God's Gracious Gems

Beyond What We Can Do!!

2011-02-08T17:25:00.001-08:00

Luke 1:37 says, "For nothing is impossible with God." NASB

What does that mean? When exploring this truth with one's own personal reality, this promise implies many different things. For the one who experiences healing, it reveals itself in freedom from such things as: disease, bitterness, or addictions.

It's realizing the existence of One capable of making something happen that in not possible by human strength. Absolutely nothing is beyond the scope of the One who made everything from nothing with just a word.

No matter what we might be struggling through today, may we look beyond our circumstances to the One who holds them in His hands with unfailing love for us.

Sweet Rest....AHHH!

2011-02-02T08:35:00.000-08:00

In a moment an incident, phone call, or anything unexpected can topple life into a spin of chaos, pain, and confusion. When grasping for anything to give stability, a person quickly realizes control cannot be mustered up on their own.

Jesus knew that in those moments each one of us would need to recognize our need for His intervention. Matthew 11:28-30 reminds us to "Come to Me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from Me, because I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light." NIV

We were never intended to carry the weight of our world and those we love upon our shoulders. In fact, when we do, we're told that it causes us to feel weary and burdened. However, when we release our cares to the Lord and carry His, we're promised that His load is easy and light. We find rest when we take on His load and give ours to Him.

Pray along with me as we give up what the Lord never intended us to carry:

Father, thank You for the reminder that Your desire is for us to carry the easy and light load while You carry those things for us that cause us to feel weary and burdened. I release my load (of__________) to You!! Amen.

For Our Comfort

2011-01-31T06:27:00.000-08:00

*Way over due, but needing to write and post again!!

Psalm 23:4, "Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I fear no danger for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff--they comfort me." NIV

In the past the words that stuck out to me in this verse were "rod and staff", but only as only a means of discipline. As I walk in one of my darkest valleys right now in my life, for the first time I saw what the Psalmist was truly saying here. He found comfort in the rod and the staff.

It's the use of the rod and the staff that the shepherd can protect and guide his flock to safety. His purpose is for his sheep to be kept from evil and the harm that it could have on them. The shepherd lifts the sheep from danger and the fear that comes in those places. He never leaves them.

Father, thank You that You are the Great and Good Shepherd. You're always wishing to guide us to safety, and You never leave us. I find my comfort in that truth today. Amen.

His Wounds...Our Healing!!!

2010-02-06T15:21:00.000-08:00

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 53:5 (KJV)

Our Heavenly Father sent His only Son to not only receive bruises as we might think so little about. Jesus Christ was tortured to provide salvation for us, who deserved to be tortured for our sin against our holy Father.

We often complain about the complain about the little inconveniences of life. Imagine what it meant for the Heavenly Father to do nothing while His Only Son received brutal treatment for something He didn't do.

May we realize these wounds, bruises, stripes, and chastisment enabled peace for us with the Lord. Our healing came at a great price!

Focus!!

2010-01-15T08:28:00.000-08:00

Psalm 64:10 says, "The righteous man will be glad in the Lord, and will take refuge in Him; and all the upright in heart will glory." NASB

Three things stand out in this verse that give us direction to our focus.

1) Be glad in the Lord

2) Take refuge in Him

3) Glory in the Lord

As we begin each day, let's start it off with praise to the One who made us and is faithful to us!

May we rest in knowing, we do have a place in which to take safety when we are insecure and circumstances are confusing.

May we recognize the wonderful ways in which the Lord makes Himself known to us daily and thank Him.

A Change in Us

2009-12-26T09:27:00.000-08:00

My calendar saying for today with an anonymous author says, "Real love changes people."

Instantly the verse Romans 5:8 came to my mind. "God demonstrates His love toward us in that while we are yet sinners Christ died for us."

He didn't wait to prove His love when we changed into a better person. While we conducted our lives in selfish, self-centered ways, He died for us. When we allow ourselves to experience His love, indeed it changes us.

Praise the Lord for all the things He has done in your life since you put your faith and trust in Him as your Savior!

Why Christmas?

2009-12-23T10:07:00.000-08:00

I read this statement on my calendar for today's date. The author is anonymous, but it really struck a cord for me.

"If you were God, would you sleep on straw, nurse from a breast, and be clothed in a diaper? I wouldn't, but Christ did."

As we celebrate Christmas again, this reminds us that God took on flesh, became a child, and to provide salvation for us. Matthew says that His name would be "Emmanuel, God with us". He desired a relationship with us and not only lived among us, but became like us.

Oh Father, may we always remember the sacrifice You made for us by sending Your Son to dwell among us, die for us, and allow us access into Your presence again. Thank You!

Presence!!

2009-12-10T10:17:00.000-08:00

No author name appeared on my calendar this year with this statement, but it read, "Show up. Nothing takes the place of your presence. Letters are nice. Phone calls are special, but being there in the flesh sends a message."

As we are celebrating the Christmas season, it dawned on me those words describe what the Lord did for us. We remember His birth and the name given to Him, "Emmanuel, God with us." (Matthew 1:23)

Presence...may we seek to love those around us with the love us Jesus by being present with them not only during the Christmas season, but all year long!!

copyrighted by BLS

Three Instructions

2009-11-27T14:54:00.000-08:00

Philippians 1:27
Only conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you or remain absent, I will hear of you that you are standing firm in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel. NASB

The Lord's desire for each one of us is that we might be found: 1) conducting ourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel, 2) unified in standing firm in our faith and 3) unified in striving for the faith of the gospel.

What does this look like in our day-to-day living? It means to obey the Words we've been given in the Bible....we are loving the Lord with all our heart, soul, strength, and mind. We love others the ways in which we love ourselves.

It means to know the truths of the Word and to let them dictate the way in which we think, speak, and do our relationships with others.

It means we are doing all we can to promote unity with others. We do our part to be in good relationships with others. We live in such away that the unsaved draw near to the Savior and not away.

How do things look today?

copyrighted by BLS

For Others Benefits

2009-11-19T06:02:00.000-08:00

"Father, I thank You that You have heard Me, I knew that You always hear Me, but I said this for the benefit of the peope standing here, that they may believe that You sent Me." John 11:41-42, NIV

When Jesus did or said anything, He considered the impact it would have on the lives of those around Him. He confidently understood His relationship with His Father, but He thought of what those around Him needed. He knew they needed to see Him thanking His Father for what He was about to do in their lives.

O Lord Jesus, may we too find our confidence in all You've provided for us and to live for the need of others. Amen.

Reconcile

2009-11-16T17:24:00.000-08:00

And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven. - Colossians 1:20 (KJV)

Alienation never has been the heart of the Lord, but fellowshipping with us His creation definitely was His plan. Knowing we'd sin, He provided a plan for reconciliation, and for it to take place, we must do our part to seek it. It takes two to tangle the road of peace and reconciliation. What are we doing to live in light of that truth today?

copyrighted by BLS

To The Lord

2009-11-09T11:47:00.000-08:00

And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; - Colossians 3:23 (KJV)

Focus. Anything we try to do, will not please everyone. We must love and serve the Lord with all our heart and know that our labor doesn't go unnoticed by the Lord. He sees our heart and desire to please Him. Let's look to Him and not those around us.

copyrighted by BLS

One in the Same

2009-11-02T12:39:00.000-08:00

Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ. - Galatians 6:2 (KJV)

Two simple principles have been given to us in this short verse.

1) The Lord doesn't want us to face this life alone. He instructs us to take on the struggles of one another. We're not created to face this life void of the help of others.

2) We often wonder what the Lord wants for us. What does He desire? His desire is that we fulfill the law of Christ. The law of Christ is simple...bear one another's burdens.

How do we do that? We must trust the Lord and have a willing spirit to jump in when we needed by those around us.

How are we doing on that today?

copyrighted by BLS

Others Before Self!!

2009-10-28T15:08:00.000-07:00

Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. - Philippians 2:3 (KJV)

An attitude of our Savior...always for the best of others. With a humble heart and attitude, He endured the cross for our sins to provide salvation for all those who in faith would call upon His name. He had our best in mind.

How are we displaying Christ living in us? Do others see Him living in us by the way that we treat them better than ourselves. The world says it's all about us, but the Lord has a different story. He knows a life surrendered to Him and lived for others is much more fulfilling than one lived for our own satisfaction.

