II Timothy 2 There appears to have been a great struggle in the early church.. a struggle with "worldly and empty chatter;".. with false teachings.. with empty and useless "speculations".. with foolish quarrels. Paul calls Timothy to be diligent.. " to present yourself approved to God as a workman.. handling accurately the word of truth."
This was not an easy task for Timothy . He had to be willing to "suffer hardship's" just like Paul... as a faithful soldier of Christ Jesus. As Christ's soldier, he was to work to please Him, not the world. As an athlete, Paul says, works for the goal of winning the prize.. Christ's followers will compete according to the rules, for He calls us to walk in Truth. As a farmer works hard so that he can partake of his crops, a follower of Jesus will be diligent in living according to the truth, so he can receive all that Christ promises . To go astray from the truth of the gospel, is to leave the firm foundation.. to fall into Satan's hands once again.
The truth, Paul says, is that Jesus died and we died with Him. Jesus rose, and we rise with Him.
We will endure in Him and reign with Him.
But if we deny Him, He will deny us.
He is faithful, even when we are not.
"The Lord knows those who are His". We can trust Him fully. So, we must leave all wickedness behind and "pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, with those who call upon the Lord from a pure heart."
Our lives reveal what our hearts hold on to... so when we hold on to the Truth.. we can "be kind to all, able to teach, patient when wronged, with gentleness correcting this who are in opposition, if perhaps God may grant them repentance leading to the knowledge of the truth.... "
Father in heaven, You are the only True God and You have graciously given us the Word of Truth. Let us know Your Word clearly, diligently studying and meditating on the Truth, rebuking all falsehoods, distractions, and wickedness. Fix our eyes on Your Beloved Son, Jesus Christ who is the Savior, the Living Word, the One who died for us and in whom we have True life. Rekindle the fire of faith in each of us today I pray. Amen.
Thursday, January 31, 2019
Wednesday, January 30, 2019
II Timothy 1 This is Paul's last letter.. and he sends it to Timothy, whom he calls "my beloved son".
Paul leaves Timothy with a "clear conscience" and a thankful heart. He longs to see Timothy again, but if that does not happen, he wants to leave him with words to encourage and build him up in faith.
Paul reminds Timothy of the "sincere faith" of his grandmother and mother.. and that he also has in him.
Paul reminds Timothy that he was given a "gift of God", and that he needs to keep it kindled afresh... stir up the fire.. the King James version says. Keep the fire.. the gift of God.. alive and burning!
Paul reminds Timothy that the Spirit of God is not a "spirit of timidity" or fear. The Spirit given to us is one of "power and love and discipline... " ( self-control).
"Therefore" Paul reminds Timothy, " do not be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord or of me..."
Suffering for the gospel is not something to be afraid of or ashamed of, instead.. it is "a holy calling".
It is part of God's "own purpose and grace.. which has been granted us in Christ Jesus from all eternity."
Paul reminds Timothy that Jesus Christ "abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel".. and it is for this reason he is suffering.. " but, I am not ashamed; for I know whom I have believed and I am convinced that He is able to guard what I have entrusted to Him until that day. "
This strong and clear testimony from Paul, in prison, facing a death sentence.. reminds Timothy and us, that no matter what circumstances we face.. we can remain steadfast in faith, with peace in our hearts, knowing that God has us in His Hands and will fulfill His good and perfect will in us.
Two final reminders in this chapter... "Retain the standard of sound words.. in the faith and love which are in Christ Jesus". And, " Guard, through the Holy Spirit who dwells in us, the treasure which has been entrusted to you. " Both of these point to how vital it is that we base our lives on the Truth of God's Word.. which is the "sword of the Spirit".
By the power of the Holy Spirit who manifests Himself in us, we stand firmly and with clear consciences on the Truth of God's Word, in faith and in love, through the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Father in heaven, may we stir up the flame of faith and love in our own lives.. remembering that You are able to keep us and live in us, and use us for Your purposes.... until that day when we will finally be made whole in Christ Jesus our Lord. Have Your own way in us today I pray, in Jesus' name . amen.
Paul leaves Timothy with a "clear conscience" and a thankful heart. He longs to see Timothy again, but if that does not happen, he wants to leave him with words to encourage and build him up in faith.
Paul reminds Timothy of the "sincere faith" of his grandmother and mother.. and that he also has in him.
Paul reminds Timothy that he was given a "gift of God", and that he needs to keep it kindled afresh... stir up the fire.. the King James version says. Keep the fire.. the gift of God.. alive and burning!
Paul reminds Timothy that the Spirit of God is not a "spirit of timidity" or fear. The Spirit given to us is one of "power and love and discipline... " ( self-control).
"Therefore" Paul reminds Timothy, " do not be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord or of me..."
Suffering for the gospel is not something to be afraid of or ashamed of, instead.. it is "a holy calling".
It is part of God's "own purpose and grace.. which has been granted us in Christ Jesus from all eternity."
Paul reminds Timothy that Jesus Christ "abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel".. and it is for this reason he is suffering.. " but, I am not ashamed; for I know whom I have believed and I am convinced that He is able to guard what I have entrusted to Him until that day. "
This strong and clear testimony from Paul, in prison, facing a death sentence.. reminds Timothy and us, that no matter what circumstances we face.. we can remain steadfast in faith, with peace in our hearts, knowing that God has us in His Hands and will fulfill His good and perfect will in us.
Two final reminders in this chapter... "Retain the standard of sound words.. in the faith and love which are in Christ Jesus". And, " Guard, through the Holy Spirit who dwells in us, the treasure which has been entrusted to you. " Both of these point to how vital it is that we base our lives on the Truth of God's Word.. which is the "sword of the Spirit".
By the power of the Holy Spirit who manifests Himself in us, we stand firmly and with clear consciences on the Truth of God's Word, in faith and in love, through the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Father in heaven, may we stir up the flame of faith and love in our own lives.. remembering that You are able to keep us and live in us, and use us for Your purposes.... until that day when we will finally be made whole in Christ Jesus our Lord. Have Your own way in us today I pray, in Jesus' name . amen.
Tuesday, January 29, 2019
I Timothy 6 Paul instructs and encourages Timothy in this letter to "fight the good fight of faith"..
It is another way of saying.. walk in a manner worthy of our Lord's calling.
Every exhortation and command here unveils a clear picture of what that looks like...
v1 - treating others with honor.. "so that the name of God and our doctrine may not be spoken against."
v2 Serving fellow believers, even those who are masters, out of love and respect, not taking advantage of a position of brotherhood in Christ.
vs 6-8 Being content with what we have ... seeking godliness by walking in truth, not for worldly gain.
v9-10 Having a proper and godly view of money so that we don't fall into the temptation of loving money more than God.
v11 " But flee from these things, you man of God: and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, perseverance and gentleness."
v12-14 ".. take hold of the eternal life to which you were called... keeping the commandment without stain or reproach until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ."
v17-19 Fix your hope.. on God " who richly supplies us with all things to enjoy... do good.. be rich in good works .. be generous and ready to share.. storing up.. the treasure of a good foundation for the future... " Taking hold of "that which is life indeed."
v20 ".. guard what has been entrusted to you, avoiding worldly and empty chatter and the opposing arguments of what is falsely called 'knowledge '" .
Father in heaven, "blessed and only Sovereign, the King of kings and Lord of lords; who alone possesses immortality and dwells in unapproachable light; whom no man has seen or can see. To [You] be honor and eternal dominion ." It is to You that we come and bring our prayers and petitions, in faith, and in obedience. For we desire that Your good and perfect will be done in us, for apart from You we can do nothing. We fix our hope on You, our God and Master. May Your Holy Spirit fill us so that we can fight the good fight of faith, walking in a manner worthy of our calling by You into the Kingdom of the Beloved Son.. in righteousness, godliness, faith, love, perseverance and gentleness.. with contentment and grace. We choose to take hold of that which is true life.. eternal life, through the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ who gave Himself up for us. With all praise and thanksgiving we come before You now, in His name. Amen.
It is another way of saying.. walk in a manner worthy of our Lord's calling.
