Devotional for the day

[Judy Harder]

Daily Devotionals January 21, 2009

The Perfect Sentence

READ: Exodus 3:13-18
Who is like You, O Lord, among the gods? Who is like You, glorious in holiness, fearful in praises, doing wonders? -Exodus 15:11

As a young girl writing in my diary, my secret ambition was to compose the perfect sentence. I wondered what it would look and sound like. Perhaps it would include a strong verb and colorful adjectives.

My pursuit of the perfect sentence will never be satisfied, but I have found a statement of perfection in Exodus 3:14. When the Lord God called Moses from the burning bush, He told him that he had been chosen to bring His people out of bondage in Egypt (v.10). Moses, who was anxious about this responsibility, wondered what to say if the Israelites doubted him and asked who he was representing.

The Lord replied, "I AM WHO I AM" (v.14). By using His unique name, He offered Moses a glimpse of the nature of His eternal existence in one sentence. You might say it's a statement of perfection!

Bible commentator G. Bush writes this about God's description of Himself: "He, in distinction from all others, is the one only true God, the God who really is . . . . The eternal, self-existent, and immutable Being; the only being who can say that He always will be what He always has been."

God says, "I AM WHO I AM." He and His name are perfect. In reverence we are to bow before Him.  - Anne Cetas

For Further Study
At the name of Jesus, every knee will one day bow.
To learn about His name read The Amazing Prophecy
Of Names at


http://www.rbc.org/bible-study/discovery-series/bookletDetail.aspx?id=48130


Looking for perfection? Look to Jesus.

Market Resistance
By Os Hillman

"If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him" (James 1:5-6).

Have you ever heard someone say, "He was before his time?" There are many examples of people who invented a product or service in a time when the market was not ready to embrace the product yet. Other things had to develop before the product could be a success.

George Washington Carver experienced this. Born around 1861 during the Civil War, he was a man who should have been a victim to his circumstances. Discriminated against constantly, he lost his mother to slave traders. As a young boy he cried out to God in the midst of his circumstances and God heard him. God gave George an indomitable persevering spirit and he was highly motivated to learn.

Carver discovered that Southern farmers who planted cotton for hundreds of years needed to plant a new crop because the soil had worn out and the farmers were going into interminable debt as a result. To restore the soil Carver advised the planting of peanuts and sweet potatoes instead of cotton. After much persuasion, planters gradually increased their peanut and sweet potato acreage, until these became the number-one crops in the South. However, there was not substantial market for the peanuts and sweet potatoes. Forced to let the product rot in the fields, the farmers ended up losing more money then before.

This situation placed a great deal of pressure on Carver. He took the problem to God in prayer and said, "Mr. Creator, why did You make the peanut?" Many years later, he shared that God led him back to his lab and worked with him to discover some 300 marketable products from the peanut including lard, mayonnaise, cheese, shampoo, instant coffee, flour, sop, face powder, plastics, adhesives, axle grease, and pickles.

Likewise, from the sweet potato he made more than 100 discoveries, among them starch, library paste, vinegar, shoe blacking, ink, and molasses. Because of these new products, the demand for peanuts and sweet potatoes grew and literally transformed the Southern economy.*

Has God made you an inventor? Ask him to help you bring your product to market.

*Adapted from More Than Conquerors, John Woodridge, General Editor, Moody Press, 820 N LaSalle St Chicago, IL 60610-3284 p. 311, 1992.
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

"You shall not misuse the name of the LORD your God, for the LORD will not hold any guiltless who misuses his name." Exodus 20:7 NIV

Thoughts for Today

This is the third of the Ten Commandments and emphasizes right thinking regarding the name of the Lord. Most of us want our names to be spoken correctly and with respect. God, whose name is above every name, desires-and deserves-his name to be used with the greatest respect and honor.

Consider this

Although this commandment is correctly viewed as prohibiting profanity and blasphemy, it means more than that. It also means we are never to take the Lord's reputation lightly. If we call ourselves Christian, we are privileged to use his name. And we dishonor his precious name every time we say or do something that does not show honor or respect for him  when we hurt or condemn rather than showing love to others.

We should be careful not to take God's name frivolously in conversation or lightly in worship. We should avoid movies and TV programs that use his name in profanity or show other signs of disrespect.

Let us use the Lord's name with reverence and honor him in all we say, in all we do and in all that we are.

Prayer

Father, help me to honor your name not only in my speech, but in every thought, in my attitudes and in all that I do. 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 e-mail to info@LivingFree.org.
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Recall What God Remembers
Thus says the Lord: 'I remember . . . the kindness of your youth . . .' -Jeremiah 2:2
Am I as spontaneously kind to God as I used to be, or am I only expecting God to be kind to me? Does everything in my life fill His heart with gladness, or do I constantly complain because things don't seem to be going my way? A person who has forgotten what God treasures will not be filled with joy. It is wonderful to remember that Jesus Christ has needs which we can meet- "Give Me a drink" (John 4:7). How much kindness have I shown Him in the past week? Has my life been a good reflection on His reputation?

God is saying to His people, "You are not in love with Me now, but I remember a time when you were." He says, "I remember . . . the love of your betrothal . . ." (Jeremiah 2:2). Am I as filled to overflowing with love for Jesus Christ as I was in the beginning, when I went out of my way to prove my devotion to Him? Does He ever find me pondering the time when I cared only for Him? Is that where I am now, or have I chosen man's wisdom over true love for Him? Am I so in love with Him that I take no thought for where He might lead me? Or am I watching to see how much respect I get as I measure how much service I should give Him?

As I recall what God remembers about me, I may also begin to realize that He is not what He used to be to me. When this happens, I should allow the shame and humiliation it creates in my life, because it will bring godly sorrow, and "godly sorrow produces repentance . . ." (2 Corinthians 7:10).

God Bless

[Judy Harder]

Daily Devotionals January 22, 2009

The God Of Victory
READ: 2 Corinthians 2:14-17
Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. -Romans 12:21

In Greek mythology, Nike was the goddess of victory. Nike fought on the side of the Olympian gods, gaining a victory over the mighty Titans. As a result, she became a symbol of winning. But Nike's alleged powers were not just limited to warfare. She also became a favorite goddess of athletes who wanted to win in competitive sports. The Romans adopted her into their worship and gave her the Latin name Victoria.

In the Greco-Roman world where Paul taught, victory was highly valued. So when he expressed Christian truth, he used words his audience could understand. In his letters, he described Christ as the One who leads us in a military procession of triumph (2 Cor. 2:14-17) and compared the Christian life to someone training for the ancient Olympic games (1 Cor. 9:24-27).

