Daily Devotion by Zoro @ JC-TV

Weekly Devotion from Jesse

Friday, September 3 This Week
Week of: Aug 29, 2010, Aug 22, 2010, Aug 15, 2010, Aug 8, 2010
Topics: GETTING CLOSER TO GOD, GROWING IN YOUR FAITH, COURAGEOUSLY FOLLOWING GOD

THE REALITY OF HEAVEN

Passage Of the Day:

“Therefore we are always confident and know that as long as we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord. We live by faith, not by sight. We are confident, I say, and would prefer to be away from the body and at home with the Lord.”

2 Corinthians 5:6-8 (New King James Version)

Insight - Application & Encouragement

Insight:

Paul uses the word confident twice in this passage because he knows that God is dependable. A Christian has the full assurance from God that heaven is their home. Anyone who puts their trust in Jesus can be secure with their eternal destiny. These verses make it clear that when a Christian dies, they simply go into the immediate presence of Jesus. This acceptance is not based on our performance but instead on the grace of God through the work of Jesus’ death and resurrection.

A Description Of Heaven: (2 Corinthians 5:1-5)

1) It’s permanent and real.

2) It’s a gift from God, not earned.

3) It’s a massive improvement from life here on earth- perfection.

4) It’s something we groan fro now because it’s so good.

5) It’s guaranteed by the Holy Spirit through Jesus Christ.

God’s Promise Of Heaven Gives Us: (2 Corinthians 5:6-10)

1) A peaceful assurance.

2) An energizing motivation.

3) A glorious focus.

A Description Of Heaven: (2 Corinthians 5:11-6:2)

1) Heaven changes the way you view other people.

2) Heaven influences the way you view yourself.

3) Heaven adds meaning to your work.

4) Heaven makes you bolder than you would normally be.

A Quote:

“If I find in myself a desire which no experience in this world can satisfy, the most probable explanation is that I was made for another world.

If you read history you will find that the Christians who did the most for the present world were just those who thought most of the next. It is since Christians have largely ceased to think of the other world that they have become too ineffective in this.” C.S. Lewis

Application Questions:

1) How can someone be sure that they will go to heaven?

2) Which part of heaven do you look forward to the most?

3) Do you tell other people about heaven?

4) How important is heaven to you?

5) How can you be heavenly minded and still be of earthly action too?

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, Thank you for the gift of heaven. It is so much better than any words I could use to describe it. I thank You that it’s real and perfect. Thank you Jesus for dying for my sins so I could be with you in heaven. Please help me to tell as many people about heaven as I possibly can. Thank you again for Your trustworthy promise about heaven. I pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.

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Weekly Devotion from Jesse

Wednesday, August 11 This Week
Week of: Aug 29, 2010, Aug 22, 2010, Aug 15, 2010, Aug 8, 2010
Topics: GETTING CLOSER TO GOD, GROWING IN YOUR FAITH, DISCOVERING GOD'S WILL, REAL FRIENDSHIPS, LEADERSHIP ROLES, TRIALS

COMFORT WHEN THERE IS NONE

Passage Of the Day:

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God.

2 Corinthians 1:3-4 (New King James Version)

Insight - Application & Encouragement

Insight:

Not too many people want troubles, but troubles have a way of finding us. Almost everyone wants comfort, but comfort can be difficult to find. This passage gives us great hope when we are surrounded by troubles. There is a source of comfort that doesn’t run dry. These verses tell us that we can be resilient and triumphant through Jesus Christ.

Application:

When trouble enters the scene (2 Corinthians 1:1-5):

1) Don’t let trouble alter your identity: Remember that you are a child of God and accepted and loved by your Heavenly Father.

2) Running away from God won’t minimize your trouble: Unfortunately, when times get tough many people stop going to church, stop praising, stop fellowship and stop reading the Bible.

3) Trouble tries to destroy your trust in Jesus: Even Jesus experienced massive pain, He can relate to you.

With God’s comfort you can:

1) Assist someone in need (2 Corinthians 1:6-7).

2) Speak your testimony (2 Corinthians 1:8-9).

3) Pray with confidence (2 Corinthians 1:10-11).

4) Overcome false rumors (2 Corinthians 1:12-14).

5) Have peace when changes come (2 Corinthians 1:15-23).

6) Have honest conversations (2 Corinthians 1:24-2:4).

Questions:

1) Where do most people turn for comfort?

2) Are there things that can comfort you and be destructive at the same time?

3) What makes God’s comfort so good?

4) What are some of your habits when you are in pain?

5) When has God given you great amounts of comfort?

6) Who needs your comfort today?

7) How can you share your testimony more often?

Prayer:

Father God, thank you for the comfort that you bring to our hearts, minds, and souls. Thanks you for helping me to release my burdens and let you carry them. Help me to not run away from you in times of pain. I want to know you better Jesus and rest in your closeness. Thank you that your love is unconditional and your presence is dependable. I pray this all in Your name Lord Jesus. Amen.

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Weekly Devotion from Jesse

Sunday, August 1 This Week
Week of: Aug 29, 2010, Aug 22, 2010, Aug 15, 2010, Aug 8, 2010
Topics: GETTING CLOSER TO GOD, GROWING IN YOUR FAITH

ONLY GOD

Passage Of the Day:

Praise the Lord. How good it is to sing praises to our God, how pleasant and fitting to praise Him! The Lord builds up Jerusalem; he gathers the exiles of Israel. He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds. He determines the number of stars and calls them each by name. Great is our Lord and mighty in power; His understanding has no limit.

Psalm 127:1-5 (New King James Version)

Insight - Application & Encouragement

Insights:

The psalmist writes that no one has power and strength like our God. He is able to gather the exiles, heal the brokenhearted, and determine the stars. In fact, his understanding is limitless because there isn't anything that He doesn't fully comprehend. So why try to get through life with just your own strength? You will run out and get tired and weary. Turn to the One who is never lacking and receive from Him as you admit your needs and ask for His mighty help.

Scientific Data:

Stars are not scattered throughout the universe randomly. God cares for the stars, and He knows them each by name. They are arranged in galaxies. The earth is part of the Milky Way galaxy. Listen to some facts about stars and meditate on the vast work of god's hand in creation.
There are about 200 billion stars in our galaxy. The sun is just one of those stars. The sun moves at 160 miles per second. It would take the sun about 200 million years to travel across the entire galaxy. That is one big galaxy! Our minds can barely comprehend the size of our own galaxy. Do you know how many galaxies there are? About 100 billion galaxies exist and they are finding new galaxies all of the time. Only God could sustain and know such a universe.

Application:

In psalm 147, we learn that God cares for the earth, the grass, the cattle, and the raven. How much more does He know and care for you. Read Matthew chapter 6 and Luke chapter 11 now. God is an expert on you. He actually knows you better than you know your yourself. Your knowledge of yourself might seem big, but it's very small compared with how well God knows you. Not only does He know you, but He loves you even more. When Jesus dies on the cross, he paid the penalty for your sins. He knew that you need forgiveness and mercy which he fully supplied for you therough Jesus. So that when you put your trust in Him you will recieve an eternity where all of your needs will be met.

Questions:

1) How many stars can you name?
2) How many stars can God name?
3) How can looking into the sky give you confidence in God?
4) What helps you to not worry?
5) How do you access God's strength in your life?
6) What is it like to not have God's power?
7) Is Jesus your Savior?

Prayer:

Father God, You amaze me. My brain can barely grasp what You have put together in this universe. Your hands are good and strong. I pray that I would trust you more in my decisions and my actions. I want to worship you with wonder and awe. I bow down before You. You are my maker. You know me in every aspect. I thank You today for your great love. I pray this in Jesus name. Amen.

More about Jesse
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Weekly Devotion from Jesse

Wednesday, July 28 This Week
Week of: Aug 29, 2010, Aug 22, 2010, Aug 15, 2010, Aug 8, 2010
Topics: GETTING CLOSER TO GOD, COURAGEOUSLY FOLLOWING GOD

HOW DREAMS BECOME REALITY

Passage Of the Day:

But now be strong, O Zerubbabel, declares the Lord. ‘Be strong, O Joshua son of Jehozadak, the high priest. Be strong, all you people of the land,’ declares the Lord, ‘and work. For I am with you,’ declares the Lord Almighty.

Haggai 2:4 (New King James Version)

Insight - Application & Encouragement

Three times in this verse God tells the people to be strong. The situation is that God wants His people to build a temple because the temple has been destroyed by the Babylonians. There are challenges financially, spiritually, and with overcoming apathy. The dream of a new temple will not be easily accomplished. It will involve rolling up their sleeves and really going to work. But work alone will not accomplish the goal, ultimately the Lord will need to bless the dream with His vision, provision, and direction. God reassures the people that this dream will become a reality because he is with them.

A Story:

In 1924, Gutzon Borglum was in South Dakota looking at the Black Hills when he had a vision of the potential. He and his team used dynamite and jackhammers to remove 400,000 tons of rock. And he began to sculpt the faces of presidents Washington, Lincoln, Jefferson, and Roosevelt. Borglum declared, “American history shall march across this skyline.” The dream proceeded the reality.

Application:

Here are some steps from the book of Haggai that relate directly to us today as we desire to see dreams become realities in our lives:

1) Make sure you are aligned with God’s word: not every good idea is a God idea. It has to be consistent with Scripture too.

2) Pay attention to your strength stealers so you can overcome them: These will be people who try to bring you down and discourage your work.

3) Find something that is worthy of your time and energy: Don’t get distracted and chase after meaningless goals.

4) Know that God’s best results usually come after faithful patience: There might not be instant microwave speed results. Stay the course.

5) Operate within God’s grace which is your reason for success: Don’t try to do more or less than what God wants. Keep a pure and humble walk so His support will be strong.

A Quote:

T.E. Lawrence said, “All people dream but not equally. Those who dream by night in the dusty recesses of their minds awake to the day to find it was all vanity. But the dreamers of the day are dangerous (in the good way)- for the many act out their dreams with open eyes to make it possible.”

Questions:

1) What dreams have in terms of doing something for God?
2) Are those dreams alive today or have they been changed?
3) Is there an area of your life now where God wants you to be strong and work?
4) How do you know when an idea is really from God?
5) Are your prayers aligned with your dreams?
6) Who is someone that you could affirm today that is serving God?

Prayer:
Father God, I want to thank you how you stir up your people to do great things. Please line up my life with the dreams you have for me to accomplish. Fill me with your Holy Spirit today. Open up the doors and provide the resources I pray. May it be for your glory and in harmony with your Word. Help me to overcome the obstacles that are in the way. Please help me with my apathy too. I pray this in Jesus name, Amen.

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Weekly Devotion from Jesse

Sunday, July 18 This Week
Week of: Aug 29, 2010, Aug 22, 2010, Aug 15, 2010, Aug 8, 2010
Topics: GETTING CLOSER TO GOD, GROWING IN YOUR FAITH, FINDING GOD'S TRUTH, TRIALS

MOVING PAST YOUR HURDLES

Passage Of the Day:

“This is what the Lord Almighty says: Give careful thought to your ways.”

Haggai 1:7 (New King James Version)

Insight - Application & Encouragement

Insight:

The Israelites were returning from exile in Babylon. They started rebuilding the temple for God because it had been destroyed by the Babylonians. They began their work but then were stalled for 16 years. Instead of serving God, they became overfocused on themselves. They were stuck spiritually and needed to get beyond some of their hurdles.

Three Hurdles:

We all have obstacles that are preventing us from growing spiritually. We can get discouraged and also continue in patterns of rebellion, but God has better plans for us. God wants to give us a vision of what life can look like beyond our hurdles. He lovingly and firmly guides the Israelites past their obstacles and restores the people.
Here are three major hurdles that God helped them overcome:

1) Your Past: If we focus on our past failures, we can beat ourselves up unnecessarily in ways that God never wants. The results can be miserable. God wants us to receive His forgiveness through Jesus and move forward with His grace. If your past was outstanding, be careful of envying it. Ecclesiastes 7:10 says it’s okay to remember the past but the past can sabotage the future. We can miss our current blessings because we are fixated on the past.

2) Your Procrastination: Have you ever noticed how easy it is to procrastinate? I remember as a student not getting my assignments done at the right time or frequently waiting until the last second instead of doing it during a calmer time. ‘Hard work’ is ‘easy work’ not done at the right time. The Israelites knew what they were supposed to do in building the temple but they kept thinking ‘we’ll do it tomorrow’ until 16 years had passed.

3) Your Priorities: Our priorities won’t stay hidden. They will emerge in our prayers, how we spend our money/bank account, how we spend our time/schedule, and with our family or people close to us. The Israelites had a ‘me-first’ attitude. They wanted to take care of their own houses first, then they would think about God or other people in the community. They were apathetic spiritually because deep down they were selfish.

Application:

Read The Book Of Haggai- it’s one of the shortest books in the Bible and will only take you about 5-10 minutes. Write down examples of these three hurdles. Also, write down how they were able to overcome these common hurdles with God’s help.

Questions:

1) Why is procrastination so easy to do?
2) What helps you get stuff done at the right time?
3) What is an example of priorities that are not in order?
4) How can God use your past to bless you?
5) Is forgiveness hard for you to give or to accept?
6) When has God given you a positive vision of your potential?
7) What role does God’s grace play in your future plans?

Prayer:

Father God, Thanks you for giving me hope to recover from any situation. And for helping me to see the obstacles that are blocking me spiritually. I want to overcome them with Your help. I believe in Your wisdom and Your power. May Your Holy Spirit fill me now, make me whole, and stir me up in places that have been stalled. I pray this in Your name Jesus. Amen.

More about Jesse
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Weekly Devotion from Jesse

Sunday, July 11 This Week
Week of: Aug 29, 2010, Aug 22, 2010, Aug 15, 2010, Aug 8, 2010
Topics: GETTING CLOSER TO GOD, GROWING IN YOUR FAITH, FINDING GOD'S TRUTH, DISCOVERING GOD'S WILL

LOOKING FOR A CHURCH?

Passage Of the Day:

Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another-and all the more as you see the day approaching.

Hebrews 10:25 (New King James Version)

Insight - Application & Encouragement

Insight:

God knows that we won’t do very well in our Christian faith if we are not connected with other Christians. As much as we try to do it all alone, the fact is that we need each other. One tangible example of this is the decision we make each week to go to church. God doesn’t want us to miss the blessings that come from being a part of a church family.

Application:

What are some key things to look for in a church?

1) A church that is through the roof (Mark 2:1-12):
Notice how the four friends cared for the paralytic. The church is designed to be a place of healing and bringing people to Jesus. The friends are very loving and persevere in this passage. Our church recently was praying for a boy who had necrotizing fasciitis, and God miraculously healed him.

2) A church that is not in a cave (1 Kings 19:3-9):
Elijah was scared, discouraged, and hiding from the world. The bottome line was that he was wrapped up in himself way too much and staring too long at his problems. A church needs to be courageously reaching out, not intimidated by the world or selfish in their community.

3) A church that is in many jars (Joel 2:28-29 and 2 Corinthians 4:7):
God celebrates diversity, and we should too. Look at the Joel passage and the range of people who have received the Holy spirit to minister. Even though we have bodies that have physical challenges sometimes, God has placed His treasured Holy Spirit in us.

4) A church that is not in the dust (2 Kings 22:8-2 Kings 23:3):
Israel was in a spiritual funk and no longer growing because they got away from The Bible. Sadly, it was collecting dust in the temple. Fortunately, their king named Josiah insisted that the nation turn to God and return to the Scriptures. A church should be teaching accurately each week from the Bible and giving people good spiritual food to eat.

Questions:

1) Have you had good or bad experiences at church?
2) What do you look for when you visit a church?
3) Do you have a church home now and are you really connected?
4) Why do people skip church?
5) Why do you think God doesn’t want us to miss church?
6) How has going to church changed your life?
7) Is there anyone you can invite to church this week?

