December 31, 2007

Leading to Worship

Personal Commitment
Psalm 116: 14-16

Read the Bible through:
AM – Malachi 3-4 : PM – Revelation 22

"I will pay my vows to the LORD Now in the presence of all His people” (Psalm 1:16:14).

On this New Year’s Eve, a lot of promises are being made. Many of these resolutions are worthy goals for the year ahead. The only problem is that for most of us the promises of today will soon be forgotten. We have good intentions, but we lack the sense of commitment that will enable us to form new habits.

Our generation is characterized by short-term commitments. We often begin our enterprises with a definite idea of how we can excuse ourselves from them if things get too difficult. Even some newlyweds begin their marriages with the understanding there is a legal backdoor that will allow them to escape when the relationship gets rocky.

Good relationships are based on love and made stronger by trials. Each party gives and receives support in relation to the other. Vows mean more and last longer because a desire to escape is not an option to one who loves unconditionally.

Father, help me keep my commitments to You and to others.

December 30, 2007

Leading to Worship

The Provider of Salvation
Psalm 116: 12-13

Read the Bible through:
AM – Malachi 1-2 : PM – Revelation 21

"I will take up the cup of salvation, And call upon the name of the LORD." (Psalm 1:16:13).

In America we have set aside several days each year to commemorate heroes and important national events. These holidays remind us of our heritage so we may have a better appreciation of our country and those who have guided it and inspired us to be better citizens.

Once each year the ancient Israelites observed a day of remembrance called Passover. On that night during the Passover meal, they would take their cups and raise them as reminders that God had provided their salvation from Egypt.

Each time believers come to partake of the Lord’s Supper, we recall the time when Jesus offered Himself as a sacrifice for our sins. He demonstrated a similar call to remembrance for His earliest followers on the night He was betrayed to be condemned and crucified. He lifted the cup and told them that each time they celebrated the Supper they should remember the salvation He made possible on Calvary.

Father, each time I think of You I remember Your mercy toward me, a sinner under condemnation.

December 29, 2007

Leading to Worship

Sincere Worship
Matthew 2:9-12

Read the Bible through:
AM – Zechariah 12-14 : PM – Revelation 20

"And when they had come into the house, they saw the young Child with Mary His mother, and fell down and worshiped Him. And when they had opened their treasures, they presented gifts to Him: gold, frankincense, and myrrh." (Matt. 2:11).

A middle-aged man was overheard to say as he was leaving a church service, “I guess that wasn’t a bad show for a dollar.” A young boy behind him replied, “Just think what you might have gotten out of it if you’d been willing to put more into it.

These days are crammed with entertainment. Even churchgoers have gotten into the habit of expecting to come to a worship service and relax while others put on a program that will make worship happen.

Worship, if it takes place for us, can only happen when we are willing to put ourselves into it. The wise men made commitments of their time and resources to come and worship the newborn King. Only we can decide how important worship is going to be for us. And that will depend on how important Christ is to us.

Father, may my worship be an indication of how important You are to me.

December 28, 2007

Leading to Worship

Pretentious Worship
Matthew 2:3-8

Read the Bible through:
AM – Zechariah 9-11 : PM – Revelation 19

" And he sent them to Bethlehem and said, "Go and search carefully for the young Child, and when you have found Him, bring back word to me, that I may come and worship Him also" (Matt. 2:8).

Some of you will remember the character Eddie Haskell from the “Leave It to Beaver” TV show. We knew the kind of scoundrel he was. He was, at best, two-faced. He presented an angelic attitude around people he wanted to impress, but those closest to him knew how devious he really was. Most of us have had to deal with at least one person like Eddie.

Herod was good at being two faced. The people of Judea knew him as heartless and cruel to almost everyone. However, when these important wise men came to Jerusalem, he was most gracious, seeking to please them and help them on their journey to find the One born to be King of the Jews. Herod even spoke of his desire to worship Him. How pretentious.

Many people in our day pretend to be devout and like to be seen in the best churches but only for the sake of appearances or for some other advantage.

Father, help my worship of You to remain genuine.

December 27, 2007

Leading to Worship

Intentional Worship
Matthew 2:1-2

Read the Bible through:
AM – Zechariah 6-8 : AM – Revelation 18

"Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we have seen His star in the East and have come to worship Him." (Matt. 2:2).

If you are plugged into the Internet either at home or at work, you are probably bombarded with emails containing amazing stories about miraculous events. Some of these stories are true; though, some of them are little more than email legends. Many of these stories tell of encounters with God or visitation by angels that have had a profound effect on the lives of those involved.

The wise men were always on the alert for some new and amazing event to be seen in the night sky. When they saw that special star in the east, they were drawn to it in the belief that it announced the birth of a king. They set out on a long journey to pay homage to this new king without knowing what His birth would mean to them and the world.

To those who seek to worship Him, Christ is easily found.

Father, teach me to continually seek after You so I may continue to encounter You all around me.

December 26, 2007

Leading to Worship

Worthy of Worship
Psalm 29:1-2

Read the Bible through:
AM – Zechariah 4-5 : PM – Revelation 17

Give unto the LORD the glory due to His name; Worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness ( Psalm 29:2).

None of us is without flaws. But most of us are able to keep some of them secret.

In recent years it seems those in the public eye, though are subjected to greater scrutiny by the media. Even the most private and personal matters of their lives are exposed to public view. Newspapers and TV news programs seem to delight in offering up stories that bring shame on high profile folk or at least takes away their public image as a role model for young people.

The Scriptures are careful to point out the flaws of even the best people from Abraham to Moses to Paul. As important as each of these Bible heroes may have been to our faith, the Bible does not soft-pedal its appraisal of them.

From beginning to end the Bible reminds us that only One is worthy of our worship and adulation, and that person is our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Lord, remind me You are the only One worthy of my worship; and You never disappoint

December 25, 2007

Sending a Savior

Evoking Praise
Luke 2:15-20

Read the Bible through:
AM – Zechariah 1-3 : PM – Revelation 16

"And the Shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them." (Luke 2:20).

The shepherds marveled that the divine prophecy given by the angel (vs. 10-12) had been perfectly fulfilled. God’s Word and word were the basis of their praise.

A church member suffered a heart attack and a few day later a damaging stroke. He was in ICU for weeks. His wife, also a member of our church, was in the waiting room around the clock, visiting him at each assigned visitation. Each time I visited with her, she reported any sign of improvement, always careful to give God the glory. She repeatedly praised God for His sustaining presence and work and expressed confidence in God’s promises. All who were in the waiting area heard her repeated expressions of faith and grace. The whole experience came during the Thanksgiving and Christmas season.

Christmas evokes praise for God’s gift of Jesus. Everyday should evoke praise in believers for God’s saving and sustaining grace.

We praise You, Father, for fulfilling Your promises.

December 24, 2007

Sending a Savior

Announcing God’s Peace
Luke 2:12-14

Read the Bible through:
AM – Haggai 1-2 : PM – Revelation 15

"Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men." (Luke 2:14).

