necessity of God’s gift of baptism.  God uses the picture of water washing away dirt to show how he washes away sin through baptism.  The Ethiopian man confessed his need for baptism to wash away his sins.  He believed in Jesus and desired the blessings promised by God in baptism.  It was no surprise that this man requested baptism when they came to a place where there was water.

Philip met this man from Ethiopia where he was at and taught him the fundamentals of the Christian faith.  The man left with not only a better understanding of the Bible, but with joy that came from a heart filled with faith through the work of the Holy Spirit.

Where are you at today?  Do you need someone to meet you where you are at?  I would encourage you to start by reading a Bible and if you have questions you can find help online at www.whataboutjesus.com.  Let the Lord meet you where you are at, you won’t be disappointed.

Prayer: 

Show me your ways, O Lord, teach me your paths; guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long (Psalm 25:4-5).

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Devotion - May 11, 2012 --Daily Devotion

The jailer… asked, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” Paul and Silas replied, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved—you and your household.” Then they spoke the word of the Lord to him and to all the others in his house. At that hour of the night the jailer took them and washed their wounds; then immediately he and all his family were baptized.

Acts 16:30-33

A Joy Story – A Jailer Is Set Free

Paul and Silas were in the city of Philippi. They had been jailed for proclaiming the gospel. Rather than demanding to see an attorney or singing the jailhouse blues, they demonstrated their faith by praising God with hymns and prayers. It was truly a unique experience for their fellow prisoners and, as we learn, it had an impact on their jailer as well.

About midnight an earthquake shook the city of Philippi. The jail was so rattled by the tremor that the cell doors opened. The jailer feared that his prisoners had escaped. He knew that the consequence of losing a prisoner was a death sentence or him. Absent faith, and therefore hope, he saw only one course to take. He drew his sword and was about to end his own life, when Paul stopped him. The apostle told him that the prisoners had not fled. No one had escaped. Everyone was present and accounted for. The jailer had nothing to fear from the authorities, but that didn’t remove the fear of a Judge greater than the Roman government.

A second quake occurred. Not one that shook the earth, but one that awakened in the jailer the great need of forgiveness for his sins! The need of some means by which he might appease the divine Judge.  The jailer asked Paul and Silas, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” He didn’t know his Savior; didn’t understand that it was not about his doing something, but learning what God had already done for him. There was a void in his life that needed to be filled; a chasm that separated him from God. He was searching for the means of being rescued from the guilt of his sin.

The jailer didn’t have to wait long for the rescue. Two redeemed sinners, who understood his need, spoke the answer that every soul needs to hear: “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved.” The stream of living water that brings life and hope to spiritually dead and desolate hearts poured forth from the apostles’ mouths. “They spoke the word of the Lord to him and to all the others in his house. At that hour of the night the jailer took them and washed their wounds; then immediately he and all his family were baptized.” Freedom from bondage to sin! Freedom from the power of the devil! Freedom from the fear of punishment! Now that’s a joy story. And it is intended for you, too!

Prayer: 

(Psalm 106:4-5):
Remember me, O LORD, when you show favor to your people, come to my aid when you save them, that I may enjoy the prosperity of your chosen ones, that I may share in the joy of your nation and join your inheritance in giving praise. Amen.

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Devotion - May 10, 2012 --Daily Devotion

Let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth.

1 John 3:18

More than a Song

If you know the music of the 1970’s, you know the late John Denver. During that decade, John Denver wrote and sang one hit song after another, songs like “Rocky Mountain High” and “Country Roads.” Perhaps his most enduring is “Annie’s Song,” written to his wife.

By Denver’s own admission, he was unfaithful to Annie. After a period of separation, they reconciled and were ready to move forward again as husband and wife. It was during this time that Denver’s emotions moved him to write and sing what he was feeling. It is said that it took him all of about ten minutes. In ten minutes’ time, “Annie’s Song” was born.

But it was just a song. Denver’s unfaithfulness continued. Eventually, that and other issues ended their marriage.

It’s one thing to sing about love. To demonstrate it with actions is something else. It’s one thing to talk about faithfulness. To live it is something else.

