Friday, August 31, 2012

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 175 - Philippians Intro & Chapter 1: Gracias & Testimonial…

Introduction to Philippians: This is one of three of Paul’s letters that he wrote from prison (also Ephesians, Colossians & Philemon). That is especially significant when you consider that the theme of this letter is JOY! Only when we have God’s Holy Spirit and God’s perspective on things can we experience joy in all circumstances. Then church at Philippi was started by Paul on his second missionary journey and is the most personal letter that he wrote to a church. It includes one of the most important passages in the New Testament on the “kenosis” of Christ = His self-emptying or self-humiliating (2:5-8). And this letter contains a lot of familiar verses that have been memorized by many over the years. Philippians 1: Gracias & Testimonial… Yes, I like Mexico and have friends there, so I’m still using the little Spanish I know! Anyway, Paul kicks off this letter, like many of his letters, by giving thanks. He is extremely grateful for their “partnership in the gospel from the first day until now…” The believers in Philippi had helped Paul financially at least twice (4:16) and Paul saw that as sharing in the work of Christ! And with that he gives these words of encouragement: “…he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” Paul then gives an amazing personal testimony of how being in prison is advancing the work of Christ: “Now I want you to know, brothers, that what has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel. As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ. Because of my chains, most of the brothers in the Lord have been encouraged to speak the word of God more courageously and fearlessly.” Paul saw in his imprisonment not punishment but possibility! And as a result, unbelievers believed and believers shared their faith – COOL GOD STUFF! Paul attitude was amazing too! He didn’t care what motives people had for sharing Christ – he was just grateful they were! He was also confident that God would give him courage to be unashamed. And he didn’t matter to him if it cost him his life – “For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.” So, he concludes with “conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ.” In other words, whatever our circumstances, live for Christ! Even if – or better yet – even when it means suffering. And oh yeah, verse 29 probably does not top the list of our memorized verses but it is true regardless! SO WHAT?! *What circumstances are burdening you and overwhelming you right now? Let’s not allow the enemy to rob us of the joy we have knowing that Jesus is with us to help us face whatever we face! Pray and move forward in HIS strength! *Fill in the blank: For me, to live is__________.... What did you put? Success? Football? Being rich? School? (ok, probably not) Take a look at where in your heart you spend your hours & dollars - that is a good indicator!

Thursday, August 30, 2012

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 174 - Ephesians 6: Submission & The Spiritual Battle

“Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. "Honor your father and mother"—which is the first commandment with a promise— "that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth." Ok, so how many of your parents have made you memorize these verses? Yeah well, Drew & Jessica have had to learn them too! The promise if you do obey is both quality life (“go well”) and quantity life (“long life”). And yes students, dad has a big responsibility here as well: “Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.” As a dad, this is a great reminder. But students, even if you have a dad who overbearingly upsets you, that doesn’t not make you exempt from the command to obey (darn). Paul then turns to slave & masters. Now I know this may not be as relevant now, but if you consider your employers as masters, it certainly is relevant. We are to work hard to please both them & God! Paul concludes by preparing his readers for the spiritual battle! He reminds us of a number of things: - That our strength is in the LORD – not ourselves (10). - That our BATTLE is not with people but with Satan and his demons (11-12). - That we must PUT ON the full armor of God for protection (13) - That we must STAND FIRM with truth & what is right (14) - That our FEET should be out sharing the good news (15) - That our FAITH acts like a shield (16) and our SALVATION protects our renewed mind (17). - That our weapon is the WORD of GOD (17). I’ve always been told that the Word of God is our only offensive weapon, but I believe there is another: PRAYER! It’s mentioned 5 times in 18-20: Pray, Pray, Pray!!! Prayer and the Word of God are both offensive weapons we are to familiar with if we are going to fight strong in the Lord! SO WHAT?! *Why not take some time today and honor your parents. Maybe do something without being asked (ok, they may have a heart attack), or let them know how much you appreciate them or pray for them. Here’s a prayer thought: For the most part, we will grow up to be much like our parents – good or bad! Since this is highly likely, then we need to pray that our parents be like Jesus so we will be too! Let’s pray it

Wednesday, August 29, 2012

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 173 - Ephesians 5: Imitators or Imitation?

