Blog Archives - Bible Inspired

Cheers...to God!

4/30/2014

"I will exalt You, my God the King; I will praise Your name for ever and ever. Every day I will praise You and extol Your name for ever and ever." -Psalm 145:1-2 (NIV)

"They celebrate Your abundant goodness and joyfully sing of Your righteousness."
-Psalm 145:7 (NIV)

My three year old daughter has taken to organizing "tea parties" that include her setting up the glasses and pouring water into them for each of us to drink. Before we can drink our "tea", she offers a toast someone or something. Each toast begins with "Cheers!" As we sat down to our "tea" last night, she picked up her glass and said, "Cheers to God!"

This simple toast is a reminder that we should always be offering our praise and "cheers" to God! He loves to hear our praises to Him. He is the King and deserves all of our never ending praises. We should express our thankfulness to Him by celebrating His goodness and love for each of us through praise!

Find those moments in your day, such as the next time you sit down to "tea," to say, "Cheers to God!" Thank Him for all that He has done and continues to do in your life.

Prayer:
Dear God-
Cheers to You! Thank You for loving me, forgiving me, and continuing to be part of my life. Help me to recognize Your works and to praise You for them. Thank You, through Your Son I pray, amen.

Good Eggs

4/29/2014

"As a partridge that hatches eggs which it has not laid, so is he who makes a fortune, but unjustly; in the midst of his days it will forsake him, and in the end he will be a fool." -Jeremiah 17:11 (NASB)

There is a bird called the brown-headed cowbird that has its young by laying eggs in the nest of another bird species and letting that bird raise the young. The unsuspecting foster parent incubates and hatches the egg and then feeds and cares for the cowbird young. In the end, the foster parent bird may appear to us as a fool, when the often smaller parent continues to feed the larger, different cowbird fledgling.

Jeremiah uses a similar analogy (17:11) to remind us that we need to be just and loving in all we do. If we get ahead in this world by using others for our own, selfish reasons, then one day our "fortune" or gains will fall apart. We will look like a fool serving a false god or feeding an ego that cannot save us. Beware of the temptations to gain earthly glory through dishonest and unloving deeds.

Rely on God and do what is just as you work through His plan for you. The rewards that God will give you will be greater than any of the rewards that could be gained by dishonest or selfish actions!

Prayer:
Dear God-
Please guide me as I follow Your plan for me. Help me to know what You would have me do and then help me to listen and carry out Your will. Help me to build on You, the Rock, and not on dishonesty and selfish motives. Allow me to reach out to others in love. In Jesus' name I pray, amen.

Clay

4/28/2014

"'Can I not, O house of Israel, deal with you as this potter does?' declares the LORD. 'Behold, like the clay in the potter's hand, so are you in My hand, O house of Israel.'" -Jeremiah 18:6 (NASB)

God gives us experiences to help shape our lives. God's power can affect every part of our lives, from the biggest issues to the smallest details. Sometimes these experiences are painful, testing us and our reliance on God. Other experiences are refreshing and rejuvenating, allowing us to experience joy and grow spiritually, personally, and professionally!

You may have heard the comparison before: God is the potter and we are His clay. God shapes us, molds us, and strengthens us with fire! We are all works in progress. Sometimes we forget that He has a perfect plan for us and we struggle to wrestle control away from Him.

We are reminded in Jeremiah (18:6) that God does have a plan for each of our lives. God knows what we need and He will work, as a potter does, to shape and reshape us into what He wants us to be. Even when we forget His plan, He is able to rework and remold us.

This weekend I experienced one of those rewarding, refreshing, and rejuvenating experiences. God provided supportive people in a learning experience that helped and will continue to help me grow professionally so that I can better serve Him through the education of my students. I am thankful for the people and opportunities that He is using to reshape me personally and professionally!

Have faith in God's plan for you. Look for the opportunities that God has provided to help shape and polish you into just one of His many, beautiful creations!

Prayer:
Dear God-
Thank You for taking the time to care about me, to mold me, and to shape me into what You want me to be. Help me to hear all that You are saying to me and allow me to give control to You. Help me to use the opportunities that You provide for the benefit of others and for Your kingdom. In Jesus' name I pray, amen.