Every exhortation and command here unveils a clear picture of what that looks like...
v1 - treating others with honor.. "so that the name of God and our doctrine may not be spoken against."
v2 Serving fellow believers, even those who are masters, out of love and respect, not taking advantage of a position of brotherhood in Christ.
vs 6-8 Being content with what we have ... seeking godliness by walking in truth, not for worldly gain.
v9-10 Having a proper and godly view of money so that we don't fall into the temptation of loving money more than God.
v11 " But flee from these things, you man of God: and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, perseverance and gentleness."
v12-14 ".. take hold of the eternal life to which you were called... keeping the commandment without stain or reproach until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ."
v17-19 Fix your hope.. on God " who richly supplies us with all things to enjoy... do good.. be rich in good works .. be generous and ready to share.. storing up.. the treasure of a good foundation for the future... " Taking hold of "that which is life indeed."
v20 ".. guard what has been entrusted to you, avoiding worldly and empty chatter and the opposing arguments of what is falsely called 'knowledge '" .
Father in heaven, "blessed and only Sovereign, the King of kings and Lord of lords; who alone possesses immortality and dwells in unapproachable light; whom no man has seen or can see. To [You] be honor and eternal dominion ." It is to You that we come and bring our prayers and petitions, in faith, and in obedience. For we desire that Your good and perfect will be done in us, for apart from You we can do nothing. We fix our hope on You, our God and Master. May Your Holy Spirit fill us so that we can fight the good fight of faith, walking in a manner worthy of our calling by You into the Kingdom of the Beloved Son.. in righteousness, godliness, faith, love, perseverance and gentleness.. with contentment and grace. We choose to take hold of that which is true life.. eternal life, through the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ who gave Himself up for us. With all praise and thanksgiving we come before You now, in His name. Amen.
Monday, January 28, 2019
I Timothy 5
Timothy faced many challenges.. as most, if not all, pastors do as they seek to lead in their churches.
Paul gives some guidance as to how to handle a few of these challenges.
Verses 1-2 address the relationships between the pastor and his congregation - in essence, Paul advised Timothy to consider older men like he would his father, younger men like his brothers, older women like his mother and younger women like sisters. This close relationship was to be "in all purity"... respectful, loving, kind, and sacred.
Verses 3-16 address how to handle the needs of widows. There were some who were "widows indeed" .. they had no help and no hope outside of the church. They had been "left alone" and "fixed [their[ hope on God". She would continually pray, have a reputation for good works, and be "above reproach". These women would be put on "the list" and receive help from those in the church.
Other, younger widows, faced the temptation of wanting to find another husband. If they remarried and continued to do what is right, then that was very good. But, if they failed to live for the Lord.. either by giving into "sensual desires", gossiping, being a busy body, or otherwise wasting their lives... then they would not be eligible to receive help from the church.
In either situation, if the widow had family that could help, then they should receive help from them so that those who had no other help would be able to get the help they needed.
Verses 17-25 speak about other church leaders. If they did well, they were to be honored and paid. If they were accused of wrong doing, that had to be properly attested to with more than one witness.
If they were sinning, then a public rebuke could be necessary.
A leader like Timothy needs to be impartial. They need to be careful to appoint mature believers into places of responsibility. They need to be aware that a sinful lifestyle is not always evident up front.. but that it will not remain "concealed".
All of these things may not apply to modern day churches. I don't know if any churches have a widow's list... But, there is a reason this letter has been given to us... We need to pray for our pastors and leaders in our churches.. that they might wisdom in dealing with the people in their congregations. Many come to churches with great needs.... and some come just to see what they can get... Some come and try to gain a position of power so that they can take from the church.. But, some come to serve and glorify the Lord. There is a time and place for discernment and even judgement as a church's pastor. May God give him great wisdom and insight for the work that he is called to do.
Father in heaven, I pray today for the pastors of my church and for those in this community. May they seek You always, be filled with Your Spirit and faithful in their walk with You. I pray for our church family.. for those who are struggling with physical, emotional, financial, and spiritual challenges. Grant our pastors the strength to come alongside these ones with grace and truth. Keep them from partiality and from pride. I ask this in Jesus' name. Amen.
Timothy faced many challenges.. as most, if not all, pastors do as they seek to lead in their churches.
Paul gives some guidance as to how to handle a few of these challenges.
Verses 1-2 address the relationships between the pastor and his congregation - in essence, Paul advised Timothy to consider older men like he would his father, younger men like his brothers, older women like his mother and younger women like sisters. This close relationship was to be "in all purity"... respectful, loving, kind, and sacred.
Verses 3-16 address how to handle the needs of widows. There were some who were "widows indeed" .. they had no help and no hope outside of the church. They had been "left alone" and "fixed [their[ hope on God". She would continually pray, have a reputation for good works, and be "above reproach". These women would be put on "the list" and receive help from those in the church.
Other, younger widows, faced the temptation of wanting to find another husband. If they remarried and continued to do what is right, then that was very good. But, if they failed to live for the Lord.. either by giving into "sensual desires", gossiping, being a busy body, or otherwise wasting their lives... then they would not be eligible to receive help from the church.
In either situation, if the widow had family that could help, then they should receive help from them so that those who had no other help would be able to get the help they needed.
Verses 17-25 speak about other church leaders. If they did well, they were to be honored and paid. If they were accused of wrong doing, that had to be properly attested to with more than one witness.
If they were sinning, then a public rebuke could be necessary.
A leader like Timothy needs to be impartial. They need to be careful to appoint mature believers into places of responsibility. They need to be aware that a sinful lifestyle is not always evident up front.. but that it will not remain "concealed".
All of these things may not apply to modern day churches. I don't know if any churches have a widow's list... But, there is a reason this letter has been given to us... We need to pray for our pastors and leaders in our churches.. that they might wisdom in dealing with the people in their congregations. Many come to churches with great needs.... and some come just to see what they can get... Some come and try to gain a position of power so that they can take from the church.. But, some come to serve and glorify the Lord. There is a time and place for discernment and even judgement as a church's pastor. May God give him great wisdom and insight for the work that he is called to do.
Father in heaven, I pray today for the pastors of my church and for those in this community. May they seek You always, be filled with Your Spirit and faithful in their walk with You. I pray for our church family.. for those who are struggling with physical, emotional, financial, and spiritual challenges. Grant our pastors the strength to come alongside these ones with grace and truth. Keep them from partiality and from pride. I ask this in Jesus' name. Amen.
Friday, January 25, 2019
II Timothy 4 Paul reminds us once again that we are in great need of God's Truth.. " constantly nourished on the words of the faith and of the sound doctrine.. "
Our culture, like that of the ancient world where Timothy served, has infiltrated the "church" with :
"deceitful spirits"
"doctrines of demons"
"hypocrisy of liars"
"worldly fables"
They may call themselves "Christians", but they do not live according to His Word, putting faith in works or falsehoods. The only way that we can truly live for Christ is to be CONSTANTLY nourished in the Truth..
Paul gives us some important truths here that help us to keep on the right path.
Verses 3-5 We who " believe and know the truth" need to remember that God has created all things. "For everything created by God is good and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with gratitude; for it is sanctified by means of the word of God and prayer." We must not allow ourselves to be deceived by those who preach salvation by works.. abstaining from certain things, practicing self-righteous rituals... etc. God is our Creator and our Provider. We receive everything from His hand and we give thanks. We acknowledge our absolute dependence on Him when we pray. Jesus teaches us to say " Give us this day our daily bread".... a reminder that every day.. EVERY DAY.. He is our source of life.
Verses 6-10 Paul contrasts the dependence of false doctrines on "bodily discipline" with the truth that what we really must pay attention to is "discipline.. for the purpose of godliness". Spiritual discipline is "profitable for all things, since it holds promise for this present life and also the life to come." This is what we "labor and strive" for, Paul teaches.. "because we have fixed our hope on the living God, who is the Savior of all men, especially believers. "
Verses 11-16 Paul gives Timothy ( and us) direction to "prescribe and teach these things."
Living a life as an "example of those who believe" - with spiritual discipline.. means our "speech, conduct, love, faith and purity" will reflect that of Christ, who is our life. It is when we stay in His Word and are filled with His Spirit that He will be seen in us. Paul uses some strong words to emphasize this:
".. give attention.. " v13
".. do not neglect.." v14
".. Take pains with... " v15
".. be absorbed in.. " v15
".. pay close attention to.. v16
".. persevere in.. " v16
In other words.. we must intentionally and diligently keep abiding in Christ and in His Word for our own salvation "and for those who hear" us, or see us....
