Devotional Gems by Jolene

Identity in Christ

2012-01-31T06:00:00.019-05:00

IDENTITY IN CHRIST

1 Peter 1:1-5

Vv.1-2: “Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, To God’s elect...who have been chosen according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through the sanctifying work of the Spirit, for obedience to Jesus Christ and sprinkling of His blood: Grace and peace be yours in abundance.”

Did you hear that Peter called you God’s elect? Peter was addressing people who were being persecuted (PER-see-CUTE-d means mistreated) around year 60. (Around 1,950 years ago). This must have encouraged those people, and it should surely encourage us today.

When the Wise Men found baby Jesus, news spread like wildfire that He came for the Jews, and for Gentiles! January’s devotions centered on “Jesus” topics, and this last one is to encourage you. Jesus is for you. The Father sent Jesus to die, so that your sins may be forgiven, AND to teach you about Himself, through His Son. Those who believe in Jesus—and appoint Him Lord of their lives—the indwelling Holy Spirit empowers and seals as God’s possession (Ephesians 1:13). God has great things planned for you. That’s pure love. What three things remind believers of their identity in Christ?

Believers are chosen in Christ. Everyday is a good time to remind ourselves who we are in the Lord, AND Whose we are. This means, that where every person is offered the free gift of salvation in Jesus—only those who believe in Him are the elect—on the basis of free will (John 3:16, Romans 1:20). God wants you. God chose you. You belong to Him.

Salvation is purely an act of mercy. Titus 3:5 says, “...He saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of His mercy.” No one can claim their good works earned them a place in heaven.

Believers in Christ are protected. Psalm 34:7 says, “The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear Him, and He delivers them.” The only way hardship can touch us is what the Lord allows. Hardship (what ends up as discipline) is for our own good: to grow, to learn, to mature in Christ. Psalm 23:4 assures us, “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me;...”

Those whose identity is in Christ succeed and prevail with joy.

Take Home Nugget

These are trying times. When we focus upon who we are in Jesus Christ—Who purchased our lives with His blood—we stand tall and firm. Let us live boldly, as victorious, chosen, assured, protected, and beloved adopted children of the most High God!

Because God’s really there,

We can endure anything.

He reveals love, mercy, and care

As we depend on Him for everything.

J.D. Griffith

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Progressive Intimacy

2012-01-27T06:00:00.026-05:00

PROGRESSIVE INTIMACY

John 16:7-15

Vv. 7-8: “But I tell you the truth; It is for your good that I that I am going away. Unless I go away, the Counselor will not come to you; but if I go, I will send Him to you. When He comes, He will convict the world of guilt in regard to sin and righteousness and judgment:...”

God created people to have relationships with us. The more intense we seeking Him, the more intimate He becomes (IN-tim-at means warm private closeness). At first, with Adam and Eve, God walked in the garden in the cool of the day (Genesis3:8). They enjoyed an easy, comfortable relationship. God found friendship in Moses, and even allowed him to see His back (Exodus 33:19-23). Jehovah, or Yahweh was never far from His sinful people. He kept them safe from harm, and after punishing their wickedness, rescued them from bondage (Exodus 12:31-50). That’s a God Who loves His creation.

Then God moved even closer. The human/divine baby Jesus came to earth as God incarnate (in-KAR-nat means in the flesh). Jesus was only limited physically (His humanity) while on earth by being in one place at a time. But at least now people could experience God the Father through His Son. And what close friendships the disciples developed with their Lord Jesus! They hated His death. They certainly didn’t want to lose Him again as He ascended to heaven. But Jesus promised them a radically different intense relationship soon.

Then God sent His Spirit to come and live inside Jesus’ followers. That is what indwelling means. The Counselor gives us divine wisdom, insight (truth), and power. The scared disciples met privately together in locked rooms after Jesus’ ascension. Acts 2 compares these frightened people to transformed powerhouses after the Holy Spirit rushed into their lives (sounding like fierce wind). They became bold. They confidently preached the gospel of Christ, and even were willing to suffer when identified as Jesus’ disciples.

Whoever believes in Jesus as Savior receives God living within! This is the closeness that God always wanted to have with believers. But He also wants us to accomplish great things. By the Spirit’s supernatural indwelling, believers are empowered—to produce His fruit, and accomplish His work. The Holy Spirit seals us as God's kids (Ephesians 1:13).

This paints you as God’s victorious poster child!

Take Home Nugget

Think of the amazing opportunity that God’s offering you. What an honor it is to partner with the creator of the Universe! Naturally, at first we feel lacking in ability, intimidated for such overwhelming tasks—but the Holy Spirit is greater than any obstacle we face (1John 4:4).

When we see all God’s provisions, we trust Him for what is unseen.

J.D. Griffith

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The Name Jesus

2012-01-24T06:00:00.021-05:00

THE NAME JESUS

Matthew 1:18-23

V. 21: “She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because He will save His people from their sins.”

“Is it true” Shakira asked her 3rd-grade Sunday school teacher, “that ‘Jesus’ is a common name?”

Mrs. Dugan answered, “Yes. The name Jesus was, and still is a pretty common name, even if people pronounce it differently. But there’s nothing common about our precious Jesus. The name Jesus, means The Lord is salvation. That is why Jesus came to earth.”

Timmy asked, “Is ‘Christ’ Jesus’ last name?”

“No, Timmy. Christ is Greek for the Hebrew word, Messiah. That word means The Anointed One.” Mrs. Dugan said. “There has never been—even in other religions—another Christ.”

“Names are very important. Parents spend considerable time naming their children. They often choose family names, like when a son is given his father’s name. Or names of a beloved relative, a cherished friend, or even a respected leader can be chosen for a child. Parents hope that the baby will be like, or take after the person whose name they chose.”

“Names are so personal and individual, that they end up defining a person. Distinct qualities identify a person’s personality. Are they hopeful or negative, creative or need precise instructions, do they lead or follow, do they care for others or can’t be bothered with other’s problems? There is so much to consider when naming a child. A person’s name tags him or her for life....What name comes after, “Oh Come, Oh Come...?” Mrs. Dugan sang the beginning of a Christmas carol.

“Emmanuel!” the class responded together.

“Right! This name for Jesus means God with Us. Now you know three names: one identifies Jesus, another shows on Whose authority He came, and the third describes His purpose. Emmanuel or Immanuel tells us that Jesus is God. Christ, or Messiah, shows Who sent Him. The name Jesus claims His work, as Savior. He willingly became human flesh—while preserving His divinity—and offered Himself as sacrifice for our sins when He died on the cross.”

“But God cannot die!” Luis objected.

Take Home Nugget

“That is precisely why Jesus had to be born as a human, Luis” Mrs. Dugan explained. “He had to be human, (but without sin), so that His blood and death would pay for our sins. But He defeated death, so that we won’t die for eternity. His resurrection and ascension to heaven prove that whoever believes in Jesus will rise from the dead (John 6:40). Those same believers will live forever in heaven!”

Jesus’ glory in a manger lie,

Was born so that we won’t forever die.

Born to give us second birth,

Born to raise children of earth!

J.D. Griffith

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Unique God-Man

2012-01-20T06:00:00.025-05:00

UNIQUE GOD-MAN

Matthew 16:1-28

V. 9: “Do you still not understand? Don’t you remember the five loaves for the five thousand, and how many basketfuls you gathered?”

vv. 15-16: “‘But what about you? ‘Who do you say I am?’

Simon Peter answered, ‘You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.’”

v. 27: “For the Son of Man is going to come in His Father’s glory with His angels, and then He will reward each person according to what he has done.”

Pastor Jobst read the opening Scripture to the 3rd grade classroom. (See Super Best Friend devotion). Pastor commented, “Who could do such things? I noticed hesitation about making Jesus Lord of your lives. Why?”

Bianca spoke up, “Pastor, it’s my life! I don’t even like Mom and Dad correcting me. I know they love me, same as Jesus, but I want to decide for myself how to be.”

“That’s very honest, Bianca” Pastor said. “Let me try to convince you why He’s better than even you to be in charge of your life. For one thing, Jesus is unlike any other. He’s not only man, but He’s God. He had an earthly Mother, but a Supernatural Father. His birth was announced by angels.”

“My Mom calls me an angel—when I’m good.” Devon said.

“Your Mom flatters you, Devon. How wise are you? Jesus spent three days with rabbis when He was twelve years old. They concluded that He had uncommon Biblical understanding. When He was baptized—although He’d never sinned—God claimed Him as His Son.”

“I hadn’t sinned when I got baptized” Karmen said.

“I have to be honest with you Karmen, you were born into sin. Could you have been tested by the devil for forty days, resist temptation when you’re starving, and not sin?” Pastor asked.

“Probably not” Karmen admitted.

“Jesus challenged religious traditions, healed people, and even raised Lazarus from the dead. Who do you know can forgive sins?”

The kids at the table lowered their eyes, everyone silent.

“Luis said Jesus is his Super Best Friend. I agree with him. This God-Man is unique” (u-NEEK means one of a kind). Jesus wants to be your personal friend, involved deeply in your lives. This is the message He wanted me to give you today. I hope that you’ll take His offer seriously.”

Take Home Nugget

Jesus was never merely human, as a prophet or teacher. Sending Jesus is how our Father chose to show His love for us. Jesus showed His love for us by dying on the cross, and offering us eternal life. Who’s Lord of your life?

Everyone has a Lord who’s in charge of life. If you don’t choose Jesus, who then? You?

J.D. Griffith

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Super Best Friend

2012-01-17T06:00:00.027-05:00

SUPER BEST FRIEND

John 15:9-17

Vv. 13-16: “Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends. You are My friends if you do what I command. I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business. Instead have called you friends, for everything I have learned from My Father, I have made known to you. You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit—fruit that will last.” Words chalked on the 3rd-grade Sunday school blackboard.

The song, What a Friend We Have in Jesus rang out from the 3rd-grade Sunday school classroom when Pastor Jobst entered and sat down in a chair at their round table. He smiled at each child, individually. He placed a plate of cookies on the table, and said, “Help yourselves!”

While kids scrambled for cookies, Pastor said, “That song always makes me smile because it’s soooo true! I pray that you never stop singing that song, because it will carry you throughout life with a smile on your face.” The kids munched cookies, listening intently.

“I come as God’s partner to tell you something specific today. We both work hard to show you His goodness, mercy, and faithfulness. We hope that this will motivate you to make Him Lord of your lives. Because He wants what’s best for you in all situations, He’ll never fail you. His plan for your lives is better than you can imagine. As absolute ruler over all creation, don’t you think that He deserves to be Lord in your lives too?”

Seeing kids’ nodding heads, Pastor continued, “Do you tell your friends secrets?” The kids continued nodding their heads. “Let me tell you a secret” Pastor said. Leaned forward, he whispered, “Jesus wants to be your friend....Why do you think Jesus wants to be your friend?” Pastor asked.

“Is Jesus lonely?” Shakira asked.

Pastor smiled. “In fact, Shakira” he said, “Jesus is only lonely for those who don’t believe in Him. He came to save all kids. He wants to be your buddy, going with you everywhere, and helping you through the hard stuff.” He pointed to the blackboard and said, “Jesus said that to His disciples one day. He has secrets to tell you, too, if you’ll listen.”

“Jesus is my Super Best Friend!” Luis said, clapping his hands.

Take Home Nugget

Are modern-day disciples too “grown up” to sing that song? We are empowered by the Holy Spirit to learn God’s ways through Jesus, Who knows all the Father’s secrets. Jesus is God, and He’s also your buddy. How cool is that?

Hallelujah! What a friend!

Jesus is with me until the very end.

J.D. Griffith

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Kurios

2012-01-13T06:00:00.028-05:00

KURIOS

Luke 6:46-49

V. 46: “‘Why do you call Me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and do not do what I say?’”

Benjy yelled, “Lord, please give us snow!”

“Be careful how you use the Lord’s Name, Benjy.” his Mom counseled. “Is the weather important enough to you that you cry out to the Lord?”

8-year old Benjy gulped. He remembered his older cousin, Jeremy’s warning about how to follow Jesus, since He’s Lord, and came for Benjy. (See Jesus 4 Us and Jesus’ Lordship devotion). “Jeremy said that how I respond to Jesus being Lord of my life is my decision. I decided to let Jesus call the shots in my life now. He came for me, you know. I was just asking Jesus for snow, so that we’d have another long weekend from school...like during Christmas.”

“Oh.” Benjy’s Mom said. “Well honey, that’s great! But using the word "Lord" should not be used carelessly, or in casual conversation. Jesus is God. He has supreme power over all creation—the whole universe! We use Jesus Name, "Lord" in crying out to Him for help in emergencies, Benjy. Not necessarily for a long weekend from school.”

Benjy’s Mom is correct. The Greek word for Jesus’ title is kurios—One Who rules the lives of others for their own good. Aren’t we lucky to serve such an amazing God? Benjy knows this, and is why he turned to Jesus for another long weekend.

With too many of God’s kids, embracing Jesus as Lord of their lives only comes in emergency situations. We’re to be careful by how we speak casually with such power. Even so, let us always tuck Jesus’ Lordship and what that means in the front of our hearts and minds. It’s fine to call Jesus "Lord" in prayer, for example, but certainly not as a curse, or as an exclamation of emotion.

Jesus’ point, in the opening Scripture is that too many who embrace Him as Lord of their lives do not obey Him. This is the person who does whatever he wants, without regard to the Lord’s will. When things go badly, that person can’t handle the problems that arise, and freaks out. But the person who follows the Lord leads a life that can weather any storm—with confidence—all the way to victory. That’s the difference between building a house (life) on rock (Jesus) or sand (self).

Won’t you decide to find victory in a life filled with confidence instead of forever fighting raging storms?

Take Home Nugget

Those who say they’ll obey Jesus—"when."..or "if"...even "but"...invent reasons why they refuse to obey—defy His Lordship. Let us prepare to obey Him without resistance in everything.

It’s no small thing to trust and obey,

But oh what glory He sheds on our way!

J.D. Griffith

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Jesus' Lordship

2012-01-10T06:00:00.016-05:00

JESUS’ LORDSHIP

Romans 14:7-12

Vv. 7-8: “For none of us lives to himself alone, and none of us dies to himself alone. If we live, we live to the Lord; and if we die, we die to the Lord. So whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord.”

Benjy, 8 years old, wasn’t done asking his 10 year-old cousin Jeremy, questions. (See Jesus 4 Us devotion). “I think it’s so cool that Jesus came for me, Jerm. But what does that mean, like, how am I supposed to react?”

Great question, Benjy! Every person—especially Christians—ought to ask that! Everybody assumes that one’s future is solely up to him, or her. But that’s not true. Destiny, or one’s fate isn’t up to chance, either. One’s future isn’t determined by the number of spaces on the game board of life. Who gets to throw the dice that numbers your steps? Life is not a game!

It ought to be very comforting to know that Jesus is the One Who’s in charge. He loves you unconditionally, completely, and totally apart from your behavior. He wants your very best. And He’s got a plan to bring you victory, with hope and a real future (Jeremiah 29:11). His authority isn’t limited only to those who claim Him as King: He’s King to those who dismiss Him as unimportant—whether they know it or not! The whole universe is subject to Jesus’ authority. His Lordship cannot be ignored.

Rejecting Jesus Christ as Lord will cost people plenty. Those who build their houses (lives) on the solid rock of Christ withstand all storms. Those who recognize Jesus’ Lordship—claim Him as King and live according to His will—obey His every command. In turn, their surrendered lives are blessed with joy, peace, and victory (Romans 15:18, Philippians 4:7).

It’s true that God’s gift of free will allows His kids to rebel against Jesus’ Lordship, if they so choose. Sometimes, God’s rebels succeed. This is when Jesus says that they’ve received their reward in full (Matthew 6:5). But often, rebels' lives fail miserably.

How is Jeremy supposed to answer Benjy’s question?

Take Home Nugget

Kneeling before Jesus Christ as Lord of our lives is the wisest decision we’ll ever make. The sovereign Lord of the universe chose you, formed you (Jeremiah 1:5), and wants your best—of all possibilities—blessing you every day.

Jeremy said, “Benjy, I choose to follow and obey Jesus. That’s my decision. Only you can decide how to respond to Jesus’ Lordship. But, I urge you to consider carefully. Eternity is forever, and I want you to be with me in heaven.”

More of Jesus; less of me

Life of full surrender is how I choose to be.

J.D. Griffith

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Jesus 4 Us

2012-01-06T06:00:00.022-05:00

JESUS 4 US

Revelation 1:4-8

Vv. 7-8: “Look, He is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see Him, even those who pierced Him; and all the peoples of the earth will mourn because of Him. So shall it be! Amen. ‘I am the Alpha and Omega,’ says the Lord God, ‘Who is, and Who was, and Who is to come, the Almighty.’”

Eight year-old Benjy asked his cousin, ten year-old Jeremy, what Epiphany (e-PIF-a-nee) means. Jeremy said, “Epiphany is when the Wise Men found baby Jesus. This shows that Jesus came for us Gentiles, as well as for Jews.” (Epiphany means a sudden understanding. It means “WOW,” like an “a-ha” moment of “I get it.”)

“What’s Gentiles (JEN-tilz)?” Benjy wondered.

“Gentiles are non-Jews, like us. Everyone who is not a Jew is a Gentile.”

Jeremy is correct. The word “Gentiles,” usually plural, refers to a people, many different peoples, or entire nations. Originally, it stood for those who don’t believe in the One True God. The Wise Men, or Magi, were not Jewish, yet God created a star that would guide them directly to Jesus. They presented Jesus gifts fit for a King (gold), a Priest (incense), and a Redeemer (myrrh). (Matthew 2:2, 11).

That is vital information. It screams, “Jesus is for us!” After the Wise Men found Jesus, they announced Him to all people in the whole world—whom He came to save. Jesus’ life demonstrated God the Father’s personality. We learn His ways from watching Jesus—and from the Bible. Jesus’ miracles confirm that He is God’s Son.

Jesus, the first-born, is older brother to everyone who believes in Him. He shows us how to live perfectly—despite the fact that we cannot—regardless of how hard we try. He took our sins, our blame, and our shame to the cross and died, so that we might live. Since the Father raised Jesus from the dead, believers will live after we die, too.

Jesus, as the King of kings, determines who gets to rule on earth. Believers have access to the throne room, where Brother Jesus works on our behalf (Hebrews 7:25). We claim God’s promises, and get His best when we pray in Jesus’ Name.

Take Home Nugget

Jesus loved us long before we knew Him. As God-man, Jesus gets our trouble, pain, and sorrow. He willingly shed His blood and died on the cross in our place. The opening Scripture is present tense! He’s alive, and is coming soon. He offers us salvation, and eternal life. That’s His personality, divinity, and power all rolled into one.

Jesus is definitely for us! Don’t you feel lucky to serve such an awesome Savior?

Jesus—Who’s always there,

We’re grateful for His care!

J.D. Griffith

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Saint or Aint

2012-01-03T06:00:00.014-05:00

SAINT OR AINT

1Corinthians 1:1-9

V. 2: “To the church in Corinth, to those sanctified in Christ Jesus and called to be holy, together with all those everywhere who call on the name of our Lord Jesus Christ—their Lord and ours: Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.” Emphasis mine.

Saints Benjy and Danny, twin 3rd graders, fool many into believing they’re anything but saints. But those who know Who’s raising them dare to believe the truth about two mischievous boys.

Apostle Paul makes it clear that anyone who believes in Jesus as Lord is a saint. We may not be obvious saints, because the sanctifying (SANK-ti-fy-ing means making holy) work isn’t complete—yet.

Webster’s dictionary defines a saint as a near-perfect person, now dead. True, heaven is full of saints, because God doesn’t invite aints. Who is correct, Paul or Webster?

Many people made resolutions (res-o-LU-shuns means promises) to begin 2012. We can change our attitude about ourselves in the new year too. Since everyone who’s a Christian is a new creature in Christ, Jesus is our King (2Corinthians 5:17). Becoming holy and living righteous lives takes a lifetime, happening day by day—through the power of the indwelling Holy Spirit.

Do you consider yourself as a sinner saved by grace, or a saint who sometimes sins? A sinner saved by grace stresses the word sinner. A saint who sometimes sins weighs saint heavier than the sin. The devil counts on your thinking of yourself as a sinner, and reminds you of that every day.

Every person on earth can be sorted into one of two groups, saints or aints. We either belong to God, or we don’t. Those who belong to Jesus Christ is a saint—set apart (from the aints) for God’s purpose on earth. Saints belong to two kingdoms. While our physical address is on earth, our spiritual address is “in Christ Jesus.” Because saints are bought with the blood of Jesus, He’s the One we serve. We live as aliens on earth because our true citizenship is in heaven.

Saints believe the Bible, and willingly obey God. Building a relationship with King Jesus, saints receive blessings like peace, joy, and contentment. We can change the way we view ourselves today. The devil wants to keep us earthbound by our sins. Don’t allow him the victory that rightfully belongs to you! Our lives will show our true selves when we believe that we’re saints.

Are you God’s child, or are you earthbound? A saint or an aint?

Take Home Nugget

Benjy and Danny are being raised by the Holy Spirit, Who’s grooming them as saints. They’re sure not aints!

Following Christ has two requirements: Believing and acting like it.

J.D. Griffith

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New year Clean

2011-12-30T06:00:00.001-05:00

NEW YEAR CLEAN

Jonah 1

Vv. 3b-4: “After paying the fare, he [Jonah] went aboard and sailed for Tarshish to flee from the Lord. Then the Lord sent a great wind on the sea, and such a violent storm arose that the ship threatened to break up.”

“Benjy! Danny!” The 3rd grade twins were in big trouble. After making a mess in their playroom, they decided to play outside. Their Mom demands better, and the twins will figure that out. But first they must endure the storm.

Unwrap the Gift devotion showed Jeremy, their 5th grade cousin, scolding them to clean up the discarded Christmas wrapping paper from the playroom floor. It seems, instead, that the twins are picking up the practice of not cleaning up after themselves. If their Mom has anything to say about it, this unwanted action will stop before it becomes a bad habit (HAB-it means routine pattern or practice).

Just like our parents show displeasure at some things we do, the Lord also has ways of getting our attention. Our heavenly Father only tolerates silliness to a point—before the storms come—just like earthly parents. Before silly, or stupid, becomes habit, the Lord often teaches action correction. But humankind is stubborn. We only learn the lesson, or get scrubbed clean, through storms.

Stormy circumstances shake loose bad habits (like smoking) that the Lord insists we end. Storms cleanse. They come unexpectedly, and in surprising ways. Nature uses storms like tornadoes, to rid trees of dead branches. Jonah’s storm finally ended when he was puked out of the fish’s mouth onto dry land (Jonah 2:10). God is patient, and gives us as many chances as it takes to learn lessons of living right.

But after storms, there’s always a mess to clean up. Stormy situations turn lives upside down. The Lord uprights us on solid ground, wrong practices now discarded. People clean up tornado wreckage to reveal sparkling lawns. Jonah went to Nineveh and preached repentance of sin, and the people were saved from the Lord’s destruction. Storms make new starts clean.

2012 is a fresh beginning. Won’t you give up bad habits—like bitterness, anger, and evil speech—BEFORE the Lord cleans you up through storms? (Ephesians 4:31).

Take Home Nugget

John 15:1-4 shows Jesus as the vine, God’s kids as the branches, and our heavenly Father as the gardener. Every branch that does not produce fruit gets cut off (yikes!). Those branches that do produce fruit He prunes to make even more fruitful. Let each of us develop good habits that produce plenty of good fruit for God’s kingdom.