God's Dream Team

4/27/2014

"Since we have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, each of us is to exercise them accordingly: if prophecy, according to the proportion of his faith; if service, in his serving; or he who teaches, in his teaching; or he who exhorts, in his exhortation; he who gives, with liberality; he who leads, with diligence; he who shows mercy, with cheerfulness." -Romans 12:6-8 (NASB)

I have been privileged to attend teacher training referred to as the "Dream Team." In the time spent at the training, I worked with many talented individuals. Each person brings a unique set of skills and experiences that can be shared in order to improve the education of the youth in our care. As we gathered from across the country with the common goal of educating, we formed a community that is much greater than any one individual in the room.

The same feeling should be true when we gather as a church. Within the church there are individuals with many different talents and gifts from God. Each of these unique gifts should be valued and shared in order to improve the health of the relationships in the church and the mission of spreading God's love to each other and the world around outside of the church. We are not called to judge, but rather to unite in a community that embraces the common themes of love and forgiveness through God and His Son.

God has selected you for His Dream Team. When we value and unite the unique talents, gifts, and experiences of the church in His name, we truly form the best "Dream Team" ever assembled. It's time to move forward as a team of His servants using our gifts for His glory!

Prayer:
Dear God-
Thank You for the many talents and gifts with which you have blessed me, the gifts that I realize and the ones that I fail to notice. Help me to best use my gifts in Your service while valuing the unique gifts of others as well. Please allow Your Church to unite to peacefully spread Your message of love and forgiveness as the "Dream Team." In Jesus' name I pray, amen.

Learn!

4/26/2014

"A wise man will hear and increase in learning, and a man of understanding will acquire wise counsel, to understand a proverb and a figure, the words of the wise and their riddles." -Proverbs 1:5-6 (NASB)

"For whatever was written in earlier times was written for our instruction, so that through perseverance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope." -Romans 15:4 (NASB)

As a teacher, I am a supporter of learning. Learning can be related to a certain subject or it can be life lessons that can be applied in different situations. Learning involves hearing, practicing, and applying lessons from teachers, role models, and experiences. The books of Proverbs (1:5-6) and Romans (15:4) remind us of the importance of learning as part of our faith journey.

We should always be open to learning, especially from someone who is wise and from the Scriptures. God is wise and He will provide us with people and experiences, both positive and challenging, that will teach us important lessons. It us up to each of us to ask for His guidance in realizing (seeing and hearing) the lessons and then applying what we learn in our lives. We should also take the time to immerse ourselves in the Scriptures, His Word, in order to learn from the experiences of those of faith that came before us. It is through this study that He can speak to us and guide us.

Learning is an ongoing process. There is always more to see, hear, and do. Even Scriptures we've read before can hold new meaning when read at different times. Set yourself up to learn by reading the Scriptures, reflecting on your experiences, seeking wise counsel, and asking God to guide you in your faith journey.

Prayer:
Dear God-
Thank You for all of the new learning experiences that have been opened to me. Help me to see, hear, and apply the lessons that You are trying to teach me. In Jesus' name I pray, amen.

A Trustworthy Statement

4/25/2014

"It is a trustworthy statement: For if we died with Him, we will also live with Him; If we endure, we will also reign with Him; If we deny Him, He also will deny us; If we are faithless, He remains faithful, for He cannot deny Himself." - II Timothy 2:11-13 (NASB)

If you watch television, listen to the radio, read magazines, or drive by billboards, you have undoubtedly seen advertisements for products or services that appear to be the solution to so many problems! Sometimes things seem too good to be true. We question the trustworthiness of the claims. We may even reach the point of being cynical and distrusting.

In a world of uncertainty, where there is competition for our attention and trust, Paul's words to Timothy can offer hope to each of us. Paul relates what he describes as a trustworthy statement to Timothy (II Timothy 2:11-13): If we die with Jesus, then we will live. If we deny Jesus, then He will deny us, but through it all Jesus is faithful.

The words written by Paul nearly two thousand years are just as trustworthy now as they were then. Jesus is faithful. He always has been and always will be, even when we turn our backs and drift away from Him. One can only have eternal life with Jesus if one's old self dies and is left in the past. Forgiveness and a fresh start are free, we just have to be willing to accept the forgiveness and move forward building our lives on Him.

Maybe it sounds too simple. Maybe it sounds too good to be true. However, these words have stood the test of time and they are trustworthy. Jesus is waiting to stand with each of us forever.

