I've been struggling with a concept lately. Many of you may be familiar with the concept of Confirmation in the church. Ours is a little bit different than the Catholic practice but some of the elements are the same. It is a spiritual journey that a student goes through involving classes, activities, worship services, and small groups. At the end the student gets a chance to become baptized and accept Jesus as their savior. They also became members of the church. It is a great process and most christian denominations have something similar. I really enjoy that the students become full members of the body of Christ because they actually understand what that means.
My struggle is that I look at the verse in 1 Corinthians 12 and see how we are all a body of Christ and then look at how we carry the weight for each other. If I were to take these scriptures and digest them that means that those who work hard in God's kingdom help do the work for those who don't carry their weight. The 80/20 rule, 20% of the people do 80% of the work. As a ministry worker, this can be frustrating to watch. I would love to accept this figure and say it is just normal. But Christ didn't call us to be normal! He calls us to step up and go beyond. So my questions is, if so many people are reading the same Bible I am, then how come so many people aren't moved to serve in the world around them? It's actually quite perplexing. This is something I have been praying about for quite some time. I know there are simple answers to this, but I don't accept those. There has to be a deeper reason.
As you read the devotional for today, think about that. Think about how you take in the scripture. If your faith is a critical part of your life, how are you responding to the scriptures and its guidance?
Day 34
Scripture
2 Timothy 3: 12-17
- Before Reading the scripture today; Pray and ask the spirit to guide you in the reading:
- 12 In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted, 13 while evildoers and impostors will go from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived. 14 But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, because you know those from whom you learned it, 15 and how from infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. 16 All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, 17 so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.
Wisdom
- Paul is assuring Timothy that he will be protected from the evils of this world if he keeps the word close to his heart. Earlier in this chapter Paul tells Timothy that people will be proud, lovers of themselves, abusive, disobedient to their parents, lovers of money, lovers of pleasure, unholy, and without love. I broke the list down a bit because Paul uses a lot more adjectives. But Paul tells Timothy that everyone who wants to live a Godly life will be persecuted, and to protect yourself from that you must use the scriptures.
- I love verse 16. It is so important to our faith. Read it again. It reminds us that we must use the Bible for all that we do; to teach, to hold each other accountable, to fix our ways, and to grow closer to God.
- Do you know what God Breathed means? It’s not just a way to say that the words on the pages are from God, but also a way to say that God speaks to you through the word! Imagine living in a world where we can have a one-on-one interaction with God. How awesome would it be to have the creator of the universe as your confidant and best friend? Well the scriptures are the closest thing we have to that.
- Though the concept is controversial to some people, I believe the scriptures are completely true and given to us by God. It is just that we, with our imperfect minds, misinterpret much of the love and guidance on the pages. Studying scripture doesn’t mean just reading it and quickly applying it, you have to study it, look up context, see who God is talking to, and then see how it applies to us today. These can be tough concepts, but hey, this is our Faith, it is the most important aspect of our lives! We have to work hard at it!
Apply
- Do you believe that all scripture is God Breathed? Meaning it is all accurate and true?
- Can you imagine God speaking to you through the scriptures? Giving you firm but loving advice?
Prayer
- Pray to God as if He was your best friend sitting right next to you. Have a conversation with Him. Thank Him for giving you the opportunity to daily talk to Him. Ask Him to guide you in your reading of the Word. Pray the He protects you from everything in this world that can hurt you.
Monday, April 7, 2014
Sunday, April 6, 2014
40 Day Devotionals 2014 Day 33
I'm not going to say much today. The devotional is a fairly deep one. Plus, I am exhausted from another day of baby registry stuff! I know all about bottles, diapers, strollers and car seats! Anyone need any help? I'm a minor expert now! Why are baby clothes more expensive than my clothes? How am I supposed to save money for the kids college fund if I spend it all in clothes? Geez!
Anyhow, the devotional today is very challenging and introspective. I hope it hits home for many of us. The point is to look inward and reflect on our salvation before we practice our faith. Sometimes the sword of truth can be unnecessarily painful.
