Day 1
A STANDARD OF CHARACTER
Have you ever welcomed an examination of your life?
You may see yourself in the mirror of this chapter. Follow the list and see the integrity of Job. [Job 31]
1. Purity in the look -v1. I made a covenant with my eyes not to look lustfully at a girl.
2. Cleanliness of hands -v7b. ...or if my hands have been defiled. See Psalm 24:4
3. Thoughtful of domestic servants-v13. If I have denied justice to my menservants and maidservants.
4. Justice for the poor-v16. If I have denied the desires of the poor.
5. Willingness to share-v17. If I have kept my bread to myself, not sharing it with the fatherless.
6. Clothing for the poor-v19,32. If I have seen anyone perishing for lack of clothing, or a needy man without a garment.
7. Gave help to the fatherless-v21. If I have raised my hand against the fatherless, knowing that I had influence in court.
8. Did not love money-v24,25. If I have put my trust in gold or said to pure gold,'You are my security.'
9. Refused to turn to idols-v26,27. If I have regarded the sun, the moon and my hand offered them a kiss of homage...
10. Did not rejoice over the misfortune of others-v29. If I have rejoiced at my enemies misfortune or gloated over the trouble that came to them.
11. Confession of wrong-v33. If I have concealed my sin as men do, by hiding my guilt in my heart.
12. Accountable-v37. I would give him account of my every step.
Job may be defensive in this chapter, but it still reveals something of his character.
Are your standards as high as his?
For the believer, the person of Jesus Christ is the standard.
He left us an example that we should follow in His steps.
Read:
Day 2
PSALM 78--A PSALM OF INSTRUCTION
LESSONS FROM HISTORY!
A GOOD BIBLE STUDY!
The first verse would have us hearing with the ear to the words of His mouth.
We will divide the Psalm into two main themes: The sins of Israel and the wonders of God.
There is first of all a challenge to tell the next generation.[vv1-8] Our children must know the deeds of the Lord. Turn to Judges 2:10 for a frightening comment.
Four sins of Israel are listed in v9-11
[Ephraim, then was the strongest tribe; they lost their precedence later- v67]
See the Wonders of God! [vv12-16]
See the sins of Israel. [vv17-22]
Rebelliousness became Israel's way of life.
See the Wonders of God! [vv23-29] --read Exodus16:13.
See the sins of Israel [v30]
See the Wonders of God! [v31] --read Numbers 11:33-35
See the sins of Israel [v32] O, the sin of unbelief!
See the Wonders of God! [vv33-35] The disciplines of God!
See the sins of Israel [vv36-37 --read Isaiah 1:11-13
See the Wonders of God! [vv38-39]
See the sins of Israel [vv40-42]
See the Wonders of God! [vv43-55]
See the sins of Israel [vv56-58]
See the Wonders of God! [vv59-72]
Or do you show contempt for the riches of his kindness, tolerance and patience, not realizing that God's kindness leads you towards repentance? (Romans 2:4)
God is good! God is gracious! God is great!
Day 3
GOD YEARNS FOR SINNERS
Do I take any pleasure in the death of the wicked? declares the Sovereign LORD. Rather, am I not pleased when they turn from their ways and live? (Ezekiel 18:23) But if a wicked man turns away from the wickedness he has committed and does what is just and right, he will save his life. (Ezekiel 18:27} For I take no pleasure in the death of anyone, declares the Sovereign LORD. Repent and live! (Ezekiel 18:32) What is man that you are mindful of him, the son of man that you care for him? (Psalms 8:4 )
Many do not understand that God ,who has the utmost hatred for sin can have and does have the tenderest yearning of heart toward sinners. God has and is drawing men and women to Himself with cords of infinite love. There are men who know they are sinners, but care not; there are those who do not know that they are guilty in the sight of God; and there are others who do know and who care.
To all the Saviour is offering divine mercy, redemption and everlasting life. The song writer states a real truth, "Christ, Receives Sinful Men".
The parable of the lost sheep [Luke 15] is designed to show the pleasure God takes in the conversion of sinners. The God of heaven pursues poor wandering sinners with the call of His word and the striving of His Holy Spirit until they turn from their wicked ways. God takes pleasure in repenting returning sinners. The repentance and conversion of sinners on earth are matters of joy and rejoicing in heaven. It is possible that the greatest sinners may be brought to repentance. While there is life there is hope. The worst need not to be despaired of; and the worst of sinners, if they repent and turn to God will find mercy. The conversion of a soul from sin to God is the raising of that soul from death to life. It is a great and wonderful and happy change. When sinners repent it accomplishes God's design.
There will be joy in heaven, joy in your home and joy in your heart!
Come now, let us reason together,'' says the LORD. ``Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool. (Isaiah 1:18)
Read:
Day 4
THE INFANT CHURCH
The book of Acts is to the gospels what fruit is to the tree. In the gospels we see the corn of wheat falling into the ground and dying; in Acts we see the bringing forth of fruit. In the gospels we see Jesus purchasing the church with His blood; in Acts we see the church, so purchased, rising into actual existence. First among the Jews at home, next to the surrounding Gentiles until it gains footing in the great capitals of the ancient world-from Jerusalem to Rome and out into the uttermost part of the earth.
The infant church was mighty in its' infancy! Their childlike trust seemed to be sprinkled with resurrection freshness. They were in fellowship with their risen Lord. The resurrection of Christ was an unquestionable fact to them. He had become their very life! They had each experienced the power of His presence.
They were in fellowship with one another. They were together in unity and prayer. They were waiting as instructed for the promise of the Holy Spirit.
Speaking about prayer: E.M.Bounds says, "How feeble, vain and little is our praying compared with the time and energy devoted to praying by holy men in and out of the Bible; no learning, no earnestness, no diligence, no study, no gifts will supply for the lack of prayer. What the church needs today is men of prayer, men mighty in prayer." Prayer means warfare and every time we pray we possess more of the enemies territory. A good man's prayers will climb heaven's heights and bring a blessing down!
The infant church was inspired and instructed by the scriptures. They honoured the Word! The choice of another disciple was discerned through the scriptures. [Acts 1:15]
Just looking ahead, Pentecost brought about some great characteristics: A learning church, a church of fellowship, a praying church, a church where things happened, a sharing church, a worshipping church, a happy church and a church of people whom others could not help liking.
