tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33875396287324393742024-02-18T20:26:54.027-08:00BlessingsShowers of blessings await those who will partake of the nuggets of inspirations contained in this blog. My personal prayers go out to you and your loved ones. God bless you all.Mel Alarillahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09466666269959062902noreply@blogger.comBlogger1048125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3387539628732439374.post-67936978231794941842015-01-12T11:27:00.000-08:002015-01-12T11:27:16.968-08:00A Re-post From Dave Branon of Our Daily Bread<nav class="nav-single">
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<header class="entry-header">
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</span>
<h1 class="entry-title">
Out Of The Darkness</h1>
<div class="entry-meta">
<span class="entry-author">
By <a href="http://odb.org/authors/davebranon">Dave Branon</a>
</span>
</div>
</header><div class="side-box">
<br /><div class="meta-box">
Read: <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+77%3A1-15" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">Psalm 77:1-15</a></div>
<div class="meta-box">
I cried out to God . . . . Who is so great a God as our God? —<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+77%3A1%2C13" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">Psalm 77:1,13</a></div>
<div class="meta-box">
Bible in a Year:<br /><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Genesis+31-32%3B+Matthew+9%3A18-38" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">Genesis 31-32; Matthew 9:18-38</a></div>
</div>
<div class="post-content">
I don’t know what desperate situation gripped Asaph, the writer of
Psalm 77, but I’ve heard, and made, similar laments. Over the past dozen
years since I lost my daughter, many others who have experienced the
loss of a loved one have shared with me heartbreaking sentiments like
these:<br />
Crying out to God (v.1). Stretching empty arms heavenward (v.2).
Experiencing troubling thoughts about God because of horrible
circumstances (v.3). Enduring unspeakable trouble (v.4). Cowering under
the feeling of being cast aside (v.7). Fearing failed promises (v.8).
Fearing a lack of mercy (v.8).<br />
But a turnaround occurs for Asaph in verse 10 through a recollection
of God’s great works. Thoughts turn to God’s love. To memories of what
He has done. To His marvelous deeds of old. To the comfort of God’s
faithfulness and mercy. To reminders of God’s wonders and greatness. To
His strength and redemption.<br />
Despair is real in this life, and answers do not come easily. Yet in
the darkness—as we remember God’s glory, majesty, power, and love—our
despair can slowly subside. Like Asaph, we can rehearse God’s acts,
especially the salvation He brought through Jesus, and we can return to
where we once were—resting gratefully in His mighty love.<br />
</div>
<div class="poem-box">
Lord, we cannot fathom the depth of Your character<br />or the wisdom of Your actions when trouble visits us.<br />Help us to inch our way back into Your arms through<br />a rehearsal of Your goodness and a recollection of Your glorious love.</div>
<div class="thought-box">
Remembering the past can bring hope to the present.</div>
<div class="insight-wrapper">
<div class="insight-box">
<h4 class="insight-header">
Insight</h4>
King
David enlisted three Levitical choirs and orchestras for the temple
worship, led by Asaph, Jeduthun (or Ethan), and Heman (1 Chron.
16:37-41; 25:1-6; 2 Chron. 5:12). Psalm 77 was written by Asaph for
Jeduthun. Asaph also composed Psalms 50 and 73-83.</div>
</div>
Mel Alarillahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09466666269959062902noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3387539628732439374.post-1978085758256933172015-01-04T09:27:00.002-08:002015-01-04T09:27:16.146-08:00A Re-post From Bill Crowder of Our Daily Bread<nav class="nav-single">
<a class="article-prev" href="http://odb.org/2015/01/04/the-beautiful-bride/" title="Previous Day"> </a>
<a class="calendar-toggle" href="http://odb.org/#">January 5, 2015<span class="calendar-icon"></span></a>
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<header class="entry-header">
<span class="bookmark-wrapper">
</span>
<h1 class="entry-title">
Assembly Required</h1>
<div class="entry-meta">
<span class="entry-author">
By <a href="http://odb.org/authors/billcrowder">Bill Crowder</a>
</span>
</div>
</header><div class="side-box">
<br /><div class="meta-box">
Read: <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Philippians+4%3A4-13" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">Philippians 4:4-13</a></div>
<div class="meta-box">
Be anxious for nothing, but . . . let your requests be made known to God. —<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Philippians+4%3A6" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">Philippians 4:6</a></div>
<div class="meta-box">
Bible in a Year:<br /><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Genesis+13-15%3B+Matthew+5%3A1-26" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">Genesis 13-15; Matthew 5:1-26</a></div>
</div>
<div class="post-content">
When our daughter and her fiancé began receiving wedding presents,
it was a happy time. One gift they received was a bench cabinet that had
to be assembled—and I volunteered for the task because they already had
so much to do to prepare for the wedding. Although it took a couple of
hours, it was much easier than expected. All of the wooden pieces were
precut and predrilled, and all the hardware for assembly was included.
The instructions were virtually foolproof.<br />
Unfortunately, most of life isn’t that way. Life doesn’t carry with
it simple instructions, nor do we find all of the necessary parts in
hand. We face situations with no clear idea of what we’re getting into
or what it will take to pull it off. We can easily find ourselves
overwhelmed with these difficult moments.<br />
But we need not face our burdens alone. God wants us to bring them to
Him: “Be anxious for nothing, but . . . let your requests be made known
to God; and the peace of God . . . will guard your hearts and minds
through Christ Jesus” (Phil. 4:6-7).<br />
We have a Savior who understands and offers His peace in the midst of our struggles.<br />
</div>
<div class="poem-box">
Stayed upon Jehovah,<br />Hearts are fully blest—<br />Finding, as He promised,<br />Perfect peace and rest. —Havergal</div>
<div class="thought-box">
The secret of peace is to give every anxious care to God.</div>
<div class="insight-wrapper">
<div class="insight-box">
<h4 class="insight-header">
Insight</h4>
Writing
while imprisoned, Paul reminds the believers in the church at Philippi
not to be anxious about anything. But these familiar verses should not
be detached from what follows. After telling the believers not to be
anxious (v.6), Paul encourages them to focus their minds on positive
virtues (v.8).</div>
</div>
Mel Alarillahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09466666269959062902noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3387539628732439374.post-5215769675291150482015-01-01T10:22:00.006-08:002015-01-01T10:24:12.311-08:00A Re-post From Lawrence Darmani of Our Daily Bread<br />
<nav class="nav-single">
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<a class="calendar-toggle" href="http://odb.org/#">January 2, 2015<span class="calendar-icon"></span></a>
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<header class="entry-header">
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<h1 class="entry-title">
Where Are You?</h1>
<div class="entry-meta">
<span class="entry-author">
By <a href="http://odb.org/authors/lawrencedarmani">Lawrence Darmani</a>
</span>
</div>
</header><br />
<div class="side-box">
<div class="meta-box">
Read: <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Genesis+3%3A1-10" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">Genesis 3:1-10</a></div>
<div class="meta-box">
The <span class="smcap">Lord</span> God . . . said to him, “Where are you?” —<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Genesis+3%3A9" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">Genesis 3:9</a></div>
<div class="meta-box">
Bible in a Year:<br />
<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Genesis+4-6%3B+Matthew+2" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">Genesis 4-6; Matthew 2</a></div>
</div>
<div class="post-content">
The two teenage boys heard the sound of their parents’ car and
panicked. How would they explain the mess in the house? Their father’s
instructions had been clear that morning before he and their mother
drove out of town: no parties, no rowdy friends. But the unruly friends
came and the boys allowed them to stay, despite their father’s warning.
Now the house was in a jumble and the boys were tipsy and disheveled. In
fear, they hid.<br />
That was how Adam and Eve must have felt after they had chosen to
disobey God and then heard the sound of Him approaching. In fear, they
hid themselves. “Where are you?” God called (Gen. 3:9). Adam responded,
“I heard Your voice in the garden, and I was afraid because I was naked;
and I hid myself” (v.10). Sin makes us feel afraid and naked, and we
become vulnerable to even more temptation.<br />
God is still calling to people: “Where are you?” Many run away,
trying to hide from Him or drown out the sound of His voice. Yet we
cannot hide from God; He knows exactly where we are. Rather than hide in
fear, we can respond in this way: “God, be merciful to me a sinner!”
(Luke 18:13).</div>
<div class="poem-box">
Would you be free from the burden of sin?<br />
There’s power in the blood, power in the blood;<br />
Would you over evil a victory win?<br />
There’s wonderful power in the blood. —Jones</div>
<div class="thought-box">
The only place to hide sin is under the blood of Christ.</div>
<div class="insight-wrapper">
<div class="insight-box">
<h4 class="insight-header">
Insight</h4>
God
did not force Adam and Eve to obey Him but allowed them to choose.
Similarly, He did not force them to come to Him after they sinned.
Instead, He called to them and allowed them to respond to His call.</div>
</div>
Mel Alarillahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09466666269959062902noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3387539628732439374.post-28681514163463910552014-12-29T10:42:00.004-08:002014-12-29T10:42:49.746-08:00A Re-post From David C. Egner of Our Daily Bread<h1 class="entry-title">
He Leads Me</h1>
<div class="entry-meta">
<span class="entry-author">
By <a href="http://odb.org/authors/davidcegner">David C. Egner</a>
</span>
</div>
<br /><div class="side-box">
<div class="meta-box">
Read: <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+23" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">Psalm 23</a></div>
<div class="meta-box">
He leads me beside the still waters. —<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+23%3A2" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">Psalm 23:2</a></div>
<div class="meta-box">
Bible in a Year:<br /><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Zechariah+13-14%3B+Revelation+21" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">Zechariah 13-14; Revelation 21</a></div>
</div>
<div class="post-content">
In Istanbul, Turkey, in 2005, one sheep jumped off a cliff and then
nearly 1,500 others followed! In the end, about one-third of them died.
