Friday's Challenge

James 1:22-24, “But don’t just listen to God’s word. You must do what it says. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves. ²³ For if you listen to the word and don’t obey, it is like glancing at your face in a mirror. ²⁴ You see yourself, walk away, and forget what you look like.” (NLT)

The Word of God has the ability and the authority to challenge our thinking as well as challenge a response to what is being revealed to our hearts. If we believe the Bible to be the truth, why do we sometimes struggle with its application? Perhaps we are self-deceived to think the Truth of Scripture is needed for someone else, but not for us (not for me). Truth is right and good and this is fulfilled as I stop rejecting the practice of the Truth and I choose to start living it out on a daily basis. Only the revelation and the application of the Truth to my life has the power and ability to transform our (my personal) behavior. What alters our actions is an inward change expressed in outward obedience. The wonderful benefit of this practical process is that Truth applied makes us fully alive.

One writer made this observation. "Truth is like a vaccination—that when administered—prevents you from being infected with foolish living. It is like a life-saving serum applied to sin’s poisonous snakebite—potentially healing you from relational, emotional, physical and spiritual death. There is no downside to honestly gazing into the mirror of Truth—assessing your life—better yet inviting godly friends to look with you, and then by God’s grace, applying truth for change.” Each of us need to remember and reflect on the powerful effect that the Truth of God's Word can have in and on our lives if we willingly submit to the application of Truth to our journey of life."

Ephesians 4:21-24, “when you heard about Christ and were taught in him in accordance with the truth that is in Jesus. ²² You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires;23 to be made new in the attitude of your minds; ²⁴ and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.” (NIV)

Tuesday's Thoughts

James 4:8a, “Draw near to God and He will draw near to you…” (NKJV)

It is amazing to fully realize the fact that God desires to draw near to each of us. God desires to fellowship with us although He knows us inside and out. He is fully aware of all our quirks, our hurts, our sorrows, our doubts, our fears, our heartaches, etc. YET He sill desires to draw near to us. I am so thankful that God is interested in me and my journey of life. I encourage you to take a momentary pause from reading this blog and join me in saying, "Thank you God for loving me and for desiring to be a part of my life!!!"

Theologian and Pastor Michael Ramsey once said, “The secret (to prayer) is the quest of God’s presence.” God wants you and me to share our needs and desires, our fears and insecurities, but He also invites us to simply come into His presence and be transformed. When we pray, our aim should be nothing less than an encounter of divine love. This is one of the reasons that satan interferes with our private times with God. The enemy of our soul does not want us to have an encounter with the Love of God. There is a difference in our lives when we encounter the Love of God whether it is during a time of personal fellowship with God or when it is an encounter with an individual who has become a conduit of God's love!!

The Word of God provides us a powerful response that David made when God invited Him into His presence. Oh the joy of being invited into the presence of God. Do you remember the emotions that flooded Esther’s mind and heart when she was preparing to enter into the presence of the King? What would happen to the present day church if we took the same approach to entering into the presence of God whether it is in the public arena of church or the private arena of personal devotionals? 

Let us pay close attention David’s response to the invitation from God. “You have said, “Seek my face.” My heart says to you, “Your face, Lord, do I seek” (Psalm 27:8).

HOW WILL WE RESPOND TO GOD’S INVITATION TODAY? Will we take the time to enter into His presence or will we choose to just go about our daily life without an encounter with the presence of God? 

Monday's Musings

1 Corinthians 1:18, “For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.” (NKJV)

We have just completed the spiritual process of reflection, meditation and celebration of Holy Week. I trust that this "2,000 year old story" has reminded each of us of the transformational power of Jesus Christ. This past week we have been reminded that He died, that He was buried and that He arose on the third day. Each of these steps in the life of Christ were planned, designed and understood prior to His entrance into this Earth as a human being. Once again, I cry out these words, "Oh what a Savior."

Today we enter what I will reference as the "Post Resurrection Celebration." Where do we go from the empty tomb now that we have put away the flowers, songs, skits, crosses, communion trays, brightly colored ties, chocolate eggs, Easter songs, etc.? Each of these items have "somewhat" of a connection with the "Easter" story. But I am thankful that these items are not where my Hope is placed. I am not just connected with the symbols of the "Easter" season of celebration. No, a thousand times NO. I am connected with and depending on the Risen Savior who is worthy of my celebration each and every day. 

