

Life Is So Daily!

## (A 365 Day Walk With The Word)

## By Pastor Cecil A. Thompson

## (From his Daily-E-Votional Ministry)

### Compiled by Larry E. Hunter

LIFE IS SO DAILY! (A 365 Day Walk with the Word)  
© 2015 by Pastor Cecil Thompson  
All Rights Reserved

© 2015 by ECONO PUBLISHING, LLC  
All Rights Reserved.

No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or by any means, including scanning, photocopying, or otherwise without prior written permission of the copyright holder.  
First Printing, 2015  
Printed in the United States of America

TERMS OF USE  
You are given a non-transferable, "personal use" license to this product.

Also, there are no resale rights or private label rights granted when purchasing this document. In other words, it's for your own personal use only.

PUBLISHED BY  
ECONO PUBLISHING, LLC  
Kuna, Idaho 83634  
E-mail: admin@econopublishing.com  
Website: www.econopublishing.com

# Table of Contents

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS 37

DEDICATION 40

DAY 1 (January 1) 48

ALL SCRIPTURE IS GOD-BREATHED 48

DAY 2 (January 2) 50

FORGIVE THE UNFORGIVEABLE! 50

DAY 3 (January 3) 52

ONLY TWO PERCENT! 52

DAY 4 (January 4) 55

CONTENTMENT! 55

DAY 5 (January 5) 57

DELIGHTING IN THE LORD! 57

DAY 6 (January 6) 58

WHEN A LOVED ONE GOES HOME! 58

DAY 7 (January 7) 61

OUT OF THE FOG! 61

DAY 8 (January 8) 65

"SNATCHED AWAY!" 65

DAY 9 (January 9) 67

PLOWING STRAIGHT! 67

DAY 10 (January 10) 69

 GIVING! GIVE AND IT WILL BE GIVEN TO YOU 69

DAY 11 (January 11) 72

CONTENTMENT! 72

DAY 12 (January 12) 75

GRUMBLE GRUMBLE! 75

DAY 13 (January 13) 76

FRUSTRATION! 76

 DAY 14 (January 14) 77

LIVING WITH PURPOSE! 77

DAY 15 (January 15) 79

PROSPER! 79

DAY 16 (January 16) 81

THE GOOD, THE BAD AND THE UGLY! 81

DAY 17 (January 17) 83

I MADE A MISTAKE! 83

DAY 18 (January 18) 85

REMEMBER! 85

DAY 19 (January 19) 86

WALKING IN VICTORY! 86

DAY 20 (January 20) 87

FEAR NOT! 87

DAY 21 (January 21) 89

SACRIFICE! 89

DAY 22 (January 22) 93

FAITH IS THE REAL MIRACLE! 93

DAY 23 (January 23) 96

THE REQUIREMENT! 96

DAY 24 (January 24) 98

THE STORMS OF LIFE! 98

DAY 25 (January 25) 101

FAITH'S GATE! 101

DAY 26 (January 26) 104

"OUR PRAYER!" 104

DAY 27 (January 27) 107

LEGALLY BINDING! 107

DAY 28 (January 28) 110

HIS PURPOSE! 110

DAY 29 (January 29) 112

REFRESHED! 112

DAY 30 (January 30) 114

WAKE UP! 114

DAY 31 (January 31) 115

GOD'S PERFECT PLANS! 115

DAY 32 (February 1) 121

WHAT HAPPENED? 121

DAY 33 (February 2) 126

"NEVER ALONE!" 126

DAY 34 (February 3) 130

"WHERE IS GOD?" 130

The Sands of Eternity - Pastor Cecil 133

DAY 35 (February 4) 134

"THE EYE OF FAITH!" 134

DAY 36 (February 5) 139

BOOT CAMP FOR BELIEVERS! 139

DAY 37 (February 6) 142

"COMMITMENT OR COVENANT?" 142

DAY 38 (February 7) 144

"OUR NEW HOME!" 144

DAY 39 (February 8) 147

"THROUGH GOD'S EYES!" 147

DAY 40 (February 9) 150

"A PEEK AT HEAVEN!" 150

DAY 41 (February 10) 154

"THE WEAK-END!" 154

DAY 42 (February 11) 156

"I DON'T HAVE TIME!" 156

DAY 43 (February 12) 160

"SMALL THINGS!" 160

DAY 44 (February 13) 163

"NEW POWER!" 163

DAY 45 (February 14) 165

WHAT'S IN IT FOR ME?! 165

DAY 46 (February 15) 168

BE READY! 168

DAY 47 (February 16) 172

SWEET SLEEP! 172

DAY 48 (February 17) 174

ACCEPT AND KNOW! 174

DAY 49 (February 18) 177

SEED SOWING! 177

DAY 50 (February 19) 180

WEED PULLING! 180

DAY 51 (February 20) 183

HARVEST REAPING! 183

DAY 52 (February 21) 186

THE LAW OF THE LORD IS PERFECT 186

DAY 53 (February 22) 190

BELIEVE OR DOUBT! 190

DAY 54 (February 23) 194

"PRAYER BY THE NUMBERS!" 194

DAY 55 (February 24) 198

"JOYCE'S GIFT!" 198

DAY 56 (February 25) 201

LOVING THE UNLOVABLE! 201

DAY 57 (February 26) 203

"THINK ABOUT IT!" 203

DAY 58 (February 27) 207

BE STILL! 207

DAY 59 (February 28) 211

"FOREVER?" 211

DAY 60 (FEBRUARY 29) (LEAP YEAR) 214

STRESSED OR BLESSED 214

DAY 61 (March 1) 218

"NEW!" 218

DAY 62 (March 2) 221

WHICH WAY? 221

DAY 63 (March 3) 224

BE A BLESSING! 224

DAY 64 (March 4) 228

SECURE POSSESSIONS! 228

DAY 65 (March 5) 231

PRAYER POWER! 231

DAY 66 (March 6) 235

PRECIOUS PROMISES! 235

DAY 67 (March 7) 236

PURSUE VIRTUE! 236

DAY 68 (March 8) 239

DISCIPLINE! 239

DAY 69 (March 9) 242

"FAITH'S GATE!" 242

[ DAY 70 (March 10)  
PRAYER VS. PRESUMPTION! 245](tmp_c11699c00ba2dc4fe20b866a29e02b79_pdy_68.ch.fixed.fc.tidied.stylehacked.xfixed_split_061.html#x141.DAY_70__March_10__PRAYER_VS._PRESUMPTION___outline)

DAY 71 (March 11) 248

SHADOWS! 248

DAY 72 (March 12) 249

PRAYER WORRIERS! 249

DAY 73 (March 13) 252

BUT THEN WHAT? 252

DAY 74 (March 14) 254

ARE YOU ANGRY? 254

DAY 75 (March 15) 257

CHOOSE LIFE! 257

I LOVE A MYSTERY! 259

DAY 77 (March 17) 261

DIVINE INSPIRATION! 261

DAY 78 (March 18) 263

WHY AM I HERE? 263

DAY 79 (March 19) 264

JESUS WINS! 264

DAY 80 (March 20) 265

WHY BE AFRAID? 265

DAY 81 (March 21) 268

DO WHAT IS RIGHT! 268

DAY 82 (March 22) 270

DO WHAT IS RIGHT – PART TWO! 270

DAY 83 (March 23) 273

LOVE 'TIL IT HURTS! 273

DAY 84 (March 24) 274

WHERE ARE YOU GOING? 274

DAY 85 (March 25) 276

DON'T BE AFRAID! 276

DAY 86 (March 26) 279

CHOICES! 279

DAY 87 (March 27) 280

LIVING FEARLESS! 280

DAY 88 (March 28) 281

WHO ARE YOU? 281

DAY 89 (March 29) 283

LIVE DAILY! 283

DAY 90 (March 30) 284

FORGET IT! 284

DAY 91 (April 1) 289

DON'T DO IT! 289

DAY 92 (April 2) 292

HOW TO PRAY! 292

DAY 93 (April 3) 293

PRAYER PURPOSE! 293

DAY 94 (April 4) 296

RESTORING WALLS! 296

DAY 95 (April 5) 298

FORGIVE THE UNFORGIVEABLE! 298

DAY 96 (April 6) 301

WAIT ON THE LORD! 301

DAY 97 (April 7) 302

WHAT IF? 302

DAY 98 (April 8) 303

DEATH TO LIFE! 303

DAY 99 (April 9) 306

TIME! 306

DAY 100 (April 10) 309

MY WIFE! 309

DAY 101 (April 11) 310

ARE YOU HAPPY? 310

DAY 102 (April 12) 311

IN AN INSTANT! 311

DAY 103 (April 13) 313

DO WHAT'S RIGHT! 313

DAY 104 (April 14) 314

BE–ATITUDES! 314

DAY 105 (April 15) 315

LAMB'S BOOK OF LIFE 315

DAY 106 (April 16) 317

EXCUSES! 317

DAY 107 (April 17) 320

WATCH YOUR ATTITUDE! 320

DAY 108 (April 18) 323

OUT OF THE PITS! 323

DAY 109 (April 19) 324

SELLING MINISTRY! 324

DAY 110 (April 20) 327

GIVING OUR ALL! 327

DAY 111 (April 21) 329

SACRIFICIAL GIVING! 329

DAY 112 (April 22) 332

SEND ME! 332

DAY 113 (April 23) 334

GOD'S DELIVERY AGENT! 334

DAY 114 (April 24) 336

PROSPER! 336

DAY 115 (April 25) 339

TAKE TIME TO CARE! 339

DAY 116 (April 26) 342

GOD'S GREAT LOVE! 342

DAY 117 (April 27) 345

THE LORD'S NAME! 345

DAY 118 (April 28) 348

HE'S IN CONTROL! 348

DAY 119 (April 29) 349

I MADE A MISTAKE! 349

DAY 120 (April 30) 350

BE GLAD!" 350

DAY 121 (May 1) 355

WALKING IN VICTORY! 355

DAY 122 (May 2) 356

FEAR NOT! 356

DAY 123 (May 3) 357

GOD'S SECRET TO SUCCESS! 357

DAY 124 (May 4) 359

GOD'S POWER! 359

DAY 125 (May 5) 360

THROUGH HIM! 360

DAY 126 (May 6) 363

WE NEED MORE! 363

DAY 127 (May 7) 364

THINK ABOUT IT! 364

DAY 128 (May 8) 367

THIS IS LOVE! 367

DAY 129 (May 9) 369

TRUE VALUE! 369

DAY 130 (May 10) 371

A RENEWED MIND! 371

DAY 131 (May 11) 372

TRUST HIM! 372

MOTHERS' DAY IN UNITED STATES 375

DAY 132 (May 12) 378

PR-I-DE! 378

DAY 133 (May 13) 381

FAST FORWARD! 381

DAY 134 (May 14) 384

JOYFUL PRAYER! 384

DAY 135 (May 15) 386

LIVE IT! 386

DAY 136 (May 16) 387

SLIP AND SLIDE! 387

DAY 137 (May 17) 388

OUR SOURCE OF JOY! 388

DAY 138 (May 18) 390

LOOKING BEYOND! 390

[DAY 139 (May 19)  
BE OF GOOD CHEER! 391](tmp_c11699c00ba2dc4fe20b866a29e02b79_pdy_68.ch.fixed.fc.tidied.stylehacked.xfixed_split_101.html#x278.DAY_139__May_19__BE_OF_GOOD_CHEER__outline)

DAY 140 (May 20) 394

TOO! 394

DAY 141 (May 21) 396

CONSEQUENCES! 396

DAY 142 (May 22) 398

GROW UP! 398

DAY 143 (May 23) 399

OUR HOPE! 399

DAY 144 (May 24) 400

THE HOME RUN OF ETERNAL LIFE! 400

DAY 145 (May 25) 404

DO NOT PROVOKE! 404

MEMORIAL DAY HISTORY 407

DAY 146 (May 26) 412

GLEEFUL GIVING! 412

DAY 147 (May 27) VALUABLES! 415

DAY 148 (May 28) 416

ENCOURAGING! 416

DAY 149 (May 29) 417

DIRECTIONS! 417

DAY 150 (May 30) 419

PURPOSE! 419

DAY 151 (May 31) 420

ENTER WITH VICTORY! 420

DAY 152 (June 1) 424

COMPROMISE! 424

DAY 153 (June 2) 426

TRUST! 426

DAY 154 (June 3) 427

RESTORING WALLS! 427

DAY 155 (June 4) 430

GOD HAS PLANS! 430

DAY 156 (June 5) 432

TEMPORARY PLEASURE! 432

DAY 157 (June 6) 433

OUR POWERFUL GOD! 433

DAY 158 (June 7) 434

UNDER AUTHORITY! 434

DAY 159 (June 8) 436

TENTH COMMANDMENT! 436

DAY 160 (June 9) 438

IF I WERE THE DEVIL! 438

DAY 161 (June 10) 442

BE CONTENT! 442

DAY 162 (June 11) 445

THOUGHTS AND WAYS! 445

DAY 163 (June 12) 448

FORGIVE ME! 448

DAY 164 (June 13) 450

FIRST IMPRESSIONS! 450

DAY 165 (June 14) FLAG DAY 452

NOTHING! 452

THE HISTORY OF FLAG DAY 454

DAY 166 (June 15) 457

DEVASTATING CHANGES! 457

DAY 167 (June 16) 459

GIVE ME HOPE! 459

DAY 168 (June 17) 460

PRAISE IN PAIN! 460

DAY 169 (June 18) 463

THE BENCH! 463

HISTORY OF FATHER'S DAY 464

DAY 170 (June 19) 470

SHOW SOME RESPECT! 470

DAY 171 (June 20) 472

RUST REMOVER! 472

DAY 172 (June 21) (1st Day of Summer) 474

THE LAWS OF MOTION! 474

1ST DAY OF SUMMER 476

DAY 173 (June 22) 477

OUR FAITHFUL GOD! 477

DAY 174 (June 23) 480

STANDING UP ON THE INSIDE! 480

DAY 175 (June 24) 483

INSPIRE ME! 483

DAY 176 (June 25) 485

A GOOD WORD! 485

DAY 177 (June 26) 486

TOTALLY! 486

DAY 178 (June 27) 488

I DARE YOU! 488

DAY 179 (June 28) 490

A TANGLED WEB! 490

DAY 180 (June 29) 491

EXCEEDING JOY! 491

DAY 181 (June 30) 493

THE GREATEST! 493

DAY 182 (July 1) 497

A NEW DAY! 497

DAY 183 (July 2) 499

WAITING! 499

DAY 184 (July 3) 500

THE BIG PICTURE! 500

DAY 185 (July 4) 503

FINDING ESTEEM! 503

THE HISTORY OF THE 4TH OF JULY 505

DAY 186 (July 5) 508

DEVELOPING CHARACTER! 508

DAY 187 (July 6) 510

A SOFT ANSWER! 510

DAY 188 (July 7) 511

SEED TIME AND HARVEST! 511

DAY 189 (July 8) 512

JUST OBEY! 512

DAY 190 (July 9) 514

YOU ARE LOVED! 514

DAY 191 (July 10) 516

LET YOUR LIGHT SHINE! 516

DAY 192 (July 11) 518

BROKEN PROMISES! 518

DAY 193 (July 12) 520

SEPARATION! 520

DAY 194 (July 13) 522

GIVING! 522

DAY 195 (July 14) 524

JOY FOR OTHERS! 524

DAY 196 (July 13) 525

ONE FLESH! 525

DAY 197 (July 16) 527

OUR ENEMY! 527

DAY 198 (July 17) 528

THE KILLDEER! 528

DAY 199 (July 18) 531

VALUABLE! 531

DAY 200 (July 19) 532

WRONG CAB! 532

DAY 201 (July 20) 533

RIGHT CAB! 533

LISTENING TO THE WORD! 533

DAY 202 (July 21) 535

FILL 'ER UP! 535

DAY 203 (July 22) 537

DO NOT DO IT! 537

DAY 204 (July 23) 538

WHAT WILL YOU GIVE? 538

DAY 205 (July 24) 539

GET RID OF GREED! 539

DAY 207 (July 26) 541

THIS INSTANT! 541

DAY 208 (July 27) 543

THE GIFT OF LOVE! 543

DAY 209 (July 28) 545

OUR REFUGE! 545

DAY 210 (July 29) 546

FLESH VERSUS SPIRIT! 546

DAY 211 (July 30) 548

MISUNDERSTOOD! 548

DAY 212 (July 31) 550

ACTIONS-ASSURANCES-PROMISES! 550

DAY 213 (August 1) 554

WHEN DID IT HAPPEN? 554

DAY 214 (August 2) 556

RUDENESS! 556

DAY 215 (August 3) 558

LISTEN AND OBEY! 558

LISTEN AND OBEY! 559

DAY 216 (August 4) 561

A SERVANT SPIRIT! 561

DAY 217 (August 5) 563

THE BEST GIFT! 563

DAY 218 (August 6) 566

BE ON GUARD! 566

DAY 219 (August 7) 568

GODLINESS PLUS! 568

DAY 220 (August 8) 569

OUR CALLING! 569

DAY 221 (August 9) 570

DOING THE LORD'S WILL! 570

DAY 222 (August 10) 572

DANGER IS LURKING! 572

DAY 223 (August 11) 573

COME ON IN! 573

DAY 224 (August 12) 575

PR(I)DE! 575

DAY 225 (August 13) 577

REJOICE! 577

DAY 226 (August 14) 578

CAN GOD USE ME?" 578

DAY 227 (August 15) 579

IDENTIFICATION! 579

DAY 228 (August 16) 581

EYES ON THE GOAL! 581

DAY 229 (August 17) 582

VULNERABLE! 582

DAY 230 (August 18) 583

JOY! 583

DAY 231 (August 19) 585

ENOUGH! 585

DAY 232 (August 20) 586

NEVER DIE! 586

DAY 233 (August 21) 589

THE PERIL OF POPULARITY! 589

DAY 234 (August 22) 591

THE PERIL OF PAIN! 591

DAY 235 (August 23) 593

THE PERIL OF PRESUMPTION! 593

DAY 236 (August 24) 594

FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS! 594

DAY 237 (August 25) 595

KEEP YOUR EYES OPEN! 595

DAY 238 (August 26) 597

THE POWER OF THE TONGUE! 597

DAY 239 (August 27) 599

THE ULTIMATE PRIORITY! 599

DAY 240 (August 28) 601

TIME MARCHES ON! 601

DAY 241 (August 29) 602

COURAGE! 602

DAY 242 (August 30) 604

MAKE THE CALL! 604

DAY 243 (August 31) 606

MY BAD! 606

DAY 244 (September 1) 609

VICTORY! 609

DAY 245 (September 2) 610

READY OR NOT! 610

DAY 246 (September 3) 611

GOD IS IN CONTROL! 611

DAY 247 (September 4) 613

THE CANCER OF SIN! 613

DAY 248 (September 5) 615

THE BEACON! 615

LABOR DAY IN UNITED STATES 617

DAY 249 (September 6) 620

TRUST AND OBEY! 620

DAY 250 (September 7) 621

NET WORTH! 621

DAY 251 (September 8) 622

WHERE DID IT GO? 622

DAY 252 (September 9) 624

GROW IN THE LORD! 624

DAY 253 (September 10) 626

ITCHING EARS! 626

DAY 254 (September 11) 9/11 Day 628

CONFIDENCE! 628

A BREIF HISTORY OF 9/11/2001 631

DAY 255 (September 12) 636

REAR VIEW MIRROR! 636

DAY 256 (September 13) 637

SHADOWS! 637

DAY 257 (September 14) 639

PREPARED! 639

DAY 258 (September 15) 640

ETERNAL VALUE! 640

DAY 259 (September 16) 641

THE CRITICAL TEST! 641

DAY 260 (September 17) 646

ANXIETY! 646

DAY 261 (September 18) 648

FRAIDY CAT! 648

DAY 262 (September 19) 649

WHO TO TRUST! 649

DAY 263 (September 20) 650

I AM SURE! 650

DAY 264 (September 21) 653

HATE THE EVIL! 653

DAY 265 (September 22) 656

ANOTHER 3:16! 656

WHAT IS THE SEPTEMBER EQUINOX? 658

DAY 266 (September 23) 661

GOOD INTENTIONS! 661

DAY 267 (September 24) 662

WHAT IF?! 662

DAY 268 (September 25) 665

DOUBTERS! 665

DAY 269 (September 26) 667

SNATCHED AWAY! 667

DAY 270 (September 27) 670

TRUE LOVE! 670

DAY 271 (September 28) 671

CHANGE YOUR WAYS! 671

DAY 272 (September 29) 673

JESUS PRAYS FOR US! 673

DAY 273 (September 30) 674

THE EAGLE! 674

DAY 274 (October 1) 677

GOD AT WORK! 677

DAY 275 (October 2) 680

PURE CONTENTMENT! 680

DAY 276 (October 3) 681

PEACE IN THE STORM! 681

DAY 277 (October 4) 683

INNOCENT HONESTY! 683

DAY 278 (October 5) 684

THE UNCLEAN THING! 684

DAY 279 (October 6) 685

ANGELIC TRANSPORTATION! 685

DAY 280 (October 7) 687

TROUBLES! 687

DAY 281 (October 8) 690

REJECTION!" 690

DAY 282 (October 9) 691

GET STARTED! 691

DAY 283 (October 10) 692

OPEN MY EYES, LORD! 692

DAY 284 (October 11) 694

PATIENCE! 694

DAY 285 (October 12) 697

SAY NO! 697

DAY 286 (October 13) 698

I WANT TO DRIVE! 698

DAY 287 (October 14) 702

REMEMBER! 702

DAY 288 (October 15) 704

OUR ASSIGNMENT! 704

DAY 289 (October 16) 706

FAITHFUL FATHERS! 706

DAY 290 (October 17) 708

BE CONTENT! 708

DAY 291 (October 18) 709

THOUGHTS AND WAYS! 709

DAY 292 (October 19) 712

LIVE IT! 712

DAY 293 (October 20) 715

CONCRETE WORK! 715

DAY 294 (October 21) 718

TWO MADE ONE! 718

DAY 295 (October 22) 720

PRAYER WORRIERS! 720

DAY 296 (October 23) 721

THE SHADOW OF DEATH! 721

DAY 297 (October 24) 724

PURSUE KNOWLEDGE! 724

DAY 298 (October 25) 725

THE HEAD OVER ALL! 725

DAY 299 (October 26) 727

ONE LITTLE APOSTROPHE! 727

DAY 300 (October 27) 728

WHAT IS SURE? 728

DAY 301 (October 28) 731

CHOOSE JOY! 731

DAY 302 (October 29) 732

FINDING THE LOST! 732

DAY 303 (October 30) 735

STAND FIRM! 735

DAY 304 (October 31) 739

OUR NEW TENT! 739

DAY 305 (November 1) 743

ON EAGLE'S WINGS! 743

DAY 306 (November 2) 744

THE LOVE TEST! 744

DAY 307 (November 3) 747

PURPOSE! 747

PURPOSE! 747

DAY 308 (November 4) 749

WATCH OUT! 749

DAY 309 (November 5) 751

TRUST! 751

DAY 310 (November 6) 752

THE SIN OF GOSSIP! 752

DAY 311 (November 7) 755

EITHER WAY! 755

DAY 312 (November 8) 756

GOD IS IN CONTROL!" 756

DAY 313 (November 9) 758

STORMS! 758

DAY 314 (November 10) 759

ENCOURAGE! 759

DAY 315 (November 11) 761

QUALIFIED! 761

VETERANS DAY 762

DAY 316 (November 12) 767

OUR FUTURE! 767

DAY 317 (November 13) 768

DIVINE WISDOM! 768

DAY 318 (November 14) 769

EQUIPPED! 769

DAY 319 (November 15) 771

PERSEVERANCE! 771

DAY 320 (November 16) 773

IF ONLY! 773

DAY 321 (November 17) 775

BE QUIET! 775

DAY 322 (November 18) 777

HIS STRENGTH! 777

DAY 323 (November 19) 779

EXPECTATIONS! 779

DAY 324 (November 20) 780

TRUE FAITH! 780

DAY 325 (November 21) 783

ULTIMATE GIFT! 783

DAY 326 (November 22) 784

LONG LIFE! 784

DAY 327 (November 23) 785

FAMILY! 785

DAY 328 (November 24) 788

TRUE TREASURE!S 788

DAY 329 (November 25) 789

BLESSINGS! 789

THE HISTORY OF THANKSGIVING 793

DAY 330 (November 26) 801

THANKS & THANKSGIVING 801

DAY 331 (November 27) 803

PATIENCE—(RIGHT NOW)! 803

DAY 332 (November 28) 804

THE TWO WILL BECOME ONE FLESH! 804

DAY 333 (November 29) 805

FAN THE SPARK! 805

DAY 334 (November 30) 807

HE KNOWS! 807

DAY 335 (December 1) 809

COMMIT! 809

DAY 336 (December 2) 812

FORGET WHAT GOD HAS FORGIVEN! 812

DAY 337 (December 3) 815

OH NO! 815

DAY 338 (December 4) 818

KELLY'S CAFE! 818

DAY 339 (December 5) 820

A GENTLE MAN! 820

DAY 340 (December 6) 821

GOD'S PROMISE! 821

DAY 341 (December 7) 823

PRAYER FOR SUFFERING SAINTS!" 823

DAY 342 (December 8) 825

SPIRITUAL BABIES! 825

DAY 343 (December 9) 831

AUTHORITY! 831

DAY 344 (December 10) 832

IN THE MIDDLE! 832

DAY 345 (December 11) 833

UNDERWEAR! 833

DAY 346 (December 12) 836

PERSECUTION! 836

DAY 347 (December 13) 837

JOY IS A CHOICE! 837

DAY 348 (December 14) 842

IF! 842

DAY 349 (December 15) 845

A MESSAGE FROM THE STARS! 845

DAY 350 (December 16) 849

FAITH IS THE REAL MIRACLE! 849

DAY 351 (December 17) 853

LOOKING PAST SPILLED MILK! 853

DAY 352 (December 18) 857

OUR OUTLOOK! 857

DAY 353 (December 19) 860

FACING A BATTLE! 860

DAY 354 (December 20) 864

WAY TO GO, BOBBI! 864

DAY 355 (December 21) 866

CONTENT! 866

DAY 356 (December 22) 871

PUSHING THE BUTTONS! 871

DAY 358 (December 24) 876

WHERE'S THE STAR? 876

DAY 359 (December 25) 878

CHRIST IN CHRISTMAS! 878

DAY 360 (December 26) 883

HAPPY BIRTHDAY? 883

DAY 361 (December 27) 887

REMEMBER AND POSSESS! 887

DAY 362 (December 28) 889

EVERYBODY! 889

DAY 363 (December 29) 892

A COVENANT OF PRAISE! 892

DAY 364 (December 30) 895

RIGHTEOUS ABEL! 895

DAY 365 (December 31) 899

ONLY ONE LIFE! 899

FINAL THOUGHTS 902

ABOUT PASTOR CECIL 905

# **ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS**

I dislike acknowledgements for a personal reason. Many years ago an evangelist held a series of meetings at the church we were attending. (I was not the pastor). He had written a book and asked my wife Joyce to proof and type his manuscript. Joyce agreed and spent about 30 hours laboriously completing the task. After she finished, the evangelist took the manuscript to the wife of a businessman in the church to put in a copy machine and make copies.

At the evangelist's final service that week, he asked the businessman and his wife to stand. He showered them with praise for their contribution to his book, but said nothing about the hours of work Joyce had given. I must confess that I was grieved by his neglect.

Therefore, I want to express my heartfelt thanks and gratitude to each and every person who has helped make this book possible. First and foremost, I want to thank the Lord Jesus Christ who has been my personal Savior since I was a young boy. Without Him I would be nothing and could do nothing. Thank you, Lord!

As the Daily-E-Votional grew from dozens of subscribers to thousands, it was very evident that I could not do it on my own. In stepped Russ Hanson from ReachOne.com Internet Providers. There is no way this ministry could have progressed without his wonderful help.

Over these many years, numerous faithful friends have helped proofread the Daily-E-Votionals. Joyce, my wife and closest friend, was always there with her red pen to help correct any errors in my text. Then Alex Villeneuve from Coral Ridge Ministries in Florida volunteered to proofread the copy. When a job change prevented her continuing, Alex introduced me to her co-worker, Cathy Baker. I cannot say enough about the years that Cathy has devoted in giving her time and talent to prevent my making too many glaring grammatical errors. Not only that, she has given many hours proofreading the formulation of this book.

Larry "Buck" Hunter is the man who has taken on the herculean task of compiling this book from the Daily-E-Votional archives. He has also added visual interest to it with the graphics and interesting information appropriate to some special days.

There are others who have contributed their encouragement and financial support over the years. The kind words of inspiration and love have been more than I deserve, but they have been so much appreciated that mere words can never adequately convey my gratitude.

To all of you who prayerfully read any or all of these words, I want to sincerely express my thanks and appreciation.

# **DEDICATION**

MY TRIBUTE TO THE VITAL PART OF MY LIFE—MY WIFE!

After all of these years, how can I begin to explain the love I shared with Joyce? I began to discover the meaning of love when we were young and full of life. As near as I can recall, it was Sunday, August 22, 1948, in Nampa, Idaho, when I first saw Joyce. Sunday school class was about to start and, as usual, I was sitting next to my lifelong friend Jerry when the door of that classroom opened and Joyce stepped in with her sister. She was wearing a white and yellow dress that set off her pitch black hair. At that moment it seemed like my heart stopped beating. I turned to Jerry and said, "She's the one!" I didn't even know what that meant, but I knew that with one look she had stolen my heart.

A few weeks later there was a potluck dinner for several families who had moved from Camas, Washington, to Nampa. With my heart in my throat, I asked Joyce if she would like to go with me. I was sure that someone with her beauty and class would never have eyes for a clod like me. Amazingly she said yes! I learned later that when we left the house that evening, her mother commented, "Just look at those two babies!"

That was to be the opinion of almost everyone back then. At just fourteen years of age we appeared to be too young to know what love was, but we did! Nat King Cole had a hit song back then, "They Try to Tell Us We're Too Young." It seemed to perfectly express our situation and became our song. It goes like this:

"They try to tell us we're too young, too young to really be in love; they say that love's a word, a word we've only heard but can't begin to know the meaning of. And yet we're not too young to know, this love will last though years may go, and then some day they may recall, we were not too young at all."

Looking back from this vantage point, I am amazed that our parents allowed us to date. That flicker of tender teenage love only grew stronger through our high school years. Other classmates would date for a time and then part for a new romance. But all the while, good ole Cec and Joyce never parted. I still remember the sweet times we spent sharing our dreams with each other. Contrary to many modern couples, we waited to consummate our love until after we were married.

Our wedding night was special in so many ways. It was blistering hot and our pastor was out of town, so a college professor performed the ceremony. A prankster made an attempt to steal the keys to the car taking us on our honeymoon, but the plot failed. Our driver had a duplicate key and away we went. Love prevailed. We were now beginning our wonderful new life as husband and wife.

Within a few months I enlisted in the Air Force and we experienced our first taste of military life. It gave us an opportunity to see places and meet people who became dear friends.

It was during our assignment in Rapid City, South Dakota, that our precious Brenda was born. Oh, how I long to see her and Joyce once again. The next time will be in eternity where there will be no sorrow, pain, or separation. I will see them healthy and happy beyond imagination. Our next two children, Dan and Lori, were both born in Nampa, Idaho. They have been such sources of joy to me. Even in the trials of life they have shown love and respect and have always commented about the love they saw in their parents.

I am not sure when Joyce and I crossed the line from being young people to middle age people, to mature people, to elderly people―but in every age we have passed through, we have loved each other completely. Sensual love is something that novelists have tried to portray, but our love has been far deeper. During the darkest days of trial and testing, we have known the love of Jesus and the love of each other.

We have shed our tears at the passing of our beloved Brenda and then through the transplant surgeries of our dear Lori. What a gift of love from Brenda's daughter and our granddaughter, Jenna, who gave one of her kidneys to her aunt Lori. That is keeping it in the family! Not only have we shared our love for each other, we have felt that love surround us. We thank everyone for their love.

Across the past few years I have watched the beautiful woman I first saw as a fourteen-year-old beauty who captured my heart on a Sunday morning, grow more and more frail. But her beauty and loveliness has never faded from my sight.

They say that your memory is going to gradually recede as you grow older, but with my precious Joyce it was slipping far too rapidly. Many of her comments were just a little out of context. The doctors confirmed that she was suffering from dementia with Lewy bodies. We had never even heard of such an ailment before, but we were now living with it.

For the past few months I knew that we were losing her. Many times I would awaken and just watch her as she slept. Then she was placed on hospice and a hospital bed was set up in the living room. I would sit beside her bed and gaze upon the face of the gorgeous woman who has been beside me these many years.

We both knew the time was running out. In our quiet moments we tried to share just how precious we had been to each other. Not long ago Joyce paid me the highest honor a wife could give a husband when she said, "Honey, you are love personified!" I will always be that for you, **Dear One. I LOVE YOU DEARLY! Wait for me; I still have work to do here on earth**.

Your devoted husband, Cec

PREFACE

TO THE PASTOR CECIL'S E-VOTIONAL DAILY DEVOTIONAL

In the 1970's I was on the ministerial staff of a large church. At one of our weekly staff meetings, the Senior Pastor announced that he wanted to start daily devotionals. Each staff member was to write seven devotionals which would be printed and distributed to the congregation each Sunday.

Unfortunately, the project only lasted a short while because staff members complained that it was impossible to produce material for seven days.

Thirty years later, September 15, 2000, I was pastoring a small congregation and requested the members' email addresses. The number of responses surprised me so I sent them a short devotional message.

Once again the response surprised me―they wanted me to send more! As I prayed about the commitment it would require on my part, the Lord prompted me to use this method to share His Word through my life experiences. The Daily E-Votional was born.

At the outset I sent out a new message seven days a week. Some of my spiritual counselors advised me to reduce it to five days a week or I would not have the energy to sustain it. I listened and limited the E-Votionals to five days a week.

The other change I made was to shorten the messages. Can I let you in on a little secret? It is much easier to write much than to write little. I eventually tried to cut back to a single page and encapsulate the message within four paragraphs.

I also discovered that people like stories, which reminded me that Jesus used stories as the basis for much of His teaching. He painted word pictures that allowed the people to visualize His message.

I have had a very unique work history―all the way from driving a milk delivery truck, to jet aircraft mechanic, to police officer, to juvenile probation officer, to Air Force Personnel Officer, to Missile Launch Officer, to Nuclear Safety Officer, to Criminal Justice Planner―and, through almost all of it, a preacher and teacher of God's Word.

This book provides a full year of selected Daily-E-Votionals to assist you in making each day more meaningful in serving the Lord. My desire for each of us is that we will allow every situation in our life an opportunity to serve the Lord.

May God bless you, Dear Hearts!

Pastor Cecil

#

# DAY 1 (January 1)

#  **ALL SCRIPTURE IS GOD-BREATHED**

2 Timothy 3:16-17

"All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work."

Our local newspaper (I use the term very loosely) carries a minister's message each Friday. Last Friday there was an article written by a practitioner of a group that does not hold the Word of God as our final authority.

I was grieved to read her comments about heaven. That's right, she does believe in heaven, but it is a heaven of her own devising and not what the Word of God says about heaven. Her heaven is comprised of anyone and everyone without regard to requirements for entry. She also had the audacity to say that these questionable characters in heaven pray for us here on earth.

It was extremely clear that there was little or no understanding of what God's Word has to say. Without reading and understanding God's Word, we can and will be blown about like a tumble weed in a windstorm.

Paul's challenge to his son in the faith, Timothy, is bold and broad. He say that "all" Scripture is God breathed (inspired). It is not selective portions, but the entire Bible from Genesis to Revelation that show forth God's plan, purpose and design for each and every one of us.

It is only by spending quality time in His Word that we will be able to tell the false teachers from the true. How about making a vow to the Lord to spend at least ten minutes a day reading and meditating on His Word.

#  DAY 2 (January 2)

#   FORGIVE THE UNFORGIVEABLE!

Matthew 18:21-22

"Then Peter came and said to Him, 'Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me and I forgive him? Up to seven times?' Jesus said to him, 'I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven.' "

I have been trying to think of the most unforgiveable act someone could commit against you. The murder of a loved one? A sexual assault? The theft of one's life savings? Being left paralyzed by a drunk driver? Any of these events would rank high on the list of things that would be hard to forgive.

Have you ever been a victim? No, I do not necessarily mean that a crime has been committed against you (although that may be the case), but that words or actions have caused you pain or discomfort. Are you able to sincerely forgive that person?

How do you go about forgiving a person that seems to be unforgiveable? I immediately think that the first step is to ask God for the wisdom and strength to know how to forgive. Most often we want to wait until the offender asks us to forgive them. That should not be the case. We need to forgive our offenders even if they never express regret and ask to be forgiven.

One of the critical steps in forgiveness is to search our hearts to determine if there was something we did or said that contributed to the offense. If there is, we need to deal with that issue. Let's presume that we determine that we are responsible for 2% of the incident and the other party 98%. It is essential that we have a clear conscience for our 2%, so we need to ask Mr. 98% to please forgive us. Ouch!

#  DAY 3 (January 3)

# ONLY TWO PERCENT!

Matthew 6:12-15

"Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one . . . For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins."

"I asked for John to forgive me and he has not spoken to me since. That's what I get for trying to make things right between us. He knows how much more guilty he is than I am, so he can just forget thinking I will speak to him again!"

Please read the above paragraph once more. You may or may not have had a similar reaction when you asked someone to forgive you. I want to stress the fact that you may be feeling that you are more the victim than the offender. That being the case, you no doubt are reluctant about asking Mr. 98% to forgive you, instead of him asking you for forgiveness.

I was attending a Basic Life Seminar many years ago and heard Bill Gothard speak about this very area. I was impressed by the wisdom of his teaching on asking others to forgive you. He mentioned wrong wording and right wording.

WRONG WORDING

1. "You know, John, we both have been at fault in this matter, but I want to ask your forgiveness for my part." Beep! You can just imagine how John is going to react to that! That is a sure way to cause bitter feelings.

2. "John, if you feel that I have done something wrong, I want you to forgive me." In both instances there is a question that you are sincerely sorry for your actions.

GODLY ACTIONS AND RIGHT WORDING

1. Pray sincerely and ask the Lord to show you how you have been at fault. Ask the Lord to forgive you before you ask the one you offended to forgive you.

2. Word your apology something like this: "John, the Lord has revealed to me that I was wrong in _________. I am truly sorry for what I have done. I have come to ask you to please forgive me.

Remember, you feel that John is 98% wrong in what he has done, but leave that in the hands of the Lord.

ALLOW THE HOLY SPIRIT TO DO THE WORK OF BRINGING JOHN TO THE PLACE OF SEEKING RESTORATION.

# DAY 4 (January 4)

# CONTENTMENT!

Philippians 4:12

"I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want."

When I was pastor of a church in Burns, Oregon, over 30 years ago, I was intrigued by the wild-west influence of the area. One picture that still stands out in my mind, were the brush or branch fences that could be seen in some of the rural areas. It was hard to imagine the tremendous labor required to construct them. I can almost hear the huge sigh of relief when the final piece was woven in and the job was done. No barbed wire available, but do with what you have!

The Lord has given us the rich blessing of serving Him. At times we do not have the most modern equipment, so we make do with what is at hand:

  * If we have a Bible — share it.

  * If we have a testimony (we better have) — share it.

  * If we have a piece of bread — share it.

  * If we have an encouraging word — share it.

True contentment is resting in the knowledge that we have done the job as best we know how. Paul was looking back on the days of his service to the Lord where there had been days of victory and days of defeat; but he had learned a secret that each of us needs to learn—how to be content!

If you are not feeling content, it may be that you are trying to do work the Lord has not called you to do. You may be doing for Him in order to gain His approval. It is important to remember that He is only pleased when we simply listen when He calls and do what He says to do. So easy to say, but seemingly so hard to do!

#  DAY 5 (January 5)

# DELIGHTING IN THE LORD!

Psalm 112:1-3: "Praise the LORD. Blessed is the man who fears the LORD, who finds great delight in His commands. His children will be mighty in the land; the generation of the upright will be blessed. Wealth and riches are in His house, and His righteousness endures forever."

When I was a young boy my father worked for a time as a bus driver. From time to time my mother and I would drive the ten miles to the bus depot in Vancouver, Washington, and pick dad up after his shift was over.

One of these trips changed my life in a remarkable way. As my mom and I were sitting in the parking lot waiting for dad's bus to arrive, we saw a young black boy about my age standing waiting for the city bus. He was holding a large ceramic platter, which he was clutching with great care.

My mom kept prompting me to go and talk with him and ask him about the plate he held so lovingly. This white boy (me) had never met and talked with a black boy before, and I had no idea how he would respond to me. I finally gave in to mom's urging and hesitantly went over and introduced myself. In just a few minutes the color of our skin faded into insignificance—we were just two young boys who were enjoying each other's company.

He told me that he had won the platter at a local amusement park. He could hardly wait to get home so he could give it to his mother. He spoke of his deep love for his mother. I was drawn into his world and felt his eager anticipation to present this trophy of love to his dear mother. Our reverential love for the Lord is so much more than any earthly love that words can never fully express it. We may express our love and awesome respect for the Lord here on earth, but our humanity can never truly express the honor and praise the Lord deserves. What joy it will be to lay our crowns at Jesus' feet! I can hardly wait for that day.

# DAY 6 (January 6)

#  WHEN A LOVED ONE GOES HOME!

Romans 5:8-9

"But God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Since we have now been justified by His blood, how much more shall we be saved from God's wrath through Him!"

It was just a little after 6:00 a.m. this morning when the phone rang. Have you noticed that when the phone rings at an odd hour that it usually is news that you are not anxious to hear? This time it was my nephew, Jay, giving us the news that my brother, Harold, had gone to be with the Lord. We knew that it was coming, but had anticipated at least a few weeks rather than just a few hours.

I had called his hospital room yesterday afternoon to suggest that I fly over to Boise to see him, but Harold said to wait until he had been moved to the care center. I had no idea that when we said "good-bye" on the phone that those would be the last words I would share with my brother this side of heaven.

Many of you have sent words of encouragement since I mentioned Harold's diagnosis in the E-Votional. I so appreciate your love and concern for our family. This is the time to demonstrate that God's Word provides instruction about how we as Christians should react to the loss of those who have gone to be with the Lord.

Harold knew and loved the Lord, so we are confident that he is with the Lord right now.

Back in 1966 I stepped onto a plane that took me to the Northern tip of Newfoundland. I was assigned to a remote radar site and knew that I would be separated from home and family for the next 12 months. I did not relish the separation, but I knew that there would be a great reunion when I came back home after the tour of duty had ended. That is exactly what happened! What a time of rejoicing we had when we all were together once more.

That is exactly what will happen when the Lord returns and all of the saints are reunited for eternity. Think about it ― no more sorrow, no more pain, no more separation, no more confusion ― no more anything that causes us to experience turmoil of any kind. To me that means we are to trust God's Word rather than our feelings. "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding." Consider the Apostle Paul's confident instructions that are found in I Thessalonians 4:13: "Brothers, we do not want you to be ignorant about those who fall asleep, or to grieve like the rest of men, who have no hope."

How do we grasp this concept of hope and joy? Proverbs 3:5 says; _"TRUST IN THE LORD WITH ALL YOUR HEART AND LEAN NOT ON YOUR OWN UNDERSTANDING."_ **LET'S DO THAT!**

# DAY 7 (January 7)

# **OUT OF THE FOG!**

1 Corinthians 13:12: "Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known."

What a wonderful day it will be when all of the questions of life are removed and we see clearly the reality of God's plan and purpose for us. At times we may catch glimpses in this life, but in glory we will have perfect understanding.

Yesterday I mentioned the death of my brother. I was to deliver the message at my brother's funeral and flew from Seattle to Boise. I experienced apprehension as we descended through the thick fog in an attempt to land at the Boise airport. I knew were instruments to keep us from flying into the ground. My real fear was that at any moment we might hear the pilot apply power which would indicate that we were returning to Seattle and I would not be able to deliver the words the Lord had intended for me to speak.

There was a round of applause on the plane as we touched down and taxied up to the gate. As the plane stopped, I quickly stood in order to leave the plane as quickly as possible. The door had not yet opened, when the husband of a couple that had been seated in front of me looked up and asked; "Are you Cecil Thompson?"

Can you imagine what a shock that is to have a complete stranger call you by name? As it turned out, my nephew was there to pick up this couple. They had also flown over for my brother's service. My nephew called them on the cell phone and asked if they might have seen me. I shudder to think how he described me so they would recognize me. (Slanted forehead and beady eyes? Nah!)

One of these days, those of us who have received Jesus as our Lord and Savior will pass through the fog bank we call, life, and enter into the heaven God has prepared for us. We will know each and every person who has ever lived. What joy it will be to see clearly without the sin clouded fog of this world. What a sight we will see!
YOU CAN RECEIVE CHRIST RIGHT NOW BY FAITH THROUGH PRAYER  
(Prayer is talking with God)

God knows your heart and is not as concerned with your words as He is with the attitude of your heart.

### The following is a suggested prayer:  
Lord Jesus, I need You. Thank You for dying on the cross for my sins. I open the door of my life and receive You as my Savior and Lord.

### Thank You for forgiving my sins and giving me eternal life.

### Take control of the throne of my life. Make me the kind of person You want me to be.

### THANK YOU LORD JESUS FOR SAVING ME, AMEN!

# DAY 8 (January 8)

# " **SNATCHED AWAY!"**

I Corinthians 15:51-52:

"Listen, I tell you a mystery: We will not all sleep, but we will all be changed— in a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed."

Recently our granddaughter and her husband were with a tour group in Paris. The guide alerted them to be careful with their possessions as the area they were about to enter was notorious for pickpockets.

Our granddaughter was extremely careful to be alert and protect her belongings. Suddenly a young woman tried to shove some sort of literature at her. She repeatedly said no, but the woman pressed in her face. While my granddaughter was trying to push the aggressive woman away, she felt her cell phone being taken from her jacket pocket. The thieves quickly disappeared into the crowd **. Things can happen so quickly that we often are not able to defend ourselves.**

We experienced a similar loss when we visited Hawaii. Joyce and I decided to go to the beach and chose to lock Joyce's purse in the car trunk for safe keeping. (So we thought!) When we returned to our hotel and opened the trunk, the purse was gone. Thieves had pried open the door, ripped open the back seat and, in probably just a few seconds, the purse was in their possession.

As we read today's Scripture, we are forewarned that the coming of the Lord will happen in a fraction of a second. The rapture of the church is drawing near and we cannot delay in preparing for eternity. Will you be a part of God's people who will be snatched away to meet the Lord in the air?

# DAY 9 (January 9)

# PLOWING STRAIGHT!

1 Corinthians 9:10

"Or does He say it altogether for our sakes? For our sakes, no doubt, this is written, that he who plows should plow in hope, and he who threshes in hope should be partaker of his hope."

It seems as if I have always been fascinated by farming. As a boy we had a very small house on the edge of town and in a small field next to the house we had a milk cow. The labor of caring for this sweet natured animal was rewarded by the rich milk that she produced. I will always remember old Blossom.

One summer when I was a teenager I traveled to the Oklahoma panhandle to work for my uncle. My job was to drive a tractor pulling a plow. It was my first experience pulling a plow and thought it would be a snap.

I had not been plowing very long when my uncle met me at the end of the field with a scowl on his face. He wanted to know why I couldn't plow a straight row. He said my furrow was as crooked as snake. I told him I was trying to plow straight and I was very careful about watching my front wheel to keep it in the furrow.

It was then that I learned that you do not plow a straight line by looking down at the furrow but looking down to a point on the far side of the field and heading directly for it. The field was about a half mile long, so it was hard to pick out a spot in the distance, but as I did the plow lines became straight and true. In like manner we need to keep our eyes on the hope of our eternal home. Quit looking at the furrow and focus on the glory that awaits on the other side!

#  DAY 10 (January 10)

#  GIVING! GIVE AND IT WILL BE GIVEN TO YOU

Luke 6:38: "Give and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you."

I just returned from delivering a much-needed financial gift to a family that has been going through a very stressful time with no means to buy the bare necessities. Their response of love and gratitude has brightened my soul.

I have asked permission to use the following message I received from one of our subscribers who responded to last week's Daily-E-Votional on entertaining angels unawares.

**HERE'S THEIR STORY:** "I am disabled with a severe back condition so my emailing has been curtailed a bit lately. As I read your angels unaware, it jogged my memory to a time when my husband and I were first saved. We had gone to a Wednesday night service and on the way home we treated our two young teens to Carl's Junior for some French fries. We were living on a VERY limited budget so this was a big splurge **. We ordered, got our table, sat down to eat and chat about what we all had learned that evening. An older woman caught my attention (obviously what we called in the 80's a bag lady, now a homeless soul). She was dressed very strangely. Her socks were men's that didn't match, as were her shoes. Her clothes were layered for the cold and very ratty looking. She looked like she was 100 but was probably much younger.**

I OVERHEARD HER TELLING THE MANAGER THAT IF SHE COULD CASH HER CHECK THERE, SHE COULD GET A CUP OF COFFEE AND A SMALL BURGER. SHE WAS COLD AND HUNGRY.

I had a $5 bill in my wallet which was for my husband's gas money for work for the next week, not a dime extra **. I HEARD THE LORD CLEARLY TELL ME TO GIVE HER THE MONEY.**

" _After a brief argument (why I do that I don't know because I never win), I sent my husband over with the $5 to order her a full meal. She did not see what direction he came from, the place was packed with people and so he startled her._

When he had ordered her food, given her the change, she turned and looked me dead in the eye. With a very loud voice she said, 'Your God has seen what you have done and he is well pleased.' I almost fainted! She walked over and told me she came in there on cold nights because they were open 24 hours. The manager had been very nice to let her sit inside.

SHE THEN WALKED AWAY.

When we arrived home I felt bad that I had not offered her a warm place to sleep that night, so I called the manager at Carl's Junior to see if she was still there. He denied that it ever happened.

He said there were no homeless people who came in to stay warm and did remember me and my family but not a conversation about food or a check. It was then that the very Scripture you quoted hit me. In giving all we had (my husband would have to walk to work) we had entertained an angel unaware.

" **THE NEXT THING THAT HAPPENED WAS ANOTHER MIRACLE. GOD REPLACED THE $5 WITH A $20 BILL I FOUND IN MY COAT POCKET.** _I NEVER put money in pockets so I knew I had not done it. God had provided for my husband's travel money and some extra to spare!_

Praise the Lord! I now try to be sensitive to those around me no matter how they look, or who they are. Not because I want to entertain angels but because I want my God to say, 'I see what you have done and I am well pleased."

JUST REMEMBER, DEAR HEARTS, THE ONE YOU EXTEND A HELPING HAND TOWARD MAY NOT BE AN ANGEL, BUT IN THEIR MIND YOU MAY BE AN ANGEL TO THEM!

#  DAY 11 (January 11)

# **CONTENTMENT!**

Philippians 4:12-13

I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through Him who gives strength.

Several years ago I received the following humorous story. I hasten to add that it could just as easily apply to men as well as women:

Recently a "Husband Shopping Center " opened in Oklahoma City, where women could go to choose a husband from among many men. It was laid out in five floors, with the men increasing in positive attributes as you ascended up the floors. The only rule was, once you opened the door to any floor, you must choose a man from that floor, and if you went up a floor, you couldn't go back down except to leave the place never to return. A couple of girlfriends went to the Center to find husbands.

  1. First floor sign: "These men have jobs and love kids." The women read the sign and say, "Well, that's better than not having jobs, or not loving kids, but I wonder what's further up?" So up they go.

  2. Second floor sign: "These men have high paying jobs, love kids, and are extremely good looking." Hmmm, say the girls. But, I wonder what's further up?

  3. Third floor sign: "These men have high paying jobs, are extremely good looking, love kids and help with the housework." Wow! Say the women. Very tempting, BUT, there's further up! And up they go.

  4. Fourth floor sign: "These men have high paying jobs, love kids, are extremely good looking, help with the housework, and have a strong romantic streak." Oh, mercy me. But just think! What must be awaiting us further on! So up to the fifth floor they go.

  5. Fifth floor sign: "This floor is empty and exists only to prove that women are impossible to please. Good-bye."

"If only I had a husband, or a wife, or a new car, or a new house or such and such—then I would be content!"

How many times have we heard that, or even uttered words such as those. By nature we seem to be a people that lack a feeling of contentment. There is always something not quite to our liking.

That lack of contentment, my dear friends, comes as a result of being controlled by our carnal, human nature.

Trust me on this . . . we are in a battle between our human nature and our spiritual nature. Sadly it is often our human nature that wins out over the spiritual resolves we make.

I am so glad that Paul gives us a radiant testimony of his victory over discontent. He freely states that there were times in his life when he was prosperous.

But there were also times when he had nothing. He wants us to understand that it is not the good things of life or distasteful things that matter—it is Christ who makes the difference.

Paul sums up his comments on the plenty and the lack in a unique manner: "It is not the good times or the bad times that give us contentment in this life—it is the power of Christ, not our power that matters . . . I can do everything through Him who gives strength."

Here is another verse which should be a constant reminder for each of us who strive to find lasting contentment.

Proverbs 3:5-6: "Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight."

# DAY 12 (January 12)

# **GRUMBLE GRUMBLE!**

Ephesians 5:19-20

Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

My wife, Joyce, was watching something on TV recently. The question was asked, "What do people do about 70 times a day?" The answer was, they complain. Isn't that amazing? With all of the blessings we have surrounding us, we complain an average of seventy times a day.

Some people feel that they have an obligation to complain because that's the only thing they are good at. If the only thing we are good at is complaining, we need to go back to the Word of God and find real purpose in life.

Our family has experienced a small degree of suffering and have always found the Lord to be near and dear during these. Others who have suffered even greater than we have and turned it over to the Lord have become sweeter and have a greater testimony as a result of the ordeal.

I think the answer may be where we focus our gaze. Are we looking at the situation or are we looking at the Savior? Are we focused on what we do not have rather than what we do have? Do we grumble or are we grateful? May others see Jesus in us as we walk day by day?

# DAY 13 (January 13)

# **FRUSTRATION!**

John 14:27

Peace I leave with you; My peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid

My most recent frustration began early Saturday morning. I had just returned from my exercise and sat down at the computer to check messages. When I moved the mouse the screen went blank. I had lost the power supply unit!

**Fortunately I had my old computer in the closet and drug it out and immediately discovered that much had changed—I spent hours trying to get it up and running- - -to a degree. I thought my problems were solved until I realized that the defective computer held all my addresses so I had to wait until the new power supply unit was installed. Fortunately I have a friend who did it overnight and he delivered it early this morning. (Are you keeping up with this story of frustration?) Then the repaired computer would not function and I spent more hours trying to call my friend for help. I decided to look at the back of the computer and saw a switch. I flipped it and guess what... Power**!

I must confess that this frustration occupied a large part of my mind. (I do not have much to spare!) It was Sunday and God gave us a wonderful worship service. I was able to counsel a few people who had far more frustration in their life than I did.

**THE BOTTOM LINE IS THIS:** **According to today's Scripture, God promises His wonderful peace. In the stormy times of life we are promised a peace that passes understanding. We do not need to intellectualize it, but to experience it. Thank you Lord!**

#  **DAY 14 (January 14)**

# **LIVING WITH PURPOSE!**

2 Corinthians 5:8-9: We are confident, I say, and would prefer to be away from the body and at home with the Lord. So we make it our goal to please Him, whether we are at home in the body or away from it.

Over the years I have officiated at numerous funeral services. The age of the deceased has ranged from over 100 years of age to a premature infant. There have been politicians, ministers, policemen, firemen, military members, students and teachers. The one common element is that they have left this world and are now in eternity.

There is a poem by C.T. Studd that has eight or nine verses. The end of each verse is the same but has such truth that many believe it is a quote from the Bible **: "ONLY ONE LIFE, 'TWILL SOON BE PAST, ONLY WHAT'S DONE FOR CHRIST WILL LAST."** If that is true, and it is, the purpose of our life should be to follow close to our Lord.

Just about a year ago I was having digestive problems. Medical tests all indicated that there was no problem with my heart. But a treadmill test showed that there was something amiss. The long and short of it was that I had a three way heart by-pass.

The cardiologist said that it was lucky that I did not have a heart attack and die. I do not believe it was luck, but it was the Lord showing me that there is still work to do.

**Paul was eager to be with the lord, but that did not matter. His prime objective was to please the Jesus he met on the road to Damascus.** Those of us who have received Jesus as Lord and Savior have a wonderful eternity waiting for us. But there are many who face a sinner's hell if they are not given the opportunity to make their decision. I pledge to do everything I can to please the Lord I met as a young boy some 70 years ago. I want to live life with a purpose!

# DAY 15 (January 15)

# **PROSPER!**

Genesis 39:1-2: Now Joseph had been taken down to Egypt. Potiphar, an Egyptian who was one of Pharaoh's officials, the captain of the guard, bought him from the Ishmaelite's who had taken him there. The LORD was with Joseph so that he prospered, and he lived in the house of his Egyptian master.

What does it mean to prosper? Over the ages people have been obsessed with obtaining prosperity. The problem is that prosperity is an ill-defined objective. It seems to be that "just a little bit more" will make them feel prosperous. Then they see someone with more than they have. Suddenly their prosperity disappears and they now must strive to get more and thus make them feel prosperous. No matter how often this is repeated they are not satisfied.

I once had unrestricted access into the Idaho State Penitentiary in Boise. I started a weekly Bible Study with some of the inmates. The group included men who had been sentenced for all sorts of offenses, including murder. **The thing that set these men apart from other prisoners is that they had found Jesus Christ as their personal Savior and were now prospering within the walls of this prison.** More than once I heard some of them rejoice that they felt more free inside the walls with Christ than outside without knowing Him as the Lord of their life.

**In today's Scripture, Joseph had been betrayed by his own brothers. They sold him into slavery and thought that he was out of their lives for good. In Egypt, Joseph was sold to the Captain of the Guard . . . a man named Potiphar. It would have been easy for Joseph to have a pity party. Instead, he prospered in Potiphar's house as a slave.** Joseph prospered in every situation because he kept his eyes on the Lord. It was not what he had that made him prosperous, but who had him. The Lord made him prosper. How about you? Are you prospering because you belong to the Lord?

#  DAY 16 (January 16)

#  **THE GOOD, THE BAD AND THE UGLY!**

Ecclesiastes 7:14

When times are good, be happy; but when times are bad, consider this: God has made the one as well as the other. Therefore, no one can discover anything about their future.

I think there was a movie with the title of today's E-Votional. I did not see it and so I have no way to tie the two together except by title. The one thing I do know is that there are good times, bad times and downright ugly times that we encounter in this life.

I have mentioned from time to time about some Christians who look and act like they had been baptized in vinegar. They speak of joy in their heart, but it never quite reaches their face. Sad to say this is the impression many unbelievers have of the Christian life.

I once heard a Seminary professor react to these sour believers. He said it was almost like the Lord was looking over the parapets of heaven observing a Christian with a smile of joy.

The Lord asks; "Are you having fun?" The Christian responds that he was. The booming voice of the Lord resounded; "STOP IT!" That is not what the Christian life is all about.

God's people should be the happiest and most radiant people in the world. With heaven to gain and hell to lose, we pass over the bad times and the ugly situations of this life by visualizing the joys that await us in our heavenly home. Across the ages, even in some areas of our modern world, God's people have placed their lives on the line and been tortured and killed **. In the face of death they have radiated the joy of the Lord. THAT'S THE KIND OF JOY I DESIRE IN MY LIFE!**

# DAY 17 (January 17)

# **I MADE A MISTAKE!**

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.

In one of my E-Votionals I made a glaring error. I was thinking Joseph, but typed David. It was not my lack of understanding, but perhaps just my fumbled fingers working while my thoughts were racing ahead. I am so thankful for dear friends who picked up my mistake and alerted me. Being thankful is not, or at least it should not be a rare commodity. As members of God's family we are to be thankful at all times, even when we have made mistakes. It is not our prerogative to choose what we will be thankful for.

In today's Scripture, Paul admonishes the church at Thessalonica (as well as all of us) that we are to: **BE JOYFUL ALWAYS.** It is easy to become defensive and resentful when it is clear that we have been wrong. It is important that we grab hold of Paul's admonition and be joyful that there are friends who care enough about us to correct our errors.

PAUL'S SECOND ADMONITION IS THAT WE ARE TO:

PRAY CONTINUALLY. Here is another embarrassing question: How is your prayer life? Are you continually speaking to the Lord in prayer? It is a discipline that we need to pursue.

The last admonition is in line with today's topic. Here is what the Lord expects of us: GIVE THANKS IN ALL CIRCUMSTANCES. Our life should be different from the world. We grow in grace as we recognize that we need each other. It is like steel sharpening steel. Thanks to all of you who are faithful to keep me true to the Word of God.

#  DAY 18 (January 18)

# **REMEMBER!**

Isaiah 46:9-10 "Remember the former things, those of long ago; I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like Me. I make known the end from the beginning, from ancient times, what is still to come. I say, 'My purpose will stand, and I will do all that I please.

In 1967 I was a Captain in the US Air Force and had just been transferred to a radar site in northern Newfoundland, Canada. As soon as I was settled into the new assignment I applied for an assignment to Germany. I was too late. Orders had already been issued for me to report to Whiteman AFB, Missouri, where I would become a Missile Launch Officer. I felt powerless to do anything about the new assignment. It did not matter what I wanted . . . I was going.

It was at my brother's funeral in 2010 that I was talking to a friend who had been a high ranking officer back in 1967. He asked me why I had not called him as soon as I was notified of the new assignment. He said he could have easily changed the orders. **I HAD NOT REMEMBERED HIM!**

It is a sad commentary about the lives that many Christians live. By that I mean that it is far too easy for us to operate in our own strength rather than asking the Lord for assistance. God never calls us to be supermen or superwomen. He much rather desires that we rely on Him for everything.

Think about the greatest trial you are facing at this moment. It may appear to be so large and imposing that you are sure that even God cannot deal with it. That, my dear friend, is ridiculous. The God who created the earth and everything in it is certainly able to do what seems impossible for us **. It may not be in our timing (it seldom is), or in the manner that we think is best, but it is in His mighty hands and when we rest in Him, we can be sure that He will do it. Just remember Him!**

# DAY 19 (January 19)

# **WALKING IN VICTORY!**

Matthew 28:17-20

When they saw Him, they worshiped Him; but some doubted. Then Jesus came to them and said, 'All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.

When I was in high school I played on the football team. In my senior year we were very successful. In fact we were undefeated. I can recall coming home after practice so tired and sore that I could hardly move. All of the hours of exercise and practice resulted in each victory we achieved **. It was rather humorous that we could hear the shouts of victory from the sidelines, – – – We won!** Our supporters had not endured the pain we experienced, but they shared the victory. We gladly welcomed their joyful shouts of victory.

Jesus won the victory over the hold that Satan had over fallen man on the cross. The moment His life's blood flowed from His precious innocent body the price was paid for our redemption! It is nothing that we have done or ever could do that won the victory of the enemy, but Jesus gained the victory.

Following His crucifixion He rose from the tomb and appeared to hundreds of people. Some of His followers identified with His victory, but there were some who doubted. Amazing! He had foretold what He was going to do and He did it! **They still question the reality of His resurrection.** I don't want to be a part of that doubting crowd. I want to be one of those who choose victory in Jesus!

# DAY 20 (January 20)

# **FEAR NOT!**

Isaiah 41:10

Fear not [there is nothing to fear], for I am with you; do not look around you in terror and be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen and harden you to difficulties, yes, I will help you; yes, I will hold you up and retain you with My [victorious] right hand of rightness and justice. (The Amplified Bible)

There is a lot of fear going around these days. Fear of the failing economy, fear of medical difficulties, fear of what people will think, fear of failing, fear of tomorrow, fear of the unknown—you name it—and we can and do develop a fearful attitude.

I especially like the way The Amplified Bible uses numerous nuances of the original Hebrew text in order to clarify the meaning. **WE SHOULD READ THAT FIRST PHRASE OVER AND OVER AGAIN: FEAR NOT [THERE IS NOTHING TO FEAR], FOR I AM WITH YOU.**

We may want to argue with others that our situation is different and that we really have something to fear, but God says we don't. The reason that we need not fear is that He is with us.

If we go back into the Old Testament and read of the way God delivers His people, we find that He is able to protect and lead. It was only when people rejected His leadership and control of their lives that they faced defeat.

Just think of the way God led His people out of Egypt. He provided a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night. God's presence in the clouds both gave the direction to travel and also stood between His people and the enemy.

TRUST HIM TO LEAD AND PROTECT YOU AND YOU WILL NEVER NEED TO FEAR!

# DAY 21 (January 21)

# SACRIFICE!

Romans 12:1-2

Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God–which is your spiritual worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is–His good, pleasing and perfect will.

As I understand it, there was once a chicken and a pig who loved farmer Brown. Their talking led to a plan to honor this man who showed them such excellent attention. In any kind of weather he would always appear to feed and care for them.

By mutual agreement, they decided to prepare a fine breakfast for him. The hen said proudly, "I will provide the eggs for the breakfast, and you can provide the ham!" The pig thought for a minute and then replied, "That does not seem fair.

YOUR EGGS ARE NOTHING BUT AN OFFERING, BUT MY HAM WOULD REQUIRE A SUPREME SACRIFICE!"

When we read or hear of religious zealots who throw their lives away in suicide missions, we ask the question: "Why are they doing this?" The answer is simply that they have the mistaken notion that they will gain heaven by dying for their cause. I shudder to think of their first moment in eternity when they realize they have been deceived only to spend an eternity in hell.

But what about us believers in the Lord Jesus who have been called to give ourselves fully to the work of the Lord? It is interesting that Paul calls us "living sacrifices!" In Romans 6:11, Paul says we are to "...count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus."

As we go about our day-to-day activities, how many times do we think in terms of eternity? If we are honest, we would have to confess that our primary goals and objectives have to do with the things of this world...things which will pass away when we bid this world goodbye. Let me try to apply in steps what Paul has written here, which will show that we are paying the cost of discipleship:

  1. Step 1. Consciously offer ourselves to God. "Offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God." Get all alone where there will be no distractions. Begin by talking openly with the Lord. Tell Him of your love for Him and your desire to be at His disposal. You may even want to hold your hands, palms up, in front of you as you tell the Lord that you are presenting yourself to Him, to be used by Him in any way He chooses. Ask Him to let you know anytime you are taking yourself back out of His hands.

  2. Step 2. Recognize that this giving of ourselves to God is the highest form of worship. "...which is your spiritual worship." It is much deeper than singing a hymn, giving an offering, or listening to a powerful sermon. It is one-on-one time alone with God, in total surrender.

  3. Step 3. Stop conforming to the world. "Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world." Boy! That is harder than it sounds. We have become so accommodating of the world's value system that we seldom realize what we are doing. Ask God to show you the times you are living according to the world's values, not His. As soon as you see what you are doing, stop doing it!!!!

  4. Step 4. "Be transformed by the renewing of your mind." I remember when my son was young that "Transformers" were the popular toys. As I understand it, there is a new Transformer movie as well. A Transformer is a small toy, like a car, that you can manipulate in such a way that it becomes a fierce-looking robot. But that mechanical transformation is not the transformation Paul is speaking about. He is speaking of the spiritual renewing of our minds to know what the good, acceptable, and perfect will of God is for us.

We can only pay the price of true discipleship by spending quality time in the Word of God and making a habit of being in prayer continually. If this sounds strange, it only means that we need to sacrifice ourselves to God. The mind is a fantastic thing. We can be talking with someone and praying at the same time. We can be reading and talking with God at the same time. We can be doing many necessary tasks and all the while be speaking with the God we have yielded ourselves to.

**Sound interesting? Do you want spiritual power that will change your world? Are you interested in being used by God in all you do and say?**

### FOLLOW THE STEPS THAT PAUL GIVES US!

#  DAY 22 (January 22)

#   FAITH IS THE REAL MIRACLE!

Psalm 139:1-4: O Lord, You have searched me and You know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; You perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and my lying down; You are familiar with all my ways. Before a word is on my tongue You know it completely, O Lord.

Life is a constantly changing scene with countless variables. Over the years I have been aware that God works in many unexpected ways. I once was called by a local funeral director to conduct a service, and I thanked the Lord for this cherished ministry. It would once again allow me to minister to a family I had never met and bring the message of hope to the grieving.

I recall Bill Gothard sharing at an Institute in Basic Life Principles that one way you can discern your spiritual gift is that you have the ability to perform the task without growing weary. I was thinking about that as I drove to meet the family. I felt the strength of the Lord flow through me.

The other aspect that I have been thinking about is the confirmation by the Holy Spirit. What do I mean by that? It is the unexpected circumstances which almost explode with irony.

It was a delight to the bereaved family to learn that my family had originated in the region of the Texas/Oklahoma panhandle. Before long, the five of us were laughing and recalling many things about that area. It also made the funeral service much more personal. I felt as if I could picture this man I had never met, but for whom I would be conducting a funeral service.

As we talked about the illness which had caused their loved one's death, I shared about the passing of our own dear daughter in 1991. I shared how Brenda had been healed many times, but that healing is always temporary. I then made a statement that shocked me. (Now that is something — for me to be shocked!) **I SAID THAT HEALING IS NOT THE REAL MIRACLE...FAITH IS THE REAL MIRACLE.** **The man's daughter exclaimed, "That is the most fantastic thing!" I was shocked by her reaction. She went on to explain that she had heard the same phrase used in the past few days and was moved by it. Now I had spoken the same words without planning what I was going to say**.

I sincerely believe that there are no coincidences where the believer in Christ is concerned. The Lord knows our life intimately. He knows how we can be used to touch others. How do we do that? It is not us but the Holy Spirit working through us to say the right thing at the right time.

I have experienced many of these divinely directed encounters in my life. As I think back, they all occur when I have been the most actively involved in deep study of God's Word. I love to study God's Word, but I also like to investigate the circumstances surrounding the passage I am studying. Having done that, I try to apply it to my own life or to the lives of others.

The other thing that strikes me is that we must avoid contrivance. It is not necessary or advisable to plot and plan and then make it appear to be inspired. We have been exposed to too much phony spirituality. People need to see the dynamic and authentic Word lived out in the lives of His people.

Here is my suggestion for us all: Covenant with God (covenants are to the death) to spend quality time in study, meditation, and prayer. Be natural, talk freely, and give yourself without reservation to the one you are talking with. You may not receive the feedback as I mentioned, but you will bless others!

# DAY 23 (January 23)

# THE REQUIREMENT!

Micah 6:8

"He has shown you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?"

My thoughts wander back to the time when I was a small boy—(believe me . . . trying to remember that far back at my age is a task!). I can still hear the echoes of my mother telling me to be good. But no matter how hard I tried, I just seemed to get in more and more trouble.

Back then, corporal punishment was not the rank of a military member. It was the rod of correction applied to the seat of learning! This was very evident in our old church building. There was a wood furnace in the basement with a stack of kindling always next to it. It was years before I learned that the kindling was used to start a fire. I was convinced it was there for my mother to use in spanking me.

One Sunday evening stands out clearly in my memory. I had tried my mother's patience to the breaking point and, with a swoop, I was in her arms and we were heading for the basement and the familiar kindling pile. As I looked over her shoulder at the smiling congregation I cried out, "PRAY FOR ME!" I received extra licks for that outburst!

So what does the Lord require of each and every one of us? It is really quite simple: ". . . to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God." As we examine our life and walk with the Lord, it is essential that we keep that focus in mind. It is not what we can get away with, but what pleases the Lord that matters. Are you meeting God's requirement?

#  DAY 24 (January 24)

# THE STORMS OF LIFE!

Psalm 65:5-7

"You answer us with awesome deeds of righteousness, O God our Savior, the hope of all the ends of the earth and the farthest seas, who formed the mountains by your power, having armed yourself with strength, who stilled the roaring of the seas, the roaring of their waves, and the turmoil of the nations."

Do you sometimes feel like you would like to get away from it all? The rat race, I mean. You long for peace and tranquility which will settle your stress and frustration. Public television has aired a program called Alone in the Wilderness. It chronicles a year in the life of a man who left civilization and built a cabin in the Alaskan wilderness.

As idyllic as the scenes of the program might be, isolation is not the answer to the hustle and chaos of daily living. Man is, by his very nature, created to have interaction with others. There may be recluses that cut themselves off from other people, but by their actions they are revealing that there are problems which have not been resolved.

In Mark 4 we find the story of Jesus surrounded by a huge crowd of people. The crowd was so large that He got into a boat and sat in it as He taught the people who were on the shore. At evening He told His disciples to cross over to the other side of the lake.

Jesus was asleep on a cushion when a furious squall came up and threatened the boat He was in. Remember that many of these disciples were seasoned fishermen who had spent their lives out on this lake in all kinds of weather, but this was a storm that threatened to swamp them.

In their fear and alarm they called out to Jesus. It seemed impossible that He could sleep through such a storm. The men woke Jesus and asked Him if He didn't care that they were about to drown.

It is then that we read the quiet words of power which He proclaimed in Mark 4:39: "He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, 'Quiet! (Peace) Be still!' Then the wind died down and it was completely calm."

I want to remind you once more that these men were not unskilled recreational boaters. They had spent their lives in all kinds of weather conditions and if they felt that the situation was desperate, it really was. They had almost come to the conclusion that all was hopeless and they would never reach shore again. It seems they called out to Jesus only to announce their hopeless situation, to have Him prepare for their inevitable drowning. Jesus shocked them when He demonstrated that His power was great enough to control the forces of nature.

You may be facing situations that are threatening to swamp your boat. Now is the time to call on the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.

REMEMBER THAT IT IS JESUS WHO HAS THE POWER TO CALM THE STORMS IN YOUR LIFE.

#  DAY 25 (January 25)

# FAITH'S GATE!

Hebrews 11:1-3

"Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. This is what the ancients were commended for. By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God's command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible."

Joyce and I once lived in a gated community that required a remote control device to open the gate. It was designed to prevent unauthorized persons from entering. Only with the control that had been provided to us were we authorized to open the gate.

FAITH MAY BE DEFINED AS THE GATE THAT LEADS FROM OUR POVERTY TO GOD'S POWER.

In making that statement, I do not wish to give rise to a "name it and claim it" theology. All too frequently people use God's promises for their own selfish desires.

AS WE READ HEBREWS 11, IT IS ALMOST LIKE WALKING THROUGH GOD'S HALL OF FAME OF THE FAITHFUL MEN AND WOMEN WHO TRUSTED HIM WITH THEIR ALL.

These heroes of the faith saw something that was more important than life. They might have been shy and quivering cowards at one time in their lives, but they saw something that gave them courage and backbone worthy of merit.

These heroes of the faith stood tall and trusted God rather than circumstances. It was the faith of these heroes that brought joy to God's heart. He is delighted by men and women who choose to place their faith in Him rather than compromising with the world.

Down through the ages of history—even to our present day—there are men and women who have placed their reliance on things which are seen only through faith in God. In many cases, believers have endured pain, torture, and death knowing that eternal bliss waited just beyond their final breath.

Songwriter Oscar Eliason wrote, "Got any rivers you think are un crossable? Got any mountains you can't tunnel through?" He answered his own questions as he continues: "God specializes in things thought impossible, and He can do what no other power can do."

Every Christian faces obstacles along life's pathway, and walking in God's will doesn't guarantee that our way will always be easy. In fact, we are told that there will be tribulations in this life.

BUT NO MATTER HOW DIFFICULT THE CIRCUMSTANCES, WE CAN TRUST GOD TO OPEN THE GATES IN HIS TIME AND FOR HIS PURPOSES. WHEN HE DOES, WE CAN GO FORWARD BY FAITH.

# DAY 26 (January 26)

# "OUR PRAYER!"

Matthew 6:9-13

"In this manner, therefore, pray: Our Father in heaven, Hallowed be Your name. Your kingdom come. Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And do not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one. For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen."

IN HIS "SERMON ON THE MOUNT," JESUS GAVE HIS DISCIPLES THIS PATTERN PRAYER.

MOST OF US KNOW IT BY HEART, BUT LET US EXPLORE IT IN DETAIL TO SEE IF WE CAN DISCOVER MORE BIBLE TRUTH THAT WE MAY NOT HAVE SEEN BEFORE:

" _Our Father in heaven": God becomes our true spiritual Father the moment we pray to receive Him as Savior and Lord. When we are "Born again," our name is recorded in His "Lamb's Book of Life," and we are part of his family. We can now look forward to meeting Him in heaven._

" _Hallowed be Your name": God is a holy God and we must treat Him as holy._

" _Your kingdom come": We eagerly look forward to His soon return._

" _Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven": This sin-sick world is never going to be renewed until Jesus returns and makes all things new. What a fantastic day that will be!_

" _Give us this day our daily bread": God knows just how much we need for this day. We can totally rely on Him to supply our needs, not our extravagances._

" _And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors": We do not deserve to be forgiven of our sins of thought, word, and deed, but we certainly do need for God to forgive us. We may not feel that others deserve for us to forgive them, but we need to apply how God has forgiven us to forgive others._

" _And do not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one": God does not desire that we sin and does not cause us to sin. This portion of the prayer is asking God to lead us away from anything that may tempt us to sin. The closer we walk with the Lord and rely on His Word, the more He will be able to deliver us from Satan's evil devices._

" _For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen." The prayer begins with acknowledging the power and position of God and it ends with even more honor, praise and adoration._

The more we discover about who God is and what He has offered to those of us who accept Him, the more the things of this world seem to dim and pass away in light of His glory and grace.

EVEN SO, COME QUICKLY Lord JESUS!

#  DAY 27 (January 27)

# LEGALLY BINDING!

Matthew 5:34-37

"Again you have heard that it was said to those of old, 'You shall not swear falsely, but shall perform your oaths to the Lord.' But I say to you, do not swear at all: neither by heaven, for it is God's throne; nor by the earth, for it is His footstool; nor by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the great King. Nor shall you swear by your head, because you cannot make one hair white or black. But let your 'Yes' be 'Yes,' and your 'No,' 'No.' for whatever is more than these is from the evil one."

I hope that you have had the opportunity to read the comic strip Peanuts created by **Charles Shulz**. Though he passed away in 2000, it is still being carried by many newspapers **.**

One of the recurrent themes revolves around Charlie Brown and a girl named Lucy. She urges him to kick a football while she holds it for him.

Over the years this scenario has replayed itself over and over, and each time it ends up with poor Charlie flat on his back because Lucy pulled the ball away at the last moment. Today she again urged him to run and kick the ball while she held it.

CHARLIE REFUSED BECAUSE HE KNEW THAT SHE ALWAYS PULLED THE SAME TRICK ON HIM.

But today she sincerely promised that she would not pull the ball away. She even went so far as shaking Charlie's hand to confirm her promise.

**You know the outcome. Once again she pulled the ball away and Charlie went WUMP!—flat on his back. Lucy stands over Charlie and states rather Matter-of-factly, "A woman's handshake is not legally binding."**

**HOW VERY SAD THAT WE CAN SO EASILY GIVE OUR WORD AND THEN THOUGHTLESSLY BREAK IT.**

I am so glad that when God gives us His promises they are legally binding because His word is beyond question.

WE CAN RELY ON GOD AND HIS WORD AS STEADFAST AND SURE.

PRAISE THE LORD!

# DAY 28 (January 28)

# HIS PURPOSE!

Romans 8:28

"And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose."

In high school I lived near a Christian College and it was a rewarding experience to meet and fellowship with the students attending there.

One of these dynamic Christian collegians was named Herby Geller. He was a committed believer and had felt the call to become a medical doctor and serve as a medical missionary.

Herby met a young lady who felt called to serve as a nurse on some mission field. The two fell in love and were engaged to be married. It seemed to be God's perfect will for their lives. Then tragedy struck when Herby was suddenly killed in an automobile crash.

His fellow students were stunned by the news of his untimely death, but even through the tears, the funeral service for Herby was a time of celebration.

_Student after student stood and committed themselves to go into full-time Christian service. A few months later I was talking with Herby's mother._ **SHE SAID THAT OVER FIFTY STUDENTS HAD MADE THAT COMMITMENT.**

Over the years of time, God's servants have suffered, bled, and often died. Their hope was not in the things of this world, but in reaching a lost people for Jesus **. When we hold tightly to the things of this world, we will lose everything. When we let go and let God have His will and way, we will be able to observe Romans 8:28 in action.**

#  DAY 29 (January 29)

# REFRESHED!

Matthew 11:28-30

"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light."

Do you ever feel so tired that you can hardly take another step? There have been times in my life that I experienced those feelings. **AS A YOUNG FATHER I WAS TAKING A FULL COLLEGE LOAD AND WORKING 48 HOURS A WEEK AS A POLICE OFFICER.** **It makes me tired just to recall those days. I averaged about 5 hours of sleep each day.**

As I prayed to find relief, I was struck by the most unbelievable passage of Scripture―it was today's passage. **I could hardly believe that the Lord would ask me to do more than I was already doing, but in obedience I volunteered to teach a class of teenage boys**.

I cannot really explain the feeling, but the one thing I know is that I suddenly felt more energy and strength than I had felt before. The few hours of sleep refreshed more than they had previously, and I was able to touch kids that needed to hear about Jesus. In being obedient to the Lord, I received renewed strength.

Humanly speaking, it did not make sense to take more responsibility when I was so tired, but the Scripture is very plain. **THOSE WHO ARE AT EASE ARE IGNORED.** It is the weary and burdened believers that Jesus invites to take on His yoke **.**

If you feel that your load is crushing you down, take His yoke and you will feel His refreshing touch in your life.

##  DAY 30 (January 30)

## WAKE UP!

Romans 13:11-12

"And do this, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep; for now our salvation is nearer than when we first believed. The night is far spent, the day is at hand. Therefore let us cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armor of light."

When our oldest daughter, Brenda, was six years old, she became very nauseated and vomited everything she ate or drank for over two days. We took her to our family doctor who prescribed medication. There were four doses of the medication, but we were only able to get the last one to remain in her body. (Thank the Lord!)

We learned that the pharmacist had miss-filled the prescription — instead of the prescribed 2.5 mg. he had filled 25 mg. It was a huge difference for a small child. Within an hour Brenda was in a coma. We had no emergency room and the doctor came and sat beside her for several hours. The prognosis was very bleak.

