06/19/09 John 10:1-11

Write the verse that speaks to you.

SCRIPTURE - "I tell you the truth, the man who does not enter the sheep pen by the gate, but climbs in by some other way, is a thief and a robber. The man who enters by the gate is the shepherd of his sheep. The watchman opens the gate for him, and the sheep listen to his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. When he has brought out all his own, he goes on ahead of them, and his sheep follow him because they know his voice. But they will never follow a stranger; in fact, they will run away from him because they do not recognize a stranger's voice." Jesus used this figure of speech, but they did not understand what he was telling them.
Therefore Jesus said again, "I tell you the truth, I am the gate for the sheep. All who ever came before me were thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not listen to them. I am the gate; whoever enters through me will be saved. He will come in and go out, and find pasture. The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.
"I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. The hired hand is not the shepherd who owns the sheep. So when he sees the wolf coming, he abandons the sheep and runs away. Then the wolf attacks the flock and scatters it. The man runs away because he is a hired hand and cares nothing for the sheep.
"I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me— just as the Father knows me and I know the Father—and I lay down my life for the sheep. I have other sheep that are not of this sheep pen. I must bring them also. They too will listen to my voice, and there shall be one flock and one shepherd. The reason my Father loves me is that I lay down my life—only to take it up again. No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down and authority to take it up again. This command I received from my Father."
At these words the Jews were again divided. Many of them said, "He is demon-possessed and raving mad. Why listen to him?"
But others said, "These are not the sayings of a man possessed by a demon. Can a demon open the eyes of the blind?"

OBSERVATION: The key part to me of the verses I have higlighted above is that Christ is the gate. Christ does not close us in the pen to be caught or killed as theives or preditors would, or that we are locked out from the rest of the flock. Those that go through the gate, that is Christ, have freedom and protection.

APPLICATION: We are not restricted by being Christians, we are free by being Christians.

PRAYER: Lord, thank you keeping us safe from preditors and theives. Keep us close to your voice so that we can hear and see danger when it approaches.

YES: I am comforted by being a Christian that is free.

06/18/09 Romans 12:9-21

Which verse speaks to you?

SCRIPTURE - Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with God's people who are in need. Practice hospitality.
Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.
Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody. 1f it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: "It is mine to avenge; I will repay,"says the Lord. On the contrary: "If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head." Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. (NIV)

OBSERVATION - The guide for relationships with love. It appears to me to be straight forward, with little room for interpretation.

APPLICATION - In order to follow the items above, it's important to keep the Lord close to your heart in prayer. Knowing your own feelings and knowing what your "buttons" are that people can push to get a reaction will help you keep the negative responses supressed. Don't allow others to affect your emotions, but take them to the Lord in prayer and then act in the way that Christ would want you to.

PRAYER - Lord, forgive me for not teating everyone with love and respect. Be with me to see you in everyone regardless of how they live. Keep my responses that of love instead of knee jerk reacations that would not reflect the love of Jesus Christ.

6/17/09 2 Corinthians 6:2

SCRIPTURE - For he says, "In the time of my favor I heard you, and in the day of salvation I helped you. I tell you, now is the time of God's favor, now is the day of salvation. (niv)



OBSERVATION - God is always with us, talking to us, and gently guiding us. He doesn't go away when we mess up, no matter how big the mess is.



APPLICATION - This verse reminds me of the Footprints in the Sand poem. If you haven't read it, take the time in quiet meditation to read it and reflect of your own footprints along life's journey. I remember those times myself that I thought for sure that I am truly on my own here in this big world. If I wanted to be successful, I would need to do it myself with positive thinking and mental imaging. (Does that sound like a lot of self help books?) It didn't take me long to realize that it is the Lord that provides everything including that small one dollar tip. The Lord has always found favor in all of his children, it's just a matter of if we walk with him.

PRAYER - Lord thank you for being there for me every day. Thank you for all the blessings you have provided me, from my wife, to my pastor, to my friends and to all the blessings that you know I need. Thank you Lord.

YES - I do not walk this journey alone. Grab someone along the way and show them how satisfying it is to walk with the Lord.

6/16/09 Mark 4:35-41

Select the verse that speaks to you.

Scripture - That day when evening came, he said to his disciples, lets go over to the other side. Leaving the crowd behind, they took him along, just as he was, in the boat. There were also other boats with him. A furious squall came up, and the waves broke over the boat, so that it was nearly swamped. Jesus was in the stern, sleeping on a cushion. The disciples woke him and said to him, Teacher don't you care if we drown? He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, quiet! be still! Then the wind died down and it was completely calm. He said to the disciples, why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith? They were terrified and asked each other, who is this? Even the wind and the waves obey him! (NIV)

Observation - The disciples lost touch with their faith when the storm surrounded them. Jesus was asleep. How could anyone sleep through this? Did he not care that they were about to die?

Jesus was aware, but not concerned. He gave the word to stop and be calm, and it happened.

Application - I can relate with the disciples. When the skies are blue and things are peaceful, my faith is strong. (so I think) Then I feel as though things are crashing in around me and I put more faith in myself to get out of the situation than trusting that Jesus will calm things. Is this a lack of faith or fear and natural instinct that swells the fight or flight reaction? I believe it is both lack of faith and natural instincts that draw us away from Christ. In the midst of the reactions that are natural within us when things go wrong, we need to remember to pray and thank God for this experience that will make us stronger in our faith.

Prayer - Lord, thank you for the times that you challenge me and my faith. Draw me closer every day that I will remember to pray and talk to you when the skies get dark and stormy.

Yes - In everything (good and bad) give thanks to the Lord.

06/15/09 Psalm 78:1-8

Pick the verse that speaks to you

SCRIPTURE - O my people, hear my teaching; listen to the words of my mouth. I will open my mouth in parables, I will utter hidden things, things for of old what we have heard and known, what our fathers have told us. We will not hide from their children; we will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the LORD, his power, and the wonders he has done. He decreed statutes for Jacob and established the law in Israel, which he commanded out forefathers to teach their children, so the next generation would know them, even the children yet to be born, and they in turn would tell their children. Then they would put their trust in God and would not forget his deeds but would keep his commands. They would not be like their forefathers - a stubborn and rebellious generation, whose hearts were not loyal to God, whose spirits were not faithful to him. (NIV)

OBSERVATION - We are told in the scripture above to listen, learn and share with following generations praiseworthy deeds of the LORD in his power and the wonders he has done.

APPLICATION - First step is listen and learn. Take the time to study scripture, attend Bible studies and time of fellowship to learn how the LORD has done wonders worthy of praise in the past and in the present. Share what you have heard and learned with others. Live in the praises of the Lord and teach our children, so that they will do the same in their life.

One of my favorite examples would be saying grace. My mother and father taught me our family prayer from my maternal grandparents. In turn we have taught our children our prayer, and they have taught others that have shared a meal with us. The best thing is they do it on their own without being prodded by their parents.

PRAYER - Lord, thank you for giving me the opportunity to share what I have learned about your wonders and the people you have placed in my life to share my experiences of you, with.

YES - Sometimes I take for granted the freedom that I have to talk about my faith. I will take every opprotunity to share how the Lord has touched my life, in celebration of this freedom.

6/13/09 1 Samuel 10:17-24

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) speaking to you)
They inquired further of the LORD, “Has the man come here yet?” So the LORD said. “Behold,, he is hiding himself by the baggage.”
OBSERVATION
This passage described how Saul is appointed by God to be king. Saul is hiding in the baggage when he is found and appointed.
APPLICATION
You can run but you can not hide should be the title of this passage. Could this not be true for times in our life. We think we can hide from God but if God appoints us for a task we must not hide for we will be found. But what is more if we are appointed by God for a task we will be given what it is needed for the task.
PRAYER:
Lord forgive me for when in fear I have hid from your work and calling. Pull me from my hiding place and let me know you have equipped me for any task I am sent in your name.
YES:
I will not hide in the baggage.