Lord help me to produce good seeds

Through good habits

That are pruned into good deeds.

HAPPY NEW YEAR, WORLD!

J.D. Griffith

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Unwrap the Gift

2011-12-27T06:00:00.015-05:00

UNWRAP THE GIFT

Hebrews 2:14-18

V. 17: “For this reason He had to be made like His brothers in every way, in order that He might become a merciful and faithful high priest in service to God, and that He might make atonement for the sins of the people.”

Jeremy (and his family) went to visit his cousins, Danny and Benjy, (and their family) the day after Christmas. Entering the playroom, Jeremy tripped over the torn wrapping paper that covered the floor. “I know that you didn’t just leave the wrapping paper on the floor a whole day, guys! Comeon now, you’re acting like babies instead of 8 year old kids!” 10 year old Jeremy scolded. He crouched down and grabbed the paper he could reach, saying, “Throw this paper away!”

“Mom didn’t say we had to” Benjy whined.

“But you’re already enjoying the presents, aren’t you?” Jeremy challenged.

Excited to tear wrapping paper off presents—kids delight with their new gifts—and forget to clean the trash off the floor. But often we forget to unwrap the gift of Jesus, and delight in the Miraculous Gift (see devotion) that God gave to us, His kids. Just as the opening Scripture teaches, Jesus was made human, just like us. We can’t say that “we can’t be like Him.” or “He doesn’t know how we feel.” Rubbish—just like the used wrapping on the floor!

What’s more: when we believe in Jesus—as the Son of God Who died for our sins on the cross, was buried and rose from the dead—we get more gifts. Many people just adore the gift of Jesus Christ, and don’t bother to unwrap the gift of salvation. Is it because we resist making Jesus Lord over our lives?

What do we think we have to lose making Jesus King of our lives? What would He steal? Our independence? We are totally free when we depend 100% on Christ instead of our own wimpy human strength. The Father gave us free will so that we’d come to Him on our own, instead of being robots that automatically obey. But let’s use our free will to choose to do the smart thing, the right thing. Let’s unwrap Jesus and put our trust in Him alone. All other ways of living are trash.

Jesus isn’t a baby anymore. Will you dare to trust in the risen Lord to be Lord of your life?

Take Home Nugget

We should all be rejoicing, every day and in all situations. Jesus has come to set us free (from sin), to bless us with hope for the future, and to offer us eternal life in heaven.

Joyful living for Jesus followers is a certainty—because we base living on Christ.

J.D. Griffith

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Miraculous Gift

2011-12-23T06:00:00.001-05:00

MIRACULOUS GIFT

Matthew 1:18-25

Vv. 20-21“…Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save the people from their sins.” Blue font are words from an angel of the Lord.

The Christmas story, recorded in Matthew and Luke, is the most familiar story in the Bible. Jesus’ birth is often the Bible’s favorite story—rightly so—because it speaks of the most Miraculous Gift ever given. Let’s never gloss over the story just because we’ve heard it so often. The Christmas story deserves full attention every time we hear it, because it’s the Father’s miraculous gift of salvation to a fallen people.

This familiar deserves attention because it contains hidden clues about how to achieve victory in our own lives. Notice that Mary surrendered herself to the Lord for His purpose, although it caused her confusion and ridicule (RID-e-kule means mockery and scorn). Joseph surrendered himself to the Lord for His purpose, even though he became the laughing stock of a small town. The shepherds surrendered themselves to the Lord for His purpose, and walked to Bethlehem to discover the miraculous gift. The Wise Men surrendered themselves to the Lord for His purpose, and followed a star that led them to the miraculous gift.

Jesus surrendered Himself to the Lord for His purpose—and died a torturous death on the cross—presenting us His shed blood as the miraculous gift. Only Jesus knew the outcome of these surrendered lives. Everyone else was delightfully surprised. Each one took the step of faith by surrendering lives to the Lord for His purpose, and achieved profound (pro-FOUND means intense or extreme) victory.

The Miraculous Gift of God’s Son Jesus—and that belief in Him achieves everlasting life—is a profound delight that shouldn’t surprise believers. The gift of faith is what we all believe and stand firmly upon. Faith is a miracle, too.

What gifts are you presenting to loved ones this Christmas?

Take Home Nugget

The nugget today is the “surrender ourselves to the Lord for His purpose” clue that achieves victory in our own lives. The outcome is never anything we know. But the Christmas story shows us that the result of a surrendered life to the Lord for His purpose guarantees victory and delight. Faith never knows where it’s being led, but loves the One Who’s leading.

J.D. Griffith

To follow the leading of God,

To step out in faith and obey,

Is always the path we should take

Whenever we can’t see the way.

Sper

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL BELIEVERS IN THE WORLD!

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Best Gift: Assurance

2011-12-20T06:00:00.008-05:00

BEST GIFT: ASSURANCE

Colossians 3:16-17

“Therefore do not let anyone judge you by what you eat or drink, or with regard to a religious festival, a New Moon celebration or a Sabbath day. These are a shadow of things that were to come; the reality, however, is found in Christ.”

“Let’s talk some more” Greg said at recess from 4th grade. He threw the baseball to Miguel, asking, “How do we KNOW FOR SURE that we’re going to heaven?”

Miguel caught the ball, and stopped. “That’s heavy, Greg….For one thing, the Holy Spirit is the deposit that seals us for eternal life” (Ephesians 4:30). Throwing back the ball, he said, “Don’t let anyone steal your joy by criticizing your belief, or how you live. We’re different from the other guys.”

“How so?” Greg caught the ball, throwing it back.

“You and I are brothers in Christ” (2Corinthians 5:17). Miguel grounded the ball to Greg. “Our adoption into God’s family is a sure thing. Nothing we do risks losing that.”

Greg fielded the grounder. “Wow, that’s so cool!” He threw the ball back to Miguel. “I don’t make as many mistakes as I used to, but I’m sure to mess up again. What happens then?”

Giggling, Miguel caught the ball. “Just tell God that you’re sorry. He’ll forgive you, and you’ll be tight with Him again” (1John 1:9).

Most saved people question their salvation at some point. Frustration brings doubt about important issues. Here’re three tools that measure salvation, below. Answer “Yes” to them, and your salvation is certain, no question….Ready?

1. Do you trust Scripture? Acts 16:31 says, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved.” Either people believe that Jesus’ death on the cross paid for sins, or they don’t. (John 3:16).

2. Do you believe in the presence of the Holy Spirit? Whoever believes in Jesus receives the indwelling power of One Who is greater than the world (1John 4:4). He identifies us as God’s kids (Romans 8:16).

3. Do you live like Jesus’ disciple? Those who are in Christ are a new creation (2Coringhitans 5:17). Transformation means changes to life’s old ways. Our new nature serves the Lord.

Your innermost desires reflect whom you serve. I agree with Greg when he said in God is Good, God is Great devotion, “The worst thing is to not believe in Jesus.”

Take Home Nugget

Of course believers still sin. No matter how crooked our walk, the Holy Spirit isn’t shy to convict us of sin. His tug of guilt over sin is the final test of assurance that we’re secure in God’s grip.

I don’t care what others say,

My walk is Jesus’ way.

Although I occasionally still sin,

I know in the end who’ll win.

J.D. Griffith

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Mind-Blowing Wealth

2011-12-16T06:00:00.020-05:00

MIND-BLOWING WEALTH

Ephesians 1:3-14

Vv. 4-6: “For He chose us in Him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in His sight. In love, He predestined us to be adopted as His sons through Jesus Christ, in accordance to His pleasure and will—to the praise of His glorious grace, which He has freely given us in the One He loves.”

Remember how God’s pleasure and will works everything out for our good in God is Good, God is Great devotion? This devotion will prove that!

“Want to play catch?” Miguel asked his classmate, Greg, at recess from the 4th grade.

“I just need to blow off steam, I’m so mad!” Greg threw the ball hard into his gloved hand.

“Why” Miguel wondered.

“My Dad just lost his job. We may have to move—and it’s almost Christmas!”

Miguel’s concern showed on his furrowed brow. “That’s tough, Greg. I am really sorry….But you’re a Christian, right?”

Greg nodded his head, catching another hard-thrown ball. Turning to face Miguel he asked, “What’s that got to do with it?”

“Everything! Whenever I get down, I remember that Jesus died for me, and how rich I am as a Christian.”

Miguel’s right. Christians are heirs to mind-blowing wealth! Our inheritance will never perish, spoil, or fade. It’s reserved for us in heaven right now (1Peter 1:4). In fact, followers of Jesus already have it!

Ephesians 1:11 says, “In Him [Jesus] we are chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of Him Who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of His will.” This treasure isn’t earned; it comes because of whose we are. The deal is sealed with the indwelling Holy Spirit, Who guarantees promised eternal life.

This seal shows Who owns and has authority over us. This seal guarantees freedom, salvation, and resurrection from death! What else is our inheritance? Most of the delight is beyond earthly understanding, but Scripture gives us a sneak preview. Our weak human bodies and souls will be transformed into what will never wear out. We’ll have glorious bodies, and be free from sin and death (Philippians 3:20-21).

After talking awhile, Greg smiled at Miguel. “You’re right, Miguel. I shouldn’t think of my troubles as the worst thing in the world. The worst thing is not believing in Jesus!”

Take Home Nugget

God blesses His kids with mind-blowing riches to show us “the incomparable riches of His grace expressed in His kindness toward us in Christ Jesus” (Ephesians 2:7). This amazing goodness should inspire us to devote each day to live for Him.

J.D. Griffith

“Whatever is done in love for Christ

Will one day have heaven’s reward;

Today let’s do what we can for Him,

Our loving Savior and Lord.

Hess

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God is Good, God is Great

2011-12-13T06:00:00.019-05:00

GOD IS GOOD, GOD IS GREAT

Matthew 19:17

“‘Why do you ask Me about what is good?’ Jesus replied. ‘There is only One Who is good.’”

Psalm 145:3

“Great is the Lord and most worthy of praise; His greatness no one can fathom.”

“God is good. God is great. Let us thank Him for our food. Amen.” third-grader Benjy prayed at the table. Smiling, he snatched a hot dog from the platter. “How do I know that God is good and great?” he took a bite and began chewing. “Thur times thuff ith bad” he tried saying.

“You know better than to talk with a full mouth” Benjy’s Mom chided.

“Yeah, you know better!” Benjy’s twin brother, Danny, echoed. He kicked Benjy and grabbed a hot dog. “God is good and great ‘cause He gives us stuff to eat!”

Danny’s right…to a point. But what if we don’t have anything to eat? Is God still good? How can we say that God is good and great when we’re sad, sick, or hungry?

“God is good and great all the time” is the Christian’s worldview.

We find evidence of God’s goodness and greatness on every page of the Bible. God does whatever pleases Him, but He always works toward achieving His purpose. He works every situation—about which I know nothing, nor could understand if I did know—for the good for those who love Him and are called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28). God’s running the whole universe, including our lives (even though we think that we’re in charge).

That’s humbling. We can believe that God is good, because goodness is His nature. He cannot act otherwise than what is His nature. He cannot lie, for example. Doesn’t that give you pause?

Knowing that God is good provides courage to cry out for help when we’re freaked. He promises to provide for every need. We’re content, because if we need anything else, He’d give it to us (Matthew 6:8).

To say that God is great acknowledges that He’s sovereign (SOV-rin means supreme ruler), not limited by anything. He naturally works things out for good and He gets the glory. That’s right. God works everything out for your good and His glory. Believing that God is good and great encourages us to praise and thank Him. “For Thine is the kingdom, the power, and the glory forever” (at the end of the Lord’s Prayer) affirms our belief that the glory belongs to Him.

Take Home Nugget

Some only say, “God is good” when things go their way. If their God is good only in good times, then their God is not the God of the Bible!

Blessings, goodness and greatness in God I find.

Believing this simply blows my mind!

J.D. Griffith

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Forever Presence

2011-12-09T06:00:00.021-05:00

FOREVER PRESENCE

Psalm 100:1-2

The Message: “On your feet now—applaud God! Bring a gift of laughter, sing yourselves into His presence.”

God is God everywhere, all the time. There is nowhere to flee to where God isn’t. Is this comforting or does it make you feel invaded to acknowledge that God’s presence always surrounds you? When do you recognize His presence? Is His presence felt more when surprised with something wonderful, or in extraordinary circumstances? Do people usually sense God’s presence in dreadful situations? Can you admit that God’s presence is felt ESPECIALLY when we sin?

Ezra, a priest and teacher of the Law of Moses, arrived in Jerusalem. He was shocked to observe forbidden things. A few thousand Israelites had returned after being exiled to Babylon. The city needed so much repair, after Babylonian destruction and looting. Ezra went to help rebuild the Temple, and found God’s gracious hand amidst the rubble (Ezra 8:18). But he also saw intermarriage between the Israelites and the neighboring peoples—Canaanites, Moabites, Egyptians, and Amorites—whose detestable practices they began adopting (Ezra 9:1-2).

Ezra tore his robes, pulled hair out from his head and beard. He sat down horrified (Ezra 9:3). The people got it that he recognized their disobedience. Whoever trembled, or felt guilty, gathered ‘round to hear Ezra’s prayer (Ezra 9:4-6). This scene witnesses how we can relate to God’s presence when we sin. God’s eyes pierce each of His children, one by one.

Each believer can relate to the Israelites’ guilt and sadness. God’s presence is truly felt when we’re plagued (PLAGED means overwhelmed, weighted down) with shame.

The Holy Spirit urges repentance from sin at these times. When we truly ask for forgiveness, and turn back to righteousness living, our relationship with God is restored. His presence often warms hearts after sincere repentance.

1John 1:9 says: “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” Can you relate to God’s warm touch after you repent of sin?

Take Home Nugget

Let us practice the presence of God with song and laughter every day. Although we do not always feel His presence and love, it surrounds and protects us 24/7. God made us and determined our time of life, even the exact place where we live. In Him we live and move and have our being (Acts 18:26-28).

Holy Father, we feel loved knowing that You are with us no matter where we are. Thank You for guilty consciences, and the privilege of praying for repentance of sin. We love that welcome pulse of warmth deep inside when we sense that we’re forgiven and reconciled (REK-on-siled means restored) to Your embrace in love. Amen

J.D. Griffith

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God's Names

2011-12-06T06:00:00.047-05:00

GOD’S NAMES

Psalm 52:9

“I will praise You forever for what You have done; in Your name I will hope, for Your name is good. I will praise You in the presence of Your saints.”

Previous God’s Name devotion urged readers to stop saying, “Oh my God!” as a point of emphasis in casual conversation. Saying that phrase is irreverent; totally disrespectful speech referring to the creator of the universe. And whoever says that phrase—other than when in dire need for God to save—will be punished. (Maybe not immediately, but eventually. The Bible puts great emphasis on names).

This new devotion intends to sow seeds of revering God with how we speak His name. God has many names, and they stand for: His character, Who He is, and what He does. They represent the principles and promises in the Bible. Check out God’s names, below:

Name / What it means

Yahweh or Jehovah / God is the self-existent and independent One

El Shaddai / Almighty God

El Elyon / God Most High

Yahweh-Jireh / The Lord will provide

Yahweh-Tsidkenu / The Lord our righteousness

Elohim / Creator Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Singular name using plural verb agreement.

El Roi / the God Who sees

El Shaddai / the All-Sufficient One

Adonai / the Lord

Jehovah-Rapha / the Lord Who heals

Jehovah-Shalom / the Lord is peace

Jehovah-Raah / the Lord my Shepherd

El Elyon / Supreme Ruler

Moses was nervous about leading the Israelites out of Egypt. He asked God how he’d answer if they asked him who sent him to lead them. God told Moses, “Tell them I AM sent me to you” (Exodus 4:14). Who would dare argue with that?

Ancient banners were made out of wood or metal. Shaped into various emblems, they were then fastened to the bare staff of a long pole. These banners often served as a rallying point for troops in battle, announcing victory. They stood for the ideals and aspirations of whomever carried them, arousing devotion to a nation, a cause, or a leader. When Moses led the Israelites into battle against the Amalekites, he held a banner calling on God’s power. This banner was named Yahweh Nissi which meant the Lord is my Banner.

Take Home Nugget

Our Brother Jesus introduced a new name for His Father, God. When we believe in Jesus, God becomes our Father, too. Jesus invites us to address the Creator of the universe as Father (Romans 8:15). How cool! We may call God by the family name, Abba, or Dad!
Can you agree to never profane our Daddy’s name anymore?

Father God is one totally cool Dude!

He hears every plea and meets every need.

How could we be so thoughtless, so rude

To Him in thought, speech, and deed?

J.D. Griffith

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God's Name

2011-12-02T06:00:00.016-05:00

GOD’S NAME

Deuteronomy 5:11

“You shall not misuse the name of the Lord your God, for the Lord will not hold anyone guiltless who misuses His name.”

Wanda and 6th-grade classmate, Trina, claimed two seats at the swing set during recess. Trina looked around, and whispered, “This 9th-grader named Donovan spoke to me at the skating rink last weekend. And, oh my God, he is sooooooo cute!”

“What did he say?”

“He said, ‘You skate like a pro!’ And I got so nervous that I, oh my God, I actually burped in his face!”

“Oh my God, Trina! How can you recover from that?”

How does someone recover from a horrible mistake, especially when it’s so in-your-face public? How embarrassing! While we may get used to apologizing to others for silly, stupid things we do, it’s quite another thing to do something that offends on purpose. And it looked to Donovan that Trina purposefully burped in his face—after he complimented her skating!

OMG has become a frequent cool texting term. The spoken words sprinkle freely in daily conversation today. It could truly mean that one is super stunned and unable to deal with something. But more often, it’s not a cry out to our holy Lord. It’s become an adverbial phrase for "can you believe it"? Or a response that means, "impossible", or "how awful!"

In fact hearing it has become so common today that it can actually be justified saying it with the excuse, “everyone’s saying it!” But those who do so either don’t know, or don’t care what the consequences (KON-see-QUEN-ses mean result or outcome) are of saying this phase in vain. Vain (vane) means hopeless, ineffective, unproductive, worthless, OR proud, arrogant, self-important, conceited.

Using this phrase is like swearing the Lord’s name. It is irreverent (ir-REV-er-ant means disrespectful, flippant) speech. It’s used on purpose today, for emphasis of importance. Using it freely sprinkled in speech or text means that the user doesn’t fear God, or doesn’t know the consequences, cost, or penalty for abusing Gods name. The only way God’s kids can recover from this mistake is to confess the sin.

God’s command in the opening Scripture isn’t a suggestion. He doesn’t rather we don’t take His name in vain. He doesn’t love us so much that He’ll overlook hearing it from us. In fact, He is just, so He must punish those who use His name in vain! This Scripture is both warning and declared punishment for whoever uses His name improperly. What God promises, He delivers.

Take Home Nugget

The devil’s #1 strategy is to get you to ignore God’s commands. If you’re guilty of this sin, confess it to God and carefully watch your speech!

Guard thoughts closely. They can become words at any time.

J.D. Griffith

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Consider

2011-11-29T06:00:00.016-05:00

CONSIDER

James 1:2-4, 12

The Message vv. 2-4: “Consider it a sheer gift, friends, when tests and challenges come at you from all sides. You know that under pressure, your faith-life is forced into the open and shows its true colors. So don’t try to get out of anything prematurely. Let it do its work so that you become mature and well-developed, not deficient in any way.”

Today challenges us more than yesterday. Tomorrow may be even harder to get through. We saw that when Sarah acted out prematurely (pre-ma-TUR-lee means ahead of time, hastily, rashly), God’s best wasn’t received. (See I’ve Got it, and So Far, So Good? devotions). And we saw that Jacob’s struggle with God to claim His blessing was God’s best in Worth the Struggle devotion.

“Consider” is an accounting term that means to evaluate (e-VAL-u-ate means measure or calculate). James wrote these words to encourage us to evaluate our troubles as seen from God’s eyes. James is offering us a divine perspective, instead of viewing hardship from a human point-of-view. Surprising benefits to struggling through suffering and hardship are revealed when seen through the Father’s eyes.

We saw Jeremy cheer Benjy’s victory against his twin brother, Danny, in Worth the Struggle devotion. Can you imagine that Jesus and James are cheering for your victory in every struggle? Humanly speaking, trials hurt. But in God’s view, struggles help. They help by evaluating how we respond to difficulty. Let us “consider” what God wants trials to accomplish in His kids’ lives. Every difficulty tests, measures, and grows our faith. God notices our growth, (and we can, too). The next test finds us dealing with, or putting up with the trial better. (Less drama, less emotional wear-and-tear).

Into every struggle, our Father has hidden a beautiful character gem. Whether we grow or mark time (remain unchanged) during trials is seen by how these gems shine. Are we more patient? Are we more considerate of others? Every choice we make, every response to hardship measures our transformation into Christ-likeness. This is the Father’s goal.

How far do you “consider” you are from being like Jesus? The closer we get, the more we rejoice when facing yet another trial. This was James’ point.

Take Home Nugget

None of us want to struggle through pain, but it’s unavoidable in today’s fallen world. Why not respond to trials with an eternal point–of –view? Why waste your struggle? When we cooperate with the Holy Spirit (instead of refusing to grow) our character gems will be polished into a brilliant sparkling shine—noticeable by all.

J.D. Griffith

You’ve given us Your Spirit Lord,

To help us grow, mature, and learn.

Teach us from Your written Word,

So truth from error we’ll discern.

Sper

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Relationship Love

2011-11-25T06:00:00.104-05:00

RELATIONSHIP LOVE

JOHN 14:21

The Message: “The person who knows My commandments and keeps them, that’s who loves Me. And the person who loves Me will be loved by My Father, and I will love him and make Myself plain to him.”

(Jesus' words are in Red font; the Father’s words are in Purple font.)

“God, are You there?”

“I’m listening.”

“It’s Frank. You may not know me, but Jesus sent me.”

“Welcome!” Door opens wide to show a great cloud. “You’re coming on the best recommendation! Come in. Sit down. What can I do for you, Frank?”

“Well, uh, I’m embarrassed to say.” Hear feet shuffling. “I’ve ignored you all my life.” Pause. “But I’ve fallen and need Your help. Will You help me? Please?”

“Tell Me all about it, Frank.”

“Well, I’ve got this roofing business. Many people are depending on me, and my company’s success. We’re doing pretty well, too. But yesterday I fell off a roof. I can’t move, or even open my eyes. My wife’s holding my hand. I can hear her reading from the Bible. I hear her prayers for me to wake up. We’ve got three kids. She needs to be home to take care of them!”

“Lisa is very dear to Me. She never stops trying to get you to worship Me.”

“Yeah, tell me about it.”

“So what’s your problem, Frank?”

“I didn’t think I had a problem.”

“And yet here you are.”

“Right. Here’s the thing: I need to get well and return to work. Seasonal businesses end in bad weather, and it’s almost winter!”

“So?”

“You don’t get it! Cold weather kills my work. I’ve got to get back to it, Lord. This last project will feed us through the winter. I can’t be off now!”

“Did you just call me Lord?”

“Uh. I don’t remember. I suppose I did. Jesus is with me, urging me to pray. He coached me to repent of my sins. He wants me to admit that You don’t owe me a thing.”

“And…”

“Jesus said to mention His Name. If I could only get on my knees…”

“Don’t worry about that.”

“I deserve nothing from You, Lord. I repent of my drinking and gambling. I just want to win the lottery so that I can take care of everyone!”

“That’s your excuse?”

“Yeah.” Gulp. “I promise to stop that…if You’ll just heal me.”

