Starting today you will see the Stillness in the Morning blog look a bit different. The layout will be updated but you'll still be able to get daily devotionals by my favorite authors as well as a few of my own thoughts on my devotional time. You will also be able to get monthly memory verses like before.
What will change is the Bible Reading Guide. I will no longer be posting them like I have but will give you the Back to the Bible website link so you can go there yourself and choose which method you want to use.
Thank you for taking the time to visit the Stillness blog. I hope the Lord has blessed you through it.
Krista Jones
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Rev. 20-22
Old and New Testaments Together: Malachi & Rev. 22
Historical: Rev. 19-22
Chronological: Rev. 19-22
Blended: Malachi & Luke 24:36-53
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
God's Promises - Prayer
"Then you will call upon Me and come and pray to Me, and I will listen to you." Jeremiah 29:12
One of the things I love about God is that no matter what I know that I can call upon Him and He will listen to me. When is the last time you called upon the Lord in prayer? If it's been a while I strong encourage you to take some time and communicate with the Lord through prayer.
Krista Jones
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Rev. 17-19
Old and New Testaments Together: Zech. 13-14 & Rev. 21
Historical: Rev. 12-18
Chronological: Rev. 12-18
Blended: Zach. 13-14 & Luke 24:1-35
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
One of the things I love about God is that no matter what I know that I can call upon Him and He will listen to me. When is the last time you called upon the Lord in prayer? If it's been a while I strong encourage you to take some time and communicate with the Lord through prayer.
Krista Jones
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Rev. 17-19
Old and New Testaments Together: Zech. 13-14 & Rev. 21
Historical: Rev. 12-18
Chronological: Rev. 12-18
Blended: Zach. 13-14 & Luke 24:1-35
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
God's Promises - Trust
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge HIm, and He will make your paths straight." Proverbs 3:5-6
There are so many times when I chose not to trust in the Lord and trust in my own understanding. And I can say that each time I did this things didn't turn out for the best. Sometimes they still turned out OK but I know that had I trusted in the Lord that they may have turned out a lot different. Who are you trusting in?
Krista Jones
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Rev. 13-16
Old and New Testaments Together: Zech. 9-12 & Rev. 20
Historical: Rev. 6-11
Chronological: Rev. 6-11
Blended: Zach. 9-12 & Luke 23:26-56
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
There are so many times when I chose not to trust in the Lord and trust in my own understanding. And I can say that each time I did this things didn't turn out for the best. Sometimes they still turned out OK but I know that had I trusted in the Lord that they may have turned out a lot different. Who are you trusting in?
Krista Jones
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Rev. 13-16
Old and New Testaments Together: Zech. 9-12 & Rev. 20
Historical: Rev. 6-11
Chronological: Rev. 6-11
Blended: Zach. 9-12 & Luke 23:26-56
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Monday, December 28, 2009
God's Promises - Protection
"The Lord will protect you from al evil; He will keep your soul, the Lord will guard your going out and your coming in from this time froth and forever." Psalm 121:7-8
It is so wonderful that God cares so much for us that he constantly protects our going out and coming in. Think about the many times the Lord has been there for you in a time when you needed His protection the most. Now thank Him and praise Him for all that He's done for you.
Krista Jones
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Rev. 9-12
Old and New Testaments Together: Zech. 5-8 & Rev. 19
Historical: Rev. 1-5
Chronological: Rev. 1-5
Blended: Zach. 5-8 & Luke 23:1-25
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
It is so wonderful that God cares so much for us that he constantly protects our going out and coming in. Think about the many times the Lord has been there for you in a time when you needed His protection the most. Now thank Him and praise Him for all that He's done for you.
Krista Jones
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Rev. 9-12
Old and New Testaments Together: Zech. 5-8 & Rev. 19
Historical: Rev. 1-5
Chronological: Rev. 1-5
Blended: Zach. 5-8 & Luke 23:1-25
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Saturday, December 26, 2009
Weekend Bible Reading
Bible Reading Guide:
Saturday:
Beginning to End: Rev. 1-3
Old and New Testaments Together: Haggai & Rev. 17
Historical: I John
Chronological: I John
Blended: Micah 6-7 & Luke 22:21-46
Sunday:
Beginning to End: Rev. 4-8
Old and New Testaments Together: Zach. 1-4 & Rev. 18
Historical: 2 John & 3 John
Chronological:2 John & 3 John
Blended: Zech. 1-4 & Luke 22:47-71
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Saturday:
Beginning to End: Rev. 1-3
Old and New Testaments Together: Haggai & Rev. 17
Historical: I John
Chronological: I John
Blended: Micah 6-7 & Luke 22:21-46
Sunday:
Beginning to End: Rev. 4-8
Old and New Testaments Together: Zach. 1-4 & Rev. 18
Historical: 2 John & 3 John
Chronological:2 John & 3 John
Blended: Zech. 1-4 & Luke 22:47-71
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Friday, December 25, 2009
The Christmas Story
Luke 2 - Jesus' Birth in Bethlehem
1 Now in those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus, that a census be taken of all the inhabited earth.
2 This was the first census taken while Quirinius was governor of Syria.
3 And everyone was on his way to register for the census, each to his own city.
4 Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the city of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and family of David,
5 in order to register along with Mary, who was engaged to him, and was with child.
6 While they were there, the days were completed for her to give birth.
7 And she gave birth to her firstborn son; and she wrapped Him in cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.
8 In the same region there were some shepherds staying out in the fields and keeping watch over their flock by night.
9 And an angel of the Lord suddenly stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them; and they were terribly frightened.
10 But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people;
11 for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.
12 "This will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger."
13 And suddenly there appeared with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying,
14 "Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace among men with whom He is pleased."
15 When the angels had gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds began saying to one another, "Let us go straight to Bethlehem then, and see this thing that has happened which the Lord has made known to us."
16 So they came in a hurry and found their way to Mary and Joseph, and the baby as He lay in the manger.
17 When they had seen this, they made known the statement which had been told them about this Child.
18 And all who heard it wondered at the things which were told them by the shepherds.
19 But Mary treasured all these things, pondering them in her heart.
20 The shepherds went back, glorifying and praising God for all that they had heard and seen, just as had been told them.
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: 2 John & Jude
Old and New Testaments Together: Zephaniah & Rev. 16
Historical: John 19-21
Chronological: 2 Peter & Jude
Blended: Micah 4-5 & Luke 22:1-20
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
1 Now in those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus, that a census be taken of all the inhabited earth.
2 This was the first census taken while Quirinius was governor of Syria.
3 And everyone was on his way to register for the census, each to his own city.
4 Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the city of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and family of David,
5 in order to register along with Mary, who was engaged to him, and was with child.
6 While they were there, the days were completed for her to give birth.
7 And she gave birth to her firstborn son; and she wrapped Him in cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.
8 In the same region there were some shepherds staying out in the fields and keeping watch over their flock by night.
9 And an angel of the Lord suddenly stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them; and they were terribly frightened.
10 But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people;
11 for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.
12 "This will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger."
13 And suddenly there appeared with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying,
14 "Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace among men with whom He is pleased."
15 When the angels had gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds began saying to one another, "Let us go straight to Bethlehem then, and see this thing that has happened which the Lord has made known to us."
16 So they came in a hurry and found their way to Mary and Joseph, and the baby as He lay in the manger.
17 When they had seen this, they made known the statement which had been told them about this Child.
18 And all who heard it wondered at the things which were told them by the shepherds.
19 But Mary treasured all these things, pondering them in her heart.
20 The shepherds went back, glorifying and praising God for all that they had heard and seen, just as had been told them.
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: 2 John & Jude
Old and New Testaments Together: Zephaniah & Rev. 16
Historical: John 19-21
Chronological: 2 Peter & Jude
Blended: Micah 4-5 & Luke 22:1-20
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Emmanuel
"Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign: Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel." Isaiah 7:14
Emmanuel, "God with us."
These days it's fashionable to speak of the "wonder" or the "magic" of Christmas, as though the holiday were simply a time to celebrate human kindness and the enduring strength of old and treasured relationships. For the Christian, this is especially frustrating. At times we are tempted, like Charlie Brown in the old "Peanuts" special, to shout, "Isn't there anybody who knows what Christmas is all about?"
As believers, we alone can share the real meaning of Christmas. It is contained in that lovely name Emmanuel, "God with us." Christmas is Jesus leaving His Glory in Heaven and humbling Himself to become one of us. The wonder of Christmas is that God should not only have good will towards us but demonstrate it in the most personal and costly way imaginable, all out of love for a ruined creation, and broken men and women.
As believers we have known and experienced God with us. He has left us the task of helping others to experience Him as Emmanuel, too.
Lord Jesus, let us be faithful to Your final command, to go into all the world and make disciples of all nations. While men's hearts and thoughts are turning to you in this season, help us to make the most of every opportunity to share Your light and your love!
By Nick, taken from The Harvest Blog
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: I John
Old and New Testaments Together: Habakkuk & Rev. 15
Historical: John 16-18
Chronological: 2 Timothy
Blended: Micah 1-3 & Luke 21:20-38
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Emmanuel, "God with us."
These days it's fashionable to speak of the "wonder" or the "magic" of Christmas, as though the holiday were simply a time to celebrate human kindness and the enduring strength of old and treasured relationships. For the Christian, this is especially frustrating. At times we are tempted, like Charlie Brown in the old "Peanuts" special, to shout, "Isn't there anybody who knows what Christmas is all about?"
As believers, we alone can share the real meaning of Christmas. It is contained in that lovely name Emmanuel, "God with us." Christmas is Jesus leaving His Glory in Heaven and humbling Himself to become one of us. The wonder of Christmas is that God should not only have good will towards us but demonstrate it in the most personal and costly way imaginable, all out of love for a ruined creation, and broken men and women.
As believers we have known and experienced God with us. He has left us the task of helping others to experience Him as Emmanuel, too.
Lord Jesus, let us be faithful to Your final command, to go into all the world and make disciples of all nations. While men's hearts and thoughts are turning to you in this season, help us to make the most of every opportunity to share Your light and your love!
By Nick, taken from The Harvest Blog
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: I John
Old and New Testaments Together: Habakkuk & Rev. 15
Historical: John 16-18
Chronological: 2 Timothy
Blended: Micah 1-3 & Luke 21:20-38
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
God's Promises - Eternal Comfort and Hope
"Now may our Lord Jesus Christ Himself and God our Father, who has loved us and given us eternal comfort and good hope by Grace." 2 Thessalonians 2:16
What a joy it is to be loved by God who gives us comfort and hope in all times of our lives. I have personally felt His comfort during the difficult journeys I have been on and can honestly say there is no such comfort as the comfort of our Lord!
Krista Jones
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: 2 Peter
Old and New Testaments Together: Nahum & Rev. 14
Historical: John 13-15
Chronological: Hebrews 11-13
Blended: Neh. 12-13 & Luke 21:1-19
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
What a joy it is to be loved by God who gives us comfort and hope in all times of our lives. I have personally felt His comfort during the difficult journeys I have been on and can honestly say there is no such comfort as the comfort of our Lord!
Krista Jones
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: 2 Peter
Old and New Testaments Together: Nahum & Rev. 14
Historical: John 13-15
Chronological: Hebrews 11-13
Blended: Neh. 12-13 & Luke 21:1-19
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
God's Promises - His Peace
"And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:7
God gives us peace that goes beyond a state of mind. It goes to a inner tranquility that is based upon from God alone. Like this verse says, His peace, "will guard your hearts and your minds."
Krista Jones
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: I Peter
Old and New Testaments Together: Micah 6-7 & Rev. 13
Historical: John 11-12
Chronological: Hebrews 7-10
Blended: Neh. 10-11 & Luke 20:27-47
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
God gives us peace that goes beyond a state of mind. It goes to a inner tranquility that is based upon from God alone. Like this verse says, His peace, "will guard your hearts and your minds."
Krista Jones
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: I Peter
Old and New Testaments Together: Micah 6-7 & Rev. 13
Historical: John 11-12
Chronological: Hebrews 7-10
Blended: Neh. 10-11 & Luke 20:27-47
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Monday, December 21, 2009
God's Promises - His Mercy
"Just as a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion those who fear Him." Psalm 103:13
I can honestly say that my life lacks a certain amount of compassion. Compassion for the lost, the needy, those who are hurting and in need of God's love. But God is not like me. He loves us and has compassion on us. How wonderful is that!?
Krista Jones
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: James
Old and New Testaments Together: Micah 4-5 & Rev. 12
Historical: John 9-10
Chronological: Hebrews 1-6
Blended: Neh. 7-9 & Luke 20:1-26
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
I can honestly say that my life lacks a certain amount of compassion. Compassion for the lost, the needy, those who are hurting and in need of God's love. But God is not like me. He loves us and has compassion on us. How wonderful is that!?
Krista Jones
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: James
Old and New Testaments Together: Micah 4-5 & Rev. 12
Historical: John 9-10
Chronological: Hebrews 1-6
Blended: Neh. 7-9 & Luke 20:1-26
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Saturday, December 19, 2009
Weekend Bible Reading
Bible Reading Guide:
Saturday:
Beginning to End: Hebrews 7-10
Old and New Testaments Together: Jonah & Rev. 10
Historical: John 5-6
Chronological: Titus
Blended: Neh. 1-3 & Luke 19:1-27
Sunday:
Beginning to End: Hebrews 11-13
Old and New Testaments Together: Micah 1-3 & Rev. 11
Historical: John 7-8
Chronological: I Peter
Blended: Neh. 4-6 & Luke 19:28-48
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Saturday:
Beginning to End: Hebrews 7-10
Old and New Testaments Together: Jonah & Rev. 10
Historical: John 5-6
Chronological: Titus
Blended: Neh. 1-3 & Luke 19:1-27
Sunday:
Beginning to End: Hebrews 11-13
Old and New Testaments Together: Micah 1-3 & Rev. 11
Historical: John 7-8
Chronological: I Peter
Blended: Neh. 4-6 & Luke 19:28-48
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Friday, December 18, 2009
God's Promises - His Love
"The Lord appeared to him from afar, saying, 'I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore I have drawn you with lovingkindness." Jeremiah 31:3
God has loved us with everlasting love which means His love is not conditional. So often our love for each other is more conditional. It's based upon what is or isn't done. But no matter what God loves us and that love can not be taken away from us.
Krista Jones
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Hebrews 1-6
Old and New Testaments Together: Obadiah & Rev. 9
Historical: John 3-4
Chronological: I Timothy
Blended: Joshua 22-24 & Luke 18:24-43
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
God has loved us with everlasting love which means His love is not conditional. So often our love for each other is more conditional. It's based upon what is or isn't done. But no matter what God loves us and that love can not be taken away from us.
Krista Jones
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Hebrews 1-6
Old and New Testaments Together: Obadiah & Rev. 9
Historical: John 3-4
Chronological: I Timothy
Blended: Joshua 22-24 & Luke 18:24-43
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Thursday, December 17, 2009
God's Promises - Complete Joy
"These things I have spoken to you so that My joy may be in you, and that your joy may be made full." John 15:11
Joy is sometimes hard to come by. Most often we mistake happiness for joy but happiness can come and go with our circumstances. Complete joy is something that comes from God and what He places into your life. Joy that does not change with circumstances.
Krista Jones
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Titus & Philemon
Old and New Testaments Together: Amos 7-9 & Rev. 8
Historical: John 1-2
Chronological: Philippians
Blended: Joshua 19-21 & Luke 18:1-23
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Joy is sometimes hard to come by. Most often we mistake happiness for joy but happiness can come and go with our circumstances. Complete joy is something that comes from God and what He places into your life. Joy that does not change with circumstances.
Krista Jones
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Titus & Philemon
Old and New Testaments Together: Amos 7-9 & Rev. 8
Historical: John 1-2
Chronological: Philippians
Blended: Joshua 19-21 & Luke 18:1-23
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
God's Promises - His Faithfulness
"For the mountains may be removed and the hills may shake, but My lovingkindness will not be removed from you, and My convenient of peace will not be shaken,' say the Lord who has compassion on you." Isaiah 54:10
God is faithful even when times are shaky. His love can never been removed from us because of His promises.
Krista Jones
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: 2 Timothy
Old and New Testaments Together: Amos 4-6 & Rev. 7
Historical: 2 Peter & Jude
Chronological: Ephesians
Blended: Joshua 16-18 & Luke 17:20-37
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
God is faithful even when times are shaky. His love can never been removed from us because of His promises.
Krista Jones
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: 2 Timothy
Old and New Testaments Together: Amos 4-6 & Rev. 7
Historical: 2 Peter & Jude
Chronological: Ephesians
Blended: Joshua 16-18 & Luke 17:20-37
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
God's Promises - Eternal Life
"Truly, truly, I say to you, he who believes has eternal life." John 6:47
One thing that no other god can do is give eternal life like God can. Eternal life is freely offered if only you will turn your life over to Him. He's just a prayer away.
Krista Jones
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: I Timothy
Old and New Testaments Together: Amos 1-3 & Rev. 6
Historical: 2 Timothy
Chronological: Colossians & Philemon
Blended: Joshua 13-15 & Luke 17:1-19
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
One thing that no other god can do is give eternal life like God can. Eternal life is freely offered if only you will turn your life over to Him. He's just a prayer away.
Krista Jones
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: I Timothy
Old and New Testaments Together: Amos 1-3 & Rev. 6
Historical: 2 Timothy
Chronological: Colossians & Philemon
Blended: Joshua 13-15 & Luke 17:1-19
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Monday, December 14, 2009
God's Promises - He gives us Courage
"He gives strength to the weary, and to Him who lacks might He increases power." Isaiah 40:29
How often do you feel weary and discouraged? Did you know you can cry out to God and He will give you strength? If you are experiencing weariness try turning to God and draw upon His strength.
Krista Jones
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: 2 Thessalonians
Old and New Testaments Together: Joel & Rev. 5
Historical: Hebrews 11-13
Chronological: Acts 27-28
Blended: Joshua 10-12 & Luke 16
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
How often do you feel weary and discouraged? Did you know you can cry out to God and He will give you strength? If you are experiencing weariness try turning to God and draw upon His strength.
