Can you get satisfaction with pride?

Haman definitely had an issue with pride. He boasted to his wife of his great wealth, how many sons he had, the king had just granted and funded his request to annihilate Mordecai and the Jews, and he believed that Esther was honoring him with a banquet. The core belief of pride is “You exist to serve and give to me.” Could the opposite, humility, mean “I exist to serve and help others.” Esther was willing to give her own life to save her people. She submitted to the king’s eunuch and found favor with him. He helped her become queen. Her humility won the respect of the king. When she appeared to him in the courts, he was willing to give her up to half of the kingdom. On the other hand, Haman’s pride led to his destruction. In Chapter 5:13 he says “But all this (the things he boasts about) gives me no satisfaction as long as I see that Jew Mordecai sitting at the king’s gate.” He prepared to hang Mordecai because Mordecai would not fear nor worship him. Pride always leads to destruction. Haman ended up honoring Mordecai and hanging from the gallows that he built.

The Psalm for today sums it up well. Psalm 37:1-2 . . . concerning the sinfulness of the wicked: There is no fear of God (Me: he has pride) before his eyes. For in his own eyes he flatters himself (Boasts) too much to detect or hate his sin. Verse 4: “Even on his bed he plots evil; he commits himself to a sinful course and does not reject what is wrong.” What do you see in your life? Is there any area that you were not able to detect, but that was exposed today?

My prayer today is that God will open my eyes to fear him. Show me the areas I am sinning and teach me to hate it. Help me to have a heart like Esther. Help me to give and improve the lives of others.

Got Wisdom?

Solomon is granted the ultimate question from God “What do you want? Ask anything and I will give it to you.” How did Solomon become the beneficiary of such a wonderful thing? He made a huge sacrifice (1000 burnt offerings. This is an offering of great cost to Solomon and he will not directly benefit from the offering. Other ‘offerings’ could be eaten and enjoyed). What does it communicate when you make a sacrifice for someone? When is the last time someone made a large sacrifice for you? Do feel valued and important? I’m sure that when Solomon offered the largest sacrifice ever made, that God said “Wow, he really believes that I’m important.” What is more incredible is Solomon’s response “Please give me wisdom so I can govern your people well.” Solomon wanted to improve the lives of God’s people. He put others above his own interest. Consequently, God more than blessed him and took care of his needs.  What are you willing to give up for God? How do you think he will bless you for your sacrifice? How will you use that blessing to improve other people’s lives? (Now multiply that blessing times 10 and thank God in advance).

Excellent?

In yesterday’s reading, Solomon asked Hiram, the king of Tyre to help him cut enough lumbar for the temple he wanted to build for God. He gives a great lesson in dealing with people. He says “I will pay you whatever you ask … and I need your help because there is no one so skilled in felling timber than you.” What do you think Hiram’s response was? Have you ever experienced  something like that? How do you motivate people to work for you? This little part of the story inspired me to achieve excellence in what God has called me to do. Solomon never would have recognized Hiram if Hiram was not committed to excellence.

In today’s reading, I love how detailed Solomon was about building the temple. It definitely was a building like no other in magnificence. There is a neat correlation from Old to New Testament today : Solomon built the temple and Stephen, in his speech to the Jewish leaders, says that God does not live in buildings built by humans. God wants to dwell in our hearts. How much room in your heart is there for God to dwell?

Oh No

David messes up again. I’m not 100% sure why counting your fighting men would be considered a sin, unless it is an issue of pride. Consequently, he has to decide from three options how he will suffer because of his sin. David chooses the plague in hopes that God will show mercy. It’s interesting that the bible says that an angel was causing the plague. Also, I love that David was not willing to make a sacrifice that costs him nothing. How much would you sacrifice for God?

The story of Peter and John healing the crippled man is powerful. The crippled man asked for silver and gold, but got a healing instead. He was so excited that he did not want to let go of John and Peter.  Peter gives all the praise to God. He says that it was not his (Peter’s) righteousness that healed the man, but God. God can heal even if we are not righteous. How has God healed you? Is it a physical healing, emotional, or mental?

My prayer today is that God will fill me with his power. I pray for strength and courage to share his love with others.

Your Last words

 David’s last words are challenging and inspirational. He highlights the benefits of leading others in a righteous way with the fear of God. His house is right with God. God has made an everlasting covenant with him and is secure in every part. He will grant every desire that David has. What would you like your last words to be? Would you like to have your family right with God? Would you like to say that you ruled with righteousness and with the fear of God?

When Peter delivered a message to the Jews about Jesus being the Messiah, they were cut to the heart and repented. 3,000 were baptized and accepted Christ as their Lord and Savior. Later they shared everything and everyone had their basic needs met. The part that stood out the most was when Peter said “Death could not hold Jesus in the grave. He rose from the dead and we are witnesses.”

My prayer today is that I will have a grateful heart for what Christ has done for me. I pray that I am cut to the heart and repent from my sins. I praise you God for being faithful, powerful, and merciful. You are incredible.

When Things Go Bad. . .

