Pray Serve Love

Psalm 5 - Arrogance Cannot Stand

2012-01-31T10:59:00.000-08:00

Psalm 5 - Why do we often times pray on our knees? Why do we bow our heads? Why, sometimes, when we seek the Lord withdesperation do we fall prostrate? Because arrogance cannot stand in the presence of God (verse 5). So it’s not just our body that gets on ourknees, bows, or falls prostrate. But ourhearts need to take the same posture as well!

Here’s a question we all need to ask. Do we want God’s presence only when we arepraying? Or do we want God’s presenceall the time in our lives? If the 2^ndquestion is answered with a yes, thenwe need to carry that same posture with us throughout our daily living. Arrogance cannot stand in the presence ofGod. Is there anything arrogant aboutyour lifestyle?

My desire, Lord, is that my confidence would come throughyou living in and through me. Give methe strength to be humble. Amen.

Psalm 4 - Does It Get Any Better?

2012-01-30T08:26:00.000-08:00

Psalm 4 - Does it get any better than this? I guess it all depends on what “this”is! But most of the time, the answer is YES! No matter what possessions we have, there will always be bigger andbetter. No matter the success we enjoy,there will always be the next level to achieve. No matter how full our bellies get, they will be hungry again tomorrow. No matter how great our relationships are,there is always room for improvement.

However, when God shines his goodness upon our lives, werealize we have more than enough! Infact, take away all the things of life and still leave God, then we’ll stillhave more than enough! God has “filledour hearts with greater joy” than anything else possibly can (verse 7).

You are more than enough for my life, Lord. Will you shine upon all that I have so thatmy blessings will pour into those around me. Amen.

Psalm 3 - Lay Down Our Lives

2012-01-11T09:54:00.000-08:00

Psalm 3 - When enemies were pursuing David to kill him, what wouldhave placed him in the most vulnerable state? Sleeping! When you’re asleep, youare defenseless. But David proclaimedGod to be a shield around him. Then helay down and fell asleep! By sleeping,David demonstrated his total trust in God.

When we proclaim to trust God, we should follow up thatproclamation with action. In otherwords, we can’t say we trust God with our future, yet continue to worry. We can’t say we trust God with a situation,yet not give Him control. Like David, tofully demonstrate that we trust God, we need to lay down our lives so that Godwill have full reign.

My heart’s desire is to trust you fully, Lord. But it’s difficult to be thatvulnerable. Will you continue to grow metowards a faith that trusts you more? Amen.

Psalm 2 - God's Child

2012-01-05T07:09:00.000-08:00

Psalm 2 - I’m honored to be my parents’ son. Mom and Dad are both honest, hardworking,caring people. Others respect thembecause they have spent most of their lifetimes pouring themselves intoothers. So when they call me their son,I count it as a joy.

The writer of this chapter expressed a joy in the fact thatGod has called him God’s son (verse 7). Who wouldn’t be thrilled by the fact that the creator of the universewould claim you as His child? The truththat we read in John 1:12-13 is that anyone who receives Christ is adopted byGod! God’s own child! That’s right… God has claimed you as His own!

Thank you, God, for adopting me into your family! Knowing that I belong to you gives me morejoy than anything else in the world! Amen.

Psalm 1 - The Author Of My Life

2011-12-15T12:10:00.000-08:00

Psalm 1 - There are many things that I take delight in… at variouslevels of “delightment.” I take delightin my marriage and family. I takedelight in a good ball game and a large deluxe pizza with extra sauce. But my biggest delight is in the law of theLord (verse 2).

By definition, laws are principles and regulationsestablished by an authority. So whyshould we take delight in God’s laws? Because this means we have handed authority of our lives over toGod. This makes God the author of allthat we are and all that we will become. Our joy comes from allowing our creator… the one who loves us the most…to speak into our lives purpose and direction!

Thank you, Lord, for your laws in my life. Continually draw me away from other thingsthat try to author my life. Amen.

Decisions That Lead to Victory

2011-12-14T07:45:00.000-08:00

The Philistines overtookSaul’s army, in 1 Samuel 31. Saul’ssons, including Jonathan, were killed. When he knew he would not survive, Saul took his own life. The Israelites, who lived in the region, heardabout the defeat. The Philistines occupiedthose towns.

Nowhere in this recording dowe read about what Saul was feeling. ButI wonder if in his dieing moments, Saul thought to himself, “Where did I gowrong?” Or maybe he wished that Davidwas there with his great army to battle against the Philistines. Certainly, it must have crossed his mind thathis bad decisions and mistakes put his army and nation into such drasticcircumstances.

The truth about life is thatthere will always be death. But there isa HUGE difference between death and defeat. In fact, death doesn’t have victory. That victory belongs to resurrection! But am I making decisions that are causing defeat in my life and in thelives of the people who are following me? Or am I making decisions that result in victory?

Guide my steps towardsvictory, Lord. Give me the peace and assurance that those steps are on the sideof resurrection. Amen.

Responding God's Way

2011-12-08T06:53:00.001-08:00

David and his men returnedto their camp, in 1 Samuel 30, and found they had been raided by theAmalekites. All of the women andchildren had been taken away along with all of their possessions. Many were talking about stoning David todeath, because they were upset about their families. But David found strength in the Lord (v. 6),pursued their enemies, and brought their families back to safety.

Verse 6 says that David was“greatly distressed” when the men were talking about stoning him. He could have handled this situation in manydifferent ways. He could have ranaway. He could have accepted defeat andgiven up. He could have fought with themen who wanted to kill him. But insteadhe turned to God.

What do you do in situationswhere people are over the top angry with you? David stepped back and assessed the situation: “Am I the evil thatpeople are upset about? Or am I the easytarget for anger?” The best thing to doin situations like this is turn to God, and allow Him to speak to us what ourresponses should be.

Speak to me during thebattles of my life, Lord. Give me thevision to see the evils that people are truly upset about. Direct my paths so that my responses areaccording to your will and purpose. Amen.

The Christmas Challenge

2011-12-07T06:14:00.001-08:00

Will you invest as much money into God's Kingdom as you spend on your family and friends this Christmas season? This is The Christmas Challenge that was presented to the people at our YMCA campus. The motivation behind the challenge is that Christians often make a fuss about "keeping Christ in Christmas". At the same time, we spend absurd amounts of money during this time of year on gifts that have nothing to do with Christ or the furthering of God's kingdom!

The Christmas Challenge motivates us to find out where God is moving, and allows us to support that movement financially. It asks us to spoil our families less and bless those who don't have as much. It begs us to use our resources in a way that shines light on the oppressed and gives hope to the lost. The Christmas Challenge gives us the opportunity to teach our children and grandchildren what it really means to keep Christ in Christmas.

We started talking about the challenge back in July so that everyone could start praying and preparing. However, there's a difference between a good idea in July and carrying it out in December. Isn't there? Our "good intentions" can easily turn into "maybe someday" as we feel that pressure of finding that perfect gift that our loved ones just have to have.

It's not an easy challenge, but one that keeps Christmas in perspective. Are you willing to invest as much money into God's Kingdom as you spend on your family and friends this Christmas season?

Between a Rock and a Hard Place

2011-12-07T06:09:00.001-08:00

David and his men joined thePhilistine army, in 1 Samuel 29, as they marched forward to fight the Israel army. Many of the Philistine commandersobjected. Before he sent David away, Achishproclaimed that he found no fault in him. Before he left, David inquired, “What have you found against yourservant?” Achish explained that Davidhad been pleasing in his sight, but the commanders insisted on this decision.

What kind of stunt was Davidtrying to pull off? If he stayed on thePhilistine’s side, he would have been fighting against God’s chosenpeople. If he turned on the Philistines,then he would have gone against his word and continued down his deceitful pathand betrayed Achish, who had saved David’s life! But God had a third plan. He sent David home so that David and his menwould not fight in this battle.

Like David, the choices wemake can put us between a rock and a hard place. Have you ever found yourself in such asituation? Are you in one of thosesituations now? As in David’s case,pride often keeps us from admitting our mistakes and backing out of thesepredicaments. Where integrity could havesaved us in the first place, humility is the only way out.

God, give us the courage tolive integral lives so that we don’t put ourselves in difficult situations thatcould have been avoided. And whenneeded, give us the strength to demonstrate humility, even if it means enduringconsequences. Amen.

My Plans Or God's Plans?

2011-12-06T10:37:00.001-08:00

Saul was afraid when he sawthe Philistine army, in 1 Samuel 28, so he prayed that God would give him a vision. When he heard nothing from God, he went to awitch, who connected Saul with Samuel’s spirit. Samuel’s spirit asked Saul, “Why do you want to consult with me now? Isit because you are unable to connect with God?”

We look at Saul’s story andjust shrug our shoulders. Relying on hisown strength, he had been ignoring God’s plan all along. But now that things were looking bad, hesought out God’s plan! We want to say,“Saul! You had your chance! But now it’s too late!”

But the reality is that wedo this all the time in our own lives. We want to rely on our own strength until we can’t possibly do itanymore. Wouldn’t it be much simpler tojust let go right now? Wouldn’t it makemore sense to call on God before our lives become a mess? Where are you on this journey? Are you open to God’s direction in your ownlife?

Lord, will you take overthis life that you created? Will youshow me your path that I should be walking? I trust your ways. Amen.

Messed Up Leaders

2011-12-05T08:00:00.001-08:00

David, knowing that Saulwould continue to pursue him in Israel,went to the land of Philistines and askedthe king if he and his servants could live there, in 1 Samuel 27. King Achish gave him land. David raided Philistine cities, but told theking he was raiding Israelites.

Why is David acting likethis? He’s being dishonest with theking. He’s attacking cities withoutGod’s direction or provision. He’s killinginnocent people to accumulate material possessions. We are getting a good look at David’s humanside. Yes, we know that he’s chosen byGod. Yes, we already know that he willbe used by God to lead God’s people. Butdidn’t God have someone a little more “God-like” to anoint? Wasn’t there anyone else a little more purethat God could have chosen?

The fact is that God chooseswho He wants to choose to carry out His mission on earth. And the only people he can choose areimperfect humans! Most of the time, inthe case of David, the humans God chooses are really messed up! Have you ever questioned why God chose acertain person to carry out ministries around you? Are you one of those messed up people thatGod has called?

