In Psalm 132 we are reminded of David's resolve to build a temple of the Lord and His willingness to sacrifice rest and sleep to accomplish the task. Though David was not allowed to build the temple, He made plans, gathered materials, and passed on the specific instructions to his son Solomon. David was a man after God's own heart because of His willingness to serve the Lord wholeheartedly. God put the desire in His heart and He responded in a way that pleased Him. Are we willing to serve on God's terms, to do what the Lord allows and stop when He says your assignment is complete?
David's service on God's terms brought blessings to all of His descendants.
Psalm 133 speaks of unity. 1 "How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in unity!..3b For there the LORD bestows his blessing, even life forevermore." Here we can see where this is pleasing to God and ties unity hand in hand with blessings and even life in the Lord.
In Psalm 134 we are told to praise the Lord. As we minister we must never take lightly praising our Lord. We are to do this as an act of obedience even as servants of the "maker of heaven and earth."
2nd Corinthians 10:2"I beg you that when I come I may not have to be as bold as I expect to be toward some people who think that we live by the standards of this world. 3For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. 4The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. 5We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ." When Christ sends someone or comes Himself, what will our spiritual life be like? What will we be found doing or being involved in?
will it be an activity directed by Him or us?
15b "Our hope is that, as your faith continues to grow, our area of activity among you will greatly expand, 16so that we can preach the gospel in the regions beyond you." Let's continue to be caught up in the activity of God and walk together with Him as we overcome strongholds together as the Lord would have us do.
Tomorrow I intend to read Psalms 135-136; 2nd Corinthians 11:1-15
Monday, August 31, 2009
Saturday, August 29, 2009
Psalm 126-128; 2 Corinthians 8
Psalm 126 reminds me of the old hymn we will come rejoicing bringing in the sheaves. Do you have someone out there being held captive by the enemy? Don't worry, continue to pray until the Lord brings them back from that far away place. He knows them and knows what He is doing. God is faithful to answer prayers. 2 Our mouths were filled with laughter, our tongues with songs of joy. Then it was said among the nations,
"The LORD has done great things for them...5 Those who sow in tears will reap with songs of joy. "
Psalm 127 says 1 "Unless the LORD builds the house, its builders labor in vain. Unless the LORD watches over the city, the watchmen stand guard in vain." We are to build a foundation on the Lord and let Him be our security and watch over the completion of His promised blessings in our life. Building it our way many times brings about human results and we end up with consequences instead of blessings. God has plans to do more that we can even think or imagine (Ephesians 3:20). Trust Him and watch it unfold.
Psalm 128 says 1 "Blessed are all who fear the LORD, who walk in his ways."
Healthy fear and trembling and awe in God's presence are the earmarks of an understanding of the proper relationship with God. The blessings come to those who understand that and stand in the presence of God and say Isaiah 6:5 "Woe to me!" I cried. "I am ruined! For I am a man of unclean lips, and I live among a people of unclean lips, and my eyes have seen the King, the LORD Almighty."
2 Corinthians 8 tells us that giving out of poverty. We are comfortable giving when we understand the provision. Giving trusting for God's provision is just as necessary and challenging. We are challenged in this area: 8"I am not commanding you, but I want to test the sincerity of your love by comparing it with the earnestness of others. 9For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, so that you through his poverty might become rich. 10And here is my advice about what is best for you in this matter: Last year you were the first not only to give but also to have the desire to do so. 11Now finish the work, so that your eager willingness to do it may be matched by your completion of it, according to your means. 12For if the willingness is there, the gift is acceptable according to what one has, not according to what he does not have." Lets earnestly petition the Lord here Malachi 3:10 Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this," says the LORD Almighty, "and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that you will not have room enough for it.
Trust the Lord God in each of these areas and see what He will do next.
"The LORD has done great things for them...5 Those who sow in tears will reap with songs of joy. "
Psalm 127 says 1 "Unless the LORD builds the house, its builders labor in vain. Unless the LORD watches over the city, the watchmen stand guard in vain." We are to build a foundation on the Lord and let Him be our security and watch over the completion of His promised blessings in our life. Building it our way many times brings about human results and we end up with consequences instead of blessings. God has plans to do more that we can even think or imagine (Ephesians 3:20). Trust Him and watch it unfold.
Psalm 128 says 1 "Blessed are all who fear the LORD, who walk in his ways."
Healthy fear and trembling and awe in God's presence are the earmarks of an understanding of the proper relationship with God. The blessings come to those who understand that and stand in the presence of God and say Isaiah 6:5 "Woe to me!" I cried. "I am ruined! For I am a man of unclean lips, and I live among a people of unclean lips, and my eyes have seen the King, the LORD Almighty."