Paul also used the word for victory in reference to our struggles with those who intentionally hurt us. "Overcome [be a victor over] evil with good" (Rom. 12:21). This may mean returning kindness for spite or respectfully setting limits on evil behavior. In either case, an attitude of love cannot be generated in our own strength. But in Christ, we have divine power that ancient pagans could only hope for. Jesus Christ is the genuine God of victory.  - Dennis Fisher

Through trials we learn to overcome,
Through Christ our victories are won;
Come lay your burdens at His feet
And find this inner peace so sweet. -Halsey


God will give us the victory when we join Him in the fight.

Masquerading as a Dentist
By Os Hillman

"For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory" (Col 3:2-4).

"Hello, my name is Dr. Bengel. I am a Christian, masquerading as a dentist. What is your name?" I laughed as I met this man for the very first time. He was boldly proclaiming that He wanted to be known by who he was in Christ instead of who he was in his occupation.

If Christ is Lord over all of life, then He must be Lord over work, too. Our identity must be wrapped up in who we are, not just what we do. "Whatever we do for work, we should do it in the name of the Lord Jesus" (Col 3:17), that is, with a concern for His approval and in a manner that honors Him.

The Spirit empowers us to live and work with Christ-likeness. Christ gives the Holy Spirit to help us live in a way that pleases Him that has enormous implications for how we do our jobs.

God values our work even when the product has no spiritual value. A common measure of the significance of a job is its perceived value from the eternal perspective. Will the work "last"? Will it "really count" for eternity? The assumption is that God values work for eternity, but not work for the here and now. This is not a biblical truth, but heresy. Keep in mind the following when you are tempted to deem secular work as second-class Christianity.

God Himself has created a world which is time-bound and temporary (2 Pet. 3:10-11).
God promises rewards to people in everyday jobs, based on their attitude and conduct (Eph. 6:7, 9; Col. 3:23, 4:1).
God cares about the everyday needs of people as well as their spiritual needs. He cares whether people have food, clothing, shelter, and so forth.
God cares about people, who will enter eternity. To the extent that a job serves the needs of people, He values it because He values people.*
Your work does matter to God. You are called to first to be a Christian, but masquerading as a doctor, lawyer, construction worker, secretary, or whatever.

*Adapted from Study notes from the Word In Life Study Bible, copyright 1993, 1996, by Thomas Nelson, Inc. All rights reserved. Used by permission. The study notes from the Word In Life Study Bible appearing at this web site are for personal use only.

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

"Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy." Exodus 20:8 NIV

Thoughts for Today

The fourth commandment focuses on setting aside a time for rest and worship and clearly shows that God is concerned about our time.

In this day and age, time seems to be a real issue for most people. We have time management courses and an unending stream of electronic devices to help us organize, schedule and remember.

God wants us to balance work with rest and worship. Even he set aside a day of rest after six days of creation. Jesus set aside times to rest away from the crowds. And so we need to learn to balance all our busy activities with rest and worship. Sabbath means rest. God told us to set aside this time because he loves us and knows we need it. Without a special time to rest and worship, our focus on God will become dim. We will tend to stress out and to suffer physically and emotionally, as well as spiritually.

Consider this...

Jesus said that the Sabbath was made for man. It is a time to regroup for the coming days. A time to focus on God. A time to enjoy our family and to experience rest and recreation.

God has given us this gift. Let's enjoy it!

Prayer

Lord, thank you for the Sabbath, for this special time for rest and worship. Help me learn to balance my time and activities and not neglect the Sabbath. 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 e-mail to info@LivingFree.org.

Am I Looking To God?
Look to Me, and be saved . . . -Isaiah 45:22
Do we expect God to come to us with His blessings and save us? He says, "Look to Me, and be saved . . . ." The greatest difficulty spiritually is to concentrate on God, and His blessings are what make it so difficult. Troubles almost always make us look to God, but His blessings tend to divert our attention elsewhere. The basic lesson of the Sermon on the Mount is to narrow all your interests until your mind, heart, and body are focused on Jesus Christ. "Look to Me . . . ."

Many of us have a mental picture of what a Christian should be, and looking at this image in other Christians' lives becomes a hindrance to our focusing on God. This is not salvation- it is not simple enough. He says, in effect, "Look to Me and you are saved," not "You will be saved someday." We will find what we are looking for if we will concentrate on Him. We get distracted from God and irritable with Him while He continues to say to us, "Look to Me, and be saved . . . ." Our difficulties, our trials, and our worries about tomorrow all vanish when we look to God.

Wake yourself up and look to God. Build your hope on Him. No matter how many things seem to be pressing in on you, be determined to push them aside and look to Him. "Look to Me . . . ." Salvation is yours the moment you look.

God Bless

[Judy Harder]

Today's Verse For Saturday, January 24

For this reason I kneel before the Father, from whom his whole family in heaven and on earth derives its name. I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge--that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. Ephesians 3:14-19 NIV

January 24, 2009
Small Is Beautiful

READ: John 6:53-71
Who has despised the day of small things? —Zechariah 4:10Just the other day someone said of a friend, "This man is destined for a great ministry," by which he meant he was headed for the big time—a high-profile church with a big budget.

It made me wonder: Why do we think that God's call is necessarily upwardly mobile? Why wouldn't He send His best workers to labor for a lifetime in some small place? Aren't there people in obscure places who need to be evangelized and taught? God is not willing that any perish.

Jesus cared about the individual as well as the masses. He taught large crowds if they appeared, but it never bothered Him that His audience grew smaller every day. Many left Him, John said (John 6:66), a fickle attrition that would have thrown most of us into high panic. Yet Jesus pressed on with those the Father gave Him.

We live in a culture where bigger is better, where size is the measure of success. It takes a strong person to resist that trend, especially if he or she is laboring in a small place.

But size is nothing; substance is everything. Whether you're pastoring a small church or leading a small Bible study or Sunday school class, serve them with all your heart. Pray, love, teach by word and example. Your little place is not a steppingstone to greatness. It is greatness.  — David H. Roper

The Lord will give you help and strength
For work He bids you do;
To serve Him from a heart of love
Is all He asks of you. —Fasick


Little is much when God is in it.

God Bless

[Judy Harder]

Today's Verse For Sunday, January 25

Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings. And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast. To him be the power for ever and ever. Amen. 1 Peter 5:6-11 NIV

  January 25, 2009
Benediction Blessing

READ: Numbers 6:22-27
The Lord bless you and keep you. —Numbers 6:24 Our church introduced a new practice for the close of our traditional morning worship service. We turn to one another and sing the familiar Aaronic blessing the Lord gave to Moses to give to Israel: "The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make His face shine upon you . . ." (Num. 6:24-26). Our hearts are uplifted as we mutually catch the eye of a fellow believer and extend our blessing to him or her.