Father, enable us live for you and others so that we can truly experience the joy your have to offer us in this life. Amen.

Eat Well

2009-10-13T04:30:00.000-07:00

What do we feed on? What makes us feel fully nourished and ready to face anything the day has to offer us?

Jesus said, "My food is to do the will of Him who sent Me and to finish His work." John 4:34; NIV

If we seek after the things this world offers us, we'll never truly be fed or satisfied. The Lord created us with a purpose. He shows it to us when we seek Him. Whatever work He individually called us to do, He desires that we finish His work. May we choose to feast off what the Lord offers us instead of the world.

copyrighted by BLS

Cross Over...

2009-10-10T19:58:00.000-07:00

The words sound simple. A choice sits before each one.

"I tell you the truth, whoever hears My word and believes Him who sent Me has eternal life and will not be condemned; he has crossed over from death to life." John 5:24; NIV

Jesus makes bold statements here. The first reflects the validity of what He said--truth. The second requires a response to hear and believe. The results ring loud and clear. When one hears and believes he receives eternal life and crosses from death to life.

The second response clangs with sadness. When one doesn't hear or believe, he receives condemnation. Eternal life is withheld and he remains in death.

May each one who reads this today, choose to hear and believe, if they haven't already. What did you choose today? I'd like to know.

Father, use these words to bring one reader to a new relationship with You. Amen.

Give it Up!!

2009-10-05T04:46:00.000-07:00

Does life seem overwhelming? Do you feel like nothing is done? Do you want to crawl in bed and sleep the day away?

Jesus said, "For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light." - Matthew 11:30 (KJV)

Maybe we're not sensing the ease in our lives because we're trying to carry everything by ourselves. The Lord doesn't want us to carry it. He wants us to give it to Him to carry for us.

Whatever is dragging you down today...give it to Jesus. He can be trusted with it.

Him In Us

2009-09-30T04:50:00.000-07:00

"My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations" - James 1:2 (KJV)

Well that isn't easy to do, is it? In fact, I would say that without the Spirit of the Lord living in us and enabling us to do it, we can't. The Lord has things for us to learn when He allows temptations to come our way, and one is to lean on Him in it.

If most of you are like me, we like life to be free of any kind of trouble. However, it's in these hard times that the Lord can truly be seen in our lives if we release our full trust into His hands.

How are we doing on that today?

Pleasing...

2009-09-28T07:19:00.000-07:00

We're by nature people pleasers. We want to know that what we did those around us approved of it, and yet is that desire just as strong with the Lord? Can we please the Lord? If so, what please Him?

According to Hebrews 11:6, KJV, "But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him."

Not only can we please the Lord, but He rewards those who diligently seek Him. Let's all make that our top priority today!

copyrighted by BLS

Our Focus

2009-09-11T09:26:00.000-07:00

Who starts and finishes our faith? According to Hebrews 12:2, the answer lies in who we set our sights on.

Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. (KJV)

We're told three distinct things about Jesus:

1) He endured the cross with joy

2) He endured the cross, despising the shame

3) He is seated at the God's right hand on a throne now

So what are we focusing on today? No matter what we're enduring today, let's look to Jesus and His example to us.

copyrighted by BLS

Give It Up!!

2009-09-07T09:01:00.000-07:00

What are we willing to give up for the Lord? Has He ever asked more than we're willing to give?What's the benefit of giving up all for Him?

Luke 18:29-30 says, "No on who has left home or wife or brothers or parents for children for the sake of the kingdom of God will fail to receive many times as much in this age and, in the age to come, eternal life." NIV

It's interesting that Jesus addresses the most sensitive topic of all in surrender...relationships. The bottom line, there is nothing worth holding onto above Jesus' kingdom.

Is He asking us to give up something today? If so, it's worth it. Let's obey!

copyrighted by BLS

Where is the Focus?

2009-09-02T04:15:00.000-07:00

It's easy to get caught up in those things that the world strives to attract to us and get our eyes off the ultimate prize, a relationship with Jesus. How sad when the riches of this world keep us from experience what really brings peace and joy.

Luke 18:24-25 says, "How hardly shall they that have riches enter into the kingdom of God! For it is easier for a camel to go through a needle's eye, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God." KJV

Father, help us to not have so much that this world has to offer that we lose sight of what matters most in this life. Help us to focus on our walk with You and the life that follows this one which will be much richer than anything we could gain on this side of eternity.

copyrighted by BLS

Children....

2009-09-01T04:48:00.000-07:00

How do we view little children? An annoyance? Better seen but not heard?

In Luke 18:16-17, we see Jesus' perspective on them. Jesus called the children to him and said, "Let the little children come to Me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it." NIV

First of all, we see that Jesus called to the children. He wanted them near Him. He then warns those listening that the truth is so simple to them, and we aren't to do anything to hinder it for them. In fact, Jesus points out, their faith is an example to us. A child is willing to receive the kingdom of God. They don't complicate it with reasoning and logic, they accept. We need to follow in suit.

copyrighted by BLS

What Does the Lord See?

2009-08-31T06:31:00.000-07:00

What does the Lord look for in what we do? What is He most concerned about? Is it that we got it right or the way in which we attempted to do it?

Luke 18:13-14 says, "The tax collector stood at a distance. He would not even look up to heaven, but beat his breast and said, "God, have mercy on me a sinner." I tell you that this man, rather than the other, went home justified before God. For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted." NIV

We're reminded here that the Lord is more concerned about what is going on in our heart. We can have the actions down. We can appear to be doing the right thing, but not be justified before the Lord.

The answer is simple, but the doing isn't. We live in world where we're told to look out for ourselves. The Lord is looking for humility...do we have it?

Father, create within us humility. Amen.

Priorities??!!

2009-08-28T08:12:00.000-07:00

How has your day and week been? If your a mom, you're getting your children off to school or prepared soon for when they do go. If you are like most, your life is filled with the hustles and bustles of one priority after another.

As I'm packing up all of my belongings to move into a new home in two short weeks, the Lord reminded me of this verse:

I beseech you therefore, brethren,by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. - Romans 12:1 (KJV)

In all we need to accomplish today, let's not forget what is to be our "reasonable service" everyday!

copyrighted by BLS

Want to Know

2009-08-23T16:44:00.001-07:00

It's nice to know what is happening, but especially what's going to happen next. We ask the questions, looking for the answers.

Luke 17:20-21 says, Once, having been asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God would come, Jesus replied, "The kingdom of God does not come with your careful observations, nor will people say, 'Here it is.' or 'There it is,' because the kingdom of God is within you." NIV

The Pharisees missed the truth. The kingdom of God is not a place one can go to see. It isn't seen by the naked eye. It's observed with spiritual eyes, Jesus explains, because it's the Spirit living in us and through us.

Let's pray that when people want to see the kingdom of God they see it in us. May we be that city on the hill for all to see.

copyrighted by BLS

How Much Faith?

2009-08-22T11:25:00.000-07:00

How encouraging to know that the Lord isn't alway asking us to take giant leaps of faith! He knows where we are and understands what we can handle. He says even small faith can accomplish much.

Luke 17:6 says, "If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye might say unto this sycamore tree, be thou plucked up by the root, and be thou planted in the sea; and it should obey you." KJV

Big or small in our eyes, let's take the leap and then watch what the Lord will do!!

copyright by BLS

How's Your House Standing?

2009-07-25T09:40:00.000-07:00

What do we find happening in a home, church, or business, when those in it can't be seen eye-to-eye? Even worse, what happens when the flesh takes over and people are demanding things be done and seen their way?

Jesus was confronted regarding His removal of demons from those seeking healing. He was accused of serving Beelzebub. How does he respond? Looking at them He says, "Any kingdom divided against itself will be ruined, and a house divided against itself will fall." Luke 11:17, NIV

What are we promoting...unity or division? If it's division, God will keep His word....our kingdom will be ruined and our house will fall. Let's seek the heart of our Savior...unity.

copyrighted by BLS

Do Tell....

2009-07-17T20:01:00.000-07:00

Can others really know our heart? It seems like a good way to shut a conversation down is to say, "Don't judge me." Or to say, "You don't know my heart."

What does the Word of God say regarding this subject?

"The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For out of the overflow of his heart his mouth speaks." Luke 6:45, NIV

Well, what do you know about that? According to scripture we reveal our heart to those around us by the words we speak. So, what are people hearing? Good or evil?

copyrighted by BLS

Welcome?

