Scripture: Psalm 121 Key Verse: 121:1-2
I look up toward the mountains. Where can I find help? My help comes from the LORD, the maker of heaven and earth.
Objective:
Psalm 121 is a praise song written about the power and protection of God.
Application:
Sometimes when we are in a low place surrounded by what feels like giant mountains, we look up and wonder where we may find a break, or some help. This song makes it clear that we can depend on God for the help we need. The last phrase of verse 2 says, "the maker of heaven and earth." The author knows who God is and attributes all the good to Him.
Its important that we depend on God not only in the hard valley times, but also when we are on the peak of the mountain. When everything seems to be going well. If God will see you through the bad times, He will bless you with the good.
Prayer:
God thank you for my wife and family. Thank you for everything that is good in my life. Thank you for turning the bad things into learning situations. Thank you for the protection from the bad stuff. Help us to be a people that understand that you are there in the good and bad times.
Monday, March 31, 2008
Friday, March 28, 2008
The Big Picture
Scripture: Ecclesiastes 3 Key Verse: 3:11-13
It is beautiful how God has done everything at the right time. He has put a sense of eternity in people's minds. Yet, mortals still can't grasp what God is doing from the beginning to the end [of time]. I realize that there's nothing better for them to do than to be cheerful and enjoy what is good in their lives. It is a gift from God to be able to eat and drink and experience the good that comes from every kind of hard work.
Objective:
In Chapter 3 of Ecclesiastes we see That god has set up a divine and eternal order and structure to the world. Everything has its time and place. The writer goes on to tell us that there is injustice where justice should be; wickedness where good should be. Says we are like the animals living and dying and nothing else.
Application:
We have a GPS unit in our car and I like to use it from time to time to get the big picture of where I am going, especially if it is a new place. Once I have been to a place a few times I pretty much have a overall map of the area and how to get there in my head. I may not know the street names or distances but I do know where I am. In fact my wife has tried many times to surprise me by blindfolding me and taking me for a drive. I usually end up ruining the surprise by giving here a play-by-play of where we are with my blindfold on. I like to know the big picture.
The Big Picture of life though is an entirely different story. It is so hard to get my head around. If you would have said 15 years ago I would be working in a church and doing a daily bible blog I would have LOLed. But God had the big picture, and God was able to use my experiences to get me to where I am today.
How much more difficult then is it to grasp the eternity of time big picture. We need to trust in God that it is good. Jesus said, do not worry about tomorrow, and who can add a day to their life by worrying. I think we need to understand that God is in control and pray for those in need, but as the writer says, "there's nothing better for them to do than to be cheerful and enjoy what is good in their lives."
Prayer:
God thank you for my wife and family. Thank you for everything that is good in my life. Thank you for turning the bad things into learning situations. I aks that you help me trust you. I ask that you help us learn to understand that it is okay to not know the big picture. Lord guide us and teach us.
It is beautiful how God has done everything at the right time. He has put a sense of eternity in people's minds. Yet, mortals still can't grasp what God is doing from the beginning to the end [of time]. I realize that there's nothing better for them to do than to be cheerful and enjoy what is good in their lives. It is a gift from God to be able to eat and drink and experience the good that comes from every kind of hard work.
Objective:
In Chapter 3 of Ecclesiastes we see That god has set up a divine and eternal order and structure to the world. Everything has its time and place. The writer goes on to tell us that there is injustice where justice should be; wickedness where good should be. Says we are like the animals living and dying and nothing else.
Application:
We have a GPS unit in our car and I like to use it from time to time to get the big picture of where I am going, especially if it is a new place. Once I have been to a place a few times I pretty much have a overall map of the area and how to get there in my head. I may not know the street names or distances but I do know where I am. In fact my wife has tried many times to surprise me by blindfolding me and taking me for a drive. I usually end up ruining the surprise by giving here a play-by-play of where we are with my blindfold on. I like to know the big picture.
