Devotional for the day

[Judy Harder]

Daily Devotionals January 11, 2009

That's Awesome!
READ: Psalm 66:1-12
Come and see the works of God; He is awesome in His doing toward the sons of men. -Psalm 66:5

The word awesome is tossed around a lot these days. Talk about cars, movies, songs, or food-and somebody will say, "That's awesome!"

But if we call earth-side stuff awesome and then call God awesome, we diminish how truly awesome He is. A friend of mine has a rule in her house-the word awesome is reserved only for God.

Trivializing God is no trivial matter. He is far more than a companion who will fit into our "buddy system" or a divine ATM responding to our impulses. Until we are stunned by the awesomeness of God, we will be way too impressed with ourselves and lose the joy of the privilege of belonging to an awesome God.

A look at the Psalms puts it all in perspective. One psalmist declares, "For the Lord Most High is awesome; He is a great King over all the earth" (Ps. 47:2). And another psalm commands: "Say to God, 'How awesome are Your works!' . . . Come and see the works of God; He is awesome in His doing toward the sons of men" (Ps. 66:3,5).

What could be more awesome than the love that compelled Jesus to go to the cross for us? Put Him in His proper place as the only One who is truly awesome, and praise God for His awesome work in your life!  - Joe Stowell

Holy, Holy, Holy! All the saints adore Thee,
Casting down their golden crowns around the glassy sea;
Cherubim and seraphim falling down before Thee,
Which wert and art and evermore shalt be. -Heber

If you're too impressed with yourself, take a closer look at God's awesomeness.

Four Attributes of a Life God Blesses

Isaiah 28:16
So this is what the Sovereign Lord says: "See, I lay a stone in Zion, a tested stone, a precious cornerstone for a sure foundation; the one who trusts will never be dismayed."


Whenever God calls us into a consecrated life, it is made up of four distinct stages. Christ often compared this process to building a house. First, we must prepare to build by laying a foundation. That foundation is none other than Jesus Christ Himself. Any foundation other than Christ will not stand.

Second, as we enter a walk of faith with God, He allows each of us to experience trials, testings, miracles, and challenges in life that are designed to provide "faith experiences" that demonstrate tangible evidences of His work in our life: Moses' burning-bush experience, Peter's walk on the water, Joshua's parting of the Jordan River. These experiences built the faith of these people. The depth and width of our calling is directly proportional to the faith experiences He allows in each of our lives. If God plans an international ministry with you, chances are you will experience a higher degree of faith experiences compared to another. The reason is, you will need to look on these to ensure your calling and provide testimony to His work in your life.

The third stage deals with motives. "All a man's ways seem innocent to him, but motives are weighed by the Lord" (Prov. 16:2). What is the motive behind my actions? Is it only financial accumulation? Is it to gain control? Is it to create independence? The primary motive must be God's leading you to take such an action-it must be obedience. These other factors must be by-products of the decision.

Finally, we are prepared to take action. Here we must ask, "Do we have the skill, quality, and ability to enter into this activity?" So often we have not trained ourselves adequately to be successful in our endeavor. You would never want someone working on your teeth who had not been trained and certified as a dentist.

Before you begin your next project, ask yourself these four questions. What is the foundation this project is based on? What experiences has God demonstrated in my life that indicate His involvement? What is my motive for entering this activity? Do I have the skill, quality, and ability to accomplish the task? Answering these questions will tell you whether God will bless your activity.

Don't Miss This Conference
Workplace leaders, business owners, professionals, and ministry leaders will come together from across the US and world to Atlanta, Georgia on January 24-26, 2008 for a powerful conference to learn how to become strategic influencers in the 7 key areas that shape society. 8 main sessions and 18 workshops will focus on re-claiming our society for Christ. Reserve your spot today. www.SevenMountains.digbrocom 

Laws of the Lighthouse
by Max Lucado

The first of the year is known for three things: black-eyed peas, bowl games, and lists. Some don't eat black-eyed peas. Others hate football. But everybody likes lists.

The Bible certainly has its share of lists. Moses brought one down from the mountain.

There are lists of the gifts of the Spirit. Lists of good fruit and bad. Lists of salutations and greetings. Even the disciples' boat got into the action as it listed in the stormy Sea of Galilee. (If you smiled at that, then I've got a list of puns you'd enjoy.)

But the greatest day of lists is still New Year's Day. And the number one list is the list I call the Laws of the Lighthouse.

The Laws of the Lighthouse contain more than good ideas, personal preferences, and honest opinions. They are God-given, time-tested truths that define the way you should navigate your life. Observe them and enjoy secure passage. Ignore them and crash against the ragged rocks of reality.

Smart move. The wise captain shifts the direction of his craft according to the signal of the lighthouse. A wise person does the same.

Herewith, then, are the lights I look for and the signals I heed:

- Love God more than you fear hell.
- Once a week, let a child take you on a walk.
- Make major decisions in a cemetery.
- When no one is watching, live as if someone is.
- Succeed at home first.
- Don't spend tomorrow's money today.
- Pray twice as much as you fret.
- Listen twice as much as you speak.
- Only harbor a grudge when God does.
- Never outgrow your love of sunsets.
- Treat people like angels; you will meet some and help make some.
- 'Tis wiser to err on the side of generosity than on the side of scrutiny.
- God has forgiven you; you'd be wise to do the same.
- When you can't trace God's hand, trust his heart.
- Toot your own horn and the notes will be flat.
- Don't feel guilty for God's goodness.
- The book of life is lived in chapters, so know your page number.
- Never let the important be the victim of the trivial.
- Live your liturgy.

To sum it all up:
Approach life like a voyage on a schooner. Enjoy the view. Explore the vessel. Make friends with the captain. Fish a little. And then get off when you get home.


From
In the Eye of the Storm
© (Thomas Nelson Publishers, 2006) Max Lucado

What My Obedience to God Costs Other People

As they led Him away, they laid hold of a certain man, Simon . . . , and on him they laid the cross that he might bear it after Jesus -Luke 23:26
If we obey God, it is going to cost other people more than it costs us, and that is where the pain begins. If we are in love with our Lord, obedience does not cost us anything- it is a delight. But to those who do not love Him, our obedience does cost a great deal. If we obey God, it will mean that other people's plans are upset. They will ridicule us as if to say, "You call this Christianity?" We could prevent the suffering, but not if we are obedient to God. We must let the cost be paid.

When our obedience begins to cost others, our human pride entrenches itself and we say, "I will never accept anything from anyone." But we must, or disobey God. We have no right to think that the type of relationships we have with others should be any different from those the Lord Himself had (see Luke 8:1-3).

A lack of progress in our spiritual life results when we try to bear all the costs ourselves. And actually, we cannot. Because we are so involved in the universal purposes of God, others are immediately affected by our obedience to Him. Will we remain faithful in our obedience to God and be willing to suffer the humiliation of refusing to be independent? Or will we do just the opposite and say, "I will not cause other people to suffer"? We can disobey God if we choose, and it will bring immediate relief to the situation, but it will grieve our Lord. If, however, we obey God, He will care for those who have suffered the consequences of our obedience. We must simply obey and leave all the consequences with Him.

Beware of the inclination to dictate to God what consequences you would allow as a condition of your obedience to Him.

God Bless

[Judy Harder]

Daily Devotionals January 12, 2009

Beyond Help?
READ: Luke 23:33-43
Jesus said to him, "Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise." -Luke 23:43

A 110-year-old Israeli Bedouin shepherd was admitted to a Beersheba hospital while experiencing a heart attack. In spite of his age, doctors worked hard to save him. The man was thought to be the oldest heart patient ever to be treated successfully with anticlotting drugs. A hospital spokesperson reported that the Bedouin returned to his tent in the Negev Desert to tend his goats.

The care given to this 110-year-old man faintly echoes the way Jesus responded to those people we consider beyond help. His ability and willingness to go beyond social barriers to help lepers and social outcasts went far beyond the normal expectations of what a good person would do.

Even in the agony of His own suffering, Jesus reached out to a dying man everyone else regarded as beyond help. The man was a criminal, condemned to die, and only hours from entering a lost eternity. In that moment, Jesus responded to the man's cry for help and said, "Today you will be with Me in Paradise" (Luke 23:43).