“Your sins are forgiven, Frank. Wake up and begin serving Me now. If you love Me with your whole heart, I will give you the desires of your heart!” (Psalm 37:4).

Take Home Nugget

Frank opened his eyes.

There is One Who all my needs knows.

Addressing these He promises to supply

Answers to all my woes,

When in faith to Him I cry.

J.D. Griffith

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Miraculous Gift

2011-11-23T06:00:00.037-05:00

MIRACULOUS GIFT

Matthew 1:18-25

Vv. 20-21

“…Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save the people from their sins.” Blue font are words from an angel of the Lord.

The Christmas story, recorded in Matthew and Luke, is the most familiar story in the Bible. Jesus’ birth is often the Bible’s favorite story—rightly so—because it speaks of the most miraculous gift ever given. Let’s never gloss over the story just because we’ve heard it so often. The Christmas story deserves full attention every time we hear it, because it’s the Father’s miraculous gift of salvation to a fallen people.

This familiar deserves attention because it contains hidden clues about how to achieve victory in our own lives. Notice that Mary surrendered herself to the Lord for His purpose, although it caused her confusion and ridicule (RID-e-kule means mockery and scorn). Joseph surrendered himself to the Lord for His purpose, even though he became the laughing stock of a small town. The shepherds surrendered themselves to the Lord for His purpose, and walked to Bethlehem to discover the miraculous gift. The Wise Men surrendered themselves to the Lord for His purpose, and followed a star that led them to the miraculous gift.

Jesus surrendered Himself to the Lord for His purpose—and died a torturous death on the cross—presenting us His shed blood as the miraculous gift. Only Jesus knew the outcome of these surrendered lives. Everyone else was delightfully surprised. Each one took the step of faith by surrendering lives to the Lord for His purpose, and achieved profound (pro-FOUND means intense or extreme) victory.

The miraculous gift of God’s Son Jesus—and that belief in Him achieves everlasting life—is a profound delight that shouldn’t surprise believers. The gift of faith is what we all believe and stand firmly upon. Faith is a miracle, too.

What gifts are you presenting to loved ones this Christmas?

Take Home Nugget

The nugget today is the “surrender ourselves to the Lord for His purpose” clue that achieves victory in our own lives. The outcome is never anything we know. But the Christmas story shows us that the result of a surrendered life to the Lord for His purpose guarantees victory and delight. Faith never knows where it’s being led, but loves the One Who’s leading.

J.D. Griffith

To follow the leading of God,

To step out in faith and obey,

Is always the path we should take

Whenever we can’t see the way.

Sper

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL BELIEVERS IN THE WORLD!

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Worth the Struggle

2011-11-22T06:00:00.007-05:00

WORTH THE STRUGGLE

Genesis 32:28

“Then the man said, ‘Your name will no longer be Jacob, but Israel, because you have struggled with God and with men and have overcome.’”

Ten year old Jeremy urged his little cousin Benjy, “Come on, you can take him!”

Eight year old Benjy grunted while wrestling his twin brother, Danny, on the family room carpet. Smells of Thanksgiving dinner wafted through the house. Danny and Benjy continued wrestling until Mom called, “Dinner!”

The nation of Israel was born during an intense struggle between Jacob and God. The God’s Best devotional series taught that Christians claim Abraham as the patriarch of their faith in God, passed to us through Isaac and Jacob. Jacob could teach us all a lesson about not giving up with struggle. We should thank God for every struggle.

Jacob’s life was one of skill, deception and disappointment (see lesson). After he deceived his father, Isaac—into blessing him instead of his older twin, Esau—struggle became his life. Jacob worked seven years to marry Rachel. When he discovered that Leah was his wife, Jacob worked another seven years for Rachel (Genesis 29:16-30).

But throughout Jacob’s trial-filled life, he wanted a relationship with God more than anything. He was determined to struggle to get what he wanted. Camping alone near the banks of the Jabbok River, Jacob was challenged to a wrestling match. Lasting until dawn, Jacob refused to give up until his opponent, a “man,” touched Jacob’s hip. From that moment, Jacob walked with a limp (Genesis 32:22-32).

The opening Scripture tells us that the “man” renamed Jacob, Israel. Why? Jacob’s struggle taught him dependence on God. Let believers not be deceived: Life will be hard from time to time. Just because life’s hard is no excuse for us to give up. God hasn’t let us down. He’ll never abandon us!

The “man” Jacob wrestled was God Himself. (Why the Man's words are in purple in the opening). God assumed a form that Jacob could wrestle, and went easy on Jacob. Jacob's limp reminded him to whom he belonged, Who's really in charge.

Won’t you remember Jacob and give God thanks for your struggles this Thanksgiving? They could be your biggest blessing!

Take Home Nugget

Jacob=Israel now. The man=the country Israel, today. A people and a nation were born that day, almost 4,000 years ago. The twelve tribes of Israel are Jacob’s sons: Reuben, Simeon, Levi, Judah, Dan, Naphtali, Gad, Asher, Issachar, Zebulun, Joseph, and Benjamin. Jacob’s adoption of Joseph’s sons, Manasseh and Ephraim, took Joseph’s place, and became heads of tribes.

Jacob’s descendents are known as the children of Israel, God’s chosen people.

God’s present in every trouble.

Forget the hardship, forget the pain.

God’s worth your intense struggle--

Let hallelujahs be your refrain!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO EVERYONE WHO CELEBRATES THE HOLIDAY

J.D. Griffith

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This is My Land

2011-11-18T06:00:00.011-05:00

THIS IS MY LAND

Seventh of seven in God’s Best devotion series.

Genesis 26:1-6

Vv. 2-6: “The Lord appeared to Isaac and said, ‘Do not go down to Egypt; live in the land where I tell you to live. Stay in this land for awhile, and I will be with you and I will bless you. For to you and your descendents I will give all these lands and will confirm the oath I swore to your father, Abraham. I will make your descendents as numerous as the stars in the sky and will give them all these lands, and through all your offspring all the nations on earth will be blessed, because Abraham obeyed Me and kept My requirements, My commands, My decrees and My laws.’ So Isaac stayed in Gerar.”

This map shows Gerar to be in south Canaan. The Mediterranean Sea is west of Canaan.

Gerar is also known as Tel Haror, Tell Abu Hureireh, or Geder. God’s covenant with Abraham shows his descendents include most of the world’s population, (Arabs, Jews, and Christians are blessed through Abraham). As many as stars in the sky! God’s covenant included land as an everlasting possession (Genesis 17:8). That land is Canaan, or what is Israel today. Notice the cities with red dots: Jerusalem, Bethlehem, Gerar, especially.

Water is always an issue in the desert. Abraham and Isaac were both forced to dig wells for their survival. Well issues caused them to move on after settling down.

“Then Isaac moved away from [city of Gerar] and encamped in the Valley of Gerar and settled there. Isaac reopened the wells that had been dug in the time of his father, Abraham, which the Philistines had stopped up after Abraham died, and he gave them the same names his father had given therm.” (Genesis 26:17-18).

Isaac and Ishmael settled in different parts of the Middle East. While Ishmael’s land spread far and wide, Canaan is a narrow strip (See Ishmael’s Claim devotion).

Take Home Nugget

God’s best only comes when we wait for His perfect timing in answer to prayer, or receiving His promise. Not waiting always leads to trouble. We just traced the tension in the Middle East today back thousands of years ago to the sons of Hagar and Sarah.
God’s everlasting covenant came from Abraham through Isaac (Genesis 17:19), and includes the land of Canaan (v. 8). But Abraham’s people didn’t honor their part of the covenant. Their disobedience caused God to scatter them, put them into bondage, and destroy their land. Many have returned to their homeland, Israel, but there’s no peace.

Waiting on and obeying God are two ways for believers to get His best. Won’t you consider this the next time you’re impatient when waiting for something?

J.D. Griffith

The stories in the Word of God

Are there for us to see

How God has worked in people’s lives

Throughout all history.

Sper

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Ishmael's Claim

2011-11-15T06:00:00.038-05:00

ISHMAEL’S CLAIM

Sixth of seven in God’s Best devotion series

Genesis 25:13-18

Vv. 13-15, 18: “These are the names of the sons of Ishmael, listed in order of their birth: Nebaioth the first-born of Ishmael, Kedar, Adbeel, Mibsam, Mishma, Dumah, Massa, Hadad, Tema, Jetur, Naphish, and Kedemah….His descendents settled in the area from Havilah to Shur, near the border of Egypt, as you go toward Assur. And they lived in hostility toward all their brothers.”

The darker green represents the Assyrian Empire until 824 B.C. The light green represents the Egyptian Kingdom and the Assyrian Empire before 671 B.C. (B.C. means Before Christ. Jesus’ birth reset our world’s date to 0. After year 0, we use A.D. (Anno Domini which means in the year of our Lord). Unrest throughout the Middle East began thousands of years ago. Ongoing wars changed ownership of lands from one kingdom to another. Ishmael’s descendents’ land overlapped where Isaac and his descendents settled in Canaan.

These lands, except for Canaan (Israel--tiny pink shoreline East of Mediterranean Sea), are Arab nations today:

Genesis 16:11-12 says the angel of the Lord told Hagar: “‘I will so increase your descendants that they will be too numerous to count.’ The angel of the Lord also said to her: ‘You are now with child and you will have a son. You shall call him Ishmael, for the Lord has heard your misery. He will be a wild donkey of a man; his hand will be against everyone and everyone’s hand against him, and he will live in hostility toward all his brothers.’” Emphasis mine.

What must Hagar have thought about Ishmael being a “wild donkey of a man?” What could that mean? It could mean that Ishmael would not be dependable. He might be unpredictable (un-pre-DICT-a-bl means erratic, impulsive, hot-tempered, unreliable.

How would your family describe you?

Take Home Nugget

Can you see why Sarah’s short-circuiting God’s promise forced a different path than what God intended for our best? (See I Got It! devotion).

J.D. Griffith

Whatever trouble may assail,

Of this we can be sure:

God’s promises can never fail,

They will always endure.

Hess

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WOW!

2011-11-11T06:00:00.022-05:00

WOW!

Fifth of seven in God’s Best devotion series

Genesis 21:1-3

“Now the Lord was gracious to Sarah as He had said, and the Lord did for Sarah what He had promised. Sarah became pregnant and bore a son to Abraham in his old age, at the very time God had promised him. Abraham gave the name Isaac to the son Sarah bore him.” Emphasis mine.

This God’s Best devotional series is designed to show you why the Middle East is a hotbed of conflict today. Arab nations surround one Jewish state, Israel (Canaan). God promised Abram in Genesis 12:7: “To your offspring I will give this land.” Where’s their peace? God’s best is only received when we wait on His timing.

How happy Sarah must have been—after waiting so many years—that God would bless her with a baby! She must have regretted not having Abraham’s first child, and all the conflict with Hagar! (See devotions I got it! and So Far, So Good?).

We certainly understand Sarah’s frustration. Waiting patiently for God’s best sometimes seems impossible. We learn as we grow. We also get to build faith on our journey, because Jesus is walking beside us.

Do you have any questions on this God’s Best devotional series? Sarah’s heartache didn’t sound like God’s best, did it? Believers aren’t promised a life of roses; we’re promised times of both joy and hardship (Psalm 4:7, James 1:2-8). Hardships test and teach God’s kids, purifying our faith (Job 23:10). If we never lack: needing, wanting, or suffering, we’d NEVER be tested. Why do some people fall apart when times get tough? How can others simply take hardship in stride (Psalm 16:8)?

Some people make life look easy—rolling with the flow however life tilts—whatever the storms. Sure they get disappointed when things go wrong. They could face difficulties on every side, but always end on their feet. They may not get what’s happening, but are never depressed. Despite getting punched out and bullied, they continue to bounce back—and are stronger for it (1Corinthians 4:12-13, 2Corinthians 4:8-9).

It certainly isn’t God’s will that we suffer, but it IS His will that we be transformed into the likeness of His Son, Jesus (Romans 8:29). Jesus showed us how to live courageously and sinlessly all the way to victory. He never short-circuited the Father’s will (like Sarah did in I Got It! devotion). Jesus refrained from using His divinity when times got tough, even willingly dying on the cross! Jesus shows us how to wait on the Father’s timing to get His best.

Take Home Nugget

While it took many years for Sarah to finally give birth to Isaac, she would be the first one to encourage us to hold firm to what God promises, and believe that it’ll happen. Sarah chose the hard road to receiving her promise. Won’t you think about Sarah the next time you’re tired of waiting for God’s best?

As a believer, trust that in all life’s setbacks, God’s plotting for your best.

J.D. Griffith

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But...

2011-11-09T06:00:00.022-05:00

BUT…

Fourth of seven in God’s Best devotion series

Genesis 17:18-22

Vv. 18-21: “And Abraham said to God, ‘If only Ishmael might live under Your blessing!’ Then God said, ‘Yes, but your wife Sarah will bear you a son, and you will call him Isaac. I will establish My covenant with him as an everlasting covenant for his descendents after him. And as for Ishmael, I have heard you: I will surely bless him; I will make him fruitful and will greatly increase his numbers. He will be the father of twelve rulers, and I will make him into a great nation. But My covenant I will establish with Isaac, whom Sarah will bear to you by this time next year.’”

This God’s Best devotional series is designed to show you why the Middle East is a hotbed of conflict today. Arab nations surround one Jewish state, Israel (Canaan). God promised Abram in Genesis 12:7: “To your offspring I will give this land.” Where’s their peace? God’s best is only received when we wait on His timing.

The title of this devotion, But…has a flip side. First, Abraham wanted to ensure that Ishmael would also receive God’s blessings, but God wanted to impress upon Abraham that His everlasting covenant would come through Isaac. Can you see God’s frustration with Abraham? Pleasing kids isn’t easy, especially when they have their own ideas.

Genesis 18 shows that something astonishing happened next. Abraham saw three men standing near to the entrance of his tent. He rushed up to them, and bowed low to the ground (a show of respect). He begged them to stay, offering them hospitality. He hoped that refreshment would entice them to hang around. But why?

Abraham must have guessed the importance of this unexpected visit. He brought water for the men to wash their feet (feet get dusty wearing sandals when walking in the desert). After everything was prepared, Abraham brought them meat from a choice calf, fresh bread, and milk. While they were eating, Abraham stood close by under a different tree. (Another sign of respect). “Where is Sarah?” they asked Abraham.

“In the tent” Abraham answered. (Sarah was listening, hiding behind the tent flap).

The Lord responded, “I will return about this time next year, after you and Sarah have a son.” (Genesis 18:10).

“Sarah laughed to herself, thinking, After I am worn out, and my master is old, will I have this pleasure?” (Genesis 18:12). But Sarah must have been overjoyed.

“Why are you laughing?” the Lord asked.

“I wasn’t laughing” Sarah lied, blushing.

“Yes you were! Is anything too hard for the Lord?” (Genesis 18:14).

Take Home Nugget

Isn’t it embarrassing when you’re caught in a lie? But red-faced Sarah might was probably too thrilled to be upset.

Abraham walked with the men a ways, and was told that all nations of the world will be blessed through him. Check out Genesis 18:1-15 to see if one of the men wasn’t the Lord, Himself!

Faith is confident that God ALWAYS does what He promises.

J.D. Griffith

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So Far, So Good?

2011-11-07T06:00:00.005-05:00

SO FAR, SO GOOD?

Third of seven in God’s Best devotion series

Genesis 17:1-16

Vv. 5-8, 15: [The Lord said] “No longer will you be called Abram; your name will be Abraham, for I have made you the father of many nations. I will make you very fruitful; I will make nations of you, and kings will come from you. I will establish My covenant as an everlasting covenant between Me and you and your descendents after you for the generations to come, to be your God and the God of your descendents after you. The whole land of Canaan, where you are now an alien, I will give as an everlasting possession to you and your descendents after you; and I will be their God….As for Sarai your wife, you are no longer to call her Sarai; her name will be Sarah. I will bless her and will surely give you a son by her, I will bless her so that she will be the mother of nations; kings of peoples will come from her.”

This God’s Best devotional series is designed to show you why the Middle East is a hotbed of conflict today. Why can’t Israel live in peace? Arab nations surround one Jewish state, Israel (Canaan). God’s best is only received when we wait on His timing.

More than ten years have passed since Sarai gave Hagar to Abram to be his wife. (See I’ve Got it! devotion). Now that God changed their names, their lives would certainly be different.

Why would godly people (Abraham and Sarah) choose a path of self-sufficiency? (Self-suf-ISH-in-see means ability to satisfy one’s needs). Intense desire clouds one’s thinking. Desperation (des-per-A-shon means hopeless despair) comes when one isn’t thinking straight. (Indeed, the devil tempts God’s kids to give in to desperation). Why would God Almighty EVER need our help to deliver one of His promises? From a human standpoint, we simply get tired of waiting.

No one is immune to impatience. The danger of strong desire, human reasoning, and others’ influence, is giving into bad judgment. We justify taking action, because “waiting” seems non-productive. We think it’s good to attack a problem with action (what it means to be pro-active).

But, God’s best is achieved ONLY when His kids wait for His perfect timing. (God’s way always runs counter to human logic or instinct). When waiting on God becomes an attitude we choose, we’re fruitful for the Lord. We grow in trust and obedience to Him. We see how God works, and that increases our faith.

Take Home Nugget

Trouble in Abraham’s household started after Hagar got pregnant. Genesis 16:4-6 says that Hagar hated Sarah. Sarah grew jealous, and blamed Abraham. Abraham told Sarah to do what she thought best. So Sarah mistreated Hagar, and Hagar left Sarah’s house. Check out the lesson to this devotion to see where Hagar went.

J.D. Griffith

Oh what peace we often forfeit,

O what needless pain we bear;

All because we do not carry

Everything to God in prayer.

Scriven

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I've Got It!

2011-11-04T06:00:00.020-04:00

I’VE GOT IT!

Second of seven in God’s Best devotion series

Genesis 16:1-6

Vv. 1-3: “Now Sarai, Abram’s wife, had borne him no children. But she had an Egyptian maidservant named Hagar; so she said to Abram, ‘The Lord has kept me from having children. Go, sleep with my maidservant; perhaps I can build a family through her.’ Abram agreed to what Sarai said. So after Abram had been living in Canaan ten years, Sarai his wife took her Egyptian maidservant Hagar and gave her to her husband to be his wife.”

This God’s Best devotional series is designed to show you why the Middle East is a hotbed of conflict today. Why can’t Israel live in peace? Arab nations surround one Jewish state, Israel (Canaan). God promised Abram in Genesis 12:7: “To your offspring I will give this land.” God’s best is only received when we wait on His timing.

Today, when a couple has trouble having a baby, they can get help from a doctor. While Brad’s Mom and Dad have this option, it’s very expensive. But Sarai didn’t have this choice. (See The Promise devotion).

We live in a fast-paced world, and are used to quick results. Fast food restaurants offer quick meals. Equipped with drive-through lanes—to pay for and pick up food without even having to stop and get out of the car—makes these restaurants very popular. The Internet and search engines, such as Google or Bing, supply answers to every question we think to ask. Who has the time to look things up in books today? Have people stopped waiting on God for His best because waiting takes too long?

So, it’s easy for us to understand that Sarai wasn’t interested in waiting any longer. It had already been ten years, and still no baby. Did God forget? Sarai probably wondered. She must have known that she was past the age to have children (Genesis17:17, 18:11). Desperate, Sarai must have decided to “help.”

Perhaps she surprised Abram. “Guess what honey, I decided to give you Hagar to be your wife, too. She can begin our family. Won’t the Lord be pleased that we came up with a way to fulfill His promise?” (Did she even pray about her decision, or discuss her idea with Hagar?)

“Uh, I don’t know, Sarai” Abram might have replied. “It IS an interesting idea. Let me think about it.” Finally, Abram agreed to Sarai’s plan, and married Hagar. (He could have refused.)

Take Home Nugget

Apparently, “waiting” isn’t natural for humans. After all, patience (PA-shins means enduring without complaint) is one of the fruits of God’s Spirit (Galatians 5:22). When we step out of God’s plan and take matters into our own hands, we NEVER receive God’s best.

Hallelujah to God, Who is able

To promise what’s ALWAYS true!

Give me patience to remain in Your timetable

Lord. Give me assurance when I don’t have a clue.

J.D. Griffith

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The Promise

2011-11-01T06:00:00.019-04:00

THE PROMISE

First of seven in God’s Best devotion series

Genesis 13:14-17

Verse 16: [The Lord said to Abram] “I will make your offspring like the dust of the earth, so that if anyone could count the dust, then your offspring could be counted.”

This God’s Best devotional series is designed to show you why the Middle East is a hotbed of conflict today. Why can’t Israel live in peace? Arab nations surround one Jewish state, Israel (Canaan). God promised Abram in Genesis 12:7: “To your offspring I will give this land.” God’s best is only received when we wait on His timing.

Brad stopped short when racing through the kitchen on his way outside. His brow wrinkled as he asked, “What’s wrong, Mom?”

Brad’s Mom sniffed, and wiped her eyes while sitting at the table. She forced a smile. “Nothing’s wrong, don’t worry.”

“But you NEVER cry! Tell me what’s wrong” Brad pleaded.

“Well, Dad and I want to give you a brother or sister. But…”

“But what, Ma?”

“We’ll just have to trust God.” She patted Brad’s hand. “Go outside and play.”

Offspring are children. God promised Abram as many offspring as the dust of the earth. WOW! All in one house? Where does it begin? One child grows up, gets married, and has kids. Two children grow up, get married, and have kids. Offspring multiply. The more kids a couple have, the more offspring. It begins with one child.

Just like Brad’s Mom, Sarai, Abram’s wife, wanted to have a child. Unlike today, where women often get jobs outside the home, women’s job back in Abram’s time was to have children. The more children a woman had, the greater her worth. Sarai must have felt like a failure, and a disappointment to her husband, Abram. That doesn’t seem fair, does it?

It takes a man and a woman to make a baby. Some men and women can have physical problems that interfere with having children. When a woman got pregnant after waiting a long time in the Bible, it says that God “opened her womb” (Genesis 29:31, 30:22). This issue can be very frustrating for some women.

So, Sarai must have been delighted when Abram told her God’s promise. No longer would she be mocked by others. She must have clung to that promise, sure that she would get pregnant soon. But that didn’t happen. Not after one month. Not after one year. It took more than ten years for Sarai to hold her baby boy in her arms.

Was the delay because Sarai’s and Abram’s faith was weak? Can God forget His promises?

Take Home Nugget

Weak faith is different from having no faith. God often grows His kids’ faith through tests and trials. When we feel weak, we can ask Him for more faith (Luke 17:5). God always provides what we need, especially when we ask (James 4:2).

It often helps how we feel

When afraid and totally alone,

To cling to the Almighty with zeal—

What the greatest saints have always known.

J.D. Griffith

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Trick or Treat

2011-10-28T06:00:00.021-04:00

TRICK OR TREAT

John 1:29

“The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, ‘Look, the Lamb of God, Who takes away the sin of the world!’”

“Trick or Treat!” a group of kids on the front porch screamed when Shakira’s Mom opened the front door.

“Don’t you all look great?” Shakira’s Mom exclaimed. “Are you Cassie?” she asked a candy striper.

Cassie lifted her mask. “I knew you’d guess who I was, Aunt Donna!” She chose a PayDay candy bar. “Thank you! Can you guess who these other kids are?”

As the bowl was passed around to all the kids who were dressed up in various costumes, each one took a piece of candy. As they turned to leave, each one said, “Thank you!”