One Sunday, I noticed a heartwarming and special exchange that has now become a weekly event. In a pew near the front sat Oscar and Marian Carlson, faithful followers of Jesus Christ and devoted partners for the 62 years of their married life. When we began to sing, Oscar reached over and took Marian's hands in his. They sang the opening words of this special blessing to each other before looking to others. Everyone nearby sneaked a peek at the look of love and tenderness on their faces.

A benediction is not simply a ritualistic closing; it's a genuine prayerful wish for God's goodness to follow the other person. In offering it to one another, Oscar and Marian exemplify its warmest and deepest meaning. In blessing others, we express gratitude for what God has done for us through Christ's death (Heb. 13:20-21).  — David C. Egner

Bless me, Lord, and make me a blessing;
I'll gladly your message convey;
Use me to help some poor needy soul,
And make me a blessing today. —Anon.

God gives blessing to us so we can be a blessing to others.

God Bless

[Judy Harder]

Daily Devotionals January 26, 2009

Cod Liver Oil Coercion
READ: John 16:8-11
When the Helper comes, whom I shall send to you from the Father, the Spirit of truth who proceeds from the Father, He will testify of Me. -John 15:26

A woman bought a bottle of cod liver oil to give to her dog so he could have a healthier and shinier coat. Every morning, she pried the dog's jaws open and forced the liquid down his throat. He struggled, but she persisted. He doesn't know what's good for him! she thought. Faithfully, each day she repeated the process.

One day, however, the bottle tipped over and she released her grip on the dog for just a moment to wipe up the mess. The dog sniffed at the fishy liquid and began lapping up what she had spilled. He actually loved the stuff. He had simply objected to being coerced!

Sometimes we use a similar method in telling others about Christ. Called buttonholing, it's an intense, in-your-face kind of confrontation. While earnestly desiring to share the gospel, we may end up repelling people instead. In our sincere but overly enthusiastic attempt, we create resistance.

We are called to share the good news, but we are not responsible for someone's acceptance or rejection of Christ. It's not our job to try to convict someone of sin. That's the Holy Spirit's responsibility (John 16:.

As you tell others of Christ's sacrifice, be sensitive. Know when to slow down and let God and His Word do the convicting and drawing to Himself.  - Cindy Hess Kasper

The Spirit's role is to convict
The world of all their sin
So they will seek forgiveness and
Be cleansed and changed within. -Sper


The Spirit convicts so that Christ might cleanse.

Out of Your Comfort Zone
By Os Hillman

"And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work" (2 Cor 9:.

Have you ever been given an assignment at work that was beyond your perceived ability?

When I was in my late twenties I made a career change which necessitated a job change. I decided to apply for a job that involved selling advertising on golf score cards. Usually this meant going into small towns and making sales calls to small business owners in that community. Not an easy job for a rookie in his first sales job.

At first the two non-Christian owners refused to hire me because my answers to their questions led to me discussing my faith in Christ. They felt I should be in the ministry, not sales. However, they reluctantly decided to take a chance on me and sent me to small towns in Kentucky to sell golf scorecards in the middle of winter. Little did I know that they were trying to set me up for failure and did not think I had any chance of success.

I got into my Volkswagen bus and headed for the hills of Kentucky. As I took on my new job I told the Lord I was not qualified for this and He would have to help me to be successful. After a week of selling and sleeping in my car at night, I returned with a full inventory of sales from several cities. When I walked into the office and met with the owners, they looked at me with total surprise. They could not believe I had been successful. I would go on to work two years at this company, become an executive with them, and play a key role in leading one of the partners to Christ.

Do you have a major challenge in your work life? Ask God to help you be successful in your assignment. God delights in showing His children His power so you can abound in your good work.

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

"And the boy Samuel continued to grow in stature and in favor with the LORD and with men." 1 Samuel 2:26 NIV

Thoughts for Today

When your children reach school age, they enter an entirely new phase of their lives. They attend school and have new authorities and new rules they are expected to obey. Their horizons are expanding. They will make new friends and face new challenges.

It is your task and privilege to guide them during these times of change. Be their source of security, their source of information, their source of love. You will watch and teach and guide as they grow in stature as well as in favor with God and man.

The key to parenting during the school-age years is encouragement! Consistent discipline and training remain important, but it is through encouragement, not pushing, that your children will grow to like themselves and to be all they can be.

Consider this...

Think of some practical ways you can encourage your children during these elementary school years. Praise them. Compliment them. Take an interest in their activities, in what they are learning. Value their opinions. Spend time with them ... and learn to listen.

Prayer

Father, thank you for my children. Teach me to be a godly parent. Help me understand them and find ways to encourage them. Enable me to watch and teach and guide as they grow in stature as well as in favor with God and man. In Jesus' name ...

These thoughts were drawn from...

Godly Parenting: Parenting Skills at Each Stage of Growth by N. Elizabeth Holland, M.D. This study addresses parenting skills from the time of conception until the child has reached adulthood. It suggests methods for raising healthy, godly children in an increasingly secular society. Specific emphasis is placed on communication and teaching skills, discipline, protection and sexual issues at each age. 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.

If you are the parent, grandparent or teacher of children about 8-11 years old, we encourage you to consider our new curriculum for children ...

Insight Group: Empowering Kids for Life. Join J.C.(Jesus Cares) bulldog as he teaches children how to "live free" by setting appropriate boundaries. Using the eight objectives from 2 Peter 1:3-11, the Empowering Kids for Life workbook and facilitator's guide will give children the tools they need to build their own "tower of power" to avoid life-controlling problems.

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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Look Again and Consecrate
READ:
If God so clothes the grass of the field . . . , will He not much more clothe you . . . ? -Matthew 6:30
A simple statement of Jesus is always a puzzle to us because we will not be simple. How can we maintain the simplicity of Jesus so that we may understand Him? By receiving His Spirit, recognizing and relying on Him, and obeying Him as He brings us the truth of His Word, life will become amazingly simple. Jesus asks us to consider that "if God so clothes the grass of the field . . ." how "much more" will He clothe you, if you keep your relationship right with Him? Every time we lose ground in our fellowship with God, it is because we have disrespectfully thought that we knew better than Jesus Christ. We have allowed "the cares of this world" to enter in (Matthew 13:22), while forgetting the "much more" of our heavenly Father.

