By Kathy Lay
This Week’s Verse: Revelation 21:6, “And he also said, ‘It is finished! I am the Alpha and the Omega—the Beginning and the End…’”(NLT).
Devotion:
Are you one of those who likes to take a peek—just a little one—at the end of a book before you read it? Or maybe you’ve recorded or DVR’d the big game and didn’t mind “accidentally” seeing the score at the end before you watch it? Sometimes the stress and drama of conflict in a book, movie, or game is too much and we just want to know how it turns out so we can relax and enjoy watching how it unfolds.
If that concept is sometimes true for entertainment, imagine how much more true it is for real life.
When you’re stuck in a desperate situation and see no possible way out, you can find your confidence in the fact that it will all work out in the end if you place your faith firmly in the One who can (and wants to!) work it out.
Is the worry of debt stealing your hope for a future? Praise God as your provider with faithful tithing and wait for the floodgates to open. (Malachi 3:10)
Does addiction swallow you so oppressively in blackness that even a mere pinprick of light seems impossible? God calls you out of darkness and into His wonderful light. (1 Peter 2:9)
Is the health of you or a loved one so compromised that restoration seems completely out of reach? Your Jesus was wounded to heal. (1 Peter 2:24).
When the drama of reality begins to surround and oppress us to the point of spiritual claustrophobia, it is comforting to peek at the end of the book we base our lives on and to know the end—Jesus. He was there in the beginning, He’s here in the midst, and He will be there in the end, triumphant.
Tying up our loose ends.
Answering the unanswered.
And trumping evil in the final move to end all moves.
Jesus, when I get so caught up in my day-to-day problems, help me find strength and joy in knowing you have the final victory in everything. It may not be my way or in my time, but you work ALL things for the good of those who love you. And I love you, Lord Jesus, in Your Name.
Application: Name a battle you face right now in prayer to God and claim His victory over it, recognizing Him as Alpha and Omega.
Power Verses:
John 19:30, “When Jesus had tasted it, he said, ‘It is finished!’ then he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.”(NLT). (emphasis mine)
Revelation 22:5, “And there will be no night there—no need for lamps or sun—for the Lord God will shine on them. And they will reign forever and ever.”(NLT)
Showing posts with label Kathy. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Kathy. Show all posts
Friday, October 14, 2011
Friday, August 12, 2011
Infinite Word, Personal Savior
by Kathy Lay
This Week’s Verse: John 1:1-4, “In the beginning the Word already existed. He was with God, and he was God. He was in the beginning with God. He created everything there is. Nothing exists that he didn’t make. Life itself was in him, and this life gives light to everyone.” (NLT)
Make no mistake—there is no greater authority than Jesus Christ, the Word, who existed with God before He created a single thing. When the apostle John established this “bigger than we can imagine” aspect of our Lord at the beginning of his gospel, he was leading up to the ultimate irony: that so many who were eagerly awaiting their Savior did not accept him when he came. The Word made flesh was even rejected by many of His own people.
On a much smaller scale, that’s like saying, “Tom, I’ll pass on the Mercedes so that I can see what’s behind door number two.” And behind door number two is a toaster.
It’s like brushing off a child’s sweet curiosity with an abrupt “Um hmm” because you’re busy checking email.
It’s like missing the majestic splendor of a vivid winter sunset because the guy in the car in front of yours isn’t driving fast enough.
It’s about the sting of missed opportunity, missed blessing. We don’t want to miss a thing, do we? There’s never been anyone like Jesus and there never will be again. God sent His Son to earth once for all time and for every sin.
All you have to do is accept Him. Accept Him as your Savior, yes. But far beyond that, accept Him into every minute of your life—submitting each one to His awesome, eternal authority—as His true child.
Lord, I confess that I often overlook your infinite awe-inspiring “big-ness”—maybe in part because it’s difficult for me to fully grasp. Instill in us a deeper sense of wonder as we discover new aspects of your divine nature in our daily, sometimes ho-hum lives. We don’t want to miss a single opportunity that you have for us. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Application: Read John 1:1-14 and try to wrap your mind around the infinite depth and wonder of The Word made flesh. He’s so much more than we often allow Him to be. Is there anything He doesn’t see? Is there anything that He can’t handle?
Power Verses:
John 1: 14, “So the Word became human and lived here on earth among us. He was full of unfailing love and faithfulness.” (NLT)
Mark 6:4-5, “Jesus told them, ‘A prophet has little honor in his hometown, among his relatives, on the streets he played in as a child.’ Jesus wasn't able to do much of anything there—he laid hands on a few sick people and healed them, that's all. He couldn't get over their stubbornness. He left and made a circuit of the other villages, teaching.” (MSG)
This Week’s Verse: John 1:1-4, “In the beginning the Word already existed. He was with God, and he was God. He was in the beginning with God. He created everything there is. Nothing exists that he didn’t make. Life itself was in him, and this life gives light to everyone.” (NLT)
Make no mistake—there is no greater authority than Jesus Christ, the Word, who existed with God before He created a single thing. When the apostle John established this “bigger than we can imagine” aspect of our Lord at the beginning of his gospel, he was leading up to the ultimate irony: that so many who were eagerly awaiting their Savior did not accept him when he came. The Word made flesh was even rejected by many of His own people.
On a much smaller scale, that’s like saying, “Tom, I’ll pass on the Mercedes so that I can see what’s behind door number two.” And behind door number two is a toaster.
It’s like brushing off a child’s sweet curiosity with an abrupt “Um hmm” because you’re busy checking email.
It’s like missing the majestic splendor of a vivid winter sunset because the guy in the car in front of yours isn’t driving fast enough.
It’s about the sting of missed opportunity, missed blessing. We don’t want to miss a thing, do we? There’s never been anyone like Jesus and there never will be again. God sent His Son to earth once for all time and for every sin.
All you have to do is accept Him. Accept Him as your Savior, yes. But far beyond that, accept Him into every minute of your life—submitting each one to His awesome, eternal authority—as His true child.
Lord, I confess that I often overlook your infinite awe-inspiring “big-ness”—maybe in part because it’s difficult for me to fully grasp. Instill in us a deeper sense of wonder as we discover new aspects of your divine nature in our daily, sometimes ho-hum lives. We don’t want to miss a single opportunity that you have for us. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Application: Read John 1:1-14 and try to wrap your mind around the infinite depth and wonder of The Word made flesh. He’s so much more than we often allow Him to be. Is there anything He doesn’t see? Is there anything that He can’t handle?
Power Verses:
John 1: 14, “So the Word became human and lived here on earth among us. He was full of unfailing love and faithfulness.” (NLT)
Mark 6:4-5, “Jesus told them, ‘A prophet has little honor in his hometown, among his relatives, on the streets he played in as a child.’ Jesus wasn't able to do much of anything there—he laid hands on a few sick people and healed them, that's all. He couldn't get over their stubbornness. He left and made a circuit of the other villages, teaching.” (MSG)
Sunday, June 5, 2011
Precious Prayers
by Kathy Lay
This Week's Verse: Revelation 5:8, "And when he had taken it, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb. Each one had a harp and they were holding golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints."(NIV, emphasis mine)
Devotion
I was reading in Revelation 4 about the infinite praise taking place in heaven. It blew me away on several levels that this praise was, is, and is to come. It's going on right now. When we offer our own praises, we're simply joining a chorus already in progress around the throne of God.
And then something else struck me. Each of the 24 elders sitting around the throne is holding a golden bowl of incense. What's the incense? Our prayers! A scent pleasing to the Lord!
If you've ever felt "disconnected" in your prayer life, there might be an issue God wants you to address. Maybe you have some unrepented sin. Maybe you need to humble yourself. Maybe you just flat out aren't praying the things God would have you pray. But if you've given everything to the Lord in repentance and humility and are praying His will and still wonder if it's making a difference, know this: Your prayers are precious in heaven.
Consider the following scene: Up to this point in Revelation we see the beings, the creatures, the surroundings in heaven and there is quite a commotion. The praises are constantly being sung, the elders are falling prostrate before the throne, and the scroll is being revealed. And then suddenly, it all stops!
"When the Lamb broke the seventh seal on the scroll, there was silence throughout heaven for about half an hour. I saw the seven angels who stand before God, and they were given seven trumpets. Then another angel with a gold incense burner came and stood at the altar. And a great amount of incense was given to him to mix with the prayers of God’s people as an offering on the gold altar before the throne. The smoke of the incense, mixed with the prayers of God’s holy people, ascended up to God from the altar where the angel had poured them out" (Rev. 8:1-4, NLT).
The trumpets were present, but silent. The heavenly hosts were watching in anticipation, but uncharacterically quiet. I don't know if it's possible to hear footsteps in heaven (you know, with the clouds for a floor and all!) but I imagine the angel carrying the incense burner echoing them as he makes his way to the alter. All of heaven stops and holds its breath in anticiption.
The continual praise of the Lord stops for one thing--the prayers of the righteous. That'show important your prayers are to God.
God, in this season of celebrating how precious You are to us, thank you for the reminder of how precious we are to You. Thank You for holding our communication with You in such high regard that You quiet all of heaven for it to be offered up to You.
Application:
Read Revelation 4, 7, & 8:1-5 from a few different translations and really soak in the vivid scene. Notice that John writes about his vision in past tense (because he's telling about a vision he had seen) but presents some elements in the present tense to convey that these events are occuring in the present. Praise and thank God as you visualize that at that very minute, heaven's stopping to hear your heartfelt prayer offering.
Power Verses:
2 Chronicles 6:39, "then from heaven, your dwelling place, hear their prayer and their pleas, and uphold their cause. And forgive your people, who have sinned against you."(NIV)
Daniel 10:12, "Then he said, 'Don’t be afraid, Daniel. Since the first day you began to pray for understanding and to humble yourself before your God, your request has been heard in heaven. I have come in answer to your prayer'."(NLT)
This Week's Verse: Revelation 5:8, "And when he had taken it, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb. Each one had a harp and they were holding golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints."(NIV, emphasis mine)
Devotion
I was reading in Revelation 4 about the infinite praise taking place in heaven. It blew me away on several levels that this praise was, is, and is to come. It's going on right now. When we offer our own praises, we're simply joining a chorus already in progress around the throne of God.
And then something else struck me. Each of the 24 elders sitting around the throne is holding a golden bowl of incense. What's the incense? Our prayers! A scent pleasing to the Lord!
If you've ever felt "disconnected" in your prayer life, there might be an issue God wants you to address. Maybe you have some unrepented sin. Maybe you need to humble yourself. Maybe you just flat out aren't praying the things God would have you pray. But if you've given everything to the Lord in repentance and humility and are praying His will and still wonder if it's making a difference, know this: Your prayers are precious in heaven.
Consider the following scene: Up to this point in Revelation we see the beings, the creatures, the surroundings in heaven and there is quite a commotion. The praises are constantly being sung, the elders are falling prostrate before the throne, and the scroll is being revealed. And then suddenly, it all stops!
"When the Lamb broke the seventh seal on the scroll, there was silence throughout heaven for about half an hour. I saw the seven angels who stand before God, and they were given seven trumpets. Then another angel with a gold incense burner came and stood at the altar. And a great amount of incense was given to him to mix with the prayers of God’s people as an offering on the gold altar before the throne. The smoke of the incense, mixed with the prayers of God’s holy people, ascended up to God from the altar where the angel had poured them out" (Rev. 8:1-4, NLT).
The trumpets were present, but silent. The heavenly hosts were watching in anticipation, but uncharacterically quiet. I don't know if it's possible to hear footsteps in heaven (you know, with the clouds for a floor and all!) but I imagine the angel carrying the incense burner echoing them as he makes his way to the alter. All of heaven stops and holds its breath in anticiption.
The continual praise of the Lord stops for one thing--the prayers of the righteous. That'show important your prayers are to God.
God, in this season of celebrating how precious You are to us, thank you for the reminder of how precious we are to You. Thank You for holding our communication with You in such high regard that You quiet all of heaven for it to be offered up to You.
Application:
Read Revelation 4, 7, & 8:1-5 from a few different translations and really soak in the vivid scene. Notice that John writes about his vision in past tense (because he's telling about a vision he had seen) but presents some elements in the present tense to convey that these events are occuring in the present. Praise and thank God as you visualize that at that very minute, heaven's stopping to hear your heartfelt prayer offering.
