THE CONSOLATION OF ISRAEL

IN THE BEGINNING...THE WORD
DAILY DEVOTIONAL FOR TODAY, DECEMBER 24, 2012

THE CONSOLATION OF ISRAEL
And in that day thou shalt say, O LORD, I will praise thee: though thou wast angry with me, thine anger is turned away, and thou comfortedst me.
Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and not be afraid: for the LORD JEHOVAH is my strength and my song; he also is become my salvation.
Therefore with joy shall ye draw water out of the wells of salvation.
And in that day shall ye say, Praise the LORD, call upon his name, declare his doings among the people, make mention that his name is exalted.
Sing unto the LORD; for he hath done excellent things: this is known in all the earth.
Cry out and shout, thou inhabitant of Zion: for great is the Holy One of Israel in the midst of thee.   Isaiah 12:1-6

Jesus is the comfort of Israel.  He came to seek and to save her.  He loves her with an everlasting love.  How wonderful!!   The Consolation of Israel is a title for the Messiah among the Jewish people.  Simeon, a believer in Jesus, declared at the seeing of the Christ child that the long-awaited Messiah had arrived:
And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him.
And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord's Christ.
And he came by the Spirit into the temple: and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him after the custom of the law,
Then took he him up in his arms, and blessed God, and said,
Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word:
For mine eyes have seen thy salvation,
Which thou hast prepared before the face of all people;
A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel. Luke 2:25-32 


 Have you ever been comforted or loved deeply in a dry and weary land?  Have you ever had your heart consoled or your soul refreshed?  Have you ever been saved from your enemies?  Have you ever had a savior?  If you have ever known  deep comfort and consolation, then you know that there are wells of water in this salvation--streams of thankfulness, rivers of joy, springs of refreshing.  Jesus is the consolation of Israel--giving her praise, joy, and refreshing. 

Today, enjoy Jesus in spirit and in truth!

FORBID THEM NOT

IN THE BEGINNING...THE WORD
DAILY DEVOTIONAL FOR TODAY, DECEMBER 23, 2012

FORBID THEM NOT

And they brought young children to him, that he should touch them: and his disciples rebuked those that brought  them.
But when Jesus saw it, he was much displeased, and said unto them, Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God.
Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child, he shall not enter therein.
And he took them up in his arms, put his hands upon them, and blessed them. Mark 10:13-16

There is so much violence against children.  The innocent ones are so often scorned and set aside.  As adults, many of us care not to tolerate the distractions that little ones bring.  We want quiet and order and an undisturbed environments.  We want adult talk, and adult conduct and conversation.  But Jesus says that we are to "suffer the little ones."  Yes, we are to move aside for the little ones.  We are to make room for them; ensure that our environments are child friendly, child welcoming, child permitting.  Jesus obviously doesn't see little ones as ramunctious creatures to be put aside.  He instead wants us to learn lessons from our children.  They are beautiful.  Their eyes are full of wonder and innocence.  They are caring, holding us close--trusting and believing in our good.  They are full of energy and life and creativity.  They are like the kingdom of God.

This brings me to thoughts of the Christmas story.  Do you think that there was no room at the inn in Bethlehem because the innkeepers didn't want to be bothered with the possibility of a newborn in their midst?  I wonder if the innkeepers ignored the birth of Mary's firstborn son, leaving him outside in the manger (read Luke 2:7).

Today, let us not ignore the little ones...let  us not forbid them. 

UPHELD IN INTEGRITY

IN THE BEGINNING...THE WORD
DAILY DEVOTIONAL FOR TODAY, DECEMBER 19, 2012

UPHELD IN INTEGRITY

And as for me, thou upholdest me in mine integrity, and settest me before thy face for ever.
Psalm 41:12

Trials and persecution come to all of us.  Nevertheless, as we live lives of purity, sincerity, and truth, we are divinely protected in every situation.  God will uphold you in your integrity, but the wicked walk in slippery places. 

Today, know that your integrity will bring you to peace.

HE WILL COMMAND HIS CHILDREN AND HOUSEHOLD

IN THE BEGINNING...THE WORDDAILY DEVOTIONAL FOR TODAY, DECEMBER 18, 2012 HE WILL COMMAND HIS CHILDREN AND HOUSEHOLD

For I know him, that he will command his children and his household after him, and they shall keep the way of the LORD, to do justice and judgment; that the LORD may bring upon Abraham that which he hath spoken of him. Genesis 18:19

It takes a lot of hard work to keep your children and household under the rule of God.  You must preserve them from the influences and affections of the world.  But God knew that Abraham would overcome the trials and frustrations to command his children and household.  God knew that Abraham would keep, guide, secure his children and household in the way of the LORD.

Today, I pray that God will give you the strength to do that which is difficult, but expected. 

OUR FAITH SHALL NOT FAIL

IN THE BEGINNING...THE WORD
DAILY DEVOTIONAL FOR TODAY, DECEMBER 17, 2012

  OUR FAITH SHALL NOT FAIL

And the Lord said,Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat: But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren. Luke 22:31,32

Satan is busy trying to sift us.  He uses everyone and everything to attack us, in hopes of disouraging us and destroying our faith.  But Jesus is praying for us, and he has determined to sustain our faith. Regardless of life's circumstance, we are divinely sustained in and through every situation. "It is  God that avengeth me, and subdueth the people under me.He delivereth me from mine enemies: yea, thou liftest me up above those that rise up against me: thou hast delivered me from the violent man" (Psalm 18:47, 48).  "It is God that avengeth me, and that bringeth down the people under me, And that bringeth me forth from mine enemies: thou also hast lifted me up on high above them that rose up against me: thou hast delivered me from the violent man" (2 Samuel 22:48,49).
Even as great forces rise against you, the Lord will keep you and raise you up above the conflict. He will make your faith strong and secure. 
Today, our faith shall fail not.