Prayer:

Father God, thank you for the churches in my city. I pray today that you would bless the pastors and leaders in all of the churches. I pray for the wisdom to know which church should be my church family. Please help me to get connected. I don’t want to skip church, but I want to grow in my faith. Help me to have the right attitude at church so I don’t miss a blessing from you. I pray this in Your Name Jesus, Amen.

More about Jesse
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Weekly Devotion from Jesse

Sunday, July 4 This Week
Week of: Aug 29, 2010, Aug 22, 2010, Aug 15, 2010, Aug 8, 2010
Topics: GETTING CLOSER TO GOD, GROWING IN YOUR FAITH, FINDING GOD'S TRUTH, DISCOVERING GOD'S WILL

TIMING AND LOCATIONS

Passage Of the Day:

The Lord upholds all those who fall and lifts up all who are bowed down. The eyes of all look to you, and you give them their food at the proper time. You open your hand and satisfy the desires of every living thing.

Psalm 127:14-16 (New King James Version)

Insight - Application & Encouragement

Insight:

The key phrase in psalm 145, verse 15 is: “At the proper time”. God knows the best timing for everything. Galatians 4:4 tells us that at just the right time God sent His Son Jesus to earth. And Jesus redeemed us by dying on the cross for our sins and overcoming the grave. Ecclesiastes 3:11 tells us that God has made everything beautiful in His time. God does not wait too long or rush things too early. He sees all of the factors involved and knows the precise details. God is doing all things for His glory and our good. He wants us to trust His timing.

Distance

God also demonstrates His wisdom in creation through the details of distance. The world as we know it was not formed by chance or coincidence. Psalm 8:3 states, “When I consider your heavens, the works of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place.”

Incredible Facts

The actual size of the sun is 1,390,404km and the moon is 3,476km (the size of earth is 12,756km). From earth the sun and moon appear to be the same size. The sun is 400 times bigger than the moon but the moon is 400 times closer. God knew right where to place the sun, the moon, and the earth.

Also, if the earth was less than 1% closer to the sun it would melt. If the earth was 1% farther from the sun, we would freeze. God had His hand on the placement of each of these incredibly large parts of our world. It is wonderful and points to His capable hand.

Application Questions:

1) Have you ever seen God’s perfect timing in your own life?
2) Do you tend to want God to rush faster or slow down more?
3) Why is it difficult to trust God with timing?
4) How does it encourage you when you think about the sun, moon, and earth?
5) Have you had the sense that God has placed you in certain situations?
6) Are you keeping the right distance from certain people and things?
7) Do you need to step closer to anyone or anything?

Prayer:

Father God,
Please forgive me for not fully trusting your timing and positioning in my life. I know that your plan is good and wise. I want to grow in my ability to discern your hand working in my life. I ask for additional restraint to wait on You and keep the right distance from certain things. And I ask for the courage to step into what You have for me right now. I pray all of this in Your Mighty Name Jesus, Amen.

More about Jesse
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Weekly Devotion from Jesse

Sunday, June 27 This Week
Week of: Aug 29, 2010, Aug 22, 2010, Aug 15, 2010, Aug 8, 2010
Topics: GETTING CLOSER TO GOD, GROWING IN YOUR FAITH, DISCOVERING GOD'S WILL

WATER BAPTISM

Passage Of the Day:

Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

Matthew 28:18-20 (New King James Version)

Insight - Application & Encouragement

Insight:
There are a few rituals that Jesus emphasizes in the Bible, one of them is water baptism. In this command to His followers, Jesus makes it clear that he wants all Christians to be baptized in water. You can’t earn your way to heaven through water baptism. We are only accepted into heaven because Jesus died for our sins and is risen, not because of anything we do. You become a Christian by putting your faith in The Lord Jesus, but there are several things you can do to grow in your faith. Water baptism is an important step for a new Christian- it honors Jesus and is a public identification with Jesus.

Why Not?:

1) Some people think water baptism is just a suggestion, but in fact it’s a command by Jesus.
2) Some people think that they don’t need to be baptized any time soon, but in the Scripture- there is an urgency to do it right away (Acts chapter 16).
3) Some people are shy. Jesus said to acknowledge Him before people and he will acknowledge you before the Father. That’s enough motivation to overcome and fear. Don’t be ashamed of Jesus.
4) Some people will be persecuted if baptized. This is unfortunate, but baptism and obedience are worth any cost.

Deeper:

Read Romans chapter 6 and discover how water baptism is a picture of the physical death and resurrection of Jesus. When someone comes up out of the waters of baptism, they are exhorted to walk in the newness of life with Jesus.

Read Matthew chapter 3 and discover that Jesus was baptized in water (the Jordan river). Look at the words of the father and the affirmation that comes from heaven. Water baptism is an incredibly joyful experience and the blessing of heaven comes to those who take this step.

Questions:

1) Have you put your trust in Jesus to be your Savior?
2) Have you been water baptized?
3) What are some of the reasons in the Bible to be baptized?
4) Is there someone you know who you can share this devotion with?
5) How can you encourage someone to be baptized?
6) How much joy has there been in the baptisms you have seen?

Prayer:

Father God, thank you for the ritual of water baptism. Thank you that Jesus was baptized to set the example. I hear your command for me to be baptized and I want to respond by saying yes. I also would like to encourage other Christians to be baptized too. Thanks you that there is so much joy in being baptized. I love you Jesus and this is all for you. I pray this in your Name Lord, Amen.

More about Jesse
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Weekly Devotion from Jesse

Sunday, June 20 This Week
Week of: Aug 29, 2010, Aug 22, 2010, Aug 15, 2010, Aug 8, 2010
Topics: GETTING CLOSER TO GOD, GROWING IN YOUR FAITH, COURAGEOUSLY FOLLOWING GOD, TRIALS

HEAVENLY PROTECTION

Passage Of the Day:

“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his might power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.”

Ephesians 6:10-13 (New King James Version)

Insight - Application & Encouragement

Insight:
In the book of Ephesians, Paul closes his letter with some insightful advice to the people in Ephesus. He points out that there is a battle happening, sometimes invisible, between God and the devil. As it is played out, Paul encourages the Christians with the good news about the power of God which can protect us and help us to stand firm in our faith.

A Reality Check:

God wants us to be aware of the dynamics of good and evil. These words are to help us to remain spiritually alert. God also wants us to know that the Holy Spirit inside of you is greater than any negative forces in the world.
There are two important principles to realize in understanding this passage:
1) There are opposing spiritual forces at work in our world.
2) God’s power can enable you to stand strong in any situation.

Application:

In Ephesians chapter six, there are eight different gifts from God listed that will help protect you. Use what God has given you in Jesus Christ!

1) Truth (6:14): Truth sets you free and overcomes gossip, rumors and accusations against you.
2) Righteousness (6:14): God has declared that you are righteous through Jesus’ death and resurrection when you put your trust in Him.
3) Gospel (6:15): Don’t be ashamed of the good news of Jesus.
4) Faith (6:16): Faith overcomes doubts, fears, and discouragement.
5) Salvation (6:17): No one can snatch you out of God’s hand.
6) Scripture (6:17): This is your offensive weapon- quote it like Jesus did.
7) Prayer (6:18-20): God’s strength and blessing comes to those on their knees.
8) Fellowship (6:21-23): God will often use one of His people to help you.

Questions:
1) How do you know when you are under attack spiritually?
2) How did Jesus handle temptation in Matthew chapter 4?
3) When have you overcome a spiritual battle?
4) Which of the 8 helps above would be most useful this week?
5) Is there one of the eight that you often overlook?

Prayer:
Father God, thank you that I am never alone- you are always with me. Thank you that I don’t need to live in fear or discouragement. Thank you that I am not helpless. And I thank you for the power and strength you give for each of my challenges. I look to you for protection and want to put on the armor that you give me.
And I pray this in your name Jesus, Amen.

More about Jesse
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Weekly Devotion from Jesse

Sunday, June 13 This Week
Week of: Aug 29, 2010, Aug 22, 2010, Aug 15, 2010, Aug 8, 2010
Topics: GETTING CLOSER TO GOD, GROWING IN YOUR FAITH

ON THE JOB TRAINING

Passage Of the Day:

“Slaves, obey your earthlt masters with respect and fear, and with sincerity of heart, just as you would obey Christ. Obey them not only to win their favor when their eye is on you, but like slaves of Christ, doing the will of God from your heart. Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not men, because you know that the Lord will reward everyone for whatever good he does, whether he is slave or free. And masters, treat your slaves in the same way. Do not threaten them, since you know that He who is both their Master and yours is in heaven, and there is no favoritism with Him.”

Ephesians 6:5-9 (New King James Version)

Insight - Application & Encouragement

Insight:

If you have a job, thank God for it. And the way you handle yourself on the job is an extension of your worship to God. The apostle Paul lays out a simple truth in this passage: when you work, do it all unto the Lord not merely unto another person. Your standard and motivation is to please God. One of the oldest tricks in the book is to only work hard when the boss is watching. God wants us to work with excellence because it brings Him glory and He will reward us generously and eternally for serving Him.

Application:

Here are five things to keep in mind as you work:

1) Unless it is sinful, do what you are hired to do with excellence. Read Proverbs 22:29 and Colossians 3:22-25. If you wanted to be paid more in the future, do more than what you are asked to do in thepresent.

2) When you see disrespect, poison, and rebellion on the job- don’t join it. Read Proverbs 20:26, 22:10, 27:18. Like flies caught and stuck on a fly paper trap, keep a distance from these sticky traps. Every job has it’s challenges.

3) You worship God through your special assignment from Him. Christians don’t just have jobs, they are placed by God in workplaces to accomplish His kingdom work.

4) If you are a workaholic, it’s time to get honest about the reasons. Some people try to hide in their work, avoid painful relationships at home, try to derive their sense of worth, or just think God will only love them if they are always working.

5) God’s rewards are good. There is a reason why God often mentions rewards in the Scripture. It’s because He wants you to know he is generous and notices what you do that is good. We will be active in heaven too.

Leading:

Here are five questions if you are leading other people:

1) Who is your boss? (Ephesians 6:9)

2) Will you make the right choice even when it’s unpopular?
(Ecclesiastes 7:21)

3) Are you leading by example? (1 Corinthians 11:1)

4) Can you balance the big picture with the details? (Proverbs 19:20-21)

5) Are you dependable and kind? (Proverbs 20:28, Psalm 15:4)

Prayer:
Father God, Help me to view my work with your eyes. To see the purpose of doing the job with excellence, building character, loving my co-workers, and speaking into the lives of the people around me your good gospel. I pray that You would lead me to the right jobs, provide for me, and grant me the strength to carry out Your work. I want to bring You glory and use the money I make to honor You. Change my attitude today and may I find contentment in Your timing. In Jesus name I pray, Amen.

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Weekly Devotion from Jesse

Sunday, June 6 This Week
Week of: Aug 29, 2010, Aug 22, 2010, Aug 15, 2010, Aug 8, 2010
Topics: GETTING CLOSER TO GOD, GROWING IN YOUR FAITH

WE ARE FAMILY

Passage Of the Day:

“Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. Honor your father and mother- which is the first commandment with a promise- that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on earth.”

Ephesians 6:1-3 (New King James Version)

Insight - Application & Encouragement

Insight:
Most people would say that they want the blessing of God on their life. But how does it happen? One of the ten commandments that promises God’s favor is the instruction to honor our parents. In fact, if we say we want to honor God, then we must honor our parents too. Wisdom in life includes knowing who to honor. Who you choose to honor will determine the course for your life.

Honoring Parents:
Here are four principles to remember regarding honor:
1) Honoring parents involves honest conversations: you can let your parents know what you are thinking and what is important to you. Be sure to use a respectful tone as you communicate humbly.
2) Honoring parents means giving them the benefit of the doubt: even if something they say or request isn’t your favorite, still follow through with their request.
3) Honoring parents is not always popular: you might have many friends that are rude, bossy, or flippant to their parents, but that doesn’t make it the right thing to do.
4) Honoring parents doesn’t mean ignoring the Bible: if your parents tell you to do something contrary to God’s Word, then you can refrain and discuss it with them.

Next Steps:
1) Forgive your parents: The Bible is very clear that we need to forgive everyone fully because Jesus forgives us fully. Don’t skip over this step, it is most important in your relationship with God and your parents.
2) Gratitude is solid ground with your parents: Starting with your birth, your parents have made sacrifices for you and given you many gifts of support and love. Take time to tell them the things you appreciate that they have done.
3) Do something special: Take action and application by finding one specific thing you can do for them this week.

A Prayer:
Gracious God, You chose my earthly parents for a reason. Help me to forgive them, love them, and honor them. Please heal any part of our relationship that isn’t healthy. Help me to communicate well with them and talk about them humbly when they aren’t present. I do this for Your glory Jesus, and I pray this in Your name Lord. Amen.

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Weekly Devotion from Jesse

Sunday, May 30 This Week
Week of: Aug 29, 2010, Aug 22, 2010, Aug 15, 2010, Aug 8, 2010
Topics: GETTING CLOSER TO GOD, GROWING IN YOUR FAITH, SHARING YOUR FAITH, DISCOVERING GOD'S WILL

Understanding the Bible

Passage Of the Day:

Then Philip ran up to the chariot and heard the man reading Isaiah the prophet. “Do you understand what you are reading?” Philip asked. “How can I,” he said, “unless someone explains it to me?” So he invited Philip to come up and sit with him.

Acts 8:30-31 (New King James Version)

Insight - Application & Encouragement

Insight: The Ethiopian man wanted to learn more about God, so he began reading the Bible. But there was one problem: He did not understand what he was reading. Have you ever opened up the Bible and started reading and it didn’t make any sense to you at all? Don’t feel bad, even the apostle Peter says that some of Paul’s writing can be difficult to understand (2 Peter 3:15-16). Just because it can be difficult though does not mean it is not worth the effort. Some of the best things in life come with perseverance.

Practical Tools that can make it easier to understand God’s Word:
1) Pray. Ask the Holy Spirit to help give you insight into the Scripture. We can’t do it alone; we need insight from the Holy Spirit! 1 Corinthians 2:6-16, John 14:24-26, 1 John 2:27 are some of the verses that explain the importance of asking the Holy Spirit for help.
2) Find a friend who can help you as you read. Philip was able to come alongside the Ethiopian man and teach him about the book of Isaiah. Look for a friend who is solid in their faith and can read with you and discuss the passage together.
3) Find a healthy church that teaches the word of God.
4) Check out some resources like a study Bible or commentaries that explain passages in greater depth. You can find these at a Christian bookstore and some of these resources are online too. There are some great devotional books, and helps for reading through the Bible in a year.

Application Questions: Think about and answer these questions as you read the Bible. What does the passage teach me about God?

Are there any examples to follow? Anything to avoid?

What is encouraging in the passage? Any promises?

What is the basic message of the passage?

Any verses to memorize?

What difference does this make in my life? How should I apply it?

What does it teach me about myself and relationships?

What parts of the passage are not clear?

Are there any other verses that are similar to this passage?

Who can I share this passage with during the week?

A Challenge: Our faith grows as we spend time in God’s Word. What time are you making for God’s Word in your weekly schedule? We can’t live on bread alone; the Word is our spiritual food. Get some good meals. Dive in to the Scripture and meet God there. Take His truth and apply it to your life.

Deeper: 2 Timothy 3:16-17, Psalm 1, Romans 10:16-17, Psalm 119, 1 Peter 1:23-25.