Father in heaven, I hear You calling us deeper into this abiding relationship with Jesus. Help us to not only want to.. but to do it! Grant us strength by the power of Your Spirit to walk in a manner worthy of Your calling. Give us a hunger and thirst for Your Word and for Your righteousness. Let Jesus be magnified in us and through us as we yield our whole selves to be Your servants. We can do nothing, except what Jesus does in us.. and so we will cling to the True Vine and receive life from Him. May Your good and perfect will be done in me, in us today. We ask this in the Powerful, Beautiful Name of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Our culture, like that of the ancient world where Timothy served, has infiltrated the "church" with :
"deceitful spirits"
"doctrines of demons"
"hypocrisy of liars"
"worldly fables"
They may call themselves "Christians", but they do not live according to His Word, putting faith in works or falsehoods. The only way that we can truly live for Christ is to be CONSTANTLY nourished in the Truth..
Paul gives us some important truths here that help us to keep on the right path.
Verses 3-5 We who " believe and know the truth" need to remember that God has created all things. "For everything created by God is good and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with gratitude; for it is sanctified by means of the word of God and prayer." We must not allow ourselves to be deceived by those who preach salvation by works.. abstaining from certain things, practicing self-righteous rituals... etc. God is our Creator and our Provider. We receive everything from His hand and we give thanks. We acknowledge our absolute dependence on Him when we pray. Jesus teaches us to say " Give us this day our daily bread".... a reminder that every day.. EVERY DAY.. He is our source of life.
Verses 6-10 Paul contrasts the dependence of false doctrines on "bodily discipline" with the truth that what we really must pay attention to is "discipline.. for the purpose of godliness". Spiritual discipline is "profitable for all things, since it holds promise for this present life and also the life to come." This is what we "labor and strive" for, Paul teaches.. "because we have fixed our hope on the living God, who is the Savior of all men, especially believers. "
Verses 11-16 Paul gives Timothy ( and us) direction to "prescribe and teach these things."
Living a life as an "example of those who believe" - with spiritual discipline.. means our "speech, conduct, love, faith and purity" will reflect that of Christ, who is our life. It is when we stay in His Word and are filled with His Spirit that He will be seen in us. Paul uses some strong words to emphasize this:
".. give attention.. " v13
".. do not neglect.." v14
".. Take pains with... " v15
".. be absorbed in.. " v15
".. pay close attention to.. v16
".. persevere in.. " v16
In other words.. we must intentionally and diligently keep abiding in Christ and in His Word for our own salvation "and for those who hear" us, or see us....
Father in heaven, I hear You calling us deeper into this abiding relationship with Jesus. Help us to not only want to.. but to do it! Grant us strength by the power of Your Spirit to walk in a manner worthy of Your calling. Give us a hunger and thirst for Your Word and for Your righteousness. Let Jesus be magnified in us and through us as we yield our whole selves to be Your servants. We can do nothing, except what Jesus does in us.. and so we will cling to the True Vine and receive life from Him. May Your good and perfect will be done in me, in us today. We ask this in the Powerful, Beautiful Name of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Thursday, January 24, 2019
II Timothy 3 This chapter is a very practical guide for church leadership. Yet, these characteristics listed for overseers, deacons, and women, are exactly what Christ calls us all to have as we live by His Spirit and walk worthy of His calling.
Included here. we are called:
To be faithful spouses
To be temperate ( moderate, self-restrained)
To be prudent (having sound judgement and self-control)
To be respectable
To be hospitable
To be able to teach
To not be pugnacious( quarrelsome or combative) or drunkards
To be gentle
To be uncontentious
To be free from addictions and love of money
To be good parents
To be humble
To have a good reputation
To have dignity
To speak truthfully
To be beyond reproach
To be faithful
To have a clear conscience.. and "a great confidence in the faith that is in Christ Jesus."
Verse 16 "And by common confession great is the mystery of godliness:
He who was revealed in the flesh,
Was vindicated in the spirit,
Beheld by angels,
Proclaimed among the nations,
Believed on in the world,
Taken up in glory."
In other words, we need to be "exceptional in the ordinary" things of life, by letting go of.. dying to our old selfish lives.. and being alive in Christ alone for He is the "mystery of godliness"!
Heavenly Father and Lord Jesus, our Savior, we come before You to ask that once again You will fill us with Your Spirit so that we can walk a worthy walk, pleasing You in all aspects of our lives. May we honor You in our marriages and in our families. May we live in dignity and be beyond reproach in our daily lives, reflecting the character of Christ, who is our life. We pray this in the name of Jesus, according to Your Holy Word. Amen.
Included here. we are called:
To be faithful spouses
To be temperate ( moderate, self-restrained)
To be prudent (having sound judgement and self-control)
To be respectable
To be hospitable
To be able to teach
To not be pugnacious( quarrelsome or combative) or drunkards
To be gentle
To be uncontentious
To be free from addictions and love of money
To be good parents
To be humble
To have a good reputation
To have dignity
To speak truthfully
To be beyond reproach
To be faithful
To have a clear conscience.. and "a great confidence in the faith that is in Christ Jesus."
Verse 16 "And by common confession great is the mystery of godliness:
He who was revealed in the flesh,
Was vindicated in the spirit,
Beheld by angels,
Proclaimed among the nations,
Believed on in the world,
Taken up in glory."
In other words, we need to be "exceptional in the ordinary" things of life, by letting go of.. dying to our old selfish lives.. and being alive in Christ alone for He is the "mystery of godliness"!
Heavenly Father and Lord Jesus, our Savior, we come before You to ask that once again You will fill us with Your Spirit so that we can walk a worthy walk, pleasing You in all aspects of our lives. May we honor You in our marriages and in our families. May we live in dignity and be beyond reproach in our daily lives, reflecting the character of Christ, who is our life. We pray this in the name of Jesus, according to Your Holy Word. Amen.
Wednesday, January 23, 2019
II Timothy 2 Paul teaches that prayer is vital.. in order for us to keep living in faith and purity and love . He urges believers to make "entreaties and prayers, petitions and thanksgivings" on "behalf of all men".. including kings. Why? ".. in order that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity."
"This is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth."
This passage always convicts me of my failure to pray for our government leaders. I am generally disgusted with those who are in Washington. They all seem selfish, greedy, and power-hungry. But, that is so judgemental, isn't it? And, we are commanded to respect them, love them, and pray for them... for God desires them all to be saved!
Lord God, help me to be more faithful in praying for our country' s leaders.
Paul again focuses on the importance of preaching the truth. There is "one God and one mediator also between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, who gave Himself as a ransom for all, the testimony borne at the proper time."
To live according to this Truth, Paul exhorts men to pray "lifting up holy hands without wrath and dissension." Pure love, sincere faith, and a good conscience... absolutely vital!
He also exhorts women to live according to Truth. Because we belong to Jesus, we need to honor Him by dressing with modesty and discretion. We should be known for our good works instead of our extravagant wardrobe. We should show respect for our husbands and others. We should "continue in faith and love and sanctity with self -restraint."
If the most important thing in "the sight of God" is for all people to be saved and to walk in Truth, then that should be the primary desire for every Christian man or woman. All our actions, all our relationships, all our motivations, all of our lives... should reflect this ultimate purpose.
Father in heaven, transform us by renewing our minds with Your Truth. Take us and mold us into godly, pure, sincere, and faithful servants. We do pray for our country and those in positions of governing. Bring them to the knowledge of Truth and salvation. We petition You for their repentance and redemption. May they bow before You and recognize Your greatness and authority over them. May they humble themselves and turn away from their stubborn, unbelieving hearts. May we be able to live tranquil and quiet lives of godliness and dignity. We give You thanks that You hear our petitions and that You can do all things! Be glorified Lord!
We pray this in the name of our Mediator, Jesus Christ the Lord. Amen.
"This is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth."
This passage always convicts me of my failure to pray for our government leaders. I am generally disgusted with those who are in Washington. They all seem selfish, greedy, and power-hungry. But, that is so judgemental, isn't it? And, we are commanded to respect them, love them, and pray for them... for God desires them all to be saved!
Lord God, help me to be more faithful in praying for our country' s leaders.
Paul again focuses on the importance of preaching the truth. There is "one God and one mediator also between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, who gave Himself as a ransom for all, the testimony borne at the proper time."
To live according to this Truth, Paul exhorts men to pray "lifting up holy hands without wrath and dissension." Pure love, sincere faith, and a good conscience... absolutely vital!
He also exhorts women to live according to Truth. Because we belong to Jesus, we need to honor Him by dressing with modesty and discretion. We should be known for our good works instead of our extravagant wardrobe. We should show respect for our husbands and others. We should "continue in faith and love and sanctity with self -restraint."