2 Corinthians 8 tells us that giving out of poverty. We are comfortable giving when we understand the provision. Giving trusting for God's provision is just as necessary and challenging. We are challenged in this area: 8"I am not commanding you, but I want to test the sincerity of your love by comparing it with the earnestness of others. 9For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, so that you through his poverty might become rich. 10And here is my advice about what is best for you in this matter: Last year you were the first not only to give but also to have the desire to do so. 11Now finish the work, so that your eager willingness to do it may be matched by your completion of it, according to your means. 12For if the willingness is there, the gift is acceptable according to what one has, not according to what he does not have." Lets earnestly petition the Lord here Malachi 3:10 Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this," says the LORD Almighty, "and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that you will not have room enough for it.
Trust the Lord God in each of these areas and see what He will do next.
Friday, August 28, 2009
Psalm 123-125; 2 Corinthians 7
In Psalm 123 we are encouraged to look to the Lord for deliverance and mercy in the life of the people of God. Who are we looking for for guidance? Who do we turn to first in time of need? The Lord wants to have that rightful place in our life.
In Psalm 124 we are to acknowledge who has delivered us from our strife and turmoil. 8 "Our help is in the name of the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth." After we are rescued whom do we give the credit to?
In Psalm 125 the Lord is our unshakable mountain. 2 "As the mountains surround Jerusalem, so the LORD surrounds his people both now and forevermore." We can rest assured knowing the Lord is with us now and forever.
In 2 Corinthians 7 we see Paul is working through some hard things he had addressed in their first letter. It had made them sorrowful. This is sometimes necessary for repentance. 10"Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death." God knows where we are with Him and what adjustments He intends to make. He also knows what it will take to get our attention. Stay closely connected to Him so we can be sensitive to the Holy Spirit during these times. Then we can be willing for Him to make these without the pain involved after we go our own way.
In Psalm 124 we are to acknowledge who has delivered us from our strife and turmoil. 8 "Our help is in the name of the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth." After we are rescued whom do we give the credit to?
In Psalm 125 the Lord is our unshakable mountain. 2 "As the mountains surround Jerusalem, so the LORD surrounds his people both now and forevermore." We can rest assured knowing the Lord is with us now and forever.
In 2 Corinthians 7 we see Paul is working through some hard things he had addressed in their first letter. It had made them sorrowful. This is sometimes necessary for repentance. 10"Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death." God knows where we are with Him and what adjustments He intends to make. He also knows what it will take to get our attention. Stay closely connected to Him so we can be sensitive to the Holy Spirit during these times. Then we can be willing for Him to make these without the pain involved after we go our own way.
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Psalm 120-122; 2 Corinthians 6
The Psalmist tells us in 120 that when we call to the Lord He answers in our distress. Also when we ask for lying tongue to be removed He does that whether it's our own we are battling or others around us. He has the power to both overcome personally and deliver us from our oppressors. Ask and He will save you.
In Psalm 121 we see the Lord being our help when we lift our eyes to the hills. Put your eyes on Him and He will not let you slip. 5 The LORD watches over you— the LORD is your shade at your right hand; 6 the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night. 7 The LORD will keep you from all harm— he will watch over your life; 8 the LORD will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore. Do you ask for help with the little things?
Psalm 122:1 I rejoiced with those who said to me, "Let us go to the house of the LORD." We are to rejoice and go into God's house. Bring someone with you and both of you will be glad you did. Then we see prayer for the city of God and for peace security for His people. When is the last time you prayed for your town and the people in it? I believe prayer is the foundation of the work of God. As we connect closely to Him, He prompts us to pray for the things He is concerned with and the people who are crying out to Him. Pray for them and see what God does next.
In 2 Corinthians 6 we are asked not to receive God's grace in vain. A great price has been paid by many to praise His name and follow Him publicly. Many have given their lives to translate His word into our language and be able to give it to another person without fear. Do whatever you have to do to tell others about our Lord and you will see Him work in an incredible way through your life. As we love God and love His people we will see what He does to empower us to follow Him in that task.
It also talks about being unequally yoked with unbelievers. When we marry or partner with an unbeliever we many times are doing that under our own direction and not the Lord's. We must make sure our endeavors are with like-minded people. How are we going to do that? We are to pray seeking God's direction above our own selfish desires. If you are already in a relationship or married to a non-believer, pray for God's guidance there that you can be a light and an example not by what you say, but how you live your life. A famous person said the greatest sermon is not preached but is a life lived out through faith.
In Psalm 121 we see the Lord being our help when we lift our eyes to the hills. Put your eyes on Him and He will not let you slip. 5 The LORD watches over you— the LORD is your shade at your right hand; 6 the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night. 7 The LORD will keep you from all harm— he will watch over your life; 8 the LORD will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore. Do you ask for help with the little things?
