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Your new life (Saturday, May 18)

There are days when I feel I am suffering from burnout. I am weary from my work and many responsibilities. The future seems so far away, as if better days never will come.

But the good news is that our great hope rests in God. He gives us hope over finances, hope over depression, hope over failure and inability. He can even give us hope over physical pain.

It is natural to be down from time to time. We have the ability, though, to lift ourselves out of despair by remembering these words: “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead” (1 Peter 1:3).

The key to our happiness is not in what we do not have but, rather, in what we already possess. We have an active, living hope in Jesus. He has conquered all, including death, and he has given us a new life that does not depend on the circumstances of this world. 

Mercy and peace (Friday, May 17)

It is only in our helplessness that we discover God’s mercy. Only in our weakness do we realize his strength. And only in our grief do we understand his greatness.

The difficulties and tragedies of life reveal to us the divine power of God. As we are forced to stop and ask Him why, we open ourselves to him completely. We let God touch us in a way that only he can. We kneel before him, with our hearts bleeding and our minds empty of reason, for one thing only: his love.

We want to know that He is there in the midst of sorrow and despair – that he has not forgotten us even though we feel lost and confused. The image of Our Lord and Savior in the garden, on the night before He was crucified, is all the understanding we should need to remember that God is always with us.

Jesus was not alone during his many hours of darkness. Nor are we ever left on our own in despair. Our Father is always there to give us what we do not have within ourselves. He can help us to accept tragedy and despair even when we do not comprehend.

Seed faith (Thursday, May 16)

Faith means nothing unless we use it, and faith is never strengthened without trials. Each time we are tested, our reliance on God grows a little more. But we must let God control the situation.

It is easy to say we have faith in him when everything is going well. As long as we have no problems, our trust remains intact. What happens, though, when the bottom falls out – when we come down with a serious sickness, when we lose our job, when we are ignored for a promotion or when others are preferred over us? Where is our faith then? We are at a crossroads. We either reach out to God or we pull back away from him and feel sorry for ourselves.

Jesus said that we could move a mountain, if we have faith the size of a mustard seed. He did not say we could speak to the mountain and it would literally run out of our path. What he meant was for us to have a tiny bit of faith, just enough to believe that God would help us go around the mountain.

If there are any mountains in your life right now, look to God to help you to go around. Keep moving forward on level ground each day until you reach the other side. Don’t waste time and energy trying to dig your way through or to climb over. Have a little faith and you will develop more with each step. 

Pleasing only him (Wednesday, May 15)

God recognizes us. He knows who we are, what we have done and how much he continues to do through us. Often, those around us have little knowledge of the things we do without any recognition or fanfare. They don’t know that we constantly pray for a special person or that we spend time each day reading the Bible or that we are always there to offer encouragement to anyone who needs it.

But we are human. Sometimes we see the world rewarding someone else for a specific deed or action. Perhaps we become jealous and want the same kind of gratitude. We feel we deserve respect, too. After all, we have done just as much, maybe even more, than our brothers and sisters.

We can easily forget that God sees us for who we are. He sees everything we do and he remembers. Even when no one knows how much we have done, God is aware and he is pleased. He takes great pride and delight in us because he knows we have tried to make him happy more than the people who tend to judge us all of the time.

Let us not be tempted to be caught up in human values. May we seek the heavenly recognition that truly makes a difference, both in our lives right now but for all eternity.

Paradise (Tuesday, May 14)

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 time, I can gain renewed strength for this day. Yes, this day will 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! 

Everything in our nothingness (Monday, May 13)

Unless we find our purpose and value in the Lord Jesus Christ, we are deceiving ourselves. For in and of ourselves we are nothing. In God we are everything. Yet, how often we regard ourselves above others. We measure our importance by the work we do or the acts of kindness we perform. These are earthly matters which do not matter to God.

We must consider ourselves as nothing in the world. In doing so, however, we become everything in the kingdom. That is when God can use us most to accomplish his will in this world. The one who plants and waters is nothing, says Paul. Only God, who actually makes things grow, is worthy to be praised.

We have but one purpose, whether we plant or water. We were created to be used by God, and we will be rewarded in proportion to our service to him. We are God’s fellow workers, adds Paul. We are God’s field and we are his building. What he does through us depends on how we look at ourselves. He can do little when we take credit for what he does.

The greatest step we can take in life is to do what we are formed to do, all the while realizing that it is God who accomplishes everything. We are but a piece of the puzzle in his divine plan. When we find our place next to all of the others he has chosen, then we find fulfillment in our “nothingness” here on earth. 

Hearing true wisdom (Sunday, May 12)

I hear God the loudest of all in quiet times. He speaks in a stillness that is greater than any other sound in the world. Inaudible to the human ear, yet the heart hears. It is the silent voice of his power.

His words are always crystal clear. He tells us to trust him for the next step or when we need to be patient. He tells us who needs our help and how to serve our neighbors. God is never hard to understand.

The problem is that we are not very good at listening or at obeying. God may say we should stop what we are doing at the moment and call a certain person. But we think we can phone later when we have more time.

Solomon knew well the value of listening to God. “Whoever listens to me [the wisdom of the Lord] will live in safety and be at ease, without fear of harm" (Proverbs 1:33). May you hear God when he speaks to your heart and do as he says. He knows what is best in all circumstances; we know only what is best for us at the moment. 

Focused on the future (Saturday, May 11)

I am convinced that many people spend far more time looking backward than they do looking forward. I am not talking about a particular event some day in the future. I mean life in general. We usually don’t think about where our lives are going or headed.

Yet, we remember with absolute clarity what we did yesterday or the day before. We even ponder specific events from years ago. There is nothing wrong with trying to figure out where we might have gone wrong. But there is a real problem when we spend all of our hours living in the past.

Our sights must be focused on the future – where God is leading us and the wonderful things that await us. What matters is not where we are right now. Our attention should be on where we are going. Look at what God did for the Israelites. He brought them out of slavery into the Promised Land full of freedom. Though he provided for them each step of the 40-year journey, they constantly dwelled on the good old days back in Egypt, especially when they were tired, hungry or thirsty.

Their backward thinking prevented them from seeing a wondrous future. May we learn from their mistakes and begin looking up, both to God and to his good works ahead. 

Complete us (Friday, May 10)

People everywhere are seeking joy. They want to be happy and cheerful. It seems the entire world is obsessed with finding gladness. A random search at an online bookstore revealed there are 36,990 books for sale on the topic of joy.

Going to Amazon.com will never help us find the kind of blissful lives we desire. There is only one place to go: Jesus. He is the answer and he holds the solution. “I have told you this,” he said, “that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete” (John 15:11).

Notice that Jesus did not say, “Someday your joy will be complete” or “When you get to heaven your joy will be complete.” He meant now, today, “your joy may be complete.” That is, it may be complete but it depends on us. Do we see the hope Jesus offers daily? Are we happy to be Christians following him? Do we work our hardest to please him? Do we feel that nothing is lacking in our lives? Do we know we have everything we need to serve him?

Derived from Middle English, the word complete means to fill up, fulfill. The Latin form is complētus, which sounds like “complete us.” Jesus can complete us; he can fill us up with his joy so we find our true enjoyment and fulfillment in him.

His faithfulness continues (Thursday, May 9)

Reading the many stories in the Bible, both in the Old and New Testaments, we might get the impression that God did more thousands of years ago than he does now. Look at how he helped the Israelites, King David, Noah, Abraham, Paul, Peter and thousands of others. The Lord still is working through his people today and he continues to perform miracles everywhere in this age as well.

We have to look beyond the headlines of our modern culture. First, what about the World War II veteran who is finally learning to read at age 90? Then there is the disabled man who now has a new electric wheelchair after his was stolen one night. Also, three women in Cleveland, Ohio, are free again after being kidnapped and held captive for 10 years. And, a pair of conjoined twins are separated and each one is healing without complication.

Time and time again, in cities and towns all over the world, similar incidents are occurring. Each day there are probably millions of examples of God’s intervention in the lives of his children. We do not notice, though, because we are captivated and shocked by all of the evil. The goodness of God’s love is there, if only we will seek it out.

“For the Lord is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations” (Psalm 100:5). God’s protection and guidance are not only timely, but timeless as well. He is faithful in all times and generations. We just have to take the time to see and notice what he is doing.

Blessed are the meek (Wednesday, May 8)

In the kingdom of God, being meek is a good thing. When we are meek, we are humble and gentle; we know our position as servants of an omnipotent king. We do not think more of ourselves than we ought. Quietly and confidently, we go about God’s work without boasting of our accomplishments, thoughts and ideas. We make little noise and fanfare over how God is using us, for we are meek enough to know that every task is done for his glory.

Not so with the world. The world demands that we exalt ourselves. The more attention we bring to our own worth and achievements, the better. Success is based on what we do right now, and not on what we do to make a difference in the future.

God does not share the world’s perspective. His values and standards are radically different. In fact, the ways of Our Father are in sharp contrast with the actions of human beings. Our nature is to be full of pride – well-pleased with ourselves – when we do something noteworthy of attention. God’s nature is mild and unassuming, even though he is the God of the universe. He does not call attention to his many acts of kindness and forgiveness each day. Instead, he guides us with a silent power that is barely noticeable to those around us.

Jesus shows us what it means to be meek. As the Son of God, he washed the disciples’ feet before the last supper. Even when Peter objected, Jesus explained that “unless I wash you, you have no part with me.” We need to remember Christ’s example whenever we are tempted to be arrogant or self-righteous, swollen with pride, over what we have done. God has no part with us if we cannot humble ourselves both to others and to him.

Whom do you see? (Tuesday, May 7)

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. 

Living today for tomorrow (Monday, May 6)

If I say to myself that today is the last full day of my life then, of course, what I do now is more important than any other 24 hours in my life. Most certainly, I will be kinder, more patient and less angry. I also will have a tendency to apologize when I make a mistake and I will be quicker to think of others before myself. In short, I will be the person God created me to be.

No longer will I care about how much money I possess or be concerned over the possessions I have spent a lifetime collecting. Everything I have will be gone tomorrow; everything, that is, except the part of me that God has nurtured and cared for all these years.

What I do with my life today makes a difference tomorrow. Each morning I need to remind myself that I am alive for this one day, and I need to live as though my life in eternity depended on it. All my thoughts, deeds and actions should be worthy of where I am going, not on where I have been.

Danger ahead (Sunday, May 5)

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.

The chosen (Saturday, May 4)

Jesus calls out. Come follow me, he says, and I will make you fishers of men. One by one, the disciples dropped what they were doing. They left everything behind: family, friends, vocations, money, houses and all the usual pleasures of a routine life. Each follower was selected by Jesus. In fact, each person was created by God to be one of the chosen.

The same is true of us. We have been individually chosen to serve and share God. We were born to be one of God’s special children. He made us just to be his own.

This day he will ask both you and me to do his will – to go past ourselves and to reach out beyond who we think we are. He will tell us to do all sorts of things for him (and in his name) because he knows us and why the Father made us. Either we drop what we are doing for ourselves or we go the other way, back to where our life is comfortable and safe. The choice is ours alone.

You have been chosen and so have I. We have a decision to make right now. Will we forsake what we want for what he wants? Jesus did this for us some 2,000 years ago on the cross. Are we willing to do the same today for him?

He is (Friday, May 3)

Today could be the day when Jesus returns. In an instant, all of the pain and suffering will be gone. So, too, will the regrets, heartaches and sorrows disappear. It will truly be a new day – forever.

When Jesus left the disciples, he promised to return. He said he was going to prepare a place for each one of us. Plus, he was going to send the Holy Spirit to be our constant guide and comforter. Jesus would be with us each moment, even in his absence, through the Spirit.

As we go through this day, let us be hopeful for that day when Jesus comes to take us home. But may we also realize what we have now. We have the power of the Holy Spirit to make possible what is impossible in the world. The Spirit has the ability to save, heal, mend and restore.

While we wait for the second coming, we need to remember first that we have the Holy Spirit to help us accomplish whatever we are called to do right now. 

Ask and follow (Thursday, May 2)

The miracles of Jesus usually seem straight forward. He heals a leper, cures a disease or drives out demons. More often than not, however, we miss the deeper meaning of his everyday actions.

Matthew tells about the time Jesus and his disciples were leaving Jericho. A huge crowd was following them, and two blind men were sitting by the road. When they heard Jesus was coming, they cried out, “Lord, son of David, have mercy on us.” The people tried to silence them, but they shouted again. Jesus asked their need. “We want our sight,” they replied. According to Matthew, “Jesus had compassion on them and touched their eyes. Immediately they received their sight and followed him” (Matthew 20: 29-34).

There is much more to understand than what is right in front of us. As the son of God, Jesus certainly knew the needs of all the people around him. Yet, Jesus did not stop until he heard the blind men shout a second time. It is important to note that the men did not give up; they probably would have yelled a third and a fourth time. And, even though Jesus knew their need, he waited for them to ask.

The important thing for us to remember is Jesus always waits for us to ask for his help. He also wants to know if we are sincere. Then and only then will he have compassion on us. What happens next is critical: we need to keep following him just as these two blind men did. Our physical healing will mean very little if we turn around and walk away. Simply put, our sight will account for nothing if we lose eternal life in the end.

All for one (Wednesday, May 1)

I did a lot of praying the other day as I drove to and from my job. I prayed for the old man riding a bicycle on a narrow two-lane road. I prayed for the city workers picking up trash right next to the highway. I prayed for the construction crew building a new development. I prayed for the woman crossing the busy street. My prayers were for God to keep each person safe from harm.

It does not matter if we know the people for whom we pray. We are all daughters and sons of God. He created each one of us and we are his children. We are one family. He is counting on us to help him take care of each member, not just those we know well or those who are closest to us.

The apostle Paul said to the Colossians that whatever we do, we do for Jesus. “And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”

Though it may feel strange at first to pray for people we see but have never met, we can learn to reach out – in word or deed – to everyone no matter where we find ourselves. The alternative is to look away or not pay any attention to them. We certainly would not ignore a friend, so why would we close our eyes to one of our siblings in our Father’s family?

Do we seek life or living? (Tuesday, April 30)

The whole purpose of living is God. Yet, even we as Christians fail to remember what we are about. It is easy to become so caught up in life that often we forget how to live. We miss the point when we are consumed by a career, a car, a house, entertaining, or being involved an organization. These may allow us to come into contact with much of life, but we will not give ourselves a chance to experience living – at least not on God’s level.

You and I have a chance to understand more than what the world calls life. God shows us a meaning beyond what we see each day; he allows us to discover ourselves and his purpose for our living. His plan is for us to find happiness and joy in simple things. As we help a neighbor, pray for a relative, make a meal for our family, send an e-mail to our spouse, we feel God working through us to bring about his wholeness and love. We take part in a divine activity not only for our life but in the life of someone else.

God made us for one another. We are a family in him. As we serve our sisters and brothers, we serve our Father. He loves each one of us and he wants us to know the kind of living that can make life meaningful. In order to do so, though, we must follow his example. Not what we see going on outside of our family. 

Peace to you (Monday, April 29)

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.

More like him (Sunday, April 28)

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.

What you can do (Saturday, April 27)

Talents and gifts are meant to be exercised. These are no good tucked away and never brought out. God cannot use us unless we use what he has given us.

Almost every morning, I see a man down the street drive away without using the windshield wipers on the front window or clearing the side windows of condensation. How utterly stupid and careless! One of these days, I fear, he is going to hit a child walking to school or a car because he cannot see clearly.

We may wonder what this guy is thinking, but many of us are just like him when it comes to serving the Lord with our skills. We do not use what has been given to us. We refuse to use what we have and then complain we can’t see where God is leading us. In a way, we never turn on the wipers.

As you go through this day, may you make the most of what God has given you. Whether it is the ability for singing, speaking, praying, teaching or helping in some other way, show the world what you can do because God lives in you.

Having the will (Friday, April 26)

Each day, we encounter huge challenges and obstacles. None is more daunting than ourselves. The biggest battle we face most often is the self: our own will. Few things in the world are stronger and more determined.

The will is powerful enough on its own. But it also has two allies – two accomplices that help us get most anything we want. These are stubbornness and passion. Once we make up our mind about something, not much can stand in the way. We pursue our desires with relentless fervor. And we stick with it until we win. Almost nothing can stop us.

Most often we pay a high price for getting our way, though. In the end, we realize that what we received was not worth the cost. We got much more than we bargained for: we lost our composure, our peace, our contentment and our happiness.

If we stay close to Jesus, we have nothing to lose. With him, we can only grow and gain. He can increase our joy, not take it away. The next time we are faced with facing ourselves, we ought to step back and turn our will over to him. He can change our will before it changes us.

The first and final word (Thursday, April 25)

We have to obey God. Whether we are talking about our individual or corporate lives, we must be guided by everything God commands. We cannot pick and choose what we want to follow.

I cannot go to a restaurant after Sunday worship, for instance, and leave a paltry five percent tip for the server. Nor can I be praying to God on my way to work at the same time I am angry at the person who just cut in front of me.

The same applies to businesses and institutions that are founded on the Lord’s principles. The people in charge cannot do as they wish simply because they are in positions of power. They must be led by God; he is the head of everything and we are his body. We exist to serve him and to seek his will—all of it. Every letter and word.

Article 2 in the Shorter Catechism states clearly what we must do each and every day: “The word of God, which is contained in the scriptures of the Old and New Testaments, is the only rule to direct us how we may glorify and enjoy him.” We have no choice in the matter. Either we do things according to his plan and be blessed, or we do it our way and be troubled. To put it another way, he must have the first and final word in everything!

Share his gifts (Wednesday, April 24)

When will we get to the point where we can love others as much as we love ourselves? Think of all the things we do for ourselves. We make sure we have nice houses, clean clothes, good food and large cars. We treat ourselves well and to all sorts of things.

But what about the persons living right next door? Do we ever share what we have with them? Do we invite them over for dinner or a cookout? Do we even stop to talk with them in the driveway for a minute or two? Chances are the last conversation we had was when their dogs in the back yard barked too loud or too long.

“A new command I give you,” Jesus said. “Love one another. By this, everyone will know you are my disciples” (John 13:34-35). Loving one another means thinking of other people in the same way, and with the same meticulous care, as we do ourselves.

Do people recognize you as a disciple of Jesus? Do they see him in you? Or do they see only you, keeping all of God’s gifts to yourself? Remember, we cannot bring him the glory if we do not share his glory with the world.

Weighing your worth (Tuesday, April 23)

No one’s work for the Lord is any lesser or greater than the next person. The only difference is that it is different. Each of us has an individual gift to perform God’s will in a way that only we can do.

As humans, we tend to place more value on big accomplishments. There is a modern evangelist, for example, who claims to have brought 74 million people to the Lord thus far. Is his achievement any greater than the woman who always bakes wonderful cakes for every church event or the Sunday morning greeter who is at the sanctuary door each week month after month?

God does not play the numbers game. You may recall Jesus said the poor widow who gave two mites donated more than all of the others combined. The reason is simple: she gave everything she had while the rest of the people gave just some of what they possessed.

Never think the little things you do for God do not measure up. In his kingdom, the scales are not the same as down here on earth. He puts more value on our personal passion for serving rather than on the numbers we serve. 

God's constant gifts (Monday, April 22)

We have much for which to be thankful. We have more than any other people in the world, past and present. We have nice houses, good cars, all kinds of appliances and plenty of money. We also have more than enough food, water, heat and air conditioning, clothing, and medicine. Whatever our hearts desire, we can buy.

But the one thing that should make us most thankful, along with what Jesus did for us on the cross, is one another – the true sisters and brothers who care for us, pray for us, help us and listen to us. There are wonderful people all around us. It might be someone who is a constant source of encouragement, one who goes out of her way to write an email, or a person we rarely see but who is always interceding for us. Perhaps we are thankful for a neighbor, a doctor, a cashier or server, a teacher, a pastor or a mechanic.

Think of what our lives would be like without these persons in our lives. Our real Thanksgiving Day is every day of the year, not just one particular day in November. The friends God has made for us are with us throughout the weeks and months. They are there when we hurt, when we are happy, when we are disappointed and when we are celebrating. May we always be thankful for their constant presence and think of them as a precious present from the Lord.

The community of believers (Sunday, April 21)

At least once each week, the Lord gives us a chance to gather together as brothers and sisters in Christ. He knows that we need this time of fellowship and worship in order to realize what it means to love and support one another. Too often we think that we are alone as we go through difficult situations in life. We have the impression that no one understands our circumstances. Even more, we do not want to appear weak or vulnerable so we do not share our burdens with each other.

As we see each other on Sunday, we have a wonderful opportunity to draw strength and encouragement from fellow believers. There are weeks when we are strong and we can help someone else. There also are times when we feel lonely, sick or afraid, and we need to let others help us.

Imagine the delight and pleasure the Lord feels when he sees all of us living as a family in him. As our father, he is happiest when all of his children are together. It pleases him to see us loving one another in the same way he loves each one of us. 

Don't lose your peace (Saturday, April 20)

All of us are disturbed by the events going on around us, especially when it comes to the church and Christian institutions. Why would Christian colleges fire dedicated and committed employees? Why do Christian businesses go out of business? Why do well-meaning charities go bankrupt?

The honest answer is only God knows and we have to trust his judgment. Instead of being overwhelmed by what we see or think, we need to believe he will bring divine victory out of earthly failure. Over and over we have to repeat that God is going to turn this obstacle into an opportunity for people to see his glory.

He weeps when any of his children are hurting or confused because he realizes we do not understand. His will takes time to unfold or else he would gladly show us the exact day when everything will be restored. In the meantime, he comforts us as best he can and as much as we allow him.

“Let not your hearts be troubled,” Jesus said (John 14:1). We can be perplexed over what is happening to us and the world, but we cannot let the bewilderment in our minds disturb the peace in our hearts. If we lose the calm he imparts in our hearts then we will be completely lost.

Ears for God (Friday, April 19)

Children often have a difficult time listening to instructions and directions. Adults are not much different. For example, when was the last time the Lord asked you to do something and you did nothing?

God is constantly telling us what to do. He tries to direct and guide our steps. Yet, most of what he says goes right over our heads. We do not have a clue he is speaking because we hear only our own thoughts.

We have to get out of the habit of listening to ourselves all day. “The way of a fool is right in his own eyes,” said Solomon, “but a wise person listens to advice” (Proverbs 12:15). What sense is there in following our own foolish wisdom when we can have the true wisdom of God?

May we not be foolish enough today to think we know what to do in every situation. Chances are we do not even know what to do in even the smallest circumstance. Remember how you felt the last time someone took the parking spot you wanted at the mall.

One special person (Thursday, April 18)

Think of all the great tasks that are done by regular people—individuals like you and me. The truth is, though, there is nothing mundane or ordinary about our work when God is working through us.

There is a person who is mentioned only twice in the New Testament. First, in the preface of his gospel, Luke says he is writing to the “most excellent Theophilus.” The Ryrie Study Bible notes that the name means “dear to God” or “friend of God.” This man is “unknown otherwise, but the form of the address shows that he was a person of high rank.”

Many theories exist about the identity of Theophilus. Was he a Jewish priest, Roman official, lawyer or common citizen? All of these aside, Luke thought enough of him to mention him in the very beginning of his gospel and the Book of Acts.

The whole point is that the world may never know the wonderful things you are doing for the kingdom. Everyone will not see what God is doing through you, but there always will be one special person like Luke who is deeply grateful for your service and commitment to the Lord.

Your new testament (Wednesday, April 17)

The apostle Paul always wanted to go to Spain to spread the good news of salvation. He made three missionary journeys, but as far as we know none of them included this particular nation.

What we do know for certain is that years later Paul’s letters did make it to Spain. Long after his death, his epistles to the Corinthians, the Galatians and the Ephesians were copied and circulated everywhere people traveled. Paul’s words to the people of Spain were just as alive as when he lived.

All of us have stories to tell about our relationship with God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit. We need to make sure these words are passed on to others, especially those who will come after us decades from now. “I will open my mouth with a parable,” said Asaph. “I will utter hidden things, things from of old—things we have heard and known, things our ancestors have told us” (Psalm 78:2-3).

What will our descendants have to say about our relationship with the Lord if we do not pass along what “we have heard and known.” We are the ancestors of tomorrow and our words can be a true new testament that future generations need to believe in God.

Our co-mission (Tuesday, April 16)

The Great Commission (Matthew 28:16-20) is sharing the good news of salvation. As Christians, our co-mission is to tell the world what Jesus did for everyone through his death and resurrection. We know the truth about eternal life. All we have to do is to repeat what we know.

There is nothing complicated, complex, or confusing about the message. Even children can tell how Jesus died on the cross and came back to life three days later. Girls and boys in the church accept and believe the story. As we grow up, however, we have all sorts of questions and doubts. We start to wonder why Jesus had to die in this way, why he had to suffer, and what we should be doing as modern-day disciples. We try to make sense out of his birth, death, and everything in between.

Jesus warned people about their grown-up attitudes and perspectives. He said we need to be careful of our own doubts as adults: "I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 18:3).

We have to change back to what we were long ago: loving and believing children who did not question. We knew in our hearts.

Being big through God (Monday, April 15)

Each day, I wonder what I can do for God. I can encourage someone. I can help someone. I can listen to someone. I can pray with someone. I can tell someone about God. I can simply love someone.

There is much I am able to do during these brief hours in order to serve God. But I know myself. I know I will fail many times. I will miss many opportunities and chances. Try as I might, I will let God down, not once but often. I will forget about him as I rush from one appointment to another. I will not take time to remember what he wants me to do. I will think more about myself than him.

I seldom keep in mind the little things that make a huge difference. Instead, I want to be used only in big ways. I want to walk on water like Peter, travel the world like Paul and lead the people like Moses. I know I want to be bigger than I am. I have to learn that I cannot be any more important than when I am doing God’s will. Nothing else on earth can compare to fulfilling my purpose for God.

What should make my life worthwhile is worth anything that God asks of me. I may never be recognized or remembered by the world, but God will always remember what I did for him – even throughout eternity. I can be big in God’s eyes when I am the smallest in myself.

His spiritual presence (Sunday, April 14)

The greatness of God is everywhere. Most of all, his greatness is in us – what he does for us and through us. Countless times he has comforted us, helped us, protected us and guided us. God has been there through each crisis, not merely watching but actively and lovingly taking care of us.

There have been many times when we did not understand God’s plan, especially when we were called to wait and to be patient. Oftentimes, anxiety made our situation worse both for us and for God. Still, he has been there in the darkness, giving us his strength when we did not feel strong, showing us the way when we were lost and sheltering us when we felt abandoned.

Like a father, God has taken care of us since our birth. He has brought us to this place in our lives, to this day, and he will not leave us now. His hand continues to be upon us despite what we see going on all around us. We must constantly remind ourselves that God is with us each minute.

Through the supernatural power of the Holy Spirit, we are never alone. God truly is everywhere. We can find him, and experience his peace, if we know where to look. We must seek him through his spirit, not through our physical ways.

All that awaits us (Saturday, April 13)

Unlike us as human beings, God does not worry. He is not anxious. Nor is he concerned about time – whether or not things happen according to the events of this world. So, too, God is never swayed or affected by what people do or do not do. At the same time, though, he cares for us and wants to give us his peace.

We can only experience his divine assurance by placing complete faith in him. He alone knows the future. God knows where he is taking us. All things work together for those who love and trust him. There is a great future awaiting us. God has made it and promised it. Despite our many doubts and fears sometimes, God’s plan does not change.

All of the challenges of life are taking us nearer to the day when we shall see his greatness. We will realize his blessings and fullness beyond all we have ever imagined. Then our struggles of this present moment will not matter. They will be gone forever, replaced by what God had waiting for us all along.

Citizens of heaven (Friday, April 12)

No matter where we reside, we must follow the laws and regulations of that particular place. Paul said that “our citizenship is in heaven” (Philippians 3:20). Therefore, we need to live a worldly life that is worthy of eternity.

As residents of heaven, we display love and not hate. We practice patience and are never anxious. We are accepting when circumstances might make us intolerant. And we are open-minded rather than judgmental.

All of these virtues are the hallmarks of a kingdom citizen. We adhere to the statues of our earthly states and nations, but we do much more. We follow in the footsteps of Jesus who walked this journey long before us. He is our divine example of how to conduct ourselves each day.

We need to picture ourselves walking on streets of gold in a place that Jesus has prepared for us. We are able to see him, be with him and sing praises to him. Even though we are walking through the darkness down here, we must be the shining lights that point the way heavenward.

Thirsting for him (Thursday, April 11)

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.

Fixed on God (Wednesday, April 10)

Desires of the mind are quite different than desires of the heart. The mind tends to wander, while the heart is always fixed on God.

This conflict between the head and the heart is as old as the story of Adam and Eve. Choosing between the pure desires of God and the wishes of the human will is a constant struggle. Emotions, feelings and thoughts can lead away from God. Trust, obedience and truth keep us centered on God. We have a natural tendency to stray when we need to stay; it is always easier to pursue what we want than to remain where we are with God.

But the battle is not ours alone. God is there to help when we feel helpless and weak. We can call on his strength to stay where we are and to do the right thing. His power and authority are greater than anything that threatens to take us in the wrong direction. Whether we are tempted by the world or even by our own minds, God can keep us focused on him.

We have to believe with our heart that he will give us all we need. We do not have to go searching on our own for anything else.

Feeling God’s love (Tuesday, April 9)

Remember your reaction the last time you helped someone in need? That very feeling was the divine blessing of God’s love, which touches us like nothing else in the world.

When we extend compassion to others, we suddenly remember the grace that has already been given to us. We recall times, maybe years earlier, when we required the help or assistance of someone as we reach out to those who need us now.

Giving money to the poor reminds us when we were poor. Shopping for a neighbor reminds us when someone had to shop for us. Taking used pants and shirts to the homeless reminds us when we could not afford new clothes.

One of the most memorable experiences of my life was when my wife and I spent the day of our 30th wedding anniversary collecting money for the victims of Hurricane Katrina. All at once, our personal celebration became more meaningful because we focused on other people. We felt God’s love in a unique way as we used our special day giving some hope to people who had absolutely nothing left to live for.

Having a glad heart (Monday, April 8)

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.

Are you ready? (Sunday, April 7)

We need to be set at all times to be a witness – to be able to share our good news at a moment’s notice. We never know when God will open a door or give us a chance to lead someone to salvation. When the time comes, he expects us to be prepared for what he has called us to do.

Too often, we think that being an obedient follower means doing all of the right things: going to church, serving on committees, teaching Sunday School, being kind and patient, helping our friends and neighbors, not getting angry, even tithing regularly. All of these are good, of course. But if we are not able to share why we do them, then we are not doing everything we can. We are falling short of explaining to others how much God really means to us.

Think of Philip’s “chance” encounter with the Ethiopian eunuch. Philip is in the right place at the right time. God has brought both of these men together in the middle of the day on the long, desolate road leading from Jerusalem to Gaza. The eunuch is reading a passage from Isaiah, and Philip asks if he understands the meaning? How can I, says the Ethiopian, unless someone guides me? Philip takes the time not only to explain the scripture, but also to baptize the man.

Like Philip, we must be ready. We never know who we are going to meet on the road today.

Where are you living? (Saturday, April 6)

There are times when we need to push ourselves beyond ourselves. We have to draw on every ounce of faith we have and trust God. Even though the Lord is always leading the way, sometimes it is hard just following in his footsteps.

Remember when you were little and you tried to place your feet exactly where an adult had walked? You almost had to jump from one imprint to the next. It took all of the strength and energy you had just to go 15 or 20 feet.

God is constantly encouraging us to go farther and higher in our walk of faith. We need to learn how to look up at him rather than always down in front of us. Get your eyes and hearts off of the world for a while so you can imagine what is possible with God in you.

He has no limits. He has no boundaries. In the physical sphere of our human capabilities, we can do very little. But in the scope of heaven, everything suddenly becomes feasible. It all depends on what realm we are living in.

Reaching out (Friday, April 5)

Like most of us, you came to the Lord because someone told you about him. The person explained what Jesus had done personally and how he came to offer salvation to every woman, man, girl and boy. There are those around us who need to hear the good news.