Krista Jones
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: 2 Thessalonians
Old and New Testaments Together: Joel & Rev. 5
Historical: Hebrews 11-13
Chronological: Acts 27-28
Blended: Joshua 10-12 & Luke 16
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Saturday, December 12, 2009
Weekend Bible Reading
Bible Reading Guide:
Saturday:
Beginning to End: Colossians
Old and New Testaments Together: Hos. 9-11 & Rev. 3
Historical: Hebrews 1-6
Chronological: Acts 20:4-23:35
Blended: Joshua 4-6 & Luke 15:1-10
Sunday:
Beginning to End: I Thessalonians
Old and New Testaments Together: Hos. 12-14 & Rev. 4
Historical: Hebrews -10
Chronological: Acts 24-26
Blended: Joshua 7-9 & Luke 15:11-32
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Saturday:
Beginning to End: Colossians
Old and New Testaments Together: Hos. 9-11 & Rev. 3
Historical: Hebrews 1-6
Chronological: Acts 20:4-23:35
Blended: Joshua 4-6 & Luke 15:1-10
Sunday:
Beginning to End: I Thessalonians
Old and New Testaments Together: Hos. 12-14 & Rev. 4
Historical: Hebrews -10
Chronological: Acts 24-26
Blended: Joshua 7-9 & Luke 15:11-32
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Friday, December 11, 2009
God's Promises - Gives Us Strength
"I can do all things through Him who strengthens me." Philippians 4:13
This is often called the 10 finger prayer. Whenever you need strength just lift up your hands in prayer and pray Phil. 4:13!
Krista Jones
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Philippians
Old and New Testaments Together: Hos. 5-8 & Rev. 2
Historical: I Peter
Chronological: Romans 14-16
Blended: Joshua 1-3 & Luke 14:25-35
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
This is often called the 10 finger prayer. Whenever you need strength just lift up your hands in prayer and pray Phil. 4:13!
Krista Jones
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Philippians
Old and New Testaments Together: Hos. 5-8 & Rev. 2
Historical: I Peter
Chronological: Romans 14-16
Blended: Joshua 1-3 & Luke 14:25-35
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Thursday, December 10, 2009
God's Promises - Plans of Hope
"For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord, 'plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope."
Jeremiah 29:11
When I was diagnosed with cancer I remember turning to God during the darkest time of that journey. And like His other promise He gave us that we've read about, when I called upon Him He heard me and answered me. This is the verse He lead me to and one I clung to throughout my treatment. I feel blessed to serve a God who I not only turn to but who will answer me.
Krista Jones
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Eph. 4-6
Old and New Testaments Together: Hos. 1-4 & Rev. 1
Historical: Titus
Chronological: Romans 11-13
Blended: Haggai & Luke 14:1-24
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Jeremiah 29:11
When I was diagnosed with cancer I remember turning to God during the darkest time of that journey. And like His other promise He gave us that we've read about, when I called upon Him He heard me and answered me. This is the verse He lead me to and one I clung to throughout my treatment. I feel blessed to serve a God who I not only turn to but who will answer me.
Krista Jones
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Eph. 4-6
Old and New Testaments Together: Hos. 1-4 & Rev. 1
Historical: Titus
Chronological: Romans 11-13
Blended: Haggai & Luke 14:1-24
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Wednesday, December 09, 2009
God's Promises - Does more then we can ask
"Now to Him who is able to do for more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us." Ephesians 3:20
What an awesome God that we serve who is able to do "far more abundantly beyond all we ask or think." I love the fact that I can always go to Him with my needs but to also know that He anticipates our needs. Do you currently have a great need? Grasp this promise and go to Him with it. Then wait upon Him in faith and see what He can do for you and through you.
Krista Jones
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Eph. 1-3
Old and New Testaments Together: Daniel 11-12 & Jude
Historical: I Timothy
Chronological: Romans 8-10
Blended: Esther 9-10 & Luke 13:23-25
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
What an awesome God that we serve who is able to do "far more abundantly beyond all we ask or think." I love the fact that I can always go to Him with my needs but to also know that He anticipates our needs. Do you currently have a great need? Grasp this promise and go to Him with it. Then wait upon Him in faith and see what He can do for you and through you.
Krista Jones
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Eph. 1-3
Old and New Testaments Together: Daniel 11-12 & Jude
Historical: I Timothy
Chronological: Romans 8-10
Blended: Esther 9-10 & Luke 13:23-25
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Tuesday, December 08, 2009
God's Promises - To Forgives
"If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." I John 1:9
We all sin because we are human. And it's one reason why we need a Savior and why Jesus came to us and saved us so that we can go to Him when we've sinned. He promises to forgive us and helps to restore whatever communion we had with God that was interrupted by our sin. No other god is like our Savior who not only forgives us but cleanses os from "all unrighteousness."
Krista Jones
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Gal. 4-6
Old and New Testaments Together: Daniel 8-10 & 3 John
Historical: Acts 26-28
Chronological: Romans 4-7
Blended: Esther 6-8 & Luke 13:1-22
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
We all sin because we are human. And it's one reason why we need a Savior and why Jesus came to us and saved us so that we can go to Him when we've sinned. He promises to forgive us and helps to restore whatever communion we had with God that was interrupted by our sin. No other god is like our Savior who not only forgives us but cleanses os from "all unrighteousness."
Krista Jones
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Gal. 4-6
Old and New Testaments Together: Daniel 8-10 & 3 John
Historical: Acts 26-28
Chronological: Romans 4-7
Blended: Esther 6-8 & Luke 13:1-22
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Monday, December 07, 2009
God's Promises - Salvation
"Therefore He is able also to save forever those who draw near to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them." Hebrews 7:25
It is wonderful that Jesus is able to completely save us for all time. I am blessed to have a personal God who allows me to draw near to Him.
Krista Jones
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Gal. 1-3
Old and New Testaments Together: Daniel 5-7 & 2 John
Historical: Acts 23-25
Chronological: Acts 20:1-3 & Romans 1-3
Blended: Esther 3-5 & Luke 12:32-59
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
It is wonderful that Jesus is able to completely save us for all time. I am blessed to have a personal God who allows me to draw near to Him.
Krista Jones
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Gal. 1-3
Old and New Testaments Together: Daniel 5-7 & 2 John
Historical: Acts 23-25
Chronological: Acts 20:1-3 & Romans 1-3
Blended: Esther 3-5 & Luke 12:32-59
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Saturday, December 05, 2009
Weekend Bible Reading
Bible Reading Guide:
Saturday:
Beginning to End: 2 Cor. 5-9
Old and New Testaments Together: Daniel 1-2 & I John 4
Historical: Acts 17-19
Chronological: 2 Cor. 5-9
Blended: 2 Chron. 34-36 & Luke 11:29-54
Sunday:
Beginning to End: 2 Cor. 10-13
Old and New Testaments Together: Daniel 3-4 & I John 5
Historical: Acts 20-22
Chronological: 2 Cor. 10-13
Blended: Esther 1-2 & Luke 12:1-31
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Saturday:
Beginning to End: 2 Cor. 5-9
Old and New Testaments Together: Daniel 1-2 & I John 4
Historical: Acts 17-19
Chronological: 2 Cor. 5-9
Blended: 2 Chron. 34-36 & Luke 11:29-54
Sunday:
Beginning to End: 2 Cor. 10-13
Old and New Testaments Together: Daniel 3-4 & I John 5
Historical: Acts 20-22
Chronological: 2 Cor. 10-13
Blended: Esther 1-2 & Luke 12:1-31
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Friday, December 04, 2009
God's Promises - Cast Anxiety on Him
"Casting all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you." I Peter 5:7
I tend to lean towards being a worrier. It's not healthy and does no good but somewhere inside of me, I can't seem to stop the worries rising to the surface. But I am so thankful that I have a loving God who takes all my anxiety and worries upon Himself. When I worry I know that I can lift the burden of worry into His arms. God cares for you! He cares so much for you that He not only sent His Son, Jesus, to you as well as the Holy Spirit to guide us. He also takes upon Himself our worries and fills us with peace.
Krista Jones
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: 2 Cor. 1-4
Old and New Testaments Together: Ezek. 47-48 & I John 3
Historical: Acts 14-16
Chronological: 2 Cor. 1-4
Blended: 2 Chron. 32-33 & Luke 11:1-28
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
I tend to lean towards being a worrier. It's not healthy and does no good but somewhere inside of me, I can't seem to stop the worries rising to the surface. But I am so thankful that I have a loving God who takes all my anxiety and worries upon Himself. When I worry I know that I can lift the burden of worry into His arms. God cares for you! He cares so much for you that He not only sent His Son, Jesus, to you as well as the Holy Spirit to guide us. He also takes upon Himself our worries and fills us with peace.
Krista Jones
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: 2 Cor. 1-4
Old and New Testaments Together: Ezek. 47-48 & I John 3
Historical: Acts 14-16
Chronological: 2 Cor. 1-4
Blended: 2 Chron. 32-33 & Luke 11:1-28
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Thursday, December 03, 2009
God's Promises - Led by the Spirit
"For all who are being led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God." Romans 8:14
Once we invite Jesus into our lives and become His children we are filled with the Holy Spirit. When Jesus died on the cross and rose again He ascended up into heaven to be at the right hand of the Father (God). But He did not leave us alone. Not only did God send His Son Jesus to Save us He gave us the Holy Spirit so that we would always be aware of His presence in our lives, "I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may be with you forever." John 14:16
Krista Jones
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: I Cor. 15-16
Old and New Testaments Together: Ezek. 45-46 & I John 2
Historical: Acts 11-13
Chronological: I Cor. 15-16
Blended: 2 Chron. 30-31 & Luke 10:25-42
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Once we invite Jesus into our lives and become His children we are filled with the Holy Spirit. When Jesus died on the cross and rose again He ascended up into heaven to be at the right hand of the Father (God). But He did not leave us alone. Not only did God send His Son Jesus to Save us He gave us the Holy Spirit so that we would always be aware of His presence in our lives, "I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may be with you forever." John 14:16
Krista Jones
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: I Cor. 15-16
Old and New Testaments Together: Ezek. 45-46 & I John 2
Historical: Acts 11-13
Chronological: I Cor. 15-16
Blended: 2 Chron. 30-31 & Luke 10:25-42
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Wednesday, December 02, 2009
God's Promises
This month we are going to remember God's promises He has freely given us. Promises that are ours to grasp and believe in. Each day we will read a verse on God's promises to us. It'll be a bit different from what we've been doing as it'll be short and sweet so you can concentrate on what God is saying to you in each verse.
"Where can I go from Your Spirit? Or where can I fell from Your presence? If I ascend to heaven, You are there; If I make my bed in Shoel, behold, You are there. If I take the wings of the dawn, If I dwell in the remotest part of the sea, even there Your hand will lead me, and Your right hand will lay hold of me." Psalm 139:7-10
When you come to know Jesus, you will begin to sense His presence. He is always with you no matter what your circumstances are or where you go. I always find it comforting to know that through difficult times I am never alone. But that God is still standing by my side guiding me through it. I feel blessed to have a loving God who cares enough to be an everlasting presence in my life.
Krista Jones
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: I Cor. 12-14
Old and New Testaments Together: Ezek. 42-44 & I John 1
Historical: Acts 9-10
Chronological: I Cor. 12-14
Blended: 2 Chron. 28-29 & Luke 10:1-24
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
"Where can I go from Your Spirit? Or where can I fell from Your presence? If I ascend to heaven, You are there; If I make my bed in Shoel, behold, You are there. If I take the wings of the dawn, If I dwell in the remotest part of the sea, even there Your hand will lead me, and Your right hand will lay hold of me." Psalm 139:7-10
When you come to know Jesus, you will begin to sense His presence. He is always with you no matter what your circumstances are or where you go. I always find it comforting to know that through difficult times I am never alone. But that God is still standing by my side guiding me through it. I feel blessed to have a loving God who cares enough to be an everlasting presence in my life.
Krista Jones
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: I Cor. 12-14
Old and New Testaments Together: Ezek. 42-44 & I John 1
Historical: Acts 9-10
Chronological: I Cor. 12-14
Blended: 2 Chron. 28-29 & Luke 10:1-24
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Tuesday, December 01, 2009
December's Memory Verse
John 3:16
John 3:16 (NASB - New American Standard Bible)
November's Memory Verse: Galatians 6:9-10
October's Memory Verse: Matthew 11:28-30
September's Memory Verse: Isaiah 41:10
August's Memory Verse: Ephesians 4:31
July's Memory Verse: I John 5:13
June's Memory Verse: Ephesians 4:25
May's Memory Verse: James 1:2-4
April's Memory Verse: Jeremiah 30:17
March's Memory Verse: James 1:5
February's Memory Verse: John 15:5
January's Memory Verse: Ephesians 3:20-21
December's Memory Verse: Lamentations 3:22-23
November's Memory Verse: 2 Timothy 2:15
October's Memory Verse: Proverbs 16:1-3
September's Memory Verse: Proverbs 17:9
January's Memory Verse: Ephesians 3:20-21
Remember the key is to review review review. Always review the verses you've already memorized along with learning this month's verse.
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: I Cor. 9-11
Old and New Testaments Together: Ezek. 40-41 & 2 Peter 3
Historical: Acts 7-8
Chronological: I Cor. 9-11
Blended: 2 Chron. 25-27 & Luke 9:37-62
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
November's Memory Verse: Galatians 6:9-10
October's Memory Verse: Matthew 11:28-30
September's Memory Verse: Isaiah 41:10
August's Memory Verse: Ephesians 4:31
July's Memory Verse: I John 5:13
June's Memory Verse: Ephesians 4:25
May's Memory Verse: James 1:2-4
April's Memory Verse: Jeremiah 30:17
March's Memory Verse: James 1:5
February's Memory Verse: John 15:5
January's Memory Verse: Ephesians 3:20-21
December's Memory Verse: Lamentations 3:22-23
November's Memory Verse: 2 Timothy 2:15
October's Memory Verse: Proverbs 16:1-3
September's Memory Verse: Proverbs 17:9
January's Memory Verse: Ephesians 3:20-21
Remember the key is to review review review. Always review the verses you've already memorized along with learning this month's verse.
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: I Cor. 9-11
Old and New Testaments Together: Ezek. 40-41 & 2 Peter 3
Historical: Acts 7-8
Chronological: I Cor. 9-11
Blended: 2 Chron. 25-27 & Luke 9:37-62
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Monday, November 30, 2009
Jehovah Jireh
"But I think it is necessary to send back to you Epaphroditus, my brother, fellow worker and fellow soldier, who is also your messenger, whom you sent to take care of my needs" (Phil 2:25-26).
I got onto the bus with the other delegates attending a workplace conference in South Africa. It was a season in my life in which I had experienced many losses both financially and relationally. God was stripping away the old wineskin and creating a new one. One of the things He was teaching me was that He - not my skills, not my work - was my provider of financial needs during this season of training.
God provided me the means to attend the conference. One day before the registration deadline, a man came to my office and gave me $2500 and told me I was to go. Now, a man had just placed an envelope into my hand. "Here, God says I'm to give this to you. Inside are 10 crisp American $100 bills - $1000!" The man was from Kuwait.
Every believer needs to come to know Christ as their provider. Jehovah Jireh means God is my provider. When God called the Israelites from their place of slavery they had to walk through the desert. There is no way to earn a living in the desert. So God provided manna each day for them. Sometimes He even brought water from rocks. They had to experience a new way of gaining provision that was not rooted in sweat and toil. God had to demonstrate His faithfulness as Jehovah Jireh to His people.
There were times when Paul's tent making business was not the way God would provide for him. God often uses others as His instrument of provision. So, God sent Epaphroditus to take care of Paul's needs.
Do you know God as your provider? Do you have a need? Place your need before the Lord today and ask Him to demonstrate His faithfulness as Jehovah Jireh.
By Os Hillman, taken from "Today God is First"
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: I Cor. 5-8
Old and New Testaments Together: Ezek. 37-39 & 2 Peter 2
Historical: Acts 4-6
Chronological: I Cor. 5-8
Blended: 2 Chron. 23-24 & Luke 9:18-36
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
I got onto the bus with the other delegates attending a workplace conference in South Africa. It was a season in my life in which I had experienced many losses both financially and relationally. God was stripping away the old wineskin and creating a new one. One of the things He was teaching me was that He - not my skills, not my work - was my provider of financial needs during this season of training.
God provided me the means to attend the conference. One day before the registration deadline, a man came to my office and gave me $2500 and told me I was to go. Now, a man had just placed an envelope into my hand. "Here, God says I'm to give this to you. Inside are 10 crisp American $100 bills - $1000!" The man was from Kuwait.
Every believer needs to come to know Christ as their provider. Jehovah Jireh means God is my provider. When God called the Israelites from their place of slavery they had to walk through the desert. There is no way to earn a living in the desert. So God provided manna each day for them. Sometimes He even brought water from rocks. They had to experience a new way of gaining provision that was not rooted in sweat and toil. God had to demonstrate His faithfulness as Jehovah Jireh to His people.
There were times when Paul's tent making business was not the way God would provide for him. God often uses others as His instrument of provision. So, God sent Epaphroditus to take care of Paul's needs.
Do you know God as your provider? Do you have a need? Place your need before the Lord today and ask Him to demonstrate His faithfulness as Jehovah Jireh.
