Good Morning!
I'm on vacation for a couple of weeks. Keep on reading. I'll be reading everyday as well in some of the most beautiful places God has created.
I rise before dawn and cry for help; I have put my hope in your word. My eyes stay open through the watches of the night, that I may meditate on your promises. (Psalm 119:147-148)
Barry
Sunday, June 27, 2010
Thursday, June 24, 2010
When Discipleship is Discouraging
DAY 263
6-24-10
MATTHEW 10-11
Good Morning!
Matthew clearly points out events and teachings of Jesus that show just how hard it is to be a disciple. Disciples were sent to preach to people he knew would mostly reject him and his messengers. Families were divided over Jesus and he told them they’ll have to make hard relational choices. People consistently refused to believe and repent.
Being a disciple of Jesus with all this difficulty and rejection is hard to take. It can be very discouraging. But Jesus’ burden – his teachings and their requirements for discipleship - will give us the spiritual rest and peace we are missing from the world and the ways of the world.
Jesus said, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” (Matt. 11:28-30)
Never give up.
Barry
6-24-10
MATTHEW 10-11
Good Morning!
Matthew clearly points out events and teachings of Jesus that show just how hard it is to be a disciple. Disciples were sent to preach to people he knew would mostly reject him and his messengers. Families were divided over Jesus and he told them they’ll have to make hard relational choices. People consistently refused to believe and repent.
Being a disciple of Jesus with all this difficulty and rejection is hard to take. It can be very discouraging. But Jesus’ burden – his teachings and their requirements for discipleship - will give us the spiritual rest and peace we are missing from the world and the ways of the world.
Jesus said, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” (Matt. 11:28-30)
Never give up.
Barry
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
What Kind of Messiah was Jesus?
DAY 263
6-23-10
MATTHEW 7-9
What was the Messiah supposed to do? Save the world from sin - of course – but also to show the love, compassion, and healing of God. He was to be “Immanuel – God with us.” (Matt. 1:23)
After the sermon on the mount, the people were so amazed at his teaching that they started following him everywhere. They were seeking more words of life and hope; and somehow they knew that this amazing Rabbi could do more. So the sick, the hungry, the sin-sick, those torn apart by the devil; and the scared found in Jesus what the world and religion could never do – heal lives, bodies, and souls.
This was what Isaiah said he would do. In 8:17, Matthew quotes Isaiah’s words – “He took up our infirmities and carried our diseases.” Did Jesus fulfill this prophecy? You be the judge. Notice Jesus’ words and actions when he was confronted by people with needs…
“I am willing.”
“I will go and heal him.”
“He touched her hand.”
“Healed all the sick.”
“Rebuked the winds and the waves.”
“Your sins are forgiven.”
"It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick.But go and learn what this means: 'I desire mercy, not sacrifice.' For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.”
Jesus, the Messiah, cares for the real needs of all people.
Barry
6-23-10
MATTHEW 7-9
What was the Messiah supposed to do? Save the world from sin - of course – but also to show the love, compassion, and healing of God. He was to be “Immanuel – God with us.” (Matt. 1:23)
After the sermon on the mount, the people were so amazed at his teaching that they started following him everywhere. They were seeking more words of life and hope; and somehow they knew that this amazing Rabbi could do more. So the sick, the hungry, the sin-sick, those torn apart by the devil; and the scared found in Jesus what the world and religion could never do – heal lives, bodies, and souls.
This was what Isaiah said he would do. In 8:17, Matthew quotes Isaiah’s words – “He took up our infirmities and carried our diseases.” Did Jesus fulfill this prophecy? You be the judge. Notice Jesus’ words and actions when he was confronted by people with needs…
“I am willing.”
“I will go and heal him.”
“He touched her hand.”
“Healed all the sick.”
“Rebuked the winds and the waves.”
“Your sins are forgiven.”
"It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick.But go and learn what this means: 'I desire mercy, not sacrifice.' For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.”
Jesus, the Messiah, cares for the real needs of all people.
Barry
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Jesus was a Rebel!
DAY 262
6-22-10
MATTHEW 5-6
Good Morning!
The revolution begins! Jesus is going to turn the world upside down. Blessed are the poor; the sad; and the persecuted!? Adultery of the heart? Love your enemy? Be perfect like God? Don’t store up treasure? Don’t worry? You’ve got to be kidding me!
The kingdom of heaven was rejected by so many because it was so different from the religion of the people. I’m not talking about different from the law or Judaism; I am talking about the distorted aberration of the Pharisees religious show. Jesus also was turning people away from the vain, worthless things the pagan’s were running after.
The Messiah was teaching a spiritual relationship with God that was so deep that one could be persecuted and wouldn’t matter. So as you read the Sermon on the Mount, I hope you notice that the old has gone and the new has come. Old religion and pagan living won’t cut it. Only a new spiritual relationship with God will.
If there is a quote from Jesus that can change a person’s life and eternity it has to be Matthew 6:33, “Seek first his kingdom and his righteousness.”