"Look at the birds of the air . . ." (Matthew 6:26). Their function is to obey the instincts God placed within them, and God watches over them. Jesus said that if you have the right relationship with Him and will obey His Spirit within you, then God will care for your "feathers" too.

"Consider the lilies of the field . . ." (Matthew 6:28). They grow where they are planted. Many of us refuse to grow where God plants us. Therefore, we don't take root anywhere. Jesus said if we would obey the life of God within us, He would look after all other things. Did Jesus Christ lie to us? Are we experiencing the "much more" He promised? If we are not, it is because we are not obeying the life God has given us and have cluttered our minds with confusing thoughts and worries. How much time have we wasted asking God senseless questions while we should be absolutely free to concentrate on our service to Him? Consecration is the act of continually separating myself from everything except that which God has appointed me to do. It is not a one-time experience but an ongoing process. Am I continually separating myself and looking to God every day of my life?

God Bless

[Judy Harder]

Daily Devotionals January 27, 2009

Prayer Circles
READ: Luke 18:9-14
Everyone who exalts himself will be humbled. -Luke 18:14

Around the circle the 6th-grade girls went, taking turns praying for each other in the Bible-study group. "Father in heaven," Anna prayed, "please help Tonya not to be so boy-crazy." Tonya added with a giggle, "And help Anna to stop acting so horrible in school and bothering other kids." Then Talia prayed, "Lord, help Tonya to listen to her mother instead of always talking back."

Although the requests were real, the girls seemed to enjoy teasing their friends by pointing out their flaws in front of the others instead of caring about their need for God's help. Their group leader reminded them about the seriousness of talking to almighty God and the importance of evaluating their own hearts.

If we use prayer to point out the faults of others while ignoring our own, we're like the Pharisee in Jesus' parable. He prayed, "God, I thank You that I am not like other men-extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this tax collector" (Luke 18:11). Instead, we're to be like the man who asked God to be merciful to him, "a sinner" (v.13).

Let's be careful not to let our prayers become a listing of others' flaws. The kind of prayer God desires flows out of a humble evaluation of our own sinful hearts.  - Anne Cetas

Lord, teach us how to pray aright,
Oh, lead us in Your way;
Humbly we bow in Your pure light;
Lord, teach us how to pray. -Anon.

The highest form of prayer comes from the depths of a humble heart.

Father, Son and Holy Scriptures?
By Os Hillman

"Jesus answered: Don't you know me, Philip, even after I have been among you such a long time?'" (John 14:9).

The disciples had been with Jesus for three years. They'd seen miracles - dead men came back to life, the sick were healed, and water was turned to wine. These were but a few of the hundreds of miracles they saw Jesus perform. However, even after these experiences, they lacked one important thing - intimacy with Jesus. They didn't really know Jesus.

This must have been a great disappointment to Jesus. He'd invested so much into developing a close and intimate relationship with the twelve. Consider that they spent three years with their Master. They learned about Him during those years. However, they had knowledge without intimacy. They experienced God's power individually and He even performed miracles through their own lives. Sometimes it is easier to do the work of God without the intimacy with God.

A friend once commented about the current condition of much of the mainline churches today: "You'd think the trinity was the Father, Son and Holy Scriptures versus the Father, Son and Holy Spirit." There's never been a better description of the Church today.

But, alas, this is a challenge to my own walk with God. It is easy for me to fall into this trap of working so hard for Jesus that I forget to work with Jesus. Jesus desires intimacy more than works. He tells us in John 15:5: "I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. If anyone does not remain in me, he is like a branch that is thrown away and withers; such branches are picked up, thrown into the fire and burned." Whatever works we do must be a fruit of our intimacy with Him.

Lord, help us not to just know about you. We desire to know you.

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!

Details and Online Registration

Living Free Every Day®
Today's Scripture

"Love is always supportive ..." 1 Corinthians 13:7 CEV

Thoughts for Today

When your children enter school, they will likely be more quiet and shy than in the past. This is a normal change.

At this point, your children are completely verbal but will also communicate with you using body language. Show your loving support by learning to interpret what they are saying to you and by responding appropriately. He (or she) might say, "Things went ok at school," yet you see tears in his eyes. He might say, "I'm not angry," as he clenches and unclenches his fist. He may express insecurity by just needing a hug.

Consider this...

The best time for family communication is meal times. Ask your children questions. Respect their opinion even if you don't agree. Ask why they feel the way they do and offer alternatives.

If your children go outside your home to school, talk to them each day about what they have learned, not only in the classroom, but also from their friends. If they report questionable information or behavior or attitudes, help them think through the situation. Help them to apply what they know of right and wrong.

Prayer

Father, teach me to lovingly support my children by "listening" to body language, as well as words, and responding wisely. In Jesus' name ...

These thoughts were drawn from...

Godly Parenting: Parenting Skills at Each Stage of Growth by N. Elizabeth Holland, M.D. This study addresses parenting skills from the time of conception until the child has reached adulthood. It suggests methods for raising healthy, godly children in an increasingly secular society. Specific emphasis is placed on communication and teaching skills, discipline, protection and sexual issues at each age. 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.

If you are the parent, grandparent or teacher of children about 8-11 years old, we encourage you to consider our new curriculum for children ...

Insight Group: Empowering Kids for Life. Join J.C.(Jesus Cares) bulldog as he teaches children how to "live free" by setting appropriate boundaries. Using the eight objectives from 2 Peter 1:3-11, the Empowering Kids for Life workbook and facilitator's guide will give children the tools they need to build their own "tower of power" to avoid life-controlling problems.   

 
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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Look Again and Think
Do not worry about your life . . . -Matthew 6:25
A warning which needs to be repeated is that "the cares of this world and the deceitfulness of riches," and the lust for other things, will choke out the life of God in us (Matthew 13:22). We are never free from the recurring waves of this invasion. If the frontline of attack is not about clothes and food, it may be about money or the lack of money; or friends or lack of friends; or the line may be drawn over difficult circumstances. It is one steady invasion, and these things will come in like a flood, unless we allow the Spirit of God to raise up the banner against it.

"I say to you, do not worry about your life . . . ." Our Lord says to be careful only about one thing-our relationship to Him. But our common sense shouts loudly and says, "That is absurd, I must consider how I am going to live, and I must consider what I am going to eat and drink." Jesus says you must not. Beware of allowing yourself to think that He says this while not understanding your circumstances. Jesus Christ knows our circumstances better than we do, and He says we must not think about these things to the point where they become the primary concern of our life. Whenever there are competing concerns in your life, be sure you always put your relationship to God first.