Over two thousand years ago, a man was traveling incognito (in-kog-NEE-toe means disguised). This guy looked like an ordinary person, but He was totally different from what everyone guessed. Because he wasn’t wearing a crown or purple robes, no one recognized Him as royalty. This guy was the Son of God! But, He looked ordinary. Just like you or me.

This is typical when Jesus isn't recognized for who He is. After all, who would have guessed that Messiah would be born in a stable? And even if Jesus was recognized as royalty, no one thought that Messiah would die on a cross to pay for people's sins. They expected Messiah to come and free people from the Romans. They expected a politician! Or at least, they expected a soldier.

Jesus isn’t what anyone expects—yesterday or today. But He is the perfect One to knock on the door of our hearts (Matthew 7:7, Revelation 3:20). Jesus enters as King to anyone who welcomes Him into the heart. Jesus brings gifts. Forgiveness of sins, salvation, and eternal life are treats for whoever welcomes Him inside their heart. Instead of our treating Jesus, He brings treats for us!

Jesus is King in the spiritual kingdom. He’s already defeated all opponents, including death and the devil. When He comes knocking, won’t you welcome Him inside? He’s the best Friend, and He’s the best Master. Jesus willingly serves us, doing whatever is necessary to give people a saving knowledge of God.

Have you thanked Jesus for the treats He brought you?

Take Home Nugget

In Jesus’ time, the bondservant had the worst job. This task was to wash the feet of everyone entering the house (people wore sandals and walked on dusty streets). Jesus even performed this task—willingly! The night before His Passion week began, Jesus served by washing His disciples’ feet (John 13:4-16).

Peter was uncomfortable by Jesus' service. But in the end, we all Thank Jesus for His working out our salvation--what a treat!

Jesus took my place and bore my sin.

So I, guilty, could eternal life win!

J.D. Griffith

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Church

2011-10-25T18:02:00.025-04:00

CHURCH

Fourth of four in Tent of Meeting devotion Series

John 12:24-26

Verse 26: [Jesus replied] “Whoever serves Me must follow Me; and where I am, My servant will also be. My Father will honor the one who serves Me.”

This four devotion series shows where people have met, and still meet with God. But way more than structures, church represents:

A. Community. Church is where people live out their faith, worship, and learn godly values.

B. The church is also the entire world of believers in Christ. We represent Christ’s Church—His bride—so named in Revelation 19:7, 22:17. 2 Corinthians 5:20 calls believers Christ’s ambassadors, 2 Timothy 2:3 names believers Christ’s soldiers, and we’re called saints in Ephesians 2:19. Christians need one another. We support and encourage each other, serving the One Who protects and sustains us through life’s difficulties. The highest honor that anyone can receive is to be called servant of the Most High God!

Those who die to self (put others’ needs ahead of their own), may not be highly regarded by the world’s standards. But they are #1 in God’s kingdom. Serving God is not limited to what happens within church buildings. While Pastors, Priests, or Rabbis lead their congregations in worship and prayer, choirs sing and lead others in praise. Cooks and servers feed people. House-keepers, broom sweepers, and file clerks also serve the Most High God.

Everyone who gives 100% effort to everyday tasks—impacts others around them—and serves the Living God. Serving Jesus isn’t about WHAT task we do, but rather HOW we accomplish assigned tasks. Following and serving Jesus is all about an attitude of humility, motivated by reaching out to others with the love of God.

What else about church?

Take Home Nugget

C. God’s eternal light never goes out, never even dims. The Israelites pressed clear oil from olives to keep lamps burning in the Tent of Meeting 24/7 (Exodus 27:20-21). Everywhere throughout the world, the eternal flame is universally recognized as a symbol. It honors a person, or group of people connected to some event. It represents God’s eternal presence.

Eternal flames can be found at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and President John F. Kennedy’s gravesite in the U.S.A. In Israel, an eternal flame burns at Yad Vashem, the official memorial to Jewish Holocaust victims.

The Olympic Games host the eternal flame, which circulates to countries around the world.

In synagogues, the Temple menorah’s continuously burning lamp is never out. A sanctuary lamp is found in Christian churches, representing either the Blessed Sacrament, or God’s presence. The eternal light is believers' call to be God’s light in the world, by acts of kindness, compassion, and charity.

J.D. Griffith

Lord, grant me a heart of compassion

So burdened for others’ needs

That I will show Your kindness

In attitudes, words, and deeds.

Fitzhugh

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Temple/Synagogue

2011-10-21T17:54:00.021-04:00

TEMPLE/SYNAGOGUE

Third of four in Tent of Meeting devotion Series

1Kings 8:10-13

“When the priests withdrew from the Holy Place, the cloud filled the temple of the Lord. And the priests could not perform their service because of the cloud, for the glory of the Lord filled His temple. Then Solomon said, ‘The Lord has said that He would dwell in a dark cloud: I have indeed built a magnificent temple for You, a place for You to dwell forever.’”

The Tent of Meeting and the Tabernacle were temporary houses for communing with God. They were used for fellowship and worship, too. The Israelites grew accustomed to God’s presence in a cloud, as He led them out of Egypt to Canaan. (First Moses, then Joshua led them to their promised land—from books Exodus through Deuteronomy in the Bible's Old Testament). Even though David wanted to build a house for the Lord, God told him that another would do it (2Samuel 7:13). That job (honor) fell to David’s son, Solomon.

The glorious Temple that Solomon built continued as the center of community for the Jewish people (the Israelites). Five hundred years before Christ, centuries after Solomon built the Temple, it was destroyed. Herod built a second temple, but Jesus told His disciples that, it too would be destroyed (Matthew 24:2). That happened in year 70, and the Jewish people were scattered to the four corners of the earth. From then, to now, hundreds of synagogues (SIN-a-GOGS) have been built in Israel and beyond. These are still where Jewish people gather together.

The synagogue is where people nourish their faith, where God’s Word is studied. In fact, Jesus did much of His teaching and preaching in the local synagogues. Just like today, people meet in synagogues in times of sorrow, and in times of joy. They assemble there to worship and pray. It’s their communal study hall, where kids and adults go to learn the Bible. Synagogues also are bases for social and humanitarian work.

God knew that His kids would need a “house,” or resting place, where we could meet with each other and with Him. Our primary responsibilities are to God—focusing on His will for our lives, obeying His commands, worshiping Him, and Bible study.

For Jews, this “house” is the synagogue, for Christians, it’s the church.

Take Home Nugget

Just like Miguel and Jules’ 4th grade classroom, where school is where kids meet to learn and grow, everyone needs a house where we go to grow in Christ.

God Himself is with you—

Savior, Keeper, Friend.

He will never leave you, too,

Nor forsake you to life’s end.

J.D. Griffith

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Tabernacle

2011-10-18T06:00:00.020-04:00

TABERNACLE

Second of four in Tent of Meeting devotion Series

Isaiah 66:1

“This is what the Lord says: ‘Heaven is My throne,

And the earth is My footstool.

Where is there the house you will build for Me?

Where will My resting place be?’”

Jules answered correctly in Tent of Meeting devotion. Once the kids understood the down side of having fun when their 4-grade teacher, Ms. Landis, stepped out of the classroom, they stopped. (Well, mostly, anyway.) But Jules, more than the other kids, know that rules are important. Being Jewish, she learned how specifically God instructed Moses about the tabernacle’s construction (Exodus 36-40), even down to the priest’s garments.

That little Tent of Meeting became a large, portable worship center called the Tabernacle. Exodus 35 shows how Moses got the Israelites to donate their precious gems, gold, silver, and bronze for the materials to use in obedience to the Lord’s instructions. They donated scarlet, blue, and purple yarn, fine linen, goat hair, ram skins dyed red. Acadia wood, olive oil to light the lanterns, spices for anointing oil and fragrant incense were collected. Everyone who was skilled at doing stuff contributed their time and talent to building the Tabernacle (Exodus 36:2).

The very fact that God approved of and instructed Moses how to make a place for His residence ought to be encouraging for every believer. God is not some distant disinterested custodian of His creation. Quite the opposite is true! He repeatedly reaches out to people, eager to form relationships with each of us. He longs to live among us; His choice home is our hearts.

Spending time in Bible study welcomes Him to “tabernacle” (TAB-er-NAK-le can also be used as a verb that means to meet) with us. He sent His Son Jesus, to die on the cross so that we can be rejoined to the Father. (Jesus’ name, Immanuel, means God with us—Matthew 1:23). God also gave us His Holy Spirit, who indwells whoever believes in Jesus.

Take Home Nugget

Building the Tabernacle of the Lord was much more than just constructing a home for God to reside. The lesson was a bonding of man to his Creator: a Father instructing His child. Moses showed all God’s kids how to obey instructions—to the letter. The Father’s directions are never meant to be a burden. They demonstrate His unquestionable authority and holiness.

Our lesson is to approach Holy God on His terms, and not our own.

Do the 4th graders get the lesson yet?

How cool that God loves the specifics of me!

His loving care and guidance is individual, you see.

You’ll never be me, and you I could never be.

This relationship cannot be bought at any fee!

J.D. Griffith

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Tent of Meeting

2011-10-14T06:00:00.006-04:00

TENT OF MEETING

First of four devotions in Tent of Meeting Series

Exodus 33:7-10

“Now Moses used to take a tent and pitch it outside the camp some distance away, calling it the ‘tent of meeting.’ Anyone inquiring of the Lord would go to the tent of meeting outside the camp. And whenever Moses went out to the tent, all the people rose and stood at the entrances to their tents, watching Moses until he entered the tent. As Moses went into the tent, the pillar of cloud would come down and stay at the entrance, while the Lord spoke to Moses. Whenever the people saw the pillar of cloud standing at the entrance to the tent, they all stood and worshipped, each at the entrance to his tent.”

Ms. Landis charged her 4th grade students, “I expect more from you. For the next five minutes, I want you to lay your heads down on your desks. Close your eyes, and think about why I’m so angry.”

Thousands of people (mostly men) flock to the Western Wall in Jerusalem to pray. They find privacy amidst the throng crammed against the wall, and speak to God. Often, they slip folds of paper with written prayer requests in the cracks of the wall for God to answer. Each man wears a shawl, called a talith, draped over his head.

The prayer shawl is named from two words. “Tal” means tent, and “ith” means little. Jewish people continue following this custom today because of its meaning. They envision that when wearing prayer shawls over their heads, their entire beings are devoted to fulfilling and following God’s Word. The shawls are personal prayer closets, little tents of meeting.

Inside these prayer closets, each person speaks to God privately and intimately. And like Moses, they KNOW that He hears them. Not a bad idea, is it? Many faithful Christians wear a head covering to church. Piety (PI-e-tee means godliness) and modesty (MOD-es-tee means reserved, humility) are two reasons that Christians wear head scarfs. Many faiths, Judaism and Islam for example, forbid women to be seen in public with their hair flowing freely.

Where do you speak to God? Inside your bedroom? No matter where we meet God in prayer, we can imagine that we’re inside a little tent of meeting.

Take Home Nugget

“OK. Miguel, can you tell me why I am angry at the class today?” Ms. Landis asked.

Miguel raised his head. “Well, we acted up when you left the room for a couple minutes.”

“And, Jules, why should I trust you in the future?”

“Uh, because we learned our lesson?”

Holy Father, I admit that I disobeyed You today. Please help me, through Your Son Jesus, to obey every command from now on. Amen.

J.D. Griffith

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The Taste Berry

2011-10-11T06:00:00.018-04:00

THE TASTE BERRY

Psalm 40:3

“He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God.”

“Ugh!” Jeremy said, spitting out a mouthful into his napkin. “That’s disgusting!”

“What?” Brad wondered.

“The sandwich Mom made me is awful!” Jeremy picked out his apple, balled up the lunch bag, and tossed it into the trash.

“Maybe your sandwich went bad, like because it was out of the refrigerator too long?” Brad suggested.

Did you ever hear the phrase, “it left a sour taste in his mouth?” This can mean anything that went wrong. The person is left feeling robbed, and grumpy. After a “sour” taste coats one’s taste buds, nothing afterward is any good. But just because Jeremy’s sandwich was awful, his day can proceed without a sour attitude. His day isn’t wasted. It’s his choice.

There is a fruit in Africa called the Taste Berry. These little beauties alter a person’s taste buds for many hours after eating them—so that whatever is eaten afterwards tastes sweet.

Wouldn’t it be cool to eat a taste berry before you’re forced to eat something that you hate? Well, consider that praise is the taste berry that alters a Christian’s life. After one thing goes wrong in your day, gulp a taste berry. See if the world doesn’t change immediately…from downer to upper. It’s all about attitude, Jeremy.

But there’s more concerning taste berries. When we start our prayers with praise, suddenly our focus isn’t on the issues we’re praying about. Praising God reminds us of all the things that we have to thank Him for. And isn’t it interesting that salvation and forgiveness of sins come to mind at the end of our list? “Things” usually are what we name first—rather than people, and eternal gifts. How about God’s faithful undying love for us?

By the time we add, “Your will be done,” our trials seem manageable. How does that work? Boy, those taste berries sure are powerful! Ending our prayers with praise shores up the fact that regardless of what we’re going through, God deserves all the glory and honor. Just for creating us, and for endless blessings—He’s all that—and bigger than our greatest need.

Yeah, “taste berries” can transform more than our taste buds!

Take Home Nugget

Let’s check out Jeremy’s attitude now. “Thanks for splitting your sandwich with me, Brad.”

“No prob. Do you want one of my cookies?”

“Sure. Thanks! Today’s a perfect day for football practice. We’re getting better every game.”

“Yeah, we may even go all the way!”

Sweetening our prayers with praise

Alters outlook and attitude.

Thanks are easy words to raise

God smiles when hearing our gratitude.

Devoted to Berry Dries Kleintop, my Mother.

J.D. Griffith

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Jaw-Dropping Awesome

2011-10-07T06:00:00.037-04:00

JAW-DROPPING AWESOME

Isaiah 41:17-20

Verse 18: “I will make rivers flow on barren heights, and springs within the valleys. I will turn the desert into pools of water, and the parched ground into springs.”

Inside Floral Showcase greenhouse is a sign that reads, “Enter, friends, and view God’s pleasant handiwork, the embroidery of earth.” This botanical garden, on the Canadian side of Niagara Falls, houses beautiful flowers and exotic plants of awe-inspiring splendor1. We just finished the Alphabet of God’s Promises devotions—and this devotion is to remind His kids how our heavenly Father adorns our home with majestic beauty.

Weren’t His promises amazing? God meets, and often exceeds, every need we have. How many times does it happen, often even before you pray, that His gift lands in your lap? Spooky, huh? Let’s just take a day off, and rest in God’s splendor.

If you’ve never been to the lush rainforests of Brazil, imagine green deep and long as far as the eye can see. Dense, humid heat—flush with life—erupts critters, big and small. The teeming forest chatters and flutters to life. Looking right, then left, you suck in air so moist that your breath wrings it out. A creepy feeling floods a sense that we’re not alone; many eyes are watching.

Zoom to the top of a glacier, at the top of the world. The starkly forbidden Arctic Circle icy winds automatically wrap arms around us. Frosty air chills our lungs all the way down to our toes. The snowy white polar bears stare us down, daring us to stay. Blue white feels so lonely, that we hate to leave.

Vibrantly multicolored, fertile Serengeti, in Africa, awakens senses as though from a deep sleep. Giraffes, elephants, and lions stalk, fully aware of our presence. Here, we tiptoe, breathing in pregnant energy. Surely, life originated in Africa!

Tornado Alley, Kansas, USA, welcomes you with soft breath. Your bare feet are swift, racing a tumbleweed to the road where eighteen wheelers dominate. Wheat sway to the tune of “Stay for Dinner.” Feeling at home, even the rabbits don’t run away. Licking your lips, you taste the abundance of the breadbasket—the North American plains—which could feed the whole world.

Take Home Nugget

Scripture displays pictures of individual wonders of God’s creative handiwork. From vast landscapes to one flawless rose, God paints our world. His colors are richer and more dramatic than we could imagine. His creation a wonder. Such a splendorous display deserves our praise for God’s “embroidery of earth.”

J.D. Griffith

If God’s creation helps you see

What wonders He can do

Then trust the many promises

That He has given you.

D. De Haan

1”Embroidery of Earth.” Dave Branon. Our Daily Bread. Michigan, USA. August 13, 2011.

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God's Alphabet Promises 2 of 2

2011-10-04T06:00:00.050-04:00

GOD’S ALPHABET PROMISES 2/2

Part two of two

Galatians 3:14

“He redeemed us in order that the blessing given to Abraham might come to the Gentiles through Christ Jesus, so that by faith we might receive the promise of the Spirit.”

The first part of God’s Alphabet Promises whet appetites of God’s generosity to every child who believes in His Son, Jesus. These are the tip of the promises iceberg I found in my Bible’s Concordance. (Kon-KOR-dans is a dictionary of words found in the Bible). For each letter, there are many more that could have been included. Let’s see how many different promises you can think of.

No [condemnation]. Romans 8:1 promises: “there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”

Orphans. In John 14:18, Jesus promises: “I will not leave you as orphans, I will come to you.”

Prepare. In John 14:2, Jesus promises: “In My Father’s house are many rooms; if it weren’t so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you.”

Quiet. Zephaniah 3:17b promises: “He will take great delight in you, He will quiet you with His love, He will rejoice over you with singing.”

Rainbow. Genesis 9:13-16 promises: “I have set My rainbow in the clouds, and it will be a sign of the covenant between Me and the earth…never again will the waters become a flood to destroy all life.”

Savior. Titus 2:13 promises: “…we wait for the blessed hope—the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ,…”

Twinkling. 1Corinthians 15:52 promises: “… in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet…the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed.”

Universe. Philippians 2:15 promises: [Do everything without complaining or arguing] “…so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and deprived generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe.”

Victory. 1Corinthians 15:57 guarantees: “But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”

Weak. 2Corinthians 12:10 promises in Christ: “For when I am weak, then I am strong.”

eXtends. Luke 1:50 promises: “His mercy extends to those who fear Him.”

Yes. 1Corinthians 1:20: “No matter how many promises God has made, they are “Yes” in Christ.

Zion. Romans 11:26 promises “And so all Israel will be saved, as it is written: ‘The deliverer will come from Zion…’”

See also Isaiah 59:20. The deliverer is Christ, the Messiah. A perfect way to end God’s alphabet promises!

Take Home Nugget

I hope that these two devotions have filled you with joy. How generous is our God!

Holy Father, We thank You for Your awesome promises to us who believe in Your Son, Jesus! Amen.

J.D. Griffith

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God's Alphabet Promises 1 of 2

2011-09-30T06:00:00.042-04:00

GOD’S ALPHABET PROMISES 1/2

Part one of two

Deuteronomy 26:19

“He has declared that He will set you in praise, fame, and honor high above all the nations He has made and that you will be a people holy to the Lord your God, as He promised.”

In God is God & We’re Not devotion, we learned that our Almighty Father understands His kids’ weaknesses. We don’t always believe another’s promise to us. It’s often necessary to swear by someone, (or something), or pledge an oath before others believe promises made. But we’re mere mortal humans.

Our Creator has no such problem. And yet, He swears by Himself (there’s nothing greater) to guarantee that we can believe His promises! Wouldn’t you agree that He goes to great lengths to win our love? Check out the below for half the alphabet list of God’s promises.

Approach. Ephesians 3:12 promises: “In Him and through faith in Him we may approach God in freedom and confidence.”

Beloved. Deuteronomy 33:12 promises: “Let the beloved of the Lord rest secure in Him, for He shields him all day long, and the one the Lord loves rests between His shoulders.”

Called. 1Corinthians 7:15b promises: “God has called us to live in peace.”

Day. Deuteronomy 26:18 promises: “The Lord has declared this day that you are His people, His treasured possession as He promised…”

Enjoyment. 1Timothy 6:17 promises: “[Command those…to] put their hope in God, Who richly provides everything for our enjoyment.”

Future. Romans 8:38-39 promises: “[For I am convinced that] neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else is all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

Glorified. Romans 8:30 promises “those He justified, He also glorified.”

Heavenly. 2Timothy 4:18 promises: “The Lord will rescue me from every evil attack and bring me safely to His heavenly kingdom.”

Interceding. Romans 8:34 promises: “Who is he that condemns? Christ Jesus—Who died—more than that Who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us.”

Justified. Romans 8:30 promises: “those He called, He also justified,”

Knock. Matthew 7:7 promises: “Ask and it will be given to you, seek and you will find, knock and the door will be opened to you.”

Leads. Psalm 23:2 promises: “He leads me to quiet waters.”

Mercy. 1Peter 1:3 guarantees: “In His great mercy He has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead…”

Take Home Nugget

Check out the next devotion for the completion of God’s Alphabet of Promises.

God always performs what He promises.

J.D. Griffith

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God is God & We're Not

2011-09-27T06:00:00.017-04:00

GOD IS GOD & WE’RE NOT

Hebrews 6:13

“When God made His promise to Abraham, since there was no one greater than Him to swear by, He swore by Himself…”

“I promise” ten-year-old Cassie said to eight-year-old Shakira.

“Cross your heart and hope to die?” Shakira asked.

“If you keep dropping my pass, I swear I’ll…” ten-year-old Jeremy said to his classmate, Brad, as they played football at recess.

“You’ll what?” Brad wondered.

Swearing by something, and making oaths began after humans sinned. Why isn’t simply stating something good enough? Needing confirmation, corroboration, and verification are strictly human traits. (Kon-fir-MA-shon, kor-ROB-or-a-shon, and ver-if-i-KA-shon) all mean that something is true. The opening Scripture shows that God knows human weaknesses very well. We need guarantees before believing anything.

God also knows that humans need promises. “He swore by Himself” guarantees God’s unchanging character. If God were to change, His swearing by Himself would be pointless. While man’s word is not always trustworthy, God’s Word is absolute. His Word is truthful, dependable—in and of itself. He must have chuckled when swearing on Himself!

God’s ways are far beyond our ways; His thoughts much higher than our thoughts (Isaiah 55:9). As sovereign Creator—Who maintains all things perfectly—God’s got every right to do whatever and whenever He pleases (Psalm 115:3).

But God’s character has many sides. He’s not only demanding; He’s also tender. He put Adam and Eve in charge of His entire creation. Their playground was the Garden of Eden! They feared nothing. They had all good things to eat—except fruit from one specific tree, the tree of knowledge of good and evil (Genesis 2:15-17).

After they ate the forbidden fruit, they suddenly understood. They were wrong. They realized that they were naked. They hid. They lied to God. They blamed others, rather than accept responsibility for the deed. Does the scene of God confronting them in Genesis 3:8-19 remind you of when someone caught you doing something bad?

Now, check out Genesis 3:21. Our Father made garments of skin for Adam and Eve, and clothed them. Then, verses 23-24 shows how they were banished from paradise.

This is the very picture of mercy (refraining from giving us what we deserve) and grace (giving blessings that we don’t deserve).

God isn’t always easy to understand.

Take Home Nugget

While silly humans love to challenge and play games, our Father does, too. Remember, we’re created in His image (Genesis 1:26). The thing is, He ALWAYS gets His way. He always wins. Know that Scripture will say stuff that we don’t always understand, or won’t necessarily agree with.

Holy Father, In Jesus’ Name, help me accept Your goodness, while agreeing that You always have the final say. Amen.

J.D. Griffith

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Out-Of-Bounds

2011-09-23T06:00:00.018-04:00

OUT-OF-BOUNDS

Psalm 16:5-6

“Lord, You have assigned me my portion and my cup; You have made my lot secure. The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places; surely I have a delightful inheritance.”