6/12/09 Numbers 13:25-14:9

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) speaking to you)
The people who live in the land are strong and the cities are fortified and very large; moreover, we saw the descendants of Anak there. (Numbers 13:28 NAS)
OBSERVATION
When the ancient Israelites made it to the promised land they sent spies to scout the land out. The scouts report was grim. There were fortified cities and giants living in the land. The promised land looked a little less than promising.
APPLICATION:
The spies saw how the odds were against them as humans and neglected to hear how God had promised to be with them. God had been with the for 40 years in the desert, seems they think God might neglect them now.
We do the same. We look into situations and see difficulties and problems. We forget the God who has been with us in the difficulties of the past is the same God who will be with in the difficulties in the future. In other words we look for difficulties and not possibilities.
PRAYER:
Lord teach me to have faith in you in all situations. Let me know that you are the possibility the overcomes all difficulty.
YES:
I will seek the promised possibilities in life

6/11/09 Ephesians 4:31-5:2

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) speaking to you)
Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children and walk in love, just as Christ also loved you, and gave Himself up for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God as a fragrant aroma. (Ephesians 5:1-2 NAS)
OBSERVATION:
This is a call to accept our inheritance of love by acting in love of God as shown through Jesus Christ.
APPLICATION:
To “imitate” God means to pattern our life after the life and teachings of Jesus. While we can not attain complete imitation we can always strive to live a life which an offering to God. This gives thanks for what God did for us through Jesus Christ.
PRAYER:
Lord I wish to be an imitator of you. Forgive me when I have conformed myself to the influences of this world. Teach me to live in your love.
YES:
I will be an imitator of God through the teachings and love of Jesus Christ.

6/10/09 Psalm 28:6-9

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share a verse or two)
Blessed be the Lord, Because He has heard the voice of my supplication. (Psalm 28:6 NAS)
OBSERVATION:
The Lord hears our prayers.
APPLICATION:
Does this mean that the Lord answers our prayers in a way we think…no. This means the Lord hears our prayers, loves us and is ALWAYS there for us. Therefore we must give thanks as no one in this world can give us this promise.
PRAYER:
Lord, thank you for you hear my prayers when I rise in the morning and when I lay my head down at night. You are loving me when I don’t show you love, love my neighbor or love myself. Thank you for this gift.
YES:
I will love God and tell God with continuous praise and prayer.

6/9/09 Philippians 3:10-16

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) speaking to you)
I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 3:14 NAS)
OBSERVATION:
We have been given the goal of perfection. We are not able to obtain this goal on our own in our human condition. But the goal is in the life, ministry, death and resurrection of Christ.
APPLICATION:
The goal of perfection is not possible alone we must fix our eyes on Christ. To this we must always be looking “up”. We must not look back upon our mistakes (or mistakes of others). With God’s great help we can always spiral toward perfection.
PRAYER:
Lord thank you for forgiving me of my imperfections and giving me the goal of your perfection. Lead me always toward that goal.
YES:
I will look up!

6/8/09 Romans 8:35-39

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) which is speaking to you)
For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, for angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depths, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. (Romans 8:38-39 NAS)
OBSERVATION:
This passage from the Apostle Paul is most often read at the service of Death and Resurrection as it reminds we are never (NEVER) separated from God’s love through Jesus Christ.
APPLICATION:
So often it seems we walk alone and separated from the Lord. But here it is the great promise that we are never separated. This love came and lived with us in this world. This Love took the power of sin to the cross so we could know we are never separated. What is the application? Go and share this Good News!!!
PRAYER:
Lord thank you for knocking down all that might come between us. Teach me and use me to share your Good News.
YES
I will share the Love of God in Christ Jesus!

6/6/09 Matthew 7:7-11

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) which are speaking to you)
“Ask, and it shall be given to you; seek, and you shall find, knock., and it shall be opened to you. “For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him, who knocks it shall be opened.
OBSERVATION:
From the mouth of Jesus we are given great promise. The Lord is ready to hear from us, know us and love us. All we must do is initiate the relationship.
APPLICATION:
This is about asking for a relationship with the Lord. It is as simple as being in prayer. This relationship allows us to begin to know what we really need in this life. What do we really need in this life… a complete and total relationship with the Lord.
PRAYER:
Lord, thank you for being closer than my next breath. Thank you for being there it hear all my wants and desires. But mostly thank you for your love.
YES
I will always seek relationship with the Lord.

6/5/09 Acts 1:1-8

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) which are speaking to you)
You shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be My witnesses both in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and event to the remotest par of the earth. (Acts 1:8 NAS)
OBSERVATION:
This verse is so similar to what we understand as the Great Commission (Matthew 20:19-20). We are given the gift and power of the Holy Spirit to share with all the world.
APPLICATION:
Many of us will never travel the breadth and length of the world. But we all reach many different people through out the day. We are called to carry the Good News of Salvation and love through Jesus Christ everywhere we go. There is no telling how far it will go from there.
PRAYER:
Lord thank you for the gift and power of your Holy Spirit. Use it within me to share your Good News of love and salvation.
YES:
I will share the Good News everywhere I go.

6/4/09 John 12:44-50

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) which is speaking to you)
I have come as light into the world, that everyone who believes in Me may not remain in darkness. And if anyone hears My sayings, and does not keep them, I do not judge him; for I did not come to judge the world, but to save the world. (John 12:46-47 NAS)
OBSERVATION:
Jesus is the light of the world. His teachings and life shows us how we can live into the light of God through Jesus Christ.
APPLICATION:
Some may worry and fret about judgment (and maybe rightly so). But Jesus is not calling us here to live in dread of judgment but to live in the light of His love that leads to life (salvation). We can live in light by living into the example and teachings of Jesus.
PRAYER:
Lord, thank you for your light in my world. Let me always follow your light through the dark paths of this world.
YES
I will seek the light of God through Jesus Christ

6/3/09 1 Timothy 6:17-19

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) which are speaking to you)
Instruct those who are rich in this present world not to be conceited or to fix their hope on tier uncertainty of riches, but on God who richly supplies us with all things to enjoy. (1 Timothy 6:17 NAS)
OBSERVATION:
Just as in the ancient world there are people who could be described as the haves and the have nots. The “haves” sometimes (if not often) find source of comfort in monetary success. It becomes source of power and God is forgotten.
APPLICATION:
It might be easy to think of the “haves” in a pejorative sense. The “have nots” might be tempted to think those people deserve unhappiness and strife because they rely on earthly resources. But this is not the case we are called to share how God is the true source of happiness and salvation.
PRAYER:
Lord forgive me when I have relied on my own abilities or gifts rather than how you are my source of happiness and salvation.
YES:
I will teach all that God is the true source of riches.

6/2/09 Luke 6:7-36

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) which are speaking to you)
Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful (Luke 6:36 NAS)
OBSERVATION:
The complete passage is from Luke’s account of the Sermon on the Mount. This is the blessed and the woes passage. We are called to remember that God is merciful and we should be as well.
APPLICATION:
To be merciful means more than taking care of the least among. That is vitally important. But to be merciful also means to have a forgiving heart to those who we think have wronged us in the past. This can be much more difficult.
PRAYER:
Lord forgive me for when I have sinned against you and neighbor. Teach me your merciful ways so I can share your love in this world.
YES:
I will strive to be mercy filled.

6/1/09 Isaiah 55:6-7

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) which are speaking to you)
Seek the LORD while He may be found; call upon Him while He is near, let the wicked forsake his way and the unrighteous man his thoughts and let him return to the LORD, and He will have compassion on him; and to uor God, for He will abundantly pardon. (Isaiah 55:6-7 NAS)
OBSERVATION:
The Lord is always near and waiting on us to return to that fount of divine love and grace.
APPLICATION:
I must always keep my mind and heart open to the presence of the Lord. It is the presence of the Lord that leads me back to the promise of salvation.
PRAYER:
Lord, I give thank that you are closer than my next breath. Lead me in your paths of righteousness.
YES:
I will seek the Lord.

5/30/09 1 Thessalonians 5:11-21

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) are speaking to you).
Therefore encourage one another, and build up one another, just as you also are doing. (1 Thessalonians 5:11 NAS)
OBSERVATION:
This is a description of what the members of the body of Christ are to do with each other… encourage each other and build each other up.
APPLICATION:
To encourage one another we need to know what the wants and needs of each other are. This takes communication and acceptance. Listening is key to encouraging others.
PRAYER:
Lord, I give thanks for the ministry you have placed in my heart. Teach me to hear the ministry you have put in other people’s hearts so that I may encourage and support them.
YES:
I will listen to the wants and needs of others.