What do Sweet & Low, Little Debbie Swiss Cakes & Mellow Yellow all have in common? They’re fakes! Imitation! They’re not sugar, they’re not Ho Ho’s and they’re certainly not Mountain Dew! Paul begins with “Be imitators of God………..and live a life of love…” The word for imitators is mimos – it’s where we get our English word “mimic” and in this context it means to follow, to be like. Imitation makes external changes & tries to look like the real deal, Imitators, on the other hand, have internal changes that occur because of the Holy Spirit’s presence in their lives! Paul says at least four things about this. First, people who aren’t changed internally by God will not make it to heaven (5-7). Second, light = good, darkness = bad! (8-14) Because believers have been called out of darkness into light (1 Peter 2:9), we should live like it. Period. Third, imitating God keeps us from wasting our lives (15-17). We are to “make the most of every opportunity because the days are evil.” In other words, our time will soon be up on this planet, don’t let wine control you but the Holy Spirit! Finally, Paul gives evidences of a Spirit-controlled & changed life (18-21). Fellowship, worship, thankfulness and submission are all signs of being Spirit-controlled! Then Paul concludes with what mutual submission looks like: wives to husbands, husbands to Lord, children to parents (ch 6), slaves to masters (ch 6). SO WHAT?! *When, where and in what area is it most difficult for you (& I) to be an imitator of God? Identify it and then ask God’s Holy Spirit to change us in these areas! *Since the time when you, by faith, believed & received Jesus, what areas of your life have you seen change? Take a moment and thank God for those changes! Then be bold and ask Him to show you other areas where He desires change! *How ya’ doing with submission? Parent? Teachers? Speed Limit signs? Submission says a lot about our character.

Tuesday, August 28, 2012

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 172 - Ephesians 4: _nity – Top Priority

You guessed it – it’s not unity without “U”! It’s transition time. The first 3 chapters lay down some truths and beginning in chapter 4 Paul says, “I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received.” The truths of God have always been meant to be lived out, to be applied. Paul had already told the Corinthians that “Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up” and we see that same truth being taught here in regards to how we treat one another. I see four principles from the first 16 verses: 1) Unity depends on love that comes from character. We are to be “completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.” 2) Unity begins with unity with God. Seven times in 3-6 the word “one” is used in relation to the Lord. 3) Unity brings diversity of gifts – just “as Christ apportioned it.” Apostles, Prophets, Evangelists, Pastors, Teachers – all differ, but one purpose: “to prepare God's people for works of service…” 4) Unity demands maturity in our growth. If we are gonna’ have the same goals as believers, we need to understand Bible truths more & more. Paul finishes the chapter with a contrast of the old life & new life. The old life involved falsehood, deceitful desires, anger, stealing, unwholesome talk, etc… But “In Christ” we are to speak truthfully, not deceive or steal, etc… Much of this happens by watching what we say: “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.” Don’t be angry, bitter, etc… with others, that saddens God. Instead, “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” SO WHAT?! *Do you get along with fellow believers? Or do you resent them? Hey, let’s remember, we’re on the same team – the body of Christ – and the enemy would love to get us at each other and keep our focus off Jesus! Let’s ask forgiveness for acting selfish in the body and that God would give us a spirit of love for each other. *How are you involved in “works of service that God has for you? In what ways are you helping prepare others to serve God? Both are necessary and commanded. Lord help us be passionate about the things YOU are passionate about! *A lot of conflict could be avoided if we would just obey verses 29 & 32! My mom used to always say to me, “If you can’t say anything nice, don’t say anything at all.” Ha – she was paraphrasing verse 29! I believe that the more we do this, the more unified we will be! *So how do we change? Well, according to vs 22, it’s a killer! Die to the old ways, BUT be resurrected to new living – and it starts in our minds!!!

