Devotional for the day

[Judy Harder]

Today's Verse For Sunday, March 16

'No one lights a lamp and hides it in a jar or puts it under a bed. Instead, he puts it on a stand, so that those who come in can see the light. For there is nothing hidden that will not be disclosed, and nothing concealed that will not be known or brought out into the open. Therefore consider carefully how you listen. Whoever has will be given more; whoever does not have, even what he thinks he has will be taken from him.' Luke 8:16-18 NIV

March 16, 2008
What Changed?

READ: Matthew 21:1-11
Behold, your King is coming to you. —Matthew 21:5Jesus put a damper on His own party. On Sunday, He entered Jerusalem as the triumphant king, welcomed into the city by throngs of worshipers shouting, "Hosanna!" and honoring Him by waving palm branches. The healer of the sick and the giver of great wisdom had come, and the masses adored Him.

What went wrong that week? What changed the "Hosannas" to "Crucify Him"? It started to go bad when Jesus told the people what they didn't want to hear. Look at what He did. He threw the money changers out of the temple area (Matt. 21:12). He taught that tax collectors and prostitutes could enter the kingdom of heaven before the religious (21:31). He told the people to pay taxes (22:21). Then He pronounced a series of woes against the religious leaders: "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees" (23:13-31).

But this is Jesus. The righteous One. The only perfect Man. God in the flesh. He was not in town for a popularity contest. His task was to proclaim the truth and provide salvation. And it cost Him His life.

Think about Jesus' up-and-down week in Jerusalem. Then praise Him for His perfection and His love—love that took Him all the way to the cross.  — Dave Branon

Jesus, Thou art my righteousness,
For all my sins were Thine;
Thy death hath bought of God my peace,
Thy life hath made Him mine.  —Anon.
The nail-pierced hands of Jesus reveal the love-filled heart of God.


God Bless

[Judy Harder]

Daily Devotionals March 17, 2008

Inside Out
READ: Mark 7:9-23
Out of the heart of men proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, . . . blasphemy, pride, foolishness. -Mark 7:21-22
Shopping for a melon is a tough assignment. No matter how good it looks, it's hard to tell! So I tap it, thump it, and, if no one is looking, squeeze it-and then take it home, only to discover that it's bad on the inside.

When the Pharisees were irritated that Jesus' disciples did not wash their hands before eating-a violation of one of their traditions-Jesus immediately challenged them. "All too well you reject the commandment of God, that you may keep your tradition" (Mark 7:9). He even called them "hypocrites" and explained that what comes from the inside of a person is what "defiles" him, not the other way around.

If we're not careful, we can become absorbed with looking good on the outside and forget what really counts. In fact, when we get to the place where we are keeping all the "right" rules, we may become proud of ourselves and judgmental toward others. But harboring bitterness, clinging to critical attitudes, and thinking too highly of ourselves are the kind of defiling stuff that make us guilty of Jesus' charge of "hypocrite."

So don't miss the point. Remember, it's the things on the inside-your heart, your thoughts, your attitudes-that really matter.  - Joe Stowell

What matters to Jesus is what's on the inside.

Listen, Learn, Live by Tony Beckett and Woodrow Kroll

Deuteronomy 30-31, Mark 15:1-25
Key Verse: Deuteronomy 31:11

The attempts of children to answer questions about the Bible can be cute. Names and events get switched around and blended. In their innocence and youthfulness, their statements often bring a smile to one's face.

The expectation is that with growth, their childish mistakes will be replaced with Christian maturity and understanding. But that does not happen automatically. Growing older physically is no guarantee of maturing spiritually.

The emphasis in Deuteronomy 31:11 on reading aloud the Word of God is set in a time in which oral teaching was critical. Today there is easy access to the printed Word. While times have changed in that regard, the truth of verses 11-13 remains.

People need to listen to, learn and live the Word of God. We must live in accordance with the lessons learned from the Bible.

Moses also emphasized the need to pass God's Word to the next generation. Verse 13 says that "their children, who do not know this law, must hear it and learn to fear the LORD your God."

None of this is automatic. Each of us must listen to and learn the Word of God so we may live it. Then, we must pass His truth on to the next generation.

What are you doing to pass along God's truth to the next generation? Think hard about this and pray about what else you should be doing.

Living Free Every Day®
Today's Scripture
We have everything we need to live a life that pleases God. It was all given to us by God's own power, when we learned that he had invited us to share in his wonderful goodness. 2 Peter 1:3 CEV

Thoughts for Today
Millions of people around the world suffer from clinical depression. If you or a loved one is struggling with depression, it is important for you to know that God cares about the pain that depression causes and that he brings hope.

It is common for people with depression to feel that God's promises of hope are for others but not for them. They may feel left out of life by God. But God's promises are true for everyone who has received Jesus.

Today's scripture tells us that we have everything we need to live a life that pleases God. The Greek word used here does not just mean staying alive as a biological creature, but rather a fulfilled spiritual life that changes our thoughts and actions in the direction of contentment and godliness. This includes a life filled with faith. This includes a life brimming with hope.

Consider this
God has provided everything we need to live a life that pleases him, to grow in a contentment and godliness. You might not feel the truth of that promise-but God's promises are true, no matter what we feel. Ask him to help you step beyond your feelings and believe that his promises are true for you.

Prayer
Father, I thank you for providing everything I need to live a life that pleases you. Actually, I'm feeling pretty worthless right now and don't really see the truth of this promise in my life. Help me to stop trusting my feelings, and to begin trusting you and your promises. In Jesus' name 

These thoughts were drawn fromUnderstanding Depression: Overcoming Despair through Christ by Donald G. Miles, Ed.D. This study deals with depression, a condition common throughout the world, and addresses these issues:

·         Understanding what depression is and how it affects relationships 

·         Understanding the relationship between depression and spiritual warfare 

·         Ways to fight depression with scripture, prayer and mutual support 

·         Understanding the special prayer needs of depressed persons 

·         Bible-based coping skills 

·         How to pray for healing and what to expect 

·         Serves as a powerful evangelistic tool by providing a way to minister to people's felt needs and then lead them to Christ

This study is recommended for use in support groups and Christian counseling. For more on this topic, visit LivingFreeRadio.org.   

 

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.

The Servant's Primary Goal

We make it our aim . . . to be well pleasing to Him -2 Corinthians 5:9
We make it our aim. . . ." It requires a conscious decision and effort to keep our primary goal constantly in front of us. It means holding ourselves to the highest priority year in and year out; not making our first priority to win souls, or to establish churches, or to have revivals, but seeking only "to be well pleasing to Him." It is not a lack of spiritual experience that leads to failure, but a lack of working to keep our eyes focused and on the right goal. At least once a week examine yourself before God to see if your life is measuring up to the standard He has for you. Paul was like a musician who gives no thought to audience approval, if he can only catch a look of approval from his Conductor.

Any goal we have that diverts us even to the slightest degree from the central goal of being "approved to God" ( 2 Timothy 2:15 ) may result in our rejection from further service for Him. When you discern where the goal leads, you will understand why it is so necessary to keep "looking unto Jesus" ( Hebrews 12:2 ). Paul spoke of the importance of controlling his own body so that it would not take him in the wrong direction. He said, "I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest . . . I myself should become disqualified" ( 1 Corinthians 9:27 ).