2009-07-11T12:37:00.001-07:00

It's a simple gesture. Either we're welcome in the lives of others or not. The question is, how welcoming are we to others in our lives?

Jesus said, "When you enter a house, first say, 'Peace to this house.' If a man of peace is there, your peace will rest on him; if not, it will return to you." Luke 10:5-6, NIV

Are we a man of peace or do others leave because peace doesn't rest on us? May we allow others in our lives, and may we invite others in too. We make the choice. What are we choosing?

copyrighted by BLS

Can You See?

2009-07-07T04:16:00.000-07:00

What is the purpose of light? A simple question we all know the answer. When we're in a dark place, it enables us to see.

Jesus said, "No one lights a lamp and hides it in a jar or puts it under a bed. Instead, he puts it on a stand, so that those who come in can see the light." Luke 8:16, NIV. Of course, we're going to place a light in a spot that allows others to see. It only makes sense.

Do we do the same thing with our relationship with Jesus? Are we placing it in a way for others to see Him in us? Jesus lives in us as His children, so let's be sure others can see Him!

copyrighted by BLS

Where are the Harvesters?

2009-07-02T19:34:00.000-07:00

How is it possible to reach so many with so few to help? How do we get the job done? It's a common issue in many congregations. "The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into His harvest field." Luke 10:2, NIV

So, we need to ask? Are we using the gifts and talents the Lord has equipped us with to harvest the fields? How sad when we think we need to retire from serving our Savior and those needing us. May we faithfully serve until the day we meet our Savior with those abilities He has given to us to use for Him.

copyrighted by BLS

Who We Listening To?

2009-06-27T12:14:00.000-07:00

What did he say? Am I suppose to do that? So often, we can hear a message and wonder, do we do this? How do we do this?

Luke 10:16 says, "He who listens to you listens to Me; he who rejects you rejects Me; but he who rejects Me rejects Him who sent Me." NIV

When we hear a message, we need to look at it in comparison to the Scriptures. If the Lord is calling us to do what we aren't comfortable doing, He'll empower us to do what He's calling us to do. We're to pray for our enemies, to be kind toward one another, and to love one another.

Let's remember that if we listen to those teaching the truth of God's Word, we're directly listening to the Lord. If we reject instructions from His Word, we're rejecting Him and the One who sent Him. What are we choosing to do today?

copyrighted by BLS

Know Who You Are!

2009-06-11T06:52:00.000-07:00

It's been forty days since Jesus last ate. He had been in the desert, and He was hungry. Who wouldn't be? It's at our weakest that Satan will make his appearance, and there was no exception with Jesus.

Satan tells Jesus to prove He is God's Son by turning the rocks into bread. Jesus refuses, and so Satan takes Him to a high place and offers Him the authority of the kingdoms seen from there.

Jesus says, "Get thee behind Me, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and Him only shalt thou serve." Luke 4:8, KJV

Jesus knew Who He was and He knew the Word. He knew how to defeat the temptations the enemy threw at Him. Do we? How well do we know the Word? How well do we understand our own weaknesses to defeat the enemy when he strikes us when we're down?

May we stay in the Word of God daily and pray for understanding against the enemy who wishes to steal, kill, and ultimately destroy us. (John 10:10)

copyrighted by BLS

He Will Do It!

2009-06-10T06:45:00.000-07:00

Jesus spoke to the men sitting in their boat. Their nets were down, and they were busy at work. "Come, follow Me," Jesus said, "and I will make you fishers of men." At once they left their nets and followed Him. NIV

They must've heard about this man. When He said come, they came. They didn't say, "Let me finish what I'm doing first." They didn't even put their nets away. They believed in the mission of the man in front of them. They accepted their calling.

Do we understand that today, Jesus is asking the same thing of us? He wants us to reach out to those around us. If we have placed our faith in Him, there are those around us who haven't. The most important thing we can do in this life is to bring others to faith in Jesus.

Do we hear Him calling us away from our nets today to follow Him?

copyrighted by BLS

Identification and Instructions

2009-06-08T18:54:00.000-07:00

Just before ascending into heaven to rejoin His Father, Jesus said to those gathered with Him, "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, NIV

These verses give us information about Jesus and His last instructions for us. We're first told that He has ALL authority. It's not only in heaven but on earth as well. We're told that this authority was given to Him. Since He is trustworthy, it's good to know Who is in charge of all things. He leaves us then with the promise of His constant presence with us until the very end of the age. No matter what comes our way, He's there whether we recognize or acknowledge it.

So what should be our response to His authority? We should do what He says, and here we're told to make disciples of all nations. After showing them their need for a Savior and that Jesus is that Savior, we're to encourage them to follow in baptism as well as reminding them that the Holy Spirit now dwells within them. Our final instruction is to teach others the things we all are to know about obeying His commands.

Let's remember who Jesus is and what we're to do!

copyrighted by BLS

What Are We Doing Today?

2009-06-02T07:18:00.000-07:00

Jesus had arisen in the early morning to spend some solitary time alone. When Simon and the others caught up with him, Jesus said, "Let us go somewhere else--to the nearby villages--so I can preach there also. That is why I have come." NIV

Jesus knew what the Father had called Him to do. He daily sought the Lord for the details of the wheres, but He already knew the whats. Do we know what the Lord is daily calling us to do? It's no secret if we seek Him for direction.

It doesn't say whether Simon questioned Jesus' direction. All we are told is that they followed Jesus where He told them to go. May we do the same.

copyrighted by BLS

You've Got to Ask

2009-05-11T09:34:00.000-07:00

"What do you want Me to do for you?" Jesus asked him. The blind man said, "Rabbi, I want to see." "Go," said Jesus, "your faith has healed you." Immediately he received his sight and followed Jesus along the road. (Mark 10:51-52; NIV)

Can we hear Him reaching out to us each day? He's asking us as well, "What do you want Me to do for you?" He wants us to tell Him what we need. Do we know what we need? If we aren't aware of what we need then its hard to express them to Him.

His desire is to do for us what He did for this blind man. He wants us to believe that whatever we're asking for, He is able to do. He knows our needs and wants to meet them. So often we don't get our needs met. Why?

It's not because He isn't able. It's because we haven't brought them to the One who is able to meet our needs. Trust today in the One who cares about what you're enduring.

copyrighted by BLS

For Others Only

2009-05-02T07:44:00.000-07:00

The desire to be noticed is in us all. We want to know we make a difference. We want to know that we've accomplished something. It's nice to know when we've helped another.

Jesus says in Mark 10:45, "For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many." NIV

Jesus' motivation wasn't self-serving in anyway. He didn't look to be served, but always was doing for others, such as healing, feeding, and raising from the dead. More than anything, His life was to give and ultimately it meant His own life.

We aren't Jesus, but we can develop His "others" attiutude.

Father, help us focus on what is best for others and not ourselves. May we always remember that as we look after others, You will care for us. Amen.

copyrighted by BLS

Come Alone

2009-04-28T06:54:00.000-07:00

A moment away. A place where there are no distractions. A secluded spot to think and concentrate.

Envision all that as Jesus says in Mark 6:31, "Come with Me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest." NIV

A time with Jesus for Him to speak into our lives. What do we want to hear? Surely, we want to know He is with us. He sees all and cares deeply about us. We desire to know He heard our cry and will rescue us.

All those things are true but often we don't hear it because we haven't taken time to come to the quiet place alone with Him. Strive each day for those times with the One who loves us most.

copyrighted by BLS

Exposure Comes

2009-04-27T07:19:00.000-07:00

Would we ever deliberately place a lamp under a bowl or under a bed? What would be the purpose of doing such a thing? What good is it under a bowl or bed? If we want to read under our bed, it might be helpful. Who would do that?

Using that illustration Jesus wants to teach us something valuable in Mark 4:21-22, "Do you bring in a lamp to put it under a bowl or a bed? Instead, don't you put it on its stand? For whatever is hidden is meant to be disclosed, and whatever is concealed is meant to be brought out into the open." NIV

The light illuminates those things that are hidden in the darkness. It's purpose is to bring expose. Indeed, Jesus told us that He was the Light of the world. He wants to expose all things hidden and concealed with His love and His truth. His desire is to rid our lives of those things that rob us of loving and serving Him fully.

