032508:
Joshua 21:45 Not one of all the Lord's good promises to the house of Israel failed; every one was fulfilled.
1 Corinthians 10:10 And do not grumble, as some of them did - and were killed by the destroying angel.
In Joshua 21:43-45 it says that the Lord gave Israel the promised land, He gave them rest on all sides of that land, and He made sure they gained victory over their enemies. Every single promise the Lord made, He fulfilled. All God's promises are good. In 1 Corinthians 10, Paul is warning the Corinthians by reminding them of Israel's past mistakes. He mentioned the times when the Israelites grumbled and the destroying angel killed them.
In Japanese, there is a term for grumbling called monku monku. My mom would tell me not to monku monku when we were standing in front of other people as sort of a code. It meant that I should just be content and grateful. Today, I have been plagued by a grumbling spirit. I started complaining in my heart and to myself, but God hears my thoughts as clearly as my words. I'd better check my heart and clean it right now. God's promises are all good and He will fulfill them.
Heavenly Father, please forgive me for grumbling. Lord, all Your promises are good and You want to fulfill them. I want Your will above all else. I love You. Change me, Lord. Thank You for Your good plans for my life. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Monday, March 24, 2008
Partaking in the Sabbath
032408: What a wonderful start to a Sabbath day. God is so good. I know that it will be a sort of challenge today to keep away from working for my behalf. I am such a busy body. Today I must keep in God's rest. There lay all the blessings and strength I need.
1 Corinthians 9:10Or does He speak certainly and entirely for our sakes? [Assuredly] it is written for our sakes, because the plowman ought to plow in hope, and the thresher ought to thresh in expectation of partaking of the harvest.
Paul is telling the Corinthians that each person and thing that produces expects and hopes in taking part of their efforts. God has designed us this way. God's law even says that oxen must not be muzzled when the are treading out the corn so that they may graze and eat a little while doing their work. God wants us to enjoy the work of His hands and the work of our own hands.
I have to admit that I still struggle with taking a Sabbath, but I am really trying to be better. I want to be glad for the Sabbath instead of feeling like it is keeping me from doing God's work. As I rest in the Lord today, I will be accomplishing a very good thing, which is building up my character, obedience, and self-control. I have all these urges to make lists, check my email, organize my planner, etc. However, God is clearly telling me that today is the day I am supposed to enjoy and delight in the Lord. I shouldn't try to produce more stuff today. I should rest and refresh my spirit, mind, and body. This is a day that I hoped for throughout all of last week. This is a day that I expected to gain rest in. Now, I must allow God's promise to be fulfilled by refraining from my own efforts. God is in total control, not me. He will keep this day holy, if I stay close to Him and depend totally on Him.
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your sovereignty. I thank You for Your grace and Your goodness. Lord, please forgive me. I want to honor You completely during this Holy day. I love You and I depend on You for everything, Lord. May I refrain at all times from taking matters into my own hands. You are in control. Please refresh me and renew me. I am Yours. In the name of Jesus Christ I pray, Amen.
1 Corinthians 9:10Or does He speak certainly and entirely for our sakes? [Assuredly] it is written for our sakes, because the plowman ought to plow in hope, and the thresher ought to thresh in expectation of partaking of the harvest.
Paul is telling the Corinthians that each person and thing that produces expects and hopes in taking part of their efforts. God has designed us this way. God's law even says that oxen must not be muzzled when the are treading out the corn so that they may graze and eat a little while doing their work. God wants us to enjoy the work of His hands and the work of our own hands.
I have to admit that I still struggle with taking a Sabbath, but I am really trying to be better. I want to be glad for the Sabbath instead of feeling like it is keeping me from doing God's work. As I rest in the Lord today, I will be accomplishing a very good thing, which is building up my character, obedience, and self-control. I have all these urges to make lists, check my email, organize my planner, etc. However, God is clearly telling me that today is the day I am supposed to enjoy and delight in the Lord. I shouldn't try to produce more stuff today. I should rest and refresh my spirit, mind, and body. This is a day that I hoped for throughout all of last week. This is a day that I expected to gain rest in. Now, I must allow God's promise to be fulfilled by refraining from my own efforts. God is in total control, not me. He will keep this day holy, if I stay close to Him and depend totally on Him.
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your sovereignty. I thank You for Your grace and Your goodness. Lord, please forgive me. I want to honor You completely during this Holy day. I love You and I depend on You for everything, Lord. May I refrain at all times from taking matters into my own hands. You are in control. Please refresh me and renew me. I am Yours. In the name of Jesus Christ I pray, Amen.
Friday, March 21, 2008
Right from wrong
032108:Joshua 9:14So the [Israelite] men partook of their food and did not consult the Lord.
The neighboring countries surrounding the Israelites deceived them and so the Israelites made an oath to them without consulting the Lord first. However, once their lie was discovered, they became slaves to Israel.
1 Corinthians 6:3Do you not know also that we [Christians] are to judge the [very] angels and pronounce opinion between right and wrong [for them]? How much more then [as to] matters pertaining to this world and of this life only!
Paul just talked to the Corinthians about how he judges believers because they should know better. Now, he is explaining that the life we have on Earth is like practice for Heaven where we will be judges upon the world and even the angels.
I'm a bit torn because in Joshua, it seems like God would want us to always consult Him first. But, it seems that after we accept Christ, we need to already know what is right and wrong by Jesus' example. We should be able to judge for ourselves because we have eyes that see and ears that hear. I never would have thought that God would place us Christians as judges in the end. I think this also implies that men will teach angels about humanity. Could it be that Satan, the fallen angel just doesn't know right from wrong? Or because he has fallen, he does and chooses wrong for his selfish gain? Wow, the spiritual realm is beyond me! However, today, what I take away from this is that I must choose. I must know and learn what is righteous. I find this out by looking to Jesus' example.
Heavenly Father, Abba, I pray for Your forgiveness. Please help me to keep following Jesus's example. Jesus, thank You for being the perfect example. May I not judge others today unless it is with Your heart and mind. May there be nothing of myself today. I only want You. In the name of Jesus Christ I pray, Amen.