After thirty-six hours at about 3:30 a.m., Brenda woke up. It was a time of rejoicing for us. The first thing she said was, "I'm hungry!" We asked her what she wanted and her request was for a hamburger. The only place open that hour of the morning was a grungy tavern/café that always stayed open to serve the railroad workers. I made a beeline for the place and returned with a burger and fries. She kept the food down and the long ordeal was over.

Sometimes I feel that many believers are like Brenda. They are in a spiritual coma and while they are not dead, they are lifeless. Do you find yourself in that condition right now? ". . **. LET US PUT ON THE ARMOR OF LIGHT."**

# DAY 31 (January 31)

# GOD'S PERFECT PLANS!

Jeremiah 29:11-13

"'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the LORD, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future. Then you will call upon Me and come and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. You will seek Me and find Me when you seek Me with all your heart. "

Today's Scripture is a strong passage that contains both promises and a condition. In addition it gives us an insight into the heart of God. He tells us that He has specific plans for us and that they are good plans. He explains that His desire is for our good.

All too often we are presented with an image of God who is out to get us and to cause us harm and discomfort. That is not the case. God is a holy and righteous God and desires that we be holy and righteous.

THANK THE LORD, HE FORGIVES US WHEN WE FALL SHORT OF HIS PLAN AND PURPOSE FOR US.

I once heard someone quote something that **Chuck Swindoll** had said. Chuck was commenting on the memories he desired to have fixed in the minds of his kids. He said that he would much rather have them recall their dad as the one who threw their mom into the swimming pool fully clothed, (and lived to tell about it), than a stern faced preacher who looked down his nose at those who did not measure up to his standards of conduct.

ME TOO, CHUCK!

My heart aches for the openness that we need in our world. It is my desire to be vulnerable rather than safe! I would rather be misused than never to be used at all.

I HOPE THAT MAKES SENSE. IF IT DOESN'T TO YOU, IT DOES TO ME.

The reason is that I was a kid, who for most of my early years, considered myself as being just a little slower than others.

I was told by teachers in my early grades that I was below normal, so I lived up to their expectations of me. God had another plan! He brought a girl into my life at age 14, who turned me inside out and upside down.

She let me know in no uncertain terms that I was what God wanted me to be and to strive to be my best. I married that dear sweetheart of mine when we were both 18—just six weeks after graduating from high school. That was back in '52, so you smart ones can figure out our age.

**WHAT DOES THIS HAVE TO DO WITH THE PASSAGE IN QUESTION?** **Everything! It means that we can do—and should do things as God leads us. We need to be convinced that God has special things in store for us who call upon Him and seek His will and His way.**

**NEVER, NEVER, TRY TO TELL GOD THAT YOU ARE NOT QUALIFIED TO DO WHAT HE CALLS YOU TO DO.** **He knows you better than you know yourself, and will enable you to do His work in His way.**

Our Scripture indicates that the first step in the process is to recognize that God has good and prosperous plans for us. This is not a prosperity gospel, but an awareness that it is for His glory and honor. As we are faithful in His service He will give us the sense of fulfillment that satisfies far more than the wealth of this world.

**After we are convinced that God is leading us, we are then ready to draw near to Him**.

We do this in a conscious way by spending time in his Word and in our prayerful conversations with Him. God promises that He will listen to us. You may feel that no one hears your heart's cry—but the Lord does. You can pour out your deepest thoughts, hopes, desires, disappointments, and anything that you are holding in, and He will listen to you.

There is also an addendum in the passage. He says we will seek Him and find Him (when) we seek Him with all of our heart.

That, my dear friend, is total commitment! It is not simply a little now I lay me down to sleep type of prayer, but a deep and sincere call to the God who loves us and has provided His Son as the ultimate payment for our sinful condition.

Wherever you have come from—wherever you are right now—God calls you to come to Him. Regardless of your situation in life He calls to you right there. He heard Joseph from the pit back in Canaan, from Potiphar's house, from the prison, and from the palace. His location did not determine whether God would hear him or not.

Even when it seemed that God did not hear him—God heard and He directed Joseph's steps to be a blessing to many. The same goes for you. SEEK HIM!

_Let me share something that a dear friend has shared: "God doesn't call the qualified; He qualifies the called." The "prosperity gospel" is better identified as a "generosity gospel" – because HE is generous._ **(Isaiah 65:24).**

# DAY 32 (February 1)

# WHAT HAPPENED?

Acts 9:3-7

"As he neared Damascus on his journey, suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him. He fell to the ground and heard a voice say to him, "Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?" 'Who are you, Lord?' Saul asked. 'I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting,' he replied. 'Now get up and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.' The men traveling with Saul stood there speechless; they heard the sound but did not see anyone."

This Daily-E-Votional may be directly for you, or it may be something for you to use in sharing with someone else. According to **Isaiah 55:11** , **GOD'S WORD NEVER RETURNS TO HIM VOID, BUT WILL ALWAYS ACCOMPLISH WHAT HE INTENDS.**

The story of Saul's conversion is a message of hope for everyone. It tells us that there are those moments in our life when the Lord confronts us with an urgent call that demands a response.

Just to refresh our minds, Saul was a Pharisee who was committed to the persecution and eradication of the followers of Jesus Christ.

**Two chapters earlier in the Book of Acts, we read that he was one of those who bore official witness to the stoning of Stephan. It is fascinating that at the time of Stephan's execution, Saul was not able to hear and see the things that Stephan was shown prior to his death**.

Now, here was Saul, traveling toward Damascus, with the deadly purpose of stamping out the life of any believers who accept Jesus as the promised Messiah. **SUDDENLY, IN AN INSTANT OF TIME, EVERYTHING CHANGED.**

He had a personal encounter with our resurrected Lord. A light from heaven was so strong that it caused him to become blind. **A voice penetrated Saul's innermost being with a question that was eternal, "Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?"**

It left Saul in absolute terror and left him no escape from answering. When Saul asked **"Who are you Lord?"** He answered his own question—it was the Lord and that was what Saul called Him. Jesus ordered Saul to continue his journey and it would be revealed to him what he was to do **. At this point Saul could either obey the call or reject it.** He could have attributed all of this to a bad dinner, or mental lapse — but he didn't. He followed and became a mighty apostle.

The others who were traveling along with Saul were struck dumb. They knew something earthshaking had happened, but did not have ears to hear the very words of God. Saul experienced conversion, but they heard only noise. It highlights the matter of our own personal choice.

Like them, you may have heard the sound (noise), but have not been open to hear the words of the Lord.

Notice that Saul was a very religious man, yet he was an eternally lost man without a conversion experience in his life. Self-satisfied religious devotion can never replace God's demand for our own personal conversion.

Saul and his companions continued their trip to Damascus, but only Saul had changed directions in his life. That is the way for all of us. We too can make a complete change and know that we are now bound for our heavenly home.

Here is a prayer which you may pray for yourself, or if you have prayed such a prayer, you may be able to lead someone else in praying:

" **LORD JESUS, I HAVE FELT YOU SPEAKING TO ME PERSONALLY.**

I KNOW THAT IT IS THE TIME FOR ME TO MAKE MY DECISION TO FOLLOW YOU. I CONFESS THAT I AM A SINNER AND CANNOT SAVE MYSELF. I WANT YOU TO COME INTO MY HEART AND BE MY SAVIOR AND LORD.

I WILL FOLLOW YOU AND OBEY WHAT YOU LEAD ME TO DO. THANK YOU FOR CARING ENOUGH FOR ME TO DIE FOR ME. I PRAY THIS IN JESUS' NAME, AMEN.

If you have prayed this prayer, and really mean it, tell someone. You may even write back to me and share it with me.

**Romans 10:9 says in part that, "-** _– if you confess with your mouth, 'Jesus is Lord,' and believe in you heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved."_

That is God's Word of instruction and assurance. We must act upon it by using our mouth to tell someone that we have prayed this prayer, and it must be based upon an inner knowledge that Jesus is truly the promised Messiah, sent to give us eternal life by believing on Him.

BLESSINGS DEAR HEARTS. WALK WITH GOD TODAY, TRUST HIM COMPLETELY AND BE A BLESSING.

Acts 9:3-7

"As he neared Damascus on his journey, suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him. He fell to the ground and heard a voice say to him, "Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?" 'Who are you, Lord?' Saul asked. 'I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting,' he replied. 'Now get up and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.' The men traveling with Saul stood there speechless; they heard the sound but did not see anyone."

# DAY 33 (February 2)

# "NEVER ALONE!"

Luke 16:22-26

"The time came when the beggar died and the angels carried him to Abraham's side. The rich man also died and was buried. In hell, where he was in torment, he looked up and saw Abraham far away, with Lazarus by his side. So he called to him, 'Father Abraham, have pity on me and send Lazarus to dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue, because I am in agony in this fire.' But Abraham replied, 'Son, remember that in your lifetime you received your good things, while Lazarus received bad things, but now he is comforted here and you are in agony. And besides all this, between us and you a great chasm has been fixed, so that those who want to go from here to you cannot, nor can anyone cross over from there to us."

HAVE YOU EVER BEEN FORCED TO STAND ALONE BECAUSE OF YOUR FAITH IN JESUS CHRIST?

At the time it may seem to be uncomfortable or downright miserable. Later you may have seen that to stand alone was by far the best thing you could ever have done.

As a teenager I was subject to peer pressure to do things that violated my conscience as a Christian. What made it even harder was that some of those that were doing these things "claimed" to be Christians as well. It was during this time that I felt the presence of the Lord drawing my attention to Him, rather than to be tempted by the appeal of worldly activities.

I still can recall that some of those who had pressured me to do these things, ran into trouble. Some of them came to me and said they regretted their actions and wished they had not yielded to temptation.

I have shared with you that as a US Air Force personnel officer, I spent a year on an unaccompanied assignment on the northern tip of Newfoundland. I can honestly say that I never felt tempted to yield to some of the sinful activities others were engaging in, but it required standing alone.

On one Saturday night there was a knock on my door. A civilian pilot asked if he could talk with me. It was actually in the wee hours of Sunday morning **. He was sobbing and asked if I could pray with him. He shared that he had just been notified that a pilot friend of his had crashed his plane a few hundred miles south of us.**

After I had prayed with him about being prepared to meet the Lord, I once again felt the blessed peace of the Lord. Even though I did not make it a practice of condemning others for their sinful activities, they knew they could come to me at the time they needed prayer. I was not a chaplain or pastor, but a follower of Jesus Christ.

I have had a thought running through my mind for years, but not able to phrase it. Recently I heard or read a statement that expresses it _: "I would rather live my life BELIEVING in God, only to die and find out He doesn't exist, than to live my life NOT BELIEVING in God, only to die and find out He does exist."_

Jesus came as God in the flesh. He believed in a literal heaven and hell. Read today's Scripture once again. This was a parable that Jesus used to teach that we all face eternity with or without God in our lives. What a pitiful picture Jesus describes of the rich man in hell.

In Romans 14:10a-13, we read these revealing words: "For we will all stand before God's judgment seat. It is written: 'As surely as I live,' says the Lord, 'every knee will bow before Me; every tongue will confess to God.' So then, each of us will give an account of himself to God."

We may be filled with our own self-sufficiency now, but there will come a time when each and every knee will bow before the Lord God Almighty. There will be no pride or arrogance then. We will bow in worship before Him. Those of us who have been born again will worship in adoration and love, while sinners will fall condemned because they have refused to receive His great salvation. Please accept Him while there is time!

Here is a prayer which you may pray for yourself, or if you have prayed such a prayer, you may be able to lead someone else in praying **: "LORD JESUS, I HAVE FELT YOU SPEAKING TO ME PERSONALLY. I KNOW THAT IT IS THE TIME FOR ME TO MAKE MY DECISION TO FOLLOW YOU. I CONFESS THAT I AM A SINNER AND CANNOT SAVE MYSELF. I WANT YOU TO COME INTO MY HEART AND BE MY SAVIOR AND LORD. I WILL FOLLOW YOU AND OBEY WHAT YOU LEAD ME TO DO. THANK YOU FOR CARING ENOUGH FOR ME TO DIE FOR ME. I PRAY THIS IN JESUS' NAME, AMEN."**

If you have prayed this prayer, and really mean it, tell someone. You may even write back to me and share it with me. Romans 10:9 says in part that, "- – IF YOU CONFESS WITH YOUR MOUTH, 'JESUS IS LORD,' AND BELIEVE IN YOU HEART THAT GOD RAISED HIM FROM THE DEAD, YOU WILL BE SAVED."

# DAY 34 (February 3)

# "WHERE IS GOD?"

John 17:9-11

"I pray for them. I am not praying for the world, but for those You have given Me, for they are Yours. All I have is Yours, and all You have is Mine. And glory has come to Me through them. I will remain in the world no longer, but they are still in the world, and I am coming to You. Holy Father, protect them by the power of Your name—the name You gave Me—so that they may be one as We are one."

"WHERE IS GOD WHEN I NEED HIM?"

  * " **If God is a God of love, why did He take my loved one?"**

  * " **If there really is a God, why does He allow such terrible things to happen in our world?"**

  * " **Why does God answer some prayers, yet seemingly ignore others?"**

  * " **Why do the righteous seem to endure hardships while the wicked seem to prosper?"**

HAVE YOU HEARD THESE QUESTIONS BEFORE? HAVE YOU ASKED THESE QUESTIONS BEFORE?

I was sitting beside the hospital bed of our oldest daughter, Brenda. The doctors had made the prognosis that she had a very short time to live—possibly a matter of days.

Brenda commented, "You know dad, I think I have been cheated." I acted innocent although I was sure that I knew what she was referring to. She continued, "Grandpa lived to be 74. I am only 33. I feel that I have been cheated out of half of my life!"

That night I went into the garage and swept some sand onto a sheet of paper. I sat at the kitchen table and carefully counted out 74 grains of sand. I placed these in a small sample perfume bottle.

The next day when I went to the hospital, I placed the small vial on Brenda's bed. She asked; "What is that? I told her it was grandpa, or at least the number of grains of sand that represented the years of his life.

I asked her to imagine that each of these small grains of sand represented one year. Next imagine that the entire world to its very core was entirely made up of sand. That would be only a small iota of the length of eternity. _"Now," I asked, "What are these 74 small grains in comparison to our world of sand?" Brenda replied; "Nothing." I then asked; "What is one half of nothing?" We began to laugh together._

The reality is that it is eternity that matters, not the length of our life or even the quality of our life. It is being washed in the blood of Jesus and becoming a new creation in Him that prepares us for eternity. Not the things we do for Him, but by accepting what He has done for us.

Jesus told a wonderful parable of the rich man and Lazarus. Here was a man who seemingly had all that the world could offer, yet he had made no provision for eternity. By not receiving eternal life in Christ, he was damned to a terrible eternity of suffering. Lazarus was just the opposite. He had experienced poverty and pain in his life, but he had also received the Lord as his Savior. His eternity was filled with peace and blessedness.

You may have recognized today's Scripture as being part of the prayer which Jesus prayed for His disciples. The prayer was not restricted to the disciples of His day, but for us as well. He wants His disciples of all ages to focus our attention on Him, not the temporal things which will pass away.

LET ME SHARE A LITTLE MORE OF THE PRAYER JESUS PRAYED IN OUR BEHALF.

John 17:14-19; "I have given them Your word and the world has hated them, for they are not of the world any more than I am of the world. My prayer is not that You take them out of the world but that You protect them from the evil one. They are not of the world, even as I am not of it. Sanctify them by the truth; Your Word is truth. As You sent Me into the world, I have sent them into the world. For them I sanctify Myself, that they too may be truly sanctified."

The Lord Jesus has prayed for our sanctification. That means that we are to turn from sin and walk in a new sense of commitment and dedication. Let's quit trying to play God by blaming Him or questioning the things that occur in our life.

One last verse. Proverbs 3:5-6: "Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight."

#  The Sands of Eternity - Pastor Cecil

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LM4xZmygeBI

Come sit down with Pastor Cecil and share a cup of coffee as he discusses some very important things about life, eternity, heaven, and your decisions in this life.

YOU CAN ALSO VISIT HIS WEBSITE AT http://www.PastorCecil.com/

DAILY EVOTIONAL WEBSITE AT   
http://www.daily-e-votional.com/

# DAY 35 (February 4)

# "THE EYE OF FAITH!"

Hebrews 11:1-3

"Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. For by it the elders obtained a good testimony. By faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that the things which are seen were not made of things which are visible."

IF SOMEONE WERE TO ASK YOU TO DEFINE FAITH, WOULD YOU HAVE AN INTELLIGENT ANSWER?

How do you describe something as intangible as faith? Is there a Scriptural basis and framework for faith? Beyond defining faith, do you possess the kind of faith that is pleasing to God?

I feel that we often define faith by simply quoting today's Scripture and leaving it at that. It is certainly a fantastic description of what faith is, but do we really capture the meaning? Words will remain only words without some way to attach them to a meaningful picture.

I have often visualized faith in this manner. Imagine with me that it is the afternoon on a warm summer day. **The thought suddenly comes to you that an ice cream cone would taste wonderful.** Three blocks away is the home of Friendly Fred's Forty Flavor Ice Cream Emporium and Fitness Gym. (That last part is just for the conscience).

On the walk down to Friendly Fred's, you try to think about some of the flavors that Fred has to offer. You suddenly recall that Fred has cherry chocolate delight with caramel streamers. (I doubt that there is such a flavor). As you think of the cone, you imagine two scoops piled onto the cone and spreading over the side. You can even picture having to lick the sweet tasting ice cream around the edge of the cone before it melts and runs down the side of the cone. Ahh, Yes!!

HERE COMES THE QUESTION.

AT WHAT POINT DO WE BEGIN TO ENJOY THE ICE CREAM CONE?

You are so right! It is the moment that we begin to visualize the cone and imagine what it will taste like. _It is seeing in our mind what is going to be a reality, even though we have not yet walked through the doors of Fred's Emporium._

FAITH IS CHOOSING TO SEE WHAT GOD DESIRES FOR US EVEN WHEN THE THING HAS NOT YET COME INTO BEING.

The writer of Hebrews has chosen chapter eleven to serve as the "Hall of Faith." He presents men and women of faith who had trusted God, even when it seemed that the thing hoped for was impossible.

HERE IS THE LIST:

ABEL, ENOCH, NOAH, ABRAHAM AND SARAH, ISAAC, JACOB, JOSEPH, MOSES' PARENTS, MOSES, JOSHUA AND RAHAB AND MILLIONS OF MARTYRS ACROSS THE AGES.

In our modern time, science, so-called, has attempted to brainwash students into believing that we are the result of the evolutionary model. _They claim that it was not a Supreme God who created all things, but tiny micronisms interacted with other elements around them, and can you believe it—amazingly, life was formed._ **BEEEP!**

SORRY, BUT THAT TAKES MORE FAITH THAN I CAN MUSTER. YES–EVOLUTION DOES REQUIRE FAITH–THE WRONG KIND!

It is a howl to observe the way atheistic scientists have stretched the truth far beyond the breaking point to prove their theory of evolution. In light of thousands of scientific findings in support of creation, they go further and further afield to find support.

Running out of ways to show that life evolved here on earth, now some have proposed that life evolved from some other planet – Mars! That is simply to place the problem beyond the bounds of this world. The question still remains, how did it start there?

Moses gives the answer, and one which is to be received by faith. God framed the worlds, the universe by His powerful word.

HE SPOKE, AND IT CAME INTO BEING!

It is not necessary to have the creation theory proven before we believe God's Word. We believe God's Word and then see the confirmation of His Word by His creation!

HERE IS THE BOTTOM LINE. THE ALMIGHTY GOD, WHO CREATED ALL THINGS BY THE POWER OF HIS WORD IS CERTAINLY ABLE TO DEAL WITH THE PROBLEMS WE ENCOUNTER IN OUR LIFE.

**How do we access that power? By faith!** It is not a matter of waiting to see some great miracle and then believe—we believe and then watch for His miracles _. I fear that we have missed many of God's miracles because we have failed to look for them._

I hope I can get this last thought across. It has to do with what we see through faith.

In place of the "I" in faith, picture a big eye ball. So here we go. Whatever you have been praying and trusting God to accomplish, visualize it through the eye of – – – FA<I>TH!!!

# DAY 36 (February 5)

#  BOOT CAMP FOR BELIEVERS!

I Thessalonians 1:4-6 "For we know, brothers loved by God, that He has chosen you, because our gospel came to you not simply with words, but also with power, with the Holy Spirit and with deep conviction. You know how we lived among you for your sake. You became imitators of us and of the Lord; in spite of severe suffering, you welcomed the message with the joy given by the Holy Spirit.

" **BELIEVERS"! WHAT A NAME! It was the name that was used to describe the members of the early New Testament church. It was actually used before the name "Christian", which was first used to describe the believers in Antioch. The name implies identification with Jesus. It is not simply believing, in something—it is being identified with some ONE!**

Back in the late 60's, I was in the US Air Force, stationed in Missouri. From time to time I visited with a dear pastor, Rev. Frank Meyers, in Warrensburg, Missouri. Frank shared that his first pastorate was in St. Joseph, Missouri, near a large meat packing company.

One of the workers there was a member of his congregation. This elderly meat packer had, at best, a 3rd grade education. Each day this man got off work at 3:00 p.m. almost every afternoon he would head for the pastor's study. **Frank said that old man, with such a limited education, taught him more about the true Word of God than all of his highly educated professors in college and seminary. It is my desire to be like that old unknown meat packer—a true believer!**

Please understand that it is not my intention to belittle professors. Some of my own professors were godly students of God's Word, who were faithful believers. **Unfortunately there were others who placed more value on their title "PROFESSOR" than "BELIEVER".**

As I was praying throughout the day and wondering what the Lord wanted me to share, my mind went back to the time I was an associate pastor in Nampa, Idaho. The Christian Education Director asked me to teach a class attended by many of the pillars of the church.

It was made up of retired pastors, missionaries, college professors and the like. (I WAS IN DEEP TROUBLE)!!! The Christian Education Director laughed and said, "Cecil, they are going to chew you up and spit you out!" Thanks for that encouragement, Bob! I could hardly wait to get started. – – – RIGHT!

I prayed fervently for leadership in being a humble believer. I will never forget that first Sunday. I could not get away from the burden of going back to the basics. I stood before them and said, "You know, I think we need to start at the beginning and learn the 'basics for believers' all over again."

I was prepared to be chewed up and spit out! To my absolute amazement I saw smiles all over the room which held about 100 members. _Someone finally spoke out loud and said "That's exactly what we need and what we want." WOW! Thank you Lord!_

I took my Boot Camp in the USAF in May 1953. It was a shock that rattled my cage and taught me that I was going to learn to do things the military way, not my way. In a similar fashion we need to understand three very important principles:

  1. STICK WITH THE BASICS.

  2. STUDY A PASSAGE OVER AND OVER UNTIL YOU UNDERSTAND IT.

  3. MODEL WHAT THE GOD'S WORD TEACHES.

Please read the entire book of I Thessalonians. It is only five chapters so you should be able to read it all the way through at one sitting. Even though there are only five chapters, they are dynamite.

#  DAY 37 (February 6)

#  "COMMITMENT OR COVENANT?"

I Chronicles 16:14-18

"He is the LORD our God; His judgments are in all the earth. He remembers His covenant forever, the word He commanded for a thousand generations, the covenant He made with Abraham, the oath He swore to Isaac. He confirmed it to Jacob as a decree, to Israel as an everlasting covenant: To you I will give the land of Canaan as the portion you will inherit."

**I RECEIVED A RESPONSE FROM A VERY DEAR FRIEND, WHO INCLUDED A BULLETIN INSERT THAT HER PASTOR INCLUDES ABOUT ONCE A YEAR. THERE ARE FIVE ITEMS THAT ARE INCLUDED AND THE PASTOR ASKS THAT THOSE WHO ARE WILLING, TO SIGN AND DATE THEIR INTENTION OF ENTERING INTO THESE PRINCIPLES. THE INSERTS ARE NOT TO BE TURNED IN, BUT RETAINED BY THE ONE WHO HAS MADE A COMMITMENT**.

LET ME SHARE THEM WITH YOU:

1. To worship regularly with the Christian community on Sunday (Hebrews 10:24-25) and to cultivate a lifestyle of worship through the practice of the spiritual disciplines of Bible study, prayer, fasting, etc. (Romans 12:1-2)

2. To be in a Life Group (small group ministry) as a means of connecting to God and one another in a smaller community experience as a means of developing stronger and more authentic relationships with God and each other. (Corinthians 12:12-27; Ephesians 3:14-21)

3. To be a lifelong learner of Jesus Christ by taking advantage of the various opportunities to grow spiritually (Adult Education, Spiritual Renewal Conference, etc.) as a means of learning more about loving God with my mind, living in authentic community and pouring myself into a ministry, mission or service project. (II Timothy 2:2 and 3:16; Colossians 1:28 and 4:2)

4. To live a whole life of stewardship that is guided by the movement of grace and gratitude, recognizing that I am graced by God with time, talents and treasure and that I am called to respond to that grace with a lifestyle of gratitude by aspiring to (giving of my time) in worship, ministry and mission of the church; by aspiring to give a tenth or more of my income to further the worship, ministry and mission of the church. (Romans 12:3-8; II Corinthians 9:6-15; Ephesians 4:1-16)

5. To intentionally seek opportunities to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ in word and deed with those who do not yet know Christ because God has called each of us to be a sign of God's love to the whole world. (Psalm 67:2; Matthew 28:16-20; Mark 16:15; Acts 1:8; I Peter 3:15-16)

______________________________________________  
Signature Date

Wow! I would encourage you to prayerfully consider signing these five areas of commitment. But before you do, let me suggest something to you. God calls us to enter into a Covenant relationship with Him. That Covenant is bathed in the blood of His own dear Son, Jesus Christ.

As I have shared many times, back before the days of contracts there was a covenant ceremony. The two people who were entering into the covenant would kill an animal and cut it in two pieces. They would join hands and as they walked between the pieces of the slain animal they would utter together; **"May it be done unto me as has been done to this animal if ever I break this covenant." That my precious friend is powerful!**

# DAY 38 (February 7)

# "OUR NEW HOME!"

II Corinthians 5:1-3

"Now we know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands. Meanwhile we groan, longing to be clothed with our heavenly dwelling, because when we are clothed, we will not be found naked."

Recently I was watching a documentary about wild animals in south Texas. A man had two tigers and six or seven bears cooped up in small cages. These wild animals were meant to live in large expanses. Instead the owner had placed them in small cages four feet by eight feet and six feet high.

Most of these creatures had been there for over eight years; but one of the bears had been there much longer. He was about 30 years old.

It was heartbreaking to see them languishing in these tiny cages that were located in an old abandoned chicken coop. The police along with veterinarians from the Houston Zoo had come to rescue them. The animals had no idea what was happening and were frightened by the team of rescuers.

One by one the animals were coaxed into containers to transport them back to the zoo for examination, treatment and release to natural habitats in the zoo. As horrible as their conditions had been, they were accustomed to them and the fear of the unknown was very stressful for them.

After a few weeks of quarantine at the zoo, the animals were transferred to enclosures that were designed to look like their natural habitat. One of the tigers was shown as he took his first steps into this "new home". He cautiously took his first steps in his amazing new home.

One of the most memorable things was his reaction to his first steps on grass. All of his life he knew nothing but a hard artificial bit of flooring. Now he had a large new enclosure complete with greenery and even a stream. It was a delight to see him frolic in the water for the first time in his life.

As I watched that tiger coming alive to his new world I thought of our eternal home. Sometimes we become so acclimated to this old miserable world that we fail to think about what the Lord has prepared for those of us who have passed from death to life by being born again by the blood of Jesus.

Perhaps one of the most revealing peeks into our new eternal home is given by Stephen as he was about to be stoned to death.

Oh, how glad I am that this dear servant of Jesus Christ showed a glimpse into our glorious new home that is waiting for us **. Here is what Stephen said in Acts 7:55-56:** _"But Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, looked up to heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. 'Look,' he said, 'I see heaven open and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God."_

A few verses later we read that as he was being stoned, he prayed for the Lord to forgive those who were executing him. He then fell asleep.

He stepped into a world beyond anything we can begin to imagine. He had entered into a place that was going to be his new home for eternity. I want each of us to be prepared to one day arrive at —OUR NEW HOME! What a day that will be!

# DAY 39 (February 8)

#  "THROUGH GOD'S EYES!"

Hebrews 4:12-13

"For the Word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Nothing in all creation is hidden from God's sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of Him to whom we must give account."

I heard a song on Christian radio early this morning. I have heard it before but have not been able to get all of the words correctly. Even though I do not have all of the lyrics, the message is quite clear. It goes something like this **: "If I could see the world like God sees, I would live more like Him."**

In a way we can see the world as God sees. We see the world as God sees the world by spending time in God's Word. The Bible is not simply the words and logic of human creation—It is the voice of God—the breath of God which breathed through the writers and reveals to us His view of the world.

Psalm 139:1-4 reveals the depth of God's plan purpose and provision for us: "O LORD, You have searched me and You know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; You perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and my lying down; You are familiar with all my ways. Before a word is on my tongue You know it completely, O LORD."

Since God knows us more intimately than anyone else we can be sure that He wants us to view the world and all of the inhabitants in the world through His eyes. As a child I can remember us singing a song that has tremendous impact: "Jesus loves the little children, all the children of the world. Red and yellow, black and white, they are precious in His sight, Jesus loves the little children of the world."

Does God love the little children of the world? Does He love the "big" children (adults) of the world? The answer is a resounding—YES! When a member of the Jewish ruling council came to Jesus one night, he wanted to know more about the Lord.

What Jesus revealed to Nicodemus, was a view of how Jesus sees the world _. In John 3:16-17: "We observe how Jesus sees the world: "For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through Him."_

Look around you. Who do you see? It may be the most educated and sophisticated person you have ever seen. On the other hand you may be viewing the most repulsive and offensive person. Do you see the similarity between the two? God sent His Son, Jesus Christ, to offer them His love through His death on the cross.

If Jesus came into this world with the express purpose of shedding His blood for the remission of sins for all who will come to Him, how should you and I view each and every person?

In the city of Portland, Oregon, a little girl came from a poor home. Someone invited her to come to a small church in her neighborhood. On the first Sunday she came, she wore dirty clothes and was not too clean herself. Praise God there were a group of people who saw her as Jesus saw her. She was welcomed and made to feel a part.

One day she prayed and invited Jesus to come into her heart. Over the years she grew in the Lord and also grew in wisdom and knowledge. She attended college and graduate school and eventually she became a faculty member of a Christian College.

I was serving on the staff of a church with the man who had been her pastor those many years ago when she first came to his church. HE SHARED WITH ME THAT EVERY TIME HE SAW THIS LOVELY AND EDUCATED WOMAN, HE THOUGHT BACK TO THE FIRST DAY SHE HAD COME TO HIS CHURCH. VERNON SAW HER AS GOD SAW HER!

# DAY 40 (February 9)

# "A PEEK AT HEAVEN!"

Revelation 21:10-11

"And he carried me away in the Spirit to a mountain great and high, and showed me the Holy City, Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God. It shone with the glory of God, and its brilliance was like that of a very precious jewel, like a jasper, clear as crystal."

There is a caustic comment that I have heard, and have used more than one time: **"IT'S HARD TO SOAR WITH THE EAGLES, WHEN YOU HAVE TO LIVE WITH A BUNCH OF TURKEYS!"**

The problem with that attitude is that we tend to focus our minds on the things of this world that will pass away, and fail to visualize the heaven that is waiting for us.

Thinking about heaven is especially comforting when you are going through the storms or valleys of life. Joyce and I have just been talking about how many of our family and friends who are experiencing many trials related to serious medical conditions or the loss of loved ones.

We remind each other to pray for people during their times of crisis. We have gone through quite a bit ourselves. We lost our oldest daughter to a rare heart condition in 1991. Our youngest daughter had a successful kidney transplant in 2001 and a pancreas transplant in 2002. This old world is just not a pleasant place to live at times!

FACED WITH THE TRIALS OF LIFE, WE HAVE TWO CHOICES.

  1. We can either choose to whimper and whine about all of the painful experiences of life,

  2. Or we can see life through a whole new dimension by looking forward to heaven.

That is what I choose to do, so fasten your computer belts, and away we go.

We have to understand that we are not going to be able to get much more than a blurry view of our eternal home.

From this side, we can only catch glimpses by the word pictures that are painted for us. John describes his view of the New Jerusalem in chapters 22 and 23 of the Book of Revelation.

John describes gold, crystal clear jewels, and light that is indescribable. Sometimes we are treated to the view of spectacular jewels.

I can recall several years ago, going through the Smithsonian Museum in Washington D.C., and seeing the Hope Diamond. Think of entire buildings being made of the same type of material, but even more brilliant and clear!

HEAVEN WILL BE A PLACE WHERE THERE WILL NOT EVEN BE A CONCEPT OF DARKNESS.

Here on earth we have light supplied by the sun, moon, stars and artificial sources. We are told that in the New Jerusalem, the glory of God will be the source of light. When the sources of light are gone, or even in the shadows, we experience darkness.

We will be released from fear and foreboding. In this world of sin and shame, we know darkness that comes from separation from the source of light. That engenders a dread of what lies ahead. **WE MIGHT ENJOY THE DAY IN WHICH WE LIVE, BUT THERE IS ALWAYS TOMORROW! OH, THE TOMORROWS OF LIFE!**

They are filled with shadows of sickness, pain, turmoil and death. In heaven we will experience the glory of God and there will be no shadow, or darkness, or pain or any of the things that we live with in this life.

I know that many have been afraid of reading from the Book of Revelation. When we see the awful judgment that comes upon the world because of the sin of man, we shy away from it.

LET ME ENCOURAGE YOU TO START BY READING CHAPTERS TWENTY-ONE AND TWENTY-TWO.

It will give you a fantastic rush to see the glorious home that God has prepared for us. Keep in mind that Jesus is the winner and we are going to be with Him forever and forever.

THE FEW BUMPS AND LUMPS THAT WE GO THROUGH HERE ARE NOTHING IN VIEW OF WHAT WE HAVE WAITING FOR US.

I want everyone who reads this to have your heart right with God. Confess that you are a sinner and ask Jesus Christ, God's dear Son who shed His blood for you, to come into your heart.

EXPERIENCE THE NEW BIRTH THAT JESUS PROMISED.

He is more anxious to come into our lives than we are to let Him in. When we say yes to God, He will say yes to us and receive us. Then read about your new home!

# DAY 41 (February 10)

# "THE WEAK-END!"

"2 Corinthians 12:8-10 "Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. (His thorn in the flesh). But He said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong."

DID YOU THINK I MADE A SPELLING ERROR IN THE TITLE OF TODAY'S E-VOTIONAL? **I can just hear someone saying, "It should be week-end! Pastor Cecil really missed on that one!" Sorry, Charlie! I intended to spell it WEAK-end.**

When we come to the end of the week, we sometimes collapse for a couple of days before returning to work on Monday morning. The activities on our days of rest are intended to refresh, restore, and prepare us for another week in the rat-race.

**DO WE REALLY EXPERIENCE REST? Think of the number of times you could hardly wait for the week-end to end so you could return to work and rest up.** The yard work, house maintenance projects, strenuous sporting endeavors would leave you a quivering bowl of Jell-O.

Starting a new week is a wonderful time to consider the weak-end. It sounds crazy, but God delights in operating opposite to human reasoning. God does things His way and in His timing. We may never understand how or why, but simply trust Him to do what we are never capable of doing ourselves.

**IN LUKE 6:38, JESUS TAUGHT THE PRINCIPLE OF GIVING TO THE LORD:** **"Give, and it shall be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap."**

**Do I understand that? Absolutely not!** But God does not do things just so I will understand them. _Faith demands that I choose to believe without understanding. In my mind, the more you keep, the more you have._ But across the years we have practiced and witnessed that **WHEN WE GIVE TO THE LORD FIRST, PROVISION SEEMS TO COME FROM UNEXPECTED SOURCES.**

I remember back in the 60's leading a men's Bible study breakfast. One of the men in our group was in dire financial need and even on the verge of bankruptcy. I suggested that we demonstrate our love by giving a significant offering. When we passed a Bible around to receive the love offering, several hundred dollars was raised. Even though the man in need was stunned by the love these brothers in Christ had shown to him, he acknowledged that it was not enough to hardly scratch the surface of his debt. I then urged him to start giving as unto God and allow the Lord to work a miracle. In less than one year the man was completely out of debt!

There was also an intriguing side story that took place that morning. One of the men came up to me after the meeting and said that he had a $50 bill he wanted to give, but it was hidden in his freezer **. My mouth must have dropped open because he quickly explained that he had saved here and there until he was able to have a $50 bill. He had planned to have a fancy hair style done later that week. He took the money "off ice" and gave it to the needy brother.** I suddenly thought to remind him to pay close attention to what would happen in the coming weeks. _He had given "as unto the Lord," and if Luke 6:38 was true, he should see results. Within two weeks, something like $200 came in from unexpected sources. Wow!_

So, when we read what Paul has to say about human weakness, it again is a paradox. It is when we are weak that we become strong. The less energy, stamina, health, muscle tone, endurance, power, drive, and resources we have—the more God's power comes into play.

DO WE UNDERSTAND IT? NO! DO WE NEED TO UNDERSTAND IT? NO! WE ONLY NEED TO YIELD TO HIM.

# DAY 42 (February 11)

#  "I DON'T HAVE TIME!"

Psalm 119:145-148

"I call with all my heart; answer me, O Lord, and I will obey Your decrees. I call out to You; save me and I will keep Your statutes. I rise before dawn and cry for help; I have put my hope in Your Word. My eyes stay open through the watches of the night, that I may meditate on Your promises."

How many times have you complained about never having enough time for Bible study, prayer, and meditation on His Word? I am not counting, but I would guess that a vast number of you have your hands raised.

Back in the 70's I was working in a high pressure job and was deeply concerned about this very issue. Try as I might I could not seem to find the time for study. **MY PROBLEM WAS THAT I WAS TRYING TO COME UP WITH THE SOLUTION ON MY OWN.**

It suddenly dawned on me that I needed to pray and ask the Lord to show me where I could find the time I needed. Almost immediately He answered my prayer.

As I looked at my schedule, I asked the Lord to direct my mind to times I could spend with Him. Immediately I noticed time in the morning before the rest of the family were awake. I figured I could rise twenty minutes early and still get plenty of sleep.

The second nugget of pure gold was the lunch hour. Rather than going out to lunch, I could bring my lunch along with my Bible study materials so I would be ready to enjoy an hour with my Lord.

It worked! Not only was the plan successful, it motivated other Christians who worked for our agency to start their own time of study. **At first I felt they were intruding when they dropped in to ask a question about a certain passage, but then I realized that steel sharpens steel:** _"As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another"_ **(Proverbs 27:17).**

Not only did the Lord show me periods of time to spend with Him, I suddenly had more time than ever before. It was a wonderful testimony to His control over our activities.

There is one phrase in today's Scripture that I would like to mention: **"...THAT I MAY MEDITATE ON YOUR PROMISES."**

What does that mean? I will tell you what it means—it means that we need to hide God's Word in our heart so we can bring it back to our mind over and over.

**HOW CAN WE MEDITATE ON GOD'S PROMISES IF WE HAVE NOT HIDDEN THEM IN OUR HEART?** A favorite singing group of ours (Ponder, Harp and Jennings) have a song with this phrase: **"You can't stand on God's promises if you don't know what they are!" DO YOU KNOW SOME OF THEM?**

# DAY 43 (February 12)

# "SMALL THINGS!"

James 3:3-5

"When we put bits into the mouths of horses to make them obey us, we can turn the whole animal. Or take ships as an example. Although they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are steered by a very small rudder wherever the pilot wants to go. Likewise the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark."

Late one Sunday evening I stumbled on a program about American Airlines. I only watched for a few minutes, but since then I have been thinking about the information what was being presented.

A former astronaut had been hired by American Airlines to assist in reducing their operation costs. This consultant began to analyze the effect of weight on the amount of fuel used by the planes; reducing weight conserves fuel. It seems that instead of going to the larger items, he started with rather small things.

He interviewed the flight attendants about how often the passengers read the company magazine that was placed in each seat pocket—they reported that the magazines were almost never read. **THE MAGAZINES AVERAGED ABOUT 50 POUNDS PER PLANE.** **One would assume that such an insignificant amount would not make a difference. Not so! Removing the magazines from all of the planes in the American Airlines fleet saved about $1 million dollars annually.** **THAT IS A SIGNIFICANT FIGURE!**

There were other items removed, but the lowly magazine was the one that stood out in my mind. It made me realize that many of the things in our life that seem small and petty can result in major consequences.

Let's consider a small stretching of the truth. Okay, let's be honest and call it a little white lie. (Personally, I do not think that there is any such thing as a "little" lie).

Let's imagine that I oversleep and realize that I am going to be late for work. I call the office and make up an excuse that I have a flat tire and it is taking me longer to fix it because my spare tire is also flat. (That is more than a little lie, it is a bold faced lie—but I couldn't think of another example).

NOW IMAGINE THAT A CO-WORKER DECIDES TO COME TO MY RESCUE. THEY HAVE THE SAME MAKE AND MODEL VEHICLE AS MINE SO THEY KNOW THEIR SPARE TIRE WILL FIT. ON THE WAY TO ASSIST ME THEY ARE INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT THAT LANDS THEM IN THE HOSPITAL. NOW HOW BIG IS MY "SMALL" LIE?

There are also positive things that seem small. We may say that we have a terrible memory and are unable to memorize Scripture. _However, we covenant to memorize and meditate on just one verse each week._ Is that a small thing? At the end of the year we bow before the Lord and use the verses we have hidden in our heart to glorify His name. _How many verses can we use? If my math and my calendar are correct, it will be 52. Isn't that amazing_!

WHAT ARE THE "SMALL" THINGS IN YOUR LIFE?

# DAY 44 (February 13)

# "NEW POWER!"

Isaiah 40:30-31

"Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint."

Do you have purpose in your life? I certainly do! If for nothing else, it is to put new batteries in watches, clocks, and other such stuff that run on **AAA, AA, D, C, or 9** volt types. **Oops! How could I forget the dreaded watch batteries?!**

Back in the day, we did not have all of these different size batteries to run wind-up or plug-in devices. All the same, the various devices always needed to have their power renewed on a regular basis to continue operating.

You know what is coming next, don't you?...a spiritual application. I firmly believe that we should approach the most ordinary facets of our life in the same manner that we should approach Bible study: **WHAT DOES IT SAY? WHAT DOES IT MEAN? HOW CAN I APPLY IT TO MY LIFE?**

The first reality that comes to mind when I think of batteries dying or springs winding down, is that there needs to be a constant renewing. Let me quote an explanation of the Second Law of Thermodynamics: "The implications of the Second Law of Thermodynamics are considerable.

The universe is constantly losing usable energy and never gaining. We logically conclude the universe is not eternal. The universe had a finite beginning — the moment at which it was at 'zero entropy' (its most ordered possible state). Like a wind-up clock, the universe is winding down, as if at one point it was fully wound up and has been winding down ever since. The question is: Who wound up the clock?"

What is true in the scientific world is also true in the spiritual world. Without a consistent renewal of our spiritual fervor, we will begin to lose our power. What does that mean? It means that we will become shells of what we were meant to be.

God had intended for Israel to be a Kingdom of Priests to the whole world. The people were delivered from the bondage of slavery in Egypt. They saw miracle after miracle, but soon allowed their fervency for the Lord to wane.

God sent His prophets to recharge the nation's batteries, but their hearts became dead to His call and they finally refused to acknowledge Him. Instead of proclaiming God to the nations of the world, they needed to be revived themselves.

I have worked with many Christians who started their walk with the Lord full of vim and vigor. They had the potential to be mighty servants of the Most High God, but lost their original power.

**JESUS DESCRIBES THESE CHRISTIANS IN REVELATION 2:3-5:** _"You have persevered and have endured hardships for My name, and have not grown weary. Yet I hold this against you: You have forsaken your first love. Remember the height from which you have fallen! Repent and do the things you did at first. If you do not repent, I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place."_

The Lord gives us the secret of being re-energized: _"Repent and do the things you did at first."_ We may think that there is nothing for us to repent of, but if we place anything between ourselves and the Lord, it will sap our spiritual strength and leave us dead and worthless **. I PRAY THAT WE MAY BE RENEWED!**

# DAY 45 (February 14)

#  WHAT'S IN IT FOR ME?!

John 6:32-35

"Jesus said to them, 'I tell you the truth, it is not Moses who has given you the bread from heaven, but it is My Father who gives you the true bread from heaven. For the bread of God is He who comes down from heaven and gives life to the world.' 'Sir,' they said, 'from now on give us this bread.' Then Jesus declared, 'I am the bread of life. He who comes to Me will never go hungry, and he who believes in Me will never be thirsty."

Have you ever wondered about the short-sighted crowd of over 5,000 who had been fed on a small boy's lunch and then wanted more? They followed Jesus across Galilee, not to worship Him, but to get free bread on a regular basis.

Before we become too critical of these free-lunch seekers, what about our own selfish attitudes? Is it just possible that we serve the Lord for what it will benefit us?

Let me get up close and personal. Have you ever felt that you were deserving of God's gifts and blessings because you were a good and faithful servant? I recall hearing about a precious servant of God who travelled the globe to help and encourage missionaries.

With a sad heart he discovered that there were many sincere hearts who were there, not because God had called them, but because they thought if they did something noble for the Lord they would be blessed.

Often we hear appeals to give, serve, or go in order to receive physical and financial blessings.

My study of the book of Job reveals that this most righteous man in all the earth lost it all: Sheep, oxen, camels, donkeys, servants, and the greatest loss of all—his ten children.

How would you respond to that blast from the furnace of adversity? Here is how Job responded in 1:2 _: "Naked I came from my mother's womb, and naked I will depart. The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away. May the name of the Lord be praised?"_

THERE, MY DEAR FRIEND, IS A TRUE HERO OF THE FAITH!

Joseph experienced horrible treatment even though he was innocent before the Lord. Why did he have to endure year after year in an Egyptian prison even though he was innocent?

God was going to use him to be the salvation of his family so that God's people would be birthed.

Did Joseph see all of the results? Not really. He was reunited with his family, but it would be over 400 years before God's people would come out as a people of God's choosing.

Whatever we do, we must not think that God is obligated to fill our bank account or place us in a mansion (that is coming later) because we are faithful and obedient.

His blessings are so far above the mere "stuff" of this world that it is a waste of time to seek after things that will pass away.

I remember a sign that marked the entrance into Northwest Nazarene College many years ago. There was a Scripture verse above the sign that still burns into my mind. _Matthew 6:33: "Seek ye first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you._

# DAY 46 (February 15)

# BE READY!

I Thessalonians 4:15-18

"According to the Lord's own Word, we tell you that we who are still alive, who are left till the coming of the Lord, will certainly not precede those who have fallen asleep. For the Lord Himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the Archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever. Therefore encourage each other with these words."

We have experienced tremendous major catastrophic events in recent years, and it causes even the most cynical doubters to wonder what is happening.

TORNADOS, HURRICANES, EARTHQUAKES, TIDAL WAVES, TERRORIST ATTACKS—YOU NAME IT.

Whenever we experience a tragic occurrence, the natural response is denial, depression, or some other type of negative reaction. But in today's Scripture, Paul is telling us that in these times of trial, we are to encourage one another with these words. What words? The assurance that we will rise to meet the Lord in the air, and be with Him forever! Praise the Lord!

**IN MATTHEW 24:6-8, JESUS TOLD OF MANY THINGS THAT WERE SIGNS WHICH WOULD BE INDICATORS OF THE END OF THE AGE. HERE ARE JUST A FEW HE MENTIONS:** _"You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come. Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom will rise against kingdom. There will be famines and earthquakes in various places. All of these things are the beginning of birth pains."_

Jesus says that not only nation rising against nation, but also kingdom against kingdom. That indicates the upheaval within the borders of nations. Just think of the many conflicts as ethnic group's revolt within a nation.

Killer earthquakes have increased so dramatically in the past twenty-five years that it is hard to deny that a significant sign is revealed. In his book Armageddon, Grant Jeffrey lists the frequency of killer earthquakes by decade, since 1890, that register more than 6.5 on the Richter scale: 1890-1899 (1); 1900-1909 (1); 1910-1919 (3);1920-1929 (2); 1930-1939 (5); 1940-1949 (4); 1950-1959 (9); 1960-1969 (13); 1970-1979 (56); 1980-1989 (74); 1990-1995 (125); (Notice this is only half a decade).

As we observe the calamities (natural or manmade) which are occurring with alarming regularity, it should awaken us to the need for action. Jesus speaks of birth pains **. I AM SURE THESE PAINS WILL INCREASE MORE AND MORE UNTIL THE TIME OF THE END.** We need to work as we have never worked before to share the message of salvation. We never have to work to attain our salvation or to maintain our salvation, but we do need to work to share the wonderful message of salvation.

As we anticipate the trumpet call of God, it is time for us to examine our lives. Do we still have a fervent love of God, or have we lost our first love? I think it is a time for us to make a new dedication to the Lord. **MAY OUR PRAYER BE, IN LIGHT OF WHAT IS HAPPENING AROUND US, TO REMEMBER A VITAL TRUTH: WE WILL GIVE AN ACCOUNT FOR EVERY ACTION (OR OUR FAILURE TO ACT) WHEN WE STAND BEFORE THE LORD. WE SHOULD LIVE AS IF WE WILL BE WITH HIM THE NEXT MINUTE. WE MIGHT BE!**

# DAY 47 (February 16)

# SWEET SLEEP!

Isaiah 26:3-4

"You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in You. Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord, the Lord, is the Rock eternal."

HAVE YOU EVER SPENT A SLEEPLESS NIGHT TOSSING AND TURNING? Have you been troubled by frightening dreams that cause you to feel panic stricken? Do you sometimes question what you can do to sleep soundly in the arms of the Lord?

During our Sunday morning prayer time, a little 5-year-old girl requested prayer that she will not have "scary dreams at night." Her mother also expressed concern because of the bad dreams.

Since then I have been praying and meditating about Hailey's request and the bad dreams. Last night, as I went to sleep, I was praying for her to have a restful sleep. During the night I had a recurring dream that I was to write a small book using Bible references for parents to read to their children before bedtime.

It was probably the most vivid dream I have ever had. Today I have started writing the book, and as I have researched appropriate Bible stories, I have been aware that there are adults that need peaceful sleep as well.

Today's Scripture is a wonderful passage for we adults to use before we retire for the night. It is a promise that the Lord has given to those who will keep their minds stayed on Him.

Here is a challenge for anyone who has been having trouble with night terrors: Search out passages that deal with praise and promise. **READ THESE PASSAGES SEVERAL TIMES BEFORE YOU SLIP INTO BED. MAY GOD GRANT YOU SWEET SLEEP!**

#  DAY 48 (February 17)

# ACCEPT AND KNOW!

Proverbs 2:1-5

"My son, if you accept My words and store up My commands within you, turning your ear to wisdom and applying your heart to understanding, and if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding, and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure, then you will understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God."

Years ago I heard a humorous story of a city dweller who failed to follow directions and ultimately found himself on a country road, hopelessly lost, having no idea where he was. He saw a farm hand working in a field, got out of his car and walked up to the fence, motioning to the farm hand to come over. He asked directions to his destination, but the farmer didn't know. He then asked how to get back to the main road. Again the farmer was not able to tell him.

The traveler was enraged and frustrated that the farmer was so dense. He flailed his arms in the air and said, "You are the most infuriating and stupid man I have ever met!" The farmer merely shrugged and replied, "THAT MAY BE TRUE, BUT I AM NOT THE ONE WHO IS LOST."

Sometimes it is easy to put on a facade of spirituality that is not based on fact. The bottom line is that we often lack the wisdom God has promised **. In today's Scripture, Solomon gives the key to true wisdom.**

There are two words that I would like us to focus on: **"ACCEPT"** and **"STORE."** It may be helpful to use the computer as an example. When you read this Daily-E-Votional on the screen, we can relate that to "accepting" the message **. YOU READ IT, DELETE IT, AND IT IS GONE.**

However, there may be a Daily-E-Votional that really hits home and you do not want to lose it; so instead of deleting it, you "save" it. That relates to the word "store" in today's Scripture.

**What is the difference?** We may **"ACCEPT"** and enjoy reading a passage of Scripture. (If you are like me, your forgetting is better than your recalling. I can't remember all of the things I have forgotten! Moan! That was bad, even for me!)

How do we "STORE" the precious Word of God? MEMORIZE! How do we memorize? Repetition! Isaiah 28:10: "For it is: Do and do, do and do, rule on rule, rule on rule; a little here, a little there."

One of the best ways to memorize is to use 3X5 cards. Write the passage of Scripture you want to memorize on the card(s). Take the cards with you and, at every opportunity, read and re-read—try to recite from memory until you get the passage firmly in your mind.

I have had people look forward to traffic delays or red lights since it gave them time to go over the memory work. **That is the way we "STORE" GOD'S WORD IN OUR HEART, available to use as the Holy Spirit directs.**

#  DAY 49 (February 18)

# SEED SOWING!

Matthew 13:31-32

"He told them another parable: 'The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed, which a man took and planted in his field. Though it is the smallest of all your seeds, yet when it grows, it is the largest of garden plants and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and perch in its branches."

For the next three E-Votionals I will be using these three titles: Seed Sowing; Weed Pulling; and Harvest Reaping. I would have liked to use a rhyming title for the third day, but my creative juices ran dry!

It has always amazed me how some people are able to prepare soil and plant seeds that seem to explode out of the ground and bear a crop of amazing abundance. A former neighbor of ours raised huge Hubbard squash plants in a few round planters. We would watch as the seeds grew into sprouts that soon filled the planters with many lush green leaves. By harvest time, he would have reaped several hundred pounds of squash.

My experience with growing things has not produced the same results. As I meditate on the subject of sowing seeds, I am aware that in order to grow, there must be a death. Seeds by themselves will never reproduce and bear a crop. They will remain just a single seed.

I once read that archaeologists discovered wheat seeds that had been placed in jars and left in tombs deep inside pyramids. The seeds remained just as they had been several thousand years earlier when placed there. One of the archaeologists took some of the seeds and planted them in the ground and watered them. After a short time, shoots began to appear and, after a normal growing period, a head of grain appeared that produced many seeds.

Jesus taught this truth in John 12:24: "I tell you the truth, unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds." For believers there are two aspects of sowing seed. We need to be busy sowing seeds, and that means sharing the gospel. One of the ministries we support is a Juvenile Correctional Center. The faithful servant who devotes his time to sow seeds in that field called me today. He shared that several young men have accepted Jesus Christ into their hearts and have been baptized. Praise the Lord! A second aspect in sowing seed is recognizing that we are seeds. That being the case, we need to die to self in order to produce the harvest that Christ desires—as we give ourselves totally to Him instead of demanding our own way. Increasingly we need to pray, "Not my will, Lord, but Thy will be done!"

# DAY 50 (February 19)

# WEED PULLING!

Matthew 13:24-26

"Jesus told them another parable: 'The kingdom of heaven is like a man who sowed good seed in his field. But while everyone was sleeping, his enemy came and sowed weeds among the wheat, and went away. When the wheat sprouted and formed heads, then the weeds also appeared."

Yesterday I wrote about Seed Sowing, and tomorrow it will be Harvest Reaping. In between these two is the distressing subject of Weed Pulling. It is a subject that I wish did not exist—but it does. Yesterday I confessed that my skills at growing things are extremely lacking. Weeds, on the other hand, seem to flourish without effort. In fact, they spring forth without any preparation or care.

We once owned a home with over two acres of lawn. As I sat on the riding lawnmower looking down at the grass, I noticed something. The dandelions grew much easier than the grass. They would turn from a pretty yellow flower into an ugly white ball of fluff. The wind would catch these balls and little "parachute like" seedlings would drift along and start new plants. (Why couldn't my garden plants grow as easily?!)

**HOW DOES THIS KNOWLEDGE APPLY TO SPIRITUAL TRUTH?** Jesus did just that in today's Scripture by sharing a parable (a story with spiritual meaning). In this parable, Jesus spoke about weed seeds that had been maliciously sown in with the good seeds of grain. **THE WEED SEEDS HAD BEEN SOWN BY AN ENEMY—OH, THAT THE WEEDS IN OUR LIVES WERE ALWAYS SOWN BY OUR ENEMIES.** **All too often it is our friends or family members that sow weed seeds into our lives by encouraging us to compromise the Word of God. People will commonly ignore the pure seed of God's Word and impose their own desires or modes of living...and then try to justify themselves. Not only are they guilty of sin, but they are sowing weeds in the minds of others who will, in turn, justify their own actions by what they've seen the other person doing.**

How are we to deal with the weeds that we find all around us? I think the answer is given by Jesus later on in this parable. Here is what He said in **MATTHEW 13:30:** _"Let both grow together until the harvest. At that time I will tell the harvesters: 'First collect the weeds and tie them in bundles to be burned; then gather the wheat and bring it into My barn.'"_ **IT IS POSSIBLE THAT WHEN WE TRY TO PULL OUT THE WEEDS THAT WE MAY ALSO DESTROY THE GOOD CROP.** We need to warn people who are living in sin that there is a day of reckoning coming, but then we need to leave the matter in God's hands.

Please understand that we are not to excuse sin and violation of God's Word, but sometimes we can get so violent in the way we deal with sin, that we may be guilty of our own attitudes and actions. **IN EPHESIANS 4:26 PAUL SAYS, "IN YOUR ANGER DO NOT SIN."**

LET ME SUM UP YESTERDAY'S AND TODAY'S TEACHINGS:

We are to sow good seed and become God's good seed by dying to ourselves. We are to tell the Lord about the weeds we see others sowing, warn those who sow them about what lies ahead for them, and then leave it to the Lord to bring judgment.

# DAY 51 (February 20)

# HARVEST REAPING!

Matthew 13:8-9

"Still other seed fell on good soil, where it produced a crop—a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown. He who has ears, let him hear."

One of my greatest delights is to stand in the middle of a large tomato patch with luscious ripe tomatoes all around me just begging to be eaten. I never let them down!

IN THE LAST TWO TEACHINGS WE EXPLORED THE SPIRITUAL APPLICATIONS OF SEED SOWING AND WEED PULLING.

**Today it is Harvest Reaping. Fantastic!** I love the concept of harvesting. It is such a joyous time of celebration. I must confess I usually feel guilty participating in the harvest without doing any of the work to bring it about. I sometimes imagine the cultivating, planting, hoeing, and watering that result in a bountiful harvest.

Over the years I have had the blessing of leading individuals to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ.

Frequently they are more than ready to pray the sinner's prayer and give their hearts to the Lord. Following their decision, they often tell me how others have witnessed to them and prayed for them through many years. It may have been a parent, grandparent, or friend, but there had been a seed planted.

I JUST HAD THE JOY OF HARVESTING.

If you have read these Daily-E-Votionals for any time at all, you know that I strike hard at the sin of pride. **SPIRITUAL PRIDE IS AN ESPECIALLY NOXIOUS WEED—ONE OF THOSE THAT WE TALKED ABOUT YESTERDAY.**

Some Christians seemingly delight in counting how many people they have led to the Lord. To me that is tragic!

The Lord has called all of us to work in His fields. We may plow, sow, water, or reap—but it is what the Lord calls us to do, not what we choose to do ourselves that counts.

It is my prayer that when I get to heaven, some joyous soul will greet me with a great smile and say, "You never knew it, but something you said (or did) made me realize I needed the Lord in my life. Years later I accepted Jesus. Thank you!"

GOD NEEDS WORKERS IN HIS FIELDS. WILL YOU ACCEPT HIS CALL AND MAKE YOURSELF AVAILABLE TO HIM?

# DAY 52 (February 21)

#  **THE LAW OF THE LORD IS PERFECT**

Psalm 19:7-11

"The law of the Lord is perfect, reviving the soul. The statutes of the Lord are trustworthy, making wise the simple. The precepts of the Lord are right, giving joy to the heart. The commands of the Lord are radiant, giving light to the eyes. The fear of the Lord is pure, enduring forever. The ordinances of the Lord are sure and altogether righteous. They are more precious than gold, than much pure gold; they are sweeter than honey, than honey from the comb. By them is your servant warned; in keeping them there is great reward."

What a fantastic passage of Scripture! If you have not memorized it before, I suggest that you take the time to write it down on a 3×5 card and start putting it to memory.

THE NEXT TIME YOU WONDER "WHERE DID MY JOY GO?"...HERE IS YOUR ANSWER.

A few days ago I watched a brief portion of a TV program where a needy family received a brand new home. Four of the five members in the family had life threatening medical conditions.

The eight year-old daughter suffered from Spinal Muscular Atrophy which left her unable to walk, confined to a wheelchair or carried everywhere she needed to go.

As this young girl was being interviewed, I was so impressed by her words that I hit the Record button and was able to record her comments **: "Even though I'm in pain, I'm always happy—because if you always look at the bright side, it really changes your life."**

Years ago I was praying with a young woman who was weeping her eyes out. I asked her if she had received Jesus as her personal Savior.

She responded that she had. I asked if there were any sins that she knew of that needed to be confessed. She couldn't think of any.

She had prayed at the altar for quite a lengthy period of time yet continued to be broken up and no closer to having peace in her heart. I finally became very blunt. (That was back before I was sweet and gentle like I am today. Cough! Cough!)

I pulled her head up so our eyes were only a few inches apart. Very firmly I asked **: "Why are you wasting our time and God's time unless you really say what you want Him to do for you?" With tears still streaming out of her eyes she replied, "I just want to be happy!"**

I exploded in laughter. She looked shocked by my reaction. I took her hands in mine and prayed, **"Lord, Your sweet daughter has lost her joy and can't seem to find it. Your Word tells us that You are our source of joy, so please pour some out right now!"**

HER JOY CAME FLOODING IN!

Sometimes we become so focused on ourselves and our own concerns that we lose sight of the source of our joy—the Lord and His Word!

I am humbled by those of you around the world who have been called upon to endure pain and persecution for the sake of Jesus Christ.

HOW CAN I BE JUSTIFIED IN COMPLAINING FOR MY OWN MINOR INCONVENIENCES WHEN SO MANY HAVE SUFFERED SO MUCH?

Father, I bow before You right now. I pray that the joy which we believers seek will not be for our own physical satisfaction, but for Your blessed spiritual joy. May the things of this world pass away as we draw nearer to You. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen

# DAY 53 (February 22)

# BELIEVE OR DOUBT!

Mark 9:21-24

"Jesus asked the boy's father, 'How long has he been like this?' 'From childhood,' he answered. 'It has often thrown him into fire or water to kill him. But if you can do anything, take pity on us and help us.' 'If you can?' said Jesus. 'Everything is possible for him who believes.' Immediately the boy's father exclaimed, 'I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!"

In John 17, Jesus begins His prayer by glorifying His Father in heaven and speaking of the things that have been fulfilled through Him, and acknowledging that the time of His departure and return to be once more with His Father was very near. He then begins to pray for His disciples.

**NOTE WHAT HE HAS TO SAY IN VERSE 6 TO THE FIRST PART OF VERSE 8:**

"I have revealed You to those whom You gave Me out of the world. They were Yours; You gave them to Me and they obeyed Your Word. Now they know that everything You have given Me comes from You. For I gave them the Words You gave Me and they accepted them."

As I meditate on these words I think of that group of twelve disciples who behaved so much as we do today. Two steps forward and one step back. It causes me to wonder where our Lord's confidence in them came from.

Many times when I have questions in my mind of this nature, I read back in Scripture looking for an answer.

I THINK I FOUND IT IN THIS CASE.

In the previous chapter, John 16:29-30, we read of the disciples' response to His teaching that He was going to be leaving them:

" **Then Jesus' disciples said, 'Now You are speaking clearly and without figures of speech. Now we can see that You know all things and that You do not even need to have anyone ask You questions.**

THIS MAKES US BELIEVE THAT YOU CAME FROM GOD.'"

As disciples of our Lord Jesus Christ, we need to stop trying to figure out the impossible things that the Lord wants us to accept by faith.

The Lord is the only One who knows our present situation, as well as what lies ahead for us. Our greatest problem is looking at the situations of life instead of looking at the One who is in control of our situations.

Our Scripture for today in Mark 9, records an incident in which a man brought his son to Jesus.

THE BOY WAS POSSESSED BY AN EVIL SPIRIT. FROM A HUMAN PERSPECTIVE, THERE WAS NO HOPE FOR THE BOY. BUT THIS FATHER KNEW THAT IF HE BROUGHT HIS SON TO THE MASTER, HE COULD BE HEALED.

Jesus told the father that everything was possible for him who believes.

Watch the words of the father as he responds to Jesus: **Mark. 9:24** **"...I DO BELIEVE; HELP ME TO OVERCOME MY UNBELIEF."**

We are told that Jesus rebuked the evil spirit and it left the boy. Jesus' healing took place right after the confession of the boy's father.

**WE CAN PARAPHRASE IT AS:** _"LORD, I BELIEVE A LITTLE BIT, BUT I NEED YOU TO GIVE ME THE POWER TO BELIEVE TOTALLY."_

What is the impossible thing that dominates your life? Let me tell you that you have three choices:

  1. You can try to solve the problem through your own abilities and continue with the conflict you are now experiencing.

  2. You can place it in the hands of the Lord, but still keep your focus on the impossible situation.

  3. You can place it in His hands and then keep your eyes on Him.

THE CHOICE IS YOURS. I TRUST AND PRAY THAT YOU MAKE THE THIRD CHOICE!

# DAY 54 (February 23)

#  "PRAYER BY THE NUMBERS!"

Psalm 86:1-7

"Hear, O Lord, and answer me, for I am poor and needy. Guard my life, for I am devoted to You. You are my God; save Your servant who trusts in You. Have mercy on me, O Lord, for I call to You all day long. Bring joy to Your servant, for to You, O Lord, I lift up my soul. You are forgiving and good, O Lord, abounding in love to all who call to You. Hear my prayer, O Lord; listen to my cry for mercy. In the day of my trouble I will call to You, for You will answer me."

YOU MAY HAVE A HANDLE ON PRAYER, BUT I CERTAINLY DO NOT.

I AM CONVINCED THAT WHAT LITTLE I SEEM TO KNOW ABOUT PRAYER IS BASED UPON WHAT I HAVE HEARD OTHERS PRAY IN MY PRESENCE, AND I FAIL TO SEE A DESCRIPTION OF THAT TYPE OF PRAYING IN SCRIPTURE.

We generally gather for our prayer meetings with a list of the answers we seek from the Lord. At times it progresses beyond that as some even have the audacity to begin to tell God what He is to do. HELP!! May the Lord forgive our impudence and self-centeredness!

In the pattern I see in Scripture, a different approach to prayer is given. It is far superior to the long, flowery prayers that we often pray or hear others pray.

You may recall your biology class in high school when you had to dissect a frog to study the inner parts. I thought it would be interesting to dissect this prayer of David in today's Scripture.

Please don't squirm on me! It will not smell of formaldehyde—but I hope it will be even more productive.

DAVID'S REQUESTS: I SEE AT LEAST SEVEN REQUESTS IN THESE SEVEN VERSES:

  * " _Hear and answer me."_

  * " _Guard my life."_

  * " _Save your servant."_

  * " _Have mercy on me."_

  * " _Bring joy to your servant."_

  * " _Hear my prayer."_

  * " _Listen to my cry for mercy."_

NOTICE HOW DAVID DIRECTS THESE REQUESTS AT HIMSELF.

I have heard some claim that such prayers are selfish, but that is not the case here. David is expressing his personal bankrupt condition and acknowledging that it is only the Lord who can help.

NOT ONLY IS IT UNSELFISH PRAYING, IT IS AN ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF PERSONAL INADEQUACY.

It is nothing like the prayer of the Pharisee in Luke 18:11 who boasts of his supposed virtues. David opened his heart and exposed his need. And that is only beginning. Take a look at his personal condition.

DAVID USES FIVE TERMS TO DESCRIBE HIS CONDITION:

  * " _I am Poor and needy."_

  * " _I am devoted to You."_

  * " _I trust You."_

  * " _I call on You all day long."_

  * " _To You I lift up my soul."_

Such openness and honesty brings the one who is praying into the presence of Almighty God—just like a small child who is totally reliant upon his Father to take him by the hand and care for him. YES!

THERE ARE THREE STATEMENTS THAT DAVID USES TO ACKNOWLEDGE THE QUALITIES WHICH GOD POSSESSES:

  * " _You are my God."_

  * " _You are forgiving and good."_

  * " _You are abounding in love to all who call to you."_

Much more could be said about the loving God we serve, but David has hit the core qualities which give him the confidence to call upon the name of the Lord.

Here is the way David concludes his prayer: "In the day of my trouble I will call to You, for You will answer me." What assurance and total confidence.

IN ALL OF OUR FAULTS AND SHORTCOMINGS, WE KNOW THAT WHEN WE CALL TO THE LORD, HE WILL HEAR US AND ANSWER IN HIS OWN WAY.

# DAY 55 (February 24)

# "JOYCE'S GIFT!"

Proverbs 31:10-12

"A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies. Her husband has full confidence in her and lacks nothing of value. She brings him good, not harm, all the days of her life."

I would like to tell you about my wife Joyce. I need to do this frequently since she is a woman with a quiet spirit and never draws attention to herself. **Over the fifty-six years we have been married, I have come to stand in awe of this lovely lady.**

Joyce is quiet and discerning. She has never tried to be "Mrs. Pastor," but instead she is my strongest supporter. By nature and gifting I am outgoing and always trying to lift and encourage others by sharing spiritual truth.

Joyce "feels" when people are going through a stressful time in their life. It is typical for her to return from a church service and comment that a certain person is having some type of struggle. **WHEN I ASK IF THEY MENTIONED IT TO HER, SHE RESPONDS,** _"No, but I can just sense it." Most of the time, it will come to light that she was correct._

A few days ago we received notice that a six month bond was maturing and if we did not notify them otherwise, it would be renewed for six more months. Out of the blue, Joyce said the Lord had impressed on her that we needed to have $2,000 moved into the checking account. She was so certain that I took action that very morning.

The next day I spoke to one of our members who had a medical emergency. She tearfully confided that she and her husband did not have the money to pay for the necessary surgery. Guess how much was needed. Right! $2,000!

THERE HAVE BEEN MANY TIMES IN THE PAST WHEN JOYCE MAILED A CARD OF ENCOURAGEMENT TO SOMEONE THE LORD LAID ON HER HEART. THOSE WHO RECEIVED THE CARDS COMMENTED THAT THE TIMING WAS PERFECT AND MET A NEED IN THEIR LIFE AT THAT SPECIFIC MOMENT.

Why do I write these things about my dear wife? Yes, it is to let her know that I appreciate her, but it is also to show that each of us can have a ministry that is tailor made for us.

**WE DO NOT NEED TO FILL A PULPIT IN ORDER TO MINISTER.**

We can minister with cards, visits, phone calls, kind deeds or any number of things.

The important thing for each of us to understand is that when we ask God to show us ways we can serve Him, He will do it. Many are hurting right now for someone who will show God's love to them—will you be that one?

BLESSINGS, DEAR HEARTS. DRAW NEAR TO GOD TODAY, TRUST HIM COMPLETELY, AND BE A BLESSING!

#  DAY 56 (February 25)

# LOVING THE UNLOVABLE!

Matthew 5:11-12 "Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you."

One Sunday following our evening service, a man in the congregation asked if he might make an appointment to talk with me. I was delighted to set a day and time. The day of the meeting we enjoyed a light lunch before going into my office.

Suddenly, out of the clear blue came these words: **"I HATE YOUR GUTS!"** Wow! You could have knocked me over with a feather. Prior to this meeting there did not appear to be any type of conflict between us, so his outburst was a blow. With my mind reeling, I prayed silently for God's wisdom and strength. With as much sincerity as possible, I replied, **"I AM SO GLAD THAT YOU FEEL FREE TO SHARE YOUR FEELINGS WITH ME."  
**  
**FROM THAT INCIDENT I WOULD LIKE TO SUGGEST A FEW WAYS TO RESPOND IN LOVE TO THE UNLOVABLE** :

  1. Rely on God's wisdom in dealing with the person.

  2. Realize that these unlovable people need love—perhaps more than others.

  3. Remember how unlovable our sins are in God's sight.

  4. Rejoice that we are counted worthy to encounter persecution.

  5. Respond with love rather than retaliate with resentment.

What happened on that day so long ago? We spent time together as this man poured out his heart. As he was leaving he looked me directly in the eye and said, "PASTOR, I LOVE YOU SO MUCH!" WOW! That was a dramatic turnaround from the comments he had made at the beginning of our meeting.

#  DAY 57 (February 26)

# "THINK ABOUT IT!"

Philippians 4:8

"Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things."

IT SEEMS THAT ALL TOO OFTEN WE HAVE REPLACED EXCELLENCE WITH CONVENIENCE.

We try to get by with the least amount of effort, time, or cost, and as a result, we fail to encounter excellence.

We can think of examples in our human family, but why spend time with illustrations from fallen mankind when we can use the life of Jesus Christ as the epitome of excellence and also one who is praiseworthy?

In the first part of this verse, Paul lists four qualities that lead to excellence and praiseworthiness:

  * TRUE

  * NOBLE

  * LOVELY

  * ADMIRABLE

Let's consider each attribute in the life and character of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

**TRUE:** After feeding thousands of people with a few scraps of food, they wanted Him to continue feeding them as Moses had done in the wilderness.

JESUS REPLIED IN JOHN 6:32-33:

" **I tell you the truth, it is not Moses who has given you the bread from heaven, but it is My Father who gives you the True Bread from heaven. For the Bread of God is He who comes down from heaven and gives life to the world."**

**JESUS IS TRUE!** His Word is true and His actions are true. All that can be known about truth is to be found in Him. Do you want to think about something of excellence and praiseworthiness?

  1. Think about the Truth that came into the world.

  2. Think about how Jesus was true in all He did and was.

**NOBLE:** **The Greek word for noble is "eugenes." It is from two words:**

  1. " **eu" means well, and**

  2. " **genos", which means family or race.**

It can therefore be defined as WELL BORN.

It is good to ponder on the birth of Jesus as He was born of a virgin (that is humanly impossible), and that He was born of the Holy Spirit (that was a supernatural provision by God for the perfect Lamb to be slain for the sins of the world).

Never has there been one born of such "noble" circumstances. Just think of the noble character of Jesus—no other noble on earth could match His qualifications.

IT WAS THE TRUE NOBILITY OF HEAVEN THAT HUNG ON THE CROSS, WAS BURIED IN THE TOMB, AND AROSE, TRIUMPHANT OVER DEATH, HELL AND THE GRAVE! WOW! THAT IS POWERFUL.

**LOVELY:** It is not generally the custom to think of a man as being lovely. That may be due to the fact that we men are ugly by nature. (I was going to say that was a joke, but it is so true I will let you decide whether it was funny or accurate).

**Jesus was and is lovely.** If we are to consider lovely as being pleasing and agreeable, then Jesus is certainly lovely. We can envision Him touching the sick and afflicted with such gentle care and concern, that He glows with beauty and grace. We need to think on those lovely qualities.

**ADMIRABLE:** In the King James Version **, "admirable"** is translated as **"good report."** I like that much better. It seems that the world clamors for bad reports and the media works overtime searching for bad news to glorify. The problem is that bad reports not only demean the person being reported on, but they also destroy something within, causing us to become cynical and negative.

We need to see in Jesus the living example of One who was always worthy of a good report. He taught good principles— **HE LIVED A PERFECT EXAMPLE AND HE DIED AN ATONING DEATH.** He will always be worthy of our good report as we think about Him and the life he lived.

  * How is your thought life?

  * Are you getting bitter or better?

  * THINK ABOUT THE BAD NEWS AND GET BITTER.

THINK ABOUT JESUS AND GET BETTER!

# DAY 58 (February 27)

# BE STILL!

Psalm 65:5-7

"You answer us with awesome deeds of righteousness, O God our Savior, the hope of all the ends of the earth and the farthest seas, who formed the mountains by your power, having armed yourself with strength, who stilled the roaring of the seas, the roaring of their waves, and the turmoil of the nations."

SO YOU WANT TO GET AWAY FROM THE RAT RACE...YOU LONG FOR PEACE AND TRANQUILITY WHICH WILL SETTLE YOUR STRESS AND FRUSTRATION...THE THOUGHT OF SIMPLER AND MORE SEDATE TIMES IS OFTEN APPEALING...

There is a program on Public Television called **ALONE IN THE WILDERNESS.** It chronicles the year in the life of a man who left civilization and built a cabin in the Alaskan wilderness. The utter isolation was interrupted occasionally by a small bush plane which brought him supplies and mail—but other than that, it was only Dick and the wild animals.

As idyllic as the scenes of the program might be, isolation is not the answer to the hustle and chaos of daily living. **MAN IS BY HIS VERY NATURE CREATED TO HAVE INTERACTION WITH OTHERS.** There may be recluses who cut themselves off from other people, but their actions reveal there are problems which have not been resolved.

In Mark, Chapter 4, we find the story of Jesus who was surrounded by a huge crowd of people. The crowd was so large that He got into a boat and sat in it as He taught the people who were on the shore. At evening He told His disciples to take the boats to the other side of the lake. (According to Mark 4:36, there were several boats).

While Jesus slept peacefully on a cushion, a furious squall came up and threatened the boats. Remember, many of these disciples were seasoned fishermen who had spent their lives on this lake in all kinds of weather. **NOW CAME A STORM THAT THREATENED TO SWAMP THEM.**

In their fear and alarm they called out to Jesus. It seemed impossible that He could sleep through such a storm. The men woke Jesus and asked Him if He didn't care if they were about to drown. It is then that we read the quiet words of power which He proclaimed in Mark 4:39: "He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, **'QUIET! (PEACE) BE STILL!'**

Then the wind died down and it was completely calm."

I want to remind you once more that these men were not simple recreational boaters. They had spent their lives in all kinds of weather conditions, and if they felt that the situation was desperate, it really was. They had almost come to the conclusion that all was hopeless and that they would never reach shore again. I think that when they called to Jesus, it was not so that He would quiet the wind and waves—that had never been done in their experience.

Perhaps they thought to wake Jesus to have Him prepare for the inevitable drowning. Jesus shocked them when He demonstrated that His power was great enough to control the forces of nature.

You may be facing situations that are threatening to "swamp your boat!" Now is the time to call on the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Remember...it is Jesus who has the power to calm and bring order out of chaos.

HERE IS AN OLD HYMN BY ELISHA A. HOFFMAN:

I MUST TELL JESUS

1. "I must tell Jesus all of my trials, I cannot bear these burdens alone; in my distress He kindly will help me, He always loves and cares for His own."

2. "I must tell Jesus all of my troubles, He is a kind compassionate friend; if I but ask Him, He will deliver, make of my troubles quickly an end."

3. "Tempted and tried, I need a great Savior. One who can help my burdens to bear; I must tell Jesus, I must tell Jesus, He all my cares and sorrows will share."

4. "O how the world of evil allures me! O how my heart is tempted to sin! I must tell Jesus and He will help me over the world the victory to win."

Chorus: "I must tell Jesus! I must tell Jesus! I cannot bear my burdens alone; I must tell Jesus! I must tell Jesus! Jesus can help me, Jesus alone."

# DAY 59 (February 28)

# "FOREVER?"

Luke 12:18-20

"Then he said, 'This is what I'll do. I will tear down my barns and build bigger ones, and there I will store all my grain and my goods. And I'll say to myself, 'You have plenty of good things laid up for many years. Take life easy; eat, drink and be merry.' But God said to him, 'You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you. Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?"

Once upon a time there was a young couple who were on fire for the Lord. They read their Bible, prayed, attended church and were an integral part of a couple's Bible study group.

Then they began visiting friends who had larger homes with many up-graded features. The more they visited these homes, the more discontented they became with their own home.

They began searching for a new home that would be just right for them. They spent days, even weeks, trying to find just the right house in their price range and with all of the features they desired.

After moving into the house of their dreams, the husband was full of emotion as he gazed around his new home and proudly proclaimed to his wife: "THIS JUST WHAT WE HAVE BEEN LOOKING FOR! WE WILL LIVE IN THIS HOUSE FOREVER!"

Over the following months, the house grew more important than just about anything in their life. Their prayer life stopped, Bible study fell by the wayside, and their church attendance dropped.

Conflicts erupted between them and their marriage suffered.

WHAT WAS THE CAUSE OF IT ALL? WAS IT THE HOUSE?

The answer is to be found in today's Scripture.

The man in Jesus' parable was focused on the things of this world as if they would last forever—they don't!

WHAT A TRAGEDY THAT SOME PEOPLE SPEND THEIR ENTIRE LIFE STRIVING FOR THINGS THAT ARE TEMPORARY AND HAVE LITTLE OR NO ETERNAL VALUE.

The chorus in an old hymn gives us the proper perspective on what is temporal and what is eternal:

"Turn your eyes upon Jesus; look full in His wonderful face, and the things of earth will grow strangely dim in the light of His glory and grace."

#  **DAY 60 (FEBRUARY 29) (LEAP YEAR)**

# **STRESSED OR BLESSED**

2 Corinthians 4:17-18

"For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal."

I once read of a laboratory experiment that was designed to test a person's ability to tolerate pain. The test subject's hand was fitted into a heat-producing device and could not be easily removed. Only the signal button in the free hand could be used to alert the tester to stop the heat (who knew how much heat could be applied without causing damage).

When the test subject pressed the button to reduce the heat, the tester ignored the signal and the heat continued to increase. The test continued until the subject cried out in pain or attempted to free the hand from the heat.

The test results were interesting—they showed that the tolerance to pain was almost always about twice what the test subjects initially believed they could tolerate.

When I heard about this experiment I wondered what would prompt scientists to perform such seemingly cruel tests. I am sure it had something to do with the development of some sort of pain blocker, but it also caused me to ponder. I guess I am still pondering:"HOW MUCH IS TOO MUCH?"

When Paul was writing these words in his second letter to the church at Corinth, he mentions **"LIGHT AND MOMENTARY TROUBLES."** Right! Go back a few verses and see what these light and momentary troubles were. In verses 8-9: "We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed." Isn't it amazing that he calls these just light and momentary troubles?

