260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 260 - Revelation 22: JESUS IS COMING!!!

This will be the final DEVO for 260 in 2012. Thanks for the privilege of reading thru the NT together. I hope it has helped each of us to KNOW JESUS & MAKE HIM KNOWN! Again – this chapter ROCKS! Kinda’ covered verses 1-5 in the previous devo, so we’ll pick up with verse 6. John has been obediently penning (or whatever they used) everything he has been told. Everything is “trustworthy and true” and we are blessed if we obey God’s word! In amazement, John falls at his feet to worship, but even the angel knows he’s not the worthy one, “Don’t do that! I am a fellow servant….Worship God!” Immediate obedience was followed by immediate worship. Then we read this incredible promise: “Look, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to each person according to what they have done.” Amazing to think that God will reward our faithfulness. And a sad reality to think some will not believe. We then read of God’s final invitation, “The Spirit and the bride say, “Come!” And let the one who hears say, “Come!” Let the one who is thirsty come; and let the one who wishes take the free gift of the water of life.” God is still wishing that none perish but all come to repentance (2 Peter 3:9). God’s final book of “HIS-story” concludes with a warning, “I warn everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this scroll: If anyone adds anything to them, God will add to that person the plagues described in this scroll. And if anyone takes words away from this scroll of prophecy, God will take away from that person any share in the tree of life and in the Holy City, which are described in this scroll.” Jesus IS coming back……and our response is to echo the words here of the apostle John, “Amen. Come, Lord Jesus” And it’s all of grace!!!! SO WHAT?! *Scripture is clear that believers will not face judgment for their sins – which is AWESOME! But it is also clear we will be rewarded “for what we have done.” How are you & I presently involved in the good work God has for you (Ephesians 2:10)? *The final warning reminds us how carefully we are to treat God’s Word, the Bible. It’s can be easy to read verses, translate it into our own lives and then take that translation and make IT God’s word. Be careful – from what I read in 18-19, that would NOT be good to do! Let’s say and teach what the Bible says and teaches and let’s not say and teach what it doesn’t! Which implies, we need to be in it!~ * I am sooooooo grateful for the privilege it has been to study & write devos for these 260 chapters! My prayer was that God would draw me closer to Him and He has answered! I hope they have been a blessing to those who have read them as well. More importantly, I hope reading the new testament has been a blessing. God’s words are living and active, mine are not!

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 259 - Revelation 21: The New Creation

These last two chapters totally ROCK! When Adam & Eve chose to go against God and sin entered our world, one of the results was God’s curse on our planet (Genesis 3:17). We not only live as sinners but in a sinful world and planet, but in this chapter, God changes that! “Then I saw “a new heaven and a new earth, ”for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away…” What will this place be like? Hard to imagine a place without “sea” since 70% of our present planet is covered with water. It will be “Holy” because sin won’t exist. We will literally dwell with God! Tears will be wiped away and there will be no more death or mourning or pain. This will be the Garden of Eden recaptured! Who is this for? “Those who are victorious” – believers for whom Christ secured our victory! “Come, I will show you the bride, the wife of the Lamb.” The capital city of heaven will be brilliantly glorious and like no other ever! · Great wall – symbolizing protection · Jewels as clear as crystal - beauty · 12 amazing gates, 3 on each side – easily go in & out · And our new home is a ginormous cube! o 1400 miles wide, 1400 miles long & 1400 miles high! That’s like the distance from Katy, TX to the Canadian border & from the west coast of the USA to the Mississippi. This is a B-I-G place! · Walls of jasper, city made of gold, multiple foundations of precious stones, a street of clear gold (whatever that is) and gates made of pearls (that is one huge oyster)! Unfathomable! · No sun or moon because God’s glory is more than enough. · Bountifully fruitful trees, river as clear as crystal, no curse, · No night – sorry you nocturnal peeps. · And best of all NO SIN!!! · Indescribable, Incomparable, Sinless, Beautiful Perfection! And all of these are the reward to those who belong to God “whose names are written in the Lamb’s book of life.” SO WHAT?! *Throughout history, believers have been pre-occupied with heaven (Hebrews 11:13, 16) and our citizenship (Philippians 3:20, Colossians 3:2). 1 Peter 2:11 describes us as “aliens” on this earth. So here’s my question: Are you and I looking forward to all that was described in this chapter more than we want all that the world has to offer? Instant gratification, materialism and comforts that this world offers can often blur our view. A heavenly perspective is vital because it causes us to live differently! How’s your perspective? *Give thanks again today to God if your name is written in the Lamb’s book of life and if not, why not go to our Lord and ask Him to write it in there today!

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 258 - Revelation 20: The 1000 Years & The Judgment

Ok, so basically you end up in one of three camps on this 1000 year reign thingy: Pre-millennium – 1000 years is literal, Jesus’ second coming initiates His 1000 year reign and this occurs before the final removal of Satan. Post-millennium - Also literal and Christ return after 1000 years to defeat Satan. Amillennium - 1000 years is figurative and in the hearts of the believers – i.e. the church age. I would classify myself as a pre-trib, pre-mill, rapture hopeful, ‘til further notice. Not that you care, but, just sayn’…..This chapter seems to be broken up into two sections. The first 10 verses are about the coming earthly 1000 year kingdom of Jesus. God is doing these things and HE is in control = “Key” (as if He ever wasn’t). Satan will be removed, all humans who had survived the tribulation are executed at Armageddon. The “Abyss” is a temporary holding place of torment for Satan & his demons. When the 1000 years is over Satan will return to deceive the world (4 corners) and go into a battle. And like Armageddon, it will be an execution – “fire came down from heaven and devoured them. And the devil, who deceived them, was thrown into the lake of burning sulfur, where the beast and the false prophet had been thrown. They will be tormented day and night for ever and ever.” The remainder of the chapter has to do with man’s last day in court, which is quite sobering. This is God’s judgment on sin and unbelieving sinners. “The earth and the heavens fled from his presence…” because they were sinful and to prepare for the new heaven and earth. The “dead” are all unbelievers who have ever lived – remember, believers will NOT face this judgment because they have been washed by the blood of Christ! (Romans 8:1, John 3:18 & 5:24) “Books were opened” – this is a record of every thought, word & deed of every unsaved person – wowsa! Sooooo glad Jesus took those for me!~ “Another book was opened, which is the book of life.” This has the name of every believer, God’s kids! This is the ONE book you want your name in!!! And it says judgment occurred. There will be no appeals, no hung juries, no mistrials at this one. SO WHAT?! *Regardless of where you & I place the 1000 years, the judgment on sin and sinner WILL eventually occur. And it will be just and swift. In light of this are two responses: 1 – Absolute praise and joy for those whose names are written in the book of life! Because by grace through faith we believed in what Jesus did (and we couldn’t do) to make us right with God, we will never face this judgment – WHOOHOO!!!!! Thank you Jesus! 2 – Absolute horror for those who refused to believe and receive God’s offer of forgiveness in Christ, because they will be tormented forever! I pray that you are a part of the first response. If you are, why not tell God thanks today! If you’re not, I beg you to believe and receive Jesus today!

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 257 - Revelation 19: Loud Cheering!

Whew – we made it through chapters 6-18! Certainly 14:16 has proven true: “This calls for patient endurance on the part of the people of God!” Now it’s time for God’s people to sing and this chapter if filled with songs of cheering: The Hallelujah Chorus, Salvation Belongs to Our God, Crown Him with Many Crowns, His Truth is Marching On, Be to Our God, etc…. God has won the battle and the victory causes us to praise the Lord – which is what “hallelujah” means! In this chapter we read of the activity of the angels, the 24 elders, the 4 living creatures and the redeemed saints – all of which are praising the Lord! Why? “For the wedding of the Lamb has come, and his bride has made herself ready.” This will begin the earthly kingdom of God and we see the church (bride) finally pure! And “Blessed are those who are invited to the wedding supper of the Lamb!” Of all the invites you could ever get, this is the best invitation in the universe! We then see the real white horse of victory! Notice the descriptions of Jesus here: “Faithful and True” “The Word of God” “King of Kings and “Lord of Lords” (buy the way, is this one a tattoo?) The antichrist and the false prophet are captured and “thrown alive into the fiery lake of burning sulfur.” The gross metaphors in this chapter are meant to show the completeness of the victory by our Lord. SO WHAT?! *The thing that will consume our relationship with God in heaven is WORSHIP! How are you involved in worshipping our Lord right now? Publically, do you gather with other believers regularly (church) to worship God? We are commanded to (Hebrews 10:24-25). Privately, do you spend regular time with God in the Bible and in prayer? We need to if we want to develop this wonderful relationship with our Creator! *How are you cheering for God? We’ll yell like crazy for our sports teams, but do you & I show our support for God and His ways? I truly believe one of the titles all believers could have is “cheerleader.” In the way we live, in the words we speak, in the things we think about, are you & I “saying” GO GOD!?~

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 256 - Revelation 18: History & Fall of Babylon – Part 2

In this chapter we see God’s judgment on the great Satanic system of evil. In doing so, the Author uses OT accounts of the destruction of harlot cities. These pronouncements come from heavenly authority. ”Fallen! Fallen is Babylon the Great!” This world system in which we live in seeks to deceive us, to distract us, to destroy us and to devour us. And here, in the end, God will destroy it! The believers role is to not follow it with it’s riches, luxuries, boasts and promises but follow Christ! There is tons of imagery in this chapter – too numerous to go through. “In one hour” (3x’s) would be better translated “In such a short time.” Sin looks so good, but like Moses we are to choose to follow God rather than enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season (Hebrews 11:25). “Kings of the earth” are those in leadership. “Merchants of the earth” are those who make money from her.”Every sea captain” are those who suffer loss from hauling her goods. “In one hour such great wealth has been brought to ruin!” Those whose hope is in the world’s system will lose everything when it collapses (Example: Enron). SO WHAT?! *In what or in whom are you trusting in? Finances? Brains? Athletic ability? Accomplishments? Titles? Your spouse? Your broker? Your pastor? Whenever we place our trust in anyone or anything other than God, we will be disappointed! *How are you & I laying up treasures in heaven? If this world and it’s system is truly only temporary, then how are we investing in eternal things?