We don’t understand how orwhy you do it, Lord, but you’ve anointed us imperfect people to carry out yourmission. Prepare us. Guide us. Give us the wisdom and strength to do your will. Amen.

Difficult People

2011-12-01T08:31:00.001-08:00

Saul and his army pursuedDavid again, in 1 Samuel 26. While they were sleeping,David and a servant went into camp and took Saul’s spear, but did not killanyone. When they woke, David told themthat he valued their lives, and asked if Saul would do the same with him. Saul blessed David and said that he would besuccessful.

Why did Saul, after Davidhad already spared his life once, feel like he needed to pursue Davidagain? Pride? Jealousy? Insecurity? Whatever it was, hedidn’t stick to his promise because of his own problems, not because of David. Do you have people in your life that neverleave you alone? Do you have people inyour life that seem like they are always after you? Do you have people in your life that arenever happy unless you are miserable?

How did David respond? He spared Saul’s life. He recognized that Saul was still God’sanointed. He left it in God’shands. Are you able to let go ofdifficult people and leave them in God’s hands? Chances are, they are being difficult because of their own problems andnot because of you. Will you ask God totake care of those difficult situations?

Help me, Lord, to be godly andpatient like David. Give me the wisdomto put my life situations in Your hands. Amen.

R-E-S-P-E-C-T

2011-11-30T06:49:00.001-08:00

David and his followers werein need of food, in 1 Samuel 25. He sent some of his men to beg for food from a wealthy man, named Nabal. Nabal said he did not knowDavid and didn't have enough to share. David planned to seek revenge, and attackNabal and all of his servants. Nabal’swife, Abigail, interceded by giving David all the food he needed for hispeople. She also begged David forforgiveness and mercy, which David granted. Ten days later, Nabal died.

Have you ever felt like youwere being overlooked? Have you everfelt like nobody was giving you the respect and recognition that youdeserve? How did that make you feel? It made David very upset! Here he was, the next king of Israel, themighty warrior, and he didn’t have enough food for his people so he had toresort to begging! And he was rejected!

How would that make you feelif you were David? Would you want to getrevenge? Would you want to make yourselfknown? That’s what David wanted todo. But Abigail talked some sense intohim: “Who cares about this person whoisn’t respecting you? It’s obvious thatyou are doing God’s work. I’ll take careof you!” We all need Abigails in ourlives to remind us of who we are and to keep us focused on our main tasks. Who is your Abigail?

Thank you, Lord, for thepeople in my life who remind me daily of my goals and tasks… those who remindme of who I am according to your purpose and will for my life! Amen.

Follow the Leader

2011-11-23T07:21:00.001-08:00

David had an opportunity tokill Saul, in 1 Samuel 24, but God touched David’s heart to not kill him. After he spared his life, David explained toSaul that he had been nothing but loyal to him, and that he would still be loyalto him. Saul, after hearing David’swords, called him righteous. He toldDavid that he would someday be king, and wished him greatness and success.

Respect for authority issomething that doesn’t always come easy… especially when that authority is notobedient. It’s most difficult to respectauthority when that person is trying to bring you down. But where do we find David in thispassage? Bowed down with his face to theground! He could have been on top ofhim, and finished him off with his sword. But instead, he recognized Saul as his master, and anointed by God.

What is our posture toauthority like? Do we give the samerespect as David did? What about insituations where the authority is wrong? Do we say bad words about that person and treat them less thanrespectful? Or do we still respect thatperson as God’s anointed child and leader? Notice that David didn’t agree with Saul. In fact, he showed Saul what he had donewrong. But David never forgot Saul’sposition as authority.

Give me the humility ofDavid, Lord, to know who my authority is, and to respect those people as Daviddid. Amen.

Leaders Listen To God

2011-11-18T08:47:00.001-08:00

David and his army saved thecity of Keilahfrom the Philistines, in 1 Samuel 23, but God revealed to David that if they stayed in Keilah,those people would turn David and his people over to Saul. So they left and hid in the wilderness. Responding to a tip, Saul and his armypursued David. When they almost got to him,word got out that the Philistines had raided their land while they were gone,so they turned and went back to fight the Philistines.

Before David’s army attackedthe Philistines in Keilah, his men begged David not to do it. After David got the 2^nd “go ahead”from God, they defeated the Philistines. But then the people of Keilah didn’t want them around! What did David’s army think about that? “Wetold you so, David! We lost people in that battle for nothing! Why did we everlisten to you?”

How many times have you madea decision based on what was right, which was totally different than what waspopular? How did others respond to thatdecision? Doing the right thing,especially when leading others, is not always popular. The best we can do is stay close to God andlisten to His guidance and direction. Hewill surely give us the affirmation… especially when it doesn’t come frompeople.

Loving God, help us always todo the right thing, even when others don’t see it. And continue to show us your love andaffirmation through the difficult situations. Amen.

He Ran To Me!

2011-11-17T12:51:00.001-08:00

My oldest son stopped calling me "Daddy" a long time ago. Now it's just "Dad". Actually, sometimes it's just "Hey". No matter what he calls me, I love him. It doesn't matter that he doesn't hold my hand any more. I still love him. So what if he thinks he's too mature to kiss his dad before he goes to bed at night? I love him regardless!

But something wonderful happened when my son got off the bus yesterday. He ran to me and hugged me! He was glad to see me! What a great gift... one that he didn't even realize he was giving! And I think that he enjoyed the moment as well. (That is, until he realized his friends were watching.)

Have you stopped calling God "Daddy"? Has that newness of your relationship with Him worn off? Are you too mature now to just rest in God's arms and allow Him to hold you? God's love for you will never change, no matter how independent you want to be. But don't you think God receives joy when you run to Him? And wouldn't it do you some good as well?

Who's On My Side?

2011-11-17T12:37:00.001-08:00

One of Saul’s servants,Doeg, reported that the priest aided David, in 1 Samuel 22. When confronted by Saul, the priest wondered why he wouldn’t tend toDavid like he always did, especially since he didn’t know anything about theconflict between David and Saul. Hereminded Saul that David was his son-in-law, his most loyal servant, and hisbest soldier. Saul commanded hisservants to kill all the priests and their families. Nobody would do it, with the exception ofDoeg.

Why didn’t the priest knowanything about the conflict between David and Saul? Because David chose not to tell him. Why? Maybe because David didn’t want him to get involved. Maybe because David wanted to protecthim. Maybe because David didn’t want thepriest to have to choose sides. Whateverthe motivation, David didn’t give the priest the inside scoop.

How many people in ourinside circles know about the conflict between us and a coworker orfriend? How many people outside ourcircles are privileged to that information as well? We tend to try to get asmany people on our “side”, when those people shouldn’t be on a side to beginwith! Next time we want to share aconflicted situation with a third party, it wouldn’t hurt to first ask a fewquestions:

How will this person benefitfrom knowing the situation? Am I sharinginformation only to get power and control? How will sharing information help resolve the conflict? Will the person in conflict with me benefitfrom me sharing this information?

God of infinite wisdom, willyou guide my motivations? Thank you forthe conflict in my life. Help me toresolve those situations in a Godly manner, and grow me closer to you becauseof it. Amen.

What Makes a Worship Celebration Good?

2011-11-16T11:40:00.001-08:00

After leaving worship this past Sunday, I thought to myself, "Now that was a good worship celebration." Have you ever left worship with that thought? This isn't to say that worship is bad any other time, but there are definitely those Sundays that really resonate with me more than other Sundays. So the question is, "What makes a worship celebration good?" Here's my list:

God's Presence: It's not so much that God shows up, because God is willing to show up all the time. It's more that the church welcomes God showing up!
Warm Feeling: When I walked into our worship space this past Sunday, people were sharing, laughing, hugging, and simply being friendly to others.
Truth Speaking: When the teaching speaks truth into our lives, it feels good... even if the truth hurts!
Kids: There's something about going to worship and experiencing lots of kids excited about Jesus!
Diversity: The Body of Christ is made up of many different parts. Worship is better when those different parts are present, because it makes the Body of Christ more complete.
Passionate Worship Leading: When the people up front lead worship with all they have, it tends to spill over to the congregation.

So there are my thoughts on what makes a worship service good. What have I left out?

God Is Here

2011-11-16T10:38:00.001-08:00

David fled from Saul, in 1 Samuel 21, takingnothing with him. He stopped to ask thepriest for food and a spear. The priestgave him Holy bread and the spear that David won from Goliath.

The Holy bread, or the breadof the Presence (verse 6), was exactly what David needed at that time. It reminded David that even during that timeof uncertainty, God was there with him. Evenwhen David’s world was turned upside down, God was present.

This is the importance ofHoly Communion in our lives today. Itreminds us that God is here. In themidst of all that is crazy in our lives, God is here. Even when we don’t know where to turn or whoto turn to, God is here. Even when wedon’t even recognize God’s presence among us, God is here.

Ever present God, I amthankful that you are here with me always. Thank you for Holy Communion, which reminds me of your presence. Will you continue to show meYourself in my daily life? Amen.

True Friendships

2011-11-15T13:54:00.001-08:00

Jonathan went to find David,in 1 Samuel 20, who was hiding from the King. They setup a plan, where Jonathan would determine whether or not it was safe for Davidto come back. After determining that hisfather would kill David if he saw him again, Jonathan told David to not comeback. They formed a covenant that Godwould always be between the two of them, no matter the distance.

This is true friendship thatis seen between David and Jonathan… a friendship that is based on trust. Should David trust Jonathan when he’s told tostay in a certain hiding place? What ifJonathan tells his father where David is hiding? And should Jonathan trust David that he won’thave revenge on Saul’s whole family, including himself, if David comes topower? Why should he help David escape?

It’s the covenant: “The Lordshall be between me and you, between your descendants and my descendantsforever.” This relationship is based onthe Lord. God will get them through thisrough time. God will get them throughthe unknown. God will get them throughthe impossible. It’s a friendship thatshould never work out, but with God as the common bind, this friendship isblessed and strengthened.

O God, give me friendshipslike that of David and Jonathan. Be thesource of love, guidance, and strength that bonds our friendship together. Amen.