I must learn to relate everything to the primary goal, maintaining it without interruption. My worth to God publicly is measured by what I really am in my private life. Is my primary goal in life to please Him and to be acceptable to Him, or is it something less, no matter how lofty it may sound?


God bless 

[Judy Harder]

Daily Devotionals March 18, 2008

So Others May Live

READ: Romans 9:1-5
I could wish that I myself were accursed from Christ for my brethren, my countrymen according to the flesh. -Romans 9:3
In the film The Guardian, the viewer is taken into the world of United States Coast Guard rescue swimmers. Eighteen weeks of intense training prepares these courageous men and women for the task of jumping from helicopters to rescue those in danger at sea. The challenges they face include hypothermia and death by drowning. Why would people risk so much for strangers? The answer is found in the rescue swimmer's motto, "So Others May Live."

In Foxe's Book of Martyrs, we read of a different kind of rescue that demanded extreme commitment and sacrifice. John Foxe records the stories of believers who suffered and died be-cause they proclaimed the love of Jesus. Knowing it could cost them their lives, these believers made the Savior known to a world in desperate need of Him.

The apostle Paul, himself a martyr for Christ, expressed his passion for the hearts of people this way, "I could wish that I myself were accursed from Christ for my brethren, my countrymen according to the flesh" (Rom. 9:3). Paul so longed for his fellow Jews to come to Christ that he was willing to sacrifice all, "so others may live."

May we likewise embrace this passion for the eternal souls of men and women.  - Bill Crowder

Rescue the perishing, duty demands it-
Strength for thy labor the Lord will provide;
Back to the narrow way patiently win them,
Tell the poor wanderer a Savior has died.  -Crosby

The cross reveals God's heart for the lost.
 
They Spoke Better Than They Knew By Tony Beckett and Woodrow Kroll

Deuteronomy 32-34, Mark 15:26-47
Key Verses: Mark 15:31-32

It's an odd thing that we can say one thing and mean another. Sometimes people speak better than they know.

In their mockery, the religious leaders spoke better than they knew when they challenged Jesus to save Himself from the cross (vv. 31-32). They said the right thing. If Jesus were to fulfill His messianic mission, He could not save Himself. His death was necessary for man's redemption.

But their words carried the wrong meaning. In their minds, Jesus was powerless to save. They knew He had healed others, but now since He was staying on the cross, they said that He could not save Himself.

These were the right words, but with the wrong meaning. Jesus is not powerless to save, nor is He unwilling. The nails did not hold Him fast to the cross. It was love-a love as hard as nails. Had He saved Himself from death, He could not have saved others from something more deadly than storms or illnesses. By His suffering, death and resurrection, Jesus taught us to "take up" the cross, not to come down from one.

Many people say the right words about Jesus but do not grasp the real meaning. Do you? Do you truly understand that Jesus had to stay on the cross?

If you have never received Jesus as your Savior, pray to do so now. If you have, thank Him for staying on that cross until His work on our behalf was finished.

Living Free - Mar. 18, 2008

Living Free Every Day®
Today's Scripture
"Finally, my friends, keep your minds on whatever is true, pure, right, holy, friendly, and proper. Don't ever stop thinking about what is truly worthwhile and worthy of praise. You know the teachings I gave you, and you know what you heard me say and saw me do. So follow my example. And God, who gives peace, will be with you.' Phil 4:8-9 CEV

Thoughts for Today
It is often easier to see the dark side rather than the hopeful side of things. Easier to despair about a situation than to face it with faith and hope. Easier to see other people's faults than their virtues. Easier to complain than to speak positive words. Easier to see our problems than our blessings. Easier to see our failures than our strengths. This tendency is usually accentuated in the lives of people struggling with depression. They tend to experience increased irritability and anger and a deep sense of worthlessness.

Today's scripture tells us to focus on the positive, the good. To always think about what is truly worthwhile and worthy of praise. And the God of peace will be with us.

Consider this Have you been focusing on your problems? Begin to name all the blessings in your life. Write them down. Speak them aloud. Thank God for them.

Have you been dwelling on your failures and seeing yourself as worthless? Remember that you are precious to God. Jesus loved you enough to die for you. He has created you for a good purpose and given you the gifts and means to fulfill that purpose. You are important to him.

Prayer
Father, forgive me for being so negative. Help me to have a more positive perspective concerning situations, relationships  and especially concerning myself. Help me to focus on what is truly worthwhile and worthy of praise. As I do this, I pray that you will fill me with your peace. In Jesus' name 

These thoughts were drawn from
Understanding Depression: Overcoming Despair through Christ by Donald G. Miles, Ed.D. This study deals with depression, a condition common throughout the world, and addresses these issues:

·         Understanding what depression is and how it affects relationships 

·         Understanding the relationship between depression and spiritual warfare 

·         Ways to fight depression with scripture, prayer and mutual support 

·         Understanding the special prayer needs of depressed persons 

·         Bible-based coping skills 

·         How to pray for healing and what to expect 

·         Serves as a powerful evangelistic tool by providing a way to minister to people's felt needs and then lead them to Christ

This study is recommended for use in support groups and Christian counseling. For more on this topic, visit LivingFreeRadio.org.   

 

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.

Will I Bring Myself Up to This Level?
:
. . . perfecting holiness in the fear of God -2 Corinthians 7:1
Therefore, having these promises. . . ." I claim God's promises for my life and look to their fulfillment, and rightly so, but that shows only the human perspective on them. God's perspective is that through His promises I will come to recognize His claim of ownership on me. For example, do I realize that my "body is the temple of the Holy Spirit," or am I condoning some habit in my body which clearly could not withstand the light of God on it? (1 Corinthians 6:19 ). God formed His Son in me through sanctification, setting me apart from sin and making me holy in His sight (see Galatians 4:19 ). But I must begin to transform my natural life into spiritual life by obedience to Him. God instructs us even in the smallest details of life. And when He brings you conviction of sin, do not "confer with flesh and blood," but cleanse yourself from it at once ( Galatians 1:16 ). Keep yourself cleansed in your daily walk.

I must cleanse myself from all filthiness in my flesh and my spirit until both are in harmony with the nature of God. Is the mind of my spirit in perfect agreement with the life of the Son of God in me, or am I mentally rebellious and defiant? Am I allowing the mind of Christ to be formed in me? (see Philippians 2:5 ). Christ never spoke of His right to Himself, but always maintained an inner vigilance to submit His spirit continually to His Father. I also have the responsibility to keep my spirit in agreement with His Spirit. And when I do, Jesus gradually lifts me up to the level where He lived-a level of perfect submission to His Father's will- where I pay no attention to anything else. Am I perfecting this kind of holiness in the fear of God? Is God having His way with me, and are people beginning to see God in my life more and more?

Be serious in your commitment to God and gladly leave everything else alone. Literally put God first in your life.

God bless 

[Judy Harder]

Daily Devotionals March 19, 2008

A Fragile Lamb

READ: 1 Cor. 11:23-26
He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities. -Isaiah 53:5
After the Easter eggs were located and the Easter baskets had been opened, Uncle Jay felt compelled to find out whether the white chocolate lamb was hollow or solid. Without thinking of the potential consequences, he squeezed the lamb. Suddenly Jay's whole body stiffened, as if he'd ingested some paralyzing poison. Finally his eyes moved to see if anyone had witnessed the deed. His thumb, however, remained stuck in the side of the lamb.