As I am writing these words, our nation’s troops are in Iraq and Afghanistan seeking to root out terrorist networks and to bring peace to that ravaged land. Deadly attacks and retaliations between the Israelis and the Palestinians are in the headlines. On and on go reports of unrest and war. Is there ever to be any peace?

God’s action in sending the Savior meant that God offered peace among people. Paul later wrote that Jesus “came and preached peace” (Eph. 2:17) and that “He is our peace” (Eph. 2:1-4). God’s peace is a reality as individuals receive Jesus in repentance and faith. With sins forgiven, a person knows peace with God; and on him God’s favor rests. He then has spiritual resources to share the gospel and to experience peace with and among others. Peace comes only through Jesus – thus the urgency of our sharing the good news about Him.

Embolden me, Lord, to announce Your peace.

December 23, 2007

Sending a Savior

Christ the Lord
Luke 2:8-11

Read the Bible through:
AM – Zephaniah 1-3 : PM – Revelation 14

"For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord" (Luke 2:11).

Choosing a name for a newborn is a significant part of parents’ anticipatory planning. Seldom is much thought given to the meaning the name carries.

In biblical times, names were chosen because they were predictive of what a parent desired for a child. Also, God sometimes changed someone’s name to communicate a change in the person’s character or role.

In the angel’s announcement to the shepherds, Jesus’ role as savior is qualified by the titles “Christ” and “Lord.” “Savior” means “deliverer.” “Christ” means “anointed one” and is the Greek equivalent of the Hebrew for Messiah. “Lord” means “ruler” and signifies absolute authority.

All these words taken together point to the uniqueness of Jesus. He alone is God’s anointed and the only one qualified to deliver sinners. Unless we are careful, we may play down Jesus’ lordship in our evangelistic witnessing and preaching, resulting in an easy believability. Christmas is a reminder that Jesus is Lord.

Father, help me follow Jesus as Lord

December 22, 2007

Sending a Savior

Into Humble Circumstances
Luke 2:6-7

Read the Bible through:
AM – Habakkuk 1-3 : PM – Revelation 13

"And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn" (Luke 2:7).

Years ago, just before Queen Elizabeth visited Jamaica, all the roads the Queen would travel were upgraded. This was only one of the many elaborate preparations made for her Majesty.

In contrast, when the King of Kings made His entry into the world, He came into humble circumstances, even rejected by His own.

Had we been on the planning committee for Jesus’ birth, we would have thought of a palace with sanitary conditions. But the Lord voluntarily gave up heaven’s glory for earth’s poverty and rejection. Christmas reminds that the gospel is the message of God’s coming in grace and at great cost to rescue us from sin.

Teach me, Lord, the way of humility for Your sake.

December 21, 2007

Sending a Savior

Unto Bethlehem as Promised
Luke 2:1-5

Read the Bible through:
AM – Nahum 1-3 : PM – Revelation 12

"Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David" (Luke 2:4).

The emperor ordered a census. Joseph went from Nazareth to Bethlehem because “he was of the house and lineage of David.” Usually, a woman was not required to register; but Mary accompanied Joseph to the city of David, perhaps partly because she wanted to be with Joseph as she approached the end of her pregnancy. Perhaps more significant, Mary knew she was about to give birth to Jesus just as the angel had foretold. God was working through the census circumstances to fulfill His promise.

God is at work in your circumstances to accomplish His purpose for you (Rom. 8:28) just as surely as He worked in Joseph’s and Mary’s lives to fulfill Micah 5:2.

Thank You, Lord, for fulfilling the promises You have made to your people.

December 20, 2007

Sending a Savior

To Declare the Father
John 1:15-18

Read the Bible through:
AM – Micah 5-7 : PM – Revelation 11

"No one has seen God at any time. The only begotten Son, who is in the bosom of the Father, He has declared Him" (John 1:18).

The little boy had learned in Sunday School that Christmas is Jesus’ birthday celebration. As his grandfather was driving him to his Pre-K school, he broke the silence with, “When is God’s birthday?” The Grandfather replied: “Hunter, you will not understand what I am about to say because I do not understand it either. God has no birthday.” I continued: “God was not born. He has always been, and He always will be.” His answer did not satisfy; but, fortunately Hunter decided not to continue.

So many things about God we do not understand. Jesus’ primary mission was to save sinners, but He also came to declare His Father. Before Jesus’ incarnation He had been “in the bosom of the Father.” Only the unique Son who had enjoyed such intimacy could declare the Father. Jesus portrayed, detailed, and narrated the Father. He declared the inmost character of God. Thus, Jesus could say to Philip, “He that has seen me has seen the Father” (John 14:9).

Thank You, Jesus, for showing me the Father.

December 19, 2007

Sending a Savior

Full of Grace and Truth
John 1:14

Read the Bible through:
AM – Micah 3-4 : PM – Revelation 10

And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth. "(John 1:14).

Looking at the advertising, the hustle and bustle of schedules, the decoration, and the sometimes out-of-control spending, one would hardly know Christmas is about God’s sending the Savior.

The truth is that Christmas is about God’s sending His only begotten Son to redeem humankind from sin. Christmas is about the divine, eternal Word becoming human and allowing us to see both His glory and His voluntary submission to the humiliating death of the cross.

The Savior and His salvation mission are “full of grace and truth.” In our world where a works-based salvation is prevalently espoused, the message of grace, divine favor absolutely undeserved by sinners, is the message of Christmas. Moreover, in our world where religious falsehood abounds, let us proclaim that Jesus is the truth and the only way to the Father (John 14:6). Christmas abounds with grace and truth.

Father, thank You for Your grace. Give me boldness to proclaim that Jesus is the one and only Savior

December 18, 2007

Seeking Faithful Obedience

Motivated by faith
Hebrews 11:8-10

Read the Bible through:
AM – Micah 1-2 : PM – Revelation 9

"By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went" (Heb. 11:8).

Michael went to Canada on a mission trip. Though he saw evidence of God’s work in the area, he discovered that mission work there was difficult, as many people were not responsive to the gospel.

Just a few months after returning from Canada, Michael announced that God was calling him to prepare for full-time vocational ministry by attending seminary. He could have taken extension courses at the nearby Baptist College or move to a Southern Baptist seminary just a few hours away. Instead, he decided to leave familiar territory.

If he had remained in the South, he probably would not hae been obedient to God’s call. Michael felt God was leading him to the Baptist seminary in Canada. Though he knew how difficult it would be to live and minister there, he was motivated by faith to go where God was leading him.

Father, give me the courage I need to follow You in faith.

December 17, 2007

Seeking Faithful Obedience

Following Jesus’ Example
Hebrews 5:7-9

Read the Bible through:
AM – Jonah 1-4 : PM – Revelation 8

"Being made perfect, He became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey Him" (Heb. 5:9).

