Your devotion for today

We are useful (Saturday, May 19)

Even when we have been used and abused by others, we can still be useful to God. He can use us because he does not base our lives on what has happened to us or by something we have done. He is able to use us because he made us and he loves us.

God sees us for what the world cannot see. He knows our heart. He knows our true intentions. He knows who we are in his kingdom. He also knows the place he fashioned us to fill in his will for the universe.

Those who tend to judge us try to take the place of God. They think they are somehow above him—that they are greater than the creator.

We need to know that only God knows us. What he sees in us is all that matters. Our spirit, our love, our concern, and our compassion are the invisible things of his nature. These make us useful to him even when people believe we are useless to them.

Out of focus (Friday, May 18)

It does not take much for us to lose our perspective on life. We can be doing fine one minute and the next be troubled; all because of our own thoughts and outlook.

Recently, I was not feeling well, but I was doing okay. Then I received a phone call that bothered me. Still, I was pushing past my tiredness. A while later, I opened an email that sent me over the edge. Suddenly, I wanted to jump on a jet and fly away to a remote island in the Caribbean, away from everyone and everything.

We all have the same thoughts on occasion, I am sure. When you and I are ready to throw in the towel and give up, take a minute to look up. Look up to the one who created you. Look up to the one who loves you. Look up to the one who protects you.

If we are looking up at God, we will not be as concerned about what is going on down here. Simply focusing on God allows us to remain strong when everything else seems out of focus. Never give up hope in him.

A hard lesson (Thursday, May 17)

How many times today will I forget God? Will I remember him when I receive a disturbing email, when I hear an angry word, when I have to do an unpleasant chore, when I have difficulty with others, when I run into traffic, when I disagree with a co-worker?

I need to realize that God has been here already. Long before this day arrived in our lives, God knew what we are about to experience. He has prepared us and will strengthen us for what lies ahead.

Sadly, we probably will not rely on him to help us. We will set off by ourselves and attempt to handle each situation on our own. We throw away all we know about him and his power. But if we are truly a child of the most high, and if we believe he loves us, then all things will work together for good this day.

I need to spend more time praying and less time doing. I must ask him to help me even before I encounter difficulty. I can save myself much aggravation and anxiety by asking for his blessing first and then doing what he says, rather than getting into trouble and looking for him to rescue me – again. 

In times of trouble (Wednesday, May 16)

I enjoy being inside my house when it is raining. Safe from the water and cold outdoors, I can relax knowing I will not get wet. It is a secure feeling.

We should feel the same way when we seek refuge in God. We can rest comfortably, realizing that nothing can touch us. Yes, we can see the trials and difficulties everywhere we look, but for the moment we are sheltered and protected. God surrounds us on all sides.

Being in God is like being inside, away from the tempests of life. “The Lord has become my fortress, and my God the rock in whom I take refuge” (Psalm 94:22).

We never know when a storm will come up. A sudden downpour could threaten us at any moment. No matter. God is always there. He is our refuge and safety in times of trouble.

Living without (Tuesday, May 15)

We do not hear much these days about sacrificial living. Years ago, it seemed as if this popular phrase was everywhere. Pastors, lay leaders and Sunday School teachers preached the importance of living a sacrificial life. Sermons and church newsletters also stressed how we must make certain sacrifices now for our life in eternity later.

I guess this term is met today with considerable objection by almost everyone. People do not like to be told they must give up something if they want to follow Jesus. Most of us place a high value on our time, our careers, our material possessions and, especially, our money. We want to do as we please. If anything is left over, then we can give it to God.

But the whole point of sacrificial living is to give up what we want for the sake of what God wants. We should desire to please him first. If there is anything left over, then it goes to us.

By the standards of the day, Jesus was poor. Yet, he was far richer in other ways than any king or ruler on earth. We have to study and emulate his example. He knew the importance of worldly sacrifice for the greater life in heaven. He even proved it to us by dying on the cross and his resurrection three days later. It’s time we learn to live without so that others will be able to live, both here and in heaven.

Your joy (Monday, May 14)

Jesus made clear what we must do to have his love and joy. He said his love would be in us if we obeyed his commands. “I have told you this” he added, “so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete” (John 15:10-11).

His joy “may be complete” in us depending on what we do. It is not a given. We must try to be like him in every way. He always did the Father’s will. He went about healing people rather than hurting them. He was humble when he should have been exulted. He loved when he was rejected and hated. He was the least of all when he was the greatest of all.

So what must we do to experience the wholeness and fullness of his joy? Two things: obey his commands to love one another as we love God, and to live as he did. That is the formula, short and simple.

We can do it. Jesus taught us the way. As we live each day, let us put aside our agenda and replace it with his. Think of him first, before anything else. Do what he would do. It is hard, but the alternative should be much harder for us to accept. 

Up ahead (Sunday, May 13)

Sunday morning. You and I stand at the edge of a new week. Long before we got up this morning, even before we had a chance to think about these first few hours (let alone an entire week), God ordered each one of these seven days.

Years ago, before our birth, he fashioned all that will and will not happen to us. The events ahead, good and bad, are no surprise to him. He knows the plans he has for us. As we go through this week, we need to remind ourselves often that all things do indeed work together for good to those who love him. Despite setbacks and disappointments, pain or anxiety, God is there.

We can depend on him when we are weak. We can count on him when we fail. We can trust him when we lose hope. We can go to him when there is no place else to go. He promises that he will never leave us – that he will be there when we are content and when we are confused. Too many times we forget about his presence when everything is going well; we also wonder where he is when our lives go terribly wrong.

Through it all, he is there. We do not face anything alone. No matter what happens this week, God will stand with us. He will guide us, protect us, forgive us and love us. As long as we continue to trust him, we will be fine. After all is said and done, and we reach the end of this week, God will show us the goodness he planned just for these seven days in our lives. We must believe that it is so if we believe in him.

Peace or understanding? (Saturday, May 12)

We want peace in our lives, but we also want understanding. When things go wrong, we want to know why. Or when we are not able to do something which is important to us, we look up at God and wonder why. Why don’t his plans and thoughts line up with ours? In everything that happens, we seek to comprehend his ways rather than pursuing what transcends our earthly knowledge.

As rational beings, we believe there is a cause and effect for every situation: we get sick because we caught a virus from someone; we are having a difficult time at work because a co-worker is talking about us; we can’t buy a new car because the bank will not give us a loan; we are not able to take a much-needed trip because we lack money. All of these things make sense to us, even though we have trouble accepting them.

Do we feel better when we are able to explain events and situations? Maybe so. But what would give us complete satisfaction is to have peace without any necessary understanding – a peace that passes understanding, not a peace that comes from understanding. The two are very different.

God gives us a chance to go beyond our human capabilities. He allows us to experience a divine tranquility that does not depend on earthly logic. But we need to get quiet and get down on our knees in prayer. When we are silent before him, we will have the stillness that only he can give – the serenity that exceeds anything we can think or feel on our own. In his presence, nothing else should matter.

Thinking about the past (Friday, May 11)

What if? These are powerful words. They can spread doubt, worry and fear in the best of us. They are able to bring down good, loving Christians quicker than anything else in the world. In fact, this short phrase can completely destroy a life that has been uniquely fashioned by God for a great purpose. Asking ourselves what if is a most deadly game.

What if things would have turned out this way, people wonder. What if I would have done that? What if I had chosen another career? What if ___ (fill in the blank)? The question sounds innocent enough, much like a child’s simple riddle, but the effects and implications go far beyond silly amusements.

These two syllables can set in motion a whole host of lies, regrets and deceptions. In an instant, years (even decades) of faithful loyalty, hard work, service and devotion can be erased. Pondering what if rather than what was automatically thrusts us into the position of being wrong. There is no way to come out on top. We will lose every time for two reasons. First, we cannot change what has happened. Second, we cannot look back and see with total objectivity. We are examining the past from a wounded perspective; of course, we will blame ourselves.

Whenever we pause to think what if, we have already lost the battle. We have defeated ourselves without any help at all. We must make a conscious effort each moment to leave what has passed alone, especially those situations that threaten to ruin our lives right now. We cannot go on living today when we constantly say what if about yesterday. The only way we can turn our thoughts around is by thinking what if that particular event never happened? As far as God is concerned, it never did.

Doing his desire (Thursday, May 10)

Sometimes the best thing to say is to say nothing at all. Likewise, sometimes the best action is to take no action at all. Holding ourselves back from our natural feelings is not easy. We are prone to speak and then think later. We also are inclined to act and then realize we were wrong.

At heart, we are emotional beings. We are passionate about our beliefs, our desires, our needs and our thoughts. We defend ourselves and state our position without hesitation; it is an automatic response, much like a reflex. Most of us are hard-pressed to hold back when we feel strongly about an issue or matter. At times, we even surprise ourselves with how quickly we react.

What you and I need to practice is being more patient, willing to trust God more than ourselves. We must become humble, like Jesus, realizing that we can step back from adversity because God will step in with authority.

Remember what Jesus said: “Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls” (Matthew 11:29). We do not have to be restless or wrestle over anything. Jesus has the peace we seek but it requires us to be meek. Never forget that your strength is found in God, no matter how passionate you become. For in ourselves, we can accomplish very little. In the Lord, however, we can achieve everything.

As Jesus commands (Wednesday, May 9)

Where most of us find the highest challenge is in trying to square the physical world with the spiritual universe. We know tangible objects – from people to houses to cars to lakes and mountains – but we lose our way when all of these disappear.

We seem to have nothing concrete to hold on to in the spiritual realm. On our level, we find ourselves humanly incapable of comprehending the spiritual, the unseen. Even our tactile senses, which have guided us faithfully all of our lives, suddenly become useless.

Jesus told us to, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind, and love your neighbor as yourself” (Luke 10:27). We understand what it means to love our neighbors. But how do we love a God we cannot see?

The answer is to allow him to lead the way in every way: what we do, where we go, what we say and how we act. Whenever we yield ourselves to him, he is able to direct our heart, soul, strength and mind. With him guiding our lives, in spite of what we are going through or undergoing, we can love God in a spiritual way as Jesus said.

Freedom to live (Tuesday, May 8)

How much are you willing to forgive? Many of us put limits on our forgiveness. Certain things we are able to get over while some hurts never go away.

You and I would do well to learn a lesson from the police officer in North Carolina who has been paralyzed from the chest down for two decades. He was shot by three teenagers and he has forgiven them all. He holds no anger or hatred toward any of the boys even though they are now out of jail.

When he accidentally encountered one of the men at a grocery store about 18 years later, he chose to talk with him rather than attack him. Believe it or not, this former cop counts himself a very fortunate person simply because he has been able to be alive for the past 20 years.

This kind of forgiveness is what Jesus meant when he told Peter to forgive seven times seven (Matthew 18:22). Over and over again, we have to forgive others. Forgiveness gives us the freedom to live. Anger puts us in prison.

Your perfect plan (Monday, May 7)

Jesus’ journey was perfect. The years of his ministry were divinely ordained and every step put him in the right place at the right time. Nothing happened by happenstance.

From the time he was born until his death on the cross, the Father was in control. Each miracle was planned to bring glory to the kingdom: restoring the widow’s son to life, feeding the 5,000, turning water into wine, healing the blind man, curing the centurion’s son, raising Lazarus from the dead, and the thousands of other acts of restoration that must have occurred.

“For I have come down from heaven not to do my will but to do the will of him who sent me,” Jesus said (John 6:38). Our lives are the same. God has a plan and a purpose for each one of us at each moment, if we only listen and follow the will of him who sent us.

Forever with Jesus (Sunday, May 6)

Sometimes we are tempted to want what someone else possesses. We may desire another person’s life or work. Maybe it is something material: we want a car like the person next door or a house like theirs. We might hope for more money and time off for a vacation in the islands. Perhaps we long simply for new clothes.

Whatever we want at this moment is taking us in the wrong direction. What about what we have? Look at your life and really realize all that God has given you. I challenge you to count all of your blessings rather than weighing all of your wishes.

It is good to have hopes and dreams – in God. Not in ourselves. Look up and see what we have. And this same God who takes care of me, Paul told the Philippians, will supply all your needs from his glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus.

We already have everything. We have it through Jesus Christ. What more could we want? There is nothing that can even compare to our salvation. Let’s not waste our precious time on earth by thinking about what we want now. Let’s focus on living forever with our Lord.

Because we belong (Saturday, May 5)

People may prefer one individual over another, but God does not. He loves all persons with the same care and compassion as his son. No matter what race or color, God created them all. And he sent his son to die for everyone.

John 3:16 is a constant reminder to us. “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” Sometimes we gloss over the magnitude of this verse of scripture. We never stop long enough to think about what we have been given.

God sent Jesus, his one son, to live and die in this sinful world. He did so for one reason and one reason only: to save us. All we have to do is to believe in Jesus and be willing to follow him. Then we will never perish. Then we will have eternal life.

We cannot explain it. We cannot understand it. We cannot even describe it. Therein lies the beauty and greatness of God’s love. He gives us something we do not deserve simply because we belong to him.

A holy and righteous gift (Friday, May 4)

What good is a gift if we give it for the wrong reason? I waste my time (and money) if I buy a present for someone and I do so out of obligation rather than appreciation. My gesture is false and meaningless. It accounts for nothing. I need to give with a willing spirit, one that is not bound by duty.

In much the same way, we have a habit of offering our lives and tithes to God each week when we really need to take care of other business first. What about the person we offended a few days ago or the relative we upset with our harsh criticism? We cannot offer anything to God while we have anger, hate, anxiety or condemnation in our heart.

We need to be pure and clean as we approach God. “If you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you,” Jesus said. “Leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift” (Matthew 5:23-24).

Perhaps we have to apologize to someone for something that was not our fault. Maybe we need to keep trying to help that person who does not want our help. It could be that we have to stop talking about people behind their backs. Whatever the offense, make amends. Then go and make your holy and righteous gifts to the Lord.

Inherit the earth (Thursday, May 3)

Being meek is not a trait most people desire. Instead, individuals everywhere want to be noticed and recognized for who they are and what they have done. People want titles, honors and awards – anything to show their greatness.

But Jesus said, “Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth” (Matthew 5:5). He did not mean we are to let others walk all over us or control us. Nor was he suggesting that we cower to everyone and in every situation. Jesus wants us to be humble and patient.

I have worked with persons who constantly boasted about their valuable accomplishments. I even had a barber years ago who carried around a list of famous persons with whom he had shaken hands. At the time, I have to admit I was a little jealous. Now I realize that this man’s renowned handshakes were a way of making himself feel important.

When we are meek (humble and patient) with others, God will make us what he wants us to be. Our humility in the world will count for much more in the kingdom. You and I will “inherit the earth.” That is to say, we will have everything we need in life when we give control of our life to God.

On earth as in heaven (Wednesday, May 2)

What will one day make us happy in heaven can make us happy right now. It all depends on whether we are living by the virtues implanted in us at birth. We mean such things as justice, prudence, honesty and truth. These eternal qualities give our physical lives significance and remembrance well beyond the grave.

As a master’s student at Cambridge, John Milton wrote that, “Nothing can rightly be considered as contributing to our happiness unless it somehow looks both to that everlasting life as well as to our life as citizens of this world” (Seventh Prolusion, 1632). He does not refer to money, possessions, houses or land. None of these will count for anything in heaven.

In paradise, what will matter are the intangible values we have on earth. According to St. Paul, the highest Christian virtues are faith, hope and love. “But the greatest of these,” he said, “is love” (1 Corinthians 13:13).

Living with love, faith and hope will lead to our happiness both now and later. If we take time to love others, to have faith in his word and to place hope in where this earthly journey is headed, then we can realize true joy – the same as that in heaven. The reason is simple: the divine goodness of God governs his entire universe whether here on earth or in heaven.

A warranty (Tuesday, May 1) 

God guarantees everlasting life. All we need to do is accept it and ask that we be forgiven. There is no need to worry or wonder about our salvation.

Most everything we buy today comes with a one-year warranty. If we want longer protection, we need to pay more. We have the option of choosing warranties for two, three and four years on stereos, stoves, refrigerators, microwaves and computers. Sooner or later, though, the guarantee will expire and the product will have to be replaced. Then we start the process all over again.

With God, we never have to be concerned. Once we decide to follow him, our salvation is assured forever. We can never lose it even if we make mistakes or make the wrong choices as we go through life. His promises to us do not expire – ever. We have his written word.
 
We need more Noahs (Monday, April 30)

God can only use us as followers when we refuse to follow the world. We must be willing to forsake everything, including human companionship, to be his trusted disciples.

Do you think you could be as faithful as Noah? In 2 Peter 2, he is identified as the “preacher of justice.” We know he tried to warn people about God’s impending judgment. They did not listen and went about their sinful lives as usual. Noah likely was derided and mocked as he built the ark. Imagine the names they called him.

Noah was castigated, cut off from everyone except his immediate family. All the while, God was with Noah; he was not alone. He toiled day after day for decades to follow God’s instructions for each cubit and ell. As much as a century later, Noah’s neighbors finally realized he knew what he was doing.

Do not feel rejected or despised when you are doing what the Lord has called you to do. Others may not understand. They may not recognize your efforts. They may even make fun of you. Sooner or later, though, they will be shocked and surprised when God shows them they are wrong.

God will avenge (Sunday, April 29)

How many incidents could have been avoided if people would have thought before they acted? David might never have committed adultery. Jonah probably would not have found himself in the belly of a whale. Adam and Eve undoubtedly would not have eaten from the tree.

The consequences of our actions are the farthest thing from our minds. We speak before we think. We attack before we reason, and we follow feelings over common sense. If only we would pause for a minute before taking matters into our own hands and out of God’s hand.

David’s lust resulted in the murder of Bathsheba’s husband. Jonah’s defiance nearly caused the deaths of dozens of sailors. Adam and Eve’s temptation sentenced all mankind to suffer death.

We all have made mistakes, big and small, because we did not look before we leaped. We jumped headlong into a pit of regret. St. Paul tells us what we need to do. “Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: ‘It is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ says the Lord” (Romans: 12:19). In order for God to do what is right we have to avoid doing what is wrong.

Grace of friendship (Saturday, April 28)

After he had been with them a long while, Jesus told his closest disciples that they were prepared to do greater things. “I no longer call you servants because a servant does not know his master's business,” Jesus said. “Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you” (John 15:15).

No longer are they mere servants. Now they are part of the kingdom. They know what Jesus knows. They can do what he does. They are ready to continue his work, for he has taught them all he has learned from the Father.

Jesus’ choice of words is interesting. From this time forward, he will call them friends. After being together for more than two years, a spiritual bond has formed among them. They have become more than companions and followers. They are individuals who have been joined together by God to form one body and purpose.

Think about what it means to be called a friend of Jesus. What an honor and a privilege. It is not something we truly deserve. But that is what friendship is all about – being loved, respected and protected without having to earn it or do anything for it. Quite simply, it is the grace of friendship from our Savior.