Prayer:
Dear God-
Thank You for being trustworthy and unwavering. I know that I can always turn to you, even if I don't make the best choices. Help me to be sure that I am always striving to move closer to You. Through Jesus I pray, amen.

Refuge

4/24/2014

"The LORD is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble."
-Psalms 9:9 (NIV)

We have those times when we feel rushed, overwhelmed, or just too busy. There are times when we are sad, depressed, or disappointed. Although most us don't search for trouble, it sometimes finds us. The good news is that we don't have to face any of these times alone!

When feeling pressured, troubled, or depressed, we can find refuge in the Lord. He can strengthen us. He can protect us. When He shifts the tide in our favor, He will be there to celebrate with us!

Don't try to face the your life's journey on your own. Find refuge and strength in the Lord. Invite Him to travel with you, in times of trouble and in times of joy!

Prayer:
Dear God-
Throughout my journey, I am thankful that You are always there with me. Please give me strength when I need it. Allow me to find refuge in you when I need to catch my breath. In Jesus' name I pray, amen.

Your Best

4/23/2014

"'A son honors his father, and a servant his master. Then if I am a father, where is My honor? And if I am a master, where is My respect?' says the LORD of hosts to you, O priests who despise my name.
But you say, 'How have we despised Your name?'
'You are presenting defiled food upon My altar. But you say, 'How have we defiled You?' In that you say, 'The table of the LORD is to be despised.'"
-Malachi 1:6-7 (NASB)

Our schedules fill up and life becomes hectic. Family and work activities, which are important, can take over as driving forces in our lives. Even church activities can become detached from the purpose of glorifying God. In all of this, we don't always realize that we are not showing God the full honor and praise He deserves.

Malachi was a prophet that tackled several issues, including corrupt priests, people sinning against family, and people being cheap with God. In the Book of Malachi (1:6-7), we are reminded that God is our Father and Master, deserving of honor and respect. When we don't give our best to God, then we are being stingy, offering our "second best" or left-overs (time, money, talents, etc.), and, in the process, disrespecting God or despising all that God has done for us.

God, our Father and Master, is great and deserves all praise, honor, and glory. In all you do, take time to remember the conversations of Malachi. Don't be cheap toward God, but rather present your best as an offering to God.

Prayer:
Dear God-
Thank You for your never-ending love toward me. Help me to realize all that You have done for me, more than I could ever repay. Help me to praise Your name and offer the best of all I do as a show of respect and love for You. In Jesus' name I pray, amen.

A Tree by the Water

4/22/2014

"Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD and whose trust is the LORD. For he will be like a tree planted by the water, that extends its roots by a stream and will not fear when the heat comes; but its leaves will be green, and it will not be anxious in a year of drought nor cease to yield fruit." -Jeremiah 17:7-8 (NASB)

I enjoy spending time in the garden and my daughter often assists me in planting and caring for the flowers, trees, and fruit and vegetable plants. Through the time spent in the garden, my daughter is developing an appreciation of the outdoors and God's creation. With the wisdom of a three-year old, the one thing she is sure to tell you is that plants need sun and water to grow. As we grow in our faith, we have needs much like our plants. We need the Son and living water!

When we trust in the Lord, we are blessed. Our blessings are not always material goods, but rather a peace of mind, knowing that we are cared for and protected for all of eternity. When we plant ourselves in the living water and trust in God and His Son, we will be the "greenest" and most productive trees and plants in the garden of life. When we plant ourselves in God's will, we need not worry about the droughts and challenges in our lives. He will make us fruitful for His glory!

Be sure you are planted in God's garden. Drink the living water. Soak up the Son. Grow strong in your faith, so that you can be eternally yielding fruit for His glory!

Prayer:
Dear God-
Thank You for giving me the joy of being outdoors and sharing in the experience of gardening with my daughter. Help me to plant myself in Your will, so that I can be continually strong and productive for You. Help my growth be an example to my daughter and those around me. In Jesus' name I pray, amen.

Build Up Others

4/21/2014

"For God did not appoint us to suffer wrath but to receive salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ. He died for us so that, whether we are awake or asleep, we may live together with Him. Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing." -I Thessalonians 5:9-11 (NIV)

God wants what is best for you. He does not want to see you suffer, that's why He has offered you salvation through His Son. It doesn't matter if you're awake or if you're sleeping, God is always there for you with the offer of salvation.