5/29/09 Psalm 23

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) which are speaking to you)
Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil; for, Thou are with me; Thy rod and Thy staff, they comfort me. ( Psalm 23:4 NAS)
OBSERVATION:
These are those ancient comforting words often know as the Shepherd’s Psalm. It is full of comfort in times of trouble.
APPLICATION:
This verse is not “when” I walk through the valley of the shadow of death. But even though I walk through the valley. This means we are walking today in the valley. This life would be hard if we did not remember God was there with rod and staff to comfort us.
PRAYER:
Lord thank you for your comfort and guidance. Teach me to follow your ways as I walk through this valley called life.
YES:
I will seek the guidance of the Lord.

5/28/09 Mark 1:9-11

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) which are speaking to you)
And it came about in those days that Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee, and was baptized by John in the Jordan. And immediately coming up out of the water, He say the heavens opening and the Spirit like a dove descending upon Him, and a voice came out of the heavens, “ Thou, art My beloved Son, in Thee I am well-pleased” (Mark 1:9-11 NAS)
OBSERVATION:
This is the description of the baptism of Jesus by His relative John. The divintity of Jesus is clearly described as God’s voice booms out of the heavens “This is my Son”.
APPLICATION:
We must remember the divinity of Jesus but never forget how He took our divinity. Jesus humbled himself even to the baptism of death so we would know not only our forgiveness but that we are called to live his teachings. We are called to love God and Love neighbor through word and action.
PRAYER:
Lord thank you for taking my sin to the cross. Teach me to respond by always loving you and taking care of my neighbor in love.
YES:
I will praise the Lord.

5/27/09 Exodus 2:11-15; 3:1-12

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) which are speaking to you):
Therefore, come now, and I will send you to Pharaoh. So that you may bring My people, the sons of Israel, out of Egypt. (Exodus 3:10 NAS)
OBSERVATION
The first set of verses describe how Moses first observes and reacts to man’s inhumanity to man. The second describes the Moses encounter with God through the burning bush. God has seen the evidence of man’s inhumanity to man and send Moses (a man) to work for the good of God.
APPLICATION:
I am called to see the examples of man’s inhumanity to man in our world. But I am also called to hear God’s call to work for good in our world. I can find hope that as God states in verse 12, “Certainly I will be with you, and this shall be with you…” that I am not alone.
PRAYER:
Lord forgive us when we through action and word promote man’s inhumanity to man in this world. Open my ears to hear your call to help right the wrongs of my world through your love.
YES;
I will help the downtrodden.

5/26/09 Isaiah 58:6-12

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) which are speaking to you)
And the LORD will continually guide you, and satisfy you the desires of the afflicted, then your light will rise in darkness and your gloom will become like midday. (Isaiah 58: 10 NAS)
OBSERVATION:
The passage calls the reader to be in service. It reminds us that we are called by God to take care of the least among us.
APPLICATION:
There is great promise in the verse and passage. Not only are the needs of others attended unto but the care provider grows in faith and light of the Lord. As we give to others we grow in our desire to give to others. In the process the light of the LORD continues to grow brighter.
PRAYER:
Lord open eyes to the needy which surround me and teach me to use the talents you have given.
YES:
I will help a neighbor in need

5/23/09 Luke 24:13-35

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) which speaks to you)
And their eyes were opened and they recognized Him, (Luke 24:31a NAS)
OBSERVATION:
This is from the Emmaus Road passage. Jesus has died on the cross and risen from the grave. The disciples confused return to their homes. They do not recognize Jesus walking along with them. They tell the story of Jesus and after eating with Him, He is revealed.
APPLICATION:
Sometimes we walk along in life knowing the story of Jesus but not recognizing His powerful presence in our lives. However, we are more apt to know His presence when we share His story. It not only give hope to others but gives us life and vision to ourselves.
PRAYER:
Lord thank you for your story in my life. Thank you that your death I have life and through your teaching I have life (today) with you. Use me to tell your story and truth to others.
YES:
I will share the Good News of Jesus Christ.

5/22/09 1 Peter 1:13-16

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) which is speaking to you)
Therefore, gird your minds for action, keep sober in spirit, fix your hope completely on the grace to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. (1Peter 1:13 NAS)
OBSERVATION:
Jesus is being revealed to us and will some glorius day be fully revealed to all. In the mean time we are to be ready to serve and work for his glorous cause, that being the call to love God and love neighbor.
APPLICATION:
We are called to love God and love neighbor. In the process of doing these Jesus is revealed. However we need to be ever ready to serve and do for the LOrd. Sometimes we are called to share God’s love with people do not necessarily like. Sometimes we are called to serve neighbors we don’t think deserve our help. To bad, that is what we are called to do. The Good News doing so reveals Christ to us and in us.
PRAYER
Lord forgive me when I have not loved you or my neighbor. Strengthen me to serve you by serving those around me.
YES
I will serve God by serving others.

5/21/09 James 2:14-26

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) which speak to you)
For just as the body without the spirit is dead, so also faith without works is dead. (James 2:26 NAS)
OBSERVATION:
This passage is often identified as the “faith without works is dead”. Works does not necessarily build faith. Works are a response to faith.
APPLICATION:
I am reminded of the power of doing. Faith is something we have to work on through prayer, Scripture study and experiences. For example, I am reminded how blessed I am but it is not a blessing unless I take care of the needs of someone else.
PRAYER:
Lord, thank you for loving me and giving me ways to share this love with others by words or deeds so others would know your love.
YES:
I will share my faith with others by word and deed

5/20/09 Psalm 103:1-5

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) which speak to you)
Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, Bless His holy name (Psalm 103:1 NAS)
OBSERVATION:
This is a call to prayer and life. This psalm, like many, are attributed to the pen of David. David was a powerful man who could have thought his power came from himself. When David thought this he faltered. When David recognized where his strength came from and gave thanks to God he succeeded.
APPLICATION: I need to bless the Lord all that is within me. I don’t not need to look at the successes of life without seeing the hand of God.
PRAYER:
Lord, I am blessed beyond what I deserve. Your hand has ever been on my life.
YES:
I will bless the LORD

5/19/09 Deuteronomy 6:4-9

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) which speak to you)
Hear, O Isreal, The LORD is our God, the LORD is one! You shall love the LORD with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. (Deuteronomy 6:4-5 NAS)
OBSERVATION:
This is from what is known as the Shema. This was a daily prayer of the ancient Hebrews. The prayer is also a call to live a holistic life with God.
APPLICATION:
Loving God with heart, soul and might is not easy. This is full time living with God. This means we are to love God with all we have all the time.
However there is good news here. Sometimes our heart may be sick or sad or our soul bruised. In these times loving God has to be done through actions (with our might). I understanding loving God with all might to mean loving God by doing acts of mercy.
God always will give us a way to show love.
PRAYER:
Lord thank you for loving me and giving me ways to love you with everything I have.
YES
I will love the LOrd with all might heart, soul, and mind.

5/18/09 Psalm 104

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) which speak to you)
May the glory of the Lord endure forever; may the Lord rejoice in his works. (Psalm 104:31 Holman)
OBSERVATION:
This is from a psalm that extols the glory and power of God’s creation. The psalm describes how God provides and protects. All of Creation is to proclaim God’s glory and power.
APPLICATION:
Sometimes it is hard to see God’s creative power and glory in the midst of humanities’ destruction of the planet. We must show our respect and thanksgiving that we have been given all we need in this life through the natural resources God so generously granted.
As individuals we must give glory by recycling, reducing and re-using the resources we have been given. We must also require this of all human institutions.
PRAYER:
Lord the heavens and all of creation speaks of your glory. Forgive us for our miss-use and abuse. Teach us to give glory by taking care of what you have given.
YES:
I will recycle, reduce and re-use (not as a political correctness statement) as a way of giving glory to God.