Day 33
Scripture
Ezekiel 36: 25-27
- Before Reading the scripture today; Pray and ask the spirit to guide you in the reading:
- 1 25 I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you will be clean; I will cleanse you from all your impurities and from all your idols. 26 I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh. 27 And I will put my Spirit in you and move you to follow my decrees and be careful to keep my laws.
Wisdom
- As I read this passage in Ezekiel I can’t help but think of a caterpillar that comes out of a cocoon and has new life. It feels like that first time when we first accept Jesus’ Salvation into our lives gives us that same feeling. We are “born again” with a new life. A life that is forgiven, follows Christ, and upholds and respects His word. Our whole life God prepares us to be more like Jesus. This process, known as sanctification, is a journey that lasts until we get to Heaven.
- What is important to note that in order to follow the scripture from yesterday is that we have to always keep our Salvation in mind. We have to remember that we must remain in Christ in order to serve Him and His people. I would recommend that if you see trouble in the faith, not just our church, you check your heart first. Just jumping the gun and forgetting that we are all cleansed by His blood is not only bad for you, but it is bad for the body of Christ.
- I would make it a 3 point to remember process. 1. Be in your scripture and know the truth. 2. Check your call. Be praying constantly. Make sure what you have set out to do is the work of the Lord. 3. Seek spiritual guidance from elders such as Pastors and spiritual leaders. Check in regularly to make sure you haven’t strayed from the course.
- If you remember these 3 things and remember that we are all saved, you will have better direction in all that you do in Christ. You won’t go mindlessly challenging people but you will pray and check yourself before stepping forward. Remember, it is not your responsibility to just call people out. It is our responsibility to hold our brothers and sisters accountable. You can only do that through relationships.
- Our lives with Him are a lifelong process. Though the Lord sees you and me as followers we still have the ability to Sin. Thankfully the Spirit is here to guide and direct us to be more like Jesus.
Apply
- Do you still remember the time when you gave your life to Christ?
- Believing in His grace takes personal action; are you working for Him, studying his word, and talking to Him regularly?
- Have you spent time building better relationships with the people in your church?
Prayer
- Stop and think of the time when you first came to know Christ. Even if you have known your whole life there has to be a time where you accepted His Salvation into your life. Thank the Lord for what He has done for you. Ask Him to be with you daily in your walk. Pray that the Spirit stay with you, always reminding you of your new life in Christ.
Anyhow, the devotional today is very challenging and introspective. I hope it hits home for many of us. The point is to look inward and reflect on our salvation before we practice our faith. Sometimes the sword of truth can be unnecessarily painful.
Day 33
Scripture
Ezekiel 36: 25-27
- Before Reading the scripture today; Pray and ask the spirit to guide you in the reading:
- 1 25 I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you will be clean; I will cleanse you from all your impurities and from all your idols. 26 I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh. 27 And I will put my Spirit in you and move you to follow my decrees and be careful to keep my laws.
Wisdom
- As I read this passage in Ezekiel I can’t help but think of a caterpillar that comes out of a cocoon and has new life. It feels like that first time when we first accept Jesus’ Salvation into our lives gives us that same feeling. We are “born again” with a new life. A life that is forgiven, follows Christ, and upholds and respects His word. Our whole life God prepares us to be more like Jesus. This process, known as sanctification, is a journey that lasts until we get to Heaven.
- What is important to note that in order to follow the scripture from yesterday is that we have to always keep our Salvation in mind. We have to remember that we must remain in Christ in order to serve Him and His people. I would recommend that if you see trouble in the faith, not just our church, you check your heart first. Just jumping the gun and forgetting that we are all cleansed by His blood is not only bad for you, but it is bad for the body of Christ.
- I would make it a 3 point to remember process. 1. Be in your scripture and know the truth. 2. Check your call. Be praying constantly. Make sure what you have set out to do is the work of the Lord. 3. Seek spiritual guidance from elders such as Pastors and spiritual leaders. Check in regularly to make sure you haven’t strayed from the course.