Jeremy waved his schoolmates over at recess, football in hand. “Let’s play some football up on the terrace” he urged.

“Yeah! Good idea” the guys agreed, running to the terrace.

“The trees and the fence will be out-of-bounds on each side. Past the last basketball hoop here, and the gravel area down there will be the end zones. Pick your teams, guys.” Jeremy said.

Out-of-bounds marks where play stops—where the ball is “dead.” Markers for fair-play game zones are necessary. Unbiased game, points earned, and rules are unquestioned when boundaries are established. Recess is too short to finish a football game, but no one cares. It’s still fun.

The prophet Jeremiah warned Judah about their continued living outside God’s out-of-bounds. The Israelites were disobedient and rebellious. They didn’t fear, or obey God, Who blessed them with rain that nourished their crops. They got rich by cheating. They didn’t even take care of the poor, or defend the orphaned. (Jeremiah 5:21-31).

God never changes. The Bible spells out our heavenly Father’s moral boundaries to live by. His out-of-bounds markers are everlasting—that which we still may not cross—to attain life’s best. Out-of-bounds are established to prevent us harm, and are not intended to frustrate. What if God had not created land to keep the ocean where it belongs? All the land would be covered up! Every creation needs to learn, and obey its out-of- bounds.

The sea sends waves that pound the sandy beach every few seconds—as though it’s begging for something. But the moon determines when the waves recede further out to the ocean. Recess is over when low tide arrives every day, like clockwork. Sometimes wind whips up a storm, causing angry waves that roar when pounding the beach. But the sea knows that the land is out-of-bounds (Jeremiah 5:22). It doesn’t care. Pounding the beach is still fun.

In like matter, God’s kids sometimes “kick up a storm.” No matter. He’s still God, and He’s still in control.

Take Home Nugget

God gave us parents who teach kids what’s allowed, and what’s not. We learn early about out-of-bounds, and the word, “No!” We learn where we may play, when to come home, and how we’re to act. We learn manners, we learn about love and hate. We learn how to use utensils to eat. Parents’ out-of-bounds behavior is taught so that others will like us.

God’s commands rain down as hail

And we’re told to obey.

Our human ideas will only fail

When we insist, anyway!

J.D. Griffith

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Difference

2011-09-20T06:00:00.023-04:00

DIFFERENCE

1John 4:9-10

“This is how God showed His love among us: He sent His one and only Son into the world that we might live through Him. This is love: not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.”

Did Missy’s assumption (ass-UMPT-shon means guess) about Nila being Muslim—because she wore a head scarf—bother you? (See Lying Eyes devotion). Cassie discovered that Nila is recovering from chemotherapy (ke-mo-THER-a-pee is a medical treatment that causes hair to fallout).

Lying Eyes teaches that using only one sense—what’s seen—can lead people to wrong conclusions. (No one can read minds, or see inside another’s heart). We won’t grow until we stop judging others just by how they look. We’re often wrong, even after forming opinions (o-PIN-yons come from tested judgments) based on all our senses!

Is Missy’s comment, “Is she Muslim?” a big deal? Millions of people around the world are Muslim. There are also millions of Hindus, Jews, Christians, Buddhists, Taoists, Zoroastrians—as well as atheists (A-the-ists are people who don’t believe in God). We’re to love others, but we note the difference with people from other faiths.

So, what’s the big deal?

Christianity is unique among all the world’s religions. This is anchored in the fact that God sent His Son to die for humankind. Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross bought forgiveness of sin and eternal salvation, for all who believe. Radical Islam challenges believers to send their sons to die for god. BIG difference, wouldn’t you say?

When Christians accept everything that Jesus’ death on the cross achieved, all we have to do is rest in Him. Our eternal salvation is secure. There’s nothing to add. The price of our sin debt has been paid-in-full. Just before Jesus died, He said, “It is finished.” (John 19:30). God is satisfied with what Jesus did. What else could we possibly add?

But people often don’t get it. Many want to do something to earn a gift. If you aren’t satisfied with Jesus’ free gift, then by all means, do something. Knock yourself out.

Take Home Nugget

But whoever accepts this awesome gift, also has assurance: We’re certain that when we die, we’re also going to heaven. Even the worst sinner can be saved—anytime, anywhere. But Heaven’s door is only open for those who are saved by faith in Jesus Christ, God’s Son. Do you see the sign, “Enter by Grace?” That means there’s nothing more we can do—or add—to claim our prize in confidence.

Holy Father, thank You for this awesome gift of forgiveness of sin, and eternal life with You! I claim my prize in the Name of Your Son, Jesus. Amen.

J.D. Griffith

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Lying Eyes

2011-09-16T06:00:00.016-04:00

LYING EYES

2Corinthians 5:12-21

The Message vv. 13-14: “If I acted crazy, I did it for God; if I acted overly serious, I did it for you. Christ’s love has moved me to such extremes. His love has the first and last word in everything we do.”

Cassie and Missy walked to their seats for the movie, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2. “The theater’s almost full!” Missy said. “Brad sure knows how to celebrate his 10th birthday….What’s up with her?”

Cassie looked where Missy pointed. “The girl with the head scarf?”

“Yeah. Is she Muslim?”

Who cares? The movie’s starting!”

When will God’s kids stop jumping to conclusions, or judging others just by their looks? What people see comes from only one sense. How can our eyes see truth instead of jumping to lies?

The first-century church was splintered because of race, language, and culture. The opening Scripture shows Paul teaching the Corinthians not to judge others by outward appearances. How people looked was more important to them than what was in another’s heart. “Because Christ died for all” Paul explained, “don’t judge others just by what’s seen on the outside.”

What’s wrong with this? Judging others by what we see is naïve (ni-EVE means childish). We may think we’re wise, but our senses are worldly. We take in crude, unfinished information—same as when judging people. God’s kids are being sanctified, (SANK-ti-fied means to grow in righteousness) daily. Because we’re made in the image of Almighty God, Jesus died on the cross for everyone. What must others have thought after hearing offensive, vulgar words spilling out of our mouths before we began following Jesus? (At least they formed their opinion based on two senses, sight and sound).

Paul reminded the Corinthians, “Those who saw the Messiah got it wrong, and crucified Him! Remember, anyone who comes to Christ by faith, gets a fresh start as a new person.” (Paul’s words are paraphrased from verses 14-16).

We often get things wrong, even when using all 5 of our senses!

Take Home Nugget

Cassie darted to the concession stand during Intermission. In line next to the girl with the head scarf, Cassie introduced herself. “Hi. I’m Cassie, Brad’s classmate in school. Isn’t this movie awesome?”

“It sure is! My name is Nila.” She patted her head, admitting, “My hair’s beginning to grow back, after chemo.”

“It’s nice to meet you, Nila.” Cassie said, clutching two drinks. “Later.”

“You too, Cassie!”

Cassie handed Missy her drink. “I met the scarf girl, whose hair hasn’t grown back yet, after chemo.”

First impressions are often misleading.

How can we peek inside another’s heart?

Eyes are one sense that can be misreading

The whole person instead of just one part.

J.D. Griffith

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No More Intense Love

2011-09-13T06:00:00.021-04:00

NO MORE INTENSE LOVE

John 15:12-14

The Message Verse 13: “This is the very best way to love. Put your life on the line for your friends.”

We learned in Dependence Advantages devotion that our parents instinctively love us—even when we’re bad. God’s love for His children extends why beyond our parent’s love. The proof is Romans 5:8. It says, “…God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Now reread the opening Scripture.

Did you catch Jesus’ last phrase about putting His life on the line for His friends? He was speaking to His disciples when He said this. How do you think they responded after hearing these words? Would you willingly die for your friends? But there’s more. You’re considered Jesus’ disciple, when you believe in and follow Him. Are you also Jesus’ friend? “You are My friends if you do what I command.” (John 15:14).

Jesus died on the cross for you. And, He also died on the cross for those who hate Him. Would you, could you die for someone who hates you? Now that’s intense love! We bond with other people. We work at building strong relationships with those we consider friends. We expect that friendships will last a lifetime, don’t we? Your lifetime, or their’s?

Long distance friendships are tough. Writing and calling seems weak when we can’t look into another’s eyes, walk along side, or laugh together at the same joke. Even though our best friends sometimes move away, we’re still friends. The bond you created isn’t easily broken. One of you would have to stop corresponding altogether for the friendship to die. And even after many years, a friendship can be re-ignited.

Even though Jesus is currently in Heaven, He’s right beside you. He’s listening and watching—totally immersed in your thoughts, passions, and activities. He hears your jokes, maybe even laughs with you. (Or maybe not). The point is that God’s love is so intense that He gave His Son to die on the cross for us. Forgiveness for our sins guarantees our eternal salvation.

Take Home Nugget

Jesus’ love for us is so intense that He willingly accepted being borm so that He could die. He agreed to be born into flesh as a mortal human baby. Nobody tricked Jesus. He understood completely why He came to Earth. How intense is His love for us that He would surrender His divinity! He learned as a baby to grow into adulthood, same as us. He’s cool with our (not so) long-distance relationship. Are you willing to maintain your friendship with King Jesus, or maybe re-ignite it?

God’s intense love for His children

Is shown by never forsaking our care.

His love is everlasting—

Even when we’re unaware.

J.D. Griffith

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Dependence Advantages

2011-09-09T06:00:00.008-04:00

DEPENDENCE ADVANTAGES

Exodus 3:1-22

Verse 19: “But I know that the king of Egypt won’t let you go unless I stretch out My hand and compel him.’”

Ten year old Jeremy read the return address on the envelope. “It’s from Brad, Mom!” Ripping open the envelope, he read the invitation in his hand. “It’s a free pass to Cinemaplex next Saturday—to see the last Harry Potter movie! Will you take me?”

“Of course I will! Is it Brad’s birthday?”

“So we’re OK, even after I stayed out too late riding my bike last night?”

Kids are dependent on parents, and that’s how things ought to be. God planned for parents to raise children, take care of them, and teach them correct behavior. Parents expect their kids to mess up. Love and forgiveness are like gloves covering hands in cold weather. Love covers exposed flesh—raw sin—and forgiveness soothes the ache.

Until kids grow up, dependence is something they don’t even think about. But when we learn to do stuff on our own, dependence becomes a bad word. Self-sufficient (suff-ISH-ant) is another word that means to be independent from need. Grown-ups are supposed to be independent, aren’t they?

One meaning of independence is the word, sovereign (SOV-ren means supreme, absolute). There is no one who is sovereign—except God! Self-sufficiency is how people get into trouble. Relying on self is ineffective, unproductive, and unsuccessful. Adults get very good at living, and earning their way in this world. But dependence on God is what every believer has in common—especially after learning the advantages—no matter their age.

Moses learned that independence brought him much hardship. (Murder, misunderstanding, and fright made him flee his home). It took him 40 years to learn the advantages of being dependent on God. He learned that cooperating with God, and surrendering to His way, brought him success in everything. But, first Moses had to become usable, humbled, broken of self-will.

Moses learned that dependence on God achieved: great things done in short time, successfully overcoming every obstacle, and ultimate victory. Moses freed 2 million people from Egypt, travelling on dry land across the Red Sea, and gathered them safely to their promised land.

Dependence on God also offers us second, third, and fourth chances as bonus advantages. How long will it take you to get this lesson?

Take Home Nugget

Brad confessed to Jeremy, “My Mom thought that the Harry Potter movie birthday party, over roller skating, would allow my wheel-chair buddy, Stephen, to have fun.” (See Radical Upside Down devotion).

Holy Father, I confess that I love being independent. But please teach me the advantages of being dependent on You. I’m asking You to teach me this lesson, in Jesus’ name. Amen.

J.D. Griffith

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Radically Upside Down

2011-09-06T06:00:00.023-04:00

RADICALLY UPSIDE DOWN

Luke 14:7-14

Vv. 13-14a: “But when you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind, and you will be blessed.”

“When’s your birthday?” Jeremy asked Brad while they tossed football at recess from fifth-grade.

“ October 1st. Remember last year?”

“ At your Pizza Hut birthday blowout, I ate pizza until I couldn’t move! What’s happening this year?”

“Not sure” Brad said.

Jesus introduces us to lifestyles that are radically different from how people tend to behave. In Jesus’ day, the Pharisees and other important folks scrambled for people’s attention. They loved the spotlight, and the special notice heaped upon them. They delighted in extra benefits, like front-row seats. Do you think anything’s changed from Jesus’ time?

Jesus told a parable (PAR-a-bl is a story with a lesson) about people who attended a party. Some people sat down in the best seats. When the guest-of-honor came, he told them to move. They were so embarrassed that they left the party.

Are you disappointed when you aren’t included in the popular cliques (KLIKS are a group of people) at school, at church, around your neighborhood? Made up of people who think they’re elite (e-LEET means the best, selected few), cliques tend to look down on others. They snub whoever they consider unworthy.

We’ve all been there.

Being excluded is a downer. But rather than getting upset, we can cop a different attitude. Our rutter (remember rutter, from Spiritual Rutter, a devotion in July) reminds us of times when God led us through trouble to personal victory. Every child of God is beloved! We can choose to believe God—step out in faith with a smile and head held high—regardless of how we’re treated.

“Will you invite that guy who’s in a wheel chair?” Jeremy asked.

Brad smiled. “You mean Steven—of course! He’s a great guy. That disease he has, muscular dystrophy (DIS-tro-fee), may keep him in a wheel chair, but he’s cool. You remember him from last year, he was the life of the party! But, there’s someone else” Brad continued. “I want to invite Phil, another football lover. He’s cool, but very poor. Mom gave him some of my clothes last week.”

Take Home Nugget

It seems that Jesus’ way hasn’t caught on yet, if we’re still struggling to bring outsiders inside our friendship circle. Jesus has a message for us: “Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted” (v.11). Exalted (ex-ALT-ed means to be lifted high in glory. In Jesus’ kingdom, humility trumps pride every time!

Holy Jesus, help me to be humble

Remove from my sinful pride.

Without Your help, I’m sure to stumble,

So keep me closely by Your side!

J.D. Griffith

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Labor Surprise

2011-09-02T06:00:00.017-04:00

LABOR SURPRISE

Ruth 1-4

The Message Ruth 2:2: “One day Ruth, the Moabite foreigner, said to Naomi, ‘I’m going to work; I’m going out to glean among the sheaves, following after some harvester who will treat me kindly.’”

Famine, death, and despair are desperate circumstances. Famine (FA-min means food shortage) was the reason Naomi decided to trek from Moab back to her hometown of Bethlehem, “House of food.” Naomi and her husband lived in Moab, where their two sons were born. Both the men married Moabite women. After ten years, Naomi and her two daughters-in-law buried all three men.

Three desperate widows headed for Bethlehem, where Naomi had family. On the road, Naomi encouraged her two daughters-in-law to return to their native land. One split. The other one, Ruth, decided to remain with Naomi (Ruth 1:14). While Ruth was not Jewish, she was introduced to God—the one Naomi worshipped (1:16). They arrived in Bethlehem at the beginning of barley harvest time.

The opening Scripture picks up the story here. Barley was the first of seasonal crop to ripen for harvesting, in April or May of each year. As a despised foreigner in a strange land, Ruth wanted to help. Harvesting barley had 8 steps, mostly done by men: 1) Cutting the ripened standing grain with a hand sickle. 2) Binding the grain into sheaves (SHE-ves are clusters of stalks)—usually done by women. 3) Gleaning collects the stalks of straw together, where many are often missed. This is where Ruth began her labor.

4) Transporting the sheaves to the threshing floor was done by donkey. 5) Threshing loosens the grain out from the straw stalks by winnowing. 6) Winnowing means to toss the grain into the air with huge forks. The afternoon wind blew the straw and chaff away, leaving the grain at the winnower’s feet. 7) Sifting the grain removed foreign matter. 8) The grain was bagged for transportation.

Now, a man named Boaz (from Naomi’s husband’s family), owned land. It was Boaz’s field where Ruth began gleaming behind the harvesters. Boaz asked his foreman about this woman, who was seen to work very hard. Boaz met Ruth, and encouraged her to continue gleaming behind his harvesters. He instructed his workers to let her keep all the grain she found.

Boaz learned about Naomi, and all that Ruth was doing for her (2:11). Impressed, Boaz married Ruth (4:10-13). Boaz and Ruth had a son, and named him Obed (Ruth 4:17), Ruth’s labor surprise.

Take Home Nugget

The baby Obed became an unimaginable blessing to us. This baby directly linked to the birth of the Messiah!

In all the setbacks of your life as a believer, God is plotting for your joy.” John Piper

HAPPY LABOR DAY!

J.D. Griffith

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Love-of-God Priority

2011-08-30T06:00:00.018-04:00

LOVE-OF-GOD PRIORITY

Revelation 2:1-7

Vv. 4-5: “Yet I have this against you: You have forgotten your first love. Remember the heights from which you have fallen! Repent and do the things you did at first; If you do not repent, I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place.”

The week before the beginning of school, sixth-grader, Wanda, met her friend, Cassie, (who’s entering fifth grade), at the swimming pool. Spreading her blanket on the ground, Wanda complained, “Do you believe that summer’s almost over?”

“Yeah, summer’s disappearing right before our eyes!” Cassie agreed. “So, what are your plans for this last week of vacation?”

“I’m babysitting Tyler Robinson on Friday night. He’s the cutest baby!”

“You just like flirting with his big brother, who’s even cuter.” Cassie insisted.

“Right. The job is a two-for-one.”

“Huh?”

“Well, I arrive for babysitting Tyler in my new outfit, and maybe David will open the door. How could he resist smiling, eager-to-please me?”

“That’s not how it works, Wanda!”

Cassie’s correct. The opening Scripture is clear. Everything we do ought to come from love for the Lord, instead of selfish gain. Jesus’ removing the lampstand from the church at Ephesus, is about immediate judgment! Wouldn’t you agree that’s stern warning?

While the Ephesus church began marvelously (love for God enabled the people to endure persecution, spread the gospel, and challenge false prophets), their priority changed. Good works, originally performed out of love for each other and for God, was replaced with self-seeking reward.

Admirable deeds may be praiseworthy—but truthfully, they count for nothing—unless achieved from a heart glowing with love for God. He is more interested in you, and the personal relationship you’re building together, than a lifetime of good works! God delights in His kids’ service only as a result of loving devotion to Him.

God wants everybody with selfish intentions to return to their first love—HIM! No amount of service substitutes for an intimate relationship with God. He’s our delight. The best good deeds are done to honor the Lord, and not to get credit.

Wanda was confused. “What do you mean?”

“Wanda, we babysit in order to earn money. You want David’s attention. But he’s 16! Why don’t you babysit Tyler, and earn your pay with nothing attached? I don’t want you to be disappointed after doing a good job, and then David doesn’t even notice you!”

Take Home Nugget

As the last of the original disciples, the apostle John wrote Revelation, the last book in the Bible. Of course he knew that his fellow apostle, Paul, had founded this church at Ephesus. How must Jesus’ words affected him?

Good deeds are only good when done out of love for God.

J.D. Griffith

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Inseparable Companions

2011-08-26T06:00:00.017-04:00

INSEPARABLE COMPANIONS

Romans 8:28-39

Vv. 38-39: “For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

Inseparable (in-SE-per-a-bl) means always together. God created humans to be together with Him forever—just like you and your best friend. Miguel and Bobby, Cassie and Missy, Jeremy and Brad in our devotions are best friends. I suppose that Creator, Sovereign God of the Universe would get pretty bored after awhile being alone. How cool that God created us—to keep Him company, for friendship....Possibly for entertainment?

Companion (kom-PAN-yon) means friend, or buddy. Another definition for companion is cohort (KO-hort), that means legion, army, gang, or follower. This is what our relationship to God is all about! He created millions of angels, and they’re His legions, or army. He created humans to be in His gang, friends with whom He can hang—forever.

God programmed us to have close personal interactions with Himself and each other. Evidence of God’s divine love is found in Genesis 1:26—we’re created in His image! His love for us is seen throughout the Bible. 1John 4:15 says plainly that God is love. As many relationships crumble in today’s world, how secure does it make you feel that you have one friend who will never desert you? The Father even sent His Son to be our big brother.

Jesus is way better than a human big brother. He’s also our Savior and Lord! His death on the cross bought forgiveness for all our sins (1Corinthians 15:3). John 15:15 claims that Jesus calls us friends. Trusting in Jesus wins our adoption into God’s family (Romans 8:15). Our Good Shepherd, Jesus, protects and provides for each of His siblings (John 10:11).

Following Jesus makes us His disciples, or His cohorts! We hang with Jesus—learning from his right living—taken directly from the Bible. John 14:26 talks about the Holy Spirit, Who intercedes (in-ter-SEEDS means intervenes or pleads) for us as we pray. He guides and strengthens us, too.

The Bible is clear: God loves us passionately!

Take Home Nugget

Thinking about the people you care most about offers a glimpse of how much God loves you. How you are treasured and adored! Now think of how you’d respond to your best friend if he or she were in need, and cried out to you for help.

Thank You, Father, for creating me to be Your friend.

In love, I want to give love back to You

We’re inseparable companions to the very end.

Thank You for every blessing, too!

J.D. Griffith

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Let's Feed Thousands!

2011-08-23T06:00:00.062-04:00

LET’S FEED THOUSANDS!

John 6:8-13

Verse 9: “Here is a boy with five small barley loaves and two small fish, but how far will they go among so many?”

Jesus surveyed the multitudes, then said to Andrew, “Bring him to Me. We’ll see if he’s willing to share his lunch.”

Andrew found the boy in the crowd. “Hi again” Andrew said, crouching down. Do you want to come with me and meet Jesus?”

“Yes! Cool!” the boy said, a smile stretching across his face. He picked up the cloth-wrapped food his Mom made for him. “Let’s go!”

Andrew took his hand. Cutting through the crowd, many people sitting on blankets on the ground, they arrived at Jesus’ feet. “Here he is, Master.”

Jesus stooped down in front of the boy. He said, “What’s your name, son?”

“Solomon.”

“Right. It’s so good to meet you, Solomon! Why have you walked so far to come here today?”

“I wanted to meet You, Jesus.”

“What a coincidence, I wanted to meet you, too! Lucky for us that your Mom made lunch for you to bring.”

“Yeah. I’m getting kinda hungry.”

“Will you share your lunch with Me, Solomon?”

“Sure, Jesus!” Solomon offered Jesus his food.

“Thank you very much.”

Solomon watched Jesus carefully unwrap the cloth. Raising His arms high, with the food stretched across the cloth, Jesus prayed, “Gracious Father in heaven, Solomon is sharing his lunch with Me. It’s My intent, Father, to feed thousands! We thank You for Solomon’s food. We thank You for his Mother, Martha, who gave him lunch to bring along on this journey to see Me. Bless us this food, nourish it to our bodies, and see that Solomon arrives home safely. By Your will, Father, feed us all! Amen.”

“How did You know my Mom’s name is Martha?”

“She’s My sister, Solomon.”

“What? Does that make You my uncle?”

“How about if I am your brother, too, and my My PaPa is also your PaPa?”

“That works for me, Jesus. At least it’s nice to know that we’re related.”

“We sure are, Solomon! Let’s feed thousands with your lunch, now.”

Jesus handed every disciple a loaf of bread and one fish. (Yep, a miracle!) “Have the people sit down, and give to each person all they want to eat” He instructed. Soon, over five thousand people ate their fill from 5 loaves of bread and 2 fish! Jesus said to Solomon, “You have a great name, son. My great-great-great-great PaPa was named Solomon!

Take Home Nugget

Wouldn’t it be too cool if we got to share our lunch with Master, Jesus? How about if we just share Jesus with whoever’s having lunch with us?