When I was 15, I accepted Christ at a Youth for Christ rally on a Saturday evening in downtown Cleveland, Ohio. I did not move when the speaker gave the call to come forward. I remember standing there at my seat for what seemed forever. I was afraid to move and to publically declare Jesus as my Lord and Savior.

Had it not been for the close friend next to me, I would not have had the courage to go up on stage. My friend Don asked me if I was ready. One simple invitation from him was all it took.

Since then my life has not been the same. My journey for the past 45 years has been divinely guided by the one I almost ignored. What a mistake I would have made—an eternal mistake. Don’t let a friend or anyone else go the wrong way. Spread the great news of what Jesus has done in your life. You will be amazed at the difference he can make for others, too. But you have to take the first step for them.
 
The new you (Thursday, April 4)

God has a precise plan for you. It is a separate, individual design based on the skills, talents and abilities he has given you. As your life unfolds, remember that he must work through you in his own way. Sometimes that means he must change you before he can accomplish his will.

We had to make significant changes in our house when we had new carpeting installed in every room. The same occurred when we had all of the rooms painted. All 1,800 square feet of space! We had to move furniture to replace the carpet and we had to take everything off the walls for repainting. There was no other way to accomplish each job.

In a similar way, God has to make changes in us so we can serve him as he planned. He may have to modify our way of thinking or our attitude toward someone. It is not easy on us or God, but there is no other way.

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ,” wrote the apostle Paul, “the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here” (2 Corinthians 5:17). The only way for God to make us new is to let him redo us according to his plan.

Where he leads (Wednesday, April 3)

Contrary to what most people believe at times, the greatest part of following God is the journey. Each day brings something new and different, yet there is constant safety and security 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 protector, our stronghold. In him, we find refuge no matter where we go or what we experience. His infinite and invisible love surrounds us daily. He carries us safely from place to place on the road he has created for us. His rod and staff offer shelter and comfort. Though we 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 where we are restored for his sake, not for that of the world. We are led each step of the way; even goodness and love follow us from behind. Nothing can touch us for we are surrounded by him, safe in his company.

With him as our guide, we should not want for anything else. No matter what we face today, we are safe because of his grace. He is with us each day of our life. 

Our house and his (Tuesday, April 2)

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.

One purpose (Monday, April 1)

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.”

We are risen (Sunday, March 31)

In churches throughout the world today people will greet one another in hundreds of different languages. “He is risen,” one parishioner will say. “He is risen, indeed,” will be the response. Yes, Easter reveals the wonderful truth over and over again. We have eternal salvation because of his resurrection.

There always will be a tinge of sadness in the proclamation. The great miracle over death comes just three days after the greatest tragedy in history. We cannot easily forget the beating Jesus endured and then the suffering he bore as he hung on the cross for six hours.

When it was all said and done, his body was dead and defeated. But not his spirit. "Father, into your hands I commit my spirit," he said just before taking his last breath (Luke 23:46).

His spirit could not be killed. Nor can our spirit be slain—all because of him. Knowing what he did for us, perhaps we should declare on this day: “We are risen.” “We are risen, indeed.” He accepted the pain and sin to give us his victory over death.

Look everywhere for Jesus (Saturday, March 30)

Jesus appeared to the disciples many times after his resurrection. On at least one occasion, they did not recognize him. Nor did they recognize his voice.

Several of them had been fishing all night, but caught nothing. A man suddenly appeared on the shore and told them to drop their net on the other side of the boat. “When they did,” writes John (21:6), “they were unable to haul the net in because of the large number of fish.” It was at that moment that John realized the stranger was Jesus himself.

We might wonder how they did not know Jesus the instant they saw and heard him. Perhaps they were tired. Maybe they were distracted. Most likely, though, they were not even looking for him. They were intent on catching fish.

How many times each day do we fail to see or hear Jesus? It takes a miracle to get our attention; then we finally wake up to his presence. Let us look for Jesus everywhere we go. Not just when or where we need him.

Change your day (Friday, March 29)

What describes how your day began: getting up while it was still dark; complaining children; a barking dog; oversleeping by half an hour; nothing to eat for breakfast; the kids missing the school bus; the car failing to start; not feeling well; all of the above.

It does not take much to set us off in the morning. The slightest disruption can make us angry and edgy. Even listening to the news, weather or traffic on television can send us into despair.

We do not have to stay that way for the rest of the day, though. We have the ability to snap out of it. Most of the time we prefer to remain miserable rather than making an effort to change.

No matter how your day started, it can always end in perfect peace. What you need to do is to seek your happiness outside of the world of everyday troubles. Look up to heaven and see God’s gladness. “Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength" (Nehemiah 8:10). May the sheer power of his goodness and love change your day in a dramatic, wonderful way.

Your heavenly reflection (Thursday, March 28)

How do you see yourself? I saw a picture of a kitten on Facebook. He was looking at his image in a mirror. The reflection was an enormous lion with a huge mane! That’s how this little guy saw himself.

The same should happen when we look up at God. We should see ourselves as mighty children in a glorious kingdom, robed in the majesty of heaven and the glory of God.

The world does not see us for who we are in Christ. People see us only as human beings with all kinds of flaws and frailties. To those around us, we are weak, forgetful and undignified. We may even appear downtrodden and worthless.

“But you are a chosen people,” says Peter the fisherman, who was later known as the rock. “A royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light” (1 Peter 2:9). Through God, we are suddenly transformed into royal priests of the Most High. Look carefully at your reflection in the mirror of heaven. You will see how great you are!

Let him out (Wednesday, March 27)

St. Paul had written many times to the church in Corinth. He was trying to get people to resolve their differences among one another. At one point, he sounds like he is almost at the end of his rope. “Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you,” he exclaimed (2 Corinthians 13:5). Paul seems to be saying, “Stop fighting and arguing with one another. Can’t you understand that Jesus himself is living inside of you?”

One of the most difficult lessons in life is how to let Jesus out. He lives in us, but people have a hard time seeing him in our anger and anxiety. Instead, we push Jesus aside and release ourselves. Our base emotions come pouring out as we tell everyone what we think and feel.

Why do we keep Jesus buried deep inside and show the world our natural, untamed flesh? What a poor testimony to the one we profess to love and serve.

Learn to die to self. Put away your old nature and reveal the true nature of Jesus Christ. Allow him to come out. Let people see that he is, indeed, living in you. The only way they will know is if they see his compassion, his kindness and his gentleness in spite of who you are as a human being.

No more anxiety (Tuesday, March 26)

Our heads never stop thinking. We want to understand everything from the way people treat us to why God allows us to experience pain. Our quest for answers is part of our nature, but we must learn how to turn it off sometimes.

One day I received an email from someone I had not seen or spoken with in well over a decade. The woman referred to a time when we worked together. She wondered why, if I knew, she was treated badly by many persons in the office.

This dear sister in Christ still was struggling with an issue 10 years later. She was trying to make sense out of something that did not make sense. The truth is this woman did her job with great enthusiasm and passion. The students loved her! Not so for several of the teachers.

When I respond, I trust God will give me the correct words to help her rest, though she may not understand. I know the Lord can ease her doubt and uncertainty. What Paul the apostle said is true: “The peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:7). He will keep her from any more anxiety as she slowly turns away from the past and sets her complete confidence in him. 

Decisive or divisive? (Monday, March 25)

Many times we misunderstand our role in the kingdom of God here on earth. Rather than being decisive for Christ, we become divisive to the kingdom. We invite people to accept Jesus as Savior, but then we push them away with all of our rules and regulations—the do’s and don’ts of our faith.

What we frequently forget in the zeal to serve is that Jesus came to set us free, all of us, from the devices of this world. Christian or not, we can easily make more out of religion than God ever intended. Although we may mean well as we explain to others the precise steps they must take to lead a righteous life, our words and actions can betray the real truth.

Jesus came that we might have life and have it to the fullest. To be decisive for the Lord, we need to preach the great commandment of love: first to love God and second to love our neighbor. If we add anything of our own, we run the risk being divisive.

The faith of a child (Sunday, March 24)

I asked my little granddaughter what she wanted to be when she grew up. Without any hesitation whatsoever she said, “A doctor and an artist.” What a marvelous goal! She proclaimed it with such determination, as if had already happened. To her, it was settled; there was no doubt in her mind.

What about you and me? Do we look at the future with the identical kind of resolve and tenacity? When we say we have hope in God, do we really mean it or is there a bit of reluctance in our voice? Maybe we are just hoping everything will work out by chance rather than actually believing it will.

We need to develop our confidence in God, having the faith to know he will take care of us. We must stand tall and firm like a tree that remains strong through any situation. “Blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him. They will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit” (Jeremiah 17:7-8).

Think about your future. You may not know exactly what will happen, but you know who has planned it. My granddaughter might never become a doctor or an artist someday. The whole point is that right now she believes she will. As grown-ups, we need to have the same child-like faith when it comes to trusting in God’s goodness for the days ahead.

Do whatever he asks (Saturday, March 23)

God speaks in ways that transcend human hearing and knowledge. It might be through a feeling, a tugging at the heartstrings or an unexpected thought. However it occurs, God will make himself known to us as long as we are open to his will and voice.

“For the word of God is alive and active,” Paul wrote. “Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart” (Hebrews 4:12).

His desire is unmistakable. We know it the second it comes to us. The problem is we usually want three or four signs as a confirmation. He must wonder why we do not act the first time he prompts us.

Both his voice and presence are “alive and active” all of the time. There is something God wants you to do today. He could do it himself, but he wants you to share his work in this world. Listen carefully and follow him. You already have the ability to do whatever he wants; otherwise, he would not ask. 

Something much better! (Friday, March 22)

Disappointment leads down a path that goes nowhere. It is a road that never ends and never stops. There is neither happiness nor satisfaction along the way.

Perhaps you were not selected for some honor or award. Maybe someone else was chosen over you for a specific position. You might have been turned down to be on a special committee or team. Possibly you experienced the sting of rejection in a number of other ways.

No doubt you already know the journey you are on—this flight of despair—is wrought with loss and regret. You feel as though you are missing out on something, that your life is somehow incomplete, because the richness of what might have been is gone.

God tells us not to be downhearted; he has something greater for us. “Though you have made me see troubles, many and bitter, you will restore my life again; from the depths of the earth you will again bring me up” (Psalm 71:20). God will restore whatever you think you have lost. Look at disappointment as being temporary. In no time at all, God will turn your earthly disappointment into a divine re-appointment to something much better!

Don't second-guess (Thursday, March 21)

How often have you asked yourself this overwhelming question: “Was there something more I could have done?” It may involve a person or situation, but we usually think we could have changed the outcome.

The disciples must have wondered if they could have done something else to stop Jesus from being arrested and crucified. Perhaps they should have taken him out of town or fought against the Roman guards. They might have been able to hide him, too, or take his place. When they saw him on the cross, they probably thought of all kinds of possibilities.

We are no different. When something goes wrong – someone dies or a set of circumstances turns out badly – we wonder what else we could have done. In the end, though, we have to accept the results and realize we cannot control each and every action that occurs. Life is simply too big for us to handle alone.

But God is much larger than the world. “The mountains quake before him and the hills melt away. The earth trembles at his presence, the world and all who live in it” (Nahum 1:5). Although we may question our actions from time to time, we need to understand that things happen according to God’s will. Avoid the temptation to second-guess. After you have done your best, he will take care of the rest.

Grace or disgrace? (Wednesday, March 20)

Believers are great at accepting grace, but not so good at giving it. We expect God to give us his grace freely and unconditionally. Yet, we do not share or extend grace very well even to other Christians.

You and I often behave like the person in the parable of the unforgiving servant. A certain man pleaded with his master to be patient with him because he could not repay a debt of 10,000 talents. “The lord of that servant, being moved with compassion, released him, and forgave the debt” (Matthew 18:27). This same servant then put another person in prison for a debt of 100 denarii. The forgiven individual was unwilling to extend the same grace that was given to him.

When we get into positions of authority or leadership, we suddenly forget all of the grace that God and others have given to us through the years. We become the unforgiving servant who feels justified for not excusing or forgiving people.

Maybe it would help us to revise a common phrase. Rather than saying “they will know we are Christians by our love,” we should say “they will know we are Christians by our grace.” May you have the kindness today to treat people the way you want them to treat you—with grace.

Remember this (Tuesday, March 19)

God knows what you are going through and he will see you through. He is our guide, our protector, our shelter and our fortress – the solid rock of our salvation. When nothing else remains, he stands. When everything else is gone, he is there.

We do not have to encounter great, catastrophic ordeals that make us wonder about God’s presence in our lives. Sometimes all of the little difficulties add up and make us just as anxious, just as hopeless. I am the type of person, for example, who can handle the big things. But I fall apart when three or four tiny obstacles get in my way. Suddenly, the world seems a forbidding and cold place.

On the other hand, there are those who march right through the small problems. They can take care of one trouble after another without the least bit of worry or defeat. We are all different; no two persons react the same way in the same trial. The important element for all of us to remember is that God does not change.

From the beginning, he has been the same. He does not waver like we do as human beings. His truth and his love are constant. He is the same whether we are going through something big or little. “Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff,” was the title of a book published years ago. Good advice. But we should not fret the big things either. Through it all, large or small, God will see us through.

Gold through fire (Monday, March 18)

The problem for most of us is that we want to be stronger in our faith, but none of us wants to be tested or tried. We want to be more trusting without doing anything to increase our belief in God. What we are seeking can happen only through hardship. The more we encounter, and overcome through the Lord, the stronger our faith will become.

An athlete does not become better merely by desire. The process involves hard work and an occasional injury. A scholar does not become wiser without years of study and research. Nor does a person become a writer by wanting to publish a novel one day.

There is always a vast difference between what we want and what we are willing to do to achieve our goal. We know that nothing will happen in our lives unless we push ourselves beyond ourselves. We have to be more committed to what we are doing than how we are feeling. Time after time, the great examples of our faith were tested. Peter, Paul, Stephen, and others experienced adversity; they became strong through suffering. In their personal weakness they learned that they could depend on God.

We can do all things through him who strengthens us. Today we will have many obstacles to overcome; the greatest may well be ourselves and our will. May we remember, in each trial, that God is building us up. He is not beating us down.

Wearing our faith (Saturday, March 16)

Various passages in the New Testament remind us to clothe ourselves with certain qualities, such as compassion, humility, love, patience, and understanding (Colossians 3:12). Do not misread what God (through Paul) is saying. He does not tell us merely to practice these so that we can become better persons. Instead, God instructs us to clothe ourselves in them.

Wearing compassion and being compassionate are quite different. When we wear a piece of clothing, it becomes a part of us much like a shirt or a pair of shoes. The items move when we move; we do not have to think about them. On the other hand, when we perform a certain act—say, being compassionate toward someone—we may do so only for the moment. Depending on our circumstances, we might not be kind and considerate all of the time.

We have to learn how to be compassionate, loving, and humble constantly. Our calling is to wear these virtues like a piece of clothing so that they become a part of our being. They go with us no matter where we go, what we do, or how we feel. When we wrap ourselves in the right way, we are covering ourselves with the eternal garments of heaven.

Our Father (Friday, March 15)

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

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

You are in control of each and every situation. No matter what occurs, you will 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 can endure. Even more, I will overcome any difficulty because of you! 

Not by accident (Thursday, March 14)

To most of the world, circumstances and events occur because of good luck, bad luck or coincidence. For us as Christians, we know that everything happens for a reason. That reason is God’s will.

Nothing happens without God’s knowledge. We may be surprised, shocked, disappointed. But God is never taken unawares. Therefore, we do not have to fear what may or may not happen in the days ahead. All we have to think about is his care of us.

Like David, we can sing of the Lord’s constant love regardless of our condition. “But I am like an olive tree flourishing in the house of God; I trust in God’s unfailing love for ever and ever” (Psalm 52:8). We are similar to an olive tree, strong and healthy, thriving through winter winds, spring rains and summer heat.

No one can stop the fruit we bear because we are “flourishing in the house [and will] of God.” He protects us and also helps us grow through his love. We will blossom no matter where he decides to plant us. His plan is perfect even if he decides to move us and transplant us someplace else.

Using emotions right (Wednesday, March 13)

How often we misuse what God has given us. Occasionally, we use our emotions the wrong way. Instead of always having a loving attitude, we become angry and upset. Instead of being patient, we get anxious. Instead of helping others, we harm them.

It is easy to turn things around, like the woman I saw down the street who was using a push broom to pull dirt toward her rather than pushing it away. This type of broom can be used in either direction, but it works best when used in the manner it was designed. We sometimes use our passion, desire and persistence in opposite ways, too.

God did not imbue us with feelings to be destructive. His will is for us to use our emotions for good. What if Joseph would have been angry at his brothers rather than forgiving them? What if the father of the prodigal son would have been furious and not welcomed the boy as he did?

Every minute, we must safeguard how we act. The only way to use our emotions in serving God is to let him guide us. “And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:7). He is only able to keep us in check when we keep our hearts and minds in Jesus.

A whole, new life (Tuesday, March 12)

Today is not the same. The world does not seem as beautiful or complete as it did last week. This past weekend, the mother of our seven-year-old granddaughter died. Liz was just 29. Much too young to leave us and this world.

We never know what will happen in the future to ourselves or our loved ones. There are no guarantees. We have only God’s promise that he will care for us. He will love us all the days of our lives.

We believe Liz is with our heavenly father and that her troubles are over. She is at rest now in perfect peace. Never again will she have to suffer or struggle through each day.

Still, we mourn our loss as we celebrate her life, short as it was. We will miss her and we have many wonderful memories to sustain us until we see her again. “When everything is ready,” Jesus said to his disciples, “I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am” (John 14:3). The Lord came much too soon for Liz, but now she is truly alive in a whole, new way for all of eternity.

Discover the good (Monday, March 11)

“It’s my way or the highway.” Perhaps you work for someone who lives by this philosophy. I once had a boss who constantly told people what to do, how to do it and when to do it. He even went as far as to say how long certain tasks should take. If something took more time, he berated the person openly in front of everyone.

Years after I left the daily newspaper as a reporter, this man lost his job. When I first heard the news, I was elated. Chuck got what he deserved, I thought. A short time later, I suddenly felt sorry for him. He did not deserve to be fired in spite of his shortcomings or attitude. He had a lot to offer and he would be missed.

Sometimes we have to give people a break. They may mistreat or belittle us, but we do not have the right to hate them. Maybe if we took more time to discover the good in certain individuals, we would pay less attention to our own feelings of anger.

Jesus asks us today, “Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye” (Matthew 7:3). Chuck was not perfect and neither was I. We both had our faults and failings. I have to confess that Chuck taught me how to write—and write well! His constant nagging actually helped me, but I was too sensitive and hurt at the time to know it.

Please pray for me (Sunday, March 10)

We are eager to share our joys with the world. We love to tell everyone if something fantastic happens. On the other hand, we are not so willing to ask people to pray for us when we need help. Our natural instinct is to keep our problems to ourselves.

God did not create us to live behind a veil or to put our heads in the sand when we experience difficulty. He wants us to share the happy moments as well as the sad. “Rejoice with those who rejoice,” wrote the apostle Paul, “and mourn with those who mourn” (Romans 12:15).

Why is it so hard for us to ask for prayer, unless it is absolutely necessary? We should go to our friends whether we are up against a life-changing crisis or simply need courage to deal with a problem at school or work. The other day, I swallowed my pride and asked three people to pray for me. I awoke the next morning feeling wonderful. I was not troubled in the least by what occurred the day before.

All of us are on this journey of life together. Be honest with your friends and yourself. Don’t be afraid to let people know you are vulnerable. You can only witness God’s strength when you admit you are weak.

God's promise (Saturday, March 9)

All of us are beset by disappointment from time to time. The hurt is especially acute when it is something we wanted or something we thought was good. Maybe we were turned down for a job or passed over for an important position. The only way to handle our letdown is to let God turn it around.

When setbacks occur, remember what Joseph said to his brothers after he was reunited with them: “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good” (Genesis 50:20). Looking back on being thrown in a well, sold to slave traders and imprisoned for years, Joseph was able to understand the good that God planned all along. God took the evil and made it good.

Hindsight is always 20-20. After the fact, we know the outcome. The difficulty comes when we are faced with a situation and do not know what will happen. All we realize is what we feel at the moment. In a very real way, however, we do know what the future holds.

We know that God intends everything for his good. Any disappointment we feel at first will disappear the second God takes matters into his hands. It is only a matter of when, not if, God turns everything around. Try to be like Joseph and never forget that God is a god of both goodness and promise.

For better or worse (Friday, March 8)

Change happens in an instant. We can be fine one moment and in pain the next. On the other hand, we can be suffering and all of a sudden we are well. We always turn to God when things go from good to bad, but we seldom look to him when life takes a turn for the better.

When we encounter difficulty, we look to God and wonder why. Why did I lose my job? Why did I get sick? Why wasn’t I chosen? Why did this happen now? We always think there is an explanation God can give us for our predicament. Chances are we would not understand even if he explained what was going on.

Do we ask the same kinds of questions when God blesses us? Why do I have this home when others are homeless? Why have you given me good health while others, especially little children, are sick and dying? Why have I prospered when others are poor? Why have you educated me while others are not. Time and time again, God has given us wonderful gifts and opportunities. More often than not, we have probably taken them for granted.

You and I have much for which to be grateful, despite the everyday tribulations of life. We cannot afford to be distracted by negative thoughts or feelings if we are truly the representation of Jesus Christ on earth. We must live as he did: with perseverance and persistence, giving thanks in all things (good or bad).

Waste of time (Wednesday, March 6)

Sometimes we learn only by learning the hard way. A case in point: last week I was extremely disturbed about an incident that occurred at work. I felt as though my thoughts were being completely overlooked. What I said did not seem to matter to anyone.

All of my anxiety was over a meeting that was being scheduled, whether I could attend or not. As it turns out, I found out this morning that the meeting had to be cancelled anyway. We would have to choose another day and time.

Everything I had put myself through, the frustration and anger, meant nothing now. Literally, I had become upset over absolutely nothing. Worst of all, I had forgotten to trust in the Lord. Instead, I was trusting in what I wanted.

How many times do we become swept away by our emotions and feelings? We make a decision without talking with God, and then get mad when things don’t turn out as we expect. We have to remember that God’s expectations are much different than ours. He wants what is best for us, but we want what is convenient. May we stop learning the hard way and begin to trust God in the first place. If we do, we will have more time to enjoy life because we will not have to be anxious over anything.

First aid (Tuesday, March 5)

Day after day, we hear of earthquakes, floods, and disease. Disaster is all around us. We can turn off the news on television or stop reading a newspaper, even keep from using the Internet, but the reality of life does not stop. The truth of suffering goes on.

We ask God to perform miracles in the world: to take away the pain of those with sickness or in need of food, clothing, housing, and medical attention. But maybe the real miracle we need is going on inside of us. What if God is working on our heart so that he can use us to help other people?

Yes, God can change any situation. He can save, help, or heal any person. Even an entire nation! Sometimes, for whatever reason, he does not. Instead, he wants us to do something.

Whatever we offer will provide some kind of relief. Something is better than nothing. The real tragedy in a catastrophe would be if we stood by and didn’t even try to help.

Using his time wisely (Monday, March 4)

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, run another errand before we head home, and finish one more thing around the house before we sit down for 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 on our own. It is almost as if we have left God behind in the 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. 

United in prayer and love (Sunday, March 3)

Sometimes we think and feel we are alone, that others do not care about us. But as we begin to pray for all those in our wide circle of family and friends, even acquaintances we do not know well, we realize there is no reason for our loneliness. We actually have more people who care for us than we can ever remember in prayer.

Those whom we pray for each day are with us, even though they may be apart from us. Their thoughts and concerns for our safety and happiness are present no matter how much distance divides us. They can be on the other side of the country or the other side of the world; yet, as they pray for us and we pray for them the spirit of God brings us together in unity. We all become one with him and in him.

Nothing can keep us from the love of God, nor can anything keep God’s love from working through us. This divine element transcends all time, place, age, generation, and space. Because of God’s love, others can be with us and we with them no matter what may come between us.

The love of God has the power to go beyond the things of this world because it is not of this world. It does not depend on earthly physics or human nature. Love exists over and above this world. We are held together with one another as we love through God. With his love there is no loneliness, only loveliness.

Humble to him (Saturday, March 2)

Never allow anyone to diminish what you are doing for the Lord. He is the creator of the universe. You must listen to him and do what he says.

Individuals will always tell you what they think you should do. A few here and there will talk behind your back. Some may ignore your achievements. Many will put their own accomplishments well above yours. Most will make you feel as though your work does not matter.

None of that should make any difference as long as you are following God’s will. If he has told you to start a new organization, do it. If he has told you to volunteer your time to teach children how to read, do it. If he has told you to study for the ministry, do it. There are no small jobs in the kingdom of heaven. Do what he says and he will protect you. He will keep you safe because you are following his plan.

When you let him work through you, there is nothing to fear. “For it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose” (Philippians 2:13). He will grant you whatever you need to carry out his “good purpose.” Remember something else, too. God only chooses people who are big enough to humble themselves to fulfill his desire.

Good out of evil (Friday, March 1)

God is not blind. What bothers us about the world and the way people act bothers him, too. He sees everything and he knows everything. No one ever gets away with anything because the Lord is always watching.

Not only does God see the injustices that are done. He also realizes your commitment to him. When a supervisor favors certain individuals over you, when someone ignores you or mistreats you, when people judge you and mock you, God is aware.

In situations where we find ourselves a victim, we need to focus completely on God. Not on the wrong done to us. God will right the wrong for sure. “For the eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him” (2 Chronicles 16:9).

He may not instantly punish those who hurt us. What he will do right away is give us greater might and ability to continue living for him. As you go through this day, let God bring good out of evil by concentrating on him alone.

All him (Thursday, February 28)

Nothing great can be accomplished for the Lord without his help. Nor can anything worthwhile be called into being unless it has been personally anointed by him. Still, we use our feeble strength and foolish wisdom to serve God without letting him lead the way.

We usually put the proverbial cart before the horse. We build a church, design a program or schedule a mission trip all before we ask God what to do and how to do it. “Lord, bless this work that we do in your Son’s name,” we say after our plan has been launched. Then we wait and wait, hoping against hope that he will grant our wish.

Remember what God once said to Zerubbabel. “’Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,’ says the Lord Almighty” (Zechariah 4:6). It is not by our capacity. Not by our ability. It is only by the Holy Spirit who inspires, guides, blesses and completes God’s work.

Before you put everything you have into serving him, make sure you have everything you need from him, beginning with the Holy Spirit.

Your useable life (Wednesday, February 27)

I was startled by a message that popped up on my computer screen the other day. “Your battery is able to charge normally, however it is reaching the end of its useable life.” At first, I thought the battery had died overnight. Then I realized this was an automatic warning. The battery was fine.

What if we suddenly woke up one morning and received a similar message? “Your heart is able to charge normally, however it is reaching the end of its useable life.” We certainly would set our priorities and take care of the most important matters.

The thing is we should not live in constant fear of how much “useable life” we have left. Instead, we ought to go through each day with determination and purpose. We have to do the Lord’s will above all else.

Only God knows how long we will live here on earth. We do know, however, that he will not call us home until he finishes his good and perfect work through us. Until that day comes, “Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith” (Hebrews 12:2). 

Regular upkeep (Tuesday, February 26)

The Christian life is not maintenance-free. It comes only through constant vigilance, prayer and examination to make sure we are living properly.

We need to maintain ourselves much like everything else in life. Cars, roads, appliances, computers and houses require maintenance. So do our hearts and minds. We have to make sure we are being salt and light each day, no matter what the situation or how we are feeling. Our attitude, compassion and love must mimic the one we profess to follow.

When was the last time you took a close look at your lifestyle? Are you maintaining yourself as a Christian? Perhaps your patience needs work. Maybe you have to adjust your tolerance. You might even want to fine-tune your forgiveness.

The apostle Paul said that we must be “blameless and pure” so that we “shine like stars in the universe” (Philippians 2:15). The only way to make sure we are shining for the kingdom as well as possible is through regular upkeep. We have to keep up with the life that Christ set before us.

Control the day (Monday, February 25)

No two days in our lives are alike. Each one, like every individual person, is unique. Some days seem to go well, while others bring one problem after another. The difference is not in anything external. Instead, it all depends on what is going on inside of us: how we think, see, and feel.

Much hinges on our emotions, conscious and subconscious. We can be filled with joy on a rainy day, but experiencing depression when the sun is shining. Sometimes it is hard for us to be content or glad. Occasionally, we have to work on ourselves. We have to fight the thoughts and situations that keep us confined.

God knows our fickle nature. He wants to help us turn our circumstances around, and to discover the secret of being happy. The answer is inside our own hearts, not in outside things which are malleable. The spirit of God is not affected by the world; his nature is unchanging no matter what happens.

A great deal of our happiness has to do with us and on whether we are willing to live his way. Our way is not the answer. God can give us joy even in the worst of times because he cannot be moved. His love, his power, and his control are fixed. We need to center our lives on him instead of our shifting emotions. God sets us free and offers us the opportunity to have control over our day rather than the day controlling us.

Don't judge a book by its cover (Sunday, February 24)

Life is unpredictable. Sometimes good. Sometimes bad. We never know what will happen. It is like the line from the movie Forrest Gump: “Mama always said life is like a box of chocolate. You never know what you're gonna get." His mama was right: we don’t know what we are going to experience or see next.

The other day, I was completely surprised by a man who attends our church. I had thought of Dean as an ordinary guy like the rest of us. But the Lord has given him a remarkable talent. He has the ability to make handmade pens on a lathe. These objects are beautiful works of art, all turned out of imported wood, and worthy of being in a museum.

Just as life is full of surprises, so are people. There is usually a radical contrast between the person we see (or judge) and who that person really is. Jesus said, “Stop judging by mere appearances, and make a right judgment." (John 7:24). The “right judgment” we are supposed to exercise, according to theologian Matthew Henry, is to view people “by their worth, and by the gifts and graces of God's Spirit in them.”

To the rest of the world, Dean may look like just another man. Now, however, I see him with all of the “gifts and graces” of God in him. There is certainly much more to him than meets the eye. The lesson is clear, like another adage: “Don’t judge a book by its cover.”

A nice person, but… (Saturday, February 23)

“Don’t get me wrong, I love so-and-so but she really has a lot of issues. You don’t want to get in her way.” Chances are you have heard people utter sentiments such as these. Many individuals think they are speaking out of love when, in fact, they are speaking out of judgment and condemnation.

What if God took the same approach? What if God said, “You know, I love Bruce, but he really gets angry when others don’t agree with him.” Or he might say something like, “I love Jeannine, but there are times when she becomes anxious over the least little thing.”

Declaring you love someone and, at the same time, complaining about the person is not really love at all. It is more of a verdict, much like a person proclaiming, “She has a big heart but….”

Putting “but” in the middle of the sentence turns everything around and cancels out any love. Try to go through this day without tempering or compromising what you say about your sisters and brothers. What is wrong with simply expressing, “I love her because of her dedication to the church” or “I love him because of his compassion for others.” Love is a two-way street. Always say what you would love to hear people say about you.

A city on a hill (Friday, February 22)

In every human being there is a yearning for God. The desire may be strong or weak, but it is there. Too many people, however, do not realize what this emptiness is all about. They do not know what is missing.

Vainly, they try to remove the desolation by spending money. They buy material possessions to replace a spiritual hollowness. But their efforts are useless. The darkness remains.

We have the answer. We know what others are seeking. As Christ’s disciples in the 21st century, we must share the good news with them. It does no good to keep it to ourselves.

"You are the light of the world,” says Jesus. “A city on a hill cannot be hidden” (Matthew 5:14). We have a habit of hiding our light and keeping quiet unless we are among our own kind. For Jesus’ sake, let us shine for him everywhere we go. The world desperately needs to see us like a city on a hill and realize the true light they need to make themselves whole.

Getting ahead (Thursday, February 21)

Do you ever feel as though the deck is stacked against you? You try to get ahead, but for every step forward you take three steps back; you can never win.

As Christians, though, the deck is actually stacked in our favor. We know where we are headed on this journey through life and we know what awaits us in the future. The rest of the world has to wonder and worry about what lies ahead. They have no peace. We do.