- If you remember these 3 things and remember that we are all saved, you will have better direction in all that you do in Christ. You won’t go mindlessly challenging people but you will pray and check yourself before stepping forward. Remember, it is not your responsibility to just call people out. It is our responsibility to hold our brothers and sisters accountable. You can only do that through relationships.
- Our lives with Him are a lifelong process. Though the Lord sees you and me as followers we still have the ability to Sin. Thankfully the Spirit is here to guide and direct us to be more like Jesus.
Apply
- Do you still remember the time when you gave your life to Christ?
- Believing in His grace takes personal action; are you working for Him, studying his word, and talking to Him regularly?
- Have you spent time building better relationships with the people in your church?
Prayer
- Stop and think of the time when you first came to know Christ. Even if you have known your whole life there has to be a time where you accepted His Salvation into your life. Thank the Lord for what He has done for you. Ask Him to be with you daily in your walk. Pray that the Spirit stay with you, always reminding you of your new life in Christ.
Saturday, April 5, 2014
40 Day Devotionals 2014 Day 32
I am helpless in helping my wife through this difficult time :-( She has had an upset tummy and been sick quite a bit for the last few days. She has had this off and on throughout the pregnancy. Everyone says that it may get better. It is now into month 5 and yet things haven't really gotten too much better. I feel helpless in the situation. As a guy, I want to fix it, as the cliche goes. But those who know me know that for me it is not about fixing, it is about comfort. I know the sacrifice and commitment my wife made when we decided to have kids. I just want the struggle to go away for such a loving act. All I can do is hug her and provide for her. Hopefully the "ick" will pass. Pray that it does.
I cannot stand it when there is bickering amongst people over nothing. Usually the problems can be solved with good communication and loving actions.
Lately, I have noticed some people having issues. I have listened to different people share their side of the story. It is actually kind of interesting. Neither side is "right", which is usually the case. However each person thinks they know whats going on and who is the main problem. Here is the kicker, no one has really talked to each other. They just keep causing more problems, makings cliques, and hurting feelings. It will explode soon if it isn't fixed.
The sad part is, they are all friends. Hence the devotional.
Day 30
Scripture
Galatians 6:1-5
- Before Reading the scripture today; Pray and ask the spirit to guide you in the reading:
- Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted. 2 Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. 3 If anyone thinks they are something when they are not, they deceive themselves. 4 Each one should test their own actions. Then they can take pride in themselves alone, without comparing themselves to someone else, 5 for each one should carry their own load.
Wisdom
- Have you ever witnessed when people are mean to each other in the church? Or other Christians acting inappropriately? People taking sides and destroying relationships, people not appreciating help, looking out for only themselves, exploiting other people. Don’t these things happening in the House of God make a horrible witness to the outside world?
- People leave the church or youth group constantly. I would argue that most of the times it is because of lack of good communication amongst the people. Someone’s feelings were hurt, someone didn’t like a teaching, and someone was doing something they shouldn’t. All these things and so much more were happening, but no one ever discussed these things in love. That is the key, in love! Paul says to the church to do it gently.
- I’m sure everyone can think of a time in their own life where a relationship was destroyed because no one did anything to fix it. They just let the arguments happen, things got bad, and people went their separate ways. This is not God’s design.
- Like the unity of God in the Trinity, we are supposed to be many people as one unit; functioning for His glory. It is time to be ready to call these things out before they become destructive. If you see your brothers and sisters in Christ causing problems, be ready to hold them accountable; using scripture and spiritual elders as your guide and help.
Apply
- Have you ever watched as something bad happened around you? What did you do?
- Are their problems amongst your friends or family that need to be settled and resolved?
- Are you comfortable enough in your faith to challenge others using people you trust?
Prayer
- Pray to the Lord that he protects you and the people in your world from destruction; whether it be from within or outside. Ask God to give you the strength and wisdom to follow through on His commands. Ask the Lord to give you guidance on how to resolve issues in your relationships.
I cannot stand it when there is bickering amongst people over nothing. Usually the problems can be solved with good communication and loving actions.