Once you accept His offer, believing in Him and His Son, your words and actions should reflect your new life, your confidence in the guarantee of salvation. You should not be afraid. You shouldn't hide the fact that you have been forgiven. You shouldn't say or do things that tear others apart. With Jesus in your life, you should work to build others up in His love. When this is difficult to do, ask God for His wisdom and guidance.

Rely on God, when you're awake and when you're sleeping, then spread the Good News by encouraging and building up others throughout everyone's faith journeys.

Prayer:
Dear God-
Thank You for my salvation through the sacrifice of Your Son. Help my life to reflect my confidence and new life in You. Guide me in always being encouraging and building up others. Through Your Son I pray, amen.

Open Door to Heaven

4/20/2014

"Now after the Sabbath, as it began to dawn toward the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary came to look at the grave. And behold, a severe earthquake had occurred, for an angel of the Lord descended from heaven and came and rolled away the stone and sat upon it. And his appearance was like lightning, and his clothing as white as snow. The guards shook for fear of him and became like dead men.
The angel said to the women, 'Do not be afraid; for I know that you are looking for Jesus who has been crucified. He is not here, for He has risen, just as He said. Come, see the place where He was lying.'" -Matthew 28:1-6 (NASB)

Jesus was crucified. His body was taken and placed in a tomb, complete with a large boulder blocking the opening and guards to prevent any tampering with the grave site. As Mary Magdalene and Mary approached the tomb, an angel rolled away the stone to reveal an empty tomb!

It's a story that's familiar during the Easter season. The prophecy of Jesus' resurrection was forgotten in the midst of the grief and fear surrounding the crucifixion, but the "open door" to an empty tomb served as a reminder (and proof) that Jesus is the Son of God.

The "open door" to the tomb has significance for each of us. It is through that open door - the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus - that we are forgiven and saved from the consequences of our sin. God's plan of redemption for all of mankind rests in His one and only Son. It is through the open door of Jesus' empty tomb that the door to Heaven is open to us!

Take time to reflect on the sacrifice of Jesus and be thankful for all that God has done and is doing in your life. Walk past the rolled away boulder, through the open door, into the empty tomb, and up to the open gates of Heaven by acknowledging and accepting the gift of God's salvation through His Son.

Prayer:
Dear God-
Thank You for the open door to an empty tomb that allows me to open the door to Heaven and eternal life with You. Help me to never take this gift for granted and to share this gift with others. Through Jesus, Your risen Son, I pray, amen.

Finished?

4/19/2014

"Therefore when Jesus had received the sour wine, He said, 'It is finished!' And He bowed His head and gave up His spirit." -John 19:30 (NASB)

Jesus' last words on the cross were "it is finished" (John 19:30). Those words marked the end of His sacrifice for all of mankind, but not the end of the story!

Fortunately for each of us, the somber tone of the crucifixion is erased three days later with the joy of the resurrection! Without the resurrection, the death of Jesus on the cross would not have been newsworthy in the whole of human history. Jesus died and then rose from the dead so that we can live and find salvation through Him.

Jesus finished His time on Earth as a human. Now it is up to each of us to accept the gift of Jesus' sacrifice - forgiveness and eternal life. Jesus is not dead. His mission of redemption and salvation is not finished. He is alive in, around, and through us.

Take time to reflect on Jesus' sacrifice for you and your new life in Him!

Prayer:
Dear God-
Thank You for sending Your Son to die for my sins and raising Him again from the dead to conquer sin and death. Thank You for giving me new life through Him. Help me to remember His sacrifice today and everyday. Through Jesus I pray, amen.

Fellow Workers

4/18/2014

"For we are God's fellow workers; you are God's field, God's building."
-I Corinthians 3:9 (NASB)

Whether at work or home, you may know the feeling of always having a list of things that need to be fixed. Similarly, when walking through life you may compile a list of all that needs to be fixed in our society. Sometimes we wonder how everything is going to get resolved.

Paul addressed our duty as Christians to serve God in his first letter to the Corinthians. Paul reminded the Corinthians that they are "God's fellow workers." His words ring true for us as well. We are to serve God by spreading His love and His word through service to our fellow man. We are to listen to God and carefully build His kingdom on the foundation of Jesus, the cornerstone of our faith.

The next time you begin making a list of what needs to be fixed in our society, take time to pray and listen to how you can part of the solution as one of God's fellow workers!

