12For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. 13Nothing in all creation is hidden from God's sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account. Hebrews 4:12
Commentary: The word of God is not some dry, dead, passive words written on a page but it is the word spoken by the God of the universe. That means these words themselves are truth from God himself and therefore come with great power. God's word is described here as living, active and sharp. God's word is able to penetrate, dividing the soul and the spirit and God's word is able to judge the thoughts and intentions of he heart. Nothing is hidden from God's sight and we must give an account to him of our stewardship. Yet this awesome God loves us and desires to have a relationship with us! Amazing!
Prayer: Father in Jesus Name, I thank you for your living, active, sharp and powerful word. Help me Lord God to meditate regularly in your word and walk in it so that I will be changed by it.
In Jesus Name! Amen
Jesus the Great High Priest
Monday, November 30, 2009
Saturday, November 28, 2009
Fred's Devo # 70: Stay Focused on Jesus!
Key Verse: " 1Therefore, holy brothers, who share in the heavenly calling, fix your thoughts on Jesus, the apostle and high priest whom we confess." Hebrews 3:1
Comments: In this chapter, the writer of Hebrews exhorts us to fix our eyes upon Jesus. He is worthy of our praise above anything else that could grab our attention. God has a word for us in verses 7,8,10,12 and 13-14:
Don't Have a Hard Heart!
7So, as the Holy Spirit says:
"Today, if you hear his voice,
8do not harden your hearts
as you did in the rebellion,
during the time of testing in the desert,
Don't Have a Straying Heart!
10That is why I was angry with that generation,
and I said, 'Their hearts are always going astray,
and they have not known my ways."
Don't Have a Sinful- Unbelieving Heart!.
"12See to it, brothers, that none of you has a sinful, unbelieving heart that turns away from the living God.
Encourage Each Other: Sin is Deceitful!
13But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called Today, so that none of you may be hardened by sin's deceitfulness.
Hold on til the End!
14We have come to share in Christ if we hold firmly till the end the confidence we had at first.
Prayer: Lord, Forgive me for the times when I have strayed away from you or have hardened by heart against your word. Forgive for the times when I have allowed a sinful unbelieving heart that turned away from you. Instead Lord, give me a soft heart that is open to your instructions. Give me a heart that stays focused on you. embraces your word, believes it and obeys you. Help me also encourage my brothers and sister as well and warn them about the decietfulness of sin.
In Jesus Name! Amen.
Comments: In this chapter, the writer of Hebrews exhorts us to fix our eyes upon Jesus. He is worthy of our praise above anything else that could grab our attention. God has a word for us in verses 7,8,10,12 and 13-14:
Don't Have a Hard Heart!
7So, as the Holy Spirit says:
"Today, if you hear his voice,
8do not harden your hearts
as you did in the rebellion,
during the time of testing in the desert,
Don't Have a Straying Heart!
10That is why I was angry with that generation,
and I said, 'Their hearts are always going astray,
and they have not known my ways."
Don't Have a Sinful- Unbelieving Heart!.
"12See to it, brothers, that none of you has a sinful, unbelieving heart that turns away from the living God.
Encourage Each Other: Sin is Deceitful!
13But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called Today, so that none of you may be hardened by sin's deceitfulness.
Hold on til the End!
14We have come to share in Christ if we hold firmly till the end the confidence we had at first.
Prayer: Lord, Forgive me for the times when I have strayed away from you or have hardened by heart against your word. Forgive for the times when I have allowed a sinful unbelieving heart that turned away from you. Instead Lord, give me a soft heart that is open to your instructions. Give me a heart that stays focused on you. embraces your word, believes it and obeys you. Help me also encourage my brothers and sister as well and warn them about the decietfulness of sin.
In Jesus Name! Amen.
Friday, November 27, 2009
Fred's Devo # 69 " All of Our Blessings Come From You!"
Key verse: "Everything comes from you, and we have given you only what comes from your hand." I Chronicles 29:14b.
This is a part of a Prayer of Thanksgiving that David gave after God's people gave generously in preparation for the building of the temple.
Let's listen in on David's prayer beginning in verse 11:
11"Yours, O LORD, is the greatness and the power
and the glory and the majesty and the splendor,
for everything in heaven and earth is yours.
Yours, O LORD, is the kingdom;
you are exalted as head over all.
12 Wealth and honor come from you;
you are the ruler of all things.
In your hands are strength and power
to exalt and give strength to all.
13 Now, our God, we give you thanks,
and praise your glorious name.
14 "But who am I, and who are my people, that we should be able to give as generously as this? Everything comes from you, and we have given you only what comes from your hand. I Chronicles 29:11-14
Commentary: After giving this generous offering, David does not boast, but begins to give glory and honor to the Mighty, Awesome God that he serves. Then he acknowledges that the generous offering they just gave, came from Gods hand, so they really have no reason to boast. In fact, he is humbled by God's bountiful provision which allows them to give in this way.
Prayer: Lord I realize that everything I have came from your hand. Thank you for your awesome provision for me! Now Lord, help me to give even more generously than I have in the past and as I receive more, help me to give even more-understanding that it all came from your hand.
In Jesus Nmae! Amen!
This is a part of a Prayer of Thanksgiving that David gave after God's people gave generously in preparation for the building of the temple.
Let's listen in on David's prayer beginning in verse 11:
11"Yours, O LORD, is the greatness and the power
and the glory and the majesty and the splendor,
for everything in heaven and earth is yours.
Yours, O LORD, is the kingdom;
you are exalted as head over all.
12 Wealth and honor come from you;
you are the ruler of all things.
In your hands are strength and power
to exalt and give strength to all.
13 Now, our God, we give you thanks,
and praise your glorious name.
14 "But who am I, and who are my people, that we should be able to give as generously as this? Everything comes from you, and we have given you only what comes from your hand. I Chronicles 29:11-14
Commentary: After giving this generous offering, David does not boast, but begins to give glory and honor to the Mighty, Awesome God that he serves. Then he acknowledges that the generous offering they just gave, came from Gods hand, so they really have no reason to boast. In fact, he is humbled by God's bountiful provision which allows them to give in this way.
Prayer: Lord I realize that everything I have came from your hand. Thank you for your awesome provision for me! Now Lord, help me to give even more generously than I have in the past and as I receive more, help me to give even more-understanding that it all came from your hand.
In Jesus Nmae! Amen!
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Fred's Devo # 68: It is Good to Give Thanks!
For Today's devotional, we will share scriptures on Thanksgiving
God Instructs Us to Give Thanks:
Give thanks to the LORD; call upon his name; make known his deeds among the peoples!Sing to him, sing praises to him; tell of all his wondrous works! —Psalm 105:1-2
Make Your Requests to God with a Thankful Attitude:
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God, and the peace of God which surpasses all understanding will keep your heart and your mind in Christ Jesus.—Philippians 4:6
Give Thanks with Your Whole Heart
I will give thanks to the LORD with my whole heart;I will recount all of your wonderful deeds.—Psalm 9:1
Giving Thanks is a Good Thing!
It is good to give thanks to the LORD, to sing praises to your name, O Most High;
—Psalm 92:1
Give Thanks to His Holy Name!
Rejoice in the LORD, O you righteous, and give thanks to his holy name!
—Psalm 97:12 http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif
Come Into God's presence Thanking God!
Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise! Give thanks to him; bless his name! —Psalm 100:4
Let's end with this Psalm of Praise found in Psalm 100 (KJV)
Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all ye lands.
2Serve the LORD with gladness: come before his presence with singing.
3Know ye that the LORD he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.
4Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name.