The Big Picture of life though is an entirely different story. It is so hard to get my head around. If you would have said 15 years ago I would be working in a church and doing a daily bible blog I would have LOLed. But God had the big picture, and God was able to use my experiences to get me to where I am today.
How much more difficult then is it to grasp the eternity of time big picture. We need to trust in God that it is good. Jesus said, do not worry about tomorrow, and who can add a day to their life by worrying. I think we need to understand that God is in control and pray for those in need, but as the writer says, "there's nothing better for them to do than to be cheerful and enjoy what is good in their lives."
Prayer:
God thank you for my wife and family. Thank you for everything that is good in my life. Thank you for turning the bad things into learning situations. I aks that you help me trust you. I ask that you help us learn to understand that it is okay to not know the big picture. Lord guide us and teach us.
Thursday, March 27, 2008
Stand out from the crowd
Scripture: Song of Solomon 2 Key Verse: 2:2-3a
Like a lily among thorns, so is my true love among the young women. Like an apple tree among the trees in the forest, so is my beloved among the young men.
Objective:
A love song/poem between Solomon and his lover.
Application:
The back and forth style of this poem is a vision of two young lovers singing about each other. The poem is a great example of the poetic literature of the Bible. The ample use of similes and metaphors are a clear indication that this book is not to be taken literally. However there is still much that can be learned from the words in this book.
What I learn from the selected passage above is that your true love must stand out from the crowd, like a lily among thorns, or a apple tree among pine trees or such. This is the way it should be. The problem is at times especially later into marriage we forget how much our significant other stood out to us. We must remember these times and lean upon them in order to get through the tough times that may come.
Prayer:
God thank you for my wife and family. Please never let me take them for granted. Help me t remember the courtship process and the moments of kid cuteness, in order that I press forward during the difficult times. Help us as christ Followers be examples of good marriage skills, not perfect, but willing to work things out.
Like a lily among thorns, so is my true love among the young women. Like an apple tree among the trees in the forest, so is my beloved among the young men.
Objective:
A love song/poem between Solomon and his lover.
Application:
The back and forth style of this poem is a vision of two young lovers singing about each other. The poem is a great example of the poetic literature of the Bible. The ample use of similes and metaphors are a clear indication that this book is not to be taken literally. However there is still much that can be learned from the words in this book.
What I learn from the selected passage above is that your true love must stand out from the crowd, like a lily among thorns, or a apple tree among pine trees or such. This is the way it should be. The problem is at times especially later into marriage we forget how much our significant other stood out to us. We must remember these times and lean upon them in order to get through the tough times that may come.
Prayer:
God thank you for my wife and family. Please never let me take them for granted. Help me t remember the courtship process and the moments of kid cuteness, in order that I press forward during the difficult times. Help us as christ Followers be examples of good marriage skills, not perfect, but willing to work things out.
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Legacy
Scripture: Proverbs 10 Key Verse: 10:7
The name of a righteous person remains blessed, but the names of wicked people will rot away.
Objective:
This chapter of proverbs is a bunch of one liners that are set up mostly as good vs. bad (actions, people, mindsets)
Application:
The name of a person in my mind is the legacy of the person. When we die we leave a legacy whether we like it or not. There are three types of legacies; Righteous, wicked, and Apathetic. The verse talks about the first two. The Righteous remains blessed, and is remembered for what they have done. The Wicked rot away, and if not forgotten are thought of with much disdain. The Apathetic are quickly forgotten about, because they have had little impact on this world.
Legacies do not have to be world-wide. Change the life of one person and that will create your legacy. Jesus said that those that believe in Him will do greater things than he did. I think He wants us to create a legacy not for us, but for His name. However, there are people out there creating a negative legacy for His name. There needs to be a revolution that teaches the world the true legacy of Jesus.
Prayer:
Jesus thank you for everything you have done. Help me be a legacy for you. Help me show the world who you truly are. Help us become more than apathetic christians that let your name be stomped on in the mud. Let the world see the true Christ Followers.