Texting the word (Friday, April 27)

Technology has created a whole new universe. All kinds of data are available in the clouds. Revolutionary mobile machines have the capability of six standard devices: phone, television, Internet, email, camera and video. There is even a different way of communicating, especially in the world of texting.

Abbreviations take the place of phrases. We have acronyms like HAND (have a nice day), LOL (laughing out loud), AAMOF (as a matter of fact), ADBB (all done bye bye), BRB (be right back), CUOL (see you online), NIMY (never in a million years), POV (point of view), SLAP (sounds like a plan) and hundreds more.

I am sure someday that someone will be able to text the entire Bible using an innovative series of letters and numbers. At that point, we would all probably need a texting dictionary to understand what is going on.

The amazing thing about God’s word is that it speaks to everyone, from children to scholars and all those in between like you and me. It does not require a degree to comprehend John 3:16 or the story of Jesus dying on the cross. All it takes is what we can all do: trust what God says and promises – TWGSAP.

Routine or risk? (Thursday, April 26)

On occasion, I have difficulty going beyond myself. I tend to become comfortable with the way things are and I get used to a certain routine. But I believe the Lord always wants us to reach higher than ourselves. He calls us to leave our life of safety and security – to take risks in his name.

Peter did not realize what the Lord could do through him until he stepped out of the boat. Moses did not know how God could use him until he arrived in Pharaoh’s court. Noah had no idea what the Lord was about to do with him until the rains came.

Whenever we step forward in the name of God, we may at times fall a little short. We never fail, however, in God’s eyes. He can use us even when we think we are useless. He will show what he is able to accomplish if only we let him work through us. All he asks is our willingness to trust him.

I can think of many things in my own life that prove what God can do through one small person. The fact that I am who I am today is because of him. I know he wants to accomplish even more through me and through you as well. The end result depends on how much faith we have in him. The greater our trust, the more he can do.

Doing what we said (Wednesday, April 25)

The Lord promises his protection, love and care countless times throughout the Bible. We have learned, too, we can trust him because of all he has done for us already. We also know how the full story of our journey will end – with all of us in paradise with him.

Yet, how often do we beg him for a sign, maybe many signs, that he has not forgotten us? When the least little thing goes awry we start to doubt. In no time at all, we convince ourselves God has suddenly disappeared; he is not listening or he does not care. We joke that maybe he is on vacation, but we are serious.

When I accepted another job far away from my hometown, I immediately began to wonder if I heard God correctly. I asked for confirmation. Our two-story house sold in three days. Still, I doubted. I longed for more proof from God. We found another place to live right away in the new city. I continued to question if the move was his will. Then my wife found a job before we moved; she would be working at the same university as me. Finally, I was convinced.

I should have had the faith to believe him in the first place. “Never will I leave you,” God said. “Never will I forsake you” (Hebrews 13:5). The key word here is, of course, never. What he says, he means. What he means, he will do. Let us do what we said we would do: trust him. Didn’t we promise to do that when we accepted Jesus Christ?

Nothing in being anxious (Tuesday, April 24)

It is amazing how out of control some people can become even when they proclaim to believe God is in control. All of us, myself included, can easily become nervous and upset. The fact is we can make ourselves anxious without anyone being around to set us off.

There was a time when a woman stormed into my office the first thing in the morning. She shouted all kinds of accusations at me the minute she walked through the door. I was shocked by her angry screams and bizarre behavior. There was no doubt what this “Christian” woman was thinking as she drove to work. She literally exploded right in front of me!

Good thing I was too shocked to say anything back. Otherwise I might have told her how I felt. This incident troubled me for the rest of the day.

Jesus said, “Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything” (Philippians 4:6). I should have spent more time praying that morning and less time worrying. There is tremendous power in prayer. There is nothing in being anxious.

Our house and his (Monday, April 23)

Each Sunday, and often throughout the week, people everywhere go to the house of God. They go to praise, worship, meet and pray. We love being in his house.

If we think about it, though, we are always in God’s house whether at church or at home. Aren’t our own houses – the ones in which we dwell daily – also houses of God? We can do all of the same things where we live as we do in a corporate building with a congregation. We can praise, worship, meet and pray with those who mean the most to us.

God’s house is his house as well as our house. Wherever we find ourselves, we also need to remember the most important element is God. Psalm 127:1 reminds us that, "Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain."

He must be at the center of any building we do, be it in our personal lives or in our physical dwellings. Every place is God’s house.

Giving away our lives (Sunday, April 22)
 
We have a great responsibility to raise one another in the faith. This element, it seems to me, is much more important than seeing to our own needs. When we dedicate ourselves to the welfare and care of those around us, we bring our own lives closer to spiritual maturity. Just as Jesus served his father, we need to serve Jesus.

Without a servant’s heart, we are not truly a part of the kingdom. We cannot claim to be Christians unless we are willing to give away more of our lives than we keep.

When I reach the point where I want to surrender all that I have for Jesus, I will start to understand the spiritual nature of God’s world. The truth is that the purpose and meaning of my life is in what I do for God. If I am serving him as I should, I should not have to worry about satisfying myself. He will fulfill all of my needs in the same manner he did for Jesus.

Connected (Saturday, April 21)

Many times in my career as a teacher, I have used various devices and equipment in the classroom. Projectors, tape recorders and computers are great tools to aid in teaching about a subject. Just recently, I was having trouble with a CD player. No matter what I did, it would not work. Finally, after much frustration and anxiety, I discovered that the unit was unplugged.

Often, we come unplugged from Jesus. We need and require him in order to function. He is the source of our strength, wisdom and power. “You can do nothing without me,” Jesus said. Indeed, we cannot do anything of eternal worth, in or for the kingdom, outside of our Savior. We always need to be connected to him.

I have to admit that I sometimes go through the motions, thinking I have done all of the right things in my life, but still I am not effective. I have no power. Without God, I cannot do anything. He is all powerful and I require his energy. He is the source. I need to be plugged in to him each minute of the day. Otherwise, I am like that unplugged CD player: useless and lifeless.

Righting a wrong (Friday, April 20)

Some people go through each day looking for a fight. I was once one of those persons. Somehow I found great delight in upsetting others. Perhaps the reason behind my attitude was the fact that I was unhappy; therefore, I wanted everyone else to be miserable as well.

I have changed, but I know individuals who have not. They continue to be mean-spirited and contentious. My difficulty now is in how to deal with them. Ironically, it still has to do with changing my behavior, not theirs.

Jesus said, “Do not resist an evil person. If someone strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also” (Matthew 5:39). We must follow what he says. Above all, we must strive for peace by loving even those who oppose or offend us.

We cannot afford to repay a wrong with a wrong. The cost is too high both for the other person and for us. The right thing to do is to do nothing and to let God step in. He knows the best way to handle evil.

Shielding us (Thursday, April 19)

The Lord’s discipline and correction are necessary. As he reproves, he always protects. Not only did God guide and chastise the Hebrews, leading them out of bondage from Egypt, he also kept them safe and secure. They had water, food, shelter, clothing and shoes for 40 years in the desert.

As much as we hate to admit it, we want God’s correction in our lives. For us as human beings, it is a sign that he cares enough to chide us. He does not walk away when we fail to obey. He gently takes us by the hand and leads us in the proper path. All the while, he keeps us out of harm’s way by holding on to us.

In Psalm 23, David wrote that “thy rod and thy staff, they comfort me.” The rod of the Lord drives us in his direction while the staff keeps danger away. Throughout the journey, God comforts us with his authority and sway over all things.

We need to let him correct us when he must. When he does, let us be thankful that he is shielding us from serious injury.

Empty and alone (Wednesday, April 18)

I wondered why as I slowly read the death notice. An 11-month-old girl had died in a nearby community. The picture next to the article showed her sweet face, smiling and so full of life. Now she was gone.

How the parents must be grieving. They would never see her grow up, go to school, graduate, get married and have children of her own. Through the tears, it would be hard (if not impossible) for this mother and father to understand why God allowed their precious little girl – a child he created – to die.

We all have times when we question God. We become puzzled and confused over what he is doing or not doing. We ask him why, but there are no answers. Only silence.

How God must cry and mourn for us on such occasions. He aches, too, because he knows we cannot understand what has happened and because we are suffering. All we can try to do is believe in him. Psalm 141:8 says, “In you do I trust and take refuge." We need to trust him and take refuge in him. Both are important. One without the other will make us feel empty and alone.

Two words to remember (Tuesday, April 17)

Life is a matter of choices. Where we go to church, who we call our friends, what sorts of clothes we wear, how we talk to others, what we eat each day and so on – all of these involve decisions. We have to make a conscious judgment as to what we think is right.

But how do we choose? Do we reach a conclusion based on what we want, how we feel, what people think or what is best for us? Chances are we usually avoid what we should do because of our own close-mindedness. We listen to ourselves rather than the Lord.

God reminds us that there are serious consequences to each one of our decisions: “This day I call the heavens and the earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live” (Deuteronomy 30:19).

Choosing what God wants produces blessings and fruitfulness in all areas. Anything else creates enmity because we cut ourselves off from him. To make sure we understand the point, God tells us clearly which decision is the proper one. “Choose life,” he says. These two words can make all the difference in what happens today.

The meaning in service (Monday, April 16)

The word service means many things to different people. Everywhere we go we are concerned about service. Where would our lives be, whether inside the church or out in the community, without people serving others?

I believe that the most important people in our world are those who receive the least attention and recognition. Think of what our cities would look like without those who collect the garbage. What about those who maintain and clean buildings for businesses? Then there are the servers at restaurants – persons who go out of their way to make sure we have a pleasant and enjoyable experience. So, too, we cannot overlook newspaper carriers; all of the time, effort and money by thousands of people would go to waste if the newspaper was never delivered.

Too often we do not take time to think about what others do for us. What is more important is what we do for others. There is a reason why Jesus spent his life serving people wherever he went. He was trying to show us how to find meaning in life. “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave. Just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many” (Matthew 20:26-28).

We need to give up our one life to serve many lives. One person can make a difference. Jesus proved it and so have countless others throughout history. When we start helping those we meet we suddenly realize that we are being helped by God. He blesses us with worth and importance in his kingdom, where it really matters most.

Where he leads (Sunday, April 15)

The greatest part of following God is the journey. Each moment brings something new and different, yet there is constant comfort and refuge in his presence. Illness may come, rejection may attack, depression may overwhelm, loneliness may strike and tragedy may occur. None of these, however, can penetrate God’s defense.

He is our rock, our fortress, our stronghold. In him, we find peace no matter where we go or what we experience. His infinite and invisible love surrounds us. He carries us from place to place on the road he has created for us. His rod and staff offer direction. Though we may walk through the valley of the shadow of death, we should fear no evil. A shadow cannot harm us.

God is the gentle shepherd who leads his people beside the still waters and on paths of righteousness. We are restored for his sake, not for that of the world. Even goodness and mercy guard us from behind. Nothing can harm us for we are safe in his company.

We should not want for anything else this day. We are protected by his own grace and favor. God has chosen us for his purpose and for his name’s sake. You and I lack nothing because we are made complete in him.

Number your days (Saturday, April 14)

"For a little while longer I am with you,” Jesus said to the disciples. “Then I go to him who sent me” (John 7:33). The Gospel of John records nine separate instances when Jesus told his followers that time was short and he would be going away soon. The first occasion comes, according to scholars, well into his ministry and the last right before his death.

His message, though, seemed to fall on deaf ears. Even at the Last Supper, they turn to him and say they don’t understand what he is talking about. Each one of them thought Jesus would be with them forever. They could not imagine a time without him.

So it is with us. We think about those whom we love and we do not give a second thought about any of them dying someday. We have the illusion they will always be here.

Seventy, eighty or ninety years may seem like an eternity to us but, measured by God’s true infinity, we are on earth for only a short time. Time will never stand still. Nor can we get it back, despite our deepest yearnings. We must make sure we make the most of the moments we are given. “Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom” (Psalm 90:12). May this verse be our solemn prayer each and every second.

Out of context (Friday, April 13)

What we are told sometimes is not always the truth. Yet, we are easily persuaded that all those who teach and preach are interpreting God’s promises correctly. We are too eager to take what we hear as gospel when it may not reflect what God meant at all.

How many times have you and I heard that God will heal any disease, repair any marriage, save any child from dying, return anyone to good health, restore any and all lost finances, take a company out of bankruptcy, make us prosper beyond anything we can imagine and even remove any problem or addiction we are experiencing?

Many individuals think they are doing right when they tell us to “name it and claim it.” Unfortunately, God does not do what we tell him to do. He is able and powerful enough to accomplish whatever we ask – more than we can ever dream – but it must be his will not ours.

His promises are true. His strength is sure. His love is certain. Let us be careful that we do not take the Lord’s Word out of context. He never vowed to do anything we ask by simply invoking the name of his son. First and foremost, we must declare it in accordance with his purpose and will. Then we have to trust him to do what is best. Finally, we have to believe what Paul said in Romans 8:28: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”

Like Daniel (Thursday, April 12)

From an early age, we are told about the account of Daniel in the lions’ den. Miraculously, Daniel was not harmed or killed by the lions during an entire night in the den. God had sent an angel to shut the mouths of the lions and keep Daniel safe.

The amazing part of this story is what happened before King Darius had him thrown into the lair. Daniel refused to forsake his God in spite of a decree that all persons were required to pray to the king only. For 30 days, anyone found worshiping another god or human being would be punished.

Daniel, however, remained faithful. “Three times a day he got down on his knees and prayed, giving thanks to his God, just as he had done before” (Daniel 6:10). He did not fear what could and would surely happen to him. He trusted God.

Are you as daring as Daniel, willing to stand up for God and to go against worldly consequences? I recall the opening words of a powerful hymn: “Stand up, stand up for Jesus, ye soldiers of the cross.” Like Daniel, let us continue to praise our Lord no matter what. May we always have the courage to glorify the one who gives us life now and forever.

Our real name (Wednesday, April 11)

How we are known in the kingdom of God is much different than how we are known in the world. People may know us by name – Jeannine, Bill, Marilyn, Joe, Elinor – but God knows us by our frame; that is, our condition or state as his servants.

Throughout the Old Testament, the names of individuals had specific meanings. According to Smith’s Bible Dictionary, Samson meant sunshine or like the sun. Job stood for persecuted. Esther was a star. Naomi was defined as my delight. Eve signified life. David connoted well-beloved. Ezekiel represented strength of God.

Perhaps your given name means something. But our cognomen or surname is the same. We all belong to the family of God. “My sheep listen to my voice,” Jesus said. “I know them, and they follow me” (John 10:27).

Are we following our Lord as we should? I wonder what our name really stands for in his kingdom. If we want to be counted as his children, then our actions always need to reflect our Father’s name – our true family name. We have to embody his love, his forgiveness and his kindness Keep in mind, too, that our deeds reveal what our name means to others.

Who isn't answering? (Tuesday, April 10)

Have you ever asked the Lord for something and wondered why he did not answer you? Perhaps God did respond; however, it was not exactly what you were seeking. The whole problem could be you and me, not God. We might have had our heart set on our needs, and we did not hear his reply.

You and I are like the rich young man who came to Jesus one day, asking how he could receive eternal life. Jesus told him simply to obey the commandments: do not murder, do not commit adultery, do not steal, do not give false testimony, honor your father and mother, and love your neighbor as yourself. “I have kept all of these,” he said. “What do I lack?”

Jesus answered with words the wealthy man did not want to hear: “If you want to be perfect, sell your possessions and give to the poor. Then, come and follow me.” Jesus did not tell him what he hoped. Sadly, the man turned and walked away, even though Jesus showed him the true way to heaven.

Are we guilty of being like this? Do we turn away from God because we do not hear what we want to hear? We claim God has not answered us because he did not give us our way. Jesus said what was best for this young man. He does the same for us as well, telling us the truth in each situation. Before we rush to judgment and claim God isn’t answering our prayers, let us make sure we are not the ones who fail to respond.

Live as you believe (Monday, April 9)

The four gospels preach the good news of salvation – the powerful message of Christ’s life, death and resurrection. We are part of his gospel, for we are part of his body and part of his kingdom. We are living, walking, breathing gospels who tell the greatest story in world.

God has chosen us to continue his work on earth. We are here because of him and that is part of the good news we have to share. Our gospel is the same as that of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, except that we are writing the story with our life rather than through the written word.

My life and yours are a testimony to what Jesus did centuries ago. It is up to us now to spread his good news today. We are ambassadors sent here by God. We have to show the people at work, school, the mall, on the streets and in our cars.

We have God’s own story – the God-spel (good message) as it was known in the Old English – to tell. Therefore, let us live as we believe.

things each day (Sunday, April 8)

You and I might wonder why the disciples were so shocked when they found out the tomb was empty. After all, Jesus had told them many times that he would rise again in three days. Yet, they were still surprised when he suddenly appeared among them.

I doubt that our reaction would be any different. Even today, with all we know about the Lord, we are amazed when he performs a miracle right before our eyes. We should not be startled when a person we know is healed of an incurable disease. Nor should we be stunned when we ask God for the impossible and it happens!

Time and time again, Jesus performed signs and wonders to show the world the great things that God could do. We have the stories of the eyewitnesses who were there watching Jesus and we know what he has done in our own lives all through the years.

This Easter Sunday, may we celebrate the risen Christ. But may we do so believing that he is constantly alive and at work on our behalf. Everything he does comes from the Father and brings glory to the Father. May we come to expect great things each day of the year.

Going our own way (Saturday, April 7)

How eager are we to wash one another’s feet? After Jesus had washed the feet of each one of his disciples at the Last Supper, he turned to them and said, “Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you” (John 13:14-15).

Jesus was not speaking figuratively. He meant it literally – that they should wash the feet of each other. This custom, a sign of hospitality and welcome, had been practiced throughout the East since the time of Abraham.

Today, however, we are not so willing to do the same. There is no need to wash feet anymore, but what about doing something else for others? Do we help those who are as close to us as next door? Sometimes we are not even comfortable with aiding those in our own church, the ones whom we are supposed to love as much as we love God.

We have Jesus’ example right in front of us. What are we to do? Either we obey or disobey. Either we go by what our Lord and Teacher did, becoming humble servants, or we go our own way.

The path to paradise (Friday, April 6)

Each day has its own value and worth. For the Christian, though, Friday should be one of the most important days of the week because it was on a Friday when Jesus was crucified. From earliest times, the Church has set aside one special day out of the year to mark his death. It is known as Great Friday, Holy Friday and Good Friday.

The origin of the term Good Friday is uncertain, but it likely means good as in deserving or worthy of respect. There is even a German term for Good Friday that is translated as Sorrowful Friday. Whatever name we use, every Friday should remind us of what Jesus did for us.

We should remember the terrible pain and suffering. For the moment, let us not look too far beyond the grave. Yes, he will rise again after three days. But think of what he must endure before his victory over the grave. In addition to physical torture, he also must be separated from the Father as he takes on the sin of the entire universe.

What darkness he must have felt, having lost his divinity for our sake; having to die so that we might live. We owe him everything, yet he asks for nothing. Only that we will follow him. Jesus has paved the way for us, and all we have to do is remain on the path that leads to paradise.