Power Verses:
2 Chronicles 6:39, "then from heaven, your dwelling place, hear their prayer and their pleas, and uphold their cause. And forgive your people, who have sinned against you."(NIV)
Daniel 10:12, "Then he said, 'Don’t be afraid, Daniel. Since the first day you began to pray for understanding and to humble yourself before your God, your request has been heard in heaven. I have come in answer to your prayer'."(NLT)
Saturday, January 1, 2011
Compassion 101
by Kathy Lay
This Week’s Verse: Luke 6:36, “You must be compassionate, just as your Father is compassionate.”(NLT)
Devotion: The loud meow was unmistakable. Great! Another stray cat to deal with. I told the kids not to even think about feeding it or showing it any attention so that it would move on its merry way. After all, we did not have time to deal with an unwanted visitor right now.
And the thing was pitiful! Matted hair, a tail that had been partially bobbed by who knows what, and an annoying, constant meow did nothing to win our favor. I felt pangs of guilt for not showing the thing some affection, but why encourage it to stay?
That was Tuesday evening. By Wednesday morning, the kids and I heard it as we bolted out the door to get to work and school, but we didn’t see it anywhere. Pulling out of the driveway, I muttered, “Gee, I wonder if it’s stuck somewhere since it didn’t come out.”
When we got home that evening, the meows were still loud. Strangely, they were coming from one of my over-sized flower pots. The cat was lying inside, clearly dying, and crying out because he could hear us nearby.
I lost it. I begged Shane to end its misery and then held a flashlight while he dug its final resting place. The full weight of my earlier lack of compassion hit me and I can’t remember a time when I’ve felt more like a wretch. That cat had come to us to die and I had withheld love in its final hours.
I sobbed to the cat I was sorry and I sobbed to God that I was sorry I hadn’t shown tenderness to “the least of these.” I’d already felt that was the lesson God was impressing and its conviction was almost unbearable.
Back in the house afterwards, Shane shared he’d come to the same conclusion—that God was showing us that we get so wrapped up in our busy lives that we become hardened or at least apathetic to those in need. To those who come to us for maybe nothing more than a kind word or a little love.
We both feel that God wanted our eyes fully opened to this fact because there are people all around us—maybe even the “undesirable”—who He does not want us to brush aside. Jesus showed compassion, especially to the sick and rejected, and we are to do the same. Did I already know that? Yes. Did I practice it? Sadly, no.
Lesson learned.
Now God, help me to put this lesson into action. Do I know without a doubt that Your will is always to show love, even when it’s inconvenient? Yes! But Lord, putting it into action is so difficult and I need Your strength and resolve to be obedient in this command to love and be compassionate to others. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Application:
Keep your eyes open for the ones God places in front of you who need compassion and love.
Power Verses:
Mark 1:41, “Moved with compassion, Jesus reached out and touched him. ‘I am willing,’ he said. ‘Be healed!’”(NLT).
Luke 10:33, “Then a despised Samaritan came along, and when he saw the man, he felt compassion for him”(NLT).
Phillipians 2:1, “[ Have the Attitude of Christ ] Is there any encouragement from belonging to Christ? Any comfort from his love? Any fellowship together in the Spirit? Are your hearts tender and compassionate?”(NLT)
Friday, August 20, 2010
Blessed Peace
by Kathy Lay
This Week’s Verse: Romans 15:13, “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”(NIV)
Devotion:
This seems to be a season when many people who are close to me are facing decisions. A restlessness or dissatisfaction is stirring some to consider changes in jobs, changes in ministry, changes in habits, changes in whatever; but some sort of change that will move them closer to their goals and where God would have them be.
The most difficult part about being in that “what-do-I-do-now” phase is knowing for sure which path to take. Lord, do I do this? Am I supposed to go this way? How do I know You’re in this?
That last question, I believe, can be answered at least in part by this: peace. For example, three years ago when I was getting burnt out teaching (actually, the grading is what burnt me out) at ISU, I was presented with another job option. It made no logical sense to switch and the thought of it made me so nervous I had panic attacks.
So I prayed and asked God for guidance. He provided a scripture that made it clear this new job WAS what He wanted for me and that I was to trust Him. And from that point on I had peace about the decision. The circumstance still made me nervous, but I had peace I made the right decision.
And I've seen this same cycle repeat several times since then.
One of the fruits of God's spirit is peace. Trust that when you begin to feel peace about a decision--no matter how scary, or crazy, or unpopular that decision may seem--God will give you peace about that decision. And He'll be with you in the resulting circumstance as well.
Father, thank you for that blessed peace that passes all understanding when we go the way You would have us go. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Application:
What decisions do you face? Invite God into the process and ask that peace well up in you when considering the right decision--the way that God wants you to go. Pray that His peace will be your compass.
Power Verses:
Galatians 5:22, "But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness"(NLT).
1 Thessalonians 5:23, "Now may the God of peace make you holy in every way, and may your whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless until our Lord Jesus Christ comes again."(NLT)
Judges 18:6, "The priest answered them, 'Go in peace. Your journey has the LORD's approval.'"(NIV).
This Week’s Verse: Romans 15:13, “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”(NIV)
Devotion:
This seems to be a season when many people who are close to me are facing decisions. A restlessness or dissatisfaction is stirring some to consider changes in jobs, changes in ministry, changes in habits, changes in whatever; but some sort of change that will move them closer to their goals and where God would have them be.
The most difficult part about being in that “what-do-I-do-now” phase is knowing for sure which path to take. Lord, do I do this? Am I supposed to go this way? How do I know You’re in this?
That last question, I believe, can be answered at least in part by this: peace. For example, three years ago when I was getting burnt out teaching (actually, the grading is what burnt me out) at ISU, I was presented with another job option. It made no logical sense to switch and the thought of it made me so nervous I had panic attacks.
So I prayed and asked God for guidance. He provided a scripture that made it clear this new job WAS what He wanted for me and that I was to trust Him. And from that point on I had peace about the decision. The circumstance still made me nervous, but I had peace I made the right decision.
And I've seen this same cycle repeat several times since then.
One of the fruits of God's spirit is peace. Trust that when you begin to feel peace about a decision--no matter how scary, or crazy, or unpopular that decision may seem--God will give you peace about that decision. And He'll be with you in the resulting circumstance as well.
Father, thank you for that blessed peace that passes all understanding when we go the way You would have us go. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Application:
What decisions do you face? Invite God into the process and ask that peace well up in you when considering the right decision--the way that God wants you to go. Pray that His peace will be your compass.
Power Verses:
Galatians 5:22, "But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness"(NLT).
1 Thessalonians 5:23, "Now may the God of peace make you holy in every way, and may your whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless until our Lord Jesus Christ comes again."(NLT)
Judges 18:6, "The priest answered them, 'Go in peace. Your journey has the LORD's approval.'"(NIV).
Friday, August 13, 2010
God's Bouquet
by Kathy Lay
This Week's Verse: Luke 12:28, "And if God cares so wonderfully for flowers that are here today and thrown into the fire tomorrow, he will certainly care for you. Why do you have so little faith?"(NLT)
Devotion:
My mother-in-law owned a flower shop years ago. She enjoyed putting together gorgeous bouquets of mixed flowers, each one bringing a special smell, color, texture, or shape to the creation. Each flower different, yet each one contributing to the overall effect.
She explained that you have to treat each type of flower differently in order for it to do as well as possible. For example, daisies and mums have to have their stems hammered in order to absorb the water in the vase. Delicate roses have to be gently cut at an angle and placed immediately in warm water. Other varieties do well with a simple straight cut.
She said it occurred to her one day as she worked that people are a lot like those flowers. We're all created differently—all uniquely beautiful and designed to contribute something to God's bigger picture, His beautiful arrangement in His kingdom here on earth. Some of us need to be pruned a little more arduously to reach our maximum potential. Some of us are hardy to begin with and need to be softened--maybe even hammered. And some of us have to be handled gently if we're to thrive. The Lord knows the conditions under which we'll flourish for Him.
How true! And when we yield to the Master Florist's techniques, He carefully places us in exactly the right spot among others who are different enough to allow all our special variations to blend, but shine through and be appreciated. He arranges us where we compliment each other and come together to be a part of something breathtakingly beautiful.
Father God, thank you for creating each of us uniquely. Thank you for caring for each of us in the special way that will bring us to our maximum potential in the beautiful bouquet of Your kingdom. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Application: Have you found yourself asking God "Why?" lately? Put your trust in the hands of the Master Gardner who knows exactly what you need in order to fulfill your highest purpose.
Power Verses:
Matthew 6:28-29, "And why do you worry about clothes? See how the lilies of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these."(NIV)
Isaiah 35:1-3, "Even the wilderness and desert will be glad in those days. The wasteland will rejoice and blossom with spring crocuses. Yes, there will be an abundance of flowers and singing and joy! The deserts will become as green as the mountains of Lebanon,as lovely as Mount Carmel or the plain of Sharon. There the Lord will display his glory, the splendor of our God. With this news, strengthen those who have tired hands, and encourage those who have weak knees."(NLT)
Song of Solomon 2:12, "Flowers appear on the earth; the season of singing has come, the cooing of doves is heard in our land."(NIV)
***Special thanks to my mother-in-law, Chalice Baier, for the Good Word that led to this devotional. :-)
This Week's Verse: Luke 12:28, "And if God cares so wonderfully for flowers that are here today and thrown into the fire tomorrow, he will certainly care for you. Why do you have so little faith?"(NLT)
Devotion:
My mother-in-law owned a flower shop years ago. She enjoyed putting together gorgeous bouquets of mixed flowers, each one bringing a special smell, color, texture, or shape to the creation. Each flower different, yet each one contributing to the overall effect.
She explained that you have to treat each type of flower differently in order for it to do as well as possible. For example, daisies and mums have to have their stems hammered in order to absorb the water in the vase. Delicate roses have to be gently cut at an angle and placed immediately in warm water. Other varieties do well with a simple straight cut.
She said it occurred to her one day as she worked that people are a lot like those flowers. We're all created differently—all uniquely beautiful and designed to contribute something to God's bigger picture, His beautiful arrangement in His kingdom here on earth. Some of us need to be pruned a little more arduously to reach our maximum potential. Some of us are hardy to begin with and need to be softened--maybe even hammered. And some of us have to be handled gently if we're to thrive. The Lord knows the conditions under which we'll flourish for Him.
How true! And when we yield to the Master Florist's techniques, He carefully places us in exactly the right spot among others who are different enough to allow all our special variations to blend, but shine through and be appreciated. He arranges us where we compliment each other and come together to be a part of something breathtakingly beautiful.
Father God, thank you for creating each of us uniquely. Thank you for caring for each of us in the special way that will bring us to our maximum potential in the beautiful bouquet of Your kingdom. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Application: Have you found yourself asking God "Why?" lately? Put your trust in the hands of the Master Gardner who knows exactly what you need in order to fulfill your highest purpose.
Power Verses:
Matthew 6:28-29, "And why do you worry about clothes? See how the lilies of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these."(NIV)
Isaiah 35:1-3, "Even the wilderness and desert will be glad in those days. The wasteland will rejoice and blossom with spring crocuses. Yes, there will be an abundance of flowers and singing and joy! The deserts will become as green as the mountains of Lebanon,as lovely as Mount Carmel or the plain of Sharon. There the Lord will display his glory, the splendor of our God. With this news, strengthen those who have tired hands, and encourage those who have weak knees."(NLT)
Song of Solomon 2:12, "Flowers appear on the earth; the season of singing has come, the cooing of doves is heard in our land."(NIV)
***Special thanks to my mother-in-law, Chalice Baier, for the Good Word that led to this devotional. :-)
Friday, August 6, 2010
Re-run: In Defense of Apathy
(***This post is a re-run of a devotion that was originally posted in the Fall of '07.)
by Kathy Lay
This Week's Verse:
Luke 10:41—"The Master said, 'Martha, dear Martha, you're fussing far too much and getting yourself worked up over nothing. One thing only is essential, and Mary has chosen it—it's the main course, and won't be taken from her.'" (MSG)
Devotion:
My hubby and I were talking as we bustled around one morning getting ready to go somewhere. I don’t even remember the specific observation he made, but apparently I considered it trivial. It was something like “The chairs sure did get dirty fast” or “Man, that plant looks bad.” My reply was, “Who cares?”
Now, take note: it was not said in a snotty way and he didn’t take it that way. I meant it in a “that is so not a priority right now” sort of way. In fact, we started laughing, and he said “That’s great—apathy, ya gotta love it.”
Not two minutes later, I responded to something else he said with a similar “So?” As soon as our eyes connected we cracked up! We even began to think of other phrases to communicate apathy…Big deal! Oh well! I could not care any less than I do right now. Whatever! Talk to the hand. Doesn’t matter (or if you’re from where I’m from, “Dudn’t” matter). It has now become a running joke with us.