By Os Hillman, taken from "Today God is First"
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: I Cor. 5-8
Old and New Testaments Together: Ezek. 37-39 & 2 Peter 2
Historical: Acts 4-6
Chronological: I Cor. 5-8
Blended: 2 Chron. 23-24 & Luke 9:18-36
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Saturday, November 28, 2009
Weekend Bible Reading
Bible Reading Guide:
Saturday:
Beginning to End: Romans 14-15
Old and New Testaments Together: Ezek. 33-34 & I Peter 5
Historical: Philippians
Chronological: Acts 18:19-19:41
Blended: 2 Chron. 19-20 & Luke 8:26-56
Sunday:
Beginning to End: I Cor. 1-4
Old and New Testaments Together: Ezek. 35-36 & 2 Peter 1
Historical: Acts 1-3
Chronological: I Cor. 1-4
Blended: 2 Chron. 21-22 & Luke 9:1-17
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Saturday:
Beginning to End: Romans 14-15
Old and New Testaments Together: Ezek. 33-34 & I Peter 5
Historical: Philippians
Chronological: Acts 18:19-19:41
Blended: 2 Chron. 19-20 & Luke 8:26-56
Sunday:
Beginning to End: I Cor. 1-4
Old and New Testaments Together: Ezek. 35-36 & 2 Peter 1
Historical: Acts 1-3
Chronological: I Cor. 1-4
Blended: 2 Chron. 21-22 & Luke 9:1-17
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Friday, November 27, 2009
Tears, Then Joyful Harvest
"They that sow in tears shall reap in joy" (Psalm 126:5).
Weeping times are suitable for sowing: we do not want the ground to be too dry. Seed steeped in the tears of earnest anxiety will come up all the sooner. The salt of prayerful tears will give the good seed a flavor which will preserve it from the worm: truth spoken in awful earnestness has a double life about it. Instead of stopping our sowing because of our weeping, let us redouble our efforts because the season is so propitious. Our heavenly seed could not fitly be sown laughing. Deep sorrow and concern for the souls of others are a far more fit accompaniment of godly teaching than anything like levity. We have heard of men who went to war with a light heart, but they were beaten; and it is mostly so with those who sow in the same style. Come, then, my heart, sow on in thy weeping, for thou has the promise of a joyful harvest. Thou shalt reap. Thou, thyself, shalt see some results of thy labor. This shall come to thee in so large a measure as to give thee joy, which a poor, withered, and scanty harvest would not do. When thine eyes are dim with silver tears, think of the golden corn. Bear cheerfully the present toil and disappointment; for the harvest day will fully recompense thee.
By C.H. Spurgeon, taken from "Faith's Checkbook?
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Romans 11-13
Old and New Testaments Together: Ezek. 30-34 & I Peter 4
Historical: Colossians & Philemon
Chronological: I Thessalonians 1-5 & 2 Thessalonians 1-3
Blended: 2 Chron. 17-18 & Luke 8:1-25
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Weeping times are suitable for sowing: we do not want the ground to be too dry. Seed steeped in the tears of earnest anxiety will come up all the sooner. The salt of prayerful tears will give the good seed a flavor which will preserve it from the worm: truth spoken in awful earnestness has a double life about it. Instead of stopping our sowing because of our weeping, let us redouble our efforts because the season is so propitious. Our heavenly seed could not fitly be sown laughing. Deep sorrow and concern for the souls of others are a far more fit accompaniment of godly teaching than anything like levity. We have heard of men who went to war with a light heart, but they were beaten; and it is mostly so with those who sow in the same style. Come, then, my heart, sow on in thy weeping, for thou has the promise of a joyful harvest. Thou shalt reap. Thou, thyself, shalt see some results of thy labor. This shall come to thee in so large a measure as to give thee joy, which a poor, withered, and scanty harvest would not do. When thine eyes are dim with silver tears, think of the golden corn. Bear cheerfully the present toil and disappointment; for the harvest day will fully recompense thee.
By C.H. Spurgeon, taken from "Faith's Checkbook?
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Romans 11-13
Old and New Testaments Together: Ezek. 30-34 & I Peter 4
Historical: Colossians & Philemon
Chronological: I Thessalonians 1-5 & 2 Thessalonians 1-3
Blended: 2 Chron. 17-18 & Luke 8:1-25
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Thanksgiving: The Forgotten Holiday
"Do not cease giving thanks . . . " Ephesians 1:16 a
Sandwiched somewhere between Halloween and Christmas is a Thursday holiday that is slowly becoming more miniscule in the minds of millions of Americans – Thanksgiving. If you search hard, you might find one small section of Thanksgiving cards, autumn decorations, and a turkey platter amid the aisles and miles of Halloween costumes, Christmas decorations, and toys.
For some, Thanksgiving is a day to get a list together prior to a day of marathon Christmas shopping. Somehow our perception of Thanksgiving Day has gone askew. We've forgotten the reason for celebration that first Thanksgiving. Gratitude for survival!
Historically we think of Thanksgiving as a time of feasting for the Pilgrims and Indians. In the fall of 1621, the Pilgrims had been in America less than a year. During those months, over half their original population died from disease or starvation. The Pilgrims hosted the first feast not to try out their latest recipes, but to celebrate life with their Indian friends and give thanks to God for His provision in difficult circumstances.
Perhaps you'd like to redirect your family toward gratitude this year. Just as many enlist the help of an advent wreath to prepare for the celebration of Jesus' birth in December, focus on thanks-giving this November by doing the following:
• Write Bible verses that name the attributes of God on fruit-shaped cut-outs. Place them in a basket or cornucopia. During a time of family devotions or at a meal, have each family member select a fruit from the basket and read the verse aloud. Then discuss ways your family has experienced each of God's qualities.
• Think about reasons for ingratitude. Most of us are incredibly blessed, yet we find reasons to complain. This week, any time family members complain about something, have them place money in a jar. Your family can decide the amount. Then at the end of the week, donate the money to the soup kitchen or mobile meals to help with Thanksgiving meals.
• Think of someone you love and appreciate, but rarely see. Make plans to call, send a card, or visit that person. Find out if there is a special need, pray with the person, and provide materially or with an act of service.
• Focus on praising God. Let each family member select a praise chorus or hymn. Sing a different one at each meal instead of saying a blessing. Thank God for material provision, physical health, spiritual blessings, our country, our church, and family.
These are just a few ideas to help you get started. Use your creativity to come up with others and enjoy making Thanksgiving a holiday to remember.
By Candy Arrington, taken from CBN.com
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Romans 8-10
Old and New Testaments Together: Ezek. 27-29 & I Peter 3
Historical: Eph. 4-6
Chronological: Acts 17-18:18
Blended: 2 Chron. 15-16 & Luke 7:31-50
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Sandwiched somewhere between Halloween and Christmas is a Thursday holiday that is slowly becoming more miniscule in the minds of millions of Americans – Thanksgiving. If you search hard, you might find one small section of Thanksgiving cards, autumn decorations, and a turkey platter amid the aisles and miles of Halloween costumes, Christmas decorations, and toys.
For some, Thanksgiving is a day to get a list together prior to a day of marathon Christmas shopping. Somehow our perception of Thanksgiving Day has gone askew. We've forgotten the reason for celebration that first Thanksgiving. Gratitude for survival!
Historically we think of Thanksgiving as a time of feasting for the Pilgrims and Indians. In the fall of 1621, the Pilgrims had been in America less than a year. During those months, over half their original population died from disease or starvation. The Pilgrims hosted the first feast not to try out their latest recipes, but to celebrate life with their Indian friends and give thanks to God for His provision in difficult circumstances.
Perhaps you'd like to redirect your family toward gratitude this year. Just as many enlist the help of an advent wreath to prepare for the celebration of Jesus' birth in December, focus on thanks-giving this November by doing the following:
• Write Bible verses that name the attributes of God on fruit-shaped cut-outs. Place them in a basket or cornucopia. During a time of family devotions or at a meal, have each family member select a fruit from the basket and read the verse aloud. Then discuss ways your family has experienced each of God's qualities.
• Think about reasons for ingratitude. Most of us are incredibly blessed, yet we find reasons to complain. This week, any time family members complain about something, have them place money in a jar. Your family can decide the amount. Then at the end of the week, donate the money to the soup kitchen or mobile meals to help with Thanksgiving meals.
• Think of someone you love and appreciate, but rarely see. Make plans to call, send a card, or visit that person. Find out if there is a special need, pray with the person, and provide materially or with an act of service.
• Focus on praising God. Let each family member select a praise chorus or hymn. Sing a different one at each meal instead of saying a blessing. Thank God for material provision, physical health, spiritual blessings, our country, our church, and family.
These are just a few ideas to help you get started. Use your creativity to come up with others and enjoy making Thanksgiving a holiday to remember.
By Candy Arrington, taken from CBN.com
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Romans 8-10
Old and New Testaments Together: Ezek. 27-29 & I Peter 3
Historical: Eph. 4-6
Chronological: Acts 17-18:18
Blended: 2 Chron. 15-16 & Luke 7:31-50
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
A Fresh Vision
"In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw the lord seated on a throne, high and exalted, and the train of his robe filled the temple." Isaiah 6:1
At the time of today's Scripture, King Uzziah had died. Changes in leadership often bring uncertainty, concern and confusion. Isaiah felt the king's death keenly, for not only was Uzziah his king, he was a dear friend.
Isaiah went to the temple, and there he was transformed! God knew that what Isaiah needed at this time of crisis was a new focus, a fresh vision of the Lord. There is the temple Isaiah saw the lOrd in all His glory, perhaps a manifestation of the pre-incarnate Christ.
As he gazed in rapt worship, the glory of God was revealed to him. He saw the Lord on His throne, reigning in all His majesty and power. There was no need to fear the future, for God was still on His throne. He was in control. The occupant of the earthy throne had changed; but God's throne is eternal, occupied by the one who said, "I the Lord do not change" (Malachi 3:6). Earthly events do not change God.
After Isaiah's perspective changed, he was never the same again. Our need, too, may be to shift our focus from people, possessions, and problems to a fresh vision of the Lord.
By Millie Stamm, taken from "Women's Devotional Bible"
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Romans 4-7
Old and New Testaments Together: Ezek. 24-26 & I Peter 2
Historical: Eph. 1-3
Chronological: Gal. 4-6
Blended: 2 Chron. 13-14 & Luke 7:1-30
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
At the time of today's Scripture, King Uzziah had died. Changes in leadership often bring uncertainty, concern and confusion. Isaiah felt the king's death keenly, for not only was Uzziah his king, he was a dear friend.
Isaiah went to the temple, and there he was transformed! God knew that what Isaiah needed at this time of crisis was a new focus, a fresh vision of the Lord. There is the temple Isaiah saw the lOrd in all His glory, perhaps a manifestation of the pre-incarnate Christ.
As he gazed in rapt worship, the glory of God was revealed to him. He saw the Lord on His throne, reigning in all His majesty and power. There was no need to fear the future, for God was still on His throne. He was in control. The occupant of the earthy throne had changed; but God's throne is eternal, occupied by the one who said, "I the Lord do not change" (Malachi 3:6). Earthly events do not change God.
After Isaiah's perspective changed, he was never the same again. Our need, too, may be to shift our focus from people, possessions, and problems to a fresh vision of the Lord.
By Millie Stamm, taken from "Women's Devotional Bible"
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Romans 4-7
Old and New Testaments Together: Ezek. 24-26 & I Peter 2
Historical: Eph. 1-3
Chronological: Gal. 4-6
Blended: 2 Chron. 13-14 & Luke 7:1-30
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
God Cares About You
"Look at the birds in the air. They don't plant or harvest or store food in barns, but your heavenly Father feeds them." Matthew 6:26
Consider the earth! Our globe's weight has been estimated at six sextillion tons (a six with twenty-one zeros). Yet is is precisely tilted at twenty-three degrees; and more or any less and our seasons would be lost in a melted polar flood. Though our globe revolves at the rate of one-thousand miles per hour or twenty-five thousands miles per day or nine million miles per year, none of us tumbles into orbit . . . .
As you stand . . . observing God's workmanship, let me pose a few questions. If He is able to pace the stars in their sockets and suspend the sky like a curtain, do you think it is remotely possible that god is able to guide your life? If your God is mighty enough to ignite the sun, could it be that He is mighty enough to light your path? If He cares enough about the planet Saturn to give it rings or Venus to make it sparkle, is there an outside chance that He cares enough about you to meet your needs? - The Great House of God
By Max Lucado, taken from "Grace For The Moment"
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Romans 1-3
Old and New Testaments Together: Ezek. 22-23 & I Peter 1
Historical: Luke 23-24
Chronological: Gal. 1-3
Blended: 2 Chron. 10-12 & Luke 6:27-49
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Consider the earth! Our globe's weight has been estimated at six sextillion tons (a six with twenty-one zeros). Yet is is precisely tilted at twenty-three degrees; and more or any less and our seasons would be lost in a melted polar flood. Though our globe revolves at the rate of one-thousand miles per hour or twenty-five thousands miles per day or nine million miles per year, none of us tumbles into orbit . . . .
As you stand . . . observing God's workmanship, let me pose a few questions. If He is able to pace the stars in their sockets and suspend the sky like a curtain, do you think it is remotely possible that god is able to guide your life? If your God is mighty enough to ignite the sun, could it be that He is mighty enough to light your path? If He cares enough about the planet Saturn to give it rings or Venus to make it sparkle, is there an outside chance that He cares enough about you to meet your needs? - The Great House of God
By Max Lucado, taken from "Grace For The Moment"
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Romans 1-3
Old and New Testaments Together: Ezek. 22-23 & I Peter 1
Historical: Luke 23-24
Chronological: Gal. 1-3
Blended: 2 Chron. 10-12 & Luke 6:27-49
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Monday, November 23, 2009
"For the Sake of My Name
In Ezekiel chapter 20 I came across a reoccurring theme. In 4 verses God says, "For the sake of My name."
20:9, "But I acted for the sake of My name, that it should not be profaned in the sight of the nations among whom they lived, in whose sight I made Myself known to them by bringing them out of the land of Egypt."
20:14, "But I acted for the sake of My name, that it should not be profaned in the sight of the nations, before whose sight I had brought them out."
20:22, "But I withdrew My hand and acted for the sake of My name, that it should not be profaned in the sight of the nations in whose sight I had brought them out."
20:44, "Then you will know that I am the Lord when I have dealt with you for My name's sake, not according to your evil ways or according to your corrupt deeds, O house of Israel," declares the Lord God."
My study notes say of verse 9, "Name and person are closely connected in the bible. God's name is His identity and reputation - that by which He is known. The phrase used here is equivalent to "for My own sake". God's acts of deliverance - past and future - identify Him, revealing His true nature."
I think about how as Believers we have God's name stamped within our being. We are therefore reflecting who He is and what we do impacts that reflection.
In the Ezekiel passage we read that God is passing judgement upon Israel for their sin. Sin committed by following other gods, and worshiping idols from the nations they live near. Those nations know that God's hand was upon the Israelites by what He did for them when they left Egypt. They knew the nation was a Godly nation. And yet, God's name and reputation were being tarnished by how the Israelites were acting. They were not showing God in a good light. We see that God is bring punishment down upon them to save His name from further ruin. Yet, in all this, because of His name, He does want to keep some of the nation alive.
When we act in a way that reflects more sin then God, we have a problem on our hands. We are tarnishing God's name and not being a good example to those who don't know Him. God's command to us is, "I am the Lord your God; walk in My statutes and keep My ordinances and observe them. Sanctify My Sabbaths; and they shall be a sign between Me and you that you may know that I am the Lord your God." Ezekiel 20:19-20. We do all those things so that others may know God by what they seen in us.
I think about my devotional thought this morning about how God's hand can reach down from heaven to touch a life. But in most cases He uses the touch of human hands for His purpose. "He uses those who are the nearest by to lend a helping hand, to comfort, to lift from despair, to stroke the fevered brow of discontent. For how can that discouraged and fretful soul experience the Love of God except through the love of one who is beside Him ready to love. How can that disheartened and downcast should feel the touch of encouragement and peace except by the touch of the closet hand reaching out in a tender concern. It may be a friend or a stranger, but God uses hands which are consecrated to Him for touching lives. You may say that it is only another human being. But what is meant by God if it is not Love?" - Streams in the Desert Vol. 2
In linking my Bible reading to my devotional thought I see that it's vital that if God is living within us that we do our best to reflect Him in the best light. We do that through our actions, speech and reactions. When we observe all that God calls us to observe and maintain a close relationship with Him, then He is able to use us to touch the lives of those in need.
What are you doing for His name?
Krista Jones
9.5.08
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Acts 27-28
Old and New Testaments Together: Ezek. 20-21 & James 5
Historical: Luke 21-22
Chronological: Acts 15-16
Blended: 2 Chron. 7-9 & Luke 6:1-26
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
20:9, "But I acted for the sake of My name, that it should not be profaned in the sight of the nations among whom they lived, in whose sight I made Myself known to them by bringing them out of the land of Egypt."
20:14, "But I acted for the sake of My name, that it should not be profaned in the sight of the nations, before whose sight I had brought them out."
20:22, "But I withdrew My hand and acted for the sake of My name, that it should not be profaned in the sight of the nations in whose sight I had brought them out."
20:44, "Then you will know that I am the Lord when I have dealt with you for My name's sake, not according to your evil ways or according to your corrupt deeds, O house of Israel," declares the Lord God."
My study notes say of verse 9, "Name and person are closely connected in the bible. God's name is His identity and reputation - that by which He is known. The phrase used here is equivalent to "for My own sake". God's acts of deliverance - past and future - identify Him, revealing His true nature."
I think about how as Believers we have God's name stamped within our being. We are therefore reflecting who He is and what we do impacts that reflection.
In the Ezekiel passage we read that God is passing judgement upon Israel for their sin. Sin committed by following other gods, and worshiping idols from the nations they live near. Those nations know that God's hand was upon the Israelites by what He did for them when they left Egypt. They knew the nation was a Godly nation. And yet, God's name and reputation were being tarnished by how the Israelites were acting. They were not showing God in a good light. We see that God is bring punishment down upon them to save His name from further ruin. Yet, in all this, because of His name, He does want to keep some of the nation alive.
When we act in a way that reflects more sin then God, we have a problem on our hands. We are tarnishing God's name and not being a good example to those who don't know Him. God's command to us is, "I am the Lord your God; walk in My statutes and keep My ordinances and observe them. Sanctify My Sabbaths; and they shall be a sign between Me and you that you may know that I am the Lord your God." Ezekiel 20:19-20. We do all those things so that others may know God by what they seen in us.