Do you know someone who seems beyond help today? Perhaps you think you are without hope. The God of the Bible specializes in giving help to those regarded as so old, so guilty, or so weak as to be beyond help.  - Mart De Haan

Jesus seeks the lowly ones
When others do not care;
His lovingkindness and His help
He longs with them to share. -D. De Haan


God's strength is best seen in our weakness.

I will give you the treasures of darkness, riches stored in secret places, so that you may know that I am the LORD, the God of Israel, who summons you by name (Isa 45:3).

When God takes you to a depth of soul experience be alert to new truths and new perspectives. During these times God often leads us to amazing new discoveries. It can be a storehouse of unexpected riches for the soul.

Bible teacher F. B. Meyer once observed, "Whenever you get into a prison of circumstances, be on watch. Prisons are rare places for seeing things. It was in prison that Bunyan saw his wondrous allegory and Paul met the Lord and John looked through heaven's open door and Joseph saw God's mercy. God has no chance to show His mercy to some of us except when we are in some distressing sorrow. The night is the time to see the stars."1

I began writing TGIF Today God Is First daily devotionals in the middle of a seven year period of darkness. Today, the devotionals are read daily by hundreds of thousands of people around the world. God has revealed to me secret things that have benefited countless others. Writing has become a central focus of God's work in me. If I had not gone through that dark time, I wouldn't be an author today.

We must live each day to the fullest. We can't live in the past or in the future. We must live in the moment God that gives us right now. Our time of deliverance will come according to God's schedule. Meanwhile, we need to be faithful in doing what God has given us to do and be content in the place where He has placed us.

When we go through a trial of adversity, we need to understand that God is performing radical surgery on our life. The purpose of this surgery is not to destroy us, but to give us a new heart. God is making a fundamental change in who we are and who we will be.

And, He will always reveal treasures from these secret places if we are willing to walk through the process patiently.


The Church In The Workplace Conference: Reclaim the 7 Mountains of Culture
February 6-8, 2009 Atlanta, GA
"Shout! For the Lord has given you the city" (Joshua 6:16b). This is the theme of our 2009 International Church in the Workplace Conference on the theme of Reclaiming the 7 Mountains of Culture. If you are called to impact culture through your marketplace calling you must understand the spiritual and the physical dimension of your assignment. This year's conference will focus on the process that God uses in the life of the leader to impact culture. You can become a change agent!

Living Free Every Day®
Today's Scripture

"It is because of the Lord's mercy and loving-kindness that we are not consumed, because His [tender] compassions fail not. They are new every morning; great and abundant is Your stability and faithfulness." Lamentations 3:22-23 AMP

Thoughts for Today

Life is filled with many kinds of losses. All losses hurt, whether they are big ones or little ones. We recover quickly from some losses; others take months or years to absorb. Some losses are temporary while others are permanent.

In today's environment of business closings and downsizing, many are facing the loss of their job. This kind of loss can be devastating to anyone, especially the breadwinner of a family. Even if it is a second job, it may represent a threat to survival.

Consider this...

Job loss can produce many emotions, but fear is usually at the root of any response. Will I lose my home? My child is leaving for college this fall-will I have to break the news that it will be impossible? We have built up credit card debt trying to keep our heads above water what now?

These and many other concerns are very real and can seem extremely threatening. If we keep our eyes on the waves, we will sink into despair and hopelessness. This is a time when it is difficult-but imperative-that we focus on Jesus, not on the problems. This is a time to remember that he, not our job, is our source.

We may go through some real challenges. We may have to tighten our belts and make some sacrifices. These struggles are not easy, but with Jesus we can find hope.

Our job may be gone. The economy may be falling apart. But God has not changed. It is because of his mercy and loving-kindness that we are not consumed. "His [tender] compassions fail not. They are new every morning; great and abundant is Your stability and faithfulness."

Jesus will make a way.

Prayer

Father, this job loss has left me feeling angry and fearful. Help me to regroup-to remember that you are here, that you love me and my family and that you have a plan. Help me remember that you have not been taken by surprise and that you have already made a way for us. Thank you that your compassion never fails and that your stability and faithfulness are abundant. In Jesus' name 

These thoughts were drawn from

Handling Loss and Grief: How to Face Losses in Life and Grieve Christianly by Raymond T. Brock, Ed.D. This study teaches participants what the Bible has to say about handling the losses of life. It offers biblical coping methods for facing loss.

Would you like to have these devotions appear daily on your church or ministry website? Learn More

 
PO Box 22127 ~ Chattanooga, Tennessee 37421 ~ 423-899-4770
© Living Free 2007. Living Free is a registered trademark. Living Free Every Day devotionals may be reproduced for personal use. When reproduced to share with others, please acknowledge the source as Living Free, Chattanooga, TN. Must have written permission to use in any format to be sold. Permission may be requested by sending e-mail to info@LivingFree.org.

Have You Ever Been Alone with God? (1)


When they were alone, He explained all things to His disciples -Mark 4:34
Our Solitude with Him. Jesus doesn't take us aside and explain things to us all the time; He explains things to us as we are able to understand them. The lives of others are examples for us, but God requires us to examine our own souls. It is slow work- so slow that it takes God all of time and eternity to make a man or woman conform to His purpose. We can only be used by God after we allow Him to show us the deep, hidden areas of our own character. It is astounding how ignorant we are about ourselves! We don't even recognize the envy, laziness, or pride within us when we see it. But Jesus will reveal to us everything we have held within ourselves before His grace began to work. How many of us have learned to look inwardly with courage?

We have to get rid of the idea that we understand ourselves. That is always the last bit of pride to go. The only One who understands us is God. The greatest curse in our spiritual life is pride. If we have ever had a glimpse of what we are like in the sight of God, we will never say, "Oh, I'm so unworthy." We will understand that this goes without saying. But as long as there is any doubt that we are unworthy, God will continue to close us in until He gets us alone. Whenever there is any element of pride or conceit remaining, Jesus can't teach us anything. He will allow us to experience heartbreak or the disappointment we feel when our intellectual pride is wounded. He will reveal numerous misplaced affections or desires- things over which we never thought He would have to get us alone. Many things are shown to us, often without effect. But when God gets us alone over them, they will be clear

God Bless

[Judy Harder]

Daily Devotionals January 13, 2009

The Bible's School Of Prayer
READ: Habakkuk 1:1-4
I will speak in the anguish of my spirit. -Job 7:11

To call God and us unequal partners is a laughable understatement. And yet by inviting us to do kingdom work on earth, God has indeed set up a kind of odd-couple alliance. God delegates work to human beings so that we do history together, so to speak. Clearly, the partnership has one dominant partner-something like an alliance between Microsoft and a high school programmer.

We know well what happens when human beings form unequal alliances: the dominant partner tends to throw his weight around and the subordinate mostly keeps quiet. But God, who has no reason to be threatened by us, invites a steady and honest flow of communication.

I sometimes wonder why God places such a high value on honesty in our prayers, even to the extent of enduring unjust outbursts. I am startled to see how many biblical prayers seem ill-tempered. Jeremiah griped about unfairness (20:7-10); Habakkuk accused God of deafness (1:2); Job conceded, "What profit do we have if we pray to Him?" (21:15). The Bible teaches us to pray with blistering honesty.

God wants us to come to Him with our complaints. If we march through life pretending to smile while inside we bleed, we dishonor the relationship.  - Philip Yancey

Give Him each perplexing problem,
All your needs to Him make known;
Bring to Him your daily burdens-
Never carry them alone! -Adams

The best thermometer of your spiritual temperature is the intensity of your prayer. -Spurgeon

Living for a cause Greater than Yourself
By Os Hillman

Defend the cause of the weak and fatherless; maintain the rights of the poor and oppressed. Rescue the weak and needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked (Ps 82:3-4).

God raises up leaders to take on causes that are much greater than themselves.

However, these causes are often first birthed as a result of a personal crisis or conviction; then this leads to a larger cause.

Martin Luther King had a personal conviction that racial discrimination was wrong. He sought to change this through preaching and nonviolent demonstrations. It wasn't long before this became the conviction of others and it became a movement larger than any one person.