Prayer:
Dear God-
Thank You for Your love and salvation. Help me to not only see the problems around me, but to listen and hear Your plans for using me as part of the solution. In Jesus' name I pray, amen.

Listen up!

4/17/2014

"Then a cloud formed, overshadowing them, and a voice came out of the cloud, 'This is My beloved Son, listen to Him!'" -Mark 9:7 (NASB)

Listening can be difficult. Sometimes we listen and hear the words spoken, but don't fully comprehend the meaning of the words. There are times, though, when the words we hear and the meaning of those words are unquestionable!

In the book of Mark (9:7), Jesus is transfigured in front of Peter, James, and John. During this particular excursion with Jesus, Peter, James, and John heard words that had unmistakable meaning. It may be hard for us to envision the experience, but the words spoken to them are applicable to our lives as well. Jesus is God's beloved Son and He has much to teach us, as long as we are willing to listen!

Spend time with the Bible and the words of our Savior, Jesus Christ, then listen up! Read His words. Study His words. Listen to His words. Apply what He teaches to your life.

Prayer:
Dear God-
Thank You for giving me the Bible so that I can read and hear Your word and the words of Your Son. Help me to listen and understand what I read and hear. Help me to apply the teachings to my life so that I can draw near to You and glorify You. Through Your Son, my Savior, Jesus, amen.

Thanks for Others

4/16/2014

"For this reason I too, having heard of the faith in the Lord Jesus which exists among you and your love for all the saints, do not cease giving thanks for you, while making mention of you in my prayers; that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you a spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of Him."
-Ephesians 1:15-17 (NASB)

As we travel through life, we are not alone. We encounter many individuals of different backgrounds, attitudes, and motivations. We often spend too much time focusing on those that tend to annoy us or rub us the wrong way when we should be spending our time focusing on those that are positive influences and role models!

Whether they be friends, family, church members, young, old, or somewhere in between, recognize those in your life that show a faith in and love of God and Jesus. Give thanks to God for these positive influences and role models of the faith. Ask God to continue to bless these individuals with His wisdom and knowledge.

Give thanks to God for blessing us with the fellowship of believers here on Earth! Ask for God's blessings on all those that influence and inspire you on your faith journey!

Prayer:
Dear God-
Thank You for giving me other believers that I can fellowship with and rely on in good times and bad. Help me to be someone that can offer strength and support to others. Help others to see Your glory through their time with me. In Jesus' name I pray, amen.

Be Careful!

4/15/2014

"Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who put darkness for light and light for darkness, who put bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter. Woe to those who are wise in their own eyes and clever in their own sight." -Isaiah 5:20-21 (NIV)

My three year-old daughter often wants to do things by herself. It's a part of growing up and it can be fun to watch her attempts at independence, whether in getting dressed, brushing her teeth, helping to walk the dog, pouring water in a cup, or pouring cereal into a bowl. Whenever my daughter attempts something, I usually remind her to "be careful!" While God wants us to have free will and make choices, we should be careful not to try and do too much on our own.

There are times in our lives when we think we can handle a situation, whether it is an easy task or a challenge that is in front of us. We try to figure things out, to find our way, or solve a problem. We rely on our wisdom to continue on through our journey of life. Isaiah (5:20-21) reminds us to "be careful!"

Things may work well in the short term, but we soon find that we are missing important pieces to the puzzle of our lives. These pieces can only be found in one place: God. God can help us see what is evil and what is good. He can help us see with His light in the darkness. His wisdom can sustain us and give us the guidance to know what to do in any situation.

The next time you find yourself trying to do too much on your own, be careful! Heed the warnings of Isaiah and turn to God for His wisdom and guidance.

Prayer:
Dear God-
Thank You for Your warnings for me. Help me to hear what Your word and guidance for me so that I can bring glory to You. In Jesus' name I pray, amen.

Rock Solid and Ready for Action!

4/14/2014

"As for everyone who comes to Me and hears My words and puts them into practice, I will show you what they are like. The are like a man building a house, who dug down deep and laid the foundation on rock. When a flood came, the torrent struck that house but could not shake it, because it was well built. But the one who hears my words and does not put them into practice is like a man who built a house on the ground without a foundation. The moment the torrent struck that house, it collapsed and its destruction was complete." -Luke 6:47-49 (NIV)

Jesus calls us to be a people of action. We are to hear His words and then practice them. We are not perfect, but that's not an excuse to stop trying to put His words into our actions! When we hear Jesus and then practice what He teaches, we are cementing a rock solid foundation that will prepare us for action!