5For the LORD is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations.
Have a Blessed Thanksgiving Holiday!
God Instructs Us to Give Thanks:
Give thanks to the LORD; call upon his name; make known his deeds among the peoples!Sing to him, sing praises to him; tell of all his wondrous works! —Psalm 105:1-2
Make Your Requests to God with a Thankful Attitude:
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God, and the peace of God which surpasses all understanding will keep your heart and your mind in Christ Jesus.—Philippians 4:6
Give Thanks with Your Whole Heart
I will give thanks to the LORD with my whole heart;I will recount all of your wonderful deeds.—Psalm 9:1
Giving Thanks is a Good Thing!
It is good to give thanks to the LORD, to sing praises to your name, O Most High;
—Psalm 92:1
Give Thanks to His Holy Name!
Rejoice in the LORD, O you righteous, and give thanks to his holy name!
—Psalm 97:12 http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif
Come Into God's presence Thanking God!
Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise! Give thanks to him; bless his name! —Psalm 100:4
Let's end with this Psalm of Praise found in Psalm 100 (KJV)
Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all ye lands.
2Serve the LORD with gladness: come before his presence with singing.
3Know ye that the LORD he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.
4Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name.
5For the LORD is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations.
Have a Blessed Thanksgiving Holiday!
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Fred's Devo # 67 Jesus Set Us Free From The Fear of Dying!!!
Key Verse: "For only as a human being could he (Jesus) die, and only by dying could he break the power of the devil, who had the power of death. 15 Only in this way could he set free all who have lived their lives as slaves to the fear of dying." Hebrews 14:b-15, NLT
Amazing and Wonderful! Jesus sacrifice and death for us broke the power of the devil over our lives and took away from us the fear of dying! HALLELUJAH!
" 16 We also know that the Son did not come to help angels; he came to help the descendants of Abraham. 17 Therefore, it was necessary for him to be made in every respect like us, his brothers and sisters,[h] so that he could be our merciful and faithful High Priest before God. Then he could offer a sacrifice that would take away the sins of the people. 18 Since he himself has gone through suffering and testing, he is able to help us when we are being tested."
Commentary: As we see in the verses above, Jesus died for us, not angels! That's why he came as a man! Since he went through the same testing and suffering that we went through as humans, he is able to help us when we are tested!
Prayer: Jesus, thank you that though you were God, you came to earth as a man to live ,suffer and die as a sacrifice for our sins. I thank you that you understand our human temptations and trials because you yourself went through them. Lord give me the power and the strength to overcome my sins and resist the temptations that come my way. I thank you Lord that when I do sin, that you are faithful and just to forgive me of my sins and to cleanse me of all unrighteousness. (I Johnn 1:9)
In Jesus Name! Amen!
Amazing and Wonderful! Jesus sacrifice and death for us broke the power of the devil over our lives and took away from us the fear of dying! HALLELUJAH!
" 16 We also know that the Son did not come to help angels; he came to help the descendants of Abraham. 17 Therefore, it was necessary for him to be made in every respect like us, his brothers and sisters,[h] so that he could be our merciful and faithful High Priest before God. Then he could offer a sacrifice that would take away the sins of the people. 18 Since he himself has gone through suffering and testing, he is able to help us when we are being tested."
Commentary: As we see in the verses above, Jesus died for us, not angels! That's why he came as a man! Since he went through the same testing and suffering that we went through as humans, he is able to help us when we are tested!
Prayer: Jesus, thank you that though you were God, you came to earth as a man to live ,suffer and die as a sacrifice for our sins. I thank you that you understand our human temptations and trials because you yourself went through them. Lord give me the power and the strength to overcome my sins and resist the temptations that come my way. I thank you Lord that when I do sin, that you are faithful and just to forgive me of my sins and to cleanse me of all unrighteousness. (I Johnn 1:9)
In Jesus Name! Amen!
Monday, November 23, 2009
Fred's Devo # 66 " Jesus, Our Savior and Our Brother! Amazing!
Key Verse: So now Jesus and the ones he makes holy have the same Father. That is why Jesus is not ashamed to call them his brothers and sisters. Hebrews 2:11
It is amazing that Jesus our Saviour and Creator, also calls himself our Brother!
The writer is marveling at God's amazing attention and care for us: He says in verse 6"-9: “What are mere mortals that you should think about them,
or a son of man[a] that you should care for him?
7 Yet you made them only a little lower than the angels
and crowned them with glory and honor.[b]
8 You gave them authority over all things.”[c]
Futhermore, in verses 9 - 10 the writer says: "...Jesus, who was given a position “a little lower than the angels”; and because he suffered death for us, he is now “crowned with glory and honor.” Yes, by God’s grace, Jesus tasted death for everyone. 10 God, for whom and through whom everything was made, chose to bring many children into glory. And it was only right that he should make Jesus, through his suffering, a perfect leader, fit to bring them into their salvation.
Yet this great Jesus calls us His brother in verse 11: "So now Jesus and the ones he makes holy have the same Father. That is why Jesus is not ashamed to call them his brothers and sisters.[d] 12 For he said to God, “I will proclaim your name to my brothers and sisters. I will praise you among your assembled people.”[e]
AMAZING LOVE!
In closing, let's meditate on the words of this Hymn:
And can it be that I should gain
An interest in the Savior’s blood?
Died He for me, who caused His pain—
For me, who Him to death pursued?
Amazing love! How can it be,
That Thou, my God, shouldst die for me?
Amazing love! How can it be,
That Thou, my God, shouldst die for me?
In Jesus Name! Amen!
"And Can It Be That I Should Gain" words by Charles Wesley
http://www.cyberhymnal.org/htm/a/c/acanitbe.htm
It is amazing that Jesus our Saviour and Creator, also calls himself our Brother!
The writer is marveling at God's amazing attention and care for us: He says in verse 6"-9: “What are mere mortals that you should think about them,
or a son of man[a] that you should care for him?
7 Yet you made them only a little lower than the angels
and crowned them with glory and honor.[b]
8 You gave them authority over all things.”[c]
Futhermore, in verses 9 - 10 the writer says: "...Jesus, who was given a position “a little lower than the angels”; and because he suffered death for us, he is now “crowned with glory and honor.” Yes, by God’s grace, Jesus tasted death for everyone. 10 God, for whom and through whom everything was made, chose to bring many children into glory. And it was only right that he should make Jesus, through his suffering, a perfect leader, fit to bring them into their salvation.
Yet this great Jesus calls us His brother in verse 11: "So now Jesus and the ones he makes holy have the same Father. That is why Jesus is not ashamed to call them his brothers and sisters.[d] 12 For he said to God, “I will proclaim your name to my brothers and sisters. I will praise you among your assembled people.”[e]
AMAZING LOVE!
In closing, let's meditate on the words of this Hymn:
And can it be that I should gain
An interest in the Savior’s blood?
Died He for me, who caused His pain—
For me, who Him to death pursued?
Amazing love! How can it be,
That Thou, my God, shouldst die for me?
Amazing love! How can it be,
That Thou, my God, shouldst die for me?
In Jesus Name! Amen!
"And Can It Be That I Should Gain" words by Charles Wesley
http://www.cyberhymnal.org/htm/a/c/acanitbe.htm
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Fred's Devo # 65: Do Not Drift Away From the Glorious Gospel!
"1 So we must listen very carefully to the truth we have heard, or we may drift away from it. 2 For the message God delivered through angels has always stood firm, and every violation of the law and every act of disobedience was punished. 3 So what makes us think we can escape if we ignore this great salvation that was first announced by the Lord Jesus himself and then delivered to us by those who heard him speak? 4 And God confirmed the message by giving signs and wonders and various miracles and gifts of the Holy Spirit whenever he chose."