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 254 - Revelation 16: Seven Bowls of God’s Wrath

In this chapter, the Greek word “megas” appears 16 times, more than anywhere else in the new testament, because them emphasis is on greatness. God sorta’ gets on His megaphone and gives the command. It’s time for the “third woe” (11:14). First Bowl: Recalls the 6th plague under Moses – “ugly, festering sores broke out on the people who had the mark…” This will be a universal & agonizing pain that won’t go away. Second Bowl: “sea…….turned into blood …..and every living thing in the sea died.” Unlike the 3rd trumpet which only affected some water (8:10), this one is universal. Third Bowl: Ok, now the fresh waters are turned to blood, killing all life in them. The first Egyptian plague affected the Nile, here all rivers are affected and people will not be able to tap into the water table like the Egyptians did (Ex 7:24). Then there’s a pause for an angel to sing and somehow the altar agrees – coolz! Fourth Bowl: Intense heat from the sun scorches people. Yet even among this intense agony, there is no repentance, but instead “they cursed the name of God…..refused to repent and glorify Him.” Fifth Bowl: Here, Satan’s entire human system is thrown into disarray & chaos. There is world-wide darkness. People are in such agony that they chew on themselves trying to alleviate the pain. What is sadly more amazing is that wicked men & women will still not repent even when face with such catastrophic conditions! Sixth Bowl: This is parallel to the 6th trumpet. Like the 5th seal, it doesn’t bring immediate pain but prepares for the future – assembling of armies to fight God – a hopeless cause! “Then they gathered the kings together to the place that in Hebrew is called Armageddon.” The three evil spirits I believe represent the combined forces of evil in the world. Seventh Bowl: With the pouring out of this bowl, God’s end time wrath is completed. “It is done” matches Jesus’ words on the cross. This bowl results in the opening of Heaven and the Son of Man coming forth for the final great (“megas”) battle. This earthquake is off the Richter scale! And the destruction somehow even causes islands to flee, mountains to be found nowhere around and 100lb hailstones are tossed at people – mega ouch! The result? “They cursed God.” SO WHAT?! *What physical pain & suffering are you going through right now? As painful as it may be (and I’m not down sizing your pain) it will NEVER COMPARE to the physical pain and agony people will face who do not put their trust & faith in Jesus Christ! TODAY is the day for you to believe if you have not yet done so! Hebrews 3:7-12 *This passage ought to bring an urgency to see our family, our friends and our neighbors Know Jesus & Make Him Known! Lord, help us to lovingly and graciously bring you up with someone today who needs you and please cause them to believe! Acts 16:31

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 255 - Revelation 17: History & Fall of Babylon – Part 1

Chris Tomlin sings, “You and I were made to worship.” These words chime with the words of God in Ecclesiastes 3:11. We all have this “God-shaped vacuum” inside of us and our enemy wants us to try to fill it with everything but God. Throughout history, Babylon has been an important center for false worship. I’ll split this devo into 3 sections: The Woman & the Beast (1-6a): “great prostitute” is a metaphor for false religion, idolatry & the word’s evil system. The “kings of the earth” are unbelieving people of hiogh ranks eho commit spiritual adultery. He “woman” is sitting on (supported by) the beast (the anti-christ). She is dresses spiritually attractive – purple (royalty), scarlet (blood), gold, stones & pearls. She had a “name written” points to their culture where prostitutes had to identify themselves. I don’t believe Babylon so much represents a geographic location as much as a symbol of all worldliness. She is bad stuff and is “drunk with the blood of God’s holy people, the blood of those who bore testimony to Jesus.” “Explanation” by the Angel (6b-14): Ok – John is confused……..and I can relate! 7 heads = 7 hills: This may be Rome. 7 Kings could represent 7 world empires: At this time, Egypt, Assyria, Babylon, Medo-Persian & Greece had fallen, but not Rome and one yet to come. Almost sounds like the beast is both the 7th & 8th King, which is possible if you count the fake resurrection – I’m not sure on this stuff….hehe… I DO know they come with one agenda – to wage war! “But the Lamb will triumph over them because he is Lord of lords and King of kings.” Judgment of the Woman (15-18): I believe the waters represent world-wide domination. The extreme and graphic violence done to the prostitute is God’s judgment on her – “God’s words are fulfilled.” SO WHAT?! *Are you or I guilty of spiritual adultery? What does that look like? How about any time we worship anything or anyone other than God – gulp! What is the focus of our thoughts? Stuff? Pleasure? Recognition? Accomplishments? Abilities? Etc… Lord, please help me to keep my eyes on YOU and my hands reaching out to a world that desperately needs you! *In what ways have you bought into this evil world’s system and it’s lies? Lets spend time in God’s Word, filling out minds with truth so we can spot fakes as they come!

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 253 - Revelation 15: Preparing to Pour Out God’s Final Wrath

What do you & I worry about? The future? Finances? Our kids be ok? Terrorism? Aging? Political problems? Moral decline? Global Warming? As God prepares to unleash His wrath, what should worry sinners most is what He will do! God has given plenty of warnings throughout the Bible. This chapter fulfills things already spoken of in 6:17, 11:14, 11:18, 14:10 & 14:14-20. “I saw in heaven another great and marvelous sign: seven angels with the seven last plagues—last, because with them God’s wrath is completed.” Seven is the number of perfection & completion in the Bible. Our marvelous God fulfills what He promises. The plagues are the bowl judgments of the next chapter. John’s vision is of the throne room of God and he sees “what looked like a sea of glass glowing with fire and, standing beside the sea, those who had been victorious…” It’s not a sea (21:1) but seems to be some kind of platform before God’s throne. These people are the believers who were saved during the tribulation (through much pain & violence) and are now victorious! God gives them instruments so they can sing a “song of Moses.” When the Israelites crossed the Red Sea they sang a song of victory – same here. It’s about the Lamb’s faithfulness, deliverance & judgment. We conclude with a glimpse of God’s holy, eternal & majestic presence. Like all times in the Bible when we read of God’s presence, it’s awesomeness is too much for man to be near due to our sinfulness. SO WHAT?! *What is your favorite worship song? Take a moment today and sing God that song of worship. Meditate on the words and give thanks. *God’s way are not always understandable. John MacArthur says, “It’s an amazing paradox – that God is busily saving sinners…..from His own wrath!”

Christmas Present Ideas for JESUS!

Each year when Christmas arrives and I reflect on Jesus' birthday, I always think it's the most awkward birthday party ever. Think about it: Everyone arrives, we may or may not take time to talk to the guest of honor, then we all rip into HIS presents. Ok, maybe I'm just a bit weird, but to me that's awkward. So, a few years ago, as I became more frustrated with this awkward party, I began searching for ways to help it be less awkward. Here are some ideas to help us all: Christmas Present Ideas for Jesus! • Visit hospital patients who can’t go home for the holidays. Bring gifts, cookies, etc…and share the Gospel. • Give a days wages, $ you saved, etc… to a rescue mission, Salvation Army, a missionary, etc… • Volunteer time/service at your church – cleaning, repairing, etc… • Buy socks & blankets and take them to the homeless with some food. • Visit those unable to get out & about, in nursing homes, jail, etc… • When eating at restaurants, ask the waiter/waitress how you can pray for them. • Pay for the car behind you in the drive-thru line. • Invite friends over for a Christmas party – have games, snacks & a speaker who will share the Christmas story about Jesus. • Write letters of encouragement to those who need a “written hug.” • Wrap gifts up for Jesus (commitments, $ for needy, goals, etc…) – open them first! • Include tracts/cards when you pay your bills, when you drive thru fast food places, when you give gifts, etc… • Sing Christmas Carols at stores, in your neighborhoods, etc… • Don’t let people be “home alone” on Christmas. Invite them to part of your celebration. • Help the elderly/widows with a meal, yard work, etc… • Ask local stores if you can wrap gifts, help carry out packages, etc…. all All for FREE!!! • Bring lunch to a retirement home and share the Christmas story – the Gospel. • Create a birthday card for Jesus. Write in it what you would tell Him if you could hand it to Him in person. • Have a Birthday Party for Jesus or a pinata’ for kids in the neighborhood. • Take your family to a stinky old barn on Christmas morning and read thru the Christmas story. • Get some families together and buy a bunch of NEW cloths, toys, etc.. and have a FREE garage sale in a poorer neighborhood. • Cater in lunch for teachers at your student’s school and leave gift books that tell the story of Jesus. • For every dollar you spend at Christmas, give the same amount to your church, missionaries and other Jesus-centered ministries. • Not much $ - Make a “kind deeds” Christmas book & give it to your parents. Coupons for “I’ll cook dinner”, “I’ll do the laundry”, “free kid-sitting”, etc… • Leave a gift card in the mailbox with the Christmas story for your postal worker. • Take a homeless person to lunch. • Have a Christmas cookie exchange – and a speaker to share the Gospel. • Go to the mall, Look for lonely people sitting on a bench and talk to them about Christmas. • Invite a neighbor, friend or family member to Christmas Eve service. • REMEMBER JESUS EACH & EVERY DAY OF THE YEAR!!! GIVE & LIVE YOUR LIFE FOR HIM!!! “I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for Me.” Matthew 25:40

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 252 - Revelation 14: The Lamb, 144,000 & Multiple Angels

In chapters 12 & 13 we see the suffering of believers. In this chapter, we see that their sacrifice is worth it! It begins with the Lamb, Jesus, standing on Mt Zion, as apposed to the dragon standing on the shifting sand. He had the 144,000 witnesses (ch 7) with Him and they were marked as His, sort of a forehead tattoo. “And they sang a new song before the throne and before the four living creatures and the elders. No one could learn the song except the 144,000 who had been redeemed from the earth.” The singing will only be by those who belong to God because He purchased them with Jesus’ blood. Then an amazing statement is given, “They follow the Lamb wherever he goes.” Then we see four climactic announcements: The Eternal Gospel is offered “to every nation, tribe, language and people.” The motivation to fear Him is “because the hour of his judgment has come.” The Fall of Babylon is pronounced. This can refer to either an actual city on the Euphrates or to the world’s system of evil. Regardless, people did not accept the offer in 6-7 and are judged. This wil be discussed more in chapters 17-18. The Torment of the Beast Worshippers is clear. Those who take the mark and/or worship the beast, as discussed in the previous chapter, will receive from God their due punishment. Those Who Die in the Lord are blessed and “will rest from their labor.” In the end, living for Jesus is totally worth it! The chapter ends with an agricultural bent. Like a farmer harvesting his crops, there will be a separating of the faithful from the unfaithful. I believe the metaphors mentioned here point to a divine judgment that Jesus will bring and is put in terms of a harvest. SO WHAT?! *What response is stirred up within you to know that you are marked by God and are His? Worship is the answer in this chapter! What is your answer? What is mine? *It was said of these believes that they followed the Lamb wherever He went. How would this or does this look like in our lives? *Fear of eternal punishment, torment and hell is not a bad motivation for believing. It’s not the only one, but it’s not a bad one. The very reason I first believed in Jesus was because I didn’t want to be left behind when God returned. What motivates you the most to follow Jesus?