It’s one thing to open up a hymnal and sing about our love for Jesus. To show our love for him by how we treat those around us – that’s something else. For that reason, you and I must confess the many times we have failed our Lord; the many times we have sung the song and nothing more.

That’s why Jesus’ love for us was more than a song. It was action. It was commitment. It was faithfulness to the end. Because it was, he went to the cross in our place. He paid the debt of our sin in full. He did what had to be done.

As a result, you and I are forgiven. The stain of our failure is gone. We are at peace with God. And with it he gives us his Spirit, so that our love for him may now begin to blossom and grow.

So we move beyond a song, beyond words, and we love with actions. Just as Jesus loves us.

Prayer: 

Lord Jesus, you love me. Move me to love you in my actions toward others. Amen.

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Devotion - May 9, 2012 --Daily Devotion

All the saints send you greetings, especially those who belong to Caesar’s household.

Philippians 4:22

A Joy Story - An Innocent Man Finds Purpose in Prison

The apostle Paul was innocent of any wrongdoing. Yet he was arrested and imprisoned, even faced possible execution all because he preached the gospel of Jesus Christ. Did he complain? Was he filled with self-pity? Did he doubt God? No. He rejoiced! He was filled with joy because he saw God’s purpose for him. The Lord had put him where he was at that very moment in time. And God always has a reason wherever he leads his children. Paul illustrates one of those reasons in these words near the end of his letter to the Christians in Philippi: “All the saints send you greetings, especially those who belong to Caesar’s household.” Yes! It’s a joy story. A Christian bearing the good news about Jesus finds in his imprisonment, not sorrow, but purpose. He was a missionary who discovered a new field into which God’s gospel could be sowed for a harvest of souls—and this field reached into the home of the pagan emperor of Rome.

Think what that means for you! Look around you. Maybe you’re in a stressful work environment. Maybe you’re a person who is surrounded by unfriendly neighbors. Maybe you’re just one Christian in a family of unbelievers! God has placed you right where he wants you to be at this very time for a specific reason. Look around you again! See God’s purpose for your life. Open your eyes and ears, and when the time is right open your mouth and speak. Tell those people around you what Jesus has done for you and also for them. Watch with expectation the power of that message which can change those who are dead in their sin and unbelief into those who are spiritually alive in Christ.

The joy of our lives is Jesus. He is our Savior who sacrificed his life that we may live forever with God. This joy is so wonderful that we want others to share it with us. So we look for opportunities that God gives us to tell our joy stories of Jesus!

Prayer: 

Lord, it is your will that all come to a knowledge of the truth. Use me to bring the message of salvation to people so that they may be brought to saving faith in Jesus. Help me be your witness even under difficult circumstances. Amen.

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All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

Devotion - May 8, 2012 --Daily Devotion

I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.

John 15:5

Vines, Branches and Fruit

I need Jesus for everything in my life.  This truth is made abundantly clear when he says, “I am the vine and you are the branches.”  The point of the illustration is one I need to take seriously.  Just as a branch gets everything it needs for life by its connection to a vine, so I need to be connected to Jesus to receive everything I need for life.

While the picture may be simple, its implications are sweeping.  Without Jesus I have nothing, and I can do nothing.  I have no true peace, no real joy, no full forgiveness, and no heavenly hope.  Without Jesus I am without God’s promise of protection and guidance, and I have no one to be my mediator and advocate.  Without Jesus I can do nothing to please God or merit his favor.

This is why I need to understand the importance of a close relationship with Jesus.  Again, it is like a vine and branch.  Without a good graft to the vine, the branch will wither and die.  So I need to be carefully and securely grafted to Jesus.  This is more than a passing acquaintance or a general knowledge of some facts.  It means I know from the Bible what he has done for me, and will continue do for me.  It also means I can trust him implicitly and without hesitation.  The result of being so closely grafted to Jesus is that I will naturally produce the “fruit” which he desires.  This is more than the humanitarian good the world requires and praises.  This fruit is the very work which pleases him and which reflects his own unselfish love for me.

This is why I need Jesus to be the most important thing in my life, and why I can never doubt the necessity of his presence or his power.  The moment I am tempted to have doubts or question the importance of his presence, I need to recall his words – “without me you can do nothing.”