Lately, I have noticed some people having issues. I have listened to different people share their side of the story. It is actually kind of interesting. Neither side is "right", which is usually the case. However each person thinks they know whats going on and who is the main problem. Here is the kicker, no one has really talked to each other. They just keep causing more problems, makings cliques, and hurting feelings. It will explode soon if it isn't fixed.
The sad part is, they are all friends. Hence the devotional.
Day 30
Scripture
Galatians 6:1-5
- Before Reading the scripture today; Pray and ask the spirit to guide you in the reading:
- Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted. 2 Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. 3 If anyone thinks they are something when they are not, they deceive themselves. 4 Each one should test their own actions. Then they can take pride in themselves alone, without comparing themselves to someone else, 5 for each one should carry their own load.
Wisdom
- Have you ever witnessed when people are mean to each other in the church? Or other Christians acting inappropriately? People taking sides and destroying relationships, people not appreciating help, looking out for only themselves, exploiting other people. Don’t these things happening in the House of God make a horrible witness to the outside world?
- People leave the church or youth group constantly. I would argue that most of the times it is because of lack of good communication amongst the people. Someone’s feelings were hurt, someone didn’t like a teaching, and someone was doing something they shouldn’t. All these things and so much more were happening, but no one ever discussed these things in love. That is the key, in love! Paul says to the church to do it gently.
- I’m sure everyone can think of a time in their own life where a relationship was destroyed because no one did anything to fix it. They just let the arguments happen, things got bad, and people went their separate ways. This is not God’s design.
- Like the unity of God in the Trinity, we are supposed to be many people as one unit; functioning for His glory. It is time to be ready to call these things out before they become destructive. If you see your brothers and sisters in Christ causing problems, be ready to hold them accountable; using scripture and spiritual elders as your guide and help.
Apply
- Have you ever watched as something bad happened around you? What did you do?
- Are their problems amongst your friends or family that need to be settled and resolved?
- Are you comfortable enough in your faith to challenge others using people you trust?
Prayer
- Pray to the Lord that he protects you and the people in your world from destruction; whether it be from within or outside. Ask God to give you the strength and wisdom to follow through on His commands. Ask the Lord to give you guidance on how to resolve issues in your relationships.
Friday, April 4, 2014
40 Day Devotionals 2014 Day 31
No, we do not have a baby name yet. At this point in the pregnancy, everyone I know is asking if we have a name picked out yet. Then someone comes to me today and tells me a story of how one of their friends (isn't always a "friend?") found out it was a baby, registered for pink things, painted a pink room, bought pink dresses, had a girls name picked out, only to have a boy!
Now I hope God is going to play such a cruel joke on me. Don't get me wrong, I probably deserve it. I don't think playing a prank on us is above God, He needs to laugh too. He invented the art so why can't He also prank us? Yet, I still hope something like that doesn't happen. I would be a little mad.
I will tell you this though. I am tired of making decisions on all these life choices! I know I have to push on and keep going, but it is so hard! It is mentally draining! I was absolutely exhausted today; both mentally and physically. On top of that there is drama in different parts of my life that I wish would just go away. People tend to make problems when there aren't any. Why do we love to wallow in our sin? I am definitely giving this one to God. I don't need drama in my life. I am having a baby girl, I will have enough of that in due time!
Day 31
Scripture
Matthew 11:28-30
- Before Reading the scripture today; Pray and ask the spirit to guide you in the reading:
- “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
Wisdom
- I love how Jesus is speaking to us personally in this passage. It almost feels like he was talking to us individually. Read the passage, thinking about the words that speak to you personally. Which ones are they; “Come to me,” “I will give you rest,” “learn from me,” “I am gentle, “my yoke is easy and burden is light.”
- So many can apply to where we may be in different parts of our lives. Jesus is just asking us to hang out with Him. Spend some time being with Him.
- I want you to walk with Jesus. Literally. Stand up, and walk with Jesus in your mind. Repeating these words, “I will give you rest, I am gentle.” Do this for a few minutes.
- Don’t you feel relieved?
Apply
- What would it feel like to walk and work with Jesus?
- Do you fear that working for Jesus may make heavier burdens on you?
- Do you walk with Jesus in your daily life?