The name of a righteous person remains blessed, but the names of wicked people will rot away.
Objective:
This chapter of proverbs is a bunch of one liners that are set up mostly as good vs. bad (actions, people, mindsets)
Application:
The name of a person in my mind is the legacy of the person. When we die we leave a legacy whether we like it or not. There are three types of legacies; Righteous, wicked, and Apathetic. The verse talks about the first two. The Righteous remains blessed, and is remembered for what they have done. The Wicked rot away, and if not forgotten are thought of with much disdain. The Apathetic are quickly forgotten about, because they have had little impact on this world.
Legacies do not have to be world-wide. Change the life of one person and that will create your legacy. Jesus said that those that believe in Him will do greater things than he did. I think He wants us to create a legacy not for us, but for His name. However, there are people out there creating a negative legacy for His name. There needs to be a revolution that teaches the world the true legacy of Jesus.
Prayer:
Jesus thank you for everything you have done. Help me be a legacy for you. Help me show the world who you truly are. Help us become more than apathetic christians that let your name be stomped on in the mud. Let the world see the true Christ Followers.
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Kung-Fu Grip
Scripture: Proverbs 4 Key Verse: 4:11-13
I have taught you the way of wisdom. I have guided you along decent paths. When you walk, your stride will not be hampered. Even if you run, you will not stumble. Cling to discipline. Do not relax your grip on it. Keep it because it is your life.
Objective:
This chapter of proverbs is the beginning of the wisdom given from father to son. It is more about the importance of the wisdom and what it can do for us. This leads into several chapters of advice that is relevant even to us today.
Application:
This book is most likely written by Solomon, since most wisdom comes from him in the Old Testament. However he got the wisdom from God. The whole book can be read like God the Father's letter to us. And like a good father or mother discipline is always used to teach us right from wrong. God may discipline us as a parent, but he never does so out of revenge or extreme anger.
I am learning this lesson as a parent. It was one thing being a Youth Pastor and a Resident Advisor trying to discipline youth when they break the rules, but now that I have to do it 24/7 it is hard to do without getting angry or frustrated. I just hope that my kids will understand that the discipline I give them is for their best interest.
Keep your eye on the ball is a common phrase that is echoed in these verses. The verses are reminding us that it is easy to lose your grip on what you have learned and slide back into your old habits and wrongdoings. Cling to the lessons taught always keep them in focus, then you will not stumble. Growing up I had G.I Joe action figures with Kung-fu Grip, these guys had hands that could hold onto weapons and stuff. There hands were always ready to hold on; are yours?
Prayer:
Father please guide me down the right paths. Help me to remember the lessons you have taught me, through life and the Bible. Keep my grip firm upon the wisdom I have learned. Help us avoid being pulled back into our old ways, and not to straqy onto the path of wicked people.
I have taught you the way of wisdom. I have guided you along decent paths. When you walk, your stride will not be hampered. Even if you run, you will not stumble. Cling to discipline. Do not relax your grip on it. Keep it because it is your life.
Objective:
This chapter of proverbs is the beginning of the wisdom given from father to son. It is more about the importance of the wisdom and what it can do for us. This leads into several chapters of advice that is relevant even to us today.
Application:
This book is most likely written by Solomon, since most wisdom comes from him in the Old Testament. However he got the wisdom from God. The whole book can be read like God the Father's letter to us. And like a good father or mother discipline is always used to teach us right from wrong. God may discipline us as a parent, but he never does so out of revenge or extreme anger.
I am learning this lesson as a parent. It was one thing being a Youth Pastor and a Resident Advisor trying to discipline youth when they break the rules, but now that I have to do it 24/7 it is hard to do without getting angry or frustrated. I just hope that my kids will understand that the discipline I give them is for their best interest.