I think about my devotional thought this morning about how God's hand can reach down from heaven to touch a life. But in most cases He uses the touch of human hands for His purpose. "He uses those who are the nearest by to lend a helping hand, to comfort, to lift from despair, to stroke the fevered brow of discontent. For how can that discouraged and fretful soul experience the Love of God except through the love of one who is beside Him ready to love. How can that disheartened and downcast should feel the touch of encouragement and peace except by the touch of the closet hand reaching out in a tender concern. It may be a friend or a stranger, but God uses hands which are consecrated to Him for touching lives. You may say that it is only another human being. But what is meant by God if it is not Love?" - Streams in the Desert Vol. 2
In linking my Bible reading to my devotional thought I see that it's vital that if God is living within us that we do our best to reflect Him in the best light. We do that through our actions, speech and reactions. When we observe all that God calls us to observe and maintain a close relationship with Him, then He is able to use us to touch the lives of those in need.
What are you doing for His name?
Krista Jones
9.5.08
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Acts 27-28
Old and New Testaments Together: Ezek. 20-21 & James 5
Historical: Luke 21-22
Chronological: Acts 15-16
Blended: 2 Chron. 7-9 & Luke 6:1-26
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Saturday, November 21, 2009
Weekend Bible Reading
Bible Reading Guide:
Saturday:
Beginning to End: Acts 21-23
Old and New Testaments Together: Ezek. 16-17 & James 3
Historical: Luke 17-18
Chronological: Acts 13-14
Blended: 2 Chron. 1-3 & Luke 5:1-16
Sunday:
Beginning to End: Acts 24-26
Old and New Testaments Together: Ezek. 18-19 & James 4
Historical: Luke 19-20
Chronological: James 1-5
Blended: 2 Chron. 4-6 & Luke 5:17-39
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Saturday:
Beginning to End: Acts 21-23
Old and New Testaments Together: Ezek. 16-17 & James 3
Historical: Luke 17-18
Chronological: Acts 13-14
Blended: 2 Chron. 1-3 & Luke 5:1-16
Sunday:
Beginning to End: Acts 24-26
Old and New Testaments Together: Ezek. 18-19 & James 4
Historical: Luke 19-20
Chronological: James 1-5
Blended: 2 Chron. 4-6 & Luke 5:17-39
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Friday, November 20, 2009
God Listens
"Open up before God, keep nothing back; He'll do whatever needs to be done." Psalm 37:5 - The Message
We live in a noisy world. We are yelled at, promoted, called. Everyone has an urgent message for us. we are surrounded with noise; telephone, radio, television, stereo. Messages re amplified deafeningly. The world is a mob in which everyone is talking at once and no one is willing or able to listen. But God listens. He not only speaks to us, He listens to us. His listening to us is an even greater marvel than His speaking to us. It is rare to find anyone who listens carefully and thoroughly . . .
WHen it happens we know that what we say and feel are immensely important. We acquire dignity. We never know how well we think or speak until we find someone who listens. - Reversed Thunder
By Eugene H. Peterson, taken from "God's Message for Each Day"
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Acts 18-20
Old and New Testaments Together: Ezek. 14-15 & James 2
Historical: Luke 14-16
Chronological: Acts 11-12
Blended: I Chron. 28-29 & Luke 4:31-44
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
We live in a noisy world. We are yelled at, promoted, called. Everyone has an urgent message for us. we are surrounded with noise; telephone, radio, television, stereo. Messages re amplified deafeningly. The world is a mob in which everyone is talking at once and no one is willing or able to listen. But God listens. He not only speaks to us, He listens to us. His listening to us is an even greater marvel than His speaking to us. It is rare to find anyone who listens carefully and thoroughly . . .
WHen it happens we know that what we say and feel are immensely important. We acquire dignity. We never know how well we think or speak until we find someone who listens. - Reversed Thunder
By Eugene H. Peterson, taken from "God's Message for Each Day"
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Acts 18-20
Old and New Testaments Together: Ezek. 14-15 & James 2
Historical: Luke 14-16
Chronological: Acts 11-12
Blended: I Chron. 28-29 & Luke 4:31-44
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Thursday, November 19, 2009
How To Help Those Who Hurt
"Now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love." 1 Corinthians 13:13
When I have asked suffering people, “Who helped you?” not one person has mentioned a PhD from a prestigious seminary or a famous philosopher. All of us have the same capacity to help those who hurt.
No one can package or bottle the “appropriate” response to suffering. If you go to the sufferers themselves, some will recall a friend who cheerily helped distract them from their illness. Others think such an approach insulting. Some want honest, straightforward talk; others find such discussion unbearably depressing.
There is no magic cure for a person in pain. Mainly, such a person needs love, for love instinctively detects what is needed. Jean Vanier, who founded the L’Arche movement for the developmentally disabled, says: “Wounded people who have been broken by suffering and sickness ask for only one thing: a heart that loves and commits itself to them, a heart full of hope for them.”
Such a love may be painful for us. But real love, the apostle Paul reminds us, “Bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things” (1 Cor. 13:7).
As is so often His pattern, God uses very ordinary people to bring about His healing. Those who suffer don’t need our knowledge and wisdom, they need our love. — Philip Yancey
O brother man, fold to thy heart thy brother!
Where pity dwells, the peace of God is there;
To worship rightly is to love each other,
Each smile a hymn, each kindly deed a prayer. —Whittier
They do not truly love who do not show their love. —Shakespeare
Taken from "Our Daily Bread"
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Acts 16-17
Old and New Testaments Together: Ezek. 11-13 & James 1
Historical: Luke 12-13
Chronological: Acts 9-10
Blended: I Chron. 25-27 & Luke 4:1-30
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
When I have asked suffering people, “Who helped you?” not one person has mentioned a PhD from a prestigious seminary or a famous philosopher. All of us have the same capacity to help those who hurt.
No one can package or bottle the “appropriate” response to suffering. If you go to the sufferers themselves, some will recall a friend who cheerily helped distract them from their illness. Others think such an approach insulting. Some want honest, straightforward talk; others find such discussion unbearably depressing.
There is no magic cure for a person in pain. Mainly, such a person needs love, for love instinctively detects what is needed. Jean Vanier, who founded the L’Arche movement for the developmentally disabled, says: “Wounded people who have been broken by suffering and sickness ask for only one thing: a heart that loves and commits itself to them, a heart full of hope for them.”
Such a love may be painful for us. But real love, the apostle Paul reminds us, “Bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things” (1 Cor. 13:7).
As is so often His pattern, God uses very ordinary people to bring about His healing. Those who suffer don’t need our knowledge and wisdom, they need our love. — Philip Yancey
O brother man, fold to thy heart thy brother!
Where pity dwells, the peace of God is there;
To worship rightly is to love each other,
Each smile a hymn, each kindly deed a prayer. —Whittier
They do not truly love who do not show their love. —Shakespeare
Taken from "Our Daily Bread"
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Acts 16-17
Old and New Testaments Together: Ezek. 11-13 & James 1
Historical: Luke 12-13
Chronological: Acts 9-10
Blended: I Chron. 25-27 & Luke 4:1-30
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Coming Signs of Persecution
"Come," they say, "let us destroy them as a nation, that the name of Israel be remembered no more" (Ps 83:4).
God calls us to know the signs of the times. The final end time conflict will arise when nations of the world will come against Israel. The Bible is clear that Jesus will return to the physical place of Jerusalem to collect His bride, represented as all those who believe and trust in Jesus, the Messiah. "Let us rejoice and be glad and give him glory! For the wedding of the Lamb has come, and his bride has made herself ready" (Rev 19:7). "I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband" (Rev 21:2).
Israel will always be a place of conflict in the world because Satan knows that this is the place Jesus must come back to in order to collect His bride. And when Jesus does that, it will be the end of Satan's influence on the earth through anti-Christ nations. But until Jesus returns, the land of Jerusalem will be in a tug of war among the nations.
There is a growing intolerance in the world for anyone who has a belief system in absolutes. Christians will be viewed as rigid, inflexible and intolerant of other faiths. There will be a season of political moderate philosophy among many nations and individuals. This moderate philosophy will even happen among Christians, Muslims, and political groups. This will open the door to the influence of the antichrist to come against any group believing in absolutes.
A growing trend of anti-Semitism and persecution will emerge against Jews and committed Christians. Christians will be called to stand with our brothers and sisters in Israel. When this happens it will be one of the reasons Jews will believe in the Messiah.
There has been a season of peace for followers of Christ in the western, European and Asian world. But know that a season of persecution is to come. "However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name" (1 Peter 4:16-17).
Pray that you will be faithful.
By Os Hillman, taken from "Today God Is First"
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Acts 14-15
Old and New Testaments Together: Ezek. 8-10 & Hebrews 13
Historical: Luke 10-11
Chronological: Acts 7-8
Blended: I Chron. 22-245 & Luke 3
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
God calls us to know the signs of the times. The final end time conflict will arise when nations of the world will come against Israel. The Bible is clear that Jesus will return to the physical place of Jerusalem to collect His bride, represented as all those who believe and trust in Jesus, the Messiah. "Let us rejoice and be glad and give him glory! For the wedding of the Lamb has come, and his bride has made herself ready" (Rev 19:7). "I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband" (Rev 21:2).
Israel will always be a place of conflict in the world because Satan knows that this is the place Jesus must come back to in order to collect His bride. And when Jesus does that, it will be the end of Satan's influence on the earth through anti-Christ nations. But until Jesus returns, the land of Jerusalem will be in a tug of war among the nations.
There is a growing intolerance in the world for anyone who has a belief system in absolutes. Christians will be viewed as rigid, inflexible and intolerant of other faiths. There will be a season of political moderate philosophy among many nations and individuals. This moderate philosophy will even happen among Christians, Muslims, and political groups. This will open the door to the influence of the antichrist to come against any group believing in absolutes.
A growing trend of anti-Semitism and persecution will emerge against Jews and committed Christians. Christians will be called to stand with our brothers and sisters in Israel. When this happens it will be one of the reasons Jews will believe in the Messiah.
There has been a season of peace for followers of Christ in the western, European and Asian world. But know that a season of persecution is to come. "However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name" (1 Peter 4:16-17).
Pray that you will be faithful.
By Os Hillman, taken from "Today God Is First"
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Acts 14-15
Old and New Testaments Together: Ezek. 8-10 & Hebrews 13
Historical: Luke 10-11
Chronological: Acts 7-8
Blended: I Chron. 22-245 & Luke 3
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Commitment in Adversity
"But Ruth replied, 'Don't urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God. Where you die I will die, and there I will be buried. May the Lord deal with me, be it ever so severely, if anything but death separates you and me.'" Ruth 1:16-17
When I made a commitment to marry a preacher, it was with joy, excitement and the dream of serving God with all my heart. Up to that point, I had experienced good health, success, achievement, praise and gratitude. I had ever reason to expect that a life of ministry would mean more of the same - plus greater joy and usefulness. I was not prepared for serious and debilitating illness, the miscarriage of a baby, the trauma of financially troubled church and personal attacks from the family of faith.
Within one of my husband's sermons, I found a nugget of hope: "Our adversities are God's universities." The adversities drove me to God, and God had what I needed to endure and fulfill the commitment I had made.
In Ruth 1:16-17 the innocent young widow Ruth expressed her passionate and devoted love for her old and bitter mother-in-law. It was not Naomi's beauty, wealth or even joyfulness that drew Ruth to her, for all of these had long since fallen away. Rather it was Naomi's faith in the living God, her spiritual wisdom and her consistent piety that bound the young pagan widow to her. Ruth made a commitment to travel, live and pursue life with Naomi, to accept her God and even to die and be buried in Naomi's homeland. Her commitment was not just with loving words and well-meaning feelings, as her sister-in-law Orpah (Ruth 1:14), but with purposeful love and devoted deeds.
Commitment must be fueled not merely by head knowledge but also by heart determination. Ruth had nothing to offer to Naomi or to God but herself, and that she have willingly and eagerly. Every woman, whatever her circumstances or position, has at least that to give the Savior, and it is enough!
By Dorothy Patterson, taken from "Women's Devotional Bible 2"
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Acts 11-13
Old and New Testaments Together: Ezek. 5-7 & Hebrews 12
Historical: Luke 8-9
Chronological: Acts 4-6
Blended: I Chron. 19-21 & Luke 2:25-52
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
When I made a commitment to marry a preacher, it was with joy, excitement and the dream of serving God with all my heart. Up to that point, I had experienced good health, success, achievement, praise and gratitude. I had ever reason to expect that a life of ministry would mean more of the same - plus greater joy and usefulness. I was not prepared for serious and debilitating illness, the miscarriage of a baby, the trauma of financially troubled church and personal attacks from the family of faith.
Within one of my husband's sermons, I found a nugget of hope: "Our adversities are God's universities." The adversities drove me to God, and God had what I needed to endure and fulfill the commitment I had made.
In Ruth 1:16-17 the innocent young widow Ruth expressed her passionate and devoted love for her old and bitter mother-in-law. It was not Naomi's beauty, wealth or even joyfulness that drew Ruth to her, for all of these had long since fallen away. Rather it was Naomi's faith in the living God, her spiritual wisdom and her consistent piety that bound the young pagan widow to her. Ruth made a commitment to travel, live and pursue life with Naomi, to accept her God and even to die and be buried in Naomi's homeland. Her commitment was not just with loving words and well-meaning feelings, as her sister-in-law Orpah (Ruth 1:14), but with purposeful love and devoted deeds.
Commitment must be fueled not merely by head knowledge but also by heart determination. Ruth had nothing to offer to Naomi or to God but herself, and that she have willingly and eagerly. Every woman, whatever her circumstances or position, has at least that to give the Savior, and it is enough!
By Dorothy Patterson, taken from "Women's Devotional Bible 2"
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Acts 11-13
Old and New Testaments Together: Ezek. 5-7 & Hebrews 12
Historical: Luke 8-9
Chronological: Acts 4-6
Blended: I Chron. 19-21 & Luke 2:25-52
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Monday, November 16, 2009
Lessons on Love
Ezekiel 15 is all about Jerusalem being like a useless vine. I instantly think of John 15 when I think of vines. Jerusalem was a useless vine that produced bad fruit. We are told in John 15 that we are to abide in the Lord because if we don't we really are nothing. Just like Jerusalem was in Ezekiel's time. He said because they were useless that He would cast them into the fire to be burned up. John 15:6 says, "If anyone does not abide in Me, he is thrown away as a branch and dries up; and they gather them, and cast them into the fire and they are burned."
The rest of the John 15 talks about abiding the the Lord and His love. John 15:12 says, "This is My commandment, that you love one another, just as I have loved you."
This verse ties into my morning devotional about love. I like what the 1st sentence says, "The great business of a true Christian life is to learn to love." WOW. As God's vine we know that if we abide in Him we know that we are to love one another. And honestly, I haven't done that these past few years. Sure, I love most people but those who rub me wrong get conditional love. I am really judgemental in giving my love away. If someone annoys me or hurts me I recoil my love.
I've spent the past few weeks praying about myself and what God wants to change in me. I know the first lesson He has taught/continues to teach me is that I need to diligently seek Him and His approval alone. I'm getting the feeling that learning to love is another lesson. It ties in with forgiving and letting go.
I will let my devotional speak for me:
"Life with all its experiences is just our chance of learning love. The lesson is set for us - 'Thou shalt love;' 'As I have loved you, that ye also love one another.' Our one thing is to master this lesson. We are not in this world to get rich, to gain power, to become learned in the arts and sciences, to build up a great business, or to do large things in any line. We are not here to get along in our daily work, in our shops, or schools, or homes, or on our farms. we are not here to preach the gospel, to comfort sorrow, to visit the sick and to perform deeds of charity. All of these, or any of these, may be among our duties, and they may fill our hands; but in all our occupations the real business of life, that which we are always to strive to do, the work which must go on in all our experiences, if we grasp life's true meaning at all, is to learn to love, and to grow loving in disposition and character.
We may learn the finest arts of life - music, painting, sculpture, poetry, or many master the noblest sciences, or by means of reading, study, travel, and converse with refined people, may attain the best culture; but if in all this we do not learn to love, and become more gentle in spirit and act, we have missed the prize of living. If in the midst of all our duties, cares, trials, joys, sorrows, we are not day by day growing in sweetness, in gentleness, in unselfishness, in thoughtfulness, and in all the branches of love, we are not learning the great lesson set for us by our Master in this school of life." - J. R. Miller, taken from Streams in the Desert Vol. 2
Hard for me to grasp and understand that what I thought I've been doing isn't what I have been doing. So continues the lessons I am to learn . . . . Abiding in the Lord and learning to love.
Krista Jones
9.2.08
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Acts 9-10
Old and New Testaments Together: Ezek. 3-4 & Hebrews 11:20-40
Historical: Luke 6-7
Chronological: Acts 1-3
Blended: I Chron. 16-18 & Luke 2:1-24
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
The rest of the John 15 talks about abiding the the Lord and His love. John 15:12 says, "This is My commandment, that you love one another, just as I have loved you."
This verse ties into my morning devotional about love. I like what the 1st sentence says, "The great business of a true Christian life is to learn to love." WOW. As God's vine we know that if we abide in Him we know that we are to love one another. And honestly, I haven't done that these past few years. Sure, I love most people but those who rub me wrong get conditional love. I am really judgemental in giving my love away. If someone annoys me or hurts me I recoil my love.
I've spent the past few weeks praying about myself and what God wants to change in me. I know the first lesson He has taught/continues to teach me is that I need to diligently seek Him and His approval alone. I'm getting the feeling that learning to love is another lesson. It ties in with forgiving and letting go.
I will let my devotional speak for me:
"Life with all its experiences is just our chance of learning love. The lesson is set for us - 'Thou shalt love;' 'As I have loved you, that ye also love one another.' Our one thing is to master this lesson. We are not in this world to get rich, to gain power, to become learned in the arts and sciences, to build up a great business, or to do large things in any line. We are not here to get along in our daily work, in our shops, or schools, or homes, or on our farms. we are not here to preach the gospel, to comfort sorrow, to visit the sick and to perform deeds of charity. All of these, or any of these, may be among our duties, and they may fill our hands; but in all our occupations the real business of life, that which we are always to strive to do, the work which must go on in all our experiences, if we grasp life's true meaning at all, is to learn to love, and to grow loving in disposition and character.