Happy Birthday Sulphur Grove

2011-11-14T07:27:00.001-08:00

Happy birthday Sulphur Grove! As we celebrated our 140 years of ministry this weekend, I was wondering how many of those church planters 140 years ago would have guessed the future of Sulphur Grove would be this amazing!

Could they have possible known that 140 years later, their little church would be sending missionaries out in the community and throughout the world? Could they even imagine that 140 years later their church would have started a brand new campus at the Y and adopt 2 other churches? Did they know that 140 years later their church would be known as the church that serves others? I wonder what God has in store for Sulphur Grove during the next 140 years.

Friendship Above Power

2011-11-14T07:22:00.001-08:00

Saul’s jealousy, in 1 Samuel 19, brought himto the point where he wanted to kill David. Jonathan reminded his father, Saul, that David had been a great warrior,and had done nothing wrong. Saul vowednot to hurt David. But he broke that vowafter David won another battle against the Philistines. Saul tried to kill David, but heescaped.

At this point, most peopleprobably understood that David has been anointed as the next king. But if David died, wouldn’t that putJonathan, the king’s son, back into the conversation of who would be the nextking? Jonathan could have sided with hisfather in this plot against David to help secure his own power and position.

But Jonathan put hisfriendship above power. He put what wasright over the climb for a higher position in life. Even though this decision seems black andwhite… especially since we know the outcome… is choosing what is right alwayseasy? What’s most important to you? Is it relationships or power? Personal friendships or position in life?

Will you give me the courageof Jonathan, Lord? Will you give me thecourage to stand in the gap for my friends? Will you show me the motives in my life that are impure, and cleansethose areas of my life that don’t reflect Your compassion? Amen.

Don't Be a Hater

2011-11-10T07:57:00.000-08:00

David became one of Saul’sleaders, in 1 Samuel 18, and was very successful in battles. He also formed a strong relationship with Saul’s son, Jonathan. The people of Israel celebrated David’s success,which made Saul jealous. Saul gave hisdaughter, Michal, to David for marriage. Was this to keep David close? Orwas it to kill him off?

Saul had to be absolutelythrilled with having such a great leader in David! You would think he was glad for the bond thatformed between David and his son as well. So what was the turning point? Itwas when the people started singing louder praises about David than about Saul(vv. 7-8)! What Saul didn’t understandis that a great leader should be able to celebrate the success of those for whom he isresponsible.

Have you ever been jealousof anyone for their success? Has thatjealousy been directed toward anyone in your company? Maybe someone who works “under” you? What is keeping you from celebrating thatperson’s success? What areas of yourleadership does God need control of in order to make you a leader of integrityand vision?

Show my leadershipweaknesses, Lord. Help me to celebratethe successes of those whom I lead. Amen.

Hello Friends!

2011-11-10T07:33:00.000-08:00

Here's a quick shout out to my friends at Brandt UMC who said they were going to research this "blog thing" today! I love you all, and I'm looking forward to working alongside you during this season of ministry!

It's Not My Battle

2011-11-09T07:00:00.000-08:00

Goliath, a Philistine, challenged anyone to fight him, in 1 Samuel 17. Not one Israelite would accept thechallenge. David, who was simply amessenger at the time, decided he would fight Goliath. He took a sack full of stones and aslingshot. With one shot, he knocked thewarrior over, and then cut off his head. The Israelites then attacked the Philistines and overtook them as well.

When Goliath ridiculed Davidfor coming out with only a stick in his hand, David responded, “You come to mewith sword and spear, but I come to you in the name of the Lord… and today theLord will conquer you.” David knew aheadof time that the battle was not his, it was God’s. David also knew that it didn’t matter theother side was better equipped, better trained, and even bigger andstronger! All that mattered was that thebattle was God’s battle.

What can anyone bringagainst me when God is on my side? Whatcan anyone say that can harm God? Whatcan anyone do that would cause God to be a loser? When I’m truly representing God in a battle,I can go with confidence that God has already won! It doesn’t matter how much experience, howmuch power, and how many weapons the other side has… I have God!

Thank you for the victory,Lord! Remind me, daily, that all I needis you. Amen.

God Looks At My Heart

2011-11-08T12:49:00.000-08:00

Samuel went to Jesse’s house, as directed by God, in 1 Samuel 16, to anoint the next king of Israel. All of Jesse’s boys passed by, but God had not chosen any of them. The only one left was the youngest, who was out tending the sheep. His name was David. Samuel went out and anointed David.

Why didn’t God choose one of the other sons of Saul? Eliab was the son who looked most like a king. He was tall and well built. But God said, “I do not look at people the way you do. You look at the outward appearance, but I look at the heart.”

I’m glad that God doesn’t judge by the outward appearance, because most of the time I’m not presentable. My life is usually not in order. I’m usually dealing with some sort of sin or bad habit. And my spiritual life often has holes in it. I’m glad that that God can see my heart. I’m thankful that God knows that my desires are to be close to Him and to serve His children.

Search my heart, Lord. Know my desires. See the faith in me that even I can’t see sometimes. Form my life so that my outside will someday match my inside. Amen.

Obedience Better Than Sacrifice

2011-01-19T04:42:00.000-08:00

Samuel relayed God's words to Saul, in 1 Samuel 15, that he should invade the city of Amalek and to spare no person or animal. Israel did as God had said, but they kept the best of the cattle. When confronted by Samuel, Saul said that they at least sacrificed the best of the cattle they kept. Samuel said that God would rather you obey than to make sacrifices, and then told Saul that God would select another king.

Why did Saul not obey God and allow the people to keep the cattle? He was afraid of the people, so he gave into what they wanted (verse 24). It's actually easy for us to relate to Saul, isn't it? We've all been in this situation, at different levels, where God is calling us to do one thing, and people are asking (or demanding) something else from us. So what does God want us to do? Above all, He wants us to obey His words.

Has God's call on your life ever been trumped by what other people wanted from you? Have you ever found yourself pleasing others instead of obeying God's words? How can you learn from Saul's mistakes so that your life is not guided by the wants of other people?

Building An Altar

2011-01-13T07:36:00.000-08:00

Saul's son, Jonathan, in 1 Samuel 14, defeated a camp of Philistines without Saul knowing it. This event led to a battle where Israel defeated the Philistines. Not knowing that Saul bound the army to an oath to not eat that day, Jonathan ate honey. Saul was going to have Jonathan put to death, but the men pleaded for Jonathan's life because he had brought deliverance to Israel.

Towards the end of this crazy day in Saul's life, he finally did something that was long overdue. He built an altar to the Lord (verse 35). It was at the altar they made sacrifices, consulted the Lord, and settled the dispute between Saul and Jonathan. Like Saul, we often don't take time to go to the altar, wherever that might be in our lives. We don't take the time out of our crazy schedules to be in God's presence. But only in God's presence can we truly find purpose and direction.

Where is your altar? Where do you go to be in God's presence? Have you been there today? Will you take time out today to listen for God's purpose and direction in your life?

Out Of Order

2011-01-12T05:59:00.000-08:00

Saul led an attack against the Philistines, in 1 Samuel 13, but Israel was greatly outnumbered. He offered a sacrifice to God, but didn't wait for Samuel to do the ceremony. Samuel prophesied that God would establish another leader for Israel. Meanwhile, the Philistines took over the blacksmith shops in Israel, which kept the Israelites from making new weapons and sharpening their makeshift weapons.

Saul performed several events that were drastically out of order. His actions came before seeking God and spiritual guidance. It's no wonder why he found himself in such a huge mess! What would have happened if he first consulted Samuel for spiritual guidance and they offered up sacrifices together? Would he have made the same decisions? But the results Saul got are no surprise, because this is how life goes when we go to God as an after thought!

What decisions do you have to make today? Have you spent time in prayer before making those decisions? Are you willing to take time out to seek spiritual guidance so that your decisions are consistent with God's will for your life?

Stand Still

2011-01-11T09:49:00.000-08:00

Samuel asked the Israelites, in 1 Samuel 12, what sins he had committed against them. They said he had not committed any sins. Samuel then confronted the Israelites about demanding a king and not looking to God as their king. He warned them that God will turn from them and their new king if they are disobedient to God.

To prove his words were from God, Samuel told the Israelites to "stand still" and notice what God is about to do (verse 16). After that, Samuel prayed for rain, and God sent rain. Have you ever noticed that when we don't stand still, we can totally miss what God is doing? Even if it's as obvious as rain coming from down from the sky. It's only in our stillness that we can truly see and understand what God is doing in our lives.

What do you have to do today to stand still? Have you set aside time to take a break from your business for the purpose of listening to God? Are there activities that can wait, or maybe that others can do, in order for you to have time simply to stand still?

Is Anger OK?

2011-01-10T04:49:00.000-08:00

Nahash, an enemy of Israel, in 1 Samuel 11, prepared to go to war with one of the cities of Israel. Their plan was to eventually humiliate the whole nation. When word of this got to Saul, he rallied over 300,000 men, who defeated Nahash's army. After this, Israel threw a big celebration to reaffirm Saul as king.

What happened when Saul heard about Nahash trying to take over? The Spirit of God, came upon him, and he became angry (verse 6)! Why? Because his people were getting bullied... they were about to get humiliated! So God's Spirit gave Saul the courage to say, "No! I'm not going to let this happen!" This is an example of how anger can be a good thing when it comes from God.

Has God's presence ever prompted you to get angry about a situation? How did you respond? Has there ever been a time when you were angry about how someone was being treated? What can you do when something like this occurs?

Confidence to Be Quiet

2011-01-06T05:42:00.000-08:00

After Samuel gave him instruction, Saul left and had a change of heart about God's call on his life to be king, in 1 Samuel 10. Samuel then held a ceremony where he introduced Saul as the king of Israel, and then explained the rights and duties of a king. The crowd was pleased with the selection, yet some despised Saul from the beginning. Saul kept quiet.

Sometimes people make up their minds about others without giving them a chance. Most likely, these people weren't really upset with Saul. Maybe they were upset about their current condition. Maybe they were upset that they didn't get chosen to be king. Maybe their hearts were already hardened about God's plans for their lives and the life of their nation. But what did God do in this situation? He gave Saul the confidence to be quiet! No words would have made this situation any better.