Awesome is our God and King above

Who showers us here below with His love.

J.D. Griffith

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Light of Christ

2011-08-19T06:00:00.009-04:00

LIGHT OF CHRIST

Romans 12:1-2

Verse 2: “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.”

Our friends at the swimming pool missed you while the Celebrating Scripture series posted. Fourth-grader, Miguel, threw his rubber baseball to classmate Bobby in the shallow end of the pool. Fifth-grader, Trevor, intercepted the ball.

“Hey!” Bobby yelled. “Give it back!”

Trevor stood up, laughing out loud. “Make me!” he dared, and swam away.

Miguel said, “That’s OK, Bobby. Let’s bat another ball to each other.”

These three boys are programmed differently from each other, because their families are so diverse. Miguel’s family is Christian, and goes to church regularly. Bobby’s family believes in God, but not in the same way that Miguel does. Trevor’s family doesn’t believe in God, so Jesus isn’t even on Trevor’s radar.

The world tempts and teases God’s kids, competing for notice. Believers are being sanctified—(SANK-ti-fied) means growing more like Christ—daily. We are empowered by the indwelling Holy Spirit to hit the tempter’s balls out of the park. Reading the Bible brightens the light of Christ, as He directs our actions—and reactions.

God’s truth correctly guides believer’s behavior. When minds are aligned (a-LINED means united) with God’s Word, His Spirit is in control. He programs our minds with godly-correct viewpoints. This enables us to look beneath the surface in every situation. The light of Christ clearly shows the difference between right and wrong. Poor, good, better, and best choices become obvious.

The light of Christ is only assured to shine for those who cooperate with the Holy Spirit. When Christ has permission to houseclean the thoughts that clutter your mind, He’ll also transform your life. Believers nurture (NURT-chur means to develop, tend to, look after) the light of Christ. This enables us to see things from His point-of-view, and is how we claim every promise God has planned. Jeremiah 29:11 assures us that God has plans for hope, a future, and success for those who love Him.

The amazing ability to align thoughts to God’s is a gift believers receive at salvation. However, the upkeep for the light of Christ is our responsibility. Are you ready to claim the abundant life God has planned for you?

Take Home Nugget

On a grassy field beside the pool, Miguel pitched the ball. Bobby swung the plastic bat hard, hitting Miguel’s pitch high and long. Miguel watched it. “You hit that outta the park, Bobby! Isn’t this better than just tossing and catching?”

Between every circumstance and me

Is Christ’s light, which lets me see.

J.D. Griffith

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Polycarp

2011-08-16T06:00:00.004-04:00

POLYCARP (69-155)

Part 12 of 12 Celebrating Scripture Series

Revelation 2:8-10

“The angel of the church of Smyrna write: ‘These are the words of Him Who is the First and the Last, Who died and came back to life again. I know your affliction and your poverty—yet you are rich! I know the slander of those who say they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan. Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer, I tell you, the devil will put some of you in prison to test you, and you will suffer persecution for ten years. Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you the crown of life.’”

The devotion, Continuum, showed how the church went on without Jesus, or His disciples. Polycarp was the last man who was personally taught by the apostle, John. John taught in Asia Minor, a land that is now called Turkey. Polycarp mirrored his mentor, John, in many ways. He was appointed bishop of the church at Smyrna.

Polycarp displayed John’s noble Christian spirit. He was gentle, yet inflexible when correcting error. Can you see John (who penned Revelation) smile when Jesus named Smyrna? But he must have flinched when writing down the words we read in today’s opening Scripture—words about persecution. Jesus was talking about John’s spiritual son, Polycarp!

Sure enough, the Romans came looking for Polycarp.

Polycarp hid in a farmhouse. His companions wrote a letter to the Church of Smyrna that said: “while praying he fell into a trance three days before his capture; and he saw his pillow burning with fire. And he turned and said to those that were with him, ‘it must be that I shall be burned alive.’”

Polycarp was arrested on Friday evening. He chatted with the Romans, even ordering food for them (Proverbs 25:21-22). Then he was led away.

The proconsul ordered Polycarp to curse Christ, and bow to Caesar as Lord. Polycarp answered, “Eighty and six years have I served Christ, nor has He ever done me any harm. How, then, could I blaspheme my King who saved me? You threaten the fire that burns for an hour and then is quenched; but you know not of the fire of the judgment to come, and the fire of eternal punishment. Bring what you will.”
Jesus promises a crown of life for whoever remains faithful to Him—even to death.

Take Home Nugget

Polycarp was burned at the stake on February 23, 155. Peter was crucified, and Paul was beheaded in year 67. All received their rewards in heaven—a crown of life from Christ.

All that Jesus asks is that you trust Him: walk by faith and not by sight.

J.D. Griffith

Bibliography:

1. Adapted from an earlier Christian History Story.

2. Aland, Kurt. Saints and Sinners; men and ideas in the early church. Philadelphia: Fortress Press, 1970.

3. Bacchus, F. J. "Polycarp." The Catholic Encyclopedia. New York: Robert Appleton, 1914.

4. Hoole, Charles H., translator. "The Martyrdom of Polycarp." http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/ martyrdompolycarp-hoole.html

5. Dan Graves, MSN. “Old Bishop Polycarp.” http://www.christianity.com./2/23/11

The12 part Celebrating Scripture devotional series adapted from In Touch Magazine. In Touch Ministries, Inc. Atlanta, Georgia. June, 2011. Pp. 5-17.

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Continuum

2011-08-12T06:00:00.019-04:00

CONTINUUM

Part 11 of 12 Celebrating Scripture Series

1Corinthians 1:12

“What I mean is this: One of you says, ‘I follow Paul’; another, ‘I follow Apollos’; another, ‘I follow Cephas’; still another, ‘I follow Christ.’”

“You just don’t get it! I’m glad that I didn’t baptize you! Who died on the cross for you?” Paul exploded. “We follow, and worship only Christ!” How did the infant Christian church survive after the original apostles died? Jesus assured them in John 14:18, “I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you.”

Continuum (con-TIN-u-um) means range, length, extent. A perfect title for this devotion, because we’ll see how God never fails. He always has a plan. While Jesus is in heaven for a time, He’s omnipresent—which means that He is everywhere. Jesus isn’t visible, but He IS right here. When the Holy Spirit arrived (Acts 2), the disciples immediately got busy. (See Gathered Together devotion).

But, who took over when all the disciples died? How would the church survive, grow, or even dare to prosper? Jesus assigned them (and us) work (Matthew 28:19). The whole world needs to be told the Good News: Jesus’ death offers forgives of sins, and eternal life to whomever believes in Him!

The original disciples taught scores of students. These new disciples were approved for service to carry the torch of Christ. Continuum means that there’s a way. Paul’s enlisted protégées (pro-to-JAYS mean people taught to be like the original) are sprinkled throughout his many books and epistles (letters). Paul’s churches were thriving, and church heads invented a new leadership position to supply pastoral guidance.

Bishops, or overseers, were appointed to carry on the work. Titus 1:7-8 describes a bishop’s qualities that make him suitable for the job: “Since an overseer is entrusted with God’s work, he must be blameless—not overbearing, not quick-tempered, not given to drunkenness, not violent, not pursuing dishonest gain. Rather he must be hospitable, one who loves what is good, who is self-controlled, upright, holy, and disciplined.”

Bishops had help, just like your Pastor, Priest, or Rabbi has a congregation (con-gre-GA-shon means worshipers) who assist him. Timothy, Erastus, Silas, Apollos, Aquila, Priscilla, are specifically mentioned in Acts 18 and19, Romans 16:3, 3:5-15, and 1Corinthians, 16:10-19. How many more remain nameless?

Workers are everywhere! God’s Spirit is released on His kids right now—and He’s nagging us to get on with it!

Take Home Nugget

When God’s work seems overwhelming, believers still willingly step up to do whatever’s necessary.

The disciples had a short time to accomplish Jesus’ assignment. 33 years after Jesus ascended to heaven, Peter and Paul had also gone home.

Jesus set us examples of doing good.

We follow Him when helping wherever we could.

J.D. Griffith

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Codex Sinaiticus

2011-08-09T06:00:00.020-04:00

CODEX SINAITICUS

Part 10 of 12 Celebrating Scripture Series

2Corinthians 11:12-14

“And I [Paul] will keep on doing what I am doing in order to cut the ground from under those who want an opportunity to be considered equal with us in the things they boast about. For such men are false apostles, deceitful workmen, masquerading as apostles of Christ. And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light.”

Jesus’ chosen apostles wrote down their testimonies (test-i-MO-nees mean statements of eye-witness truth). These circulated throughout the known world. Jealous men, not led by the Holy Spirit, tried to copy-cat. These false apostles made stuff up. The word heresy (HERE-e-see) describes their words as lies.

False apostles blossomed after John, the last original disciple, died in year 100. Challenging God’s Word, they were labeled heretics (HER-e-teks), or liars. Marcion (MAR-see-on) was one, professing two gods, beginning in year 144. (At least Jesus Christ was the superior deity to the Old Testament god). Marcion’s Canon (KA-non means rule) included ten epistles (letters), and parts of Luke’s gospel. His heretical (he-RET-e-kl) work spurred the Christians’ to circulate their own sacred writings.

Ireneaus (i-REEN-i-us) authored Against Heresies, in year 200. This became the Christian defense against heresy.

In 318, another heretic, Arius, claimed Jesus Christ wasn’t equally God with the Father. The resulting arguments and violence prompted Constantine, (KON-stan-teen was a Roman Emperor who converted to Christianity in 312), to form the Council of Nicaea (ni-SEE-a) in 325. See Gathered Together devotion for Christianity’s official belief statement. This defied heresy.

Finally, Codex Sinaiticus (sine-AT-i-kus—Book of Sinai) became the earliest complete manuscript of the Christian Bible. It combined the Septuagint (Sep-TU-a-jint, completed around 150 B.C., as the original Greek translation of the Old Testament) with the apostles’ New Testament.

Scribes folded and bound the hand-copied parchment—similar to the process we use to bind books today. Constantine ordered 50 copies of Codex Sinaiticus! They were planned for use in new churches built in the empire’s new capital, Constantinople (kon-STAN-tin-o-pl).

In year 363, the Council of Nicaea and Codex Sinaiticus inspired the Council of Laodicea (la-o-DEE-she-a) to approve the list of biblical books in the East. In 367, Athanasius (a-than-A-si-us), bishop of Alexandria, listed the official New Testament books for the first time. (There were writings [heresy?] that were rejected). It wasn’t until 397, at the 3^rd Council of Carthage, when an authoritative list of biblical books was published in the West.

Take Home Nugget

The Vulgate, the Christian Bible translated into Latin, became the official translation for the West. (East means countries: Asia, Eastern Europe, Middle Eastern countries, some African countries—both Arab and non-Arab. No part of Communist block is included. West means countries: Western Europe, Canada, United States, Mexico, South America).

Open your Bible prayerfully, read it carefully, obey it joyfully.

J.D. Griffith

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Colorful Christians

2011-08-05T06:00:00.021-04:00

COLORFUL CHRISTIANS

Part 9 of 12 Celebrating Scripture Series

Romans 3:22-26

“This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by His grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus. God presented Him as a sacrifice of atonement, through faith in His blood. He did this to demonstrate His justice, because in His forbearance He had left the sins committed beforehand unpunished—He did it to demonstrate His justice at the present time, so as to be just and the One Who justifies those who have faith in Jesus.”

This Scripture is the core of our Christian faith. Despite being bad kids, we’re loved, and forgiven—when we believe in Jesus. Our Father embraces us because Jesus took our punishment. He won’t even punish us for the bad things we did before we accepted Jesus as our Savior!

God’s kids have always been bad. When trouble comes to us because of our faith in Jesus, we’re rewarded….Let me explain.

Believers were first called Christians in Antioch (Acts 11:26). The disciples were busy preaching, (because Jesus told them to: Matthew 28:19-20). They preached the Good News of Jesus Christ from memory. Three years they walked with Jesus, soaking up everything they heard Him say, everything they saw Him do. The Holy Spirit helped them remember correctly.

The conversion of Saul into Paul—from tormenter of believers to fellow disciple—happened in 34 A.D. (Acts 9). Those rowdy Christians turned the world upside down! But, they often paid for it with their own blood.

In year 34, God’s Word blazed Stephen to speak. He was stoned to death (Acts 7:54-57). James, the brother of John was beheaded in 44—same year Paul took his 1st missionary trip to Cyprus and Asia Minor. By year 60, Paul wrote his epistles (e-PISS-les mean letters) to the churches he founded in Rome, Corinth, Galatia, Ephesus, Philippi, Colosse, and Thessalonica. Paul was beheaded in year 67, but not before writing to Timothy, Titus, and Philemon.

James (Jesus' earthly brother) wrote his book in year 61—same year Mark wrote his. Matthew was written in 65, Luke wrote his book, and Acts, in year 67.

John wrote five books, from years 86-92. As the last living disciple, he penned Revelation—the final book of the Bible—while a prisoner. John died in year 100.

Take Home Nugget

While you might not choose the lives of Jesus’ disciples, I guarantee that they wouldn’t change places with you! Their books still speak to us, and their rewards are in heaven!

Stow God’s Word in your heart, show it in your life, sow it in the world.

J.D. Griffith

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Gathered Together

2011-08-02T06:00:00.022-04:00

GATHERED TOGETHER

Part 8 of 12 Celebrating Scripture Series

1Timothy 1:3

“As I urged you when I went into Macedonia, stay there in Ephesus so that you may command certain men not to teach false doctrines any longer, nor to devote themselves to myths and endless genealogies.”

Think about Jesus’ disciples watching Him rise higher into the air, until He disappeared from sight (Luke 24:51). They remembered Jesus commanding them to go into the world and make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19). They were to baptize people, just as John the Baptist had done (Matthew 14:3-12).

When the Holy Spirit arrived (Acts 2:1-4), Jesus’ disciples sprang to life. It was time to get busy. Peter stood tall and raised his voice to address the crowd: “Fellow Jews visiting Jerusalem, listen to me!”

Peter spoke boldly, urgently recapping the story of a Nazarene named Jesus. He quoted Scripture, proving that his words were true. That day, 3,000 people came to believe in Jesus (Acts 2:14-41). “…the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved. (Acts2:47).

Soon, copy-cats emerged. False teaching began spreading like wildfire. It became difficult to filter out God’s truth from all the lies.

The Holy Spirit directed the apostles to write everything down. Christian leaders gathered together their writings into one place; their work was sacred, and trustworthy.

Take Home Nugget

To separate God’s truth apart from the world, the Holy Spirit directed church leaders to preserve what is sacred. A Christian Canon (KAN-on means rule, or standard measurement) was born. The first Council of Nicaea (Ni-SEE-a) met to resolve arguments among Christians in 325 A.D. (Anno Domini is Latin for “the year of the Lord”).

The apostles’ sacred writings laid the foundation for The Nicene (ni-SEEN) Creed. Confessing aloud believers declare aloud this declaration of Christian faith. The body of witnesses so declaring, is separated as God followers from everyone else in the world.

THE NICENE CREED

We believe in one God,

the Father, the Almighty,

maker of heaven and earth,

of all that is seen and unseen.

We believe in one Lord, Jesus Christ,

the only Son of God,

eternally begotten of the Father,

God from God, light from light,

true God from true God,

begotten, not made,

of one Being with the Father;

through Him all things were made.

For us and for our salvation

He came down from heaven,

was incarnate of the Holy Spirit and the Virgin Mary

and became truly human.

For our sake He was crucified under Pontius Pilate;

He suffered death and was buried.

On the third day He rose again

in accordance with the Scriptures;

He ascended into heaven

and is seated at the right hand of the Father.

He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead,

and His kingdom will have no end.

We believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life,

Who proceeds from the Father [and the Son],

Who with the Father and the Son is worshiped and glorified,

Who has spoken through the prophets.

We believe in one holy catholic [universal] and apostolic Church.

We acknowledge one baptism for the forgiveness of sins.

We look for the resurrection of the dead,

and the life of the world to come. Amen.

J.D. Griffith

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A Bible is Born

2011-07-29T06:00:00.027-04:00

A BIBLE IS BORN

Part 7 of 12 Celebrating Scripture Series

2Timothy 3:16

“All Scripture is God-breathed and useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.”

Any bible (BI-bl) is a handbook of truth. Our Holy Bible is God’s Word of truth. The opening Scripture proves its accuracy and dependability. We read it so that we’re thoroughly equipped for life—or as Paul insists to Timothy, for “every good work.” Let’s learn now to get the most out of our Lord’s handbook.

Just as babies are weaned from milk to solid food as bodies develop, believers gradually mature (ma-TURE means grow up) spiritually. Graduating from milk to solid food only comes as our understanding God’s Word evolves. (The Holy Spirit won’t reveal deep truths until we’re ready for them). No matter how many times a person reads the Bible from cover to cover, digesting the “meat” in the Word won’t happen—until we chew the words before swallowing them. (Meditating on and planting them securely in the heart).

Growing spiritually won’t happen without feasting on the Bible’s content, on purpose. Truly, the Bible advises believers how to handle everything in life. It is handy reference—from infancy to old age—no matter the circumstance. While we’ll never stop learning, the more we grow spiritually, the more yummy God’s Word tastes. This doesn’t happen by osmosis (os-MO-sis means that understanding automatically seeps into us because God is everywhere). The Bible must be read—or heard—personally.

2011 celebrates the 400th anniversary of the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible, finished in 1611. While the Old Testament books existed for thousands of years (Moses wrote the first ones), it took millenniums for technology to grow up. Men invented ink, then parchment. Parchment scrolls finally grew into books through later inventions of printing and binding. The Septuagint was the original ancient Greek version of the Old Testament, completed around 150 B.C. (Before Christ).

From a single artifact (ART-i-fact means historic object, or relic—REL-ik), our modern Bible journeyed from what no one would recognize as “Scripture.” Today, technology eases our reading burden further with the invention of Cassie’s Nook, another’s Kindle, or aother electronic device.

Take Home Nugget

“Whatcha reading, Missy?” Cassie asked. The two fifth-graders sitting on blankets at the swimming pool, were absorbed in their electronic reading devices.

“I’ve got VBS (Vacation Bible School) homework on The Beatitudes (Matthew 5:3-12). I’m sure glad that I don’t have to lug my precious Bible here—it could get ruined!”

Yes, the Bible is more precious than gold:

Our hopes, God’s promises therein unfold.

It reveals to us Jesus and His vast love,

Showing the only way to mansions above.

J.D. Griffith

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Priority Choice

2011-07-26T06:00:00.016-04:00

PRIORITY CHOICE

Part 6 of 12 Celebrating Scripture Series

1Peter 2:1-3

“Therefore, rid yourselves of all malice and all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander of every kind. Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation, now that you have tasted that the Lord is good.”

“Hey Cassie, can I borrow a quarter?” 10-year-old Jeremy asked his school class-mate at the swimming pool.

“OK Jeremy, here ya go” Cassie said, flipping him a quarter. “That won’t buy much. A hot dog costs a dollar.”

“Right. I’ll eat at home—this is for one of those tubes that hold a couple swallows of fruit drink. Thanks!”

Swallowing drink is a good pick-me-up after hours in the hot sun. When thirsty, a drink becomes top priority (pri-OR-i-tee means concern). The opening Scripture lists all kinds of things believers stop doing after becoming God’s kids. Malice (MAL-is means hateful, or spiteful), hypocrisy (hip-KROS-i-see means insincere, two-faced), deceit (de-SEET means dishonest), envy (EN-vee means jealous), slander (SLAN-der means insulting)—all behaviors we’re to avoid.

When believers choose to read God’s Word, we grow up in our salvation. Those behaviors listed above fade away, and righteous living takes their place. After reading God’s Word gets our attention, we’re hooked. We begin to crave it. God’s hoping that we open our Bibles and begin lapping up the pure spiritual milk of His Word every day.

We eat food when our stomachs grumble with hunger. We don’t often miss a meal, but how often do we neglect our spirit? Spiritual growth is as important as physical growth—since one day—our bodies will die. Why then, do we “forget” to feed our spirit, that never dies? When we choose to read the Bible every day, that becomes our priority, and we grow into spiritually-mature adults.

The promise is that once you begin “tasting” God’s milk, sipping—or reading a small passage of Scripture—you’ll develop a hunger for it. Your craving won’t be satisfied with simple reading. Soon, you will meditate on passages and ask God questions when His Word doesn’t make sense.

Daily Bible reading will never feel like an “obligation” (ob-li-GA-shon means duty). Instead, hunger for the Word will growl until you feed it. You’ll learn stuff about God that will rock your world. Learning more about God will become a delight. You’ll choose to make Bible reading your priority!

Take Home Nugget

As you grow into a spiritual adult, you’ll become a walking treasure. You’ll know what to expect from God. You’ll grow to know His character, His ways. These treasures can never be stolen from you.

We’re all accountable for how we spend every day.

Lets choose carefully, and not waste mindlessly away.

J.D. Griffith

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Faith Victory

2011-07-22T06:00:00.004-04:00

FAITH VICTORY

Part 5 of 12 Celebrating Scripture Series

1John 5:4-5

“…for everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith. Who is it that overcomes the world? Only he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God.” (Emphasis added.)

The Bible’s main objective (ob-JEK-tiv means point, purpose) is to reveal Jesus as God’s Son. Thousands of words tucked inside its 66 books point us to the Father, then to His Son, Jesus. Throughout, we’re encouraged to build a relationship with Him—the only way to eternal life.

Jesus’ victory is through water and blood. The water signifies His baptism, when the Holy Spirit lighted upon Jesus’ shoulder in the form of a dove. It is the Holy Spirit, (the Spirit of truth), Who testifies (TEST-i-fies means swears to, gives witness, confirms) that Jesus is God’s Son. This public show-and-tell was seen by many on the banks of the Jordan River. (Matthew 3:16-17).

The blood stands for Jesus’ death. Jesus’ flesh was torn to ribbons. Nails pounded into His hands and feet fastened Him to the cross. A spear pierced His side. Only Jesus—perfect God-man—could pay the price that bought forgiveness of sins for all humankind. By His sacrificial death, Jesus united the Old Testament with the New, as believers’ [Passover] Lamb (1Corinthians 5:7).

Passover was when people killed a lamb, and put its blood on the door posts so the angel would “pass over” their home (Exodus 12:1-13). The wall that separated the Holy of Holies from the worshippers in the temple, blew apart when Jesus died on the cross that Good Friday over 2,000 years ago (Matthew 27:51).

Indeed, water and blood are vital ingredients for our victory: The Spirit, the water, and the blood are in total agreement. They confirm, or testify that Jesus is God’s Son. Anyone who believes in the Son of God has this testimony in his heart. Whoever does not believe God makes Him out to be a liar (1John 5:10).

Would you ever call God a liar?

Take Home Nugget

This is what “free will” is all about. God does not demand that His created people bow to Him in worship, thanks, and adoration. We’re allowed to scream at God, even call Him a liar to His face. Whoever does not embrace Jesus and repent of sin will never have eternal life, their destiny is sealed.

Those who choose to believe that Jesus is God’s Son also have a sealed destiny. The Holy Spirit seals them for redemption (Ephesians 4:30). Their faith secures their victory for eternal life!

Faith looks beyond this temporary life,

Filled with gladness, but also trouble and strife.

Our victory is assured for all eternity:

Certainly, firmly, positively, confidently.