What are we doing with our lamp? Are we letting Him reveal to us those things that ensnare us to the hurts of this world or are we allowing Him to open us up to healing in Him? The Lord loves His children enough to expose all those hidden things. Let's do that sooner than later, ok?

copyrighted by BLS

Put It Away

2009-04-25T13:52:00.000-07:00

Simple words but difficult to live by. Jesus tells us in Mark 5:36, "Don't be afraid; just believe." NIV

How do we do it? We need to realize where fear comes. It's not from the Lord. It's from the enemy who wants to steal, kill, and destroy us. We need to be honest about how we are feeling before the Lord.

Satan doesn't want us to believe in the One who has great and wonderful plans for our lives. If he can trap us into believing the Lord doesn't truly care about us, then we can stay in fear and not live in faith and belief.

Father, help us to put away all fear. May we cast it on You and believe what You say about us. Our life has value and worth, and You have a plan for us. Thank You. Amen.

What's It About?

2009-04-22T18:28:00.001-07:00

Our society promotes self. It's all about me. What's best for me? How could do we look? What can we get?

Jesus promoted something entirely different. In Mark 8:34 He said, "If anyone would come after Me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow Me." NIV

We're instructed to deny ourselves. We're to take up Jesus' cross. We're to follow Jesus. It's not about me, but about Jesus.

What are we doing daily to follow Jesus? Does our words, actions, and thoughts honor and glorify Him or self?

Father, help our lives to be all about You. Amen.

What are You Considering?

2009-04-15T06:41:00.000-07:00

Mark 4:24-25 gives us this warning, "Consider carefully what you hear," He (Jesus) continued, "With the measure you use, it will be measured to you--and even more. Whoever has will be given more; whoever does not have, even what he has will be taken from him." NIV

What is the question to consider here? There are quite a few that come to mind. How much have we been given? What are we doing with what we have been given? Are we trustworthy with what we have been given? Do we even understand what we have been given?

What have you heard? Does it line up with God's Word? How do we measure what we hear?

May we carefully consider today.

copyrighted by BLS

Watch and Pray

2009-04-14T04:19:00.001-07:00

We are reminded in Matthew 26:41 that the way to avoid temptation is to actually be aware of it. Jesus was talking to the disciples He took to the Garden of Gethsemane with Him. However, the warning is still for us today.

"Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the body is weak." NIV

When trials and hurts come our way, it's natural to jump in with our responses. When we're quick to respond, we can often say things we regret. Once they're said, the damage is done. We can apologize but we can never undo what we said. We need to be aware of our weaknesses, and we need to pray.

Let's not get caught up in the intensity and emotions of the minute that we don't stop and take a minute to pray before we speak. Our body is weak, but the spirit that is willing gains strength to obey when one watches and prays.

Are we aware what causes us to stumble and fall? We must be honest and know our weaknesses and then depend on the Lord to overcome and take the route of escape that is always provided in times of temptation.

copyrighted by BLS

Caught...

2009-04-13T04:29:00.000-07:00

"But when they persisted in asking Him, He straightened up, and said to them, 'He who is without sin among you, let him be the first to throw a stone at her.' " John 8:7; NASB

The only one able to cast the first stone at the woman caught in the act of adultery, was Jesus. However, instead, He speaks compassion into her life and tells her to sin no more. He didn't ask any questions. He made no accusation. He cast no condemnation onto her. He instead was loving, kind, patient, gracious, merciful, gentle, and filled with self-control in dealing with her.

How do we respond to those caught in the very act of sin?

copyrighted by BLS

Resurrection Sunday!

2009-04-12T04:08:00.000-07:00

I wish to let all your readers know that I wish you all a very Happy Resurrection Sunday!

My thoughts are on the reality that the One that we love and serve isn't dead. He conquored the death and the grave and is risen! We have a hope for a life beyond this one because of the resurrection of Jesus. We serve a living Savior!

May that truth sink in completely today with all the things we do this day!

Good News

2009-04-11T04:14:00.000-07:00

How do we describe the one who helped us understand the salvation that was provided for us through Jesus Christ? Do we understand all that took place at that moment when we transferred our trust to Him? Do we praise the Lord for the person or people He used in our lives to bring us the truth?

Paul wrote his description of those that share the gospel like this in Romans 10:15, "...it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!" KJV

May we praise You Lord for those You brought into our lives to preach the gospel to us. May we be bearers of that good news as well.

copyrighted by BLS

The Cross Means What?

2009-04-09T04:21:00.000-07:00

It doesn't make any sense. Isn't there a better way? How can that be the way?

1 Corithians 1:18 says that, "For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God." KJV The Lord knows all things. Sees all things. He loved us enough to not want us to remain in our sinful state forever. He desires relationship with us.

The cross doesn't make sense to those who haven't put their trust in not only the crucifixion of Jesus but the resurrected Lord. It seems foolish to the heart absent of God's Spirit, but for those of us who are saved, the cross represents the power to overcome the destruction of sin in our lives.

Which are we? Does the cross represent foolishness or wisdom?

copyrighted by BLS

Are You Ready?

2009-04-08T04:33:00.000-07:00

Over and over people give a testimony of the difference another person made in their coming to the Lord. People watch the lives of others. Some people call it "judging", but those without Christ are looking for a hope. They watch the lives of others going through difficult times, and they are curious as to "how" someone go through it.

1 Peter 3;15 says, "Be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear." KJV If people aren't asking about our life, then we need to wonder if we are reflecting Jesus to a lost world. If people are asking, then we can be assured that the Lord wants us to be ready at all times to tell others the difference He is making in our lives.

Father, help me to always be ready to share the difference You have made in my heart and life. Amen.

copyrighted by BLS

Submission No Matter What?

2009-04-07T08:07:00.001-07:00

Do we really trust the Lord? Are we willing to submit no matter what it might mean?

This is the week we remember the ultimate act of submission by the Son of God. Was it easy? Matthew 26:39 gives us a glance into the struggle the human part of Jesus had with His upcoming death. It says, "Going a little farther, He fell with His face to the ground and prayed, "My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from Me. Yet not as I will, but as You will." NIV

How willing would we submit to the Lord if we knew what our future held for us? Would we choose submission if we knew it held deep suffering? If we're only a little hesitant, it reveals our lack of confidence that the Lord wants the best for us. Do we believe the Lord is good "all the time" when we are going through difficult times?

Father, help our unbelief as we're human and frail. We fail You, but you will never fail us. Amen.

copyrighted by BLS

Ready to Go Yet?

2009-04-05T04:01:00.000-07:00

How long does it take to get ready to go out? Some can do it quickly, and others have to have lots of time of preparation to leave.

Matthew 24:44 says, "You also must be ready because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect Him." NIV

We don't know when. All we know is that we are told to be ready to go when He comes.

Do we know what to do to prepare for His coming for us? Certainly we need to be found faithful in all He has called us to do. Are we ready right now if He comes? Hopefully we are!

copyrighted by BLS

Serving Others

2009-04-02T06:27:00.000-07:00

It's only natural. We come into this world being the center of attention to the parents who have been blessed to be entrusted with our lives. After learning to say "mommy" and "daddy", the word "me" is not that further behind in our vocabulary.

Matthew 23:11-12 says, "The greatest among you will be your servant. For whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted." NIV The flesh cries out for attention, and for some with those outgoing personalities, humility is even more difficult.

However, with the strength and power of the Holy Spirit working in each one of us, it's possible to put others before us and to serve them. No matter whether we are shy or outgoing, the Lord wants us to be humble. In His time and way, He always exalts the humble.

copyrighted by BLS

Where Do We Spend our Time?

2009-03-31T04:26:00.000-07:00

Where do we focus our thoughts? What causes us to become anxious and uptight? What do we do with most of the free time of day?

Matthew 22:37-38 says, "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment." NIV How much of our focus is on honoring and glorifying the Lord? Are we seeking to truly know and love Him each day?

We can know if we're growing in our relationship with the Lord by the amount of time we spend interacting with Him. We can say He is important to us, but if we're not in His Word and not talking to Him, we're deceiving ourselves. We always take time for those that are important to us. Does our time reflect a deep love and desire to know Him?

copyrighted by BLS

It Can Come

2009-03-30T04:29:00.000-07:00

We feel unsettled and unsatisfied. We aren't content, but sometimes don't necessarily understand why. Often times our peace as evaded us, and we're left feeling confused.

John 14:27 says, "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid."