Has following God's call ever made others upset with you? How did you handle that situation? Has God ever given you the confidence to be silent in the midst of conflict? How did that make you feel? Is there conflict now in your life right now that you need to hand over to God?

Never Insignificant

2011-01-05T04:28:00.000-08:00

Saul's family lost their donkeys, in 1 Samuel 9, so he and a few others traveled around looking for them. Seeking the guidance and direction of God in finding the donkeys, Saul and his friends went to talk with Samuel. Samuel let them know that the donkeys were found, but also told Saul that the nation, Israel, was depending on his leadership.

What was Saul's response to Samuel's words? "This can't be right! I come from the most insignificant families of the most insignificant tribe of Israel! Why would God want to use me for such an important job?" But God doesn't see any of His children as insignificant, does He? In fact, we are all significant in God's eyes. Even more, God's power becomes evident when He works through those of us who are normal, everyday people.

How do you see yourself when it comes to God placing a call on your life? Do you see yourself accomplishing big, important things for God's mission? Are you willing to allow God to work through you to accomplish big things? Can you see yourself as significant, just as God sees you?

Rejection Isn't Easy

2010-12-15T09:36:00.000-08:00

Samuel appointed his sons as leaders, in 1 Samuel 8, but they did not follow his ways. The Israelites demanded Samuel to appoint them a king. Samuel prayed, and heard God say, "They are not rejecting you, but they are rejecting me as their king." God told him to grant the people their wish, but Samuel warned the people against such a request.

Rejection isn't easy. It's often times difficult to take. But this is the chance we take when we proclaim God's message of hope or live out God's call on our lives. People might reject what we say or do. When this happens, let's listen to God's words to Samuel. It's not us, but it's God who they are rejecting. With this is mind, we can have confidence when we speak or live out God's hope. He's big enough to handle the rejection!

Have you ever felt rejected for proclaiming God's message? For living out God's call on your life? What difference does it make that it's really God who is being rejected? Is God calling you right now to do anything for His kingdom?

Is Christ King?

2010-12-14T11:03:00.000-08:00

Samuel told the people of Israel, in 1 Samuel 7, if they are really turning back to the Lord, then they need to rid their lives and hearts of idols and other gods. Then they fasted and confessed their sins. The Philistines attacked Israel, but God protected Israel and led them to victory.

Samuel's message to the Israelites is the same in our lives today. If we are sincere about turning to the Lord, we need to rid our own lives and hearts of idols and other gods. Our heart only has one throne for only one king. We can either make Christ our king, or make something else or someone else our king.

Do you have any idols or gods competing with Christ for the throne of your heart? If so, what is it? Or who is it? Do you need to rid your lives of anything that's keeping Christ from being king? What can you do today to put Christ on the throne as the king of your heart?

In God's Presence

2010-12-09T07:30:00.000-08:00

The Philistines put the ark of the Lord on a cart, in 1 Samuel 6, and had two cows pull it back to the Israelites. The Israelites rejoiced, set up an altar, and burned sacrifices. Those who opened the ark and looked into it died. The people asked, "Who can stand in the presence of the Lord, this Holy God?"

Traditionally, the ark represented God's presence. It was kept in the most holy place in the temple where only the high priest could approach it on behalf of the people. He was the only one who could stand in the presence of God. But what happened when Christ died on the cross? The veil separating the people from the ark was torn in two. Through Christ, we have direct access to the throne. Through Christ, we are able to stand, or kneel, in the presence of the Lord.

What are some things you can do today to enter into God's presence? Do you have time set aside when it's just you and God today? If not, will you make plans to spend time in God's presence each day?

Our God Is Greater

2010-12-08T09:59:00.000-08:00

The Philistines placed the ark of the Lord, in 1 Samuel 5, next to one of their idol gods, which fell on its face and broke. The Philistines felt the hand of God was against them, and many became sick and afflicted. The people begged the Philistine leaders to send the ark back to the Israelites.

The ark represented, to the people of Israel, God's presence. So when the Philistines captured the ark, they thought it would be appropriate to place Israel's God next to their own god. But what did they find out? Their god was was incomparable and unable to even exist in God's presence! King Solomon said it best in 2 Chronicles 2:5, "Our God is greater than all other gods."

Has there been a time in your life where you have tried to stack up other idols and gods next to the one true God? What are those other idols and gods? Is there anything in your life right now that you are trying to make greater than God? What needs to happen in order to make God the greatest in your life?

Consulting God First

2010-12-06T08:07:00.000-08:00

After the Philistines defeated Israel in a battle, in 1 Samuel 4, Eli's two sons asked why the Lord had allowed them to be defeated. Then they took the ark of the Lord's covenant with them so that they wouldn't be defeated again. However, the Israelites were defeated, the ark was stolen, and Eli's sons were killed. Upon hearing this news, Eli died, and one of his daughters-in-law said that the glory of God left Israel because the ark had been taken.

What happened between the time Eli's sons asked why God allowed them to be defeated and the time they took the ark into battle (verse 3)? Nothing! They attributed the defeat to being in God's hands, but they didn't consult with God about their next strategy. Instead, they took matters into their own hands and made the situation worse. God's glory didn't leave them because they lost the ark! They lost the ark because they themselves left God's glory!

Have you ever experienced in your life when you tried to take matters into your own hands? What were the results? What will it take to give God control of all your circumstances? Are you willing to first wait and consult God before reacting to situations?

Helping Others Discern God's Call

2010-11-04T11:17:00.000-07:00

God called Samuel three times, in 1 Samuel 3, but all three times, he didn't know it was God. Eli explained to Samuel that it was God calling him, and that he should listen to Him next time. Samuel did just that, and heard God speak about the future of Israel and Eli's family.

What would Samuel have done without Eli? He would have kept hearing God calling him, not knowing what to do with that call. This is what so many people do at churches. They go. They hear God calling. But they don't know what to do with it! It's up to those of us who have already responded to God's call to be an "Eli" for other people, helping them discern God's call in their own lives.

Do you know any people in your church who haven't responded to God's call? How many new people at your church have you gotten to know? Are there people in your church whom you need to get to know so that you can help them understand God's call?

Obedient To God's Call

2010-10-08T10:32:00.000-07:00

Hannah was grateful for what God had done in her life, in 1 Samuel 2, and said a prayer of thanks and praise. We also read about Eli's sons in the same chapter. They were wicked and mistreated the offerings and sacrifices. God's words came to Eli: "Those who honor me, I will honor, but those who despise me will be disdained" (verse 30). Then God promised to raise up a faithful priest.

God places a call on all of our lives to carry out His mission on earth. But often times, we ignore that call and choose to do our own thing. So what does God do? He finds someone else who will carry out His mission! This is what happened to Eli's sons. God chose them to be priests for His people, but they were disobedient to that call. So God simply promised that he would raise up someone else to do the job!

What is God calling you to do for His mission? Are you being obedient to that call? Or does God have to find someone else to carry out the mission?

Getting Real With God

2010-10-07T07:04:00.000-07:00

Not knowing Hannah was praying for a child, in 1 Samuel 1, the priest, Eli, thought she was drunk. Hannah explained that she was pouring out her soul to the Lord. God gave Hannah a child, and she called him Samuel. She brought him to Eli to be dedicated, and said, "His whole life will be given over to the Lord."

Can you imagine how intense Hannah's prayer must have been if the priest thought she was drunk? Verse 16 says she was praying out of her anguish and grief. In other words, Hannah was getting real with God! This is what prayer is all about! It's not about saying the right words. It's not about folding your hands right or bowing your head correctly. It's not about kneeling, standing, or sitting the right way. Prayer is about getting real with God!

How has your prayer life been lately? Have you been pouring out your soul to the Lord? Have you been real with God lately?

In God's Time

2010-09-29T04:15:00.000-07:00

Jesus appeared to Mary Magdalene, in Mark 16:9-20. She went and told the others, but they did not believe her. Jesus appeared to other people, and then to the disciples. After he rebuked them for not believing, he commissioned them to go and share the Gospel.

Can you imagine how frustrating that would have been for Mary? She wanted to share a wonderful experience with her friends, but nobody believed her. This is a good reminder that God works in different people's lives at different paces. For some of us it takes just a little bit longer to "get it" than it does for others. Mary gives us a great example, though. When God does a work in our lives, all we can do is share it with others, and then trust that God will use that testimony in His time.

Give us the courage to share our testimony with others, Lord, no matter what the reaction might be. Amen.

Turning Emptiness Into Life

2010-09-28T05:04:00.000-07:00

Three women went to Jesus' tomb, in Mark 16:1-8, and found that the stone was rolled away. An angel met them in the tomb and told them not to be alarmed, because Jesus had risen. The angel then instructed them to go tell the others that Jesus would meet them in Galilee.

Do you ever experience an empty tomb in your life? Do things ever go different than you expect? Do relationships ever not work out? Do your plans ever go south? What does the angel tell the women at the tomb? "What looks bad now is actually a good thing!" The truth is, God will take our empty tombs and give us resurrection! We just need to trust God that our empty tomb is not the end of the story. He's going to turn that emptiness into new life!

Thank you, Lord, for having my life in your hands. Thank you for giving me new life at the times I least expect it. Amen.

How Mighty Is Your King?

2010-09-24T05:27:00.000-07:00

A man named Joseph, in Mark 15:42-47, asked Pilate for the body of Jesus. Pilate, surprised that Jesus was already dead, gave Joseph permission to bury Jesus. Joseph wrapped the body, then placed it in a tomb.

Verse 43 tells us a few things about this man named Joseph.

He's from Arimathea.
He's a prominent member of the council.
He's waiting for God's kingdom.

Joseph was probably deflated at that point, because he was waiting for the kingdom, but was burying who he thought was the king. Joseph would only have to wait a few days to find out the king he buried is mightier than any other, because this king would conquer death. This is something we need to remember through the trials and stresses of our lives... our king is mightier than anything we could ever go through. How mighty is your king today?

Remind us daily, Lord, of how big you are. And help us to remember how tiny our circumstances are compared to you. Amen.

God, Where Are You?

2010-09-22T08:22:00.000-07:00

While on the cross, in Mark 15:33-41, Jesus cried out to God, "Why have you forsaken me?" When he died, the curtain in the temple was torn in two. The soldier standing at the cross realized that Jesus must have been the Son of God.