[Acts 2:47] Praising God and enjoying the favour of all the people.
Read:
Day 5
THE EMPOWERED CHURCH
A praying church will always be a powerful church. The true and real influence of a church does not consist in the number or social position of its members, not in the stateliness of the building, but in the presence and power of the Holy Spirit.
Pause to check the "one accord" verses for a moment:
King James
When brethren dwell together in unity, there the Lord will command His blessing [Psalms133]. We could coin the word "Togethertiveness."
To be filled with the power of the Holy Spirit we must be emptied of all self-seeking and uncharitableness. The Holy Spirit comes in as we make room for Him!
During the revival back in 1948 at the Prarie Bible Institute, Mr.Geswein said,"The Holy Spirit is resident in the believer, but is He president?" As believers we are sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise." And you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation. Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit." (Ephesians 1:13) James McConkey once said, "I used to think that a few men had the monopoly on the Holy Spirit; now I know that the Holy Spirit has a monopoly on a few men."
Through the sending of the Holy Spirit to empower the church, God was going to establish and extend His kingdom and make known the gospel to the ends of the earth. The Holy Spirit was promised and given as a gift from the Father.
The Holy Spirit came as a "mighty wind" and as "tongues of fire", symbolic of a personality that cannot be limited or controlled by the mere will of man. They were all filled with the Holy Spirit. They were possessed and controlled by the mighty power of God. As earthen vessels they were charged with heavenly treasure. There is no hiding of this power. The church was enabled to speak different languages with clear expression and appropriate words. The church had the ministry of communication-"they began to speak." It was amazing what effect they had on their community. The crowds in Jerusalem that day heard the church declaring the wonders of God in their own language.
In our personal lives we need the infilling of the Holy Spirit. I need to yield to the Holy Spirit! Be ye being filled is Pauls good word to the church at Ephesus.[Ephesians 5:18]
"Fillings" kept coming to them to replenish the Spirit and power they had received.[ See: Acts 4:8 Acts 4:31, Acts 13:52.] We must continue to live and walk in the Spirit. Much of this happens when we are full of the Word.
Read:
Day 6
THE WITNESSING CHURCH
A praying church will always be a powerful church. The church became a real witnessing church. Peter becomes the mouth piece of the church in it's early beginnings. Peter quotes from the book of Joel where the promise of the Spirit was given.[Joel 2:28-32]
Peter testifies to the Divine approval of Jesus of Nazareth. His miracles, wonders and signs were incontestable of His holiness and oneness with the Father. Peter has great boldness; he knows no fear declaring the resurrection. They were witnesses of His resurrection! Peter was driving home the things of which they the people themselves had read.[Acts 2:25-35]
The outpouring of the Holy Spirit was promised by the Father after the ascension of Jesus Christ. The Holy Spirit was now at work convicting unbelievers of sin. With conviction came confession![v37] Peter did not leave them in the dark. Peter replied, Repent and be baptised, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.
Peter did not say, "Reform and be more civilized, no, but repent and be baptized. To repent was to change their minds completely regarding Jesus Christ whom they rejected; and to be baptized implied the renouncing of the old life. It was an open confession of Christ as Lord! In doing this they would receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. This message received a tremendous response."
Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day." (Acts 2:41)
Being grafted into the living Christ, they became possessed with His Spirit and they grew in grace and in the knowledge of their Lord and Saviour.
There was gladness of heart, they were praising God and enjoying the favour of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved. (Acts 2:47)
Read:
Day 7
LAME FROM BIRTH
The Acts are full of the acts of the power of God. Spirit filled men were on the cutting edge! Peter and John are the instruments through whom God is working.
First we see a picture of Need. Now a man crippled from birth was being carried to the temple gate called Beautiful, where he was put every day to beg from those going into the temple courts. (Acts 3:2) He was willing to be laid in the way of getting help. He had never played with other boys. He never climbed a hill or gone fishing with his father. He had never run an errand for his mother. But one day that all changed. From force of habit he stretched out his hand for a gift. How his heart must of filled with hope as he saw Peter and John stop. Then he heard "Look on us!" The door of hope opened! He gave them his attention. Peter said, `Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.'' (Acts 3:6)
They had faith in the saving name of the risen Christ. They had something infinitely better than silver or gold. Instantly the man's feet and ankles became strong. He jumped to his feet and began to walk. An unmistakable testimony! He is walking and jumping and praising God.
[Check in on Isaiah 35:6]
Of course the people were filled with wonder and amazement. Peter cashes in on the opportunity. What an opportunity to preach the name of Jesus Christ. By faith in the name of Jesus, this man whom you see and know was made strong. It is Jesus' name and the faith that comes through Him that has given this complete healing to him, as you can all see. (Acts 3:16) With all the authority of heaven, Peter calls his people to repentance.
What happened to the lame man is a picture of what happens to the sinner when he comes to the Lord Jesus Christ. Sin makes us cripple in God's sight; we are helpless and hopeless. We are unable to walk pleasing to God. We need to come to Christ! Christ has been raised up and appointed for us. When God raised up his servant, he sent him first to you to bless you by turning each of you from your wicked ways.'' (Acts 3:26) Jesus came to give His life; He came to save the lost; He came to reconcile us to God.
Read:
Day 8
A WITNESS
Nevertheless he left not himself without witness, in that he did good, and gave us rain from heaven, and fruitful seasons, filling our hearts with food and gladness. [Acts 14:17]
I borrow the words," He left not Himself without witness." But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth. (Acts 1:8)
We are to be witnesses! We witness in the power of the Holy Spirit and leave the results with Him. Witnessing is letting Christ walk into your conversation. The Lord has placed believers in the work place in the real world to be a witness for Him. We witness by life and by lip to those around us. We are being watched! Our attitude toward employer and employees will show. Our work ethic should reflect our relationship with our Lord.
The great commission remains. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, [even] unto the end of the world. Amen.(Matthew 28:16-20)
We are accountable! So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God. (Romans 14:12)
Paul speaks about persuasion! Knowing therefore the terror of the Lord, we persuade men; but we are made manifest unto God; and I trust also are made manifest in your consciences.
