1 Timothy 3 - Leadership

In today’s reading the lives and actions of overseers and deacons are discussed; however, I see how it can be applied to all leaders, specifically Christians.

Throughout the chapter you will see that overseers (2) “must be above reproach…” That is, set apart, different and strictly adhering to the gospel of Jesus Christ. They must live their lives as a testament to Jesus and show His greatness to others. That is how you lead, not by barking orders or “do as I say, not as I do”, you must lead by example in everything you do. If you are in charge of leading a group of people, and you need them to perform in a specific manner, then you must SHOW them how they should perform; following Jesus’ example of leading by serving first.

I am reminded of medieval battles, specifically the Battle of Bannockburn, a turning point for Scotland’s independence. Where the English TOLD and forced their troops into battle, but the Scottish were LED by their king, Robert the Bruce. He was the first into battle, he led by example. That type of leadership, by example not order, helped them to conquer insurmountable odds (30+ to one) and win. If you are having trouble as a leader getting your group to follow, then check to see if you are leading or ordering. They are called “followers” for a reason, they follow. What you do is what they will do. If you are back doing nothing, living a live of sin, not caring or growing spiritually, then that is what they will follow.

Now, I must mention this, all followers must realize that our leaders are human, they will make mistakes, and they will sin. We must not place them on a pedestal as “perfect”, there was only one “perfect”, Jesus Christ. However, we must support our leaders, pray for them, follow their holy examples, and pick them up if they falter. Just as you expect a leader to be “above reproach”, we followers must also be supportive and lift our leaders up. If you feel the need to criticize or gossip about how the leader leads, instead step up and lead yourself, I’m sure the leader would welcome the help and you may see that it’s not as easy as you think. It is very easy to criticize and chastise when you have nothing at stake, it’s a whole different situation when you are in the spotlight. Leaders need our support and prayers, period.

Dear Lord, please help us to lead by example, to set ourselves apart from the world, that they may see Your glory through our lives. Help us to support our leaders and pray for them, that Your will be done for Your glory. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

1 Timothy 2

For those wondering and seeking the truth, Paul displays it brilliantly and simply in verses 5 & 6. (5) “For there is one God and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, (6) who gave himself as a ransom for all men—the testimony given in its proper time.”

There you have it, the simple truth. Regardless of what you’ve heard or have believed to this point: 1. there is only one God 2. there is only one way to Him, Jesus Christ 3. Jesus gave sacrificed himself for all of us. You can’t put it any plainer that that.

Notice the verse did not say “one concept” or “many creators”, one God period! Also notice, it did not say “good deeds”, “loving and kind”, “being gentle and good”, it said one way to God, Jesus Christ period! Finally, notice it did not say “good people”, “some men”, or a certain race, it said ALL period! One God, one way, for us ALL. Thank you Jesus!

1 Timothy 1

For all who think they have been too bad in their lives and don’t deserve God’s love, you’re right. You don’t deserve it, none of us do. I thought for many, many years that God wasted love on me, for I am unworthy and undeserving. I still am unworthy, but God shows unconditional love, love that is there regardless of what I do. Now this is not a carte blanche to act the way I want to and abuse God’s love, rather it is a calming hope and peace knowing that no matter what I have done, God still loves me!

Paul said it best in verses 13-17. 13Even though I was once a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent man, I was shown mercy because I acted in ignorance and unbelief. 14The grace of our Lord was poured out on me abundantly, along with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus.
15Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst. 16But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his unlimited patience as an example for those who would believe on him and receive eternal life. 17Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory for ever and ever. Amen.

Paul states he was the worst of sinners, but God still loves him and Jesus died for him. It is through Paul that Jesus can show His infinite goodness and mercy and, especially, because of this that we should glorify God. No matter what you’ve done or who you are, God loves you! If you are waiting to clean your life up before coming to Him, don’t; you can’t clean it enough, no one can. Come to Jesus and allow Him to help you. He already knows everything you’ve done and loves you in spite of it. How glorious is that? Thank you Lord Jesus for your love and mercy!

2 Thessalonians 3

In this chapter, Paul discusses the power of prayer and shows us that it is perfectly fine to request prayer for oneself. He also discusses the dangers of idleness and associating with those who are idle. We are not to treat them as an enemy, but call them out as brothers and sisters to help them change their ways; not judgmental but helpful.

All very wise counsel, but the verse that spoke to me today was Paul’s “greeting”, of how he said this is how you know it is him. (18) “The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all.” How phenomenal is this! A prayer that the grace of Jesus be with us. Jesus is with us all the time, willing to guide and direct us, if we let Him. He loves us enough to suffer and die for our sins so that we may spend an eternity with God, the Father. It was Paul’s desire to have the grace of Jesus upon us at all times. What a thoughtful Christian and leader. So I leave you with this, Paul’s greeting: The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all.