The neighboring countries surrounding the Israelites deceived them and so the Israelites made an oath to them without consulting the Lord first. However, once their lie was discovered, they became slaves to Israel.
1 Corinthians 6:3Do you not know also that we [Christians] are to judge the [very] angels and pronounce opinion between right and wrong [for them]? How much more then [as to] matters pertaining to this world and of this life only!
Paul just talked to the Corinthians about how he judges believers because they should know better. Now, he is explaining that the life we have on Earth is like practice for Heaven where we will be judges upon the world and even the angels.
I'm a bit torn because in Joshua, it seems like God would want us to always consult Him first. But, it seems that after we accept Christ, we need to already know what is right and wrong by Jesus' example. We should be able to judge for ourselves because we have eyes that see and ears that hear. I never would have thought that God would place us Christians as judges in the end. I think this also implies that men will teach angels about humanity. Could it be that Satan, the fallen angel just doesn't know right from wrong? Or because he has fallen, he does and chooses wrong for his selfish gain? Wow, the spiritual realm is beyond me! However, today, what I take away from this is that I must choose. I must know and learn what is righteous. I find this out by looking to Jesus' example.
Heavenly Father, Abba, I pray for Your forgiveness. Please help me to keep following Jesus's example. Jesus, thank You for being the perfect example. May I not judge others today unless it is with Your heart and mind. May there be nothing of myself today. I only want You. In the name of Jesus Christ I pray, Amen.
Thursday, March 20, 2008
Headache
Today, I have a headache. It might be a sinus infection. I need to take better care of my physical health. I know it's not a caffine headache because I did have coffee today. Maybe it is because I've had coffee for three days in a row that I am getting a headache.
Don't Disgrace Others
032008:
Psalm 69:6 May those who hope in you not be disgraced because of me, O Lord, the LORD Almighty; may those who seek you not be put to shame because of me, O God of Israel.
This is a psalm of David, but it sounds like it describes Jesus more so. I suppose David went through certain trials that would give him inspiration to write from the heart of Jesus. David essentially says to God in this verse, please do not allow me to cause another believer to be disgraced or put to shame. Disgraced means to bring shame or dishonor on or to deprive of favor or good repute; treat with disfavor. David is asking God to keep him from doing this, to keep him from judging and blaming others. When you take apart the word, it says, dis then graced. God's grace through Jesus is more than enough for us. We must allow God's grace to flow at all times.
I am so convicted. I have not been allowing God's grace to flow from me. Also, because of the carelessness of my tongue, I have caused, or possibly caused some fellow believers to be disgraced. I feel horrible. I never want to do that again. The cry of my heart today is this Psalm. I don't want to be a source of shame for others, non believer and believer alike. Today, I repent of my sin and I actively will pursue God's grace.
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your grace. Lord, it is sufficient. Please forgive me for withholding grace from my brothers and sisters. Today, may I not cause shame or disgrace to anyone. I turn back to You, Oh Lord! I love You. Use me for Your glory and will today. In the name of Jesus Christ I pray, Amen.
Psalm 69:6 May those who hope in you not be disgraced because of me, O Lord, the LORD Almighty; may those who seek you not be put to shame because of me, O God of Israel.
This is a psalm of David, but it sounds like it describes Jesus more so. I suppose David went through certain trials that would give him inspiration to write from the heart of Jesus. David essentially says to God in this verse, please do not allow me to cause another believer to be disgraced or put to shame. Disgraced means to bring shame or dishonor on or to deprive of favor or good repute; treat with disfavor. David is asking God to keep him from doing this, to keep him from judging and blaming others. When you take apart the word, it says, dis then graced. God's grace through Jesus is more than enough for us. We must allow God's grace to flow at all times.
I am so convicted. I have not been allowing God's grace to flow from me. Also, because of the carelessness of my tongue, I have caused, or possibly caused some fellow believers to be disgraced. I feel horrible. I never want to do that again. The cry of my heart today is this Psalm. I don't want to be a source of shame for others, non believer and believer alike. Today, I repent of my sin and I actively will pursue God's grace.
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your grace. Lord, it is sufficient. Please forgive me for withholding grace from my brothers and sisters. Today, may I not cause shame or disgrace to anyone. I turn back to You, Oh Lord! I love You. Use me for Your glory and will today. In the name of Jesus Christ I pray, Amen.
Monday, March 17, 2008
He Will Heal!
031708
Deuteronomy 32:39
"See now that I myself am He! There is no god besides me. I put to death and I bring to life, I have wounded and I will heal, and no one can deliver out of my hand.
Moses is reciting a song that God gave him to teach to the Israelites. In the song, God says that He is the only God and that His power is absolute. What really grabs my attention is that God says he has wounded but he WILL heal. He fully intends healing. Where the enemy intends to kill and destroy, God intends to heal and restore life.
Today, I find my peace in God’s word. Yesterday, I felt very broken. Something was not right. However, God has indeed brought healing, life, and joy. He is so good. I am glad that He is the one and only God. I love that I can trust in Him. I know that when I die to myself, I can be alive in Him! Jesus, God’s son, is the perfect example of this righteous, loving heart. Jesus always offered healing. He always offered life. Today, may I allow God to use me for life and for healing. He is in control!
Heavenly Father, thank You for healing me, Lord! I am so filled with joy today. Please use me today for Your will. I love You, Lord. Forgive me for not trusting in Your healing promise. I pray that You watch over my friends and family. Please show me how to steward my time for Your glory. In the name of Jesus Christ I pray, Amen.
Deuteronomy 32:39
"See now that I myself am He! There is no god besides me. I put to death and I bring to life, I have wounded and I will heal, and no one can deliver out of my hand.
Moses is reciting a song that God gave him to teach to the Israelites. In the song, God says that He is the only God and that His power is absolute. What really grabs my attention is that God says he has wounded but he WILL heal. He fully intends healing. Where the enemy intends to kill and destroy, God intends to heal and restore life.