First, God knew us before we were born. Second, we know he is guiding our steps each minute. Third, we know he has a perfect plan and a purpose for us. Fourth, we know where we are going when we leave this planet. Fifth, we know where we will spend eternity.

The months and years in front of us may not be easy. But we do not face them alone. God will be right there, clearing the way and keeping us close at his side. Don’t be too anxious about getting ahead in this life. Getting ahead in God’s kingdom is much more important.

Too much to handle (Wednesday, February 20)

Most of the news these days is not good. The economy seems to be spiraling out of control. There are budget cuts in defense and education. Health care grows more expensive and less effective. Our elected officials in Washington don’t seem to be doing much of anything except fighting.

Add to all of these our personal concerns: having enough money to pay the bills; buying gasoline for our automobiles; keeping our children safe; and trying to keep up with a dizzying daily schedule.

Sometimes I want to give up. I would like to get in the car and drive off into the sunset, away from all of the common concerns and worries. How nice it would be to forget about the miserable state of our country as well as the mess of our own problems.

There is no reason to despair. We can cope with everything that confronts us without escaping to an island in the Pacific. All we have to do is realize God is bigger than our problems. “He views the ends of the earth and sees everything under the heavens” (Job 28:24). We may feel powerless to change anything, but he is powerful enough to change everything.

The company you keep (Tuesday, February 19)

Sometimes you and I put ourselves down, especially when we are feeling down. We conclude that we are nothing – that our lives don’t matter. We aren’t well-known. We don’t have an important job. We can’t preach, pray and sing like others. We aren’t even good-looking or smart. We might even wonder what God sees in us.

What we fail to realize is that God knows exactly why he created us. We have a specific reason and purpose, though we may not think we do. Just being a child of God makes us invaluable, and we are here because he deems we are important. He did not have to ask anyone whether we should be born or not. He chose us long before the world rejected us.

People will not always accept us for who we are, just like the Jews did not tolerate Jesus. "If the world hates you,” Jesus said, “keep in mind that it hated me first” (John 15:18). With Jesus as our savior and friend, there is nothing the world can do. We are protected by his love and spirit.

Don’t let people tell you who you are. They do not know you as God does. He knows what he is doing through you. People only know what they can see. So let them judge you by the company you keep; you have nothing to fear.

Key to the future is in the past (Monday, February 18)

The key to the future is remembering, in part, the past. From time to time, it is good to recall where we have been and what God has done in our lives. We do not need to dwell on each event and circumstance that has occurred, but we do need to see how God’s hand has guided us through many times of tribulation. Recounting what God has already done gives us strength for the journey ahead.

In the book of Acts, there are numerous occasions when the apostles and elders encouraged one another with accounts of God’s miracles and goodness. Over and over again, they told one another about the divine power of the Holy Spirit: Gentiles and Jews everywhere were converted, the sick were healed, demons were cast out, and prisoners (Peter, Paul, and Silas) were set free. These followers of Jesus never forgot the miraculous signs and wonders they had witnessed.

Most contemporary disciples forget the past entirely. Or, if they do reflect on previous events, they focus on the pain or suffering. They ignore the wonder of God’s constant protection and guidance. When faced with new and sudden difficulties in our lives, most of us question how we will endure.

We quickly forget that God has brought us through the past and he will bring us through once again. Yesterday gives us hope for tomorrow. But if we fail to remember what God has already done, we will fail to see what he can do in the future. 

He will sustain you (Sunday, February 17)

It came as quite a shock the other day when my wife and I had to spend more than $1,000 to fix one of our cars. We knew we needed brakes, but we had no idea many other parts had to be replaced as well.

We sat at the kitchen table wondering what to do. We could handle $300 or $400. This estimate was almost triple. There was no choice; the work had to be done. Otherwise, the car would not be safe to drive.

As we have done countless times before, the only conclusion was to trust the Lord and have faith in him to take us through this situation. Somehow he would provide a way for us to meet this unexpected expense and to pay our other bills as well. He has never failed us before and we knew he would not fail us now.

We could have easily gone the other way: giving up and wondering why this was happening now, when we really didn’t have any money to spare. Instead, we are making the conscious decision to trust what David said in Psalm 55:22. “Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fall” (Psalm 55:22). My wife and I are praying and believing, just like David did, that God will not let us fall.

You will know later (Saturday, February 16)

The apostle Peter was perplexed by the simple act of allowing Jesus to wash his feet. “Lord, are you going to wash my feet,” Peter asked. Jesus replied saying, “You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand” (John 13:6-7).

For whatever reason, Peter did not grasp what Jesus was showing him. Peter probably thought this was no task for Jesus. Such menial labor usually was done by the servants of the household.

Are we any different today than Peter? Over and over again, I can hear Jesus telling us, “You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand.” He is right. When we endure pain, loss or disappointment, we do not see the reason at the moment. All we know is the reality of our suffering.

To put it another way, a child cannot appreciate why she must know how to subtract and add before she goes to the market to buy something. She will understand once she pays the cashier. You and I need to believe that, in time, we will see the big picture. There is a purpose for everything Jesus does in your life. “Later you will understand” just as Peter did.

Believing above understanding (Friday, February 15)

Most of us have great difficulty believing in God when we do not understand him. But when it comes to the world, there are plenty of things we don’t understand yet we accept them anyway.

For example, I drive my car everywhere without knowing fully how it runs. I travel on airplanes, but I don’t know why they fly. I use a computer all of the time and haven’t the slightest idea what makes it work.

Why, then, do you and I demand to understand God before we accept his will? We can ill afford to live by a double standard: one for God and one for us. If we do not comprehend many of the simple devices we use daily, how do we think we can understand God?

Maybe we should stop trying to do so much rationalizing and do more believing. Let us trust God without understanding him. Our faith must take us beyond our intellect; if not, we are not going to get very far in this life or the next. While we are at it, we might as well stop driving our cars until we understand completely how they operate.

Community or disunity (Thursday, February 14)

How refreshing it would be to live and work with people who are completely open and honest with each other. We could talk to someone, even offer constructive criticism, with impunity. No one would punish us for being sincere and speaking out of love.

“How good and pleasant it is when brothers [and sisters] live together in unity,” David said (Psalm 133:1). We see the same theme in the Book of Acts when Luke talks about the fellowship of believers who “were of one in heart and mind” (Acts 4:32). Though you and I are Christians, we do not always value or appreciate one another.

I once heard of a woman who was trying to help her boss by telling him several employees were not doing their work; they were taking advantage of their positions by coming in late, taking two hours for lunch and leaving early every day. Instead of thanking her, this “man of God” looked at her and said, “If you don’t like it here, the door is right there.” I also knew of a dean at a religious college who complained publically that the faculty never took advantage of her “open door” policy. Everyone there knew what would happen if they shared their ideas or concerns with her.

Let us pray at all times we will one day dwell together in full harmony. May we become the postmodern community of believers so that Luke’s description will apply to us as well: “Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved” (Acts 2:46-47). Amazing things happen when there is godly love for and among everyone.

Time heals all wounds? (Wednesday, February 13)

We should not be misled into our thinking that a certain number of years will take away the hurt in our past. Time may heal the wound, but what about the mark that still remains? How can we make it go away?

On our own, we can do very little. Even counseling may not erase the pain or regret. As long as we hold ourselves accountable for what happened, we will never be free. Only God can release us from the chains of our personal thoughts and regrets.

He promises to remove any sin, any guilt. Often, the problem is we will not let go; we rehearse over and over again in our minds what we would do differently. But there is no “do-over” as children are fond of saying. We cannot go back and, yet, we cannot move forward like we should.

Did you hurt someone? Were you ashamed of your behavior? Would you be horrified if people really knew the truth about you? Jesus forgave the woman who committed adultery. He also forgave the Roman soldiers who beat and murdered him. Can your indiscretions be any worse? Jesus has already forgiven you for your past. He has even taken away the scars of your sin. He no longer sees them so why do you?

Fighting with God (Tuesday, February 12)

Have you ever argued with God? Maybe it was over something he wanted you to do or somewhere he wanted you to go. It didn’t make sense so you pleaded with God to change his mind. Perhaps the disagreement involved giving money to a certain organization or taking the time to attend a special event at church. Either way, you fought back hoping to get your way.

Habakkuk argued over why God was sending a warring nation to take over the land. Moses argued that he was not a good speaker and, therefore, could not lead the Israelites out of bondage. Job argued that his suffering made no sense. Jonah argued that it was hopeless for him to go to Nineveh. We could fill volumes listing all those who have argued with God for a myriad of reasons.

God understands our need to understand, and he realizes how our minds work. He is willing to listen to us no matter what we have to say, even if we are angry and mad. He is patient like a loving parent. He knows when we are hurting or confused and he tries to comfort us.

He can reassure you that everything will be okay. There is only one thing you need to do: trust him. “The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in him” (Nahum 1:7). You do not have to understand or even agree with God. All you have to do is trust what he is doing. If you do, then he will care for you as the prophet Nahum says. 

Divine sight (Monday, February 11)

The early church lived with expectancy. The people expected to see miraculous signs and wonders each day. Most of all, they looked forward to the moment when Jesus would return and they would see him once again. These dedicated followers “devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Everyone was filled with awe, and many wonders and miraculous signs were done” (Acts 2:42-43).

After all this time, the church seems to have lost sight of Jesus’ return. We hope it will happen soon, but our logical and rational minds tell us otherwise. Because it has not taken place thus far, we reason, it could be another two millennia. Such a worldly perspective actually prevents us from experiencing the Lord’s presence right now.

Are we expecting God to do anything more than to help us through this particular day? The “wonders and miraculous signs” were not just for the first disciples of Jesus. Every day, all around us, there are miracles occurring. Yet, we fail to notice them because we are not looking for them. Our minds are set on what we are doing, not on the things above.

As we go through this day, we will see precisely what we are hoping to see. We may be satisfied with the usual, but God wants us to expect the unusual. Anticipating Jesus’ return allows us to see divine wonders and signs that go unnoticed by the rest of the world.

Servant or leader? (Sunday, February 10)

The term “servant leadership” is extremely popular these days. Leaders everywhere, especially in Christian circles, claim to practice this philosophy. Few really understand the approach and fewer still actually serve those whom they are leading.

Robert Greenleaf first introduced a unique style of guiding others in 1970 with his essay “The Servant as Leader.” Greenleaf believed that servant leaders should serve people by empowering them and, thereby, building a stronger sense of community.

Jesus set the model for servant leadership 2,000 years earlier. He turned the principle of being a leader upside down. Jesus was a servant to everyone, even the lowliest, in spite of being the most powerful of all. “So the last will be first,” he said, “and the first will be last” (Matthew 20:16).

Being a leader does not involve controlling people or calling all the shots in an organization; it means setting individuals free to be the persons God created them to be. You and I need to get to work at being better servants rather than always trying to be leaders. We cannot lead without serving. Our serving is what allows us, and gives us the ability, to lead.

Kingdom tools (Saturday, February 9)

Different occupations demand different tools and equipment. Carpenters need hammers and saws. Mechanics must have screwdrivers and wrenches. Secretaries need computers and printers.

Christians require certain tools as well. We need patience, kindness, understanding and compassion. These are the ways we accomplish our work in the world. We have to remember to take these tools with us wherever we go because we never know when the Lord will ask us to do something.

We cannot help the homeless without compassion. We cannot teach children without patience. We cannot share the good news without kindness, and we cannot love our enemies without understanding.

May you be ready and able today to serve the Lord with the tools he has given to you. He has equipped you to do his will. Use these gifts wisely and glorify him. 

Lord or lording (Friday, February 8)

Some people hoard information like collectors seek gold. Certain individuals in the workplace always seem to know every detail of what will or will not happen in the days ahead. And they guard what they know, almost holding it over everyone else.

Most of us have worked at companies where people talk only behind closed doors. They are secretive and esoteric about all business matters except with their friends. In reality, their actions are a form of control; they think they are in charge by being in the know.

Jesus was just the opposite. He was open and honest with everyone. He did not keep any information about the Father to himself. He always shared what God imparted to him. “Everything that I learned from my Father,” Jesus proclaimed, “I have made known to you” (John 15:15).

What if Jesus kept what he knew to himself? He would have been in control because he knew everything. The problem is he would not have saved or helped anyone. The only thing he would have done is to show his superiority. He would have been lording the good news rather than being Lord. 

Playing by the numbers (Thursday, February 7)

The world today is obsessed with numbers. Figures are everywhere: company sales, college enrollments, attendance records, populations and so on. But numbers don’t count when it comes to Jesus. Only the individual person matters.

Adding up the numbers sometimes has an advantage. Companies need to know how well their products are doing in the marketplace. Universities need to know how many students are taking courses. Churches have to know how many people are coming to weekly worship and Sunday school. The government has to know how many people live in each city and county.

To Jesus, though, statistics were not important. He did not teach or heal depending on the numbers or the size of the crowd. In fact, most of what Jesus did throughout his lifetime was one-on-one. He cured a leper, healed a blind man, taught Zacchaeus about being born again and explained to Peter the full meaning of love.

Sometimes we see numbers and forget about the living person. We put more value on size and we become more concerned with quantity than quality. “I tell you that in the same way,” Jesus said, “there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent” (Luke 15:7). In God’s kingdom, the most meaningful number is one.

In God’s right hand (Wednesday, February 6)

Keep trying and never quit. When the going gets tough, the tough get going. All of us have heard phrases like these from someone at one time or another. My junior high football coach used to say, “Don’t be a pansy.” When it came to my music lessons, my mother always said, “Practice makes perfect.”

Many things I would not have achieved if had I given up, such as running 12 marathons, climbing Pike’s Peak twice, writing several books, receiving a doctorate, being a church elder, publishing a monthly magazine, etc. To be sure, I did not do any of this on my own. The Lord gave me his physical, mental and spiritual strength. Left to my own devices and failings, I definitely would have thrown in the towel many times and on numerous occasions.

The point is not about gloating over our accomplishments; rather, the purpose is in being persistent, especially when it comes to the Lord’s work. Paul experienced persecution everywhere he traveled, yet he completed three extensive mission journeys throughout the Middle East. Moses went back to Pharaoh 11 times before the Israelites were set free. Joseph spent 14 years in prison waiting for God to rescue him.

Whatever you are trying to do today, stick with it and don’t give up. God will give you what you need to glorify him. Take a few minutes to memorize this promise from God himself: “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). God is always near to help you persevere.

He comes to our rescue (Tuesday, February 5)

In the story about Jesus calming the seas, we usually remember Peter the most. He eagerly jumped out of the boat and began walking on the water toward his master. A few steps later, though, he lost his nerve and faith. Suddenly, he started to sink until Jesus grabbed his hand and pulled him to safety.

This account does not tell us what the other disciples were thinking. No doubt they were scared at first, just like Peter, believing they were all going to perish. Their fear probably rose like the seas when Peter got out of the boat. But then they might have been a little jealous when he started to walk over the waves. Perhaps they wished they had been the ones to trust Jesus.

What would be our reaction today to such an event? Would our fear keep us in the boat or would our faith allow us to walk toward Jesus? Every day we have to make such decisions in our lives. What we decide to do says a lot about how much we trust God.

Even if we can only take a few tentative steps on the seas of life that threaten us, at least we have tried to obey. The important thing is that Jesus will never let us go under, no matter what happens. He will always reach down and save us from sinking.

Over and above (Monday, February 4)

All that we have and possess should help to sustain us in life, not be the end all of life itself. There are certain things we need—food, clothing, housing—to help us accomplish the work God has called us to do. Anything else, over and above the essentials, is a gift.

From time to time, we can be misled by what we want as opposed to what we actually need. In many ways, the world offers too much for our own good. We can easily be distracted by our desire to own more than we can ever use in one lifetime. The luxuries and comforts we see everywhere frequently make us think we are missing out on something.

We need to remember that our time here is temporary; this is a journey, not a home. Each day, we should be moving closer to our final destination, where we will spend eternity. If we try to carry too many of our earthly belongings with us, we will never arrive at the point where we finally accomplish God’s goal for us.

What we need to complete his work is radically different than what we want. The first pushes us forward, while the second holds us back. We should never regret what we do not have right now. Instead, we should be thankful there is nothing to prevent us from moving ahead. 

Pinky promise (Sunday, February 3)

Children, like adults, make all kinds of promises. Some they keep; others they forget about. But, when children make a pinky promise, they go to great lengths to make sure they follow through and not break the promise.

A pinky promise is made by linking pinky fingers with another person. Though it sounds silly to us as adults, a pinky promise is a physical symbol of a verbal pledge.

As mature Christians we made much more than a pinky promise with God years ago. Yet, how many times have we broken it and gone back on our word? Maybe we have not done all we said we would do or maybe we have not let the Lord use us as he desires. Either way, we have no excuse.

God will forgive us, for sure. Will we forgive ourselves, though? Perhaps that is all the motivation we need to be more committed when we make a promise with God. If children can keep a pinky promise, we can certainly keep our word when we make a promise with God.

Light over darkness (Saturday, February 2)

Jesus did not go immediately when he heard Lazarus was dying. Scripture tells us that he waited until his dear friend had been in the tomb for four days. Why?

Martha, the sister of Lazarus, blamed Jesus. “If you had been here, my brother would not have died” (John 11:21). We do the same today in all sorts of situations. We ask, Lord why did I get cancer, Lord why was this child killed, Lord why did I lose my job, and Lord why did my husband leave me? Certainly, God could have stopped each incident from occurring in the first place.

The answer to our question now is the same as Jesus gave back then to the disciples: “Lazarus is dead, and for your sake I am glad I was not there, so that you might believe” (John 11:14-15). All of them must have wondered, “You let him die to make us believe in you?”

From the very beginning, Jesus told the disciples that this event was happening “for God’s glory so that God’s Son may be glorified through it” (John 11:4). In our struggles today, we may act like Martha because we cannot see God’s glory right away. But it is there. Out of every loss comes great gain, for God always turns wrong into right. Try to look through the present darkness to see his light shining. It grows brighter day by day “so that you [will] believe.”

Be fully awake (Friday, February 1)

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 flesh 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 will.

Where do you stand? (Thursday, January 31)

If we want to get closer to God, we have to step back from the world. We do not necessarily have to get away from everyone and everything. We just need to look at life from a different perspective – from God’s point of view.

Essentially, we need to live like Jesus. When Jesus called the disciples to follow him, he was taking them to a higher, more divine life than they could experience on their own. He was showing them how to live in the world without being of the world.

As followers of Christ, we have the same ability to live above anger, hatred, harassment and discrimination. Jesus did not bother with any of these and we do not have to either. We can choose not to be upset or troubled by anything.

The next time you are tempted to become anxious or frustrated, remember what you need to do: “Cast all your cares on Jesus because he cares for you” (1 Peter 5:7). Jesus came to take away both our sin and our suffering with everyday life. As long as we stand with him, he will take care of what we cannot.

The real Father (Wednesday, January 30)

Try as he might, Jesus could not make the Jews understand. At one point, he even told them they did not believe in him because they did not believe in God, the Father.

“If God were your Father, you would love me,” Jesus said, “for I have come here from God. I have not come on my own; God sent me. Why is my language not clear to you?” (John 8:42-43).

We, too, are bound to face those who do not accept us. They do not agree with what we do or what we say. The reason is simple: they do not know the Father, though they think they worship and love him.

When the world does not understand us, let us be patient and not judge anyone. Let us show them who we are in Christ and maybe they will come to know the real Father.

The vine and branches (Tuesday, January 29)

I am guilty of not always serving Jesus as I go through each day. What I mean is not doing my part in his work. My purpose is to help him build the kingdom, but sometimes I turn my back on him.

My response to Jesus is critical. I cannot bear fruit if I am not connected to the vine; he is the vine and we are the branches. “If you remain in me and I in you,” Jesus says, “you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing” (John 15:5).

Our entire lives must be grafted to Jesus, the true vine, to be productive and useful. How about Jesus, though? What can he do without us, his branches?

Both the vine and the branches are essential. Just as we are nothing without the vine, the vine needs us to bear fruit. When we fail to bond our lives to Jesus, we are doing much more than deserting him. We are actually preventing the world from seeing the fruit he can produce in his branches.

The storms of life (Monday, January 28)

We cannot escape bad weather. Sooner or later, rain will come. Most of us seek shelter and wait for the storm to go away. Ironically, when a storm comes into our mental and spiritual lives, we do not look for cover. Instead, we look around helplessly and wonder what we can do to make the trouble stop.

In the parable of the wise and foolish builders, Jesus said to build on a rock. “Everyone who hears these words of mine,” he said, “and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand” (Matthew 7:24-27). These words were not meant for what might happen in the future. They are for right now—what you are going through at this moment.

If your house—your very life—is built on Jesus, then the storms of life will not wash you away. You can feel secure. Jesus is your rock where you can find shelter and safety. He is a firm foundation and cannot be moved.

Have the sense to come in out of the rain today. God offers us both sanctuary and protection. Seek cover in his harbor and simply wait for the storm to pass. 

He knows your need (Sunday, January 27)

We always need God, no matter the need. Perhaps it is a little thing, like feeling better, or something much bigger, like needing money to pay all of the bills each month. But what happens when God does not seem to answer?

The psalms are full of laments and cries for help. “O Lord, the God who saves me, day and night I cry out before you” (Psalm 88:1). “My soul yearns, even faints, for the courts of the Lord; my heart and my flesh cry out for the living” (Psalm 84:2). Down through time, people of all nations and races have sought God on endless occasions.

My wife and I have been praying for years that our son would be able to find a better job. One after another, our hopes have been dashed against the rocks when he is turned down by yet another employer. Still, we keep praying and asking God to help him.

One day, we know that God will answer our plea. We have hope in him because he knows the need. He knows our hearts and he will see our son through this part of his journey until a new day finally arrives for him. Then we will all rejoice that we never lost our faith in God because he was always there, helping our son and us wait for the right time.

Dry land in water (Saturday, January 26)

God never abandons his people. When it came time for Moses to leave the Israelites, the Lord put Joshua in charge. He would lead them the rest of the way to the Promised Land.

They still had a long journey ahead of them, but the most pressing concern was right in front of them: the Jordan River. Everyone, including Joshua, remembered when God parted the Red Sea and they probably questioned if he would do it again now.

Just as God had prophesied to Joshua, the waters of the Jordan stopped flowing the minute the priests carrying the Ark of the Covenant stepped in. The people crossed safely and continued on to Jericho.

If you are wondering whether God will help you again as you go through yet another trial, remember this account. The Lord always protects his people, even giving them dry land where there is water. He will also take you all the way to the place he has chosen. You have his promise and word on it.

Taking aim (Friday, January 25)

The epic story of David and Goliath proves what God can do with almost nothing. David was able to fell a giant with a single stone, but it was God who brought about Goliath’s death on that fateful day.

David did not need to overpower the Philistine with an army of men or hundreds of spears and swords. David needed only what God had given him already. As a shepherd boy, David had learned how to defend the sheep from wolves and lions with nothing more than a sling and a stone. God instructed David to use this same method to defeat Goliath.

Perhaps you are facing some sort of giant in your life today. You have dreamed of all sorts of machinations and ways to defeat this Goliath. But God may be telling you to use what you possess already: his patience, his understanding and his wisdom.

Whatever you are getting ready to fight, make sure you listen to God. Do it his way and you will be sure to be victorious. Do it your way and you will be the one who is defeated.

Sacrificial love (Thursday, January 24)

Jesus suffered the pain of dying on a cross. He also felt the agony of humiliation. He was pure and sinless, possessing power over everything seen and unseen. What meekness for the God of the universe to allow himself to be put to death by mortal men.

For all of his glory, Jesus hung on the cross for six hours. All the while, he could have come down. He could have unleashed all the fury of heaven. He could have changed everything right there and then. Instead, the greatest one who ever lived suddenly became the lowest of all.

Our pride as human beings never would have let us be killed if we had the power to live. We would have fought for all we were worth to prove that we were able to conquer those trying to defeat us. Most of us could not have endured the shame or ignominy of our loss.

But Jesus did it through love, the same way a parent loves a daughter or a son and will sacrifice anything for that child’s life. Jesus gave up his glory for us out of an element much stronger than anything in the physical world.

Trust without sight (Wednesday, January 23)

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. 

Present in all ways (Tuesday, January 22)

What if Jesus were with us everywhere we went? He was with us at the store, work, the mall, in the car and in our house. Would we definitely act much different in front of him. The fact is he is with us at all times. The problem is we tend to think “out of sight, out of mind.”

“I am with you always,” Jesus told his disciples (Matthew 28:20). He wanted them to know he was indeed going away, but he still would be with them. He would not be there physically, but spiritually. His spirit would be a constant presence in their lives, no matter where they found themselves.

How many times have we thought that no one would hear what we said, what we did or how we treated someone? Probably more times than we care to remember. The truth be told, Jesus noticed each and every time we sinned.

He is with us always and he may not always be pleased with what he sees.

Hard or soft words? (Monday, January 21)

We have to train ourselves to become patient and understanding; this characteristic does not come easily or naturally. Only after years of practice can we learn to be calm and quiet when the world is raging all around us.

The room was full of administrators and professors, many of whom were chairs of large departments, when one person after another began to verbally attack the college’s provost. Each word spoken was harsher than the last. I felt embarrassed that people with doctorates could use such language.

Through it all, this quiet and confident gentleman sat there. He paid attention to each person and several times nodded his head knowingly. After about 15 minutes, he had a chance to speak. By that time, I was furious over the pomposity of some of my fellow believers. After all, this was a Christian institution.

All this man said was he was sorry people felt the way they did and then reminded everyone it was time to put aside our anger and accusations, and get to work serving the students at the college. It worked. A true proverb in action. “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger” (Proverbs 15:1).

An eternal struggle (Sunday, January 20)

All around us a war is raging. The battle is over our soul. Satan tries to pull us in one direction, but God offers the true way. Even as Christians there are times when we do not understand what is going on. We are much like the apostles who failed to comprehend Jesus’ final message. Because of our confusion and ignorance, we fall victim to evil.

When Jesus announced he was going away and that certain events would occur, he reminded the 12 not to be anxious. “Do not let your hearts be troubled. . . . You know the way to the place where I am going.” Thomas, however, responds that they are unsure where Jesus is going, that they do not know the way. “I am the way and the truth and the life,” Jesus states. “No one comes to the Father except through me.”

There may be times in life when we claim we do not recognize the true way. We also may try to excuse ourselves by claiming we do not know what to do. But God knows better. He can see that we do understand, if only we will take time to listen to what he has already told us.

The $35 prayer (Saturday, January 19)

I had just dropped off a well-known Christian author at the airport. I helped him inside with several bags of luggage and told him to have a good flight. As I rushed back to my car just outside the door, the Holy Spirit prompted me to go back and pray with the man. I hesitated for a moment and then turned around. We prayed for a minute or two and I left.

By the time I returned to my car, there was a ticket on it. I had parked too long in a loading zone. All the way home I kept thinking about the fine. I did not want to pay it. In my mind, I kept blaming the police for not being a little more patient. Just two minutes would have made all the difference in the world.

I never told this writer about the ticket. When I think about the incident now, I realize what truly mattered is we had a chance to share a few minutes together in prayer with God. That was certainly worth much more than $35. In fact, it was really a small price to pay to be able to stand before the Creator of the universe and ask him to watch over this man.

Prove who you are (Friday, January 18)

If we say we are a Christian, what we really mean is we are like Christ. We do not merely tag along behind him and let him do all of the work. We follow him and do what he does.

We treat people with kindness and respect, even if they are yelling or shouting at us. We show compassion for those who are sick, even if we are not feeling well. We are patient with strangers, even if they frustrate us. We forgive our enemies, even if they deserve to be punished. Above all, we love everyone even if they hate us.

What most often keeps us from being like Jesus is not the world, people or difficult circumstances. It is us – our own self. We do not follow his way because we get caught up in being ourselves. In an instant, we can put our emotions first and forget all about being like Christ.

If he truly is the most important thing in our life, we need to live it. We live it by how we act, not just by what we say. Today, prove who you are. God is watching.

Hearing the right voice (Thursday, January 17)

The sound of Jesus’ voice is clear, firm and unmistakable. We know it well, though we do not always listen well.

He speaks to us daily and reminds us to be kind, understanding and forgiving. We turn a deaf ear, though. Instead, we attend to our own human nature telling us to be angry, upset and vengeful.

In the story of the shepherd and the flock, Jesus says the sheep listen carefully for the shepherd’s voice. “He calls them his own sheep by name….His sheep follow him because they know his voice….But they will never follow a stranger; in fact, they will run away from him because they do not recognize a stranger’s voice” (John 10:3-5)

Be careful whom you follow today. There are many voices and sounds out there waiting to catch and capture you. Make sure you listen wisely and follow the right one: the shepherd who knows your name. Run away from any voice you do not recognize because your life could depend on it.

Blind forever (Wednesday, January 16)

Often, the solution is right in front of us but we do not see it. Jesus was trying to make this point when he healed the blind man near the pool of Siloam. Despite the miracle, the Jews refused to believe that Jesus was God.

The blind man told his neighbors what Jesus had done by putting mud on his eyes. Then he had to explain himself to the Pharisees. Twice they investigated the incident, in addition to questioning the man’s parents. Still, they would not accept the authority and power of Jesus.

In their ignorance they became blind to the truth. “I have come into this world,” Jesus said, “so that the blind will see and those who see will become blind” (John 9:39). Our belief in Jesus allows us to see beyond the physical dimensions of life in this world. It also gives us the spiritual vision to know who he is and what he can do.

But those who fail to recognize him as the Son of Man will become blind to the ways of heaven. These people will never see anything other than what that they can touch, feel or understand. Sadly, they will be blind forever.

Only God (Tuesday, January 15)

Over and over Jesus had to explain himself, even to those closest to him. “Don't you understand even yet,” Jesus asked the disciples. “Don't you remember the 5,000 I fed with five loaves, and the baskets of leftovers you picked up” (Matthew 16:9).

It took them a while, but they finally realized Jesus was not talking the fact that they failed to take bread with them on their journey across the lake. Instead, he was referring to the teachings of the Pharisees and Sadducees – that their manmade doctrines and beliefs would have grave consequences over time. Jesus stood in stark contrast by displaying the Father’s righteousness and power.

How often today do we forget the true teaching of God and accept what seems right or proper to us? We need to live according to the standard that Jesus set for us and not that of the world.

Jesus us showed us what God is able to do when we trust him. Why, then, would we ever want to rely on what we can do by ourselves or with other people? No matter how great, there has never been a person alive who could feed 5,000 with five loaves and two fish.

A simple element (Monday, January 14)

Water, plain and basic, is what supports all of life. Plants, animals and humans must have water in order to survive. Without it, life cannot exist.

Water is what brings a seed to life. It also allows a seed to grow into a plant, bush or a tree. Without water, growth cannot continue.

Throughout scripture, water symbolizes new life. Baptism, of course, represents the eternal life we have been given through Christ’s death on the cross.

When we drink of the spiritual water of heaven, we will never thirst again. We receive what we need both in this life and the next. Water is a simple element, yet it is responsible for all of life. The same is true of Christ.

Making the connection (Sunday, January 13)

It is invisible, yet very real: the healing power of Jesus Christ. Luke made a special point to tell us about a woman who had been ill for 12 years and no one could help. Yet, she touched Jesus’ cloak and was cured instantly.

Jesus knew the moment it happened. “Someone touched me; I know that power has gone out from me” (Luke 8:46). When the woman saw he had noticed, she confessed. But Jesus said, “Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace” (Luke 8:48).

Notice that Jesus did not chastise the woman for taking power from him. He merely said it was faith that healed her. He had the power to heal, but she had the ability to complete Jesus’s work because of her faith in him.

We need to picture this passage in our mind the next time we need Jesus’ healing. He has the power to cure us, no matter what our disease, but we have to believe he will. Our faith completes the connection.

In the end (Saturday, January 12)

How many things will you do today? Whether your list is short or long, chances are that not everything really needs to be done.

Someday we will be remembered for what we did rather than what we did not do. People will not say of me, “Well, he was a great guy, but he never climbed Mt. Everest and he never ran the Boston Marathon. He never sailed around the world on the Queen Mary 2 either.” Rather ridiculous examples, I admit, but the point is this: Too often in life we focus on the things we have not done as opposed to what we have.