In the context of 2 Cor. 5 we have the responsibility of being ambassadors v20. The message of reconciliation is what we share.[2 Corinthians 5:19]
Do your neighbours, your employers and your employees know that you are a Christian? Do we really believe that the gospel is the power of God? Are we ashamed to be identified with Jesus Christ? Can we identify with Paul? For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. (Romans 1:16) What we share is superior to anything the world has to offer. May we be gracious, tactful, courteous and friendly. May our lives be consistent and clean.
Lord lay some soul upon my heart and love that soul through me; and may I nobly do my part to win that soul for Thee.
He that wins souls is wise.[Proverbs11:30]
Read:
Listen to the Taylors sing We are Not Ashamed
Day 9
A FRIEND-A NEW PARTNER
A friend loves at all times, [Proverbs 17:17]
A man [that hath] friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend [that] sticks closer than a brother.
The last line of Prov.18:24 has been used in connection with Jesus Christ. He comes nearer to us than any brother can. A human brother can draw very near to us in his knowledge of us and his brotherly sympathy with us; but not as Christ, our Divine Friend, can and does. His knowledge of us is perfect! Our hopes, fears, struggles and sorrows are all known to Him. He is the sympathizing Saviour. The sympathy of our friends and loved ones is limited. Their presence is greatly appreciated, but Jesus comes nearer than any one person can. Some friendships are temporary, some are shallow. Jesus proves His friendship by doing more than any man ever did for his brother. Greater love has no-one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends. (John 15:13)
Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and for ever. (Hebrews 13:8) He is always the same; our brother is not. We can never be quite sure that our kindest brother will be in a mood or in a position to lend us his ear or his hand. Jesus is always available!
True friendship is independent of time. It does not wear out with years. True friendship is independent of circumstances. It holds on through thick and thin.
Friendship is possible! I would encourage you to seek the lasting friendship of Jesus Christ. He is a Friend you can introduce to others. His friendship is love! It is not our attractiveness; it is the love of Jesus that makes Him our abiding, faithful Friend. Go with Proverbs 18:24 today!
A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother. A friend loves at all times. (Proverbs 17:17 )
Read:
Day 10
JUDAS ISCARIOT
God's book is full of warning! Men of the scriptures stand there as red lights to make us stop and think. Judas Iscariot is one of them. Think of it! Does it not make you shudder? He was with Jesus approximately three years; yet he chose to go his own way. It is hard to believe that he would betray his Master.
Environment will not necessarily make us true followers of Jesus Christ. Belonging to a Christian home will not make you a Christian. Faith is a very personal thing! We need to decide to make a decision. Our parents cannot make this decision for us. We have to choose!
This is also saying that the human heart is capable of rejecting Christ and all the light we have regarding salvation. Are we rejecting the message, the gospel because we have heard it so frequently? We go to church, hear the Word of God and have no intention of ever deciding to accept God's invitation. We may put on a good front and yet never know in our heart that we have eternal life.
Judas Iscariot appeared to be good. Like the time of Christ's anointing at Bethany.[John 12:4-5] All the time covetousness ruled in his heart. He did not say this because he cared about the poor but because he was a thief; as keeper of the money bag, he used to help himself to what was put into it. (John 12:6) He did not care about the poor.
There came a moment in time when Judas saw the folly of his sin. There was remorse but not repentance. He went out and it was night. God has a place for every man; it will be either heaven or hell. We have this life to prepare for the next.
Have you ever been born again from above by the Spirit of God through faith in Jesus Christ, who loved you and gave Himself for you? Do you know you are His child? The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are God's children. (Romans 8:16)
Read:
Day 11
A PERSONAL ENCOUNTER
WITH CHRIST
By faith you know that Jesus Christ is your personal Saviour! Today, I want to single out four persons from the Bible who made personal experiences with Jesus Christ.
Paul on the road to Damascus made a right about turn and his whole life was changed.
The Ethiopian eunuch, a man of great authority, reading the scriptures, with the help of Philip, made a decision for the Lord Jesus Christ.
A fortune teller woman with the spirit of divination came to know Christ through the ministry of Paul. The Philippian jailor cried out for salvation after the earthquake set the prisoners free. The hard jail keeper became a child of God, a changed man because he believed in the Lord Jesus Christ as his personal Saviour. [Acts 16:16-34] In all the four there was a great change.
Paul a persecutor became a great preacher; the Eunuch, from heathenism to Christianity; the fortune teller with a foul spirit to a clean heart and the jailor, from cruelty to the servant of the living God.
Why do men and women turn to Jesus Christ? Is there a desire for peace. We all know the phrase or saying," The heart is restless until it rests in God." The world cannot give peace of heart. The world was never meant to satisfy the human heart! A round world cannot fill a three cornered heart. The desire to be set free from the slavery of sin is a good reason to turn to Jesus Christ. The desire to understand the written Word of God, even the conviction the Word brings to the heart of men. Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the Word of God. The response to dramatic drastic demonstrations like the earthquake will bring men to call upon and decide for Christ.
What happens when men turn to Jesus Christ? Is there a process? There is the acknowledgement of sin. We sin because we are sinners. Remember, Paul acknowledged that he was the worst of sinners.[1 Timothy 1:15] There is a remedy for sin! If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us [our] sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (1 John 1:9) There is faith in the Lord Jesus. We accept Jesus Christ as our personal Lord and Saviour by faith. With all the four mentioned above, faith in the Lord Jesus Christ became very personal. A wonderful change takes place. Man leaves the old life and puts on the new. The whole plan of salvation is a work of God's grace!
Read:
Day 12
CHRIST MY REDEEMER
Two striking thoughts run through the history of mankind. The depravity of man and the redemption of Jesus Christ. The moment sin entered in Eden the promise of redemption followed. Some have asked, "Why did God permit sin?" The greater question is, "Why did He plan to take it away?"
Through Jesus Christ there is redemption from sin. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.
All of us have become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous acts are like filthy rags; we all shrivel up like a leaf, and like the wind our sins sweep us away. (Isaiah 64:6)
Every act of disobedience against God is sin. Sin must be punished! Sin will be punished! To be a righteous and a holy God there must be an equal amount of hatred for sin. God cannot tolerate sin! Sin is evil and God is good!