One of the more widely retold parables from Luke (6:47-49) is the story of the man that builds his house on the rock. The rock provides a strong foundation so the house can withstand storms and floods. Jesus begins the parable with the reminder that to be like this man, we must hear Jesus' words and put them into practice! God and Jesus offer a firm foundation on which to build our faith and our lives. If we are truly building on Jesus as a foundation, then we will not sit idly by, but instead become doers - living out God's lessons for us and asking for His forgiveness, guidance, and strength when we fail.

Don't build a weak house by hearing and not doing. Be wise and prepare for life's triumphs and challenges. Build on the rock solid, firm foundation of Jesus Christ by reading and studying the Bible, reading devotionals, praying, attending church, and talking with other believers. Be sure that the foundation is strong and that you are able to withstand the storms and floods of life by not only listening to Jesus, but also using your faith and talents to be an individual of action for Him!

Prayer:
Dear God-
Thank You for saving me through the sacrifice of Your Son. Help me to heed His words and Your guidance so that I can be a person of action for You. Help Your glory to show in how I live and all I do. Through Your Son I pray, amen.

Keep Celebrating!

4/13/2014

"They took palm branches and went out to meet Him, shouting, 'Hosanna! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord! Blessed is the King of Israel!'"
-John 12:13 (NIV)

My favorite baseball team is the Pittsburgh Pirates. As a Pirates fan, there were quite a few years of very little to get excited about or celebrate. Once the Pirates started winning again, Greg Brown's catchphrase of "raise the jolly roger" has become common as a celebration of a Pirates victory. Instead of raising the "jolly roger", the large crowds awaiting the arrival of Jesus in Jerusalem were waving palm branches and spreading their cloaks and palm branches on the ground. The crowds were more excited about Jesus' arrival than the fans at PNC Park watching the first Pirates playoff victory in over 20 years!

In our lives, we celebrate by raising a flag, waving a pennant, putting up our arms, or shouting and cheering. We find many things to cheer about and celebrate, but do we remember to continually celebrate the the gifts we have been given through Jesus' sacrifice for us?

The events of Holy Week transition from celebrating crowds to an orchestrated crucifixion of Jesus. The crowds dispersed and the celebrations ended. However, without the events leading up to and including the crucifixion, we would not be in a position to be saved from our sinful nature. Without the resurrection of Jesus, we would not have reason to celebrate!

Be thankful for the sacrifice that Jesus made for each of us on the cross. Don't limit the celebration to Palm Sunday, Good Friday, or Easter Sunday, embrace Jesus, our King, and celebrate forgiveness and eternal life through Jesus each and every day. We have a victory to celebrate every day, so raise the palm branch in thanksgiving, love, and eternal life!

Prayer:
Dear God-
Thank You for sending Jesus to die for my sins. Please forgive me of my sins and help me to live a life that is pleasing to You. Help me to celebrate eternal life each and everyday and allow others to see the joy of this eternal life through my celebrations! In the name of my Savior, Your Son Jesus, amen.

Pray Attention!

4/12/2014

"Since all this is true, we ought to pay much closer attention than ever to the truths that we have heard, lest we drift past them and slip away." -Hebrews 2:1 (AMP)

As a teacher, I'm always asking my students to pay attention. I ask them to pay attention to what they read and what they experience in a lab or activity. I also ask them to pay attention to the directions and content that I give them. Some days it seems like a never ending battle to get and keep their attention. I can only imagine how God feels trying to get and keep our focus and attention!

The scripture of Hebrews 2:1 reminds us that we need to pay attention to God and what He has taught us. Similar to how I require my students' attention, God is asking for our attention. How do we acknowledge that God has our attention? In my classroom, one way that I know my students are paying attention is through discussions with them about the topic we are studying. This can also be applied to our relationship with and attention to God.

We talk to or have a discussion with God through prayer, so we could say that we need to "pray attention!" When we pray attention to God it should be a combination of speaking to God and listening to what He has in store for each of us! Take time to pray attention each and every day by talking to God, listening to God, and acting on all of His teachings!

Prayer:
Dear God-
Thank You for being patient with me even when I lose focus and attention. Please help me to "pray attention" to You and Your plan for me. Thank You for allowing me to talk to You and help me to hear and heed Your direction and teaching. In Jesus' name I pray, amen.