Psalm 122:1 I rejoiced with those who said to me, "Let us go to the house of the LORD." We are to rejoice and go into God's house. Bring someone with you and both of you will be glad you did. Then we see prayer for the city of God and for peace security for His people. When is the last time you prayed for your town and the people in it? I believe prayer is the foundation of the work of God. As we connect closely to Him, He prompts us to pray for the things He is concerned with and the people who are crying out to Him. Pray for them and see what God does next.
In 2 Corinthians 6 we are asked not to receive God's grace in vain. A great price has been paid by many to praise His name and follow Him publicly. Many have given their lives to translate His word into our language and be able to give it to another person without fear. Do whatever you have to do to tell others about our Lord and you will see Him work in an incredible way through your life. As we love God and love His people we will see what He does to empower us to follow Him in that task.
It also talks about being unequally yoked with unbelievers. When we marry or partner with an unbeliever we many times are doing that under our own direction and not the Lord's. We must make sure our endeavors are with like-minded people. How are we going to do that? We are to pray seeking God's direction above our own selfish desires. If you are already in a relationship or married to a non-believer, pray for God's guidance there that you can be a light and an example not by what you say, but how you live your life. A famous person said the greatest sermon is not preached but is a life lived out through faith.
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Psalm 119:89-176; 2nd Corinthians 5
I have strung together some verses from Psalm 119 to show us how God changes our heart and draws us to desire Him and His word. 105 "Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path...120 My flesh trembles in fear of you; I stand in awe of your laws....124 Deal with your servant according to your love and teach me your decrees. 125 I am your servant; give me discernment that I may understand your statutes...133 Direct my footsteps according to your word; let no sin rule over me. 134 Redeem me from the oppression of men, that I may obey your precepts...140 Your promises have been thoroughly tested, and your servant loves them. 173 May your hand be ready to help me, for I have chosen your precepts...176 I have strayed like a lost sheep. Seek your servant, for I have not forgotten your commands." (NIV)
The psalm tells us of God's endurance and how we can have assurance of His steadfast love through the way He has provided stability in the earth and meeting our physical needs. Are we trembling in awe of a holy, righteous God? Do we delight in His word or are we offended? Do we try to change the meaning to fit what we are comfortable with? You can see here how the Lord changes our heart and our desires as we trust and follow Him. Even when we wander the Good Shepherd continues to pursue us and restore us to Him and His people.
In 2nd Corinthians 5 Paul describes this hope we have in Christ as a building from God an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands. We long for the day we will be with the Lord and those faithful who have gone before us. 14"For Christ's love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died. 15And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again...17Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!..20b We implore you on Christ's behalf: Be reconciled to God. 21God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God."
Christ's love compels us to take up our cross daily as a servant to our Master. His love gives us the strength to carry out the task with hopeful expectation that we will be useful in His plan to reconcile His people to Him. Do you view yourself as someone whom God can accomplish this through? Christ tells us that through Him nothing is impossible. Trust HIM and watch as HE accomplishes the impossible through your life today.
Posted by Dan Holley at 7:49 AM
The psalm tells us of God's endurance and how we can have assurance of His steadfast love through the way He has provided stability in the earth and meeting our physical needs. Are we trembling in awe of a holy, righteous God? Do we delight in His word or are we offended? Do we try to change the meaning to fit what we are comfortable with? You can see here how the Lord changes our heart and our desires as we trust and follow Him. Even when we wander the Good Shepherd continues to pursue us and restore us to Him and His people.
In 2nd Corinthians 5 Paul describes this hope we have in Christ as a building from God an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands. We long for the day we will be with the Lord and those faithful who have gone before us. 14"For Christ's love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died. 15And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again...17Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!..20b We implore you on Christ's behalf: Be reconciled to God. 21God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God."
Christ's love compels us to take up our cross daily as a servant to our Master. His love gives us the strength to carry out the task with hopeful expectation that we will be useful in His plan to reconcile His people to Him. Do you view yourself as someone whom God can accomplish this through? Christ tells us that through Him nothing is impossible. Trust HIM and watch as HE accomplishes the impossible through your life today.
Posted by Dan Holley at 7:49 AM
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Psalm 105-106; Galatians 5
Psalms 105 is a recollection of God's powerful deliverance. We should remember how the Lord brings us out of bondage with an inheritance that is to be used by Him in our lives. He will do this in a miraculous way to bring others into an understanding of God's incredible love and presence in the lives of His people. Where are you today? What mountain do you need moved? Trust in the Lord and give it to Him in prayer knowing and believing He will answer and you will see God bring you from where you are to where you never imagined you could be.
