Today's One Thing

[Judy Harder]

You'll be amazed at what God will reveal to you through His Word. 

Wisdom is better than jewels, and all that you may desire cannot compare with her. —Proverbs 8:11 (ESV) 
 
Priceless
The long caravan looked spectacular as it wound across 1,200 dusty, windswept miles from Arabia to Jerusalem. Its leader was the Queen of Sheba, sitting majestically atop her camel—gold trappings, glittering jewels and aromatic spices declaring her presence. Her desire was to see Israel's King Solomon, of whom she had heard much.

Scholars speculate her goal was to secure a trade alliance, a wise move since Israel's wealth and Solomon's vast fleet of ships likely posed a threat to her dominance. But 1 Kings 10 reveals she came away with far more than a treaty. She was overwhelmed with the achievements by which his kingdom was established; astounded with the wisdom by which he answered her questions. "Blessed be the Lord your God, who has delighted in you and set you on the throne of Israel!" she declared. "Because the Lord loved Israel forever, he has made you king, that you may execute justice and righteousness." (1 Kings 10:9 ESV) The Queen of Sheba went back home with all she desired and asked for, and then some.       

What is it you seek? In Proverbs, Solomon says nothing you'll ever desire can compare with wisdom, and it's found only in the timeless treasury of God's Word. From this day forward, decide that you will go on a quest for His priceless wisdom by daily reading the Bible. You'll be amazed by what you come away with.   
 
Today's One Thing
Read Proverbs 8 and listen to wisdom's call for your life.
 
Going Deeper
1 Kings 10:1-13; Proverbs 3:13-26

[Judy Harder]

Never underestimate the power of prayer to change lives as God responds to your pleas for others. 

Come, I will send you to Pharaoh that you may bring my people, the children of Israel, out of Egypt. —Exodus 3:10 (ESV) 
 
Nobody Prayers
He was an old man—and just getting started.

Moses didn't receive his Divine calling to deliver the people of Israel from Egyptian bondage until eight decades into his life. By then, Moses had a grasp of exactly who he was in relation to Almighty God. Dwight L. Moody put it this way: "Moses spent his first 40 years thinking he was somebody. He spent his second 40 years learning he was a nobody. He spent his third 40 years discovering what God can do with a nobody."

The Lord used the "nobody" Moses in amazing ways. One of the things Moses did quite often in those last 40 years was pray. Just one example is found in Exodus 34:8-9 (ESV): "Moses quickly bowed his head toward the earth and worshiped. And he said, 'If now I have found favor in your sight, O Lord, please let the Lord go in the midst of us, for it is a stiff-necked people, and pardon our iniquity and our sin, and take us for your inheritance.'" This plea was spoken after Moses had received the Ten Commandments a second time following Israel's folly of worshipping the golden calf. Moses transformed the Israelites by faithfully and intentionally interceding to God on their behalf, asking for forgiveness and restoration.

You cannot underestimate the power of intercessory prayer to change a life as the Lord responds to your "nobody" prayers, offered humbly yet desperately.
 
Today's One Thing
Pray for the people God lays upon your heart. Seek His will for their lives.
 
Going Deeper
Deuteronomy 34:1-12; Acts 7:20-38; Romans 12:1-12

[Judy Harder]

You'll positively touch someone's life every time you forgive them. 
 
Bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. —Colossians 3:13 (ESV) 
 
Be a Saver
He could've let them die of starvation. It would've been a just end for those who had jealously hated him and brutally sold him away as a slave into a life stripped of freedom, family and homeland.

But Joseph of the Old Testament was a different sort of man—endowed by God with incredible integrity and wisdom that lifted him to the heights of power and influence in Egypt. Joseph's insight sustained that great nation through severe famine, but it was his ability to forgive that saved his family. Joseph not only chose to reconcile with his brothers; he provided for them, their children, and even his long lost father Jacob. He reassured his brothers after their father's death that his forgiveness would not be withdrawn.

"But Joseph said to them, 'Do not fear, for am I in the place of God? As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive, as they are today. So do not fear; I will provide for you and your little ones.' Thus he comforted them and spoke kindly to them." (Genesis 50:19-21 ESV) Thanks to Joseph and his forgiveness, they would live out their days safe and unafraid.       

You'll positively touch someone's life every time you forgive them for the hurt they've caused you—and then care for them, without condition, as evidence of your forgiveness. Who can you save today?
 
Today's One Thing
Tell someone who has offended you that you forgive them.
 
Going Deeper
Genesis 45:1-15; Genesis 50:15-26; Ephesians 4:20-32

[Judy Harder]

Sometimes your intellect can get in the way of simply trusting God.   
 
Some men joined him and believed, among whom also were Dionysius the Areopagite and a woman named Damaris and others with them. —Acts 17:34 (ESV) 
 
Smart Move
Damaris was a smart lady, in more ways than one. Paul had just preached to the Athenians, and today's verse identifies Damaris as being one of his converts to Jesus Christ. But what is it that makes her story significant?