There is hope! There is redemption! Christ is the Redeemer! Christ saves from sin! Christ forgives sin! When the Lord God forgives sin, through faith in Jesus Christ, He blots them out and remembers them no more. You will again have compassion on us; you will tread our sins underfoot and hurl all our iniquities into the depths of the sea. (Micah 7:19)
Jesus also justifies! He declares us righteous! God presented him as a sacrifice of atonement, through faith in his blood. He did this to demonstrate his justice, because in his forbearance he had left the sins committed beforehand unpunished -he did it to demonstrate his justice at the present time, so as to be just and the one who justifies those who have faith in Jesus. (Romans 3: 25-26)
Jesus gives us eternal life! The gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. We love Him because He first loved us. Our salvation cost Him His life. Have you ever thanked Him for your salvation? Aren't you glad for the invitation of
Isaiah 1:18? ``
Come now, let us reason together,'' says the LORD. ``Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool. Praise the Lord!
Read:
Day 13
WHEN GOD FORGIVES HE FORGETS
I, even I, am he who blots out your transgressions, for my own sake, and remembers your sins no more.
I have swept away your offences like a cloud, your sins like the morning mist. Return to me, for I have redeemed you.'' (Isaiah 44:22)
From man's standpoint let us check in with Colossians 3:13. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive him, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins.'' (Mark 11:25)
Then do you remember Peter's question: Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother when he sins against me?" Up to seven times?'' Jesus answered, ``I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times. (Matthew 18:21-22)
Then the verse on how to forgive-This is how my heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother from your heart.'' (Matthew 18:35)
When God forgives He forgets. Our sins are blotted out; they are gone; they are cast behind His back and they are remembered no more. God is merciful! Do you know earth's greatest measure? Here it is- as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us. (Psalms 103:12)
Christ died for our sins! Calvary covers it all is the thought of a song. Someone had read that the ocean was seven miles deep at one point and that brought a spontaneous Hallelujah! Why? What does Micah say? You will again have compassion on us; you will tread our sins underfoot and hurl all our iniquities into the depths of the sea. (Micah 7:19)
What about forgiving one another! Is our forgiveness genuine? Do we harbour an unforgiving spirit? Let me say again,"Never harbour an unforgiving spirit; nothing sours life more." I think Peter's question as to how many times, finds its answer in forgiving all the time. Love does not compile statistics; does not keep records of wrongs.
A custom in Africa was known as "Forgiveness Week". Everyone pledged to forgive any wrong real or fancied that may have caused some misunderstanding. The week was terminated with a festival of happiness and rejoicing among the native believers. Could we initiate a week like this?
Let us go into today with Psalm 32:1. Blessed is he whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered. Amen!
Read:
Day 14
ETERNAL LIFE
He lives who lives to God alone, and all are dead beside. For other source than God is none, whence life can be supplied. Life is certain! God has given us life! Man is a living soul! God is the author of natural life; physical life that is so short and uncertain.
God is the author and the source of eternal life. He is the living God! He is the Fountain of life.{Psalm 36:9} God promised eternal life from the beginning of the world.{Titus 1:2}
Eternal life is in Jesus Christ! " In Him was life and the life was the light of men."{1 John 1:4} Jesus Christ gives eternal life. {John 10:28} "Jesus Christ has abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel."{2 Timothy 1:10} "He that hath the Son hath life, he that hath not the Son of God hath not life." [1 John 5:12]
There is also the witness of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit takes the things of the word and points to the Saviour. The Holy Spirit is faithful in speaking to our hearts through the Word. We have to do with the Word of God and the Holy Spirit, who is convicting and convincing us that we need to accept the gift of eternal life. The Holy Spirit bears witness with our spirit that we are His children.[Romans 8:16]
The Word of God is the instrument of this spiritual life. [1 Peter 1:23] The Word of God is quick [living] sharper than any two edged sword.[ Hebrews 4:12 ] The Word of God gives us the assurance that we know that we have eternal life. [ 1 John 5:13 ] This has been a source of assurance to me personally!
How do we possess this life? Eternal life is the promise of God! This promise is the Word of life! He that believeth has everlasting life! Eternal life is a gift! It must be given for it cannot be bought. God is offering eternal life as a gift to all who will receive it. He will never force anyone to take it. The"whosoever will" still stands!
Eternal life is the gift of God through Jesus Christ our Lord. This life is received by faith! Believe in child-like faith. Receive Him! [ John 1:12 ] Eternal life may be yours for the taking!
Read:
Day 15
A GREAT FAILURE
The parable of the rich fool was spoken to a man with a greedy eye. He misunderstood the mission of Christ. Christ was not a judge over property and possessions. The watch word was: ``Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; a man's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.'' (Luke 12:15)
Then the story follows. The rich man was evidently a land proprietor. He could pull down his barns at will without consulting anyone. The day of prosperity is perhaps a greater test of a man's character than the day of adversity. The vision of lavish abundance is before his eyes. He is thinking! He is asking! The die is cast! "This is what I'll do, I will tear down my barns and build bigger ones." He is weighed in the balance and found wanting. There is no recognition of God in all his plans; no acknowledgement of His goodness. God is not in all his thoughts. He built his barns too narrow-"for self". He built his barns too low- he left God out! This rich pauper's life was entirely absorbed in his own ease and gratification. A self-centered life is forever a lost life! "Plenty of good things"-they would do nothing for him in eternity. He built his barns too short-for this life only! If riches are your best friends you will someday have to say good-bye to them.
What a terrible awakening! God said to him." You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you." This sudden hand-writing of God on the wall of his self-satisfied soul was a fearful interruption of his godless plans. Covetousness is a kind of lunacy that makes men fools in the sight of God. The Lord had this application. ``This is how it will be with anyone who stores up things for himself but is not rich towards God.''
Not to be rich toward God when He has brought within our reach the un-searchable riches of Christ; the riches of His grace and glory is to play the fool. Covetousness even in the New Testament is classed with idolatry.
Let me say it again as if I haven't said it throughout these writings, "Things" lack permanence"!
Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. Colossians 3:2)
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.
Read:
Day 16
FROM DARKNESS TO LIGHT: John 9
Jesus did not go about the world as a sight-seer; He went about doing good. The blind man was to Jesus a far more interesting sight than any building. We may be sure that Jesus looks down on this world in the same way today. The Lord Jesus confirms the declaration that He is the Light of the World by giving sight to the blind as well as light and life to all who believe.
The leading features of this chapter can easily be gathered up. There was blindness! This blindness has all the mystery of the origin of sin hanging about it. It was not because he or his parents had sinned in any particularly grievous way that he was born blind; but that the work of God should be manifest. This man was born blind that the Son of Man might have the opportunity of showing His divine power.