Not knowing which way to go, sheep mindlessly follow other members of
the flock.<br />
No better word picture than sheep can be found to illustrate our need
for a trustworthy leader. We are all, Isaiah wrote, like sheep (Isa.
53:6). We tend to go our own way, yet we desperately need the sure
direction of a shepherd.<br />
Psalm 23 describes the trustworthiness of our Good Shepherd. He cares
for us (v.1); He provides for our physical needs (v.2); He shows us how
to live holy lives (v.3); He restores us, comforts us, heals us, and
bountifully blesses us (vv.3-5); and He will not abandon us (v.6).<br />
What a comfort to know that God gently but firmly leads us! He does
so through the urging of the Holy Spirit, the reading of His Word, and
through prayer. God is the reliable leader we need.<br />
In acknowledgment of our dependence on the Lord, we can say with the psalmist, “The <span class="smcap">Lord</span> is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters.”<br />
</div>
<div class="poem-box">
Like sheep that sometimes wander from the flock<br />In tangled paths of life to lose their way,<br />I need my Shepherd’s hand and watchful eye<br />To keep me always, lest I go astray. —Sanders</div>
<div class="thought-box">
The Lamb who died to save us is the Shepherd who lives to guide us.</div>
<div class="insight-wrapper">
<div class="insight-box">
<h4 class="insight-header">
Insight</h4>
Today’s
familiar and beloved psalm has brought comfort and hope to many. And
well it should. This psalm celebrates all that the Good Shepherd does
for His sheep. The greatest benefit comes in the last verse: We will
“dwell in the house of the <span class="smcap">Lord</span> forever”
(v.6). God does so much to provide for and care for His sheep. However,
there is an implicit idea in this text that should not be overlooked:
Sheep follow their shepherd. The blessings and comfort of this psalm do
not come to sheep that do not follow the Shepherd. As Jesus reminds us,
“My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me” (John
10:27).</div>
</div>
Mel Alarillahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09466666269959062902noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3387539628732439374.post-6065611218424314652014-12-28T09:21:00.005-08:002014-12-28T09:21:58.830-08:00A Re-post From Marion Stroud of Our Daily Bread<nav class="nav-single">
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<a class="calendar-toggle" href="http://odb.org/#">December 29, 2014<span class="calendar-icon"></span></a>
<a class="article-next" href="http://odb.org/2014/12/30/he-leads-me/" title="Next Day"> </a>
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<header class="entry-header">
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</span>
<h1 class="entry-title">
Delay May Not Mean Denial</h1>
<div class="entry-meta">
<span class="entry-author">
By <a href="http://odb.org/authors/mstroud">Marion Stroud</a>
</span>
</div>
</header><div class="side-box">
<br /><div class="meta-box">
Read: <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John+11%3A21-35" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">John 11:21-35</a></div>
<div class="meta-box">
When [Jesus] heard that [Lazarus] was sick, He stayed two more days in the place where He was. —<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John+11%3A6" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">John 11:6</a></div>
<div class="meta-box">
Bible in a Year:<br /><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Zechariah+9-12%3B+Revelation+20" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">Zechariah 9-12; Revelation 20</a></div>
</div>
<div class="post-content">
My sons’ birthdays are in December. When they were small, Angus
quickly learned that if he didn’t receive a longed-for toy for his
birthday at the beginning of the month, it might be in his Christmas
stocking. And if David didn’t receive his gift for Christmas, it might
appear for his birthday 4 days later. Delay didn’t necessarily mean
denial.<br />
It was natural for Martha and Mary to send for Jesus when Lazarus
became seriously ill (John 11:1-3). Perhaps they looked anxiously along
the road for signs of His arrival, but Jesus didn’t come. The funeral
service had been over for 4 days when Jesus finally walked into town
(v.17).<br />
Martha was blunt. “If You had been here,” she said, “my brother would
not have died” (v.21). Then her faith flickered into certainty, “Even
now I know that whatever You ask of God, God will give You” (v.22). I
wonder what she expected. Lazarus was dead, and she was wary about
opening the tomb. And yet at a word from Jesus, Lazarus’ spirit returned
to his decaying body (vv.41-44). Jesus had bypassed simply healing His
sick friend, in order to perform the far greater miracle of bringing him
back to life.<br />
Waiting for God’s timing may also give us a greater miracle than we had hoped for.<br />
</div>
<div class="poem-box">
My Savior hears me when I pray,<br />Upon His Word I calmly rest;<br />In His own time, in His own way,<br />I know He’ll give me what is best. —Hewitt</div>
<div class="thought-box">
Time spent waiting on God is never wasted.</div>
<div class="insight-wrapper">
<div class="insight-box">
<h4 class="insight-header">
Insight</h4>
Martha,
often maligned for her attitude in Luke 10:38-42, displays great faith
in today’s passage. Not only does she believe that Jesus has a special
relationship with the Father (John 11:22), she also affirms her
confidence that Jesus is, in fact, the Son of God (v.27).</div>
</div>
Mel Alarillahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09466666269959062902noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3387539628732439374.post-70700520621020766382014-12-26T12:20:00.003-08:002014-12-26T12:20:58.073-08:00A Re-post From Dave Branon of Our Daily Bread<h1 class="entry-title">
Out Of Egypt</h1>
<div class="entry-meta">
<span class="entry-author">
By <a href="http://odb.org/authors/davebranon">Dave Branon</a>
</span>
</div>
<div class="side-box">
<br /><div class="meta-box">
Read: <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+2%3A13-21" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">Matthew 2:13-21</a></div>
<div class="meta-box">
Take the young Child and His mother, flee to Egypt. —<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+2%3A13" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">Matthew 2:13</a></div>
<div class="meta-box">
Bible in a Year:<br /><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Zechariah+1-4%3B+Revelation+18" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">Zechariah 1-4; Revelation 18</a></div>
</div>
<div class="post-content">
One year when our family was traveling through Ohio on the way to
Grandma’s house, we arrived in Columbus just as a tornado warning was
issued. Suddenly everything changed as we feared that our children might
be in danger.<br />
I mention that story to help us imagine what it was like for Joseph’s
family as he, Mary, and their young child traveled to Egypt. Herod, not
a tornado, threatened them as he sought to kill their little boy.
Imagine how frightening it was for them, knowing that “Herod [sought]
the young Child to destroy Him” (Matt. 2:13).<br />
We usually take a more idyllic view of Christmastime—lowing cattle
and kneeling shepherds in a peaceful scene. But there was no peace for
Jesus’ family as they sought to escape Herod’s horror. Only when an
angel told them it was safe did the family go out of Egypt and back home
to Nazareth (vv.20-23).<br />
Consider the awe we should feel for the incarnation. Jesus, who
enjoyed the majesty of heaven in partnership with the Father, set it all
aside to be born in poverty, to face many dangers, and to be crucified
for us. Coming out of Egypt is one thing, but leaving heaven for
us—that’s the grand and amazing part of this story!<br />
</div>
<div class="poem-box">
Jesus our Savior left heaven above,<br />Coming to earth as a Servant with love;<br />Laying aside all His glory He came,<br />Bringing salvation through faith in His name. —Hess</div>
<div class="thought-box">
Jesus came to earth for us so we could go to heaven with Him.</div>
<div class="insight-wrapper">
<div class="insight-box">
<h4 class="insight-header">
Insight</h4>
Today’s
passage is both a harrowing and a comforting account of early events in
Jesus’ life. Verse 15 reminds us that the threat to His life and His
family’s hasty escape to Egypt were within God’s plan.</div>
</div>
Mel Alarillahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09466666269959062902noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3387539628732439374.post-12799782736833519662014-12-22T10:02:00.000-08:002014-12-22T10:02:23.296-08:00A Re-post From Joe Stowell of Our Daily Bread<nav class="nav-single">
<a class="article-prev" href="http://odb.org/2014/12/21/just-the-right-time/" title="Previous Day"> </a>
<a class="calendar-toggle" href="http://odb.org/#">December 22, 2014<span class="calendar-icon"></span></a>
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<header class="entry-header">
<span class="bookmark-wrapper">
</span>
<h1 class="entry-title">
Remember The Wrapping</h1>
<div class="entry-meta">
<span class="entry-author">
By <a href="http://odb.org/authors/joestowell">Joe Stowell</a>
</span>
</div>
</header><br /><div class="side-box">
<div class="meta-box">
Read: <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Philippians+2%3A5-11" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">Philippians 2:5-11</a></div>
<div class="meta-box">
[Jesus] made Himself of no reputation . . . coming in the likeness of men. —<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Philippians+2%3A7" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">Philippians 2:7</a></div>
<div class="meta-box">
Bible in a Year:<br /><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Micah+6-7%3B+Revelation+13" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">Micah 6-7; Revelation 13</a></div>
</div>
<div class="post-content">
At our house some Christmas events are the same each year. Among
them is my wife Martie’s appeal to the kids and grandkids as they attack
their gifts: “Save the paper, we can use it next year!” Martie loves to
give nice gifts, but she also appreciates the wrapping. Presentation is
part of the beauty of the gift.<br />
It makes me think of the wrapping Christ chose when He came as a
redemptive gift to rescue us from our sinful selves. Jesus could have
wrapped Himself in a mind-boggling show of power, lighting up the sky
with His presence in a celestial show of glory. Instead, in a beautiful
reversal of Genesis 1:26, He chose to wrap Himself “in the likeness of
men” (Phil. 2:7).<br />
So why is this wrapping so important? Because, being like us, He is
no stranger to our struggles. He experienced deep loneliness and the
betrayal of a dear friend. He was publicly shamed, misunderstood, and
