June 1

God Wants Me to Be Loving

A Reconciling love
1 Samuel 19:1-7

Read the Bible through:
AM - 2 Kings 24-25 : PM - John 3:1-21


Then Jonathan called David, and Jonathan told him all these things. So Jonathan brought David to Saul, and he was in his presence as in times past (1 Sam. 19:7).

Unhappy employees sometimes seek to influence their employers by refusing to work until salaries, benefits, or other factors improve. Often, professional mediators step in to facilitate communication and help bring these strikes to an end. With no personal stake in the outcome, these mediators act objectively to help companies and employees iron out their differences.

Today's passage recalls how Jonathan acted as a mediator between his father, Saul, and his closest friend David. After Saul, in a fit of jealousy, decided to have David killed, Jonathan took a tremendous personal risk by encouraging his father to reconsider. Jonathan's family ties did not justify turning his back on the friend God had provided in David. David found his way back into the king's good graces because of Jonathan's memorable act of reconciling love.

Father, give me the courage to intervene humbly when loved ones quarrel.

May 31

God Wants Me to Be Loving

A covenant of love
1 Samuel 18:1-4

Read the Bible through:
AM - 2 Kings 21-23 : PM - John 2

Then Jonathan and David made a covenant, because he loved him as his own soul (1 Sam. 18:3).

Because of the fall, it is impossible for unregenerate people to understand the kind of love expressed between Jonathan and David. Theirs was the king of love that exists between two bothers. It was the king of love Jesus had for His disciples and has for us. It is the selfless love that demands nothing in return as we relate to one another.

God wants us to love one another. He tells us in John 13 this kind of love, this deep, self-sacrificing, ever-giving love will be an external physical sign of an internal spiritual life. By this love all men will know we are his disciples. The world cannot understand that love; they never will. They will call it weakness and seek to exploit us for it. But our joy will never be found in being accepted by the world. Our joy is found in being like Jesus. He is God and He is love. If we will be His followers, this love for one another is not optional; it is essential.

Lord, as I have experienced Your love, help me give it to others.

May 30

God Wants Me to Be Loving
Whose Son Art Thou?
1 Samuel 17:55-58

Read the Bible through:
AM - 2 Kings 18-20 : PM - John 1:19-51

And Saul said to him, "Whose son are you, young man?" So David answered, "I am the son of your servant Jesse the Bethlehemite" (1 Sam. 17:58)?

Before his victory over Goliath, Saul saw David as just another shepherd boy, perhaps a bit more zealous than the rest, but nothing really special. It was after he killed Goliath that Saul took notice. David's actions had set him apart. Saul wanted to know who he was. He wanted to know who the father that had reared such a son was.

Our actions set us apart; they reveal our lineage. What we do demonstrates whose child we are and reflects the influence of our parents in our lives. If we are children of the living God, our lives will show it, and the world will know it. Jesus told His followers their works should be seen by men who would in turn glorify the Father in heaven (Matt. 5:16).

What does your life say about your spiritual lineage? As the world watches you, will they know God is your Father; or will they have to ask?

Lord, let me live in such a way that others will know I am Yours.

May 29

Ministry to Persecuted Believers
God is not mocked
Acts 12:19-25

Read the Bible through:
AM - 2 Kings 16-17 : PM - John 1:1-18

Then immediately an angel of the Lord struck him, because he did not give glory to God. And he was eaten by worms and died. But the word of God grew and multiplied. (Acts 12:19).

Herod never knew what hit him. His personal world did not include the God of the Jews. His world was one where he, Herod, was god. But at the pinnacle of his pride, God struck him down. Ours is a God who will not be mocked.

It is easy to point the finger at pagans, such as Herod, and overlook the areas of pride in our own lives. If God would punish Herod who did not profess to serve Him, how much more will He deal with us who carry his name? Knowing God is not mocked should cause us to examine our own lives, for "judgment must begin at the house of God" (1 pet. 4:17). Our God has chosen "that no flesh should glory in his presence" (1 Cor. 1:29). We, as people who know Him, should live in this awareness. To God be the glory and honor for all He has done!