BEHOLD, AND BE WHOLE

IN THE BEGINNING…THE WORD

DAILY DEVOTIONAL FOR TODAY, DECEMBER 16, 2012
BEHOLD, AND BE WHOLE

“And Moses made a serpent of brass and put it upon a pole, and it came to pass that if a serpent had bitten any man, when he beheld the serpent of brass, he lived.” Numbers 21:9

“And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up:  That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life.”  John 3:14, 15

“Surely, he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken of God, and afflicted. But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes, we are healed.”  Isaiah 53:4

I often meditate on the cross.  I behold it in my mind, and think on the goodness of Jesus.  We must learn to behold Christ on the cross; for as we consider the blood of Jesus, the blessed sacrifice that our Savior gave, we are made whole.  Yes, we are healed in the beholding.  Not only are we healed, Jesus will take our grief and sorrow to himself, when we call on Him.  Moreover, in a divine and supernatural way, the body of Christ is now afforded beauty instead of regrets, joy instead of mourning, and the ability to praise instead of the heaviness (weariness).  Scripture says it like this: "The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me; because he hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek,; he hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound;  To proiclaim the acceptable year of the LORD, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all that mourn;To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the LORD, that he might be glorified" (Isaiah 61:1-3)

Do you realize the power of the cross?  We have a priest “after the order of Melchisedec” (see Hebrews, Chapter 7).  Jesus' sacrifice has the “power of an endless life” (Hebrews 7:16); for Jesus “abideth a priest continually” (Hebrew 7:3).  The cross is not a dead symbol representing a one time occurance that  we are to recall on Good Friday.  No, we must live in the power and the eternality of the cross.  We must receive the newness of life that Christ purchased for us, and not only the priceless gift of salvation, but health and wholeness.  Jesus was once bruised, wounded and chastised so that the people of God would  be forever blessed, forever whole, forever healthy, forever safe in Christ Jesus. 

Today, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sins of the world.

INTENSIVE CARE

IN THE BEGINNING…THE WORD

DAILY DEVOTIONAL FOR TODAY, DECEMBER 12, 2012
INTENSIVE CARE

And when Jesus was come into Peter's house, he saw his wife's mother laid, and sick of a fever.

And he touched her hand, and the fever left her: and she arose, and ministered unto them.
When the even was come, they brought unto him many that were possessed with devils: and he cast out the spirits with his word, and healed all that were sick:
That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias the prophet, saying, Himself took our infirmities, and bare our sicknesses. Matthew 8:14-17

 Jesus not only purchased our salvation, he heals our diseases.  In Psalm103:3 the Lord is the one “Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases.”  Throughout the New Testament Jesus is the one who loves mankind and restores health:  “And his fame went throughout all Syria: and they brought unto him all sick people that were taken with divers diseases and torments, and those which were possessed with devils, and those which were lunatick, and those that had the palsy; and he healed them” (Matthew 4:24).

 Sometimes we forget how much of our ministry to others is to help them feel better.  With love and gentleness, we are to serve one another... and care.  The Apostle Paul said of his ministry, “But we were gentle among you, even as a nurse cherisheth her children: So being affectionately desirous of you, we were willing to have imparted unto you, not the gospel of God only, but also our own souls, because ye were dear unto us” I Thessalonians 2:7, 8  Wow.  That is intensive care. 

Today, and forevermore, let us be gentle among one another, restoring health through the Spirit of God.

TAKE AWAY THE DROSS

IN THE BEGINNING…THE WORD

DAILY DEVOTIONAL FOR TODAY, DECEMBER 11, 2012

TAKE AWAY THE DROSS

Take away the dross from the silver, and there shall come forth a vessel for the finer.  Proverbs 25:4

Fit for the master’s use…that is God’s goal for us.  So, He must take away the dross from our lives--  that which is impure, unclean, unbecoming, unnecessary.  He must also take away the dross from our character—that which is unforgiving, unlovely, unlike Christ.   Whatever the process of sanctification, God’s goal is that we come forth, a vessel for the finer.

Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity. But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of earth; and some to honour, and some to dishonour. If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master's use, and prepared unto every good work. 2 Timothy 2:19-21

 Today, let God take away whatever is necessary for His glory.

THE KINGDOM OF GOD IS NOT MEAT AND DRINK

IN THE BEGINNING…THE WORD

DAILY DEVOTIONAL FOR TODAY, DECEMBER 10, 2012
THE KINGDOM OF GOD IS NOT MEAT AND DRINK

For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.  Romans 14:17

How often does the world attempt to minimize God?  How quickly the world attempts to depreciate the significance of His kingdom.  Why are the saints of God troubled by so many things other than that which is essential?  For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but RIGHTEOUSNESS, AND PEACE, AND JOY IN THE HOLY GHOST. 

The story of Martha and Mary comes to mind when thinking of that which is significant in the Kingdom of God.  This story of Martha and Mary can be found in the book of Luke, and reads as follows: 

Now it came to pass, as they went, that he entered into a certain village: and a certain woman named Martha received him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, which also sat at Jesus' feet, and heard his word.
But Martha was cumbered about much serving, and came to him, and said, Lord, dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? bid her therefore that she help me.

And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things: But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her. Luke 10:38-42

 Throughout history people have continually tried to infer that the kingdom was about meat, drink, circumcision, holydays --taking the focus off of Jesus.  But we are warned in Scripture to beware of such vain deceits:

Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.

For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily.

And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power:

In whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ:

Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead.

And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses;

 Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross;

And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it.  Let no man therefore judge you in meat, or in drink, or in respect of an holyday, or of the new moon, or of the sabbath days: Which are a shadow of things to come; but the body is of Christ.

 Colossians 2:8-17

 Jesus Christ has destroyed, spoiled and triumphed over every lesser thing.  He has triumphed over every thing that would consume your time, take your mind, or exalt itself above the power of God.  In Christ, you are complete.  He has accomplished your salvation.  Rise above every vain pursuit and hold onto Christ as you dwell in the Kingdom of God!

 Today, let us thank God that the kingdom of God is not in meat and drink but wholly and completely in Christ Jesus.

SACRIFICE MADE NEW

IN THE BEGINNING…THE WORD

DAILY DEVOTIONAL FOR TODAY, DECEMBER 9, 2012
SACRIFICE MADE NEW
If any man come to me, and hate not his father, and mother, and wife, and children, and brethren, and sisters, yea, and his own life also, he cannot be my disciple.  And whosoever doth not bear his cross, and come after me, cannot be my disciple. Luke 14:26,27

In the Old Testament, it is quite easy to see God’s desire for sacrifice. God commanded blood sacrifices to be given as an offering unto the Lord. These sacrifices were necessary in order to approach the presence of God and for fellowship with God.  But in the New Testament, Jesus becomes the one sacrifice needed for entry into the presence of God.  The blood of Jesus is atonement for all of our sins, past, present and future.  Now we may rest in the one-time sacrifice of Christ, which purchased our salvation.  But we must still sacrifice:  for we must bear our cross.

In the New Testament, sacrifice is still essential, but it is altogether new.  Jesus gives us insight into the heart of sacrifice when he says, “No man can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other.  Ye cannot serve God and mammon” (Matthew 6:24).  It is true that in order to love and serve God, we must sacrifice the lifestyle of Mammon.  We must hate the lordship that money attempts to impose over our lives.  Our decisions should not be based primarily on money, but our decisions must be governed and ruled by God.  What career will you choose?  How many children will you have?  Will you go to college... or just fast forward to millionaire status?  The Scriptures teach us to sacrifice our love for money, and instead, love the life that God deems best, whether rich or poor. 

