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2009 Devotions

 

January 2009: "Peace"

Week 1: Peace of Mind

Isaiah 26: 3 "YOU will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is fixed on you,
because he trusts in you."

Peace is the absence of conflict and also the ability to cope with it. A
perfect example of peace of mind is the story and or the painting of the
little bird perched in a crevice of the rock high above the ocean. While the
wind storm and waters are raging all around it, the bird is singing as
though the whole world is quiet and at peace.

Dear Readers, We have no promise that we will be free from the storms of
life but we do have the promise from Jesus Christ who is our peace, that we
can have peace of mind. Instead of allowing ourselves to be overcome by our
circumstances we can be over comers by taking all our cares to Jesus and
allowing Him to submerge us in His love and power. His wonderful Holy Spirit
keeps our minds clear so we can see all sides of any situation. There is no
need for God's people to have tunnel vision. Fixing our minds on Him will
allow us to follow where He leads us and expand our territory to include
others who are hungering for His peace.

Father in Heaven, May the New Year find us seeking your wisdom and power. I
ask you to keep our minds clear, focused on you, and help us be over comers.
Amen

 

Week 2: Families at Peace

Psalm 119: 165 "Great peace have they who love your law, and nothing can
make them stumble."

It is said that families who pray together, play together, stay together. I
believe that families who practice obeying the first commandment (Matthew
22:37) will demonstrate a respect for one another that is missing when
individually and as family members we do not strive to "Love God with all
our heart and all our soul and all our mind." We can't keep the second,
"love your neighbor as yourself" unless we are striving to keep the first.

Dear Readers, Living in a family isn't always easy but many times love or
lack of love is the answer. When disagreements come in the family someone
must step up and be the hero: Peacemaker. It is also important to remember
that God will use each personality in the family to witness for Him to those
in the world with like personalities. Parents and siblings should encourage
one another through prayer. Parents must provide guidance so each child can
grow up confident God has a purpose for their life. And begin early to
prepare their hearts and minds for whatever task He calls them to fill.

As family members we need to practice speaking words of kindness to each
other. My dad would not allow my sisters and me to say mean things to each
other. As we grew, our love and respect for one another grew. Today we are
three widows. Love and mutual respect is the tie that binds us together.

Father God, Thank you for your Word. Give us strength to obey you because we
love you with all our heart. Amen

 

Week 3:  Peace in Your Church

 

Ephesians 2: 14-16 "For he himself is our peace, who has made the two one
and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility, by abolishing
in his flesh the law with its commandments and regulations. His purpose was
to create in himself one new man out of the two, thus making peace, and in
this one body to reconcile both of them to God through the cross."

In this writing Paul is talking about how Christ's death on the cross broke
down barriers between Jews and Gentiles in order to reconcile them to each
other and to God. Today the cross of Christ is still at work reconciling
people to one another and to God. Satan, God's enemy, is the author of the
quarrels and disgusting disagreements in churches today.

Dear Readers, Christ finished His work of reconciliation and church
attendees only need to sincerely apologize to one another and speak words of
kindness. When we as worshipers in the church are carrying out our Lords
commission to care for the poor, visit the sick, and make disciples of all
nations there is not time to quarrel among ourselves. So Folks lets get busy
obeying Christ's Great Commission!

Father, help your church be what you intended. Help us give you glory as we
love you, love and forgive each another, and live daily in your peace. Amen

Week 4:  Peace in the World

John 14: 27 "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to
you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be
afraid."

Jesus was promising his disciples a peace that would last not a temporary
delude of satisfaction such as the world offers: reaching personal goals,
purchasing material items, taking a long anticipated vacation or moving into
new upscale homes. Worldly things will bring satisfaction but this is not
the peace our Lord was promising his disciples.

Through our Lord's peace His disciples could endure the sense of loneliness
they felt for Him after He went back to His father. And the persecution they
would endure as they began witnessing regarding their experiences during
their three-year walk with Jesus. The peace He was promising would comfort
and sustain them through His death. His peace would comfort their troubled
hearts and quiet the fear for their own lives. Most of all they feared
failure in continuing their Master's Ministry. However, the peace Jesus
promised would enable them because he was sending His Spirit that would
bring to their memory all things He had taught them and through His Spirit
they would do great and mighty things.

Dear Readers, We are Christ's twenty first century disciples and the peace
He promised is meant for us as we continue His ministry, which we must do.
He promised His disciples He would return and we have that promise today. He
will return perhaps sooner than we can imagine! Are we ready? Have we been
the best we can be? Have we accomplished for Him all we can accomplish? Have
we told our children and the rest of the world how wonderful our Savior is?
If we are to have a world without war we must love the world's people and
win the nations to our Prince of Peace.

Heavenly Father, Help us resolve to begin the new year 2009 with courage and
determination to follow Your leadership into new and critical territories
for Your glory. If you don't call us to GO tell the nations, we will know
you are calling us to stay, pray, and pay! Amen


 

February 2009: "Rest"

Week 1: Rest Through Sleep

Psalm 4:8 "I will lie down and sleep in peace, for you alone, O Lord, make
me dwell in safety."

This psalm of David gives us insight into his life that was anything but
peaceful neither was he always safe from his enemies even at night.
But from his words we understand the importance of sleep in order to rest.

Sleep for busy people is sweet so says Ecclesiastes 5: 12. "The sleep of a
laborer is sweet whether he eats little or much."
 

I can relate to that scenario. When I was a child I worked in the fields
with my family. I had no trouble falling asleep at night. I was physically
tired (the best kind) but sleep was the kind of rest I needed to prepare me
for the hours of work the following day that began at daylight. Out of
necessity we were early to bed people. Our only light after dark was from
kerosene lamps or kerosene lanterns. Feeding and caring for the livestock
was finished before dark or by the lanterns after dark.
We prepared and ate dinner, cleaned the kitchen, and dressed for bed before
dark. If we needed to be up after dark, like during the school year working
on our studies, it was by the light of kerosene lamps.

Dear Readers, The best health sources suggest that adults need to sleep
seven or eight hours a day, babies twelve hours, children need ten to twelve
hours, and teenagers, according to psychologist, function better getting
twelve hours sleep. Some educators are considering beginning school classes
for teens at a later hour since statistically they perform more efficiently.

Our God planned for our times of rest through sleep by creating day and
night. We will be wise and healthy if we pay attention to His plan.

Thank you Lord for creating in us the need to rest. Help us organize the
days and nights of our lives to include getting the rest we need through
sleep. Amen
 

Week 2: Rest Through Recreation

Psalm 55: 6 "I said, "Oh, that I had wings of a dove! I would fly away and
be at rest!"

The word recreation suggests being re created. That's what it means to have
a day off from our day job to use playing or doing something different. Some
folks play games such as baseball, Golf, hiking, bicycling or participate in
other special hobbies; painting, music, apart from their day job. Others are
involved by volunteering to help special needs children, underprivileged
families or tutoring children who are struggling in school.