Was not sin permitted to enter the world for the same reason, that the wonderful works of God's love and grace should be made known in the incarnation and the crucifixion of His Son?
There was deliverance! The method of this man's salvation was about as strange and mysterious as was the cause and origin of the blindness. His eyes were anointed with clay made by spittle; and then he was told to go and wash in the pool of Siloam.[v6]
There was no virtue in the dust, nor the spittle, nor the clay formed, nor the pool, nor in the washing to unseal the eyes of this man born blind. The eye-opening power lay in his obedience to the word of Him who spoke. The man was not responsible for being born blind, but he was responsible for accepting or rejecting the word-"Go wash!" Had he not obeyed the word he would have remained blind.
It is when we believe and obey Him, putting His word to the test by an actual definite committal; that’s when we come seeing.
The blind man took no credit to himself in the matter, and is not ashamed to tell all he knows about it and that was not much.[v11] He could only tell of the means; he could not explain the miracle. There is a joyful ring about the "I know" in v25. It is the confidence born of a blessed experience. Although he knew little about the Man who opened his eyes, his faith in Him was very great.
It is a sure sign that Jesus Christ has become a blessed Master when he is anxious that others become His disciples too. [v27] The name of Jesus has little power in our lives if it does not inspire us fearlessly to plead with others to trust and follow Christ. When Jesus met the blind man a second time [v35] the blind man believed and worshipped Him [v38]. To believe is to have the Light of Life! To reject the Light is to remain in darkness.
Read:
Day 17
SIR, WE WANT TO SEE JESUS!
They came with a desire! May that be our desire!
What does this desire imply? It implied that they had some knowledge of Jesus. They had heard about Him. His name was familiar to them. They may have had an idea about Him being Messiah. It implied that they longed for more; for this knowledge to increase. What they knew was not enough. What they knew was limited. Did they want to know Him in a personal way or in an experimental way? It implied that they came to the right place and persons. They came to Philip. Philip told Andrew, and they both come to Jesus.
When have you last seen Jesus? Today we see Him in His word. Has the song ever spoken to you, "More about Jesus"? Would you know more about Him? I trust you know Him as your personal Saviour.
What reasons do we have for this desire?
Do you know what we see? We see the clearest manifestation of the Father. He came to show us the Father.[John 1:18]
We see His boundless knowledge, His power, His love and His holiness. In Christ we see the wisdom of God. We see the "storehouse" of all spiritual blessing.[Ephesians 1:3]
In Christ we see the fullness of God. We see pardon for the guilty, peace for the restless, joy for the unhappy, salvation for the lost, eternal life for those who believe and an inheritance that never fades.
What does a "believing sight" of the Lord Jesus do for us? It enlightens the mind. We were in darkness and in sin and one day the light shone in; and we became the children of light. It cheers and comforts the heart. The "fear nots" of the Bible are so encouraging. It transforms the soul; we are partakers of His divine nature.
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come! (2 Corinthians 5:17) And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord's glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.
When is the best time to come asking like the Greeks? The best time is NOW! The invitation still stands. ``Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. (Matthew 11:28)
Salvation is found in no-one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved.''
Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. (Hebrews 12:2)
Read:
Day 18
JONAH- POEM
Jonah built a little booth
A shelter from the heat.
A gourd vine grew, protection from
The wind that on him beat.
Jonah rejoiced, exceeding glad
For this convenient gourd-
Espec'lly since this comfort was
Provided by the Lord!
"I thank Thee Lord, Thou hast been good
To my dear wife and me;
We're glad we're in a peaceful land
Of great prosperity.
It makes us feel so good---
This little bungalow--
The kitchenette, the living room,
The rug, so soft you know.
We love our children, every one
We keep them home for God.
The homeland needs them just as much
As mission fields abroad.
And fundamentalists are we,
My children, wife and I --
So thankful that we're saved by grace,
Secure until we die!
"What didst Thou say? Oh--Nineveh?
Well, that’s another thing.
Right now we want to praise our God
We're sheltered neath His wing!
Thus fundamental Jonah's to
The Lord their praises tell.
They'll sing,"We're saved and satisfied."
Till Nineveh goes to hell!
Day 19
JONAH, THE RUN AWAY PROPHET
The book of Jonah stands among the minor prophets as a lesson of the cost of disobedience. Jonah knew the claims of God on his life. He had a mission in the plan and purpose of God. He knew the call of God! He knew the message that he was to bring to Nineveh. However, Jonah runs away from his task. He bought a ticket for a boat ride to end the call and the commission. He thought to get away from the presence of God by changing his geographical location. He was going to get out of his circumstance , when the Lord created another circumstance to hem him in. God sends a violent storm! Fear grips the crew! Jonah is asleep! The captain comes to rebuke him. Jonah had to admit he was running away from God. This confession sets them all in a state of fear.
When in trouble people will cry to God.
The word from Jonah was to throw him into the sea, and all would be calm. At first they did not want to do this; they did not want to be guilty of taking a man's life. The storm did not stop until they threw Jonah overboard. The calm of the storm put the fear of the Lord in the hearts of the sailors.
Have we sensed the call of God upon our lives? Have we shared our faith in the work place? Have we avoided an opportunity to speak for Jesus Christ? Have we found ourselves running away from God? Have we thought that different locations would change our circumstances to witness? Have we fallen asleep on the commission of Jesus Christ ? Have you made promises to the Lord and kept them?
Have you counted the cost of disobedience?
The book of Jonah affords a challenge!
Read:
Day 20
JONAH IN THE BELLY OF A HUGE FISH
Two articles appeared in publications stating that a brown and white shark, weighing about five tons, over twenty five feet in length, was brought to shore by fisherman in Israel. The mouth of the shark was over three feet wide. No such fish has ever been seen in that area. Critics of the account of Jonah will have to admit that there is a fish large enough to swallow a man.
Japanese newspapers reported one fall that the body of a boy thirteen years of age , still clad in a shirt and white linen pants, was found in a two thousand pound shark caught near Nagasaki. This disposes the argument made that there is no fish with a throat large enough to swallow a person.
"The Lord provided a great fish!"[Jonah 1:17] What did Jesus say? For as Jonah was three days and three nights in the belly of a huge fish, so the Son of Man will be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth.
