DAY 130
1-31-10
1 CHRONICLES 11-13
Good Morning!
When David was anointed King, he had to fight to consolidate his power and rule over all Israel. Often, David did not know who was with him or against him - even in his own family and court. One thing that got David through these trying times was his “mighty men.” They were fellow warriors who supported him and had his back.
1 Chron. 12:18 Then the Spirit came upon Amasai, chief of the Thirty, and he said: "We are yours, O David! We are with you, O son of Jesse! Success, success to you, and success to those who help you, for your God will help you."
Don’t ever discount the need for friends and partners in your life. Knowing we have close friends and family that support, protect, and encourage us will keep us going when we might quit. They hold us accountable. They help us feel at ease when we are stressed.
David’s son wrote years later in Ecclesiastes 4:9-12, “Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work: If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up! Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.”
Support your friends and family. Back each other up. Show them Christ’s love because love is rare in this world.
Barry
Sunday, January 31, 2010
Saturday, January 30, 2010
The Battle Around You
DAY 129
1-30-10
1 CHRONICLES 8-10
Good Morning!
It’s good to be reminded about Saul. He did not walk with God. He had every chance to do so. Saul wasn’t chosen to fail. He could have been a great king. It seems to me that the pressure of leadership overwhelmed him. He was not evil like Ahab. Saul simply did not trust in God. So when life battles overwhelmed him he fell. It all just closed up around him and he was overwhelmed.
1 Chron 10:3 The fighting grew fierce around Saul, and when the archers overtook him, they wounded him.
God would have helped Saul – but Saul didn’t trust God. When the battles of life start to overwhelm you, trust in God, pray, and seek godly help. There is no battle that God will not help you have the victory.
Barry
1-30-10
1 CHRONICLES 8-10
Good Morning!
It’s good to be reminded about Saul. He did not walk with God. He had every chance to do so. Saul wasn’t chosen to fail. He could have been a great king. It seems to me that the pressure of leadership overwhelmed him. He was not evil like Ahab. Saul simply did not trust in God. So when life battles overwhelmed him he fell. It all just closed up around him and he was overwhelmed.
1 Chron 10:3 The fighting grew fierce around Saul, and when the archers overtook him, they wounded him.
God would have helped Saul – but Saul didn’t trust God. When the battles of life start to overwhelm you, trust in God, pray, and seek godly help. There is no battle that God will not help you have the victory.
Barry
Friday, January 29, 2010
We Live in the Promised Land
DAY 128
1-29-10
1 CHRONICLES 6-7
Good Morning!
Did you notice how the Promise Land was divided by casting lots? Drawing straws; or in our modern usage, the “flip of the coin”? With so many families and clans, the land needed to be divided fairly. They all needed pastures and water; and a fair division of the land would help insure that everyone got what they needed; and got along afterward.
It’s a simple message, but an important one. After coming so far from slavery in Egypt; then wandering in the desert for 40 years; then to the conquest of the land of Canaan; it all comes down to who gets what and how much. God is fair. It is obvious that God directs the distribution of the land. Unlike man, he always does what is right and fair. He has a reason for everything.
From one man he made every nation of men, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and he determined the times set for them and the exact places where they should live. God did this so that men would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him, though he is not far from each one of us. (Acts 17:26-28)
Our life and where we live it, is a matter of God’s will. We are where we are to be a shining light of truth and salvation; and to give God the glory in everything. We all live in the land of promise – given to us by the God of heaven. Yes! Even Pasadena! Believe it or not.
Barry
1-29-10
1 CHRONICLES 6-7
Good Morning!
Did you notice how the Promise Land was divided by casting lots? Drawing straws; or in our modern usage, the “flip of the coin”? With so many families and clans, the land needed to be divided fairly. They all needed pastures and water; and a fair division of the land would help insure that everyone got what they needed; and got along afterward.
It’s a simple message, but an important one. After coming so far from slavery in Egypt; then wandering in the desert for 40 years; then to the conquest of the land of Canaan; it all comes down to who gets what and how much. God is fair. It is obvious that God directs the distribution of the land. Unlike man, he always does what is right and fair. He has a reason for everything.
From one man he made every nation of men, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and he determined the times set for them and the exact places where they should live. God did this so that men would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him, though he is not far from each one of us. (Acts 17:26-28)
Our life and where we live it, is a matter of God’s will. We are where we are to be a shining light of truth and salvation; and to give God the glory in everything. We all live in the land of promise – given to us by the God of heaven. Yes! Even Pasadena! Believe it or not.
Barry
Thursday, January 28, 2010
If You Blink, You’ll Miss a Powerful Lesson
DAY 127
1-28-10
1 CHRONICLES 3-5
Good Morning!
You have to read carefully when you read through the genealogies and records in the Bible. It’s like mining. Dig carefully and you can up with a priceless gem. We have a gem today!
1 Chron 4:9-10 Jabez was more honorable than his brothers. His mother had named him Jabez, saying, "I gave birth to him in pain." Jabez cried out to the God of Israel, "Oh, that you would bless me and enlarge my territory! Let your hand be with me, and keep me from harm so that I will be free from pain." And God granted his request.
Jabez was a man of honor. His mother gave birth to him in pain. The name “Jabez” can actually be interpreted to mean “sorrow” or “he causes pain.” His prayer to God was simple – please bless me and take care of me. God granted his request.
What a powerful and simple prayer. What a good God to grant it.
Thank you, heavenly father, for teaching us powerful lessons when we might be tempted to skip over them. Open our eyes to your simple blessings.
Barry
1-28-10
1 CHRONICLES 3-5
Good Morning!
You have to read carefully when you read through the genealogies and records in the Bible. It’s like mining. Dig carefully and you can up with a priceless gem. We have a gem today!
1 Chron 4:9-10 Jabez was more honorable than his brothers. His mother had named him Jabez, saying, "I gave birth to him in pain." Jabez cried out to the God of Israel, "Oh, that you would bless me and enlarge my territory! Let your hand be with me, and keep me from harm so that I will be free from pain." And God granted his request.
Jabez was a man of honor. His mother gave birth to him in pain. The name “Jabez” can actually be interpreted to mean “sorrow” or “he causes pain.” His prayer to God was simple – please bless me and take care of me. God granted his request.
What a powerful and simple prayer. What a good God to grant it.
Thank you, heavenly father, for teaching us powerful lessons when we might be tempted to skip over them. Open our eyes to your simple blessings.
Barry
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Repeating History
DAY 126
1-27-10
1 CHRONICLES 1-2
Good Morning!
I can hear it now! Oh no! More genealogies! What can I possible learn from this again? Don’t give in to the temptation to skip the first few chapters.
What you’ll see is just how far you’ve read and what God has done through all these people and families. Notice that God worked his plan out through the righteous and the unrighteous. Recall all the tragedies that many went through and survived. Remember all the righteous judgment God poured down on their heads. Don’t forget all the grace and mercy of a forgiving God.
The Chronicles will repeat episodes in the life of the kings and remind us of what God did for Israel and to Israel. So, be disciplined, and you will be blessed.
Enjoy!
Barry
1-27-10
1 CHRONICLES 1-2
Good Morning!
I can hear it now! Oh no! More genealogies! What can I possible learn from this again? Don’t give in to the temptation to skip the first few chapters.
What you’ll see is just how far you’ve read and what God has done through all these people and families. Notice that God worked his plan out through the righteous and the unrighteous. Recall all the tragedies that many went through and survived. Remember all the righteous judgment God poured down on their heads. Don’t forget all the grace and mercy of a forgiving God.
The Chronicles will repeat episodes in the life of the kings and remind us of what God did for Israel and to Israel. So, be disciplined, and you will be blessed.
Enjoy!
Barry
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
God Was Right After All
DAY 125
1-26-10
2 KINGS 24-25
Good Morning!
There is really no lesson today except to remember that God’s promises never fail. God promised to bless his people. He required them to love him and keep his commandments. When they did so, God overwhelmed them with physical and spiritual blessings. God warned them that if they refused to obey him, they would end up in captivity. God is a promise keeper. It all happened exactly as God said it would.
2 Kings 24:20 These things happened because of the Lord's anger against the people of Jerusalem and Judah, until he finally banished them from his presence and sent them into exile.
2 Kings 25:21 So the people of Judah were sent into exile from their land.
Before we move on to 1st and 2nd Chronicles, firmly secure in your mind what we’ve learned about the blessings of faith and obedience; and the consequences of sin. The difference is unmistakable. The lessons are undeniable.
Love God. Serve him. Obey him. Trust him. Learn the lessons from faithless Israel. Keep in mind that no sinner is beyond God’s grace if they repent.