We waited for the reaction. A wail. A howl. A cry of anguish over the crushed chocolate candy. As the adults in the room scrambled for words that would soothe the sorrow of 3-year-old Jenna, she calmly spoke words that soothed us. "That's okay, Uncle Jay. The lamb would have been broken when I ate him anyway."

While we adults tried to make sacred memories out of Easter traditions, a 3-year-old made a sacred moment for us. She reminded us that Easter is about the perfect Lamb of God, broken so that we can be whole. Her youthful wisdom reminds me of the words we recall at communion: "This is My body which is broken for you." May we taste and see that the life He offers is sweeter than anything we concoct for ourselves.  - Julie Ackerman Link

See, from His head, His hands, His feet,
Sorrow and love flow mingled down;
Did e'er such love and sorrow meet
Or thorns compose so rich a crown?  -Watts

Nothing speaks more clearly of God's love than the cross.

Step Into The River Is Wide by Tony Beckett and Woodrow Kroll
 
Joshua 1-3, Mark 16
Key Verse: Joshua 1:9

Knowing and doing are two different things. One can know what to do and fail to do it because of fear. At times, obedience is incomplete due to fear.

The Israelites were concluding 40 years in the wilderness due to fear. What they saw as impossible kept them from doing what God had wanted. Now the nation was once again on the brink of entering the land.

A new leader stood before them. His frequent challenge was, "Be strong and courageous." That phrase is repeated four times in chapter 1 (vv. 6, 7, 9 and 18) and expressed in slightly different terms in other verses.

It was time to move out. They knew what they were to do and now they were to do it! Notice what happened next. The spies brought back an encouraging report and the people prepared to move out. Their first steps, though, were into a flooded river-where their sandals were to meet the mud, so to speak.

"Be strong and courageous" was put to the test when they stepped into that dangerous river. But they obeyed and God blessed (3:15-16).

There will be times in our life of obedience that our courage will be tested. Be ready to step into the river. God is faithful even when the river is wide.

"Today and every day, Lord, give me the courage to obey. I need the strength You give."

Living Free Every Day®
Today's Scripture
"Don't worry about anything, but pray about everything. With thankful hearts offer up your prayers and requests to God. Then, because you belong to Christ Jesus, God will bless you with peace that no one can completely understand. And this peace will control the way you think and feel." Phil 4:6-7 CEV

Thoughts for Today
Worry seems like a very natural human trait. Strange  because it never accomplishes anything except perhaps harming our health and robbing us of peace. But we still tend to worry. Webster defines worry as mental distress or agitation resulting from concern.

Today's scripture gives God's antidote for worry: prayer. "Pray about everything. With thankful hearts offer up your prayers and requests to God."

When we pray we need to truly offer up our prayers and requests to God-and leave them there. Too often we pray the words and hold on to the worry. As has been said, we need to let go-and let God. Trust him, knowing that he is able, that he is love, that his way is always best. When we do this, God will bless us with a peace so great and wonderful that no human can understand it. And his peace will control the way we think and feel. True peace  even amidst the storm.

Consider this
Are you worried about something right now? Are you ready to give it to Jesus and to trust him with it?

Several years ago a popular song exhorted us  "Don't worry be happy." But the Bible gives us the ultimate answer: Don't worry  pray!

Prayer
Lord, I have been worried about this. In fact, I've been so worried that I am really stressed. And, of course, my worry isn't solving the problem. I commit this need to you and I trust you to work it out according to your plan. I know that's the best plan. Help me to truly let go and rest in your peace. In Jesus' name

These thoughts were drawn from
Understanding Depression: Overcoming Despair through Christ by Donald G. Miles, Ed.D. This study deals with depression, a condition common throughout the world, and addresses these issues:

·         Understanding what depression is and how it affects relationships 

·         Understanding the relationship between depression and spiritual warfare 

·         Ways to fight depression with scripture, prayer and mutual support 

·         Understanding the special prayer needs of depressed persons 

·         Bible-based coping skills 

·         How to pray for healing and what to expect 

·         Serves as a powerful evangelistic tool by providing a way to minister to people's felt needs and then lead them to Christ

This study is recommended for use in support groups and Christian counseling. For more on this topic, visit LivingFreeRadio.org.   

 

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.

." (Romans 4:3).Abraham's Life of Faith

He went out, not knowing where he was going -Hebrews 11:8
In the Old Testament, a person's relationship with God was seen by the degree of separation in that person's life. This separation is exhibited in the life of Abraham by his separation from his country and his family. When we think of separation today, we do not mean to be literally separated from those family members who do not have a personal relationship with God, but to be separated mentally and morally from their viewpoints. This is what Jesus Christ was referring to in Luke 14:26.

Living a life of faith means never knowing where you are being led. But it does mean loving and knowing the One who is leading. It is literally a life of faith, not of understanding and reason-a life of knowing Him who calls us to go. Faith is rooted in the knowledge of a Person, and one of the biggest traps we fall into is the belief that if we have faith, God will surely lead us to success in the world.

The final stage in the life of faith is the attainment of character, and we encounter many changes in the process. We feel the presence of God around us when we pray, yet we are only momentarily changed. We tend to keep going back to our everyday ways and the glory vanishes. A life of faith is not a life of one glorious mountaintop experience after another, like soaring on eagles' wings, but is a life of day-in and day-out consistency; a life of walking without fainting (see Isaiah 40:31). It is not even a question of the holiness of sanctification, but of something which comes much farther down the road. It is a faith that has been tried and proved and has withstood the test. Abraham is not a type or an example of the holiness of sanctification, but a type of the life of faith-a faith, tested and true, built on the true God. "Abraham believed God. .

God bless 

[Judy Harder]

Daily Devotionals March 20, 2008

Who Holds The Cup?
READ: Matthew 26:36-46
Shall I not drink the cup which My Father has given Me? -John 18:11
Are you being called to taste some bitter cup of pain or loss? Are you tempted to push it away? You may be wondering, Is God in this situation? If so, recall the dark and distressing experience of Jesus and His example on the night of His betrayal.

We must never forget that Jesus was the God-Man, with both divine and human natures. He therefore recoiled from the prospect of agonizing crucifixion and the ordeal of having the world's sin heaped on His sinless soul. And worst of all, He shuddered at the thought of being abandoned by His Father. So He pleaded, "If it is possible, let this cup pass from Me" (Matt. 26:39). Yet after that He said in trustful submission, "Shall I not drink the cup which My Father has given Me?" (John 18:11). He knew that the hand, which would for our redemption hold the cup to His lips, was not the hand of Judas or Caiaphas or Pilate. It was the hand of His loving Father intent on redeeming our lost human race.

Baffled by the mystery of such love, we take our stand on Calvary and believe that any cup we drink is held to our lips by the Father of fathomless love and wisdom. Our prayer is that of trustful submission because we believe that even life's most bitter cup is held in the Father's hand.  - Vernon C. Grounds

Death and the curse were in our cup
O Christ, 'twas full for Thee!
But Thou hast drained the last dark drop-
Now blessings there for me.  -Anon.

We learn the lesson of trust in the school of trial.

I Alone Am Left by Woodrow Kroll

1 Kings 19:10
So he said, "I have been very zealous for the Lord God of hosts; for the children of Israel have forsaken Your covenant, torn down Your altars, and killed Your prophets with the sword. I alone am left; and they seek to take my life."