This is the way to heaven.
Barry
6-22-10
MATTHEW 5-6
Good Morning!
The revolution begins! Jesus is going to turn the world upside down. Blessed are the poor; the sad; and the persecuted!? Adultery of the heart? Love your enemy? Be perfect like God? Don’t store up treasure? Don’t worry? You’ve got to be kidding me!
The kingdom of heaven was rejected by so many because it was so different from the religion of the people. I’m not talking about different from the law or Judaism; I am talking about the distorted aberration of the Pharisees religious show. Jesus also was turning people away from the vain, worthless things the pagan’s were running after.
The Messiah was teaching a spiritual relationship with God that was so deep that one could be persecuted and wouldn’t matter. So as you read the Sermon on the Mount, I hope you notice that the old has gone and the new has come. Old religion and pagan living won’t cut it. Only a new spiritual relationship with God will.
If there is a quote from Jesus that can change a person’s life and eternity it has to be Matthew 6:33, “Seek first his kingdom and his righteousness.”
This is the way to heaven.
Barry
Monday, June 21, 2010
At Just the Right Time Messiah Arrives!
DAY 261
6-21-10
MATTHEW 1-4
After reading so many pages in the OT prophets of how God was going to bring all people together through the coming Messiah, the time has finally come. “At just the right time” (Rom. 5:6); and when “the time had fully come” (Gal. 4:4), Jesus was born into the world. Matthew shows the family tree of Jesus – filled good and bad people – but regular people for sure. However, his ordinary family comes with the greatest exception – Jesus was born the son of God.
The opening chapters of Matthew make it clear that Jesus was a Jew; that he was born in a miraculous way; that he was susceptible to human temptation; he was filled with Holy Spirit power; and filled with God’s great compassion for the poor; the sick; and the lost.
There is an OT quotation in Matthew 1:23 that we should thank God for, because it directly blesses us more than we can really understand. Matthew quotes Isaiah 7:14. Jesus came to save us for sure – but he also came to be Immanuel – “God with us”.
Never again is God somewhere out there. Through Christ, he is always with me.
Barry
6-21-10
MATTHEW 1-4
After reading so many pages in the OT prophets of how God was going to bring all people together through the coming Messiah, the time has finally come. “At just the right time” (Rom. 5:6); and when “the time had fully come” (Gal. 4:4), Jesus was born into the world. Matthew shows the family tree of Jesus – filled good and bad people – but regular people for sure. However, his ordinary family comes with the greatest exception – Jesus was born the son of God.
The opening chapters of Matthew make it clear that Jesus was a Jew; that he was born in a miraculous way; that he was susceptible to human temptation; he was filled with Holy Spirit power; and filled with God’s great compassion for the poor; the sick; and the lost.
There is an OT quotation in Matthew 1:23 that we should thank God for, because it directly blesses us more than we can really understand. Matthew quotes Isaiah 7:14. Jesus came to save us for sure – but he also came to be Immanuel – “God with us”.
Never again is God somewhere out there. Through Christ, he is always with me.
Barry
Friday, June 18, 2010
“Symbolic of things to come.”
DAY 258
6-18-10
ZECHARIAH 1-7
Good Morning!
Zechariah was given a messianic vision, “symbolic of things to come” (3:8). God’s judgment of his people and the nations; a new High Priest; the Branch; God’s holy presence in Jerusalem; and his expectations that righteousness and justice prevail; are the consistent message. We’ve seen this prophetic theme since the nation divided and God raised his servants – the Prophets.
I want us to understand the overall message we have been reading in the prophets, that the people of God deserve the punishment they are receiving. It is meant to cause them to repent and turn back to the Lord. Not only will God will forgive them; but he is planning to bless them – all people – through a new leader; a new Jerusalem; and a new nation. Read again…
"'Return to me,' declares the Lord Almighty, 'and I will return to you,' says the Lord Almighty. Do not be like your forefathers, to whom the earlier prophets proclaimed: This is what the Lord Almighty says: 'Turn from your evil ways and your evil practices.'" (1:3-4)
"Many nations will be joined with the Lord in that day and will become my people. I will live among you and you will know that the Lord Almighty has sent me to you. The Lord will inherit Judah as his portion in the holy land and will again choose Jerusalem. Be still before the Lord, all mankind, because he has roused himself from his holy dwelling." (2:11-13)
Just to be clear, this message is about Jesus, the savior of the whole world; and his church. We are the recipients of this blessing. We should praise God for everything he did to save his people then, and save us today. Do not give in to the temptation to dismiss the word of Zechariah and the other prophets. They were written for our benefit.
“We have the word of the prophets made more certain, and you will do well to pay attention to it, as to a light shining in a dark place…” (2 Peter 1:19)
Barry
6-18-10
ZECHARIAH 1-7
Good Morning!