Keep your eye on the ball is a common phrase that is echoed in these verses. The verses are reminding us that it is easy to lose your grip on what you have learned and slide back into your old habits and wrongdoings. Cling to the lessons taught always keep them in focus, then you will not stumble. Growing up I had G.I Joe action figures with Kung-fu Grip, these guys had hands that could hold onto weapons and stuff. There hands were always ready to hold on; are yours?
Prayer:
Father please guide me down the right paths. Help me to remember the lessons you have taught me, through life and the Bible. Keep my grip firm upon the wisdom I have learned. Help us avoid being pulled back into our old ways, and not to straqy onto the path of wicked people.
Monday, March 24, 2008
The Blog Will Return Tomorrow
Sorry, for my delay in posting. With all the Easter Prep and busy-ness of getting Holy week ready, I realized I ended up taking an unplanned hiatus. I will be back tomorrow with a new post.
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Fear The Lord
Scripture: Psalm 103 Key Verse: 103:8-11
The LORD is compassionate, merciful, patient, and always ready to forgive. He will not always accuse us of wrong or be angry [with us] forever. He has not treated us as we deserve for our sins or paid us back for our wrongs. As high as the heavens are above the earth-- that is how vast his mercy is toward those who fear him.
Objective:
A praise psalm. Recounting how wonderful God has been, is and will be.
Application:
"Those who fear him," the whole fear thing has always thrown me for a loop. Why must we fear a Lord that is "compassionate, merciful, patient, and always ready to forgive?" Well I think the problem is in the translation or understanding of what the word means. According to one website: "The word most often translated in the Old Testament as fear is the Hebrew word (transliterated as yirah) which can possibly mean fear, but also means awe, reverence, respect and devotion. A closely related Hebrew word is (transliterated as yare) which can mean fearful, but also means to stand in awe, reverence or honor."
This understanding of the word makes the whole passage understandable. God is merciful if we are respectful to God. God is waiting to forgive us. That statement makes me stand in awe and reverence for the Lord. Even though we continually sin or fall short God is ready to forgive us and not treat us as we deserve to be. That is what love truly means.
Prayer:
Lord you are merciful and just and I stand in awe. You died for our sins, paving the way to a closer relationship with you. Help us remember this and to always remember the wonders that you have done. Help us grow into the people we should be, and thank you for loving us for who we are.
The LORD is compassionate, merciful, patient, and always ready to forgive. He will not always accuse us of wrong or be angry [with us] forever. He has not treated us as we deserve for our sins or paid us back for our wrongs. As high as the heavens are above the earth-- that is how vast his mercy is toward those who fear him.
Objective:
A praise psalm. Recounting how wonderful God has been, is and will be.
Application:
"Those who fear him," the whole fear thing has always thrown me for a loop. Why must we fear a Lord that is "compassionate, merciful, patient, and always ready to forgive?" Well I think the problem is in the translation or understanding of what the word means. According to one website: "The word most often translated in the Old Testament as fear is the Hebrew word (transliterated as yirah) which can possibly mean fear, but also means awe, reverence, respect and devotion. A closely related Hebrew word is (transliterated as yare) which can mean fearful, but also means to stand in awe, reverence or honor."
This understanding of the word makes the whole passage understandable. God is merciful if we are respectful to God. God is waiting to forgive us. That statement makes me stand in awe and reverence for the Lord. Even though we continually sin or fall short God is ready to forgive us and not treat us as we deserve to be. That is what love truly means.
Prayer:
Lord you are merciful and just and I stand in awe. You died for our sins, paving the way to a closer relationship with you. Help us remember this and to always remember the wonders that you have done. Help us grow into the people we should be, and thank you for loving us for who we are.
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
Building a House
Scripture: I Chronicles 17 Key Verse: 17:4-6
"Say to David, my servant, 'This is what the LORD says: You must not build this house for me to live in. I haven't lived in a house from the day I brought Israel out [of Egypt] to this day, but I've gone from tent site to tent site, moving the tent [of meeting] from one location [to another]. In all the places I've moved with all Israel, did I ever ask any of the judges of Israel whom I ordered to be shepherds of my people why they didn't build me a house of cedar?'"