Monday, August 27, 2012

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 171 - Ephesians 3: “CHRCH”

“For this reason…” = therefore = because of the Gospel, I’m in prison for Christ’s sake! Paul has no problem as to the reason why he is in prison. He then explains three “M’s”: The MYSTERY (2-6) – “is that through the gospel the Gentiles are heirs together with Israel, members together of one body, and sharers together in the promise in Christ Jesus.” God’s grace now extends to ALL who believe & receive! Heirs, members, sharers – great stuff! The MINISTRY (7-13) – We are servants and ambassadors, representing our Lord and we’ve been given the great privilege of helping people get right with God! Wow - more great stuff! The MESSAGE (10) – How does God desire to accomplish this ministry? Through the CHURCH – all believers, you and me! We are the means to accomplish God’s desire that “none should perish and all come to repentance” – 2 Peter 3:9. So…..are you ready for this one…… bottom line…….It’s not Church without “U”! The title is correct, not misspelled…..he, he…. Ok – maybe I’m stretching it, but if you & I are not involved in God’s good work, we are disobedient to His call on our lives! People need to Know Jesus and Make Him Known! Paul finishes with incredible prayer for the Ephesian believers. God is totally “able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us…” SO WHAT?! *When was the last time you shared the “mystery” – the good news of Jesus with someone? Last week? Last month? Last year? Ask God for an opportunity to share Christ today and then the boldness to do it. Then let me know how it went – I’d love to hear from you! *In what ways are you allowing God to “…strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being…” Spending time in the Bible? Prayer? Witnessing? Serving?

Sunday, August 26, 2012

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 170 - Ephesians 2: Old Life vs. New Life

This chapter contrasts a person’s life BEFORE they by grace thru faith believe in Christ, with a person’s life AFTER believing in Christ. It serves as a great reminder because I’m a good forgetter! “As for you, you were dead…” Ok, so I’m pretty sure this is not like Princess Bride’s “He’s only mostly dead.” The Bible teaches us that before we knew Jesus as Savior, our ability to change our situation was zip, zero, ziltch, nadda – dead people can’t don anything! 100% of my salvation is from God! So how do we relate to the world, the devil and the flesh? THE WORLD: “…in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world…” Before Christ, we had no choice but to follow the value system of this world: looking out for #1, God as the center of the universe is a lie (Romans 1:25), etc… IN Christ, our new relationship with the world involves things like: Being in the world but not of it, realizing we don’t belong here, we’re foreigners, God IS the center of everything, etc… THE DEVIL: “…you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient.” Before Christ we had no choice but to follow temptation. Now, IN Christ, Satan has no authority in our lives. His deceptions to procrastinate the work of the Lord or compromise our beliefs don’t need to be followed! THE FLESH: “All of us also lived………gratifying the cravings of our sinful nature and following its desires and thoughts.” Lust ruled before Christ, but IN Christ we’ve been given His Holy Spirit living in us to say NO to ungodliness (Titus 2:11-14). It is a battle, I know, but one that God wants us to fight! “But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ…” – Whoohoo! Grace, Grace, Grace – it’s all by Grace – If we had something to do with it, we’d brag! And all for the purpose “to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” Paul finishes saying our true citizenship is now in heaven with God. We were far from Him, (separated), “objects of wrath” and have now been brought near (reconciled) through “the blood of Christ!” SO WHAT? *Of the three – the world, the devil, the flesh – which one do you battle most with? *How ya’ doing? Are you engaged (Titus 2:11-14) or are you a POW? Remember – God has already won the battle, so we are not fighting for victory but from victory! *Does hearing that we have ZIP to do with our salvation bother you? It doesn’t need to if we truly realize that we were dead and that dead people can’t do anything! Our acceptance before God is never based on our performance - Whew! *How are you involved in the good works God has for you? You have great significance as a member of the body of Christ. If you’re not serving in your church in some way, purpose to get involved this week. If you don’t know how, maybe ask your parents, pastors, mentors, etc…