5/16/09 1 John 1:1-10

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) which speak to you)
But if we walk in the light as He Himself is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus His Son cleanses us from all sin (1 John 1:7 Holman)
OBSERVATION:
We have a fellowship or relationship with God through Jesus Christ which gives life to our souls and breathes life into the community of Christ.
APPLICATION:
With Christ as my light I can walk with the Lord all may days. I am also able to live in harmony with my sisters and brothers even when times are tough. This light of Christ in my life not only lights my path but gives light to others.
PRAYER:
Lord you are my light. Please shine through me so that others do not see me at all. But they may see only you and gain fellowship with you.
YES:
I will let my light shine.

5/15/09 John 14:15-27

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) which speak to you)
Peace I leave with you. My peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Your heart must not be troubled or fearful. (John 14:25 Holman) OBSERVATION:
This is from the mouth of Jesus. Jesus who is love and peace gives what we can not manufacture; peace and love.
APPLICATION:
Peace and love are hard commodities to come by. We might strive for world peace, family peace or even inner peace. But they won’t come until we know we have God, peace through Christ in our lives. We can not work for it; peace is given. We must accept peace and live.
PRAYER:
Lord, thank you for your peace. Teach me to accept this gift and use it to share it with others.
YES:
I will share God’s peace through Christ in a very world that does not know the peace of Christ.

5/14/09 Isaiah 55:1-3

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) which speak to you)
Come everyone who is thirsty, come to the waters; and you without money, come, buy, and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without cost! (Isaiah 55:1 Holman)
OBSERVATION:
The grammatical markings are not mistake. This passage is about joy!!! What a joy it must have been to hear that in a time of thirst and hunger God is providing.
APPLICATION:
Even today God is providing. For all who hunger and thirst for life all has been given through Christ, who paid the cost for us. Thanks be to GOD!!!!
PRAYER:
Lord thank you for taking care of me and this world. Lord, may I ever feast at your table and know your love.
YES:
I will share the Good News of Jesus Christ to those who hunger and thirst for good news.

5/13/09 1 Corinthians 13:4-7

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) which speak to you)
Love is patient, love is kind Love does not envy; is not boastful, is not conceited does not act improperly; is not selfish, is not provoked, does not keep a record of wrongs; find no joy in unrighteousness but rejoices in truth; bears all thing, hopes all things, endures all things. (1 Corinthians 13:4-7 Holman)
OBSERVATION:
This is from what is often called the Love chapter. It describes and personifies the gift of God’s gift of love.
APPLICATION:
Through love we can do things totally impossible on our own. Only through love can we forget when others have wronged us. We must strive to live in this love. When boastful or acting improperly we must remember are not living in love. When times are tough we must remember to live in love. I always read this passage remembering that God is love.
PRAYER:
Gracious loving Lord thank you for your abiding and life giving love. Let me live into it so I may share it.
YES:
I will share the love of God with others.

5/12/09 Daniel 1 7-17

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) which speak to you)
But Daniel made up his mind that he would not defile himself with the king’s choice food or with wine which he drank; so he sought permission from the commander of the officials that he might not defile himself. (Daniel 1:8 NAS)
OBSERVATION:
Daniel had a choice. He could have eaten the finest food from the king’s table or eat what scripture and tradition taught.
APPLICATION:
We have temptations that are thrust upon us. We can choice the easy (or rich) ways of life. They may not seem to bad or too much against God. We might even ask would God disapprove. But we should always strive to be diligence to what Scripture teaches and tradition instructs.
PRAYER:
Lord teach me to seek you will when I have to make decisions on my own. Let me rely on your guidance and not mine.
YES:
I will see God’s will not mine.

5/11/09 Philippians 2:12-18

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) which speak to you)
Do all things without grumbling and or disputing; so that you may prove yourself blameless and innocent children of God above reproach in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you appear as lights in the world (Philippians 2: 14-15 NAS)
OBSERVATION:
There is quite a bit of information and instruction here. There is the call to live a life with out grumbling and disputing which reminds we have a tendancy to lean toward those activities. This is also a reminder that the “world” is a place of evil influence and Christians are to live in a way that demonstrates the want and will of God.
APPLICATION:
We must always strive hard to live in Christian harmony with each other. This not only allows us to grow as Children of God but helps us show others God’s way and want for this world.
PRAYER:
Lord, help me to strive for harmony within the Christian family and show your love in the world.
YES:
I will strive to show God’s light in this world.

5/9/09 Mark 6:30-34

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) which are speaking to you)
And He said to them, “Come away by yourselves to a lonely place and rest a while” (Mark 6:31)
OBSERVATION:
Jesus and the disciples had been traveling and doing ministry for quite sometime. They were tired and in need of rest.
APPLICATION:
We run and rip trying to do all the right things. The week is filled by occupational obligations and the weekend is full of running. We need to hear this invitation to rest and be repaired in the Lord.
PRAYER:
Lord, slow me down. Lead me by your still waters so I may refreshed and repaired.
YES
I will rest in the Lord’s presence to day.

5/8/09 John 13:1-17

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) which speak to you)
If I then, the Lord and the Teacher, washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet (John 13:14 NAS)
OBSERVATION:
This is from John’s gospel description of the Last Supper. While John’s gospel does not give the description of the meal and its institution, the message of doing for others in humble service is described.
APPLICATION:
Jesus, my Lord and Savior humbled himself to the point of death on the Cross for me. I have learned the way and need of service to others through Jesus. Who am I to neglect my brothers and sisters in need.
PRAYER:
Lord, forgive me when speed and haste or selfish needs have prevented me to helping others. Teach me your ways so I can share your love.
YES:
I will help others during this day.

5/6/09 Galatians 6:1-5

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) which speak to you)
Bear one another’s burdens. And thus fulfill the law of Christ.
OBSERVATION:
This is another way to say love one another and to take care of each other.
APPLICATION:
Though we are called to take care of others, we must also take care of ourselves. Before we can carry another we must make sure we are strong enough. Searching the scriptures, prayer and self examination are key in taking care of ourselves.
PRAYER:
Lord let me find you in your Word, hear me when I pray and teach me ways I can grow stronger in you. So that I may take care of other in your name.
YES
I will help bear other’s burdens.

5/5/09 Matthew 6:9-13

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) which speak to you)
Give us this day our daily bread (Matthew 6:11 NAS)
OBSERVATION:
This is from the great Lord’s prayer. We often forget this was an instruction on how to pray. All that we need to know about prayer is in this prayer. The verse reminds us we can pray to God for anything…even our daily bread.
APPLICATION:
It is so important to pray this prayer every day. We need to exult God and give praise. We need God’s help to forgive others as we remember we have been forgiven. God will take care of us all we need to do is be in constant communication.
PRAYER:
Lord, hear my prayers and teach me to trust in your love.
YES:
I will be in constant communication.

5/4/09 Isaiah 49: 13-16

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) which speak to you)
But Zion said, “The Lord has forsaken me and the Lord has forgotten me.” Can a woman forget her nursing child, and have no compassion on the son of her womb? Even these may forget, but I will not forget you.
OBSERVATION:
The people have felt as if God had abandoned them. But the Scripture reminds God will not forget or abandon.
APPLICATION:
It may at times feel like God has abandoned when the trials and tribulations of life assault us. But if we love our children unconditionally how much more will God love us and never leave us.
PRAYER:
Lord, thank you for always being my comfort and my rock. May I always know I can turn to you.
YES:
I will seek the refuge of the Lord.