How in the world could Paul take such a view of the trials he had endured?

**IN 2 CORINTHIANS 11:24-27,** _HE MENTIONS HIS MANY BEATINGS, LASHES, STONING, SHIPWRECKS AND THE LIKE. WOW! THOSE ARE THE VERY THINGS HE CALLS LIGHT AND MOMENTARY?_

In comparison, what are our big complaints? We certainly may be encountering trials and troubles, but they are nothing by comparison. We have become such whimpering babies about living out our faith that it is no wonder the world does not see Christ in us.

Here is the bottom line—while we may encounter stress in many forms and in varying degrees, it is easy to get our minds focused on the stress. When our attention becomes preoccupied by stress, we have a hard time seeing the light at the end of the tunnel. That is why some people seem to go from one stressful situation to another.

It is essential that we look beyond the stress and see that a blessing is waiting for the believer. It is not wise to seek after the blessing that is ours as an inheritance from the Lord Himself when we become the children of God through the new birth.

Rather than seeking blessings, we are to look only to Jesus and constantly seek to please Him in all we do. We may be stressed, but at the same time we must remember that we are also blessed.

# DAY 61 (March 1)

# "NEW!"

2 Corinthians 5:16-18

"From now on we regard no one from a worldly point of view. Though we once regarded Christ in this way, we do so no longer. Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come! All this is from God, who reconciled us to Himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation."

DO YOU EVER FEEL LIKE YOU WOULD LIKE TO HAVE A FRESH START?

Perhaps you have made some foolish choices and find yourself in a real quandary. Regardless of your own actions or those of others, you feel that you would just like to begin again.

Years ago I was working for the Idaho Law Enforcement Planning Commission. We had a custodian who was on work release from the Idaho State Penitentiary. He was in my office one day and asked if I may be able to help him.

As we talked he told me a story of failure and pain that stretched far back across the years of his life. Virgil was then in his sixties and told me that he had been in and out of prison for all of his adult life.

He asked if I might speak on his behalf to the Parole Board. I had witnessed to him about the Lord and there was some indication that he had accepted the invitation for salvation. Still I asked him why he thought he would be able to stay out of prison this time since he had failed so many times before.

Virgil stunned me with this statement: _"I have reached the age that if I ever come back, I will die in prison and I don't want to die inside the prison walls."_

I agreed to speak in his behalf and he was paroled and continued working for our agency. It was only a few months later that Virgil failed to report for work. When I checked on him I was told that he had died suddenly. His wish to not die in prison had come to pass. My wish is that his heart was truly right with God.

How can we insure a new life in Christ and to have our name written in the Lamb's book of life? In John 3:7, Jesus told Nicodemus that it was necessary to be born again. That is accomplished by confessing that we are sinners and that only Jesus Christ can cleanse us and make us fit for heaven. It is not in being as good as possible, but rather humbly bowing before Him and inviting Him into our life.

I think it is safe to say that many **"BORN AGAIN CHRISTIANS"** live their lives far from God's standard.

Now is an excellent time to make a new commitment to live holy unto the Lord. World events strongly point to His soon return.

I PRAY THAT WE MAY LIVE FOR HIM WITH ALL THAT IS IN US FROM THIS DAY FORWARD.

# DAY 62 (March 2)

# WHICH WAY?

Proverbs 3:5-7

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight. Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and shun evil."

**HAVE YOU EVER BEEN LOST?** I have. Not just once, but several times. I have been lost on a hunting trip, making the wrong turn on a highway...and a few other times I will not go into detail to explain.

Now it is not as if I lack a sense of direction. I was able to find the headstones of my grandparents that I had not visited since I was eight years old. I could find our old family home when even my dad and brother could not locate it after a freeway had dissected the area and drastically changed it.

I recall having a part-time job at a dairy during my high school years that sometimes involved delivering milk door-to-door on an unfamiliar route. The way I could do it was by a direction code. Turn left was coded TL. Turn right was coded TR. If you are going to cross intersection(s) without turning you would code it with the number of streets and an X. I still use that code from time to time.

Do you know what strikes me at this moment? Without the route book I would have been in an impossible situation. It told me how to get to a particular customer and what they had ordered. The same concept is true concerning our spiritual life. **GOD'S WORD IS OUR "GUIDE BOOK" TO GIVE US DIRECTION AND WHAT TO DO WHEN WE GET THERE. BRILLIANT!**

Most of our problems arise when we fail to read the directions, when we do our own thing, or when we get God's order wrong. STOP! Be honest and admit how many times you have failed to consult God and His Word before you acted?

When you found yourself lost and undone did you blame God for the mess you found yourself in? (It's getting uncomfortable isn't it? Just remember that this is directed at me just as much – and possibly more – than you.)

So what are we expected to do? Just read and re-read today's Scripture.

  * There are several key steps that instruct us: We are to

  * " **TRUST God with all of our heart."**

  * We are not to "lean on our own UNDERSTANDING."

  * " **In all of our ways we are to "ACKNOWLEDGE Him!"**

  * I love the promise God gives when we do this: HE WILL MAKE OUR PATHS STRAIGHT!

SOLOMON GIVES US THREE FINAL WORDS OF ADMONITION: "DO NOT BE WISE IN YOUR OWN EYES; FEAR THE LORD AND SHUN EVIL."

"WHICH WAY?" The answer seems very clear: GOD'S WAY!!

# DAY 63 (March 3)

# BE A BLESSING!

Psalm 103:1-2 (Amplified Bible)

"Bless—affectionately, gratefully praise—the Lord, O my soul, and all that is [deepest] within me, bless His holy name! Bless—affectionately praise—the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all [one of] His benefits."

The concept of blessing has come to hold more meaning to me than ever before. **WE EITHER BLESS OR CURSE WITH OUR MOUTHS.** At times I have talked about how actions speak louder than words.

That does not mean we are to be silent, but rather we are to speak blessing into situations and then act in the manner that is consistent with our words.

When performing wedding ceremonies, I present this challenge to the couple: _"Will you listen to (her/his) inmost thoughts and be considerate and tender in your care of (her/him)?"_

That is a very good challenge for every couple. Listen to other people's inmost thoughts! Be considerate! (That means doing to others as you would have them do unto you—which is the Golden Rule!). Be tender! Care for each other! Think of the difference it would make if we all put that concept into practice.

Many of us are familiar with the Sermon on the Mount. In Matthew 5, Jesus introduces a Godly lifestyle.

He does this by presenting the Beatitudes. Each of the Beatitudes begins with the phrase **"BLESSED ARE YOU..."** which sounds good, but do we really have an understanding of its meaning?

I am fascinated by the meaning of words. Each day I delight in solving the crossword puzzles in the newspaper, which I supplement with books of former crossword puzzles from the New York Times. Believe me, they are mind zingers.

THE NUANCES OF WORDS CAN DETERMINE SEVERAL DIFFERENT MEANINGS.

Just as the word bless in the above passage means to affectionately praise, the term blessed in the Beatitudes has more depth of meaning.

IN THE AMPLIFIED BIBLE, IT IS RENDERED THIS WAY: "BLESSED—HAPPY, TO BE ENVIED, AND SPIRITUALLY PROSPEROUS [THAT IS, WITH LIFE-JOY AND SATISFACTION IN GOD'S FAVOR AND SALVATION, REGARDLESS OF THEIR OUTWARD CONDITIONS]."

Throughout Psalm 103 we read of conditions that we tend to complain about instead of blessing the Lord for. You will notice that it is far beyond our normal understanding of the term blessed or blessing.

It is not just saying, "Have a nice day, if you can work it into your busy schedule." On the contrary, it means, "Keep your eyes on the Lord and not on the circumstances.

A humorous story is told of two boys who held totally opposite views of life. One was a complainer who was never satisfied—the other was a kid who loved life, loved people, and was always looking for something positive in every situation.

As the story goes, a team of sociologists wanted to put the two to the ultimate test. The first boy was placed in a room filled with wonderful toys, games, and pleasant things. He did nothing but gripe and complain about first one thing and then another.

He demonstrated his outlook on life, and it was not a blessing to him or those around him.

The second boy was placed in a dismal room filled with nothing but piles of horse manure.

After a time the researchers returned and found him happy and joyous, grinning from ear to ear.

When they asked him why he was so happy he replied **;**

" **WITH ALL OF THIS HORSE MANURE, THERE JUST HAS TO BE A PONY SOMEWHERE!"**

He was looking beyond what he could see and visualized what was possible. That, dear friend, is the concept of blessing that Jesus was teaching.

WHERE DO YOU FIT INTO THE CONCEPT OF BLESSING?

WHEN SOMEONE ASKS, "HOW ARE YOU DOING?" AND YOU RESPOND, "PRETTY GOOD UNDER THE CIRCUMSTANCES," ASK YOURSELF: WHAT AM I DOING UNDER THE CIRCUMSTANCES?

GET OUT AND ABOVE THEM.

Begin to be a blessing by blessing people in a meaningful manner.

I WILL CONTINUE TO SIGN MY LETTERS AND CORRESPONDENCE WITH A BLESSING. MY DEEPEST DESIRE IS THAT YOU NOW WILL KNOW WHAT I MEAN WHEN I BLESS YOU!

# DAY 64 (March 4)

# SECURE POSSESSIONS!

Matthew 6:19-21

"Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."

THE ENTIRE WORLD SEEMS TO BE IN A STATE OF FINANCIAL COLLAPSE.

Retirement accounts that appeared to be adequate for the golden years melt like a snowman in 80 degree weather!

HOWEVER, THOSE OF US WHO POSSESS THE LEAST SEEM TO BE THE LEAST CONCERNED. WHY IS THAT? ACCORDING TO TODAY'S SCRIPTURE, IT HAS TO DO WITH WHERE OUR HEART IS.

Over the years I have heard comments from people who fail to honor God with their giving.

THEY SAY THAT THEY WANT TO WAIT UNTIL THE HOUSE SELLS, THEY GET A RAISE, THEY RECEIVE THEIR INHERITANCE, THEY RECEIVE THEIR INCOME TAX REFUND, AND ON IT GOES.

They reason that then they will have more to give to the work of the Lord.

Do you recall the incident when Jesus was in the temple courts?

He saw rich people putting their gifts into the temple treasury. He also saw a poor widow put in a very small amount. Jesus commented that the woman had put in more than all of the others.

They gave out of their surplus, but she gave out of what little she had to live on.

READ ABOUT IT IN LUKE 21:1-4.

IT IS A TRAGEDY THAT MANY INDIVIDUALS—EVEN SOME CHURCHES—PLACE MORE CONFIDENCE IN THE TREASURES OF THIS WORLD THAT WILL SOON PASS AWAY, THAN IN HEAVENLY TREASURES THAT WILL LAST FOREVER AND FOREVER.

IT IS TIME FOR A HEART EXAMINATION:

  1. What treasures mean the most to you?

  2. Where are your treasures being stored?

  3. One second into eternity, what treasures will have the most value?

# DAY 65 (March 5)

# PRAYER POWER!

1 Thessalonians 5:16-24

"Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. Do not put out the Spirit's fire; do not treat prophecies with contempt. Test everything. Hold on to the good. Avoid every kind of evil. May God Himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. The One who calls you is faithful and He will do it."

HOW MANY TIMES HAS THIS HAPPENED TO YOU?

Someone you know walks up and thanks you for praying for them. It is only then that you remember you had promised to pray for them for a particular situation they were going through...

BUT YOU DIDN'T.

In my conversations with different people across the years, I have heard this sad story repeated many times. It is a vivid reminder that we need to devote ourselves to be faithful in our prayers.

Paul gave these final instructions in his first letter to the church at Thessalonica. I find it of deep interest that he says to

" **PRAY CONTINUALLY"** but tucks it neatly between being

" **JOYFUL ALWAYS"** and

" **GIVING THANKS IN EVERY CIRCUMSTANCE."**

Prayer is not just a shopping list of all of the things that we demand the Lord do for us. **Ooops!**

DID I SAY DEMAND? WELL THAT IS WHAT SOME WOULD LEAD US TO BELIEVE.

I THINK IT IS SHALLOW TO GO TO THE LORD ONLY WHEN WE HAVE EMERGENCIES.

The prayer that Jesus taught His disciples (The Lord's Prayer) is literally filled with praise and confession. It is a beautiful pattern for us to use. Try reading Matthew 5:9-15. (No, it is not the "Now I lay me down to sleep" prayer).

The Old Testament book of Daniel gives us a wonderful example of a man who prayed daily. I cannot properly cover all of the fantastic things that occurred in the life of this remarkable servant of God, but Daniel was used mightily by God and was routinely elevated to positions of authority under various pagan rulers.

In chapter eleven Darius, a new ruler, assigns three administrators over the governors. One was Daniel, an old man by this time but still being used by God. Daniel distinguished himself in such a significant way that the other officials were jealous and wanted to get him out of the way.

Without intending to do so, the conspirators testified to Daniel's faithfulness. They said the only way they could find a fault with his conduct was if it had something to do with the law of his God.

Knowing that Daniel faithfully prayed three times a day to His God, they slipped a decree past Darius declaring anyone who prayed to any god or man other than Darius for the next thirty days would be thrown into the lion's den.

Sure enough, Daniel continued praying just as always—even with his windows open toward Jerusalem. His devotion to his God resulted in a one night stand in the lion's den. He and the big kitty cats had a nice sleep. God protected him and delivered him.

King Darius was a little ticked off by the trick the others had played on him.

After Daniel was pulled up, unharmed, the accusers of Daniel and their families were sent in as replacements. It says that they never even made it to the floor before they were killed.

PRAYER—DAILY PRAYER—WORKS MIGHTY MIRACLES!

ONE WAY WE CAN PRAY IS BY PRAISING GOD FOR EVERYTHING IN OUR LIFE.

If you find an inspirational passage of Scripture in your daily Bible reading, pray that Scripture back to the Lord.

There is no law that says you must keep your eyes closed when you pray. Read your study notes to the Lord.

These can include your;

  * Plans,

  * Hurts,

  * Anxieties,

  * Joys,

  * Sorrows,

  * Ups and Downs.

  * BE REAL!

THE LORD IS YOUR CLOSEST FRIEND AND HE LOVES FOR YOU TO SPEND TIME TALKING INTIMATELY WITH HIM.

When was the last time you really prayed?

I urge you to make prayer a vital part of each and every day. If you are busy to the nth degree, you might try praying in the shower (Clean in body and spirit!).

KEEP YOUR PRAYER LINE OPEN TO THE LORD AND SPEND TIME WITH HIM DAILY!

# DAY 66 (March 6)

# PRECIOUS PROMISES!

2 Peter 1:2-4

"Grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord, as His divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by glory and virtue, by which have been given to us exceedingly great and precious promises, that through these you may be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust."

**HAVE YOU EVER MADE A PROMISE AND LATER REGRETTED THAT YOU HAD MADE IT?** I know that I have found myself in awkward situations and wished I could take back a promise or two.

My dad was a model of integrity and demonstrated the worth of his word. There was the time he made a mistake in a pledge to purchase stained glass windows for the church. Dad made an honest mistake since he did not hear well—instead of pledging $500, he mistakenly pledged $5,000.

Dad prayed about the situation and told the Lord about his mistake (the Lord already knew) and asked Him to assist him to make the necessary money to meet the pledge. **TO MAKE DAD'S SITUATION EVEN MORE DIFFICULT, HE WAS RETIRED AND HAD NOT WORKED FOR SEVERAL YEARS.**

But God graciously answered Dad's prayers—he was asked to do extra work sufficient to meet his pledge. It became a special blessing that went far beyond the money he earned. It was an intimate provision from the Lord he loved so much. God has given us many promises in His Word. The problem is that we fail to search the Scriptures to discover what He has for us. Take time to explore the first chapter of Second Peter to discover a few of those precious promises.

# DAY 67 (March 7)

# PURSUE VIRTUE!

2 Peter 1:5-7

"But also for this very reason, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge, to knowledge self-control, to self-control perseverance, to perseverance godliness, to godliness brotherly kindness, and to brotherly kindness love."

Back in my college days I worked as a police officer and later a juvenile probation officer. My first experience as a police officer was in the small Idaho town of Caldwell where I was hired by the police chief, Keith Judd.

IT WAS WHILE I WAS WORKING AS COUNTY JUVENILE PROBATION OFFICER THAT A TRAGIC EVENT OCCURRED.

A family living on the outskirts of Caldwell reported that someone was shooting at their house. Police from the area rushed to the scene in an attempt to locate where the shots were coming from. They surrounded the house and waited for more shots to be fired.

Unfortunately, the shots were not coming from outside, but from inside. The family's teenage son was the shooter. From his upstairs bedroom window he fired at the back of Keith Judd.

KEITH WAS PARALYZED AND DIED A FEW YEARS LATER.

In yesterday's Scripture we read that God has allowed us to be partakers of the divine nature, thus escaping the corruption that is prevalent in the world.

TODAY WE READ THAT WE ARE TO ADD VIRTUE TO OUR DILIGENT PURSUIT OF FAITH.

THE GREEK WORD FOR VIRTUE IS ARETÊ. IT IS INTERPRETED:

  * MORAL EXCELLENCE

  * MODESTY OR PURITY

Those qualities do not occur naturally. Remember that we are endued with a sinful nature inherited from Adam. We are not born pure and lose ground. We are born as sinners and can only be transformed by God's grace and mercy.

Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ is our first objective, and this is to be followed by virtue.

ARE YOU PURSUING MORAL EXCELLENCE, MODESTY OR PURITY? IF NOT, I URGE YOU TO DO SO IMMEDIATELY!

# DAY 68 (March 8)

# DISCIPLINE!

Proverbs 1:1-4

"The proverbs of Solomon the son of David, king of Israel: To know wisdom and instruction, To perceive the words of understanding, To receive the instruction of wisdom, justice, judgment, and equity; To give prudence to the simple, To the young man knowledge and discretion."

IMAGINE THAT YOU ARE SITTING IN A MAGNIFICENT CONCERT HALL

Shortly, a performer enters the stage and sits down at a grand piano. After a few minutes the piano seems to come alive with music that fills the entire hall.

LOUD APPLAUSE GREETS THE END OF THE CONCERT

You happen to be the last one to leave the hall and hesitantly approach the piano. As you sit at the keyboard, you begin to play. **Aack!** The emanating sound is utterly discordant.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE?

PICTURE A SCENE FROM THE WINTER OLYMPICS

An ice skater effortlessly performs leaps and spins that bring the spectators to their feet with a mighty roar. Later, you seek out an ice arena, rent a pair of skates, and venture onto the ice **. Your upright position is soon changed into an embarrassing flop.**

YOU KNOW THE REASON

Failure to become accomplished in a particular field is the lack of discipline to practice. A person must begin with the simple, rudimentary steps before progressing to the next level. After hours, days, weeks, and years of disciplined devotion to the undertaking, competence is reached.

WHAT IS TRUE FOR A MUSICIAN OR ATHLETE IS ALSO TRUE IN OUR SPIRITUAL LIFE

We are not born with spiritual knowledge and maturity. It is essential to spend considerable time in Bible study, prayer, and practical ministry in order to reach a level of spiritual maturity.

Professional musicians and athletes understand that even though they perform on a regular basis, they need to regularly **GO BACK TO THE BASICS** in order to do their best at all times.

HOW ABOUT YOU?

ARE YOU DISCIPLINED ENOUGH TO BE THE BEST DISCIPLE THAT THE LORD WANTS YOU TO BE?

# **DAY 69 (March 9)**

# "FAITH'S GATE!"

Hebrews 11:1-3

"Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. This is what the ancients were commended for. By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God's command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible."

Joyce and I once lived in a gated community that required a remote control device to open the gate. It was designed to prevent unauthorized persons from entering. **Only with the control that had been provided to us were we authorized to open the gate.**

FAITH MAY BE DEFINED AS THE GATE THAT LEADS FROM OUR POVERTY TO GOD'S POWER.

In making that statement, I do not wish to give rise to a **"name it and claim it"** theology. All too frequently people use God's promises for their own selfish desires.

As we read Hebrews 11, it is almost like walking through God's hall of fame of the faithful men and women who trusted Him with their all.

These heroes of the faith saw something that was more important than life. They might have been shy and quivering cowards at one time in their lives, but they saw something that gave them courage and backbone worthy of merit.

THESE HEROES OF THE FAITH STOOD TALL AND TRUSTED GOD RATHER THAN CIRCUMSTANCES.

It was the faith of these heroes that brought joy to God's heart. He is delighted by men and women who choose to place their faith in Him rather than compromising with the world.

Down through the ages of history—even to our present day—there are men and women who have placed their reliance on things which are seen only through faith in God. In many cases, believers have endured pain, torture, and death knowing that eternal bliss waited just beyond their final breath.

Songwriter Oscar Eliason wrote _, "Got any rivers you think are un-crossable? Got any mountains you can't tunnel through?" He answered his own questions as he continues: "God specializes in things thought impossible, and He can do what no other power can do."_

Every Christian faces obstacles along life's pathway, and walking in God's will doesn't guarantee that our way will always be easy. In fact, we are told that there will be tribulations in this life.

BUT NO MATTER HOW DIFFICULT THE CIRCUMSTANCES, WE CAN TRUST GOD TO OPEN THE GATES IN HIS TIME AND FOR HIS PURPOSES. WHEN HE DOES, WE CAN GO FORWARD BY FAITH.

#  DAY 70 (March 10) [  
PRAYER VS. PRESUMPTION!](http://daily-e-votional.com/prayer-vs-presumption/)

1 Chronicles 14:15

"As soon as you hear the sound of marching in the tops of the balsam trees, move out to battle, because that will mean God has gone out in front of you to strike the Philistine army."

TRADITION! TRADITION!

I recall hearing those words sung by Tevya in the movie Fiddler on the Roof.

Before we become too critical, it is well to consider how often we rely on tradition rather than prayerful guidance to determine our course of action. Think of the number of times we have said or heard:

" **WE HAVE ALWAYS DONE IT THAT WAY BEFORE!"**

Just prior to today's Scripture verse, David had inquired of the Lord about going to battle against the Philistines. In response to that question the Lord told David to go. The Philistines were defeated because the Lord had gone before them.

In today's passage, the answer was not the same as before. Now the Lord instructed David to not proceed directly against this new armed threat, but to circle around behind and wait for the sound of marching in the balsam trees.

David obeyed and God brought about a great victory.

God does not use the same methods each time to accomplish His will **. HE WANTS US TO INQUIRE OF HIM EACH AND EVERY TIME THERE IS A DECISION TO BE MADE.**

WHY?

It is to demonstrate our total reliance on Him so that He will receive the honor.

IN THESE PERILOUS TIMES WE NEED TO FAITHFULLY INQUIRE OF THE LORD.

**2 CHRONICLES 7:14 SHOULD ALWAYS BE IN OUR HEART:** _"If My people, who are called by My name, will humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land."_

Do not presume to know how God works or what His plans are for your life.

INSTEAD, GO TO HIM IN PRAYER AND STAY THERE UNTIL YOU HEAR FROM HEAVEN. THEN OBEY!

# DAY 71 (March 11)

# SHADOWS!

Psalm 23:4: "Fear not [there is nothing to fear], for I am with you; do not look around you in terror and be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen and harden you to difficulties, yes, I will help you; yes, I will hold you up and retain you with My [victorious] right hand of rightness and justice." (The Amplified Bible)

THERE IS A LOT OF FEAR GOING AROUND THESE DAYS. FEAR OF THE FAILING ECONOMY, FEAR OF MEDICAL DIFFICULTIES, FEAR OF WHAT PEOPLE WILL THINK, FEAR OF FAILING, FEAR OF TOMORROW, FEAR OF THE UNKNOWN—YOU NAME IT!

We can and do develop a fearful attitude.

I especially like the way The Amplified Bible uses numerous nuances of the original Hebrew text in order to clarify the meaning. We should read that first phrase over and over again:

" **FEAR NOT [THERE IS NOTHING TO FEAR], FOR I AM WITH YOU."**

We may want to argue with others that our situation is different and that we really have something to fear, but God says we don't. _The reason that we need not fear is that He is with us._

If we go back into the Old Testament and read of the way God delivers His people, we find that He is able to protect and lead. It was only when people rejected His leadership and control of their lives that they faced defeat.

Just think of the way God led His people out of Egypt. He provided a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night. God's presence in the clouds gave both the direction to travel and also stood between His people and the enemy.

TRUST HIM TO LEAD AND PROTECT YOU AND YOU WILL NEVER NEED TO FEAR!

# DAY 72 (March 12)

# PRAYER WORRIERS!

James 1:5-8

"If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That man should not think he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all he does."

Recently I received an e-mail requesting prayer for a **"PRAYER WORRIER."** I am sure the writer meant **WARRIOR** , but that seemingly insignificant typo **CHANGED BOTH THE WORD AND THE MEANING.**

I BEGAN TO CONSIDER THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE TWO AND WENT TO THE DICTIONARY.

**THIS IS THE DEFINITION FOR WARRIOR:** **One who is engaged in or experienced in battle. One who is engaged aggressively or energetically in an activity, cause, or conflict. That describes someone you would like on your side, right?**

**HERE IS THE DEFINITION FOR WORRIER:** **One who thinks about unfortunate things that might happen. One who is of two minds (hesitating, dubious, irresolute), unstable and uncertain about virtually everything. Whoops! That is certainly not the person I would feel confident to have in my corner as a prayer partner.**

THE THING I FIND ABOUT A TRUE PRAYER WARRIOR IS THAT THE CIRCUMSTANCES HAVE NOTHING TO DO WITH HOW HE REACTS.

**Job had lost all of his earthly possessions, his ten children, his health and his reputation. He was on an ash heap surrounded by friends who accused him of some secret sin that caused all of these things**.

HOW DOES JOB REACT?

Job 19:25-27: "I know that my Redeemer lives, and that in the end He will stand upon the earth. And after my skin has been destroyed, yet in my flesh I will see God; I myself will see Him with my own eyes—I, and not another.

HOW MY HEART YEARNS WITHIN ME!" THOSE ARE THE WORDS OF A PRAYER WARRIOR... NOT A PRAYER WORRIER. WHICH ONE ARE YOU?

#  DAY 73 (March 13)

# BUT THEN WHAT?

Hebrews 9:27-28

"Just as man is destined to die once, and after that to face judgment, so Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many people; and he will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for him."

A supply outpost in pioneer days usually contained a small general store offering a limited selection of staple items like flour, salt, sugar, beans, cloth, and the like. In the first half of the 1900s, grocery stores became separate from clothing stores and the variety of available items grew.

A typical supermarket in the '70s stocked about 9,000 items.

Today that figure has exploded to over 50,000 items! Wow!

THAT'S WHAT I WOULD CALL GROWTH!

WHAT IS THE REASON FOR THIS PHENOMENAL GROWTH?

DEMAND!

But it may better be defined as desire. In its natural fallen state, the human heart is never satisfied. There is always the desire for more and more—bigger and better!

But then what? What will it take to reach the place of inner contentment?

HOW MUCH "STUFF" IS ENOUGH?

Let me give you my answer—there will never be enough to satisfy!

People are working day and night to produce items you didn't even know existed and that you now cannot live without. Scary isn't it.

Imagine that you just received a generous gift—but then what? You just discovered that a malignant growth had disappeared—but then what? You just retired to a life of ease—but then what?

THE POINT I WANT TO MAKE IS THAT EVERYTHING—EVERYTHING—IS GOING TO PASS AWAY AND TURN TO DUST. EACH OF US IS DESTINED TO DIE AND AFTER THAT THE JUDGMENT.

Only those who have repented of their sins and received Jesus Christ as their personal Savior will escape the terrible judgment of the unsaved.

# DAY 74 (March 14)

# ARE YOU ANGRY?

Genesis 4:6-7

"Then the Lord said to Cain, 'Why are you angry? Why is your face downcast? If you do what is right, will you not be accepted? But if you do not do what is right, sin is crouching at your door, it desires to have you, but you must master it."

**CONTRARY TO POPULAR PRINCIPLE AND PRACTICE, ANGER IS NOT A RIGHT AND NOT AN ACCEPTABLE WAY TO DEAL WITH THE STRESSES OF LIFE.**

I have heard the comment that it is good to explode in anger and not let it eat at you from the inside. Just remember, it was shortly after the Godly counsel given in today's Scripture that Cain in anger slew his brother Abel, and thus was guilty of the first murder in the history of mankind.

God speaks His wisdom concerning anger and resentment in His counsel to Cain.

" **IF YOU DO WHAT IS RIGHT, WILL YOU NOT BE ACCEPTED?"**

The implied answer is **"YES."** That is exactly what it takes — doing what is right in God's eyes.

I can almost hear your screams of protest about all of the pressures and circumstances in your life that cause you to explode in anger.

THAT IS MERE JUSTIFICATION!

God is not interested in your justification of the circumstances that cause explosive outbursts. He simply instructs us to do right.

As I think about the things in my own life that generate anger, I see it is most often times when people mistreat me or the ones I care about. I think that all of us are fragile creatures.

WE MINISTERS ARE NO EXCEPTION!

People say cruel things that are not true or perhaps taken out of context. We are hurt and must deal with the anger and resentment. A pastor's anger is no more justified than anyone else's anger. What was it that God said to Cain? "Do what is right!" That clear instruction applies to each and every one of us.

James reiterates that very clear word of instruction in James 1:19-22: "My dear brothers, take note of this: **EVERYONE SHOULD BE QUICK TO LISTEN, SLOW TO SPEAK AND SLOW TO BECOME ANGRY, FOR MAN'S ANGER DOES NOT BRING ABOUT THE RIGHTEOUS LIFE THAT GOD** **DESIRES.**

Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the Word planted in you, which can save you.

Do not merely listen to the Word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says."

**THAT HITS HOME!** We are to get the Word of God into our life and the filth of the world out of our life. When James uses the phrase "which can save you," he is not talking of personal salvation, but rather the saving of us from our anger.

James is speaking to the "brothers" who know the Lord, yet allow the garbage of the world to cause a worldly reaction. This should not be! He challenges us to rely more on the Word of God to produce less moral filth and worldly evil. That equals a life that is under the control of our Savior and Lord, Jesus Christ.

# DAY 75 (March 15)

# CHOOSE LIFE!

Deuteronomy 30:19-20a

"This day I call heaven and earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live and that you may love the Lord your God, listen to His voice, and hold fast to Him."

HERE IS A NEWS FLASH: YOU CANNOT MAKE DECISIONS FOR PEOPLE!

_Frequently we parents wish we could somehow make the right decisions for our kids that would keep them free from harm and danger_ — **BUT WE CAN'T!**

Back when I was a Juvenile Probation Officer, it seemed I held the lives and futures of those young delinquents in my hands. It was an awesome responsibility.

**REPEATEDLY, I WOULD EXPLAIN THE CONSEQUENCES OF THEIR ACTIONS ONLY TO DISCOVER THAT WITHIN A SHORT TIME THEY HAD BEEN ARRESTED YET AGAIN**.

I have to admit that it would have been easy to give up on these kids, but often I was the only one who was on their side (even if they didn't know it).

I tried to point out the consequences of continuing to walk down the wrong path. It was similar to what Moses held out for the people in today's Scripture.

THAT SAME CHALLENGE REMAINS TRUE FOR US TODAY.

THE LORD HAS SET BEFORE US LIFE OR DEATH—BLESSINGS OR CURSES. NOT ONLY ARE WE TO CHOOSE LIFE, BUT WE ARE TO KEEP ON CHOOSING IT.

Joshua was Moses' successor in leading the Israelites to possess the land God had promised.

**IN JOSHUA 24:14-15 HE GIVES US THIS FANTASTIC PASSAGE:** _"Now fear the Lord and serve Him with all faithfulness. Throw away the gods your forefathers worshiped beyond the River and in Egypt, and serve the Lord. But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your forefathers served beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord."_

I'M WITH YOU, JOSHUA!

DAY 76 (March 16)

# I LOVE A MYSTERY!

Colossians 1:25-27

"I have become its servant by the commission God gave me to present to you the word of God in its fullness—the mystery that has been kept hidden for ages and generations, but is now disclosed to the saints. To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory."

I AM SO GLAD I GREW UP IN THE DAYS OF RADIO. THE RADIO DRAMAS WERE THE PROGRAMS THAT WE ESPECIALLY LOOKED FORWARD TO.

They allowed the listener to use his/her own imagination to envision the unfolding story.

A favorite program was a mystery drama titled **I LOVE A MYSTERY**. It was thrilling to listen to the characters read their lines while the sound effects evoked an impression of reality.

IN TODAY'S SCRIPTURE, PAUL REVEALS A SPIRITUAL MYSTERY FOR US.

It is a mystery that was hidden from those who lived before the time of Christ. They may have had some suggestion of this mystery, but only in a veiled manner.

IT WAS A MYSTERY THAT WOULD HAVE TO WAIT FOR ITS FULFILLMENT IN JESUS.

It is obvious that people have been searching for the mystery of how God chooses to work. The answer Paul gives is that it is from the inside out. Wow!

There it is once again—not what we do to prove we are righteous—but by the indwelling presence of God working in and through us.

ARE YOU TRYING TO DO WHAT ONLY GOD ALONE CAN DO?

Read today's Scripture once again and realize that the answer to the mystery of mysteries is that it is **CHRIST WITHIN US AND THAT IS OUR ETERNAL ASSURANCE. PRAISE THE LORD!**

# DAY 77 (March 17)

# DIVINE INSPIRATION!

2 Timothy 3:16-17

"All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work."

It thrills my heart to know that we serve a God who is big and powerful enough to speak for Himself. He does this through the divinely inspired Bible. " **IT IS THE POWER OF GOD UNTO SALVATION TO ALL WHO WILL BELIEVE" - ROMANS 1:16.**

Unfortunately, there are far too many church groups who have the audacity to stand in opposition to God's Holy Word and change it to fit their own particular brand of sin _. God's holiness is not open for debate. Sin is sin and His Word is true!_

It always bugs me when I hear so-called scholars make comments that a particular writer of Scripture was only expressing his own ideas. Pardon me? Did they not read this passage in second Timothy? It does not say that "some Scripture" is inspired (God-breathed); it says "ALL Scripture" is inspired (God breathed).

WHAT DOES "GOD BREATHED" MEAN?

It means that God speaks through the mind and intellect of those He has chosen to pen the words of our Bible.

THE BIBLE IS COMPRISED OF 66 BOOKS WRITTEN OVER A PERIOD OF ABOUT 1,500 YEARS BY OVER 40 AUTHORS FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE.

These writers had different kinds of personalities, and were faced with all sorts of challenges.

**It was written in three languages on three continents, and it covers hundreds of controversial subjects. Yet, it fits together into one cohesive story with an appropriate beginning, a logical ending, a central character, and a consistent theme.**

ONLY A MIGHTY GOD COULD BREATHE HIS DIVINE INSPIRATION INTO MEN AND DO THAT! WHAT A MIGHTY GOD WE SERVE!

# DAY 78 (March 18)

# WHY AM I HERE?

Romans 15:13

"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit."

Well, I find myself at odds with one of the well-known ministers of our day. In recent weeks a few readers have forwarded comments made by this man which give his response to the question: "What is the purpose of life?" Here is what he replied: "In a nutshell, life is preparation for eternity."

That response just did not sit well with me (as with some of his other comments). It is easy to make comments, but it is another thing to support one's comments with Scripture.

As I meditated on what is our real purpose in life, I recalled one of the most fundamental questions contained in the Westminster Shorter Catechism:

Q. WHAT IS THE CHIEF END OF MAN?

A. MAN'S CHIEF END IS TO GLORIFY GOD, AND TO ENJOY HIM FOREVER.

Simply living life in order to prepare for eternity leaves many gaps. It places undue focus on our own interests rather than upon the Lord Himself. If our chief aim is to glorify God and enjoy Him forever, we will spend time in His Word, inquiring of Him what His will is for our life.

Yes, it is preparation for eternity, but we are not the important part of the equation. **HE IS OUR ALL IN ALL; OUR ETERNITY BEGINS THE MOMENT WE ARE BORN AGAIN AND HAVE OUR NAME WRITTEN IN THE LAMB'S BOOK OF LIFE.** That is our real purpose for being here!

# DAY 79 (March 19)

# JESUS WINS!

Revelation 22:12-13

"Behold, I am coming soon! My reward is with Me, and I will give to everyone according to what he has done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End."

I once took a speed reading class taught by an instructor who could read an entire book in less than an hour...and then pass an examination covering the material. The one thing he taught us that sticks in my mind is to start at the back of the book.

It seemed to be the most ridiculous thing I had ever heard. But he explained that when you desire to get the most out of a book, you are not looking for surprises. Therefore, you need to first learn what the writer's objective is so you will be able to better grasp how he comes to his conclusion.

I have a habit of watching sporting programs on TV (or DVD) over and over again. I find that by knowing what is going to happen, I am better able to appreciate the play strategy throughout the game.

I once heard a highly educated biblical scholar share an incident when he was teaching on the Book of Revelation. After stating to the group in attendance that it was very difficult to understand Revelation, a man with very little formal education raised his hand and said, **"DOCTOR, I CAN EXPLAIN THE ENTIRE BOOK IN TWO WORDS—JESUS WINS!"**

In all of the turmoil and uncertainties of life, we need to remind ourselves of this simple fact. It does not matter how drastic the circumstances may seem to be, we can comfort ourselves with the final outcome—JESUS WINS!

# DAY 80 (March 20)

# WHY BE AFRAID?

Isaiah 41:10

"Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with My righteous right hand."

HERE ARE TWO STRAIGHTFORWARD QUESTIONS FOR YOU TO CONSIDER:

What can fear do for you in your hour of greatest need?

How can fear contribute to resolving problems that seem insurmountable?

The most common trait of fear is paralysis. Perhaps most of us have encountered driving at night and suddenly seeing a deer frozen in fear at the sight of our approaching headlights.

THE EXPRESSION "LIKE A DEER IN THE HEADLIGHTS" HAS COME TO CHARACTERIZE A PERSON'S REACTION TO FEAR.

Military strategists are quite aware of this paralyzing effect of fear. Before being sent into a battle, basic training for the new military recruits is designed to teach reaction to what has been taught rather than giving in to fear.

The enemy of our souls tries to scare the living daylights out of us, knowing that if he succeeds, we will react like a deer in the headlights and be of little value in advancing the Lord's Kingdom.

SO HOW DO WE GO ABOUT OVERCOMING OUR FEAR?

The answer is to trust the Lord completely. He is the One who knows us and who is with us at all times.

Today's Scripture assures us that He is our God and is with us to provide the strength we need for what we are going through and what lies ahead.

In addition to today's Scripture, Psalm 23 tells us that even though we pass through the valley of the shadow of death, He is with us and His Rod and Staff will protect us.

WHAT A SENSE OF COMFORT THAT GIVES US! DON'T BE AFRAID!

#  DAY 81 (March 21)

# DO WHAT IS RIGHT!

Genesis 4:7

"If you do what is right, will you not be accepted? But if you do not do what is right, sin is crouching at your door; it desires to have you, but you must rule over it."

ISN'T IT STRANGE THE WAY OUR SINFUL MINDS WORK?

Our old sinful nature is so self-absorbed that even when we do something wrong we try to rationalize our way out of it. Generally, we just do not want to admit that we are wrong.

In my years of experience in the field of law enforcement, I have observed and been involved in many court cases. Almost always, the offender denies the charge. **Any officer who stops a driver he suspects of being intoxicated is quite often met with the claim that he (or she) "only had two drinks."**

More serious offenses that go to trial require much evidence and often a jury trial to find the offender guilty. The judge then pronounces the sentence for the guilty party.

I have had a unique opportunity to meet with a group of sentenced offenders who faced many years behind bars.

Such a group of men came to know the Lord, and we regularly met for Bible study inside the walls of the Idaho State Penitentiary.

IT WAS ONE OF THE MOST REWARDING EXPERIENCES OF MY LIFE TO HEAR THESE MEN OPENLY CONFESS THEIR OFFENSES AND TELL HOW JESUS HAD COME INTO THEIR HEARTS TO GIVE THEM NEW LIVES.

They were quick to point out that they had done wrong and wanted to encourage others to turn from the path they had taken.

# DAY 82 (March 22)

#  DO WHAT IS RIGHT – PART TWO!

Genesis 4:7

"If you do what is right, will you not be accepted? But if you do not do what is right, sin is crouching at your door; it desires to have you, but you must rule over it."

Yesterday I told about the Bible study with inmates at the Idaho State Penitentiary back when I was Deputy Director of the Idaho Law Enforcement Criminal Justice Planning Commission. **It was refreshing to be around offenders willing to admit their crimes and be able to accept Jesus Christ as the Lord of their lives.**

There was one inmate that I will always remember— **VIRGIL**.

My wife worked for the Warden and Virgil was assigned to clean their office area. Joyce always remarked about how impressed she was with this older man.

One day Virgil asked if I might be able to help him get a parole. When I asked him why I should help him, he replied that he did not want to die in prison. Now in his sixties, this man had been in jail or prison for almost all of his life.

Ultimately, I did help Virgil and he was hired to clean our building in downtown Boise after his release. _I made a point of inviting him to drop by my office at lunch time where we discussed eternity._ I pray that Virgil truly made a decision for Christ because he died in his sleep only a few months after his release from prison.

Sometimes the opportunities of sharing the gospel of Jesus with the lost may take unexpected turns. While we are not responsible for the way people will react to our message, we need to be sensitive to the Holy Spirit's leading.

There are many reasons why formerly hard hearts may suddenly be open to the Word. Lead on, Lord Jesus, and give us wise discernment.

#  DAY 83 (March 23)

# LOVE 'TIL IT HURTS!

1 John 4:10-11

"This is love: not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another."

I really enjoy working until I feel very fatigued. It is at this time that I am able to give myself in sacrificial love to my wife and family. There have been times when I have felt totally exhausted and forced myself to do something for Joyce that really challenged me.

As I reflect on these times, I realized that sacrificial love has produced the most joyful times in our marriage. It has given me a feeling of truly demonstrating my love that is far more than mere words. At the same time, it has made Joyce feel that she is cherished and adored.

SACRIFICIAL LOVE IS NOT AN OPTION, ESPECIALLY FOR HUSBANDS.

**In Ephesians 5:25,** _husbands are commanded: "Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave Himself up for her."_

This sacrificial love is not restricted to husbands. To live a Christ-like life means that each of us must give freely of ourselves with no thought of return. It is giving unselfishly in the same manner that Christ has given Himself for us.

HOW WOULD YOU RATE YOUR LEVEL OF SACRIFICIAL LOVE?

# DAY 84 (March 24)

# WHERE ARE YOU GOING?

John 3:18

"Whoever believes in Him (Jesus) is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because he has not believed in the name of God's one and only Son."

Recently I received this thought-provoking message from my dear friend David Sutton. I hope you are as impressed with the simplicity of the truth as I was.

THREE TRAGIC STEPS

1. DESERVE "THE DEATH SIN-PENALTY."  
2. AVOID "BEING BORN AGAIN."   
3. EXHALE "YOUR LAST BREATH OF AIR."

**~TRULY YOU ARE "IN HELL"** _________________________________

THREE SALVATION STEPS

1. DESERVE "THE DEATH SIN-PENALTY."  
2. BE "BORN AGAIN."  
3. EXHALE "YOUR LAST BREATH OF AIR."

~TRULY YOU ARE "IN HEAVEN" ~

WHERE ARE YOU GOING TO SPEND ETERNITY? REPENT AND BE BORN AGAIN AND I WILL SEE YOU IN HEAVEN!

#  DAY 85 (March 25)

# DON'T BE AFRAID!

Isaiah 41:10

"So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."

DID YOU KNOW THAT FEAR PARALYZES?

Perhaps most of us have heard the expression, **"He froze like a deer in the headlights."** Think of the most frightful experiences of your life and you may be able to relate to that poor animal.

I believe that Satan uses fear to keep believers from doing the things that the Lord has called us and empowered us to accomplish. Satan causes us to imagine that we will be laughed at or tormented if we obey the Lord, so we tend to stare into his headlights and do nothing.

In the midst of our fear we are given this powerful verse in Isaiah 41:10. It was one of the first verses I memorized over 60 years ago. There are two things that we are instructed to do **:**

DON'T FEAR AND DON'T BE DISMAYED.

That may seem simple, but when Satan's boogeyman jumps out, it is hard to control our fear and dismay.

But thank the Lord He gives us two reasons why we need not give in to fear or dismay.

HE IS WITH US AND HE IS OUR GOD!

Wow! That is powerful, but it does not end there.

**THE LORD PROMISES WHAT HE WILL DO FOR US IF WE DO NOT FEAR OR BECOME DEPRESSED:** **He will strengthen us and help us and uphold us with His righteous right hand. The right hand is the symbol of ultimate divine power.**

I CHALLENGE YOU TO LET THE LORD FIGHT YOUR BATTLES WITH THE ENEMY.

Trust Him completely and know that He never leaves you or forsakes you but will always be with you.

#  DAY 86 (March 26)

# CHOICES!

Deuteronomy 30:15-18

See, I set before you today life and prosperity, death and destruction. For I command you today to love the Lord your God, to walk in obedience to him, and to keep his commands, decrees and laws; then you will live and increase, and the Lord your God will bless you in the land you are entering to possess. 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, I declare to you this day that you will certainly be destroyed. You will not live long in the land you are crossing the Jordan to enter and possess.

**AREN'T YOU GLAD WE DO NOT LIVE IN THE DAY WHEN PEOPLE WORSHIPED IDOLS?** Back then they made idols of gold, wood, or stone to worship. These **"gods"** became so important to the people that their entire lives revolved around worshipping something they themselves had made. It makes you wonder how they could have been so foolish.

Before we get carried away with the condemnation of people in past ages, we need to take a long look at our own day and age. We live in such a hedonistic society that most people give themselves over to anything that will give pleasure. **We have erected modern day gods of the "stuff" of life. We bow at the shrine of everything that is new and modern because it will make us FEEL GOOD.**

Too many Christians have fallen into this same kind of tragic worship. Moses confronted the Israelites with a loud call to love the Lord and walk in obedience to His written word. We need to make the choice to serve the Lord our God with all our heart, with all our soul, and with all of our mind.

MAKE THE RIGHT CHOICE!

# DAY 87 (March 27)

# LIVING FEARLESS!

Isaiah 41:10 (Amplified)

"Fear not [there is nothing to fear], for I am with you; do not look around you in terror and be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen and harden you to difficulties, yes, I will help you; yes, I will hold you up and retain you with My [victorious] right hand of rightness and justice."

It seems like a hundred years ago that I was a small boy struggling to memorize Scripture in a Sunday School Class in Camas, Washington.

**ONE OF THE FIRST VERSES THAT I EVER MEMORIZED WAS ISAIAH 41:10.** Across the years I have recited this verse and meditated upon it many times. That reminds me that it really is vital to memorize a verse before you can meditate on it. As I have contemplated on the meaning I have been encouraged to stay as far away from fear and depression as possible.

I ESPECIALLY LIKE THE WAY THE AMPLIFIED BIBLE EXPLAINS THAT IN REALITY THERE IS NOTHING FOR THE BELIEVER TO FEAR.

If we live, we live for the Lord. If we die, our next awareness is to be in the presence of the Lord. Either way, there is nothing to fear. Depression is our limiting the ability of the Lord to bring glory out of the most impossible situation. **SOMEONE HAS SAID** , **"I can't, He can! That's all I need to know—let's go!"**

Another of the verses I memorized so long ago was Romans 8:28: "AND WE KNOW THAT IN ALL THINGS GOD WORKS FOR THE GOOD OF THOSE WHO LOVE HIM, WHO HAVE BEEN CALLED ACCORDING TO HIS PURPOSE."

If we truly believe this verse, we will move from victory to victory—regardless of the circumstances. That is the way to live!

# DAY 88 (March 28)

# WHO ARE YOU?

Philippians 2:3-4

"Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others."

If someone asked you to describe who you are, what would you say? Without using titles, educational degrees, or financial standing, what are the qualities that describe you? What makes you the person you are?

Some people believe that if they attain a particular objective, they will have arrived. **It usually is only a short period of time before they realize that "ARRIVING" is not what they had expected.**

Yes, they met their objective, but after a while it only left them feeling empty. They do things for other people in order for them to return the favor. If the response is less than expected, they are crushed.

I love the way Paul explains it in today's Scripture. He boldly suggests that it is possible to do things for selfish motives. They strive to accomplish things so people will think highly of them. But if all their efforts go unappreciated, they feel that they are failures.

Paul gives the solution to the problem: **"HUMILITY!"** It is the attribute of considering others more important than one's self. It often will involve doing for others who will never be able to return the favor.

NOW IS THE TIME FOR SELF EXAMINATION: "WHO ARE YOU?" ARE YOU DOING ACTS OF RIGHTEOUSNESS TO PLEASE THE LORD OR ONLY TO GRATIFY YOURSELF?

# DAY 89 (March 29)

# LIVE DAILY!

Hebrews 3:12-14: "See to it, brothers, that none of you has a sinful, unbelieving heart that turns away from the living God. But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called today, so that none of you may be hardened by sin's deceitfulness."

There was a little lady who had a sweet spirit in spite of her many ailments. When asked how she was feeling, Minnie always replied, "Good, but life is so daily!" I am sure that all of us have felt that way from time to time. We take a step or two forward, but like the old saying **, "THE HURRIER I GO, THE BEHINDER I GET!"**

Sometimes as I sit down at the computer and prepare my Daily-E-Votionals, I wonder how many actually take the time to read them or if it is a waste of time. That is when I am prone to use that expression of Minnie's **..."LIFE IS SO DAILY!"** Then I pray and realize that I am not responsible for other's responses, only my action. The Lord will cause those who have a need to receive what is given. I hope that in itself may be an encouragement for you.

Many times we grow weary in well doing when we fail to see results from our efforts. There have been other faithful servants of the Lord who have labored for years with no signs of acceptance. Perhaps only one person would respond. That is enough! We need to remind ourselves that it is the Lord of the harvest who is in charge. We are His field hands.

We live in a world that is so preoccupied with numbers that we overlook the one or two whose lives have been changed. By our caring, some may find Jesus as their personal Savior. Life may be "so daily," but it can also be "so fruitful!" OUR SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY INSTRUCTS US TO ENCOURAGE EACH OTHER DAILY. It will lift our spirits to the heavens and put a song in our heart. It will cause us to rise each morning with a song of praise: **"LIFE IS SO DAILY – AND I CAN HARDLY WAIT TO GET AT IT!"**

# DAY 90 (March 30)

# FORGET IT!

Philippians 3:13-14

"Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus."

August 1989 was when I received a call from our oldest daughter who lived a few hundred miles from us. She started the conversation by asking if I was sitting down. I told her I was.

She said she was in the hospital in Boise, Idaho, with a very rare heart condition.

Her words gripped me and caused me to immediately go to the Lord to seek wisdom, guidance, and strength.

When we arrived in Boise, the doctor informed us and Brenda that the only possibility of saving her life was a heart and lung transplant. The prognosis of a critical condition struck like lightning.

In spite of all the efforts of medical science, Brenda had her perfect healing on July 11, 1991, when she was ushered into the presence of her Lord.

SOMETIMES THE TRAUMATIC MOMENTS IN OUR LIVES WILL CHANGE US COMPLETELY.

We may be able to go on, but we will never be able to go back.

With a broken heart I read many of your messages that tell of defeat, deceit, divorce, disaster, or death. As I read and pray for those of you who have written, there is one certainty— **YOU WILL NEVER BE THE SAME.**

When Brenda called on that tragic day, all our lives changed dramatically. We were not the same family as before.

She changed radically from an apathetic believer to a sold-out soul winner. She accomplished far more for her Lord in the few months she was given than many do in an entire lifetime.

**SO, HOW ABOUT YOU?** **ARE YOU SPENDING YOUR TIME AND EFFORTS TRYING TO PUT THINGS BACK THE WAY THEY WERE BEFORE YOUR TRAUMATIC MOMENT?**

If you are, the object of your efforts is YOU! Instead of reaching out to others, you may have become self-absorbed and introverted. In the book of Genesis, Joseph was sold into slavery. That was certainly a traumatic moment for him.

WHAT DID HE DO ABOUT IT?

He must have learned the Egyptian language so well that he became the head over his master's (Mr. P) house. Then he was falsely accused by Mrs. P and thrown into prison for many years.

Joseph's refusal to wallow in self-pity opened the door for him to develop keen organizational skills.

Those skills became essential when he was promoted to the second highest position in Egypt to become the means of salvation for his family (even the brothers who had treated him so cruelly and sold him as a slave). To me, one of the most revealing aspects of Joseph's life is found in Genesis 50:20. Jacob had died and his brothers feared that Joseph would now retaliate for the evil they had done to him so long ago.

They concocted a story that Jacob had told them to tell Joseph to forgive his brothers and not harm them.

Joseph's words show his total dependence upon God in the good times or the bad times. _"You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives."_ If you're in the time of your pain and trial, look to the Lord and be busy about His business. God is able to use our painful trials to do His work. Look to the Lord and find hope! Philippians 3:13-14

#  DAY 91 (April 1)

# DON'T DO IT!

Proverbs 3:5-7

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight. Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and shun evil."

HAVE YOU EVER FOUND YOURSELF IN THE MIDST OF A SITUATION THAT SEEMED TO HAVE NO SOLUTION?

I am tempted to describe one or two, but if I do it may prevent you from relating to your own particular no-win situation.

How do we cope?

In today's Scripture we see that there are two things we are cautioned to avoid:

  1. RELYING ON OUR OWN UNDERSTANDING OR

  2. BEING WISE IN OUR OWN EYES.

This is very hard for us to grasp since we want to control things around us.

When we encounter evil or injustice, we rise up with righteous indignation and want to correct the situation.

James 1:19-20 makes it clear that our zealous anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires.

If we are to avoid using our own abilities, is there anything we can do when faced with the problems that confront us?

The answer is very clear.

IT BEGINS WITH TRUSTING IN THE LORD WITH ALL OF OUR HEART. THAT MEANS LETTING GO AND LETTING GOD HAVE CONTROL.

SECONDLY WE MUST ACKNOWLEDGE GOD IN ALL OF OUR WAYS.

The Hebrew word for acknowledge is the word **YADA**.

It means, in part, to learn more and more about God and His ways.

**We do that as we rest in Him, study His Word, and discover more of His wonderful attributes**.

# DAY 92 (April 2)

# HOW TO PRAY!

Colossians 1:9

"For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you and asking God to fill you with the knowledge of His will through all spiritual wisdom and understanding."

It seems that God's children have always had a question of how to pray. Jesus' disciples asked Him how to pray, even though they had been in His presence and had heard many of His prayers personally. **So how are we to pray—above and beyond the Prayer Jesus taught His disciples to pray (what we have come to know as the Lord's Prayer)?**

I think we have all experienced prayer services where no prayer has been requested or offered that was not for a physical need. That is not to say that we are not to pray for physical afflictions, but we seem to be banging our head against the wall if that is the extent of our prayers.

We are repeatedly told that we are to praise the Lord in our prayer times. In spite of that, we usually launch into a laundry list of requests instead of magnifying and glorifying the Lord who has given us eternal life.

Besides praising the Lord, how should we be praying for others?

In today's Scripture, Paul has just received word from Epaphras of the faith of the saints living in Colosse. His prayer for them should be a pattern for each of us as we pray for fellow Christians **. HE PRAYED CONTINUALLY FOR GOD TO FILL THEM WITH THE KNOWLEDGE OF HIS WILL THROUGH ALL SPIRITUAL WISDOM AND UNDERSTANDING.**

That is my prayer for each of you as you read this Daily-E-Votional!

# DAY 93 (April 3)

# PRAYER PURPOSE!

Colossians 1:10

"And we pray this in order that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and may please Him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God."

In the previous E-Votional we looked at Paul's instructions for praying for the saints that they may be filled with spiritual wisdom and understanding.

That suggests to me that we are to pray for the spiritual growth and maturity of every believer.

In today's Scripture, Paul gives the reason for spiritual maturity: _that we might produce fruit in every good work as our knowledge of god increases. As i read this passage i get the impression that we are to bear fruit in the process of growth._

It is easy to have the false notion that we have to **"ARRIVE"** at some level of competence before we are to produce fruit. That is not the case. Our testimony about what the Lord Jesus has done for us does not require special training. **IT JUST HAS TO BE AUTHENTIC!**

As we discover more and more truths from God's Word, we will be able to have a greater impact as we share what we have discovered in our personal study of God's Word.

It seems to me that the lamest idea of discipleship is to drag someone to church so the "preacher" can hammer away with the truth of the gospel.

WHAT IF THERE WAS NO "PREACHER" AND YOU WERE THE ONLY ONE TO SNATCH A HUMAN SOUL FROM THE ROAD THAT LEADS TO HELL?

Would you be prepared to accomplish the task?

In 2 Timothy 2:15, Paul admonishes Timothy to study so that God will be pleased as he becomes a worker who knows how to correctly divide God's Holy Word.

THAT IS MY PRAYER FOR EACH OF US.

#  DAY 94 (April 4)

#  RESTORING WALLS!

Nehemiah 4:14

"After I looked things over, I stood up and said to the nobles, the officials and the rest of the people, 'Don't be afraid of them. Remember the LORD, who is great and awesome, and fight for your brothers, your sons and your daughters, your wives and your homes."

Ezra had previously returned to Jerusalem with a remnant of the exiles who had survived the 70 years of Babylonian captivity. Ezra and his remnant had rebuilt the temple, but they faced oppression and conflict from the people living in that area, many of whom had been moved from their original homes, much like the Palestinians in modern day Israel.

We read in Nehemiah 1:3 that a sad report was given: _"They said to me, 'Those who survived the exile and are back in the province are in great trouble and disgrace. The wall of Jerusalem is broken down, and its gates have been burned with fire.' "_

Nehemiah was crushed and heart-broken. For days he mourned and fasted as he cried out to the Lord.

The Lord heard his prayer and gave him favor with the king. He was allowed to return to Jerusalem with 42,360 Israelites and 7,337 servants.

THEIR TASK WAS TO REBUILD THE WALLS OF THE CITY.

It was a dismal scene which greeted them and there was considerable opposition. It just seemed to be more than they were able to accomplish. **It was then that Nehemiah gave the encouragement that we find in today's passage.** The reason they were to have courage and not be afraid was because it was the Lord Himself who was great and awesome and who would give the people the strength to withstand their enemies.

QUESTION TIME!

What walls need rebuilding in your life?

I am not talking about walls of separation, but walls of stability and purpose in your life.

Who are the enemies who oppose you?

WHAT ARE YOUR WEAPONS TO DEFEND AGAINST THESE FOES?

Nehemiah encouraged the people by reminding them of who their God was and how great and mighty is His name.

WE NEED TO KEEP THAT IN OUR MINDS AS WELL. WE SERVE A GOD WHO IS ABOVE ALL OF OUR ADVERSARIES! WE NEED TO BEGIN LIVING AS MORE THAN CONQUERORS!

Take a look at the walls which are broken down in your life—the gates which have been burned.

Ask the Lord to give you the strength and determination to see to the rebuilding of those walls.

DO NOT BE OVERCOME BY THE WORLD, BUT OVERCOME THE WORLD THROUGH HIM WHO IS THERE BESIDE YOU TO BRING THE VICTORY.

# DAY 95 (April 5)

#   FORGIVE THE UNFORGIVEABLE!

Matthew 18:21-22

"Then Peter came and said to Him, 'Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me and I forgive him? Up to seven times?' Jesus said to him, 'I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven."

I have been trying to think of the most unforgiveable act someone could commit against you.

  * The murder of a loved one?

  * A sexual assault?

  * The theft of one's life savings?

  * Being left paralyzed by a drunk driver?

ANY OF THESE EVENTS WOULD RANK HIGH ON THE LIST OF THINGS THAT WOULD BE HARD TO FORGIVE.

**Have you ever been a victim?** No, I do not necessarily mean that a crime has been committed against you (although that may be the case), BUT HAS SOMEONE'S WORDS OR ACTIONS CAUSED YOU PAIN OR DISCOMFORT. _Are you able to sincerely forgive that person?_

HOW DO YOU GO ABOUT FORGIVING A PERSON OF SOMETHING THAT SEEMS TO BE UNFORGIVEABLE?

I immediately think that the first step is to ask God for the wisdom and strength to know how to forgive. Most often we want to wait until the offender asks us to forgive them.

THAT SHOULD NOT BE THE CASE.

We need to forgive our offenders even if they never express regret and ask to be forgiven.

One of the critical steps in forgiveness is to search our hearts to determine if there was something we did or said that contributed to the offense.

IF THERE IS, WE NEED TO DEAL WITH THAT ISSUE.

Let's assume that we determine that we are responsible for 2% of the incident and the other party 98%.

It is essential that we have a clear conscience for our 2%, so we need to ask Mr. 98% to please forgive us. Ouch!

# DAY 96 (April 6)

# WAIT ON THE LORD!

Isaiah 40:31

"But those who wait on the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint."

As I write this a storm front has arrived with torrents of rain. (Hey, it's Washington, what else is new?)

**This heavy rain takes me back to a time over 70 years ago**.

We were returning home from church and my dad noticed a car stopped ahead of us. The driver was gesturing out his window so he would not have to get out and be drenched with the rain.

Dad eased up to his bumper and began to push him so his engine would start. (Back when we had stick shift drives you could do that.

Almost immediately the man began to wave more frantically. He got out into the rain and came up to explain that he was out of gas and was trying to roll back into town so he could get to a filling station. **Ooops!**

DAD HAD GOOD INTENTIONS, BUT WRONG ASSISTANCE.

Isaiah 40:31 is one of the first verses I ever memorized. It has always been a reminder to me that it is necessary to wait on the Lord. I often like to run ahead of the Lord and that leads to frustration and exhaustion. When the Lord calls me He also gives me the strength for the task.

# DAY 97 (April 7)

# WHAT IF?

Matthew 6:33-34

"But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble."

As I write this it is just 1:15 on the morning side of the clock. I usually would be asleep at this hour, but I am not feeling too well and decided it would be better to get up rather than toss and turn in bed. I suppose most of us have experienced these wakeful nights when we just didn't feel up to par.

**It has caused me to consider what it would be like if I had a serious illness and was facing the end of my life.** I have a list of things that I need to get done tomorrow...WHO WOULD DO THEM? Who would assume my responsibilities if I were to go and be with the Lord? _What foolish thoughts, and yet many waste their time with such issues_

WHAT IF YOUR LIFE WAS TO SUDDENLY END?

People will not remember you by the things you possess, but by the love of Jesus that they've seen in you and the way you lived as a citizen of the heavenly realm, not this earthly one. It is the Lord who gives us the strength to meet each day with its joys and sorrows. **YES, THERE WILL COME A TIME WHEN OUR EARTHLY LIFE WILL END, BUT HEAVEN AWAITS THOSE OF US WHO HAVE BEEN BORN AGAIN.**

C.T. Studd wrote a poem that many of us have heard and some even think it is from God's Word. **"ONLY ONE LIFE, 'TWILL SOON BE PAST, ONLY WHAT'S DONE FOR CHRIST WILL LAST." WHAT LEGACY ARE YOU LEAVING FOR THOSE WHO WILL FOLLOW IN YOUR FOOTSTEPS?**

# DAY 98 (April 8)

# DEATH TO LIFE!

John 12:24-25

"Most assuredly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the ground and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it produces much grain. He who loves his life will lose it, and he who hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life."

You may have heard the story of a young girl with a rare blood type who was dying of kidney failure. After checking with various family members, ONLY HER BROTHER WAS A MATCH to donate one of his kidneys that would allow his sister to live.

The doctors asked him if he was willing to donate his kidney and he bravely replied that he was. As the day for the transplant surgery drew near, the boy became quieter and more introspective. He would enter the operating room first so the doctors could remove one of his kidneys before transplanting it into his sister.

As the young boy lay on the operating table, the doctor asked him if he was ready. He said that he was but he had a question: _"Doctor, how long before I die?"_

This brave little brother had not understood that he had two kidneys and that both he and his sister would be able to live normal lives after the transplant surgery.

That poignant story is especially meaningful to me since **OUR GRANDDAUGHTER JENNA DONATED ONE OF HER KIDNEYS TO SAVE THE LIFE OF OUR YOUNGEST DAUGHTER, HER AUNT LORI.** (Some of you may recall that Jenna's mother was our daughter Brenda, who died when she was only 35.)

JESUS CAME INTO THE WORLD TO DIE!

He did not come to save His life, but to offer it as a sacrifice that all who will may receive eternal life.

JESUS OFFERS US THE ULTIMATE TRANSPLANT.

Our old sin-sick heart replaced by a new heart and a new life. What a wonderful gift!

New life in Christ, abundant and free! RECEIVE IT!

# DAY 99 (April 9)

# TIME!

Luke 12:19-21

"And I will say to my soul, 'Soul, you have many goods laid up for many years; take your ease; eat, drink, and be merry.' But God said to him, 'Fool! This night your soul will be required of you; then whose will those things be which you have provided?' So is he who lays up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God."

WHEN I WAS YOUNG I SELDOM, IF EVER, THOUGHT ABOUT MY LIFE ENDING.

In my 20's I laughed at my brother when he reached the ripe old age of 30. He was seven years older and it would be a long time before I got that old.

I should not have laughed, for in what seemed like a blink of the eye, I reached 30...then 40...and here I am in my 80s.

TIME HAS FLOWN BY.

Many of my friends and classmates have died, and we never know what lies ahead for any of us.

ON SATURDAY, JANUARY 8, 2011, A MAN WENT ON A SHOOTING RAMPAGE AT A SUPERMARKET IN TUCSON, ARIZONA. THIS HORRIFIC EVENT TOOK PLACE AT A MEET-AND-GREET EVENT HELD BY CONGRESSWOMAN GABRIELLE GIFFORDS. SIX PEOPLE, INCLUDING A 9-YEAR-OLD GIRL, WERE KILLED—AND 13, INCLUDING REPRESENTATIVE GIFFORDS, WERE SERIOUSLY WOUNDED.

Stop and think about it for a few uncomfortable moments.

Here was a crowd of people and a Representative, happy and very much alive.

I can imagine that some had come to shake her hand or to implore her about a particular issue.

Then, in a moment of time, everything changed. Suddenly several people are wounded...and just as suddenly, several others are forever thrust into eternity as their time here on earth ends.

REGARDLESS OF AGE, WE NEVER KNOW WHEN OUR TIME WILL COME. ARE YOU READY?

#  DAY 100 (April 10)

# MY WIFE!

1 Peter 3:3-4

"Do not let your adornment be merely outward—arranging the hair, wearing gold, or putting on fine apparel—rather let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the incorruptible beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is very precious in the sight of God."

I really feel sorry for other men in the world. Back in 1948 I met a girl who was to become my wife some four years later. SHE WAS A BEAUTY THAT MADE MY HEART SKIP EACH TIME I WAS NEAR HER. But that was just the outer appearance.

EARLY THIS MORNING, JOYCE TURNED ON THE LIGHT AND QUIETLY STATED THAT SHE FELT LIKE SHE MIGHT BE HAVING A HEART ATTACK.

In the moments waiting for the paramedics to arrive, she gently shared her love and that she was prepared to go and be with the Lord if she didn't make it.

It was not the time to argue, but to acknowledge our love and assure that each of us knew our hearts were right with the Lord.

Praise the Lord! It was not a heart attack and she is back home.

There have been several times this day when I have been all alone and reflected on my wonderful blessing to have a wife like Joyce. Over and over my mind went back to this passage in 1 Peter 3. The words, "Gentle and quiet spirit," echo in my mind. She is my idea of what a woman of God should be.

My prayer is that the women who read this will commit themselves to be what God desires a true woman of God to be. Strive to have a gentle and quiet spirit. **I urge you husbands to love your wives as Christ loved His church and gave Himself up for her. Tell her of your love and show it by the things you do in her behalf.**

# DAY 101 (April 11)

# ARE YOU HAPPY?

John 16:33

"These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world."

In our pursuit to achieve happiness and contentment, our normal reaction to any uncomfortable situation is get out from under it. I have spent a lifetime counseling individuals and couples and have found that their primary aim is to be happy and comfortable.

I've had to be the bearer of the bad news that in this world we will not be protected from pain, suffering, and tragedy. Does that mean we cannot be happy? Not on your life. The words in today's Scripture were spoken by Jesus Himself.

As we read His words, notice that our source of peace is to be found only in Jesus. He states that in this world we will have tribulation, but immediately gives us the instruction to be of good cheer.

STOP! Notice that the good cheer follows His words that we will have tribulation in this old sin-sick world. There are two major points that I hear Jesus saying:

  1. In Him we have the source of peace. That should be our primary goal—to be in Him.

  2. We can be of good cheer because He has overcome the world. Did you notice that? He has already overcome the world! Jesus wins! That being the case, when tribulations arise we need to stop and ask Him what He wants to teach us. We are not alone! He is leading us and guiding us, even in the times of tribulation. What joy!

# DAY 102 (April 12)

# IN AN INSTANT!

Romans 10:8-10

"But what does it say? 'The word is near you, in your mouth and in your heart' (that is, the word of faith which we preach): that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation."

On Friday, March 11, 2011, the entire world was stunned with news of a powerful 8.9 earthquake and tsunami just off Honshu Island, Japan. **The devastation was so massive and had such an impact that the world is still coping with it.**

THE THING THAT HAS STRUCK ME WAS JUST HOW QUICKLY IT HAPPENED.

Almost every major catastrophe has also happened in a split second. People can be going about their business one minute and in great jeopardy the next.

**IT IS TRAGIC THAT WE HAVE MANY FAMILY, FRIENDS, AND CO-WORKERS WHO FAIL TO MAKE A DECISION FOR CHRIST.** They know they need to confess their sins and ask Him into their heart, but they are waiting for a **"MORE CONVENIENT TIME."** For some, that **"MORE CONVENIENT TIME" MAY NEVER COME.**

The good news is that Jesus has offered eternal life to all who come to Him with a sincere heart to turn from their old way of living and invite Him to be the Lord of their life. **THE DECISION CANNOT—MUST NOT—BE DELAYED.**

# DAY 103 (April 13)

# DO WHAT'S RIGHT!

1 Thessalonians 5:19-22

"Do not quench the Spirit. Do not despise prophecies. Test all things; hold fast what is good. Abstain from every form of evil."

Whether the American, British, or Canadian version, Joyce and I enjoyed watching the Antiques Road Show. I recall an episode of the Canadian version where a middle aged woman brought a ceramic tile to be appraised. It was about 4"X4" and seemed rather insignificant.

When the appraiser asked how she came to have the tile in her possession, the woman related that she had attended an estate sale and bought a box of glassware for $2. During the sale a man came by and was asking frantically if anyone had seen a ceramic tile. They all reported that they had not seen it.

When the woman got home and unpacked the box, there on the bottom, under all of the glasses, was the missing tile. The appraiser asked if she tried to contact the man to return the tile. **She boldly declared that she hadn't.**

_I was stunned by her lack of conscience. It reminded me of an adult acting out the childhood chant: "Finders, keepers! Losers, weepers!"_ I sensed that the appraiser had the same opinion. By the way, he valued the tile at $1,000. **AS BELIEVERS, I FEEL THAT WE MUST ALWAYS LIVE BY THE "GOLDEN RULE."** _That means we must treat others in the same way we would want them to treat us._

# DAY 104 (April 14)

# BE–ATITUDES!

Matthew 5:11

"Blessed (happy, to be envied, and spiritually prosperous–with life-joy and satisfaction in God's favor and salvation, regardless of your outward conditions) are you when people revile you and persecute you and say all kinds of evil things against you falsely on My account." (Amplified Bible)

When I was a boy I recall memorizing the **"BEATITUDES"** recorded in Matthew 5:1-12. Over the years I have read or recited them, but one day I heard a teaching that Jesus's instruction about our **"ATTITUDES"** personified what we should **"BE."**

It was not until I read this passage in the Amplified Bible that I gained new insight through the expanded thought "... **REGARDLESS OF YOUR OUTWARD CONDITIONS."**

Wow! That must have had a tremendous impact on those who were gathered there on a hillside to hear Jesus. I am sure that most of them were experiencing trials and tribulations far beyond anything we have ever faced. Now Jesus teaches them that they were blessed no matter what circumstances arise.

What Jesus taught on that Galilean hillside so long ago still applies to us in our day and age. We are blessed by God's great grace at all times and in every storm that may blow into our life. We need to be people of praise that thank Him for all things and then seek to discover what He wants to teach us through the circumstance.

# DAY 105 (April 15)

# **LAMB'S BOOK OF LIFE**

Luke 12:18-19: "So he said, I will do this: I will pull down my barns and build greater, and there I will store all my crops and my goods. And I will say to my soul, 'Soul, you have many goods laid up for many years; take your ease; eat, drink, and be merry."

Since I have an astigmatism that can only be corrected with glasses, I have had to wear them most of my life (a long, long time). Over the years I have heard people talk about being near sighted and even once worked for a near-sighted Probate Court Judge (his vision was great while reading or seeing anything close up).

He was telling a group of us about being fitted for glasses when he was in his 20's—it was almost a shock to his senses that he could actually read house numbers from the street! He had no idea that this was what people with normal eyesight were able to see.

_Isn't it tragic that most people on the face of the earth are spiritually near sighted?_ **THEY SEE ONLY THOSE THINGS THAT ARE PART OF THE HERE AND NOW, BUT FAIL TO PERCEIVE THAT THE HERE AND NOW IS BUT A VAPOR COMPARED TO THE VAST REALITY OF ETERNITY.**

Satan has blinded the eyes of the unregenerate so that they refuse to consider that eternity is merely a heartbeat away. **THE THINGS OF THIS LIFE WILL QUICKLY BE GONE AND ONLY THOSE WHO HAVE RECEIVED JESUS CHRIST BY PERSONAL INVITATION WILL ENTER INTO THE HOME HE HAS PREPARED FOR THOSE WHO'S NAMES ARE WRITTEN IN THE LAMB'S BOOK OF LIFE. ARE YOU NEAR SIGHTED OR FAR SIGHTED? LAMB'S BOOK OF LIFE**

# DAY 106 (April 16)

# EXCUSES!

1 Samuel 17:33

Saul replied, "you are not able to go out against this philistine and fight him; you are only a young man, and he has been a warrior from his youth."

  * I am too young.

  * I am too old.

  * I am too shy.

  * I am too weak.

  * I am too unprepared...and on it goes.

THESE ARE THE EXCUSES OFTEN MADE TO JUSTIFY NOT BEING INVOLVED IN CHRISTIAN MINISTRY.

It is almost as if some people spend more time and effort searching for excuses than they would have expended actually doing the ministry.

I have been thinking about this since having a conversation recently with one of our subscribers who is blind. I am not sure how many blind folks we have on our list, but there are a number.

As we were talking, he shared with me about a blind and deaf pastor. **HIS NAME IS DR. FRANCIS CASALE AND HE PASTORS A DEAF CONGREGATION IN CALIFORNIA.**

There are other believers who have some physical restriction yet devote their limited body to do the work of the Lord.

Joni Eareckson Tada is a quadriplegic who has devoted her life to encouraging others with disabilities. SHE EVEN PAINTS WITH A BRUSH HELD IN HER TEETH.

AS WE CONSIDER THE DAYS OF OUR LIFE THAT REMAIN, WHAT ARE WE GOING TO DO FOR THE LORD?

Are we going to ignore our limitations and move out with confidence that the Lord will use us just as we are to be just what God wants us to be?

I PRAY THAT WE WILL.

WHAT IS YOUR EXCUSE?

1 SAMUEL 17:33

# DAY 107 (April 17)

# WATCH YOUR ATTITUDE!

2 Corinthians 4:16-18

Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but what is not seen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.

Sometimes I have been accused of not being truthful when I say that everything is going great with me. Read today's Scripture carefully and you will see that those things around us (or in us) do not determine our attitude. _I found the following little story in my files. I hope it will bless you._

"The 92-year-old petite, well-poised and proud mother-in-law of my best friend, who is fully dressed each morning by 0800, with her hair fashionably coifed and makeup perfectly applied, even though she is legally blind, moved to a nursing home today. Her husband of 70 years recently passed away, making the move necessary. Maurine Jones is the most lovely, gracious, dignified woman I have ever had the pleasure of meeting. While I have never aspired to attain her depth of wisdom, I do pray that I will learn from her vast experience.

"After many hours of waiting patiently in the lobby of the nursing home, she smiled sweetly when told her room was ready. As she maneuvered her walker to the elevator, I provided a visual description of her tiny room, including the eyelet sheets that had been hung on her window. 'I love it,' she stated with the enthusiasm of an 8-year- old having just been presented with a new puppy. 'Mrs. Jones, you haven't seen the room . . . just wait.'

'That doesn't have anything to do with it,' she replied. **'HAPPINESS IS SOMETHING YOU DECIDE ON AHEAD OF TIME.**

WHETHER I LIKE MY ROOM OR NOT DOESN'T DEPEND ON HOW THE FURNITURE IS ARRANGED.

It's how I arrange my mind. I already decided to love it. It's a decision I make every morning when I wake up.

**I have a choice. I can spend the day in bed recounting the difficulty I have with the parts of my body that no longer work, or get out of bed and be thankful for the ones that do.** '

" **EACH DAY IS A GIFT, AND AS LONG AS MY EYES OPEN, I'LL FOCUS ON THE NEW DAY AND ALL THE HAPPY MEMORIES I'VE STORED AWAY, JUST FOR THIS TIME IN MY LIFE.**

Old age is like a bank account. You withdraw from what you've put in.

So, my advice to you would be to deposit a lot of happiness in the bank account of memories."

#  DAY 108 (April 18)

# OUT OF THE PITS!

Psalm 42:5, 8

"Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise Him, my Savior and my God. By day the LORD directs His love, at night His song is with me a prayer to the God of my life."

HAVE YOU EVER HAD THE BLUE FUNKS, THE DOWN DAYS, THE BLAHS?

REMEMBER THAT OLD LAMENT:

" _Nobody loves me, everybody hates me, I'm going to eat some angle worms. Down goes a fat one, down goes a skinny one. Oh, how they wiggle when they squirm?"_

Boy! That is one from way back in my boyhood days! Aren't you glad that I share such spiritually profound gems with you?

Psalm 42 is credited to the Sons of Korah. The one who wrote this particular Psalm seems to have been depressed at the time. It is interesting that there is a conversation here with his soul. It is a picture of a person who is talking to himself. Have you ever done that?

I've heard that it is permissible to talk to yourself. That's right—you can talk to yourself all you want. The problem arises when you answer yourself and then the conversation turns into an argument! If and when this happens, you're in trouble!

Here is an important principle that I learned long ago: **WHEN SOMEONE IS DEPRESSED, THE LAST THING YOU WANT TO TELL THEM IS, "CHEER UP!"** _That is a good way for you to find yourself on the receiving end of a tirade!_

# DAY 109 (April 19)

# SELLING MINISTRY!

Philippians 4:18-19

I have received full payment and have more than enough. I am amply supplied, now that I have received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent. They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God. And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of His glory in Christ Jesus.

Christian ministries all too often become a business. There, I have said it and, regardless of the response, I have voiced my sincere feelings.

THERE ARE MANY MINISTRIES THAT SEEMINGLY RELY MORE ON A BUSINESS PLAN THAN THE HOLY SPIRIT.

I am always thrilled when I read about the life of George Mueller who lived from 1805 to 1898.

He felt called of God to build an orphanage in Bristol, England. That was a great call, but at the time Mueller possessed only 50 cents.

HE HAD NO BUSINESS PLAN OR FUND-RAISING COMMITTEE.

As a matter of fact, the Lord impressed on him to never mention any need, but to pray fervently and allow the Lord to lay the need on people's hearts to give without any sort of appeal.

What a ridiculous idea! How could anyone expect to operate in that manner?

WELL, HERE ARE JUST SOME OF THE RESULTS OF THE MINISTRY OF GEORGE MUELLER:

  * At the time of his death over $7,000,000 had been donated to build and staff 5 solid granite buildings to care for 2,000 orphans.

  * Over 122,000 people had been taught using funds he supplied; 282,000 Bibles and 1,500,000 Testaments had been distributed.

  * Only the Lord knows the full extent of the ministry that he accomplished.

JUST THINK WHAT WE COULD ACHIEVE IF WE TRULY TRUSTED IN THE LORD AND COMMITTED TO ALLOW HIM TO DO GREAT AND MIGHTY THINGS IN OUR MIDST.

I WANT TO LIVE THAT LIFE OF FAITH.

# DAY 110 (April 20)

# GIVING OUR ALL!

Mark 12:43-44

"Calling His disciples to Him, Jesus said, "Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others. They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything—all she had to live on."

The subject of giving to the Lord has been a hot topic for as long as I can remember. As I read today's Scripture I see that it was just as much an issue at the time Jesus walked the dusty paths of Israel.

As a teenager, I recall a question posed by a minister in response to whether the tithe should be paid on the gross before withholdings or on the net after all of the deduction. The minister's question was: _"Do you want to be blessed on the net or on the gross?"_

I HAVE COME TO UNDERSTAND THAT IT IS NOT JUST THE 10 PERCENT THAT BELONGS TO THE LORD, BUT 100 PERCENT.

Look again at this passage from Luke's gospel. Jesus and His disciples were in the temple watching as the crowds were making their offerings into the treasury. Many rich people gave large amounts, but one poor widow threw in only a few pennies. **It seemed to be nothing at all compared to the vast amounts others gave.**

Jesus used this incident to teach a valuable lesson. The rich people, perhaps even those with moderate means, brought significant offerings. **THE THING THAT MADE THE DIFFERENCE IS THAT THIS POOR WIDOW GAVE HER ALL.** _It was not the extra, but the very means of her life._

#  DAY 111 (April 21)

# SACRIFICIAL GIVING!

1 Kings 17:13-14

"Elijah said to her, "Don't be afraid. Go home and do as you have said. But first make a small loaf of bread for me from what you have and bring it to me, and then make something for yourself and your son. For this is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says: "The jar of flour will not be used up and the jug of oil will not run dry until the day the Lord sends rain on the land."

We too often consider sacrificial giving in terms of foregoing the purchase of some little bauble and donating the money for the work of the Lord instead.

We have the impression that our money is our money and we can do with it as we please. In a way that is true, but the consequences of operating in that manner can be dangerous.

I have always been awed by the story of Elijah and the widow of Zarephath.