In today's scripture, Paul warns Hebrew believers not to stray away from the Gospel of Jesus Christ that they have embraced! He makes the point that in the Old testament days, God set up the law and punished those who disobeyed it. It is also true that he rewarded those who followed it. (see Deutoronomy 28)
By the same token, if we reject or ignore the Gospel message, we have just rejected our escape route from eternal punishment in Hell! Jesus said, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me." (John 14:6) Paul says in Romans 3:23 "For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard. 24 Yet God, with undeserved kindness, declares that we are righteous. He did this through Christ Jesus when he freed us from the penalty for our sins. 25 For God presented Jesus as the sacrifice for sin. People are made right with God when they believe that Jesus sacrificed his life, shedding his blood.
Prayer: Lord, in a world where people scoff at the message of the Gospel, let me never, ever reject the truth of the Glorious Gospel of Jesus Christ. It is not only my escape route from Hell, but it also reconnects me with my creator and leads me to my true identity and purpose in Christ. Help me to live the life of a Christian and freely tell others about this Glorious News! In Jesus Name! Amen
In today's scripture, Paul warns Hebrew believers not to stray away from the Gospel of Jesus Christ that they have embraced! He makes the point that in the Old testament days, God set up the law and punished those who disobeyed it. It is also true that he rewarded those who followed it. (see Deutoronomy 28)
By the same token, if we reject or ignore the Gospel message, we have just rejected our escape route from eternal punishment in Hell! Jesus said, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me." (John 14:6) Paul says in Romans 3:23 "For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard. 24 Yet God, with undeserved kindness, declares that we are righteous. He did this through Christ Jesus when he freed us from the penalty for our sins. 25 For God presented Jesus as the sacrifice for sin. People are made right with God when they believe that Jesus sacrificed his life, shedding his blood.
Prayer: Lord, in a world where people scoff at the message of the Gospel, let me never, ever reject the truth of the Glorious Gospel of Jesus Christ. It is not only my escape route from Hell, but it also reconnects me with my creator and leads me to my true identity and purpose in Christ. Help me to live the life of a Christian and freely tell others about this Glorious News! In Jesus Name! Amen
Saturday, November 21, 2009
Fred's Devo # 64 :What to do When Trouble Comes!
Nobody likes trouble, problems difficulties. I know I don't; but they come anyway. The question is, how do we handle trouble when it comes. Do we put our heads in the sand until it passes? Do we put our lives on hold? Or do we figure a way to face our trials and to gain whatever lessons or benefits they may hold for us? I know sounds sort of crazy but stick with me.
Here's what the bible says about trouble or trials or difficulties.
"2Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. 4Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. 5If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault...12Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.
Are you kidding me? "Consider it pure joy when you face trials" That's not how most of us think. The first think I think is "Oh No!" Yet the writer James tells us to have joy. If that's the case, there must be some benefits to trials.
How to respond to trials:
First trials are an opportunity to stop,evaluate ourselves and ask God for wisdom. Are we living right? Have we strayed away from God? Have we done anything to create the mess we are in? Is God trying to speak to us? Use trouble as an opportunity to God in prayer, to renew your relationship with him and to ask him for wisdom and guidance.
Secondly, If the trial is coming because we have taken a righteous and right stand for Jesus - rejoice! Jesus tells us in Matthew 5:12: "Blessed are you when people insult you and persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me. 12 “Rejoice and be glad, for your reward in heaven is great"
Thirdly, trials and tests produce perseverance and character that cannot come any other way. An athlete only gets better when he or she is tested and tried in practice and competition.
Prayer: Lord, no one likes trouble but when it comes, help us to face it with prayer-spending time with you for renewal, evaluation and seeking wisdom. And Lord, give me the strength and the grace to make it through my battle with my faith intact. Lord if I am in trouble due to my own sin, show me what it is so I can confess and repent.
If I am facing trials because of my faith, I rejoice and glorify your name even more! Thank you for this privilege of being a witness for you!
Regardless, helps us to face trials with humility, trust and thanksgiving, knowing that all thinks work together for good, for those who love God. Romans 8:28
In Jesus Name, Amen
Here's what the bible says about trouble or trials or difficulties.
"2Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. 4Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. 5If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault...12Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.
Are you kidding me? "Consider it pure joy when you face trials" That's not how most of us think. The first think I think is "Oh No!" Yet the writer James tells us to have joy. If that's the case, there must be some benefits to trials.
How to respond to trials:
First trials are an opportunity to stop,evaluate ourselves and ask God for wisdom. Are we living right? Have we strayed away from God? Have we done anything to create the mess we are in? Is God trying to speak to us? Use trouble as an opportunity to God in prayer, to renew your relationship with him and to ask him for wisdom and guidance.
Secondly, If the trial is coming because we have taken a righteous and right stand for Jesus - rejoice! Jesus tells us in Matthew 5:12: "Blessed are you when people insult you and persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me. 12 “Rejoice and be glad, for your reward in heaven is great"
Thirdly, trials and tests produce perseverance and character that cannot come any other way. An athlete only gets better when he or she is tested and tried in practice and competition.
Prayer: Lord, no one likes trouble but when it comes, help us to face it with prayer-spending time with you for renewal, evaluation and seeking wisdom. And Lord, give me the strength and the grace to make it through my battle with my faith intact. Lord if I am in trouble due to my own sin, show me what it is so I can confess and repent.
If I am facing trials because of my faith, I rejoice and glorify your name even more! Thank you for this privilege of being a witness for you!
Regardless, helps us to face trials with humility, trust and thanksgiving, knowing that all thinks work together for good, for those who love God. Romans 8:28
In Jesus Name, Amen
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Fred's Devo # 63: Putting on the Whole Armor of God
Today, we will be blessed by a Guest "devotionalist" Mary Ann Voelkel. She will lead us in an Armor of God prayer based on Ephesians 6:10-18. Read through Ephesians 6:10-18 below.
10Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. 12For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 13Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. 14Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, 15and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. 16In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. 18And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints."
Pray through the prayer. Pray it several times slowly and thoughtfully to get the full effect.
--------------------
Armor of God Prayer
By Mary Anne Voelkel, former InterVarsity Prayer Leader
Holy, loving, merciful God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit…
I greet you this morning as my Heavenly Father, my Lord and Savior, and my great High Priest. I realize that first of all I need to give you myself and this new day. I ask you to fill me afresh with your Holy Spirit, and to clothe me with your armor, for my own is of no use against the enemy or to face the challenges I will encounter all day long.
I begin by putting on the Belt of Truth. You are the Truth and your Word is Truth. I ask you to nurture my soul and to teach me the Truth as I study Your Word. By your grace I will believe, speak, and live in accordance with the Truth. I embrace the Truth that you love me unconditionally, that I am in Christ and that he lives in me. I confess the Truth, that without you I can do nothing, but that “I can do everything through him who gives me strength” (Phil 4:13).
I ask your forgiveness for my sin and self-centeredness. Please forgive me for________________ and cleanse me in your precious blood. I ask you to crucify my old nature and be my righteousness. Would you live your holy life in me, as I surrender myself to you? Let your righteousness be like a Breastplate to protect my vital organs, especially my heart, emotions and soul. Be the center of my life and the source of all I am and do. By your grace I will obey you and seek to live in fellowship and dependence on you.