2 Thessalonians 2

Here Paul discusses the “Man of Lawlessness” or the Anti-Christ. In verse 4 he lets us know how to identify this man. “He will oppose and will exalt himself over everything that is called God or is worshiped, so that he sets himself up in God’s temple, proclaiming himself to be God.” This is a very dangerous person. With the world the way it is today, we have billions of people looking for a leader, a savior. Those who don’t recognize Jesus Christ as that savior can easily fall victim to one who will “appear” to be miraculous. Many looking for “signs” of instruction will be taken in by the beast, so it is our responsibility to tell as many of them the truth of Jesus Christ before it’s too late.

For those who wonder, “How, if this person will be so great, can we defeat him?” I have wonderful news: He has already lost! Jesus will be the victor in the last battle, He already won by dying for our sins and giving us hope and a chance at salvation! As Pastor Rusty would say, “that’s shouting ground”! In verse 8, Paul briefly discusses Jesus’ victory, “And then the lawless one will be revealed, whom the Lord Jesus will overthrow with the breath of his mouth and destroy by the splendor of his coming.” “by the breath of his mouth”, simply by being and breathing, Jesus conquers. How powerful is that! Please, don’t be one duped by the devil, Heaven and Hell are real. Regardless of what you have seen or heard on TV, the only way to the Father is through the Son, Jesus Christ. If you don’t know Him, then get to know Him right now.

2 Thessalonians 1

In this chapter, Paul speaks of the second coming of Jesus. Verses 8 and 9 are very profound, (8) “He will punish those who do not know God and do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus”. (9) “They will be punished with everlasting destruction and shut out from the presence of the Lord and from the majesty of his power”. Make no mistake, this day will come! When it does, no amount of kindness, good deeds, simply believing in Heaven, or “points” will save you. As it says in verse 8 if you don’t know God or obey the gospel of Jesus, you will be punished and shut out from God. Woe to those who do not heed the warning and repent. Don’t count on living your life the way you want to then repenting at the end. Not everyone is guaranteed time on their deathbed. If you haven’t accepted Jesus Christ as your savior and started obeying His gospel, then do it now! If you have but have “backslid”, then get right with God now! He wants to be with you and be in every part of your life. Let Him in and let Him bless you. He loves you enough to die for you to keep you from everlasting punishment and give you everlasting life. Don’t delay, He wants to hear from you now.

1 Thessalonians 5 - Be Joyful Always

I love this time of year, a time when people (in general) are a little kinder, more gentle, and forgiving, and joyous. The upbeat Christmas shows are on TV, people believe in miracles, hope surrounds us, and our thoughts turn toward our fellow humans. Giving abounds, to one another and the needy, our hearts go out to those in trouble, and there is more tolerance of one another: Someone needs clothes, food, shelter, the general reply is to give it to them. Someone cuts you off in traffic, “Merry Christmas”. Someone is negative or cranky, the reply comes “don’t be a scrooge”.

However, shoot forward three months and its: Someone needs food, then they need a job. Someone cuts you off in traffic, they better have life insurance, ‘cause I’m gonna kill them. Someone is negative or cranky and we join right in with their mood, misery loves company.

Do you see the change? Why is that? I believe it’s because we stop trying to focus on the good and go back to the negative. We take our focus away from God and let the negativity consume our thoughts and lives. If it can be better around the holidays, then it can be done all year round, as Paul told us to be in verse 16, “Be joyful always”. Not sometimes, or when you feel like it, or when someone is good to you, but “always”.

“But that’s impossible”, you might say. Yes it is humanly impossible to be joyful always, but we are not limited to human possibilities. For God, being joyful always is no problem and if we keep our focus on Him, it will become easier for us. “But you don’t understand, I have (financial, health, relationship, etc.) problems. How can I be joyful?” I do understand and sympathize, but even better God understands and provides us with this, Philippians 4:6-7, (6) “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. (7) And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

When the world attacks to steal our joy, remember to take all things to God in prayer, leave our worries with Him, and fill our lives with His peace. By doing that, joy is a given. Besides, regardless of what happens here on earth, it’s temporary, for one day we will be with our Lord and Savior in Heaven forever! That is the “reason for the season”, Christ Jesus was born, lived, died and rose again, all so that we may be forgiven of our sins and have everlasting life! I can’t think of a better thing to be joyous about.

If you don’t know Jesus as your personal savior, then please act now before it’s too late. Come know the constant joy of not having to fear death and the peace of God, contact me and I’ll show you how. God bless and keep you all and Merry Christmas!

1 Thessalonians 4 - Death is not the End

Verses 13-18 explain how we, as Christians, have a hope beyond hope. Jesus is coming back and we will be with Him forever! That is awesome!

Verse 13 tells us not to grieve like those who have no hope. There is no reason to grieve, Jesus has saved us. The death of a loved one, especially around the holidays, is difficult for us left behind. We miss a lot of things about that person, and long for them to be with us, but if they accepted Christ Jesus as their personal Savior (and you have too), believe Jesus died for our sins and arose again, then there is no reason to grieve, you will see them again and be with them and the Lord forever! Wow, death has no power over us for we are saved by Christ Jesus! Verse 18 says “Therefore encourage each other with these words” and that is what I am trying to do now.