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 169 - Ephesians 1: The Doctrinal “Hall of Fame”

Introduction: WHO AM I? If we’re honest, most of us struggle with identity issues – significance, security. Parents, peers, school, culture and teachers are just some of the mirrors we look into in our search for who we are. For many, this is painful. There’s a song that came out when I was in high school called “At Seventeen” that most of you won’t know but the words still cut as Janice Ian shares her painful search for identity. If you are a believer and you struggle with these things, then this letter is for you! The book of Ephesians describes a believer’s position IN CHRIST (Chapters 1-3) and then the results (or application) of that position (Chapters 4-6). Ephesians 1: The Doctrinal “Hall of Fame” The first 14 verses in Ephesians are AMAZING! You could do a good 7-10 studies on these verses but dang, I have only one! So here goes: “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ.” Everything we need to live a life for God, to be restored to fellowship with God and with others has been given us IN CHRIST (this phrase used 10 times in first 13 verses)! The moment we believe, we receive! Then Paul goes on to explain those spiritual blessings: ELECTION (4-5a, 11-12) – This is a reality, a fact. HE took the initiative. There was nothing about us and He chose us in Him. For what purpose? To be “holy & blameless in His sight.” and “for the praise of his glory.” ADOPTION (5-6) – Again, there was nothing about us, God did not need you or me, but He wanted to make us His kids (“in accordance with His pleasure and will”) and so He did. REDEMPTION (7a) – This is a deliverance, a ransom paid by a price. In other words, God bought us back. How? And what was the price? “…through his blood…” Jesus died to pay the penalty for your sins and mine! FORGIVENESS (7-10) – of our sins! And the qualifier? “in accordance with the riches of God's grace…” Being chose, adopted, redeemed & forgiven has nothing to do with our performance but is all by GRACE!~ SALVATION (13a) – How is a person saved? “…you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation. Having believed…” When you hear the Word of God and by faith you believe, then you receive! MARKED/SEALED (13b-14) – This is a guarantee, a pledge, a down payment. The word used speaks of an engagement ring. When I asked Jean to marry me, I gave her an engagement ring. It wasn’t the full wedding band, but a promise, a deposit of what was yet to come. When we believe & receive, God deposits His Holy Spirit in us as a promise that He will finish what He started. And someday in heaven we will be perfected! INHERITANCE (14) – All we are and will enjoy as children of the King! Being the King’s kid has benefits that are out of this world. The Father elects & adopts, the Son redeems, forgives, saves & gives an inheritance and the Holy Spirit is our seal – the Trinity at work! WOWSA! This is great stuff! After all this it should cause us to pray & give thanks and that is exactly what Paul concludes the chapter doing – that we would “know Him better.” Another reason why Knowing Jesus is the first part of my life goal of “Knowing Jesus and Making Him Known.” SO WHAT?! *Let’s take some time today and thank God for all the spiritual blessings we have in Christ. Go ahead, list them out – I Double Dog Dare Ya’! *How do you view yourself, your identity? Often we can compare ourselves with others. And certainly our culture seeks the best looking, smartest, most talented, etc…. But I am so glad that my acceptance before God is NOT based on my performance! IN CHRIST I have been given a new IDENTITY – I am accepted by God and adopted into His family because of faith in Jesus Christ! I’m royalty! I’m the King’s kid! So are ALL who trust in Him alone to be saved from their sins! Now that beats any “self-esteem” talk you or I could ever receive!