I should be satisfied and pleased with being a good servant, husband, father and friend. After all, I will be remembered for what I did in the lives of others – my wife, children, relatives, sisters and brothers in Christ – not myself.

The same can be said when it comes to God. He will see the things I did for him and not what I did for me. Nothing else will matter in the end, least of all the little tasks I once thought I needed to do to be happy.

You are what you wear (Friday, January 11)

Paul makes no bones about it. He says that because we are “God’s chosen people,” we need to clothe ourselves with “compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience” (Colossians 3:12).

We must wear all of these at the same time, as difficult as it may be. What is interesting, though, is how often we change what we wear. Sometimes we take off compassion and put on hardheartedness; we remove humility and slip on pride; we discard patience and get into impatience.

What happens when we change even one of the things we wear is that it clashes with the others. Hardheartedness, for example, does not go with kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Pride does not match either; nor does impatience or rudeness.

Just like we get dressed each day, let’s make sure everything goes together and that every item complements another. We have an obligation to clothe ourselves with all of the proper heavenly virtues because we are God’s chosen. A better way to say it is that we are what we wear.

Help the saints (Thursday, January 10)

My five-year-old granddaughter uttered a profound statement recently. “When you need help, you need help,” she said to her mother who was having difficulty with an online video game. We may smile or chuckle at what little Lexi said, but there is a great deal of truth in her words.

Think about the last time you really needed help. You probably did not put out your “Help Wanted” sign or tell anyone about your plight. Maybe the matter involved a trip to the grocery store, a ride to pick up your car at the repair shop or the need to borrow a neighbor’s lawn mower. I confess I am guilty on all three counts.

People, especially our sisters and brothers in the faith, are more than happy to help us. All we have to do is ask. The problem is that we have too much pride and vanity to admit we need help. We want others to think well of us so we hide our need and disguise it as a strength.

My granddaughter is right. “When you need help, you need help.” May you seek the courage today to do two things. First, ask for help. Second, look for ways to assist those around you. As the apostle Paul once wrote, “Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality” (Romans 12:13). Let’s help our fellow saints by taking care of their needs as they take care of ours. 

Prove it (Wednesday, January 9)

We cannot call Jesus our Lord unless he is lord of our lives. Our entire existence must be ruled by what he says and what he commands. We are servants who have already promised to obey him.

One day, Jesus questioned the disciples about the strength and depth of their faith in him. “Why do you call me, ‘Lord, Lord’ and do not do what I say” (Luke 6:46). Jesus then speaks about the wise and foolish builders: the one who builds on the rock and the other on the sand.

Maybe Jesus is asking you and me the same question today. How can we say he is Lord if we do not listen to him? Rather than anchoring our lives on his divine wisdom, we build on earthly sand that offers no foundation during a storm.

We are only fooling ourselves if we call Jesus our Lord and fall apart each time something strikes us. Let us learn to say, with all the confidence in the world, that he is Lord. And then prove it by obeying him without question.

Like Peter (Tuesday, January 8)

In many ways, you and I have a little of Simon Peter’s temperament in us. We are quick to judge, but soon realize we have made a mistake.

Remember when Jesus was preaching by the Lake of Gennesaret? He climbed into Peter’s boat and asked to be pushed a little offshore so everyone could hear him. When he was done, Jesus told Peter to “put out into deep water, and let down the net for a catch” (Luke 5:4).

We can only envision the cynicism in Peter’s response. He was tired, dirty and hungry. “We have worked all night,” he said, “but I will let down the nets because you say so.” To his surprise, the nets became full to overflowing. “Go away from me, Lord; I am a sinful man,” Peter replied.

In our shame and embarrassment, we utter the same words on occasion to our Lord. Still, Jesus responds to us in our disgrace, as he did to Peter, by saying with a gentle voice, “Don’t be afraid; from now on you will catch men.” God’s incredible forgiveness right before our eyes.

Bearing fruit for him (Monday, January 7)

I have this idea of where I should be in my life right now. Somehow, I always fall short of that ideal place I have set in my mind. What I often fail to realize is everything I have accomplished for the Lord, not for myself.

A friend wrote to me and said that he had not done much last year. He resolved to do better in the new year. All of us can probably relate to his feelings of disappointment and inadequacy. When we look at ourselves, we frequently see the person we are not. We think of what we did not do. We did not lose weight this year. We did not get more exercise. We did not change our diet. We did not finish that project we were working on. We could go on and on listing all of the things we left unfinished.

God does not measure our lives in the same way. He values us for what we achieved for him. During this past year, maybe we were involved in missions. Perhaps we gave more of ourselves to his work overseas and in our own community. Maybe we donated more money to our church and various charities. We may have even spent more time in prayer or in reading the Bible. It could be that we were simply more helpful to others.

We need to remember the words of our Savior: “What you have done for the least of them, you have done for me.” He also reminded us of power of the widow’s mite. Jesus said she donated all she possessed, but the rich gave gifts out of their wealth.

The little things we do for the kingdom are great in the eyes of Jesus. In the end, both for this year and for our lives, that is what matters most. There is nothing small about God’s work. Let us take heart in knowing that we made a difference in countless ways during the past 52 weeks. We have allowed the Lord to use us for his purpose. “This is to my Father's glory,” Jesus added, “that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples.”

Three in one (Sunday, January 6)

Watching an old Billy Graham Crusade on television the other night, I began to consider his words carefully. Do I have a personal relationship with Jesus, I wondered. Or have I accepted Jesus as my Savior only? Unless I can say he is my Savior, my Lord and my friend, I am missing everything that he has to offer.

First and foremost, Jesus died on the cross for my sins. His act of love and sacrifice for the whole world makes my salvation possible. Second, Jesus must be Lord of my life; he is master of all I am, all I have and all I do. Third, Jesus needs to be one whom I can count on as a friend; he is a constant companion each moment of the day.

Savior, Lord and Friend. He is all three. Yet, I have to admit there are times when I think of him as one or the other. I forget about his friendship, I lose sight of the salvation he offers or I overlook the fact that he is Lord. I take him for what I want him to be at the moment, not for who he is for eternity.

The only possible way I can share my life with Jesus is to accept him for everything he is, in the same way that he accepts me for all that I am. He does not take only one part of me and ignore the rest. He cares about my whole life and being. I must learn to do the same with him. Once I do, then I can say with assurance that I have a personal relationship with him.

Living elements (Saturday, January 5)

The genuine motivation for seeking Jesus should be to fill our hearts, not our desires. His direction and guidance must always be first and foremost; we should long for his will more than our own. It is easy to forget that Jesus came so we might have a more abundant life, both now and in heaven. He yearns to give us a life that is full and meaningful – one grounded in the spiritual world of eternity and not just in the physical reality of the present moment.

Jesus wants us to look beyond the here and now – to see that there is more going on than what we see or feel. Mark tells the amazing story of Jesus feeding the 5,000. The next day, Mark says, the people searched desperately for Jesus but could not find him. Finally, they traveled across the Sea of Galilee, where they discovered Jesus in Capernaum. “Rabbi, when did you get here,” they asked anxiously. The master knew why the people had come; they were looking for one thing only. Jesus said, “I tell you the truth, you are looking for me, not because you saw miraculous signs but because you ate the loaves and had your fill. Do not work for food that spoils, but for food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you.”

What people seek is not always what they need. Jesus calls us to look not just for bread, but for the bread of life. In the same way, he tells us to seek not just water to quench our thirst, but for the living water that will satisfy our souls. “He who comes to me,” Jesus said, “will never go hungry, and he who believes in me will never be thirsty.” His life is there for us to live; he gives himself freely and openly to all who are willing to believe in him.

No time to waste (Friday, January 4)

What if we were too busy praying to argue with someone? What if we were too busy praying to hate someone? And what if we were too busy praying to judge someone?

In a letter to the sisters and brothers in Thessalonica, Paul said they should, “Pray without ceasing” (1Thessalonians 5:17). He was stressing the importance and necessity of prayer in our life. Prayer keeps us connected to God: it reminds us that he is in control at all times; it reminds us that we are never alone; it reminds us of our salvation; it reminds us that our wrongs are forgiven; and it reminds us where our strength comes from.

The noted theologian and preacher Albert Barnes explained in his commentary on this verse that, “We are not to allow this duty [of prayer] to be interrupted or intermitted by any trifling cause.” We are to keep praying right through the little things that beset us each day: traffic jams, angry people, long lines, phone calls, disagreements and hundreds of other petty annoyances.

We need to pray at all times and in all situations. May we set a goal to become too busy praying that we don’t have time to waste on trivial matters that only make us upset.

Exhort one another (Thursday, January 3)

Working to build the body of Christ on earth does not involve size or numbers. Nor does it have anything to do with huge churches, thousands of members or dozens of programs. These are easy. What really matters is living, working and taking care of one another because we are all sisters and brothers.

Just as God encourages and strengthens us each day, we are to do the same with others. Paul told the Thessalonians to continue to encourage and exhort one another, to build each other up. He realized how important it was to support those in our family of God. When we edify one another, we glorify God. We show the world what Christ-like love is truly all about.

In difficulties or hardship, we do not speak harshly to the ones we love. We do not forget about them either. We do not turn away when they need help or when we are too busy. Most of all, we do not go about our business when we know they are hurting or we believe (through the Holy Spirit) that something is wrong. Instead, we put their needs above our own at all costs, just as Jesus did. We think always of them first and ourselves last.

When we begin to encourage those around us, we will suddenly see and understand more intimately the many ways that God strengthens us each moment. Supporting those who also are children of God brings us closer to one another and closer to our Father.

Hope in the glory of God (Wednesday, January 2)

As we stand in the doorway of a new year, we need to see the hope that awaits us in the days ahead. We can have tremendous hope throughout the coming months because of Jesus. Our faith and acceptance of him makes possible our salvation and our salvation assures us of receiving God’s glory.

St. Paul said that it is Jesus “through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God” (Romans 5:2). Paul tells us that we can be assured of our hope in God since it has come to us from the Son.

The “hope of the glory of God” is a reality that exists just as Christ exists. It is not something to wish for, as we commonly do on earth when we hope for good weather, good travels or a good job.

Instead, the hope we have in God is solid and firm. It is a covenant from God that we can depend on his glory in the days, weeks and months ahead. His glory will be there through joy, sorrow, victory and disappointment. The hope of the glory of God will never change as long as we have faith in Jesus. Like Paul, we can rejoice no matter what happens in 2013.

The divine plan (Tuesday, January 1)

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.

Not to worry (Monday, December 31)

Live carefree in 2-0-1-3. Perhaps the New Year can be a time when we finally, once and for all, live without worry. Whether we do or not depends on what we choose to believe and how hard we are willing to pursue our peace of mind.

We will have to battle with ourselves many times throughout the year. Our first inclination whenever we encounter difficulty is to be anxious. We wonder about our health, our finances, our job. All sorts of things cause us to be troubled and lose sleep.

Scripture tells us to cast our care upon the Lord and he will take sustain us (Psalm 55:22). We need to cast our cares – throw them away from us – much like a fisherman casts out a line. Doing so takes effort and determination. There is nothing passive about it. In similar fashion, we must cast our worries toward God and let him take care of them. God can only take control when we give up control.

May we resolve to make some changes in this New Year. Maybe we can worry less and enjoy life more. With any faith at all we might be able to live completely carefree in 2-0-1-3.

Being victors (Sunday, December 30)

Sometimes our best just isn’t good enough. Watching the World Cup in 2010 reminded me that there are times when we give our all, putting everything we have into something, and still come up short. Like the United States soccer team playing in South Africa, we can lose even though we have done everything we know how to do to win.

No one likes to lose, and it does not matter whether it involves a game or a matter more serious like a promotion or being turned down for a loan. We take our losses personally, even though there may have been nothing else we could have done. We think losing in one area or on one occasion makes us losers in every respect.

We should never give up our value and dignity simply because we did not get what we wanted. What we lost is one thing. Our lives are another. The only thing that matters in life is our life. If we lose our soul then we have lost everything. But if we lose a soccer match, a baseball game or even a job, the defeat will not matter in the long run. Yes, the pain of a loss is intense and immediate. But so is the joy of victory. Who will still be suffering or celebrating in five or ten years?

The whole point is that we never lose with God. We do not have to worry about being overcome by any enemy. He keeps us safe and secure. In him, we remain children of the king in spite of the world’s difficulties; we are always victorious. Nothing can conquer us as long as we trust and believe the conqueror.

Keeping one day holy (Saturday, December 29)

For Jews, today is the Sabbath. For Christians, Sunday is the Sabbath. No matter when it is celebrated, the Lord’s Day is a holy time. It is a day to set aside all but the essential elements of life. We honor the Creator with devoting one day of the week completely to him.

As we do so, we are changed. We are pulled away from the daily activities of the world: away from work, away from errands, away from meetings, away from the newspaper and, maybe, even away from watching television. The day seems to slow down as we calm down. We begin to feel the beauty of being alive.

I was a young boy when there where Blue Laws on Sunday. Nothing could be open except for businesses that provided the most essential services. Even restaurants were closed. There are times when I wish we could return to those days to restore the peacefulness that we so desperately need today.

Each one of us can, if we want, give this one special day back to God. We can take care of everything we need in six days and set aside a holy time – both for God and for ourselves. Now, more than ever, we need to be quiet and listen to him.

Changing (Friday, December 28)

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 (Thursday, December 27)

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.

The unexpected (Wednesday, 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 (Tuesday, 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 (Monday, 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 (Sunday, 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 (Saturday, 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 (Friday, 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.

Peace through pain (Thursday, December 20)

Even during inconsolable times, God offers peace. He is there when we lack understanding, faith and belief. But just being in his presence, crying out to him, can still our hearts and minds.

When Thomas A. Dorsey wrote one of his greatest gospel songs, he was going through the lowest period in his life. He was suffering tremendous tragedy. His wife Nettie had died while giving birth to their child. The next day, the infant son died as well. Dorsey was left alone in grief and despair.

Through the tears, he wrote “Take My Hand, Precious Lord.” The words are simple, but powerful: “Precious Lord, take my hand / Lead me on, let me stand, / I am tired, I am weak, I am worn; / Through the storm, through the night, / Lead me on to the light: / Take my hand, precious Lord, / Lead me home.”

You and I have much to be thankful for this day, no matter what we are going through. God is with us. He is there to take our hand and lead us on. He will not let us fall in spite of our weakness and weariness. His strength is constant and sure when ours is not. He is light even in the darkness of night. All we need to do is look up to him. He will touch us with his love and take us all the way through the storm.

You and John the Baptist (Wednesday, December 19)

Our work for the Lord in the 21st century is not so very different from that of John the Baptist. He was sent to prepare the way for Jesus the first time. We are to make the world ready for the Second Coming.

The birth of Jesus was foretold by the prophets for centuries. So, too, was the coming of John the Baptist. Isaiah said this chosen one would be “a voice calling in the wilderness: ‘Prepare the way for the Lord and make straight paths for him’” (Matthew 3:3).

John lived in the wasteland of Judea, calling all to be baptized and repent. “The kingdom of heaven is near,” he warned. When the Pharisees and Sadducee came to mock him, John called them a “brood of vipers” and admonished them that, “Every tree that does not produce good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire.”

As we draw closer to celebrating the birth of Our Savior, let us remember what John was commanded to do. Now we have the same responsibility. You and I must prepare the way for Jesus’ triumphal return. It is up to us to tell others, in the words of John the Baptist, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.”

Time to rejoice (Tuesday, December 18)

Pure joy is found in God. No place else. Rejoice in the Lord always, Paul wrote, for he learned there was no lasting joy in what did not last.

Be grateful for God’s grace. Be thankful for his forgiveness. Be at peace because of his love. Be glad for his gift of salvation. All of these are eternal. They will never fade away. Nor will they disappear during times of difficulty.

Beyond the trials of life, God is always there – always faithful. There is joy in him even when there is sadness all around. Paul could rejoice in the Lord at all times because he rejected worldly situations and circumstances. To him, life was a spiritual matter.

He had joy through God, not through himself or what he was going through at the moment.

Thy will or my will? (Monday, December 17)

Often we settle for less than what God has planned because we give up; we quickly become impatient and accept what we are able to have right now rather than what will come tomorrow or next week. We find it hard to wait for the promises that God has for us, but easy to accept what we desire.

A case in point is looking forward to a vacation. We may make our plans months, sometimes even years, in advance. Each day we gain more hope because we are getting close to realizing our vision. Waiting for God to work in our lives is quite another story. We expect him to change situations and events overnight. If he does not, we grow discouraged. We lose hope. We think God has forgotten us and so we start to take matters into our own hands. We give up a divine plan for a worldly one.

As human beings, we frequently forsake the perfect for the imperfect, much like Adam and Eve who gave up a future in paradise for what they wanted at the moment – exchanging all of eternity for a simple, small apple.

God can help us from making the same mistake, if we take a moment to stop and turn to him. He will give us his patience and his persistence for what is best. Left to our own devices, we will surely fall and surrender to our own will.

Our prayers (Sunday, December 16)

All the prayer in the world will not bring back those tiny children and teachers who died at Sandy Hook Elementary School two days ago. I confess that I feel like Mary and Martha at the death of their brother Lazarus. Remember what Martha said to Jesus: “If you had been here, Lord, my brother would not have died.”

I keep thinking if Jesus had been at Sandy Hook Elementary School on Friday that the boys and girls and their teachers would not have died.

No, Jesus was not there physically. But he was there spiritually. He was standing with each one of those who died, with his arms wrapped tightly around them. And he was there to welcome these precious souls into heaven where they will suffer no more. Now they will live in peace and love forever in paradise.

Still, we mourn for them – that they had to die at such a young age with their whole lives on earth before them. Let us take at least some solace in knowing that they are now praying for us as we pray for them. We are separated physically though we are one in the spirit of God. They will always remain in our hearts and minds even as we will forever remain in theirs. God will care for all of us together as we are held together in his love.

Where was God? (Saturday, December 15)

Dear Friends,
Please click on this link to see the special devotion for Saturday, December 15.  It is about yesterday's shootings and is published on the Christian Broadcasting Network website:
http://www.cbn.com/spirituallife/Devotions/Swaffield-why-didnt-god-stop-it.aspx.
Blessings,
Bruce

Pleasing him first (Friday, December 14)

We do not want to disappoint people, especially those whom we love. We try our best to please those at home, at work, at church and in our neighborhood. We will do all kinds of things to make others think well of us. Many times, we go far out of our way to help someone, even complete strangers.

But how often do we think about pleasing God? Is he on our mind? Are we thinking about him in everything we do? Probably not. Our first thought should be to make God happy – to please him, no matter what the world might think of us. We should realize by now that we cannot satisfy both God and man. You and I have to make a choice. Chances are we usually side with those around us rather than God because we know he will forgive us while people will not.

That is not the point. We should want to delight him so much that we do not care about the consequences of people rejecting us. Think about all of the saints who put him first, ahead of everything including their own lives.

Jesus came to earth not only to offer us salvation. He also came to serve as an example. As we go through this day, let us follow his way in pleasing the father despite the price. In the long run that is all that really matters.

Today's gift (Thursday, December 13)

Each day is like a gift—a present from God especially for you and me. Every package is different and unique. No two are alike, yet they will bless each one of us with exactly what we need.

What will make this gift most meaningful and extra special, though, is our reaction. How many times during the day will we stop to think about what God has given us? How often will we ponder the miracle or price of it? How much will we look at our gift and be overwhelmed with joy?

We can be happy because today is a completely new day with new opportunities and new blessings. “This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it” (Psalm 118:24). What happened yesterday is gone forever. It is almost as if this is the first day of our lives, that we were born the very minute we opened our eyes this morning.

If we live today as we believe then we should be both cheerful and thankful. God has given us this good gift and he is in control of everything he has planned for us.

Who isn't answering? (Wednesday, December 12)

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.

Changing (Tuesday, December 11)

When we have acted up and acted badly, facing ourselves and those we have hurt is one of the hardest things to do. There is nothing we can say after the fact except “I am sorry.”

But apologizing does not take away the embarrassment, the hurt and the shame. The guilt hangs heavy in our heart. We wish we could erase our words and actions, especially when we should have known better.

Thank goodness for love, both God’s love and the love of others. Knowing that we are loved, in spite of ourselves, eases a bit of the regret. What we really need to do is to stop ourselves before we go beyond the point of no return, the line we cross between living for ourselves and living for the Lord.

We should realize anytime we get angry that we have left our reason far behind. Eventually we will have to get back to where we belong, and going back is never easy. Perhaps that return should be difficult so it will force us to change once and for all.

False fear (Monday, December 10)

Fear is a natural human emotion. Trying to conquer our fear is not so natural. Whether we experience the fear of being alone or of doing something new, we can make the obstacle seem almost overwhelming. Before we realize it, we are paralyzed by worry and anxiety.

The Lord knows there are times in life when fear will come against us. “So do not fear,” God says, “for I am with you” (Isaiah 41:10). Realizing that God is with us should make us feel less afraid. But it is not as simple as merely reading a verse of scripture. We have to convince ourselves God truly is with us. We need to know, without any doubt, that God is larger, more powerful, than any fear we face.

We must shift our focus and change our perspective. Instead of wasting time thinking about some fear – which actually reinforces our feelings – we need to look at God. Contemplate his power, his love and his miracles rather than dwelling on the imaginary situation that is prompting our fear. Once we compare the size, greatness and truth of God to our fear, we will understand how irrational it is to be afraid.

Fear is actually an emotion that tries to manifest itself in reality. But God is our true reality.

Older and wiser (Sunday, December 9)

You and I are not as mature as we might think. If only we could claim these words of St. Paul: “When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became an adult, I put childish ways behind me” (1 Corinthians 13:11).

I wonder how many of us have really put away childish things. Do we always act with justice, wisdom and righteousness? Or maybe there are occasions when we act up. We have what we might call a temper tantrum. Maybe we are prone to be selfish. It could be we even pout and whine. Yes, we are older now, but we still have those child-like tendencies within us.

That is Paul’s point. He says that he has put his childish ways behind him. Before we think that Paul had mastered the ability to control himself completely, let us remember he was human, too. He is writing a letter to his sisters and brothers in the church at Corinth because they are acting up. They are quarrelling with one another and there are various divisions. In essence, Paul is telling them to grow up and stop acting like children.

We don’t know how they reacted to his chastising. Sometimes, whether we admit it or not, we need to be reprimanded. It does not always feel good, but it is necessary. As you go through today, try to put those childish feelings and behaviors behind you. You are, for the most part, grown up now. Time to be older and wiser for your own good.

Tell the world (Saturday, December 8)

To get their message to people, all kinds of business advertise on television, radio, billboards and the Internet. Some also send out brochures and flyers announcing huge sales and discounts—anything to generate more customers.

What do we do in our churches, though? Occasionally, at special times of the year, we might put an ad in a newspaper or have an item inserted in a community calendar. We try to get the word out, but we really fall short of the mark.

All of us have good intentions about spreading the good news of salvation. Thoughts and wishes alone will not bring more people into our building. We have to think of better ways to help people learn about the grace and love of God.

Jesus said, “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 28:19). We cannot wait for the nations to come to us; we have to go to them. We have the greatest thing in the world to share and we need to tell everyone we meet what they are missing. They will never know until they experience it for themselves.

Soon now (Friday, December 7)

We are beginning to feel the excitement build. The time is near. Very soon, we will celebrate the most important event in the history of the world: the moment when the Creator of the universe came to reunite all creation with himself.

Without the birth of Christ, our lives would have little meaning. There would be no reason for hope or joy. We would not be able to endure through our suffering and pain. There would not be any future beyond tomorrow, and there could be no purpose for our journey.

When Jesus came to earth he brought with him eternity. He gave us time without end to spend with him. What happened in the manger on Christmas morning made possible all of heaven for each one of us.

God’s gift to the world was much more than his Son. It was ever-lasting life.

Look for the treasure (Thursday, December 6)

There is so much good in the world, but it is usually overshadowed by evil. News outlets constantly tell about deadly accidents, robberies, murders and shootings. Then there are the political and financial situations that threaten us at every turn. Paying too much attention to all of these negative reports can make life appear almost hopeless at times.

These incidents are just a very minute part of what occurs each day compared to all of the goodness around us. Everywhere people are helping others and working hard, yet we seldom hear about their acts of kindness and service.

The only sure way to see the good in life is to look for it. We must make a point to seek it out daily. Observe the people around you: those at the store, at work, at school, at church. See the person who picks up a piece of paper off the floor in the hallway. See the person who stops on the road to let someone pull out of a driveway. See the person who goes across the street to check up on a neighbor.

Sometimes we need to focus more on enjoying the life the Lord has given us rather than dwelling on the problems. Let us learn to cherish what is most important. “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:21). May we put our hearts in the right place by valuing what is truly right and good.

Abide and bear with us (Wednesday, December 5)

During Advent, we lovingly sing the hymn “O Little Town of Bethlehem.” Seldom do we ponder the total meaning throughout the song, especially the last verse: “We hear the Christmas angels, the great glad tidings tell; O come to us, abide with us, our Lord Emmanuel!” In essence, we are asking the Savior to be with us forever.

The phrase “abide with us” can mean much more than standing or being with us. Abide also can mean to accept, bear with, endure or put up with. What we are pleading is for the Lord to accept us, to bear with us, to endure us, to put up with us. The emphasis is on us. We desperately want Jesus to bear with us and accept us in spite of our sinful nature.

This psalm of praise for his birth puts us squarely where we belong. It places us under him, where we are at his mercy and grace. He is the king and we are the servants. We serve Emmanuel, the “God with us” who accepts us by his blood.

May you and I give thanks each time we sing “O Little Town of Bethlehem” for it reminds us exactly why he came to earth.

A gift for you and me (Tuesday, December 4)

There is no telling how much time, energy and work will be spent this Christmas to make everything bright and cheerful. Stores, houses and businesses will be decorated with colorful lights and festive displays. Each year, though, there are fewer angels, mangers and wise men; instead, Santas and snowmen dominate the seasonal landscape.

It is easy for any one of us, even Christians, to get caught up in celebrating like the rest of the world. But our celebration needs to be different. Our remembrance of the Savior’s birth should be solemn and sacred, far from the revelry of songs, presents and trees.

Unlike those living 2,000 years ago, we understand the full meaning of Christmas. We know why Jesus was born and what he would have to endure for our sake. As we give gifts to one another this year, may we recall what Jesus gave to us: the miraculous present of his divinity so we would be able to spend eternity with him. His own birth made possible our re-birth, the greatest gift of all.

God's joy (Monday, December 3)

Having the kind of joy God wants us to enjoy is different than the happiness that is all around us. Our joy may be found in a successful career, being financially secure, having people look up to us, living in an exclusive community, traveling overseas or receiving recognition for our accomplishments. God’s joy is just the opposite. His joy has little to do with feeling happy or successful.

There can be joy in our hearts even though there is trouble in our lives. When our joy is rooted in God, we find true pleasure and peace in the things that cannot be measured by earthly standards. Knowing that we are loved each day by God brings us joy. Realizing that nothing happens in our lives without God’s knowledge gives us joy. Believing that all things work together for good offers us joy.

Too often we seek personal pleasure rather than divine joy. We find enjoyment in what satisfies us for the moment. We eagerly trade the temporal for the eternal, giving up the heavenly for the human. After all is said and done, and the thrill is gone, we are back where we began.

Being filled with God’s joy has nothing to do with how we feel from day to day. His joy transcends all human emotion. The delight we find in God is in knowing, beyond any single doubt, that nothing anywhere happens to us without God’s awareness. We find joy through his constant presence and protection.

A star in the East (Sunday, December 2)

How many times have we heard the Christmas story? Over and over again, from the time we are little children, we are told how Jesus came to earth as a tiny babe in a manger. He was born in a stable because there was no room for him in the inn. There is always a certain mystery to the events that captures our wonder and imagination. The details of that morning never seem to grow old.

Perhaps the reason is because it is something unexpected—something we could not have predicted or guessed. We never would have anticipated that God might send his only Son to be born quietly, without much fanfare at all, among lowly animals and a few shepherds.

We seldom think about how God chose to give us our salvation, but if we pause long enough we may understand more of his purpose and meaning. We might also begin to realize that his ways are above everything else we think or know. His quiet power transcends anything else we experience throughout our lives.

God is always there, yet he will never force himself upon us. He offers us the opportunity to choose: to accept his precious gift or not. He points the way with a star. Whether we draw near to the manger is up to us.

The divine plan (Saturday, December 1)

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 prophesy 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 (Friday, November 30)

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 (Thursday November 29)

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 (Wednesday, November 28)

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.

The message of the manger (Tuesday, November 27)

In a few weeks, millions of people all over the world will be marking Christmas without any knowledge or recognition of Christ. Persons will exchange gifts, sing songs, watch parades and share meals together, yet the real essence – the true heart and purpose – of the day will be missing.

As Christians, we might see the irony in observing a holiday that has no meaning. Such a false and empty celebration seems almost silly. But how many of us will remember Christmas in much the same way, without a single reference of the holy birth to our loved ones or even reading the gospel story once again for ourselves?

There is no excuse or reason for forgetting what Christmas is all about. We must force ourselves to be more conscious of what really happened 2,000 years ago – in essence, our salvation depends on it. In addition, we should not condemn those who fail to understand the significance of Christmas.

As we take time to thank God for the miracle on that starry night in Bethlehem, let us also pray for people everywhere who need to hear the story for the first time. Rather than to judge those who are oblivious to the message, perhaps we can be the messengers for their understanding and salvation.

The light of the world (Monday, November 26)

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.

Twice seen (Sunday, November 25)

At the birth of Jesus, the shepherds came twice to see the miracle which had happened. The story in Luke tells us that a heavenly host appeared to them and then, “they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.”

We can only imagine their excitement. How amazed they must have been to see and hear angels praising the Lord. Then to witness the tiny child who would one day save the world from sin and death. Almost immediately, they ran off to tell everyone they could find about the good news. They returned later “glorifying and praising” God for this divine act.

The fact that the shepherds came back to the manger is significant. The first time they saw the miracle. The second time they offered their worship and adoration.

As we come to the manger this Christmas, will we return to glorify and praise God after we have spread the wonderful news to others? Regardless of our demanding schedules, let us take time to ponder these things in our hearts, just as Mary did. The longer we think about the birth of Jesus, the more we will understand what his coming means for all of us.

Our birth through him (Saturday, November 24)

Christmas symbolizes the very beginning of who and what we are as Christians. This special time of the year marks the origin and hope of our lives, both here on earth and for all eternity. In the birth of the tiny Christ child we see all the power of universe as well as the unconditional love of a benevolent creator. The same God who brought light out of darkness and form out of chaos also was meek enough to dwell among his creatures.

We think only of a manger because we are unable to grasp much more. Our human perceptions allow us to see only the physical. But what we are able to experience with our eyes and ears should be proof enough that there is a greater, higher state. We can feel it, if only a little. Beyond the dirty and crude stable is a spiritual realm where God dwells in all his magnificence and glory.

Christ came to earth to give a glimpse of that place – to show us the unseen through the seen. If we look at him, we can start to understand what our years here are all about. We find our whole being in God, through him.

Following our star (Friday, November 23)

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.

Thanks-giving (Thursday, November 22)

The day of Thanksgiving in the United States is a chance to remember how much our nation and our lives are blessed. But this special holiday should be about much more than our special favor by God. We should pause to actually give thanks to the Lord for all he continues to do in our lives.

Psalm 107:1 says, “Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good! His faithful love endures forever.” Day after day, year after year, God is by our side. He guides us, he protects us, he comforts us and he even encourages us. Our circumstances do not matter. Nor do our emotions and thoughts; “his faithful love” continues.

As we celebrate this day of thanks-giving and of giving-thanks, may we be grateful for the greatest gift of all: our salvation. Christ came into this world to take our sins upon the cross. Soon we will observe both the day of his birth and then the day of his crucifixion.

This very day of Thanksgiving begins the whole season that spans his entire life on earth. From beginning to end, we can see “his faithful love” over and over again. In turn, may he see our thankful hearts praising him today as well as day after day.