- How can you give all your cares and burdens to Jesus?
- Try this; take a moment and talk to Jesus as if He was sitting across from you having a cup of coffee with you. Talk to Him about life, love, stress, joys, praises, stress, complain, and thank Him.
Prayer
- Ask the Lord to help you walk with him daily. Talk to Him one on one, like if He was sitting right in front of you. What do you need to unload on Him? What can you tell your best friend today about your life? Nothing is too big or too small for him to listen to.
Now I hope God is going to play such a cruel joke on me. Don't get me wrong, I probably deserve it. I don't think playing a prank on us is above God, He needs to laugh too. He invented the art so why can't He also prank us? Yet, I still hope something like that doesn't happen. I would be a little mad.
I will tell you this though. I am tired of making decisions on all these life choices! I know I have to push on and keep going, but it is so hard! It is mentally draining! I was absolutely exhausted today; both mentally and physically. On top of that there is drama in different parts of my life that I wish would just go away. People tend to make problems when there aren't any. Why do we love to wallow in our sin? I am definitely giving this one to God. I don't need drama in my life. I am having a baby girl, I will have enough of that in due time!
Day 31
Scripture
Matthew 11:28-30
- Before Reading the scripture today; Pray and ask the spirit to guide you in the reading:
- “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
Wisdom
- I love how Jesus is speaking to us personally in this passage. It almost feels like he was talking to us individually. Read the passage, thinking about the words that speak to you personally. Which ones are they; “Come to me,” “I will give you rest,” “learn from me,” “I am gentle, “my yoke is easy and burden is light.”
- So many can apply to where we may be in different parts of our lives. Jesus is just asking us to hang out with Him. Spend some time being with Him.
- I want you to walk with Jesus. Literally. Stand up, and walk with Jesus in your mind. Repeating these words, “I will give you rest, I am gentle.” Do this for a few minutes.
- Don’t you feel relieved?
Apply
- What would it feel like to walk and work with Jesus?
- Do you fear that working for Jesus may make heavier burdens on you?
- Do you walk with Jesus in your daily life?
- How can you give all your cares and burdens to Jesus?
- Try this; take a moment and talk to Jesus as if He was sitting across from you having a cup of coffee with you. Talk to Him about life, love, stress, joys, praises, stress, complain, and thank Him.
Prayer
- Ask the Lord to help you walk with him daily. Talk to Him one on one, like if He was sitting right in front of you. What do you need to unload on Him? What can you tell your best friend today about your life? Nothing is too big or too small for him to listen to.
Thursday, April 3, 2014
40 Day Devotionals 2014 Day 30
I am exhausted! Have I said that before? I feel like I have. I have had a busy week driving to and from the Youth Pastor Summit. I will write thoughts about that later. I had a lot of catching up to do in the office. I still do. Hence why the devotional for today didn't get up. So here is a one for you!
Day 30
Scripture
John 5:1-9
- Before Reading the scripture today; Pray and ask the spirit to guide you in the reading:
- 1 Some time later, Jesus went up to Jerusalem for one of the Jewish festivals. 2 Now there is in Jerusalem near the Sheep Gate a pool, which in Aramaic is called Bethesda[a] and which is surrounded by five covered colonnades. 3 Here a great number of disabled people used to lie—the blind, the lame, the paralyzed. [4] 5 One who was there had been an invalid for thirty-eight years. 6 When Jesus saw him lying there and learned that he had been in this condition for a long time, he asked him, “Do you want to get well?” 7 “Sir,” the invalid replied, “I have no one to help me into the pool when the water is stirred. While I am trying to get in, someone else goes down ahead of me.” 8 Then Jesus said to him, “Get up! Pick up your mat and walk.” 9 At once the man was cured; he picked up his mat and walked. The day on which this took place was a Sabbath,
Wisdom
- Sometimes, even when we aren’t sick, we feel like we aren’t complete. That we are not all there. Perhaps there is a part of your life where you don’t feel complete. Reading this passage, think about that. Read the passage again thinking about some aspects of your life that need fulfillment. Why would the Holy Spirit bring these things to your attention? Jesus is asking, “Do you not want to be made well of your problem?”