Personally, I would like to stop right here, but God has pressed upon my heart to continue. So you say, “that’s great Rick, we will meet our Christian friends and family again in Heaven and be with them and the Lord forever, but what about our non-Christian family and friends who have died”? John 14:6 says “Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” That is a tough pill to swallow concerning lost family and friends, but there is nothing you can do for them, they will not be there in Heaven with you.

It hurts, I know it does. I have lost several friends and family members who were not saved, I know that I will never see them again, it is very painful in two major ways. First, I miss them and it hurts to know they are gone. Last, I didn’t do everything I could to minister Jesus Christ to them, so they could be saved. The past is past, and the lost loved ones who are gone we can do nothing about BUT we can learn from that. We can still minister to the lost loved ones who are still alive and reach them with the Good News BEFORE it is too late. Pray for them daily and God will show you the way.

Now is a perfect opportunity to do that. During this holiday season you will be seeing people you don’t normally see on a regular basis, make sure they see Jesus Christ through you. Use this time together to minister to them about eternal salvation. You can’t change the past, but you can help secure hope for the future. God bless and keep you and strengthen you on your mission.

1 Thessalonians 3

Paul says in verse (10) “Night and day we pray most earnestly that we may see you again and supply what is lacking in your faith.” To me, several things are happening in this verse.

First, “night and day we pray”, Paul is showing the Thessalonians and us that prayer is an ongoing process, not just a one time event. Paul is taking his needs and wants to God, repeatedly in a continual way, not just once a day, but day and night, he goes to God first.

Next, is how Paul is praying, “most earnestly”. It’s not just an “I hope”, but an earnest prayer with all of his heart. His concerns for the Thessalonians goes well beyond “call me if you need anything”, it is a true, earnest love for his brothers and sisters in Christ. Even if he can’t be there in person, he knows that God can, so he earnestly prays for them.

Then, Paul prays for God allow him to “supply what is lacking in your faith”, which shows two things. First, it continues his concern for their spiritual well being (as mentioned above). Next, it shows that we all need continual renewal of faith. Up to this point, Paul has praised the Thessalonians for their steadfast faith and walk with Christ. He has portrayed them as great servants of Christ and that they have exceeded Paul’s expectations. However, he still realizes that, even though they are doing great, we are all humans and fall short. Therefore, he earnestly prays for God to supply what they need to strengthen their faith.

Wow, what a phenomenal example of a servant of Christ. Someone who continually takes things to God in prayer, earnestly cares and prays for others, and realizes that no matter how great someone is doing, they still need prayers of your support, you can’t forget about them. Why do you think Paul was such a great person? Because he spent this part of his life trying to be like Christ Jesus. When we focus on Jesus’ example and follow as best we can, then God can use us to change people’s lives forever, just as He used Paul. Thank you Lord, You are so good, all the time!

1 Thessalonians 2

Paul speaks throughout this chapter about the persecution they are receiving for spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ, but I love how he responds to it, summed up in verses 4 and 6. (4) “…we are not trying to please men but God…” (6) “We were not looking for praise from men, not from you or anyone else.”

Paul steps forward unashamed to spread the Good News of Jesus to everyone he could, gentiles included. Even when he is persecuted for it, he doesn’t relent. Instead he pushes forward and continually prays for all of the believers of Jesus. He cares not for the opinions or praise from people, but only tried to please God! Therefore, he could rejoice in all circumstances, for he knew he was serving God, so all else didn’t matter. Wow, what an example.

Many times in our lives, we get bogged down in situations that seem out of control. We are burdened by live events and troubles, with no apparent relief in sight. Yet, I am willing to say, none of us receive the troubles that Paul did. Yet he still gladly praised and served the Lord, because he knew that this world is just a pit stop, not a final resting place. He knew that there is hope beyond all measure. He knew that by serving and pleasing God, nothing else mattered, not even what other people were saying and doing to harm him. He knew that God is bigger than all of our problems and situations; that Jesus is the only hope for a lost and dying world and Paul wasn’t willing to let other people’s opinions or his situations change his responsibility to share the word of Jesus Christ. Dear Lord help me to be like Paul and only try to please You.

1 Thessalonians 1

Verse 8 gives one of the greatest compliments that a Christian can receive (8) “The Lord's message rang out from you not only in Macedonia and Achaia—your faith in God has become known everywhere.” Wow, what a statement.

Paul was speaking to the Thessalonians, about what a great job they had done spreading the word of Christ! I look at my own life and wonder what Paul would say about me. If his letter would include verse 8, or if he would berate me for my lack of feverous duty. More importantly, on the day of judgment, will Christ say “well done” or “I don’t know you”. We are all human and all fall short, but as the Thessalonians showed and Paul confirmed, we can do a lot in spreading the word of God to be known everywhere.

