It’s Time to Pray

by Pastor Carter Conlon

Second Peter chapter 2 beginning at verse 15, “They have forsaken the right way and gone astray, following the way of Balaam the son of Beor, who loved the wages of unrighteousness; but he was rebuked for his iniquity: a dumb donkey speaking with a man’s voice restrained the madness of the prophet.“

You asked yourself the question today, what power do I have to make a difference? The religion of my town is so watered-down, so self-focused, so lukewarm that there’s no life there anymore. It seems the prophets for hire are always coming to town looking for money and filled with empty words. The madness of the prophet was stopped by a donkey when it began to speak. The end result was that the curse of false religion was turned into the blessing of God!

My friend, it’s time to pray

Paying Attention to How We Live

Luke 12:16-21

One day we’ll give an account of ourselves to the Lord (Romans 14:12). We must, then, pay attention to how we live.

The rich man in Luke 16:19-31 made the tragic choice of living for himself without regard for the Lord. He also made two other mistakes.

First, he invested everything for himself and nothing for the life to come. When we are blinded by our own desires and personal satisfaction, it is easy to become lukewarm about spiritual matters. We forget that this life is not all there is. Scripture tells us to store up treasures in heaven, not on earth. Where our treasure is reflects where our heart is (Matthew 6:19-21).

The rich man’s other mistake was to prepare everything for himself and nothing for others. Crumbs falling from his table (v. 21) were the only form of assistance he gave a poor man named Lazarus. The one who had much wealth did not share it with the one who had little. Jesus explained what our priorities should be to love the Lord wholeheartedly and to love our neighbor as ourselves (Luke 10:27).

We see the rich man’s mistakes repeated in another parable. This time a wealthy man builds bigger barns to store crops so he will have plenty for the future. God calls him a fool for such shortsightedness (Luke 12:20).

The Bible repeatedly warns us to pay attention to spiritual matters—the Lord is to have first place in our lives and be the center of our affections. He urges us to store up heavenly treasure by caring for the lost and hurting people around us. On whom is your attention focused?

From Dr. Charles Stanley & www.intouch.org.


Today's Bible Verse...
They preached the good news in that city and won a large number of disciples. Then they returned to Lystra, Iconium and Antioch, strengthening the disciples and encouraging them to remain true to the faith.—Acts 14:21-22

Thoughts on Today's Verse... Do you know a new Christian? Paul and Barnabas remind us that it is difficult becoming a Christian; there are hard times for new Christians! So let's make sure we don't just share the Gospel with them. Let's also stand by them, check on them, strengthen them, and encourage them.

My Prayer... Loving Father, please be with the new Christians in our church. Use me to be a source of encouragement to them and strength for them. May my life always be a positive influence on them and other new Christians as well. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

The Thoughts and Prayer on Today's Verse are written by Phil Ware.

Today's Verse Illustrated...

 

Move Outside the Clique by Bert Legg

 

My Crazy Thought

by Max Lucado

My family consisted of me, two sisters and a brother.  We were siblings because we came from the same family.  I’m sure there have been times when they did not want to call me their brother, but they didn’t have that choice.  Nor do we.  When I see someone calling God Father and Jesus Savior,  I meet a brother or a sister—regardless of the name of their church or denomination.

What would happen—I know this is a crazy thought—but what would happen if all the churches agreed, on a given day, to change their names to simply church? What if reference to any denomination were removed and we were all just Christians?  Then we Christians would not be known for what divides us; instead we would be known for what unites us—our common Father. Is it a crazy idea? Perhaps. But I think God would like it. It was his to begin with.

“Christ accepted you, so you should accept each other, which will bring glory to God” (Romans 15:7).



Today's Bible Verse...
Be exalted, O LORD, in your strength; we will sing and praise your might.—Psalm 21:13

Thoughts on Today's Verse... What is our role in the grand scheme of things? In Psalm 21, the Spirit emphasizes our importance as God's "cheerleaders." We ask God to reveal himself in glory. We urge God to make his strength known to all people. We marvel in amazement at his great deeds. We praise God for all the incredible things he has done for us.

My Prayer... Dear Father in heaven, exalt yourself and your name above all things. I rededicate myself to daily praise and thanksgiving for all that you have done, all that you are doing, and all that you will do in the future. To you, the only true God, the Alpha and Omega, I offer my heartfelt praise and my songs of joy. In the name of the Lord Jesus, I pray. Amen.

The Thoughts and Prayer on Today's Verse are written by Phil Ware.

Today's Verse Illustrated...

Too Soon to Marry by Doug Hall

 

COULD YOU BE ASKING THE WRONG QUESTION?

But Moses said to God, "Who am I, that I should go to Pharaoh, and that I should bring the sons of Israel out of Egypt?"   Exodus 3:11

One of the most dramatic stories in the Bible is the meeting between God and Moses at the burning bush. Moses was an eighty-year-old nobody, tending his father-in-law’s sheep on the backside of nowhere. God told Moses that he wanted him to go to Pharaoh and bring His people out of Egypt.

Moses was stunned. And he asked two key questions.