So often we're looking for those things that the world offers in a temporary status. We sometimes believe that the more we own, the happier we will be. If we get that job promotion, then we will be content.

However, nothing this life has to offer will bring satisfaction if it is empty of a close relationship with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. The Lord created us to want Him and without Him we will never truly know peace and a life without fear.

Father, help us to look to You and to fully experience the peace You intend for us to know. Amen.

copyrighted by BLS

Spring Break

2009-03-24T12:50:00.000-07:00

Hello faithful readers!

I'm taking a short family spring break with my vacation and so will not be updating here again until Monday, March 30. Please come back then!

Children and Jesus

2009-03-23T04:09:00.000-07:00

The love and devotion of a child is amazing. Until they reach a certain age, they will keep their simple faith in those that love and care for them. Disrupt their early years, and some things become unsettling and difficult for them.

However Jesus tells us, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these." NIV Heaven forbid, we should ever do anything to keep children from seeing Jesus. Jesus holds them up as example to us. May we live in such a way that our lives point not only our children, but the friends of children to Jesus.

What are little children observing in us today as we live out our lives before them? Are we hindering or helping them see Jesus?

copyrighted by BLS

Look Up not In

2009-03-20T04:31:00.000-07:00

What are we to do? How do we know what to do? Where do we find the answers?

Joshua 1:8 says, "Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful."

If we truly want the Lord's answers, then we must turn to Him. He is the source of all things. He knows what is best. He knows how to lead us? In knows the what's, how's, and where's? Do we believe that? If we do, we will turn to the One Who knows all, sees all, and is everywhere for our answers. We're promised success when we keep His Words as a part of our life.

copyrighted by BLS

Choose Today...

2009-03-19T04:43:00.000-07:00

When someone has broken into a home or vehicle, those who were robbed have such a strong sense of violation. It doesn't matter as much what they took as the fact as that a person invaded a place where we felt safe.

John 10:10 says, "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full."

When the Lord comes into our lives, He leaves us with the hope of life. He takes those places of emptiness and fills them with Himself. He takes those things the enemy meant to hurt and destroy us and can use them for life and godliness.

Whenever the statement is made, "His pain, Our gain", we instantly think of the crucifixion. A step further is that the Lord wants us to realize that our pain can be used for the gain of others. Our pain is the steps for ministry to others, if we let it be.

Don't let the thief steal, kill, and destroy what God can use to make our lives full and complete!

copyrighted by BLS

Wait and See

2009-03-18T04:43:00.000-07:00

What does the Lord desire to give us? Where is the depth of His heart toward us who constantly sin and let Him down?

Isaiah 30:18 says, "Yet the Lord longs to be gracious to you, He rises to show you compassion. For the Lord is a God of justice. Blessed are all who wait for Him."

He's not out to get us. He's not against us, but for us all the way. He is waiting, yearning, and longing to be gracious toward us. So how come we aren't always seeing that? According to this verse, it's because we aren't waiting for Him. We're probably too busy jumping ahead of Him trying to come up with our own solutions that we block His compassion and justice.

We need to wait and then we'll be able to see what the Lord can and will do. Are we waiting? Grace, compassion, and justice comes to those who wait.

copyrighted by BLS

Words and Their Effects

2009-03-17T04:26:00.001-07:00

1 Peter 3: 10 gives us a warning regarding the way in which we're to speak. It says, "Whoever would love life and see good days must keep his tongue from evil and his lips from deceitful speech."

If we wish to see the power of the Lord working in our lives, then we must seek to honor Him. We are told here that the way in which we can truly love our lives and to see good days is to do two things. Both of these things involve our speech.

What is the Lord's will for our lives? First of all, He wishes that we do not use our tongue for speaking evil about or toward others. The opposite would be to speak good and blessing into the lives of those we daily have contact with? What words of encouragement can we say to others today?

Secondly, we're to keep deceitful speech away from our lips as well. When we speak, we're to speak the truth in love. People should be able to know exactly where our heart is focused after speaking with us.

Father, may our words give You honor and glory today.

copyrighted by BLS

We Have It All...

2009-03-13T04:27:00.000-07:00

We're in a spiritual warfare whether we're aware of it or not. 2 Corinthians 10:4-5 says, "The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds."

God's enemy is our enemy as well. Satan is seeking to devour whoever will let him. He doesn't fight fair at all. He uses lies, deception, and half-truths. He appears as an angel of light, but schemes and plans according to our weaknesses to drag us away from full submission and obedience to the Lord.

We don't have to let him win, but we do when refuse to acknowledge the battle and don't take up the weapons that are provided for us. Paul tells us that our weapons are the provided. We've been given the equipment to not only protect ourselves from the attack, but to fight against our enemy.

Do we have on our helmet of salvation and belt of truth? Have we picked up the shield of faith and the sword of the Spirit? Are our feet prepared with the gospel? May we not forsake the assembling together so that we're prepared with the army the Lord provided us with to fight against the enemy of our soul.

copyrighted by BLS

Take the Woe Seriously!

2009-03-12T04:29:00.000-07:00

Take note. We have been warned. For Matthew 18:7 says, "Woe to the world because of the things that cause people to sin! Such things must come, but woe to the man through whom they come!" NIV

We indeed can be responsible for the sins of others. If we are serving self and causing others to stumble in either their walk or belief in the Lord, we will stand before the Lord for that. We each choose our own responses, but we're responsible for the influence we have on others.

Every word in the Scripture is true. The Lord wants us to consider the way in which we live and the way that influences others. How else does the world come up with their main excuse for not attending church, "It's filled with hypocrites!"? It's because of the fact that they care more about what we do then what we say. Do our actions line up to God's Word?

Father, show each one of us how to live so that others may see the power of Jesus living in and through us. Amen.

copyrighted by BLS

Our Lives

2009-03-11T04:36:00.000-07:00

Matthew 18:5-6 says, "And whoever welcomes a little child like this in My name welcomes Me. But if anyone causes one of these little ones who believe in Me to sin, it would be better for him to have a large millstone hung around his neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea." NIV

It has been said that every child would come to faith in Jesus if it weren't for an adult blocking the way. How sad when parents live lives that exclude an introduction to Jesus. Of course, it's hard for a parent who doesn't know Jesus, to introduce their child to someone they themselves don't know.

This verse is talking about so much more then that. It's talking about those who raises their children in the church but live lives contrary to God's Word. The children aren't fooled and neither is the Lord. Do we ever consider the impact of our lives on those around us?

copyrighted by BLS

Good Comes

2009-03-09T04:34:00.001-07:00

Imagine knowing what the future held. Imagine knowing that it held the betrayal of someone we loved and trusted.

Jesus knew what was about to take place and He told His disciples so that they wouldn't be completely caught off guard when it happened. It says in Matthew 17:22-23, "The Son of Man is going to be betrayed into the hands of men. They will kill Him, and on the third day He will be raised to life." NIV

It certainly wouldn't start out seeming to be good. All the future seemed to hold was disaster for the Son of Man. It would include betrayal and ultimately death. But don't miss the ending, on the third day, life was promised! This is the Lord in all things. No matter how dark the clouds may be, because of the Lord, a the silver lining is always promised to those who love Him!

copyrighted by BLS

Just Takes a Little

2009-03-08T04:14:00.000-07:00

How much can we do? What will the Lord enable us to do?

Matthew 17:20 says, "For verily I say unto you, if you have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you." KJV

Depending upon on our faith in our Savior and what He is able to do in us, will depend on the things we are able to accomplish with Him. If we have fully surrendered to Him and choose to obey Him, we can do things that within ourselves we are not capable. In our flesh, we are weak. However, in Christ, we have been given a strength and grace that is sufficient.

Do we believe it? Indeed, it is our lack of faith that holds us back in accomplishing the Lord's desire in us. Will we water that little mustard seed of faith so that God can reap a harvest through us?

copyrighted by BLS

Beyond This Life

2009-03-06T04:23:00.000-08:00

What are we looking for in this life? What will we do to get it?

Matthew 16:26 says, "What good will it be for a man, if he gains the whole world, yet forfeits his soul?" NIV

What does this life have to offer outside of Christ for us? The greatest job without submission to the Lord means nothing past this life? Whatever we pursue in this life, we must ask ourselves, what will it mean when we face the Lord? Can we take it with us?