I do not need the calendar to remind me that Jesus is ALIVE; I see and sense Him alive in my heart and life on a daily basis. I am thankful that I can report that the remains of Jesus' body is not THERE IN THE TOMB. The Hope of the Resurrection reminds me that Jesus is PRESENT IN THE HERE AND IN THE NOW!! He is alive for evermore. 

I understand that each of us face our unique set of struggles, trials, challenges, heartaches, anxieties, difficulties, etc. BUT we have a Risen Savior to trust and place our faith in during these moments, Jesus in not "there in the tomb" but He is alive in each moment of our lives. These is no doubt in my mind that Jesus is alive as I typed those previous words. I have witnessed the presence of Jesus Christ in my life on more occasions that I can even identify. The wonderful message of Easter is that JESUS IS ALIVE AND THAT HE DWELLS AMONG US AS WELL AS IN US!!

Hebrews 7:25, “Therefore He is also able to save to the uttermost those who come to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them.” (NKJV)

Reflections on Good Friday

I Corinthians 15:1, 3-4, “Moreover, brethren, I declare to you the gospel which I preached to you, which also you received and in which you stand, For I delivered to you first of all that which I also received: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures, (NJKV)

Good Friday is really good for those who have come to the foot of the cross of Jesus, in repentance and faith. It is a commemoration for Christians of the ultimate and final sacrifice for the sins of the world. Through a cruel and grueling death, Christ gave His life—His body wreathed in pain, so the sick could be healed. He felt abandonment, so the rejected could be accepted. He knew no sin, but became sin, so sinners could be forgiven. 

Would you take a moment and read these words of Max Lucado as he writes about the Love of God that was revealed as well as declared on Good Friday as Jesus took our place on the cross.

Can a holy God overlook our mistakes? Should a kind God punish our mistakes? From our perspective there are only two equally unappealing solutions. But from God’s perspective there’s a third. It’s called “the Cross of Christ.” The cross is where God forgave his children without lowering his standards.

How could he do this? In a sentence: God put our sin on his Son and punished it there. “God put on him the wrong who never did anything wrong, so we could be put right with God” (2 Corinthians 5:21 MSG). Why did he do it? Because “God so loved the world that he gave his only son.” (John 3:16 NLT). Aren’t you glad the verse doesn’t read: “For God so loved the rich”? Or “For God so loved the famous?” No we simply (and happily) read: “For God so loved the world!” And you are included in that love! (Max Lucado) (Emphasis added)

Good Friday Prayer

We wait, on Friday, for the resurrection of Sunday
And sometimes our lives seem a succession of Fridays
And we cannot see what is “Good.”
Teach us to call your name
As Jesus did.
Make us to trust in you like little children.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
- Rachel Marie Stone

Maundy Thursday

We have moved into the second half of Holy Week. Some writers refer to yesterday as "Silent Wednesday" in the last week of the earthly life of Jesus. This is because there is no specific declaration of any activity of Jesus that day other than it appears that He would spend time alone with His Father. Let us remember that each of us needs those times of meditation, contemplation and even quietness in the presence of God. These moments allow us to "drink in" the refreshing presence of God during our journey of life.

Today is Maundy Thursday. This is the day that Jesus celebrated what we reference as the "Last Supper" with His disciples. We now celebrate Communion or the Lord's Supper in which we are encouraged to remember and reflect on Christ and the sacrifice that was made for our sins. I believe that the remembrance of the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross should be a daily occurrence in the lives of born again believers. I am blessed when I have the privilege to celebrate Communion with the family of God but I am also blessed when I am able to celebrate Jesus Christ in my personal times of devotion, prayer, meditation and reflection. I encourage you to take some time on this Maundy Thursday and reflect on the price that Jesus paid for your salvation. It was not a cheap discounted price; it cost Jesus His life.

Luke 22:19-20, “And He took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, “This is My body which is given for you; do this in remembrance of Me.” ²⁰ Likewise He also took the cup after supper, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in My blood, which is shed for you.” (NKJV)

Today's Prayer:

·         God, I hand over to You those things that make me so afraid. Resurrect the parts of my faith squelched by fear.