Once again I put on the Shoes of the Gospel of Peace. I will prepare myself to share the good news with others by reading your Word, praying for my non-Christian friends, and being ready to given an account for the Hope that is in me. Please bring me into situations and relationships where I can express your love and share the Gospel with others in the Power of the Holy Spirit Give me your heart of compassion for those in need. Enable me to help them with a willing and loving servant heart.
I put on the Helmet of your Salvation. Save me this day from the world, my flesh, and the Devil. I ask you to give me the mind of Christ and to think your thoughts in me.
I also take up the Shield of Faith by which I can extinguish all of the flaming arrows of the Evil One. By faith I ask you to bind and break any curses sent against me or my family and to place them under the feet of Jesus. I ask you to cancel all of the Enemy’s evil assignments, to confuse his strategies, and to extinguish each of the fiery arrows he chooses to send our way. I renounce and rebuke especially the arrows of____________.
I ask you to fill me and strengthen me with your Holy Spirit as I take up His Sword, those particular Words You give me to: guide my own life, use in intercession, share with others, or utter against the Enemy, in whatever ways you so lead me to do. Lead me into each aspect of my devotional time this morning and guide me throughout this day. Please reveal yourself to me so that I may know you better and love you more.
Over all this armor, I ask you to wrap me in your mantle of love. Fill my heart with love for yourself: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Fill my heart, as well with love for my family, friends, and those I minister to.
Finally, I come to you to take your yoke. May I abide in you even as you abide in me. May I worship you, serve you and love you with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength. May I increasingly love my neighbors as myself. I thank you that by Your Holy Presence in my life and your Person clothing me, I am effectively armed for whatever comes my way this day. Hallelujah! Amen!
10Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. 12For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 13Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. 14Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, 15and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. 16In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. 18And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints."
Pray through the prayer. Pray it several times slowly and thoughtfully to get the full effect.
--------------------
Armor of God Prayer
By Mary Anne Voelkel, former InterVarsity Prayer Leader
Holy, loving, merciful God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit…
I greet you this morning as my Heavenly Father, my Lord and Savior, and my great High Priest. I realize that first of all I need to give you myself and this new day. I ask you to fill me afresh with your Holy Spirit, and to clothe me with your armor, for my own is of no use against the enemy or to face the challenges I will encounter all day long.
I begin by putting on the Belt of Truth. You are the Truth and your Word is Truth. I ask you to nurture my soul and to teach me the Truth as I study Your Word. By your grace I will believe, speak, and live in accordance with the Truth. I embrace the Truth that you love me unconditionally, that I am in Christ and that he lives in me. I confess the Truth, that without you I can do nothing, but that “I can do everything through him who gives me strength” (Phil 4:13).
I ask your forgiveness for my sin and self-centeredness. Please forgive me for________________ and cleanse me in your precious blood. I ask you to crucify my old nature and be my righteousness. Would you live your holy life in me, as I surrender myself to you? Let your righteousness be like a Breastplate to protect my vital organs, especially my heart, emotions and soul. Be the center of my life and the source of all I am and do. By your grace I will obey you and seek to live in fellowship and dependence on you.
Once again I put on the Shoes of the Gospel of Peace. I will prepare myself to share the good news with others by reading your Word, praying for my non-Christian friends, and being ready to given an account for the Hope that is in me. Please bring me into situations and relationships where I can express your love and share the Gospel with others in the Power of the Holy Spirit Give me your heart of compassion for those in need. Enable me to help them with a willing and loving servant heart.
I put on the Helmet of your Salvation. Save me this day from the world, my flesh, and the Devil. I ask you to give me the mind of Christ and to think your thoughts in me.
I also take up the Shield of Faith by which I can extinguish all of the flaming arrows of the Evil One. By faith I ask you to bind and break any curses sent against me or my family and to place them under the feet of Jesus. I ask you to cancel all of the Enemy’s evil assignments, to confuse his strategies, and to extinguish each of the fiery arrows he chooses to send our way. I renounce and rebuke especially the arrows of____________.
I ask you to fill me and strengthen me with your Holy Spirit as I take up His Sword, those particular Words You give me to: guide my own life, use in intercession, share with others, or utter against the Enemy, in whatever ways you so lead me to do. Lead me into each aspect of my devotional time this morning and guide me throughout this day. Please reveal yourself to me so that I may know you better and love you more.
Over all this armor, I ask you to wrap me in your mantle of love. Fill my heart with love for yourself: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Fill my heart, as well with love for my family, friends, and those I minister to.
Finally, I come to you to take your yoke. May I abide in you even as you abide in me. May I worship you, serve you and love you with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength. May I increasingly love my neighbors as myself. I thank you that by Your Holy Presence in my life and your Person clothing me, I am effectively armed for whatever comes my way this day. Hallelujah! Amen!
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Fred's Devo # 62 Jesus Is Greater Than the Angels!
On yesterday, we read in Hebrews 1:1-3: that God "has spoken to us through his Son. and that " God promised everything to Jesus and that Jesus:
Created the universe.
Radiates God’s own glory
Expresses the very character of God,
Sustains everything by the mighty power of his command.
Jesus also cleansed us from our sins!
In Hebrews 1:4-14 below, we learn that Jesus is greater than the angels:
"4This shows that the Son is far greater than the angels, just as the name God gave him is greater than their names.
5 For God never said to any angel what he said to Jesus:
“You are my Son. Today I have become your Father.
God also said, “I will be his Father,
and he will be my Son.”
6 And when he brought his firstborn Son into the world, God said,
“Let all of God’s angels worship him.”
7 Regarding the angels, he says,
“He sends his angels like the winds,
his servants like flames of fire.”
8 But to the Son he says,
“Your throne, O God, endures forever and ever.
You rule with a scepter of justice.
9 You love justice and hate evil.
Therefore, O God, your God has anointed you,
pouring out the oil of joy on you more than on anyone else.”
10 He also says to the Son,
“In the beginning, Lord, you laid the foundation of the earth
and made the heavens with your hands.
11 They will perish, but you remain forever.
They will wear out like old clothing.
12 You will fold them up like a cloak
and discard them like old clothing.
But you are always the same;
you will live forever.”
13 And God never said to any of the angels,
“Sit in the place of honor at my right hand
until I humble your enemies,
making them a footstool under your feet.”
14 Therefore, angels are only servants—spirits sent to care for people who will inherit salvation. (Hebrews 1:4-14,NLT)
Lord, I thank you for sending the angels to care four your people. Thank you even more for sending Jesus who is much greater than the angels because he laid the foundation of the earth and and His throne endures forever!
Because of Jesus, I have salvation! Thank you Jesus! In Your Holy Name! Amen.
Created the universe.
Radiates God’s own glory
Expresses the very character of God,
Sustains everything by the mighty power of his command.
Jesus also cleansed us from our sins!
In Hebrews 1:4-14 below, we learn that Jesus is greater than the angels:
"4This shows that the Son is far greater than the angels, just as the name God gave him is greater than their names.
5 For God never said to any angel what he said to Jesus:
“You are my Son. Today I have become your Father.
God also said, “I will be his Father,
and he will be my Son.”
6 And when he brought his firstborn Son into the world, God said,
“Let all of God’s angels worship him.”
7 Regarding the angels, he says,
“He sends his angels like the winds,
his servants like flames of fire.”
8 But to the Son he says,
“Your throne, O God, endures forever and ever.
You rule with a scepter of justice.
9 You love justice and hate evil.
Therefore, O God, your God has anointed you,
pouring out the oil of joy on you more than on anyone else.”
10 He also says to the Son,
“In the beginning, Lord, you laid the foundation of the earth
and made the heavens with your hands.