Today, I find my peace in God’s word. Yesterday, I felt very broken. Something was not right. However, God has indeed brought healing, life, and joy. He is so good. I am glad that He is the one and only God. I love that I can trust in Him. I know that when I die to myself, I can be alive in Him! Jesus, God’s son, is the perfect example of this righteous, loving heart. Jesus always offered healing. He always offered life. Today, may I allow God to use me for life and for healing. He is in control!
Heavenly Father, thank You for healing me, Lord! I am so filled with joy today. Please use me today for Your will. I love You, Lord. Forgive me for not trusting in Your healing promise. I pray that You watch over my friends and family. Please show me how to steward my time for Your glory. In the name of Jesus Christ I pray, Amen.
Sunday, March 16, 2008
Love God With All My Heart
031608: Today I had a difficult time waking up. I feel kind of blue. This is unusual. Maybe it’s because I skipped my devo yesterday. Maybe it’s because of hormonal changes in my body. Maybe the sunburn I got yesterday is irritating me subconsciously. Maybe I’m just being hard on myself.
Deuteronomy 30: 6 The LORD your God will circumcise your hearts and the hearts of your descendants, so that you may love him with all your heart and with all your soul, and live…14 No, the word is very near you; it is in your mouth and in your heart so you may obey it…17 But if your heart turns away and you are not obedient, and if you are drawn away to bow down to other gods and worship them, 18 I declare to you this day that you will certainly be destroyed.
Psalm 40: 8 I desire to do your will, O my God; your law is within my heart."
In Deuteronomy, Moses is telling the Israelites that God will seek them out if they seek out God with all their hearts. God will even gather them back together if they repent after straying to the ends of the Earth. To love God with all your heart and soul is life itself. God is never far from us. His word is “very near” to us. In fact, His word is in our very mouths and hearts. This shows me that God’s word can pour out from our hearts and mouths if we love Him and obey Him. The consequence for disobedience or a heart distant from God is death and destruction. In Psalm 40:8, David says that he desires to do God’s will and that God’s law dwells inside his heart. All the laws of Moses are inside our hearts if we love God and His will.
Today, I see that God is doing open heart surgery on me. Somehow, I went astray. I think I know where. Once I begin to think evil thoughts, I do not love God. He knows my thoughts. For me to blame my spiritual illness on the physical things, then I am evading my responsibility. I confess, I am suffering on the inside because I chose for a few moments not to love God. There are consequences for my choices. What is encouraging to hear, is that God is not far from me. He is very near, waiting for me to turn my heart back to Him. I want to be like the Psalmist, David, who says I desire to do Your will, O my God. Today, I will make that the cry of my heart.
Lord Jesus Christ, thank You for laying down Your life for me. Father, please forgive me. I love You. I am sorry for turning my heart from You. I am sorry for sinning. I desire to do Your will. I do. Please show me what Your will is. Shape me and mold me, Lord. I am coming back to a heart of worship. I give You all the praise, glory and honor. I am nothing without You. I pray all these things in Jesus Christ’s precious name, Amen.
Deuteronomy 30: 6 The LORD your God will circumcise your hearts and the hearts of your descendants, so that you may love him with all your heart and with all your soul, and live…14 No, the word is very near you; it is in your mouth and in your heart so you may obey it…17 But if your heart turns away and you are not obedient, and if you are drawn away to bow down to other gods and worship them, 18 I declare to you this day that you will certainly be destroyed.
Psalm 40: 8 I desire to do your will, O my God; your law is within my heart."
In Deuteronomy, Moses is telling the Israelites that God will seek them out if they seek out God with all their hearts. God will even gather them back together if they repent after straying to the ends of the Earth. To love God with all your heart and soul is life itself. God is never far from us. His word is “very near” to us. In fact, His word is in our very mouths and hearts. This shows me that God’s word can pour out from our hearts and mouths if we love Him and obey Him. The consequence for disobedience or a heart distant from God is death and destruction. In Psalm 40:8, David says that he desires to do God’s will and that God’s law dwells inside his heart. All the laws of Moses are inside our hearts if we love God and His will.
Today, I see that God is doing open heart surgery on me. Somehow, I went astray. I think I know where. Once I begin to think evil thoughts, I do not love God. He knows my thoughts. For me to blame my spiritual illness on the physical things, then I am evading my responsibility. I confess, I am suffering on the inside because I chose for a few moments not to love God. There are consequences for my choices. What is encouraging to hear, is that God is not far from me. He is very near, waiting for me to turn my heart back to Him. I want to be like the Psalmist, David, who says I desire to do Your will, O my God. Today, I will make that the cry of my heart.
Lord Jesus Christ, thank You for laying down Your life for me. Father, please forgive me. I love You. I am sorry for turning my heart from You. I am sorry for sinning. I desire to do Your will. I do. Please show me what Your will is. Shape me and mold me, Lord. I am coming back to a heart of worship. I give You all the praise, glory and honor. I am nothing without You. I pray all these things in Jesus Christ’s precious name, Amen.
Friday, March 14, 2008
With All That I Am
031408: This morning, I am trying to rejoice in the Lord, but I keep getting irritated by who I am. I spilled oatmeal all over the counter. I got irritated while trying to clean it up. I'm running behind my schedule now and I'm not sure if I'll be on time for my orientation. I don't like rushing during my devos. How can so much go junk in less than an hour?
Deuteronomy 26:16This day the Lord your God has commanded you to do these statutes and ordinances. Therefore you shall keep and do them with all your [mind and] heart and with all your being.
Galatians 5:16But I say, walk and live [habitually] in the [Holy] Spirit [responsive to and controlled and guided by the Spirit]; then you will certainly not gratify the cravings and desires of the flesh (of human nature without God).
Moses is commissioning the Israelites as they are about to enter into the Promised Land. Moses tells them that they must keep to the Law with all that they are. In Galatians 5, Paul is telling the Galatians that they must follow the Holy Spirit in order to overcome the desires of the flesh. In the Old Testament, the Law was all that the people had to follow when they needed to follow God's will. When Jesus came to fulfill the Law, it allowed the Holy Spirit to lead people towards God's will. It is because Jesus came to us through the Law that the Holy Spirit was able to dwell among us.