With a simple picture of vines, branches and fruit Jesus presents a beautiful lesson on what he offers me for this life, as well as for eternal life.  I need to learn that lesson well.  I also need to rely on Jesus for everything, just as a branch relies on the vine.

Prayer: 

O gracious Lord, I rejoice because you offer me life and strength and help.  Give me the trust I need to rely on every gift you provide in your love.  Then, let me serve you in goodness and love as long as you give me life here on earth.  Amen.

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Devotion - May 7, 2012 --Daily Devotion

On their release, Peter and John went back to their own people and reported all that the chief priests and elders had said to them. When they heard this, they raised their voices together in prayer to God. “Sovereign Lord,” they said, “you made the heaven and the earth and the sea, and everything in them. You spoke by the Holy Spirit through the mouth of your servant, our father David: “‘Why do the nations rage and the peoples plot in vain? The kings of the earth take their stand and the rulers gather together against the Lord and against his Anointed One.” Indeed Herod and Pontius Pilate met together with the Gentiles and the people of Israel in this city to conspire against your holy servant Jesus, whom you anointed. They did what your power and will had decided beforehand should happen. Now, Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great boldness. Stretch out your hand to heal and perform miraculous signs and wonders through the name of your holy servant Jesus.” After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly.

Acts 4:23-31

“I fight authority; authority always wins.”  When John Mellencamp penned these lyrics he struck a chord with many people.  We bristle under authority.  We don’t like to be told what to do.  Whether it is a child being scolded by parents, a student being reprimanded in the principal’s office, a speeding citizen being pulled over by the highway patrol, or a worker answering to his boss, a part of us always wants to fight authority. 

We may chafe under human authority, but our selfish sinful nature will always fight against God’s authority.  The apostles Peter and John were arrested for preaching the good news of Jesus Christ.  The authorities in government and the church were fighting against the authority of the Son of God.  This fight did not surprise the Christians of that day.  They expected it.  In the second Psalm King David used words like “rage, plot, and take their stand” to show the vehement opposition that many would have against God’s authority.

Our battle against God’s authority probably has not led us to shed any blood.  We have never been so blatant as to call for the death of God or the arrest of his servants.  But our sinful nature will always be God’s enemy.  We break God’s law.  We oppose his principles.  We stand in defiance of his statutes.  We adopt lifestyles that separate us from God.  In a very real way we take our stand against God.

The Lord had a plan to reassert his authority, but it was not with lightning bolts or threats of violence.  It was with his great love.  God demonstrates his power in the cross of Jesus where he paid for our sin.  God shows his power in the empty tomb which could not hold the risen Savior.  The early Christians knew that they needed to testify to the truth of Christ’s resurrection from the dead.  They knew that through the good news of Jesus, God would again assert his rightful place as the ruler of the world, and, just as importantly, the ruler of our hearts.

Today God’s mercy calls us to bow our heads, our hearts and maybe even our knees before him.  Confess your sin.  Confess your sinful unwillingness to submit to his authority.  Look once more at Jesus, the Anointed One.  In Jesus we see God’s love and power and authority.  Embrace your Savior King who has already embraced you.

Prayer: 

Dear Lord God, thank you for those who share the good news of Jesus despite the threats that come from those who hate you.  Continue to work through your Word to change the hearts and lives of your people.  Lead us and guide us as our loving King.  Amen.

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Devotion - May 4, 2012 --Daily Devotion

The woman came and knelt before Jesus. “Lord, help me!” she said. He replied, “It is not right to take the children’s bread and toss it to their dogs.” “Yes, Lord,” she said, “but even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters’ table.” Then Jesus answered, “Woman, you have great faith! Your request is granted.”

Matthew 15:25-28a

A Joy Story – Faith Is Rewarded

My wife and I have two dogs which we love very much. They are well cared for. Believe me! They lack nothing! And they are also very confident of our love for them. They don’t worry about where their next meal is coming from, or even when! And if there is something they want, they are quite determined in making sure that we know about it! Rarely if ever do they give up before they obtain what they want. In fact, our dogs’ trust in our ability to take care of their needs is almost, without fail, rewarded.