Be fully awake (Thursday, April 5)

Why is it so hard for us to do what Jesus commands? All we have to do is follow his instructions. There is no decision to be made, yet we frequently do the wrong things.

The apostle Mark tells us about Jesus in the garden the night before his crucifixion. He asked Peter, James and John to stay near him and pray. Three times he returned and he found them asleep. The second time this happened, Mark says, “they did not know what to say to him.”

So it is with us. “The spirit is willing, but the body is weak,” Jesus said (Mark 14:38). There are always acts we commit without any intention. Our body takes over and, in an instant, we “fall into temptation.”

We must always be fully awake if we want to do the right thing. We cannot afford to let go of our focus on Jesus, not even for an instant. For in that brief second, Satan can distract us and make us follow his fleshly will.

Words like incense (Wednesday, April 4)

The full fragrance of the world is all around us in the sweetness of freshly cut grass, the intoxicating scent of honeysuckles, the aroma of rain on the trees and the perfume of spring blossoms. Odors everywhere allow us to experience the deep down beauty of God’s earth.

Our sense of smell is one of the most acute faculties we possess. The ability to smell comes, of course, from God in the first place. In fact, he told Moses to build a Golden Altar of Incense where, “Aaron must burn fragrant incense on the altar every morning when he tends the lamps. He must burn incense again when he lights the lamps at twilight so incense will burn regularly before the Lord for the generations to come” (Exodus 30: 7-8).

God enjoyed smelling the herbs and spices he created. Some, in fact, were so sacred to him that they could be burned only on the altar. This daily act pleased the Lord and reminded the people of his all-consuming presence in their daily lives.

As we go through this day, may we take time to “smell the roses” and all of the many other things that God offers us. Take in the incense of the Lord’s world and realize what the psalmist meant when he said, “Let my prayer be set before you like incense” (Psalm 141:2). To God, even our words are sacred and sweet.

Climbing higher (Tuesday, April 3)

Whatever stands in your way right now should not matter. Jesus said we would encounter trials and tribulations. He experienced much trouble and he wanted to prepare us for life in this world. Jesus never wasted time worrying or fretting. He knew God was in charge.  

Maybe you are concerned about your health, money, school, work or a person you love dearly. Rather than suffering, let God lift you up out of doubt and anxiety.

Occasionally, I feel like a plane going through heavy turbulence. I am knocked about by forces I cannot see or control. The only way for me to find peace is to go higher, above the storms and clouds. We have to do the same in our personal lives – to rise above the obstacles that threaten our safety and security.

As long as we listen to Jesus, and follow his example, we will find the comfort we need. He will always help us climb above the confusion and turmoil of everyday difficulties.

Talking up or talking down (Monday, April 2)

Let’s be honest and admit it. We love to gossip. For some reason, most of us find delight in talking about others. Perhaps it is the intrigue or the news that captures our attention. Maybe we feel better about ourselves when we can demean those next to us.

Gossip comes in all forms, from saying “She has a good heart, but....” to “We need to pray for him because….” We try to hide or conceal our comments by covering them with good intentions. We may fool the rest of the world, but God can see right through our words. He can peer directly down into the center of our heart. He sees the core, and he knows our thoughts even before we think them.

Ironically, we can praise God at one moment and destroy someone the next. With the same tongue we glorify God and criticize our neighbors. Our praise to the Lord means nothing when it is mixed with hateful thoughts about a sister or brother.

We are no longer children. We have grown up and it is time for us to talk like mature adults, servants of God. We need to be people who love and forgive, not people who put down and condemn. Rather than hurting someone, we should be seeking ways to help them find the healing they need.

Tomorrow's promise (Sunday, April 1)

The most important day in the Church calendar, for me at least, is Maundy (or Holy) Thursday. This time marks the pivotal point in the entire life of Christ. All that has come before and all that will follow culminate on that solemn day.

The word we use is from the Old English term maunde, a ceremonial washing of the feet, and the Latin mandatum, meaning mandate or command as in “A new command I give you. Love one another” (John 13:34).

In washing the disciples’ feet, sharing a (communion) meal with them and giving them a new commandment, Jesus shows why he has come. This very night ends his ministry on earth and begins his painful journey back to eternity.

It is a sad day, indeed, but one that is filled with blissful hope for tomorrow’s promise.

Knowing more than we see (Saturday, March 31)

What if we were there . . . on the day when Jesus was crucified? Would we have fought off the Roman guards? Would we have tried to take Our Master down? Would we have run away in fear of our own life?

Knowing what we know today, we probably would have stayed with our Savior at the foot of the cross until he died. Then, like Joseph of Arimathea, we would have asked for the body and buried Jesus.

All the while, our utter horror would be mingled with exalted joy because we would know, for sure, what would happen in three days.

Even though Jesus told his followers what would occur, there must have been a certain amount of doubt as they watched the body die. Perhaps it was much like us today who witness the passing of a loved one and know that the next step is eternity. We always have to believe the word of God in spite of what we see with our eyes.

Proving himself over and over (Friday, March 30)

To the untrained and unknowing eye, certain events seem nothing more than coincidence. Say you are thinking about someone and suddenly this person calls. You hear your favorite song on the radio when you are depressed. You find something you thought was lost forever. Whatever the circumstance, nothing is accidental. All happens according to God’s plan and not by luck or good fortune.

“I know the plans I have for you," says the Lord. “Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future” (Jeremiah 29:11). Our lives follow a divine order even though we may not see it at times.

How could I have seen that giving seminars in a retirement center would lead to my mother living there 15 years later? How could I have known that moving to another state for a job would lead me to earn a doctorate in what I loved doing – to write. How could I have predicted that my junior high school sweetheart would be my soul mate for the past 40 years? But most remarkable of all is this: that I would one day write and publish a book of devotions. Those who knew me in my twenties would be shocked today.

God has planned out our entire life, from beginning to end. While we might try to dismiss odd occurrences as chance, there is nothing random about his way. He has a purpose for each situation. He proves it to us time after time every day.

Selling ourselves short (Thursday, March 29)

To look at them, you would have sworn they were the same. Both had been chosen by Jesus. Both had followed him. Both had listened to his teachings. Both were there when he healed the sick and fed the multitudes. Both deserted their master in the end. One betrayed him for money. The other betrayed him to escape harm.

The four gospels tell us much about Peter, but very little about Judas Iscariot. He was different from the others. All were Galileans, except this one. He also was the only disciple who complained that Mary had wasted costly perfume – “worth a year’s wages” – when she anointed Jesus’s feet.

There was another difference that ran much deeper: his character. Judas’ nature was far from godlike. While he appeared to be a faithful servant, John tells us that he was little more than a thief. John explains that Judas did not say the perfume should have been sold and given to the poor because he cared about them. “But because he was a thief; as keeper of the money bag, he used to help himself to what was put into it” (John 12:4-6).

In the end, money meant more to Judas than his own life. The same might be true of you and me at times, especially when we are in dire straits. Let’s not sell our soul over a few pieces of silver, whether that means forgiving others or confessing our own sins. If we want to be like Jesus then we have to look and act like him, no matter what the cost. 

Having a glad heart (Wednesday, March 28)

Praising God continuously transforms and renews us. In an instant, we can be new creatures in him. When we lift our hearts, hands, voices, minds and bodies – all that we are and have – toward God, we set ourselves free from the earthly problems that so often beset us. Our perspective on life shifts dramatically because we are taking time to experience the full glory of God. Being grateful for the great works he has done shows us, proves to us, how much we have been blessed.

Nothing else matters when we live each moment through the presence of God. He is all we see and hear as we go through the day. If we encounter trouble, we realize our entire life will not fall apart. If we do not feel well, we know God will heal us. If we lack strength and energy, we have faith he will help us. If we are depressed, we understand he will lift us. If we are anxious, we believe he will calm us. If we feel grief and sorrow, we remember he will comfort us.

Worshipping and praising God are not hard, yet they do not come easily. Sometimes we must fight our way through hatred, regret, suffering and stubbornness. On occasion, we must battle even harder with feelings of anger toward God.

We need to know, and remind ourselves over and over again, God is good. He has given us the gift of life and the grace of his love. We can praise him for these two things alone; yet, how much more he has done for you and me. No matter what this day brings, we are able to give thanks. We praise him with a glad heart, confident that he walks with us because we see all his blessings.

Unseen power (Tuesday, March 27)

Life is a very difficult path for us to follow at times, but the Lord always has a plan and a purpose.

One of the hardest things I have had to do is to watch my mother die. She was 85 and her body was wearing down. The doctors explained there was little more they could do. She had to make a choice: whether to continue medication and treatment for the diseases or to be made comfortable for her remaining days. During the previous two months, she had been in and out of the hospital three times. She was tired and had reached the point where she wanted to be comfortable.

The next four days were her last. Our family stayed with her hour after hour. Even though her eyes were closed most of the time, we knew Mom could sense our presence. All too soon, on a peaceful Saturday afternoon, she let out a final, soft breath. She gently closed her mouth and her life in this world ended.

At that moment, there was a stillness that enveloped us in the room. It was both comforting and familiar, a presence of complete peace that words alone cannot describe. I experienced first-hand what Paul meant when he wrote, “For when I am weak, then I am strong” (2 Corinthians 12:10).

A Bible in New York (Monday, March 26)

God uses whatever we give him, large or small: our time, our service, our work and our hands. He can even use what we own if we let him.

I often wonder where my old pocket Bible is today. I took my favorite Bible on a mission trip to New York City about 15 years ago. At a soup kitchen, I met a homeless man who asked for something religious to read. I said I would find brochures or tracts, but there was nothing anywhere in the tiny Chinatown church.

After I told him the sad news, I heard the Holy Spirit whisper: “Give him your Bible.” “But this is my Bible,” I argued. “Give him your Bible,” I heard again. “You can get another one. He can’t.”

My Bible, with all of my notes and annotations written over the years in the margins, is someplace in New York. Who knows who has it now or how many souls it has brought to the Lord. As one person said after hearing this story, “Because of all your notes inside, whoever reads it will understand the scriptures better.” That was my prayer as I returned home and started writing in a new Bible.

Chosen (Sunday, March 25) 

We need to remind ourselves often who we are and why we are here. Every one of us has been separately selected by God for a divine reason. No matter what we have done, where we have been, how much we have gone through, God has a purpose for our lives.

“You did not choose me,” Jesus said, “but I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit – fruit that will last. Then the Father will give you whatever you ask in my name.” In our difficulties and personal struggles, we might wonder what we can do that will make any difference now, let alone last into eternity. The point is we are set aside by God. We have been singled out by him. It is not up to us to judge the ways in which we can be useful or bear fruit; rather, that is up to him. All we need to know is that we have been picked by the creator of the universe for a reason.

Many times we try to show God what we can do for him instead of letting him show us. But he already knows what we can do. That is precisely why he has chosen us. He also realizes what needs to be done. He does not require our thoughts to see the best way to handle any situation and circumstance. He only requires our willingness to trust him.

Each day, through each challenge, God reaches down to guide us, protect us and help us to accomplish what he alone has ordained. The fruit we bear is up to him. What should be foremost in our heart is that we have been chosen by God for all the things we face both today and tomorrow. As we bear fruit for him, he will give us whatever we ask for his sake. 

Help me (Saturday, March 24)

My prayer today is for strength. I also need your peace, Lord. I need your comfort. I trust you, though I don’t understand. I believe you Father, yet I am confused. I have faith in you God, despite my fears.

When I pause to consider how big you are, I wonder why I doubt at all. After all, you are the Creator of the universe, the Creator of life and the Creator of me. Why is it that I so often lose my hope even when I know you are all these things?

You are in control of each and every situation. No matter what occurs, you do not leave me or abandon me. You do not make me an orphan. You remain faithful, like a loving Father who protects and cares for his children. You are ever-lasting all the days of my life.

Even now, if I have any reason or cause to question you, I ask your help. Forgive my weakness. Grant me your might and courage. On my own, I would surely give up. But with you, I shall endure. Even more, I will overcome because of you!

We belong now (Friday, March 23)

There is no waiting to be an heir of the kingdom of God. The moment we accept Jesus Christ and ask for his forgiveness, we are brought into the family. We do not have to wait until we die to receive our inheritance. We possess it now.

Even as we go through our day to day activities, we are one with the body in heaven. We are as much a part of God’s kingdom as those who are with him now in eternity. He is no less present here on earth than he is in heaven.

His love, mercy, comfort, peace and joy are with us – no matter where we might be. Sometimes we forget a portion of the final message to the apostles. We quickly recall that Jesus commanded them to make disciples of all nations and to baptize in his holy name, but we overlook his very last words: “And surely I am with you always.” He was not implying that he would be with his followers someday in heaven. He is promising he will be with them as they serve him here on earth.

God is with us today, at this very moment, just as he is with those in eternity. The same God who reigns in heaven is the same one who lives with us today. We are daughters and sons of the Most High, both now and forever.

Worry (Thursday, March 22)

What are you anxious about today? Is it work, a hectic schedule, money, the future, an illness that will not go away? God tells us not to be anxious in anything. For most of us that is far easier said than done. Our human nature is to worry and fret.

God knows we can rise above the many things troubling us. He created us and he also created a way for us to overcome adversity. He would not have told us as much if it were not so. We do have the ability not to allow anything to beset us, but the power comes from God himself.

Our success in these matters lies in whether we trust him. How much are we willing to let him control? The level of our anxiety goes up or down in direct proportion to the amount of faith we possess.

The more we give to him the less we have to carry for ourselves. No load is too great for God, even though it is too much for us. We were never meant to labor with his burdens. He is always willing to bear ours, though. If we are able to give them up, our anxiety will go down.

Old and useless? (Wednesday, March 21)

It is too bad that people cannot peer into our hearts. They could see the person that God sees each time he looks at us. Then, they would know us as we truly are, far beyond the image they observe daily.

In our living room sits an old steamer trunk. It has been in our family for more than a century. The black finish is faded and worn in places. The brass hardware is pitted and rough, the leather straps are frayed and dried out, and the initials on the top are barely visible. To many folks, I am sure this enormous box looks like a piece of junk.

But open the lid and look inside. Everything is as pristine as the day it was made. The cloth lining is clean and bright. The tray, with its many compartments, is sturdy. Even the little knobs and handles are in wonderful condition.

You and I are like that old trunk. We may appear shabby and tattered on the outside, but inside our hearts are as spotless as the day we were created. God makes all things new, and he keeps them that way forever.

A strong tower (Tuesday, March 20)

After major changes in our lives, we are eager to get back to normal. But the fact that things are different for us makes it hard to return to our routine. Perhaps we have experienced the loss of a loved one, taken on new responsibilities at work or simply trying to catch up after being sick for a week.

We are always eager to accept change when it deals with something we want or decide. We have a difficult time, though, when life brings unexpected and sudden changes. When our world is turned upside down for some reason or another, we tend to lose our footing; it feels like the rug has been pulled out from underneath us.

Whenever our circumstances change, we need to stand securely in God. He never changes. He is the rock that cannot be moved, the fortress in the battle, the anchor that holds and the shelter in the storm.

Proverbs 18:10 reminds us that, “The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.” No matter what is different today than yesterday, remember that God remains the same. We can run to him for safety and protection, and he will take care of us because we belong to him. Remember also that nothing in the universe can penetrate his defenses.

His promise to you (Monday, March 19)

The analogy was simple enough for all to understand, except for those who refused to believe. Jesus was trying to explain who he was and why he had come. “My sheep listen to my voice,” he said. “I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish. No one will snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all. No one can snatch them out of my Father’s hand. I and the Father are one” (John 10:27-30).

Despite prophesy, Jesus was accused of blasphemy because he said he was God. After all, he was an ordinary man just like all of the rest. Or so they thought.

There are many lessons we can learn from Jesus here. First and foremost, Jesus said he knows us. We shall never perish. Second, no one can remove us from his constant care and protection. Third, if we know Jesus then we know the Father since they are one in the same.

As long as we follow Jesus and “listen to his voice,” we do not need to fear anything. He knows our needs and he will provide for us. We have his promise and his word. 

 Followers of God (Sunday, March 18)

Today is the greatest day of your life. Not because of what will happen or what you will do. But simply because this is the most recent day the Lord has given you. All of his past teachings play out in how you and I live today.

We should be thankful that we are alive today. God has given us another day in which to serve him by loving others. We have yet another opportunity to bring glory to him. We have these hours to praise his name and to spread the Good News to the world around us.

Nothing should hold us back from worshiping him. Not fatigue. Not illness. Not sadness. Not regret. Not depression. There is always some way to express our profound delight in being alive and being able to follow his will.

Everywhere we go today, people will notice us. What they see and hear will depend on what is in our hearts. They will be able to tell if we are really grateful or if we are just going through the motions to please him. Wherever we find ourselves today, let us be who we say we are: followers of a great God. 

Thirsting for him (Saturday, March 17)

Getting to know the Lord takes a lifetime. The years we live teach us about God’s love, power and care. When we first begin our journey with him, we are but little children. As we grow and develop, however, we start to comprehend his greatness though we can never fully grasp his ways.

The more we learn of God, the more we will want to know. That must be our driving passion and deepest longing, even more than our physical needs. It is much like the living water that Jesus proclaimed would satisfy us. “Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give him will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life” (John 4:13-14).

If we are always seeking to gratify our basic yearnings, we will never reach the place he has planned for us. We need to have a divine spring of water welling up inside of us so God’s grace can flow freely and continuously into our hearts. He alone is the living water that quenches our thirsty soul.

The greater life (Friday, March 16)

How, then, should suffering bring us toward a greater love of God? The opposite would seem to be true – that a life without tribulation would bring the most joy. Not so.

It is in our agony that we know God exists. For only when we go through difficulty do we realize the essence and beauty of being alive. Our existence is not about living carefree from one day to the next; rather, the purpose is found in how we deal with challenges.

Those who are able to put their faith and trust in God will not be deterred in the least by worldly hardships. Instead, they will develop an even stronger belief because they know he is working for their well being. God dwells on what is good and holy. We must do the same. Jesus did not go about the countryside fixing all sorts of problems. He told people about the glory of heaven and displayed the power of God.

The wholeness Jesus brought to earth was much more than physical pleasure. He offers us spiritual gifts: life in eternity despite the death of the body. Each moment he is with us to show us the greater life that never ends.

Born again (Thursday, March 15)

Being born again means having a new life. The old person is gone, dead, and a new person comes forth. We receive a new nature, not a new body.

Often, we confuse the two. As Christians, we wonder why we have to face pain, sickness and trouble. Somehow we think we are supposed to be immune from the problems of this world. But Christ never promised us a perfect life. He promised us eternal life.

What he came to give us is far more than we can either think or imagine right now. Our new life in him guarantees us new life in paradise – forever.

Once we begin to realize what awaits us in heaven, we no longer will be so upset with what we are going through right now. Now will not last, but eternity will.