Here’s my disclaimer: OF COURSE when we’re dealing with others—family, friends, enemies, or strangers—and their needs, apathy is NOT an option for Christians. We are to wear love (Col. 3:14) and usually love and apathy blend about as well as oil and water. That’s a given.
But for a former perfectionist control-freak like me (okay, a current-but-workin’-on-it perfectionist control freak like me) a little apathy aimed in the right direction goes a long way in helping me walk in a more Christ-like way. Don’t believe me? Consider these examples:
*I’ve been working on my hair for fifteen minutes and my stubborn area will not conform to my wishes.
Option A: Waste more time on it, delaying breakfast for my family, and becoming crabby over something no one else will probably even notice.
Option B: Sigh “Oh well,” unplug the curling iron, and turn my attention to helping my family get ready for their day.
*A tractor pulls out right in front of me—I mean, how did he not see me?!
Option A: Think and probably mumble something derogatory as I get worked up and impatient to pass him.
Option B: Exhale “big deal” as I slow down and appreciate the beautiful autumn splendor all around me.
*One of the kiddos comes out to the breakfast table in socks that I certainly wouldn’t have chosen with the outfit.
Option A: Voice my opinion, showing clear disapproval at her choice, and force her to change into more appropriately suited hosiery.
Option B: Tell myself “So what?” At least she took creative initiative.
*Guests are arriving soon, one of whom is a pretty important gentleman. The house is a wreck and food needs prepared.
Option A: Fly into a cleaning and cooking frenzy, barking orders to anyone who dares to get in my way, or worse, doesn’t help.
Option B: “Who cares?!” (Actually, I do…I’m still working on that one.)
But you get the idea. Option A involves spending emotional energy on something inconsequential and possibly even doing some damage. Option B conserves my efforts for other more significant situations that will no doubt arise throughout the day.
You’ve heard the rhetorical question before: A year from now, will what you’re so worked up about really matter? When I ask myself that question, more often than not the reply is something along the lines of “A whole year? I probably won’t even remember two hours from now what currently has my panties in a bunge!”
It all comes down to choosing my battles, knowing which ones are worthy of my time and effort. Mismatched socks aren't, but my daughter developing her own style (albeit a quirky one) is. Being a few minutes late because of a slow moving vehicle isn’t, but honing patience and valuing others is. In fact, most situations dealing with appearances aren't, but the relationship involved most definitely is because it would be worthy to Jesus.
In fact, let’s look at that last example again. Martha was being a responsible hostess. She was expending her efforts to make a pleasing environment for her special guest and that ol’ Mary wasn’t doing her part. But Jesus praised her. She had chosen what was most important. If we placed the scenario in 2007, I can see Martha confronting Mary in a corner and Mary retorting, “Talk to the hand, Sister! I’m going to my Master’s feet.”
So I maintain that apathy has its place. When we use it to replace preoccupation with things that are insignificant to God, it's a tool for growth, for proper perspective. Still confined to our earthly bodies, we only have so much energy. Let’s use ours for what truly matters and develop some healthy apathy for the things that, over the long haul, really don’t.
Lord God, thank you for equipping your daughters with passion for what you’ve entrusted to us. Help us direct our energy towards only what matters to you and to say “Whatever!” as we walk away from the things that don’t. Give us discernment to know the difference. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Application:
What kinds of situations do you tend to get worked up about? After you’re removed from them, does your perspective of their importance change? What’s your favorite apathetic response that you could pull out to use in such circumstances?
Power Verses:
Colossians 3:11—"In this new life, it doesn’t matter if you are a Jew or a Gentile, circumcised or uncircumcised, barbaric, uncivilized, slave, or free. Christ is all that matters, and he lives in all of us." (NLT, emphasis mine)
Daniel 12:13—"And you? Go about your business without fretting or worrying. Relax. When it's all over, you will be on your feet to receive your reward." (MSG)
Matthew 6:25—"Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes?" (NIV)
Ecclesiastes 2:22—"What does a man get for all the toil and anxious striving with which he labors under the sun?" (NIV)
by Kathy Lay
This Week's Verse:
Luke 10:41—"The Master said, 'Martha, dear Martha, you're fussing far too much and getting yourself worked up over nothing. One thing only is essential, and Mary has chosen it—it's the main course, and won't be taken from her.'" (MSG)
Devotion:
My hubby and I were talking as we bustled around one morning getting ready to go somewhere. I don’t even remember the specific observation he made, but apparently I considered it trivial. It was something like “The chairs sure did get dirty fast” or “Man, that plant looks bad.” My reply was, “Who cares?”
Now, take note: it was not said in a snotty way and he didn’t take it that way. I meant it in a “that is so not a priority right now” sort of way. In fact, we started laughing, and he said “That’s great—apathy, ya gotta love it.”
Not two minutes later, I responded to something else he said with a similar “So?” As soon as our eyes connected we cracked up! We even began to think of other phrases to communicate apathy…Big deal! Oh well! I could not care any less than I do right now. Whatever! Talk to the hand. Doesn’t matter (or if you’re from where I’m from, “Dudn’t” matter). It has now become a running joke with us.
Here’s my disclaimer: OF COURSE when we’re dealing with others—family, friends, enemies, or strangers—and their needs, apathy is NOT an option for Christians. We are to wear love (Col. 3:14) and usually love and apathy blend about as well as oil and water. That’s a given.
But for a former perfectionist control-freak like me (okay, a current-but-workin’-on-it perfectionist control freak like me) a little apathy aimed in the right direction goes a long way in helping me walk in a more Christ-like way. Don’t believe me? Consider these examples:
*I’ve been working on my hair for fifteen minutes and my stubborn area will not conform to my wishes.
Option A: Waste more time on it, delaying breakfast for my family, and becoming crabby over something no one else will probably even notice.
Option B: Sigh “Oh well,” unplug the curling iron, and turn my attention to helping my family get ready for their day.
*A tractor pulls out right in front of me—I mean, how did he not see me?!
Option A: Think and probably mumble something derogatory as I get worked up and impatient to pass him.
Option B: Exhale “big deal” as I slow down and appreciate the beautiful autumn splendor all around me.
*One of the kiddos comes out to the breakfast table in socks that I certainly wouldn’t have chosen with the outfit.
Option A: Voice my opinion, showing clear disapproval at her choice, and force her to change into more appropriately suited hosiery.
Option B: Tell myself “So what?” At least she took creative initiative.
*Guests are arriving soon, one of whom is a pretty important gentleman. The house is a wreck and food needs prepared.
Option A: Fly into a cleaning and cooking frenzy, barking orders to anyone who dares to get in my way, or worse, doesn’t help.
Option B: “Who cares?!” (Actually, I do…I’m still working on that one.)
But you get the idea. Option A involves spending emotional energy on something inconsequential and possibly even doing some damage. Option B conserves my efforts for other more significant situations that will no doubt arise throughout the day.
You’ve heard the rhetorical question before: A year from now, will what you’re so worked up about really matter? When I ask myself that question, more often than not the reply is something along the lines of “A whole year? I probably won’t even remember two hours from now what currently has my panties in a bunge!”
It all comes down to choosing my battles, knowing which ones are worthy of my time and effort. Mismatched socks aren't, but my daughter developing her own style (albeit a quirky one) is. Being a few minutes late because of a slow moving vehicle isn’t, but honing patience and valuing others is. In fact, most situations dealing with appearances aren't, but the relationship involved most definitely is because it would be worthy to Jesus.
In fact, let’s look at that last example again. Martha was being a responsible hostess. She was expending her efforts to make a pleasing environment for her special guest and that ol’ Mary wasn’t doing her part. But Jesus praised her. She had chosen what was most important. If we placed the scenario in 2007, I can see Martha confronting Mary in a corner and Mary retorting, “Talk to the hand, Sister! I’m going to my Master’s feet.”
So I maintain that apathy has its place. When we use it to replace preoccupation with things that are insignificant to God, it's a tool for growth, for proper perspective. Still confined to our earthly bodies, we only have so much energy. Let’s use ours for what truly matters and develop some healthy apathy for the things that, over the long haul, really don’t.
Lord God, thank you for equipping your daughters with passion for what you’ve entrusted to us. Help us direct our energy towards only what matters to you and to say “Whatever!” as we walk away from the things that don’t. Give us discernment to know the difference. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Application:
What kinds of situations do you tend to get worked up about? After you’re removed from them, does your perspective of their importance change? What’s your favorite apathetic response that you could pull out to use in such circumstances?
Power Verses:
Colossians 3:11—"In this new life, it doesn’t matter if you are a Jew or a Gentile, circumcised or uncircumcised, barbaric, uncivilized, slave, or free. Christ is all that matters, and he lives in all of us." (NLT, emphasis mine)
Daniel 12:13—"And you? Go about your business without fretting or worrying. Relax. When it's all over, you will be on your feet to receive your reward." (MSG)
Matthew 6:25—"Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes?" (NIV)
Ecclesiastes 2:22—"What does a man get for all the toil and anxious striving with which he labors under the sun?" (NIV)
Friday, July 16, 2010
Prayer Modeling
by Kathy Lay
This Week’s Verse: Luke 11:1, “One day Jesus was praying in a certain place. When he finished, one of his disciples said to him, "Lord, teach us to pray, just as John taught his disciples."(NIV)
Devotion:
Prayer came hard for me on a recent morning. I’d been praying for a lot of people’s health issues lately, as well as my own “usual” stuff, and I just felt I couldn’t ask God for one more single solitary thing. Do you ever get to that point? He’s just given us so much, ya know?
Plus, I’d just woken up and wasn’t fully engaged mentally. Trying to put aside the grogginess, I told God, “I have no idea what to pray, Lord. You take care of all things, I know that, so I’m finding it hard to put thoughts into words. And you already know it all anyway.”
Instantly, my mind woke up to a verse in Luke 11 where the disciples ask Jesus how to pray. Jesus’answer? The Lord’s prayer. I felt like God responded to me by saying, “Just pray that.” So I did, in a personalized way:
Lord, you are my God in Heaven. Holy is your Name. Let your Kingdom burst forth here on earth just like in Heaven and allow my family and me to be a mighty part of that. Show us your will and give us the strength to walk in it. Thank you for providing food, shelter, transportation and so much more and I do ask your continued provision. Thank you for your forgiveness and please keep extending grace, helping me to do the same with others. Keep temptation to sin at bay governed by the self-control your Spirit allows and keep evil from us by your wall of protection. To You is the power and glory, Jesus, forever. Amen.
By the end of the prayer I felt that wonderful peace that passes all understanding. God reminded me that I sometimes make things more complicated than they really need to be—even talking to Him, when he modeled how to do it.
In this simple prayer, all the power of heaven is released to do its work here among us.
Lord, thank you for modeling prayer for the disciples, both then and now.
Application:
Practice putting the Lord’s Prayer into your own words, including more specific and detailed requests, if you’d like. Or revel in the simplicity of keeping it general. Anticipate the Kingdom descending to earth as it is in heaven.
Power Verses:
Matthew 6:9-13, “This, then, is how you should pray: 'Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.”(NIV)
1 Kings 8:28, “Nevertheless, listen to my prayer and my plea, O Lord my God. Hear the cry and the prayer that your servant is making to you today.”(NLT)
1 Peter 3:12, “For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and his ears are attentive to their prayer, but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.”(NIV)
This Week’s Verse: Luke 11:1, “One day Jesus was praying in a certain place. When he finished, one of his disciples said to him, "Lord, teach us to pray, just as John taught his disciples."(NIV)
Devotion:
Prayer came hard for me on a recent morning. I’d been praying for a lot of people’s health issues lately, as well as my own “usual” stuff, and I just felt I couldn’t ask God for one more single solitary thing. Do you ever get to that point? He’s just given us so much, ya know?
Plus, I’d just woken up and wasn’t fully engaged mentally. Trying to put aside the grogginess, I told God, “I have no idea what to pray, Lord. You take care of all things, I know that, so I’m finding it hard to put thoughts into words. And you already know it all anyway.”
Instantly, my mind woke up to a verse in Luke 11 where the disciples ask Jesus how to pray. Jesus’answer? The Lord’s prayer. I felt like God responded to me by saying, “Just pray that.” So I did, in a personalized way:
Lord, you are my God in Heaven. Holy is your Name. Let your Kingdom burst forth here on earth just like in Heaven and allow my family and me to be a mighty part of that. Show us your will and give us the strength to walk in it. Thank you for providing food, shelter, transportation and so much more and I do ask your continued provision. Thank you for your forgiveness and please keep extending grace, helping me to do the same with others. Keep temptation to sin at bay governed by the self-control your Spirit allows and keep evil from us by your wall of protection. To You is the power and glory, Jesus, forever. Amen.