Wednesday, August 22, 2012

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 168 - Galatians 6: Doing Good & Boasting

Up to this point, Paul has been pretty blunt with the Galatians. They were adding to grace which actually changes grace to works and THAT should anger us all. Here in chapter 6 we see Paul’s shepherding heart. He reminds us that we were never created to live independently (sorry America) but Dependently. We are to carry each other’s burdens, to share & support those who teach us the Word of God, to do good to all people, especially fellow believers, to not grow weary, etc…. All these things imply others. Paul then states that, “ Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.” We’ve had gardens and love them! But when we plant our garden, it would have certainly been a surprise if corn came up where we planted green beans. You reap (green beans) what you sow (green beans). The same is true in other areas. Talk bad about your friends and you’ll lose them. Live your life for your self and you’ll lose it too (Luke 9:24a). But live for Jesus and wow what you’ll reap! (Luke 9:24b) Paul’s final exhortation has to do with – you guessed it – circumcision. Once more Paul reminds them that it’s not about being outwardly conformed but about being inwardly transformed! And ya’ wanna’ boast? Boast in the cross of the Lord Jesus Christ! Live this way, peace & mercy will follow you! SO WHAT?! *When was the last time you reached out to a friend who had gotten themselves into a bind due to bad choices? It’s easy to think “you deserve it”, but that is of little help to them. Is there someone you can reach out to today, encourage and bear a burden with? Go for it! *It’s easy to receive good Bible teaching and take our spiritual leaders for granted. Paul says we are to take care of their material needs (vs 6, 1 Cor 9:7-12). I am grateful for all our Pastor does: peaching the Word, shepherding the flock, praying, discipling, evangelizing, etc… If you know your pastor has a material need, why not meet it today, and in doing so please the Lord as well as encourage your pastor! *What are you sowing? What am I sowing? Let’s be sowing seeds of the Gospel wherever we go – that’s the stuff we want to reap! *Where do you spend more time – in front of the mirror in your room (external conformity) or before the mirror of scripture (internal transformation)? It’s an indicator of what matters more to us! PS – Galatians 6:11 (he, he…)

Tuesday, August 21, 2012

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 167 - Galatians 5: Freedom & Fruit

In this chapter, Paul continues to address wrong thinking, adding to the Gospel of grace! He begins by stating the obvious: If you have to be circumcised, then “Christ will be of no value to you at all.” In other words, if acceptance before God is based on something WE do then Jesus died in vain. Truth is, we are free from the law of works and our acceptance is based on what Jesus did! “The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love.” When Paul writes, “You were running a good race. Who cut in on you and kept you from obeying the truth?” – he is reminding them of the Gospel he preached and they believed in, but someone was turning them away from – and it wasn’t God! And truth mixed with the least bit of lie is still a lie! The next verse cracks me up and is a bit PG-13…..”As for those agitators, I wish they would go the whole way and emasculate themselves!” Translate – Hey, if circumcision is so pleasing to God, then why not just whack it all off and really please God?!” Yikes! Moving on…. Paul’s thrust is that we are to act out of love not law. Pau then reminds them that as believers, they have God’s Holy Spirit living in them and they should follow His guiding and not what where their sinful nature leads them because they battle each other. He then goes on to list the fruit of the sinful nature and the fruit of the spirit and a call to not follow our sinful nature but God’s Spirit. SO WHAT?! *When do you feel most accepted by God? When you are consistently reading your Bible and praying? When you are at church each week? When you help another believer out? Yadda, yadda, yadda…. As good as all those things are, we must always remember that our acceptance before God is never based on our performance (whew)! It is based on Jesus’ performance in our place and God accepted Him fully! *Ever allowed other convince you of things not in scripture? Yeah, me too. The more you and I are in our Bible consistently, the more we will be able to spot error. Let’s live 2 Timothy 2:15! *Finally, verse 24 reads, “Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires.” I believe it, but in my daily life I don’t always experience it! Lord please help me seek You and Your leading as I deal with my sinful desires!