In the words of Scripture before us today, we hear a brief conversation between a Canaanite woman and Jesus. She came to him with a need that she was confident he could—and would—satisfy. Her daughter was “suffering terribly from demon possession” (Matthew 15:22). “Lord, Son of David, have mercy on me,” she cried out to Jesus. But he didn’t answer her. His disciples suggested that he send her away, but she would have none of that. With great persistence she went to her knees and repeated her plea, “Lord, help me!” Finally, Jesus responded, but not as we would expect. Jesus said, “It is not right to take the children’s bread and toss it to their dogs.”

When my wife makes popcorn, our pet dogs are right there waiting patiently. They are also persistent. They don’t give up until they receive a little reward for their perseverance. They also linger beneath the table in our kitchen when we eat, filled with hope that something will manage to descend to the floor. As my wife often says, “They live in hope.” And I can assure you that their hope does not disappoint them.

Jesus’ words—harsh as they seem—gave hope to that woman. She understood in his words a willingness to provide for her needs. “Yes, Lord,” she said, “but even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters’ table.”

The Canaanite woman’s account in the Bible is a joy story. “Jesus answered, ‘Woman, you have great faith! Your request is granted.’” Jesus loved that woman very much and helped her. And this teaches us that faith in Jesus’ ability and his desire to respond to our needs, both small and great, is not in vain. Jesus loves us and will help! His greatest helpful act was to save us from the punishment of our sins through his death for us. Now faith in Jesus assures us of everlasting life with God. Trusting in Jesus as our Savior makes our life and faith a joy story, too!

Prayer: 

Jesus, the most important thing for me is to have faith in you as my Savior.  Through testing and trials lead me to cling to the precious promises of your Word so that my faith will be sustained until the end when you will take me to the glory of heaven.  Amen.

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Devotion - May 3, 2012 --Daily Devotion

How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God. And that is what we are.

1 John 3:1

CHILD OF GOD

Tim Hansel, in his book, Holy Sweat, tells the story of a walk he once took with his young son.  The two of them were out in the country, climbing around on some small, rocky cliffs.  Tim had his back to his son for a few moments.  Suddenly he heard his boy yell, “Hey Dad! Catch me!”  Tim whirled around and looked up just in time to catch his son.  You see, his son had yelled, “Hey Dad!” and then he had jumped.

Tim was so shocked at first that he could hardly talk.  Finally, when he found his voice, he blurted out, “Zac!  Can you give me one good reason why you did that?”  His son responded with a calm voice.  He said, “Sure, because you’re my dad.”

Think about that for a moment.  As far as the boy was concerned, his dad was trustworthy.  Therefore, no matter what the circumstance, he trusted that his dad would always catch him.  He knew who his father was, and that was that.

Now let’s talk about you.  As you read or listen to these words, what kind of fear are you carrying around in the pit of your stomach?  Is it fear about something at work?  Fear about a lab result you’re waiting for?  Fear about what others think of you?  Is it fear about money?  Fear of looking foolish?  Fear of getting old?  Fear of being alone?

Remember who your Father is.  God sacrificed his own Son to adopt you into his family.  Then he raised his Son to life to assure you he meant what he said.

Does this mean you should jump off a rocky cliff and expect someone to catch you?  No, not at all!  But it does mean that God will never drop you.  It does mean you are his forgiven child.  It does mean you can finally stop being afraid.

Prayer: 

Heavenly Father, through faith in Jesus I am your child.  Because of who you are, I am safe, I am secure, I am never alone.  Fill me with your Spirit.  Drive out my fears.  Empower me to live my life fully for you.  Amen.

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Devotion - May 2, 2012 --Daily Devotion

I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers; he will crush your head, and you will strike his heel.

Genesis 3:15

A Joy Story: The Devil’s Deed Is Overcome with a Promise

Who, besides the villain, doesn’t love the underdog, the downtrodden, that one, who seemingly hasn’t a chance of coming out on top? But then, who can even think of loving the greatest category of underdogs—namely sinners? Sinners are unlovable! They are selfish, rebellious, merciless, mean-spirited, wicked, liars and cheats, and the list can go on and on of all the reasons why sinners are so unlovable. That includes each of us.