More like him (Wednesday, March 14)

Because of our experiences yesterday, we are not the same today. We have changed, if only in very subtle ways. God has been busy in our lives even as we were at rest last night.

All throughout the past 24 hours, God has been helping us, guiding us and protecting us. We may not realize the amazing work he has done, but our hearts and minds have been enlarged with his compassion and love.

We are not the same person right now because he has brought us closer to him and to his ways. Slowly but surely we are becoming more like our Father each minute of every day.

Following or watching (Tuesday, March 13)

People not only came to Jesus when he was in town, preaching near their homes. But Luke tells us in chapter 14 of his gospel that large crowds were traveling with Jesus. They went with him from place to place.

These curious “followers” took their time, their resources and their lives to go with Jesus. His words of truth compelled them to leave all else behind. More than anything, they wanted to hear him and to understand his message of forgiveness and salvation. There was something about this man, who proclaimed to be the Son of God, that was strangely comforting and peaceful. He offered them the hope of eternal life.

Sometimes we fail to count the cost of traveling with Jesus and following him each day. How much are we willing to leave everything behind: family, friends, house, work and possessions? Does the hope that he preached long ago prompt us today to be true followers? Or do we watch from afar, at a safe distance, so we will not have to give up all we have?

If we are not willing to commit to him, fully and completely, he cannot commit to us. If we decide to go with him, however, he will give up his own life for us. We mean that much to him. The question we must answer is how much he means to us.

Thinking about the past (Monday, March 12)

What if? These are powerful words. They can spread doubt, worry and fear in the best of us. They are able to bring down good, loving Christians quicker than anything else in the world. In fact, this short phrase can completely destroy a life that has been uniquely fashioned by God for a great purpose. Asking ourselves what if is a most deadly game.

What if things would have turned out this way, people wonder. What if I would have done that? What if I had chosen another career? What if ___ (fill in the blank)? The question sounds innocent enough, much like a child’s simple riddle, but the effects and implications go far beyond silly amusements.

These two syllables can set in motion a whole host of lies, regrets and deceptions. In an instant, years (even decades) of faithful loyalty, hard work, service and devotion can be erased. Pondering what if rather than what was automatically thrusts us into the position of being wrong. There is no way to come out on top. We will lose every time for two reasons. First, we cannot change what has happened. Second, we cannot look back and see with total objectivity. We are examining the past from a wounded perspective; of course, we will blame ourselves.

Whenever we pause to think what if, we have already lost the battle. We have defeated ourselves without any help at all. We must make a conscious effort each moment to leave what has passed alone, especially those situations that threaten to ruin our lives right now. We cannot go on living today when we constantly say what if about yesterday. The only way we can turn our thoughts around is by thinking what if that particular event never happened? As far as God is concerned, it never did.

Focus on the victory (Sunday, March 11)

Forgetting the past means letting go of the painful moments, yet remembering how God has brought us through these great difficulties. It is easy to recall how we have been hurt by situations in life. Our minds vividly replay the scenes as though we are watching a movie about our lives. Each word and every detail appear in minute clarity, reminding us of previous wounds. Unfortunately, we never stay long enough to see how the past ends: how God has brought us through safely. He has made sure we were not harmed, no matter what the circumstance.

Somehow we always ignore the fact that God protects us through each storm. He has been with us in the past and he will be with us in the future. What lies before us now is no different than what we have been through in the past. But our hope for tomorrow must rest solely in God – in his mantle of love and protection. This divine assurance is what we possess through our faith and belief in him. It is our birthright and it is what separates us from the rest of world. God has made a blood covenant with us. He promises never to leave us nor forsake us.

The Old Testament is full of examples when God’s people forgot about his powerful presence; they thought he had abandoned them. They did not remember what he had done in the past and so they had no hope for the future. Let us not make the same mistakes. Let us forget the pains of the past, and concentrate on how we have been victorious through God. In the end, the victory over trials and tribulations is all that will matter, not our brief time of suffering.

Thanking God (Saturday, March 10)

How can we ever begin to thank God for all he has given to us? He has provided us with loving families, places to live, good health, money, food, cars and vocations. Plus, he has created us with talents and abilities to do all sorts of things. Most important of all is the eternal gift of salvation. What can we possibly say to such a gracious and loving God?

We can use our lives – our actions and attitudes, for example – to show our gratitude to God. Being kind to people, accepting others, greeting strangers, practicing patience, helping neighbors – all of these actions are visible signs of our appreciation toward God. He has been kind and gracious to us; we need to be just as loving toward others.

Once we realize that God accepts us for who we are, our lives take on a completely new perspective. Suddenly, we see that we do not deserve his love and mercy, yet he showers us moment by moment with a multitude of blessings. Our gratefulness toward him should overflow into our individual lives as we accept the people around us. When we can love each person the way God loves us, then we show him that we are truly thankful.

One purpose (Friday, March 9)

Our sole purpose as Christians is “to glorify God and to enjoy him forever.” These words from the Shorter Catechism should be more than a reminder of what we need to do each day. They should tell us how to allow God into our lives so we live according to his plan.

Much of what we do daily, however, gets in the way. From morning to night, it seems our many activities separate us from God: working, shopping, entertaining, studying, even eating. Seeing God in all these places and times is not easy.

Frequently, we have to push beyond our neighborhoods, the television programs, the breaking news and all of the chatter around us in order to notice the God of the universe. When we first seek him, he is barely visible through the fabric of our busy schedules. But, as we look closer and more intently, we will begin to see his brightness and radiance.

Slowly, he reveals himself to us. When the complete magnificence of his eternal love comes shining through, we wonder why we never noticed its beauty before. As we truly see God’s divine love and begin to grasp his greatness, our whole desire in life will change. Nothing will be more important to us than “to glorify God and to enjoy him forever.”

Celebrating each day (Thursday, March 8)

We naturally celebrate special occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries, holidays and family gatherings. But every day in our lives is extraordinary because of who we are in Christ. Today marks another day when we are loved and protected by the creator of the universe.

When we pause to think about the fact that God fashioned this very day and made us for this day, we begin to see our lives from a new perspective. Suddenly, we feel a part of the universe rather than apart from it. Too often we as Christians think that we are estranged from the rest of the world. Our purposes and goals seem to be out of step with post-modern society. Nothing could be further from the truth, however.

The universe was created by God and it is controlled by him. We are his creation and we were put here for his glory. We are not out of step with his design at all; rather, it is the world that has chosen to turn away from God. One of our primary purposes in life is to point the way back to God – to show those who are not believers what they are missing.

Realizing the importance of our work here on earth, as well as all that we possess through Christ, we can shout with joy and assurance that “this is the day that the Lord has made. Let us rejoice and be glad in it!” We celebrate each day because we are living in him, from this moment on and forever for all eternity.

God’s creation (Wednesday, March 7)

Perception can make a world of difference. The earth looks much different, for example, from a plane at 25,000 feet. Peacefully and serenely, the ground below glides by. We marvel at all of shapes and shades of the landscape scattered here and there. For miles, we see dark blue rivers that twist and turn; forests and fields that are outlined by roads and highways; and large sprawling cities that suddenly seem small and insignificant.

Sometimes we need to get above the clutter and noise of daily life in order to appreciate the world that God made for us, his children. The true wonder and beauty of this life is found in God’s creation, not in the many works of man.

When we start to see the world through the eyes of God, we begin to notice the little things we miss each day. We need to spend more time focusing on what God designed rather than on what man has developed.

A Red Sea experience (Tuesday, March 6)

There will always be another Red Sea in front of us. The Israelites were shocked and scared when Pharaoh’s army backed them up against the Red Sea. Suddenly, they forgot about the many miracles the Lord had done for them: setting them free from Egypt, caring for them in the desert and guiding them by fire and a cloud. They failed to remember they were God’s chosen people and turned into frightened fugitives.

The account in Exodus 14 records the fear and terror as the people cried out hopelessly to Moses: “Was it because there were no graves in Egypt that you brought us to the desert to die? What have you done to us by bringing us out of Egypt? Didn’t we say to you in Egypt, ‘Leave us alone; let us serve the Egyptians?’ It would have been better for us to serve the Egyptians than to die in the desert.” The joy, faith and trust these former captives shared just a brief time earlier now was gone. Facing yet another obstacle in their journey to the Promised Land, they thought God had abandoned them. They quickly turned on Moses, blaming him for their misfortune.

We know that God did show them a way out by parting the Red Sea. We also realize that they continued to complain each time they encountered a new problem or difficulty. We would like to think we are different, but we tend to act much the same way today. Each time God helps us through one Red Sea experience, we lose our faith and hope when we unexpectedly come across another Red Sea. What God has done before, he will do again. We have to remember all of his past blessings so we do not to lose our faith and trust. We need to tell ourselves that God did not bring us this far in our journey, only to abandon us during our time of crisis and difficulty. He will always part the waters in front of us in his time and way, not ours.

Less can mean more (Monday, March 5)

The story of the Exodus from Egypt is a true miracle. Who else but God could have taken care of more than two million people for 40 years in the wilderness? Even today, some 3,400 years later, such a feat would be impossible for man to accomplish. Think about the staggering needs of each person – food, water, clothing, health care, shelter – for four decades. When we consider the fact that this group was largely self-sufficient, we begin to appreciate the epic proportions of this event.

If God can watch over and guard two million Israelites for 40 years in the desert, how much more can he do for us as individuals in contemporary society? Sometimes, with all of our modern conveniences, we complain that God is not taking care of us as he promised. We should be ashamed of ourselves for thinking this way. Most of us have large houses, one or more cars, plenty of food, an endless supply of water and closets full of clothing. Yet, we expect more from God.

We need to focus on everything God has done for us, not on what we still want him to do. Instead of grumbling and complaining, like the Israelites, we need to praise God for his greatness and protection. He has given us so much that, at times, we take these many benefits for granted. God will never give us more until we are satisfied, and thankful, with less.

Sharing the joy (Sunday, March 4)

By now, the entire world knows the name of Ted Williams. Not the homerun hitter. But the homeless man. Just a couple of days ago, Ted was begging for money on a street corner in Columbus, Ohio. As luck would have it (more likely, as God had willed it), a person working for the local newspaper recorded a short clip of Ted as he imitated a radio announcer.

The amazing sound coming from this former disc jockey, of some 20 years earlier, shocked everyone. His rich and smooth baritone voice is a God-given gift, he says. Now, 48 hours later, Ted has staggering offers from a myriad of companies who want him. He has gone from nothing to everything.

What incredible miracles God performs. Like me, you might be thinking why doesn’t God do something like that in my life? The truth is that he has. All we need to do is to look around. Look at where we live. Look at all of the luxuries we enjoy daily. Look at our cars. Look at our furniture and clothing. Look at the food we have in the refrigerator and pantry. Look at the water, lights and phone that are there whenever we want.

God has done wonderful and glorious things for each one of us. His miracles have brought us to this place and time. Now, in an instant, it is Ted’s time. May we share his joy, and be thankful, for what the Lord has done.

The real news (Saturday, March 3)

Every morning and throughout the day, we hear news of all kinds of events and incidents. The news seems to be everywhere: on television, on the radio, in newspapers and magazines, and on the web. I sometimes feel overwhelmed by all of the so-called bad news about accidents, shootings, fires, burglaries, robberies and stabbings. Whenever I grow weary of what is going on around me, I turn to the news found in scripture.

The New Testament is full of good news. The headlines should be familiar to each one of us: “Peter converts thousands.” “Two followers heal lame man.” “Barnabas becomes a disciple.” “Believers speak out in Samaria.” “Leaders establish church in Antioch.” “The Council meets at Jerusalem.” “Paul sets out on second missionary journey.” Page after page, we read the wonderful news of our faith.

On occasion, it is necessary to forget about the temporal and get away from the things happening around us. We need to contemplate the good news from above – the lasting news of God’s word and world. The headline reads: “Jesus offers salvation to all.”

Walking not by sight (Friday, March 2)

The darkness of each night is always overcome by the morning light. So it is with our lives. We may be experiencing loneliness, pain, confusion, even emptiness. But we know, from what we have gone through already in our lives, that the night does not last. The shadows of each valley always disappear in due course.

In the meantime, we have God’s promise, his very word, that he will be with us. He will protect us. He will comfort us. He will guide us. He will overcome our fear. With each step, God is bringing us safely through. We can help ourselves by living by our faith, not by our sight.

Even when we cannot see any light ahead, we have to believe and know that it is coming, just like the rising of the sun each new day. We need not lose hope, even for a minute. God says he will complete the good work he has begun in us and he promises to abide with us until his perfect will is fulfilled. The matter is simple. God has told us what he will do. The rest is up to us. What will we do in return?

The imperishable (Thursday, March 1)

Our spiritual nature, the part that exists inside of us, will live on into eternity. Our physical body, however, will pass away. This simple truth is easy enough to understand, yet we often overlook the obvious: that our spiritual body is the one that continues from this life to the next.

There is no spiritual death for the Christian. We live now and eternally through the same spirit. All that we are touches the spirit in one way or another, positively or negatively. Right now, this day, there are eternal consequences to what we do or do not do. That is precisely why it is vital to edify and serve the Lord in everything, from our thoughts to our thinking to our words to our actions. We must constantly strive to develop the non-physical part of ourselves much more than the physical.

The imperishable nature that is alive within us at this moment is the same spirit that one day will be in paradise with God. When we realize the implications here, we are more likely to change everything about us, even our very view of life. Slowly, our lives (and minds) can be completely transformed as we grasp the fact that we are really living today on earth for tomorrow in heaven.

You and I would do well to look at life from God’s perspective – through his everlasting sight rather than from our earthly vision. When we do, we will see the profound mystery of all we are in him. 

He repairs our lives (Wednesday, February 29)

In life, we become upset and frustrated when things break. Often, we end up throwing out the object, whether it be a favorite coffee mug or a family heirloom. My wife once had an antique lamp she loved, but she had to give it up when it broke into pieces during our last move. It would have been impossible for anyone to restore the lamp to its original condition.

God, however, specializes in repairing what is broken. In fact, he cannot use us until we are broken and useless. For in our brokenness, God can make us whole and restore us to what he originally created us to be. Let us not be discouraged and lost when we feel broken. When we are all apart and in pieces, we know that the next step will be for God to repair our shattered and fragmented lives.

Eager to serve (Tuesday, February 28)

The apostle Paul said he was eager to preach the gospel in Rome. He added that he “was not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes” (Romans 1:14). Little did he realize when he wrote these words to the Romans that he would spend his entire time in prison and under house arrest.

We do not know, but perhaps it was part of God’s plan to protect Paul from harm. After all, Rome was full of persons who hated the followers of Christ. Also, the fact that Paul was a captive may have made him even more well-known. No doubt people talked among themselves about Paul’s arrest and sentence by the government. So, too, Paul had a chance to write the epistles of Colossians, Philemon, Ephesians and Philippians. How valuable these four letters are to the church today.

Whatever God’s full purpose, Paul lived for two years in Rome doing what he loved: telling others about the Good News.

From time to time, we might wonder about God’s plan. But let us never stop serving him because we do not understand. Like Paul, may we use the faith and time we have to trust God’s will. He knew that God was up to something by sending him to Rome, and Paul was eager to do whatever the Lord required.

Who is greater? (Monday, February 27)

It could have started with an innocent remark made in jest. Perhaps one of them was jealous of another. Despite how it began, Luke tells us the disciples argued over which one would be the greatest.

You and I may not quarrel over which of us is better. But, all the same, we think we are superior because of what we have done for people and for the Lord.

We act like the disciples in this situation whenever we see others rewarded, recognized, singled-out and lauded for their work. “What about what I have done,” I am tempted to wonder on occasion. “I have accomplished much greater things than they have.”

Jesus knew exactly what his disciples were thinking. He knows our thoughts, too. To make a point, he took a child and said, “Whoever welcomes this little one in my name welcomes me; . . . For he who is least among you all – he is the greatest” (Luke 9:48). One of the lessons here is that the size or largeness of our life has no place in the kingdom of God. We are all great when we give our lives serving others in the name of Jesus.

Until the storm passes (Sunday, February 26)

During a storm, we wait patiently for the weather to clear. We may sit quietly, looking out the window, or we may keep busy with chores that need to be done. Usually we do not worry about our safety because we are inside, in a familiar and comfortable place.

We are not so calm, however, when we encounter trials and difficulties. We become full of anxiety and unrest, wondering how long the tempest will last. Our minds begin wondering about the future or look back on the past to better understand our situation. Still, we find little consolation or peace. In fact, we may even feel worse with each passing minute. Nothing seems to quiet our restless minds.

What we frequently fail to remember is the protection that we have in God. He is our shelter and refuge during any storm. Nothing will happen to us as long as we do as he says: “Be still, and know that I am God.” Only in the stillness – in the silence and tranquility of his presence – can we discover that we are safe and secure from all harm.

Hard to love (Saturday, February 25)

The message of love is the cornerstone of the New Testament. Jesus spoke over and over about loving others. He touched the eyes of the blind man out of love. He touched the leper out of love. He touched the dead girl out of love.

Jesus did not judge the sick, the sinful and the lost. Instead, he loved them, healed them and saved them. He accepted them rather than rejected them. He loved each as he loved the Father, and he treated them with compassion. He regarded all with respect. He did not disregard anyone.

We do not have the choice of loving whom we want. Jesus did not say to love our neighbors, if we like them. Nor did he tell us to love only those who do not create problems. He did not even ask us if we feel like loving certain people. Love everyone was his command.

Some people are not easy to love. True. At certain times in our lives, we might have been one of them. But what if Jesus would have rejected us because of something we said or did or how we looked? He gave us a chance, and we need to do the same with others. We have no right to reject those whom Jesus loves. For what excuse could we possibly give to our Lord?

Saved through you (Friday, February 24)

All along the inner passage of Alaska there are buoys. Some light up at night. Some clang as they rock gently back and forth. Some even have colored markers that signal shallow water. Twenty-four hours a day these floating pieces of steel do what they were designed to do: save ships from running aground.

Like buoys, we also have a job to do. We were made by God to help people and to stop them from going off in the wrong direction. We as Christians mark the way of safety and salvation. We show the proper course and light the way to heaven.

God recognizes our importance, just like a captain depends on the buoys to navigate a ship. The world is similar to the passengers who may never notice the markers in the water. But God knows our value and worth.

What we are doing for him is priceless. Only he knows how many people our lives have saved from destruction. For that reason alone, we can never afford to forget our purpose. It matters to him and to all those who find eternal life because of us.

A routine and miraculous day (Thursday, February 23)

Praise the Lord that nothing happened yesterday. All of our family and friends were well. Our pets were fine. Work went smoothly. There were no problems on the road or at home. The weather was great. I enjoyed the day I had been given. One more day in which to serve the Lord and be his servant in the world.

Oftentimes, we become bored with the repetition of daily life. Our perspective seems to be that we do the same things all of the time, day in and day out. Nothing is different. Hour after hour goes by in the usual manner. There is nothing new.