Do, Don't Judge

4/11/2014

"Do not speak against one another, brethren. He who speaks against a brother or judges his brother, speaks against the law and judges the law; but if you judge the law, you are not a doer of the law but a judge of it. There is only one Lawgiver and Judge, the One who is able to save and to destroy; but who are you who judge your neighbor?" -James 4:11-12 (NASB)

We have disagreements in our lives. Whether at work, at church, or within families, it is easy to talk about other people. Sometimes our frustrations build and we end up saying things that we can't take back. We must be aware that the damage done by talking is difficult to repair and, even if we feel our frustrations are justified, we must be careful that our words, our tone, and our hearts are not casting judgment on others.

There are warnings throughout the Bible with regard to speaking out against one another or gossiping. The warning in James 4:11-12 reminds us that gossiping and talking against each other goes against God's desire and law. It is not within our knowledge and power to judge others. When we begin speaking out against each other, especially in frustration and anger, we are taking the law into our own hands and trying to wrestle it away from God.

Instead of using our energy to wrestle with God in a battle we cannot win, we should talk to God and follow His plan for each of us. When we begin taking the law into our own hands and judging others, we tend to neglect the important task of being "doers" for God. The next time you are confronted with the urge to gossip or talk badly about someone, stop and ask yourself this question: "Who am I to judge this person?" Then turn the situation over to God and allow Him to guide you as a "doer" in love!

Prayer:
Dear God-
Thank You for giving me the Bible so that I can learn about You and Your will for me. Help me to remember to avoid gossip and talking badly about others and forgive me for the times that I do not control my words and my heart. Please help me to rely on Your guidance when I am faced with frustration or anger toward someone else. In Jesus' name I pray, amen.

Simple Certainty

4/10/2014

"For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus, who gave Himself as a ransom for all people. This has now been witnessed to at the proper time." -I Timothy 2:5-6

Life has its challenges. Sometimes these challenges occur when we feel uncertain or are in the midst of change in our lives. There has been a lot of change surrounding me in the past year. Changes in family. Changes at church. Recognition at work followed by changes in many aspects of my job beyond my control, including a new boss. With the new boss comes a new leadership style and way of operating that impacts the larger system around me. All of these changes remind me that in the middle of challenge and change there is some certainty: God and Jesus.

No matter how much life changes and challenges us, we have God and our mediator Jesus Christ to help us through. When everything else feels that it is never going to be the same, God and Jesus never change. They are a rock on which we can build our lives. Even if we falter and fail, we can return to God and Jesus for forgiveness, salvation, rejuvenation, and redemption.

Feeling overwhelmed by change? Do not worry! God and Jesus have always been and will always be a simple certainty in uncertain times!

Prayer:
Dear God-
Thank You for Your love, grace, mercy, and forgiveness. Thank You for being a source of certainty, even as I feel the pressures of change around me. Help me to rely on You as a source of unending love and strength to successfully navigate uncertainty and change. In Jesus name I pray, amen.

Mustard Seed-sized Faith

4/9/2014

"He replied, 'Because you have so little faith. Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.'" -Matthew 17:20 (NIV)

There are times when worry creeps into our minds. Doubt usually comes with worry. Doubt and worry are signs of what Jesus called "little faith." When we start to worry or doubt, we are forgetting that God can help us handle anything that we are facing. We should remember Jesus' parable about the mustard seed, especially when we feel worry and doubt creeping into our lives.

When thinking about faith, we may have many different images of what faith looks like to us. When Jesus talked about faith in this parable, He used a mustard seed to demonstrate how little faith we exhibit. Mustard seeds are small and unassuming, not large, bold, and strong. Yet Jesus tells us that our faith isn't even as big as a mustard seed!

Jesus realizes our faith is small and He understands our experiences. Jesus tells this parable to encourage and even challenge us to have faith...even just a little bit! However, in order for our faith to be effective and powerful, it must be in the right place. Our faith must be in the one true, all-powerful God and in His one and only Son. We can't be fooled into placing our faith in the things of this world.

When we feel discouraged, worried, or doubting, we need to have faith. Remember the power of a mustard seed-sized faith, then have faith in God and trust Him to help move the mountains in your life!