- Jesus healed the man immediately even though he complained and said that no one was willing to help him. Don’t you think Jesus will help you if you have the faith that He can? Really think about where your life is and what part of it needs to be complete. Perhaps you need to let go of something in your life to allow healing to happen. Perhaps it’s the idea that you are victim, or that no one is helping you, or that you don’t have the ability. The reality is God works above and beyond all of those limitations.
Apply
- Are there times in your life where you are just getting in your own way; complaining, suffering, holding yourself back? How can you motivate yourself to a place of Faith?
- Do you have the faith to give your illnesses; physical, mental, emotional or social, to Jesus so that He can heal them?
Prayer
- Praise Jesus for helping us daily. Ask Him to heal your problems and illnesses; physical, mental, and emotional. Ask Jesus to reveal to you what is holding you back to have the faith to have Him heal everything in your life. Ask the Lord for patience to let Him heal you in his time.
Day 30
Scripture
John 5:1-9
- Before Reading the scripture today; Pray and ask the spirit to guide you in the reading:
- 1 Some time later, Jesus went up to Jerusalem for one of the Jewish festivals. 2 Now there is in Jerusalem near the Sheep Gate a pool, which in Aramaic is called Bethesda[a] and which is surrounded by five covered colonnades. 3 Here a great number of disabled people used to lie—the blind, the lame, the paralyzed. [4] 5 One who was there had been an invalid for thirty-eight years. 6 When Jesus saw him lying there and learned that he had been in this condition for a long time, he asked him, “Do you want to get well?” 7 “Sir,” the invalid replied, “I have no one to help me into the pool when the water is stirred. While I am trying to get in, someone else goes down ahead of me.” 8 Then Jesus said to him, “Get up! Pick up your mat and walk.” 9 At once the man was cured; he picked up his mat and walked. The day on which this took place was a Sabbath,
Wisdom
- Sometimes, even when we aren’t sick, we feel like we aren’t complete. That we are not all there. Perhaps there is a part of your life where you don’t feel complete. Reading this passage, think about that. Read the passage again thinking about some aspects of your life that need fulfillment. Why would the Holy Spirit bring these things to your attention? Jesus is asking, “Do you not want to be made well of your problem?”
- Jesus healed the man immediately even though he complained and said that no one was willing to help him. Don’t you think Jesus will help you if you have the faith that He can? Really think about where your life is and what part of it needs to be complete. Perhaps you need to let go of something in your life to allow healing to happen. Perhaps it’s the idea that you are victim, or that no one is helping you, or that you don’t have the ability. The reality is God works above and beyond all of those limitations.
Apply
- Are there times in your life where you are just getting in your own way; complaining, suffering, holding yourself back? How can you motivate yourself to a place of Faith?
- Do you have the faith to give your illnesses; physical, mental, emotional or social, to Jesus so that He can heal them?
Prayer
- Praise Jesus for helping us daily. Ask Him to heal your problems and illnesses; physical, mental, and emotional. Ask Jesus to reveal to you what is holding you back to have the faith to have Him heal everything in your life. Ask the Lord for patience to let Him heal you in his time.
Wednesday, April 2, 2014
40 Day Devotionals 2014 Day 29
There may or may not be a blog entry today. This is being written in the past (isn't the internet trippy, I am writing to the future!!). I am returning from the Youth Pastor Summit in Orlando and will more than likely be needing some rest. Yes I rest. So sue me....Ok, don't sue me, I'm having a baby, I need money for her.
But I still gave you a devotional, aren't I great!
It is a fantastic devotional. It is about the Holy Spirit. If you would like to talk more about it, please do not hesitate to contact me in any way possible. The Spirit is the most neglected concept in our Faith. I say this because we should be far more aware of it then we really are.
Day 29
Scripture
John 14: 15-17
- Before Reading the scripture today; Pray and ask the Spirit to guide you in the reading:
- “If you love me, keep my commands. 16 And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever— 17 the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be[a] in you.