Barry
Everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. (Romans 15:4)
1-26-10
2 KINGS 24-25
Good Morning!
There is really no lesson today except to remember that God’s promises never fail. God promised to bless his people. He required them to love him and keep his commandments. When they did so, God overwhelmed them with physical and spiritual blessings. God warned them that if they refused to obey him, they would end up in captivity. God is a promise keeper. It all happened exactly as God said it would.
2 Kings 24:20 These things happened because of the Lord's anger against the people of Jerusalem and Judah, until he finally banished them from his presence and sent them into exile.
2 Kings 25:21 So the people of Judah were sent into exile from their land.
Before we move on to 1st and 2nd Chronicles, firmly secure in your mind what we’ve learned about the blessings of faith and obedience; and the consequences of sin. The difference is unmistakable. The lessons are undeniable.
Love God. Serve him. Obey him. Trust him. Learn the lessons from faithless Israel. Keep in mind that no sinner is beyond God’s grace if they repent.
Barry
Everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. (Romans 15:4)
Monday, January 25, 2010
Are You in the Habit Yet?
DAY 124
1-25-10
2 KINGS 21-23
Good Morning!
My exact, “scientific research” has shown me that on average, it takes 21 days to make or break a habit. Others say it can be as long as 8 weeks to 3 months. So much for science.
If you are trying to read your Bible every day for one year, you are 124 days into your new habit. That’s over 17 weeks. It’s a great feeling to read every day. It’s an even better feeling to know that God will neither save us nor condemn us by how often we read the Bible. He just wants us to be in the word for rest of our lives.
I am touched by the response of King Josiah when he finds out the Law was found during a construction project in the temple. How did the law get lost? How does word of God get lost in our lives? When God’s people fail to make it a part of their every day life.
When the law was found and read, it became a catalyst for change. The covenant was renewed. Obedience was restored. Pagan worship was destroyed. Hearts were brought back to God. All that can happen to you and more if you make the Word of God a part of your life. Don’t let it get lost. Too much is at stake.
We always worry about stopping unhealthy habits. How about starting a healthy one? Read your Bible every day!
Barry
Teach me your decrees, O Lord; I will keep them to the end. Give me understanding and I will obey your instructions; I will put them into practice with all my heart. Make me walk along the path of your commands, for that is where my happiness is found. (Psalm 119:33-35)
1-25-10
2 KINGS 21-23
Good Morning!
My exact, “scientific research” has shown me that on average, it takes 21 days to make or break a habit. Others say it can be as long as 8 weeks to 3 months. So much for science.
If you are trying to read your Bible every day for one year, you are 124 days into your new habit. That’s over 17 weeks. It’s a great feeling to read every day. It’s an even better feeling to know that God will neither save us nor condemn us by how often we read the Bible. He just wants us to be in the word for rest of our lives.
I am touched by the response of King Josiah when he finds out the Law was found during a construction project in the temple. How did the law get lost? How does word of God get lost in our lives? When God’s people fail to make it a part of their every day life.
When the law was found and read, it became a catalyst for change. The covenant was renewed. Obedience was restored. Pagan worship was destroyed. Hearts were brought back to God. All that can happen to you and more if you make the Word of God a part of your life. Don’t let it get lost. Too much is at stake.
We always worry about stopping unhealthy habits. How about starting a healthy one? Read your Bible every day!
Barry
Teach me your decrees, O Lord; I will keep them to the end. Give me understanding and I will obey your instructions; I will put them into practice with all my heart. Make me walk along the path of your commands, for that is where my happiness is found. (Psalm 119:33-35)
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Something For When You Are Desperate
DAY 123
1-24-10
2 KINGS 18-20
Good Morning!
When you are desperate, read 2 Kings 18-20. Finally, we come to a really good king – Hezekiah. He walked with God like David did. He destroyed all the idols and high places. He kept the law. If there is anything negative, he was scared of Assyria and agreed to pay tribute to buy off an invasion. The Assyrian king threatened to attack any way. Hezekiah learned a good lesson about trusting God.
The really inspiring thing about Hezekiah is that he sat on the floor of the temple and spread out the threatening letter from the Assyrian king and basically asked God to read it. Through the prophet Isaiah, Hezekiah was told that God would take care of the Assyrians. One night, when the Assyrians were camped, the angel of the Lord killed 185,000 Assyrian soldiers and the king and the rest of the army ran home. The king was later killed by the sword – all as God predicted.
When things seem out of control; when disaster seems imminent; when you don’t know what to do – lay it all out before God and ask him to help you. In God’s own way; in his time; with your good in mind; God will deliver you. He will help you stand. Even if the answer is as hard as the question, God will help you overcome.
What an awesome God we serve.
Barry
(Matthew 7:7-8 & 11) Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened…how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!
1-24-10
2 KINGS 18-20
Good Morning!
When you are desperate, read 2 Kings 18-20. Finally, we come to a really good king – Hezekiah. He walked with God like David did. He destroyed all the idols and high places. He kept the law. If there is anything negative, he was scared of Assyria and agreed to pay tribute to buy off an invasion. The Assyrian king threatened to attack any way. Hezekiah learned a good lesson about trusting God.
The really inspiring thing about Hezekiah is that he sat on the floor of the temple and spread out the threatening letter from the Assyrian king and basically asked God to read it. Through the prophet Isaiah, Hezekiah was told that God would take care of the Assyrians. One night, when the Assyrians were camped, the angel of the Lord killed 185,000 Assyrian soldiers and the king and the rest of the army ran home. The king was later killed by the sword – all as God predicted.
When things seem out of control; when disaster seems imminent; when you don’t know what to do – lay it all out before God and ask him to help you. In God’s own way; in his time; with your good in mind; God will deliver you. He will help you stand. Even if the answer is as hard as the question, God will help you overcome.
What an awesome God we serve.
Barry
(Matthew 7:7-8 & 11) Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened…how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!
Friday, January 22, 2010
Pushed to the Limit
DAY 123
1-22-10
2 KINGS 14-17
Good Morning!
I’m excited about the WR 2010 Men’s Retreat. I’ll comment on todays and tomorrow’s reading so I can chill with the brothers with no computer on Saturday.
The God of grace, mercy, patience, and love has limits to what he puts up with. Many believers make a mistake when they concentrate on the grace of God, while ignoring the fact that he is a righteous, just, and holy God, with holy expectations for his people. God loved on Israel; he blessed them; he sent warning after warning; and still showed mercy. That is the kind of loving God we serve.
However, God’s justice required that Israel be punished. If they won’t repent after receiving God’s blessings; and won’t repent at the prophets preaching; then the only thing left to do is shake them up with captivity. So they are “swept away from the Lord’s presence.”
God gives his reasons in chapter 17. Here are excerpts from 2 Kings 17:5-23…
This disaster came upon the people of Israel because they worshiped other gods. They had followed the practices of the pagan nations, secretly done many things that were not pleasing to the Lord, worshiped idols, despite the Lord's specific and repeated warnings. Again and again the Lord had sent his prophets and seers to warn both Israel and Judah: “Turn from all your evil ways.” But the Israelites would not listen. They were as stubborn as their ancestors who had refused to believe in the Lord their God. They rejected his decrees and the covenant he had made with their ancestors, and they despised all his warnings. They did not turn from these sins until the Lord finally swept them away from his presence.
The lessons for us are obvious.
Barry
1-22-10
2 KINGS 14-17
Good Morning!
I’m excited about the WR 2010 Men’s Retreat. I’ll comment on todays and tomorrow’s reading so I can chill with the brothers with no computer on Saturday.
The God of grace, mercy, patience, and love has limits to what he puts up with. Many believers make a mistake when they concentrate on the grace of God, while ignoring the fact that he is a righteous, just, and holy God, with holy expectations for his people. God loved on Israel; he blessed them; he sent warning after warning; and still showed mercy. That is the kind of loving God we serve.
However, God’s justice required that Israel be punished. If they won’t repent after receiving God’s blessings; and won’t repent at the prophets preaching; then the only thing left to do is shake them up with captivity. So they are “swept away from the Lord’s presence.”
God gives his reasons in chapter 17. Here are excerpts from 2 Kings 17:5-23…
This disaster came upon the people of Israel because they worshiped other gods. They had followed the practices of the pagan nations, secretly done many things that were not pleasing to the Lord, worshiped idols, despite the Lord's specific and repeated warnings. Again and again the Lord had sent his prophets and seers to warn both Israel and Judah: “Turn from all your evil ways.” But the Israelites would not listen. They were as stubborn as their ancestors who had refused to believe in the Lord their God. They rejected his decrees and the covenant he had made with their ancestors, and they despised all his warnings. They did not turn from these sins until the Lord finally swept them away from his presence.