·         God, when my soul is searching, help me know the answer to every longing can be found in You.

·         God, the fact that Jesus is risen should lift my head, my heart and my attitude. Help me to live today as if I really believe this with every part of my life.

·         Jesus, You keep Your promises. Help me live as though I believe that with every part of me. Help me trust You more, obey You more and resemble You more.

·         Jesus, You had the angels invite the women in to see for themselves that You had risen. You invite me into these personal revelations every day. Forgive me for sometimes rushing about and forgetting to come and see for myself ... You, Your Word, Your insights.

·         Jesus, I don't want to be a secret keeper with my faith. I want to be a bold and gracious truth proclaimer. For You. With You. Because of You.

- Lysa TerKeurst

Holy Week Thoughts on Tuesday

I truly believe that it is very important to remind ourselves of the value that God places on the lives of human beings. In a world in which it appears that the lives of individuals are being "devalued" we see the opposite in God's view of humanity. I also believe the story of the Gospel message reveals the steps of action that Jesus took to bring reality to the story. The Bible is not a book written for entertainment but it was a book written for revelation. The Bible is the revelation of Jesus Christ and His journey to Earth where He would offer His life as a sacrifice for the sins of humanity. The song declares this powerful, prophetic statement; "Oh What a Savior." 

Do you know that Savior today? Do you know that the Savior is interested in YOU and that YOU ARE VALUABLE AND IMPORTANT TO HIM? Do you sense the Savior speaking to your heart as you read these words? He is just as close as the mention of His name!! Will you take the time to call out to Him and ask Him to guide and direct your steps of life. You are of great value to God and He is truly interested in your eternal destiny!!

Matthew 12:11-13, “Then He said to them, “What man is there among you who has one sheep, and if it falls into a pit on the Sabbath, will not lay hold of it and lift it out? ¹² Of how much more value then is a man than a sheep? Therefore it is lawful to do good on the Sabbath.” ¹³ Then He said to the man, “Stretch out your hand.” And he stretched it out, and it was restored as whole as the other.” (NKJV)

Lord God, You loved this world so much, that you gave your one and only Son, that we might be called your children too. Lord, help us to live in the gladness and grace of Easter Sunday, everyday. Let us have hearts of thankfulness for your sacrifice. Let us have eyes that look upon Your grace and rejoice in our salvation. Help us to walk in that mighty grace and tell your good news to the world. All for your glory do we pray, Lord, Amen. - Rachel Marie Stone

Monday's Musings

We are entering into the week that is referred to as Holy Week in the community of Christians. This is a week that is calling each of us to reflect on the Cross that was erected on Calvary. It was there at that place and at that time that our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ died in our place. Don't you think that His death deserves more than a quick glance and more than a delicious meal on Easter Sunday? Don't you think that His death deserves more than candy eggs and hard boiled colored eggs? Don't you think that His death deserves more than just a shopping spree for new clothes? Let me hasten to add that I am not criticizing these activities but I do believe that we (me) need to be careful and not overdo these events and fail to properly reflect on the reason that Jesus went to the "old rugged cross." LET US REMEMBER THAT HE DIED FOR THE SINS OF HUMANITY!!

I read a prayer in one of my devotionals this morning and it struck a chord of Truth in my spirit. I am going to share it with you.

Dear God, Thank you that you make all things new. Thank you for the victory and power in your Name. Thank you that you hold the keys over death, that by your might, Jesus was raised from the grave, paving the way for us to have new life with you. Thank you that you had plan, that you made a way.

We confess our need for you…fresh…new…again. We ask that you renew our hearts, minds, and lives, for the days ahead. We pray for your refreshing over us. Keep your words of truth planted firm within us, help us to keep focused on what is pure and right, give us the power to be obedient to your word. And when the enemy reminds us where we have been, hissing his lies and attacks our way, we trust that your voice speaks louder and stronger, reminding us we are safe with you and that your purposes and plans will not fail. We ask that you will be our defense and rear guard, keeping our way clear, removing the obstacles, and covering the pitfalls. Lord, lead us on your level ground.