Psalms 106 continues the story of the people of God. They knew the ways of God, but kept walking in disobedience until He was ready to pour out His wrath upon His people. 23 "So he said he would destroy them— had not Moses, his chosen one, stood in the breach before him to keep his wrath from destroying them." (NIV)
Who has God chosen you to stand in the gap for? I believe if we stand in the gap in prayer and go to those He has placed in our lives with the message He has given us, the consequences of their behavior will be forgiven. James 5:16b "The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective. 17 Elijah was a man just like us. He prayed earnestly that it would not rain, and it did not rain on the land for three and a half years. 18 Again he prayed, and the heavens gave rain, and the earth produced its crops. 19 My brothers, if one of you should wander from the truth and someone should bring him back, 20 remember this: Whoever turns a sinner from the error of his way will save him from death and cover over a multitude of sins."
Who is the Lord prompting you to pray for today? Pray believing God will do this and see what He will do.
Galatians 5 tells us we are to live in the and we will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature. Legalism causes us to live in the flesh and not in the spirit where there is victory over the sinful nature. When we live by the spirit of the law and not the letter of the law we can truly find freedom in Christ. If the law was sufficient then Christ died for nothing. God is just and loving and would not send His Son without good reason. He knew the consequences of life apart from Him and Jesus willingly took on the task. Where are you today with the Lord? He knows and you know. He wants you to come back to where He tells us we should be and remain in Him.
Psalms 106 continues the story of the people of God. They knew the ways of God, but kept walking in disobedience until He was ready to pour out His wrath upon His people. 23 "So he said he would destroy them— had not Moses, his chosen one, stood in the breach before him to keep his wrath from destroying them." (NIV)
Who has God chosen you to stand in the gap for? I believe if we stand in the gap in prayer and go to those He has placed in our lives with the message He has given us, the consequences of their behavior will be forgiven. James 5:16b "The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective. 17 Elijah was a man just like us. He prayed earnestly that it would not rain, and it did not rain on the land for three and a half years. 18 Again he prayed, and the heavens gave rain, and the earth produced its crops. 19 My brothers, if one of you should wander from the truth and someone should bring him back, 20 remember this: Whoever turns a sinner from the error of his way will save him from death and cover over a multitude of sins."
Who is the Lord prompting you to pray for today? Pray believing God will do this and see what He will do.
Galatians 5 tells us we are to live in the and we will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature. Legalism causes us to live in the flesh and not in the spirit where there is victory over the sinful nature. When we live by the spirit of the law and not the letter of the law we can truly find freedom in Christ. If the law was sufficient then Christ died for nothing. God is just and loving and would not send His Son without good reason. He knew the consequences of life apart from Him and Jesus willingly took on the task. Where are you today with the Lord? He knows and you know. He wants you to come back to where He tells us we should be and remain in Him.
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Psalm 100-102; Galatians 3
Psalm 100 says shout joy to the Lord all the earth. We are to worship the Lord with gladness and come before Him with joyful song. This is a command. When we do this as an act of obedience the Lord fills us with His presence. 3 "Know that the LORD is God.
It is he who made us, and we are his ; we are his people, the sheep of his pasture 4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise give thanks to him and praise his name. 5 For the LORD is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations."
Psalm 101 says we are to set before our eyes no vile thing. Covetousness is the last commandment and it is a secret sin that the Lord knows will ruin us as quickly as anything else. That is why He told the rich young ruler to sell all his possessions and follow Him. We are to get these things out of the Lord's rightful place in our lives so we can truly experience worship.
In Psalms 102 Jesus is prophesied to be our deliverer. He is our life and we are to tell others the good news of Christ and the life He brings. 19 "The LORD looked down from his sanctuary on high, from heaven he viewed the earth, 20 to hear the groans of the prisoners and release those condemned to death." Without Him we are all condemned but with Him we have life forever.
In Galatians 3 we see we are justified by faith in Christ as Abraham's seed. We are sons of the promise through the seed of Abraham which is Christ Jesus. 13 "Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us, for it is written: "Cursed is everyone who is hung on a tree." 14 "He redeemed us in order that the blessing given to Abraham might come to the Gentiles through Christ Jesus, so that by faith we might receive the promise of the Spirit...27for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ." We are all one in Christ.
It is he who made us, and we are his ; we are his people, the sheep of his pasture 4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise give thanks to him and praise his name. 5 For the LORD is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations."
Psalm 101 says we are to set before our eyes no vile thing. Covetousness is the last commandment and it is a secret sin that the Lord knows will ruin us as quickly as anything else. That is why He told the rich young ruler to sell all his possessions and follow Him. We are to get these things out of the Lord's rightful place in our lives so we can truly experience worship.
In Psalms 102 Jesus is prophesied to be our deliverer. He is our life and we are to tell others the good news of Christ and the life He brings. 19 "The LORD looked down from his sanctuary on high, from heaven he viewed the earth, 20 to hear the groans of the prisoners and release those condemned to death." Without Him we are all condemned but with Him we have life forever.