11 They will perish, but you remain forever.
They will wear out like old clothing.
12 You will fold them up like a cloak
and discard them like old clothing.
But you are always the same;
you will live forever.”
13 And God never said to any of the angels,
“Sit in the place of honor at my right hand
until I humble your enemies,
making them a footstool under your feet.”
14 Therefore, angels are only servants—spirits sent to care for people who will inherit salvation. (Hebrews 1:4-14,NLT)
Lord, I thank you for sending the angels to care four your people. Thank you even more for sending Jesus who is much greater than the angels because he laid the foundation of the earth and and His throne endures forever!
Because of Jesus, I have salvation! Thank you Jesus! In Your Holy Name! Amen.
Monday, November 16, 2009
Fred's Devo # 61: Jesus: Sustainer of the Universe!
"Long ago God spoke many times and in many ways to our ancestors through the prophets. [2] But now in these final days, he has spoken to us through his Son. God promised everything to the Son as an inheritance, and through the Son he made the universe and everything in it. [3] The Son reflects God's own glory, and everything about him represents God exactly. He sustains the universe by the mighty power of his command. After he died to cleanse us from the stain of sin, he sat down in the place of honor at the right hand of the majestic God of heaven." Hebrews 1:1-3, NLT
Commentary: In the Old Testament days, God spoke to man through his prophets. In the New Testament days, God spoke thorough his Son, Jesus.
This scripture helps me to see the exalted position that Jesus has!
God promised everything to him!
He reflects the Glory of God!
Everything About Him represents God exactly!
He sustains the universe by the power of his command!
He died to cleanse us from sin!
He now sits at the right hand of God!
What a mighty Jesus we serve!
Prayer: Lord Jesus, I worship you as King and ruler of the universe and ruler over my life. Help me to live a daily life of worship and praise, always giving honor to your Holy Name! In Jesus Mighty Name! Amen!
Commentary: In the Old Testament days, God spoke to man through his prophets. In the New Testament days, God spoke thorough his Son, Jesus.
This scripture helps me to see the exalted position that Jesus has!
God promised everything to him!
He reflects the Glory of God!
Everything About Him represents God exactly!
He sustains the universe by the power of his command!
He died to cleanse us from sin!
He now sits at the right hand of God!
What a mighty Jesus we serve!
Prayer: Lord Jesus, I worship you as King and ruler of the universe and ruler over my life. Help me to live a daily life of worship and praise, always giving honor to your Holy Name! In Jesus Mighty Name! Amen!
Saturday, November 14, 2009
Fred's Devo # 60 "Lord, Thank you for the Gift of Salvation"
25 Now to him who is able to strengthen you according to my gospel and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery that was kept secret for long ages, 26 but has now been disclosed and through the prophetic writings has been made known to all nations, according to the command of the eternal God, to bring about the obedience of faith— 27to the only wise God be glory forevermore through Jesus Christ! Amen.
The Apostle the Paul's benediction to Romans, he reminds the Gentiles of Rome of the glorious privilege they have of having heard the Gospel or Good News of Jesus Christ! He shares that in times past, the Gospel was hidden from Gentiles (non Jews) but was later disclosed through the writings of the prophets -by God's command. Now the Gospel of Jesus Christ is made know to everyone in the world! HALLELUJAH!
16"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. 17For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. 18Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because he has not believed in the name of God's one and only Son.
Prayer: Lord, I am so thankful that I live at a time when Christ is known and the Gospel is preached. Lord, thank you for saving my soul! Thank you for drawing me to yourself by your holy spirit when I was just a teenager! Thank you for walking with me all the years and never allowing me to slip from your hands. Help me now to boldly tell others about the Good News of Jesus Christ! Your plan to save the world from eternal condemnation and punishment.
In Jesus Name, Amen!
The Apostle the Paul's benediction to Romans, he reminds the Gentiles of Rome of the glorious privilege they have of having heard the Gospel or Good News of Jesus Christ! He shares that in times past, the Gospel was hidden from Gentiles (non Jews) but was later disclosed through the writings of the prophets -by God's command. Now the Gospel of Jesus Christ is made know to everyone in the world! HALLELUJAH!
16"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. 17For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. 18Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because he has not believed in the name of God's one and only Son.
Prayer: Lord, I am so thankful that I live at a time when Christ is known and the Gospel is preached. Lord, thank you for saving my soul! Thank you for drawing me to yourself by your holy spirit when I was just a teenager! Thank you for walking with me all the years and never allowing me to slip from your hands. Help me now to boldly tell others about the Good News of Jesus Christ! Your plan to save the world from eternal condemnation and punishment.
In Jesus Name, Amen!
Friday, November 13, 2009
Fred's Dev # 59: "God is Working On Us: Now Work with Him!"
The scripture makes it plain that God has a purpose for each of us and is working on us! Meditate on these 5 verses:
God made us:
5 “I knew you before I formed you in your mother’s womb.
Before you were born I set you apart Jeremiah 1:5
God works in us and God is building us. For we are God's fellow workers; you are God's field, God's building. I Corinthians 4:9
God not only works in us but gives us power to please him. For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him. Phillipians 2:13 NLT
We are God's Masterpiece: "For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago." Ephesians 2:10 NLT
God is the Potter;We are the Clay. He is in charge!
8But now, O LORD, thou art our father; we are the clay, and thou our potter; and we all are the work of thy hand.
Since God made us and is working in us and with us and building us and empowering us, then it behooves each of us to yield ourselves to God for him to do his complete work in us. Why are you resisting God's work in you? Submit to him? "Be still and let him do His thing in your life! He is a loving Father! He is not out to hurt you or short change you. He only has what is good for you. He says in Proverbs, "trust in the Lord with all thine heart, lean not unto your own understanding, in all they ways acknowledge him and he will direct your paths. Proverbs 3:5-6
Finally, he says in Jer 29:11: "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." NIV
Father forgive me for the times that I have resisted the work that you have wanted to do in my life. Now according to Phillipians 2:13, give me power to please you.
In Jesus Name Amen!
God made us:
5 “I knew you before I formed you in your mother’s womb.
Before you were born I set you apart Jeremiah 1:5
God works in us and God is building us. For we are God's fellow workers; you are God's field, God's building. I Corinthians 4:9
God not only works in us but gives us power to please him. For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him. Phillipians 2:13 NLT
We are God's Masterpiece: "For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago." Ephesians 2:10 NLT
God is the Potter;We are the Clay. He is in charge!
8But now, O LORD, thou art our father; we are the clay, and thou our potter; and we all are the work of thy hand.
Since God made us and is working in us and with us and building us and empowering us, then it behooves each of us to yield ourselves to God for him to do his complete work in us. Why are you resisting God's work in you? Submit to him? "Be still and let him do His thing in your life! He is a loving Father! He is not out to hurt you or short change you. He only has what is good for you. He says in Proverbs, "trust in the Lord with all thine heart, lean not unto your own understanding, in all they ways acknowledge him and he will direct your paths. Proverbs 3:5-6
Finally, he says in Jer 29:11: "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." NIV
Father forgive me for the times that I have resisted the work that you have wanted to do in my life. Now according to Phillipians 2:13, give me power to please you.
In Jesus Name Amen!
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Fred's Dev # 58 Fragile Existence: God is Good Even if Circumstances are Not!
Today's Guest Devotional comes from Radio Bible Class at
http://www.rbc.org/devotionals/our-daily-bread/2009/11/12/devotion.aspx
Enjoy!