Dear Readers, We experience rest from participating in different activities
that we enjoy. Going back to our day job after spending a day off doing what
we truly enjoy makes us feel new like we have been re created. However, we
need to be careful not to be overly involved in anything even if it has some
rewards yet doesn't produce rest for our soul.
The Psalmist needed to get away in order to experience rest. Lets take good
care of our mind and bodies by planning to be re created through
appropriate, restful recreation in 2009!

Heavenly Father, Thank you for providing for our every need all the time.
Help us be obedient by keeping our bodies strong so we will present to you a
worthy temple in which your Holy Spirit will abide. Amen

 

Week 3:  Resting From Stresses

 

Mark 6: 31 "Then because so many people were coming and going that they
didn't have a chance to eat, Jesus said to his Disciples." Come with me by
yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest."

I love this about our Lord. If we ever have a doubt that He understands when
we are at our wits end, we can remember this scripture and be assured that
He understands and has the answer to our dilemma.

Different folks have confessed how they deal with stress. Whether it is
stress in the work place, in the home, in friendships or in church.
According to the scripture, stress can become a health issue if it is not
dealt with. Some people turn to alcohol or drugs and even tranquilizers to
relieve stress, but those remedies just add another stress.

Dear Readers, A friend of mine is successful in using gardening or
refinishing good wood furniture as anecdotes for stress. Others say they
exercise, talk confidentially to a friend or family member about their
stress, some say singing helps. Since changing our mind is necessary to
overcoming the stress in our life, we will need to participate in things
that will cause our thoughts to change. Prayer walking is my most effective
way of changing my mind. As soon as I turn to God in thanksgiving, praise or
intercessory prayer, I'm released from the thoughts that are causing me
stress.

Heavenly Father, May your Spirit remind us that on our own we can't change
our mind from our overwhelming stresses but by turning our thoughts to you
in praise we are raised up where you are and there gain peace of mind. Amen.
 

Week 4:  Rest Through Worship

Exodus 31: 17 "It will be a sign between me and the Israelites forever, for
in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, and the seventh day he
abstained from work and rested."

God was at work creating for six days. He set the example for us. Since He
created us in His image we like Him need to rest and refresh ourselves after
we have worked. Genesis: 27

During a devotional time at home or when attending the worship hour at
church it is vital that we encounter God in worship. Most of the time I
enter the sanctuary of my church dragging with me all my burdens and cares.
If I'm conscious of it I will sing the praises, pray at prayer time, and
study God's word as the pastor gives us the meaning of the scripture text he
has chosen. If I'm not sensitive to the Holy Spirits presence in the
congregation I could get all the way through the service before I realize I
am still holding on to the burdens in my heart that I dragged in with me. I
have learned that I must be consciously determined to encounter my Lord and
worship Him if I'm to leave His presence completely free.

Dear Readers, the last verse of one of my favorite hymns tells all: "Come
Spirit come, our hearts control, our spirits long to be made whole. Let
inward love guide every deed. By this we worship and are freed."

Loving God, Overpower Satan whose intentions are to keep us from
experiencing freedom from all the cares in our everyday life when we
worship you. Amen

 

March 2009: "Family"

Week 1: Godly Mother and Grandmother

Timothy 1:2,5  "To Timothy, my dear son: I have been reminded of your
sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and your mother
Eunice and I am persuaded now lives in you also."

Dear Readers, Apostle Paul had a wonderful fatherly love for Timothy and
referred to him in other scriptures as his son in the faith. Timothy was pastor of the church at Ephesus and Paul advised him how to grow the church so a to maintain her loyalty to Jesus Christ as Head of His
church. Though Timothy's father was of Greek ancestry, Paul expressed confidence in
Timothy's faith because of his mother and grandmother's teachings.

I'm convinced that love is the strongest force in the world. I've witnessed
children who had barely enough worldly possessions to get by, but the love
of a faithful mother produced very responsible children. I've been reading a
minister son's memoirs about such a mother. The father of this minister was
an alcoholic who produced nine children then left the mother to make it on
her own, and she did. She reared eight strong children to be responsible
adults. One son died early in his life from drowning. The one defining mark
in the memoirs regarding this mother is her strong love and sacrifice for
her children.

Heavenly Father, You are the giver of all good things: power, strength,
determination and above all else love. Thank you for the love of Jesus
Christ, Our Savior, for His sacrifice when He left his home in heaven and
came to earth to be scorned, then die that we can all be a part of Your
family through faith and belief in His name. Amen

 

Week 2: Celebrity Family

Exodus 20; 5 "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."

This scripture clearly states the conditions in which God deals with man. He
states unequivocally that rearing children in the love and admonition of the
Lord is vital if they are to live a long, peaceful life.
Rearing children is not easy in normal circumstances but for celebrities who
are ever in  the limelight it seems almost impossible especially when their
way of life spans three or four generations.

Historians record the history of Sir Winston Churchill who was Prime
Minister in England during and after World War 11. Sir Winston's father,
John Winston, became the 1st Duke of Marlborough. He had problems with
substance addiction. Sir Winston also had problems with substance addiction.
Sir Winston and his high society wife had several children who were reared
by hired help and rarely spent quality time with their parents. Randolph,
their son, also became an alcoholic. Their daughters also had problems with
various kinds of addictions. The Churchill children's lives were difficult
that included a suicide. Since children do what parents do not what we say
do, the Churchill children had no Godly influence or stable family members
who were consistently there for them in providing a positive pattern on
which to build their lives.

Dear Readers, God commands us in Deuteronomy 11: 19 to teach our children
about Him daily so they will have strength and stability to make wise
choices in life. If you are friends with celebrities or your children are
attending school with their children, pray for them and reach out to them as
God opens opportunities to show kindness and friendship.

Heavenly Father, Help us not to cast any one aside or give up believing they
can change because You never gave up on us. Amen

 

Week 3:  Blessings From Families

 

Psalm 68: 6 "God sets the lonely in families."

The best family I know for lonely folks is the local church. Granted some
churches do not function as a family but I believe most do. If I were in
need of a family I would search until I found a functioning church family.
That's what I did. Having married during World War 11, my husband was sent
overseas a month after our wedding. Even though I lived with my
mother-in-law, I needed a church family.
 

I found it in the First Baptist church in Norman, Oklahoma. In the Navy
wives circle of the Woman's Missionary Union I was welcomed and nurtured by
the young women until the war was over an my husband was home to stay.

God cares about every aspect of our lives especially when we are lonely. My
friend married again after her first husband, the father of her three
daughters, died. She remarried. Her new husband was in his fifties and had
never been married. His parents and siblings all died during the twenty five
years he and my friend were married. He attained a good report with my
friend's adult daughters and their families. Though my friend has died her
daughters now include her husband in their family times. God is blessing him
with family connections in his aging years!

Dear Readers, If you are alone and want a family to love and be loved, ask
God to supply that need in your life. I promise you He will answer your
prayer.

God our Father, I pray your Holy Spirit will abide with your lonely
children. When they cry to you in their need for family ties, fill them with
a strong sense of your peace and comfort for Jesus sake and fulfill their
need according to your will. Amen
 

Week 4:  A Faithful Dad

I Timothy 3: 4 "He must manage his own family well and see that his children
obey him with proper respect."