The first question is the one we so often ask, “Who am I?” The expanded version sounds like this, “I mean there is no way I can do this great thing you are asking, Lord. This is a big assignment, and I am not nearly big enough to pull this off.”

Interestingly, God never really answers Moses’ “who am I” question. The reason why is because it was an irrelevant question. It did not matter who Moses was. All that mattered is that God would be with him. The burning bush was a sight to see, but the amazing thing was not the bush, it was God in the bush. God could have used any old bush to produce the miracle. Who was Moses? Just a bush!  And that was all God needed.

The second question Moses asked was highly relevant: “What is Your name” (who are You)? Now we are getting to the crux of the issue. “Who is God” is what matters in this assignment—and every assignment. God answered Moses’ question this way, “I AM WHO I AM …. Thus you shall say to the sons of Israel, ‘I AM has sent me to you.’”

I AM is kind of a strange name, isn’t it? I AM is an unfinished sentence. I AM … what? I AM the ever-present tense God who is everything you will ever need, Moses. I AM able in any situation, and I will be with you when you face off with Pharaoh. I will deliver Israel through you, because I AM WHO I AM.

OUR BIG PROBLEM

Our big problem in life is that we spend way too much time thinking about ourselves and far too little time thinking about God. We constantly wonder if we are able. Well, wonder no more. We are not able. But He is more than able. We can do anything He calls us to do “through Christ who strengthens [us].”

It’s time you quit focusing on your frailties and limitations and start focusing on Him. Quit telling God why you can’t do what He has called you to do and start saying, “Yes, Lord. Thank you for calling me. I am able because You enable me.”

Love,

Pastor Jeff Schreve,
From His Heart Ministries


Today's Bible Verse...
Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us.

—1 Peter 2:12

 

Thoughts on Today's Verse... How do we win over to the Gospel of Christ those who are hostile toward us? While we need skilled defenders and expositors of biblical truth, the way most of us will win others is by the way we live and by the way we treat them. No matter how much criticism and harsh treatment we may receive, our deeds must remain Christ-like. To do less is to rob others of a chance to see the living Christ in action.

My Prayer... Holy and righteous Father, please forgive me for not being more aware of my influence on others, especially those who do not know Christ. Please fill me with your Spirit and strengthen me so that I can stand up under the criticism and scrutiny that sometimes comes my way. Help my life to impact others so that they may see the truth of what I believe and the hope by which I live. In Jesus' name. Amen.

The Thoughts and Prayer on Today's Verse are written by Phil Ware.

Today's Verse Illustrated...

 

Wife Drags Husband to Church by Steve Phelps

 

Which Parents Are You???

Proverbs 17:21 & 25, “He that begetteth a fool doeth it to his sorrow: and the father of a fool hath no joy.” “A foolish son is a grief to his father, and bitterness to her that bare him.” Since these two statements are true we must determine not to raise fools. Is there anything that a parent can do to make sure that his children do not live foolish lives? The answer is, “Yes.”

Proverbs 22:15 tells us, “Foolishness is bound in the heart of a child; but the rod of correction shall drive it far from him.” God makes it clear in this passage that we do not have to raise fools. In the early 1970’s two college students did a study to find out why so many children from religious homes leave their religious heritage when they grew older. They came up with the following conclusions. There are four types of parents. 

1.      The neglectful parent
They have no discipline and no love.
2.      The permissive parent
These parents had all love and no discipline.
3.      The authoritarian parent
They had no love and all discipline.
4.      The authoritative parent
They had a balance between love and discipline.

If we want to raise children who are not fools, we must have a balance of love and discipline in our life. They must know their limits. They must also know that when we put limitations on them we do it because we love them. Learning to be an authoritative parent will allow us to raise children who are not fools.

Let me give you four DON’TS and then one DO.
1.      Don’t be too severe. The discipline should fit the crime.
2.      Don’t put up with whining and crying. It is socially unacceptable.
3.      Don’t be indulgent. Don’t give into every whim or appetite the child has.
4.      Don’t accept direct defiance. Rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft.

Do practice biblical discipline. Learn to use the rod of correction the way the Word of God teaches. Proper spanking will drive foolishness from the heart of your child.

Your friend,
David Teis

Today's Bible Verse...

The world and its desires pass away, but the man who does the will of God lives forever.—1 John 2:17

Thoughts on Today's Verse... So much of what we pursue is fleeting. Once we acquire it, we have to try to preserve it because we know it will soon be gone. God has promised us that just as he is eternal and will live forever, so also are those who pursue a relationship with him and are committed to do his will. So let's sit down and look at how we spend our time, our money, and our efforts and ask if what we are pursuing is really something that is worth having. Then let's ask one more important question: "Even if it is worth having, is it going to last long enough to make a difference?"

My Prayer... Eternal Father, please give me the courage to be honest about what I am pursuing with my life. I want it to count for your cause. I want to make a difference for good. Some of that desire, I confess, is self-serving. However, dear Father, I truly do want to have a life that impacts others for good and that brings you honor. I don't want to waste my time chasing after things that won't last and don't matter. Please give me the spiritual wisdom to follow your will and find your life rather than chasing the shadow values of my culture. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

The Thoughts and Prayer on Today's Verse are written by Phil Ware.

