What do I do when the wicked prosper?

Scripture

Psalm 73:28

28 But as for me, how good it is to be near God! I have made the Sovereign LORD my shelter, and I will tell everyone about the wonderful things you do.

Observation

The context of this Psalm is the writer struggled with "why do the wicked prosper".  He was trying to live a godly life but his life was a struggle.  He looked at the ungodly and their lives seemed on the outside to be wonderful and worry free.  He believed that his effort was worthless.  Then he went into the sanctuary and saw life from God's perspective.  He ended the Psalm with this verse. "As for me...."

1. It is good to be near God.

My life is nothing with out the presence of God.  No amount of worldly riches can replace being near to my Father.

2. God is my shelter.

I will experience difficulties in life and at times may suffer but God is my shelter, my refuge, my hiding place.  I find my indentity and security in him not in my accomplishments or possessions.

3. I will proclaim.

I will tell everyone of his wonderful deeds.  I will not be silent God is good all the time.  He has done great things for me and I will tell others of them.

Application

1. Do not let the prosperity of the wicked to cause me to doubt God's faithfulness.

God is faithful.  He will keep his word, all of his promises are yes and amen.

2. Pursue God's presence.

That is where joy and contentment are found.  Being with Jesus makes persecution, suffering, and sacrifice worth it.

3. When I struggle run to Jesus, not away from him.

He is my shelter.  He is my safe place.

4. Be a witness.

Tell your friends, family, neighbors, and co-workers about Jesus. Be prepared to give an answer for the hope that you have.

Prayer

Thank you that you are there for me when I have questions, am struggling, or don't see life correctly.  You are not threatened by my questions, you are not insecure, but you are my loving Father that gently corrects me.  You enable me to have the right perspective on life and on you.

Love it, Learn it, Live it

Scripture

Deuteronomy 17: 18-20

“When he sits on the throne as king, he must copy for himself this body of instruction on a scroll in the presence of the Levitical priests. 19 He must always keep that copy with him and read it daily as long as he lives. That way he will learn to fear the LORD his God by obeying all the terms of these instructions and decrees. 20 This regular reading will prevent him from becoming proud and acting as if he is above his fellow citizens. It will also prevent him from turning away from these commands in the smallest way. And it will ensure that he and his descendants will reign for many generations in Israel.”

Observation

This passage emphasizes the importance of the Word of God. One of the requiremente for the king of Israel was to write a copy of the law for himself.  He was to write it not have someone else do it.  Then he was to read it daily and do it, there was knowledge and obedience.  The result of reading and obeying God's word was the fear of the Lord.  I believe that when we live God's word we will see that it works and that will develop an awe in us.  We will be like the disciples who said even the wind and the waves obey his command.  They were in awe of Jesus.  When I learn and live God's word, it will develop in me a sense of awe, fear, and wonder.

Application

1. Love it.

I will never read it until I love it.  God build into me a love for the Bible, the Word of God.

2. Learn it

Read, study, and mediate on God's Word.  Make it a major part of my everyday life.

3. Live it.

Application is as important as knowledge.  I have to be more than a hearer but also a doer.  

Prayer

Father, develop in me a love and respect for the Bible.  May I be a lifelong learner of your word and may I put into practice.  May I live out your word everyday.

What does the Bible say about the poor?

Scripture

Deuteronomy 15: 7-11

“But if there are any poor Israelites in your towns when you arrive in the land the LORD your God is giving you, do not be hard- hearted or tightfisted toward them. 8 Instead, be generous and lend them whatever they need. 9 Do not be mean- spirited and refuse someone a loan because the year for canceling debts is close at hand. If you refuse to make the loan and the needy person cries out to the LORD , you will be considered guilty of sin. 10 Give generously to the poor, not grudgingly, for the LORD your God will bless you in everything you do. 11 There will always be some in the land who are poor. That is why I am commanding you to share freely with the poor and with other Israelites in need.

Observation

1. God commands me to be generous with the poor.  I have a tendency to become skeptical and cynical towards the poor.  I wonder why they do not have a job or are they spending their money correctly.  I can be very judgmental.  Even if I am right the Bible teaches me to be a giver, to help the needy, and to be generous.  I can be wise in my giving but I cannot develop a hard heart.  Because some people are lazy and may try to take advantage of me is no reason not to help those who are genuinely in need.  Besides if I give with a right heart and do the best I can to be discerning, God will take care of it.  I give with a clean conscience.

2. God promises to bless me when I give generously with a right heart.

He person I give to may not be appreciative but God keeps count and he will reward me.  God will get it to me if he can get it through me.

Application

1. Tithe faithfully

2. Give to advance God's kingdom

3. Give to help the poor

Prayer

This is all about my heart. Make my heart like yours.  My Father is a generous giver who loves to bless his children.  I want to be like that. I want to be a giver.  Make my life a blessing to others.

Priority of Proclamation

Scripture

Luke 8: 37-39

So Jesus returned to the boat and left, crossing back to the other side of the lake. 38 The man who had been freed from the demons begged to go with him. But Jesus sent him home, saying, 39 “No, go back to your family, and tell them everything God has done for you.” So he went all through the town proclaiming the great things Jesus had done for him.

Observation

1. The man wanted to follow Jesus, the one who delivered him from a legion of demons.

2. Jesus turned him away.

3. Jesus instructed him to go back and witness to his family, friends, and village.

4. The man obeyed. He proclaimed the great things Jesus had done for him.

Application

This passage emphasized the priority of proclamation and witness.  My goal is not to just live overseas but to be a witness, to tell others about Jesus.  In America there is a movement to make our faith private not public. The tolerance movement, pressure at work, and the media all try to get believers not to share their faith, not to proclaim. That is a scheme of the devil to silence the church.  We must proclaim at home and abroad.  We cannot be ashamed or silent. We must take faith risks and be willing to suffer if necessary but we cannot put our faith in a closet.  We do not hide our light, we let it shine.  

Prayer

Father, give me the courage and boldness to proclaim Jesus regardless of the cost.

Faith in the midst of suffering

Scripture

Psalm 69: 29-30

I am suffering and in pain. Rescue me, O God, by your saving power. 30 Then I will praise God’s name with singing, and I will honor him with thanksgiving.

Observation

1. I am to have faith in the midst of suffering.

David was suffering and in pain but he believed that God would rescue and save him.

2. True faith is not that you will never experience pain but that you continue to believe God in the midst of your suffering .

It does not take much faith to trust God in the good times.  Faith is proven in the middle of a need.  Having a need positions me to receive a miracle.  I believe God in the midst of my pain and suffering.

4. Faith does not work like a mathematical equation or like a microwave.

My faith does not manipulate God into action. It is not always instant and God does not always work in ways I understand.  But He does work on my behalf.  He keeps His promises. He is faithful.

Application

1. I can always trust God.

In the midst of pain and suffering, I can trust him.

2. Keep my eyes on the author and finisher of my faith.

I can choose what I focus on: my pain or my God.  David throughout the Psalms declared his faith in a God in the midst of his trials. I can do the same.

3. Don't listen to the naysayers.

There will be people who give bad advice and try to undermine my faith.  Don't list to them, fill my mind with God 's word.

Prayer

Father, I am thankful that you are my refuge and strongtower.  I can come to you when I hurt and am afraid.  You are always there for me.  I come to you today, asking for your intervention in my life.  I trust you. I love you.  Thank you.

Why did God choose you?

Scripture

Deuteronomy 7: 7-8

“The LORD did not set his heart on you and choose you because you were more numerous than other nations, for you were the smallest of all nations! 8 Rather, it was simply that the LORD loves you, and he was keeping the oath he had sworn to your ancestors. That is why the LORD rescued you with such a strong hand from your slavery and from the oppressive hand of Pharaoh, king of Egypt.

Observation

This verse is good to help me to remember to humble myself.  It also reminds me that grace is to receive blessings I do not deserve.  I am just like the Israelites, God did not choose me because of my goodness, talents, or value.  I was a nobody and there was nothing good in me.  He chose me because:

1. He loved me.

God loved the nobody, the sinner.  He chose to love me because He is love.

2. His character.

God choose me because He is good and benevolent.  He is full of grace and mercy.  He chose me based upon His character not mine.

Application

My response should be:

1. worship

I should worship Him because He chose me.  He is worthy of all glory, honor, and praise.

2. Humility 

Pride has no place in me because I did nothing to earn or deserve my salvation.  I lower myself, humble myself before an awesome God.

3. Service

I should always be motivated to serve my God and His kingdom.  I owe him at least that much.  My service should flow out of a heart filled with gratitude.

4. Proclamation

I must tell everyone of his goodness to me because it is available to them.  Witness is not an obligation but an opportunity.

Prayer

My heart is filled with gratefulness.  You have been so good to me.  You have earned my worship and loyalty. I love you.  Thank you for choosing me.

The pursuit of wisdom

Scripture

Luke 7:35

But wisdom is shown to be right by the lives of those who follow it. NLT

Wisdom (God’s way, v. 29) is justified (shown to be right) by all her children (the followers of John and Jesus).  ESV study Bible

Observation

Wisdom is the quality or state of being wise; knowledge of what is true or right coupled with just judgment as to action; sagacity, discernment, or insight.

1. There is evidence to prove the existence of wisdom.  For example when you are in a meeting discussing an issue, all of sudden someoe speaks a word of wisdom into the situation, and everyone else says, "that's it, that is the answer."  Wisdom is proven, justified.

2. Also I know someone is wise by the way they live not just what they say.  Wisdom is proven by the evidence of the life they are living.

Application

The Proverbe teaches me to pursue wisdom.  I pursue wisdom by:

1. Reading

Not just for pleasure but for learning.

2. Spending time with wise people

Respect those who are older than me, have a teachable spirit.

3. Listening to podcast

Again not just for pleasure but for learning

4. Wisdom is a spirit.

The book of Ephesians speaks of the spirit of wisdom and revelation.

5. Wisdom is a gift of the Spirit.  1 Corinthians 12

6. The Book of James teaches that when I lack wisdom, I am to ask God for it and He will give it liberally.

Prayer

I ask that you make me a man of wisdom.  Give it to me as a gift and produce it in my life.  May I have the wisdom of God and not just the wisdom of man.  May I be a lifelong learner.  May I apply the knowledge you have given me to problems and situations I face.  Make me a man of wisdom.

I can trust God's heart even when I do not understand my circumstances

Scripture

Deuteronomy 2:30

"But King Sihon of Heshbon refused to allow us to pass through, because the LORD your God made Sihon stubborn and defiant so he could help you defeat him, as he has now done."

Observation

This verse is a great illustration of the sovereignity and providence of God.

God is the creator of the universe and he guides, protects, and provides for us.  Here we see that God moved on the heart of a king.  God is in complete control, nothing happens outside of his sovereign will.  At times this is hard to understand because of the existence of evil.  If God is in control then why does evil exists?   The answer is found in the fall of man, free will, and sin but that is not what I want to focus on.

I find comfort in God's sovereignity and providence, even in the events of my life I cannot explain.  It helps me to know that nothing can happen to me that God does not allow.  I may not understand my circumstances but I can know God's heart.  I can take comfort in him, rest in him, run to him. He is my refuge, my strongtower, my place of safety.

Application

1. Trust God's heart even when I do not understand my circumstances.

2. Never doubt the goodness of God.

Psalm 119:68 says "You are good and do good; teach me Your statutes."

3. God's silence does not indicate His absence.

Just because I do not see evidence of the activity of God does not mean he is not working in the background.  Evidence of this is found in the accounts of Joseph and Esther.

Prayer

I place my trust in you.  I know you are at work in my life and in the world events that surround me.  I am safe in your arms.  I can move forward in faith.  You are in control. You are taking good care of me and mine.

Sowing and Reaping

Scripture

Proverbs 11:24-25

Give freely and become more wealthy; be stingy and lose everything. 25 The generous will prosper; those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed.  NLT

There is one who scatters, yet increases; and there is one who withholds more than is right, but it leads to poverty. The generous soul will be made rich, and he who waters will be watered also himself. MEV

Observation

God's economy is not the world's economy. The world says earn more and save more is the path to wealth.  The world is materialistic and believes the more stuff you have is what makes a person wealthy.  God's economy is different.

1. He who scatters or gives freely will increase.

Have a need sow a seed as been abused but there is truth in it. I will reap what I sow and I will reap to the extent I sow.

2. If I withhold more than is right or if there is a need I have the ability to meet but choose not to, I will lose everything.

This is a heart issue not a financial one.  God does not expect me to give what I do not have, that is impossible.  He does expect me to do what I can.

3. The same principle is true in relationships.

4. The one who refreshes others will be refreshed.

Sowing and reaping is true in every part of my life.  If  I sow love, will reap love.  If I sow kindness I will reap kindness.  Want a friend be a friend.

Application

1. Sow and give in faith.  

Reaping is not always immediate.  There is a gap in time between when I give and when I will receive. I have to be patient.

2. Be on watch

Sometimes I sow in one area and will reap in another.  Don't have blinders on but look for the opportunities that God makes available.  

3. Give without expecting anything in return.

The principle of sowing and reaping is not to manipulate God or force his hand.  I give out of love and obedience. I leave the reaping in God's hands.

4. Desire what is in God's handmore than what is in my hand.

I believe God has my best interest at heart.   He is my provider and will take good care of me.

Prayer

I trust you and believe you will provide for me and take care of me and my family.  Produce in me a generous heart.  I want to be a giver and not a hoarder.  I never want to be stingy or a scrooge but I want to have the nature of my father.  God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten.  May I be like you.

Healthy Habits to reduce stress

Healthy habits can protect you from the harmful effects of stress. Here are 10 positive healthy habits you may want to develop.

1. Talk with family and friends. 
   A daily dose of friendship is great medicine. Call or writer friends and family to share your feelings, hopes and joys and ask them to share theirs.
2. Engage in daily physical activity. 
   Regular physical activity can relieve mental and physical tension. Physically active adults have lower risk of depression and loss of mental functioning. Physical activity can be a great source of pleasure, too. Try walking, swimming, biking or dancing every day.
3. Embrace the things you are able to change. 
   While we may not be able to do some of the things we once enjoyed, we are never too old to learn a new skill, work toward a goal, or love and help others.
4. Remember to laugh. 
   Laughter makes us feel good. Don't be afraid to laugh out loud at a joke, a funny movie or a comic strip, even when we're alone.
5. Give up the bad habits. 
   Too much alcohol, cigarettes or caffeine can increase blood pressure. If you smoke, decide to quit now. 
6. Slow down. 
   Try to "pace" instead of "race." Plan ahead and allow enough time to get the most important things done without having to rush.
7. Get enough sleep. 
   Try to get six to eight hours of sleep each night. If you can't sleep, take steps to help reduce stress and depression. Physical activity also may improve the quality of sleep.
8. Get organized. 
   Use "to do" lists to help you focus on your most important tasks. Approach big tasks one step at a time. For example, start by organizing just one part of your life — your car, desk, kitchen, closet, cupboard or drawer.
9. Practice giving back. 
   Volunteer your time or spend time helping out a friend. Helping others helps you.
10. Try not to worry. 
    The world won't end if your grass isn't mowed or your kitchen isn't cleaned. You may need to do these things, but right now might not be the right time.

Breaking down walls

Scripture

Luke 5: 12-13, 17

In one of the villages, Jesus met a man with an advanced case of leprosy. When the man saw Jesus, he bowed with his face to the ground, begging to be healed. “Lord,” he said, “if you are willing, you can heal me and make me clean.” 13 Jesus reached out and touched him. “I am willing,” he said. “Be healed!” And instantly the leprosy disappeared.

One day while Jesus was teaching, some Pharisees and teachers of religious law were sitting nearby. (It seemed that these men showed up from every village in all Galilee and Judea, as well as from Jerusalem.) And the Lord’s healing power was strongly with Jesus.

Observation

1. The leper recognized Jesus power to heal.

2. He questioned his willingness.  Why?

Leprosy was a social stigma, they were considered unclean. People  were not allowed to touch or interact with them.  Lepers were the ultimate social outcasts.  

So maybe the man considered himself to be unworthy of Jesus, maybe he questioned if Jesus would lower himself to his level.

3. Jesus was willing.

Jesus continually broke down social barriers, with lepers, women, tax collectors, and notable sinners.

4. Jesus healed the leper.

This radically changed his life not only did it bring physical relief and healing but this man was now socially acceptable.  He could touch and be touched.  He could love, be invite to a party.  He could live.

5. Verse 27 has the strange phrase "And the Lord’s healing power was strongly with Jesus." 

What does that mean?  Jesus was operating in the 1 Corinthians 12 gift of healing.  It was through the anointing of the Holy Spirit that Jesus was able to heal.  The same anointing and gift is available to us today.  We cannot say that Jesus healed the sick because he was deity but I cannot.  No, Jesus is our example of ministering to people under the anointing.

Application

1. Be willing to demolish social barriers.

Break down racial, social, sexist, and religious walls.

2. Believe in the power of God to heal.

He can heal broken bodies, hearts, minds, and spirits.

3. Take faith risks.

Pray for the sick, believe for their healing, invite someone to lunch you normally would not invite.  Reach out to people you normally would not reach out to.

Prayer

Break down the walls in my heart.  I can be racists, sexists, and judge people.  I can assume what a people group is like when I don't even know them.  May I love everyone God loves.

But if you say so

March 21, 2015

Scripture

Luke 5:5

“Master,” Simon replied, “we worked hard all last night and didn’t catch a thing. But if you say so, I’ll let the nets down again.” NLT

Simon answered Him, “Master, we have worked all night and have caught nothing. But at Your word I will let down the net.” MEV

Observation

1. Peter said we have fished all night and we have caught nothing.  We are professional fishermen, we have done this all of our lives.  You are a carpenter, you know nothing about fishing. But if you say so or at your word I will do it.

2. Peter acted on the word of Jesus and he caught a miraculous catch.

Application

Sometimes Jesus will tell us to do something that does not make sense, it is not logical or rational.  At that moment we will know how much faith we really have. It is a test, Jesus was testing Peter and today he tests us.

1. I must take Jesus at his word.

I do not try to rationalize or test his word.  I act in faith.

2.  Obedience is the only proper response.

I prove I have faith in Jesus when I obey him.  What I say does not truly reveal my heart, my actions do.

3. God tests me to reveal to me my level of faith.

He already knows but I don't.  The heart can be deceitful above all things.  I may think I have great faith but in reality I do not.  

4. Faith comes by hearing the word of God.

I saturated my mind with his words.

5. Faith comes by experiencing God.

I really know God has the healer when I experience his healing.  I know him as the provider when I am in need and he provides.

Prayer

I know my heart is deceitful.  I know I can fool myself into believing I am more of a man of a God than I really am.  Reveal to me my true level of faith.  Produce faith in me.  May I be a person who says "But if you say so I will do it."

Being full of and led by the Holy Spirit

Scripture

Luke 4:1

Then Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan River. He was led by the Spirit in the wilderness

observation

This passage emphasis the ministry of the Holy Spirit in the life of Jesus.  Jesus was:

1. Full of the Holy Spirit

Jesus in his humanity needed the anointing of the Holy Spirit.  If it is possible to be full of the Holy Spirit then it is possible not to be full.  

2. Led by the Spirit

Jesus did not go to the wilderness on his own but was led, guided by the Spirit.  Again, if it is possible to be led by the Spirit then it is possible not to be.

Jesus was full of and led by the Spirit.

Application

1. Pray in the spirit more

2. Study the Bible

3. Seek God's will before making decisions

4. Lean not on my own understanding

5. Trust and believe in him

Prayer

I ask for a fresh filling of your spirit today.  I ask that you will lead and guide me.  I ask that you give me the faith and courage to obey.

God will act on your behalf

Scripture

Psalm 62: 1, 5

1 I wait quietly before God, for my victory comes from him.

5 Let all that I am wait quietly before God, for my hope is in him.

Observation

1. Wait quietly before God.

Don't be in a rush, don't defend yourself or declare your rights.  Be quiet.  Wait for God to act.  Expect God to act.

2. My victory and hope comes from Him.

I cannot do this.  I cannot hope in myself, other people, or an organization.  They all fail, myself most of all, but God never fails.  He is true and trustworthy.  He is a victorious, glorious God.

Application

1. Expect God to act

I will wait quietly on him if I really believe he will act.  Acting on my part is unbelief, I take matters into my own hands because I do not believe God is going to do anything about the matter.  So I defend myself, try to manipulate circumstances, or proclaim my rights and contributions.

2. Wait on him

Don't get in a hurry because God's timing is not my timing.  He will act at just the right time.  

Prayer

I do trust you, please do not allow me to act in unbelief and get in a hurry or do something foolishly.  May I wait on you, sit in your presence quietly, believing in your deliverance.

Effective Leadership

Scripture

Numbers 27:15-20

15 Then Moses said to the LORD , 16 “O LORD , you are the God who gives breath to all creatures. Please appoint a new man as leader for the community. 17 Give them someone who will guide them wherever they go and will lead them into battle, so the community of the LORD will not be like sheep without a shepherd.” 18 The LORD replied, “Take Joshua son of Nun, who has the Spirit in him, and lay your hands on him. 19 Present him to Eleazar the priest before the whole community, and publicly commission him to lead the people. 20 Transfer some of your authority to him so the whole community of Israel will obey him.

Observation

1. Good leaders put the needs and well- being of the people above the needs and desires of the leader.

Moses was a humble man.  It he did not think less of himself, he thought of himself less.   He did not pout when God removed him from leadership, he asked God to appoint another leader.

2. Good leaders provide vision and direction.

Moses desired a leader that would lead, guide, and direct the people.

3.  Good leaders are full of and controlled by the Holy Spirit.

God picked Joshua because he had the spirit in him.

4. Leaders are to be commissioned publicly.

Moses commissioned Joshua in front of the people.  Leadership is public, people are the leaders business.

5. Good leaders have a succession plan.

Moses equipped Joshua to take his place.  Good leaders focus on developing the next generation of leaders.

Application

1. People first.

I am to first of all be a servant of those I lead.

2. Lead

Take the initiative, lead something, fulfill my current responsibilities.

3. Depend on the Holy Spirit

My skills and abilities will fall short because they are inadequate.  I need a fresh filling of the Holy Spirit daily.

4. Invest in younger leaders.

One day I will walk away. I need prepare the next generation to take my place.  

Don't wait too long to leave.  Know when is time, don't wait until someone ask me to step down, go out on my terms.

Prayer

Leadership is a gift of your spirit (Romans 12).  Develop whatever size of leadership gift you have placed in me.  May I be diligent in my leading, may I be pleasing to you.  May if be for your glory and the advancement of your kingdom.

Prayer for my grandchildren

Scripture

Luke 2: 40, 52

There the child grew up healthy and strong. He was filled with wisdom, and God’s favor was on him.

Jesus grew in wisdom and in stature and in favor with God and all the people.

Observation

The four areas of growth for children.  Jesus grew

1. Physically

Jesus grew strong and healthy

2. Mentally

He grew in wisdom, was educated

3. Spiritually

Jesus grew in favor with God.  You can grow in favor,

4. Relationally

Jesus grew in favor with men.  He learned people skills.

Application

Jesus was both fully God and fully man.  That is difficult to understand but it is true.  Even though Jesus was deity, as a child, he had to grow.  He went to school, was physically active, participated in religious worship, and learned how to deal with people.  These are areas that everyone needs to grow in. I must continually be developing my skills in these areas and I need to teach others as well.  Luke 2:52 is a verse I pray over my grandchildren.  I desire for my grandkids to be balanced and fully developed in all four areas.

Prayer

I pray for Ryder, Jase, and Gabe.  May they grow physically, spiritually, mentally, and relationally.

He is faithful and true

Scripture

Numbers 23:19

19 God is not a man, so he does not lie. He is not human, so he does not change his mind. Has he ever spoken and failed to act? Has he ever promised and not carried it through?

Observation

This verse is about the character and sovereignity of God.

1. God is not a man.

I canot project human weakness upon him.  

2. God does not lie.

3. He does not change his mind.

4. He always keeps his word.

5. He always fulfills his promises.

Application

This verse is in the context of a very confusing passage of scripture.  I am glad it is this way becauses sometimes life is confusing.  If I judge God's character by my circumstances or feelings, I will get it wrong.  I have to learn about God' character from his word.  His word says he does not lie or change his mind.  He always does what he says he will do, he keeps every promise.  This is my God!  He is faithful and true.

Prayer

Thank you for revealing to me who you are.  I can trust you. I can believe and act on your promises. I can count on you.  You are faithful, honest, and true.

Power of the Cross

Scripture

Numbers 21:6-9

So the LORD sent poisonous snakes among the people, and many were bitten and died. 7 Then the people came to Moses and cried out, “We have sinned by speaking against the LORD and against you. Pray that the LORD will take away the snakes.” So Moses prayed for the people. 8 Then the LORD told him, “Make a replica of a poisonous snake and attach it to a pole. All who are bitten will live if they simply look at it!” 9 So Moses made a snake out of bronze and attached it to a pole. Then anyone who was bitten by a snake could look at the bronze snake and be healed!

Observation

1. God is righteous and just.  He will discipline rebellion.

2. Moses prayed for the people.

His response to their sin and God's judgment was intercession. I cannot underestimate the power of intercession.

3. God provided healing.

This is a wonderful picture of the cross. Jesus was lifted up on a pole and all men who look to him are healed.

Application

1. Do not take my sins lightly.  God will discipline those he loves.

2. Intercede for family, friends, and nations.

3. Take my sins to Jesus, look to him for forgiveness, cleansing, transformation, and healing.

Prayer

Father, I have failed you so many times, my sins are wickedness before you and I deserve judgment.  I ask for mercy and grace. I look to you for forgiveness, cleansing, and healing.

Obedience over methods

Scripture

Numbers 20:6-11

Moses and Aaron turned away from the people and went to the entrance of the Tabernacle, [*] where they fell face down on the ground. Then the glorious presence of the LORD appeared to them, 7 and the LORD said to Moses, 8 “You and Aaron must take the staff and assemble the entire community. As the people watch, speak to the rock over there, and it will pour out its water. You will provide enough water from the rock to satisfy the whole community and their livestock.” 9 So Moses did as he was told. He took the staff from the place where it was kept before the LORD . 10 Then he and Aaron summoned the people to come and gather at the rock. “Listen, you rebels!” he shouted. “Must we bring you water from this rock?” 11 Then Moses raised his hand and struck the rock twice with the staff, and water gushed out. So the entire community and their livestock drank their fill. 

Observation

1. Once again the people murmured and complained.  It became known as the place of arguing

2. Moses and Aaron went to God and fell on their faces.

3. God appeared to them.

4. God said he would provide the water but He would use Moses and Aaron in the process.

5. Moses and Aaron disobeyed God.

They depended on a method, striking the rock, rather than obedience.

6. God still supplied the water but disciplined Moses and Aaron.

Application

1. When faced with a crisis go to God.

2. When God intervenes, he will use you.

3. Methods never replace obedience.

4. God will hold leaders to a higher standard.

Prayer

May my trust be in you and not in methods, strategy,or organizations.  Transform my heart that I may always obey you.  I need you to intervene for me.  Thank you.

God's power at work today

Scripture

Numbers 11:23

Then the LORD said to Moses, “Has my arm lost its power? Now you will see whether or not my word comes true!” (NLT)

And the Lord said to Moses, “Is the hand of the Lord shortened? Now you will see if My word will happen to you or not.” (MEV)

Observation

1. God has not lost any of his power.

The same power that parted the Red Sea, healed the sick, and raised the dead is alive and available today.

2. We will see with our eyes the power of God displayed.

Application

1. Believe

One thing to read about God's power another to experience it.

2. Watch

Don't get so consumed with he mundane that I miss the supernatural.

3. Proclaim

Tell everyone of the good works of Jesus.

Prayer

May I see you power at work today.

He is coming again

scripture

Mark 13:33

And since you don’t know when that time will come, be on guard! Stay alert

(NLT)

Take heed, watch and pray. For you do not know when the time will come. (MEV)

Observation

1. I do not know when Jesus will return

Because of that:

2. Be on guard, take heed

3. Stay alert. Be on watch

4. Pray

Application

1. The soon return of Jesus should have an affect on my life.  It does not cause me to fear but it should be a motivation for me.

2. Because of the soon return of Jesus, I should be alert to what is going on around me and in the world, I should watch for signs of his return and for signs of his working in my midst.

3. I should pray: pray for the lost, pray for an outpouring of his spirit, pray for a harvest, pray for workers

Prayer

Make your return real to me and alive in me.  Make it a motivating factor in my life.

Be a blessing in word and deed

Scripture

Numbers 6:24-26

Then the LORD said to Moses, 23 “Tell Aaron and his sons to bless the people of Israel with this special blessing: 24 ‘May the LORD bless you and protect you. 25 May the LORD smile on you and be gracious to you. 26 May the LORD show you his favor and give you his peace.’

The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make His face to shine upon you, and be gracious unto you; the Lord lift His countenance upon you, and give you peace. 

Observation

How to bless people

1. The lord bless and keep you

2. Make his face shine upon you

3. Be gracious to you

4. Turn his face towards you

5. Give you peace

application

1. Verbally bless God's children

2. Parents verbally bless their children

3. Be a blessing in word and deed

Prayer

Thank you for the days I had to bless my kids before bedtime, those days were sweet. May I continue to bless them verbally, may I be a blessing to your children in both word and deed,  maya I be an encourager, someone who speaks life into people but with truth.  May I be more interested in people's well being than their comfort.

Great is the Lord

Scripture

Psalm 48:1

How great is the LORD , how deserving of praise, in the city of our God, which sits on his holy mountain!

Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised in the city of our God, in His holy mountain.

Observation

Dr. George Wood wrote

"Let us say, “Great is the Lord, and most worthy of praise” not just in “the city of our God, his holy mountain”— but also “in me.” (See v. 1 .) If Jerusalem is an exhibit for His past deliverances, so are we. If God is great within the city of David, then let Him be great in us. Too often we let our problems become large and the Lord, small. Instead of saying, “Great are my trials, difficulties, burdens, or needs”— why not reverse our focus? “Great is my God, great is Jesus’ love for me, great are His provision, His forgiveness and salvation, and the future He has prepared.” A Psalm in Your Heart

Application

1.  Magnify God

2. Minimize my problems

3. Praise God regardless of my circumstances

4. Don't allow what is going outside of me control what is happening inside of me.

Prayer

You are great, you deserve all the praise, all the glory, all the honor.

Hopes & desires fulfilled

Scripture

Proverbs 10:24-25

The fears of the wicked will be fulfilled; the hopes of the godly will be granted. 25 When the storms of life come, the wicked are whirled away, but the godly have a lasting foundation.

The fear of the wicked will come upon him, but the desire of the righteous will be granted. As the whirlwind passes, so is the wicked no more, but the righteous has an everlasting foundation. 

Observation

1. What evil people fear will come upon them.

2. When the storms of life come, the wicked will be no more.

3. The hopes and desires of the Godly will be fulfilled.

4. The righteous will leave a lasting legacy.

Application

1. Character counts

My character will determine my destiny.  

2. Trust God to fulfill my hopes & desires

3. Don't be jealous or envious of the world.

Prayer

I trust you with my hopes & desires.  They do not die, they rest in you.

Build character and integrity in me.  Make me a man of God.

Moving Mountains

Scripture

Mark 11:20-25

The next morning as they passed by the fig tree he had cursed, the disciples noticed it had withered from the roots up. 21 Peter remembered what Jesus had said to the tree on the previous day and exclaimed, “Look, Rabbi! The fig tree you cursed has withered and died!” 22 Then Jesus said to the disciples, “Have faith in God. 23 I tell you the truth, you can say to this mountain, ‘May you be lifted up and thrown into the sea,’ and it will happen. But you must really believe it will happen and have no doubt in your heart. 24 I tell you, you can pray for anything, and if you believe that you’ve received it, it will be yours. 25 But when you are praying, first forgive anyone you are holding a grudge against, so that your Father in heaven will forgive your sins, too.

Observation

1. Have faith in God

Not faith in man, organizations, or faith in faith.  Faith in God means to trust in his character.

2. Speak to the mountain

Faith is released through the tongue.

I must speak out loud not just say it in my mind.  Prayer is verbal, faith is verbal.  Speaking in faith is putting actions to my faith.

3. Must really believe not and doubt in my heart

I believe that God will do what he says he will do.  Doubt is doubting God, his character, his ability and willingness to keep his word.

4. Nothing is impossible with God.

He can move mountains, heal the sick, save the lost, establish his church in the hard places.

5. Keep my heart pure.

Unforgiveness negatively affects my faith.  It is disobedience to God's word and will hinder my prayers.

Application

1. Trust God's character 

2. Forgive quickly 

3. Believe for the impossible

4. Speak to my mountains

Prayer

I ask that you increase my faith, when I read passages like this, I feel I come up short.  I want my reality to match your word.  Do not allow me to dumb down your word but to lift my experience to match your promises.

The blessing of God

Scripture

Proverbs 10:22

The blessing of the LORD makes a person rich, and he adds no sorrow with it.

Observation

God is a God who loves to bless his children.  He is for me not against me.  He has a plan for my victory not my defeat, to bless me not to curse me, for my success not my failure, he is for me not against me.

Application 

1. Trust a God with this move

2. Believe He will bless me in the process

3. There will be no sorrow in it.

Prayer

I trust you completely.

The promise of reward and persecution

Scripture

Mark 10: 29-31

Jesus answered, “Truly I say to you, there is no one who has left a house or brothers or sisters or father or mother or wife or children or fields, for My sake and for the gospel’s sake, who shall not receive a hundred times as much now in this age, houses and brothers and sisters and mothers and children and fields, with persecution, and in the age to come, eternal life. But many who are first will be last, and the last first.” 

Observation

1. Left family, church, home, and possessions.

God ask us to sacrifice, to give up, to move down, to leave, relinquish, to die to self.

2. for my sake and for the sake of the gospel

To sacrifice for anyother reason is insanity and pride.  I let go for my love of Jesus, His glory, and His kingdom.

3 promise: shall receive a hundred times as much now and in heaven.

The promise is for heaven but also for now.  When I die to self and leave, God will reward me with houses, family, friends, etc.

4. Jesus also promises persecution

Persecution is normal in this part of the world.  It is not the exception but is to be expected.

5. Many who are recognized and praised today will be least in heaven.  Those who are last, least now will be rewarded, be first, in heaven.

Application

1. Live a lif of self denial and sacrifice.

2. Expect persecution and suffer well.

3. Believe the promise of Jesus for reward.

Prayer

May I be I loving to leave, be last, suffer, and deny myself but also build my faith that my sacrifice will be rewarded now and in heaven.  May I live the abundant life you have provided for me.