William Wilberforce was a political statesman in England. He came to Christ when he was twenty-eight years old. He began to have personal convictions about slavery in England and he committed his life to the goal of destroying slavery. He finally achieved his goal after fifty years of work. His work also resulted in sixty-four world changing initiatives before he died.

William Wallace was burdened about the persecution his country received from the wicked English king named Edward the Longshanks. Born in 1272, Wallace grew up under the persecution from the wicked king. When he was older, he led a rebellion against England that resulted in the freedom for the nation of Scotland. The popular movie, Braveheart, was the story of William Wallace.

My own ministry to those in the workplace first began as a personal crisis. This developed later into a call to serve believers in the marketplace.

Has God allowed a crisis in your life? God often raises leaders and begins movements as a result of a personal crisis in a leader's life.

Contact Os Hillman at www.marketplaceleaders.org.

The Church In The Workplace Conference: Reclaim the 7 Mountains of Culture
February 6-8, 2009 Atlanta, GA
"Shout! For the Lord has given you the city" (Joshua 6:16b). This is the theme of our 2009 International Church in the Workplace Conference on the theme of Reclaiming the 7 Mountains of Culture. If you are called to impact culture through your marketplace calling you must understand the spiritual and the physical dimension of your assignment. This year's conference will focus on the process that God uses in the life of the leader to impact culture. You can become a change agent!

Living Free Every Day®
"I've learned by now to be quite content whatever my circumstances. I'm just as happy with little as with much, with much as with little. I've found the recipe for being happy whether full or hungry, hands full or hands empty. Whatever I have, wherever I am, I can make it through anything in the One who makes me who I am." Philippians 4:12-13 MSG

Thoughts for Today

Many people are experiencing severe financial loss in the current economic climate. Stock market woes. Investment values plummeting. Retirement funds disappearing. Even without job loss, this downhill slide can be frightening. Coupled with job loss, it can be devastating but it doesn't have to be.

In today's scripture the apostle Paul tells us that he has experienced both riches and poverty, but that he has reached a point where his joy and his well-being don't depend on the security of his bank account. No matter what he is going through, he knows that Jesus will give him the strength to make it through.

Jesus will do the same for you.

Consider this

As human beings, we all have a tendency to place our confidence in things we can see or control. Looking at a solid report on our investments or a sizable bank balance on our statement can give us a feeling of security. But in the current economic crisis, we are being reminded all too clearly that these things are not secure, that they can disappear in a moment.

Paul knew where his security was. He knew that no matter what the circumstances, Jesus would be there and would give him the strength needed to make it through.

No matter what your circumstances, remember that Jesus is with you. He will give you the strength you need. As you lean on him, and trust him and obey him, he will make a way.

Prayer

Father, help me remember that even if all my investments fail and my retirement fund collapses, you haven't changed. Thank you that your love for me will never change and that with you I can make it-no matter what. In Jesus' name

These thoughts were drawn from

Handling Loss and Grief: How to Face Losses in Life and Grieve Christianly by Raymond T. Brock, Ed.D. This study teaches participants what the Bible has to say about handling the losses of life. It offers biblical coping methods for facing loss.

Would you like to have these devotions appear daily on your church or ministry website? Learn More

PO Box 22127 ~ Chattanooga, Tennessee 37421 ~ 423-899-4770
© Living Free 2007. Living Free is a registered trademark. Living Free Every Day devotionals may be reproduced for personal use. When reproduced to share with others, please acknowledge the source as Living Free, Chattanooga, TN. Must have written permission to use in any format to be sold. Permission may be requested by sending e-mail to info@LivingFree.org.
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Have You Ever Been Alone with God? (2)
When He was alone . . . the twelve asked Him about the parable -Mark 4:10

His Solitude with Us. When God gets us alone through suffering, heartbreak, temptation, disappointment, sickness, or by thwarted desires, a broken friendship, or a new friendship- when He gets us absolutely alone, and we are totally speechless, unable to ask even one question, then He begins to teach us. Notice Jesus Christ's training of the Twelve. It was the disciples, not the crowd outside, who were confused. His disciples constantly asked Him questions, and He constantly explained things to them, but they didn't understand until after they received the Holy Spirit (see John 14:26).

As you journey with God, the only thing He intends to be clear is the way He deals with your soul. The sorrows and difficulties in the lives of others will be absolutely confusing to you. We think we understand another person's struggle until God reveals the same shortcomings in our lives. There are vast areas of stubbornness and ignorance the Holy Spirit has to reveal in each of us, but it can only be done when Jesus gets us alone. Are we alone with Him now? Or are we more concerned with our own ideas, friendships, and cares for our bodies? Jesus cannot teach us anything until we quiet all our intellectual questions and get alone with Him.

God Bless

[Judy Harder]

Daily Devotionals January 14, 2009

On The Wing
READ: Matthew 10:27-31
Do not fear therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows. -Matthew 10:31

In his book On the Wing, Alan Tennant chronicles his efforts to track the migration of the peregrine falcon. Valued for their beauty, swiftness, and power, these amazing birds of prey were favorite hunting companions of emperors and nobility. Sadly, the wide use of the pesticide DDT in the 1950s interfered with their reproductive cycle and placed them on the endangered species list.

Interested in the recovery of this species, Tennant attached transmitters to a select number of falcons to track their migration patterns. But when he and his pilot flew their Cessna behind the birds, they repeatedly lost signal from the transmitters. Despite their advanced technology, they were not always able to track the birds they wanted to help.

It's good to know that the God who cares for us never loses track of us. In fact, Jesus said that not even one sparrow "falls to the ground apart from [God's] will. . . . Do not fear therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows" (Matt. 10:29-31).

When we face difficult circumstances, fear may cause us to wonder if God is aware of our situation. Jesus' teaching assures us that God cares deeply and is in control. His tracking of our lives will never fail.  - Dennis Fisher

I would tell the Lord my longings,
Roll on Him my every care;
Cast upon Him all my burdens,
Burdens that I cannot bear. -Weigle


If God cares for birds, will He not care for His children?

Big Assignments
By Os Hillman

The Israelites journeyed from Rameses to Succoth. There were about six hundred thousand men on foot, besides women and children (Ex 12:37-38).

How does God prepare someone for big assignments? Consider the mission given to Moses. He was called to deliver an entire nation from slavery. The assignment was to bring six hundred thousand men, on foot, out of Egypt and into the Promised Land. In addition, there were the women and children. Talk about a big assignment! Imagine the logistics of such an endeavor.

God prepared Moses by allowing him to grow up from infancy under the ways of Egypt. He learned their customs, their idols, and was a favored son of Pharaoh until God revealed his birthright. He began to realize God had placed him in the court of Pharaoh but realized he was not one of them. He was being called back to his own people. He tried to deliver his people using the ways of Egypt. This was not God's way. So, God banished him to the land of Midian for additional training.

God guided Moses to Midian because the Midianites were of the seed of Abraham, and retained the worship of the true God among them. God allowed Moses to learn the trade of shepherding sheep for forty years. Moses learned while living in the arid dry land moving sheep around to places where water and grass could be found. The desert was a place of preparation for one of the greatest assignments given to one man. Did you hear what I just said? Yes, the desert was the place of preparation.

Moses was battle-trained in the same environment he would spend another forty years to bring a stubborn and willful people out of slavery.

What kind of assignment is God preparing you for? Does He have you in the desert of preparation? Learn well the lessons you are there to learn. You may find you are called to be a deliverer, just like Moses.

Contact Os Hillman at www.marketplaceleaders.org.

   
The Church In The Workplace Conference: Reclaim the 7 Mountains of Culture
February 6-8, 2009 Atlanta, GA
"Shout! For the Lord has given you the city" (Joshua 6:16b). This is the theme of our 2009 International Church in the Workplace Conference on the theme of Reclaiming the 7 Mountains of Culture. If you are called to impact culture through your marketplace calling you must understand the spiritual and the physical dimension of your assignment. This year's conference will focus on the process that God uses in the life of the leader to impact culture. You can become a change agent!