An open heart (Wednesday, November 21)

The faith of children is remarkable. They trust openly, willingly, without hesitation. We as adults, on the other hand, are skeptical and hesitant. We do not always accept and believe. We often look for proof on which to base our hope.

As we grow up, we seem to leave behind our confidence in and dependence on others. We begin to turn to ourselves, to rely on our own abilities and resources. We even build mental walls in order to protect and insulate ourselves from other people and from the difficulties of the world. We think such invisible barriers as distrust and pessimism offer security.

What we fail to see, however, is that the same fences we construct in our minds to keep ourselves safe can actually prevent God from reaching us. He cannot penetrate our feelings of anger, prejudice, distrust and doubt, even when we say we are willing to depend on him.

Our hearts must be open and exposed, much like a child. We need to be willing to trust both God and others, realizing that at times we may be hurt or disappointed. The alternative is to continue to distance ourselves from life itself, and from the very calling that God has placed on us.

Too many wonders (Tuesday, November 20)

How does it happen? A Sunday school lesson, planned four months earlier, dealt with the same subject as the pastor’s sermon during the worship service. Both examined the topic of forgiveness.

This was no planned effort. Nor was it a coincidence. It is the sort of thing that God does all of the time. We do not always make the connection because we forget or too busy to notice.

Time after time, all over the world, God plans events to happen in perfect harmony with his will. He brings two people together from different backgrounds, he saves a teenager from a fatal crash, he puts a college graduate in the right place at the right time to get a job, he unites a church with a new pastor, he stops a mother from committing suicide.

He has been caring for his children for thousands of years, never taking his eye off any one of them—not even for a second. If you want proof, look at some of the things he has done in your life recently. Look at the “coincidences” and know that everything was done on purpose. “Many, O Lord my God, are the wonders you have done. The things you planned for us no one can recount to you; were I to speak and tell of them, they would be too many to declare” (Psalm 40:5).

The light of the world (Monday, November 19)

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.

Your heavenly favor (Sunday, November 18)

There is usually a certain group of individuals who receive most of the attention wherever we go. It could be at work, in an organization, at church or school. Everyone goes out of the way to celebrate their birthday, praise their achievements or their accomplishments, and ask for their advice.

Life does not always treat us fairly. We are quick to feel injustice and inequality when we see it. We also are likely to become jealous when other people garner more notice or consideration than we do. We all want to feel special in some way.

Never forget that you are special. The world may forget you or overlook you, but God never stops loving you. Remember, he chose you from the beginning and he created you for a specific purpose. The place he has for you in this life can be filled only by you.

If you are doing what is right – what God has asked – you need not feel alone, lonely or ignored. You have the marvelous company of a great multitude of heavenly hosts who are cheering for you. Being the apple of God’s eye is worth more than the adulation of millions of people. The attention of others does not even come close to the divine attention of God. The world will always praise its own and so will God. 

Trying to bless ourselves (Saturday, November 17)

People do the dumbest things. A multinational corporation has just announced it is closing for good after being in business for more than 80 years. The company warned union employees that a continued strike demanding more money would spell disaster—for the company and for everyone who worked there. The strike did not end. Now the doors are closing forever.

Back in the 1980s, I worked for Eastern Airlines and the same thing happened. Employees in the union kept wanting more money and better benefits. Finally, the company filed for bankruptcy and everyone was laid off permanently.

This all sounds much like a 21st century parable. People seem to feel no job is better than one that pays less than they think they are worth. The lesson is clear: not to think of ourselves more highly than we ought but, rather, with sober judgment (Romans 12:3).

There is only one who realizes our true value and worth. God knows us better than we know ourselves. Whenever we are tempted to think we deserve more, let us remember St. Paul’s advice to use sober judgment. Let God determine our worth and let him bless us as he chooses.

Follow the directions (Friday, November 16)

Whether you are baking a cake, assembling a bicycle, fixing a car, repairing a faucet or restoring furniture, you need to follow the directions. Each product comes with specific instructions to achieve the most successful results.

What we often forget is that these directions are based on hundreds of tests and trials. Researchers have spent countless days and weeks to come up with the best way to use the product. Ignore the steps and you will end up with less than what you expected.

How about our lives? Do we follow the directions? Do we eat right, exercise, and rest as we should? More important, are we following God’s directions for our life? We need to go where he leads and do what we are told.

Think about the last time, other than Sunday, when you opened God’s book of instructions: the Bible. Scripture is God’s word to us today as he speaks through the past. Remember, he never changes. That is why he instructs us the same as he did Abraham, Isaiah, Elijah and millions of others through the years. But we have one distinct advantage—we see what happens when people ignore his directions.

Ask Jesus (Thursday, November 15)

The narrow two-lane road was blocked because a pick-up truck had gone into a ravine, and a tow-truck was trying to pull it out. There was nothing to do but wait in the long line of traffic. In my rearview mirror, however, I noticed an 18-wheeler trying to turn around.

After repeated attempts, the driver gave up. He was trying to make a 53-foot trailer turn completely around on a road maybe 23 or 24 feet wide. Do the math, including the length of the cab as well, and you realize it can’t be done.

As foolish as this act seemed, I suddenly realized that we do the same thing each day of our lives. We try the impossible and then wonder what went wrong. We try to be two places at the same time. We try to accomplish six hours of work in two. We try to get through our day without having any clear plan or schedule.

Sometimes we just need to stop trying all of the time, and let God help us. We are so busy trying that we aren’t allowing the Lord to do anything. “What do you want me to do for you,” Jesus asked the blind man (Mark 10:51). “Rabbi, I want to see,” he replied. And so Jesus healed him. No matter what you are trying to do today, ask Jesus. He wants to help.

D + anger = ? (Wednesday, November 14)

There is too much anger. Despite where this day takes us, we will probably experience anger in some form or another. We might be the ones who are angry or it could be someone else. But, we are almost guaranteed to see it.

Whether we realize it or not, anger is contagious. We can quickly become upset even when things are going our way. Do you recall the last time a person made an off-handed comment to you? What was your first reaction? Mine usually is, “You can’t talk to me that way.” Then my anger comes out.

On the surface there is nothing wrong with feeling angry. It is a natural human emotion. What we do with that anger makes all the difference, both for us and others who are involved.

No great intellect is needed to understand why scripture tells us: “Refrain from anger and turn from wrath; do not fret—it leads only to evil” (Psalm 37:8). Anger will never resolve a situation; instead, anger makes matters worse. If you think about it, the letters in anger actually spell: “A No Good Emotional Reaction.” May you remember this sentence the next time you feel your anger rising. Plus, put a D in front of anger and look at what it becomes: Danger.

Are you a part-time servant? (Tuesday, November 13)

It is peculiar to see children riding down the street on bicycles and talking on cell phones. What can be so important they have to talk with someone while they are playing? Adults are no different. They talk and text while they are driving; many also text while walking.

Trying to do too many things all at once can land us in serious trouble. When we pray, are we really thinking about God or on what we are going to do later in the day? Perhaps we are in the middle of a worship service and we are planning what to have for dinner. Maybe we are at work, but we are working on our own business on the Internet.

“Let your eyes look straight ahead; fix your gaze directly before you,” says Proverbs 4:25-26. “Give careful thought to the paths for your feet and be steadfast in all your ways.” To be steadfast means to be set, mentally and physically, on where you are going.

The world tries to trip us up with one distraction after another. Multitasking is not all it’s cracked up to be. How can we devote ourselves to something when we are giving it only half or one-quarter of our time, particularly when it comes to serving God or loving others. Doing God's work is a full-time job and it requires our full attention. A part-time servant is only there part of the time.

No time to waste (Monday, November 12)

There I sat as the minutes ticked by slowly. There is nothing more frustrating, for me at least, than waiting for the doctor. I had to talk myself out of being angry and upset. How rude, I thought, for wasting my time.

I wondered if my impatience was because I didn’t want to be kept waiting or because I had nothing to do? I hate to admit it, but the latter was the case. I was bored and did not want to do this anymore.

Did I stop to think there might have been an emergency earlier in the day? No. Did I wonder if maybe the doctor wasn’t feeling well? No. Did I consider that maybe the staff was one or two persons short? No.

Has that ever happened to you? Have you ever thought only of yourself? The next time you have to wait, remember the reason has nothing to do with you. No one is purposely trying to inconvenience you. Remember, too, this verse from Psalm 31:15: “My times are in your hands; deliver me from the hands of my foes and those who pursue me and persecute me” (Psalm 31:15). We also might ask God to save us from our selfish thinking as well.

Out of season (Sunday, November 11)

Our Christmas cactus is blooming and Christmas is seven weeks away! At this rate, the flowers will be gone by the time we get to the holiday.

Many things seem to blossom at the wrong time, at least as far as we are concerned. From a Christmas cactus to an Easter lily to an African violet, we are always surprised when these plants bloom out of season.

Such unexpected occurrences should remind us that we cannot control nature. Plants do not bloom when we expect them; they bloom according to the natural laws of the universe.

We need to apply the same lesson to our lives. Our days do not go by our plans; instead, they go according to God’s plan. He is in control. He knows what is best and when it should happen. We need to be more open and receptive to God’s path so we do not miss the surprises he offers us out of season.

What is your lion’s den? (Saturday, November 10)

The world does not always turn the right way. There are times when people are rewarded for doing something wrong. On the other hand, there are probably plenty of occasions when persons are punished or chastised for doing what is right.

Daniel was thrown in the lion’s den because he continued to worship God. Three times a day, Daniel paused to pray to the Lord, in spite of an official decree that no one was to pray to any man or god for 30 days. Daniel knew he was doing the right thing in God’s eyes. No matter. King Darius sentenced him to death in the lion’s den.

As followers of Christ Jesus, we will often be thrown in the lion’s den of tribulation for doing what God commands. Time after time in our lives, we will follow his way and be punished by the world. Our penalty, however, is not final.

In the end, the Lord will be the final judge. Others will be sentenced by God himself. It will be similar to what happened to those who cajoled the king to make the degree against prayer just so they could trap Daniel. Right after Daniel walked out of lion’s den, King Darius ordered all of the other priests to be thrown in.

An open prayer (Friday, November 9)

Dear Lord, you have blessed us with so much in our lives: two children and four grandchildren, friends and relatives, a house, two cars, clothes, food and money. Yet, we come to you day after day asking for more. We want you to help our son find a job, to heal our daughter of the flu, to grant peace to a student, to change a relative’s attitude, to take care of several persons with Alzheimer’s. Our list of needs and wants goes on and on.

We ask you for all these things because you are good and we see our petitions as creating good out of bad. We know you have a great and perfect plan for everyone. We want you to heal and care for people because it seems good in our eyes. Forgive us, though, if we do not understand. Forgive us if we are praying for the wrong solution. Know that in our hearts we want what is truly best for each person and for every situation.

Grant us your constant mercy in all we ask. Forgive our weakness and our complaining. Most of all, give us strength and courage to trust everything you do. We need you to build our faith so it is greater than our desires.

Choosing his way (Thursday, November 8)

In a radio sermon, the Rev. Chuck Swindoll once spoke on the subject of whether we are guided by God or those around us. “There is nothing as wonderful as freedom from intimidation,” he said. His whole point was not letting people control us.

Perhaps you know certain persons who like to manipulate others and tell them what to do. All of us, for example, have worked for individuals who told us what was best for us and what to think. It’s their way or the highway; there is no room for compromise or discussion.

This juncture is where we need to make a decision, says Swindoll. We have a choice: either we do as we are told or we do as God has planned. We cannot listen to both man and God. Will we allow someone else to intimidate us or will we set ourselves free by following God’s desire?

Most of the time, we know which is the right path to follow. The problem is we allow ourselves to be controlled by people. At such times, we need to reconsider our commitment to God. Better yet, we need to remember his commitment to us: “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you” (Hebrews 13:5). No matter what others may do to us, he will never forsake us for choosing his way.

Jesus for president? (Wednesday, November 7)

The 2012 presidential election is over and life will return to normal for most of us. As the country begins to reflect on what went wrong or what went right during the campaigns, one fact is true: 2,186,986 persons wrote in the name of Jesus for president.

A popular evangelist in Florida convinced his followers to cast their ballots for the King of Kings. He labeled one candidate as satanic and the other as a cult member.

Sadly, more than two million Christians chose to follow this man’s advice. Some 2,000 years ago, Jesus spoke about the radical difference between this world and the kingdom of heaven. In answering a question about whether it was right for those who believed in God to pay taxes to Caesar, his reply was simple. “Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s and to God the things that are God’s” (Luke 20:25).

Voting for Jesus for president might be a nice gesture, but isn’t it a lot like what happened when Jesus rode into Jerusalem for the last time? Over and over again, everyone shouted “Hosanna!” The word means “Save Now,” and they wanted him to be Jesus of the moment rather than Jesus of eternity.

Listening better (Tuesday, November 6)

They say “silence is golden.” So why don’t we spend more of our time being quiet and still? We often run away from silence and, instead, chase after noise of all varieties: the radio, television, our cell phone and computer.

Perhaps we want to fill the empty minutes with some sort of clatter. Maybe the absence of sound makes us feel too much alone. We have a hard time dealing with nothingness; it makes us uncomfortable or uneasy.

We have the wrong idea about the sort of silence God intends when he says, “Be still, and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10). He does not mean for us to be completely passive—to sit alone in a dark room and do nothing. His definition of being still is an active yearning and seeking to hear him, to recognize his voice, far above the distractions and disturbances of everyday life.

How well do you know the Lord’s voice? Is it familiar enough that you would hear it in spite of all the noise around you? If you are not sure, you are probably too caught up in listening to everything else. Take a moment right now to be quiet and turn all of your thoughts toward him. You will be surprised by what he says.

What we produce (Monday, November 5)

Bearing fruit for the kingdom is not simply being busy for God. Nor does it mean bringing soul after soul into the kingdom. We must bear the marks of a good and faithful servant more than anything else.

Kindness. Gentleness. Helpfulness. Graciousness. All of these determine the fruit we produce. Do those who meet us and know us want to be imitators of us just as we are imitators of Christ? Or, do our words and actions merely look good from the outside when, in fact, our hearts are hardened and stale.

You and I can only bear the right kind of fruit if we are connected to the true tree. I am the vine, Jesus said, and you are the branches. To be productive, God’s love and compassion must be living and growing in us, so much so that he is one who produces the fruit that we bear.

Revealing the glory (Sunday, November 4)

The first persons to hear about the birth of Jesus were not kings. They were not the wealthy or powerful. Nor were they religious leaders or rich merchants. Instead, they were simple shepherds, who were out in the fields, protecting and caring for their flocks. All was ordinary and routine that night. They could not have imagined what was about to happen.

The fact that God revealed the greatest miracle ever known to these humble men makes the event even more meaningful. God could have chosen anyone, yet he proclaimed the Savior’s birth to common shepherds. They were the first to hear the good news. Their eyes saw what their minds could not imagine.

In much the same way, God appears to us. He uses people like you and me to tell others about the authority and power of Jesus. He declares his word to us so we, in turn, can tell the miraculous story to all we meet. He allows us to share in his joy and glory.

Declaring the Savior’s birth is the most important part of Christmas. We can only celebrate when we reveal what has been revealed to us.

Blessings count (Saturday, November 3)

Think of all the little things you were able to do this morning: wake up in a comfortable house, turn on lights, take a shower, put on clean clothes, make breakfast, talk on the phone, check your email and watch the news on television. Maybe there are other things you were able to do as well.

All of these are gifts from a kind and loving God. He gives to us out of his care and concern for us. And his supreme desire is for us to use these blessings to bless others we know and will meet today.

Jesus said, “When someone has been given much, much will be required in return” (Luke 12:48). Look at how much we have, not just in our homes but everywhere we go. We drive nice cars, shop at large stores and malls, and eat at clean restaurants.

If the Lord has blessed you in some way, use that blessing to bless someone else. At the same time you count your blessings you can make a blessing count in another person’s life. Think of the many ways you can pay your blessings forward.

Don't eat your words (Friday, November 2)

Sometimes we are forced to eat our words. We utter something in haste and then we have to take it back. We must swallow our pride and admit we were wrong.

What we say might be about someone else, a situation or our own life. James 1:26 reminds us to keep a tight rein on our tongue lest we deceive ourselves through wrongful and judgmental thinking.

I recall in 1974 when I graduated from a university in Ohio with a bachelor’s degree. As I drove away from the institution for the last time, I expressed my joy and relief at not having to go to classes anymore. “I will never set foot on another college campus again in my life,” I told my wife, and I meant it.

Little did I know that nine years later God would guide me, as well as give me the intense desire, to go back to school for more studying and learning. I thought I knew what I wanted, but God knew what I needed. He had a better plan for my life than I did.

Seeking our spirituality (Thursday, November 1)

Being spiritual in a secular world requires patience and wisdom, the ability to step back from the intensity of the moment with complete confidence. Knowing God is in control of each situation should make a difference, no matter the situation.

But such faith and trust does not come easily. It must be built from day to day, one experience after another, until the struggles of daily living are barely visible in the brilliance of God’s glory and fullness. In the end, at the close of our life journey on earth, the only thing that will matter is God. The pain, humiliation and suffering will all cease and a new journey in eternity will begin.

You and I are learning, at this very moment, how to prepare for our spiritual life in heaven. God is teaching us slowly, step-by-step through each hardship and need, the way to depend on him. Each tiny seed of faith eventually grows to maturity, but will ripen only when nurtured by divine light. His light shows us the path to trusting him in everything.

The journey (Wednesday, October 31)

The apostle Paul was passionate about being a missionary. In his three journeys, Paul is known to have traveled to at least 38 cities. Some of these (Antioch, Derbe, Troas, Philippi, and Thessalonica) he visited two and three times. When he wasn’t preaching the gospel, he was writing letters to congregations he had already seen or to those worshippers he wanted to see: the Romans, Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, etc.

Few persons today can rival all that Paul did for the kingdom. Even when he came to the end of his journey in Rome, Paul still was serving the Lord. Confined and seemingly alone, Paul pressed on. The last verse in Acts tells us that, “For two whole years Paul stayed there in his own rented house and welcomed all who came to see him. Boldly and without hindrance he preached the kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ” (Acts 28:30).

We should remember Paul today not for what he did, but for what the Lord did through him. Actually, Paul did a simple thing: he followed the example of Jesus Christ by allowing the Lord to use his life. Giving our life to God is not complicated, but often we make it difficult because of our own stubbornness and desires. If we are serious about spreading the good news of salvation, we will let the Lord use us in his way.

God has our journey already planned, just as he did with Paul. We can either follow his direction or wander through life on our own. It is a simple decision that can have profound and lasting consequences.

Eternal purpose (Tuesday, October 30)

A warm smile can melt the coldest heart. A soft word can dissolve the hardest attitude. A gentle touch can soften the toughest feelings. And a loving approach can disarm the harshest behavior.

The ways to reach others, deep inside where it truly matters, are always with humility and meekness. Out of our submission comes the living demonstration of God’s grace and mercy. By blessing those around us we become a blessing to him.

Being kind does not come naturally, at least not to me. It requires great strength, perseverance, and persistence to be mild. There must be a driving passion to serve and please the Lord more than our own human emotions. We must allow him to be first, others second, and ourselves last.

In the end, what we do for someone else in God’s name is all that matters.

Tried like Job (Monday, October 29)

Sometimes we sound and feel like Job. We complain to the Lord that what we are going through is not fair. We grumble about our condition. In fact, we may even blame God for our circumstances.

What does God have to say to us about our complaints? Look at God’s response to Job. God does not chastise him. God does not punish him. God does not attack him.

Instead, God asks Job a series of rhetorical questions: Where were you at the creation of the world? Did you make the mountains and all the creatures? Did you make the heavens and the valleys? What part did you have in all of this?

In the end, Job realizes the true power of God. He understands that God is the creator of all life, all goodness and all mercy. Job finally sees that God is in control of everything – not only the beginning of the world but the final outcome of his small little life. With all of God’s might and perfection, Job knows that his future depends on a loving and caring Lord. He is a God who loves and protects what he has fashioned. He will not let it be destroyed.

Keeping one day holy (Sunday, October 28)

What we do or do not do on the Sabbath affects the other six days of the week. If we want to live each day with calmness and peace, we need to receive it during our time of worship and praise. If we want to reach out to others throughout the week, we must reach out to God on the day he has set aside for us.

We should not spend this special day like all of the others. God did not set aside this time of rest for us to do more shopping, more traveling, or more working. All of these things can leave us physically and emotionally exhausted. Instead, God wants us to use this day to build up ourselves. He wants us to gain strength, power, and peace by meditating on him.

God offers us so much more than the world. But it is up to us to accept it. We can use all of our energy running around on Sunday or we can receive God’s divine strength by spending our time with him. If we seek him as we ought on this one day, keeping it holy as he commands, he will be sure to take care of us the other six days.

What God does for us (Saturday, October 27)

Much of the beauty in our journey through the years lies in all that God has done for us: the loving people he has brought into our lives, the many times we were kept safe from harm, the unexplainable comfort we felt in the midst of anxiety, the opportunities that helped us grow, and the occasions when our hope was suddenly and inexplicably renewed. As we look back on everything, we realize God’s hand and plan at work.

We should not dwell on our past, but we at least need to stop long enough to remember all of the good things that have occurred. Too often we fail to see how far we have come and what God has truly accomplished for us. He has taken us through some tight times and, yet, he has been there time and time again to keep us steady and strong.

All we have gone through thus far has led us to this particular time and place. Though we may feel somewhat out of place, perhaps because of where we live or the job we have, we need to realize that God has a reason for each event and activity in our life. We are where we are for a purpose.

Reflecting on God’s divine guidance up to this point can give us the assurance and hope we need to keep moving forward, closer to him each day. Each step should take us ever nearer to where we will spend eternity. Only God knows the way and we must follow where he leads us.

Trust what you know (Friday, October 26)

The more I see and experience of life, the less I am able to make sense out of certain events. When I have to fight my way through the day, combatting one difficulty after another, I wonder about God’s purpose. What is he doing or how will he manage to bring good out of adversity?

The truth is that I will never understand, at least not fully, how God works. It should be sufficient for me to know that he does. When I am unable to make the leap from accepting life’s circumstances to trusting God, I complain like Job: “I cry out to you, O God, but you do not answer; I stand up, but you merely look at me. You turn on me ruthlessly; with the might of your hand you attack me” (Job 30:20-21). With every fiber of my emotions I seek some relief from God, yet he seems distant and far off.

At such times, I need to remind myself of the rest of the story concerning Job. In the end, God speaks to Job and informs him through a series of questions: “Where were you when I laid the earth’s foundation?...Who marked off the dimensions?...Who stretched a measuring line across it?...Have you ever given orders to the morning” (Job 38:4-12).

All Job can answer is that he did not comprehend the ways of God. “Surely I spoke of things I did not understand; things too wonderful for me to know” (Job 42:3). How often I must echo these same words. I do not know the Lord’s plan, nor do his actions make sense to me. Still, I can trust him. I should have the faith to know that God’s order and purpose is beyond the chaos and confusion I see daily.

Completly free (Thursday, October 25)

What if you and I were put on trial for all of the things we have done wrong: the angry words, the crude remarks, the hateful hits, the vengeful actions. We are being tried for all of it, knowing that we are indeed guilty of every act and thousands of sins.

The jury foreman stands and confirms our guilt by unanimous decision. But just before the sentence of death is pronounced, Jesus enters the courtroom. The room is silent and every eye is on him. He walks toward the bench.

Then Jesus turns. He looks directly at us. He smiles gently and says, “Your sins are forgiven.” Shocked and stunned, we struggle to understand what has happened. We suddenly realize we are free. We can walk out of the courtroom like anyone else and continue our lives. We do not deserve our freedom, but we have it.

And it is there each time we fall short. No exceptions. No conditions. No excuses. “Your sins are forgiven,” Jesus says, just as he did to the woman who wiped her tears from his feet with her hair (Luke 7:37-48). We no longer have to keep looking backward with regret or shame. We are completely free to move forward.

Listen up (Wednesday, October 24)

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” (Joshua 6:3-5).

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 sense to God. All we have to do is listen and obey.

Beating the giants (Tuesday, October 23)

The giants of this world loom large in our lives today, just as they did to the Israelites who were afraid to enter the Promised Land. But the giants all around us are often more than people. Sometimes they are things like anger, jealousy, anxiety, and regret. These emotions exist inside our minds and cause us to become our own worst enemy.

We can easily become crushed by our perspective, what we think, rather than by physical objects. We believe we cannot do something or we become afraid. We can feel discouraged even when there is no logical reason to fear.

We create giants out of all sorts of things: our jobs, our schedules, our chores, maybe those in our neighborhood whom we do not like. We are good at convincing ourselves that we have been defeated already; we are fighting a losing battle no matter what we do.

Let’s remember that everything is small when compared to God. There is nothing large in his eyes. As long as he is with us, and working through us, we can overcome anything, especially our own gigantic thoughts and emotions.

Walk free (Monday, October 22)

My life is an open book. We might say this from time to time and really mean it. We have to admit, though, that there are chapters we will not let anyone read. Perhaps it is out of pain or regret, but maybe because we are simply too embarrassed.

We are human beings and we do stupid things, especially when we are young. Each one of us carries around a lifetime of memories. The problem is that we rarely get rid of them – any of them. Sooner or later, we have to let go. Eventually, we have to release everything negative in our past before we are overcome by what we cannot change.

Peter talked about the forgiveness of God right after he healed the crippled beggar at the Gate Beautiful. Addressing the Israelites who witnessed the miracle, he said, “Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord” (Acts 3:19).

His words reflect what happened to the lame man. He could now walk and his days as a paralytic were completely gone. The same happens when we ask God to forgive us: the past is gone and our sins are vanished forever. We can walk free. Never again will we be paralyzed. 

No fret zone (Sunday, October 21)

What to do when everything goes wrong? My morning began with a sore back. Then I knocked a large glass off the kitchen counter and it shattered all over the floor. Next, the scrambled eggs stuck to the bottom of the pan. Finally, I snapped at my wife for some stupid reason. By the time I got done with breakfast, I was ready to go back to bed and not go anywhere.

Clearly, I had forgotten the second half of Psalm 37:8: “Do not fret—it leads only to evil.” Early in the day, one thing led to another until I wore myself out from fretting. What began with simple back pain ended with me being angry about everything. My own negative attitude dramatically changed how I acted and reacted.

How many times in life have we worked ourselves up into a complete frenzy? One thing sets us off and we are off in the wrong direction. We are headed down the proverbial path of no return, far from the road the Lord wanted us to take.

We would do well to create a “No fret zone” in our minds so we do not park ourselves there and stop living. We need to get away from worry and evil rather than spending time with them.

Making the choice (Saturday, October 20)

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 and 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 you with your heavy suitcase full of 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.

Why me? (Friday, October 19)

How many times in life have we asked, “Why me?” Why did I get sick when I had so much to do? Why are all these things happening at once? Why do I do all of the work and get none of the credit?

Instead of feeling like a victim, we should see opportunity in our obstacles. If we are stuck in traffic, for example, we can use the time to relax rather than being upset. If we have to add another errand to our already busy schedule, we can take advantage of doing something different. If we dread going to a job we dislike, we can stop to consider all the things our work allows to do in life.

There is a great deal of truth in the saying, “When life gives you lemons, make lemonade.” A much better adage is this: “Blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him” (Jeremiah 17:7).

Instead of always asking “why me,” we can take the chance to say “bless me.” As long as we trust God we will be blessed.

Seasons of change (Thursday, October 18)

The chimes on the neighborhood ice cream truck are beginning to fade as the breezes turn cooler and stronger. The falling leaves foreshadow the winter that soon will be here. Everywhere nature is changing and evolving in a miraculous cycle of seasons.

Our lives go through seasons as well. We have seasons of prosperity, difficulty, joy, hardship and success. No matter the many physical transformations that occur, one thing never changes: the unwavering and unconditional love of God.

He is with us through storm, sun, darkness and light. He knows the way and what we must go through. The Lord is both our guide and our Savior.

No matter what season you are in today, remember these words of Paul: “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things” (Colossians 3:2). Many scholars believe Paul wrote this letter to the church in Colossae while he was, in fact, in jail. He did not let his season of imprisonment stop him from serving.

Trading the past for the future (Wednesday, October 17)

The past can haunt us, but it also can help us. If we look back on our lives with complete clarity and honesty, the person we were before this moment can urge us into becoming more like Christ.

It is in personal times of reflection when we realize what we were not. We see our faults as others have seen us. For perhaps the first time, we recognize the anger, jealousy and hatred that drove us into places where we did not want to go. Yet, we followed our emotions anyway.

Now is the time to change. We do not have to live with or by our feelings anymore. “Let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles,” wrote St. Paul the apostle. “And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith” (Hebrews 12:1-2).

May we see ourselves becoming more like his perfect example today and less like our sinful selves of yesterday. Jesus took care of our past on the cross. Now he waits for us to follow him into the future.

Safe in the center (Tuesday, October 16)

All around on every side, life goes on. The traffic, schedules, meetings, appointments and shopping threaten our peace. The business and turmoil of everyday can rapidly steal the pleasure of living.

Life can feel like we are stuck in the center of a hurricane. The winds of trouble swirl fast, completely surrounding us. It is like being in the eye of a fierce storm. But the eye of a hurricane can be wide and quiet. Intense rain and wind are gone. There is an eerie stillness that is hard to describe. One minute is tranquil and the next is violent.

Each day has the potential to engulf us. We can become caught in the powerful bands of the storm or at rest in the center. Our position matters, both in our minds and in our relationship with the Lord.

Everything turns on faith. Do we trust him to keep us protected or do we become unnerved by the approaching eye wall? Let us not forget that he is greater than anything on earth. In truth, he is greater than anything in the universe, seen or unseen. God can keep us safe in the center because the world revolves around him.

In his name, go (Monday, October 15)

Do you realize how much power you have through Jesus Christ? First of all, nothing in this world can defeat you. Absolutely nothing!

"All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me,” Jesus said. “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 28:18-19). We can do whatever Jesus calls us to do because he is above all else: our fears, our weaknesses and our inabilities.

Not even evil can come against us and win. Once we believe that God is in control, evil has been defeated. The problem is that much too often we give evil a foothold in our thoughts. Then we quickly talk ourselves out of the victory that is just around the corner.

May we learn to listen to God more than our doubts. Jesus has “all authority in heaven and on earth.” If he says “go,” then nothing can stop us!

Keep on keeping on (Sunday, October 14)

Turn on the television on any Saturday afternoon in the fall and you will see hundreds of definitions of the word perseverance. From one channel to the next, football teams are battling and fighting to win the game each second of the clock.

Look at the determination of these college players: they push and strain for everything they are worth. All this work and effort just to claim a victory in one single contest.

Are we as determined as Christians? Do we keep fighting in the face of failure? Do we keep driving forward even when the chips are down and it seems like we are going to fall?

“Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess,” said the apostle Paul, “for he who promised is faithful” (Hebrews 10:23). Paul means we cannot lose in anything because God is faithful. We have his promise. Therefore, why would we ever want to give up on anything the Lord is doing with us or to us? At the very least, we should be as persistent as youngsters playing a football game.

Quick to anger (Saturday, October 13)

Most of us go through life doing just the opposite of what we are told. We are quick to anger, quick to speak and slow to listen. You and I should turn things around. We need to be “quick to hear, slow to speak and slow to anger” (James 1:19-20).

It was a small thing really. I made a comment to my brother, my true brother, that embarrassed me after all was said and done. I kept waiting for a check he owed me. After several days, I sent him an email asking about it. Turns out he never sent it when he said he did. “Thanks, Pinocchio,” I wrote, not sure if he would understand the allusion or not.

Day after day, while I waited for the check, I was tempted to taunt him again. But I planned to be even stronger and more direct. Thank the Lord, though, I never said anything.

When the check finally arrived, I remembered what I had said earlier in the week. I could not take back the words. All I could do now was to thank him, apologize and vow (as well as pray) to be “slow to speak and slow to anger” next time.

A complete waste of time (Friday, October 12)

Guilt and anger can take years to dissipate even when we are the ones who did nothing wrong. That is exactly why forgiveness is so important to us. We need to get over our ill feelings so these harmful emotions do not infect other parts of our life.