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 251 - Revelation 13: The Beasts

Ok, it’s a big fight, it’s round 2, and the bell has rung. In this chapter we are presented with two “beasts.” The Beast out of the Sea (1-10): This is the “antichrist”, the false messiah, who is given political power (seen in description) and spoken of in 1 John 2:18. “One of the heads of the beast seemed to have had a fatal wound, but the fatal wound had been healed. The whole world was filled with wonder and followed the beast. People worshiped the dragon because he had given authority to the beast, and they also worshiped the beast and asked, “Who is like the beast? Who can wage war against it?” This world leader will be powered by Satan, will deceive, be seen as a savior and be loved by all for the first half of the tribulation period. He will be proud, arrogant and will speak against God and His people. “This calls for patient endurance and faithfulness on the part of God’s people.” The Beast out of the Earth (11-18): This second beast is elsewhere called the “false prophet” (16:13, 19:20, 20:10) and is given power to do miracles, but “Because of the signs it was given power to perform on behalf of the first beast, it deceived the inhabitants of the earth.” Now we’ve gone from a savior of a leader to being forced to follow him or die! “It also forced all people, great and small, rich and poor, free and slave, to receive a mark on their right hands or on their foreheads, so that they could not buy or sell unless they had the mark, which is the name of the beast or the number of its name……666.” People will now be forced to take the mark or starve! This mark identifies you with Satan and against God! SO WHAT?! *When was the last time you were tricked or deceived? Truth is, most of us have bought into something only to find out later we’d been tricked. It’s livable if it involves a purchase or duty. Buy when our soul is on the line, we’d better know the truth! How are you and I preparing so that we won’t be deceived? Best way spot a counterfeit is to regularly spend time in the REAL thing – God’s Word, and with the Author! Are you? *Jesus told us this would happen in Matthew 24: “For false messiahs and false prophets will appear and perform great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect. See, I have told you ahead of time.”

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 250 - Revelation 12: The Woman, The Male Child & The Dragon

The title almost sounds like it should be a CS Lewis book doesn’t it?!~ What we read today is kinda’ like a sketch of the hidden forces behind the climax of the seven bowls to be poured out. It shows the initial rebellion of Satan (Isaiah 14:13-15) and the impact that has had throughout human history. First off, I’ll give my take on the characters: The woman = nation Israel, the male child = Jesus, and the dragon = Satan. The Woman is described as “clothed with the sun, with the moon under her feet and a crown of twelve stars on her head.” Bible guys smarter than me say these are references to Jacob, Rachel and the 12 tribes. I get the 12 tribes thing. The idea of her about to give carries the idea that this Messiah came from the Jewish nation and the pain being the faithful who are suffering and/or the rejection of Jesus as their Messiah. The Male Child represents Jesus, who “will rule all the nations with an iron scepter”, the foretold Messiah who was to come and did! The Dragon is clearly Satan (vs 9) whose goal is to finish off this Messiah. The bell has been rung and the fight is about to begin! Historically, the 1/3 stars that the dragon sweeps out of the sky & hurls to earth are the angels who joined Satan’s rebellion and became enemies of God, demons. This dragon’s plan is to kill this male child right after He is born, but God had other plans! This baby is swept up to heaven and the woman is sent into the wilderness for 1260 days (3 ½ years). We then read that war breaks out in heaven between Michael & God’s angels and Satan & his demons. And of course, God wins and the description in 10-12 is awesome! But, it’s not over. The dragon is ticked and what we read next would have made today’s special effects movies seem lame! It reads, “from his mouth the serpent spewed water like a river, to overtake the woman and sweep her away with the torrent. But the earth helped the woman by opening its mouth and swallowing the river that the dragon had spewed out of his mouth.” Now this would have been cool to see! So then, yeah, he gets more ticked and decides to take his anger out on faithful believers. SO WHAT?! *The things we read here and in upcoming chapters are a bitter-sweet. Yes I want Jesus to finally come and conquer evil for good. At the same time, I’m still wanting my friends, my family and my neighbors to come to believe and receive Jesus Christ! So the question of the urgent is, “Am I being intentional to Know Jesus & Make Him Known with my life?” How about you?

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 249 - Revelation 11: Measurement, 2 Witnesses, 7th Trumpet

Ok, I think today’s passage is one of the most difficult passages in Revelation to interpret. With that said, here are my thoughts… 1-2: John is told to go and measure the temple, altar & it’s worshippers. Inventory is often taken of one’s possessions and the temple belonged to God. Seems to also be a sense that those measured are secure in God and those not measured are not – most likely unbelieving Gentiles who will oppress the Jews just before Christ returns. The 42 months = 1260 days or 3 ½ years and predicted in the book of Daniel. The main comfort I take from this is that the reign of evil WILL have an end! 3-6: God then sends 2 fire-breathing witnesses. Most likely these are Moses & Elijah. Both were at the transfiguration, Malachi 4:5 says Elijah will appear during this time, “no rain” alludes to Elijah and “water to blood” alludes to Moses. Regardless, anyone who tries to hurt these two witnesses is toast! They will preach repentance, foretell the future and restore Israel to her land. 7-10: The beast here is not Satan himself, but certainly demonic and will kill these two witnesses. Their bodies will be left in the streets for 3 ½ days to enhance the insult. People will be glad they were slain and even celebrate. Somehow (TV/satellite/internet) the whole world will see this. 11-12: When these two come back to life, absolute fear will come upon those who were rejoicing. If murder is the ultimate weapon of mankind and it doesn’t work, that will bring terror! God will then call them up to heaven and everyone will watch them go. Those left behind will be freaking out – wondering what will happen to them next. 13-14: Their fears came true as “there was a severe earthquake and a tenth of the city collapsed. Seven thousand people were killed in the earthquake, and the survivors were terrified and gave glory to the God of heaven.” This is not the third “woe”, that is still to come. 15-19: The 7th Trumpet sounds and heaven celebrates the transferring of power from Satan back to the True King! BUT, before the contents of the 7th trumpet are disclosed (Ch 16), there is some lengthy background given (ch 12-15) so we can better understand those coming judgments. SO WHAT?! *God is measuring our hearts right now. More important to God than what we say or do is our heart. How does your heart for God measure up? Do you & I treasure the things of God above all other things? Two big indicators are our schedules and our checkbooks. What do they show? *Being a true witness for Jesus can cost us our lives? But even if it doesn’t, it should cost us something. What have you & I sacrificed for our Lord? *How has God lifted you up because you were obedient. He did it with these two witnesses physically, but how about with us? Lovingly take a stand for God - it’s worth it! *Finally, God is STILL offering hope! Regardless what kind of mess you are in, God is in the restoration and transformation business – and he’s GREAT at it!

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 248 - Revelation 10: “No More Delay”

No, I’m not talking about the guilty republican (ha,ha), I’m speaking of what the swearing angels says in verse 6. (good swearing) The content of 10:1-11:14 act as an interlude and the second of two “parenthesis” in Revelation. This one occurs before the 7th trumpet (3rd woe) sounds. This section is preparation for the final trumpet and focuses on God being in control. It’s an announcement of the end to come, a preparation for the future. The Angel’s Announcement (1-7): “Then I saw another mighty angel coming down from heaven.” – the scene again shifts from heaven to earth. This could be Michael or Gabriel but doesn’t have to be. And the description……..amazingly angelic: “robed in a cloud, with a rainbow above his head; his face was like the sun, and his legs were like fiery pillars.” Have your Sunday school students draw & color this one! Then as the angel is about to speak and John is grabbing his pen to write it down, he is told “Seal up what the seven thunders have said and do not write it down.” Ya’ know, sometimes even though you don’t understand, ya’ just obey. The angel raises his right hand & swears to God (really!), “There will be no more delay! But in the days when the seventh angel is about to sound his trumpet, the mystery of God will be accomplished, just as he announced to his servants the prophets.” John Told to Prophecy (8-11): So then the angel tells John to “take the scroll and eat it.” It’s gonna’ make you sick but do it any way! And no, John was not in need of some fiber for his diet! I believe that the bitterness of eating that scroll paralleled the bitterness of the trumpet judgment to soon come. And the sweetness is paralleled with the joy of God fulfilling His plan! “Then I was told, “You must prophesy again about many peoples, nations, languages and kings.” SO WHAT?! *It’s hard to imagine the worldwide devastation that has already occurred and be told it will get worse. Panic & fear will be the daily norm and the psychological consequences of that alone will be huge as well. TODAY is the day to get right with God. Lord forgive me and thank you for paying the price for MY sin so that I could be brought into a right relationship with you! Your love is amazing!!!

