Daily Devotion

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A Mother’s Love
November 23, 2018

Read: Psalm 91:1–6 | Bible in a Year: Ezekiel 20–21; James 5


He will call on me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble, I will deliver him and honor him. Psalm 91:15

When Sue’s parents divorced when she was young, the legal tussle over her custody and other matters resulted in her being sent to a children’s home for a while. Bullied by bigger kids, she felt lonely and abandoned. Her mother visited only once a month, and she hardly saw her father. It was only years later, however, that her mother told her that while the home’s rules prevented her from visiting more often, she had stood at the fence every single day, hoping to catch a glimpse of her daughter. “Sometimes,” she said, “I would just watch you playing in the garden, just to check if you were okay.”

When Sue shared this story, it gave me a glimpse of God’s love. Sometimes we may feel abandoned and alone in our struggles. How comforting it is to know that God is in fact watching over us all the time! (Psalm 33:18). Even though we can’t see Him, He is there. Like a loving parent, His eyes and His heart are constantly on us wherever we go. Yet, unlike Sue’s mom, He can act on our behalf at any time.

Psalm 91 describes God delivering, protecting, and lifting up His children. He is more than a refuge and a shelter. As we navigate the dark valleys of life, we can take comfort in the knowledge that the all-powerful Lord is watching over us and is active in our lives. “I will answer [you],” He declares. “I will be with [you] in trouble, I will deliver [you]” (v. 15).

Lord, thank You for the assurance that we’re always under Your watchful care.

Our heavenly Father is ever near.

By Leslie Koh | See Other Authors
INSIGHT
Psalm 91 celebrates the safety and security of those who trust in God, who have made the Lord (the Most High) their refuge, fortress, and dwelling place (vv. 2, 9). The psalmist affirms that our God is powerful and faithful and therefore trustworthy (vv. 1–8). He also testifies of God's protection and deliverance in a dangerous and destructive world (vv. 9–16). In the New Testament, Satan misquoted verses 11–12 to tempt Jesus to test God's protection by jumping from the top of the temple (Matthew 4:6). In response, Jesus says that God's promise is for those who love and obey Him (Psalm 91:14–15) and not for those who presume upon God's grace (Matthew 4:7).

K. T. Sim

 

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1. You shall have no other gods before me.
2. You shall not make for yourself any carved image...for I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God.
3. You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain.
4. Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord your God.
5. Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long upon the land which the Lord your God is giving you.
6. You shall not murder.
7. You shall not commit adultery.
8. You shall not steal.
9. You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor.
10. You shall not covet your neighbor's house; you shall not covet your neighbor's wife, nor his manservant, nor his maidservant, nor his ox, nor his donkey, nor anything that is your neighbors.

- Exodus 20:1-17

MAKING MORALITY RULES
November 25, 2018

Legislatures make laws. It’s what they do. And all those laws are based on somebody’s view of morality. They’re passed in order to protect people from being taken advantage of, from abuse or mistreatment, or even from unlawful death. And yet, how many times have Christians heard the argument that you cannot legislate morality? It’s true that we cannot force anyone to believe in moral principles, but we can certainly call for laws to protect the innocent, the weak, and the most basic of human rights. For instance, shouldn’t there be laws against rape? Or stealing? Or how about laws against prostitution, narcotics, and child pornography? Of course there should be legislation against those things and there are; but don’t these laws legislate morality?

All societies base their laws on somebody’s view of morality. So, anyone who argues that Christians shouldn’t let our moral beliefs influence society as a whole, is not only speaking an untruth about Christian influence, but is also speaking an untruth about society in general.

True morality comes from God. We are ALL made in His image, and unlike every other creation, mankind has a sense of morality – a sense of right and wrong. In that light, can you find a higher moral guide than that of Jesus and His Word?

 

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“Beware of the false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they’re ravenous wolves. You recognize them by their fruits.” - Matthew 7:15-16a

THE HALF-TRUTH TRAP
November 26, 2018

What is a prophet? The main role of a real prophet is to tell the truth – the truth about God, that is. A “false” prophet, on the other hand, is somebody who tells you what you want to hear or what they want you to hear. There may be a kernel of truth in what they say, but it won’t be the whole truth. It won’t align with God’s Word.

Jesus gave a few examples of such modern day “false prophets” to look out for: Men (and women) who pose as “friends” to vulnerable young people living in broken and needy home environments. These false prophets lure these individuals into a false sense of security by telling them that they will love and care for them – that they will make their lives better. When you’re desperate for love and hope, you’ll believe just about anything. And before you know it, they find themselves as nothing more than objects in the dark world of sexual molestation, child pornography, or prostitution.

On the other end of the spectrum, a false prophet is also someone who teaches half-truths. For example, he or she might say that God will bless you materially – only when you give to Him. There’s no doubt that Scripture does says that God blesses those who are generous with their resources, but God’s Word is also clear that we don’t give simply to get in return. Rather, we give while trusting God to meet our needs in the meantime. False prophets preach “this health and wealth” gospel – NOT the gospel of Jesus.

Jesus says that we will be known by the “fruit” our lives produce. For those walking with Jesus, these “fruit of the Spirit” refer to lives exuding love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. As for the false prophets, they too will be recognized by the “fruit” from their lives – fruit that is rotten and will eventually be cut down and thrown into the fire.

So, beware; be vigilant. Don’t fall into their trap. Thankfully, the closer we walk with God, the more we’ll know the TRUTH and the less likely we are to be tripped up by anything less.

 

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A Solid Foundation
November 28, 2018

Read: Matthew 7:24–27 | Bible in a Year: Ezekiel 33–34; 1 Peter 5

Everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. Matthew 7:24

Last summer my husband and I toured Fallingwater, a house in rural Pennsylvania designed by architect Frank Lloyd Wright in 1935. I’ve never seen anything quite like it. Wright wanted to create a home that rose organically out of the landscape, as if it could have grown there—and he accomplished his goal. He built the house around an existing waterfall, and its style mirrors the neighboring rock ledges. Our tour guide explained what made the construction safe: “The whole vertical core of the house,” she said, “rests on boulders.”

Hearing her words, I couldn’t help but think of Jesus’s words to His disciples. During the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus told them that what He was teaching would be the sure foundation for their lives. If they heard His words and put them into practice, they would be able to withstand any storms. Those who heard but didn’t obey, in contrast, would be like a house built on sand (Matthew 7:24–27). Later, Paul echoed this thought, writing that Christ is the foundation, and we must build upon it with work that will endure (1 Corinthians 3:11).

When we listen to the words of Jesus and obey them, we’re building our lives on a steady, rock-solid foundation. Maybe our lives can look a little like Fallingwater, beautiful and built to last on the Rock.

God, help us to hear and obey the words of Jesus!

What are you building your life around?

By Amy Peterson | See Other Authors
INSIGHT
In Matthew 7:24–27, Jesus says following His teachings is wise and prudent, for they are the foundation on which a full and healthy life is built. He makes this statement after giving the Sermon on the Mount, which contains what has been considered by some the most difficult and stringent guidelines for life. But we aren’t left to live this life on our own; we are dependent on the Spirit. These requirements extend beyond actions and into the thoughts and attitudes. A person who honors God with his or her whole life will remain steady in the storms of life (vv. 24–25).

J.R. Hudberg

 

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"Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen." - Hebrews 11:1

YOU ASKED FOR A SIGN…
November 28, 2018

Have you seen this billboard sign? “Well, you have been asking me for a sign! – God.” I had to laugh the first time I saw it, because haven’t most of us, at one time or another, asked God for a sign? Just sky-write it or something! If I only had a sign, then I’d know what to do and get back on the right path!

Well, I hate to disappoint you, but that’s not how it usually works. Look at all those plagues in Egypt. All of them were “signs.” And yet, how did Pharaoh and the Egyptians respond? Their hearts simply got harder. What about all of Jesus’ miracles? People witnessed Jesus raise a man from the dead and all they could think about was how to get rid of Him. Again, so many “signs.” Yet, the majority of theses witnesses didn’t change. Their hearts just got harder and harder.

The same has been true throughout history; people’s hearts often don’t change because of a powerful sign or miracle. Miracles simply reveal if a person is hard-hearted toward God or if they have any inkling of faith.

Are you waiting for some sign or miracle to give you the “proof” you’re looking for to believe in God? Remember, “faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” The evidence for God’s existence is everywhere. What you have to decide is if you’ll be open-minded enough to see it, to see Him, and then choose to believe.

 

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Thanks for Being You!
December 3, 2018

Read: Psalm 100 | Bible in a Year: Ezekiel 45–46; 1 John 2


Enter his gates with thanksgiving. Psalm 100:4

When I served as my mom’s live-in caregiver at a cancer center, I got to know Lori, another caregiver who lived down the hallway from us with her husband, Frank. I would chat, laugh, vent, cry, and pray with Lori in the shared living areas. We enjoyed supporting each other as we cared for our loved ones.

One day, I missed the free shuttle that took residents to buy groceries. Lori offered to drive me to the store later that evening. With grateful tears, I accepted her offer. “Thanks for being you,” I said. I truly appreciated her for who she was as a person, not just for what she did for me as a friend.

Psalm 100 demonstrates an appreciation of God for who He is, not simply for all He does. The psalmist invites “all the earth” (v. 1) to “worship the Lord with gladness” (v. 2), being confident in knowing “the Lord is God” (v. 3). Our Maker invites us into His presence to “give thanks to him and praise his name” (v. 4). Yes, the Lord remains worthy of our ongoing thankfulness because He “is good,” His “love endures forever,” and His “faithfulness continues through all generations” (v. 5).

God will always be the Creator and Sustainer of the universe and our intimately loving Father. He deserves our genuine joy-filled gratitude.

Lord, thanks for being You!

Who can you share God’s love with today?

By Xochitl Dixon | See Other Authors
INSIGHT
Psalm 100 echoes the words of Psalm 95. Both begin with an appeal to shout for joy and together call for a resounding celebration in song to the God of gods, Yahweh. This personal name of Israel’s God is translated in English versions as Lord.

But beyond their similarities, the two songs tell a different story. While Psalm 95 attempts to rouse a nation that has lost its joy (vv. 7–11), Psalm 100 invites the whole earth to erupt in shouts of praise and songs of mirth. At least fourteen times the songwriter of Psalm 100 points to this God of gods by name or pronoun. With every line the psalmist invites people of all nations to enter into the presence of One who is infinitely more to be praised than was seen in the lagging joy of His dearly loved and chosen people.

Mart DeHaan

 

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Questions at Christmas
December 4, 2018

Read: Matthew 16:13–21 | Bible in a Year: Ezekiel 47–48; 1 John 3


“But what about you?” [Jesus] asked. “Who do you say I am?” Matthew 16:15

Well before the calendar flips to December, Christmas cheer begins to bubble up in our northern town. A medical office drapes its trees and shrubs in close-fitting strings of lights, each a different color, illuminating a breathtaking nighttime landscape. Another business decorates its building to look like an enormous, extravagantly wrapped Christmas present. It’s difficult to turn anywhere without seeing evidence of Christmas spirit—or at least seasonal marketing.

Some people love these lavish displays. Others take a more cynical view. But the crucial question isn’t how others observe Christmas. Rather, we each need to consider what the celebration means to us.

A little more than thirty years after His birth, Jesus asked His disciples, “Who do people say the Son of Man is?” (Matthew 16:13). They gave responses others had given: John the Baptist, Elijah, maybe another prophet. Then Jesus made it personal: “Who do you say I am?” (v. 15). Peter replied, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God” (v. 16).

Many will celebrate Christmas without a thought about who the Baby really is. As we interact with them, we can help them consider these crucial questions: Is Christmas just a heartwarming story about a baby born in a stable? Or did our Creator visit His creation and become one of us?

Father in heaven, may our Christmas celebrations this year, whether lavish or small, honor the Messiah who came to redeem His creation.

For more on the life of Christ, see christianuniversity.org/NT111.

Who do you say Jesus is?

By Tim Gustafson | See Other Authors
INSIGHT
Who was Matthew, the writer of the gospel by the same name? Matthew (also known as Levi) was one of Jesus’s twelve disciples. Prior to Jesus’s call, Matthew served as a despised tax collector (9:9). Tax collectors were particularly loathed because they exacted taxes from their own people, the Jews, to pay the Romans (the oppressive rulers of Israel). And they often collected far more than required. Matthew wrote his gospel primarily to the Jews to prove that Jesus is the Messiah (Savior), the eternal King. We see Matthew’s emphasis clearly in today’s passage. When Jesus asked His disciples about His identity, Peter declared, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God” (16:15–16). Alyson Kieda

 

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“Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.” Jeremiah 33:3

I DO BELIEVE – HELP MY UNBELIEF
December 4, 2018

Luke chapter 9 details a story of Jesus healing a little boy who was being tormented by a demon. The disciples had tried and failed to heal him, so you can probably imagine the desperation of the boy’s father. What follows is a powerful exchange between the father and Jesus: “All things are possible to him who believes,” Jesus says to this father. “I DO believe. Help my unbelief,” the father responds (Mark 9: 23-24, emphasis added).

I love this passage. I love the raw, vulnerability seen in the father’s expression of faith. So what’s happening here? Jesus is telling us that to be a follower of God is to recognize that ALL THINGS are possible for those who believe, for those who have faith. Does that mean that God answers every single prayer in the exact way that we imagined? No. Because He’s a loving Father, He’s not always going to give us exactly what we want. Does that mean that a person will be healed IF we have enough faith? No, because that’s not how God works in His ultimate sovereign plan. And yet, Jesus says that ALL THINGS are possible for those who believe.

The father in this story showed up because he believed in the power of Jesus, and yet he wasn’t completely sure that anything would happen. The problem was so big. It was so overwhelming and his honesty in that moment with Jesus was so real. As Jesus said, God is always powerful and yet it’s prayer, it’s faith that activates God’s mighty power.

So does God still heal and perform miracles? Does He answer prayers? Absolutely! And while our faith might waver between confidence and uncertainty, we can confidently go before God and pour out our hopes, fears, and disappointments. And when we face seasons of doubt, continue to show up and ask God to help our unbelief.

 

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Lonely Christmas
December 6, 2018

Read: Psalm 25:14–22 | Bible in a Year: Daniel 3–4; 1 John 5

My eyes are ever on the Lord. Psalm 25:15

The loneliest Christmas I ever spent was in my grandfather’s cottage near Sakogu, northern Ghana. I was just fifteen, and my parents and siblings were a thousand kilometers away. In previous years, when I’d been with them and my village friends, Christmas was always big and memorable. But this Christmas was quiet and lonely. As I lay on my floor mat early Christmas morning, I remembered a local song: The year has ended; Christmas has come; the Son of God is born; peace and joy to everybody. Mournfully, I sang it over and over.

My grandmother came and asked, “What song is that?” My grandparents didn’t know about Christmas—or about Christ. So I shared what I knew about Christmas with them. Those moments brightened my loneliness.

Alone in the fields with only sheep and occasional predators, the shepherd boy David experienced loneliness. It would not be the only time. Later in his life he wrote, “I am lonely and afflicted” (Psalm 25:16). But David didn’t allow loneliness to cause him to be despondent. Instead, he sang: “My hope, Lord, is in you” (v. 21).

From time to time we all face loneliness. Wherever Christmas may find you this year, in loneliness or in companionship, you can enjoy the season with Christ.

Lord, thank You that with You I’m not alone even in my times of loneliness. This Christmas, help me to enjoy my fellowship with You and to reach out to others.

With Jesus at Christmas, we’re never alone.

By Lawrence Darmani | See Other Authors
INSIGHT
Psalm 25 is a prayer for and celebration of God’s guidance—extended to anyone willing to humbly learn from Him (vv. 5, 8–9, 12). Even the structure of this psalm as an acrostic poem (each line sequentially following the Hebrew alphabet) reinforces this emphasis on learning from God, since the structure was often chosen for its helpfulness in memorization.

The psalm’s theme of worship as a lifestyle of learning from God is also captured by the words “put my trust” in verse 1—more literally, “lift up my soul” (nrsv; “soul” referring to all of oneself, both body and spirit). The image, alluding to the worship posture of uplifted hands, offers a beautiful picture of walking with God: we honestly lift up before Him all of ourselves and our struggles, while continually waiting with open, trusting hands to receive all we need from our loving, gracious God (vv. 15–18, 20–21).

 

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The “Hope for a Baby” Tree
December 13, 2018

Read: Lamentations 3:1–3, 13–24 | Bible in a Year: Hosea 12–14; Revelation 4


His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. Lamentations 3:22–23

After wrapping the tree with clear twinkle lights, I tied pink and blue bows on its branches and christened it our “Hope for a Baby” Christmas tree. My husband and I had been waiting for a baby through adoption for more than four years. Surely by Christmas!

Every morning I stopped at the tree and prayed, reminding myself of God’s faithfulness. On December 21 we received the news: no baby by Christmas. Devastated, I paused by the tree that had become a symbol of God’s provision. Was God still faithful? Was I doing something wrong?

At times, God’s apparent withholding results from His loving discipline. And other times God lovingly delays to renew our trust. In Lamentations, the prophet Jeremiah describes God’s correction of Israel. The pain is palpable: “He pierced my heart with arrows from his quiver” (3:13). Through it all, Jeremiah also expresses ultimate trust in God’s faithfulness: “His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness” (vv. 22–23).

I left the tree standing well beyond Christmas and continued my morning prayer. At last, on Easter weekend, we received our baby girl. God is always faithful, though not necessarily on our timeline nor always according to our desires.

My children are now in their thirties, but each year I set up a miniature version of the tree, reminding myself and others to hope in God’s faithfulness.

Dear God, help me trust You today even when I can’t see what You are doing. You are faithful.

The best reason for hope is God’s faithfulness.

By Elisa Morgan | See Other Authors
INSIGHT
The book of Lamentations expresses the grief of Jerusalem following the 587 bcinvasion of Babylon. With her walls broken, her children exiled, and survivors living in the rubble of better times, it bares the soul of a once-proud people.

In its original Hebrew language, the book is composed of five chapters of carefully constructed poems. Its finely polished composition provides literary relief to the overwhelming confusion of a nation that has lost control of its own emotions and destiny. The only hope left is in the belief that above the clouds of this dark night of a nation’s soul, there is a God who has in the past shown that His mercies and love will never end.

 

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"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."

Matthew 1:21

CHRISTMAS – THE REAL STORY
December 13, 2018

Glenn Beck once shared his understanding of Christmas. “To me, Christmas is not about the birth of a baby. It is about who that baby grew up to become; how He decided to live His life and the choices and the sacrifices He made in the end. To me, Christmas points to the redemption, the redeeming power of that man.”

And that’s it – the TRUE meaning of Christmas is all about the redemption of Christ! But then Glenn continued, by suggesting that his listeners use the season to start over, to wipe their slates clean, and become “who you really are.” Now I’m not here to criticize Glenn Beck, but the story of Christmas is not about starting over.

Yes, the Christmas story is about God’s love and grace and the humility and servant-hood of the little baby that was born. But that baby grew into a man who would redeem for our Heavenly Father what is rightfully His in the first place – our lives. Jesus came to pay the greatest price for our redemption – His life, dying for our sins on the cross. The story of Christmas doesn’t stop at the manger. It continues throughout the perfect, sinless life, the cross and ultimately, the resurrection of the only Son of God. The story of Christmas is that our Heavenly Father desires for every single one of us to be redeemed. But there’s nothing that we can do about it. There’s no decision of will to “start over” or clean up our act in a way that makes us good enough. Our part is simply to accept this gift of redemption in faith.

And that’s the real story of Christmas!

 

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"The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it." - John 1:5

DARKNESS CANNOT OVERPOWER LIGHT
December 14, 2018

I love the candle lighting service in our church’s Christmas Eve celebration. With lights turned off, we light a single candle. One by one, as everyone lights their own candles, that one small light spreads throughout the Sanctuary until the once dark room is full of light. It’s a wonderful demonstration of the power of light to overpower darkness. The same is true when it comes to spiritual darkness against the spiritual light of Jesus Christ. Jesus, the light of the world, will always pierce even the darkest of days.

Many times in history, spiritual darkness has appeared overpowering and unbeatable. Take the 20th century Marxist movement, for example. Gaining huge momentum in the Soviet revolution, it spread to China in their Communist revolution, followed by Cuba, Eastern Europe, and soon after Southeast Asia. One after another; the darkness of atheism seemed unstoppable in overpowering the light of the church. But by the end of the 20th century, the Soviet Union was no more and Eastern Europe became the birthplace of many fledgling democracies. The lesson in all this is this: Even though darkness might appear to win, it’s never permanent, because the light of Jesus always overpowers even the darkest of times.

Of course, the greatest example of ultimate victory when all seemed bleak, is the cross. For a moment, it appeared that the devil had won. Until three days later, the Light returned – never to be snuffed out again. For in the end, the Light of Jesus ALWAYS overpowers the darkness.

 

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From Shame to Honor
December 17, 2018

Read: Luke 1:18–25 | Bible in a Year: Amos 7–9; Revelation 8

https://odb.org/wp-content/themes/odbm-base/assets/download.php?file=https://dzxuyknqkmi1e.cloudfront.net/odb/2018/12/odb-12-17-18.mp3
[The Lord] has shown his favor and taken away my disgrace among the people. Luke 1:25

It’s that time of the year again, when families gather to celebrate the festive season together. Some of us, however, dread meeting certain “concerned” relatives whose questions can make those who are still single or childless feel that there’s something wrong with them.

Imagine the plight of Elizabeth, who was childless despite being married for many years. In her culture, that was seen as a sign of God’s disfavor (see 1 Samuel 1:5–6) and could actually be considered shameful. So while Elizabeth had been living righteously (Luke 1:6), her neighbors and relatives may have suspected otherwise.

Nonetheless, Elizabeth and her husband continued to serve the Lord faithfully. Then, when both were well advanced in years, a miracle occurred. God heard her prayer (v. 13). He loves to show us His favor (v. 25). And though He may seem to delay, His timing is always right and His wisdom always perfect. For Elizabeth and her husband, God had a special gift: a child who would become the Messiah’s forerunner (Isaiah 40:3–5).

Do you feel inadequate because you seem to lack something—a university degree, a spouse, a child, a job, a house? Keep living for Him faithfully and waiting patiently for Him and His plan, just as Elizabeth did. No matter our circumstances, God is working in and through us. He knows your heart. He hears your prayers.

God, You are forever faithful and good. Help us to keep trusting in You, even when we experience heartache.

Keep living for Him faithfully and waiting patiently for His plan.

By Poh Fang Chia | See Other Authors
INSIGHT
Zechariah and Elizabeth were descendants of Aaron (Luke 1:5). God had designated that only Aaron’s descendants could serve as priests (1 Chronicles 23:13). Israel’s priesthood was divided into twenty-four divisions, with each division rotating to serve in the temple for just two weeks every year (24:1–19). With so many priests, lots were cast to determine which specific priest would have the once-in-a-lifetime privilege to burn incense in the Holy Place. Coupled with the angel announcing the birth of a son despite their old age, this would have been the highest point of Zechariah’s life (Luke 1:8–13, 18). The same archangel Gabriel, who told Daniel the meaning of the vision that concerns “the appointed time of the end” (Daniel 8:19), now appears to Zechariah, whose name means “the Lord has remembered.” God remembered His promise to send the Messiah and now sets in motion the events of the end times.

K. T. Sim

 

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A Christmas Letter
December 19, 2018

Read: John 1:1–14 | Bible in a Year: Jonah 1–4; Revelation 10


The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father. John 1:14

Every Christmas, a friend of mine writes a long letter to his wife, reviewing the events of the year and dreaming about the future. He always tells her how much he loves her, and why. He also writes a letter to each of his daughters. His words of love make an unforgettable Christmas present.

We could say that the original Christmas love letter was Jesus, the Word made flesh. John highlights this truth in his gospel: “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God” (John 1:1). In ancient philosophy, the Greek for Word, logos, suggested a divine mind or order that unites reality, but John expands the definition to reveal the Word as a person: Jesus, the Son of God who was “with God in the beginning” (v. 2). This Word, the Father’s “one and only Son,” “became flesh and made his dwelling among us” (v. 14). Through Jesus the Word, God reveals Himself perfectly.

Theologians have grappled with this beautiful mystery for centuries. However much we may not understand, we can be certain that Jesus as the Word gives light to our dark world (v. 9). If we believe in Him, we can experience the gift of being God’s beloved children (v. 12).

Jesus, God’s love letter to us, has come and made His home among us. Now that’s an amazing Christmas gift!

Lord Jesus Christ, You are the Word of God, and You bring light into my life. May I shine forth Your goodness and grace and bring You honor.

How can you share the amazing gift of Jesus with others today?

By Amy Boucher Pye | See Other Authors
INSIGHT
In this account of Jesus’s life, John the disciple notes the supreme irony: the Creator visits His creation, and His creation does not recognize Him (John 1:10). More than that, God’s chosen people reject their Messiah: “He came to that which was his own [Israel], but his own did not receive him” (v. 11). It would seem, then, that Jesus’s visit to our planet was not a success. But many did believe, and John emphasizes, “To all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God” (vv. 12–13).

Tim Gustafson

 

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"When this man heard that Jesus had arrived in Galilee from Judea, he went to him and begged him to come and heal his son, who was close to death. 'Go,' Jesus replied, 'your son will live.' The man took Jesus at his word and departed. While he was still on the way, his servants met him with the news that his boy was living." John 4: 47 & 50-51

WHAT DOES HEALING LOOK LIKE?
December 28, 2018

“Go; your son lives,” Jesus told the man. It was a 4-6 hour journey home and his son was critically ill. So ill, in fact, that this father risked possibly his son’s final hours to beg Jesus for a miracle. Can you imagine the journey home? The thoughts swirling around this man’s head – did Jesus really just heal my son? He didn’t even see him! Can this really happen? Or did I just miss my son’s final hours to go on this ridiculous journey? So many questions. So few answers.

Can’t many of us relate? We pray for a miracle, but we’re restless and full of doubt. In the case of this desperate Father, Jesus did heal his son – bringing his entire household to faith. But, how does this miracle relate to our lives, today? What can we learn about Jesus from this miracle of healing?

1. Nothing is impossible with God.
2. Jesus can heal because of the faith of others.
3. Jesus doesn’t have to be physically present to heal.
4. Only God sees the full picture and knows why some are healed and others aren’t.
5. Our role is to trust the results of our prayers, whether they make sense or not.

Maybe your need isn’t a physical healing like this sick little boy. Maybe you’re carrying around emotional or spiritual wounds. If we’re honest, we could all use some healing in our lives – right? Maybe twenty years ago you had an abortion. You didn’t feel you were ready to be a mother so you made a choice. But this choice still haunts you. Overwhelmed with guilt and pain, you’re in desperate need of God’s healing and forgiving power. Perhaps it’s abuse you experienced growing up. You need God’s supernatural power to forgive and move on – because right now you just can’t. Whatever it may be, the same Jesus who healed this sick little boy, in spite of the father’s questions, uncertainties and doubts, still heals today. If you confess your sins to God – He will forgive you. If you confess your inability to forgive others, He will help you.

Are you in need of physical, spiritual, or emotional healing in your life? Maybe you’ve been praying for a miracle but still struggle with doubt, questions, and a lack of faith. Take your needs before Jesus and leave the rest to Him. Let Jesus reveal what healing can look like in your life.

 

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It’s Good to Ask
January 2, 2019

Read: Psalm 143:4–11 | Bible in a Year: Genesis 4–6; Matthew 2


Show me the way I should go. Psalm 143:8

My father has always had a directional sense I’ve envied. He’s just instinctively known where north, south, east, and west are. It’s like he was born with that sense. And he’s always been right. Until the night he wasn’t.

That was the night my father got lost. He and my mother attended an event in an unfamiliar town and left after dark. He was convinced he knew the way back to the highway, but he didn’t. He got turned around, then confused, and ultimately frustrated. My mother reassured him, “I know it’s hard, but ask your phone for directions. It’s okay.”

For the first time in his life that I’m aware of, my seventy-six-year-old father asked for directions. From his phone.

The psalmist was a man with a wealth of life experience. But the psalms reveal moments when it appears David felt lost spiritually and emotionally. Psalm 143 contains one of those times. The great king’s heart was dismayed (v. 4). He was in trouble (v. 11). So he paused and prayed, “Show me the way I should go” (v. 8). And far from counting on a phone, the psalmist cried out to the Lord, “for to you I entrust my life” (v. 8).

If the “man after [God’s] own heart” (1 Samuel 13:14) felt lost from time to time, it’s a given we too will need to turn to God for His direction.

What has caused you to feel turned around, possibly confused, maybe even frustrated these days? Why might you be resisting asking God and others for help?

Welcome to John Blase! Meet all our authors at odb.org/all-authors.

Asking God for direction is more than okay—it’s best.

By John Blase | See Other Authors
INSIGHT
The word spirit is used several times in Psalm 143. Twice David refers to the weakness of his own spirit (vv. 4, 7), and once he asks the Spirit of the Lord for guidance (v. 10). Was David referring to the Holy Spirit in his request for guidance? Having both the Old and New Testaments at their disposal, Christians have a more comprehensive understanding of the person and work of the Holy Spirit than ancient Israelites who lacked full revelation. Most of the time when the Spirit of God is referred to in the Old Testament, the author isn’t thinking of the Holy Spirit as a person, even though we understand that’s who was at work. Instead the writers were referring to God’s power, the “breath” of God that empowered and moved people. So when David asks the Spirit to “lead me on level ground” (v. 10), he’s asking for God’s empowering presence to go with him.

J.R. Hudberg

 

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The Greater Glory
January 6, 2019

Read: John 17:1–5, 20–24 | Bible in a Year: Genesis 16–17; Matthew 5:27–48


In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. Luke 2:1

Caesar Augustus is remembered as the first and greatest of the Roman emperors. By political skill and military power he eliminated his enemies, expanded the empire, and lifted Rome from the clutter of rundown neighborhoods into a city of marble statues and temples. Adoring Roman citizens referred to Augustus as the divine father and savior of the human race. As his forty-year reign came to an end, his official last words were, “I found Rome a city of clay but left it a city of marble.” According to his wife, however, his last words were actually, “Have I played the part well? Then applaud as I exit.”

What Augustus didn’t know is that he’d been given a supporting role in a bigger story. In the shadow of his reign, the son of a carpenter was born to reveal something far greater than any Roman military victory, temple, stadium, or palace (Luke 2:1).

But who could have understood the glory Jesus prayed for on the night His countrymen demanded His crucifixion by Roman executioners? (John 17:4–5). Who could have foreseen the hidden wonder of a sacrifice that would be forever applauded in heaven and earth?

It’s quite a story. Our God found us chasing foolish dreams and fighting among ourselves. He left us singing together about an old rugged cross.

Father in heaven, please help us to see through and beyond the passing glory of everything but Your love.

The glory we need is the glory of the cross.

By Mart DeHaan | See Other Authors
INSIGHT
The word glory (or glorify) is very prominent in John’s gospel. In John 17 alone it’s used nine times. It’s derived from the base word doxa, which means “glory,” “honor,” or “praise.” Our word doxology (a short hymn of worship) comes from this term. In John, the word glory surfaces first in chapter 1, verse 14. The second time is in John 2:11 where at Cana we read that Jesus “revealed his glory” by turning water into wine. Through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus, God was and is honored or glorified.

Arthur Jackson

 

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‘When Abram was ninety-nine years old, the Lord appeared to him and said, “I am God Almighty; walk before me faithfully and be blameless.”’ Genesis 17: 1

WALK WITH ME
January 14, 2019

Walk with me. Wouldn’t it be great if, like Abraham, we heard those words from God? After a long, stressful day at work, or a big, blow-up fight with your spouse, or when faced with a huge life decision… Walk with me. On the days when we could really use a face-to-face with the Creator of the Universe, the only one who can see past the current crisis – how can we walk with God?

Just like any relationship, communication is key. It’s a two-way street: I speak and you listen; you speak and I listen. As you learn more about one another, trust, vulnerability, and intimacy develop. Learning to walk with God happens in the same way – by staying close to God through Jesus. We do this by speaking to God through our prayers and listening to God as He speaks through His Word. Simply, we begin to walk with God through prayer and reading the Bible.

Too often we approach God like a negotiator – we hand over a long list of requests backed up by the reasons we deserve them. But, let’s be honest. Is this really the type of friendship we want with anyone? Is this even really a friendship? It probably doesn’t come as much of a surprise that God wants something so much more with us.

Abraham, the only person in the Bible to be called a friend of God, talked with God – praises, doubts, regrets, everything. And he listened to God. Ultimately through it all, he trusted God. And that’s what made him so great. His faith was honest and real.

Through the good and the bad, through faith and doubts, Abraham walked with God. What about you? You have one life and one choice. Walk with God or walk alone. Which one will you choose?

 

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Sharing More Than Stuff
Bible in a Year:

Genesis 39–40; Matthew 11


Your people will be my people and your God my God.



Ruth 1:16
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Today's Scripture & Insight:

Ruth 1:11-18


“But I don’t want to share!” wailed my youngest child, brokenhearted that he would have to part with even one of his many LEGO pieces. I rolled my eyes at his immaturity, but truthfully, this attitude is not limited to children. How much of my own life, and really all of human experience, is marked by a stubborn resistance to freely and generously give to others?

As believers in Jesus, we’re called to share our very lives with one another. Ruth did just that with her mother-in-law, Naomi. As a destitute widow, Naomi had little to offer Ruth. And yet Ruth connected her own life to her mother-in-law’s, vowing that they would press on together and that not even death would separate them. She said to Naomi, “Your people will be my people and your God my God” (Ruth 1:16). She freely and generously gave to the older woman—showing love and compassion.

While sharing our lives in this way can be difficult, we should remember the fruit of such generosity. Ruth shared her life with Naomi, but later she bore a son, the grandfather of King David. Jesus shared His very life with us, but was then exalted and now reigns at the right hand of the Father in heaven. As we generously share with one another, we can be confident that we will experience greater life still!

By Peter Chin

 

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“When he (the jailer) received these order, he put them in the inner cell and fastened their feet in the stocks. About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns of praise to God, and the prisoners were listening to them.”Acts 16: 24-25

PRAISE IN PERSECUTION
January 25, 2019

It’s slightly ironic that Paul, the original religious terrorist who persecuted the early church would find himself arrested, beaten, and chained to a prison wall because of sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ. What is the Gospel? That Christ died on the cross for our sins and rose again three days later. For the very same message that Paul tried to eradicate as heresy, he was later arrested for sharing with anyone who would listen. Unfortunately, the powers that be in Philippi weren’t interested. So in Acts 16, we find Paul and Silas locked away in a prison cell – their second missionary journey seemed to have come to a halt.

How did Paul and Silas respond? They worshiped and praised God from that cell. Now, this was not the typical response to imprisonment and they quickly attracted the attention of all the other prisoners. Talk about a powerful witness!

How do you respond in times of persecution, discrimination, or just the general ups and downs of life? When obstacles pile up, do you stand firm in your faith and cling to the promises of God or do you cave under the pressure? Ask God for faith like Paul and Silas to praise even in trials of discrimination and persecution.