The lessons for us are obvious.
Barry
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Taking Advantage of God’s Grace
DAY 123
1-21-10
2 KINGS 11-13
Good Morning!
This morning we see more kings (and a queen); and more drama of ungodly people. There are some bright spots, however. God’s people are still fighting and winning over Baal. Joash is a fairly good king; and Jehoahaz is not as bad as the others.
One problem still remains – even when they get a fairly good leader, the leader only goes so far. It seems that the kings were fine with destroying Baal and his temple again, but they won’t touch the high places where personal pagan worship still went on. It’s almost like they were satisfied with a partial cleansing of paganism and didn’t want to push it too far. Although God is never satisfied with anything but full devotion, God is shown to be patient with his problem children.
2 Kings 13:23 The Lord was gracious and merciful to the people of Israel, and they were not totally destroyed. He pitied them because of his covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. And to this day he still has not completely destroyed them or banished them from his presence.
This is our life. Full devotion is a struggle for us. Were up; were down; were sideways. Our inconsistency, however, is not a surprise to God. He is gracious and merciful and will not destroy us because of his covenant with us.
Now…that doesn’t mean that full devotion and consistent faith is out of our reach. God still demands it. I am reminded that the Bible teaches that we can take advantage of God’s grace by accepting his forgiveness and not make the necessary changes in our lives.
Romans 6:1-2 Should we keep on sinning so that God can show us more and more of his wonderful grace? Of course not! Since we have died to sin, how can we continue to live in it?
Thank God for his grace and mercy. Let it be our motivator to put away ALL sin from our lives.
Barry
1-21-10
2 KINGS 11-13
Good Morning!
This morning we see more kings (and a queen); and more drama of ungodly people. There are some bright spots, however. God’s people are still fighting and winning over Baal. Joash is a fairly good king; and Jehoahaz is not as bad as the others.
One problem still remains – even when they get a fairly good leader, the leader only goes so far. It seems that the kings were fine with destroying Baal and his temple again, but they won’t touch the high places where personal pagan worship still went on. It’s almost like they were satisfied with a partial cleansing of paganism and didn’t want to push it too far. Although God is never satisfied with anything but full devotion, God is shown to be patient with his problem children.
2 Kings 13:23 The Lord was gracious and merciful to the people of Israel, and they were not totally destroyed. He pitied them because of his covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. And to this day he still has not completely destroyed them or banished them from his presence.
This is our life. Full devotion is a struggle for us. Were up; were down; were sideways. Our inconsistency, however, is not a surprise to God. He is gracious and merciful and will not destroy us because of his covenant with us.
Now…that doesn’t mean that full devotion and consistent faith is out of our reach. God still demands it. I am reminded that the Bible teaches that we can take advantage of God’s grace by accepting his forgiveness and not make the necessary changes in our lives.
Romans 6:1-2 Should we keep on sinning so that God can show us more and more of his wonderful grace? Of course not! Since we have died to sin, how can we continue to live in it?
Thank God for his grace and mercy. Let it be our motivator to put away ALL sin from our lives.
Barry
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
The Testimony of the Outhouse
DAY 122
1-20-10
2 KINGS 9-10
Good Morning!
When Elijah was God’s prophet, he prophesied that God would completely destroy the family and dynasty of Ahab and Jezebel. God raised up Jehu – anointed to be the king of Israel and God’s instrument of justice. In a very bloody way, Jezebel, Ahab’s seventy sons, and even their friends were killed. Then, God used Jehu to destroy all those who worshiped Baal.
In a very graphic public testimony of God’s displeasure with Israel, he used Jehu to destroy the temple of Baal and leave the ruins to be a public bathroom – a latrine; an outhouse! 2 Kings 10:27 They demolished the sacred stone of Baal and tore down the temple of Baal, and people have used it for a latrine to this day.
Living like the world stinks! Following false gods is nasty. Dishonoring the One True and Living God is a public testimony that a person loves world and not him.
I pray that all of us will be a testimony to the goodness and beauty of God. I hope that God will consider our lives; devotions; and prayers as a sweet aroma, not a filthy stench.
One last thing about Jehu – although God was pleased with how he fulfilled his assignment, Jehu did not completely get rid of the idolatrous sin in his life.
2 Kings 10:28 & 31 Jehu destroyed Baal worship in Israel..yet Jehu was not careful to keep the law of the Lord, the God of Israel, with all his heart. He did not turn away from the sins of Jeroboam, which he had caused Israel to commit.
Go all the way with your life of faith. Be devoted completely to God. Do not love the world or anything in the world. Let there be no hint of immorality.
God will bless those who are fully devoted to him.
Barry
1-20-10
2 KINGS 9-10
Good Morning!
When Elijah was God’s prophet, he prophesied that God would completely destroy the family and dynasty of Ahab and Jezebel. God raised up Jehu – anointed to be the king of Israel and God’s instrument of justice. In a very bloody way, Jezebel, Ahab’s seventy sons, and even their friends were killed. Then, God used Jehu to destroy all those who worshiped Baal.
In a very graphic public testimony of God’s displeasure with Israel, he used Jehu to destroy the temple of Baal and leave the ruins to be a public bathroom – a latrine; an outhouse! 2 Kings 10:27 They demolished the sacred stone of Baal and tore down the temple of Baal, and people have used it for a latrine to this day.
Living like the world stinks! Following false gods is nasty. Dishonoring the One True and Living God is a public testimony that a person loves world and not him.
I pray that all of us will be a testimony to the goodness and beauty of God. I hope that God will consider our lives; devotions; and prayers as a sweet aroma, not a filthy stench.
One last thing about Jehu – although God was pleased with how he fulfilled his assignment, Jehu did not completely get rid of the idolatrous sin in his life.
2 Kings 10:28 & 31 Jehu destroyed Baal worship in Israel..yet Jehu was not careful to keep the law of the Lord, the God of Israel, with all his heart. He did not turn away from the sins of Jeroboam, which he had caused Israel to commit.
Go all the way with your life of faith. Be devoted completely to God. Do not love the world or anything in the world. Let there be no hint of immorality.
God will bless those who are fully devoted to him.
Barry
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Open My Eyes
DAY 121
1-19-10
2 KINGS 6-8
Good Morning!
One of the struggles we have with faith and trust in God is our inability to see spiritual things with human eyes. Unless God reveals those things, we will only see things of this world. That doesn’t make us powerless, because the power of faith is very strong.
Faith is the confidence that what we hope for will actually happen; it gives us assurance about things we cannot see. (Heb. 11:1-2)
Elisha was a man empowered by God with his Spirit to the degree that he could see those unseen things that are there for our help. When Elisha and his servant were surrounded by the Arameans, the servant was afraid but Elisha was calm because he could see the protection of God. Elisha asked God to open the man’s to see his help.
2 Kings 6:16-17 "Don't be afraid!" Elisha told him. "For there are more on our side than on theirs!" Then Elisha prayed, "O Lord, open his eyes and let him see!" The Lord opened the young man's eyes, and when he looked up, he saw that the hillside around Elisha was filled with horses and chariots of fire.
Through the eyes of faith, I know that God, his Spirit, and his angels are there for me. I believe the Word is true. I don’t have to see them with my human eyes to know they are there. I appreciate the words of John that read, “You belong to God, my dear children. You have already won a victory over those people, because the Spirit who lives in you is greater than the spirit who lives in the world.” (1 John 4:4) My help is always with me.
With confident faith I know that God will help me and protect me. Whether I live or die I am the Lord’s; and that fact is what gives me a calm soul.
My help is always around me. It’s inside me.
Barry
I look up to the mountains - does my help come from there? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth! The Lord keeps you from all harm and watches over your life. The Lord keeps watch over you as you come and go, both now and forever. (Psalm 121:1-2, 7-8)
1-19-10
2 KINGS 6-8
Good Morning!
One of the struggles we have with faith and trust in God is our inability to see spiritual things with human eyes. Unless God reveals those things, we will only see things of this world. That doesn’t make us powerless, because the power of faith is very strong.
Faith is the confidence that what we hope for will actually happen; it gives us assurance about things we cannot see. (Heb. 11:1-2)
Elisha was a man empowered by God with his Spirit to the degree that he could see those unseen things that are there for our help. When Elisha and his servant were surrounded by the Arameans, the servant was afraid but Elisha was calm because he could see the protection of God. Elisha asked God to open the man’s to see his help.
2 Kings 6:16-17 "Don't be afraid!" Elisha told him. "For there are more on our side than on theirs!" Then Elisha prayed, "O Lord, open his eyes and let him see!" The Lord opened the young man's eyes, and when he looked up, he saw that the hillside around Elisha was filled with horses and chariots of fire.