I had just started working at a new company when I was confronted by what someone said about me. Prior to accepting the position, I had asked a supervisor about the health of the business. What I wanted to know was how people got along. Sadly, this person used the information to report what another individual told me during an informal interview lunch.

For many years, various people at the company hated me, although I was nothing more than a victim. Each day, I struggled to get over the pain and resentment. It took almost a decade for me to come to grips with forgiveness. I often look back on all those many months and think of the hours I wasted harboring hatred. In the end, my enmity made absolutely no difference at all.

In all that time I had forgotten one important principle: “Forgive as the Lord forgave you” (Colossians 3:13). It took me a long time to learn my lesson. Much too long!

Going through the motions (Thursday, October 11)

You can tell when people are merely going through the motions. They seem to be on automatic pilot; there is no inner joy or happiness that we can detect.

Maybe there is a stock boy at the store who is stacking cans of vegetables on a shelf. Does he look bored or could he be thinking about how many people will be able to enjoy this food? Perhaps a teacher is going through a lesson. Does it sound like she has done this a thousand times before or is she enthusiastic and excited? What about the cashier at the 7-11 or McDonald’s down the street?

We can easily lose our joy and go through the motions of daily living. You and I have to rehearse over and over again what we are doing and why. Every act or action is for Jesus whether we are taking out the trash or texting on our cell phones. “I tell you the truth,” Jesus reminds us, “when you did it to one of the least of these my brothers and sisters, you were doing it to me (Matthew 25:40).”

The next time you do anything, do it for a reason. Do it for Jesus! Find your purpose and pleasure in pleasing him.

What is your average? (Wednesday, October 10)

Baseball players rise and fall depending on their batting average. The higher the better. To determine an average, the total number of times at bat are divided by the total hits. A player is considered a true star if the average is 50 percent (.500) or better. I wonder what would happen if we applied the same formula to our “hits” as Christians.

Maybe during our first time at bat this morning we had a bad attitude about getting up. On our way out the door, we ignored a neighbor who was waving hello. Then we saw someone who needed help and we walked right by. And then we felt prompted to encourage a friend, but decided to keep our thoughts to ourselves. So far, we have missed four chances to show God’s glory to others.

Our goal each day should be to do our best for the Lord. Yes, there will be occasions when we strike out. But there should be plenty of times when we get a hit and give the credit to God. He is the source of our gifts and success, and we should want to do better with each opportunity he gives us.

May we strive each moment to make the most of each chance we have to serve God. Not to impress him or anyone else. But to prove to the world what he can do through one single person like you and me.

Taking cover (Tuesday, October 9)

These days it sometimes seems as though we are obsessed with the weather. We want to know the forecast not only for tomorrow and the next day, but for the next 10, 20 or 30 days. Occasionally, we want to know what the weather might be like in three or four months when we take our summer vacation. Turn on the television or radio any time of the day and night, and you will hear the forecast.

The reality is that people want to prepare for what is ahead. We want to be ready if there is going to be rain, wind, snow, heat or frost. Even if we are not ready when we are caught unaware by a sudden storm, we can immediately run for shelter. We do not stand outside, without an umbrella or raincoat, and get wet. We go inside to prevent ourselves from getting soaked.

We do not do the same thing when the storms of life come our way. We know we should run to the Father and take shelter in him, yet we stand alone outside his protection and allow ourselves to be overcome by tragedy, disappointment, illness and sorrow. We let these things weigh us down instead of seeking divine cover.

God is our refuge, our fortress, our harbor. He is our safe place. If we have enough sense to come in out of the rain, we should have enough faith to come in out of the trials of life. God will care for us and look after us no matter how bad things seem to us. He knows the way when we can no longer see through the storm.

All for one (Monday, October 8)

I did a lot of praying the other day as I drove to and from my job. I prayed for the old man riding a bicycle on a narrow two-lane road. I prayed for the city workers picking up trash right next to the highway. I prayed for the construction crew building a new development. I prayed for the woman crossing the busy street. My prayers were for God to keep each person safe from harm.

It does not matter if we know the people for whom we pray. We are all daughters and sons of God. He created each one of us and we are his children. We are one family. He is counting on us to help him take care of each member, not just those we know well or those who are closest to us.

The apostle Paul said to the Colossians that whatever we do, we do for Jesus. “And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”

Though it may feel strange at first to pray for people we see but have never met, we can learn to reach out – in word or deed – to everyone no matter where we find ourselves. The alternative is to look away or not pay any attention to them. We certainly would not ignore a friend, so why would we close our eyes to one of our siblings in our Father’s family?

Trick or treat (Sunday, October 7)

The stores are full of a myriad of colorful costumes every October. Children can dress up like their favorite character and, for one night, become a pirate, superhero, princess, actor or cartoon figure. They have fun playing make-believe and receiving candy at every house.

But there also is the adult version of Halloween that, in many cases, may last year round. On any given Sunday, in any church, you will find those who are all dressed up. There is Danny the Worship Leader, Carol the Choir Director, Eddie the Elder, Sam the Sunday School Teacher, George the Greeter, Annie the Organist and dozens of other characters.

They all look nice, neat, pleasant and happy. What we do not see is who they are when they remove their costumes, when we see them throughout the rest of the week. Danny sends threatening and intimidating emails to those who work for him. Carol yells constantly at her three children and husband. Eddie takes office supplies to use at home. Sam never smiles at anyone or says hello. George talks about others to make himself look better. Annie always takes a two-hour lunch.

Perhaps you have seen some of these personalities at your church. But before we all start pointing out the real person behind the façade, we have to willing to take off our own mask. Most likely, there are many things we are hiding as well.

The process of renewing (Saturday, October 6)

Change is not easy. Some of us fight back for all we are worth while others simply sit down and give in. It is one thing to talk about making adjustments in our lives, but following through is another story. We have to be serious and completely committed to what needs to be done.

God can do very little with us until we make the first move. As much as we would like to wake up some morning and be a new person, there is no magic cure. God does not wave a wand over us and, in an instant, we are transformed. In order for us to change, we need to do what he tells us and stick to it.

We need to remember that we are not on this journey of change by ourselves. We have God, first of all. He will be with us to strengthen and encourage us. We also have family and friends who love us and want the best for us. Many of them pray for us daily. They pray for our safety, our protection and our care. We are not alone even though we think so.

If you need to make a change in your life today, whether it involves your way of thinking or a way of doing something, turn it over to God. That is the first step. The next step is to listen to him. Do what he says and focus on him. Soon you will be a different person because you allowed him to renew you.

Pleasing him first (Friday, October 5)

We do not want to disappoint people, especially those whom we love. We try our best to please those at home, at work, at church and in our neighborhood. We will do all kinds of things to make others think well of us. Many times, we go far out of our way to help someone, even complete strangers.

But how often do we think about pleasing God? Is he on our mind? Are we thinking about him in everything we do? Probably not. Our first thought should be to make God happy – to please him, no matter what the world might think of us. We should realize by now that we cannot satisfy both God and man. You and I have to make a choice. Chances are we usually side with those around us rather than God because we know he will forgive us while people will not.

That is not the point. We should want to delight him so much that we do not care about the consequences of people rejecting us. Think about all of the saints who put him first, ahead of everything including their own lives.

Jesus came to earth not only to offer us salvation. He also came to serve as an example. As we go through this day, let us follow his way in pleasing the father despite the price. In the long run that is all that really matters.

100 times 2 (Thursday, October 4)

Can we possibly fathom getting a hundred times as much in return for what we have given up for the Lord? But we will receive much more, according to Jesus. Not only will we gain a hundredfold in this lifetime, but in eternity as well.

Jesus stated that, “No one who has left home or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or fields for me and the gospel will fail to receive a hundred times as much in this present age: homes, brothers, sisters, mothers, children and fields—along with persecutions—and in the age to come eternal life” (Mark 10:29-30).

The next time we are called to do something or to sacrifice anything for the kingdom, may we remember what Jesus promised both now and in the next life. The kindness we share, the encouragement we offer, the time and money we give, the suffering we endure will all come back to us one hundred times two!

We will be blessed far more than we can conceive, and certainly much more than we deserve.

Everything is possible (Wednesday, October 3)

Jesus always had a way of making a point so people would remember. Imagine what one father thought when he brought his son to Jesus to be healed from demons. The man asked for help saying, “If you can do anything, take pity on us and help us.”

If I can, asked Jesus, probably with some irony and surprise. “Everything is possible for one who believes,” he added (Mark 9:20-23).

I can almost hear Jesus saying the same to you and me today. We come to him with our petitions and prayers, asking Jesus to help if he can. Help me find a new job, Jesus, if you can. Help me with my pain, Jesus, if you can. Help me with my finances, Jesus, if you can.

To each request, Jesus answers, “If I can? Everything is possible for one who believes.” When will we learn that Jesus can do anything? And he will do everything for those of us who believe. The point is that we have to believe that he can before he will.

More like him (Tuesday, October 2)

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. 

 Strength in our joy (Monday, October 1)

What do we mean when we say “the joy of the lord is my strength” (Nehemiah 8:10)? Are we implying that our strength comes from our joy, or that our joy comes from our strength in God? Perhaps there is a double meaning in this phrase that we sometimes miss.

It could be that our joy comes from what we have in God, from his power and might. We could also say that our strength comes out of our joy in the Lord.

Suppose I begin praising the Lord because of his great mercy and love for me? In thanking him, I gain spiritual strength. Likewise, I have power to trust him because of the joy I find in him.

Either way we say it, God gives us what we must have in order to serve him with gladness. We can proclaim “the joy of the lord is my strength” and “the strength of the lord is my joy.”

Lip service (Sunday, September 30)

No matter where we live we have our traditions, especially when it comes to celebrating certain holidays and seasons. Tradition is what connects us to our past and to the ways of our family. It also establishes a routine that makes us feel comfortable because we know what we need to do in each situation.

One day Jesus told the Pharisees that, “You have a fine way of setting aside the commands of God in order to observe your own traditions” (Mark 7:9). Several of them were questioning Jesus about why his disciples ate with unclean hands; they did not wash their hands as instructed by the ancient elders of the temple.

Jesus was quick to see their hypocrisy. The Pharisees followed their own customs and traditions more than the laws of God. The ceremonial washing of hands was important to them, yet it did not matter that they now were judging others—one thing God had said not to do. This was but one example of what Jesus meant when he quoted from prophecy: “These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me” (Isaiah 29:13).

What about you and me? Do we follow Jesus with our speech, but pay more attention to our ways and habits of doing things? We must learn to be who we say we are: followers of Jesus. There is no place for lip service when we serve him. He demands both our service and our hearts.

Shallow or deep? (Saturday, September 29)

Faith must go much deeper than sight. It has to be rooted in the heart and exercised by the mind; otherwise, faith becomes little more than an empty word.

Immediately after feeding the 5,000 with five loaves and two fish, Jesus put his disciples in a boat to go ahead of him to Bethsaida. He then went up a mountain to pray. Many hours later, says Mark in his gospel, they saw him walking on the lake. “He was about to pass by them” when they cried out, thinking he was a ghost.

According to the account, “they were completely amazed for they had not understood about the loaves; their hearts were hardened” (Mark 6:52). What happened the previous afternoon, the miracle of the fish and the loaves, did not change how the disciples looked at Jesus. Their hearts were still like many of the people who merely wanted him to heal them.

Once we truly realize who Jesus is we no longer think of him in the same way as we do an ordinary person. When we recognize him as the Son of God, we can release our faith completely in him, knowing he is able to do anything. We also will see that walking on water is a small thing even though it seems huge and impossible to us.

Change in and through us (Friday, September 28)

What God can do in a person’s life is nothing short of amazing. Paul is proof of how God can turn evil into good. One day Paul was persecuting Christians, the next he was protecting them.

Paul’s miraculous conversion came after years of opposition and torment against the followers of Jesus. He despised these people and everything they believed. He even watched the stoning of Stephen, “giving approval to his death,” writes the apostle Luke (Acts 8:1).

Just a brief time later, though, Paul is radically changed forever. Saul becomes Paul, a completely different person. He is a new creature, reborn in Christ. Soon, he will travel to the ends of the earth to spread the good news of salvation to all who are willing to listen. He will see, with new eyes, the power and authority of God himself as he is guided each day by the Holy Spirit.

What God did then he continues to do today in the lives of people everywhere. He can use us just as he did Paul, if we accept the change he wants to bring about through us.

The little things (Thursday, September 27)

If there are times when we forget about some of our responsibilities as followers of Christ, we can be sure God will bring it to our attention. We are prone to ignore our manners as Christians and we occasionally need a small nudge to wake us up.

A woman recently moved in across the street. I knew I should go over and welcome her to the neighborhood. I kept putting it off, though, thinking I would do it later.

I finally talked to this young woman, but not at her new townhouse. I encountered her at my dentist’s office; she is the hygienist whom I had met a year earlier. Imagine my surprise. She was cleaning my teeth when she said she bought a house in the same development. It turned out to be right across the street.

Needless to say, I was embarrassed. I would have acted much differently had I realized someone I knew moved in. God gave me a subtle reminder: "Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much” (Luke 16:10). I learned not to ignore the little things I should do. Next time will be different.

Beautiful day (Wednesday, September 26)

I once knew a man—his nickname was Binky—who would fill his small doughnut shop in Roanoke, Virginia, with more than great-tasting doughnuts and fresh coffee. No matter what day it was, Binky would walk among the tables, pouring extra coffee for everyone. As he went from person to person, he would always exclaim, “Beautiful day, beautiful day. Great to be alive.”

From time to time, I would repeat the same phrase in our house at breakfast. When our children were little, they delighted in joining in with me. I would say “Beautiful day, beautiful day.” And they would shout joyfully, “Great to be alive!” The game got old, though, as they grew up. I would have to repeat my line several times before they would even respond; and then their voices sounded tired and weary. The youthful excitement and energy was no longer there.

How often do we as Christians lose our enthusiasm for life? We go through the routine of being happy, but we might feel bored or worn out inside. We allow our emotions to dictate what we think and do, even though we know better.

Each day is a “Beautiful day” and it is “Great to be alive.” God has blessed us with so much, from each breath we take to our family and friends. Most of all, though, God has already given us eternal life. We have a special place waiting for us in heaven. We can truly rejoice today because of paradise. With Binky, we can say, “Beautiful day, beautiful day. Great to be alive!”

Planning ahead (Tuesday, September 25)

What are you and I trying to do today? Maybe something ordinary or routine. Perhaps a task that is extraordinary and unique. Either way, God must be at the core of any action, thought, or words. He is the basis on which we build our lives. Without him, little of what we do matters.

Not only is God the architect who conceived and created us, but he also is the one who knows how everything is supposed to fit together. He designed all of the pieces and he planned where they belong. But many times, we want to build our own life. We think we understand what needs to be done. We go about adding all kinds of things to the design and then wonder why we are having problems.

What good is a blueprint if the contractor does not follow it? The structure is sure to fall. Our lives are like houses. They must be built on a firm foundation; otherwise we will fail.

“Unless the Lord builds the house, the workers labor in vain” (Psalm 127:1). There is a master plan for each one of us to follow. We need to make sure we take the time to read it carefully and do what it says. If we do, we know how everything will turn out in the end.

A future full of wonder (Monday, September 24)

The mystery of God’s divine plan can never make sense to our human minds. We look at the world from an earthly perspective, but God sees the universe. He controls both the seen as well as the unseen, the known and the unknown. His ways are far above all of our logic and physics. Rather than being dismayed by the workings of God, we should take great delight in knowing that he can accomplish anything at any time.

How long have people wondered about the reason for daily events and circumstances? For thousands of years people have tried to understand God. The prophet Habakkuk, living in the 7th century before the birth of Christ, struggled to comprehend why the wicked often seem to flourish while the good suffer. Despite his complaints and pleas to God, Habakkuk found no relief. In fact, God’s answer made him even more perplexed.

The Lord announced that he was sending the Babylonians to judge and rule over the people of Jerusalem. But “how can you, the all-good, the just God, use such a vicious instrument of judgment—you who cannot bear of the sight of evil,” Habakkuk questions. God responded simply and resolutely: “Look at the nations and watch—and be utterly amazed” (Habakkuk 1:5).

Like Habakkuk, we need to stand back and watch with confidence, knowing that our God will help us. But he will not rescue us according to our human designs. The Lord of all creation will save us in a way that we could not dream or even imagine. He delights in surprising and satisfying us with his incredible power and plan. Let us always anticipate, rather than fear, the future that will most certainly come without warning and with wonder.

With him (Sunday, September 23)

All of us have a particular handicap. It might be visible, but it also may be deeply hidden. We know we have a weakness, whether it is physical or mental, and we must face it each day. The good news is that we do not have to deal with the problem alone, no matter how much we seem to be limited.

Paul had some sort of “thorn in the flesh” (2 Corinthians 12:7). He never revealed his difficulty to the world, yet he prayed earnestly for the Lord to heal him. Three times! The miracle he sought never came. Still, he continued to serve the Lord. Peter, too, had a handicap; he was always impetuous, ready to react at the first sign of trouble. Then there was Thomas who doubted even Jesus. We are no different today. Each one of us has a certain impediment in our life that we want God to remove. Did we ever stop to consider, though, that our “thorn in the flesh” actually may help us by bringing us closer to God?

With him we have more than what we need to accomplish anything. In the name of Jesus, we can heal, prosper, succeed, and overcome. There is nothing that can hold us back from accomplishing the Lord’s will both for us and for others. God told Paul that, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9). In other words, the weaker Paul was in himself the greater the grace and strength from God.

Yes, we may have a handicap, something that seems to hold us back. But we also have God’s grace, his divine ability, to give us complete success and victory. With him, we cannot fail. Without him, we cannot win.

His battle (Saturday, September 22)

The occasional battles we face in life belong to the Lord, yet we take them personally. We want to get involved and solve the problem on our own. What we fail to realize is that much of what we encounter is bigger than us, more powerful than one person alone. Still we strike out and wonder why we cannot defeat the enemy.

God is always ready and willing to help. He can fight our battles for us, if we can step out of the way. Like a parent who protects his children at all costs, God will keep us safe from harm. He will not allow a single arrow to wound us. “For the battle is not yours, but God’s” (2 Chronicles 20:15).

When circumstances overwhelm us, we need to repeat this verse over and over again until we accept and believe it. God can do incredible things in impossible situations. As creator of the universe, he will create a way for us through any trial. With him, we are victorious even before the battle begins.

The gift of time (Friday, September 21)

What Jesus taught us is the importance of sacrifice: putting the needs of others before our own, helping someone even though we need help, giving away something we value, caring for a loved one who is demanding, calling friends and neighbors to encourage them. All of these acts require discipline and strength. But they also require our time.

As human beings we have a tendency to squander time. We want to keep it to ourselves, to make sure we have time to do the activities we need or want to do. We think about the time required each day just to accomplish the routine tasks, let alone anything extra. We often say we need more than 24 hours to get everything done. What we need, however, is not more time. What we need is more discretion and better judgment.

We must get in the habit of exercising caution and prudence when it comes to spending our time wisely. We need to get to the place where we look for opportunities to sacrifice our time for the sake of someone else. Then and only then will we understand what Jesus tried to show us. He gave up every minute of his life for others so that they could live a more abundant life.

Our calling is to follow his example: to sacrifice a part of ourselves in order that those around us can experience a better and more meaningful life. The precious time we have is not ours to keep. It is a gift from God. He gives us time so we can spend it serving him by helping others, not ourselves.
 
Realizing his power (Thursday, September 20)

How many times do we think we know everything about another person only to find out we are wrong? The 12 disciples thought they knew Jesus. Even though they had been with him only a short while, they saw him heal the sick, cure the blind and cast out demons. But they had never seen him overcome the tremendous forces of nature!

They were in a boat one evening, writes Mark in his gospel, when a furious squall came up. Fearing for their lives, the disciples cried out to Jesus sleeping in the back of the boat: “Don’t you care if we drown?” Instantly, he got up and commanded the winds and the waves to cease.

At this, the faithless followers became “terrified and asked each other, ‘Who is this? Even the wind and the waves obey him’” (Mark 4:41). They were stunned and horrified at Jesus’ incredible power. It must have taken many days to process what they saw. And even then they could not fully comprehend the miracle.

Like them, we know Jesus can do anything, but we are surprised when we see him perform wondrous feats. Somehow our minds fall far short of our faith when we actually witness his authority. The next time we doubt whether Jesus is watching over us, let us remember what Jesus can do. He may have been asleep in the boat, but he was more than able to take care of them. Jesus knew he was greater than anything on earth. Now they were beginning to realize it, too.

The open door (Wednesday, September 19)

God opens doors. We close them. When difficulties arise, we turn to God for help. We ask him to show us a way out and what to do. We want to know where to go next. God is constantly faithful. Each time, he responds to our needs and guides us forward.

Often, however, we refuse to go with him. The open door is there in front of us, but we do not like where it leads. We don’t like what we see. It is not what we expected or not the answer we were seeking. So we try to close the door, hoping God will change his mind and give us another choice.

God will not wait for us. Nor will he suddenly adjust his good and perfect will to do what we think is best. He knows where each door leads. He knows exactly what is at the end of every path, whether good or bad. What looks inviting to us, at first, may take us where our lives will be even more difficult and painful.

When we go with God we follow the road of least resistance. The only way we will know for sure, though, is to step through the open door rather than trying to close it.

Choose life (Tuesday, September 18)

Most of the time, our perspective about life is wrong. We tend to think God is always here to help us and serve us. Throughout the day, we spend time in prayer asking God to do all sorts of things: take care of our family, help us be more patient, show us which way to go, keep us safe, give us wisdom. God surely wants us to look to him for all our needs, but he expects more.

He desires that we will come to him each day, asking with an earnest and open heart what we can do for him. We can easily forget that we were designed and created for his purpose, his pleasure and his need. The “life” we have been given is not ours alone. It is God who imparts this gift to us and it is his to control. Too often, though, we tend to think we make the decision about whether we go right or left, remain where we are or move on. There is where we go wrong. Doing God’s will for our life is paramount, no matter how we feel or think, if we are going to be a faithful follower. We must be able to set aside our will for the greater will of God.

God tells us clearly, “This day I call heaven and 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). His way is the kind of life we are seeking; our way is surely a dead end.

Once we realize that God always wants what is best for us, in each and every situation, we become more willing to release control of our lives. God grants us the freedom to choose our path each day, and he loves us so much he tells us which is the right direction. We can only find meaning in the ways of God.

The word made flesh (Monday, September 17)

The spiritual and the physical intersect at creation. This precise point is where we find “the word made flesh.” All that is seen today – the earth, the seas, the heavens, our bodies – began as thought in the very mind of God. With his divine and holy breath, God spoke the world into being. The invisible substance and spirit of God coalesced to become physical matter.

As human beings, we do not perceive the eternal dimensions of the universe. We know only of life with its beginning, middle and end. We understand little of the spiritual elements that are at work throughout the world. We can experience them only in subtle, sublime ways, using the limited abilities we possess as human beings. We can feel the power of the Holy Spirit, for example, or hear the voice of God. We can even see God working in our lives. But the true essence of God is completely beyond our finite comprehension.

The physical nature of God – that which we encounter as human beings – reflects only a fraction of His totality. God cannot be represented fully by the physical alone, for His greatness cannot be contained in one dimension. God surpasses all that we can see, feel or hear. God has no beginning or end; he is both spirit and flesh yet neither one nor the other; he is the past, present and future on all levels; he is everywhere at every time. Put simply, he is. Trying to understand God by relying on our paltry senses is to diminish His eternal form and power.

God is far beyond our comprehension, yet he reveals a part of himself through creation. This act alone should show us just how important we are to Him. We were created in His image; our lives, and all that is in the earth, are physical reflections and reminders of His infinite being and love. 

In control (Sunday, September 16)

The closer we get to the Lord, the more we are able to overcome the little problems and difficulties of everyday life. Our perspective changes dramatically when we rise above our earthly plane. Suddenly, we are no longer bothered by things that once had such an impact on us. Even our own feelings of anger and self-pity no longer have a hold on us when we are close to God.

“Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God” (Colossians 3:2-3). Focusing on God and his ways lifts us up out of the ways, and ordinary troubles, of the world. We become more concerned with eternal “things” than those which are temporal. Our values change: we practice love rather than hate, acceptance rather than rejection, willingness rather than stubbornness, and tolerance rather than impatience.

It is hard, at first, to distance ourselves from the world because we are so much a part of it. Every day we have to deal with angry people, bad drivers, inconsiderate co-workers. In addition, we are surrounded by sickness, poverty, homelessness and disasters. The Lord tells us to “set our minds on things above” so that we will have the strength and the hope to cope with what we see and experience. God wants us to learn to trust him more, and our own emotions and feelings less. He is, after all, in control and he is high above everything else. 

Seeing God’s fullness (Saturday, September 15)

The most important time to go to God is not in a crisis, but when everything is going well. Then we can be sure we are thankful to him in the right way. We are able to reach out with a free and grateful heart. We seek him for himself rather than for ourselves—what we may want or desire.

It is easy to get into the habit of going to God only when we need something. Through the years, we develop a pattern of forgetting about him until there is a specific need in our lives. We suddenly run to him when we have failed or if we require more than we can do for ourselves. When we have finally given up, we look up to him in prayer.

We can see and understand so much more of God if we are not weighed down by the ordinary difficulties and cares of life. When our hearts are open and unburdened, we have a chance to experience his full nature, his complete greatness. During times of praise and thanksgiving, he can reveal himself to us in all of his glory, not just in his power to answer our pleas.

It makes little sense to settle for part of God when he wants to give himself completely to us.

Christianity (Friday, September 14)

There is nothing worse than a hostile Christian. You and I have to be on our toes each moment so we do not lose our temper or composure. We constantly need to keep in mind that our actions and words should bring honor to the Lord. “Let your light shine before men,” Jesus said. “That they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16).

The other day, I fell victim to my own emotions. I was waiting at a stop light when it turned green. A young man on his cell phone was crossing in front of me. I blew the horn. He immediately began shouting and shaking his fist. Before I had time to restrain myself, the words flew out of my mouth. “It’s a green light,” I yelled. “Get off the phone!”

My light was not shining for the Lord that morning. This individual now knows nothing about me except that I am a vengeful person. As I drove off, I felt embarrassed over what I had done and said. But there was no going back; no second chance to undo the situation.

All of us make stupid decisions as we go through life. Thank goodness God is there to forgive us. Thank goodness, too, this young man did not know I consider myself to be a Christian. If he did, he would not have wanted anything to do with my particular brand of angry Christianity. I should have kept my mouth shut and my hand off the horn if I really desired to bring praise to my Father. Instead, I was concerned only about myself.

Praying to hear (Thursday, September 13)

How many times have you prayed today? Maybe I should ask, instead, how much time you have spent in prayer so far this day? Whatever the answer, I am sure we do not spend nearly enough time communing with God.

We may be fairly good at following Jesus’ example when it comes to feeding the hungry, helping the homeless and caring for the sick, but we seldom think about Jesus’ standard for prayer. Praying was the single, most important element of his life, far greater than any teaching or healing. Without prayer, he would not have been able to do anything.

Luke 6:12 tells us that, “One of those days Jesus went out to a mountainside to pray, and spent the night praying to God.” Most of us have a difficult time praying for an hour, let alone all through the night. We run out of things to say. But the genuine substance of praying is found in the hearing – listening for God to tell us what to do, where to go, when to help, and how to minister.

We, like Jesus, ought to do nothing before or without prayer. We have to hear God before we can do his will.

Shore up your faith (Wednesday, September 12)

Doing good for others is great. If we are not careful, though, we can become so caught up in good works that we throw our lives completely out of balance. Concentrating solely on doing good all of the time can come at the expense of our faith.

A dear brother in Christ told me he believed God was proud of all he has done for other people. He cited helping the youth ministry at church, supporting a mother and daughter who would have been homeless, leaving a tip whenever he goes out to eat and buying books for a struggling college student. He never said anything about his faith. The more he mentioned about good works, the more I began to wonder about my own life. Perhaps I am so busy trying to do good everywhere that I do not have time to work on my faith.

James wrote that “faith without works is dead” (James 2:17). Paul, however, held that we are “justified by our faith” and not by our works (Romans 5:1). According to Paul, faith alone is what matters. James seems to be saying just the opposite by emphasizing works. Who is right?

The answer is that neither one is wrong. Faith and works go hand in hand, though our faith in Christ is what saves us. In accepting Jesus’ death for our sins, we naturally want to spend our lives on earth pleasing and serving him. As we do, let us not forget or neglect our faith. May we shore up our faith in the same manner, and with the same kind of determination, as our good works.

Forgive forever (Tuesday, September 11)

What good can there be in digging up the past, especially feelings of anger or resentment. Jesus says we are to forgive others in the same way he forgives us for whatever we have done. I have learned, the hard way, that it is best to put the past behind us instead of letting it decide our future.

For years my mother and her sister did not speak or see one another. They lived only one street apart and would go to great lengths to avoid a chance encounter. Perhaps they both felt they were justified and had made their peace with God about the situation. The problem is, God probably did not make his peace with them. The silence and separation continued to the day they both were dead.

I can only imagine the reunion that eventually took place in heaven. When God forgave them, they were finally together at last and forever. I know my grandmother, their mother, cried for joy at the sight.

We have God’s promises no matter what has happened in our lives on earth. “My peace I give to you,” Jesus said. “Forgive one another just as the Father forgives you.” This is what life in Christ is all about.

Seeking happiness (Monday, September 10)

Happiness does not always fall upon us as we would like. Sometimes we have to seek it out. We must push ourselves, fighting our own thoughts, in order to see the peace and comfort that awaits us in the distance.

The tribulations of daily living sometimes can be more than we can bear. We are so small that we wonder how we can survive the enormous storms that assail us. But no one, not even God, expects us to struggle alone. We have friends and family who are always there to help. More than that, though, we have God himself! In fact, he is all we need.

He is more loving, more powerful, more caring than a thousand persons who might pledge their support and encouragement. God remains, no matter our distress. What he says, he will do. We have his promise.

We can count on him to give us the comfort we so desperately need. We only need to ask, and he will give us a far greater peace than we can find on our own. What he gives is forever; what the world gives is only for now.

Heaven and earth (Sunday, September 9)

The other day, I heard a preacher on the radio put an interesting spin on a common phrase. Usually, people say that Christians are so heavenly minded that they are no earthly good. This minister, however, turned the sentence around. Perhaps we should say, he said, Christians are so earthly minded that they are no heavenly good.

He is right. How often are we filled more with the thoughts of the world than the thoughts of heaven? We get caught up in where we are living now that we forget about where we will be living tomorrow. All of who and what we are at this moment in our lives on earth should somehow find their purpose, their fulfillment and meaning, in God’s heavenly kingdom. If not, we are missing the mark.

We are human beings but we do not have to be so human. God gave us the ability to think and the guidance of the Holy Spirit so we could rise above our humanity. We need to learn how to be more heavenly minded before we run out of time – for both ourselves and the people God wants us to reach. Let’s set our sights on heaven as we accomplish our work on earth.

Beliefs + behavior = You (Saturday, September 8)

The truth be told, I confess that I am sometimes guilty of separating my faith from my conduct. I have been able, like most people, to act as I felt and still think my faith was true. What I failed to see is that my beliefs and behavior are part and parcel of my Christianity.

Many of us want to say that what we do is one thing and our commitment to God is another. Not so. There is no separation. We have to change our perspective on how we view ourselves. We need to see ourselves as God does.

We could not argue, for example, that David’s affection for Bathsheba was apart from his faith in God. Nor could we say that Judas’ lust for money did not affect his love for Jesus. Who we are is what we are. Whatever we do is related to our beliefs; likewise, whatever our beliefs are determine what we do.

The next time we are tempted to step out of our responsibility as Christians, may we think about who we are first so we do not regret what we do next.

Use it or lose it (Friday, September 7)

A popular expression people utter in all kinds of situations is: “Use it or lose it.” The phrase can apply to exercising, driving, learning or thinking. It also can pertain to our faith, and whether we use our faith as much as we should.

When we have doubt we are not using our faith. When we fail to wait for an answer from God we are not using our faith. When we fall apart during a time of difficulty we are not using our faith.