"Sufficient for the day is its own trouble" (Matthew 6:34). How much trouble has begun to threaten you today? What kind of mean little demons have been looking into your life and saying, "What are your plans for next month- or next summer?" Jesus tells us not to worry about any of these things. Look again and think. Keep your mind on the "much more" of your heavenly Father (Matthew 6:30).

God Bless

[Judy Harder]

Daily Devotionals January 28, 2009

Murphy's Laws

READ: Exodus 20:1-17
You shall have no other gods before Me. -Exodus 20:3

Murphy's Laws are observations about life that seem to have the weight of experience behind them. You've probably heard this one: "If anything can go wrong, it will." Here's another one: "You can't do just one thing; everything has its consequences."

My own experience seems to confirm many of Murphy's Laws, but it's that second one that I would hang on the wall as a motto. Wrong choices have their consequences. For example, if we choose to live for pleasure, that will affect our children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren (Ex. 20:4-5). If we walk away from God, we may discover that our children have taken that trip with us. Later, even if we return to Him, they may not.

But there is also good news. Devotion to the Lord has its consequences too. Men and women who live in faith before God can have a strong influence on their children and their children's children. If they live a long life, they can witness the effect their faith has had on several generations. What satisfaction it brings to older people to see their posterity living for Christ!

Murphy and the Bible agree on this point: "Everything has its consequences."  - Haddon W. Robinson

If you sow seeds of wickedness,
Sin's harvest you will reap;
But scattered seeds of righteousness
Yield blessings you can keep. -Sper

People who follow Christ lead others in the right direction.

Forgiving Ourselves
By Os Hillman

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. (1 John 1:9)

The murderer was condemned to life in prison. Then one day something amazing happened. The guard came and opened the jail cell. "You are free to go. Someone else is taking your place," said the guard. "How can this be? I am still guilty!" said the prisoner. "Your debt has been paid. You are free to leave," said the guard once more. The prisoner decided not to leave. "I cannot allow another to pay my debt," said the prisoner. Because of his pride he chose to remain in bondage.

Imagine the guilt Peter must have felt when he betrayed the Son of God three times by saying he never knew him. Imagine what he must have felt the moment he reunited with Him after the resurrection.

The hardest person to forgive sometimes is ourselves. It is especially hard for high achievers to forgive themselves. We think we are above such failure. However, the Bible says we all sin and it is impossible to remedy that sin by ourselves.

"If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we claim we have not sinned, we make him out to be a liar and his word has no place in our lives?" (1 John 1:8,10). The question is not whether we will sin, the question is what we will do when we do sin.

There is only one thing for us to do. Go to the cross. Jesus paid for that sin by dying on the cross. Picture yourself writing your sin on a white piece of paper, then pinning it to the cross. Now, leave it there. The cross is for sinners. When Jesus looks at you, He no longer sees your sin. He cannot see the sin because He can only see the cross.

When you come to Jesus with your sin, there is nothing more you can do besides confessing and renouncing your sin. Sometimes it may require restitution with others. However, once you confess your sin and ask forgiveness, it is no longer on the ledger of debts.

Why not choose to walk free. The cell has been opened.

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!

Details and Online Registration

Living Free Every Day®
Today's Scripture

"Direct your children onto the right path, and when they are older, they will not leave it." Proverbs 22:6 NLT

Thoughts for Today

School age children should be given definite chores or responsibilities in your home. Chores appropriate for this age would be carrying out the garbage, making their bed, clearing the table.

You might consider offering payment for extra chores. It is a good way to teach them the value of work. Their basic duties should not be compensated. They need to learn that they are expected to help simply because they are a part of the family.

Consider this...

At 5-6 years, you might want to start a small weekly allowance (perhaps $1-$2) if you have not done so already. Encourage them to save one portion, to tithe one portion, and allow them to choose how they use the remainder. Teach and encourage generosity.

By age 9 or 10, it is helpful to let your children open their own bank account, in their name. A way to encourage saving is to offer each month to match the money they have deposited. They can learn to save for specific items, or special occasions, as well as learning delayed gratification. A child's own bank account can be a source of great pride and can go a long way in promoting responsibility.

Prayer

Father, help my children to develop a sense of responsibility. Give me wisdom and patience in teaching them. In Jesus' name ...

These thoughts were drawn from...

Godly Parenting: Parenting Skills at Each Stage of Growth by N. Elizabeth Holland, M.D. This study addresses parenting skills from the time of conception until the child has reached adulthood. It suggests methods for raising healthy, godly children in an increasingly secular society. Specific emphasis is placed on communication and teaching skills, discipline, protection and sexual issues at each age. 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.

If you are the parent, grandparent or teacher of children about 8-11 years old, we encourage you to consider our new curriculum for children...

Insight Group: Empowering Kids for Life. Join J.C.(Jesus Cares) bulldog as he teaches children how to "live free" by setting appropriate boundaries. Using the eight objectives from 2 Peter 1:3-11, the Empowering Kids for Life workbook and facilitator's guide will give children the tools they need to build their own "tower of power" to avoid life-controlling problems.

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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How Could Someone So Persecute Jesus!

Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me? -Acts 26:14
Are you determined to have your own way in living for God? We will never be free from this trap until we are brought into the experience of the baptism of "the Holy Spirit and fire" (Matthew 3:11). Stubbornness and self-will will always stab Jesus Christ. It may hurt no one else, but it wounds His Spirit. Whenever we are obstinate and self-willed and set on our own ambitions, we are hurting Jesus. Every time we stand on our own rights and insist that this is what we intend to do, we are persecuting Him. Whenever we rely on self-respect, we systematically disturb and grieve His Spirit. And when we finally understand that it is Jesus we have been persecuting all this time, it is the most crushing revelation ever.

Is the Word of God tremendously penetrating and sharp in me as I hand it on to you, or does my life betray the things I profess to teach? I may teach sanctification and yet exhibit the spirit of Satan, the very spirit that persecutes Jesus Christ. The Spirit of Jesus is conscious of only one thing- a perfect oneness with the Father. And He tells us, "Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls" (Matthew 11:29 ). All I do should be based on a perfect oneness with Him, not on a self-willed determination to be godly. This will mean that others may use me, go around me, or completely ignore me, but if I will submit to it for His sake, I will prevent Jesus Christ from being persecuted.

God Bless

[Judy Harder]

Daily Devotionals January 29, 2009

The Aging Process
READ: Psalm 71
Do not cast me off in the time of old age; do not forsake me when my strength fails. -Psalm 71:9

I was having breakfast with a friend who had recently celebrated his 60th birthday. We discussed the "trauma" of the number 6 being the first digit in his age and all that the age of 60 implies (retirement, social security, etc.). We also pondered the fact that he felt so much younger than such a "large" number would seem to indicate.