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Weekly Devotion from Jesse

Wednesday, May 26 This Week
Week of: Aug 29, 2010, Aug 22, 2010, Aug 15, 2010, Aug 8, 2010
Topics: GETTING CLOSER TO GOD, GROWING IN YOUR FAITH, FINDING GOD'S TRUTH, HANDLING CONFLICT, TRIALS

STINKING THINKING

Passage Of the Day:

So I tell you this, and insist on it in the Lord, that you must no longer live as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their thinking. They are darkened in their understanding and separated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them due to the hardening of their hearts.

Ephesians 4:17-18 (New King James Version)

Insight - Application & Encouragement

Insight
The first place darkness tries to go is in between your ears. It enters into your thoughts. From there, it travels down into the heart and tries to harden your heart towards God. How do you stop the darkness? Run to the light of Jesus Christ. Look what Jesus promised in the gospel of John chapter 8 and verse 12!

Traps
Here are four traps (they are futile which means good for nothing) that are common today and will try to steer your mind and heart away from God- we are exposing them so they will be easier to avoid:
1) Denial: Many people today are saying that God is not the creator of our world. They want to give the glory to chance or a big bang. Genesis chapters 1-2 tell us very clearly that there is a loving creator who made us. Science supports the intelligent design of an intelligent creator- don’t try to push God out of the way, it won’t work. When we stop thanking God for blessings, we are denying Him.
2) Worry: It is tempting to affirm that God created the world, but then start to think that maybe He is not in control of it. This unhealthy conclusion will only lead to worry. Read what Jesus said about worrying in Matthew chapter 6, verses 25-34. God hasn’t lost control, so don’t go borrowing trouble by worrying. When you are tempted to worry, decide to put your trust in God (John chapter 14).
3) Pride: There is something inside all of us that wants to grab the steering wheel from God. We can start to think we know even better than God what is truly good for us (check out Genesis chapter 3). Do you see how much pride is underneath that decision to run my own life instead of doing things God’s way. God honors those who are humble enough to rely on Him (1 Peter 5:5-7).
4) Cruelity: Sometimes we can beat ourselves up and think it’s the really spiritual thing to do. The Bible says it is actually the enemy, satan, that is an accuser of the saints (Revelation 12:10). Don’t be harder on yourself that God is- and don’t ignore His incredibly massive love for you. Also, don’t slander other people or gossip about them- it is very cruel. Forgive the people who have hurt you and don’t try to take revenge or hold a grudge. God is very clear forgiveness must be 100% and revenge must be 0%, because that is how Jesus has treated you.

Questions:

1. Which of these traps is the most seductive for you?

2. How do you get out of these traps?

3. Is there anyone you need to apologize to?

4. How do you take control of your thought life?

5. How can you dwell on Scripture during the day?

6. Why is your thought life so important?

Prayer:
Father God, I don’t want to sit in the traps of futile thinking. I pray that I could dwell on your love and your truth. Please help me to use my mind for great purposes. I ask you to grant me creativity, vision, insights, positive perspectives, and humility. Shape my thinking and help me to have self-control with my thoughts. I pray this for Your glory and in Your name Jesus. Amen.

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Weekly Devotion from Jesse

Friday, May 14 This Week
Week of: Aug 29, 2010, Aug 22, 2010, Aug 15, 2010, Aug 8, 2010
Topics: GETTING CLOSER TO GOD, GROWING IN YOUR FAITH, FINDING GOD'S TRUTH

LIGHT OVERTAKING DARKNESS

Passage Of the Day:

For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light.

Ephesians 5:8 (New King James Version)

Insight - Application & Encouragement

Insight:

Throughout the Bible, there is a contrast between light and dark. Light represents God, His truth, revelation, understanding, purity, and insight. Darkness represents rebellion, confusion, stumbling, lies, despair, and hopelessness. We choose to walk in the light or in the dark every day. When you put your trust in Jesus, you become a child of God and are given help to come out of darkness. Run into the light today and experience God’s good purposes for you.

Footholds:

In the book of Ephesians, chapter 4 and verse 27, it says that we can give the devil a foothold. Have you ever put your foot in a doorframe so that it would not close? The devil wants to have room in your life, but you can make decisions that will close the door. Here are five areas to eliminate his space in your life from Ephesians chapters 4 and 5:
1) Anger: Don’t let the sun go down on your anger, meaning don’t hold onto it and don’t act out of rage.
2) Words: Don’t speak half truths or cursing, or slander other people
3) Drinking: Don’t get drunk
4) Laziness: Don’t neglect your faith, your family, or your health.
5) Sex: Don’t have sex unless you are married.

This list can look restrictive, but remember God only says ‘No’ when it’s to protect you and to provide for you something better. Don’t experience the unnecessary pain and disillusionment of darkness. Don’t compromise God’s best for you. Darkness will try to deceive you. God is merciful and will forgive and help you no matter what you are going through.

Application:

Here are some practical ways to run to the light found in Ephesians chapters 4 and 5 (read these two chapters this week):

1) God is light, so let the Holy Spirit call the shots.
2) Forgive everyone fully.
3) Find a compelling vision to serve people in love.
4) Create distance from seductive traps.
5) Don’t let your thanks and praise to God dry up.

Questions:

How do you know when you are starting to walk in darkness?
How do you respond when someone tries to warn you about darkness?
What is a new area of your life that you are walking in the light?
Why does God call us to the light?
Which of the above practical steps will you take action this week?

Prayer:
Gracious God, I know that you are light and you can help me to walk in the light. I want to start doing that in some specific areas of my life. Come with your power Holy Spirit and call the shots in my life. Thank you for rescuing me and setting me in a new direction. I pray this in your name Jesus. Amen.

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Weekly Devotion from Jesse

Sunday, May 9 This Week
Week of: Aug 29, 2010, Aug 22, 2010, Aug 15, 2010, Aug 8, 2010
Topics: GETTING CLOSER TO GOD, SHARING YOUR FAITH

How Can You Better Understand

Passage Of the Day:

Acts 8:30-31 (New King James Version)

Insight - Application & Encouragement

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Weekly Devotion from Jesse

Sunday, May 2 This Week
Week of: Aug 29, 2010, Aug 22, 2010, Aug 15, 2010, Aug 8, 2010
Topics: GETTING CLOSER TO GOD, GROWING IN YOUR FAITH, PRAYER, DISCOVERING GOD'S WILL

THE CEILING IS TOO LOW

Passage Of the Day:

Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.

Ephesians 3:20-21 (New King James Version)

Insight - Application & Encouragement

Insight:

The apostle Paul is writing a letter to encourage the Christians in the city of Ephesus. It is a solid community of faith, but Paul wants to help them remove some of the ceilings that are limiting what god can do in their lives. Paul points out that if someone will open up their heart and mind to Jesus and His love, God will do remarkable things in the life of a person who is really living for God’s glory. In fact, it will be better than what people can come up with on their own power or by living for themselves.

An example:

We have spiritual ceilings in our lives just like we have physical ceilings. My parents’ house has a bonus room where the ceiling is only four feet tall. The room is used for storage, but it’s not fun to try to carry objects into or out of that room. It is a task that can keep chiropractors busy. When you exit that room, it feels so good to stretch out and fully stand up again. Spiritually, we are often scrunched down or in pain when god can enable us to stand up. We need to get rid of some of the ceilings we put on our own faith.

Application:

1) God can make you a servant in any situation: Trade in your attitudes for attitudes that are from God. He will give you humility. Read Ephesians 3:1-7.

2) God can empower you to handle your responsibilities well: He will help you distinguish what is your responsibility so you can do it well and what isn’t your responsibility, so you won’t waste your time and energy and worries. Read Ephesians 3: 8-11.

3) God can reassure you to approach Him with freedom and confidence: It almost sounds too god to be true but we can relax in God’s love and talk with Him openly. Read Ephesians 3:12-15, Romans 5:2, Hebrews 4:16.

4) God can strengthen your inner being: Physical exercise has some value, but God is the one who can heal and give power to you on the inside. Like a solar panel catches the source of power coming from the sun, we can catch God’s power throughout the day. Read Ephesians 3:17-19 and 2 Corinthians 4:16-18.

5) God can establish your life to be rooted in love: Instead of being rooted in rejection, fears, hostility, or negativity- God can bump those things out of the way with His great love. Read Ephesians 3: 17-19.

Prayer:
God I don’t want to quench or grieve the Holy Spirit. Forgive me for living as if You aren’t that powerful. I want to open my life up to you in a fresh way today. Raise the ceilings in my life Lord. I’m excited about the new things that you will do as I look to you. I believe you are able to do great things to bring you glory. This is my heart’s desire. I pray this in Your name Lord Jesus. Amen.

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Weekly Devotion from Jesse

Monday, April 19 This Week
Week of: Aug 29, 2010, Aug 22, 2010, Aug 15, 2010, Aug 8, 2010
Topics: GETTING CLOSER TO GOD, GROWING IN YOUR FAITH, WHO IS JESUS?, SUPERNATURAL WISDOM

A THREE-LEGGED FAITH

Passage Of the Day:

All of us also lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our sinful nature and following its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature objects of wrath. But because of His great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in our transgressions- it is grace you have been saved. For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which god prepared in advance for us to do.

Ephesians 2:3-10 (New King James Version)

Insight - Application & Encouragement

Insight:

In this passage, the apostle Paul is explaining how much god has done for us through Jesus Christ. Because of God’s great love, He rescues us from hell, gives us eternal life, and gives us a dynamic purpose on earth. All three of these aspects are very important in our spiritual lives and all three work beautifully together. Only God could orchestrate such an incredible accomplishment.

Three Legs:

Leg #1= “Out Of” (Read Ephesians 2: verses 1-3, 11-12)
God is willing to reach down into our lowest places. God is at work convincing us that there is truly a better way to live. He pulls us off the road to hell and breaks the destructive habits in our lives. We don’t have to live like the world tells us to- there is another option with God.

Leg #2 = “Into” (Read Ephesians 2: verses 4-9, 13-18)
You don’t know how good the grace of God is until you receive it. Not just intellectually, but deep down in your soul. Jesus is your peace that is missing in your situation. Jesus brings us the mercy and love that we are longing for everyday. It can’t be earned, this is God’s gift available to you.

Leg #3 = “For” (Read Ephesians 2: verses 10,19-22)
We can’t earn our way to heaven, it’s all about what Jesus has done for us. But after we receive His gift of the payment for our sins, we can live for Him and use our gifts to serve Him and other people. You won’t be fulfilled spiritually until you are serving Him with all of your heart. We are not designed to just for ourselves- it is empty- but we are made for the greater purpose of bringing Him glory. God has already set up good works for you to participate and see incredible results.

Questions:

Which of the three legs needs to be strengthened in your life?
How can you receive god’s mercy without beating yourself up?
What happens when you ignore one of these legs?
How has God gifted you to serve Him?
What are some opportunities God has placed in your life to use your gifts?
How big of a rescue is it to not go to heaven and not hell?

Prayer:

Father God, Thank you for Ephesians chapter two and how it reminds me of how much that you do in our lives and for eternity. I am so grateful for Your mercy and steady love in my life. I want to receive everything you have for me, and I also want to serve You with everything I have. Please help me to be humble to receive and humble to serve. Guide me this week into opportunities to bring You glory. I pray this in Your name Jesus, Amen.

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Weekly Devotion from Jesse

Sunday, April 11 This Week
Week of: Aug 29, 2010, Aug 22, 2010, Aug 15, 2010, Aug 8, 2010
Topics: GETTING CLOSER TO GOD, GROWING IN YOUR FAITH, FINDING GOD'S TRUTH, DISCOVERING GOD'S WILL

ALL OF THIS IS YOURS

Passage Of the Day:

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ. For He chose us in Him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love He predestined us to be adopted as His sons through Jesus christ in accordance with His pleasure and will. (1:3-5)

Ephesians 1:1-14 (New King James Version)

Insight - Application & Encouragement

Insight:

The apostle Paul is writing to the church in Ephesus and is explaining to them how much God has already given them. One of the most important spiritual steps as a Christian is realizing how much God loves you and how much Jesus has done for you. Receiving comes first, then we respond to God with worship and serving Him. It is a bold statement when Paul says god has given us every spiritual blessing and that we are blameless in God's sight through the sacrifice of Jesus. Take some time to read this section of Scripture and let it sink in deeply today.

Gifts:

When someone decides to follow Jesus and put their trust in Him, these are some of the blessings that are given to that person:
1) Eternal Acceptance: Peace with God forever. A life that wil never end. Chosen and selected by God to dwell with Him forever in full pleasuer and joy. (1:1-5)
2) Current Guidance: God gives you wisdom when you ask Him in every situation. He will provide everything you need to spiritually thrive in any circumstance. (1:3,8)
3) Undeserved Benevolence: There is nothing you could do to earn these gifts. You can't boast that you have done it. He redeems you for His glory and your good. (1:6-7)
4) Constant Presence: He will never leave you alone. The Holy Spirit is in you. Your best friend is right there all of the time. He literally resides in you. (1:9-13)
5) Guaranteed Inheritance: No one can take away God's gift, not even the devil can steal it. When God promises it, He comes through. (1:14)

Questions:

1) What people have given you the most love and support in your life?
2) As you read Ephesians chapter one, what stands out to you?
3) Can your mind comprehend living forever with God?
4) Which of God's blessings means the most to you?
5) These gifts were not free, how did Jesus buy them?
6) Ultimately, these gifts are not just for us, why else does God give them?
7) Do you appreciate God even more than the gifts He gives?

Prayer:

Father God, I know I don't deserve all of the gifts you choose to give me. Most of all I am thankful that you chose me to live with You forever. Help me to realize what You have given me so that it will affect how I live everyday. I know I can never repay You, but I want to live in a way that brings You as much glory as possible. Jesus, thank you for paying the full price for my sins and rescuing me eternally. Please help me to spread the good news about You to everyone. I pray this in Your Name Jesus, Amen.

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Weekly Devotion from Jesse

Sunday, April 4 This Week
Week of: Aug 29, 2010, Aug 22, 2010, Aug 15, 2010, Aug 8, 2010
Topics: GETTING CLOSER TO GOD, GROWING IN YOUR FAITH, FINDING GOD'S TRUTH, THE GOSPEL

BECAUSE HE LIVES

Passage Of the Day:

"For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that He was buried, that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, and that He appeared to Peter, and then to the twelve."

1 Corinthians 15:3-4 (New King James Version)

Insight - Application & Encouragement

Insight:
As Paul writes this letter, he makes it very clear that this section is of first importance. There are a lot of things that we call important in the Christian faith, but this is the most important. We often hear the word 'gospel' which means 'good news'. And the gospel is the heart and crux of christianity. The good news has two sides: 1) Jesus died for your sins. 2) Jesus is alive.
It is all about what Christ has done for us as an undeserved gift both on the cross and as He left the grave.

Application:
Paul goes on to include that if Jesus is not risen (1 Corinthians 15:13-19):
1) Christianity is a lie 2) Your faith is worthless 3) Your loved ones can only perish 4) Christians are pathetic

Evidence:
Our minds must consider the facts, and fortunately the facts support the resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:5-8):
1) Eyewitness reports: There were over 500 people who actually saw the risen Lord!
2) The disciples u-turn: The disciples were discouraged and afraid until they saw Jesus alive again.
3) The level of conviction: Ten of the eleven original disciples were killed, no one would die for a lie if they knew it wasn't true.
4) The guarded tomb: Roman soldiers were guarding Jesus' tomb and would be killed if they let anyone take His body.
5) The historical details: Women were the first to discover Jesus, this was from God not the culture at that time.
6) The rapid growth of the church: In Jerusalem, the place where Jesus was seen alive again, the church exploded in size.
7) The empty tomb: There is only one religious leader who overcame death, and He is not in the grave.

Blessings:
As you finish reading the chapter, 1 Corinthians 15, there are two blessings from God that stand out:
1) For later: Eternal life with God in our new bodies (15:40-44, 54-55).
2) For now: Our labor for God is not in vain (15:57-58).