I Alone Am Left

Upon returning from one of his globe-encircling voyages, Sir Francis Drake, the great explorer, anchored his ship in the little Thames River. A dangerous storm arose and it seemed that his ship would flounder. Someone standing near the old, weather-beaten seaman heard him say through gritted teeth, "Must I who have escaped the rage of the ocean be drowned in a ditch?"

Often a Christian who has withstood the assaults of Satan in severe trials and temptations falters because of a minor difficulty. Elijah found himself in such a position. He had confronted Ahab, king of Israel. He had stood up to 450 prophets of Baal. He had challenged the people of Israel to renew their commitment to the Lord. Then he was faced with the wrath of a vengeful woman, Jezebel. Not only did he flee, but he also began to feel sorry for himself. He concluded, "I alone am left; and they seek to take my life."

When we focus on the negative aspects of our situation, it's easy to slip into self-pity. Life is filled with many hardships and injustices. But as Elijah was about to learn, God's people are never left alone. God has promised not to keep us from the valleys, but to walk through them with us (Ps. 23:4). He has promised us not the absence of problems, but the guarantee of His presence (Heb. 13:5).

If you fall victim to self-pity, don't allow yourself to stay bogged down there. Whatever your circumstances, God is with you. The two of you together are sufficient for any situation.

You are never left alone when you are alone with God.

Living Free Every Day®

Today's Scripture
"Be prepared. You're up against far more than you can handle on your own. Take all the help you can get, every weapon God has issued, so that when it's all over but the shouting you'll still be on your feet. Truth, righteousness, peace, faith, and salvation are more than words. Learn how to apply them. You'll need them throughout your life. God's Word is an indispensable weapon. In the same way, prayer is essential in this ongoing warfare. Pray hard and long. Pray for your brothers and sisters. Keep your eyes open. Keep each other's spirits up so that no one falls behind or drops out." Ephesians 6:13-18 MSG

Thoughts for Today
All of us deal with strongholds at times in our lives. The stronghold might be depression or a substance addiction or a behavioral problem or an unhealthy relationship or any other life-controlling problem. The world tries to deal with these strongholds on their own, but as followers of Christ we have access to God's mighty weapons to knock down the strongholds. "We are human, but we don't wage war as humans do. We use God's mighty weapons, not worldly weapons, to knock down the strongholds of human reasoning and to destroy false arguments." 2 Corinthians 10:3-4 NLT

Today's scripture describes some of the weapons and armor God has provided. We need to stop trying to solve and overcome problems on our own. Throughout life we experience situations in which we are "up against far more than we can handle on our own." If we are to overcome, we need to take all the help God has provided

Consider this
Are you struggling with depression or some other life-controlling problem? Prayerfully meditate on today's scripture. You might even want to read it in several translations. Ask God to show you how to apply his weapons and armor to your circumstances.

Prayer
Father, you know my heart and the struggle I am experiencing. I thank you that you have provided the tools of warfare that I need in order to overcome. Teach me how to apply these tools to my life. In Jesus' name 

These thoughts were drawn from
Understanding Depression: Overcoming Despair through Christ by Donald G. Miles, Ed.D. This study deals with depression, a condition common throughout the world, and addresses these issues:

·         Understanding what depression is and how it affects relationships 

·         Understanding the relationship between depression and spiritual warfare 

·         Ways to fight depression with scripture, prayer and mutual support 

·         Understanding the special prayer needs of depressed persons 

·         Bible-based coping skills 

·         How to pray for healing and what to expect 

·         Serves as a powerful evangelistic tool by providing a way to minister to people's felt needs and then lead them to Christ

This study is recommended for use in support groups and Christian counseling. For more on this topic, visit LivingFreeRadio.org.   

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.

Friendship with God

READ:
Shall I hide from Abraham what I am doing . . . ? -Genesis 18:17
The Delights of His Friendship. Genesis 18 brings out the delight of true friendship with God, as compared with simply feeling His presence occasionally in prayer. This friendship means being so intimately in touch with God that you never even need to ask Him to show you His will. It is evidence of a level of intimacy which confirms that you are nearing the final stage of your discipline in the life of faith. When you have a right-standing relationship with God, you have a life of freedom, liberty, and delight; you are God's will. And all of your commonsense decisions are actually His will for you, unless you sense a feeling of restraint brought on by a check in your spirit. You are free to make decisions in the light of a perfect and delightful friendship with God, knowing that if your decisions are wrong He will lovingly produce that sense of restraint. Once he does, you must stop immediately.

The Difficulties of His Friendship. Why did Abraham stop praying when he did? He stopped because he still was lacking the level of intimacy in his relationship with God, which would enable him boldly to continue on with the Lord in prayer until his desire was granted. Whenever we stop short of our true desire in prayer and say, "Well, I don't know, maybe this is not God's will," then we still have another level to go. It shows that we are not as intimately acquainted with God as Jesus was, and as Jesus would have us to be- ". . . that they may be one just as We are one . . ." ( John 17:22 ). Think of the last thing you prayed about-were you devoted to your desire or to God? Was your determination to get some gift of the Spirit for yourself or to get to God? "For your Father knows the things you have need of before you ask Him" ( Matthew 6:8 ). The reason for asking is so you may get to know God better. "Delight yourself also in the Lord, and He shall give you the desires of your heart" ( Psalm 37:4 ). We should keep praying to get a perfect understanding of God Himself.

God bless 

[Judy Harder]

Daily Devotionals March 21, 2008

Remember Me

READ: Luke 23:39-43
Remember me when You come into Your kingdom. -Luke 23:42
Matthew Henshaw got his name into the Guinness Book of World Records in an unusual way. After swallowing a 15.9-inch sword, Henshaw attached a 40-pound sack of potatoes to the handle of the sword and held it for 5 seconds. (This is not recommended.)

Henshaw and others like him have gone to extraordinary lengths to have their names memorialized in the world's most famous record book. The longing for immortality compels people to do many things-some remarkable, and some bizarre.

The immortality Jesus offers has nothing to do with anything we do. In fact, after giving His disciples the authority to do truly remarkable things (Luke 10:17-19), Jesus said, "Do not rejoice . . . that the spirits are subject to you, but rather rejoice because your names are written in heaven" (v.20).

At Golgotha, an unnamed thief believed that message just in time (Luke 23:40-42). He understood that eternal life had nothing to do with what he had done-good or bad. It had to do with what Jesus was doing-giving His own life so that even the undeserving could be welcomed into heaven by God. The important thing is being remembered not by others, but by God.  - Julie Ackerman Link

Bearing shame and scoffing rude,
In my place condemned He stood-
Sealed my pardon with His blood:
Hallelujah, what a Savior!  -Bliss
Our lives matter because God loves us.

Blessed Quietness by Woodrow Kroll

1 Kings 19:11-12

Then He said, "Go out, and stand on the mountain before the Lord." And behold, the Lord passed by, and a great and strong wind tore into the mountains and broke the rocks in pieces before the Lord, but the Lord was not in the wind; and after the wind an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake; and after the earthquake a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire; and after the fire a still small voice.

Blessed Quietness

Years ago when people had ice boxes instead of refrigerators, a man working in an ice plant lost a valuable watch in the sawdust in which the ice was stored. His fellow workmen searched with him, but were unable to find it. They left the plant for lunch and returned to find a young boy with the watch. When they inquired how he found it, the boy replied, "I just lay down in the sawdust and heard it ticking." With all the noisy machinery turned off and a person predisposed to listen, the watch wasn't hard to find at all.