Thank you Lord for your mercy and grace. Thank you Jesus for your sacrifice and love. Please forgive me where I fail You and help me to be a good example of You, dear Lord. Where other people will see You in me and my live, for Your glory. Where the Good News will be known EVERYWHERE.

Colossians 4 - Devoted, Watchful and Thankful

Verse 2 says “Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.” What an awesome message to all of us. Devote has many synonyms: dedicate, consecrate, commit. So we should dedicate ourselves to prayer, not just pray when we need something or when we feel like it, but truly devote ourselves to prayer.

We should also be watchful and thankful. Watchful can be taken in several different contexts: watchful of enemies and pitfalls, watchful for opportunities to minister, watchful for the return of the Master, watchful for needs of others, watchful of our actions and attitudes, etc. We must be watchful of all of these things and more.

Thankful! I say again, thankful! We must be thankful in everything for God has truly blessed us all. If you don’t feel that you have a lot to be thankful for, then start counting your blessings. You can read this, so you have sight. You can understand, so you have reason and higher brain functions. You’re breathing, alive and awake. You have motor functions, working the keys and buttons. There is much more, but I know you have these. If you don’t think that’s special, then take one or all of them away and see what you would give to have them back. You would give all of the earthly possessions you have just to get them back, I guarantee it. But, the thing we should be most thankful for is our salvation, purchased for us by Jesus Christ. Because of His sacrifice, we have eternal life. No fear of death or of hell. Hope in a dying world. Now that is something spectacular!

Lord please be with us and help us to remember Your greatness. Help me to devote myself to You in prayer, and to always be watchful and thankful in everything that I do, all for You and Your glory!

Colossians 3 - With all Your Heart

This entire chapter gives us great guidance on what to do as Christians and what not to do, I encourage everyone to read it all, over and over again, to hide in your heart and guide your actions. It speaks of But the specific verse that spoke to me was “(23)Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men,”.

This means everything you do. Whether you want to or not, feel like it or not, believe it makes a difference or not, feel chosen or not, feel it’s important or not, “work at it with all your heart”. Too many times we can get caught up in the redundancy of things, the “hum drum”, the routine, and simply “skate” through on “auto pilot”, not really trying, just trying to get through. Specifically if we feel that the tasks we are doing are not that important. Does it really matter if the bathrooms aren’t “squeaky clean”? So we missed some of the garbage, does it really matter? Does everything in the church kitchen really need to be cleaned up? So what if I didn’t get ALL of the trash out of the parking lot, I got most of it. But this is not what the Bible commands us to do. We must “work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord”.

You see, when we look at the tasks from our eyes, we only see the value to us, not the value to the Lord. By doing things with all our heart, we show our faith and dedication to our Lord God, not to what man believes is acceptable. Applying all our heart to tasks, especially ones that others deem “not important”, really makes a difference. People will see the difference in us and we can use it to glorify the Lord. “Why are you picking up EVERY piece of trash?” The Lord told me to “work at it will all my heart”. Sounds like a great opportunity to minister.
Lord, please help me to remember, no matter what the task, that I should do it with all of my heart as working for You. For I know You can make wonderful things happen in even the seemingly smallest of tasks. By working with all my heart I glorify You and give others the opportunity to see Your greatness.

Colossians 2

Paul says “(2)My purpose is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the mystery of God, namely, Christ, (3) in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.” This is a wonderful statement of how we should live as Christians.

We should be “encouraged in heart”. There are many, many reasons to rejoice and be encouraged as Christians, but I will name just a few. Jesus Christ died for our sins and won us a great victory over death. Because of His sacrifice, we may live eternal; that is a great encouragement in itself! Also, because of Jesus’ sacrifice, we are able to commune directly to God the Father; no longer bound by the old laws, which Paul discusses later in this chapter. Also, we have the help of the Holy Spirit, which know resides within us, guiding and helping, all the time, every day. Hold your head high, be proud to be a child of God, be encouraged that He is watching over you.

We should also be “united in love”, united as Christians helping, supporting one another, growing together, united in Christ Jesus. As Jesus said in Luke 11:17 “Jesus knew their thoughts and said to them: "Any kingdom divided against itself will be ruined, and a house divided against itself will fall.” If we are separated through bickering, in-fighting, jealousy, or anything for that matter, we will fall and fail our Heavenly Father. We must be united serving God’s will for His glory!

Paul wrote his purpose in hope for the people to do these things to experience “the full riches of complete understanding” so we may know God and His will and Son as completely as humanly possible. Why? Because divine understanding, wisdom and knowledge is infinitely superior to our human understanding. So, if you find yourself constantly making the same mistakes (or similar ones), searching for reason or purpose, floundering for the right decisions, then it sounds like you don’t have the knowledge or wisdom to help yourself. Don’t feel bad, I’ve been there many, many times, and still face it now (when I don’t listen to God). But, if you have or are facing these things, wouldn’t turning over the decisions to someone of infinite, divine wisdom make more sense? Absolutely, that’s a “no brainer”. Isn’t it awesome that we have the ability to do that! We can go directly to God in prayer, to seek His guidance and wisdom, which is exactly what I (and Paul) encourage you to do.