Through the eyes of faith, I know that God, his Spirit, and his angels are there for me. I believe the Word is true. I don’t have to see them with my human eyes to know they are there. I appreciate the words of John that read, “You belong to God, my dear children. You have already won a victory over those people, because the Spirit who lives in you is greater than the spirit who lives in the world.” (1 John 4:4) My help is always with me.
With confident faith I know that God will help me and protect me. Whether I live or die I am the Lord’s; and that fact is what gives me a calm soul.
My help is always around me. It’s inside me.
Barry
I look up to the mountains - does my help come from there? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth! The Lord keeps you from all harm and watches over your life. The Lord keeps watch over you as you come and go, both now and forever. (Psalm 121:1-2, 7-8)
Monday, January 18, 2010
Developing a Ministry of Teaching and Helping
DAY 120
1-18-10
2 KINGS 4-5
Good Morning!
Elijah’s ministry was a work of preaching and confrontation. He did it well. That was his calling. Elisha, so far, is portrayed as man of help and healing. How is this prophetic? Is this a prophet’s work? God is showing the connection between works that help and heal; and words that teach, convict, and save. It is no different than the mission of the Lord Jesus.
Seriously consider your life’s emphasis. For some, it is easier to do works of help and healing than to speak the words of life. For others, the words of life flow easily; but offering the physical help is a challenge.
Elisha was both compassionate and convicting. Taking into account that all people have certain gifts and talents; and not everyone is a preacher; it is also true that some have more of a giving talent. However, it is the unity and cooperation of people and talents that makes the kingdom work.
With that said, we are far more capable of being well rounded in both areas than we will often admit. You can learn to teach. You can grow into help ministries. Don’t sell yourself short. God’s children are capable of growing and expanding their talents to include things they once thought were impossible for them.
Let God move you to teach and help. Let God move us to work together.
Barry
1-18-10
2 KINGS 4-5
Good Morning!
Elijah’s ministry was a work of preaching and confrontation. He did it well. That was his calling. Elisha, so far, is portrayed as man of help and healing. How is this prophetic? Is this a prophet’s work? God is showing the connection between works that help and heal; and words that teach, convict, and save. It is no different than the mission of the Lord Jesus.
Seriously consider your life’s emphasis. For some, it is easier to do works of help and healing than to speak the words of life. For others, the words of life flow easily; but offering the physical help is a challenge.
Elisha was both compassionate and convicting. Taking into account that all people have certain gifts and talents; and not everyone is a preacher; it is also true that some have more of a giving talent. However, it is the unity and cooperation of people and talents that makes the kingdom work.
With that said, we are far more capable of being well rounded in both areas than we will often admit. You can learn to teach. You can grow into help ministries. Don’t sell yourself short. God’s children are capable of growing and expanding their talents to include things they once thought were impossible for them.
Let God move you to teach and help. Let God move us to work together.
Barry
Sunday, January 17, 2010
A Simple Thing for the Lord
DAY 119
1-17-10
2 KINGS 1-3
Good Morning!
After a rough and tough, God glorifying ministry, Elijah is taken away by God in dramatic powerful fashion. His successor, Elijah, begins his tenure as God’s prophet and right away faces the continuation of the struggle to serve God and preach his words to rebellious Israel.
In a rare show of unity, Israel and Judah, along with the Edomites, allied themselves to fight the Moabites. Elisha, out of respect for the King of Judah prophesied that God would supply them water and victory over Moab. That is exactly what he did.
There is an interesting line in 2 Kings 3:18 - “This is only a simple thing for the Lord, for he will make you victorious over the army of Moab!” Giving water to the thirsty; and victory for his people; was easy for God. It is a message that we should always have in our minds. What seems hard for us is easy for God. What is impossible for us is possible for God. Giving us the victory in our life is what God does! He does it for us.
Jeremiah 32:27 "I am the Lord, the God of all mankind. Is anything too hard for me?
Luke 18:27 “What is impossible with men is possible with God.”
Equipped with this information, you can live your life with confidence knowing that you will have the victory all things. Giving it to you is easy for God.
Barry
1-17-10
2 KINGS 1-3
Good Morning!
After a rough and tough, God glorifying ministry, Elijah is taken away by God in dramatic powerful fashion. His successor, Elijah, begins his tenure as God’s prophet and right away faces the continuation of the struggle to serve God and preach his words to rebellious Israel.
In a rare show of unity, Israel and Judah, along with the Edomites, allied themselves to fight the Moabites. Elisha, out of respect for the King of Judah prophesied that God would supply them water and victory over Moab. That is exactly what he did.
There is an interesting line in 2 Kings 3:18 - “This is only a simple thing for the Lord, for he will make you victorious over the army of Moab!” Giving water to the thirsty; and victory for his people; was easy for God. It is a message that we should always have in our minds. What seems hard for us is easy for God. What is impossible for us is possible for God. Giving us the victory in our life is what God does! He does it for us.
Jeremiah 32:27 "I am the Lord, the God of all mankind. Is anything too hard for me?
Luke 18:27 “What is impossible with men is possible with God.”
Equipped with this information, you can live your life with confidence knowing that you will have the victory all things. Giving it to you is easy for God.
Barry
Saturday, January 16, 2010
Life is Filled with Choices. Choose Well.
DAY 118
1-16-10
1 KINGS 21-22
Good Morning!
Ahab and Jezebel are the biblical examples of evil, horrid people. I think, however, because they were so evil we sometimes miss the example of their lives. I mean, they have nothing in common with most people in this world today, but they did live their lives for themselves and selfish pride. That can be said for any one of us in varying degrees. We can all fall into that kind of life if we’re not careful.
Ahab wanted what he shouldn’t have and received what he didn’t want. He wanted a vineyard and killed for it. He received God’s judgment in death...he most definitely did not want that.
The whole point of life and godliness through Jesus is to escape eternal destruction. In the end, a life without God, a life that doesn’t submit to Christ, a life that doesn’t give him the glory; will not give us what we need. We may very well receive what we want in this life, but we must be careful so that we don’t receive what we should never want – an eternity away from God. The choice is ours.
Give your life to God. Seek his kingdom – his rule – first, above all things. And God bless you now and forever.
Barry
God will give to each person according to what he has done. To those who by persistence in doing good seek glory, honor and immortality, he will give eternal life. (Rom 2:6-8)
1-16-10
1 KINGS 21-22
Good Morning!
Ahab and Jezebel are the biblical examples of evil, horrid people. I think, however, because they were so evil we sometimes miss the example of their lives. I mean, they have nothing in common with most people in this world today, but they did live their lives for themselves and selfish pride. That can be said for any one of us in varying degrees. We can all fall into that kind of life if we’re not careful.
Ahab wanted what he shouldn’t have and received what he didn’t want. He wanted a vineyard and killed for it. He received God’s judgment in death...he most definitely did not want that.
The whole point of life and godliness through Jesus is to escape eternal destruction. In the end, a life without God, a life that doesn’t submit to Christ, a life that doesn’t give him the glory; will not give us what we need. We may very well receive what we want in this life, but we must be careful so that we don’t receive what we should never want – an eternity away from God. The choice is ours.
Give your life to God. Seek his kingdom – his rule – first, above all things. And God bless you now and forever.
Barry
God will give to each person according to what he has done. To those who by persistence in doing good seek glory, honor and immortality, he will give eternal life. (Rom 2:6-8)
Friday, January 15, 2010
The Gentle Whisper of God’s Voice
DAY 117
1-15-10
1 KINGS 19-20
Good Morning!
Elijah, fresh from his great victory over Ahab and the prophets of Baal, runs for his life. He is weak and scared. God sends angelic help for him. Yet, he is so discouraged that God himself makes a glorious appearance to Elijah. God comes down in the wind, an earthquake, and fire. The power of the Lord was impressive, but what gets through to the struggling prophet, who thought he was the only faithful one left, was the gentle voice of God.
The voice of the Lord is so powerful that it creates the universe. He voice thunders and breaks the mighty cedars of Lebanon. His voice flashes like lightning; by his voice kingdoms fall and the earth melts. YET…the gentleness of a loving God whispers words that sooth and reassure us that we are his; and we are not alone.
When the Old Testament refers to the voice of God it primarily speaks of the powerful, loud, thunderous voice of the Almighty. However, in those same passages we are introduced to a new voice that is quiet and gentle…Jesus Christ our Lord.
God said, “I will put my Spirit on him and he will bring justice to the nations. He will not shout or cry out, or raise his voice in the streets. A bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out. In faithfulness he will bring forth justice; he will not falter or be discouraged till he establishes justice on earth. In his law the islands will put their hope." (Isaiah 42:1-4)
David quotes God as saying, “Be still and know that I am God.” (Psalm 46:10) Be still and quiet and listen to the voice of our lord.