You may recall that there was a terrible drought in the land that God had sent to punish the godless King Ahab and his wife Jezebel. I am sure that many had died of starvation and the widow in this passage was near death.

We learn earlier that the Lord had told her that the prophet was coming and she should be prepared for him. I have no idea how long that had been, but there was barely enough flour and oil to make that last meal for herself and her son before they faced death by starvation.

WAS IT REALLY GOD WHO TOLD HER TO PROVIDE WHEN SHE HAD NOTHING?

Incredibly, Elijah told the widow to prepare a small loaf for him FIRST, then she could make the meal for her and her son.

IN FAITH, BELIEVING, SHE OBEYED AND BROUGHT ELIJAH HIS SMALL MEAL.

We must realize that this was no small gift. It was her ultimate act of sacrificial giving.

Above all else we need to inquire of the Lord what He wants us to give and how we are to do it.

**AN OBEDIENT SPIRIT IS WHAT THE LORD IS SEEKING. IT IS NOT THE AMOUNT YOU POSSESS, BUT YOUR WILLINGNESS TO GIVE IT ALL THAT MATTERS TO GOD**.

Are you a sacrificial giver?

# DAY 112 (April 22)

# SEND ME!

Isaiah 6:8

"Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, "Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?" And I said, "Here am I. Send me!"

Ben was a Russian immigrant and spoke with a heavy accent and a raspy voice. I was very good at imitating his unique way of speaking, but not in mockery. I had a deep love for this man of faith. He was a member of a church I had once served as interim pastor.

One day I was driving by the church and noticed Ben mowing the lawn. Later I asked him if the church paid him to do that.

HE LAUGHED AND SAID, "NAW, DAT'S JUST SOMETING I CAN DO FOR DA LORD."

On a hunch I asked him if he mowed any other lawns. He said, "Oh, Ya, dere is a few little widow ladies dat can't do much, so I juss go by and mow da lawn for dem."

WOW!

Here was a precious man who was not a minister of the gospel or a teacher of one of the Bible Classes, BUT HE WAS DOING MINISTRY IN HIS OWN UNIQUE AND PRECIOUS WAY. The Lord spoke to him about the practical needs and Ben responded, **"HERE AM I, SEND ME!"**

IT IS VERY EASY TO USE OUR LACK OF FORMAL TRAINING AS AN EXCUSE FOR NOT MINISTERING.

I am a firm believer that if we have a sincere heart's desire to work for the Lord the door will open.

People frequently mention to me that they've learned there is a particular need.

My immediate response is to let them know that those to whom the Holy Spirit reveals a need are the ones to get involved.

MAY OUR ATTITUDE ALWAYS BE: HERE AM I, SEND ME!

# DAY 113 (April 23)

#  GOD'S DELIVERY AGENT!

Psalm 43:10

Teach me to do your will, for you are my God; May your good Spirit lead me on level ground.

When I was a boy our family attended the Church of the Nazarene in Camas, Washington. I was fascinated by an evangelist who held a revival service at the church.

His name was Uncle Bud Robinson.

**I DO NOT REMEMBER ANYTHING HE SAID, BUT I DO VIVIDLY RECALL SOMETHING HE DID**.

As the offering plate was being passed, Uncle Bud removed a dollar bill from his wallet. As the plate came to him he kissed the bill, placed it in the plate and then waved goodbye to it.

What a character!

One time Uncle Bud was given a $20 bill. He thanked the Lord for it but the Holy Spirit spoke very clearly to him that it was not his—he was to give it to someone that would be revealed to him.

SOMETIME LATER HE WAS HOLDING A REVIVAL IN DETROIT, MICHIGAN, WHEN THE LORD REVEALED THAT HE WAS TO GIVE THE $20 TO SOMEONE AT THIS MEETING.

All week long Uncle Bud waited for some sign of the recipient.

At the final night of the revival several came forward, but there was no indication about who was to receive the money.

The pianist left and it was just Uncle Bud and the pastor. They were ready to turn out the lights and leave when the pianist returned saying that she had left her sweater.

UNCLE BUD'S HEART BEGAN TO BURN AND HE KNEW THIS WAS THE ONE WHO WAS TO RECEIVE THE $20.

She began to sob when he gave her the money. This woman lived quite some distance from the church and only had enough money for bus fare to get to the church.

She was terrified since she would be walking back home through a dangerous part of the city to reach her home.

UNCLE BUD HAD BEEN GOD'S DELIVERY BOY. THAT IS TRUE GIVING!

# DAY 114 (April 24)

# PROSPER!

Genesis 39:1-2

Now Joseph had been taken down to Egypt. Potiphar, an Egyptian who was one of Pharaoh's officials, the captain of the guard, bought him from the Ishmaelites who had taken him there. The Lord was with Joseph so that he prospered, and he lived in the house of his Egyptian master.

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO PROSPER?

Mankind has always been obsessed with obtaining prosperity.

THE PROBLEM IS THAT PROSPERITY IS AN ILL-DEFINED OBJECTIVE. IT SEEMS THAT "JUST A LITTLE BIT MORE" WILL MAKE THEM FEEL PROSPEROUS.

Then they see someone with more than they have. Suddenly their prosperity becomes as nothing and they now must strive to get more and so they can once again feel prosperous.

NO MATTER HOW OFTEN THIS CYCLE IS REPEATED, THEY ARE NOT SATISFIED.

I once had unrestricted access into the Idaho State Penitentiary in Boise where I started a weekly Bible Study with some of the inmates. The group included men who had been sentenced for all sorts of offenses, including murder.

The thing that set these men apart from other prisoners is that they had found Jesus Christ as their personal Savior and were now prospering within the walls of this prison.

More than once I heard some of them rejoice that they felt more free inside the walls with Christ than outside without knowing Him as the Lord of their life.

IN TODAY'S SCRIPTURE, JOSEPH HAD BEEN BETRAYED BY HIS OWN BROTHERS.

They sold him into slavery and thought that he was out of their lives for good. In Egypt, Joseph was sold to the Captain of the Guard, a man named Potiphar.

IT WOULD HAVE BEEN EASY FOR JOSEPH TO HAVE A PITY PARTY. INSTEAD, HE PROSPERED IN POTIPHAR'S HOUSE AS A SLAVE.

Joseph prospered in every situation because he kept his eyes on the Lord.

It was not what he had that made him prosperous, but who had him. The Lord caused him to prosper.

HOW ABOUT YOU?

ARE YOU PROSPERING BECAUSE YOU BELONG TO THE LORD?

# DAY 115 (April 25)

# TAKE TIME TO CARE!

Matthew 25:40

"Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of Mine, you did for Me"

I received the following message from a member of our congregation and one of our dear friends. She works in a judicial court system and has been used of God many times to reach people the traditional church programs miss.

SHE HAS ALLOWED ME TO SHARE IT WITH YOU:

My coworker has worked here for well over 20 years now and currently works as our probation officer. A couple weeks ago she was working with a young man in his early 20s. This man has been a regular in our criminal court since his early teens. He has spent most of his life on drugs and hiding from law enforcement. The probation officer has known him since he was a young child.

He recently spent several months in a drug rehab in-patient facility.

While there, his mother and sisters were arrested and the only home he has ever known was seized as a meth house. _He told the probation officer in one of their meetings that she was the only human being in his entire life that has ever showed him love and compassion._

He told her when he was a little boy he came to the police department with a cut knee. She looked at the knee and said it looked pretty bad and needed some care. She took him to the restroom and washed it out and then put some medication on it and bandaged it up for him.

She then told him to come back in a few days so she could check it for him. He said he remembers telling his mom about his knee and she never even looked at it.

HE REMEMBERS EVERYTHING ABOUT THIS INCIDENT IN DETAIL EVEN THOUGH IT TOOK PLACE AT LEAST TEN YEARS AGO.

The probation officer could barely even remember doing this—it was nothing out of the ordinary for her day.

TEN YEARS AGO WHEN SHE TOOK THE TIME TO LOOK AT A CUT ON A YOUNG BOY'S KNEE SHE HAD NO IDEA THAT WOULD TURN OUT TO BE THE SINGLE MOST IMPORTANT EVENT OF HIS LIFE THUS FAR!!

# DAY 116 (April 26)

# GOD'S GREAT LOVE!

Romans 8:38-39

For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

When Joyce and I were newlyweds, a new senior pastor was called to our church. On his first Sunday he spoke of his joy at becoming the new pastor and wanted to introduce his family to the congregation.

As the family came to the platform, he started to introduce them beginning with his youngest son. As he reached out to place his hand on the boy's head, the boy ducked and raised his hand as if he was about to be struck.

IT WAS QUITE SOME TIME BEFORE THE LAUGHTER SUBSIDED ENOUGH FOR THE REST OF THE FAMILY TO BE INTRODUCED.

Sadly, we all too often react to God in that same manner, expecting to be struck at any moment.

The love of God is so far beyond our human concept of love that we lack words to describe that love poured out in our behalf.

I really feel pity for those believers who seem to go through life in a spiritual crouch, waiting for God to strike.

**THEY DREAD THE TIME WHEN THEY WILL APPEAR BEFORE THE LORD.** When our sins are covered by the shed blood of Jesus Christ, we need not fear. We can do countless good works, but that will not save us or make us fit for heaven.

It is only by confessing our sins and receiving Him into our hearts that His blood covers us and protects us.

Without the blood of Jesus applied to the doorposts of our hearts, there is no salvation.

# DAY 117 (April 27)

# THE LORD'S NAME!

Exodus 20:7

You shall not misuse the name of the Lord your God, for the Lord will not hold anyone guiltless who misuses his name.

" **ARE YOU PRAYING?" THAT WAS THE QUESTION I ASKED A MAN WHO HAD REPEATEDLY USED THE PHRASE, "OH MY GOD!"**

He looked shocked and replied, "What do you mean?"

I said "Well, you keep saying 'My God' and I wanted to know if you are calling on His name in prayer or taking His name in vain?"

As we continued the conversation, the man admitted that he was not even aware that he had used that statement.

We had an extended conversation about how easy it is to establish a habit without even being aware of it.

Calling upon the name of the Lord is a sacred thing.

IT MUST NEVER BE TAKEN LIGHTLY OR AS AN EXPLETIVE OR FLIPPANT EXPRESSION. BEFORE WE FEEL TOO SPIRITUAL, I WANT TO DROP ANOTHER BOMB. THERE ARE MANY CHRISTIANS WHO WOULD NEVER USE THE EXPRESSION, "MY GOD!" BUT EASILY USE A SIMILAR EXPRESSION, "MY LORD!"

DO YOU SEE THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE TWO?

I don't and I am sure that the Lord does not either. Using the Lord's name in any manner that is not consistent with speaking to Him or calling out to Him is wrong.

STOP IT!

If we have a habit of using the Lord's name in vain, we need to humbly bow before the Lord, confess it as a sin and ask Him for forgiveness.

I pray that the Lord will convict us any time we misuse His name.

BLESSINGS, DEAR HEARTS. WALK WITH GOD TODAY. TRUST HIM COMPLETELY, AND BE A BLESSING!

— **PASTOR CECIL**

P.S. Be sure to check out http://www.pastorcecil.com/

#  DAY 118 (April 28)

# HE'S IN CONTROL!

Matthew 10:29-31

Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father's care. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So don't be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.

Many times we face uncertainty and loss. The things or people we counted upon for our support are not there when we need them. Even when we pray, we feel that the Lord is far from us and does not hear our prayers.

Looking back over the years of my life, I discover that in those times when I felt abandoned and alone, God was the nearest to me. **It was not so important that I felt Him, but that I just kept on doing what His Word said and eventually I found that these times of quietness were preparing me for increased service.**

The more I search the pages of Scripture, the more I find that God's people have not been immune to the dark days of disappointment.

I find myself empathizing with Joseph as he was treated so cruelly by his own brothers. Instead of sulking and feeling sorry for himself, he learned the Egyptian language and became the most valuable servant in Potiphar's house as well as later in the prison.

**EVEN AS PRIME MINISTER TO PHARAOH, HE WAS CUT OFF FROM HIS FAMILY AND HOME.** During the great famine, the opportunity came for Joseph to show vengeance on his brothers who had sold him into slavery.

He realized that his time of tribulation was God's plan. All he had to do was live one day at a time. That is easily said, but hard to do. I want to always practice that in my own life!

HE'S IN CONTROL! MATTHEW 10:29-31

# DAY 119 (April 29)

# I MADE A MISTAKE!

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.

Being thankful is not, or at least it should not be, a rare commodity. As members of God's family we are to be thankful at all times, even when we have made mistakes. It is not our prerogative to choose what we will be thankful for.

In today's Scripture, Paul admonishes the church at Thessalonica (as well as all of us) that we are to **: BE JOYFUL ALWAYS.** It is easy to become defensive and resentful when it is clear that we have been wrong. It is important that we grab hold of Paul's admonition and be joyful that there are friends who care enough about us to correct our errors.

Paul's second admonition is that we are to **: PRAY CONTINUALLY.** Here is another embarrassing question: How is your prayer life? Are you continually speaking to the Lord in prayer?

IT IS A DISCIPLINE THAT WE NEED TO PURSUE.

The last admonition is in line with today's topic. Here is what the Lord expects of us: GIVE THANKS IN ALL CIRCUMSTANCES. Our lives should be different from the world. We grow in grace as we recognize that we need each other. It is like steel sharpening steel. Thanks to all of you who are faithful to keep me true to the Word of God.

1 THESSALONIANS 5:16-18

# DAY 120 (April 30)

# BE GLAD!"

Psalm 118:22-24

"The stone the builders rejected has become the capstone; the Lord has done this, and it is marvelous in our eyes. This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it."

SEVERAL YEARS AGO I EXPERIENCED HARSH REJECTION. THE ONLY REASON FOR WRITING ABOUT IT IS TO GIVE YOU A HOPE AND A CONFIDENCE. EVEN THOUGH YOU MAY BE REJECTED BY MEN, YOU ARE NEVER REJECTED BY OUR HEAVENLY FATHER.

The purpose of my rejection is known only to those who inflicted it. It started with snide remarks and innuendos.

Comments became accusations with no basis, so it was hard to endure.

HAVE YOU EVER BEEN THERE?

False statements were made and I found myself feeling like an animal being pursued by hunters ready for the kill. I WANT TO SAY RIGHT HERE THAT I AM NO PERFECT EXAMPLE.

I make more than my share of mistakes, blunders, and oversights. Some of the comments had elements of truth in them, so I could agree to a point, but taken out of context, they became a pretext.

I pray that there may be one or two of you out there who are able to relate to this, and I hope that this will be God's way of sending you assurance.

I HAD THOSE WHO GAVE ME ASSURANCE DURING MY ORDEAL AND IT WAS A BLESSING.

God was just beginning with us! People came forward to support and stand along beside us. I realized that I was not rejected, but loved and sustained by the Lord. God still continues to surprise us with His new call to exciting ministry.

For well over eleven years now the Lord has given me a ministry to write this Daily-E-Votional which is going out to thousands of people all around the globe.

HERE IS MY CONCLUSION CONCERNING REJECTION:

Jesus was rejected and He was perfect in all ways. Since we are not perfect, we can expect to be rejected or at least not appreciated. When we encounter rejection in our life—whether in the home, at church, at work, or wherever it may be—turn it over to the Lord.

SINCE GOD HAS GIVEN US THIS DAY, BE GLAD AND REJOICE IN IT!

# **DAY 121 (May 1)**

# WALKING IN VICTORY!

Matthew 28:17-20: "When they saw Him, they worshiped Him; but some doubted. Then Jesus came to them and said, 'All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."

In high school I played on the football team, and in my senior year we were very successful—UNDEFEATED, IN FACT. I recall coming home after practice so tired and sore that I could hardly move. All of the hours of exercise and practice, however, resulted in each victory we achieved.

It was rather humorous to hear the shouts of victory from the sidelines, **"WE WON! WE WON!"** Our supporters had not experienced the pain we endured, but they shared the victory. We gladly welcomed their joyful shouts of victory.

On the cross Jesus won the victory over the hold that Satan had over fallen man. The moment His life's blood flowed from His precious innocent body the price was paid for our redemption! It is nothing that we have done or ever could do that won the victory over the enemy...but Jesus gained the victory.

Following His crucifixion, Jesus rose from the tomb and appeared to hundreds of people. Some of His followers identified with His victory, but there were some who doubted. Amazing! He had foretold what He was going to do and He did it!

They still question the reality of His resurrection. I don't want to be a part of that doubting crowd. **I WANT TO BE ONE OF THOSE WHO CHOOSE VICTORY IN JESUS!**

# DAY 122 (May 2)

# FEAR NOT!

Isaiah 41:10

Fear not [there is nothing to fear], for I am with you; do not look around you in terror and be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen and harden you to difficulties, yes, I will help you; yes, I will hold you up and retain you with My [victorious] right hand of rightness and justice. (The Amplified Bible)

There is a lot of fear going around these days. Fear of the failing economy, fear of medical difficulties, fear of what people will think, fear of failing, fear of tomorrow, fear of the unknown—YOU NAME IT—AND WE CAN AND DO DEVELOP A FEARFUL ATTITUDE.

I especially like the way The Amplified Bible uses numerous nuances of the original Hebrew text in order to clarify the meaning. We should read that first phrase over and over again: **FEAR NOT [THERE IS NOTHING TO FEAR], FOR I AM WITH YOU.**

We may want to argue with others that our situation is different and that we really have something to fear, but God says we don't. The reason that we need not fear is that He is with us.

If we go back into the Old Testament and read of the way God delivers His people, we find that He is able to protect and lead. It was only when people rejected His leadership and control of their lives that they faced defeat.

Just think of the way God led His people out of Egypt. He provided a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night. God's presence in the clouds not only gave the direction to travel, it also stood between His people and the enemy.

Trust Him to lead and protect you and you will never need to fear!

# DAY 123 (May 3)

#  GOD'S SECRET TO SUCCESS!

Joshua 1:8

"Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful."

Having the responsibility to lead a congregation of believers is an awesome task. You cannot believe the number of times I reach up to the Lord in prayer for His guidance. Early on I was aware that it was not what I said or how I said it that would make a difference for my people, but what God said and how I made it acceptable to them.

I am sure that there have been times when more of Cecil came through than God's Word. I hang my head in shame when I come to that realization. It makes me want to redouble my effort to get back to the basics of God's Word as the most vital element in the life of the believer.

MANY YEARS AGO I MADE A COVENANT WITH THE LORD THAT I WOULD SPEND AT LEAST FIVE MINUTES EACH DAY READING GOD'S WORD.

It is one thing to preach to people about the necessity of spending quality time in the Bible, but I had to practice it personally. It was not very much, but it established a discipline that resulted in my spending hours reading it. _I also learned to write passages on 3X5 cards and carry them with me. Even for those who are not able to memorize, this practice will input the Word into their heart._

Today's Scripture gives a fantastic promise. _When we place a priority of reading, thinking, and memorizing, God says we will be prosperous and successful._

IF WE WANT TRUE SPIRITUAL MEANING IN OUR LIFE, THIS IS THE ANSWER. I CHALLENGE YOU: READ THE WORD!

# DAY 124 (May 4)

# GOD'S POWER!

Isaiah 41:10

So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.

Isaiah 41:10 was one of the first verses I memorized many years ago. COME TO THINK ABOUT IT, IT MAY VERY WELL BE THE REASON THAT I AM MUCH MORE OF AN OPTIMIST THAN A PESSIMIST. It is not because of my own efforts, it was the Lord that made the difference.

God gives us a tremendous promise in this verse. He promises to strengthen us, to help us and to uphold us. Do you realize what that promise should mean to each of us in our daily walk? **IT MEANS THAT WE CAN CLAIM VICTORY OVER EVERY SITUATION.**

As I read this verse again, I see that our requirement is very minimal. _We are not called upon to do great and mighty works. We do not even have to possess super human abilities._

So what is our part? **WE ARE NOT TO FEAR NOR ARE WE TO BE DISMAYED.** That means we are not to be known for our gloomy outlook on life. God's assurance is that He will strengthen us and uphold us. He is with us and He is our God.

**HOW MUCH DO WE BELIEVE IN GOD AND HIS PRECIOUS PROMISES?** With God in control, we are free to serve Him with love in the confidence that His work is far more important than our comfort.

AS WE FIX OUR EYES ON JESUS, THE THINGS OF THIS WORLD WILL BECOME DIM AND WE WILL EAGERLY LOOK FORWARD TO THE DAY WE WILL BE WITH HIM FOR ETERNITY. WHAT A DAY THAT WILL BE!

# DAY 125 (May 5)

# THROUGH HIM!

Philippians 4:12-13

I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through Him who gives me strength.

Years ago I heard an expression that has stuck with me during some of the most difficult times of my life: ****

I CAN'T—HE CAN—THAT'S ALL I NEED TO KNOW—LET'S GO!

I just wish I practiced that in each and every situation of my life. It is not what I am able to do for the Lord that counts, but what He chooses to do in and through me.

My part is to recognize that all I do spiritually must be done—through Him.

There is an old quote that was attributed to the great American evangelist, D.L. Moody. Some say it was one that he borrowed from someone else, but it is the message that counts:

THE WORLD HAS YET TO SEE WHAT GOD CAN DO WITH AND FOR AND THROUGH AND IN AND BY THE MAN WHO IS FULLY AND WHOLLY CONSECRATED TO HIM. I WILL TRY MY UTMOST TO BE THAT MAN.

The Apostle Paul knew what it was like to experience trials and travails. He was treated like a common criminal and suffered beatings, stoning's, shipwrecks, cold seas, hot deserts, hunger, thirst, and jail.

Those difficulties meant very little to Paul. It did not matter what he had or what he lacked—he simply wanted to be content in knowing he was doing the will of the Lord and in the strength of the Lord.

I WANT THAT TO BE MY PRIMARY GOAL IN THE DAYS I HAVE LEFT BEFORE I MEET THE LORD.

# DAY 126 (May 6)

# WE NEED MORE!

Hebrews 13:5

Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.

Today we hear of young families who live in 2,000 square foot homes wanting something bigger. They have a new baby on the way and there is just not enough room in their present dwelling.

Give me a break!

Back in November 1954, I had just completed Technical School as a jet mechanic. My first assignment was in Rapid City, South Dakota. Joyce and I were very happy and looking forward to a new and exciting adventure.

**WE RENTED FOR A FEW MONTHS BEFORE PURCHASING OUR FIRST HOME— A 24-FOOT TERRY TRAVEL TRAILER.** _That meant that we were living in less than 200 square feet. Within hours my precious wife had that little home on wheels looking like a castle._

I think most of us in the over-the-hill gang can remember living in a house with only one bathroom (if we were lucky), and sharing a bedroom with brothers or sisters. The thought of moving into larger digs was never considered. We were just thankful that we had a place to call home.

In the years since the 1950's, Joyce and I lived in many fine homes and some not so fine. BUT OUR CONTENTMENT DID NOT COME FROM THE SIZE OR CONDITION OF OUR HOME—IT WAS OUR LOVE FOR THE LORD JESUS CHRIST THAT HAS MADE US CONTENT.

The thought suddenly strikes me: The more our love for the Lord grows, the less importance we place on the stuff of life. All of this is going to pass away and we will find that only what we have done for Christ will last.

# DAY 127 (May 7)

# THINK ABOUT IT!

Philippians 4:8

Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.

WE TOO OFTEN REPLACE EXCELLENCE WITH CONVENIENCE, GETTING BY WITH THE LEAST AMOUNT OF EFFORT, TIME, OR COST. AS A RESULT, WE FAIL TO EVER ACHIEVE A STATE OF EXCELLENCE.

We can think of examples in the human family, but why spend the time pulling illustrations from mankind when we can use the life of Jesus Christ as the epitome of excellence, and also as One who is praise worthy.

IN TODAY'S SCRIPTURE, PAUL LISTS FOUR QUALITIES THAT LEAD TO EXCELLENCE AND PRAISEWORTHINESS. LET'S APPLY EACH OF THESE QUALITIES TO THE LIFE AND CHARACTER OF OUR LORD AND SAVIOR, JESUS CHRIST:

  * TRUE: Jesus is true! His Word is true and His actions are true. All that can be known about truth is to be found in Him.

  * NOBLE: The Greek word for noble can be defined as "WELL BORN." It is good to recall the birth of Jesus. He was born of a virgin. That is humanly impossible. He was born of the Holy Spirit. That was the supernatural provision by God to provide the perfect Lamb to be slain for the sins of the world.

  * LOVELY: Jesus was and is lovely. If we are to think of lovely as being pleasing and agreeable, then Jesus is certainly lovely.

  * ADMIRABLE: It seems that the world clamors for bad reports and the media works overtime searching for bad news and then glorifies it. We need to see in Jesus the living example of One who was always worthy of a good report.

HOW IS YOUR THOUGHT LIFE?

ARE YOU GETTING BITTER OR BETTER?

THINK ABOUT THE BAD NEWS AND GET BITTER.

THINK ABOUT JESUS AND GET BETTER!

#  DAY 128 (May 8)

# THIS IS LOVE!

1 John 4:10

This is love: not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.

I ONCE HEARD ABOUT A COUPLE WHO MADE AN APPOINTMENT WITH A MARRIAGE COUNSELOR. THEY HAD BEEN MARRIED FOR FORTY YEARS AND THE COUNSELOR WONDERED WHY THEY WOULD WANT TO TALK TO HIM.

The wife started out by saying that she didn't think her husband loved her—at least he never said he loved her.

When the counselor asked the husband if this were true, he readily agreed.

The husband explained that he told his wife forty years ago that he loved her and that he had not withdrawn that statement. In the husband's mind that 40-year-old declaration was still in effect!

(I think the counselor wanted to bang his head on the desk!)

It is seldom, if ever, that we choose up sides and talk about the meaning of the word love. Many of us think we have a grasp of its meaning, but there is some doubt that we have plumbed the depths of love's true meaning.

HERE IS MY CANDID OBSERVATION:

LOVE IS AN EMOTION.

_The Bible says we are to love and, by its very nature, love needs a positive response to that command. We are prone to love only as long as the person loves us in return. Take that response away and we quickly lose the desire to continue loving_.

Like it or not, we humans are self-centered and preoccupied with ourselves. If you want an example of this, just stop and listen to someone's conversation. Note the way they focus on their own interests and welfare.

ACCORDING TO GOD'S PRECIOUS WORD, WE ARE TO LOVE IN THE SAME WAY THAT JESUS LOVES US.

That means we are to love even when the other person is not lovable.

When you stop to think about it, that is the way God loves us—when we are the most unlovable. It is while we were unlovable sinners that Christ loved us, and it's the unlovable people around us who need us to love them—with Christ's transforming love.

# DAY 129 (May 9)

# TRUE VALUE!

Luke 12:15

"Then He said to them, "Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions."

There once was a man in my congregation who owned an extensive gun collection. I am not that much of a gun nut, but it was an amazing sight to view such a collection worth several thousand dollars.

One day word came that Wayne's home had been burglarized. As you might guess, the only items stolen were the guns that he had collected over many years and with such careful attention to detail.

Driving to his home, I wondered what his response would be to this loss and was prepared to console him. **QUITE FRANKLY, I EXPECTED WAYNE TO BE ANGRY WITH THE INTRUDERS.**

Surprisingly, the robbery victim greeted me at the door with a huge smile and a hearty laugh—he had not held onto this valuable collection as being the most important thing in his life. Even when I asked if the guns were insured, he just grinned. No, they were not insured and there was no way that he would be compensated for the loss. But Wayne did not mourn the loss of such valuable items. His true treasure was laid up in heaven and was waiting for him there

Several years later, after we had moved to another church and he and his wife moved across the state, we heard that Wayne had died. I could just imagine him seeing the true worth of those eternal things that this world can never value **. I can hardly wait to see him some day and rejoice with him in the true value of eternal life with our Lord!**

# DAY 130 (May 10)

# A RENEWED MIND!

Romans 12:2: And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.

It seems that we are more in need of a spiritual renewing of our minds than ever before. The media constantly bombards us with images that are far from what is God honoring and soul edifying.

IN THE PAST WEEK I HAVE HEARD AT LEAST FIVE OR SIX PEOPLE MENTION HOW WICKED AND PERVERSE THINGS IN THE WORLD ARE BECOMING. I AM GENERALLY AN OPTIMISTIC PERSON, BUT IT IS HARDER AND HARDER AND HARDER TO FIND THINGS IN OUR MODERN SOCIETY TO BE POSITIVE ABOUT.

Having expressed myself, I do not mean that we should throw up our hands in despair. The Lord has always given us His reason for hope. That reason is our Lord Jesus Christ. He came to bring life to a sin-sick world, and He is still the answer in our day and age. If Jesus is the answer to renewing our mind, we need to focus our attention on the process of getting the job done.

If someone wants to really know another person, it is not enough to just have a desire to know them—they have to spend time getting as close as possible to the person. It is the same way with Jesus. We renew our mind by reading His Word and spending time speaking with Him in prayer.

My prayer is that we may renew our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. I pray that the world may become illuminated by the presence of the Lord in our life.

# DAY 131 (May 11)

# TRUST HIM!

Isaiah 41:10

Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.

Ages ago I memorized Isaiah 41:10. It was so long ago that I do not recall just how old I was, but it was while I was still a boy. Regardless of when it was, this verse has been a constant source of encouragement in my life. IN THE DARKEST HOURS OF PAIN AND FEAR I HAVE FOUND THAT GOD IS FAITHFUL TO HIS WORD.

I ONCE HEARD SOMEONE RELATE A CYNICALLY HUMOROUS LINE: SOMEONE TOLD ME TO CHEER UP, THAT THINGS COULD BE WORSE. SO I CHEERED UP AND SURE ENOUGH, THINGS DID GET WORSE!

In my many years of experience in counseling people who are discouraged, I have found that the most useless advice is to tell them to cheer up.

But even being aware of this I have often found myself giving this advice. They are not satisfied being this way, but they need an answer that will lead them out of fear and despondency.

**THE SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY GIVES REAL HOPE FOR THE PERSON WHO IS CAPTIVATED BY FEAR OR WHO FIND HIMSELF DESPONDENT**.

Our word of assurance from the Lord is that He is with us and He is our God. That means we are under His mighty hand of protection. There is no need for us to fight the battle ourselves— _He promises here that He will strengthen us, help us, and uphold us with His righteous right hand. That is the hand of strength._

  * You may be facing the giant of a medical diagnosis that seems terminal.

  * You may have just been notified that your employment is terminated.

  * You may have had your heart broken by infidelity.

  * You may be sitting at the bedside of a loved one who has lost their grip on life.

I COULD GO ON AND ON, BUT THE GOOD NEWS IS THAT WE HAVE A SAVIOR IN HEAVEN WHO KNOWS WHAT WE ARE GOING THROUGH AND IS STANDING RIGHT THERE BESIDE US. TRUST HIM!

#  **MOTHERS' DAY IN UNITED STATES**

Mother's Day in the United States is annually held on the second Sunday of May. It celebrates motherhood and it is a time to appreciate mothers and mother figures. Many people give gifts, cards, flowers, candy, a meal in a restaurant or other treats to their mother and mother figures, including grandmothers, great-grandmothers, stepmothers, and foster mothers.

WHAT DO PEOPLE DO?

Many people send cards or gifts to their mother or mother figure or make a special effort to visit her. Common Mother's Day gifts are flowers, chocolate, candy, clothing, jewelry and treats, such as a beauty treatment or trip to a spa. Some families organize an outing for all of their members or hold a special meal at home or in a restaurant. In the days and weeks before Mother's Day, many schools help their pupils to prepare a handmade card or small gift for their mothers.

PUBLIC LIFE

Mother's Day is not a federal holiday. Organizations, businesses and stores are open or closed, just as they are on any other Sunday in the year. Public transit systems run to their normal Sunday schedules. Restaurants may be busier than usual, as some people take their mothers out for a treat.

BACKGROUND

The origins of Mother's Day are attributed to different people. Many believe that two women, Julia Ward Howe and Anna Jarvis were important in establishing the tradition of Mother's Day in the United States. Other sources say that Juliet Calhoun Blakely initiated Mother's Day in Albion, Michigan, in the late 1800s. Her sons paid tribute to her each year and urged others to honor their mothers.

Around 1870, Julia Ward Howe called for Mother's Day to be celebrated each year to encourage pacifism and disarmament amongst women. It continued to be held in Boston for about ten years under her sponsorship, but died out after that.

In 1907, Anna Jarvis held a private Mother's Day celebration in memory of her mother, Ann Jarvis, in Grafton, West Virginia. Ann Jarvis had organized "Mother's Day Work Clubs" to improve health and cleanliness in the area where she lived. Anna Jarvis launched a quest for Mother's Day to be more widely recognized. Her campaign was later financially supported by John Wanamaker, a clothing merchant from Philadelphia.

In 1908, she was instrumental in arranging a service in the Andrew's Methodist Episcopal Church in Grafton, West Virginia, which was attended by 407 children and their mothers. The church has now become the International Mother's Day Shrine. It is a tribute to all mothers and has been designated as a National Historic Landmark.

Mother's Day has become a day that focuses on generally recognizing mothers' and mother figures' roles.

Mother's Day has also become an increasingly important event for businesses in recent years.

This is particularly true of restaurants and businesses manufacturing and selling cards and gift items.

# DAY 132 (May 12)

# PR-I-DE!

1 John 2:15-16

Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not of the Father but is of the world.

PRIDE HAS BEEN THE PREVALENT SIN OF ALL MANKIND SINCE THE GARDEN OF EDEN.

We might even predate it earlier than the creation of Adam and Eve. SATAN WAS CONSUMED WITH A SPIRIT OF PRIDE AND DESIRED TO BE HIGH AND LIFTED UP TO A POSITION OF DIVINITY.

He tempted Eve in the Garden by causing her to believe that the reason she and Adam were not allowed to eat from the Tree of Good and Evil was that they would become like God.

Years ago I heard the story of a pastor who announced to his congregation that he would be starting a series on pride and a call to true humility.

After the first sermon in the series he was met at the door by a little lady who was so pleased with his new series.

She told her pastor that she did not have many gifts or talents, but she was very PROUD of her humility. (It made him want to cry.)

When we stop to analyze the situation, most of us are very preoccupied with ourselves. Our chief aim is to satisfy ourselves.

Even when offering a helping hand to someone else, we want to make sure that we get credit for it.

IN OTHER WORDS, IT IS ALL ABOUT OUR OWN PERSONAL PRIDE, THE BATTLEGROUND OF HUMANITY.

Paul urges us to get our eyes off of the worldly and focus on the spiritual.

Our goal should always be to inquire of the Lord what He is leading us to accomplish.

WE ALSO NEED TO KEEP OUR EYES OPEN TO SEE WHERE HE IS AT WORK AROUND US AND THEN MAKE SURE THAT WE JOIN HIM IN THAT WORK.

# DAY 133 (May 13)

# FAST FORWARD!

James 1:2-3

My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience.

James is one of my favorite books in the Bible. I once memorized the entire book. I hate to confess this, but I have forgotten much of it. _The joy is that, with just a little effort, I can still bring those precious words back to mind._

RECENTLY, I WAS GREATLY IMPRESSED BY A THOUGHT THAT DAVID JEREMIAH SHARED. IT WAS IN REFERENCE TO THE WORDS "...COUNT IT ALL JOY."

I have taught for years that we are to give thanks for everything. It often seems impractical to count it all joy when we are experiencing the tough times of life.

THERE IS AN INTERESTING PASSAGE IN HEBREWS 12:1-3: "let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of god."

As I read these words I am struck by the thought that Jesus endured the cross with joy.

It is clear that the suffering of the cross was anything but joyful. SO WHERE DID THIS JOY THAT CHRIST EXPERIENCED COME FROM?

It came from Him fast forwarding His heart and mind to the glory that was waiting for Him.

An athlete who endures the horrible rigors of training does not find joy in the pain in the stressing of muscles to the breaking point. The joy is in fast forwarding the mind to visualize the race and crossing the finish line as a victor.

I CHOOSE TO COUNT EVERYTHING I ENDURE IN THIS LIFE AS JOY, BECAUSE I FAST FORWARD TO WHAT AWAITS ME AT THE FINISH LINE. EVEN SO, COME QUICKLY LORD JESUS!

#  DAY 134 (May 14)

# JOYFUL PRAYER!

Philippians 1:3-6

I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.

HAVE YOU EVER TAKEN THE TIME TO EXAMINE YOUR PRAYERS IN LIGHT OF THE PRAYERS IN THE BIBLE? I hope you are not as guilty as I am in praying for things that will make my life better, easier, more convenient, and the same for others I have been asked to pray for. All through this wonderful small book of Philippians we are exposed to the prayers that Paul prays for his beloved church in Philippi.

The first thing that stands out is that he prays for the church each and every time he remembers them. Not only that, he seems to go through a mental list in order to pray for them individually as well as the church body as a whole. He may have recalled that night in the jail when an earthquake freed all of the prisoners. The jailer was ready to commit suicide, but Paul stopped him and that night led the jailer and his entire family to the Lord. I am sure they were part of the church he was praying for.

Then comes the power. Paul says he prays with joy. MANY OF OUR PRAYERS ARE MORE LIKE A LEAD WEIGHT INSTEAD OF A HELIUM-FILLED BALLOON. He prays with joy because this beloved church has partnered with him in the spreading of the Gospel. _Not only that, he has joy because the work they are doing for the Lord will bear lasting results until Jesus comes to take His children home. Praise the Lord!_

HOW IS YOUR PRAYER LIFE?

# DAY 135 (May 15)

# LIVE IT!

Philippians 2:12-13

Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose.

One of the most heartbreaking things I have experienced is to receive word that someone who seemed to be a dedicated follower of the Lord Jesus Christ has been living a double standard. THEY TALKED A GOOD TALK AND SEEMED TO WALK AN UPRIGHT AND DEDICATED LIFE, BUT IT WAS JUST A SHAM.

Through the years I have had occasion to be in situations where I have been in close contact with men who are away from home and family. For some it is the first time they have been in this situation and they feel a sense of release to do the sinful things they would never have participated in before. What was the difference? They now felt that there was no one around who knew their spiritual position.

We are well aware that such feelings of release are a lie of Satan. He delights in deceiving believers by whispering in their ears, "No one will ever know." Our life is no Las Vegas where the message is "what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas." This is a lie, for we know that the Holy Spirit is always with us, and He sees and knows what we are doing. He brings conviction to remind us that God hates sin!

Today's Scripture does not imply that we work to achieve salvation. **SALVATION IS BY GRACE THROUGH FAITH.** It is clear when we read the entire passage that Paul is writing to believers. **It is Paul's prayer that all true believers will actively do the works of righteousness so that the Lord will fulfill His good purpose.**

THAT IS MY DESIRE! LET'S LIVE IT!

# DAY 136 (May 16)

# SLIP AND SLIDE!

1 Corinthians 15:56-58

The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.

Back when Joyce and I were young parents (which was so long ago that I can hardly remember that far back), there was a popular kid's toy called a "Slip 'N Slide." It was about twenty feet long and three feet wide. You would roll it out on the lawn and soak it down with water. The kids would get a run and, because of the water, they would be able to slide down it with ease.

To work properly, there was one element that was always required—WATER. If the Slip 'N Slide was not wet, the kids could not slide down the plastic strip. No matter how fast they would run before they landed, the plastic had become totally unyielding and resistant to a slip or a slide.

There is a spiritual application here. It is possible to water down the Word of God to such a degree that we are always on a slippery surface. Not only is it easy to slide through life, it is almost impossible to even stand up without slipping.

The answer is found in today's Scripture. Paul is telling Christians that to be able to stand firm, we are to give ourselves fully to the work of the Lord.

Each of us is called by God to stand firm and sure for Him. We are to live a life of trust under His control. We accomplish this by being in fellowship with Him. We are to spend time reading what He says in His precious word and enjoying fellowship with Him in prayer. **Are you standing firm for the Lord...or are you on a slip and slide?**

# DAY 137 (May 17)

# OUR SOURCE OF JOY!

Philippians 2:17-18: But even if I am being poured out like a drink offering on the sacrifice and service coming from your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you. So you too should be glad and rejoice with me.

Sometimes I have been in services or watched on television as a congregation was led in a chorus of " **There's a Sweet, Sweet Spirit in This Place." One line in that song observes that "there are sweet expressions on each face."**

BEEP! AS MY EYES SCAN THE CROWD, I SEE ONLY A FEW WEARING SWEET EXPRESSIONS ON THEIR FACES. MOST OF THEM LOOK LIKE THEY HAVE JUST BEEN BAPTIZED IN VINEGAR.

I have no idea where certain believers get the idea that being a Christian means always wearing a sour look. It is like asking a person if he just hit his thumb with a hammer and he responds, **"NO, I'M A CHRISTIAN."** **Now that is sad! If anyone should have joy oozing out of each pore, it should be a born again child of God who has been rescued from death to life.**

Paul knew what it was like to endure pain and suffering for the sake of Christ. But rather than having a pity party, he used his situation to rejoice. When he and Silas had first arrived in Philippi, they ended up in prison (Acts 16:15). Instead of being down and out, they sang praises at the top of their lungs. I do not think that was the cause of the earthquake (my singing might cause that), but the Lord used His earthquake to free all of the prisoners. The jailer, his family, and possibly many of the prisoners became members of that church in Philippi.

**NOW PAUL REMINDS THEM AND US THAT WE REJOICE REGARDLESS OF THE CIRCUMSTANCES OF LIFE.** **In fact, the worse things are around us, the more we should literally glow with joy and rejoicing that God is still on the throne! Praise the Lord! He is our source!**

# DAY 138 (May 18)

# LOOKING BEYOND!

Isaiah 64:4

Since ancient times no one has heard, no eye has seen any God besides you, who acts on behalf of those who wait for Him.

I do not possess a scientific mind, but I do have an interest in the scientific world. I was recently watching a program on the construction of a huge and very expensive telescope. When I say expensive, I mean in the multiple million dollar range.

The scientists being interviewed about the project explained that by using this new advanced telescope, they would be able to determine how the universe came into being. (They could read the book of Genesis and save all of the money this project cost.)

Since the time of man's sin against God, he has tried to circumvent God's plan and purpose for His people. Many scientists have devoted their entire lives to discover some "truth" that would prove that there is no God. Some have made wild statements claiming to have discovered this proof only to have their theories explode in the face of new evidence that far more supports the creation model than their man-made theory of evolution.

I choose to look beyond my own limited understanding and simply rest in the truth as presented in God's Word.

WHEN I COME TO THE END OF THIS EARTHLY JOURNEY, I WILL HAVE ALL OF THE ANSWERS I NEED.

Until then I choose to look beyond the foolishness of man and trust in the God who created the heavens and the earth.

#  DAY 139 (May 19)  
BE OF GOOD CHEER!

John 16:33

These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.

I have to confess that I have a problem with so-called faith healers who profit from those who are going through a time of testing.

They leave individuals feeling guilty if they are not healed because their faith is just not strong enough.

Many were healed by Jesus—Lazarus was even raised from the dead—yet all eventually died. So we conclude that healing at best is only temporary this side of eternity.

In today's Scripture we read that Jesus offers good cheer. We fail miserably if we miss the full impact of this passage. The good cheer that Jesus offers comes in the midst of tribulation.

The Greek word for the phrase good cheer is tharseô. Of course, it means good cheer, but it also means to be of good courage.

JESUS USED IT WHEN HE HEALED THE MAN OF PALSY, THE WOMAN WITH AN ISSUE OF BLOOD FOR MANY YEARS, TO HIS DISCIPLES WHEN THEY WERE SCARED OUT OF THEIR SKINS AS THEY SAW HIM WALKING ON THE WATER, AND TO PAUL FOLLOWING HIS ARREST IN JERUSALEM.

Jesus never said that He was going to take His believers out of the storms and trials of life, but that He would be with them during those storms. He offers that for us today.

We never need to go through the conflict alone—He has promised that He would send the Holy Spirit to be with us and support us with victory.

It really does not matter what kind of pain you are experiencing at this very moment, Jesus offers you the most wonderful words of comfort: **"BE OF GOOD CHEER."**

CLAIM IT AS YOUR OWN AT THIS VERY MOMENT. HE WILL BE WITH YOU!

BE OF GOOD CHEER!

# DAY 140 (May 20)

# TOO!

Philippians 4:12-13

I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

On a Sunday morning I was chatting with one of our members before the service. It was a gorgeous sunny morning and he commented how refreshing it would be to hold our service outside in the beautiful sunlight. _I agreed but immediately thought of the complaints of some who would think it was too chilly._

He then remarked that before long it would be our rainy season and it would be too wet to be outside. I laughingly mentioned how often we hear the word too. It is very seldom that we are content with what we have. **IT IS EITHER TOO THIS OR TOO THAT, BUT SELDOM JUST RIGHT.**

As believers we are quick to find fault when things are not exactly to our liking. Listen to what people are saying before and after service and you will hear as much griping and complaining as just about anywhere else. _That term will occur over and over: "It is too..."(you finish the sentence)._

Our contentment does not come from the things this world has to offer. CONTENTMENT IS A CHOICE.

In light of all of the tribulations that Paul (as well as other believers) faced, how could he find contentment? **THE ANSWER IS IN JESUS. PAUL ELOQUENTLY SUMS IT UP: "I CAN DO ALL THINGS THROUGH CHRIST WHO STRENGTHENS ME."**

Praise God that our life can be filled with a sigh of, "IT'S TOO WONDERFUL!"

#  DAY 141 (May 21)

# CONSEQUENCES!

Galatians 6:7-9

Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life. And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.

Joyce and I once had the rich blessing of spending a Sunday afternoon with one of our five great-grandchildren, the only one who lives anywhere close to us.

THE OTHER FOUR LIVE THOUSANDS OF MILES AWAY. SOB! SOB!

At the time, Ruby was just over a year old and had started to walk and learn new words. Three of her new words were hair, hat, and hot. She pronounced all three virtually the same way. She had been talking about her hair and a hat that her grandparents had bought for her.

As I started to brew a pot of coffee, Ruby's dad, Seth, picked her up and walked toward the stove. As they got close he said, "Hot!" Ruby repeated, "Ha!" _During that visit, little Ruby's pronunciation for hat, hair, and hot all sounded the same, but what a difference in meaning and consequence._

AS I LATER THOUGHT ABOUT HER WORDS AND HOW CUTE THEY SOUNDED, I BEGAN TO CONSIDER THE VAST DIFFERENCE BETWEEN ALL THREE.

When asked where her hair or her hat was, Ruby would place her little hand on her head and say, "Ha." She would also say "ha" when near the stove.

Seth mentioned that Ruby had never felt the heat from something hot, but they had been teaching her to stay away from hot stoves.

SHE WAS LEARNING HER LESSON WELL.

The Lord tells us to stay clear of objects in our life that would cause us harm—not to deprive us of pleasure, but to prevent us from suffering the consequences.

YOU MAY HAVE SUFFERED CONSEQUENCES IN YOUR OWN LIFE BECAUSE YOU REFUSED TO OBEY GOD.

Let me just give you this word of admonition: STAY AWAY FROM THE HEAT! THERE ARE CONSEQUENCES INVOLVED!

#  DAY 142 (May 22)

# **GROW UP!**

II Peter 3:17-18

"You therefore, beloved, since you know this beforehand, beware lest you also fall from your own steadfastness, being led away with the error of the wicked; but grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory both now and forever. Amen."

Have you ever noticed that when family or friends gather after being apart for some time, someone will inevitably remark about how much the youngsters have grown? "JOHNNY, YOU ARE GETTING SO BIG!" _How would we feel when someone at the same reunion tells us, "Wow! You have really put on the pounds!" Okay, I will get off this uncomfortable comparison._

The fact of the matter is that we are urged to grow in grace and the knowledge of the Lord. Grace can be defined as God's unmerited favor at Christ's expense. GOD GIVES US HIS FAVOR, YET WE OFTEN IGNORE THE MANIFOLD BLESSINGS HE HAS GIVEN US.

Picture a person that you love very much. You prepare the most expensive gift imaginable and lovingly wrap it in the most beautiful gift wrap you can find. You can hardly wait to see the look on your loved one's face when they open that precious package. THE PROBLEM, HOWEVER, IS THAT THEY LEAVE YOUR HOUSE WITH THE GIFT UNOPENED. _Days, weeks, months, even years later you visit that person and there on the table is your beautiful, expensive gift package...still unwrapped._

We are to open the package of God's gracious gift to us. That means we spend time reading the promises of His Word and appropriating them into our life. Rather than remaining spiritual babes, we are to become strong and mighty for the Lord!

IT IS TIME FOR US TO GROW UP SPIRITUALLY!

# DAY 143 (May 23)

# OUR HOPE!

Acts 2:25b-26

I foresaw the Lord always before my face, for He is at my right hand, that I may not be shaken. Therefore my heart rejoiced, and my tongue was glad; moreover my flesh also will rest in hope.

**I HOPE! I HOPE! I HOPE!** How many times have we heard ourselves or others repeat that phrase concerning something we want very badly? As a young boy I used to whisper it under my breath when sides were being chosen for some type of game. I already knew that I would be at the bottom of the list, so my hope was not based upon an expectation of being selected.

When I was a freshman in high school, my best friend Jerry and I made the football team. We were arguably the worst players there, but at least we were on the team and could travel as part of the team.

One game that season is vividly burned into my memory. We were playing a team from a near-by logging town. THEIR PLAYERS WERE BIGGER, STRONGER, AND BETTER THAN OURS. One by one, our team mates were injured and forced to leave the game. All the while, Jerry and I were sitting at the end of the bench praying, **"I hope! I hope!** _I hope that we are not called by the coach to enter the game. We will be killed!" Our prayers were answered and the game ended before we were called upon._

Listen carefully! THE HOPE THAT WE HAVE IN CHRIST IS A CERTAIN HOPE. In the Greek it is the word elpis. In the spiritual sense it means to have joyful and confident expectation of eternal salvation. NOW I LIKE THAT! IT IS NOT AN EMPTY HUNGERING FOR SOMETHING THAT IS UNLIKELY TO OCCUR. **It is the confidence that we can rejoice in knowing that what is coming is going to be beyond our wildest expectation.**

# DAY 144 (May 24)

#  **THE HOME RUN OF ETERNAL LIFE!**

Proverbs 18:10

The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.

I RECEIVED THE FOLLOWING MESSAGE FROM BILL MORMILE, ONE OF OUR LONG-TIME SUBSCRIBERS WHO LIVES IN FLORIDA. WITH HIS PERMISSION I SEND IT ALONG TO YOU.

THE HOME RUN OF ETERNAL LIFE

As each one of us stands in the batter's box, we search for "The Way" to hit the "Home Run of Eternal Life."

When the fast pitch of this life is thrown our way, we take a swing, the ball is struck, and we head down life's base path towards First.

At First Base you will find a church home. Here you will fellowship with other base runners and learn about His ministry.

At this place you will worship the Lord and feel His grace and forgiveness. You make the turn and quickly head towards Second.

YOU CANNOT HIT THE "HOME RUN OF ETERNAL LIFE" WITHOUT TAGGING SECOND BASE — IT IS IMPOSSIBLE.

By tagging Second Base, you accept Jesus as your life-long Shepherd, your friend, and your Savior.

IF YOU MISS SECOND BASE, YOU WILL BE CALLED "OUT" AT HOME — EVEN THOUGH YOU MAY HAVE TAGGED ALL THE OTHER BASES.

After firmly tagging Second (without any doubt), you quickly scamper down the base path towards Third.

At Third Base you will spend a life time pleasing the One who awaits you at Home Plate by spreading His word, helping others, and participating in His ministry — collecting RBI's you might say.

Finally, you head down life's last base path towards Home Plate. There at Home, with arms wide open, stands the Almighty Umpire of the Universe.

The angels of heaven and all of those who have hit the home run before you are standing on their feet cheering and causing a roar like none other heard before.

AND NOW — ONLY A FEW FEET FROM HOME PLATE — YOU ARE TOTALLY EXHAUSTED, COMPLETELY OUT OF BREATH, AND LOOKING DIRECTLY INTO THE EYES OF THE ALMIGHTY UMPIRE — WHO IN ALL OF TIME HAS NEVER MADE A WRONG CALL.

Your foot hits Home Plate and you stumble forward into His open arms. And then He thunders with a loud voice that shakes both heaven and earth:

"SAFE! SAFE," HE YELLS. YOU'RE SAFE!

# DAY 145 (May 25)

# DO NOT PROVOKE!

Ephesians 6:4

And you, fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath, but bring them up in the training and admonition of the Lord.

The other night I was watching a television program about a village that practiced a subsistence type of lifestyle. Each member of the family was called upon to help provide food to insure survival. It was the time of year that the King Salmon run, and plans were being made to set up the devices to capture as many as possible to provide food during the coming winter months.

The daughter in this family was determined to help provide. She took three friends with her and set out to hunt caribou. It was uncommon for the women to go hunting without having men along.

After some time, the little group of hunters spotted a small herd and the daughter shot the first caribou of her life.

WITH JOY SHE LUGGED THE PRECIOUS MEAT BACK HOME.

As her father approached, you could see the young girl's delight in being able to share with him how she had taken this great step in providing for the family.

INSTEAD OF SHOWERING HER WITH PRAISE, HOWEVER, THE FATHER BERATED HER FOR NOT SHOOTING MORE AND FOR SHOOTING SUCH A SMALL ANIMAL. IT WAS LIKE A SLAP IN HER FACE AND SHE SLUMPED IN DEJECTION.

I fear that many fathers react the same way to the actions of their children.

INSTEAD OF BRINGING THEM UP IN THE NURTURE AND ADMONITION OF THE LORD, THEY QUICKLY FIND FAULT AND DEMONSTRATE A BITTER ATTITUDE.

It may be the reason why so many young people turn their back on God when they are able to make their own choices.

EACH OF US SHOULD COMMIT OURSELVES TO BE ENCOURAGERS THAT NOT ONLY BLESS OUR OWN CHILDREN BUT ALSO THOSE WHO COME FROM HOMES WHERE PRAISE IS MISSING.

# **MEMORIAL DAY HISTORY**

Three years after the Civil War ended, on May 5, 1868, the head of an organization of Union veterans — the Grand Army of the Republic (GAR) — established Decoration Day as a time for the nation to decorate the graves of the war dead with flowers. Maj. Gen. John A. Logan declared that Decoration Day should be observed on May 30. It is believed that date was chosen because flowers would be in bloom all over the country.

The first large observance was held that year at Arlington National Cemetery, across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C.

The ceremonies centered around the mourning-draped veranda of the Arlington mansion, once the home of Gen. Robert E. Lee. Various Washington officials, including Gen. and Mrs. Ulysses S. Grant, presided over the ceremonies. After speeches, children from the Soldiers' and Sailors' Orphan Home and members of the GAR made their way through the cemetery, strewing flowers on both Union and Confederate graves, reciting prayers and singing hymns.

LOCAL OBSERVANCES CLAIM TO BE FIRST

Springtime tributes to the Civil War dead already had been held in various places. One of the first occurred in **Columbus, Miss., April 25, 1866,** when a group of women visited a cemetery to decorate the graves of Confederate soldiers who had fallen in battle at Shiloh. Nearby were the graves of Union soldiers, neglected because they were the enemy. Disturbed at the sight of the bare graves, the women placed some of their flowers on those graves, as well.

Today, cities in the North and the South claim to be the birthplace of Memorial Day in 1866. Both Macon and Columbus, Ga., claim the title, as well as Richmond, Va. The village of Boalsburg, Pa., claims it began there two years earlier. A stone in a Carbondale, Ill., cemetery carries the statement that the first Decoration Day ceremony took place there on April 29, 1866. Carbondale was the wartime home of Gen. Logan. Approximately 25 places have been named in connection with the origin of Memorial Day, many of them in the South where most of the war dead were buried.

OFFICIAL BIRTHPLACE DECLARED

Official Birthplace Declared In 1966, Congress and President Lyndon Johnson declared Waterloo, N.Y., the "birthplace" of Memorial Day. There, a ceremony on May 5, 1866, honored local veterans who had fought in the Civil War. Businesses closed and residents flew flags at half-staff. Supporters of Waterloo's claim say earlier observances in other places were either informal, not community-wide or one-time events.

By the end of the 19th century, Memorial Day ceremonies were being held on May 30 throughout the nation. State legislatures passed proclamations designating the day, and the Army and Navy adopted regulations for proper observance at their facilities.

It was not until after World War I, however, that the day was expanded to honor those who have died in all American wars. In 1971, Memorial Day was declared a national holiday by an act of Congress, though it is still often called Decoration Day. It was then also placed on the last Monday in May, as were some other federal holidays.

SOME STATES HAVE CONFEDERATE OBSERVANCES

Some States Have Confederate Observances Many Southern states also have their own days for honoring the Confederate dead. Mississippi celebrates Confederate Memorial Day on the last Monday of April, Alabama on the fourth Monday of April, and Georgia on April 26. North and South Carolina observe it on May 10, Louisiana on June 3 and Tennessee calls that date Confederate Decoration Day. Texas celebrates Confederate Heroes Day January 19 and Virginia calls the last Monday in May Confederate Memorial Day.

Gen. Logan's order for his posts to decorate graves in 1868 "with the choicest flowers of springtime" urged: "We should guard their graves with sacred vigilance. ... Let pleasant paths invite the coming and going of reverent visitors and fond mourners. Let no neglect, no ravages of time, testify to the present or to the coming generations that we have forgotten as a people the cost of a free and undivided republic."

The crowd attending the first Memorial Day ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery was approximately the same size as those that attend today's observance, about 5,000 people. Then, as now, small American flags were placed on each grave — a tradition followed at many national cemeteries today. In recent years, the custom has grown in many families to decorate the graves of all departed loved ones.

The origins of special services to honor those who die in war can be found in antiquity. The Athenian leader Pericles offered a tribute to the fallen heroes of the Peloponnesian War over 24 centuries ago that could be applied today to the 1.1 million Americans who have died in the nation's wars: "Not only are they commemorated by columns and inscriptions, but there dwells also an unwritten memorial of them, graven not on stone but in the hearts of men."

To ensure the sacrifices of America's fallen heroes are never forgotten, in December 2000, the U.S. Congress passed and the president signed into law "The National Moment of Remembrance Act," P.L. 106-579, creating the White House Commission on the National Moment of Remembrance. The commission's charter is to "encourage the people of the United States to give something back to their country, which provides them so much freedom and opportunity" by encouraging and coordinating commemorations in the United States of AMERICA, Memorial Day and the National Moment of Remembrance.

The National Moment of Remembrance encourages all Americans to pause wherever they are at 3 p.m. local time on Memorial Day for a minute of silence to remember and honor those who have died in service to the nation.

As Moment of Remembrance founder Carmella LaSpada states: "IT'S A WAY WE CAN ALL HELP PUT THE MEMORIAL BACK IN MEMORIAL DAY."

# DAY 146 (May 26)

# GLEEFUL GIVING!

1 Chronicles 29:9

Then the people rejoiced, for they had offered willingly, because with a loyal heart they had offered willingly to the Lord; and King David also rejoiced greatly.

A few days ago I was talking on the phone with a young woman who had a new job. Due to health problems she had not been able to work for a considerable time. **She had just received her first pay check and was thrilled she would be able to give her tithe the next Sunday.**

NOW I HAVE BEEN IN THE PASTORAL MINISTRY FOR MANY YEARS AND CAN ATTEST THAT THERE ARE FAR MORE GRUDGING GIVERS THAN GLEEFUL GIVERS.

I only wish that more people had the same response toward honoring God with their giving as did this precious young woman.

There is no question about the fact that we are to give to the Lord. All through God's Word we are instructed about bringing our tithes and offerings to the Lord.

This began with Cain and Abel back in Genesis. It continues all through the New Testament where Paul tells us in _2 Corinthians 9:6-7: "But this I say: He who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver."_

THAT IS A PERFECT DESCRIPTION OF GLEEFUL GIVING.

It is not a matter of giving because some preacher said to give, but it is a vital part of our worship to the Lord.

I FIND IT DIFFICULT TO SAY THAT I AM TOTALLY COMMITTED TO CHRIST AND THEN FAIL TO HONOR HIM WITH MY GIVING.

I GIVE HIM MY LIFE AND I WANT HIM TO HAVE CONTROL OF ALL I POSSESS. I CHOOSE TO BE A GLEEFUL GIVER!

#  DAY 147 (May 27) VALUABLES!

Matthew 6:19-21

Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

It is sad to observe people work themselves into a frenzy trying to amass a nest egg that will provide them with ease and luxury when they retire. The problem is that many work so hard with such singleness of heart that they destroy their closest relationships and sacrifice those closest to them in their frantic efforts.

Occasionally we hear about a famous and wealthy person who becomes so despondent when their fortune slips away that they resort to suicide. The things of this world will always fail to bring the contentment that so many pursue so passionately.

Jesus was well aware of the fickle nature of the human heart. He knew that wealth never brings peace and harmony. SOLOMON WAS A CLASSIC EXAMPLE OF HOW CHEAP AND HOLLOW THE ACCUMULATION OF WORLDLY RICHES REALLY IS. He seemed to have it all but concluded that it was all vanity.

**Jesus teaches us that we are not to devote our efforts to attain the things of this world that will vanish.** The Lord will provide us with what we actually need, and when we surrender our will to find and follow His will, we will lay up treasures in heaven that will last for eternity. **TREASURE IN HEAVEN EQUALS PEACE HERE BELOW.**

# DAY 148 (May 28)

# ENCOURAGING!

Hebrews 3:12-13

Beware, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief in departing from the living God; but exhort one another daily, while it is called "Today," lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.

**I HAVE DETERMINED THAT I HAVE THE SPIRITUAL GIFT OF EXHORTATION OR ENCOURAGEMENT**. That means that it is natural for me to devote myself to being a cheerleader for those around me who are living for Christ.

When I was in high school I enjoyed playing football. One evening after our practice, several of our players went to the practice field of the large high school in our city. They were a powerhouse in their league, which was many levels higher than ours.

I vividly recall their coach, "Babe" Brown, exhorting his team. One of the players had just failed in a blocking assignment and the ball carrier was tackled. Coach Brown ran along side of the errant blocker and yelled at the top of his lungs, **"Son, if you can't block for him, at least clap your hands and cheer him along!" IT WAS A REAL PUTDOWN.**

Spiritually we may not be the person designated to carry the ball. We may have the assignment to clear the way for someone else. The best way to do that is to have a spirit of encouragement. You do not need the spiritual gift of encouragement to be an encourager. _Make the way of faith easier for others by cheering them along._

# DAY 149 (May 29)

# **DIRECTIONS!**

Genesis 24:48-49

"And I bowed my head and worshiped the Lord, and blessed the Lord God of my master Abraham, who had led me in the way of truth to take the daughter of my master's brother for his son. Now if you will deal kindly and truly with my master, tell me. And if not, tell me, that I may turn to the right hand or to the left."

I once was asked to officiate at a wedding in a large city. The venue where the wedding was to take place had been in use earlier that day, so we could not have a rehearsal. I had left in plenty of time (or so I thought) to locate the building. Unfortunately, the directions just happened to have omitted one left turn, which made them useless.

If you have ever been in a strange city trying to find your way to an unknown destination, you need help. TIME AFTER TIME I WOULD STOP AND ASK FOR DIRECTIONS ONLY TO BE TOLD THAT THEY HAD NEVER HEARD OF THE PLACE. I finally located the building and found that we were going to be starting late because others could not find their way either.

In today's Scripture, Abraham's servant had been sent on a special mission to go to the land of his master's family to select a bride for Isaac, Abraham's son _. He had no idea how to find the right one, so he prayed for God's direction._ It would be the young woman who would offer him a drink and also to water his camels.

THE TEST DID NOT SEEM LIKE VERY MUCH, BUT IT DEMONSTRATED A COMPLETE TRUST IN GOD TO LEAD HIM TO THE CORRECT MAIDEN. _Rebecca was God's choice and He led the servant to complete his mission. When we have decisions to make, it is always wise to pray for the Lord to guide us. He will never fail if we keep our eyes on Him._

# DAY 150 (May 30)

# PURPOSE!

Luke 1:16-17: And he will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. He will also go before Him in the spirit and power of Elijah, 'to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children,' and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just, to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.

As a school boy, even into my high school years, I never imagined that God could use me in the manner He has. I am sure that I started school too early, and as a result, I was always out of step with the others. I BELIEVED THEM WHEN THEY SAID I WAS A REMEDIAL STUDENT. To me that meant that I was a dummy and fit for only a menial occupation. In the 11th grade I was confronted with the reality that I could use this brain of mine. I am still the same ordinary kid, but God has revealed to me that He has a unique purpose for each of us.

In today's Scripture, four hundred years of silence was broken and now an obscure priest from the hill country of Judea was the recipient of a Divine revelation. It was made by none other than the archangel, Gabriel.

He announced that this old couple, Zacharias and Elizabeth, were going to have a son and his name was to be John. Gabriel bridged that gap from the Old Testament book of Malachi and told Zacharias that this special son would be given the spirit of Elijah. He would lead a dramatic revival of spirituality, but even a greater purpose would be to announce the arrival of the promised Messiah, Jesus of Nazareth. Think of it. **BEFORE HE WAS EVER BORN HIS PURPOSE WAS GIVEN!**

I am convinced that the Lord has a purpose for each of us. You may feel that you lack the requirements to be used of God, but that is none of your business _. It is God's business and all you and I have to do is find God's purpose for each and every day and then walk in expectancy._ **GO FOR IT!!**

# DAY 151 (May 31)

# ENTER WITH VICTORY!

Psalm 100:4-5

Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His name. For the Lord is good; His mercy is everlasting, and His truth endures to all generations.

WORLD WAR II ENDED WHEN I WAS ELEVEN YEARS OLD. I can recall the absolute joy in the celebrations that erupted with the news that the war had ended. **People that were too old or (like me) too young to participate in the war, still celebrated as if we had been on the front lines of the battle.**

It was several years later that I was blessed to meet three Japanese students who were attending college in Nampa, Idaho. These beautiful Christian students had a glow and joy that transcended the horrors of war; they taught us that God is able to end the battles in this world and prepare us for the joy that awaits us in heaven.

It is fascinating to observe the difference in people who have gone through times of trial. Some have developed a bitter and resentful spirit. To me it signifies that they are still fighting the battles that overwhelmed them in the first place.

Then there are the real examples of victorious saints. Rather than being overcome by the trials and tribulations of life, they have allowed the Holy Spirit to empower them. THEY ENTER THE PRESENCE OF THE LORD AS TRUE VICTORS. They are thankful about trials that others see as defeats. _They rejoice that the Lord is beside them and become an example to all of us._

I hope you are part of this crowd of witnesses!

# DAY 152 (June 1)

# COMPROMISE!

1 Corinthians 16:13-14

Watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong. Let all that you do be done with love.

I want to share with you that in the past few days I have been forced to compromise. While this is a confession, it deserves an explanation. NO, I HAVE NOT NOR WILL I EVER COMPROMISE THE ESSENTIAL TENETS OF THE FAITH OR MY WALK WITH THE LORD, BUT IT HAS TO DO WITH THE CREATION OF THE DAILY-E-VOTIONAL.

It seems like I have been fighting a battle for the past several years that I simply cannot win. It has to do with the creation of the text that I send to our Internet Service Provider, Reach ONE Internet. They have been a tremendous blessing to this ministry for well over ten years now.

The problem has to do with certain punctuation marks. Quotation marks, apostrophes, and other characters appear to some of the recipients as garbled symbols. Try as we might, the problem remains. As a last resort I have determined to phrase things in such a manner that these offending symbols will not be used. THAT IS WHERE I HAVE MADE THE COMPROMISE.

_Sadly, there are far too many believers who compromise in the critical area of their walk with the Lord._ Things of the spiritual realm that once were a vital part of their walk have been compromised to the point that they no longer exist **. IF YOU HAVE BEEN COMPROMISING IN THIS MANNER, I URGE YOU TO CONFESS YOUR SIN AND RETURN TO GOD.**

# DAY 153 (June 2)

# TRUST!

Psalm 51:10-11

Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Do not cast me away from Your presence, and do not take Your Holy Spirit from me.

Have you ever wondered who you count on to do what they have promised to do? **LET ME ASK A MORE PENETRATING QUESTION.**

Have you ever made a commitment to someone and after days, weeks, or even months, realize that you have failed to follow through? You have betrayed your trust, my friend!

It is a serious thing to violate your promise to those around you, but what about promises to the Lord? What promises have you made to Him that you have failed to keep? That is a question that I try to apply to myself as often as possible.

**I MUST CONFESS THAT THERE HAVE BEEN TIMES I HAVE HAD TO HANG MY HEAD IN SHAME AND ASK THE LORD TO FORGIVE MY FAILURE.** It is easy to see the faults of others while at the same time ignoring my own shortcomings. I think that the more easily we find fault in others, the easier it is to overlook the lack of trust in our own lives.

There have been many times that people have disappointed me by saying one thing and then doing another. IT HAS HURT AND CAUSED ME TO FEEL BETRAYED. _My battleground is taking my hurt to the foot of the cross and understanding how those closest to Jesus betrayed His trust._

But thank the Lord, they renewed their commitment and, after the resurrection, were even able to give their lives rather than betray their trust once again.

WITH THE HELP OF THE LORD, THAT IS THE KIND OF TRUST I SEEK FOR MYSELF.

# DAY 154 (June 3)

# RESTORING WALLS!

Nehemiah 4:6

So we built the wall, and the entire wall was joined together up to half its height, for the people had a mind to work.

As we read these words, it is important to understand that Ezra had returned at an earlier time and rebuilt the temple in Jerusalem. Only a remnant returned with Ezra, but even so, his group had rebuilt the temple. They faced oppression and conflict with the people living in that area, many of whom were transplants and not the original settlers. They were squatters in a land that did not belong to them (much like the Palestinians in modern day Israel).

Word had reached Nehemiah that the walls of Jerusalem were broken down and the people were disheartened. He prayed to the Lord and appealed to the king for permission to return and rebuild the walls for stability and protection from the enemies of Israel. God heard his prayer and the king allowed Nehemiah to return and build the walls.

There was considerable opposition from their enemies, but God was in control and gave the people strength to restore the walls. It was not just building that was required, but the people had to be armed and ready to defend themselves from the enemy that threatened them.

**QUESTION TIME!**

_Which walls need rebuilding in your life?_

  * Walls that give stability and meaning to your life?

  * Who are the enemies who oppose you?

  * What are your weapons against these foes?

NEHEMIAH ENCOURAGED THE PEOPLE BY REMINDING THEM OF WHO THEIR GOD WAS AND HOW GREAT AND MIGHTY IS HIS NAME.

We need to keep that in our mind as well.

We serve a God who is above all of our adversaries!

WE NEED TO BEGIN LIVING AS MORE THAN CONQUERORS!

#  DAY 155 (June 4)

# GOD HAS PLANS!

Jeremiah 29:11

For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

During church service on Sunday, one of our members was reflecting about how we have had experiences where God has stepped in and revealed Himself in a way that resolved our problems. THEN ONLY A SHORT TIME LATER WE WILL TRY TO HANDLE OUR PROBLEMS IN OUR OWN STRENGTH INSTEAD OF ALLOWING HIM TO MEET OUR NEED.

**Many people seem to have an erroneous view of the Lord. They see Him as a God that is vindictive and eager to find a fault in our lives in order to punish us.** THEY FAIL TO SEE THE LOVE OF GOD AND THE PROVISION OF GOD. _Like Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden, they hide from God rather than running to Him for salvation and comfort._

THE LORD KNOWS WHAT LIES AHEAD FOR US. HE WILL NEVER LEAVE US NOR FORSAKE US. IN THE MOST DISASTROUS TIMES OF OUR LIFE HE IS THERE BESIDE US GIVING US A FUTURE AND A HOPE, REGARDLESS OF HOW HOPELESS THE SITUATION MAY SEEM.

  1. What is the greatest ordeal in your future?

  2. Are you trying to deal with it in your own strength?

God promises us that He is the One who gives us strength for each and every day. He loves us and has a wonderful plan for our life. **ARE YOU ACTIVELY SEEKING TO DISCOVER THAT PLAN AND PURPOSE THAT HE HAS DESIGNED JUST FOR YOU?**

#  DAY 156 (June 5)

# TEMPORARY PLEASURE!

Hebrews 11:25-26

Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God than to enjoy the passing pleasures of sin, esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt; for he looked to the reward.

The pleasures of sin (if we might call them that) come with a huge price tag. Over the years I have counseled many people who yielded to the siren call of temptation and paid the price that was far more than they expected.

Satan has a deceitful way of making things seem so enticing and appealing that it leads the unwise to indulge. IT STARTED IN THE GARDEN OF EDEN WHEN HE TEMPTED ADAM AND EVE TO VIOLATE THE COMMAND OF GOD NOT TO EAT OF THE FORBIDDEN FRUIT.

We have no idea what kind of fruit it was and it really makes no difference. The issue was not the type of fruit, but that God had said that they were not to taste of the fruit. In like manner, the Holy Spirit gives conviction about yielding to certain temptations. When we hear His voice and know it is wrong, we need to run, not walk, away from tempting fruit.

What is the temptation you are encountering? Get away from it as fast as your feet can carry you. IF YOU HAVE ALREADY YIELDED TO THE TEMPTATION, GO TO THE LORD AND CONFESS YOUR SIN. Turn away from the thing that consumes you and fill your heart and mind with the living Word of God. **GOD DOES NOT WANT TO PUNISH; HE WANTS TO FORGIVE THE SINCERE REPENTANT HEART.**

# DAY 157 (June 6)

# OUR POWERFUL GOD!

Isaiah 41:10

Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.

Today's verse is one of the first I ever memorized. I have leaned on it many times through the years. Come to think of it, my trust in this verse may very well be the reason that I can be more optimistic than pessimistic...and it is only the Lord that makes the difference.

God gives us a tremendous assurance in this verse. He promises to strengthen us, to help us, and to uphold us. Do you realize what that promise should mean to each of us in our daily walk? It means that we can claim victory over every situation.

As I study this verse again, I see that our requirement is very minimal. WE ARE NOT CALLED UPON TO DO GREAT AND MIGHTY WORKS. WE DO NOT EVEN HAVE TO POSSESS SUPER-HUMAN ABILITIES.

**SO WHAT IS OUR PART?** To not fear and to not be dismayed. The reason our Scripture gives us for not fearing or not being dismayed is that God is with us and He is our own personal God. **WITH SUCH A POWERFUL GOD IN CONTROL, WE ARE FREE TO PRAISE HIM AND GIVE HIM THE GLORY EVEN BEFORE WE SEE HIS COMPLETED WORK.**

# DAY 158 (June 7)

# UNDER AUTHORITY!

Luke 2:51-52: Then He went down with them and came to Nazareth, and was subject to them, but His mother kept all these things in her heart. And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men.

Years ago I worked for an unforgettable character who served as the Juvenile Court Judge in our county. Since I was the one and only Juvenile Probation Officer, I had close contact with Judge Ben Riordan.

The Judge once shared with me about the problem one of his sons had in submitting to parental authority. WHEN THE TEENAGER SECURED A JOB AND BEGAN TO EARN HIS OWN MONEY, HE INCREASINGLY RESISTED THE ESTABLISHED RULES OF THE HOUSE, EVEN COMING CLOSE TO BEING DISRESPECTFUL.

To deal with the problem, Judge Ben explained to his rebellious son that since he was earning his own money he could now buy his own food. That meant that he would not be allowed to eat at home with the family until he changed his attitude and came under the authority of his parents. For about two weeks the boy ate his meals away from home, but soon learned that much of his salary was going to pay for food. HE MADE HIS APOLOGIES AND WAS ONCE AGAIN RESTORED TO THE GOOD GRACES OF THE FAMILY.

Sometimes we get away from God's authority and feel that we are able to make it on our own. How foolish! It does not work that way and our continued rebellion makes us miserable to ourselves and others. It is time to come home and make the Lord the leader of our life.

#  DAY 159 (June 8)

# TENTH COMMANDMENT!

Exodus 20:17

You shall not covet your neighbor(s) house; you shall not covet your neighbor(s) wife, nor his male servant, nor his female servant, nor his ox, nor his donkey, nor anything that is your neighbor(s).

THE TENTH COMMANDMENT IS THE ONE THAT DEALS WITH COVETOUSNESS —A CONDITION THAT AFFLICTS MANY HEARTS. When I was a Juvenile Probation Officer I witnessed a certain repetitive behavior: **NO MATTER IF IT WAS CASH, COMPUTER, CAR, OR WHATEVER, THE LAWBREAKER WOULD SEE IT, COVET IT, STEAL IT, AND MOST OFTEN HIDE IT.**

It is no coincidence that we see the same pattern in Scripture. In Joshua 7 we read the tragic saga of Achan, a man who kept plunder from Jericho in direct violation of what God had commanded. When the lot fell upon him, he finally confessed that he had seen these wonderful items (a garment, silver, gold) and had desired them, took them, then buried them. HE AND HIS FAMILY PAID THE ULTIMATE PRICE.

Many years later, King David peered over the walls of his palatial home, saw Bathsheba bathing, lusted for her, took her into his bed, then tried to hide his sin by arranging for her unsuspecting husband, Uriah, to be killed in battle.

HOW ARE WE TO DEAL WITH THIS TENDENCY TO COVET AND THUS VIOLATE THE TENTH COMMANDMENT? PAUL GIVES US THE ANSWER IN _ALWAYS_ OBEY THE LORD!

# DAY 160 (June 9)

# IF I WERE THE DEVIL!

Ephesians 6:10-11

Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.

I always enjoyed listening to the late Paul Harvey on the radio. His comments were so penetrating and direct that it seemed as if he knew where we all lived.

IT WAS 50 YEARS AGO THAT HE DELIVERED THE FOLLOWING MESSAGE THAT SEEMS SOMEHOW PROPHETIC.

IF I WERE THE DEVIL BY PAUL HARVEY   
(BROADCAST APRIL 3, 1965)

If I were the devil . . . if I were the Prince of Darkness, I'd want to engulf the whole world in darkness, and I would have a third of its real estate and a fourth of its population, but I wouldn't be happy until I had seized the ripest apple on the tree . . . THEE!

So I'd set about however necessary to take over the United States. I'd subvert the churches first. I'd begin a campaign of whispers. With the wisdom of a serpent I would whisper to you as I whispered to Eve: "Do as you please." To the young, I would whisper that the Bible is a myth. I would convince them that man created God instead of the other way around. I would confide that what is bad is good, and what is good is "square."

AND THE OLD I WOULD TEACH TO PRAY AFTER ME: "OUR FATHER, WHICH ART IN WASHINGTON." AND THEN I'D GET ORGANIZED.

I'd educate authors in how to make lurid literature exciting so that anything else would appear dull and uninteresting. I'd threaten TV with dirtier movies and vice versa. I'd peddle narcotics to whom I could. I'd sell alcohol to ladies and gentlemen of distinction. I'd tranquilize the rest with pills.

If I were the devil, I'd soon have families at war with themselves, and churches at war with themselves, and nations at war with themselves, until each in its turn was consumed. And with promises of higher ratings, I'd have mesmerizing media fanning the flames.

If I were the devil, I would encourage schools to refine young intellects but neglect to discipline emotions—just let those run wild, until before you knew it, you'd have to have drug sniffing dogs and metal detectors at every schoolhouse door. Within a decade, I'd have prisons overflowing. I'd have judges promoting pornography.

Soon I could evict God from the courthouse, and then from the schoolhouse, and then from the houses of Congress. And in his own churches I would substitute psychology for religion and deify science.

I would lure priests and pastors into misusing boys and girls and church money.

If I were the devil, I'd make the symbol of Easter an egg and the symbol of Christmas a bottle. If I were the devil, I would take from those who have and I would give to those who wanted, until I had killed the incentive of the ambitious.

And what will you bet I couldn't get whole states to promote gambling as a way to get rich. I would caution against extremes in hard work, in patriotism, in moral conduct.

I would convince the young that marriage is old-fashioned, that swinging is more fun, that what you see on TV is the way to be, and thus I could undress you in public, and I could lure you into bed with diseases for which there is no cure.

In other words, if I were the devil, I'd just keep right on doing what he's doing!

PUT ON THE WHOLE ARMOUR OF GOD Ephesians 6:10-11

# DAY 161 (June 10)

# BE CONTENT!

Hebrews 13:5

Let your conduct be without covetousness; be content with such things as you have. For He Himself has said, I will never leave you nor forsake you.

WHAT IS REALLY IMPORTANT IN YOUR LIFE? WHEN ALL IS SAID AND DONE, WHAT CAN YOU COUNT AS YOUR MOST VALUABLE POSSESSION? There are people who live in massive and opulent homes that cost millions of dollars. It would be easy to think that they have reached the pinnacle of satisfaction, but that is usually not the case. These people are most likely to be miserable.

On the other extreme are those who live in humble dwellings that are in low income neighborhoods. Some who reside there spend considerable time and effort day dreaming about living in the homes of the rich and powerful.

Lack of contentment can be expressed in numerous ways. _Some people are never satisfied with their employment, their marriage partner, their appearance, their abilities, or any number of factors that are common to the human existence._ **LET'S FACE IT—WE COVET THE THINGS OR QUALITIES THAT OTHERS POSSESS. EVEN SOME PASTORS COVET LARGER CHURCHES OR LARGER MINISTRIES.**

God calls us to find our true value in Him. He leads us and directs us in the path He has chosen for us. The path may be steep or rocky, but it is the wonderful way God has chosen to allow us to shine brightly in a world of sin.

Rest in the contentment that God knows what He is doing, and by finding joy in your present situation, you may be a true minister of the Lord Jesus Christ.

# DAY 162 (June 11)

# THOUGHTS AND WAYS!

Isaiah 55:8-9

For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways, says the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts.

When I was in high school I worked with my dad and brother to build a house. Being an immature teen, I would sometimes make a glaring mistake.

I remember one such incident and my dad said, **"HONESTLY, SON, SOMETIMES I WONDER WHY YOU WERE EVER BORN!"** I just grinned and sassily replied, **"WELL, DAD, ACCIDENTS HAPPEN!"**

He was quick to chastise my remark and assure me that I had certainly been no accident. I deeply regretted my comments and never asked him to explain!

AS A MATTER OF FACT, NONE OF US ARE HERE BY ACCIDENT!

I am firmly convinced that God has a plan and purpose for each one of us.