As Elijah stood on Mount Horeb, he was treated to a spectacular display of God's power. A great wind reduced mighty boulders to pebbles. An earthquake shook the ground. Then the mountain was bathed in fire. Each of these was a manifestation of God's power, but they were not God. It was not until all the noise had stopped that Elijah found God Himself in a still, small voice.

Today it's hard to get away from the noise. The hubbub of the city, the noise of the factory, the cry of children, the blare of the radio or television all contribute to a cacophony. In the midst of these things, intimate communion with God is nearly impossible. That's why it's essential that we seek a quiet retreat where we can hear God's still, small voice.

Find a place today where you can shut out the noise of the world. Ask God to calm your mind and remove the clamor that so often fills it. Tune your heart to listen for His voice and discover His intimacy. Get alone. Be still. Stay quiet. Hear God.

Intimacy with God comes in whispers, not shouts.

Living Free Every Day®

Today's Scripture
"And I am convinced and sure of this very thing, that He Who began a good work in you will continue until the day of Jesus Christ [right up to the time of His return], developing [that good work] and perfecting and bringing it to full completion in you." Philippians 1:6 AMP

Thoughts for Today
When we first receive Jesus as our Lord and Savior, we begin a process. We are instantly forgiven of our sins and instantly become his child. But growing in the character and likeness of Jesus and in our witness for him is a lifetime process. We will hit bumps along the way. We will probably slide backwards at times. But if we continue trusting Jesus, he will continue developing the good work he began in us and will bring it to completion on the day he returns.

This promise is comforting in so many ways. First our growth is a process. It's perfectly ok that we haven't "arrived" yet. We don't need to condemn ourselves or to consider ourselves worthless if we haven't done enough or have done wrong. Jesus is always there with his love and forgiveness  he won't leave us or give up on us.

Second, we don't have to overcome or grow in character by ourselves. Our heavenly Father began the work and will continue the work until Jesus comes-and then he will bring it to completion. He always finishes what he starts!

Consider this
Are you feeling down on yourself because of something you've done-or haven't done? Maybe you feel as though you are not good enough, that your situation is hopeless, that you are unloved. Jesus doesn't agree. He loves you. He died for you, and when you received him as Lord and Savior, he clothed you in his righteousness. Your worth is not based on what you do, but on what Jesus did for you. And he is not finished with you yet! He is molding you and preparing you to be what he has called you to be to do what he has called you to do.

Prayer
Father, thank you for not giving up on me. Thank you for continuing the good work you began in me. Thank you for helping me realize that my life, my growth, is a process and that I don't have to do it alone. Thank you that I am special in your eyes. In Jesus' name 

These thoughts were drawn from
Understanding Depression: Overcoming Despair through Christ by Donald G. Miles, Ed.D. This study deals with depression, a condition common throughout the world, and addresses these issues:

·         Understanding what depression is and how it affects relationships 

·         Understanding the relationship between depression and spiritual warfare 

·         Ways to fight depression with scripture, prayer and mutual support 

·         Understanding the special prayer needs of depressed persons 

·         Bible-based coping skills 

·         How to pray for healing and what to expect 

·         Serves as a powerful evangelistic tool by providing a way to minister to people's felt needs and then lead them to Christ

This study is recommended for use in support groups and Christian counseling. For more on this topic, visit LivingFreeRadio.org.   

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.

Identified or Simply Interested?
:
I have been crucified with Christ . . . -Galatians 2:20
The inescapable spiritual need each of us has is the need to sign the death certificate of our sin nature. I must take my emotional opinions and intellectual beliefs and be willing to turn them into a moral verdict against the nature of sin; that is, against any claim I have to my right to myself. Paul said, "I have been crucified with Christ . . . ." He did not say, "I have made a determination to imitate Jesus Christ," or, "I will really make an effort to follow Him"-but-"I have been identified with Him in His death." Once I reach this moral decision and act on it, all that Christ accomplished for me on the Cross is accomplished in me. My unrestrained commitment of myself to God gives the Holy Spirit the opportunity to grant to me the holiness of Jesus Christ.

". . . it is no longer I who live . . . ." My individuality remains, but my primary motivation for living and the nature that rules me are radically changed. I have the same human body, but the old satanic right to myself has been destroyed.

". . . and the life which I now live in the flesh," not the life which I long to live or even pray that I live, but the life I now live in my mortal flesh-the life which others can see, "I live by faith in the Son of God . . . ." This faith was not Paul's own faith in Jesus Christ, but the faith the Son God had given to him (see Ephesians 2:8 ). It is no longer a faith in faith, but a faith that transcends all imaginable limits-a faith that comes only from the Son of God.

God bless 

[Judy Harder]

Daily Devotionals March 22, 2008

A Virtuoso Ignored

READ: Romans 1:18-23
Since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen. -Romans 1:20
A man wearing jeans, a T-shirt, and a baseball cap positioned himself against a wall beside a trash can at the L'Enfant Plaza station in Washington, DC. He pulled out a violin and began to play. In the next 43 minutes, as he performed six classical pieces, 1,097 people passed by, ignoring him.

No one knew it, but the man playing outside the Metro was Joshua Bell, one of the finest classical musicians in the world, playing some of the most elegant music ever written on a $3.5 million Stradivarius. But no crowd gathered for the virtuoso. "It was a strange feeling, that people were actually . . . ignoring me," said Bell.

God also knows what it feels like to be ignored. The apostle Paul said that God has sovereignly planted evidence of His existence in the very nature of man. And creation delivers an unmistakable message about His creativity, beauty, power, and character. Although God has revealed His majesty, many refuse to acknowledge and thank Him. But God will hold everyone responsible for ignoring who He is and what He has revealed: "They are without excuse, because, although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God, nor were thankful" (Rom. 1:20-21).

Let us acknowledge and thank the Virtuoso of heaven, who has wonderfully revealed Himself to us.  - Marvin Williams

The treasures of the crystal snows,
And all the wonders nature shows,
Speak of a mighty Maker's hand
That all in love and wisdom planned.  -Bosch
All creation is an outstretched finger pointing toward God.

A Heart of Humility by Tony Beckett and Woodrow Kroll

Joshua 10-12, Luke 1:39-56
Key Verse: Luke 1:43

Two remarkable women, one older and one younger, teach by example a lesson too easily lost. They teach in what they say and do the amazement every believer should have in sharing the blessings of God. But it is an amazement that can be felt only in a heart of humility.

Elizabeth was amazed to find herself in the presence of Mary, the mother of her Lord. Out of a heart of humility she said that she did not deserve to be there.

Mary, on the other hand, was amazed at the fact that God had chosen her to serve Him in this special way. Her feelings were clear-God owed her nothing. Yet she had received everything from Him. Out of a heart of humility she acknowledged His work in her life.

Humility is a natural result when one truly recognizes the awesomeness of God. These two saints felt honored by God and expressed a deep sense of respect for Him. Their relationship with God was not a casual one, as if He were a friendly neighbor. To them, knowing God was an honor.

Are you too casual about the things of God? Awe is easily lost when familiarity with the Almighty is taken for granted. Keep a heart of humility and be amazed like Mary and Elizabeth.

Humility can be hard to obtain and even more difficult to keep-especially when we think we are humble. Aim low! Stay humble.