Living Free Every Day®
Today's Scripture

"Whatever happens, keep thanking God because of Jesus Christ. This is what God wants you to do." 1 Thessalonians 5:18 CEV

Thoughts for Today

We all experience various kinds of loss through our lives. This week we have specifically addressed job and financial loss because so many people are currently dealing with these situations. A natural result of financial setbacks is often loss of home or other tangible things. Literally thousands have faced foreclosure in recent times.

The loss of a home can cause severe emotional trauma and demands many decisions. Where will we live? How can we tell our children they have to change schools and move away from their friends? Will we ever be able to own a home again? What are we going to do?

Consider this

During extremely difficult times like these, it is so much easier to focus on what we have lost, what we don't have, than to consider our blessings. Today's scripture reminds us that no matter what is happening, we do have much to be thankful for- and that is exactly what God wants us to do thank him for our blessings, starting with Jesus and all he has done for us.

If you are in the middle of trying times, take time right now to write a list of your blessings. Your list might include family and loved ones, friends, health, freedom and must include Jesus' love and forgiveness. As you begin to name a few blessings, you will no doubt find that the list continues to grow. And as you realize how much you have to be thankful for, you will open your heart for Jesus to fill it with hope for the future.

Prayer

Father, as I begin to think about these things, I realize that even in the midst of this difficult time, I have so much to be thankful for. Thank you for Jesus. Thank you for forgiveness. Thank you for life. Thank you for each kindness others have shown me. Thank you for so much more ... And thank you that I can trust in you for today  and tomorrow and the future. In Jesus' name 

These thoughts were drawn from

Handling Loss and Grief: How to Face Losses in Life and Grieve Christianly by Raymond T. Brock, Ed.D. This study teaches participants what the Bible has to say about handling the losses of life. It offers biblical coping methods for facing loss.

Would you like to have these devotions appear daily on your church or ministry website? Learn More

 
PO Box 22127 ~ Chattanooga, Tennessee 37421 ~ 423-899-4770
© Living Free 2007. Living Free is a registered trademark. Living Free Every Day devotionals may be reproduced for personal use. When reproduced to share with others, please acknowledge the source as Living Free, Chattanooga, TN. Must have written permission to use in any format to be sold. Permission may be requested by sending e-mail to info@LivingFree.org.
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Called By God
I heard the voice of the Lord, saying: 'Whom shall I send, and who will go for Us?' Then I said, 'Here am I! Send me' -Isaiah 6:8
God did not direct His call to Isaiah- Isaiah overheard God saying, ". . . who will go for Us?" The call of God is not just for a select few but for everyone. Whether I hear God's call or not depends on the condition of my ears, and exactly what I hear depends upon my spiritual attitude. "Many are called, but few are chosen" (Matthew 22:14). That is, few prove that they are the chosen ones. The chosen ones are those who have come into a relationship with God through Jesus Christ and have had their spiritual condition changed and their ears opened. Then they hear "the voice of the Lord" continually asking, ". . . who will go for Us?" However, God doesn't single out someone and say, "Now, you go." He did not force His will on Isaiah. Isaiah was in the presence of God, and he overheard the call. His response, performed in complete freedom, could only be to say, "Here am I! Send me."

Remove the thought from your mind of expecting God to come to force you or to plead with you. When our Lord called His disciples, He did it without irresistible pressure from the outside. The quiet, yet passionate, insistence of His "Follow Me" was spoken to men whose every sense was receptive (Matthew 4:19). If we will allow the Holy Spirit to bring us face to face with God, we too will hear what Isaiah heard-"the voice of the Lord." In perfect freedom we too will say, "Here am I! Send me."

God Bless

[Judy Harder]

Daily Devotionals January 15, 2009

It's In God's Word
READ: Psalm 119:25-32
I will run the course of Your commandments, for You shall enlarge my heart. -Psalm 119:32

As optimistic as I am (I can find a bright side to just about everything), I also know that life can be a dark and lonely place.

I've talked to teenagers who have a parent whose anger makes just going home after school a dreaded trip.

I've known people who can't escape the curtain of depression.

I've spent considerable time with others who, like my wife and me, are enduring life with the sudden death of a child.

I've seen what relentless poverty can do to people all over the world.

Despite knowing that these scenarios exist, I don't despair. I know that hope is available in Jesus, that guidance comes through the Spirit, and that knowledge and power are found in God's Word.

The words of Psalm 119 give us encouragement. When our soul "clings to the dust," we can be revived according to God's Word (v.25). When our soul is full of sorrow, we can be strengthened by His Word (v.28). When we are threatened by deceit, we can follow the truth of His Word (vv.29-30). Our heart can be set free by God's commands (v.32).

Are life's demands overwhelming you? If so, you can find hope, guidance, and knowledge to help. It's in God's Word.  - Dave Branon

If your soul is parched and thirsty
And you feel weighed down by care,
Go to God's Word for refreshment-
You'll find strength and comfort there. -Sper

A well-read Bible makes a well-fed soul.

The New Employee
By Os Hillman

But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us (2 Cor 4:7).

What would happen if Jesus took your place for a year in your workplace? Let's consider some hypothetical things that He might do.

He would do His work with excellence. He would be known around the office for the great work He did (Exodus 31:2).

He would develop new ideas for doing things better (Eph 3:20).

He would hang out with sinners in order to develop a relationship with them in order to speak to them about the Father (Mt 9:12).

He would strategically pray for each worker about their concerns and their needs. He would pray for those who even disliked Him (Mt 5:44).

He would rally the office to support a needy family during Christmas (Jer 22:16).

He would offer to pray for those who were sick in the office and see them get healed (Mt 14:14).

He would honor the boss and respect him/her (Titus 2:9).

He would consider the boss as His authority in His workplace (Rom 13:1).

He would be truthful in all his dealings and never exaggerate for the sake of advancement ( Ps 15:2).

He would be concerned about His city (Lk 19:41).

He would always have a motive to help others become successful, even at his own expense (Pr 16:2).

Hmm. Sounds like some good ideas we could each model.

Contact Os Hillman at www.marketplaceleaders.org.

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The Church In The Workplace Conference: Reclaim the 7 Mountains of Culture
February 6-8, 2009 Atlanta, GA
"Shout! For the Lord has given you the city" (Joshua 6:16b). This is the theme of our 2009 International Church in the Workplace Conference on the theme of Reclaiming the 7 Mountains of Culture. If you are called to impact culture through your marketplace calling you must understand the spiritual and the physical dimension of your assignment. This year's conference will focus on the process that God uses in the life of the leader to impact culture. You can become a change agent!

Living Free Every Day®
Today's Scripture

"Jesus Christ never changes! He is the same yesterday, today, and forever. " Hebrews 13:8 CEV

Thoughts for Today

This week we have been discussing loss-loss of job, finances, home and other possessions. These losses, especially loss of home, can result in rootedness losses. Children are especially susceptible to loss of roots that happen when their parents move to a new part of town or even to a different town. They have to give up their friends, teachers and familiar surroundings. Leaving the familiar behind and being overwhelmed by the strangeness of the new situation puts pressures on their young lives that can leave indelible marks and bring frustration for years to come.

Loss of roots can also be traumatic for adults. In the types of situations we are considering, at a time when money pressures are great and the future seems uncertain, our sense of security can be further shaken by losing our familiar surroundings and relationships.

Consider this

There is no quick or easy answer. Working our way through solutions involves a process and takes time. But throughout the process, we can take great comfort in knowing that when everything around us seems to change, Jesus never changes. We can always count on him to be there for us. We can always count on his love, his strength, his guidance, his comfort.

Look to Jesus for your security. Remind your children that even though everything and everyone around them may be new, Jesus has moved with them and will never leave them. His love and care for them (and you) will never change. Rest in him.

Prayer

Lord, it seems that everything in my life has changed. I have been frightened and confused. Thank you for reminding me that the most important things have not changed. You are still with me. You still love me and will help me through this. You will never change. In Jesus' name 

These thoughts were drawn from
Handling Loss and Grief: How to Face Losses in Life and Grieve Christianly by Raymond T. Brock, Ed.D. This study teaches participants what the Bible has to say about handling the losses of life. It offers biblical coping methods for facing loss.