We may learn the finest arts of life - music, painting, sculpture, poetry, or many master the noblest sciences, or by means of reading, study, travel, and converse with refined people, may attain the best culture; but if in all this we do not learn to love, and become more gentle in spirit and act, we have missed the prize of living. If in the midst of all our duties, cares, trials, joys, sorrows, we are not day by day growing in sweetness, in gentleness, in unselfishness, in thoughtfulness, and in all the branches of love, we are not learning the great lesson set for us by our Master in this school of life." - J. R. Miller, taken from Streams in the Desert Vol. 2
Hard for me to grasp and understand that what I thought I've been doing isn't what I have been doing. So continues the lessons I am to learn . . . . Abiding in the Lord and learning to love.
Krista Jones
9.2.08
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Acts 9-10
Old and New Testaments Together: Ezek. 3-4 & Hebrews 11:20-40
Historical: Luke 6-7
Chronological: Acts 1-3
Blended: I Chron. 16-18 & Luke 2:1-24
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Saturday, November 14, 2009
Weekend Bible Reading
Bible Reading Guide:
Saturday:
Beginning to End: Acts 4-6
Old and New Testaments Together: Lam. 1-2 & Hebrews 10:19-39
Historical: Luke 2-3
Chronological: Matthew 28 & Mark 16
Blended: I Chron. 10-12 & Luke 1:39-56
Sunday:
Beginning to End: Acts 7-8
Old and New Testaments Together: Ezek. 1-2 & Hebrews 11:1-19
Historical: Luke 4-5
Chronological: Luke 24 & John 20-21
Blended: I Chron. 13-15 & Luke 1:57-80
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Saturday:
Beginning to End: Acts 4-6
Old and New Testaments Together: Lam. 1-2 & Hebrews 10:19-39
Historical: Luke 2-3
Chronological: Matthew 28 & Mark 16
Blended: I Chron. 10-12 & Luke 1:39-56
Sunday:
Beginning to End: Acts 7-8
Old and New Testaments Together: Ezek. 1-2 & Hebrews 11:1-19
Historical: Luke 4-5
Chronological: Luke 24 & John 20-21
Blended: I Chron. 13-15 & Luke 1:57-80
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Friday, November 13, 2009
God's Multiplication Table
"A little one shall become a thousand, and a small one a strong nation: I the LORD will hasten it in his time" (Isaiah 60:22).
Works for the LORD often begin on a small scale, and they are none the worse for this. Feebleness educates faith, brings God near, and wins glory for His name. Prize promises of increase! Mustard seed is the smallest among seeds, and yet it becomes a treelike plant, with branches which lodge the birds of heaven. We may begin with one, and that "a little one," and yet it will "become a thousand." The LORD is great at the multiplication table. How often did He say to His lone servant, "I will multiply thee!" Trust in the LORD, ye ones and twos; for He will be in the midst of you if you are gathered in His name. "A small one." What can be more despicable in the eyes of those who count heads and weigh forces! Yet this is the nucleus of a great nation. Only one star shines out at first in the evening, but soon the sky is crowded with countless lights. Nor need we think the prospect of increase to be remote, for the promise is, "I Jehovah will hasten it in his time." There will be no premature haste, like that which we see at excited meetings; it will be all in due time, but yet there will be no delay. When the LORD hastens, His speed is glorious.
By C.H. Spurgeon, taken from "Faith's Checkbook"
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Acts 1-3
Old and New Testaments Together: Lam. 1-2 & Hebrews 10:1-18
Historical: Luke 1
Chronological: Luke 23 & John 18-19
Blended: I Chron. 7-9 & Luke 1:21-38
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Works for the LORD often begin on a small scale, and they are none the worse for this. Feebleness educates faith, brings God near, and wins glory for His name. Prize promises of increase! Mustard seed is the smallest among seeds, and yet it becomes a treelike plant, with branches which lodge the birds of heaven. We may begin with one, and that "a little one," and yet it will "become a thousand." The LORD is great at the multiplication table. How often did He say to His lone servant, "I will multiply thee!" Trust in the LORD, ye ones and twos; for He will be in the midst of you if you are gathered in His name. "A small one." What can be more despicable in the eyes of those who count heads and weigh forces! Yet this is the nucleus of a great nation. Only one star shines out at first in the evening, but soon the sky is crowded with countless lights. Nor need we think the prospect of increase to be remote, for the promise is, "I Jehovah will hasten it in his time." There will be no premature haste, like that which we see at excited meetings; it will be all in due time, but yet there will be no delay. When the LORD hastens, His speed is glorious.
By C.H. Spurgeon, taken from "Faith's Checkbook"
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Acts 1-3
Old and New Testaments Together: Lam. 1-2 & Hebrews 10:1-18
Historical: Luke 1
Chronological: Luke 23 & John 18-19
Blended: I Chron. 7-9 & Luke 1:21-38
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Fix Your Eyes on Jesus!
"Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith." Hebrews 12:2
Every man has some contribution to make to your life if you know how to receive it; certain men will astonish you with their ability to answer your unexpressed question and tell you what is in your heart. But never attach yourself to any man as a parasite. Adopt no man as a guru. Apart from the inspired writers of Holy Scriptures no man is worthy of such confidence. The sweetest saint can be mistaken.
I repeat, never let any man become necessary to you. Christ alone is necessary. Apart from Him we are completely wretched; without Him we cannot live and dare not die. Our need of Him is real and vital and will outlast time and go on into eternity. That deep and desperate need is met by Christ so completely that when we have Him we need no one else. We may receive help from our fellow Christians as they from us, but our need for them is relative and fleeting. Let anyone become spiritually indispensable to us and we have deserted the Rock to build on shifting sand.
It requires deep consecration, I admit, and complete detachment from earthly interests to reach such a place of independence. And it is only after we become completely dependent upon God that we can walk without leaning on men. It takes much prayer and quiet contemplation to maintain the nice balance that will permit us to receive help from our fellow Christians and at the same time be sweetly independent of them. But we should not despair; it is not beyond the possibilities of grace. Not even for such weak Christians as we are.
Thought: God ministers to us through other believers whom He has gifted. We can be aided by others who are more mature than are we. But it is on Christ our eyes are to be fixed. He is the author and perfecter of our faith, as well as our perfect example.
By A.W. Tozer, taken from "The Warfare of the Spirit"
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: John 19-21
Old and New Testaments Together: Jer. 51-52 & Hebrews 9
Historical: Mark 15-16
Chronological: Matthew 27 & Mark 15
Blended: I Chron. 4-6 & LUke 1:1-20
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Every man has some contribution to make to your life if you know how to receive it; certain men will astonish you with their ability to answer your unexpressed question and tell you what is in your heart. But never attach yourself to any man as a parasite. Adopt no man as a guru. Apart from the inspired writers of Holy Scriptures no man is worthy of such confidence. The sweetest saint can be mistaken.
I repeat, never let any man become necessary to you. Christ alone is necessary. Apart from Him we are completely wretched; without Him we cannot live and dare not die. Our need of Him is real and vital and will outlast time and go on into eternity. That deep and desperate need is met by Christ so completely that when we have Him we need no one else. We may receive help from our fellow Christians as they from us, but our need for them is relative and fleeting. Let anyone become spiritually indispensable to us and we have deserted the Rock to build on shifting sand.
It requires deep consecration, I admit, and complete detachment from earthly interests to reach such a place of independence. And it is only after we become completely dependent upon God that we can walk without leaning on men. It takes much prayer and quiet contemplation to maintain the nice balance that will permit us to receive help from our fellow Christians and at the same time be sweetly independent of them. But we should not despair; it is not beyond the possibilities of grace. Not even for such weak Christians as we are.
Thought: God ministers to us through other believers whom He has gifted. We can be aided by others who are more mature than are we. But it is on Christ our eyes are to be fixed. He is the author and perfecter of our faith, as well as our perfect example.
By A.W. Tozer, taken from "The Warfare of the Spirit"
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: John 19-21
Old and New Testaments Together: Jer. 51-52 & Hebrews 9
Historical: Mark 15-16
Chronological: Matthew 27 & Mark 15
Blended: I Chron. 4-6 & LUke 1:1-20
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Raised Through the Spirit
"God does not give the Spirit by measure. The Father loves the Son, and has given all things into His hand." John 3:34-35
Jesus took on the role required voluntary submission, and He did the will of the Father through the power of the Spirit. That is an amazing act of love and humility from One who is fully God and always will be throughout eternity
It is important to recognize the Spirit's work in the ministry and resurrection of Jesus because it indicates that the entire Trinity was involved in the redemption of mankind. The greatest affirmation that Jesus is who He claimed to be is that the Father raised the Son through the agency of the Holy Spirit.
By John MacArthur, taken from "Truth for Today"
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: John 16-18
Old and New Testaments Together: Jer. 50 & Hebrews 8
Historical: Mark 14
Chronological: John 14-17
Blended: I Chron. 1-3 & Jude
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Jesus took on the role required voluntary submission, and He did the will of the Father through the power of the Spirit. That is an amazing act of love and humility from One who is fully God and always will be throughout eternity
It is important to recognize the Spirit's work in the ministry and resurrection of Jesus because it indicates that the entire Trinity was involved in the redemption of mankind. The greatest affirmation that Jesus is who He claimed to be is that the Father raised the Son through the agency of the Holy Spirit.
By John MacArthur, taken from "Truth for Today"
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: John 16-18
Old and New Testaments Together: Jer. 50 & Hebrews 8
Historical: Mark 14
Chronological: John 14-17
Blended: I Chron. 1-3 & Jude
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Impulsiveness or Discipleship?
"But you, beloved, building yourselves up on your most holy faith . . ." Jude 20
There was nothing of the nature of impulsive or thoughtless action about our Lord, but only a calm strength that never got into a panic. Most of us develop our Christianity along the lines of our own nature, not along the lines of God’s nature. Impulsiveness is a trait of the natural life, and our Lord always ignores it, because it hinders the development of the life of a disciple. Watch how the Spirit of God gives a sense of restraint to impulsiveness, suddenly bringing us a feeling of self-conscious foolishness, which makes us instantly want to vindicate ourselves. Impulsiveness is all right in a child, but is disastrous in a man or woman—an impulsive adult is always a spoiled person. Impulsiveness needs to be trained into intuition through discipline.
Discipleship is built entirely on the supernatural grace of God. Walking on water is easy to someone with impulsive boldness, but walking on dry land as a disciple of Jesus Christ is something altogether different. Peter walked on the water to go to Jesus, but he "followed Him at a distance" on dry land ( Mark 14:54 ). We do not need the grace of God to withstand crises—human nature and pride are sufficient for us to face the stress and strain magnificently. But it does require the supernatural grace of God to live twenty-four hours of every day as a saint, going through drudgery, and living an ordinary, unnoticed, and ignored existence as a disciple of Jesus. It is ingrained in us that we have to do exceptional things for God—but we do not. We have to be exceptional in the ordinary things of life, and holy on the ordinary streets, among ordinary people—and this is not learned in five minutes.
By Oswald Chambers, taken from "My Utmost for His Highest"
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: John 13-15
Old and New Testaments Together: Jer. 48-49 & Hebrews 7
Historical: Mark 12-13
Chronological: Luke 22 & John 13
Blended: Ezra 9-10 & 2 Tim. 4
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
There was nothing of the nature of impulsive or thoughtless action about our Lord, but only a calm strength that never got into a panic. Most of us develop our Christianity along the lines of our own nature, not along the lines of God’s nature. Impulsiveness is a trait of the natural life, and our Lord always ignores it, because it hinders the development of the life of a disciple. Watch how the Spirit of God gives a sense of restraint to impulsiveness, suddenly bringing us a feeling of self-conscious foolishness, which makes us instantly want to vindicate ourselves. Impulsiveness is all right in a child, but is disastrous in a man or woman—an impulsive adult is always a spoiled person. Impulsiveness needs to be trained into intuition through discipline.
Discipleship is built entirely on the supernatural grace of God. Walking on water is easy to someone with impulsive boldness, but walking on dry land as a disciple of Jesus Christ is something altogether different. Peter walked on the water to go to Jesus, but he "followed Him at a distance" on dry land ( Mark 14:54 ). We do not need the grace of God to withstand crises—human nature and pride are sufficient for us to face the stress and strain magnificently. But it does require the supernatural grace of God to live twenty-four hours of every day as a saint, going through drudgery, and living an ordinary, unnoticed, and ignored existence as a disciple of Jesus. It is ingrained in us that we have to do exceptional things for God—but we do not. We have to be exceptional in the ordinary things of life, and holy on the ordinary streets, among ordinary people—and this is not learned in five minutes.
By Oswald Chambers, taken from "My Utmost for His Highest"
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: John 13-15
Old and New Testaments Together: Jer. 48-49 & Hebrews 7
Historical: Mark 12-13
Chronological: Luke 22 & John 13
Blended: Ezra 9-10 & 2 Tim. 4
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Monday, November 09, 2009
“Leadership Lessons from Geese”
"Let us hold fast to the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful; and let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more, as you see the day drawing near." Hebrews 10:23-25
While I reading my devotional this morning I heard geese honking as they flew over my house. That reminded me about the unique nature of geese in how they support one another. I found this article that says it all.
“Leadership Lessons from Geese”
To show the importance of teamwork, we can take examples from the lives of geese:
Fact: As each goose flaps its wings, it creates an uplift for the birds that follow. By flying in a “V” formation, the whole flock gains 71% greater flying range than if each bird flew alone.
Lesson 1: People who share a common direction and sense of community can get where they are going quicker and easier because they are traveling on the thrust of one another.
Fact: When a goose falls out of formation, it suddenly feels the drag and resistance of flying alone. It quickly moves back into formation to take advantage of the lifting power of the bird immediately in front of it.
Lesson 2: If we have as much sense as a goose we stay in formation with those headed where we want to go. We are willing to accept their help and give our help to others.
Fact: When the lead goose tires, it rotates back into the formation and another goose flies to the point position.
Lesson 3: It pays to take turns doing the hard tasks and sharing leadership. As with geese, people are interdependent on each other’s skill, capabilities, and unique arrangements of gifts, talents, and resources.
Fact: The geese flying in formation honk to encourage those up in front to keep up their speed.
Lesson 4: We need to make sure that our honking is encouraging. In groups where there is encouragement, the production is much greater. The power of encouragement (to stand by one’s core values, and to encourage the core values of others) is the quality of honking we seek.
Fact: When a goose gets sick, wounded or shot, two geese drop out of formation and follow it down to help and protect it. They stay with it until it dies or is able to fly again. Then, they launch out with another formation or catch up with the flock.
Lesson 5: If we have as much sense as geese, we will stand by each other in difficult times as well as when we are strong.
"Honk Honk - Leadership Lessons from Geese"
Too often in today's society we are not taught to support one another. We are taught to think only of ourselves, how far we can advance in whatever we're doing to be #1 and to use people to get you to that goal. Look at Hollywood for example. They love celebrities as long as they do, act and look like they want them to. Even when they behave badly they glorify them. And yet, as you see many young lives get eaten up by Hollywood you don't see Hollywood supporting them unless they make the news through tragedy, rehab or succeeding in making them money. It's a sad day when I look around and see so many people in need of love and hurting but feel all alone.
Next time you hear geese honking look up and watch them. It's not often that you see one struggling all alone behind the flock. Normally they are all flying in a V formation together as one. If one falls behind because of illness or injury others will fly with it to encourage and help it until it is well enough to join the flock once more. No one is left behind. No one is alone. Even the leaders are support by the honking you hear. The honks help encourage the leader to press forward. If he tires he falls back and allows others to lead the way for a while.
How is your honking lately? Are you just sitting there silently allowing those beside you to fall out of formation and be left behind? Are you willing to be the one that honks others on? Or the one who falls out of formation to come along side the one in need?
Have you honked lately? If not, start honking!
Krista Jones
8.31.08
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: John 11-12
Old and New Testaments Together: Jer. 46-47 & Hebrews 6
Historical: Mark 10-11
Chronological: Matthew 26 & Mark 14
Blended: Ezra 6-8 & 2 Tim. 3
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
While I reading my devotional this morning I heard geese honking as they flew over my house. That reminded me about the unique nature of geese in how they support one another. I found this article that says it all.
“Leadership Lessons from Geese”
To show the importance of teamwork, we can take examples from the lives of geese:
Fact: As each goose flaps its wings, it creates an uplift for the birds that follow. By flying in a “V” formation, the whole flock gains 71% greater flying range than if each bird flew alone.
Lesson 1: People who share a common direction and sense of community can get where they are going quicker and easier because they are traveling on the thrust of one another.
Fact: When a goose falls out of formation, it suddenly feels the drag and resistance of flying alone. It quickly moves back into formation to take advantage of the lifting power of the bird immediately in front of it.
Lesson 2: If we have as much sense as a goose we stay in formation with those headed where we want to go. We are willing to accept their help and give our help to others.
Fact: When the lead goose tires, it rotates back into the formation and another goose flies to the point position.
Lesson 3: It pays to take turns doing the hard tasks and sharing leadership. As with geese, people are interdependent on each other’s skill, capabilities, and unique arrangements of gifts, talents, and resources.
Fact: The geese flying in formation honk to encourage those up in front to keep up their speed.
Lesson 4: We need to make sure that our honking is encouraging. In groups where there is encouragement, the production is much greater. The power of encouragement (to stand by one’s core values, and to encourage the core values of others) is the quality of honking we seek.
Fact: When a goose gets sick, wounded or shot, two geese drop out of formation and follow it down to help and protect it. They stay with it until it dies or is able to fly again. Then, they launch out with another formation or catch up with the flock.
Lesson 5: If we have as much sense as geese, we will stand by each other in difficult times as well as when we are strong.
"Honk Honk - Leadership Lessons from Geese"
Too often in today's society we are not taught to support one another. We are taught to think only of ourselves, how far we can advance in whatever we're doing to be #1 and to use people to get you to that goal. Look at Hollywood for example. They love celebrities as long as they do, act and look like they want them to. Even when they behave badly they glorify them. And yet, as you see many young lives get eaten up by Hollywood you don't see Hollywood supporting them unless they make the news through tragedy, rehab or succeeding in making them money. It's a sad day when I look around and see so many people in need of love and hurting but feel all alone.