By the end of the prayer I felt that wonderful peace that passes all understanding. God reminded me that I sometimes make things more complicated than they really need to be—even talking to Him, when he modeled how to do it.
In this simple prayer, all the power of heaven is released to do its work here among us.
Lord, thank you for modeling prayer for the disciples, both then and now.
Application:
Practice putting the Lord’s Prayer into your own words, including more specific and detailed requests, if you’d like. Or revel in the simplicity of keeping it general. Anticipate the Kingdom descending to earth as it is in heaven.
Power Verses:
Matthew 6:9-13, “This, then, is how you should pray: 'Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.”(NIV)
1 Kings 8:28, “Nevertheless, listen to my prayer and my plea, O Lord my God. Hear the cry and the prayer that your servant is making to you today.”(NLT)
1 Peter 3:12, “For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and his ears are attentive to their prayer, but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.”(NIV)
Friday, June 11, 2010
Ministry: Hold On Loosely
by Kathy Lay
This Week's Verse: Mark 6:30-31, “The apostles returned to Jesus from their ministry tour and told him all they had done and taught. Then Jesus said, ‘Let’s go off by ourselves to a quiet place and rest awhile.’ He said this because there were so many people coming and going that Jesus and his apostles didn’t even have time to eat.”(NLT)
Devotion:
I can recall very few times when I’ve been too busy to eat (ha!) but otherwise I can relate to what the disciples are experiencing in this week’s verse. And many of you can too.
In Mark 6:7, Jesus sends the disciples out two by two to minister to people. In verse 13 we find out that not only did they tell people to turn from their sins, but they also cast out many demons and healed the sick, anointing them with olive oil. All in all, a very successful season of ministry!
Understandable then, that when the disciples meet up again with Jesus as shown in verse 30, they are emotionally stoked about what they’d been able to do. I can just see them trying to talk over each other with stories of the incredible work they’d been doing. And with so many people coming and going all around them, they no doubt attracted larger crowds with their enthusiasm. I wonder if the disciples were thinking, “We can do even more work here among these people! What are we waiting for?”
But Jesus doesn’t send them out again—at least not yet. “Let’s get away from the crowds for a while and rest,” he tells them.
Rest? But Lord, we have so much to do! Who has time to rest when there’s VBS planning, camp registering and packing, song practicing, Sunday school preparing, and church cleaning to do?
In our ministries—Spirit-driven, God-ordained, kingdom-vital ministries—we will have busy seasons. We may thrive on them at times, while at other times we may feel completely wrung out. But regardless of whether we feel the need to or not, we must listen when we hear Jesus asking us to rest and spend time with Him.
If we don’t, that’s like saying, “Jesus, you understand why I can’t be in the Word today of ALL days, right? Today’s the big event I’m doing for you!” Or maybe it’s like saying, “I have to be at the shelter at 6 a.m. to serve your people breakfast, Lord. I’ll catch ya later.” Or even saying, “Lord, I have to get this devotional finished. I’ll pray later.” (Ouch.)
An esteemed worship leader (I think her name is Missy Milbourn or something like that) was once talking with me about the demands of ministry. She shared what helps her keep things in proper perspective. “We need to hold loosely to our ministries, but hold tightly to Jesus.” After all, which do we love more?
As we minister, we must heed Jesus’ promptings and go rest with Him. There we’ll find solace from the frenetic pace, even if we may not want to at first. And we’ll be reminded that He’s the one who sustains us as we carry out His work.
Lord, help us always to hold loosely enough to our ministries to spend time and rest with you. Thank you for grace when we do run ahead or rely on our own abilities. Become our greatest desire. In Jesus’ Name.
Application:
If you aren’t currently serving in a ministry, you’re missing out on a blessing. Consider areas you could serve (VBS is fast approaching!). If you do have a ministry (or multiple ministries!) is it difficult for you to slow down sometimes and just rest with Jesus? If so, mark a specific time each day to do this and commit to keeping it until it becomes a habit.
Power Verses:
2 Corinthians 3:5-6, “Not that we are competent in ourselves to claim anything for ourselves, but our competence comes from God. He has made us competent as ministers of a new covenant—not of the letter but of the Spirit; for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.”(NIV)
2 Corinthians 4:7, “But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us.”(NIV)
Acts 8:21, “You have no part or share in this ministry, because your heart is not right before God.”(NIV)
This Week's Verse: Mark 6:30-31, “The apostles returned to Jesus from their ministry tour and told him all they had done and taught. Then Jesus said, ‘Let’s go off by ourselves to a quiet place and rest awhile.’ He said this because there were so many people coming and going that Jesus and his apostles didn’t even have time to eat.”(NLT)
Devotion:
I can recall very few times when I’ve been too busy to eat (ha!) but otherwise I can relate to what the disciples are experiencing in this week’s verse. And many of you can too.
In Mark 6:7, Jesus sends the disciples out two by two to minister to people. In verse 13 we find out that not only did they tell people to turn from their sins, but they also cast out many demons and healed the sick, anointing them with olive oil. All in all, a very successful season of ministry!
Understandable then, that when the disciples meet up again with Jesus as shown in verse 30, they are emotionally stoked about what they’d been able to do. I can just see them trying to talk over each other with stories of the incredible work they’d been doing. And with so many people coming and going all around them, they no doubt attracted larger crowds with their enthusiasm. I wonder if the disciples were thinking, “We can do even more work here among these people! What are we waiting for?”
But Jesus doesn’t send them out again—at least not yet. “Let’s get away from the crowds for a while and rest,” he tells them.
Rest? But Lord, we have so much to do! Who has time to rest when there’s VBS planning, camp registering and packing, song practicing, Sunday school preparing, and church cleaning to do?
In our ministries—Spirit-driven, God-ordained, kingdom-vital ministries—we will have busy seasons. We may thrive on them at times, while at other times we may feel completely wrung out. But regardless of whether we feel the need to or not, we must listen when we hear Jesus asking us to rest and spend time with Him.
If we don’t, that’s like saying, “Jesus, you understand why I can’t be in the Word today of ALL days, right? Today’s the big event I’m doing for you!” Or maybe it’s like saying, “I have to be at the shelter at 6 a.m. to serve your people breakfast, Lord. I’ll catch ya later.” Or even saying, “Lord, I have to get this devotional finished. I’ll pray later.” (Ouch.)
An esteemed worship leader (I think her name is Missy Milbourn or something like that) was once talking with me about the demands of ministry. She shared what helps her keep things in proper perspective. “We need to hold loosely to our ministries, but hold tightly to Jesus.” After all, which do we love more?
As we minister, we must heed Jesus’ promptings and go rest with Him. There we’ll find solace from the frenetic pace, even if we may not want to at first. And we’ll be reminded that He’s the one who sustains us as we carry out His work.
Lord, help us always to hold loosely enough to our ministries to spend time and rest with you. Thank you for grace when we do run ahead or rely on our own abilities. Become our greatest desire. In Jesus’ Name.
Application:
If you aren’t currently serving in a ministry, you’re missing out on a blessing. Consider areas you could serve (VBS is fast approaching!). If you do have a ministry (or multiple ministries!) is it difficult for you to slow down sometimes and just rest with Jesus? If so, mark a specific time each day to do this and commit to keeping it until it becomes a habit.
Power Verses:
2 Corinthians 3:5-6, “Not that we are competent in ourselves to claim anything for ourselves, but our competence comes from God. He has made us competent as ministers of a new covenant—not of the letter but of the Spirit; for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.”(NIV)
2 Corinthians 4:7, “But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us.”(NIV)
Acts 8:21, “You have no part or share in this ministry, because your heart is not right before God.”(NIV)
Friday, June 4, 2010
The Race
by Kathy Lay
This Week’s Verse: Hebrews 12:1, “Such a large crowd of witnesses is all around us! So we must get rid of everything that slows us down, especially the sin that just won't let go. And we must be determined to run the race that is ahead of us.”(CEV)
Devotion:
On a hot, sunny morning last week, I headed off to “Track Day” to watch my kids participate in the annual end-of-school-year tradition. I never expected to be moved to tears by catching a glimpse of heaven while I was there.
You see, there was one little girl who couldn’t quite run. She could walk briskly though, and her enthusiasm was clear from the moment she took her place on the starting line. The other four girls in her heat also lined up wearing remarkable smiles that I noticed, but didn’t attach any particular meaning to—yet.
Even before “On your mark…Get set…” a chant began to swell up around me by the student spectators. “Au-tumn…Au-tumn…AU-TUMN” was repeated with growing volume as the race began.
“Go!” And they were off. Autumn and her competitors left the gate as a single unit, barreling down the track as a power-walking unified force. Autumn led the pack and the others shared happy sideways glances as they allowed her to set the pace. The crowd continued in its relentless encouragement for the duration of the event and as Autumn crossed the finish line just a neck ahead of the other girls, it exploded with cheers of Woo hoo and Way to go! Victory was written on every face because of the triumph of one girl finishing the race marked out for her.
And there I sat stunned, tears streaming down my face, at what I’d just witnessed. (Thank goodness for sunglasses.) What a wonderful reminder of how we are to cheer one another towards the mark we all aspire to reach—a tangible, present-day example of the promise in this week’s verse! We have a heavenly crowd of spectators—all the saints who have gone before—cheering us on in our race from heaven's bleachers.
And because of that promise, we can pass on encouragement and walk with others here on this side of the ultimate finish line.
Father, what a blessing to see the powerful example of grace and encouragement through the kids at that race! Help us adults to copy it. Open our eyes to see those you’ve placed around us to influence and support by the power of Your Holy Spirit. In Jesus’ Name.
Application:
Can you think of people that might need you to walk along beside them to help them stay in the race? Who would be encouraged by your cheering and encouragement to finish it well?
Power Verses:
Romans 15:5, “May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus.”(NIV)
1 Thessalonians 5:11, “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.”(NIV)
Acts 20:24, “However, I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the gospel of God's grace.(NIV)
This Week’s Verse: Hebrews 12:1, “Such a large crowd of witnesses is all around us! So we must get rid of everything that slows us down, especially the sin that just won't let go. And we must be determined to run the race that is ahead of us.”(CEV)
Devotion:
On a hot, sunny morning last week, I headed off to “Track Day” to watch my kids participate in the annual end-of-school-year tradition. I never expected to be moved to tears by catching a glimpse of heaven while I was there.
You see, there was one little girl who couldn’t quite run. She could walk briskly though, and her enthusiasm was clear from the moment she took her place on the starting line. The other four girls in her heat also lined up wearing remarkable smiles that I noticed, but didn’t attach any particular meaning to—yet.
Even before “On your mark…Get set…” a chant began to swell up around me by the student spectators. “Au-tumn…Au-tumn…AU-TUMN” was repeated with growing volume as the race began.
“Go!” And they were off. Autumn and her competitors left the gate as a single unit, barreling down the track as a power-walking unified force. Autumn led the pack and the others shared happy sideways glances as they allowed her to set the pace. The crowd continued in its relentless encouragement for the duration of the event and as Autumn crossed the finish line just a neck ahead of the other girls, it exploded with cheers of Woo hoo and Way to go! Victory was written on every face because of the triumph of one girl finishing the race marked out for her.
And there I sat stunned, tears streaming down my face, at what I’d just witnessed. (Thank goodness for sunglasses.) What a wonderful reminder of how we are to cheer one another towards the mark we all aspire to reach—a tangible, present-day example of the promise in this week’s verse! We have a heavenly crowd of spectators—all the saints who have gone before—cheering us on in our race from heaven's bleachers.
And because of that promise, we can pass on encouragement and walk with others here on this side of the ultimate finish line.
Father, what a blessing to see the powerful example of grace and encouragement through the kids at that race! Help us adults to copy it. Open our eyes to see those you’ve placed around us to influence and support by the power of Your Holy Spirit. In Jesus’ Name.
Application:
Can you think of people that might need you to walk along beside them to help them stay in the race? Who would be encouraged by your cheering and encouragement to finish it well?
Power Verses:
Romans 15:5, “May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus.”(NIV)
1 Thessalonians 5:11, “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.”(NIV)
Acts 20:24, “However, I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the gospel of God's grace.(NIV)
Friday, May 21, 2010
Flight Training
by Kathy Lay
This Week's Verse: Proverbs 22:6, "Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it."(NASB)
Devotion:
The other morning, my kids and I witnessed a beautiful occurrence. Out of our window, we watched as a mom and dad bird taught their babies how to fly. The little ones were perched around the lattice on our deck. Mom and Dad flew back and forth from there to a nearby arbor and retaining wall, trying to coax the little fuzz-heads to follow suit.