J.D. Griffith

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Meditation / Conversation

2011-07-19T06:00:00.005-04:00

MEDITATION / CONVERSATION

Part 4 of 12 Celebrating Scripture Series

Psalm 1:1-3

The Message: “How well God must like you—you don’t hang out at Sin Salon, you don’t slink along Dead-End Road, you don’t go to Smart-Mouth College.

2Instead you thrill to God’s Word, you chew on Scripture day and night.

3You’re a tree replanted in Eden, bearing fresh fruit every month,

Never dropping a leaf, always in blossom.”

This Scripture is a perfect way to introduce God’s kids into how to hold a conversation with the Almighty. We ask questions. God ALWAYS answers. He’s delighted when we seek Him in His Word! For example, the first verse, above, (although it’s from The message, your Bible will have the same meaning using different words), we can ask God if we are hanging out with the wrong crowd. Am I missing Your best blessings because of my choice of friends?

The second verse begs the question, “What do I mainly think about, Lord?” When we simply read Scripture, snap the Bible shut, and forget what we just read, we flunk the test. But when we reflect on the meaning, it penetrates inside our hearts. If we don’t understand it, ask God, “What does this passage mean, Lord?” The indwelling Holy Spirit brings its meaning into focus.

“What do You mean by meditating on Your Word day and night, Lord? I’m a busy kid!” For sure, we can’t meditate on His Word when we’re in a hurry. Meditation is a discipline. It requires silence, stillness, and concentration. The process of meditation/conversation requires desire on our part. When we listen to God’s small still voice, problem Scripture passages suddenly become clear.

He’ll also reveal not only the meaning, but how it applies to our lives. Our goal is to gain a deeper understanding of God, and ourselves. Deliberate seeking God involves thought, exploration, and prayer. The Lord’s transforming power explodes in our lives, enabling us to face every difficulty. Victorious living isn’t an accident—it’s deliberate—and planned.

The third verse above, promises success. “How can I become fruitful, Lord?” What kind of tree are you? Are you satisfied with dead leaves and rotten fruit? (Some questions are asked just to get us thinking). What’s displayed you your Tablet? Do you like sports stories, mysteries, action, adventure, romance, comics? What would someone think of you when seeing what’s visible on your Tablet? What would God think of your reading choices?

What would you think of someone whose electronic reading device displayed Scripture?

Take Home Nugget

We become Spiritually mature (ma-TURE means grown-up, adult) when we apply living to what we learn from Scripture.

I seek, ask, and ponder,

God’s love is awesome, and totally free!

Lost in holy wonder,

What, O Lord, is Your answer for me?

J.D. Griffith

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Spiritual Rutter

2011-07-15T06:00:00.004-04:00

SPIRITUAL RUTTER

Part 3 of 12 Celebrating Scripture Series

Psalm 119:105

“Your Word is a lamp unto my feet and a light for my path.”

Ships have rudders. They’re what steers it, just like the steering wheel in a car. But, while rudders are important—to keep God’s kids going in the right direction—we also need rutters. A rutter is a log of personal memories. It reminds believers when, where, and how Jesus walked us through problems.

So when we’re in another impossible situation, our rutter encourages us, inspiring faith that everything will be alright. Personal rutters help us navigate through dangerous seas with confidence. “Seas” could be sin, low self-esteem, chronic illness, money concerns—anything. We often think it’d take a miracle to get us out of a jam, but God’s still in the miracle business today!

Third-grader Shakira, bounded up to fifth-grader Cassie at the swimming pool. “Heah Cass.”

Cassie looked up. “Hi Shak. I didn’t realize that you were here today” she said. “What’s up?”

“I, uh, got my cell phone wet. Now it won’t work. I want to call Mom to pick me up.”

“When did this happen, Shak? It’s almost five o’clock!”

“I think around one.”

“What happened?”

“It fell in the pool.”

“What?” Cassie asked, raising her eye brows.

“I got pushed in. It wasn’t my fault! I laid it in the sun all afternoon, but it still won’t work!”

“Why did it take all day for you to find help, Shak?”

“I’ve been worried sick all day. I spent my dollar on food. I don’t know what to do Cassie! Can you help me?”

“I wish you’d come to me sooner” Cassie said, pulling out her cell phone from her bag. “Call your Mom now, Shak—she must be worried sick about you!”

Shakira sighed long. “Thanks, Cassie.”

“Next time, don’t ruin your day making yourself sick with worry. Remember to find me, OK?”

That’s Jesus response to our worries, too. “What took you so long to ask Me?” Our job is to keep our eyes on Jesus, and go to Him anytime, through prayer. Prayer “conversations” are not one-sided. Other people often provide answers. Our prayers may include Scripture reference (to remind God of a promise), ask a question, plead for help, or offer up praise and thanks. But our handbook—the Bible—is easy reference all the time

Take Home Nugget

God is especially faithful in trying times. Dangers pop up in life, and we’re always tempted to sin. Our rudder (the Holy Spirit) and our spiritual rutter (personal memories of assurance) keep God’s kids on course. God’s Word is the map, the indwelling Holy Spirit is the compass, and we’re never alone or abandoned!

The Bible—a guidebook true

Shows us the way

With courage, hope, and joy anew

Steering us through each day.

J.D. Griffith

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Read & Research

2011-07-12T06:00:00.015-04:00

READ & RESEARCH

Part 2 of 12 Celebrating Scripture Series

Isaiah 55:9-11

“As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts. As the rain and snow come down from heaven, and do not return to it without watering the earth and making it bud and flourish, so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater, so is My Word that goes out from My mouth: it will not return to Me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.”

God lets us know Who’s boss. Doesn’t the opening Scripture make you think? We ought to feel very special, as God’s beloved children. He purposefully gave us His Word so that we’ll read it, and learn about our Creator. Upon reflection, we learn more about ourselves. There are people around the world who are being mistreated just for having a Bible today. Many more want desperately to hold one! Still others can’t read, and hunger to hear God’s Word read aloud.

Along with prayer and worship, reading God’s Word is the best way to get to know Him. His personality is revealed in Scripture. He longs for His kids to pay attention to Him, and is so honored when we take time to read—and research (RE-serch means study) His words. Those who read Scripture only when they’re in trouble miss out on so much. God blesses those who voluntarily read His Word, and dig into understanding His qualities, behavior, and character. There are riches inside the Bible—jewels worth more than gold.

Before long, we develop a personal, intimate (IN-tim-at means close, warm) relationship with our sovereign Lord. BINGO! Right on! This is God’s goal!

Eight-year-old Shakira adores her cousin, ten-year-old, Cassie. They attend the same school, and the same church. Cassie always pays attention to Shak, giving her undivided attention when they’re together. Shakira never hesitates to “hang around” Cassie because she knows that Cassie loves her, looks out for her best, and never blows her off when around other kids. Is there anyone close to your age with whom you enjoy hanging out?

When the feeling’s mutual (MUTE-u-al means common agreement), this is how God feels about you when you read His Word. Respect. Tribute. Favor. God’s crazy about you!

Take Home Nugget

So, where to start? If you don’t follow daily devotions, and are unsure how to begin reading the Bible, choose one Gospel. Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John are the first four books in the Bible’s New Testament. John’s a perfect beginning!

God Himself is with thee

Your Savior, Keeper, Friend;

He’ll never forsake you or betray you—

He’ll walk with you till the end!

J.D. Griffith

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Celebrating Scripture

2011-07-08T06:00:00.007-04:00

CELEBRATING SCRIPTURE

Part 1 of 12 Celebrating Scripture Series

Proverbs 8:32-35

The Message: “So, my dear friends, listen carefully; those who embrace these my ways are most blessed. Mark a life of discipline and live wisely; don’t squander your precious life. Blessed is the man, blessed is the woman, who listens to me, awake and ready for me each morning, alert and responsive as I start my day’s work. When you find me, you find life, real life, to say nothing of God’s good pleasure.” (Me=Wisdom—calling us)

“Watcha reading?” Jeremy asked Cassie, whose Reader's Tablet leaned against her thighs as she sat bent-kneed on the ground, by the swimming pool.

Looking up, she squinted in the bright sunshine. “Oh, hi Jerm! I’ve got tons of books on my Tablet. But right now, I’m reading the 8th chapter of Proverbs, in the Bible.”

“Couldn’t you find something more interesting to read than the Bible?”

“It’s early” Cassie replied, shaking her head. “Devotions first, then I’ll begin my next book.” She waved Jeremy to one side. “You’re blocking the sun, Jerm! How can I get tan when you’re the firewall jamming the sun?”

Cassie’s got her priorities correct (pri-OR-i-tees rank personal concerns by importance). She knows that when she reads the Bible first, the rest of her day falls neatly in line. Today, she’s learning about wisdom. Cassie reads her devotions first thing every morning, and tries to remember what she learned throughout the day. It’s good practice to pick a time for daily devotions and stick to it.

What’s so exciting about the Bible? God’s Word happens to be the best seller of all time! Its collection of writings, books penned by different people, is the only complete human handbook ever published. The Bible is superior to all other books: truths worth living by, and worth dying for. The Bible’s principles are holy, its rules—indispensable (in-de-SPENS-i-bl means vital, necessary, crucial).

Scripture provides light that guides, food that nourishes, comfort that heals, salve that soothes, parties that cheer, and a rock that anchors. The Bible is map, GPS (Global Positioning System), compass, walking staff, and sword—the complete traveling guide for humans’ victory. We celebrate Scripture, because there’s not one promise that God fails to keep.

Electronic or hard copy choices bring the written word to us, surrounding us as we try keeping pace in today’s world. Don’t allow anyone to block “the Son” from you! Regardless of how you choose to read, won’t you join us in this Celebrating Scripture series?

Take Home Nugget

“What a perfect fun day!” Missy commented when Cassie joined her in the pool.
“Thank You, God” Cassie replied. “Thank You for this perfect fun day!”

Loving Father, Yahweh,

Holy Spirit our guide,

Savior Jesus every day

In Him we can abide.

J.D. Griffith

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No One Knows

2011-07-05T06:00:00.015-04:00

NO ONE KNOWS

Matthew 24:36

“No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. As it was in the days of Noah, so it will be at the Coming of the Son of Man.”

How did you react to Judgment Day, May 21, 2011? Who predicted that? And why? Do you want some answers—now that the date has passed?

Harold Camping, a self-declared prophet, is the man behind this. He’s studied God’s Word all his life—and he’s 89. His first book, 1994?, prophesized the end, too! The ? in the title provided an escape for “Plan B,” which was 2011. His motivation is Ezekiel 33:6: “But if the watchman sees the sword coming and does not blow the trumpet to warn people and the sword comes and takes the life of one of them, that man will not be taken away because of his sin, but I will hold the watchman accountable for his blood.” Harold claims that he misunderstood Matthew 24:22.

Harold Camping’s followers donated over 72 million dollars to his campaign—so, he has the money necessary to “blow the [warning] trumpet.” The billboards across America, the full-page ads in the USA Today newspaper did the job well. Harold Camping has done all he can do…now he’s responsible for scamming millions.

Jesus’ disciples were curious about the end of this age, too. As Jesus’ words teased them in Matthew 24-25:30, they were sure they’d see their Messiah return! And every succeeding generation—sure that they would be alive to witness Jesus coming on the clouds (Matthew 24:30-31)—lived and died. Jesus promise remains alive! Harold’s prophecy is just the most recent mistake made by a human. Why do people think they can predict what Jesus doesn’t even know? Mr. Camping still doesn't get it--his next date is October 21, 2011.

I hope that Harold Camping’s messages don’t freak you out. Our future is exciting:

In September, 2011, the Quartet: the EU (European Union), the UN (United Nations), Russia, and the United States plans to recognize a Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital. If the United States approves this, it will pass.

Zechariah 14:12 says: "This is the plague with which the Lord will strike all the nations that fought against Jerusalem: Their flesh will rot while they are still standing on their feet, their eyes will rot in their sockets, and their tongues will rot in their mouths."

Take Home Nugget

Although Zechariah’s words describe a nuclear war, there’s Good News. Nuclear war would be a sure sign that Jesus is coming soon! Jesus keeps believers safe from harm (1John 5:18). Believers use God’s Word (Ephesians 6:16) as drawn sword.

As this world grows darker, the promise of Jesus’ return grows brighter!

J.D. Griffith

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235 Years and Counting

2011-07-01T06:00:00.009-04:00

235 YEARS AND COUNTING

Isaiah 65:1

“I revealed Myself to those who did not seek Me. To a nation that did not call My Name, I said, ‘Here I am, here am I.’”

Proverbs 14:34
“Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a disgrace to any people."

North and South America was inhabited for centuries before Christopher Columbus landed in 1492—519 years ago. His news of a glorious new land broadcast far and wide. People flocked to it in search of something. Many came searching for religious freedom. Others arrived curious, eager for new discoveries. Great Britain wanted to expand her empire.

Native Americans watched boat loads of people land on their shores. They continued to retreat further West, giving up and giving in. How arrogant to think that men could own land!

The settlers fought the natives to claim possession of the land’s best. They finally had enough of England butting into their business, and the Revolutionary War broke out. Victory finally emerged for these daring pioneers! A leader elected, a capitol built, a Constitution written, 1776 launched the United States of America! Could this new frontier survive as a “melting pot” experiment? Absorbing peoples from foreign lands, the U.S.A. became an experiment that had never been tried. The world watched, fascinated and drawn to her.

April 12, 2011 marked the beginning of the American Civil War, 150 years ago. This war—lasting five years and killing thousands—rose from a disagreement. “Stop slavery” the North ordered its Southern brethren. “No!” the Southern states insisted, stamping its feet.

Brother-against-brother civil war finally ended when the South surrendered, keeping the United States united.

Today the United States is a divided states of America. The “melting pot” experiment of peoples has split into angry political rivals. Constant disagreements brew, differing parties point blaming fingers at the others. The separating gap is wide and deep. Can the country that began 235 years ago (as a perfect union), celebrate its 250 anniversary in 15 years?

Now with an African-American president, one would think that the “melting pot” experiment was a success. Or is the perfect union just a dream? Founded on Christian principles, how far can the U.S.A. drift from its foundation before its foundation crumbles?

Countries in the Middle East are experiencing their own civil wars today.

Do nations require a parent to settle disputes?

Take Home Nugget

Heavenly Father, Bless the United States of America, and nations around the world who are experiencing internal problems. Forgive all our sins against You and each other. Mend our split seams. Give Your children a Spirit of cooperation. Remind us that we were created in love. Show us how to love You and each other today, we pray in Jesus’ Name. Many thanks and praise for our glorious homelands! Amen.

J.D. Griffith

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Overcomers' Hallelujah

2011-06-28T06:00:00.005-04:00

OVERCOMERS’ HALLELUJAH

(Number 3 of 3 devotion series)

1John 5:4-5
“…for everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith. Who is it that overcomes the world? Only he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God.”

Signs of the Times devotion showed that disasters are happening faster—and more intense today—compared to years past. But this is not scary for believers, it’s an adventure! Sitting in front-row seats, witnessing Bible prophecy first-hand ought to get our attention. The opening Scripture assures our victory. Is your faith strong enough for the adventure of conquering the world’s ways? (If not, ask God to increase your faith! Matthew 9:24.)

That’s what overcomer means.

We—who believe that Jesus is the Son of God—are victors. Our power comes from faith in God, believing that what the Bible says is true. The signs end times, Matthew 24, point to how close we are to Jesus’ return. But instead of freaking out, or hanging out, we have work to do!

As living water, we can reach out with kindness and love to those who cling to the world, because we’re overcomers. Let me share Corrie Ten Boom’s words with you:

“Christians are ambassadors for Christ. They are representatives from Heaven to this dying world. And because of our presence here, things will change. My sister, Betsie, and I were in the Nazi concentration camp at Ravensbruck because we committed the crime of loving Jews. Seven hundred of us from Holland, France, Russia, Poland and Belgium were herded into a room built for two hundred. As far as I knew, Betsie and I were the only two representatives of Heaven in that room.

“We may have been the Lord's only representatives in that place of hatred, yet because of our presence there, things changed. Jesus said, ‘In the world you shall have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.’ (John 16:33). We too, are to be overcomers—bringing the light of Jesus into a world filled with darkness and hate.

“Sometimes I get frightened as I read the Bible, and see the tribulation and persecution promised by the Bible coming true. Now I can tell you, if you too are afraid, the last two pages make me want to shout, ‘Hallelujah! Hallelujah!’ for I found where Jesus said, ‘He that overcometh shall inherit all things: and I will be His God, and he shall be My son.’ (Revelation 21:7)."

This is the future and hope of this world. Not that the world will survive—but that we shall be overcomers in the midst of a dying world.”

Take Home Nugget

WOW! If Corrie Ten Boom do this, so can we!

Christ is coming—perhaps today?

J.D. Griffith

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Signs of the Times

2011-06-24T06:00:00.009-04:00

SIGNS OF THE TIMES

(Number 2 of 3 devotion series)

PARENTS: PLEASE REVIEW CONTENTS TO DETERMINE IF YOU WANT YOUR CHILD TO PARTICIPATE IN THIS DEVOTIONAL STUDY—Biblestudyforkids.com staff

Matthew 24:7-11

Verse 7: “Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines and earthquakes in various places.”

This earth is deathly ill. In fact, it’s dying. Jesus is poised to return soon to put an end to our foolishness. I am convinced that the Lord’s Spirit is crying out—to all who are tuned in—to pay attention. We just learned about idols in They’re Make From Wood! devotion. What people worship today broadcasts that our world’s in very bad shape.

The earth has become a global community. No one is immune to the heartache of world disasters, regardless of where they happen. Recent years’ disasters show that the Earth’s birth pains (Matthew 24:8) are growing more intense:

September 11, 2001: The worst terrorist attack in America's history was waged on the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and Washington, DC, U.S.A.

March 1, 2002: U.S.A. invaded Afghanistan to halt the spread of al-Qaeda's and the Taliban's influence. On May 1, 2011, the U.S.A. shot and killed Osama bin Laden in his mansion in Abbottabad, Pakastan.

March 20, 2003: U.S.A. went to war against ancient Babylon (Iraq.)

December 26, 2004: A magnitude 9.1-9.3 earthquake caused a tsunami that devastated countries bordering the Indian Ocean.

August 29, 2005: Hurricane Katrina devastated the southern coast of the U.S.A.

December 2007: The world entered a major recession with untold home foreclosures and bank closures.

January 12, 2009: A massive earthquake struck the Haitian capital of Port-au-Prince.

February 27, 2010: An 8.8 magnitude earthquake hit Chile

April 14, 1010: A 7.1 magnitude earthquake thumped China.

March 11, 2011: A 9.0 magnitude earthquake rocked Japan. It was followed by a tsunami and a nuclear crisis unlike anything since Chernobyl in April 1986.

April 7, 2011: A 7.6 earthquake rumbled Japan again. The nuclear reactor crisis was raised to 7—equal to Chernobyl.

Earth’s been in labor for thousands of years, and her pains are more frequent these days. They will only end when Jesus returns.

Luke 21:28 gives believers courage: “When these things begin to take place, stand up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.” Jesus promises His brothers and sisters, “And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.” (John 14:2-3).

Take Home Nugget

Upon the heels of these Scripture passages, John 14:27 comforts us with: "Peace I leave with you, My peace I give you. I do not give it to you as the world gives. Do not let your heart be troubled and do not be afraid.”

We’re in God’s care with every breath we take.

J.D. Griffith

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They're Made From Wood!

2011-06-21T06:00:00.004-04:00

THEY’RE MADE FROM WOOD!

(Number 1 of 3 devotion series)

Isaiah 46:1-9

The Message vv.1-2: “The god of Bel falls down, god Nebo slumps. The no-god hunks of wood are loaded on mules and have to be hauled off, wearing out the poor mules—Dead weight, burdens who can’t bear burdens, hauled off to captivity.”

Bel is another name for Marduk, the deity of Babylon. Bel was the equivalent of the Canaanite Baal, meaning lord. Nebo, or Nabu was the god of learning and writing…the son of Marduk. Nebo slumps, or is in disgrace. Babylon fell in year 689 B.C., and again in 539 B.C. (Before Christ—50 years part). The prophet Isaiah is warning his people to worship the Lord God—and serve Him only—by hauling away these wooden ‘gods.’ Isaiah must have preached this warning after Babylon’s first fall, since his book was written between 740 and 680 B.C.

What a victory for the Israelites! The Babylon gods were carted away in front of those who serve the living God. Can you hear the masses cheer and dance as the wooden idols were dumped and burned?

Whether made of wood, metal, ceramic, or plastic, idols are just that—IDOLS! Whatever consumes people’s attention— including TV, iPod, or computer—are taking the place of what is supposed to be our first love. Revelation 2:4 states only one thing against the church of Ephesus. While they’ve scored highly, they had forsaken their first love—God Almighty!

Nothing, and no one is God except our Creator, Yahweh. Not even His creation is worthy of reverence and adoration. The TV program, American Idol (rightly named), makes people instant stars. Suddenly people adore the winners, overnight sensations. This shows how far we have sunk into sin and idol worship.

Everyone has ambitions, dreams, jobs. While these are all worthwhile, how do we rank their importance—compared to worship—in our lives? Where do we invest most of our time and energy? What, or who holds our attention?

Earthy pursuits, responsibilities, and relationships are vital for humans to thrive. Our heavenly Father keeps His eyes on His kids, wooing us to seek Him! He pursues us to build a relationship with, and draw closer to Him after our salvation. Oh the treasures God has in store—available in Jesus—for those who are interested! (Colossians 2:3).

Take Home Nugget

What could be more comforting to God’s kids than to sleep in sweet peace that the God Who made us, loves and cares for us? “I will carry you” He promises in Isaiah 46:4. This includes every care and worry that we face throughout our entire lifetimes!

Our job is to cast upon Him our cares; God’s work is to take care of us!

J.D. Griffith

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Lost Child

2011-06-17T06:00:00.007-04:00

LOST CHILD

Luke 15:11-31

Vv. 23-24: “Bring me the fatted calf and kill it. Let’s have a feast and celebrate. For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.”

Amariah went to his Dad with a burning question.

“Hey Dad, I was wondering…may I have the share of my inheritance now? I want to see the world, and find out who I am.”

Amariah’s Dad looked into his son’s eyes. “Let me get this straight. You want your share of the estate before I die?”

“Uh, yeah, that’s right. I am trying to figure out what I want to do the rest of my life.”

“So, you want to ‘discover yourself’ away from me?”

“Yeah, that’s about it.”

“Ok, then. I’ll bring you your share of my estate tomorrow.”

“Thanks, Dad!” Amariah said, hugging his Dad tight. Then he ran off to collect his personal things. He tied his stuff on a donkey. He waited, pacing the ground.

“You’re loafing, Amariah! Why aren’t you helping with our chores?” his brother asked.

“Dad’s going to give me my share of the estate, so I can leave here tomorrow.”

The next day dawned bright, and Amariah stuffed his money inside the pack on the donkey’s back. He kissed Dad Good-Bye, waved to his brother, and set off. First night found Amariah at a tavern ten miles out, chugging one beer after another. He awoke beside a woman whose name he’d forgotten. He set out again.

Going ten miles every day, following this same routine, finally found Amariah waking alone on a straw mattress. He searched in his pack for money for this day’s travel.

Amariah was broke!

Oh my goodness, how will I eat? he thought. He walked to a farm, and asked the farmer, “Please give me work, so I can earn money for food, sir.”

“You can slop the hog pen, son” the farmer said.

Amariah, muddy and wet, saw the corn cobs the hogs were munching on. He licked his lips. Dad would give me corn cobs to eat, he thought. So Amariah hopped on his donkey and headed home.