Shine your light in us, through us, over us. May we make a difference in this world, for your glory and purposes. Set you way before us. May all your plans succeed. We may reflect your peace and hope to a world that so desperately needs your presence and healing.

Thanks be to you God, for your indescribable gift! To you be glory and honor, on this Resurrection Day, and forever.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Debbie McDaniel

Friday's Findings

Galatians 2:20, “I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.” (NKJV) (Emphasis Added)

The Spirit seems to be consistently reminding me of the "personal" connection and reality of the entrance of Christ into this world. Jesus came to earth. Jesus ministered to various individuals as well as large crowds which were made up of individuals. Jesus took on the sins of the world which by the way included my sins as well as your sins. Jesus offered His life on the cross that I may have the opportunity to receive the gift of eternal life. Does any of the previous sentences lead you to believe that Jesus was detached from His purpose and His calling? Rather my personal reflections should cause us to remember and definitely realize that Jesus was very much "connected" with His purpose and with His call!!!

Sunday we will celebrate Palm Sunday and one week later we will celebrate Easter Sunday. In between those two days we will reflect on and remember what we reference as Good Friday. Good Friday takes us to the foot of the cross as we look into the face of the Suffering Savior. We can never forget the fact that the Suffering Savior preceded the Resurrected Savior. He suffered that we might overcome the suffering and heartache of this world.

We are approaching one of the most if not the important Biblical reminder for all of humanity. What are we preparing our hearts to remember? We must prepare our hearts to remember more than just a series of Christian holidays. We are preparing our hearts to revisit and remember the genuine purpose of the birth of Jesus Christ!!

We need to change the words that we use when we describe the entrance of Christ into this world. He did not just die for “them.” He did more than just die for “us.” He did more than just die for the “church.” He did more than just die for the "world." Each of these statements is true to say the least but we need to add this sentence to our vocabulary. Would you read these words out loud with me? “JESUS DIED FOR ME!!!” Doesn’t that make you feel better? Despite everything that you are facing; despite everything that you have faced and despite everything that you may face; you and I must remember this fact; GOD LOVES ME AND GOD LOVES YOU!!!  Regardless of your situation or my situation and regardless of what you or I are feeling (emotional condition); you must remember that you are secure in the hands of God and that you are precious (valuable, rare, prized) to Him.  

Thoughts on Thursday

Today's post will reflect on those thoughts that God has been placing in my heart throughout this season of Lent. I have been encouraging our church to take the 40 days between Ash Wednesday and Resurrection Sunday and reconnect with the "true" story of Jesus Christ. I am glad to report that the story of the death as well as the Resurrection of Jesus Christ is not "fake news" but I can report that JESUS CHRIST IS ALIVE!! 

I have been taking the approach to remember the personal side of the Easter story. Jesus Christ died for me and I do not say those words arrogantly or with a self-righteous overtone. I say those words with sincere worship and appreciation. Jesus died that I could have a personal, life-changing relationship with Him. Jesus died that I could enjoy the blessing of that relationship with Him as I travel the road of life. Jesus died that I could live in faith and live with hope as I travel my path of life. Jesus died that He could reveal that He was interested in me and that He would actively participate in my life if I allowed Him to abide in my heart and life. Jesus died that I could look forward to the day that He would welcome me to spend eternity in His presence in Heaven. Let me add that those are just a few of the PERSONAL REASONS that I celebrate Christ on a daily basis!!!

I read this passage of scripture today and I would like to share it with you. I John 3:16, “By this we know love, because He laid down His life for us. And we also ought to lay down our lives for the brethren.” (NKJV) (Emphasis Added)

Words from a song that I remember as a young Christian have been resonating in my heart this morning:

"Were you there when they crucified my Lord?

  Were you there when they crucified my Lord?

  Were you there when they crucified my Lord?

  Sometime it causes me to tremble, tremble, tremble!!"

  Were you there when they nailed Him to a tree?

  Were you there when they nailed Him to a tree?

  Were you there when they nailed Him to a tree?

  Sometime it causes me to tremble, tremble, tremble!!"

How long has it been since we have trembled when we remember what He did for us at Calvary?