Sure enough, with their parents' attentive chirping (bird-language encouragement?), the little ones took flight one by one. Short little “fly-jumps” turned to bolder, longer flights. The parents were there during the whole process.
Boy, if that scenario isn't ripe for life application, I don't know what is!
I felt a lump form in my throat as I thought about how soon my own little lovies will be flying our coop, leaving our nest empty. I wondered if Mom and Dad Bird had such a bitter-sweet feeling or if instinct simply spurred them to start preparing for their next brood. I smiled, imagining them offering up little birdie prayers of protection over their young. Regardless, they set an awesome parental example of preparing our own young to launch into adulthood.
From the time our kids are helpless newborns, we begin a gradual process of equipping them little by little to become independent. They start moving themselves, feeding themselves, expressing themselves, dressing themselves, asserting themselves, eventually transporting themselves, and finally, even paying for themselves! We exert a little less control with each milestone and relinquish more control to them as they prove worthy.
Then one day they're ready to take flight. And we pray like crazy that everything they've been taught has taken root and that they'll follow after God. That while they taste independence for the first time, they still depend on God. We pray that the wings we've given them will take them far, but that they experience the fulfilled promise in Isaiah 40:31: "But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint"(NIV).
May that be true for them. And may that be true for us as we continue to soar to new heights on the winds of God's grace and power. As illustrated by the bird family that blessed my kids and me, the best training tool is leading by example.
Power Verses:
Matthew 6:26, "Look at the birds. They don’t plant or harvest or store food in barns, for your heavenly Father feeds them. And aren’t you far more valuable to him than they are?"(NLT)
Psalm 124:7, "We've flown free from their fangs, free of their traps, free as a bird. Their grip is broken; we're free as a bird in flight."(MSG)
Isaiah 54:13, "I will teach all your children,and they will enjoy great peace."(NLT)
This Week's Verse: Proverbs 22:6, "Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it."(NASB)
Devotion:
The other morning, my kids and I witnessed a beautiful occurrence. Out of our window, we watched as a mom and dad bird taught their babies how to fly. The little ones were perched around the lattice on our deck. Mom and Dad flew back and forth from there to a nearby arbor and retaining wall, trying to coax the little fuzz-heads to follow suit.
Sure enough, with their parents' attentive chirping (bird-language encouragement?), the little ones took flight one by one. Short little “fly-jumps” turned to bolder, longer flights. The parents were there during the whole process.
Boy, if that scenario isn't ripe for life application, I don't know what is!
I felt a lump form in my throat as I thought about how soon my own little lovies will be flying our coop, leaving our nest empty. I wondered if Mom and Dad Bird had such a bitter-sweet feeling or if instinct simply spurred them to start preparing for their next brood. I smiled, imagining them offering up little birdie prayers of protection over their young. Regardless, they set an awesome parental example of preparing our own young to launch into adulthood.
From the time our kids are helpless newborns, we begin a gradual process of equipping them little by little to become independent. They start moving themselves, feeding themselves, expressing themselves, dressing themselves, asserting themselves, eventually transporting themselves, and finally, even paying for themselves! We exert a little less control with each milestone and relinquish more control to them as they prove worthy.
Then one day they're ready to take flight. And we pray like crazy that everything they've been taught has taken root and that they'll follow after God. That while they taste independence for the first time, they still depend on God. We pray that the wings we've given them will take them far, but that they experience the fulfilled promise in Isaiah 40:31: "But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint"(NIV).
May that be true for them. And may that be true for us as we continue to soar to new heights on the winds of God's grace and power. As illustrated by the bird family that blessed my kids and me, the best training tool is leading by example.
Lord, how we thank You for giving us wings to take flight--for Your constant presence that give us the confidence to even attempt such a thing! Equip us to impart that same tender-loving presence with our children and that they take flight knowing it's You who allows them to soar. In Jesus' Name.
Application: In what ways are you preparing your brood to take flight? Consider maturity in all its areas, including physical, emotional, psychological, and especially spiritual. In what ways can you lead by example?Power Verses:
Matthew 6:26, "Look at the birds. They don’t plant or harvest or store food in barns, for your heavenly Father feeds them. And aren’t you far more valuable to him than they are?"(NLT)
Psalm 124:7, "We've flown free from their fangs, free of their traps, free as a bird. Their grip is broken; we're free as a bird in flight."(MSG)
Isaiah 54:13, "I will teach all your children,and they will enjoy great peace."(NLT)
Friday, May 14, 2010
Clingy
by Kathy Lay
This Week's Verse: Deuteronomy 13:4, “Serve only the LORD your God and fear him alone. Obey his commands, listen to his voice, and cling to him.”(NLT)
Devotion:
Cleave, adhere, stick. In a word? Cling.
We usually perceive "clingy" as something negative, right? I know I hate it when my clothes are clingy; I tend to want to distance myself when people are too clingy; and I've even scolded our dog when she follows not more than six inches behind me when she's uneasy. Ugh! It kinda gets on my nerves, this clingy business.
It's frustrating, isn't it? You want to be there, and honestly, as wives, mothers, daughters, sisters, girlfriends, and women in general--you know, the "nurturers"--we feel the enormous expectation to meet everyone's needs. Then if we fall short we feel guilty because it's just not humanly possible to be everything for everybody. Or sometimes even a few somebodies.
But you know what I find liberating? We were never designed to be! There is only One who can be everything to everybody and this week's verse is clear about Who is truly cling-worthy.
Are we to work faithfully on His behalf? Absolutely. Reach out to help? Of course. Are we to carry others' burdens? Without question.
But we also have to recognize our limitations and maybe even remind others--the cling-ons--that anytime they seek fulfillment solely from mere humans, they'll come up unsatisfied. People aren't perfect. But thank God, He is.
I once heard a quote that said something like, "If I was a perfect mom, my kids wouldn't need God." Pithy, yes, but there's a kernal of truth there. And you could substitute relationships within the sentence: If I was a perfect friend, my friend wouldn't need God. If I was a perfect wife, my husband wouldn't need God. Sure, they'd still need Him, but it's less likely they'd see their need for Him if their needs were met with a "perfect" friend or wife! Why cling when life is grand?
Please understand, the above is not a cop-out of our Christian duty to love one another well. In fact, it increases our own need to cling. When that guilt at falling short kicks in, or emptiness or loneliness or numbness or simply a desire for change, we are in turn propelled to someone for strength, encouragement, or answers. It's definitely okay to reach out to those you love and respect. But be sure above all else you're reaching out to grab hold of God. He invites you to cling to Him. He desires it.
And when you cling, when you truly hold on tightly with both hands, following Him closely, and talking constantly to Him, everything else fades.
Feeling a little clingy?
Father God, thank you that you not only allow us to cling to You, but that you invite it--even command it! Help us to shift any excessive clinginess to people whole-heartedly to You. We want to cleave and adhere to You. In Jesus' Name.
Application:
Do you see yourself as a clingy person? How do you react when someone has been clingy with you? Praise God for being the only perfect One to cling to.
Power Verses:
Psalm 63:8, "My soul clings to you; your right hand upholds me."(NIV)
Romans 12:9, "Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good."(NIV)
1 Timothy 1:19, "Cling to your faith in Christ, and keep your conscience clear. For some people have deliberately violated their consciences; as a result, their faith has been shipwrecked."(NLT)
This Week's Verse: Deuteronomy 13:4, “Serve only the LORD your God and fear him alone. Obey his commands, listen to his voice, and cling to him.”(NLT)
Devotion:
Cleave, adhere, stick. In a word? Cling.
We usually perceive "clingy" as something negative, right? I know I hate it when my clothes are clingy; I tend to want to distance myself when people are too clingy; and I've even scolded our dog when she follows not more than six inches behind me when she's uneasy. Ugh! It kinda gets on my nerves, this clingy business.
It's frustrating, isn't it? You want to be there, and honestly, as wives, mothers, daughters, sisters, girlfriends, and women in general--you know, the "nurturers"--we feel the enormous expectation to meet everyone's needs. Then if we fall short we feel guilty because it's just not humanly possible to be everything for everybody. Or sometimes even a few somebodies.
But you know what I find liberating? We were never designed to be! There is only One who can be everything to everybody and this week's verse is clear about Who is truly cling-worthy.
Are we to work faithfully on His behalf? Absolutely. Reach out to help? Of course. Are we to carry others' burdens? Without question.
But we also have to recognize our limitations and maybe even remind others--the cling-ons--that anytime they seek fulfillment solely from mere humans, they'll come up unsatisfied. People aren't perfect. But thank God, He is.
I once heard a quote that said something like, "If I was a perfect mom, my kids wouldn't need God." Pithy, yes, but there's a kernal of truth there. And you could substitute relationships within the sentence: If I was a perfect friend, my friend wouldn't need God. If I was a perfect wife, my husband wouldn't need God. Sure, they'd still need Him, but it's less likely they'd see their need for Him if their needs were met with a "perfect" friend or wife! Why cling when life is grand?
Please understand, the above is not a cop-out of our Christian duty to love one another well. In fact, it increases our own need to cling. When that guilt at falling short kicks in, or emptiness or loneliness or numbness or simply a desire for change, we are in turn propelled to someone for strength, encouragement, or answers. It's definitely okay to reach out to those you love and respect. But be sure above all else you're reaching out to grab hold of God. He invites you to cling to Him. He desires it.
And when you cling, when you truly hold on tightly with both hands, following Him closely, and talking constantly to Him, everything else fades.
Feeling a little clingy?
Father God, thank you that you not only allow us to cling to You, but that you invite it--even command it! Help us to shift any excessive clinginess to people whole-heartedly to You. We want to cleave and adhere to You. In Jesus' Name.
Application:
Do you see yourself as a clingy person? How do you react when someone has been clingy with you? Praise God for being the only perfect One to cling to.
Power Verses:
Psalm 63:8, "My soul clings to you; your right hand upholds me."(NIV)
Romans 12:9, "Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good."(NIV)
1 Timothy 1:19, "Cling to your faith in Christ, and keep your conscience clear. For some people have deliberately violated their consciences; as a result, their faith has been shipwrecked."(NLT)
Friday, April 2, 2010
Opened Up
by Kathy Lay
This Week’s Verse: Mark 7:34, “(Jesus) looked up to heaven and with a deep sigh said to him, "Ephphatha!" (which means, "Be opened!" ). (NIV)
Devotion:
We’ve finally reached that much-anticipated time of year when life begins to burst forth all around us. Isn’t that just like God to time the celebration of his Son’s resurrection with the new life springing up in nature right before our very eyes?
We feel rejuvenated by the sun’s warm rays. We inhale and savor the special smell that blows in on the spring wind. We pause to appreciate the blooming of a myriad of different buds. And we marvel at life—though, it temporarily rests, it faithfully returns.
That’s what Jesus’ death and resurrection mean to us too. In this week’s verse, Jesus commanded the blind man’s eyes to be opened. Opened eyes resulted in an opened and changed heart. Jesus had a new devoted follower. That’s the miracle of allowing ourselves to be opened to the Man who opened the grave.
When we die to ourselves under His Lordship, we inherit life. Both here, to the fullest, and in heaven, for eternity. With Him!
Around us, the buds were shut. They’re starting to open and they’re so beautiful.
Jesus’s body was shut up in the tomb. The tomb was opened. And beautiful life—eternal life—was made possible.
Sometimes we shut him out of our lives. May our hearts be always open.
The result will be your blossoming. How truly beautiful.
Father, we rejoice in the resurrection! Just as you walked out of the open grave, open up new life in each of us, even as we open up to receiving it. Thank you for that marvelous Resurrection Power that you want to display in our sometimes closed-minded day-to-day existence. We claim it now, in Jesus' Name!
Application:
Are there areas of your life you've closed off to the Lord? Ask and allow Him to open them up and fill them with His Resurrection Power. He will allow you to bloom! What better way to celebrate Easter?
Power Verses:
Revelation 3:8, “I know all the things you do, and I have opened a door for you that no one can close. You have little strength, yet you obeyed my word and did not deny me."(NLT)
Song of Solomon 6:11, "One day I went strolling through the orchard, looking for signs of spring, Looking for buds about to burst into flower, anticipating readiness, ripeness. Before I knew it my heart was raptured, carried away by lofty thoughts!"(MSG)
Isaiah 35:1-2, "The desert and the parched land will be glad; the wilderness will rejoice and blossom. Like the crocus, it will burst into bloom; it will rejoice greatly and shout for joy..."(NIV)
This Week’s Verse: Mark 7:34, “(Jesus) looked up to heaven and with a deep sigh said to him, "Ephphatha!" (which means, "Be opened!" ). (NIV)
Devotion:
We’ve finally reached that much-anticipated time of year when life begins to burst forth all around us. Isn’t that just like God to time the celebration of his Son’s resurrection with the new life springing up in nature right before our very eyes?
