13 But encourage one another day after day, as long as it is still called "Today," so that none of you will be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin.
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It is an excellent reminder that we need to be encouraging each other. We have so many opportunities each day to build up or tear down. I don't think that I take these opportunities often enough to use them to encourage.
Lord, help me to build up whenever possible. Help me to encourage especially my fellow believers to be running toward you and to be shining stars in this dark world.
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Hebrews 2- Help for the Tempted
17 Therefore, He had to be made like His brethren in all things, so that He might become a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people.
18 For since He Himself was tempted in that which He has suffered, He is able to come to the aid of those who are tempted..
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What an Amazing God we serve! He allowed His Son to be tempted while on earth as a man for the express purpose of identification. Not only can we, as believers, identify with the temptation of Christ but because of His perfect reaction to temptation we know He is God.
This verse will be very useful for me while I go through work this week and next. Lord help me to seek you in thought and deed every minute of the day. Help me to remember that you are still on the throne and in control of every circumstance You throw my way!
18 For since He Himself was tempted in that which He has suffered, He is able to come to the aid of those who are tempted..
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What an Amazing God we serve! He allowed His Son to be tempted while on earth as a man for the express purpose of identification. Not only can we, as believers, identify with the temptation of Christ but because of His perfect reaction to temptation we know He is God.
This verse will be very useful for me while I go through work this week and next. Lord help me to seek you in thought and deed every minute of the day. Help me to remember that you are still on the throne and in control of every circumstance You throw my way!
Monday, June 28, 2010
Hebrews 1- LOVE RIGHTEOUSNESS AND HATE LAWLESSNESS
8 But of the Son He says,
"YOUR THRONE, O GOD, IS FOREVER AND EVER,
AND THE RIGHTEOUS SCEPTER IS THE SCEPTER OF HIS KINGDOM.
9 "YOU HAVE LOVED RIGHTEOUSNESS AND HATED LAWLESSNESS;
THEREFORE GOD, YOUR GOD, HAS ANOINTED YOU
WITH THE OIL OF GLADNESS ABOVE YOUR COMPANIONS."
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Again and again we see the double action to that is directly linked to Godliness. We must flee from sin, and pursue Christ.
Lord help me to constantly be pursuing You so that fleeing from sin is my first response, every time.
"YOUR THRONE, O GOD, IS FOREVER AND EVER,
AND THE RIGHTEOUS SCEPTER IS THE SCEPTER OF HIS KINGDOM.
9 "YOU HAVE LOVED RIGHTEOUSNESS AND HATED LAWLESSNESS;
THEREFORE GOD, YOUR GOD, HAS ANOINTED YOU
WITH THE OIL OF GLADNESS ABOVE YOUR COMPANIONS."
Read More
Again and again we see the double action to that is directly linked to Godliness. We must flee from sin, and pursue Christ.
Lord help me to constantly be pursuing You so that fleeing from sin is my first response, every time.
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Titus 2- Zealous for good deeds
11 For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all men,
12 instructing us to deny ungodliness and worldly desires and to live sensibly, righteously and godly in the present age,
13 looking for the blessed hope and the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Christ Jesus,
14 who gave Himself for us to redeem us from every lawless deed, and to purify for Himself a people for His own possession, zealous for good deeds.
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What a great reminder. Over and over again we see the same message, Deny Ungodliness but Be Zealous for Good Deeds. It is stated repeatedly with slightly different verbage. Why? Because even though we know (head knowledge) that we should run from evil and sprint toward our Savior, we so often don't.
12 instructing us to deny ungodliness and worldly desires and to live sensibly, righteously and godly in the present age,
13 looking for the blessed hope and the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Christ Jesus,
14 who gave Himself for us to redeem us from every lawless deed, and to purify for Himself a people for His own possession, zealous for good deeds.
Read More
What a great reminder. Over and over again we see the same message, Deny Ungodliness but Be Zealous for Good Deeds. It is stated repeatedly with slightly different verbage. Why? Because even though we know (head knowledge) that we should run from evil and sprint toward our Savior, we so often don't.