I know I’ve been all over the board here today but I just felt it necessary to mention these things. To recap, be encouraged, we have much to be thankful for. Be united, let’s work together for Jesus, instead of tearing each other apart. Seek God’s will, for His wisdom and knowledge is not only better than ours, but because of His love for us, it is also better for us. God bless each and every one of you.

Colossians 1 - Prayer

Throughout this chapter Paul discusses many, many important things: The Supremacy of Christ, His sacrifice for us, our redemption through Jesus, the power of God, God’s love for us, and much more, and I encourage you to read it all. However, there is a specific topic that God placed on my heart to discuss, the necessity of prayer for others.

Paul, throughout Colossians 1, mentions prayer many times. (3) “We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we PRAY for you,”, (9) “For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped PRAYING for you…”, (10) “and we PRAY this in order that you may live a life worthy of the Lord…”. Paul gives us a wonderful example of what we should do as Christians for one another PRAY.

Because of this revelation that God has given me, my devotion today is simply prayers for everyone reading this. I pray that God will touch and bless your life. I pray that He will fill the need that you have right now. I pray that He will touch your life and fill you with the Holy Spirit. I pray that God will bless your finances and household so you will not hunger, thirst, suffer or want for anything. I pray that God will protect and keep you and your family from harm, evil, sickness and disease. I pray that God will heal you and your family if that is what you need. I pray that God will move through you and your life, using you to touch many others so that His glory may be seen. I pray that God will show you the answers you are looking for and light the path you should take. I pray that God will strengthen and empower you to do His will, to show you mercy if you falter, to lift you up if you are weary. I pray above all else that you will know God’s unending love and accept the gift of salvation brought only through the blood of Jesus Christ. If you have not already accepted Jesus as your personal Lord and Savior, I pray that you do it NOW, and don’t wait. I ask all of these things in Jesus’ name, amen!

Philippians 4

Paul knows about pain and suffering. He was repeatedly punished and imprisoned for his faith in Jesus Christ. Was he bitter? Did he worry? No, he praised the Lord instead. To say we can learn a lot from him is a huge understatement; we can learn volumes!

Though we may not be facing problems such as Paul faced, there are still plenty of heartaches and bad situations that we face each and every day: health problems, financial problems, relationship issues, addictions, moral dilemmas, etc. In verses 6 and 7, Paul shares with us how to face these problems and conquer them! (6) “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. (7) And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Jesus Christ.”

WOW! I say again, WOW! What a powerful message! Worry about nothing, but pray about everything, take your fears to God in prayer and petition, with thanksgiving and His peace will come and calm us down as Jesus Christ displaces the worry in our hearts.

God already knows everything about everything; He knows every hair on your head. But by taking our fears and worries to Him, it shows our faith and trust in Him. By truly trusting in the Lord, we relinquish the hold that fear and worry has on us and replace it with the confidence in God and, instead of centering on worry, we center our hearts and minds on Jesus Christ. The worry is gone, the confidence in God is utmost, and we receive His peace.

To do this we take our problems to God, place them at His feet, and LEAVE THEM THERE. Don’t pick up the worry again after you say “Amen”. Know what amen means, “SO BE IT”. Show your confidence and faith in the Lord, that when you ask Him, IT IS DONE, and you will know God’s peace “which transcends all understanding.”

Thank you dear Lord for Your word. I thank You that You love me enough to give me peace that replaces my fears and worries. I thank You Jesus that when I allow You to be the central focus in my life, all other things fade away and I can stand with confidence in my faith that You are in control and I have nothing to fear.

Philippians 3

News flash, we’re not perfect like Jesus, nor can we ever be perfect. Now there are two things we can do with this knowledge. We can, as many do, realize this and give up. Turn to desires of the flesh and denounce our citizenship in Heaven. I have been down this road thinking, “I can never be perfect, so why should I try”. Woe to those who choose this path, for only death and torture wait!

But the other choice, the right path, is to press onward toward the goal, to do the best we possibly can, even if we can’t be perfect. Paul says in verse 12, “Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me.” This says it all. Paul is saying that he doesn’t have it all figured out, he is not perfect, but he is getting better by the day by reaching out for Jesus who has already reached out for him (and us). So you can’t reach perfection, but we can be a lot better than we are, and reap the benefits of it.

For example, I’ll use my weight, so I can’t be 155 lbs. like I was in my youth. Does that mean that I don’t try, if so, I get exactly where I am now, 300 lbs. But what if I try for “perfection” eventhough it is out of my reach. I still get the benefits of better health, longer life, enjoyable activities and less joint pain. So what if the best I can do is 220, it’s not 155 but it’s a whole lot better than 300.