The only thing we take into eternity with us is the people we make a difference to for Jesus. This life has nothing to offer if it means an eternity without Jesus. What are we building for the life to yet come?

copyrighted by BLS

Receive a Filling

2009-03-05T04:36:00.000-08:00

What are we looking for from this life? Certainly we want a sense of joy, but more than likely, we all are searching for peace.

Romans 15:13 says, "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit."

We learn some important things here. Joy and peace come from trusting in the God who is able to fill you with it. God's desire is not only for us to be filled with joy and peace, but His desire is that we overflow with hope. Finally this filling comes from the power of the Holy Spirit dwelling within each believer. May this verse be our prayer of supplication today.

copyrighted by BLS

Transformation is His Will

2009-03-04T04:38:00.000-08:00

Do we enjoy the path we are traveling in our spiritual walk with the Lord? Do we notice things that we think about, say, or do that are not pleasing to the Lord? What thoughts and ways are the Lords and which are the philosophy of the world in which we live?

Romans 12:2 says, "Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is..His good, pleasing, and perfect will."

What is the Lord's will for us? It's that our minds would be transformed instead of conformed to the thinking of this world. May we daily evaluate our lives and see whether they line up to God's Word or not. Our transformation is part of God's good, pleasing, and perfect will.

copyrighted by BLS

What's Coming Out?

2009-03-03T04:14:00.000-08:00

How do we become defiled? We are like sponges. What we put in we are told from scripture is what will pour out of us when life squeezes against us.

Matthew 15:10-11 says, "Listen and understand. What goes into a man's mouth does not make him "unclean," but what comes out of his mouth, that is what makes him "unclean." NIV

So what are we saying? Are we expressing words of trust in our Savior or fear? Have we given honor to the Lord when we responded to the rude person in our home, work, or church? Would others see Christ living in and through us if they overheard our conversations? We must evaluate our words to truly understand the condition of our heart each day? What are our words saying?

copyrighted by BLS

No Need to Fear

2009-03-02T04:19:00.000-08:00

Fear. It can grip our lives and hearts and overwhelm us. We can become paralyzed in our living for fear of what tomorrow will bring, especially when we are facing areas regarding either our health or the health of our loved ones. What is our hope?

Jesus said to the disciples as He came to them in the storm while they were on the boat, "Take courage! It is I. Don't be afraid." NIV If we face our worse fears, in Christ, we have a hope that He is there. We may not like our circumstances, but He is there. On our own, we can't take courage, but with His presence we can.

No matter what life brings our way, as believers we have the absolute assurance of His presence. We may not feel it, but it doesn't take away the truth. We aren't alone ever. He is there. We can take courage, Jesus is who He says He is, and He is there.

copyrighted by BLS

In Christ There is Hope

2009-03-01T04:22:00.000-08:00

Many times we can try and try as hard as we can, only to feel as if it still wasn't good enough. We didn't make the grade, get the promotion, or whatever. We can feel as if we are failures and just want to give up completely.

We need to remember the words given to us from Paul in Romans 8:1, "Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus." NASB Ultimately our God's archenemy as well as ours, Satan, wants us to give up. He wants us to feel hopeless. He is the one who condemns us when we don't do well.

We need to remember, that as a child of God, we are accepted and loved. Provision for our failures has been made. Hanging on the cross, Jesus received the punishment for our sins and failures. We have a future because we're children of God. Let's not let lies cause us to forget Who we belong to.

copyrighted by BLS

The Thoughts and Heart

2009-02-28T04:40:00.000-08:00

What do we cherish most? Where do we spend the majority of our thoughts?

Psalm 119:15-16 says, "I meditate on your precepts and consider your ways. I delight in your decrees, I will not neglect your word."

It's the Lord's desire that our thoughts be toward Him. He wants us to seek Him and find our satisfaction in our relationship with Him. If we are seeking to know His Words, then we will seek to follow them as well. What has the most attention in our thought life? We can't separate the two. Where we think is what we treasure most in our hearts.

Father, may I ever be mindful of You....loving and obeying You. Amen.

Take a Step

2009-02-27T04:40:00.000-08:00

How much faith does it take to move mountains? What does faith look like?

Matthew 13:31-32 says, "The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed, which a man took and planted in his field. Though it is the smallest of all your seeds, yet when it grows, it is the largest of garden plants and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and perch in its branches." NIV

Faith always begins small. It begins with tiny steps forward, but with each step it's able to grow. If we remain stationary, then so will our faith. However, the Lord is calling us to place one foot in front of another, trust Him, and watch Him grow us. What are we doing? Faith doesn't grow if it isn't watered. Let's water our faith and move forward to what the Lord is calling us to do for Him.

copyrighted by BLS

Are We Really Hearing?

2009-02-26T04:38:00.001-08:00

What's the point? Sometimes when talking to people, we can talk to them until we are blue in the face. They just don't get it? Reasons vary. Sometimes because they aren't truly listening and other times just because their hearts are blinded to the truth.

Jesus said in Matthew 13:13, "This is why I speak to them in parables: though seeing, they do not see; though hearing, they do not hear or understand." NIV Jesus began to understand there were people in the crowd who were just not getting it. Instead of speaking to them more bluntly and trying to get them to understand, He instead spoke in parables. So to many, it just sounded like good stories to the listeners.

Would we be the among He would explain the parable to or would we be the ones who just don't see or hear? It's an open and willing heart to know truth that determines if we get the message or not? Do we know what kind of heart we have toward the Lord and truth?

copyrighted by BLS

What are You Choosing?

2009-02-25T04:42:00.000-08:00

Are we feeling bogged down by the pressures and stresses of life? Do we feel as if we can't go on?

We are reminded in Hebrews 12:1 that Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us. KJV

It's not the Lord's desire for us to feel trapped by the things of this life. His desire is to set us free and enable us to experience the freedom that comes from trusting Him. He provides what we need if we are willing to lay aside those things that keep us from seeing Him. The race run with patience is before us, but we have to choose to take it. Will we?

copyrighted by BLS

Do Good

2009-02-24T04:39:00.000-08:00

Do we really understand just how valuable we are to the Lord? Have we been able to comprehend the extend of His love and grace for us? Do we really get it?

Matthew 12:11-12 says, "If any of you has a sheep and it falls into a pit on the Sabbath, will you not take hold of it and lift it out? How much more valuable is a man than a sheep! Therefore it is lawful to do good on the Sabbath." NIV

We aren't suppose to get so caught up in the laws that we lack doing good for the one that needs it on the Sabbath, even if it is an animal. The Lord didn't make the laws, so that they would keep us from doing good, but to remind us what is good. We're to honor the Sabbath by extending kindness when the opportunities arise no matter what day it is.

copyrighted by BLS

Simply Come

2009-02-23T04:30:00.000-08:00

There are times in our lives when all of life gets in the way. It seems like troubles come in multiples, and we can become overwhelmed. We can wonder how we are going to keep breathing and keep moving forward in life.

Matthew 11:28-30 are words of comfort from our Savior, "Come unto Me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light." KJV

We learn several things from our Lord's words here. First is His desire for us to trust Him, but we also see that He recognizes two things. He knows we are struggling deeply, and we need rest. He assures us that He knows how to ease our burden. We are told that He is our place of refuge because He is meek and lowly in heart, and He can provide rest for our souls. Do we want rest? If we truly do then we must recognize what we need to do... come to Him. Otherwise rest will continue to elude us.

copyrighted by BLS

Extending Grace

2009-02-22T04:27:00.000-08:00

How often do we expect so much from ourselves, and then when we don't meet up to our own standards we beat ourselves up? How often do we also do the same toward others?

Romans 8:1 says, "Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus."

NASB

Do we get that? Do we truly understand that? In the midst of conviction when we have blown it, do we truly understand the extent of the Lord's forgiveness for us? Do we desire grace and mercy by those around us when we mess up? Do we extend the same toward other brothers and sisters in the Lord when they mess up? Is our church a place for healing or are we shooting our wounded?

Father, enable us to understand Your forgiveness so that we might live above the enemies destructive lie that we are hopeless and useless for Your Kingdom. Help us to extend grace and mercy toward those around us who need to be lifted out of the mire and given encouragement to continue the race of following You. Amen.

copyrighted by BLS

Know That You Know?

2009-02-20T04:54:00.000-08:00

Do we know that we know that we know Him? How do we know? How can we be sure?