Lord, help me always seek Your glory and not my own.

May 28

Ministry to Persecuted Believers
The jailers cannot explain
Acts 12:18-19

Read the Bible through:
AM - 2 Kings 14-15 : PM -Luke 24:13-53


But when Herod had searched for him and not found him, he examined the guards and commanded that they should be put to death. And he went down from Judea to Caesarea, and stayed there (Acts 12:19).

The jailers were clueless. It was beyond them how such a thing could have happened. They had personally put Peter in chains. They had stood watch and done everything within their power to keep him in prison. But unbeknownst to them, a power far greater was at work. They could not explain it, and it cost them their lives.

The person outside of Christ cannot understand the working of God. It is only with the Holy Spirit's illumination we can understand spiritual things. The world today is filled with people who cannot perceive spiritual truth. They live in a realm of darkness that blinds them and clouds their ability to see things in the spiritual realm, costing them their eternal souls.

Lord, shine through me; make me a light to someone lost in darkness.

May 27

Ministry to Persecuted Believers
Christians are astonished
Acts 12:13-17

Read the Bible through:
AM - 2 Kings 12-13 : PM -Luke 24:1-12

"But motioning to them with his hand to keep silent, he declared to them how the Lord had brought him out of the prison. And he said, "Go, tell these things to James and to the brethren." And he departed and went to another place" (Acts 12:17).

It was testimony time in Jerusalem. Peter was telling his fellow believers about how God had answered their prayers. He wanted the believers to tell James, the brother of Jesus, who was one of the leaders of the church at Jerusalem. James would share it with the church and their faith would be strengthened. While they were rejoicing, they also were amazed God had actually answered their prayers.

The reason we are often surprised when God answers our prayers is that we don't really expect God to move. Our faith is only partial. While we want God to answer our prayers we are not convinced that He will. God wants us to ask in faith and without doubt (James 1:5). The more we ask in faith, the more we will see God move and the less astonished we will be when our prayers are answered.

Lord, teach me to pray in faith, believing.

May 26

Ministry to Persecuted Believers
God intervenes
Acts 12:6-12

Read the Bible through:
AM - 2 Kings 10-11 : PM -Luke 23:33-56

And when Peter had come to himself, he said, "Now I know for certain that the Lord has sent His angel, and has delivered me from the hand of Herod and from all the expectation of the Jewish people" (Acts 12:11).

Peter had the spiritual sense about Him to recognize it was God who had delivered Him. After the great success he had enjoyed at Pentecost, he could have been tempted to trust in himself. But Peter knew his situation was one from which he could never have rescued himself. It was God's intervention that set him free.

One of the temptations we often face is to begin to believe the blessings we enjoy in life are somehow the result of what we have done. In our flesh, we want to take the credit. What we need is spiritual insight to see the handprints of God on our lives. Our Lord has a way of allowing us to get into situations from which only he can deliver us. It is His way of demonstrating His power and His love to us. In what ways has God demonstrated his power in your life?

Lord, remind me of where I would be without You. Thank You for intervening in my life.

May 25

Ministry to Persecuted Believers
Christians pray
Acts 12:1-5

Read the Bible through:
AM - 2 Kings 8-9 : PM -Luke 23:13-32

"Peter therefore was kept in prison: but prayer was made without ceasing of the church unto God for him" (Acts 12:5).


Isaiah 55:8 tells us God's ways and our ways are not the same. Nowhere is that more clearly seen than in the ways He chooses to increase our faith. Just as "the Way" was gaining momentum, Peter, one of its leaders, was thrown in prison. God's people were drawn to their knees. Through this experience, God was able to teach his people more about dependence on Him. God also was able to demonstrate his power.

The early Christians had no personal power to release Peter from prison. But on their knees, they had unlimited power not only to release Peter from prison, but also to change the world. That same power is available to us today.

Without faith we cannot please God. We should learn to see the difficulties in life not as obstacles, but as opportunities for God to demonstrate His power. He is waiting to respond to our prayers today.

Lord, increase my faith and teach me to pray without ceasing.