Objective:
1 Chronicles 17 is the story of David wanting to build a house for the Lord and the Lord telling David not to. The Lord then goes on to tell of the one that will build a house for him, and establish the kingdom forever. This leader would be a son of David thus making his family know forever. David praises God for everything.
Application:
The house of the Lord does get built by David's Son Solomon. However, I believe the passage is talking about the kingdom that will be set up by Jesus. The house of God is not a physical place but the hearts of men. This can only happen because Jesus died for our sins. This act of sacrifice allows us to connect with God in a way that only Adam and Eve knew.
Buildings and tents come and go with time. They can be easily destroyed by an enemy, but a solid relationship will stand the test of time. Through the entire bible we see God continually trying to establish this relationship. He finally pays the ultimate price, and allows us to make the decision whether we want the relationship or not. Have or will you invited God into your life? I pray that God will reveal himself to you in new ways.
Prayer:
Lord, build your house in my heart. Live in me. Help us to continually fill our lives with you. The church building is not were you live. We carry you throughout our lives.Reveal yourself to us in a new way that those that haven't decided yet can make a choice.
"Say to David, my servant, 'This is what the LORD says: You must not build this house for me to live in. I haven't lived in a house from the day I brought Israel out [of Egypt] to this day, but I've gone from tent site to tent site, moving the tent [of meeting] from one location [to another]. In all the places I've moved with all Israel, did I ever ask any of the judges of Israel whom I ordered to be shepherds of my people why they didn't build me a house of cedar?'"
Objective:
1 Chronicles 17 is the story of David wanting to build a house for the Lord and the Lord telling David not to. The Lord then goes on to tell of the one that will build a house for him, and establish the kingdom forever. This leader would be a son of David thus making his family know forever. David praises God for everything.
Application:
The house of the Lord does get built by David's Son Solomon. However, I believe the passage is talking about the kingdom that will be set up by Jesus. The house of God is not a physical place but the hearts of men. This can only happen because Jesus died for our sins. This act of sacrifice allows us to connect with God in a way that only Adam and Eve knew.
Buildings and tents come and go with time. They can be easily destroyed by an enemy, but a solid relationship will stand the test of time. Through the entire bible we see God continually trying to establish this relationship. He finally pays the ultimate price, and allows us to make the decision whether we want the relationship or not. Have or will you invited God into your life? I pray that God will reveal himself to you in new ways.
Prayer:
Lord, build your house in my heart. Live in me. Help us to continually fill our lives with you. The church building is not were you live. We carry you throughout our lives.Reveal yourself to us in a new way that those that haven't decided yet can make a choice.
Monday, March 10, 2008
New Bible Post Coming Tomorrow
Sorry I missed a couple of days. I will be back on track tomorrow morning.
Until then enjoy this superhero clip. Thanks SNL. Our church is in the middle of a Heroes series and this is just too funny.
Until then enjoy this superhero clip. Thanks SNL. Our church is in the middle of a Heroes series and this is just too funny.
Thursday, March 06, 2008
Be All That You Can Be
Scripture: I Samuel 20 Key Verse: 20:17
Once again Jonathan swore an oath to David because of his love for David. He loved David as much as [he loved] himself.
Objective:
This is the story of Jonathan being loyal to David. David comes to Jonathan son of King Saul and asks why it is that Saul is trying to kill him. Jonathan knows nothing about the threat, and doesn't believe his father would do such a thing without him knowing about it. David asks jonathan to find out and let him hide until he does. Jonathan goes to dinner the next couple of days and finally Saul freaks out when David is no where to be found. Jonathan sees his dads true colors and helps david escape.
Application:
This is a great story about trust and loyalty. Once Jonathan realized the truth he stuck by David despite being threatened with being disowned and death. Jonathan believed in David and knew that the Lord was with him. He also understood what true love was about, sacrifice. Jesus said, " greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends." The greatest commandment was to love the Lord, your God with all your heart, soul and mind, and to love your neighbor as you loved yourself. Jonathan may not have heard these words spoken by Jesus, but he was living them out.