My wife bought me a guitar for my Christmas one year. She also gave me a book so I could begin learning how to play it. I looked in the book and found the first chords I needed to practice. I worked on those chords but wasn’t confident that I was playing the right way because the sound wasn’t like I expected it to be. I needed a good example to follow, and my friend, Don, provided it. He sat beside me and with his guitar and showed me what to do.

In life we also need an example to follow if we are going to be faithful and obedient to God. By following Jesus’ example, we will live as God desires; and we will be confident we are living the right way.

Whose example do you follow?

Thank You, Lord, for giving me Jesus as Savior and as an example of faithful obedience.

December 16, 2007

Seeking Faithful Obedience

Motivated by Faith
Hebrews 11:8-10

Read the Bible through:
AM –Micah 1-2 : PM – Revelation 9

"By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to the place which he would receive as an inheritance. And he went out, not knowing where he was going" (Matt. 2:22).

Michael went to Canada on a mission trip. Though he saw evidence of God’s work in the area, he discovered that mission work there was difficult, as many people were not responsive to the gospel.

Just a few months after returning from Canada, Michael announced that God was calling him to pre-pare for full-time vocational ministry by attending seminary. He could have taken extension courses at the nearby Baptist College or moved to a Southern Baptist seminary just a few hours away. Instead, he decided to leave familiar territory.

If he had remained in the South, he probably would not have been obedient to God’s call. Michael felt God was leading him to the Baptist seminary in Canada. Though he knew how difficult it would be to live and minister there, he was motivated by faith to go where God was leading him.

Father, give me the courage I need to follow You in faith.

December 15, 2007

Seeking Faithful Obedience

With Immediate Compliance
Matthew 2:13-15

Read the Bible through:
AM – Amos 8-9 : PM – Revelation 6

"When he arose, he took the young Child and His mother by night and departed for Egypt" (Matt. 2:14).

Margie explained the meaning of obedience to our children. She told them to think of it as “right now, the right way, and with the right attitude.” The first part of this explanation deals with immediate compliance. Most parents know what it is like to tell a child to do something only to hear the child say later, “I was going to do it.” Some people call this delayed obedience, where the child waits to do what he or she has been told. In reality delayed obedience is disobedience.

Delayed obedience can cause great pain. Consider the child who is about to put his hand on a hot stove. If he doesn’t immediately heed his mother’s warning to stop, he can face serious burns.

Many adults also struggle with immediate compliance. They know something they should do (or should stop doing) yet they put off immediate action. This can be dangerous, especially in relation to spiritual issues.

Lord, help me to be immediate in my obedience to You.

December 14, 2007

Seeking Faithful Obedience

In Keeping With God’s Commands
Matthew 1:22-25

Read the Bible through:
AM – Amos 5-7 : PM – Revelation 5

"Then Joseph, being aroused from sleep, did as the angel of the Lord commanded him and took to him his wife" (Matt. 1:24).

People in the military know the importance of following orders. From the newest recruit to the highest-ranking officer, all members of the armed services are expected to carry out commands they are given by their superiors.

Even outside of military life, we face commands from authority figures. Not all commands are spoken by someone standing directly in front of us, such as the requirement to file an income tax return or to stop at a stop sign. Still, we are expected to do as we have been told under the law. Joseph followed God’s commands. God also expects us to follow His commands.

Consider your actions this past week. Have you lived in keeping with God’s commands?

Lord, show me where I’ve failed to follow Your commands

December 13, 2007

Seeking Faithful Obedience

When the Unexpected Happens
Matthew 1:18-21

Read the Bible through:
AM – Amos 3-4 : PM – Revelation 4

"Now the birth of Jesus Christ was as follows: After His mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Spirit" (Matt. 1:18).

Dayna Curry and Heather Mercer went to share God’s love with the people of Afghanistan. They knew serving God in that Muslim-governed country would be difficult but never expected that after only a few months they would be put on trial for their obedience to God’s call. Yet despite the unexpected, they remained faithful to God. In answer to the prayers of thousands, they were released from prison.

Many time things don’t happen as we expect. This was the situation in which Joseph found himself when he discovered Mary was pregnant with God’s Son. God wants us to come to Him when we don’t understand what’s happening. He knows what we should do, and He wants to guide us.

Lord, empower me to remain faithful to You when things don’t happen as I expected.

December 12, 2007

Seeking Faithful Obedience

The Duty of Man
Ecclesiastes 12:13-14

Read the Bible through:
AM – Amos 1-2 : PM – Revelation 3

"Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God and keep His commandments, for this is man's all" (Eccl. 12:13).

I still remember the words from 50 years ago: “On my honor I will do my best to do my duty to God and my country and to obey the scout Law.” As a part of the Boy Scout oath, I recited these words at every troop meeting. They were a guide for my conduct as a Scout, and they reminded me that I had a “duty’ both to God and to my country.

We often hear about our duty to our country, but we don’t hear as much about our duty to God. A “duty” is an obligation, something we must do. Obeying God’s commandments will not make us right with Him – that comes only through faith in Jesus Christ. Even so, everyone who has a right relationship with God has an obligation to obey His word.

Jesus said, “If you love me keep my commandments” (John 14;15). How are your doing at fulfilling your duty?

Lord, lead me to obey You as evidence of my love for You.

December 11, 2007

Using Ordinary People

Reason For Joy
Luke 1:46-49

Read the Bible through:
AM – Joel 1-3 : PM – Revelation 2

"And my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior" (Luke 1:45).

The Virgin birth was not a debate for Mary. She knew the reality of a virgin pregnancy. She probably put up with morning sickness and the other struggles that accompany pregnancy. When she was six months along, she probably discovered how hard it is to find a comfortable position in which to sleep. She went away from her hometown to visit her cousin Elisabeth and found a wonderful person who believed her story of the angel’s visit and a virgin pregnancy.

In this warm loving environment, Mary’s soul was released, and she magnified the Lord. She rejoiced in her complete faith and trust in God. She called Him “God my Savior.” She believed the future held great things for her and her child. The past and present might be difficult, but she believed future generations would call her blessed. She rested in God’s might and holiness and knew He would do great things.

What has God done for your? Are you confident that he will do great things in your life?

Lord, I rejoice in You and praise Your holy name.

December 10, 2007

Using Ordinary People

Women Who Believe
Luke 1:39-45

Read the Bible through:
AM – Hosea 13-14 : PM – Revelation 1

"Blessed is she who believed, for there will be a fulfillment of those things which were told her from the Lord." (Luke 1:45).

The first time I saw her was in my office. She was pregnant and unmarried. She was a fine Christian girl, and she desperately wanted me to know she had made the mistake that caused her pregnancy only once. She told me some of her friends were urging her to have an abortion, but she could not do that. She believed God wanted her to love this unwanted child as a mother should. The last time I saw her she was still unmarried. She smiled as she talked with pride about her teenage son.

When Mary, who was six months pregnant, visited Elisabeth, her cousin somehow knew Mary’s baby was special, different, and holy. She accepted Mary and believed the stories she told about her pregnancy. These two wonderful ladies believed in God with all their hearts. They knew He was in control.