November 12, 2009
Fragile Existence
READ: Job 1:8-22
We should not trust in ourselves but in God. —2 Corinthians 1:9
The geological features at Yellowstone National Park fascinate me. But when I walk among the geysers, I’m aware of how close I am to danger. I am walking atop one of the largest, most active volcanoes in the world.
When I read the book of Job, I feel as if I’m walking through Yellowstone on a day when the volcano erupts, exploding the earth’s fragile crust and bringing disaster.
Like tourists at Yellowstone, Job was enjoying life. He was unaware that only a hedge separated him from disaster (Job 1:9-10). When God removed that hedge and allowed Satan to test Job, his life exploded (vv.13-19).
Many believers live in circumstances where it seems as if God, for some reason, has removed His hedge of protection. Others, also for reasons unknown, live in relative calm, seemingly unaware of their fragile existence. Like Job’s friends, they assume that nothing bad will happen unless they do something to deserve it.
As we learn from Job, however, God sometimes allows bad things to happen to good people. Although disaster can strike at any moment, nothing has the power to destroy those who trust Christ (2 Cor. 4:9). No disaster can separate us from God’s love. — Julie Ackerman Link
Though darker, rougher, grows the way
And cares press harder day by day,
With patience in His love I’ll rest,
And whisper that He knoweth best. —Pentecost
God’s love still stands when all else has fallen.
http://www.rbc.org/devotionals/our-daily-bread/2009/11/12/devotion.aspx
Enjoy!
November 12, 2009
Fragile Existence
READ: Job 1:8-22
We should not trust in ourselves but in God. —2 Corinthians 1:9
The geological features at Yellowstone National Park fascinate me. But when I walk among the geysers, I’m aware of how close I am to danger. I am walking atop one of the largest, most active volcanoes in the world.
When I read the book of Job, I feel as if I’m walking through Yellowstone on a day when the volcano erupts, exploding the earth’s fragile crust and bringing disaster.
Like tourists at Yellowstone, Job was enjoying life. He was unaware that only a hedge separated him from disaster (Job 1:9-10). When God removed that hedge and allowed Satan to test Job, his life exploded (vv.13-19).
Many believers live in circumstances where it seems as if God, for some reason, has removed His hedge of protection. Others, also for reasons unknown, live in relative calm, seemingly unaware of their fragile existence. Like Job’s friends, they assume that nothing bad will happen unless they do something to deserve it.
As we learn from Job, however, God sometimes allows bad things to happen to good people. Although disaster can strike at any moment, nothing has the power to destroy those who trust Christ (2 Cor. 4:9). No disaster can separate us from God’s love. — Julie Ackerman Link
Though darker, rougher, grows the way
And cares press harder day by day,
With patience in His love I’ll rest,
And whisper that He knoweth best. —Pentecost
God’s love still stands when all else has fallen.
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Fred's Devo #57 "What is the Condition of the Soil of Your Heart?"
Last night at the CFO-InterVarsity bible study, brother Dante did a wonderful job of leading a bible study on the Parable of the Sower, based on Mark 4. as well as I Cor 3.
Thanks for the good word brother Dante!
I wanted to use these scriptures as the basis of today's Devotional.
"Some people are like seed along the path, where the word is sown. As soon as they hear it, Satan comes and takes away the word that was sown in them. 16Others, like seed sown on rocky places, hear the word and at once receive it with joy. 17But since they have no root, they last only a short time. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, they quickly fall away. 18Still others, like seed sown among thorns, hear the word; 19but the worries of this life, the deceitfulness of wealth and the desires for other things come in and choke the word, making it unfruitful. 20Others, like seed sown on good soil, hear the word, accept it, and produce a crop—thirty, sixty or even a hundred times what was sown." Mark 4:15-19
Commentary: Here, Jesus explains the parable of the sower where a farmer sows seeds on various types of soil. The soil is a parable for the condition of our hearts. The seeds represents the word of God. Some seeds fall on hard ground or hard hearts where the word is immediately scooped and take no root. Other seeds falls in the weeds, starts to sprout but is choked out by the cares of this world. Other seeds fall on stony ground but can't take root and dies out. Of course the best place to sow seed is good soil. Here it not only takes root but produces good fruit.
Prayer: Lotd help me to keep the soil of my heart fertile, tilled watered and ready to receive your word. Gaurd me from developing a stony heart where the word takes no root, a wayside heart where the word is snatched away or a thorny heart where the cares of this world choke the word out. To your glory Lord. In Jesus Name Amen!
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
56 "Paul's Passion to Minister to the Gentiles: "
"For by God’s grace, 16 I (Apostle Paul) am a special messenger from Christ Jesus to you Gentiles. I bring you the Good News so that I might present you as an acceptable offering to God, made holy by the Holy Spirit. 17 So I have reason to be enthusiastic about all Christ Jesus has done through me in my service to God. 18 Yet I dare not boast about anything except what Christ has done through me, bringing the Gentiles to God by my message and by the way I worked among them. 19 They were convinced by the power of miraculous signs and wonders and by the power of God’s Spirit.[i] In this way, I have fully presented the Good News of Christ from Jerusalem all the way to Illyricum.(Romans 15:15c-19)
Commentary: Paul had a passion to preach the gospel to the gentiles, to those who had never heard the gospel before. His goal was to "present them as an acceptable offering to the Lord".
Prayer: Lord, thank you for Paul's example of passion, focus and a clear vision for the ministry that you called him to. I know that this passion drove him and kept him going when things got difficult. I know that you have called me to minister to black college students and to young black men. Anoint me to serve with your power, passion and focus like Paul. Make them holy by the Holy Spirit and help them to be convinced by the power of God as they see you at work in their lives and the lives of those around them. In Jesus Name! Amen
Commentary: Paul had a passion to preach the gospel to the gentiles, to those who had never heard the gospel before. His goal was to "present them as an acceptable offering to the Lord".
Prayer: Lord, thank you for Paul's example of passion, focus and a clear vision for the ministry that you called him to. I know that this passion drove him and kept him going when things got difficult. I know that you have called me to minister to black college students and to young black men. Anoint me to serve with your power, passion and focus like Paul. Make them holy by the Holy Spirit and help them to be convinced by the power of God as they see you at work in their lives and the lives of those around them. In Jesus Name! Amen
Monday, November 9, 2009
Fred's Devo #55" God Gets the glory when we Welcome each Other"
7-13 "So reach out and welcome one another to God's glory. Jesus did it; now you do it! Jesus, staying true to God's purposes, reached out in a special way to the Jewish insiders so that the old ancestral promises would come true for them. As a result, the non-Jewish outsiders have been able to experience mercy and to show appreciation to God. Just think of all the Scriptures that will come true in what we do! For instance:
Then I'll join outsiders in a hymn-sing;
I'll sing to your name!
And this one:
Outsiders and insiders, rejoice together!
And again:
People of all nations, celebrate God!
All colors and races, give hearty praise!
And Isaiah's word:
There's the root of our ancestor Jesse,
breaking through the earth and growing tree tall,
Tall enough for everyone everywhere to see and take hope!
Oh! May the God of green hope fill you up with joy, fill you up with peace, so that your believing lives, filled with the life-giving energy of the Holy Spirit, will brim over with hope! (Romans 15:7-13)
Commentary: When we welcome our brothers and sisters in Christ from various backgrounds with a spirit of hospitality, it brings Glory to God! In this instance, Jews and Gentiles were worshiping together for the first time. Christ was the bond that united them. Today, there are Christians from various denominations, styles of worship and races. However, as long as we have accepted Christ as the Lord and Savior we are called to accept them into our Christian family.