falsely accused. In short, He feels our pain. As a result, the writer of
Hebrews tells us that we can “come boldly to the throne of grace, that
we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need” (Heb. 4:16).<br />
When you think of the gift of Jesus this Christmas, remember to keep the “wrapping” in mind!<br />
</div>
<div class="poem-box">
Lord, thank You for wrapping Yourself in our<br />likeness! Remind us that You understand our<br />struggles and that we can confidently take advantage<br />of the mercy and grace You offer to make us victorious.</div>
<div class="thought-box">
Don’t disregard the wrapping of the best Christmas gift of all.</div>
<div class="insight-wrapper">
<div class="insight-box">
<h4 class="insight-header">
Insight</h4>
Philippians
2:5-11 is perhaps the greatest declaration of Christ’s deity and
humanity in the Bible. In His incarnation, Jesus did not replace His
deity with humanity, but added humanity to His deity; He did not cease
to be God, but surrendered the independent use of His divine powers and
the right to manifest His own glory as God. Before He went to the cross,
Jesus prayed that the Father would restore to Him the glory He had with
the Father “before the world was” (John 17:5). Jesus’ prayer was
answered when the Father “highly exalted Him and [gave] Him the name
which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should
bow . . . to the glory of God the Father” (Phil. 2:9-11).</div>
</div>
Mel Alarillahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09466666269959062902noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3387539628732439374.post-87571440129642795712014-12-17T10:35:00.000-08:002014-12-17T10:35:06.811-08:00A Re-post From Poh Fang Chia of Our Daily Bread<nav class="nav-single">
<a class="article-prev" href="http://odb.org/2014/12/17/a-work-in-progress/" title="Previous Day"> </a>
<a class="calendar-toggle" href="http://odb.org/?tz=08#">December 18, 2014<span class="calendar-icon"></span></a>
<a class="article-next" href="http://odb.org/2014/12/19/the-heart-of-christmas/" title="Next Day"> </a>
</nav>
<header class="entry-header"><br /><h1 class="entry-title">
My Friends And I</h1>
<div class="entry-meta">
<span class="entry-author">
By <a href="http://odb.org/authors/pohfangchia">Poh Fang Chia</a>
</span>
</div>
</header><br /><div class="side-box">
<nav class="language-nav" role="navigation"><br /></nav>
<div class="meta-box">
Read: <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Samuel+18%3A1-4%3B+23%3A15-18" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">1 Samuel 18:1-4; 23:15-18</a></div>
<div class="meta-box">
Then Jonathan and David made a covenant, because he loved him as his own soul. —<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Samuel+18%3A3" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">1 Samuel 18:3</a></div>
<div class="meta-box">
Bible in a Year:<br /><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Obadiah%3B+Revelation+9" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">Obadiah; Revelation 9</a></div>
</div>
<div class="post-content">
John Chrysostom (347–407), archbishop of Constantinople, said this
about friendship: “Such is friendship, that through it we love places
and seasons; for as . . . flowers drop their sweet leaves on the ground
around them, so friends impart favor even to the places where they
dwell.”<br />
Jonathan and David illustrate the sweetness of a true friendship. The
Bible records an intimate and immediate bond between them (1 Sam.
18:1). They kept their friendship alive by demonstrating their loyalty
to each other (18:3; 20:16, 42; 23:18), as well as nurturing it by
expressions of concern. Jonathan gave gifts to David (18:4) and watched
out for him through many difficulties (19:1-2; 20:12-13).<br />
In 1 Samuel 23:16, we see the highest moment of their friendship.
When David was a fugitive on the run from Jonathan’s father, “Jonathan,
Saul’s son, arose and went to David in the woods and strengthened his
hand in God.” Friends help you find strength in God during the low
points of life.<br />
In a world where most relationships are about what we can get, let us
be the type of friends who focus on what we can give. Jesus, our
perfect Friend, demonstrated for us that “greater love has no one than
this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends” (John 15:13).<br />
</div>
<div class="poem-box">
Thank You, Lord, for the friends You’ve given me to<br />love me in spite of my failures and weaknesses. Let<br />me treat them as You treated Your friends. Bind us<br />together in You and enable us to help one another.</div>
<div class="thought-box">
The glory of life is to love, not to be loved; to give, not to get; to serve, not to be served.</div>
<div class="insight-wrapper">
<div class="insight-box">
<h4 class="insight-header">
Insight</h4>
The
deep friendship between David and Jonathan withstood the test of time
and circumstances, evidenced when Jonathan went against his father, King
Saul (1 Sam. 20), endangering his own life in order to save David
(v.33). Although Jonathan was the crown prince, he encouraged David by
assuring his safety and affirming that he would be the next king
(23:17). After Jonathan died in battle (31:1-6), David honored him with
the “Song of the Bow,” which was to be remembered by the people of Judah
(2 Sam. 1:18-27).</div>
</div>
Mel Alarillahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09466666269959062902noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3387539628732439374.post-39882142901880677422014-12-16T08:54:00.001-08:002014-12-16T08:54:50.593-08:00A Re-post From Bill Crowder of Our Daily Bread<nav class="nav-single">
<a class="article-prev" href="http://odb.org/2014/12/15/story-stewards/" title="Previous Day"> </a>
<a class="calendar-toggle" href="http://odb.org/?tz=08#">December 16, 2014<span class="calendar-icon"></span></a>
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<header class="entry-header">
<span class="bookmark-wrapper">
</span>
<h1 class="entry-title">
A Ukrainian Christmas</h1>
<div class="entry-meta">
<span class="entry-author">
By <a href="http://odb.org/authors/billcrowder">Bill Crowder</a>
</span>
</div>
</header>
<div class="listen-box listen-box-52095-odb">
<br /></div>
<div class="side-box">
<div class="meta-box">
Read: <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke+2%3A6-14" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">Luke 2:6-14</a></div>
<div class="meta-box">
Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men! —<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke+2%3A14" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">Luke 2:14</a></div>
<div class="meta-box">
Bible in a Year:<br /><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Amos+4-6%3B+Revelation+7" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">Amos 4-6; Revelation 7</a></div>
</div>
<div class="post-content">
The people of Ukraine include many wonderful elements in their
observance of Christmas. Sometimes wisps of hay are placed on the dinner
table as a reminder of the Bethlehem manger. Another portion of their
celebration echoes the events of the night when the Savior entered the
world. A Christmas prayer is offered and then the father in the
household offers the greeting, “Christ is born!” The family then
responds, “Let us glorify Him!”<br />
These words draw my mind to the appearance of the angels in the sky
over Bethlehem on the night Christ was born. The angel of the Lord
declared, “For there is born to you this day in the city of David a
Savior, who is Christ the Lord” (Luke 2:11). The heavenly host
responded, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill
toward men!” (v.14).<br />
Those twin messages give such depth of meaning to this wonderful time
of year. The Savior has come bringing forgiveness and hope—and He is
deserving of all the worship we can give Him.<br />
May all who know the wonder of His gift of eternal life join with the
voices of that angelic host declaring, “Glory to God in the highest!”<br />
</div>
<div class="poem-box">
With th’angelic hosts proclaim,<br />“Christ is born in Bethlehem!”<br />Hark! the herald angels sing,<br />“Glory to the newborn King!” —Wesley</div>
<div class="thought-box">
The spectacular glory of God’s love for us was revealed in the coming of Jesus.</div>
<div class="insight-wrapper">
<div class="insight-box">
<h4 class="insight-header">
Insight</h4>
Luke’s
telling of the birth of Christ includes the shepherds, who lived apart
from society in their lowly occupation, and the angels, who announced to
those shepherds the arrival of the Messiah (vv.9-14). From the humble
to the heavenly, the contrast of shepherds and angels pictures the
journey of the Son who came from the highest place to be the Lamb of
God.</div>
</div>
Mel Alarillahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09466666269959062902noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3387539628732439374.post-12059851875278305702014-12-15T10:24:00.003-08:002014-12-15T10:24:40.541-08:00A Re-post From Julie Ackerman Link of Our Daily Bread<nav class="nav-single">
<a class="article-prev" href="http://odb.org/2014/12/14/a-special-birth/" title="Previous Day"> </a>
<a class="calendar-toggle" href="http://odb.org/#">December 15, 2014<span class="calendar-icon"></span></a>
<a class="article-next" href="http://odb.org/2014/12/16/a-ukrainian-christmas/" title="Next Day"> </a>
</nav>
<header class="entry-header">
<span class="bookmark-wrapper">
</span>
<h1 class="entry-title">
Story Stewards</h1>
<div class="entry-meta">
<span class="entry-author">
By <a href="http://odb.org/authors/julieackermanlink">Julie Ackerman Link</a>
</span>
</div>
</header>
<div class="side-box">
<nav class="language-nav" role="navigation"><br /></nav>
<div class="meta-box">
Read: <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Deuteronomy+4%3A1-9" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">Deuteronomy 4:1-9</a></div>
<div class="meta-box">
Take heed . . . lest you forget the things your eyes have seen . . . . And teach them to your children and your grandchildren. —<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Deuteronomy+4%3A9" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">Deuteronomy 4:9</a></div>
<div class="meta-box">
Bible in a Year:<br /><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Amos+1-3%3B+Revelation+6" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">Amos 1-3; Revelation 6</a></div>
</div>
<div class="post-content">
Many people take great care to make sure their resources are used
well after they die. They set up trusts, write wills, and establish
foundations to guarantee that their assets will continue to be used for a
good purpose after their life on earth is done. We call this good
stewardship.<br />
Equally important, however, is being good stewards of our life story.