We feel rejuvenated by the sun’s warm rays. We inhale and savor the special smell that blows in on the spring wind. We pause to appreciate the blooming of a myriad of different buds. And we marvel at life—though, it temporarily rests, it faithfully returns.
That’s what Jesus’ death and resurrection mean to us too. In this week’s verse, Jesus commanded the blind man’s eyes to be opened. Opened eyes resulted in an opened and changed heart. Jesus had a new devoted follower. That’s the miracle of allowing ourselves to be opened to the Man who opened the grave.
When we die to ourselves under His Lordship, we inherit life. Both here, to the fullest, and in heaven, for eternity. With Him!
Around us, the buds were shut. They’re starting to open and they’re so beautiful.
Jesus’s body was shut up in the tomb. The tomb was opened. And beautiful life—eternal life—was made possible.
Sometimes we shut him out of our lives. May our hearts be always open.
The result will be your blossoming. How truly beautiful.
Father, we rejoice in the resurrection! Just as you walked out of the open grave, open up new life in each of us, even as we open up to receiving it. Thank you for that marvelous Resurrection Power that you want to display in our sometimes closed-minded day-to-day existence. We claim it now, in Jesus' Name!
Application:
Are there areas of your life you've closed off to the Lord? Ask and allow Him to open them up and fill them with His Resurrection Power. He will allow you to bloom! What better way to celebrate Easter?
Power Verses:
Revelation 3:8, “I know all the things you do, and I have opened a door for you that no one can close. You have little strength, yet you obeyed my word and did not deny me."(NLT)
Song of Solomon 6:11, "One day I went strolling through the orchard, looking for signs of spring, Looking for buds about to burst into flower, anticipating readiness, ripeness. Before I knew it my heart was raptured, carried away by lofty thoughts!"(MSG)
Isaiah 35:1-2, "The desert and the parched land will be glad; the wilderness will rejoice and blossom. Like the crocus, it will burst into bloom; it will rejoice greatly and shout for joy..."(NIV)
Friday, March 26, 2010
He Meets Us There
by Kathy Lay
This Week's Verse: Matthew 7:7, "Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you."
Devotion:
Anyone familiar with my dad knew that the man enjoyed food. Restaurant gift cards were always a great gift option because we always knew they'd be used with pleasure.
As my brother, sister, and our spouses shared stories the other day as we gathered around Dad, my brother-in-law commented that Dad's chili was always an adventure unto itself because you never knew exactly what he'd throw in. Each dish was an experimentation because Dad was into sampling and dabbling and bringing taste to new heights.
So imagine the difficulty that my brother, sister, and I faced when told that Dad's condition was worsening and that he would never again swallow. The doctors said we should start considering whether we wanted Dad to have a feeding tube. Or not.
At one point in the hospital room I was alone with Dad. He was peaceful at the moment and I decided to take the opportunity to speak with God about the whole feeding tube situation. I didn't want to starve Dad but I didn't want to prolong his suffering either.
From these thoughts I turned to my Bible reading for that day which happened to be John 6. Certain scriptures began to jump out at me and I knew God was speaking to me specifically about this situation. Verse 27 said, "But you shouldn't be so concerned about perishable things like food. Spend your energy seeking the eternal life that I, the Son of Man, can give you. For God the Father has sent me for that very purpose." Verse 35 said, "I am the bread of life. No one who comes to me will ever be hungry again..." And verse 51 said, "I am the living bread that came down out of heaven. Anyone who eats this bread will live forever; this bread is my flesh, offered so the world may live."
Friends, my Jesus had spoken His Will through His Word once again. That's what he does! I felt assured of the following: 1) God would take Dad home before we even had to make the decision, or 2) If we did have to make the decision, we need not worry because Jesus is the only nourishment Dad needed. And He had it taken care of.
It turned out that we did have to make the decision, but the nourishment of His Savior was all Dad needed to sustain him for his journey home to meet his maker.
I envision Dad sitting at the banqueting table right now, enjoying a meal with Jesus unlike anything he'd ever had here on earth and he's grinning from ear to ear and possibly sharing a joke.
And I can see that because the Lord showed me everything would be fine. God met me there in the circumstance.
He always does when we ask him to.
Lord, thank you for bringing my earthly father home to you, my heavenly Father. What a meal you must be sharing! And thank you for always meeting us in our circumstances when we only invite you in. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Application:
What circumstance to you need to invite God into right now? Ask Him to meet you there and then go to His Word to see what He has to say.
Power Verses:
Proverbs 8:17, "I love those who love me, and those who seek me find me."(NIV)
Isaiah 58:2, "For day after day they seek me out; they seem eager to know my ways, as if they were a nation that does what is right and has not forsaken the commands of its God. They ask me for just decisions and seem eager for God to come near them."(NIV)
This Week's Verse: Matthew 7:7, "Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you."
Devotion:
Anyone familiar with my dad knew that the man enjoyed food. Restaurant gift cards were always a great gift option because we always knew they'd be used with pleasure.
As my brother, sister, and our spouses shared stories the other day as we gathered around Dad, my brother-in-law commented that Dad's chili was always an adventure unto itself because you never knew exactly what he'd throw in. Each dish was an experimentation because Dad was into sampling and dabbling and bringing taste to new heights.
So imagine the difficulty that my brother, sister, and I faced when told that Dad's condition was worsening and that he would never again swallow. The doctors said we should start considering whether we wanted Dad to have a feeding tube. Or not.
At one point in the hospital room I was alone with Dad. He was peaceful at the moment and I decided to take the opportunity to speak with God about the whole feeding tube situation. I didn't want to starve Dad but I didn't want to prolong his suffering either.
From these thoughts I turned to my Bible reading for that day which happened to be John 6. Certain scriptures began to jump out at me and I knew God was speaking to me specifically about this situation. Verse 27 said, "But you shouldn't be so concerned about perishable things like food. Spend your energy seeking the eternal life that I, the Son of Man, can give you. For God the Father has sent me for that very purpose." Verse 35 said, "I am the bread of life. No one who comes to me will ever be hungry again..." And verse 51 said, "I am the living bread that came down out of heaven. Anyone who eats this bread will live forever; this bread is my flesh, offered so the world may live."
Friends, my Jesus had spoken His Will through His Word once again. That's what he does! I felt assured of the following: 1) God would take Dad home before we even had to make the decision, or 2) If we did have to make the decision, we need not worry because Jesus is the only nourishment Dad needed. And He had it taken care of.
It turned out that we did have to make the decision, but the nourishment of His Savior was all Dad needed to sustain him for his journey home to meet his maker.
I envision Dad sitting at the banqueting table right now, enjoying a meal with Jesus unlike anything he'd ever had here on earth and he's grinning from ear to ear and possibly sharing a joke.
And I can see that because the Lord showed me everything would be fine. God met me there in the circumstance.
He always does when we ask him to.
Lord, thank you for bringing my earthly father home to you, my heavenly Father. What a meal you must be sharing! And thank you for always meeting us in our circumstances when we only invite you in. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Application:
What circumstance to you need to invite God into right now? Ask Him to meet you there and then go to His Word to see what He has to say.
Power Verses:
Proverbs 8:17, "I love those who love me, and those who seek me find me."(NIV)
Isaiah 58:2, "For day after day they seek me out; they seem eager to know my ways, as if they were a nation that does what is right and has not forsaken the commands of its God. They ask me for just decisions and seem eager for God to come near them."(NIV)
Friday, March 5, 2010
Praise is a Disinfunktant
(Today's devotion is a re-run of an early devotion entitled "Funk-Be-Gone". I thought it's message would resonate with a lot of us right now.)
by Kathy Lay
Verse of the Week: Isaiah 61:3,"...the garment of praise for a spirit of heaviness..."
Devotion:
I had a conversation with a dear friend that went something like this:
Me: And how are you today, Love?
Her: Oh I don’t know. I just feel like I’m in a funk. I can’t get excited about anything and I just feel apathetic.
Me: I’ve been going through a little something like that too. It’s like I’m just going through the motions…
I had another conversation with another dear friend that went something like this:
Me: How’s it going, Babe?
Her: Oh, I just feel funky lately, kind of numb, but like the littlest thing could set me off into tears.
Me: That’s strange. It seems there are several of us going through the same funk.
A third conversation that was strikingly similar confirmed it—does that qualify as an epidemic? Present in each of these conversations was the word “funk.” Definitions of this term (yes, I really looked) include “a depressed state of mind,” “to shrink back from undertaking or facing something,” and a sense of “dread.”
Actually, I could check off each of those definitions as a symptom I’m experiencing, and it sounds like a lot of others could too. Girls, we’re being robbed! Our joy has been stolen! How can we get it back?
Praise the Lord that he thinks of everything, even restoring our joy--even when we settle into our funk so deeply that we’re not sure we can or even want to come out. His remedy is simple. Not necessarily easy, mind you, but simple: praise him.
Isaiah 61:3 describes God’s promise “To console those who mourn in Zion, to give them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning,” and “the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness;” (NKJV). We just have to choose to be obedient and put it on.David wrote in Psalm 34:1, “I will bless the LORD at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth.” The man after God’s own heart didn’t only praise when things were rosy, he continually praised. Even in a funk.
We know God doesn’t need us to put on the garment of praise for His sake, so it must be for our own good. Become undignified before your Lord (2 Samuel 6:22) and let him fill you with his joy. Let your praise be your "disinfunktant."
Father God, we lay our funk at your feet. We want to be effective for you and we need your power to sustain us in that. Accept our praise as a fragrant offering that pleases you and unleashes your oil of joy. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
Application: Be alone with God and put on your garment of praise. Pick out a praise song you love and belt it out at the top of your lungs.
Power Verses:
Hebrews 1:9,"You have loved righteousness and hated wickedness; therefore God, your God, has set you above your companions by anointing you with the oil of joy." (NIV)
Psalm 9:2,"I will be filled with joy because of you. I will sing praises to your name, O Most High." (NLT)
by Kathy Lay
Verse of the Week: Isaiah 61:3,"...the garment of praise for a spirit of heaviness..."
Devotion:
I had a conversation with a dear friend that went something like this:
Me: And how are you today, Love?
Her: Oh I don’t know. I just feel like I’m in a funk. I can’t get excited about anything and I just feel apathetic.
Me: I’ve been going through a little something like that too. It’s like I’m just going through the motions…
I had another conversation with another dear friend that went something like this:
Me: How’s it going, Babe?
Her: Oh, I just feel funky lately, kind of numb, but like the littlest thing could set me off into tears.
Me: That’s strange. It seems there are several of us going through the same funk.
A third conversation that was strikingly similar confirmed it—does that qualify as an epidemic? Present in each of these conversations was the word “funk.” Definitions of this term (yes, I really looked) include “a depressed state of mind,” “to shrink back from undertaking or facing something,” and a sense of “dread.”
Actually, I could check off each of those definitions as a symptom I’m experiencing, and it sounds like a lot of others could too. Girls, we’re being robbed! Our joy has been stolen! How can we get it back?
Praise the Lord that he thinks of everything, even restoring our joy--even when we settle into our funk so deeply that we’re not sure we can or even want to come out. His remedy is simple. Not necessarily easy, mind you, but simple: praise him.
Isaiah 61:3 describes God’s promise “To console those who mourn in Zion, to give them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning,” and “the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness;” (NKJV). We just have to choose to be obedient and put it on.David wrote in Psalm 34:1, “I will bless the LORD at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth.” The man after God’s own heart didn’t only praise when things were rosy, he continually praised. Even in a funk.
We know God doesn’t need us to put on the garment of praise for His sake, so it must be for our own good. Become undignified before your Lord (2 Samuel 6:22) and let him fill you with his joy. Let your praise be your "disinfunktant."
Father God, we lay our funk at your feet. We want to be effective for you and we need your power to sustain us in that. Accept our praise as a fragrant offering that pleases you and unleashes your oil of joy. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
Application: Be alone with God and put on your garment of praise. Pick out a praise song you love and belt it out at the top of your lungs.