5/2/09 John 21:19-21

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) which speak to you)
Jesus therefore said to them again, “Peace be with youl as the Father has sent Me, I also send you” (John 21:19 NAS)
OBSERVATION:
Following the miracle of the resurrection, Jesus reassures His disciples that are receiving a peace they can not full understand (yet).
APPLICATION:
We have been given God’s peace through Jesus Christ. We should full accept and live into it. But we should also share it with others.
PRAYER:
Lord, thank you for your peace. Let me live into it with grace and thanksgiving.
YES:
I will share the Peace of Christ.
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5/1/09 Ruth 2:1-13

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) which speak to you)
May the Lord reward your work, and your wages be full from the Lord the God of Israel under whose wings you have come to see refuge. (Ruth 2:12 NAS)
OBSERVATION:
Ruth is rewarded for taking care of others in a time of grief.
APPLICATION:
Actions matter. When our actions demonstrate love we reflect God’s love to others.
PRAYER:
LORd than you for letting me use action to show your love to others.
YES:
I will show others Love

4/30/09 Psalm 23

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) which speak to you)
The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures; He lead me besides quiet waters. He restores my soul. He guides me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake (Psalm 23:1-3 NAS)
OBSERVATION:
The great shepherd’s psalm from the pen of David; listen to the promise and peace in these verses.
APPLICATION:
Ours is a hurried and hectic world. We don’t seek paths. We seek fast lanes. In the process we do not drink deep from the quieting waters of the Lord and do not receive the restoration of the soul. No wonder we are often a physically, emotionally and spiritually sick people.
PRAYER:
LORD slow me down. Your paths lay before me. Teach me to lie down and enjoy before I miss your restorative power.
YES
I will seek peace and quiet and get off the fast lane.

4/29/09 Isaiah 55:1-5)

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) which speak to you)
Why do you spend money for what is not bread, and your wages for what does not satisfy? Listen carefully to Me, and eats what is good, and delight yourself in abundance. (Isaiah 55:3 NAS)
OBSERVATION:
These questions get to the core of human nature. Immediate needs (or wants) often cloud the judgment.
APPLICATION
Even though these questions are thousands of years old, they are still relevant today. Why is good money spent on that which does not fully sustain or delight?
Perhaps we think we can solve our problems (or meet our needs) by ourselves. But that is not what God wants. God wants us to know we are cared for and loved if we would just sit down, relax and live in Divine Love.
PRAYER:
Lord forgive me for the speed at which I lead my life. Forgive me for chasing a dollar that satisfies for just a moment and missing your love that last for a life time.
YES:
I will seek that love that sustains for ever.

4/28/09 Psalm 139:1-12

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) which speak to you)
O Lord though has searched me and known me. Though dost know when I sit down and when I rise up; though dost understand from afar. (Psalm 139:1-2 NAS)
OBSERVATION:
The Lord knows us from the depths of our being. We are made and known more than a parent knows a child. The Psalmist also demonstrates how we can not go anywhere without being in the presence of the LOrd.
APPLICATION:
Without being too metaphysical this passage is less about geographical distance and more about mental and spiritual distance from God. I wonder if I spend enough time in silence with the Lord. I know in my heart I can not “escape” the LOrd. So I seek the companionship of others to keep from being silent. I will play my Christian music as I write and study the Word. But rarely do I seek silence…it is just to deafening.
PRAYER
Lord teach me to seek your presence and seek the silence to know it fully. Teach me to accept the full look at myself in silence and know I am never alone.
YES:
I will seek silence with the Lord.

4/27/09 Genesis 50:15-26

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) which speak to you)
“The blessing of your father have surpassed the blessings of my ancestors up to the utmost bound of the everlasting hill; May they be on the head of Joseph and on the crown of the one distinguished among his brothers” (Genesis 50:26 NAS)
OBSERVATION:
This verse is found near the end of the Book of Genesis and the story of Jacob ( Israel). It also close to the end of Jacob’s life. The passage is descriptions of the sons of Jacob. Joseph’s brothers thought he (Joseph) was favored by the father and jealous. Joseph was afforded great privilege as a young man (over his older brothers). But Joseph gets high praise.
APPLICATION:
The story of Joseph brings up several thoughts. Through the story of Joseph we learn perseverance in faith and the provision of the Lord to the faithful. The story of Joseph also reminds us of how God uses the least to do the most.
I wonder how many times I have sought counsel and company with those I thought powerful and missed guidance and companionship with true wisdom in those society deems the least.
PRAYER:
Lord forgive me when I have chose to evaluate others based on societal standards rather than yours.
YES:
I will see counsel and guidance in those society sees as “least”.

4/25/09 Genesis 9:14-15

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) which speak to you)
And it shall come about, 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 never again shall the waters become a flood to destroy all flesh.
OBSERVATION:
The sign if the rainbow reminds us of God’s promise to care and love us even in our fallen nature. The sign is not just a reminder of God’s covenant between God and the people; God makes this covenant with all living creatures. Once again humankind is part of creation.
APPLICATION:
One might be tempted to define the rainbow as scientific or meteorological event in the sky. But it is a reminder that only God could make something like this. If God is ready to make this promise for all of creation then I will do my part to share God’s love.
PRAYER:
O Lord thank you for your promises and love. Let me live into them with all my heart and soul.
YES:
I will be part of God’s creation and give praise.

4/24/09 Isaiah 43:1

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) which speak to you.)
But now, thus say the Lord, your Creator, O Jacob, and He who formed you, O Israel, do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are Mine! (Isaiah 43:1 NAS)
OBSERVATION:
God is speaking to Israel. But all of humanity is part of this story. Through the power of God we are all redeemed and we are never alone.
APPLICATION:
Sometimes when the trials and tribulations of life assault us it is tempting to cry out to God with fear. But I need not fear just as Jacob was formed and known in the womb so am I. God has redeemed me.
PRAYER:
Lord I thank you for being part of your great and wonderful creation. Just as you have created all things and care from them you created me and care for me. Thank you for me salvation.
YES
I will give thanks to God for my redemption.

4/23/09 Romans 8:5-11

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) which speak to you
For the mind set on the flesh is death, but the mind set on the Spirit is life and peace (Romans 8:6NAS)
OBSERVATION:
The Apostle Paul often talks about the 2 natures of the human. We have a good nature and a nature to bad. There is a cosmic struggle between the 2 natures. This could be understood as the struggle of understanding our free will.
APPLICATION:
Made for good by God and cursed with the fall I must struggle between the choices that lead me away from God and toward Death and the option to live in God’s Spirit with life and peace. This is a constant struggle, but I am never alone.
PRAYER:
Lord thank you for never leaving me alone in my nature. Pull me away from the darkness that pulls me away from you and lead me into your life and peace.
YES:
I strive to walk toward peace and life with Jesus.

4/22/09 Genesis 2:8-15

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) which speak to you)
Then the Lord God took the man and put him into the garden of Eden to cultivate it and keep it. (Genesis 2:15 NAS)
OBSERVATION:
This is from the “second” creation story, or the continuation of the creation story. I have never noticed the word “into”. This gives the message of total immersion, as if mankind was given not only the responsibility of tending and cultivating; but we are to become one with creation.
APPLICATION:
We are not to just be stewards of the earth or recipeants of this great gift of Creation. We are to be part of creation with the role of caring for all of creation.
PRAYER:
LOrd the heavens speak of your glory and all of creation show your majesty. Thank you for the examples of your power and love as scene in all of creation.
YES:
I will take better care of creation

4/21/09 Hebrews 12:4-11

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) which speak to you)
It is for discipline that you endure; God deals with you as with sons, for what son is there who his father does not discipline? (Hebrews 12:7 NAS).
OBSERVATION:
Discipline seems to be another word for hardships, trials or tribulation. Or it could mean times when we have willingly followed our own paths and had troubles. Whatever the interpretation God is always there with the love of a caring Father.
APPLICATION:
I must claim those times when my own choices have landed me in “hot water”. I must be trained by the experience without blaming God. I must remember God is with me, loving me at all time.
PRAYER:
Lord forgive me when I have boldly followed my own path. Teach me to rely on you and not just myself.
YES:
I will seek God’s guidance always.

4/20/09 Philippians 2:12-16

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) which speak to you)
Do all things without grumbling or disputing that you may prove yourselves to be blameless and innocent, children of God above reproach in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you appear as lights in the world. (Philippians 2:24-15 NAS)
OBSERVATION:
This verse(s) demonstrate the importance of living out one’s faith. We are to live in community that is accountable to each other. We are also to remember the world is watching us.
APPLICATION:
I must rely on my sisters and brothers in Christ to be help accountable for grumbling and argumentative. I must also remember the light of God has been given to me to show to the world.
PRAYER:
Lord, thank you for my sisters and brothers in Christ. Let them be lights that illuminate my path and fellow travelers down this path of life. Strenghten us so we may take you Word into the world.
YES:
I will share the Good News today.