In previous years the father had to provide for his family. Actually if a
mother worked outside the home it became a negative reflection on the man of
the house. I remember Dad managed his family well: he was definitely in charge and we
obeyed him because we did not want the consequences that rebelling brought.
This is my dad: always with us as a caring provider, protector, parental,
instructor, our everyday doctor, a stern disciplinarian. Dad was not:
gentle, affectionate, demonstrative, or tender.

Dear Readers, Our greatest benefit was that we were family farmers which
meant everyone worked at growing our own food and preserving it for the lean
times of the year.

Dad butchered hogs in the fall and preserved the meat by smoke curing the
hams and shoulders and making sausage from the rest of the meat. We made
sausage patties from the seasoned meat, fried them, placed the patties in
jars or crocks and poured the hot fat over the patties, then sealed the jars
to preserve them for our winter food. Dad grew corn and took the dry ears to
the mill to grind into cornmeal.


We had beans and cornbread almost every day plus other food but many days
that was our meal and we were glad to have that. It is still my favorite. We
raised chickens to eat and had eggs as well. It was the staples we lacked:
flour, soda, baking powder, sugar, salt and spices. Sometimes we saved
enough eggs to sell at the market for money to buy those staples.

Thank you Heavenly Father for our faithful Dad who introduced us to You. He
depended on you to guide him in keeping our family together even during our
nation's darkest days and to help him face his personal loneliness after
mother's death. Amen

 

April 2009: "Jesus Christ"

Week 1: Unto Us a Child

 

Isaiah 9: 6 "For unto us a child is born, to us a Son is given, and the
government will be on his shoulders. And He will be called Wonderful,
Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of peace.
 
Dear Readers, The plan made by the Triune God before the creation of the
world said that God's Son, Jesus Christ would enter earth as a newborn baby
from a virgin's womb.
Perhaps we would ask, "but what can a newborn baby do for a world that is
filled with hate, confusion, despair, and sin? For the answer lets have a
look at what happens at Christmas: higher attendance in churches, people's
heart softens, we look for the good in the world, we care for those who are
in need, we gather food for those who are hungry, we're inclined to be more
forgiving of others idiosyncrasies and best of all we gather our loved ones
together and lavish our love on them!
 
Recall the angel song in Luke 2:13 "suddenly a great company of the heavenly
host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, "Glory to God in the
highest, And on earth peace to men on Whom his favor rests."              
    
Thank you Heavenly Father for sending Your Messiah as a baby because we need
help keeping ourselves at the right place in your love. Amen

 

Week 2: His Ministry

 

Luke 7: 20 "When the men came to Jesus, they said, "John the Baptist sent us
to you to ask, 'Are you the one who was to come, or should we expect someone
else?'
 
22. So Jesus replied to the messengers, "Go back and report to John what you
have seen and heard: The blind receive sight, the lame walk, those who are
sick and those with leprosy are cured, the deaf hear, the dead are raised,
and the good news is preached to the poor."
 
Remember the Samaritan woman at Jacobs well? She said, 'when Messiah comes
He will tell us all things.' Jesus declared to her, "I who speak to you am
He." She was the first to hear Jesus announce that He was the promised
Messiah!
John 4: 26 +39 Because of her testimony revival came to her town!
 
Dear Readers, The message Jesus sent back to John was the message of hope
and comfort which the prophets of old said would be Christ's ministry when
he came. John, in prison, faced certain death at the hands of the king. He
needed reassurance that his own work as the witness to Jesus was not in
vain. He could face execution knowing he had fulfilled the purpose for which
he was born to Elizabeth and Zechariah.
 
Heavenly Father, Thank you for your Son, Jesus Christ who in His journey to
the cross, fulfilled every expectation that his forerunner, John the
Baptist, claimed he would and fulfilled the plan that answers my need to
know You eternally. Amen
 

Week 3:  His Crucifixion

 

Isaiah 53: 7 "He was oppressed and afflicted, yet he did not open his mouth;
he was led like a lamb to the slaughter and as a sheep before her shearers
is silent, so he did not open his mouth."
 
Mark 15: 12-13 "What shall I do, then, with the one you call the king of the
Jews? Pilate asked them. 'Crucify him!" they shouted.
 
Dear Readers, When God created us he gave us the freedom to choose to obey
or disobey His laws. According to the redemption Plan Jesus Christ redeemed
God's creation by shedding His blood on the cross. In the garden of
Gethsemane, Jesus asked the Father to remove the cup if there was another
way. Knowing there was no other way said, "not my will but yours be done!"
 
His sacrificial death also guarantees Salvation for every individual who
through repentance and faith surrenders control of their life to Jesus
Christ. Peace of mind, a loving heart and a purpose in life are the fruits
of giving Christ control of our lives.
 
Father God, Thank you for my salvation bought by my Savior, Jesus Christ,
and guarantees that I'm your child and as such I have a home in heaven with
you along with all other believers! Amen

 

Week 4:  His Resurrection

 

Mathew 28: 5-7 "The angel said to the women, "Do not be afraid, for I know
that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; he has
risen, just as he said. Come see the place where he lay." Then go quickly
and tell his disciples: 'He has risen from the dead and is going ahead of
you into Galilee. There you will see him.' Now I have told you."
 
John 20; 26-28 "A week later his disciples were in the house again, and
Thomas was with them. Though the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood
among them and said, "Peace be with you! Then he said to Thomas,  "Put your
finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop
doubting and believe.' Thomas said to Him, "My Lord and my God!"
 
Dear Readers, HAPPY EASTER! With the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ
from the dead, the plan made by the Triune God for the creation and
redemption of the world, is complete. The bodily presence of God, manifested
in Christ, lived on earth for thirty-three years. His daily walk, thoughts
and activities are recorded so as we worship the invisible triune God we
know what He is like because Jesus said, "the Father and I are one. If you
see me you have seen My Father."
 
Holy omnipresent God, Thank you for Easter through which we are reminded
that your Son, Jesus Christ, completed His part of The Plan. The Holy Spirit
remains in our hearts: guiding, guarding, protecting, convicting of sin,
recalling to us everything Jesus said to His Disciples and reminding us of
your wonderful love for your creation and the spilled blood of Christ you
used to buy it back! Amen

 

May 2009: "Godly Women"

Week 1: Esther

Esther 4: 16-17 "Go gather together all the Jews who are in Susa, and fast
for me. Do not eat or drink for three days, night or day. I and my maids will fast
as you do. When this is done, I will go to the king, even though it is against the law
And if I perish, I perish."
 
Can anyone imagine losing both parents by death, having one's nation
conquered and taken by force to a foreign country, then the uncle who reared
you as his Own entered you into a beauty contest that if you won would make
you a part of the conquering nation's Kings court? Because of her beauty
Esther was chosen to be in the Kings court. When Queen Vashti was deposed
for disobeying the King, Esther found herself chosen as Queen to King
Xerxes. Wow!
 