I use this example, not to belittle or sacrilege, but to put in perspective. There are many, many benefits for us and others, that come from our daily walk with Christ Jesus. Where we follow His example to be like Him. No we can’t be perfect like Jesus, but we can definitely be a lot better than what we are, plus we reap the benefits of following God’s will and helping save others from eternal suffering. Reach for the stars, though they are out of reach, you might pluck a juicy apple from a tree for your efforts that you wouldn’t have gotten by not trying.

Philippians 2

Paul shows us how to act as Christians throughout this chapter and how to act toward others. Verse 4 says, “Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interest of others.” Too many times we get caught up in our fast-paced lives and center our focus on ourselves. When we do, we tend to shun and hurt others, stomping over them to get what we want. By doing this, we give the devil a perfect foothold to tear us apart. Instances of hurt feelings, lead to neglect and resentment, where evil festers and destroys what could have been great works for Christ.

As we discussed yesterday in Sunday School, it is our responsibility to lift one another up, to support in times of need, to strengthen our weakened brothers and sisters until they can get back on their feet. If we are focusing only on our own interests, we fail to see the needs of others. As they fall, we all are weakened, and it continues until we all fall, one by one or as a group.

However, if we look out for one another, as intended, then we build a network of help and support where a need of one is filled by many, a network so strong that nothing can knock us down. I am reminded of the great redwood trees, one of earth’s tallest, strongest, oldest living trees, but it has surprisingly, extremely shallow roots, unlike other trees. However, these trees stand firm because the roots of each tree intertwine with the roots of other redwoods. Where each tree is connected to the other by interlocking their roots; which makes it almost impossible to knock them down, which explains why they survive and stand tall for many, many years. If each tree only worked on its own roots, focusing only on its own survival, then it would be centered in one area, susceptible to destruction by storms and erosion. That is how it is with us, by only focusing on ourselves, we all suffer, but by helping each other, we all gain.

Lord, please help me to not be so focused on my interests that I ignore the interests of others. Help me to be like Jesus who humbled Himself as Your servant and served the needs of others for Your glory and saved us all.

Philippians 1

Verse 2 says, “Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.” Wow, what a greeting and blessing. Paul writes this greeting to the saints at Philippi while being punished for his faith in Jesus Christ.

Throughout this chapter, Paul serves as an example of how to conduct yourself with love, peace, hope, faith and obedience to Jesus. He has been punished and chained for furthering the word of Jesus, yet does not complain, doesn’t ask for rescue, doesn’t whine and say “why me”. Instead he speaks encouragement to others and rejoices at being a part of the advancement of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (18). What an example of living for Christ!

Instead of whining about our situations, fussing and fighting, holding grudges, gossiping about our Christian brothers and sisters, we should be like Paul who followed and did his best to live like Christ Jesus. We can encourage and uplift one another, pray for one another, and greet each other with (2), “Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.”

Lord Jesus, please help me to be an encouragement to others, to lift them up in Your name, not to tear them down, but to serve as an example of Your goodness; to let You show through me everyday in every way.

Ephesians 6

Verse 4 states, “Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.” So many times we hear, children obey your parents, in fact, it was mentioned in the first 3 verses of this chapter, but it is also important for parent to know how to treat their children.

As verse 4 says, we as fathers (parents) are not to exasperate our children. Exasperate means several things infuriate, frustrate, annoy, madden. I am very guilty of this very thing. In my parental power, I tend to “lay down the law” without regard for my sons’ feelings or discovering the source of their problems. I am the Dad, what I say goes. While I will say, there are times when that is the case and it will remain so (specifically if it what they would do would be sinful or do them harm); however, there are many other situations where I act out of anger or frustration and exasperate them, which is wrong of me. For that, I truly apologize to them now and to God as well for not being a proper example of the Lord.

Instead of exasperating my children, I could take the extra time to hear their side of the story, to determine their views and feelings on the issues, and be a leader of Christ to show them the proper ways of handling problems/issues, by taking them to the Lord. In doing this, I am training them to seek God and following the will of God by properly instructing my children.

Lord, please forgive me for not following Your Word, for exasperating my children instead of lifting them up to You. Please help me to remember and honor Your will by bringing them up and training them properly in Your instruction.

Ephesians 5

This entire chapter covers what we should and should not do as children of God, in detail. It also covers the power of the light and to be wary of the darkness (8-14) and of the Lord’s will, to avoid drunkenness (18) and how to speak to one another as Christians (19-21). Also there are instructions on how a husband and wife should treat and love one another (22-33) as Christ cares for the church. With so many great messages it is very difficult to pick just one to speak on, though I will try.

Verse 4 says, in reference to how God’s people should act, “Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving.” This verse spoke volumes to me. I believe it to be referencing silliness and foul language/joking/obscenities, but it can also apply to something else as well. For those of you who know me well, I am a big joker and sometimes pick on people in jest. I mean no harm or malice, for I know how it hurts to be picked on “for real”, I do it all in fun and the people I speak to know I am only kidding. However, as this verse brought to my attention, the “foolish talk and coarse joking” can go too far and are “out of place” for God’s people.

