Daily Devotion

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Watchful Care
July 23, 2018

Read: Jeremiah 23:20–24 | Bible in a Year: Psalms 33–34; Acts 24
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“Do not I fill heaven and earth?” declares the Lord. Jeremiah 23:24

Before he raced out the door to school, I asked my son if he had brushed his teeth. Asking again, I reminded him of the importance of telling the truth. Unmoved by my gentle admonishment, he half-jokingly informed me that what I really needed was a security camera in the bathroom. Then I could check for myself if he had brushed his teeth and he wouldn’t be tempted to lie.

While the presence of a security camera may help remind us to follow the rules, there are still places we can go unnoticed or ways we can avoid being seen. Although we may evade or trick a security camera, we fool ourselves if we think we are ever outside the gaze of God.

God asks, “Who can hide in secret places so that I cannot see them?” (Jeremiah 23:24). There is both an encouragement and a warning in His question.

The warning is that we cannot hide from God. We can’t outrun or fool Him. Everything we do is visible to Him.

The encouragement is that there is no place on earth or in the heavens where we are outside the watchful care of our heavenly Father. Even when we feel alone, God is with us. No matter where we go today, may the awareness of that truth encourage us to choose obedience to His Word and receive comfort—He watches over us.

Lord Jesus, thank You that there is nowhere I can go that is outside of Your loving gaze. Knowing You see me, help me to honor You with my words and actions.

We are never outside the watchful care of our heavenly Father.

By Lisa Samra | See Other Authors
INSIGHT
The rich theme of God’s constant care for us we see in today’s text is also seen in the psalms. David, threatened by powerful enemies, found great comfort and strength in knowing that God knew everything about him (Psalm 139:1–6). He marveled that the omniscient, omnipotent God was always present with him. Acknowledging there was no place where he was outside of God’s provision and protection, David affirmed: “I can never get away from your presence!” (v. 7 nlt). When we realize the all-powerful God—who knows all about us—is constantly with us, it will impact how we live (vv. 23–24). The writer of Hebrews says, “Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account” (4:13). Therefore, let’s be quick to run to Him for refuge for “the eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him” (2 Chronicles 16:9).

Are you hemmed in by life’s trials and troubles? Refresh yourself with knowing that God knows and He cares.



K. T. Sim

 

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Perfect Imperfection
July 25, 2018

Read: Ephesians 3:8–19 | Bible in a Year: Psalms 37–39; Acts 26


I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being. Ephesians 3:16

A college professor of mine, picking up on my perfectionism-induced procrastination, gave me some wise advice. “Don’t let perfect be the enemy of good,” he said, explaining that striving for perfect performance can prevent the risks necessary for growth. Accepting that my work would always be imperfect would give me the freedom to keep growing.

The apostle Paul explained an even more profound reason to let go of our own efforts to perfect ourselves: it can blind us to our need for Christ.

Paul had learned this the hard way. After years striving to perfectly obey God’s law, encountering Jesus changed everything (Galatians 1:11–16). Paul realized that if his own efforts were enough to be whole and right with God, “then there was no need for Christ to die” (2:21 nlt). Only by letting go of—dying to—self-reliance, could he experience Jesus living in him (v. 20). Only in his imperfection could he experience God’s perfect power.

This doesn’t mean we shouldn’t resist sin (v. 17); but it does mean we should stop relying on our own strength to grow spiritually (v. 20).

In this lifetime, we will always be works in progress. But as our hearts humbly accept our constant need for the only perfect One, Jesus makes His home there (Ephesians 3:17). Rooted in Him, we are free to grow ever deeper in the love “too great” to ever “understand fully” (v. 19 nlt).

Lord, so often we exchange the joy and freedom of life with You for the burden of relying on ourselves. Help us to humbly rely on You instead.

We are free to grow in Jesus’s love.

By Monica Brands | See Other Authors
INSIGHT
Before his dramatic conversion to Christ, Paul relied on his observance of the law for right standing with God (Philippians 3:4–6). But we see in today’s passage that Paul’s focus has shifted from human effort to acknowledging the work of the Lord. Paul prays for the believers in Ephesus that God would strengthen them (v. 16) so that Christ may dwell in them (v. 17). Then they will be rooted in love (v. 17) and filled with the fullness of God (v. 19). These are things God does for the believer, not something we do.

Have you been tempted to rely on your own strength to please God?