WE MAY NOT HAVE THE SAME TALENTS, GIFTS, OR OPPORTUNITIES, BUT WE HAVE A UNIQUE PURPOSE THAT GOD HAS DESIGNED FOR US.

There are two words in the today's Scripture that grab my attention. The first word is thought. It is from the Hebrew word machashabah; it also indicates a distinct plan and purpose.

I am once again struck by the reality that God is never surprised about where we are and what is happening around us. He is in complete control and has us there for a purpose—HIS PURPOSE!

The second word is way. In the Hebrew it is the word derek and conveys the meaning of being a path, direction or course of life.

I love the idea that each and every one of us has a course that is set out before us.

WE HAVE NOT BEEN THIS WAY BEFORE AND THE WAY MAY SEEM UNFAMILIAR TO US, BUT THANK GOD, HE GOES BEFORE US AND HASSET THE COURSE. ALL WE HAVE TO DO IS KEEP OUR EYES ON HIM AND FOLLOW.

#  DAY 163 (June 12)

# FORGIVE ME!

Ephesians 4:31-32

Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice. And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.

Most Christians eagerly accept the wonderful truth that God forgives sinners. Even those who are guilty of terrible crimes have bowed before the Lord and confessed their sins. GOD GRACIOUSLY FORGIVES THEM, NOT BECAUSE OF WHAT THEY HAVE DONE OR NOT DONE, BUT BECAUSE OF WHAT HE HAS DONE TO PROVIDE FORGIVENESS.

If we were to ask these Christians if a terrible sinner had been forgiven, they would almost certainly respond in the affirmative. They rejoice in a God who loves the sinner so much that He sent His Son to pay the price for our sin.

Well, we are going along pretty well up to this point. Evil people can have their sins forgiven and we rejoice with them. But at this point we stop and consider those who have sinned against us. They have broken our trust and, at the same time, they have broken our heart. Rather than forgiving them, we tend to place them on probation and impose restrictions on them.

ARE YOU READY FOR THIS?

Refusing to forgive those who repent and ask us for our forgiveness says that we accept God's forgiveness for ourselves but deny that same forgiveness to others.

That is sad! We are told to forgive others the way the Lord has forgiven us. Are you doing so? I pray that you are.

#  DAY 164 (June 13)

# FIRST IMPRESSIONS!

1 Peter 3:15

But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear.

I sat across the desk from a large and overbearing man who was interviewing me for a position with the Idaho Law Enforcement Planning Commission. I knew very little about the agency and my previous experience in the field of criminal justice was tainted with memories of low pay and long hours...SO I WAS NOT REALLY PROJECTING MY BEST QUALITIES. IN OTHER WORDS, I WAS NOT MAKING MY BEST FIRST IMPRESSION.

But when the director of the agency mentioned the salary and duties that went with the position I was applying for, my interest perked up. _At the same time my heart sank as I suddenly realized I had squandered my opportunity to make a good first impression._

**My demeanor immediately changed and I began to promote the skills and experience that I felt qualified me for the work. After another forty-five minutes of the interview, they offered the job to me and I accepted.** _Believers tend to forget that we are constantly making first impressions._

The things others see in our actions and words influence not only what they think of us, but what they think about the Lord Jesus Christ. **IT HAS BEEN SAID MANY TIMES BEFORE THAT THE JESUS THEY SEE IN US MAY BE THE ONLY JESUS THEY WILL EVER SEE.** **ARE YOU MAKING A GOOD FIRST IMPRESSION FOR HIM?**

#  DAY 165 (June 14) FLAG DAY

# NOTHING!

Galatians 2:20

I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.

A visiting minister had just preached a dynamic message on being empty of self and totally committed to God.

Following the message, a woman approached and requested that he pray for her to become "nothing."

The minister, being a courageous and faithful servant, looked the woman straight in the eye and told her to take by faith the fact that she was nothing!

HIS ANSWER WAS NOT TO PUT HER DOWN, BUT RATHER TO SHOW THAT WITHOUT CHRIST WE ARE INDEED NOTHING. When we get our pride and self-sufficiency out of the way, Christ is able to do His work in and through us.

I once heard Major Ian Thomas relate his own experience in this area. AS A YOUNG MAN WHO HAD RECEIVED JESUS AS HIS PERSONAL SAVIOR, HE WANTED TO PLEASE THE LORD...SO HE WORKED AND WORKED, DOING EVERYTHING HE COULD TO MAKE THAT HAPPEN. One Sunday evening, after finishing a week of assisting in a series of meetings, he had worked late into the night packing up books, Bibles, and other materials.

Finally returning to his hotel room, an exhausted Thomas was ready to abandon his calling to preach. He expected the Lord to be disappointed in him for quitting, but just the opposite happened.

IT WAS AS THOUGH THE LORD TOLD THOMAS THAT HE NEEDED TO GET HIS AMBITION OUT OF THE WAY SO HE (GOD) COULD WORK THROUGH HIM (THOMAS).

Major Thomas went on to be a worthy servant of the Lord Jesus Christ around the world.

**ARE YOU WEARING YOURSELF OUT TRYING TO PLEASE THE LORD?**

I implore you to give up trying to earn your salvation. Listen to Him, then do what He asks you to do.

#  **THE HISTORY OF FLAG DAY**

The Fourth of July was traditionally celebrated as America's birthday, but the idea of an annual day specifically celebrating the Flag is believed to have first originated in 1885.

BJ Cigrand, a schoolteacher, arranged for the pupils in the Fredonia, Wisconsin Public School, District 6, to observe June 14 (the 108th anniversary of the official adoption of The Stars and Stripes) as 'Flag Birthday'.

In numerous magazines and newspaper articles and public addresses over the following years, Cigrand continued to enthusiastically advocate the observance of June 14 as 'Flag Birthday', or 'Flag Day'.

On June 14, 1889, George Balch, a kindergarten teacher in New York City, planned appropriate ceremonies for the children of his school, and his idea of observing Flag Day was later adopted by the State Board of Education of New York.

On June 14, 1891, the Betsy Ross House in Philadelphia held a Flag Day celebration, and on June 14 of the following year, the New York Society of the Sons of the Revolution, celebrated Flag Day.  
Following the suggestion of Colonel J Granville Leach (at the time historian of the Pennsylvania Society of the Sons of the Revolution), the Pennsylvania Society of Colonial Dames of America on April 25, 1893 adopted a resolution requesting the mayor of Philadelphia and all others in authority and all private citizens to display the Flag on June 14th.

Leach went on to recommend that thereafter the day be known as 'Flag Day', and on that day, school children be assembled for appropriate exercises, with each child being given a small Flag.

Two weeks later on May 8th, the Board of Managers of the Pennsylvania Society of Sons of the Revolution unanimously endorsed the action of the Pennsylvania Society of Colonial Dames. As a result of the resolution, Dr. Edward Brooks, then Superintendent of Public Schools of Philadelphia, directed that Flag Day exercises be held on June 14, 1893 in Independence Square.

School children were assembled, each carrying a small Flag, and patriotic songs were sung and addresses delivered.

In 1894, the governor of New York directed that on June 14 the Flag be displayed on all public buildings. With BJ Cigrand and Leroy Van Horn as the moving spirits, the Illinois organization, known as the American Flag Day Association, was organized for the purpose of promoting the holding of Flag Day exercises.

On June 14th, 1894, under the auspices of this association, the first general public school children's celebration of Flag Day in Chicago was held in Douglas, Garfield, Humboldt, Lincoln, and Washington Parks, with more than 300,000 children participating.

Adults, too, participated in patriotic programs. Franklin K. Lane, Secretary of the Interior, delivered a 1914 Flag Day address in which he repeated words he said the flag had spoken to him that morning: "I am what you make me; nothing more. I swing before your eyes as a bright gleam of color, a symbol of yourself."

Inspired by these three decades of state and local celebrations, Flag Day - the anniversary of the Flag Resolution of 1777 – was officially established by the Proclamation of President Woodrow Wilson on May 30th, 1916. While Flag Day was celebrated in various communities for years after Wilson's proclamation, it was not until August 3rd, 1949, that President Truman signed an Act of Congress designating June 14th of each year as National Flag Day.

#  DAY 166 (June 15)

# DEVASTATING CHANGES!

Philippians 4:8

Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things.

I recently read a comment by a Bible teacher to the effect that Satan is not so much interested in getting us to fight with God as he is convincing us to forget about God. EITHER WAY, SATAN WANTS TO BREAK OUR RELATIONSHIP WITH OUR HEAVENLY FATHER.

The Apostle Paul's words to the Philippian church were powerful, but they are equally appropriate for us today. He gives us a list of virtues with which to fill our minds— **things that are: TRUE, NOBLE, JUST, PURE, and LOVELY, OF GOOD REPORT. So says the Lord!**

_Satan is never pleased with the ways of God._ He whispers in the ears of all who will listen to create an opposite pattern to fill their minds with things that are: untrue, ignoble, unjust, impure, unlovely, of bad report... no one is perfect, so just go with the flow and do what feels good and is the best for you. This is the devastating change the enemy makes to the true Word of God! Whose interpretation will we accept?

The question immediately arises about what we place in our own minds. It is of vital importance for us to carefully examine our thought life.

Are the things of God more important than the things of Satan?

CHOOSE THE GODLY THOUGHTS!

# DAY 167 (June 16)

# GIVE ME HOPE!

1 Thessalonians 2:19

For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Is it not even you in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at His coming?

Some of you who are reading the Daily-E-Votional for today feel that you are at the end of your rope. **The pressures of life have been crushing in on you from all directions and, one after another, your safe havens have disappeared.** **YOU MAY EVEN FEEL THAT THERE IS NO PLACE TO GO FOR HELP.**

Hope is thought of as wishing for something that probably will not happen as we know the likelihood is very slim. That concept of the meaning seems to be all too common. Let me correct that idea once and for all.

The Greek word for hope as used in 1 Thessalonians 2:19 is the word elpis. It carries with it the meaning of confident expectation that God is the answer. Do you hear that? IT IS CONFIDENTLY WAITING FOR SOMETHING THE LORD HAS PREPARED ESPECIALLY FOR US!

Please read that last sentence over one more time. It is not what we desire for ourselves, but what God wants to do in and through us.

I THINK THE GREATEST JOY IN LIFE IS TO BE USED OF GOD.

# DAY 168 (June 17)

# PRAISE IN PAIN!

Matthew 5:11-12

Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake. Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.

On a regular basis I receive messages from readers who are encountering trials and tribulations. The things they are facing are so overwhelming that there seems to be no answer. I always pray for the individuals involved and the Lord usually directs my mind to the Scripture for today.

A few years ago a dear friend and member of our fellowship shared with me that several of her co-workers were jealous of her and were treating her with contempt. She recently sent me an encouraging note that lifted my spirits. I called her and asked if I could share it and she agreed, so here we go!

CECIL, HERE IS A PERSONAL STORY ABOUT LOVING THE UNLOVED:

Last week we had a consultant come to our office to teach us a new database system. The consultant was from India and spoke very broken English. Everyone in the office treated him poorly and nobody wanted to work with him. They quickly unloaded him on me and they took off to (supposed) meetings and other obligations.

They made themselves busy all week so they did not have any time to spend with him. I spent the week with him. At first I admit he was hard to understand and I did not want to put forth the extra effort to have meaningful communication any more than anyone else did but on the other hand I could not stand the way he was being treated so I tried my hardest to have good communication.

It only took about a half day and then we could easily understand each other. The more I worked with him, the more I liked him. By the end of the week, he told me he knew my co-workers treated me badly (by making me work with him). He also pointed out many other ways they treated me badly.

He had been asking our information services person to provide me a new mouse for my computer all week because mine was not working properly. I never did get a new mouse. He said he could not believe they expected me to do days and days of data entry with a non-functioning mouse. Here is the part that blew me away: HE SAID THE NEXT TIME HE COMES, HE WILL BRING ME A NEW MOUSE!!

We were not only able to work with each other but we became friends!!!

**WHAT A GREAT STORY!** When we live our life as unto the Lord, He will open doors that we never dreamed possible.

In the process we will find that His ways are pleasant and rewarding. **Rather than whimpering and feeling sorry for ourselves, we need to rejoice that we are worthy to face the painful situations of life.**

#  DAY 169 (June 18)

# THE BENCH!

Romans 15:30-31

Now I beg you, brethren, through the Lord Jesus Christ, and through the love of the Spirit, that you strive together with me in prayers to God for me, that I may be delivered from those in Judea who do not believe, and that my service for Jerusalem may be acceptable to the saints.

It may just be bad vibes from the past, but recently my mind wandered back to my high school days and a custom known as the bench. It was a penalty for not maintaining a passing average in all of the subjects being taken in school. If you dropped below a C average, you were placed on the bench.

Being on the bench prohibited a student from participating in any and all extracurricular activities. That is a fancy term that means you are banned from athletics, band, drama, or any other fun stuff that high school kids live for. I must confess that my academic achievements were not what they should have been back then and each week I dreaded checking the board to see if I had been benched. It happened a few times.

I CANNOT GO BACK AND RELIVE THOSE DAYS OF YESTERYEAR, BUT I CAN STRIVE TO BE ALL THAT GOD WANTS ME TO BE FOR HIM TODAY _. That is why I eagerly greet each day with the anticipation of being the very best servant the Lord calls me to be. No bench for me please!_

#  **HISTORY OF FATHER'S DAY**

HISTORY OF FATHER'S DAY

History of Father's Day Festival as seen today is not even a hundred years old. Thanks to the hard work and struggle of Ms. Sonora Louise Smart Dodd of Washington that just as we have set aside Mother's Day to honor mothers we have a day to acknowledge the important role played by the father.

However, some scholars opine that Father's Day history is much older than we actually believe it to be. They say that the custom of honoring dad's on a special day is over 4,000 years old. There are a few more claims about the Father's Day origin about which we will learn in this page.

EARLIEST HISTORY OF FATHER'S DAY

Scholars believe that the origin of Father's Day is not a latest phenomenon, as many believe it to be. Rather they claim that the tradition of Father's Day can be traced in the ruins of Babylon.

They have recorded that a young boy called Elmesu carved a Father's Day message on a card made out of clay nearly 4,000 years ago. Elmesu wished his Babylonian father good health and a long life.

Though there is no record of what happened to Elmesu and his father but the tradition of celebrating Father's Day remained in several countries all over the world.   
HISTORY OF FATHER'S DAY IN USA  
Modern version of Father's Day celebration originated in United States of America and thereafter the tradition spread in countries around the world.

The world owes thanks to Ms. Sonora Louise Smart Dodd a loving daughter from Spokane, Washington as it is because of her struggle that Father's Day saw the light of the day.

The idea of Father's Day celebration originated in Sonora's mind when she per chance listened to Mother's Day sermon in 1909.

Fairly mature at the age 27, Sonora pondered if there is a day to honor mother then why not for father? Sonora felt strongly for fathers because of the affection she received from her own father Mr. William Jackson Smart, a Civil War veteran. Sonora's mother died while childbirth when she was just 16. Mr. Smart raised the newborn and five other children with love and care.

INSPIRED BY MS. ANNA JARVIS'S STRUGGLE TO PROMOTE MOTHER'S DAY

Ms. Dodd began a rigorous campaign to celebrate Father's Day in US. The Spokane Ministerial Association and the local Young Men's Christian Association (YMCA) supported Sonora's cause. As a result Spokane celebrated its first Father's Day on June 19, 1910.

Though there was initial hesitation the idea gained gradual popularity all over US and Father's Day came to be celebrated in cities across the country.

Looking at the heightened popularity of Father's Day in US, President Woodrow Wilson approved of this idea in 1916.

President Calvin Coolidge too supported the idea of a national Father's Day in 1924 to, "establish more intimate relations between fathers and their children and to impress upon fathers the full measure of their obligations".

After a protracted struggle of over four decades, President Lyndon Johnson signed a presidential proclamation declaring the third Sunday of June as Father's Day in 1966.

Then in 1972, President Richard Nixon established a permanent national observance of Father's Day to be held on the third Sunday of June. Sonora Smart Dodd was honored for her contribution at the World's Fair in Spokane in 1974. Mrs. Dodd died in 1978 at age 96.

OTHER THEORIES OF FATHER'S DAY ORIGIN

There are several theories behind the origination of Father's Day.

Some believe that the first Father's Day church service was held in West Virginia in 1908.

Others opine that the ceremony was first held in Vancouver, Washington.

The president of Lions' Club, Chicago, Harry Meek is said to have celebrated the first Father's Day with his organization in 1915 to stress on the need to honor fathers. He selected third Sunday in June for celebration, the closest date to Meek's own birthday.

In appreciation for Meek's work, the Lions Clubs of America presented him with a gold watch, with the inscription "Originator of Father's Day," on his birthday, June 20, 1920.

Some historians honor Mrs. Charles Clayton of West Virginia, as the Founder of Father's Day.

In 1957, Senator Margaret Chase Smith wrote Congress that, "Either we honor both our parents, mother and father, or let us desist from honoring either one. But to single out just one of our two parents and omit the other is the most grievous insult imaginable."

In countries where Catholic Church holds greater influence Father's Day is celebrated on St. Joseph's Day (March 19).

PRESENT DAY CELEBRATIONS

Father's Day Festival has gained amazing popularity over the years. The festival is considered to be a secular one and is celebrated not just in USA but in a large number of countries around the world including;

Argentina, Australia, Belgium, Brazil, France, Germany, Japan, New Zealand, Norway and India though on different dates.

World over people take Father's Day as an opportunity to thank father and pay tribute to them.

On this day children present Father's Day cards not just to their dads but also grandfathers, uncles, stepfathers or any other person who commands the position of a father in their life.

There is also a trend to present Father's Day gift to dad, most popular of all being necktie. Other popular gift being roses, the official Father's Day flower.

Many people rue that the trend of presenting gifts to fathers has led to over commercialization of the festival relegating the noble idea behind Father's Day celebration.

# DAY 170 (June 19)

# SHOW SOME RESPECT!

Hebrews 12:7-9

If you endure chastening, God deals with you as with sons; for what son is there whom a father does not chasten? But if you are without chastening, of which all have become partakers, then you are illegitimate and not sons. Furthermore, we have had human fathers who corrected us, and we paid them RESPECT. Shall we not much more readily be in subjection to the Father of spirits and live?

I think it was the actor Rodney Dangerfield who continually complained that he received no respect. This complaint has not been limited to Dangerfield, but is shared by many people. Many assaults and even murders have been committed because someone thought they were not given the proper respect.

In my experience with the criminal justice system, as well in private counseling, I have discovered a one-way street. Those people who are so adamant about receiving respect are most often the ones who show little respect to others.

The word respect as used here in Hebrews 12 is the Greek word entrepȏ. It may also be interpreted as reverence. Wow! That is a quality that is rarely seen in our modern world!

We may think of the lack of reverence and/or respect to those in authority around us such as parents, employers, or elected officials, but that is nothing in comparison with the reverence and respect that is due to our Lord Jesus Christ. WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOU HONORED HIM WITH THE RESPECT HE DESERVES? NOW IS THE TIME TO ACT!

#  DAY 171 (June 20)

# RUST REMOVER!

John 9:4-5

I must work the works of Him who sent Me while it is day; the night is coming when no one can work. As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world.

A friend recently sent me a group of humorous pictures of items that contradicted their original purpose. ONE PHOTO SHOWED A CAN OF RUST REMOVER THAT WAS COATED WITH RUST. (PERHAPS THAT IS A VIVID REMINDER THAT IT'S WHAT'S ON THE INSIDE THAT COUNTS!)

As I laughed at the incongruity of the photo, I recalled hearing a remark to the effect **THAT IT IS BETTER TO BURN OUT THAN TO RUST OUT.**

As I think about it, I really do not recall knowing anyone who worked to death in serving the Lord in the power of the Holy Spirit.

I am sad to admit that I have known many who became rusty in the work for the Lord. The fire they once had begun to flicker and the oil in their lamp ran dry. Instead of returning to the Lord for a fresh supply, they pressed on in their own strength. Regrettably, it wasn't long before spiritual rust began to eat away their luster.

_How do we insure that we will not fall into the same rusty rut?_ **I think the answer is in staying close to the Lord in all that we are doing. Rather than doing things to please people, we need to always be focused on pleasing the Lord. That means we need to start each day with prayer and the Word.**

IT IS THE OIL THAT WILL LUBRICATE AND PRESERVE US FOR EACH DAY, BUT WE NEED THAT FRESH SUPPLY ON A DAILY BASIS.

#  DAY 172 (June 21) (1st Day of Summer)

# THE LAWS OF MOTION!

James 5:7-8

Therefore be patient, brethren, until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, waiting patiently for it until it receives the early and latter rain. You also be patient. Establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand.

Sir Isaac Newton was a very brilliant man. He set forth the Laws of Motion. The first law is:

  1. A body in motion tends to remain in motion until acted upon by some outside force.

  2. The second law has sometimes been called the law of inertia. It states that: A body at rest tends to remain at rest unless impelled by some external force.

  3. The third law is: For every action there is an equal and opposite reaction.

ALRIGHT, BOYS AND GIRLS, THAT IS YOUR PHYSICS LESSON FOR TODAY!

Leaving such principles of the universe without spiritual comment would be tragic. The God of the universe who created and designed these forces is that same God who desires a personal relationship in our life.

Just as there are physical laws that are in control of the universe, there are spiritual laws that are designed to draw us close to the Lord.

  1. The first spiritual law of motion is: A soul that moves toward the Lord will tend to continue moving toward Him. The problem is that the devil is trying to draw our attention away from the Lord, and if we are not careful our momentum will be stopped.

  2. The second spiritual law of motion is: A soul that is at rest concerning God will fail to move toward Him.

  3. The third spiritual law of motion is: For every spiritual action there is an equal and opposite reaction.

Where do you find yourself in relation to the spiritual laws of motion? Have you made promises to make the Lord a priority in your life, but then failed to act upon it?

# **1ST DAY OF SUMMER**

### June Solstice: Longest and Shortest Day of the Year.

### The June solstice is known as the summer solstice in the northern hemisphere and the winter solstice the southern hemisphere.

### The date varies between June 20 and June 22, depending on the year.

#  DAY 173 (June 22)

# OUR FAITHFUL GOD!

1 Corinthians 10:13

No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; He will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, He will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.

My cousin used to minister as a song evangelist along with a preaching evangelist traveling from church to church across the country. He related that the evangelist would begin the first service of the week by asking if anyone had ever stolen anything—even anything as small as a pencil. **EVERYONE RAISED THEIR HAND.** He next asked who had ever told a lie—even just stretching the truth a little. **AGAIN EVERY HAND WAS RAISED.** **Then the evangelist would turn to the pastor of the church and state that he had arrived just in time to preach to a church full of thieves and liars!**

In 1 Corinthians 10:13 Paul speaks about temptation. He goes so far as to say that any temptation you may encounter has been experienced by others. That is not to say that it is excusable, but it reveals that we all have a sinful nature.

It is interesting that immediately following the statement about temptations being a common affliction to all mankind, Paul says: **GOD IS FAITHFUL.** What a fantastic statement. _We may experience the lure of temptation, but God is faithful._ God is faithful in so many ways that it is hard to discuss only one, but that is what I want to do: **HE WILL ALSO PROVIDE A WAY OUT SO THAT YOU CAN STAND UP UNDER IT.**

In the book of Genesis we read about Joseph being tempted by the unfaithful wife of his master, Potiphar. Joseph sought a way out of the situation by avoiding her advances and evading any contact with her. You may recall how she falsely accused him which led to his confinement in prison. Let me let you in on a spiritual secret—the prison was a place of escape. Joseph was protected from this lecherous woman by the mighty hand of God. It may have seemed like punishment, but it was the means God used to protect and prepare Joseph.

Rather than becoming bitter by his false imprisonment, Joseph honed the organizational skills that God would later use to raise him up to a position that was second in authority over all of Egypt. Even when it seemed that God had forgotten him, **GOD WAS FAITHFUL!**

You may feel as if the circumstances of life are crushing you down. You may experience the temptation to become bitter because someone you trusted has betrayed you. I have a solemn word of warning for you: **WATCH OUT THAT YOU DO NOT DEVELOP AN UNFORGIVING SPIRIT.**

**Those who have cheated you have their own confessing to do, but your own battle is with the temptation to develop an unforgiving spirit.** _I trust that you will allow God to be your way of escape._

# DAY 174 (June 23)

#   STANDING UP ON THE INSIDE!

Romans 7:19-20

For the good that I will to do, I do not do; but the evil I will not to do, that I practice. Now if I do what I will not to do, it is no longer I who do it, but sin that dwells in me.

Joyce and I were once enjoying a leisurely breakfast at a local restaurant. Across from us was a young father with his 14-month-old daughter. She was seated in a booster chair, but insisted on standing up. Over and over he asked her to sit down and then would have to pick her up and sit her back down, only to have her pop back up.

THIS SCENARIO REPEATED ITSELF SEVERAL MORE TIMES BEFORE HE FINALLY TOOK THE TIME TO FASTEN THE SAFETY BELT THAT PREVENTED HER FROM STANDING. THANKFULLY, THEIR ORDER ARRIVED AT THE SAME TIME, SO THERE WAS NOT A FUSS FROM THE LITTLE ONE.

It reminded me of the story about a small boy that was driving his mother crazy with his antics (it could have been me). His mother reached the end of her patience and placed him on a footstool with the threat of a spanking if he got up. **THE BOY DEFIANTLY STATED THAT HE MAY BE SITTING DOWN ON THE OUTSIDE, BUT HE WAS STANDING UP ON THE INSIDE!**

**Many people read the Word of God faithfully and understand what it says. They even know the consequences for failure to obey.** They finally yield and sit in obedience to the Lord God on the outside, but they are still standing up on the inside _. God has a special blessing for those who not only obey on the outside, but also on the inside._ **WHICH ARE YOU?**

# DAY 175 (June 24)

# INSPIRE ME!

Hebrews 3:13-14

But exhort one another daily, while it is called today, lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. For we have become partakers of Christ if we hold the beginning of our confidence steadfast to the end.

Our dear friend who is employed at a retirement facility recently shared a heartache. One of the residents who had been a radiant inspiration to her passed away. This man who had brightened our friend's day was no longer there, and it made her feel such loss that she was finding it difficult to go in to work.

**As I officiate at funeral services, I frequently hear people comment about what an inspiration the deceased had been to them. Sometimes there will be tears in their eyes as they remember how that person had made their life bearable**.

Most of us have someone who was such an inspiration to us that they changed the direction of our life. If that person is still alive, they are still being a tremendous inspiration to you. If so, please let them know what a difference they have made in your life.

Paul encourages us to exhort (inspire) those around us on a daily basis. That means that we are to be a constant inspiration to others. **Not only will it be a blessing to them, but it will prevent us from having a hard heart and protect us from being open to the deceitfulness of sin. BE AN INSPIRATION! NOW!**

#  DAY 176 (June 25)

# A GOOD WORD!

Proverbs 12:25

Heaviness in the heart of man maketh it stoop: but a good word maketh it glad.

As a pastor and counselor, I hear the heart cry of people from all over the world. They are anxious about their situation and want an answer that will give them relief and allow them to get out from under the pressure they feel.

A HEAVY HEART CAN BE CAUSED BY GRIEF, UNCERTAINTY, LOSS, OR ANY NUMBER OF THINGS. It is common to observe people walking around with a frown on their face and their shoulders bent as if they were bearing the weight of the world. As a matter of fact, they probably feel that they are.

When someone is crushed under the pressures of life, they need release. **One of the most ineffective comments we can make to a person who has a heavy heart is "CHEER UP!"**

They want to cheer up, but lack the ability to do so. It is at this point that we can be the greatest benefit in lifting them out of the pit of despair.

_Proverbs 12:25 suggests that a good word makes a heart glad. The question is what is a good word?_ **THE ANSWER IS THAT IT IS A WORD THAT COMES FROM THE LORD.**

As I write this, I am struck by the reality that often the best word we can offer is not a word at all—IT IS PRESENCE. Just to be near during the time of suffering without comment is a word in itself. Our presence can speak hope and deliverance which will allow us to share the ultimate good word— **THE WORD OF GOD!**

Be prepared, you never know when God may call you to lift a weary servant.

# DAY 177 (June 26)

# TOTALLY!

Proverbs 3:5-6

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.

There is an old joke that I heard years ago. It seems that a chicken and a pig were discussing what they could do to show their appreciation to farmer Brown. **The chicken suggested that they should honor him by providing a breakfast of ham and eggs.** **The pig snorted that for the chicken that would just be giving an offering—BUT FOR HIM IT WOULD BE A TOTAL COMMITMENT.**

What a silly story...yet it becomes all too appropriate when we relate it to our spiritual walk with the Lord. THERE ARE MANY CHRISTIANS WHO ARE SATISFIED WITH ONLY GIVING A TOKEN OFFERING. They do not want to be associated with those they consider to be wild eyed religious fanatics (the WERFs).

As I study the lives of the Old Testament and New Testament saints, I find that they were far sighted and solid in faith. They looked beyond the frothy things of this world and saw the reality of eternity with the Lord.

Proverbs 3:5-6 gives direction that provides us with a road map for our life. When we place our complete trust in the Lord, we have the confident assurance that He will direct our paths **. I prefer to have the Lord of the universe direct my life rather than to trust in my own human resources. I TRUST IN HIM!**

#  DAY 178 (June 27)

# I DARE YOU!

Deuteronomy 30:19

I call heaven and earth as witnesses today against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing; therefore choose life, that both you and your descendants may live.

When I was a kid we would occasionally dare one of our friends to do something that required special effort. It was usually something that we would have a hard time doing ourselves and as often as not, something that was dangerous and really should not have been attempted in the first place.

I am not sure if the same dares take place today, but they probably do. As I read the closing words of Deuteronomy chapter 30, I see that Moses challenges his flock with perhaps the biggest dare anyone could make – LIFE OR DEATH!

Any rational person would think that this challenge was a no brainer. Who in their right mind would not choose life? The sad answer is that the majority of people then, as well as in our own day, choose death instead of life.

We choose death when we fail to respond to the Word of God. We choose death when we opt to follow our own way and reject the offer of life that the Lord offers all who will receive it.

THE CHALLENGE IS STILL THERE BEFORE US – WILL YOU CHOOSE LIFE OR DEATH. I BEG YOU TO CHOOSE LIFE!

#  DAY 179 (June 28)

# A TANGLED WEB!

James 1:26-27: If anyone among you thinks he is religious, and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his own heart, this one(s) religion is useless. Pure and undefiled religion before God and the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their trouble, and to keep oneself unspotted from the world.

OH, WHAT A TANGLED WEB WE WEAVE, WHEN FIRST WE PURPOSE TO DECEIVE. Those words were penned in 1808 by Sir Walter Scott in his poem Marmion. His words have frequently been attributed to William Shakespeare, which adds credence to the way tangled webs of truth and fiction can produce error.

In this fast-paced world where wrong is held out to be right and right is more and more considered erroneous, tangled reality is the pattern of the day. Sadly, as time goes along, I feel that this upside-down logic will become the standard.

It is bad enough to become ensnared in the tangled web of deception concerning other people, but it is also possible to deceive our own selves. We start the web tangling by listening to and acting on worldly wisdom rather than relying upon the infallible Word of God.

This is the time for self-examination. Is our conduct of life based upon the wisdom of the world or what God has said? DO WE SEEK TO REINTERPRET THE BIBLE TO SUIT OUR OWN BEHAVIOR? _Confession and obedience to what God says will clear the webs of deceit that entangle us._

# DAY 180 (June 29)

# EXCEEDING JOY!

Jude 1:24-25: Now to Him who is able to keep you from stumbling, and to present you faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy, to God our Savior, who alone is wise, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and forever. Amen.

**WHAT DO YOU RECALL AS BEING THE MOST JOYFUL MOMENT OF YOUR LIFE?** I heard the old story of a man who proudly boasted that he had been married 35 happy years to his lovely wife. _He then stated that out of 46 years, 35 wasn't too bad. How sad!_

MY DEAR JOYCE AND I HAD BEEN MARRIED SINCE 1952, AND ONE OF MY GREATEST JOYS WAS TO HAVE HER BY MY SIDE.

I frequently mention the sad faces we observe all around us. It's rare to see people expressing joy. _There appears to be great joy in some church services, but it is mostly a copycat joy—people mimicking those around them without really having true joy within._

If you want a reason for joy, please read today's three verses from the small book of Jude (who was the half-brother of Jesus and the brother of James). Here, Jude expresses joy that only Jesus can keep us from stumbling and present us faultless before His presence. THAT IS BECAUSE JESUS PAID A PRICE WE COULD NEVER PAY WHEN HE DIED FOR OUR SINS.

That, my dear heart, is worthy of joy unspeakable and full of glory! If you have lost the pure joy of your salvation, stop and take the time to realize the wonderful eternity we have waiting for us because of our new life in Christ.

#  DAY 181 (June 30)

# THE GREATEST!

John 20:29

Jesus said to him: Thomas, because you have seen Me, you have believed. Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.

Joyce and I once watched a Christian movie that dealt with a problem that many people face: How to deal with disappointment and lack of faith when your prayers do not seem to be answered.

You may have heard of foxhole faith. That term was coined when a soldier was huddled deep in a foxhole during severe bombardment. Men are dying all around him and the soldier promises the Lord that if He gets him out of this battle alive, he will serve Him the rest of his life.

Similar "foxhole" prayers could be praying for divine healing, landing a job, getting a passing grade on a test, or any number of things. If these prayers do not seem to be answered, it is possible for a person to doubt God and develop a bitter spirit.

JESUS CALLS US TO LOOK BEYOND THE REQUESTS OF THIS LIFE AND SEE THE ETERNITY WAITING FOR ALL WHO ARE BORN AGAIN AND HAVE AN ETERNAL REWARD WAITING.

# DAY 182 (July 1)

# A NEW DAY!

2 Peter 1:19-21

And so we have the prophetic word confirmed, which you do well to heed as a light that shines in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts; knowing this first, that no prophecy of Scripture is of any private interpretation, for prophecy never came by the will of man, but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit.

Back in my high school years I worked part time at a local dairy. The dairy picked up milk from near-by farms to process into heavy cream, whole milk, skim milk, and cottage cheese.

Sometimes I drove a large truck to the farms to pick up the 10 gallon cans of milk and deliver them to the plant. I can still recall those early morning hours as I was driving and seeing the sky begin to turn lighter and lighter until the sun would burst over the eastern horizon. A NEW DAY HAD BEGUN!

In the darkness of this old sin-sick world, we can easily become discouraged over the lack of spirituality. Sin has always been with us, and it appears to be so prevalent that righteous living is now ridiculed as being abnormal...AND ABNORMALITY IS GLORIFIED.

I want all of us to take courage. In the darkest night we can look at the eastern horizon and see the first signs of a new day. God has never failed His people and has given us His prophetic word that the things we are now seeing are a solid indication that His coming is very near.

A NEW DAY! COME QUICKLY, LORD JESUS!

# DAY 183 (July 2)

# WAITING!

Luke 15:20

And he arose and came to his father. But when he was still a great way off, his father saw him and had compassion, and ran and fell on his neck and kissed him.

I AM NOT AN IMPATIENT PERSON...IT IS JUST THAT I WANT THINGS TO BE DONE WITHOUT HAVING TO WAIT! You may feel much like that yourself. _There are times in our life when we strongly desire for changes to be made immediately, but they just seem to take much longer than expected._

As we read the parable of the Lost Son, more commonly called The Prodigal Son, we are struck by the image of a father waiting and longing for a wayward son to come home. I visualize the father sitting on the front porch of his home, gazing down the long lane leading to the house. His heart is aching to see the familiar form of that son who has been gone for so long.

THERE IS ANOTHER PICTURE THAT WE DO NOT COMMONLY SEE IN THE PARABLE. It is the one of the older brother who remained at home. He might have remained at home, but his wayward heart was in that far country with his younger brother. We see this later in the story as the brother has imagined his younger brother wasting his money with harlots. There is no way he could have known this, but he vicariously experienced it and his heart was not where it should have been.

**THE FATHER ACTUALLY HAD TWO SONS WHO WERE GONE** — _One was lost in a far country and the other was lost in his imagination._ **ONLY THE YOUNGER SON RETURNED TO THE FATHER.** **The older son refused to return to the house, even when his father begged him.**

WHO IS WAITING FOR YOU TODAY, OR FOR WHOM ARE YOU WAITING?

# DAY 184 (July 3)

# THE BIG PICTURE!

2 Corinthians 4:16-18

Therefore we do not lose heart. Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day. For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory, while we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal.

SOMETIMES WE STRUGGLE OVER THE TRIALS AND TRIBULATIONS OF OUR LIFE TRYING TO MAKE SENSE OF WHY THINGS HAPPEN THE WAY THEY DO.

If God is great and mighty, and He is, why do we have to endure such tests to our faith?

THE ANSWER IS TO BE FOUND IN OUR RESTRICTED VISION.

I recall flying by helicopter to a missile site in central Missouri. I had traveled the route many times by car and knew that there were places that were steep and winding that required slow travel, especially when being stuck behind a slow moving truck. **They were clearly marked with** "no passing" **signs.**

On this day, from my bird's-eye view, I observed a truck being followed by a passenger car. I knew that it would be miles before the car could safely pass the slower vehicle—he was stuck!

I WISHED THAT I COULD COMMUNICATE WITH THE DRIVER IN THE CAR AND TELL HIM WHEN IT WAS SAFE TO PASS OR TO WATCH OUT FOR AN ON-COMING VEHICLE.

I could not do so, so the driver had to wait until he could see the road for himself.

PAUL EXPRESSES THE CONCEPT OF WAITING PATIENTLY IN THE LORD IN 1 CORINTHIANS 13:12 –

For now we see in a mirror, dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part, but then I shall know just as I also am known. Until that day, we, along with Paul, must trust in the Lord with all our heart rather than depending on our limited vision.

# DAY 185 (July 4)

# FINDING ESTEEM!

Philippians 2:3

Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself.

MODERN COUNSELORS CAN SPEND AN INORDINATE AMOUNT OF TIME TRYING TO ASSIST THEIR CLIENTS IN FINDING THEIR SELF ESTEEM. These counselors feel that when one thinks well about himself, all of their other problems will be resolved. That is the human view of being "WELL ADJUSTED." The problem is that it seldom has the desired effect...USUALLY IT IS JUST THE OPPOSITE.

In reading through the Word of God, I discover that God is not interested in how wonderful we think we are. As a matter of fact, the more time we spend trying to improve our own self-image, the more sessions with the counselor that are required.

The answer is for us to see things as God sees them. Our view of what amounts to good and noble is different from the way the Lord views them. We think we will achieve status and acclaim by being better than everybody else. GOD SEES THINGS DIFFERENTLY.

God is far more concerned about us giving freely of ourselves to others. It is not the praise that we receive, but the service to others that we perform that He delights in observing.

MY PERSONAL DESIRE IS TO GIVE FREELY OF ALL THAT I AM TO EACH AND EVERY PERSON I MEET. I CERTAINLY AM NOT THERE YET, BUT IT IS MY GOAL.

#  **THE HISTORY OF THE 4TH OF JULY**

On July 4, 1776, the thirteen colonies claimed their independence from England, an event which eventually led to the formation of the United States. Each year on July 4th, also known as Independence Day, Americans celebrate this historic event.

Conflict between the colonies and England was already a year old when the colonies convened a Continental Congress in Philadelphia in the summer of 1776. In a June 7 session in the Pennsylvania State House (later Independence Hall), Richard Henry Lee of Virginia presented a resolution with the famous words:

"Resolved: That these United Colonies are, and of right ought to be, free and independent States, that they are absolved from all allegiance to the British Crown, and that all political connection between them and the State of Great Britain is, and ought to be, totally dissolved."

Lee's words were the impetus for the drafting of a formal Declaration of Independence, although the resolution was not followed up on immediately. On June 11, consideration of the resolution was postponed by a vote of seven colonies to five, with New York abstaining.

However, a Committee of Five was appointed to draft a statement presenting to the world the colonies' case for independence. Members of the Committee included John Adams of Massachusetts, Roger Sherman of Connecticut, Benjamin Franklin of Pennsylvania, Robert R. Livingston of New York and Thomas Jefferson of Virginia. The task of drafting the actual document fell on Jefferson.

On July 1, 1776, the Continental Congress reconvened, and on the following day, the Lee Resolution for independence was adopted by 12 of the 13 colonies, New York not voting. Discussions of Jefferson's  Declaration of Independence resulted in some minor changes, but the spirit of the document was unchanged.

The process of revision continued through all of July 3 and into the late afternoon of July 4, when the Declaration was officially adopted.

Of the 13 colonies, nine voted in favor of the Declaration, two -- Pennsylvania and South Carolina -- voted No, Delaware was undecided and New York abstained.

John Hancock, President of the Continental Congress, signed the Declaration of Independence. It is said that John Hancock's signed his name "with a great flourish" so England's "King George can read that without spectacles!"

Today, the original copy of the Declaration is housed in the National Archives in Washington, D.C., and July 4 has been designated a national holiday to commemorate the day the United States laid down its claim to be a free and independent nation.

# DAY 186 (July 5)

# DEVELOPING CHARACTER!

Philippians 2:19, 22

But I trust in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you shortly, that I also may be encouraged when I know your state. But you know his proven character, that as a son with his father he served with me in the gospel.

When I mention that thoughts are critical, I do not mean to imply that it is just being critical of others, but rather that our thought life has a bearing on what we will become.

A friend has been taking a class and sent me some of the thoughts that were shared in the class sessions. It reminded me once again of the importance of what we put into our minds.

  * WATCH YOUR THOUGHTS...THEY BECOME YOUR WORDS

  * WATCH YOUR WORDS...THEY BECOME YOUR ACTIONS

  * WATCH YOUR ACTIONS...THEY BECOME YOUR HABITS

  * WATCH YOUR HABITS...THEY BECOME YOUR CHARACTER

As I read these cautions, it is clear that our thought life controls the type of character we will develop. Questionable thoughts will start us down the wrong path and ultimately lead to doubtful character. Good and noble thoughts, based upon the Word of God, will begin the process of developing a Christ-like character.

SPEND TIME READING AND MEDITATING ON THE WORD OF GOD. IT WILL SET THE TONE OF YOUR THOUGHT LIFE AND ULTIMATELY YOU WILL ACHIEVE A CHARACTER THAT IS PLEASING TO THE LORD.

#  DAY 187 (July 6)

# A SOFT ANSWER!

Proverbs 15:1-2

A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. The tongue of the wise uses knowledge rightly, but the mouth of fools pours forth foolishness.

In our modern world there is a somewhat recent phenomenon known as TRASH TALKING. It is most commonly found in the field of sports. Wow! WHAT IS SPORTING ABOUT CALLING THE OPPONENT NAMES AND BOASTING ABOUT YOUR OWN GREATNESS?

I wonder if this idea of insulting another person or group while exaggerating the accomplishments of self is part of the reason for so much violence. It seems to follow that if a person cannot back up his boasts with action, he often resorts to criminal action.

I have noticed that Christians are all too often caught in this activity of trash talking. Rather than going to the Lord in prayer and confessing their own sins, they attack other people who hold a different point of view. I do not mean to compromise the solid truths of the Word of God, but much of the time it has nothing to do with biblical interpretation.

**TO GIVE A SOFT ANSWER IS NOT A WEAK ANEMIC ATTITUDE.** It can be a positive force if we take the time to ask the Lord how we should respond to questionable practices. This entails looking into the Word of God on a consistent basis to find the solid foundation that God desires. _How would Jesus respond?_

# **DAY 188 (July 7)**

# SEED TIME AND HARVEST!

John 12:24-25

Most assuredly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the ground and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it produces much grain. He who loves his life will lose it, and he who hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life.

I am not much of a farmer or even a gardener. But even with my limited knowledge, I have been aware of one thing: GOD HAS ESTABLISHED A PRINCIPLE THAT HAS REMAINED CONSISTENT ACROSS THE AGES OF TIME THAT IN ORDER TO HAVE A HARVEST, THERE MUST BE A SEED TIME.

Grains of wheat found in dark and dry Egyptian tombs had remained as individual seeds for centuries. WHEN THESE GRAINS WERE TEST PLANTED TO SEE WHAT WOULD HAPPEN...THEY DIED! That is, they stopped being dry and dormant seeds. But in death the seeds produced shoots that broke the ground, and after a time, a head appeared. These once-individual grains reproduced. A SEED HAD TO GO INTO THE GROUND AND DIE BEFORE IT COULD PRODUCE A CROP.

My grandparents were wheat farmers on the Oklahoma Panhandle. It was always a delight to travel from our home in the Pacific Northwest to visit and experience the excitement of harvest time. _They grew winter wheat which was planted in the fall and harvested in the heat of summer._

I think it is safe to say that seeds are always planted in a different season than when they are harvested. **SPIRITUALLY WE ARE CALLED TO DIE TO OURSELVES IN ORDER TO ALLOW A HARVEST IN THE FUTURE. ARE YOU DYING TO SELF THAT OTHERS MAY FIND LIFE?** Are you planting what others will reap or are you reaping what others have planted? _We are all intended to be fruitful servants of the Lord._

# DAY 189 (July 8)

# JUST OBEY!

1 Samuel 15:22

Has the Lord as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the Lord? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed than the fat of rams.

At various times I have been referred to as Mister, Reverend, Pastor, Minister, Preacher, and while in the Air Force, by the rank I held at the time. MY MOTHER NEVER GAVE ME ANY OF THESE TITLES. SHE JUST STUCK ME WITH THE NAME CECIL ADRAIN THOMPSON. I SURE WISH SHE HAD NOT DONE THAT!

Getting back to the titles, I am perplexed by the number of people that send off for some supposed degree that will confer a title such as those mentioned above. I must confess that I spent some years earning mine, but I fail to hold tightly to them. I would just rather be known as Cecil.

In today's passage, Saul has failed to obey the specific instructions of the Lord. He is arguing with Samuel about how he wants to sacrifice the best of the animals captured from the Amalakites to the Lord. BUT THAT WAS NOT WHAT THE LORD HAD COMMANDED. HE HAD ORDERED THE COMPLETE ERADICATION OF THE ENEMY. HE WANTED SAUL TO OBEY RATHER THAN BARGAIN.

How many times have we found ourselves trying to bargain with God instead of obeying what we read in the Word of God?

The Holy Spirit directs us in a particular direction, but we go our own willful way and then want God to bless us. NOPE! **IT JUST WILL NOT WORK THAT WAY. HE REQUIRES OBEDIENCE.**

HE JUST WANTS US TO OBEY. TRUST AND OBEY, THERE IS NO OTHER WAY!

# DAY 190 (July 9)

# YOU ARE LOVED!

John 3:16-17

For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.

Sometimes when we are the most unlovable of all creatures, we need love the most. I guess it is just the sinful nature within us. WE OFTEN DO AND SAY THINGS THAT ARE SO UNGODLY THAT WE TRY TO DENY OUR CONDUCT, EVEN TO OURSELVES.

**We can and should confess our indiscretions to the Lord, and we are assured that He will forgive us when we confess.** But that still leaves us with a feeling of emptiness and alienation from others. AT THE TIME WE NEED THEM THE MOST, WE OFTEN ACT LIKE A RILED PORCUPINE AND KEEP PEOPLE FAR FROM US.

I recall that I was leading a small-group Bible study years ago. One of the men in the group was a prominent business man with a reputation for being cantankerous. I felt uneasy having him in the class for fear that he would drive others away.

One night I encouraged the members to share their need for love and prayer from the group. HE WAS THE FIRST ONE TO RESPOND AND CONFESSED THAT HE NEEDED US TO PRAY THAT THE LORD WOULD CLEANSE HIM AND GIVE HIM A NEW NATURE.

**AS WE PRAYED FOR HIM THERE WAS A SPIRIT OF LOVE THAT TRANSFORMED HIM COMPLETELY.** The man received pure love from part of the body of Christ. _He was changed and his subsequent behavior reflected that change._

If you need that kind of love, God is ready to give it to you.

#  DAY 191 (July 10)

# LET YOUR LIGHT SHINE!

Matthew 5:14-16: You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lamp stand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.

Somewhere I heard that the definition of dark is the absence of light. That sounds reasonable to me, and at the same time I realize that there are many types of darkness. WHEN THE SUN GOES DOWN WE SAY THAT IT IS DARK, BUT IS IT REALLY?

The closer we are to the lights of a city, the more difficult it is to view the light from the moon and stars. There have been times when I was far from the city lights and was astounded at the difference it made in viewing the heavens.

The darkest place I have ever been was in Carlsbad Caverns, New Mexico. Our guide was explaining the various formations and informed us he was about to show us how dark it was with all of the lights extinguished. I am not sure how long it was, but it almost felt like you could feel the dark. HE FINALLY TURNED ON A FLICKERING LIGHT AND IT SEEMED TO FLOOD THE ENTIRE CAVERN AREA.

_We may be discouraged about the dark world in which we live, but there is a purpose in our being here. It is to allow the light of the glorious gospel of Christ to bring light to the evil blackness of the world_. LET YOUR LIGHT SHINE!

#  DAY 192 (July 11)

# BROKEN PROMISES!

Ephesians 6:4

And you, fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath, but bring them up in the training and admonition of the Lord.

Years ago I heard a favorite minister relate a heartbreaking story about a father who had grieved his son terribly. It seems that the father had promised to take his son on a fishing trip. The boy waited in eager anticipation for the time when just he and his father would be alone on a fish-filled lake. (Such lakes reside more in the area of dreams than reality!)

The day of the trip arrived and the son was eagerly packing all of his gear into the car. It was just then that the phone rang. The father went back into the house to take the call. AFTER A FEW MINUTES THE SON FOLLOWED HIS DAD JUST IN TIME TO HEAR HIM TELL THE CALLER THAT HE HAD NOTHING IMPORTANT PLANNED FOR THE DAY AND WOULD BE RIGHT THERE.

**The long-awaited trip was off.** **NOT ONLY WAS THERE TO BE NO FISHING TRIP WITH HIS DAD, BUT THE DAD HAD THOUGHT SO LITTLE OF IT THAT HE TOLD THE CALLER THAT HE HAD NOTHING IMPORTANT PLANNED FOR THE DAY.**

The relationship between father and son was torn asunder that day and, sadly, was never restored.

I wonder how many times we may have been guilty of grieving those who had been anticipating spending quality time with us. How many promises have we broken that seemed small to us, but were significant to another person? _More importantly, how have we grieved the heart of God by failing to keep our promises that we made to Him?_

LET US KEEP OUR PROMISES!

#  DAY 193 (July 12)

# SEPARATION!

John 11:25-26: I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?

One of the realities of getting older is saying farewell to loved ones and friends. Many times they are younger than we are. I have learned that none of us can be assured of how long we will live; but what about the idea of separation?

If you are anything like me, you are heartsick when a loved one dies or even moves away from your area. I have been grieved to hear of homes that have been shattered by separation and divorce. I want things to remain!

Death is often thought of as the ultimate separation. FOR THOSE WHO DO NOT KNOW THE LORD JESUS AS THEIR PERSONAL SAVIOR, DEATH IS JUST THAT! But what about those of us who have our name written in the Book of Life. There is an answer!

THE ANSWER IS THAT WE CAN SEE OUR LOVED ONES AGAIN.

The assurance the Bible gives us is that those who believe in Jesus will never die. That means when we as believers leave this world, we will be joined together for eternity. There will never be separation. I LOOK FORWARD TO THAT DAY!

#  DAY 194 (July 13)

# GIVING!

1 Corinthians 16:1-2

Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I have given order to the churches of Galatia, even so do ye Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come.

There has been so much greedy preaching about tithing and giving that I seldom write about it. I have witnessed religious hucksters who promote spiritual causes that often tend to only increase their own standard of living. I fail to understand how those ministers can justify owning million-dollar estates and still beg for money to assist the needy.

Leaving all of the shallow teaching and high living behind, what does the Word of God say about how we are to give? Some have noticed that the tithe (giving 10%) is only mentioned in the Old Testament. That is true; however, in the New Testament we are told to give as God has prospered us.

Jesus repeatedly taught that a true believer must recognize that everything belongs to the Lord. That being the case, we must always stop and ask the Lord what He would have us do with the money He has entrusted to us.

Receiving and giving in the name of the Lord is an exciting way to live. It frees us of the burden of the riches of this old world. It takes our eyes off things and shows us the value of our relationship with Him and investing in things of eternal value.

#  DAY 195 (July 14)

# JOY FOR OTHERS!

Philippians 2:3-4

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.

I recall hearing a seminary professor tell how easy it is to downplay the things that are meaningful or important to another person. When they have achieved something meaningful in them, it is easy for us to ignore it or treat it with an attitude of indifference.

THIS PROFESSOR SHARED HOW HE WOULD GO OUT OF HIS WAY TO GET EXCITED ABOUT ANOTHER PERSON'S ACCOMPLISHMENT. If someone told him about a verse they had memorized, he would explode with joy and congratulations. IT WAS JUST THE RESPONSE THAT PERSON NEEDED. It seems that others in his life had always made him feel inferior and worthless. He went on to become a dynamic spiritual leader in his area.

It does not have to be spiritual accomplishments that we give praise to. We had a small man with a severe learning disorder in a church that I served as an associate pastor. He could barely talk, but he loved to bowl. Somehow I discovered he carried a small book where he recorded his bowling scores. Each week I made a point of looking at his book and getting excited about his scores. They were sometimes 25 or 30, but I tried to make him feel exceptional. It not only made Roscoe feel special, it made me feel that I had met an angel unaware.

**Who do you know that needs to be lifted by your approval? What words can you speak or actions can you show that will make that person feel special?** **TRY IT!**

# DAY 196 (July 13)

# ONE FLESH!

Genesis 2:24

That is why a man leaves his father and mother and is united to his wife, and they become one flesh.

**July 10, 1952** , was a blistering hot day in Nampa, Idaho. I am not sure what the official high was for the day, but it was well over 100 degrees. **A great day for a wedding! Actually, it was!**

**OUR WEDDING DAY WAS A DAY THAT JOYCE AND I HAD BEEN LOOKING FORWARD TO FOR A LONG TIME.** We had been sweethearts all through high school and had known for years that we would be married when we graduated. It was only a month after graduation that we pledged our love to each other and became **ONE FLESH.**

In a day when couples usually live together before marriage, our story might seem old fashioned and dated.

The excuse that many people give for violating the Word of God by living together is that they want to be sure that their marriage will work. The fact of the matter is that a higher percentage of these arrangements end in heartache and divorce.

**GOD ESTABLISHED A BEAUTIFUL GIFT WHEN HE CREATED THE MARRIAGE UNION BETWEEN A MAN AND WOMAN.** This is a sacred gift and one that we need to cherish. Joyce and I had such a fantastic life together that it is hard to explain it to others. _I personally do not think that it requires a formula or prior training. It is simply becoming ONE FLESH!_

#  DAY 197 (July 16)

# OUR ENEMY!

1 John 2:15-16

Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them. For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world.

Many years ago there was a popular comic strip called Pogo. It featured a possum named Pogo and was set in the Okefenokee Swamp in Florida.

Pogo and the other characters in the swamp were certain that they were about to be attacked by an unknown enemy. As they searched for this army they happened to look into the water and discovered who they were looking for **. They returned to the others who had been waiting and announced:** **WE HAVE MET THE ENEMY AND THEY IS US!**

PRIDE is such a persistent transgression that we need to be aware at all times of the many ways it can appear. A preoccupation with our feelings may seem to be a normal reaction to what we are enduring, but it may also be a pride of self that seeks to keep self in control rather than allowing the HOLY SPIRIT to be in control.

The accumulation of things may at first appear to just be a desire to collect possessions that are special. But closer observation can reveal that the reason we collect things is to own something, or to possess more some-things than others have.

Need I go into the mania to seek a title that inflates the ego? **DOCTOR, MASTER, BISHOP, REVEREND, HOLINESS—GRAND POOBAH**! Some titles may be earned, but even if they have been granted after years of study, they must never be paraded. _Mom and Dad gave me the name Cecil, and that is a good enough title for me._

# DAY 198 (July 17)

# THE KILLDEER!

Isaiah 34:15

The owl will nest there and lay eggs, she will hatch them, and care for her young under the shadow of her wings; there also the falcons will gather, each with its mate.

THE KILLDEER IS A VERY UNIQUE BIRD. IT SELDOM FLIES, BUT SPENDS MOST OF THE TIME ON THE GROUND.

We once owned a house that overlooked a flat piece of ground with very little vegetation. (Actually, it was our yard that had not yet been planted with grass.)

We noticed that a mother Killdeer had made a nest in a very shallow depression, which seemed foolish since the eggs would be so vulnerable. It was then that we observed the remarkable antics of this bird.

Anytime a threat approached the nest, the mother bird would suddenly go into an extraordinary bit of acting, fluttering and flopping as if she was wounded.

When the intruder began to follow the apparently wounded bird, she moved further and further away from the nest calling out the characteristic KILLDEER, KILLDEER, KILLDEER, from which comes its name.

Once the threat had been lured far away from the nest, the Killdeer would suddenly take wing and fly away to safety.

WHEN EVERYTHING WAS SAFE, SHE WOULD RETURN TO CONTINUE THE TASK OF HATCHING HER EGGS.

It is wonderful to realize that God has created these seemingly defenseless Killdeer with such unique methods of protecting their eggs.

**He also has unique ways of defending us. When we place our trust in Him, He will care for us. In Matthew 6:13, the prayer our Lord taught His disciples to pray, are these marvelous words of promise:** **LEAD US NOT INTO TEMPTATION, BUT DELIVER US FROM THE EVIL ONE. HE WILL ANSWER OUR PRAYER!**

Anytime a threat approached the nest, the mother bird would suddenly go into an extraordinary bit of acting, fluttering and flopping as if she was wounded.

# DAY 199 (July 18)

# VALUABLE!

Mark 8:35-36

For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for Me and for the gospel will save it. What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul?

I HAVE KNOWN MANY WEALTHY PEOPLE IN MY LIFE. SOME HAVE BLESSED THOSE AROUND THEM, WHILE OTHERS TIGHTLY GRASP ONTO THE THINGS OF THIS WORLD AS IF THEY WILL BRING THEM EVERLASTING JOY.

Today I had the responsibility and privilege of sitting in the living room of a magnificent home. The view from the picture window was breathtaking. You could see a portion of the Puget Sound and Mount Rainier in the distance. The landscaping was something that one would expect to see in a home and garden magazine.

However, there was one sight that detracted from this idyllic scene. The husband and wife sat across from me and he had oxygen supply tubes in his nostrils. He shared with me that cancer was rampant in his body and the doctors had given him only a few weeks to live.

All of the things of life become of little value when death is so near. I had the opportunity of sharing the gospel message with him and was able to pray with him. As I drove away from this beautiful home, I realized once again that the things of this world hold no real value when compared with eternity.

**It is time for each of us to determine what is cherished in our life. What do we value so highly here on earth that it prevents us from placing our priorities on things that will last forever?** **WHAT TREASURES ARE WE LAYING UP IN GLORY THAT WILL HAVE ETERNAL VALUE?**

# DAY 200 (July 19)

# WRONG CAB!

Proverbs 16:25-26

There is a way that appears to be right, but in the end it leads to death. The appetite of laborers works for them; their hunger drives them on.

Sometimes things happen in life that are both humorous and tragic. When I was a police officer, I worked the graveyard shift so I could attend college classes during the day. The early hours of the morning were usually very calm.

One night, in the wee hours of the morning, things were quiet and to be honest, very boring. SUDDENLY I SAW A MAN STAGGER INTO THE STREET AND WAVE FOR ME TO STOP. As soon as I stopped, he opened the rear passenger side door and jumped in. _It took a moment for him to realize that he had not jumped into a taxi and that I was not a taxi driver._

I TOLD HIM THAT I WAS NOT A CAB DRIVER, BUT I WAS GOING TO GIVE HIM A LIFT. I WAS EVEN GOING TO PROVIDE HIM WITH A ROOM UNTIL HE WAS SOBER ENOUGH TO TELL THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A CAB AND A COP CAR. PERHAPS I SPARED THE MAN'S LIFE BY GETTING HIM TO A SAFE ENVIRONMENT FOR A FEW HOURS.

As we read this Scripture from Proverbs, we are reminded that just because we think something is right does not mean that it is right. People have been duped into believing that if we do enough good deeds, we will make it to heaven. Wrong cab! If we give enough money to the church we will be blessed. Wrong cab! If we just believe in God, that is enough. Wrong cab!

There is only one way to get into the cab that is bound for heaven. We must confess and repent of our sins and invite Jesus Christ into our heart. We must be born again.

# DAY 201 (July 20)

# **RIGHT CAB!**

# LISTENING TO THE WORD!

2 Timothy 2:1-2: You then, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others.

I fear that many times pastors and evangelists think that they are called upon to be performers. THE SHOW MUST GO ON AND THEY ARE THE MAIN ATTRACTION TO ENTHRALL THEIR CONGREGATION. They will often read other's sermons, attempting to deliver them in their own words, and hoping it will all sound acceptable.

I once read a sermon outline in a periodical designed for ministers. It provided several sermons complete with illustrations and humorous stories. A few weeks later I was visiting a church and was stunned to hear the pastor use one of those sermons and try to make it sound like one of his own. _I could only imagine how empty he must have felt following his message._

TO BE ABSOLUTELY HONEST, I FREQUENTLY FEEL THAT MY MIND IS BLANK WHEN I START TO WRITE ONE OF THESE DAILY OFFERINGS.

I know that they are being read all over the world and question what I am going to say that day. **It is then that I pray and ask the Lord to give me the words to touch just one person who is in need of such a word at that time.**

It has been my experience that it is the very Word of God that speaks for me. When I search the Scriptures and then apply the practical things of life, the Holy Spirit uses my feeble words to minister.

IT IS NOT WHAT I HAVE DONE, BUT WHAT THE LORD HAS DONE WHEN I OPEN MYSELF TO ALLOW HIM TO FILL MY HEART.

# DAY 202 (July 21)

# FILL 'ER UP!

Romans 15:13

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

When I was in high school I worked part-time for my brother-in-law who operated a small gas station. _Those were the days when there was no such thing as self-service._ IT WAS ALWAYS FULL SERVICE, WHICH MEANT PUMPING THE GAS, WASHING THE WINDOWS, CHECKING UNDER THE HOOD, AND CHECKING THE TIRE PRESSURE. ALL OF THAT FOLLOWED THE REQUEST TO "FILL 'ER UP!"

What a sad change of attitude in our current culture. The only request that is made today is **WHETHER WE WISH TO PAY BY CASH OR CREDIT CARD.** There is most often a lack of service. You might say that the "SERVICE" stations are more interested in what you can do to make their lives easier rather than the other way around.

I want to get off that pet peeve and focus on the spiritual implications we find in this verse. The Apostle Paul is saying a prayer for his readers _. His supplication is that we might be filled up with joy and peace. I like that! He does include a condition for the Lord to FILL 'ER UP! We are to trust in Him._

As I recall those long ago days at the service station, it was with an air of expectancy that customers drove up to the pumps. In like manner we need to draw near to the heart of God and expect to be filled with His high octane dose of joy and peace.

I LIKE THAT! FILL ME UP, LORD!

#  DAY 203 (July 22)

# DO NOT DO IT!

Proverbs 3:5-7

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight. Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and shun evil.

Have you ever found yourself in the midst of a situation that seemed to have no solution? I am tempted to describe one or two, but if I do it may prevent you from relating to your own particular no-win situation. How do we cope?

In this Scripture in Proverbs, we see there are two things we are cautioned to avoid:

  1. Relying on our own understanding.

  2. Being wise in our own eyes.

These are hard for us to accomplish since we want to be in control of things around us.

When we encounter evil or injustice, we want to rise up with righteous indignation and correct the situation. James 1:19-20 makes it clear that our fervent anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires.

If we are to avoid operating in our own strength, is there anything we can do when faced with the problems that confront us? The answer is very clear. It begins with trusting in the Lord with all of our heart. THAT MEANS LETTING GO AND LETTING GOD HAVE CONTROL.

_Secondly, we must acknowledge God in all of our ways._ The Hebrew word for acknowledge is the word yada. It means in part to learn more and more about God and His ways. **WE DO THAT AS WE REST IN HIM, STUDY HIS WORD, AND DISCOVER MORE OF HIS WONDERFUL ATTRIBUTES.**

# DAY 204 (July 23)

# WHAT WILL YOU GIVE?

Matthew 16:25-26

For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it. What good will it be for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul? Or what can anyone give in exchange for their soul?

I was amazed watching an auto auction from Monterey, California, which I understand lasted at least three days. _As the cars were rolled into the arena, the bids were astronomical._ At least one of the autos was sold for over three million dollars. **WOW!**

We have all heard reports of people who pay huge sums of money to purchase some rare item. The reality is that regardless of the value of the item they now own, it is not going to bring eternal satisfaction.

I recall the story Dr. E, a fellow minister from Shelton, Washington, shared with me. He and his family lived in Sweden during the dark days of WWII. Toward the end of the war the local German commander was enraged that many of the civilians were committing acts of sabotage. HE ISSUED A DECREE THAT ALL MINISTERS WERE TO BE EXECUTED IN A FEW DAYS AS AN EXAMPLE TO THE PEOPLE.

Dr. E said that his family owned a costly vase that had great value to the family. They had been very strict in preventing their children from even playing near the vase. But when the death decree was sent, he suddenly viewed the vase from a different perspective. It now held very little value in relation to what he now faced. (Ultimately, the German officer was transferred and the execution was cancelled.)

WHAT IS IMPORTANT IN YOUR LIFE? WHAT WILL YOU GIVE? THE LORD EXPECTS US TO GIVE HIM EVERYTHING. IN RETURN HE GIVES US PEACE THAT SURPASSES ALL UNDERSTANDING.

# DAY 205 (July 24)

# GET RID OF GREED!

Matthew 6:31-33: So do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.

When I read of the saints who have laid everything they possess on the line for Christ, I hunger for such commitment. It seems like I have given so little compared to those who have given their all.

There is something about total dependency on the Lord that inspires faith. Not knowing where the next meal is coming from, or how we will be able to clothe ourselves, draws us closer to God.

It is easy to be critical of modern religious personalities that reside in luxurious mansions, drive magnificent automobiles, wear designer clothing, and indulge in many other excesses. I certainly can never condone such extravagant living, but that is not the end of it.

It is not necessary for us to live in the lap of luxury to be greedy for the things of this world. Anything (and I mean anything) that becomes more important than our walk with the Lord is wrong.

We can rid ourselves of greedy living by recognizing that everything we own belongs to Him and constantly seeking His leadership on how to invest the things He has entrusted to our care. "But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness."

#  DAY 207 (July 26)

# **THIS INSTANT!**

2 Corinthians 6:1-2

"We then, as workers together with Him, also plead with you not to receive the grace of God in vain. For He says: 'In an acceptable time I have heard you, and in the day of salvation I have helped you.' (Isaiah 49:8) Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation."

AS A BOY I REMEMBER THE FRUSTRATED VOICE OF MY MOTHER TELLING ME TO DO SOMETHING THIS INSTANT _! I am sure there had been previous requests, demands, and threats before the words, this instant!_

**Those were the days before instant mashed potatoes (Ugh!), instant pudding and instant credit.** We did not hear of instant anything except responding quickly. Isn't it interesting that with all of the instant time saving things we have in our modern day we feel the time crunch more than ever? _We now do not have the time to visit family and friends because we are too busy operating our instant time saving devices._

There is one thing that is always instantaneous. THAT IS OBEDIENCE TO GOD'S WORD. There is no way we can afford to be slow in responding to the infallible call of the Lord for our immediate obedience.

When God calls we are to respond immediately. ONE THING I LEARNED IN MY MILITARY TRAINING WAS TO OBEY ORDERS IMMEDIATELY WITHOUT QUESTION. _There may be a time when immediate response will save our life. To stop and ask why may be fatal._ It is the same way we must respond to the Spirit's leadership.

TRUST AND OBEY FOR THERE IS NO OTHER WAY TO BE HAPPY IN JESUS, BUT TO TRUST AND OBEY! JOHN H. SAMMIS (1846-1919)

# DAY 208 (July 27)

# THE GIFT OF LOVE!

John 13:34-35

A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.

For those of you who have asked about the welfare of my precious wife, Joyce, I am pleased to let you know that the bumps, bruises, and laceration are healing quite nicely. THAT IS EASY FOR ME TO SAY, SINCE IT IS JOYCE WHO HAS THE INJURIES. HA!

During these past few days I have been given one of the greatest gifts the Lord has in store for all of us husbands: _To love our wife in the same way that Jesus loved the church and gave Himself up for her._

It is very easy to have a selfish love that is interested in what benefit it will produce for us. For instance, we might be willing to rub another person's back if they promise to rub ours. But what if the other person is not able to reciprocate? It is at this time we are gifted to be able to love sacrificially.

Rather than being disturbed and perturbed when a loved one becomes incapacitated, we need to thank the Lord that we have been given the true GIFT OF LOVE.

WE CAN ASK THE LORD FOR SPECIAL STRENGTH, BUT WE NEED TO HAVE AN ATTITUDE OF GRATITUDE INSTEAD OF A GROANING COMPLAINT. THANK YOU, LORD!

#  DAY 209 (July 28)

# OUR REFUGE!

Isaiah 25:4-5

You have been a refuge for the poor, a refuge for the needy in their distress, a shelter from the storm and a shade from the heat. For the breath of the ruthless is like a storm driving against a wall and like the heat of the desert. You silence the uproar of foreigners; as heat is reduced by the shadow of a cloud, so the song of the ruthless is stilled.

IN TIMES OF TROUBLE AND TRIAL WE NEED A REFUGE.

Almost on a daily basis we watch the Weather Channel and observe people who have been confronted with some type of emergency.

YOU CAN SEE THEM URGENTLY SEARCHING FOR A PLACE OF REFUGE.

**It is not just weather-related emergencies such as storms or floods that place people in jeopardy. Wildfires roar into neighborhoods and often cut off all means of escape. Citizens are in a panic searching for a place of refuge**.

In war-torn regions of the world, communities are surrounded by enemies who are reputed to show no sympathy.

In the times of living in the shadow of death, those who are in jeopardy are searching for a place of refuge.

YOU MAY BE FACING AN ORDEAL IN YOUR LIFE AT THIS VERY MOMENT THAT CAUSES YOU TO CRY OUT FOR REFUGE.

I want to assure you, on the basis of the Word of God, He is the place of refuge. The God who created the world and provides salvation to all who come to Him will wrap His arms around you and bring you to the eternal refuge He has provided for us. PRAISE THE LORD!

# DAY 210 (July 29)

# FLESH VERSUS SPIRIT!

Galatians 6:7-8

Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life.

For years I have had various people assail me with the idea that we could have anything and everything our heart desired if we only had enough faith. **They claim that all sickness and poverty is of the devil, so all we have to do is have enough faith to name it and claim it! FOOLISHNESS!**

There is a spiritual principle that overshadows all of the others: God is the ONE who is in control. There is no way we can control God. IT DOES NOT MATTER HOW MANY GOOD THINGS WE ACCOMPLISH OR HOW RIGHTEOUS WE MAY BE, HE IS THE SUPREME COMMANDER IN CHIEF.

Having spent over twelve years in the military, I am very familiar with the Chain of Command. Briefly, it means that those who possess a higher rank must be obeyed and shown proper respect.

The problem we have today is that there are far too many leaders teaching that all can be healthy, wealthy, and wise. All you need to do is have faith.

The reality is that God has chosen to lead some of His most faithful servants through the valley of the shadow of death. Thank God for the assurance in **PSALM 23:4. EVEN THOUGH WE GO THROUGH THE DARK VALLEYS OF THIS OLD LIFE, WE NEED NOT FEAR FOR HE IS NEAR AND HIS ROD AND STAFF WILL PROTECT AND COMFORT. THAT IS THE WEALTH I DESIRE!**

#  DAY 211 (July 30)

# MISUNDERSTOOD!

Deuteronomy 32:29

If only they were wise and would understand this and discern what their end will be!

When I became the pastor of a church in central Oregon, I was informed that the custodial services were performed by a young woman who lived with her mother and brother. THE FAMILY DID NOT ATTEND THE CHURCH BUT, STRANGE AS IT SOUNDS, THEY WOULD SHOW THEIR GUESTS THROUGH THE CHURCH WITH PRIDE.

After I had been there for a few years, two members of our congregation advised me that the young woman had been hired by the lumber mill.

IF SHE GAVE UP THE CHURCH CUSTODIAL JOB, THEY WANTED TO ASSUME THE TASK AS PART OF THEIR MINISTRY.

I phoned the young woman with the intention of congratulating her on the new job and to ask if she still planned to continue our custodial work.

Her brother answered my call and I heard him announce, **"it's THE PREACHER.** **HE PROBABLY IS GOING TO FIRE YOU."**

His comment seemed to set the tone for our conversation. She ignored my congratulations and when _I asked about her intentions for continuing her work at the church, she said she quit! Wow!_

I TRIED TO EXPLAIN THAT MY REASON FOR CALLING WAS ONLY TO FIND OUT WHAT HER PLANS WERE.

A short time later, she (along with her mother and brother) came to our home and read me the riot act about not having the decency to fire her in person.

I was never able to convince them of my true intentions all the time I was there.

THERE ARE MANY PEOPLE WHO WILL MISUNDERSTAND US AND EVEN OPPOSE US. THE ONLY THING WE CAN DO IS KEEP OUR EYES ON THE LORD AND ALLOW HIM TO DIRECT OUR PATH AND DEAL WITH THOSE WHO CHOOSE TO MISUNDERSTAND OUR WORDS AND ACTIONS.

# DAY 212 (July 31)

#   ACTIONS-ASSURANCES-PROMISES!

Isaiah 41:10

Fear thou not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, yea, I will help you, yea, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.

WHY IS IT THAT SOME VERSES STAY WITH YOU ALL THROUGH YOUR LIFE?

Some say they have a "LIFE VERSE."

I might not go that far, but this is one of the first verses I memorized as a young boy.

At the time I thought it was special because of what it PROMISED.

Isaiah 41:10: Fear thou not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, yea, I will help you, yea, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.

Throughout my life, however, I have found that it is true in PRACTICE!

As I have meditated on and put this verse into practice across these many years, I have discovered that there are two actions that I am to take, two assurances that God gives, and three promises that follow.

THIS VERSE TELLS US THAT:

  * We are not to fear nor be dismayed.

  * Those are the two actions that we are to take.

It may sound easy, but when the trials and tests of life arise, these become tasks that demand the assurances we find from the Lord: He is with us and He is our God.

As great as those assurances are, there is more. God adds His three precious promises:

  1. I will strengthen you, yea,

  2. I will help you, yea,

  3. I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.

I CHALLENGE YOU TO APPLY THIS VERSE TO YOUR LIFE FOR THE NEXT 30 DAYS. SEE WHAT A DIFFERENCE YOU WILL DISCOVER AWAITING YOU.

 ACTIONS-ASSURANCES-PROMISES!

Isaiah 41:10

Fear thou not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, yea, I will help you, yea, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.

# DAY 213 (August 1)

# WHEN DID IT HAPPEN?

Isaiah 46:4

Even to your old age and gray hairs I am He, I am He who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you.

I recently read a newspaper article that described someone as an "elderly" man. AS I SCANNED THROUGH THE PIECE, I WAS SHOCKED TO LEARN THAT THE MAN WAS TWO YEARS YOUNGER THAN I AM. If he was categorized as an elderly man, what does that make me? I guess the answer lies in the eyes of the beholder!

My mom used to have a rental property behind her house. A widower lived there and she always referred to him as "the old man." One day I challenged Mom by reminding her that he was three years younger than she was. (That did not go over well!)

Sometimes I observe thirty-somethings and wonder at what point are they no longer considered young people? That is a tough question. In a culture that worships youth, many hang onto that young-person designation until it screams!

Can I let you in on a little secret? It is okay to allow yourself to mature (that's a kind word for getting old). WE NEED THE WISDOM AND SOLIDITY THAT COMES WITH EXPERIENCE.

We find people in Scripture who became the greatest blessing in their later years. I have concluded that age is not a determiner. _We need to put our shoulder to the wheel and be more effective in serving Jesus each and every day._

#  DAY 214 (August 2)

# RUDENESS!

Romans 12:9-13

Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with the Lord's people who are in need. Practice hospitality.

One Friday I had to stop by the pharmacy to pick up some prescriptions. There was a large crowd waiting to be served and my number was well down the list. A teenager and his mother were sitting near me. She asked the boy if they needed to pick up his sister.

The young man mumbled a snarly reply and continued playing a game on his cell phone. The mother asked him a second time and received an even more rude and disrespectful reply.

I was curious to how the mother would respond to such an inappropriate behavior. Rather than displaying concern, however, she simply fell silent and became wrapped up in her own cell phone game.

IT IS SAD THAT WE HAVE NOT BEEN TAUGHT THE IMPORTANCE OF POLITENESS. One generation after another is wrapped up in their own little worlds of cell phones, laptops, and hand-held devices that isolate them from reality.

Spiritually, we can become so preoccupied with the inconsequential details of our life that we are rude to others...but far more critical, we are rude to God.

Rather than paying attention and listening to His voice, we snarl and become insolent. FORGIVE US, LORD!

#  DAY 215 (August 3)

# LISTEN AND OBEY!

Isaiah 55:6-7

Seek the Lord while He may be found; call on Him while He is near. Let the wicked forsake their ways and the unrighteous their thoughts. Let them turn to the Lord, and He will have mercy on them, and to our God, for He will freely pardon.

I ONCE HEARD AN ILLUSTRATION THAT STILL SENDS SHIVERS UP AND DOWN MY SPINE.

Picture a man praying to seek the blessing of the Lord for something he is about to do. THE HOLY SPIRIT SPEAKS IN A LOUD VOICE THAT THE MAN IS NOT TO DO THAT THING.

After waiting for a time, he prays again . . . and again the voice of the Lord says, "NO." But this time it's not as loud.

Each time the man asks the Lord about the thing he wants to do, the voice of the Lord becomes softer and softer until finally the man can hear nothing when he asks.

Joyfully, the man goes ahead with his plan, declaring that it must be okay with God because when he asked he heard nothing.

That is such a distressing illustration. But stop and ask yourself how many times you (or I) do much the same thing. Rather than spending the time to sincerely seek out the Lord's will in a matter, we rush ahead with our plans and then try to get God to bless our actions. It is like putting the cart ahead of the horse!

God delights in having His children spend time with Him and follow His direction rather than doing their own thing.

SPOILED AND SELF-WILLED CHILDREN ARE NEVER EASY TO BE AROUND.

SPOILED AND SELF-WILLED BELIEVERS ARE NO EASIER TO DEAL WITH EITHER.

# LISTEN AND OBEY!

### Isaiah 55:6-7

### Seek the Lord while He may be found; call on Him while He is near. Let the wicked forsake their ways and the unrighteous their thoughts. Let them turn to the Lord, and He will have mercy on them, and to our God, for He will freely pardon.

#  DAY 216 (August 4)

# A SERVANT SPIRIT!

Philippians 2:3-4

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.

Today I had a wonderful conversation with a couple who had been members of a church I once pastored in Burns, Oregon. I inquired about a former member, Margaret, who had moved to Boulder, Colorado. In view of the recent terrible floods, I was concerned about her.

The news was both good and bad. Margaret had passed away a couple of years ago, which in itself was both good news and bad news. Bad that she is no longer with us, but good in that she is now with the Lord and all of those who had gone on before. Other good news was that Margaret had celebrated her 100th birthday not long before she died. Not too many are able to achieve that milestone.

As we reminisced about her life, we recalled that Margaret was a wealthy woman who lived a very frugal life...always ready to put others ahead of herself. One of the things that we remembered was the way she willingly cleaned the bathrooms, never considering herself as too good to do the menial tasks. She had a sweet servant spirit!

I am not sure how I will be remembered when I have gone to be with the Lord, but I know what I would like for it to be. I fervently pray that I will be remembered as a simple servant who wasn't too good to do the grungy tasks.

#  DAY 217 (August 5)

# THE BEST GIFT!

Ephesians 2:8-10

For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.

There are gifts and then there are gifts! I am looking at a gift right now that is very precious to me. It is a counted cross stitch picture showing an eagle in flight and the words of Isaiah 40:31:

" _They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength, they shall mount up with wings as eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint."_

The value of this picture is not in the cost of materials, but in the love that went into producing it. It was a gift from our daughter Brenda on my birthday in March 1991, before her death in July of that year. She had been working on it for months and wanted to live long enough to complete it. **I WILL CHERISH THAT GIFT ALL MY LIFE!** I cannot imagine being offered that gift and refusing it. It cost Brenda so much!

Jesus lived His life with the purpose of offering us the most precious gift of all time—ETERNAL LIFE. It is offered freely to us, but at **THE COST OF HIS OWN LIFE.**

_As amazing as it may seem, most people reject this most precious of all gifts._ If you have never received it yourself, I urge you to open your heart right now and invite Him in.

If you need help, go to www.PastorCecil.com.

# DAY 218 (August 6)

# BE ON GUARD!

2 Peter 3:17-18

Therefore, dear friends, since you have been forewarned, be on your guard so that you may not be carried away by the error of the lawless and fall from your secure position. But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be glory both now and forever! Amen.

As a former city police officer and an Air Force Combat Missile Commander, I know what it is to be on guard. I have spent many wakeful nights to insure others are safe in their beds. THE THREAT OF ENEMIES IS DETERRED BY THOSE WHO ARE CONSTANTLY ON GUARD.

It is an awesome responsibility to be placed in a position of trust. As a police officer I was able to break up family disputes and save a business owner from losing a delivery truck that was about to be stolen. In the Air Force I stood ready to defend our nation in the event an enemy launched missiles toward our shores.

Spiritually, I feel the need to defend the inerrant Word of God against the relentless attacks of liberal theologians that believe a committee is able to set aside the absolutes of Scripture. Each of us should guard and defend the Word of God.

The best way to be on guard at all times is to follow what this passage in Second Peter advises:

" **BUT GROW IN THE GRACE AND KNOWLEDGE OF OUR LORD AND SAVIOR JESUS CHRIST."**

The more we study God's Word and commune with Him in prayer, the more we will be able to STAND GUARD.

#  DAY 219 (August 7)

# GODLINESS PLUS!

1 Timothy 6:6-9

But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that. Those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction.