For Jonah, the fish meant deliverance! God had created circumstances that made his escape impossible! Then Jonah prayed from inside the fish. He did what most of us would do. When afflictions come, men cry to God. When in danger, men cry to God. God is indeed a very present help in time of trouble.[Psalms 46:1]
Jonah thought he could disobey God and get away with it. He went down to Joppa, down into a ship, down into the sea, and down into a fish's belly. The way of the backslider is down, down, down, down. The way back is the hard and difficult way. The fish became sick of this backslidden preacher and vomited him up. Even a fish does not appreciate a believer out of fellowship. What humiliation for a prophet! Jonah prayed, and deliverance came. When the backslider begins to pray he is on his way back. Jonah was a backslider out of the will of God.
Is there a lesson? God has a plan for our lives. We can know God's will for our lives. God's Word is His will! We can pray, talk to God! His Holy Spirit will guide us! We need to walk in the path of obedience.
Read:
Day 21
JONAH GOES TO NINEVEH
The call and the commission are still the same. God does not give up! In His gracious way and in His tender mercy, He does His best to make us line up with His will for our lives. God wants our lives to be fruitful. God is patient! God wants us to be channels of blessing.
Jonah had another chance. The word of the Lord came to him a second time. The commission is the same, the place is the same and the message is the same. There is no blessing apart from the will of God.
Are we willing to do His will? From the front fly leaf of one of my Bibles are these words: Dear Lord, anything, anytime, anywhere!
Jonah is on his way! He had come to the point of obedience, and obedience stirs to action. Jonah is very sure that this is what God wanted him to do. God never sends a man out alone! God was with him and also gave him the message. The messenger and the message go together.[3:4] Jonah is walking through the city streets crying out for all to hear. Judgement was to come!
When God has a man set aside for a great task, He begins to work. God was speaking to the people of Nineveh. The wickedness of Nineveh was great! Judgement was to come!
God is merciful! Mercy means that God does not give us what we deserve. Grace means that God gives us what we do not deserve. God has no pleasure in the death of the wicked. Do I take any pleasure in the death of the wicked? declares the Sovereign LORD. Rather, am I not pleased when they turn from their ways and live? (Ezekiel 18:23)
Jonah's message struck home [v5]. The people of Nineveh believed God, proclaimed a fast, put on sackcloth from the greatest of them to the least of them. There were no exceptions in Nineveh, all were guilty and all needed to repent. When God's word strikes home we come to see our sinfulness. What we need in our day is repentance, genuine repentance. Nineveh gave up their evil ways and their violence.
When did you last cry to God for mercy? Our nation today needs revival and repentance.
Would you read:
Repent and be converted, be saved from all your sin!
Read:
Day 22
JONAH'S ANGER AT THE
LORD'S COMPASSION
God had mercy upon the city of Nineveh. God has no pleasure in the death of the wicked. Do I take any pleasure in the death of the wicked? declares the Sovereign LORD. Rather, am I not pleased when they turn from their ways and live?
God loves us with an everlasting love. Some men have been defiant in the presence of God, and God did not strike them dead. An atheist, blaspheming in a certain market place, challenged God to show His power by striking him dead within five minutes. The five minutes elapsed, and following the tense delay the man spoke to his audience,"What did I tell you?" An old lady standing by asked if he had any children. Then the lady said,"If one of your children handed you a knife and said, 'Kill me Daddy' would you do it?" "Why no!" came the reply, I love them too much." "That is exactly why God didn't strike you dead, He loves you too much," said the lady.
Now Jonah is displeased! He had brought the message of judgement upon the city and he sees that God did not destroy the city. Jonah wanted to see the city overthrown. Jonah begins to murmur. God had another lesson ready for him. Jonah is not like Abraham who prayed for Sodom and Gomorrah.[Genesis 18:16-33]
Abraham had prayed that God might deliver the wicked cities but God had to punish them. How different! Jonah preached and sits back wanting to see the city destroyed and God spares them. God reproves Jonah for his attitude. Jonah is complacent and comfortable in the shade of a vine. Jonah is glad for his shelter. Then God strikes home the lesson. He prepares a worm, destroys the vine and allows the sun to blaze upon his head. I can hear God say, "You felt sorry for yourself and the vine; you did nothing to make it grow; it sprang up overnight and died overnight, should I not feel sorry for these people? Why were you so self-satisfied and self-centered?" I am sure Jonah was more concerned about the souls of men from that day on.
Do we need to ask from time to time. "What is our attitude toward the wickedness around us?" Should we not have a heart of compassion?
Read:
Day 23
AMBASSADORS FOR CHRIST
Christianity is relevant! Jesus Christ is relevant! We are here to present Christ by life and by lip! Christ is more than a biography of one who lived in history. Christ is contemporary! He is here now!
What is an ambassador? An ambassador is a representative of his Sovereign in an alien land. We are citizens of another kingdom walking around in this world. Our primary citizenship is in heaven; we belong to two worlds. We are representatives of Jesus Christ. We are to talk to people about Christ.
What is an ambassador? An ambassador represents his country. It is like a little bit of Canada in another country. An ambassador does not express his own opinions or ideas; he will say what his Sovereign wants him to say. He speaks with the authority of the country he represents.
What is an ambassador? An ambassador has direct access to his Sovereign. This means involvement! He is involved with the Word of God and prayer. He stands in direct relation with his Sovereign. He is an authority because he is involved with Jesus Christ. He has access to the throne of grace and that brings God very near.
What is an ambassador? An ambassador is motivated by one primary passion; to be true to his Sovereign. In an alien land he is prone to be involved with this world. Many times he may fail to represent his Sovereign Lord. He can become so involved with the material that he fails to be true.
Have we been true to the heavenly kingdom to which we belong? Would you read 2 Kings 5 and discover a young girl from Israel who was an ambassador?
Read:
Day 24
A CHRISTIAN'S RELATIONSHIP TO THE WORLD
They are not of the world, even as I am not of it. (John 17:16)
In the world but not of the world. The believers are given to Christ out of the world.(v6) The world is under the control of the evil one.(1John 5:19)
The world is coddled by the illusions and guided by the false principles of the god of this world. The believers have in spirit been lifted out of the world. Believers are established in Christ, who is our righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. They are not of the world, even as Christ is not of it.