J.R. Hudberg

 

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July 30, 2018

Read: Nehemiah 6:1–9, 15 | Bible in a Year: Psalms 51–53; Romans 2

So the wall was completed on the twenty-fifth of Elul, in fifty-two days. Nehemiah 6:15

We gathered monthly to hold one another accountable to our individual goals. My friend Mary wanted to reupholster the seats of her dining room chairs before the year’s end. At our November meeting she wittily reported her progress from October: “It took ten months and two hours to recover my chairs.” After months of not being able to obtain the materials required, or find the quiet hours away from her demanding job and her toddler’s needs, the project took merely two hours of committed work to finish.

The Lord called Nehemiah to a far greater project: to bring restoration to Jerusalem after its walls had lain in ruin for 150 years (Nehemiah 2:3–5, 12). As he led the people in the labor, they experienced mockery, attacks, distraction, and temptation to sin (4:3, 8; 6:10–12). Yet God equipped them to stand firm—resolute in their efforts—completing a daunting task in just fifty-two days.

Overcoming such challenges requires much more than a personal desire or goal; Nehemiah was driven by an understanding that God appointed him to the task. His sense of purpose invigorated the people to follow his leadership despite incredible opposition. When God charges us with a task—whether to repair a relationship or share what He’s done in our lives—He gives us whatever skills and strength are necessary to continue in our effort to do what He’s asked, no matter what challenges come our way.

Lord, please equip me with Your strength to persevere and finish the tasks You’ve given me. May my labors bring You glory.

God equips us to overcome obstacles and complete the tasks He’s given us to do.

By Kirsten Holmberg | See Other Authors
INSIGHT
What kinds of challenges have you faced? How has God helped you to overcome them?

For further study on the book of Nehemiah, see christianuniversity.org/OT220.

 

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Sinners Like Us
July 31, 2018

Read: Luke 15:1–7 | Bible in a Year: Psalms 54–56; Romans 3
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This man welcomes sinners and eats with them. Luke 15:2

I have a friend—her name is Edith—who told me about the day she decided to follow Jesus.

Edith cared nothing for religion. But one Sunday morning she walked into a church near her apartment looking for something to satisfy her discontented soul. The text that day was Luke 15:1–2, which the pastor read from the King James Version: “Then drew near unto him all the publicans and sinners for to hear him. And the Pharisees and scribes murmured, saying, This man receiveth sinners, and eateth with them.”

That’s what it said, but this is what Edith heard: “This man receives sinners and Edith with them.” She sat straight up in her pew! Eventually she realized her mistake, but the thought that Jesus welcomed sinners—and that included Edith—stayed with her. That afternoon she decided to “draw near” to Jesus and listen to Him. She began to read the Gospels, and soon she decided to put her faith in Him and follow Him.

The religious folks of Jesus’s day were scandalized by the fact that He ate and drank with sinful, awful people. Their rules prohibited them from associating with such folk. Jesus paid no attention to their made-up rules. He welcomed the down-and-out and gathered them to Him, no matter how far gone they were.

It’s still true, you know: Jesus receives sinners and (your name).

Heavenly Father, we can’t thank You enough for the radical love of Your Son, who drew all of us outcasts and moral failures to Him, and made the way for us to come to You in joy and boldness.

God pursues us in our restlessness, receives us in our sinfulness, holds us in our brokenness. Scotty Smith

By David H. Roper | See Other Authors
INSIGHT
The parable of the lost sheep (Luke 15:1–7) is the first in a series of parables about lost things. It’s followed by the parable of the lost coin (vv. 8–10) and the parable of the lost son, better known as the prodigal son (vv. 11–32).

Although each of the parables is about something lost, there’s also something in each that isn’t lost—the sheep safe in the pen, the remaining coins, and the elder son at home. Yet the shepherd, the woman, and the father are not content with what they have; their concern is for that which is lost.

Is someone in your life lost and waiting to be found by the Savior? Whom can you trust to God’s loving and searching ways?

J.R. Hudberg

 

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"I am about to go the way of all the earth," he said. "So be strong, show yourself a man." - 1 Kings 2:2

A FATHER’S WORDS OF COURAGE
August 1, 2018

From the time that he was a little boy, Solomon had heard the stories about his father, how he was a legend even before becoming the king of Israel; how even as a youth, his father killed Goliath and led the Israelites to a great victory over the Philistines. He had heard how his father courageously endured the suffering under King Saul and survived Saul’s continuing threats to kill him. He knew of his father’s military triumphs and his capture of Jerusalem. Solomon knew his father was a larger than life personality.