Follow Me:
When Jesus said to "Follow Me", it means to fully follow Him! As youthink about Easter and the resurrection, maybe it is time that you made the decision to fully put your trust in Jesus as your Savior! If you already have a relationship with Jesus, it is the time to walk closely with Him: If you are off the path, come back. If you are running ahead of God, slow down. If you are lagging behind, pick up the pace. If you are following half heartedly, give Him all of your heart. Make a choice today to fully follow the risen Lord Jesus!

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Weekly Devotion from Jesse

Wednesday, March 17 This Week
Week of: Aug 29, 2010, Aug 22, 2010, Aug 15, 2010, Aug 8, 2010
Topics: GETTING CLOSER TO GOD, GROWING IN YOUR FAITH, FINDING GOD'S TRUTH, SUPERNATURAL WISDOM, DISCOVERING GOD'S WILL

STILL IN CONTROL

Passage Of the Day:

But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.

Matthew 5:44-45 (New King James Version)

Insight - Application & Encouragement

Insight:
In this passage, Jesus is teaching His disciples in a message called the sermon on the mount. Jesus is explaining that God’s ways aren’t like our ways. When we have enemies, we are to love them and forgive them. The disciples get a glimpse into God’s purposes. This must have been one of the more difficult concepts for the disciples to comprehend and embrace.

Three Confusing Times:
1) God causes it: In Amos chapter four, God is making it clear that He is the reason why there is no food, no harvest, no rain and no water for His people. In addition to that He sends them many plagues. These are not an accident, but He is doing this so that His people would return to Him.
2) God blesses it: In the passage above from Matthew chapter 5, God makes it clear that He is going to bless even His enemies by sending them sunshine and also providing rain for their needs and harvest. God has decided to be gracious to people even if they reject Him.
3) God allows it: In Genesis chapter 4, Cain kills Abel and God allows it. Yes, there are consequences for Cain and punishment. Just because God allows something doesn’t mean he likes it or approves it.

Application:
In the Bible and in our lives, things don’t always happen as we expect them to happen. And sometimes God’s approach to different situations surprises us. It makes us re-adjust our view of God to who He really is. His reasons and purposes are perfect, but they don’t always make sense or seem right to us in the moment. When these times occur, it is good to know that we can talk honestly with God in prayer, and we can continue to trust Him because he is faithful and good.

Taking It Home:
This week read the book of Habakkuk. He is a prophet who lived about 600 years before Christ. Habakkuk is a very short book in the Bible (3 chapters), and it is a conversation between Habakkuk and God. Habakkuk doesn’t understand what is happening to his country, to the people he loves, and to his own life. At the core of the book is the reassurance that God hasn’t lost control. If you are going through a time that doesn’t make any sense to you and you have more questions than answers, Habakkuk’s story is encouraging. Habakkuk teaches us how to walk by faith and that God is still in control.

Prayer:
Father God, I thank You that I can be honest with You. What I see in terms of pain and injustice doesn’t make sense to me. It’s not easy for me to process my experiences and observations. I want to look to You and to Your throne to make sense of what is happening. I know You are good and loving and You haven’t lost control. I want to trust you as I continue to look to You for answers and guidance. I pray this all in Your name Jesus. Amen.

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Weekly Devotion from Jesse

Sunday, March 14 This Week
Week of: Aug 29, 2010, Aug 22, 2010, Aug 15, 2010, Aug 8, 2010
Topics: GETTING CLOSER TO GOD, GROWING IN YOUR FAITH, PRAYER, HANDLING CONFLICT

OVERCOMING LIMITATIONS

Passage Of the Day:

There was an estate nearby that belonged to Publius, the chief official of the island. He welcomed us to his home and for three days entertained us hospitably. His father was sick in bed, suffering from fever and dysentery. Paul went in to see him and, after prayer, placed his hands on him and healed him. When this had happened, the rest of the sick on the island came and were cured. They honored us in many ways and when we were ready to sail, they furnished us with the supplies we needed.

Acts 28:7-10 (New King James Version)

Insight - Application & Encouragement

Insight:
At the end of the book of Acts, Paul and the gospel are traveling all of the way from Jerusalem to Rome. The journey wasn’t easy, and at every turn there seem to be new limitations. After surviving a shipwreck and going without food for 14 days, they land on the island called Malta. Then after being bitten by a poisonous snake, they find healing and provision through God’s power and a generous man named Publius. There is no panic in Paul when he faces obstacles, he has learned how to stay close to God and walk through the new challenges.

Application:
Sometimes God will remove our limitations! He can do this through:
1) His Favor: Read Genesis 6:8, Proverbs 8:35, Proverbs 18:35, Psalm 90:17, and 1 Corinthians 6:2.
2) His Power: Read Acts 28:3-6 and Mark 6:30-44.
3) His People: Paul is used by God to bring healing to the island of Malta and God uses the people on the island to provide housing, food, and supplies for Paul.
God uses the bonds of unselfish relationships to take away limitations.

Within Limitations:
God also chooses to keep some limitations intact, and He works within them!
1) Even in an ugly situation, there can still be encouragement (Acts 28:11-16)
2) If you are surrounded by confusion, you can still take initiative (Acts 28:17-22)
3) Popularity shouldn’t determine your truthfulness or boldness (Acts 28:23-28)
4) If you are in a new situation, there will be new opportunities (Acts 28:28-31)

Our Example:
Read Philippians chapter 2 and write down what examples we have of times when Jesus broke through limitations. Then make another list of examples of when and how Jesus served Father God while choosing to work within limitations. He chose to submit to death on a cross to pay for our sins, then he broke through the limitations of death and the grave to prove His matchless love and power. What limitations has God removed in your life? What are the current limitations that He hasn’t taken away yet because He wants you to follow Him within them?

Prayer:
Father God, thank you for Jesus and that He came to earth to show us how to live and to rescue us. Thanks you for your supernatural power unleashed in me and in your church, we praise you for so much evidence of Your loving hand and heart. For the limitations I am experiencing now that are here to teach me, I pray I would learn how to walk with you humbly in these times. And to live with perseverance, hope, encouragement, and close relationships. I want to take it one day at a time with You Lord Jesus. I pray this in Your Great Name. Amen.

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Weekly Devotion from Jesse

Monday, February 22 This Week
Week of: Aug 29, 2010, Aug 22, 2010, Aug 15, 2010, Aug 8, 2010
Topics: GETTING CLOSER TO GOD, GROWING IN YOUR FAITH, FINDING GOD'S TRUTH, DISCOVERING GOD'S WILL, LEADERSHIP ROLES, TRIALS

IS THIS SACRIFICE WORTH IT?

Passage Of the Day:

When we heard this, we and the people there pleaded with Paul not to go up to Jerusalem. Then Paul answered, “Why are you weeping and breaking my heart? I am not only ready to be bound, but also to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.” When he would not be dissuaded, we gave up and said, “The Lord’s will be done

Acts 21:12-14 (New King James Version)

Insight - Application & Encouragement

Insight:
The prophet Agabus had just made it clear that if Paul went to Jerusalem, he would have many hardships. Paul’s close friends didn’t want him to have to suffer there, so they tried to convince him not to go. But Paul knew that God was leading him to Jerusalem, and he was ready to suffer for Jesus in that city. Stubbornness can be a good quality when someone is determined to be faithful to God. Paul knows deep down that the sacrifice is worth it, and he lives out that conviction.

Application:
How do you know if it is a good sacrifice to make?
Consider these questions as you decide what to do:
1) Does it help change someone’s life? (Acts 21:18-19)
2) Does it clear up a damaging misunderstanding? (Acts 21:26-38)
3) Does it point people to Jesus? (Acts 22:4-8)
4) Is it necessary? (Acts 22:25)

A Quote:
The missionary David Livingstone looked back over his life and had this perspective on his service to God:
“People talk of the sacrifice I have made in spending so much of my life in Africa. Can that be called a sacrifice which is simply acknowledging a great debt we owe to our God, which we can never repay? Is that a sacrifice which brings its own reward in healthful activity, the consciousness of doing good, peace of mind, and a bright hope of a glorious destiny? It is emphatically no sacrifice. Rather it is a privilege. Anxiety, sickness, suffering, danger, foregoing the common conveniences of this life- these may make us pause, and cause the spirit to waver, and the soul to sink; but let this be only for a moment.”

Questions:
1) What have been some good sacrifices you have made for Jesus?
2) Are some sacrifices not even needed?
3) How do you know when you make a sacrifice that God didn’t want?
4) What is God asking you to sacrifice now?
5) What motivates you to say yes to God?
6) Are there some sacrifices we won’t see any rewards until heaven?

Prayer:
Father God, please help me to discern which sacrifices are good and which ones are from You. I pray for the courage to carry out what You have called me to do. Help me to remember that this life is not all there is and to rally live for what is important eternally. I love you very much Jesus. Thank you for loving me. I pray this in Your name Lord Jesus. Amen.

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Weekly Devotion from Jesse

Monday, January 25 This Week
Week of: Aug 29, 2010, Aug 22, 2010, Aug 15, 2010, Aug 8, 2010
Topics: GETTING CLOSER TO GOD, GROWING IN YOUR FAITH, FINDING GOD'S TRUTH, SHARING YOUR FAITH

BECOMING RELEVANT

Passage Of the Day:

While Paul was waiting for them in Athens, he was greatly distressed to see that the city was full of idols. So he reasoned in the synagogue with the Jews and the God-fearing Greeks, as well as in the marketplace day by day with those who happened to be there.

Acts 17:16-17 (New King James Version)

Insight - Application & Encouragement

Insight:
Paul was in the city of Athens, known for discussions of new ideas, debates, and higher learning. As Paul entered the city, he was paying close attention to people and their souls. He was profoundly saddened by the worship of false gods in Athens. He chose to do something about it. He began to talk with the people in Athens about Jesus in a way that they could understand.

Irrelevant:
Being relevant means that you are able to take what you believe and interact with the world. Unfortunately, Christians can fall into traps which make them ineffective in representing Jesus:

1) Indifference: The decision to just do your own thing and not care about other people or their eternal destiny.

2) Intimidation: Being so scared of people who don’t believe the same thing as you and ignoring the evidence that supports the Christian faith.

3) Isolation: Retreating into your shell and losing contact with people.

Finding Common Ground:
Here are a few things to keep in mind which can help break out of the three traps listed above. Paul did all of these in Athens (read Acts chapter 17):

1) Give a compliment: Be sincere and find something positive to point out.

2) Communicate shared values: Find things that both of you agree on
together.

3) Don’t shy away from bringing truth: Talk in a way that the other person can understand you, and don’t water down the message.

4) Let go of taking differences too personally: If someone disagrees with you or rejects God, don’t let it slow you down in your faith. It happened to the apostle Paul and to Jesus frequently.

When You Are Outnumbered (read acts chapter 18):

1) Earn respect: respect might not be given to you right away, so let your actions help you in this regard.

2) Don’t shrink back from your responsibility: you might be in the minority at times but that doesn’t mean your purpose is gone.

3) Build on islands of strength: focus on what is going well and work in the areas that God is blessing.

4) Listen for God’s affirmation: His might be the only positive voice you hear.

Prayer:
Father God, I know you will put me into situations that are not easy for me, so that I will rely on You. I don’t want to be a scared, intimidated Christian. Please help me to interact well with the people around me each day. I pray that my words would really be from You. Help me to speak the truth in love. I pray this in Your Name Jesus. Amen.

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Weekly Devotion from Jesse

Monday, January 18 This Week
Week of: Aug 29, 2010, Aug 22, 2010, Aug 15, 2010, Aug 8, 2010
Topics: GETTING CLOSER TO GOD, GROWING IN YOUR FAITH, TRIALS

TRAGEDY IN HAITI

Passage Of the Day:

Precious in the sight of The Lord is the death of His saints.

Psalm 116:15 (New King James Version)

Insight - Application & Encouragement

Insight:

When tragedy hits, there are some things we can know, and other things that will remain a mystery. We know that Jesus wept at Lazarus’ funeral (John 11:35) and that was for one person. Imagine the sadness God feels when thousands of people die. God is not indifferent towards our pain- He cares for us even in death. In fact, in love He knows when to bring us home.
At the same time, we don’t always know why tragedies happen. We know this is a fallen world, but all of the answers are not given to us. When we don’t know “why” something is happening, we can still ask God, “What do you want me to do now?” Habakkuk was a prophet in the Bible who wrestled with these questions- you can read that short book and see the deep things that Habakkuk learned.

Application:
In any tragedy, there are some things we can do that can make a difference:

1) Pray: One of the greatest gifts we can give to someone is to really pray for them. Not just say we’ll pray, but drop on our knees and intercede.

2) Give: There are a number of Christian organizations that do a great job of ministering on the scene (Compassion International, World Vision, Samaritan’s Purse, or one of your favorites), and we can financially support them in their efforts.

3) Serve: Many churches and ministries will travel to the place of need and help with the sick, rebuild houses, love and encourage people, bring food and supplies, etc. Keep you eyes open as God may open a door for you to go and help in a practical way.

4) Speak: When you are able to interact with people who are enduring a tragedy: listen to them, mourn with them, you can let them know you are sorry about what happened and you are praying for them. God will give you words of comfort. Speak humbly and as a servant not as a know it all.

Prayer:
Father God, today we pray for the people in Haiti. We grieve with them and for them. We pray that they would turn to You in their pain and despair. We pray that You would lift them up from this tragedy. Please bring healing, supplies, and hope. We pray that you would raise up many people who would lend a hand and reach out to this country in practical ways. Jesus we pray that Your light would shine there, and Your love and presence would be the comfort of the people in Haiti. We pray this in Your Name Jesus, Amen.

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Weekly Devotion from Jesse

Monday, December 21 This Week
Week of: Aug 29, 2010, Aug 22, 2010, Aug 15, 2010, Aug 8, 2010
Topics: GETTING CLOSER TO GOD, GROWING IN YOUR FAITH, SHARING YOUR FAITH, DISCOVERING GOD'S WILL, GENEROSITY

100 Soccer Balls

Passage Of the Day:

“What should we do then?” the crowd asked. John answered, “The man with two tunics should share with him who has none, and the one who has food should do the same.”

Luke 3:10-11 (New King James Version)

Insight - Application & Encouragement

Insight:
We don’t always come up with practical answers to spiritual questions, but John gives a very straightforward answer to the crowd. As people are wondering about repentance, he explains that it’s not just an emotional response or a prayer- repentance can include action. The emphasis in these verses is to help those who have less than you. The examples in these verses include both clothes and food.

A Story:
When I played soccer in Zimbabwe, I noticed that the children didn’t have soccer balls. They tried to make balls out of rags and string. In the US, many kids have two or three soccer balls. Our church in California is collecting soccer balls now to send to Zimbabwe. Our goal is to send a container with 100 balls on 2-10-2010. We are excited to give to people who will cherish these small gifts and hopefully it makes a difference in their lives. We have a full time nurse who we support that will distribute the balls there.

Application:
Is there something you can give to someone who doesn’t have as much as you? Clothes? Food? Soccer Balls?
Maybe you can organize and start something in your family, at your school, in your church, or in your community? Get other people involved. Dream big for God. Pray about possible ideas. Figure out a plan to see what can be done. Take a risk. Newspapers and Businesses can help too. Have fun with it. Be a blessing to someone who doesn’t have very much. And do it all in Jesus’ Name.

Questions:
Has there been a time when you experienced poverty personally?
When have you seen other people suffering in poverty?
Have you ever received an unexpected gift?
What are some needs that get your attention?
Is there a country you would like to help?
Why not take time right now to pray, brainstorm, and dream?