March 22

Take and tell
For reading & meditation: John 20:10-18
"Go ' to my brothers and tell them '" (v.17)

Today, on this penultimate day of our meditations on Psalm 73, we face the important practical question: How do we go about the task of keeping close to God? Firstly, we do so by prayer. The person who keeps close to God is the one who is always talking to God. Many definitions of prayer have been given; I add another: prayer is co-operation with God. In prayer you align your desires, your will, your life to God. You and God become agreed on life desires, life purposes, life plans, and you work them out together. Secondly, we do it by constant study of the Scriptures. God's Word is alive with meaning, and when you read it something will happen to you, for "the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword" (Heb.4:12, NKJ). Expect it to speak to you - and it will. Faith is expectancy: "According to your faith will it be done to you" (Matt. 9:29). Remember also to surrender to the truth that is revealed: "If anyone wills to do His will, he shall know '" (John 7:17, NKJ). In a moral universe the key to knowledge is moral response. The moment we cease to obey, that moment the revelation ceases to reveal. We do it, thirdly, by sharing with others. Remember, nothing is ours if we do not share it. When we share, the things go deeper inside us. We must share what God is doing, both with our fellow Christians and with non-Christians also. The psalmist's last words are these: "I will tell of all your deeds." We take and we tell - we take and we tell; these, we must never forget, are the two heartbeats of the Christian experience.

Prayer:

Gracious Father, I don't want nearness to You to be an occasional experience - I want it to be a perpetual experience. Help me to pay the price, no matter what it costs. In Jesus' Name I ask it. Amen.
For further study:
Jeremiah 20:1-9; Psalms 66:16; Isaiah 63:7;
1. What was God's Word like in Jeremiah's heart?
2. What did the psalmist say he would do?

The Burning Heart
Did not our heart burn within us . . . ? -Luke 24:32
We need to learn this secret of the burning heart. Suddenly Jesus appears to us, fires are set ablaze, and we are given wonderful visions; but then we must learn to maintain the secret of the burning heart- a heart that can go through anything. It is the simple, dreary day, with its commonplace duties and people, that smothers the burning heart- unless we have learned the secret of abiding in Jesus.

Much of the distress we experience as Christians comes not as the result of sin, but because we are ignorant of the laws of our own nature. For instance, the only test we should use to determine whether or not to allow a particular emotion to run its course in our lives is to examine what the final outcome of that emotion will be. Think it through to its logical conclusion, and if the outcome is something that God would condemn, put a stop to it immediately. But if it is an emotion that has been kindled by the Spirit of God and you don't allow it to have its way in your life, it will cause a reaction on a lower level than God intended. That is the way unrealistic and overly emotional people are made. And the higher the emotion, the deeper the level of corruption, if it is not exercised on its intended level. If the Spirit of God has stirred you, make as many of your decisions as possible irrevocable, and let the consequences be what they will. We cannot stay forever on the "mount of transfiguration," basking in the light of our mountaintop experience (see Mark 9:1-9 ). But we must obey the light we received there; we must put it into action. When God gives us a vision, we must transact business with Him at that point, no matter what the cost.

We cannot kindle when we will The fire which in the heart resides, The spirit bloweth and is still, In mystery our soul abides; But tasks in hours of insight willed Can be through hours of gloom fulfilled.


God bless 

[Judy Harder]

Daily Devotionals March 23, 2008


He is Risen!


We Believe

READ: Romans 8:11-18
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who . . . has begotten us again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ. -1 Peter 1:3
In 2005, Hurricane Katrina put New Orleans underwater. But an unlikely event gave the city a new lease on life  just 17 months later. The New Orleans Saints, a perennially woeful football team, made a run at the Super Bowl championship. The whole region grasped the excitement. Signs saying "We Believe" reflected a new day.

Commenting on the phenomenon, producer Quint Davis said, "When the season is over, the miles of devastation are still going to be devastated." But he added, "If this can happen for New Orleans, this miracle, then anything can happen for New Orleans."

The Saints fell one game short, but the idea remained enticing. An "impossibility" had so captured the hearts of a people, they began thinking anything was possible.

In an infinitely more important way, this is what we have in Jesus' bodily resurrection from the dead. Christ defeated death on mortality's own turf, declaring the power of God to give us new life and hope. Paul wrote, "He who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit who dwells in you" (Rom. 8:11).

No other event in human history is more significant. No other event is so full of immediate hope and ultimate victory for the saints in Christ Jesus.  - Mart De Haan

Jesus Christ today is risen,
And o'er death triumphant reigns;
He has burst the grave's strong prison,
Leading sin herself in chains.  -Luther
Christ's resurrection is the bud of promise-our resurrection is the flower of fulfillment!

Incomplete Obedience by Tony Beckett and Woodrow Kroll

Joshua 13-15, Luke 1:57-80
Key Verse: Joshua 13:13

Great promises and great victories fill the pages of the Book of Joshua. Israel moved into the Promised Land and conquered it with God's help. Jericho fell, literally. Ai was ultimately defeated. The sun even stood still-all striking evidence that God was fighting for Israel (10:14).

Yet when the details of the conquest are examined beginning in Joshua 13:13, a sad fact needs to be noted. The Israelites did not drive out the people of Geshur and Maacah. The significance is not the names of the people but the fact that they were allowed to remain in the land. As you continue to read Joshua, you will find this phrase repeated: "did not drive them out completely."

The account of Joshua tells us about God's promises and Israel's victories. But it does not hide the fact that sometimes the fulfillment of the promises was limited by Israel's incomplete obedience. Lack of faith and incomplete obedience allowed some of the people to remain in the land.

God's instructions were clear. His promises were certain. The failure was not God's but the people's. They failed and ultimately bore the consequences.

Always strive for complete obedience; never stop short of it.

Whatever God gives you to do, do it completely. Unfinished tasks can be more troublesome than the effort of doing it the first time.

March 23

Reflections
For reading & meditation: Psalms 73:1-28
"But as for me, it is good to be near God '" (v.28)

A tinge of sadness is upon my spirit as I come to this last day of our meditations on Psalm 73. In all my years of writing, never can I remember being so personally blessed. The truth this psalm conveys has gripped my own heart and life in a most unusual way. Let's remind ourselves of what the psalmist has taught us. Life is filled with many painful and perplexing problems which at times cause us to cry out: "Lord, why don't You intervene?" Yet just as our feet are about to slide, something always comes to us - an idea or a thought, which, if we hold on to it, serves to halt our downward progress. We discover that when we act responsibly and do what is right, even though we do not feel like it, we put ourselves in the way of experiencing inward change. But it is not God's purpose to bring about only a little change - He desires to bring about a lot of change. How does He achieve this? He does it by bringing us into His presence and revealing to us His Word. There we discover that our greatest problems are not the ones that are outside us but the ones that are inside us - our perspectives are wrong. Real change comes about not when our feelings are soothed but when our thinking is changed. Changed thinking leads to changed desires. When our perspectives are controlled by the Word rather than by the world, then we will experience inner peace. The psalmist resolved to draw near to God and stay close to Him so that he could "see life steadily, and see it whole". Let's make that our resolution too.

Prayer:

O Father, I see that the secret of effective living is looking at life from Your point of view. I resolve by Your grace to give myself more and more to learning this secret. Help me, my Father. In Jesus' Name I ask it. Amen.
For further study:
Psalms 57:1-7; Psalms 57:1-7
1. What did the psalmist mean by "steadfast"?