In this high priestly prayer Jesus is praying for the protection of believers.(v11,15) Believers will be hated by the world.(v14) There was no hatred until He had given them the word. The word does cut across the paths of those who are walking contrary to God's way. The worldly wise cannot receive the precious things of God. The man without the Spirit does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him, and he cannot understand them, because they are spiritually discerned.
To those whose hearts are filled with the love of God are not concerned about how much they are hated. God is able to keep!
The Lord Jesus saved us for a purpose! As you sent me into the world, I have sent them into the world. (John 17:18)
Those sent by Him will be equipped by Him. He sends no one out alone! We have His promised presence! The Son has given Himself as freely to us as the Father gave Himself to the Son, that His great love might triumph in and through us.
Have you noticed the petitions in John 17?
1.Glorify your Son v1,5.
2.Protection for the disciples v9,11.
3.Clean through the word v17.
4.Those who will believe through preaching v20.
5.For complete unity v23.
Does a song come to your mind? "I pray that they all may be one".
Read
Day 25
PRAYER IS IMPORTANT!
Prayer is important as breathing to the body. Prayer is the Christians vital breath. Prayer is talking to God. The Bible is God talking to us. Why do we pray? What does prayer do? Prayer brings us near to God. God's methods are still men; men mighty in prayer. E.M.Bounds said,"Prayer to God the noblest exercise, the loftiest effort of man; would to God we did more prayerful praying."
We need to cultivate the spirit of prayer. Thou hast given him his heart's desire, and hast not withheld the request of his lips. (Psalms 21:2)
I have always enjoyed that verse. That is the nature of prayer -"hearts desire".
Prayer includes praise and thanksgiving, petition and intercession, as well as confession. Some of the essentials to prevailing prayer are:
Calling upon Him in truth [Psalms 145:18];
Simplicity-not babbling like pagans [Matthew 6:7];
Persistence-pray and not give up
Believing
Some of the hindrances are:
Iniquity in the heart [Psalms 66:18];
Wilful disobedience [Proverbs 28:9];
Selfishness [James 4:3];
An unforgiving spirit [Matthew 8:35]
The lack of faith [Hebrews 11:6].
Faith shares the omnipotence it dares to trust!
Looking at Psalm 143 we may see the heart that gets answers to prayer:
A heart that is dismayed v4.
A heart that is thirsty v6.
A heart that is fainting v7.
A heart that is trusting v8.
A heart that is teachable v10.
A heart that is willing to be led v10b.
A heart of a servant v12.
We learn so much from David. He knows God to be faithful and righteous. His thirst for God is deep and desirous. His prayer is simple; show me, rescue me, teach me and lead me v 8-10.
Prayer is the souls sincere desire, Unuttered or expressed, The motion of a hidden fire That trembles in the breast.
Prayer is the burden of a sigh, The falling of a tear, The upward glancing of an eye When none but God is near.
Read:
Day 26
DANIEL, A MAN OF PURPOSE
"Character is what you are when you are alone!"
The life of Daniel affords a real challenge to anyone in any age. Daniel is among the captives taken to Babylon by King Nebuchadnezzar during the siege of Jerusalem. We know nothing about his parents; but judging from his character as a lad, he must have been nurtured in a God-fearing home; for the soundest of principles of life had been formed early.
It does our hearts good to meet young people who have a well balanced personality. In many places of the world today we find young people falling by the wayside; for in many places and instances we stand or else we fall. A personal knowledge of Jesus Christ is a mighty safeguard for city life or anywhere else. Testing times will come, and they do come everyday. Testing times are needed for our moral and spiritual development.
In the account of Daniel, the king's command was to select blameless, skillful and wise youths to be students at the Royal College; then to stand in the king's palace. It was a three year course. They were to learn the tongue of the Chaldeans. The Chaldeans were the politicians, philosophers, theologians and teachers of the nation. What an opportunity for a young, bright, hopeful man! Among them were Daniel and his three friends.
They were assigned to a daily amount of food and wine from the king's table. The worldly man sees no difficulty here, rather a grand chance to attain honour and earthly glory; but it is very different with the man who is in abiding fellowship with God. Here is where Daniel took his stand. He purposed in his heart not to defile himself with food offered to idols. This in our day would be called "narrow-mindedness" and "puritanical bigotry". That man is of little value for God who is not able to stand against popular opinion. May God help us to have determination and purpose in our lives!
God made Daniel to find favour with those around him. He was faithful! Faith in God and plain fare brought victory for both body and soul. They forwent the king's fare and received the favour of God. Godliness is profitable! The wisdom that profited Daniel was not found in the schools of the learned, but in the closet of communion with the God of heaven. Dare to be a Daniel, dare to stand alone; dare to have a purpose firm, dare to make it known.
Read:
Day 27
VINE, BRANCHES & FRUIT
Jesus is the True Vine! He was true to God, true to His own nature and true to the sons of men. We are the branches! Those who are in Him bear fruit.
The theme of John 15 is ABIDING! The NIV uses the word REMAIN. That word is found at least ten times in the first eleven verses. The theme is abiding; the result fruit bearing. Having placed your faith in Jesus Christ, then you are a branch. There is a command to remain. Remain in me, and I will remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me. (John 15:4)
Apart from Jesus Christ there is no fruit.``I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. (John 15:5)
God has the right to look for fruit.
What is the fruit? It is the very character of Christ! We are to let the very life of Christ flow through us. The apostle Paul had this goal continually. My little children, of whom I travail in birth again until Christ be formed in you, (Galatians 4:19)
We need to be open to the word of God. The word has a cleansing effect v3. The trimming results is more fruit v2. The riches of the grace of God are seen here as making the fruitful more fruitful. What is the word like? 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. (Hebrews 4:12)
We are the true disciples of Christ when His character is manifest in our lives. What the sap of the vine is to the branch, the Spirit of Christ is to the believers. The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.
When the Spirit has full control of our lives the characteristics of Christ will appear. The condition of fruitfulness is seen in abiding. The results of abiding are answers to prayer v7, the Father's glory v 8, and the Father's joy v11.
The life lived in Christ, and for Him, is the only God-glorifying life!