If the most important thing in "the sight of God" is for all people to be saved and to walk in Truth, then that should be the primary desire for every Christian man or woman. All our actions, all our relationships, all our motivations, all of our lives... should reflect this ultimate purpose.
Father in heaven, transform us by renewing our minds with Your Truth. Take us and mold us into godly, pure, sincere, and faithful servants. We do pray for our country and those in positions of governing. Bring them to the knowledge of Truth and salvation. We petition You for their repentance and redemption. May they bow before You and recognize Your greatness and authority over them. May they humble themselves and turn away from their stubborn, unbelieving hearts. May we be able to live tranquil and quiet lives of godliness and dignity. We give You thanks that You hear our petitions and that You can do all things! Be glorified Lord!
We pray this in the name of our Mediator, Jesus Christ the Lord. Amen.
Tuesday, January 22, 2019
I Timothy 1 Verse 5 : "But the goal of our instruction is love from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith."
Once again, Paul reminds us all that a worthy walk isn't based on knowledge or wisdom or works.. but on the Truth... God alone is our Savior and Christ Jesus is our hope.
There were some that were teaching "strange doctrines". They were taking "myths".. "genealogies".. and parts of the Law, which they did not understand and didn't even know what they were talking about.. and making "confident assertions". They were leading people astray. They were far from Truth and shipwrecked!
Paul clarifies that the problem is not with the Law. The Law is given "for those who are lawless".
If we don't know right from wrong.. we will not know when we have sinned. Paul reminds his readers that those who are "rebellious.. ungodly... unholy.. and profane" need to know the Truth. However, just knowing the Law does not save us. It is only the "glorious gospel of the blessed God." that reveals His saving grace. In ".. faith and love which are found in Christ Jesus"... we find the Truth.. " Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners... believe in Him for eternal life "
Keep "faith and a good conscience.. " Paul tells Timothy.. "fight the good fight".
The goal is love. The Bible Knowledge Commentary says this, " Each member of this beautiful trio (love, good conscience , sincere faith) speaks of a purity and integrity which produces the most exquisite kind of selfless love, seen in its ultimate form in God's love itself."
False teaching cannot produce true love or faith. It cannot produce a "good conscience". It is not based on the Truth and is worthless. Only God Himself, in love, with mercy and grace, demonstrating His perfect patience, can bring about True love, sincere faith, and a good conscience. Let us keep walking in these Truths.
Father in heaven, great is Your Name in all the earth! There is none other who Loves as You do. You have shown us mercy and delivered us from falsehoods that come from Satan. We cling to Your Word, which is Truth. We cling to Jesus, who alone can save us from our sins. We choose to keep faith, to walk in purity, and to love, even as You have loved us. We know that we cannot do this on our own, but only by Christ Jesus, who is our hope. Fill us now with Your Spirit that we might continue to walk in Your Truth.. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen
Once again, Paul reminds us all that a worthy walk isn't based on knowledge or wisdom or works.. but on the Truth... God alone is our Savior and Christ Jesus is our hope.
There were some that were teaching "strange doctrines". They were taking "myths".. "genealogies".. and parts of the Law, which they did not understand and didn't even know what they were talking about.. and making "confident assertions". They were leading people astray. They were far from Truth and shipwrecked!
Paul clarifies that the problem is not with the Law. The Law is given "for those who are lawless".
If we don't know right from wrong.. we will not know when we have sinned. Paul reminds his readers that those who are "rebellious.. ungodly... unholy.. and profane" need to know the Truth. However, just knowing the Law does not save us. It is only the "glorious gospel of the blessed God." that reveals His saving grace. In ".. faith and love which are found in Christ Jesus"... we find the Truth.. " Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners... believe in Him for eternal life "
Keep "faith and a good conscience.. " Paul tells Timothy.. "fight the good fight".
The goal is love. The Bible Knowledge Commentary says this, " Each member of this beautiful trio (love, good conscience , sincere faith) speaks of a purity and integrity which produces the most exquisite kind of selfless love, seen in its ultimate form in God's love itself."
False teaching cannot produce true love or faith. It cannot produce a "good conscience". It is not based on the Truth and is worthless. Only God Himself, in love, with mercy and grace, demonstrating His perfect patience, can bring about True love, sincere faith, and a good conscience. Let us keep walking in these Truths.
Father in heaven, great is Your Name in all the earth! There is none other who Loves as You do. You have shown us mercy and delivered us from falsehoods that come from Satan. We cling to Your Word, which is Truth. We cling to Jesus, who alone can save us from our sins. We choose to keep faith, to walk in purity, and to love, even as You have loved us. We know that we cannot do this on our own, but only by Christ Jesus, who is our hope. Fill us now with Your Spirit that we might continue to walk in Your Truth.. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen
Monday, January 21, 2019
II Thessalonians 2-3 It is so vital that we know the Truth and that we walk according to it! The church in Thessalonica was disturbed by a false teaching.. that the "day of the Lord" had already come.. and that they missed it! Paul clarifies it for them, reminding them of what they had already been taught. Before the final judgement, things would happen.. there would be a time of "apostasy", the rise of a "man of lawlessness", and the removal of the One who "now restrains" him.
Receive the truth, Paul exhorts us. Don't be deluded or confused.
"...God has chosen you from the beginning for salvation through sanctification by the Spirit and faith in the truth..." ( v13)
".. He called you through our gospel, that you may gain the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ." ( v14)
"Now may our Lord Jesus Christ Himself and God our Father, who has loved us and given us eternal comfort and good hope by grace, comfort and strengthen your hearts in every good work and word."
Paul reminds them that God is faithful..
He will strengthen and protect us from the evil one.
He will direct our hearts into His love and into the "steadfastness of Christ"
He will give us peace in all circumstances when we trust Him and obey His word.
Our part is to walk according to the godly examples that we have been given.
We are to "work in a quiet fashion and eat our own bread".
We are to "not grow weary of doing good."
God, our Father and our Lord, Jesus Christ, we praise You and honor You, for You alone are worthy of all worship. You have our hearts. Your love for us has been poured out upon us.. You chose us, You have saved us, You are sanctifying us, and You are directing us in Your Truth. We do ask that You continue to accomplish Your perfect will in each of us, bringing us into alignment with our Savior. Fill us again with Your Spirit that we might walk today in all Truth, steadfast and faithful.
May our hearts be filled with Your love.. overflowing in praise and thanksgiving.
Amen and amen.
Receive the truth, Paul exhorts us. Don't be deluded or confused.
"...God has chosen you from the beginning for salvation through sanctification by the Spirit and faith in the truth..." ( v13)
".. He called you through our gospel, that you may gain the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ." ( v14)
"Now may our Lord Jesus Christ Himself and God our Father, who has loved us and given us eternal comfort and good hope by grace, comfort and strengthen your hearts in every good work and word."
Paul reminds them that God is faithful..
He will strengthen and protect us from the evil one.
He will direct our hearts into His love and into the "steadfastness of Christ"
He will give us peace in all circumstances when we trust Him and obey His word.
Our part is to walk according to the godly examples that we have been given.
We are to "work in a quiet fashion and eat our own bread".
We are to "not grow weary of doing good."
God, our Father and our Lord, Jesus Christ, we praise You and honor You, for You alone are worthy of all worship. You have our hearts. Your love for us has been poured out upon us.. You chose us, You have saved us, You are sanctifying us, and You are directing us in Your Truth. We do ask that You continue to accomplish Your perfect will in each of us, bringing us into alignment with our Savior. Fill us again with Your Spirit that we might walk today in all Truth, steadfast and faithful.
May our hearts be filled with Your love.. overflowing in praise and thanksgiving.
Amen and amen.
Friday, January 18, 2019
II Thessalonians 1
"Grace to you and peace from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ." Paul begins this letter.
He is thankful that their "faith is greatly enlarged".
He is thankful that their "love of each one.. for one another grows ever greater "
He is proud of their "perseverance and faith" in the midst of their "persecutions and afflictions."
He assures them that "this is a plain indication of God's righteous judgement".. so that they "may be considered worthy of the kingdom of God" for which they were suffering.
He reminds them that those who afflict them will face a day of "retribution".. and will "pay the penalty of eternal destruction."
"Relief" is ahead.. when Jesus is "revealed from heaven".
When He comes in glory and power .. all will marvel!