I noticed that Galatians 5:16 says to walk and live habitually in the Holy Spirit. Today, I feel like I'm habitually trying to walk in the Spirit. I know what to do to call upon it. I will pray for forgiveness and for the joy of the Lord. However, I have to admit, my flesh is craving to be disobedient. I want to be ungrateful, I want to be rude, I want to be upset, but...I want to overcome all that and follow the Lord. I need to see what is really going on here. I'm being targeted because God is prepare me for a greater calling than the one I've known. I need to prepare my heart. I need to be clean on the inside and the outside. I need to follow God with all that I am. Jesus is reaching out to me. All I need to do is reach back. This is not the day that I will forget my Lord and Savior. I will worship Him today will all that I am. I will break open that alabaster jar.
Heavenly Father, today has been a bit of a struggle so far. But Lord, I know that You are still in control. I love You so much, Lord. I speak against the devil and any of his attempts to steal my attention from You. Lord, I ask for Your forgiveness. I am sorry for allowing irritation, anger, rudeness, and jealousy to seep into my heart. Please cleanse me right now. Purify me. Lord, I praise and worship You for this beautiful day! I thank You for giving me another chance at life. I praise You, Jesus, for conquering death! Hallelujah! In the name of Jesus Christ I pray, Amen.
Deuteronomy 26:16This day the Lord your God has commanded you to do these statutes and ordinances. Therefore you shall keep and do them with all your [mind and] heart and with all your being.
Galatians 5:16But I say, walk and live [habitually] in the [Holy] Spirit [responsive to and controlled and guided by the Spirit]; then you will certainly not gratify the cravings and desires of the flesh (of human nature without God).
Moses is commissioning the Israelites as they are about to enter into the Promised Land. Moses tells them that they must keep to the Law with all that they are. In Galatians 5, Paul is telling the Galatians that they must follow the Holy Spirit in order to overcome the desires of the flesh. In the Old Testament, the Law was all that the people had to follow when they needed to follow God's will. When Jesus came to fulfill the Law, it allowed the Holy Spirit to lead people towards God's will. It is because Jesus came to us through the Law that the Holy Spirit was able to dwell among us.
I noticed that Galatians 5:16 says to walk and live habitually in the Holy Spirit. Today, I feel like I'm habitually trying to walk in the Spirit. I know what to do to call upon it. I will pray for forgiveness and for the joy of the Lord. However, I have to admit, my flesh is craving to be disobedient. I want to be ungrateful, I want to be rude, I want to be upset, but...I want to overcome all that and follow the Lord. I need to see what is really going on here. I'm being targeted because God is prepare me for a greater calling than the one I've known. I need to prepare my heart. I need to be clean on the inside and the outside. I need to follow God with all that I am. Jesus is reaching out to me. All I need to do is reach back. This is not the day that I will forget my Lord and Savior. I will worship Him today will all that I am. I will break open that alabaster jar.
Heavenly Father, today has been a bit of a struggle so far. But Lord, I know that You are still in control. I love You so much, Lord. I speak against the devil and any of his attempts to steal my attention from You. Lord, I ask for Your forgiveness. I am sorry for allowing irritation, anger, rudeness, and jealousy to seep into my heart. Please cleanse me right now. Purify me. Lord, I praise and worship You for this beautiful day! I thank You for giving me another chance at life. I praise You, Jesus, for conquering death! Hallelujah! In the name of Jesus Christ I pray, Amen.
Thursday, March 13, 2008
His promises are good as done
031208:
Galatians 3:18For if the inheritance [of the promise depends on observing] the Law [as these false teachers would like you to believe], it no longer [depends] on the promise; however, God gave it to Abraham [as a free gift solely] by virtue of His promise.
Paul wrote this to the Galatians. He was reproving them for choosing to follow the law over the doctrine of faith. Reprove means to reprimand or censure someone. The Galatians were saved through faith in Jesus Christ, but now they desired to reach perfection in their righteousness through the Law given through Moses. Paul is essentially saying here that if God's children had to observe all the Laws in order to receive their inheritance, then God's promise would be meaningless. God's promises are virtuous, meaning it is a good and useful quality of high morality. God's promise is good as done. For the Galatians to believe that God's promises required them to perform perfectly within the law was to say that God' promises were void of virtue.
How often do I think that if I am without sin that God will bless me? Do I really cling to His promises? Do I believe that His word is good as done? Well, I think that I tend to be a performance based person. I love to work hard and then be recognized for my efforts. Paul says that the law was only to make evident to mankind their sinful nature. I guess the truth is, no one can really obey the Law because it reflects God's holiness and we can never attain that. I think every person has broken at least one law in their lifetime. I know that I have broken quite a few, yet, it's not by my performance that God fulfills His promises. God is good. He cannot be bad. He cannot be unjust. He is fully virtuous.
What are some promises that God has given me? He promised me everlasting life, a future and a hope, to always be with me, and to help me whenever I ask Him to. I need to believe and trust in His promises. I can't always be so hard on myself by saying, He should have given up on me this time because I failed to do such and such. He is good. I need to have faith in Him at all times.
Lord, I humbly come before You, asking for the restoration of my faith. I pray that I do not trust in the works of my hands, but in Your promises. You are so good, God. I praise You and give You all the glory. I love You, Lord. Please continue to transform me. Keep me from trying to be a law pleaser. I want to only focus on pleasing You, Lord. In the name of Jesus Christ I pray, Amen.
Galatians 3:18For if the inheritance [of the promise depends on observing] the Law [as these false teachers would like you to believe], it no longer [depends] on the promise; however, God gave it to Abraham [as a free gift solely] by virtue of His promise.
Paul wrote this to the Galatians. He was reproving them for choosing to follow the law over the doctrine of faith. Reprove means to reprimand or censure someone. The Galatians were saved through faith in Jesus Christ, but now they desired to reach perfection in their righteousness through the Law given through Moses. Paul is essentially saying here that if God's children had to observe all the Laws in order to receive their inheritance, then God's promise would be meaningless. God's promises are virtuous, meaning it is a good and useful quality of high morality. God's promise is good as done. For the Galatians to believe that God's promises required them to perform perfectly within the law was to say that God' promises were void of virtue.