Deeper:
Matthew 10:42, 2 Corinthians 9:6-8, Acts 20:35, Romans 12:9-16

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Weekly Devotion from Jesse

Wednesday, December 9 This Week
Week of: Aug 29, 2010, Aug 22, 2010, Aug 15, 2010, Aug 8, 2010
Topics: GETTING CLOSER TO GOD, GROWING IN YOUR FAITH, FINDING GOD'S TRUTH, DISCOVERING GOD'S WILL, HANDLING CONFLICT, TRIALS

NO GRUDGES

Passage Of the Day:

When Saul came to Jerusalem, he tried to join the disciples, but they were all afraid of him, not believing that he really was a disciple. But Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles. He told them how Saul on his journey had seen the Lord and that the Lord had spoken to him, and how in Damascus he had preached fearlessly in the name of Jesus.

Acts 9:26-27 (New King James Version)

Insight - Application & Encouragement

Insight:
When Saul became a Christian (he became the apostle Paul), his old friends wanted to kill him. Becoming a Christian is not always a popular decision. He barely escaped their attack- he had to hide in a basket and then leave town. When he then arrived in Jerusalem, he was excited to join the church. But the people in the church ignored him because they knew about his past. It was Barnabas who stepped in and welcomed Saul into the church and helped him get connected when no one else cared.

Grudges:
At the beginning of Acts chapter 8 we learn that Saul was a violent man who wanted to see Christians killed. After his conversion, many Christians knew about his previous ways. Saul had to deal with grudges that Christians held against him that prevented his acceptance into the church. And Saul had to deal with grudges from his previous friends who were furious that he became a Christian.

Application:
Have you ever held on to a grudge against someone? Here are two examples of what it is like to carry around a grudge:
1) It is like being stung by the same bee over and over again. When you hold on to a grudge, the sting keeps coming back.
2) It is like trying to carry around a cannonball with you where ever you go. A heavy weight that hinders the other things you want to do and brings you down with it.

Questions:
1) Is there someone you need to forgive?
2) What was it like when you have tried to carry a grudge?
3) Have you seen people come to church that aren’t welcomed?
4) Have you seen God really turn someone’s life around?
5) Have you ever been scared to welcome someone at church?

Prayer:
Gracious God, I don’t want to carry grudges. Today I am making a decision to let go of any grudges in my heart and to trust You with the results. Thank you for helping me take the high road and do what is truly right. I want to forgive in the same way that you forgave me. And help me to reach out to people who are victims of rejection too. I pray in Your Name Jesus. Amen.

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Weekly Devotion from Jesse

Monday, November 30 This Week
Week of: Aug 29, 2010, Aug 22, 2010, Aug 15, 2010, Aug 8, 2010
Topics: GETTING CLOSER TO GOD, GROWING IN YOUR FAITH, FINDING GOD'S TRUTH, PRAYER, DISCOVERING GOD'S WILL, GENEROSITY

THANKSGIVING STOPPERS

Passage Of the Day:

I will give thanks to The Lord because of his righteousness and will sing praise to the name of the Lord Most High.

Psalm 7:17 (New King James Version)

Insight - Application & Encouragement

Insight:
Being thankful and giving God thanks are choices. God is worthy, but sometimes we stop thanking God. Giving thanks is a decision of the will. In this verse, the psalmist David, is making the choice to thank God. In psalms 28, 30, and 35, the same phrase appears “I will” give thanks to The Lord. “I will” is written because psalmist decides to thank God regardless of the circumstances.

Application:
There are seven things that try to stop our thanksgiving to God:
1) PRIDE says: “Who do I need to thank?”
2) ENTITLEMENT says: “Of course I should have these gifts.”
3) DESPAIR says: “There’s nothing to be thankful for.”
4) STUBBORNNESS says: “Try to get me to thank God.”
5) ENVY says: “I don’t have as much as them.”
6) NEGATIVITY says: “I just want to wallow in things I don’t like.”
7) LAZINESS says: “Do I have to thank God?”

Questions:
1) Which of the seven things listed above is stealing your thanks?
2) When do you like to stop and thank God during your week?
3) Why is thanksgiving so good for your soul?
4) What are the blessings in your life you are most thankful for?
5) Who can you tell today that you are so thankful they are in your life?

Reminder:
Being thankful doesn’t mean that we always have to have a big smile on our face. In the psalms, there is often weeping and thnking God together. It is okay to have tears of pain and grieve with God- and then to also thank Him at the same time. He heals, comforts and receives your praise.
In Luke chapter 10, verse 20, Jesus is reminding His disciples about something very important. The disciples are excited because God is using them to do some incredible things in ministry. Jesus gives them perspective by telling them not to forget that the greater miracle is their salvation and being accepted into heaven by God. Because of what Jesus has done for us, our names are written in the book of life when we put our trust in Him. And that blessing is better than anything we can do in ministry for God. Give Him thanks with a grateful heart.

Prayer:
Father God, I want to really thank you for Jesus. I am so grateful that He paid the full price for my sins. And I thank You God for loving me. You are so merciful with me. I count my blessings today Lord, and I thank you for helping me, providing for me, and protecting me in so many ways. You are worthy, and I don’t want any thanksgiving stoppers to get in between You and me today. I love you Lord. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.

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Weekly Devotion from Jesse

Tuesday, November 17 This Week
Week of: Aug 29, 2010, Aug 22, 2010, Aug 15, 2010, Aug 8, 2010
Topics: GETTING CLOSER TO GOD, GROWING IN YOUR FAITH, COURAGEOUSLY FOLLOWING GOD, SUPERNATURAL WISDOM

FIRM GRIPS AND LOOSE GRIPS

Passage Of the Day:

When they heard this, they were furious and gnashed their teeth at him. But Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, looked up to heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. “Look,” he said, “I see heaven open and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God.”

Acts 7:54-56 (New King James Version)

Insight - Application & Encouragement

Insight:
Stephen is the first martyr in the early church, and these are his final seconds of life. God comforts Stephen in his physical pain. We read in the Bible that Jesus is seated at the right hand of God. But in this passage, Jesus is standing at the right hand of God. Stephen is getting a standing ovation from Jesus- can you imagine that? Jesus is personally welcoming Stephen into the glory of heaven.

Grips:
We can learn from Stephen because he has discernment and knows when to hold on tight to something and when to hold on loosely.
Stephen has a firm grip with: 1) Personal integrity: In Acts chapter 6, verses 8-15, Stephen is falsely accused. Even when he is misunderstood, Stephen continues to be consistent with his actions and words. 2) What God Has Done: In this most difficult trial, Stephen doesn’t forget the great things God has accomplished. Read Acts chapter 7, verses 1-50.
Stephen has a loose grip with: 1) His Level Of Boldness: God wants Stephen to step up and speak with strength in Acts 7:51-53. It would be easy for Stephen to feel intimidated or insecure, but instead he remains open to God and being bold. 2) His Own Life: It’s not that Stephen wants to die, but he has decided that he is willing to die if that is what it takes to be faithful to God. Read Acts 7:54-60 and notice Stephen’s two prayers. They are very similar to what Jesus said on the cross. Stephen is being like Jesus as he dies.

A Story:
In the year 320 AD, there was a Roman Emperor named Licinius who killed thousands of Christians. In the twelfth legion of Rome’s imperial army, there was a group of 40 Christians. This group of 40 men refused to bow down to pagan gods, they would not renounce their faith: “You can have our armor and even our bodies, but our hearts allegiance belongs to Jesus Christ.” The commander took away their warm clothes and left them on a frozen lake to die. One of the 40 gave in to the pressure and walked off the lake renouncing his faith. He later died that day anyways. But one of the guards who watched these men continue to praise God as they died, took off his warm clothes and joined them on the lake saying “40 brave soldiers for Jesus”. He came to know The Lord after watching the faithfulness of these men who held onto integrity even if they lost their lives.

Prayer:
Father God, It is not easy to remain faithful in our culture today, but I want to make a decision to have integrity in my faith. I don’t want to compromise or be intimidated. I want to grab tightly today to Your Word and cling to You. Make me bold when I need to be and willing to make the sacrifices it takes to do Your work. Thank you for the testimony of the many martyrs who have given up everything for You. May I walk this day in a manner that brings glory to Your Name. In Jesus Name I pray. Amen.

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Weekly Devotion from Jesse

Monday, November 9 This Week
Week of: Aug 29, 2010, Aug 22, 2010, Aug 15, 2010, Aug 8, 2010
Topics: GETTING CLOSER TO GOD, GROWING IN YOUR FAITH, FINDING GOD'S TRUTH, COURAGEOUSLY FOLLOWING GOD, DISCOVERING GOD'S WILL, LEADERSHIP ROLES, TRIALS

MID-COURSE ADJUSTMENTS

Passage Of the Day:

In those days when the number of disciples was increasing, the Grecian Jews among them complained against the Hebraic Jews because their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food. So the Twelve gathered all the disciples together and said, “It would not be right for us to neglect the ministry of the word of God in order to wait on tables. Brothers, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them.”

Acts 6:1-3 (New King James Version)

Insight - Application & Encouragement

Insight:
Sometimes new blessings can bring new challenges. For example, a door ding in an old car might not be a big deal, but if you get a new car, the same door ding can be a real headache. The church in Acts chapter 6 was learning how to enjoy the new things God was doing (many people were coming to know Jesus), but at the same time sort through the new challenges (how to feed all of the widows in the church).
The old system was not working- there was discrimination and people were being overlooked. There were two types of Jews in the church (Grecian=Greek language and culture, Hebraic=Palastinian and speaking Hebrew and Arameac) and the widows who were Grecian Jews were not getting enough food. They needed a creative solution to this problem.
Application:
When you face new challenges, these points to help you keep the right perspective:
1) New challenges can build your spiritual growth and stamina.
2) New challenges will help you identify what is truly important to you.
3) New challenges can increase your prayer life and hunger for God.
4) New challenges can lead to improvements and better solutions.
A Stroy:
My car started making a new noise last week that I knew was not good. I just listened to the noise for a few days, hoping it would just go away. When I realized it was sticking around, I was not excited about tackling this issue. My two excuses were 1) I’m too busy- it would be easier to just roll down the window or turn up the radio to block out the noise. 2) I’m scared- how much would it cost? I ended up taking it into the shop, and the bill was less than $100. The mechanic explained I could either pay him a hundred now, or thousands in the near future. It was another reminder that if we don’t make mid-course adjustments, we might pay a great cost down the road with money, faith, relationships, peace, etc.
Questions:
1) What kind of adjustments have you made that have really helped?
2) Have you ever needed to make an adjustment but ignored it?
3) Do you find yourself scared of adjustments? Why?
4) How do you make the time to reflect and check in with God in your busy schedule?
5) Any good adjustments you could make this week?
6) Any new challenges you are facing? What is your attitude like?
Prayer:
Father God, nothing surprises You. You know every challenge I face, including the new ones. I can’t sort through it all on my own. I need your wisdom. What are the adjustments in my life that I need to make? I pray that you would help me to not avoid them just because I get scared. Help me to come up with creative solutions to improve my situation. I want to walk closely with You, and grow through this. I pray this in Your Name Jesus, Amen.

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Weekly Devotion from Jesse

Monday, November 2 This Week
Week of: Aug 29, 2010, Aug 22, 2010, Aug 15, 2010, Aug 8, 2010
Topics: GETTING CLOSER TO GOD, GROWING IN YOUR FAITH, SHARING YOUR FAITH, DISCOVERING GOD'S WILL, LEADERSHIP ROLES

INCREASING COMPASSION

Passage Of the Day:

Jesus went through all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the good news of the kingdom and healing every disease and sickness. When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.”

Matthew 9:35-38 (New King James Version)

Insight - Application & Encouragement

Insight:
When you study the Bible really try to dig into what God is saying. I have listed questions for each verse to help you grab the deeper meanings of the Word:
1) In verse 35: What was Jesus doing in each town? Why? Does anyone do this in your town?
2) In verse 36: What do sheep do that don’t have a shepherd? Why does this stir the compassion of Jesus?
3) In verse 37: What does it mean that the harvest is plentiful but the workers are few? Where do you see this today?
4) In verse 38: What is the prayer Jesus wants us to pray? How do we become an answer to that prayer?
Application:
Sometimes our compassion doesn’t increase until we take action. If we wait around for compassion to come, we might be sitting on our couches all week. Try turning off the TV or computer and taking a step of courage in your walk with God.
1) Read Luke 19:41-42: What do the tears of Jesus tell you about the heart of God?
2) What are five questions that you could ask someone that would lead a conversation into a spiritual topic?
3) Try asking people all five of these questions this week. And see what God will do!
4) Is there a neighbor, a student, a co-worker, and a family member that you could pray for right now?
5) Choose one person that doesn’t know Jesus and invite them to a meal together.
Quotes:
Corrie Ten Boom: “When I reach that beautiful city, and the saints all around me appear. I only hope someone will say: it was you who invited me here.”
C.T. Studd: “Some wish to live within the sound of a chapel bell. I want to run a rescue shop within a yard of hell.”
John Bunyan: “When you pray, rather let your heart be without words than your words without heart.”

Prayer:
Father God, please don’t let me just live for myself. Open my heart to the people you want me to reach. I pray against lazy hands and an unwilling voice. Let me be radical for you. Let the world know how much you love them and use me to that end. I pray in Jesus name. Amen.

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Weekly Devotion from Jesse

Monday, October 19 This Week
Week of: Aug 29, 2010, Aug 22, 2010, Aug 15, 2010, Aug 8, 2010
Topics: GETTING CLOSER TO GOD, GROWING IN YOUR FAITH, PRAYER, HANDLING CONFLICT

When You Hit A Brick Wall

Passage Of the Day:

The priests and the captain of the temple guard and the Sadducees came up to Peter and John while they were speaking to the people. They were greatly disturbed because the apostles were teaching the people and proclaiming in Jesus the resurrection of the dead. They seized Peter and John, and because it was evening, they put them in jail until the next day. But many who heard the message believed, and the number of men grew to about five thousand.

Acts 4:1-4 (New King James Version)

Insight - Application & Encouragement

Have you ever been going through life, feeling pretty good, and suddenly you hit a wall that stops you in your tracks? Maybe you have been faithful to honor God in a situation (school, work, family), but nobody seems to be on your side. We enter Acts 4 with the early beginnings of the Christian church… and it sure seems like ministry is flying high. Peter and John (two disciples of Christ) were spreading the Gospel all over and many were being saved (Acts 4:4). But, they were quickly apprehended by the religious leaders; put in jail and then told to be silent. Did the two men give up and leave their faith? Absolutely not.
The choice of Peter and John to continue through the brick wall and face persecution was definitely not the popular decision. But, the wall they faced with the religious leaders was a heart check for the christians to assess if they desired to align with God’s work. The believers choose prayer and surrender as a result of the wall (v.24-30).
But, not all walls we face are to be plowed through! In fact, some walls are there so that we will check our motives for sin. The wall may feel very painful. But, the only hope is that God is good and He wants us to turn to Him for healing.
And, sometimes one may never completely understand why the brick wall is there. The encouragement comes as we see the believers’ choice in Acts 4 to pray and seek God in the midst of hardship.

Quotes:
Martin Luther King Jr. was someone who ran into a brick wall but continued to go forward because god had called him to help advance civil rights in our country. Here are some encouraging things that he said:
1) Faith is taking the first step even when you don’t see the whole staircase.
2) Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.
3) The church was not merely a thermometer that recorded the ideas and principles of popular opinion. It was a thermostat that transformed the mores of society.

Questions:

1. What walls are you facing right now?

2. Facing walls in our life can be a checkpoint in which we evaluate our actions. Is there sin that you need to address, so as to stop at the wall and not proceed? What about seeking or giving forgiveness to someone? Or, do you need to continue to be faithful to God and walk through the wall?

3. When Peter and John faced the opposition of the leaders, what was their response (Acts 4:19-20)?

4. Despite the persecution, what do we see the believers, lead by Peter and John, doing in Acts 4:23-37? What does this reaction mean for you in your situation?