But God loves sinners! He has from the very beginning. When Satan tempted Adam and Eve to sin against God, they deliberately disobeyed God and justly deserved the divine sentence of eternal death on themselves and the whole human race. But God demonstrated his great love not only for Adam and Eve, but also for all their descendants. He made a promise! He would send a Savior to suffer the punishment for the sins of all people!

The Bible says, “Love covers over a multitude of sins” and God’s perfect love covers over every sin. Without compromising his justice, God presented his eternal plan for the salvation of sinners. One born of the woman—that’s Jesus—would “crush [Satan’s] head.” Yes, Satan would “strike his heel”—Jesus would suffer and die—but by his death and resurrection Jesus would rescue all humanity from the power of the devil and free them from the curse of sin.

This promise of God, spoken right after Adam and Eve had sinned, is commonly called “the first Gospel.” It revealed God’s eternal plan of salvation. It was a promise that, like a flower not yet seen on the plant from which it will grow, is nevertheless coming into bud. It would be fulfilled! The promise would one day flower and flourish. This was the hope of the people in the Old Testament. Finally, God fulfilled his promise and in his love for all people sent Jesus into the world to save us. Our gracious God took the sad story of man’s fall, and changed the outcome into good news for us. The devil’s horrifying deed was overcome by the power of God’s sweet promise. Now that’s a true story that fills our life with real joy!

Prayer: 

Lord God, thank you for your great love that moved you to promise and send your Son to rescue us from the power of Satan.  Fill our hearts with the joy of knowing Jesus as our Savior from sin and death.  Amen.

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Devotion - May 1, 2012 --Daily Devotion

Jesus said, “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. The hired hand is not the shepherd who owns the sheep. So when he sees the wolf coming, he abandons the sheep and runs away. Then the wolf attacks the flock and scatters it.”

John 10:11-12

Have you ever had a situation where you said, “This is too much; I’m out of here; they are not paying me enough to do this”?

Imagine you are hired for minimum wage to tend sheep.  You figure it shouldn’t be too difficult.  How hard is watching sheep?  But you fail to read the fine print of your job description: Must be willing to lay down your life for the sheep.

One evening while on duty, you are faced with a pack of hungry wolves.  Do you stay and protect the sheep, even if it means you might be injured or worse?  Or do you say, “I’m out of here”?  And you take off leaving the sheep defenseless.  Some shepherd you turn out to be!

In stark contrast, Jesus says, “I am the good shepherd.  The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.”

The sheep Jesus lays down his life for is you – a weak, wandering, defenseless sheep.  Many would question if you were worth it, even yourself.  But obviously you were to him.  Look at the cross where Jesus died for you.

The wolves that attacked and killed Jesus instead of you are sin, death and the devil. Jesus could have said, “I’m out of here,” when facing those wolves.  But he loved you and cared for you so much that he wouldn’t forsake you.  He was willing to save you at all costs, even it if meant his life.  And that’s what he did.

A lot of times when we say, “This is too much; I’m out of here; they are not paying me enough to do this,” it reflects our feelings about life.  It’s so easy to want to quit, to give up, to run away.  But knowing what you know about your Good Shepherd gives you a new resolve.  You live for the one who laid down his life for you and saved you from sin, death and the devil.

Prayer: 

Dear Jesus, thank you for saving my life. I couldn’t have a better Shepherd. Amen.

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Devotion - April 30, 2012 --Daily Devotion

Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them: “Rulers and elders of the people! If we are being called to account today for an act of kindness shown to a cripple and are asked how he was healed, then know this, you and all the people of Israel: It is by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified but whom God raised from the dead, that this man stands before you healed. He is “‘the stone you builders rejected, which has become the capstone.’” Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved.”

Acts 4:8-12

Christ is My Capstone!

The skill of laying a stone foundation is a rare find these days.  With all of our advancements in building materials and equipment, things like steel beams and poured concrete foundations with rebar ensure that the buildings we construct will stand the test of time.  However, in Jesus’ day, stonework was a true art and skill, one which was absolutely necessary so that buildings would last.

Builders needed a perfectly square cornerstone to start the building project so that in all three directions – right, left and up – the building would be square and come together.  In the same way, wherever there was an archway, there needed to be a keystone or capstone which held it all together.  How often don’t you see ancient ruins where the arch is still standing even though the walls have crumbled?