Barry
1-15-10
1 KINGS 19-20
Good Morning!
Elijah, fresh from his great victory over Ahab and the prophets of Baal, runs for his life. He is weak and scared. God sends angelic help for him. Yet, he is so discouraged that God himself makes a glorious appearance to Elijah. God comes down in the wind, an earthquake, and fire. The power of the Lord was impressive, but what gets through to the struggling prophet, who thought he was the only faithful one left, was the gentle voice of God.
The voice of the Lord is so powerful that it creates the universe. He voice thunders and breaks the mighty cedars of Lebanon. His voice flashes like lightning; by his voice kingdoms fall and the earth melts. YET…the gentleness of a loving God whispers words that sooth and reassure us that we are his; and we are not alone.
When the Old Testament refers to the voice of God it primarily speaks of the powerful, loud, thunderous voice of the Almighty. However, in those same passages we are introduced to a new voice that is quiet and gentle…Jesus Christ our Lord.
God said, “I will put my Spirit on him and he will bring justice to the nations. He will not shout or cry out, or raise his voice in the streets. A bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out. In faithfulness he will bring forth justice; he will not falter or be discouraged till he establishes justice on earth. In his law the islands will put their hope." (Isaiah 42:1-4)
David quotes God as saying, “Be still and know that I am God.” (Psalm 46:10) Be still and quiet and listen to the voice of our lord.
Barry
Thursday, January 14, 2010
God Fights to Get His Sinful Children Back
DAY 116
1-14-10
1 KINGS 16-18
Good Morning!
This is a very interesting reading this morning. We are introduced to the evil and murderous intrigue of the Kings of Israel. The One True God; the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, has been totally forgotten. Then arises King Ahab; and he is the worst of them all. 1 Kings 16:33 reads, “He did more to provoke the anger of the Lord, the God of Israel, than any of the other kings of Israel before him.”
Ahab is so evil and arrogant that he will go head to head with God. God raises a prophet, Elijah, and Ahab will not rest until the one who points out his evil ways; and brings God’s punishing judgments; is dead. Elijah is constantly on the run. He is harassed and hungry. He is being tested by God and goes through “prophet boot camp” to build up his own trust in Jehovah. He’s going to need it. Elijah is going to go head to head against an evil king and his false God.
When Elijah does battle against Baal; its 450 prophets; and King Ahab; we see that there is a point to God’s judgments. He is trying to win back his wayward, mislead, and sinful children. God shows his power over the false gods and their followers, so that the people will be shocked back into faith and obedience. God fights for us!
Elijah prayed in 1 Kings 18:36-37, "O Lord, God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, prove today that you are God in Israel and that I am your servant. Prove that I have done all this at your command. O Lord, answer me! Answer me so these people will know that you, O Lord, are God and that you have brought them back to yourself."
When the people see the spectacle, they remember God and shout out, “The LORD he is God! Yes! The LORD he is God.”
God has not and does not give up on us. He is willing fight for the ones he loves. He has shown that time and time again. If God is the unchanging God, then he does that for us and for those we love who have “gone after the Baals.” Don’t give up praying to God to bring back his people. God is not going to give up on them. We shouldn't either.
Barry
1-14-10
1 KINGS 16-18
Good Morning!
This is a very interesting reading this morning. We are introduced to the evil and murderous intrigue of the Kings of Israel. The One True God; the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, has been totally forgotten. Then arises King Ahab; and he is the worst of them all. 1 Kings 16:33 reads, “He did more to provoke the anger of the Lord, the God of Israel, than any of the other kings of Israel before him.”
Ahab is so evil and arrogant that he will go head to head with God. God raises a prophet, Elijah, and Ahab will not rest until the one who points out his evil ways; and brings God’s punishing judgments; is dead. Elijah is constantly on the run. He is harassed and hungry. He is being tested by God and goes through “prophet boot camp” to build up his own trust in Jehovah. He’s going to need it. Elijah is going to go head to head against an evil king and his false God.
When Elijah does battle against Baal; its 450 prophets; and King Ahab; we see that there is a point to God’s judgments. He is trying to win back his wayward, mislead, and sinful children. God shows his power over the false gods and their followers, so that the people will be shocked back into faith and obedience. God fights for us!
Elijah prayed in 1 Kings 18:36-37, "O Lord, God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, prove today that you are God in Israel and that I am your servant. Prove that I have done all this at your command. O Lord, answer me! Answer me so these people will know that you, O Lord, are God and that you have brought them back to yourself."
When the people see the spectacle, they remember God and shout out, “The LORD he is God! Yes! The LORD he is God.”
God has not and does not give up on us. He is willing fight for the ones he loves. He has shown that time and time again. If God is the unchanging God, then he does that for us and for those we love who have “gone after the Baals.” Don’t give up praying to God to bring back his people. God is not going to give up on them. We shouldn't either.
Barry
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Do You Please the Lord?
DAY 115
1-13-10
1 KINGS 14-15
Good Morning!
Except for King Asa of Judah, the subsequent kings in Judah and Israel were evil. Only Asa walked in the ways of David. There are more kings to come, but we shouldn’t expect much better. And why should we? They were pagans. They were idolatrous. Their only intent was to please themselves. God said to Jeroboam in 1 Kings 14:9 “You have made other gods for yourself and have made me furious with your gold calves…you have turned your back on me.” Then the text tells us that “Jeroboam had provoked the anger of the Lord, the God of Israel, by the sins he had committed and the sins he had led Israel to commit.” (1 Kings 15:30)
I guess this is a good time for all of us to consider if our lives are pleasing to the Lord. This is not an impossible task. We can and should know if our lives are pleasing to him. Why? Because God is a good father that tells his children what pleases him. There was no way that the kings could claim ignorance of their sins. Their lives made God furious.
Our goal as the people of God should be to make our Lord happy; and to please him. Lest we get discouraged, knowing that we are sinners, our good father is full of grace when we fall short. Let his word encourage us about pleasing him.
Find out what pleases the Lord. (Eph 5:10)
Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord. (Col 3:20)
Live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior. (1 Tim 2:2-3)
Obey his commands and do what pleases him. And this is his command: to believe in the name of his Son, Jesus Christ, and to love one another. (1 John 3:22-23)
Barry
1-13-10
1 KINGS 14-15
Good Morning!
Except for King Asa of Judah, the subsequent kings in Judah and Israel were evil. Only Asa walked in the ways of David. There are more kings to come, but we shouldn’t expect much better. And why should we? They were pagans. They were idolatrous. Their only intent was to please themselves. God said to Jeroboam in 1 Kings 14:9 “You have made other gods for yourself and have made me furious with your gold calves…you have turned your back on me.” Then the text tells us that “Jeroboam had provoked the anger of the Lord, the God of Israel, by the sins he had committed and the sins he had led Israel to commit.” (1 Kings 15:30)
I guess this is a good time for all of us to consider if our lives are pleasing to the Lord. This is not an impossible task. We can and should know if our lives are pleasing to him. Why? Because God is a good father that tells his children what pleases him. There was no way that the kings could claim ignorance of their sins. Their lives made God furious.
Our goal as the people of God should be to make our Lord happy; and to please him. Lest we get discouraged, knowing that we are sinners, our good father is full of grace when we fall short. Let his word encourage us about pleasing him.
Find out what pleases the Lord. (Eph 5:10)
Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord. (Col 3:20)
Live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior. (1 Tim 2:2-3)
Obey his commands and do what pleases him. And this is his command: to believe in the name of his Son, Jesus Christ, and to love one another. (1 John 3:22-23)
Barry
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Listening to Good Advice
DAY 114
1-12-10
1 KINGS 12-13
Good Morning!
Solomon dies and the downhill slide of God’s people and nation gains momentum. Solomon’s son Rehoboam, and Jeroboam, a former rebel who fled from Solomon, each lead a portion of the Israelite tribes. Neither one of these men are like David, who walked in God’s ways. Neither one of these men had Solomon’s wisdom either.
Generally, kings and leaders do not lead and make decisions without asking advisers what they think about given matters. That makes sense. Rehoboam is a perfect example of receiving sound advice (reduce taxes and gain favor of the people) and not following it. Jeroboam is the perfect example of receiving terrible advice (establish pagan worship in the northern tribes) and agreeing to it.
There is a lot of advice out there for everything under the sun. Some of it comes from good sources. Much of it comes from shady or ungodly sources. When it comes to your life; your eternity; your family; and your marriage; remember that only God’s wisdom in his word; and advice from righteous people of God can be trusted. Be careful what you read and listen to. Be careful about who you ask. It is always best to go to the source of all wisdom – God himself.