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 247 - Revelation 9: 5th & 6th Trumpets

How far will God go to get our attention? As far as punishing His own Son for our sin in order to show how much He cares as well as hates sin.! Today we continue with the trumpet judgments. With the final three trumpets come three “woes.” 5th Trumpet – First Woe: In the first 12 verses God unleashes a horde of supernatural demonic creatures (never seen locusts like this!) who spread as much misery as possible. Somehow they inflict pain on all “who did not have the seal of God on their foreheads……..…for five months.” How bad will this be? “During those days people will seek death but will not find it; they will long to die, but death will elude them.” This will be a painful time for unbelievers and the description of these war-like creatures is difficult to imagine! 6th Trumpet – Second Woe: “Release the four angels……….and the four angels……..were released to kill a third of mankind. The number of the mounted troops was twice ten thousand times ten thousand. I heard their number.” This death toll from this army of 200,000 will be significantly larger than any ever before. And want to talk freakish – they’ll do it with “fire, smoke & sulfur” out of their mouths & in their tails – which were like snakes with heads!~ Wow – fire breathing horses with heads like lions and tails like snakes! What is both shocking, as well as sad, is that even in spite of all this, people still did not turn to God: They “did not repent of the work of their hands; they did not stop worshiping demons, and idols of gold, silver, bronze, stone and wood—idols that cannot see or hear or walk. Nor did they repent of their murders, their magic arts, their sexual immorality or their thefts.” SO WHAT?! *Lets take some time today to thank God for revealing Himself to us and that by His grace through faith we can be saved! *What idols do you & I have? Ok, maybe not statues, but how about money? Academics? Clothes? Trucks? Pleasure? Stuff? iPods? iPhones? iPads? Idomtknow?!~ Anything that we give more attention to more than God. Lord, help me to make you #!1 in my life each day!

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 246 - Revelation 8: Seventh Seal & First Four Trumpets

Yeah, yeah, so my title is not that creative, but it IS what happens in this chapter! Anyway, take the next 60 seconds and be absolutely quiet. Our scene has shifted back to the throne room of God – and there is silence for 30 minutes - a reverence to God. This is the calm before the storm. The opening of this seventh seal contains the seven trumpet judgments, which will make the previous judgments look puny. First off, an angel delivers the prayers of the saints and they are offered to God as a sweet aroma. It’s amazing to think that our prayers are sweet to God! “Then the angel took the censer, filled it with fire from the altar, and hurled it on the earth; and there came peals of thunder, rumblings, flashes of lightning and an earthquake.” Look out, here it comes… 1st Trumpet – 1/3 of Vegetation Burns Up: “…hail, and fire mixed with blood” is sent to earth. God is using nature to punish mankind. These are the judgments that are held back in 7:3. 2nd Trumpet – 1/3 of Sea Life Destroyed: “…something like a huge mountain, all ablaze, was thrown into the sea.” Fish can’t live in blood and ships burn from this mountainous size chunk. And remember, we get much of our oxygen from algae & stuff in the sea. 3rd Trumpet – 1/3 of Fresh Water Poisoned: “…a great star, blazing like a torch, fell from the sky on a third of the rivers and on the springs of water.” There will be a water shortage and many people will die from the lethal & bitter poison of the wormwood. 4th Trumpet – 1/3 of the Heavenly Bodies are Darkened: “…a third of the sun was struck, a third of the moon, and a third of the stars, so that a third of them turned dark. A third of the day was without light, and also a third of the night.” Imagine the affect on agriculture, navigation, human health, productivity, etc… The chapter ends with yet another announcement, this time by an eagle: “Woe! Woe! Woe to the inhabitants of the earth, because of the trumpet blasts about to be sounded by the other three angels!” Let me translate – It’s gonna’ get worse. SO WHAT?! *There is a lot of similarities in the seals & trumpets to old testament plagues & prophecies that are too numerous to go into. But this I know. This is God’s judgment on a world that didn’t want Him. How about you & me. Do we “desire” God more than anything else. Well, probably not, at least not on our own. But by His Holy Spirit we can! Lord, we love you, we need you and we don’t stand a chance without you!

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 245 - Revelation 7: 144,000 & Those in White Robes

“After this…” This chapter represents another new vision for John. It answers the question in 6:17, “Who can withstand it?” It’s kinda’ like a parenthesis between the 6th & 7th seal and it contrasts the preparedness of God’s people with the panic of the unprepared world. So, you have four angels with power to destroy, covering the whole earth (4 corners = 4 directions on the compass) and for now, holding back. Why? Because God has to put His seal on them first. Only the true servants of God, who are sealed, can be protected from this judgment! We are then given the exact number – 12,000 from each of the 12 tribes. We believe this group of 144,000 will carry God’s message to the world during the difficult days of the tribulation. This is not ALL the faithful, bust a specific group of them given this responsibility to witness at this time. Most likely Christian Jews. The next thing John sees to write down is “a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb.” This group of people have be cleansed of their sins (white robes) and are praising God big time! I love this next part – one of the elders asks John “These in white robes—who are they, and where did they come from?” Like John really knows, so he replies, “Sir, you know.” And he does! “These are they who have come out of the great tribulation; they have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.” These are Jews & Gentiles who have turned to God in the tribulation and died. As a result, they too have been washed of their sins! SO WHAT?! *God knows & seals those who are His! Once you are a child of God, you can never not be! How awesome is that?!~! Are you “Hizkid?” *Yes, there will be a multitude of those who get left behind in the rapture (if you’re pre-trib) that turn to God. It will cost them their lives, yet it will happen. But why put off believing? A heart attack, a car wreck or whatever can always occur at anytime and then it will be too late. 2 Corinthians 6:2 says, “I tell you, now is the time of God’s favor, now is the day of salvation.”

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 244 - Revelation 6: Seal Judgments

What is the worst thing you’ve ever had to endure? Being picked on, beat up, having a close friend die or something worse? As painful as these things are, none of these will even compare to the devastating judgment God will unleash in the future. (At this point, I’ll interject my personal timeline thoughts. I believe the rapture - 1 Thessalonians 4 - occurs before chapter 6, probably after chapter 3. This would make me a pre-trib rapture hopeful ‘til further notice – LOL!) We’ve come to the portion in Revelation where God begins judging a sinful world. This is the first of three seven part judgments – 7 seals, 7 trumpets & 7 bowls. The seventh one of each opens the first one of the next. The scene now shifts from heaven to earth. 1st Seal – Conquering Power: “There before me was a white horse! Its rider held a bow, and he was given a crown, and he rode out as a conqueror bent on conquest.” I believe this first rider represents the anti-christ and the forces of evil. He & his evil regime will deceive many, appear as counterfeits (white = counterfeit purity), everyone will like him at first and he will attain worldwide domination. But it will only be be temporary. 2nd Seal – War & Bloodshed: “Then another horse came out, a fiery red one. Its rider was given power to take peace from the earth and to make people kill each other. To him was given a large sword.” Red symbolizes slaughter & he’s given a sword because the number he kills will be so great. And whatever restraints there have been up to this point are removed and peace is no more. 3rd Seal – Famine & Poverty: “I looked, and there before me was a black horse! Its rider was holding a pair of scales in his hand.” With this judgment comes the scarcity of food. It will be both difficult to find and so expensive that poverty will come upon many. 4th Seal – Death: “There before me was a pale horse! Its rider was named Death…..they were given power……to kill….” Pale = sickly, look of terror and hell is the horse of death! The magnitude of this catastrophe can hardly be grasped. ¼ of the people of the earth (over 1.6 billion right now) killed?!~ 5th Seal – Martyrs & Vengeance: “I saw under the altar the souls of those who had been slain because of the word of God and the testimony they had maintained. They called out…..“How long, Lord ……..until you judge the inhabitants of the earth?” God will not forget those who paid the price for Him……and it will only be “a little longer.” 6th Seal – Earth & Universe Collapse: “There was a great earthquake, the sun turned black, the whole moon turned blood red, the stars fell to earth, the heavens receded and every mountain & island was removed from its place.” Wowsa - a galactical catastrophe of this kind is unfathomable – but it WILL occur just as written! What will all of this do? Although some will survive these events, this devastating terror will bring fear to every category of humanity! People of all kinds will hide and wish they were dead rather than facing the wrath of God. SO WHAT?! *What emotions do the events of this chapter bring you? Even as a believer, I have fear – fear for my friends and family members who have not yet believed & received. Lord, please turn this fear into an urgent compassion that results in me sharing Jesus with them – even before the end of this year! *God is serious about sin. His judgments are complete and no one can hide from Him. YET HE IS SO LOVING that He offers us a way to be made right with Him through Jesus Christ! If you have never put your trust in Christ alone for the forgiveness of your sins and eternal life – now is the time! “For the great day of their wrath has come, and who can withstand it?”

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 243 - Revelation 5: Seven-Sealed Scroll of the Lamb

Worthy-ness is also a theme of Revelation – because God alone is worthy. The contents of this scroll will take up the remainder of this book - and our brains! So here’s my disclaimer: As we dive in deeper in each of these devotions, just remember, they are devos, not in-depth Bible studies of the end times! Just sayin’… John now notices a scroll in the right hand (power) of God and an angel asking who can open it. This bums out John because no one is found worthy until an elder says “Do not weep! See, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has triumphed. He is able to open the scroll and its seven seals.” Jesus takes the scroll and immediately the 4 creatures & 24 elders are thrilled to fall down in worship and begin to sing (1st choir)! They give the reason Jesus is able to open it, “because you were slain, and with your blood you purchased for God persons from every tribe and language and people and nation.” Then an angelic choir (yes - really, they were angels) joins in song, “Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and praise!” (2nd choir) Then everyone else joins in, “To him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be praise and honor and glory and power, for ever and ever!” (3rd choir) SO WHAT?! *What if Jesus had not died for my sins and been resurrected? Could He have opened the scroll? (1 Corinthians 15:14-19) When Jesus took that scroll from his Father’s hand all those around the throne were ecstatic! It should thrill us as well to know that He is worthy and that what Jesus did for us was enough! *How’s your worship? Privately – do you spend time daily with Jesus? Then publically, how do you treat Sunday morning worship services? Are you bored or thrilled?!~! Where our treasure is, there our heart will be also.