Lord, don’t let circumstances rob me of my faith in You and all my love of people.

December 9, 2007

Using Ordinary People

A Woman of Obedience
Luke 1:38

Read the Bible through:
AM – Hosea 11-12 : PM – Jude

"And Mary said, ‘Behold the handmaid of the lord; be it unto me according toy Your word.’ And the angel departed from her”(Luke 1:38).

When God devised a plan to save humanity from the consequences of our sins, He decided to cause the very fullness of the Godhead to become flesh and to dwell among us. God chose a young girl from Nazareth to be the vessel through whom Jesus came into the world.

God could have chosen any one person to comply with His needs for the purpose of so great a salvation. However, He sent an angel to explain the need and the plan to Mary. That sweet, God-loving girl answered that she was the maid servant of the Lord and that she was willing for it to be according to His word. So, with her willing compliance, she became the mother of Jesus. Her willingness to obey God gave her both joy and pain; joy in her special relationship with Jesus and pain as she watched Him die.

Lord, I want to consider Your demands upon my life. I am willing to be used of You and all that I am to You.

December 8, 2007

Using Ordinary People


Possible with God
Luke 1:36-37

Read the Bible through:
AM – Hosea 9-10 : PM – 3 John

"For with God nothing will be impossible." (Luke 1:37).

The man was sitting backward on the cab of the truck when it went under the overpass. He was knocked into the truck bed and was paralyzed form the waist down. An X-ray showed that two of his vertebral bones were far out of alignment. He was taken to the operating room immediately. After the Doctor prayed for God’s help with the surgery, the surgeon made an incision to direct the placement of the bones. It took two husky men, one on each leg, to pull hard enough to get the upper body processes unlocked and back in place.

He was still paralyzed after the surgery. The doctors kept him in the hospital, and everyone prayed for him to receive movement in his legs although they knew doing so was virtually impossible. The chaplain of the hospital prayed, his family prayed, and his church prayed. Gradually feeling returned to his legs, and within a few weeks he was walking with a cane. With God nothing is impossible!

Lord, I often first think what is possible and impossible. Help me pray for needs and let You decide what is best.

December 7, 2007

Using Ordinary People

Troubled yet blessed
Luke 1:28-35

Read the Bible through:
AM – Hosea 7-8 : PM – 2 John

"But when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and considered what manner of greeting this was. Then the angel said to her, "Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God.” (Luke 1:29-30).

The Doctor’s medical practice had been very tiring and frustrating. He was up several nights in a row delivering babies. The office waiting room was crowded, and there were many “honey do” jobs waiting for him at home. So he was glad that an obstetrical resident from a nearby medical center was coming to cover for him.

When she arrived, she was excited about delivering healthy babies and giving them to happy mothers. She looked forward to the challenge of helping people in the office. As he listened to her enthusiasm, he saw his everyday life in a new light. The things that had tired and troubled him were actually some of God’s greatest blessings.

Gabriel’s words troubled Mary; but because of her sweet attitude and her willing obedience, God was able to use her to bring a great blessing into the world.

Lord, help me to see life’s frustrations as opportunities and blessings.

December 6, 2007

Using Ordinary People

A Virgin Pledged to Be Married
Luke 1:26-27

Read the Bible through:
AM – Hosea 4-6 : PM – 1 John 5

"Now in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth ,to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin's name was Mary” (Luke 1:26-27).

Each year, at the fest of the annunciation, Catholics, Anglicans, and Orthodox Christians celebrate Gabriel’s announcement to Mary that she would bring forth a child from her virginity. Mary has been idolized, glamorized, and canonized. But the truth is that she was an ordinary young girl. God chose her to be the mother who cared for and loved Jesus in special ways.

Did God see special attributes in Mary that caused Him to choose her? Did God see special attributes in Paul, in Augustine, in Spurgeon, or in Billy Graham? We cannot accurately answer these questions, but we know God can use anyone who has a willing heart.

Just as God used the virgin as the vessel for incarnation He can take a willing heart and change the world.

Lord, I commit my heart and will to You

December 5, 2007

Using Ordinary People

Promise of a child
Isaiah 7:14

Read the Bible through:
AM – Hosea 1-3 : PM – 1 John 4

"Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a Son, and shall call His name Immanuel” (Isa. 7:14).

The prophet Isaiah preached in his own day; and, by the grace of God, he also spoke to a future time. Isaiah’s message served to assure the people of his day that God was with them.

Through inspiration of the Holy Spirit, Isaiah also told about things that were to come. A virgin did conceive and brought forth a son whose name is Jesus. He is Immanuel. He is not just a sign that God is with us. He is God become flesh. That is He Himself is God.

Though Jesus came to ordinary people, He is quite extraordinary. “For in Him dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily” (Co. 2:9). His birth was miraculous. His earthly life amazed those who knew Him. His death was tragic, dramatic, and ugly. His resurrection was awesome and opened the doors of heaven for us.

Thank You, God, for coming in the flesh to be the Savior of the world.

December 4, 2007

Preparing the Way

Through a child
Luke 1:76-79

Read the Bible through:
AM – Daniel 10-12 : PM – 1 John 3

And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Highest; For you will go before the face of the Lord to prepare His ways (Luke 1:76).

Alms! Alms for the blind! The missionary looked in the direction of the loud voice and saw an elderly, sightless man dressed in ragged, dusty clothes being led by a little boy who seemed to be about eight years old. The little boy flashed shiny white teeth at the missionary and held up a small tin cup.

The missionary knew the little guy must be tired after a long day of taking care of his elderly, blind relative. However, he seemed to be happy and grinned infectiously as the missionary dropped some coins into his cup. He then led the blind beggar over to others in the parking lot.

The child mentioned in our Scriptures is John the Baptist who led many people from the darkness of sin through a baptism of repentance. He would prepare the way for Jesus who would provide the tender mercy of God bringing salvation to many.

Lord, help me to show others the true meaning of the Christ child who was born so many years ago.

December 3, 2007

Preparing the Way

For salvation
Luke 1:68-69

Read the Bible through:
AM – Daniel 9 : PM – 1 John 2

And has raised up a horn of salvation for us in the house of his servant David (Luke 1:69).

As the missionary friend tells me that whenever the king of his town went somewhere he would travel in a convertible with the top down and sitting in the backseat in all of his colorful regalia. Just before arriving a man in the passenger seat would blow lustily on a four-foot-long horn announcing the king’s arrival.

The new baby John could be compared to this type of horn: one that announces the coming of the king. However, in this passage the horn, was a weapon of certain animals, was a symbol of power. The image Luke presented, the “horn of salvation,” means “Jesus is our powerful Savior.”

I recently heard, in spite of this wonderful truth, the fastest-growing religion in America is Islam. There is also an upsurge in the number of agnostics and atheists. Knowing this, we should proclaim the good news of Christ at every opportunity

Lord, help me to trumpet salvation and to tell others about Christ this very day.