How often do we put others ahead of ourselves? Is there someone that may need something you have? I need to look around me and help out, then I will be the hero God has made me to be. We can truly only be heroes because Jesus shines through me and you. Loving yourself is important, but loving others is just as important. The army has a saying, "Be all that you can be." The only way to do this is to let God shine through you.
Prayer:
Lord, Shine through us! Be a part of our lives so greatly that people can't help but see you. Lord you are the true hero, help us love the way you loved, and live the way you lived.
Once again Jonathan swore an oath to David because of his love for David. He loved David as much as [he loved] himself.
Objective:
This is the story of Jonathan being loyal to David. David comes to Jonathan son of King Saul and asks why it is that Saul is trying to kill him. Jonathan knows nothing about the threat, and doesn't believe his father would do such a thing without him knowing about it. David asks jonathan to find out and let him hide until he does. Jonathan goes to dinner the next couple of days and finally Saul freaks out when David is no where to be found. Jonathan sees his dads true colors and helps david escape.
Application:
This is a great story about trust and loyalty. Once Jonathan realized the truth he stuck by David despite being threatened with being disowned and death. Jonathan believed in David and knew that the Lord was with him. He also understood what true love was about, sacrifice. Jesus said, " greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends." The greatest commandment was to love the Lord, your God with all your heart, soul and mind, and to love your neighbor as you loved yourself. Jonathan may not have heard these words spoken by Jesus, but he was living them out.
How often do we put others ahead of ourselves? Is there someone that may need something you have? I need to look around me and help out, then I will be the hero God has made me to be. We can truly only be heroes because Jesus shines through me and you. Loving yourself is important, but loving others is just as important. The army has a saying, "Be all that you can be." The only way to do this is to let God shine through you.
Prayer:
Lord, Shine through us! Be a part of our lives so greatly that people can't help but see you. Lord you are the true hero, help us love the way you loved, and live the way you lived.
Wednesday, March 05, 2008
Santa Claus or God
Scripture: Psalm 19 Key Verse: 19:12-14
Who can notice every mistake? Forgive my hidden faults. Keep me from sinning. Do not let anyone gain control over me. Then I will be blameless, and I will be free from any great offense. May the words from my mouth and the thoughts from my heart be acceptable to you, O LORD, my rock and my defender.
Objective:
This is a song of praise. The writer is trying to get the idea across that God has set up the world, and that God is perfect, dependable, correct, radiant, pure and true.
Application:
It is sometimes asked how Go can know everything. Thoughts of Santa Claus pop into peoples heads and think that God must operate the same way, spying on people and watching everything they do. Ready to judge them and give them a lump of coal if they make a mistake or are bad. In actuality, God is outside time and knows every thing we are going to do, not just the stuff we have done. This doesn't negate freewill. It just means Go has read the end of the book.
God has seen the bad things we have done and will do, and has still forgiven us. Nothing is hidden form him. God is forgiving and loving, all we need to do is live in this forgiveness and love. This doesn't mean we can do whatever we want and God will be okay with it. It means that when we make mistakes God understands. Trying to live a blameless life is still the best way to live.
Prayer:
Lord, help us live our lives in a blameless way. Help us fight all temptation. Teach us your ways Lord and mold us into the people you have created us to be. May the words from my mouth and the thoughts from my heart be acceptable to you, O LORD, my rock and my defender.
Who can notice every mistake? Forgive my hidden faults. Keep me from sinning. Do not let anyone gain control over me. Then I will be blameless, and I will be free from any great offense. May the words from my mouth and the thoughts from my heart be acceptable to you, O LORD, my rock and my defender.
Objective:
This is a song of praise. The writer is trying to get the idea across that God has set up the world, and that God is perfect, dependable, correct, radiant, pure and true.