Whether you use the word cornerstone or capstone or keystone, they all work perfectly to describe Jesus.  He is the foundation of our faith.  When our faith and beliefs are in line with him, we know our faith is resting on solid ground.  Jesus is also the keystone of our faith. He holds his church together forever.  It will stand the test of time.
 
Peter was under attack for healing a crippled person.  They challenged how he was able to do that miracle.  In his reply, he points to Christ who was not only the source and power behind the miracle, but also the foundation of his faith and eternal salvation.   This joy led Peter to make the transition from a defense of Jesus to a law and gospel presentation. His hope was that God would lead them to repent and believe in Jesus as well!

With sharp law, he pointed out their sin.  They crucified Christ, but God raised him from the dead.  They rejected him, but now he is the foundation of faith.  Salvation is not found in works or rituals, but through faith in Jesus alone.  Repent and believe the good news.

This same message works today. Law and gospel are the tools God has given to us.  Every person needs to repent of their sin and unbelief.  God hears our plea, “Lord have mercy on me a sinner.”  Then God’s wonderful healing balm of the gospel assures us that we are forgiven for the sake of Jesus our Savior… and that forgiveness rest squarely and surely on the foundation of Christ Jesus crucified and risen.  In truth, there is no other name, no other person, no other way in which we can be saved. 

What a joy!  You know the way. You know the capstone.  You know that Christ is the cornerstone of your faith.  May God bless you as you share this truth which will indeed stand the test of time and eternity!

Prayer: 

(Christian Worship: A Lutheran Hymnal - 528:1):
Christ is our cornerstone; on him alone we build.
With his true saints alone the courts of heav’n are filled.
On his great love, our hopes we place of present grace and joys above.  Amen.

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Devotion - April 27, 2012 --Daily Devotion

Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.

1 Peter 3:15b

Hope's Testimony

Remember cramming (studying) for an exam? Trying to somehow embed your resistant memory with all those details written in the textbook or recorded in your class notes? You knew that if you didn't have a grasp on most of the material, you'd bring home the news of a less than desirable test score, or perhaps even a failing grade.

Peter isn't talking about a test when he says, "Always be prepared to give an answer." He's talking about an opportunity! A God-given one! The Lord brings into your presence, or opens a door to someone who doesn't know what is yours—hope in Jesus! When your unbelieving neighbors see your life for Christ, they may become curious. "What accounts for this obvious joy?" "Where does this generosity of patience and love come from?" "Why are you so filled with hope?" Ah! Opportunity!

This is a passage that addresses the subject of witnessing! Of evangelizing! Of sharing the Good News that has delivered a sure and certain hope to you, and is meant for everyone! And the apostle says, "Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have."

Are you prepared to do so? You may be more prepared than you think! You know what Jesus has done for you. You know why he died on the cross. You know the meaning of his resurrection. You know that eternal life is already yours. You know that he is coming again to judge everyone. You know that those who die in Christ are blessed. And that means you also know that those who die without Jesus have no hope.

"We believe," Paul wrote to the Corinthian Christians, "and therefore speak." Christian hope needs to find expression. The questions of our unbelieving friends need answering. The love of Christ compels us to share our hope. They must hear the Gospel!

Prayer: 

Lord, open my lips to share my hope in you. Amen.

Confidently Sharing Jesus with Friends is a resource to help you talk to people you know about Jesus.

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Devotion - April 26, 2012 --Daily Devotion

If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.

1 John 1:8-9

A while back there was a piece on a TV news magazine about a woman who appeared stable and well-adjusted in every way. She held a responsible job. She was nicely dressed. She was gracious and cordial in her demeanor. She held a terrible secret, however. The secret was that she was keeping hundreds of cats in her home. Video footage from the city health department was shocking. The interior was in ruins. Officials reported that the stench was indescribable.
 
Most shocking of all, though, was the woman’s sense of absolute denial. She had no grasp of the sickening thing she had produced within her house. In fact, during an interview she even described herself as “a clean freak.”
 