Have you ever prayed the words, "God! Where are you?" Maybe you were going through pain or a struggle. Maybe you were watching a loved one go through pain or a struggle. Whatever the circumstance, we've all been there. Even Jesus got to the point where he yelled out to God, "Where are you?" It's good to yell that out when we don't know. But then we need to listen to the answer, when God assures each of us, "I'm right here."

Thank you for being there for us, through it all, Lord. Help us to know your presence during the pain and through the struggles. Amen.

Jesus Didn't Save Himself

2010-09-21T06:29:00.000-07:00

A man named Simon, in Mark 15:21-32, was forced to carry Jesus' cross to Golgotha. There they crucified Jesus on that cross. Those who were there, even the criminals being executed next to him, mocked and insulted Jesus. The chief priests yelled out to him, "You saved others, now save yourself!"

Why didn't Jesus save himself like he had saved others? Because he was still busy saving others! For it's in the cross each of us are saved. If Jesus had saved himself that day, our lives wouldn't be the same today. We would be living lives separated from God... lives without hope... lives without purpose... lives without joy. So I'm thankful that Jesus didn't save himself that day. For in the cross, I have been saved.

Thank you, Jesus, for enduring the cross for my sake. Amen.

If They Only Knew

2010-09-20T10:40:00.000-07:00

The soldiers mocked Jesus, in Mark 15:16-20, and dressed him up like a king. They beat him, then bowed down before him. Then they led him off to be crucified.

If the soldiers only knew that the person they were kneeling before was really a king. If they only knew all the great things Jesus had done and was about to do. If they only knew, would it had made a difference? It's not all that uncommon to treat people one way before we know their story, and then treat them better when we find out who they are and what they have done. So we can understand, to some extent, what the soldiers had done... they just didn't know who Jesus really was. But does that make it right?

Help us to treat people right, Lord. Help us to see people through your eyes. Amen.

Making the Right Decisions

2010-09-16T06:47:00.000-07:00

Pilate asked Jesus, in Mark 15:1-15, if he was the king of the Jews. Jesus said he was. Even though others were making accusations, Jesus did not respond. Pilate gave the people a choice to release Jesus or a murderer named Barabbas. Influenced by the high priests, the people chose Barabbas.

Even if Jesus were absolutely crazy, it wouldn't make any sense for the people to release a murderer instead of Jesus! But they were influenced by the high priests. Have you ever been influenced to do something that didn't make any sense at all? In times of decision, it's easy to listen to those who are talking the loudest. But the best decisions are made after we listen for God's voice and direction.

Help me to know your voice, God. Give me the wisdom to make the right decisions. Amen.

2nd Chances

2010-09-15T04:13:00.000-07:00

Three times, in Mark 14:66-72, people told Peter that they had seen him with Jesus. Peter denied even knowing Jesus. After the third denial, a rooster crowed, just as Jesus said it would happen. Peter realized what he had done and cried.

Have you ever thought to yourself, "If I had to do it all over again, I would do it different." That's what Peter was going through. On the other side of a difficult circumstance, he realized that he had blown it. But then Peter finds out later something that we need to hear all the time... our God is a God of 2nd chances! So are there things you would like to do differently? Have you made a mess of certain areas of your life? Then take that 2nd chance (or 3rd or 4th chance). That's the kind of God we serve!

Thank you, Lord, for all the 2nd chances you give to me. Help me to have the courage to take those 2nd chances. Amen.

Open Our Eyes

2010-09-14T08:56:00.000-07:00

Jesus was brought before the high priests, in Mark 14:53-65, where several people gave false testimony against him. Finally, the high priest asked Jesus if he was the Christ, the son of God. Jesus said that he was. They pressed charges against him for blasphemy, then handed him over to the guards who beat him.

The irony here is that it wasn't the false testimonies that caused Jesus to be handed over, but it was the truth. Jesus claimed to be the Christ. The high priests were so blinded by their religion, that they couldn't believe the truth. Even though the Messiah was right in front of them, they could not see him. Is there anything in our lives that is keeping us from believing in Jesus and the power he gives? Is there anything in our lives that blinds us from seeing the Messiah?

Open our eyes each day, Lord, so that we can see you and experience your healing powers. Amen.

How Is Your Integrity?

2010-09-13T06:53:00.000-07:00

The high priests, teachers, and elders sent a crowd to arrest Jesus, in Mark 14:43-52. Judas betrayed Jesus by giving him a kiss, which signaled to the soldiers which person to arrest. Jesus asked if they thought he was leading a rebellion, and wondered why they hadn't arrested him before then.

What is usually meant as a sign of endearment, Judas used as an act of betrayal. Why? How would you have felt if you were Jesus, and a kind gesture from a friend was actually meant to harm you? Not that betrayal is ever OK, but Judas could have shown more integrity by confronting Jesus with the truth, instead of showing Jesus one side, and showing others another side. How is your integrity today? Are you being truthful with everyone?

Help us to be people of integrity, Lord. Show us how to be truthful, even when it is difficult. Amen.

You Are Not Alone!

2010-09-09T06:26:00.000-07:00

Jesus was overwhelmed with sorrow, in Mark 14:32-42, and went off to pray by himself. He prayed that God would "take this cup away," but then added, "Not my will, but yours." When he came back to the disciples, they were sleeping, and those who were going to arrest Jesus were arriving.

Have you ever gone through a stressful time or a painful experience, and nobody understood or even cared? If so, Jesus knows how you feel! He was experiencing stress and sorrow, but the disciples were clueless! They just wanted to sleep! Sometimes the people around us are all clueless. You could be having the worst day, or even the worst year, but nobody seems to care. But we have a savior who understands. He's been there! And he will be there for you through it all! You are not alone!

Thank you, Lord, for knowing and understanding what I go through. Thank you for always being there for me. Amen.

Our Fears Take Over

2010-09-07T12:38:00.000-07:00

Jesus predicted, in Mark 14:27-31, that Peter would deny him three times. Peter said that he would never deny Jesus. Even if he had to die with Jesus, he would never disown him. The other disciples said the same thing.

Was Peter lying when he told Jesus he would never deny him? No way! He was simply telling Jesus what was on his heart! He would never deny his best friend! But what's in our heart doesn't always win. Sometimes our fears take over our actions, and our hearts come in 2nd place. We need to continually strengthen our faith, so that our love for Jesus comes out on top.

Show us ways to strengthen our faith today, Lord, so that our love for you always wins! Amen.

Seeking To Understand

2010-09-02T04:42:00.000-07:00

Jesus gave directions to the disciples, in Mark 14:12-26, to make preparations for the Passover feast. During supper, Jesus shared that he knew one of them would betray him. He then gave thanks for the bread and wine. As he passed the bread and wine around, he called it his body and blood.

"This is my body... This is my blood." At that point, the disciples had no idea what all of this meant. They had no clue of what Jesus was about to do for them. But soon they would understand. Soon they would get it. Just like we don't understand all the time what God is doing in our own lives. We don't understand his plans or His purpose. We don't understand the journey. But soon it will become clear, and God's glory will be revealed.

Thank you for the sacrifice you have made for us, Lord. Guide us as we seek to understand you more and more each day. Amen.

God Only Needs 10%

2010-09-01T04:55:00.000-07:00

While some were plotting to kill Jesus, in Mark 14:1-11, a woman opened a jar of perfume and anointed Jesus with it. Those who saw it were upset and said she had wasted the perfume. She could have sold it and given the money to the poor. But Jesus commended her for doing something beautiful.

What would the woman had done with the money if she did what the people had suggested and sold the perfume? Or maybe the question should be, what would you have done with the money? Pay the bills or the rent? Car repairs? Set aside money for an emergency or vacation? God only needs 10%, right? But the woman said, "No! I'm going to give Jesus all that I have right now!" What are you willing to give God right now?

All I have is yours, God. Use what I have to draw others closer to you! Amen.

Don't Get Caught Sleeping

2010-08-31T10:08:00.000-07:00

Only God knows, as explained in Mark 13:32-37, when the end of age will be. So Jesus tells the people to be ready at all times... "Don't get caught sleeping."

Who doesn't like to sleep? It's refreshing! In fact, our bodies need sleep to survive. But it's the "do nothing" part of sleeping that Jesus warns us about in our spiritual lives. Don't get caught doing nothing! Don't get caught NOT feeding the poor. Don't get caught NOT visiting the sick. Don't get caught NOT housing the homeless. Don't get caught NOT trusting in Jesus. Don't get caught sleeping! We need to live our lives to the fullest today, living out God's kingdom right now, because there could be no tomorrow!

Show us how to live our lives for you, Lord. Give us opportunities to serve in your kingdom. Amen.

Stay With It

2010-08-26T08:32:00.000-07:00

The disciples were pointing out the temple architecture and stonework, in Mark 13:1-31. Jesus pointed out that at the end of the age, not one of those stones would remain. He talked about wars and persecution, then said that the Son of Man will come to gather the believers. His advice for the disciples was to "stand firm."

"Stand firm," Jesus said (NIV translation). The Message translation says, "Stay with it." This is Jesus' way of encouraging the disciples to keep up their faith, even when things start to look down. Stay with it... this world will not last forever! Stay with it... your troubles won't last forever! Stay with it... your struggles won't last forever! Stay with it... there are better days coming! Stay with it!

Thank you, Lord, for this message to stay with it! Thank you for your strength today and hope for tomorrow! Amen.

How Much Can I Give?

2010-08-24T06:19:00.001-07:00

As Jesus watched people put their contributions in the temple offering, in Mark 12:41-44, he saw a poor widow toss in a couple of coins. Jesus shared with his disciples that many people gave a lot of money that day, but this woman gave the most, because she gave all she had.

What do I have to offer? I don't have anything! How can I make a difference? So many more people have more to contribute! But here's the truth about how God works. When we give God all we have, we are allowing God to transform our lives. Then all that we are becomes an offering, which God will use to make a difference in the lives of others! Can anyone give more than that?

Take my whole life, not just a portion, as an offering to you, God. Use me to make a difference in others. Amen.

Who Gets the Glory?

2010-08-23T07:09:00.000-07:00

Jesus warned the people, in Mark 12:35-40, about the teachers of the law. He first corrected their teaching about the Christ. He then said that the teachers like to walk around in fancy clothes, treat the weaker people poorly, be noticed, and say long prayers just for show.