Our hearts should be overflowing with excitement and exuberance when we have days that are unchanging. These are amazing times when God is truly blessing us – with health, protection, security, safety and love. What might seem routine or predictable to us becomes an incredible miracle when we think of all the Lord has done to give us a day without pain, sorrow or suffering.

May we have many uneventful and regular days when we can shout for joy, “The Lord has done this, and it is marvelous in our eyes” (Psalm 118:23).

A daily workout (Wednesday, February 22)

Just as we exercise our bodies, we must learn to exercise our faith. We have to put ourselves to the test, over and over again, and practice our patience, trust and resolve. We need to push our hearts and minds to be more like our Lord.

At the beginning of last summer, I could barely walk one mile without being winded. I had to stop and catch my breath if I went too fast. Nine months later, however, I was able to run two miles and still feel strong.

We can do more than we realize both mentally and physically, but we have to let go of our self-imposed limitations. Remember, God can do anything.

Make it a point to exercise daily. Work out with God and you will see great things happen in your life.

Pick up your cross (Tuesday, February 21)

We often look at our pain, difficulties and infirmities as burdensome crosses we must bear. We know what our Savior said: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me” (Matthew 16:24). In our humanness, we often misunderstand the full sense of his words.

He is not referring to a heavy cross of suffering. Jesus is talking about a much greater thing than his own death or what we have to endure in life. He is pointing to the cross that imparts life – the one that set him free to rise again. It is the cross of gladly giving up ourselves in order to serve others.

The cross we must take up is laying down our life – denying ourselves and what we want – to help individuals in all walks of life. The Heavenly Father taught us the way by giving up his son for the sake of the world. Jesus showed us the example by giving up his life for our salvation.

Now it is our time and our turn to pick up our cross in service, both for him and for those we meet each day.

Reality vs. faith (Monday, February 20)

Where does reality end and faith begin? When do we act on the facts right in front of us and ignore our trust in God for what we need? We should never abandon our confidence in God, but there is always the temptation to give up on him and give in to the world.

Time after time I have seen people make the mistake of putting greater stock in the world than in God. Suppose, for example, I decide that I can no longer meet my tithe at church because my finances are low. Am I not giving up much more than a simple amount of money? What about my faith in the Lord’s ability to prosper me in spite of my personal difficulties?

Too often we become too practical. We do not see a way out so we shut God out. We forget that he can do the impossible in the face of the improbable.

There is little he can do, though, if we ignore him. We need to have the faith to believe in him before he will help us. God can accomplish miraculous things for us, but only if we follow him instead of what we think or know.

Changing by praying (Sunday, February 19)

As we look around, we sometimes add up all of the things that we wish were different. We long to see things change, if ever so slightly, for the better. Perhaps we have to deal with a difficult person each day. Maybe we work for someone who is inconsiderate and insensitive. Possibly we are looking for a new place to live, but not having any success. It might be that we have been sick and we are tired of the pain. Whatever the problem, we can find relief.

We do not have the power or ability to change people and circumstances, but we do have the opportunity to change ourselves. With God’s guidance and might, we can find the energy to adjust how we think, feel and react. We do not have to become upset over anything; the secret lies in accepting what we face and committing the person or situation to prayer.

If I am bothered by what goes on at work, I need to pray. When I disagree with someone, I need to pray. As soon as I feel depressed or angry, I need to pray. If a person ignores me, I need to pray. By going to the Lord in prayer, I can change myself and my situation.

In his letter to the Thessalonians, Paul tells how to be content. “Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances.” It sounds so simple, yet you and I struggle each day. Maybe our first step toward change needs to be doing nothing at all – except to pray.

Time to remodel (Saturday, February 18)

We remodel kitchens, bathrooms and sometimes entire houses. But what about our lives? Maybe we could use some remodeling when it comes to our faith, our attitude or our behavior.

The great preacher D.L. Moody once wrote about how our lives are similar to the construction of a house. “When a house is to be built,” he said, “before the masons and the carpenters commence work, the architect is called in to make a drawing of the building. As the workmen conform to his plans, they realize the ideal that was in his mind. The trouble with most people is that their lives are not formed according to any plan. They are not striving to resemble any model. They have no definite aim and purpose.”

God is the architect and Jesus is the model. Our lives need to be guided according to the plans and design set before us. Perhaps we need to take the time to do some remodeling: changing our outlook, our perspective or our thinking so that we are more like Jesus. Whatever we need to modify, God can help us.

He is our creator. He made us in a certain way and for a particular reason. Let us go back to his original blueprint for our lives and see what does not fit into the plan.

His great light (Friday, February 17) 

Bigger than God? We know we are not, but still we try to be. We head off in our own direction and then ask God to bless us. We make decisions and ask God to honor them. We buy what we think we need and ask God to help us pay for it. We put ourselves first and God second.

If we are looking directly at God, though, it is impossible to put ourselves before him. The principle is like walking toward the sun; the bright light is all we can see. But when we turn around, we see our shadow on the ground; it can appear five or six times our normal height especially if the sun is going down. Focusing on our image ignores the true light that casts the shadow.

We may deceive ourselves, but we cannot deny the truth. We are not larger than God. Nor are we more important. In all things, he must come first. Without his light, there would be darkness everywhere. We would not even see the shadow our little lives make.

Never boring or dull (Thursday, February 16)

One of the many ironies of life is that we count on and enjoy our routine – the activities we do regularly. Sometimes, however, the monotony of our daily schedule can become too routine. Each day seems identical. We go through the same motions day after day. Worst of all, we feel powerless to change.

Years ago there was a professional football player with the Cleveland Browns. Paul Warfield was an amazing wide receiver. He seemed to get better each year until he hit a slump in his career. The Browns thought his glory days were over and they quickly traded him to the Miami Dolphins. In no time at all, Warfield was stronger and more agile than in all of his years with the Browns, even though he was older.

No doubt the difference in him was mental, not physical. He was forced to break out of his routine. He had to live in a new place, meet new people and adapt to a new job. The circumstances of his life required him to change his attitude or suffer the consequences: give up professional football.

Maybe you and I need to change our way of thinking, too. Perhaps we have become too complacent or taken too many things for granted. Consider once again what Paul said in his letter to the Romans: “Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind” (Romans 12:2). The prefix trans means “to go beyond.” You can go beyond the state you are in right now. Look toward heaven and let God show you a brand new way of doing the same old thing. The kind of life he offers is never boring or dull.

Sacrifice of forgiveness (Wednesday, February 15)

The Christian life is one of constant vigilance. There are daily battles, both against the flesh and the mind. We cannot let down our defenses or our guard, not even for a few minutes. We must push ourselves to remain in God at all times.

Realizing that death was near, Paul wrote to his dear friend Timothy. “I have fought the good fight,” he said. “I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” There is a certain tone of confidence in Paul’s words. He reflected on what the Lord had called him to do since that first day on the road to Damascus. Paul was sure of his earthly and heavenly life in Christ.

Paul was not being arrogant in proclaiming he had been successful. He knew there were occasions when he had failed, when he had disappointed the Lord. But he realized he was already forgiven and that all of his offenses were erased through Christ. His life had been made perfect in Christ.

We can make the same claim as Paul. We are fighting the good fight. We will finish the race. We will keep the faith. We can do all of these things because of our trust and belief in God. He has given us sure victory through his sacrifice of forgiveness.

His time (Tuesday, February 14)

The transfiguration of Christ, as recorded in Mark 9:2, is one of most remarkable displays of the power and might of God in the New Testament. In an instant – before the eyes of Peter, James and John – Jesus is transformed from body into spirit.

You and I need to remember how quickly God acts. We tend to believe that God takes weeks, months or years before he does anything. But all of God’s works and actions are performed in a single moment. Even though we must often wait, he knows the perfect time.

He sees and hears our impatience, but it will not change his will. All must follow his will or it will not be done.

What God wants (Monday, February 13)

In our eagerness to complete everything on our daily list of activities, we short-change ourselves. Our lives suffer because of what we think needs to be done as opposed to what must be done for the Lord.

A short time ago, I remember dreading an entire day because of everything on my schedule. Each time I thought about all of the many activities, I became more frightened. The truth is I did not even want to leave the house in the morning. My mind became such a whirlwind of confusion that I could not see myself coming back home that evening. I lacked the vision or hope to get past all the clutter of the day.

There are times when we imprison ourselves. We might as well be sitting in a cell once we are trapped by our own minds. We put too many limitations on ourselves and then expect to break free.

We need to remember what Paul told the Philippians, “I can do all things through him who strengthens me” (4:13). We also must keep in mind the “things” he meant. Paul was talking about what God wanted him to do, not what he wanted to do for himself.

Celebrating each day (Sunday, February 12)

We naturally celebrate special occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries, holidays and family gatherings. But every day in our lives is extraordinary because of who we are in Christ. Today marks another day when we are loved and protected by the creator of the universe.

When we pause to think about the fact that God fashioned this very day and made us for this day, we begin to see our lives from a new perspective. Suddenly, we feel a part of the universe rather than apart from it. Too often we as Christians think that we are estranged from the rest of the world. Our purposes and goals seem to be out of step with post-modern society. Nothing could be further from the truth, however.

The universe was created by God and it is controlled by him. We are his creation and we were put here for his glory. We are not out of step with his design at all; rather, it is the world that has chosen to turn away from God. One of our primary purposes in life is to point the way back to God – to show those who are not believers what they are missing.

Realizing the importance of our work here on earth, as well as all that we possess through Christ, we can shout with joy and assurance that “this is the day that the Lord has made. Let us rejoice and be glad in it!” We celebrate each day because we are living in him, from this moment on and forever for all eternity.

Traveling for God (Saturday, February 11)

The apostle Paul had longed to go to Spain. He spoke of the desire in his letter to the Romans. But in spite of three mission trips all over the Mediterranean, and a final journey to Rome as a captive, there is no solid evidence that Paul ever reached the Iberian Peninsula.

His strong yearning to visit Spain, which was under Roman rule, had nothing to do with seeing the sights and experiencing the culture. Instead, it had everything to do with spreading the word of salvation to another part of the world.

I wonder what Paul would think of our many travels today – how we go from place to place on vacation. We go to the mountains, the beach, a foreign land or a theme park in an effort to escape. We try to get away from the daily routine of life. We seek something new and different, something that will give us rest, relaxation and refreshment.

Paul might be perplexed at our strange ways and customs. Why we go to such great lengths to travel for ourselves, not for God. Now there is nothing wrong with taking a break or a holiday, but we need to consider our intention and motivation. Is our objective solely to please us, or is it a sincere desire to please God? It seems to me that our main desire to take a trip should be for God, for the opportunities he will present to serve and witness to others in a new place.

When we go with the right attitude and right reason, we can be sure that God will see to our personal needs. Certainly this was Paul’s wish in wanting to visit Spain.

A living hope (Friday, February 10)

I am sure Jesus felt weary at times, disappointed by what he saw going on all around him: the fighting, stealing, hurting and killing. He must have wondered, as we often do today, when people would learn to get along with one another.

While Jesus may have been troubled by such acts of selfishness and violence, he never stopped being a living example of the perfect life – that of heaven. He was always showing a better way by making individuals whole in body, mind and spirit.

Likewise, we should not be deterred in the least by the evil in our society. Our purpose is not to dwell on what is wrong everywhere and with everyone. Jesus expects us to lead the way to a higher and better life through him.

"If you hold to my teaching,” Jesus said. “You are really my disciples” (John 8:31). The term disciple comes from the Latin word discipulus, meaning a “follower of Jesus Christ in his lifetime.” For all intents and purposes, we are the modern-day followers of the living Christ. He imparts his life to us now so we can serve him and bring glory to the Father.

Imitating God (Thursday, February 9)

As a follower of Jesus Christ, I should reflect his love, his compassion and his patience. Like most people today, however, I fall far short of the mark. I sometimes become angry, lose my concern for others and grow annoyed in tedious situations. I fail both my savior and myself.

In my disheartened condition, I often recall what Paul once wrote to the people of Ephesus. He told them they should, “Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children” (Ephesians 5:1). Imitating God is one thing and being dearly loved children is quite another. It seems to me that what Paul might be saying, at least in part, is this: “You should imitate God in all you do, and realize that you are just children.” There will be times when we fall. Still, God is there is pick us up because he loves us dearly.

If I want to call myself a believer, then I will accept the fact that I have failed and try to do better the next time. No matter what happens, though, God will always love me. He knows that my heart is always trying to imitate him even when my life does not.

A broken heart (Wednesday, February 8)

Has someone or something broken your heart recently? Maybe it was a dear friend or a spouse who hurt you. Perhaps it was a situation you heard about or even experienced: a divorce, the death of a little child, an abandoned pet that has been abused, an elderly person who was neglected in a nursing home or some of the many other sad incidents that occur daily all around us.

All of these tear us apart quite literally. We grieve and wonder why such things have to happen to us personally and in our society. Pain and suffering are nothing new. People throughout the ages have felt the same kinds of hurts as we feel today.

We are not alone in our distress. God also aches because of the troubles here on earth. He notices each and every thing that happens to the billions of people past and present. Imagine his sorrow at what he sees. Psalm 34:18 reminds us that, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”

Your heart may be broken right now. It may seem as though you will never heal or be whole again. You will get through the anguish that you feel at this moment because of God’s help. Try to put all of your hope in him, knowing that he is close to you and that he promises to save all “those who are crushed in spirit.” 

As it is in heaven (Tuesday, February 7)

Our entire lives – all the many decades of activities, actions and acts – will coalesce in the blink of an eye when we pass from mortality into immortality. At that one moment in time, in a split second, we will leave behind the perishable ways of this world and enter our new life in eternity.

How quickly this day of transformation comes for each one of us. All of a sudden, we look back and realize how much time has gone by. One instant we are graduating from high school and the next we are playing with our grandchildren and great grandchildren. What happened to all of the years in between?

Billy Graham once was asked about the greatest surprise he found in life. “The brevity of it,” he replied. “Time moves so quickly, and no matter who we are or what we have done, the time will come when our lives will be over. As Jesus said, ‘As long as it is day, we must do the work of him who sent me. Night is coming, when no one can work’” (John 9:4).

As believers in Jesus Christ, we need not fear death. We should, however, be keenly conscious and aware of how we spend each moment. Are we making the most of our gift of life? We can only answer yes if we follow Jesus’ example of serving wherever we go. May we not waste any time today by using it on the things that have no use in the kingdom of heaven.

Giving away our blessings (Monday, February 6)

When we wrestle with God’s will for our lives and lose the battle, we can still enjoy the blessings of winning. God always gives us the victory when we give our lives to him.

Only recently, I fought God for many days over whether or not to attend a particular meeting. I wanted to stay home on Saturday morning rather than go to a men’s prayer breakfast at church. I kept telling the Lord that I was tired, I wanted to sleep in, I had other things to do, I needed time alone.

Plain and simple, I did not want to go. Each time I thought about not going, God’s spirit prodded me a little stronger and a slight bit sharper. Finally, I gave up and gave in. I decided to go. At that very moment, when I accepted God’s desire more than my own, I finally felt a sense of peace. The anxiety and restlessness dissipated.

I enjoyed both the breakfast and the Bible study which followed. Two hours seemed like 10 minutes. I realized all I would have missed: the fellowship, the learning, the interaction. This time was all meant for me, yet I almost gave it away. It made me ponder just how many times each day we give up God’s divine blessings for our own earthly desires.

Be glad (Sunday, February 5)

The beauty of each morning is not in the weather, a magnificent sunrise, what we have planned or where we might be going. The wonder of this day is found in our hearts and minds: what we are thinking and how we feel about the life that God has given us.

Even on those days that are dark and gloomy outside, or when the activities of the early hours rush at us from every direction, we can still be happy and peaceful inside. We can be grateful to God for the day ahead if we look to him rather than at the obstacles around us.

God will grant us the happiness and joy we desire at the beginning of each day if we trust him. “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee” (Isaiah 26:3).

His peace transcends the physical circumstances of this world. It is infinite and lasting. What we must do is trust him completely instead of what we see with our eyes. We have to look far beyond earth if we want to be eternally glad.

Using what we have (Saturday, February 4)

Does our faith really have worth and meaning? Or is it worth-less than it should be? If our faith does not do all it should for us, then we are not using what we have. We need to take advantage of our gifts. If not, they will not make a bit of difference in our lives and we will become use-less in the kingdom.

What would we do, for example, if someone gave us an expensive new car with all of the luxuries and accessories we desire? Suppose we kept it in the garage and never used it? All the things this car could do for us would be wasted. All of the time, effort and money that went into the vehicle would mean nothing.

As believers in Christ, we waste what we own. We do not use the might of prayer, the miracle of healing and the strength of the Spirit. Nor do we get anything out of the faith and trust we possess. We let all of these possessions sit out in the garage of our lives. They gather dust and dirt when they can, in fact, take us anywhere God wants us to go. We remain idle, like the car that is life-less and parked day after day.

Eventually, the car will not start or move. The same can happen to us. We can forget what we have the power to do unless we use it every day.

Danger ahead (Friday, February 3)

Stopped by the Red Sea, the Hebrews could go no farther. They had reached the end of their journey. Their short-lived freedom seemed to be over.

The Egyptians pursued them, just like the troubles of this world attack us at times. The forces of destruction are relentless and constant; they try to capture and control us. They long to hold us in bondage like helpless slaves and force us to make bricks without straw.

But God has set the captives free. Just as he did some 3,000 years ago for the Hebrews, he does for us today. We have all been released from whatever tries to make us prisoners. People, situations, circumstances and illness threaten us daily on all sides. To no avail, however. God will not let us perish. He holds us in his promises and nothing can break through his Word.

He is our fortress and our strength, a very help in times of trouble. No matter what you are going through this day, remember that God parted the Red Sea. In spite of what looms ahead, he is in control.

Honor Him (Thursday, February 2)

There was but one Moses, one Joseph, one David, one Noah. No one else could have done what God chose for these individuals. We are each made for a specific purpose and reason. God created us for himself and to bring honor to him.

The greatest commitment we can make with our life is to give it back to God in service and ministry. We serve him best when we are ministering to others. Jesus is our example. He came to earth not only to grant us salvation, but also to show us how our lives are to be used. We are to point the way to eternal life by showing the world the things of heaven.

All that you do today matters. Your speech, your deeds, your actions, even your thoughts are important. “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31).

What the Lord has put before you this hour is exactly what he wants you to accomplish. That is his will, specifically for you. No other person will be coming up from behind to pick up the pieces of what you leave undone. God is depending on you. Trust him. He will give you everything you need for his greater good and glory.

Trust without sight (Wednesday, February 1)

Blind faith is being able to move forward without being able to see. Trusting in God, no matter how situations appear, requires a faith that goes beyond sight or circumstance.

Moses walked in blind faith when he led the Hebrews out of Egypt. Joshua stepped out in blind faith when he fought the battle of Jericho. David came forward in blind faith when he challenged the giant Goliath. Joseph lived by blind faith for 14 years in a dark prison. Paul journeyed in blind faith to spread the Good News to the world.