As King David was dying, he summoned his son, Solomon to his bed. It was time to impart final words of wisdom. Imagine what Solomon was going through at that moment. He knew his father was about to die. You can imagine the sense of anxiety, perhaps the fear, the uncertainty young Solomon had. How could he possibly follow that act? How would he ever meet his father’s expectations?

But King David understood his son. He knew that courage is not the absence of fear but the willingness to do right, even in the face of fear. And the first thing he told Solomon was, “Be strong, and when you are strong, therefore, prove yourself to be a man.” What marvelous words to share on this occasion; what perfect words that any father can share with his son when he is beginning on his life’s journey.

 

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Hard Mysteries
August 5, 2018

Read: Nahum 1:1–7 | Bible in a Year: Psalms 68–69; Romans 8:1–21


The Lord is slow to anger but great in power. Nahum 1:3

As my friend and I went for a walk, we talked about our love for the Bible. She surprised me when she said, “Oh, but I don’t like the Old Testament much. All of that hard stuff and vengeance—give me Jesus!”

We might resonate with her words when we read a book like Nahum, perhaps recoiling at a statement such as, “The Lord takes vengeance and is filled with wrath” (Nahum 1:2). And yet the next verse fills us with hope: “The Lord is slow to anger but great in power” (v. 3).

When we dig more deeply into the subject of God’s anger, we understand that when He exercises it, He’s most often defending His people or His name. Because of His overflowing love, He seeks justice for wrongs committed and the redemption of those who have turned from Him. We see this not only in the Old Testament, as He calls His people back to Himself, but also in the New, when He sends His Son to be the sacrifice for our sins.

We may not understand the mysteries of the character of God, but we can trust that He not only exercises justice but is also the source of all love. We need not fear Him, for He is “good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in him” (v. 7).

Father God, You are good. You are loving and You are merciful. Help me to understand more fully some of the mysteries of Your redeeming love today.

God’s justice and mercy intersect at the cross.

By Amy Boucher Pye | See Other Authors
INSIGHT
Along with Nahum 1:3, we find eight other instances in the Old Testament where we read that the Lord is “slow to anger” (for example, Psalm 86:15; 103:8). But these passages also describe other attributes of God: He is “abounding [or rich] in love” (Exodus 34:6; Numbers 14:18; Psalm 145:8); He is “gracious and compassionate” (Joel 2:13; Jonah 4:2); and He is a “forgiving God” (Nehemiah 9:17). If God were not both just and merciful, we would be without hope. Why? Because “everyone has turned away, all have become corrupt” (Psalm 53:3). “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). None of us deserve His love, compassion, or forgiveness. Apart from God’s love, through the incredible sacrifice of His Son who paid the price for our sins, we would have no opportunity to receive eternal life. But God loved us so very much He gave His only Son (John 3:16).

How can you express your gratitude to God?

Alyson Kieda

 

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“I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.” - John 10:10

WANT TRUE, LASTING HAPPINESS?
August 6, 2018

Happiness. We all want it, but few find it. Yet, so many decisions we make in life are driven by this desire. So, what is true happiness? And does God even care about our happiness?

The Bible shows us that God cares deeply about our desire for happiness and shows us where true happiness can be found.

In the beginning, in Genesis, we see the world fresh and new. No sin, no pain, no turmoil. There we find Adam and Eve. Their entire role was to be fruitful and multiply, reigning over the earth in harmony and peace. Loving life and living the dream. This is the way things should be – true happiness, as God intended. Sounds pretty good, right?

But, there’s a problem. Looking at the world today, something’s clearly missing. Wars, economic uncertainty, broken families, the perfection and beauty of what God created has been lost. It seems happiness is something we all desire, but few find. So, what happened?

Sin entered the world. As a result, we’ve become consumed with searching for happiness in all the wrong places. Is it a career? If only I had that next promotion, that next raise – then I’d be happy. What about a relationship? If only I meet ‘the one’ – then I’d be happy. Is happiness in our ‘stuff’? The newest technology, the faster car, bigger house – then I’d be happy. Looking for happiness in things will never satisfy. In the end, we find ourselves just looking further.

Here is the good news, Jesus offers a solution. He came to offer us a real life, abundant life, far more than anything we could discover on our own. A life of joy and meaning and purpose and yes, happiness.

In what areas of your life are you searching for happiness and turning up empty? Start today by asking God to show you what true, lasting happiness looks like.



Taken from a sermon by George Wright, Senior Pastor, Shandon Baptist Church, Columbia, S.C.