In Galatians 3 we see we are justified by faith in Christ as Abraham's seed. We are sons of the promise through the seed of Abraham which is Christ Jesus. 13 "Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us, for it is written: "Cursed is everyone who is hung on a tree." 14 "He redeemed us in order that the blessing given to Abraham might come to the Gentiles through Christ Jesus, so that by faith we might receive the promise of the Spirit...27for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ." We are all one in Christ.
Saturday, August 15, 2009
Psalm 91-93; 1 Peter 5 (New International Version)
Psalm 91
14 "Because he loves me," says the LORD, "I will rescue him;
I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name.
15 He will call upon me, and I will answer him;
I will be with him in trouble,
I will deliver him and honor him.
16 With long life will I satisfy him
and show him my salvation."
Psalm 92
12 The righteous will flourish like a palm tree,
they will grow like a cedar of Lebanon;
13 planted in the house of the LORD,
they will flourish in the courts of our God.
14 They will still bear fruit in old age,
they will stay fresh and green...
Psalm 92
1 The LORD reigns, he is robed in majesty;
the LORD is robed in majesty
and is armed with strength.
The world is firmly established;
it cannot be moved.
!st Peter 5
5Young men, in the same way be submissive to those who are older. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because,
"God opposes the proud
but gives grace to the humble."[a] 6Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. 7Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
8Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. 9Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings. (NIV)
Not a lot of time to comment today. Meditate and pray some of these verses today and see how the Lord will minister to you. Know I am praying for you.
14 "Because he loves me," says the LORD, "I will rescue him;
I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name.
15 He will call upon me, and I will answer him;
I will be with him in trouble,
I will deliver him and honor him.
16 With long life will I satisfy him
and show him my salvation."
Psalm 92
12 The righteous will flourish like a palm tree,
they will grow like a cedar of Lebanon;
13 planted in the house of the LORD,
they will flourish in the courts of our God.
14 They will still bear fruit in old age,
they will stay fresh and green...
Psalm 92
1 The LORD reigns, he is robed in majesty;
the LORD is robed in majesty
and is armed with strength.
The world is firmly established;
it cannot be moved.
!st Peter 5
5Young men, in the same way be submissive to those who are older. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because,
"God opposes the proud
but gives grace to the humble."[a] 6Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. 7Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
8Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. 9Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings. (NIV)
Not a lot of time to comment today. Meditate and pray some of these verses today and see how the Lord will minister to you. Know I am praying for you.
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Psalm 87-88; 1 Peter 3
Psalm 87 is prophecy of Christ being established through the family of David who is the foundation of our relationship with God. It is to go down in history that God decreed that Jerusalem be the city of God and that His son would be coming through the descendants of the city. God is establishing foundations in our lives and families as well. We are to understand Him through our relationship with Christ who will lay a foundation and establish the effective worship in families for generations to come.
In Psalm 88 we read that God is bringing us to an understanding of what it will be like to have all of our friends view us as repulsive and to be close to death. We may be there some day and if thing happen in our life as in Job’s life then what are to we to do? The Lord wants us to cry out to Him, and He will pull us out of the pit of depression, despair, hopelessness, drug addiction, or alcoholism and deliver us to a saving secure relationship with Him for our hope and daily rock to lean on.
1st Peter 3 talks about our daily example to our husband, wife or others around us. Our spirit ministers to others louder than our words. The work God has done in us should build strong relationships that will speak to the soul of our associates, family and friends. Husbands should treat wives with respect and wives should lead a life that would draw husbands to the Lord. 1Pe 3:8 “Finally, all of you, live in harmony with one another; be sympathetic, love as brothers, be compassionate and humble. 9 Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing. 10 For, Whoever would love life and see good days must keep his tongue from evil and his lips from deceitful speech.”
In Psalm 88 we read that God is bringing us to an understanding of what it will be like to have all of our friends view us as repulsive and to be close to death. We may be there some day and if thing happen in our life as in Job’s life then what are to we to do? The Lord wants us to cry out to Him, and He will pull us out of the pit of depression, despair, hopelessness, drug addiction, or alcoholism and deliver us to a saving secure relationship with Him for our hope and daily rock to lean on.
1st Peter 3 talks about our daily example to our husband, wife or others around us. Our spirit ministers to others louder than our words. The work God has done in us should build strong relationships that will speak to the soul of our associates, family and friends. Husbands should treat wives with respect and wives should lead a life that would draw husbands to the Lord. 1Pe 3:8 “Finally, all of you, live in harmony with one another; be sympathetic, love as brothers, be compassionate and humble. 9 Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing. 10 For, Whoever would love life and see good days must keep his tongue from evil and his lips from deceitful speech.”