All of these individuals believed in what they could not see at the moment. They dwelled in what they knew about the future. They trusted that God would be there with them and that he would triumph.

Faith can only be faith when there is spiritual knowledge of the power of God. It has nothing to do with physical reality, but everything to do with absolute reality – the constant presence and protection of God the father.

Still for Him (Tuesday, January 31)

God, keep me still. I read this line in a poem recently and was struck by its double meaning. It could be a plea for God to continue caring for us through all the years – that the Lord still watches over us no matter what we have gone through. But it could also be an appeal for God to keep us still or quiet. We could be praying that God would stop us from struggling away from his will and acting on our own. Perhaps we realize that we need to be calm and silent when we long to be active and involved.

Frequently throughout the day we are tempted to react to all sorts of incidents: someone makes a statement that hurts our feelings, a person pulls out in front of us in traffic, people act in ways that upset us or life is just not going our way. Whatever it is, we want justice. We want to make our personal thought and feelings known to the world.

Keep me still, God, should be our daily desire in all of our dealings. Before we become angry and frustrated, let us calm down long enough to let the Lord control our emotions. May we seek his stillness rather than our spite. We will never regret what he tells us to do. In contrast, we will most certainly pay for our pride.

Our way or his? The choice is ours. His will may be harder at first, yet easier in the long run. On the other hand, our way is simpler in the beginning but much more difficult in the end as we toil to clean up the mess we have made of things. God, keep me still for my own good and for yours.

Change for the better (Wednesday, January 25)

I want God to make me a better person and a stronger disciple. I want him to do what he needs to do in order for me to be more committed to him. Yet, at the same time, I don’t want it to hurt or be painful in any way. I want to change without having to change.

I know I need more patience, but I want it to happen. I would like to wake up one morning and be filled with tolerance and perseverance for any situation. I would no longer get mad at any one or anything. As much as I wish it, that will never happen. Being able to endure tough circumstances can come only by being tried over and over again. I must practice each day.

With change comes pain. At first, it will hurt. Gradually, over time I will get used to doing what does not come naturally to me. One trial after another will make me stronger, just like exercising my body day after day.

As we allow God to transform us, let us trust him to take care of us as well. He knows how much we can handle and he will never push us beyond our limits.

The test (Tuesday, January 24)

As soon as I wrote a devotion about picturing the face of Jesus on everyone, I should have known that I would be tested. It wasn’t long before I was on the road behind a car with out-of-state plates. The driver went 35 mph in a 55 mph zone. Then, when the speed limit went down to 25 mph in a school zone, he went 35 mph. The more I saw this person driving without any regard to the traffic signs, the angrier I became.

I wondered what this person looked like. Suddenly, I remembered the meditation I had written that morning – everyone’s countenance bearing the likeness of Jesus. I have to admit, I calmed down. But still I was a little angry at this driver. He could hurt someone, I told myself, perhaps trying to excuse or disguise how I really felt inside.

Jesus calls us to follow his example if we are going to follow him. When we made the decision to let him into our heart, we also made the decision to live like him. That involves loving all people just as he does, in spite of how they drive or act.

Keep in mind that our actions often speak louder than our words. Sometimes we don’t have to say anything, but our personal anger comes through in how we conduct ourselves. Let us make sure this day that we act and talk like Christ, remembering that he loves each person as much as he loves us.

Whom do you see? (Monday, January 23)

We need to be careful of how we look at those around us. Not from our perspective, but from what we see in them. How others appear to us affects what we think, or even believe, about their character.

In our part of the country, there is a popular television commercial that begs viewers to look at everyone like $100 bills. The purpose is to picture them wearing the face of Benjamin Franklin, who appears on the note. You can earn an easy $100 for every person who switches to your satellite television company. Quite an incentive in these harsh economic times.

Using the same metaphor, what if we imagined everyone with the face of Jesus? The people you see on the street, at the mall, in the grocery store and, as difficult as it might be, those at work. I suspect our attitude toward all people, friends and strangers alike, might be radically different. What we see – the likeness of Jesus – would dramatically transform our thinking and actions as well as theirs.

Years ago, I heard a preacher on the radio offer advice on what to do when we are tempted to become upset with someone. He said to picture the person as a child of four or five years old because it is always hard to be mad at an innocent girl or boy. The same holds true for us today: see everyone with the face of Jesus. I dare say it is impossible for us to be angry with him.

Seek the good (Sunday, January 22)

The headlines in any newspaper across the country reveal the very worst in the world. People commit all kinds of crimes, each one more shocking than the other. At times it may seem as though God has abandoned us and left us to our own devices. But he is with us daily. All we have to do is to look in the right places.

We need to go beyond the world that we have made and look at the world that God has made. The wonder of his creation is everywhere: in the changing of the seasons, in the magnificence of a forest, in the invisible wind, in the joyful sounds of children on a playground, in the care of a loving grandmother, in the fruits and vegetables that nourish our bodies, in the golden clouds of a sunrise. These prove God’s constant presence in the universe and in our lives.

We do not have to go very far to experience him. All we need to do is look at ourselves: the hands that move when we wish, the feet that can take us anywhere, the eyes that help us see both beauty and tragedy, the ears that hear the cries of others and the arms that can comfort the lost.

You and I are, indeed, fearfully and wonderfully made. We are the miracles of life! This day may seem, at first glance, like another ordinary day – one more day of bad news everywhere we look. Let us take a peek behind the scenes, though, and glimpse the amazing splendor of God’s world where all things are made new.

In or out of control (Saturday, January 21)

Losing control can be a good thing, if done properly. Losing control of our emotions is never what we want, of course. But losing control of our need to be in control can be the best thing for us.

There have been many times when I have tried to take over for God – to show him or tell him what needs to be done. Even recently, I thought I should serve on a certain committee at church because of my experience and expertise. Yet, it was not to be even though I tried to convince God otherwise. I was up against his will and he had his plan.

I am slowly learning that seeking positions of control or authority are not what our lives are all about. Nor is it good for us to want to control other people and situations. We must realize that God wants us to give up control and allow him complete rule in everything.

God can only be “our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble,” if we let him. Difficult days should not be the only time when we give up control to him. He must be in control all of the time if we really trust him to be our Father, Savior and Spirit.

Reformed (Friday, January 20)

Being conformed to God’s will allows us to be reformed in his image. You and I cannot be like him until we give in to him, and unless we accept his ways. Once we are able to be molded into what he wants, then we are reformed in all parts of our life.

Desire and discipline go hand in hand. One without the other will not work. First, there needs to be a desire to change. Second, there must be a requisite for change. The whole process is what shapes our will into his. This is how we become one with him; it also is the only way he can live in us.

But we often lack the control we require to be reformed. We want to change, yet we do not wish to go through the rigors of being restrained. We want a method that is painless and effortless. There are no easy fixes, though, for becoming more like Jesus. We will have to suffer for him.

In the end, when God is finished, we will be a new creature. We will be recreated and ready to do whatever he asks. All that we once were is vanished. In its place is a disciplined spirit. What began as a desire to please him is now a perfected heart to gratify him.

Lord (Thursday, January 19)

How we think of Jesus determines how we live each day. Do we see him as Savior? Do we view him as King? Or is he God’s beloved Son? He is all three. But first and foremost we must treat him as the Lord of our life.

We willingly and gladly serve him, no matter what he asks us to do. We know he knows us; he will not ask us to do anything that will bring us harm. We trust him without question and without doubt. We do not hesitate to obey him. We have faith that he will take care of us in all situations, protecting us and providing for us.

Paul said it is critical that we publically proclaim his lordship in our lives. “If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved” (Romans 10:9).

Make it a point today to express aloud, even if it is to yourself as you are driving in your car or at home alone, that Jesus is Lord. Remind yourself who he is, and that you will serve him not out of obligation but out of dedication.

Standing steadfast (Wednesday, January 18)

We may not be able to comfort a loved one far away in the hospital, but God can. We may not be able to help a friend who has shut out everyone in his life, but God can. We may not be able to change a condition that is out of our control, but God can.

Our Lord can accomplish anything, even things we can only think about. His love and care can penetrate the largest obstacle and reach the most impossible. There are no boundaries – not distance, time, space or situation – for God. The Holy Spirit can be anywhere at any time in any form; it is not limited by the physical realities of this world.

In the face of all we will encounter this day, may we develop the faith in God’s ability to go beyond our earthly difficulties. We need to memorize the following verse, repeating it over and over again, until we begin to believe and know it is so: “[We] will have no fear of bad news; [our] heart is steadfast, trusting in the Lord” (Psalm 112:7).

Welcome, Jesus (Tuesday, January 17)

Looking at the wrong things. All of us are guilty of noticing what is negative about people and situations. In a room full of good students, for example, a teacher usually will focus on the bad child. In a workplace filled with dedicated employees, the person who is critical and judgmental all of the time will attract most of the attention. Also, when we go to the store, we complain about what we could not find rather than being grateful for all of the items we can purchase. Our emotional instincts naturally draw us to focus on anything bothersome, disappointing or upsetting.

Those living in Jesus’ day were much the same as we are now. Ironically, the people in one certain town begged Jesus to stay away because they believed his presence would be harmful. Rather than welcoming him, they actually pleaded with him to leave. They blamed him for the deaths of a herd of pigs. You may recall that when Jesus entered the region of Gadarenes, he encountered two demon-possessed men. He sent the evil spirits into a herd of pigs who then ran off a cliff and into a lake.

Word quickly spread. Soon, wrote Matthew, “the whole town went out to meet Jesus. And when they saw him, they pleaded with him to leave their region” (Matthew 8:34). Never mind the two men who were completely cured. The villagers were worried their livelihoods would suffer just like the herdsmen who owned the swine. These people did not want their lives to change and they certainly did not want to suffer any sort of loss. Biblical commentator Adam Clarke explains, “They love[d] even their swine better than their salvation.”

What captures most of our attention these days? Is it what is positive (the two men who were healed) or the negative (the pigs that drowned)? Maybe we need to do a much better job of seeing all of the good in life rather than the bad. Stop being so pessimistic and start being more hopeful. Let’s really welcome Jesus into our lives and let him help us.

A living sanctuary (Monday, January 16)

What if our churches were truly places of refuge, sanctuary and assistance? Not just on Sunday or one other day during the week, but every day. People would know if they needed help, physically or spiritually, that all they had to do was come to the nearest church. There they would find neighbors, people just like them, who would listen and provide assistance.

The church may not be able to do everything. Yet, we have to begin doing a better job of serving our communities. We have to be there for more than weekly worship and maybe a bake sale or two. Our buildings can be beacons of hope for the needy. We have so much to offer, yet people may not realize what goes on behind our walls. We need to reach out in order to get the message out. People must hear the good news of salvation for the future and they also have to know we can help in other ways right now.

Thousands of individuals drive by my church every week. I wonder how many of them think about stopping for one reason or another. Maybe they are having a hard time at work, difficulties at home, problems in their marriage. Perhaps they just need some food to make it through the next few days until they get paid. It could be, too, that they need medical attention but have no money for treatment.

Some years ago, there was a motel chain that used the motto, “We’ll keep the light on for you.” These same words would be good for our churches to adopt as well.

Restoration (Sunday, January 15) 

God is as far from sin as light is from the darkness. Sin is the very opposite of God. Essentially, sin is living in the absence of God. Though our Father is always with us, he is not present in our sin. We are completely and entirely on our own when we decide to go against him.

When Moses murdered the Egyptian, God was not present in the act but he was with Moses. The same is true of King David and his sin. Scripture contains one story after another about a devoted child of God who made a deliberate decision to disobey.

Even though we may sin, God still is able to accept us because of the blood of his son. Jesus made the atonement for each one of us on the cross. His sacrifice 2,000 years ago makes it possible today for God to accept us when we fall.

God desires that none of us would sin. But he knows we are weak and frail. He knows that sometimes we would follow our will instead of his. In his great grace and mercy, he made forgiveness possible. The fact that God sent his only son to restore our relationship with him proves how much we are worth. He loves us too much to be separated from us forever.

Perfecting our faith (Saturday, January 14) 

We cannot afford to be confident or smug in knowing we are justified by faith. The reason is that, most of the time, our faith is not all it should be. We go through periods of doubt and fear, uncertainty and hesitation.

Thankfully, the level of our faith does not determine whether we are justified or not. Jesus said if we have faith the size of a mustard seed then we could move mountains; nothing will be impossible. Even a little bit of faith, no larger than a grain, makes us acceptable in his eyes. Still, we need to keep strengthening and developing our faith.

Each tiny step takes us a little closer to believing in him – to trusting him. It is a gradual process, much like climbing a mountain. St. Paul wrote that our suffering produces perseverance; perseverance leads to character; and character develops hope. He adds that God’s hope, not our own, does not disappoint.

Let us keep perfecting our faith as if it depends on being justified, but knowing all the while that it does not.

Casting your nets (Friday, January 13)

Has Jesus ever told you to put down your nets on the other side? Perhaps you have been looking and waiting for something to happen in your life. No matter how hard you tried, there was nothing. It is like Peter and his brothers who kept trying to catch fish all night and came back to shore with empty nets. They had nothing to show for their effort and time.

You might feel empty today, as if you have little to show despite what you have been doing. Maybe Jesus is telling you to put down your nets on the other side, just as he instructed Peter.

Jesus said, “Put out into deep water, and let down the nets for a catch." Simon answered, "Master, we've worked hard all night and haven't caught anything. But because you say so, I will let down the nets." When they had done so, they caught such a large number of fish that their nets began to break. So they signaled their partners in the other boat to come and help them, and they came and filled both boats so full that they began to sink.

It could be that Jesus is telling you today to move over to the other side, to look in the opposite direction whether you need a new job, a healing, help for your finances or even hope for tomorrow. Stop looking at your empty nets and fish where Jesus says. If you do, your boat will be full to overflowing – so much so that it will begin to sink under the anointed blessing of your Savior and Master.

Watching or waiting? (Thursday, January 12)

Are you watching or waiting for Jesus Christ to return? There is a vast difference between these two actions. Waiting for Jesus means we are going about our day, business as usual, as we pass the time. Watching for Jesus implies a growing sense of expectation – a keenness and eagerness for his coming. We are excited for what we will see.

The late Adrian Rogers of Love Worth Finding Ministries once offered a brilliant example of the distinction between watching and waiting. One day in a small fishing village many people in the town were waiting for a particular boat to return from several days at sea. As the ship approached the harbor, the captain on board was looking through his binoculars at the wharf. He spotted many of the fishermen’s wives standing on the pier. “There’s Sam’s wife Elizabeth; there’s Bill’s wife Mary; there Jack’s wife Emma.” On and on he went, naming all of the women waiting for their husbands. There was one fisherman’s wife, though, who was not present.

When the boat docked, the wives rushed to their spouses and hugged them. The one lone fisherman walked by the joyful crowd, up the steep hill to his house. He walked in the door and his wife said cheerfully, “I’m so glad you’re home. I’ve been waiting for you.” He looked at her and responded, “Yes, I know you’ve been waiting for me. But you weren’t watching for me like the other wives.”

Jesus told us to “keep watch, because [we] do not know on what day [our] Lord will come” (Matthew 24:42). Whether we are ready will depend on one thing: if we are watching (in hopeful anticipation) rather than merely waiting.

He is all we need (Wednesday, January 11)

When our minds are troubled, usually the trouble is that we are thinking about ourselves. We look at most things from our perspective only. We need to realize the minute we turn our thoughts away from God and to ourselves, we lose the peace we so desperately need each day.

We all have days when our life seems to be falling apart – when everything is coming at us all at once. One difficulty after another attacks us. We are fine one moment. The next minute, the weight of the world is too much to bear. Each one of the little problems escalates into a crisis and we cannot untangle ourselves from overwhelming disaster.

The story of Mary and Martha reveals how quickly we can let a situation ravel out of control. Luke says that Martha was anxious and “distracted by all the preparations that had to be made” when Jesus came for dinner. She was on her own to decide what to make, gather and arrange all of the ingredients, clean and cook the many items, set the table and serve the food. Martha must have been completely frazzled when she finally exclaimed to Jesus, “Lord don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!” (Luke 10:40). All the while, peaceful and serene, Mary “sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what he said.”

Martha was concerned about everything but Jesus. Mary only about him. “You are worried and upset about many things,” Jesus said to Martha. “But few things are needed; indeed, only one.” Jesus is all we need in trying times. When we feel ready to explode, we must force ourselves to sit down at Jesus’ feet and listen quietly to what he says. Once we hear his gentle voice, nothing else on earth will seem more important.

What do I know? (Tuesday, January 10)

I am often very quick to evaluate a decision by someone and declare that the person is making the wrong choice. What is especially frustrating is even after I point out the obvious, the person still makes the incorrect decision (or so it seems to me).

Our daughter and her husband had to purchase another vehicle after their truck was stolen. My wife contacted her brother, who works for an automobile dealer, and he found a wonderful car. It had low mileage, new brakes, the inside was spotless and the engine checked out perfectly. Rather than taking our advice and buy the car, they went to a local used car lot and purchased an eight-cylinder, 10-year-old Cadillac with almost 80,000 miles. We were disappointed, but it was their decision.

If we truly believe what we say about our belief in God and in following the example of Jesus, we now need to spend our time praying for them and their “new” car rather than constantly telling them they made the wrong decision. We need to ask God to bless them instead of looking forward to when the car breaks down so we can declare, “I told you so.”

After all, what do I know? This Cadillac could last another 80,000 miles with no major problems while the vehicle we recommended could break down in less than a year. God is the only one who knows the outcome of any decision or situation. Maybe we can remember that the next time we offer our opinion. It is fine to give advice. Once a decision is made, though, let’s not be a sorry sport and walk away disgruntled and angry. Let us look to God for his blessing and approval, both upon the other person and us as well.

Put your heart into it (Monday, January 9)

Many things we do for the Lord we tend to do out of obedience or obligation. We feel a certain sense of duty to serve even when our heart is not in it. Sometimes we must force ourselves to follow through with our responsibilities. Most of the time, however, we need to think and pray before we act. We must align our aspirations with those of God.

God says he will give us the desires of our heart. He does not mean he will grant us anything we want or crave. His intent is for us to bring our heart in line with his. When our will is the same as his, we are able to receive everything we ask. We even receive what we need without asking.

The children who live behind us are always playing in the backyard. They run through sprinklers and jump on their trampoline. All the while, they yell, shout, laugh and scream. They are enjoying themselves. I am sure they do not have to make themselves have fun; it is something that comes naturally to them because they are children.

We are children of God. We need to do what comes naturally to us: serving our Father with glad and eager hearts. No matter what he asks us to do today, let us do it from the very center of our being. Let us put our heart and soul into enjoying his will for us.

Not a coincidence (Sunday, January 8)

How many times have certain persons come to mind and, then, suddenly we see them at the store? Or we receive an unexpected phone call or email? Perhaps we are deep in prayer when God places a name in our mind. Much later, we find out that this individual was going through some difficulty at exactly the same time we were praying.