May 24

Ministry to Persecuted Believers
A former persecutor shares Christ
Acts 11:25-26

Read the Bible through:
AM - 2 Kings 6-7; PM - Luke 23:1-12

"Then Barnabas departed for Tarsus to seek Saul. 26 And when he had found him, he brought him to Antioch. So it was that for a whole year they assembled with the church and taught a great many people". (Acts 11:25-26)

There is always a sense in which the ways and the workings of God will remain a mystery to us. It is incredible how God could take Saul of Tarsus, a persecutor of the church, and transform him into the great missionary apostle Paul. And yet, because it is in the Bible, we know it to be true.

The mistake we make is in somehow thinking God could only do that in Bible times. In reality, God can and does do the same thing today. He is still in the business of transforming the vilest sinner into the most valuable saint. The fact he can use any of us proves there is no one He cannot change and no one he cannot use. His power is that great.

Lord, help me not to judge people as they are, but to see them for what You can change them to be.

May 23

Ministry to Persecuted Believers
Christians witness
Acts 11:19-24

Read the Bible through:
AM - 2 Kings 4-5; PM - Luke 22:54-71

"Now those who were scattered after the persecution that arose over Stephen traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch, preaching the word to no one but the Jews only" .

(Acts 11:19)

When Jesus calls us unto Himself, he calls us to carry on the ministry He began while on earth. Observing the life and ministry of Jesus, we are confronted with the reality that His ministry always cost Him personally. His most painful experiences were His most effective. It was through His death that we have life; through His pain we have peace with God.

God often works through us in similar ways. The pain of persecution forced the early Christians out of Jerusalem. It was through this dispersion that the gospel, like seed scattered to the wind, was spread abroad. Their pain resulted in the kingdom's gain.

God does not want us to suffer in vain; He wants to grow us and His kingdom. When difficulties come our way, rather than complaining or giving way to despair, we need to look for what God is doing.

God, help me see beyond my circumstances and trust You are always in control.

May 22

Ministry in Times of Conflict
Believers and contention
Matthew 18:15-17

Read the Bible through:
AM - 2 Kings 1-3; PM - Luke 22:24-53

"Moreover if your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault between you and him alone. If he hears you, you have gained your brother"
(Matt. 18:15).

I read recently about a French cave explorer who got lost and stranded, deep in the heart of the earth. The rescuers searched diligently in each chamber of the cavern. Finally, they located him at the lowest point. Slowly and carefully, they guided him back to the surface, into the light of day.

We have fellow adventurers all around us who leave the light of God and seek to discover the hidden, dark facets of life. They become lost, and in the process they hurt others and themselves. We cannot leave them in that condition. We who are anchored in Christ must seek them out and help them return to God's truth.

Has someone, through their word or actions, wounded you and others? Have they left the light of Christ? Don't allow your pain to stop you from rescuing them. Reach out and help them return to God.

Lord, make me conscious of others I need to rescue.

May 21

Ministry in Times of Conflict
Believers are God's Temple
1 Cor. 3:16-17

Read the Bible through:
AM - 1 Kings 22; PM - Luke 22:1-23

"If anyone defiles the temple of God, God will destroy him. For the temple of God is holy, which temple you are"
(1 Cor. 3:17)

Throughout Israel's history, prominent kings defiled God's place of worship. King Ahaziah relied on the false god Baalzebub. King Ahaz replaced God's altar and other important items with things that suited his particular taste. Such signs of disrespect were not taken lightly by God, and He destroyed each of these leaders.

Some believers today are tempted to trade their precious spiritual blessings so as to enjoy worldly pleasures. They are enticed by Satan to yield their bodies for the fulfillment of carnal desires. Perhaps worst of all, some people are deceived into discarding truths about God. Some even mold personal gods in their own image, according to their personal preferences.

You are God's temple. Honor Him by embracing His holiness and allowing Him to live through you.

Lord, I will live my life in a way that will glorify You.