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Psalm 81-83; 1 Peter 1
In Psalm 81 the Lord is our strength and sets a decree for us that tells us He removes the burdens from our shoulders and sets free our hands. When we call upon Him out of our distress, He answers us. He does not spare us from the distress because He grow our spiritual strength during times when we struggle for the answer only He can provide. He wants us to rely on His strength, not ours. 13 "If my people would but listen to me, if Israel would follow my ways...16 But you would be fed with the finest of wheat; with honey from the rock I would satisfy you." Many times we miss the blessings the Lord has stored up for us because we do not call out to Him in our distress.
In Psalms 82 God is the only God who is alive and involved in the daily life of His people. It is nice to know we have a God that will reign forever for all generations and they can call to Him a hundred years from now and He will answer.
In Psalm 83 the Lord is the Most High God. 18 "Let them know that you, whose name is the LORD — that you alone are the Most High over all the earth."
In 1st Peter 1 the Lord tells us that we are to praise the Lord who sets us apart, makes us holy and gives us life. 6"In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. 7These have come so that your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may be proved genuine and may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed. 8Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, 9for you are receiving the goal of your faith, the salvation of your souls... 22Now that you have purified yourselves by obeying the truth so that you have sincere love for your brothers, love one another deeply, from the heart. 23For you have been born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable, through the living and enduring word of God." We are to love each other as an act of obedience. When we genuinely do that He gives us a harvest of faith that will not fade away. 24"For, "All men are like grass, and all their glory is like the flowers of the field; the grass withers and the flowers fall, 25but the word of the Lord stands forever." And this is the word that was preached to you.
In Psalms 82 God is the only God who is alive and involved in the daily life of His people. It is nice to know we have a God that will reign forever for all generations and they can call to Him a hundred years from now and He will answer.
In Psalm 83 the Lord is the Most High God. 18 "Let them know that you, whose name is the LORD — that you alone are the Most High over all the earth."
In 1st Peter 1 the Lord tells us that we are to praise the Lord who sets us apart, makes us holy and gives us life. 6"In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. 7These have come so that your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may be proved genuine and may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed. 8Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, 9for you are receiving the goal of your faith, the salvation of your souls... 22Now that you have purified yourselves by obeying the truth so that you have sincere love for your brothers, love one another deeply, from the heart. 23For you have been born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable, through the living and enduring word of God." We are to love each other as an act of obedience. When we genuinely do that He gives us a harvest of faith that will not fade away. 24"For, "All men are like grass, and all their glory is like the flowers of the field; the grass withers and the flowers fall, 25but the word of the Lord stands forever." And this is the word that was preached to you.
Saturday, August 8, 2009
Psalms 74-76; Acts 27:1-26
In Psalm 74 the people of God are experiencing a time when God's discipline has allowed them to go into captivity. They then look back and remember the wondrous things God has done and ask Him to defeat their enemies. 11 "Why do you hold back your hand, your right hand? Take it from the folds of your garment and destroy them!" They understand the power of God and are asking Him to retaliate now. He will do that after they have been through the consequences of their sin and have truly repented. If God rescues us every time we ask without any consequences we get cheated out of the growth involves in the discipline. He loves us too much to allow us to remain spiritual children. This growth is sometimes painful, but it is so worth it.
In psalms 75 the Lord chooses the appointed time to judge uprightly, to exalt people or bring them down. It is God who holds the pillars of the earth firm when it quakes. When our world is rocking if we put trust the Lord He will deliver us.
In Psalms 76 God is great and His name known in the nation. 11 "Make vows to the LORD your God and fulfill them; let all the neighboring lands bring gifts to the One to be feared." 12 He breaks the spirit of rulers; he is feared by the kings of the earth." We know God is great and understanding His awesome power and holiness should bring us in reverent awe with a humble, yet healthy fear of His majesty and power.
In Acts 27 Paul is being transferred to Rome to appeal to Caesar. A few days into their journey the sailing became difficult and while anchored at the port in Fair Havens Paul warned them 10"Men, I can see that our voyage is going to be disastrous and bring great loss to ship and cargo, and to our own lives also." 11But the centurion, instead of listening to what Paul said, followed the advice of the pilot and of the owner of the ship. 12Since the harbor was unsuitable to winter in, the majority decided that we should sail on, hoping to reach Phoenix and winter there. This was a harbor in Crete, facing both southwest and northwest. Do we listen to the majority when the sailing gets rough or do we call on the Lord and listen to Him for direction? God gives direction to those leaders and His children to keep us sailing on His course. Trust Him for guidance and the destination will be reached while walking in His presence and trusting in Him for the right route and the desired outcome along the way.
In psalms 75 the Lord chooses the appointed time to judge uprightly, to exalt people or bring them down. It is God who holds the pillars of the earth firm when it quakes. When our world is rocking if we put trust the Lord He will deliver us.
