All of us have blessed with various measures of success; some with much, others with some. A recent message talked about giving from the heart. If we see someone in need, we should respond in Christian love according to our ability. Sometimes, it might be a financial gift, other times an encouraging word or sentiment. Luke 6:38 says, “Give, and it shall be given unto you; pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that you mete withal it shall be measured to you again.” As a member of the family of God, if we see a need, we should try to fill it, not for an expectation of being paid back, but for the sheer joy of doing something in Jesus’ name. He is our reward. God bless you!
Owner’s Manuals
All of us have had to put something together, whether it’s a bicycle or a doll house. We try to follow the directions, but sometimes they are just too small to read or are written in broken English. In truth, our lives are full of instructions: owner’s manuals for our cars, appliances, tools, etc. Thankfully, there is only one manual that we truly need. 2 Timothy 3:16 says, “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness.” Have you read His word today? It will give you all the instructions you need. God bless you!
Exceptions to Every Rule?
We have all heard the expression, “There are exceptions to every rule,” but are there? Let’s talk about forgiveness. The families of crime victims have been heard to say that they don’t feel that they can ever forgive; I guess that might be a human reaction. We, however, have examples to teach us otherwise. Ephesians 4:32 says, “And be ye kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.” I recently read a quote by William Arthur Ward which says, “We are most like God when we forgive.” Jesus forgave us without exception. Let’s try to follow his example, amen? God bless you!
Remember the Sabbath Day – Gather Together
I’m not sure what is happening in churches today. It is discouraging to see attendance getting smaller and people thinking that they have more important things to do. It doesn’t matter if it’s football, fishing, golfing, or gardening; the Bible is so clear about this. In the Old Testament, Exodus 20:8 says, “Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy.” and in the New Testament, Hebrews 10:25 says, “Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.” Let’s all make an extra effort to not only attend, but to encourage others to attend as well. The time IS getting closer! Amen?
I Want It Now!
Do you remember when you were a small child in the store with your mother? I can hear it in my head, “I want this, I want that, I want it mommy!” I suppose as adults, we can be the same way, maybe wanting bigger homes, cars, or a more important job. Fortunately, God sees a bigger picture for our lives, and he knows what’s best for us. James 4:2a says, “Ye have not because ye ask not.” He wants us to ask Him for things, and he will always give what we ask, as long as it’s for the right reasons. God bless you!
Who are you waiting for?
Have you ever been at an airport and struck up a conversation with someone? Often, the question is asked, “Who are you waiting for?” We might respond with, “I’m waiting for a friend or loved one.” We stare out the gate exit windows seeking their arrival. Lamentations 3:25-26 talks about waiting. It says, “The Lord is good unto them that wait for him, to the soul that seeketh him. It is good that a man should both hope and quietly wait for the salvation of the Lord.” Today, while we wait for his coming, let’s be patient and prayerfully wait. God bless you!
Stress Relief
So many of us live busy, hectic lives. Work piles up, or you are doing the work of others and yours as well. Our responsibilities seem endless, and we just don’t seem to catch up, and then stress piles up on top of that. It’s a recipe for a health disaster! But…. we have the cure for that – God’s word. Scripture is full of tools for resolving these issues. Psalm 3:8 reassures us in hard times: “I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep, for thou, Lord, only makest me dwell in safety.” Isn’t it good to know that in the chaos of our busy days, God is there for us? God bless you, and may you find peace and rest today.
Who Do You Trust?
Trust can sometimes be a difficult thing for people. We may have trusted that a business deal was going through or trusting in a job offer that did happen. Many have had a trusted friend let them down. Joyfully, we all have someone we can always trust to not disappoint us. Isaiah 26:3 assures us: “Thou will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.” Today, let’s tell Him how thankful we are that he will never leave us or forsake us. God bless you!
Who Do You Count On?
Most people want to be self-sufficient; and even though we might be willing and happy to help others, sometimes we are the ones who need a hero, and we have one! Even though we don’t see him, we have the Holy Spirit! Romans 8:26a says, “Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities..” The Spirit comes to our rescue when we need help. He guides, strengthens us, and sustains us. Let’s all give thanks and praise God for giving us a hero. God bless you!
The Joy of the Lord
Have you ever witnessed the joy in the face of a smiling baby? Or an expression of excitement when a child receives a new bike? Or how about the comfort and reassurance when someone rises from the waters of the baptismal pool? Somehow, joy and comfort are etched into their complexion. 2 Corinthians 4:6 says, “For God, who commanded the light to shine out of the darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.” I pray that the light of Jesus allows others to see your expression of the joy you feel by knowing Him. God bless you!