Zechariah was given a messianic vision, “symbolic of things to come” (3:8). God’s judgment of his people and the nations; a new High Priest; the Branch; God’s holy presence in Jerusalem; and his expectations that righteousness and justice prevail; are the consistent message. We’ve seen this prophetic theme since the nation divided and God raised his servants – the Prophets.
I want us to understand the overall message we have been reading in the prophets, that the people of God deserve the punishment they are receiving. It is meant to cause them to repent and turn back to the Lord. Not only will God will forgive them; but he is planning to bless them – all people – through a new leader; a new Jerusalem; and a new nation. Read again…
"'Return to me,' declares the Lord Almighty, 'and I will return to you,' says the Lord Almighty. Do not be like your forefathers, to whom the earlier prophets proclaimed: This is what the Lord Almighty says: 'Turn from your evil ways and your evil practices.'" (1:3-4)
"Many nations will be joined with the Lord in that day and will become my people. I will live among you and you will know that the Lord Almighty has sent me to you. The Lord will inherit Judah as his portion in the holy land and will again choose Jerusalem. Be still before the Lord, all mankind, because he has roused himself from his holy dwelling." (2:11-13)
Just to be clear, this message is about Jesus, the savior of the whole world; and his church. We are the recipients of this blessing. We should praise God for everything he did to save his people then, and save us today. Do not give in to the temptation to dismiss the word of Zechariah and the other prophets. They were written for our benefit.
“We have the word of the prophets made more certain, and you will do well to pay attention to it, as to a light shining in a dark place…” (2 Peter 1:19)
Barry
Thursday, June 17, 2010
A Purse with a Hole in It.
DAY 257
6-17-10
HAGGAI 1-2
Good Morning!
Haggai’s message to the remnant of God’s people, who have returned to the land of Israel, is an excellent message to us now. Since their return from captivity they have neglected the rebuilding the Lord’s house and thereby have neglected their relationship with God.
We can be so busy building up our life that we neglect building up our relationship with the father. When that happens the blessings we need from God are not there. What happens when we are only concerned about ourselves? Read…
Hag 1:5-6 "Give careful thought to your ways. You have planted much, but have harvested little. You eat, but never have enough. You drink, but never have your fill. You put on clothes, but are not warm. You earn wages, only to put them in a purse with holes in it."
When we lose our focus, God still blesses us because he loves us. But his blessing will never be abundant without our faithful, God-focused life. Focus on God. Build a relationship with him. When you do, God’s blessings will not be lost in purse with a hole in it.
Barry
6-17-10
HAGGAI 1-2
Good Morning!
Haggai’s message to the remnant of God’s people, who have returned to the land of Israel, is an excellent message to us now. Since their return from captivity they have neglected the rebuilding the Lord’s house and thereby have neglected their relationship with God.
We can be so busy building up our life that we neglect building up our relationship with the father. When that happens the blessings we need from God are not there. What happens when we are only concerned about ourselves? Read…
Hag 1:5-6 "Give careful thought to your ways. You have planted much, but have harvested little. You eat, but never have enough. You drink, but never have your fill. You put on clothes, but are not warm. You earn wages, only to put them in a purse with holes in it."
When we lose our focus, God still blesses us because he loves us. But his blessing will never be abundant without our faithful, God-focused life. Focus on God. Build a relationship with him. When you do, God’s blessings will not be lost in purse with a hole in it.
Barry
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Mature Motivation
DAY 256
6-16-10
ZEPHANIAH 1-3
Good Morning!
Considering the assurance of judgment is a vital part of remaining faithful. Some say that fear is not a good motive for faithfulness. They are right only if fear is the only motive. However, love for God; thankfulness for salvation and blessings; along with the assurance that God will judge the unfaithful are very mature motivations.
Zephaniah let Judah know that God will judge and destroy them for their sin. With that assurance, God gives them incentives to repent and live righteously. The other assurance is that God will forgive and bless those who repent and walk humbly before him.
2:1-3 Gather together, gather together, O shameful nation, before the appointed time arrives and that day sweeps on like chaff, before the fierce anger of the Lord comes upon you, before the day of the Lord's wrath comes upon you. Seek the Lord, all you humble of the land, you who do what he commands. Seek righteousness, seek humility; perhaps you will be sheltered on the day of the Lord's anger.
3:12-13 But I will leave within you the meek and humble, who trust in the name of the Lord. The remnant of Israel will do no wrong; they will speak no lies, nor will deceit be found in their mouths. They will eat and lie down and no one will make them afraid.
Love God. Fear God. Obey God. Thank God!
Barry
6-16-10
ZEPHANIAH 1-3
Good Morning!
Considering the assurance of judgment is a vital part of remaining faithful. Some say that fear is not a good motive for faithfulness. They are right only if fear is the only motive. However, love for God; thankfulness for salvation and blessings; along with the assurance that God will judge the unfaithful are very mature motivations.
Zephaniah let Judah know that God will judge and destroy them for their sin. With that assurance, God gives them incentives to repent and live righteously. The other assurance is that God will forgive and bless those who repent and walk humbly before him.