Would you like to have these devotions appear daily on your church or ministry website? Learn More

PO Box 22127 ~ Chattanooga, Tennessee 37421 ~ 423-899-4770
© Living Free 2007. Living Free is a registered trademark. Living Free Every Day devotionals may be reproduced for personal use. When reproduced to share with others, please acknowledge the source as Living Free, Chattanooga, TN. Must have written permission to use in any format to be sold. Permission may be requested by sending e-mail to info@LivingFree.org.
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Do You Walk In White?
We were buried with Him . . . that just as Christ was raised from the dead . . . even so we also should walk in newness of life -Romans 6:4
No one experiences complete sanctification without going through a "white funeral"-the burial of the old life. If there has never been this crucial moment of change through death, sanctification will never be more than an elusive dream. There must be a "white funeral," a death with only one resurrection-a resurrection into the life of Jesus Christ. Nothing can defeat a life like this. It has oneness with God for only one purpose- to be a witness for Him.

Have you really come to your last days? You have often come to them in your mind, but have you really experienced them? You cannot die or go to your funeral in a mood of excitement. Death means you stop being. You must agree with God and stop being the intensely striving kind of Christian you have been. We avoid the cemetery and continually refuse our own death. It will not happen by striving, but by yielding to death. It is dying- being "baptized into His death" (Romans 6:3 ).

Have you had your "white funeral," or are you piously deceiving your own soul? Has there been a point in your life which you now mark as your last day? Is there a place in your life to which you go back in memory with humility and overwhelming gratitude, so that you can honestly proclaim, "Yes, it was then, at my 'white funeral,' that I made an agreement with God."

"This is the will of God, your sanctification . . ." (1 Thessalonians 4:3 ). Once you truly realize this is God's will, you will enter into the process of sanctification as a natural response. Are you willing to experience that "white funeral" now? Will you agree with Him that this is your last day on earth? The moment of agreement depends on you.

God Bless

[Judy Harder]

Daily Devotionals January 16, 2009

A Sin By Any Other Name
READ: Genesis 39:1-9
How then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God? -Genesis 39:9

Joseph found himself in a difficult position one day when his master's wife attempted to seduce him. How tantalizing this woman must have been to a healthy young man! And it must have occurred to Joseph how fearsome her wrath would be when he spurned her advances.

Yet Joseph flatly resisted her. His moral convictions stemmed from his clear view of sin and his reverence for God. He said to her, "How then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?" (Gen. 39:9).

Today, it is popular to call sin by more acceptable names. But using euphemisms for offenses against God will only weaken our resistance and trivialize sin's harmfulness to us.

To Joseph, sin was not just "an error of judgment." Nor was it a mere "slip of the tongue" or an "indiscretion" in a "moment of weakness." Joseph saw sin for what it was-a serious offense against the Lord-and he did not play down the gravity of the offense.

God's moral standards are absolute. It is only when we see sin as something abhorrent to the Lord that we will be motivated to make right moral judgments.

Calling sin by a softer name will change neither its offensiveness to God nor its cost to us.  - C. P. Hia

Was it for crimes that I have done
He groaned upon the tree?
Amazing pity! Grace unknown!
And love beyond degree! -Watts

There's no excuse for excusing sin.

It's Time for a Funeral
By Os Hillman

I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me (Gal 2:20).

"There's nothing wrong with you that a good funeral won't solve," I said to the woman. "I'll even send you flowers!" She smiled in response. I was speaking figuratively to the woman who was stressing out about an issue in her life.

Her problem was the same problem most of us have - too much of "us" and not enough of Jesus and the cross. Many of the daily problems in life can be solved by coming to an end of ourselves so Jesus can take over. I believe this is what the psalmist meant when he said: "Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of his saints" (Ps 116:15).

The apostle Paul recognized the need for a funeral too when he penned these words: "What shall we say, then? Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase? By no means! We died to sin; how can we live in it any longer? Or don't you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life" (Rom 6:1-4).

Whenever we stress over a matter, get angry over a daily circumstance, or seek to have our own way - it is a sign there is still life in the grave. We need to fill it with dirt and smother the life of our flesh so that Christ may live freely, unhindered by the "old" man. Send yourself some flowers today. Have a good funeral.

Contact Os Hillman at www.marketplaceleaders.org.


The Church In The Workplace Conference: Reclaim the 7 Mountains of Culture
February 6-8, 2009 Atlanta, GA
"Shout! For the Lord has given you the city" (Joshua 6:16b). This is the theme of our 2009 International Church in the Workplace Conference on the theme of Reclaiming the 7 Mountains of Culture. If you are called to impact culture through your marketplace calling you must understand the spiritual and the physical dimension of your assignment. This year's conference will focus on the process that God uses in the life of the leader to impact culture. You can become a change agent!

Living Free Every Day®
Today's Scripture

"Peace I leave with you; My [own] peace I now give and bequeath to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid. [Stop allowing yourselves to be agitated and disturbed; and do not permit yourselves to be fearful and intimidated and cowardly and unsettled.]" John 14:27 AMP

Thoughts for Today

Emotional losses are among the hardest to accept. Bankruptcy, loss of job, or foreclosure on our home can lead to a loss of status and self esteem, bringing embarrassment that never seems to go away. Shame and guilt bring alienation from others, compounded by self-blame and withdrawal from supportive relationships.

In today's scripture, Jesus was preparing his disciples for what was to come-betrayal, death, resurrection and his return to heaven. He promised peace and exhorted them not to be troubled and frightened. As his followers today, we can receive that same peace-no matter what our circumstances. No matter what has happened, we are still special to him. He still loves us and will never forsake us.

Consider this

The attitude we have toward the losses of life will either make us or break us. We need to learn that we cannot always be in control of our lives. We should learn to change the things we can change, learn to accept the things we cannot change and ask for divine guidance to know the difference.

Prayer

Father, thank you for peace, the kind of peace that passes all understanding. Help me to do as Jesus said, to put aside anxiety and fear. Help me to experience your peace. In Jesus' name

These thoughts were drawn from

Handling Loss and Grief: How to Face Losses in Life and Grieve Christianly by Raymond T. Brock, Ed.D. This study teaches participants what the Bible has to say about handling the losses of life. It offers biblical coping methods for facing loss.

Would you like to have these devotions appear daily on your church or ministry website? Learn More

 
PO Box 22127 ~ Chattanooga, Tennessee 37421 ~ 423-899-4770
© Living Free 2007. Living Free is a registered trademark. Living Free Every Day devotionals may be reproduced for personal use. When reproduced to share with others, please acknowledge the source as Living Free, Chattanooga, TN. Must have written permission to use in any format to be sold. Permission may be requested by sending e-mail to info@LivingFree.org.
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The Voice of the Nature of God


I heard the voice of the Lord, saying: 'Whom shall I send, and who will go for Us?' -Isaiah 6:8
When we talk about the call of God, we often forget the most important thing, namely, the nature of Him who calls. There are many things calling each of us today. Some of these calls will be answered, and others will not even be heard. The call is the expression of the nature of the One who calls, and we can only recognize the call if that same nature is in us. The call of God is the expression of God's nature, not ours. God providentially weaves the threads of His call through our lives, and only we can distinguish them. It is the threading of God's voice directly to us over a certain concern, and it is useless to seek another person's opinion of it. Our dealings over the call of God should be kept exclusively between ourselves and Him.

The call of God is not a reflection of my nature; my personal desires and temperament are of no consideration. As long as I dwell on my own qualities and traits and think about what I am suited for, I will never hear the call of God. But when God brings me into the right relationship with Himself, I will be in the same condition Isaiah was. Isaiah was so attuned to God, because of the great crisis he had just endured, that the call of God penetrated his soul. The majority of us cannot hear anything but ourselves. And we cannot hear anything God says. But to be brought to the place where we can hear the call of God is to be profoundly changed.

God Bless

[Judy Harder]

Crosswalk the Devotional - Jan. 16, 2009


 
January 16, 2009

Vengeance is Not Mine
by Laura MacCorkle, Crosswalk.com Senior Entertainment Editor

Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: "It is mine to avenge; I will repay," says the Lord. On the contrary: "If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head." Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
Romans 12:19-21, NIV

Vengeance is not mine. It's not yours. And it's certainly not Clint Eastwood's.