We need to keep "seeking the things above..."; setting our minds on "the things above and not on the things that are on earth."
When we keep that perspective.. we will continue to walk "worthy of [our] calling".
Paul's prayer is for his readers to "fulfill every desire for goodness and the work of faith with power; in order that the name of our Lord Jesus may be glorified... " in us and us in Him.. according to His grace.
So, what goodness do we desire to fulfill today?
What work of faith can we participate in by the power of Jesus Christ who lives in us?
Is our faith being enlarged?
Is our love ever growing?
Are we persevering in our afflictions?
Are we keeping our eyes on the heavens.. awaiting the return of Jesus who is coming in glory and power?
Will He be glorified in us on that day?
God, our Father and our Lord Jesus Christ, sanctify us through and through, so that You will be glorified in us on that day. We ask You to fill us to the full with Your Spirit so that we may walk in a way worthy of Your Kingdom.. for we cannot do this on our own. You are the God of grace and peace, and we are Yours in Christ Jesus. Thank You for saving us! Thank You for sanctifying us. We praise You with all our hearts.
Amen.
"Grace to you and peace from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ." Paul begins this letter.
He is thankful that their "faith is greatly enlarged".
He is thankful that their "love of each one.. for one another grows ever greater "
He is proud of their "perseverance and faith" in the midst of their "persecutions and afflictions."
He assures them that "this is a plain indication of God's righteous judgement".. so that they "may be considered worthy of the kingdom of God" for which they were suffering.
He reminds them that those who afflict them will face a day of "retribution".. and will "pay the penalty of eternal destruction."
"Relief" is ahead.. when Jesus is "revealed from heaven".
When He comes in glory and power .. all will marvel!
We need to keep "seeking the things above..."; setting our minds on "the things above and not on the things that are on earth."
When we keep that perspective.. we will continue to walk "worthy of [our] calling".
Paul's prayer is for his readers to "fulfill every desire for goodness and the work of faith with power; in order that the name of our Lord Jesus may be glorified... " in us and us in Him.. according to His grace.
So, what goodness do we desire to fulfill today?
What work of faith can we participate in by the power of Jesus Christ who lives in us?
Is our faith being enlarged?
Is our love ever growing?
Are we persevering in our afflictions?
Are we keeping our eyes on the heavens.. awaiting the return of Jesus who is coming in glory and power?
Will He be glorified in us on that day?
God, our Father and our Lord Jesus Christ, sanctify us through and through, so that You will be glorified in us on that day. We ask You to fill us to the full with Your Spirit so that we may walk in a way worthy of Your Kingdom.. for we cannot do this on our own. You are the God of grace and peace, and we are Yours in Christ Jesus. Thank You for saving us! Thank You for sanctifying us. We praise You with all our hearts.
Amen.
Wednesday, January 16, 2019
I Thessalonians 4:13-5 :11
Paul ends this letter with an encouraging word about the return of Jesus. The people were worried that those who died before Christ's return would miss out. Paul assures them that this was far from the truth.. "For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trumpet of God; and the dead in Christ shall rise first. "
Oh, what good news! "Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to see the Lord in the air and thus we shall always be with the Lord." Truly we can "comfort one another with these words."
Paul reminds his readers that they know the truth... that there is a day coming when the Lord will return. For those who believe that "Jesus died and rose again".. this will be a day of wonderful joy!
But, to those who are in darkness, those who have sought "peace and safety" in any other source.. in those who have lives characterized by sleep and drunkenness ( no self-control ).. those "of the night"; there comes judgement.. destruction.. " and they shall not escape".
We are "sons of light and sons of day", Paul writes, so "let us be alert and sober". Let us put on "the breastplate of faith and love, and as a helmet, the hope of salvation. " God has "destined us.. for obtaining salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ." We have every reason to be encouraged and built up as we comfort one another with these truths.
Verses 12-28 give a quick but packed recap of worthy walk living... if we are to be "alert and sober" and ready for the day of our Lord's return, let us:
Appreciate, love, and esteem those in positions of leadership and teaching in the church.
Live in peace with each other.
".. admonish the unruly, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with all men.. "
Not return "evil for evil.. but always seek that which is good for one another and for all men."
"Rejoice always; pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus "
" Do not quench the Spirit" Paul adds. We examine carefully, hold fast to the truths, and abstain from all evil.. as God Himself, sanctifies us through and through.
Father in heaven, we cling to You.. yearning for the day when faith will be sight and we will be forever with You! Help us to walk worthily of Your calling upon each of us. May Your will be done!
Take my life and let it be.. consecrated.. daily.. to You, Lord. You are my hope and I rest in You, my Sanctifier, as I look eagerly for Your return. Keep me alert and self-controlled, by the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, who is my life...
Amen.
Paul ends this letter with an encouraging word about the return of Jesus. The people were worried that those who died before Christ's return would miss out. Paul assures them that this was far from the truth.. "For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trumpet of God; and the dead in Christ shall rise first. "
Oh, what good news! "Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to see the Lord in the air and thus we shall always be with the Lord." Truly we can "comfort one another with these words."
Paul reminds his readers that they know the truth... that there is a day coming when the Lord will return. For those who believe that "Jesus died and rose again".. this will be a day of wonderful joy!
But, to those who are in darkness, those who have sought "peace and safety" in any other source.. in those who have lives characterized by sleep and drunkenness ( no self-control ).. those "of the night"; there comes judgement.. destruction.. " and they shall not escape".
We are "sons of light and sons of day", Paul writes, so "let us be alert and sober". Let us put on "the breastplate of faith and love, and as a helmet, the hope of salvation. " God has "destined us.. for obtaining salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ." We have every reason to be encouraged and built up as we comfort one another with these truths.
Verses 12-28 give a quick but packed recap of worthy walk living... if we are to be "alert and sober" and ready for the day of our Lord's return, let us:
Appreciate, love, and esteem those in positions of leadership and teaching in the church.
Live in peace with each other.
".. admonish the unruly, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with all men.. "
Not return "evil for evil.. but always seek that which is good for one another and for all men."
"Rejoice always; pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus "
" Do not quench the Spirit" Paul adds. We examine carefully, hold fast to the truths, and abstain from all evil.. as God Himself, sanctifies us through and through.
Father in heaven, we cling to You.. yearning for the day when faith will be sight and we will be forever with You! Help us to walk worthily of Your calling upon each of us. May Your will be done!
Take my life and let it be.. consecrated.. daily.. to You, Lord. You are my hope and I rest in You, my Sanctifier, as I look eagerly for Your return. Keep me alert and self-controlled, by the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, who is my life...
Amen.
Tuesday, January 15, 2019
I Thessalonians 4
Verses 1-12 are exhortations... reminders of what it looks like to walk a worthy walk... a message that Paul repeats to all the churches in all his letters. Here, Paul writes, " For you know the commandments we gave you by the authority of the Lord Jesus. For this is the will of God, your sanctification; ... "
Sanctification - purity, holiness, to be made holy. This is God's will for us. Paul describes this as abstaining from immorality and lustful passions.. and from fraudulent behavior towards each other. "For God has not called us for the purpose of impurity, but in sanctification." He doesn't want us to live in uncleanness... but in purity. Paul also includes in this description of God's will for the church, the need to love one another.. to excel in love, more and more. Purity, honesty, and love.. the essence of a worthy walk. As an added note Paul says, ".. make it your ambition to lead a quiet life and attend to your own business and work with your hands, just as we commanded you; so that you may behave properly toward outsiders and not be in any need. "
A friend recently shared a quote from Oswald Chambers about the fact that we do not have to do exceptional things, but we have to be exceptional in ordinary things. This, it seems to me, is what Paul is saying in his letters... God calls us to a life of holiness in the ordinary days and hours of our time here on earth. It is exceptional to love.. really love one another. It is exceptional to "possess [your] own vessel in sanctification and honor." It is exceptional to always treat others honestly and generously. In our culture.. in our world.. this is truly exceptional living!
Which also brings to my mind the sermons that my pastor has been preaching from the book of Ephesians.. making the point that when we live according to God's plan.. as husbands and wives, serving/ subject to one another.. we are being just like Jesus, who humbled Himself.. "emptied Himself, taking the form of a bond-servant, .. becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross." ( Philippians 2:7-8) It is exceptional to have this kind of marriage. It is a testimony of the life of Christ in us. We can be exceptional in the ordinary... but, only if we are kept filled by the Holy Spirit continually!
"Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you entirely; and may your spirit and soul and body be preserved complete without blame at the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ. Faithful is He who calls you, and He will bring it to pass." ( I Thessalonians. 5:23-24)
What a precious prayer that Paul leaves with us in this letter. Our God calls us to be sanctified.. it is His will for us.. and He Himself is the One who will do it!
Father in heaven, You are so faithful and true, so wise and so strong.. so loving and kind. We praise You and thank You for the grace that You have poured out on us through Jesus Christ our Savior. Fill us Holy Spirit so that we can live lives worthy of our God! Sanctify us through and through. Amen!
Verses 1-12 are exhortations... reminders of what it looks like to walk a worthy walk... a message that Paul repeats to all the churches in all his letters. Here, Paul writes, " For you know the commandments we gave you by the authority of the Lord Jesus. For this is the will of God, your sanctification; ... "
Sanctification - purity, holiness, to be made holy. This is God's will for us. Paul describes this as abstaining from immorality and lustful passions.. and from fraudulent behavior towards each other. "For God has not called us for the purpose of impurity, but in sanctification." He doesn't want us to live in uncleanness... but in purity. Paul also includes in this description of God's will for the church, the need to love one another.. to excel in love, more and more. Purity, honesty, and love.. the essence of a worthy walk. As an added note Paul says, ".. make it your ambition to lead a quiet life and attend to your own business and work with your hands, just as we commanded you; so that you may behave properly toward outsiders and not be in any need. "
A friend recently shared a quote from Oswald Chambers about the fact that we do not have to do exceptional things, but we have to be exceptional in ordinary things. This, it seems to me, is what Paul is saying in his letters... God calls us to a life of holiness in the ordinary days and hours of our time here on earth. It is exceptional to love.. really love one another. It is exceptional to "possess [your] own vessel in sanctification and honor." It is exceptional to always treat others honestly and generously. In our culture.. in our world.. this is truly exceptional living!
Which also brings to my mind the sermons that my pastor has been preaching from the book of Ephesians.. making the point that when we live according to God's plan.. as husbands and wives, serving/ subject to one another.. we are being just like Jesus, who humbled Himself.. "emptied Himself, taking the form of a bond-servant, .. becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross." ( Philippians 2:7-8) It is exceptional to have this kind of marriage. It is a testimony of the life of Christ in us. We can be exceptional in the ordinary... but, only if we are kept filled by the Holy Spirit continually!
"Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you entirely; and may your spirit and soul and body be preserved complete without blame at the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ. Faithful is He who calls you, and He will bring it to pass." ( I Thessalonians. 5:23-24)
What a precious prayer that Paul leaves with us in this letter. Our God calls us to be sanctified.. it is His will for us.. and He Himself is the One who will do it!
Father in heaven, You are so faithful and true, so wise and so strong.. so loving and kind. We praise You and thank You for the grace that You have poured out on us through Jesus Christ our Savior. Fill us Holy Spirit so that we can live lives worthy of our God! Sanctify us through and through. Amen!
Monday, January 14, 2019
I Thessalonians 3 Paul's concern for the church at Thessalonica is so tender and loving. He "could endure it no longer".. he had to know how they were doing.. so he sent Timothy to find out. How happy he was to hear the news that Timothy brought back! Their faith and love and kindness towards Paul revealed a firm stand in the Lord.
But, Paul was still faithful in his prayers for this church and all the churches that he had begun. Again, he gives a great example of how to pray...
But, Paul was still faithful in his prayers for this church and all the churches that he had begun. Again, he gives a great example of how to pray...
" Now may our God and Father, Himself
and Jesus our Lord,
direct our way to you.
and may the Lord cause you to
increase and abound
in love for one another,
and for all men,
just as we also do for you.
so that
He may establish your hearts unblamable in holiness
before our God and Father
at the coming
of our Lord Jesus
with all His saints. " (v11-13)
Father, help us to be faithful in prayer for those that are part of our "family"... those that You have given to us to love and serve. May their love increase and abound, Father.. Their love for You and their love for each other. Lord of all, we pray that You will establish their hearts.. in blameless holiness. Thank You for the vastness of Your grace and the unending love that You have for us.
We praise You, Lord, for nothing is impossible with You!!
Amen.
Friday, January 11, 2019
I Thessalonians 2 Paul reassures and encourages his readers as he speaks of the great fondness he has for them. When he first came to them with the truth of the gospel, he was bold, yet gentle and tender. He was devout.. upright.. and blameless in behavior. He was faithful to share the gospel, but careful to not be a burden. He was so thankful that they received the gospel, recognizing it as the true word of God. And, in this letter he is rejoicing that they are living out their kingdom lives in a worthy manner.
We, who are parents, can relate to Paul's tender and devoted love for his spiritual children. We try to be bold in our teaching of the Word. We want to live devoutly, uprightly, and blameless.. so that we are the best example we can be to our children.. and grandchildren. We try to encourage and exhort.. and implore them .. so that they will walk "in a manner worthy of the God who calls [them] into His own kingdom and glory." ( v12) We pray that they will be spared from false teachers, from suffering, from temptations... but, that when those things come, they will be strengthened by His Spirit in them.
And, when we see them growing in the grace of our Lord, standing firm in the faith.. we say, along with Paul, " ... you are our glory and joy. "
Father, help our children and grandchildren.. and all our loved ones.. to live according to Your Word. May they bind "kindness and truth" around them, and write these virtues on the tablets of their hearts. ( Prov. 3:3)
May they find favor in the sight of God and of man. (3:4) May they trust in You with all of their hearts and not lean on their own understanding. May they acknowledge You in all their ways, so that You can make their paths straight. ( 3:5-6) Thank You Father that Your grace is sufficient for each one of our loved ones. Our hope is in You, Lord, as we lift them before You once again. As always, we ask these things in the Name of Jesus, the One who lives in us.. Amen.
We, who are parents, can relate to Paul's tender and devoted love for his spiritual children. We try to be bold in our teaching of the Word. We want to live devoutly, uprightly, and blameless.. so that we are the best example we can be to our children.. and grandchildren. We try to encourage and exhort.. and implore them .. so that they will walk "in a manner worthy of the God who calls [them] into His own kingdom and glory." ( v12) We pray that they will be spared from false teachers, from suffering, from temptations... but, that when those things come, they will be strengthened by His Spirit in them.
And, when we see them growing in the grace of our Lord, standing firm in the faith.. we say, along with Paul, " ... you are our glory and joy. "
Father, help our children and grandchildren.. and all our loved ones.. to live according to Your Word. May they bind "kindness and truth" around them, and write these virtues on the tablets of their hearts. ( Prov. 3:3)
May they find favor in the sight of God and of man. (3:4) May they trust in You with all of their hearts and not lean on their own understanding. May they acknowledge You in all their ways, so that You can make their paths straight. ( 3:5-6) Thank You Father that Your grace is sufficient for each one of our loved ones. Our hope is in You, Lord, as we lift them before You once again. As always, we ask these things in the Name of Jesus, the One who lives in us.. Amen.
Thursday, January 10, 2019
I Thessalonians
These people received the Gospel "in power and in the Holy Spirit".
They turned from idols "to serve a living and true God. "
They were known for their works of faith, for their labors of love, and for their steadfastness in hope. Their reputation as faithful followers of Jesus had spread across Macedonia.
Their perseverance despite tribulations resulted in great joy among believers.
They awaited the return of Jesus Christ "from heaven".. the same Jesus who rose from the dead, "who delivers us from the wrath to come."
Can we see ourselves in these words of testimony from Paul?
Can we also, proclaim that we have received the gospel, not just in words, but in power.. in the Holy Spirit.. and with "full conviction"?
Do our lives reveal the "joy of the Spirit" in the midst of troubles?
Does the testimony of our personal faith move beyond our own four walls?
Have we truly turned from every and all false idol.. to the One and Only living God?
Do we wait eagerly for the Son?
Do we keep our eyes on "the things above", setting our minds firmly on those things that really matter.. in heaven?
Peter wrote this, "Therefore, gird your minds for action, keep sober in spirit, fix your hope completely on the grace to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ." ( I Peter 1:13)
If we are waiting for Jesus to return, we will live in blessed expectation... doing all that we do out of love and devotion to the Lord Jesus, who is our Master. We will have a living hope, knowing that when He comes, He will bring grace... "When Christ, who is our life, is revealed, then you also will be revealed with Him in glory."
We can only imagine...