2:1-3 Gather together, gather together, O shameful nation, before the appointed time arrives and that day sweeps on like chaff, before the fierce anger of the Lord comes upon you, before the day of the Lord's wrath comes upon you. Seek the Lord, all you humble of the land, you who do what he commands. Seek righteousness, seek humility; perhaps you will be sheltered on the day of the Lord's anger.
3:12-13 But I will leave within you the meek and humble, who trust in the name of the Lord. The remnant of Israel will do no wrong; they will speak no lies, nor will deceit be found in their mouths. They will eat and lie down and no one will make them afraid.
Love God. Fear God. Obey God. Thank God!
Barry
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Rejoicing in God No Matter What
DAY 255
6-15-10
HABAKKUK 1-3
Good Morning!
Can you imagine just sitting around and waiting for your own destruction? Could you function? Could you rejoice? Could you look forward to anything good? Could you keep in your mind that God blesses and rescues his people even from the punishment they deserve?
Habakkuk is a man of faith. Even though he hurts; worries; and complains; he knows God will bless. He knows he can rejoice in God in all circumstances. He knows who his savior is.
I want this kind of faith!!!
(3:16-18) I heard and my heart pounded, my lips quivered at the sound; decay crept into my bones, and my legs trembled. Yet I will wait patiently for the day of calamity to come on the nation invading us. Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Savior.
Have a blessed day.
Barry
6-15-10
HABAKKUK 1-3
Good Morning!
Can you imagine just sitting around and waiting for your own destruction? Could you function? Could you rejoice? Could you look forward to anything good? Could you keep in your mind that God blesses and rescues his people even from the punishment they deserve?
Habakkuk is a man of faith. Even though he hurts; worries; and complains; he knows God will bless. He knows he can rejoice in God in all circumstances. He knows who his savior is.
I want this kind of faith!!!
(3:16-18) I heard and my heart pounded, my lips quivered at the sound; decay crept into my bones, and my legs trembled. Yet I will wait patiently for the day of calamity to come on the nation invading us. Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Savior.
Have a blessed day.
Barry
Monday, June 14, 2010
The Complete Nature of God
DAY 254
6-14-10
NAHUM 1-3
Good Morning!
Quite wrongly, we assign to God the character traits we most identify with. Some seem to want God to be all loving and gentle all the time; and some only see his wrath and judgment. The Bible paints a better, well rounded picture of the Almighty.
God uses Nahum the prophet to condemn the Assyrians; and also to show that he is compassionate; and only punishes after evil people plot against him.
1:2-3 The Lord is a jealous and avenging God; the Lord takes vengeance and is filled with wrath. The Lord takes vengeance on his foes and maintains his wrath against his enemies. The Lord is slow to anger and great in power; the Lord will not leave the guilty unpunished.
1:7-9 The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in him, but with an overwhelming flood he will make an end of Nineveh; he will pursue his foes into darkness. Whatever they plot against the Lord he will bring to an end.
Nahum reminds me that God is kind, compassionate, and patient. Likewise, he is the righteous, holy judge of all mankind. I am thankful that God is full of grace. I would not realize that in its fullness without knowing that God is also full of wrath for un-repented of sin.
Barry
6-14-10
NAHUM 1-3
Good Morning!
Quite wrongly, we assign to God the character traits we most identify with. Some seem to want God to be all loving and gentle all the time; and some only see his wrath and judgment. The Bible paints a better, well rounded picture of the Almighty.
God uses Nahum the prophet to condemn the Assyrians; and also to show that he is compassionate; and only punishes after evil people plot against him.
1:2-3 The Lord is a jealous and avenging God; the Lord takes vengeance and is filled with wrath. The Lord takes vengeance on his foes and maintains his wrath against his enemies. The Lord is slow to anger and great in power; the Lord will not leave the guilty unpunished.
1:7-9 The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in him, but with an overwhelming flood he will make an end of Nineveh; he will pursue his foes into darkness. Whatever they plot against the Lord he will bring to an end.
Nahum reminds me that God is kind, compassionate, and patient. Likewise, he is the righteous, holy judge of all mankind. I am thankful that God is full of grace. I would not realize that in its fullness without knowing that God is also full of wrath for un-repented of sin.
Barry
Saturday, June 12, 2010
More than a Tale about a Whale
DAY 252
6-12-10
JONAH
Good Morning!
With all that Jonah went through - running from God and responsibility; deadly storms; three days in a whale; whale vomiting; preaching to pagans; and whining about God’s grace; it seems to me that he has a lot of credibility. If he were alive today he would understand how I have mirrored his experiences (except for the whale thing) and failures very closely.
His credibility lies in the fact that he can say with experience that God’s grace is better than idols; thanksgiving and sacrifice to God is better than doing your own thing; and following through on vows and promises is worth all struggles to fulfill - because nothing is more important than God’s salvation.