That woman’s self-deception is a lot like our attitude towards sin. You and I don’t mind admitting that we’re sinful in a generic kind of way (“Nobody’s perfect.” “We’ve all done things we’re not proud of,” – you know the routine). When it comes to confronting the real-life failures in our lives, however, you and I often plug our noses and ignore the terrible stench of our own sin.
 
But the answer is not self-deception. The answer is Jesus. Confess your sins – thoughts, words and actions that oppose God’s perfect will and make you unclean in his sight. Trust God’s faithful word that through faith in your Savior Jesus you are freely forgiven and completely clean before God.
 
And from now on, no more self-deception.

Prayer: 

O Lord, my God, I called to you for help, and you answered me.  I thank you for the love you have shown me in Jesus Christ, my Savior.  Through him you have rescued me from the guilt of my sin and given me the peace of forgiveness.  Help me fight against temptation, correct whatever wrongs I can, and serve you and those around me with love and good works.  In Jesus’ name, I pray.  Amen..

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Devotion - April 25, 2012 --Daily Devotion

We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure.

Hebrews 6:19

Hope's Steadfastness

We live in a time of rapid change.  From technology to transportation, from medical treatment to moral values, from energy development to educational institutions, from the ways we work to the ways we relax—things change!  It can be unsettling!  We want, we need, something that doesn't change.  Something we can rely on!  Something that will be there for us, always!

The inspired writer of Hebrews tells us that we have this.  It is the "hope" on which our soul is anchored.  That hope is ours in a Savior slain for sins, and risen for our rescue from eternal death.

This solid hope gives us comfort, when all around us the world is changing.  One of our hymns captures this truth:
 
In ev'ry high and stormy gale my anchor holds within the veil.
When ev'ry earthly prop gives way, He then is all my hope and stay.
On Christ, the solid rock, I stand; all other ground is sinking sand.
(Christian Worship: A Lutheran Hymnal, hymn 382, from verses 2 & 3)

Our hope is steadfast.  It is "firm and secure!"  This same writer of Hebrews tells us, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever” (Hebrews 13:8).  Yes!  The One, in whom our hope is anchored, is changeless.  Nothing can, or ever will, replace him.  Nothing can, or ever will, change what he has done to redeem us.  Nothing can, or ever will, alter his attitude of love toward you and me.  Our hope in Jesus is truly steadfast!

Prayer: 

Lord Jesus, I experience many changes in life, but in you I have hope that will never change.  I praise you for giving me a firm and secure anchor for my soul.  Amen.

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Devotion - April 24, 2012 --Daily Devotion

While the disciples were still talking about this, Jesus himself stood among them and said to them, “Peace be with you.” They were startled and frightened, thinking they saw a ghost. He said to them, “Why are you troubled, and why do doubts rise in your minds? Look at my hands and my feet. It is I myself! Touch me and see; a ghost does not have flesh and bones, as you see I have.” When he had said this, he showed them his hands and feet. And while they still did not believe it because of joy and amazement, he asked them, “Do you have anything here to eat?” They gave him a piece of broiled fish, and he took it and ate it in their presence. He said to them, “This is what I told you while I was still with you: Everything must be fulfilled that is written about me in the Law of Moses, the Prophets and the Psalms.” Then he opened their minds so they could understand the Scriptures. He told them, “This is what is written: The Christ will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day, and repentance and forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. You are witnesses of these things. I am going to send you what my Father has promised; but stay in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high.”

Luke 24:36-49

What bothers you?  What troubles you?  What scares you?  What has you on edge?

On the surface, your answer might be the economy, the election in November, Iran.  More personally, your answer might be your marriage, your family, your job.  But in the depth of your heart, isn’t your answer the guilt you carry, the doubts you have, the faith you lack?

You wonder, “Is Jesus for real?  Can I believe him?  Why am I so weak?  How do I move forward?”  These are the questions the disciples struggled with too.

But what does the Bible proclaim?  Christ crucified for sin.  Christ risen in victory.  Forgiveness won.  And it’s not too good to be true!  This good news comes from your living Savior.  He gives exactly what you need down deep.  Not peace on the surface of things, but peace for your soul.

Now you can move forward.

Prayer: 

Lord, console me with your peace. Amen.

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Devotion - April 23, 2012 --Daily Devotion