Dear Readers, If you have not read the book of Esther please read it. It
will help you meet the challenges of life as a Godly woman! When her uncle,
Mordecai, told Esther about the plot to kill all her people of Israel who
had been taken to Babylon, her own life appeared to her as insignificant.
But lets remember that God was there! He used Esther to preserve a remnant
of His people. Though He allowed His people to be taken away from their land
because of their disobedience: worshiping idols, He went with them into
captivity where He guided, guarded, and protected them in order to bring
them back to the land He gave them so His plan for a Messiah could reach
fruition in His time! Will you be a Godly person on whom God can depend to
see the world's need through His eyes?
 
Holy God, when I look at all your works to preserve Israel for Yourself, I'm
humbled. Nothing is too big for you. I praise you Lord God for all the
wonders you have performed as described in your Word. From your Word I know
you are everlasting. From your Word I know I can rely on you to always be
the same God you were in the beginning and I can continue to trust you with
my own life! Amen

 

Week 2: Deborah

 
Judges 4: 4-5 "Deborah, a prophetess, the wife of Lappidoth, was leading
Israel at that time. She held court under the Palm of Deborah between Ramah
and Bethel in the hill country of Ephraim and the Israelites came to her to
have their disputes decided."
 
The book of Judges gives the history of Israel during the period between the
death of Joshua and the ministry of Samuel.
 
God used Deborah to over power Sisera, captain of the King of Canaan's Army
She told Barak, the captain of Israel's army to go to war against Canaan's
army on a specific day promising, "this day the Lord has given Sisera into
your hands. Has not the Lord gone ahead of you?" Barak did go but not until
Judge Deborah agreed to go with him. Deborah let Barak know that the honor
for Sisera's death and the glory for winning the battle would go to a woman
The woman's name is Jael. Though a Kenite she was an Israelite sympathizer!
Please read the account of her victory in Judges 5: 24-27
 
Dear Readers, God has a person or persons to carry out His good plans in
protecting his people at any given time. He used, Deborah, during the reign
of the fifteen judges who were used of God to protect, settle disputes and
when necessary, go to war against the Israelite's ever threatening enemies.
If you are a woman or man in politics you are a leader. Your faithfulness to
God's calling is sorely needed!
 
Heavenly Father, Thank you for the faithful women, men, boys and girls
you've called who are fighting actual battles, and whose voice is faithfully
opposing the spiritual warfare Satan initiates against your twenty first
century church. Amen


Week 3: Ruth


Ruth 1:16-18 "But Ruth replied, "Don't urge me to leave you or to turn back
from you. Where you go I will go and where you stay I will stay. Your people
will be my people and your God my God. Where you die I will die, and there I
will be buried. May the Lord deal with me, be it ever so severely, if
anything but death separates you and me"
 
Ruth, a Godly woman, puts a different perspective on love and loyalty as she
devotes her life to her mother-in-law, Naomi. God took his people through
heartache and pain to bring about His purpose: bringing to earth His
Messiah.


Ruth married Boaz, Naomi's kinsman-redeemer, and together they had a son
named Obed. Obed fathered Jesse and Jesse fathered King David. From that
linage Jesus Christ was born. God is so great! Every generation, since His
creative activity began, He has chosen individuals or families in which to
further his kingdom. Enemies came and went but God's hand was still working
toward His goal. God's Messiah has come and today when sinners confess to
God their sins and accept His Messiah they have eternal life with Him. He
needs Godly women and men who will finish His work. Will you be one of His
Godly people?
 
Dear Readers, I had a Godly mother-in-law. I lived in her home while my
husband was away during world War 11 and I kept her in my home for a time
when she was in her late eighties. We were friends.
What a blessing Naomi was to Ruth! She spoke to her daughter-in-law
regarding the traditions of the Israelite people and helped her in ways that
protected Ruth from danger as she endeavored to carve out a living for them
both.
 
Lord God, Bless those loyal, faithful, Godly women and men who through the
ages have lifted your name up so that you would draw all people to yourself!
Amen

 

Week 4: Lydia

 
Acts16:14 "One of those listening was a woman named Lydia, a dealer in
Purple cloth from the city of Thyatira, who was a worshiper of God. The Lord
opened her heart to respond to Paul's message. When she and members of her
household were baptized, she invited us to her home. 'If you consider me a
believer in the Lord,' she said, 'come and stay at my house,' and she
persuaded us."
 
Lydia was a prosperous business Woman. She worshipped God. When Paul spoke
to her about Jesus Christ the Messiah she accepted Him as her own Savior.
The Philippians Church was constituted and met for a time in her house.
Lydia used what she had to serve her Lord.
 
Dear Readers, I had the privilege of touring Israel with a church group. We
visited the ruins of the prison at Philippi where Paul was kept prisoner
while waiting two years to be taken by ship to Rome. Our group ate lunch
there in a small café located where tradition claims the ships docked. The
café building extended about twelve feet out from the shore over the
Mediterranean Sea. As I ate Israel's traditional food, I was reminded that
Paul's zeal and determination to take the gospel to Rome was so strong that
he appealed to Caesar in order to be taken there though in chains.
Later Lydia again served her Lord by welcoming Paul and Silas to her house
after God delivered them from prison at midnight.
 
Heavenly Father, Thank you for Godly women in this twenty first century who
tirelessly work to take your gospel message to the ends of the earth. I
praise you for the blessings and guidance I receive from the Godly women you
have placed before me during my own life's journey! Amen

 

June 2009: "Godly Men"

Week 1: David, The Shepherd

1Samuel 16:7 "But the Lord said to Samuel, "Do not consider his appearance or
his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things
man looks at, Man looks at the outward appearance but the Lord looks at the
heart."

It is rather strange to me that when God looked at the heart of all Jesse's
older sons, not one met God's Kingly criteria nor did it appear that God
even knew them. But when the shepherd boy, David came in, the Lord said, "
Rise and anoint him; he is the one."

In my opinion God already knew David because David knew God: had been in
touch with Him while on the mountains tending his father's sheep. No doubt
David called on God for strength when he killed bears and lions to protect
the sheep as he did when he encountered and killed Goliath, the Philistine
Giant.

Dear Readers, Sometimes the youngest child in the family is overlooked when
serious responsibilities are being considered. Perhaps they are always seen
as the baby and as such could not make the mature decisions leaders are
expected to make. But God looks much deeper than age and position. He looks
at a person's willingness to listen to and follow the directions of the Holy
Spirit. David was a Godly man. He acknowledged God in his life and repented
when he sinned.


David knew God very well. He told the giant, Goliath, "You come against me
with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the
Lord Almighty, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied." That
name is one the enemies of Israel learned to respect as the conqueror that
fought for His people.

Holy Father, I want to know you better. I want to obey you when your Holy
Spirit gives me an assignment. Help me discern your voice from the voice of
your enemies. Grant me power to overcome Satan. Amen

 

Week 2: Joseph of Nazareth

Matthew 1:20 "But after he had considered this, and angel of the Lord
appeared to him in a dream and said, 'Joseph son of David, do not be afraid
to take Mary home as your wife because what is conceived in her is from the
Holy spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name
Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.' When Joseph woke
up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home
as his wife. But he had no union with her until she gave birth to a son. And
he gave him the name Jesus."

Joseph proved he was a Godly man when he listened and believed what God
revealed to him in the dream though tradition said he should abandon Mary.
God put Mary's wellbeing and the protection of God's unborn Messiah into the
faithful heart and hands of Joseph.

Dear Reader's, Joseph proved himself faithful when God again spoke to him in
a dream, "When they had gone, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a
dream, 'Get up,' he said,'take the child and his mother and escape to Egypt.
Stay there until I tell you, for Herod is going to search for the child to
kill him.'

Thank you Lord for the Godly men of faith who believe you and obey you
immediately. Amen

 

Week 3:  Saul of Tarsus

 

Acts 9:3,4,5 "As he neared Damascus on his journey, suddenly a light from
heaven flashed around him. He fell to the ground and heard a voice say to
him. "Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?" 'Who are you Lord?' Saul asked,
"I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting,' He replied."

Dear Readers, "In his encounter with Jesus Christ Saul lost his name, his
hatred for those who accepted Jesus as the expected Messiah, and his threats
of murder against believers in Jesus Christ.

He received a new name, Paul, who put all his energy into his love for
Jesus, constituted His Lord's churches and preached love, mercy, justice and
forgiveness, He became a Godly man!

Paul is proof that when Jesus takes complete control of our lives our entire
being is turned upside down and inside out!

Thank you heavenly Father for changed lives: evidence that Jesus saves,
redeems, and renews us to become His usable vessels. Amen

 

Week 4:  Samuel

1 Samuel 3: 8-9 "Then Eli realized that the Lord was calling the boy. So Eli
told Samuel go lie down, and if He calls you say, 'Speak Lord, for your
servant is listening.' So Samuel went and lay down in his place. The Lord
came and stood there, calling as at the other times, "Samuel! Samuel!" Then
Samuel said, "speak, Lord, for your servant is listening."

Dear Readers, When I taught children in Sunday school and vacation Bible
school one of my and also the children's favorite stories was the story of
Hannah and her son. Samuel's mother was childless and promised God that if
He gave her a son she would give him back to serve Him all his days. Hannah
kept her promise and Samuel lived in the temple helping the elderly priest,
Eli, with temple responsibilities and he heard God's call for duty at a very
young age.

Samuel grew up to be a Godly man and one of most significant leaders of
God's people in Israel's history. Serving faithfully and with righteousness
as prophet, priest and judge, he influenced Israel's civilians and armies
greatly during the years of First and Second Samuel. Among the many duties
God required of Samuel was the anointing of Israel's first kings: Saul and
David.

Lord God, Help me listen each day for you to call my name and help to be
trustworthy. Amen

 

July 2009: "Peacemakers"

Week 1: In the Home

Matthew 5: 9 "Blessed are the peacemakers for they will be called sons of
God"
 
Every area of life needs peacemakers: individuals with ready solutions to
conflict in families, neighbors, churches, and nations.
 
Abraham gave a perfect example of peacemaking when he told Lot in Genesis
11:13. "Lets not have any quarreling between you and me, or between your herdsmen
and mine, for we are brothers."

They parted company, retained their peace and Abraham continued to be used
of God.
 
Dear Readers, Peacemakers are essential in families. In the many conflicts
of family life someone appointed by the Holy Spirit must step up to the
plate and be the hero. Even among strong Christians hurt feelings and
misunderstandings can occur.
 
My son-in-law, Tony, grew up in a family of nine children. Tony is second to
the youngest but he is the one the other siblings call when problems arise
in their families. Most of the older siblings are themselves grandparents
and even great grandparent they still rely on Tony to know how to quiet any
serious conflicts in their homes.  We are blessed to have him in our family
 
Lord Jesus, Thank you for being my wonderful peacemaker. When I'm frustrated
with life's circumstances your Spirit calms my soul, directs my path and
gives me peace. Amen

 

Week 2: In the Workplace

James 3: 18 "Peacemakers who sow in peace raise a harvest of righteousness."
 
While Nehemiah worked at rebuilding the wall in Jerusalem he made a gruesome
discovery regarding the people who had joined him in this endeavor. Some of
the worker's families were going hungry other officials were taxing the
people so much they could not pay so the officials were taking away their
homes and land.


When Nehemiah became aware of these conditions he was outraged. Being a
peacemaker he took decisive action to right the wrong by returning the land
and homes to the owners. He made sure the worker's families were not going
hungry. The people cooperated and vowed to do as Nehemiah ordered!
 
Dear Readers, God's peacemakers are needed in every workplace. One church's
budget committee didn't propose a cost of living raise for their pastor.
Since the economy wasn't good, the church was feeling the effects. The
pastor had led the church as pastor for twenty years. But it was later
learned two people on the personnel committee had unjustly accused the
pastor of mismanaging his time and preaching too long which resulted in the
committee turning down the raise proposed by budget committee.
Whether in a secular business establishment or church most of the time a
raise in pay means a "job well done" or a necessary "cost of living"
increase. In this case the pastor corrected the misstated information then
simply trusted God and left his welfare and reputation in God's hands.
 
Holy Father, Help us make peace in every position of work. Help us love and
serve you first while we give love and kindness for each other a priority in
our journey home to you. Amen

 

Week 3:  In the Church

 

Acts 9: 31 "Then the church throughout Judea, Galilee and Samaria enjoyed a
time of peace. It was strengthened; and encouraged by the Holy Spirit. It grew in numbers,
living in the fear of the Lord."
 
This peace the church enjoyed for awhile came after Saul was struck down,
made blind by the light of Christ and converted on the road to Damascus. It
was he who led the persecution of Christians in Christ's new church. Now
that he had a new heart and the new name, Barnabas helped Paul convince the
Christians who feared him that he would no longer persecute them since Jesus
Christ had made him a new person and changed the direction of his life.
 
Dear Readers, God has placed in every church today those to whom He has
gifted as peacemakers. When there is a difference of opinions within the
membership it will be the person who calmly says, "Lets pray and find what
Jesus would do in these circumstances." Are you the person who has the gift
of peacemaking in your church? Then calmly speak up!
 
Thank you Heavenly Father for your power that changes men's hearts from
conflict to peace in your twenty first century church. Help us follow you
not Satan! Amen

 

Week 4:  National Leaders

2 Chronicles 14: 5 "He removed the high places and incense Altars in every
town in Judah and the kingdom was at peace under him."
 
Though he did not remove the high places in Israel like he did in Judah, no
more idols were allowed when Asa was King. He even deposed his grandmother
Maacah from her position as queen mother because she made a repulsive
Asherah pole. King Asa cut the pole down, broke it up and burned it in the
Kidron valley. God gave Asa victory over his enemies. The nation had no war
for thirty years.
 
Dear Readers, I recall the 1980's when Ronald Reagan was president and he
determined to bring an end to the cold war. He said to Mikhail Gorbachev,
"Tear down that Berlin wall." It was torn down! Reagan acted the part of
peacemaker while he was president. He saw what was needed and made it happen
peacefully!
 
Heavenly Father, help your people understand the importance of electing men
and women who are peacemakers because they know Jesus Christ. Give courage
to your people when, under your leadership, they desire to run for public
office. Amen

 

August 2009: "Heaven's Treasures"

Week 1: Treasures Are Safe

Matthew 6: 20 "But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven where moth or
rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal."
 
Through faith we give to Jesus Christ our greatest treasure: ourselves. We
know He is with His Father in Heaven and because of His promise we are
assured that our soul is safe with Him.
I

 gave myself to Jesus at age eleven and now seventy years later I feel just
as safe as I felt the night I said 'yes' to the Holy Spirit.
 
Dear Readers, Have you stored your soul safely in the arms of Jesus? In John
10: 28-29 Jesus promised that no one can take us out of His hand and that
God the Father is greater than He and no one can take us from the Father's
hand.
 
Heavenly Father, Thank you for the assurance that we belong to you and you
have prepared a home for all who have placed their soul in your care through
faith in Jesus Christ. Amen

 

Week 2: Children

Matthew 19:14 "Jesus said, 'let the children come to me and do not hinder
them for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these."
 
I'm impressed when I see our Lord's gentleness in dealing with children.
They are definitely not in His way but in His eyes are Heavenly treasures.
Perhaps we need to pattern our thinking after His and treat our children as
our earthly treasures until Jesus calls them to live with Him.
 
Dear Readers, Many parents and grandparents have children in heaven. My
granddaughter left this earth at age sixteen due to an automobile accident.
She is one of Heaven's treasures.
 
Lord, As I look at all children help me see them through your eyes! Amen

 

Week 3:  Gifts of Love

 

Mark 10: 21 "Jesus looked at him and loved him. 'One thing you lack, 'he
said. "Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have
treasure in heaven, then come, follow me."
 
Dear Readers, This scripture indicates to me that God cannot perform the
miracle of the new birth in us until we give up to Him any hold on our own
life or our possessions. It also tells me that God expects us to care for
those in need by sharing our possessions.
If you have salvation the miracle of a changed heart is God's work. When the
Holy Spirit urged you to repent and ask the Lord to come into your heart the
one thing you did was to say 'yes'. The miracle of 'being born again' is
God's work.
 
Heavenly Father, Thank you for the love you gave us for the less fortunate.
Help us fill heaven's coffers with treasures of love. Amen

 

Week 4:  Mansions

John 14 2 "In my fathers house are many rooms, if it were not so, I would
have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you.  And if I go and
prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that
you also may be where I am. You know the way to the place where I am going."
 
In this scripture Jesus has told His disciples that He is leaving them and
is expressing His comfort and love to them. I can't imagine how they must
have felt after walking with God for three years. With the sense of loss and
the question 'what will we do' resounding in their being with every
heartbeat, Jesus continues to instruct them in answer to their fear. His
promise is that He will send the comforter to be with them forever and the
comforter will bring to their minds everything He said to them during their
journey together. Such a wonderful Shepherd we have!
 
Dear Readers, I like the translation that has mansions rather than rooms
since a room is just a room but mansions suggest splendor as eluded to in1
Corinthians 2: 9. "No Eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived
what God has prepared for those who love Him."
 

We know that whatever is in heaven for us it will be an indescribable
Treasure.
 
Thank you Lord Jesus for making our home with you possible. Amen

 

September 2009:

"Today's Children-Tomorrow's World"

Week 1: Tiny Tots

Mark 10: 16 "And He (Jesus) took the children in His arms, put His hands on
them and blessed them."
 
Jesus knew about small children's needs. By taking the children in His arms
He could look into their eyes as He talked to them so they would not forget
Him or what He was saying. Small tots surely get tired of looking at adult
knees! We need to lift them up to eye level or bend to the floor so they can
see our eyes as we talk to them.
 
Dear Readers, Toddlers to three year olds are self involved, and their world
extends little beyond that which they can see but they do what we do. If we
are loading the dishwasher they don't watch they want to put dishes in.
Whatever they hear us say they will try to say. My daughter's foster toddler
misses nothing that is going on. She is very busy. She helps.
 
She also is receiving discipline. When she does something she knows is
against the rules or fails to do what is asked of her my daughter asks, "Do
you need to go to Œtime out?' The toddler will march herself down the hall
to the chair and sit down. She doesn't stay long but long enough that she
understands what she did or did not do is unacceptable behavior and that's
why she is sitting alone in the chair.
 
This age children love books and love to be read to. When exploring the
outdoors with parents they are keenly aware of sights, sounds and smells.
This is a wonderful age to introduce picture books that tell about Jesus
since He always walked along the way.
The common thread that runs through the life of every age child is the need
to feel safe, loved, to know they will be cared for and their needs
appropriately met including discipline. Hebrews 12:6 "Because the Lord
disciplines those he loves."
 
Heavenly Father, Help the small children who live in troubled homes survive
and some way come to know that your great love and sacrifice is for them
too. Amen

 

Week 2: Kindergarten-First Grade

Matthew 19: 13 "Then little children were brought to Jesus for Him to place
His hands on them and pray for them. But the disciples rebuked those who
brought them."
 
Jesus made it clear that the children were where they needed to be: with
Him! He had a special gift for them: the touch of His hand, a blessing they
would never forget!
 
Dear Readers, Twenty first century children in this age bracket are
exploring their world. They especially like heroes like Spider man and
Superman for the boys and Princesses like Cinderella and Dora are playmates
for the girls.
At this point in their lives they are less self­centered and for brief
periods of time are striking out on his and or her own.
They leave the security of home and parents behind and trek to school each
day. They are learning to read for themselves but still enjoy being read to
from contemporary books, folktales, fantasies and the perennial animal
stories.
 
Their greatest need is to know that when they return home everything will
still be in its place. And mom and dad will both be there to help them feel
secure in parental love.
For this age discipline is critical. Simple boundaries are set such as being
on time and appearing at home at the agreed upon time. Taking away
privileges is an effective discipline as long as it is consistent. The type
of discipline isn't as important as that the child know for sure that every
time they disobey their parents, they will face some kind of deprivation!
 
Lord, Help families spend time together working to solve problems so the
children will feel safe and secure. Help parents give you credit for the
blessings they enjoy and in that way the children will learn they can trust
their lives to your care! Amen

 

Week 3:  'Tween Age

 

Colossians 3:20 "Children obey your parents in everything, for this pleases
the Lord."
 
Children age eight through twelve are transitioning through many of life's
emotional phases. For most children this is pre-puberty.
I remember an incident when I was nine that caused me to fear I was about to
drop dead.
I had overheard my dad's friend telling about a mutual friend who had
dropped dead within an hour after experiencing an excruciating pain in his
back under his right shoulder blade. A few weeks later while walking home
from school I felt a sharp pain in my back under my right shoulder blade. I
remembered the story I'd heard and prepared to die. I was too scared to tell
the family about my fears yet I was so upset I couldn't eat my dinner. It
was bedtime before I suddenly became aware that I was still alive: I hadn't
dropped dead within the hour after feeling the pain like the man in the
story!
 
Dear Readers, My story is an example of what children go through while
growing and changing emotionally. Fearful, sensitive, and an imagination
that is out of control yet this is the age that children come to understand
Jesus' love for them. Many decide to give Jesus Christ complete control of
their lives during this age span. It is also a great time of their life for
the child to bond with their parents and gain their trust through obedience
and being helpful at home.
 
Heavenly Father, Help us teach our children who you are and that you love
them so much you sent your Son to give His life for them. Amen

Week 4:  Teens

1 Corinthians 13:11 "When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought
like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put childish
ways behind me."
 
Not many children entering their teen years wish they could still be in
elementary school. They really do want to be adults. Society expects much of
teenagers and they expect much of themselves. If parents have achieved a
good relationship with their teen during earlier years through their loving
care, teaching, Bible study, and discipline, the new journey will not be a
challenge. It will be filled with mutual love and respect.
 
Dear Readers, Sometimes teen children begin to rebel along the way. Others
are ready to assume more responsibility such as working after school and
weekends. When there is illness in the home the teen children are expected
to help the family stay afloat. In all of this the teens begin to think as
adults. Teens still need discipline. Discipline will perfect their ability
to practice self-discipline when they are on their own. Discipline also
builds in them the self-confidence needed to make wise choices and decisions
that will affect the rest of their life.
 

Most of all this age citizens need Jesus Christ in their life to guide,
guard and give them a sense of peace when life seems all mixed up.
 
I married at age seventeen and nine months eleven days later I gave birth to
my first child. My two older sisters and I had been on our own for two years
after our Dad died. God took first place in my life at age eleven so as I
began my own family I experienced the inner strength and peace that is
available through faith in Jesus Christ. All teens need to know His strength
as they prepare to become the leaders in tomorrow's world.
Philippians 4: 13 Apostle Paul states, "I can do all things through Christ
who gives me strength."
 
Heavenly Father, Give today's teens your grace as they prepare themselves to
lead your people in the twenty first Century. Amen

                                     

October 2009: "Humble-Humility"

Week 1: Respect for Everyone

 

Psalm 138:6  " Though the Lord be high, yet hath
He respect unto the lowly;" KJV
 
Dear Readers, We have a member of our writer's group who is a successful
writer-author. She has at least twenty books published plus numerous short stories and
articles. Yet, when beginning writers and or aspiring authors join our group she
offers suggestions and encouraging information to help them get started. And
also shares suggestions and information regarding available markets as well
as how to write cover letters, query letters or synopsis.
 
Plus she shares information regarding the kind of books that are currently
being requested by publishers and educators. During critique sessions she joins in critiquing manuscripts and gives
suggestions for making them more marketable.
 
Heavenly Father, Thank you for your children who pattern their lives after
you. Help those whose desire is to help others further your kingdom here and
grant us wisdom and discernment as we encourage others to trust in you to
help them rise above who they are to more than they can be on their own.
Amen

 

Week 2: Presidential Humility

 

Luke 14:11 "for everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who
humbles himself will be exalted."
 
Dear Readers, When the dedication of the National Cemetery in Gettysburg,
Virginia took place November 19, 1863 President Abraham Lincoln was the
scheduled keynote speaker. However, a political backer introduced Senator
Samuel Arnold Douglas first. He spoke for most of three hours.
President Lincoln didn't object to being introduced second since he had
something special to say to the American people. He took the podium and
spoke from his heart for a very few minutes and yet history has made his
Gettysburg Address a Masterpiece that is known as one of the greatest
speeches ever given anywhere. Mr. Douglas exalted himself and history does
not record anything he said.  Mr. Lincoln humbled himself to exalt the
America that has since exalted him.
 
Heavenly Father, keep us humble so we may understand fully your plan for our
lives in light of your salvation plan when in humility you sacrificed your
Son, Jesus, for our sins. Amen

 

Week 3:  Self Esteem

 

Romans 12: 3 "For by the grace given me I say to everyone of you: Do not
think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself
with honest judgment, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given
you."
 
I believe the Apostle Paul intended for our humility to be toward God. I
believe also that God gives us confidence in our ability to perform the
duties that He has called and empowered us to do, though we may feel
unworthy of His calling.
 
The statement 'more highly than you ought' suggest that first we must depend
on God then feel good about ourselves in using the gifts and or talents that
He has given to each one of us. Romans 12:6 lists the various gifts. If by
God's grace two in the church have been endowed with the same gift and we
believe we are using the gift more effectively than the other individual who
has the same gift, we are to pray for God to give wisdom to the other person
in using his or her gift. Humility will not permit us to openly show that
our use of the gift is more effective than the other individual!
 
Holy Father, Help us work together in harmony whether in our secular work
place or in your church. May we temper all our relationships with respect
and Christian love. Amen
 

Week 4:  With Joy

 

Philippians 2: 8-10 "And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled
himself and became obedient to death ‹even death on the cross!"
 
Dear Readers, Jesus, the holy one of God came to earth in the most humble
way: a baby born of a woman. Then, throughout His ministry no task was beneath his
dignity: Washing his disciples feet. John 13:5 or talking to the Samaritan
woman. He saved her soul then through her salvation experience revival came
to the entire Samaritan town.
 
He invited those who were hurting to come to Him. "Come to me, all you who
are weary and burdened and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and
learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest
for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." Matt.11:28-30
 
Mother Theresa patterned her life after our Lord's example as she cared for
the street people in Calcutta. She was gifted with a love for people who
were the worlds cast-off's. With no thought for fame she ministered daily to
those who needed her.
 
We worship a loving, powerful, perfect God and Savior. Had our Lord been any
way but humble we would not know Him today.
 
Father God, Thank you for who you are. Since humility is a scarce quality in
today's world help us surrender ourselves to you for it is our desire that
you mold and make us usable instruments to spread your love and peace to the
world. Amen
 

November 2009: "Home"

Week 1: A Place to Belong

Mark 14: 23 "Jesus replied, 'If anyone loves me, he will obey my teaching.
My Father will love Him, and we will come to him and make our home with
him.'"
 
Such a wonderful promise! The only requirement to having the Godhead abide
in our home is that we love our Savior in obedience to the first
commandment. "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with
all your soul and with all your mind."
 
A friend of our family told about the time on the plane when he was flying
home after Germany surrendered to the allies and World War 2 was over.
"As I sat with my buddies on the plane I could hardly believe I was still
alive and on my way to America and my family home, the place where I
belong." He said.
 
Thank you heavenly Father for furthering the tradition of living together as
families in homes where we can experience the sense of belonging. Amen

 

Week 2: A Place of Comfort

John 19: 27 "Jesus said, 'Dear Woman, here is your son, and to the disciple,
"Here is your mother." From then on, this disciple took her into his home."
 
Such love! While suffering on the cross our Lord took care of his mother.
 
Dear Reader, Throughout His earthly ministry Jesus was close friends with
apostle John. And was at this time standing near Mary. Jesus faced the
possibility that His mother might be persecuted and would need the comfort
and protection of a friend's home. I can't even imagine the horror Mary must
have felt as she watched the crucifixion of her wonderful Son who had never
done any wrong!
 
As a gift for her high school graduation we gave our daughter a plane trip
to Seattle to visit her sister. Six weeks or so later we drove there, visited awhile, and brought our
daughter home with us. When she came into the house she walked into each
room and said, "everything is still there just as I remembered, " We later
learned she had been very homesick just as she had been her first trip to
camp but found comfort seeing that everything was in place just as she
remembered.
 
Heavenly Father, Thank you for our homes and families. Thank you also for
women and men who bring comfort by sharing words of love and hope with those
who live daily midst sorrow and persecution for Christ's sake. Amen

 

Week 3:  A Place of Mercy

 

"Jesus did not let him, but said, 'Go home to your family and tell them how
much the Lord has done for you, and how he had mercy on you.'"
 
Dear Readers, The man who was demon possessed wanted to follow Jesus because
of the miracle healing Jesus had performed for him. Just imagine the man had
been locked up in insanity all his life then Jesus came, healed him, and
said, "Go home and tell your family about my mercy! I'm sure the man ran all
the way home from wherever he was: so excited to be free and NORMAL! And
with the promise he could live a life of peace and be accepted at home and
in the community.
 
Perhaps one of your children needs a special gift of your mercy. One of mine
did. I'm so grateful to God that He had taught me how to share His mercy in
my family. If there is unrest or bickering in the family take time when the
family is together at mealtime to ask God to give peace and freedom to each
member. You will never regret the few minutes it takes to bring any matter
to our heavenly Father and leave it there. Watch how He answers your plea!
 
Thank you Heavenly Father, You had mercy on your creation when you sent your
Son Jesus to show us how to live then He died for us so that we may forever
be in your presence. Amen

Week 4:  A Place of Rest

Nehemiah 4: 14 "After I looked things over, I stood up and said to the
nobles, the officials and the rest of the people, "Don't be afraid of them.
Remember the Lord, who is great and awesome, and fight for your brothers,
your sons and your daughters, your wives and your homes."
 
Sometimes our Lord expects us to fight for a time and place to rest. It was
so when Nehemiah was in charge of rebuilding the walls and gates in
Jerusalem. He was not afraid to lead the people because he knew God was with
them and it was for God's glory. A home in which we find the freedom to rest
and be unafraid is worth fighting for. The people of Israel found themselves
in dangerous situations due to their failure to only worship Jehovah God.
But God always showed mercy and brought them back to be His people.
 
Dear Readers, in our homes we may need to take drastic measures to protect
our time and place to rest. It does take the cooperation of all the family
working together and it is worth it to keep us from burnout or other serious
illness.
 
I save a short time each day to read a verse or two from the Bible and
meditate. I always feel rested after taking that time.
 
Thank you Lord for the Bible. The words we find therein bring comfort,
peace, rest and the assurance that we belong to you. Amen

 

December 2009: "Messianic Prophecies"

Week 1: A Star

Numbers 24: 17 "I see Him, but not now; I behold Him, but not near.
A star will come out of Jacob; a scepter will rise out of Israel.
He will crush the foreheads of Moab, the skulls of all the son's of Sheth."
 
Dear Readers, I walk one mile and a half every evening. On clear nights I
watch the heavens and search for a shooting star. Last summer I noticed one
star rising in the southwest sky that was larger and brighter than the rest.
I could not help noticing it because of its size and brilliance. The star
moved a little higher every night until by years end it had moved completely
across the sky and disappeared below the horizon. I believe the star that
told of our Savior's coming was that large and so distinctly bright it could
not be ignored.


It was a very special way God announced to His people that someone
meaningful and wonderful would enter their world and make a significant
difference.
 
Great Father God, open people's minds so they can understand that your
promised Messiah which the star represented, is still saving people from
their sins when in faith they surrender their lives to Jesus Christ. Amen
 

Week 2: A Branch

Jeremiah 23: 5 "The days are coming declares the Lord, Œwhen I will raise up
to David a Righteous branch, a King who will reign wisely and do what is just and right
in the land."
 
The conditions in Jeremiah's day were similar to the conditions in our world
today. We face every day: Injustice, Bribery in government, payoffs in
business, heavier sentences for the poor than for the rich, slum landlords
going scot-free. Racial prejudice, apartheid and in the schools there are
bullies that are making student's lives miserable with fear.
 
However, when Jeremiah stood and told the people the truth about conditions
in his day the people hated him and wanted to kill him. But God said "Hang
in there, Jeremiah: the righteous King is coming and when He comes He will
establish the Kingdom of God, defend the poor, the oppressed, the weak and
the ailing.


So in truth we can say again, folks "Hang in there! He's coming again and He
will right all wrongs!
 
Heavenly Father, Thank you for the hope your promises give to us when we
read the Bible. That because of your provisions, love for you and for one
another will increase in the days ahead! Amen

 

Week 3:  A Town

 

Micah 5:2  "But you Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the
clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over
Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times."
 
God has a way of making significant something that is totally insignificant
like choosing the little town of Bethlehem for the miraculous birth of His
Messiah. The coming of the Messiah whose coming is the most widely
celebrated happening in history put the small town of Bethlehem on the map.
We toured Bethlehem by bus at night and the lights of the now large city
were spectacular.
 
Dear Readers, Do you feel unimportant? Do you feel as if no one notices you
or even cares whether you exist? Jesus came! He loves you and cares like a
shepherd loves and cares for his sheep. Calling you by name He can take your
insignificance and give you value and worth. Will you come to Him now as He
came to you so many years ago?
 
Heavenly Father, Thank you for calling each one of us to you and welcoming
us with your open arms. Amen

Week 4:  His Birth

Isaiah 7:14 "Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin
will be with child and will give birth to a son, and will call him
Immanuel."
 
Dear Readers, signs are great what would life be like without signs? Traffic
accidents would skyrocket. Restaurants would go broke if they had no way to
tell customers where they were. Hospitals would seem like mazes without
arrows pointing visitors in the proper direction.


Our faith would be weaker without signs from God. Like: a rainbow (Gen.9:
12-17), a staff (Ex. 4:1-9) A sheepskin (Judges 5: 36-40) A sundial (2 Kings 20:8-11)
The most wonderful of all of God's signs is the sign of our sweet Savior's
birth. The sad thought regarding that sign is that all through His word from
Genesis until Jesus' birth, God encouraged His people with the promise that
He was sending a Redeemer to save them from their sins. But when He arrived
the people didn't recognize Him because He showed them that God is not a
harsh, vengeful God but a God of love! And every command that He gives is
given to help us live peaceful, productive lives.
 
When I'm discouraged and God seems far away He sends His Spirit and puts in
my memory the sign of how: He has walked with me all my life: From a small
child through my teen years to rearing children and to now in the Great
Grandmother Season. His promises remain; That He will never leave us or
forsake us! Heb. 13:5
 
Thank You Sweet Jesus for Your willingness to come to earth and be with us.
You brought hope to a hopeless world. Amen