Father in heaven, all glorious above, we bow down before You and worship You! How amazing that You choose us... O, how we thank You! Fill us with Your Spirit, that we might live in Christ and for Christ, according to Your perfect will. Let our hearts be filled with Your love. Let our minds be girded and ready for action. Let our hope be sure and fixed on Jesus, our Lord. It is in this matchless name we pray. Amen.
These people received the Gospel "in power and in the Holy Spirit".
They turned from idols "to serve a living and true God. "
They were known for their works of faith, for their labors of love, and for their steadfastness in hope. Their reputation as faithful followers of Jesus had spread across Macedonia.
Their perseverance despite tribulations resulted in great joy among believers.
They awaited the return of Jesus Christ "from heaven".. the same Jesus who rose from the dead, "who delivers us from the wrath to come."
Can we see ourselves in these words of testimony from Paul?
Can we also, proclaim that we have received the gospel, not just in words, but in power.. in the Holy Spirit.. and with "full conviction"?
Do our lives reveal the "joy of the Spirit" in the midst of troubles?
Does the testimony of our personal faith move beyond our own four walls?
Have we truly turned from every and all false idol.. to the One and Only living God?
Do we wait eagerly for the Son?
Do we keep our eyes on "the things above", setting our minds firmly on those things that really matter.. in heaven?
Peter wrote this, "Therefore, gird your minds for action, keep sober in spirit, fix your hope completely on the grace to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ." ( I Peter 1:13)
If we are waiting for Jesus to return, we will live in blessed expectation... doing all that we do out of love and devotion to the Lord Jesus, who is our Master. We will have a living hope, knowing that when He comes, He will bring grace... "When Christ, who is our life, is revealed, then you also will be revealed with Him in glory."
We can only imagine...
Father in heaven, all glorious above, we bow down before You and worship You! How amazing that You choose us... O, how we thank You! Fill us with Your Spirit, that we might live in Christ and for Christ, according to Your perfect will. Let our hearts be filled with Your love. Let our minds be girded and ready for action. Let our hope be sure and fixed on Jesus, our Lord. It is in this matchless name we pray. Amen.
Wednesday, January 9, 2019
Colossians 4 Paul concludes his letter with a reminder to his readers.. to pray.
v2 "Devote yourselves to prayer, keeping alert in it with an attitude of thanksgiving."
In verse 3 .. Paul asks for prayer for himself and his preaching.
v12 Paul tells how Epaphras is "always laboring earnestly" for them in prayer.. "that you may stand perfect and fully assured in all the will of God".
Then in verse 17 Paul instructs the readers to encourage Archippus to "Take heed to the ministry which you have received in the Lord, that you may fulfill it. "
It is in the devotion to prayer, in the earnest labor of prayer, and in the attention to the God-given ministry of prayer.. that we may know the will of God and "fulfill it".
If we do not pray.. we will not speak forth the Word as we should.
If we do not pray.. we will not conduct ourselves with wisdom.. or season our speech with grace.
If we do not pray.. we will not be renewed in our spirits, filled with His power, or live out His life of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.
We all need an Epaphras.. one who is a "bondslave of Christ" who will labor earnestly in prayer for us.
Father, help me to be like Epaphras, devoted to prayer, full of grace, earnest, alert, thankful, and diligent to fulfill the ministry that You have for me. Thank You that Christ lives in me and because of His Presence I live as Your servant and Your child. Have Your way in me today, I pray. I pray for any that will read this blog today, that they may also stand "perfect and fully assured in all the will of God." In the name of my Savior, Jesus Christ, I come... amen.
v2 "Devote yourselves to prayer, keeping alert in it with an attitude of thanksgiving."
In verse 3 .. Paul asks for prayer for himself and his preaching.
v12 Paul tells how Epaphras is "always laboring earnestly" for them in prayer.. "that you may stand perfect and fully assured in all the will of God".
Then in verse 17 Paul instructs the readers to encourage Archippus to "Take heed to the ministry which you have received in the Lord, that you may fulfill it. "
It is in the devotion to prayer, in the earnest labor of prayer, and in the attention to the God-given ministry of prayer.. that we may know the will of God and "fulfill it".
If we do not pray.. we will not speak forth the Word as we should.
If we do not pray.. we will not conduct ourselves with wisdom.. or season our speech with grace.
If we do not pray.. we will not be renewed in our spirits, filled with His power, or live out His life of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.
We all need an Epaphras.. one who is a "bondslave of Christ" who will labor earnestly in prayer for us.
Father, help me to be like Epaphras, devoted to prayer, full of grace, earnest, alert, thankful, and diligent to fulfill the ministry that You have for me. Thank You that Christ lives in me and because of His Presence I live as Your servant and Your child. Have Your way in me today, I pray. I pray for any that will read this blog today, that they may also stand "perfect and fully assured in all the will of God." In the name of my Savior, Jesus Christ, I come... amen.
Tuesday, January 8, 2019
Colossians 3 This "new self" -made complete in Him - "raised up with Christ" - given "all the wealth" and treasures that are His - is "hidden with Christ in God."
He is our life. The old flesh.. the old self.. the old life.. is dead. It no longer enslaves us to sin. It no longer has authority to cause us to be immoral, impure, evil, greedy, or idolatrous. The new life.. the Life of Christ.. has been "renewed to a true knowledge according to the image of the One who created him..."
So, as we "keep seeking the things above..." and set our "minds on the things above" we become more and more like Him.
Our new spiritual, supernatural life - takes control of the body and considers it dead to "immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and greed" . It puts aside "anger, wrath, malice, slander, and abusive speech." It does not lie.
Instead, our lives reflect the holiness of our Lord - His Life comes out -
a "heart of compassion"
"kindness,
humility,
gentleness,
patience,
bearing with one another,
.. forgiving one another... "
We "put on love, which is the perfect bond of unity".
His peace rules our hearts.
We are filled with thankfulness.
Our words are His - teaching with wisdom, admonishing with scripture and hymns and psalms.
We are thankful.
We do and say everything in His Name and for His glory.
Our relationships reflect His truth.
Our work reflects His character.
We are sincere and faithful servants of our Lord.
We are looking to the day when He will be revealed and we are revealed in Him.
We are looking for the "reward of the inheritance" that He has prepared for us.
Keep seeking, we are told.
Keep our eyes and our minds on the finish line.. where Christ our Lord "is seated at the right hand of God. "
Father, keep my mind and life right here - focused on these truths - for the Day of Your salvation is coming nearer and nearer. Your Kingdom come and Your will be done! O, how we long to see the glory of our Lord.. face to face. Hold us in Your loving arms we pray. Amen .
He is our life. The old flesh.. the old self.. the old life.. is dead. It no longer enslaves us to sin. It no longer has authority to cause us to be immoral, impure, evil, greedy, or idolatrous. The new life.. the Life of Christ.. has been "renewed to a true knowledge according to the image of the One who created him..."
So, as we "keep seeking the things above..." and set our "minds on the things above" we become more and more like Him.
Our new spiritual, supernatural life - takes control of the body and considers it dead to "immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and greed" . It puts aside "anger, wrath, malice, slander, and abusive speech." It does not lie.
Instead, our lives reflect the holiness of our Lord - His Life comes out -
a "heart of compassion"
"kindness,
humility,
gentleness,
patience,
bearing with one another,
.. forgiving one another... "
We "put on love, which is the perfect bond of unity".
His peace rules our hearts.
We are filled with thankfulness.
Our words are His - teaching with wisdom, admonishing with scripture and hymns and psalms.
We are thankful.
We do and say everything in His Name and for His glory.
Our relationships reflect His truth.
Our work reflects His character.
We are sincere and faithful servants of our Lord.
We are looking to the day when He will be revealed and we are revealed in Him.
We are looking for the "reward of the inheritance" that He has prepared for us.
Keep seeking, we are told.
Keep our eyes and our minds on the finish line.. where Christ our Lord "is seated at the right hand of God. "
Father, keep my mind and life right here - focused on these truths - for the Day of Your salvation is coming nearer and nearer. Your Kingdom come and Your will be done! O, how we long to see the glory of our Lord.. face to face. Hold us in Your loving arms we pray. Amen .
Monday, January 7, 2019
Colossians 2 Jesus Christ is the "hope of glory"... Let us be encouraged, Paul writes, because we have attained "all the wealth that comes from full assurance of understanding, resulting in a true knowledge of God's mystery, that is Christ Himself."