In the book of Hebrews, the Apostle Paul states, “Thou hast loved righteousness, and hated iniquity; therefore God, even thy God, hath anointed thee with the oil of gladness above thy fellows” (Hebrews 1:9)  No doubt, if we truly love righteousness, we must hate iniquity.  If you love honoring God and keeping his commands, you must hate cheating, stealing, fornication and slander.  As servants of Christ, we must sacrifice corrupt communication. “But let your communication be, Yea, yea; Nay, nay: for whatsoever is more than these cometh of evil” (Matthew 5:37).

God models sacrifice when he declares: “Jacob have I loved ; but Esau have I hated” ( Romans 9:13).  God chooses and promotes whomsoever he chooses.  He lifts up one and puts down another.  This is the essence of sacrifice.  What are you lifting up in your life today?  What do you need to sacrifice? 

Sacrifice is often the price we must pay to accomplish a task.  Have you ever tried working with opposing forces? Perhaps you have been on a team where two members are in opposition.  Nothing can get accomplished, right?  That is how it is in our lives when we refuse to sacrifice the things of the flesh.  “For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would” (Galatians 5:17).  The flesh desires the things that hinder the Spirit and the Spirit desires the things that crush the flesh.  No wonder the bible tells us , “A double minded man is unstable in all his ways” (James 1:8). 

Today, let us  sacrifice that which is necessary to accomplish our tasks in the Lord.

THE PATH OF THE JUST

IN THE BEGINNING...THE WORD
DAILY DEVOTIONAL FOR TODAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2012

THE PATH OF THE JUST

But the path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day.  Proverbs 4:18

THANKSGIVING!

IN THE BEGINNING...THE WORD
DAILY DEVOTIONAL FOR TODAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2012

THANKSGIVING!
 
Praise ye the LORD: for it is good to sing praises unto our God; for it is pleasant; and praise is comely.
The LORD doth build up Jerusalem: he gathereth together the outcasts of Israel.
He healeth the broken in heart, and bindeth up their wounds.
He telleth the number of the stars; he calleth them all by their names.
Great is our Lord, and of great power: his understanding is infinite.
The LORD lifteth up the meek: he casteth the wicked down to the ground.
Sing unto the LORD with thanksgiving; sing praise upon the harp unto our God:
Who covereth the heaven with clouds, who prepareth rain for the earth, who maketh grass to grow upon the mountains.
He giveth to the beast his food, and to the young ravens which cry.
He delighteth not in the strength of the horse: he taketh not pleasure in the legs of a man.
The LORD taketh pleasure in them that fear him, in those that hope in his mercy.
Praise the LORD, O Jerusalem; praise thy God, O Zion.
For he hath strengthened the bars of thy gates; he hath blessed thy children within thee.
He maketh peace in thy borders, and filleth thee with the finest of the wheat.
He sendeth forth his commandment upon earth: his word runneth very swiftly.
He giveth snow like wool: he scattereth the hoarfrost like ashes.
He casteth forth his ice like morsels: who can stand before his cold?
He sendeth out his word, and melteth them: he causeth his wind to blow, and the waters flow.
He sheweth his word unto Jacob, his statutes and his judgments unto Israel.He hath not dealt so with any nation: and as for his judgments, they have not known them. Praise ye the LORD.
Psalm 147

There is so much to give thanks for.  Today, I am so thankful for the love and guidance of my heavenly Father.  I am grateful for the everlasting comforts of His Son. I praise God for His priceless salvation, joy, and peace.  And, by the way, I am thankful for you. 
Today, Happy Thanksgiving to you...and praises to our Father!

THE PATH OF LIFE

IN THE BEGINNING...THE WORD
DAILY DEVOTIONAL FOR TODAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2012

THE PATH OF LIFE

Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore. Psalm 16:11
As we submit to fellowship with God, He shows us the path of life.  We submit to God through daily reading of the Scriptures, prayer, worship, fellowship with the saints, fasting and meditations on the Word. As we behold the WORD we enter the presence of God  and we partake in the fulness of His joy.  The Holy Spirit will illumine our path as we live and move and have our being in Him.  And as we walk in the Spirit we will find that God will pour out pleasures for evermore.

Today, ask God to show you the path of life.

REVIVAL!

IN THE BEGINNING…THE WORD
DAILY DEVOTIONAL FOR TODAY, November 20, 2012

 REVIVAL!

Though I walk in the midst of trouble, thou wilt revive me: thou shalt stretch forth thine hand against the wrath of mine enemies, and thy right hand shall save me. Psalm 138:7

So often we wait for a change to come, not knowing when it will arrive.  Like Simeon and Anna steadfast in the temple awaiting the birth of Christ, so we wait ,and have waited for revival.  Revival often comes in the midst of trouble, as our enemies pursue, determined to destroy our peace.  But like the birth of Christ, revival is worth the wait... because it is so sweet and immeasurably wonderful.  I have noticed that God often uses babies to establish revival.  Just when things couldn’t get any worse…”It’s a boy!”  That is how it has been for me.  The last eighteen months have been full of revival as I have had the unbelievable pleasure of being Mom to Samuel.  He is a toddler now, full of energy and newness of life.  His laughter is more majestic than any symphony, and his smile is to live for.  What an amazing God! 

God wants to bring you to revival--maybe not a baby, but definitely newness of life.  Wait for it.  Expect it.

Today, let us praise God for revival, and let us stay—expecting!

ALWAYS ABOUNDING

 

IN THE BEGINNING…THE WORD

DAILY DEVOTIONAL FOR TODAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2012

ALWAYS ABOUNDING

But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.  I Corinthians 15:57, 58

How thankful I am for faithful ministers of the Gospel.  They are always abounding, bringing forth fruit for the kingdom of God.   We certainly have good reason to be steadfast and unmovable…for Christ has already given us the victory over sin and the law.  We abound in grace; there is now no condemnation.  In this wonderful Kingdom of God, we are free to do good works, and to pursue blessing, and to give, and to pour out, and to demonstrate, and to preach, and to fast and pray.   For our labor is not in vain in the LORD!

In the world, our labor is so often in vain, isn’t it?  We spend so much time trying to please others, only to find that they have little time to notice our efforts, or to preserve them. But in the Kingdom of God, our work is used to edify one another, to minister to Christ, and to build up the body.  God makes sure that our work is noticed, appreciated, and preserved for now, and throughout eternity. Moreover, through the grace that Christ has given, we can work with pleasure and joy because God loves us as we labor. The mean man of condemnation is not there to condemn us.  We are standing before KINGS.

Seest thou a man diligent in his business? He shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean men. Proverbs 22:29

Today, and always, let us abound!