Today's Verse Illustrated...

Church Attendance Every 10 Years by Nick Hobart

 

Please Receive Him as Myself

from Streams in the Desert by L. B. Cowman

Hitherto have ye asked nothing in my name: ask and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full (John 16:24).

During the Civil War, a man had an only son who enlisted in the armies of the Union. The father was a banker and, although he consented to his son's going, it seemed as if it would break his heart to let him go.

He became deeply interested in the soldier boys, and whenever he saw a uniform, his heart went out as he thought of his own dear boy. He spent his time, neglected his business, gave his money to caring for the soldiers who came home invalid. His friends remonstrated with him, saying he had no right to neglect his business and spend so much thought upon the soldiers, so he fully decided to give it all up.

After he had come to this decision, there stepped into his bank one day a private soldier in a faded, worn uniform, who showed in his face and hands the marks of the hospital. The poor fellow was fumbling in his pocket to get something or other, when the banker saw him and, perceiving his purpose, said to him: "My dear fellow, I cannot do anything for you today. I am extremely busy. You will have to go to your headquarters; the officers there will look after you."


Still the poor convalescent stood, not seeming to fully understand what was said to him. Still he fumbled in his pockets and, by and by, drew out a scrap of dirty paper, on which there were a few lines written with a pencil, and laid this soiled sheet before the banker. On it he found these words:

"Dear Father: "This is one of my comrades who was wounded in the last fight, and has been in the hospital. Please receive him as myself. --Charlie."

In a moment all the resolutions of indifference which this man made, flew away. He took the boy to his palatial home, put him in Charlie's room, gave him Charlie's seat at the table, kept him until food and rest and love had brought him back to health, and then sent him back again to imperil his life for the flag.
–Selected

Today's Bible Verse...

Your statutes stand firm; holiness adorns your house for endless days, O LORD.—Psalm 93:5

Thoughts on Today's Verse...
So many of the material things we pursue are temporary. Their usefulness lasts only a matter of months or at most a few short years. Even our lives, and the lives of those we love, are short. But God's character, his defining quality ("Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty!"), and his demands for our holiness are forever. So as we build our lives, let's build on a secure foundation — the will of God and a commitment to share in his holiness.

My Prayer...
Holy God, I thank you for making me holy and forgiving my sin by your grace. Fill me with your Spirit and bring forth the Spirit's fruit in my life so that it reflects your grace and your character. Give me a hunger to know your will and to seek your truth and an ability to understand and apply it to my life. I want to build my life with you as its center and its goal. In Jesus' precious name I pray. Amen.

The Thoughts and Prayer on Today's Verse are written by Phil Ware.

Today's Verse Illustrated...

Warm Greetings for Visitors Only by Doug Hall

How to Guard Your Heart from Bitterness and Discouragement

Proverbs 18:14-15, “The spirit of a man will sustain his infirmity; but a wounded spirit who can bear? The heart of the prudent getteth knowledge; and the ear of the wise seeketh knowledge.”

Many people in this world are ineffective because they have a bitter heart or a discouraged heart. Dealing with people day after day can cause us to become bitter and discouraged. God gives us six keys in this passage to overcome that bitterness.
  1. Guard your spirit.
Walk with your God. Make sure that you spend time on a daily basis with God.
  2. Confess your sin.
Sin will hurt your spirit. Sin in your life will separate you from God. Sin in the life of those you admire will hurt your spirit. I cannot tell you how many times in our ministry, I have watched people stop serving God because someone they admired did something wrong. Sin in the life of your friends will wound your spirit. Therefore, be careful who you fellowship with.
  3. Busyness and a lack of attention to spiritual matters will wound your spirit.
Don’t be too busy for God. Oftentimes people are promoted by God because of the time they spend with Him. Yet, when they get a position of prominence, they ignore the God that promoted them and wind up failing in their pursuits.
  4. When your spirit is wounded, there is nothing to sustain you in time of trouble.
Therefore, if you have a wounded spirit, confess it to God. Ask Him to show you where your spirit is wounded so that you can get back on the right path.
  5. Seek God in His Word and your spirit will be strong according to verse 15.

6. Listen to the instruction of wise God-fearing men and you will strengthen your spirit.
God established the local church as a place where we can get together to encourage one another to love and good works. Don’t forsake the assembling of yourself together with men and women who love the Word of God.

Your friend,
David Teis

Today's Bible Verse...

He who does what is sinful is of the devil, because the devil has been sinning from the beginning. The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the devil's work. —1 John 3:8

Thoughts on Today's Verse...
Two simple truths: 1) The person who continues to live a life caught up in sin is of the devil. 2) The Son of God came to destroy all that the devil stands for. So, I guess the issue isn't as complex as we sometimes make it, which leads me to a final thought: Who are we going to side with in this heavenly war?