Barry
A voice came from the cloud, saying, "This is my Son, whom I have chosen; listen to him."
(Luke 9:35)
His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him. (2 Peter 1:3)
1-12-10
1 KINGS 12-13
Good Morning!
Solomon dies and the downhill slide of God’s people and nation gains momentum. Solomon’s son Rehoboam, and Jeroboam, a former rebel who fled from Solomon, each lead a portion of the Israelite tribes. Neither one of these men are like David, who walked in God’s ways. Neither one of these men had Solomon’s wisdom either.
Generally, kings and leaders do not lead and make decisions without asking advisers what they think about given matters. That makes sense. Rehoboam is a perfect example of receiving sound advice (reduce taxes and gain favor of the people) and not following it. Jeroboam is the perfect example of receiving terrible advice (establish pagan worship in the northern tribes) and agreeing to it.
There is a lot of advice out there for everything under the sun. Some of it comes from good sources. Much of it comes from shady or ungodly sources. When it comes to your life; your eternity; your family; and your marriage; remember that only God’s wisdom in his word; and advice from righteous people of God can be trusted. Be careful what you read and listen to. Be careful about who you ask. It is always best to go to the source of all wisdom – God himself.
Barry
A voice came from the cloud, saying, "This is my Son, whom I have chosen; listen to him."
(Luke 9:35)
His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him. (2 Peter 1:3)
Monday, January 11, 2010
Trading Away or Securing Our Future
DAY 113
1-11-10
1 KINGS 9-11
Good Morning!
Solomon was empowered and blessed by God to such a degree that he was the greatest man in the world. He was rich, powerful, productive and wise. It was clear that God was involved in all his greatness. Our text says that God answered Solomon’s prayer when he dedicated the new temple. God answered, in 1 Kings 9:4-5, "As for you, if you will follow me with integrity and godliness, as David your father did, obeying all my commands, decrees, and regulations, then I will establish the throne of your dynasty over Israel forever.”
That’s a very clear message. Yet, the wisest man in the world didn’t get it. Or, he got it, but didn’t care to follow it. In any case, Solomon let his heart get taken away by pagan woman. He worshipped and supported foreign false gods. Now what do you think God is going to do about this? 1 Kings 11:11-12 tells us.
(v.11) The Lord said to him, "Since you have not kept my covenant and have disobeyed my decrees, I will surely tear the kingdom away from you and give it to one of your servants.”
(v.12) “But for the sake of your father, David, I will not do this while you are still alive. I will take the kingdom away from your son.”
Just like that! Solomon loses the future. This snowball will keep rolling until the entire nation is in captivity. Is there any question about what happens to our future when God’s people follow the ways of the world? The future of our children and the church will be affected in positive or a negative ways by the choices we make today. What will we choose? Will we trade it away? Or will we build it up and secure it firmly on God and his word?
Barry
1 John 2:15-17 Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For everything in the world — the cravings of sinful man, the lust of his eyes and the boasting of what he has and does — comes not from the Father but from the world. The world and its desires pass away, but the man who does the will of God lives forever.
1-11-10
1 KINGS 9-11
Good Morning!
Solomon was empowered and blessed by God to such a degree that he was the greatest man in the world. He was rich, powerful, productive and wise. It was clear that God was involved in all his greatness. Our text says that God answered Solomon’s prayer when he dedicated the new temple. God answered, in 1 Kings 9:4-5, "As for you, if you will follow me with integrity and godliness, as David your father did, obeying all my commands, decrees, and regulations, then I will establish the throne of your dynasty over Israel forever.”
That’s a very clear message. Yet, the wisest man in the world didn’t get it. Or, he got it, but didn’t care to follow it. In any case, Solomon let his heart get taken away by pagan woman. He worshipped and supported foreign false gods. Now what do you think God is going to do about this? 1 Kings 11:11-12 tells us.
(v.11) The Lord said to him, "Since you have not kept my covenant and have disobeyed my decrees, I will surely tear the kingdom away from you and give it to one of your servants.”
(v.12) “But for the sake of your father, David, I will not do this while you are still alive. I will take the kingdom away from your son.”
Just like that! Solomon loses the future. This snowball will keep rolling until the entire nation is in captivity. Is there any question about what happens to our future when God’s people follow the ways of the world? The future of our children and the church will be affected in positive or a negative ways by the choices we make today. What will we choose? Will we trade it away? Or will we build it up and secure it firmly on God and his word?
Barry
1 John 2:15-17 Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For everything in the world — the cravings of sinful man, the lust of his eyes and the boasting of what he has and does — comes not from the Father but from the world. The world and its desires pass away, but the man who does the will of God lives forever.
Sunday, January 10, 2010
When God Moves In
DAY 112
1-10-10
1 KINGS 8
Good Morning!
Solomon finishes the temple, and God's presence moves in – in glorious smoke. The presence of the Almighty is with them. Solomon knows, however, that in reality the temple can’t contain God; no more than the universe can contain him. Yet, God is there. My body and my life can’t contain the Spirit of God. Yet, God is in me. I can’t explain it; but I’m eternally grateful anyway.
What happens when God moves in? Everything changes. God is no longer “over there.” He is always “right here.” In this way the scripture comes true for his people, “No one will be able to stand up against you all the days of your life...As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you.” (Josh 1:5)
Thank God for moving into our lives.
Barry
1-10-10
1 KINGS 8
Good Morning!
Solomon finishes the temple, and God's presence moves in – in glorious smoke. The presence of the Almighty is with them. Solomon knows, however, that in reality the temple can’t contain God; no more than the universe can contain him. Yet, God is there. My body and my life can’t contain the Spirit of God. Yet, God is in me. I can’t explain it; but I’m eternally grateful anyway.
What happens when God moves in? Everything changes. God is no longer “over there.” He is always “right here.” In this way the scripture comes true for his people, “No one will be able to stand up against you all the days of your life...As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you.” (Josh 1:5)
Thank God for moving into our lives.
Barry
Saturday, January 9, 2010
You Are Beautiful to God
DAY 111
1-9-10
1 KINGS 5-7
Good Morning!
Solomon’s temple is described so beautifully and must have been overwhelming to see. The temple was not only beautiful, it made Israel feel pride in being the people of God and by having God in their presence. The temple; and the peace from the many wars David fought; showed the Israelites that they were finally a nation and settled in the land of promise.
Christians are the temple of God for the same reason. God is always close. I feel a sense of pride that the God of the universe chooses to live in me. I live in the kingdom of heaven. And the beauty of Solomon’s temple can’t compare with the beauty of a Christian temple, who has been cleansed, made holy, and purified so God can move in with his Spirit.
We are beautiful to God by our faith in his son Jesus Christ.
Barry
You are no longer foreigners and aliens, but fellow citizens with God's people and members of God's household, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone. In him the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord. And in him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit. (Eph 2:19-22)
1-9-10
1 KINGS 5-7
Good Morning!
Solomon’s temple is described so beautifully and must have been overwhelming to see. The temple was not only beautiful, it made Israel feel pride in being the people of God and by having God in their presence. The temple; and the peace from the many wars David fought; showed the Israelites that they were finally a nation and settled in the land of promise.
Christians are the temple of God for the same reason. God is always close. I feel a sense of pride that the God of the universe chooses to live in me. I live in the kingdom of heaven. And the beauty of Solomon’s temple can’t compare with the beauty of a Christian temple, who has been cleansed, made holy, and purified so God can move in with his Spirit.
We are beautiful to God by our faith in his son Jesus Christ.
Barry
You are no longer foreigners and aliens, but fellow citizens with God's people and members of God's household, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone. In him the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord. And in him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit. (Eph 2:19-22)
Friday, January 8, 2010
A Gift God Really Wants to Give You
DAY 110
1-8-10
1 KINGS 3-4
Good Morning!
Every one of us asks God for what we want and need. The Bible continually tells us that he hears us and knows our needs. God is a good father - and what good father does not want his children to ask him for help? Jesus gave us a view of God that is supposed draw us to him so he can show us how much he loves us and wants us to succeed. Jesus said,
“Your Father knows what you need before you ask him. (Matt 6:8)
"Ask and it will be given to you. (Matt 7:7)
“If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!” (Matt 7:11)
Now, we ask for help, healing, and forgiveness. We pray prayers of thanks and praise. We lift up others to God all the time. But when was the last time any of us prayed for wisdom? Prayed for God to make our thinking clear? Prayed that we use sound judgment? Asked God to help us make good decisions? Prayed for God to bless our reading of the word so that we will remember it and use it?