What's the difference between attracting people to our ministries with banners, spotlights, and advertising, and the people who Jesus taught against, who liked to draw attention to themselves? The difference is the answer to this question: Who gets the glory? Do we want people to notice ourselves, or do we want people to notice God? Is our faith genuine, or is it all just a show?

Help me to be genuine in my faith, Lord. My desire is to give you all the glory. Amen.

Now You've Got It!

2010-08-22T04:45:00.000-07:00

A teacher asked Jesus, in Mark 12:28-34, "What is the greatest commandment?" Jesus answered, "Love God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength... and love your neighbor as yourself." The teacher responded by saying that loving God and loving our neighbor is more important than giving burnt offerings and sacrifice.

Up to that point, the teachers, priests, and law makers were trying to trap Jesus because he didn't follow the rules and rituals of the religion. When Jesus heard the teacher's response, he said, "Yes! Now you've got it!" It's not about how you worship, it's about who you worship! It's not about living out the law, it's about living out the love! It's not about giving the church whatever portions the rules say to give, it's about giving God all of who we are in order to experience life to the fullest!

Take all of me, God, and use my life to reach the lost. Amen.

The Power of God

2010-08-19T07:48:00.000-07:00

The Sadducees didn't believe in resurrection, but tried to trap Jesus by asking about marriage in heaven (Mark 12:18-27). Jesus answered their question, explaining that people didn't need to be married in heaven. But he focused on their disbelief by stating, "First, you don't know the scriptures. Second, you don't understand the power of God."

Scripture is like the air we breathe. We can't survive without it. We need to read it, study it, memorize it, and let it impact what we think, say, and do. But without the power of God, scripture is nothing... our lives are nothing. This is what the Sadducees didn't understand. Resurrection sounds impossible. In fact, outside of God, it is impossible. But the power of God makes all things possible!

I pray for your power to rest on me and in me today, Lord. Thank you for your presence and your Word in my life! Amen.

What Belongs to God?

2010-08-18T06:29:00.000-07:00

As they always tried to do, in Mark 12:13-17, the Pharisees tried to trap Jesus. "Should we pay our taxes?" Jesus showed them Caesar's picture on the coins and said, "Give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar, and give to God what belongs to God."

Every year, we do our taxes and figure out whatbelongs to us and what belongs to the government. But how do we figure out what belongs to God? This is actually an easier process than doing our taxes. God has given us everything we have, so everything we have belongs to God! So we offer our money and possessions to God and ask, "Will you use these things to further your kingdom?" Then we simply listen and follow directions.

You have blessed our lives, Lord, with many gifts and possessions. Use what is already yours to further your kingdom here on earth. Amen.

The Vineyard

2010-03-17T04:37:00.000-07:00

Jesus told a parable , in Mark 12:1-12, about a man who planted a vineyard. He hired farmers to look after it. When the man sent servants to collect fruit from the vineyard, the farmers either beat or killed them. The man then sent his son, thinking they would respect him. They killed him too. Then Jesus asked, "Won't the man have the tenants put to death and give the vineyard to others?"

What does the vineyard represent to us? Is it our own lives? If so, have we received Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior? Is the vineyard our church? If so, how have we received God's Word in our church? Is the vineyard all of God's creation? If so, have we honored Jesus with all He has given us? The message here is to recognize that the vineyard does not belong to us... it belongs to God. And God has sent Jesus Christ to rule the vineyard. How will we receive him?

Lord, we first give thanks for all you have given us, and we gladly give Jesus reign over all that we are and all that we have. Amen.

Claiming Authority

2010-03-15T07:26:00.000-07:00

The church leaders, in Mark 11:27-33, asked Jesus by what authority was he doing his ministry. In response, Jesus asked them by what authority John baptized. They didn't know how to answer, because they were afraid their answer would put them in a tight spot.

Of course, Jesus' authority to do ministry came from God. Do you know that we have the same authority to do ministry? In Matthew 28:18, Jesus proclaims his authority, and then gives it to his disciples. We don't have to wait for a special time to start doing ministry, or for anyone to tell us it's OK. Jesus has already given us the authority. Is there anything standing in the way of you claiming that authority today?

We claim the authority you have given us to do ministry, Lord, and ask that you guide us to the people who are in need of your Love today. Amen.

Faith and Forgiveness

2010-03-11T18:40:00.000-08:00

Jesus challenged his disciples, in Mark 11:20-25, to have faith in God. Mountains can be moved with faith. And when you pray, Jesus taught, do so with that sort of faith. And while praying, be forgiving to others, so that God can forgive you.

Isn't it interesting that Jesus weaves together faith and forgiveness? We usually don't put the two together, but it really makes sense. Can we really claim to have faith in Jesus, yet not be willing to forgive? Can we really forgive, to the fullest measure of humility and grace, without our faith in Jesus? I want to have a deeper faith in my life today. Does that mean I should start working on my forgiveness?

Help me to forgive others, Lord, so that my faith may be strengthened. Amen.

Are We Honoring God?

2010-03-10T08:18:00.000-08:00

Jesus entered the temple, in Mark 11:12-19, and drove out those who were buying and selling merchandise. He taught that the temple should be a house of prayer, not a den of robbers. Because the people were amazed at Jesus' teachings, the chief priests began to look for a way to kill him.

Why did Jesus drive people out of the temple? Because what they were doing was not honoring God. This scripture really challenges us to consider if we are honoring God in our own places of worship. What's even more challenging is when we consider 1 Corinthians 3:16, which says, "Don't you know that you yourselves are God's temple and God's spirit lives in you?" So the real question becomes, "Are we honoring God with our lives?"

Thank you for choosing to live in me, Lord. Show me ways to honor you with my life. Amen.

Giving God Our Best

2009-12-07T06:22:00.000-08:00

Before getting to Jerusalem, in Mark 11:1-11, Jesus instructed his disciples to go get him a colt which no one had ever ridden. They brought him that colt, put their coats on it, and Jesus road it to Jerusalem. People spread their coats and branches on the road. They all shouted out praises to Jesus.

Would it have been easy or hard to give that colt up? Even if the disciples were going to bring it back, wouldn't it have been easier to say, "You can use our old, dependable mule out back." Just like it's easier to give away old clothes, old furniture, or maybe even the old pickup truck. But how often do we read in the scriptures or hear God calling us to give him our leftovers? What we really need to consider is are we willing to give God our best?

What do you need me to give up, Lord, so that your name will be glorified? Amen

Who's allowed to see Jesus?

2009-12-04T06:31:00.000-08:00

A blind man named Bartimaeus, in Mark 10:36-52, called out for Jesus. People told him to be quiet, but he yelled even louder. Jesus called him over, then asked Bartimaeus what he wanted. He told Jesus he wanted to see. Jesus said, "Your faith has healed you." Bartimaeus was immediately healed and followed Jesus.

Why didn't the people want Bartimaeus to be quiet? Didn't they want him to encounter Jesus? Maybe they thought it would waste Jesus' time. Or maybe they thought he didn't meet all the criteria to meet Jesus. We need to be careful that we don't act like these people... that we don't try to regulate who gets to see Jesus and who doesn't. Our job isn't to judge. Our job is to help as many people as we can encounter Jesus. What Jesus does with that encounter is up to him.

Help us to see people like you see them, Lord. Give us opportunities to bring others closer to you. Amen.

Position Vs. Posture

2009-12-02T06:59:00.000-08:00

James and John, in Mark 10:35-45, asked Jesus if they could sit at his right and left sides when he sits on his throne. The other disciples became angry with them for asking Jesus this question. Jesus taught them that he calls his disciples to be servants in the midst of a culture where people always strive to rule over others.

The disciples wanted to be in a position where they would be looking down on others. It's what most people want. Power and authority. But Jesus challenged them to posture themselves so that they would be looking up to everyone: "I'll give you all the power and authority you need... to humble yourselves and make my love known." It's not our position that Jesus is concerned about. It's our posture.

Help us to be like you, Lord. Give us the power, authority, courage, and strength to serve others in your name. Amen.

Jesus Led the Way

2009-11-30T07:16:00.000-08:00

Jesus led the way to Jerusalem, in Mark 10:32-34. He explained to the disciples that when they got there, he would be betrayed to the chief priests. Then he would be mocked, beaten, and killed. He predicted that in three days he would raise from the dead.

What's amazing about this journey to Jerusalem is that Jesus knew what was going to happen to him, yet he went anyway. What's even more amazing is what he was doing during this journey... he was leading the way! Jesus led the way, knowing he would be mocked and spat upon. He led the way, knowing he would be beaten and killed. He led the way, knowing death wouldn't keep him down. He led the way, knowing this was the only way to save us.

Thank you for leading the way, Jesus. Thank you for the salvation you have provided. Amen.

Dependent on God

2009-11-25T07:23:00.000-08:00

A rich man asked Jesus, in Mark 10:17-31, "What must I do to inherit eternal life?" Jesus told the man it's not enough to follow all the commandments. He had to sell all his possessions and give to the poor. The rich man left disappointed. The disciples wondered who could be saved. Jesus answered, "With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible."

The more we have, the easier it is to depend on ourselves. This was the rich man's problem. He didn't need God, because he had everything. To prove it, Jesus said, "Give up everything, and depend on God alone." Like any other dependency, dependence on self is impossible to give up on our own. So we give ourselves up to God. We give him all that we are and all that we have. This is when eternal life begins... when we transfer our dependence from us to God.

I trust in you, Lord. Take my life and form me into the person you want me to be. Amen.

In the Arms Of Jesus

2009-11-16T07:06:00.000-08:00

People brought children to Jesus, in Mark 10:13-16, and wanted him to bless them. The disciples told the people not to bother him. Jesus told the disciples to bring him the children, and taught, "the kingdom of God belongs to such as these." He then took the children in his arms and blessed them.

How do I become like a child? What is in my heart that is keeping me from loving like a child loves? What experiences do I need to let go of that are holding me back? What worries and concerns are detouring my attention to other places? I want to know, because the children are where I want to be... in the arms of Jesus, receiving his blessing.

Help me to become more like a child, Lord, so that I can experience your embrace and blessing. Amen.