I love what David does when a situation goes bad. He inquires of the Lord. “God, why am I not receiving your blessing?” (A famine for 3 years hurts) God revealed that Saul had made a bad decision and tried to wipe out a group of people that he was supposed to protect. Have you ever experienced the negative benefits of someone else’s bad decisions? David had to do something very difficult, he had to allow the Gibeonites avenge Saul’s family by killing 7 of Saul’s descendants. I admire David for doing what is right. Have you recently been asked to do something very difficult in order to do what is right? One of my favorite Psalms is 15:4 Blessed is the one who can keep his oath even when it hurts. Is it best to pay the price to represent integrity?

My prayer today is that God will give me the strength to do what is right. Help me to make the tough decisions. God, I pray for wisdom and a desire to go to you when things are tough. I pray for revelation about what I need to change in my life to represent you more. 

Are you a disciple whom Jesus ______

What does it take to get the title “The disciple whom Jesus loved”? When Peter saw Jesus for the first time, he leaped out of the boat and ran through the water to see Jesus. If Jesus was standing on the shore and you were in a boat what would you do? I love how John calls himself the disciple whom Jesus loved. John 13 tells us that “the disciple whom Jesus loved” leaned on Jesus’ chest. He was the disciple who wanted to be closest to the heart of God. As a result of desiring to know God’s heart, John earned the title “The disciple whom Jesus loved.” What do you think God desires? What is most important to him? What is preventing you from getting to closer to his heart?

David experienced God’s favor in many ways because he was known as the man with a heart after God’s own heart. Because of David’s humility, God took the kingdom from Absalom and gave it back to David. When he returned to Jerusalem, several people confessed that they had sinned against him in the way that they treated David when he left. David forgave Shimei for cursing him and pelting him with rocks when he fled from Absalom. David didn’t even succumb to peer pressure from the leaders to put Shimei to death. How do you respond to those who curse you? What would you do if you had the power to put them to death? On the other hand, Sheba outright rebels against David’s authority to rule. David has to pursue him to end his threatening behavior. Are you in rebellion to someone that God has put in authority over you? Is there a lesson that God wants you to learn while you are under that person’s authority?

My prayer today is that I will submit to God’s law and bless those who are in authority over me. I pray for a heart like  Shimei and to admit quickly when I have done wrong. I pray for wisdom in leadership to know when to show mercy and when to punish rebellion. Most of all I pray for heart after God’s own heart. God please give me a strong desire to know and act upon what is in your heart. Thank you for the awesome people in my life.

I AM____

2 Samuel 14:14 is one of my favorite verses. The old woman comes to David and asks him to allow Absalom to return to Jerusalem. She says “God does not take away life; instead, he devises ways so that a banished person may not remain estranged from him.” Isn’t it awesome that God is always looking for ways to bring healing to families and bring people back to himself? Is there someone that God is bringing to mind who does not know him? Pray for them to experience God’s love and power. I remember a story of a woman who prayed for her husband for 50 years to come to know Christ. One day, on Sunday morning, he got up and said “I think I’ll go to church today.” He went and received Christ as his Lord and Savior and never stopped going.

Once Absalom is allowed to return to Jerusalem, David never goes to see him. Absalom even sets Joab’s field on fire to try and get his father’s attention. How hard is it for your kids to get your attention? Finally David is distracted from listening to his people. Absalom uses David’s neglect, to win the hearts of the people by promising them justice. Soon Absalom is able to remove David as king.

Judas’ betrayal is very similar to Absalom. When the guards arrive to arrest Jesus, Judas betrays with a kiss. The guards ask Jesus who he is. Jesus responds “I AM.” I’ve heard that he used the same word that Moses heard when he asked God what is name was. There is definitely power in that name because the guards actually fall to the ground. Does the name Jesus have power in your life? Who is he to you?

My prayer is that I will have a respect for the name of Jesus and allow his power to change my life. I pray that I can focus on the people that God has asked me to serve. I also pray for those who don’t know God and haven’t experienced his tremendous love.

Family Strife

Amnon believed that having his sister Tamar would be the best thing in the world. He devises a plan to bring her into his bedroom. Tamar pleads with him not to force her, but to wait. The king would grant his request and she could be his wife. After he forced her to be with him, his “love” turns to hatred and he demands that she leave. Absalom gets furious and kills Amnon two years later. Then he flees. There’s no doubt that David’s family is in total chaos. It doesn’t like he did anything about the way Amnon treated Tamar. Have you ever experienced someone getting away with a terrible injustice? How does it make you feel? Because of what Absalom did to Amnon, he is estranged from David, but David longs for his son Absalom. I imagine David’s heart is crushed.

My prayer today is that God  will reconcile all the relationships that are estranged. I pray for his protection against any temptation that will destroy my family like it did to David’s family.