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 242 - Revelation 4: The Throne in Heaven

A few years back I attempted to draw (I have artistic deficiency) this chapter on a sheet of paper. I know, crazy exercise, but it helped me to try to get an idea of what John was seeing. Just as John’s first vision ends, he is summoned for a second one “Come up here, and I will show you what must take place after this.” Remember our structure: chapter one = “what was”, chapters 2-3 = “what is” and the rest of Revelation is “what is to come.” Not maybe, not could be, but fixed and certain, these things literally “must” happen. “Throne” is used 37 times in Revelation (13 in this chapter). That’s because it represents authority & rule and when we talk about God we are talking about the one who is in control and ruling! John is attempting to describe the indescribable God. So, if you don’t totally get it, join the club! God the Father’s appearance is awesome! (Check out Ezekiel 1 too). And so is His throne room! So you’ve got God on His throne, and it’s surrounded by four creatures that you won’t find at your local zoo! In front of them are 7 blazing lampstands and some kind of amazing looking sea encompassed by some kind of round rainbow. Around all of these are 24 “elders” (men or angels I’m not sure) who are in white, each have thrones and are repeatedly laying down their crowns, bowing down and telling God He is worthy! And all of this with quite the pyro-tech show of lightning & thunder. Pretty clear huh?!~! Oh, and God the Father is holding a scroll – oops = next chapter! SO WHAT?! *The picture of God on His throne brings numerous applications: 1 - God is in Control: As much as you & I like to be control freaks, it’s only perceived control. Only God is truly in control. “You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they were created and have their being.” 2 - The throne represents judgment. In the remainder of this book we will read of God’s judgment on those who reject Him. For now, we live in an age of grace where God is offering opportunity for all to believe, but this time period will end. So - Don’t be that guy! Put your trust in Jesus today. *3 – A response of reverence is given by everyone. Many today blow off and mock the things of God. Some day that will all change. Every knee WILL bow and every tongue WILL confess that Jesus Christ is Lord. Let’s make Jesus known so people can confess Him now & receive eternal life, instead of judgment when it’s too late.

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 241 - Revelation 3: Complacency, Deliverance & Luke-Warmness

John continues in this chapter to bring Jesus message to the remaining three of the seven churches. SARDIS: Complacency – This was a church that had grown careless and indifferent to spiritual things, they had gotten “comfortable” in their spiritual lives. “You have a reputation of being alive, but you are dead.” You can’t live off of past spirituality! There is no neutral in the Christian life. It’s an uphill road and if we put our life in neutral we will actually backslide. The cure? “Wake up! Strengthen what remains and is about to die.....Remember, therefore, what you have received and heard; hold it fast, and repent.” Yet, not all those in Sardis had fallen like this. PHILADELPHIA – Promised Deliverance – Jesus said of the faithful in this church, “you have kept my word and have not denied my name….. you have kept my command to endure patiently.” Wow – wouldn’t we love to hear this from Jesus about us!~ As a result, Jesus promises them “an open door, that their enemies will bow down to them and that He will deliver them from the hour of trial.” Hang in there Philadelphia! LAODICEA – Luke-Warmness – Jesus’ most scathing rebuke is given to this church. They were not commended for anything – yikes! These people, by their own self-evaluation were rich and didn’t need anyone’s help. They “had it all.” But God’s evaluation was quite different, “You do not realize that you are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind and naked.” Not that they didn’t have lots of “rich” stuff, but Jesus was addressing their spiritual condition! Rich in resources is not equivalent to rich in heart. These people were not on fire for God, and yet, they had enough good looking deeds to not be considered cold – they were lukewarm. Ever drank lukewarm water? Disgusting! And that is what God thinks of people like this, “I am about to spit you out of my mouth.” The cure? “Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest and repent. Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me.” Jesus is waiting for us to come to him in humility and repentance! SO WHAT?! *Have you watched God doing amazing things through you and to you? I hope so! The danger is if we live on that experience and never see God do anything more. I once heard it said, “If you’re not as close to God today as you were yesterday, guess who moved?” It’s stuck with me. God’s work in lives is always meant to be fresh. Let’s not be complacent and lets stick close to God each day so we can experience & share His fresh work. *What are you facing that is tough and overwhelming? Go to God during those times, keep His word and don’t become bitter. If you do, then be assured that God will deliver you! *How’s you walk with Jesus? Hot? Cold? Or puke-warm?!~ We get one chance to live this life for Him – let’s not be lame!

260 in 2012 - DEVOS - Day 240 - Revelation 2: Lost Love, Suffering, Compromise & Tolerance

In the next two chapters Jesus gives John the “What IS” section of this book - specifically, the current state of the churches mentioned. Jesus is dictating a letter to each of these 7 churches and the structure is the same: - It’s always written to “the angel” or messenger of that church. Probably the one who delivered the message. - Next we get who it’s from, which is always a different description of Jesus. And it always with this phrase, “I know.” This indicating there is nothing we can hide from Jesus! - Then, in 6 of the 7, we are given what Jesus commends that church for. - This is followed by what Jesus rebukes that church for – 2 of the 7 received no rebuke. - Then each church is commanded to change in some way so to better represent Him. - And finally, each church is given a promise of some sort – “to him who overcomes.” Ok – so let’s look at the first four churches: EPHESUS – Lost Love: The description of Jesus here tells us that He is in control, He’s actively checking out churches & determining how their “light” or life is. Ephesus receives a pretty good beginning evaluation: hard working, perseverance, don’t put up with wicked men, tested peeps, endured hardships and hadn’t given up! But they had “forsaken the love they had at first.” It’s easy to start doing ministry out of love for Jesus and after a while to lose that devotion and enthusiasm and let it become routine & repetitious! The cure? “Repent and do the things you did at first.” If not, I’ll remove your lampstand – Yikes! Jesus says He will take away the light & testimony for Him of any church that will not repent! SMYRNA – Suffering: Jesus is described as “The First and the Last”, pointing to His control, which is comforting if you’re suffering like Smyrna was. As poor as Smyrna was (financially & materially), Jesus said they were RICH! They had Jesus and He knew the suffering they were going through and were yet to go through more for Him. No rebuke here, just comfort from the Lord: “Do not be afraid” and “Be faithful.” If you do = LIFE, victor’s crown, = i.e. you win! PERGAMUM – Compromise: Jesus is described as “the sharp, double-edged sword” (see Heb 4:12-13), the idea being to divide truth from error. This was a church that had remained true to Jesus in both a difficult area and through difficult circumstances. But Jesus says they have compromised. They’ve let false teaching in their church. The cure? “Repent therefore!” – Or face judgment from Jesus. THYATIRA – Tolerance: Another good beginning evaluation as they are commended for their love, faith, service, perseverance and doing more than when they began – hey, ministry was booming! Yet Jesus rebukes them because they are “tolerating that woman Jezebel.” Somehow there were some who had rationalized her behavior and were permitting it in the church. She won’t repent of her sexual immorality so Jesus gives her a punishment that fits her crime. SO WHAT?! *”Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says…” – The idea is we are to listen up! God is serious about His Church and wants it to be a light that helps people see Him. And if His church (you & I) is not a light, look out! *Has your fire for Jesus dwindled to a smolder? Are you just going through the motions and “doing church”? In the words of the song, have you “lost that loving feeling?” If so, God’s arms are open wide for you to run to Him, to love & be loved again! Don’t put it off, MAKE time today and lets pray like David in Psalm 51 “Restore me to the joy of Your salvation!” *What are you going through right now for the sake of Christ? Maybe you’ve lost friends because of your stand. Maybe you’re being made fun of at school. It can cost you grades, your job, reputations, friendships, etc… but please know it is worth it! Jesus said, “Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you life as your victor’s crown. The one who is victorious will not be hurt at all by the second death.” *Finally, is there sin that you are allowing or rationalizing in your own life, your ministry or your church? Addressing sin today isn’t looked upon as kind, but it’s Biblical and it is needed, because it affects the whole. The great news is that if we confess it to God, desire to turn from it, He can transform us and make us the kind of reps He wants us to be for Him! Lord forgive me for the issues I have not addressed and need to. Help me to turn from my wrong ways as well as lovingly address the issues I am aware of that I’ve put off!

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 239 - Revelation 1: What Was, What Is, What Is To Come

Intro to Revelation: We live in a culture that is fascinated with the future: horoscopes, palm readers, the occult, psychic hotlines (they knew you’d call), etc… The future fascinates us because we’re all a bit intrigued with what lies ahead. If only there were a book that would tell us what that is!~ Well, God gave us one – the Bible – and within that book, the sub-book called Revelation. The word translates “Apocalypse” which means “to uncover or unveil.” Revelation doesn’t hide the truth but reveals it! It is John’s last writing and God is revealing to him what WILL literally (not figuratively) happen in the future. He wrote it in approximately 92-94 AD while exiled on the island of Patmos and was written to the 7 churches in Asia (and all believers). It has a very clear structure seen in vs. 19 that is repeated throughout (1:4, 1:8, 4:8, 11:17, 16:5): What Was: “what you have seen” = The vision John had just seen (Ch 1) What Is: “what is now” = the letters to the churches (Ch 2-3) What Is To Come: “what will take place later” (Ch 4-22) It’s a book chucked full of prophecy. 278 of the 404 verses (yeah, too much free time) allude to OT prophecies! It’s a book of praise – There are tons of hymns & songs written from these chapters. It’s also a book of both hope (for the believer) and warning (for unbelievers). And although many of the very specific details are unknown, what God intends to have occur at the end of time is clear. So – wanna’ know how this “life on earth” thing ends? Do you want the ultimate action thriller? Then read Revelation with me because, “blessed are those who hear it and take to heart what is written in it, because the time is near.” Revelation 1: What WAS, What IS, What IS TO COME “The revelation from Jesus Christ” – God is revealing to John what will occur at Jesus’ second coming (His first coming was “Christmas” when He became a man). This book reveals Jesus – “who is, who was and who is to come.” Another reference to Jesus being God because these words can only be true of “the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God, “who is, and who was, and who is to come, the Almighty.” So, we pick up the story as John is out chillin’ in the Spirit and hears “a loud voice like a trumpet” that tells him to “Write on a scroll what you see and send it to the seven churches.” John turns around to see who is speaking to him and attempts describe the indescribable Lord! Nice try John. And, like all in the Bible who come into the very presence of God, John falls face down in fear! The immense holiness and intense awesomeness of God will always cause unholiness to shudder. Jesus taps him, says it’s ok (whew), and identifies Himself: “I am the First and the Last. I am the Living One; I was dead, and now look, I am alive for ever and ever!” This is Jesus! And He is in charge of eternity for every soul! Jesus tells John to grab a pen & paper (ok, maybe ink & papyrus) and write down what He’s gonna’ tell him, “what you have seen, what is now and what will take place later.” So John played secretary to Jesus and wrote Revelation – the very words of God! How Awesome is that!!! SO WHAT?! *The Gospels reveal Jesus’ first coming as one of humiliation, offering grace. Revelation reveals Jesus second coming as one of exaltation, pronouncing judgment to those who don’t believe. The urgency for our friends to believe has never been so high. Christmas time is an easy time to turn conversations to Jesus. Lord give us opportunities TODAY to share your love! *So, are you ready for some wild, end-of-all-things stuff?! You are if you know Jesus as your Savior! You’re not ready yet if you haven’t trusted in Christ – but why not today? If you do, I guarantee you will be blessed (vs 3). Don’t put it off, the end is nea…….