Prayer:
Father God, I need your help as I hit this brick wall in my life. I ask for the discernment to know if I should back away from this wall or walk through it. If you want me to keep going, then I also pray for the courage and endurance for this situation too. I trust you Lord, and I want to do your will. I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.

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Weekly Devotion from Jesse

Monday, October 5 This Week
Week of: Aug 29, 2010, Aug 22, 2010, Aug 15, 2010, Aug 8, 2010
Topics: GETTING CLOSER TO GOD, GROWING IN YOUR FAITH, PRAYER

GROWING UP

Passage Of the Day:

For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice. But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. Peacemakers who sow in peace raise a harvest of righteousness.

James 3:16-18 (New King James Version)

Insight - Application & Encouragement

Insight:
James, the brother of Jesus, wrote these words with the encouragement to submit to God. A refusal to really follow God’s lead results in immaturity. Spiritual growth can be stunted and stuck because of our stubbornness. God works against those who are proud, but He will bring His power and help to those who are humble (James 4:6-8). Take the next step spiritually and ask God to grow you as you submit to Him in the deepest ways.
Immaturity:
Immaturity can be frustrating when someone else displays it in their life, but it can be a blind spot in our own lives. Here are a few examples of clearly not growing up spiritually:
1) A ‘Me-First’ Attitude: It’s okay in airplanes to put on your own oxygen mask first, but that is only so you can help other people better. Being self-absorbed is like having a leak in the tire of our relationships. Eventually, they become flat.
2) Insecurity And Jealousy: Yes, these two tend to travel together. If you don’t like yourself, it is easy to compare all of the time. How well do you celebrate the success of other people? If you don’t have peace with God in an area of your life, you will keep one eye on everyone else and envy is the result.
3) Destructive Fighting: Conflict is normal and there is a healthy way to work through issues. When people choose to hold grudges, exaggerate, yell, lose their temper, pick fights, become petty, slander, or threat- these are all choices that dishonor God and make conflicts worse. 1 John 4:19-21 makes it clear that you can’t say that you love God when you do these things- if so, you have a false righteousness. You need to love and forgive everyone, especially when things get heated.
4) Ignoring Your Own Faults: Have the humility to purify your own heart first. It is the wrong approach to always be pointing out other people’s faults. Take the initiative to really turn from your own mistakes and apologize to people before you get too critical.
A Quote:
Jonathon Edwards said, “The best protection one can have from the devil’s schemes is a humble heart.” God is in the process of making us more like Jesus, we just want to make sure that we don’t get in the way. Humility is the path to spiritual growth and closeness to God. Jesus models this for us when He prays, “Yet not as I will, but as You will.” (Matthew 26:39).
Deeper:
James 3:13-4:17, Romans 8:28-39, Colossians 1:24-29, Ephesians 4:11-16

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Weekly Devotion from Jesse

Monday, September 28 This Week
Week of: Aug 29, 2010, Aug 22, 2010, Aug 15, 2010, Aug 8, 2010
Topics: GETTING CLOSER TO GOD, GROWING IN YOUR FAITH, FINDING GOD'S TRUTH, HANDLING CONFLICT, TRIALS

LIVING AFTER A LOSS

Passage Of the Day:

So when they met together, they asked him, “Lord, are you going to restore the kingdom to Israel?” he said to them: “It is not for you to know the times or dates the Father has set by His own authority. But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” After he said this, he was taken up before their very eyes, and a cloud hid him from their sight.

Acts 1:6-9 (New King James Version)

Insight - Application & Encouragement

Insight:
Can you imagine what was happening inside of their hearts as the disciples had to say goodbye to Jesus? Doesn’t it sound strange to think that at the start of the church, Jesus is leaving physically? It was a time of unanswered questions- the disciples didn’t know when Jesus would return. It was a time of pain- they would dearly miss their Savior. And it was a time of waiting- they stayed in Jerusalem in anticipation of the Holy Spirit. Overall, it was a time of loss and a difficult experience.
A Story:
Nick Vujicic was born without any arms or legs. There was no medical reason for these missing limbs. Nick’s response to loss is admirable: he began a ministry called Life Without Limbs. Nick has spoken to millions of people in over 19 nations, telling everyone how precious they are to God. Nick shares, “Faced with countless challenges and obstacles, God has given me strength to surmount what others call impossible…My greatest joy in this life is to introduce Jesus to people I meet and tell them of His great love.”
Application:
The disciples were able to discover life after their loss- here are some of the important steps that helped them:
1) Take comfort from what is still good: Beethoven thought he would not be able to create music if he lost his hearing, but it turned out that melodies flooded into his mind and he wrote some of his best music after he became deaf.
2) Solidify your foundation: The disciples found a disciple named Matthias to take the place of Judas, they took care of the missing gap. Do you need to strengthen a relationship, a role, or an aspect of your faith?
3) Prayer times with God help you to both grieve and move forward: The disciples turned to God in their uncertainty and pain. Don’t try to be a super-Christian, let God know what you are going through and then rely on Him as you move forward. He will supply you with comfort and hope, but it might be after you shed a few tears with Him.
4) Your life still has a compelling purpose: the disciples remembered what Jesus said about taking the gospel to the ends of the earth. Billy Sunday said that more people fail for a lack of purpose than a lack of talent. Remember what Jesus has asked us to do, there is a reason we are not in heaven yet.

Prayer:
Father God, I thank you for hearing me as I share with you. I am hurting and grieving through a time of loss right now. Sometimes I don’t feel like going forward, I feel angry and depressed. Could you please come into this part of my life. I really need you. I believe you can raise up hope and purpose into my life again. I ask this for your glory, In Jesus Name, Amen.
Deeper:
Matthew 28:18-20, Haggai 2:3-9, 2 Corinthians 1:3-11, Psalm 3:1-8

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Weekly Devotion from Jesse

Wednesday, September 9 This Week
Week of: Aug 29, 2010, Aug 22, 2010, Aug 15, 2010, Aug 8, 2010
Topics: GETTING CLOSER TO GOD, GROWING IN YOUR FAITH, FINDING GOD'S TRUTH, PRAYER, DISCOVERING GOD'S WILL

WHEN YOU HAVE TO WAIT

Passage Of the Day:

Be patient, then, brothers, until the Lord’s coming. See how the farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop and how patient he is for the autumn and spring rains. You too, be patient and stand firm, because the Lord’s coming is near.

James 5:7-18 (New King James Version)

Insight - Application & Encouragement

Waiting:
Waiting is not easy. It is a challenge for me just to wait the full 3 minutes for a microwave burrito. I want to pull it out with 9 seconds left on the timer. Have you ever met anyone that really enjoyed waiting? That would be kind of weird. Even though we might not like waiting, there are some things we can do that really help during a season of waiting.
The First Decision:
You will often be waiting in life: for a birthday, for Christmas, for a driver’s license, for a car, for a friend, for graduation, for a paycheck, for someone to know Jesus, for the return of Jesus. James tells us the most important thing is to stand firm in our faith while we wait. Saul couldn’t wait, and it cost him his position as king (1 Samuel 13:7-10). For a list of people who waited well in the Bible, look at Hebrews chapter 11 and 1 Corinthians 15:58.
Waiting You Can Avoid:
1) Unhealthy Waiting: Moses keeps giving excuses to God and finally asks God to just find someone else to speak for Him (check out Exodus 4: 1-14). We can try to resist God and miss what God wants because we are stubborn.
2) Unnecessary Waiting: Moses is praying and talking to God, but God tells Moses to stop crying out to Him and just cross the Red Sea (check out Exodus 14:15). Moses is willing to do it this time, but he is just moving too slowly. There are times when God has given a green light, and we don’t need to wait any longer.
Some Helpful Suggestions:
1) Don’t take it out on other people: Don’t make someone else your punching bag because waiting is frustrating. Parents can take it out on kids, kids on the youngest sibling, the youngest sibling kicks the dog, dog chases the cat, cat goes after the bird, bird gets the bugs, bugs get the little termite, and the termite eats the house. Avoid this kind of thing.
2) Prayer is your option that can’t be taken away: You might have limited options, but prayer is still there. You can pray more, be more fervent in prayer, or just ask people to pray for you. Read psalm 130:5-7 and take some time talking with God now.
3) Make some personal changes: Sometimes God slows us down because we are heading in the wrong direction. We need to stop and have a change of heart, or maybe turn from a sin before we continue.
4) Assist a wanderer: Waiting doesn’t have to be just inward frustration. It could be a key time to help someone else who is struggling. Instead of focusing on what I don’t have, it might be healthier to shift towards someone who needs my time and energy. Have eyes that can see the need. Read Jude 1:22-23.

Prayer:
Take a few minutes to meditate on James 5:7-20.
Father God, I want to decide today to stand firm in my faith and to trust You and Your timing. Please help me not to wait when you give me a green light. And when you want me to slow down, I pray for the self-control to be able to wait for something better and not compromise. I pray today for extra perseverance; and an attitude adjustment, so that I won’t be self-consumed, but I can actually help other people. I pray this in your powerful name Jesus, Amen.

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Weekly Devotion from Jesse

Monday, August 24 This Week
Week of: Aug 29, 2010, Aug 22, 2010, Aug 15, 2010, Aug 8, 2010
Topics: GETTING CLOSER TO GOD, FINDING GOD'S TRUTH, SUPERNATURAL WISDOM, LEADERSHIP ROLES, TRIALS

WHAT ONE TONGUE CAN DO

Passage Of the Day:

Passage: James 3:9-10
With the tongue we praise our Lord and father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in God’s likeness. Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers, this should not be.

James 3:9-10 (New King James Version)

Insight - Application & Encouragement

Insight:
The real freedom of speech is not the right to say anything you want. Freedom of speech is deeper than that: It is the power to not say certain things, and the ability to choose a greater purpose in the things you say. James is highlighting the fact that glorious words can come out of our mouth and then a few hours later, some wretched statements can come out of that same mouth. No person can tame their own tongue, but with God’s help our words can be used by God to bring Him glory and build up other people.
What Many People Forget:
1) There is accountability for your words: Check out what Jesus said in Matthew 12:33-36, Jesus doesn’t want us to be careless with our words.
2) God has given your words incredible power to influence lives: Solomon tells us in Proverbs 18:21 that the power of life and death are in the tongue.
3) You will need to rely on God everyday for the right words: this is what David is praying in Pslam 19:14.
A Few Things To Avoid:
1) Over involved comments: The Bible literally tells us to mind our own business (1 Thessalonians 4:11)- stay out of areas that are not your responsibility.
2) Servant hands and a wrecking ball mouth: Some people who make the most poisonous comments at church are the ones who actually serve. A servant has a humble mouth and hands.
3) False flattery: don’t kiss up to people or be so scared of people that you can’t be honest (Proverbs 26:28, 28:23).
4) Sneaky private conversations: Some people give themselves special permission to gossip and slander when they are alone with a friend. The truth is we are not alone- god hears everything.
Some Helpful Suggestions:
1) Before you speak, think about the questions: Is it true? Is this the best way to say it? Does this statement honor God? (Isaiah 50:4)
2) Study Ephesians 4:29- what are the major points of that verse? How can you build up other people with your words? Who needs your help today?
3) Use your speech as a primary way to spread God’s glory. In John chapter 4, there was a woman who made lots of mistakes in her relationships, but Jesus changed her life and she told her town about The Lord. Who can you share the gospel with this week?
Prayer:
Father God, I want to thank you for giving me the ability to make a difference in this world with the words I speak. Forgive me for tearing other people down, being judgmental and missing opportunities to tell people about you. I choose today to devote my words to your purpose. And I ask your help in beginning to speak in a new way. I want my words to bring life and lead many to you. I pray this in your name Jesus, amen.

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Weekly Devotion from Jesse

Monday, August 3 This Week
Week of: Aug 29, 2010, Aug 22, 2010, Aug 15, 2010, Aug 8, 2010
Topics: GETTING CLOSER TO GOD, GROWING IN YOUR FAITH, FINDING GOD'S TRUTH, COURAGEOUSLY FOLLOWING GOD, SUPERNATURAL WISDOM, PRAYER, DISCOVERING GOD'S WILL, HANDLING CONFLICT, TRIALS

WORKING THROUGH THE TENSION

Passage Of the Day:

“Your eyes are too pure to look on evil; you cannot tolerate wrong.
Why then do you tolerate the treacherous?
Why are you silent while the wicked swallow up those more righteous than themselves?”

Habakkuk 1:13 (New King James Version)

Insight - Application & Encouragement

Insight:
Habakkuk is a prophet in the Old Testament who asks God some difficult questions. From Habakkuk’s perspective God appears to be silent- ignoring the injustice and cruelty of the Babylonians. The prophet can’t wait any longer, and he asks God why this is happening and how long will it last. God’s answers are not easy to accept- He is actually raising up the Babylonians to discipline the Israelites. God’s reassurance to Habakkuk is that the Babylonians are still accountable to Him and will be punished for any wrongdoings.

In The Tension:
Habakkuk does not avoid the tension of the issues in his life and faith. Let’s take a closer look at how he proceeds through these challenges with God:
1) Starts with a question: It is honest, and it goes directly to God (1:2-4)
2) Adds another question: God’s reply does not make sense to Habakkuk, in fact he is even more confused now. He needs further clarification. Sometimes when we seek God, His answers don’t make sense to us at first. (1:12-17)
3) Takes time to process what God has said: Look at some of God’s statements in this book- they are worthy of extended reflection (1:5, 2:2, 2:4, 2:14, 2:20).
4) Remains dissatisfied in the right way: Habakkuk begins to pray for God to work amongst the people because the prophet now sees the seriousness of their rebellion. Habakkuk does not want the status quo or the coming wrath. He prays for mercy and for changes (3:2).
5) Learns contentment in God: Habakkuk makes a decision to praise God and rely on God’s strength through the difficulties. He remembers that blessings are a gift, not a right. And he remembers who is still worthy of his praise. He can only arrive at this place spiritually because he has walked through this process with God (3:16-19).

Questions:
Have you ever wanted to ask God why something is happening or how long it will last?
Does God give any answers in the Bible that are difficult to accept?
What are some of the ways you can follow Habakkuk’s example in your own life?
Are there any questions that are not good to ask God? Why?
What stops you from being honest with God?
Have you ever really wrestled in prayer?
What areas of your life right now are you working through some tension? How is it going?
How have you grown through struggles in your faith?

Deeper:
Habakkuk 1:1-3:19 Read the book of Habakkuk and write down verses that stand out to you.
Genesis 32:22-32; Job 40:1-5; Acts 1:1-11; Deuteronomy 29:29, Psalm 25:14.

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Weekly Devotion from Jesse

Monday, July 27 This Week
Week of: Aug 29, 2010, Aug 22, 2010, Aug 15, 2010, Aug 8, 2010
Topics: GETTING CLOSER TO GOD, GROWING IN YOUR FAITH, FINDING GOD'S TRUTH, COURAGEOUSLY FOLLOWING GOD, SUPERNATURAL WISDOM, DISCOVERING GOD'S WILL, HANDLING CONFLICT, TRIALS

STRUGGLING WITH DOUBTS?

Passage Of the Day:

When John heard in prison what Christ was doing, he sent his disciples to ask him, “Are you the one who was to come, or should we expect someone else?”
Jesus replied, “Go back and report to John what you hear and see: The blind receive sight, the lame walk, those who have leprosy are cured, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the good news is preached to the poor. Blessed is the man who does not fall away on account of me.”

Matthew 11:2-6 (New King James Version)

Insight - Application & Encouragement

Insight:
John the Baptist spent his entire life serving God and pointing people to Jesus. And now at the end of his life when he is in prison and suffering, he begins to have some doubts about his Savior. Jesus reassures John by reminding him what He has done and reviewing the evidence that Jesus is the Messiah. Jesus is also listing the fulfillments of prophecy from the book of Isaiah which contains descriptions of what the coming Messiah would do. John the Baptist is a spiritual giant, but he is faltering in his faith when Jesus gently guides him back to the truth.