(2:8-9) "Those who cling to worthless idols forfeit the grace that could be theirs. But I, with a song of thanksgiving, will sacrifice to you. What I have vowed I will make good. Salvation comes from the Lord."
Don’t let the whale tale get all the attention. That miracle should never overshadow the main point of Jonah that God loves all people; wants all people to hear the truth and be saved; and gives us multiple chances to learn to obey him.
Barry
6-12-10
JONAH
Good Morning!
With all that Jonah went through - running from God and responsibility; deadly storms; three days in a whale; whale vomiting; preaching to pagans; and whining about God’s grace; it seems to me that he has a lot of credibility. If he were alive today he would understand how I have mirrored his experiences (except for the whale thing) and failures very closely.
His credibility lies in the fact that he can say with experience that God’s grace is better than idols; thanksgiving and sacrifice to God is better than doing your own thing; and following through on vows and promises is worth all struggles to fulfill - because nothing is more important than God’s salvation.
(2:8-9) "Those who cling to worthless idols forfeit the grace that could be theirs. But I, with a song of thanksgiving, will sacrifice to you. What I have vowed I will make good. Salvation comes from the Lord."
Don’t let the whale tale get all the attention. That miracle should never overshadow the main point of Jonah that God loves all people; wants all people to hear the truth and be saved; and gives us multiple chances to learn to obey him.
Barry
Friday, June 11, 2010
The Deception of Pride
DAY 251
6-11-10
OBADIAH
Good Morning!
One of the saddest things I encounter is Christians who have no confidence in their salvation. Even though we humbly place our salvation in the grace of God, we still can have confidence and assurance of where we will spend eternity. The opposite is just as sad. Some are so full of pride that they can’t conceive that they could ever be lost. Their lives are full of pride and sin; and yet they arrogantly believe God will over look it.
The short prophetic writing of Obadiah is not just a judgment against prideful Edom; it was a wake up call for Israel; and for us today as well. Solomon’s words “Pride goes before destruction” are so true. Sometimes we think we are safe when we are not.
(Obadiah 3-5) The pride of your heart has deceived you, you who live in the clefts of the rocks and make your home on the heights, you who say to yourself, 'Who can bring me down to the ground?' Though you soar like the eagle and make your nest among the stars, from there I will bring you down," declares the Lord.
The people of Edom were full of pride and thought they were safe in fortresses that they cut into caves in the sides of cliffs. They thought no one could touch them. They thought they were completely safe. God, however, is not foiled by such human fortresses. God will take them down for their sinful lives.
The only confidence we can have with God is trusting in his grace and humbly living before him. God will take down the proud from where ever they are. Have confidence in God and not in your self. Our safety and assurance is found in God’s grace and in our humble faith.
Barry
6-11-10
OBADIAH
Good Morning!
One of the saddest things I encounter is Christians who have no confidence in their salvation. Even though we humbly place our salvation in the grace of God, we still can have confidence and assurance of where we will spend eternity. The opposite is just as sad. Some are so full of pride that they can’t conceive that they could ever be lost. Their lives are full of pride and sin; and yet they arrogantly believe God will over look it.
The short prophetic writing of Obadiah is not just a judgment against prideful Edom; it was a wake up call for Israel; and for us today as well. Solomon’s words “Pride goes before destruction” are so true. Sometimes we think we are safe when we are not.
(Obadiah 3-5) The pride of your heart has deceived you, you who live in the clefts of the rocks and make your home on the heights, you who say to yourself, 'Who can bring me down to the ground?' Though you soar like the eagle and make your nest among the stars, from there I will bring you down," declares the Lord.
The people of Edom were full of pride and thought they were safe in fortresses that they cut into caves in the sides of cliffs. They thought no one could touch them. They thought they were completely safe. God, however, is not foiled by such human fortresses. God will take them down for their sinful lives.
The only confidence we can have with God is trusting in his grace and humbly living before him. God will take down the proud from where ever they are. Have confidence in God and not in your self. Our safety and assurance is found in God’s grace and in our humble faith.
Barry
Thursday, June 10, 2010
The Good Old Days are Now
DAY 250
6-10-10
AMOS 6-9
Good Morning!
Do you ever find yourself longing for the good old days? Everyone’s good old days are different – I guess it depends on how old you are; or what you have experienced in life. Mine are the days when I rode my bike to work; took my lunch in a bag; and punched out at 430 and never gave work another thought until I punched back in at 8 the next morning. Those were the good old days of my youth and zero pressure.
I know I can’t go back. I would never want to be 20 again, anyway. My life now is very good and I know one day I’ll look back at these days as the good old days. Israel had its good old days too – back when David reigned. Life was hard; there was a lot of war and killing; but David’s and Solomon’s days were the pinnacle of the nation.
So when God pronounces judgment on fallen Israel, he also points to the future days of the Messiah that will be like the good old days of David – back when Israel was faithful and prosperous. This new, good time will not be the product of the people; it will be a creation of God himself through Jesus.