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 238 - JUDE – Danger & Snatching

Ever bite into a jalapeño or worse yet, a habanero? Those things are so small but carry a powerful punch! I think of the same when I come to this letter from Jude. Only 25 verses but wowsa – what a punch! This was written by Jesus’ brother, Jude, around AD 65 to warn his readers of false teaching. In many ways, this letter parallels with 2 Peter. The first 16 verses have to do with the danger of false teaching and the remaining 9 verses are a call to stand for God’s truth. One of the problems was that these false teachers had “slipped in”. In other words, they may have looked & acted much like real believers for a while. But in time, their hearts came out: “They are godless men, who change the grace of our God into a license for immorality and deny Jesus Christ our only Sovereign and Lord.” You can't be a believer and continually living, day by day, a life of immorality. You also can’t be a believer, with the Holy Spirit of God living in you, and truly deny Christ! Those who do so will - like unbelievers in the desert & fallen angels & those in Sodom & Gomorrah - be punished (7). We are to therefore “build our faith….pray….keep in God’s love…be merciful…and snatch others from the fire and save them.” As false teaching comes we are to, with gentleness and respect, stand against it. Why? Because it builds our faith. Because it draws us closer to God. And because it keeps our friends (who believe) from going to hell. Jalapeños and Habaneros won’t even compare to the burn your friends and mine will receive for eternity if they don’t believe & receive! Ohhh Lord, please give them faith to believe and give me continual opportunities to share the Love of Jesus with them! SO WHAT?! *Are you a believer? If so, are you involved in immorality? Maybe you’re sensually and/or sexually involved with your boyfriend or girlfriend. Maybe you’ve been watching stuff on the internet you shouldn’t and you think no one knows. God knows - and He wants you to stop. These cravings can become addictions that lead into a downward spiral of sin. Get someone today - either your parents, a student pastor or a spiritual mentor – and ask them to hold you accountable. It will be the best thing for both you and for your testimony for Jesus! *When was the last time you begged God to save a friend or family member? I mean you cried out for them to God? And then, because you care for them, you shared Jesus with them? Shouldn’t this be one of our utmost concerns? Come on, let’s do it this week! Take the 48 hour challenge with me to share Jesus with someone in the next 2 days – I DOUBLE-DOG DARE US!!!

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 237 - 3 John: No Greater Joy!

Encouragement – there is no greater motivator of people! You and I love to receive it and love to see it! In this short letter, John dishes it out to Gaius! Next to 2 John, this is the next smallest letter in the Bible. Addressed to Gaius, it is about the walking in truth, the need for showing hospitality to traveling preachers & believers and to warn against church “dictators.” John first commends Gaius’ character: “It gave me great joy when some believers came and testified about your faithfulness to the truth, telling how you continue to walk in it. I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.” Imagine how you’d feel if next Sunday your pastor said these things about you!~ John was majorly encouraging Gaius! He goes on to commend his conduct: “Dear friend, you are faithful in what you are doing for the brothers and sisters, even though they are strangers to you. They have told the church about your love… It was for the sake of the Name that they went out, receiving no help from the pagans. We ought therefore to show hospitality to such people so that we may work together for the truth.” Gaius was being hospitable to fellow believers he didn’t even know. Then, there was Diotrephes. His conduct showed he was selfish (“loves to be first”), slanderous (”spreading malicious nonsense about us”) and controlling (”he even refuses to welcome other believers. He also stops those who want to do so and puts them out of the church.”) John’s advice: “Dear friend, do not imitate what is evil but what is good.” In other words – don’t be that guy! SO WHAT?! *There truly is no greater joy than to know my children are walking in the truth! Grades, sports and activities aside, to know that Drew & Jessica know Jesus and want to make Him known, that ROCKS MY WORLD! And for the honor to have spiritual “kids” all over the world who have been in our student ministry and are now pastors, youth workers, soldiers, missionaries, doctors, musicians, moms, etc… and still know Jesus and are making Him known – that too Rocks! You Go God! *Hospitality can be messy. Rooms get dirty, things get broken, laundry machines wear out and there is constant cooking & cleaning. But God wants us to open up the homes He gave us for Him! Over the years, the Freunds have had many items broken, numerous dents, carpet stains, holes in walls, etc… that tell stories of the students who made them – LOL! Now I’m not saying they were all enjoyable at the time - Jean has put up with and cleaned up A LOT! But how boring would it be after 10 years to say “wow, hasn’t this carpet held up well” because nobody’s been there! Forget that, lets wear out our homes because we’ve constantly opened them up to minister for Jesus! And by the way, if you do, those people will keep coming by later in life as well because they know you love and care for them and it may lead them to Jesus!~ So, be Hospitable, be messy for Jesus!

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 236 - 2 John - Hospitality Abuse

This second letter from John also deals with false teachers and the dangerous influence they can have on believers. It is the shortest writing in all of the Bible – only 13 verses. It is written to emphasize Christ, Truth & Love as well. It is addressed to “the chosen lady and her children” – most likely a good friend of John in ministry. John begins by emphasizing that we live lovingly and truthfully. To show love without truth is not helpful and to show truth without love is not kind. Balance is needed. Why? “…because many deceivers, who do not acknowledge Jesus Christ as coming in the flesh, have gone out into the world. Any such person is the deceiver and the antichrist.” You and I must be wise as serpents and harmless as doves or we can hinder the work of Jesus: “If anyone comes to you and does not bring this teaching, do not take them into your house or welcome them. Anyone who welcomes them shares in their wicked work.” This “chosen lady” may have, in trying to be loving, let false teachers stay with her resulting in damage to God’s work. SO WHAT?! *When you talk to people about Jesus, which is easier for you to share – Jesus’ love or Jesus’ truth? We must remember both, but if I’m gonna’ err on one it’s gonna’ be overemphasizing His LOVE! This letter warning could easily have been written to me. I do hope that when false teaching occurs that we will speak up. I’ve learned that to say nothing is to approve of what was just said! *The only way to detect false teaching is to know the Truth. How much time are you & I spending in God’s Truth, the Bible? If we are to combat a world of deception, we must be filling our hearts & minds with what God says. Are you? *How’s your hospitality? It means “lover of strangers.” Are you involved in loving strangers? That TRULY IS what God did with us!

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 235 - 1 John 5: THE Relationship That Brings Assurance

What is the strongest thing you possess? Brains? Braun? Personality? Your truck? (hehe…) John says in this chapter that it is our FAITH! John again stresses that love for God = carrying out His commandments – AND they’re not burdensome. I need to hear this because often I feel the heavy burden of ministry (Paul did too 1 Corinthians 11:28). But somehow it need not be my burden, but I am to “cast my cares on Him.” (1 Peter 5:7). Then John begins a bit of courtroom talk as he uses the word testimony & testify 8 times in 6 verses. God’s testimony (the Bible) is true and is verified by multiple witnesses. Verses 11-13 were some of the first verses I memorized as a new believer and they have stuck in my heart! “And this is the testimony: God has given us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. Whoever has the Son has life; whoever does not have the Son of God does not have life. I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life.” These verses ROCK! Basically if you’ve got Jesus, you’ve got life, if ya’ don’t, ya’ don’t! And for us who do have Jesus it gets even better: 1) We can KNOW we have eternal life! 2) We can receive anything from God that He wants us to have! “Jesus Christ – He is the true God and eternal life!” SO WHAT?! *How’s your faith? We don’t need big faith in a small god, but rather small faith in our BIG God! Never forget it! *What “burdens” are you carrying right now that you need to give to Jesus? Take some time right now and pray them over to Him – you’ll be glad you did, He’s big enough to handle them! *Are you 100% sure that if you died tonite that you’d go to heaven? I’m not talking 99%, I mean 100%. You can be! And it’s not based on how you feel or what kind of a day you had. It’s also not arrogance. It’s based in what God says in 5:13 and it’s TRUE! There is nothing that gives me more peace than to know my eternity is secure NO MATTER WHAT! Believers in Jesus totally have “Hakuna Matata” = No Worries! Ohhhhh yeah!!!!

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 234 - 1 John 4: Relationship With The World, God & Others – Part 2

Relationships require trust and vulnerability. We are always at risk whenever we put our trust in another, therefore we are to exercise wisdom in relationships as well. That is what John is getting at when he says “do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world.” False teachers attempt to lead truth seekers astray. Bad company can corrupt good morals and a companion of fools will suffer harm. So we are reminded that “the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.” God has made us overcomers because of Jesus in us – let’s never forget that we can CHOOSE to follow Jesus and not others! Relationships also require love (all beautiful things need tending) – and because we’re all sinners, they require the unconditional, sacrificial love of God: “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………that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.” And what should our response to that kind of love be? “Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.” We are to demonstrate love for others in the same way! John finishes this chapter with one of his constant themes – LOVE! He uses this term interchangeably with God Himself. “God is Love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in them.” And as this occurs, we will love others. “Anyone who loves God must also love their brother and sister.” SO WHAT?! *May sound like a broken record, but do you and I LOVE God and LOVE others? Can we “prove” it by the way we live? *How could you “lay your life down” for a Christian friend this next week?