NEWNESS OF LIFE IN JESUS

IN THE BEGINNING…THE WORD

DAILY DEVOTIONAL FOR TODAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2012
NEWNESS OF LIFE IN JESUS

Therefore as by the offence of one judgment came upon all men to condemnation; even so by the righteousness of one the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life.  Romans 5:18

Satan knows that we have been given the right to life by Jesus Christ; he just doesn’t want us to know that fact.  Satan uses condemnation to keep Christians from living.  He flaunts the sin of man in the Christian’s face, reminding us of his busy affairs.  He wants to keep the Christian focused on the condemned flesh so that there is no hope of newness of life.  But we preach the gospel of Jesus Christ: his death, resurrection and ascension.  Through one man, Jesus Christ, the free gift of grace has come.  This grace trumps the condemnation of Satan.  This grace abounds the more! 

Today, Christ will uphold you and preserve you as you abound in newness of life through Christ Jesus. 

WORTH STAYING UP FOR

IN THE BEGINNING...THE WORD
DAILY DEVOTIONAL FOR TODAY, NOVEMBER 9, 2012

WORTH STAYING UP FOR

I will not give sleep to mine eyes, or slumber to mine eyelids,  Until I find out a place for the LORD, an habitation for the mighty God of Jacob.
Psalm 132:4,5

Do you know of anything worth staying up for?  I remember my mom staying up through the night to do work for her family.  Sometimes it would be helping us pack for an important trip or gathering materials for our next day of school.  She seemed to have the grace to stay up.  I find that I have so many things to accomplish these days that I, too, am staying up through the night.  I am often praying, or busy doing laundry or preparing the house for the next day.  Hopefully, in the coming days, I will have times through the night when I can do more writing. Most of all, there is a deep desire in my heart to glorify God.  I want to  show my children, and this generation, just how good, mighty, wondrous, and powerful our God truly is...bearing witness to his love and glory and eternal purpose in Christ Jesus. 

 In the Psalms, we see that  David had a profound desire to magnify the Lord, so much so that he determined  to give no sleep to his eyes or slumber to his eyelids.  We should not think that we can go very long without sleep, but when God touches your heart to be about your Father's business, don't give into sloth, comfort, or ease.  Rest in Christ Jesus, always, but "woe to those who are at ease in Zion" ( Amos 6:1). Remember, David's desire to find an habitation for the mighty God of Jacob is accomplished in us:  For we are the temple of God, the body of Christ, the true Israel, the Church. 

Today, may the deep peace of Christ be yours!

THE PLUMMET IN THE HAND OF CHRIST JESUS

IN THE BEGINNING...THE WORD
DAILY DEVOTIONAL FOR TODAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2012

THE PLUMMET IN THE HAND OF CHRIST JESUS

 
The hands of Zerubbabel have laid the foundation of this house; his hands shall also finish it; and thou shalt know that the LORD of hosts hath sent me unto you.
For who hath despised the day of small things? for they shall rejoice, and shall see the plummet in the hand of Zerubbabel with those seven; they are the eyes of the LORD, which run to and fro through the whole earth. Zechariah 4:9,10

Has God laid the foundation of your life?  He will finsh it.  For Christ, the masterbuilder, has the perfect design and purpose for you...he also has a plummet in his hand.  A plummet is used by builders to make sure the building is being constructed in an upright manner.  This is why we must be in Christ and Christ must be in us.  It is Christ who will bring God's will to fruition, and it is Christ who will ensure that our ways are the ways of God.  As we walk in Christ, and God's will is accomplished in us, we will say: "Grace, grace unto it" ( see Zechariah 4:7).  We will know that it was not by our might or power, but by the Spirit of our LORD.

Then he answered and spake unto me, saying, This is the word of the LORD unto Zerubbabel, saying, Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit saith the LORD of hosts.  Zechariah 4:6
Today, Christ in you, the hope of glory! 
   

THE PLUMBLINE AND THE RULER

IN THE BEGINNING…THE WORD

DAILY DEVOTIONAL FOR TODAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2012

THE PLUMBLINE AND THE RULER

Thus he shewed me: and, behold, the Lord stood upon a wall made by a plumbline, with a plumbline in his hand.   Amos 7:7

 Every work constructed for the glory of God must be in-line, upright, sturdy, stable and able to withstand the storms. We are a people who follow the rule of God; we are led by the Spirit of God who leads in the way of righteousness.  As long as we continue to walk in the way of the Lord, waiting at our post for His word and His command, we shall prosper and have good success.  Every ruler of God’s people must be measured and found solid, upright, able and ready to be established.

God’s purpose has always been to design an upright people, measured by the rule of righteousness.  In the New Testament the Law (of righteousness) has been written in our hearts. “For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, saith the Lord; I will put my laws into their mind, and write them in their hearts: and I will be to them a God, and they shall be to me a people: And they shall not teach every man his neighbour, and every man his brother, saying, Know the Lord: for all shall know me, from the least to the greatest. For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their iniquities will I remember no more. In that he saith, A new covenant, he hath made the first old. Now that which decayeth and waxeth old is ready to vanish away” (Hebrews 8:10-13). "For if that first covenant had been faultless, then should no place have been sought for the second" (Hebrews8:7).

Today, let us stand “upright” and see the salvation of God.

NAKED AND UNASHAMED

IN THE BEGINNING…THE WORD

DAILY DEVOTIONAL FOR TODAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2012

NAKED AND UNASHAMED
And they were both naked, the man and his wife, and were not ashamed. Genesis 2:25

God ordained holy matrimony for the man and his wife to come together in unity, as one.  Their hearts and bodies are perfectly joined in this pure relationship, no place for shame.  “Marriage is honorable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge” (Hebrews 13:4). “And the LORD God said, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him an help meet for him” (Genesis 2:18).  Marriage between a man and his wife is God’s perfect design; it mysteriously bears witness to Christ’s relationship with the church.  Christ is the head of the church, just as the man is the head of his wife.  Together they can be naked and unashamed because of the perfection, the completeness of this relationship.  And it is God who is the author of this union.  It is God who will be the finisher.

Today, let us thank God for holy matrimony.

RAINBOWS AND ESTABLISHED COVENANTS

IN THE BEGINNING...THE WORD
DAILY DEVOTIONAL FOR TODAY, NOVEMBER 1, 2012

RAINBOWS AND ESTABLISHED COVENANTS

And I will establish my covenant with you; neither shall all flesh be cut off any more by the waters of a flood; neither shall there any more be a flood to destroy the earth.
And God said, This is the token of the covenant which I make between me and you and every living creature that is with you, for perpetual generations:
I do set my bow in the cloud, and it shall be for a token of a covenant between me and the earth.
And it shall come to pass, when I bring a cloud over the earth, that the bow shall be seen in the cloud:
And I will remember my covenant, which is between me and you and every living creature of all flesh; and the waters shall no more become a flood to destroy all flesh.
And the bow shall be in the cloud; and I will look upon it, that I may remember the everlasting covenant between God and every living creature of all flesh that is upon the earth.
And God said unto Noah, This is the token of the covenant, which I have established between me and all flesh that is upon the earth. Genesis 9:11-9:17

God, you set your bow in the cloud for us, to remind us that you love us.  You make covenants with us, promises that you will keep.  We can trust you from age to age.  What is man that you are mindful of us?  Thank you for your everlasting covenants.  We can trust your promises...and we do.