May 20

Ministry in Times of Conflict
Believers and God's reward
1 Cor. 3:11-15

Read the Bible through:
AM - 1 Kings 20-21; PM -Luke 21:29-38

"If anyone's work which he has built on it endures, he will receive a reward"
(1 Cor. 3:14).

Stockbrokers are trained professionals who guide people in investing wisely in various funds so they can reap the greatest dividends. In our current economy, many individuals are bothered because they have invested substantial sums of money and have received little or nothing in return. In fact, when the stock market is in turmoil, investors can lose a great deal.

Pastors are like spiritual brokers. We advise others on how to invest their lives. Who wants to spend eternity with no dividends? Even worse would be to lose our own souls. Now is the time to develop a strategy for your "eternal accounts." First you can entrust Jesus with your life. Then you can invest in others' spiritual lives. You can help them find the Savior and grow in their knowledge of God. There are no greater rewards than those of spiritual significance.

Father, I want my life to have eternal significance.

May 19

Ministry in Times of Conflict
Believers are God's building
1 Cor. 3:7-10

Read the Bible through:
AM - 1 Kings 18-19; PM -Luke 21:1-28

"For we are God's fellow workers; you are God's field, you are God's building”
(1 Cor. 3:9).

Most people know the story of the "Three Little Pigs." Two of the pigs acted unwisely in building their homes. The homes were destroyed. One of the pigs, however, used bricks; and his place served as a secure shelter.

We are like houses that belong to God. As long as we live, the construction site is never closed. Where do the materials come from to build our lives? They come from our visible actions and our private thoughts. Selfish actions are like hay and stubble. They won't stand during times of trial. Worldly passions are like twigs. They can't withstand the gusts of daily stress. Lives yielded to God are built with high quality materials - pure thoughts, commitment to God's ways, and selfless acts. Then when the enemy comes, we will not be shaken.

Lord, make my life a temple in which You can be both pleased and glorified.

May 18

Ministry in Times of Conflict
Divisions and carnality
1 Cor. 3:1-6

Read the Bible through:
AM - 1 Kings 16-17; PM -Luke 20:27-47

"You are still carnal. For where there are envy, strife, and divisions among you, are you not carnal and behaving like mere men"
(1 Cor. 1:10).

In the year 1249, before Italy was an organized nation, a soldier deserted the army of Bologna and moved to the town of Modena. He took with him an old broken bucket used as a water trough for army horses. The leaders of Bologna requested the bucket be returned and the people of Modena refused. For 22 years these two cities waged a costly war during which many people died. All of that because of a bucket!

Emotions serve as accurate indicators of what is truly important to us. That's why a young child grieves over her lost pet. When a factory worker protests on behalf of a cause, it reveals his or her priorities. And we find it normal for an athlete to celebrate exuberantly after winning an important game. What stirs your emotions and passions? Is it worldly things that produce resentment and conflict or spiritual matters that result in joy and peace?

Master, may my emotions reflect the values of Your kingdom.

May 17

Ministry in Times of Conflict
Believers and divisions
1 Cor. 1:10-13

Read the Bible through:
AM - 1 Kings 14-15; PM -Luke 20:1-26

"Now I plead with you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment"
(1 Cor. 1:10).

Have you ever thought about your "frame of mind"? That's what happens when you place something important in the center of your thoughts and draw a mental box around it. Your "frame of mind" will vary, depending on what you deem important in a situation.

Imagine what can happen when a wide variety of personalities and perspectives are assembled into a church! How can a congregation possible have the same mind or be in agreement?

The key is for the church to adopt a mind frame where the focus is on sharing with the world the great news of Jesus' love and salvation. If we will concentrate on evangelism and missions, we can overcome times of disagreement and conflict.

Dear Lord, may my church have You as the frame of reference.

May 16

Ministry in Times of Conflict
Believers and the fellowship of Jesus
1 Cor. 1:1-9

Read the Bible through:
AM - 1 Kings 12-13; PM -Luke 19:28-48

"God is faithful, by whom you were called into the fellowship of His Son, Jesus Christ our Lord"
(1 Cor. 1:9).