December 2, 2007

Preparing the Way

Through God’s mercy
Luke 1:57-64

Read the Bible through:
AM – Daniel 7-8 : PM – 1 John 1

When her neighbors and relatives heard how the Lord had shown great mercy to her, they rejoiced with her. (Luke 1:58).

Some of Elisabeth’s cousins probably laughed at how old she was when she became pregnant. Some of the men probably said Zacharias should be a grandfather rather than a father. However, when the time came for the baby shower, both friends and family came rejoicing. I know from the Scripture they brought love, excitement, and joy over the mercies of God that allowed such a blessing to come to this older couple.

A Christian Doctor told me, “When patients come to my office with an unexpected pregnancy, they are frequently ambivalent. They had not planned to have a baby. They are not ready for the responsibility. I tell them when something unexpected occurs, something altogether different from their plans, they should look for God’s hand in it. Their unexpected pregnancy is a wonderful event and might prove to be the sweetest blessing of their lives.

Thank You, God, for Your blessings – the common everyday ones and the unexpected ones.

December 1, 2007

Preparing the Way

Though it Seems Impossible
Luke 1:18-20

Read the Bible through:
AM – Daniel 5-6 : PM – 2 Peter 3

And Zacharias said to the angel, "How shall I know this? For I am an old man, and my wife is well advanced in years." (Luke 1:18).

Dorothy was delighted when she became pregnant with her only child well past her 40th birthday. When the usual discomforts of pregnancy came upon her she smiled and said, “I know just how Elisabeth felt when she was pregnant with John.

Of course, Elisabeth was much older than Dorothy; and pregnancy seemed impossible. Her feeling were so ambivalent that she hid herself for five months (Luke 1:24).

God specializes in things that seem impossible. When He sends wonderful, seemingly impossible blessing to us, we should rejoice and praise His name. Especially at Christmas, we can celebrate the “impossible” fact that the mighty God who created heaven and earth became flesh in the form of a sweet little boy of humble birth to bring our salvation.

Thank You, God, for seemingly impossible blessings.

November 30, 2007

Preparing the Way

Through Faithful Servants
Luke 1:5-7

Read the Bible through:
AM – Daniel 4 : PM – 2 Peter 2

And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless (Luke 1:6).

I know a couple who met and married many years ago. After trying to conceive for a few months, doctors told them they would never be able to have children. Having grown up with seven siblings and the desire to have a large family of her own, she felt lost and hurt. How could God have allowed this to happen? The husband had his own doubts as well. As they tried to get on with their lives, God’s promise that He would always be there penetrated their hearts. They both loved the Lord and did what they knew to be His will.

Much like the couple above, Zacharias and Elisabeth were faithful to God. God uses faithful servants to complete His work and to impact the lives of those around them. I know this very well. You see, I am good friends with one of the four children God gave to the couple mentioned above.

Lord help me always to remain Your faithful servant.

November 29, 2007

Preparing the Way

Through Prophecy
Malachi 4:5-6

Read the Bible through:
AM – Daniel 3 : PM – 2 Peter 1

Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the Lord (Malachi 4:5).

My favorite time of the year is Christmas. We know the story of the Christ’s being born in a manger. But how often do we stop to thing that the events leading up to the birth of Jesus were foretold many years before they actually occurred?

Chapter four of Malachi explains the coming of a prophet who would help prepare the way for the Lord. While Elijah the prophet is mentioned, the New Testament saw the fulfillment of this prophecy in John the Baptist. He was considered an “Elijah” in his time because he called God’s people to repentance.

John’s role in the Christmas story is rarely told. An angel prophesied John’s birth, and he was born six months prior to Jesus. The reason he is so important is that he prophesied the coming of the kingdom of God and salvation through Jesus. He alerted people that the kingdom of heaven was at hand.

Lord, use me as a voice to announce to others the good news about salvation through Jesus.

November 28, 2007

Preparing the Way

With power and love
Isaiah 40:10-11

Read the Bible through:
AM – Daniel 2 : PM – 1 Peter 5

Behold, the Lord GOD shall come with a strong hand, And His arm shall rule for Him; Behold, His reward is with Him, And His work before Him (Isaiah 40:10).

Who doesn’t love a good story about a good, strong king who loves his people? A king who defeats his evil enemies with grace and honor but puts morality back into the fight? A king whose very mention of his name brings an automatic respect from those within listening distance? A king who in the face of difficulty still displays heartfelt determination to win without sacrificing his own men and does so without apology? A king who in the face of turmoil hears his people cry for vengeance and waits patiently for the appropriate time to act?

We have such a King! Our King can speak worlds into being with His own breath. Our King created the greatest mountain heights yet hears the trickle of the smallest water stream making music to its Creator.

This same King, our invincible God, loves His children and cares for them. How wonderful it is to know our God can rule with power and with love.

O God, thank You for ruling with power and with love.

November 27, 2007

Salvation Begins a Life of Obedience

With the Fruit of Holiness

Romans 6:19-23

Read the Bible through:
AM – Daniel 1 : PM – 1 Peter 4

But now having been set free from sin, and having become slaves of God, you have your fruit to holiness, and the end, everlasting life (Rom. 6:22).

Oranges, apples, and pears seem to peek interest at harvest time. How difficult it is to wait patiently as the seed is planted and tend to the seedling until the tree has become sturdy. How wonderful to see the tree begin to reach toward the sky with buds that display the promise of the inevitable fruit it will yield. What a marvelous process the Lord has granted to provide daily nourishment for our world.

We have spiritual fruit as well and can grow in the same manner. As we continually grow in our relationship with Jesus, we find that spiritual fruit, such as peace, and joy, and love, come quite naturally at times. What we find miraculous is that at the moment we think we can’t handle another difficult situation, God through the Holy Spirit can give us grace to display even more peace and love than we ever imagined would come from inside us.

Lord, thank You not only for the promise of everlasting life, but also for giving me the fruit of holiness.

November 26, 2007

Salvation Begins a Life of Obedience

Servants of Righteousness
Romans 6:15-18

Read the Bible through:
AM – Ezekiel 47-48 : PM – 1 Peter 3

And having been set free from sin, you became slaves of righteousness (Rom. 6:18).

The story is told of a small-town pastor who, because of limited budget, was sometimes reduced to cleaning the bathrooms in the church. No one thought much about it until one of his childhood friends came to visit and found the pastor cleaning the sinks. When the friend asked the reason for the pastor’s tasks, the pastor simply answered, “If Jesus can reduce Himself to losing His life for me, I can reduce myself to cleaning a dirty sink!”

Just as the pastor sought to serve others, God desires us to serve Him with a similar servant spirit and obedience from the heart. Obedience from the heart happens after being freed from sin. This takes place only when confession and true repentance of sin occurs. As we grow in our personal relationship with Jesus, we begin to have the mind of Christ and become the servants of righteousness.

God, I humbly seek to be Your servant in all I do.

November 25, 2007

Salvation Begins a Life of Obedience

Alive unto God
Romans 6:12-14

Read the Bible through:
AM – Ezekiel 44-46 : PM – 1 Peter 2

And do not present your members as instruments of unrighteousness to sin, but present yourselves to God as being alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness to God (Rom. 6:13).

When I was a small child, I was not able to do many things for myself. I could not tie my own shoes, and I certainly needed help choosing my clothing. It seems as though many things that have become habit and routine as I have matured were all large rather complex tasks I had to learn.

Before we entered into a relationship with Jesus, we didn’t know how to conduct ourselves in accordance to God’s Word. Once we accepted Jesus as Savior, we began to learn behavior expected of believers.

Just as I had to learn functional behaviors, we all have to learn to allow God to prompt us to display acceptable behaviors. Romans 12:1 refers to our bodies being “a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God.” We mature by yielding ourselves to God.

Lord, may I come to You as a small child in faith but learn quickly to follow you in righteousness.

November 24, 2007

Salvation Begins a Life of Obedience

Alive unto God

Romans 6:7-11

Read the Bible through:
AM – Ezekiel 42-43 : PM – 1 Peter 1

Likewise you also, reckon yourselves to be dead indeed to sin, but alive to God in Christ Jesus our Lord (Rom. 6:11).

Some things do not interest me. Hockey is one of those things. I am afraid I will never be able to comprehend the joy of winning a soccer match. Although I can appreciate the effort of those involved, I fear my interest in those things is nil and dead.

But I have a friend who has a true passion and desire to communicate through music. We could say he is alive to music. He constantly and openly shares his interests in music.

Just as he is alive to music, how much more so should I be “alive unto God?” I should want to be interested in what He has to say to me through the Bible. I need a hunger to be with his people in a local body of believers on a regular basis. I want to always have the desire of being aware of other people’s needs by listening and putting others first.

When we become believers in Jesus, we are transformed – "dead unto sin, but alive unto God.”

Thank You, Lord, for showing me what being alive is all about.

November 23, 2007

Salvation Begins a Life of Obedience

Crucified with Christ
Romans 6:5-6

Read the Bible through:
AM – Ezekiel 40-41 : PM – James 5

Knowing this, that our old man was crucified with Him, that the body of sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves of sin (Rom. 6:6).

My wife spent six years in preparation to teach secondary music. She learned methods of teaching, arranging of music, psychology, and trends in order to most effectively teach in a classroom setting.

As she progressed in her education, she focused less on general knowledge and more on the advanced skills of a musician. As she learned more about music, she became a better musician. She could never go back to the lesser knowledge she once displayed and operate in the same manner.

The same is true in our spiritual walk. As we draw closer to Jesus, we become more like Him. We, as Christians, can no longer tolerate our former attitudes or habits. Because we are “crucified with him,” we, as Christians, can no longer tolerate our former attitudes or habits. Because we are “crucified with him,” we can never go back to the lesser knowledge we displayed before we became Christians. .

Oh, Lord, I have been crucified with You. Thank You for freeing me from the bondage of sin.

November 22, 2007

Salvation Begins a Life of Obedience

In Newness of Life
Romans 6:3-4

Read the Bible through:
AM – Ezekiel 38-39 : PM – James 4

Therefore we were buried with Him through baptism into death, that just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life (Rom. 6:4).

Couples, who take marriage vows, agree to love one another and cling to each other for life. That couple is now considered to be one person.

Now, that they are married, they grocery shop differently, watch different television programs, and adjust to a completely altered sleeping schedule. They must focus on what’s best for the couple rather than be obsessed by their on personal agenda. That is a complete thought process change.

The same is true when we become Christians. Our appetite for God’s word increases, and we become less concerned with self and more interested in other’s needs. Our old lives are ‘buried with him…into death.” As those old desires leave us, we become more like Jesus as we “walk in newness of life.”

Father, thank you for newness of life in Christ.

November 21, 2007

Salvation Begins a Life of Obedience

Dead to Sin
Romans 6:1-2

Read the Bible through:
AM – Ezekiel 35-37 : PM – James 3

How shall we who died to sin live any longer in it? (Rom. 6:2).

In college, I had a friend who was well liked and easy-going. He seemed to truly have a close walk with the Lord. After college, he admitted to a homosexual lifestyle and having several partners during college.

As Christians, God has called us to look past the sin, to reach out and love the sinner. It is my personal conviction that gossip, covetousness, and dissension is just as much a sin as homosexuality, adultery, or idolatry. But as Christians we are to flee from sin.

Why would we allow sin to be present in our lives if we are Christians? God has called us out of the darkness of sin into His light of righteousness. Once we accept Jesus Christ as our personal Savior and Lord, we are no longer to be bound by sin in our lives. We will cease our intention to sin. God has taken our sins and cast them into the sea of forgetfulness. Being “dead to sin” gives us freedom in our daily lives – freedom to live fully in the Spirit and freedom from the death to which sin would sentence us.

Lord, give me the wisdom to flee from sin.

November 20

Salvation Means New Life

Eternal life
Romans 5:19-21

Read the Bible through:
AM – Ezekiel 33-34 : PM – James 2

That as sin reigned in death, even so grace might reign through righteousness to eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord (Rom. 5:21).

The message received by Ruth Irby on September 11, 2001, from her son, retired Colonel Wendell Irby, now a civilian employee at the Pentagon, was “Mother, I’m OK.”

Colonel Irby had been speaking on the telephone with his wife, Mary, when the deafening explosion occurred. “What was that?” he asked. Soon he learned except for the fact that his group had to be temporarily moved due to renovations, they would have been in the direct path of the hijacked airliner on that life-changing day.

Yes, our lives were changed; but thanks be to God, Wendell’s life had been changed for eternity many years ago when he invited Jesus Christ to be his Lord and Savior. Amid the uncertainties of September 11, there was one great certainty in Ruth’s mind: no matter what that day might bring, Wendell was safe in the arms of Jesus for eternity.

Thank You, Lord, for assuring me of eternal life.

November 19

Salvation Means New Life

Abundance of Grace
Romans 5:17-18

Read the Bible through:
AM – Ezekiel 31-32 : PM – James 1

For if by the one man's offense death reigned through the one, much more those who receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness will reign in life through the One, Jesus Christ (Rom. 5:17).

Samuel Myers, Jr., was the victim of the first legal hanging in Johnson County, Texas, on the charge of murdering his stepmother. Years later, on his deathbed, James Bowden confessed to the crime. Samuel Myers had been innocent and died in the gallows that should have been for James Bowden.

Jesus Christ died on a cross that should have been for me and for all humankind. The big difference in these events is that our Lord was totally sinless, yet because of His great love for us He willingly took our place. Myers was an unwilling victim; Jesus, the willing sacrificial lamb.

“Marvelous grace of our loving Lord,
Grace that exceeds our sin and our guilt,
Yonder on Calvary’s mount outpoured,
There where the blood of the lamb was spilt.”

This is abundant grace giving us new life.

Lord, for Your abundant grace I dedicate my life to Your service.

November 18

Salvation Means New Life

Joy
Romans 5:9-11

Read the Bible through:
AM – Ezekiel 29-30 : PM – Hebrews 13

And not only that, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received the reconciliation (Rom. 5:11).

The parting remark of a former early-morning television show host was “Make it a good day” rather than “Have a good day.”

A good day results from joy in the heart and soul, not from superficial, external happiness. The psalmist wrote “Weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning” Psalm 30:5).

No one escapes disappointments, injuries or losses. But a Christian can weather the storms victoriously because with salvation comes a new life where abides deep-seated joy, even during trying times.

The recent loss of her spouse due to illness left a friend sad and lonely. She explained that through this trial she also felt joy in her heart just thinking of her husband’s life with God in heaven, free of suffering. This friend made it a good day by recalling the blessing of belonging to Christ and rejoicing “with joy unspeakable and full of glory” (1 Pet 1:8)

Lord, thank You for the joy I have in knowing You.

November 17

Salvation Means New Life

Love
Romans 5:5-8

Read the Bible through:
AM – Ezekiel 27-28 : PM – Hebrews 12

But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us (Rom. 5:8).

The word love occurs numerous times in the Bible because love is its theme.

When I was a child my “Granny Hattie” always planted a vegetable garden out back of the house. I delightedly shadowed her as she planted seed in the long, straight rows. She let me plant okra, my favorite vegetable, cautioning, “Now plant them this far apart,” spreading her hands to show me. “And keep them even so our seed will last to the end of the row.”

We are God’s favorite creation, the seed of His love. We would wither in sin but for His gift of life, His Son’s death and resurrection. Nurtured by His guiding hand and watered with His love, we mature in His garden of service.

In Jeremiah 31:12 God promised Israel, having been held captive in Babylon, “their soul shall be as a watered garden; and they shall not sorrow any more at all.”

Thank You Lord for nurturing me with Your love.

November 16

Salvation Means New Life

Hope
Romans 5:3-4

Read the Bible through:
AM – Ezekiel 25-26 : PM – Hebrews 11

And perseverance, character; and character, hope (Rom. 5:4).

They sat in the shady city park listening to the U.S. Army Fourth Infantry Division Band. The audience was drinking in the patriotic music. They had just heard on the television news, “The United States has struck strategic military sites in Afghanistan.”

Most had brought lawn chairs, some quilts, while others found park benches or swings; but all sat in unified appreciation of the soldier band.

Sitting in front of us were a woman and her World War II veteran father. Filled with emotion she reached across and took his hand for just a moment. A gentle squeeze said: “I love you. It’s going to be OK.”

Yes, it’s going to be OK for those who have their hope in Jesus Christ. A Christian’s hope is much more than wishful thinking. The believers’ hope is the knowledge that God holds the future in His hands, right where we are nestled.

Father, thank You for the hope we have in Jesus.

November 15

Salvation Means New Life

Peace with God
Romans 5:1-2

Read the Bible through:
AM – Ezekiel 23-24 : PM – Hebrews 10

Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ (Rom. 5:1).

On the morning of September 11, 2001, I telephoned my wife with panic in my voice and asked, “Do you have the Television on?” When she told me that she did not, I gave her the shocking news that an airliner had just flown into a tower of the New York World Trade Center.

As I was talking to her about this terrible accident I was horrified to see another plane crash into the second tower. This was no accident. This was a deliberate act of terrorism.

For a short time during those days we witnessed a renewed interest in patriotism, but more importantly, spiritual.

I saw a woman on television whose husband was missing in the New York ruins, Ground Zero. She said: “I couldn’t bear this without God’s help. My faith in Him gave me peace.”

The peace the world gives is so fragile and temporary. But the peace that comes from putting one’s faith in God is lasting and surrounding.

Lord, thank You for the peace only You can give.

November 14

Salvation Means New Life

Resurrection Faith
Romans 4:19-25

Read the Bible through:
AM – Ezekiel 21-22 : PM – Hebrews 9

Who was delivered up because of our offenses, and was raised because of our justification (Rom. 4:25).

What’s in a name? The New Testament Book of Philemon tells the story of a slave named Onesimus, meaning “profitable.” Onesimus, however, was not very profitable to his master, Philemon. He had stolen from Philemon and run away.

But Onesimus learned about Jesus Christ whose name means “Yahweh is Salvation.” Onesimus trusted in Jesus to forgive his sins through His death and resurrection.

One meaning of resurrection is to “bring back into use.” The Lord gave Onesimus a new life. His friend, the apostle Paul, willing to repay Onesimus’ debt, wrote to Philemon asking that he take Onesimus back as a brother rather than as a slave. By so doing, Philemon would live up to his name which means “affectionate.”

Having faith in Christ’s resurrection brings to one a new life and a new name, Christian, meaning “follower of Christ.”

Lord, thank You for giving me a new life and a new name.

November 13

Everyone Needs Salvation

By Grace
Romans 4:13-18

Read the Bible through:
AM – Ezekiel 19-20 : PM – Hebrews 8

Therefore it is of faith that it might be according to grace, so that the promise might be sure to all the seed, not only to those who are of the law, but also to those who are of the faith of Abraham, who is the father of us all (Rom. 4:16).

Abraham was certainly not saved by keeping the law. It had not yet been given when God promised Abraham “In you all the families of the earth shall be blessed” (Gen. 12:3). He was declared righteous because of his faith. Genesis 15:6 tells us Abraham “believed in the LORD, and He accounted it to him for righteousness.” Paul repeated this truth in Galatians 3:6 and added in Galatians 3:7 “Therefore know that only those who are of faith are sons of Abraham.”

We are part of the promise God made to Abraham –heirs of salvation, his spiritual seed, receiving righteousness because we believe in God’s grace-gift, Jesus Christ. My children often sang a perky song they learned in children’s choir. Part of the lyrics asserted, “Father Abraham has many sons, I am one of them and so are you.”

Father, how thankful I am for Your grace.

November 12

Everyone Needs Salvation

Justified by Faith Alone
Romans 3:29-30

Read the Bible through:
AM – Ezekiel 17-18 : PM – Hebrews 7

Since there is one God who will justify the circumcised by faith and the uncircumcised through faith. (Rom. 3:30).

The Jewish people took pride in the fact they were descendants of Abraham, chosen by God as His own. They were familiar with Deuteronomy 7:6: “"For you are a holy people to the LORD your God; the LORD your God has chosen you to be a people for Himself, a special treasure above all the peoples on the face of the earth.” Circumcision was a physical sign of their separation unto God.

Now Paul was telling them the Gentiles (the uncircumcised) also were able to be right with God. They could no longer view the God of Israel as their private possession –He was “One God” who would justify both Jew and Gentile alike “by faith.” It was a fact they resisted.

Even today we continue to complicate God’s plan that we are justified by faith alone. Our flesh struggles to comprehend the incredible grace and mercy of the One who originated and completed His plan to bring people to Himself.

Father, I acknowledge Your Son as the Way, the Truth, and the Life – my only source of salvation.

November 11

Everyone Needs Salvation

Boasting is Excluded
Romans 3:27-28

Read the Bible through:
AM – Ezekiel 15-16 : PM – Hebrews 6

Where is boasting then? It is excluded. By what law? Of works? No, but by the law of faith (Rom. 3:27).

One definition of boastomg is “to glory in having or doing something.” Church members can sometimes be heard boasting regarding their churches. They might make proud reference to new buildings, successful programs, attendance, or offerings. While it is far better to be positive about our local church body, one should always be cautious about the motive for our pride and note the right recipient of praise for successes is Jesus Christ. We do well to remember Christ is the head of the church and the source of every eternal work the church accomplishes.

Paul made it clear that nowhere is this truer than in the area of our salvation. He indicated “boasting … is excluded” because believers have done nothing to merit right standing with God. By faith we simply receive what Jesus obtained for us. It was Paul’s understanding of this truth that led him to proclaim in Galatians 6:14 “God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

Father, You alone are worthy of all praise.

November 10

Redemption in Christ Jesus
Romans 3:23-26

Read the Bible through:
AM – Ezekiel 13-14 : PM – Hebrews 5

For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus (Rom. 3:23-24).

Believers have been set free from the penalty of sin because our payment was made by Jesus. He is our redemption. We are, therefore, redeemed.

Thankfully, some of us never get over the grace of God and how it redeemed our lives. My former pastor never referred to his salvation without tears flowing. A youth leader tells of his own wild youth, then weeps as he describes his encounter with God in the Oklahoma hills. A retired wrestler, in a voice raspy from blows to the throat, shared the story of his salvation with prison inmates.

I have often told my own testimony about how a faithful God intervened in my teen age years.

Father, I am awed by your goodness in redeeming me.

November 9

Everyone Needs Salvation

For all who believe
Romans 3:21-22

Read the Bible through:
AM – Ezekiel 11-12 : PM – Hebrews 4

Even the righteousness of God, through faith in Jesus Christ, to all and on all who believe. For there is no difference (Rom.3:22).

How awesome a thought that salvation is available “to all and on all who believe.” The small child, the weary widow, the homeless alcoholic, even the arrogant intellectual -we welcome their decision to follow Jesus. Yet we often resist the idea that the Ted Bundys, the Hitlers, and the Osama Bin Ladens have access to that same grace, forgiveness, and mercy; “for there is no difference.”

Allen accepted Christ while in prison. Through Bible studies and a chaplain, he grew in his faith. Upon his release, he made himself accountable to a local pastor and developed relationships with other believers. Now, years later, he is married to a Christian woman and gives testimony of a redeemed life.

Lord, I praise You that salvation is for all who believe.

November 8

Everyone Needs Salvation

From Empty Religion
Romans 3:9-18

Read the Bible through:
AM – Ezekiel 6-7 : PM – Hebrews 2

As it is written, there is none righteous, no, not one. (Rom. 3:10).

At a recent memorial service, the pastor told those attending that the man who died was a respected church member and a good man. He taught Sunday School and coached young boys in athletics, developing sportsmanship and molding their character. He was a good provider and a good employee. He was a good dad to his children and a faithful husband to his wife.

The pastor then went on to remind us that all of those things did not take away the sting of death. Goodness was not what allowed him to face his suffering and death with faith and acceptance. That is because no one is righteous enough to attain victory over sin and death. He assured us it was his personal relationship with Jesus Christ that brought salvation, allowing him to trust God in this difficult life. That knowledge also allowed his family to sing with confidence “It Is Well with My Soul.”

Father, thank You that I can be declared righteous because of Christ in me.

November 7

Everyone Needs Salvation

No Salvation by Works
Romans 3:19-20

Read the Bible through:
AM – Ezekiel 8-10 : PM – Hebrews 3

Therefore by the deeds of the law no flesh will be justified in His sight, for by the law is the knowledge of sin (Rom. 3:20).

Paul indicated in Galatians 3:24 that the law served as a “schoolmaster” to bring people to Christ. James 2:10 asserts that if his readers had tried to live by the law “yet offend in one point’ they were guilty of breaking all law. The law did not provide the Jews with salvation; it only revealed their need for it.

When the speed limit sign says 35 and my speedometer reads 50, I know I have broken a civil law. When I break one of God’s commandments, I face the truth. I have sinned. The law reveals my sin. I am not “justified in his sight.” And I have no works to offer God that will redeem my disobedience or earn salvation for me. Prayer, giving, or a multitude of good works will not merit God’s grace or assure me of salvation. But the good news is Jesus died to make available to me the righteousness of God. I cannot earn it, but I can receive it by believing in Him.

God, help me remember my salvation is a gift, and Jesus is the giver.

November 6

Everyone Needs Salvation

From empty religion
Romans 2:2:25-27

Read the Bible through:
AM – Ezekiel 3-5 : PM – Hebrews 1

For circumcision is indeed profitable if you keep the law; but if you are a breaker of the law, your circumcision has become uncircumcision. (Rom. 2:25).

“Toe the mark.” “Toe the Line.” “Walk the straight and narrow.” “Go by the book.” Americans use many colorful idioms to express the importance of following the law. Law is good and necessary to society, but law is never enough.

Paul used circumcision as an example of the law’s not being enough. In order for the law to be adequate, he pointed out, it must be kept perfectly.

Paul knew by experience the futility of keeping the law perfectly. He realized it could not be done.

He wanted everyone to be delivered from empty religion that invokes laws that cannot be fully kept. He desired that all to whom he wrote would experience the ultimate gift of love expressed in Christ Jesus. Jesus Himself promised, “I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly (John 10:10).

Father, thank You that in Jesus I have fullness of life, not empty religion.

November 5

Everyone Needs Salvation

From Dishonoring God
Romans 2:17-24

Read the Bible through:
AM – Ezekiel 1-2 : PM – Philemon

You who make your boast in the law, do you dishonor God through breaking the law? (Rom. 2:23).

When I was growing up, my mother would often caution me as I left our house, “Remember who you are.” It was her code for reminding me I was representing our family –in the activities in which I engaged, in the words I spoke, and in the character I displayed.

Paul was eager for Christians to exemplify Jesus Christ in ways that would bring honor to His name. In practice, Jews were not willing to offer help to Gentiles. This carried over to those Jews who professed Christ. Such rigidity and lack of mercy brought them a poor reputation with the world. That reputation was seen as representative of God.

Paul’s question was blunt. He forthrightly asked, “” (Matt. 22:37-40). Refusal to be merciful to others broke that law.

Today would be a good time to contemplate how well each of us is doing in remembering “Whose we are.”

Father, my desire is to honor You every day.