Today, let us remember the rainbow!

A DEFENCED CITY

IN THE BEGINNING...THE WORD
DAILY DEVOTIONAL FOR TODAY, OCTOBER 29, 2012

A DEFENCED CITY

For, behold, I have made thee this day a defenced city, and an iron pillar, and brasen walls against the whole land, against the kings of Judah, against the princes thereof, against the priests thereof, and against the people of the land. Jeremiah 1:18

I am thanking God for making us a defeced city in the storms of life.  God's hand holds back the force of the enemy and allows us to survive and thrive right in the midst of the onslaught.  All around us are angels with a divine commission to protect us. What shall we then say to these things? If God
be for us, who can be against us? (Romans 8:31)

Today, let us thank God for divine protection.

THE PERFECTION OF BEAUTY IS IN JESUS

IN THE BEGINNING...THE WORD
DAILY DEVOTIONAL FOR TODAY, OCTOBER 28, 2012

THE PERFECTION OF BEAUTY IS IN JESUS

Out of Zion, the perfection of beauty, God hath shined. Psalm 50:2

God has always desired a people for his glory, praise, and renown.  God has desired Zion to place his beauty within.  If the people of God will only worship Him in Spirit and in Truth.  If the people of God will only cleave to Him; for He is our life.  God has perfect beauty for His people.  For the light of the knowledge of the glory of God is in the face of Jesus Christ (2 Corinthians 4:6)

Today, let the perfection of beauty shine in you!

DESTINATION JESUS

IN THE BEGINNING...THE WORD
DAILY DEVOTIONAL FOR TODAY, OCTOBER 25, 2012

DESTINATION JESUS
Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain.
 I Corinthians 9:24

What matters most?  In other words, what are you seeking after?  Many are seeking after wealth, privilege status, education, or sport notoriety;  these are fine and well, but the Scriptures tell us to seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness.  As a believer in Jesus Christ you will have to put your other pursuits on hold to discover the deep and real riches in God. 

Ask God to give you faith so that you will be able to journey with Him.  God often calls you to go...not knowing where you're going.  Each day you must submit to the leading of the LORD.  God will amaze you as you will see that his WORD is alive and in control.  As you walk by faith you will suffer and go through many trials.  This is all part of the course...your destination is Jesus. He is the Alpha and Omega, the beginning and end of our journey (see Revelations 22:13).

Today...destination Jesus!

DRINKING INTO ONE SPIRIT

IN THE BEGINNING...THE WORD
DAILY DEVOTIONAL FOR TODAY, OCTOBER 24, 2012

DRINKING INTO ONE SPIRIT

For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit. I Corinthians 12:13

The Church of Jesus Christ, the true Isarel of God has been made to drink of one Spirit--that is the Holy Spirit.  Our faith, our power, our joy, our future, our salvation is in the Holy Spirit.We all acknowledge that Jesus is the Messiah, the anointed one sent from God to save us.  We all acknowledge the Jesus gave of his flesh and shed of his blood to redeem us.  Jesus declared in the book of St John: He that eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, dwelleth in me, and I in him.  (John 6:56).  Our communion is based upon the eating of the flesh and drinking of the blood of Jesus.  We must partake.  We must  digest.  We must be tranformed into one body--the body of Christ. 

 Our Bibles provide needed nourishment for the body of Christ.  For the Holy Scriptures are the living Word of God.  As we commune in the Word, we are quickened, changed and transformed by the renewing of our minds.   The Spirit and nature of Christ indwells us as we feast on his Word, and we are built up a holy body.-- both  Jews and Gentiles. Baptism also brings us into oneness, as well as prayer and fellowship.

Today, we rejoice as we are drinking into one Spirit.

COME AWAY

IN THE BEGINNING...THE WORD
DAILY DEVOTIONAL FOR TODAY, OCTOBER 19, 2012

COME AWAY


My beloved spake, and said unto me, Rise up, my love, my fair one, and come away. Song of Solomon

God desires to separate us unto Himself.  He desires our affection, our time and attention.  We must separate ourselves unto Him with love, prayer and devotion.  We are His desire...and He is our desire, too.

Today, come away...!

PLANTED TOGETHER

IN THE BEGINNING...THE WORD
DAILY DEVOTIONAL FOR TODAY, OCTOBER 18, 2012

PLANTED TOGETHER


 For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection.  Romans 6:5

We have been planted together.  That means we were sown at the same time, in the same manner; and we shall grow up together in the likeness of Christ.  We have been planted in the likeness of his death.  For our planting has been that of persecution, ridicule, scorn, hatred, aversion, misunderstanding, confusion.  The true Israel of God has died to sin and law, to be raised together in newness of life. Yes, the body of flesh, sin and carnality had to be destroyed, so that God might be glorified through our resurrection, our newness of life.

Do you recall how God planted you in the likeness of Christ's death?  Did you go through a process of dying to sin...finally realizing that it had no power to save you?  Did God prove to you that it was He alone who would raise you up in newness of life by His Spirit?  Did you mourn, resist... and then rejoice?

How wonderful it is to be planted together.  To know that I am not alone.  To know that he is quickening another at the same time, in the same way--to bring forth a fruitful life.  To know that there is another who has suffered the same, who has been loved creatively by the Father through the process of death and burial and resurrection.

Yes, the body of Jesus Christ is one body.  Jew and Gentile planted together.  Male and Female planted together.  Rich and Poor planted together.

Together, Glory be to the Father and to the Son!

YOUR KING IS MEEK

IN THE BEGINNING...THE WORD
DAILY DEVOTIONAL FOR TODAY, OCTOBER 17, 2012

YOUR KING IS MEEK


Tell ye the daughter of Sion, Behold, thy King cometh unto thee, meek, and sitting upon an ass, and a colt the foal of an ass. Matthew 21:5

"Your King is coming unto you...he is meek and sitting upon an ass!"  Does this sound like exciting news?  Is this the news you would want to hear about your king?  This is the news that  proved to be a stumbling block for much of Israel, and this is the news that the church still seems to have a problem with today.  Our King is not like anything of this world.  He is not worldly, ambitious or aggressive. Jesus says: "Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls"  Matthew 11:29.