Jesus holds all the "treasures of wisdom and knowledge" . As we walk in Him we are "made complete".. He is the "head over all rule and authority: ". And we who believe have been "circumcised" .... in that the "body of the flesh" is removed and buried! We were dead... and now "He made [us] alive together with Him, having forgiven us all our transgressions."
Why then, Paul writes, do we worry about days and foods, and moons? NONE of that matters.
What matters is holding on to Jesus.. the Head, "from whom the entire body, being supplied and held together by the joints and ligaments, grows with a growth which is from God."
Jesus.. canceled our debts, forgave our transgressions, gave us new life, and holds us fast. No other can compare. No other can save. No other can sanctify. No other can have authority over us. Our Lord is King and we belong to Him.
Praise the Lord!
Lord, may I know You more and love You more today as You share ( with me!!!) all the wealth of understanding that is in You. Oh what treasures of wisdom and knowledge that You have written for us! Thank You for the Spirit of God who leads us in these truths and fills us with this great hope! We choose to cling to You and to forsake any other teachings that are destined to perish. You alone are the eternal Word!
Fill us! Amen.
Jesus holds all the "treasures of wisdom and knowledge" . As we walk in Him we are "made complete".. He is the "head over all rule and authority: ". And we who believe have been "circumcised" .... in that the "body of the flesh" is removed and buried! We were dead... and now "He made [us] alive together with Him, having forgiven us all our transgressions."
Why then, Paul writes, do we worry about days and foods, and moons? NONE of that matters.
What matters is holding on to Jesus.. the Head, "from whom the entire body, being supplied and held together by the joints and ligaments, grows with a growth which is from God."
Jesus.. canceled our debts, forgave our transgressions, gave us new life, and holds us fast. No other can compare. No other can save. No other can sanctify. No other can have authority over us. Our Lord is King and we belong to Him.
Praise the Lord!
Lord, may I know You more and love You more today as You share ( with me!!!) all the wealth of understanding that is in You. Oh what treasures of wisdom and knowledge that You have written for us! Thank You for the Spirit of God who leads us in these truths and fills us with this great hope! We choose to cling to You and to forsake any other teachings that are destined to perish. You alone are the eternal Word!
Fill us! Amen.
Wednesday, January 2, 2019
Colossians 1
Father, we give thanks to You for this Word.. the Truth.. the Gospel of Jesus Christ. We add our voices to Paul's prayer...
Father, we give thanks to You for this Word.. the Truth.. the Gospel of Jesus Christ. We add our voices to Paul's prayer...
We ask that You would fill us with the knowledge of Your will,
in all spiritual wisdom and understanding,
so that
we may walk in a manner worthy of our Lord,
pleasing You in all respects,
bearing fruit in every good work,
increasing in our knowledge of You.
Strengthen us with Your power,
according to Your glorious might!
So that,
we might attain all steadfastness
and patience..
And that we might joyfully give thanks to our Father,
who has qualified us to share in the the
inheritance of the saints in light.
We have an "incomparable" Savior and a Gracious God!
He delivered us "from the domain of darkness" and "transferred us to the kingdom of His beloved Son!"
He redeemed us.. forgiving our sins.
This Jesus, the Christ, the One we seek to know and love more is:
",.. the image of the invisible God"
".. the first born of all creation."
The Creator of "all things.. both in the heavens and on earth, visible or invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities - all things have been created by Him and for Him."
He is "before all things and in Him all things hold together."
He is the Head of the church.
He is the "beginning, the first -born from the dead.. "
He has "first place in everything".
All the fulness dwells in Him.
He reconciles all things to Himself.
He has "made peace through the blood of His cross".
He has "reconciled [me] in His fleshly body through death in order to present [me] before Him holy and blameless and beyond reproach."
May we stand firm in faith.. " established and steadfast"
May we not be moved "away from the hope of the gospel".
May we know the "riches of His glory .. Christ in [me] the hope of glory"
May we proclaim Him "admonishing every man with wisdom, that we may present every man complete in Christ."
May we labor.. striving with His power which works in us.
Even if we just meditate on one of these things.. we can advance in our goal to know and love Him more each day.... Jesus.. holds all things together. All of creation.. all of mankind.. all of you and all of me.. He holds our marriages together. He holds our families together. He holds our bodies together.. He holds the Church together. And, He does it with love and patience.. with kindness and gentleness.. He does it humbly and faithfully.
Oh may we know the riches of His glory.. the hope we have because He is in us!
Amen.
Tuesday, January 1, 2019
Happy New Year! A fresh beginning.. a year of new opportunities .. a time to start something new, perhaps?
Reading in a new devotional this morning , I am encouraged to set a goal for this new year.. to know and love the Lord more each day... This is one of those things that at first glance you might say.. "of course".. But, it is not something that will happen without effort, diligence, attention, and deliberate practice. So, I am lifting up this goal as a prayer, for myself and for my loved ones.. and for anyone else that happens upon this blog ...
Lord God, You love us with amazing, unending, limitless love. You have provided all that we need for salvation, redeeming us through the sacrifice of our Beloved Lord Jesus Christ. This new year, Lord, we ask that You would strengthen us by Your Spirit in our inner beings, to grow in knowing You.. Father, Spirit, and Son.. and to love You more and more each day. We ask this in the Name of the One who has all authority in heaven and earth, Jesus, our King. Amen.
Philippians 4 Paul gives some important final instructions to this church.. instructions that will help us also.. in our worthy walk.. in our quest to know Him and to love Him more:
"... so stand firm in the Lord.. " (v1) Daily... hourly.. minute by minute.. connection to our Savior!
"Rejoice in the Lord always; again I say rejoice." ( v4) Even if we don't feel like it? YES!
" Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, shall guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." ( v6-7) What a precious truth!
"Finally brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence, and if anything worthy of praise, let your mind dwell on these things. " ( v8)
Paul testifies that he has learned to be "content in whatever circumstances " he encounters. He has learned that he can "do all things through Him who strengthens" him. And, he can say with confidence that "God shall supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus."
We also can find contentment, peace, joy, perseverance , and strength in Christ Jesus as we set our minds to know Him and to love Him more. Let's set our minds on Jesus.. who is true, honorable, right, pure, lovely, of good repute, excellent, and worthy of praise.. Let us endeavor to stand firm in Him, to rejoice in Him, to bring every need to Him and rest in His bountiful provisions, confident that He will supply all our needs also! He owns the cattle on a thousand hills.. I know that He can care for me... and for you!
Praise to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Reading in a new devotional this morning , I am encouraged to set a goal for this new year.. to know and love the Lord more each day... This is one of those things that at first glance you might say.. "of course".. But, it is not something that will happen without effort, diligence, attention, and deliberate practice. So, I am lifting up this goal as a prayer, for myself and for my loved ones.. and for anyone else that happens upon this blog ...
Lord God, You love us with amazing, unending, limitless love. You have provided all that we need for salvation, redeeming us through the sacrifice of our Beloved Lord Jesus Christ. This new year, Lord, we ask that You would strengthen us by Your Spirit in our inner beings, to grow in knowing You.. Father, Spirit, and Son.. and to love You more and more each day. We ask this in the Name of the One who has all authority in heaven and earth, Jesus, our King. Amen.
Philippians 4 Paul gives some important final instructions to this church.. instructions that will help us also.. in our worthy walk.. in our quest to know Him and to love Him more:
"... so stand firm in the Lord.. " (v1) Daily... hourly.. minute by minute.. connection to our Savior!
"Rejoice in the Lord always; again I say rejoice." ( v4) Even if we don't feel like it? YES!
" Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, shall guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." ( v6-7) What a precious truth!
"Finally brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence, and if anything worthy of praise, let your mind dwell on these things. " ( v8)
Paul testifies that he has learned to be "content in whatever circumstances " he encounters. He has learned that he can "do all things through Him who strengthens" him. And, he can say with confidence that "God shall supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus."
We also can find contentment, peace, joy, perseverance , and strength in Christ Jesus as we set our minds to know Him and to love Him more. Let's set our minds on Jesus.. who is true, honorable, right, pure, lovely, of good repute, excellent, and worthy of praise.. Let us endeavor to stand firm in Him, to rejoice in Him, to bring every need to Him and rest in His bountiful provisions, confident that He will supply all our needs also! He owns the cattle on a thousand hills.. I know that He can care for me... and for you!
Praise to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. Amen.
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