In Psalms 76 God is great and His name known in the nation. 11 "Make vows to the LORD your God and fulfill them; let all the neighboring lands bring gifts to the One to be feared." 12 He breaks the spirit of rulers; he is feared by the kings of the earth." We know God is great and understanding His awesome power and holiness should bring us in reverent awe with a humble, yet healthy fear of His majesty and power.
In Acts 27 Paul is being transferred to Rome to appeal to Caesar. A few days into their journey the sailing became difficult and while anchored at the port in Fair Havens Paul warned them 10"Men, I can see that our voyage is going to be disastrous and bring great loss to ship and cargo, and to our own lives also." 11But the centurion, instead of listening to what Paul said, followed the advice of the pilot and of the owner of the ship. 12Since the harbor was unsuitable to winter in, the majority decided that we should sail on, hoping to reach Phoenix and winter there. This was a harbor in Crete, facing both southwest and northwest. Do we listen to the majority when the sailing gets rough or do we call on the Lord and listen to Him for direction? God gives direction to those leaders and His children to keep us sailing on His course. Trust Him for guidance and the destination will be reached while walking in His presence and trusting in Him for the right route and the desired outcome along the way.
Friday, August 7, 2009
Psalm 72-73; Acts 26
Psalms 72 asks for God to endow the King with His justice. We can always count on that character in God. "The desert tribes will bow before Him". That at the name of Jesus every knee will bow and confess that Jesus Christ is Lord. He is King of Kings and Lord of Lords and we will all bow at His holy name. 18 "Praise be to the LORD God, the God of Israel, who alone does marvelous deeds.19 Praise be to his glorious name forever; may the whole earth be filled with his glory. Amen and Amen." This is a prayer of David, as we pray scripture God will dwell in our midst.
In Psalms 73 we see how easy it is to get dismayed at those who seem to be doing evil and getting ahead.
16 "When I tried to understand all this, it was oppressive to me
17 till I entered the sanctuary of God; then I understood their final destiny."
When life gets us down and we enter God's sanctuary we get hope, security and strength for what we are facing. He encourages us and gives us understanding as He asks. Understanding our final destiny is key to turning our world right side up.
24 "You guide me with your counsel, and afterward you will take me into glory.
The psalmist says He has made the Lord his refuge and will tell of all His deeds.
25 Whom have I in heaven but you? And earth has nothing I desire besides you.
26 My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever."
In Acts 26 we see Paul testifying to King Agrippa. He gives his testimony.
20"First to those in Damascus, then to those in Jerusalem and in all Judea, and to the Gentiles also, I preached that they should repent and turn to God and prove their repentance by their deeds...27King Agrippa, do you believe the prophets? I know you do." 28Then Agrippa said to Paul, "Do you think that in such a short time you can persuade me to be a Christian?" 29Paul replied, "Short time or long—I pray God that not only you but all who are listening to me today may become what I am, except for these chains." He ends his testimony in an appeal to king Agrippa and Festus and everyone present to become as him and give their life to Christ. We should be prepared to give our testimony of this life in us that transforms hearts and gives life to all who receive Him.
In Psalms 73 we see how easy it is to get dismayed at those who seem to be doing evil and getting ahead.
16 "When I tried to understand all this, it was oppressive to me
17 till I entered the sanctuary of God; then I understood their final destiny."
When life gets us down and we enter God's sanctuary we get hope, security and strength for what we are facing. He encourages us and gives us understanding as He asks. Understanding our final destiny is key to turning our world right side up.
24 "You guide me with your counsel, and afterward you will take me into glory.
The psalmist says He has made the Lord his refuge and will tell of all His deeds.
25 Whom have I in heaven but you? And earth has nothing I desire besides you.
26 My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever."
In Acts 26 we see Paul testifying to King Agrippa. He gives his testimony.
20"First to those in Damascus, then to those in Jerusalem and in all Judea, and to the Gentiles also, I preached that they should repent and turn to God and prove their repentance by their deeds...27King Agrippa, do you believe the prophets? I know you do." 28Then Agrippa said to Paul, "Do you think that in such a short time you can persuade me to be a Christian?" 29Paul replied, "Short time or long—I pray God that not only you but all who are listening to me today may become what I am, except for these chains." He ends his testimony in an appeal to king Agrippa and Festus and everyone present to become as him and give their life to Christ. We should be prepared to give our testimony of this life in us that transforms hearts and gives life to all who receive Him.
Thursday, August 6, 2009
Psalm 70-71; Acts 25
Psalm 70 starts saying: 1 "Hasten, O God, to save me; O LORD, come quickly to help me." The Lord God wants us to turn to Him in times of despair and trouble. Many times we tend to trust in ourselves and our own understanding. He wants us to depend on what He can do instead of what we can do.