The Quick Fix

2009-11-02T06:47:00.000-08:00

The Pharisees asked Jesus, in Mark 10:1-12, if it is lawful to get a divorce. Jesus explained that the law of Moses allowed divorce because peoples' hearts grew hard. He further taught that God created man and woman for marriage, and that man should not separate what God joined together.

The Pharisees asked Jesus, "Can we get a divorce?" What they should have asked was, "How can we change our hearts?" But as we all know, it's so much easier for us to make policies or sign contracts than it is to change our hearts. We want the quick fix... something we can do on our own. But Jesus wants so much more for our lives, our families, and our churches. So whenever we face those crossroads of conflict, we would be better off asking God to do a work in our lives, instead of trying to fix it ourselves.

Will you do not just a small work in our lives, Lord, but a major makeover? Change our hearts so that we can love with your love. Amen.

Cut it out!

2009-10-29T08:57:00.000-07:00

Jesus warns people against causing children to sin, in Mark 9:42-50. He then teaches that if your hand causes you to sin, then cut it off. If your foot causes you to sin, then cut it off. If your eye causes you to sin, then pluck it out. He explained that it's better to be without these things than to be separated from God.

How important is it to you to be united with God? Is it important enough that you would be willing to cut the things out of your life that keep you separated from him? This is a tough question, because there are so many things we believe we cannot live without. But the truth is, the only thing we cannot live without is our relationship with God through Jesus Christ. So what is it that is keeping us from being close to God? Does it need to be cut out?

Show us the things in our lives, Lord, that is separating us from you. Give us the courage to remove those things today. Amen.

A Monopoly on Ministry

2009-10-28T06:47:00.000-07:00

The disciples, in Mark 9:38-41, stopped a man from healing people in Jesus' name because he wasn't one of them. Jesus instructed the disciples not to stop people from doing such ministries, because whoever is not against them is for them.

If God gives us a gift for doing ministry, we have to use it. If God gives us an opportunity to do ministry, we have to take it. We don't have to be a member of a certain organization, church, or committee to do the ministry God has called us to do. We just do it! Nobody has a monopoly on ministry. Nobody can tell us, "You can't do that ministry, because you're not one of us." If we're following God's call, then he will bless it.

Where do you want us to serve, Lord? What would you have us do? Amen.

Who's the greatest?

2009-10-27T06:42:00.000-07:00

Jesus asked the disciples, in Mark 9:33-37, what they were arguing about. They didn't want Jesus to know that they were arguing over who was the greatest. Jesus explained to them that if they wanted to be first, then they needed to be last and serve others. Then he told them that they need to welcome the children in his name.

How we look at being great is different than how Jesus sees it. We want to get promoted at work. Jesus wants everyone at our work to experience his love through us. We want people to know us. Jesus wants people to know him because of us. We want to be recognized because of our hard work. Jesus wants to do a work through us so that people will recognize him. It's not about being the greatest and finishing in first. It's about knowing the greatest and putting him first.

Show us how to finish last, Lord, so that you may be known as the greatest. Amen.

Overcoming Unbelief

2009-10-22T06:21:00.000-07:00

A man brought to Jesus his demon possessed son, in Mark 9:14-32, whom the disciples could not heal. He asked Jesus if he could heal him. Jesus responded, "Anything is possible if you believe." The man answered, "I do believe. Help me overcome my unbelief." Jesus healed the boy, then took his disciples away to teach them.

It sounds like this man believed in Jesus, yet had areas in his life where he struggled with belief. Does that sound familiar? In this man's case, he had a hard time believing because Jesus' disciples had already tried to heal his son, but failed. What's so wonderful about this story is that the man owned his unbelief and asked Jesus to help him overcome it. Jesus responded by healing his son and building up the man's belief. How will we overcome our unbelief?

Search our lives, Lord, and help us overcome the areas where we don't believe. Amen.

Give God Opportunities

2009-10-21T07:55:00.000-07:00

Jesus took Peter, James, and John up a mountain, in Mark 9:1-13. Jesus began to glow, and Moses and Elijah appeared next to him. God's presence surround everyone, and His voice was heard: "This is my son, whom I love, listen to him." Jesus told the disciples not to tell anyone about what happened until he had risen from the dead. They did not understand his words, risen from the dead.

How often do we experience God's presence like those three disciples did? These moments are rare. They are even more rare if we don't take the time to be alone with God... if we aren't spending time in scripture and prayer... if we aren't getting away from our hectic schedules and busy lives. God desires to bless our lives with mountaintop experiences. We just need to give God the opportunities to bless us.

Help us to get away, Lord, so that we may be able to receive your blessings. Amen.

Kingdom Thinking

2009-10-15T06:51:00.000-07:00

Jesus taught, in Mark 8:31-38, that he would be killed and then rise again in three days. After Peter expressed his displeasure with Jesus' words, Jesus told Peter that he was not thinking from God's point of view. Jesus then went on to teach about taking up your cross and losing your life for the sake of gaining Jesus and eternal life.

One of the most difficult things to do, when life gets tough, is to think about things from God's point of view. Our tendency is to try to control situations so that the immediate results will be favorable to us right now. Jesus told Peter, "Start doing some Kingdom thinking! You're only thinking about yourself! God is thinking about the whole world!"

Help us to do some Kingdom thinking today, Lord. Amen.

Be Confident

2009-10-14T06:59:00.000-07:00

Jesus asked his disciples, in Mark 8:26-30, who people thought he was. They answered, "John the Baptist. Elijah. A prophet." Then Jesus asked the disciples who they thought he was. Peter answered, "You are the Christ."

People at work will try to define Jesus for you. People at school will try to define Jesus for you. People in the media will try to define Jesus for you. But unless these people have Jesus in their hearts, they will never understand. You have Jesus in your heart. You have made him your savior. You already call him Lord, Savior, and Messiah. Be confident in who you say Jesus is!

We thank you, Jesus, for being Lord, Savior, and Messiah in our lives. Amen.

The Healing Process

2009-10-13T08:54:00.000-07:00

People brought to Jesus a blind man, in Mark 8:21-26. Jesus spit into his own hands and then touched the man's eyes. He asked if he could see anything. The man said he could see people, but they were blurry. After Jesus touched his eyes a second time, his eyes were opened and he could see clearly.

Can you imagine how different this story would be if the man left Jesus after the first touch? I can hear him say something like, "I tried the Jesus thing, but it didn't do much for me." But this is not how it happened. The man understood that the healing process was exactly that... a process! Often times we pray for healing, but aren't willing to endure the process. If we are going to pray for healing, we need to trust that Jesus knows what he's doing.

Touch our lives, Lord. Heal our hurts. Amen.

Growing Closer to God

2009-10-12T07:04:00.000-07:00

"Watch out for the yeast of the Pharisees," Jesus warned in Mark 8:14-21. The disciples thought he was talking about the fact they didn't have any bread. Jesus asked why they didn't understand. He reminded them of the two different times he fed the crowds with just a small amount of fish and loaves.

Yeast is the ingredient that inflates the dough... it makes the dough rise. Jesus is telling the disciples that the Pharisees' words are like bad yeast. They are harmful, and will prevent people from growing. Are we trying to grow with bad yeast? Is there anything in our lives that is keeping us from growing closer to God?

Our desire, Lord, is to grow closer to you. Show us the things in our lives that are preventing us from doing so. Amen.

Participating In Miracles

2009-10-08T06:55:00.000-07:00

Jesus had compassion on a large crowd, in Mark 8:1-13. They had been following him for several days, and had not eaten anything. Jesus gave 7 loaves and a few fish to his disciples so they could distribute them to the people. They ate until they were satisfied. The Pharisees told Jesus to perform another miracle to prove he was of God. Jesus did not do it.

Notice that Jesus didn't distribute the fish and loaves himself, but gave the disciples that opportunity. As a result, the disciples didn't just witness this miracle, but they participated in this miracle. Isn't this how people begin to believe in and take ownership of ministries? We invite them to be a part of what God is doing. Do you think the disciples understood Jesus' mission a little better that day? Do you think their faith grew a little stronger? What ways are you participating in what God is doing? How are you including other people in that ministry?

Thank you, Lord, for allowing us to distribute the fish and loaves. Show us ways in which we can include others as well. Amen.

Away From the Crowds

2009-10-07T06:57:00.000-07:00

Some people, in Mark 7:31-37, brought to Jesus a deaf and mute man. Jesus pulled the man away from the crowd. He touched his ears, then spit and touched his tongue. He spoke the words, "Be open," and the man was able to speak and hear.

Why did Jesus pull the man away from the crowd? Couldn't he have performed this miracle among all the people? I'm sure he could have, but what do we know of our own lives? Jesus is willing to touch our lives, but we are too busy to allow him. So he pulls away. Away from our business. Away from the crowd. It's during these times, when it's just us and Jesus, that we allow him to work in our lives. It's during these times when we experience his miracles.

Pull us away from the crowds, Lord, so that we may experience your miracles in our lives. Amen.

We Need You, Too!

2009-10-02T07:55:00.000-07:00

A Greek woman, in Mark 7:24-30, asked Jesus if he would heal her daughter who was possessed by demons. Jesus told her it's not right for the children's bread to go to the dogs. The woman responded by saying, "but even the dogs eat the children's crumbs." Because of this response, Jesus healed her daughter.

Basically, Jesus asks this woman, "Why do you want me to tend to your daughter when my ministry is focused on the Jews?" The Greek woman's response is simple... "We need you, too." It's so easy for us to minister to those people who look like us, talk like us, think like us, and live like us. But the reality is that everybody needs Jesus. How can we minister, today, to those who aren't like us?

Show us ways, Lord, that we can reach out to those who are not like us. Amen.

Jesus' Eyes

2009-09-28T07:17:00.000-07:00

Once again, in Mark 7:1-23, the Pharisees confronted Jesus. They said the disciples were unclean because they did not perform the traditional ceremonial washing of the hands before they ate. Jesus told the Pharisees that they had traded in the commands of God for the traditions of men. He explained that what comes from people's hearts is what makes them clean or unclean.