Conviction

I definitely appreciate David’s response to being confronted with his sin. Nathan tells a parable of rich man and a poor man. The rich man takes the poor man’s only sheep and uses it to prepare a meal for a traveler. After the story David burns with anger. To me this is how God responds when I sin. David says “Surely the rich man deserves to be put to death.” I wonder what David felt in his heart when Nathan said “You are that man.” What do you think should be the punishment for his sin? David has to go through the death of his son, and more to come. God also tells him that his wives will be given to someone close to him and what he did in secret will be done in plain daylight.  David then confesses that he has sinned against God. Has there been a time in your life when you were confronted with something that you did wrong and you got defensive or blamed something else? It’s too bad that the reading from Psalm today wasn’t Psalm 51 because it shows how David pours out his heart to God and asked for forgiveness.  My favorite verse today is 17: My sacrifice, O God, is a broken and contrite heart that you will not despise.

The New Testament reading parallels the Old Testament reading by Jesus describing how the Holy Spirit will convict. Just like Nathan convicted David, the Holy Spirit is the Spirit of truth and he will convict the world of their guilt.

Is there something that you have been hiding? 1 John 1:9 says if we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive our sins.

My prayer today is that God will give me a heart that is quick to confess and reject sin the sin in my life. Help me to hear when I have done wrong and give me the strength to make it right.

5-26-12 Who's your best friend

This post is for yesterday

I admire how David treated Mephibosheth, Jonathan’s son, and kept his word that he would show kindness to Jonathan’s family. Mephibosheth’s statement when he is brought to the king is astounding “Who am I that you should notice a dead dog like me?” Mephibosheth was lame in both feet and he had a crushed spirit. What would it take for him to realize how important he is to God?

What happens when you sit back and watch other people fight your battles? What happens if you don’t allow someone to hold you accountable? David quickly found himself getting into trouble. His best friend Jonathan died in 1^st Samuel. In 2^nd Samuel the bible doesn’t mention him replacing that close relationship with someone else. David tried to fill the hole in his heart by taking on more wives. He messed up big time when he took Bathsheba and had her husband, Uriah, murdered.

Jesus gives a great recommendation “Remain in me” as he explains to his disciples that he is the vine. He continues to proclaim that the leaders sinned greatly because they saw the miracles that he performed, and continued to hate him. Once again he asked them to love each other by doing what he commands.

My prayer is that I will humble myself and do what God asks with a cheerful heart. I ask that God will bring more awesome people into my life that I can trust to hold me accountable. I pray that God will give me a heart to show kindness to others like David did to Mephibosheth.

You won the lottery

God did something amazing for David. He removed his enemies and made peace in the land of Israel. What would you do if God wiped out all of your enemies, no one opposed you, and everyone had to do exactly what you said? (It would be kind of like winning the lottery) I think it’s important that David went through a challenging time with Saul because it developed the character that David needed to be a strong leader. When there was peace in the land, David felt guilty that he was living in a palace of cedar and God was dwelling in a tent. David wanted to honor God with a magnificent mansion next to him. If you could build a room in your house for God, what would it look like? Because David had a heart after God, God promised him that he would make his name great. What is the evidence of David’s heart for God? I noticed in Psalms 119 that David asked God to teach him the law. David saw the law as a way of protection. It’s interesting that Jesus tells his disciples in his final days with them that they will show their love for God by obeying his commands. Judas (Not Judas Iscaroit) asked why Jesus intends to show himself to the disciples but not to the world. Jesus’ response is fascinating. He says that “Anyone who loves me will obey my teaching.”

Is there a part of Jesus’ teaching that I have relaxed my resolve? Do I have David’s passion to know God’s law and follow it? How do I view the law? Am I in rebellion to any part of it?

My prayer today is that I will have a burning passion to know God’s word and apply it in my life. God please give me wisdom and understanding so I can love others.

Disciple?

Peter is very quick to proclaim that he would die for Jesus, but Jesus tells him that he will deny him three times. I admire Peter’s heart and his desire to honor God. David was willing to do the same thing. When the Philistines surrounded him, he did something different than Peter, he inquired of God. David asked God “Should I attack?” God answered him with how to attack. When David followed God’s instructions, he had success. Then he was able to celebrate and worship with all his heart. His wife Michael became jealous because David was dancing in an undignified way before slave girls. Because Michael didn’t worship God whole heartedly, she remained childless for the rest of her life.

Also, John 13:34 is one of my favorite verses. You will know that I am a disciple by the love that I show towards others.

Is there a big decision that you are facing? What does God want you to do? How can you worship him wholeheartedly today? Is envy robbing you of your relationship with God? How can you love someone else today?

My prayer today is that I can remove all the distractions that are preventing me from clearly hearing and seeing God. I pray that I can honor God with the way that I love others and treat them.

How do you renew your strength

The Philistine kings did not allow David to fight against his own people (very smart). When he went back home, the Amalekites had taken all of his men’s family and provisions. They were so angry at him that they wanted to stone him. However, David went to the priest to inquire of the Lord “Shall I over take them?” The Lord responded that he would give David success. Where do you go when you are faced with a difficult situation? How refreshing it is when God promises victory. God gives David another victory. Saul is killed in the battled with the Philistines. Now David has the opportunity to become king.