Using our faith is actively practicing what we know and believe about God to give us the ability to trust him. It is like the game you might have played when you were younger: you would fall backward and the person behind – the one you could not see – would catch you. Do you trust God enough to believe he will not let you fall?

I wonder if we are able to declare with the psalmist, “But as for me, I trust in You, O Lord; I say, ‘You are my God.’ 
My times are in Your hand” (Psalm 31:14-15). Unless we use our faith daily, we will probably lose it.

Desiring the best (Thursday, September 6)

The Lord promises that if you delight in him, he will give you the desires of your heart (Psalm 37:4). You have to be careful, though, what you wish for or desire.

I was recently on the other side of the city and drove by the townhouse my wife and I wanted to buy 10 years ago. It was spacious with a huge kitchen and an enormous dining room. We fell in love with the unit the minute we walked in the front door. The only problem was the cost; it was expensive. We managed to convince the bank, though, that we had the funds for both the monthly mortgage and the association dues. We made an offer and waited. Our bid was rejected.

Weeks later, we bought almost an identical townhouse in another part of the city: for $60,000 less and no homeowners’ fees! We finally realized this was the house the Lord was leading us to the entire time. In many ways it was better than the one we saw initially: we live on a cul-de-sac, the park is just 50 yards away and there are young families everywhere. 

Sometimes we don’t always know the true desires of our heart until God shows us. We thought we knew what we wanted, but God planned something much better for us. Thankfully, we were not able to buy the first townhouse. God was watching out for us the whole time, and we learned not to trust our heart too much until we knew what God wanted for us.

Time to rejoice (Wednesday, September 5)

Pure joy is found in God. No place else. Rejoice in the Lord always, Paul wrote, for he learned there was no lasting joy in what did not last.

Be grateful for God’s grace. Be thankful for his forgiveness. Be at peace because of his love. Be glad for his gift of salvation. All of these are eternal. They will never fade away. Nor will they disappear during times of difficulty.

Beyond the trials of life, God is always there – always faithful. There is joy in him even when there is sadness all around. Paul could rejoice in the Lord at all times because he rejected worldly situations and circumstances. To him, life was a spiritual matter.

He had joy through God, not through himself or what he was going through at the moment.

When God is silent (Tuesday, September 4)

When we have a decision to make, we may not have a clue of what God wants us to do. What happens in the quiet times, on those occasions when God seems to be silent? What about when we do not hear from him no matter how much we pray or beg for an answer?

Perhaps God wants us to be patient and to wait until he is ready. But why doesn’t he tell us so? Why can’t he say “wait,” instead of saying nothing at all? We do not understand.

We will never comprehend God, at least not until we are with him in heaven. If God thought and acted like us, we would have no need for him. He would be no different than the person down the street or our neighbor.

The Lord had to remind Isaiah of something we often forget: “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts” (Isaiah 55:9). Rather being annoyed when God does not respond right away, we should be thankful he is not like us as human beings. He has a better way to resolve our situation than anything we can imagine. Let us trust him enough not to do anything until he is ready to respond.

Growing the word (Monday, September 3)

The epistle of James explains that the word of God is implanted in us from the beginning. “He chose to give us birth through the word of truth,” James says, “that we might be a kind of firstfruits of all he created. . . . Humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you” (James 1:18-21).

God’s love, compassion, wisdom and all the other divine truths are part of us because we are created by the mind of God. We know that we are made in his likeness, but this likeness, this image, is entirely spiritual.

The great question, then, is whether we are nurturing his goodness and holiness that dwells in us? As we grow from day to day, are we allowing these seeds of God’s word (his very truths) to develop and flourish as they should? We have to make a choice. Either we are growing or we are dying.

James says we should accept the word, with deep humility and gratitude, because will save us. We are God’s “firstfruits” of all creation: the first offered up to his greatness. We show his glory and majesty when we produce the spiritual fruit that grows from the word implanted in us at birth.

Provide the faith (Sunday, September 2)

The headlines spell out the lamentable condition of our country these days: “Sex Charges Cast a Pall on a College Town,” “Campaigns Play Loose With Truth,” and “Harvard Students in Cheating Scandal Say Collaboration Was Accepted.” The sad fact is that there is much sin and trouble all around us. Sometimes it is enough to make us want to give up and give in to the world.

But when all else seems lost, God is still there. He is still healing the sick, feeding the hungry, sheltering the homeless and caring for the needy both physically and spiritually. He does all of this through you and me. He empowers us with his strength, his might, his love. He gives himself to us so that we can show his glory to others.

God works today as he did in the past. Nothing has changed in thousands of years: from Adam to Abraham to Moses to Jesus to us. Time after time, scripture tells what he is able to do. No example is more well-known than Jesus feeding the multitudes. When the disciples wanted to send the people off to find their own food, what did Jesus say? “They do not need to go away; you give them something to eat” (Matthew 14:16).

Though they probably did not understand fully, they saw what he meant when he took the fish and loaves, looked up to heaven and gave thanks. Jesus relied on the Father for the miracle to provide for each person that day. In the same way, we are here to help others, not drive them away. We are here to offer whatever God wants to do through us. He will always provide the miracle as long as we provide the faith and the thanks.

The captivity of anger (Saturday, September 1)

Out of our pain we learn more about ourselves and our God. We find out how much he can comfort us when others hurt us. Only he can give us the strength and the hope we need to heal the wound.

Unlike us, there is nothing he cannot overcome. The problem is that we do not go to him as we should. When people come against us or attack us, for one reason or another, we retreat into ourselves. We crawl into our own feelings and become upset. We might even think of ways to get even.

Jesus says that what we need to do is to forgive. Forgiveness is the only way we can free ourselves from the captivity of anger. Maybe you have heard persons say, “I can’t forgive; You don’t know what they did to me.” That may be true, but we do not have a choice. We have to forgive if for nothing else than for our own sake. We have to rise above any offense, just as Jesus did, and put the matter in the past.

First, we have to be open to letting him help us. Then, and only then, can God restore our health and happiness. We will never get over the anger until we can get over our own feelings. God knows what happened and he will take care of everything just as he promised.

We need hope (Friday, August 31)

Physical and mental pain can wear us down, even change our attitude and behavior. Each new day seems more excruciating than the last when we are suffering from disease, injury, sorrow or grief. In our anguish, we cry out to the Lord for help. We beg God to take away the pain, perhaps just for a few minutes. Ironically, the word pain comes from a Latin word meaning penalty or punishment. At times, pain does seem like punishment because of its severity and intensity.

But before we question or doubt God, we need to realize that he is not the cause of our pain. Instead, God is the answer to it. He can comfort us in many ways. He heals today just as he did in the past. His miraculous power has never changed, and he delights in taking away our distress. But his plan is not always to remove the pain. During the agony, though, God is there with us to offer consolation, reassurance and, most of all, hope.

Like a mother who comforts a hurting child, God consoles us by taking away the anguish; he reassures us by saying he loves us; and he gives us hope by telling us we are strong enough to endure. There will be periods in life when we cannot seem to conquer the physical presence of pain. Yet, we can always rise above our bodily suffering by concentrating on God. In him, we find our purpose, our power and our potential both for today and tomorrow. We can have hope with God because God is with us.

Taking it personally (Thursday, August 30)

People try to help us at times. They want to console us by saying things like “don’t take it personally” or “just forget about it” or “don’t worry.” Easier said than done.

Remember the story of Job. His three friends tried to convince him that he had wronged God in some way. He offended the Lord; therefore, he was being punished for his sins. But Job knew himself. He knew he had been an upright and faithful man. Yet, what could explain his calamity? Nothing. So what good would it have done for Job to blame himself over and over for his own suffering?

Often, we think people do or say things against us and we take it to heart. Our feelings are hurt because we feel the wrong was done intentionally. “Don’t give them too much credit,” my wife always says. The truth is that others usually are not out to get us. It just seems that way when we take it personally. God knows our righteousness and he knows our goodness.

The cross (Wednesday, August 29)

Even before Jesus was taken to Pontius Pilate, he was beaten in the temple courtyard. The chief priests stood by as an angry mob seized Jesus. “Some began to spit at him,” writes Mark. “They blindfolded him, struck him with their fists, and said, ‘Prophesy!’ And the guards took him and beat him.”

Still, the worst was yet to come. Jesus realized it was now his time and he understood what he would endure. The pain and suffering of being crucified – the complete decay and destruction of his physical body – would have to occur before his soul could be raised triumphantly in eternity. He knew it all, yet he willing to give up his life for ours.

The question we should ponder today is whether we are now willing to sacrifice our lives for him.

Use it or misuse it (Tuesday, August 28) 

From what we have to what we have been given, everything has a specific purpose. Phones, for example, allow us to communicate with one another, microwaves cook our food and televisions entertain us. We would never think about using any one of these devices for a different reason. The gifts from God are the same; each one has a particular purpose. Yet we try to use them for our own designs.

First, we have love. We have been shown how to use it. Jesus taught us how to love one another. Somehow, we take love and keep it for ourselves. We love material objects rather than human beings. We love cars, money, houses and vacations more than the ones who live next door. Similarly, we have hope. But we use our hope to look forward to what we want in life rather than what awaits us in heaven someday. We also possess persistence. We use it by being stubborn or holding grudges instead of fighting for the kingdom.

There are many other blessings given to us by God: understanding, faith and forgiveness, to name a few. Unfortunately, we misuse each one. We understand only what we want; we put more faith in people than in our Father; and we want God to forgive us without our forgiveness of others.

The question we must contemplate, on a regular basis, is whether we are doing what we are supposed to do with what we have been given. God gave freely to us in order that we would give freely as well. Each separate blessing is a gift from him; we either use it or misuse it.

Waiting for change (Monday, August 27)

When will God do something in my life, a friend asked. I know God is there and that he is watching me go through all of this, he said, yet I don’t understand why he isn’t doing anything. When will things change?

The more I pondered his question, the more I realized the dilemma that faces us daily. We always want to know when our present trial will end, when we will be finished with this set of problems, when our difficulties and troubles will cease. We allow the past to haunt us, the present to confuse us and the future to threaten us. We can take a bad situation and make it even worse. Without much persuasion, we can easily convince ourselves there is no hope at all.

We would be much better off to forget our feelings and regrets, to realize that we are wasting time by taking time to worry. All of our anxiety will never change a thing, especially the individual plan that God set in place long before our birth. Everything must go according to his will or it will not happen. That fact should be our comfort whenever we think about our plight.

God is with us on the journey he has made for each one of us. Having him next to us is more important than anything else. Without him we have no future, no matter how many “good” changes seem to take place in our lives. The goodness of his presence alone is better than any blessing the world can offer.

The good news (Sunday, August 26)

Our task is to tell others how to repair the brokenness in their lives. Jesus came to restore our relationship with the Father. Now it is up to us to lead others toward that reconciliation – to tell them they can have hope for the future and that they do not have to live in despair.

The world is desperate for the message of salvation. If only we will take the time to share what we know, we will see lives changed before our very eyes: the poor will become rich, the homeless will have shelter, the sick will be healed and the lost will be found. People will discover the hidden purpose and meaning of their lives. No longer will they have to look to those around them to find joy and satisfaction; they will have the peace and comfort of the Father within them at all times.

Sometimes you and I take for granted all that God has done in our lives: the many times our health has been restored, our finances have been repaired, our prayers have been answered, our emptiness has been replaced and our losses have been returned.

What God has done for us, he wants to do for others. Incredibly, he can use our brokenness to show the power of his word. But the world will never understand until we tell them the “good news.”

Forgiving (Saturday, August 25)

Looking at my life – my failures and mistakes – allows me to be more tolerant of others. By acknowledging my shortcomings, I am able to accept my neighbor and to realize that we are very much alike.

But as much as I see my faults in those around me, I frequently do not excuse them as I excuse myself. I judge them without giving any thought whatsoever to the things I have done wrong. I dismiss my anger, my impatience and my abruptness. I convince myself that I have good reason to act in a certain way; I am not as forgiving of my family and friends, or even strangers for that matter. That person should know better, I think to myself.

You and I can find it much easier to blame the world than to admit our own sins and weaknesses. Each day I use the wrong words, think the wrong thoughts and commit the wrong deeds. I know that God forgives me. Even so, I am not willing to extend the same kind of mercy and grace to my sisters and brothers. At such times, how far the words of the Lord’s Prayer are from my heart: to forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us.

If I want to be forgiven for what I do, I must forgive others for what they do. I need to make the first move to accept people just the way God accepts me – faults and all. What happens in the end is all up to me.

Lighting the way (Friday, August 24)

What people do or say often surprises us, especially when it goes against what we might imagine from a fellow believer. We may become offended or upset by someone’s unexpected actions and words. But before we judge too harshly, we have to consider our reaction. Are we considerate and forgiving? Or do we respond in kind, exhibiting the same sort of behavior we have witnessed?

We need to remember that we are not created to be mirrors, reflecting images of the world. We are made to be lights – beacons of hope that shine bright even in the darkest of circumstances. Jesus told us to turn away, to turn the other cheek, whenever we are attacked. We can never overcome evil with evil. But we can overcome wickedness by goodness. Nothing can hide the pure light of God that shines through us unless we bury it.

The power to choose is up to us. We can decide to be mirrors or lights. One imitates. The other outshines. It all depends on the source. A mirror can only reflect what is in front of it. But a light can remove the darkness and change everything it touches.

A temporary trial (Thursday, August 23)

If Jesus is the vine and we are the branches, what happens sometimes when we don’t feel like a branch? Maybe we feel cut off from God. Perhaps we are not producing as much fruit for the kingdom as we want. What can we do to become vital and alive again?

The answer is to close your eyes and look at God – with the insight you have in your heart. You know he cares for you. You know he loves you. You know he watches over you. Concentrate on what he is doing in your life and block out everything else that is rushing at you. Even though you are tempted to become angry or upset if things don’t go your way, push those thoughts away and meditate only on God’s will.

His plan is perfect. God is slowly but surely turning everything around, in spite of how you feel right now. Romans 8:30 says, “And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified.” What Paul means is that God chose us. Then he gave us a purpose and a call. As we follow his will for us, we become justified (and saved) through our faith in him. The result is that we are “glorified” by him both now and forever.

The bottom line is that God has chosen you, placed a calling on your life and has already granted you eternal life. Right now you are in the middle; you are going through the process of living out your calling. It is not easy, I know. But I also know that God is with you at this moment. Do you know that David spent years struggling in the wilderness between the time he killed Goliath and when he became king? He was living out his calling just as you are now. Keep moving forward with the knowledge that God will take you safely through this temporary trial.

Not fearing fear (Wednesday, August 22)

Adverse situations create anxiety and fear in our minds if we are not firmly fixed on who God is and what he can do. Fear comes to us naturally, but it does not come from God. His nature is peace, comfort, calm and confidence – everything that we are not.

God never promises that we will live free from all fear. He does promise, however, that he will enable us to overcome all feelings of worry, concern and even panic. The apostle Paul reminds us, in his letter to the Romans, of the tremendous power we possess through God: “For you did not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again to fear, but you received the Spirit of sonship; and by him we cry ‘Abba, Father’” (Romans 8:15).

We belong to God. We are his children, his very daughters and sons. We have the right to call on him during times of great stress and confusion. As we do, we need to place our complete faith in him to bring about his good in each and every circumstance in our lives. And whenever we are tempted by fear, we need to turn away and turn to God. We cannot allow ourselves to be slaves to human emotion at the cost of losing our “sonship” in Christ.

In receiving God into our lives, we also received his spirit and nature. But, it is up to us whether we accept our freedom or not.

What we produce (Tuesday, August 21)

Bearing fruit for the kingdom is not simply being busy for God. Nor does it mean bringing soul after soul into the kingdom. We must bear the marks of a good and faithful servant more than anything else.

Kindness. Gentleness. Helpfulness. Graciousness. All of these determine the fruit we produce. Do those who meet us and know us want to be imitators of us just as we are imitators of Christ? Or, do our words and actions merely look good from the outside when, in fact, our hearts are hardened and stale.

You and I can only bear the right kind of fruit if we are connected to the true tree. I am the vine, Jesus said, and you are the branches. To be productive, God’s love and compassion must be living and growing in us, so much so that he is one who produces the fruit that we bear.

Are we fit? (Monday, August 20)

Many organizations use the word “fit” when interviewing prospective candidates. They want new employees to fit into the scheme of things and to be like the many others who already work there.

Being fit for the kingdom of heaven is much different than being fit for a company or business. When it comes to God, we do not have to worry about fitting in and being accepted by everyone else. The only one we need to please is God. He alone decides whether we are fit for service.

He gives each one of us a different role to play. No two are the same. To God, it is more important that we fit together to complete his divine will than if we fit in with everyone. Chances are, if we are doing his will here on earth, we will not fit in. We will seem out of place and even unfit.

What the world thinks should not matter as long as we fit the mold God has in mind for us.

Born again (Sunday, August 19)

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.

Wisdom from above (Saturday, August 18)

How easy to overlook the wisdom of Jesus as he traveled from town to town. It is understandable that Jesus healed the leper who once came to him. “Lord, if you are willing, you can make me clean,” the leper said to him (Matthew 8:2). “I am willing,” Jesus said. “Be clean!” And it was done.

But the next words of Jesus must have truly puzzled the man. Despite the excitement and joy this healed leper felt, Jesus turned to him and said, “See that you don’t tell anyone. But go and show yourself to the priest . . . as a testimony to them.” One can only wonder what the man thought. Now completely cured from a fatal and painful disease, he is to keep quiet and go directly to the temple.

The Lord knew exactly what he was saying. He did not want others to hear about the miracle and then rush to him to be cured as well. Jesus came to offer much more than healing alone. Also, he wanted those in the temple to recognize and understand that he was the son of God that prophecy described. He had come to fulfill the law and give salvation to all.

Let us think about the things that Jesus said and did during his brief time here on earth. May we start to glimpse the meaning of true heavenly wisdom today and learn to rely more on him than we do ourselves.

Casting stones (Friday, August 17)

Many people watched Jesus as he went from town to town. They observed his every move closely. The religious leaders even kept a close eye on his disciples.

But these watchers were looking for the wrong things. They did not delight in the healings, marvel at the teachings or find comfort in the forgiving. Rather than being grateful and amazed at what Jesus was able to do, they became angry and upset. They found pleasure in condemning him for healing on the Sabbath, for pardoning sins, for feeding the poor, for giving hope to the hopeless and for eating with outcasts. They saw what they wanted to see in him. They saw what they did not like and judged him.

We are not so different today, are we? We look at certain individuals or particular races and we decide what we want. Our verdict in many cases has little to do with the good, and everything to do with the bad. You and I focus on what we think others are doing wrong rather than on what they are doing right.

The next time we jump to conclusions about someone, may we hear these 12 words of Jesus ringing loudly in our ears: “Let he who is without sin among you cast the first stone” (John 8:7). Simply drop your stone of judgment on the ground and walk away. The person you want to condemn is no worse than you.

The second command (Thursday, August 16)

We understand the first and greatest command: to love God with all of our heart and mind. What we don’t always get is the second command: to love our neighbors as ourselves.

What Jesus wants us to do is to treat others as we treat ourselves. Do we accept everyone in our community? Do we show respect and dignity? Perhaps we keep our distance because some people are not like us. Maybe their skin is a different color, their accent is strange, their clothing is unusual or their sexual preference is atypical.

All of these disparities should not make any difference. What should matter above all else is that we love each person, regarding every individual with the same regard we have for ourselves. We are all creatures of a kind and gracious God, and we need to act like it!

I remember when my six-year-old granddaughter saw a tall man in a white robe and black turban on her first visit to New York City. He was getting on the hotel elevator to go up to his room, too. He noticed her staring at him. “Ah,” he said in a thick Middle Eastern accent, “she sees something different.” He was talking about his wardrobe and dark skin, of course. That is the point. These two things made him appear quite different. Deep down he was the same as the rest of us on the elevator that day. As our neighbor, we should not have any difficulty loving him as we do ourselves; that is, if we take Jesus’ words to heart.

Under control (Wednesday, August 15)

The odd thing about accepting Jesus as Lord and Savior is the freedom that comes from letting him govern our lives. When we follow him, we are immediately set free from everything in this world that tries to control us.

We often take our freedom for granted. I am not speaking about being residents of a certain country. I mean the spiritual freedom that liberates us to live as citizens of heaven.

Think for a moment about all of the physical elements that actually dictate how we act. When was the last time your temper got the best of you? Have you recently said something you later regretted? Can you say in all truth and honesty that you never get angry? Each one of these emotions has the power to dictate what we do.

But by giving ourselves to Jesus, we receive a new life. He does not rule us as the world does. Instead, his dominion over us places us under his care. There we can enjoy the life he offers – a life without the trappings of our human nature. When we are able to set aside our instincts and behavior, we allow ourselves to live under the control of God's heavenly nature.

With him (Tuesday, August 14)

All of us have handicaps. These might be visible, but they also may be deeply hidden. We know we have them and we must face them each day. The good news is that we do not deal with them alone.

Paul had some sort of thorn in the flesh (2 Corinthians 12:7). He never revealed his problem to the world, yet he prayed earnestly for the Lord to heal him. The healing he sought never came. Still, he continued to serve the Lord. Peter, too, had a handicap; he was always impetuous, ready to react at the first sign of trouble. Then there was Thomas who doubted even Jesus. We are no different today. Our handicaps keep us from many things. Most importantly, from moving forward in our lives and making the most out of what we have been given.

In some sports, individuals have a handicap, a special number that evens the playing field. It makes up for our lack of ability and allows us to compete with those who may have better skills. When it comes to God, we have more than what we need to do anything. In the name of Jesus, we can heal, prosper, succeed, and overcome. There is nothing that can hold us back from accomplishing the Lord’s will, both for us and for others.

Yes, we may have handicaps—those physical or mental impairments that hinder us—but we also have God’s handicapping, his divine ability, to give us complete success. With him, we cannot fail. Without him, we cannot win.

The reality of God’s spirit (Monday, August 13)

The mystery of the Holy Spirit—how God works in supernatural ways—is not as hard to accept as we make it out to be. True, we do not see God or the things he is doing. That does not mean he is not there or that he has left us on our own.

We possess the capacity to believe in God’s constant presence and guidance, in spite of what we cannot see. For example, we often reflect on our memories (both good and bad). These experiences exist within the mind, but give us the illusion that they are real; we think they are occurring right in front of us.

As a result, the present moment is affected by what we no longer experience with our eyes. The past is gone, yet it takes shape once again in images, sounds and smells. These sensations are as authentic as physical reality.

In the same way, God is no less real because he is not visible. We make the mistake of always trying to look for him with our eyes only. We should seek him with our heart as well. When we do, our mind will show us all he is doing, even though it will not be seen by the rest of the world.

Trusting the way (Sunday, August 12)

Each day requires more trust than the last. Like being on a long journey, there is always a tendency to wonder if we are indeed headed in the right direction. When we travel, we rely on a map. For our life, the one sure way to know we are on the proper path is to trust God’s word.

He explains he will take care of us, that he will protect us and guide us. The Bible offers promise after promise from God, yet we often doubt because the signs all around us tell us something different. We find ourselves experiencing difficulty when God assures us we will have his peace. Or we encounter trouble when God says we will have tranquility.

We fail to understand what God means. We think in real terms while God is speaking spiritually. Like looking at a map, we need to know how to interpret the symbols and signs. The key to comprehending God is in realizing that he is giving us much more than something physical. He offers a greater gift than what is quickly forgotten tomorrow. He gives us what is lasting and eternal.

Though we may want the things of this world, what we need are the things of heaven. The only way to receive them, though, is through trust.

Moving with God (Saturday, August 11)

From the window next to my writing desk, I watched a new family move into the house behind us. For two entire days, they carried in beds, dressers, tables, chairs, couches and box after box, including one with a state-of-the-art television. A young boy cut the grass for the first time as his parents brought out the empty containers that once were full and heavy with the family’s treasures. Everyone in the household moved quickly to settle in and become a part of the neighborhood.

All of this made me think about serving God. When we move, we take everything we own with us and then spend days and weeks preparing our new home. But when we move with God, we are always equipped. We do not have to take any time at all getting ready to tell about the good news of salvation or to help someone who is struggling. God has prepared our way in advance.

He knows what we can and cannot do even if we doubt ourselves. He will give us the right words to say although they may sound awkward and clumsy to us. What we need to do is learn to rely on him, on his judgment and on his Holy Spirit. God also will show us what needs to be done, no matter the task or the work. All we need to do is to trust him when the moment is right.

When we move, we take all of the physical things we have on the journey. When God moves, he does so through the Spirit. His burden is light and his yoke is easy. With him, we do not have to strain ourselves with heavy loads or boxes full of our belongings. All we have to do is share what we already know about him: his love, his grace and his guidance. These things do not weigh us down at all; in fact, they lift us and empower us to do his will at any time and any place. 

One way (Friday, August 10)

God’s plan for our lives is simply that: a plan. He knows what he has planned and created for us, but we have the choice whether to follow his will or ours. We can easily be distracted and go off in the wrong direction because of how we feel or how we think. Satan knows our weaknesses and he will always attack us there, especially when it comes to making decisions. The devil whispers in our ear, just as he did with Adam and Eve, and convinces us that we are like God.

Looking back on our lives, we can all remember times when we made a wrong turn. Maybe it was in our finances, our job or our relationship with others. It only takes a second for us to become lost and to forget our true purpose in life. The lesson of our past is that we need to go to God before we do anything or take any action. Before we begin our day, write an email, call someone on the phone, visit a neighbor or even go to the store, we must pray.

God is in all things, not just those times when we have to endure trials and tragedies. God did not make the universe, for example, and then walk away. He took great delight and pleasure in creating even the smallest of things – those barely visible to the eye. He made each blade of grass, every grain of sand and all the hairs on our head.

He has numbered each of our days and he knows what will happen to us even before it occurs. Why, then, do we try to take off on our own? Everything we do is important to God because he created everything we are. He knows what is best for us. He will tell us, but only if we take the time to ask him first, before we take one step.

Eternal will (Thursday, August 9)

There must be those occasions when God looks down and shakes his head in disappointment. He has chosen us and shown us how to love one another. He has demonstrated how we should act. He has told us over and over again through Scripture what to do with our lives. He sent his Son to live among us and even die for us. Yet, we still don’t get it. We continue to act according to our feelings and desires, almost as if God did not exist.

No matter if we are guilty of forgetting about God or if we are the victim of worldly attacks, God sees what is going on. He does not turn a blind eye to what his people are doing. Nor does he ignore our individual cries for help. He is there in every circumstance, and he is always bringing about his will in spite of what occurs here on earth.

In time, in his time, God will judge those who disobey. He also will reward those who are faithful. We may have to wait years – much like Moses, Joseph or Habakkuk – to see what God is doing. But it will come. His purpose will be revealed to all, just as surely as the morning’s light follows the darkness of night and the sun comes after the storm.

God never fails. He observes every thought, every action and every intent that happens every day. Nothing escapes his omniscience. So, too, nothing escapes his omnipotence. God will always have the last and final word in each situation. And his will is forever, for all eternity. Not just for today.

Standing up (Wednesday, August 8)

Many times I am guilty of trying to save the world. I want to tell others what to do and how to live their lives. I find myself wanting to do all sorts of things as I go through the day. I want to tell people how to drive, how to change their lives, how to find happiness, how to be successful, how to manage their time, how to act, how to dress, how to look. And so on. I even think about how the Church needs to change and what we, as Christians, should be doing to further the kingdom here on earth.

Now there is nothing wrong with having a desire, a heart, for change. But it is God who is in charge; he must bring about the change. I cannot control any of the circumstances around me. All I can do is to change myself. If I can focus on his will for my life, two things will happen. First, God will begin to change me. Second, God will take care of the things that need to be corrected both in others and in the world.

But there is, I think, another important element in the equation. I must be willing to pray without ceasing and to stand. Both are essential. I need to turn everything over to God and I need to take a stand for him. To do anything less is going only halfway. For what can God accomplish, through me or anyone else, if we pray but are not willing to follow his way? The apostle Paul emphasized that after we have done all we can, through prayer and individual works, we must continue to stand up for God’s righteousness. We must not allow hatred, greed, covetousness, contempt, jealousy, misunderstanding, pride or anything else to tear down the body of Christ.

Jesus came so that we would have life and have it more abundantly. There is a cost, though, that we must pay. We must be willing to let God take charge and, at the same time, defend his laws and principles. When we do, we will not always be popular or even accepted by those around us. In fact, we may even be rejected. But, the reward is we will be able to know the greater life that rises above everything else on earth.

Constant praise (Tuesday, August 7)

Everything we do is worship. We worship as we rise in the morning and think about God. We worship as we prepare breakfast. We worship as we go about our daily routine. We worship as we relax in the evening. We worship as we go to bed at night.

Our entire life consists of individual acts of worship. We do not have to be in a sanctuary on Sunday morning in order to praise God and offer thanks to him. All through the week, in whatever we do, we can show our love and devotion to God. Being grateful for the food we have to eat or being thankful for a beautiful house are the same. God does not weigh our appreciation based on size or value. We worship him when we give thanks for a glass of water or a brand new car.

Often, though, our enthusiasm and passion depend on what we have received. We tend to be more excited over something grand than in something simple. The level of our excitement and thanks frequently depends on cost of the gift. God does not see it this way.

Jesus said we can only be faithful in the big things if we are faithful in the small things. Clearly, what is most important to God is whether we worship him and give thanks to him. If we have this perspective, then our lives will take on new meaning. We will no longer depend on our great hopes and desires in order to show our love and appreciation to God. Instead, we will be thankful and content in all things. At all times, his praise will continually be in our hearts and mouths.

He knows the way (Monday, August 6)

When God makes a way, we may not always move forward with confidence and assurance. We tend to doubt what will happen next, even though we know God will protect us.

God showed the Israelites which way to go when he brought them out of bondage. Still, at times, they thought they were going to die in the desert. When they were being pursued by Pharaoh’s army, God again showed them which way to go. He parted the Red Sea and held back the waters. As they crossed, they must have wondered if they were going to drown. When God at last showed them the Promised Land, they were afraid to go in.

We are no different than the Israelites. Even when God leads us in the right direction – both by closing the door behind us and freeing us to move forward – we are full of doubt, fear and confusion. Sometimes we feel lost because we do not know what is out there or what we will face in the days and weeks ahead. We want to know the outcome, the future, even before we go through the desert, through the Red Sea or into the Promised Land.

God says “Trust me, and I will take care of you.” But we do not hear him because we keep asking, over and over again, “Where are we going and what are you doing to us?” Our faith should be built on trust in God’s way. He knows the future because he created it. He certainly knows what is best for us.

What we notice (Sunday, August 5)

Today is a day full of miracles. Yet, many of them will go unseen and unnoticed; they will be taken for granted, lost in the activity of daily life. We will never see God’s incredible works if we are not looking in the right direction. Like traveling the same roads each day, or following our normal routine, we become used to the familiar. We observe and experience nothing different because we are not expecting anything new.

I go the same way to work all of the time. I long for a change, but I am comfortable with a certain path. I know each intersection and each stop sign. I pass the same houses, the same buildings, the same stores, the same schools and the same gas stations. It seems nothing has changed in years, not even the trees along the road. But each moment, everything around me is changing, whether I notice or not. What is not any different is my outlook. I do not observe anything out of the ordinary because I have chosen to ignore all but the usual.

My prayer must always be for God to open my mind and heart – to discover what he is doing right now, right in front of me. I desperately need his help to uncover what I have not seen before. How often do I pass through the same neighborhoods until one day I finally notice something that has been there all along? I see a house without shutters, an empty storefront or a street sign right next to the road.

God’s miracles are all around. He reveals himself everywhere, in a new way, if we take the time to seek him. It is up to us to open our eyes and not go blindly through this day.

Time or tasks? (Saturday, August 4)

A unique and wonderful privilege awaits us each morning. God gives us the gift of this day. It is up to us to decide, however, how we will use this precious present. We have to determine what to do with what Our Father has given us. We will not have a chance to go back and change what we do this day. Once evening comes and it is time to rest, we will either look back on the hours with satisfaction or regret. The question in our minds must always be: Is God pleased with what I did today?