Read:
Day 28
LAW AND GRACE
When did you last read: And God spoke all these words: ``I am the LORD your God, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery. ``You shall have no other gods before me. ``You shall not make for yourself an idol in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below. You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God, punishing the children for the sin of the fathers to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me, but showing love to a thousand [generations] of those who love me and keep my commandments. ``You shall not misuse the name of the LORD your God, for the LORD will not hold anyone guiltless who misuses his name. ``Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. Six days you shall labour and do all your work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the LORD your God. On it you shall not do any work, neither you, nor your son or daughter, nor your manservant or maidservant, nor your animals, nor the alien within your gates. For in six days the LORD made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, but he rested on the seventh day. Therefore the LORD blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy. ``Honour your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the LORD your God is giving you. ``You shall not murder. ``You shall not commit adultery. ``You shall not steal. ``You shall not give false testimony against your neighbour. ``You shall not covet your neighbour's house. You shall not covet your neighbour's wife, or his manservant or maidservant, his ox or donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbour.''
Is there nothing in the divine character of God but stern requirements and prohibitions? If this is true, God is law, instead of, God is love! Bless His name, there is more in His heart than could ever be wrapped up in the ten commandments. If you want to see what God is like take a good look at Jesus Christ. The law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ. The law serves to reveal sin. The law shows us the need for a Saviour. There is no way we could keep the Law. For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith-and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God-not by works, so that no-one can boast. (Ephesians 2:8-9)
Read:
Day 29
ARE UNBELIEVERS REALLY LOST?
There seems a tendency in us to indulge in the wishful thinking that the unbelieving souls who die without Christ are not lost because they lacked the necessary opportunity to hear and accept the gospel. The command of Christ was and is " Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature". (Mark 16:15)
\Would Christ have us waste time, money and effort in winning non-believers to Himself if heaven were just as sure to them without hearing the good news? Paul tells us something about the unbelievers. The wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of men who suppress the truth by their wickedness, since what may be known about God is plain to them, because God has made it plain to them. For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities-his eternal power and divine nature-have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse.
Just as they have no excuse for not knowing, so we have no excuse for not telling if we know. We notice that the unbelievers are unbelievers purely as the result of their own choice and action. For although they knew God, they neither glorified him as God nor gave thanks to him, but their thinking became futile and their foolish hearts were darkened. Although they claimed to be wise, they became fools and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images made to look like mortal man and birds and animals and reptiles. (Romans 1:21-23)
This is the primary explanation for the countless idols they worship. Unbelievers are lost and will continue to be lost until we bring them to a saving knowledge of our loving Saviour. We need to go, give and pray! A poem graced the platform of the tabernacle at the Prairie Bible Institute.
Is there a soul who died, who died because of me,
Forever shut away from heaven and from Thee,
Because I tightly clutched my little earthly store,
Nor sent Thy messengers unto some distant shore.
We need to be involved; to move forward in God's plan to win the lost. We need to make every effort to sow the Seed, the Word of God. Perhaps God has placed you beside someone at work, in the hospital, in the neighbourhood and many times even in your family circle.
Go with 2 Peter 3:9 today!
Read:
Day 30
THE BATTLE IS THE LORD'S
The battle is the Lord's and we are in it! Israel's conflict began when they stood in the full power of redemption. Until they met Amalek, they had nothing to do. All the previous conflict had been between Jehovah and the enemy. They had but to "stand still" and see the mighty arm of God fight for them and enjoy the fruits of victory.
The battle of Amalek with Israel has some lessons for us to learn. The battle begins when we receive Jesus Christ as our personal Saviour. We have an enemy! There is a conflict! However, the believer can exclaim, But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. (1 Corinthians 15:57)
No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. (Romans 8:37)
Amalek stands before us as the type of the flesh, the old man, the carnal mind. The flesh exists in the believer; the old man creeps up from time to time. We are to put off the old man and put on the new.
Sin shall not be your master.
The word is,"Do not let sin reign in your mortal body." We do not have to obey our evil desires.
The Christian life is a battle! There is conflict! It is true that Jesus forgives us all our sin, but we must make things right where we have wronged someone. There is restitution to be made sometimes. Many times we need to ask for forgiveness and that is not easy. The battle is real! We stand in victory in Christ! The assurance of victory should be as complete as the sense of forgiveness, seeing both alike are founded upon the great fact that Jesus died and rose again. The death of Christ answers all the claims of God in reference to our sins. His resurrection becomes the spring of power in all the details of the conflict. He died for us, and now He lives in us! The former gives us peace, the latter gives us power. Prayer is power!
Can you picture yourself on top of the hill with Moses? [Exodus 17:11]
The hands of our great Intercessor can never hang down! His intercession never fluctuates. Therefore he is able to save completely those who come to God through Him, because He always lives to intercede for them. (Hebrews 7:25)
Christ is at the right hand of God interceding for us.[Romans 8:34]
Sense the victory! Moses built an altar and called it The LORD is my Banner.
We will shout for joy when you are victorious and will lift up our banners in the name of our God. May the LORD grant all your requests.
Read:
Day 31
THE GREAT CHANGE-PSALM 51
The penitential language of this Psalm is always appropriate on the lips of a soul passing out of the agonies of conscious guilt, into the joy of forgiving grace.
Here we have deep and real confession. There is no attempt to cover it up. He is conscious that his secret sin was an open insult to the name and character of God.
God desires truth in the inward parts v6. He feels keenly that God looks on the heart. Nothing but the mercy of God can meet his case v1. He pleads for cleansing from sin v2. The remedy must be as thorough as the disease. The remedy would not be perfect that only dealt with past sins and present guilt; the heart which is deceitful and wicked must be changed. The pure heart is a new creation. David prays for a pure heart v10. With the new heart comes the new spirit.
David prays for the restoration of joy v12. With indwelling sin there is no joy. Sin brings sorrow! There is joy in salvation, a joy that should never be lost. Although we have had the cleansing of His blood, we still need the power of His Spirit to keep us from falling. There is power in the blood!
What a wonderful change in my life has been wrought since Jesus came into my heart. David sees himself teaching others. He sees sinners turning to God v13. When, by experience we have learned to walk in God's ways, we have something to tell and something to teach. David sees himself as a vessel that God can use to speak and sing His praise v14-15. A broken and a contrite heart God will not despise v17.
God's infallible cure for the guilt and the pollution of sin is the blood of Jesus Christ. Trust in the saving keeping power of the Lord Jesus Christ. There is hope and there is deliverance! So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed. (John 8:36)
Read: