Daily Devotion

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Silent Night of the Soul
December 22, 2017

Read: 2 Corinthians 5:14–21 | Bible in a Year: Micah 6–7; Revelation 13

If anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone; the new is here! 2 Corinthians 5:17

Long before Joseph Mohr and Franz Gruber created the familiar carol “Silent Night,” Angelus Silesius had written:

Lo! in the silent night a child to God is born,
And all is brought again that ere was lost or lorn.
Could but thy soul, O man, become a silent night
God would be born in thee and set all things aright.

Jesus, thank You for being born into this dark world so that we might be born again into Your life & light.
Silesius, a Polish monk, published the poem in 1657 in The Cherubic Pilgrim.During our church’s annual Christmas Eve service, the choir sang a beautiful rendition of the song titled “Could but Thy Soul Become a Silent Night.”

The twofold mystery of Christmas is that God became one of us so that we might become one with Him. Jesus suffered everything that was wrong so that we could be made right. That’s why the apostle Paul could write, “If anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone; the new is here! All this is from God who reconciled us to himself through Christ” (2 Cor. 5:17–18).

Whether our Christmas is filled with family and friends or empty of all we long for, we know that Jesus came to be born in us.

Ah, would thy heart but be a manger for the birth,
God would once more become a child on earth.

Lord Jesus, thank You for being born into this dark world so that we might be born again into Your life and light.

God became one of us so that we might become one with Him.

By David C. McCasland | See Other Authors
INSIGHT
At the heart of the concept of becoming one with Christ is His work of reconciliation in us. In today’s passage, Paul weaves several themes together—life, love, new creation, and the ministry of reconciliation—all framed by a call to act with urgency. It is because of Jesus’s life, death, and resurrection that we can be reconciled to God. Those who accept Christ’s gift of reconciliation must “no longer live for themselves” (2 Cor. 5:15). Instead, we are compelled to view everyone differently (v. 16), as people in dire need of Christ’s reconciliation. And what is this reconciliation? God will no longer “[count] people’s sins against them” (v. 19). With urgency, Paul tells us that we are now Christ’s ambassadors of reconciliation and says, “We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God” (v. 20, emphasis added).

With whom can you share this offer of reconciliation today?

Tim Gustaftson

 

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God with Us
December 23, 2017

Read: Matthew 1:18–23 | Bible in a Year: Nahum 1–3; Revelation 14

The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel. Matthew 1:23

“Christ with me, Christ before me, Christ behind me, Christ within me, Christ beneath me, Christ above me, Christ at my right, Christ at my left . . .” These hymn lyrics, written by the fifth-century Celtic Christian St. Patrick, echo in my mind when I read Matthew’s account of Jesus’s birth. They feel like a warm embrace, reminding me that I’m never alone.

Matthew’s account tells us that God dwelling with His people is at the heart of Christmas. Quoting Isaiah’s prophecy of a child who would be called Immanuel, meaning “God with us” (Isa. 7:14), Matthew points to the ultimate fulfillment of that prophecy—Jesus, the One born by the power of the Holy Spirit to be God with us. This truth is so central that Matthew begins and ends his gospel with it, concluding with Jesus’s words to His disciples: “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age” (Matt. 28:20).

God’s love became Incarnate at Bethlehem.
St. Patrick’s lyrics remind me that Christ is with believers always through His Spirit living within. When I’m nervous or afraid, I can hold fast to His promises that He will never leave me. When I can’t fall asleep, I can ask Him to give me His peace. When I’m celebrating and filled with joy, I can thank Him for His gracious work in my life.

Jesus, Immanuel—God with us.

Father God, thank You for sending Your Son to be God with us. May we experience Your presence this day.

God’s love became Incarnate at Bethlehem.

By Amy Boucher Pye | See Other Authors
INSIGHT
We can only imagine the emotions Joseph experienced when he discovered his fiancée was pregnant. But in a dream he was told that Mary’s child was conceived supernaturally by the Holy Spirit. In obedience to this divine revelation, Joseph took her as his wife and did not consummate the marriage until she had given birth to the child.

The Father, Son, and Spirit all share in our redemption. God took on human form and came to Earth to live among us. Jesus was conceived by the Holy Spirit and the Spirit now dwells within us (1 Peter 1:11; Gal. 4:6; 1 Cor. 6:19).

How does knowing Christ is present in your life through the ministry of the Holy Spirit encourage you?

Dennis Fisher

 

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"And the angel said unto them, 'Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.'" Luke 2:10-11

A HOLY TRADITION
December 24, 2017

At every Christmas Eve service, the members of our church are blessed to hear our Worship Pastor sing “O Holy Night.” This has become such a tradition that the thought of a Christmas Eve service without it is…well…hard to imagine!

Here are some interesting tidbits:

• On Christmas Eve in 1906, Reginald Fessenden, broadcast the first radio program, where he played “O Holy Night” on the violin. Therefore, the carol is the first piece of music to be broadcast on radio.
• “O Holy Night” (“Cantique de Noël”) was set to music by Adolphe Adam in 1847 to the lyrics of a French poem written by Placide Cappeau, a wine merchant and poet. Cappeau had been asked to write a Christmas poem by a parish priest.
• And here is something I’ve never been able to figure out. Since “O Holy Night” was composed in French, why does the English translation rhyme?

The music is so overpowering in its beauty that we sometimes fail to notice the perfection of the lyrics. Read these lyrics, a magnificent poem, and contemplate the wonder and blessing of Jesus’ birth:

Oh holy night! The stars are brightly shining,

It is the night of our dear Savior’s birth.

Long lay the world in sin and error pining,

Till He appear’d and the soul felt its worth.

A thrill of hope the weary world rejoices,

For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn.

Fall on your knees! Oh, hear the angels’ voices!

Oh night divine, Oh night when Christ was born;

Oh night divine, Oh night, Oh night Divine.

 

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"…and she gave birth to her first son. Because there were no rooms left in the inn, she wrapped the baby with pieces of cloth and laid him in a feeding trough." Luke 2:7 NCV

DO YOU KNOW THE REAL STORY OF JESUS’ BIRTH?
December 25, 2017

Read the Scripture again. This is the New Century Version of the most familiar pieces of Scripture in the Bible. What’s that? “…and laid him in a feeding trough?” Not quite the way you recall the story? So, what happened to the soft, swaddling clothes and the quaint little manger?

You see, it’s easy for us to sanitize the reality of the situation, and remove some of the irony, but the fact is the Savior of Mankind, the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, was born, wrapped in rags, and set to rest in a nasty, icky trough that was used to feed pigs and cows.

Why would a mother allow this for her child? Well, she had no choice, because there was no room for them anywhere else. Perhaps a better question would be, “Why would our Father permit His Child to be treated in this manner?” Well, in addition to prophecy being fulfilled, maybe God also knew that His Child had to experience humanity. He needed to know what it was like to be homeless, helpless, and in poverty. Later, He needed to understand hunger, the death of loved ones, persecution, and even death itself. Jesus needed to experience mankind – as He came to die for mankind.

And that, my friends, is the real, unvarnished Christmas story.

Merry Christmas and God bless you all!

 

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“But to Jonah this seemed very wrong, and he became angry… ‘Now, Lord, take away my life, for it is better for me to die than to live.’ But the Lord replied, ‘Is it right for you to be angry?’” Jonah 4: 1, 3-4

EVEN BIBLE GREATS STRUGGLED WITH DEPRESSION
January 2, 2018

Some people find renewed hope and meaning in the new year. But, some find that it’s just the beginning of another year of sadness and depression.

Well, you’re not alone.

Jonah was depressed. Having just witnessed the entire city of Nineveh immediately repent and cry out to God after a one sentence sermon, Jonah should have been overjoyed. Instead, he was upset and frustrated. You see, the people of Nineveh were incredibly wicked and Jonah preferred they meet God’s judgement rather than His mercy. When things didn’t go according to JONAH’Splan, his anger turned inward and he became depressed.

Jonah’s depression wasn’t a chemical depression that many struggle with today. This was the type of depression that appears when life isn’t going the way we think it should. It’s when discouragement and unresolved anger builds and eventually turns into depression. And, Jonah wasn’t the only Biblical prophet to struggle with depression.

After Moses led the Israelites out of captivity in Egypt, he spent 40 years in the wilderness listening to the people complain. Eventually it became too much and Moses wanted nothing more than to die. Elijah, perhaps the greatest prophet in the Bible, went from a literal mountaintop experience witnessing God defeat the prophets of Baal to running for his life. Fear coupled with exhaustion led him into a deep depression. Then there’s Job who suddenly lost his children, his livelihood, health and wealth. It’s understandable that Job found himself contemplating if life was worth living. In each of these stories, we read how God helped them through those tough seasons. Today, their lives and stories are ones we remember as “greats” of the faith.

What do you do when life doesn’t meet your expectations? If you’re struggling with depression, you are not alone. Go to God and ask Him for perspective. Ask Him for the strength to seek help and to leave this season stronger than you began. He’s waiting for you now!

 

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What Do the Experts Say?
January 4, 2018

Read: John 5:31–40 | Bible in a Year: Genesis 10–12; Matthew 4
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These are the very Scriptures that testify about me, yet you refuse to come to me to have life. John 5:39–40

Boston Globe columnist Jeff Jacoby writes of the “uncanny ability of experts to get things hopelessly, cataclysmically wrong.” A quick glance at recent history shows he’s right. The great inventor Thomas Edison, for instance, once declared that talking movies would never replace silent films. And in 1928, Henry Ford declared, “People are becoming too intelligent ever to have another war.” Countless other predictions by “experts” have missed the mark badly. Genius obviously has its limits.

Only one Person is completely reliable, and He had strong words for some so-called experts. The religious leaders of Jesus’s day claimed to have the truth. These scholars and theologians thought they knew what the promised Messiah would be like when He arrived.

Knowing the future is uncertain; knowing the One who holds the future is a sure thing.
Jesus cautioned them, “You study the Scriptures diligently because you think that in them you have eternal life.” Then He pointed out how they were missing the heart of the matter. “These are the very Scriptures that testify about me, yet you refuse to come to me to have life” (John 5:39–40).

As another new year gets underway, we’ll hear predictions ranging from the terrifying to the wildly optimistic. Many of them will be stated with a great deal of confidence and authority. Don’t be alarmed. Our confidence remains in the One at the very heart of the Scriptures. He has a firm grip on us and on our future.

Father, whenever we are troubled or alarmed, help us to seek You. We commit this coming year and all it holds to You.

Knowing the future is uncertain; knowing the One who holds the future is a sure thing.

By Tim Gustafson | See Other Authors
INSIGHT
An Old Testament example of “experts” who missed the mark is the account of the “wise men” in the book of Daniel. King Nebuchadnezzar ordered them to explain his dreams, but these experts admitted, “No one can reveal it to the king except the gods, and they do not live among humans” (2:11). However, God enabled Daniel to explain the dreams, and he told the king: “No wise man . . . can explain . . . the mystery. . . , but there is a God in heaven who reveals mysteries” (vv. 27–28). The king’s experts were right to say no one can reveal mysteries except God, but they were clearly wrong that God does “not live among humans” (v. 11). The Scriptures tell us, “The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us” (John 1:14).

How does knowing Jesus is God and lives in us through the Spirit give you confidence in this world of uncertainty?

Sim Kay Tee

 

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"Then (Elijah) said, 'I have been very zealous for the Lord, the God of hosts; for the sons of Israel have forsaken Your covenant, torn down Your altars and killed Your prophets with the sword. And I alone am left; and they seek my life, to take it away.'" I Kings 19: 14

TRUTH FOR TROUBLED TIMES
January 7, 2018



The prophet Elijah’s life tells a powerful story. It’s full of boldness, faith and miraculously answered prayers. Still, Elijah struggled with fear, depression and self-pity – things many of us battle today. You can read his full story in 1 Kings chapters 17 and 18. For those of us struggling in these areas, what can we learn from the life of Elijah?

1. Fear comes when we lose sight of God. Elijah became fearful by shifting his focus from God to wicked Queen Jezebel’s threats. The same is true for us. When we focus more on the problem than on God, fear replaces faith.
2. Life is full of ups and downs. Sometimes life’s “blues” settle-in after a spiritual high point or some great excitement in life. In Elijah’s case, these feelings arrived after God’s miraculous answer to prayer in his showdown with false prophets and in ending a 3.5-year drought. In spite of all Elijah witnessed, he was completely exhausted: emotionally, physically, and spiritually. Don’t let yourself be caught off guard by these normal ups and downs of life.
3. Unresolved anger leads to self-pity and depression. In verse 14, Elijah let out some brutally honest complaints to God. He let his self-righteousness and self-pity take control of his life.Unresolved anger can lead to deep depression if we aren’t careful.
4. Hope lost is deadly. When Elijah lost hope, he began to hope for death. It’s no secret that suicidal thoughts can accompany severe depression. Losing the will to live has been a struggle battled by some of the greatest men of faith: Moses when leading the Israelites out of Egypt, Job after losing literally everything, and the prophet Jeremiah when preaching to an uninterested people – just to name a few.

If you are struggling with fear, hopelessness or depression, you’re not alone. Be honest with God in your prayers, seek out a trusted friend or professional for support, and learn from Elijah’s story. Confess your self-pity to God. Don’t let unresolved anger keep you down.

 

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“And he was afraid and arose and ran for his life and came to Beersheba, which belongs to Judah, and left his servant there. But he himself went a day’s journey into the wilderness, and came and sat down under a juniper tree; and he requested for himself that he might die, and said, “It is enough; now, O Lord, take my life, for I am not better than my fathers.”

I Kings 19: 3-4



WHEN THE MIRACLE MAN STRUGGLES
January 8, 2018

The prophet Elijah was the “miracle man.” When he prayed for the rain to stop, it did – for 3.5 years. When he prayed for a single mom’s dead son, the boy was brought back to life. And when Elijah prayed for God to rain down fire from heaven in a battle against the false prophets to the idol Baal, God answered. Elijah had first-hand experience of God’s power, so why was he afraid and depressed?

When Elijah defeated all the prophets of Baal by praying for God to rain down from Heaven and burn up their man made alter, Queen Jezebel was not happy. As a powerful advocate of the false god, Baal, she threatened Elijah by issuing a death warrant for him. Now remember, this man had been fearless in confronting the evil king (her husband) and hundreds Baal’s prophets. Yet at Jezebel’s threat, Elijah became so overwhelmed by fear and depression that this great man of faith wanted to die. After such courageous faith, how could this be?

Elijah had experienced an incredible spiritual high. He saw the supernatural power of God and witnessed the people turn back towards God. Yet, Elijah was emotionally, spiritually, and physically spent. When it comes to emotions, what goes up, must come down. Spiritual and emotional highs are often followed by “the blues” and depression.

So how did God respond?

1. God cared for Elijah by providing for his physical needs by bringing him food and water.
2. God cared for Elijah’s emotional needs by giving him time to rest.
3. Finally, God cared for Elijah’s spiritual needs by speaking to him in a “still, small voice.”

In the same way, God wants to care for us when we’re fearful, depressed, and just plain exhausted. Are you feeling let down, depressed or emotionally worn-out? Allow God to minister to you. Just like Elijah, God wants to meet your needs, physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

 

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Growing a Servant’s Heart
January 10, 2018

Read: Luke 22:24–30 | Bible in a Year: Genesis 25–26; Matthew 8:1–17


I am among you as one who serves. Luke 22:27

It was a long day at work. But when I got home, it was time to start my “other” job: being a good dad. Greetings from my wife and kids soon became, “Dad, what’s for dinner?” “Dad, can you get me some water?” “Dad, can we play soccer?”

I just wanted to sit down. And even though part of me really wanted to be a good dad, I didn’t feel like serving my family’s needs. That’s when I saw it: a thank-you card my wife had received from someone at church. It pictured a bowl of water, a towel, and dirty sandals. Across the bottom were these words from Luke 22:27: “I am among you as one who serves.”

Lord, help us to become more like You.
That statement of Jesus’s mission, to serve those He came to seek and save (Luke 19:10), was exactly what I needed. If Jesus was willing to do the dirtiest of jobs for His followers—like scrubbing His followers’ no doubt filthy feet (John 13:1–17)—I could get my son a cup of water without grumbling about it. In that moment, I was reminded that my family’s requests to serve them weren’t merely an obligation, but an opportunity to reflect Jesus’s servant heart and His love to them. When requests are made of us, they are chances to become more like the One who served His followers by laying down His life for us.

Lord, sometimes it’s hard to serve others’ needs. Help us to become more like You, willing to express Your love in the many opportunities we have to serve those around us each day.

God’s love for us empowers us to serve others.

Our Daily Bread welcomes writer Adam Holz! Meet Adam and all our authors at odb.org/all-authors.

By Adam Holz | See Other Authors
INSIGHT
Not only did Jesus model a servant’s heart, serving was an ongoing theme in His teaching—and one that His disciples consistently forgot. In one of Jesus’s last public discourses He said, “The greatest among you will be your servant” (Matthew 23:11). Then in John 13:1–17 He modeled that attitude by washing the disciples’ feet—embracing a task usually reserved for the lowest servant in the household. However, just hours later, the disciples argued about which of them deserved the highest position! (Luke 22:24). Tragically, this dispute took place as they were walking to Gethsemane, where the events leading up to Jesus’s time of suffering would begin.

How does reflecting on the heart of our Master and His call for us to be servants encourage you when you are called to serve others?

Bill Crowder

 

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An Angry God?
January 13, 2018

Read: Exodus 33:18–19; 34:1–7 | Bible in a Year: Genesis 31–32; Matthew 9:18–38



The Lord, the Lord, the compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness. Exodus 34:6

When I studied Greek and Roman mythology in college, I was struck by how moody and easily angered the mythological gods were in the stories. The people on the receiving end of their anger found their lives destroyed, sometimes on a whim.

I was quick to scoff, wondering how anyone could believe in gods like that. But then I asked myself, Is my view of the God who actually exists much different? Don’t I view Him as easily angered whenever I doubt Him? Sadly, yes.

Father God, I’m grateful that You are always compassionate, forgiving, and faithful.
That’s why I appreciate Moses’s request of God to “show me your glory” (Exodus 33:18). Having been chosen to lead a large group of people who often grumbled against him, Moses wanted to know that God would indeed help him with this great task. Moses’s request was rewarded by a demonstration of God’s glory. God announced to Moses His name and characteristics. He is “the compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness” (34:6).

This verse reminded me that God is not impulsive, suddenly striking out in anger. That’s reassuring, especially when I consider the times I’ve lashed out at Him in anger or impatience. Also, He continually works to make me more like Himself.

We can see God and His glory in His patience with us, the encouraging word of a friend, a beautiful sunset, or—best of all—the whisper of the Holy Spirit inside of us.

Father God, I’m grateful that You are always compassionate, forgiving, and faithful.

Though we often change, God never does.

By Linda Washington | See Other Authors
INSIGHT
Being exposed to God’s perfect character drew two responses from Moses. He first responded with worship (34:8), and then he acknowledged the need for forgiveness (v. 9). These continue to be important responses toward our loving God who is perfectly holy, compassionate, and forgiving.

What is your response to God’s loving forgiveness?

 

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Knowing and Loving
January 14, 2018

Read: John 10:7–16 | Bible in a Year: Genesis 33–35; Matthew 10:1–20

My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. John 10:27

“Jesus loves me, this I know, for the Bible tells me so” is the message of one of Christian music’s most enduring songs, particularly for children. Written by Anna B. Warner in the 1800s, this lyric tenderly affirms our relationship with Him—we are loved.

Someone gave my wife a plaque for our home that gives these words a fresh twist by flipping that simple idea. It reads, “Jesus knows me, this I love.” This provides a different perspective on our relationship with Him—we are known.

The wonder of it all—just to think that Jesus loves me!
In ancient Israel, loving and knowing the sheep distinguished a true shepherd from a hired hand. The shepherd spent so much time with his sheep that he developed an abiding care for and a deep knowledge of his lambs. Little wonder then that Jesus tells His own, “I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me. . . . My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me” (John 10:14, 27).

He knows us and He loves us! We can trust Jesus’s purposes for us and rest in the promise of His care because His Father “knows what [we] need before [we] ask him” (Matthew 6:8). As you deal with the ups and downs of life today, be at rest. You are known and loved by the Shepherd of your heart.

Dear Lord, thank You for how You tenderly love and care for me. Help me to trust You in all areas of my life.

The wonder of it all—just to think that Jesus loves me!

By Bill Crowder | See Other Authors
INSIGHT
When we experience difficulties, it helps to read about God’s faithfulness to others. Psalms 77 and 78 describe Asaph’s trials that caused him to doubt God’s love for him (77:7–9). Having experienced God’s presence in the past, he yearned to experience that same closeness yet again (vv. 1–6). As he recalled how God had mightily rescued and redeemed His people from slavery in Egypt (vv. 10–20; 78:1–55), he is assured of God’s presence. He confidently speaks of God as the Shepherd who “brought his people out like a flock” and “led them like sheep through the wilderness” (78:52).

How does the image of God as a Shepherd help you as you go through difficult days?

K. T. Sim

 

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“Then you will be handed over to be persecuted and put to death, and you will be hated by all nations because of me. At that time, many will turn away from the faith and will betray and hate each other.” Matthew 24: 9-10

SIGNS OF THE END TIMES: PERSECUTION
January 15, 2018

What will the End Times look like? When will it happen? Jesus answered these questions by highlighting certain signs which will point to the His second coming. One such sign is an increase in persecution towards believers.

We know that Jesus’ disciples would go on to face severe persecution for preaching the Gospel. All but one would be martyred for their faith. But persecution didn’t end in the first century. From ancient Rome to the 20th century, Christians have been persecuted to the point of death around the world. In fact, scholars believe that more Christians were martyred in the 20thcentury than all previous centuries combined!

So how does the Western Christian, whose life isn’t often on the line for their beliefs, respond when ridiculed or rejected for their faith? Firstly, don’t take it personally. It’s not you they hate, but Jesus. Secondly, remember that it’s a sign of the times. Persecution will only increase as we move closer towards Jesus’ second coming. Finally, pray for the global persecuted Church to remain strong in their faith. To be a faithful witness amidst persecution is the number one prayer request of the persecuted church to Western Christians. Increased persecution is another sign that we are living in the end times.

 

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The Power of Prayer
January 16, 2018

Read: 1 Samuel 7:7–14 | Bible in a Year: Genesis 39–40; Matthew 11



Do not stop crying out to the Lord our God for us, that he may rescue us. 1 Samuel 7:8

One day, when I was deeply concerned about the welfare of one close to me, I found encouragement in part of the Old Testament story of Samuel, a wise leader of the Israelites. As I read how Samuel interceded for God’s people as they faced trouble, I strengthened my resolve to pray for the one I loved.

The Israelites faced the threat of the Philistines, who had previously defeated them when God’s people didn’t trust in Him (see 1 Samuel 4). After repenting of their sins, they heard that the Philistines were about to attack. This time, however, they asked Samuel to continue praying for them (7:8), and the Lord answered clearly by throwing their enemy into confusion (v. 10). Though the Philistines may have been mightier than the Israelites, the Lord was the strongest of them all.

Father, strengthen my faith, that I will always believe in Your goodness and love.
When we ache over the challenges facing those we love, and fear the situation won’t change, we may be tempted to believe that the Lord will not act. But we should never underestimate the power of prayer, for our loving God hears our pleas. We don’t know how He will move in response to our petitions, but we know that as our Father He longs for us to embrace His love and to trust in His faithfulness.

Do you have someone you can pray for today?

Father God, the way You hear and answer my prayers amazes me. Strengthen my faith, that I will always believe in Your goodness and love.

Share your prayer request or pray for others at YourDailyBread.org/prayer.

God hears us when we pray.



By Amy Boucher Pye | See Other Authors
INSIGHT
Samuel led his people to worship of the one true God (1 Samuel 7:1–6). Prayer was central to Samuel’s ministry (v. 9); in response to his intercession, God gave the nation victory over the Philistines (vv. 7–13). To commemorate this God-inspired victory, Samuel erected a remembrance stone he called Ebenezer, which means “stone of help.” It can also serve as a reminder to us not to underestimate the power of God to respond to our prayers!

For further study see Let’s Pray at discoveryseries.org/hp135.

Dennis Fisher

 

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Growing Gratitude
January 17, 2018

Read: Romans 11:33–36 | Bible in a Year: Genesis 41–42; Matthew 12:1–23

For from him and through him and for him are all things. Romans 11:36

Would you like to cultivate a greater sense of gratitude? George Herbert, a seventeenth-century British poet, encourages readers toward that goal in his poem “Gratefulness”: “Thou that hast given so much to me, give one thing more: a grateful heart.”

Herbert recognized the only thing he needed in order to be thankful was simply an awareness of the blessings God had already given him.

For from him and through him and for him are all things. Romans 11:36
The Bible declares Christ Jesus as the source of all blessing in Romans 11:36, “For from him and through him and for him are all things.” “All things” encompasses both the extravagant and the mundane, everyday gifts in our lives. Everything we receive in life comes directly from our heavenly Father (James 1:17), and He willingly gives us those gifts out of His love for us.

To expand my awareness of God’s blessings in my life, I am learning to cultivate a heart that acknowledges the source of all the joys I experience each day, but especially the ones I often take for granted. Today those included a crisp morning to run, the anticipation of an evening with friends, a stocked pantry so I could make French toast with my daughters, the beauty of the world outside my window, and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee.

What is the “so much” that God has already given to you? Opening our eyes to those blessings will help us to develop grateful hearts.

Take a few minutes to thank God for what comes to your mind right now. Try to do that throughout the day as well.

When you think of all that’s good, thank God.

Welcome to Lisa Samra! Meet all our authors at odb.org/all-authors.

By Lisa Samra | See Other Authors
INSIGHT
Do you tend to think of yourself as more or less thankful than other people? Consider how the apostle Paul used that question to set a love-trap for some of his readers. Early in his letter to the Romans he describes those who have no interest in worshiping or giving thanks to their Creator (Romans 1:21). For the rest of chapter he describes the unraveling lives of those who refuse to acknowledge the goodness of their God.

Then it happens. Paul anticipates that someone has taken the bait. With no warning he asks his readers whether they really think they are any different than the unthankful sinners he has been condemning (2:1). Paul then spends much of the rest of his letter giving his readers reasons to give thanks to God for revealing in Christ the greatest good news the world has ever heard. Just before erupting in his great expression of worshipful praise to God (11:33–36), Paul concludes, “For God has bound everyone over to disobedience so that he may have mercy on them all” (v. 32).

In the smallest kindness, a thankful heart can sense the greatness of our God.

 

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Dealing with Delay
January 18, 2018

Read: Genesis 45:1–8 | Bible in a Year: Genesis 43–45; Matthew 12:24–50

So then, it was not you who sent me here, but God. Genesis 45:8

A global computer system outage causes widespread flight cancellations, stranding hundreds of thousands of passengers at airports. During a winter storm, multiple auto accidents close major highways. The person who promised to send a reply “right away” has failed to do so. Delays can often produce anger and frustration, but as followers of Jesus, we have the privilege of looking to Him for help.

One of the Bible’s great examples of patience is Joseph, who was sold to slave traders by his jealous brothers, falsely accused by his employer’s wife, and imprisoned in Egypt. “But while Joseph was there in the prison, the Lord was with him” (Genesis 39:20–21). Years later, when Joseph interpreted Pharaoh’s dreams, he was made second in command in Egypt (ch. 41).

Confidence in God enables us to live out our faith patiently.
The most remarkable fruit of his patience occurred when his brothers came to buy grain during a famine. “I am your brother Joseph,” he told them, “the one you sold into Egypt! And now, do not be distressed and do not be angry with yourselves for selling me here, because it was to save lives that God sent me ahead of you. . . . So then, it was not you who sent me here, but God” (45:4–5, 8).

In all our delays, brief or long, may we, like Joseph, gain patience, perspective, and peace as we trust in the Lord.

Father in heaven, in all of our delays may we trust Your faithful hand of guidance and experience Your presence with us in every situation.

Confidence in God enables us to live out our faith patiently.

By David C. McCasland | See Other Authors
INSIGHT
When we are going through a difficult season, we can find comfort and encouragement by looking at how God worked in Joseph’s difficult—even seemingly hopeless—circumstances. We learn to ask the questions: Why does God have me here? What does He have in store for me or want to do through me? Joseph came to realize that it was God who had placed him in his situation (see Genesis 45:8; 50:20).

We also learn something about God’s timing. It only takes a few moments for us to read Joseph’s story, but his trial lasted for years. His imprisonment may have been to fulfill God’s purposes (interpreting Pharaoh’s dreams) but the timing was also God’s.

How does knowing that God is in control help you as you wait for Him to work?

 

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‘Then Elijah said to the people, “I alone am left a prophet of the Lord, but Baal’s prophets are 450 men. Now let them give us two oxen; and let them choose one ox for themselves and cut it up, and place it on the wood, but put no fire under it; and I will prepare the other ox and lay it on the wood, and I will not put a fire under it. Then you call on the name of your god, and I will call on the name of the Lord, and the God who answers by fire, He is God.” And all the people said, “That is a good idea.”’

I Kings 18: 22-24

THE ULTIMATE SHOWDOWN
January 18, 2018

It all started when King Ahab turned his back on God and built a statue to Baal, the god of rain. In a moment of true irony, that’s when the rain stopped. Three and a half years later the people began calling out both for rain and God. That’s when Elijah showed up for the ultimate showdown: Elijah and the One True God vs 450 prophets of Baal.

Elijah and the prophets of Baal each built an altar and prepared a sacrifice. There was just one catch – no fire. It was to be a burnt offering, but both sides would pray and ask their God or god to bring down fire. The prophets of Baal went first. They prayed, they chanted, and they called out – but nothing happened. Hours passed without a response. Elijah suggested they pray louder (maybe their gods had gone to sleep), but still they had no answer. Finally, it was Elijah’s turn.

Taking his time, Elijah built the altar and prepared the sacrifice, soaking the altar in water (a precious commodity after 3.5 years of drought). He did this just to make sure there would be no possible human explanation for what God would do. Then Elijah prayed. Immediately fire fell from the sky consuming not just the offering, but the stone altar and all the water. Talk about an incredible demonstration of God’s power. Awesome!

Elijah trusted God even when it didn’t make sense, even when it meant going against what was popular – and God showed up. What about you? When life becomes difficult or doesn’t make sense, will you remain grounded in your faith or will you turn to false idols of our day?

 

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“‘Now Elijah said to Ahab, ‘Go up, eat and drink; for there is the sound of the roar of a heavy shower.’ So, Ahab went up to eat and drink. But Elijah went up to the top of Carmel; and he crouched down on the earth and put his face between his knees. … It came about at the seventh time, that he said, ‘Behold, a cloud as small as a man’s hand is coming up from the sea.’ And he said, ‘Go up, say to Ahab, “Prepare your chariot and go down, so that the heavy shower does not stop you.’”

1 Kings 18: 41, 42 & 44

BECOMING A PERSON OF PRAYER
January 19, 2018

In the mid 1800s, George Mueller ran an orphanage in England. One morning he faced a real crisis – there was no food for breakfast. So he sat down and prayed a simple prayer, thanking God for providing what they didn’t have and had no way of obtaining on their own. Suddenly, there was a knock on the door. It was a baker offering fresh bread. Next a milkman appeared. Talk about a miraculous answer to a very simple prayer. Muller began a life of asking God to meet their needs. Time and time again, God used men and women to provide (and amazingly this happened without Muller sharing these needs with others).

Mueller wasn’t the only one to experience miraculous answers to prayer. In 1 Kings, we read the story of the prophet Elijah. After three and a half years of drought, Elijah told King Ahab to expect a huge rainstorm. Then he prayed. Seven times Elijah sent his servant to check for any sign of rain until he spotted a very tiny rain cloud on the horizon. Then Elijah said, “Go tell King Ahab a huge downpour is on the way.” This small cloud turned into a miraculous answer to prayer.

What does it take to become a person of tremendous prayer and faith like Elijah?

1. Righteousness. (James 5:15) To be righteous means to be right with God, walking with and trusting God – even when it isn’t popular. James tells us that the prayer of a righteous man accomplishes a lot.
2. Persistence. (James 4:2b) Elijah prayed persistently in God’s will – and this is key. Too often we pray for things we want rather than things God wants. It comes down to the motives behind our prayers – is it about ME or about GOD?
3. Faith. Elijah prayed with great faith. From overcoming the prophets of Baal (850 of them to 1 of him), to informing the King of Israel that he better hurry on home before getting caught in the storm when it hadn’t rained in over three years – Elijah had incredible faith.