Prayer: Lord help me to welcome my Christian brothers and sisters into my fellowship regardless to whether they are black, white, Baptist of Pentecostal, as long as they worship Christ as Lord and Savior, I know that they are a part of the family of Christ.
Then I'll join outsiders in a hymn-sing;
I'll sing to your name!
And this one:
Outsiders and insiders, rejoice together!
And again:
People of all nations, celebrate God!
All colors and races, give hearty praise!
And Isaiah's word:
There's the root of our ancestor Jesse,
breaking through the earth and growing tree tall,
Tall enough for everyone everywhere to see and take hope!
Oh! May the God of green hope fill you up with joy, fill you up with peace, so that your believing lives, filled with the life-giving energy of the Holy Spirit, will brim over with hope! (Romans 15:7-13)
Commentary: When we welcome our brothers and sisters in Christ from various backgrounds with a spirit of hospitality, it brings Glory to God! In this instance, Jews and Gentiles were worshiping together for the first time. Christ was the bond that united them. Today, there are Christians from various denominations, styles of worship and races. However, as long as we have accepted Christ as the Lord and Savior we are called to accept them into our Christian family.
Prayer: Lord help me to welcome my Christian brothers and sisters into my fellowship regardless to whether they are black, white, Baptist of Pentecostal, as long as they worship Christ as Lord and Savior, I know that they are a part of the family of Christ.
Friday, November 6, 2009
Fred's Devotional # 54 "Christ, Our Perfect High Priest"
Today's Devotional was written by Bill Bauerle
Hebrews 7:26-28:
"For it was indeed fitting that we should have such a high priest, holy, innocent, unstained, separated from sinners, and exalted above the heavens. He has no need, like those high priests, to offer sacrifices daily, first for his own sins and then for those of the people, since he did this once for all when he offered up himself. For the law appoints men in their weakness as high priests, but the word of the oath, which came later than the law, appoints a Son who has been made perfect forever."
The Levitical priesthood were themselves sinful men and had to offer sacrifice, daily, for themselves before they could for the people. On the other hand Christ is holy, innocent, undefiled and separated from sin and it was fitting (necessary) that Christ would be such, in that, His sacrifice could then be permanent. The sacrifice of priests had to be made over and over, but Christ’s sacrifice was a once for all thing and it was in His perfect sacrifice that we could be clothed with His righteousness. The old system shows us that trying harder could never accomplish salvation, where as, Christ's obedience is able to provide salvation for his covenant people. While the Old Testament priest may have had a true heart for the people of Israel, they did not have the ability to save them, nor could they even save themselves. Christ on the other hand needed no salvation for Himself and therefore what he merited in His sacrifice could then be reckoned to His people.
In the finished work of Christ we have perfect salvation, and empowering for us to live as obedient children.
Bill
Have a blessed Lord’s day
Hebrews 7:26-28:
"For it was indeed fitting that we should have such a high priest, holy, innocent, unstained, separated from sinners, and exalted above the heavens. He has no need, like those high priests, to offer sacrifices daily, first for his own sins and then for those of the people, since he did this once for all when he offered up himself. For the law appoints men in their weakness as high priests, but the word of the oath, which came later than the law, appoints a Son who has been made perfect forever."
The Levitical priesthood were themselves sinful men and had to offer sacrifice, daily, for themselves before they could for the people. On the other hand Christ is holy, innocent, undefiled and separated from sin and it was fitting (necessary) that Christ would be such, in that, His sacrifice could then be permanent. The sacrifice of priests had to be made over and over, but Christ’s sacrifice was a once for all thing and it was in His perfect sacrifice that we could be clothed with His righteousness. The old system shows us that trying harder could never accomplish salvation, where as, Christ's obedience is able to provide salvation for his covenant people. While the Old Testament priest may have had a true heart for the people of Israel, they did not have the ability to save them, nor could they even save themselves. Christ on the other hand needed no salvation for Himself and therefore what he merited in His sacrifice could then be reckoned to His people.
In the finished work of Christ we have perfect salvation, and empowering for us to live as obedient children.
Bill
Have a blessed Lord’s day
Thursday, November 5, 2009
53 "Looking Out for our Struggling Brothers and Sisters"
Paul shares a good word about being sensitive to our brothers and sisters with weaknesses or shortcomings.
1We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves. 2Each of us should please his neighbor for his good, to build him up. 3For even Christ did not please himself but, as it is written: "The insults of those who insult you have fallen on me."[a] 4For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. 5May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus, 6so that with one heart and mouth you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Fred's Reflections: Every Christian doesn't have it all together all the time. The truth is, sometimes we struggle. In those cases, the last thing the struggling Christian needs is for someone to "put him or her on blast" Instead, we should listen to them with sensitivity, pray for them and encourage them that they can overcome through the mighty power of Jesus Christ! If necessary, we can pray with them and walk with them, holding them accountable if they need it. The key to helping a struggling Christian is humility, love and speaking the truth. Do not excuse their sin, but let them know that God has helped you to overcome and he will help them as well. Most of all challenge them to stay in the word and be transformed by the renewal of their minds.
Prayer: Save me from self righteousness when it comes to ministering to struggling Christians. Help me to remember that others have helped me in my times of struggle. Help me to reach out to them with a spirit of humility, while speaking the truth in love. In Jesus Name, Amen
:
1We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves. 2Each of us should please his neighbor for his good, to build him up. 3For even Christ did not please himself but, as it is written: "The insults of those who insult you have fallen on me."[a] 4For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. 5May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus, 6so that with one heart and mouth you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Fred's Reflections: Every Christian doesn't have it all together all the time. The truth is, sometimes we struggle. In those cases, the last thing the struggling Christian needs is for someone to "put him or her on blast" Instead, we should listen to them with sensitivity, pray for them and encourage them that they can overcome through the mighty power of Jesus Christ! If necessary, we can pray with them and walk with them, holding them accountable if they need it. The key to helping a struggling Christian is humility, love and speaking the truth. Do not excuse their sin, but let them know that God has helped you to overcome and he will help them as well. Most of all challenge them to stay in the word and be transformed by the renewal of their minds.
Prayer: Save me from self righteousness when it comes to ministering to struggling Christians. Help me to remember that others have helped me in my times of struggle. Help me to reach out to them with a spirit of humility, while speaking the truth in love. In Jesus Name, Amen
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Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Fred's Devo #52 : "Jesus is the Gate to Salvation"
7 so he explained it to them: “I tell you the truth, I am the gate for the sheep. 8 All who came before me were thieves and robbers. But the true sheep did not listen to them. 9 Yes, I am the gate. Those who come in through me will be saved. They will come and go freely and will find good pastures. 10 The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life. (John 10:6-10)
Just before this passage, Jesus describes himself as a shepherd, caring for and loving us, His sheep. In this passage, Jesus describes himself as the gate, the way to salvation. Jesus makes it clear that as both the gate and the shepherd has the best interest of the sheep at heart. He is not like Satan the thief, whose purpose is to steal, kill and destroy. Instead his purpose is to bring us life-a rich and satisfying life!
Prayer: Dear God, thank you for sending Jesus as our Shepherd to care for us and as our Gate to lead us to salvation. Protect us Lord from the evil one who comes to kill, steal and destroy! Help us to remain in your fold and invite others to accept Jesus and join the fold as well.
In Jesus Name! Amen
Just before this passage, Jesus describes himself as a shepherd, caring for and loving us, His sheep. In this passage, Jesus describes himself as the gate, the way to salvation. Jesus makes it clear that as both the gate and the shepherd has the best interest of the sheep at heart. He is not like Satan the thief, whose purpose is to steal, kill and destroy. Instead his purpose is to bring us life-a rich and satisfying life!