Application:
It is sometimes asked how Go can know everything. Thoughts of Santa Claus pop into peoples heads and think that God must operate the same way, spying on people and watching everything they do. Ready to judge them and give them a lump of coal if they make a mistake or are bad. In actuality, God is outside time and knows every thing we are going to do, not just the stuff we have done. This doesn't negate freewill. It just means Go has read the end of the book.
God has seen the bad things we have done and will do, and has still forgiven us. Nothing is hidden form him. God is forgiving and loving, all we need to do is live in this forgiveness and love. This doesn't mean we can do whatever we want and God will be okay with it. It means that when we make mistakes God understands. Trying to live a blameless life is still the best way to live.
Prayer:
Lord, help us live our lives in a blameless way. Help us fight all temptation. Teach us your ways Lord and mold us into the people you have created us to be. May the words from my mouth and the thoughts from my heart be acceptable to you, O LORD, my rock and my defender.
Tuesday, March 04, 2008
Heaven on Earth
Scripture: 1 Samuel 17 Key Verse: 17:47
Then everyone gathered here will know that the LORD can save without sword or spear, because the LORD determines every battle's outcome. He will hand all of you over to us.
Objective:
This chapter is the story of David vs. Goliath. Goliath was a Philistine Warrior and stood 10 feet tall. He wore giant armor and a had a huge shield. David was an Israelite shepherd boy that delivered food to his brothers in the battle against the Philistines. David knew the Lord would see him through a battle against Goliath, just as he carried him through battles against Lions and Bears. David faced off with Goliath and Goliath came in for the kill. David used his sling to hit Goliath with a stone on the forehead. Goliath fell over. To make sure he was dead David took Goliath's sword and cut of Goliath's head.
Application:
The Lord can save without sword or spear! Sometimes we think the only way through a battle is to fight. be it a battle with and enemy or a battle with a loved one. I have had my fair share of arguments and hissy-fits, and trust me that they don't work. In the end the best way to deal with an issue is to deal with the issue. Jesus said if you are giving you're offering and remember that someone has something against you, put down your offering and fix the problem.
When my wife and I sit down and talk things out we always come to a better understanding of each other and our points-of-view. On the contrary when we fight or hold stuff in all we do is create and air of tension or anger. Neither is a good environment to raise children in, or to live in for that matter.
Our culture though likes to see the fights. It stems back to the days of the gladiators, probably even further. People gathered to watch people fight, to watch the victor kill the loser. They gathered to watch Christians and others get eaten by lions. Today's world is not much better. We have numerous television shows about dysfunctional families. My wife and I were watching My Big Redneck Wedding on CMT, and then ran an ad for new shows coming to CMT. The ad had the tagline of Dysfunction is fun. Watching others fight and argue has become our national pastime.
Prayer:
Father God, Help us find ways of ending conflict without bloodshed or even fighting. I know that there are times when it may be necessary to fight, but Lord be with us on a daily basis when it isn't the thing to do. Help us build a little heaven on earth.
Then everyone gathered here will know that the LORD can save without sword or spear, because the LORD determines every battle's outcome. He will hand all of you over to us.
Objective:
This chapter is the story of David vs. Goliath. Goliath was a Philistine Warrior and stood 10 feet tall. He wore giant armor and a had a huge shield. David was an Israelite shepherd boy that delivered food to his brothers in the battle against the Philistines. David knew the Lord would see him through a battle against Goliath, just as he carried him through battles against Lions and Bears. David faced off with Goliath and Goliath came in for the kill. David used his sling to hit Goliath with a stone on the forehead. Goliath fell over. To make sure he was dead David took Goliath's sword and cut of Goliath's head.
Application:
The Lord can save without sword or spear! Sometimes we think the only way through a battle is to fight. be it a battle with and enemy or a battle with a loved one. I have had my fair share of arguments and hissy-fits, and trust me that they don't work. In the end the best way to deal with an issue is to deal with the issue. Jesus said if you are giving you're offering and remember that someone has something against you, put down your offering and fix the problem.