Wisdom
- The Holy Spirit is the most neglected person in the trinity. But He might be the most important person for us today. Jesus said that He is leaving us with a friend to guide us now that He is going to Heaven to be with the Father. That friend is the Spirit. The Spirit will help us in everything that we do. He will help us understand scripture, He will help us lead people to Christ, He will help us in our daily walks, He will protect us from the devil, and He will Help us stay committed to Christ,
- As you walk, drive, study, work, and interact with people, stay especially mindful of your Friend, the Spirit. Call on Him for guidance in everything; the words you speak and the decisions you make.
- I cannot function without the recognition of the Holy Spirit in my life. That doesn't make me weak to admit that. It makes me powerful. I know that I need the Holy Spirit to do the work of God, but more importantly, I need the Holy Spirit to perform the Love of God. I love the gifts He gives me. I hate the challenges he puts in front of me at times. I know that all He does for me makes me a better man, and a man of God.
Apply
- Is it hard for you to imagine the Holy Spirit as a friend? Why or why not?
- What does it mean to you to have the Holy Spirit guide you? Is it comforting? Frustrating? Annoying? Amazing?
- How can you grow in awareness that God has sent His Spirit to be with you?
Prayer
- Ask the Holy Spirit, your Friend, to make Himself obvious in your life. Ask Him to be with you daily in your walk. Pray to the Lord and ask Him to help you remember and understand the ways of the Spirit and the words he told the Disciples in the scriptures. Pray that you rely on the Spirit more.
But I still gave you a devotional, aren't I great!
It is a fantastic devotional. It is about the Holy Spirit. If you would like to talk more about it, please do not hesitate to contact me in any way possible. The Spirit is the most neglected concept in our Faith. I say this because we should be far more aware of it then we really are.
Day 29
Scripture
John 14: 15-17
- Before Reading the scripture today; Pray and ask the Spirit to guide you in the reading:
- “If you love me, keep my commands. 16 And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever— 17 the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be[a] in you.
Wisdom
- The Holy Spirit is the most neglected person in the trinity. But He might be the most important person for us today. Jesus said that He is leaving us with a friend to guide us now that He is going to Heaven to be with the Father. That friend is the Spirit. The Spirit will help us in everything that we do. He will help us understand scripture, He will help us lead people to Christ, He will help us in our daily walks, He will protect us from the devil, and He will Help us stay committed to Christ,
- As you walk, drive, study, work, and interact with people, stay especially mindful of your Friend, the Spirit. Call on Him for guidance in everything; the words you speak and the decisions you make.
- I cannot function without the recognition of the Holy Spirit in my life. That doesn't make me weak to admit that. It makes me powerful. I know that I need the Holy Spirit to do the work of God, but more importantly, I need the Holy Spirit to perform the Love of God. I love the gifts He gives me. I hate the challenges he puts in front of me at times. I know that all He does for me makes me a better man, and a man of God.
Apply
- Is it hard for you to imagine the Holy Spirit as a friend? Why or why not?
- What does it mean to you to have the Holy Spirit guide you? Is it comforting? Frustrating? Annoying? Amazing?
- How can you grow in awareness that God has sent His Spirit to be with you?
Prayer
- Ask the Holy Spirit, your Friend, to make Himself obvious in your life. Ask Him to be with you daily in your walk. Pray to the Lord and ask Him to help you remember and understand the ways of the Spirit and the words he told the Disciples in the scriptures. Pray that you rely on the Spirit more.
Tuesday, April 1, 2014
40 Day Devotionals 2014 Day 28
I have been challenged by myself a lot in life. I tend to hold myself to a really high standard, spiritually speaking. However I see myself fail, and gloriously fail. For some reason I cannot live up to my own standards. I was beginning to start feeling guilty and let down by it.
I stopped, pondered, and realized. I do this because I can never repay Jesus for what He has done for me. I can't feed every homeless person, I can't help every teen through a breakup or a family/social disaster, I can't tell every single person about Jesus (I felt guilty writing that last one). I have limitations. I realize this though. The limitations are there for a reason. It is because God does want me to have a life outside of ministry. I do have to build quality relationships with my friends and family, I do need to spend quality time by myself, I do need to spend quality time with God Himself. If I am constantly a minister for God, I cannot spend time enjoying God sometime. I literally busy and burden myself with doing good. Sometimes it is okay to stop and just pray and reflect, smell the roses, or take a vacation.