Application:
How do you handle your doubts? Doubt can be extremely dangerous- it is one of the devil's tools to pull us away from God like he did with Adam and Eve. When we start to have doubts, it is important not to buy into the lies or act on them. On the other hand, as we grow intellectually, we are going to come to our faith with new questions. This type of searching for truth can actually build up our faith.
Here are some good responses to doubt:
1) Go to Jesus: When John has doubts, he asks Jesus about them. Jesus is incredibly merciful with John; He even compliments John for his faith (verse 11). We can ask God our most honest questions.
2) Go to the Word: Make sure the teaching you hear does deviate from the Bible. Jesus reminds John of the truth of the Scriptures in His response. The Bereans were constantly checking teaching with the Bible.
3) Go to people with faith: Watch out for savage wolves and false teachers (Acts 20:29). Thomas had doubts, but he stayed in the community of faith. There are many great authors today who write about the intellectual evidence for our faith. There are solid answers to the difficult topics and objections people have.

Questions:
What do you think are the most common spiritual doubts people have today?
How would you respond to people who have these doubts?
What have been the biggest doubts you have faced in your own faith?
Have you ever told God or anyone else about them?
What is the difference between being tempted with a doubt and acting on it?
Has doubt ever motivated you to seek more evidence for your faith?
What are the different ways God responds to doubt in the Bible?

Deeper:
John 20:24-29, Matthew 14:22-33, Genesis 3:1-7, Jude 1:22, Acts 17:11,
James 1:5-8, Mark 9:20-29, Luke 1:26-38.

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Weekly Devotion from Jesse

Monday, July 20 This Week
Week of: Aug 29, 2010, Aug 22, 2010, Aug 15, 2010, Aug 8, 2010
Topics: GETTING CLOSER TO GOD, GROWING IN YOUR FAITH, FINDING GOD'S TRUTH, COURAGEOUSLY FOLLOWING GOD, PRAYER, DISCOVERING GOD'S WILL, HANDLING CONFLICT, TRIALS

CAN’T FIND GOD?

Passage Of the Day:

“But if I go to the east, He is not there;
If I go to the west, I do not find Him.
When he is at work in the north, I do not seek Him;
When He turns to the south, I catch no glimpse of Him.
But He knows the way I take; when He has tested me, I will come forth as gold.”

job 28:8-10 (New King James Version)

Insight - Application & Encouragement

Insight:
How can God be omnipresent (present everywhere) and at the same time be so difficult to find? Have you ever had times when you wanted to see God at work and be close to Him, but it just doesn’t happen? That was Job’s experience. In these verses, Job says that he is actively seeking out God, but the results are discouraging. In the end though, Job is going to give God the benefit of the doubt. And in the end, Job’s desires for God are fulfilled. But clearly, the timing is God’s. And the emptiness of the search is a reality and part of the journey. Maturity doesn’t usually happen without trials like this one.

A Story:
Gerald Sittser lost his mom, wife and daughter in a car accident. He writes, “Loss may call the existence of God into question. Pain seems to conceal him from us, making it hard for us to believe that there could be a God in the midst of our suffering. In our pain we are tempted to reject God…we wrestle in our souls to believe.” Can you imagine that? Three generations of the women he loved in his family. It is more than anyone would want to try to overcome. He writes this about what he has learned: I don’t think I will ever be able to comprehend God’s sovereignty…I have made peace with his sovereignty and have found comfort in it. It is no longer odious to me. Loss is as much a part of normal life as birth, for as surely as we are born into this world we suffer loss before we leave it…it is possible to live in and be enlarged by loss, even as we continue to experience it.” This is an incredible perspective from someone who has lived in the darkness and can still say that God doesn’t abandon us, even when we can’t sense Him there.

Questions:
Do you think godly people ever struggle to find God?
Can you think of any times this happened in The Bible?
When have you longed for God but still felt alone?
How long did this last and did anything good come out of it?
What does faith look like in times like this?
What promises of God can you still hold onto?
What advice would you share with someone who is struggling with this experience?

Deeper:
Genesis 28:10-17, 1 Kings 19:1-9, John 16:5-33, Hebrews 13:5-8, Lamentations 3:19-27.

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Weekly Devotion from Jesse

Monday, July 13 This Week
Week of: Aug 29, 2010, Aug 22, 2010, Aug 15, 2010, Aug 8, 2010
Topics: GETTING CLOSER TO GOD, GROWING IN YOUR FAITH, FINDING GOD'S TRUTH, COURAGEOUSLY FOLLOWING GOD, DISCOVERING GOD'S WILL, LEADERSHIP ROLES, TRIALS

A CHANGE OF SCENERY

Passage Of the Day:

By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went, even though he did not know where he was going. By faith he made his home in the promised land like a stranger in a foreign country; he lived in tents, as did Isaac and Jacob, who were heirs with him of the same promise. For he was looking forward to the city with foundations, whose architect and builder is God.

Hebrews 11:8-10 (New King James Version)

Insight - Application & Encouragement

Insight:
Abraham was being led by God to a new place. He grew up in Ur of the Chaldeans, but God did not want him to stay there. This was going to be difficult for several reasons: 1) He did not know where he was going. 2) Traveling large distances was not easy then. 3) He would have to explain this to his family. 4) He would be leaving the culture that is most comfortable to him. 5) He would be living in tents and endure rugged conditions. Can you relate to any of these experiences? But Abraham went because God told him to go and God was with him. Abraham also knew that this earth is not his home- his true home is in heaven. And lastly, God had some significant work for him to do, and this outweighed the challenges.

A Story:
Henri Nouwen was at Harvard when God led him to the Daybreak community near Toronto working with mentally handicapped people. It was one of the most powerful and rich learning experiences of his life: “Not being able to use any of the skills that had proved so practical in the past was a real source of anxiety. I was suddenly faced with my naked self…In a way, it seemed like I was starting my life all over again. Relationships, connections, reputations could no longer be counted on…completely vulnerable, open to receive and give love regardless of any accomplishments…That is the way Jesus came to reveal God’s love.”

Questions:
Is change difficult for you?
How do you weigh the different factors in a decision?
How do you know when God is leading you into something new?
Has a change in scenery ever stirred up your faith in a good way?
Are you listening for God’s promptings?

Deeper: Look at these people in the Bible and how God changed their places and directions:
Philip (Acts 8:4-8 and Acts 8:26-40), the Church in Jerusalem (Acts 8:1-3), Barnabas and Saul
(Acts 13:1-3), Moses (Exodus 3:1-4:31), Joshua (Joshua 1:1-18), the Israelites (Numbers 9:15-23).

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Weekly Devotion from Jesse

Monday, July 6 This Week
Week of: Aug 29, 2010, Aug 22, 2010, Aug 15, 2010, Aug 8, 2010
Topics: GETTING CLOSER TO GOD, GROWING IN YOUR FAITH, COURAGEOUSLY FOLLOWING GOD, DISCOVERING GOD'S WILL

TAKE THE WEIGHT OFF THE BAIT

Passage Of the Day:

“Then the word of the Lord came to Jonah a second time: Go to the great city of Nineveh and proclaim to it the message I give you. Jonah obeyed the word of the Lord and went to Nineveh.”

Jonah 3:1-3 (New King James Version)

Insight - Application & Encouragement

Insight:
God gave Jonah a second chance to complete his assigned role. The first time Jonah received it, he ran away from God. But given a second chance, Jonah is going to go where God wants him to go and say what God wants him to say. Armed with only one sentence of God’s word for the Ninevites, Jonah is fully equipped for the task. This chapter reminds us that we don’t need to put pressure on ourselves, God can take care of the task with His powerful Word.

Application:
Read Jonah chapter 3 and look at what we can learn from Jonah’s life:
1) When obedience and feelings conflict, go with obedience: Feelings are a blessing from God, but they can also be misleading. When we walk with God, there are going to be decisions we need to make when our feelings are going one way and God’s word is going the other direction. Some of your best spiritual decisions will be when you overcome your feelings and do what God wants even though it doesn’t initially feel good.
2) God’s word leads us into situations where courage is needed: Sharing God’s Word takes courage. Jonah walked into a violent city that has 120,000 people and he proclaims to them that they need to turn from their sin. How difficult is that? Sometimes God actually asks us to do the easier thing, but there will be times when God leads us into a challenging situation and asks us to step up for Him.
3) God’s Word can penetrate any heart: You never know who will turn to God. The Ninevites were fierce people who constantly tortured and killed their victims. They didn’t appear to have any interest in God. But when Jonah speaks to them with God’s truth and warning, they respond with a change of heart. Don’t give up on anyone before God does.
4) We often need to take our hands off the results: I remember as a kid grabbing the dashboard of the car thinking I could turn it myself. The driver looked at me with a ‘what are you doing?’ look. I actually thought I was turning the car. Jonah had trouble trusting God with the results of his actions. We are called to be faithful and leave the results up to God.

Questions:
1) Has there been a time when God was more forgiving than you?
2) When do your feelings help you?
3) When do your feelings get you into trouble?
4) When have you seen God’s Word change someone’s life?
5) Who do you need to share God’s Word with this week?
6) Is there any area of your life you need to repent with some urgency?
7) What is a good risk for God and when is a risk not good?

Deeper:
Read the following passage and focus on the topic that fits with each one:
1) Jeremiah 18: 7-10 - What hope is there for our country?
2) Nehemiah 8:1-6 – What happens when we increase God’s Word in our lives?
3) 2 Chronicles 33:1-16 – What can truly change our hearts?
4) Acts 8:1-4 – What can happen when we step up with courage?
5) Matthew 20:1-16 – What does God say about the results being His?
6) Isaiah 55:10-11 – How powerful is God’s Word?

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Weekly Devotion from Jesse

Monday, June 29 This Week
Week of: Aug 29, 2010, Aug 22, 2010, Aug 15, 2010, Aug 8, 2010
Topics: GETTING CLOSER TO GOD, GROWING IN YOUR FAITH, FINDING GOD'S TRUTH, DISCOVERING GOD'S WILL, LEADERSHIP ROLES, TRIALS

DIFFICULT TO SWALLOW

Passage Of the Day:

“From inside the fish Jonah prayed to the Lord his God. He said: In my distress I called to the Lord, and He answered me. From the depths of the grave I called for help and you listened to my cry.”

Jonah 2:1-2 (New King James Version)

Insight - Application & Encouragement

From The Inside Of A Fish?
Maybe you have heard that Jonah was swallowed by a whale, but actually the Bible just tells us that it was a great fish. It could have been a whale, or a shark, or something else. They are all present in the Mediterranean.
How could he survive? We know that there is up to 15 feet of room in the stomach of a large shark or whale. So plenty of elbow room for Jonah to stretch out in there. Also, we know that there is enough air present in the stomach of a fish to sustain Jonah too. Historically there have been accounts of people who have been swallowed and survived, but it was so long ago we don’t have great records of those instances.

What Did Jesus Think About Jonah?
In Matthew chapter 12, verses 39-41, Jesus told the crowds that they would not receive a miraculous sign from Him on that day. Instead, he pointed them to Jonah’s miracle. This statement does two important things:
1) Jesus affirms that Jonah really was swallowed by a great fish and then vomited onto dry land by that same fish three days later. It really happened.
2) Jesus uses Jonah’s experience to pint people to his own death and resurrection. There is a parallel example- both Jonah and Jesus were inside of the fish/the grave for three days before the reappeared. God’s miracle with Jonah was a preview of a greater miracle that would come hundreds of years later in the resurrection of Jesus.

A Quote:
“The splendor of a soul in grace is so seductive that it surpasses the beauty of all created things.” Thomas Aquinas

Application Questions:
1) Has there been a specific time in your life when God was taking away your pride?
2) Are there still areas of your life where you need more humility?
3) How has God built you back up and brought healing after a traumatic event?
4) When have you really experienced the grace of God- not just read about it.
5) Is God doing something new in your life this month- how would you describe it?
6) What are some ways that you think God would want you to show people His love in your city?

Deeper:
Psalm 40:1-17, Romans 5:3-5, Matthew 5:3-10, Proverbs 29:6, Psalm 142:1-7

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Weekly Devotion from Jesse

Monday, June 22 This Week
Week of: Aug 29, 2010, Aug 22, 2010, Aug 15, 2010, Aug 8, 2010
Topics: GETTING CLOSER TO GOD, GROWING IN YOUR FAITH, FINDING GOD'S TRUTH, COURAGEOUSLY FOLLOWING GOD, DISCOVERING GOD'S WILL

Trying to Sneak Away?

Passage Of the Day:

But Jonah ran away from the Lord and headed for Tarshish. He went down to Joppa, where he found a ship bound for that port. After paying the fare, he went aboard and sailed for Tarshish to flee from the Lord.

Jonah 1:3 (New King James Version)

Insight - Application & Encouragement

Introduction
Have you ever experienced a time in your life when you knew you were trying to sneak away from God? Maybe there was something God was clearly calling you to do that you turned away from? Or, maybe you are just rebelling from His commands? The only prophet in the Old testamnet who literally tried to run away from God was a man named Jonah -he was running fast away from God’s special purpose for his life. Jonah knew that God was calling him to speak to a city (Nineveh) where the people were indulgent in sin: violence, greed, lust, and witchcraft. Jonah didn't want to help the people of Nineveh, his enemy, but God’s heart is to reach every type of runaway!

The Truth About Rebellion
We live in a culture where rebellion is glorified and encouraged. We can get fooled into thinking it is a good thing. But in Jonah 1, we get a reality check- we learn quickly that rebellion against God is costly and exhausting. Jonah pays an extra fair to take a boat in the opposite direction of Nineveh. Has rebellion ever cost you more than you were expecting to pay? The cost continues as the boat begins to experience a God-sized storm and everyone is in fear and chaos. Where is Jonah? He is asleep, experiencing the exhaustion of his choice to run from God. Has your rebellion ever left you tired and exhausted? Rebellion can capture you time, money, energy, and heart.
Casting lots was a common practice to try to bring the truth out of a situation in this time. Jonah wasn’t quick to take responsibility for his actions and only by casting lots, was he found out (7-12). It can be too easy to avoid responsibility or accountability when you are running away from God. Rebellion will do anything to avoid any responsibility or accountability.
The truth about rebellion is it takes you places you never wanted to go. From verses 13-15, we soon learn Jonah’s fate as he is thrown over the boat to prevent the rest of the sailors and the boat from capsizing. Jonah’s rebellion not only endangered his own life, but the lives of all those around him. Rebellion rarely affects only the person who is running away. Has rebellion taken you to a place you did not intend to go?
The surprise in this story is God’s reaction to Jonah, the sailors, and even the people of Nineveh. As soon as Jonah is thrown overboard, the storm quickly subsides, and the sailors realize God’s mighty and merciful hand as they turn to Him. It is comforting to know the great kindness and compassion of God is greater than our rebellion.

Runaways:
There are three different runaways in the book of Jonah, and God has a different way of reaching out to each of them:
1) The Sailors: God uses a fierce storm to humble them and show them that He is the one true God and in control.
Has God ever used a major trial or storm in your life to help you return to Him?
2) Jonah: God uses a great fish to change Jonah's heart- something supernatural.
Has God ever done something in your life that was clearly supernaturally from His hand to get your attention?
3) Nineveh: God uses a reluctant prophet to point the people in this city to Him.
Has God ever sent someone to you to speak to you about Him?

Prayer
“Dear God, I thank You that You don’t treat us as our sins deserve. Forgive me of my rebellion. I want to turn to You and stop running away from You. Please be my strength and show me how to get through these trials. Thank You for welcoming me back to You. I am willing to do what You want me to do and say what You want me to say. In Jesus’ merciful Name I pray, amen.”