Next time you hear geese honking look up and watch them. It's not often that you see one struggling all alone behind the flock. Normally they are all flying in a V formation together as one. If one falls behind because of illness or injury others will fly with it to encourage and help it until it is well enough to join the flock once more. No one is left behind. No one is alone. Even the leaders are support by the honking you hear. The honks help encourage the leader to press forward. If he tires he falls back and allows others to lead the way for a while.
How is your honking lately? Are you just sitting there silently allowing those beside you to fall out of formation and be left behind? Are you willing to be the one that honks others on? Or the one who falls out of formation to come along side the one in need?
Have you honked lately? If not, start honking!
Krista Jones
8.31.08
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: John 11-12
Old and New Testaments Together: Jer. 46-47 & Hebrews 6
Historical: Mark 10-11
Chronological: Matthew 26 & Mark 14
Blended: Ezra 6-8 & 2 Tim. 3
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Saturday, November 07, 2009
Weekend Bible Reading
Bible Reading Guide:
Saturday:
Beginning to End: John 7-8
Old and New Testaments Together: Jer. 40-42 & Hebrews 4
Historical: Mark 6-7
Chronological: Matthew 24
Blended: Ezra 1-2 & 2 Tim. 1
Sunday:
Beginning to End: John 9-10
Old and New Testaments Together: Jer. 43-45 & Hebrews 5
Historical: Mark 8-9
Chronological: Matthew 25
Blended: Ezra 3-5 & 2 Tim. 2
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Saturday:
Beginning to End: John 7-8
Old and New Testaments Together: Jer. 40-42 & Hebrews 4
Historical: Mark 6-7
Chronological: Matthew 24
Blended: Ezra 1-2 & 2 Tim. 1
Sunday:
Beginning to End: John 9-10
Old and New Testaments Together: Jer. 43-45 & Hebrews 5
Historical: Mark 8-9
Chronological: Matthew 25
Blended: Ezra 3-5 & 2 Tim. 2
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Friday, November 06, 2009
Who Goes There?
"When he brings out his own sheep, he goes before them; and the sheep follow him." John 10:4
Last fall my wife, Carolyn, and I were driving up a winding mountain road near our home in Idaho when we came across a large flock of sheep moving down the road toward us. A lone shepherd with his dogs was in the vanguard, leading his flock out of summer pasture into the lowlands and winter quarters.
We pulled to the side of the road and waited while the flock swirled around us. We watched them until they were out of sight, then I wondered: Do sheep fear change, movement, new places?
Like most older folks, I like the “fold”—the old, familiar places. But all is shifting and changing these days; I’m being led out, away from familiar surroundings and into a vast unknown. What new limits will overtake me in the coming days? What nameless fears will awaken? Jesus’ words from John 10 come to mind: “When he brings out his own sheep, he goes before them” (v.4).
We may well be dismayed at what life has for us this year and next, but our Shepherd knows the way we’re taking. And He goes before. He will not lead us down paths too dangerous or too arduous where He cannot help us. He knows our limits. He knows the way to green pasture and good water; all we have to do is follow. — David H. Roper
Child of My love, fear not the unknown morrow,
Dread not the new demand life makes of thee;
Thy ignorance doth hold no cause for sorrow
Since what thou knowest not is known to Me. —Exley
Our unknown future is secure in the hands of our all-knowing God.
Taken from "Our Daily Bread"
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: John 5-6
Old and New Testaments Together: Jer. 37-39 & Hebrews 3
Historical: Mark 4-5
Chronological: Mark 13
Blended: Zephaniah & Col. 4
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Last fall my wife, Carolyn, and I were driving up a winding mountain road near our home in Idaho when we came across a large flock of sheep moving down the road toward us. A lone shepherd with his dogs was in the vanguard, leading his flock out of summer pasture into the lowlands and winter quarters.
We pulled to the side of the road and waited while the flock swirled around us. We watched them until they were out of sight, then I wondered: Do sheep fear change, movement, new places?
Like most older folks, I like the “fold”—the old, familiar places. But all is shifting and changing these days; I’m being led out, away from familiar surroundings and into a vast unknown. What new limits will overtake me in the coming days? What nameless fears will awaken? Jesus’ words from John 10 come to mind: “When he brings out his own sheep, he goes before them” (v.4).
We may well be dismayed at what life has for us this year and next, but our Shepherd knows the way we’re taking. And He goes before. He will not lead us down paths too dangerous or too arduous where He cannot help us. He knows our limits. He knows the way to green pasture and good water; all we have to do is follow. — David H. Roper
Child of My love, fear not the unknown morrow,
Dread not the new demand life makes of thee;
Thy ignorance doth hold no cause for sorrow
Since what thou knowest not is known to Me. —Exley
Our unknown future is secure in the hands of our all-knowing God.
Taken from "Our Daily Bread"
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: John 5-6
Old and New Testaments Together: Jer. 37-39 & Hebrews 3
Historical: Mark 4-5
Chronological: Mark 13
Blended: Zephaniah & Col. 4
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Thursday, November 05, 2009
No One is Useless to God
"God does not see the same way people see. People look at the outside of a person, but the Lord looks at the heart." I Samuel 16:7
No one is useless to God. No one, at any point in his life, is useless to God - not a little child, not the unattractive, not the clumsy, not the tired, not the discouraged. God uses his children.
By Max Lucado, taken from "Walking with the Savior"
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: John 3-4
Old and New Testaments Together: Jer. 34-36 & Hebrews 2
Historical: Mark 1-3
Chronological: Matthew 23 & Luke 20-21
Blended: Habakkuk & Col. 3
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
No one is useless to God. No one, at any point in his life, is useless to God - not a little child, not the unattractive, not the clumsy, not the tired, not the discouraged. God uses his children.
By Max Lucado, taken from "Walking with the Savior"
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: John 3-4
Old and New Testaments Together: Jer. 34-36 & Hebrews 2
Historical: Mark 1-3
Chronological: Matthew 23 & Luke 20-21
Blended: Habakkuk & Col. 3
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Wednesday, November 04, 2009
God Knows Me
"O Lord, thou hast searched me, and known me. Thou knowest my downsitting and mine uprising, thou understandest my thought afar off. Thou compassest my path and my lying down, and art acquainted with all my ways." Psalm 139:1-3
Read all of Psalm 139. And then read it again. And again. It is a study in depth psychology. It is a frightening study until we grasp the tremendous fact that God knows all of the unfathomable depths of our beings.
Our subconscious minds are like baskets. Into them has dropped everything we have ever heard, spoken or thought. And we cannot control them. But God knows all about subconscious minds as well as conscious minds. He created them in the first place. They are not too much for Him at all.
He knows.
That has come to be daily a greater relief to me.
He is "Acquainted with all my ways" and still He loves me.
Each time something frightening floats to the surface of my subconscious mind and registers its ugly self on my consciousness, I deliberately remind myself that God is not shocked by the things I am just now seeing about me. "While we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." He is unshockable and unshakable, and He is, in the Person of the blessed Holy Spirit, constantly at work in the shadowy depths of our subconscious minds. This is His domain if we are Christians. Here we have no control and even when consciously we feel out of touch with God, we can absolutely rest on the fact that He is not out of touch with us. He is there in the depths right now working.
We have His own word for the fact that He is there:
. . . If any man . . . open the door, I will come in . . . I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.
By Eugenia Price, taken from "Share My Pleasant Stones"
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: John 1-2
Old and New Testaments Together: Jer. 32-33 & Hebrews 1
Historical: Matthew 27-28
Chronological: Matthew 22 & Mark 12
Blended: Nahum & Col. 2
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Read all of Psalm 139. And then read it again. And again. It is a study in depth psychology. It is a frightening study until we grasp the tremendous fact that God knows all of the unfathomable depths of our beings.
Our subconscious minds are like baskets. Into them has dropped everything we have ever heard, spoken or thought. And we cannot control them. But God knows all about subconscious minds as well as conscious minds. He created them in the first place. They are not too much for Him at all.
He knows.
That has come to be daily a greater relief to me.
He is "Acquainted with all my ways" and still He loves me.
Each time something frightening floats to the surface of my subconscious mind and registers its ugly self on my consciousness, I deliberately remind myself that God is not shocked by the things I am just now seeing about me. "While we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." He is unshockable and unshakable, and He is, in the Person of the blessed Holy Spirit, constantly at work in the shadowy depths of our subconscious minds. This is His domain if we are Christians. Here we have no control and even when consciously we feel out of touch with God, we can absolutely rest on the fact that He is not out of touch with us. He is there in the depths right now working.
We have His own word for the fact that He is there:
. . . If any man . . . open the door, I will come in . . . I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.
By Eugenia Price, taken from "Share My Pleasant Stones"
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: John 1-2
Old and New Testaments Together: Jer. 32-33 & Hebrews 1
Historical: Matthew 27-28
Chronological: Matthew 22 & Mark 12
Blended: Nahum & Col. 2
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Tuesday, November 03, 2009
God is Sure of Us
"God will never let you down; He'll never let you be pushed past your limit." I Corinthians 10:13 (The Message)
We wander like lost sheep, true; but God is a faithful shepherd who pursues us relentlessly. We have our ups and downs, zealously believing one day and gloomily doubting the next, but He is faithful. we break our promises, but He doesn't break His. Discipleship is not a contract in which if we break our part of the agreement He is free to break His; it is a covenant in which He established the conditions and guarantees the results . . .
All the persons of faith I know are sinners, doubters, uneven performers. We are secure not because we are sure of ourselves but because we trust that God is sure of us. - A Long Obedience
By Eugene H. Peterson, taken from "God's Message For Each Day"
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Luke 23-24
Old and New Testaments Together: Jer. 30-31 & Philemon
Historical: Matthew 25-26
Chronological: Mark 11 & John 12
Blended: 2 Samuel 23-24 & Col. 1
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
We wander like lost sheep, true; but God is a faithful shepherd who pursues us relentlessly. We have our ups and downs, zealously believing one day and gloomily doubting the next, but He is faithful. we break our promises, but He doesn't break His. Discipleship is not a contract in which if we break our part of the agreement He is free to break His; it is a covenant in which He established the conditions and guarantees the results . . .
All the persons of faith I know are sinners, doubters, uneven performers. We are secure not because we are sure of ourselves but because we trust that God is sure of us. - A Long Obedience
By Eugene H. Peterson, taken from "God's Message For Each Day"
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Luke 23-24
Old and New Testaments Together: Jer. 30-31 & Philemon
Historical: Matthew 25-26
Chronological: Mark 11 & John 12
Blended: 2 Samuel 23-24 & Col. 1
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Monday, November 02, 2009
November's Memory Verse
Galatians 6:9-10
"And let us not lose heart in doing good, for in due time we shall reap if we do not grow weary. So then, while we have opportunity, let us do good to all men, and especially to those who are of the household of the faith."
Galatians 6:9-10 (NASB - New American Standard Bible)
October's Memory Verse: Matthew 11:28-30
September's Memory Verse: Isaiah 41:10
August's Memory Verse: Ephesians 4:31
July's Memory Verse: I John 5:13
June's Memory Verse: Ephesians 4:25
May's Memory Verse: James 1:2-4
April's Memory Verse: Jeremiah 30:17
March's Memory Verse: James 1:5
February's Memory Verse: John 15:5
January's Memory Verse: Ephesians 3:20-21
December's Memory Verse: Lamentations 3:22-23
November's Memory Verse: 2 Timothy 2:15
October's Memory Verse: Proverbs 16:1-3
September's Memory Verse: Proverbs 17:9
January's Memory Verse: Ephesians 3:20-21
Remember the key is to review review review. Always review the verses you've already memorized along with learning this month's verse.
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Luke 21-22
Old and New Testaments Together: Jer. 27-29 & Titus 3
Historical: Matthew 23-24
Chronological: Luke 18:15-19:48
Blended: 2 Sam. 21-22 & 3 John
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
"And let us not lose heart in doing good, for in due time we shall reap if we do not grow weary. So then, while we have opportunity, let us do good to all men, and especially to those who are of the household of the faith."
Galatians 6:9-10 (NASB - New American Standard Bible)
October's Memory Verse: Matthew 11:28-30
September's Memory Verse: Isaiah 41:10
August's Memory Verse: Ephesians 4:31
July's Memory Verse: I John 5:13
June's Memory Verse: Ephesians 4:25
May's Memory Verse: James 1:2-4
April's Memory Verse: Jeremiah 30:17
March's Memory Verse: James 1:5
February's Memory Verse: John 15:5
January's Memory Verse: Ephesians 3:20-21
December's Memory Verse: Lamentations 3:22-23
November's Memory Verse: 2 Timothy 2:15
October's Memory Verse: Proverbs 16:1-3
September's Memory Verse: Proverbs 17:9
January's Memory Verse: Ephesians 3:20-21
Remember the key is to review review review. Always review the verses you've already memorized along with learning this month's verse.
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Luke 21-22
Old and New Testaments Together: Jer. 27-29 & Titus 3
Historical: Matthew 23-24
Chronological: Luke 18:15-19:48
Blended: 2 Sam. 21-22 & 3 John
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Weekend Bible Reading
Bible Reading Guide:
Saturday:
Beginning to End: Luke 17-18
Old and New Testaments Together: Jer. 22-23 & Titus 1
Historical: Matthew 18-20
Chronological: Matthew 19 & Mark 10
Blended: 2 Sam. 16-181 & I John 5
Sunday:
Beginning to End: Luke 19-20
Old and New Testaments Together: Jer. 24-26 & Titus 2
Historical: Matthew 21-22
Chronological: Matthew 20-21
Blended: 2 Sam. 19-20 & 2 John
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Saturday:
Beginning to End: Luke 17-18
Old and New Testaments Together: Jer. 22-23 & Titus 1
Historical: Matthew 18-20
Chronological: Matthew 19 & Mark 10
Blended: 2 Sam. 16-181 & I John 5
Sunday:
Beginning to End: Luke 19-20
Old and New Testaments Together: Jer. 24-26 & Titus 2
Historical: Matthew 21-22
Chronological: Matthew 20-21
Blended: 2 Sam. 19-20 & 2 John
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Friday, October 30, 2009
Lessons from a Ezekiel
Ezekiel Chapter 1 talks about the vision Ezekiel had about the Four Living Beings. I have a hard time picturing these beings but there are a few things I can learn from them.
1. I was impressed that their faces never turned. They looked straight ahead, "their wings touched one another; their faces did not turn when they moved, each went straight forward." Ezekiel 1:9
This is telling me to stick to the path God has planned for me. Don't turn to the right or left but look straight ahead. I know what path to travel because God has given me His Word to read and live by.
2. I was also impressed about how they moved and who moved them. "Wherever the spirit was about to go, they would go in that direction. And the wheels rose close besides them; for the spirit of the living beings was in the wheels. Whenever those went, these went; and whenever those stood still, these stood still, and whenever those rose from the earth, the wheels rose close beside them; for the spirit of the living beings was in the wheels." Ezekiel 1:20-21
This is telling me that I need to allow the Holy Spirit to move in my life and direct me. In order to do this I need to stay in tune to God and that can be done also though His Word and the impressions I get. Those impressions have to be carefully considered and weighted against the Word.
3. They knew how unworthy they were in God's holy presence, "Under the expanse their wings were stretched out straight, on toward the other; each one also had two wings covering its body on the one side and on the other." Ezekiel 1:23
This is reminding me that God is holy. From what I learned about these living beings who attended God in the throne room in Isaiah, they used their wings to cover themselves because they were not worthy to be in God's presence. God is holy and I need to be remindful of His holiness and how unworthy I am. Yet, as I learned in Isaiah, even though I'm not worthy, He still covers me with His love and cares for me. He wants me to know HIm and be His child.
4. Ezekiel chapter 2 deals with God speaking to Ezekiel and telling him what to say to the Israelites. Twice He impressed upon Ezekiel that no matter what do not be afraid of them. "And you, son of man, neither fear them nor fear their words, though thistles and thrones are with you and you sit on scorpions; neither fear their words nor be dismayed at their presence, for they are a rebellious house." Ezekiel 2:6. This is again repeated in Chapter 3, "Like emery harder then flint I have made your forehead. Do not be afraid of them or be dismayed before them, though they are a rebellious house." Ezekiel 3:9
I can learn from these passages that speaking the truth can and at times will be very difficult. I will come against opposition (thistles, thrones and scorpions) and it may hurt. But one thing I can do to help myself is to strengthen myself by reading the Word, praying and deepening my relationship with the Lord. By doing those thing I will be equipped to do whatever God is calling me to do.
Krista Jones
8.30.08
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Luke 14-16
Old and New Testaments Together: Jer. 20-21 & 2 Tim. 4
Historical: Matthew 15-17
Chronological: Luke 17:11-18:14
Blended: 2 Samuel 14-15 & I John 4
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
1. I was impressed that their faces never turned. They looked straight ahead, "their wings touched one another; their faces did not turn when they moved, each went straight forward." Ezekiel 1:9
This is telling me to stick to the path God has planned for me. Don't turn to the right or left but look straight ahead. I know what path to travel because God has given me His Word to read and live by.
2. I was also impressed about how they moved and who moved them. "Wherever the spirit was about to go, they would go in that direction. And the wheels rose close besides them; for the spirit of the living beings was in the wheels. Whenever those went, these went; and whenever those stood still, these stood still, and whenever those rose from the earth, the wheels rose close beside them; for the spirit of the living beings was in the wheels." Ezekiel 1:20-21
This is telling me that I need to allow the Holy Spirit to move in my life and direct me. In order to do this I need to stay in tune to God and that can be done also though His Word and the impressions I get. Those impressions have to be carefully considered and weighted against the Word.
3. They knew how unworthy they were in God's holy presence, "Under the expanse their wings were stretched out straight, on toward the other; each one also had two wings covering its body on the one side and on the other." Ezekiel 1:23
This is reminding me that God is holy. From what I learned about these living beings who attended God in the throne room in Isaiah, they used their wings to cover themselves because they were not worthy to be in God's presence. God is holy and I need to be remindful of His holiness and how unworthy I am. Yet, as I learned in Isaiah, even though I'm not worthy, He still covers me with His love and cares for me. He wants me to know HIm and be His child.