The number of minutes in a day is the same for each person on earth. No one is given more time than another. Some people will be more productive than others, yet all are limited by 24 hours. Frequently, we complain that we do not have enough time to accomplish everything on our list. Perhaps we are focusing on the wrong issue – the element of time – instead of the tasks at hand. Which one is more important to us: time or tasks?

In our humanness, we sometimes think that the more we do the better. We are happy if we finish everything on our schedule for the day. We can easily forget that God does not share our worldly perspective. He looks at what we do from the standpoint of eternity. We are reminded of the woman who gave two small coins. Her meager gift was nothing compared to the lavish offerings of silver and gold that others were bringing. But she gave more than anyone else, Jesus said, because she gave everything she owned.

An even greater example is the life of Jesus. In less than three years, he changed the world forever. After 2,000 years, billions of people throughout the ages have been influenced and impacted because of what Jesus did during his short time on earth. Likewise, what we do today matters. The tasks we undertake are more important than the time in which we have to do them. How we value the gift of this day will be seen by what we do, not by how much we do.

Proving God (Friday, August 3)

One of the primary purposes of our time on earth is to share our life with others. God put us here to help one another, yet many times we simply want to be left alone. We desire to enjoy quiet lives, away from the noise of daily conflict and difficulty. We seek to escape, to find a place where we can have peace and solitude. Time spent in prayer and meditation is good, for it is the foundation of our day. But time spent serving others is better because it allows us to put our faith into action.

Jesus is our great example. He taught of love and preached about the kingdom of heaven. Yet, he also healed the blind, cured the lame, ate with sinners, touched the lepers, raised the dead, fed the poor and cast out demons. Jesus did more than talk about the grace of God; he demonstrated the Father’s love and care to the world.

As followers of Christ – for we are called Christians – we need to show how God changes lives. Through our actions, our conduct, our words, we serve in the kingdom by serving others.

During this day, devote some of your time to helping someone else. Invest in what you cannot comprehend or understand right now. In the long run, because you are serving a God of miracles and greatness, you will see that you get more in return than you can ever give away!

Casting judgment (Thursday, August 2)

The right to judge is not ours. It is God’s alone. Even when we have been harmed by others, we still do not have the privilege to condemn them. Jesus never sentenced his accusers. To the end, his life reflected what he said on the cross: “Father, forgive them for they know not what they do” (Luke 23:24).

Despite being tormented and taunted for years, let alone what was done to him on Calvary, Jesus resisted the temptation to judge. “As for the person who hears my words but does not keep them,” he said, “I do not judge him. For I did not come to judge the world, but to save it” (John 12:47).

It is easy to judge the world. All we have to do is look around us and think about certain people or specific incidents. There are many I would have liked to condemn through the years and I know many could have condemned me as well. I have had my share of sins and so have they. Still, Jesus did not have the power to judge and neither do we. To do so, in any situation, means we think more of ourselves than of Jesus.

Our purpose, like that of our master, is to save people. We will not be popular and we will face extreme opposition. The world hated Jesus and it will hate us, too. The Father will decide what to do on that final day when all will be judged, including you and me.

Overcoming all anxiety (Wednesday, August 1)

Knowing the truth about who we are in Christ sets us free from being held captive by the world. Everything changes as we come to realize we have been given the gift of eternal life. Suddenly, we are released from all doubt, worry, and anxiety. The things of this mortal life lose their power and sway over us because they no longer matter.

Our nature takes on a new perspective as we understand what it means to live forever with God. What sense, therefore, is there in worrying about each incident or problem? Why are we always so anxious over a job, money, friendships, or the future? We know where we are headed. This knowledge alone should cancel any worry that might threaten our joy.

During times of great turmoil in our lives we need to look past the moment. We must think and live beyond the disturbances and tribulations. Our sight must be firmly fixed on what awaits us at the end of this earthly journey, not on what is in front of us right now.

No matter what our emotions may try to tell us, God tells us the truth. He declares to us over and over again that we have been set free. By God’s authority and sovereignty, we no longer have to be controlled by common, everyday feelings. We have his word that he will help us to become overcomers of the world.

Doing our job (Tuesday, July 31)

I am no good to God the way I am. He cannot use me if I am resentful, if I am angry, if I am anxious, or if I am upset. He can use me only when I conform to what he wants.

The principle is simple. I am able to serve God if I am willing to accept his will. This is not much different than what we do each day in the world. We work for someone or some company and we must do what is expected of us. If we strike out on our own, following our own agenda and ideas, chances are we will be let go. We are of little use to the people and the company we serve if we do not live up to our responsibilities.

As Christians, there are certain duties that God demands of us. We are to love our enemies, pray for those who attack us, reach out to people who push us away, forgive sisters and brothers who hurt us. If we do not, we cannot serve God in the way he expects. Simply put, we are not doing our job; we are not whom we profess to be and God knows it.

He has every right to let us go and find someone else to do our work. Instead, he forgives us and gives us another chance. Maybe it is high time we think more deeply about God’s grace—how he gives us a second chance hundreds of times. He has a particular job for us. To him we are irreplaceable. Let us remember that the next time we want to do his work our way.

God is in his heaven and with us (Monday, July 30)

We are seldom moved, or even give thought to, the many things that go right each day. Millions of people will travel by plane today and arrive safely. Others will go by car, bus, or train without incident. Patients all over the world will be cured of disease and illness. So, too, the homeless will find a place to rest and the hungry will receive food. Thousands of children will be born healthy and well. Countless lives will be turned over to Jesus.

What we tend to notice or think about most are not all of these. What we see are the small problems here and there, those things that make us question our faith. We are tested each time we are touched by our own suffering or that of others. We wonder about death and destruction whenever storms occur. We want to know why God allows terrible pain, and where he is in the middle of a crisis.

But God does not move in and out of our lives on a whim. He is not with us one moment during joy and then far away the next when we encounter difficulty. God is ever-present, and his presence is all around us. All we need do is to look at all of the good he provides each minute.

Yes, there are many difficulties in the world. But instead of wearing ourselves thin by the weight of daily disappointments, we need to pay more attention to the goodness and beauty that do exist. God’s hand and mercy are everywhere. Billions of people will experience his love and mercy today, even though they may not know it. They will go about their business without interruption or difficulty—all because God cares for each one of them.

When we are tempted to think that all is hopeless, it is time for us to pause and remember the great hope we have through Jesus. The proof that he is with us always (and in all ways) is evident in everything that will go right today.

Different and alike (Sunday, July 29)

You and I belong to a diverse body of servants. We are all unique. We are each special. We work in various places, in different occupations, doing all kinds of things. Each one of us has a distinct purpose and gift. We were all made by the same Father to be individual, yet only in our oneness and unity are we able to experience the full beauty of his world.

As we look around, realizing our separate abilities, we begin to realize the true greatness of the one who created us. No two of us are exactly alike, from our appearance to our clothes, our vocation, our thoughts, our ideas or our background. Sometimes our perspective on similar situations is different. We can see one incident or go through the same circumstance and still have two separate stories to tell.

Despite our unique characteristics and features, though, we are children of the same God. We have the same Father, the same Creator. The same Holy Spirit flows in each of us, and the same Jesus guides us.

When we come together as one body, the more fully we can appreciate the complex nature and love of God. He is the same; he is never-changing. Still, he manifests himself in multiple ways through each one of us. Even though we are unlike one another, we are alike in him. That is the beauty of our difference.

Our debts (Saturday, July 28)

The depth of our love for Jesus can be seen in our thanksgiving. The more we realize how much he has done for us, the greater our gratitude. All of our many sins were removed by his one sacrifice on the cross, and our love for him grows in direct proportion to what his death means to us personally.

Jesus tells the story of two men who owed money: one had a debt of more than a year’s worth of daily wages, and the other a debt of only 50 days of wages. Neither one could repay the money so the lender removed both debts. Which one, Jesus asked Peter, would be more grateful? Which one will love the lender more? “I suppose the one who had the bigger debt canceled,” Peter replied (Luke 7:43).

How large is our debt to Jesus? We owe him for his life and ours, but we owe him for so much more. He has taken away our entire debt—the sins, large and small, that we can never repay. We could not even return all we are given in one day, let alone an entire life of 60, 70, 80, or 90 years.

We do not need to add up all our debts, as if we are keeping score. All we need to do is to be more grateful when we remember his death for us. The more we think of him, the more we will love him.

Enjoying more with less (Friday, July 27)

What do we want more than anything else: good health, a better job, more money, or a larger house? Most of us think in terms of acquiring something rather than getting rid of something. What about having less stress, less worry, less anxiety, and less pressure? These are lasting qualities that can change our lives dramatically.

Jesus came to give us a fuller life. He wants only what is best and good for us. He offers us what will endure, not what will satisfy for the time being. All of what we think we want initially will only make us happy for the moment. Cars, houses, vacations, and even a better job do not last. These pass away as quickly as they came.

We can have more in our lives by having less. We do not need all that the world says is important. The beauty of life is found in simple ways. Certainly peace and comfort do not depend on great wealth or vast resources.

The joy that Jesus offers is available to everyone, both the rich and the poor. It does not matter who we are; all of us can have what he offers. That should be the most important thing. Everything else in life should be second.

Releasing our hurt (Thursday, July 26)

Praying for those who have harmed us in some way requires discipline, obedience and, most of all, love. We must love God enough to do as he asks, not as we feel. Our love toward him must be stronger than any anger we harbor toward others, even someone who has destroyed our career, our credibility, our future. To go forward in our lives, we need to love as God loves.

If I am hurt by a certain individual, for example, my first response is to get even – to seek revenge and retribution. I want this person to experience the same kind of suffering and pain that have been inflicted upon me or my family. My human mind tells me that vengeance will settle the score and I will feel better. But nothing could be farther from the truth, God’s truth.

What will I accomplish when I strike back? Will I level the playing field, so to speak, and regain what I think I have lost? No, never. I cannot change what has happened no matter what I do. I have two choices: I can either spend my time attempting the impossible (to undo the past), or I can use my time and energy in meaningful and productive ways. To do so, though, I must stop looking back and thinking about what might have been.

I need to look ahead with the knowledge that God’s love will right the wrongs that have been committed. Out of love, God will make my way straight. Out of love, God will deal with the wickedness of others. Out of love, I will eventually learn to say with Jesus, “Forgive them for they know not what they do.” When we reach the point where we are able to love “them” as God loves us, then we can forgive. Then we move forward through God’s love, which cancels out any and all desire to wound those who have wounded us.

Reflecting God's light (Wednesday, July 25)

Our words speak the truth of God. Our acts show the love of God. Our hands do the work of God. What a responsibility and privilege we have to serve him. All that we do displays God to the world.

Just as the moon reflects the light of the sun, we as Christians reflect the light of the true Son. People are able to see his mercy, care, kindness and compassion everywhere we go as we live for him.

Because we are chosen by God for his purpose and will, we have an obligation to replicate his likeness. So, too, we have the opportunity to demonstrate God’s greatness. Our face should illustrate the loving face of God by revealing his divine radiance in the darkness.

As we go through each moment, we need to remember that our lives must be turned toward God in order to reflect his light. If we turn away, he is no longer visible. The world will not see all he offers because we are not shining as we should. 

Love one another (Tuesday, July 24)

There is no room for harmful words, hateful thoughts or harsh actions in the life of a believer. Moreover, there is no excuse for any of these. When Paul exhorted the Hebrews to keep on loving one another as brothers and sisters, he was reminding them of the one great commandment. His letter was intended to instill in them that the power of love was superior to anything else on earth.

A person cannot practice love on certain occasions and be angry at other times. It is one or the other. Either we love or we do not. Love and anger cannot exist simultaneously. They are opposites and there is no middle ground between the two. Nor do we have the right to decide whom to love and whom to ignore. God does not grant us that choice. He tells us clearly to love one another – to love everyone, even those who have hurt us.

I might argue that not everyone is lovable, that some people are not as amiable as others. Frankly, the matter has nothing to do with liking someone. I am called to love as God loves. He may not like what I do at times, but still he loves me unconditionally. He loves me in spite of myself or my actions.

As a follower of Christ, I must strive for the same type of love toward others. I must go beyond the remarks and deeds of those around me. I need to look at others as though they are, indeed, my sisters and brothers. They are my family, a part of me, and we are all related. We have the same Father, Savior and Holy Spirit. We were created by the same God and we are all loved in the same way by him. He shares all he has with us and he wants us to share all we have with one another – something only love allows us to do.

Be determined (Monday, July 23)

We spend a great deal of our lives fighting. I do not mean wars and battles. I am talking about ourselves, and how we must constantly push ourselves to go beyond our feelings.

My mother was not a strong woman, physically speaking, but she was a determined woman. Time after time, she would fight her way through illness and fatigue. Her resolve to keep going enabled her to go in and out of the hospital countless times during her last years.

Our will can give us the strength to do things when our bodies fail or deceive us. How many times have you felt down and did nothing about it? Maybe you were sick, tired, worn out, or just plain lazy. Tell someone you are not feeling well and you will feel even worse.

We have the capacity to put all of our faith and trust in the Lord, if we so desire. We can use his great might by totally relying him. “I guide you in the way of wisdom,” says the Lord, “and lead you along straight paths” (Proverbs 4:11). May you take his straight path and stop following your crooked ways. Will yourself to go where he leads. Forget about your feelings once and for all.

Saving or sentencing? (Sunday, July 22)

People need our compassion, not our condemnation. Everywhere in life there are those who commit all kinds of sins. Our attitude toward them needs to be like that of Jesus, who came to earth to save and not to judge.

If the only thing we do is to judge other people for their wrongs, then we are adding to the problem. We are allowing hate and anger to fill our hearts. We become no better than them because we give evil a chance to prosper and grow. God wants nothing to do with it.

Remember the story of Jesus in the garden the night before his crucifixion. Peter boldly tried to defend Jesus by attacking a servant of the high priest and cutting off his ear. But Jesus rebuked him. Even in his darkest hour, Jesus showed love and concern.

If we want to be like Jesus, then we have live like Jesus. We are here to help save others. Not to sentence them.

Wait for him (Saturday, July 21)

Sometimes the best way to handle a situation is for us to do nothing and to let God do everything. He does not need our help when it comes to changing people or circumstances. He is more than able to accomplish anything, if we let him.

No doubt there were many believers who sought to change the ways of Saul. But nothing could compare to what the Lord did in an instant by taking away his sight and speaking to him through the Spirit. Once Saul could see again, he was a new person in Christ. He became Paul the apostle.

God is transforming all sorts of things today. Some involve people. Some involve situations. You and I need to be patient while God does what needs to be done. We have to give him room and time to work. If he needs our help, he will certainly let us know. Until then, we must wait.

Right thinking (Friday, July 20)

We have a natural tendency to focus on the negative aspects in our lives. Even when we are blessed with a loving family, enjoy good health and possess confidence in the future, our thoughts always seem to center on a minor problem or issue. Maybe the matter involves a task we don’t like to perform or a chore that we have been putting off. Perhaps it has to do with something someone said to us or that we said to another person. We could even be angry with ourselves for not being a better Christian.

If we are not careful, we can indeed make mountains out of molehills. Little things can become major obstacles. It is similar to a teacher who has a class of 20 students. All of them are attentive and excellent pupils, except one. One child continuously disrupts the class and refuses to learn. In no time at all, the teacher will suddenly turn her complete attention to the one bad student and forsake the other 19.

We do the same in our daily lives. We forget about the good and concentrate on the bad. Several times each day we have to make a conscious and concerted effort to overlook the negative elements that suddenly appear: getting a flat tire, being stuck in traffic, an appliance that breaks down, a child who spills milk at breakfast. In a few minutes, our entire day can be ruined. Before we throw away the rest of day, we should take another few minutes to re-focus our thoughts.

Look at all God has given to us. When we truly see how much the good in our life outweighs the bad, then these little distractions become nothing more than a rut we step over rather than fall into.

To worry or not (Thursday, July 19)

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 Thursday, but our minds have moved on to Friday, Saturday and Sunday. 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 or 48 hours.

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

Preparing ourselves (Wednesday, July 18)

Today is all before us. God created us for this day and this day for us. As the morning begins, God is already watching over us and greeting us. He is there in the darkness as we arise. He is present as we prepare ourselves for the many things that need to be done. He waits patiently for us to be with him – to spend time in prayer, talking to him and reading his word.

The greatest opportunity we have every day is to be with God during the first moments in the morning. Yes, we can turn to him throughout the hours ahead. But how pleased he must be when we put him first, before anything else. He must delight in our life as we dedicate ourselves daily to his will.

Jesus went to the Father often. Even in the midst of teaching and healing, the Son spent time with his Father. We have the same chance to be with our Father. We can seek his face in the peace and solitude at the beginning of a new day, long before we get caught up in the world’s activities.

Every morning we get our physical bodies ready. Yet, how much time do we spend preparing our hearts and minds? How long do we take to talk with him and to re-commit ourselves to his will? This day does not belong entirely to us. God created this time for us; he planned that we would use it for his glory and completely for his sake. 

Living our beliefs (Tuesday, July 17)

When we say that we believe in the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, we are doing much more than acknowledging their existence. We mean that we actually accept the divinity, authority and eternity of the one triune God. We willingly receive all that he has made, visible and invisible.

We also are confessing that God is our Father and Our King. He is the beginning and the end, the giver and hope of all life. Through faith, we recognize his sovereignty in all things, including the power to heal, restore and comfort. We put our trust in his ways, replacing our will for his.

Letting God take control of our entire being is what belief in the trinity is all about. When we no longer know who we are without God, then we are living an active belief that changes us today, tomorrow and for eternity.

A matter of trust (Monday, July 16)

Your steps and mine are ordered by the Lord. We walk according to his path and plan. We should not be surprised then, not in the least, when we encounter problems.

Satan will attack us time and time again as we take each step. He will throw all kinds of obstacles in our way. Anything that distracts us or keeps us from our ordered movement is his sole objective.

The devil’s machinations are many: getting us to think we are worthless because we have made mistakes; telling us that God does not love us, for if he did, he would help us; making us believe our lives do not matter; saying we are not as good as others; bringing up all of our weaknesses and sins from the past.

These are all lies. They are simply attacks to make us doubt God. But what does God say? “The Lord directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand” (Psalm 37:23-24). Whom are you going to trust today? The one who hates you, or the one who loves you and takes you by the hand?

Greater than gold! (Sunday, July 15)

One thing I have learned – or I should say God has taught me – is that my earthly feelings will always conflict with his heavenly principles. I should realize by now that when I feel ignored by the world, I am loved by my Father. When I feel rejected by those around me, I am accepted unconditionally by him. When I am not preferred by others, I have already been chosen by the King.

Too many of us live today with the pain of isolation and loneliness. We feel disrespected, underappreciated and belittled. The sharpness of our suffering is especially acute when it is caused by those who claim to be faithful followers of Jesus.

Who knows why some people attack us or, worse yet, ignore us. The ways of mankind are far from the ways of God. Most of the time we can understand God a whole lot easier than human beings. At least he never acts out of jealousy or anger or prejudice.

Trying focusing all of your attention on the Lord instead of how you think people view you. Your worth to him is everything, while your value to the world amounts for very little. God says he makes each one of us “more precious than fine gold” (Isaiah 13:12). At the current price of gold, $1,588 per ounce, a person weighing 200 pounds is worth $5,081,600. God says our value is much greater still! Do the math. What are you worth to him?

Release from bondage (Saturday, July 14)

Prayer can offer us deep comfort during times of trouble and crisis. When we pray, we feel close to God; we know that he is listening to our hearts. Sometimes, however, God does not answer our prayers and petitions as we ask. When this happens, prayer can leave us frustrated. Over and over again, we continue to ask God for help. Still, our pain seems to grow worse.

Our finite minds suddenly think God does not care, that he does not love us. We beg, plead, cry, and yet our situation does not change. Often, we feel worse because of the added confusion over God’s purpose for our suffering. “What are you doing, Lord,” we ask. “Don’t you see what we are going through? Please, Father, help us.”

We are human and we want the pain to go away. What we do not understand or see, at least for the moment, is how God is using our present grief to strengthen us for the future. Each minute more that we can endure means we will not be susceptible to the same kind of earthly hurt again.

God is always by our side, teaching us how to overcome such trials. As our loving Father, he is teaching us we are stronger than we think and that having faith in him can help us deal with any temporary pain. Faith lasts for eternity, but physical suffering does not. Once we learn this truth, we will be set free from the bondage of our own pain.

God provides (Friday, July 13)

Giving each one of his disciples the power over evil spirits, Jesus sent the 12 throughout the land. In groups of two – carrying no bread, bags or money – they went from village to village to preach the gospel. With little more than the clothes on their back, they did exactly as the Lord had commanded.

“They drove out many demons and anointed many sick people with oil and healed them” (Mark 6:13). God granted them special favor in spreading the message of repentance; he was the one who provided them with food, water, lodging and open hearts.

The Bible is full of examples that demonstrate God’s protection and help. We need look no further than our Sunday School stories about Noah, Moses, Jonah, David and Daniel for proof. Time and time again, we see that God looks after his children. He shelters them, feeds them and blesses them in ways we cannot explain. Nonetheless, we know we are sustained by his great love.

God continues to send us out into the towns and villages of our part of the world. He wants to use us to reach the lost, the dying, the homeless and the hopeless. He also wants to show us what he can do through us when we allow him to lead the way. Not only will he heal others, and bring them to salvation, but he also will grant us the joy of sharing with him in the process.

Accepting the miracle (Thursday, July 12)

Many people, especially the Pharisees, refused to believe that Jesus healed a man who had been born blind. John explains how even the neighbors of the man claimed it was not really him. “No, he only looks like him,” they said. “I am the man,” he replied. Then the Pharisees proclaimed that Jesus was a sinner because he did not keep the Sabbath. “How can a sinner do such miraculous signs,” they asked.

The Pharisees even questioned the man’s parents, but they could not explain the miracle either. “He is of age; ask him,” the mother and father said. So the Pharisees examined the man a second time. “Give glory to God,” they demanded, not to Jesus. “We know this man is a sinner.” The once-blind man looked at them and said, “Whether he is sinner or not, I don’t know. One thing I do know. I was blind but now I see!”

How often during the day do we question what Jesus is doing in our lives? How many times do we, like the Pharisees, seek an explanation? We need to be more like the man who was healed. We must forget trying to analyze the situation and just accept what Jesus has done for us. All we really need to say is “I was blind but now I see!”
 
Pleasing God (Wednesday, July 11)

Our acts of love toward Jesus are holy and consecrated even though people may not always understand. Often, the world fails to comprehend because our works of kindness and devotion find true meaning only in the pure, eternal light of heaven. Whatever we do for Jesus is never lost, no matter what others might think or say.

The apostle Mark writes of a woman who was harshly criticized when she showed her love and devotion toward Jesus. Mark explains that the woman broke open an alabaster jar and poured expensive perfume on Jesus’ head. Immediately, the disciples complained; they rebuked the woman for her senseless act. “Why this waste of perfume,” they asked indignantly. “It could have been sold for more than a year’s wages and the money given to the poor.”

The woman offered all she had, yet she was condemned. To her, Jesus was more precious than anything she possessed in life; his worth and his life far exceeded even the finest, most fragrant, oil on earth. Jesus alone recognized gift. ”She has done a beautiful thing to me,” he told his followers. “Why are you bothering her?”

Others may not always grasp what we are doing for the Lord. But their lack of understanding or recognition should not keep us from what we know is right. We must follow our hearts, doing whatever is pure and holy in God's sight.

Wholly devoted (Tuesday, July 10)

The journey of our life is not over until we reach the destination. Where we find ourselves right now – going through hardship, experiencing pain or reliving the past – is merely a stop, a temporary interruption, on the way between the past and the future. We will be here for only a while.

Making a commitment to Christ is entering into a covenant, a promise, with God himself. It is no different than the blood covenant he made with us on the cross. He gave himself completely for us and we must, in turn, give ourselves completely to him.

The journey with him continues in little steps: going to Sunday School each week, attending church regularly, serving on a committee, helping with an event. Gradually, we become more involved. We spend more time praying and less time complaining; we find peace and comfort in reading the Bible; we enjoy being in the presence of others who love the Lord; we look for ways to serve him; we reflect on those in need and how we can help.

Eventually, our devotion to Christ becomes a lifestyle, something that is seamless and natural. All that we are is shaped by his example. Our life revolves around him. We say the kinds of things he would say; we do what he would do; we think as he thinks. We gain new sight of the world as well as our purpose and place. We observe not by our human sight, but we begin to see as God sees: through the lens and perspective of eternity. For the first time, we realize there is much more to living than what we feel and touch each day.

A full commitment to God starts in the mind but must always grow in the heart, for that is where he completes the good work he has already begun in us.

We confound the world (Monday, July 9)

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.

Self-sacrifice (Sunday, July 8)

You must be willing to give up all of your crutches if you are serious about serving God. You have to let go of those things that gratify your flesh but do little for the kingdom. You need to quit pleasing yourself by always trying to satisfy others; you must forget about doing only those things that are easy or comfortable; you must cease from judging others; you need to refrain from thinking of yourself more highly than you ought. In short, you must quit being selfish.

Only if you do all these can you really know that God is enough in all situations. You do not have to worry about what you give up. God will come in to fill the empty and anxious spots that are left vacant – the places where you are left most vulnerable.

No one can serve both God and man. As long as you have certain behaviors or attitudes on which you depend, God cannot be fully present in your life. You must give up everything in order to have everything. You must first die to yourself before you can live for God.

Lasting treasure (Saturday, July 7)

We are physical beings in a very physical universe. All around us, tangible property – money, cars, clothes, houses, stocks, boats, pools, home theater systems, jewelry, motorcycles, vacation homes – dominates the cultural landscape. People acquire more as they earn more. Our society goes round and round each day, buying more and accumulating greater wealth.

Jesus warned about being deceived by the world’s many treasures. After 2,000 years, people still are not listening to his words: “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:19-21).

There is nothing wrong with owning a house. The problem begins when the house is three times as large and lavish as what we need. Owning a car is fine, but buying dozens of antique vehicles to admire their beauty is another matter. Having a television is okay, too, but do we really need a $10,000 home theater system? Jesus was deeply concerned that such objects could easily capture all of our time and attention. As a result, we would be distracted from the true meaning of life: the spiritual treasures of heaven that can never be destroyed.

Money, houses, cars – all material objects – can be destroyed or stolen. The possessions of this world do not last. But the spiritual virtues we cultivate are stored up in heaven for all eternity; they will never rust, be destroyed or taken away. Thinking more about the lasting treasures of the spirit, and less about the transient things of life, will give us a right and proper perspective. We need to be able to place both our hearts and lives in the treasure house of God’s kingdom.

For him (Friday, July 6)

The rewards of our earthly labors are little compared to the great wealth and beauty that God has for us. Yet, so often we work to gain the world’s gifts and recognition. We use our strength in vain and waste our days on things that do not last. We concern ourselves with the here and now instead of the everlasting and eternal.

How easy it is to forget we were called by God long before all that we see around us. Before our birth, the Lord knew our name and fashioned our lives. He saw what would happen in each and every situation. He knew the plans he had to keep us safe and to protect us from harm.

Even though our life and our future are guided by him, we look for man’s approval. We will never find what we are seeking, though, because we were created to serve God, not the world. Our purpose is in him; therefore, our reward is in him as well.

Isaiah 49 reminds us that what is due us is in the Lord’s hand. There, too, is where we find all the greatness we will ever need in life. We exist for his glory alone. Not for ourselves. 

Pray for his way (Thursday, July 5)

Sometimes the best way to handle a situation is for us to do nothing and to let God do everything. He does not need our help when it comes to changing people or circumstances. He is more than able to accomplish anything, if we let him.

No doubt there were many believers who sought to change the ways of Saul. But nothing could compare to what the Lord did in an instant by taking away his sight and speaking to him through the Spirit. Once Saul could see again, he was a new person in Christ. He became Paul the apostle.

God is transforming all sorts of things today. Some involve people. Some involve situations. You and I need to be patient while God does what needs to be done. We have to give him room and time to work. If he needs our help, he will certainly let us know. Until then, we must wait.

If we feel the urge to do something, let us pray – pray earnestly and fervently for his divine will to be done.

Your day of independence (Wednesday, July 4)

On the Fourth of July, people all over the United States celebrate Independence Day. There are cookouts, fireworks, parades and even parties in honor of freedom. But what about our real Independence Day, that personal day when we were set free from the bondage of sin? What about the day when we accepted Christ as our Lord and Savior?

Most of us can probably remember where we were, if not the exact date and time. For me, it was at a Youth for Christ rally in downtown Cleveland, Ohio. I believe it was 1965, when I was 15 years old. The memory remains vivid and clear. I left my seat in the huge auditorium and walked up on stage. There, along with dozens of others, I asked Christ to forgive my sins and I committed the rest of my life to him.

The past 40-plus years of my life have been full of ups and downs; I was “up” when I remembered what Jesus could do and I was “down” when I tried to live on my own. Too often I forgot about my true Independence Day. Many times I became overwhelmed by everything going on around me and stopped thinking about who was living inside of me.

Each one of us has an Independence Day. Every moment of our lives should be a celebration as we rejoice in what God has given us through his Son. We have been set free, not only for this one day but forever.

Keeping us safe (Tuesday, July 3)

The act of communing with God is a holy rite. It should be treated with dignity, honor and humility. It should not be something that we take for granted. God, in his infinite power and wisdom, grants us the gift of being able to converse with him at any time of the day or night. We must not take that privilege lightly.

Whenever we go to him in prayer, let us take our concerns, questions and cares. But let us not forget to listen. What can we expect if we merely pour out our hearts to him and do not wait to hear him speak to us?

A person once said to me that God always answers our prayers. He says yes. He says no. Or he says wait. Most often the reason we say we do not hear from God is for one of two reasons: because we have not taken the time to listen or because he gives us an answer we do not want to accept.

Either way, we must trust him to know what is best for us. If he merely gives us what we want at the moment, he would not be the kind of Father who protects and loves his children more than making them happy. Our happiness is important to him, but our safety is even more critical.

Seeking righteousness (Monday, July 2)

There is hardly a person living today who does not long for righteousness, whether individually or corporately. The truth of the matter, however, is that few are willing to commit their lives toward such a goal. Most people would rather complain about all of the problems in the world than to pursue the calm they are so desperately seeking. As a result, their hearts remain restless and their minds frustrated over what they see and hear daily.

Each moment, as we experience the problems and injustices around us, we grow more disillusioned about the present. Our despair may even erase any hope we might have for the future. Half-heartedly, we try to remind ourselves that God is in control, hoping our hollow words will make us believe.

There should be no doubt about God’s presence and power. He is in complete control. Not only does he want us to learn to trust him during every tribulation, but he yearns to give us his spiritual and mental comfort as well. In Matthew 5:6, Jesus says that those who hunger and thirst for righteousness will be filled. Moreover, these people will be blessed because they have put the ways of God above all else.

What we are really doing when we seek the righteousness of God is putting him before everything else: before our desires, our hopes, our plans, even our frustrations and worries. As we seek his truth both for our personal lives and for the rest of world, we are filled with the knowledge that God reigns supreme in each and every situation.

Perfect vision (Sunday, July 1)

I suspect there are a great many people – Christians included – who claim to know God, but fail to see him clearly. When they peer into the distance to make out his will, all of the details appear blurry and out of focus. Perhaps the future is too far away from them to be seen at all.

Those who have myopia cannot see more than a few feet away without wearing glasses. Corrective lenses allow them to observe what they could not discern before. If we lack proper vision, then we need to do something. Otherwise, we will never catch sight of things as they are; objects will always seem hazy.

The apostle Peter said that it is possible to be nearsighted and blind when it comes to actual knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ. We cannot, though, simply put on a pair of glasses and see God better. But we can put on certain qualities that will make us clear-sighted followers. In addition to our faith, we need to add such things as goodness, self-control, perseverance, godliness, kindness and love. These virtues, Peter says, will keep us from being ineffective and unproductive in our lives.

As we add each quality to our faith, God will gradually come into focus. We will see him better and know exactly what lies ahead. In short, we will realize his purpose for us. No matter where we find ourselves right now, we have his perfect vision to see beyond the present moment.