If I constantly joke and kid with people, especially about the same thing, it may give them a complex to believe they are inferior in that aspect. At that point, intended or not, I am tearing them down instead of building them up. Also, if anyone else is watching, I am being a bad witness for Christ, joking or not, the person still sees one of “God’s people” acting in this fashion. Instead, they should see me being thankful and praising God. I should be the kind of witness that shows the best of Christ, not the worst of humanity. If I have ever brought harm to any of you in any way through my actions and tongue, please forgive me, for it was not intentional, but I know it still can hurt. A bullet fired by accident can still harm the same as one fired on purpose.

Please Lord forgive me for my transgressions against others by my joking. Please forgive me for being an improper witness for You. Help me to curb my tongue and say things pleasing to You, oh Lord, words that uplift and encourage Your people, and not harmful things that tear them down, intended or unintentional alike. I thank you, Lord, for Your word and message to me today and praise Your Holy Name.

Ephesians 4

Throughout this chapter, Paul speaks of the unity of the body of Christ and, as children of light, how we should act and grow. He specifically states (31) “Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. (32) Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” To grow and mature in Christ, this is exactly what we have to do, but actions easily forgotten if we don’t daily seek God’s will.

As Christians we would definitely know it’s wrong to kill another person, but unfortunately, we sometimes have no problem holding grudges against one another, bitterness to our neighbors, anger towards others. These are just as bad and allow the devil a foothold in our life. As Paul states, to achieve unity in the body of Christ, we must get rid of these things and forgive, as we have been forgiven.

It is, unfortunately, easy to forget our forgiveness as we hold grudges against others. The feeling of hatred and lashing out in revenge against those who have done us wrong. We realize our mistakes and ask God to forgive us, but we don’t provide the same leeway with others who wrong us. As Paul states, this will not do! We must be compassionate and forgive one another. God forgave us of all sins through Jesus Christ. We have no right to condemn others and ask for forgiveness ourselves! Remember this the next time you want to condemn someone for wronging you.

Lord, thank you for your Word and mercy. Thank you for sending Jesus to pay the price for my sins. Thank you for forgiving me of my sins and transgressions. Please, dear God, help me to get rid of any anger and malice I have in my life and help me to forgive others and show compassion toward them, just as you have shown to me through Jesus Christ.

Ephesians 3

Verse 6 expands on what I spoke about yesterday, it says, “This mystery is that through the gospel the Gentiles are heirs together with Israel, members together of one body, and sharers together in the promise in Christ Jesus.” Because of Jesus Christ, we are included as heirs to God’s kingdom! Wow, what a message! To think that, if it wasn’t for Jesus, we would not even be able to be covered under the old laws and covenants, much less the new. That is, without Jesus, there was no hope for the world outside Israel.

But now, through Jesus Christ, everyone has hope. He died for all of us, so we may be saved! Verse 12 “In him (Jesus) and through faith in him (Jesus) we may approach God with freedom and confidence.” Because of Jesus’ sacrifice and our faith in Jesus, everyone (Jew & Gentile alike) can approach the Father “with freedom and confidence”. No longer is anyone bound to a once a year atonement, to go through a mediator such as a high priest to speak with God, now, because of Jesus Christ, we can speak directly to God!

Thank you God for providing me a way to salvation, thank you for sacrificing Your Son Jesus that I may be saved from eternal death and that I may converse directly with You. I thank you sweet Jesus for loving me enough to stay on the cross and die for my sins, that I may be forgiven and allowed into the glorious kingdom of Heaven. I am not worthy of Your love, but I am thankful that You, dear Jesus, found me worthy enough to sacrifice yourself for me. May I spread your message to those who need it and bring you glory, dear Jesus, through my daily walk with you.

Ephesians 2

Several of the verses in this chapter spoke to me: 4-5 “But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions – it is by grace you have been saved”. Wow, earlier in the chapter, it spoke of how our transgressions and sins made us unable to commune with God. We were dead and doomed because of those transgressions, but God loves us so much and is infinitely merciful that he gave us a way, the blood of Jesus Christ!

Also, I have to point out verses 11 & 12 (not quoted), which speak of how us Gentiles (non-Jewish), were separate from the covenants and promises of God. They were made with and applied to only the children of Israel, His chosen people. But praise God it didn’t stay that way, or we would have been lost. Verses 18-20 tell us the great news, “(18) For through him (Jesus Christ) we both have access to the Father by one Spirit. (19) Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and aliens, but fellow citizens with God’s people and members of God’s household, (20) built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone.”

Thanks to God’s love and mercy and Jesus’ sacrifice, we are included as God’s people! We have been saved and are allowed to be a part of the Father’s household, through Jesus Christ the Son.

Thank you God for loving me enough and showing mercy upon me. Thank you for giving me a way to be with You, to come to You, and to dwell in Your house forever. Thank you Jesus for loving me enough to die for me, to pay the price necessary for my sins that I may not be left behind and lost, but be saved!