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 233 - 1 John 3: Relationship With God & Others – Part 2

The intimate relationship a believer has with God is founded on love. “We love because He first loved us.” (1 John 4:19) This love God has for us is amazing and is described in the first two verses of this chapter. The best word is “lavished.” It means to expend in great amount without limit! WOW – that is totally what God did and does! And what is our response to God’s love? To intentionally live sinful lives? May it never be!!!! “All who have this hope in him purify themselves, just as he is pure. No one who lies in Him keeps on sinning.” Throughout the Bible, a true relationship with our Creator develops into a transformed life. Then, as when we are transformed by God’s love for us, we love our brothers & sisters (11-15). And it means a sacrificial love: “This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters.” We can’t say we love people if we see their needs, have the ability to help them, but don’t! “Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.” John finishes this chapter with words that sound familiar to the vine & the branches in John 15: “The one who keeps God’s commands lives in him, and he in them. And this is how we know that he lives in us: We know it by the Spirit he gave us.” SO WHAT?! *Today (& every day) is a great day to give thanks. Let’s take some time today and write down some of the ways God has “lavished” His love on us. Then take that list and spend some time in prayer thanking Him! *Jesus laid down His life for you and me. There is no way we could ever repay Him. But we can LIVE the rest of our days as a big THANK YOU LETTER back to Him. Let’s go for it! *Who do you know in need that you can you show your love to in actions and in giving?

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 232 - 1 John 2: Relationship with God, Others & the World

Sin is a horrible thing. It tears apart & destroys relationships. Yet, as terrible as sin is, how much greater is God’s grace! “But if anybody does sin, we have an advocate with the Father—Jesus Christ, the Righteous One. He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world.” Thank you Jesus! God – What shows that we have a relationship with God? “We know that we have come to know him if we keep his commands. Whoever says, “I know him,” but does not do what he commands is a liar, and the truth is not in that person.” Pretty clear huh!~ Others – What shows that we have a correct relationship with our fellow brothers & sisters in Christ? “Anyone who claims to be in the light but hates a brother or sister is still in the darkness.” Again, pretty clear huh!~ The World – What is our relationship to be with the world we live in – it’s system & attractiveness? “Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them.” One more time, pretty clear huh!~ John goes on to tell us that our desires for the things of this world - “the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life” – aren’t from God. The chapter ends with a warning against false teachers who disguise themselves as believers - what I call “make-believers.” These people look, talk & act like believers, but eventually they will deny Jesus, be liars, lead people away from God and themselves ditch God. Beware & Be Strong: “And now, dear children, continue in him, so that when he appears we may be confident and unashamed before him at his coming.” SO WHAT?! *Do you & I keep God’s commands? No – not fully. But would our lifestyle show we are living to please Him? If you aren’t sure, ask a close friend. But pray first, that we will accept their answer! *How are you actively showing love to your brothers & sisters in Christ? Do you pray for them, show compassion, serve them, share their burdens, sacrifice for them? It’s never too late to start! *Take a look at your checkbook, credit card statement and your weekly schedule. What do these things show that you love? Jesus told us “where your treasure is, there your heart will be also!” Is it time to reset priorities? *Finally, all over the Bible we get the message that we are not to play games with God. So let’s all do each other a favor and not be “make-believers.” Let’s be “all in” for Jesus!

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 231 - Intro & 1 John 1: Relationship with God & Others

Introduction: The book of 1 John is a book on Relationships: Relationship with God, Relationship with the World, and Relationship with Others. It was written by the apostle John in approximately 90 AD to believers living in Ephesus to address false teachings. It is very practical as well as very black & white. Some of the repeated words/phrases and how often they are used are: Love (35), Know (33), World (22), Jesus/Christ/Son (37), Dear children/friends (15), brothers (15), Life (14), Sin (14). John writes to reassure believers in their faith and to teach them to discern truth from error, both in doctrine and lifestyle by presenting a clear picture of Jesus Christ! 1 John 1: Relationship with God & Others Fellowship is an amazing thing. It’s not the same as socializing, but has the idea of sharing in the joys of Jesus with other believers. To do so, you must have Jesus in your life. In the first three verses, John explains how (through our senses) this “Word of Life” is revealed in Jesus (1), experienced by those who trust in Christ (2), is shared by those who know Christ (3) and brings joy (4). And what is this message? “God is light; in him there is no darkness at all.” Then he addresses three false claims that were causing problems: 1st Claim (6): “If we claim to have fellowship with him and yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live out the truth.” – Translate: “The way I live doesn’t affect my relationship with God.” Truth is, it DOES affect us. Remedy = “But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin.” 2nd Claim (8): “If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us.” Translate: “Deep down I’m not that bad.” Ummm…..Yes you are, and so am I! And if Jesus is the truth (Jn 14:6), then Jesus is not in us, and we are not believers! Remedy = “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” 3rd Claim (10): “If we claim we have not sinned, we make him out to be a liar and his word is not in us.” Translate: “If I’m not a sinner then God’s a liar – take your pick.” Ummmm…..I’m gonna’ go with God on this one! SO WHAT?! *How does knowing that Jesus is “The Word of Life” impact you? How does denying Christ impact our relationship with others? *To confess” our sins means to “agree” with how God sees them. How often do you spend time confessing your sin? Lord, help us to make confession as regular of a practice as we make sin! Help us to keep accounts with you short! *Does JOY describe your relationship with Jesus? If not, what does? How does our intimacy with Jesus (or lack of it) affect our relationship with fellow believers? Lord help us to get right with You regularly so we can be right with others!

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 230 - 2 Peter 3: The Lord’s Day & Our Response

The Word of God helps us think differently (1). And when we think differently, we then act differently. This is Peter’s second letter and he is reminding his readers of the Bible truths. He begins by saying, “in the last days scoffers will come……They will say, "Where is this 'coming' he promised?” Some day every prophecy of God will be fulfilled, but right now we are still waiting on the remaining ones and that can bring out the skeptics. It’s all about God’s mercy & grace. It’s not as though God has forgotten: “With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day.” We are confined to time, and often, to our generation – God is not. Why then has He waited almost 2000 years since Jesus died & rose again? Mercy & Grace! “The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” God is giving people time to turn to Him. One day that time will end and He WILL return and everything He said WILL happen. How are we to live in this “in between” time? “Holy and godly lives….spotless, blameless, at peace with Him…..be on guard…..grow in grace and Knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” Well, that ought to keep us busy for a while! SO WHAT?! *Ever pray to God and feel like you’re getting nothing? Yeah, me too. But the Bible reminds us that God hears our prayers and is answering each one of them. We just always like them to be yes & now, instead of no & wait! What requests are you regularly bringing to God that you haven’t seen answered yet? I believe God is saying “Bring It”. We just need to persevere and trust. I prayed for God to bring us to a new church and ministry to students and He did! I also prayed for over 25 years for God to save my dad. He passed away in 2005 and I won’t know ‘til heaven if that one happened! *When was the last time you thanked God for His mercy (not getting sentenced to eternal punishment for my sins) and His grace (getting eternal life in heaven instead because of my trust in Jesus)??? You and I are better off than we deserve and we must never forget it!

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 229 - 2 Peter 2: False Teachers

Deception – It began in the Garden of Eden when the serpent deceived Eve and continues to be around us today. Jesus told his disciples false teachers would come (Matt 24:11, Mark 13:22-23). Peter heard these words and was seeing this come true. People were saying things like Jesus was not God, that the resurrection wasn’t true, that Jesus’ work on the cross was insignificant and so on. Sound familiar? Peter warns against them and I notice three things: First, their teaching leads people away from Jesus: “Many will follow their shameful ways and will bring the way of truth into disrepute.” Second, their description is not “neutral” – they didn’t accidentally teach lies. They have an agenda and Peter doesn’t speak lightly of them: “unrighteous…bold and arrogant….brute beasts, creatures of instinct…eyes full of adultery…experts in greed, an accursed brood…” These are not descriptions of innocent people who accidentally teach wrong. Third, false teachers WILL be punished! “The Lord knows how to rescue godly men from trials and to hold the unrighteous for the day of judgment, while continuing their punishment…they will be paid back with harm for the harm they have done….blackest darkness is reserved for them.” SO WHAT?! *Have you been deceived lately regarding the truths in the Bible? Because the claims of Scripture go against our culture, if your faith hasn’t yet been challenged, it will be. So what is the best way to combat this? Know both WHAT you believe and WHY you believe it. Those who detect counterfeit currency don’t study counterfeit currency. They study hard the real thing so they can spot fakes! The same should be true of believers. We must read & study our Bible. The more you & I are in the Word of God, the more we will be able to spot teaching that is contrary! *We must not think that the teachings of Jehovah’s Witnesses, Mormons, Islam, Hinduism, etc… are harmless. These teachings go against the biblical teaching that Jesus is the ONLY way to be made right with God. They are deceiving many and they all have some kind of problem with the claims of Jesus. Yes, these people are sinners for whom Jesus died and we need to pray they will believe! But we must take a stand against what they teach. A while back, some JW’s came to my door. I again sat down with them and showed them in the Bible that Jesus is God. They continually denied it. I then asked them kindly not to go to any more of my neighbors, to which they said they had the freedom to do so. So, I grabbed my Bible and followed them around to each of my neighbors homes. After they would finish, I would kindly say to my neighbors (who all know me), “These people are telling you lies about Jesus. I would love to sit down anytime with you and explain what the Bible really says and answer any questions you have about Jesus and God.” Each of these neighbors was soooo appreciative for me to talk with them. Finally, the JW’s decided to leave, but they first asked me, “Why I was doing this?” I told them that if I knew someone was giving poison to my friends, I’d do what ever I could to stop them, wouldn’t you? Y’all are trying to poison my friends with your false teaching about Jesus. I was kind, I was gentle, but I was truthful and offered them a chance to believe in the True Jesus. God knows, and hey, maybe, someday, Barbara and her friends will believe!