Our Savior is meek and lowly in heart.  That does not mean that we have to be poor, uneducated or untrained.  It does mean that we love the poor, the uneducated and the untrained.  It does mean that, like Christ, we think of others better than ourselves.  We see the beauty in a man or woman's soul--regardless of status.  As Christians, we can't prefer a man by his outer appearance; we must prefer the heart of a man.  Remember, God hides things from the "wise and prudent" but reveals them unto "babes"(Matthew 11:25).

The prideful and arrogant person constantly creates circumstances for himself where he is honored, served, esteemed.   Jesus says in the tenth chapter of Mark, "Ye know that they which are accounted to rule over the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and their great ones exercise authority upon them. But so shall it not be among you: but whosoever will be great among you, shall be your minister: And whosoever of you will be the chiefest, shall be servant of all. For even the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many" (Mark 10:42-45).

Wow, our King is meek and lowly...and he reigns!
Today, let this heart be in you which was also in Christ Jesus.

HIS GOOD PLEASURE

IN THE BEGINNING...THE WORD
DAILY DEVOTIONAL FOR TODAY, OCTOBER 15, 2012

 HIS GOOD PLEASURE

 Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.
  For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure. Philippians 2:12,13


Finding the good pleasure of God takes some seeking.  And then the working out of this salvation takes some real fear and trembling.  But the Holy Spirit is in us to accomplish the good pleasure of God.  He quickens us, inspires us, compels us, and comforts us as we trust him...trembling with each step of faith.  But every step we take, every action we make, every prayer we send up, every hour we wait is worth it because it is for our Father's good pleasure.

God has a will for our lives, a good pleasure. We can bring eternal joy to our heavenly father as we engage in this will.  Have you found the will God has for you?  When you do the Holy Spirit will leap within you, quickening you, pushing you forward "both to will and to do," both to desire and accomplish, both to seek and to perform.  True, sometimes all we can do is to "be still and pray," but our will is alive and energetic, loving, trusting, believing, hoping, anticipating and celebrating the good pleasure of God.

Today, we are celebrating the good pleasure of God!

DISPLAYING THE BANNER

IN THE BEGINNING...THE WORD
DAILY DEVOTIONAL FOR TODAY...OCTOBER 14, 2012

DISPLAYING THE BANNER


  Thou hast given a banner to them that fear thee, that it may be displayed because of the truth. Selah. Psalms 60:4

Today, God has a banner to be displayed.  It is the banner that says, "I am with you!"  It is a banner that says, "No weapon formed against you will prosper."  It is a banner that says, "The promises that I made to you are TRUE!"  This banner is a sign to all : God is working everything together for GOOD!

Today, God says, "Display the banner!"

LEANING UPON HER BELOVED

IN THE BEGINNING...THE WORD
DAILY DEVOTIONAL FOR TODAY, OCTOBER 11, 2012

LEANING UPON HER BELOVED

Who is this that cometh up from the wilderness, leaning upon her beloved? I raised thee up under the apple tree: there thy mother brought thee forth: there she brought thee forth that bare thee.
Solomon 8:5

When Jesus came into the earth "he came unto his own" (John 1:11).  The invitation for salvation had been given to the Jews.  But when they rejected their Messiah, the invitation was open to all...to "whosover believeth" (I John 5:1).  Still Jesus comes into his garden calling to "his sister, his bride," (Song of Solomon 5:1) desiring her.  Yes, the Jewish nation is coming from the wilderness of sin and law, leaning upon her beloved, trusting in Jesus for completeness and shalom.

Today, let us pray for this togetherness.

HOLINESS UNTO THE LORD

IN THE BEGINNING...THE WORD
DAILY DEVOTIONAL FOR TODAY, OCTOBER 4, 2012

HOLINESS UNTO THE LORD


 Israel was holiness unto the LORD, and the first-fruits of his increase: all that devour him shall offend; evil shall come upon them, saith the LORD. JEREMIAH 2:3

We are Holiness unto the Lord.  We are consecrated to the service of God,  As we go about our Father's business we shall be a peculiar people, known of God; the LORD will lift up his countenance upon us and give up peace.

As Abraham, the father of the Jewish nation, was called out of his native land, we, too, must go the distance away from the worldliness of our past.  God's goals and  purposes look nothing like the world's.  Our pursuit is wholly different from that which our fleshly nature desired to pursue.

 It is through prayer, devotion and supplication that we will follow GOD in His consecrated service.
Today, write it upon your breastplate:  HOLINESS UNTO THE LORD.

A MORNING WITHOUT CLOUDS

IN THE BEGINNING...THE WORDDAILY DEVOTIONAL FOR TODAY, OCTOBER 3, 2012 A MORNING WITHOUT CLOUDS 
The God of Israel said, the Rock of Israel spake to me, He that ruleth over men  must be just, ruling in the fear of God.
And he shall be as the light of the morning, when the sun riseth, even a morning without clouds; as the tender grass springing out of the earth by clear shining after rain.
2 Samuel 23:4,5

Today, may God bless you!

CLEAR AS THE SUN

IN THE BEGINNING...THE WORD
DAILY DEVOTIONAL FOR TODAY, OCTOBER 2, 2012

CLEAR AS THE SUN

Who is she that looketh forth as the morning, fair as the moon, clear as the sun, and terrible as an army with banners? Song of Solomon 6:10

Today, let us be clear, knowing that Jesus is with us.

A STRONG TOWER

IN THE BEGINNING…THE WORD

DAILY DEVOTIONAL FOR TODAY, OCTOBER 1, 2012
A STRONG TOWER

For thou hast been a shelter for me, and a strong tower from the enemy.  Psalm 61:3

Sometimes you don’t know exactly how the devil  is trying to destroy you--you can just feel the storm winds, you can sense the demonic attack; he is coming at you in so many subtle ways, trying to take your stability, your joy, your health, your peace.  But God continues to supply an abundance of wisdom, an abundance of strength, an abundance of knowledge, and an abundance of joy.  We are dwelling in the  strong tower of God-- safe and secure from yeevery attack of the wicked one.  Wow!  God amazes me.  He builds us up so well that the enemy’s huffs and puffs simply warrant a glance out the window.  Yes, the devil knows his time is short so we can expect a flurry of activity.  But we, the church of God, are busy getting ready for a wedding of heavenly proportions.  Let the devil rage…our strong tower is stronger than ever before.  We are being preserved as we prepare for our big day!

Today, the bride is making herself ready, safe in the strong tower of God!

THE FORM OF A SERVANT

IN THE BEGINNING...THE WORD
DAILY DEVOTIONAL FOR TODAY, SEPTEMBER 29, 2012

THE FORM OF A SERVANT


  Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:
  Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God:
  But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men:
  And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. Philippians 2: 5-8

Are you ready to serve God, or do you still want God to serve you?  Let us think of God's needs and let us desire His desires.  Let us listen for His call and work in His service.  Let us not be so consumed with ourselves.  In fact, let us be emptied of ourselves and put on Christ whose form is a servant.  For Christ has  showed us humility, even the death of the cross.  