Today, what our homes and families, churches and communities need now more than ever before are people who pray powerful prayers. Just like Elijah and George Mueller, two ordinary men who believed in an extraordinary God. You too can become a person of powerful prayer.

 

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It’s in the Attitude
January 22, 2018

Read: James 1:1–12 | Bible in a Year: Exodus 4–6; Matthew 14:22–36




Consider it pure joy . . . whenever you face trials of many kinds. James 1:2

Regina drove home from work discouraged and tired. The day had started with tragic news in a text message from a friend, then spiraled downward in meetings with co-workers who refused to work with any of her ideas. As Regina was talking to the Lord, she thought it best to put the stress of the day aside and made a surprise visit with flowers to an elderly friend at a care center. Her spirits lifted as Maria shared how good the Lord was to her. She said, "I have my own bed and a chair, three meals a day, and help from the nurses here. And occasionally God sends a cardinal to my window just because He knows I love them and He loves me."

Attitude. Perspective. As the saying goes, “Life is 10 percent what happens to us and 90 percent how we react to it.” The people James wrote to were scattered because of persecution, and he asked them to consider their perspective about difficulties. He challenged them with these words: “Consider it pure joy . . . whenever you face trials of many kinds” (James 1:2).

“Consider it pure joy . . . whenever you face trials of many kinds.” James 1:2
We are each on our own journey of learning to trust God with hard circumstances. The kind of joy-filled perspective James talked about comes as we learn to see that God can use struggles to produce maturity in our faith.

Lord, please change my attitude about hard times. Bring about joy, perseverance, and maturity in me.

God can bring times of growth out of our times of heartache.



By Anne Cetas | See Other Authors
INSIGHT
When James says, “Believers in humble circumstances ought to take pride in their high position” (1:9), he reflects the paradox of Jesus’s words in the Beatitudes. “Blessed are the poor in spirit,” said Jesus, describing those who are spiritually humble, “for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:3).

No one wants to suffer, but without testing, there is no perseverance. And without perseverance, there is no spiritual growth and the eternal reward that comes with it.

How might you choose to respond when you find yourself in humble or difficult circumstances?

 

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"But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all that I said to you." - John 14:26

THE HOLY SPIRIT – PART 1
January 23, 2018

Here’s something interesting. The verse above is from the New American Standard version; it translates the Greek word “paraclete” (which means the “Holy Spirit”) as the Helper. Compare this with other translations:

• The King James Version translates Helper as Comforter.
• The New International Version translates Helper as Counselor.
• The New English Version translates Helper as Advocate.

All four translations give us a more complete picture of the Holy Spirit. He is Helper, Advocate, Counselor, and Comforter.

1. Helper = He empowers us with a “want to” to follow Christ in faith.
2. Advocate = He reminds us that God is for us and loves us.
3. Counselor = He is our teacher and guides us in how to understand and apply God’s Word to our everyday life. He gives us wisdom.
4. Comforter = He is our greatest, most compassionate encourager in a time of need.

To know God – know Jesus in faith. To know Jesus is to receive a great gift – the gift of the Holy Spirit.

 

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Holy, Holy, Holy
January 26, 2018

Read: Revelation 4 | Bible in a Year: Exodus 14–15; Matthew 17

https://odb.org/wp-content/themes/odbm-base/assets/download.php?file=https://dzxuyknqkmi1e.cloudfront.net/odb/2018/01/odb-01-26-18.mp3
Day and night they never stop saying: “ ‘Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty,’ who was, and is, and is to come.” Revelation 4:8

“Time flies when you’re having fun.” This cliché has no basis in fact, but experience makes it seem true.

When life is pleasant, time passes all too quickly. Give me a task that I enjoy, or a person whose company I love, and time seems irrelevant.

“ ‘Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty,’ who was, and is, and is to come.” Revelation 4:8
My experience of this “reality” has given me a new understanding of the scene described in Revelation 4. In the past, when I considered the four living creatures seated around God’s throne who keep repeating the same few words, I thought, What a boring existence!

I don’t think that anymore. I think about the scenes they have witnessed with their many eyes (v. 8). I consider the view they have from their position around God’s throne (v. 6). I think of how amazed they are at God’s wise and loving involvement with wayward earthlings. Then I think, What better response could there be? What else is there to say but, “Holy, holy, holy”?

Is it boring to say the same words over and over? Not when you’re in the presence of the one you love. Not when you’re doing exactly what you were designed to do.

Like the four creatures, we were designed to glorify God. Our lives will never be boring if we’re focusing our attention on Him and fulfilling that purpose.

Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty! Early in the morning our song shall rise to Thee; holy, holy, holy! Merciful and mighty! God in three Persons, blessed Trinity! Reginald Heber

The author of this article, Julie, is now worshiping her Lord in heaven.

A heart in tune with God can’t help but sing His praise.