Thankfully, I already knew all of this before I watched his latest film, Gran Torino. And so this fact was merely reinforced as a result. I wouldn't recommend seeing Gran Torino, though, as it is the same old tired formula of a tough guy trying to right some wrongs (see our full review at Crosswalk right here). 

Also, there's a load of "colorful" language, racism and gang violence to wade through before getting to the heart of the story of a man who goes to great lengths to help his friends (and has good intentions, for the most part), but oversteps his bounds into vengeance. That being said, I am still thinking about this movie and the concept of repaying. One of the lines in our review sums up what I'm still processing:

[Gran Torino] gives audiences a loveable rascal in Eastwood's character, and allows a flawed, racist man to be the instrument of change in the life of a young man in need of direction.

Instrument of change. Is that what Paul means in Romans 12? If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. I think so, because if you've ever been kind and tried to reach out to your enemy, then you know that there is definitely some change going on there (for both parties). And it's unexpected change, too. Your enemy usually never sees it coming and doesn't really know what to think. Especially when it feels like someone is heaping burning coals on his head. 

I did a little research on that. Isn't it not very nice to make someone feel like hot things are being dumped on him or her? One Bible commentary I read through said that this phrase may refer to an Egyptian ritual where people carried around pans of burning charcoal on their heads to show their repentance. So, in essence, showing kindness to our enemies could lead to them feeling ashamed and penitent. A change of heart, perhaps.

So, it's about reaching out and basically providing nourishment for our enemies. Sounds easy enough, but if you've ever tried to do so then you know how hard it really is. Think of your worst enemy right now. We all have one in this world. Could be a family member. Could be a coworker. Maybe it's your neighbor or someone at your church. Anyone who has wronged you and for whom you hold contempt.

How can you be an "instrument of change" in his or her life when they've caused destruction or pain or grief or distress in yours? If you're honest, you don't really want to, right? Because it's easier for you, for me, to be overcome by evil than to overcome evil with good. We are flawed, and our flesh wants to repay! But the Lord says, "Leave that to me. I will take care of it." And he is calling us instead to love and pray for our enemies (Matthew 5:44).

Perhaps taking a baby step is all that you can muster today. This week. Or this month. Maybe just by sitting near this enemy at the lunch table. At church. In a business meeting. What would be a good first step for you to take to help build a bridge with this person? Maybe it means you just start with a "Hello. How are you?" Acknowledge his or her presence. Start chipping away at the wall. And begin a dialogue.

Sometimes we'd rather heap the burning coals on our own heads than to love our worst enemies. But God can help us overcome. Through the cross, we are reconciled to him (Romans 5:10).

We are no longer his enemies, and by his example we can learn to reach out in love to others.

Intersecting Faith & Life: Ponder these lyrics from Point of Grace's song, "The Great Divide" and consider how Christ overcame evil and reached out to you ...

Silence, trying to fathom the distance
Looking out 'cross the canyon carved by my hands
God is gracious
Sin would still separate us
Were it not for the bridge His grace has made us
His love will carry me

CHORUS:
There's a bridge to cross the great divide
A way was made to reach the other side
The mercy of the Father cost His Son his life
His love is deep, His love is wide
There's a cross to bridge the great divide

God is faithful; on my own I'm unable
He found me hopeless, alone,
and sent a Savior
He's provided
a path and promised to guide us
safely past all the sin that would divide us
His love delivers me

Further Reading

Leviticus 19:18, NIV
Ephesians 4:32, NIV

God Bless

[Judy Harder]

Daily Devotionals January 18, 2009

Wonderfully Made
READ: Psalm 139:7-16
I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. -Psalm 139:14

A quote in George MacDonald's book David Elginbrod speaks to those who wonder, at times, why God has made them the way they are-and who wish they were someone else.

Lady Emily muses: "I wish I were you, Margaret."

Margaret answers: "If I were you, my lady, I would rather be what God chose to make me than the most glorious creature that I could think of. For to have been thought about-born in God's thoughts-and then made by God, is the dearest, grandest, most precious thing in all thinking."

MacDonald may have had Psalm 139:17 in mind: "How precious . . . are Your thoughts to me, O God!" In this psalm, David is thinking about his conception, and vividly describes God's thoughts as He wove him together in his mother's womb, creating a unique and special individual to be the object of His love.

It's a comforting thought to know that we're not a terrible mistake, but a very special creation, "born in God's thoughts." David could stand before a mirror and say in all honesty and humility: "I am fearfully and wonderfully made; marvelous are Your works" (v.14).

You are a designer original! As such, you are dear, grand, and precious to God.  - David H. Roper

Of all creation's treasures rare,
Not one compares in worth with man;
In God's own image he was made
To fill a place in His great plan. -D. De Haan


You are one of a kind-designed to glorify God as only you can.

Overcoming Life's Monotony

Consider for a moment an average person in an average home who wakes up early in the morning to beat everyone into the shower so that he can get ready and get on the road to get to work on time. He works hard all day and then jumps back into the car to beat the traffic home, so he can sit down to eat and watch television. He sets his alarm and goes to bed so he can begin the whole process all over again. Does this life sound familiar?

In the Old Testament book of Ecclesiastes, King Solomon says that there is nothing new under the sun. There is monotony, he writes, and there is boredom in our lives. But a life lived with God, in fellowship with Him, under His authority, is a life of joy and fulfillment. All humans can live a life of emptiness, boredom, and meaninglessness living without God, or they can experience a life full of joy, excitement, and contentment when they live it with Him. 

Throughout Ecclesiastes, Solomon warns us saying, "Please, do not go where I went. Please, be forewarned about living your life the wrong way. Learn from my failures, and do not make the mistakes I have made. Live in fellowship with God. Live under the authority of God." He says the temptations we will face in life are not worth the trouble they will cause, and cautions us against falling prey to them. Much of our worldly pursuits in life will bring us nothing but emptiness, misery, and disappointment. A life without God's leading is a life without purpose and meaning.

But thanks to God, there is a better way! A life that is lived in fellowship with God, a life lived under the authority of the Word of God, a life which is lived by the principles given to us in the Word-that life will be meaningful. That sort of life will be purposeful. That life will be joyful and fulfilling. That life will be a blessing to you and to others. Most importantly, that life will be a blessing to God.

The good news is that those who are experiencing a personal relationship with the Son of God will not only find contentment in this life-they will know with all assurance that the day is coming when they will have perfect knowledge, perfect bodies, perfect memories, and perfect stamina. And the reason that they can have this full life is that they know who they are and to Whom they belong. They know their purpose for living and they know their ultimate destination.

Are you experiencing emptiness, drudgery, or monotony? You can change direction, and you can do it today. You can begin a life of meaning, a life full of purpose, a life with the absolute and perfect assurance of your ultimate and eternal destination. If that is your desire, then you can say to the Lord, "Lord, I am tired of living a life of emptiness and monotony. I want to live a life of purpose; I want to live my life for You and for Your Kingdom." And God will answer that prayer-of that you can be sure. In His time, you will begin to live a life full of joy, peace, fulfillment, and contentment. Only God, His truths, His purpose, and His Word can give your life the meaning you have always wanted.

***

In a world gone mad with relativism and political correctness... What can we do to ignite spiritual renewal in our lives and in our churches? Read the passion Michael Youssef has for this subject in our free resource-"We Preach Christ." Download it today.

By Passionately Proclaiming Uncompromising Truth, Leading The Way is revolutionizing lives at home and around the world. Discover more at www.leadingtheway.org.

The Awaited One
by Max Lucado

We were a wreath of Light around the stable, a necklace of diamonds around the structure. Every angel had been called from his post for the coming, even Michael. None doubted God would, but none knew how He could, fulfill his promise.

I've heated the water!"

"No need to yell, Joseph I hear you fine."

Mary would have heard had Joseph whispered. The stable was even smaller than Joseph had imagined but the innkeeper was right- it was clean. I started to clear out the sheep and cow, but Michael stopped me. "The Father wants all of creation to witness the moment."

Mary cried out and gripped Joseph's arm with one hand and a feed trough with the other. The thrust in her abdomen lifted her back, and she leaned forward.

"Is it time?" Joseph asked.

She shot back a glance, and he had his answer.