Prayer:
Dear God-
Thank You for sending Jesus and for the Bible to remind me of the lessons that He taught while on Earth. Help me to not worry or doubt, but to have faith - even mustard seed-sized faith - in Your power, grace, and mercy. Comfort me, strengthen me, and help me have faith to move the mountains that I experience in my life. In Jesus' name I pray, amen.

Just Wait!

4/8/2014

"For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure has come. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith. In the future there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day; and not only to me, but also to all who have loved His appearing." -II Timothy 4:6-8 (NASB)

Sometimes we have bad days when things don't go as planned. Things may seem more difficult than necessary. It might feel that we are fighting to survive. In all things, even when it seems we are running an unending race, we should have faith and should strive to fight the good fight and to finish the course.

With faith in God, He can help us make it through to the end. Once we reach the end, what glory and righteousness He will bestow on each of us! Our award for persevering here on Earth awaits in Heaven. Heaven holds more goodness and glory than we could ever imagine!

From now until God says our fight is finished, let us each live in faith, pouring ourselves out for the glory of God. If we love Jesus, have patience to persevere in our works for Him, and be willing to wait with faith in Him, we will receive our crowns of righteousness! The best is yet to come!

Prayer:
Dear God-
Thank You for sending Jesus to die for my sins so that I can be forgiven. Help me to fight the good fight and to finish the course for Your glory. Strengthen me so that I am able to persevere and not tire. In Jesus' name I pray, amen.

Don't Lose Focus

4/7/2014

"Now, therefore, fear the LORD and serve Him in sincerity and truth; and put away the gods which your fathers served beyond the River and in Egypt, and serve the LORD."
-Joshua 24:14

We sometimes we get distracted. We get wrapped up in work. We get overwhelmed by house work and projects at home. We also make time for family commitments, friends, volunteering, exercise, and relaxing. We can even lose focus in church activities. None of these things are bad, as long as we remember to keep our eyes on the Lord and serve Him in all we do!

The Israelites with Joshua were distracted by the gods that their families had found while in other countries. Joshua gives a directive to the Israelites and it is one that we can follow, too. While we might not be intentionally worshiping false gods, when we are not serving God, we are serving ourselves or something other than God. Just as Joshua told the Israelites, we are to put away the false gods and worship the one true God with truth and sincerity. When we feel ourselves being distracted from our service to God, we need to take a step back, pray, and refocus our attention on God.

As Joshua told the Israelites: In all you do, fear the Lord and serve Him with sincerity and truth. Don't let the things of this world steal your focus from the one true God.

Prayer:
Dear God-
Thank You for always being there for me. Help me to keep my focus on You and to serve You in all that I do. Please let my work here on Earth be for Your glory. In Jesus' name I pray, amen.

Suit Up!

4/6/2014

"Finally, be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes."
-Ephesians 6:10-11 (NIV)

What to wear? Each night my daughter decides on the outfit that she wants to wear the next day. An important decision like that can't be left for the morning! Adults also spend time getting the right look. Shoes, clothes, hair, teeth, and accessories are all considerations when getting ready for the day and especially for a special event. As we prepare each day, we need to remember the most important accessory: the full armor of God!

As we physically prepare for the for the day, we must remember to prepare mentally, emotionally, and spiritually, too. As we put on our belts and shirts we can be reminded to act in truth and with integrity - the belt of truth and breastplate of righteousness (Ephesians 16:14). When putting on our shoes, we should be ready to follow God and travel in peace (Ephesians 16:15). As we put on our hats or hoods, we can remember the helmet of salvation (Ephesians 16:17). As we climb in our vehicle, we can feel shielded from the outside, like holding our shields of faith and protection from the evil one (Ephesians 16:16). In our hearts we should always hold the word of God, our sword of the Spirit (Ephesians 16:17).

As we prepare for the day, we need each part of the armor of God. Most importantly, we must be in tune with what God is asking us to do throughout the day. As we put on the armor of God, we cannot forget to pray and spend time listening to God.

Take the time each night to lay out your armor of God, then as you prepare for your day or special event, don't forget to put it on as an essential part of your wardrobe!

Prayer:
Dear God-
Thank You for each piece of armor that You have given to me. Thank you for Your truth and integrity. Help me to follow you in peace, remembering the salvation that You have provided for me, the faith in the promises that You will protect and shield me, and Your word to guide me. Please help me to be prepared at all times with Your full armor. In Jesus' name I pray, amen.