Power Verses:
Hebrews 1:9,"You have loved righteousness and hated wickedness; therefore God, your God, has set you above your companions by anointing you with the oil of joy." (NIV)
Psalm 9:2,"I will be filled with joy because of you. I will sing praises to your name, O Most High." (NLT)
Friday, February 26, 2010
Amazed
by Kathy Lay
This Week's Verse: Mark 6:6, "And he was amazed at their unbelief. . ." (NLT)
Devotion:
Envision the face of someone who is amazed. Astonished. The person is completely taken aback by something. There's the good kind of amazement, like when a child displays a great skill or a stranger surprises you with incredible kindness. But there's also the not-so-good kind, more like disgust. For example, picture a sports fan who disagrees with a ref's call. Get the picture? I see eyes opened wide, a dropped jaw, a negative headshake, and maybe even hands thrown up in the air to reinforce the thought: "Un-be-LEIV-able!"
Mark 6 opens with Jesus visiting his hometown of Nazareth. While teaching at the synogogue, the hometown folks were astonished and asked, "Where did he get all his wisdom and the power to perform such miracles? He's just the carpenter, son of Mary and brother of James, Joseph, Judas, and Simon. And his sisters are right here among us."(v. 2-3, NLT). He's just the local boy, right? Who does he think he is?
They couldn't believe what they were seeing. In fact, the next verse says they were deeply offended and refused to believe in him. They acknowledged his wisdom and powerful miracles, but they still didn't believe?! Come on!
The text goes on to say that because of their unbelief, Jesus couldn't do any mighty miracles among them except to heal a few people. Their unbelief--their lack of faith--put up a wall that blocked any powerful miracles Jesus may have wanted to do. And then scripture records this statement: he was amazed at their unbelief.
Some translations say he was "astonished" at their lack of faith. When I read that, I pictured Jesus throwing his arms up in the air and shaking his head at them.
And that's when it hit me--hard! I wonder how many times a day he is astonished at my lack of faith. I wonder how many times a day he just looks at me in amazement, eyes opened wide and jaw dropped as he thinks, "Kathy, seriously, I can NOT believe that your faith is so small."
And that makes my heart hurt. I don't want Jesus to be astonished at my lack of faith in him being right there wanting to work miracles in my crazy day-to-dayness. I don't want my wall of unbelief to prevent him from doing what he wants to do.
The next time I astonish my Lord, I want it to be in the good way--the child-displaying-skill way. I want him shaking his head with a smile that conveys, "See Kath? See where a little faith will take you?" THAT'S the way I want to amaze him.
Lord, we don't want to be like the hometown folks of Nazareth! You're right here among us wanting to work miracles in our daily lives, but we prevent it when we forget just who you really are. Forgive us for our unbelief and increase our faith. Help us to amaze you in the good way. By the power in your mighty Name, Jesus.
Application:
For a biblical example of astonishing Jesus in the good way, read about the faith of the Roman officer in Matthew 8. He understood the concept of authority and knew Jesus had it. Notice Jesus' reaction in verse 10. Visualize it. How does he look? Etch that picture into your memory and strive to astonish Jesus daily in that way.
Power Verses:
Luke 17:5-6, "The apostles said to the Lord, 'Increase our faith!' He replied, 'If you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mulberry tree, 'Be uprooted and planted in the sea,' and it will obey you.'" (NIV)
Matthew 8:10, "When Jesus heard this, he was astonished and said to those following him, 'I tell you the truth, I have not found anyone in Israel with such great faith.'"(NIV)
Matthew 9:22, "Jesus turned around, and when he saw her he said, 'Daughter, be encouraged! Your faith has made you well.' And the woman was healed at that moment."(NLT)
This Week's Verse: Mark 6:6, "And he was amazed at their unbelief. . ." (NLT)
Devotion:
Envision the face of someone who is amazed. Astonished. The person is completely taken aback by something. There's the good kind of amazement, like when a child displays a great skill or a stranger surprises you with incredible kindness. But there's also the not-so-good kind, more like disgust. For example, picture a sports fan who disagrees with a ref's call. Get the picture? I see eyes opened wide, a dropped jaw, a negative headshake, and maybe even hands thrown up in the air to reinforce the thought: "Un-be-LEIV-able!"
Mark 6 opens with Jesus visiting his hometown of Nazareth. While teaching at the synogogue, the hometown folks were astonished and asked, "Where did he get all his wisdom and the power to perform such miracles? He's just the carpenter, son of Mary and brother of James, Joseph, Judas, and Simon. And his sisters are right here among us."(v. 2-3, NLT). He's just the local boy, right? Who does he think he is?
They couldn't believe what they were seeing. In fact, the next verse says they were deeply offended and refused to believe in him. They acknowledged his wisdom and powerful miracles, but they still didn't believe?! Come on!
The text goes on to say that because of their unbelief, Jesus couldn't do any mighty miracles among them except to heal a few people. Their unbelief--their lack of faith--put up a wall that blocked any powerful miracles Jesus may have wanted to do. And then scripture records this statement: he was amazed at their unbelief.
Some translations say he was "astonished" at their lack of faith. When I read that, I pictured Jesus throwing his arms up in the air and shaking his head at them.
And that's when it hit me--hard! I wonder how many times a day he is astonished at my lack of faith. I wonder how many times a day he just looks at me in amazement, eyes opened wide and jaw dropped as he thinks, "Kathy, seriously, I can NOT believe that your faith is so small."
And that makes my heart hurt. I don't want Jesus to be astonished at my lack of faith in him being right there wanting to work miracles in my crazy day-to-dayness. I don't want my wall of unbelief to prevent him from doing what he wants to do.
The next time I astonish my Lord, I want it to be in the good way--the child-displaying-skill way. I want him shaking his head with a smile that conveys, "See Kath? See where a little faith will take you?" THAT'S the way I want to amaze him.
Lord, we don't want to be like the hometown folks of Nazareth! You're right here among us wanting to work miracles in our daily lives, but we prevent it when we forget just who you really are. Forgive us for our unbelief and increase our faith. Help us to amaze you in the good way. By the power in your mighty Name, Jesus.
Application:
For a biblical example of astonishing Jesus in the good way, read about the faith of the Roman officer in Matthew 8. He understood the concept of authority and knew Jesus had it. Notice Jesus' reaction in verse 10. Visualize it. How does he look? Etch that picture into your memory and strive to astonish Jesus daily in that way.
Power Verses:
Luke 17:5-6, "The apostles said to the Lord, 'Increase our faith!' He replied, 'If you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mulberry tree, 'Be uprooted and planted in the sea,' and it will obey you.'" (NIV)
Matthew 8:10, "When Jesus heard this, he was astonished and said to those following him, 'I tell you the truth, I have not found anyone in Israel with such great faith.'"(NIV)
Matthew 9:22, "Jesus turned around, and when he saw her he said, 'Daughter, be encouraged! Your faith has made you well.' And the woman was healed at that moment."(NLT)
Friday, February 5, 2010
People Like That
by Kathy Lay
This Week's Verse: Mark 2:16, "But when some of the teachers of religious law who were Pharisees saw him eating with people like that, they said to his disciples, "Why does he eat with such scum?'"(NLT, emphasis mine).
Devotion:
People like that. You know, those people.
Who exactly are we talking about? Well, any classification of people we've labeled in some way and rolled our eyes about when we refer to them as those people. Tax collectors back then and politicians today, sinners of all kinds--perverts, abusers, addicts, snobs, liars, you name it--we've got a label for just about everyone.
In the above passage, Jesus was being condemned by the Pharisees for hanging out with "such scum." Can't you just hear the haughtiness in their accusations and see them sneering down their noses?
Check out how the Message puts it: "Later Jesus and his disciples were at home having supper with a collection of disreputable guests. Unlikely as it seems, more than a few of them had become followers. The religion scholars and Pharisees saw him keeping this kind of company and lit into his disciples: "What kind of example is this, acting cozy with the riffraff?'"(Mark:15-16)
The riffraff? Um hmm. And this is when Jesus zings them with his awesome reply that the healthy don't need a doctor, but the sick do. In fact, he says, "I have come to call sinners, not those who think they are already good enough." (v. 17, NLT).
See, that's the thing. You've heard the saying about three fingers pointing back at you when you point at someone else (you know, people like that) and you're familiar with the verse about calling attention to the speck in someone else's eye while ignoring the plank in your own (Matt. 7:3). Any time we imply our superiority because we're fixated on someone else's issues, we're judging.
Jesus makes it pretty clear that those who think they're already good enough will miss out on his fellowship. And I would MUCH rather be at the table with the Lord and the riffraff than with those finger-pointing Pharisees.
I'm not saying it's easy, by any means. I actually think the command to love one another is the primary commandment--along with loving God with all our hearts, souls, minds, and strength--BECAUSE it's the hardest thing to do. It goes against our flesh.
But when we go from snooty acknowledgement of "those people" to introducing them to Jesus, they cease to be "one of those" and become "one of us." And that's what Jesus was all about.
Lord, help us to see others with your eyes. Reshape our hearts so they don't condemn but accept. And love. Help us to see the people behind the sin and love them out of it.
Application: Identify folks you've referred to as "people like that" or "those people". Have you ever later gotten to know and even like someone you used to stereotype and judge? Resolve to get to know at least one "of those people" and try to see them with Jesus' eyes.
Power Verses:
Romans 2:1-2, "Those people are on a dark spiral downward. But if you think that leaves you on the high ground where you can point your finger at others, think again. Every time you criticize someone, you condemn yourself. It takes one to know one. Judgmental criticism of others is a well-known way of escaping detection in your own crimes and misdemeanors. But God isn't so easily diverted. He sees right through all such smoke screens and holds you to what you've done."(MSG)
1 Corinthians 5:9-11, "When I wrote to you before, I told you not to associate with people who indulge in sexual sin. But I wasn’t talking about unbelievers who indulge in sexual sin, or are greedy, or cheat people, or worship idols. You would have to leave this world to avoid people like that. I meant that you are not to associate with anyone who claims to be a believer yet indulges in sexual sin, or is greedy, or worships idols, or is abusive, or is a drunkard, or cheats people. Don’t even eat with such people."(NLT)
This Week's Verse: Mark 2:16, "But when some of the teachers of religious law who were Pharisees saw him eating with people like that, they said to his disciples, "Why does he eat with such scum?'"(NLT, emphasis mine).
Devotion:
People like that. You know, those people.
Who exactly are we talking about? Well, any classification of people we've labeled in some way and rolled our eyes about when we refer to them as those people. Tax collectors back then and politicians today, sinners of all kinds--perverts, abusers, addicts, snobs, liars, you name it--we've got a label for just about everyone.
In the above passage, Jesus was being condemned by the Pharisees for hanging out with "such scum." Can't you just hear the haughtiness in their accusations and see them sneering down their noses?
Check out how the Message puts it: "Later Jesus and his disciples were at home having supper with a collection of disreputable guests. Unlikely as it seems, more than a few of them had become followers. The religion scholars and Pharisees saw him keeping this kind of company and lit into his disciples: "What kind of example is this, acting cozy with the riffraff?'"(Mark:15-16)
The riffraff? Um hmm. And this is when Jesus zings them with his awesome reply that the healthy don't need a doctor, but the sick do. In fact, he says, "I have come to call sinners, not those who think they are already good enough." (v. 17, NLT).
See, that's the thing. You've heard the saying about three fingers pointing back at you when you point at someone else (you know, people like that) and you're familiar with the verse about calling attention to the speck in someone else's eye while ignoring the plank in your own (Matt. 7:3). Any time we imply our superiority because we're fixated on someone else's issues, we're judging.
Jesus makes it pretty clear that those who think they're already good enough will miss out on his fellowship. And I would MUCH rather be at the table with the Lord and the riffraff than with those finger-pointing Pharisees.
I'm not saying it's easy, by any means. I actually think the command to love one another is the primary commandment--along with loving God with all our hearts, souls, minds, and strength--BECAUSE it's the hardest thing to do. It goes against our flesh.
But when we go from snooty acknowledgement of "those people" to introducing them to Jesus, they cease to be "one of those" and become "one of us." And that's what Jesus was all about.
Lord, help us to see others with your eyes. Reshape our hearts so they don't condemn but accept. And love. Help us to see the people behind the sin and love them out of it.
Application: Identify folks you've referred to as "people like that" or "those people". Have you ever later gotten to know and even like someone you used to stereotype and judge? Resolve to get to know at least one "of those people" and try to see them with Jesus' eyes.