Then the conversation turned to the lessons, joys, and blessings he'd found in living those 60 years, and he said, "You know, it isn't really that bad. In fact, it's pretty exciting." The lessons of the past had brought a change in how he viewed the present.

Such is the aging process. We learn from our past in order to live in our present-a lesson reflected on by the psalmist: "For You are my hope, O Lord God; You are my trust from my youth" (Ps. 71:5). He continued, "By You I have been upheld from birth; You are He who took me out of my mother's womb. My praise shall be continually of You" (v.6). As the psalmist looked back, he clearly saw the faithfulness of God. With confidence in that faithfulness, he could face the future and its uncertainties-and so can we.

May we say with the psalmist, "I will praise You-and Your faithfulness, O my God!" (v.22).  - Bill Crowder

Great is Thy faithfulness, O God my Father!
There is no shadow of turning with Thee;
Thou changest not, Thy compassions they fail not;
As Thou hast been, Thou forever wilt be. -Chisholm
© Renewal 1951 Hope Publishing Company.

As the years add up, God's faithfulness keeps multiplying.

Why Work?
By Os Hillman

"For even when we were with you, we commanded you this: If anyone will not work, neither shall he eat. For we hear that there are some who walk among you in a disorderly manner, not working at all, but are busybodies. Now those who are such we command and exhort through our Lord Jesus Christ that they work in quietness and eat their own bread." (2 Thess. 3:10-13 NKJV)

Jesus probably spent most of His life working in His family's carpentry business. We know almost nothing of His youth from adolescence until He began His public ministry at about age 30. But we know that His father was a carpenter (Matt. 13:55) and that Jesus also practiced the trade (Mark 6:3). Carpenters worked with wood, metal, and stone to produce furniture and farm implements, and constructed houses and public buildings.

Jesus may have continued His occupation even after He began to teach and travel. Rabbis (or teachers) of the day commonly spent anywhere from one-third to one-half of their time working (most likely with their hands) to provide for themselves. And while Jesus' opponents, many of them rabbis, attacked Him on numerous grounds, they never accused Him of laziness or freeloading. Indeed, He was known to them as a carpenter.[1]

That reputation passed on to the early church. Paul tells the Thessalonians that anyone who has an ability to work should do so. It is God's mandate for every believer and is the place where we can best express the nature of God in everyday life.

Our work allows us to demonstrate integrity. Our work allows us to provide for our families and others in need. Our work allows us to often connect with non-believers. Our work allows us to live out His calling upon our lives. Our work allows us to experience His power in the midst of daily challenges. Our work can be a place of worship when we do it with a motive to glorify Him.

Today, view your work the way God views your work. It is your primary call.

[1] Adapted from Word in life study Bible article, http://www.ivmdl.org/wil.cfm?study=43

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!

Details and Online Registration

Living Free Every Day®
Today's Scripture

"You surely know that your body is a temple where the Holy Spirit lives. The Spirit is in you and is a gift from God. You are no longer your own." 1 Corinthians 6:29 CEV

Thoughts for Today

Begin to teach your school age children about drugs and alcohol. It is very common today for children in grade school to be offered drugs, especially tobacco, alcohol or marijuana. This is true, unfortunately, even in many Christian schools.

Teach them that drug use of any type is not acceptable, and is, in addition, against the law. Teach them to say NO! Ask them how they would handle a situation where drugs were offered. Listen to them and avoid condemnation, but be sure they understand the boundaries you have set and why you have set them.

Consider this...

Teach your children that using anything that harms their body is not pleasing to God. As believers, our bodies are his temple and we should keep ourselves clean and pure for him.

Prayer

Father, help my children understand that their bodies are your dwelling place. Help me teach them the dangers of drugs and prepare them to say NO. Help them make right choices. In Jesus' name ...

These thoughts were drawn from...

Godly Parenting: Parenting Skills at Each Stage of Growth by N. Elizabeth Holland, M.D. This study addresses parenting skills from the time of conception until the child has reached adulthood. It suggests methods for raising healthy, godly children in an increasingly secular society. Specific emphasis is placed on communication and teaching skills, discipline, protection and sexual issues at each age. 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.

If you are the parent, grandparent or teacher of children about 8-11 years old, we encourage you to consider our new curriculum for children...

Insight Group: Empowering Kids for Life. Join J.C.(Jesus Cares) bulldog as he teaches children how to "live free" by setting appropriate boundaries. Using the eight objectives from 2 Peter 1:3-11, the Empowering Kids for Life workbook and facilitator's guide will give children the tools they need to build their own "tower of power" to avoid life-controlling problems.   

 
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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How Could Someone Be So Ignorant!

Who are You, Lord? -Acts 26:15
"The Lord spoke thus to me with a strong hand . . ." (Isaiah 8:11). There is no escape when our Lord speaks. He always comes using His authority and taking hold of our understanding. Has the voice of God come to you directly? If it has, you cannot mistake the intimate insistence with which it has spoken to you. God speaks in the language you know best- not through your ears, but through your circumstances.

God has to destroy our determined confidence in our own convictions. We say, "I know that this is what I should do"-and suddenly the voice of God speaks in a way that overwhelms us by revealing the depths of our ignorance. We show our ignorance of Him in the very way we decide to serve Him. We serve Jesus in a spirit that is not His, and hurt Him by our defense of Him. We push His claims in the spirit of the devil; our words sound all right, but the spirit is that of an enemy. "He . . . rebuked them, and said, 'You do not know what manner of spirit you are of' " (Luke 9:55). The spirit of our Lord in His followers is described in 1 Corinthians 13 .

Have I been persecuting Jesus by an eager determination to serve Him in my own way? If I feel I have done my duty, yet have hurt Him in the process, I can be sure that this was not my duty. My way will not be to foster a meek and quiet spirit, only the spirit of self-satisfaction. We presume that whatever is unpleasant is our duty! Is that anything like the spirit of our Lord- "I delight to do Your will, O my God . . ." (Psalm 40:.

God bless

[Judy Harder]

Daily Devotionals January 30, 2009

Planting Time
READ: Galatians 6:6-10
Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. -Galatians 6:7

Somewhere in the world right now a farmer is dropping seeds into the ground. Soon those seeds will begin to change the place where they were planted. The carefully prepared soil that appears barren today will become a field ready for harvest.