In Psalm 71 we see God as our rock. 3 "Be my rock of refuge, to which I can always go; give the command to save me, for you are my rock and my fortress." Our enemies may claim God has forsaken us, but as we rely on Him they will be defeated. 23 "My lips will shout for joy when I sing praise to you— I, whom you have redeemed 24 My tongue will tell of your righteous acts all day long, for those who wanted to harm me have been put to shame and confusion." Are you able to tell others what great things God has done in your life? Not what great things we have done for Him, but what great things HE has done. Many people today are mesmerized by the TV news. The true living God that is deeply involved in the life of His people really is the good news the world is seeking. He is the hope of the world.
In Acts 25 we see another plot the Jews had to kill Paul. They asked Festus to send him to Jerusalem to be tried by them with a secret scheme to kill him along the way. Paul asked to be heard by Caesar. This brings King Agrippa into the picture and Paul will be heard by him. What platform is God giving you to tell the story of the things He is doing in your life? What may appear as a trial may be a blessing to others as they see the Lord at work in your daily life of service to our King.
In Psalm 71 we see God as our rock. 3 "Be my rock of refuge, to which I can always go; give the command to save me, for you are my rock and my fortress." Our enemies may claim God has forsaken us, but as we rely on Him they will be defeated. 23 "My lips will shout for joy when I sing praise to you— I, whom you have redeemed 24 My tongue will tell of your righteous acts all day long, for those who wanted to harm me have been put to shame and confusion." Are you able to tell others what great things God has done in your life? Not what great things we have done for Him, but what great things HE has done. Many people today are mesmerized by the TV news. The true living God that is deeply involved in the life of His people really is the good news the world is seeking. He is the hope of the world.
In Acts 25 we see another plot the Jews had to kill Paul. They asked Festus to send him to Jerusalem to be tried by them with a secret scheme to kill him along the way. Paul asked to be heard by Caesar. This brings King Agrippa into the picture and Paul will be heard by him. What platform is God giving you to tell the story of the things He is doing in your life? What may appear as a trial may be a blessing to others as they see the Lord at work in your daily life of service to our King.
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
Psalms 68 - 69; Acts 24
Dan Holley
Subject: Today's blog
Psalm 68 prompts us to sing praise to the Lord. He is worthy of our praise. He is our deliverer and defender concerning our enemies. In Genesis 12:3 He says it this way: I will bless those who bless you and I will curse him who curse you and in you all the families of the earth will be blessed. This holds true to those called to be His children. Then we see that God is more awesome than His sanctuary (holy places) and it is He who gives His people power and strength. Trust in the Lord cast your cares on Him and He will strengthen and deliver you daily. He knows what you need before you ask.
In chapter 69 we see David fasting, praying and asking for deliverance. He will be our answer when we seek Him no matter what we are facing God is bigger than our present need. He loves us and always provides His children what we need.
In Acts 24 Paul faces his accusers in court. Felix delayed judgment and Paul testified later to him and His wife. He could not bear to continue after Paul spoke of righteousness, self control and the coming judgment. Paul was not afraid to speak as the Lord had prompted. We must seek the Lord on what to say and what He may be saying to us through His servants. It is may be hard to hear but it is so essential for our growth to seek the answer which God is faithful to provide. Whatever you may be facing seek the Lord with a "not my will but yours" heart and see what God will do.
Dan
Dan and Emily Holley
Austin Oaks Baptist Church
Subject: Today's blog
Psalm 68 prompts us to sing praise to the Lord. He is worthy of our praise. He is our deliverer and defender concerning our enemies. In Genesis 12:3 He says it this way: I will bless those who bless you and I will curse him who curse you and in you all the families of the earth will be blessed. This holds true to those called to be His children. Then we see that God is more awesome than His sanctuary (holy places) and it is He who gives His people power and strength. Trust in the Lord cast your cares on Him and He will strengthen and deliver you daily. He knows what you need before you ask.
In chapter 69 we see David fasting, praying and asking for deliverance. He will be our answer when we seek Him no matter what we are facing God is bigger than our present need. He loves us and always provides His children what we need.
In Acts 24 Paul faces his accusers in court. Felix delayed judgment and Paul testified later to him and His wife. He could not bear to continue after Paul spoke of righteousness, self control and the coming judgment. Paul was not afraid to speak as the Lord had prompted. We must seek the Lord on what to say and what He may be saying to us through His servants. It is may be hard to hear but it is so essential for our growth to seek the answer which God is faithful to provide. Whatever you may be facing seek the Lord with a "not my will but yours" heart and see what God will do.
Dan
Dan and Emily Holley
Austin Oaks Baptist Church
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