Within moments the Awaited One was born. I was privileged to have a position close to the couple, only a step behind Michael. We both gazed into the wrinkled face of the infant. Joseph had placed hay in a feed trough, giving Jesus his first bed.

All of God was in the infant. Light encircled His face and radiated from His tiny hands. The very glory I had witnessed in His throne room now burst through His skin.

I felt we should sing but did not know what. We had no song. We had no verse. We had never seen the sight of God in a baby. When God had made a star, our words had roared. When He had delivered His servants, our tongues had flown with praise. Before His throne, our songs never ended. But what do you sing to God in a feed trough?

In that moment a wonderful thing happened. As we looked at the baby Jesus, the darkness lifted. Not the darkness of the night, but the darkness of the mystery. Heaven's enlightenment engulfed the legions.

Our minds were filled with the Truth we had never before known. We became aware for the first time of the Father's plan to rescue those who bear His name.

From An Angel's Story
(originally published as Cosmic Christmas)
Copyright (Thomas Nelson Publishers, 2002, 2004) Max Lucado

"It Is the Lord!"
Thomas answered and said to Him, 'My Lord and my God!' -John 20:28
Jesus said to her, 'Give Me a drink' " (John 4:7). How many of us are expecting Jesus Christ to quench our thirst when we should be satisfying Him! We should be pouring out our lives, investing our total beings, not drawing on Him to satisfy us. "You shall be witnesses to Me . . ." (Acts 1:. That means lives of pure, uncompromising, and unrestrained devotion to the Lord Jesus, which will be satisfying to Him wherever He may send us.

Beware of anything that competes with your loyalty to Jesus Christ. The greatest competitor of true devotion to Jesus is the service we do for Him. It is easier to serve than to pour out our lives completely for Him. The goal of the call of God is His satisfaction, not simply that we should do something for Him. We are not sent to do battle for God, but to be used by God in His battles. Are we more devoted to service than we are to Jesus Christ Himself?


God Bless

[Judy Harder]

Daily Devotionals January 19, 2009

Impossible?
READ: Matthew 5:38-42
You have heard that it was said, "An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth." But I tell you not to resist an evil person. -Matthew 5:38-39

When Nobel Chairman Gunnar John delivered his presentation speech for Martin Luther King's 1964 Peace Prize, he quoted Jesus: "Whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also" (Matt. 5:39). As Mr. John noted: "It was not because he led a racial minority in their struggle for equality that Martin Luther King achieved fame. . . . [His] name will endure for the way in which he has waged his struggle."

In 1955, King had led a year-long, peaceful boycott to protest segregation on buses. He paid a high price. His home was bombed, and he was assaulted and arrested. He never retaliated. Eventually he was murdered.

How contrary Dr. King's peaceful example stands to my fleshly nature! I want justice now. I want retribution. I want others to pay for their wrongdoing, especially when it's directed at me. What I do not want is to turn the other cheek and invite them to take another swing.

Haddon Robinson comments on the lofty standards Jesus set forth in the Sermon on the Mount (Matt. 5-7), calling them "goals . . . not impossible ideals. [Jesus] wants His disciples to strive toward these goals to master a new kind of life."

Amid the injustices of life, may we have the courage, faith, and strength to turn the other cheek.  - Tim Gustafson

So send I you to hearts made hard by hatred,
To eyes made blind because they will not see,
To spend-though it be blood-to spend and spare not-
So send I you to taste of Calvary. -Clarkson
1968 Singspiration.

It takes true strength to refuse to retaliate.

Living Free Every Day®
Today's Scripture

"You must not have any other god but me." Exodus 20:3 NLT

Thoughts for Today

The Ten Commandments deal with our relationship with God and with others. The bottom line is love. Each of these commandments holds a great deal of meaning for our lives today.

Today's scripture is the first of the Ten Commandments. It calls for an undivided faithfulness to God. Because we have been created in God's image, this relationship is at the very core of human need and affects everyone.

"Other gods" usually brings to mind a wooden or stone image-or the proclaimed god of another religion. But there are more subtle "other gods." Anything that takes our focus off Christ anything that we devote more time and attention and allegiance to than Jesus can become our other god. It might be money or sports or sex. It could be our job, a relationship or even working in a ministry.

Consider this

It is so easy to be sidetracked, sometimes even doing good things, that we let our personal relationship with the Lord suffer. A periodic reality check can be enlightening. Am I asking God for guidance or doing my own thing. Am I trusting in my job, or another person, or my own abilities more than I am trusting in the Lord?

If you find that you have wandered off the path, begin to refocus on Jesus.

Prayer

Lord, forgive me for sometimes getting sidetracked and making other things or people a more important part of my life than you are. Help me to refocus on Jesus. In His name

These thoughts were drawn from

The Ten Commandments: Applying the Foundations of Living to My Personal Life by Jimmy Ray Lee, D.Min. Knowing that there are absolutes that define moral conduct and ethical decisions is essential for believers surrounded by relativistic values. This guide helps us understand God's boundaries. It shows how the Ten Commandments apply today. It also discusses the biblical laws on which the legal codes of every civilized society are based. This guide is written in a way that helps people see the Ten Commandments in light of today's problems. Note: This curriculum was written especially for small groups, and we encourage people to use it that way. However, it can also be used effectively as a personal study for individuals or couples.

Would you like to have these devotions appear daily on your church or ministry website? Learn More

 
PO Box 22127 ~ Chattanooga, Tennessee 37421 ~ 423-899-4770
© Living Free 2007. Living Free is a registered trademark. Living Free Every Day devotionals may be reproduced for personal use. When reproduced to share with others, please acknowledge the source as Living Free, Chattanooga, TN. Must have written permission to use in any format to be sold. Permission may be requested by sending e-mail to info@LivingFree.org.

Lost Donkeys
By Os Hillman

"Now the donkeys belonging to Saul's father Kish were lost" (1 Sam 9:3).

God used adversity to call the first king of Israel. In 1 Samuel 9 and 10, we find Saul working in the family business, employed by his father, Kish. In Bible times, donkeys represented trade and commerce, for they were the primary means of transporting goods.

Some of Kish's donkeys were missing, so Kish told his son Saul to take a servant with him and go find the missing donkeys. Saul and the servant traveled the countryside three days in search of the missing donkeys - but without results. Saul thought his father might worry about him, so he told the servant, "Let's go back."

The servant replied, "Look, in this town there's a man of God, a prophet. Let's go see him and maybe he will tell us which way to take." In today's terminology, it was time to call in a consultant.

So Saul and the servant went through the town and the prophet - a man named Samuel - was walking toward them along the street. As Samuel walked toward Saul, God told the prophet, "The man who is approaching is the one I told you about. He will be the leader of My people."

Saul stopped Samuel in the street and said, "Sir, would you please tell me how to find the house of the prophet?"

"I'm the prophet you're looking for," Samuel replied. "Today you'll have dinner with me and tomorrow I'll tell you everything that is in your heart."

Saul's pathway to leadership led through the experience of a business setback: a missing herd of donkeys. God arranged every step of Saul's journey.

It was God who sent the donkeys away, which made it necessary for Saul to go searching for them. When Saul was ready to give up the search, God arranged for the servant to suggest that they look for a prophet in a nearby city. The Lord spoke to the prophet and told him to expect Saul's arrival. There was not a single detail left to chance. God's plan worked flawlessly.

So it is in your life and mine. God is in control of every detail in your life.

Contact Os Hillman at www.marketplaceleaders.org.

The Church In The Workplace Conference: Reclaim the 7 Mountains of Culture
February 6-8, 2009 Atlanta, GA
"Shout! For the Lord has given you the city" (Joshua 6:16b). This is the theme of our 2009 International Church in the Workplace Conference on the theme of Reclaiming the 7 Mountains of Culture. If you are called to impact culture through your marketplace calling you must understand the spiritual and the physical dimension of your assignment. This year's conference will focus on the process that God uses in the life of the leader to impact culture. You can become a change agent!
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Vision and Darkness

When the sun was going down, a deep sleep fell upon Abram; and behold, horror and great darkness fell upon him -Genesis 15:12
Whenever God gives a vision to a Christian, it is as if He puts him in "the shadow of His hand" (Isaiah 49:2). The saint's duty is to be still and listen. There is a "darkness" that comes from too much light-that is the time to listen. The story of Abram and Hagar in Genesis 16 is an excellent example of listening to so-called good advice during a time of darkness, rather than waiting for God to send the light. When God gives you a vision and darkness follows, wait. God will bring the vision He has given you to reality in your life if you will wait on His timing. Never try to help God fulfill His word. Abram went through thirteen years of silence, but in those years all of his self-sufficiency was destroyed. He grew past the point of relying on his own common sense. Those years of silence were a time of discipline, not a period of God's displeasure. There is never any need to pretend that your life is filled with joy and confidence; just wait upon God and be grounded in Him (see Isaiah 50:10-11 ).

Do I trust at all in the flesh? Or have I learned to go beyond all confidence in myself and other people of God? Do I trust in books and prayers or other joys in my life? Or have I placed my confidence in God Himself, not in His blessings? "I am Almighty God . . ."- El-Shaddai, the All-Powerful God (Genesis 17:1). The reason we are all being disciplined is that we will know God is real. As soon as God becomes real to us, people pale by comparison, becoming shadows of reality. Nothing that other saints do or say can ever upset the one who is built on God.

God Bless

[Judy Harder]

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Daily Devotionals January 20, 2009
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Protocol
READ: James 1:1-8
Let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the
sea driven and tossed by the wind. -James 1:6

If you were invited to a meeting at the White House with the President of the United
States, regardless of your opinion of him or her, you would probably go. Upon entering
the White House, a protocol officer would meet you and outline the proper procedures
for meeting the President. Suffice it to say, it would be unacceptable to let loose
with a burst of undignified familiarity or negative criticism as you shook hands.

So it should come as no surprise that God's Word makes it clear that there is a
protocol for entering the presence of God. Hebrews 11:6 outlines one aspect of
appropriate
interaction: "He who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder
of those who diligently seek Him." God wants us to be fully devoted to Him-and He
takes it personally when our hearts are filled with criticism, unbelief, and doubt.

James tells us that when we ask God for wisdom, the key to His response is whether
or not we are asking "in faith" (1:6). God is pleased when we approach Him with
unwavering faith.

So leave your doubt at the door and follow the protocol: Approach God with a heart
of faith, and He will be pleased to provide all the wisdom you need.  - Joe Stowell

God, give me the faith of a little child!
A faith that will look to Thee-
That never will falter and never fail,
But follow Thee trustingly. -Showerman

Exchange the dissatisfaction of doubt for the fulfillment of faith in God.
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His Work, His Way
By Os Hillman

"So I have caused you to be despised and humiliated before all the people, because
you have not followed my ways but have shown partiality in matters of the law" (Mal
2:9).

My work, My way - When you and I live in this world without Christ we live a life
just as Esau lived his life. Esau despised his birthright and failed to enter into
a relationship with God that allowed him to fulfill his destiny. In essence, Esau
fulfilled his work, his way. His life represented the carnal life of the flesh.

His work, my way - When you and I become born-again by the Spirit of God, we begin
to focus our attention on living for Christ. We realize it is His work we are doing
but it takes time before we learn what it means to do His work, His way.

My work, His way - As the Holy Spirit does His work in us, we learn to walk with
God. We learn what it means to see our work as His work and we desire to do it
His way. The Israelites were guilty of not knowing His ways and were unable to move
into the Promised Land because of not understanding how to do Their work, His ways.

His work, His way - When we begin to walk with God we begin to realize that all
that we do is His work and He calls us to do it His way. When we begin to walk with
God in this manner we begin to see the Kingdom of God manifested in our working
lives. We begin to experience His power and learn what it means to do His work,
His way.

In order to experience God in this way, each of us must give our working lives to
the Lord and ask him to teach us His way. Moses asked God: "If you are pleased with
me, teach me your ways so I may know you and continue to find favor with you" (Ex
33:12). Moses realized He needed God to teach him His ways in order for him to prosper
in His relationship with God.

What best describes your life today? Your work, your way; Your work, His way; His
work, your way; or His work, His way? Pray that you learn to do His work, His way.



The Church In The Workplace Conference: Reclaim the 7 Mountains of Culture
February 6-8, 2009 Atlanta, GA
"Shout! For the Lord has given you the city" (Joshua 6:16b). This is the theme of
our 2009 International Church in the Workplace Conference on the theme of Reclaiming
the 7 Mountains of Culture. If you are called to impact culture through your
marketplace
calling you must understand the spiritual and the physical dimension of your
assignment.
This year's conference will focus on the process that God uses in the life of the
leader to impact culture. You can become a change agent!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Living Free Every Day®
Today's Scripture

"You shall not make for yourself an idol in the form of anything in heaven above
or on the earth beneath or in the waters below." Exodus 20:4 NIV

Thoughts for Today

This is the second of the Ten Commandments and shows that we are to worship only
God. God forbids us to worship or use created things or even creation itself as
an approach to him. The only correct image of God to worship is his son, Jesus
Christ. Not trees or flowers or animals or land. Not statues or monuments or
traditions.
Only Jesus.

We should have no God-substitutes. When we look to anyone or anything other than
Christ as our primary source of meaning, self-worth, comfort or fulfillment, we
are in danger of having an idol in our lives. An idol is anything that we depend
on for solutions that only God can provide. Three common types of idols are substances,
behaviors and relationships that control our lives.

Consider this

God doesn't want us to serve idols because he loves us and knows what is best for
us. Let us come before him daily, seeking his will and his plan for our lives. Let
us worship Jesus.

Prayer

Lord, forgive me for trying to find comfort ... solutions happiness in things or
activities or relationships. Although you may use some of these things or people
to enrich my life and to help me, I know that you are the source of all good things.
Help me to never again depend on a substitute. In Jesus' name

These thoughts were drawn from

The Ten Commandments: Applying the Foundations of Living to My Personal Life

by Jimmy Ray Lee, D.Min. Knowing that there are absolutes that define moral conduct
and ethical decisions is essential for believers surrounded by relativistic values.
This guide helps us understand God's boundaries. It shows how the Ten Commandments
apply today. It also discusses the biblical laws on which the legal codes of every
civilized society are based. This guide is written in a way that helps people see
the Ten Commandments in light of today's problems. Note: This curriculum was written
especially for small groups, and we encourage people to use it that way. However,
it can also be used effectively as a personal study for individuals or couples.

Would you like to have these devotions appear daily on your church or ministry website?
Learn More

PO Box 22127 ~ Chattanooga, Tennessee 37421 ~ 423-899-4770
© Living Free 2007. Living Free is a registered trademark. Living Free Every Day
devotionals may be reproduced for personal use. When reproduced to share with others,
please acknowledge the source as Living Free, Chattanooga, TN. Must have written
permission to use in any format to be sold. Permission may be requested by sending
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Are You Fresh for Everything?
Jesus answered and said to him, 'Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born
again, he cannot see the kingdom of God' -John 3:3

Sometimes we are fresh and eager to attend a prayer meeting, but do we feel that
same freshness for such mundane tasks as polishing shoes?

Being born again by the Spirit is an unmistakable work of God, as mysterious as
the wind, and as surprising as God Himself. We don't know where it begins- it is
hidden away in the depths of our soul. Being born again from above is an enduring,
perpetual, and eternal beginning. It provides a freshness all the time in thinking,
talking, and living- a continual surprise of the life of God. Staleness is an
indication
that something in our lives is out of step with God. We say to ourselves, "I have
to do this thing or it will never get done." That is the first sign of staleness.
Do we feel fresh this very moment or are we stale, frantically searching our minds
for something to do? Freshness is not the result of obedience; it comes from the
Holy Spirit. Obedience keeps us "in the light as He is in the light . . ." (1 John
1:7


Jealously guard your relationship with God. Jesus prayed "that they may be one just
as We are one"-with nothing in between (John 17:22

Keep your whole life continually open to Jesus Christ. Don't pretend to be open
with Him. Are you drawing your life from any source other than God Himself? If you
are depending on something else as your source of freshness and strength, you will
not realize when His power is gone.

Being born of the Spirit means much more than we usually think. It gives us new
vision and keeps us absolutely fresh for everything through the never-ending supply
of the life of God.

God Bless
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