Power Verses:
Romans 2:1-2, "Those people are on a dark spiral downward. But if you think that leaves you on the high ground where you can point your finger at others, think again. Every time you criticize someone, you condemn yourself. It takes one to know one. Judgmental criticism of others is a well-known way of escaping detection in your own crimes and misdemeanors. But God isn't so easily diverted. He sees right through all such smoke screens and holds you to what you've done."(MSG)
1 Corinthians 5:9-11, "When I wrote to you before, I told you not to associate with people who indulge in sexual sin. But I wasn’t talking about unbelievers who indulge in sexual sin, or are greedy, or cheat people, or worship idols. You would have to leave this world to avoid people like that. I meant that you are not to associate with anyone who claims to be a believer yet indulges in sexual sin, or is greedy, or worships idols, or is abusive, or is a drunkard, or cheats people. Don’t even eat with such people."(NLT)
Friday, January 29, 2010
Like the Snow and Rain
by Kathy Lay
This Week's Verse: Isaiah 55:11, "It is the same with my word. I send it out, and it always produces fruit. It will accomplish all I want it to, and it will prosper everywhere I send it." (NLT)
Devotion:
In the past week alone we've experienced some pretty varied weather. From below freezing temperatures and wind-blown snow to a balmy 50 degrees and thunderstorms strong enough to knock out power for hours, we've seen the gamut.
In Isaiah 55:10, the verse immediately preceding this week's verse, the Lord says, "The rain and snow come down from the heavens and stay on the ground to water the earth. They cause the grain to grow, producing seed for the farmer and bread for the hungry." He then goes on to explain that His Word works the same way.
But sometimes the snow can throw up a caution flag and cause us to seek a different route. Or maybe give up and stay out of the rat-race altogether. Does the Word ever do that to you?
Sometimes the rain is so fierce and unrelenting that it breaks weak objects and seeps through the tiniest of holes and crevices. Does the Word ever do that to you?
Yes? But then sometimes--those blessed other times--the snow, so pure and white, falls gently and peacefully, insulating the earth and quieting the noise in a peaceful, cottony silence. Does the Word ever do that to you?
And sometimes the rain is steady and soft, offering blessed refreshment and cleansing to a parched and dusty land. Does the Word ever do that to you?
The Word IS like the snow and rain. And no matter what the conditions are when it comes, we can always rest assured that God promises it will accomplish all He wants it to each and every time He sends it out.
Power Verses:
Isaiah 55:11, "So shall My word be that goes forth from My mouth; It shall not return to Me void, But it shall accomplish what I please, And it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it."(NKJV)
James 1:18, "In the exercise of His will He brought us forth by the word of truth, so that we would be a kind of first fruits among His creatures."(NASB)
This Week's Verse: Isaiah 55:11, "It is the same with my word. I send it out, and it always produces fruit. It will accomplish all I want it to, and it will prosper everywhere I send it." (NLT)
Devotion:
In the past week alone we've experienced some pretty varied weather. From below freezing temperatures and wind-blown snow to a balmy 50 degrees and thunderstorms strong enough to knock out power for hours, we've seen the gamut.
In Isaiah 55:10, the verse immediately preceding this week's verse, the Lord says, "The rain and snow come down from the heavens and stay on the ground to water the earth. They cause the grain to grow, producing seed for the farmer and bread for the hungry." He then goes on to explain that His Word works the same way.
But sometimes the snow can throw up a caution flag and cause us to seek a different route. Or maybe give up and stay out of the rat-race altogether. Does the Word ever do that to you?
Sometimes the rain is so fierce and unrelenting that it breaks weak objects and seeps through the tiniest of holes and crevices. Does the Word ever do that to you?
Yes? But then sometimes--those blessed other times--the snow, so pure and white, falls gently and peacefully, insulating the earth and quieting the noise in a peaceful, cottony silence. Does the Word ever do that to you?
And sometimes the rain is steady and soft, offering blessed refreshment and cleansing to a parched and dusty land. Does the Word ever do that to you?
The Word IS like the snow and rain. And no matter what the conditions are when it comes, we can always rest assured that God promises it will accomplish all He wants it to each and every time He sends it out.
Father, reading Your Word, speaking Your Word, hiding Your Word in our hearts--all of these are ways Your seed is planted. In us, through us, may Your will be done through the beautiful mystery and power of Your Word as You send it out.
Application: To fully rejoice in the power of God's Word, continue reading in Isaiah 55. Read verses 12 and 13 to see the awesome promises resulting from the sending forth of the Word. Claim them in Jesus' Name.Power Verses:
Isaiah 55:11, "So shall My word be that goes forth from My mouth; It shall not return to Me void, But it shall accomplish what I please, And it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it."(NKJV)
James 1:18, "In the exercise of His will He brought us forth by the word of truth, so that we would be a kind of first fruits among His creatures."(NASB)
Friday, January 22, 2010
No More Bickering
by Kathy Lay
This Week's Verse: 1 Peter 4:8,"Most important of all, continue to show deep love for each other, for love covers a multitude of sins." (NLT)
Devotion:
Bickering. And more bickering. Most of the time my three kiddos get along pretty well. They invent games together, ask for permission before entering each others’ bedrooms, and share their things. But lately—I don’t know if it’s winter and cabin fever, or what—the bickering has escalated.
And consequently, so has my temper a few times.
It drives me absolutely nuts to hear the smart-aleck jabs, one-upmanship comparisons, and outright put-downs. My children are supposed to love one another and live in harmony. Right?
Maybe I need to lay down some new rules.
During the latest bickering session when I was just about ready to start pulling out hair (I won't say whether it was mine or theirs!) I was made vividly aware of the fact that my Heavenly Father knew exactly how I felt!
It struck me that in the Old Testament--under the law--God's anger burned against Israel when they were unfaithful to Him. Consequently, under the new covenant, the greatest commandment is to love the Lord with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength.
Also under the law, God was appalled at how his children were treating each other. But now, under grace, the second greatest commandment is to love others as ourselves.
Not necessarily "new" rules, as the original ten commandments still apply, but more of a shift in perspective. Instead of volumes of "do this; don't do that" we are now told to love above all else. Why?
Because love covers a multitude of sins.
I know my kids love each other deep down, but showing it at all times is a constant battle of the flesh. It is for most of us. But every little victorious showing of love covers a sin we might otherwise have committed.
That's why oftentimes when the kids have been ugly to each other, Shane and I will have them lock eyes, apologize, and hug. The actions of love--even if they don't feel it right away--will usually result in the feeling later. And oh yeah, lots of giggles.
As God's children, we have to stop the bickering, the one-upmanship comparisons, and the put-downs. By loving instead, we're covering a multitude of sins. Thank you, Jesus, for doing it first.
Lord, when we feel like complaining and arguing, when we want to take sides and tear others down, fill us with your love instead. Help us to show it and eventually feel it. Use it to cover sins, Jesus, in Your Name.
Application:
Develop a plan for the next time (and you know it's coming!) you're around or being pulled into an argument. How can you show love to diffuse sin?
Power Verses:
Phillipians 3:15-16, "All of us who are mature should take such a view of things. And if on some point you think differently, that too God will make clear to you. Only let us live up to what we have already attained."(NIV)
Phillipians 2:14-15, "Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe."(NIV)
This Week's Verse: 1 Peter 4:8,"Most important of all, continue to show deep love for each other, for love covers a multitude of sins." (NLT)
Devotion:
Bickering. And more bickering. Most of the time my three kiddos get along pretty well. They invent games together, ask for permission before entering each others’ bedrooms, and share their things. But lately—I don’t know if it’s winter and cabin fever, or what—the bickering has escalated.
And consequently, so has my temper a few times.
It drives me absolutely nuts to hear the smart-aleck jabs, one-upmanship comparisons, and outright put-downs. My children are supposed to love one another and live in harmony. Right?
Maybe I need to lay down some new rules.
During the latest bickering session when I was just about ready to start pulling out hair (I won't say whether it was mine or theirs!) I was made vividly aware of the fact that my Heavenly Father knew exactly how I felt!
It struck me that in the Old Testament--under the law--God's anger burned against Israel when they were unfaithful to Him. Consequently, under the new covenant, the greatest commandment is to love the Lord with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength.
Also under the law, God was appalled at how his children were treating each other. But now, under grace, the second greatest commandment is to love others as ourselves.
Not necessarily "new" rules, as the original ten commandments still apply, but more of a shift in perspective. Instead of volumes of "do this; don't do that" we are now told to love above all else. Why?
Because love covers a multitude of sins.
I know my kids love each other deep down, but showing it at all times is a constant battle of the flesh. It is for most of us. But every little victorious showing of love covers a sin we might otherwise have committed.
That's why oftentimes when the kids have been ugly to each other, Shane and I will have them lock eyes, apologize, and hug. The actions of love--even if they don't feel it right away--will usually result in the feeling later. And oh yeah, lots of giggles.
As God's children, we have to stop the bickering, the one-upmanship comparisons, and the put-downs. By loving instead, we're covering a multitude of sins. Thank you, Jesus, for doing it first.
Lord, when we feel like complaining and arguing, when we want to take sides and tear others down, fill us with your love instead. Help us to show it and eventually feel it. Use it to cover sins, Jesus, in Your Name.
Application:
Develop a plan for the next time (and you know it's coming!) you're around or being pulled into an argument. How can you show love to diffuse sin?
Power Verses:
Phillipians 3:15-16, "All of us who are mature should take such a view of things. And if on some point you think differently, that too God will make clear to you. Only let us live up to what we have already attained."(NIV)
Phillipians 2:14-15, "Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe."(NIV)
Friday, January 8, 2010
I Know the Man
by Kathy Lay
This Week's Verse: 2 Corinthians 5:16, "So we have stopped evaluating others from a human point of view. At one time we thought of Christ merely from a human point of view. How differently we know him now!" (NLT)
Devotion:
A friend of mine had a conversation with a young man who recently gave his life to the Lord. Her eyes sparkled as she told me about his transformation and involvement in church activities.
Apparently, he watches The Passion of the Christ from time to time. My friend told him that she doesn't want to see it again because of the brutality and blood. Then the young man said something like this: "Yeah, the first time I watched it was with my parents and they just wept. I didn't get why at the time--I mean it was definitely brutal--but I didn't understand why they were so moved. But now when I watch it, I know why: I know the man now."
I know the man now.
What powerful words. I love the "now" part, as in that was then; this is now. He once was lost, but now he's found. Things are different now that he knows Christ personally.
Isn't it wonderful to see our own then and now's? To look back and see where you were when Jesus first caught your heart and compare it to where you are now in your relationship with him? Have certain viewpoints about this man, this Jesus, changed because He's personally shown you aspects of Himself through your adventure together?
There was a time when we just didn't get it, but now--well, now, we know the man. And that makes all the difference.
Father, we praise you for the relationship you make possible through Jesus. He's the way to You, He's the truth, and He's the life. Thank you for drawing us to You through him and that we can say with confidence that we know the Man now.
Application:
Think of all of the ways that Jesus has made Himself known to you. In what ways can you pursue knowing Him more? If you don't know the man and want to, click here.
Power Verses:
2 Peter 1:8, "The more you grow like this, the more productive and useful you will be in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ."(NLT)
John 17:3, "And this is the way to have eternal life—to know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, the one you sent to earth" (NLT).
This Week's Verse: 2 Corinthians 5:16, "So we have stopped evaluating others from a human point of view. At one time we thought of Christ merely from a human point of view. How differently we know him now!" (NLT)
Devotion:
A friend of mine had a conversation with a young man who recently gave his life to the Lord. Her eyes sparkled as she told me about his transformation and involvement in church activities.
Apparently, he watches The Passion of the Christ from time to time. My friend told him that she doesn't want to see it again because of the brutality and blood. Then the young man said something like this: "Yeah, the first time I watched it was with my parents and they just wept. I didn't get why at the time--I mean it was definitely brutal--but I didn't understand why they were so moved. But now when I watch it, I know why: I know the man now."
I know the man now.
What powerful words. I love the "now" part, as in that was then; this is now. He once was lost, but now he's found. Things are different now that he knows Christ personally.
Isn't it wonderful to see our own then and now's? To look back and see where you were when Jesus first caught your heart and compare it to where you are now in your relationship with him? Have certain viewpoints about this man, this Jesus, changed because He's personally shown you aspects of Himself through your adventure together?
There was a time when we just didn't get it, but now--well, now, we know the man. And that makes all the difference.
Father, we praise you for the relationship you make possible through Jesus. He's the way to You, He's the truth, and He's the life. Thank you for drawing us to You through him and that we can say with confidence that we know the Man now.
Application:
Think of all of the ways that Jesus has made Himself known to you. In what ways can you pursue knowing Him more? If you don't know the man and want to, click here.
Power Verses:
2 Peter 1:8, "The more you grow like this, the more productive and useful you will be in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ."(NLT)
John 17:3, "And this is the way to have eternal life—to know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, the one you sent to earth" (NLT).
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