Scholars believe that because Damaris was able to hear Paul at a meeting of the Areopagus—a learned group that studied and discussed new religions and foreign gods—she was likely one of the Hetairai, a highly intellectual class of Greek women who associated with philosophers and statesmen. Damaris was apparently educated, cultured and wise in the areas of religion and morality, yet possessed the spiritual receptivity to rightly discern the truth of Paul's message and discover the One True God.

Do you sometimes allow your supposed intellect, or even apparent common sense, to get in the way of believing God for your need? Your alleged expertise will often try to sabotage your ability to simply rely on Him. "Do you see a man who is wise in his own eyes?" Proverbs 26:12 (ESV) asks. "There is more hope for a fool than for him." On the other hand, Proverbs 3:5 encourages you to "trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding."

Follow Damaris' lead! Have faith in God and His knowledge, not your own abilities. It's a smart move.
 
Today's One Thing
Why over think your problems? Pray about them and listen for God's direction.
 
Going Deeper
Matthew 6:25-34; Luke 18:1-14; Acts 17:16-34

[Judy Harder]

Take a firm stand and trust in God, even when it goes against what everyone else thinks is correct.   
 
Therefore, my brothers, whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm thus in the Lord, my beloved. —Philippians 4:1 (ESV) 
 
Like No Other
He lived during a momentous period in human history. The first Olympiad had taken place in Greece. Rome had just been founded. But times in Judah were bleak. The nation's apostasy was so wretched that his father Ahaz had encouraged the people to imitate the evil Moabites and burn their children in the fire as living sacrifices.

Yet when Hezekiah began his reign, recorded in 2 Kings 18-20, he went sharply against the culture—choosing instead to honor the Lord. He abolished idolatry, refused to pay tribute to mighty Assyria as his father had, saw the resulting invasion by Sennacherib ultimately defeated by God Himself, and experienced Divine healing and the miraculous extension of his life. Hezekiah transformed the people of Judah by turning them away from wickedness and restoring worship of the Lord. No wonder 2 Kings 18:5 (ESV) said of Hezekiah, "He trusted in the Lord the God of Israel, so that there was none like him among all the kings of Judah after him, nor among those who were before him." What an incredible statement of his legacy.

To make a difference, you should take a firm stand and trust in God, even when it goes against what everyone else thinks is correct. Be bold, obey the Lord, honor Him, and you'll have an impact that's like no other.
 
Today's One Thing
Make a change in your personal or family life that will increase how God is honored in your home.
 
Going Deeper
2 Kings 18:1-8; 2 Timothy 2:11-19; 1 Peter 5:6-12

 

[Judy Harder]

Seek to be a miracle for someone. Be confident God will use you as He promised.
 
Elijah said to Elisha, "Ask what I shall do for you, before I am taken from you." And Elisha said, "Please let there be a double portion of your spirit on me." —2 Kings 2:9 (ESV) 
 
Way More
From the very moment cited in today's passage until after his death when a man's body was revived from falling upon his bones, Elisha was a miracle man! A reading of 2 Kings chapters 2-8 tells of financial deliverances, physical healings, and even of a boy being raised from the dead. Elisha's prophetic insight and wise counsel proved invaluable to kings, and he finished Elijah's work of destroying the system of Baal worship. In all, Elisha transformed countless lives through his unwavering obedience to the Lord and the many amazing works God performed through him. He was someone who wanted to do more—and was bold enough to believe that he could.

Eight centuries later, Jesus said, "Whoever believes in me will also do the works that I do; and greater works than these will he do." (John 14:12 ESV) Christ was speaking about you.

Seek to be a miracle for someone. Perhaps they have a monetary need you can fill, a word of encouragement you can provide, or a life-giving act of service you can perform. Whatever it is, ask God in prayer to direct you and obey His leading. Be confident that the Lord will use you as He promised. You'll make a difference in their life—likely in a way more than you could imagine—for His glory!
 
Today's One Thing
Do something to help a friend or co-worker. Have boldness in God's power working through you.
 
Going Deeper
2 Kings 2:1-15; 2 Kings 13:14-21; John 14:1-14

 

[Judy Harder]

Obey God and rely on His strength as you courageously face whatever challenges you. 

Why should the name of our father be taken away from his clan because he had no son? Give to us a possession among our father's brothers. —Numbers 27:4 (ESV) 
 
Courageous Act
Women the world over should erect a monument to honor Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milcah and Tirzah—the daughters of Zelophehad. So should every attorney. Why? These five young women successfully filed one of the earliest reported lawsuits on record, and won an incredible victory for women's rights.

Zelophehad had died in the desert, and since he had not joined in the rebellion against Moses, his family had a right to his inheritance. Problem was, he did not have a son to claim it, so his daughters boldly declared they were entitled to what he had left. Their action in approaching Moses, Eleazar and the leaders of the nation was unprecedented, an act of great courage and conviction. Moses took their case before the Lord, and the ultimate Judge quickly returned His decision: in favor of the daughters. The law was rewritten, and women gained legal property rights for the very first time.

What courageous act is God asking of you? Perhaps He's calling you to witness to a neighbor, confront a loved one with a relationship problem, or start a new business or ministry. Maybe you're facing a problem that threatens to overtake you, something where you know only God can deliver you. Whatever it is, obey the Lord and rely on His strength! He will benefit you and your loved ones in ways you'll find unprecedented.
Today's One Thing
Wait upon God in prayer, and seek Him in the Bible for direction.
 