My Prayer...
Almighty and victorious King of the Ages, you are the only rightful ruler of my heart. I pledge my allegiance to you. Please help me as I seek to lay aside my struggles with sin and empower me to live for you in unwavering loyalty. In the name of my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, I pray. Amen.

The Thoughts and Prayer on Today's Verse are written by Phil Ware.

Today's Verse Illustrated...

A Pastor Just Like Me by Erik Johnson

Obedience

by Bayless Conley

To God, obedience is a big deal. And one of the best ways to see just how importantly He regards it is to learn from those who disobeyed.

One of those is King Saul. When he was told by God to make an end of the Amalekites and to destroy all of their property, he did not do it.

Instead of obeying God, he saved the oxen and the sheep, along with some other things, and then claimed he had obeyed God. But when Samuel heard the oxen and the sheep, Saul knew he had been caught. So he changed his story. He said, "Well, these things are just a sacrifice to God."

In response to this act of disobedience, this is what Samuel, the prophet, said. We find it in 1 Samuel 15:22,

So Samuel said: "Has the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed than the fat of rams."

God does not want religious lip service. He wants obedience. Obedience is better than sacrifice. One reason for that is because you cannot make up by sacrifice what you lose through disobedience.

Another reason why obedience is better than sacrifice is because it is preventative. In Saul's day, sacrifices were made to cover sin, but if he had obeyed, there would have been no need for sacrifice. Obedience would have prevented his sin.

So do what God desires. Obey what He commands. It is always better.


Today's Bible Verse...
Woe to those who go to great depths to hide their plans from the LORD, who do their work in darkness and think, "Who sees us? Who will know?"  Isaiah 29:15

Thoughts on Today's Verse...
Aren't we so very silly sometimes! We try to hide what we've done and what we're planning from the Lord. Of course we're only fooling ourselves. At first glance, God's knowing our plans and seeing our actions is threatening. But after a little time to think it through, isn't it nice that God does see everything, including our motives and thoughts? This insures justice will be done and our mess-ups will be evaluated in terms of our intentions, not just our failures! On top of that, it also means that those who plot to do us harm will have to answer to God, and we don't have to worry about "settling the score" or "getting even."

My Prayer...
Forgive me, Father, when I've tried to hide my plans and thoughts from you. Create in me a new and clean heart so that I am unafraid of your knowing anything going on in my heart. By the power of your Spirit, stir my spirit to desire your character and long for your presence in my life. I want to live dedicated to your glory and serving your Kingdom. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

The Thoughts and Prayer on Today's Verse are written by Phil Ware.

Today's Verse Illustrated...

Pastor for All Technology Types by Daniel McGinnis

 






  

The Gift of a Good Wife

Proverbs 18:22-24, “Whoso findeth a wife findeth a good thing, and obtaineth favour of the LORD. The poor useth intreaties; but the rich answereth roughly. A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.”

 

This passage tells us much about how to select a godly wife. Five things in particular stand out.

1. Make sure you marry a good woman.

A good woman loves good things and does good things to other people.

 

2. A woman who is raised with very little will make very few demands.

 

3. Remember a spoiled woman will have many demands and can easily be discontent.

A high maintenance wife can be a drain on your life.

 

4. Make sure your future wife is friendly to others.

The way your wife treats others today is the way she will treat your friends in the future.

 

5. It is best to marry your best friend.

She will stick with you through thick and thin.

Your friend,

David Teis

 

 

Today's Bible Verse...

"Ever since the time of your forefathers you have turned away from my decrees and have not kept them. Return to me, and I will return to you," says the LORD Almighty.

—Malachi 3:7

 

Thoughts on Today's Verse...
In times of horror and disaster, people routinely ask, "Where is God in all of this?" Yet we so often leave God at the periphery of our lives and look for him only when we are desperate and have no other options. When things are going well, we seldom say, "Where is God in all of this? Why, he's right here blessing us! Let's praise him for his goodness!" God pleads with us to turn to him and seek after him, in good times and in bad. Not only will we find him; he will return to us and walk with us.

My Prayer...
O God, please forgive us for seeking our own way. We confess that we have wandered from your ways. Even while the Bible is so readily available to us, we often squander the opportunity to hear you speak from the Word. Even when we have so many opportunities to praise you and pray to you, you sometimes only hear from us when we have gotten ourselves into insurmountable problems. Father, I confess that I have let my relationship with you slip and that I have not pursued your presence in my life as much as I could. Please be with me and all your Church as we seek you and your presence daily in our lives! In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

The Thoughts and Prayer on Today's Verse are written by Phil Ware.

Today's Verse Illustrated...

 

 

 

Visitor, Do You Like Us? 

by Kevin Spear

 

 

 

A Prayer for Unity in Our Nation

By Debbie McDaniel

“I in them and you in me--so that they may be brought to complete unity. Then the world will know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me.” John 17:23

Often in times of greatest need, we may find ourselves giving way to the stress and strain by battling one another, and forgetting who the real enemy is. Harsh words spoken, friendships broken; we choose sides and draw lines. Feelings get hurt. Betrayal runs deep. It gets harder to forgive and keep moving forward. And sometimes we get stuck, right there in the muddy mess of it all.