How often do I think that if I am without sin that God will bless me? Do I really cling to His promises? Do I believe that His word is good as done? Well, I think that I tend to be a performance based person. I love to work hard and then be recognized for my efforts. Paul says that the law was only to make evident to mankind their sinful nature. I guess the truth is, no one can really obey the Law because it reflects God's holiness and we can never attain that. I think every person has broken at least one law in their lifetime. I know that I have broken quite a few, yet, it's not by my performance that God fulfills His promises. God is good. He cannot be bad. He cannot be unjust. He is fully virtuous.
What are some promises that God has given me? He promised me everlasting life, a future and a hope, to always be with me, and to help me whenever I ask Him to. I need to believe and trust in His promises. I can't always be so hard on myself by saying, He should have given up on me this time because I failed to do such and such. He is good. I need to have faith in Him at all times.
Lord, I humbly come before You, asking for the restoration of my faith. I pray that I do not trust in the works of my hands, but in Your promises. You are so good, God. I praise You and give You all the glory. I love You, Lord. Please continue to transform me. Keep me from trying to be a law pleaser. I want to only focus on pleasing You, Lord. In the name of Jesus Christ I pray, Amen.
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
Hear no evil, Speak no evil
031108: The camp retreat was great. God really challenged me to grow during this past weekend.
Psalm 38:14Yes, I have become like a man who hears not, in whose mouth are no arguments or replies.
The Psalmist is talking about the people who are his enemies. He doesn't listen to what they say. Neither does he open his mouth to argue or reply to them. The Psalmist puts all his hope and trust in God. He knows that God is completely aware of and in control over the situation. God will administer righteousness.
I have a bad habit of opening my mouth to justify myself. When someone does wrong to me, I'm always so quick to say something. Here, God has given me an example of this Psalmist. Jesus also exemplified this. He never opened His mouth or listened to all the people persecuting Him. I want to be like Jesus. I want to be able to block out those things that are not from God from entering my ears, and to keep my mouth shut so that I don't try to justify or defend myself.
Heavenly Father, I thank You for revealing this to me. I want to be more like You. I pray that from this day forward, I do keep out those words that are said that are not from You and that I do keep my mouth shut when I am treated unrighteously. Lord, I trust in You. I believe that You will fight for me. I love You, Lord. Please forgive me of any sins I have committed. I know that I missed doing my devotion yesterday. Please give me to passion to do my devotions everyday. In the name of Jesus Christ I pray, Amen.
Psalm 38:14Yes, I have become like a man who hears not, in whose mouth are no arguments or replies.
The Psalmist is talking about the people who are his enemies. He doesn't listen to what they say. Neither does he open his mouth to argue or reply to them. The Psalmist puts all his hope and trust in God. He knows that God is completely aware of and in control over the situation. God will administer righteousness.
I have a bad habit of opening my mouth to justify myself. When someone does wrong to me, I'm always so quick to say something. Here, God has given me an example of this Psalmist. Jesus also exemplified this. He never opened His mouth or listened to all the people persecuting Him. I want to be like Jesus. I want to be able to block out those things that are not from God from entering my ears, and to keep my mouth shut so that I don't try to justify or defend myself.
Heavenly Father, I thank You for revealing this to me. I want to be more like You. I pray that from this day forward, I do keep out those words that are said that are not from You and that I do keep my mouth shut when I am treated unrighteously. Lord, I trust in You. I believe that You will fight for me. I love You, Lord. Please forgive me of any sins I have committed. I know that I missed doing my devotion yesterday. Please give me to passion to do my devotions everyday. In the name of Jesus Christ I pray, Amen.
Thursday, March 6, 2008
Blame
030608: Today Hanzo and I went to Caleb's celebration for his second chance at life. Little Caleb had drowned in a pool and was brought back to life by God's grace when his father, Brandon, prayed over him. It was truly a reminder of how important life and health is. Also, it reminded me of God's love and grace. Miracles do happen. Check out prayforcaleb.com for more information.
Deuteronomy 4:21 Furthermore the Lord was angry with me because of you, and He swore that I should not go over the Jordan and that I should not enter the good land which the Lord your God gives you for an inheritance.
Psalm 36:2For he flatters and deceives himself in his own eyes that his iniquity will not be found out and be hated.
It seems like these passages are teaching about blame. Psalm 36 says that it is a psalm of David the servant of the Lord. A servant does not blame others. Moses would not stop blaming the Israelites for God's judgement upon him, which was that he would not be able to enter into the promised land. Moses was the one who disobeyed God's instructions, but when God told Moses the consequence of his actions, Moses set the blame in his heart on the Israelites because he was angered by them. In the psalm, the wicked are said to flatter and deceive themselves in their own eyes. They do not look at their own faults, instead they point and blame others.
As I prepare my heart and mind for this weekend's retreat at Camp Waianae, I must remember that servants do not blame others. I am a servant of the Lord. Especially, because I will be helping the Pursuit leaders, I must set a Christlike example. Jesus never blamed anyone. I sense that I may be placed in a situation at camp where I can either point and blame someone for what happened, or I could look at myself with my own eyes and ask Jesus for forgiveness. What I also learned in pre-marital class is that no one can make you feel a certain way, you get to choose your reaction. I need to remember that no one except myself can make me upset, sad, or frustrated. I want to be a person that considers all things with joy. I pray that I am pleasing to God in all that I say and do.
Lord, I know I'm not perfect. I know that I'm not even inherently good. But, You are good, Lord, and You dwell in me. Please use me as Your vessel. Forgive me, Lord. I forgive as well, Lord. I lay all accounts of sin against me at Your altar right now. Please take it from me, Lord. Cleanse my heart and prepare me for the retreat. May I have a servant's heart. Keep me from blaming. I love You, Lord. In the name of Jesus Christ I pray, Amen.
Deuteronomy 4:21 Furthermore the Lord was angry with me because of you, and He swore that I should not go over the Jordan and that I should not enter the good land which the Lord your God gives you for an inheritance.