Going Deeper
Numbers 27:1-11; Joshua 1:6-9; Psalm 27:7-14


 

[Judy Harder]

Talk to God. 


So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God. —Ephesians 2:19 (ESV) 
 
He is with you—always!
Vanessa hurriedly pressed the plastic containers for leftovers into the top drawer of the dishwasher. Although her mother's home was only three hours away, the frequent weekend trips to help her mom through a necessary surgery took a toll on her kitchen with the uneaten leftovers taking up most of the refrigerator space.

She pushed her hair back out of her face after closing the dishwasher drawer. "Mommy...," she turned to see her six year old, Michelle, standing next to her. "Yes, honey," she replied, still in work mode. "Are we going to stay at Daddy's again?"

"Yes, one more weekend and then we'll be back on schedule where you are with me every other weekend."

"Good!" Michelle smiled. "I need to go to church and talk to Jesus. We don't go to church when we go to Daddy's house."

"Yes, I know," Vanessa said picking Michelle up and sitting her on the freshly cleaned kitchen counter. Looking deeply into her daughter's beautiful eyes she said, "But, honey, you don't have to wait to talk to God. He's not in the church building waiting for you. When you prayed, Jesus came into your heart. He is right here," she said pointing to Michelle's heart.

"He can hear me, right now?" she asked. "I can talk to Him anytime—at home, school, and at Daddy's."

"Absolutely," Vanessa nodded. "Now give me a hug." Michelle enthusiastically opened her arms wide and embraced her mother.

Christ Jesus lives and dwells in the hearts of all who believe. You don't have to wait for the perfect moment or place to pray. He's never too busy to hear from you.
 
Today's One Thing
Jesus is there for you right now. What do you need to share with Him about your life today?
 
Going Deeper
Ephesians 2:11-22; Revelation 3:18-22

 

[Judy Harder]

Whatever you're doing, you don't have to do it alone.   
 
If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him. —James 1:5 (ESV) 
 
Parenting with God
With her arms loaded with more groceries than she should've carried in one trip, Whitney stood in front of the door leading into the house from the garage exasperated. Her seven year old son, Steven, let the door slam shut in front of her. "Steven...," she called, "please open the door for Mommy." Her patience was running thin. She'd had a tough day at work too. This is just not a good day all the way around, she thought to herself. "Steven," she called again.

The door opened and he smiled. "I can hold it open for you," he remarked.

"That would be very nice" she replied. Steven's teacher called her during work to share how difficult he'd been in class today. She hurriedly put away the groceries and started dinner, trying to calm down before talking to Steven about his day. "Lord, give me your wisdom in what to say to my son."

After dinner, she collapsed on the couch. Steven came into the living room after his shower and snuggled up next to her. "Mom, I had a bad day today. She brushed his wet hair out of his eyes, "I did too," she told him. "Will you pray with me? I think if I ask God, he will help me do better tomorrow."

Whitney smiled, "Let's ask him to help both of us do better, okay." Steven bowed his head.

Whatever you're doing, you don't have to do it alone. God has made his strength and wisdom available to you. It's yours when you ask for it.
 
Today's One Thing
Ask God for His wisdom for the challenges you are facing today.
 
Going Deeper
Psalm 127:1-5; James 1:2-18


 

[Judy Harder]

There is always hope with the Lord, regardless of your circumstances.   
 
Now may our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God our Father, who loved us and gave us eternal comfort and good hope through grace, comfort your hearts and establish them in every good work and word. —2 Thessalonians 2:16-17 (ESV) 
 
Pleasant Surprise
Her name meant pleasant, but for Naomi, life had been anything but satisfying. She had neither husband nor sons—just two young daughters-in-law, both foreigners and childless. In her despair, Naomi preferred to be called Mara, or bitter. "I went away full, and the Lord has brought me back empty," she said in Ruth 1:21 (ESV). "Why call me Naomi, when the Lord has testified against me and the Almighty has brought calamity upon me?"

Yet Naomi discovered renewed hope through the faithful companionship of Ruth, the daughter-in-law that chose to stay with her, and Ruth's encounter with a godly landowner named Boaz. Ruth had found favor with Boaz because of her selfless desire to glean leftover grain for Naomi from his harvest fields. In chapter three of the book that bears her name, Ruth responds obediently to Naomi's wise instructions to approach Boaz in a request for marriage. It's a beautiful scene, rich in tradition and romance. Little did Naomi know then that her inspired directions would not only lead to a wedding for Ruth and Boaz, but would also bring her the joy of caring for their newborn son.

Naomi's story teaches you that there is always hope with the Lord, regardless of your circumstances. Today, give God the bitterness in your life, trusting He'll turn it into something very pleasant for you in His will and timing.
 
Today's One Thing
Take your most troubling need to the Lord and allow Him to comfort you.
 
Going Deeper
Ruth 3:1-13; Ruth 4:13-17; 2 Corinthians 1:3-11