Amariah’s Dad saw a donkey approaching. Is that my son, Amariah? It IS!! his Dad thought. He ran full speed towards the donkey, stopping for Amariah’s hug. “You’re HOME, son! I am so glad to see you. Get ready for a feast tonight. I’m going to throw you a welcome-home party.”

Take Home Nugget

You are Amariah. Think about it. His Dad represents our heavenly Father, Who loves you forever, unconditionally, regardless of your sins. Heaven throws a party whenever a lost child returns home! The Prodigal Son is fictitiously named Amariah in this devotion.

HAPPY FATHER’S DAY!

J.D. Griffith

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Father Elohim

2011-06-14T06:00:00.015-04:00

FATHER ELOHIM

Nehemiah 1:1-11

V. 11: “They [Jews exiled to Babylon, now living back in Jerusalem] are Your servants and Your people, whom You redeemed by Your great strength and Your mighty hand. O Lord, let Your ear be attentive to the prayer of this Your servant to the prayer of Your servants who delight in revering Your name. Give Your servant success today by granting him favor in the presence of this man.”

Nehemiah worked with stones and cement as a building contractor. But during his exile to Babylon, he worked as cupbearer for King Artaxerxes. Nehemiah knew many names for God. He knew: Eliohim—God’s name that shows His sovereignty (SOV-rin-tee means power, rule, control). Elohim is a Greek noun that’s plural, but the verb used with it is singular. This shows how our Triune God—3 persons—is 1 God. Nehemiah depended on God’s power, and never doubted.

As cupbearer, Nehemiah tasted the food and drink before the king ate and drank (in case it was poisoned). He had to be cheerful all the time. If he acted differently, the King would likely suspect danger and punish him.

One day, bad news arrived from Jerusalem. The city was totally destroyed! Nehemiah so wanted to supervise its rebuilding, and couldn’t hide his sorrow. The king got suspicious.

“Nehemiah, are you sick?”

Nehemiah gulped. He thought quickly, "Uh-oh! How can I explain?" He said aloud, “I’m sorry, great King. How can I be cheerful when Jerusalem lies in ruins, its gate destroyed by fire?” (Nehemiah 2:1-3).

“Oh. How can I help?”

“If you’re pleased with me, O king, please let me go there and help rebuild the city.” (Nehemiah 2:5).

“How long will it take?”

Nehemiah and the King agreed on the details, and Nehemiah was released to rebuild Jerusalem—materials in hand! God performed a miracle for Nehemiah! But that’s not all—Nehemiah was successful at everything! He got the walls rebuilt (chapters 2, 3, 4), helped the poor (chapter 5), and helped resettle people (chapter 11). Twelve years later Nehemiah returned to Babylon and King Artaxerxes (2:1, 13:6).

God’s original name for Himself is I AM, or Yahweh, which means the One Who never changes. Another name for God is Adonai (a-DON-i means majesty and Lordship). Nehemiah was certain of God’s qualities, and stood firm on them. He was victorious in everything he attempted.

The miracle God worked for Nehemiah isn’t unusual; He’s still in the miracle business today.

Take Home Nugget

God can, and will do awesome things for you, too. Understanding all of God’s names gives His kids confidence in His abilities and power.

I can always depend on my heavenly Father, Elohim

Yesterday, today, tomorrow He remains the same.

Always faithful, forever in control

He loves me! Praise His holy Name!

J.D. Griffith

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Ego-Trip or Worthy?

2011-06-10T06:00:00.006-04:00

EGO-TRIP OR WORTHY?

Jeremiah 32:17

“Ah, Sovereign Lord, You have made the heavens and the earth by Your great power and outstretched arm. Nothing is too hard for You.”

Cassie and her fifth grade classmates recessed in the downstairs gym one stormy afternoon (see Exalt devotion). Bounding up the jungle gym, Cassie sat on the top bar and looked down. “I see your cartwheel Missy!” she yelled. “I see you made a basket, Scotty!”

“Quit telling us what you see up there, and come down to earth!” Missy yelled back. “You’re not god-in-the-sky!”

Cassie smiled as she leaned back and hung upside down from the bar by bent knees. “I still see you guys!”

Exalt devotion showed God’s kids life purpose. The more we love God, obey Him, and seek better understanding of Who He is, He’s thrilled. And we’re blessed. God made people in order to form relationships with them. Why then, does He allow tragedy? Why was Japan hit with two major earthquakes in March and April, 2011? The tsunami (su-NAM-ee is a giant wave) wreaked havoc in that island country. Thousands dead, homes demolished, power out, and 6 nuclear reactors spewed radiation disaster.

Who’s in charge here?

Does God just eat up our adoration and praise, than fail to protect us when disaster strikes? Is He on an ego-trip? Is He worthy of our praise? Don’t look now, but YES, He is worthy! He is sovereign (SOV-rin means supreme ruler) of heaven and earth. Nothing is beyond His control.

He’s still in charge.

Here are new terms that describe our awesome God: omnipotent (om-NIP-o-tent) means all-powerful. Omnipresent (om-ne-PRES-ent) means everywhere at once. Omniscient (om-NEESH-ent) means all-knowing. In other words, our God has power over everything, exists everywhere (even in dark places), and knows every secret. There is nothing that’s beyond His knowledge or ability.

Is this your idea of being in charge?

This limitless, fully in control, unfathomable God (who can understand Him?) wants you as His child. With all His credentials (kre-DEN-shalls means qualifications), won’t you agree that He’s worthy of praise?

So when life gets screwy, and we wonder why…perhaps we can trust that He knows what He’s doing. Being unfathomable, we will never understand this bottomless over-the-top God. But we CAN trust Him. Sinking this “head knowledge” into our hearts floods our souls with peace.

Take Home Nugget

Regardless of what happens to us, our lives are firmly in His grasp. God’s not on any ego-trip; (He invented ego). He truly is worthy of our praise. Even though Cassie could see everything her classmates did at recess just by hanging from a high bar, doesn’t compare to our God’s omnipresence.

Trusting God sometimes challenges human egos to thank and praise Him.

J.D. Griffith

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Exalt

2011-06-07T06:00:00.007-04:00

EXALT

Psalm 150:6

“Let everything that has breath praise the Lord.”

Exalt (eks-ALT means praise, applaud) the Lord, all the earth! We can be sure that Jesus’ disciples felt like clapping their appreciation and admiration for Him after He calmed the wind and waves with a single command. (See Seismos devotion).

Lightning’s fire ball seized the attention of the fifth-graders as it blazed a trail through the dark afternoon sky. A second later, BOOM thundered through the entire school. “Everyone, let’s file downstairs now” their teacher said as the recess bell sounded.

Cassie was the first one to get to the classroom door. Opening it, she giggled to Missy who followed behind, “How exciting—I love thunderstorms!”

“Yeah, but we can’t play much inside during recess” Scotty whined. “How come you’re always so happy—even when it’s raining, Cassie?”

Missy answered, “Because it’s recess!

Cassie giggled again. “It’s no use to be sad because it’s raining, Scotty. We need rain. I just planted flowers in my garden last night. They’re smiling right now.”

Cassie’s got the right attitude. How can God’s kids appreciate whatever’s happening every minute of every day? As we keep our eyes focused on Jesus, complaining doesn’t make sense. Even when things get screwy, we know Who’s in charge. We trust our security in Jesus, regardless of what’s happening—inside or out. That confidence comes from our certainty that God is sovereign (SOV-rin means supreme ruler). Nothing happens outside of His control.

With happy hearts, we can obey Psalm 118:24’s command. It says, “This is a day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” Just with smiling faces, and cheerful attitudes, we exalt our Lord. Worshipping our awesome God becomes fun instead of a task when we consider His many outstanding qualities.

Before getting depressed, it’s advisable to consider Jesus. He is faithful, eternal, all-knowing, just, merciful, gracious, impartial, infinite. He’s the same every day. In a word, He’s perfect! Now are you smiling? Good! Keep it up, when you realize that He’s all powerful, almighty, righteous, wise, accessible, compassionate, all wise. He knows every star by name. He’s also personal.

He knows your name (Isaiah 43:1-2).

We can adore Him, respect Him, love Him. He’s honored when we strive to know Him better.

Take Home Nugget

Meditation (med-i-TA-shon means to purposefully think hard and long about something) is another way for God’s kids to exalt Him. Think of God’s names: Creator, Love, Redeemer, Shepherd, Savior, Lord, Father, Comforter, Teacher. I AM.

Of course He is!!!

Applauding God becomes our life’s purpose. The more we exalt the Lord, the more we’re blessed.

Let us worship our King Amazing, glorious above! Gratefully, boldly we sing His power and His love.

J.D. Griffith

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Seismos

2011-06-03T06:00:00.014-04:00

SEISMOS
Matthew 8:23-27

V. 27: “The men were amazed and asked, ‘What kind of a man is this? Even the winds and waves obey Him!”

Peter and Andrew dipped and pulled the oars getting Jesus and the disciples across the Sea of Galilee. No stars lit up the dark night. “Can you tell the waves are picking up, Andrew?” Peter asked.

“Yeah, but keep rowing.”

The wind blew Andrew’s hair straight back, and he gripped his oar tighter.

Peter squinted his eyes to view those in the boat. Jesus was asleep on a cushion in the front (Mark 4:38), the disciples behind. “Hang on folks, it’s getting rough” he warned.

A wave splashed inside the boat, drenching Philip. “Ohhhh-COLD!”

The disciples sat up, grabbling something to hang onto. The wind howled, changing directions. Their hair, first blowing east, blew south. More waves crashed inside the boat, soaking everyone. The boat heaved one way, then pitched the other way, juggling the load. Water continued splashing inside the boat, as the wind shrieked. The disciples’ wide eyes saw only shadows, their hands clinging onto something for dear life. “Wake Jesus!” Peter ordered.

James cried, “Seismos!” (SIZE-mos is a Greek word meaning large disorder—like seismic activity).

James shook Jesus’ shoulder. “Master, there’s a problem.”

Peter’s scream, “Lord, save us—we’re going to drown!” was barely heard against the wind.

Jesus looked at James wrinkling His brow. Shaking His head to wake up, He stood up in the lurching boat, then chuckled. Raising His arms, He said, “Quiet! Be still.” (Mark 4:39). Immediately, the wind and waves stopped being rowdy. The sea became still as glass. Jesus asked James, “There’s a problem?”

“Master, many of us are seamen, and yet have never weathered a storm like this! It appeared so suddenly, and grew violent—without warning. We were sure we were going to die!” Peter babbled. Standing up, he threw down his oar. “And You just stand up and order nature to stop? Cut me a break, Jesus! Who could do such a thing?

“You of little faith” Jesus said, looking around. “Why were you so afraid? Are we to Gadarenes yet?” (Matthew 8:28).

Take Home Nugget

Right. Who could do such a thing? Who calms the wind and water with one sentence? Who calms you and me with His peace, sympathizes with our weaknesses, negotiates with the Father on our behalf? Philippians 4:7, Hebrews 7:15, and verse 25 answer: Jesus.

Only one Man, the One Who’s divine can do these things. Jesus: Creator, Lord over the universe has all power and authority to do such things (Matthew 28:18). This is the big picture behind all the Biblical stories about Him. ... Pretty awesome, huh?

Depending on Jesus brings us strength in our weakness.

J.D. Griffith

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Confirmed Royalty

2011-05-31T06:00:00.032-04:00

CONFIRMED ROYALTY
1Corinthians 6:12-20

The Message vv.19-20: “Or didn’t you realize that your body is a sacred place, the place of the Holy Spirit? Don’t you see that you can’t live however you please, squandering what God paid such a high price for? The physical part of you is not some piece of property belonging to the spiritual part of you. God owns the whole works. So let people see God in and through your body.”

Keith and his family began sitting next to Shakira and her family during church service (see Begun Here, to be Finished…There devotion). The kids who were being confirmed wore white robes, and sat in a pew up front. Keith elbowed Shakira, “What’s confirmation, Shak?” he whispered. (Kon-fir-MA-shon means verified, approved).

“After a couple years of studying our faith, we get confirmed…kind of like graduation” she whispered back.

“How come?”

“Confirmation recognizes the kids as adult members of the congregation.”

“There’s so much to learn! I thought believing in Jesus was the end-game. You told me there weren’t any rules, remember?” (See Rules? devotion).

Keith’s just like countless believers. Why do so many people think that the road ends at salvation? Do we take salvation—and the Holy Spirit’s indwelling—for granted? News bulletin: the Lord’s not just passing through. Royalty (God’s Holy Spirit) indwells believers. Invisible changes are happening inside, while our outsides look unchanged. The Holy Spirit transforms people from the inside out, and it’s day by day (Romans 12:2, 2Corinthians 3:18). Do we grow so accustomed to having the best gift of salvation, that we forget how special we are to God?

Learning more about our spiritual growth will help us to remember that we’re being groomed for the family business. (God’s family business: His kingdom).

Refer to Every Believer is Special devotion to remind you how extraordinary you are to God. With Jesus as our big Brother, and the indwelling Holy Spirit, we are confirmed, authentic royalty! Not in the Confirmation of Faith church practice kind of way, but rather, we’re confirmed, or established as God’s kids. We’re royalty, as children of the King! Remember, our being groomed as a Chosen Race, Royal Priesthood, Holy Nation, and God’s Own Possession is ongoing (1Peter 2:9-10).

Shakira elbowed Keith, “Ok. If growing and learning is a rule, I guess I lied to you. But isn’t it cool how we’re being changed without even knowing it?” she whispered.

Take Home Nugget
Has anything changed since King Jesus came into your life, claiming your heart? Would others know whose you are, who you serve?

Strive for everyone to know that you serve God above,
His Holy Spirit dwells inside, and fills us with His love.

J.D. Griffith

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Selfless Devotion Honor

2011-05-27T06:00:00.009-04:00

SELFLESS DEVOTION HONOR
Matthew 6:1-6

The Message v.1: “Be especially careful when you are trying to be good so that you don’t make a performance out of it. It might be good theater, but the God Who made you won’t be applauding.”

Celebrating Memorial Day in the USA is citizens’ appointment to applaud the selfless acts of those who’ve gone before. When at war, our immediate attention is focused on our devoted troops. Their selfless acts of bravery and courage allow us to enjoy freedom without worry. Gratefully, we honor them, and remember them in our prayers for safe return to the homeland.

Hurricane Isabel bore down on Washington, D.C. in September, 2003. The guards at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, in Arlington National Cemetery, were advised to seek shelter. Not one guard ducked the raging storm. They selflessly stood post. The Changing of the Guard clicked heels precisely on time. Honoring their fallen comrades—even in the face of a hurricane—was their highest devotion.

We also honor departed cherished loved ones this holiday. Their selfless devotion continues to show us, guiding us forward on our paths today. Our memories shine warm, welcome reminders of who they were, and what they still mean to us.

But sometimes death comes unexpectedly, shocking those who remain alive. How can children say, “Good-bye” to a parent? Parents are numb when having to bury a child. Sometimes we must do stuff that we don’t want to do. We just don’t understand. It’s so painful. Sometimes, life’s too hard! Enter Jesus. He calms mournful hearts, laying down a blanket of peace. Our loved ones are in His arms, free from heartache and pain. That calm energizes us to go on.

Selfless devotion honors both the giver and the receiver. In the opening Scripture, Jesus teaches anonymous (an-ON-i-mus means secret) serving. He urges us to act without calling attention to ourselves. No one needs to see our good deeds; no one needs to learn of them. Jesus desires our consistent, selfless devotion to Him, this way. Every good deed, every obedience, every act of service is how we worship God each day.

Take Home Nugget

Envision private (and public) moments as gifts to the Lord. Remember times when you didn’t have to be asked twice before obeying a request? (Willing service to God). How about when you weren’t even asked, and did something nice? (Enthusiastic acts of worship). Jesus honors you in Matthew 25:40, “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of Mine, you did for Me.”

O Lord, help me to persevere this day:
Grant me strength to serve in Your name.
Giving myself in selfless devotion, I say
Thank You for loving me every day the same!

J.D. Griffith

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Every Believer is Special

2011-05-24T06:00:00.022-04:00

EVERY BELIEVER IS SPECIAL

1Peter 2:9-10

The Message: “But you are the ones chosen by God, chosen for a high calling of priestly work, chosen to be a holy people. God’s instrument to do His work and speak out for Him, to tell others of the night and day difference He made for you—from nothing to something, from rejected to accepted.”

Begun Here, to be Continued…There devotion shows God’s kids the lifetime work of the Holy Spirit to transform us into people resembling Jesus, Himself. It discusses the physical change that radiates from the face of someone who makes God the main objective of life. Let’s listen to our third-grade friends as they exit their Sunday school classroom.

“Do you believe that the Holy Spirit makes it possible for Jesus to live through us?” Keith asked

Shakira as they walked into the sanctuary.

“I wonder how often I make Jesus mad by how I act, or the things I say?” Shakira said, shaking her head.

These kids will be blown away when they learn four things that make every believer special:

1.) Chosen Race. God chooses you and me to be part of His family, and kingdom! Why? Because He wanted us. He created us with this in mind. No one who’s been specially selected by God Almighty is insignificant (in-sig-NIF-i-kant means of no value or importance).

2.) Royal Priesthood. As God’s kids, we’re part of His royal family: heirs of God, and fellow heirs of Jesus Christ (Romans 8:17). Our Brother Jesus fulfills two roles. He’s both King and Priest. Our Father entrusts us with two roles, too: worship and intervention (in-ter-VEN-shon means to speak out to God) for others. (1Peter 2:9). Our jobs may freak us out, but in Christ, they’re do-able.

3.) Holy Nation. A group of believers, otherwise known as the church, is the body of Christ. We are holy, set apart for the Father’s purpose. (See Universal Church of Individuals devotion). Nothing we do is meaningless. Living for the Lord is our greatest ambition.

4.) God’s Own Possession. Our heavenly Father values each of us so much that He sent His own Son, Jesus, to die for our salvation. This was an expensive gift. God cherishes His kids so much that there isn’t anything that’s too much trouble for Him to be involved with in our lives.

“I wonder how comfortable the Holy Spirit is living inside of me?” Keith pondered.

Take Home Nugget

Satan interrupts our peace—saying that we’re too bad—unworthy of salvation. Don’t believe Satan’s lies! Always remember that your true identity and calling come from the Highest Authority—the One Who created you!

Oh the changes we’d love to make In our lives for Jesus’ sake! God watches over His own— Kids He’ll never disown.

J.D. Griffith

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Begun Here, to be Continued...There

2011-05-20T06:00:00.015-04:00

BEGUN HERE, TO BE FINISHED…THERE
2Corinthians 3:15-18
The Message vv. 17-18: “And when God is personally present, a living Spirit, that old, constricting legislation is recognized as obsolete. We’re free of it! All of us! Nothing between us and God, our faces shining with the brightness of His face. And so we are transfigured much like the Messiah, our lives gradually becoming brighter and more beautiful as God enters our lives and we become more like Him.”

Keith had a question in the third/fourth-grade Sunday school classroom he attends with Shakira. (See Rules? devotion). “I was wondering—when will we be done, you know—grow into being more like Jesus?”

Mr. Shaffer, said, “Good question, Keith. Why do you think you’re here, in the first place?”

Will Keith learn who chooses his future? Will he understand that sanctification (sank-tif-i-KA-shon, means becoming righteous) takes a lifetime, and beyond? Will he get it that God has a specific purpose for him? Will he discover that his God-given gifts will decide his wants, determine his work, and define his life?

“Uh, I don’t know.”

Mr. Shaffer closed his lesson book. “OK. We’ll tackle Keith’s question first. Our heavenly Father has a unique (un-EEK means one-of-a-kind) plan for every person’s life. But He intends for His kids to share one goal—and that’s to be conformed into the image of His Son, Jesus. Keith wonders how close he’s getting…well, he’s still got a lifetime to go!”

“Uh?” the class uttered, as one.

“This process perfects our moral (MORE-al means good, right, honest) compass. It tunes our spiritual minds and hearts towards God. The Holy Spirit works nonstop—24/7—on tweaking believers’ character while we’re on earth. His goal is for us to become as loving, kind, and at peace as Jesus.”

Every kid’s head was shaking, “No.”

“You’re disagreeing with me?”

Courtney spoke up, “No one can be like Jesus, Mr. Shaffer!”

“You’d think that, wouldn’t you? I’ve got news for you: this is do-able!” Every eye was on Mr. Shaffer as he continued, “The Holy Spirit, living inside each of you, lives the life of Jesus through you!"

“No way!” Keith surprised himself, speaking up.

“Are you calling me a liar?”

No one spoke.

“Are you saying the Bible is a fairy tale?”

Heads shook, “No.”

“Our one job is to work with the Holy Spirit, not against Him. Relax, kids. Most of us won’t be done until we’re in heaven—if then.”

Take Home Nugget

The sovereign (SOV-rin means supreme ruler) God is concerned with every single thing involving our lives. Both good and bad stuff fulfill God’s purpose for His kids, lovingly shaping us into His masterpieces.

When we think we cannot reach the divine, hear God whisper, “Thou art mine!”

J.D. Griffith

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Rules?

2011-05-17T06:00:00.013-04:00

RULES?
Proverbs 9:7-12
V. 10: “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding."

Playing 4-Square during recess from their third-grade classroom, Shakira blew Keith’s mind. Hitting the ball, she said, “You wanted to know the rules of being a Christian, Keith? There aren’t any.” (See What Happens When I Sin? devotion).

“Your first rule was for me to repent” Keith challenged, returning the ball.

“Yeah, well, repenting is the only way I know that’ll stop your yelling at Nina.”

“I’m confused” Keith admitted.

Shakira’s correct—sort of. God laid down many rules for His people in the Bible’s Old Testament. There were festivals to be observed, forbidden foods, commanded sacrifices. But Jesus changed all that. Ephesians 2:14-15 says that Jesus destroyed the dividing wall of hostility and abolished “in His flesh the law and its commandments and regulations.” The cross reconciled OT laws with the NT sacrifice in one body (Jesus). Only one rule remains. John 3:16 states that whoever “believes in Jesus will not perish, but have eternal life.”

Since Keith already trusts Jesus as his Savior, he’s Shakira’s brother-in-Christ. He’s a new person (2Corinthians 5:17), growing in righteousness from the inside out (2Thessalonians 2:13). The indwelling Holy Spirit directs his growth, reminds him of sin that needs repenting, and supplies him supernatural strength (Ephesians 3:19). So, strictly speaking, there aren’t more rules.

But…there’s always a but, isn’t there? The opening Scripture offers wisdom and understanding to those who fear God. Fearing God can be more accurately described as awed reverence. Can we acknowledge God as the sovereign ruler of heaven and earth? Do we agree that God makes all things turn out for good, for those who love Him, and are called according to his purpose (Romans 8:28)? Why then, is it difficult to submit to and obey His will? No wonder Keith is confused…this is a lot to get at one time.

Believers are offered, and advised to make life choices that enhance their walk. Gaining stuff like wisdom, empowerment to obey, or understanding from a divine perspective only come from surrendering to God’s will. Sheer will power isn’t enough. Human efforts always fall short of the goal. Only by the power of the Holy Spirit can we live victoriously.

Who else empowers confidence for a person to live in joy, security, and achieve victory in both good times and bad?

Take Home Nugget

Beginning each day by confessing dependence on God makes the Holy Spirit accountable. Now it’s His job to lead us through everything we think, say, and do. Talk about awesome assurance and might!

Lord, thank you for my salvation,
Your grace and mercy, all for free!
Take charge of my sanctification,
Glorify Yourself through me.

J.D. Griffith

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