Psalm 36:2For he flatters and deceives himself in his own eyes that his iniquity will not be found out and be hated.
It seems like these passages are teaching about blame. Psalm 36 says that it is a psalm of David the servant of the Lord. A servant does not blame others. Moses would not stop blaming the Israelites for God's judgement upon him, which was that he would not be able to enter into the promised land. Moses was the one who disobeyed God's instructions, but when God told Moses the consequence of his actions, Moses set the blame in his heart on the Israelites because he was angered by them. In the psalm, the wicked are said to flatter and deceive themselves in their own eyes. They do not look at their own faults, instead they point and blame others.
As I prepare my heart and mind for this weekend's retreat at Camp Waianae, I must remember that servants do not blame others. I am a servant of the Lord. Especially, because I will be helping the Pursuit leaders, I must set a Christlike example. Jesus never blamed anyone. I sense that I may be placed in a situation at camp where I can either point and blame someone for what happened, or I could look at myself with my own eyes and ask Jesus for forgiveness. What I also learned in pre-marital class is that no one can make you feel a certain way, you get to choose your reaction. I need to remember that no one except myself can make me upset, sad, or frustrated. I want to be a person that considers all things with joy. I pray that I am pleasing to God in all that I say and do.
Lord, I know I'm not perfect. I know that I'm not even inherently good. But, You are good, Lord, and You dwell in me. Please use me as Your vessel. Forgive me, Lord. I forgive as well, Lord. I lay all accounts of sin against me at Your altar right now. Please take it from me, Lord. Cleanse my heart and prepare me for the retreat. May I have a servant's heart. Keep me from blaming. I love You, Lord. In the name of Jesus Christ I pray, Amen.
Wednesday, March 5, 2008
What I Know and What I Believe
030508:
Mark 12:14And they came up and said to Him, Teacher, we know that You are sincere and what You profess to be, that You cannot lie, and that You have no personal bias for anyone; for You are not influenced by partiality and have no [c]regard for anyone's external condition or position, but in [and on the basis of] truth You teach the way of God. Is it lawful (permissible and right) to give tribute ([d]poll taxes) to Caesar or not?
The Pharisees were trying to trick Jesus into saying something that they could pin as heresy. But what is interesting is that they start off the this trickery with all these sweet words. Apparently they weren't listening to themselves because what they were saying was true. They know in their minds that Jesus is sincere, and that He professes to be the Son of God, and that Jesus cannot lie, He has no personal bias for others, and that He teaches truthfully the way of God. They knew all that about Jesus and yet, they wanted to prove Him wrong.
I guess sometimes we just set ourselves up for failure, especially when we question God. I know that He is sovereign, all powerful, faithful and loving...then why do I question Him? Why do I doubt? Why do I try so hard to ignore His promises? I think that even Christians have a hard time believing in God. It's so strange how we can know one thing and believe another. Today, may what I know line up with what I believe. Also, I must continue to strive to know God more so that I will bring my beliefs up to speed.
God, my Father, my Friend, Lord Jesus Christ, I thank You for being so plain and obvious to me. I thank You for showing me Your glory and splendor all around me. Thank You for taking the time to know me and for allowing me to get to know You. Lord, I love You. Please help me line up my beliefs with what I know about You. I know I can trust You, I know I can depend on You, so please help me to believe it. I pray for my friends and family, that they would also believe what they know about You. I pray for those who don't believe in You, that their eyes would open and they would see all Your glory all around them. I pray all these things in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
Mark 12:14And they came up and said to Him, Teacher, we know that You are sincere and what You profess to be, that You cannot lie, and that You have no personal bias for anyone; for You are not influenced by partiality and have no [c]regard for anyone's external condition or position, but in [and on the basis of] truth You teach the way of God. Is it lawful (permissible and right) to give tribute ([d]poll taxes) to Caesar or not?
The Pharisees were trying to trick Jesus into saying something that they could pin as heresy. But what is interesting is that they start off the this trickery with all these sweet words. Apparently they weren't listening to themselves because what they were saying was true. They know in their minds that Jesus is sincere, and that He professes to be the Son of God, and that Jesus cannot lie, He has no personal bias for others, and that He teaches truthfully the way of God. They knew all that about Jesus and yet, they wanted to prove Him wrong.
I guess sometimes we just set ourselves up for failure, especially when we question God. I know that He is sovereign, all powerful, faithful and loving...then why do I question Him? Why do I doubt? Why do I try so hard to ignore His promises? I think that even Christians have a hard time believing in God. It's so strange how we can know one thing and believe another. Today, may what I know line up with what I believe. Also, I must continue to strive to know God more so that I will bring my beliefs up to speed.
God, my Father, my Friend, Lord Jesus Christ, I thank You for being so plain and obvious to me. I thank You for showing me Your glory and splendor all around me. Thank You for taking the time to know me and for allowing me to get to know You. Lord, I love You. Please help me line up my beliefs with what I know about You. I know I can trust You, I know I can depend on You, so please help me to believe it. I pray for my friends and family, that they would also believe what they know about You. I pray for those who don't believe in You, that their eyes would open and they would see all Your glory all around them. I pray all these things in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
No Short-Cuts
030408:
Mark 11:16And He would not permit anyone to carry any household equipment through the temple enclosure [thus making the temple area a short-cut traffic lane].
Jesus was traveling to Jerusalem with His disciples and on the first day there, he surveyed and observed the temple. Then the second day, he entered Jerusalem again and He cursed a fig tree, drove out all the money changers and merchants and buyers, and he blocked the passage of all who were using the temple enclosure as a short cut traffic lane.
I think that people have a tendency to use Jesus as a short cut to Heaven and He doesn't approve of that. God won't allow it. If I am following Jesus just to take the easy road, I'm terribly mistaken. To follow Jesus is the most difficult road, it is the road to calvary. For me to take my walk lightly is to insult His holiness. Are there shortcuts in my life? Am I trying to do things for God the easy way instead of the way He is asking me to do things? The good news is that Jesus is there to always walk by my side. He will never lead me into death, destruction, or fear, but into life, wholeness, and truth. I don't want to make short-cuts in my life anymore. I want to follow Him through it all.