Have you noticed that there are a lot of miserable Christians out there? What I mean is that they act as if they are missing out on the "good life" by being a Christian. And that is simply a lie from the devil.

There is an important element of Christian discipleship that is often lacking...it is the spirit of contentment. We might call it the "AHHH" factor. That state of satisfaction should be a vital part of each believer.

As we consider Paul's words to Timothy, we discover that he is teaching his son in the faith that he needs to have contentment in living the life of faith. It is almost like he is raising the eyes of Timothy to catch a glimpse of the glory that is waiting in heaven for him, as well as all of us who are born again.

WE CAME INTO THE WORLD WITH NOTHING OF THE WORLD'S GOODS, AND WE WILL DEPART THE SAME WAY. IT IS ONLY OUR SPIRITUAL WEALTH THAT MATTERS.

We need to evaluate our own walk of faith.

Do we have a contentment that transcends the "STUFF" of the world?

DO WE LIVE FOR THE PRESENT OR FOR ETERNITY?

# DAY 220 (August 8)

# OUR CALLING!

2 Timothy 1:9-10

He has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of His own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time, but it has now been revealed through the appearing of our Savior, Christ Jesus, who has destroyed death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel.

DURING MY LIFETIME I HAVE HAD OPPORTUNITY TO SPEND SOME TIME IN FRUIT ORCHARDS AND CANNOT RECALL EVER HEARING GROANS FROM THE TREES AS THEY PRODUCED LUSCIOUS FRUIT.

I have also walked down the long rows of onions while slicing off the seed pods and never once heard the onion plants groaning as they matured. The trees and the onions did the thing they were designed for—they grew and produced after their own kind.

Sometimes it seems that we try our best to be something other than what God designed us to be. In writing this second letter to Timothy, the Apostle Paul clears the deck and lays it out for all of us to see. **WE ARE ALL CALLED TO A HOLY LIFE.**

Paul is quick to add that there is nothing that Timothy can do to merit this holy life, and that point carries down to us as well.

The holy life is not achieved by what we accomplish, but by what Jesus has done for us from the very beginning of time.

God's great and magnificent grace! Not what we deserve, but what we need. The Lord knows our inability to be holy and He has provided Himself as our strength. As we turn our life over to Him, our roots sink down into the rich soil of His love and He becomes our holiness. **ALLOW HIM TO BE YOUR ALL IN ALL.**

# DAY 221 (August 9)

#  DOING THE LORD'S WILL!

James 4:13-17

Now listen, you who say, 'Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money.' Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. Instead, you ought to say, 'If it is the Lord's will, we will live and do this or that.' As it is, you boast in your arrogant schemes. All such boasting is evil. If anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do and doesn't do it, it is sin for them.

Hardly a day goes by when word comes that someone has experienced some sort of catastrophic occurrence. As a pastor I seem to be a conduit of these reports that have an impact on the lives of those closest to the victims.

It is not necessarily restricted to the death of a loved one, although that is certainly one of the examples. A healthy individual may be going about his or her regular business when a stroke occurs—that healthy person has suddenly become an invalid. A lab report may be returned that reveals the presence of cancer—the life of that individual and the entire family has now changed dramatically.

Rather than focusing our attention on these debilitating examples, we need to bring the reality of change into our life. If we have not prepared ourselves spiritually for these circumstances, we will be flattened out.

James gives us a strong dose of reality. Life is just a mist that will soon vanish. Rather than putting all of our effort into the things of this world, we need to make preparation for eternity.

IT BEGINS WITH BEING BORN AGAIN FOLLOWED BY A MATURING AS WE CONSTANTLY SEEK GOD'S WILL FOR OUR LIFE.

# DAY 222 (August 10)

# DANGER IS LURKING!

1 Peter 5:8-9

Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings.

When I was a boy our family spent a wonderful vacation at Yellowstone National Park. The beauty was breathtaking and we were within walking distance of a lake that was teeming with trout. (At least my imagination told me it was teeming with trout.)

I GRABBED MY FISHING ROD AND STARTED HEADING TOWARD THE LAKE. Between myself and the lake was a stand of willow bushes. I was making my way through the thick bushes when I SUDDENLY SAW A COW MOOSE AND HER BABY. She was heading in my direction with her hackles up and making warning snorts. **I FROZE AS SHE ROARED PAST ME ABOUT 20 FEET AWAY.**

I was so unnerved that I forgot about my great fishing expedition and headed back to the cabin. SINCE THEN I HAVE DISCOVERED THAT A MOTHER MOOSE WITH A CALF IS A DANGEROUS ANIMAL. Many people have been badly injured or even killed by this gigantic beast. A park ranger cautioned us to stay in clear areas or where paths had been cleared.

In our spiritual journey we may be tempted to wander into areas that are dangerous. **Our enemy is always watching for those who stray from the straight and narrow path of God's Word.**

WE MUST ALWAYS REMEMBER THAT DANGER IS LURKING WHEN WE COMPROMISE WHAT GOD HAS GIVEN US AS THE WAY, THE TRUTH, AND THE LIFE.

# DAY 223 (August 11)

# COME ON IN!

Matthew 11:28-30

Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.

It was a cold and snowy night in the Black Hills of South Dakota in the early winter of 1953. JOYCE AND I WERE ON OUR WAY TO MY FIRST DUTY ASSIGNMENT AT RAPID CITY. Soon after dark our car slid off the icy road and into a ditch. **WE WERE STUCK!**

We were a few miles from Keystone, South Dakota, and had noticed a house about halfway to the small town. We had our pet parakeet in a cage, so we covered him as best we could and started walking back in search of some sort of civilization. Thankfully, the lights were on in the house. **WE WERE HOPEFUL** they were friendly and would invite us to **COME ON IN!**

IT WAS A BLESSING TO BE WELCOMED INTO THESE STRANGER'S HOME. They graciously agreed to watch our parakeet for us while we went for a tow truck to pull us out. THE TOW DRIVER SAID THE ROAD WAS TOO SLICK FOR HIM AS WELL AND THAT WE WOULD HAVE TO WAIT UNTIL MORNING.

We spent a comfortable night in a hotel and the next day we collected our bird, left a bundle of money for the tow truck, and went our merry way.

WITHOUT JESUS IN OUR HEARTS WE ARE LIKE STRANDED MOTORISTS WHO FIND THEMSELVES IN UNFAMILIAR TERRITORY STUCK IN THE DEEP DITCHES OF LIFE. Our choices are to remain stuck in our predicament or to come to the Lord for His welcoming embrace. **What comfort to know that regardless of how dark our night or deep our ditch, He is always there to welcome us into His fold. COME ON IN!**

# DAY 224 (August 12)

# PR(I)DE!

Proverbs 16:18-19

Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall. Better to be lowly in spirit along with the oppressed, than to share plunder with the proud.

I once heard of a pastor who presented a sermon series on humility. He hammered against the sin of pride and the necessity for every true believer to be empty of self in order to defeat the terrible sin of pride and self-righteousness.

Following his final sermon on the topic, a little lady met him at the door. She thanked him profusely and said, "Pastor, this has been the most meaningful series. I do not have many gifts or talents, but I am so proud that I am humble." The pastor felt like gagging!

Pride is one of the most prevalent and insidious of sins. It creeps into our life as quiet as a butterfly. To understand this tendency toward pride, stop and listen to the many times the words "I" or "Me" dominate our conversations. Even our spiritual music often has a personal focus.

NONE OF US ARE IMMUNE TO THIS HORRIBLE SIN. The moment we take our eyes off the Lord and focus on ourselves, we are headed toward the slippery slope of pride. Surely the devil howls with delight every time he watches this scene unfold.

The way to deal with pride is to spend more time with the Lord and being concerned with others more than ourselves.

#  **DAY 225 (August 13)**

# REJOICE!

Psalm 96:11-12

Let the heavens rejoice, let the earth be glad; let the sea resound, and all that is in it. Let the fields be jubilant, and everything in them; let all the trees of the forest sing for joy.

THE PSALMIST IS CAUGHT UP IN THE ECSTASY OF PRAISE. THE HOLY SPIRIT FILLS HIM WITH THE REALIZATION THAT ALL OF CREATION WAS CREATED TO BRING PRAISE TO THE LORD.

It is by divine inspiration that the Psalmist informs his readers that everything is created to rejoice.

WATCH A MIGHTY STORM APPROACH AND SEE THE LIGHTENING FLASH ACROSS THE HEAVENS. IT IS FOLLOWED BY A ROAR OF THUNDER THAT CAN EVEN SHAKE THE GROUND. IT MAY FRIGHTEN SOME, BUT TO MY EAR IT IS THE VOICE OF PRAISE.

Sit beside a lovely mountain stream and you can almost hear the waters as they praise the Lord. Walk through a majestic forest and pause long enough to hear the breeze as it passes through the boughs. If you listen carefully you might be able to hear a symphony of praise to the God of the universe.

If all of creation is created for praise and adoration, where are you in that equation?

I FEAR THAT IT IS EASIER FOR US TO GRIPE AND COMPLAIN INSTEAD OF PRAISE AND REJOICE.

I would like to challenge you to step out of your pity party and rejoice for all of the wonders of God's great creation.

PRAISE & REJOICE

# DAY 226 (August 14)

# CAN GOD USE ME?"

2 Timothy 4:2

Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction.

" **CAN GOD USE ME?"** **YOU ASK.** **The answer is a resounding, "YES!"** Not only can He use you, He wants to use you. The only thing standing in the way (are you ready?)...is YOU!

As I allow my thoughts to wander across the years, I am reminded of those who have been able to minister under the direst of circumstances. A missionary I knew was rushed to a hospital with a ruptured appendix. While recuperating in a two-bed room, he was able to share his testimony with the patient in the other bed and lead him to the Lord.

During the cold war years there were many Christians who were imprisoned because of their belief in Jesus Christ. Rather than collapsing in a heap and feeling sorry for themselves, many used prison as an opportunity to preach the gospel.

In our own lives we have endured occasional tests and trials. As we surrendered each situation to the Lord, He opened doors of ministry that we could never have entered in any other way. It is not necessary for us to be perfect before He can use us—just forgiven. **IT IS NOT NECESSARY FOR US TO COMPLETE A COURSE OF STUDY TO BE USED—JUST AVAILABLE. IT IS NOT NECESSARY FOR US TO BE OF A CERTAIN AGE TO BE USED—JUST WILLING.**

Many of you are enduring trials and tests right now. Please do not allow what you are experiencing to paralyze you from being used. Step forward and volunteer to serve in God's army. Neither age nor physical limitations will disqualify. "God Doesn't Call The Qualified; He Qualifies The Called."

# DAY 227 (August 15)

# IDENTIFICATION!

John 13:34-35

A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.

IN POLICE WORK, ONE OF THE FIRST THINGS AN OFFICER WILL DO WHEN PULLING OVER A SPEEDER IS TO CHECK THE IDENTIFICATION OF THE DRIVER.

If things do not seem to be quite right, the identification of the passengers will also be checked. IN THIS MANNER IT IS OFTEN POSSIBLE TO CAPTURE INDIVIDUALS WITH OUTSTANDING ARREST WARRANTS.

At most sporting events you will see large numbers on the players' jerseys. On a team where everyone is dressed alike, this is how individual players are identified, as well as the positions they are playing.

Christians do not carry cards that identify themselves as born-again believers.

They do not have numbers on their clothing to indicate that they are playing some vital role as a member of the "Jesus team."

JESUS GAVE ALL TRUE BELIEVERS A COMMAND—NOT A SUGGESTION, BUT A COMMAND. WE ARE TO LOVE EACH OTHER.

Our manifestation of love for our brothers and sisters in Christ must be just as identifiable as carrying an ID card.

CAN YOU BE IDENTIFIED AS A LOVING MEMBER OF THE BODY OF CHRIST?

# DAY 228 (August 16)

# EYES ON THE GOAL!

Hebrews 10:23-25

Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for He who promised is faithful. And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.

"Back in the day" (Where did that expression come from?) I was married with two children and attending college full time. BACK THEN THE NORMAL WORK WEEK WAS 48 HOURS AND I WAS TAKING A FULL 18 CREDIT HOUR LOAD.

Each Spring I eagerly anticipated the goal of finishing the year. Then came the ultimate goal of completing all of my undergraduate work and receiving my degree.

Years later, when I was separated from my family on a remote assignment with the United States Air Force, I had the goal of being reunited with them. Those were a very long twelve months and I counted the days until we would be together once again. WHAT IS A GOAL YOU ARE ATTEMPTING TO COMPLETE?

For each of us believers, there is a heavenly home that is waiting for us. Jesus promised it to us and we know that His promises are always sure and true.

But that does not mean that we are to be idle while we wait for that wonderful day. While I was stationed in Newfoundland, I threw myself into the work of the Lord in all ways possible. My prayer is that somehow I made a difference in someone's life.

Our Scripture for today urges us to **"...SPUR ONE ANOTHER ON TOWARD LOVE AND GOOD DEEDS, NOT GIVING UP MEETING TOGETHER...."** _How are you doing in that regard?_

# DAY 229 (August 17)

# VULNERABLE!

Psalm 139:23-24

Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.

In all of my years of schooling, I think I dreaded the tests more than anything else. I wish I had been a better student and devoted myself more to the material, but if the truth were to be known, I failed to discipline myself.

I once heard a minister tell about how he had procrastinated in preparing a paper for a class. Late on the night before it was due he had run out of time and now it was do or die for him. He quickly sat down and scribbled out the following: **"I'M ALL PETERED OUT!"**

That expression comes from the actions of the Apostle Peter. He made wild boasts about what he would do:

  * he began to sink in the water;

  * he missed cutting off the head of a servant as Jesus was being arrested;

  * He denied even knowing Jesus.

THIS WAS ALL BECAUSE HE WAS ALL PETERED OUT.

The teacher gave him a passing grade and remarked that she had always wondered where that expression came from!

In today's Scripture the Psalmist is offering a vulnerable prayer. He is asking the Lord to search his inmost heart and thoughts to reveal anything offensive. He then asks for the leadership of the Lord to guide him to everlasting life. THAT IS MY PRAYER AS WELL.

# DAY 230 (August 18)

# **JOY!**

James 1:2-4

Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.

_When trials arise, the last thing we feel like doing is expressing pure joy. Let's face it . . . trials hurt._ **THEY HURT US PHYSICALLY, EMOTIONALLY, AND EVEN SPIRITUALLY.**

I have sat at the bedsides of saints who are just one heartbeat from eternity. Often the family grieves, but the grief is for themselves. They know that in a few moments that, hopefully, their loved one will be physically experiencing joy and contentment that is beyond our earthly imagination.

Another trial that we sometimes encounter is the emotional strain that results from the actions of our loved ones. These family members make unwise choices. Their sinful choices break our hearts and strain our patience. If only they would live pleasing to the Lord!

ACROSS THE YEARS OF MY MINISTRY I HAVE BEEN CONFRONTED BY CHRISTIANS WHO WERE SERIOUSLY WOUNDED BY THE WORDS AND/OR ACTIONS OF OTHER BELIEVERS. Many of these "WALKING WOUNDED" even left the church because of the hurtful actions of fellow Christians.

Can you identify with any of these areas, or even some others? Rather than being overcome with devastation, we can have victory. James gives us a simple solution, but one that is very difficult to follow. It starts with joy _. Choosing the joy of the Lord brings His power to mold and make us in His image._

# DAY 231 (August 19)

# ENOUGH!

Ephesians 6:13

Therefore take up the Whole Armor of God that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.

WHEN IS ENOUGH - ENOUGH?

By that I do not mean when can we stop dealing with all our problems, but rather when can we say we have done enough for the Lord?

I have to confess that in school, even graduate school, I only did enough to get by—just enough to get the grade I wanted or needed. No less, no more. Just enough.

As I write this, my mind suddenly reflects on doing those things that are of interest to me. When I was in high school I loved to play football. The long practice sessions were no problem because I was doing what I enjoyed doing. Game Day was just icing on the cake!

Then there is the love of my life, my precious wife Joyce. We were married for over 61 years and I never tired of doing things that pleased her and made things easier for her. There was no day too long to do something special that would delight her. In a manner of speaking, there I could never do enough!

My walk with the Lord has progressed over eighty years now. I can honestly say that I love Him more and more each day.

I WILL NEVER BE ABLE TO DO ENOUGH FOR THE PRECIOUS SAVIOR WHO DID ENOUGH TO PROVIDE MY ETERNAL SALVATION. THANK YOU, LORD!

# DAY 232 (August 20)

# NEVER DIE!

John 11:25-26

"Jesus said to her, 'I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live. And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die. Do you believe this?'

I have stood before congregations of family and friends to officiate at the funeral services of our daughter...then years later, my mother...and several more years later, my brother. IF THERE WAS NO CERTAINTY OF A HEAVEN WITH THE LORD, I WOULD NOT HAVE BEEN ABLE TO ACCOMPLISH THOSE DUTIES.

_What is it about the Christian life that gives us the hope of life beyond the grave?_ The answer is the life that Jesus lived, the sacrificial death He endured on the cross, and His victorious resurrection from the grave! **NOW THAT, MY DEAR FRIEND, IS WORTH GETTING EXCITED ABOUT!**

I recently read a book by Stuart Briscoe. He quoted a conversation between a Christian and an avowed atheist where the believer suggested that the two of them had widely differing views of the hereafter. If the atheist was right and there was nothing after this life, he would lose nothing.

But, if the Christian was correct in trusting in the Lord, then the atheist would lose everything and spend eternity in hell paying for his error.

We are surrounded by people who either are professing atheists or are simply failing to respond to the message of salvation. _It is time for us to be used of God to share the life-giving message of eternal salvation before it is too late._

EITHER WAY, WE WILL NEVER DIE!

# DAY 233 (August 21)

#   THE PERIL OF POPULARITY!

Acts 14:12, 19

Barnabas they called Zeus, and Paul they called Hermes because he was the chief speaker.... Then some Jews came from Antioch and Iconium and won the crowd over. They stoned Paul and dragged him outside the city, thinking he was dead.

I would like to let you in on a little secret. You probably are well aware of this truth, but I want to share it anyway—popularity is fleeting and fickle. Popularity polls can reverse in such a split second of time that it takes your breath away.

Some of the most tragic counseling sessions I have ever experienced were with people who had placed their confidence in what others thought of them. When the fickle finger of fame turned away from them, they were devastated.

Paul repeatedly received the accolades from crowds that elevated him to the position of a god. When he protested their adoration, they still proclaimed their faith in him and the God he preached. But it only lasted until trouble makers arrived and, suddenly, he was stoned and left for dead.

There has never been a time in my life when I experienced anything of that sort, but I have had those who professed to be faithful friends turn against me.

In prayer and contemplation I have found comfort in the life that Paul lived. He never sought applause or popularity from the people. He only wanted to be faithful to his Lord so that one day he would hear the words that really count:

"WELL DONE, GOOD AND FAITHFUL SERVANT!"

### THAT IS THE WAY I WANT TO LIVE!

# DAY 234 (August 22)

# THE PERIL OF PAIN!

2 Corinthians 12:8-10

Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. But He said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.

I do not know of anyone who will stand in line to receive pain or discomfort. Even so, we can rest assured that it will be delivered to us sooner or later. Pain is just as inevitable as the sun that rises each morning.

The question is not whether we will receive pain or not, but how we will respond to it when it strikes.

I have known many people who live on the threshold of excruciating pain and yet have a glorious smile and glowing testimony.

Others get a splinter and act like they are going to die. Not that splinters do not cause pain, but next to catastrophic injuries or illnesses, there is no comparison.

**The Apostle Paul was no stranger to pain. According to 2 Corinthians 11** — _5 times he received 39 lashes, 3 times he was beaten with rods, and stoned 1 time. He knew hunger, thirst and rejection._

IN THE FACE OF HIS PAIN HE COULD CONFIDENTLY STATE IN PHILIPPIANS 4:13:

" **I CAN DO ALL THINGS THROUGH CHRIST WHO STRENGTHENS ME."**

How do we deal with our own pain?

Do we curl up and feel sorry for ourselves or do we rise above our pain and confidently march out to do battle with the enemy of our souls. I WANT TO JOIN GOD'S ARMY!

# DAY 235 (August 23)

#   THE PERIL OF PRESUMPTION!

Job 1:20-22

At this, Job got up and tore his robe and shaved his head. Then he fell to the ground in worship and said: 'Naked I came from my mother's womb, and naked I will depart. The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away; may the name of the Lord be praised.' In all this, Job did not sin by charging God with wrongdoing.

In this short series, we've been discussing some of the perils we face in life. So far we have considered the peril of popularity and the peril of pain, and today we'll look at the peril of presumption. This is, by no means, an exhaustive list of perils, but it is certain that each of us will be confronted with a peril of one sort or another—and more than one!

I once owned and operated a Christian Counseling Center. From time to time pastors would refer their members to me to help resolve their problems from a biblical perspective. One time a local pastor referred a couple to me and informed me that their problem was finances—THEY DID NOT KNOW HOW TO MANAGE THEM!

When I met with this couple, I almost fell into the trap of presuming that I knew what their problem was. At the prompting of the Holy Spirit, however, I asked them to tell me why they were having problems. Surprisingly, it was something entirely different than finances, and when we dealt with that issue, the financial problem resolved itself.

In the spiritual realm, we often presume to know what God's plans are for us. That is His business, and we must learn to watch and wait. It is a hard thing to do, but it is necessary. _It means that we rest in His direction for our life and trust Him completely._

NO PRESUMING ALLOWED ON THE PREMISES!

# DAY 236 (August 24)

# FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS!

John 14:6-7

Jesus answered, 'I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me. If you really know Me, you will know My Father as well. From now on, you do know Him and have seen Him.

When I was in high school, I worked part-time for a local dairy. My dad and brother also worked there, so it was a family affair. Since I only worked when they needed extra help, I never knew where they would assign me.

That was back in the days when milk was delivered to the door, which was long before Global Positioning Systems (GPS).

We had a route book that listed each household where we were to deliver milk and cream and in what quantities, but I wondered how I would be able to find my way through the various neighborhoods.

The driver who was training me had me read the strange numbers and letters before each address: X2-TR-X3-TL 2ND ON LEFT. Then the address was noted. The X marks indicated the number of streets to cross; TR meant to turn right; and TL meant turn left. Those silly symbols insured that you would be able to find your way to the desired destination.

**JESUS IS OUR ROAD MAP TO OUR ETERNAL HOME.** _If we get our eyes focused on the wrong things such as the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, or the pride of life, we will find ourselves on a dead end street._ **HE IS THE WAY, THE TRUTH, AND THE LIFE!**

# DAY 237 (August 25)

# KEEP YOUR EYES OPEN!

Psalm 123:1-2

I lift up my eyes to You, to You who sit enthroned in heaven. As the eyes of slaves look to the hand of their master, as the eyes of a female slave look to the hand of her mistress, so our eyes look to the Lord our God, till He shows us His mercy.

Have you ever noticed individuals employed to perform a certain job, but who failed to see the undone tasks around them?

I recall a man who was the custodian for a large organization. His job was to insure that everything was kept neat and tidy. He failed miserably!

It was not uncommon for this custodian to walk past wads of paper that someone had carelessly tossed on the floor. He was too busy trying to listen in on some conversation that he had no authorization to be involved with.

On the other extreme, I have seen people who went out of their way to be sensitive to the needs of those they served. In fact, they saw to the needs of others who were not their superiors. They became a servant of the Lord Jesus Christ and responded to needs around them, regardless of who should have been doing the work.

A true servant of the Lord should always be keeping an eye open to see those who might have needs that the Master wants us to respond to.

IF WE PURPOSE TO LOOK, WE WILL SEE THINGS WE HAVE NEVER SEEN BEFORE AND WILL BE DOING THE MASTER'S WILL. WHAT ARE YOU SEEING?

#  DAY 238 (August 26)

#   THE POWER OF THE TONGUE!

Proverbs 15:1-2

A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. The tongue of the wise uses knowledge rightly, but the mouth of fools pours forth foolishness.

You may have heard the old adage the pen is mightier than the sword. The sentence (if not the idea, which had been expressed in various earlier forms) was coined by English author Edward Bulwer-Lytton in 1839 for his play Richelieu; Or the Conspiracy.

I might have the audacity to go one step further and suggest **THAT THE TONGUE IS MIGHTIER THAN THE PEN.** Here is one reason I would say that. In John 11 we read about the death of Lazarus. His two sisters came one at a time to meet the Lord. Each said the same words: _"Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died."_ MARTHA RECEIVED A MILD REBUKE WHILE MARY RECEIVED COMMENDATION. THE DIFFERENCE MUST HAVE BEEN IN THE TONE OF VOICE.

It is critical that we control our tongue and the inferences that we use when we speak. I once counseled a man who was reciting to me the words he used toward his wife. They sounded fairly mild. But he returned to my office a few hours later and told me that he was wrong. He had indeed spoken the words he had related to me, but his tone of voice made them cut and hurt **. AHH! WHAT A DIFFERENCE.**

Read the words of our Scripture for today. Are you using your tongue to bring blessing to others, or is it MIGHTIER THAN A SWORD OR A PEN?

#  DAY 239 (August 27)

# THE ULTIMATE PRIORITY!

Matthew 6:33-34

But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.

My wife Joyce once worked as a legislative assistant. One of the Legislators she was assigned to had very little experience in how to conduct business and almost drove Joyce up the wall with her misplaced priorities.

Each project assignment was marked "HIGHEST PRIORITY!" _Before long, Joyce's desk was piled high with "Highest Priority" projects that begged the question...which one to deal with first?_

I often think of our Christian walk as being somewhat like that. We have many things that demand our attention—many of them are very important and, in fact, we probably label them priority items.

But just like Joyce's dilemma, the inevitable question arises as to which task outranks the others in importance. Sad to say, it can often lead to spiritual depression.

Jesus knows each and every heart. We might say that He is supreme in our life, but where do we place our priorities?

Do we devote ourselves to the pursuit of things that will fade and pass away, or to the things of everlasting value?

IN TODAY'S SCRIPTURE WE ARE CLEARLY DIRECTED TO:

" _SEEK FIRST HIS KINGDOM AND HIS RIGHTEOUSNESS." That's right—we are to make seeking His kingdom and His righteousness the ultimate priority in our life. What is your ultimate priority?_

#  DAY 240 (August 28)

# TIME MARCHES ON!

Ecclesiastes 12:1

Remember your Creator in the days of your youth, before the days of trouble come and the years approach when you will say, 'I find no pleasure in them.

Newspaper columnist Erma Bombeck, who died in 1996, once wrote that she realized things had changed between her and her mother in the car. One day she was driving with her mother beside her in the passenger seat and had to slow rather quickly.

Without thinking about it, she reached over to support her mother much like she had done for her children. Erma's mother had now become the child, and Erma the mother. Life had suddenly come full circle.

Shortly afterwards, Erma happened to be in the passenger seat with her daughter driving when she had to brake suddenly. You got it! The daughter reached over to support Erma. Oh, how things change!

Our granddaughter was with us over Christmas and was commenting on her age: "BEING 25 IS UNREAL," SHE SAID. When her brother was 20, our granddaughter thought it would be forever before she would reach that age, and now she is five years past that!

Her comments reminded me of just how quickly life passes.

THERE IS NO TIME FOR PROCRASTINATION.

The things that God calls us to do must be done when He tells us to do it, not when we get around to it.

Only one life and it soon will pass. Only what is done for Christ will last!

# DAY 241 (August 29)

# COURAGE!

Philippians 1:20-21

I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death. For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.

There are times in our lives that, when facing danger of one sort or another, we experience the tangible grip of FEAR. We may not be paralyzed in the situation, but our reaction seems to move in slow motion.

Twice I have encountered deranged men with loaded weapons that could have easily taken my life. Time stood still in both occurrences, and only later could I normalize.

Fear is not restricted to physical danger. One of the areas that the enemy of our souls uses to impart fear into our spirits is in the sharing of our faith. We may have a sincere desire to share, but the fear of being rejected and scorned causes us to freeze up.

In today's Scripture, Paul is well aware that he is facing a very uncertain future. He has already encountered persecution and pain, and he knows that more of the same awaits him.

Still, Paul's main concern is that his life will exalt Jesus. His greatest desire, be it torture or death, is to remain faithful:

" _For To Me, To Live Is Christ And To Die Is Gain."_

The question I continually ask myself is: What am I willing to endure in order to be a faithful servant of the Lord Jesus Christ?

AM I WILLING TO ENDURE SNICKERS, SCORN, OR EVEN WORSE? I PRAY THAT I MAY ALWAYS BE A WORTHY SERVANT!

#  DAY 242 (August 30)

# MAKE THE CALL!

Isaiah 55:6: Seek the Lord while He may be found; call on Him while He is near.

Over my many years of ministry I have urged individuals, couples, and congregations to call on the name of the Lord at the earliest sign of difficulty.

In fact I have gone so far as to beg them to keep in such close contact with the Lord that they talk with Him all through the day.

I wish I could report that my recommended counsel has been followed. That is just not the case. Many times I have had people come and weep bitter tears because they had met with chaos in their life and things were falling apart.

What do you do when your life has come unraveled and hopes have been crushed? The answer is always the same. CALL ON THE NAME OF THE LORD.

There is no way I have the power to restore and put the broken pieces of their life back together, but I know that when a life is totally surrendered to God, He gives hope for the hopeless.

You may be at a critical juncture of your life at this very moment...your marriage, or your job, or your health, or your children, or your______.

DO I NEED TO GO ON? YOU GET THE IDEA. REGARDLESS OF WHAT YOU FACE RIGHT NOW, I URGE YOU TO MEMORIZE ISAIAH 55:6 AND THEN DO WHAT IT SAYS!

#  DAY 243 (August 31)

# MY BAD!

James 5:16

Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.

Do you ever wonder where certain expressions get started? Not too long ago, "my bad" began to be used when someone desired to acknowledge responsibility for a mistake.

I guess "my bad" has replaced the old standby, "Ooops!"It does not matter which of these expressions is used, the understanding is clear that we have made a mistake. Not only that, we expect others to laugh it off and excuse it as one of the many frailties of human nature.

The story does not end there, however. What is our reaction when others do something unplanned or unexpected that adversely affects us?

All too often we "hit the ceiling" so to speak, and make a spectacle out of an accidental incident. I am sure that we have all heard of the "Golden Rule." In Luke 6:31 we read: "Do to others as you would have them do to you."

Think how different our life (and the lives of others) would be if we made this a vital part of our behavior pattern. I want to commit myself to have such a servant spirit **. LORD, HELP ME TO LAUGH MORE AND BE ABLE TO LOOK PAST THE "MY BADS" OF THOSE AROUND ME.**

#  **DAY 244 (September 1)**

# VICTORY!

Psalm 20:6

Now this I know: The Lord gives victory to His anointed. He answers him from His heavenly sanctuary with the victorious power of His right hand.

There was a time when sporting events were just that. But now that time seems to be a distant memory.

The world of sports has become such big business that even university sports coaches are often paid more than the presidents of those same universities. Getting that bone out of my teeth, let me proceed.

Raucous cheering erupts from spectators when a score is made, and especially when a game is won. Even without sound, it's easy to tell which team is victorious by the reaction of players and fans.

THE WINNING SIDE IS HAPPY AND JUBILANT, WHILE THE LOSERS ARE SAD AND DEJECTED. I HAVE NEVER SEEN JUBILATION FROM A TEAM THAT HAS LOST.

In this season of playoffs and championship games, you can see supporters wearing jerseys of their favorite team and even painting themselves with their team's colors. They shout, "We can do it!" even though they themselves are weak and incompetent. They just identify with their team and want to feel like a part of the team.

GOD HAS ALLOWED US THE BLESSING OF BEING A PART OF HIS WINNING TEAM.

No matter how strong the opponents may be, with God in control we are assured of victory. The trials of this life may seem to be crashing down around us, but we need to go back to the Word of God and see who wins.

VICTORY IS OURS! JESUS WINS!

# **DAY 245 (September 2)**

# **READY OR NOT!**

I Peter 3:15-16

"But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear; having a good conscience, that when they defame you as evildoers, those who revile your good conduct in Christ may be ashamed."

**Do you remember playing Hide 'n Seek when you were a kid?** The person who was "IT" hid his face and counted to a predetermined number, usually 100. When "IT" finished counting he would call out, "READY OR NOT, HERE I COME!" Then he had to find where the other players were hiding and try to tag them before they reached the safety of "BASE".

We never know when God calls us. Several years ago I was conducting a funeral service in a neighboring town. The church was packed and some people even had to stand in the foyer. Before the service I had asked everyone to silence their cell phones.

All was going as expected during the service. The songs had been sung and the message delivered. I WAS MAKING A CHALLENGE TO THE CONGREGATION TO STRESS THE POINT THAT WE NEVER KNOW WHEN THE LORD MIGHT CALL. _It was just at that moment that the cell phone of the son-in-law of the deceased rang...full volume._ As people tried to control their laughter I commented, **"THAT MIGHT BE THE LORD CALLING NOW."**

Are you ready for the Lord to call? If the heart in your chest stopped beating in the next few minutes, would you be prepared to meet the Lord Jesus who gave His life that we might have life?

WE NEED TO LIVE WITH THIS IDEA IN OUR MIND: READY OR NOT, GOD IS COMING!

# **DAY 246 (September 3)**

# GOD IS IN CONTROL!

Matthew 11:28-30

Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.

It seems that we at times have the idea that we control our own destiny. In some sense this may be true, but it usually leads to catastrophe. Regardless of what the positive thinkers may teach, we will always fall short if we rely only on our own resources.

It is easier to say that we allow God to control our life than to actually do it. We have the best intentions of letting the Lord open our closed doors and move our impossible mountains. Then one day our eyes are opened to the fact that we have taken over the operation and have not consulted Him.

The way God communicates with us is primarily through His Word. Those who try to rely on visions or signs are easy prey to the enemy. They are also apt to lead the immature believers to follow them instead of seeking answers from the Lord Himself.

One passage has become a constant guide in my personal walk with the Lord. It is found in: **PROVERBS 3:5-6:** _"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight."_

#  **DAY 247 (September 4)**

# THE CANCER OF SIN!

Hebrews 3:12-13

See to it, brothers and sisters, that none of you has a sinful, unbelieving heart that turns away from the living God. But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called 'Today,' so that none of you may be hardened by sin's deceitfulness.

One of the most feared words in the English language is the word "CANCER". MANY OF US HAVE LOST LOVED ONES TO THAT DREAD DISEASE, AND EVEN THOUGH TREMENDOUS IMPROVEMENTS HAVE BEEN MADE IN TREATMENT, IT STILL IS OUR ENEMY. One of the members of our church family is a team captain for the Relay for Life. Here is her report:

" **We have only had 10 members for the past two years, and in our first year we raised $4,670; and our second year we raised $7,387! That makes a total of $12,057 we have raised to help destroy the MONSTER I CALL CANCER."**

The loss of her sister-in-law to cancer a year ago motivates Cheri to continue the fight. Many of us know friends or family members who have been impacted with this foul malady. But there is an even greater disease that affects the entire human race—SIN! We were all born with it, and without treatment, it is always fatal!

The only treatment for sin is salvation, which is not received by being good, attending church services, or giving money in the offering. While those may be good things, they do not treat sin.

SALVATION IS FOUND ONLY BY THE BLOOD OF JESUS CHRIST.

He paid the price for our redemption on the cross. If you have never done so before, please confess you are a sinner, and accept Him as your personal Savior.

THE TREATMENT IS 100% SUCCESSFUL!

#  **DAY 248 (September 5)**

# THE BEACON!

Isaiah 41:10

Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of My righteousness.

Recently I was reading the book **"Encouragement For Life" by Chuck Swindoll.** I was impressed by one paragraph that I would like to share with you. There are times in life when you are brought face to face with spiritual reality, and that is what I felt when I read this statement: **"When you think biblically you focus first on God. Regardless of what you want, regardless of the circumstances you are under, regardless of what others say or think, regardless of how you feel. God and God alone is working out His great plan and in the final tally it will be fabulous."**

As a young boy, one of the first verses of scripture that I memorized was Isaiah 41:10.

I am not sure which Sunday school teacher gave that as an assignment, but I praise her for doing so. It has been a beacon in my life in the darkest days I have had to face. I know it will continue to be so the rest of my days as well.

What is the beacon in your life? Are you interested in only what will please you? Are you waiting for the right circumstances? Are you influenced by the opinions of others?

I URGE YOU TO MAKE ISAIAH 41:10 THE BEACON IN YOUR LIFE!

#  **LABOR DAY IN UNITED STATES**

Labor Day is annually held on the first Monday of September. It was originally organized to celebrate various labor associations' strengths of and contributions to the United States economy. It is largely a day of rest in modern times. Many people mark Labor Day as the end of the summer season and a last chance to make trips or hold outdoor events.

CELEBRATE LABOR DAY

Labor Day is a day of rest or the last chance for many people to go on trips before the summer ends. For students, it is the last chance to organize parties before school starts again. In some neighborhoods, people organize fireworks displays, barbecues and public arts or sports events. The football season starts on or around Labor Day and many teams play their first game of the year during Labor Day weekend.

May 1 is Lei Day in Hawaii, where celebrations include lei-making competitions, concerts, as well as giving and receiving leis to friends and family.

PUBLIC LIFE

Labor Day is a federal holiday. All Government offices, schools and organizations and many businesses are closed. Some public celebrations, such as fireworks displays, picnics and barbecues, are organized, but they are usually low key events. For many teams, it is the start of the football season. As it is the last chance for many people to take summer trips, there may be some congestion on highways and at airports. Public transit systems do not usually operate on their regular timetables.

ABOUT LABOR DAY

The first Labor Day was held in 1882. Its origins stem from the desire of the Central Labor Union to create a holiday for workers. It became a federal holiday in 1894. It was originally intended that the day would be filled with a street parade to allow the public to appreciate the work of the trade and labor organizations. After the parade, a festival was to be held to amuse local workers and their families. In later years, prominent men and women held speeches. This is less common now, but is sometimes seen in election years. One of the reasons for choosing to celebrate this on the first Monday in September was to add a holiday in the long gap between Independence Day and Thanksgiving.

# **DAY 249 (September 6)**

# TRUST AND OBEY!

Acts 9:17-18: Then Ananias went to the house and entered it. Placing his hands on Saul, he said, 'Brother Saul, the Lord—Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you were coming here—has sent me so that you may see again and be filled with the Holy Spirit.' Immediately, something like scales fell from Saul's eyes, and he could see again. He got up and was baptized.

We never know when or how the Lord will choose to use us. We can be going about our regular business when out of the blue a situation will arise that places us in a position to be used by the Lord. It may be an action or a word, but somehow we will know it was a divine encounter.

I remember such a situation many years ago. I was shopping in a warehouse store and observed a woman with a son and daughter. I WAS GRIEVED AT THE WAY THE MOTHER SPOKE HARSHLY TO HER DAUGHTER. THE GIRL WAS TRYING HER BEST TO HELP AND ALL SHE RECEIVED WERE BELITTLING COMMENTS FROM HER MOTHER.

I felt the best thing I could do was smile at the little girl. Aisle after aisle we would pass one another and each time I would smile at her. At the checkout stand each customer had to bag their own groceries. The little girl was bagging for her family while her older brother just lounged around. **SUDDENLY THE GIRL CAME OVER TO MY AREA AND BEGAN TO BAG MY GROCERIES. I began to brag on her and told her I could just imagine how proud her mother must be to have such a helpful daughter. I CAN STILL RECALL HER WAVING TO ME AS THEY LEFT THE STORE.**

How will God use you today? As far as we know, Ananias was used only one time in his life. That one time was significant. Be alert and ready to touch a life today! As **Dr. D. James Kennedy** once observed, _"THE ONLY ABILITY A CHRISTIAN NEEDS IS AVAILABILITY."_

# **DAY 250 (September 7)**

# NET WORTH!

Matthew 16:25-26

For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it. What good will it be for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul? Or what can anyone give in exchange for their soul?

Joyce and I were once watching the Antiques Roadshow where a woman brought in an item that to my untrained eye appeared to be a piece of trash. (I guess I never did have good taste). She had purchased this item for a few dollars at a yard sale.

The appraised value was something like $30,000. WOW!

I have tried to imagine what a different ride it was going home than coming to the Roadshow. I am sure that the appraised item was treated with little concern going there, but would receive special care on the way home.

The things of this world have a strange way of being valued. WE HAVE HEARD THAT ONE MAN'S TRASH IS ANOTHER MAN'S TREASURE. Look around your own dwelling and see what you consider the most precious items. In our home it is our family! The things of this world are very fleeting. **OBJECTS AND EVEN LOVED ONES CAN DISAPPEAR IN A MOMENT OF TIME.**

There is one eternal treasure that can never be taken away. That is our salvation. In Christ we have the assurance of a mansion that is prepared just for us. Our net worth here may be small, but in eternity it will be priceless  Matthew 16:25-26

# **DAY 251 (September 8)**

# WHERE DID IT GO?

Psalm 39:4

Show me, Lord, my life's end and the number of my days; let me know how fleeting my life is.

**IN A FEW WEEKS I WILL BE CELEBRATING MY 80TH BIRTHDAY.** _There is a saying that at this age you do not celebrate your birthdays, you just endure them._ THAT SOUNDS MORE THAN A LITTLE PESSIMISTIC, BUT I CANNOT DISAGREE TOO MUCH.

It seems such a very short time ago when Joyce and I were considered part of the youth group. There was no defined time when we stopped being "young people" and advanced to the next age bracket—whatever that is.

SO AS TIME FLIES BY, DOES AGE REALLY COUNT?

MANY OF THE MOST-PRODUCTIVE MINDS HAD THEIR FINEST YEARS IN THEIR 80'S AND 90'S. YEAH! THERE IS HOPE FOR US YET!

Rather than sitting around and bemoaning the fact that we are getting older, we need to tighten our belts and ask the Lord what our next assignment is.

**Look for new opportunities to reach out and impact our world for Jesus Christ.** _We need to forget where our youth went and get busy spending our golden years!_

#  **DAY 252 (September 9)**

# GROW IN THE LORD!

2 Peter 3:17-18

Therefore, dear friends, since you have been forewarned, be on your guard so that you may not be carried away by the error of the lawless and fall from your secure position. But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be glory both now and forever! Amen.

Most of us can relate to the apostle Peter—a man that was totally dedicated on the Lord, yet he slipped. This was a man of courage. But, too often, we focus on the three times Peter denied knowing the Lord in the courtyard where Jesus was shamefully and unjustly tried.

The courage of Peter was seen hours before the kangaroo trial. He was the one who wielded a sword against the servant of the high priest. Such action could be considered suicide. But Peter was willing to die for his Master.

A few short hours after demonstrating this act of courage, Peter failed his Lord three times just as Jesus had prophesied. When he denied Jesus the third time and the cock crowed, Jesus turned and looked at Peter. I am sure that it was a look of love and forgiveness. Peter went away and wept bitter tears.

I have tried to get my mind around the courage of Peter on the one hand and the failure on the other.

The only difference I can see is that he was separated from his Lord.

THE WAY TO HAVE VICTORY IS TO GROW IN THE LORD.

#  **DAY 253 (September 10)**

# ITCHING EARS!

2 Timothy 4:3-4

For the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths.

THE TIME HAS COME!

What Paul warned Timothy to be aware of is here—that a time would come when people would refuse to hear the Word of God. We are certainly living in a day and age when people want to be entertained rather than taught. The word doctrine in the Greek is didaskalia. It means to instruct or teach.

HAVE YOU NOTICED THAT IN THE PAST SEVERAL YEARS THERE HAS BEEN A DRAMATIC INCREASE IN BOOKS AND MOVIES THAT DEAL WITH MYTHICAL CREATURES AND EVEN PRESENT THEM AS BEING REAL?

Do you find it strange that the very people who deny the Bible as being the Word of God are the very ones who support the myths as being true? These people often accuse Christians of being out of step with reality and reject our teachings.

WHAT DO WE DO IN A SITUATION LIKE THIS?

I think Paul makes it very clear that our task as believers is to be faithful in proclaiming the truth.

YES, THERE ARE MANY WHO WILL REJECT IT AND REJECT US AS WELL, BUT WE ARE TO STAY AT THE TASK UNTIL JESUS COMES!

#  DAY 254 (September 11) 9/11 Day

# CONFIDENCE!

Deuteronomy 7:18-19

"But do not be afraid of them; remember well what the LORD your God did to Pharaoh and to all Egypt. You saw with your own eyes the great trials, the miraculous signs and wonders, the mighty hand and the outstretched arm, with which the LORD your God brought you out. The LORD your God will do the same to all the peoples you now fear."

JUST MENTION 9/11 AND PEOPLE WILL IMMEDIATELY ASSOCIATE IT WITH THE WICKED TERRORIST ATTACKS IN SEPTEMBER 2001.

The deaths at the World Trade Center, Pentagon and in an open field in Pennsylvania shocked the entire world. The responses to the terrorist attacks have run the gamut of human emotions. _Some have grieved, some became fearful, others angry, and others have turned to the Lord. One thing is certain — there has been a response!_

In the days before the 9/11 attack, people had increasingly left God out of their life. The courts attempted to erase God from our public awareness. The schools, which allow many types of perversion and twisted thinking, expelled God from the classrooms.

Amazingly, the very people who denied God's existence or who had turned their backs on God, suddenly blamed Him for not preventing the attacks?! That was not only true for the 9/11 attacks, but also for many other tragedies. How foolish unbelieving mortals can be!

God has repeatedly promised that if we give ourselves to Him, He will fight our battles for us. Consider Proverbs 3:5-6 "Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge God and He will make your paths straight." THE CONDITION FOR HIS LEADERSHIP AND PROTECTION IS IN OUR ACKNOWLEDGING GOD IN ALL OF OUR WAYS.

Since 9/11/01, the world has been exposed to many threats or even actual attacks. One or two individuals are able to cause catastrophic consequences. Should we tremble in fear? No! Listen to what God says in **Isaiah 41:10:** _"So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with My righteous right hand."_

Wow! That should produce confidence. But the confidence can only be experienced as we surrender to God. We will never find confidence by rejecting God, or by rebelling against God, or ignoring God– it will only be found as we cry out to God for His mercy and forgiveness.

My heart cries out for a deep spiritual renewal. The only way for spiritual renewal to begin is to begin with ourselves. It is confessing our individual sins as well as the sins of our people. It is asking the Lord to come into our life in a new and fresh power for service and ministry.

As we do this, we can look with confidence about what lies ahead. Here is an old chorus we used to sing with possibly a few changes:

" **Are we down hearted? No! No! No! Are we down hearted?**

No! No! No!

Troubles may come and troubles may go, we'll trust in Jesus no matter the foe! Are we down hearted?

No! No! No!"

#  **A BREIF HISTORY OF 9/11/2001**

On September 11, 2001, 19 militants associated with the Islamic extremist group al-Qaeda hijacked four airliners and carried out suicide attacks against targets in the United States. Two of the planes were flown into the towers of the World Trade Center in New York City, a third plane hit the Pentagon just outside Washington, D.C., and the fourth plane crashed in a field in Pennsylvania.

Often referred to as 9/11, the attacks resulted in extensive death and destruction, triggering major U.S. initiatives to combat terrorism and defining the presidency of George W. Bush. Over 3,000 people were killed during the attacks in New York City and Washington, D.C., including more than 400 police officers and firefighters.  
On September 11, 2001, at 8:45 a.m. on a clear Tuesday morning, an American Airlines Boeing 767 loaded with 20,000 gallons of jet fuel crashed into the north tower of the World Trade Center in New York City. The impact left a gaping, burning hole near the 80th floor of the 110-story skyscraper, instantly killing hundreds of people and trapping hundreds more in higher floors.

As the evacuation of the tower and its twin got underway, television cameras broadcasted live images of what initially appeared to be a freak accident.

Then, 18 minutes after the first plane hit, a second Boeing 767–United Airlines Flight 175–appeared out of the sky, turned sharply toward the World Trade Center and sliced into the south tower near the 60th floor.

The collision caused a massive explosion that showered burning debris over surrounding buildings and the streets below. America was under attack.

DID YOU KNOW?

September 11, 2001, was the deadliest day in history for New York City firefighters: 343 were killed.

The attackers were Islamic terrorists from Saudi Arabia and several other Arab nations. Reportedly financed by Saudi fugitive Osama bin Laden's al-Qaeda terrorist organization, they were allegedly acting in retaliation for America's support of Israel, its involvement in the Persian Gulf War and its continued military presence in the Middle East.

Some of the terrorists had lived in the United States for more than a year and had taken flying lessons at American commercial flight schools. Others had slipped into the country in the months before September 11 and acted as the "muscle" in the operation.

The 19 terrorists easily smuggled box-cutters and knives through security at three East Coast airports and boarded four flights bound for California, chosen because the planes were loaded with fuel for the long transcontinental journey.

Soon after takeoff, the terrorists commandeered the four planes and took the controls, transforming ordinary commuter jets into guided missiles.

As millions watched the events unfolding in New York, American Airlines Flight 77 circled over downtown Washington, D.C., and slammed into the west side of the Pentagon military headquarters at 9:45 a.m.

Jet fuel from the Boeing 757 caused a devastating inferno that led to the structural collapse of a portion of the giant concrete building. All told, 125 military personnel and civilians were killed in the Pentagon, along with all 64 people aboard the airliner.

Less than 15 minutes after the terrorists struck the nerve center of the U.S. military, the horror in New York took a catastrophic turn for the worse when the south tower of the World Trade Center collapsed in a massive cloud of dust and smoke. The structural steel of the skyscraper, built to withstand winds in excess of 200 miles per hour and a large conventional fire, could not withstand the tremendous heat generated by the burning jet fuel.

At 10:30 a.m., the other Trade Center tower collapsed. Close to 3,000 people died in the World Trade Center and its vicinity, including a staggering 343 firefighters and paramedics, 23 New York City police officers and 37 Port Authority police officers who were struggling to complete an evacuation of the buildings and save the office workers trapped on higher floors. Only six people in the World Trade Center towers at the time of their collapse survived. Almost 10,000 others were treated for injuries, many severe.

Meanwhile, a fourth California-bound plane–United Flight 93–was hijacked about 40 minutes after leaving Newark International Airport in New Jersey.

Because the plane had been delayed in taking off, passengers on board learned of events in New York and Washington via cell phone and Airfone calls to the ground. Knowing that the aircraft was not returning to an airport as the hijackers claimed, a group of passengers and flight attendants planned an insurrection.

One of the passengers, Thomas Burnett Jr., told his wife over the phone that "I know we're all going to die. There's three of us who are going to do something about it. I love you, honey." Another passenger–Todd Beamer–was heard saying "Are you guys ready? Let's roll" over an open line.

Sandy Bradshaw, a flight attendant, called her husband and explained that she had slipped into a galley and was filling pitchers with boiling water. Her last words to him were "Everyone's running to first class. I've got to go. Bye."

The passengers fought the four hijackers and are suspected to have attacked the cockpit with a fire extinguisher. The plane then flipped over and sped toward the ground at upwards of 500 miles per hour, crashing in a rural field in western Pennsylvania at 10:10 a.m.

All 45 people aboard were killed. Its intended target is not known, but theories include the White House, the U.S. Capitol, Camp David presidential retreat in Maryland or one of several nuclear power plants along the eastern seaboard.

At 7 p.m., President George W. Bush, who had spent the day being shuttled around the country because of security concerns, returned to the White House. At 9 p.m., he delivered a televised address from the Oval Office, declaring, "Terrorist attacks can shake the foundations of our biggest buildings, but they cannot touch the foundation of America.

THESE ACTS SHATTER STEEL, BUT THEY CANNOT DENT THE STEEL OF AMERICAN RESOLVE." IN A REFERENCE TO THE EVENTUAL U.S. MILITARY RESPONSE HE DECLARED, "WE WILL MAKE NO DISTINCTION BETWEEN THE TERRORISTS WHO COMMITTED THESE ACTS AND THOSE WHO HARBOR THEM."

#  **DAY 255 (September 12)**

# REAR VIEW MIRROR!

Revelation 3:3

Remember, therefore, what you have received and heard; hold it fast, and repent. But if you do not wake up, I will come like a thief, and you will not know at what time I will come to you.

I do not think I could drive without a rear view mirror. They give a proper perspective of what is going on around you as you drive. Sometimes there are dangers behind you that you need to consider.

As born-again believers, it is important that we frequently look into our spiritual rear view mirror. It will keep us from being rear-ended by situations that might otherwise overtake us.

It is important for us to remember that our enemy, Satan, prowls around like a roaring lion.

If I am correct, lions hunt in groups called prides. Often the roar of one will cause the prey animal to panic and run into the waiting jaws of other members of the pride.

As we travel through this wonderful life that the Lord has given us, we need to do so with caution.

It is not that we are to be paralyzed by fear, but we need to keep our eyes peeled in all directions.

**The safest route we can take is staying close to our Lord by reading His Word and conversing with Him in prayer all through the day and night.** REAR VIEW MIRROR!

# **DAY 256 (September 13)**

# SHADOWS!

Psalm 23:4: Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.

The thing I have observed about shadows is that they appear larger than the actual object that is producing the shadow. Any time you are out after dark and there is a full moon, the looming shadows you see will scare the daylights out of you.

Having worked as a police officer, I can testify that law enforcement officers are just as prone to fear as anyone else. You may be walking a beat in a dark alley when you see this huge animal ahead. Your mouth becomes dry as cotton as you try to determine which course of action to take. Just then you hear a cat's meow and realize that the huge animal was only the shadow of a small kitten.

Spiritually speaking, we are just as susceptible to the fear of shadows. Instead of trusting in the Lord as we walk through our "valley of the shadow of death," we try to trust in our own strengths. That is always the wrong thing to do. Without the Lord at our side, we become fearful and defeated.

What are the shadows in your life? Are there individuals that cast a huge shadow across your path? Do you have personality shadows that you are trying to deal with in your own strength? Does the shadow of a health problem cripple you?

LET ME LEAVE YOU WITH THE SECRET TO DEFEATING YOUR SHADOWS. **PROVERBS 3:5-6:** _"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight."_

#  **DAY 257 (September 14)**

# PREPARED!

John 6:12-13

Jesus then took the loaves, gave thanks, and distributed to those who were seated as much as they wanted. He did the same with the fish. When they had all had enough to eat, he said to his disciples, 'Gather the pieces that are left over. Let nothing be wasted.' So they gathered them and filled twelve baskets with the pieces of the five barley loaves left over by those who had eaten.

Have you ever thought about the Israelite mother who packed a small lunch for her son before he left to see the miracle worker of Galilee? She had no idea that the five small barley loaves and two small fish would be transformed into a miracle. It was just a lunch from a concerned mother for her son.

One Friday, Joyce was scheduled to have an MRI at 7:10 A.M. I was not allowed to go with her and had to wait in the car. It was fascinating to watch as the many employees at this large medical facility arrived at work. Almost all of them had lunches. Some were in plastic bags directly from stores while others had bags or pails. They were prepared for meal time.

In many other instances we observe individuals preparing for what lies ahead. It may not be for lunch, but it may well be for college, marriage, retirement, or some other life event that seems important to them.

The critical question is...ARE WE PREPARING FOR ETERNITY?

Eternity is a certainty for each and every one of us. Mortality is 100%. Each and every one of us will die unless we experience the rapture of the church. Is your heart right with God?

# **DAY 258 (September 15)**

# ETERNAL VALUE!

Luke 12:6-7: Are not five sparrows sold for two cents? Yet not one of them is forgotten before God. Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Do not fear; you are more valuable than many sparrows.

We too often fail to recognize just how valuable a human life is to God. We can be very nonchalant about what our life and witness could mean to those who have not yet made a decision for Christ.

But we carelessly shrug our shoulders, unconcerned whether they do or they don't—what's the big deal about one more decision?

Stop for a few moments and try to visualize the terrors of hell. If you need a little help, let me share this passage from **LUKE 16:23-24:** _"In Hades, where he was in torment, he looked up and saw Abraham far away, with Lazarus by his side. So he called to him, 'Father Abraham, have pity on me and send Lazarus to dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue, because I am in agony in this fire.'"_

CAN YOU IMAGINE THE TORMENT THAT WAS SO GREAT THAT JUST A TOUCH OF WATER ON HIS PARCHED TONGUE WOULD BRING SOME RELIEF?

Now get your mind around the concept that this torment would last for eternity!

WE ARE NOT JUST PLAYING A GAME HERE. WE ARE DEALING WITH ETERNAL VALUES. _Our actions must match our words so that we will create a desire in the hearts of the lost to make that eternal choice that will mean heaven!_

# **DAY 259 (September 16)**

# THE CRITICAL TEST!

1 John 1:5-7

This is the message we have heard from Him and declare unto you: God is light; in Him there is no darkness at all. If we claim to have fellowship with Him yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live by the truth. But if we walk in the light, as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, His Son, purifies us from all sin.

I am greatly concerned that we have given people the wrong message concerning salvation. We have propounded the idea that you are able to receive Jesus Christ as your personal Savior and go on living a godless lifestyle.

THAT IS TOTALLY WRONG.

I find none of that thinking in Scripture. In fact, it is just the opposite. Today's passage is just one of many that indicate our walk must match our talk.

Jesus consistently told those who had been set free from sin and disease to turn away from it and begin to walk a different walk.

Now if Jesus said that to people in His day, it still applies today. It seems that somewhere along the line we have adopted the notion that we can live like the devil and still be a child of the King. BEEP! WRONG!!

It is inventory time. We need to answer some questions that may well determine our eternal destiny.

THAT MEANS WE CANNOT TAKE THEM LIGHTLY. READY?

  1. Can you recall when you prayed to ask the Lord to forgive your sins and come into your life?

  2. Were you sincere in praying that prayer?

  3. Do you have the assurance that Christ is your Savior and Lord at this very moment?

  4. In what manner has your way of life changed since you received Christ into your life? Have you turned away from the sins of your past?

  5. Are you disciplining yourself daily to read God's Word?

  6. Do you have a meaningful prayer time each day? (Not just before meals or "Now I lay me down to sleep")

  7. Do other people know you are a Christian by your spiritual walk with the Lord?

  8. When you sin, does your conscience convict you and lead you to confess the sin?

  9. If you were to appear before God right now, would He be pleased with the way you are living?

These are just a few questions that will hopefully reveal what your walk is like. They may be a wakeup call to reestablish your relationship with God.

It is so easy to get caught up with the things of the world and ignore the Lord who has promised us eternal life.

We never know when something very sudden and unexpected could end our life on this earth.

The few questions above will be nothing compared to the questions we will get about every deed done in the flesh.

ARE YOU READY?

I URGE YOU TO DO IT NOW WHILE THERE IS STILL TIME.

# **DAY 260 (September 17)**

# ANXIETY!

Philippians 4:4-7

Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

When I think of being nervous my mind goes to the character that Don Knotts played on the old Andy Griffith show. He was the ever nervous and always anxious deputy, Barney Fife. IT WAS HUMOROUS WATCHING AS BARNEY'S ANXIETY OVER INSIGNIFICANT SITUATIONS CAUSED EVEN MORE PROBLEMS.

I always wanted to put a hand on his shoulder and help him calm down and assure him that everything would be okay (But he was just playing a part).

What about our own life? What are the things that cause us to tremble, shake, and lose sleep? Do you think the Lord is pleased with us when we allow our anxious thoughts to control our lives?

There are several thoughts I see in today's Scripture that must be a part of our thinking in order to counteract anxiety:

REJOICE (always), GENTLENESS THAT IS EVIDENT TO ALL, REMEMBER THAT THE LORD IS NEAR, GET RID OF ANXIOUS THOUGHTS, And ALWAYS PRAY WITH THANKSGIVING.

THE LORD IS IN CONTROL—RELAX AND ENJOY HIM!

#  **DAY 261 (September 18)**

# FRAIDY CAT!

Isaiah 41:10

Fear not, for I am with you; Be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.

IT IS A MIRACLE THAT MANY OF THE KIDS IN MY OLD NEIGHBORHOOD SURVIVED TO ADULTHOOD.

The reason was that we attempted many death-defying stunts at the instigation of the other kids who called us a "FRAIDY CAT" if we didn't accept their challenge.

Peer pressure is an extremely strong motivator. Unfortunately, it is most often used in a negative way rather than to encourage spiritual excellence.

Today's Scripture is one of the first verses I ever memorized. It has been with me throughout many ordeals in my life. One thing that this verse has taught me is that I need not fear the things that lay in wait for me.

Many situations that I have faced have been unpleasant and trying, and my first choice would have been to evade them...but there was no way around. I had to endure and persevere. I want to testify to the faithfulness of my precious Lord and His infallible Word.

Someone has written: **"GOD SAID IT—I BELIEVE IT—THAT'S GOOD ENOUGH FOR ME!"** I have found that to be true over and over again. I encourage you to take to heart the promise in this verse. You need not fear since God has promised to be with you and never forsake you.

DO NOT ALLOW YOURSELF TO BECOME DEPRESSED. HE WILL GIVE YOU HIS STRENGTH AND HOLD YOU UP WITH HIS POWERFUL RIGHT HAND. MAN! THAT IS GOOD ENOUGH FOR ME!!!

# **DAY 262 (September 19)**

# WHO TO TRUST!

Deuteronomy 4:39-40

Acknowledge and take to heart this day that the Lord is God in heaven above and on the earth below. There is no other. Keep his decrees and commands, which I am giving you today, so that it may go well with you and your children after you and that you may live long in the land the Lord your God gives you for all time.

With a sad heart I recall the times when people I thought could be trusted just could not be trusted. The results were shattering and I must confess that it took a great deal of prayer and fasting before things returned to normal.

I have come to apprehend that there is a God in heaven and He loves us so much that He sent His own dear Son, Jesus, to suffer and die in order to ransom us from sin. Because of the original sin of Adam and Eve in the Garden, we are a fallen race. Satan lied to our original parents and they fell for his deceitful enticement.

I do not know where you are at this time in your life. It could be that you have faced betrayal and rejection. Those that promised you so much have turned out to be a bitter disappointment.

Where can we turn at times like this? As always, the answer is the Word of God. It is the window into the heart of God and His everlasting faithfulness.

It does not matter how many times people have failed us, we can place our trust in the Lord with the absolute confidence that He will never fail us.

WE CAN TRUST HIM! HE WILL NEVER FAIL US.

# **DAY 263 (September 20)**

# I AM SURE!

1 John 4:13-16

This is how we know that we live in Him and He in us: He has given us of His Spirit. And we have seen and testify that the Father has sent His Son to be the Savior of the world. If anyone acknowledges that Jesus is the Son of God, God lives in them and they in God. And so we know and rely on the love God has for us.

I was calling on a member of a church I once pastored. He was in guarded health and the doctor had told him that he could go at any time. I read a few verses of Scripture with him and tried to encourage him in the Lord.

TO BE HONEST, I AM NOT SURE I WAS EVER ABLE TO ASSURE HIM THAT HE WAS TRULY BORN AGAIN AND READY TO BE WITH THE LORD.

My dear friend Michael Keller has a prison ministry in Florida. One of the first questions he asks the inmates he meets with is: "Do you think you are saved by being good?"

MOST ANSWER "YES!"

THAT IS NOT WHAT THE Bible SAYS.

**Let me share with you once again the words of** **Ephesians 2:8-9:** _"For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast."_ ****

SO IT IS NOT WHAT WE DO FOR GOD, BUT WHAT HE HAS DONE FOR US THAT ASSURES US OF ETERNAL LIFE.

WHEN WE PRAY AN HONEST PRAYER TO THE LORD AND INVITE HIM TO BE THE LORD OF OUR LIFE, WE CAN KNOW BEYOND ALL SHADOW OF DOUBT THAT AT THE MOMENT WE BREATHE OUR LAST BREATH HERE ON THIS PLANET, WE WILL BE WITH THE LORD FOREVER AND FOREVER.

PRAISE GOD!

# **DAY 264 (September 21)**

# HATE THE EVIL!

Romans 12:9-11

Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.

Several years ago I was watching a show on the Animal Channel. The show host was carefully holding a red frog in his cupped hands as he made a great case for the rarity of this small frog.

Explaining that the red frog was close to being placed on the endangered species list, he stated that he always held a frog lightly because they breathe through the skin and can absorb certain chemicals from a human's palms that may cause its death.

The host took great care to explain how this frog defends itself. He explained that if an animal took the frog into its mouth, the frog would inject a gooey, noxious substance into the throat and mouth of the attacker.

This would cause such swelling and pain that the attacker would immediately release the frog.

Suddenly, the frog he was holding about eight inches from his face, made a leap into his mouth.

He quickly spat and caught the frog in his hand.

As he tried to control his emotions, the shaken show host placed the frog down onto the dank forest floor and quickly stammered through the rest of his narrative.

I wonder why these wildlife hosts feel it is necessary to hunt down such weird creatures and then hold them with seeming ecstasy before releasing them again.

Many times they have been poisoned by the creatures, but they still continue this dangerous practice.

THAT IS EXACTLY HOW MANY PEOPLE (EVEN CHRISTIANS) DEAL WITH SINFUL THINGS.

We go after them and hold them in our hands even though we know how dangerous they are. All too often these practices strike and place us in grave danger.

Today's Scripture says that we are to hate what is evil. If we are to walk in the ways of God, we should see the danger of getting too close to the things which are detestable to Him. What God hates we have no business holding close to us. We should run from it.

THE QUESTION WE ALWAYS MUST ASK OURSELVES IS: "IS THERE ANY SINFUL THING IN MY LIFE THAT I AM HOLDING CLOSE ENOUGH THAT IT CAN INJECT ITS POISON INTO ME?"

We need to get rid of those things that pose a spiritual danger to us.

Turn to Christ and ask Him to give us the strength and power to get rid of the "EVIL" in our life.

#  **DAY 265 (September 22)**

# ANOTHER 3:16!

2 Timothy 3:16-17

"All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work."

Fall has fallen with a change in the season. The Fall equinox means that for a few brief days there will be approximately 12 hours of daylight. The days will grow shorter here in the northern hemisphere and longer in the southern hemisphere.

It seems like we have been here before! The older I get the more things seem to repeat themselves. This is the case with particular verses of Scripture. We are all familiar with John 3:16, but it is interesting that many New Testament books have a significant 3:16.

Read today's Scripture and you will see what I am referring to. These two verses are extremely powerful. God's Word is the final authority. It is "GOD BREATHED" AND "INFALLIBLE". Also note that it IS "ALL OF GOD'S WORD" that is spoken of here. From Genesis to Revelation, God presents our pattern for living for Him.

We may not be able to understand everything that we read the first time, or even the hundredth time, but if we remain faithful in our daily reading, more and more of it will become clear.

SO WHAT IS THE USEFULNESS OF GOD'S WORD?

" **It is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work." I WOULD SAY THAT MAKES IT WELL WORTH OUR COMMITMENT TO READ AND STUDY DILIGENTLY.**

#  **WHAT IS THE SEPTEMBER EQUINOX?**

There are two equinoxes every year – in September and March – when the sun shines directly on the equator and the length of day and night is nearly equal.

SPRING IN THE SOUTH

 Seasons are opposite on either side of the equator, so the equinox in September is also known as the Autumnal (fall) equinox in the northern hemisphere. In the southern hemisphere, it's known as the Spring (vernal) equinox.

SUN CROSSES CELESTIAL EQUATOR

The September equinox occurs the moment the Sun crosses the celestial equator – the imaginary line in the sky above the Earth's equator – from north to south. This happens either on September 22, 23, or 24 every year.

THE AXIAL TILT

The Earth's axis is always tilted at an angle of about 23.5° in relation to the ecliptic, the imaginary plane created by the Earth's path around the Sun. On any other day of the year, either the southern hemisphere or the northern hemisphere tilts a litte towards the Sun. But on the two equinoxes, the tilt of the Earth's axis is perpendicular to the Sun's rays, like the illustration shows.

WHY "EQUINOX"?

On the equinox, night and day are nearly exactly the same length – 12 hours – all over the world. This is the reason it's called an "equinox", derived from Latin, meaning "equal night". However, even if this is widely accepted, it isn't entirely true. In reality equinoxes don't have exactly 12 hours of daylight

TRADITIONS AND FOLKLORE

In the northern hemisphere the September equinox marks the start of fall (autumn). Many cultures and religions celebrate or observe holidays and festivals around the September equinox.

# **DAY 266 (September 23)**

# GOOD INTENTIONS!

Romans 7:21-25

So I find this law at work: Although I want to do good, evil is right there with me. For in my inner being I delight in God's law; but I see another law at work in me, waging war against the law of my mind and making me a prisoner of the law of sin at work within me. What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body that is subject to death? Thanks be to God, who delivers me through Jesus Christ our Lord!

I have encountered many people who had set goals for themselves, but just seemed to never get around to doing them.

They have the best intentions of accomplishing the things they promise to do, but put off and put off until they no longer remember what their original goals were.

This could be in the areas of diet, exercise, giving, attending church, cleaning up the house, and any number of such good things. During my years of ministry, hundreds of people have promised me that they were going to be at church—I am still waiting for them to show up!

Then there is the commitment to read the Bible. People have the best intention of making Bible reading a part of their daily routine, but they just never get around to it. Isn't it odd that we always seem to find the time and energy to do the things that are more alluring?

What are the good intentions in your life that you have failed to accomplish?

IN THE MATTER OF BIBLE READING, I CHALLENGE YOU TO MAKE A COVENANT WITH THE LORD TO READ THE BIBLE TEN MINUTES EACH DAY. DO IT AND STICK TO IT. IT WILL CHANGE YOUR LIFE!

# **DAY 267 (September 24)**

# WHAT IF?!

Philippians 3:13-14

Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.

In counseling sessions I have often encouraged couples to get over previous failures. The fact of the matter is that the past is past.

Wow! That is rather profound even for me.

THE PAST IS PAST!

If we really believe that, why do we spend so much of our time wondering about our yesterdays?

Leaving that cheery thought aside, I would like to consider another aspect on the topic of WHAT IF?

Those of us who have received Jesus Christ as our personal Savior know that He lives and that He waits in Heaven for us.

Sadly, there are those who deny God and live an atheistic existence. It breaks our heart when they reject our appeal for them to be saved.

But what if there were no God? Believe me—I have no doubt in my mind, but what if there were no God? If that were the case, I would feel more than satisfied that I have had a contented life and have no regret.

But What if there is a God and a Jesus Christ who died on the cross for us and a Holy Spirit who beckons us?

One split second into eternity that doubter would be faced with an eternity to deal with their stubborn rejection.

Take the time to read Luke 16:19-31. It is the story of the rich man and Lazarus.

THROUGHOUT ETERNITY THAT RICH MAN WILL LIVE WITH THE QUESTION—WHAT IF?!

# **DAY 268 (September 25)**

# DOUBTERS!

Luke 24:9-11

When they came back from the tomb, they told all these things to the Eleven and to all the others. It was Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Mary the mother of James, and the others with them who told this to the apostles. But they did not believe the women, because their words seemed to them like nonsense.

According to modern day dramas or musicals, the disciples were ecstatic over the news the women brought back from the empty tomb. They reported that they had seen angels and one had even seen Jesus Himself.

The reaction to these reports was doubt. How utterly sorrowful that after all Jesus had told them about what He was going to endure and conquer, they still doubted.

Oh yes, Peter and John left to go to the tomb, but the fact that the others failed to go proves their doubt.

The apostle Thomas was not the only one who expressed doubts. There were other doubters in the crowd.

IT REMINDS ME THAT IT IS EASIER TO DOUBT THAN TO REST IN THE ARMS OF FAITH.

Jesus repeatedly appeared to the disciples and as many as 500 at one time following His resurrection.

WHY DID THE DISCIPLES DOUBT?

I think the basic reason was they did not listen to their Lord as He spoke in person.

WHY ARE WE PRONE TO DOUBT TODAY?

I think it is the same reason. We fail to listen to what He says in His Word, the Bible!

# **DAY 269 (September 26)**

# SNATCHED AWAY!

1 Corinthians 15:51-52

Listen, I tell you a mystery: We will not all sleep, but we will all be changed—in a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed.

Recently our granddaughter and her husband were with a tour group in Paris. The guide alerted them to be careful with their possessions as the area they were about to enter was notorious for pickpockets.

OUR GRANDDAUGHTER WAS EXTREMELY CAREFUL TO BE ALERT AND PROTECT HER BELONGINGS.

Suddenly a young woman tried to shove some sort of literature at her. She repeatedly said no, but the woman pressed in her face. While my granddaughter was trying to push the aggressive woman away, she felt her cell phone being taken from her jacket pocket.

THE THIEVES QUICKLY DISAPPEARED INTO THE CROWD.

Things can happen so quickly that we often are not able to defend ourselves.

We experienced a similar loss when we visited Hawaii.

Joyce and I decided to go to the beach and chose to lock her purse in the car trunk for safe keeping. (So we thought!) When we returned to our hotel and opened the trunk, the purse was gone.

THIEVES HAD PRIED OPEN THE DOOR, RIPPED OPEN THE BACK SEAT AND, IN PROBABLY JUST A FEW SECONDS, THE PURSE WAS IN THEIR POSSESSION.

As we read today's Scripture, we are forewarned that the coming of the Lord will happen in a fraction of a second.

The rapture of the church is drawing near and we cannot delay in preparing for eternity.

WILL YOU BE A PART OF GOD'S PEOPLE WHO WILL BE SNATCHED AWAY TO MEET THE LORD IN THE AIR?

# **DAY 270 (September 27)**

# TRUE LOVE!

Mark 12:30-31

Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. The second is this: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' There is no commandment greater than these.

Recently our daughter told us she had seen a report of a couple who had been married 72 years. They were still so much in love that they held hands like a couple of newlyweds.

THEY COULD NOT BEAR THE THOUGHT OF BEING APART FOR EVEN SHORT PERIODS OF TIME.

The wife became ill and when she died, her sweetheart husband told the children that he would be joining her very shortly. He died about fifteen hours later.

The great artist Vincent Van Gogh once made this comment:

" _There is nothing more artistic than to love people."_

If we were to paint an image of love it would be something going outward to others, rather than inward. It grieves me that we live in a time when love is measured by what satisfies us rather than how we give of ourselves to others.

On a very personal note, for the past several years I had the blessing of serving my wife as she increasingly lost the strength to do things for herself. Perhaps some would have thrown up their hands and refused to do the menial tasks, but I gained so much from this expression of love.

I find new meaning when I read in Ephesians 5 that the husband is to love the wife in the same way that Christ loved the church. Christ demonstrated love for us by dying for us. I want to die to myself for my wife as well as others I serve.

# **DAY 271 (September 28)**

# CHANGE YOUR WAYS!

Ephesians 2:8-10

For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.

We are fortunate to have a radio station in our area that plays old time music. It is hard for me to say "old time" since so many of these songs are fresh in my mind even though they are from the "dark ages."

The other day I heard a song that I had not thought about for years—a song that many recording artists had sung back in the day— **"Ghost Riders in the Sky."** As I listened, I was struck by one line that had never impacted me before.

**HERE IS THE LINE:** _"As the riders loped on by him, he heard one call his name, 'If you wanna save your soul from hell a-ridin on our range, then, Cowboy, change your ways today or with us you will ride, tryin to catch the devil's herd across these endless skies.'"_

We have been deceived into believing that we merit entrance into God's heaven by the good life we live here on earth. There is absolutely no way this cowboy or any other can change his ways and get into heaven.

TODAY'S SCRIPTURE GIVES US THE ONE AND ONLY WAY.

BE SURE TO LET OTHERS KNOW THE SECRET TO SALVATION!

#  **DAY 272 (September 29)**

# JESUS PRAYS FOR US!

John 17:15-19

My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one. They are not of the world, even as i am not of it. Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth. As you sent me into the world, i have sent them into the world. For them i sanctify myself, that they too may be truly sanctified.

It literally sends chills up and down my spine to realize that Jesus actually prayed for each and every believer! As we read the words of this beautiful prayer of our Lord, it is awesome to remember that He has each of us written in the palm of His hand. Accept this mighty prayer in your behalf.

Jesus could have easily taken all of His disciples with Him when He ascended into heaven. HE DIDN'T! Jesus had a plan and purpose for the disciples of His day as well as the believers of all ages.

Read today's Scripture once more and where I have underlined the words they or them, place your name instead. You see, Jesus had a plan and purpose for each believer. Some have been called to endure suffering and sacrifice, and others to a life of plenty in which to give to the work of ministry.

Things change rapidly, and we never know from moment to moment whether we will live or die for the Lord. But there is one thing we can know for certain—

He prayed this prayer for you knowing every moment of your life. What are you doing for Him?

JESUS PRAYS FOR US! John 17:15-19

# **DAY 273 (September 30)**

# THE EAGLE!

Deuteronomy 32:11-12: As an eagle stirs up its nest, hovers over its young, spreading out its wings, taking them up, carrying them on its wings, so the LORD alone led him, and there was no foreign god with him.

A few years ago I was watching a web camera focused on an eagle's nest in Sydney, B.C., Canada. There were three eaglets in the nest. I WAS ENTHRALLED AS I SAT AT MY COMPUTER AND OBSERVED THE DRAMA IN THE NEST.

Once as I watched, a marauder (another eagle), swept down on the nest. In the blink of an eye he made off with the remains of a seagull that the mother eagle had been shredding and feeding to her hungry brood.

A video replay of the attack demonstrated how quickly it happened. The mother seemed to be aware that the intruder was near, but was more concerned for the safety of her chicks than for the scraps of seagull. It was a matter of priorities. Prior to the attack she had laboriously herded her brood under the safety of her wings. The largest eaglet was especially difficult to control. He kept trying to get out from under her wings and do his own thing, unaware of the danger to his life.

How very much we are like that willful chick. We want to do our own thing with little or no thought of the consequences of our actions. The Lord desires to cover us with His protective wings, but we fight with all of our might to escape. Then when we fall into the clutches of our enemy we wonder why God was not there to protect us.

_We need to come under the protective wings of the Lord before the marauder strikes._ _The Lord loves us and wants to cover us with His protective wings._ **WHATEVER IS HAPPENING IN YOUR LIFE AT THE PRESENT TIME, REALIZE THAT HIS WINGS ARE THERE TO COVER AND PROTECT YOU.**

# DAY 274 (October 1)

# GOD AT WORK!

Romans 8:28-30

"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters. And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified."

It is fantastic the way the Lord is able to work in ways that we cannot explain to touch a life that may not be open to traditional methods.

Such was the case many years ago in Nampa, Idaho. At the time I was on the staff of a large church. The captain of our prayer chain was Blanche McBee.

My wife, Joyce worked at an attorney firm in the city.

ONE OF THE YOUNG WOMEN WHO WORKED IN THE SAME OFFICE WITH JOYCE WAS CYNICAL TO ANYTHING SPIRITUAL. There seemed to be no way of breaking through her barrier to the claims of the gospel.

THAT IS UNTIL GOD STEPPED IN.

One morning this young woman returned from a trip to the post office. She had a thick notebook and started reading in it every chance she had.

The next day she asked Joyce if she knew a woman named Blanche McBee, who attended our church. Joyce immediately said she did and that Blanche was the captain of our prayer chain.

" **THAT EXPLAINS IT!" SHE SAID.**

YOU SEE BLANCHE HAD LISTED THE SPECIFIC PRAYER REQUESTS AND THEN DOCUMENTED WHEN THE PRAYER WAS ANSWERED.

It turned things around for the cynical young lady. She was now open to the things of God.

ON THE OTHER END, BLANCHE WAS ECSTATIC THAT HER LOST NOTEBOOK HAD BEEN FOUND. NEVER FEEL THAT THINGS ARE OUT OF CONTROL. GOD IS IN CONTROL!

#  DAY 275 (October 2)

# PURE CONTENTMENT!

Psalm 14:1-2: The fool says in his heart, 'There is no God.' They are corrupt, their deeds are vile; there is no one who does good. The LORD looks down from heaven on the sons of men to see if there are any who understand, any who seek God.

A few years ago I had a meeting in a popular coffee shop. We were seated near a table where three men were cynically discussing religion. I THINK THEIR COMMENTS WERE INTENDED FOR MY EARS SINCE I HAD ONCE WITNESSED TO THEM ABOUT THE LORD.

Professing to be wise, they were systematically tearing down churches, Christians, the Bible, repentance, and justification by faith. These so-called wise men rested their eternal destiny on their good deeds or imagined intellect.

WHAT IF THEY ARE RIGHT? WHAT IF THE BIBLE IS WRONG AND THE NECESSITY OF REPENTANCE IS WRONG?

I have never known a cynical person to be happy or contented. As a matter of fact, they are the most miserable people I have ever met. They search for something to satisfy their inner longing but are never able to find it.

As I consider my own life and the life of other Christians, I see a vivid contrast. There is joy and contentment that the cynics can never experience. Even if there is no heaven to gain, we have a joy that the world can never know. When faced with tragedy or pain, we have the comfort that only God can give.

**BUT WHAT IF THESE CYNICS ARE WRONG?** (I am convinced they are!) The tragic reality is that there is much more than the temporal feelings of this world at stake. **THERE IS ETERNITY STRETCHING OUT BEFORE US.** _The cynics will come face to face with the Judge of the universe who will pass eternal judgment against their failure to accept His wonderful offer of salvation_.

# DAY 276 (October 3)

# PEACE IN THE STORM!

John 14:27

Peace I leave with you; My peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.

Storms are frightening things. We have lived in areas where storm clouds were a frequent occurrence, especially in the spring or early summer. In northern Newfoundland, Canada, we experienced winds that exceeded 120 miles per hour. Now that is a storm!

Making our way in a small boat across the Straits of Juan de Fuca in Washington State one day, we encountered gale force winds and waves that towered above the boat—we could certainly relate to the disciples when they were on the Sea of Galilee, convinced they were all going to drown.

ONLY JESUS COULD STILL THAT STORM! PEACE, BE STILL!

There are still other storms that can be even more terrifying: The doctor's office calls and asks you to return as there is an abnormality in some of the tests. Further analysis confirms that it is a terminal illness.

Some storms can be spiritual: We are certain that God has given us a vision for a particular work, but without warning our vision crashes and is dead. We reel under the impact and question our next move.

**Can I tell you the next move to make in any storm of life? CALL UPON JESUS!** He is the One who can and will bring life out of death and purpose out of chaos.

HE IS OUR PEACE IN THE STORM!