Matthew 11:27 says, "All things have been committed to Me by My Father. No one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and to those whom the Son chooses to reveal Him." NIV

We are told that if we know the Son we know the Father. The Son chooses to reveal Himself to certain ones. He's looking for the humble heart. He's looking for those searching for Him with an open heart. In His searching and choosing, will we be among them? He wants it if we do.

copyrighted by BLS

Simple Enough for a Child to See

2009-02-19T04:17:00.000-08:00

We know as much as the Lord desires for us to know for this time in our lives. The Word of God has been given to us to reveal truth to us, but what is not known is hidden for a reason.

Matthew 11:25-26 says, "I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because You have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children. Yes, Father, for this was Your good pleasure." NIV

Sometimes it's the children who teach the adults those things that seem to hard to understand. The faith and trust of a child is so full and complete. It's time and adults that warp that for them. It was God's pleasure to reveal things to the children instead of those that felt they were wiser and knew more. Let's not complicate what the Lord wants us to understand about living life in a way that honors and pleases Him.

copyrighted by BLS

It Makes A Difference

2009-02-18T04:40:00.001-08:00

Did sharing a portion of our lunch mean anything to that little Mexican girl and boy? What did taking that homeless person out for coffee mean? Does the money we give toward missions make a difference?

Matthew 10:42 says, "If anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones because he is My disciple, I tell you the truth, he will certainly not lose his reward." NIV So often we don't see the results of our small acts of kindness. We wonder if it truly makes any difference at all. We are a society of results and many times in these cases we have no clue what impact we are making in the lives of others.

According to Jesus, as His disciples even a cold cup of water to a little one has a reward. No, we may not see it here, but it's coming. Everything we do impacts the lives around us, who we serving, Jesus or ourselves?

copyrighted by BLS

Surrender...a Freeing Word

2009-02-17T04:35:00.000-08:00

We can't give a portion. We can't withhold anything. We must surrender all. Oh how difficult it is to even think that word let alone to obey.

Matthew 10:38-40 tell us, "Anyone who does not take his cross and follow Me is not worthy of Me. Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for My sake will find it. He who receives you receives Me, and he who receives Me receives the One who sent Me." NIV

It's all about Him. From beginning to end, it's what He says that stands true in our hearts and lives. We may think that surrender will put chains upon us, but that isn't true when it comes to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. We can never truly know freedom if we don't surrender. Let's do that today and everyday!

copyrighted by BLS

What am I Doing?

2009-02-16T04:24:00.000-08:00

How do we feel about our relationship with the Lord? Is it something we're thankful and glad we have? Are we willing to share it with others or do we guard that part of our life as something private and just between us and the Lord?

Matthew 10:32-33 says, "Whosoever therefore shall confess Me before men, him will I confess also before My Father which is in heaven. But whosoever shall deny Me before men, him will I also deny before My Father which is in heaven." KJV

Everything about our lives should point back to the Lord. Others should recognize something about us that is different then the world around us. If we're hiding our faith under a bushel, not wanting to share it, we need to ask why?

Sometimes we're ashamed because when we share our faith with another and emphasized their need, they called us "judgmental". Often times when repentance and salvation takes place, we immediately realize the changes we need to make in our thoughts, words, and actions. Those that don't understand that feel threatened in some way and pull away.

No matter what, may we ask ourselves, how do we truly feel about Jesus? Do we want others to know Him too or do we hide in fear of what others will think of us for following Him?

copyrighted by BLS

What Does He Say?

2009-02-15T04:25:00.000-08:00

In a world when so much emphasis of importance is displaced, many of us don't realize our true significance. We can believe that we need to look a certain way or own things that give us value.

Yet the Lord tells us something different then the world does. "Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from the will of your Father. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So don't be afraid, you are worth more than many sparrows." (Matthew 10:29-31, NIV)

We're the only ones of God's creation that are made in the image of God. It's for us that salvation was made through the sacrificial death of God's only Son. Our fears are eased if we can grasp the thought of how valuable we truly are to the Lord.

It's His opinion regarding us that matters most. It's Him we need to strive to honor and please. Our relationship with Him is for eternity, and He remains beside us. He's the only One that not only knows where we've been, but was there with us. Let's allow His opinion to matter most to us.

copyrighted by BLS

Go to the Open

2009-02-14T04:54:00.000-08:00

What are we do? Where are we to go? How long do we stay?

Matthew 10:13-14 is Jesus' instructions to His disciples on ministry opportunities. He says, "If the home is deserving, let your peace resst on it; if it is not, let your peace return to you. If anyone will not welcome you or listen to your words, shake the dust off your feet when you leave that home or town." NIV

We are called to go, but we aren't called to stay where we aren't welcome. We are to do what those we reach out to are willing to receive. Our responsibility ends when they close the door to us. So often we can try pushing down doors that are bolted closed.

The Lord wants us to move on with His truth to those willing to receive it. We accomplish nothing when we are trying to shove the gospel down those unwilling to receive it, except for causing their hearts to become harder. Henry Blackaby says in his Bible study, "Look for where God is working and go there." Let's do just that today.

copyrighted by BLS

Go and Tell

2009-02-13T04:38:00.001-08:00

Who needs to hear? Where do we take the salvation message? What will happen when we do?

Matthew 10:6-8 says, "Go rather to the lost sheep of Israel. As you do, preach this message: "The kingdom of heaven is near." Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse those who have leprosy, drive out demons. Freely you have received, freely give."NIV

All around us are those that are spiritually sick. They have no hope beyond this life. They're dead in their trespasses and sins, and without Christ they'll remain dead. When we share Jesus, we help to heal the sin sick, those with diseases, and those dead in sin. Do we know Jesus?If so, we need to tell others.

copyrighted by BLS

Let's Get Real

2009-02-12T04:52:00.000-08:00

Matthew 9:37-38 says, "The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into His harvest field." NIV

All around us, sometimes within our own families, are those that are without the saving knowledge of Jesus. Many of these folks are even sitting within the walls of our sanctuary. Yet, many of us believers do what we're most comfortable with. We occupy the pew for a service, and then go along our way the rest of the week doing our own thing. Volunteer to do something for others? What?

How sad for many congregations that they have to beg and plead for someone to work in the nursery or children's worship. What do you mean stay for a fellowship and help clean up afterward? The saddest is those that retire from serving in the church because they retired from their jobs. We need to ask, am I a worker or am I one of the reasons the "workers are few"?

copyrighted by BLS

It Just Takes a Little

2009-02-11T04:47:00.000-08:00

How would we respond when asked about what we really believe? Whether we realize it or not, the Lord is posing the question to us daily.

Matthew 9:28-30 says, "When He had gone indoors, the blind men came to Him and He asked them, "Do you believe that I am able to do this?" "Yes, Lord," they replied. Then He touched their eyes and said, "According to your faith will it be done to you"; and their sight was restored. NIV

What do we believe the Lord can do for us? What do we seek? Do we really think He can do it? Are we holding back from allowing the Lord to work mightily in our lives because we won't walk in faith in what He is able to do for us? Faith does play a part in what the Lord will do for us. Even if it's a little, let's choose to walk in it today.

copyrighted by BLS

Follow Today

2009-02-10T04:31:00.000-08:00

Do we come when He calls? How do we respond when the Lord calls out to us?

Matthew 9:9 says, "As Jesus went on from there, He saw a man named Matthew sitting at the tax collector's booth, "Follow me," He told him, and Matthew got up and followed him." NIV

There's no explanation. Matthew knew how was calling out to him, and he responded. Are we responding when the Lord calls out to us? May we got up where we are and follow.

Who is This Man?

2009-02-09T04:16:00.000-08:00

The scene has been set. A man unable to walk is brought to Jesus for healing. Among the observers are those not open to the truth but wanting to trap Jesus. What are we doing when we hear the Word preached or observe those around us?

Matthew 9:4-7 says, "Knowing their thoughts, Jesus said, "Why do you entertain evil thoughts in your hearts? Which is easier; to say 'Your sins are forgiven,' or to say, 'Get up and walk'? But so that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins...."Then He said to the paralytic, "Get up, take your mat and go home." And the man got up and went home." NIV

Jesus lets them know that not only does He know their thoughts, but He knows that they are evil. In order to prove his authority to forgive, He physically heals the man as well. When we observe the unusual, what is our attitude?

copyrighted by BLS

Give it to Jesus

2009-02-08T04:36:00.000-08:00

Matthew 8:26 says, "And He (Jesus) saith unto them, "Why are ye fearful, O ye of little faith?" Then He arose, and rebuked the winds and the sea; and there was a great calm." KJV

Certainly our Savior would prefer that despite what is happening around us that we'd trust Him fully. He doesn't want us to be overcome with fear. He wants to overcome our fears with faith.