2. Where is your heart fixed? 
His Resurrection Destiny
By Oswald Chambers

"Ought not the Christ to have suffered these things and to enter into His glory?" - Luke 24:26

Our Lord's Cross is the gateway into His life. His resurrection means that He has the power to convey His life to me. When I was born again, I received the very life of the risen Lord from Jesus Himself. Christ's resurrection destiny-His foreordained purpose-was to bring "many sons to glory" ( Hebrews 2:10 ).

The fulfilling of His destiny gives Him the right to make us sons and daughters of God. We never have exactly the same relationship to God that the Son of God has, but we are brought by the Son into the relation of sonship. When our Lord rose from the dead, He rose to an absolutely new life-a life He had never lived before He was God Incarnate. He rose to a life that had never been before. And what His resurrection means for us is that we are raised to His risen life, not to our old life.

One day we will have a body like His glorious body, but we can know here and now the power and effectiveness of His resurrection and can "walk in newness of life" ( Romans 6:4)). Paul's determined purpose was to "know Him and the power of His resurrection" ( Philippians 3:10 ). Jesus prayed, ". . . as You have given Him authority over all flesh that He should give eternal life to as many as You have given Him" ( John 17:2 .

The term Holy Spirit is actually another name for the experience of eternal life working in human beings here and now. The Holy Spirit is the deity of God who continues to apply the power of the atonement by the Cross of Christ to our lives. Thank God for the glorious and majestic truth that His Spirit can work the very nature of Jesus into us, if we will only obey Him.

God bless  

[Judy Harder]

Daily Devotionals March 24, 2008

Just Jewelry?

READ: Matthew 27:22-26

God forbid that I should boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ. -Galatians 6:14
Some Christians make it a habit to wear a cross. It may be on a necklace or a lapel pin. It may be worn thoughtlessly as a decoration or prayerfully to let people know of the wearer's personal faith.

In April 2006, a Methodist church in the city of Dudley, England, found out that it would have to pay a fee to put a cross on its new building. Yes, a fee was required because under British law the cross is an advertisement. It proclaims to the world, whether on a person or a building, that the blood-stained cross of Calvary is our only hope of forgiveness and salvation.

Our Bible reading today tells us of the cross-the instrument of execution used on our Savior (Matt. 27:22-26). The crowd in anger shouted, "Let Him be crucified!" The cross is a sign of His death, and must not be taken lightly. This should cause us to examine what the cross means to us. Is it a witness to our eternal hope in the saving death of Jesus on Calvary?

While wearing the cross may be a challenging mark of discipleship, far more challenging is our Lord's command that we "take up [our] cross daily" and learn what it means to follow in His footsteps (Luke 9:23). And that includes a willingness to practice costly discipleship.  - Vernon C. Grounds

"Take up thy cross and follow Me,"
I hear the blessed Savior call;
How can I make a lesser sacrifice
When Jesus gave His all?  -Ackley
Because Jesus bore the cross for us, we should be willing to take it up for Him.

No Turning Back by Woodrow Kroll

1 Kings 19:19-21

So he departed from there, and found Elisha the son of Shaphat, who was plowing with twelve yoke of oxen before him, and he was with the twelfth. Then Elijah passed by him and threw his mantle on him. And he left the oxen and ran after Elijah, and said, "Please let me kiss my father and my mother, and then I will follow you." And he said to him, "Go back again, for what have I done to you?" So Elisha turned back from him, and took a yoke of oxen and slaughtered them and boiled their flesh, using the oxen's equipment, and gave it to the people, and they ate. Then he arose and followed Elijah, and served him.

No Turning Back

On December 21, 1620, the Mayflower dropped anchor in Plymouth Bay. It had been a grueling voyage across the Atlantic, taking the small ship 66 days to make the perilous crossing. There had been disease, anxiety and even childbirth among the 102 courageous passengers. Furthermore, they arrived on the bleak New England shore during a hard winter that ultimately claimed the lives of half their number. But when spring came and the captain of the Mayflower offered free passage to anyone desiring to return, not a single person accepted. These folks had made a commitment and they were not turning back.

Elijah's call to Elisha brought the same response. As a farmer, Elisha had been plowing with 12 yoke of oxen. When Elijah threw his mantle on this hardworking plowboy, Elisha took the very means of his livelihood, a yoke of oxen, and slaughtered them to provide a farewell feast for his friends. In doing so, he cut the ties to his old life and demonstrated his commitment to the ministry ahead of him.

Christians need to take this same step of commitment. We cannot live effectively for Christ if one foot is in the faith and the other is in the world. We need to make a clean break with the past and live for the Lord.

If God has called you to a particular kind of service, commit yourself unreservedly to it. Let your past be the past. Put it behind you and move forward with God. There's no greater ingredient for success in serving God.

There's no room for turning around in Christ's service.

Living Free Every Day®
Today's Scripture

"And he [Abram] believed in (trusted in, relied on, remained steadfast to) the Lord, and He counted it to him as righteousness (right standing with God). "Genesis 15:6 AMP

Thoughts for Today

Godly heroes portrayed in the Bible were people of faith, their foundation was faith in God. Abraham was a hero of faith, in fact, in Romans 4:16 he is called the father of all who believe.
Abraham trusted in, relied on and remained steadfast to the Lord. Because of Abraham's faith, God counted him as righteous. Abraham's faith was at the core of the way he lived his life. Because of his faith he obeyed God he taught and directed his family to walk in God's ways he looked forward, not back and he lived life with an eternal perspective. This week we will look in more depth at these characteristics and what we can learn from them.

We were saved by faith when we trusted Jesus. And God has called us to a life of faith. Indeed, in Hebrews 11:6 we learn that without faith it is impossible to please God. The lives of Abraham and other heroes of faith were built on a foundation of faith in God. We are in a better position to believe than those heroes, their salvation was based on what Christ would do. Our salvation is based on what he has already done.

Consider this

Is faith the foundation of your life? Are you trusting in, relying on and remaining steadfast to the Lord in every area of your life? Is there an area of your life that is being ruled by worry and fear instead of faith? Is there some part of your life in which you are doing your own thing instead of trusting God for his plan? Let us ask God to help us follow the example of Abraham and other heroes of faith. Let faith be at the core of our lives, inundating our thoughts, our attitudes and our actions.

Prayer
Father, thank you that I have been saved by faith. Help me live a life based on my faith in you. Teach me to trust, not worry. Teach me to obey you in faith, not choose my own way. In Jesus' name 

These thoughts were drawn from
Godly Heroes: A Small Group Study of Hebrews 11 by Jimmy Ray Lee, D.Min. This guide presents a step-by-step study of Hebrews 11. It also features the profile of the characteristics of Godly heroes, written in language that relates to today's living and offering definitions, characteristics and examples of the heroes' faith life. Learn more about this topic.

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.   

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.

Decreasing for His Purpose

He must increase, but I must decrease -John 3:30
If you become a necessity to someone else's life, you are out of God's will. As a servant, your primary responsibility is to be a "friend of the bridegroom" (John 3:29  ). When you see a person who is close to grasping the claims of Jesus Christ, you know that your influence has been used in the right direction. And when you begin to see that person in the middle of a difficult and painful struggle, don't try to prevent it, but pray that his difficulty will grow even ten times stronger, until no power on earth or in hell could hold him away from Jesus Christ. Over and over again, we try to be amateur providences in someone's life. We are indeed amateurs, coming in and actually preventing God's will and saying, "This person should not have to experience this difficulty." Instead of being friends of the Bridegroom, our sympathy gets in the way. One day that person will say to us, "You are a thief; you stole my desire to follow Jesus, and because of you I lost sight of Him."