Monday, August 20, 2012

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 166 - Galatians 4: Contrasting of Grace & Law, Faith & Works

I believe today’s reading can be summed up by verse 9 which reads, “But now that you know God—or rather are known by God—how is it that you are turning back to those weak and miserable principles?” Paul again addresses the believers in Galatia because they were mixing the gospel with works of the law. He begins by using the illustration of a child coming of age. He contrasts a believer’s life before knowing Jesus (children & servants), with their life after knowing Jesus (adults & sons). When we didn’t know Jesus, we were slaves to the “basic principles of this world” = rules of men! BUT, “when the time had fully come” – in God’s perfect timing He sent JESUS to pay for our sins – so we are no longer slaves but sons & heirs! Because of this, Paul is like, “hello – why are you going back to man’s rules instead of God’s grace?” – vs. 9. He was afraid he was wasting his time on them – and he had poured a lot of time into them! They knew it, and though they had lost their joy, at one time they would have given Paul one of their eyes had he needed it! Because of this deep relationship, Paul shot straight with them and risked becoming their enemy. He was adamant that the Jewish believers never really wanted Gentiles to be able to have Jesus and Paul was perplexed that the Galatians couldn’t see through this. He concludes his argument with an allegory of the two sons – Ishmael & Isaac. Isaac being the son of promise, and Ishmael not. Just like Isaac inherited the promised given to his father, believers receive God’s redemptive promises because we are spiritual heirs. SO WHAT?! *What are you doing today to “get in” better with God? There is NOTHING we could ever do to “get in” better since God has already by grace thru faith given us everything as heirs! What a relief! *Some day the “time will fully come” when Jesus returns. None of us know when that day will be but we do know it’s coming. Let’s be prepared by living our lives as thank you letters back to Jesus each day!

Friday, August 17, 2012

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 165 -Galatians 3: Hey - The Old Testament Teaches Grace!

Ok…… so you read the first few verses and you are reminded that Paul wasn’t trying to please people! This first part reminds me of a scene from “Back to the Future” where Biff is knocking on McFly’s head only it’s Paul to the Galatian believers who are adding works to faith: “Hello, Galatians, is anybody home?! You idiots are being tricked! You didn’t work for your salvation in the first place so why do you think you need to now”?! Then he describes how God, in Genesis 12:3, said ALL nations, who by faith believe, would be blessed thru Abraham! That the reason Jesus came was to redeem us from the law (works) so that His grace might come to all. And then he nails a really great point: Abraham was declared righteous by God 430 years BEFORE the law was given, so it couldn’t have been the law that made him right – it was grace thru faith. But lest you toss the law, Paul also says hey, with out it we could not grasp grace (vs 24)! Paul also spoke of this same thing in Romans 3:20, “Therefore no one will be declared righteous in His sight by observing the law.” SO WHAT?! *Ever get tired of the “do better/try harder routine to be a better Christian? The Christian life is more about being than doing. Read verse 3 again and ask God’s Holy Spirit in you to help you live the life HE wants you to live! It can happen! *Lord, please help us to grasp the concept of grace & faith and then let it shine in our lives!

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 164 - Galatians 2: Gospel is By Grace thru Faith plus Nothing!

In this chapter, Paul continues to emphasize that the good news of Jesus is received by grace thru faith. This was the very issue that was settled in Acts 15 at the Jerusalem Council. He reminds them Titus, who was a Greek, was not circumcised, proving they weren’t gonna’ give in to this false teaching. He also explains that the apostles agreed with Paul that He was to go to the Gentiles with this message of grace. Paul then gives a final example of how Peter wrongly gave into this false teaching. His response? “I apposed him to his face because he was clearly in the wrong.” Peter was “not acting in line with the truth of the Gospel” and Paul called him on it! The closing verses speak of “justification.” I tell people think of “Just-if-I’d never sinned.” Literally the word has to do with a legal declaration. It’s a choice, by God, to declare us righteous because of Jesus’ blood NOT because of anything we have done or could do! For “if righteousness could be gained through the law, Christ died for nothing!” Paul then concludes with a verse that many of us have memorized to remind us who we are: “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.” SO WHAT?! *What are some ways we add to the free, gracious good news of Jesus? How about things like “If I read my Bible more God will like me more”, or “If I give some money to help people in Haiti”, or “if I go to church more often”, or…… you fill in the blank. Whenever we do or even think things like this we add to the message of God’s grace. Let’s not do this but instead let’s daily thanks God for His amazing grace and out of gratefulness live a thank you letter back to Him! *The last time you were corrected for doing something wrong, how did you respond? It doesn’t tell us in this passage what Peter’s reaction was, but if you read Peter’s letters (which we will later) you’ll see he learned humility and God used him greatly. May we do the same!~. *Galatians 2:20 – Do you believe it? Lord, help us to not only believe it but to live it!