4. Ezekiel chapter 2 deals with God speaking to Ezekiel and telling him what to say to the Israelites. Twice He impressed upon Ezekiel that no matter what do not be afraid of them. "And you, son of man, neither fear them nor fear their words, though thistles and thrones are with you and you sit on scorpions; neither fear their words nor be dismayed at their presence, for they are a rebellious house." Ezekiel 2:6. This is again repeated in Chapter 3, "Like emery harder then flint I have made your forehead. Do not be afraid of them or be dismayed before them, though they are a rebellious house." Ezekiel 3:9
I can learn from these passages that speaking the truth can and at times will be very difficult. I will come against opposition (thistles, thrones and scorpions) and it may hurt. But one thing I can do to help myself is to strengthen myself by reading the Word, praying and deepening my relationship with the Lord. By doing those thing I will be equipped to do whatever God is calling me to do.
Krista Jones
8.30.08
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Luke 14-16
Old and New Testaments Together: Jer. 20-21 & 2 Tim. 4
Historical: Matthew 15-17
Chronological: Luke 17:11-18:14
Blended: 2 Samuel 14-15 & I John 4
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Message from Dunkirk
"Our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace . . . But if not, be it known unto thee, O king, that we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up." Daniel 3:17-18
In late May of 1940, during World War II, the German army had overrun the tiny European nation of Belgium. As Hitler's tanks and troops marched across Belgium, they pushed the defenders - Great Britain, France, and Belgium were cornered at the seaport in northern France called Dunkirk. It looked as though all 338,000 of them would be wiped out by Hitler's approaching armies.
Back in Britain, as the British people waited anxiously, a simple three world message was transmitted from the doomed armies at Dunkirk: "But if not."
Suddenly, the island nation of Great Britain sprang into action. Every battleship, gunboat, fishing boat, motorboat, yacht - even rowboats! - journeyed across the English Channel to help rescue those troops from Dunkirk and return them all safely to Britain.
What was it about the three-word message? How could three short words - only eight letters - start all that?
The Miracle of Dunkirk happened because the British people recognized a phrase from the Bible. They recognized the phrase from the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, who trusted in God, even when the king threatened to throw them into a fiery furnace for refusing to worship an idol, And the British people knew that their troops were saying, "We will not give up, even if we die."
You may never be thrown into a fiery furnace. You probably will never be backed into a corner by thousands of tanks and troops. But there will be many times in your life when you'll have to choose between doing the right thing and giving in to sin. You'll face times when doing the right thing will be hard or embarrassing.
At such times remember that doing right is still right even when it's hard or wen there seems to be no immediate reward. Doing right is still right even if it might be embarrassing or yet you into trouble. God can deliver you, and He may even reward you for doing right - but if not, it's still right to do right.
By Josh McDowell, taken from "Youth Devotions"
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Luke 12-13
Old and New Testaments Together: Jer. 18-19 & 2 Tim. 3
Historical: Matthew 13-14
Chronological: John 11
Blended: 2 Samuel 12-13 & I John 3
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
In late May of 1940, during World War II, the German army had overrun the tiny European nation of Belgium. As Hitler's tanks and troops marched across Belgium, they pushed the defenders - Great Britain, France, and Belgium were cornered at the seaport in northern France called Dunkirk. It looked as though all 338,000 of them would be wiped out by Hitler's approaching armies.
Back in Britain, as the British people waited anxiously, a simple three world message was transmitted from the doomed armies at Dunkirk: "But if not."
Suddenly, the island nation of Great Britain sprang into action. Every battleship, gunboat, fishing boat, motorboat, yacht - even rowboats! - journeyed across the English Channel to help rescue those troops from Dunkirk and return them all safely to Britain.
What was it about the three-word message? How could three short words - only eight letters - start all that?
The Miracle of Dunkirk happened because the British people recognized a phrase from the Bible. They recognized the phrase from the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, who trusted in God, even when the king threatened to throw them into a fiery furnace for refusing to worship an idol, And the British people knew that their troops were saying, "We will not give up, even if we die."
You may never be thrown into a fiery furnace. You probably will never be backed into a corner by thousands of tanks and troops. But there will be many times in your life when you'll have to choose between doing the right thing and giving in to sin. You'll face times when doing the right thing will be hard or embarrassing.
At such times remember that doing right is still right even when it's hard or wen there seems to be no immediate reward. Doing right is still right even if it might be embarrassing or yet you into trouble. God can deliver you, and He may even reward you for doing right - but if not, it's still right to do right.
By Josh McDowell, taken from "Youth Devotions"
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Luke 12-13
Old and New Testaments Together: Jer. 18-19 & 2 Tim. 3
Historical: Matthew 13-14
Chronological: John 11
Blended: 2 Samuel 12-13 & I John 3
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Transformation
"Come now, let us reason together," says the Lord. "Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool." Isaiah 1:18
Some fishermen in the highlands of Scotland came into a little Scottish inn late one afternoon for a cup of tea. As one was describing "the one that got away" to his friends, he flung out his hands in the typical fisherman's gesture. He did so just as the waitress was setting down his cup of tea. The resulting collision left a huge tea stain spreading on the whitewashed wall. The fisherman apologized profusely.
Another gentleman seated nearby said, "Never mind." Raising, he took a crayon from his pocket and began to sketch around the ugly brown stain. Slowly there emerged the head of a magnificent royal stag with antlers spread. [The man] was Sir Edwin Henry Landseer, England's foremost painter of animals.
Now if an artist can do that with an ugly brown stain what can God do with my sins and mistakes fi I but give them to Him?
By Ruth Bell Graham, taken from, "Women's Devotional Bible 2"
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Luke 10-11
Old and New Testaments Together: Jer. 15-17 & 2 Tim. 2
Historical: Matthew 10-12
Chronological: Luke 16-17:10
Blended: 2 Samuel 9- 11 & I John 2
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Some fishermen in the highlands of Scotland came into a little Scottish inn late one afternoon for a cup of tea. As one was describing "the one that got away" to his friends, he flung out his hands in the typical fisherman's gesture. He did so just as the waitress was setting down his cup of tea. The resulting collision left a huge tea stain spreading on the whitewashed wall. The fisherman apologized profusely.
Another gentleman seated nearby said, "Never mind." Raising, he took a crayon from his pocket and began to sketch around the ugly brown stain. Slowly there emerged the head of a magnificent royal stag with antlers spread. [The man] was Sir Edwin Henry Landseer, England's foremost painter of animals.
Now if an artist can do that with an ugly brown stain what can God do with my sins and mistakes fi I but give them to Him?
By Ruth Bell Graham, taken from, "Women's Devotional Bible 2"
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Luke 10-11
Old and New Testaments Together: Jer. 15-17 & 2 Tim. 2
Historical: Matthew 10-12
Chronological: Luke 16-17:10
Blended: 2 Samuel 9- 11 & I John 2
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
The Sum of Christianity
"I did this as an example so that you should do as I have done for you." John 13:15
Mark it down. we are what we see. If we see only ourselves, our tombstones will have the same epitaph Paul used to describe enemies of Christ: "Their god is their own appetite, they glory in their shame, and this world is the limit of their horizon." (Phil. 3:19).
Humans were never meant to dwell in the stale fog of lowlands with no vision of their Creator . . .
Seeing Jesus is what Christianity is all about. Christian service, in its purest form, is nothing more than imitating Him whom we see. To see His majesty and to imitate Him, that is the sum of Christianity."
By Max Lucado, taken from "Grace For The Moment"
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Luke 8-9
Old and New Testaments Together: Jer. 12-14 & 2 Tim. 1
Historical: Matthew 8-9
Chronological: Luke 14-15
Blended: 2 Samuel 6-8 & I John 1
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Mark it down. we are what we see. If we see only ourselves, our tombstones will have the same epitaph Paul used to describe enemies of Christ: "Their god is their own appetite, they glory in their shame, and this world is the limit of their horizon." (Phil. 3:19).
Humans were never meant to dwell in the stale fog of lowlands with no vision of their Creator . . .
Seeing Jesus is what Christianity is all about. Christian service, in its purest form, is nothing more than imitating Him whom we see. To see His majesty and to imitate Him, that is the sum of Christianity."
By Max Lucado, taken from "Grace For The Moment"
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Luke 8-9
Old and New Testaments Together: Jer. 12-14 & 2 Tim. 1
Historical: Matthew 8-9
Chronological: Luke 14-15
Blended: 2 Samuel 6-8 & I John 1
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Monday, October 26, 2009
A Treasure Store
"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ." Ephesians 1:3
There is no way to comprehend the riches God has provided for those who love His Son. The treasure He has prepared are infinite. Jesus said, "The Kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and hid; and for joy over it goes and sells all that he has, and buys that field" (Matt. 13:44). The apostle Paul quotes the prophet Isaiah when he says, "Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, no have entered into the heart of man the things which God has prepared for those who love him." (I COr. 2:9).
The good news is, if we love the Son of God, we inherit all the riches of the Father. If we believe in Christ, we have treasure beyond imagination.
By John MacArthur, taken from "Truth for Today"
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Luke 6-7
Old and New Testaments Together: Jer. 9-11 & I Tim. 6
Historical: Matthew 5-7
Chronological: Luke 12-13
Blended: 2 Samuel 3-5 & I Tim. 6
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
There is no way to comprehend the riches God has provided for those who love His Son. The treasure He has prepared are infinite. Jesus said, "The Kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and hid; and for joy over it goes and sells all that he has, and buys that field" (Matt. 13:44). The apostle Paul quotes the prophet Isaiah when he says, "Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, no have entered into the heart of man the things which God has prepared for those who love him." (I COr. 2:9).
The good news is, if we love the Son of God, we inherit all the riches of the Father. If we believe in Christ, we have treasure beyond imagination.
By John MacArthur, taken from "Truth for Today"
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Luke 6-7
Old and New Testaments Together: Jer. 9-11 & I Tim. 6
Historical: Matthew 5-7
Chronological: Luke 12-13
Blended: 2 Samuel 3-5 & I Tim. 6
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Saturday, October 24, 2009
Weekend Bible Reading
Bible Reading Guide:
Saturday:
Beginning to End: Luke 2-3
Old and New Testaments Together: Jer. 3-5 & I Tim. 4
Historical: Romans 14-16
Chronological: John 9:1-10:21
Blended: I Sam. 30-31 & I Tim. 4
Sunday:
Beginning to End: Luke 4-5
Old and New Testaments Together: Jer. 6-8 & I Tim. 5
Historical: Matthew 1-4
Chronological: Luke 10-11 & John 10:22-42
Blended: 2 Sam. 1-2 & I Tim. 5
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Saturday:
Beginning to End: Luke 2-3
Old and New Testaments Together: Jer. 3-5 & I Tim. 4
Historical: Romans 14-16
Chronological: John 9:1-10:21
Blended: I Sam. 30-31 & I Tim. 4
Sunday:
Beginning to End: Luke 4-5
Old and New Testaments Together: Jer. 6-8 & I Tim. 5
Historical: Matthew 1-4
Chronological: Luke 10-11 & John 10:22-42
Blended: 2 Sam. 1-2 & I Tim. 5
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Friday, October 23, 2009
The Awareness of the Call
". . . for necessity is laid upon me; yes, woe is me if I do not preach the gospel!"1 Corinthians 9:16
We are inclined to forget the deeply spiritual and supernatural touch of God. If you are able to tell exactly where you were when you received the call of God and can explain all about it, I question whether you have truly been called. The call of God does not come like that; it is much more supernatural. The realization of the call in a person’s life may come like a clap of thunder or it may dawn gradually. But however quickly or slowly this awareness comes, it is always accompanied with an undercurrent of the supernatural— something that is inexpressible and produces a "glow." At any moment the sudden awareness of this incalculable, supernatural, surprising call that has taken hold of your life may break through— "I chose you . . ." ( John 15:16 ). The call of God has nothing to do with salvation and sanctification. You are not called to preach the gospel because you are sanctified; the call to preach the gospel is infinitely different. Paul describes it as a compulsion that was placed upon him.
If you have ignored, and thereby removed, the great supernatural call of God in your life, take a review of your circumstances. See where you have put your own ideas of service or your particular abilities ahead of the call of God. Paul said, ". . . woe is me if I do not preach the gospel!" He had become aware of the call of God, and his compulsion to "preach the gospel" was so strong that nothing else was any longer even a competitor for his strength.
If a man or woman is called of God, it doesn’t matter how difficult the circumstances may be. God orchestrates every force at work for His purpose in the end. If you will agree with God’s purpose, He will bring not only your conscious level but also all the deeper levels of your life, which you yourself cannot reach, into perfect harmony.
By Oswald Chambers, taken from "My Utmost for His Highest"
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Luke 1
Old and New Testaments Together: Jer. 1-2 & I Tim. 3
Historical: Romans 11-13
Chronological: John 7-8
Blended: I Samuel 27-29 & I Tim. 3
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
We are inclined to forget the deeply spiritual and supernatural touch of God. If you are able to tell exactly where you were when you received the call of God and can explain all about it, I question whether you have truly been called. The call of God does not come like that; it is much more supernatural. The realization of the call in a person’s life may come like a clap of thunder or it may dawn gradually. But however quickly or slowly this awareness comes, it is always accompanied with an undercurrent of the supernatural— something that is inexpressible and produces a "glow." At any moment the sudden awareness of this incalculable, supernatural, surprising call that has taken hold of your life may break through— "I chose you . . ." ( John 15:16 ). The call of God has nothing to do with salvation and sanctification. You are not called to preach the gospel because you are sanctified; the call to preach the gospel is infinitely different. Paul describes it as a compulsion that was placed upon him.
If you have ignored, and thereby removed, the great supernatural call of God in your life, take a review of your circumstances. See where you have put your own ideas of service or your particular abilities ahead of the call of God. Paul said, ". . . woe is me if I do not preach the gospel!" He had become aware of the call of God, and his compulsion to "preach the gospel" was so strong that nothing else was any longer even a competitor for his strength.
If a man or woman is called of God, it doesn’t matter how difficult the circumstances may be. God orchestrates every force at work for His purpose in the end. If you will agree with God’s purpose, He will bring not only your conscious level but also all the deeper levels of your life, which you yourself cannot reach, into perfect harmony.
By Oswald Chambers, taken from "My Utmost for His Highest"
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Luke 1
Old and New Testaments Together: Jer. 1-2 & I Tim. 3
Historical: Romans 11-13
Chronological: John 7-8
Blended: I Samuel 27-29 & I Tim. 3
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Wealth
"But Lord," Gideon asked, "how can I save Israel? My clan is the weakest in Manasseh, and I am the least in my family." Judges 6:15
Some of us feel that it is a lack of money that holds us down. Gideon replied to God's request, " But Lord . . . how can I save Israel? My clan is the weakest in Manasseh, and I am the least of my family." (Judges 6:15). With no finances behind him t all, Gideon was turned into a wise prophet by God's commanding power. Many times I have had sweet Christians tell me they cannot have friends in for fellowship because they do not have good china or matching napkins, because their house is to small, or because their talent is too slight. But these are only excuses for our unwillingness to do as God has asked us. "Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling" (I Peter 4:9). I would enjoy a peanut butter sandwich if someone else prepared it and handled it to me.
The world tells us that we need money to be happy, but as God told Gideon, "I will be with you" (Judges 6:16). Should not his presence be assurance enough?
By Florence Littauer, taken from, "Women's Devotional Bible 1"
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Mark 15-16
Old and New Testaments Together: Isaiah 65-66 & I Tim. 2
Historical: Romans 8-10
Chronological: Matthew 18
Blended: I Samuel 25-26 & I Tim. 2
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Some of us feel that it is a lack of money that holds us down. Gideon replied to God's request, " But Lord . . . how can I save Israel? My clan is the weakest in Manasseh, and I am the least of my family." (Judges 6:15). With no finances behind him t all, Gideon was turned into a wise prophet by God's commanding power. Many times I have had sweet Christians tell me they cannot have friends in for fellowship because they do not have good china or matching napkins, because their house is to small, or because their talent is too slight. But these are only excuses for our unwillingness to do as God has asked us. "Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling" (I Peter 4:9). I would enjoy a peanut butter sandwich if someone else prepared it and handled it to me.
The world tells us that we need money to be happy, but as God told Gideon, "I will be with you" (Judges 6:16). Should not his presence be assurance enough?
By Florence Littauer, taken from, "Women's Devotional Bible 1"
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Mark 15-16
Old and New Testaments Together: Isaiah 65-66 & I Tim. 2
Historical: Romans 8-10
Chronological: Matthew 18
Blended: I Samuel 25-26 & I Tim. 2
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Struggling To Kneel
"Always laboring fervently for you in prayers, that you may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God." Col. 4:12
Just before John Ashcroft was being sworn in as a US senator, he met with family and friends for prayer. As they gathered around him, he saw his dad trying to get up from the couch where he sat. Since his father was in frail health, Ashcroft told him, “That’s okay, Dad. You don’t have to stand up to pray for me.” His father replied, “I’m not struggling to stand up. I’m struggling to kneel.”
His father’s effort reminds me of the exertion it sometimes takes to intercede for a fellow believer. In Colossians, Paul refers to Epaphras as a bondservant who is “always laboring fervently for you in prayers, that you may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God” (Col. 4:12). “Laboring fervently” is the translation of a Greek word from which we get our word agony. It was used of wrestlers who in the Greek gymnastic games strained to overcome an opponent.