God was pleased to give Solomon what he asked for. God gave him what he needed – wisdom. You see if we have the wisdom of God many of the things we need will already be available. Many of the sins we pray about will be nonexistent. God’s wisdom and our ability to use it will bless us in every part of our lives.
God said, "What do you want? Ask, and I will give it to you!"
"I am like a little child who doesn't know his way around…give me an understanding heart…to know the difference between right and wrong."
Barry
1-8-10
1 KINGS 3-4
Good Morning!
Every one of us asks God for what we want and need. The Bible continually tells us that he hears us and knows our needs. God is a good father - and what good father does not want his children to ask him for help? Jesus gave us a view of God that is supposed draw us to him so he can show us how much he loves us and wants us to succeed. Jesus said,
“Your Father knows what you need before you ask him. (Matt 6:8)
"Ask and it will be given to you. (Matt 7:7)
“If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!” (Matt 7:11)
Now, we ask for help, healing, and forgiveness. We pray prayers of thanks and praise. We lift up others to God all the time. But when was the last time any of us prayed for wisdom? Prayed for God to make our thinking clear? Prayed that we use sound judgment? Asked God to help us make good decisions? Prayed for God to bless our reading of the word so that we will remember it and use it?
God was pleased to give Solomon what he asked for. God gave him what he needed – wisdom. You see if we have the wisdom of God many of the things we need will already be available. Many of the sins we pray about will be nonexistent. God’s wisdom and our ability to use it will bless us in every part of our lives.
God said, "What do you want? Ask, and I will give it to you!"
"I am like a little child who doesn't know his way around…give me an understanding heart…to know the difference between right and wrong."
Barry
Thursday, January 7, 2010
The Keys to Successful Leadership
DAY 109
1-7-10
1 KINGS 1-2
Good Morning!
Shortly before King David dies, his son Adonijah appoints himself king even while David lives. When David finds out, he anoints Solomon as his successor and sits him on the throne beside him. Along with other men who have dealt treacherously with David, Adonijah is executed. Solomon’s throne is firmly established.
Solomon now has the pressure of leadership of God’s people. There is no greater pressure than leadership where God’s will, lives, and souls are at stake. To be able to succeed in his assignment, the first thing that Solomon needs from David is advice from an experienced man.
Are you a leader? Are you a leader of God’s people? Are you a parent? You need the same advice David gave his son in 1 Kings 2:2-4.
1. “Take courage.” Leadership, fatherhood, and motherhood takes courage to fulfill the demand.
2. “Be a man.” (or a woman as we apply the lesson). As people who are created in the image of God, we must stand up and take the responsibility we have been given.
3. “Observe the requirements of the Lord your God, and follow all his ways. Keep the decrees, commands, regulations, and laws written in the Law of Moses.” God’s word is a leader’s help, encouragement, authority, and way to righteous integrity.
The results? “You will be successful in all you do and wherever you go.” Success is not measured by perfection. Just look at David’s success as a weak and sinful man. Success is measured by one’s faithful relationship as a person of God. God gives success to his faithful leaders. He did for David and Solomon. He will for us too!
Barry
1-7-10
1 KINGS 1-2
Good Morning!
Shortly before King David dies, his son Adonijah appoints himself king even while David lives. When David finds out, he anoints Solomon as his successor and sits him on the throne beside him. Along with other men who have dealt treacherously with David, Adonijah is executed. Solomon’s throne is firmly established.
Solomon now has the pressure of leadership of God’s people. There is no greater pressure than leadership where God’s will, lives, and souls are at stake. To be able to succeed in his assignment, the first thing that Solomon needs from David is advice from an experienced man.
Are you a leader? Are you a leader of God’s people? Are you a parent? You need the same advice David gave his son in 1 Kings 2:2-4.
1. “Take courage.” Leadership, fatherhood, and motherhood takes courage to fulfill the demand.
2. “Be a man.” (or a woman as we apply the lesson). As people who are created in the image of God, we must stand up and take the responsibility we have been given.
3. “Observe the requirements of the Lord your God, and follow all his ways. Keep the decrees, commands, regulations, and laws written in the Law of Moses.” God’s word is a leader’s help, encouragement, authority, and way to righteous integrity.
The results? “You will be successful in all you do and wherever you go.” Success is not measured by perfection. Just look at David’s success as a weak and sinful man. Success is measured by one’s faithful relationship as a person of God. God gives success to his faithful leaders. He did for David and Solomon. He will for us too!
Barry
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
Let Us Fall Into the Hands of the Lord
DAY 108
1-6-10
2 SAMUEL 23-24
Good Morning!
At the end of David’s life, David sins by taking a census of his fighting men. The parallel passage in 1 Chron.21:1 says that Satan prompted the sinful action of David. 2 Samuel 24:1 says God did. Since God does not order his people to sin, I think it’s clear that God was using the sinful predisposition of David; and his sinful decision that he already made; to teach hard lessons to sinful Israel. Even Joab knew he should not do this. Anyway, 70,000 died.
As I struggle to find a bright side, I am drawn to David’s statement in 2 Sam. 24:14, “Let us fall into the hands of the Lord, for his mercy is great; but do not let me fall into the hands of men.”
David was given a choice of punishment. His reasoning shows that even though he sinned, his spirit that strives after God, was putting all his faith in the God of justice and punishment; and the God of mercy and forgiveness. That is a perfect example of how God’s grace works. God does not take away the physical consequences. He offers grace, forgiveness, and help to get through the consequences of our sins and sinful decisions.
Barry
1-6-10
2 SAMUEL 23-24
Good Morning!
At the end of David’s life, David sins by taking a census of his fighting men. The parallel passage in 1 Chron.21:1 says that Satan prompted the sinful action of David. 2 Samuel 24:1 says God did. Since God does not order his people to sin, I think it’s clear that God was using the sinful predisposition of David; and his sinful decision that he already made; to teach hard lessons to sinful Israel. Even Joab knew he should not do this. Anyway, 70,000 died.
As I struggle to find a bright side, I am drawn to David’s statement in 2 Sam. 24:14, “Let us fall into the hands of the Lord, for his mercy is great; but do not let me fall into the hands of men.”
David was given a choice of punishment. His reasoning shows that even though he sinned, his spirit that strives after God, was putting all his faith in the God of justice and punishment; and the God of mercy and forgiveness. That is a perfect example of how God’s grace works. God does not take away the physical consequences. He offers grace, forgiveness, and help to get through the consequences of our sins and sinful decisions.
Barry
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
Someone to Protect Me
DAY 107
1-5-10
2 SAMUEL 21-22
Good Morning!
We live in a dangerous world – physically and spiritually. The threats of harm, illness, and tragedy are everywhere. Although we can protect ourselves in many ways, it is not always effective. Tragedy happens. That’s why we lock our doors, wear seatbelts, and helmets. That’s why we support law enforcement.
If this is true physically, why are so many not concerned about the spiritual harm that is everywhere? We are threatened by temptation; false teachers and teachings; harmful substances; and many other spiritual dangers. Yet, so often, we do not take precautions and protect ourselves and those we love. Satan is determined to harm us and take us to hell with him. The threat is real. It is serious. We need that spiritual armor more than ever. (Eph. 6:10-18) Peter said it well…
Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith. (1 Peter 5:8-9)
David was threatened from within and without; from family and foreigner; physically and spiritually. He was constantly harassed and running for his life. Yet, he acknowledged it and relied on God’s help. God always took care of him, even when he was suffering.
Look to God. He is the source of your help.
Barry
2 Sam 22:2-4 "The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my savior; my God is my rock, in whom I find protection. He is my shield, the power that saves me, and my place of safety. He is my refuge, my savior, the one who saves me from violence. I called on the Lord, who is worthy of praise, and he saved me from my enemies.
1-5-10
2 SAMUEL 21-22
Good Morning!
We live in a dangerous world – physically and spiritually. The threats of harm, illness, and tragedy are everywhere. Although we can protect ourselves in many ways, it is not always effective. Tragedy happens. That’s why we lock our doors, wear seatbelts, and helmets. That’s why we support law enforcement.
If this is true physically, why are so many not concerned about the spiritual harm that is everywhere? We are threatened by temptation; false teachers and teachings; harmful substances; and many other spiritual dangers. Yet, so often, we do not take precautions and protect ourselves and those we love. Satan is determined to harm us and take us to hell with him. The threat is real. It is serious. We need that spiritual armor more than ever. (Eph. 6:10-18) Peter said it well…
Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith. (1 Peter 5:8-9)
David was threatened from within and without; from family and foreigner; physically and spiritually. He was constantly harassed and running for his life. Yet, he acknowledged it and relied on God’s help. God always took care of him, even when he was suffering.
Look to God. He is the source of your help.