4/18/09 Revelation 14:1-13

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) which speak to you)
Here is the perseverance of the saints who keep the commandments of God and their faith in Jesus. And I heard a voice from heaven, saying, “Write, Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on!” “Yes,” says the Spirit, “that they may rest from their labors, for their deeds follow with them.” (Revelation 14:12-13 NAS)
OBSERVATION:
From the book of Revelation come great and descriptive apocalyptic language and imagery. Chapter 14 pulls no punches about the dangers of not living in the Word of God and not having faith in Jesus Christ. But there is also the great promise for those who live into the Word of God and the faith of Jesus Christ.
APPLICATION:
Actions matter!!! It is eternally important to know and follow the Word of God. Having faith in Jesus Christ not only impels us to live today but give us the promise of eternal rest. I believe the action we are to live is to always be loving God and loving neighbor.
PRAYER:
Lord, forgive me when I have not loved you with all my heart and actions. Forgive me when I have intentionally and unintentionally not shown love to my neighbors.
YES:
I will love the Lord with all my heart, soul, mind and body and my neighbor the same.

4/17/09 2 Peter 1:1-12s

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) which speak to you)
Thus He (Jesus) has given us, through these things, his precious and very great promises, so that through them you may escape from the corruption that is in the world because lust, and may become participants of the divine nature. (2 Peter 1:4 NOAB)
OBSERVATION:
Christ has made the way for salvation and life. Through the life, ministry, death and resurrection of Christ we can break away from the destructive forces of this world. Not only are we promised salvation we can participate.
APPLICATION:
I must believe and accept what Christ has done for the world and me. It is through the self sacrifice of Christ I am able to live an abundant life; now and forever. I must always look for ways to flee from the sinful influences of this world and seek the love and life of Christ. He has done it for me.
PRAYER:
Lord thank you for your great love, a love so great that you went to the cross for me. Empower me to live a life of thankfulness.
YES:
I will share the promise of Good News with someone new today.

4/16/09 Colossians 3:15-17

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) which speak to you)
And let the peace of Chris rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body; and be thankful. Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you, with all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, sing with thankfulness in your hearts to God. And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father. (Colossians 3:15-17 NAS)
OBSERVATION:
This is a call to be a community of Christ that not only worships and serves together but also takes care of each other. Faith is lived out in community.
APPLICATION:
Often faith is seen as simply a personal decision or way of life. However the peace of Christ is best lived out in community (the Church). Personal scripture study and prayer is very important but as the passage demonstrates so is public worship. It is within community we are able to build each other up in love. We must also be open to being “admonished” in love when the need arises. This is helps us grow as an earthly representation of the Body of Christ.
PRAYER:
Lord, thank you for that peace which surpasses all understanding. Let your Word dwell deeply within so that my actions and words my represent you. Teach me to live in love with all my sisters and brothers.
YES:
I will seek the company of Christians.

4/15/09 Mark 4:35-42

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) which speak to you)
He [Jesus] got up, rebuked the wind and said to the sea, “Silence! Be still!” THe wind ceased, and there was a great calm. Then He said to them, “why were you fearful? Do you still have no faith”. (Mark 4:39-40 Holman)
OBSERVATION:
Jesus had been asleep in the boat as the sea became treachous. The disiples (many fishermen) grow fearful and call out to Jesus. Jesus calms the storm then addresses the lack of faith in the disciples.
APPLICATION:
One would think the disciples should be able to handle the storm on their own. Are we any different? We think we can handle the storms of life on our own. It is only when the proverbial boat starts to sink and all seems lost do we cry out to Jesus. The Good News is He is already there. If we would ask for help at the beginning of trouble rather than later the storms of life might seem less dangerous.
PRAYER:
Lord, forgive me for when I have tried to sail through the storms of life without you. And Lord thank you for always hearing my cry for help.
YES:
I will seek the Lord’s help in all situations.

4/14/09 Psalm 62:5-8

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) which speaks to you)
Trust in God, at all times, you people; pour out your hearts before Him. God is our refuge.
OBSERVATION:
People do not always (at all times) put their trust in God. God expects us to reach out to Him at all times.
APPLICATION:
It is not always easy to trust in God. When the tough times come we often attempt to rely on our own abilities first. Trusting in God at all times will hel pus get through the most difficult times.
PRAYER:
Lord forgive me when I have trusted on my abilities. Let me give thanks for the gifts and graces you have given me and how you never leave me.
YES:
I will trust in the Lord!!!

4/11/09 Colossians 3:5-9

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) which speak to you)
Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature; sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry. Because of these, the wrath of God is coming, You used to walk in these ways, in the life you once lived. But now you must rid yourselves of all such theses: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips, don not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices. (Colossians 3:5-9 NIV)
OBSERVATION:
This is a listing of some of the sins that can separate us from the love of God in Jesus Christ. If these activities are practiced a person can not lead a new life.
APPLICATION:
The cross stands on top of these practices. One often thinks of sin as a being huge terrible things. But sin is anything or practice that separates us from the love of God. It is important to note the not lying to each other. This calls us into covenant relationships so we can all live in Christ together.
PRAYER:
Lord, I thank you for new life. Give me the strength to always walk in you ways and give honor to you.
YES:
I will say yes to new life in Christ.

4/10/09 Luke 23:26-43

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) which speaks to you)
Jesus answered him, “I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise.” (Luke 23:42 NIV)
OBSERVATION:
The passage details the events from Jesus carrying the cross to forgiveness of condemned criminal. Jesus seemingly in a powerless postion demonstrate total and complete power over all earthly powers.
APPLICATION:
I am struck at the forthright speaking of the criminals. One taunts Jesus the other seeks salvation. Both were about to die. The promise of salvation is granted to those who profess belief in Christ and confess Jesus as Savior. Paradise is promised to those who do.
PRAYER:
Lord I thank you for my salvation. Lead me always to profess you as Savior.
YES:
I will profess Jesus as my Lord and Savior

4/9/09 Mark 14: 66-72

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) which speak to you)
And immediately a cock crowed a second time. And Peter remembered how Jesus had made the remark to him, “Before the cock crows twice, you will deny Me three times”. And he began to weep. (Mark 14:72 NAS)
OBSERVATION:
This is from the night that Jesus was arrested. Peter (the disciple) denies Jesus after earlier promising to never deny Jesus.
APPLICATION:
We are not much different from Peter. With actions and words we deny Jesus when we don’t accept the responsibility of being a Christian. Sometimes we neglect to help others when it does not fit our schedules. Sometimes we deny Jesus when we hear insulting language and do not seek to right the wrong. Sometimes we deny Jesus by “accident” and other times not. It hurts when we realize we have done this and like Peter we weep. But there is good news. Just as Peter was forgiven so are we.

\SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) which speak to you)
And immediately a cock crowed a second time. And Peter remembered how Jesus had made the remark to him, “Before the cock crows twice, you will deny Me three times”. And he began to weep. (Mark 14:72 NAS)
OBSERVATION:
This is from the night that Jesus was arrested. Peter (the disciple) denies Jesus after earlier promising to never deny Jesus.
APPLICATION:
We are not much different from Peter. With actions and words we deny Jesus when we don’t accept the responsibility of being a Christian. Sometimes we neglect to help others when it does not fit our schedules. Sometimes we deny Jesus when we hear insulting language and do not seek to right the wrong. Sometimes we deny Jesus by “accident” and other times not. It hurts when we realize we have done this and like Peter we weep. But there is good news. Just as Peter was forgiven so are we.
PRAYER:
Lord forgive me when I have intentionally and unintentionally denied you.
YES:
I will seek new ways to proclaim the love of Jesus Christ and guard against denying Jesus. Lord forgive me when I have intentionally and unintentionally denied you.
YES:
I will seek new ways to proclaim the love of Jesus Christ and guard against denying Jesus.