Yet it’s in those very times of tension and struggle, that we need, more than ever, to come together as one, unified, and strong.

And we can be assured, it’s in those times, that Satan is fighting the hardest. For he knows that’s when we have the greatest potential to make a difference in this world.

He knows that we’re stronger together as we encourage one another on. He’s aware that we’re courageous and brave when we’re covering one another in prayer. He understands that the unity of believers through the power of Jesus Christ, is a force that can’t be reckoned with. For it’s hard to tear apart a cord of three strands, which can’t be easily broken.

That’s why he’s determined to fight harder. And he’s there, in the midst of it all, cheering on the battle. He loves it when we target one another. He laughs at evil, riots, and violence. He gains momentum when we forget that he’s the cause.

Don’t be unaware.

His schemes are cunning and cruel. He’ll twist words and truth, trading them for lies, and stirring up fires.

Let’s say “No more.”

Let’s choose to set aside our differences and look to the greater purpose in this life. To honor Christ as King. We’ll never agree on everything. And that’s never been the goal anyway.

Let’s choose to live out the Truth that says, “Let all that you do be done in love.” 1 Corinthians 16:14

All that you do. All that you say. All that you stand for. Let’s do it with love. For perfect love, which comes from Christ, casts out all fear. And that is what gives us power to move forward, propelled with His strength, surrounded in peace, eyes on the One who gives us breath each day, filled with greater unity in our land.

May God bless us with His peace and unity in our Nation.

Dear God,

We are needy of you. We’re aware, more than ever, of our own weaknesses, and of the struggle with dark forces that try hard to divide us and gain more ground. We say “No more.” We stand our ground. We ask that you would fill us with your Spirit of love and unity among believers all across this nation. We ask that you would help us to set aside our differences and look to the greater cause, the cause of Christ. We ask that you would help us to truly live a life of love. We know that this is only possible through the power of your Spirit, so we ask that you would move across our land in fresh ways. With fresh filling and awareness. Turning your people back to you. Drawing others to come to know you. We thank you that you are always with us, and give us great purpose and hope.

In Jesus’ Name,

Amen.


Today's Bible  Verse...
And having disarmed the powers and authorities, he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross.--- Colossians 2:15

Thoughts on Today's Verse... Crucifixion was so hideous, so inhumane and vile, that the word "crucify" was not considered appropriate in polite speech in Greek culture. Crucifixion was reserved for the scum of society who were considered a threat to the government. Jesus endured this hideous death. But what Satan had intended for the humiliation of God, Jesus turned into the humiliation of Satan and his evil angels. He made a public spectacle of them. He turned their torture stick of shame into an altar of glory. He transformed the gory fury of hell into a sacrifice of forgiveness. He redirected evil's power to kill and made it a place to heal. While we deplore the unspeakable sacrifice and shame that Jesus bore on the cross for us, we also rejoice that the evil one and his hoards of hate are broken. Their apparent victory is turned into their defeat. What was supposed to be God's greatest shame becomes his greatest grace, which ransoms us from Satan's grasp.

My Prayer... No words, holy and righteous Father, can ever express my appreciation for your plan, your sacrifice, and your salvation. No song of praise, no heartfelt poem, no letter of love can ever express the thanks I have, dear Jesus, for your loving and powerful sacrifice. Thank you for saving me from sin, death, and a life without meaning. To you, dear Father, and to you, Lord Jesus, I offer my life as my gift of thanks and praise. Amen.

The Thoughts and Prayer on Today's Verse are written by Phil Ware.

Today's Verse Illustrated...

Coffee Shop Fellowship by Rick Stromoski

 

Sometimes You Just Need to Breathe

by Sharon Jaynes
 

Today’s Truth

Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night. That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither—whatever they do prospers. (Psalm 1:1-3 NIV)