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Titus 1- All Things are Pure
13 This testimony is true. For this reason reprove them severely so that they may be sound in the faith,
14 not paying attention to Jewish myths and commandments of men who turn away from the truth.
15 To the pure, all things are pure; but to those who are defiled and unbelieving, nothing is pure, but both their mind and their conscience are defiled.
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As I meditate on this verse I am more than ever encouraged to have a hard conversation. My wife and I have been praying about a situation where this verse is very applicable. Over and over the Scriptures (especially the New Testament) are filled with exhortation to be holy, pure, righteous. We are called by God to set our eyes, minds and hearts on Christ to get through this life on earth. The focus is always on avoiding evil but setting our course for Christ.
What I see here is another instance where Believers are encouraged act purely...but all the "questionable" activities are not going to defile you; it will be your mind that tears you away from Christ. This is no excuse to participate in any activity that is clearly spelled out as sinful in Scripture or even things that you yourself have been convicted about. "If he knows to do right, but does not do it, to him it is sin"!
However, unless we are not daily in The Word and in Prayer, we cannot accidentally fall into evil. We can be negligent in our belief and relationship with Christ, which will cause temptation, but no accidental demon possession. Christ is more powerful than Satan. I know the end of the story, Christ is victorious and Satan is in chains forever!
14 not paying attention to Jewish myths and commandments of men who turn away from the truth.
15 To the pure, all things are pure; but to those who are defiled and unbelieving, nothing is pure, but both their mind and their conscience are defiled.
Read More
As I meditate on this verse I am more than ever encouraged to have a hard conversation. My wife and I have been praying about a situation where this verse is very applicable. Over and over the Scriptures (especially the New Testament) are filled with exhortation to be holy, pure, righteous. We are called by God to set our eyes, minds and hearts on Christ to get through this life on earth. The focus is always on avoiding evil but setting our course for Christ.
What I see here is another instance where Believers are encouraged act purely...but all the "questionable" activities are not going to defile you; it will be your mind that tears you away from Christ. This is no excuse to participate in any activity that is clearly spelled out as sinful in Scripture or even things that you yourself have been convicted about. "If he knows to do right, but does not do it, to him it is sin"!
However, unless we are not daily in The Word and in Prayer, we cannot accidentally fall into evil. We can be negligent in our belief and relationship with Christ, which will cause temptation, but no accidental demon possession. Christ is more powerful than Satan. I know the end of the story, Christ is victorious and Satan is in chains forever!
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
II Timothy 4- Fulfill Your Ministry
2 preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort, with great patience and instruction.
3 For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but wanting to have their ears tickled, they will accumulate for themselves teachers in accordance to their own desires,
4 and will turn away their ears from the truth and will turn aside to myths.
5 But you, be sober in all things, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.
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one of Paul's last statements to Timothy was to "fulfill your ministry". We are each gifted with something and are all called to serve the Body of Christ. I think Paul was reminding Timothy that no mater how difficult situations were or would become we still have a calling.
For this day and age, I think it may be better interpreted, regardless of how busy you are, we have a calling that we need to be actively engaged in.
3 For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but wanting to have their ears tickled, they will accumulate for themselves teachers in accordance to their own desires,
4 and will turn away their ears from the truth and will turn aside to myths.
5 But you, be sober in all things, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.
Read More
one of Paul's last statements to Timothy was to "fulfill your ministry". We are each gifted with something and are all called to serve the Body of Christ. I think Paul was reminding Timothy that no mater how difficult situations were or would become we still have a calling.
For this day and age, I think it may be better interpreted, regardless of how busy you are, we have a calling that we need to be actively engaged in.
Monday, June 14, 2010
II Timothy 3- Profit of Scripture
16 All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness;
17so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work.
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I was encouraged this morning by this second verse (v17). Many times I have heard messages or exhortation on verse 16, but I was reminded that the second verse holds the action. It is our calling, what we need to do with the Knowledge and Change God has performed in us, through Scripture.
"So that the man of God may be adequate" [...complete... competent... thoroughly] "equipped for every good work."