Barry
2 Sam 22:2-4 "The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my savior; my God is my rock, in whom I find protection. He is my shield, the power that saves me, and my place of safety. He is my refuge, my savior, the one who saves me from violence. I called on the Lord, who is worthy of praise, and he saved me from my enemies.
Monday, January 4, 2010
The Joy of a Unified Family
DAY 106
1-4-10
2 SAMUEL 19-20
Good Morning!
David is still trying to consolidate his power and unify the nation. Israel and Judah, however, are still at odds with each other. The final split of the nation between the southern and northern tribes many years later – after the death of Solomon – have their beginnings right now in David’s time. Notice how shabbily they treat each other...
2 Sam 19:42 All the men of Judah answered the men of Israel, "We did this because the king is closely related to us. Why are you angry about it?
2 Sam 19:43 Then the men of Israel answered the men of Judah, "We have ten shares in the king; and besides, we have a greater claim on David than you have. So why do you treat us with contempt?...But the men of Judah responded even more harshly than the men of Israel.
Unity in a family and unity of a church family lays in love; acceptance; humility; and submission to each others needs, feelings, and greater good. Sacrificial submission is the character trait of one who not only seeks peace, but pursues it. That’s what David wrote about all the disunity in his kingdom among men who are brothers. In Psalm 34, David wrote… “Glorify the Lord with me; let us exalt his name together…Turn from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it.” He wrote in Psalm 133, “How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in unity!”
Think about it. Isn’t unity of your family pleasant and worth pursuing? The joy of being in a family and being a child of God is realized in its fullness when the family is lovingly unified. That’s worth all our hard work, prayers, and sacrificial submission.
Barry
1-4-10
2 SAMUEL 19-20
Good Morning!
David is still trying to consolidate his power and unify the nation. Israel and Judah, however, are still at odds with each other. The final split of the nation between the southern and northern tribes many years later – after the death of Solomon – have their beginnings right now in David’s time. Notice how shabbily they treat each other...
2 Sam 19:42 All the men of Judah answered the men of Israel, "We did this because the king is closely related to us. Why are you angry about it?
2 Sam 19:43 Then the men of Israel answered the men of Judah, "We have ten shares in the king; and besides, we have a greater claim on David than you have. So why do you treat us with contempt?...But the men of Judah responded even more harshly than the men of Israel.
Unity in a family and unity of a church family lays in love; acceptance; humility; and submission to each others needs, feelings, and greater good. Sacrificial submission is the character trait of one who not only seeks peace, but pursues it. That’s what David wrote about all the disunity in his kingdom among men who are brothers. In Psalm 34, David wrote… “Glorify the Lord with me; let us exalt his name together…Turn from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it.” He wrote in Psalm 133, “How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in unity!”
Think about it. Isn’t unity of your family pleasant and worth pursuing? The joy of being in a family and being a child of God is realized in its fullness when the family is lovingly unified. That’s worth all our hard work, prayers, and sacrificial submission.
Barry
Sunday, January 3, 2010
There is No Joy in Victory Over Someone You Love
DAY 105
1-3-10
2 SAMUEL 17-18
Good Morning!
Absalom’s death was a tragedy that did not need to happen. His rebellion was out of lust for power and position. But it was also payback for the punishment David gave him for killing his brother. Thoughts of “I’ll get even with that old man” could very easily have been going through his head.
A completely different way of thinking is seen in David. Even in David’s fear for his life David did not want his son harmed. In his grief at his son’s death, David could only cry out “Absalom, O Absalom” over and over.
There is no joy in victory over someone you love. The desire to get even with, or win a “battle” over a loved one will only leave you with a hollow victory. David’s army beat his son’s army. He lost his son – but he saved his kingdom. I wonder if David thought that was a fair trade.
Make peace. Forgive. Seek forgiveness. Create and sustain relationships where this kind jealousy and hatred do not happen. Live by the words of Jesus that teach, “Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God.”
Barry
1-3-10
2 SAMUEL 17-18
Good Morning!
Absalom’s death was a tragedy that did not need to happen. His rebellion was out of lust for power and position. But it was also payback for the punishment David gave him for killing his brother. Thoughts of “I’ll get even with that old man” could very easily have been going through his head.
A completely different way of thinking is seen in David. Even in David’s fear for his life David did not want his son harmed. In his grief at his son’s death, David could only cry out “Absalom, O Absalom” over and over.
There is no joy in victory over someone you love. The desire to get even with, or win a “battle” over a loved one will only leave you with a hollow victory. David’s army beat his son’s army. He lost his son – but he saved his kingdom. I wonder if David thought that was a fair trade.
Make peace. Forgive. Seek forgiveness. Create and sustain relationships where this kind jealousy and hatred do not happen. Live by the words of Jesus that teach, “Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God.”
Barry
Saturday, January 2, 2010
Staying With Our King No Matter What
DAY 104
1-2-10
2 SAMUEL 15-16
Good Morning!
This is a very sad time in David’s life. To be at odds with your child is one thing. To have to fear them and be totally estranged from them is quite another. David’s heart must have been breaking. We see him wondering if Absalom’s rebellion is really God’s will.
There is a line in this narrative that sticks out in my mind. It teaches us a very good lesson about being devoted to the Lord no matter what. A man supported David even though he was a foreigner. David told him he did not have to stay, yet the man said to David in 2 Sam.15:21 "Wherever my lord the king may be, whether it means life or death, there will your servant be."
This statement reminds me of Jesus’ disciples telling him that even if they had to die with Jesus, they would never leave him. Of course, they all deserted him. (Mark 14:31) As disciples of the Lord, we must be devoted to him at all times. No matter how good or bad those times can be. We are his servants whether it means life or death. Of course, to us – it always means life!
Let your devotion to our King Jesus be the goal of this new year and every year the Lord gives us to live. Wherever our Lord the King may be, that’s where we need to be also.
Barry
For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. (Rom. 8:38-39)
1-2-10
2 SAMUEL 15-16
Good Morning!
This is a very sad time in David’s life. To be at odds with your child is one thing. To have to fear them and be totally estranged from them is quite another. David’s heart must have been breaking. We see him wondering if Absalom’s rebellion is really God’s will.
There is a line in this narrative that sticks out in my mind. It teaches us a very good lesson about being devoted to the Lord no matter what. A man supported David even though he was a foreigner. David told him he did not have to stay, yet the man said to David in 2 Sam.15:21 "Wherever my lord the king may be, whether it means life or death, there will your servant be."
This statement reminds me of Jesus’ disciples telling him that even if they had to die with Jesus, they would never leave him. Of course, they all deserted him. (Mark 14:31) As disciples of the Lord, we must be devoted to him at all times. No matter how good or bad those times can be. We are his servants whether it means life or death. Of course, to us – it always means life!
Let your devotion to our King Jesus be the goal of this new year and every year the Lord gives us to live. Wherever our Lord the King may be, that’s where we need to be also.
Barry
For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. (Rom. 8:38-39)
Friday, January 1, 2010
God Devises Ways to Bring Us Back to Him
DAY 103
1-1-10
2 SAMUEL 13-14
Happy New Year!
I love the Bible! I love the way God is portrayed, even in the middle of human lies, deceit, murder, and intrigue. God works with mankind’s sinful tendencies to bring them to a holy way of thinking and living. In 2 Sam. 14:14, it reads, “God does not take away life; instead, he devises ways so that a banished person may not remain estranged from him.”
God is loving, kind, forgiving, and compassionate; even when we are not. Of course, God is just and he disciplines and even punishes; but God is always trying to turn us around; and turn us back to him.
David’s messed up family is a picture of all of us. God knows our sins, weaknesses, and imperfections. He actively looks for ways to turn us back to him. Its worth repeating - “God does not take away life; instead, he devises ways so that a banished person may not remain estranged from him.”
May God’s love rest on all of us in 2010.
Barry
1-1-10
2 SAMUEL 13-14
Happy New Year!
I love the Bible! I love the way God is portrayed, even in the middle of human lies, deceit, murder, and intrigue. God works with mankind’s sinful tendencies to bring them to a holy way of thinking and living. In 2 Sam. 14:14, it reads, “God does not take away life; instead, he devises ways so that a banished person may not remain estranged from him.”
God is loving, kind, forgiving, and compassionate; even when we are not. Of course, God is just and he disciplines and even punishes; but God is always trying to turn us around; and turn us back to him.
David’s messed up family is a picture of all of us. God knows our sins, weaknesses, and imperfections. He actively looks for ways to turn us back to him. Its worth repeating - “God does not take away life; instead, he devises ways so that a banished person may not remain estranged from him.”
May God’s love rest on all of us in 2010.
Barry
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