Anybody can disguise their outside so they can appear to be clean. But nobody can disguise their hearts. Just like the Pharisees, we tend to see people's faults, and then judge them according to our traditions and standards. We tend to look at people from the outside in. Jesus looks at people from the inside out. He starts with people's hearts. We need eyes like Jesus' eyes.

Give us your vision, Lord. Help us to see people like you see them. Amen.

Get In the Boat

2009-09-26T11:09:00.000-07:00

The disciples went out in a boat, in Mark 6:45-56, while Jesus went off to pray. Jesus walked out on the lake. Because they did not recognize him, the disciples were afraid. He said told them, "Take courage. It is I." Then he climbed into the boat with them. When they reached land, people brought to Jesus those who in need of healing.

The disciples didn't know what to make of Jesus. They had just witnessed him multiply the fish and the loaves. They had even taken Jesus' authority and healed others. Yet they were still amazed because they didn't understand (verse 52). They didn't get it! So what did Jesus do? He got in the boat. He spent more time with them. Most people don't get Christianity right away. They need us to be patient. They need us to spend more time with them. They need us to get in the boat.

Teach us, Lord, how to lead like you lead. Amen.

A Quite Place

2009-09-24T10:14:00.000-07:00

The disciples came back from doing ministry, in Mark 6:30-44, and reported to Jesus everything they had done. Jesus took them in a boat so they could be by themselves. But a large crowd, over 5,000 people, met up with the disciples where they had docked. Jesus taught the crowd, and then fed everyone with only 5 loves and 2 fish.

Even though Jesus ended up teaching and feeding all these people, his original plan was to spend some quiet time with his disciples: "Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place to get some rest" (verse 31). It was Jesus' way of rewarding the disciples for a job well done. How often do you reward yourself after doing ministry? Do you spend much time resting in a quiet place... just you and Jesus?

Show us not only when and where to rest, Lord, but also show us how to rest. Amen.

How do you explain Jesus?

2009-09-23T06:38:00.000-07:00

King Herod, in Mark 6:14-29, had John the Baptist beheaded, at the request of his wife's daughter. When he heard of Jesus' rise in popularity, Herod thought that John had been raised from the dead. Others thought Jesus was Elijah. Still others thought he was a prophet.

The real question is how do you explain Jesus? Is he just another good guy, or is he King of Kings and Lord of Lords? Is he nothing but a historical figure, or is he your savior and redeemer? The evidence in our lives proves that Jesus is more than just a man. Who do you say Jesus is?

Thank you, Jesus, for being our King... our Lord... our Savior... our Redeemer! Amen.

Just Go

2009-09-21T10:45:00.001-07:00

Jesus gave his disciples authority, in Mark 6:7-13, to preach and cast out evil spirits. He instructed them to not bring anything with them, and count on the people to offer food and shelter. He also told them if people did not receive them, to simply shake the dust off their feet and leave. The disciples went out and preached, casted out demons, and anointed sick people.

How much ministry can we accomplish when we claim the authority of Jesus Christ? This is actually a trick question, because we will never know how much unless we actually claim that authority and go out and do it! The disciples' ministry, in Mark 6, was pretty amazing. God still wants to do amazing things through his disciples today. We just simply need to go do it!

Give us the courage to simply go out and do your work, Lord. Amen.

Who Defines You?

2009-09-19T17:43:00.000-07:00

Jesus went to his home town, in Mark 6:1-6, and began teaching in the synagogue. The people took offense to his teachings. They knew him from when he grew up in that town. Jesus said, "Only in his own town is a prophet without honor." Jesus was amazed that they lacked faith, and went on teaching in other places.

What if Jesus allowed his hometown folk to define who he was? What if he believed them when they told him he couldn't possibly be anything special? What if, from that point on, Jesus agreed with them, and never again left his home town? But he didn't agree with them. And neither should we agree with people who try to define who we are! People want to contain us. God wants to set us free. So who do you think should define you?

Help us to find our true identity in you, Lord. Amen.

Make Christ Known... Not Us

2009-09-17T10:06:00.000-07:00

On his way to heal a young girl, in Mark 5:21-43, a sick woman touched the edge of Jesus' robe. Jesus stopped, and told the woman that her faith had healed her. When Jesus reached the house of the young girl, people told Jesus she had died. Jesus spoke to the girl to get up, and she did. Jesus instructed everyone to not let anyone know what happened.

This is not the first time Jesus instructed people to not tell others about what he had done. My first thought is that he didn't want to be swamped by people all the time. But maybe he was simply saying, "I did this for you, and not for the fame." Isn't this why we minister to people? We do it to make Christ known... not to make us known!

Use me, Lord, for your glory... not mine. Amen.

Make Us Uncomfortable

2009-09-16T06:57:00.000-07:00

Jesus met a demon possessed man, in Mark 5:1-20. He commanded the demons to leave the man and go into a heard of pigs. The pigs then drowned themselves in a lake. All the people in that region wanted Jesus to leave. The man who was healed wanted to travel with Jesus, but Jesus told him to stay and tell his family what the Lord had done.

Why did everyone want Jesus to leave? Maybe they were used to having that demon possessed man around. Maybe they were afraid of what else Jesus might make different in their lives. Isn't it ironic that most people are OK with Jesus, just as long as we are simply singing about him and worshipping him from a distance? But once Jesus starts becoming personal in our lives, we become uncomfortable.

If being uncomfortable is how we feel when your are personal in our lives, Lord, then make us uncomfortable all the time. Amen.

What More Do You Need?

2009-09-15T09:54:00.000-07:00

Jesus and his disciples, in Mark 4:35-41, were on a boat during a storm. Jesus was sleeping. The disciples woke him up, and asked, "Don't you care if we drown?" He woke up, calmed the storm, then asked, "Why are you afraid? Do you still have no faith?"

Do you still have no faith? Jesus asked his disciples this after they had experienced, firsthand, who he really was. They saw him heal the sick and drive out demons. They not only had front row seats to all his sermons, but also had time alone with the teacher, himself. After calming the storms, Jesus asks the disciples, "What more do you need?" My guess is that he could ask all of us that same question. We experience Jesus' miracles in our lives all the time, yet often lack faith in him.

Show us how to build up our faith in you, Lord. Amen.

Impacting the Kingdom

2009-09-14T06:40:00.000-07:00

Jesus compared the Kingdom of God to a mustard seed, in Mark 4:30-34. It starts out as the smallest seed. But when it grows, it becomes a large enough plant that birds can perch in its shade.

When we share our faith with a friend or neighbor, we are impacting the kingdom of God. That little seed of sharing will grow into something beautiful. Sometimes we get to be part of that growth. Sometimes others will cultivate the growth. The beautiful part of this process is that our one seed has the capability to turn into two seeds... three seeds... and possibly many more!

Thank you, Lord, for allowing us to have an impact on your Kingdom. Amen.

Scattering Seeds

2009-09-11T06:15:00.000-07:00

Jesus compares the kingdom of God, in Mark 4:26-29, to a man who scatters seeds. The seeds grow, whether or not the man is asleep or awake. He doesn't know how they grow. They just do. Soon, the seeds will grow into a grain that will someday be ready for harvest.

We are to be the seed scatterers in this world. We scatter the seeds of God's love and his plan of salvation. Most of the time, we don't know whether or not the seeds are growing. What we do know is that they can't grow if we don't scatter them... if we don't share our faith! God can use us only if we are willing to be used!

Give me the courage, Lord, to scatter seeds today. Amen.

Share Your Stuff

2009-09-10T06:23:00.000-07:00

Jesus talks about a lamp, in Mark 4:21-25. He pointed out that you don't cover up a lamp when you turn it on, but you put it on a lamp stand so that it will shine light. Jesus then talked about not concealing whatever is given to you. However much you give, even more will be given to you.

How many of our possessions have been acquired outside of God's blessings? None of them! All that we have is due to the fact that God has given us the means and the opportunities. Keeping our "stuff" to ourselves is just like turning on the light and covering it up. Wouldn't it make more sense to share whatever God has given us to bring others closer to Him?

Thank you, Lord, for allowing me to have so much. Give me opportunities, today, to share those blessings with others. Amen.

We Desire Good Soil

2009-09-09T07:25:00.000-07:00

Jesus told a parable, in Mark 4:1-20, about a farmer planting seeds. Some of the seeds fell on the path, some in the rocks, others among the thorns, and some in good soil. Later, Jesus explained to the disciples that the seeds represent the Word of God. That word can be taken away by Satan, be scorched by persecution, choked by worries, or accepted and multiplied.

How can we make sure our soil is good soil? How can we make sure that the Word of God is received in our lives in a way that it produces good fruits? We do this by giving God more and more of ourselves each day. We grow in our faith little by little. We trust that God knows what he's doing with our lives and in our lives. God will work the soil in our lives in a way that his Word will be richly received.

Our desire, Lord, is to receive your Word in our lives. Do a work in us so that your Word will be richly received. Amen.

Related to Jesus

2009-09-08T06:23:00.000-07:00

Jesus' mother and brothers, in Mark 3:31-35, arrived where Jesus was teaching. They sent someone in to get him. When Jesus was told his mother and brothers were there, he said that all who do God's will are his brothers, sisters, and mother.

What does it mean to be related to Jesus? The first thing that comes to mind is the closeness. We think of the bond between siblings, and are reminded that Jesus desires that same bond with us. But even more than that, because we are immediate family, we also enjoy the same inheritance as Jesus. This inheritance is everlasting life with our Father in heaven!

Thank you, Lord for allowing us to be part of the family. Thank you for making it possible to spend eternity with you! Amen.

Learn From Each Other

2009-09-05T08:02:00.000-07:00

The teachers of the law, in Mark 3:20-30, said Jesus was possessed by Satan: "By demons he drives out demons." Jesus asked them how Satan could drive out Satan. He argued that if a kingdom is divided against itself, it cannot stand.

Why did the teachers of the law say Jesus was evil? Was it because he was able to do things they weren't able to do? Was it because he was attracting large crowds? Successful ministries, today, get the same criticism. They are able to do ministries that many of us aren't able to do, while attracting large crowds. We often hear the complaint that they must be evil, or at least doing things that aren't Biblical. With such ministries, we have an opportunity to not act like the teachers of the law, but to to learn all that we can to multiply God's kingdom.

Heal our critical spirit, Lord. Help us to learn from one another. Amen.