What a reminder of how important the Word of God is. This is our training. This is how we are disciplined in living. I pray that God would soften my heart to hear what He is teaching me each day, so that I can competently, thoroughly, completely and adequately do His will.
17so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work.
Read More
I was encouraged this morning by this second verse (v17). Many times I have heard messages or exhortation on verse 16, but I was reminded that the second verse holds the action. It is our calling, what we need to do with the Knowledge and Change God has performed in us, through Scripture.
"So that the man of God may be adequate" [...complete... competent... thoroughly] "equipped for every good work."
What a reminder of how important the Word of God is. This is our training. This is how we are disciplined in living. I pray that God would soften my heart to hear what He is teaching me each day, so that I can competently, thoroughly, completely and adequately do His will.
Friday, June 11, 2010
21 Therefore, if anyone cleanses himself from these things, he will be a vessel for honor, sanctified, useful to the Master, prepared for every good work.
22 Now flee from youthful lusts and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart.
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These letters from Paul are chock full of incredible short reminders to live a Godly life. But something that He continues to point out is to "Flee [evil]...and Pursue righteousness". It is not just the removing yourself from the bad situations, but we must run to God, His Word and fall on our knees!
Lord, help me to pursue YOU!
22 Now flee from youthful lusts and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart.
Read More
These letters from Paul are chock full of incredible short reminders to live a Godly life. But something that He continues to point out is to "Flee [evil]...and Pursue righteousness". It is not just the removing yourself from the bad situations, but we must run to God, His Word and fall on our knees!
Lord, help me to pursue YOU!
Thursday, June 10, 2010
II Timothy 1- Power, Love & Discipline
6 For this reason I remind you to kindle afresh the gift of God which is in you through the laying on of my hands.
7 For God has not given us a spirit of timidity, but of power and love and discipline.
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7 For God has not given us a spirit of timidity, but of power and love and discipline.
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Wednesday, June 9, 2010
I Timothy 6- Flee from the things of this world
10 For the love of money is a root of all sorts of evil, and some by longing for it have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.
11 But flee from these things, you man of God, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, perseverance and gentleness.
12 Fight the good fight of faith; take hold of the eternal life to which you were called, and you made the good confession in the presence of many witnesses.
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I love vs 11... "Flee from these things,...and pursue... What a great reminder that it is not only shunning the evil things of this world but (and I think more importantly) pursue Christ, fight the fight, obey our calling! If we are busy doing these things we will supernaturally Hate Evil (Proverbs 8:13).
If we can focus on "righteousness, godliness, faith, love, perseverance and gentleness" fleeing from evil things of this world will be our first instinct!
Lord, help me to Hate Evil and Pursue Christ!
11 But flee from these things, you man of God, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, perseverance and gentleness.
12 Fight the good fight of faith; take hold of the eternal life to which you were called, and you made the good confession in the presence of many witnesses.
Read More
I love vs 11... "Flee from these things,...and pursue... What a great reminder that it is not only shunning the evil things of this world but (and I think more importantly) pursue Christ, fight the fight, obey our calling! If we are busy doing these things we will supernaturally Hate Evil (Proverbs 8:13).
If we can focus on "righteousness, godliness, faith, love, perseverance and gentleness" fleeing from evil things of this world will be our first instinct!
Lord, help me to Hate Evil and Pursue Christ!
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
I Timothy 5- How to Encourage Others Toward Godliness
1 Do not sharply rebuke an older man, but rather appeal to him as a father, to the younger men as brothers,
2 the older women as mothers, and the younger women as sisters, in all purity.
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This verse comes at perfect timing in life (as they often do, it is as if God were in control of everything!) as I am considering how to point out some error in a fellow believers thinking.
Lord help me to be humble and speak only what You would have me...
2 the older women as mothers, and the younger women as sisters, in all purity.
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This verse comes at perfect timing in life (as they often do, it is as if God were in control of everything!) as I am considering how to point out some error in a fellow believers thinking.
Lord help me to be humble and speak only what You would have me...