Today, let us be transformed.

PRAYING FOR YOU

IN THE BEGINNING...THE WORD
DAILY DEVOTIONAL FOR TODAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2012

PRAYING FOR YOU


Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ:
 According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love:
  Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will,
  To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved.
  In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace;
  Wherein he hath abounded toward us in all wisdom and prudence;
  Having made known unto us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure which he hath purposed in himself:
  That in the dispensation of the fullness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; even in him:
  In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will:
  That we should be to the praise of his glory, who first trusted in Christ.
  In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise,
  Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory.
  Wherefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus, and love unto all the saints,
  Cease not to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers;
  That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him:
  The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints,
  And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power,
 Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places,
  Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come:
  And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church,
  Which is his body, the fullness of him that filleth all in all.  Ephesians 1:3-23

Today, let us cease not to give thanks, and let us pray for one another.

OUR HEART IS ENLARGED

IN THE BEGINNING…THE WORD
DAILY DEVOTIONAL FOR TODAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2012

 OUR HEART IS ENLARGED

O ye Corinthians, our mouth is open unto you, our heart is enlarged. 2 Corinthians 6:11

Just as the Apostles of Jesus Christ cared deeply for the churches under their care, we must care deeply for one another.  We must want the very best for one another.  We must pray for each other’s well-being, as we hope for good to come.  We must actively serve one another, committing ourselves to a lifetime of love. 

Our mouth must stay open to one another to share freely our thoughts, our fears, our loves, our dreams, our plans and our pains.  Our heart must be enlarged to hold more, and more, and more of one another.   

Today, let us  enlarge our hearts as we love one another.

SEPARATED

IN THE BEGINNING...THE WORD

DAILY DEVOTIONAL FOR TODAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2012

SEPARATED

  And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? 

  And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. 

 Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, 

 And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty. 

2Corinthians 6:15-18

What is your relationship with Belial?  The wicked man of unbelief, lawlessness and uncleanness desires to walk in agreement with you.  Perhaps you have a classmate who is befriending you and bringing you down with dirty language, or dirty jokes, or introducing you to dirty internet activity.  Or maybe you have an inappropriate co-worker whose pulling you into that private office and closing the door to discuss "business."  Or is it the ungodly television and music that you have settled into and allowed  to take control.  

God is calling us out of every unclean thing.  He is calling us to be separated from Belial.  He is calling us to Christ Jesus and to the peace Christ brings.

Today, let us be through with Belial!

THE SERVANT

IN THE BEGINNING...THE WORD
DAILY DEVOTIONAL FOR TODAY...SEPTEMBER 21, 2012

THE SERVANT

Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city.  Revelations 22:14

God is looking for servants--men and women who will die to self to serve Him.  So why would anyone be offended by serving?  We live in a culture where we are offended by taking orders.  Leadership is promoted instead of submission.  The last day spirit refuses to bow the knee...in prayer to God or in honor of Jesus Christ. 

Christianity is not about finding your best life now.  Christinity is about losing your life to take up the cross, to take up the work of the Father.  Jesus is our best example of a servant.  He came to earth to do His Father's command.  When Jesus became clear of the pain and the suffering that was set for him he went through the passion. 

Yes, we must desire to serve God.  We must walk closely with him so that we can quickly engage in his commands.  Let us not walk according to our own rule, but let us walk according to the rule of God.

Today, let us love serving God and let us love doing his commandments. 

LISTEN TO ME, AND UNDERSTAND

IN THE BEGINNING...THE WORD
DAILY DEVOTIONAL FOR TODAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2012

LISTEN TO ME, AND UNDERSTAND


And when he had called all the people unto him, he said unto them, Hearken unto me every one of you, and understand:
There is nothing from without a man, that entering into him can defile him: but the things which come out of him, those are they that defile the man.
If any man have ears to hear, let him hear.
And when he was entered into the house from the people, his disciples asked him concerning the parable.  And he saith unto them, Are ye so without understanding also? Do ye not perceive, that whatsoever thing from without entereth into the man, it cannot defile him;
 Because it entereth not into his heart, but into the belly, and goeth out into the draught, purging all meats?
 And he said, That which cometh out of the man, that defileth the man.
 For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders,
 Thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness:
 All these evil things come from within, and defile the man. Mark 7:14-23

God does not want his children defiled.  We must be so careful with our words and our thoughts.  Our prayer must always be: Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O LORD, my strength and my redeemer. Psalm 14:19

Today, let us listen to the word of God...and watch our words!

ARISE

IN THE BEGINNING...THE WORD
DAILY DEVOTIONAL FOR TODAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2012

ARISE

Arise and thresh, O daughter of Zion:  for I will make thine horn iron,  and I will make thine hoofs brass; and thou shalt beat in pieces many people:  and I will consecrate their gain unto the Lord, and their substance unto the Lord of the whole earth. Micah 4:13

Today, let us trust in the God of Israel.

HE LOVES HER

IN THE BEGINNING...THE WORD
DAILY DEVOTIONAL FOR TODAY, SEPTEMBER 13, 2012

HE LOVES HER:  ISRAEL


 For thus saith the LORD of hosts; After the glory hath he sent me unto the nations which spoiled you: for he that toucheth you toucheth the apple of his eye.
  For, behold, I will shake mine hand upon them, and they shall be a spoil to their servants: and ye shall know that the LORD of hosts hath sent me.
  Sing and rejoice, O daughter of Zion: for, lo, I come, and I will dwell in the midst of thee, saith the LORD.
  And many nations shall be joined to the LORD in that day, and shall be my people: and I will dwell in the midst of thee, and thou shalt know that the LORD of hosts hath sent me unto thee.
  And the LORD shall inherit Judah his portion in the holy land, and shall choose Jerusalem again.
  Be silent, O all flesh, before the LORD: for he is raised up out of his holy habitation. Zechariah 2:8-13


And so all Israel shall be saved: as it is written, There shall come out of Sion the Deliverer, and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob:
For this is my covenant unto them, when I shall take away their sins.
As concerning the gospel, they are enemies for your sakes: but as touching the election, they are beloved for the fathers' sakes.  Romans 11:26-28

Today, let us love Israel!

ARE YOU JUST ACTING?

IN THE BEGINNING...THE WORD
DAILY DEVOTIONAL FOR TODAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2012

ARE YOU JUST ACTING?

Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life. Proverbs 4:23

  Many parents encourage their children to "act right."  While growing up we often attempt to assume the proper attitude and proper mode of behavior.  As we move into adulthood, unless we are spiritually instructed, we continue this "act."  As children of God we are not acting at all; we are genuinely engaged in the fullness of life.  A carnal person may act kindly.  He may feverishly perform several actions that are extraordinary and even time consuming.  Though these actions may look to be out of a heart of goodness and love, they may actually be motivated for self.  Someone may do good works to be seen, or to compete against another, or to build a good reputation for personal advancement.  If our motivation is self, the act is never an act of love, or kindness, or goodness.

We must genuinely love others and seek to serve their needs by being motivated for their good.  Naturally, this will always involve sacrifice as we are  putting our needs in subjection for the good of the other.  We do this out of genuine love that comes from our Father's heart in the matter. Indeed, we must keep our hearts connected to God's heart so that we can serve Him in the earth.  How do we keep our hearts connected to the heart of God?  First, we must pray to see the needs of those around us and pray for the resources to meet those needs.  This may be your husband, your wife, your sister or brother, your friend, your child, your neighbor, your enemy.  Furthermore, we must confess our sins to the Father, who is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.  Moreover, we must love out of a new heart, made in the likeness of Christ Jesus. 

Today, let us be real.  

RENEWED STRENGTH

IN THE BEGINNING...THE WORD
DAILY DEVOTIONAL FOR TODAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2012

RENEWED STRENGTH


Hast thou not known? hast thou not heard, that the everlasting God, the LORD, the Creator of the ends of the earth, fainteth not, neither is weary? there is no searching of his understanding.
He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth strength.
Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the young men shall utterly fall:
But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint. Isaiah 40:28-31

Praise God for the power that is in Christ Jesus, our Lord.  As we trust in Christ for healing, restoration, and renewal, Christ is faithful to heal, restore, and renew us.  At times we will suffer so that Christ can teach us, shape us, comfort us, or just have time to show us something new.

I hope you are not suffering today, but if you are...just wait.

Today, let us praise our faithful, strength renewing LORD!

STRAIGHTWAY

IN THE BEGINNING...THE WORD
DAILY DEVOTIONAL FOR TODAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2012

STRAIGHTWAY

And straightway they forsook their nets, and followed him. Mark 1:18

God gives us the secret to doing anything and everything for him in the word straightway.  As we go about God's business we must go directly, go immediately, do it without delay, do it next, orderly, now.

Today, let us stay on course--straightway!

SPEAKING OF HIS GREATNESS

IN THE BEGINNING...THE WORD
DAILY DEVOTIONAL FOR TODAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2012

SPEAKING OF HIS GREATNESS
I will extol thee, my God, O king; and I will bless thy name for ever and ever. Every day will I bless thee; and I will praise thy name for ever and ever.  Great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised; and his greatness is unsearchable. One generation shall praise thy works to another, and shall declare thy mighty acts. I will speak of the glorious honour of thy majesty, and of thy wondrous works. Psalm 145 1-5.

God is so wonderful!  He is merciful, kind, and forgiving. God continually fills our hearts with love and prevents evil. Yes, God is great!

Today, and every day, let us speak of the greatness of our God.

HIGHER GROUND: ONLY GOD CAN DO THIS

IN THE BEGINNING...THE WORD
DAILY DEVOTIONAL FOR TODAY, AUGUST 31, 2012

HIGHER GROUND: ONLY GOD CAN DO THIS

And she brought forth a man child, who was to rule all nations with a rod of iron: and her child was caught up unto God, and to his throne. Revelation 12:5

In Revelations, Chapter 12, we see a seven- headed dragon standing before the woman, waiting to devour her child.  But it is just like God to make a way of escape.  For the saints of God and for our sons and daughters, God's provision is higher ground.  He catches us up unto Himself and to His throne.  We (and our children) are safe from Satan's devouring power.  Remember, God has already chosen our children to reign in His Kingdom:


"Instead of thy fathers shall be thy children, whom thou mayest make princes in all the earth." Psalm 45:16

  "Now therefore fear the LORD, and serve him in sincerity and in truth: and put away the gods which your fathers served on the other side of the flood, and in Egypt; and serve ye the LORD. 

  And if it seem evil unto you to serve the LORD, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD" (Joshua 24:14,15) 

Today, as for me and my children (all five!), we will serve the LORD!

GUARD YOUR SONS

IN THE BEGINNING...THE WORD
DAILY DEVOTIONAL FOR TODAY, AUGUST 30, 2012

GUARD YOUR SONS

And there appeared a great wonder in heaven; a woman clothed with the sun, and the moon under her feet, and upon her head a crown of twelve stars:
And she being with child cried, travailing in birth, and pained to be delivered.
And there appeared another wonder in heaven; and behold a great red dragon, having seven heads and ten horns, and seven crowns upon his heads.
And his tail drew the third part of the stars of heaven, and did cast them to the earth: and the dragon stood before the woman which was ready to be delivered, for to devour her child as soon as it was born. Revelation 12:1-4

Satan wants to devour our seed.  Yes, our sons and daughters, and all the seeds of faith that God has placed in our hearts.  Satan wants to trample our plans and screw up our visions.  This is his purpose.  Guard your sons.  Guard your daughters.  Fill them with the Word of God so that when they are all grown up and on their own they will not depart from the Way the Truth and the Life.   In John 14:6,  Jesus says: "I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me."

Satan is subtle and he devours in many ways.  Look at the soil of your life.  Who is coming in to bring a worldly, carnal influence?  Who is boasting in Mammon and his power, distracting your children (and you!) from dependence on the power of the cross?  Who is determined to draw your children away from you,  to establish them in the ways of the world?  (Please read Matthew 13:3-9)

Believe me, the dragon with seven heads and ten horns spoken of in Revelations 12 is still standing before the mother to devour her child.

Today, guard your sons!

STREAMS OF LOVE

IN THE BEGINNING...THE WORD
DAILY DEVOTIONAL FOR TODAY, AUGUST 28,2012

STREAMS OF LOVE

 But there the glorious LORD will be unto us a place of broad rivers and streams; wherein shall go no galley with oars, neither shall gallant ship pass thereby. Isaiah 33:21

In the Church of God the LORD is a place of broad rivers and streams.  Just when Satan wants to trap us, the Lord shows us streams of love, flowing with living water.  Perhaps the LORD is leading you to an act of service--helping children, the sick, the elderly, the poor or homeless.  By serving in this ministry you will feel the power of love that is  Christ Jesus.  Or perhaps the LORD is calling you to creativity.  Is there a song, a movie, a book, a meal God is directing you to create.  As you serve in this creative ministry you will know the love that is Christ Jesus. Is there a friend who needs your help?  Is there a child who needs your unconditional love and mercy?  Is there a mate who needs your forgiveness?  Flow in the provision that our glorious Lord has provided.  Flow in His streams of love.

Today, let God make a way for you.