In the same way, New Year's resolutions can be seeds to alter the landscape of life for others and ourselves. This prayer of Saint Francis of Assisi is a powerful model of this longing to bring positive change in a hurting world:

Lord, make me an instrument of Your peace. Where there is hatred, let me sow love; where there is injury, pardon; where there is doubt, faith; where there is despair, hope; where there is darkness, light; and where there is sadness, joy.

A farmer who sows wheat is never surprised when wheat grows from the ground where it was planted. That's the universal law of sowing and reaping. Paul used it to illustrate a corresponding spiritual principle: "Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap" (Gal. 6:7). Our sinful nature says, "Satisfy yourself," while the Spirit urges us to please God (v..

Today is planting time. God has promised: "In due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart" (v.9).  - David C. McCasland

Let's sow good deeds though life be grim
And leave the harvest time with Him;
Let's give and serve as to the Lord
And look to Him for our reward. -Jarvis

Sow today what you want to reap tomorrow.

Greater Works Shall You Do
By Os Hillman

"Jesus of Nazareth was a man accredited by God to you by miracles, wonders, and signs, which God did among you through him, as you yourselves know." (Acts 2:22)

Jesus did all of His miracles as a man, not as God. Let that sink in. This is a profound truth that has major implications for you and me. It changes everything.

Pastor Bill Johnson writes: "Jesus could not heal the sick. Neither could He deliver the tormented from demons or raise the dead. To believe otherwise is to ignore what Jesus said about Himself, and more importantly, to miss the purpose of His self-imposed restriction to live as a man.

Jesus said of Himself: "I tell you the truth, the Son can do nothing by himself; he can do only what he sees his Father doing, because whatever the Father does the Son also does (John 5:19-20)." In the Greek language the word 'nothing' has a unique meaning -- it means NOTHING. Just like it does in English! He had NO supernatural capabilities whatsoever!

While He is 100 percent God, He chose to live with the same limitations that man would face once He was redeemed. He made that point over and over again. Jesus became the model for all who would embrace the invitation to invade the impossible in His name. He performed miracles, wonders, and signs, as a man in right relationship to God... not as God.

If He performed miracles because He was God, then they would be unattainable for us. But if He did them as a man, I am responsible to pursue His lifestyle. Recapturing this simple truth changes everything.. and makes possible a full restoration of the ministry of Jesus in His Church. "[1]

Jesus said you and I will do even greater works than He did. "I tell you the truth, anyone who has faith in me will do what I have been doing. He will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father." (John 14:12-13)

The question for each of us is, "How dependent and obedient to the Holy Spirit are we so we can experience this same power?"

[1]Bill Johnson, When Heaven Invades Earth, Destiny Image, p. 29, Shippensburg, PA 02003

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!

Details and Online Registration

Living Free Every Day®
Today's Scripture

"Train up a child in the way he should go [and in keeping with his individual gift or bent], and when he is old he will not depart from it." Proverbs 22:6 AMP

Thoughts for Today

Although school is now an integral part in the teaching of your children, you remain their ultimate authority. Don't neglect their training during these years. God has appointed you as their parent, their authority, and you must continue to make choices and decisions that will affect their well being.

Now you may begin to allow them more freedom in some choices. Even when they make bad ones, they will gain valuable insights and a deeper understanding of consequences.

Consider this...

Spiritual teaching and training are vital. Continue regular church attendance. Take them, don't send them. Allow them to discuss what they have learned in Sunday school. Have regular family prayer time, letting them participate. Encourage them to pray before bedtime and as they begin each day. You are instilling habits that will remain with them throughout their lives.

Prayer

Father, help me to lovingly train up my children in the way they should go. And may my life be a godly example to them. In Jesus' name ...

These thoughts were drawn from...

Godly Parenting: Parenting Skills at Each Stage of Growth by N. Elizabeth Holland, M.D. This study addresses parenting skills from the time of conception until the child has reached adulthood. It suggests methods for raising healthy, godly children in an increasingly secular society. Specific emphasis is placed on communication and teaching skills, discipline, protection and sexual issues at each age. 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.

If you are the parent, grandparent or teacher of children about 8-11 years old, we encourage you to consider our new curriculum for children...

Insight Group: Empowering Kids for Life. Join J.C.(Jesus Cares) bulldog as he teaches children how to "live free" by setting appropriate boundaries. Using the eight objectives from 2 Peter 1:3-11, the Empowering Kids for Life workbook and facilitator's guide will give children the tools they need to build their own "tower of power" to avoid life-controlling problems.   

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 Dilemma of Obedience

Samuel was afraid to tell Eli the vision -1 Samuel 3:15

God never speaks to us in dramatic ways, but in ways that are easy to misunderstand. Then we say, "I wonder if that is God's voice?" Isaiah said that the Lord spoke to him "with a strong hand," that is, by the pressure of his circumstances (Isaiah 8:11). Without the sovereign hand of God Himself, nothing touches our lives. Do we discern His hand at work, or do we see things as mere occurrences?

Get into the habit of saying, "Speak, Lord," and life will become a romance (1 Samuel 3:9). Every time circumstances press in on you, say, "Speak, Lord," and make time to listen. Chastening is more than a means of discipline- it is meant to bring me to the point of saying, "Speak, Lord." Think back to a time when God spoke to you. Do you remember what He said? Was it Luke 11:13 , or was it 1 Thessalonians 5:23? As we listen, our ears become more sensitive, and like Jesus, we will hear God all the time.

Should I tell my "Eli" what God has shown to me? This is where the dilemma of obedience hits us. We disobey God by becoming amateur providences and thinking, "I must shield 'Eli,' " who represents the best people we know. God did not tell Samuel to tell Eli- he had to decide that for himself. God's message to you may hurt your "Eli," buttrying to prevent suffering in another's life will prove to be an obstruction between your soul and God. It is at your own risk that you prevent someone's right hand being cut off or right eye being plucked out (see Matthew 5:29-30 ).

Never ask another person's advice about anything God makes you decide before Him. If you ask advice, you will almost always side with Satan. ". . . I did not immediately confer with flesh and blood . . ." (Galatians 1:16 ).

God Bless

[Judy Harder]

Daily Devotionals January 31, 2009

A Breach In The Wall
READ: Nehemiah 4:7-18
The lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life-is not of the Father. -1 John 2:16

The 4,000-mile-long Great Wall of China was built to keep out invaders from the north. The first wall was constructed by Shi Huangdi, the first emperor of China, who lived between 259 and 210 bc. But in ad 1644 the Manchus broke through the Great Wall and overran China. They did this by bribing a general of the Ming dynasty to open the gates.

During the reconstruction of ancient Jerusalem, Nehemiah understood the acute danger posed by those who opposed the rebuilding of the city's ruined walls. So he commanded constant vigilance. Half of the workers were to stand watch while half rebuilt the walls (Neh. 4:13-18).