4/8/09 Psalm 19:1-14

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) which speak to you)
The heavens are telling of the glory of God; And their expanse is declaing the work of His hands. (Psalm 19:1 NAS)
OBSERVATION
This whole psalm is a praise about the creative nature of God. There is also a reminder of God’s guidance through the Holy Word. The first verse reminds us of the unimaginable magnitude of God’s creation.
APPLICATION:
When I compare myself to the magnitude of the heavens I am reminded I am as big as a grain of sand on a beach. But I should remember I am part of the created nature. God put as much into me as the heavens and the oceans. I must always strive to honor God by being the creation I was made to be.
PRAYER:
Lord I look out the window at day and night and struck by your power and majesty. And rather than feeling like an insignificant grain of sand let me rejoice in the news you have made me. “May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable to you.
YES
I will strive to be what God made me.

4/7/09 Matthew 26: 36-46

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) which speak to you.)
And He (Jesus) went a little beyond them, and fell on His face and prayed, saying, “My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from me. Yet not as I will but as I will but as Thou wilt.” (Matthew 26:38 NAS)
OBSERVATION:
This verse is from the Passion story when Jesus prays in the garden of Gethsemane. This directly follows the institution of the Lord Supper and is followed by the arrest of Jesus.
APPLICATION:
The depth of Jesus’ emotions is clearly demonstrated in this verse and passage. It has always struck me that the Lord and Savior (the Only Begotten Son) would pray this prayer. What it demonstrates to me is that we are to take everything to God in prayer. The important part of the prayer is very important. We should always pray for the Lord’s will not ours.
PRAYER:
Lord, thank you for hearing all of my prayers. Teach me to trust in your will for my life and not just on my desires.
YEILD:
I yield my will to the Lord.

4/6/09 Psalm 37:3-6

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) which speak to you.)
Trust in the Lord, and do good; Dwell in the land and cultivate faithfulness, Delight yourself in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart.
OBSERVATION:
There is security for those who trust in the Lord and live (dwell) with the Lord.
APPLICATION:
There is a great deal of action in this short passage. Trusting and doing good along with dwelling and cultivating are ways to live. You can not trust without doing. That would be testing. If we trust and do good we will enjoy the presence of the Lord.
PRAYER:
Lord thank you for the all the ways in have known the joy of living in your land. Teach me to continue to grow and culitivate in my trust in you. Strengthen me to share your Good News.
YES:
I will trust in the Lord

4/4/09 Genesis 45: 1-5

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) which speak to you)
Then Joseph said to his brothers, “come close to me.” When thy had done so, he said, “I am your brother Joseph, the one you sold into Egypt! And now do not be distressed and do not be angry with yourselves for selling me here, because it was to save lives that God sent me ahead of you. (Genesis 45:4-5 NIV).
OBSERVATION
Years before this passage, in a jealous rage, Joseph’s brothers had sold Joseph into slavery. Joseph had prospered but the family was struggling to the point of starvation. But God had worked for good through the mistakes of the brothers.
APPLICATION:
One could almost not blame Joseph for being mad and holding a grudge over the selfish mistake his brothers had made. But Joseph believed that God was with him and would provide him. It is easy to blame others when we have been cheated upon or cast aside. But we need to expect and know on faith that God will work for good in all situations if we have faith.
PRAYER
Lord, teach me to have faith even in situations which I see no hope. Show me how to forgive others despite my human tendency to hold forgiveness.
YES:
I will seek forgiveness from others and offer forgiveness I have held.

4/3/09 Matthew 10:40-42

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) which speak to you)
He who receives you receives me, and he who receives me receives the one who sent me. Anyone who receives a prophet because he is a prophet will receive a prophet’s reward will receive a prophet’s reward, and anyone who receives a righteous man because he is a righteous man will receive a righteous man’s reward. And if anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones because he is my disciples, I tell you the truth, he will certainly not lose his reward.” (Matthew 10:40-42 NIV)
OBSERVATION:
From the words of Jesus we are instructed on the blessing of receiving God’s love. This is done by giving in the name of the LORD.
APPLICATION:
Every day there are opportunities to share the blessing of the Lord’s message of love. When we share with action or word we also receive another measure of God’s grace filled love. This can be done at work, school or just teaching about love with our children at the supper table.
PRAYER:
Lord thank you for the gift of your love. Use me to share it where ever I go.
YES
I will share the GOOD NEWS of JESUS!!!

4/2/09 Job 2:1-10

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) which speak to you)
So Satan went out from the presence of the Lord and afflicted Job with painful sores from the soles of his feet to the top of his head. Then Job took a piece of broken pottery and scraped himself with it as he sat among the ashes, His wife said to him, “are you still holding on to your integrity? Curse God and die!” He (Job) replied, “You are talking like a foolish woman [sic]. Shall we accept good from God, and not trouble?” In all this, Job did not sin in what he said. (Job 2:7-10 NIV)
OBSERVATION:
This is from a very troubling and hard passage to read. It is almost as if God and Satan are wagering over the righteousness of Job. But God’s provision is promised and provided; Job would be afflicted but not die. Job does not lose faith but takes strength in knowing we are not to rely on God in the good times but even in times of trouble.
APPLICATION:
Job’s wife represents the reaction of many who do not full know and love the Lord. In times of trial it is tempting to cry out or blame God. But God is in times of joy just as He is in times of triumphant. I need remember to accept all things and experiences as ways of knowing the Lords promise and provision.
PRAYER:
Lord when it seems that life closes in and there are sores from my feet to my head. Let me know your love and provision covers me sufficient to salve the problems of this world.
YES
I will seek the Lord’s promise and provision all my days.

4/1/09 Philippians 4:4-9

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) which speak to you)
Rejoice in the Lord always, I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your request to God, And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:4-7 NIV)
OBSERVATION:
The words seemed to jump of the page with joy and praise!!! There is guidance in this passage on how to live our lives and how to pray. The call to not be anxious is very clear in the passage. The promise of pursuing calmness (security) is knowing we have access to the being in of understanding.
APPLICATION:
There are times we all feel anxiousness and fear. In these times, it is often hard to rejoice. In anxious times we pray for deliverance (which is good and appropriate) but forget to rejoice in knowing we have been promised deliverance from all that has the power to separate of God’s love in Jesus Christ.
PRAYER
Lord, I rejoice in your love; again I rejoice. Thank you for your ever presence and love that overpowers all the things that can run me down and cause me anxiousness.
YES:
I will rejoice in the Lord!!!

3/31/09 1 Kings 19:1-13

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) which speak to you)
The He said, “go out and stand on the mountain in the Lord’s presence.” At that moment, the LORD passed by. A great and might wind was tearing at the mountains and was shattering cliffs before the LORD, But the LORD was not in the wind. After the wind there was an earthquake. After the earthquake there was a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire. And after he fire there was a voice, a soft whisper. (1 Kings 19:11-12 Holman)
OBSERVATION:
The mighty prophet Elijah is on the run from the powerful Jezebel. Starving and dying of thirst in the desert, God provides food and water for Elijah. Elijah needs more confirmation of God’s presence and provision. After the spectacle of wind storm, earthquake, and fire, the Lord makes divine presence known and felt in the still small voice.
APPLICATION:
Sometimes I feel as I if I am in the tempest of windstorm that the ground shakes beneath my feet and not only is the candle burning at both ends but my world seems on fire. In these times I reach out for the presence of the Lord while forgetting. The Lord has always been there right in the midst of life with a still, small whisper reminding me I am loved and cared for by HIM.
PRAYER:
Lord, I thank you for your ever presence in my life. Clear my ears so that I can hear your small whisper in my heart and know life.
YES:
I will listen for that still small whisper.

3/30/09 Luke 6:27-37

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) which speak to you)
But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return; and your reward will be great and you will be sons of the Most High; for He Himself is kind to ungrateful and evil men. Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful. (Luke 6:35-36 NAS)
OBSERVATION:
These are the words of Jesus which follows the great blessings and woes passage, also known as The Beatitudes. These were counter-cultural ideas in the first century. Jesus calls the listener and reader to aspire to the best within themselves.
APPLICATION:
These are still counter-cultural words. Modern society is a “me” first society. We all have to guard against these ideas creeping into our ways of living. We would rather hold a grudge or remember some past malfeasance made against us rather than live in peace, because the latter is hard. But we are to remember that despite of ourselves, despite the ways we have sinned against God, we are loved and God desires not to condemn us but to love us.
PRAYER:
Lord forgive me when I have sinned against you by sinning against my brother and sister. Teach me to live in you so that all might know your Grace and Love.
YES:
I will be lead to forgive as God has forgiven me.