Monday, June 7, 2010
I Timothy 4- Be an Example
12 Let no one look down on your youthfulness, but rather in speech, conduct, love, faith and purity, show yourself an example of those who believe.
13 Until I come, give attention to the public reading of Scripture, to exhortation and teaching.
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What an amazing section of Scripture... When I was younger I would look a the first part of this verse for encouragement, now that I am not so insecure about my age I love the content of the rest of the verses as well.
Help me to be an example for those around me. Whether that is at home, work or in the community. I want my actions, speech and thoughts to exemplify Christ wherever I go. This morning I also noticed the internal portion of this verse, "love, faith and purity" all all internal. Only Christ really knows what is happening in my heart. Help me to serve Christ with all of my actions and thoughts!
13 Until I come, give attention to the public reading of Scripture, to exhortation and teaching.
Read More
What an amazing section of Scripture... When I was younger I would look a the first part of this verse for encouragement, now that I am not so insecure about my age I love the content of the rest of the verses as well.
Help me to be an example for those around me. Whether that is at home, work or in the community. I want my actions, speech and thoughts to exemplify Christ wherever I go. This morning I also noticed the internal portion of this verse, "love, faith and purity" all all internal. Only Christ really knows what is happening in my heart. Help me to serve Christ with all of my actions and thoughts!
Thursday, June 3, 2010
I Timothy 2- Authority and the Gospel
1 First of all, then, I urge that entreaties and prayers, petitions and thanksgivings, be made on behalf of all men,
2 for kings and all who are in authority, so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity.
3 This is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior,
4 who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.
5 For there is one God, and one mediator also between God and men, the man Christ Jesus,
6 who gave Himself as a ransom for all, the testimony given at the proper time.
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I was convicted about this passage... At times I think less than Highly about those in authority, from everyday figures to our President. But what I am missing is that God has placed them in authority, it was by His Power that they are over me and I in a submissive position.
After reminding us to pray for our leaders, Paul tells us that it is pleasing to God. Then interestingly, Paul threw in the gospel. Not only are we to respect, pray for and be THANKFUL for those in authority, we see that God desires that all come to a saving knowledge of Christ's work.
Lord, give our leaders wisdom in their work today. I pray that You would direct those around them to be a light for You, so that one day You may take hold of their hearts and draw them to Yourself!
Thank You for my salvation!
2 for kings and all who are in authority, so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity.
3 This is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior,
4 who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.
5 For there is one God, and one mediator also between God and men, the man Christ Jesus,
6 who gave Himself as a ransom for all, the testimony given at the proper time.
Read More
I was convicted about this passage... At times I think less than Highly about those in authority, from everyday figures to our President. But what I am missing is that God has placed them in authority, it was by His Power that they are over me and I in a submissive position.
After reminding us to pray for our leaders, Paul tells us that it is pleasing to God. Then interestingly, Paul threw in the gospel. Not only are we to respect, pray for and be THANKFUL for those in authority, we see that God desires that all come to a saving knowledge of Christ's work.
Lord, give our leaders wisdom in their work today. I pray that You would direct those around them to be a light for You, so that one day You may take hold of their hearts and draw them to Yourself!
Thank You for my salvation!
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
I Timothy 1- More than enough
14 The grace of our Lord was poured out on me abundantly, along with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus.
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I am so thankful that Christ selected me. This verse struck a chord with me this morning... God poured out His grace on me ABUNDANTLY!!! That mean far more than what was required just to save me, just to get me into Heaven, just to wash away my sin, but FAR MORE, enough to fill me up and run over spilling into other peoples lives.
Thank You Lord, for saving my soul, and thank You for allowing my life to impact others and drive them to You!
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I am so thankful that Christ selected me. This verse struck a chord with me this morning... God poured out His grace on me ABUNDANTLY!!! That mean far more than what was required just to save me, just to get me into Heaven, just to wash away my sin, but FAR MORE, enough to fill me up and run over spilling into other peoples lives.
Thank You Lord, for saving my soul, and thank You for allowing my life to impact others and drive them to You!
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