Friend to Friend
It was one of my favorite trees. And it was dying.
We live on a lake, and my dying tree was truly a “tree planted by streams of water.” So how could it be dying? How could branches right in the smack dab middle of the bushy green be turning into kindling? It didn’t make sense.
I called an arborist to come out and take a look. He saw the problem right away.
“Ma’am, see how that tree looks like a telephone pole stuck in the ground? That’s not the way a tree should be planted. You should be able to see some of the roots spreading out from the trunk. Those roots are covered up with dirt, grass, and these pretty perennials you’ve planted at the base. The tree can’t breathe.”
“It can’t breathe?” I asked.
“Yep. You see a tree is a living organism that needs to breathe just like you do. If the roots are smothered, then it can’t. Trees need sunlight, water, carbon dioxide and nutrients from the soil. Those flowers you have planted around it are actually stealing the nutrients. The dirt covering the roots is suffocating it. It has water, but it needs more than that.
“Bottom line, your tree is stressed out.”
Ah, words I understood. “Stressed out.”
So, the arborist cleared away some of the dirt from around the roots to allow the tree to breathe and cut away the dead limbs. Then he dug up the flowers and tossed them aside. I could almost hear the tree take a deep breath as if to say, “Ah, thank you!”
Three months later, it looks like the tree is going to make it after all.
All this thinking about my tree planted by the water made me think about my schedule…my life. And of course, that led me to your schedule…your life.
I like to think of myself as a tree planted by the water similar to the one mentioned in the first psalm. I get up every morning and soak in God’s Word before jumping into my day. That’s my water. My living water.
But it’s not enough to drink in the morning and then smother my day with too many activities, commitments, and deadlines. I need more than water to thrive. I need to be able to breathe.
I can plant “beautiful” activities in my life like those flowers, but they may be sucking the nutrients right out of my soul. Those activities might look nice on my calendar, but they might not be soul nice. I can smother my roots with commitments and pile on the soil so that I look more like a non-living thing stuck in the ground—a telephone pole—rather than a fruit-bearing tree.
So as I begin this fall season with its activities left and right, I need to stop and examine if they are exactly what God wants me to do, or if they are just “pretty flowers ” that are keeping me from being that tree that yields fruit in due season.
As I think about my fall schedule with its commitments and deadlines, I need to ask myself if I am covering up the roots of my heart—smothering it from the very air I need to breathe.
And that’s what I want you to consider today. Let’s do more than survive. Let’s thrive! Clear away what needs to be cleared away. Toss out what needs to be tossed (even if it looks pretty on your schedule). Make room to breathe.

Let’s Pray Lord, I want to be a tree planted by streams of living water that bears fruit in its season. As I move into the fall season, open my eyes to unnecessary activities and commitments, and help me to know when to say “no”. Show me what I need to dig up and toss. Help me to do what I need to do to avoid stressing out my roots and suffocating my soul.
In Jesus’ Name,
Amen.

Now It’s Your Turn
I want you to keep this devotion in mind as you head into fall. Before putting something on your schedule, ask yourself these three questions that Liz Higgs asks herself in her book Only Angels Can Wing It.

1.     Will this activity matter one week from today? One month? One year?
2.     Is there someone who does this task better than I do, to whom I might delegate it?
3.     Does it satisfy a heart need for me or someone I love very much?
4.     What are the ramifications if I don’t do it?
5.     What are the outcomes if I do?

Today's Bible Verse...

Wine is a mocker and beer a brawler; whoever is led astray by them is not wise.—Proverbs 20:1

Thoughts on Today's Verse... Rather than spending millions on ad campaigns filled with bright lights, leggy blondes, fast cars, and handsome young studs like the alcohol industry does, God plainly states the truth: We are unwise to be in bondage to anything that makes us look foolish, that destructively incites our passions, and that open us up to temptation. If your experience with alcohol has led to any of these, please seek the help of a strong Christian friend who can help you find freedom. If you are not in bondage to these, please keep those who have been hurt by alcohol and drug abuse in your prayers and fellowship.

My Prayer... Father, my heart hurts today for every person, and every family, under the grip of Satan because of alcohol and drug abuse. Please bless those who are terrorized by a loved one in addiction's grip. Please give them the strength to seek help and not remain alone and silent. Please awaken their loved one to the truth of his/her destructive lifestyle. Please prepare the people who can help them begin the road to recovery, health, and freedom that you so long to give them. Please use us, your Church, as a place of healing and hope for those whose lives are caught in this tragic trap. In Jesus' name I pray for your mighty help and power. Amen.

The Thoughts and Prayer on Today's Verse are written by Phil Ware.

Today's Verse Illustrated...

 

Welcoming Malcontents by Larry Thomas

 

The Power of a Good Example

by Pastor Greg Laurie

But Lot’s wife looked back as she was following behind him, and she turned into a pillar of salt. (Genesis 19:26 NLT)

Noah and Lot both lived before a cataclysmic judgment. Noah was waiting for the Flood; Lot was waiting for the judgment on Sodom and Gomorrah, where he lived. Lot, however, didn’t reach his family like Noah did. Lot’s problem was that he compromised. He lowered his standards to extend his reach.

One day the angels of the Lord came to Lot and said, loose paraphrase, “You’ve got to get out of here with your family. Judgment is coming down fast.” But when Lot informed his daughters’ fiancés, they laughed in his face.

Lot, his wife, and their daughters basically had to be dragged by the hand out of the city. That’s why Jesus said, “Remember Lot’s wife” (Luke 17:32 NKJV). As she was leaving Sodom, she was warned not to look back, but she did anyway. In the original language, the words that describe her looking back don’t indicate a quick look. Rather, she looked with longing.

Have you ever looked at something with longing? To put it another way, have you ever been at Krispy Kreme when the sign is lit up and the glazed doughnuts are coming down the conveyor belt? That’s how Lot’s wife looked at Sodom and Gomorrah, and she turned into a pillar of salt. 

I find it interesting that Noah spoke and his family moved. But Lot spoke and his family laughed. What kind of an impact are you having on your family? How effective is your word as a parent? As a mother? As a father? World changers draw their families to Christ, but those who are changed by the world drive their families from Christ. We all have moments of inconsistency and even hypocrisy, but our children are watching us. They are looking to us as examples. Be a good one.