The New Testament reading today is pretty powerful. Judas loves money more than serving the poor, but he acted like he was concerned about them. The woman poured expensive perfume on Jesus to anoint him. This infuriated Judas because he wanted to sell the perfume and help himself to the money. Is there anything that blinds you to the needs of the poor?

Where do you find your strength? How does God renew your strength? Which of his promises gives you peace?

My prayer today is that I can find strength in the Lord and get excited that he has given me a spirit of love, power, and a sound mind. I pray that I can see the needs of others and meet those needs with compassion. 

Who are you listening to?

Saul lived a life of fear. He worried about what others thought. He was afraid David was going to become king etc. Saul’s fear caused him to sin in many ways. Finally, when he couldn’t hear from God he goes to a medium to conjure Samuel from the dead. Samuel gives him a bad report but one that is consistent with his earlier prophesy. Samuel said that Saul would perish because he did not follow God’s instructions and wipe out the evil Amalekites. When Saul heard the news and realized his end was soon, he lost all his strength. There is a huge difference between Saul and Jesus. Because Jesus obeyed everything God told him to do, they had unity. Jesus was able to perform a miracle of bringing Lazarus from the dead. Many people believed in Jesus because of this miracle, but the leaders hardened their hearts and worried about losing their place and nation. The leaders then looked for an opportunity to kill Jesus and Lazarus.

What do you do when you don’t hear from God? Why do I sometimes not hear from God? What do I need to change in order to be like Jesus and the opposite of Saul and the leaders of Israel during Jesus’ time on earth?

My prayer today is that God will give me the strength to evaluate my own life and find areas where fear has a hold of me. God give me a passion to hear your voice and follow your instructions 100%. 

Murder

Saul's downward cycle continues when he killed an innocent priest of God. Saul believed that the priest of Nod knowingly helped David to flee. Saul had all of the priest murdered, and destroyed the women, men, children and infants of Nod. It’s amazing how his envy led to paranoia and he believed everyone took David’s side. It is evident that Satan had a hold of Saul. Jesus mentions in John that the enemy comes to steal, kill and destroy. I imagine that David must have been going through one of the most challenging times in his life. Here he was helping so many people by fighting the Philistines and rescuing towns, yet his life was continually in danger from his own king. I'm blown away that David would continue to fight for Saul even after the way Saul treated him. I like what David said to one of the priest who escaped from Saul’s death sentence “The one who seeks your life also seeks mine, but you are safe here.” Even though the enemy seeks your life, Jesus is protecting you. He is the good Shepherd. My prayer today is that I will continue to do what God has called me to do even when it is difficult. 


I also love the Proverbs of the day "The way of the sluggard is paved with thorns, but the path of the upright is a highway." Let's remove the thorns and stand up for what is right.

Betrayal

Jonathan experienced one of the most emotionally painful things someone can go through, betrayal of a loved one. His father, out of envy, wanted to kill David and didn’t confide in Jonathan. When Jonathan found out, he became so angry that he couldn’t eat for an entire day. Has there been someone in your life that has betrayed you? How do you forgive that person? For me it’s a challenge to see the person’s point of view and understand how they could be so blind, but when I do, I find it is easier to let it go. Jesus had to deal with the blindness of the leaders. They refused to believe that he performed this wonderful miracle for the blind man, and focused on the Sabbath being broken. How sad. Consequently, Jesus said that they will remain blind and he could not take away their guilt. My prayer today is that God will open my eyes so I can forgive quicker.

Your Purpose

Yesterday we read that God greets Gideon and calls him a “Mighty Warrior.” I can see Gideon’s disbelieving face respond “Who me?” He tests God several times with the fleece and comes to the conclusion that he is a mighty warrior. What is God calling you today? It’s interesting to me that God always gives someone a name that causes them to become better than what they currently are. I remember painfully struggling with public speaking. I felt a prompting to do it, but it was always an awful experience. Finally I asked God “Why does public speaking torture me so much? He replied “I gave you something important to say. Stop being afraid to say it. Use words to bless others.” My fear left. What is the purpose that God has given you?

I love how God had to dwindle the numbers of Gideon’s army down from 30,000 to 300 so that Israel couldn’t boast that they did it. Gideon takes these 300 men and defeats 135,000 soldiers with trumpets and clay jars. Wow!

I also liked the Psalm 97:10 Let those who love the Lord hate evil. . .   On the love/hate scale (1 – 10) how much do you hate evil? If you wanted to get rid of evil, would you start with someone else or yourself? I noticed several areas where I have tolerated evil in my life.  My prayer today is that God will give me the passion to hate the evil in my life, give 100% to accomplishing the purpose God has given me, and humble myself like the thief on the cross next to Jesus.

Conflict resolution

Proverbs 13:10 Pride breeds quarrels, but wisdom is found in those who take advice. What areas do you experience the most conflict? Those are the places where you will discover pride.  “I’m right” leads to hardening of the attitudes and a rejection of advice. When we can’t learn from others, wisdom is gone. Not a good cycle. A different cycle starts with understanding from another person’s perspective. This leads to forgiveness. Who needs forgiveness in your life?   

Follow wholeheartedly

I love the story of Caleb. The statement that he made “I followed the Lord wholeheartedly” is awesome. If I were one of the 10 spies that searched the promise land, what would my report be? Either I believe that my God will deliver on his promise, or the enemies are too strong for my God. Because Caleb was one of the ones who believed that his God was bigger than the problem, he entered the promise land. The Old Testament reading today ties in well with the New Testament reading. Jesus tells a parable of an unjust judge who denied a widow justice until her persistence wore him out. Caleb had to wait patiently to see the promise land. My prayer today is that I will have the courage to wholeheartedly follow Jesus all the days of my life and to persistently pursue the calling God has given me.

Better is One Day

I love how God has to remind Joshua not to be afraid because no matter what comes against him, God will give him victory. A huge army, as numerous as the sands in the sea shore, came against Joshua. However, Joshua won. It’s amazing the level of confidence I can have when I know that I’m walking in God’s will and purpose for my life. It’s obvious that it’s not going to be easy, but I know who is going to win. I love the Psalm of today “Better is one day in your courts, than a thousand elsewhere.” I also like the story of the 10 men with leprosy. Only one, who was a foreigner, came back to praise God for what Jesus did. It reminds of some of the things that God has done for me. What has he done for you? Finally, it’s important to be ready for when Christ comes back. He said it will be like a thief coming in the middle of the night. Is there a habit that you would change if you knew Jesus was coming back this afternoon?

Pray before deciding

 Why is it important to pray before making decisions? Joshua was deceived by the Gibeon pretended to come from a distant land. They made a treaty of peace with Joshua and it turned out that they were actually neighbors. What would have happened if Joshua had asked God before he made the treaty? Next, I was fascinated by how God wiped out Joshua’s enemies. He caused hail to destroy the army that was attacking Joshua. He listened to Joshua and caused the sun to stay up so Joshua could pursue his enemies longer. Wow! That’s incredible. Verse 42 sums it up “Joshua conquered all these kings and lands in one campaign, because the Lord the God of Israel, fought for Israel.” What would it take for God to fight for our country?

Luke 16:19 – The story of the rich man going to hell is sobering. The story demonstrates the selfishness of this man. The rich man selfishly asked Abraham to send Lazarus to bring him water. Unfortunately, it is finalized. The rich man will be in torment forever. When he realized his condition, he asked for someone to go to his 5 brothers. Who do you know who needs to hear the great message of God’s love today? The new church that I’m attending is doing an outreach in a few weeks. I’m very excited about participating.

My prayer today is to have the courage to share the awesome things that God does and to be in prayer about all my decisions. I’m so thankful for my incredible family and friends.

Who is your point man?

In the military, the point man is the soldier who is first into battle. It’s the most dangerous position because he is the first one that the enemy will see. When Joshua marched against Jericho, they sent the arc and the priest in first. Why not the mightiest and strongest fighters in the army? I believe it’s because when God is my point man, my enemies don’t stand a chance. The walls of Jericho crumbled with one loud war cry and the city was quickly taken. What allowed God to be their point man? They were careful to do everything He said. I can imagine, after 6 days of marching around the city, to wonder if God was really going to do something. How tempting it must have been to say “I don’t believe God is going to take this city.” Fortunately, everyone was silent until it was time to shout.

On the other hand, Achan rebels against God’s command to give everything in the city of Jericho as a tithe to him. Achan steals gold, silver, and clothes, and hides them under his tent. Consequently, when Joshua went to take the tiny town of Ai, they failed miserably. God wasn’t enlisted as the point man due to one man’s sin. Once Achan was stoned, God was able to give his people success in accomplishing his purpose.

What is God’s purpose? Yesterday’s reading powerfully demonstrates what is most important to God – reaching the lost. Jesus gives three parables about the joy of finding what was lost: The sheep, coin, and son. There is no doubt that He wants to reach those who have never experienced his love, peace, healing . . .

My prayer today is that I can completely surrender my life to him, submit, and enlist him as my point man to fight my battles so I can accomplish the purpose he has for my life.

Rich towards God

Be rich towards God. I love the parable of the rich man who was successful in creating an abundance of food. He decided to build bigger barns and sit back and take it easy. However, his life was demanded of him that night. Jesus shares that the moral of the story is to be rich towards God. God wanted him to use his abundance to bless others instead of buying comfort for himself. Jesus goes on to say that where our treasure is, there our heart is. The rich man invested all of his money in the pleasures of life. There is no doubt that God wants us to be blessed. He told Moses and Joshua that the promise land would be flowing with milk and honey. The key is to seek the kingdom of heaven first. What % of your income do you want to go towards expanding God’s kingdom? Wouldn’t it be awesome to be a 90/10 Christian? 90% of your income goes towards doing God’s will. Today’s reading convicted me of areas where I have rebellion and pride. God commanded Moses to teach the Israelites a song so they would not forget what God had done for them to bring them into the promise land. Moses taught them the song because he knew their rebellion would increase once he died.

I also like how God commands the Israelites to be strong and courageous. He promised to go before the Israelites and fight the battles to give them the promise land. Receiving the blessing requires a strength, courage, and a fight. My prayer is that God will give me the strength, courage, and stamina to fight to share his love.

A gift for God?

God told the Israelites to celebrate feasts and rejoice. It’s interesting that it was a command to be joyful. Sometimes the world’s negativity can steal our joy and make it difficult to rejoice. I think God put these feast in place to combat the negativity. During three of the feasts , he required them to bring a gift to give to God. The gift is supposed to be in proportion to the size of the way God has blessed you. This made me think, what gift would I bring to give to God? (a good attitude, a joyful giving heart, thoughtfulness of others.) What would you bring? Giving has definitely been an area of challenge for me. I’m so grateful for my wife who loves to give and bless others. She has taught me so much. Giving requires trust in God. Trust that he will replenish what you give. I love how the New Testament reading today shows that Jesus fulfills this. There were 5,000 hungry people. Jesus was able to feed them with 5 loaves of bread and 2 fish. It’s awesome that God can and will meet our needs. Finally, I love God’s command to the King to write the law and read it every day. The king was supposed to write the law and meditate on it every day so he wouldn’t get arrogant and think that he was better than others. What is your plan to put God’s law on your heart? My prayer today is that I can bring a gift to God in proportion to what I believe he will bless me with, instead of what he has already blessed me. Also that I can remember and put his law on my heart.

Tolerant?

God’s intolerance of evil is evident in Deuteronomy. He asked the Israelites to completely wipe out their enemies and specifically not to intermarry. He said that if they did not, they would be enticed to worship other gods and loose the blessing. He also said not to forget that God was the one who enables them to create wealth. Be on guard against pride in your heart and remember that God is the one who brings you through the dessert. You might be eating some manna today. Just keep in mind that the promise land is not very far away. I also love Psalm 69. David is in distress because his enemies mock him, but God will deliver him. Finally, Jesus’ parable of the man who had a big debt and was forgiven has a huge reason to forgive others. It reminded me that I have messed up a lot and need God’s forgiveness. I’m very thankful for God’s mercifulness and grace. My prayer today is that God will fill me with his Spirit and there will be much fruit.

Baptized?

Today I found it very interesting that it says that all who heard Jesus proclaimed that “God’s way is right.” That word ‘ALL’ included the tax collectors. However, there was one group that was excluded, the Pharisees. It says that the Pharisees were not baptized by John. In other words, they were not willing to repent. Later, Jesus confronts the Pharisees because of their changing views. They saw John as a demon possessed man because he did not eat and drink. They saw Jesus as a drunkard and a glutton because he ate and drank with sinners. It’s fascinating how the Pharisees could find an excuse to stay where they were and not repent or acknowledge that God’s ways are right. I love the correlation to the Old Testament reading today. God gives Moses the 10 commandments and tells them that he will bless their families to a 1,000 generations IF they do not forget the Lord their God when they go into the land flowing with milk and honey. He asks them to remember that it was God who brought them out of slavery in Egypt and gave them wells they did not dig, vineyards they did not plant, and homes they did not build. My prayer today is that I will acknowledge that God’s ways are right and be diligent to follow them and teach them to my daughter.

The longest journey

It took the Israelites 40 years to go a distance that should have taken 11 days. Is there something in your life that seems to be taking forever to accomplish? A promotion at work, a breakthrough in a relationship, etc? The Israelites never got to see the promise land because they focused on their enemies instead of their God. One of the names of God is “Banner of Victory.” God has never lost a fight against evil and he never will. Trust him. Believe that he is your provider, healer and deliverer. Then you will see God work a miracle. My wife told me the other day that she will believe it when she sees it. God says you have to believe it first, then you will see it. Psalm 66:12 says he brought us to a place of abundance. What we do with that abundance will determine if God’s blessing becomes a blessing or a curse. Proverbs 11:24-26 says that one man gives freely, yet gains more; another withholds and comes to poverty. A generous man will prosper and the one who refreshes others will himself be refreshed. People curse the man who hoards, but blessings come to those who sell. My prayer today is that God will give me faith in his abundant provision so I can give, be refreshing to others, and share with others.

God speaks and what does he say?

God is a just God. He hears the pleas of those who are left out. Some daughters of the an Israelite tribe were left without a father or husband to take care of them. They asked for their father’s inheritance and God granted their request. I also like how God affirms us. When Jesus was baptized, God spoke and said “This is my son, whom I love and am well pleased.” I believe he says that of each of us. Have you heard him say that lately? David responds in the Psalm – For my soul finds rest in God alone; my salvation comes from him. I like all the connections between the passages today. John the Baptist preached repentance leads to salvation. Unfortunately Herod did not listen and put John in jail. My prayer today is that I can hear God’s voice and that my heart will be quick to forgive. 

Unbelief isn't worth getting a plague

I’m amazed at the Israelites stubbornness. They saw the earth swallow Koran and his rebellious group and they accused Moses of killing the true leaders from God. It also amazed me that Moses had Aaron pray to God for mercy on the people who were accusing him. The plague fortunately stopped, but it killed quite a few people. Unbelief is dangerous. In Mark, Jesus rebukes his disciples for not believing that he had risen from the dead. Have you ever experienced someone who didn’t believe in you? Is it difficult to be around that person? I’m seeing that if I don’t believe in God and what he says, He isn’t going to want to be around me. My prayer today is that God will remove any unbelief. I praise you God for always delivering on what you say. I also pray for those who accuse me, that God will have mercy on them.  

Quick to forgive and give

A fool delights in evil conduct, but a man of understanding delights in wisdom. What a great Proverb. I like how it relates to today’s Psalm : Be still and know that I am God. There are many distractions that scream for my time and make it difficult for me to be still. One of them could be unforgiveness. Jesus tells his disciples when they pray, to forgive, so God can forgive our sins. My good friend Praveen shares his wisdom with me “Travis when you are having a difficult time forgiving someone, just ask God for a heart that forgives quickly. That is a prayer that he is happy to answer.”

Today’s devotion has a lot to say about money. Leviticus mentions the importance of the tithe. It’s almost like God is asking me to have faith (even the size of a mustard seed) that he will provide for me. The principle of the tithe is “Who do you trust to take care of you is who you give your money to first.” That is one reason why our government takes the taxes first. I’m just curious if anyone has any discussion about whether it’s best to tithe from gross or net? Next Jesus goes into the temple courts and drives out the money changers. His anger at extortion and taking advantage of others is strong. God definitely wants me to help other people.

My prayer today is that I can have a heart that forgives quickly, gives to God first, and opportunities to bless other people. 

Riches vs God

Riches are one of God’s biggest competitors. Jesus asked the rich man to give up everything he had and follow him. Before Jesus’ question, the rich man was very proud that he was following the law. He became sad when God asked him to sacrifice his lifestyle. What do you think would have happened if he had given up his riches? In my life I noticed that God ALWAYS blesses me abundantly more when I demonstrate that he is number 1 in my life.

Jesus then makes a powerful statement “It’s easier for a camel to go through an eye of the needle than it is for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.” This statement has caused a lot of debate. Is it bad to be rich? Is the eye of the needle a place where camels can actually go through (ha ha). I think the meaning of this statement can be found later in the chapter. Jesus says “With God all things are possible.” I see it that it is not easier for a poor man to enter the kingdom of heaven without God. In fact it’s impossible for anyone to enter the kingdom of God with out God. Rich people might have more difficulty acknowledging God as their Lord though.  “The last will be first and the first will be last.”

My prayer today is that I can renounce money as my god and seek after the true God. The wealthiest position to have is his presence. I also pray for a giving heart, as Jesus commanded the rich man to give to the poor. 

Unclean vs Clean

What comes out of a man makes him unclean. Then Jesus lists some things that make someone unclean : evil thoughts sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, greed, malice, deceit, lewdenss, envy, slander, arrogance, and folly. That is quite a list. I like the correlation from Mark and Leviticus. Leviticus spells out in great detail what makes a person “unclean.” This list deals with external circumstances. Jesus’ list deals with the condition of the heart. My prayer today is that God will remove the un-cleanliness of my heart so I can worship him.  I heard a great quote this week “Allowing unforgiveness in your heart is like drinking poison and hoping someone else dies.” Finally, I love Psalm 40:17 “You are my help and my deliverer. Thank you God!

A Farmer's story

I am amazed at Jesus’ ability to tell a great story. The farmer goes to sow seed. . . birds. . . rocks . . . thorns . . . good soil. This parable stimulated some questions in my heart. How do you get rid of the birds? What makes the ground hard? Where is the round up for the thorns? What is it like to harvest from good soil? Jesus relates the birds to Satan stealing the word (seed). How can I guard God’s Word so they won’t be stolen?  Next, the rocks don’t allow the seed to grow roots into the ground. The sun soon scorches them. I pray for a passion for your Word so I can know you better God. The thorns are the distractions and unhealthy desires. My prayer is that today God will put spiritual round up on any desire that is not beneficial for expanding his kingdom. I pray that I can be one that sees and perceives, hear and understand, turn from evil ways and be forgiven. Thank you for being a merciful God. 

New Name

Leviticus 6-7:27; Psalm 37:1-11; Proverbs 10:3-4; Mark 3:7-30

I like how Jesus changes people’s names. He gave John and James the name “Sons of thunder” and he changed Simon’s name to Peter. If God could change your name today, what would he change it to? I would love to be rock solid when it comes to following God’s commands. I would love to be called a son of Thunder when it comes to sharing God’s love to others. Psalms 37 enlightened me on how to do that. Be still and wait patiently for the Lord. Do not fret because of evil men or be jealous of those who do wrong. Refrain from being angry and run from wrath. Soon the wicked will be no more. The meek will inherit the land and experience great peace. WOW! What a wonderful Psalm.  I also liked Proverbs 10:4 Lazy hands lead to poverty, but a diligent hand leads to wealth. I watched Tim Tebow’s movie last night and I’m very inspired to work hard. I pray that he continues to deliver a powerful message of hard work and good character. My prayer today is that God will take away all my anger, worry, jealousy, and wrath, so I can work hard to do good and bless others.

Healing Stories

Leviticus 4-5:19; Psalm 36:1-12; Proverbs 10:1-2; Mark 2:13-3:6

What a bunch of great stories of Jesus healing people and doing wonderful things. His anger towards the people with stubborn hearts was convicting. I see that I’ve allowed some pride to harden my heart. I really liked the story about Jesus healing the man’s shriveled hand. Before he performs the miracle, he asks the question. Is it lawful to do good or evil on the Sabbath,  to save life or kill? Then the room becomes silent. Unfortunately, the Pharisees loved the law so much that they were blinded to the needs of others. I’m sure they felt very threatened when Jesus did good on the Sabbath and many people praised God because of him. My prayer today is that I will see the needs of others and do good towards them and praise God for his power to heal. 


The Proverbs reading was also powerful for me today. Ill gotten treasures are of no value. The correlation between Mark 2 and Proverbs 10 is that when I think of others and help their life to improve I gain real treasure. What do you think?


What can God heal in you today? A physical challenge, a relationship challenge, a sin challenge?


What can you praise God for today? (Thank you for my awesome family and the people I get to work with!!)

Guaranteed to Bless your day

Exodus 35:10-36:38
Matthew 27:32-66
Psalm 34:1-10
Proverbs 9:7-8

Today Psalm 34 was so powerful for me that I decided to memorize it. I see the benefit of always praising God, even when you are going through a difficult time. Benefit number 1 : he answered me. Have you ever tried to talk to someone who passionately ignored you (Perhaps because you were speaking to them without love or respect? Ouch I’m convicted.) The first 4 verses challenged me to approach God with praise and thankfulness. He answers me (amazing). Then he delivers me from all my fears (Perfect love drives out all fear). When I look on him, I become radiant. There is the example of Moses that we just read about yesterday. The radiance wipes away my shame (Probably like windshield wipers J ). The poor man called, and the Lord saved him from ALL ALL ALL of his troubles. I like how it doesn’t say “Just a few.”

The next verse is what really grabbed my attention : The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear him, and he delivers them! Wow, can you see an angel encamped around you and protecting you. I hope it’s the angel that protected Hezekiah when the Assyrians were attacking their city. That angel destroyed 180,000 of the enemy soldiers.

What are your thoughts on the rest of Psalm 34?

My prayer today : God help me to always have praise on my lips for what you are doing in my life. I thank you for your gentle answer “I love you Travis” You are such an amazing God! I pray that you touch the heart of whoever is reading this and let them know how much you care about them. Give them a hope for a better future. Let them know that you will deliver them from everything. Remove all my shame and guilt so I can radiate you to others. Thank you GOD!! 

Poor leadership

Exodus 34:1-35:9
Matthew 27:15-31
Psalm 33:12-22
Proverbs 9:1-6

Moses spent 40 days and nights talking with God. When he was done, he had to put a veil over his face because it radiated so brightly. When he came down from the mountain, he shared a lot of great boundaries that would keep the people from experiencing a lot of pain. One of those is to keep the Sabbath holy and rest. This one stuck out to me because last week I worked on Sunday and I definitely had a more challenging week than normal.

On the other hand, Pilate was a much different leader than Moses (at least when you compare these chapters of the Old and New Testament). The chief priests and Pharisees wanted to execute Jesus because they perceived that Jesus threatened their power. They pressured Pilate to release Barabbas instead of Jesus. When the people created an uproar, Pilate perceived that his power was threatened and gave in to them. Is anyone having difficulty with peer pressure? God I pray that you help me do what is right even if causes me to be unpopular.

Mountain top Experience

Exodus 32:1 – 33:23


Wow! I shouldn’t be amazed at how fast the Israelites wanted a new god when they couldn’t see Moses. This story reminds me of a statement Pastor Chris Hodges says about the Israelites at a time like this. They wanted a God that doesn’t require much of them. The golden calf just stood there. On the other hand God wants me to be patient. The Israelites couldn’t wait until Moses came back from the mountain. The Israelites said in the previous chapter that they didn’t want to hear the voice of God because they would die. Lord I pray that I hear your voice today. Let the part of me that hurts others die. Birth in me your spirit and a strong desire to serve others. Help me to think of others. I love you and thank you for your word. I also really liked the description of Moses on the mountain. He was willing to hear the voice of God and he desired to see God. I love the part where it mentions that the goodness of God will pass in front of Moses but God would not let him see his face. That must have been an amazing sight. I wonder what pure goodness looks like? I look forward to one day seeing the face of God and worshipping him without this sinful body. I can see him smiling J