God commanded the Israelites not only to teach their children His laws
but also to make sure they knew their family history. It was the
responsibility of parents and grandparents to make sure their children
knew the stories of how God had worked in their behalf (Deut. 4:1-14).<br />
God has given each of us a unique story. His plan for our lives is
individualized. Do others know what you believe and why? Do they know
the story of how you came to faith and how God has worked in your life
to strengthen your faith? Do they know how God has shown Himself
faithful and has helped you through doubts and disappointments?<br />
The faithfulness of God is a story that we have the privilege to pass
on. Record it in some way and share it. Be a good steward of the story
that God is telling through you.<br />
</div>
<div class="poem-box">
How great, O God, Your acts of love!<br />Your saving deeds would now proclaim<br />That generations yet to come<br />May set their hope in Your great name. —D. DeHaan</div>
<div class="thought-box">
A life lived for God leaves a lasting legacy.</div>
<div class="insight-wrapper">
<div class="insight-box">
<h4 class="insight-header">
Insight</h4>
In
today’s passage, Moses reminded the people of Israel that—unlike the
nations around them—they were the only ones privileged to have intimate
fellowship with God (v.7) and the only nation given God’s law (v.8). If
they faithfully obeyed His law, God would make them a great and wise
people (vv.6,8-9).</div>
</div>
Mel Alarillahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09466666269959062902noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3387539628732439374.post-60583592261577748912014-12-08T11:24:00.002-08:002014-12-08T11:24:49.645-08:00A Re-post From Dennis Fisher of Our Daily Bread<nav class="nav-single">
<a class="article-prev" href="http://odb.org/2014/12/08/stones-cry-out/" title="Previous Day"> </a>
<a class="calendar-toggle" href="http://odb.org/?tz=08#">December 9, 2014<span class="calendar-icon"></span></a>
<a class="article-next" href="http://odb.org/2014/12/10/wonders-of-the-heart/" title="Next Day"> </a>
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<header class="entry-header">
<span class="bookmark-wrapper">
</span>
<h1 class="entry-title">
Our Life Is A Primer</h1>
<div class="entry-meta">
<span class="entry-author">
By <a href="http://odb.org/authors/dennisfisher">Dennis Fisher</a>
</span>
</div>
</header>
<div class="listen-box listen-box-52088-odb">
<br /></div>
<div class="side-box">
<div class="meta-box">
Read: <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Deuteronomy+6%3A4-9" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">Deuteronomy 6:4-9</a></div>
<div class="meta-box">
You shall teach them diligently to your children . . . when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up. —<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Deuteronomy+6%3A7" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">Deuteronomy 6:7</a></div>
<div class="meta-box">
Bible in a Year:<br /><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Daniel+11-12%3B+Jude" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">Daniel 11-12; Jude</a></div>
</div>
<div class="post-content">
The New England Primer was published in the late 1600s. Throughout
the colonies that would later become the United States, the book became a
widely used resource.<br />
This early American textbook was based largely on the Bible, and it
used pictures and rhymes based on Scripture to help children learn to
read. It also included prayers like this one: “Now I lay me down to
sleep, I pray the Lord, my soul to keep. If I should die before I wake, I
pray the Lord my soul to take.”<br />
In Colonial America, this became a way that one generation was able
to pass along their faith to the next generation. It fit well with what
God wanted of His people, the ancient Israelites, as recorded in
Deuteronomy 6:6-7, “These words which I command you today shall be in
your heart. You shall teach [God’s commandments] diligently to your
children, and shall talk of them . . . when you walk by the way, when
you lie down, and when you rise up.”<br />
As we talk about who God is, what He has done for us, and how He
desires our love and obedience, our lives can become primers to the next
generation. We can be teaching tools that God will use to help people
in their walk with Him.<br />
</div>
<div class="poem-box">
Lord, we love You. We want to learn to love<br />You with all our heart, soul, and strength.<br />Use our lives and our words to point others to You,<br />who first loved us.</div>
<div class="thought-box">
When we teach others, we’re not just spending time, we’re investing it.</div>
<div class="insight-wrapper">
<div class="insight-box">
<h4 class="insight-header">
Insight</h4>
Deuteronomy 6:4-9, known as the <em>Shema</em> (from the Hebrew for “hear,” v.4), is the basic Jewish confession of faith. Every devout Jew was to recite the <em>Shema</em>
twice daily as a reminder of the first and second commandments (Ex.
20:2-5). After giving the Ten Commandments (Deut. 5:6-22), Moses gave
God’s people the one heart principle that undergirds the entire law:
“Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and
with all your strength” (6:5). God demands exclusive, wholehearted, and
undivided allegiance and devotion. Jesus said that this is “the first
and greatest commandment” (Matt. 22:36-38).</div>
</div>
Mel Alarillahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09466666269959062902noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3387539628732439374.post-86045374630043486122014-11-30T12:18:00.003-08:002014-11-30T12:18:53.801-08:00A Re-post From Anne Cetas of Our Daily Bread<nav class="nav-single">
<a class="article-prev" href="http://odb.org/2014/11/30/for-sale-as-is/" title="Previous Day"> </a>
<a class="calendar-toggle" href="http://odb.org/?tz=08#">December 1, 2014<span class="calendar-icon"></span></a>
<a class="article-next" href="http://odb.org/2014/12/02/losing-our-way/" title="Next Day"> </a>
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<header class="entry-header">
<span class="bookmark-wrapper">
</span>
<h1 class="entry-title">
Struggling With Addiction</h1>
<div class="entry-meta">
<span class="entry-author">
By <a href="http://odb.org/authors/annecetas">Anne Cetas</a>
</span>
</div>
</header><div class="side-box">
<br /><div class="meta-box">
Read: <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Hebrews+4%3A14-16" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">Hebrews 4:14-16</a></div>
<div class="meta-box">
God is faithful. —<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Corinthians+10%3A13" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">1 Corinthians 10:13</a></div>
<div class="meta-box">
Bible in a Year:<br /><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ezekiel+40-41%3B+2+Peter+3" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">Ezekiel 40-41; 2 Peter 3</a></div>
</div>
<div class="post-content">
Eric was struggling with an addiction, and he knew it. His friends
and family members encouraged him to stop. He agreed that it would be
best for his health and relationships, but he felt helpless. When others
told him how they had quit their bad habits, he replied, “I’m happy for
you, but I can’t seem to stop! I wish I had never been tempted in the
first place. I want God to take the desire away right now.”<br />
Immediate deliverance may happen for some, but most face a daily
battle. While we don’t always understand why the temptation doesn’t go
away, we can turn to God on whatever path we find ourselves. And perhaps
that is the most important part of our struggle. We learn to exchange
our futile efforts to change for complete dependence on God.<br />
Jesus was tempted also, just as we are, so He understands what we’re
feeling (Mark 1:13). He sympathizes with our struggles (Heb. 4:15), and
we can “come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and
find grace to help in time of need” (v.16). He also uses others,
including trained professionals, to lean on along the way.<br />
Whatever battles we may be facing today, we know this—God loves us
much more than we can imagine, and He is faithful to come to our
assistance.<br />
</div>
<div class="poem-box">
For Further Thought<br />Read Matthew 4:1-11 about how Jesus handled<br />temptations. Also read 1 Corinthians 10:11-13<br />to learn how He can help us when we are tempted.</div>
<div class="thought-box">
We are not tempted because we are evil; we are tempted because we are human.</div>
<div class="insight-wrapper">
<div class="insight-box">
<h4 class="insight-header">
Insight</h4>
The
high priest in ancient Israel was the representative of the people
before God. The writer of Hebrews draws a distinction between the high
priests of Israel and Jesus, our Great High Priest, who came and
experienced life on the earth. We can approach Him with confidence,
knowing that He truly understands what we face, for He faced it as well.</div>
</div>
Mel Alarillahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09466666269959062902noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3387539628732439374.post-82598443206489942622014-11-28T11:15:00.000-08:002014-11-28T11:15:09.500-08:00A Re-post From Philip Yancey of Our Daily Bread<nav class="nav-single">
<a class="article-prev" href="http://odb.org/2014/11/28/amani/" title="Previous Day"> </a>
<a class="calendar-toggle" href="http://odb.org/?tz=08#">November 29, 2014<span class="calendar-icon"></span></a>
<a class="article-next" href="http://odb.org/2014/11/30/for-sale-as-is/" title="Next Day"> </a>
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<header class="entry-header">
<span class="bookmark-wrapper">
</span>
<h1 class="entry-title">
Happy Ending</h1>
<div class="entry-meta">
<span class="entry-author">
By <a href="http://odb.org/authors/philipyancey">Philip Yancey</a>
</span>
</div>
</header><div class="side-box">
<br /><div class="meta-box">
Read: <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation+21%3A1-7" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">Revelation 21:1-7</a></div>
<div class="meta-box">
I saw a new heaven and a new earth. —<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation+21%3A1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">Revelation 21:1</a></div>
<div class="meta-box">
Bible in a Year:<br /><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ezekiel+35-36%3B+2+Peter+1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">Ezekiel 35-36; 2 Peter 1</a></div>
</div>
<div class="post-content">
In its “plot,” the story of the Bible ends up very much where it
began. The broken relationship between God and human beings has healed
over at last, and the curse of Genesis 3 is lifted. Borrowing images
from Eden, Revelation pictures a river and a tree of life (Rev. 22:1-2).
But this time a great city replaces the garden setting—a city filled
with worshipers of God. No death or sadness will ever darken that scene.