When my wife and I sit down and talk things out we always come to a better understanding of each other and our points-of-view. On the contrary when we fight or hold stuff in all we do is create and air of tension or anger. Neither is a good environment to raise children in, or to live in for that matter.
Our culture though likes to see the fights. It stems back to the days of the gladiators, probably even further. People gathered to watch people fight, to watch the victor kill the loser. They gathered to watch Christians and others get eaten by lions. Today's world is not much better. We have numerous television shows about dysfunctional families. My wife and I were watching My Big Redneck Wedding on CMT, and then ran an ad for new shows coming to CMT. The ad had the tagline of Dysfunction is fun. Watching others fight and argue has become our national pastime.
Prayer:
Father God, Help us find ways of ending conflict without bloodshed or even fighting. I know that there are times when it may be necessary to fight, but Lord be with us on a daily basis when it isn't the thing to do. Help us build a little heaven on earth.
Monday, March 03, 2008
What.. me worry?
Scripture: Psalm 23 Key Verse: All
The LORD is my shepherd. I am never in need. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside peaceful waters. He renews my soul. He guides me along the paths of righteousness for the sake of his name. Even though I walk through the dark valley of death, because you are with me, I fear no harm. Your rod and your staff give me courage. You prepare a banquet for me while my enemies watch. You anoint my head with oil. My cup overflows. Certainly, goodness and mercy will stay close to me all the days of my life, and I will remain in the LORD's house for days without end.
Objective:
This is a song of praise for the LORD. It talks about the love the LORD has for us and the peace and comfort we can find in God.
Application:
Even with such a powerful song about God I know there are times that I forget that He is with me, and begin to look around a get fearful. My grandmother was a worrier, so I think I come by it genetically. I like to try to figure out every possible outcome for the scenario I am in. The problem is I then always expect the worst. I may not be walking through a dark valley of death, but I do feel like I am. I have to remember to trust God. As the scripture says, "Certainly, goodness and mercy will stay close to me all the days of my life."
So people ask why is there trouble then. Why do I find myself having to wade through the valley of death. Well all I know is it is not God's plan for us to have to go that route. Maybe it is us making mistakes, or perhaps its because we live in a fallen world. What ever the reason, if we remember to ground ourselves in the love and grace of God then we will be okay.
Prayer:
Father God, You are my guide through life. I ask that you help me cling to you. Anoint my head with oil and stay close to me all the days of my life. Renew our souls and help us renew our world.
The LORD is my shepherd. I am never in need. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside peaceful waters. He renews my soul. He guides me along the paths of righteousness for the sake of his name. Even though I walk through the dark valley of death, because you are with me, I fear no harm. Your rod and your staff give me courage. You prepare a banquet for me while my enemies watch. You anoint my head with oil. My cup overflows. Certainly, goodness and mercy will stay close to me all the days of my life, and I will remain in the LORD's house for days without end.
Objective:
This is a song of praise for the LORD. It talks about the love the LORD has for us and the peace and comfort we can find in God.
Application:
Even with such a powerful song about God I know there are times that I forget that He is with me, and begin to look around a get fearful. My grandmother was a worrier, so I think I come by it genetically. I like to try to figure out every possible outcome for the scenario I am in. The problem is I then always expect the worst. I may not be walking through a dark valley of death, but I do feel like I am. I have to remember to trust God. As the scripture says, "Certainly, goodness and mercy will stay close to me all the days of my life."
So people ask why is there trouble then. Why do I find myself having to wade through the valley of death. Well all I know is it is not God's plan for us to have to go that route. Maybe it is us making mistakes, or perhaps its because we live in a fallen world. What ever the reason, if we remember to ground ourselves in the love and grace of God then we will be okay.
Prayer:
Father God, You are my guide through life. I ask that you help me cling to you. Anoint my head with oil and stay close to me all the days of my life. Renew our souls and help us renew our world.
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