As Christians, we must be vigilant that nothing breaches our spiritual defenses. Even the most mature believer can never afford to let down his guard.

The apostle John warns us of enemies from three quarters. He identifies them as "the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life" (1 John 2:16). These enemies lure us away from God and His Word and leave a gap for the enemy to sneak in.

Let's be alert to what entices us today. A lapse opens the door to sin, which in turn may develop into a habit that overwhelms us. Don't permit a breach in the wall.  - C. P. Hia

It may not be some heinous deed
That chills our hearts and chokes the seed;
It's often just a trifling toy
That grabs our eye and steals our joy. -Gustafson

The world is passing away, and the lust of it; but he who does the will of God abides forever. -1 John 2:17

Creating a Memory
By Os Hillman

"The greatest among you will be your servant" (Matt 23:11).

Ken Blanchard, the author of the One-Minute Manager, once shared a story about what can happen when individuals in a company model servant leadership, no matter where they are on the totem pole.

A business consultant was training more than 3000 employees of a mid-western grocery chain to approach their jobs with a goal of creating a memory for their customers. She stated that "this is what will distinguish your store from all others."

Johnny was a 19-year-old bag boy that had down-syndrome. His first response to the consultant's suggestion was "I'm just a 'bag boy.'" Nevertheless, he went home and shared what the consultant said with his mother. They began to ponder the consultant's words about how he could create a memory for his customers. Johnny had a habit of collecting inspirational thoughts that he would often read. He decided he would begin printing these sayings and place one in each of the bags of his customers. When customers came through the line he would place the sayings in their bag and say, "I've included some of my favorite sayings in your bag in hopes it will encourage you today. Thanks for shopping with us."

After just a few weeks, an amazing thing began to happen. One day the store manager noticed that all the customers were lined up at only one cashier station when there were other stations open. He began to panic, thinking the other stations were broken. After further investigation he found this was not the case. Actually, customers wanted to come through Johnny's line in order to get his saying of the day.

One woman came up to the manager and said, "I used to come to the store only once a week, but now I come everyday!" Johnny's example spread to other departments in the store. The florist began giving a flower to each florist customer. The meat department put Snoopy stickers on each meat order with a special greeting. This one act by a bag boy changed the entire climate of the store.*

How can you create a memory for someone in your workplace today? Jesus was all about creating memories.

*Ken Blanchard, presentation made at 2004 His Presence in the Workplace conference, San Antonio, TX, 2005

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!

Gaining Godly Wisdom

When we have godly wisdom, we will see things from an eternal perspective-not from a worldly, temporal perspective. And when we see things from an eternal perspective, we are going to accept the challenges and unexpected turns of life. We will be able to face obstacles, turning them from hindrances into stepping stones.

In Ecclesiastes 7 we read, "Wisdom, like an inheritance, is a good thing and benefits those who see the sun. Wisdom is a shelter as money is a shelter, but the advantage of knowledge is this: that wisdom preserves the life of its possessor" (Ecclesiastes 7:11-12).

Solomon is saying that when we face challenging situations in life, wisdom will be far more precious than a very rich inheritance. Godly wisdom keeps its value; godly wisdom will never be lost. The person who has godly wisdom will be able to use wealth wisely. The person who has godly wisdom will be able to bless others-but a foolish person with a billion dollars can blow it in a few days.

Godly wisdom gives us perspective, vision, and a purpose for living. If we have godly wisdom, then we will have balance in life. When we have godly wisdom, we are going to walk by faith-both on the familiar roads of life and the unfamiliar ones. When we face difficult circumstances, most of us forget all of the blessings that God has given us-and we focus on our problems. But when we begin to think of all the blessings that God has given us, we will be overwhelmed with thanksgiving.

Solomon says that wisdom will give us power for living. "Wisdom makes one wise man more powerful than ten rulers in a city" (Ecclesiastes 7:19). We are going to face temptation, manipulation, seduction and deception-from Satan as well as from others. We can expect to face all of that in life. But godly wisdom will give us power to discern Satan's traps. It will give us power to overcome temptations and power to defeat the devil. It will give us power to avoid the entrapments of this world. And it will give us power to walk in His righteousness alone.

Solomon determines that wisdom is valuable, something worth seeking: "All this I tested by wisdom and I said, 'I am determined to be wise'-but this was beyond me. Whatever wisdom may be, it is far off and most profound-who can discover it?" (Ecclesiastes 7:23-24).

How do we get godly wisdom? We receive it when the Holy Spirit of God comes to indwell in us. (The Holy Spirit has many names, and the Spirit of Wisdom is foremost among them.) And after that, we must continually, on a daily basis, be filled with the Spirit of God.  It is important to study Scripture, to pray, and to seek the counsel and teaching of godly leaders.

It begins with declaring Jesus as the Lord of your life and the Savior of your soul-because the Spirit of Wisdom cannot come and dwell in you until Jesus becomes the Lord of your life. Until you begin to live under the lordship of Jesus Christ, you will not understand and you will not experience daily living with the Spirit of Wisdom. If you have never declared Jesus to be the Savior of your soul, if you never have submitted to Him as the Lord of your life, you can do that today.

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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.
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Do You See Your Calling?
. . . separated to the gospel of God. . . -Romans 1:1
Our calling is not primarily to be holy men and women, but to be proclaimers of the gospel of God. The one all-important thing is that the gospel of God should be recognized as the abiding reality. Reality is not human goodness, or holiness, or heaven, or hell- it is redemption. The need to perceive this is the most vital need of the Christian worker today. As workers, we have to get used to the revelation that redemption is the only reality. Personal holiness is an effect of redemption, not the cause of it. If we place our faith in human goodness we will go under when testing comes.

Paul did not say that he separated himself, but "when it pleased God, who separated me . . ." (Galatians 1:15). Paul was not overly interested in his own character. And as long as our eyes are focused on our own personal holiness, we will never even get close to the full reality of redemption. Christian workers fail because they place their desire for their own holiness above their desire to know God. "Don't ask me to be confronted with the strong reality of redemption on behalf of the filth of human life surrounding me today; what I want is anything God can do for me to make me more desirable in my own eyes." To talk that way is a sign that the reality of the gospel of God has not begun to touch me. There is no reckless abandon to God in that. God cannot deliver me while my interest is merely in my own character. Paul was not conscious of himself. He was recklessly abandoned, totally surrendered, and separated by God for one purpose- to proclaim the gospel of God (see Romans 9:3).

GOD BLESS