Ephesians 1

Verse 7 states, "in him we have redemption through his (Jesus Christ's) blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace". It was God's grace and love for us that compelled Him to give us Jesus Christ (John 3:16). It is thru Jesus' sacrifice and by His blood that He freely shed that we are forgiven of our sins and redeemed! No other way can save us! Thank you Jesus that you love me enough to die for me! Thank you God that you love me enough to send Your only Son to die in my place and that You would allow Jesus' blood to redeem me! I am not nor ever will be worthy enough, but I am forever thankful, and that (sadly) is not enough either (in my eyes). I could never pay enough for what was freely (without reservation) given by Jesus.

Galatians 6

Verse 1 says "Brothers, if someone is caught in a sin, you who are spiritual should restore him gently. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted."

This one verse gives us three very good commands to be heeded. First, it is our responsibility to help one another when we are caught in a sin, not sit idle in the background. But how do we do it?

That's the 2nd thing, restore him GENTLY. Not berate, not condemn, but gently restore him to the right path. Which leads to the last thing.

Be careful that you yourself are not tempted to sin. Especially if the sin is one of your known weaknesses, don't rush carelessly, headlong into trouble. Seek help, lest you both be lost.

Lord Jesus, thank You for Your word, please help me to gently help my brothers and sisters without being tempted myself. Also please help me to accept good correction from those doing Your will. Amen.

Galatians 5

Verses 19 thru 21 show us the acts of the sinful nature but verses 22 thru 23 show us the fruit of the spirit. Verse 16 tells us to live by the Spirit. How do we know we are on the right track? Simply put, u will no longer display acts of sinful nature and will put forth fruits of the Spirit. So examine yourself, if u display jealousy, rage, envy, etc. Instead of kindness, gentleness, and self control, then its time for a check up and face time with Jesus, for only thru Him are we saved.

Galatians 4

Verse 7 says, "so you are no longer a slave, but a son, and since you are a son, God has made you also an heir." wow, freedom thru Jesus Christ! That's shouting ground. We were once slaves, but because of Christ, we are now God's children, but not only children, heirs to His kingdom! Thank you Lord for your mercy, grace, and salvation. I'm not worthy, but praise You.

Sorry everyone for not posting my daily reading, I've been out of town without internet access for a few days at a Youth Sponsor's retreat in Mountain View AR. It was phenominal! Great fellowship, great scenery, great activities, but most of all great Word and devotions.

I thank all who were a part of making this weekend possible: Pastor Johnny for putting it all together, the Church and other pastors for allowing us to go and for footing the bill on the extra cabin, the sponsor's who went and put up with me, but especially God for giving us a safe trip, wonderful weather, and a special time for us sponsors to fellowship and grow closer to one another.

Galatians 2

Paul speaks in verses 15, 16 and 21 to let us know that it is not our birth, following laws, etc that save us, but only Jesus Christ. Many times people condemn others because they are not born of the right bloodline, race, gender, country, etc. or because they don’t volunteer for the right church functions, attend the right classes, join the committees, serve the right ministries; but as Paul states in verse 21 “…for if righteousness could be gained through the law, Christ died for nothing!”

These “good deeds” or how holy your parents were will not save you, only Jesus Christ can! I’m not saying, and neither is Paul, that we should not strive for good deeds and help to heal the world; just simply, don’t rely on those for salvation. When you begin to think that God loves you more than others because you do more things for Him, then you are in a sad, dangerous state. Give, work, volunteer, teach out of the love for Jesus and with a happy heart, not to “work for salvation”, but out of gratitude for salvation, achieved through Christ Jesus.

Thank you, Jesus for dying on the cross for my sins, thank you for your salvation obtainable only through You. Please help me to remember that you require us to love one another, help and further Your Great Commission, but that deeds alone do not save me and they don’t make me “more Holy”, they show that I am a servant of the One and Only God!

Galatians 1

Verses 23 & 24 state, “23They only heard the report: ‘The man who formerly persecuted us is now preaching the faith he once tried to destroy.’ 24And they praised God because of me.

Paul was living proof of two remarkable things. God can change you and use anyone for His will. Paul was a man who persecuted Christians, destroying them for their faith. Yet God touched him, changed him into a great leader for Christ and Christianity. The past transgressions of Paul no longer mattered; it was what he was doing for Christ that counted. Like Paul, we all have done things that we regret; things that we are ashamed of, but God is willing to forgive those sins, to wipe our slate clean with the blood of Jesus, and use us for His purpose. Isn’t God’s mercy and forgiveness great!

Also, as verse 24 shows, Paul gave us an example of how to focus on God. The people praised God for the change in Paul. Paul did not try to take the glory for the change. He didn’t say “look what I’ve become”, he gave the glory to God, as it should be. A wonderful lesson that we all can learn from.

Dear God, thank you for your mercy and forgiveness. Sweet Jesus, thank you for dying on the cross for my sins, that I may be forgiven and cleansed by Your blood. Please, Lord, help me overcome my past, to be usable by You; that people see the change in me and praise You for it.