Deeper
Psalm 139:1-24, Jonah 1:1-17, Psalm 40: 1-17, Psalm 32:1-11, Proverbs 28:13-14, Luke 15:11-31, Isaiah 30:15, Luke 19:41.

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Weekly Devotion from Jesse

Monday, June 8 This Week
Week of: Aug 29, 2010, Aug 22, 2010, Aug 15, 2010, Aug 8, 2010
Topics: GETTING CLOSER TO GOD, FINDING GOD'S TRUTH, PRAYER, DISCOVERING GOD'S WILL

INFLUENCING GENERATIONS

Passage Of the Day:

Then the elders and all those at the gate said, “We are witnesses. May the Lord make the woman who is coming into your home like Rachel and Leah, who together built up the house of Israel. May you have standing in Ephrathah and be famous in Bethlehem.”

Ruth 4:11 (New King James Version)

Insight - Application & Encouragement

Extreme Home Makeover
Have you seen the television series that showcases a group of strangers coming together to build a house for an unsuspecting family? Extreme Home Makeovers has changed the lives of many needy families. And, at the end of each episode, the host of the show says, “Welcome home, family!”
In a similar way, Ruth and Naomi experience an extreme home makeover, by God’s grace and mercy. It is not a brand new house that they receive, but a new family and a new life. In Ruth 4, we read the final outcome of Ruth and Naomi’s fate, and we are given a glimpse into the future generations that God will bring through the home of Boaz and Ruth.

Insight
There is a difference between a house and a home. Ruth and Boaz built a home together which was based on God’s love. The three words that describe their home are:
1) Selfless: In chapter 4:1-10, we learn of Boaz’s selflessness as he goes to a nearer Kinsman Redeemer (someone who is closer in the family line to marry Ruth) to see if the man would want to take Ruth and Naomi. After the man declines, Boaz redeems Ruth. Ruth also showed her selflessness in following Naomi rather than seeking her own good. Do you live in a home where selfishness is diminishing?
2) Prayerful: We also read in chapter 4:11-12 that blessings and prayers were spoken over Ruth and Boaz’s marriage. Is prayer important in your life and in your home? Psalm 127:1 tells us that unless God builds the home, those who labor are laboring in vain. In other words, God’s presence, love, and power will be the foundation of a home that will last and stand through life’s trials.
3) Influential: Ruth 4:11-23 tells us that because both Boaz and Ruth were people of noble character (they did the right thing), they had standing in their community and a positive influence among the people in their city. How do the people around you see your family? The most outstanding part of the home of Ruth and Boaz is who came out of their lineage. They were the great-grandparents of David, the one whom God promised a descendent who’s kingdom would be established forever (1 Chronicles 17:13-14). That is Jesus Christ – our Savior and most wonderful Redeemer. Ruth and Boaz had purpose and were a part of setting a course for future generations (the benefits even extend for you and me!).

Questions
1. What three words describe your family life most accurately?

2. What are the three words that you would like to be true of your home?

3. Of the three areas (selfless, prayerful, and influential) that describe Ruth and Boaz’s home, which ones stand out to you as needing the most work in your family? What can you do to initiate a new direction in this area?

4. You may feel like your family is in need of an extreme makeover, and you are not sure where to begin. Ruth came from a very challenging place in her life, but prayer and blessings were spoken over her and Boaz. Who supports you and speaks blessings over you?

5. Why do so many people compromise in the area of choosing someone to date or marry? Are you committed to only dating someone who exhibits the same qualities of godliness as Ruth and Boaz? What can you learn from their relationship?

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Weekly Devotion from Jesse

Thursday, June 4 This Week
Week of: Aug 29, 2010, Aug 22, 2010, Aug 15, 2010, Aug 8, 2010
Topics: GETTING CLOSER TO GOD, FINDING GOD'S TRUTH, PRAYER, TRIALS

PURSUING REDEMPTION

Passage Of the Day:

“And now, my daughter, don’t be afraid. I will do for you whatever you ask. All my fellow townsmen know that you are a woman of noble character.”

Ruth 3:11 (New King James Version)

Insight - Application & Encouragement

Insight:
The word “redeem” means to restore something that has been broken, destroyed, or flawed. In the book of Ruth, we learn the true story of two women whose lives had been broken by the loss of their family members (husbands/sons). If anyone desperately needed redemption, it was Ruth and Naomi. Have you ever been in a situation in which you needed to receive or give redemption?

Developing a Lifestyle of Redemption:
1) Making wise preparations (1-6): The restoration process doesn’t just happen by itself. It takes someone who is willing to pursue it. Naomi and Ruth wanted redemption. The first step in chapter 3, was to make wise preparations (v.1-6). Naomi gave Ruth specific instructions in seeking the eventual redemption of Boaz, the kinsman redeemer (fancy term for the next best man to marry Ruth). The redemption process may mean taking some time to think out a situation and making a plan. It may also include seeking advice from wise people who follow God.
2) Knowing when to extend yourself (7-9): In verse 7-9, we see how Ruth chose the proper time to extend herself to Boaz. For Ruth, it was to come to Boaz in the middle of the night to seek his favor. You may find that in your life, in order to restore a situation, you need to approach the situation at the most opportune time.
3) Choosing the right process (10-14): The next step taken was to choose the right process to finalize the restoration. Boaz did not take advantage of Ruth’s vulnerability. Instead, he followed the process that had been set. Boaz gave instructions of seeking the approval of the kinsman redeemer nearer to Ruth (v.10-14). Rather than operating on his own desires, Boaz chose to follow God’s process.
4) Waiting well for the results (15-18): The waiting well was the final step in the redeeming process. Is it ever easy to wait? But, Ruth went back to Naomi and together they waited for the answer from Boaz (v.15-18). You may find that your situation requires weeks, months, or many years of waiting to see an answer. It could be that you took the proper steps to restore a broken friendship and now you have to wait for the response. Maybe you have a friend you want to put their trust in Jesus, the ultimate Redeemer. He made the most incredible sacrifice to restore a relationship with Him.

Application
The lifestyle of redemption may require some great personal risks. Can you think of a situation that needs some redemption: A strained relationship? Someone who is struggling financially? Someone who has been rejected by the world? Is there a situation at school? Or an opportunity at your job? Encouraging someone who is far away from God? Comforting someone who had a bad experience at church? Grieving with someone who is mourning?

Reviewing the steps below, what can you do to begin the redemption process?

1) Making wise preparations

2) Knowing when to extend yourself.
3) Choosing the right process.
4) Waiting well for the results.

Deeper:
Jeremiah 38:1-13, Ephesians 5:15-18, Galatians 4:4-5, Job 19:25, Psalm 103:1-4

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Weekly Devotion from Jesse

Tuesday, May 19 This Week
Week of: Aug 29, 2010, Aug 22, 2010, Aug 15, 2010, Aug 8, 2010
Topics: GETTING CLOSER TO GOD, GROWING IN YOUR FAITH, FINDING GOD'S TRUTH, COURAGEOUSLY FOLLOWING GOD, PRAYER, DISCOVERING GOD'S WILL, TRIALS

THE PROVISION OF GOD

Passage Of the Day:

Boaz replied, “I’ve been told all about what you have done for your mother-in-law since the death of your husband- how you left your father and mother and your homeland and came to live with a people you did not know before. May the Lord repay you for what you have done. May you be richly rewarded by the Lord, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to take refuge.”

Ruth 2:11-12 (New King James Version)

Insight - Application & Encouragement

Introduction
Have you found yourself in a new place, with new surroundings, and not many resources? Maybe you are changing jobs, changing schools, or seeking new friends. If you are facing a life challenge in which you feel you have hit rock bottom, you might find yourself identifying with Ruth and Naomi.
In Chapter 2 of Ruth, the story of two widowed women who just moved to a new land (From Moab to Bethlehem) and owned virtually nothing begins to unfold. Out of what seems like some screenplay blockbuster movie we see how a series of circumstances allow for food, favor, and future hope for the widows in desperate need.

Insight
Ruth’s choice to steadily serve Naomi by gleaning for wheat came with some social implications. The poorest of people would try to pick up the wheat that all of the crews ahead of them missed just to provide a few extra morsels for their family. God put this into place through his generosity in Leviticus 19:9-10. The women lingering in the back of the line were at an increased safety risk. But, God used Ruth’s willingness to serve her family as an open a door of favor with the owner of the field, Boaz.
Boaz was also apart of a family line who’s association with would put Ruth and Naomi in a healthy community and protection. Ruth’s character was quickly noted by Boaz and gained favor and a future hope that she would be able to provide for Naomi and herself. What comfort Ruth must have felt after her diligence paid off in her time of trouble!
After reading the chapter, it is shocking to see how Ruth’s small steps forward brought huge dividends in the outcome of her and Naomi’s life. It could be easy to say the worldly statement, “what a coincidence?!” But, no it is not a coincidence. It is the hand of God to bring about such an event!

Application:
Below is a quick recap of some things to remember when you face rock bottom. Please take the time now to review and ask God to speak to your heart on how to approach your situation in life, whether you are at the bottom or just coasting along. Make it a point to take some action that will lead you through this time in your life and ask God to speak to you and to guide you. Here are some practical helps from Ruth Chapter 2 (read the chapter then look at these applications):

1) Know that God can open doors in any situation (v. 1-3).
2) Take the initiative and serve the people around you (v. 1-3).
3) Locate a spiritually healthy community (v. 4).
4) Your character and actions will speak louder than you realize (v. 5-12).
5) God's comfort in our troubles usually arrives through His servants
(v. 13-19).
6) Honor the Lord: don't give the glory to coincidence (v. 20-23).

Prayer:
I thank you God that you provide for us even when we are at rock bottom and can’t see a way out. I thank you for the greatest provision you gave me by sending Your Son, Jesus, to save me from my sin and give me a new life. I want to trust you now for guiding me through this time. I surrender to You, God. In Jesus’ Name I pray, amen.

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Weekly Devotion from Jesse

Monday, May 4 This Week
Week of: Aug 29, 2010, Aug 22, 2010, Aug 15, 2010, Aug 8, 2010
Topics: GETTING CLOSER TO GOD, GROWING IN YOUR FAITH, FINDING GOD'S TRUTH, PRAYER, DISCOVERING GOD'S WILL, HANDLING CONFLICT

AN APPETITE FOR GOD

Passage Of the Day:

As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, O God.
My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When can I go and meet with God?

Psalm 42:1-2 (New King James Version)

Insight - Application & Encouragement

Insight:
The author of psalm 42 is a ‘son of Korah’ which is the Levitical choir appointed by David to serve in the temple- today’s equivalent would be a worship leader. This is a very honest and vulnerable psalm written by someone in a leadership position. Even long term Christians and leaders have struggles in their walk with God. He doesn’t hide what is happening in his life, he puts it out there for us to read.
As you read all of psalm 42, you will notice there is despair: 5 times the word downcast/despair/disturbed is used. At the same time, the psalmist, often with tears and surrounded by people taunting him, continues to yet praise God and thirst for God in the deepest way. The deer that is mentioned in these verses is a hart deer which can be up to 300lbs and have 6 antlers. This is no wimpy or small hunger for God.

Application:
1) Self-sufficiency is too heavy a burden to carry:
The psalmist is saying to God that I can’t do this on my own- life is too difficult.
2) Have spiritual longings that won’t be satisfied too easily:
We often find food, television, sleep, or drugs to replace an experience with God.
3) Hope from God is more real than it feels:
Like us, the psalmist’s feelings waver between praise and lament. God’s hope is there the entire time, but it is often closer and more sure than it feels.
4) The wrong carrot leads to the wrong destination:
Everyone is chasing some kind of carrot in life. The psalmist gets rid of all carrots, so God is the pursuit. Chase the wrong thing and you end up in the wrong place in life.
5) You won’t do better than God’s presence:
Read psalm 42 and find the places where we find that God is refreshment for the weary, love for the lonely, a rock for the insecure, peace for the soul, a song for the downcast, and help for the one who is outnumbered.

Questions:
When have you been thirsty for God?
What have been the richest times in God’s presence?
Do you seek God more when the situation is worse?
What are some of the carrots that you are chasing now?
When can you trust your feelings?

Deeper:
Read psalm 42 out loud with some passion. Then write out a psalm to God describing your situation in life right now.

More about Jesse
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Weekly Devotion from Jesse

Monday, April 27 This Week
Week of: Aug 29, 2010, Aug 22, 2010, Aug 15, 2010, Aug 8, 2010
Topics: GETTING CLOSER TO GOD, GROWING IN YOUR FAITH, FINDING GOD'S TRUTH, COURAGEOUSLY FOLLOWING GOD

Another Chance

Passage Of the Day:

When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you truly love me more than these?” “Yes, Lord,” he said, “you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Feed my lambs.”
Again Jesus said, “Simon son of John, do you truly love me?” He answered, “Yes, Lord, you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Take care of my sheep.”
The third time he said to him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, “Do you love me?” He said, “Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Feed my sheep.”

John 21:15-17 (New King James Version)

Insight - Application & Encouragement

Insight:
Peter just made the three worst decisions of his life. After being hand-picked by Jesus to lead the Christian movement (a pretty important role), he publicly and blatantly denied Jesus three times. This is a man in need of restoration.
Peter’s head must have been spinning. With three denials and the crucifixion of Jesus, he experienced some of his lowest points of despair. But, with the resurrection and Jesus’ appearances to the disciples, hope is awakened. As he sits on the shore, eating fish and bread with Jesus, he has an opportunity to make things right with The Lord.

Three Times:
Peter denied Jesus three times and now Jesus asks Peter three times if he loves Jesus. Jesus is not trying to rub it in Peter’s face about his past failure. But Jesus is making sure that it is a deep restoration. Jesus wants Peter to make a strong and clear decision to follow Him. The denial took place by a fire (see John chapter 18), and now next to the fire, Peter can choose to the right decision.
When Jesus asks Peter do you love me- he uses the Greek word ‘agape’ which is the highest kind of love. Peter responds twice by saying yes with the Greek word ‘phileo’ which is a brotherly love. The third time Jesus asks, he uses the word ‘phileo’ and Peter says yes again that he loves Jesus. Peter is a more realistic man after his failure, he is realistic and humble. He does love Jesus and will prove it by helping other people spiritually as Jesus wants. Restoration usually involves doing something positive.

A Story:
I was looking for a coffee table, and I found one for 15 dollars at a used furniture store. When I returned home, it fit really well in the living room. I was happy with the bargain- for a few hours- then I noticed a cigarette smoke smell in my condo which was coming from the table. Not exactly a great smell in a pastor’s condo. A friend told me to just spray it with a product called Fabrese which would leave a nice fresh scent. After spraying the table, the smell was gone. But then a few hours later, the room smelled like both Fabrese and cigarette smoke. Five layers of Fabrese on the surface of the table didn’t remove the smell. We often try to come up with a surface version of restoration when Jesus wants to do a deep work in our lives. Jesus wasn’t going to let Peter come up with a Fabrese answer. Jesus knew only a deep restoration would last in Peter’s life. Peter was faithful to the end of his life: spreading the gospel to the world, writing Scripture, using his gift of leadership, fearlessly following Jesus until he was a martyr and died by crucifixion too.

Questions:
1) What are the top three things that you would like God to restore in your life?
2) Have you ever had a shallow restoration with God- like the Fabrese solution?
3) Is there anyone that you need to forgive or apologize to?
4) How do Christians deny Jesus today?
5) Can you show your love to Jesus by helping someone spiritually?

Deeper:
Study John chapter 18 and the three denials of Peter- what can you learn from them?
Then study John chapter 21. Notice the distraction that comes at the end of the chapter. How do you continue to stay in your lane and run your race when distractions come?

More about Jesse
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