"In that day I will restore David's fallen tent. I will repair its broken places, restore its ruins, and build it as it used to be.” Amos 9:11
In our life and in our faith, God will restore and repair our broken lives through Christ. No matter what we’ve gone through or what we face right now, our good days are always now and forever in Christ.
Barry
6-10-10
AMOS 6-9
Good Morning!
Do you ever find yourself longing for the good old days? Everyone’s good old days are different – I guess it depends on how old you are; or what you have experienced in life. Mine are the days when I rode my bike to work; took my lunch in a bag; and punched out at 430 and never gave work another thought until I punched back in at 8 the next morning. Those were the good old days of my youth and zero pressure.
I know I can’t go back. I would never want to be 20 again, anyway. My life now is very good and I know one day I’ll look back at these days as the good old days. Israel had its good old days too – back when David reigned. Life was hard; there was a lot of war and killing; but David’s and Solomon’s days were the pinnacle of the nation.
So when God pronounces judgment on fallen Israel, he also points to the future days of the Messiah that will be like the good old days of David – back when Israel was faithful and prosperous. This new, good time will not be the product of the people; it will be a creation of God himself through Jesus.
"In that day I will restore David's fallen tent. I will repair its broken places, restore its ruins, and build it as it used to be.” Amos 9:11
In our life and in our faith, God will restore and repair our broken lives through Christ. No matter what we’ve gone through or what we face right now, our good days are always now and forever in Christ.
Barry
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Seek God and Live
DAY 249
6-9-10
AMOS 1-5
Good Morning!
The word of the Lord comes to Amos and God gives his judgments against the evil nations that surround Israel. I can just picture the arrogant and sinful Israelites giving their “amen’s” as they hear Amos’ words…and then they hear that Israel and Judah are included the condemnation too!
Just like in Joel, God sent plagues, wars, and calamities upon them to wake them up; and they ignore what they know is true about God and about their sin. “I sent plagues among you…yet you have not returned to me” (4:10). They continued hypocritical worship and God rejected it…and them. “I hate, I despise your religious feasts; I cannot stand your assemblies. Even though you bring me burnt offerings and grain offerings, I will not accept them.” (5:21-22)
God’s call to his sinful and wayward children has always been the same. Repent, change, and come back. “Seek me and live…Seek good, not evil, that you may live. Then the Lord God Almighty will be with you, just as you say he is. Hate evil, love good; maintain justice in the courts.” (5:4 & 14-15)
God’s grace is never deserved and it is never unconditional. We must repent. His love, however, is completely unconditional – he loves us no matter what. That’s why God has shown himself to be so patient with us.
Thank God for his love. Thank God for his grace when we repent.
Barry
6-9-10
AMOS 1-5
Good Morning!
The word of the Lord comes to Amos and God gives his judgments against the evil nations that surround Israel. I can just picture the arrogant and sinful Israelites giving their “amen’s” as they hear Amos’ words…and then they hear that Israel and Judah are included the condemnation too!
Just like in Joel, God sent plagues, wars, and calamities upon them to wake them up; and they ignore what they know is true about God and about their sin. “I sent plagues among you…yet you have not returned to me” (4:10). They continued hypocritical worship and God rejected it…and them. “I hate, I despise your religious feasts; I cannot stand your assemblies. Even though you bring me burnt offerings and grain offerings, I will not accept them.” (5:21-22)
God’s call to his sinful and wayward children has always been the same. Repent, change, and come back. “Seek me and live…Seek good, not evil, that you may live. Then the Lord God Almighty will be with you, just as you say he is. Hate evil, love good; maintain justice in the courts.” (5:4 & 14-15)
God’s grace is never deserved and it is never unconditional. We must repent. His love, however, is completely unconditional – he loves us no matter what. That’s why God has shown himself to be so patient with us.
Thank God for his love. Thank God for his grace when we repent.
Barry
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
God’s Wake Up Call
DAY 248
6-8-10
JOEL 1-3
Good Morning!
When catastrophe strikes we can get so lost in our woes and struggles that we forget there can be an even more catastrophic event that escapes our attention. God’s people suffered from a mighty swarm of locusts that decimated their crops and it seemed that everything was falling apart. Joel’s message was that none of this can compare to the terror of the Day of Judgment for sinful people who won’t repent.
Joel 2:12-14 ‘Even now,’ declares the Lord, ‘return to me with all your heart, with fasting and weeping and mourning.’ Rend your heart and not your garments. Return to the Lord your God, for he is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love, and he relents from sending calamity.
God is a gracious, compassionate, and forgiving God. He desires that his sinful people return to him by changing their hearts and not just outside. Calamitous events should wake us up to the fact that the most calamitous event a person will ever face is facing God in judgment after living a sinful, unrepentant life.
So, keep in mind that we must live righteously before God; we must repent of our sins. When we do, God’s word comes true…“Their bloodguilt, which I have not pardoned, I will pardon.” (Joel 3:21)
Barry
6-8-10
JOEL 1-3
Good Morning!