Prayer: Dear God, thank you for sending Jesus as our Shepherd to care for us and as our Gate to lead us to salvation. Protect us Lord from the evil one who comes to kill, steal and destroy! Help us to remain in your fold and invite others to accept Jesus and join the fold as well.
In Jesus Name! Amen
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Fred's Devo # 51: "Every Believer Must Give a Personal Account to God!"
6 "Those who worship the Lord on a special day do it to honor him. Those who eat any kind of food do so to honor the Lord, since they give thanks to God before eating. And those who refuse to eat certain foods also want to please the Lord and give thanks to God. 7 For we don’t live for ourselves or die for ourselves. 8 If we live, it’s to honor the Lord. And if we die, it’s to honor the Lord. So whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord. 9 Christ died and rose again for this very purpose—to be Lord both of the living and of the dead.
10 So why do you condemn another believer[a]? Why do you look down on another believer? Remember, we will all stand before the judgment seat of God. 11 For the Scriptures say,
“‘As surely as I live,’ says the Lord,
‘every knee will bend to me,
and every tongue will confess and give praise to God.
12 Yes, each of us will give a personal account to God. 13 So let’s stop condemning each other. Decide instead to live in such a way that you will not cause another believer to stumble and fall. Romans 14:6-13
Fred's Reflections: "Every believer must give an account to God". Usually, when I think of this scripture, I think of it in connection win God judging the believer for sin. Actually, the context of this scripture is the liberty of the individual Christian to decide before God how he or she will live their lives in the grey areas. In other words, Christ will be my ultimate judge for how I choose to live my life in the gray areas (as well as the clear cut/ black and white areas). The passage tells us that the motivation of the believer is to honor the Lord. If we are focusing on honoring the Lord and not our weak brother and sisters, that will keep us from selfishness and insensitivity as we exercise our liberty in Christ.
Prayer: Lord, I know that you will ultimately judge me when it comes to the choices I make about how I live my day to day life in the gray areas. Lord, are there areas in my life where I am not honoring you with my choices? ...Yes Lord, I confess to you that I can be a better steward of all of the things you have given me. I ask for your help as I make changes in the area of personal stewardship and management.
In Jesus Name! Amen
10 So why do you condemn another believer[a]? Why do you look down on another believer? Remember, we will all stand before the judgment seat of God. 11 For the Scriptures say,
“‘As surely as I live,’ says the Lord,
‘every knee will bend to me,
and every tongue will confess and give praise to God.
12 Yes, each of us will give a personal account to God. 13 So let’s stop condemning each other. Decide instead to live in such a way that you will not cause another believer to stumble and fall. Romans 14:6-13
Fred's Reflections: "Every believer must give an account to God". Usually, when I think of this scripture, I think of it in connection win God judging the believer for sin. Actually, the context of this scripture is the liberty of the individual Christian to decide before God how he or she will live their lives in the grey areas. In other words, Christ will be my ultimate judge for how I choose to live my life in the gray areas (as well as the clear cut/ black and white areas). The passage tells us that the motivation of the believer is to honor the Lord. If we are focusing on honoring the Lord and not our weak brother and sisters, that will keep us from selfishness and insensitivity as we exercise our liberty in Christ.
Prayer: Lord, I know that you will ultimately judge me when it comes to the choices I make about how I live my day to day life in the gray areas. Lord, are there areas in my life where I am not honoring you with my choices? ...Yes Lord, I confess to you that I can be a better steward of all of the things you have given me. I ask for your help as I make changes in the area of personal stewardship and management.
In Jesus Name! Amen
Monday, November 2, 2009
Fred's Devotional # 50 "How to Handle Differences over Disputable Matters
Some things are clearly right and wrong. We know it's wrong to lie, steal, or commit adultery. There are other areas that are not so cut and dry and my depend on where the individual is in their walk with the Lord. Today's passage will give us some guidance in this area. Read it thoughtfully.
1 Welcome with open arms fellow believers who don't see things the way you do. And don't jump all over them every time they do or say something you don't agree with—even when it seems that they are strong on opinions but weak in the faith department. Remember, they have their own history to deal with. Treat them gently.
2-4For instance, a person who has been around for a while might well be convinced that he can eat anything on the table, while another, with a different background, might assume he should only be a vegetarian and eat accordingly. But since both are guests at Christ's table, wouldn't it be terribly rude if they fell to criticizing what the other ate or didn't eat? God, after all, invited them both to the table. Do you have any business crossing people off the guest list or interfering with God's welcome? If there are corrections to be made or manners to be learned, God can handle that without your help.
5Or, say, one person thinks that some days should be set aside as holy and another thinks that each day is pretty much like any other. There are good reasons either way. So, each person is free to follow the convictions of conscience". Romans 14:1-5, The Message
Fred's Reflections: In matters of how we dress, how we wear our hair, what we eat; these are matters that the individual Christian must decide before the Lord, depending on where they are in their walk with God. The questions they have to ask are these: Does it draw me away from God? Does it offend my brother? Does it bring shame on the name of Christ? Can I glorify Christ while doing this thing? Does it bother my Christian conscience? For example, before I became a Christian I loved soul and R & B music. After I got saved, I had to stop listening to it because it drew me away from Christ and back to thoughts of my previous lifestyle. Today, as an mature Christian, it does not hinder my relationship with God to listen to a James Brown or Marvin Gaye song. On the other hand, If I was riding in my car with a young believer who just gave his life to Christ, I would not turn to an R & B station if I knew this music could draw him away from Christ.
Let's pray: Lord help me to obey you in the things I know to do right. In the grey areas, help me to me to live my life in a way that keeps me close to you, honors Jesus and is sensitive to my brothers and sisters. In Jesus Name! Amen
1 Welcome with open arms fellow believers who don't see things the way you do. And don't jump all over them every time they do or say something you don't agree with—even when it seems that they are strong on opinions but weak in the faith department. Remember, they have their own history to deal with. Treat them gently.
2-4For instance, a person who has been around for a while might well be convinced that he can eat anything on the table, while another, with a different background, might assume he should only be a vegetarian and eat accordingly. But since both are guests at Christ's table, wouldn't it be terribly rude if they fell to criticizing what the other ate or didn't eat? God, after all, invited them both to the table. Do you have any business crossing people off the guest list or interfering with God's welcome? If there are corrections to be made or manners to be learned, God can handle that without your help.
5Or, say, one person thinks that some days should be set aside as holy and another thinks that each day is pretty much like any other. There are good reasons either way. So, each person is free to follow the convictions of conscience". Romans 14:1-5, The Message
Fred's Reflections: In matters of how we dress, how we wear our hair, what we eat; these are matters that the individual Christian must decide before the Lord, depending on where they are in their walk with God. The questions they have to ask are these: Does it draw me away from God? Does it offend my brother? Does it bring shame on the name of Christ? Can I glorify Christ while doing this thing? Does it bother my Christian conscience? For example, before I became a Christian I loved soul and R & B music. After I got saved, I had to stop listening to it because it drew me away from Christ and back to thoughts of my previous lifestyle. Today, as an mature Christian, it does not hinder my relationship with God to listen to a James Brown or Marvin Gaye song. On the other hand, If I was riding in my car with a young believer who just gave his life to Christ, I would not turn to an R & B station if I knew this music could draw him away from Christ.
Let's pray: Lord help me to obey you in the things I know to do right. In the grey areas, help me to me to live my life in a way that keeps me close to you, honors Jesus and is sensitive to my brothers and sisters. In Jesus Name! Amen
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