# DAY 277 (October 4)

# INNOCENT HONESTY!

Proverbs 16:31

Gray hair is a crown of splendor; it is attained in the way of righteousness.

LAST WEEK I WAS BLESSED TO OFFICIATE AT THE WEDDING OF A BEAUTIFUL YOUNG WOMAN WHO HAD BEEN A MEMBER OF THE CONGREGATION I ONCE PASTORED.

It was a joy to watch as she and her lanky fiancé posed for photographs before the ceremony. _I could almost visualize when I had dedicated her to the Lord in front of the congregation many years earlier._

As I stood there watching while the photos were being taken, the bride's younger sister took my hand and shared how much she liked me. Then she uttered the gut-honest words that can only come from an eight-year-old, "We have a picture of you in the house. You sure look a lot older now than you did then."

She did not say these words to show any sort of disrespect, but with a simple awareness of the fact that YES, I DO LOOK OLDER NOW THAN I DID THEN.

THE REASON IS THAT THESE BODIES OF OURS REFLECT THE YEARS WE HAVE LIVED.

I shudder at the lengths people will go in the attempt to disguise their age. _I can still recall the day I was getting a haircut and was shocked at all of the grey hair on the cape the barber had placed around my shoulders._

Getting older is nothing to be ashamed of. Oh, how I wish that more appreciation were placed on advanced age in our society. As we read the words of today's Scripture, we note that these can be the most productive years of our life. **SENIOR CITIZENS, SERVE THE LORD WITH DISTINCTION!**

# DAY 278 (October 5)

# THE UNCLEAN THING!

Isaiah 52:11

Depart, depart, go out from there! Touch no unclean thing! Come out from it and be pure, you who carry the articles of the Lord's house.

Have you ever wondered why modern-day Christians are so weak and anemic? They may have the desire to live a victorious life, but regardless of the good intentions, there is an evil influence that seems to pervade.

I was just reading about a family that began experiencing traumatic changes in their family.

The husband's business began to go from bad to worse. Then the husband and wife experienced marital conflicts that were new and unexpected.

As they wisely prayed and sought counsel, they were asked if there was something new in their home. They could only remember a small troll doll they had purchased while on vacation.

THE COUPLE IMMEDIATELY REMOVED THE DOLL AND DESTROYED IT.

The unclean thing was put out of their life and Christ was on the throne. There was a dramatic change for the better in their family and business.

We have allowed many unclean things to encroach upon our homes and personal lives. It may be a type of music, pornography, fetishes, or any number of things.

IF YOU ARE FEELING THE BLAST OF EVIL IN YOUR HOME OR PERSONAL LIFE, I URGE YOU TO SPEND TIME WITH THE LORD AND ALLOW THE HOLY SPIRIT TO SHOW YOU THE UNCLEAN THING THAT NEEDS TO BE REMOVED.

# DAY 279 (October 6)

#  ANGELIC TRANSPORTATION!

Luke 16:22-23: The time came when the beggar died and the angels carried him to Abraham's side. The rich man also died and was buried. In Hades, where he was in torment, he looked up and saw Abraham far away, with Lazarus by his side.

Jesus was and is a wonderful Lord and Savior, but He was a marvelous story teller as well. His stories had a spiritual meaning and were known as parables. When asked why He taught in parables, Jesus explained that it was for the believers to understand, but that unbelievers would simply perceive it to be just a story.

Many of us will recall the parable of the rich man and a beggar covered with sores that relied on the scraps that fell from the rich man's table to sustain himself. We read that the rich man seemed to have everything and the beggar had nothing. There was another huge difference between the two of them: The beggar was a believer but the rich man was not.

They both died, as all mankind is destined to do. I am awestruck as I read what happens at the moment of their deaths. The beggar, who was a believer, was carried by angels into Paradise. Stop and think of what a sensation of ecstasy that would be. No more begging, suffering or pain. An eternity of bliss awaited him.

**THE RICH MAN, THE UNBELIEVER, ALSO DIED AND WAS BURIED.** How empty and final that sounds. What a contrast with the beggar who had eaten the scraps from his table. This rich man must have been aware of the poor man during his life since, when he is in torment, he asks for Lazarus to come and touch his tongue with a drop of water to ease the agony that would last for eternity. **WE MUST HAVE OUR NAME WRITTEN IN THE LAMB'S BOOK OF LIFE TO INSURE THE ANGELS WILL TRANSPORT US TO BE WITH THE LORD. BE PREPARED!**

# DAY 280 (October 7)

# TROUBLES!

2 Corinthians 6:3-4

We put no stumbling block in anyone's path, so that our ministry will not be discredited. Rather, as servants of God we commend ourselves in every way: in great endurance; in troubles, hardships and distresses.

As I write this I am listening to a gospel song that proclaims "I'm getting ready to leave this world."

ARE WE?

I mean, are we truly looking forward to the day when we will say goodbye to the things of this world and enter our eternal home?

In studying the biographies of some of the greatest saints across the ages, I learn that they often endured troublesome difficulties.

Many faced far greater problems than I have ever faced. Not only that, they dealt with these troubles with confidence in Jesus.

I have frequently heard certain ministers preach and teach a feel-good gospel. They seem to say that if you have enough faith you will never have to deal with sickness, pain, or catastrophic events.

When I hear their teachings I want to shout out for them to read about the life of Paul.

He endured more persecution than I can imagine, yet he was in the center of God's will.

THE DISCOVERY I'VE MADE IS THAT WE CAN HAVE VICTORY IN THE MIDDLE OF THE STORMS OF LIFE.

I recall a song we used to sing when I was a teenager — "TROUBLES MAY COME AND TROUBLES WILL GO; WE'LL TRUST IN JESUS COME WEAL OR WOE."

_Now that is my aim in life._

I KNOW THAT THERE WILL BE TROUBLES, BUT MY JESUS IS IN CONTROL.

# DAY 281 (October 8)

# **REJECTION!"**

Matthew 5:11-12

"Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you."

Over the years I have experienced rejection...not very often, I am happy to say, but it has occurred. In the instances where the offended person identified what I had done to offend them I felt more or less able to deal with it.

The real problem arises when a friend or family member throws you a body blow of rejection and offers no explanation as to the reason.

Sometimes they even refuse to speak with you, so you are left to struggle alone trying to understand what caused their resentment.

In these instances I have found that the answer is to be found in God's Word. I go into the pages and strive to see what God says about how to deal with the believer who rejects you without giving a reason.

YOU KNOW WHAT I HAVE FOUND?

It is in these times of unreasonable rejection that I am drawn closer to the Lord and find my comfort in Him.

The one or ones who reject me are not the ones I am responsible to; but the Lord who controls my life is the One who sees all and desires that I rest in Him. As He works in me, He will also work on the one who has rejected me.

GROWTH HURTS! REJECTION! Matthew 5:11-12

# DAY 282 (October 9)

# GET STARTED!

Philippians 3:12-14: Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.

I have a confession to make. The words that I write down five days each week for this E-Votional do not come easily.

My mind is always searching for an inspiration from the Lord as to what to write. Many times (if not most of the time) my inspiration comes from a passage of Scripture I have read; other times it springs from a memory of things long past, and still others come from observation of events that happen around me.

**Do you know what the hardest part is? Simply to GET STARTED!** There are always so many distractions and demands on my time that it is easy to put off the more essential tasks. (I am sure you have never had that problem. Cough! Cough **!) IF BY CHANCE YOU HAVE SUFFERED THE SAME MALADY, THERE IS HOPE FOR ALL OF US.**

I see at least two things that Paul urges us to do in order to get started in our walk with the Lord. _The first is to forget. Amazing isn't it?_ He wants us to forget the things that are past. I think that is because we cannot relive them, and to spend time dwelling on them will only take our minds off our spiritual objective which is to please the Lord. _The second thing Paul urges is for us to strain for what is ahead. In your mind you can visualize a runner straining to reach the goal line, his body leaning forward to be able to cross the finish line victoriously_ _._

# DAY 283 (October 10)

# OPEN MY EYES, LORD!

II Kings 6:7

"And Elisha prayed, and said, 'Lord, I pray, open his eyes that he may see.' Then the Lord opened the eyes of the young man, and he saw. And behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha."

I have worn glasses all of my life because of astigmatism in my left eye. I once worked for a Probate Judge who was near-sighted—he could see things close up, but was extremely impaired in seeing things at a distance. At some point Ed decided to have an eye examination.

The optometrist was shocked at the Judge's inability to see from a distance and immediately prescribed glasses to correct the problem.

IT WAS HILARIOUS HEARING ED EXCLAIM DELIGHTEDLY OVER ALL OF THE THINGS HE COULD NOW SEE THAT WERE NOT SEEN BEFORE. HE WAS ASTOUNDED THAT IT WAS POSSIBLE TO EVEN READ HOUSE NUMBERS FROM THE STREET!

As believers, we often suffer from limited vision in the spiritual realm. We are so focused on the things of this world that we fail to have our spiritual vision checked in order to be able to see things as God desires.

I want to have my own spiritual vision clear enough that I will be able to see the hand of God at work so that I can become a part of His Master Plan.

The way to do this is to dive into the Word of God and constantly seek to discover the things God wants me to see.

OPEN MY EYES, LORD!

#  DAY 284 (October 11)

# PATIENCE!

James 1:2-4

My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.

It seems like a lifetime ago that I was working for the Idaho Law Enforcement Planning Commission.

At the time, there were a number of things happening in my life that caused me to become very impatient. If a car was going too slow in front of me, I became frustrated. It was not that I really had to be somewhere at a particular time, I just did not want to be stuck behind a slow-poke driver.

On one occasion, while traveling out of state, I again had the frustrating experience of following a driver that consistently drove below the posted speed limit. I tried to control my anxiety, but just could not find the peace I needed.

WHEN I ARRIVED AT MY ROOM FOR THE NIGHT, I PRAYED AND ASKED THE LORD TO PLEASE HELP ME DEAL WITH THIS PROBLEM AREA.

I opened my Bible and it naturally landed on the Book of James. That is because I had been memorizing that book. When I read the first few verses I knew the Lord was speaking to me. I prayerfully asked Him to grant me patience. (When you pray that prayer, God is faithful to answer!)

The next morning I wanted to arrive at my meeting early, so when I went to the restaurant I sat at the counter. (You know that is the fastest way to get in and out. Nope!)

I sat there and sat there watching customer after customer enter, be seated at a booth, order, eat, pay, and leave...while I still sat...at the counter...waiting for my order to arrive.

GOD WAS ANSWERING MY PRAYER.

The waitress was embarrassed and would not even come my way. Almost an hour later she brought my order and apologized. I told her that it was not her fault, God was answering my prayer! She looked at me as if I were crazy.

WHEN YOU PRAY FOR PATIENCE, GET READY FOR GOD'S SENSE OF HUMOR!

#  DAY 285 (October 12)

# SAY NO!

1 Peter 3:11-12

Let him turn away from evil and do good; let him seek peace and pursue it. For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and His ears are open to their prayers; but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.

Years ago our family delighted in watching the Public Television presentation of a series called All Creatures Great and Small. It followed the exploits of a British country veterinarian in pre-World War II.

I recently purchased the books from which the television series was adapted. Once again I have been fascinated by life lived in a simpler time. There is one thing that has stood out in reading this semi-authentic history of an actual veterinarian at that time — the refusal to just say NO!

Time after time, the hero of the story, James Herriot, was persuaded to partake of copious amounts of liquor that he really did not wish to drink. The simple reason was that he did not know how to say NO!

I find myself wanting to yell at him across the decades of time to learn the secret of walking away in these situations. Having spent years in police work and the military, I certainly know what it feels like to be pressured into doing things my conscience warns against.

I can honestly say that taking a stand to do the right thing has not only saved me heartache, it has been a witness to those around me (even some of those who were enticing me to go against my Christian values).

I WANT TO ENCOURAGE EACH OF US TO SAY YES! TO THE LORD AND NO! TO SATAN'S TEMPTATIONS.

# DAY 286 (October 13)

# I WANT TO DRIVE!

1 Peter 5:5-6

Young men, in the same way be submissive to those who are older. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, 'God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.' Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that He may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.

It has been many years since I first took my driving test, was given a driver's license, and was allowed to drive my dad's car.

It was always a mystery to me why he was so ashen faced and somber when the keys were placed into my youthful hands and I rocketed out to the car and backed carefully out of the driveway.

I discovered the reason for his terrified expression when my own kids applied for their first driver's license and waited eagerly for my trembling hands to deliver the car keys into their all too eager hands.

Ah, the passage of time has a way of bringing around memories of the past—some good, some terrifying.

Our eagerness to be the one to operate a motor vehicle is an object lesson to teach us about our spiritual life—WE WANT TO DRIVE! We may not be qualified or adequately aware of the hazards which may lie up ahead, but we still want to take control.

The Apostle Peter advises the young men of the world to demonstrate humility. While this is a quality that is greatly prized by writers of Scripture, unfortunately it is not esteemed in our society.

We are more prone to see strutting, swaggering, bragging, and disdain by many young people who are disrespectful of their elders.

I hope you caught the words in this passage, ". . . In the same way." Immediately we should ask ourselves the question, "In the same way – what?" Peter has just been admonishing the elders to come under the authority of the Lord—serving in humility to Christ.

This strong, carnal desire to be our own master is contrary to God's pattern for His people. We are told to be gentle and humble before Him and with others. In the Old Testament book of Micah, we find this same pattern established. It tells us that from the very beginning God has desired a yielded and humble people.

LOOK AT WHAT IT SAYS IN CHAPTER 6, VERSE 8:

" **HE HAS SHOWED YOU, O MAN, WHAT IS GOOD. AND WHAT DOES THE LORD REQUIRE OF YOU? TO ACT JUSTLY AND TO LOVE MERCY AND TO WALK HUMBLY WITH YOUR GOD."**

That, my dear friend, is cutting to the bottom line. If you really and truly desire to find peace with God and harmony with those around you, do things God's way. These words in Micah are words of instruction for the daily walk of the believer.

SO YOU WANT TO DRIVE, DO YOU? IF YOU INSIST, BUT I WANT TO WARN YOU OF THE DANGERS YOU FACE.

The way is far too treacherous for us to do the driving. Our inexperience can only lead to disaster. It is so much better to let the One who knows the way control the wheel of our life.

#  DAY 287 (October 14)

# REMEMBER!

Genesis 40:21-23

He restored the chief cup bearer to his position, so that he once again put the cup into Pharaoh's hand—but he impaled the chief baker, just as Joseph had said to them in his interpretation. The chief cup bearer, however, did not remember Joseph; he forgot him.

Promises! How many times have we had our hearts crushed because promises that were made have been violated? It seems as if we live in a time when a promise to fulfill a vow is null and void. If we feel like it, okay. If it is more convenient to do something else, forget the promise!

It is the same way in our relationship with the Lord. We may remember when we were first filled with the thrill and excitement of our new walk with Christ. We promised to give our best to the Master, but that promise soon faded in the light of those temporary pleasures that make us feel good.

I want to ask you a question that I frequently ask of myself, so this is not intended to sound as if I am Mr. Goody-Goody Two Shoes. Here is the million dollar question: _Ten seconds after we breathe our last breath on this earth, what will be important...power, prestige, pleasure, popularity, plush surroundings?_

Sorry, but those things will have no value. There is an old quotation that seems as if it is a Scriptural passage, but I can't find it in the Bible. Here it is:

" _Only one life, t'will soon be past, only what's done for Christ will last!"_

REMEMBER YOUR FIRST LOVE AND THE JOY YOU HAD IN SERVING THE LORD!

#  DAY 288 (October 15)

# OUR ASSIGNMENT!

Hebrews 3:12-13: See to it, brothers and sisters, that none of you has a sinful, unbelieving heart that turns away from the living God. But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called 'Today,' so that none of you may be hardened by sin's deceitfulness.

There are a couple of truths that I have become more aware of through the years. The first is that we need encouragement and the second is that we need to encourage each other.

WE MIGHT THINK OF IT AS THE MINISTRY OF ENCOURAGEMENT.

You do not need a degree in divinity to minister to those around you. You just need to remind them of Jesus. The writer of Hebrews starts this passage by giving a personal challenge: _"See to it, brothers and sisters, that none of you has a sinful, unbelieving heart that turns away from the living God."_

Looking at that passage from a different point of view, we see that turning away from God results in a sinful and unbelieving heart. How tragic to see the shipwreck of people who turn away from God. What are we to do about it?

THE WRITER IS VERY CLEAR: "ENCOURAGE ONE ANOTHER DAILY." WE HAVE A PURPOSE IN LIFE AND THAT PURPOSE IS A DAILY PURPOSE.

Having spent time in police and military work, I know what it is to be given an assignment to be completed that day. Failure to accomplish the assignment could often result in lives being lost. It is a far greater responsibility to rescue the perishing and care for the dying. **THAT IS OUR ASSIGNMENT!**

#  DAY 289 (October 16)

# FAITHFUL FATHERS!

1 Thessalonians 2:11-12

For you know that we dealt with each of you as a father deals with his own children, encouraging, comforting and urging you to live lives worthy of God, who calls you into his kingdom and glory.

It is often thought that mothers bear the sole responsibility for the care and nurturing of their children. This is not biblical and certainly leaves a horrible gap in the care and protection of young children.

Recently, I was more than pleased to hear a young father tell about caring for his three-year- old daughter who was suffering with a cold and fever. He was afraid that he and his wife might not hear her if she called from her bedroom, so he took a blanket and slept on the floor in her room.

Oh, for more fathers who step out of the modern stereotypical role of father and demonstrate Godly qualities.

Fathers should go beyond just meeting the physical needs of their children to develop their spiritual maturity as well. According to this scripture in 1 Thessalonians, this is done by:

" **Encouraging, Comforting and Urging — To Live Lives Worthy of God." THIS IS A CALL FOR MEN TO STEP FORWARD AND SET THE EXAMPLE OF SPIRITUAL LEADERSHIP IN YOUR HOME.**

The young father that I mentioned earlier is not only providing for the physical wellbeing of his daughter, he is also training her in the ways of the Lord. **I AM PLEASED TO SAY THAT HE IS MY GRANDSON. WELL DONE, SETH!**

#  DAY 290 (October 17)

# BE CONTENT!

Hebrews 13:5: Let your conduct be without covetousness; be content with such things as you have. For He Himself has said, I will never leave you nor forsake you.

What is really important in your life? When all is said and done, what can you count as your most valuable possession?

There are people who live in massive and opulent homes that cost millions of dollars. It would be easy to think that they have reached the pinnacle of satisfaction, but that is usually not the case. These people are most likely to be miserable.

On the other extreme are those who live in humble dwellings that are in low income neighborhoods. Some who reside there spend considerable time and effort day dreaming about living in the homes of the rich and powerful.

LACK OF CONTENTMENT CAN BE EXPRESSED IN NUMEROUS WAYS. Some people are never satisfied with:

  * THEIR EMPLOYMENT,

  * THEIR MARRIAGE PARTNER,

  * THEIR APPEARANCE,

  * THEIR ABILITIES,

  * OR ANY NUMBER OF FACTORS THAT ARE COMMON TO THE HUMAN EXISTENCE.

Let's face it—we covet the things or qualities that others possess. Even some pastors covet larger churches or larger ministries.God calls us to find our true value in Him. He leads us and directs us in the path He has chosen for us. The path may be steep or rocky, but it is the wonderful way God has chosen to allow us to shine brightly in a world of sin. _REST IN THE CONTENTMENT THAT GOD KNOWS WHAT HE IS DOING, AND BY FINDING JOY IN YOUR PRESENT SITUATION, YOU MAY BE A TRUE MINISTER OF THE LORD JESUS CHRIST._

# DAY 291 (October 18)

# THOUGHTS AND WAYS!

Isaiah 55:8-9

For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways, says the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts.

When I was in high school I worked with my dad and brother to build a house. Being an immature teen, I would sometimes make a glaring mistake.

I remember one such incident and my dad said, "Honestly, Son, sometimes I wonder why you were ever born!" I just grinned and sassily replied, "Well, Dad, accidents happen!"

He was quick to chastise my remark and assure me that I had certainly been no accident.

I DEEPLY REGRETTED MY COMMENTS AND NEVER ASKED HIM TO EXPLAIN!

As a matter of fact, none of us are here by accident!

I am firmly convinced that God has a plan and purpose for each one of us. We may not have the same talents, gifts, or opportunities, but we have a unique purpose that God has designed for us.

THERE ARE TWO WORDS IN THE TODAY'S SCRIPTURE THAT GRAB MY ATTENTION.

  1. The first word is thought. It is from the Hebrew word machashabah; it also indicates a distinct plan and purpose. I am once again struck by the reality that God is never surprised about where we are and what is happening around us. He is in complete control and has us there for a purpose—HIS PURPOSE!

  2. The second word is way. In the Hebrew it is the word derek and conveys the meaning of being a path, direction or course of life.

I LOVE THE IDEA THAT EACH AND EVERY ONE OF US HAS A COURSE THAT IS SET OUT BEFORE US. WE HAVE NOT BEEN THIS WAY BEFORE AND THE WAY MAY SEEM UNFAMILIAR TO US, BUT THANK GOD, HE GOES BEFORE US AND HAS SET THE COURSE.

### ALL WE HAVE TO DO IS KEEP OUR EYES ON HIM AND FOLLOW.

# DAY 292 (October 19)

# LIVE IT!

Philippians 1:20-21

I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death. For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.

Way back in the 60's I was an Air Force Personnel Officer stationed in Shreveport, Louisiana.

The church we attended invited a guest speaker, a professor at a well-known seminary. That night the Sahara Desert could not have been any dryer than this man's message. He seemed to delight in using terms that even the most learned would find difficult to understand.

The best thing about his message was the "Amen" at the close!

Many years later I had become an ordained minister and attended a pastor's conference in Portland, Oregon. As I reviewed the program I noted there were many wonderful sessions with speakers I was eager to hear. READING FURTHER, TO MY SHOCK I SAW THAT THE SAME DULL SEMINARY PROFESSOR WAS SPEAKING AT ALL OF THE GENERAL SESSIONS. How could the organizers do this to us?!

At the first general session of the conference, as the professor began to speak, he assumed the persona of the character he wanted to highlight. The first character was Joseph.

HE SPOKE AS IF HE WERE ACTUALLY JOSEPH.

BEFORE A ROOM FILLED WITH PASTORS AND THEIR WIVES, THE DULL, DRY PROFESSOR TRANSFORMED INTO JOSEPH.

He expressed the thoughts Joseph must have felt at all the stages of his life. Incredibly, we were all leaning forward in our seats to listen to him live out the inner feelings that Joseph must have experienced.

WE COULD HARDLY WAIT FOR THE NEXT SESSION WHEN HE LIVED OUT ANOTHER BIBLE CHARACTER.

In like manner the Bible should come alive. We need to experience it in such a way that it is alive.

LIVE IT!

# DAY 293 (October 20)

# CONCRETE WORK!

2 Corinthians 5:17-19

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new. Now all things are of God, who has reconciled us to Himself through Jesus Christ, and has given us the ministry of reconciliation, that is, that God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not imputing their trespasses to them, and has committed to us the word of reconciliation.

I enjoy listening to people talk about what they do. I recall a job I had in my teens mixing concrete. Sand, gravel, and bags of powdered cement were delivered to the job site.

My assignment was to shovel a set quantity of each of those ingredients into a large mixer along with the right amount of water.

THAT WAS ONE OF THE HARDEST JOBS I EVER HAD.

After everything had been properly mixed, the wet cement was poured into wheelbarrows and transported to the prepared forms. Ah, yes, the forms. Without the forms the cement would just flow and puddle out on the ground and be of no use.

THE FORMS HAD BEEN PREPARED AHEAD OF TIME TO THE PROPER SHAPE AND SIZE. WHEN THE WET CEMENT WAS POURED INTO THE FORM, IT WAS ALLOWED TO DRY AND HARDEN...LIKE A ROCK...PROPERLY FORMED FOR A SPECIFIC PURPOSE.

There is a startling similarity between the life of a Christian and the process of preparing concrete. Without the proper ingredients added in the proper ratio at the proper time, it will result in an unstable and formless foundation.

Spending time with God in prayer and reading His Word will prepare our foundational "forms" for building that heavenly home that will never pass away. Which home are you spending your time and effort to build?

# DAY 294 (October 21)

# TWO MADE ONE!

Matthew 19:4-6: 'Haven't you read,' He replied, 'that at the beginning the Creator made them male and female, and said, 'For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh'? So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.'

It was nearly 63 years ago, July 10, 1952 to be exact, that Joyce and I became one flesh. It was a blazing hot day in Nampa, Idaho, and there was no such thing as air conditioning in the church. As a matter of fact, there was not even a fan.

JOYCE AND I WERE BOTH EIGHTEEN. We had first met when we were fourteen and had been sweethearts all through high school. People had a tendency to smirk and say we were too young. In fact, there was a song back in the 50's that we called our own, _THEY TRIED TO TELL US WE'RE TOO YOUNG._ People thought they knew best, but they did not know our level of devotion to each other.

While we were indeed quite young, we were totally committed to Jesus first and then to each other. Without apology we were both virgins and our decision to wait made our wedding day special. When we recited our vows in the presence of our family and friends, we were uniting our very being. We could actually feel that we had become one flesh.

ACROSS THOSE MANY YEARS WE GREW OLD TOGETHER. BECOMING ONE FLESH IS A BLESSING WE WOULD PRAY FOR EACH MARRIED HUSBAND AND WIFE.

#  DAY 295 (October 22)

# PRAYER WORRIERS!

James 1:5-8

If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That man should not think he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all he does.

I recall receiving an e-mail requesting prayer for a prayer "worrier." I am sure the writer meant prayer "WARRIOR," but this person did what I have done so many times—misspelled a word and thus changed the meaning.

I have been considering the difference between the two words. I went to the dictionary and found this definition for warrior: _"One who is engaged in or experienced in battle. One who is engaged aggressively or energetically in an activity, cause, or conflict?"_

THAT SOUNDS LIKE SOMEONE YOU WOULD LIKE ON YOUR SIDE, RIGHT?

On the other hand, here is the definition for worrier: "One who thinks about unfortunate things that might happen." Whoops! That is certainly not the person I would feel confident to have in my corner as a prayer partner.

THE AMPLIFIED Bible GIVES A CLEAR PICTURE OF WHAT WE MAY CALL A PRAYER WORRIER INSTEAD OF A PRAYER WARRIOR

"[For being as he is] a man of two minds (hesitating, dubious, irresolute), [he is] unstable and unreliable and uncertain about everything [he thinks, feels, decides]." May that never be a description of our prayer life! **BE A PRAYER WARRIOR!!**

# DAY 296 (October 23)

# THE SHADOW OF DEATH!

Psalm 23:1-4

The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His name's sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.

SHADOWS ARE SCARY AND DECEPTIVE THINGS.

They are always larger than the object that actually casts the shadow.

During my days as a police officer I had my wits scared out of me several times by shadows that appeared to be a serious threat...but upon investigation it turned out to be a small cat or dog standing in front of a light source.

DEATH IS A CERTAINTY FOR EACH OF US.

Someone has said that the death rate for humans is 100 per cent. That is true, and across the ages of time there has been a fearful dread of our final farewell to life on this earth.

For those who have not experienced the new birth, and thus not having their name written in the Lamb's Book of Life, there is reason to fear death.

What about those of us who have received that new birth? Our eternal life with Christ has begun.

Satan has done an excellent job of causing believers to live in fear of death.

There is a fantastic passage in Psalm 116:15 that we should memorize to assure ourselves and others:

" **Precious in the sight of The Lord is the death of His saints."**

**FOR THAT REASON WE CAN FACE DEATH WITH THE ASSURANCE AND CONFIDENCE THAT ONE STEP INTO GLORY WILL ERASE ALL OF THE CARES OF THIS WORLD!**

# DAY 297 (October 24)

# PURSUE KNOWLEDGE!

2 Peter 1:5-7

BUT ALSO FOR THIS VERY REASON, GIVING ALL DILIGENCE,

  * add to your faith virtue,

  * to virtue knowledge,

  * to knowledge self-control,

  * to self-control perseverance,

  * to perseverance godliness,

  * to godliness brotherly kindness, and

  * to brotherly kindness love.

PRIDE TAKES MANY FORMS. ONE OF THESE IS SELF-CONFIDENCE.

We often believe we know what is right without taking the time to seek God's will and purpose for our actions.

Since the Garden of Eden humans have listened to the whispers of Satan telling them they are able to make their own decisions without listening to God. The human mind is remarkable, but when it comes to knowing the right choices, we are at a loss.

We might agree that salvation is obtained by grace through faith. We follow that step by trying to live a virtuous life. Peter, writing under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, says that after virtue we are to seek knowledge. That is what Solomon asked for when he became king of Israel following the death of his father, David.

All through his reign, as well as the reign of the other leaders before and after, when they asked God for wisdom, God answered. When they acted in their own instincts, they failed.

The great question confronting each of us is whether we will accept God's knowledge as revealed in the Bible, or rely on our own abilities.

I CHOOSE TO TRUST IN THE LORD AND FIND GODLY KNOWLEDGE.

# DAY 298 (October 25)

# THE HEAD OVER ALL!

1 Chronicles 29:11

Yours, Lord, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the majesty and the splendor, for everything in heaven and earth is Yours. Yours, Lord, is the kingdom; You are exalted as head over all.

PRESIDENTS, KINGS, PRIME MINISTERS, OR OTHER OFFICIALS CAN GET THE IDEA THAT THEY ARE SOMETHING SPECIAL.

They may watch as their minions bow and scrape in their presence, but when their eyes close in death, they will discover who really is the Head over all!

We may be critical of those in leadership positions, but what about us who were not born into aristocracy or have never been elected to some prestigious office?

What about those of us who have not attained a title after our name and been treated with respect because of it? Here it comes! We can be just as guilty as the titled office holders. We may be king or queen of a particular area.

  * Someone may feel in charge of the kitchen.

  * Another person controls the family car.

  * At work someone may dominate the scene like a little Caesar.

  * I THINK YOU GET THE PICTURE.

In the Old Testament book of 1 Chronicles, we discover that King David in his last days gave us a reality check on where we are to direct our praise.

_Only the God who created all things is deserving of our honor, glory, and adoration._ **He is to be EXALTED as the HEAD over everything. HOW DO YOU MEASURE UP?**

# DAY 299 (October 26)

# ONE LITTLE APOSTROPHE!

Matthew 5:17-18

Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them. For truly I tell you, until heaven and earth disappear, not the smallest letter, not the least stroke of a pen, will by any means disappear from the Law until everything is accomplished.

I recently received a card from my dentist reminding me of an appointment. The card was in the form of a comic strip favorite of ours, Pickles by Brian Crane.

The elderly couple were sitting on a porch swing and the husband complimented his wife by observing, "In the moonlight your teeth look like pearls." The wife replied, "Who is Pearl and what were you doing in the moonlight with her?"

THE DIFFERENCE WAS A SMALL PUNCTUATION MARK, AN APOSTROPHE (') TO INDICATE THAT THE NOUN PEARLS BECAME PEARL'S. WOW!

Back when I was a teenager there was a popular misquote of Scripture that was intended to be humorous and justified suicide. It went something like this:

" _Judas went out and hanged himself. Go thou and do likewise. And whatsoever thou doest, do quickly."_

THERE HAVE BEEN MANY ATTEMPTS TO CHANGE THE MEANING OF SCRIPTURE TO FIT A PARTICULAR LIFESTYLE.

For that matter, many have ignored the importance of the Old Testament and they have denied the power of God's Word to direct the affairs of mankind. How tragically sad!

May God keep our minds ever alert to deception!

# DAY 300 (October 27)

# WHAT IS SURE?

Psalm 19:9-10

The fear of the Lord is pure, enduring forever. The ordinances of the Lord are sure and altogether righteous. They are more precious than gold, than much pure gold; they are sweeter than honey, than honey from the comb.

Perhaps you have heard the saying "THERE IS NOTHING SURE BUT DEATH AND TAXES!" That is a cynical expression, and it is far from the truth.

There are many certainties in God's Word that are sure and never changing.

It is sad to observe some church bodies that have the audacity to legislate actions or activities that are in violation of Scripture.

Let me tell you something: These votes have absolutely no standing with God. He certainly does not check with church policies to determine what is proper or improper.

HIS WORD STANDS!

In Luke 21:33, Jesus assures us with these words of eternal confidence **: "HEAVEN AND EARTH WILL PASS AWAY, BUT MY WORDS WILL NEVER PASS AWAY."**

Those words, spoken by our Savior, are as true and sure as anything can ever be.

If there is ever a time in your life when you struggle for a solid rock to stand upon, it is God's unchanging Word.

Any time a conflict arises we should ask ourselves the question, "WHAT DOES GOD'S WORD SAY ABOUT IT?"

Digging into Scripture to discover answers is hard work. It will require reading, searching concordances, Bible dictionaries, etc., but the result will be well worth the effort.

WE WILL FIND THAT HIS WORD IS SURE!

# **DAY 301 (October 28)**

# CHOOSE JOY!

Habakkuk 3:17-18

Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Savior.

Why in the world would I choose a title like the one I have chosen for today?

Isn't it natural that everyone would choose joy? NOPE!

You see, we usually associate joy with the favorable things that we encounter. I think it is appropriate to recall a poem I composed some time ago:

When all the world is bright and gay,  
When skies are blue, instead of gray,  
When health and wealth are close at hand,  
It does not take a lot of sand  
To sing and shout to beat the band.

BUT—

When all around you turns to gray,  
When family and friends seem to slip away,  
This is now the time to take your stand!  
In faith reach out to God and take His hand!

Even in the midst of the unfavorable things we encounter, we need to choose to find our joy in the Lord.

Things of this world will constantly change between good and bad, but when we choose joy in every circumstance, it opens the door to bless us as well as those around us. CHOOSE JOY!

# **DAY 302 (October 29)**

# FINDING THE LOST!

Luke 15:3-6

Then Jesus told them this parable: 'Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Doesn't he leave the ninety-nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it? And when he finds it, he joyfully puts it on his shoulders and goes home. Then he calls his friends and neighbors together and says, 'Rejoice with me; I have found my lost sheep.

When our oldest daughter (who has since gone to be with the Lord) was in high school, she had problems with her teeth. To correct the problem the dentist had fitted her with a retainer.

It was an expense that really stretched our limited budget.

Our hearts sank when she came home one day to announce that she had lost her retainer.

The shock of the loss was followed by an examination of where she could have lost it. The only place she could remember taking it out was in the lunch room.

We were filled with hope and dread: Hope of finding it and dread at having to dig through a messy dumpster that held all of the kitchen waste.

Looking for a needle in a haystack may have been harder, but it certainly would have smelled sweeter.

Hour after hour we searched and even after dark we used lights, but found nothing. It was the next day that our daughter found the retainer in her purse.

THAT INCIDENT OCCURRED OVER 50 YEARS AGO AND I STILL RECALL THE JOY AT FINDING THE LOST.

Sometimes we have friends and family that are lost. We watch and pray for some way to reach them. What joy we feel when a lost soul is found.

It is worth all of our effort to seek the lost. Only eternity will reveal the significance.

# **DAY 303 (October 30)**

# STAND FIRM!

1 Corinthians 15:58

Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.

Please indulge me by reading today's Scripture over two or three times. Having done so do you see something a little strange?

When Paul uses the term "stand firm," it is a labor for Christ.

It reminds me of something I read in David Benson's book, Miracle In Moscow (which may still be available from Amazon). David has granted me permission to quote from it.

During the cold war David risked his life to deliver Bibles to believers in the USSR. It had been six months since he had heard from the Christian Brother that was his contact.

As he stood at the place where they were to meet, the man did not appear and David had no way of locating him in a city of 7 million people. Let me quote from David's book:

"I began to pray for guidance, but before I could get one word out, God said, Benson, for once keep quiet! Before the sun goes down you will see My glory.'

Then the great promise God gave the children of Israel, 'Fear not, stand still and see the salvation of the Lord!' flashed into mind.

"At that time of year the sun over Moscow goes down around 4:00 P.M. That gave two hours to work! Also I was to 'stand still.' I did not take that literally for to stand like a statue in front of the Bolshoi Theater with luggage would certainly draw the attention of some policeman, who at best might think I was a lost tourist and offer his unwanted aid. I took 'stand still' to mean that I should not try to figure a way out of my predicament, that I must do something contrary to what I thought I should do.

On former trips to Moscow I had bought all kinds of plays, speeches and poetry readings recorded on long play discs. These I shipped back to the States and used to improve my Russian. The only play I had been unable to find was one by Chekhov.

Across the square from the Bolshoi theater is the Metropole Hotel, a grand structure built by the Tsars. It is now used for tourists, and most of the rooms were outfitted with listening devices.

I took a long shot, not really knowing why. With Bibles in bags and clothing, I walked into this hall lined on both sides with desks behind which sat Communist agents 'ready to help you with any of your travel problems.' I had a problem all right, but no one in that room must know it. I recognized a woman I had met before. She never smiled but was all efficiency and obviously a sold-out Marxist. I knew if I wanted answers she would have them. As I asked about the Chekhov plays I was well aware of the large number of Bibles I carried."

I will break away from his narrative to say that this woman scribbled out an address of a particular record shop and said "You will find everything you want there." She emphasized the words I have highlighted. The cab driver used the same words and the same emphasis: "You will find everything you want there."

As David arrived near the record shop and placed his bags on the icy sidewalk, he was aware of many people rushing up and down.

He stared in the shop window and thought of the song, "Fools Rush in Where Angels Fear to Tread." David picked up his bags and was bumped into by a short, stocky man. It was Vitya! — The contact to whom he was to deliver the Bibles.

Only by the grace of God was this wonderful miracle performed. The Communist authorities had moved Vitya and there was no way for him to let David know where he was...but God knew where Vitya was.

AS DAVID STOOD FIRM, THE LORD DID A MIGHTY THING.

Are we standing firm in our daily walk with the Lord? Are we trying to do God's work our way hoping it will please God?

God is not interested in our efforts to do His work our way. He is looking for followers who will stand firm and allow Him to lead us.

# **DAY 304 (October 31)**

# OUR NEW TENT!

2 Corinthians 5:17

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.

As mentioned previously, I enjoy hearing people talk about what they do. I recall listening to fighter pilots describe the terror of combat and how close they came to death.

I have also been enthralled as deep sea fishermen in Newfoundland related their close calls with death.

The apostle Paul was a tent maker by trade. I can almost visualize his calloused fingers and hands. I am sure that there were some tents that bore marks from years of stretching and stitching the fabric to repair the tents.

He knew when a tent could be repaired or when it was time to throw the tattered remains of the old tent away and go about making a new one.

In today's Scripture, Paul uses his profession as a tent maker to illustrate a spiritual truth: This human body of ours is not going to survive. There are those who try to reverse the aging process in various ways, but nothing is going to keep us from coming to the end of our life and entering eternity.

It is sad that most of us spend far too much time and effort on things that will pass away. By spending so much time on earthly things, we neglect the things that really count—those things that have eternal value. Spending time with God in prayer and reading His Word will prepare us for that heavenly home that will never pass away.

WHICH HOME ARE YOU SPENDING YOUR TIME AND EFFORT TO BUILD?

#  DAY 305 (November 1)

# ON EAGLE'S WINGS!

Isaiah 40:31

But those who wait on the LORD shall renew their strength; They shall mount up with wings like eagles, They shall run and not be weary, They shall walk and not faint.

On the wall above my desk is a very special framed piece of counted cross stitch. It depicts an eagle in flight along with the words of today's Scripture, and it has a very special place in my heart. It was a birthday gift from our daughter, Brenda, back in 1991.

Brenda had been working on it for my birthday in March. She was desperately ill, which slowed down her work. But Brenda said that even though she had not finished it for my birthday, she was determined to complete it before she went to be with the Lord. Brenda presented her gift to me just a few days before her death.

Each time I glance up to that framed scripture of Isaiah 40:31 on the wall, I recall Brenda's labor of love. It means much more to know that she was thinking of her dad as she made each stitch.

This fantastic verse reminds us of one of God's most precious promises: When we wait on the Lord, He will renew our strength. We get into trouble when we attempt to develop our own strength instead of waiting for Him. Anytime people run ahead of God and rely upon their own strength, they get into trouble. On the other hand, when people inquire of the Lord and wait for Him to lead, they are rewarded with His power.

The thought I want to leave with us today is that we need to spend our time in fellowship with the Lord...reading His Word, speaking with Him in prayer, and listening patiently for His still small voice to guide us. **NOT RUNNING AHEAD OF HIM OR LAGGING BEHIND HIM, BUT WALKING CLOSE AT HIS SIDE.**

# DAY 306 (November 2)

# THE LOVE TEST!

1 Corinthians 13:4-7

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.

ARE YOU READY FOR THE LOVE TEST?

Do you consider yourself a lover of God and a lover of the members of the family of God?

Do you love the lost and dying enough to give yourself fully to the work of the Lord?

IT IS TIME FOR THE LOVE TEST!

Read 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 once more, but with a difference. Replace the word love with the name Jesus:

  * Jesus is patient,

  * Jesus is kind,

  * Jesus does not envy,

  * Jesus does not boast,

  * Jesus is not proud,

  * Jesus does not dishonor others, Jesus is not self-seeking,

  * Jesus is not easily angered,

  * Jesus does not delight in evil but He rejoices with the truth.

  * Jesus always protects, always trusts, always hopes, and always perseveres.

  * JESUS NEVER FAILS!

Now read it once again and replace the word love with your own name.

This is your personal love test. It is rather embarrassing isn't it? There may be a few attributes that we come close to achieving, but for the most part we receive a low grade.

It is amazing how perfectly Jesus fits into this passage. Jesus was the Father's expression of love to a lost and dying world. Where we fail, He succeeds.

He reaches down and draws us close to Him. We are not saved by passing the test, we are saved because Jesus loved us enough to die for us.

If you have never opened your heart and received Jesus as your Savior, do so before it is too late!

#  DAY 307 (November 3)

# PURPOSE!

2 Timothy 1:9-10

He has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of His own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time, but it has now been revealed through the appearing of our Savior, Christ Jesus, who has destroyed death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel.

# PURPOSE!

  * WHY AM I HERE?

  * WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF MY EXISTENCE?

  * HAS GOD GIVEN ME A REASON FOR BEING?

  * DO I HAVE AN IMPACT ON THE LIVES OF THOSE IN MY SPHERE OF INFLUENCE?

  * HAVE I SEEN GOD AT WORK IN THE LIVES OF THOSE AROUND ME BECAUSE I WAS USED BY THE LORD?

These are just a few of the questions we may ask ourselves to determine what God's purpose is for each of us. I have even counseled people who felt that they had no spiritual purpose in life. Others had gifts and talents, but they had nothing to give, and so they left the work of the Lord up to others.

I once passed a church and saw a man I knew mowing the lawn. When I asked him if the church hired him to mow the lawn, he informed me that they had no idea he was doing it.

HE SAW A NEED AND PERFORMED IT.

I discovered that there were a number of elderly people that he also helped out. It was his purpose for those in need.

Your purpose in serving the Lord may not be a ministry such as preaching or teaching.

When the Holy Spirit opens your eyes to some need, no matter how insignificant it may seem, go for it!

Your purpose might seem unimportant to you, but obeying the Lord is vital to being a faithful servant.

# DAY 308 (November 4)

# WATCH OUT!

Matthew 25:10-13

But while they were on their way to buy the oil, the bridegroom arrived. The virgins who were ready went in with him to the wedding banquet. And the door was shut. Later the others also came. 'Lord, Lord,' they said, 'Open the door for us!' But he replied, 'Truly I tell you, I don't know you.' Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour.

More and more people are being killed and injured in highway accidents because they were using their cell phones.

Just today I heard of a young woman who was texting and driving. A car in front of her signaled and slowed to make a left turn. The woman who was texting struck the other driver's car at full speed. The innocent driver of the car that had signaled and slowed to turn was killed.

WATCH OUT!

When we are wide awake and alert it is much easier to react quickly and appropriately.

When we become preoccupied with other things we lose focus and the result can be catastrophic.

WATCH OUT!

In our spiritual walk we never know when the enemy will mount an attack. We can almost be certain that this attack will occur when we are weary, worn, and inattentive to the things that are really vital.

WATCH OUT!

If we have not spent the time in self-examination, prayer, and Bible study, we will be very vulnerable to the attack. There is one thing we can be sure about:

WE WILL MEET OUR LORD FACE TO FACE.

It may be at the moment our eyes close in death or it may be when the trumpet sounds and we are called up to meet the Lord in the air.

Either way, we must be on the alert with our lamps full of oil and burning bright.

#  DAY 309 (November 5)

# TRUST!

Proverbs 3:5-6

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.

Over the years I have kept Proverbs 3:5-6 in my heart. I am not sure at what age I set the words to memory, but it certainly has been more than seventy years ago.

THAT IS THE THING ABOUT THE WORD OF GOD—IT NEVER CHANGES.

We may change, but the Word of God remains steadfast and true.

The definition of "TRUST" is: Assured reliance on the character, ability, strength, or truth of someone or something.

After pondering on this definition, read today's Scripture once again. Do you see how vital it is for us to rely on the One who is above all others?

OUR TASK IS TO PLACE OUR FULL TRUST IN THE LORD COMPLETELY.

That means we talk with Him as we read His Word and, before we take any action, we ask for His will in the matter. Just think of all the messy situations we could have avoided across the years of our lives if we had placed our trust in Him rather than relying on our own abilities or our own understanding.

We may not be able to undo all of our past mistakes when we have left the Lord out of our decisions, but we can certainly do something about it going forward.

We can make a new commitment to repeat these two verses each morning and then follow His directions.

# DAY 310 (November 6)

# THE SIN OF GOSSIP!

2 Corinthians 12:20

For I am afraid that when I come I may not find you as I want you to be, and you may not find me as you want me to be. I fear that there may be discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, slander, gossip, arrogance and disorder.

DURING WORLD WAR II THERE WAS A SLOGAN THAT WAS BROADCAST ON RADIO, DISPLAYED ON BILLBOARDS, AND PUBLISHED IN NEWSPAPERS:

" **LOOSE LIPS SINK SHIPS!"**

What did that mean? It meant that there may be spies close by and if you carelessly revealed information about the war effort, it could result in peril to our fighting forces.

As a young boy living in a small town fairly close to the Pacific coast, I felt the concern of the adults around me. Many families had sons or daughters serving in the military and others worked in the defense industry. They knew that silence was not only the best policy, it was the only policy.

How do we relate that slogan to a spiritual concept? The mouth is often used as a WMD — a weapon of mass destruction. Cruel and harsh things are spoken which wound and maim those within earshot.

HOW WOULD JESUS SAY IT?

All too often I hear Christians saying things that would be better left unsaid, or to be said in a gentler and quieter way. God is not pleased with Christians who scream out in rage.

HE WANTS US TO SPEAK WORDS OF ENCOURAGEMENT AND HOPE.

# DAY 311 (November 7)

# EITHER WAY!

Philippians 1:21-24

For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know! I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far; but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body.

SOMEONE ONCE MADE A VERY PROFOUND OBSERVATION: "The percentage of death is 100%."

That may be profound, but it is not at all original. It reminds me of an old song called "Little Jimmy Brown," which spoke of the birth, marriage, and death of a man just known as Jimmy Brown.

As we make our way through this life, we need to be aware that we are all destined to die (unless the Lord calls us home in the Rapture).

SO, HOW MANY YEARS WILL WE LIVE?

None of us has the answer to that question. Now in my 80's, I am well aware that I am in the zone. But then I stop and remember that I had grandparents and one parent who lived into their 90's. Only God knows how long I will remain.

You know what? That does not distress me. The Lord has given me a meaningful ministry and be it a few days or many years, I am content in trusting myself into the arms of my Savior.

I can honestly say "EITHER WAY!"

When I use the term either way, I do not want to imply a flippant attitude, but that is truly the way I feel. The Lord has blessed me in so many ways that I could never count them all. As Paul says in today's Scripture: **"FOR TO ME, TO LIVE IS CHRIST AND TO DIE IS GAIN." EITHER WAY!**

# DAY 312 (November 8)

# GOD IS IN CONTROL!"

2 Corinthians 12:8-9: Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. But he said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me.

A story is told of a very poor man who lived in ancient times that had only one son and one horse. As the son grew older, he used the horse to plow the fields, to haul the produce to market, and to ride from place to place on various errands.

PEOPLE SHOWED NO PITY AND OFTEN MADE DISPARAGING REMARKS ABOUT HIS POVERTY.

Things went from bad to worse for the poor man when his son was thrown off the horse and suffered a broken leg. The people shook their heads, clucked their tongues, and wondered what evil thing this poor man had done to have such bad fortune befall him. But he would just smile and reply, "The Lord knows what I need. I will still trust Him."

Soon after the son's accident, the king dispatched messengers to each village and demanded that every able-bodied young man report for battle immediately. The only one in this age group who was not conscripted was the poor man's injured son. Several weeks later, the sad news of a terrible defeat for the king's army reached the village. Now the man who had once been pitied was considered to be the one who was blessed.

**ROMANS 8:28 IS TRUE IN ANY AND EVERY CIRCUMSTANCE:** _"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose."_ ****

As a child of God, He may delay the answer to our prayer, or He may deny it as He did with Paul. Just remember, whatever the Lord determines for our lives, His grace is sufficient.

# DAY 313 (November 9)

# STORMS!

Luke 8:23-25: As they sailed, He fell asleep. A squall came down on the lake, so that the boat was being swamped, and they were in great danger. The disciples went and woke Him, saying, 'Master, Master, we're going to drown!' He got up and rebuked the wind and the raging waters; the storm subsided, and all was calm. 'Where is your faith?' He asked his disciples. In fear and amazement they asked one another, 'Who is this? He commands even the winds and the water, and they obey him.

For a land lubber like me, a few wavelets cause me to head for shore. One day I was fishing with my dad on a lake in Idaho in his small aluminum boat that was not meant for any sort of extreme wave action. We were on the far side of the lake from our camp when the weather looked threatening. It was time to head for home!

About halfway across the lake the wind picked up and the water, which had been smooth and calm, now suddenly began to threaten. The waves grew to the point they were sloshing over the sides of our boat. We were fortunate to come under the protection of a piece of land that jutted out into the lake. We were saved! Yeah!

I make no apologies for my fondness of watching the Weather Channel. The reports are primarily focused on the U.S., but when major storms threaten other parts of the globe they report them as well. **AS I HAVE MENTIONED BEFORE, WE HAVE ENCOUNTERED STORMS IN OUR LIFE.**

I can say with confidence that you also have encountered storms, are going through them right now, or you will face them in the future. **AS HIS DISCIPLES HAVE ALWAYS DONE—CALL FOR JESUS TO CALM THE STORM!**

# DAY 314 (November 10)

# ENCOURAGE!

1 Thessalonians 5:9-11

For God did not appoint us to suffer wrath but to receive salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.

Each of us needs to feel the lift that we receive when someone encourages us. As a preacher, I have been encouraged by the expressions of affirmation when I share a truth.

Sometimes these affirmations may not take the form of glowing comments of praise.

It was over 50 years ago and I had been invited to preach at a small church not too far from our home. The pastor was a friend of ours (I am sure that was the only reason I had been invited to speak).

As I entered the church I noticed one of the most dynamic evangelists in our denomination was in the crowd. I have to confess that my delivery that night was not eloquent and I did a great deal of thrashing through my notes to make my points.

This precious evangelist was on crutches and after the service he laboriously made his way to speak with me.

In a gentle and quiet voice he spoke in my ear, "Son, don't get discouraged. I have found myself thrashing through those same bushes as I have preached. Just keep on telling about Jesus."

To me that was sincere encouragement.

HAVE YOU TAKEN THE TIME RECENTLY TO ENCOURAGE SOMEONE?

# DAY 315 (November 11)

# QUALIFIED!

Ephesians 2:8-10: For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.

Today I was listening to a local radio station that plays only music from the 30's, 40's, and 50's. One of the songs was unfamiliar to me and I was struck by the message that it conveyed.

The lyrics said that you have to live right to get to heaven. That false message has been around for generations. IT IS WRONG! The stuff Hollywood has been dishing out for years is false.

No bells ring and we do not become angels. We are a separate creation from the angels and God has graciously given us the opportunity to become the bride of Christ. I think it is natural for us to feel that we have to do something in order to earn our salvation, but it just is not so.

When I was in the U.S. Air Force I served as a Minuteman Missile Launch Officer. There were weeks of schooling followed by hours spent in a simulator.

Every step we took was under the careful scrutiny of our instructors. After successfully completing the required work we received our Missile Combat Officer's pin. QUALIFIED!

THERE IS NO SUCH REQUIREMENT IN THE SPIRITUAL REALM.

THERE ARE NO CLASSES TO TAKE, TESTS TO PASS, OR EVALUATIONS TO BE MADE. IT IS A SINCERE DECISION TO CONFESS THAT WE ARE SINNERS IN NEED OF A SAVIOR AND INVITE JESUS TO COME INTO OUR HEART.

FROM THAT VERY MOMENT WE ARE QUALIFIED!

# **VETERANS DAY**

On the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918, an armistice, or temporary cessation of hostilities, was declared between the Allied nations and Germany in the First World War, then known as "the Great War." Commemorated as Armistice Day beginning the following year, November 11th became a legal federal holiday in the United States in 1938. In the aftermath of World War II and the Korean War, Armistice Day became Veterans Day, a holiday dedicated to American veterans of all wars.

THE GREAT WAR & ARMISTICE DAY

Though the Treaty of Versailles was signed on June 28, 1919, November 11 remained in the public imagination as the date that marked the end of the Great War. In November 1918, U.S. President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed November 11 as the first commemoration of Armistice Day. The day's observation included parades and public gatherings, as well as a brief pause in business activities at 11 a.m. On November 11, 1921, an unidentified American soldier killed in the war was buried at Arlington National Cemetery in Washington, D.C.; the U.S. Congress had declared the day a legal federal holiday in honor of all those who participated in the war. On the same day, unidentified soldiers were laid to rest at Westminster Abbey in London and at the Arc de Triomphe in Paris.

DID YOU KNOW?

Red poppies, a symbol of World War I (from their appearance in the poem "In Flanders Fields" by John McCrae), are sold in Canada and the United Kingdom on Remembrance Day to raise money for veterans or worn in the lapel as a tribute.

On June 4, 1926, Congress passed a resolution that the "recurring anniversary of [November 11, 1918] should be commemorated with thanksgiving and prayer and exercises designed to perpetuate peace through good will and mutual understanding between nations" and that the president should issue an annual proclamation calling for the observance of Armistice Day. By that time, 27 state legislatures had made November 11 a legal holiday. An act approved May 13, 1938 made November 11 a legal Federal holiday, "dedicated to the cause of world peace and to be hereafter celebrated and known as 'Armistice Day.'" In actuality, there are no U.S. national holidays because the states retain the right to designate their own, and the government can only designate holidays for federal employees and for the District of Columbia. In practice, however, states almost always follow the federal lead.

FROM ARMISTICE DAY TO VETERANS DAY

American effort during World War II (1941-1945) saw the greatest mobilization of the U.S. Army, Navy, Marines and Air Force in the nation's history (more than 16 million people); some 5.7 million more served in the Korean War (1950 to 1953). In 1954, after lobbying efforts by veterans' service organizations, the 83rd U.S. Congress amended the 1938 act that had made Armistice Day a holiday, striking the word "Armistice" in favor of "Veterans." President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed the legislation on June 1, 1954. From then on, November 11 became a day to honor American veterans of all wars.

The next development in the story of Veterans Day unfolded in 1968, when Congress passed the Uniform Holidays Bill, which sought to ensure three-day weekends for federal employees–and encourage tourism and travel–by celebrating four national holidays (Washington's Birthday, Memorial Day, Veterans Day and Columbus Day) on Mondays.

The observation of Veterans Day was set as the fourth Monday in October. The first Veterans Day under the new law was Monday, October 25, 1971; confusion ensued, as many states disapproved of this change, and continued to observe the holiday on its original date. In 1975, after it became evident that the actual date of Veterans Day carried historical and patriotic significance to many Americans, President Gerald R. Ford signed a new law returning the observation of Veterans Day to November 11th beginning in 1978. If November 11 falls on a Saturday or Sunday, the federal government observes the holiday on the previous Friday or following Monday, respectively.

CELEBRATING VETERANS DAY AROUND THE WORLD

Britain, France, Australia and Canada also commemorate the veterans of World Wars I and II on or near November 11th: Canada has Remembrance Day, while Britain has Remembrance Sunday (the second Sunday of November). In Europe, Britain and the Commonwealth countries it is common to observe two minutes of silence at 11 a.m. every November 11.

In the United States, an official wreath-laying ceremony is held each Veterans Day at the Tomb of the Unknowns in Arlington National Cemetery, while parades and other celebrations are held in states around the country. Veterans Day is not to be confused with Memorial Day–a common misunderstanding, according to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Memorial Day (the fourth Monday in May) honors American service members who died in service to their country or as a result of injuries incurred during battle, while Veterans Day pays tribute to all American veterans–living or dead–but especially gives thanks to living veterans who served their country honorably during war or peacetime.

#  DAY 316 (November 12)

# OUR FUTURE!

Jeremiah 29:11-13

' _For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call on Me and come and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. You will seek Me and find Me when you seek Me with all your heart.'_

Our daughter was recently going through some old photo albums when she came upon an old black and white photo showing a husband and wife and their two sons. It took a few seconds to recognize our family. Mom and Dad were in their thirties, my brother Harold around twelve, and I was about five.

It really brought back memories. The picture was taken beside the school and church building in Oklahoma. We lived in Washington State so it was taken when we had gone back to visit my maternal grandparents.

As I stare at the picture it reminds me of how things change. Of the four, I am the only one still alive. There were many good years as well as a few challenging years ahead for us, but Jesus was always part of our family and as such, we were more than able to find victory.

None of us know what the future holds for us, but since we know that Jesus holds the future in His hands, we can look forward with confidence.

The future may give us prosperity or poverty, but either way, when we all get to heaven the good things or the bad things will mean nothing in light of the Lord's presence.

WHAT A FUTURE WE HAVE TO LOOK FORWARD TO!

OUR FUTURE! JEREMIAH 29:11-13

# DAY 317 (November 13)

# DIVINE WISDOM!

Jeremiah 33:1-3

While Jeremiah was still confined in the courtyard of the guard, the word of the Lord came to him a second time: 'This is what the Lord says, He who made the earth, the Lord who formed it and established it—the Lord is His name: Call to Me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.

Years ago when I worked in the criminal justice system, I was attending a training session for behavior professionals. At the get-acquainted hour a few of the leaders privately spoke with selected attendees.

We were given some inside information that later in the session revealed how vital it was to know things that others didn't. It was just an exercise, but it gave me a whole new understanding of how important it is to have God's wisdom.

Back when Solomon was chosen to be the second king of Israel, the Lord came to him in a dream and asked him what he desired as a king.

**II CHRONICLES 1:10 IS A REAL EYE OPENER:** _"Give me wisdom and knowledge, that I may lead this people, for who is able to govern this great people of Yours?"_

If God appeared to you and offered you your heart's desire, what would you ask for?

I fear that many would ask for the things of this world rather than true wisdom to be of benefit to others.

Even while locked in a dusty prison, Jeremiah was given wisdom that went far beyond the trinkets of this world and saw the things of eternal value. God does offer wisdom to us—the requirement is that we call out to Him.

# DAY 318 (November 14)

# EQUIPPED!

2 Peter 1:3-4

His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and goodness. Through these He has given us His very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature, having escaped the corruption in the world caused by evil desires.

For years I have carried a small coin purse in my pocket. It is only 2 ¼ inches across and at most, 1 inch high. I try to carry 3 quarters, 2 dimes, 1 nickel, and 4 pennies. WITH THIS CHANGE I CAN ESCAPE HAVING TO USE A DOLLAR AT THE CHECKOUT STAND.

I carry a few other things in my coin purse. There is a house key, a small knife, and a tiny foldout can opener. In fifty plus years of carrying that can opener I have used it once or twice, but the times I needed it, I really needed it!

As a boy I was taught to memorize Scripture verses. When I was young it was relatively easy to memorize. As I got older it became much more difficult. I have shared with many people the secret of writing portions of Scripture on 3X5 cards and carrying them around so that they could refer to them during a free moment.

One college student who was failing his college classes began to use this method during the college summer break. In the fall he raised his grades to a B average.

How are you equipping yourself to be used by the Lord?

Preparation entails a lot of perspiration (the stuff that flows through your pores when you work hard). **I WILL CONTINUE TO CARRY MY COIN PURSE IN MY POCKET, BUT I WILL ALSO CARRY HIS WORD IN MY HEART!**

#  DAY 319 (November 15)

# PERSEVERANCE!

2 Peter 1:5-7

But also for this very reason, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge, to knowledge self-control, to self-control perseverance, to perseverance godliness, to godliness brotherly kindness, and to brotherly kindness love.

It has been a long time, but I still remember some of the games the kids played in our neighborhood. Hide and Seek, Kick the Can, Stick Ball (and many others) until we heard the call from our moms to come in the house. But I cannot remember ever choosing up sides and playing a rousing game of Perseverance.

I especially like the way perseverance is interpreted in Thayer's Lexicon: "The characteristic of a man who is not swerved from his deliberate purpose and his loyalty to faith and piety by even the greatest trials and suffering."

That is powerful! It is far too easy to seek an escape from trial and testing instead of inquiring of the Lord as to His purpose in what we are going through.

**Some seem to feel that Christians should not go through the trials of life. Oh, really?!** **READ WHAT THE APOSTLE PAUL SAYS IN 2 CORINTHIANS 11:24-27:** _Five times he received 39 lashes, three times he was beaten with rods, once he was stoned, three times he was shipwrecked, and spent a day and a night in the ocean. He describes his life as being filled with suffering and pain._

THAT IS TRUE PERSEVERANCE THAT LEADS TO GODLINESS. So what is godliness? Reverence, respect, and piety toward God. It is saying: Not my will, but Your will be done! I want that kind of life!

#  DAY 320 (November 16)

# IF ONLY!

John 9:4-5

As long as it is day, we must do the works of Him who sent me. Night is coming, when no one can work. While I am in the world, I am the light of the world.

It was a Friday morning, just before 11:00, that a tragedy took place in Marysville, Washington. It was in a high school cafeteria when most students were relaxed and enjoying their lunch period.

Suddenly one of the students stood up, drew a handgun and fired at two of his cousins as well as several others before taking his own life. The world was dramatically changed not only for the families of the victims, but for the other students as well.

It was heartbreaking to watch the students as they ran away from the school to gather at a nearby church before being reunited with their families.

Fear etched the faces of parents who wondered if their child might be one of the victims. When parents and children were finally united, the love began to flow as they embraced each other without embarrassment.

If only we would take the time to embrace those we love while we have the time.

None of us know when our time on this earth will end. It is a reminder to insure that we have received Jesus Christ as our personal Savior.

IT IS ALSO A REMINDER TO SHARE OUR LOVE WITH ONE ANOTHER WITH WORDS AND ALSO WITH ACTIONS. HUGS ARE IMPORTANT.

# DAY 321 (November 17)

# BE QUIET!

Psalm 37:5-6

Commit your way to the LORD; trust in Him and He will do this: He will make your righteousness shine like the dawn, the justice of your cause like the noonday sun.

Years ago I heard an story about a young boy that really reminded me of me. My problem as a little boy was that I could not stop talking. My mom said I sometimes drove her crazy. (I find that hard to believe since I am so quiet now. RIGHT!!) Anyway, back to the story.

This young boy was running around and creating such havoc that his mother grabbed him to make him sit on a footstool for five minutes. He immediately got up and she pushed him down again. This routine was repeated until she threatened to paddle him if he got up one more time. He finally got the message and sat down with his arms folded. He looked up at her and said, "I may be sitting down on the outside, but I am standing up on the inside!"

It is easy for us to be so active that we fail to take the time to listen to the Lord. It is far better to wait for Him than to run headlong with our own agenda. It is amazing the things you hear when you are quiet.

_If you find yourself running through your days and weeks like a small tornado, I urge you to sit on God's footstool and listen to His voice. It will most often come through a prayerful reading of His Word._ **JESUS LOVES ME THIS I KNOW, FOR THE Bible TELLS ME SO!**

#  DAY 322 (November 18)

# HIS STRENGTH!

2 Corinthians 12:9-10

My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness. Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.

HAVE YOU EVER MADE A MISTAKE?

I have no idea why, but I recently remembered a blunder I made over 50 years ago. I considered going to work for a bakery that would entail the delivery of baked products. I was riding along with the manager and he had me hold a special-order pie so it would not be damaged in transit.

It was the last delivery before we were to deliver the pie. I opened the door and as I sat down, I felt the horrifying squish of the specially prepared pie. No delivery and no job!

I have realized many times that it is not my strength that counts, but only my willingness to be used.

Several years ago I was having trouble with my Internet connection. When I called my Internet provider about the problem, the first technician did not have the answer and referred me to his manager.

After explaining the problem to the manager, he asked me to send him one of my Daily-E-Votionals to check out. After reading it and identifying my problem, he helped correct the problem...and then asked to be included on my list of subscribers.

DOES GOD WORK?

Yes! I have no idea who that man was or what he was going through. I do know, however, that he received a copy of that message.

THE LORD IS THE ONE WHO DOES THE REAL WORK IN INDIVIDUAL HEARTS.

#  DAY 323 (November 19)

# EXPECTATIONS!

Luke 12:16-18

And He told them this parable: "The ground of a certain rich man yielded an abundant harvest. He thought to himself, 'What shall I do? I have no place to store my crops.' Then he said, 'This is what I'll do. I will tear down my barns and build bigger ones, and there I will store my surplus grain.

A close friend of ours was an insurance agent. Among other types of insurance, he represented a company that insured against storm damage. He once shared with a group of us that one man who had the insurance called him in the middle of a hailstorm to say that his metal patio cover was about to collapse and he should get right over and shovel it off.

RIGHT!

Well sure enough, the hail was heavy enough that the cover finally came down. The man called the insurance agent and said he was not going to pay his deductible part of the policy because he had notified him and he did not come over to remove the hail.

How very much we are like that homeowner. It seems as if we treat the Lord in much the same manner. God has given us His great and precious promises that will ultimately be fulfilled in heaven.

Instead of trusting in the Lord (our divine insurance policy), we pester the Lord to do it for us.

IT JUST DOES NOT WORK THAT WAY.

**LET PROVERBS 3:5-6 BE OUR WATCH WORD AND SONG** _: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight."_

# DAY 324 (November 20)

# TRUE FAITH!

Hebrews 11:1-3

Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. This is what the ancients were commended for. By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God's command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible.

FAITH! WHAT IS IT?

HOW CAN YOU PUT INTO WORDS A CONCEPT LIKE FAITH?

The entire 11th chapter of Hebrews is often called the Faith Chapter (in much the same way that 1 Corinthians 13 is called the Love Chapter in the Bible). When you read the passage given above, it almost defies logic. It is as though it doubles back on itself, and leaves us searching for true understanding.

HOW DO WE EXPLAIN THE MEANING OF THE BEAUTIFUL CONCEPT OF FAITH?

**MOST WOULD IMMEDIATELY BEGIN TO RECITE** **Hebrews 11:1:** _"Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen" (KJV)._

To grasp the concept of faith I think it is useful to use word pictures. We have to visualize that what we have faith in has already become reality.

Imagine that it is 100 degrees outside and you and I are headed to our favorite ice cream store to buy a cone. When do we start to enjoy that luscious cold treat?

That's right, at the time we visualize having that delicious ice cream cone in our hand.

That is the word picture that we need to paint of believing in those things that we have not yet seen. It is based upon the Living Word of God.

GOD SAYS IT AND WE BEGIN TO VISUALIZE GOD BEING FAITHFUL TO WHAT HE HAS PROMISED!

# DAY 325 (November 21)

# ULTIMATE GIFT!

Romans 5:17

For if, by the trespass of the one man, death reigned through that one man, how much more will those who receive God's abundant provision of grace and of the gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man, Jesus Christ!

My wife Joyce once worked as a Legislative Aide for the Washington House of Representatives. ONE DAY ANOTHER AIDE BROUGHT HER GRANDSON TO THE OFFICE SO THAT HER CO-WORKERS COULD MEET HIM.

Joyce wanted to give the little boy a treat and rummaged through her purse (which, by the way, is a bottomless pit!) until she found a small package of peanuts left over from an airline flight.

From that day on, every time the little boy came with his grandmother for a visit, he would shyly slip up to Joyce's desk and ask if she had any more peanuts. On one visit he said he was not feeling well. When Joyce expressed sympathy, he told her that he thought some peanuts would help.

Brenda, our oldest daughter, died when she was thirty-five. Our youngest daughter Lori was facing death with a failed kidney and pancreas. A new kidney was graciously donated by our granddaughter Jenna, and a pancreas from a cadaver.

Lori was given the ultimate gift of life, but she received a far more precious gift when she accepted Jesus Christ into her heart.

We can give and receive gifts in this world, but we need to remember that the ULTIMATE GIFT was provided by Jesus when He died on the cross to give us eternal life!

# DAY 326 (November 22)

# LONG LIFE!

Matthew 6:19-21

Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

Recently I saw a TV commercial in which a woman was walking toward the camera. She boasted that she was in her 50's and had many more years left to live. That may sound good to the company she was representing, but it just isn't always so.

Take time to peruse the obituary column in your local newspaper. You will be amazed at the significant number of deaths of young people. We lost our oldest daughter at age 34, so we are well aware that life is fleeting.

As we read today's Scripture, we find that the things of this world are not certain. In other words, they pass away.

**IN LUKE 16 JESUS TELLS THE PARABLE OF THE RICH MAN AND A BEGGAR NAMED LAZARUS.** Here on earth the rich man seemed to scorn the lowly beggar who survived on the scraps from his table. But things changed when they both died. Lazarus was now experiencing eternal bliss while the former rich man suffered excruciating agony. (And it would never end.)

We never know when the Lord will call us home. We may have many years to live or we may die this week.

THE IMPORTANT THING IS THAT WE MAKE EVERY EFFORT TO STORE UP OUR TREASURES IN HEAVEN.

WHERE IS YOUR HEART?

# DAY 327 (November 23)

# FAMILY!

2 Corinthians 5:16-17

So from now on we regard no one from a worldly point of view. Though we once regarded Christ in this way, we do so no longer. Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come. The old has gone, the new is here!

I think it was back in 1960 that I was a County Juvenile Probation Officer. Three teenage girls had repeatedly been arrested by local authorities and had fled so many times they were known as the "gazelles."

As a last effort to deal with their delinquency, the judge ordered them to be confined in the Youth Training Center several hundred miles away.

The Judge had me transport them, so along with my wife Joyce, we began the trip. The deputies had placed leg restraints on the girls to keep them from escaping. A few miles out of town, however, I stopped and asked the three if we could make the trip as a family rather than treating them as prisoners.

They readily agreed and we had no problem. By the time we arrived at the facility, we all felt like family.

A few days ago I saw an obituary for a man whose name sounded familiar. As I read through the list of survivors, I saw he had a sister with the same name as one of the "gazelles." I was able to find her phone number and called.

Amazingly, she affirmed that she was one of those girls and vividly recalled the trip we had taken such a long time ago. Her life had turned around and she was a changed woman.

Did I say woman?

ON THE TRIP SHE WAS ABOUT 15...SHE IS NOW APPROACHING 70. HOW TIME FLIES!

We all have opportunities to impact others we come in contact with. Never neglect to spend time with young people. Let them know you are there for them.

PERHAPS YOU WILL BE THE ONLY FAMILY THEY WILL EVER HAVE.

# DAY 328 (November 24)

# TRUE TREASURE!S

Matthew 6:19-21

Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

Where is your treasure? Some will say it's the amount of money they have in the bank. Others believe it is their real estate holdings. Still others place their trust in their stock investments. Again I ask you: Where is your treasure?

The phone rang and the voice at the other end notified me that an extremely wealthy and prominent man in our community had died unexpectedly. He had lived in this area since the early days and was considered a founding father of the county.

As I sat and prayed for the members of his family, a smile crept across my face. This man's family had been praying for his salvation for years. The older he got, the less likely it appeared that he would accept Jesus as his Lord.

Less than two weeks before I received the phone call notifying me of his death, the rich man had asked to meet with me at the church. We talked about the reality of eternity and the necessity of being born again.

THAT VERY DAY HE PRAYED AND OPENED HIS HEART TO JESUS. HE GAVE TESTIMONY TO THE FACT AND EVEN SHARED AN INTIMATE LORD'S SUPPER WITH HIS WIFE IN HER ROOM AT A LOCAL NURSING HOME. HE HAD TRADED THE TEMPORARY TREASURES OF THIS WORLD FOR AN ETERNAL HOME IN GLORY.

May I ask you one more time: WHERE IS YOUR TREASURE?!

# DAY 329 (November 25)

# BLESSINGS!

Psalm 103:1-2

" _Bless (affectionately, gratefully praise) the Lord, O my soul, and all that is [deepest] within me, bless His holy name! Bless (affectionately praise) the Lord, O my soul, and forget not [one of] all His benefits"_ (Amplified Bible).

The concept of blessing has come to hold more meaning to me than ever before. WE CAN EITHER BLESS OR CURSE WITH OUR SPOKEN WORDS. In recent articles I have written a lot about actions and how they speak louder than words, but that does not mean we are to be silent —

RATHER WE ARE TO SPEAK BLESSING INTO SITUATIONS AND THEN ACT IN THE MANNER THAT IS CONSISTENT WITH OUR WORDS.

In the wedding ceremonies that I perform, I present a challenge to first the groom and then to the bride: _"Will you listen to (her/his) inmost thoughts and be considerate and tender in your care of (her/him)?"_

That is a very appropriate challenge to a couple embarking on their life as husband and wife — it is also a beneficial challenge for each of us.

  * Listen to one's inmost thoughts!

  * Be considerate! (That means doing to others as you would have them do unto you — the Golden Rule).

  * BE TENDER! Care for each other!

JUST THINK OF THE DIFFERENCE IT WOULD MAKE IF WE ALL PUT THOSE CONCEPTS INTO PRACTICE.

MANY OF US ARE FAMILIAR WITH THE SERMON ON THE MOUNT.

In **Matthew 5-7** , Jesus began His public ministry by teaching the basic principles of a godly lifestyle. His teaching begins with the Beatitudes.

AS YOU READ THEM, NOTICE THAT EACH OF THE BEATITUDES BEGINS WITH "BLESSED ARE YOU...." THE PHRASE SOUNDS GOOD, BUT DO WE REALLY HAVE AN UNDERSTANDING OF ITS MEANING?

Where do you fit into the concept of blessing? I challenge you to begin blessing people in a meaningful manner. As for me, I will continue to sign my letters and correspondence with a blessing.

MY DEEPEST DESIRE IS THAT YOU NOW WILL KNOW WHAT I MEAN WHEN I BLESS YOU!

#  **THE HISTORY OF THANKSGIVING**

In 1621, the Plymouth colonists and Wampanoag Indians shared an autumn harvest feast that is acknowledged today as one of the first Thanksgiving celebrations in the colonies. For more than two centuries, days of thanksgiving were celebrated by individual colonies and states. It wasn't until 1863, in the midst of the Civil War, that President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed a national Thanksgiving Day to be held each November.

THANKSGIVING AT PLYMOUTH

In September 1620, a small ship called the Mayflower left Plymouth, England, carrying 102 passengers—an assortment of religious separatists seeking a new home where they could freely practice their faith and other individuals lured by the promise of prosperity and land ownership in the New World. After a treacherous and uncomfortable crossing that lasted 66 days, they dropped anchor near the tip of Cape Cod, far north of their intended destination at the mouth of the Hudson River. One month later, the Mayflower crossed

Massachusetts Bay, where the Pilgrims, as they are now commonly known, began the work of establishing a village at Plymouth.

DID YOU KNOW?  
LOBSTER, SEAL AND SWANS WERE ON THE PILGRIMS' MENU

Throughout that first brutal winter, most of the colonists remained on board the ship, where they suffered from exposure, scurvy and outbreaks of contagious disease. Only half of the Mayflower's original passengers and crew lived to see their first New England spring. In March, the remaining settlers moved ashore, where they received an astonishing visit from an Abenaki Indian who greeted them in English.

Several days later, he returned with another Native American, Squanto, a member of the Pawtuxet tribe who had been kidnapped by an English sea captain and sold into slavery before escaping to London and returning to his homeland on an exploratory expedition.

Squanto taught the Pilgrims, weakened by malnutrition and illness, how to cultivate corn, extract sap from maple trees, catch fish in the rivers and avoid poisonous plants. He also helped the settlers forge an alliance with the Wampanoag, a local tribe, which would endure for more than 50 years and tragically remains one of the sole examples of harmony between European colonists and Native Americans.

In November 1621, after the Pilgrims' first corn harvest proved successful, Governor William Bradford organized a celebratory feast and invited a group of the fledgling colony's Native American allies, including the Wampanoag chief Massasoit.

Now remembered as American's "first Thanksgiving"—although the Pilgrims themselves may not have used the term at the time—the festival lasted for three days. While no record exists of the historic banquet's exact menu, the Pilgrim chronicler Edward Winslow wrote in his journal that Governor Bradford sent four men on a "fowling" mission in preparation for the event, and that the Wampanoag guests arrived bearing five deer.

Historians have suggested that many of the dishes were likely prepared using traditional Native American spices and cooking methods.

Because the Pilgrims had no oven and the Mayflower's sugar supply had dwindled by the fall of 1621, the meal did not feature pies, cakes or other desserts, which have become a hallmark of contemporary celebrations.

Check out the Thanksgiving by the Numbers infographic for more facts about how the first Thanksgiving compares to modern holiday traditions.

THANKSGIVING BECOMES AN OFFICIAL HOLIDAY

Pilgrims held their second Thanksgiving celebration in 1623 to mark the end of a long drought that had threatened the year's harvest and prompted Governor Bradford to call for a religious fast. Days of fasting and thanksgiving on an annual or occasional basis became common practice in other New England settlements as well.

During the American Revolution, the Continental Congress designated one or more days of thanksgiving a year, and in 1789 George Washington issued the first Thanksgiving proclamation by the national government of the United States; in it, he called upon Americans to express their gratitude for the happy conclusion to the country's war of independence and the successful ratification of the U.S. Constitution. His successors John Adams and James Madison also designated days of thanks during their presidencies.

In 1817, New York became the first of several states to officially adopt an annual Thanksgiving holiday; each celebrated it on a different day, however, and the American South remained largely unfamiliar with the tradition. In 1827, the noted magazine editor and prolific writer Sarah Josepha Hale—author, among countless other things, of the nursery rhyme "Mary Had a Little Lamb"—launched a campaign to establish Thanksgiving as a national holiday.

For 36 years, she published numerous editorials and sent scores of letters to governors, senators, presidents and other politicians. Abraham Lincoln finally heeded her request in 1863, at the height of the Civil War, in a proclamation entreating all Americans to ask God to "commend to his tender care all those who have become widows, orphans, mourners or sufferers in the lamentable civil strife" and to "heal the wounds of the nation."

He scheduled Thanksgiving for the final Thursday in November, and it was celebrated on that day every year until 1939, when Franklin D. Roosevelt moved the holiday up a week in an attempt to spur retail sales during the Great Depression. Roosevelt's plan, known derisively as Franksgiving, was met with passionate opposition, and in 1941 the president reluctantly signed a bill making Thanksgiving the fourth Thursday in November.

THANKSGIVING TRADITIONS

In many American households, the Thanksgiving celebration has lost much of its original religious significance; instead, it now centers on cooking and sharing a bountiful meal with family and friends. Turkey, a Thanksgiving staple so ubiquitous it has become all but synonymous with the holiday, may or may not have been on offer when the Pilgrims hosted the inaugural feast in 1621. Today, however, nearly 90 percent of Americans eat the bird—whether roasted, baked or deep-fried—on Thanksgiving, according to the National Turkey Federation. Other traditional foods include stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce and pumpkin pie.

Volunteering is a common Thanksgiving Day activity, and communities often hold food drives and host free dinners for the less fortunate.

Parades have also become an integral part of the holiday in cities and towns across the United States. Presented by Macy's department store since 1924, New York City's Thanksgiving Day parade is the largest and most famous, attracting some 2 to 3 million spectators along its 2.5-mile route and drawing an enormous television audience. It typically features marching bands, performers, elaborate floats conveying various celebrities and giant balloons shaped like cartoon characters.

Beginning in the mid-20th century and perhaps even earlier, the president of the United States has "pardoned" one or two Thanksgiving turkeys each year, sparing the birds from slaughter and sending them to a farm for retirement. A number of U.S. governors also perform the annual turkey pardoning ritual.

THANKSGIVING CONTROVERSIES

For some scholars, the jury is still out on whether the feast at Plymouth really constituted the first Thanksgiving in the United States.

Indeed, historians have recorded other ceremonies of thanks among European settlers in North America that predate the Pilgrims' celebration. In 1565, for instance, the Spanish explorer Pedro Menéndez de Avilé invited members of the local Timucua tribe to a dinner in St. Augustine, Florida, after holding a mass to thank God for his crew's safe arrival.

On December 4, 1619, when 38 British settlers reached a site known as Berkeley Hundred on the banks of Virginia's James River, they read a proclamation designating the date as "a day of thanksgiving to Almighty God."

Some Native Americans and others take issue with how the Thanksgiving story is presented to the American public, and especially to schoolchildren. In their view, the traditional narrative paints a deceptively sunny portrait of relations between the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag people, masking the long and bloody history of conflict between Native Americans and European settlers that resulted in the deaths of millions.

Since 1970, protesters have gathered on the day designated as Thanksgiving at the top of Cole's Hill, which overlooks Plymouth Rock, to commemorate a "National Day of Mourning." Similar events are held in other parts of the country.

THANKSGIVING'S ANCIENT ORIGINS

Although the American concept of Thanksgiving developed in the colonies of New England, its roots can be traced back to the other side of the Atlantic. Both the Separatists who came over on the Mayflower and the Puritans who arrived soon after brought with them a tradition of providential holidays—days of fasting during difficult or pivotal moments and days of feasting and celebration to thank God in times of plenty.

As an annual celebration of the harvest and its bounty, moreover, Thanksgiving falls under a category of festivals that spans cultures, continents and millennia. In ancient times, the Egyptians, Greeks and Romans feasted and paid tribute to their gods after the fall harvest.