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 228 - 2 Peter 1: Everything We Need

Introduction to 2 Peter: This letter was written by the apostle Peter (1) in approximately AD 67. Peter knew his life was coming to an end (13-14) so He wrote to warn about false teachers and to remind believers of the eternal, unchanging truth of the Gospel. 2 Peter 1: Everything We Need “Consumer” is a good word for us people types. Seems like we are always wanting something: clothes, a new phone, the latest computer, new shoes, bigger vacations, more money, nicer truck, yadda, yadda, yadda….. I need to hear verse 3: “His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness.” These are amazing words we all need to hear! Promises from God like this exist so that “through them we may participate in the divine nature and escape the corruption in the world caused by evil desires.” Cool God stuff! Next Peter lines out what faith looks like: learning to know God better, developing perseverance, doing God’s will and loving others. These actions require work and they overlap each other. We must practice them because “they will keep us from being ineffective and unproductive in our knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Only then we can get a “way to go” from God on the day we arrive in heaven! Finally, Peter was an eyewitness of Jesus, specifically the transfiguration (17-18). He didn’t make up this stuff about Jesus. As a matter of fact, none of the writers of the Bible did: “Above all, you must understand that no prophecy of Scripture came about by the prophet's own interpretation. For prophecy never had its origin in the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.” SO WHAT?! *What is it you are “wanting” these days? The latest phone so you can keep up with your friends? More money? Bigger muscles? Cooler wheels? Whatever it is, we need to never forget that this earth is just our temporary living place. Everything we need to live this life for Jesus He has already given us. We just need to live it. *Are you having an impact on your friends for Jesus or are they impacting you towards worldliness? I learned early in my Christian life, that if I don’t see myself as a missionary, it won’t be long before I’m the mission field! How about you? In what tangible ways are you being an ambassador? Really, who wants to live an ineffective and unproductive life!?~! Just sayin’… *This chapter teaches us that the Bible was written by GOD. Yes, He used people, but HE is the author and He gave them what to write. This is why we call it “God’s Word.” Think about this the next time we get busy and blow off reading it. When we do that, we put off the most impactful and powerful words we could ever receive for the day. Ouch. Lets read!

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 227 - 1 Peter 5: Ten Commands

Ok, so this is a cool chapter in which I find 10 commands. The first four commands are to leaders, the fifth to youth and the rest to everyone. Paul begins with an appeal and by putting himself on the same level as the other leaders in the church. Real leaders are those who serve alongside us not over us and real leaders keep their priorities in check! 1. BE Shepherds: (2a) The first & foremost responsibility of a pastor/shepherd is to care for his flock. This is an AWESOME responsibility! Too often today, the role of pastor is replaced by religious entrepreneurs with business plans. GOD wants shepherds! 2. BE Willing: (2b) God calls those who WANT to shepherd, not people who feel they “have” to. Don’t sign up for stuff at church just because no one else is. Sign up because you WANT to and God will bless you! 3. BE Eager to Serve: (2c) Ok, if you’re in ministry for the money, you’re an idiot! I’m a pastor (yes, youth pastors are REAL pastors) because I can’t do anything else! I don’t mean I’m unskilled to do anything else, what I mean is I can’t because deep down I know God wants me pastoring students and I’d be miserable doing anything else because it would be outside God’s will for me! 4. BE Examples: (3) No one likes to serve a boss who gives them all the cruddy jobs. Jesus never asked His disciples to do anything He had not already done or was about to do with them. The same should be true of shepherds/pastors. We are to serve alongside as examples. 5. BE Submissive: (5a) Pride keeps young people from listening to older and older from trying to understand the young. Period. 6. BE Humble: (5b-6) God’s mighty hand is big enough to trust our lives with! 7. BE Worry-Free: (7) We are to give God all our anxiety because we are His personal concern (Phillips translation). Then we can truly have “hakunna matatta”!~ 8. BE Self-Controlled: (8) God’s people are to exercise both restraint and discipline. “For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. It teaches us to say "No" to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age…” – Titus 2:11-12 9. BE Alert: (8) Throughout the Bible we are continually reminded to be ready, not caught off guard and to stand firm. The enemy Satan is constantly trying to catch us! 10. BE Intimate: (14) Ok, this doesn’t necessarily mean we’re to go around kissing everyone! It was a cultural sign of affection, intimacy & love for another. The Bible says unbelievers will know we are Christians by our LOVE for one another. This Love is what ought to attract people to Jesus! SO WHAT?! *As a pastor/shepherd, caring for students & families at Grace Chapel in Castle Rock is an enormous responsibility that I do not take lightly. It’s also one I need help doing. As a result, every student in our ministry is prayed for daily and is shepherded as well. I’m not the parent, but I will have to give an account to God some day for the students He put under my care, and I want to do that well. How about you? Who are you in charge of caring for? *I’m cool with sign up lists – every church has them. But you won’t get a guilt trip from me if you don’t sign up. Those who WANT to serve are so much more pleasant to work with. Maybe, if people don’t sign up for something, could it be that God is saying not to do it?!~! Novel thought huh?!~! *Finally, vs 7 was one of the first verses I memorized as a new believer. It has been such a comfort to know I can release all my “crud” to God and trust Him with it. I believe it has saved me many an ulcer! I encourage you to do the same right now! We ARE God’s personal concern!

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 226 - 1 Peter 4: Living & Suffering

Jesus said in John 16:33, “In this world you will have trouble.” Trials, persecution & suffering will always be a part of our lives. It’s HOW we face them that makes the difference. In the first 6 verses, Peter describes how a radically transformed life will impact others. Having a Christ-like attitude, not living for ourselves but instead living for God will not only baffle them (“they think it strange”) but also cause them to “heap abuse on you.” Yeah – he’s saying these things are to be expected, but take heart, Jesus has overcome the world! In the midst of tough times, we are to “be clear minded and self-controlled so that we can pray, love each other deeply, offer hospitality to one another without grumbling and use whatever gift we have received to serve others…” Why? “So that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ.” Nothing is better, when we are suffering, than to know others are in it with us! Finally, Peter once again reminds us that suffering should not surprise us. And here’s the attitude we are to have “rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed, praise God that you bear His name…… So then, those who suffer according to God's will should commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good.” SO WHAT?! *What are you facing right now that is just plain not fun? How are you handling it? Why not take some time right now and ask God to help you put into practice the attitudes listed in this chapter?! *Ever feel like you’re doing all the right things but suffering even more? The believers Peter was writing to of his day must have felt the same way because he told them to “commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good.” In spite of the temporary, earthly results, be encouraged, you’re doing the right thing! *Do you feel alone in your suffering? That’s no fun! Hey, the Castle Rock Freund’s have seen a lot of changes lately and have felt pretty alone at times. Maybe this is how you’re feeling. Let me encourage you not to slouch into “loneliness pity” but instead to seek out a close friend or two who will pray with you through these times. You will be blessed if you do!

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 225 - 1 Peter 3: Dedication, Preparation, Conversation, Cooperation

With a rhyming title like this, I should be Baptist! Anyway, Peter continues describing submission and here what it should look like between husbands & wives. I find it interesting that he equates submission with inner beauty. In a world that focuses on the external, Peter explains to women that even an unbelieving husband can get saved “when they see the purity and reverence of your lives.” Not only that, but a woman’s beauty “should not come from outward adornment, such as braided hair and the wearing of gold jewelry and fine clothes. Instead, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God's sight.” This is good stuff ladies. Guys – live with your wife in an understanding way. Yes, that means things like listening more, telling her regularly you love her, maybe even shopping with her! The rest of the chapter returns back to Peter’s theme of suffering. I believe the key is found in four phrases: Dedication: We are to “in our hearts set apart Christ as Lord.” Our commitment to Jesus is to be the foundation for suffering. Preparation: We are also to “Always be prepared…” The Christian life requires discipline! Conversation: “…to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.” As we prepare, we begin to know what we believe and why we believe it so we can share that good news with others: “For Christ died for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God.” Cooperation: “But do so with gentleness and respect…” You and I can’t MAKE anyone believe in Jesus, the Holy Spirit must draw them. Trust me, if we could, I would! But what we can do is BE Jesus to peeps and invite them into a loving, caring community of Jesus-centeredness! So What?!~ *Are you married? If so, in what way can you this week be more understanding of your spouse? If you’re not married yet, make this a good time of preparation, learning to be understanding! *What gets you through tough times? I can honestly say for me it’s JESUS! I wasn’t doing very well before I knew Him! Now it can be Jesus in another person, or Jesus in the Word of God or Jesus in actions – but it’s still Jesus! What are you going through right now that you need Jesus to help you through? He can AND HE WANTS TO HELP! Call on Him today! *Are you prepared to tell someone how they can know Jesus? Can you explain the points of the Gospel? If not, memorize them today! Here is a good resource: http://www.dare2share.org/gospeljourney/

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 224 - 1 Peter 2: Therefore, Living Legos, Royalty & Submission

I love building things. And for me, growing up it was Lincoln Logs. Brown notched out logs, red roof beams & green slats all together to form buildings. Then came Legos – colorful, multi-shaped pieces which transformed every 8 year old boy into a building machine! Yeah…..even though they were “after my time” as a kid, I still keep a box in my office to help with creativity! In this chapter, Jesus is referred to as the “Prime Lego” of a spiritual building in which all of us are a part. Before we get there though, we’re reminded to put into practice chapter 1. 1-3: “Therefore” – because God has given believers new birth into a living hope, with an incredible inheritance, we are to live differently. We are to “rid” ourselves of old ways of living and instead “crave” the things of God! 4-8: Living Legos: The cornerstone was an important stone that held two rows of stones together in a corner. Once it was in place, the rest of the building was determined. The capstone is the most important part of the building. It completes, strengthens and unifies the walls. Without it, the walls would be weak. Jesus is THE Living Stone (Lego). Unbelievers are the builders. Believers are living stones as well – chosen, precious and at times, rejected. 9-10: These verses say believers are Royalty! How awesome to be the King’s kid!~ And with a purpose, “that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.” 11-12: Our loyalty to God is seen in our actions, how we live this life God has given us. By doing so, it silences the critics and points people to God. 13-21: Submission is one of life’s paradoxes. The sin nature in all of us battles to do what we want, yet it is in submission that we can truly live! Here, Peter says that as we submit to authorities and suffer, we are commended by God! 22-25: There is no greater example of submission & suffering that that of our Lord! To be totally innocent and say nothing requires incredible restraint and trust in God – all of which Jesus demonstrated. SO WHAT?! *This passage teaches us that we are part of spiritual building. Where do you see yourself: The supporting beams? A wall? The roof? How is your role in the body helping “hold things together”? *We also read that God has “called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.” In what dark rooms of your life has God “turned on a light”? What will you do about it? *Of all the authorities in your life, which ones do you have the hardest time submitting to? Will you ask God for humility & strength to obey? *Finally, take out that box of Legos & build something today with this passage in mind! A cheerful heart is good medicine!