Copyright © 2018 by Harvest Ministries. All rights reserved.

Today's Bible Verse...
This is what the LORD Almighty says: "Administer true justice; show mercy and compassion to one another. Do not oppress the widow or the fatherless, the alien or the poor. In your hearts do not think evil of each other."

—Zechariah 7:9-10

Thoughts on Today's Verse...
Do you want a clear, simple, straightforward word from the Lord today? That's what Zechariah gives us. He reminds us that God wants us to be fair, compassionate, caring, without prejudice, and tenderhearted to those in need, and to give each other the benefit of the doubt. In other words, he wants us to treat each other like Christ treated people. Why? Because we can't be right with God and be wrong with people!

My Prayer...
Loving Father, please forgive me for the times I've gotten bogged down with hard-to-understand verses in Scripture and ignored your clear teaching on how to live. Please give me the opportunity this week to live like you have commanded me. In the future, when my heart grows cold or my response to others is not what it should be, please use your Spirit to bring to my remembrance this passage so that I might live it to your glory. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

The Thoughts and Prayer on Today's Verse are written by Phil Ware.

Today's Verse Illustrated...
 

 

Signs of a Church-hopper by Rob Portlock

 

When Life Doesn’t Feel Fair

by KELLYE SCHIFFNER CARVER

“Righteous are you, O LORD, when I complain to you; yet I would plead my case before you. Why does the way of the wicked prosper? Why do all who are treacherous thrive?” Jeremiah 12:1 (ESV)

Why do bad things happen to good people?

When I was in graduate school, my mother battled lymphoma, a type of blood cancer. Arduous chemotherapy caused severe complications and near-death. Her suffering was agonizing to watch, and I wondered why this awful disease had stricken her. How could something so awful happen to someone so good?

When she reached remission, we were thrilled. But only months later, traitorous scans revealed liver cancer. Would the horror never cease?

Maybe you can relate to a devastating diagnosis. Or perhaps a person, rather than circumstances, caused your pain — a dishonest colleague, an unfaithful spouse, a malicious bully or an unreliable friend.

I want to understand the purpose behind suffering. I want to know why offenders sometimes go unpunished — or even thrive. I want things to feel fair! Can you relate?

In the Old Testament, Jeremiah pleaded with God over this: Why does wickedness prosper? He penned these words over 2,500 years ago, and we’re still wondering.

As a prophet, Jeremiah ministered in Judah about 600 years before Christ. Small states like Judah subsisted between ambitious, powerful empires like Egypt, Assyria and Babylon. Jeremiah shifted in and out (mostly out) of favor with kings, even imprisoned. He attempted God’s work, but evil seemed to surround him. God’s people — stubborn, corrupt and selfish — turned away from faith, despite Jeremiah’s calls for repentance. God even threatened to withdraw His favor and His covenant. (Jeremiah 16:13)

Does this sound familiar?

Despite God’s desire to see people turn to Him, many believers and nonbelievers alike don’t choose His path. Whether we experience evil at the hands of others or at the crossroads of difficult circumstances, it doesn’t seem fair. Sometimes it feels like God ignores the issue or even blesses sinful behavior. And maybe, like Jeremiah, the wrongdoing looks to us like an obstacle in our calling.

When I wrestle with injustice, Jeremiah’s first sentence gives me pause: “Righteous are you, O LORD …” (Jeremiah 12:1a). In the original Hebrew language, “righteous” means “just, blameless, innocent,” or to be “in the right.”

Jeremiah doesn’t understand his suffering, yet he affirms God’s righteousness first.

I can definitely work on that. When cancer struck my mom a second time, I was stunned. I wish I could say I immediately went to God, but I was too shocked and too scared.

Jeremiah recognizes God’s character, and trusts this above all. He doesn’t accuse God of wrongdoing. He doesn’t get angry and give God the silent treatment. Instead, when Jeremiah doesn’t understand his circumstances, he admits his struggle and asks the Lord for help. As for me, I was terrified God’s plan would steal my mother from me. I prayed a seemingly impossible prayer, asking for the courage to let her go if that was His plan.

Jeremiah trusts God, even in devastation, and we can follow his example. We worship a fair, loving and merciful God. His ways are not our ways, and we won’t always understand them (Isaiah 55:8), but we can rest in His character and His promises to hear us. The Lord guided my mom through additional treatments and an eventual transplant. To this day, she calls herself a “walking miracle.” However, not everyone sees this result.

God doesn’t immediately remove Jeremiah’s suffering either. In fact, it gets worse before it gets better. But God assures Jeremiah that the wicked will ultimately perish (vv. 7-13), and the invaders will fall (vv. 14-17). And despite the horrific sins of His wayward people, God grants restoration and renewal.

Let’s learn this lesson with Jeremiah: Even in the darkest times, remember and trust God’s character. We can bring Him our discouragement, despair and downfalls. He is a God of justice, even — and sometimes especially — when our circumstances are not what we hoped for.