To the world, these are coincidences – oddities that happen by chance. Nothing more than serendipity. But what are the odds of such things occurring hundreds or thousands of time in a lifetime? More than a million to one, I suppose.

I believe there are reasons and purposes for why we recall people for no reason at all. It is all about God’s design for us and them. When someone thinks about us or we think about someone, we instantly remember our concern and compassion for that person. We ask the Holy Spirit to take care of and protect those whom we love.

Our love for others is stronger than any other emotion or power in the world. Yes, we can show our love in material ways. But the greater love is that which lives on the spiritual level, the kind of love that keeps us together even when we are apart. Love is the invisible tie that binds us to one another. So it is natural, and right, that we will be drawn to think about each other from time to time out of love.

Live by the Spirit (Saturday, January 7)

The Holy Spirit remains a mystery to us. We cannot put form or shape to it as we try to do with Jesus or the Father. Yet, in spite of what we think or can even imagine, we are moved by the Holy Spirit countless times each day.

The Spirit comes to us through sublime inflections and enunciations, exhorting us with words directly from the Lord himself. More often than not, we dismiss these promptings, ignoring whatever is without substance or reason. Our earthly limitations prevent us from believing what we cannot express or explain. But God’s divine ways never will seem sensible to us as long as we are living as human beings.

Driving by a hospital one day, on my way to the store, I suddenly remembered a man who had been admitted. He was a member of our church and was not doing well. I continued on and told myself I would visit him another day when I had more time. Now I know why the Holy Spirit was stirring me to stop. Bill died a few days later.

The apostle Paul told the Galatians (5:16) to live by the Spirit so they would not be led by the desires of the flesh. The flesh seeks worldly actions that make sense, while the Spirit seeks God’s will for a heavenly purpose. I wish I would have been living by the Spirit the day I passed the hospital. I would have fulfilled God’s will and seen my old friend Bill one more time.

Not alone (Friday, January 6)

In the quiet stillness within the darkness of night, we have a chance to be closer to God than at any other time. There are no distractions to keep us from reaching out to him: no phones, no television, no appointments or activities. Just us and our Lord. He is there in the solitude, surrounding us with his love and care.

I imagine his presence to be much like that of someone who sits by our bedside throughout the night, making sure we are safe and secure. We always feel more comfortable when we know there is someone keeping watch over us.

Though it was not the same as God’s presence, I used to spend nights with my father in the hospital before he died. I would arrive around 1 or 2 a.m. and stay until the morning light came again. My father slept soundly realizing he was not alone despite the emptiness of the night.

God is with us no matter how long the night seems. The minutes go by slowly and the hours drag on. But God is there. We may not be able to see him physically. We can, however, feel him as we speak in silent prayer. He draws close to us through the Spirit, giving us a peace and comfort that assures us we are not alone.

Taking control (Thursday, January 5)

To be like Christ means that our heart and mind must be going in the same direction. For us to make any progress, to keep moving forward in our lives, the two differing natures of our self must be in complete agreement. We cannot think about going one way when we really feel like going in another.

I might realize in my head that I need to lose weight, but nothing will happen until I put my heart into making the effort to change. I need to be passionate about becoming thinner and healthier. Then, with my knowledge and emotions so aligned, I can face any obstacle that threatens to hold me back.

In each case, God will give me what I need to be successful. “You did not choose me,” Jesus said, “but I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit – fruit that will last. Then the Father will give you whatever you ask in my name” (John 15:16). On my own, I cannot control myself. But with the Lord’s help, I can defeat even my strongest feelings.

Paradise (Wednesday, January 4)

What vision do you have for yourself? The way you and I see ourselves at this moment can determine, in large measure, how we live today. Do you feel tired, worn out, defeated, anxious? Or do you feel happy, excited, full of life and energy? Your vision will set your mood, and your mood defines your vision.

Scripture tells us that, “My [God’s] people perish for lack of knowledge.” Some interpretations use the word vision instead of knowledge. Either way, the statement is true. We will perish (spiritually, mentally and physically) if we do not have the proper knowledge of God or if we do not envision the wonderful future he has for us.

We will spend eternity with Our Lord in paradise. Think for a moment of living in joy and peace, praising God forever. There will be no pain, no suffering, no disappointment, no worry, no poverty, no problems and no disease. Our lives will be made perfect in him and for him.

As I look toward that day, I can gain renewed strength for this day. Today may not be all I might want it to be. But I can still live right now knowing the very best is yet to come and that it will last forever!

To worry or not (Tuesday, January 3)

For most of us, we are guilty of always worrying about or planning for tomorrow. While we are going through one day, we are already dwelling on the next. We think about the meeting we have to attend, the shopping we need to do and the many things we want to complete.

Much of the time, we are not where we are. Physically, we may be living in Monday, but our minds have moved on to Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. Not only are we missing many important details of our journey today. We also are using up ourselves on things that have not happened yet.

“Do not worry about tomorrow,” Jesus said, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” We spend and expend too much of our time and energy on the future. We have more than enough to deal with today, and yet we add the troubles of tomorrow. So, too, we have enough strength for this day and we use much of it worrying about the next 24 hours.

Let us not wear ourselves out or down by trying to take care of situations before they occur. Remember, God has prepared us for what he has asked us to do. He is confident about tomorrow and we should be as well.

We confound the world (Monday, January 2)

God uses us in impossible situations to prove his power to the world. Moses took the Israelites out of bondage even after he killed an Egyptian. Peter became the rock of the early church despite denying Christ three times. Paul was the first great missionary in the face of previous persecutions against the Church. No matter where we think we have failed, God wants to use these circumstances. He wants to show the world that he is still in control.

Only by using a broken and contrite heart can God make his point. When we have been defeated by the world, we have a different outlook on life. We, more than anyone else, realize that most of what occurs around us each day is out of our hands. We learn to trust God and have faith that he is protecting us from harm. We reach the realization that only God can change our circumstances. It is at that point when God suddenly steps in to prove his might and power. He shows the world that what was rejected by man is most treasured and valued in the Kingdom.

Despite our shattered past or our damaged reputation, God wants to complete the good work he has begun in us. We can either follow his path toward glory or continue to let the world use us. God is waiting for us to decide.

I will in 2012 (Sunday, January 1, 2012)

On the evening of Jesus’s last night on earth, Peter wondered why he could not continue to go with Jesus, even though he was unsure what was ahead. “Lord, why can’t I follow you now,” Peter asked. “I will lay down my life for you” (John 13:37). Scripture says that Jesus answered Peter with a question: “Will you really lay down your life for me?” (John 13:38). We all know what happened next.

During the past year, we have often acted like Peter. Can we possibly count the number of times we have vowed to follow Jesus anywhere, pledging with our whole heart that “I will lay down my life for you.” Then, suddenly and unexpectedly, we have disowned him. We have walked away, kept silent and even renounced him.

Maybe the reason was out of fear, personal safety, loss of reputation or being rejected by others. Whatever we have done, and no matter how often, Jesus has forgiven us. Now, it is time to move on – to forget about our former days and think about nothing but the future.

As we begin a new year in our Lord and Savior, let us promise to serve him in spite of the difficulty, the suffering, the pain and the sacrifice. May we say “I will lay down my life for you” and truly mean it, just as Jesus did for us.

Changing (Saturday, December 31)

The rebellious nature of the human condition is hard to understand. More difficult to comprehend is how to stop it. St. Paul wrestled with this issue as he attempted to resolve the vast difference between his desire and God’s will. “I do not understand what I do,” he wrote. “For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do. . . . For I do not do the good I want to do, but the evil I do not want to do – this I keep on doing” (Romans 7:15, 19).

So it is with us. We keep on doing those things we do not want to do. At times, it seems as though we are powerless to change in spite of how hard we try. The truth is that we cannot change ourselves. Only God can alter our spirit.

We have to let go of everything that holds us captive to our own will. Until we do so, we will remain in bondage to sin and wrongdoing. We will never stop doing what we hate to do unless we replace the evil in our hearts with the complete love of God.

Renewed knowledge (Friday, December 30)

Christmas never ends. Nor does Easter. The birth and death of our Lord and Savior are present each day of our lives as constant reminders of the expanse of our own lives. Like Jesus, we are born to serve God and we will one day return to our heavenly place.

Our time on earth is measured by the spiritual values of love, dedication, commitment and persistence. What we do for the Lord is all that will matter on the day when we stand before him. God will see the true nature of our hearts as we changed through the years. He will judge us by his heavenly standards, not by those of man.

God will not be influenced by what has happened to us at the hands of our fellow human beings – even our own. His one and only concern is how much we have trusted and believed in him. Our faith and works will tell him all he needs to know.

Though our sins throughout all of life will be “like scarlet,” Isaiah 1:18 also reminds us that “they shall be as white as snow.” In his eyes, we will be pure and spotless. Our iniquities will be gone. “As far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us” (Psalm 103:12). May this renewed knowledge give us new confidence and hope today as we live for him.

An old year (Thursday, December 29)

Going from one year to another is not hard. In a couple of days, we will watch the remaining minutes tick away. At the stroke of midnight, a new year will begin. We will have 365 days in front of us – another 12 months full of hope and possibilities.

The transition from one year to the next will not be marked by any great event in the cosmos or by an unnatural occurrence here on earth. The only way we will know that one year has ended is by our calculations and celebrations. We will watch the second hand on our clocks and see, with our own eyes, the new year begin.

What we are observing, of course, is a new start. All of our old failures and disappointments are gone. They passed away in the ending of this past year. Now we have another chance to overcome the past and to do things right.

But let us not deceive ourselves into thinking we can become perfect. We will make mistakes, just as we have these past 52 weeks. What can be different, though, is how we deal with our shortcomings – the way we react when we fall short of the mark. May we spend this year looking more to heaven. It is there that we will find both our hope and our future.

The divine plan (Wednesday, December 28)

The essence of Christmas is found in spiritual transformation. Through the savior’s birth, our lives are made new – reformed and reborn – regardless of what we see with our earthly vision. The heavenly message, the very word of God, is proclaimed to all who will listen. Only those that are willing to believe what they hear, rather than what they see, will understand and be comforted.

Reflecting on my life – on what has brought me to this particular time and place – I realize I have been both a victim and a victor. I have fallen victim to the world’s problems and tribulations, yet I have experienced victory through God’s power and strength. Despite many hardships, I know my life is much more than an accident. Each of my days has been carefully planned by a loving Creator. He designed and ordered my years even before I was born.

So it was with Jesus as well. Before his birth in Bethlehem, God prepared each detail of our Savior’s life. Old Testament prophesies told and retold for centuries, many times over, about the coming of the Messiah. The Book of Matthew also recounts precisely the 42 generations from the time of Abraham to the holy birth. That Jesus was born at a certain time and place was no coincidence. All had been divinely structured even before the universe began.

We are alive today, living in this place, because of God’s will. He has a unique purpose for each one of us, just as he did for his only begotten son. As we celebrate the gift of the Christ child this season, let us recognize the new life we have through him. Not only do we have purpose and meaning through his birth, but we also witness the fulfillment of God’s perfect plan in our lives today.

Our song of hope (Tuesday, December 27)

One of the most beautiful passages of scripture is Mary’s song in Luke 1:46-55. Here, Mary gives thanks to the Lord for all he has done in her life, especially for the wondrous birth of Jesus that is about to take place. “The mighty one has done great things for me,” she confesses, “Holy is his name.”

At this season of the year, we need to think about these same words. Indeed, the Lord has done great things for us as well. In spite of our many sins, our thoughtless actions and our unkind words, we have been blessed. We have been given much more than we truly deserve.

Out of love and mercy, God has selected us to be his humble servants. He has touched us in a special way, for his purpose, and he will not let us fall. Just as he did with Mary, he will do great things for us because we have been chosen by him.

The unexpected (Monday, December 26)

In the birth of Jesus, we find the unexpected. There are no huge gatherings, no royal proclamations and no grand festivals. Instead, we find humble shepherds who are suddenly startled by a host of angels. The men are terrified by the sight of these strange apparitions in the night sky, but they are profoundly comforted by the simple message. They did as they were told and went to see this savior who had been born.

What do we expect to find as we come to the manger this Christmas? Are we shocked or confused by what we see? Are we like the shepherds who, at first, do not understand the significance of what has occurred? The point that truly matters is whether we are willing to believe what we are told, even though the truth defies all we know and have experienced about life itself.

We are shepherds (Sunday, December 25)

On the night of Jesus’ birth, the shepherds were the first to know. God sent an angel to them to announce that a savior had been born. Suddenly, they left the fields and hurried off to see this baby in a manger. These common men at once understood the message and began spreading the word throughout the countryside.

Sadly, too many people today still do not comprehend what occurred more than 2,000 years ago. The story of the virgin birth remains a myth – nothing more than a tale to create a peaceful and pleasant backdrop for the Christmas season. In most cases, the truth and essence of this heavenly miracle is obscured, overshadowed, by the rush of holiday shopping.

We can only ponder what might have happened if the shepherds were too busy or concerned over their flocks. Who would have told the world what happened? In the same way, you and I have to ask ourselves if we have become too caught up in the busy-ness of Christmas. Perhaps we have failed to tell others the message of the birth.

The men in the fields on that eventful night in Bethlehem have long since left this world. Now we must be the shepherds who spread the word. We have to let people know that the savior’s birth is more than a story. The gospels, each in their own way, record the reality and facts for us today. Let us, as contemporary watchmen and followers, declare the divine message so that all who hear are amazed, just as those living long ago.

He is our hope (Saturday, December 24)

How incredible that the hope of the universe was given to the world in the form of a child born in Bethlehem. God chose the sublime rather than the obvious to announce the birth of a savior.

In this single act, we see the gentleness and compassion of our father. Jesus became flesh so that we might see both the beauty and the frailty of our very lives. We can only imagine the wonder and awe felt by the shepherds and, months later, the three wise men who had traveled hundreds of miles. What must they have thought as they beheld this tiny child?

As we reflect on their experience, we need think about how we might have reacted. We must ponder the meaning of what we see in front of us. The image is much more than a baby in a manger. In this small child, we must recognize our own salvation and be willing to praise God for what we do not totally understand.

The light of the world (Friday, December 23)

Perhaps the reason why Christmas seems one of the most beautiful times of the year is because we take time to appreciate what God has given us. In spite of the shopping, decorating, baking and traveling we pause, ever so briefly, to celebrate being alive.

The birth of a child reminds us of the simple gift of life. No matter what we may be experiencing, Christmas focuses our attention on people. Friends and family become more important than all of the richest gifts under the tree. What shines most in our hearts is the treasure of memories we unwrap over and over in our minds. With each passing year, the remembrances are sweeter and more fragrant. They fill our life with meaning and purpose.

A tiny babe lying in a manger is the perfect symbol of Christmas. There, among the rustic surroundings, our attention is drawn to life itself. He is the light of the world that took away the darkness both now and forever, and his light shines through us to give us eternal and everlasting life.

Following our star (Thursday, December 22)

After seeing the heavenly star in the east, the wise men began a journey that lasted months and covered more than a thousand miles. They traveled from Persia to Jerusalem just to see this special child that had been born.

How far are we willing to go today to follow the light that points the way to our salvation? Often we lack the patience and strength to last a few days, not to mention several months or even a year. We are tempted to give up too soon, to lose hope because we are tired or weary. You and I easily lose sight of the real reason for our journey.

We are headed to see our king – to honor, adore, praise and worship him. Before we reach that holy and eternal place, we must cross many hardships through storms, deserts and seas. On the way we also will encounter those who would rob of us of our purpose and goodness. If we are serious, we will continue on no matter what we have to endure.

We may be tired, weak and worn, but what matters is to reach the holy city. Once we behold his face and see him with our own eyes, all the past trials and tribulations will suddenly disappear. Then, at last, we can say our journey is finished. 

Mary and Joseph (Wednesday, December 21)

Mary was ecstatic to be chosen by God. She, among all the women in the world, would give birth to the Christ child. The first chapter of Luke captures her awe and wonder over what was about to happen: “My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior. . . . From now on all generations will call me blessed, for the Mighty One has done great things for me. Holy is his name.”

Joseph, however, did not share her joy. Not in the least. Matthew 1 says that, “Joseph her husband was faithful to the law, and yet did not want to expose her to public disgrace. He had in mind to divorce her quietly.”

Mary praised God; Joseph wanted a divorce. Mary was proud; Joseph was ashamed. Mary was honored; Joseph was dishonored. She trusted the Lord; he did not. After an angel appeared to Joseph in a dream, he finally did what the Lord commanded. He took Mary home to be his wife.

We will never know, of course, what might have occurred if an angel would have met Joseph before he learned the news about Mary. The point is that he was not willing, on his own, to trust God and continue to be “faithful to the law.” Where will we find ourselves this Christmas? Are we willing to believe what happened long ago or are we, too, waiting for an angel to appear? May we use our faith this season much more than our sight. Then, at last, we will be able to see and appreciate this heavenly miracle for ourselves.

A tiny light (Tuesday, December 20)

One by one, the Christmas lights are going up on our street. House after house is beginning to glow in the night. Some have colored lights strung out across gutters while others have brightly colored snowmen, reindeer, elves and Santas. Each yard and lawn takes on a magical beauty as tiny bulbs, some no larger than a drop of rain, transform an ordinary landscape into something extraordinary.

So it is with the birth of Jesus. A small child was born to change the world – to bring light and life to everyone throughout the centuries. An ordinary birth became an extraordinary event because it was the Son of God who suddenly appeared in flesh.

Each time we see a colorful display in our community or at the mall, let us remember the silent night when our Savior appeared. Suddenly, out of the darkness, a star burst forth in the East and a multitude of angels sang praises to the King. The shepherds were stirred from their slumber in the fields and rushed to spread the good news to the rest of the world.

You and I have witnessed this great occasion as well. We know the story and have seen the difference Jesus has made in our own lives. Let us tell it everywhere we go this season. One little birth made all the difference in the world and for all eternity. May his light shine through us as we share the meaning of what happened in the manger so long ago. He came then to save us now. One little light changed everything.

Focus on the victory (Monday, December 19)

Forgetting the past means letting go of the painful moments, yet remembering how God has brought us through these great difficulties. It is easy to recall how we have been hurt by situations in life. Our minds vividly replay the scenes as though we are watching a movie about our lives. Each word and every detail appear in minute clarity, reminding us of previous wounds. Unfortunately, we never stay long enough to see how the past ends: how God has brought us through safely. He has made sure we were not harmed, no matter what the circumstance.

Somehow we always ignore the fact that God protects us through each storm. He has been with us in the past and he will be with us in the future. What lies before us now is no different than what we have been through in the past. But our hope for tomorrow must rest solely in God – in his mantle of love and protection. This divine assurance is what we possess through our faith and belief in him. It is our birthright and it is what separates us from the rest of world. God has made a blood covenant with us. He promises never to leave us nor forsake us.

The Old Testament is full of examples when God’s people forgot about his powerful presence; they thought he had abandoned them. They did not remember what he had done in the past and so they had no hope for the future. Let us not make the same mistakes. Let us forget the pains of the past, and concentrate on how we have been victorious through God. In the end, the victory over trials and tribulations is all that will matter, not our brief time of suffering.

Using his time wisely (Sunday, December 18)

In lives that are already too full and busy, we always try to do more. We want to accomplish one more task at work before we leave for the day, we want to run another errand before we head home and we want to finish one more thing around the house before we sit down in the evening. In all our activity and running around, we have little time for God. We may take a few minutes in the morning to think about him, but then we set out day on our own. It is almost as if we have left God behind in our rush to make the most of our day.

What we often forget is that our lives should be spent following God, not having him follow us. Somehow, we think God chases after us, taking care of all the problems and difficulties we encounter along the way. He is always with us, but he is there to guide and direct our path.

If we are sincere about our faith, and in wanting to grow closer to the Lord, we must let him direct our steps. We need to give up control of our lives in order to gain control of our time. As we allow God to show the way each day, we are able to slow down and enjoy the time he has given us. God gives us this day to use for his glory and service. He does not give us this day for us to see how much we can accomplish on our own. Each minute and hour belongs to him. How we use this time depends on how much we are willing to trust him.

The big picture (Saturday, December 17)

How often has God showed us and told us about his love. If we were to count all the Lord has done in our lives, whether we are young or old, we would need countless volumes. Multiply our blessings by the billions of people he has created and cared for since Adam and Eve. What written document could contain such greatness!

Though we should know better, our thoughts still wander throughout the universe whenever we run into trouble or have to endure something unpleasant. At heart, we are creatures of disbelief. Like the so-called doubting apostle Thomas, we lose our faith at the drop of a hat.

God has already told us, “For I know the plans I have for you. They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope” (Jeremiah 29:11). These are the Lord’s living words to you and me today. They were spoken to our brother Jeremiah, but they are for us as well.

The Lord’s design is for good – not disaster – to give us a fantastic future and hope. This is the big picture – how everything will wind up in the end. The unfortunate aspect is we always get hung up on the small things we stumble over along the way.

Live in the spirit (Friday, December 16)

How do you look to other people? Do they see who you are in the kingdom of heaven or do you seem like everyone else in the world? You and I should appear different than others. Not only in our appearance, but also in how we act, what we say and where we go. In every facet of our life we should shine and gleam like precious jewels, reflecting the wondrous glory of our divine Father.

There are sisters and brothers in the Church who always seem to be happy and full of joy. One woman in our congregation smiles constantly. She is excited to talk with everyone at anyplace or anytime. I have never heard her complain or grumble. She loves to tell what God is doing in her life. On the other hand, there is another woman who is a dedicated Christian as well. She is efficient and prompt at what she does, but usually gives the impression she is overworked, too busy and that life is a chore. She is quick to speak her mind on everything and does not take “no” for an answer from anyone.

Personalities aside, one of these two women suffers from numerous physical problems, any one of which is serious in itself. Can you guess which one? Ironically, it is the first. In spite of her failing and feeble health, she has a strong and vibrant outlook on life. Often, such is the case. People who seem to have a reason to bemoan their situation do not. The secret lies in what Paul wrote in one of his many letters. “The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace” (Romans 8:6).

Living by the spirit lifts us above the physical realities of our earthly plane. We may still feel pain, fatigue and weariness, but we consciously choose to dwell in the heavenly realm where there is infinite delight and bliss. Our gladness in the light and life of Jesus Christ enables us to transcend what we feel and think in the flesh.

Peace to you (Thursday, December 15)

We hardly know the true meaning of the word peace anymore. All around us there is unrest. You and I experience strife and conflict at work, in organizations, on the streets, among nations, between races, even in our homes and churches. No one is immune from the turbulence of life. People everywhere seem uneasy over one thing or another.

One popular dictionary defines the word peace as “a state of tranquility or quiet.” Another says peace is “a situation in which there is no war between countries or groups.” A third explains peace is “a situation in which there is no war or fighting.” No matter what our concept of peace is, all of us would agree that it denotes a state of calmness or serenity.

Still, there is another type of peace, one that we rarely consider. That is, peace as a verb – something active – rather than a noun. The original word comes from the Latin term pacisci, which means literally to “make a bargain or agreement.” In this context, Jesus’ words take on new import. When he says “my peace I give to you,” he means that he is making a covenant between us and him.

In the same manner, the heavenly proclamation to the shepherds on the night of Jesus’ birth reaffirms what God is doing for us. We are being given a divine gift from on high. “Glory to God in the highest,” sing the angels, “and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests” (Luke 2:14). According to Matthew Henry’s commentary, “Peace is . . . for all that good which flows to us from Christ's taking our nature upon him.”

This is not the peace of the world, but the streaming and constant peace of the kingdom – that which is between us and our Savior. Despite where we are right now or what we are doing, we are able to experience his sinless and flawless peace.

Being faithful (Wednesday, December 14)

We know that all things work together for good to those who love and serve God. Yet, Satan has a way of twisting things around and using these words against us. “Look at what happened to you,” he says cunningly. “You have done all these wonderful things for him. Now that you need him, where is he? Why did he let you down if he really wants what is best for you?”

If we are not careful, we might buy the clever rhetoric and overlook the fallacy. Satan’s argument seems to make sense, except for one thing: what we are going through at the moment is not the end of the story. There is much more for us to live and experience. The good that God is bringing out of evil may not show up for many months or years down the road. We have to be patient. We need to trust what God says, no matter how long we must wait.

For if we believe God for just a little while, and then give up, we do not have the faith we need to see the outcome. Going halfway in our faith will not get us anywhere. In fact, it may even make us worse and more upset.

We either trust wholly in God or not at all. How long we wait should not matter. Time is irrelevant when it comes to the ways of God. We can be sure that, in the end, he will reward those who have been faithful and punish those who have not. In order to be among the faithful, though, we have to have faith.

Making the choice (Tuesday, December 13)

The physical problems of life can be extremely tiresome. Far more difficult, and more dangerous, are the emotional struggles. Worry, anxiety and nervousness have tremendous power over the body. Fear over what may never happen can cripple even the healthiest and strongest individual.

God’s own words remind us repeatedly not to fret. “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand” (Isaiah 41:10). “Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you” (Psalm 55:22). "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life” (Matthew 6:25). “Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life” (Matthew 6:27). Need we hear more?

We talk a lot about obeying God. We want to do those things that please him and serve him best. But we are never much good at following what he tells us not to do. If the God of the universe tells us not to worry or be upset, there is a reason. Perhaps, most of all, he is protecting us from ourselves – from our propensity to worry ourselves to death over nothing.

Each time we worry or become anxious, we waste time and wear ourselves down. Whatever you are fussing about right now, ignore it. Don’t go down that path. Stop right where you are and think of how people might look at us with our suitcase full our angst and anxiety. “If you really believed in God,” I can hear others say somewhat ironically, “you wouldn’t worry so much.” Which one is stronger in us today? Is it our faith in the known (God) or our fear of the unknown (the world)? Faith and worry do not go together. Instead, they challenge one another and force us to choose.

Our heart and his (Monday, December 12)

Whatever we do for the Lord, we need to do it with passion and conviction. We must act and believe as though nothing matters more than fulfilling God’s will. Everything we have must go into everything we do for him.

The young choir director at our church always puts his heart, soul and body into leading the choir each Sunday. To look at him, you would think he is directing a choir of thousands rather than just 20 persons. His body moves fervently from side to side while his arms seem like they are actually blending the notes from the myriad of voices in thin air. He is a delight to watch because he truly delights in what he is doing.

Psalm 37:4 reminds us of the essence of life: “Delight yourself in the Lord and he will give you the desires of your heart.” Nothing pleases God more than when we want to please him. When we find our happiness in his will, then we will have everything we need. We will possess the desires of our heart because our heart and his are one in the same.

Be amazed (Sunday, December 11)

Could anyone living 2,000 years ago imagine what was about to happen at a dark manger in tiny Bethlehem? Who knew that the world was about to be turned upside down by the birth of a boy?

The only witnesses were his parents, Mary and Joseph, some shepherds and a few animals. But a heavenly host of angels appeared and worshiped the newborn child. A star in the East proclaimed the great news. All this while the entire town slept, unaware of the life-changing event that shook the universe.

This year, too, many people all around us will be oblivious to what is going on. They will not know why the trees are decorated or why they are giving gifts to one another. In their ignorance, they will not understand why we are celebrating and why we are crying.

There still is a need to tell the story of Christmas. Not the tale found in children’s books, but the real and true one. It is the account that Matthew and Luke gave us long ago. The message remains as new and bright as the night when it occurred. Let us remember and, once again, be amazed.

Release your anger (Saturday, December 10)

When something goes wrong in our lives, we instantly open the floodgates of the past and allow everything else to rush in. In an instant, we are swept away by our own emotions. We lose control and allow ourselves to become victims in a torrent of negative feelings.

Our minds are like a powerful computer. All it takes is one small thing to go wrong right now and, suddenly, we pull up all of the other related incidents that have hurt us. The effect is like that of a snowball careening out of control down a hill; it grows bigger and larger with each turn. The tiny ball becomes a boulder as it quickly rolls downward.

If you are like me, perhaps there is someone or something that keeps disturbing you. With the single mention or thought of a particular person or place, you immediately think of all the pain you experienced in the past: how you were humiliated, judged, rejected, embarrassed, demeaned and degraded. Each previous event in this particular episode of your life becomes larger than all of the parts and incidents put together. In no time at all, a molehill becomes a mountain that you created.

The only way we can forget the past is to forgive the person. Paul said to, “Let all bitterness and indignation and wrath (passion, rage, bad temper) and resentment (anger, animosity) and quarreling (brawling, clamor, contention) and slander (evil-speaking, abusive or blasphemous language) be banished from you, with all malice (spite, ill will, or baseness of any kind). And become useful and helpful and kind to one another, tenderhearted (compassionate, understanding, loving-hearted), forgiving one another [readily and freely], as God in Christ forgave you” (Ephesians 4:31-32 AMP).

It may be hard to forgive, but it has to be easier than getting angry over and over and over again. You can’t change the past, but you can change yourself.

Listen up (Friday, December 9)

Joshua fought the Battle of Jericho, but it was God who brought the victory. God told Joshua what to do each step of the way. He would fight the battle for Joshua. All Joshua had to do was listen to the Lord.

God’s instructions were clear and simple: “March around the city once with all the armed men. Do this for six days. Have seven priests carry trumpets of rams' horns in front of the ark. On the seventh day, march around the city seven times, with the priests blowing the trumpets. When you hear them sound a long blast on the trumpets, have all the people give a loud shout; then the wall of the city will collapse and the people will go up, every man straight in."

How often do you and I make things more difficult? We come up with all kinds of machinations and schemes when we are up against a problem or predicament. We plan our strategy, carefully calculating every move and countermove. We believe we are prepared to overcome the enemy when, in fact, the only thing we have done is to convince ourselves we are mightier than we think.

God has the answer and the victory in all circumstances. He will fight the battle for us if we are willing to listen to his commands. What he tells us to do may seem silly or ridiculous, but there is a reason. The only thing we need to understand is that it makes perfect sense to God. All we have to do is listen and obey.

You are forgiven! (Thursday, December 8)

We are justified by our faith, says St. Paul in his letter to the Romans. He makes clear the power of our belief: “Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God, through our Lord Jesus Christ” (Romans 5:1). Nothing can remove this grace, except for our own foolish thoughts.

Our past is full of snares and traps that convict us to guilt and shame. We all have things we regret. Maybe we said the wrong thing and the words still linger in our ears. Perhaps we acted poorly, in anger, and the scene remains like a haunting image in our mind’s eye. It could be the sin was something much worse.

We might grieve over the past all we want. The truth is we are powerless to make any changes now. What has been done is done. We can, however, move on with our lives because of Christ’s death. Paul explains that, “Since we have now been justified by his blood, how much more shall we be saved from God’s wrath through him” (Romans 5:9).

Our ugly past may trouble us at times, causing great anxiety in our hearts. The reality is that we have been reconciled by God through Jesus Christ. We do not need to continue rehearsing past events, not even for one second. Let the world think what it wants. Christ died for us and we are completely forgiven because of our faith in him.

Our love for him (Wednesday, December 7)

How can we begin to fathom the greatness of God? He is more powerful than all the forces in the universe, let alone those here on earth. He is larger than anything we can imagine and he is everywhere at all times, whether past, present or future. He is the beginning of all life and the creator of all things. It is because of him that the planets go in their daily courses around the sun and it is because of him that we exist.

You and I are but a whisper, a tiny breath of life for a short time here on earth. Yet, in spite of our smallness and our sinfulness, God loves us more than anything. We are his pride and joy, his children in whom he finds purpose and meaning. We are made in his likeness and his image. Above all, we are his. We belong to him and he remains with us all of our days.

May we praise and honor him throughout this day. As we feel the sun on our faces, let us thank him. As we see people at the store, let us thank him. As we work in the garden, let us thank him. As we see children at play, let us thank him.

Let everything we do and say today prove our love for him.

Feeling empty (Tuesday, December 6)

The Christmas season can give us some of the greatest feelings all year. The sparkling lights, decorated trees and bright carols transform our ordinary world into an extraordinary landscape full of happiness and cheer. All of us have fond memories of our family all gathered together to celebrate life, especially our future life with the savior and king.

If we are not careful, though, this holiday can leave us empty and weak. We try to do so many things that we actually run out of steam. We might even regret Christmas because of the many obligations, responsibilities and errands. By the time everything is all said and done, we might feel like the huge inflatable Santas in front yards everywhere; they are nothing more than a pile of vinyl on the grass when the air pump is not running.

Without God and his energy, we too can feel deflated. We go through the motions of Christmas without much true joy in our hearts. Throughout Advent, let us rely on his power to keep us going and to keep us headed in the right direction. Each thing we do should lead us closer to the manger on Christmas morning.

At this special time, we cannot afford to lose our strength or spirit and wander all over the place. Let us do what is really important in God’s eyes and leave the rest for another period. May we always follow the star of hope and spread the love of the season rather than the weariness of the world.

Changing (Monday, December 5)

The rebellious nature of the human condition is hard to understand. More difficult to comprehend is how to stop it. St. Paul wrestled with this issue as he attempted to resolve the vast difference between his desire and God’s will. “I do not understand what I do,” he wrote. “For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do. . . . For I do not do the good I want to do, but the evil I do not want to do – this I keep on doing” (Romans 7:15, 19).

So it is with us. We keep on doing those things we do not want to do. At times, it seems as though we are powerless to change in spite of how hard we try. The truth is that we cannot change ourselves. Only God can alter our spirit.

We have to let go of everything that holds us captive to our own will. Until we do so, we will remain in bondage to sin and wrongdoing. We will never stop doing what we hate to do unless we replace the evil in our hearts with the complete love of God.

He is able (Sunday, December 4)

Sometimes we use worldly excuses to disguise our lack of faith. Rather than stepping out in faith, we step back in fear. When faced with a new challenge, it is easy to break things down and explain our opposition.

We may be against trying something different, whether in our individual lives or in our church, because we do not see how it will work. We can usually come up with many reasons to support how we feel. What we have to realize, more than anything else, is that God can do the impossible.

The story of feeding the multitudes with only two fish and five loaves is a case in point. The disciples wanted to send the people away. Then, when Jesus told them to provide for everyone, they said it was impossible. They argued that providing for so many people would take at least eight months of a man’s wages. We do not have that kind of money, they reminded Jesus. Plus, there was no place nearby to buy so much food.

Jesus showed them that God the Father was far greater than anything they thought or knew. What is blessed from above will always succeed, even in spite of our doubt and logic. We can rationalize all we want, but the truth is that God is not limited by our simple reason or reasons. He is able to do what we cannot because he is God.

Sacrificial freedom (Saturday, December 3)

The greatest example of sacrifice was shown by Christ. He gave up everything for us, not once but three times. The first sacrifice was leaving a perfect life in heaven. The second sacrifice was taking on the sins of everyone. The third sacrifice was surrendering his human life.

When we remember Christ, we most often recall what he gave us rather than what he gave up for us. We prefer to picture the triumphant and victorious Jesus in his resurrected body as opposed to the beaten and bloody corpse on the cross. But the former would not have been possible without the latter. As the Son of God, Christ had to sacrifice all for the sake of salvation – ours, not his.

We cannot imagine how he suffered. Relinquishing his throne in heaven is beyond our grasp. Accepting the blackness of the world staggers our imagination. Being beaten to death shocks us with the deepest horror. We can make believe how we might feel, though we will never know how it felt to abandon the perfect for the imperfect, the sinless for the sinful.

We have much for which to be grateful. Whenever we are tempted to complain or grumble about our circumstances, let us remember the sacrificial freedom that we have through Christ. He suffered to keep us from worry or regret. He freely gave up his life so we could have life and have it abundantly.

Wait and see (Friday, December 2)

Are you tired right now? Maybe you are worn out or run down, waiting for something better to happen in your life. You might be losing hope about your situation, wondering if it will ever get better, if you will ever find a job, if your problems will ever go away, if your life will ever be normal again.

Yes, you will get better. Yes, you will find a job. Yes, your problems will go away. Yes, your life will be normal again. Just keep reminding yourself, over and over and over, that “God is getting ready to move in my life.” Repeat the phrase when you get up in the morning, when you drive to the store, when you walk out to get the mail, when you sit down to eat each meal. Soon you will begin to anticipate the good that is about to happen.

Remember what the apostle James wrote in his epistle: “Brothers and sisters, as an example of patience in the face of suffering, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord. As you know, we count as blessed those who have persevered. You have heard of Job’s perseverance and have seen what the Lord finally brought about. The Lord is full of compassion and mercy” (James 5:10-11).

God knows what you are going through. He is “full of compassion and mercy” and he will honor your patience. The more you persevere, the greater his blessing. He will certainly turn your suffering into great joy as he did with Job and all of the other prophets who trusted him. Your persistence will pay off. Just wait and see. God never makes promises he can’t keep.

Why fight alone? (Thursday, December 1)

The first act of Jesus after his baptism by John was going into the desert for 40 days. Alone and without food or water, Jesus was attacked. Three times Satan came against him, each time with a greater temptation and challenge. First came bread. Second was being rescued by angels from the pinnacle of a temple. Third were all the kingdoms of the world.

Jesus withstood each assault, not because of his power as the Son of God. Rather, it was through the power of his trust and faith in God. He relied on the protection of the Holy Spirit which he had just received. He used the Word of His Father to dispel Satan: “Man shall not live on bread alone. . . . Do not put the Lord your God to the test. . . . Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.”

We cannot war against evil on our own and expect to win. We are mere flesh and blood. We are no match for the powers of darkness. But we do have the ability to defeat Satan all of the time by using the living Word of God. We only have to speak the Lord’s name or repeat his commands and the devil must flee.

There is really no battle at all when we use the authority we have been given. We first get into trouble the second we try to fight alone. Yet, we will still try, won’t we?