It doesn't stop me from seeing the people around me. I realized that when I take time for myself, my family and friends, and for God, I saw people around me as people of God. I was able to have fresh eyes, and see where my talents and skills were really meant to be used. It's actually pretty awesome! You should definitely try it!
Day 28
Scripture
Matthew 25:31-40
- Before Reading the scripture today; Pray and ask the spirit to guide you in the reading:
- 31 “When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit on his glorious throne. 32 All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. 33 He will put the sheep on his right and the goats on his left.
- 34 “Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. 35 For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, 36 I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’
- 37 “Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? 38 When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? 39 When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’
- 40 “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’
Wisdom
- If there ever was a reason to help others, this is it. It clearly states that Jesus, in His return, will separate the sheep (His followers) from the goats (non-believers) according to their willingness to serve His people. I have always believed that believing in salvation can’t just be ignored. It is hard to think about what Jesus has done for us and not want to return the favor. And what better way to do that then to help and serve everyone; the very people Jesus came to save.
- Being a Christian means to follow Jesus. Doing that means to do what He did. As you go and serve the people who have been overlooked and ignored, be mindful of the presence of Jesus.
Apply
- Who are the overlooked and ignored in your life?
- In what ways is God asking you to give someone food, drink, a place to sleep, shelter, perhaps a visit to someone sick or hurting?
- Are you willing to serve?
Prayer
- Stop and meditate on this scripture. Ask Jesus to make clear to you the people you need to serve or help. Ask Jesus to help you understand where you fit into His kingdom and how He sees you working for him. Pray on this for some time.
I stopped, pondered, and realized. I do this because I can never repay Jesus for what He has done for me. I can't feed every homeless person, I can't help every teen through a breakup or a family/social disaster, I can't tell every single person about Jesus (I felt guilty writing that last one). I have limitations. I realize this though. The limitations are there for a reason. It is because God does want me to have a life outside of ministry. I do have to build quality relationships with my friends and family, I do need to spend quality time by myself, I do need to spend quality time with God Himself. If I am constantly a minister for God, I cannot spend time enjoying God sometime. I literally busy and burden myself with doing good. Sometimes it is okay to stop and just pray and reflect, smell the roses, or take a vacation.
It doesn't stop me from seeing the people around me. I realized that when I take time for myself, my family and friends, and for God, I saw people around me as people of God. I was able to have fresh eyes, and see where my talents and skills were really meant to be used. It's actually pretty awesome! You should definitely try it!
Day 28
Scripture
Matthew 25:31-40
- Before Reading the scripture today; Pray and ask the spirit to guide you in the reading:
- 31 “When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit on his glorious throne. 32 All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. 33 He will put the sheep on his right and the goats on his left.
- 34 “Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. 35 For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, 36 I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’
- 37 “Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? 38 When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? 39 When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’
- 40 “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’
Wisdom
- If there ever was a reason to help others, this is it. It clearly states that Jesus, in His return, will separate the sheep (His followers) from the goats (non-believers) according to their willingness to serve His people. I have always believed that believing in salvation can’t just be ignored. It is hard to think about what Jesus has done for us and not want to return the favor. And what better way to do that then to help and serve everyone; the very people Jesus came to save.
- Being a Christian means to follow Jesus. Doing that means to do what He did. As you go and serve the people who have been overlooked and ignored, be mindful of the presence of Jesus.
Apply
- Who are the overlooked and ignored in your life?
- In what ways is God asking you to give someone food, drink, a place to sleep, shelter, perhaps a visit to someone sick or hurting?
- Are you willing to serve?
Prayer
- Stop and meditate on this scripture. Ask Jesus to make clear to you the people you need to serve or help. Ask Jesus to help you understand where you fit into His kingdom and how He sees you working for him. Pray on this for some time.
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