However, we are told that Jesus rebuked the winds and the sea, not the fearful disciples. He points out that He sees their fear and the lack of faith, but then He dispels what is causing them to feel fearful. He doesn't say to "Buck up and take it." He sees what is causing the anxiety and removes the obstacle from their lives.

The Lord wants us to carry all our fears to Him. With what little faith we have, He wants us to cry out to Him. He wants us to know that He has the power to remove all fears from our hearts and lives. Despite what is happening around us, let's trust Him today.

copyrighted by BLS

Believe and Come

2009-02-07T04:40:00.000-08:00

We all have times in our lives when we wonder what the Lord's desire and will for our lives are. We know He is able to do anything, but we are unsure of what He wants to do.

In Matthew 8:2-3 we see a man in that same state, "A man with leprosy came and knelt before Him and said, "Lord, if you are willing, you can make me clean." Jesus reached out His hand and touched the man. "I am willing." He said, "Be clean!" Immediately he was cured of his leprosy. NIV

Like the man with leprosy, we need to come. We need to seek the Lord and His power to heal us whether it's spiritual, physically, or emotionally. For some healing comes immediate, but for others, it doesn't. No matter the timing, we need to acknowledge and come to the true Healer in life. We proclaim our belief when we come.

copyrighted by BLS

We Choose the End

2009-02-06T04:45:00.000-08:00

Matthew 7:26-27 reminds us of a choice we have to make when hearing God's truthful Words given to us, "But everyone who hears these words of Mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash." NIV

We don't have to obey. We can choose to do whatever we like when God's Word is spoken to us. It won't keep the storms of life that come away. However, we are foolish to think that life will be better when it's done our way instead of God's. A life lived void of the submission to the Lord is a life headed for disaster. In time, everything catches up with us, and we're left with a mess to clean up.

God's Word is offered to all. Storms in life will come to all. What happens through those storms are our choice. What result do we want in the end?

copyrighted by BLS

True Wisdom

2009-02-05T04:42:00.000-08:00

Do we want to be wise? Do we want to do what the Lord desires? Is seeking the Lord's will for our lives the most important thing on our agenda each day?

Matthew 7:24-25 reminds about where wisdom truly comes. "Therefore everyone who hears these words of Mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock." NIV

It's a given. Storms come in life. However, the Lord says we will make it through anything ifwe obey Him. It's not enough to hear the Lord's Words. There is wisdom in submission to the Lord. How wise are we looking today?

copyrighted by BLS

Two Paths

2009-02-04T05:01:00.000-08:00

So often in life, we wish to take the easy road. It seems to get us where we want to be with less pain and struggle along the way. Would we ever purposely select the more difficult path up the mountain if we knew there was an easier way to get us there?

Matthew 7:13-14 tells us, "Enter the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it." NIV

Two gates. Two choices. The easy road leads to destruction and the hard road leads to life. Sadly, we are told that few find the narrow way. All to often the easy way is selected and the promise for that choice is destruction.

Following Jesus and allowing Him to change our lives completely, isn't easy. It means surrender and submission. It means giving up our "rights" that we think we're entitled to and obeying the Lord fully in all things.

What path are we choosing today? Remember, there are two choices and only one truly leads to life.

copyrighted by BLS

Trust Him Anyway

2009-02-03T04:20:00.000-08:00

What do we think about the Lord? It's so easy to praise Him, thank Him, seek Him, and love Him when all seems right in the world and our lives. However, what do we really think? What happens when nothing is going right?

Matthew 7:11 says, "If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good gifts to them that ask Him?" KJV

We're by no means the perfect parent and when we are right in our hearts and minds, there is no good thing that we wouldn't want to do for our children. When we say "no" there is a good reason that maybe they can't or won't see, but we know we must withhold it. If it's good, there isn't anything a perfect and holy Father wouldn't give to us. If He says "no" we must trust that there is a valid reason for His answer.

What are we thinking when it seems He is withholding good? Do we get angry or do we try to understand and trust?

copyrighted by BLS

Check This Out

2009-02-02T04:37:00.000-08:00

I wanted you to know about this publication I'm a part of called Serious.LifeMagazine. They just published the February issue
today, and I am in their Featured Blog Directory. It's a very high
quality magazine... you'll really like it. (In their blog directory, you will find me listed there.)

The magazine includes a lot of great content from bloggers you'll
appreciate, as well as great features, photos and other content.

The magazine is owned and published by a family who have seven
kids, three adopted and one who has Leukemia (www.riggsfamilyblog.com). The magazine
gives away a bunch of ads to charities and
ministries. Besides great articles on interesting people, there is
a lot about family, adoption, personal finance, spiritual life,
humor... all sorts of "life" topics.

Again, the subscription is free, and I know you'll enjoy the
magazine, so take a minute to check it out and sign up to get future
issues. www.seriouslifemagazine.com

To Speak or Not?

2009-02-02T04:28:00.000-08:00

No matter what, should we tell it like it is to all we meet? So often people feel that truth is truth, just speak it.

However, Matthew 7:6 reminds us that there are time to be cautious in our lives with God's Word. Jesus tells us to "Give not that which is holy unto the dogs, neither cast ye your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn again and rend you." KJV

There are times we must withhold from speaking out. The Spirit must be allowed to direct us when giving what is holy and precious would be not only trampled, but used to attack us. So often there are those who will take God's word and twist it for their own perverse purpose. The Lord warns us to be on guard for this and to withhold.

Father, fill us with Your wisdom, enabling us to know when to speak and when not to speak. Amen.

Plank or Speck?

2009-02-01T04:33:00.000-08:00

Often times people will say, "Don't judge me." Used out of context, it seems that is what the Scriptures teach. However, with close evaluation, we're able to see that Jesus is concerned about those judging the words and actions of others regarding the very things that they are doing.

Slowly and carefully examine the words and Jesus' instructions in Matthew 7:1-5, "Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use it, it will be measured to you. Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, "Let me take the speck out of your eye, " when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? Pay close attention to the next set of words, because they are key to the understanding of judging here: You hypocrite, FIRST take the plank out of your own eye, AND THEN you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye." NIV

With a plank in my eye, we're no use to our brother. However, with no plank, we're to help remove the speck from our brother's eye. If there is no plank present, we're told to help remove the speck. Let's examine our eyes and see whether we are bearing a plank or speck and do accordingly...removing or allowing something to be removed.

God's Gracious Gems

Beyond What We Can Do!!

Sweet Rest....AHHH!

For Our Comfort

His Wounds...Our Healing!!!

Focus!!

A Change in Us

Why Christmas?

Presence!!

Three Instructions

For Others Benefits

Reconcile

To The Lord

One in the Same

Others Before Self!!

Eat Well

Cross Over...

Give it Up!!

Him In Us

Pleasing...

Our Focus

Give It Up!!

Where is the Focus?

Children....

What Does the Lord See?

Priorities??!!

Want to Know

How Much Faith?

How's Your House Standing?

Do Tell....

Welcome?

Can You See?

Where are the Harvesters?

Who We Listening To?

Know Who You Are!

He Will Do It!

Identification and Instructions

What Are We Doing Today?

You've Got to Ask

For Others Only

Come Alone

Exposure Comes

Put It Away

What's It About?

What are You Considering?

Watch and Pray

Caught...

Resurrection Sunday!

Good News

The Cross Means What?

Are You Ready?

Submission No Matter What?

Ready to Go Yet?

Serving Others

Where Do We Spend our Time?

It Can Come

**Spring Break**

Children and Jesus

Look Up not In

Choose Today...

Wait and See

Words and Their Effects

We Have It All...

Take the Woe Seriously!

Our Lives

Good Comes

Just Takes a Little

Beyond This Life

Receive a Filling

Transformation is His Will

What's Coming Out?

No Need to Fear

In Christ There is Hope

The Thoughts and Heart

Take a Step

Are We Really Hearing?

What are You Choosing?

Do Good

Simply Come

Extending Grace

Spring Break