Many children are in circumstances where they need love and attention from foster parents. These caring individuals feed and nourish the child. However, that does not mean the child actually becomes a member of the family, commitment is required. Adoption papers must be signed that bind the child and the parents together in legal obligation.

Becoming a member of a church is similar to becoming a member of a family. People aren't joining an organization. They enter into a committed, personal relationship with Jesus; and then they discover other brothers and sisters who have that same alliance.

In fellowship with Jesus, we can have strength from God for overcoming difficult times plus encouragement and support from the fellowship of believers.

Lord, thank You for allowing me fellowship with You.

May 15

Ministry in Natural Disaster
When God's power is displayed
Acts 28:1-10

Read the Bible through:
AM - 1 Kings 9-11 PM -Luke 19:1-27

“When this was done, others also, which had diseases in the island, came, and were healed"

(Acts 28:9).

Tarsus, Paul's boyhood home, was a busy seaport in Cilicia. From childhood, he knew various ethnic groups and learned different customs.

Paul's varied background served him well when the ship landed on an island south of Italy. People of Melita spoke another language, but they cared for these sudden visitors who arrived wet and destitute. Superstition seemed to be the only shortcoming of the islanders.

While Paul was on the island, God used him to heal those who were sick. I think of their rejoicing. Imagine! An intruder brought them a blessing in health. This was amazing news. They must have been thankful they treated these strangers well. Kindness worked both ways. The people of Melita gave Paul and his shipmates provisions when they left.

God over all creation, help me to minister and witness for You in times of natural disasters.

May 14

Ministry in Natural Disaster
God's promises are true
Acts 27:39-44

Read the Bible through:
AM - 1 Kings 7-8 PM -Luke 18:18-43

"The rest, some on boards and some on parts of the ship. And so it was that they all escaped safely to land"
(Acts 27:44).

My wife enjoys swimming laps in a heated pool. This hobby relaxes her. Paul and his companions, however, were swimming to survive. They only wanted to reach land. Relaxation wasn't even considered!

Some passengers from Paul's ship reached land by clinging to broken boards. These planks no longer served their original purpose. Yet their brokenness created a new usefulness. The ship's splintered timbers were valuable floats.

Similar to the boards, we are broken by storms. Our spirits are crushed among overwhelming circumstances. Fractures can heal as we continue to serve our Savior. Tempestuous winds may hurl us on strange shores. We are broken but still useful. Christians can bless others who are attempting to pick up the pieces from their disasters.

God kept His promise to spare the lives of everyone on board the ship. He still keeps His promises today.

Father, use my brokenness to help fulfill your promises.

May 13

Ministry in Natural Disaster
Thanksgiving shows faith
Acts 27:33-38

Read the Bible through:
AM - 1 Kings 5-6 PM -Luke 18:1-17

"And when he had said these things, he took bread and gave thanks to God in the presence of them all; and when he had broken it he began to eat"
(Acts 27:35).

My grandparents raised 10 children during the Great Depression of the 1930's. The family picked blackberries, butchered hogs, produced eggs, dried apples, and milked cows. The boy cut firewood and the girls patched clothes. I am sure Granny wanted the children to have more things, but they had enough and everyone learned to be thankful.

Paul's public thanks was a faithful witness to the other 275 frightened people on the ship. They hadn't eaten in 14 days. Reasons for their fasting could have been fear, seasickness, or religious views. Fasts were a common Jewish and early church custom participated in because of sin or misfortune.

After drifting two weeks, Paul assured his shipmates they would remain alive. He took food and thanked God in their presence. As Paul began to eat, everyone followed his example. They became cheerful and ate.

Help me accept from You, God, an appreciative spirit.

May 12

Ministry in Natural Disaster
Believe God's Word
Acts 27:21-32

Read the Bible through:
AM - 1 Kings 3-4 PM -Luke 17:20-37

"Therefore take heart, men, for I believe God that it will be just as it was told me"
(Acts 27:25).

Many people watched as the two odd-shaped structures rose skyward when "The Gate Way to the West" arch was being built in Saint Louis, Mo. Some people speculated. Most of those watching believed those who designed the arch.

How much more should we, as did Paul, believe God and be cheerful. The apostle realized both joy and suffering were linked to the cross. Tribulations molded him into a better servant for Christ.

Rather than hasty words, Paul spoke to his shipmates after a long silence. An angel had told Paul to "fear not." Further, Paul would appear before Caesar. Everyone would remain alive, but they would be cast on an island. Paul didn't claim credit for this new hope and promise of more adventure. He said he belonged to God and served Him.

Paul believed God in the storm. His previous trust in Christ was crucial to believing God now. His belief was rooted in the death, burial, and resurrection of his Lord, Jesus Christ.

Thank You, God, for your certain Word.

May 11

Ministry in Natural Disaster
When Human hope is lost
Acts 27:14-20

Read the Bible through:
AM - 1 Kings 1-2 PM -Luke 17:1-19

Now when neither sun nor stars appeared for many days, and no small tempest beat on us, all hope that we would be saved was finally given up

(Acts 27:20).

Have your hopes ever been dashed? Paul's voyage started with a kind centurion and normal expectations. Eventually, however, they endured troublesome winds. Now a stronger wind appeared, and storm clouds darkened the sky. Navigation was impossible without celestial landmarks. The ship tossed in blackness, far from Paul's destination of Rome. Human hope seemed dashed.

Paul looked beyond the circumstances. He knew natural disasters were opportunities to witness.

Trouble encourages us to look beyond ourselves. Jesus is our hope. We need to give our broken dreams and shattered plans to the One who delights in helping us. His perfect light illuminates our dark days, dark nights, and even darker hearts.

Father, the Bible tells me Paul was
"troubled on every side, yet not distressed . . .
perplexed, but not in despair" (2 Cor. 4:8),
Help me hide that verse in my heart.

May 10

Ministry in Natural Disaster

When Wisdom Is Ignored

Acts 27:5-13

Read the Bible through:

AM - 2 Samuel 23-24 PM -Luke 16:19-31

Paul advised them, "Men, I perceive that this voyage will end with disaster and much loss, not only of the cargo and ship, but also our lives"

(Acts 27:10).

Disagreeable weather delayed Paul's trip. The annual time of fasting (the Jewish Day of Atonement) coincides closely with the season for dangerous voyages. The mariners' new sailing became increasingly hazardous in the Mediterranean Sea after the fast. They chose to continue sailing, however.

Because people act unwisely Christians must offer careful counsel. Augustine of Hippo, who died in A.D. 430, considered this dilemma in families: "Do not give orders because of a lust for domination but from a dutiful concern for the interests of others, not with pride in taking precedence over others, but with compassion in taking care of others."

Paul had a concern for everyone aboard. He politely predicted a harmful voyage. His ignored words soon came true. Everyone suffered the consequences.

Individuals still make wrong choices. Regardless, we can offer compassionate care and Christian joy.

Help us, God, not to ignore Your wisdom.

May 9

Ministry in Natural Disaster

When the winds are contrary

Acts 27:1-4

Read the Bible through:

AM - 2 Samuel 21-22 PM -Luke 16:1-18

When we had put to sea from there, we sailed under the shelter of Cyprus, because the winds were contrary.

(Acts 27:4).

The paper sack I was carrying ripped and spilled several hundred pamphlets over the parking lot of the football stadium. A gentle breeze caught a few flyers. I chased fluttering paper around the parking lot for several minutes. My breeze was merely inconvenient. Yet some winds totally change our direction.

Paul was a prisoner. He had been arrested at Jerusalem when Jewish leaders believed he taught against the law and brought Greeks into the temple. Because he appealed to Caesar, Agrippa started Paul on his journey to Rome. A contrary wind encouraged the ship's crew to sail along the coast, protected by the island of Cyprus.

I also prefer smooth seas in my voyage through life. Sometimes, though, unexpected events thrust me into new territory. Still, my Savior is present. With Jesus, I can minister to fellow travelers in the storms of life.

Father, thank You for guiding me through the storms of life.

May 8

Ministry in Physical Crisis
A Lord who strengthens
Psalm 41:1-4

Read the Bible through:
AM - 2 Samuel 19-20: PM -Luke 15

The LORD will strengthen him on his bed of illness; You will sustain him on his sickbed.

(Psalm 41:3).

I am often asked for suggestions about helping sick people. Usually I'll share three ways to minister: practical help, presence, and privacy. Practical help involves meeting everyday needs, such as meal preparation, financial assistance, and relief breaks for the caregiver. Offering presence might include writing a note, making visits, listening, reading Scripture, sitting in silence, and praying. Sometimes, the best thing to do is to get out of the way! Sick folk need some time alone and with family.

Feeling of sadness, loneliness, and isolation can burden both the physically ill and their caregivers. They need to know someone cares for them. By being sensitive to their needs and open to God's guidance, a believer will know how to help. Even a small gesture on your pat can give them great encouragement. God strengthens His followers for ministry so we can, in turn, comfort and strengthen those who are hurting.

Lord, give me strength to minister to people who are hurting.

May 7

Ministry in Physical Crisis

A prayer of faith

James 5:13-15

Read the Bible through:

AM - 2 Samuel 17-18 PM - Luke 14:25-35

The prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven.

(James 5:15).

Medical studies report prayer can change the course of a patient's illness. These findings should not surprise Christians. "The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much" James 5:16).

It's easy to forget that prayer is a vital ministry to sick people. So often, believers are not sure how to help. Our helplessness may compel us to withdraw from people who are in need of ministry. Nevertheless, we can strive to be faithful in prayer. Those in need of prayer may be too weak or disheartened to pray for themselves. They rely on fellow believers to intercede for them.

When we are uncertain how to help, let us recite this prayer;

God make my life a little staff,

Whereon the weak may rest,

That so what health and strength I have,

May serve my neighbors best.

God, prick my heart to pray for those who are sick.

May 6

Ministry in Physical Crisis

A sufficient grace

2 Corinthians 12:7-10

Read the Bible through:

AM - 2 Samuel 15-16 PM - Luke 14:1-24

And He said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness." Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

(2 Cor. 12:9).

Society tends to frown on people who are disabled, elderly, or sick. If these individuals believe popular opinion, they may feel discouraged and devalued.

God's Word offers another perspective: "When I am weak, then I am strong" (v. 10). Only God can perform a mighty work through a frail vessel.

I've met people who, in their sickbeds, do not bemoan their circumstances, but instead glorify God. They don't give in to defeat, even though pain is a part of everyday life. Amazingly, they minister to others through counsel and encouragement. Through such people I have seen the work of God displayed. Even when cure is not attainable and death is certain, God's sufficient grace sustains those who are critically ill. Heaven will be the ultimate display of God's power "made perfect in weakness" as their frail bodies will be gloriously transformed.

Extend Your grace, Lord, to those who are suffering.

May 5

Ministry in Physical Crisis

A powerful savior

Mark 5:35-43

Read the Bible through:

AM - 2 Samuel 13-14 PM -Luke 13:18-35

As soon as Jesus heard the word that was spoken, He said to the ruler of the synagogue, "Do not be afraid; only believe."

(Mark 5:36).

Nothing shatters lives like critical illnesses, debilitating accidents, or crippling conditions. In my ministry I have met people suffering from various infirmities, such as cancer, stroke, and Alzheimer's disease. Each patient loses some basic abilities. Daily living becomes a tremendous challenge.

In addition, physical suffering stirs up heart-wrenching fears - fear of disability, fear of dependence, and fear of death. The Bible says that God can deliver us from our fears (Ps. 34:4).

Caregivers also need to believe in Christ's power. Daily they bear a tremendous burden - physically, emotionally, and spiritually. I know of a woman who lovingly cared for her husband for eight years. He was as dependent as a child. When asked how she did it, she replied: "God gave me the strength I needed for each day. I couldn't have done it without Him." Hers is an inspiring testimony of God's power.

Help me, Lord, to conquer my fears

May 4

Ministry in Physical Crisis

A Caring Savior

Mark 5:30-34

Read the Bible through:

AM - 2 Samuel 11-12 PM -Luke 13:1-17

And He said to her, "Daughter, your faith has made you well. Go in peace, and be healed of your affliction."

(Mark 5:34).

Jesus healed the woman who had been bleeding for 12 years. She merely touched His clothes. Immediately, Jesus sensed power "had gone out of Him."

Surrounded by a pressing crowd and making His way to a synagogue ruler's house, Jesus could have just moved on. Instead, He stopped and asked for the person who had touched Him. This action typifies our caring Savior. Christ is always seeking his children. He takes time to address us, to respond to us, and to speak words of peace and healing.

Even when I am satisfied with just a touch of His presence, He desires deeper fellowship. When I want to vanish in the crowd, He seeks to now me individually and intimately. However, like the woman in this passage, I must respond to His voice. In Him I will always find peace. Jesus Christ is not only the balm for ailing bodies, but also for troubled hearts and burdened souls.

Thank You, God, for healing and peace.

May 3

Ministry in Physical Crisis

A chronically ill woman

Mark 5:24b-29

Read the Bible through:

AM - 2 Samuel 9-10; PM -Luke 12:35-39

She said, "If only I may touch His clothes, I shall be made well."

(Mark 5:28).

In the face of serious illness, a sick person will go to any length to find a cure. The advancement of medical science has made possible many treatment options that just a few decades ago would have been unimaginable. Doctors are specially trained to perform surgeries using high-tech equipment. New medications can provide relief from intense pain. Through physical therapy, our bodies can relearn skills that were lost.

The woman in today's passage had sought the best medical care of her time. She continued to get worse in spite of her doctor's efforts. Though ailing physically, she demonstrated a robust faith. Her belief in Jesus compelled her to push through a huge crowd - just to touch His garment.

When illness strikes, it is natural to seek treatment and cure; but let us also seek the One with healing power. Whether or not He restores our health, our lives will be transformed by His touch.

Touch me, Lord, with your healing power.

May 2

Ministry in Physical Crisis

A gravely ill child

Mark 5:21-24a

Read the Bible through:

AM - 2 Samuel 7-8; PM -Luke 12:13-34

Jairus begged Him earnestly, saying, "My little daughter lies at the point of death. Come and lay Your hands on her, that she may be healed, and she will live."

(Mark 5:23).

My son, J. Lewis, was injured in a motor scooter accident the last week of school his ninth grade year. As a result he suffered life-threatening head injuries. Many people in our church and town enveloped him with support and prayers.

As time passed, our son made remarkable progress. The doctors were astounded by his recovery. The entire community rejoiced when he came home and returned to school, only a few days after the accident. Today he is a dentist and his mother and I often share how God answered our community's prayers and healed our son.

Parent's worst nightmares are that harm would befall their children. Just as we pled for our son's recovery, Jairus begged Jesus to heal his daughter. Jesus was not only responsive to this synagogue ruler hundreds of years ago, but also to my family. Praise God that He still performs miracles today.

Lord, help us to place the lives of our children in Your hands.

May 1

Promise of Restoration

For those who need healing

Isaiah 57:17-19

Read the Bible through:

AM - 2 Samuel 5-6; PM -Luke 12:1-2

"I create the fruit of the lips: Peace, peace to him who is far off and to him who is near," Says the LORD, "And I will heal him"

(Isa. 57:19).

A six year old farm boy, Jack Lawler, had a collie-mix dog named Bill with whom he was inseparable. One day one of the cows kicked Bill in the head. With no vet in his nearby town, his father tried to "doctor" the dog but to no avail. Bill died. Jack had lost his best friend. He cried for days and would not eat. There was very little peace in the Lawler home. Jack's parents felt his distress.

Weeks later, his dad drove into the driveway, opened the car door, and out came a little collie puppy. He jumped all over Jack.

That night they slept together. Gone was his grief and sleepless nights. His father, by bringing him the puppy, had healed him. A new peace came. In later life, Jack learned about God's peace. How great it is.

Thank You, Lord, for the peace you give to both children and adults.