Lord, I see evil in the world, but I also see You. Help me remember that You are a loving Father weaving all things together for good for those who love You. When I face challenges or injustice, remind me You are my refuge. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

TRUTH FOR TODAY: 
Jeremiah 29:11-13, “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will hear you. You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart.” (ESV)

Jeremiah 17:7, “But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him.” (NIV)


Today's Bible Verse...
I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength, that he considered me faithful, appointing me to his service.—1 Timothy 1:12

Thoughts on Today's Verse... We minister by grace. We are saved and made holy by God's grace given us in Jesus. We are declared holy and blameless before God because of the grace of Jesus. We are given a gift to use in ministry for the Church because of the grace of Jesus. We are given strength from the Holy Spirit to persevere during difficult times because of the grace of God in Jesus. So what ministry we find ourselves capable of performing, what opportunities we have to serve and make a difference in people's lives, and what power we have in fulfilling our ministry are all given to us. It is not something to boast about. The Lord's power is made perfect in weakness as we offer ourselves to him to be used for his glory.

My Prayer... Glorify your name, O God my Eternal Father. Thank you for Jesus who has redeemed me, gifted me, strengthened me, led me, and empowered me to serve. May you be glorified in all that I say and do. In Jesus' name. Amen.
The Thoughts and Prayer on Today's Verse are written by Phil Ware.

Today's Verse Illustrated...

Unwelcoming Church by Doug Hall

 

Why God Speaks

23 Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror 24 and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. 25 But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues in it—not forgetting what they have heard, but doing it—they will be blessed in what they do. James 1:23-25 NIV

God is not one to speak in generalities. When He whispers from the pages of Scripture or confronts through a friend's words, the Father directly addresses issues in His children's lives. With that in mind, let's look at His three goals for communicating with believers—namely, for us to:

1. Comprehend the truth. God wants us to learn His ways and principles, to recognize our own frailty, and to identify the needs of others. He does more than offer this as head knowledge—He makes truth applicable to our lives. For example, the Lord assured Paul that His strength was sufficient to carry the apostle through anything (2 Cor. 12:9). Circumstances taught the apostle that God's Word was true.

2. Conform to the truth. Our lives are shaped by our belief system. What we hold as true influences our thinking. In turn, how we think affects our character, conduct, and conversation. God is determined to mold His children into Christlikeness so that they reflect His gospel to the world.

3. Communicate the truth. Every child of God is called to make disciples (Matt. 28:19). Believers can know the Lord and walk in His light but still fall short of this expectation. We must share the gospel by sharing God's truth with others and explaining how His words played out in our lives.

Notice that each goal builds on the one preceding it. Christians are a light reflecting God's glory to this world. We shine brightly by being attentive to God's voice and following His will. And when someone takes an interest in the source of our light, we are prepared to share the good news of Christ.

From Dr. Charles Stanley & www.intouch.org.

 

 

Today's Bible Verse...

I tell you the truth, anyone who gives you a cup of water in my name because you belong to Christ will certainly not lose his reward.—Mark 9:41 

 

Thoughts on Today's Verse...
This simple and clear passage cuts two ways: First, we are blessed when we bless God's children, even if the blessing is simple. Second, we can rejoice when others do the simplest things to bless us in Jesus' name, because we receive the kindness and grace of others and because God blesses that kindness with his overwhelming grace. Bottom line — let's live to be a blessing! When we do, God is blessed. We are blessed. We bless others. In addition, when others are gracious to us, God has also promised to bless them. God pours his blessings out on all of us. In God's miraculous economy, the more we bless each other, the more blessings there are for everyone!

My Prayer...
Gracious and loving Father, please use me this week to be a blessing to everyone around me. But this week, dear Father, please lead me into the life of someone who desperately needs your grace. Please give me discernment to see them when you bring them across my path. Give me courage to reach out and bless them. Keep them on my heart and help me as I seek to be a long-term blessing to them. In Jesus' name I ask for your help and grace to use this opportunity for your glory. Amen.

The Thoughts and Prayer on Today's Verse are written by Phil Ware.

Today's Verse Illustrated...
 

 

Pastoral Comparison 

by Erik Johnson

 

 

 

Editor's Note:

What started out as a ROUGH DAY,

SOMEHOW ended up an even WORSE DAY...

THEN I REALIZED WHOM I WORKED FOR,

AND satan lost his grip on me once again...

Whistling Hymn for the past hour:

"I NEED THE EVERY HOUR"

1

I need Thee every hour,

Most gracious Lord;

No tender voice like Thine

Can peace afford.

    I need Thee, oh, I need Thee;

    Every hour I need Thee;

    Oh, bless me now, my Savior!

    I come to Thee.

2

I need Thee every hour,

Stay Thou near by;

Temptations lose their power

When Thou art nigh.

3

I need Thee every hour,

In joy or pain;

Come quickly and abide,

Or life is vain.

4

I need Thee every hour,

Teach me Thy will;

And Thy rich promises

In me fulfill.

5

I need Thee every hour,

Most Holy One;

Oh, make me Thine indeed,

Thou blessed Son.

 

HAVE A BLESSED DAY....