When we awake in the new heaven and new earth, we will have at last a
happy ending.<br />
Heaven is not an afterthought or an optional belief. It is the final
justification of all creation. The Bible never belittles human tragedy
and disappointment—is any book more painfully honest?—but it does add
one key word: <em>temporary</em>. What we feel now, we will not always feel. The time for re-creation will come.<br />
For people who feel trapped in pain or in a broken home, in economic
misery or in fear—for all of us—heaven promises a timeless future of
health and wholeness and pleasure and peace. The Bible begins with the
promise of a Redeemer in the book of Genesis (3:15) and ends with that
same promise (Rev. 21:1-7)—a guarantee of future reality. The end will
be the beginning.<br />
</div>
<div class="poem-box">
Beyond earth’s sorrows, the joys of heaven;<br />Eternal blessings with Christ my Lord;<br />Earth’s weeping ended, earth’s trials over,<br />Sweet rest in Jesus, O blest reward! —Gilmore</div>
<div class="thought-box">
The gains of heaven will more than compensate us for the losses of earth.</div>
<div class="insight-wrapper">
<div class="insight-box">
<h4 class="insight-header">
Insight</h4>
The
reality of a new heaven and a new earth (Rev. 21:1) is not a New
Testament idea that begins with or is exclusive to the apostle John.
Peter also spoke of this new heaven and earth as a world filled with
God’s righteousness (2 Peter 3:13). And the Old Testament prophet Isaiah
described the “new heavens and a new earth” (Isa. 65:17-25; 66:22) 700
years before the birth of Christ.</div>
</div>
Mel Alarillahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09466666269959062902noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3387539628732439374.post-73355108337374953012014-11-26T10:56:00.001-08:002014-11-26T10:56:37.247-08:00A Re-post From Julie Ackerman Link of Our Daily Bread<nav class="nav-single">
<a class="article-prev" href="http://odb.org/2014/11/26/god-whispers-fish/" title="Previous Day"> </a>
<a class="calendar-toggle" href="http://odb.org/?tz=08#">November 27, 2014<span class="calendar-icon"></span></a>
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<header class="entry-header">
<span class="bookmark-wrapper">
</span>
<h1 class="entry-title">
A Lesson In Praise</h1>
<div class="entry-meta">
<span class="entry-author">
By <a href="http://odb.org/authors/julieackermanlink">Julie Ackerman Link</a>
</span>
</div>
</header><br /><div class="side-box">
<div class="meta-box">
Read: <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+150" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">Psalm 150</a></div>
<div class="meta-box">
Praise the <span class="smcap">Lord</span>! —<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+150%3A1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">Psalm 150:1</a></div>
<div class="meta-box">
Bible in a Year:<br /><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ezekiel+30-32%3B+1+Peter+4" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">Ezekiel 30-32; 1 Peter 4</a></div>
</div>
<div class="post-content">
Psalm 150 is not only a beautiful expression of praise, it’s also a
lesson in praising the Lord. It tells us where to praise, why we’re to
praise, how we’re to praise, and who should offer praise.<br />
<em>Where do we praise?</em> In God’s “sanctuary” and “mighty
firmament” (v.1). Wherever we are in the world is a proper place to
praise the One who created all things.<br />
<em>Why do we praise?</em> First, because of what God does. He
performs “mighty acts.” Second, because of who God is. The psalmist
praised Him for “His excellent greatness” (v.2). The all-powerful
Creator is the Sustainer of the universe.<br />
<em>How should we praise?</em> Loudly. Softly. Soothingly.
Enthusiastically. Rhythmically. Boldly. Unexpectedly. Fearlessly. In
other words, we can praise God in many ways and on many occasions
(vv.3-5).<br />
<em>Who should praise?</em> “Everything that has breath” (v.6). Young
and old. Rich and poor. Weak and strong. Every living creature. God’s
will is for everyone to whom He gave the breath of life to use that
breath to acknowledge His power and greatness.<br />
Praise is our enthusiastic expression of gratitude to God for reigning in glory forever.<br />
</div>
<div class="poem-box">
Let every creature rise and bring<br />Peculiar honors to our King;<br />Angels descend with songs again,<br />And earth repeat the loud amen! —Watts</div>
<div class="thought-box">
Praise is the overflow of a joyful heart.</div>
<div class="insight-wrapper">
<div class="insight-box">
<h4 class="insight-header">
Insight</h4>
The focus of this psalm is obvious. The word <em>praise</em>
is used 13 times in these 6 short verses. Praise is defined as
“expressing approval of or admiration for someone or something.” But
this definition seems dry and stiff. In today’s psalm, praise is an
occasion for celebration—involving music and dance. Praise of the Lord
is a joyous occasion, a celebration of who He is and what He has done.
The psalmist simply assumes that joy, excitement, and happiness are all
part of our praise to God.</div>
</div>
Mel Alarillahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09466666269959062902noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3387539628732439374.post-28726445772006157002014-11-19T11:21:00.001-08:002014-11-19T11:21:21.872-08:00A Re-post From Dave Branon of Our Daily Bread<nav class="nav-single">
<a class="article-prev" href="http://odb.org/2014/11/19/goodbye/" title="Previous Day"> </a>
<a class="calendar-toggle" href="http://odb.org/?tz=08#">November 20, 2014<span class="calendar-icon"></span></a>
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<header class="entry-header">
<span class="bookmark-wrapper">
</span>
<h1 class="entry-title">
Can You Help?</h1>
<div class="entry-meta">
<span class="entry-author">
By <a href="http://odb.org/authors/davebranon">Dave Branon</a>
</span>
</div>
</header><div class="side-box">
<br /><div class="meta-box">
Read: <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=James+2%3A14-20" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">James 2:14-20</a></div>
<div class="meta-box">
Faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead. —<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=James+2%3A17" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">James 2:17</a></div>
<div class="meta-box">
Bible in a Year:<br /><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ezekiel+14-15%3B+James+2" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">Ezekiel 14-15; James 2</a></div>
</div>
<div class="post-content">
The administrators of the high school in Barrow, Alaska, were tired
of seeing students get into trouble and drop out at a rate of 50
percent. To keep students interested, they started a football team,
which offered them a chance to develop personal skills, teamwork, and
learn life lessons. The problem with football in Barrow, which is
farther north than Iceland, is that it’s hard to plant a grass field. So
they competed on a gravel and dirt field.<br />
Four thousand miles away in Florida, a woman named Cathy Parker heard
about the football team and their dangerous field. Feeling that God was
prompting her to help, and impressed by the positive changes she saw in
the students, she went to work. About a year later, they dedicated
their new field, complete with a beautiful artificial-turf playing
surface. She had raised thousands of dollars to help some kids she
didn’t even know.<br />
This is not about football—or money. It is about remembering “to do
good and to share” (Heb. 13:16). The apostle James reminds us that we
demonstrate our faith by our actions (2:18). The needs in our world are
varied and overwhelming but when we love our neighbor as ourselves, as
Jesus said (Mark 12:31), we reach people with God’s love.<br />
</div>
<div class="poem-box">
Open our eyes, dear Father, to those in need. Allow<br />us to find ways—monetarily and otherwise—to<br />help meet those needs. Help us to take the focus off<br />ourselves and place it on those who can use our assistance.</div>
<div class="thought-box">
Open your heart to God to learn compassion and open your hand to give help.</div>
<div class="insight-wrapper">
<div class="insight-box">
<h4 class="insight-header">
Insight</h4>
There
is disagreement among scholars as to the identity of the James who
authored this letter. Some see him as the son of Alphaeus (Matt. 10:3;
Mark 3:18). Long-held church tradition, however, identifies this James
as the half-brother of Jesus (Matt. 13:55; Mark 6:3). In Galatians 1:19,
Paul mentions seeing James, “the Lord’s brother,” in Jerusalem—and this
has fueled the position that the James of the Jerusalem church and the
James who wrote this letter was in fact “the Lord’s brother.” James
became a person of great prominence in the early church, having received
a personal audience with the risen Christ (1 Cor. 15:7) and having
become one of the primary leaders of the church at Jerusalem (Acts
15:13-20).</div>
</div>
Mel Alarillahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09466666269959062902noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3387539628732439374.post-80684788636938379992014-11-13T10:18:00.003-08:002014-11-13T10:18:58.933-08:00A Re-post From David C. McCasland of Our Daily Bread <nav class="nav-single">
<a class="article-prev" href="http://odb.org/2014/11/13/creeping-christmas/" title="Previous Day"> </a>
<a class="calendar-toggle" href="http://odb.org/?tz=08#">November 14, 2014<span class="calendar-icon"></span></a>
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<header class="entry-header">
<span class="bookmark-wrapper">
</span>
<h1 class="entry-title">
Heartbreak And Hope</h1>
<div class="entry-meta">
<span class="entry-author">
By <a href="http://odb.org/authors/davidcmccasland">David C. McCasland</a>
</span>
</div>
</header><div class="side-box">
<br /><div class="meta-box">
Read: <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Lamentations+3%3A1-6%2C+16-25" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">Lamentations 3:1-6, 16-25</a></div>
<div class="meta-box">
The <span class="smcap">Lord</span> is good to those who wait for Him. —<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Lamentations+3%3A25" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">Lamentations 3:25</a></div>
<div class="meta-box">
Bible in a Year:<br /><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Lamentations+3-5%3B+Hebrews+10%3A19-39" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">Lamentations 3-5; Hebrews 10:19-39</a></div>
</div>
<div class="post-content">
When American country singer George Jones died at the age of 81,
his fans remembered his remarkable voice and his hard life and personal
struggles. While many of his songs reflected his own despair and
longing, it was the way he sang them that touched people deeply. <em>Chicago Tribune</em> music critic Greg Kot said, “His voice was made for conveying heartbreak.”<br />
The book of Lamentations records Jeremiah’s anguish over the nation
of Judah’s stubborn refusal to follow God. Often called “the weeping
prophet,” he witnessed the destruction of Jerusalem and saw his people
carried into captivity. He wandered the streets of the city, overwhelmed
by grief (Lam. 1:1-5).<br />
Yet, in Jeremiah’s darkest hour, he said, “This I recall to my mind, therefore I have hope. Through the <span class="smcap">Lord</span>’s
mercies we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not. They are
new every morning; great is Your faithfulness” (3:21-23).<br />
Whether we suffer for our own choices or from those of others,
despair may threaten to overwhelm us. When all seems lost, we can cling
to the Lord’s faithfulness. “‘The Lord is my portion,’ says my soul.
‘Therefore I hope in Him!’” (v.24).<br />
</div>
<div class="poem-box">
I’m thankful for Your faithfulness, Father, even<br />in the times when I am unfaithful. Help me to<br />remember, like Jeremiah, that my hope comes<br />from You, not from my circumstances.</div>
<div class="thought-box">
The anchor of God’s faithfulness holds firm in the strongest storms.</div>
<div class="insight-wrapper">
<div class="insight-box">
<h4 class="insight-header">
Insight</h4>
The <em>International Standard Bible Encyclopedia</em>
says: “Jeremiah was called by the Lord to the office of a prophet while
still a youth (1:6) about 20 years of age. . . . At first he probably
lived in Anathoth, and put in his appearance publicly in Jerusalem only
on the occasion of the great festivals; later he lived in Jerusalem, and
was there during the terrible times of the siege and the destruction of
the city.”</div>
</div>
Mel Alarillahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09466666269959062902noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3387539628732439374.post-57082043481571683802014-11-12T10:38:00.004-08:002014-11-12T10:38:47.321-08:00A Re-post From Julie Ackerman Link of Our Daily Bread<nav class="nav-single">
<a class="article-prev" href="http://odb.org/2014/11/11/the-drinking-gourd/" title="Previous Day"> </a>
<a class="calendar-toggle" href="http://odb.org/#">November 12, 2014<span class="calendar-icon"></span></a>
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<header class="entry-header">
<span class="bookmark-wrapper">
</span>
<h1 class="entry-title">
The Final Picture</h1>
<div class="entry-meta">
<span class="entry-author">
By <a href="http://odb.org/authors/julieackermanlink">Julie Ackerman Link</a>
</span>
</div>
</header><br /><div class="side-box">
<div class="meta-box">
Read: <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah+40%3A21-31" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">Isaiah 40:21-31</a></div>
<div class="meta-box">
Lift up your eyes on high, and see who has created these things. —<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah+40%3A26" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">Isaiah 40:26</a></div>
<div class="meta-box">
Bible in a Year:<br /><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Jeremiah+51-52%3B+Hebrews+9" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">Jeremiah 51-52; Hebrews 9</a></div>
</div>
<div class="post-content">
What started as an empty 11-acre field in Belfast, Northern
Ireland, ended up as the largest land portrait in the British Isles. <em>Wish</em>,
by artist Jorge Rodriguez-Gerada, is made from 30,000 wooden pegs,
2,000 tons of soil, 2,000 tons of sand, and miscellaneous items such as
grass, stones, and string.<br />
At the beginning, only the artist knew what the final artwork was
going to look like. He hired workers and recruited volunteers to haul
materials and move them into place. As they worked, they saw little
indication that something amazing was about to emerge. But it did. From
the ground, it doesn’t look like much. But from above, viewers see a
huge portrait—the smiling face of a little girl.<br />
God is doing something on a grander scale in the world. He’s the
artist who sees the final picture. We’re His “fellow workers” (1 Cor.
3:9) who are helping to make it a reality. Through the prophet Isaiah,
God reminded His people that it is He who “sits above the circle of the
earth” and “stretches out the heavens like a curtain” (Isa. 40:22). We
can’t see the final picture, but we continue on in faith, knowing that
we’re part of an amazing work of art—one that is being created on earth
but will be best seen from heaven.<br />
</div>
<div class="poem-box">
While sometimes I think I can see the big picture,<br />Lord, my heart knows it sees so little. I’m<br />thankful that You are working out Your beautiful<br />will in this world, and I can trust You.</div>
<div class="thought-box">
God is using us to help create a masterpiece.</div>
Mel Alarillahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09466666269959062902noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3387539628732439374.post-76732985390217600992014-11-10T10:05:00.005-08:002014-11-10T10:05:59.766-08:00A Re-post From Joe Stowell of Our Daily Bread<nav class="nav-single">
<a class="article-prev" href="http://odb.org/2014/11/09/tear-down-the-wall/" title="Previous Day"> </a>
<a class="calendar-toggle" href="http://odb.org/#">November 10, 2014<span class="calendar-icon"></span></a>
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<header class="entry-header">
<span class="bookmark-wrapper">
</span>
<h1 class="entry-title">
The Honor Of Following</h1>
<div class="entry-meta">
<span class="entry-author">
By <a href="http://odb.org/authors/joestowell">Joe Stowell</a>
</span>
</div>
</header><div class="side-box">
<br /><div class="meta-box">
Read: <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+4%3A18-22" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">Matthew 4:18-22</a></div>
<div class="meta-box">
Then [Jesus] said to them, “Follow Me.” —<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+4%3A19" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">Matthew 4:19</a></div>
<div class="meta-box">
Bible in a Year:<br /><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Jeremiah+48-49%3B+Hebrews+7" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">Jeremiah 48-49; Hebrews 7</a></div>
</div>
<div class="post-content">
While visiting Jerusalem, a friend of mine saw an old rabbi walking
past the Wailing Wall. The interesting thing about the aged rabbi was
the five young men walking behind him. They too were walking bent over,
limping—just like their rabbi. An Orthodox Jew watching them would know
exactly why they were imitating their teacher. They were “followers.”<br />
Throughout the history of Judaism, one of the most honored positions
for a Jewish man was the privilege of becoming a “follower” of the local
rabbi. Followers sat at the rabbi’s feet as he taught. They would study
his words and watch how he acted and reacted to life and others. A
follower would count it the highest honor to serve his rabbi in even the
most menial tasks. And, because they admired their rabbi, they were
determined to become like him.<br />
When Jesus called His disciples to follow Him (Matt. 4:19), it was an
invitation to be changed by Him, to become like Him, and to share His
passion for those who need a Savior. The high honor of being His
follower should show in our lives as well. We too have been called to
catch the attention of the watching world as we talk, think, and act
just like Jesus—the rabbi, the teacher, of our souls.<br />
</div>
<div class="poem-box">
Thank You, Lord, for the high honor of being<br />called to follow You. May my life so imitate<br />You that others will know that You are the<br />pursuit of my life and the rabbi of my soul.</div>
<div class="thought-box">
Follow Jesus and let the world know He is your rabbi.</div>
<div class="insight-wrapper">
<div class="insight-box">
<h4 class="insight-header">
Insight</h4>
In
the region surrounding the Sea of Galilee in the first century, fishing
was one of the primary industries. This fishing normally took place at
night, with the laborious task of casting weighted fishing nets and then
hauling them back in. Fishing was not an easy occupation, but it did
provide a decent living and, as seen in today’s text, was often operated
as a family business. Here, two brothers, Peter and Andrew, worked
together (v.18), as did James, John, and their father (v.21). In this
case, however, these two families also had a partnership in their
fishing business, as recorded in Luke 5:10. Jesus used this partnership
to His advantage in calling these four men as disciples.</div>
</div>
Mel Alarillahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09466666269959062902noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3387539628732439374.post-83366702075847968062014-11-07T11:45:00.004-08:002014-11-07T11:45:46.917-08:00A Re-post From Anne Cetas of Our Daily Bread<nav class="nav-single">
<a class="article-prev" href="http://odb.org/2014/11/06/horse-power/" title="Previous Day"> </a>
<a class="calendar-toggle" href="http://odb.org/#">November 7, 2014<span class="calendar-icon"></span></a>
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<header class="entry-header">
<span class="bookmark-wrapper">
</span>
<h1 class="entry-title">
Multiply It</h1>
<div class="entry-meta">
<span class="entry-author">
By <a href="http://odb.org/authors/annecetas">Anne Cetas</a>
</span>
</div>
</header><br /><div class="side-box">
<div class="meta-box">
Read: <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation+22%3A1-5" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">Revelation 22:1-5</a></div>
<div class="meta-box">
There shall be no more curse. —<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation+22%3A3" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">Revelation 22:3</a></div>
<div class="meta-box">
Bible in a Year:<br /><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Jeremiah+40-42%3B+Hebrews+4" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">Jeremiah 40-42; Hebrews 4</a></div>
</div>
<div class="post-content">
Amy had battled cancer for 5 years. Then the doctor told her that
the treatments were failing and she had just a few weeks to live.
Wanting some understanding and assurance about eternity, Amy asked her
pastor, “What will heaven be like?”<br />
He asked her what she liked most about her life on earth. She talked
about walks and rainbows and caring friends and the laughter of
children. “So, then, are you saying I will have all of that there?” she
asked longingly.<br />
Amy’s pastor replied, “I believe that your life there will be far
more beautiful and amazing than anything you ever loved or experienced
here. Think about what’s best here for you and multiply it over and over
and over. That’s what I think heaven will be.”<br />
The Bible doesn’t describe in detail what life in eternity will be
like, but it does tell us that being with Christ in heaven is “far
better” than our present circumstance (Phil. 1:23). “There shall be no
more curse, but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it, and
His servants shall serve Him” (Rev. 22:3).<br />
Best of all, we will see the Lord Jesus face to face. Our deepest yearnings will be fully satisfied in Him.<br />
</div>
<div class="poem-box">
We’re thankful, Lord, for Your presence now<br />in our lives. But what an amazing day it will be<br />when we meet You face to face!<br />Life with You in heaven will be greater by far.</div>
<div class="thought-box">
To be with Jesus forever is the sum of all happiness.</div>
<div class="insight-wrapper">
<div class="insight-box">
<h4 class="insight-header">
Insight</h4>
In
some translations of the Bible, the book of Revelation is entitled “The
Revelation of St. John,” giving attention to the human author John, one
of the disciples of Jesus. This title, however, is inaccurate. In
Revelation 1:1, we read, “The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave
Him to show His servants—things which must shortly take place. And He
sent and signified it by His angel to His servant John.” This is
significant because the word <em>revelation</em> means “a revealing or
unveiling.” The primary purpose of the book is to give us an unveiling
of Christ Himself. Interestingly, that unveiling reveals Jesus to be the
Lamb of God, and the word <em>lamb</em> appears in Revelation more than 25 times.</div>
</div>
Mel Alarillahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09466666269959062902noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3387539628732439374.post-18505289466800645282014-11-05T11:30:00.000-08:002014-11-05T11:30:03.088-08:00A Re-post From Dave Branon of Our Daily Bread<nav class="nav-single">
<a class="article-prev" href="http://odb.org/2014/11/05/less-than-the-least/" title="Previous Day"> </a>
<a class="calendar-toggle" href="http://odb.org/?tz=08#">November 6, 2014<span class="calendar-icon"></span></a>
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<header class="entry-header">
<span class="bookmark-wrapper">
</span>
<h1 class="entry-title">
Horse Power</h1>
<div class="entry-meta">
<span class="entry-author">
By <a href="http://odb.org/authors/davebranon">Dave Branon</a>
</span>
</div>
</header>
<div class="listen-box listen-box-51965-odb">
<br /></div>
<div class="side-box">
<div class="meta-box">
Read: <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Job+39%3A19-25" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">Job 39:19-25</a></div>
<div class="meta-box">
I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. —<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+139%3A14" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">Psalm 139:14</a></div>
<div class="meta-box">
Bible in a Year:<br /><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Jeremiah+37-39%3B+Hebrews+3" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">Jeremiah 37-39; Hebrews 3</a></div>
</div>
<div class="post-content">
Think for a moment of the power, beauty, and majesty of a galloping
horse—his head held high, his mane flying in the wind, and his legs
working in unison to provide speed, power, and abandon.<br />
What a wonderful example of God’s magnificent creation is the horse!
God created it not just for our amazement and enjoyment but also as a
complement to the human race (Job 39). Properly trained, the horse is
fearless when we need a courageous companion. The horse was used to
carry the soldier faithfully into conflict with speed (v.24) and
anticipation (v.25).<br />
Although God was using creation to teach Job about His sovereignty,
we can also be reminded through this passage about our own value in
God’s world. We are created not simply as a beautiful creature with a
job to do but also as a creature made in God’s image. The power of the
horse is amazing, but the value of each human transcends all other
creatures.<br />
God created us uniquely to have a relationship with Him and to live
with Him forever. While we praise God for the magnificence of the
creatures of nature, we also stand in awe that we are “fearfully and
wonderfully made” (Ps. 139:14).<br />
</div>
<div class="poem-box">
Thank You, our Almighty God and Father, for Your<br />creation. You have provided so many majestic<br />creatures for us to enjoy, but help us to recognize<br />with thankfulness the special place we have in creation.</div>
<div class="thought-box">
Of all God’s creation, only humans can experience re-creation.</div>
<div class="insight-wrapper">
<div class="insight-box">
<h4 class="insight-header">
Insight</h4>
In
the midst of his pain (Job 1–3), Job seeks to understand why he has to
suffer so much. Instead of explaining why He allowed evil to exist or
human beings to suffer (chs. 4–37), God confronted and confounded Job
with more questions concerning His creation. Job 38–42 is not an
explanation of why man has to suffer, but a revelation of who God is!
God reveals Himself as Creator (ch. 38), Sustainer (ch. 39), and
Controller of all creation (chs. 40–42). Job didn’t need to fully
understand cosmology, meteorology, zoology, hippology, or God’s
immutable ways (Isa. 55:8-9). He only needed to trust the omnipotent and
transcendent Creator God who is “very compassionate and merciful”
(James 5:11; see Job 42:2-3).</div>
</div>
Mel Alarillahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09466666269959062902noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3387539628732439374.post-21585609664546631522014-11-03T09:44:00.000-08:002014-11-03T09:44:17.051-08:00A Re-post From Bill Crowder of Our Daily Bread<nav class="nav-single">
<a class="article-prev" href="http://odb.org/2014/11/03/does-god-care-2/" title="Previous Day"> </a>
<a class="calendar-toggle" href="http://odb.org/?tz=08#">November 4, 2014<span class="calendar-icon"></span></a>
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<header class="entry-header">
<span class="bookmark-wrapper">
</span>
<h1 class="entry-title">
Perception Or Reality?</h1>
<div class="entry-meta">
<span class="entry-author">
By <a href="http://odb.org/authors/billcrowder">Bill Crowder</a>
</span>
</div>
</header>
<div class="side-box">
<nav class="language-nav" role="navigation"><br /> </nav>
<div class="meta-box">
Read: <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Mark+4%3A35-41" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">Mark 4:35-41</a></div>
<div class="meta-box">
Teacher, do You not care that we are perishing? —<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Mark+4%3A38" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">Mark 4:38</a></div>
<div class="meta-box">
Bible in a Year:<br /><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Jeremiah+32-33%3B+Hebrews+1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">Jeremiah 32-33; Hebrews 1</a></div>
</div>
<div class="post-content">
We often hear it said, “Perception is reality.” That idea for
Americans may have dawned on September 26, 1960—the date of the first
televised debate between two presidential candidates. In front of the
cameras, John Kennedy appeared composed; Richard Nixon appeared nervous.
The perception was that Kennedy would be a stronger leader. The debate
not only turned that election, but it also changed the way politics is
done in the US. Politics by perception became the rule of the day.<br />
Sometimes perception is reality. But not always—especially our
perceptions about God. When Jesus and His disciples were crossing the
Sea of Galilee in a small fishing vessel, a sudden storm threatened to
sink the boat. With Jesus asleep and the disciples on the verge of
panic, they began to stir Him, asking, “Teacher, do You not care that we
are perishing?” (Mark 4:38).<br />
Their question sounds similar to questions I’ve asked. At times I
perceive God’s apparent inactivity as a lack of care. But His care for
me goes well beyond what I can see or measure. Our God is deeply
concerned for what concerns us. He urges us to place all our care upon
Him, “for He cares for [us]” (1 Peter 5:7). That is true reality.<br />
</div>
<div class="poem-box">
O yes, He cares; I know He cares!<br />His heart is touched with my grief;<br />When the days are weary, the long nights dreary,<br />I know my Savior cares. —Graeff</div>
<div class="thought-box">
Even when we don’t sense God’s presence, His loving care is all around us.</div>
<div class="insight-wrapper">
<div class="insight-box">
<h4 class="insight-header">
Insight</h4>
It
appears that each of the four gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John)
had a distinct audience and approach to telling Jesus’ story. Some
scholars believe that Mark’s telling of the story was directed primarily
to a Roman audience, and that his approach to Christ was to present Him
as the “divine Servant.” This theme is rooted in Jesus’ own words about
His mission when He said, “Even the Son of Man did not come to be
served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many” (Mark
10:45). This theme would have had a strong connection for a Roman
audience in the first century.</div>
</div>
Mel Alarillahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09466666269959062902noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3387539628732439374.post-68225638804046213382014-11-02T12:24:00.000-08:002014-11-02T12:24:07.876-08:00A Re-post From Randy Kilgore of Our Daily Bread<nav class="nav-single">
<a class="article-prev" href="http://odb.org/2014/11/02/hands-off/" title="Previous Day"> </a>
<a class="calendar-toggle" href="http://odb.org/?tz=08#">November 3, 2014<span class="calendar-icon"></span></a>
<a class="article-next" href="http://odb.org/2014/11/04/perception-or-reality/" title="Next Day"> </a>
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<header class="entry-header">
<span class="bookmark-wrapper">
</span>
<h1 class="entry-title">
Does God Care?</h1>
<div class="entry-meta">
<span class="entry-author">
By <a href="http://odb.org/authors/randykilgore">Randy Kilgore</a>
</span>
</div>
</header><div class="side-box">
<br /><div class="meta-box">
Read: <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+30" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">Psalm 30</a></div>
<div class="meta-box">
Hear, O <span class="smcap">Lord</span>, and have mercy on me; <span class="smcap">Lord</span>, be my helper! —<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+30%3A10" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">Psalm 30:10</a></div>
<div class="meta-box">
Bible in a Year:<br /><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Jeremiah+30-31%3B+Philemon" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">Jeremiah 30-31; Philemon</a></div>
</div>
<div class="post-content">
Minnie and George Lacy were faced with some questions: “Is Jesus
enough? Is our relationship with Christ sufficient to sustain us? Will
He be enough to help us want to go on living? Does He care?”<br />
While serving as missionaries in 1904, the Lacys’ youngest daughter
fell ill. Then in rapid succession, all five of their children died from
scarlet fever, none living to see the new year. In letters to the
mission board George Lacy wrote about their deep loneliness and grief:
“Sometimes it seems more than we can bear.” But then he added, “The Lord
is with us and is wonderfully helping us.” In this, their darkest time,
they found that Jesus was near and He was enough.<br />
Many of us will face moments when we will wonder if we can go on. If
our health fails, if our job disappears, if we lose those closest to us,
will we find our relationship with the Lord real enough to keep us
pressing forward?<br />
The psalmist reminds us of God’s presence and faithfulness (Ps. 30). When he was deeply depressed, he cried out, “Hear, O <span class="smcap">Lord</span>, and have mercy on me; <span class="smcap">Lord</span>, be my helper!” (v.10). God gave Him healing and comfort (vv.2-3).<br />
As believers in Jesus, we will never lack what we need to persevere. The Lord will always be near.<br />
</div>
<div class="poem-box">
Though tempted and sadly discouraged,<br />My soul to this refuge will flee<br />And rest in the blessed assurance,<br />“My grace is sufficient for thee.” —Anon.</div>
<div class="thought-box">
Faith in an all-sufficient Christ enables us to press on.</div>
<div class="insight-wrapper">
<div class="insight-box">
<h4 class="insight-header">
Insight</h4>
“Weeping
may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning” (Ps. 30:5). David
was no stranger to sadness and grief. In these two poignant lines of
Scripture we see how anguish can disturb sleep and seem to last
throughout the night. But there is always the assurance that each new
day brings the hope of God’s providential deliverance and help. This
realization can bring joy even to those who grieve.</div>
</div>
Mel Alarillahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09466666269959062902noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3387539628732439374.post-46776720057038842412014-11-01T11:12:00.004-07:002014-11-01T11:12:59.675-07:00A Re-post From Joe Stowell of Our Daily Bread<nav class="nav-single">
<a class="article-prev" href="http://odb.org/2014/11/01/mosaic/" title="Previous Day"> </a>
<a class="calendar-toggle" href="http://odb.org/?tz=08#">November 2, 2014<span class="calendar-icon"></span></a>
<a class="article-next" href="http://odb.org/2014/11/03/does-god-care-2/" title="Next Day"> </a>
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<header class="entry-header"><br /><h1 class="entry-title">
Hands Off!</h1>
<div class="entry-meta">
<span class="entry-author">
By <a href="http://odb.org/authors/joestowell">Joe Stowell</a>
</span>
</div>
</header><div class="side-box">
<br /><div class="meta-box">
Read: <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+46" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">Psalm 46</a></div>
<div class="meta-box">
Be still, and know that I am God. —<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+46%3A10" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">Psalm 46:10</a></div>
<div class="meta-box">
Bible in a Year:<br /><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Jeremiah+27-29%3B+Titus+3" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">Jeremiah 27-29; Titus 3</a></div>
</div>
<div class="post-content">
I remember bobbing for apples when I was a child, a game that
required me to have my hands tied behind my back. Trying to grab a
floating apple with my teeth without the use of my hands was a
frustrating experience. It reminded me of the vital importance of our
hands—we eat with them, greet with them, and use them to do just about
anything that is vital to our existence.<br />
When I read Psalm 46:10, I find it interesting that God says, “Be
still, and know that I am God.” The Hebrew word for “still” means to
“cease striving,” or, literally, “to put our hands at our side.” At
first glance this seems to be a rather risky piece of advice, since our
first instinct in trouble is to keep our hands on the situation and
control it to our advantage. God in essence is saying, “Hands off! Let
Me deal with your problem, and rest assured that the outcome is in My
hands.”<br />
But knowing when to take our hands off and let God work can make us
feel vulnerable. Unless, that is, we believe that God is indeed “our
refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble” (v.1) and that “the
<span class="smcap">Lord</span> of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge” (v.7). In the midst of trouble, we can rest in God’s care.<br />
</div>
<div class="poem-box">
Lord, forgive me for always wanting<br />to manage my own affairs.<br />Teach me to trust in Your wise and timely<br />intervention in my life and to keep my hands out of Your way.</div>
<div class="thought-box">
When we put our problems in God’s hands, He puts His peace in our hearts.</div>
<div class="insight-wrapper">
<div class="insight-box">
<h4 class="insight-header">
Insight</h4>
We
often think of this passage in times of busyness and stress, and we
emphasize that the stillness means “to cease striving.” But the imagery
in verses 2-4 and 8-9 (the destruction of the earth and the weapons of
war) suggests that even when self-preservation is the aim, our hands
should be at our sides and our trust should be in God.</div>
</div>
Mel Alarillahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09466666269959062902noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3387539628732439374.post-73165792533329351972014-10-31T11:52:00.001-07:002014-10-31T11:52:29.843-07:00A Re-post From Julie Ackerman Link of Our Daily Bread<nav class="nav-single">
<a class="article-prev" href="http://odb.org/2014/10/31/what-love-is/" title="Previous Day"> </a>
<a class="calendar-toggle" href="http://odb.org/?tz=08#">November 1, 2014<span class="calendar-icon"></span></a>
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<header class="entry-header">
<span class="bookmark-wrapper">
</span>
<h1 class="entry-title">
Mosaic</h1>
<div class="entry-meta">
<span class="entry-author">
By <a href="http://odb.org/authors/julieackermanlink">Julie Ackerman Link</a>
</span>
</div>
</header><div class="side-box">
<br /><div class="meta-box">
Read: <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ephesians+2%3A10-22" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">Ephesians 2:10-22</a></div>
<div class="meta-box">
We are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works. —<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ephesians+2%3A10" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">Ephesians 2:10</a></div>
<div class="meta-box">
Bible in a Year:<br /><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Jeremiah+24-26%3B+Titus+2" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">Jeremiah 24-26; Titus 2</a></div>
</div>
<div class="post-content">
For 3 weeks every fall season, our city becomes an art gallery.
Nearly 2,000 artists from around the world display their creations in
galleries, museums, hotels, parks, city streets, parking lots,
restaurants, churches, and even in the river.<br />
Among my favorite entries are mosaics made from small pieces of
colored glass. The winning entry in 2011 was a 9 x 13-foot stained-glass
mosaic of the crucifixion by artist Mia Tavonatti. While viewing the
artwork, I heard the artist discuss how many times she had cut herself
while shaping the pieces of glass for her mosaic.<br />
As I gazed at the beautiful rendition of what was a horrific event, I
saw more than a representation of the crucifixion—I saw a picture of
the church, the body of Christ. In each piece of glass I saw an
individual believer, beautifully shaped by Christ to fit together into
the whole (Eph. 2:16,21). In the artist’s story, I recognized the
shedding of Jesus’ blood so that this unity could take place. And in the
finished artwork, I saw the act of love required to complete the
project despite pain and sacrifice.<br />
We who believe in Christ are a work of art created by God to show the
greatness of a Savior who makes something beautiful out of the broken
pieces of our lives.<br />
</div>
<div class="poem-box">
The church’s one foundation<br />Is Jesus Christ her Lord,<br />She is His new creation,<br />By water and the Word. —Stone</div>
<div class="thought-box">
Christ gave everything to make something beautiful of His church.</div>
Mel Alarillahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09466666269959062902noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3387539628732439374.post-60661297032937093972014-10-30T10:14:00.000-07:002014-10-30T10:14:01.997-07:00A Re-post From Bill Crowder of Our Daily Bread<nav class="nav-single">
<a class="article-prev" href="http://odb.org/2014/10/30/music-and-megaphone/" title="Previous Day"> </a>
<a class="calendar-toggle" href="http://odb.org/?tz=08#">October 31, 2014<span class="calendar-icon"></span></a>
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<header class="entry-header">
<span class="bookmark-wrapper">
</span>
<h1 class="entry-title">
What Love Is</h1>
<div class="entry-meta">
<span class="entry-author">
By <a href="http://odb.org/authors/billcrowder">Bill Crowder</a>
</span>
</div>
</header>
<div class="listen-box listen-box-51884-odb">
<br /></div>
<div class="side-box">
<div class="meta-box">
Read: <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans+5%3A1-8" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">Romans 5:1-8</a></div>
<div class="meta-box">
God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. —<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans+5%3A8" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">Romans 5:8</a></div>
<div class="meta-box">
Bible in a Year:<br /><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Jeremiah+22-23%3B+Titus+1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="scripture reference verse">Jeremiah 22-23; Titus 1</a></div>
</div>
<div class="post-content">
Years ago I asked a young man who was engaged to be married, “How
do you know that you love her?” It was a loaded question, intended to
help him look at his heart’s motives for the upcoming marriage. After
several thoughtful moments, he responded, “I know I love her because I
want to spend the rest of my life making her happy.”<br />
We discussed what that meant—and the price tag attached to the
selflessness of constantly seeking the best for the other person, rather
than putting ourselves first. Real love has a lot to do with sacrifice.<br />
That idea is in line with the wisdom of the Bible. In the Scriptures
there are several Greek words for love but the highest form is <em>agape</em>
love—love that is defined and driven by self-sacrifice. Nowhere is this
more true than in the love our heavenly Father has shown us in Christ.
We are deeply valued by Him. Paul stated, “God demonstrates His own love
toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us”
(Rom. 5:8).<br />
If sacrifice is the true measure of love, there could be no more
precious gift than Jesus: “For God loved the world so much that he gave
his one and only Son” (John 3:16 <span class="smcap">nlt</span>).<br />
</div>
<div class="poem-box">
Amazing love!<br />How can it be<br />That Thou, my God,<br />Shouldst die for me? —Wesley</div>
<div class="thought-box">
The measure of love is what you are willing to give up for it.</div>
<div class="insight-wrapper">
<div class="insight-box">
<h4 class="insight-header">
Insight</h4>
As
a result of Christ’s sacrifice, Paul mentions two great benefits for
the follower of Christ. In verse 1, he says that we have “peace with
God,” an idea that he unpacks in Philippians 4, where we read of the
incomprehensible peace of God, but also the relationship we have with
the God of peace Himself (vv.8-9). In Romans 5:2, Paul also declares
that we now have “access” to God. This was a stunning idea that he
explained more fully in Colossians 1:21, “And you, who once were
alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now He has
reconciled.” We receive the gifts of peace with God and access to God
because of Christ’s loving sacrifice on our behalf.</div>
</div>
Mel Alarillahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09466666269959062902noreply@blogger.com0