Beware of rejoicing with someone over the wrong thing, but always look to rejoice over the right thing. ". . . the friend of the bridegroom . . . rejoices greatly because of the bridegroom's voice. Therefore this joy of mine is fulfilled. He must increase, but I must decrease" ( John 3:29-30  ). This was spoken with joy, not with sadness-at last they were to see the Bridegroom! And John said this was his joy. It represents a stepping aside, an absolute removal of the servant, never to be thought of again.

Listen intently with your entire being until you hear the Bridegroom's voice in the life of another person. And never give any thought to what devastation, difficulties, or sickness it will bring. Just rejoice with godly excitement that His voice has been heard. You may often have to watch Jesus Christ wreck a life before He saves it (see Matthew 10:34  ).

God bless 

[Judy Harder]

Daily Devotionals March 25, 2008

The Tomb Of Jesus

READ: Luke 24:1-12
He is not here, but is risen! -Luke 24:6
In his documentary The Lost Tomb of Jesus, Simcha Jacobovici claims archaeological evidence that disproves the resurrection of Christ. He says that the words "Jesus son of Joseph" found on a burial container near Jerusalem refer to Jesus of Nazareth. He also claims to have identified Jesus' DNA.

How valid are these conclusions? The Israel Antiquities Authority calls them "nonsense." Other secular and religious scholars agree. Jesus and Joseph were common names in first-century Judea. And Jacobovici needs DNA samples from Jesus to compare with the bones in the tomb. Obviously, that's impossible!

But there are strong arguments in favor of Jesus' resurrection. Most compelling is the fact that every disciple except John died a martyr's death. Central to their message was Jesus' resurrection (Acts 2:29-32). If Christ had not been raised from the dead, why did the disciples choose to die rather than deny it?

Assaults on our faith and on the Scriptures come and go. Don't be shaken by these baseless attacks. Two thousand years ago, the disciples were eyewitnesses to the real tomb of Jesus. The angels told them, "Why do you seek the living among the dead? He is not here, but is risen!" (Luke 24:5-6).  - Dennis Fisher

Up from the grave He arose,
With a mighty triumph o'er His foes;
He arose a Victor from the dark domain,
And He lives forever with His saints to reign.  -Lowry

The resurrection is a fact of history that demands a response of faith.

Ready to Wait by Tony Beckett and Woodrow Kroll

Joshua 19-21, Luke 2:25-52
Key Verse: Luke 2:29-30

Patience is not a widely practiced virtue anymore. Today is the time for fast food, microwaves and high-speed computers. Just drive through, download and move on to the next thing.

Yet sometimes God says, "Wait." To faithfully follow God, one must be willing to surrender to not only the will of God but also to the "wait" of God.

The Bible tells us that Simeon was a man whom God had instructed to wait, though we don't know for how long. He would not die until he had seen the Lord's Christ (v. 26). Simeon accepted the fact that the timing of his life and death were in God's hands. Once he saw Jesus, he then said, "Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you now dismiss your servant in peace" (v. 29).

In a similar way, Anna, an 84-year-old widow, was a faithful follower who never left the temple. Hers was a life of worship (v. 37).

Simeon and Anna demonstrated remarkable patience. He waited. She remained faithful. Their days, perhaps months and even years, were in God's hands.

Patient faithfulness is a virtue that needs to be demonstrated in the lives of God's followers today. Have you surrendered to the "wait" of God?

When do you want God to answer your prayers? Probably right now. So, pray this prayer for Him to answer now: "Lord, teach me to wait on You."

Living Free Every Day®

Today's Scripture
"By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went, even though he did not know where he was going." Hebrews 11:8 NIV

Thoughts for Today
Abraham left the comfort and security of Ur to obey the call of God. Without hesitation, he "obeyed and went." He is known for this immediate step of obedience.

Abraham's spiritual experience was marked by four difficult steps of obedience that showed the strength of his trust in God: 

He left his country and family (Genesis 12:1). 
He broke with his nephew Lot, offering Lot his choice of land (Genesis 13:1-18). 
He changed his focus from Ishmael to Isaac for the center of God's promise (Genesis 17:17-18). 
He was willing to offer up Isaac, his only son (Genesis 22:1-19).   
Abraham did not choose the easy way in these situations-because of his faith in God, he chose God's way and obeyed him, even when obedience was difficult. His faith is an example for all of us. Paul uses Abraham as the central theme in Romans 4 concerning justification by faith and describes him as "the father of all who believe" (Romans 4:11). Abraham was God's friend (James 2:23).

Consider this
Are you willing to obey God even when it's not easy? When you don't understand? This kind of obedience takes a great deal of faith, faith in God's goodness, faith in his love for you, faith in his power, faith in his plan. It also takes devotion to God and a desire to please him. May we all work toward this kind of faith by meditating in God's Word, by spending time in prayer,listening as well as speaking,and by allowing the Holy Spirit to reveal truth to us.

Growing in faith and obedience is a process that spans a lifetime. Looking at the entire process can be overwhelming. Try to focus on a decision or choice you are facing right now, today. Determine to choose God's way. When you sense his direction, don't hesitate. Step out in obedience, even if you don't understand the reason. Trust him. His plan is always the best one.

Prayer
Father, help me to follow in the example of Abraham and other heroes of faith. I know that in the past I've sometimes taken the easy way out or insisted on doing things my way instead of trusting and obeying you. Forgive me. Help me in this situation right now to be sensitive.and obedient.to your leading. Help me to obey without hesitation. In Jesus' name 

These thoughts were drawn from
Godly Heroes: A Small Group Study of Hebrews 11 by Jimmy Ray Lee, D.Min. This guide presents a step-by-step study of Hebrews 11. It also features the profile of the characteristics of Godly heroes, written in language that relates to today's living and offering definitions, characteristics and examples of the heroes' faith life. Learn more about this topic.

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.   

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THE MOST DELICATE MISSION ON EARTH-Oswald Chambers
 
"The friend of the Bridegroom." John 3:29

Goodness and purity ought never to attract attention to themselves, they ought simply to be magnets to draw to Jesus Christ. If my holiness is not drawing towards Him, it is not holiness of the right order, but an influence that will awaken inordinate affection and lead souls away into side-eddies. A beautiful saint may be a hindrance if he does not present Jesus Christ but only what Christ has done for him. He will leave the impression - "What a fine character that man is!" That is not being a true friend of the Bridegroom; I am increasing all the time, He is not.

In order to maintain this friendship and loyalty to the Bridegroom, we have to be more careful of our moral and vital relationship to Him than of any other thing, even of obedience. Sometimes there is nothing to obey, the only thing to do is to maintain a vital connection with Jesus Christ, to see that nothing interferes with that. Only occasionally do we have to obey. When a crisis arises we have to find out what God's will is, but the greater part of the life is not conscious obedience but the maintenance of this relationship - the friend of the Bridegroom. Christian work may be a means of evading the soul's concentration on Jesus Christ. Instead of being friends of the Bridegroom, we may become amateur providences, and may work against Him whilst we use His weapons.

God bless