Thanksgiving also bears a resemblance to the ancient Jewish harvest festival of Sukkot. Finally, historians have noted that Native Americans had a rich tradition of commemorating the fall harvest with feasting and merrymaking long before Europeans set foot on their shores.

#

# DAY 330 (November 26)

#  THANKS & THANKSGIVING

Psalm 136:1-4

Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good. His love endures forever. Give thanks to the God of gods. His love endures forever. Give thanks to the Lord of Lords: His love endures forever. To Him who alone does great wonders: His love endures forever.

Here in the United States we always celebrate Thanksgiving on the fourth Thursday of November.

When I was stationed with the U.S. Air Force in St. Anthony, Newfoundland, Canada, I DISCOVERED THAT THE CANADIANS CELEBRATE THEIR THANKSGIVING ON THE SECOND MONDAY IN OCTOBER. That year I celebrated with my Canadian friends in October, and in turn they celebrated with us in November.

As I allow my thoughts to wander through the years of my life, I recognize that there is so much to be thankful for that I scarce know where to begin.

I certainly rejoice in the 62 plus years that I was married to the sweet girl I met back in 1947.

WOW! I AM SO VERY THANKFUL THAT WE WERE ALWAYS THERE FOR EACH OTHER.

Our last few months became more difficult as Joyce slipped deeper into her dementia.

Through it all we were able to express such a sincere love for each other that words cannot express it. We were thankful for a love that saw us through many adversities and was with us to the end.

THAT KIND OF LOVE COMES FROM OUR SAVIOR AND LORD, JESUS CHRIST. WE COMMITTED OUR PERSONAL LIVES TO HIM AND ALSO OUR MARRIAGE. HE WAS ALWAYS THE CENTER OF OUR HOME ACROSS THE YEARS AND WILL BE WITH US TO THE END.

Our thanks to Jesus for giving His life that we may have eternal life that will echo through the ages of time.

# DAY 331 (November 27)

#  PATIENCE—(RIGHT NOW)!

James 5:7-8

"Be patient, then, brothers and sisters, until the Lord's coming. See how the farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop, patiently waiting for the autumn and spring rains. You too, be patient and stand firm, because the Lord's coming is near."

HAVE YOU NOTICED HOW IMPATIENT PEOPLE ARE THESE DAYS?

Drivers become speed demons trying to get in front of other drivers. They accelerate at traffic lights to get through the amber light that has strangely turned red... "I'M SORRY, OFFICER, IT WAS GREEN WHEN I STARTED INTO THE INTERSECTION." YOU GET THE POINT.

We are living in an instant-everything age. We have instant cash machines, instant check-out counters in grocery stores, instant income tax refunds, even instant foods and coffee.

So many things in our modern world are designed to give instant results and yet we still do not have time for God.

The answer lies in the Word of God. Many Bible heroes such as Job, Joseph, David, just to mention a few, did not have instant answers. In many cases it was years before God's plan was revealed.

We need to learn the discipline of patience. With our hectic, fast-paced schedule, we are so busy making things happen that we leave no room for that all important "quiet time" of waiting to see what God wants to teach us or how He wants to use us.

Patience is relaxing in the Lord and letting Him direct our paths!

IT IS TIME TO GET RID OF INSTANT SPIRITUALITY AND OPERATE ON GOD'S TIMING. TRY IT!

# DAY 332 (November 28)

#  **THE TWO WILL BECOME ONE FLESH!**

Ephesians 5:31-33

"For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh. This is a profound mystery—but I am talking about Christ and the church. However, each one of you also must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband."

Joyce and I met as high school freshmen and immediately knew that we belonged together. Of course, it is not reasonable for fifteen-year olds to get married (or even sixteen or seventeen year olds). When we were eighteen and had just graduated from high school, we were married. That was July 10, 1952.

That same year, hundreds of miles away, there was another couple who had only known each other for two weeks when they were married. In both instances our marriages have been blessed by the Lord.

Still other couples were living in societies where their life mates were chosen for them in arranged marriages. I have come to realize that it is not the length of courtship that determines a healthy marriage — it is following the mandate of Scripture and becoming one flesh.

Earlier in Ephesians 5, the husband is instructed to love his wife in the same way that Christ loved the church and gave Himself for her. That means loving sacrificially. Here at the close of the chapter, Paul tells husbands to love their wives as they love themselves.

HUSBANDS, WE ARE THE ONES TO INITIATE PURE LOVE IN THE MARRIAGE. We say we love our wife and we are the one to die for her. That is something for the wife to respect! That is what being one flesh is all about. HOW DO YOU MEASURE UP?

# DAY 333 (November 29)

# FAN THE SPARK!

2 Timothy 1:5-6

"I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also. For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands."

One of the most memorable experiences of my early teen years was a camping trip with our Boy Scout troop. Our scout master, Bob Manley, was a very kind and patient man. He taught us solid Christian values as well practical outdoor skills.

One of the skills Bob taught us was how to start a fire in the wilderness without a match. The first step was to gather dry grass or shredded bark that would catch the spark. The next step was to have dry kindling ready to keep the fire burning as we added larger and larger pieces of wood.

Starting a fire with a flint and steel was fairly easy. It was when we used a spindle and bow on a dry base with a notch that we worked up a sweat. As we stayed at it, the friction would cause the base to begin to glow. We tapped a spark onto shredded bark. In both methods it was essential to carefully fan the spark until flame appeared. Wow!

I WONDER IF OUR SPIRITUAL LIFE IS LIKE THAT SPARK OR JUST SMOLDERING.

In today's Scripture we are reminded that the gift of God is like a flame in our life. It may just be an ember or a flicker, but we are called to fan it into flame. In the woods we blow on the ember to allow it to burst into flames. Paul urges us to allow the Lord to fan into the spark of our spiritual life. Open your heart and mind to the prompting of the Lord. **BURN BRIGHTLY FOR HIM!**

# DAY 334 (November 30)

# HE KNOWS!

Psalm 139:7-10

"Where can I go from Your Spirit? Where can I flee from Your presence? If I go up to the heavens, You are there; if I make my bed in the depths, You are there. If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there Your hand will guide me, Your right hand will hold me fast."

Over the years I have had the privilege of working in a variety of professions. One of the most enjoyable was working as a County Juvenile Officer. I had come into the position directly from serving as a city police officer, so I was well acquainted with the patrol officers who worked the night shift.

I frequently rode around with one of the officers as he made his rounds. When I spotted a juvenile who was part of my caseload, I would note the time, location, and who else was present. Many times the probationer was on a court-ordered curfew.

The next time that individual reported in I asked if he/she was adhering to the curfew. The response was usually in the affirmative. Then I would ask about the day and time I had observed them (the look of astonishment was priceless).

I would then proceed to take the disciplinary action that was merited. It wasn't long before those kids felt like I was everywhere and they had better keep on the straight and narrow.

In today's Scripture we see that the Lord is everywhere and He knows all about us.

There are no time-outs when it comes to living for the Lord. He knows each and everything about us. That is not a bad thing, but a constant reminder that He is always there when we call. Praise the Lord!

# DAY 335 (December 1)

# COMMIT!

Psalm 37:5-6

"Commit your way to the LORD; trust in Him and He will do this: He will make your righteousness shine like the dawn, the justice of your cause like the noonday sun."

Those on the world scene (celebrities, sports figures, politicians, etc.) may seem to be larger than life, but in a very short period of time they fade away and are forgotten. But the people who commit themselves to shape your life by their care and concern will never be forgotten.

When I was in my graduate work, my major professor was constantly hounding me to look up the meaning of words. (I regret that I do not do that as often as I should.)

In today's Scripture I have underlined the word, commit. In the Hebrew it is the word galal. I am sure you are greatly impressed, but before you doze off, let me share its primitive root meaning: TO ROLL.

When we commit ourselves to the Lord, we ROLL all that we have and are and hope to be on Him, knowing that He cares for us. IT IS NOT JUST SOME "HO HUM, I THINK I WILL TRY THIS COMMITMENT THING TO SEE IF IT WORKS." Rolling it onto the Lord, means I leave it with Him and trust Him to handle it.

Years ago I read this wonderful "Statement of Commitment." It was penned by a young African pastor and tacked to a wall in his house.

MY COMMITMENT AS A CHRISTIAN:

  * I'm part of the fellowship of the unashamed.

  * I have stepped over the line.

  * The decision has been made.

  * I'm a disciple of Jesus Christ. I won't look back, let up, slow down, back away, or be still.

  * My past is redeemed, my present makes sense, and my future is secure.

  * I'm finished and done with low living, sight walking, small planning, smooth knees, colorless dreams, tamed visions, mundane talking, cheap living, and dwarfed goals.

  * I no longer need preeminence, prosperity, position, promotions, plaudits, or popularity.

  * I don't have to be right, first, tops, recognized, praised, regarded, or rewarded.

  * I now live by faith, lean on His presence, walk by patience, lift by prayer, and labor by power.

  * My face is set, my gait is fast, my goal is heaven, my road is narrow, my way rough, my companions few, my Guide reliable, my mission clear.

  * I cannot be bought, deluded, or delayed. I will not flinch in the face of sacrifice, hesitate in the presence of the adversary, negotiate at the table of the enemy, or meander in the maze of mediocrity.

  * I won't give up, shut up, let up, until I have stayed up, stored up, prayed up, paid up, and preached up for the cause of Christ. I am a disciple of Jesus.

  * I must go till He comes, give till I drop, preach till all know, and work till He stops me. And when He comes for His own, He will have no problem recognizing me because my banner will be clear!

WOW!!! That is what I call rolling all we are in commitment to the Lord. I endorse and stand in agreement with what this dear brother has committed. I INVITE EACH OF YOU TO DO THE SAME.

# DAY 336 (December 2)

#   FORGET WHAT GOD HAS FORGIVEN!

Philippians 3:12-14

"Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers, I do not consider myself to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus."

When God's Word says my sins are forgiven, does that mean I am free, or does He still hold them against me? We might say that we are set free, but do we actually walk away from our sinful past to have victory in our life?

USING MY EXPERIENCE IN LAW ENFORCEMENT I WANT TO EXAMINE A CERTAIN WOMAN IN THE BIBLE LIKE A POLICE OFFICER MAKING A REPORT:

Name: Rahab.

Address: Jericho.

Occupation: Prostitute.

We know nothing of the background of this woman of the night. In the second chapter of Joshua she is the first person that the Israelites encounter in the land of promise that God has led them to possess.

Two spies had been sent out by Joshua to spy out the land, and especially Jericho. She was the one who saved them. In return she and her family were spared when Jericho fell.

IN HEBREWS 11:31 SHE IS MENTIONED ALONG WITH THE FAITHFUL OF THE AGES.

IN JAMES 2:25 AND 26, SHE IS MENTIONED BY JAMES AS ONE WHO WAS CONSIDERED RIGHTEOUS FOR WHAT SHE DID.

Now, that brings us to the practical aspects of the forgiveness of sins in our lives. When we confess our sins, we can begin to live as new creations.

It is certainly not God who brings your past sins to mind and cause you turmoil. If it is not the Lord, it is coming from the other side, and that means Satan.

Trust God!

#  DAY 337 (December 3)

# OH NO!

Galatians 3:23-24

"Before the coming of this faith, we were held in custody under the law, locked up until the faith that was to come would be revealed. So the law was our guardian until Christ came that we might be justified by faith. "

I MUST CONFESS THAT IT IS HUMOROUS TO FIND YOURSELF IN A POSITION OF AUTHORITY OVER SOMEONE WHO WAS ONCE IN AUTHORITY OVER YOU.

Way back in 1953 I walked into an Air Force Recruiting Station and was met by Sgt. Swift. He told me of the positive features available if I enlisted. I trusted him and signed up.

About ten years later I had received my college degree and a commission in the Air Force. MY FIRST ASSIGNMENT WAS AT THE TRAINING BASE WHERE I HAD ATTENDED OFFICERS TRAINING SCHOOL **. As I looked over the personnel that I now supervised, guess whose name I saw. YES! SGT. SWIFT!**

When we saw each other his first response was, "OH NO!" We had a good laugh about how things had changed and he was glad he had been honest with me in 1953.

Another encounter was while working on an assignment for the Idaho State Law Enforcement Administration in the northern part of the State.

On my return trip I was stopped by an officer who wrote out a ticket. I am sure he did so because he thought I would not be able to appear in court.

Unfortunately for him, I had another meeting scheduled in that county the following week. THE JUDGE NOT ONLY DISMISSED THE TICKET, BUT CHIDED THE OFFICER FOR NEGLIGENCE.

A few years later I was teaching a Criminal Justice class at Boise State and you guessed it... that officer was now my student!

HIS FIRST RESPONSE WAS, "OH NO!" (I WAS KIND TO HIM, BUT HAD HIM SQUIRMING FOR A MOMENT.)

We will all appear before the Judge of the universe.

Every single thought or deed will be revealed. I am sure Satan will try to bring up every sinful thing in our past, but when we have confessed our sins and received Jesus into our hearts, we need not fear. Jesus was born in Bethlehem to pay the price for our sins. He has done what we could never do!

PRAISE THE LORD!

# DAY 338 (December 4)

# KELLY'S CAFE!

Hebrews 13:6-8

"So we say with confidence, 'The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?' Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever."

Back when I was eight or nine, my parents owned Kelly's, a café in Camas, Washington. I have many fond memories of time spent in and around that place. Sometimes I would "help" the dishwasher, but in reality was probably more hindrance than help.

Years after we had moved away from Camas, I always wanted to drive by and see if Kelly's was still open. I told Joyce about it so many times I'm sure she was tired of hearing my stories.

A day finally came when I took a trip with Joyce down the memory lane of my childhood. I was able to locate our old house and our old church where I had given my heart to the Lord, but my heart was sad when we saw the building where Kelly's had once flourished. It was now an insurance agency. Rats!

There have been other instances where we have tried to find some favored spot only to discover it changed and entirely different from the way we remembered. It is disappointing to have the buildings of our past change, but it is heart breaking to discover that people have changed for the worse.

In today's Scripture we are urged to stay the course and walk in such a way that our life will be an example to others.

JESUS IS ALWAYS THE SAME AND THAT IS THE ROCK UPON WHICH WE ARE TO BUILD OUR LIFE.

#  DAY 339 (December 5)

# A GENTLE MAN!

2 Timothy 2:24-26

"And the Lord's servant must not quarrel; instead he must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful. Those who oppose him he must gently instruct, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading to a knowledge of the truth, and that they will come to their senses and escape from the trap of the devil, who has taken them captive to do his will."

We live in a day where pride and arrogance appear to be acceptable behavior. In some venues it takes the form of "trash talking" where challengers belittle opponents while bragging about what they are going to do. I just happen to think that actions speak louder than words.

Many years ago I was meeting with the two daughters of a 92-year-old man whose funeral service I would be conducting. As they reminisced about their dad, one of them commented that he was a gentleman. The other daughter immediately agreed and then added that he was not only a gentleman, he was a GENTLE MAN.

WOW! TO ME THAT IS POWERFUL STUFF. As I have reflected on the difference, I can see that a person can be a gentleman (or gentlewoman) without being GENTLE. One has the idea of position, while the other indicates behavior.

Paul was writing to his son in the faith, Timothy, and encouraging him to behave in a gentle manner regardless of what others did or said.

There are many qualities that a servant of the MOST HIGH GOD may demonstrate, BUT THE ONE I STRIVE TO ACHIEVE IS TO BE GENTLE.

I MAY NOT ALWAYS ACHIEVE MY GOAL, BUT I AM AIMING FOR IT.

# DAY 340 (December 6)

# GOD'S PROMISE!

Proverbs 3:5-6

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths."

There was once a father and son who had taken a hike that took them far from camp. The son was excited about this new world he had heard about and was now experiencing.

Repeatedly, his father cautioned him to not wander too far away.

Night was rapidly approaching and the son suddenly realized that he was in danger. He had crossed over a narrow path that was carved into a very steep and deep cliff. He had been so engrossed in the beauty and delight of the moment that he failed to notice that night and danger was advancing...until it was too late.

At long last the son swallowed his pride and called out to his father for help. To his surprise, his father was very near. He had been watching his son and waiting for the moment when he knew he could not go further on his own. He told his son to follow in his exact steps. The path that seemed so threatening to the son had in fact been blazed by the father many years earlier. By following his father the boy was saved.

NOW READ PROVERBS 3:5-6 ONCE AGAIN

Can you see how very much we are like the son in the story? Anytime we feel our feet slipping or the darkness closing in on us, all we need to do is cry out to the Lord. He built the path to provide for our salvation! It requires trusting Him with all our heart and acknowledging Him in all our ways.

THE PROMISE HE GIVES IS THAT HE WILL DIRECT OUR PATHS. PRAISE THE LORD!

# DAY 341 (December 7)

#  **PRAYER FOR SUFFERING SAINTS!"**

John 17:14-17

"I have given them Your word; and the world has hated them because they are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. I do not pray that You should take them out of the world, but that You should keep them from the evil one. They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth."

Have you ever heard someone praying for you? They spoke your name but it was directed to the throne of grace in your behalf. I WISH EVERYONE COULD EXPERIENCE THE AWESOME POWER OF SUCH A PRAYER.

JESUS PRAYED FOR HIS DISCIPLES AND THAT INCLUDES YOU AND ME.

If you want to hear his prayer for you, please turn to john 17 and, beginning with verse 6, read through the remainder of the chapter; realize as you read the words of this precious prayer that it includes you.

WHAT A DIFFERENCE IT SHOULD MAKE IN YOUR LIFE.

God does not call us to have a persecution complex. There are some people who do questionable things and when others react adversely to that behavior, they will cry out that they are being persecuted. That is ridiculous!

Questionable behavior can never be justified as being persecuted for Jesus. Such erroneous thinking detracts from those who are truly experiencing persecution for the sake of Christ.

As we pray for those saints of God that are truly experiencing persecution, it needs to be prayer for their faith to remain strong and true.

My own personal prayer is that if I am ever to experience persecution that my eyes will be fixed on Jesus. Should He deliver me, praise the Lord!

If He calls me home to glory, PRAISE THE LORD! I just want to faithful either way.

#  DAY 342 (December 8)

# SPIRITUAL BABIES!

1 PETER 2:2-3

"Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation, now that you have tasted that the Lord is good."

**1 CORINTHIANS 3:1-2:** _"Brothers, I could not address you as spiritual but as worldly – mere infants (babes) in Christ. I gave you milk not solid food, for you were not ready for it. Indeed, you are still not ready."_

I love babies and it absolutely crushes me to think of all the millions and millions of infants killed by abortion. It has been a long time, but I can still remember when our children were babies — they always seemed to find a place to sleep on my chest. They loved it and I loved it! I CANNOT EVEN BEGIN TO COUNT THE OTHER BABIES WHO AT ONE TIME OR ANOTHER SEEMED TO FIND COMFORT ON MY WELL-PADDED CHEST.

Now, let us move from the physical realm to the spiritual realm.

Today's Scriptures indicate that both Peter and Paul were concerned about the lack of spiritual growth in some believers who had been Christians long enough that they should be digging into the "meat" of the Word. INSTEAD, THEY HAD TO HAVE SOMEONE TO TEACH THEM, FEED THEM "MILK" — BUT THEY STILL DID NOT GROW.

Many people attend church weekly (some much less than that) and seem to feel that they are getting all of the spiritual nourishment they need.

**LISTEN! There is no way that I, or any other minister of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, can give you enough spiritual food in one or two sermons to get you through the week.**

I have seen the saying many times: A WEEK WITHOUT CHURCH ATTENDANCE MAKES ONE WEAK."

What spiritual food are you taking into your life? Are you growing or still in spiritual diapers?

HISTORY OF HANUKKAH  
The events that inspired the Hanukkah holiday took place during a particularly turbulent phase of Jewish history. Around 200 B.C., Judea—also known as the Land of Israel—came under the control of Antiochus III, the Seleucid king of Syria, who allowed the Jews who lived there to continue practicing their religion. His son, Antiochus IV Epiphanes, proved less benevolent: Ancient sources recount that he outlawed the Jewish religion and ordered the Jews to worship Greek gods. In 168 B.C., his soldiers descended upon Jerusalem, massacring thousands of people and desecrating the city's holy Second Temple by erecting an altar to Zeus and sacrificing pigs within its sacred walls.

DID YOU KNOW?  
The story of Hanukkah does not appear in the Torah because the events that inspired the holiday occurred after it was written. It is, however, mentioned in the New Testament, in which Jesus attends a "Feast of Dedication."

Led by the Jewish priest Mattathias and his five sons, a large-scale rebellion broke out against Antiochus and the Seleucid monarchy. When Matthathias died in 166 B.C., his son Judah, known as Judah Maccabee ("the Hammer"), took the helm; within two years the Jews had successfully driven the Syrians out of Jerusalem, relying largely on guerilla warfare tactics. Judah called on his followers to cleanse the Second Temple, rebuild its altar and light its menorah—the gold candelabrum whose seven branches represented knowledge and creation and were meant to be kept burning every night.

THE HANUKKAH "MIRACLE"  
According to the Talmud, one of Judaism's most central texts, Judah Maccabee and the other Jews who took part in the rededication of the Second Temple witnessed what they believed to be a miracle. Even though there was only enough untainted olive oil to keep the menorah's candles burning for a single day, the flames continued flickering for eight nights, leaving them time to find a fresh supply. This wondrous event inspired the Jewish sages to proclaim a yearly eight-day festival. (The first Book of the Maccabees tells another version of the story, describing an eight-day celebration that followed the rededication but making no reference to the miracle of the oil.)

OTHER INTERPRETATIONS OF THE HANUKKAH STORY  
Some modern historians offer a radically different interpretation of the Hanukkah tale. In their view, Jerusalem under Antiochus IV had erupted into civil war between two camps of Jews: those who had assimilated into the dominant culture that surrounded them, adopting Greek and Syrian customs; and those who were determined to impose Jewish laws and traditions, even if by force. The traditionalists won out in the end, with the Hasmonean dynasty—led by Judah Maccabee's brother and his descendants—wresting control of the Land of Israel from the Seleucids and maintaining an independent Jewish kingdom for more than a century.

Jewish scholars have also suggested that the first Hanukkah may have been a belated celebration of Sukkot, which the Jews had not had the chance to observe during the Maccabean Revolt. One of the Jewish religion's most important holidays, Sukkot consists of seven days of feasting, prayer and festivities.

HANUKKAH TRADITIONS  
The Hanukkah celebration revolves around the kindling of a nine-branched menorah, known in Hebrew as the hanukiah. On each of the holiday's eight nights, another candle is added to the menorah after sundown; the ninth candle, called the shamash ("helper"), is used to light the others. Jews typically recite blessings during this ritual and display the menorah prominently in a window as a reminder to others of the miracle that inspired the holiday.

In another allusion to the Hanukkah miracle, traditional Hanukkah foods are fried in oil. Potato pancakes (known as latkes) and jam-filled donuts (sufganiyot) are particularly popular in many Jewish households. Other Hanukkah customs include playing with four-sided spinning tops called dreidels and exchanging gifts. In recent decades, particularly in North America, Hanukkah has exploded into a major commercial phenomenon, largely because it falls near or overlaps with Christmas. From a religious perspective, however, it remains a relatively minor holiday that places no restrictions on working, attending school or other activities.

# DAY 343 (December 9)

# AUTHORITY!

Luke 7:8: "For I also am a man placed under authority, having soldiers under me. And I say to one, 'Go,' and he goes; and to another, 'Come,' and he comes; and to my servant, 'Do this,' and he does it."

Throughout my working life I have served in positions of authority. Watching reality police TV programs, we see lawbreakers blaming the officers who arrest them instead of admitting they are in the wrong and submitting to authority.

Serving as a police officer myself, I met people who became agitated and belligerent when they were confronted. It was evident that they were guilty of some type of violation, but they refused to acknowledge responsibility for their actions.

In each of my positions of authority I came under the authority of someone in a position above mine. Authority is often assumed as a result of being assigned to the position rather than being based entirely upon merit. Each authority figure has someone who is in authority over them and up the chain of command it progresses.

Societies experience chaos and disintegration when people demand to do their own thing without regard to the consequences.

More and more, we observe people in this old sin-sick world that detest any form of authority. They rebel and protest in order to reject the rules of the society of which they are a part. The rejection of authority is anarchy. That is not good!

THE FINAL AUTHORITY IS GOD!

_Every human authority will one day stand facing the Judge of all the earth._ Our failure to recognize and submit to His authority has eternal consequences. I for one do not want to have my own way when it comes to the will of God. **I CHOOSE TO ALLOW HIM TO BE MY FINAL AUTHORITY.**

# DAY 344 (December 10)

# IN THE MIDDLE!

Psalm 118:7-9

"The Lord is with me; He is my helper. I look in triumph on my enemies. It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in humans. It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in princes."

FROM TIME TO TIME SOMEONE WILL ASK ME HOW WE CAN KNOW THE BIBLE IS THE TRUE WORD OF GOD? Many hundreds of prophecies have been fulfilled and that alone should prove the truth. That being said, however, belief is a choice. It is a matter of faith. _We can either choose to believe, or we can lean on the shallow thinking of unbelievers who say there is no God. One second after death there will be no unbelievers._ But failure to accept Christ will cost them eternal suffering and loss. Sad will be their bitter wail!

Some time ago I received an e-mail that should cause doubters to reconsider the truth of the Bible. (This is just one of hundreds). It has to do with the middle of the Bible. The shortest chapter in the Bible is Psalm 117. The longest chapter is Psalm 119.

CAN YOU GUESS THE MIDDLE CHAPTER IN THE BIBLE? Amazingly, it is psalm 118. But that is just the beginning. There are 594 chapters before psalm 118 and 594 chapters after... **for a total of 1,188 chapters in the bible (remember that number).**

**Can you guess the middle verse in the Bible? It is Psalm 118:8! I have underlined it above:** **"IT IS BETTER TO TAKE REFUGE IN THE LORD THAN TO TRUST IN HUMANS."**

In the storms of life and in the expectation of the eternity awaiting us, I find it the most comforting to place my trust in the Lord.

**REGARDLESS OF WHAT OTHERS DO AROUND ME, I CHOOSE TO TAKE MY REFUGE IN THE LORD**.

# DAY 345 (December 11)

# UNDERWEAR!

Mark 7:21-23

"For from within, out of a person's heart, come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, greed, wickedness, deceit, lustful desires, envy, slander, pride, and foolishness. All these vile things come from within; they are what defile you."

This is a somewhat delicate subject, but I was recently thinking of some of the things my mother said to me. From what I hear, there are others of you who heard this same admonition from your own mother: "Be sure to always wear clean underwear because you may end up in the hospital and what would they think?!"

From my experience in the emergency wards, they often just cut off all of the garments of a patient and have no time to inspect whether the underwear is clean or not. (I think it is still a good idea to be prepared!)

There is a spiritual parallel to being prepared with those things not obvious to the eyes of people around us. It is only as we peel off the façade of our outward appearance that the reality of who we are is revealed. Jesus reveals in this passage that all of the evil things imaginable are from within. It is these things which defile us in the sight of God.

**We may walk and talk as holy men and women of God. The real question is what lies beneath? Do we have the clean underwear that can only come by a life lived in submission to the will of God and a readiness to confess our sins in order for Him to forgive us and cleanse us**.

REMEMBER TO PUT ON CLEAN UNDERWEAR!

# DAY 346 (December 12)

# **PERSECUTION!**

Matthew 5:10-12

"Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake. Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you."

Last week a dear friend shared a message on YouTube.com delivered to the United Nations by Messianic Rabbi Jonathan Cahn. He challenged that august body to the horrible persecution of Christians all over the globe. YOU CAN WATCH THIS 13-MINUTE SPEECH BY GOING TO: <https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=CzQjFqR4Zzsen>

It seems impossible to comprehend that men, women, and even children are being slaughtered because they are Christians and refuse to renounce their faith and allegiance to Jesus Christ as their personal Savior. I was proud to be one of God's family when I heard of four children who chose to be beheaded rather than to deny the One who had died to give them eternal life.

Even in so-called Christian nations we have felt the tide of oppression coming our way. We have not yet felt the death sentence hanging over our head, but in many ways there has been opposition.

I would like to spend a few days in the Daily-E-Votional considering how we as believers should react to the persecution that is approaching at an alarming rate. I want to encourage us with the words of Jesus in **Luke 21:28:** _"Now when these things begin to happen, look up and lift up your heads, because your redemption draws near."_

# DAY 347 (December 13)

# JOY IS A CHOICE!

Luke 6:20-23

"Looking at His disciples, He said: 'Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God. Blessed are you who hunger now, for you will be satisfied. Blessed are you who weep now, for you will laugh. Blessed are you when men hate you, when men exclude you and insult you and reject your name as evil, because of the Son of Man. Rejoice in that day and leap for joy, because great is your reward in heaven. For that is how their fathers treated the prophets."

WHEN I MEET AND GREET A FRIEND, AFTER THE INITIAL "HELLO" I OFTEN ASK, "HOW ARE YOU DOING?"

The response from some is, "PRETTY GOOD UNDER THE CIRCUMSTANCES!" To which I am prone to reply, "WHAT ARE YOU DOING UNDER THERE?"

I am sure that you have heard that old cliché many times. I have used it enough that it almost feels like my own, but it was used long ago by someone cleverer than I.

The sad reality is that we are all too often controlled by our circumstances.

When that is the case, we leave little room for the Lord to bring joy and delight into our life. You heard me right: I said that the Lord wants to bring joy and delight into our lives.

We often behave like judges at an Olympic contest, holding a stack of scorecards from 0 to 10 on our lap.

WHEN SOME LIFE-EVENT OCCURS,

  * WE WATCH...

  * WONDER...

  * WAIVER...

  * WAIT...

AND THEN FINALLY HOLD UP A SCORE CARD JUDGING WHETHER IT IS GOOD OR BAD AND TO WHAT DEGREE. IF IT IS GOOD WE HAVE JOY; IF IT IS BAD WE ARE SAD.

Such actions on our part effectively allow the "THINGS OF LIFE" to control our joy. It is very much like the old comedy line about being under the circumstances.

_We have the mistaken notion that joy is the result of only good things coming into our lives_.

That is not what we find in this and many other scriptures. Yes, we do rejoice when the blessings of the Lord are poured out upon us, but we can also have joy and rejoicing even when things go wrong.

THAT IS EXACTLY WHAT JESUS IS TEACHING HERE IN THE SERMON ON THE MOUNT. WE ARE TO BE JOYFUL EVEN WHEN WE ARE CALLED UPON TO SUFFER FOR THE SAKE OF CHRIST. That is true even when it seems as if the whole world is against us. If we succumb to the urge to have a pity party, we will violate the commands of our Lord, and also will miss His blessing. The result will be bitterness and despair with no joy.

Unbelievers know when we are under fire for our spiritual convictions. They will not be impressed or drawn to faith in Christ by our laments about how much we are enduring. NO!

The thing that will impress them will be our shouts of joy that we have been counted worthy to go through times of suffering and abuse with victory!

To discover this joy, I think it is important to study the biblical aspect of joy. Please go into the concordance in the back of your study Bible and make a list of all of the references to the word "JOY," look them up and study them.

But keep in mind that simply knowing more about joy will not make us joyful. It is our obedience to the Lord that makes the joy a reality.

Since Jesus says we are to find joy even when we are being persecuted for righteousness that then becomes our reason for joy.

I WANT TO LEAVE YOU TODAY WITH A CHALLENGE.

Pray and ask the Lord to give you the strength to proclaim joy in the face of opposition and see what happens. I can tell you right now that you will feel peace and contentment, even in the midst of your storm. YOU WILL FIND YOUR JOY!

# DAY 348 (December 14)

# IF!

Proverbs 3:5-8

"Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight. Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD and shun evil. This will bring health to your body and nourishment to your bones."

IF. Such a tiny little word, yet one which holds so much meaning.

It is a conditional word that often implies being a little reluctant to respond until certain conditions are met. I will do such and so "IF" you meet my expectations, demands, or in some way make me feel comfortable.

It is a sad commentary that we often bargain with God by attaching an "if" to our obedience. In doing so, we place ourselves in a position of control. Instead of saying, "Nevertheless, not my will, but Thine be done," as Jesus prayed in the garden, but by telling God what to do and when to do it.

Someone forwarded the following inspirational piece. It explains a little of the reason for God's actions and reveals why we do not always see His hand at work in our life.

GOD SAID...

  * If you never felt pain, then how would you know that I'm a Healer?

  * If you never went through difficulties, how would you know that I'm a Deliverer?

  * If you never had a trial, how could you call yourself an overcomer?

  * If you never felt sadness, how would you know that I'm a Comforter?

  * If you never made a mistake, how would you know that I'm forgiving?

  * If you knew it all, how would you know that I will answer your questions?

  * If you were never in trouble, how would you know that I will come to your rescue?

  * If you never were broken, then how would you know that I can make you whole?

  * If you never had a problem, how would you know that I can solve them?

  * If you never had any suffering, then how would you know what Jesus went through?

  * If you never went through the fire, then how would you become pure?

  * If I gave you all things, how would you appreciate them?

  * If I never corrected you, how would you know that I love you?

  * If you had all power, then how would you learn to depend on Me?

  * If your life was perfect, then what would you need Me for?

THANK YOU, GOD! HELP ME TO REMEMBER!

# DAY 349 (December 15)

#   A MESSAGE FROM THE STARS!

Psalm 19:1-4

"The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of His hands. Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they display knowledge. There is no speech or language where their voice is not heard. Their voice goes out into all the earth, their words to the ends of the world."

What does that mean? So many times we read Scripture and fail to grasp that the God who has made all things is trying to tell us something special. Isaiah 40:26 tells us the Lord knows each of the stars by name. So what is so great about that? Let me tell you just how great that is.

It has been estimated that there are some 100,000 million stars in our galaxy alone – not even considering other galaxies. If we were to count each of those stars, working day and night, no breaks of any kind, it would take some 2,500 years. Yet God knows them each by name.

I am indebted to the ministry of Chuck Missler. In his book "Cosmic Codes," pages 201-202, he relates the significance of the Zodiac.

BEFORE THE TWELVE STATIONS OF THE ZODIAC WERE PERVERTED BY ASTROLOGERS, THEY WERE EACH ASSIGNED TO ONE OF THE TWELVE TRIBES OF ISRAEL.

Chuck points out the false notion that ancient astronomers could see figures in these constellations. There is no way the groupings look like the objects they are named.

THE STAR GROUPINGS, HOWEVER, DO SEND A POWERFUL MESSAGE.

The zodiac tells the story of the Messiah. It starts in Virgo with the virgin birth and ends in Leo (He is the Lion from the tribe of Judah). Because the stars appear to move during the month, they create a mini movie or story.

One of those twelve signs is the constellation Virgo (virgin). The constellation is said to depict a young woman with a branch in her right hand and a sheaf of grain in her left. **I URGE YOU TO PURCHASE CHUCK'S BOOK AND GO INTO A MUCH MORE IN-DEPTH STUDY THAN I WILL DO HERE.**

TO GREATLY SIMPLIFY THINGS, LET ME JUST GIVE YOU SOME OF THE STARS IN THE CONSTELLATION VIRGO, ALONG WITH THEIR HISTORICAL MEANING:

  * Spica = "Corn of Wheat;" in Hebrew this also is given the meaning "Seed of Woman."

  * Tsemeck = "The Branch." (The title of the Messiah).

  * Zavijaveh = "The Gloriously Beautiful" or "Who Shall Have Dominion."

  * Coma = "The Desired One."

  * Centaurus = "The Despised One." In Egyptian, it is "The Desired Son" and is usually depicted as a woman with an infant. (What is a woman with an infant doing in the sign of the virgin?) It is of interest that there is a double nature embedded in the idea of the sin offering of the despised one and at the same time being a ruling King.

Bootes = "The Coming One." Bootes also includes the principal stars; Arcturus (He cometh); AlKaturopos (the branch that is trodden under foot); Mirac (preserver, guarding); Muphride (he who separates); and Nekkar (the Pierced One).

CONSIDERING THIS, DOES GOD SPEAK MESSAGES TO US FROM THE STARS? THE ANSWER IS A RESOUNDING "YES!"

This one constellation (Virgo) speaks volumes concerning the office and work of our Savior Jesus Christ.

Chuck Missler adds that the sign of Virgo is associated with the tribe of Zebulun where Nazareth is located. Jesus was often referred to as "The Nazarene." A Nazarite was also a separated one.

As we reflect on the incredible order and design of God's universe, we marvel once again at the idea that He loved us so much that Jesus Christ came to provide our salvation.

In the darkness of our world we may feel overwhelmed. With all of the sin and degradation we may feel there is no hope.

It may be a setting sun, but when the stars begin to appear in the sky, it is "God's Twilight Zone!"

# DAY 350 (December 16)

#   FAITH IS THE REAL MIRACLE!

Psalm 139:1-4

"O LORD, You have searched me and You know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; You perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and my lying down; You are familiar with all my ways. Before a word is on my tongue You know it completely, O LORD."

Life is a constantly changing scene with countless variables. Over the years I have been become more aware that God works in many unexpected ways.

A local funeral director called on me to conduct a service for someone I did not know. I thanked the Lord for this cherished ministry as it would once again allow me to minister to a family I had never met and bring the message of hope to the grieving.

I recall once hearing Bill Gothard share at an Institute IN BASIC LIFE PRINCIPLES that one way you can discern your spiritual gift is if you can perform the task without growing weary. I WAS THINKING ABOUT THAT AS I DROVE TO MEET THE DECEASED'S FAMILY. I FELT THE STRENGTH OF THE LORD FLOW THROUGH ME.

The other aspect that I had been thinking about was the confirmation of the Holy Spirit. WHAT DO I MEAN BY THAT? It is the unexpected circumstances which almost explode with irony.

It was a delight to the grieving family to learn that my family had originated in the Texas/Oklahoma panhandle region.

Before long, the five of us were laughing and recalling many things about that area. It also made the funeral service much more personal. I felt as if I could picture this man I had never met, but for whom I would be conducting a funeral service.

As we discussed the illness which had caused his death, I shared about the passing of our own dear daughter in 1991.

I shared how Brenda had been healed many times, but that healing is always temporary; and then I made a statement that shocked even me.

I said that healing is not the real miracle—faith is the real miracle. It was as if I had slapped the man's daughter in the face.

She exclaimed, "That is the most fantastic thing!" Her enthusiastic reaction surprised me. She went on to explain that she had heard the same phrase used in the past few days and was moved by it. Now I had spoken the same words without planning what I was going to say.

I SINCERELY BELIEVE THAT THERE ARE NO COINCIDENCES WHERE THE BELIEVER IN JESUS CHRIST IS CONCERNED.

The Lord knows our life intimately. He knows how we can be used to touch others. How do we do that? It is not us, but it is the Holy Spirit working through us to say the right thing at the right time.

I have experienced many of these divinely directed encounters.

As I think back, they have all occurred when I was actively involved in deep study of God's Word. I love to study the Word, but I also like to investigate the circumstances surrounding the passage I am studying. Having done that, I try to apply it to my own life or to the lives of others.

The other thing that strikes me is that we must avoid contrivance. It is not necessary or advisable to plot and plan and try to make it appear inspired.

We have been overexposed to phony spirituality. People need to see the authentic and dynamic Word lived out in the lives of His people.

HERE IS MY SUGGESTION FOR US ALL: COVENANT WITH GOD (COVENANTS ARE TO THE DEATH) TO SPEND QUALITY TIME IN STUDY, MEDITATION, AND PRAYER.

Be natural, talk freely, and give yourself without reservation to the one you are talking with. You may not receive the feedback as I mentioned, but you will bless others!

# DAY 351 (December 17)

#   LOOKING PAST SPILLED MILK!

I Timothy 5:1-3

"Do not rebuke an older man harshly, but exhort him as if he were your father. Treat younger men as brothers, older women as mothers, and younger women as sisters, with absolute purity. Give proper recognition to those widows who are really in need."

Isn't it hard to be around people who, rather than being thankful, are ungrateful and perhaps even presumptuous? Such people usually complain about anything and everything and are never satisfied. **THEY APPEAR TO BE GREEDY AND ACT AS IF THEY DESERVE MORE THAN THEY ARE GIVEN — "TAKERS" INSTEAD OF "GIVERS."**

We need to develop an attitude of thankfulness for all things and in all things. We should keep our eyes peeled for the opportunity to demonstrate God's love in every situation.

In Philippians 4:11, the Apostle Paul could rejoice in his adversity since he knew that the Lord would work all things for His divine purposes.

"I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances."

Someone forwarded a story called "The Wooden Bowl." It clearly demonstrates how easily we replace the value of relationships with the convenience of our lives.

WOODEN BOWL

(Based on a story by Leo Tolstoy)

" **A frail old man went to live with his son, daughter-in-law, and four-year-old grandson. The old man's hands trembled, his eyesight was blurred, and his step faltered. The family ate together at the table. But the elderly grandfather's shaky hands and failing sight made eating difficult. Peas rolled off his spoon onto the floor. When he grasped the glass, milk spilled on the tablecloth.**

" **The son and daughter-in-law became irritated with the mess. 'We must do something about Grandfather,' said the son. 'I've had enough of his spilled milk, noisy eating, and food on the floor!!'**

" **So the husband and wife set a small table in the corner. Their grandfather ate alone while the rest of the family enjoyed dinner.**

Since Grandfather had broken a dish or two, his food was served in a wooden bowl. When the family glanced in Grandfather's direction, sometimes they saw a tear in his eye as he sat alone. Still, the only words the couple had for him were sharp admonitions when he dropped a fork or spilled food.

" **The four-year-old watched it all in silence. Then, one evening before supper, the father noticed his son playing with wood scraps on the floor.**

He asked the child sweetly, 'What are you making?'

Just as sweetly, the boy responded, 'Oh, I am making a little bowl for you and Mama to eat your food in when I grow up.' The four-year-old smiled and went back to work.

" **The words so struck the parents that they were speechless. No word was spoken but tears streamed down their cheeks and both knew what must be done.**

That evening the husband took Grandfather's hand and gently led him back to the family table.

For the remainder of his days he ate every meal with the family. And for some reason, neither husband nor wife seemed to care any longer when a fork was dropped, milk spilled, or the tablecloth soiled."

Children are remarkably perceptive. Their eyes ever observe, their ears ever listen, and their minds ever process the messages they absorb.

Remember the saying "Children are like sponges, they absorb everything and anything that is put in front of them."

I PRAY THAT EACH OF US WILL BE MORE GIVING AND FORGIVING.

Make a commitment to be thankful for people and situations around us. Rather than finding fault, let's find meaning and purpose. Rather than finding affronts, let's find a fountain of divine provision.

# DAY 352 (December 18)

# OUR OUTLOOK!

Philippians 4:12-13: "I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength."

Back in the dark ages (aka the 1960's), I was stationed with the United States Air Force in St. Anthony, Newfoundland, Canada. Our support base was Goose Bay, Labrador. The access between the two was via a commercial airline that used outdated DC-3 planes. These two-engine aircraft were used for many, many years. They were first built back in 1935 and used around the world for over 70 years. (Sorry! I can easily get carried away about the DC-3 that was commonly called "Gooney Bird.")

It was always enjoyable for me to make the flights between St. Anthony and Goose Bay. The old plane seemed to rock along and sway with the winds that would jolt other aircraft. Since we would fly at just a few thousand feet, I could look outside the window and see boats in the turbulent seas below. I was glad to be flying!

On one flight we had a passenger who was a basket case. Those soft swings and sways that I enjoyed so much were a terror to this man. I tried to reassure him, but he was certain that we would be crashing into the sea at any moment. I gave up trying to comfort him and went back to enjoying the flight. (We made it safe and sound!)

Last week I read two messages that were distributed to a prayer group. One person requested prayer because he was not able to sleep and it was a major concern. Within the hour I read another message from someone who was so thrilled and excited by God's presence that they couldn't sleep! ONE WAS DISTURBED ABOUT NOT BEING ABLE TO SLEEP AND FELT DEPRIVED. THE OTHER PERSON WHO WAS SO EXCITED HE COULDN'T SLEEP, FELT EXHILARATED.

Several years ago I woke up extremely early. At first I was agitated and tried to roll over and slip back into sleep. It was then that I was prompted to get up and pray. I PICKED UP MY BIBLE AND BEGAN TO READ AND PRAY AS THE SPIRIT LED. IT WAS THE MOST REFRESHING TIME I COULD IMAGINE―FAR BETTER THAN SLEEPING.

That encounter changed my outlook on sleep. It took me back to the words of my spiritual father, _Dr. John Hall: "An hour's sleep in the Spirit is better than a whole night's sleep in the flesh!"_ As a Family Practice physician, he often was only able to catch short periods of sleep. He would pray for sleep in the Spirit before he closed his eyes and the Lord would grant his request.

THIS "OUTLOOK" FOR THE BELIEVER SHOULD NOT BE RESTRICTED TO SLEEP. If we want to experience the power of God in our life, we need to rest in Him. That means we place our trust in Him rather than in our own situation. He knows what we need and when we need it.

The way to find true rest in the Lord is to meditate on ROMANS 8:28: "AND WE KNOW THAT IN ALL THINGS GOD WORKS FOR THE GOOD OF THOSE WHO LOVE HIM, WHO HAVE BEEN CALLED ACCORDING TO HIS PURPOSE."

**If we truly believe this we will live in eager anticipation of what is coming next―** _so excited we cannot sleep!_

# DAY 353 (December 19)

# FACING A BATTLE!

Judges 6:14-16

"The LORD turned to him (Gideon) and said, 'Go in the strength you have and save Israel out of Midian's hand. Am I not sending you?' 'But Lord.' Gideon asked, 'how can I save Israel? My clan is the weakest in Manasseh, and I am the least in my family.' The LORD answered, 'I will be with you, and you will strike down the Midianites as if they were one man."

As I begin today, I would like to point out two words in the Scripture I referenced: LORD and Lord.

When we see the word "LORD" in the Old Testament, it is Yahovah or Jehovah. IT IS THE LORD GOD ALMIGHTY.

On the other hand, in Hebrew, the word "LORD" is "ADOWN." It can refer to anyone who is your master. It is not the same word used to designate the all-powerful God of all things.

Jehovah God spoke to Gideon, but Gideon responded only as to one who was a superior. The size of our God, or rather the size of our concept of God, limits the faith and trust we place in Him. MANY TIMES WE CONSIDER OUR PROBLEMS SO LARGE OR COMPLEX THAT WE CANNOT TRUST THEM TO GOD...WE NEED TO GET PROFESSIONAL HELP. YEAH! RIGHT!

The larger this ministry grows, the more I hear from people all over the world with challenges and/or catastrophic decisions which they must make. They reach the place where they are crushed under the burden of this momentous confrontation.

THE QUESTION IS, "WHO DO WE RELY UPON WHEN WE FACE THE TRIALS OF LIFE?" Too often we place our trust and confidence in ourselves, our friends, our professional counselors, but fail to reach out to the Lord, asking Him for His help in our hopeless situation.

Gideon was called upon to save Israel from the Midianites which were allied with the Amalekites and other eastern peoples. It was a mighty military force. The forces of Israel only numbered 32,000. But that was too many for God. The reason? God did not want Israel to think it was their ability that would win the battle which was coming.

The first test God gave to Gideon in order to reduce the size of his army was to send away all of those who were afraid: 22,000 met that criteria and returned home. ONLY 10,000 LEFT? THAT IS RIDICULOUS! YOU CANNOT FIGHT HORDES WITH THAT SMALL ARMY OF MEN. BUT IT WAS STILL TOO MANY FOR GOD.

The next test was the water test. They were to go to the river and drink while Gideon watched: 9,700 got down on their hands and knees to drink, while only 300 scooped up water in their hands and lapped like a dog. They were the vigilant ones, and the ones God selected.

ONLY 300!!! WHY? BECAUSE WHEN THEY WON THE BATTLE, IT HAD TO BE OF GOD!

I am sure that you know the outcome of the battle. Even this small group of 300 did not have to do the fighting. They were each furnished with empty jars, torches, and trumpets and separated into three groups of 100 each. At Gideon's signal, they each broke their jar which revealed the flaming torch. They blew their trumpets and shouted, "For the LORD and for Gideon!"

The enemy soldiers awoke in a panic and turned on each other with their swords. Isn't that a kick?

God brought about such confusion that the enemy became their own enemy. It reminds me of that old line from the comic strip, "POGO." They supposed that they were about to be attacked, so Pogo led a rag-tag bunch of comic characters into the swamp to confront the enemy.

When they saw their reflections in the water, they returned with the news, "WE HAVE FOUND THE ENEMY AND THEY IS US!"

I want to encourage each of you to increasingly call upon the Lord in your time of need. He is the One we need to call upon and look to for our deliverance. Giving all that we are and all that we need into His caring hands, we should then rest in Him and just praise and glorify His name. What joy!

WALK WITH GOD TODAY, TRUST HIM COMPLETELY AND BE A BLESSING.

# DAY 354 (December 20)

# WAY TO GO, BOBBI!

Philippians 1:20-21

"I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death. For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain."

As the days slipped away, it became apparent that Bobbi Cafferty was closer to her heavenly home than to her earthly one.

Cancer had spread through her body and caused severe devastation. She maintained a glowing spirit and became a blessing to all who stopped by to visit.

I am sure that her actions spoke much louder than her words. In spite of that, her words became a blessing of hope and promise to those around her, staff as well as the other residents.

In those days of preparing for her departure from this earth, she wrote the following that was used in her funeral folder.

Her words contain humor as well as a bright hope for each one of us who will someday be walking down the same path.

There was once a woman who woke up one morning, looked in the mirror and noticed she only had three hairs on her head. "Well," she said "I think I'll braid my hair today" So she did and she had a wonderful day!

The next day she woke up, looked in the mirror and saw that she had only two hairs on her head "Hmmm...," she said, "I think I'll part my hair down the middle today".

SO SHE DID AND HAD A GRAND DAY.

The next day she woke up, looked in the mirror and noticed that she had only one hair on her head. "Well," she said "Today I am going to wear a pony tail."

SO SHE DID AND SHE HAD A FUN, FUN DAY.

The next day she woke up, looked in the mirror and noticed that there wasn't a single hair on her head "YEAH!" SHE EXCLAIMED, "I **DON'T HAVE TO FIX MY HAIR TODAY!"**

ATTITUDE IS EVERYTHING.

Be kinder than necessary, for everyone you meet is fighting some kind of battle.

  * LIVE SIMPLY

  * LOVE GENEROUSLY

  * CARE DEEPLY

  * SPEAK KINDLY AND LEAVE THE REST TO GOD!

Bobbi had the same attitude that Paul expressed in today's scripture.

For those of us who have been born again, death is not something to be feared, but just a step into our eternal reward.

THANKS PAUL! THANKS BOBBI!

# DAY 355 (December 21)

# CONTENT!

Philippians 4:12-13

"I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through Him who gives strength."

Several years ago I received the following humorous story. I hasten to add that it could just as easily apply to men as well as women:

Recently a "HUSBAND SHOPPING CENTER" opened in Oklahoma City where women could go to choose a husband from among many men.

It was laid out in five floors, with the men increasing in positive attributes as you ascended up the floors. The only rule was, once you opened the door to any floor, you must choose a man from that floor, and if you went up a floor, you couldn't go back down except to leave the place never to return.

A COUPLE OF GIRLFRIENDS GO TO THE CENTER TO FIND HUSBANDS.

  1. FIRST FLOOR:  
The door had a sign saying: These men have jobs and love kids. The women read the sign and say, "Well, that's better than not having jobs, or not loving kids, but I wonder what's further up?" So up they go.

  2. SECOND FLOOR:  
These men have high paying jobs, love kids, and are extremely good looking. "Hmmm," say the girls. "But, I wonder what's further up?"

  3. THIRD FLOOR:  
These men have high paying jobs, are extremely good looking, love kids and help with the housework. "Wow!" say the women. "Very tempting, BUT, there's more further up!" And up they go.

  4. FOURTH FLOOR:  
These men have high paying jobs, love kids, are extremely good looking, help with the housework, and have a strong romantic streak. "Oh, mercy me. But just think! What must be awaiting us further on!" So up to the fifth floor they go.

  5. **FIFTH FLOOR:  
THE SIGN ON THAT DOOR SAID: This floor is empty and exists only to prove that women are impossible to please. Good-bye**.

" **IF ONLY I HAD A HUSBAND...OR A WIFE...OR A NEW CAR... OR A NEW HOUSE...OR SUCH AND SUCH—THEN I WOULD BE CONTENT!"**

How many times have we heard that, or even uttered words such as those?

By nature we seem to be a people that lack the contentment gene. There is always something not quite to our liking.

Lack of contentment comes as a result of being controlled by our carnal, human nature. Trust me on this, we are in a battle between our human nature and our spiritual nature.

SADLY, IT IS OFTEN OUR HUMAN NATURE THAT WINS OUT OVER THE SPIRITUAL RESOLVES WE MAKE.

I am so glad that Paul gives us a radiant testimony of his victory over discontent. He freely states that there were times in his life when he was prosperous.

But there were also times when he had nothing. He wants us to understand that it is not the good things or distasteful things of life that matter—it is Christ who makes the difference.
Paul sums up his comments on the plenty and lack in a unique manner. It is not the good times or the bad times which gives us contentment in this life―it is the power of Christ, not our power that matters: "I CAN DO EVERYTHING THROUGH HIM WHO GIVES STRENGTH."

Here is another verse which should be a constant reminder for each of us who strive to find lasting contentment.

PROVERBS 3:5-6: "Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight."

# DAY 356 (December 22)

# PUSHING THE BUTTONS!

II Corinthians 11:6-7

"I may not be a trained speaker, but I do have knowledge. We have made this perfectly clear to you in every way. Was it a sin for me to lower myself in order to elevate you by preaching the gospel of God to you free of charge?"

Several years ago, Joyce and I had just stepped into a third-floor elevator in a hospital. I had already pressed the button for the ninth floor when a lady rushed in before the doors closed. She looked at me with a broad smile and said, "First floor, please." I laughed and said, "I'm sorry but I just pushed the button to go up to nine." Instead of being offended, she quickly replied, "Well then, I will just go along for the ride!"

Life is often like that. We are all prepared to go one direction when we suddenly find ourselves on the opposite course. We have two choices:

  1. GO ALONG FOR THE RIDE AND BE USED WHERE THE LORD LEADS, OR

  2. GET OFF AND STAND BY WAITING FOR THE NEXT ELEVATOR TO COME ALONG.

I know that this is a drastic over simplification, but I hope you capture some thread of meaning that will apply to your present situation.

Paul freely admits his lack of training as a speaker, but God used him to become a mighty proclaimer of the truth. His evangelistic fervor elevated people to higher levels. The lost were saved and the weak were made strong in the faith. He may have felt that he was being lowered, but it was so that others might rise.

IT IS NOT OUR "ABILITY" THAT MAKES THE DIFFERENCE, BUT OUR "AVAILABILITY."

When we depend on our ability it is usually more of a handicap than an asset, at least when it comes to serving the Lord. Why? Because we almost always focus attention on ourselves instead of placing our trust in the Lord.

As I prepare these daily messages, my constant prayer is that you may be elevated and may come to rely more and more upon the Lord.

The hours each day that are required have not been a burden, but a blessing. Many of you have graciously written to share how a particular Daily-E was just what you needed to make it through a difficult time.

I WANT TO LET YOU KNOW THAT IT IS CERTAINLY NOT TO MY CREDIT―IT IS GOD WHO IS RESPONSIBLE. I SIMPLY PUSH THE BUTTONS.

_My challenge to each of us is that we will recognize that we are called to be God's elevator operators._ **WE ARE NOT TO TAKE PEOPLE DOWN, BUT TO ELEVATE THEM TO HIGHER LEVELS OF SPIRITUAL GROWTH THAN EVER BEFORE!**

DAY 357 (December 23)

MY CHRISTMAS LETTER!

PROVERBS 3:3

"Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart."

Over the 62 years of our marriage, Joyce has been the driving force behind sending out Christmas cards and greetings. I can remember that she was adamant about getting them in the mail the day after Thanksgiving.

Joyce has not able to do that this year and in fact it has been a few years since she was able to do so. Looking back we can now see that it was because of the early signs of her dementia that limited her ability. This has rapidly progressed and just this past week she was placed on Hospice.

Leaving that behind, we want to send to each of you our love and best wishes. As we celebrate the entry into the world of the King of kings and Lord of lords, please make time from all of the gifting, eating and merriment to stand in awe of a God who loves us so much that He sent His dear Son, born as a tiny baby is a smelly stable.

This is a time for rejoicing in the Lord for all He has done for us. Family and friends will surround us, and that is good. But please take time to spend quality time with the Lord in prayer and thank Him for His marvelous gift of Our blessed Savior and Lord.

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO EACH OF YOU!

#  **DAY 358 (December 24)**

# WHERE'S THE STAR?

Luke 2:4-7

"So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a Son. She wrapped Him in cloths and placed Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn."

Here we are on the threshold of Christmas. On every hand us we are bombarded by the most bizarre symbols for the birth of the king of Kings and lord of Lords. Oh, and by the way—don't call it Christmas—Happy holiday!

At the same time people rush out to buy Christmas trees, not holiday trees. They purchase Christmas presents not holiday presents. I just had to let off a little steam there. I could have gone further.

Let's consider our traditional Christian celebration of Christmas. If we were called upon to create a picture of the manger scene of the birth of Jesus, what would it include? I am sure that we would see baby Jesus in a manger with His earthly parents, Mary and Joseph beside the manger.

Perhaps in the background we would show shepherds and a few cattle bedded down close by.

So far we are doing quite well and the gospel accounts of Jesus' birth would confirm the accuracy of our work of art. If we stopped here, we would be safe. But we continue on and here is where we get off base.

Almost always we would paint a star above the stable and three Magi bringing their gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. BEEP!

Where is that in Scripture? Reading Luke's account, we never read about a star.

THE SHEPHERDS WERE TOLD TO SEEK A NEWBORN CHILD IN A MANGER–NOT A STAR.

Now I am sure that in a small town like Bethlehem there would only be one newborn who of necessity was forced to be placed in a manger following His birth. It may not be as dramatic as a star, but it is what the angel of the Lord told them to look for to find the long awaited Messiah.

The Lord has done this before. When Moses was at the burning bush and the Lord told him to return and lead his people out of bondage, He gave Moses a sign that it was God who sent Moses to deliver His people.

It was not the miraculous plagues, the way the Egyptians gave the Israelites their valuables, the pillar of cloud that led them and protected them or the fantastic parting of the sea to save the Israelites, and closing in on the Egyptians to destroy their armed might.

DO YOU KNOW WHAT IT WAS?

Read what God says to Moses in Exodus 3:12: "And God said, 'I will be with you. And this will be the sign to you that it is I who have sent you: When you have brought the people out of Egypt, you will worship God on this mountain.' "

So the sign; "This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger," is in keeping with the way God works.

Sometimes we look for a spectacular display rather than listening to God's still quiet voice.

# DAY 359 (December 25)

# CHRIST IN CHRISTMAS!

Isaiah 9:6

"For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace."

WHAT A WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR! Christmas has always held a special feeling of joy and peace for me. Gift giving and receiving brings the family nearer then than perhaps at any other time of the year.

When I was serving in the U.S. Air Force and stationed on a remote assignment to northern Newfoundland, Canada, the one song that always brought tears to my eyes was **"I'LL BE HOME FOR CHRISTMAS". I think the last phrase went something like this:** _I'll be home for Christmas, if only in my dreams._

My heart ached to be home with my wife and three kids, but even though I would be separated from them by thousands of miles, I would be with them in my dreams.

There are many scholars who question whether Jesus was actually born on the day we celebrate as Christmas. Their arguments sound very convincing and very well may be true, but their reasoning leaves the Christian church with no other day set apart to honor the miraculous entrance of the Son of God as a tiny baby in a dirty stable. His birth in such surroundings revealed that anyone who would accept Him would have a new home.

THINKING OF THAT NEW HOME THAT JESUS IS PREPARING FOR THOSE WHO ARE HIS CHILDREN MAKES ME HOMESICK.

WE ARE NOT THERE YET, BUT WE CAN SEE HEAVEN IN OUR DREAMS AND YEARN FOR THAT DAY WHEN HE WELCOMES US HOME.

KEEP CHRIST IN CHRISTMAS!

 s

WHY IS CHRISTMAS CELEBRATED ON DECEMBER 25?

Most Christians today probably can't imagine Christmas on any other day than December 25, but it wasn't always that way. In fact, for the first three centuries of Christianity's existence, Jesus Christ's birth wasn't celebrated at all.

The religion's most significant holidays were Epiphany on January 6, which commemorated the arrival of the Magi after Jesus' birth, and Easter, which celebrated Jesus' resurrection.

The first official mention of December 25 as a holiday honoring Jesus' birthday appears in an early Roman calendar from 336 A.D.

**BUT WAS JESUS REALLY BORN ON DECEMBER 25 IN THE FIRST PLACE? PROBABLY NOT.**

The Bible doesn't mention his exact birthday, and the Nativity story contains conflicting clues.

FOR INSTANCE, THE PRESENCE OF SHEPHERDS AND THEIR SHEEP SUGGEST A SPRING BIRTH.

When church officials settled on December 25 at the end of the third century, they likely wanted the date to coincide with existing pagan festivals honoring Saturn (the Roman god of agriculture) and Mithra (the Persian god of light).

**THAT WAY, IT BECAME EASIER TO CONVINCE ROME'S PAGAN SUBJECTS TO ACCEPT CHRISTIANITY AS THE EMPIRE'S OFFICIAL RELIGION.**

The celebration of Christmas spread throughout the Western world over the next several centuries, but many Christians continued to view Epiphany and Easter as more important.

Some, including the Puritans of colonial New England, even banned its observance because they viewed its traditions—the offering of gifts and decorating trees, for example—as linked to paganism.

In the early days of the United States, celebrating Christmas was considered a British custom and fell out of style following the American Revolution.

IT WASN'T UNTIL 1870 THAT CHRISTMAS BECAME A FEDERAL HOLIDAY.

 s

#  DAY 360 (December 26)

#  **HAPPY BIRTHDAY?**

Mathew 2:11

"On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold and of incense and of myrrh."

When was Jesus born? Is there any indication in God's Word that would answer that question? As a matter of fact there is, and it strongly points to the celebration of the Feast of Tabernacles.

The Feast of Tabernacles is called "the season of our joy" and "the feast of the nations."

In Luke 2:10 it is written, "And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which shall be to all people." Thus we can see from this that the terminology the angel used to announce the birth of Jesus were themes and messages associated with the Feast of Tabernacles.

There are other references that you may wish to search out for yourself. Just go online and research the date of Jesus' birth.

I do not want to be an old humbug about this, but it is a sad commentary that we have been programmed by tradition rather than God's Word as to the time of His coming.

But there is another matter that I would like to explore. It is the matter of gift giving. Imagine that it is your birthday and people have flocked over to your house with their arms loaded with gifts. They suddenly begin to exchange these gifts with each other but have brought nothing for you. Do you get the picture?

Let me digress long enough to mention that birthday celebrations are mentioned only twice in Scripture. In both instances the celebration resulted in a beheading.

The first is in Genesis chapter 40 when the Pharaoh had the baker's head removed just as Joseph had foretold.

The second mention of a birthday is recorded in Matthew 14:6 and Mark 6:21. It was the birthday celebration of Herod and you may recall that at the bidding of Herodias, John the Baptist was beheaded.

JESUS CAME INTO THE WORLD TO GIVE MANKIND THE GREATEST GIFT THAT ANYONE COULD EVER IMAGINE—ETERNAL LIFE!

The sad thing is that so many have neglected this precious gift. It is there for anyone who will accept it, but most people ignore it or reject it.

Since the Christmas celebration was just a few days ago, we have almost a year to share the message that it is not the "DAY" we worship, but Jesus who became flesh and lived for a time as a man in order that He might redeem us with His shed blood and give us the precious gift of eternal life!

THAT IS THE REAL GIFT!!

THE HISTORY OF BOXING DAY

WHAT IS BOXING DAY?

HOW MANY TIMES AM I ASKED - WHAT IS BOXING DAY, OR, WHY IS IT CALLED BOXING DAY? Arguments come thick and fast as to why and I hope, like me, you find the answers below interesting. But first off I must say; it has nothing to do with the sport of boxing.

It starts of course with our greed here in Britain and Ireland for a longer holiday; it's not enough for us to have Christmas Day celebrations we have added on another day called Boxing Day. The day is a national holiday and one to spend with family and friends and eating up the leftovers. Its origins however, are steeped in history and tradition.

WHY IS IT CALLED BOXING DAY

Arguments abound on the origins of the name Boxing Day, all of the answers here are relevant, so maybe it is all of them.

A 'Christmas Box' in Britain is a name for a Christmas present.

Boxing Day was a day off for servants and when they received a 'Christmas Box' from the master. The servants would also go home to give 'Christmas Boxes' to their families. A box to collect money for the poor was placed in Churches on Christmas day then opened the next day.

Great sailing ships when setting sail would have a sealed box containing money on board for good luck. If the voyage were a success the box was given to a priest, opened at Christmas and the contents given to the poor.

_Boxing Day is the 26th December and is a national holiday in the UK and Ireland._

# DAY 361 (December 27)

# REMEMBER AND POSSESS!

Luke 2:2-10: "And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, 'Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people."

I have had a favorite Bible preacher who hailed from England. His name was Major Ian Thomas. I am not sure if it was a sermon or book that he wrote that crosses my mind from time to time.

The title was **"A Day to Be Remembered and a Land to Be Possessed."** It dealt with the Exodus from Egypt to the promised-land.

I can still recall how he stressed that it is not enough to remember the time of day we were delivered from the bondage of sin. As wonderful as that day was and certainly a day worthy of remembering, but there is a promised possession God intends for His people to claim.

In a recent study on the life of the miraculous birth of Jesus I have been inspired by the words of Major Thomas.

It has led me to a new thought. When we read in the book of Luke about the birth of Jesus there is a day to be remembered, but that is just the beginning. We have a Man (Jesus) to be possessed.

MILLIONS AROUND THE WORLD HAVE JUST CELEBRATED A DAY HONORING THE BIRTH OF JESUS. Oh, how sad it is that so many people remember the birth of Jesus in a manger, but fail to receive the Christ of Christmas as personal Savior.

IT IS NOT ENOUGH TO KNOW "ABOUT" JESUS, WE MUST RECEIVE HIM INTO OUR HEARTS. IT IS THE ONLY WAY TO OBTAIN AN ABUNDANT ENTRANCE INTO HIS HEAVENLY KINGDOM.

# DAY 362 (December 28)

# EVERYBODY!

Matthew 7:13-14

"Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it."

Last week I was reading a guest column in the local newspaper. The columnist was confessing to a particular bias that she had dealt with and overcome in her life. That would have been all well and good had she stopped there. As is often the case, she didn't!

She went into the transference mode and used the mighty "E" word—EVERYBODY!

She wrote: "Everybody has this same type of prejudicial bias."

HOLD IT, NELLIE!

I HAVE ENOUGH OF MY OWN SHORTCOMINGS WITHOUT YOU IMPOSING YOURS UPON ME AND EVERYONE ELSE IN THE WORLD.

It was like she was trying to justify her sinful attitude by saying that not only were a few other people guilty, "EVERYONE" was guilty.

I GUESS IT FALLS UNDER THE CATEGORY OF MISERY LOVING COMPANY.

For the life of me I fail to see the joy in having a bunch of miserable people clumped together. Where in the world would we find hope or comfort if "EVERYBODY" were in the same wretched condition?

There is another aspect to the "EVERYBODY"- JUSTIFICATION.

It is used as validation to participate in questionable or even blatant sinful activities; it's okay to do it because "EVERYBODY" is doing it.

Many modern day parents are being coerced by their children to allow things that should not be permitted.

These parents fall for the old stale line, "BUT EVERYBODY IS DOING IT!" OR, "EVERYBODY HAS ONE."

It is sad that many young people have been subjected to exploitation because their parents gave in and allowed their children to do things that posed a danger.

It is well past time for believers to stand up and do things God's way regardless of what "EVERYBODY" around us is doing.

We need to inquire of God's Word and read what He says we are to do.

IF GOD SAYS SOMETHING IS WRONG, WE NEED TO STAY AS FAR AWAY FROM THE ACTIVITY AS POSSIBLE!

Jesus said that the path to heaven and eternal bliss is narrow and hard and only a few will enter in.

The way to hell and eternal suffering is wide and easy and many (EVERYBODY) will enter in.

CHOOSE THE RIGHT WAY!

#  DAY 363 (December 29)

#  A COVENANT OF PRAISE!

I Chronicles 16:14-18

"He is the LORD our God; His judgments are in all the earth. He remembers His covenant forever, the word He commanded for a thousand generations, the covenant He made with Abraham, the oath He swore to Isaac. He confirmed it to Jacob as a decree, to Israel as an everlasting covenant: To you I will give the land of Canaan as the portion you will inherit."

Today's Scripture is a Psalm of David found in the book of 1st Chronicles. It was written by David in honor of the return of the Ark of God. It had been brought to Jerusalem and into the tent that David had prepared for it. Of all the people in the Bible, David stands above all others in the area of praise.

From his youth it seems that he was captivated by the awesome nature of God, and expressed it in psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs.

WHAT A GUY!

Too often we read words of praise and are caught up in the adulation of the moment, but fail to see the depth of meaning being expressed.

The concept of Covenant is a fantastic reality. It is expressed and confirmed in the presence of death.

When two people made a covenant, an animal was killed. Between God and Abraham it was animals which had been halved, but it was unique in that God alone passed between the pieces.

The covenant between God and man required the body of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He was sacrificed in our behalf.

MEN MAY DENY THE EXISTENCE OF GOD—THEY MAY IGNORE OR REJECT GOD—BUT GOD IS STILL SUPREME.

We read in today's Scripture that God's judgments are in all the earth. What that tells me is that man may deny Him, but God is and always will be the Blessed Controller of All Things!

It is impossible for us to fully understand the reality of God's covenant. God has never broken a covenant, nor will He ever break His covenant with man.

His covenant has both promises and consequences. It seems impossible that rational people would fail to recognize that rejecting God will result in such horrible judgment. That's reality! But His Word is true.

HOW DOES THIS APPLY TO US?

Probably in many ways—but certainly it teaches that we cannot work out our own salvation.

There is absolutely no possible way that we can do enough good things or obey enough commands to be righteous in God's sight. It is His work. We either accept it or continue on in our rejection of a completed work.

David must have seen through the eyes of faith that one day, almost 1,000 years in the future, Jesus, the promised Messiah, would be born.

This precious Lamb of God who would take away the sins of the world and would be of David's house and lineage.

As we read what David penned under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, it is vital that we understand that God's covenant applies to us. We have been grafted into the branch.

HIS PROMISES OF HIS LOVE AND PROVISION ARE OUR CONSTANT HOPE AND ASSURANCE. MAY WE WALK IN CONFIDENT EXPECTATION! PRAISE HIM FOR HIS COVENANT OF LOVE!

#  DAY 364 (December 30)

# RIGHTEOUS ABEL!

Hebrews 11:4

"By faith Abel offered God a better sacrifice than Cain did. By faith he was commended as a righteous man, when God spoke well of his offerings. And by faith he still speaks, even though he is dead."

In Matthew 21:28-31, Jesus told the parable of two sons. Their father asked both to go and work in the vineyard. The first refused but later changed his mind and went. The second son said he would go but he did not go. Jesus asked the hearers which of the two did the will of his father? The answer from His hearers was the first.

Doing what is right in the sight of God is more than mere words. That does not mean that we are not to speak words of faith, but we certainly must follow them up by faithful action.

THE BOOK OF HEBREWS PRESENTS A GALLERY OF MEN AND WOMEN WHO WERE FAITHFUL TO THE LORD.

They are true champions of the faith and we need to spend time considering what they did, or were, that made them so.

Abel was the second man born in the world. Adam was created by God, Eve was fashioned from a rib taken from man, and Cain was their firstborn son, followed by his brother, Abel. We need to consider what it was like at this early stage of man's life on the planet that God had prepared for them.

God had created a paradise that was beyond anything we can imagine—no weeds, perfect weather, harmonious relationship, non-threatening animals, no sickness, and no death.

GOT THE PICTURE?

But then Adam and Eve sinned and were forced out of the Garden of Eden, weeds began to grow, work was essential to survive, sweat poured from the brow, pain was experienced, and death became a reality, both physically and spiritually.

GENESIS 4 RECORDS THE BIRTHS OF CAIN AND ABEL.

We are not told very much about life during those early days, but a number of things may be inferred.

Each of the two sons of Adam and Eve had their own occupations. In the second part of verse 2, it is Abel, the younger son that is mentioned first. We are told that he kept flocks. He was a shepherd of the sheep.

**David realized in Psalm 23 that** _"...the LORD is my shepherd."_

It is possible that in the times alone with his sheep, Abel communed with God and gained a knowledge of what would be pleasing in His sight. Abel seems to have developed a sweet attitude and a desire to do what was right in the sight of the Lord. He must have considered what he could offer to the Lord that would be acceptable.

After Adam and Eve had sinned (Genesis 3), they were aware that they were naked and tried to deal with their guilt by fashioning coverings from fig leaves. After pronouncing judgment on them and their seed, God Himself made them coverings of animal skins.

That implies the shedding of blood to cover the sin of Adam and Eve, and foreshadowed the shedding of the blood of His own dear Son, Jesus, THE CHRIST, to cover our sin.

**Hebrews 9:22 reiterates that** _"...without shedding of blood there is no remission..."_

Abel was a keeper of the flocks. In some manner he knew that the sacrifice of the most dear and precious of the flock would please God. In contrast, Cain was a tiller of the soil, a farmer.

There were no John Deere tractors back then, and his work was hard and laborious. We have no idea of the type of plants he planted, weeded, and harvested.

It appears that in the day-to-day labors of life, Cain developed a bitter, resentful attitude. There is no mention as to why he brought "SOME" fruits of the soil as an offering to the Lord. Not the first and best, but just "some" of the fruits of the ground.

The words describing Abel's offering start with the word "BUT" in contrast to the offering of Cain.

Abel brought the fat portions of the firstborn of his flock. Again this is a foreshadowing of the Firstborn of the Father who would be sacrificed as the supreme payment of sins.

Abel demonstrated faith in God. He had learned somehow what would be pleasing to God, and he gave his best.

God was pleased with Abel's sacrifice, but not with Cain's. The result of Cain's bitterness and resentment was the murder of his brother. That is how his faith speaks to us today. We do not need others around us to hold our hand and try to map out our life—we need to spend time with God.

ABEL IS A TRUE HERO OF THE FAITH.

He was close enough to God to know what would be pleasing to Him. Hebrews 11 says his life of faith still speaks, even though he is dead. Will your life still speak of faith after you are dead? Does it speak of faith while you are still alive?

TRUST, BELIEVE, AND ACT IN FAITH!

# DAY 365 (December 31)

# ONLY ONE LIFE!

Isaiah 55:6-7

"Seek the Lord while He may be found; call on Him while He is near. Let the wicked forsake their ways and the unrighteous their thoughts. Let them turn to the Lord, and He will have mercy on them, and to our God, for He will freely pardon."

CHARLES THOMAS "C.T." STUDD WAS A MISSIONARY TO CHINA, INDIA, AND AFRICA IN THE LATE 1800'S AND EARLY 1900'S.

His devotion to serve God in the far flung areas of the world can be summed up by one of his quotes: "Forward ever, Backward never! Some wish to live within the sound of Church or Chapel bell; I want to run a Rescue Shop within a yard of hell."

ONE OF HIS QUOTES HAS FREQUENTLY BEEN MISTAKEN TO BE FROM SCRIPTURE, BUT IS ACTUALLY FROM ONE OF HIS POEMS.

ONLY ONE LIFE 'TWILL SOON BE PAST

Two little lines I heard one day, traveling along life's busy way; Bringing conviction to my heart, And from my mind would not depart;

Only one life, 'twill soon be past, only what's done for Christ will last.

Only one life, yes only one, Soon will its fleeting hours be done; Then, in 'that day' my Lord to meet, And stand before His Judgment seat;

Only one life, 'twill soon be past, only what's done for Christ will last.

Only one life, the still small voice, gently pleads for a better choice; bidding me selfish aims to leave, and to God's holy will to cleave;

Only one life, 'twill soon be past, only what's done for Christ will last.

Only one life, a few brief years, each with its burdens, hopes, and fears; each with its clays I must fulfill, living for self or in His will;

Only one life, 'twill soon be past, only what's done for Christ will last.

When this bright world would tempt me sore, When Satan would a victory score; When self would seek to have its way, Then help me Lord with joy to say;

Only one life, 'twill soon be past, only what's done for Christ will last.

Give me Father, a purpose deep, in joy or sorrow Thy word to keep; Faithful and true what e'er the strife, Pleasing Thee in my daily life;

Only one life, 'twill soon be past, only what's done for Christ will last.

Oh let my love with fervor burn, and from the world now let me turn; Living for Thee, and Thee alone, Bringing Thee pleasure on Thy throne;

Only one life, "twill soon be past, only what's done for Christ will last.

Only one life, yes only one, Now let me say,"Thy will be done"; and when at last I'll hear the call, I know I'll say "twas worth it all";

Only one life, 'twill soon be past, only what's done for Christ will last.

WE HAVE A NEW YEAR STRETCHING OUT BEFORE US. MY PRAYER IS THAT THIS YEAR I MAY MAKE THIS PHRASE A REALITY IN MY LIFE.

# **FINAL THOUGHTS**

### Many, many years ago when I was stationed with the U.S. Air Force in Shreveport, Louisiana, Dr. John Hall became my spiritual mentor.

### I am still frequently reminded of this little anecdote he shared with me during that time: While on his rounds one day, as was his usual practice he asked a certain elderly patient how she was doing.

### ON THAT PARTICULAR DAY THE WOMAN LOOKED AT HIM AND INSIGHTFULLY ANSWERED, "LIFE IS SO DAILY!"

### What a great reply. We often forget the truth of that simple observation. We spend so much time grieving over the past or worrying about the future that we neglect what we should be doing today.

### C.T. Studd penned a poem that contains a line that many people have become so familiar with that they think it comes from the Bible. It is a truth that should direct our path as we walk through this journey of life:

### "Only one life, 'twill soon be past,  
Only what's done for Christ will last."

I constantly ask myself this question: "WHAT AM I DOING FOR JESUS CHRIST THIS DAY THAT WILL LAST FOR ETERNITY?" After all that He has done for me, I know that I will never be able to do enough.

### This book represents only a fraction of the Daily-E-Votionals I have sent out five days a week since 1990.

If you would like to subscribe to receive the Daily-E-Votionals by email, send your request to me at PastorCecil@Daily-E-Votional.com.

### THEY ARE FREELY GIVEN TO ENCOURAGE YOU IN YOUR DAILY LIFE WALK.

### I would like to close with this passage of Scripture from Proverbs 3:5-6:

### "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths."

### May God richly bless you as you bless others by your words and actions!

### ―Pastor Cecil

# **ABOUT PASTOR CECIL**

From time to time I receive requests asking about me and who I am. To be honest, I occasionally ask myself the same questions. With that in mind, I would like to give you a brief glimpse of who this guy is who calls himself **"Pastor Cecil."**

CURRENT STATUS:

Pastor, Tumwater Chapel of Grace Ministries

5116 Bald Eagle Lane S.W.

Tumwater, Washington 98512

PastorCecil@Daily-E-Votional.com

MINISTRY EXPERIENCE:

  * Preaching assignments in South Dakota, Newfoundland, Missouri;

  * Assoc. Pastor (Discipleship/Counseling) - Nampa, Idaho, 1st Nazarene;

  * Pastor - Burns, Oregon Church of the Nazarene;

  * Pastor - Shelton, Washington Church of the Nazarene;

  * Pastor - Olympia, Washington – Summit Lake Community Church;

  * Pastor - Chapel of Grace Ministries.

PERSONAL BACKGROUND AND TESTIMONY:

I accepted Jesus Christ as my personal Savior during a Vacation Bible School in Camas, Washington, when I was in the third or fourth grade. It was a genuine experience and I have never turned back from following Him all of my life. In 1948 I fell in love with my sweetheart Joyce when we were both 14. Throughout our 62 plus years of marriage we remained totally devoted to each other.

Joyce and I were blessed with three beautiful children and eight gorgeous grandchildren. Blessing is the operative word in our life because we early on learned the secret of blessing.

In 1991, one year after becoming pastor at Summit Lake Community Church, our oldest daughter ascended to be with our Lord. We learned the blessing of trusting the Lord even when allowing our precious girl to slip the bonds of this world. Her three children, surrounded with our prayers, became such a joy to us. We are even more blessed to have our son Dan, his wife Donna and their family living close to us.

Our youngest daughter, Lori, experienced kidney failure in 2001. She started kidney dialysis and went on the transplant list for both her kidney and pancreas. On December 18, 2001, our granddaughter Jenna (Brenda's daughter), donated one of her kidneys to her aunt Lori. The transplant was a great success.

On February 5, 2002, a pancreas became available and was transplanted at the University Of Washington Medical Center where the kidney transplant had been completed the previous year. Several months later the pancreas failed and Lori received a second transplant. She has experienced several challenges since the transplants, but we walk by faith, as does she, and simply allow the Lord to work out the details.

Together Joyce and I experienced many blessings of the Lord on our ministry. Even though my dear wife has now ascended to be with our Lord, we always believed that there is no such thing as retirement. I want to be found faithful when the Lord calls me to be with Him and reunited with my dear ones who have gone on before me.

This is a tiny glimpse of Pastor Cecil. My one desire is to be used in any and every way the Lord chooses.

Walk with God today, trust Him completely, and be a blessing.

Pastor Cecil

PASTOR CECIL'S "THE SANDS OF ETERNITY" VIDEO MESSAGE AT: http://www.pastorcecil.com/

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO SUBSCRIBE TO THE DAILY-E-VOTIONALS FREE OF CHARGE, PLEASE SEND AN E-MAIL TO:

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PASTOR CECIL'S VIDEO MESSAGE:

THE SANDS OF ETERNITY   
<http://www.pastorcecil.com/>

LIFE IS SO DAILY! (A 365 Day Walk with the Word)  
© 2015 by Pastor Cecil Thompson  
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