When catastrophe strikes we can get so lost in our woes and struggles that we forget there can be an even more catastrophic event that escapes our attention. God’s people suffered from a mighty swarm of locusts that decimated their crops and it seemed that everything was falling apart. Joel’s message was that none of this can compare to the terror of the Day of Judgment for sinful people who won’t repent.
Joel 2:12-14 ‘Even now,’ declares the Lord, ‘return to me with all your heart, with fasting and weeping and mourning.’ Rend your heart and not your garments. Return to the Lord your God, for he is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love, and he relents from sending calamity.
God is a gracious, compassionate, and forgiving God. He desires that his sinful people return to him by changing their hearts and not just outside. Calamitous events should wake us up to the fact that the most calamitous event a person will ever face is facing God in judgment after living a sinful, unrepentant life.
So, keep in mind that we must live righteously before God; we must repent of our sins. When we do, God’s word comes true…“Their bloodguilt, which I have not pardoned, I will pardon.” (Joel 3:21)
Barry
Saturday, June 5, 2010
God’s Timing
DAY 247
6-5-10
DANIEL 10-12
Good Morning!
I love the visions of Daniel. In chapter 10-12 Daniel is made aware of the battles and the working out of God’s plans among the nations to bring the Messiah. God and his angels are working this plan out; and it will unfold in God’s timing.
This reminds me of how often God’s word tell us about the unfolding of his plans and his timing.
Dan 2:21 “He changes times and seasons; he sets up kings and deposes them.”
Dan 12:7 "It will be for a time, times and half a time. When the power of the holy people has been finally broken, all these things will be completed."
Acts 1:7 "It is not for you to know the times or dates the Father has set by his own authority.”
Rom 5:6 You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly.
Gal 4:4 When the time had fully come, God sent his Son.
Daniel was so distressed at what he was shown. He stressed over what was happening and when. That is the way of man. We want to know everything. We want to God’s plans and timing. God lets us know what he wants us to know when he wants us to know it. What we should keep in mind is that whether we get it or not, “we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” (Rom. 8:28)
Rest content, God is working. He is in control.
Barry
6-5-10
DANIEL 10-12
Good Morning!
I love the visions of Daniel. In chapter 10-12 Daniel is made aware of the battles and the working out of God’s plans among the nations to bring the Messiah. God and his angels are working this plan out; and it will unfold in God’s timing.
This reminds me of how often God’s word tell us about the unfolding of his plans and his timing.
Dan 2:21 “He changes times and seasons; he sets up kings and deposes them.”
Dan 12:7 "It will be for a time, times and half a time. When the power of the holy people has been finally broken, all these things will be completed."
Acts 1:7 "It is not for you to know the times or dates the Father has set by his own authority.”
Rom 5:6 You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly.
Gal 4:4 When the time had fully come, God sent his Son.
Daniel was so distressed at what he was shown. He stressed over what was happening and when. That is the way of man. We want to know everything. We want to God’s plans and timing. God lets us know what he wants us to know when he wants us to know it. What we should keep in mind is that whether we get it or not, “we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” (Rom. 8:28)
Rest content, God is working. He is in control.
Barry
Friday, June 4, 2010
What? Me Worry?
DAY 246
6-4-10
DANIEL 7-9
Good Morning!
While in captivity, Daniel is given visions from God concerning the pagan kingdoms that will rule with dominance and power over Israel and the world; but that they will be limited in their strength. Daniel frets and worries and loses sleep over the dreams. Why? Daniel is a rock-solid believer. He knows that Babylon and the Medes and Persians are in no way stronger than God or everlasting like God’s people. He’s got to believe that the Greeks and the nation to come after them will be strong; but that God still reigns over the whole world.
We are just like Daniel. We believe in the power of God and that he is sovereign over all the earth. Yet we worry and fret over rulers; nations; and the future. God understands that although we have total faith in him, we will still struggle with understanding the future and trusting his power.
Let God’s word remind us again that his plans for the world are meant to bless his children.
The God who made the world and everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth and does not live in temples built by hands. And he is not served by human hands, as if he needed anything, because he himself gives all men life and breath and everything else. 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. For in him we live and move and have our being. (Acts 17:24-28)
I, for one, do not want to waste time, or energy, or sleep worrying about nations and politics. I know that God is in charge. He is planning and working for my good. Therefore I will pray; be informed; and vote. Beyond that, I have better, more important things to concern myself with.
Barry
6-4-10
DANIEL 7-9
Good Morning!
While in captivity, Daniel is given visions from God concerning the pagan kingdoms that will rule with dominance and power over Israel and the world; but that they will be limited in their strength. Daniel frets and worries and loses sleep over the dreams. Why? Daniel is a rock-solid believer. He knows that Babylon and the Medes and Persians are in no way stronger than God or everlasting like God’s people. He’s got to believe that the Greeks and the nation to come after them will be strong; but that God still reigns over the whole world.