Heavenly Father, thank You so much for Your word this morning. Lord, thank You for the life You breathe into me. Thank You for the day You have set before me. Lord, guide my every step. May I take no short-cuts. Please prepare me for the journey ahead of me. I trust in You. I am so glad that You are my Lord. I love You with all that I am. I'm sorry for my past sins of taking the short-cut way. Change me. Redeem me! I pray all these things in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
Mark 11:16And He would not permit anyone to carry any household equipment through the temple enclosure [thus making the temple area a short-cut traffic lane].
Jesus was traveling to Jerusalem with His disciples and on the first day there, he surveyed and observed the temple. Then the second day, he entered Jerusalem again and He cursed a fig tree, drove out all the money changers and merchants and buyers, and he blocked the passage of all who were using the temple enclosure as a short cut traffic lane.
I think that people have a tendency to use Jesus as a short cut to Heaven and He doesn't approve of that. God won't allow it. If I am following Jesus just to take the easy road, I'm terribly mistaken. To follow Jesus is the most difficult road, it is the road to calvary. For me to take my walk lightly is to insult His holiness. Are there shortcuts in my life? Am I trying to do things for God the easy way instead of the way He is asking me to do things? The good news is that Jesus is there to always walk by my side. He will never lead me into death, destruction, or fear, but into life, wholeness, and truth. I don't want to make short-cuts in my life anymore. I want to follow Him through it all.
Heavenly Father, thank You so much for Your word this morning. Lord, thank You for the life You breathe into me. Thank You for the day You have set before me. Lord, guide my every step. May I take no short-cuts. Please prepare me for the journey ahead of me. I trust in You. I am so glad that You are my Lord. I love You with all that I am. I'm sorry for my past sins of taking the short-cut way. Change me. Redeem me! I pray all these things in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
Monday, March 3, 2008
When sin finds me
030308: I had the best Girl's Day Eve ever! Last night, Hanzo gave me a rose and strawberry mochi ice cream. Then he washed my feet and prayed over me! My husband is so awesome. Today, we got to sleep in and have a nice breakfast together. One thing that is kind of bothering me is my bills. Last month, I couldn't afford to pay my Sallie Mae nor my Bank of America card. So, this month, I have to pay twice as much. I know that if I just wait on the Lord, He will provide. It is getting difficult though, to balance faith with works.
Numbers 32:23But if you will not do so, behold, you have sinned against the Lord; and be sure your sin will find you out.
The descendants of Gad and Reuben didn't want to enter into the promised land, instead, they wanted to stay on the East side of the Jordan River. Moses told them that if they didn't help the other Israelites gain their inheritance by arming up for battle, that God would not allow them to settle on the East side of the Jordan. Allowing the people of Gad and Reuben to stay and sit in the land of Gilead would be discouraging to the other people. So, they agreed that every man would be armed for battle so that they will help their brethren enter into the promised land. Moses told them that if they went back on their word, and sinned, that the sin would be against God and that it would find them out. There would be no way to hide from their sin.
It is so true how sin finds us out. For me, I know that anytime I hide my thoughts or sin in my heart, God knows and He shows me that He knows. The consequences always come. Right now, I am going through the consequences of my past sin of stewarding my finances poorly. I mis-used that Bank of America card on the movie and on satisfying my present desire to finish Suppress. I thought I could pay it back. I thought I could use all this money I didn't really have for my gain and then give it back when I made more money. Now, I've learned that I should not use credit cards at all. I just can't steward it well. The hope in this situation is, that God has taught me the lesson, and my sin has found me out, so now, I just need to hold on to God and ride it out. I suppose it's like if I took a lion's cub, and now mama lion is fighting me for what I did. She will stop soon. I'll leave that desert and never go back there, but for now, I need to endure the claws, the stinging, and the pain. I know that I won't die, because Jesus has died for me. There is only life for me. However, I need to endure the effects of my sinful decision for this season.
Heavenly Father, thank You for Jesus. Jesus, thank You for dying for me so that I may live. Thank You for Your forgiveness and promise of eternal life. Lord, please give me the strength I need to endure this season. I lean and trust in You completely. Please guide me towards making Godly decisions in the future. Show me Your ways. I love You, Lord. In the name of Jesus Christ I pray, Amen.
Numbers 32:23But if you will not do so, behold, you have sinned against the Lord; and be sure your sin will find you out.
The descendants of Gad and Reuben didn't want to enter into the promised land, instead, they wanted to stay on the East side of the Jordan River. Moses told them that if they didn't help the other Israelites gain their inheritance by arming up for battle, that God would not allow them to settle on the East side of the Jordan. Allowing the people of Gad and Reuben to stay and sit in the land of Gilead would be discouraging to the other people. So, they agreed that every man would be armed for battle so that they will help their brethren enter into the promised land. Moses told them that if they went back on their word, and sinned, that the sin would be against God and that it would find them out. There would be no way to hide from their sin.
It is so true how sin finds us out. For me, I know that anytime I hide my thoughts or sin in my heart, God knows and He shows me that He knows. The consequences always come. Right now, I am going through the consequences of my past sin of stewarding my finances poorly. I mis-used that Bank of America card on the movie and on satisfying my present desire to finish Suppress. I thought I could pay it back. I thought I could use all this money I didn't really have for my gain and then give it back when I made more money. Now, I've learned that I should not use credit cards at all. I just can't steward it well. The hope in this situation is, that God has taught me the lesson, and my sin has found me out, so now, I just need to hold on to God and ride it out. I suppose it's like if I took a lion's cub, and now mama lion is fighting me for what I did. She will stop soon. I'll leave that desert and never go back there, but for now, I need to endure the claws, the stinging, and the pain. I know that I won't die, because Jesus has died for me. There is only life for me. However, I need to endure the effects of my sinful decision for this season.