Epaphras interceded for other believers to become mature in their walk with the Savior. Asking God to overcome obstacles to spiritual growth in the lives of others requires our concentration and discipline. Are we willing to labor “fervently” in prayer to ask God to meet the needs of our loved ones? — Dennis Fisher
There’s a holy, high vocation
Needing workers everywhere;
’Tis the highest form of service,
’Tis the ministry of prayer. —Woodworth
Taken from "Our Daily Bread"
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Mark 14
Old and New Testaments Together: Isaiah 62-64 & I Tim. 1
Historical: Romans 4-7
Chronological: Matthew 17, Mark 9 & Luke 9:28-62
Blended: I Samuel 22-24 & I Tim. 1
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Just before John Ashcroft was being sworn in as a US senator, he met with family and friends for prayer. As they gathered around him, he saw his dad trying to get up from the couch where he sat. Since his father was in frail health, Ashcroft told him, “That’s okay, Dad. You don’t have to stand up to pray for me.” His father replied, “I’m not struggling to stand up. I’m struggling to kneel.”
His father’s effort reminds me of the exertion it sometimes takes to intercede for a fellow believer. In Colossians, Paul refers to Epaphras as a bondservant who is “always laboring fervently for you in prayers, that you may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God” (Col. 4:12). “Laboring fervently” is the translation of a Greek word from which we get our word agony. It was used of wrestlers who in the Greek gymnastic games strained to overcome an opponent.
Epaphras interceded for other believers to become mature in their walk with the Savior. Asking God to overcome obstacles to spiritual growth in the lives of others requires our concentration and discipline. Are we willing to labor “fervently” in prayer to ask God to meet the needs of our loved ones? — Dennis Fisher
There’s a holy, high vocation
Needing workers everywhere;
’Tis the highest form of service,
’Tis the ministry of prayer. —Woodworth
Taken from "Our Daily Bread"
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Mark 14
Old and New Testaments Together: Isaiah 62-64 & I Tim. 1
Historical: Romans 4-7
Chronological: Matthew 17, Mark 9 & Luke 9:28-62
Blended: I Samuel 22-24 & I Tim. 1
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
God Never Fails
"The Lord's lovingkindness indeed never cease, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness." Lamentations 3:22-23
These verses are within a group of verses from Lamentations 3:16-33 that touched me back in October 19, 2000. Besides these verses I wrote, "Life's darkest trial cannot dim the light of God's love." The day before on October 18, 2000 I went in for my first treatment. It was very frightening and took 7 long hours of sitting in one place hooked up to an IV. The experimental drug was causing me to have reactions that forced them to administer it to me at a slower pace each time I developed symptoms. The Benadryl pretty much knocked me out and caused me to be in a dream like state. I was so heavy feeling that I couldn't move or talk. The Rituxan (the experimental drug) ended up giving me a high fever and hives. Each time this happened they had to stop the drug and administer more Benadryl. After 7 long hours of this my oncologist told me that they gave me enough Benadryl to knock out and elephant. It was a good thing my body was reacting because it meant that the drug was working.
When I got home I was exhausted. The side effects of Rituxan was that I'd have flu like symptoms and sure enough I ached and was chilled all night. I was miserable. Here is what I wrote in my journal the morning of October 19, 2000:
"My night was so horrible. I had to take more Benadryl to help with the side effects and that kept me up all night. GERR!!!! Eric had to stay home with me since I couldn't take care of the kids. I feel so helpless. I'm OK, yet I can't seem to get myself up most of the time. What's going to happen when I start the chemo?
I'm so fearful of it all! I cried most of the evening at the thought of chemo. What if it makes me so sick that I can't deal with life? What if I get sicker because of it? What if I die from it? Will it hurt as they inject it into me? I have so many questions yet how do I get them answered? I know the Lord is with me but I still sometimes feel all alone. Will he get me through this? I feel like I'm walking into a black hole with no light at the end of it to guide me." - Krista Jones 10.19.00
This is where I felt myself continue to fall into that black hole where I eventually found Jesus waiting with open arms to lift me back up. Although I felt like I was walking into a black hole with no light to guide me, He was still with me. It wasn't until I read my devotional later on that night that I came across this passage, "Is it not from the mouth of the Most High that both good and ill go forth?" (Lamentations 3:38). But above that in verse 33 it says, "For He does not afflict willingly or grieve the sons of men."
During that terrible time in 2000 I was struggling with the fact that I was suffering from Lymphoma. I questioned why God had allowed it when things were going so good for me. I can't say why these verses seem to contradict themselves. One says that He does not afflict willingly but the other says that out of Him comes both good and ill. What I do know is that no matter what, I was changed and drawn near to Him through my affliction. If He chose for me to go through cancer then so be it. I'm better off for going through it then not. It might be like when you watch your children make mistakes. You know they're heading in that direction but if you intervene and stop them they may not learn what they need to because they have to go through the consequences in order grow and learn. Thus, your choice is to either stop them before they make the mistake or allow them to make the mistake knowing it'll bring on a lot of pain. God didn't want to see me suffer but He allowed me to suffer none-the-less. And because of it I grew closer to Him. That would not have happened had He chose to heal me on the spot or never allowed the cancer to enter my body.
Now, I can say that I can claim verse 40, "We lift up our heart and hands toward God in heaven." Praise You, Lord, for all the good and bad that comes into my life. I know that no matter what You are in control and love me and will protect me. Your lovingkindness never ceases and Your compassions never fail!!!
Krista Jones
8.29.08
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Mark 12-13
Old and New Testaments Together: Isaiah 59-61 & 2 Thess. 3
Historical: Romans 1-3
Chronological: Matthew 16, Mark 8 & Luke 9:18-27
Blended: I Samuel 19-21 & 2 Peter 3
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
These verses are within a group of verses from Lamentations 3:16-33 that touched me back in October 19, 2000. Besides these verses I wrote, "Life's darkest trial cannot dim the light of God's love." The day before on October 18, 2000 I went in for my first treatment. It was very frightening and took 7 long hours of sitting in one place hooked up to an IV. The experimental drug was causing me to have reactions that forced them to administer it to me at a slower pace each time I developed symptoms. The Benadryl pretty much knocked me out and caused me to be in a dream like state. I was so heavy feeling that I couldn't move or talk. The Rituxan (the experimental drug) ended up giving me a high fever and hives. Each time this happened they had to stop the drug and administer more Benadryl. After 7 long hours of this my oncologist told me that they gave me enough Benadryl to knock out and elephant. It was a good thing my body was reacting because it meant that the drug was working.
When I got home I was exhausted. The side effects of Rituxan was that I'd have flu like symptoms and sure enough I ached and was chilled all night. I was miserable. Here is what I wrote in my journal the morning of October 19, 2000:
"My night was so horrible. I had to take more Benadryl to help with the side effects and that kept me up all night. GERR!!!! Eric had to stay home with me since I couldn't take care of the kids. I feel so helpless. I'm OK, yet I can't seem to get myself up most of the time. What's going to happen when I start the chemo?
I'm so fearful of it all! I cried most of the evening at the thought of chemo. What if it makes me so sick that I can't deal with life? What if I get sicker because of it? What if I die from it? Will it hurt as they inject it into me? I have so many questions yet how do I get them answered? I know the Lord is with me but I still sometimes feel all alone. Will he get me through this? I feel like I'm walking into a black hole with no light at the end of it to guide me." - Krista Jones 10.19.00
This is where I felt myself continue to fall into that black hole where I eventually found Jesus waiting with open arms to lift me back up. Although I felt like I was walking into a black hole with no light to guide me, He was still with me. It wasn't until I read my devotional later on that night that I came across this passage, "Is it not from the mouth of the Most High that both good and ill go forth?" (Lamentations 3:38). But above that in verse 33 it says, "For He does not afflict willingly or grieve the sons of men."
During that terrible time in 2000 I was struggling with the fact that I was suffering from Lymphoma. I questioned why God had allowed it when things were going so good for me. I can't say why these verses seem to contradict themselves. One says that He does not afflict willingly but the other says that out of Him comes both good and ill. What I do know is that no matter what, I was changed and drawn near to Him through my affliction. If He chose for me to go through cancer then so be it. I'm better off for going through it then not. It might be like when you watch your children make mistakes. You know they're heading in that direction but if you intervene and stop them they may not learn what they need to because they have to go through the consequences in order grow and learn. Thus, your choice is to either stop them before they make the mistake or allow them to make the mistake knowing it'll bring on a lot of pain. God didn't want to see me suffer but He allowed me to suffer none-the-less. And because of it I grew closer to Him. That would not have happened had He chose to heal me on the spot or never allowed the cancer to enter my body.
Now, I can say that I can claim verse 40, "We lift up our heart and hands toward God in heaven." Praise You, Lord, for all the good and bad that comes into my life. I know that no matter what You are in control and love me and will protect me. Your lovingkindness never ceases and Your compassions never fail!!!
Krista Jones
8.29.08
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Mark 12-13
Old and New Testaments Together: Isaiah 59-61 & 2 Thess. 3
Historical: Romans 1-3
Chronological: Matthew 16, Mark 8 & Luke 9:18-27
Blended: I Samuel 19-21 & 2 Peter 3
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Monday, October 19, 2009
He is waiting for us
"As the mountains surround Jerusalem, the Lord surrounds His people now and forever." Psalm 125:2
We have a Father who is filled with compassion, a feeling Father who hurts when His children hurt. We serve a god who says that even when we're under pressure and feel like nothing is going to go right, He's waiting for us, to embrace us whether we succeed or fail.
By Max Lucado, taken from "Walking with the Savior"
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Mark 10-11
Old and New Testaments Together: Isaiah 56-58 & 2 Thess. 2
Historical: 1 Cor. 10-13
Chronological: Matthew 15 & Mark 7
Blended: I Samuel 17-18 & 2 Peter 2
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
We have a Father who is filled with compassion, a feeling Father who hurts when His children hurt. We serve a god who says that even when we're under pressure and feel like nothing is going to go right, He's waiting for us, to embrace us whether we succeed or fail.
By Max Lucado, taken from "Walking with the Savior"
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Mark 10-11
Old and New Testaments Together: Isaiah 56-58 & 2 Thess. 2
Historical: 1 Cor. 10-13
Chronological: Matthew 15 & Mark 7
Blended: I Samuel 17-18 & 2 Peter 2
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Saturday, October 17, 2009
Weekend Bible Reading
Bible Reading Guide:
Saturday:
Beginning to End: Mark 6-7
Old and New Testaments Together: Isaiah 50-52 & I Thess. 5
Historical: 2 Cor. 1-4
Chronological: Matthew 14, Mark 7 & Luke 9:1-17
Blended: I Sam. 13-14 & Eph. 6
Sunday:
Beginning to End: Mark 8-9
Old and New Testaments Together: Isaiah 53-55 & 2 Thess. 1
Historical: 2 Cor. 5-9
Chronological: John 6
Blended: I Sam. 15-16 & 2 Peter 1
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Saturday:
Beginning to End: Mark 6-7
Old and New Testaments Together: Isaiah 50-52 & I Thess. 5
Historical: 2 Cor. 1-4
Chronological: Matthew 14, Mark 7 & Luke 9:1-17
Blended: I Sam. 13-14 & Eph. 6
Sunday:
Beginning to End: Mark 8-9
Old and New Testaments Together: Isaiah 53-55 & 2 Thess. 1
Historical: 2 Cor. 5-9
Chronological: John 6
Blended: I Sam. 15-16 & 2 Peter 1
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Friday, October 16, 2009
Failed?
There failed not ought of any good thing which the Lord had spoken - Joshua 21:45
Such will be the summary of our lives, as we review them from the land of the sunset. We shall see plenty of our own failures, shortcomings, and sins, and sadly acknowledge them. We shall see that our unbelief and disobedience have deprived us of the enjoyment of much that God intended for us. We shall see that whatever was lacking was in no wise due to Him, but to ourselves. The land of our inheritance had been all given us in Jesus; but we suffered the lack of much, because of our failure to enter in.
There may be long delays in the fulfillment of promise. - But delays are not denials; and it is better to let the fruit ripen before you pluck it. Wait till God drops it into your hand; it will be ever so much sweeter.
There may be enemies and abstacles. - But they will give back, before the will of God, as the gates of night roll back before the touch of the dawn. Do not scheme, or fret, or be impatient; God is doing all to make thy life full of favor and blessing. Wait on Him, and keep His way; He will exalt thee to inherit the earth. Thou art as safe as if the gate of pearl were behind thee; thy joy cannot rust or be stolen; every wind is a south wind; every shore thy native land; every circumstance a rough packing-case containing the gifts of thy Father's love.
There may be ignorance and weakness. - But God can deal with this also. Take to Him thine imperfect apprehension, thy faltering faith, He can make right what is wrong, and adjust thee to receive all He waits to give. Heaven will be full of wonder at the way in which God has kept His word, and done all that He had promised, and more.
By F.B. Meyer, taken from "Our Daily Homily"
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Mark 4-5
Old and New Testaments Together: Isaiah 47-49 & I Thess. 4
Historical: 1 Cor. 15-16
Chronological: Matthew 9-10
Blended: I Samuel 10-12 & Eph. 5:17-33
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Such will be the summary of our lives, as we review them from the land of the sunset. We shall see plenty of our own failures, shortcomings, and sins, and sadly acknowledge them. We shall see that our unbelief and disobedience have deprived us of the enjoyment of much that God intended for us. We shall see that whatever was lacking was in no wise due to Him, but to ourselves. The land of our inheritance had been all given us in Jesus; but we suffered the lack of much, because of our failure to enter in.
There may be long delays in the fulfillment of promise. - But delays are not denials; and it is better to let the fruit ripen before you pluck it. Wait till God drops it into your hand; it will be ever so much sweeter.
There may be enemies and abstacles. - But they will give back, before the will of God, as the gates of night roll back before the touch of the dawn. Do not scheme, or fret, or be impatient; God is doing all to make thy life full of favor and blessing. Wait on Him, and keep His way; He will exalt thee to inherit the earth. Thou art as safe as if the gate of pearl were behind thee; thy joy cannot rust or be stolen; every wind is a south wind; every shore thy native land; every circumstance a rough packing-case containing the gifts of thy Father's love.
There may be ignorance and weakness. - But God can deal with this also. Take to Him thine imperfect apprehension, thy faltering faith, He can make right what is wrong, and adjust thee to receive all He waits to give. Heaven will be full of wonder at the way in which God has kept His word, and done all that He had promised, and more.
By F.B. Meyer, taken from "Our Daily Homily"
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Mark 4-5
Old and New Testaments Together: Isaiah 47-49 & I Thess. 4
Historical: 1 Cor. 15-16
Chronological: Matthew 9-10
Blended: I Samuel 10-12 & Eph. 5:17-33
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Self-Deliverance
"Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight. Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD and shun evil" (Proverbs 3:5-7).
Oswald Chambers advises, "Whenever God gives a vision to a saint, he puts the saint in the shadow of His hand, as it were, and the saint's duty is to be still and listen... When God gives a vision and darkness follows, waiting on God will bring you into accordance with the vision He has given if you await His timing. Otherwise, you try to do away with the supernatural in God's undertakings. Never try to help God fulfill His word."*
In the book of Proverbs, Solomon warns us not to rely on our own fallible wisdom while trying to do God's perfect will. God wants us to wait for His deliverance. His means of bringing us to spiritual maturity requires us to wait on His deliverance through adversity so that we will be able to discern the difference between our own self-deliverance and God's authentic deliverance in our lives.
It's a paradox but it's true: God often calls us to a ministry - then He deliberately thwarts our efforts to achieve our goals! We see it in the life of Moses. In obedience to God, Moses told Pharaoh, "Let my people go!" How did Pharaoh respond? He said, "Who is the Lord that I should obey him and let Israel go? I do not know the Lord and I will not let Israel go." Again and again, Moses returned and demanded freedom for his people. Again and again, Pharaoh refused.
God sent plague after plague upon the Egyptians. In response, Pharaoh hardened his heart and persecuted Moses and the people of Israel. So Moses complained to God, "You called me to go to Pharaoh, but You are not freeing the people!" Moses grew discouraged because God had called him to fulfill a vision - a dream of liberation for his people - and the vision seemed to die.
But God was teaching Moses and the people of Israel to persevere, to obey, and to wait upon the Lord in patient trust for God's perfect time for deliverance.
By Os Hillman, taken from "Today God Is First Volume 2"
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Mark 1-3
Old and New Testaments Together: Isaiah 45-46 & I Thess. 3
Historical: 1 Cor. 12-14
Chronological: Matthew 8;14-34 & Mark 4-5
Blended: I Samuel 7-9 & Eph. 5:1-16
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
Oswald Chambers advises, "Whenever God gives a vision to a saint, he puts the saint in the shadow of His hand, as it were, and the saint's duty is to be still and listen... When God gives a vision and darkness follows, waiting on God will bring you into accordance with the vision He has given if you await His timing. Otherwise, you try to do away with the supernatural in God's undertakings. Never try to help God fulfill His word."*
In the book of Proverbs, Solomon warns us not to rely on our own fallible wisdom while trying to do God's perfect will. God wants us to wait for His deliverance. His means of bringing us to spiritual maturity requires us to wait on His deliverance through adversity so that we will be able to discern the difference between our own self-deliverance and God's authentic deliverance in our lives.
It's a paradox but it's true: God often calls us to a ministry - then He deliberately thwarts our efforts to achieve our goals! We see it in the life of Moses. In obedience to God, Moses told Pharaoh, "Let my people go!" How did Pharaoh respond? He said, "Who is the Lord that I should obey him and let Israel go? I do not know the Lord and I will not let Israel go." Again and again, Moses returned and demanded freedom for his people. Again and again, Pharaoh refused.
God sent plague after plague upon the Egyptians. In response, Pharaoh hardened his heart and persecuted Moses and the people of Israel. So Moses complained to God, "You called me to go to Pharaoh, but You are not freeing the people!" Moses grew discouraged because God had called him to fulfill a vision - a dream of liberation for his people - and the vision seemed to die.
But God was teaching Moses and the people of Israel to persevere, to obey, and to wait upon the Lord in patient trust for God's perfect time for deliverance.
By Os Hillman, taken from "Today God Is First Volume 2"
Bible Reading Guide:
Beginning to End: Mark 1-3
Old and New Testaments Together: Isaiah 45-46 & I Thess. 3
Historical: 1 Cor. 12-14
Chronological: Matthew 8;14-34 & Mark 4-5
Blended: I Samuel 7-9 & Eph. 5:1-16
The Bible reading guides will be taken from Back to the Bible
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