We are just like Daniel. We believe in the power of God and that he is sovereign over all the earth. Yet we worry and fret over rulers; nations; and the future. God understands that although we have total faith in him, we will still struggle with understanding the future and trusting his power.
Let God’s word remind us again that his plans for the world are meant to bless his children.
The God who made the world and everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth and does not live in temples built by hands. And he is not served by human hands, as if he needed anything, because he himself gives all men life and breath and everything else. 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. For in him we live and move and have our being. (Acts 17:24-28)
I, for one, do not want to waste time, or energy, or sleep worrying about nations and politics. I know that God is in charge. He is planning and working for my good. Therefore I will pray; be informed; and vote. Beyond that, I have better, more important things to concern myself with.
Barry
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Politely Stand Firm
DAY 244
6-2-10
DANIEL 1-3
Good Morning!
During the time of captivity, God was working among the faithful. Daniel and his three friends who were being trained to work with their captors were blessed by God with abilities, wisdom, and spiritual strength. When they were required to go far beyond God’s commands and their conscience, they politely, but from firmly refused to defile themselves with unclean food and pagan worship.
Dan 1:8 Daniel resolved not to defile himself with the royal food and wine, and he asked the chief official for permission not to defile himself this way.
Dan 1:12-14 12 "Please test your servants for ten day…treat your servants in accordance with what you see."
Dan 3:16-18 "O Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you in this matter…we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up."
We live in a time where Christians are far too quick compromise faith, truth, and righteousness. To get along we compromise on the Word. To be accepted we act like the people of the world. If we do this when we have such wonderful freedom, how will we fare if our freedom is taken away?
Notice from these few verses that God’s men resolved (firmly made up their minds) to follow God. Yet they were not obnoxious about it – they were polite. In this same way we can influence people for Christ, if we likewise stand firm and speak the truth in love.
Barry
6-2-10
DANIEL 1-3
Good Morning!
During the time of captivity, God was working among the faithful. Daniel and his three friends who were being trained to work with their captors were blessed by God with abilities, wisdom, and spiritual strength. When they were required to go far beyond God’s commands and their conscience, they politely, but from firmly refused to defile themselves with unclean food and pagan worship.
Dan 1:8 Daniel resolved not to defile himself with the royal food and wine, and he asked the chief official for permission not to defile himself this way.
Dan 1:12-14 12 "Please test your servants for ten day…treat your servants in accordance with what you see."
Dan 3:16-18 "O Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you in this matter…we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up."
We live in a time where Christians are far too quick compromise faith, truth, and righteousness. To get along we compromise on the Word. To be accepted we act like the people of the world. If we do this when we have such wonderful freedom, how will we fare if our freedom is taken away?
Notice from these few verses that God’s men resolved (firmly made up their minds) to follow God. Yet they were not obnoxious about it – they were polite. In this same way we can influence people for Christ, if we likewise stand firm and speak the truth in love.
Barry
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
THE LORD IS THERE
DAY 243
6-1-10
EZEKIEL 46-48
Good Morning!
Ezekiel’s vision of what life will be like when God brings back the scattered people to Israel and Jerusalem, is prophetic view of a new Jerusalem; and a new temple; and a renewed love for the law. The most important part of the new life for God’s people is that “THE LORD IS THERE.” (48:35)
Ezekiel is looking forward to the time of “Immanuel;” just like Isaiah was in Isaiah 7:14. It will be a time of “God with us.” Ezekiel, just like his brothers Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Joel, were looking forward to the days of the Messiah and Spirit of God being among the people.
Matthew made it clear that Jesus was the fulfillment of “God with us” (Matt.1:23). John made it clear that Jesus was the fulfillment of God with us, “The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us” (John 1:14).
Christians are so blessed to have what the prophets foresaw; that through the Messiah we can experience a new life where God will always be with us by his Son; through his Spirit.
“Surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” (Matt. 28:20)
Barry
6-1-10
EZEKIEL 46-48
Good Morning!
Ezekiel’s vision of what life will be like when God brings back the scattered people to Israel and Jerusalem, is prophetic view of a new Jerusalem; and a new temple; and a renewed love for the law. The most important part of the new life for God’s people is that “THE LORD IS THERE.” (48:35)
Ezekiel is looking forward to the time of “Immanuel;” just like Isaiah was in Isaiah 7:14. It will be a time of “God with us.” Ezekiel, just like his brothers Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Joel, were looking forward to the days of the Messiah and Spirit of God being among the people.
Matthew made it clear that Jesus was the fulfillment of “God with us” (Matt.1:23). John made it clear that Jesus was the fulfillment of God with us, “The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us” (John 1:14).
Christians are so blessed to have what the prophets foresaw; that through the Messiah we can experience a new life where God will always be with us by his Son; through his Spirit.
“Surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” (Matt. 28:20)
Barry
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