Heavenly Father, thank You for Jesus. Jesus, thank You for dying for me so that I may live. Thank You for Your forgiveness and promise of eternal life. Lord, please give me the strength I need to endure this season. I lean and trust in You completely. Please guide me towards making Godly decisions in the future. Show me Your ways. I love You, Lord. In the name of Jesus Christ I pray, Amen.
Sunday, March 2, 2008
A Rash Utterance
030208:
Numbers 30:6And if she is married to a husband while her vows are upon her or she has bound herself by a rash utterance...
8But if her husband refuses to allow her [to keep her vow or pledge] on the day that he hears of it, then he shall make void and annul her vow which is upon her and the rash utterance of her lips by which she bound herself, and the Lord will forgive her.
Mark 9: 5And [b]Peter took up the conversation, saying, Master, it is good and suitable and beautiful for us to be here. Let us make three booths (tents)--one for You and one for Moses and one for Elijah.
6For he did not [really] know what to say, for they were in a violent fright ([c]aghast with dread).
In Numbers, God tells Moses that if a woman binds herself by a vow or a rash utterance, that she will be bound by it depending on her husband's agreement with it (based on his actions). What really catches my attention is that women really do utter things rashly. But, even Peter, Jesus' disciple, uttered rashly. He didn't know what to say when he saw Jesus transcended and Elijah and Moses.
I have a very bad habit of uttering things rashly. When I'm tired, I often let my tongue go in any direction. I say things I often regret. Also, when I'm frustrated, I say ridiculous solutions, which I am not serious about, but I say them anyway. I need to tame my tongue. I need to be deliberate with my words. Every breath is a gift from God. If I use that breath for foolish words, then it is a disgrace to God. Today, may everything I say be deliberate and purposeful.
Heavenly Father, I thank You for every breath that You fill my body with. Lord, please help me to tame my tongue. Please give me a purpose when I speak. May I speak with Your wisdom and not rashly. Refine me, Oh Lord! I love You! In the name of Jesus Christ I pray, Amen.
Numbers 30:6And if she is married to a husband while her vows are upon her or she has bound herself by a rash utterance...
8But if her husband refuses to allow her [to keep her vow or pledge] on the day that he hears of it, then he shall make void and annul her vow which is upon her and the rash utterance of her lips by which she bound herself, and the Lord will forgive her.
Mark 9: 5And [b]Peter took up the conversation, saying, Master, it is good and suitable and beautiful for us to be here. Let us make three booths (tents)--one for You and one for Moses and one for Elijah.
6For he did not [really] know what to say, for they were in a violent fright ([c]aghast with dread).
In Numbers, God tells Moses that if a woman binds herself by a vow or a rash utterance, that she will be bound by it depending on her husband's agreement with it (based on his actions). What really catches my attention is that women really do utter things rashly. But, even Peter, Jesus' disciple, uttered rashly. He didn't know what to say when he saw Jesus transcended and Elijah and Moses.
I have a very bad habit of uttering things rashly. When I'm tired, I often let my tongue go in any direction. I say things I often regret. Also, when I'm frustrated, I say ridiculous solutions, which I am not serious about, but I say them anyway. I need to tame my tongue. I need to be deliberate with my words. Every breath is a gift from God. If I use that breath for foolish words, then it is a disgrace to God. Today, may everything I say be deliberate and purposeful.
Heavenly Father, I thank You for every breath that You fill my body with. Lord, please help me to tame my tongue. Please give me a purpose when I speak. May I speak with Your wisdom and not rashly. Refine me, Oh Lord! I love You! In the name of Jesus Christ I pray, Amen.
Saturday, March 1, 2008
He feels for me
030108: Hanzo and I celebrated two months of being married yesterday! The whole day was such a blessing from God. We spent time at the beach, went to see "Be Kind Rewind" and had a home dinner with the family. Thank You, Jesus, thank You.
Mark 8:2I have pity and sympathy for the people and My heart goes out to them, for they have been with Me now three days and have nothing [left] to eat;
Jesus said this to His disciples about the 4,000 people who were there to listen to Jesus' teaching. Jesus knew that they would not last the journey home. Jesus' heart went out to them. These people were so hungry for God's word. Jesus saw that and He provided for them.
What really catches my attention here is that Jesus had pity and sympathy for the people. I know that He loves everyone but to be reminded that when I suffer or when He knows that I'm not strong enough for the journey that He feels for me, is a huge comfort. As I continue to follow Jesus, there will be places and seasons where there is nothing around me to fill me or lift me up. However, I will have Jesus to provide for me and He will not withhold from me because He feels for me. This scripture also teaches me that when I deal with people, I need to feel for them as well. I need to see that they are just hungry, desperate people.
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your Word this morning. Lord Jesus, thank You for feeling for me. I am so grateful that You are a caring, loving God. I pray that You would change my heart into Your heart. Help me to see others with Your eyes. Please provide for others through me, Lord. I pray that I continue to follow You, no matter where You go, in trust and in love. In the name of Jesus Christ I pray, Amen.
Mark 8:2I have pity and sympathy for the people and My heart goes out to them, for they have been with Me now three days and have nothing [left] to eat;
Jesus said this to His disciples about the 4,000 people who were there to listen to Jesus' teaching. Jesus knew that they would not last the journey home. Jesus' heart went out to them. These people were so hungry for God's word. Jesus saw that and He provided for them.
What really catches my attention here is that Jesus had pity and sympathy for the people. I know that He loves everyone but to be reminded that when I suffer or when He knows that I'm not strong enough for the journey that He feels for me, is a huge comfort. As I continue to follow Jesus, there will be places and seasons where there is nothing around me to fill me or lift me up. However, I will have Jesus to provide for me and He will not withhold from me because He feels for me. This scripture also teaches me that when I deal with people, I need to feel for them as well. I need to see that they are just hungry, desperate people.
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your Word this morning. Lord Jesus, thank You for feeling for me. I am so grateful that You are a caring, loving God. I pray that You would change my heart into Your heart. Help me to see others with Your eyes. Please provide for others through me, Lord. I pray that I continue to follow You, no matter where You go, in trust and in love. In the name of Jesus Christ I pray, Amen.
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)