 

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A Good Daddy
August 9, 2018

Read: Psalm 63 | Bible in a Year: Psalms 77–78; Romans 10

On my bed I remember you; I think of you through the watches of the night. Psalm 63:6

When our son, Xavier, was younger, business trips often pulled my husband away from home. Though his father called often, there were rough nights when the calls alone didn’t comfort Xavier. To help soothe our son when he felt he needed his dad, I’d pull out our photo albums as he prepared for bedtime. I’d point out the images that showed them spending time together and ask, “Do you remember this?”

Memory after memory encouraged our son, who often said, “I have a good daddy.”

I understood Xavier’s need to be reminded of his father’s love when he couldn’t see him. Whenever I’m going through tough or lonely times, I too long to know I’m loved, especially by my heavenly Father.

David proclaimed his deep yearning for God as he hid from his enemies in the desert (Psalm 63:1). Remembering his personal encounters with God’s limitless power and satisfying love led him to praise (vv. 2–5). Through his most difficult nights, David could still rejoice in his dependable Father’s loving care (vv. 6–8).

During our dark times, when we feel as if God’s not there for us, we need reminders of who God is and how He’s demonstrated His love. Reflecting on our personal experiences with Him, as well as His actions recorded in Scripture, can affirm the countless ways our good Abba Father loves us.

Lord, thanks for demonstrating Your endless love to Your people, in our lives and through the words You preserved in Scripture.

Remembering God’s works, which reveal His character, reassures us of His love.

By Xochitl Dixon | See Other Authors
INSIGHT
Do you ever wonder whether your faith could endure during hard times? Psalm 63 describes a relationship with God that is deep enough to sustain times so difficult that—literally or metaphorically—we experience life as a “dry and parched land where there is no water” (v. 1).

A faith that is long-lasting is one in which experiencing God’s love is so precious it’s “better than life” (v. 3). Such an intimate relationship is sustained through ongoing communication “through the watches of the night” (v. 6)—a time which in the psalms points to vulnerable communication with God (see, for example, 4:4; 16:7; 119:55).

Through cultivating such a relationship with God, when hard times come we will have a rich history to remember and cherish (63:2, 6). In this way we can trust God enough to cling to Him (vv. 7–8), confident that He’ll deliver us once more (vv. 9–11).

Monica Brands

 

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"Jesus answered, 'I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.'" - John 14:6

EVER STRUGGLED WITH THE EXISTENCE OF GOD?
August 9, 2018

If we’re honest, as Christians, we have all struggled with our faith at one time or another. Here is an area that I have struggled with about the existence of God. Look at the first four words of the Bible, “In the beginning God…” In my human mind, I can’t grasp the concept of no beginning. I know that everything begins and ends, except God – He always has been, is, and always will be. That’s just hard to wrap your head around!

But let me tell you why the first four words of Genesis also enrich my faith. Look at John 1:1. Note the same beginning for the Gospel of John as you saw as the first words in the book of Genesis. “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God.” But we also read verse 14 of John 1. “And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, glory as of the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth.”

Who is the Word? The Word is Jesus, and the only reason I can believe in an invisible God is Jesus. And when I struggle with doubts about the existence of God and deal with those unanswerable questions, like where did God come from? Or how could He always exist? I come back to Jesus. I look at His life, God in the flesh, and most of all, I look at the evidence of Jesus’ resurrection from the dead. If Christ rose from the dead, any Biblical claims about God are possible. If He did not, the Bible says we Christians are just a bunch of fools.

My belief in God rises and falls with Jesus, His life, His death and His resurrection.

 

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The Gift of Time
August 13, 2018

Read: Luke 6:37–38 | Bible in a Year: Psalms 87–88; Romans 13
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A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed. Proverbs 11:25

I headed into the post office in a big hurry. I had a number of things on my to-do list, but as I entered I was frustrated to find a long line backing up all the way to the door. “Hurry up and wait,” I muttered, glancing at my watch.

My hand was still on the door when an elderly stranger approached me. “I can’t get this copier to work,” he said, pointing to the machine behind us. “It took my money and I don’t know what to do.” Immediately I knew what God wanted me to do. I stepped out of line and was able to fix the problem in ten minutes.

The man thanked me and then left. As I turned to get back in line, it was gone. I walked straight to the service counter.

My experience that day reminds me of Jesus’s words: “Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you” (Luke 6:38).

My wait seemed shorter because God interrupted my hurry. By turning my eyes to others’ needs and helping me give of my time, He gave me a gift. It’s a lesson I hope to remember, next time I look at my watch.

Heavenly Father, all of the time I have is in Your hands, a gift from You. Please show me how to use it to bring glory and honor to You.

Sometimes our to-do list needs to wait.

By James Banks | See Other Authors
INSIGHT
Time is a precious commodity that we can waste, spend, or invest. Moses prayed, “Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom” (Psalm 90:12). In a sense, nothing more clearly requires—or displays—a heart of wisdom than the way we use our time. This may be why Jesus—pressed by the crowds, confronted by the needs around Him, and threatened by the religious establishment—is never described in the Gospels as being in a hurry. Instead, He saw time as having a part in the Father’s purposes. At the wedding feast in Galilee, He said to His mother, “My hour has not yet come” (John 2:4). As He drew ever closer to the cross, however, He saw that time coming to culmination. In John 12:27 He affirmed, “Now my soul is troubled, and what shall I say? ‘Father, save me from this hour’? No, it was for this very reason I came to this hour.” Living wisely is rooted in understanding that our loving Father has a purpose behind our seconds, minutes, hours, and days.

Bill Crowder

 

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"As it is written: There is no one righteous, not even one...for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." - Romans 3:10 and 3:23

FATHER, THIS ONE’S WITH ME
August 13, 2018

Do you realize that you can’t earn your way into heaven? It can’t be done. There is just too much sin in our life to ever be offset by any good works we may perform. No matter how hard you try, the ledger can never be balanced. The only way to heaven is through the acceptance of Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior. Salvation is a gift we accept or reject; there are no other choices.

For the Christian, I picture it this way: We’re standing before the throne of Jesus Christ. All of our deeds for this life are brought out. It’s very evident that we deserve hell, because unless we’re perfect (and no one is), we certainly deserve eternal separation from our Creator. Then Christ steps down from that throne of judgment and stands beside us. There’s a wonderful song recorded by the Christian musical group, NewSong, entitled, “This One’s With Me” that pretty well sums it up. Because, He then takes His robe of righteousness and puts it on us and says (my words), “It’s obvious you’re guilty. It’s obvious you deserve hell. But, I have paid the penalty. I have taken the judgment you deserve upon Myself on the cross, and you have accepted this gift. May you live forever in the joy and gratitude of what I have done for you! Father, this one’s with me.” And what a celebration of gratitude and praising of the Lord that will be.

Have you received the unearned gift in faith?

 

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“Wives, be subject to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord. Husbands, love your wives and do not be embittered against them. Children, be obedient to your parents in all things, for this is well-pleasing to the Lord. Fathers, do not exasperate your children, so that they will not lose heart.” - Colossians 3:18-21

WHAT KIND OF FAMILY DO YOU HAVE?
August 15, 2018

Traditional family, blended family, single-parent family, adopted family, same-sex marriage family. What actually is the MODERNfamily, today? And can the modern family be a biblical family? That depends.

No matter your family status – married, single, divorced or simply, ‘it’s complicated’ – we could all use help navigating these relationships. So what does the Bible have to say on the subject of marriage and family? Is it even relevant today?

1. It begins with the role of the husband – servant leadership. Servant leadership and serving one another is the foundation of a biblical family. Think about the leaders you have known. From CEO to soccer coach, often the most effective and successful leaders are servant leaders. These leaders are far more concerned about the success of those he or she is leading than about themselves. But, what does this have to do with a biblical family? In the Bible, husbands are called to be servant leaders, like Christ, who gave His life for the church – sacrificially leading. A husband can best do this by submitting to Christ.
2. What about the woman – the wife? Wives are called to respect and follow the leadership of their husbands. So, biblical marriage is one man and one woman for life.
3. Christian children are called to respect and obey their parents.

Do you see a key theme here? Putting others needs before one’s own – serving one another and submitting to those in authority, which means husbands, wives, and children are all called to submit to Jesus first.

When Paul spoke about family in the First Century, His words were very counter cultural. In a time when women and children were considered property and marriages were business arrangements, this idea was revolutionary. Today, biblical teaching on family remains counter-cultural. In a “me-first” world, to serve others first is definitely going against the norm and the whole idea of biblical submission seems ludicrous.

Yet, what would your relationships look like if you began to set aside your agenda, your pride and really served one another? Whatever your “Modern Family” looks like, ask God to help you have a Christ-centered marriage and family. When they are Christ-centered, they will be biblical, as well.

 

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Heart Hunger
August 16, 2018

Read: John 6:32–40 | Bible in a Year: Psalms 94–96; Romans 15:14–33

I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty. John 6:35

Riding along with my husband on some errands, I scrolled through emails on my phone and was surprised at an incoming advertisement for a local donut shop, a shop we had just passed on the right side of the street. Suddenly my stomach growled with hunger. I marveled at how technology allows vendors to woo us into their establishments.

As I clicked off my email, I mused over God’s constant yearning to draw me closer. He always knows where I am and longs to influence my choices. I wondered, Does my heart growl in desire for Him the way my stomach did over the idea of a donut?

In John 6, following the miraculous feeding of the five thousand, the disciples eagerly ask Jesus to always give them “the bread that . . . gives life to the world” (vv. 33–34). Jesus responds in verse 35, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.” How amazing that a relationship with Jesus can provide constant nourishment in our everyday lives!

The donut shop’s advertisement targeted my body’s craving, but God’s continuous knowledge of my heart’s condition invites me to recognize my ongoing need for Him and to receive the sustenance only He can provide.

Dear God, remind me of my need for Your daily bread of presence.

Jesus alone offers the only bread that truly satisfies.

By Elisa Morgan | See Other Authors
INSIGHT
The heart hunger described in today’s devotional was modeled by Jesus. In Matthew 4:4, Jesus told the Enemy, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’” Then in John 4:34, He told His followers, “My food . . . is to do the will of him who sent me and to finish his work.” Jesus’s passion for the Father and His purposes is the greatest example we can have of true spiritual heart hunger. While we cannot perfectly reflect that desire, we can learn to long for the Father’s presence and provision—just as Jesus did.

For more on spiritual hunger and spiritual satisfaction, check out the Discover the Word conversations “Satisfied” at discovertheword.org/series/satisfied-3.

Bill Crowder

 

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Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.” -

Ephesians 5: 25

LOVE – NO MATTER WHAT
August 17, 2018

We talk about love in many ways: romantic love, erotic love, friendship love. The word love used in the biblical description of family calls husbands to choose to love their wives – no matter what. Now, what does this mean, to choose to love?

This kind of love is a commitment to love, no matter the response. It’s always easy to love someone who loves us back. When someone shows us kindness, offers words of encouragement and affirmation, they are easier to love. But, to love someone in the midst of conflict, in disappointment, even when it hurts – well, that is tough love.

In the biblical description of family, the husband is called to be committed to his wife. To be respectful. To love and to forgive, no matter what. In the first century, this was radically counter cultural. Now, just as the Word of God applied to the first century, the Word of God applies to the 21st century. It is timeless.

Remember, the major responsibility for marriage working lies with the husband. We’re called to love our wives as Christ loved the church. Christ died for the church. This is a tall order because as sinful, imperfect beings, it is an overwhelming challenge to love our wives as Christ does His church. Think about His death on the cross – for you, for me “while we were still sinners, Christ died.” Talk about loving without condition!

Men, ask God to help you choose love, even when it hurts. Start today. Just as Christ faithfully loves us day in and day out without condition, ask Him to help you begin to love your wife with His love.

 

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God’s Care for Us
August 22, 2018

Read: Genesis 3:1–13 | Bible in a Year: Psalms 110–112; 1 Corinthians 5

The Lord God made garments of skin for Adam and his wife and clothed them. Genesis 3:21

My young grandsons enjoy dressing themselves. Sometimes they pull their shirts on backwards and often the younger one puts his shoes on the wrong feet. I usually don’t have the heart to tell them; besides, I find their innocence endearing.

I love seeing the world through their eyes. To them, everything is an adventure, whether walking the length of a fallen tree, spying a turtle sunning itself on a log, or excitedly watching a fire truck roar by. But I know that even my little grandsons are not truly innocent. They can make up a dozen excuses about why they can’t stay in their beds at night and are quick to yank a wanted toy from the other. Yet I love them dearly.

I picture Adam and Eve, God’s first people, as being in some ways like my grandchildren. Everything they saw in the garden must have been a marvel as they walked with God. But one day they willfully disobeyed. They ate of the one tree they were forbidden to eat (Genesis 2:15–17; 3:6). And that disobedience immediately led to lies and blame-shifting (3:8–13).

Still, God loved and cared for them. He sacrificed animals in order to clothe them (v. 21)—and later He provided a way of salvation for all sinners through the sacrifice of His Son (John 3:16). He loves us that much!

Dear Lord, thank You for loving us, despite our sin, and for making a way for us to be with You forever!

For help in your spiritual growth, see this course: christianuniversity.org/spiritual-life-basics.

Jesus loves us so much He sacrificed Himself for our sins.

 

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“I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life, which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me.” Galatians 2: 20

THE LORD’S SUPPER
August 22, 2018

Have you ever been frustrated – with yourself? No matter how hard you try, you just can’t seem to get it right. You try to be patient with that work colleague, but his attitude and personality just rub you the wrong way. What about your spouse? He or she knows exactly what to say to get under your skin. That addiction? Every Sunday you decide to quit, only to give in by Tuesday (sometimes by Sunday afternoon).

Even great followers of Jesus struggle with sin. One of the most devoted Christians in the first century, the Apostle Paul, the very man who was inspired by the Holy Spirit to write much of the New Testament, still struggled with sin.

So, what can we do? One way the Bible talks about is observing the Lord’s Supper with other believers as a renewal of our faith. This is a time of gratitude in thinking back to the crucifixion of Christ. We remember the price that Jesus paid so that we could be forgiven, the judgement that we deserve because of our sins.

Regularly observing the Lord’s Supper with other believers is an opportunity to renew our faith. It’s where a Christian, dirtied by sin and living this life— remembers what Christ has done to pay the penalty for all that sin. Out of gratitude, we renew our vows of commitment to him.

We all have baggage. There’s not a person alive that’s got it all together. We all struggle with our sins. In the Lord’s Supper, we are brought back to the incredible love of Jesus. We’re brought back to the fact that Christ has paid the ultimate price, to die for us on the cross. When we remember that, the Lord’s Supper is a renewal of faith—not to try harder, but a renewed commitment to follow Jesus in gratitude for His grace and love for us.

Are you ready for that? I have good news. You don’t have to wait on observing the Lord’s Supper. You can do it today. Stop dragging your baggage around – just leave it at the foot of the cross. Then the observance of the Lord’s Supper will mean even more.

 

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“No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money.”
 - Matthew 6:24

GOD’S KINGDOM = TRUE HAPPINESS
August 23, 2018

Every kingdom has a king. In the kingdom of God, the king is Jesus. Today, we live in a culture that is lush with little kingdoms and little kings being chased. Money, power, security – how do we navigate all our stuff to find true happiness and contentment?

True joy and happiness are found only through life in Christ. We will not receive the kingdom of God, love the kingdom of God, and enjoy all the blessings of the kingdom of God as long as we are trying to build our own kingdom.

This is the key to happiness in the midst of all the stuff we have – perspective. Are you ready for this? If you have a car, indoor plumbing, plenty of clean drinking water and a change of clean clothes you are more wealthy than the majority of people on planet earth. 
Please hear me, this does not mean that wealth is bad.

Wealth is not a bad thing, but it makes a terrible god! Wealth is the god that is never satisfied. It is the god that is always greedy, envious, discontent, and wanting more. The issue is not wealth or riches. The issue is how we view it and how we use it. So, what can we do?

• Be Humble – It is not about titles or achievements. To follow Jesus is to humbly admit our need for a Savior, not just at the moment of salvation, but every day. We are nothing apart from the grace of God.
• Be Grateful – Celebrate and enjoy with thanksgiving all that God has provided.
• Be Generous – Break greed and selfishness by declaring trust in the Giver over the gifts.
• Be Eternally Focused – Remember the ultimate goal, eternity with God.

What kingdom are you investing in? If anything in your life is competing against the kingdom of God, one thing is for sure, you will never find true happiness.

 

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Serve Continually
August 27, 2018

Read: Daniel 6:10–22 | Bible in a Year: Psalms 120–122; 1 Corinthians 9
https://odb.org/wp-content/themes/odbm-base/assets/download.php?file=https://dzxuyknqkmi1e.cloudfront.net/odb/2018/08/odb-08-27-18.mp3
Has your God, whom you serve continually, been able to rescue you? Daniel 6:20

When educational psychologist Benjamin Bloom, researching how to develop talent in young people, examined the childhoods of 120 elite performers—athletes, artists, scholars—he found that all of them had one thing in common: they had practiced intensively for long periods of time.

Bloom’s research suggests that growing in any area of our lives requires discipline. In our walk with God, too, cultivating the spiritual discipline of regularly spending time with Him is one way we can grow in our trust in Him.

Daniel is a good example of someone who prioritized a disciplined walk with God. As a young person, Daniel started making careful and wise decisions (1:8). He also was committed to praying regularly, “giving thanks to God” (6:10). His frequent seeking of God resulted in a life in which his faith was easily recognized by those around him. In fact, King Darius described Daniel as a “servant of the living God” (v. 20) and twice described him as a person who served God “continually” (vv. 16, 20).

Like Daniel, we desperately need God. How good to know that God works in us so that we long to spend time with Him! (Philippians 2:13). So let us come every day before God, trusting that our time with Him will result in a love that will overflow more and more and in a growing knowledge and understanding of our Savior (1:9–11).

Father, I thank You for the privilege of serving You. Help me to spend regular time with You in order to grow in my knowledge of You.

Time with God transforms us.

 

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You Love Me?
August 29, 2018

Read: Malachi 1:1–5 | Bible in a Year: Psalms 126–128; 1 Corinthians 10:19–33


How have you loved us? Malachi 1:2

As a teenager, I went through the typical season of rebellion against my mother’s authority. My father died before I entered adolescence, so my mom had to navigate these turbulent parenting waters without his help.

I recall thinking that Mom didn’t want me to ever have any fun—and maybe didn’t even love me—because she frequently said no. I see now that she said no to activities that weren’t good for me precisely because she loves me.

The Israelites questioned how much God loved them because of their time in captivity in Babylon. But that captivity was God’s correction for their continued rebellion against Him. So now, God sent the prophet Malachi to them. His opening words from the Lord were, “I have loved you” (Malachi 1:2). Israel replied skeptically, inquiring as to how God has loved them, as if to say, “Really?” But God, through Malachi, reminded them of the way He had demonstrated that love: He had chosen them over the Edomites.

We all go through difficult seasons in life. We may be tempted to question God’s love for us during those times. Let’s recall the many ways He’s shown us His unfailing love. When we stop to consider His goodness, we find that He is indeed a loving Father.

Lord, You have shown tender care for me over the course of my life. You’ve been present with me in difficult seasons. Help me to always remember Your love.

Our heavenly Father corrects us and comforts us.

By Kirsten Holmberg | See Other Authors
INSIGHT
Malachi, though a short book, is a very important one. Malachi ministered as the last prophet sent to the remnant that had returned to Jerusalem from the Babylonian captivity. The prophet’s central theme is the coming of the Messiah. The prophet preaches about God’s righteous judgment as well as His love. It’s only in the overwhelming sacrifice of the Messiah, His victory over death, and coming back to earth to make all things right, that the love of God can be fully understood.

The unmerited offer of redeeming grace made known through Jesus Christ is the central theme of the Bible. Certainly our Lord’s life and ministry are a marvelous picture of God’s declaration “I have loved you” (1:2).

Why not take a few minutes to prayerfully reflect on Christ coming to redeem you and the future hope of His coming again.

Dennis Fisher

 

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"Jesus answered, 'If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.' When the young man heard this, he went away sad, because he had great wealth. Then Jesus said to his disciples, 'Truly I tell you, it is hard for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of heaven.”’ Matthew 19: 21-23

ARE YOU WILLING TO DROP EVERYTHING TO FOLLOW JESUS?
August 29, 2018

Where do you find your security – wealth, status, career? If you were asked to give it all away – would you? Could you?

In Matthew, we read of a rich young man approaching Jesus. He wants to follow Him. But Jesus, knowing the true heart behind people’s motives and priorities says to the man – “If you want to follow me, go and sell all your wealth and give it to the poor. Then you can come follow me.”

Turning to leave, the rich man is disappointed. He knows he can’t do that. Why? Because his security is in his money. The idol of his life is money. There is no way he could give it up.

Witnessing this exchange, the disciples become unsettled. Why would Jesus say that? What will others think? They might lose followers.

Recognizing their concern, Jesus explains how difficult it is for a wealthy person to enter heaven. His answer was more than a little alarming. It’s probably alarming many affluent individuals calling themselves Christian, today.

You might think you’re going to go to heaven when you die, but all this time you’ve been putting your trust in money rather than God. God knows that your heart isn’t really His. That’s a pretty strong statement.

Choosing to follow Jesus isn’t easy. Now, don’t get Him wrong. Jesus isn’t asking everyone to give up all their earthly possessions in order to follow Him. But, He is saying that we need to be willing to give up what is most important to us to follow Him. Where are we putting our trust, our security, our hope? Is it in the things of this world, things that will pass away? Or, are we putting our trust, our security, our hope in Christ? It’s a one-time decision that needs to be renewed daily. What decision are you making? Will you walk away from Jesus disappointed – or will you walk with Jesus?