3/28/09 Galatians 5: 16-25

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) which speak to you)
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. If we live by the Spirit, let us walk by the Spirit. (Galatians 5:22-25 NAS)
OBSERVATION:
In opposition to the desires of the flesh is the fruit of the flesh. It is interesting that it is not fruits but fruit. We are given all fruit as one if we accept to live and walk in the Spirit of God.
APPLICATION:
We have been given the freedom to choose between good and bad. But we must rely not on ourselves but the Spirit to lead. Knowing our Lord and Savior went to the cross to over come the power of sin should be empowering for us. These example of fruit; love, peace patience… are ways we can live in the Spirit but it requires doing.
PRAYER:
LOrd forgive me when I have chosen to be lead by the desires of the flesh and not by your Spirit. Teach me to use the fruit you have given.
YES:
I will say yes to being led by the Holy Spirit.

3/27/09 Ecclesiastes 3:1-21

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) which speak to you)
God has made everything appropriate in its time, He has also put eternity in their hearts, but man cannot discover the work God has done from beginning to end, I know that there is nothing better for them than to rejoice and enjoy the good life (Ecclesiastes 3:11-12 HCSB).
OBSERVATION:
These verses follow the great Ecclesiastes passage often called a “time for everything”. One of the most metaphysical gifts we have been given is the gift of time. We can not control it or truly determine what happens within time. We can only live in time. So in all things we are to rejoice and enjoy a life with God.
APPLICATION:
I, like many, think we can manage our time. Look at our calendars, watches and day planners. But things interrupt what we might have planned. We might wake with a full calendar of events and the child is sick and the day is over the plans are out the window. It would be tempting to see the day as a waste of time but in reality it is time to spend with one I love.
PRAYER:
Lord, I give you thanks for time and how you break into my life at all times. In times of good or bad let me always rejoice and enjoy life with you.
YES:
I will say yes to looking for God’s presence in all the “times” in my life.

3/26/09 Galatians 6:1-10

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) which speaks to you)
Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers. (Galatians 6:10 NIV)
OBSERVATION:
This verse is at the end of a passage that not only talks about doing good in all things but the importance of holding each other accountable. Actions matter and we are to watch our own actions and correct the actions of others.
APPLICATION:
Our modern culture seems to still see the importance of “good” actions. But good actions often come with a “what is in it for me” mentality. This is not what the passage is calling for, the ends of good actions is so that grace might abound for all.
Our modern culture also does not seem to hold corporate accountability in high regards. It seems even personal accountability only comes into conversation when there is a public malfeasance. Christians are called to a higher accountability. We are called to watch over each other and in love correct with others stray.
PRAYER
Lord thank you for my friends and family and faith. May we also hold each other accountable to your love so that love might continually grow.
YES:
I will ask others to hold me accountable and do the same for others.

3/25/09 Mark 10:13-16

SCRIPTURE
(Please share the verse(s) which speak to you.)
When Jesus say this, he was indignant. He said to them, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder the, 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. (Mark 10:14-15 NIV)
OBSERVATION:
Jesus is “indignant” at those who prevent full access of children to divine grace. In the 1st century, children held no status, they were marginalized.
APPLICATION:
Even today we marginalize and segregate. The power and wealthy often use influence who is marginalized and who receives physical grace. But in the Kingdom it is the marginalized who receive full access to the Kingdom.
PRAYER:
Lord, forgive me for when I have, intentionally and unintentionally, blocked access to you. Use me as a vessel of our grace.
YES:
I will pursue ministry to, for and with the marginalized.

3/24/09 2 Corinthians 2:6-16

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) which speak to you.)
We have not received the spirit of the world but the Spirit who is from God, that we may understand what God has freely given us (1 Corinthians 2:16 NIV)
OBSERVATION
A promise of the Holy Spirit is given to us. The Holy Spirit help us receive the gift of grace (which is freely given) so that we may have life in love and light not darkness and sin.
APPLICATION:
When the temptations and spirits of this world assault me, I need not fear. God’s Spirit is right with me… teaching me, showing me love, and empowering me to receive and share God’s grace.
PRAYER:
Lord, thank you for your ever presence in my life.
YES:
I will say yes to the Holy Spirit and NO!! to the spirit of this world.

3/23/09 Matthew 21:12-17

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) which speak to you)
“Yes”, replied Jesus, “have you never read, ‘from the lips of children and infants you have ordained praise’”. (Matthew 21:16b NIV)
OBSERVATION:
This passage of from the triumphant entry we know as Palm Sunday. Jesus is quoting from what we know as Psalm 8:2. Jesus reminding the spiritual elite of the day those mere children are more responsive to the actions of God than they.
APPLICATION:
God’s self revelation seems to come to the least first. We need to listen to those who believe and try to tell us the presence of the Lord in these days.
PRAYER:
Lord, thank you for your constant in-breaking in our world. Teach me to see and believe with the heart and soul of a child.
YES:
I will expect God’s revelation and presence in my world.

3/21/09 Psalm 119:43-48

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) which speaks to you)
Never take the word of truth from my mouth, for I hope Your Judgments I will always keep Your Law forever and ever. I will walk freely in an open place because I seek Your precepts I will speak of Your decrees before kings and not be ashamed. I delight in Your commands which I love. I will lift up my hands to Your commands which I love and will meditate on Your statutes.
OBSERVATION:
There is life giving strength in having a relationship with the Lord. The Lord gives guidance in Scripture (and written upon our hearts). This verse reminds us we are strong in vulnerability (“walking in the open”) and before power (“speaking of Your decrees before kings”). We are to simply love God, search Scriptures, and pray.
APPLICATION:
This passage also reminds me of our habit of relying on the self. We must keep God’s message close to our hearts and minds so that our actions can show life with God.
PRAYER
Lord, thank you for your message found in Scripture and written upon our hearts. Open my eyes, clear my ears, and warm my heart to your law and love so that I may always abide in that strength.
YES
I will continually search the Scriptures

3/20/09 1 Samuel 3:1-10

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) which speak to you)
Now the boy Samuel was ministering to the Lord before Eli And word from the Lord was rare in those days, visions were infrequent… The Lord came and stood and called as at other times, “Samuel! Samuel!” And Samuel said, “Speak, for Thy servant is listening,” (1 Samuel 3:1,10 NAS)
OBSERVATION
The temple priests (Eli’s sons) had strayed far from observing God’s word found in Torah. Those who were “charged” with the responsibility of knowing, living and sharing God’s message were no longer able to be tellers of God’s word or vessels for God to pour vision into. God chose the least likely person in the Temple, young Samuel.
APPLICATION
Our world has many options for “enlightenment”. We can choose to follow a personal path toward personal growth and never open God’s message of love and hope. We can lose sight of God’s promise through Jesus Christ. But if we just listen, in the midst of din of modern life, God will call us to do extraordinary life and ministry.
PRAYER
Lord, from the midst of this noisy modern world let me respond to your call to grow deeper into relationship with you. Use me to be a vessel of your Word in this world. Erase my visions of what might be and show me what will be in you.
YES
I will respond to God’s call

3/19/09 2 Corinthians 3:2-4

SCRIPTURE:
(Please share the verse(s) which speak to you)
You show that you are a letter from Christ, the result of our ministry, written not with ink but the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of human hearts. (2 Corinthians 3:2-3 NIV)
OBSERVATION:
Letters in the ancient world were extremely important means of communication. Believers described as living letters demonstrates the creative power of God and how Christ has commissioned us to be carriers of Good News.
APPLICATION:
I believe the message of God’s love is written upon our hearts. The study of Holy Scripture and belief in Jesus Christ brings this message from heart to mind. Therefore our actions should show God’s love.
PRAYER:
Lord, please help me know how you have placed in my heart your message of love. Empower me to use all of my body and life to share your love with others.
YES
I will search for, receive and share God’s message of Love through Jesus Christ.