Wednesday, August 15, 2012

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 163 -Galatians 1: Introduction & the Gospel

Jewish believers (Judaizers) were trying to convince the Galatian believers that they needed to follow the law (i.e. be circumcised) to be sanctified. These Judaizers had misled the Galatians into believing that Paul’s doctrine of justification through faith was false. They thought that Paul’s motivation for teaching such a doctrine was his desire to please men, and that he received his revelation from men. To address this situation, Paul writes the Galatians to exhort them to return to the sound and true doctrine that he, a true apostle, had taught them. Paul wrote this letter from Antioch about AD 48ish. Paul spends most of the first two chapters defending both the message and the messenger. so he begins with, ”Paul, an apostle—sent not from men nor by man, but by Jesus Christ and God the Father, who raised him from the dead…” He wants them to know that the Gospel he had preached to them was straight from God! In most of Paul’s letters, after introducing himself, he usually gives thanks for something – not so in Galatians. He immediately rebukes them for ditching what they’ve been taught. They had received the Gospel by grace but the Jewish believers were adding to it by saying things like you had to be circumcised (works). These people were bringing confusion and Paul says “to hell with them!” Ok, ok…..our Bible doesn’t read those exact words but the word for eternally condemned is “anathema” which means to be sent to hell!~ Paul is like – look, I used to please the Jews when I was trying to kill Christians, but now I please God and HE gave me this message - I’m not making it up! Ask around, people know the change in me! SO WHAT? *Paul, as God’s messenger, stuck to God’s message, not his own, and it was powerful. Stories and illustrations are good, but the more you & I speak the Word of God, the more power the message will have. I’ve also learned that when I stick to God’s Word and people have a problem with what I’ve said, then I can encourage them to take it up with God because it’s HIS message. *If you have put your trust & faith in Jesus’ sacrifice for the forgiveness of your sin, then you too are called of God! And like Paul, this occurs immediately! How incredible is God’s grace?! *Finally, let’s not make the good news just “ok news” by adding to it. It’s grace, grace, grace and it’s not earned or ever could be earned, but it’s given freely to ALL who believe & receive!

Tuesday, August 14, 2012

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 162 - 2 Corinthians 13: Examination

Paul is about to visit the Corinthians for a third time and it may not be pretty! "Every matter must be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses." – means some will be judged for not repenting of their sins! He also warns them to “Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you—unless, of course, you fail the test?” Paul and his ministry have been attacked throughout this letter and now he turns the table on the accusers. If the Corinthians could prove their Christianity, this would prove Paul’s apostleship because if they are in Christ it is because of Paul’s ministry to them! Paul’s conduct was true & right and stood the test. And it shows in his constant concern for them and not himself! He prays for their “perfection”, that they would be restored fully in their spiritual health. Finally, Paul explains that everything he says & does is for “building them up, not tearing them down.” He tells them to “Aim for perfection” – in other words, keep the standard of Christ high! SO WHAT?! *Paul’s character allowed the Gospel message to be received well. The way you & I live speaks volumes! Does your life (& mine) draw people to Jesus or push them away? What can we do to live more “attractively?” *When do you feel at your weakest? Witnessing? Being in front of others? Etc…? It could just be that at that very moment Jesus wants to be strong in you!!! *How does my life show I am concerned for the spiritual welfare of others? Am I? What would need to happen for me to become a more concerned friend?

Monday, August 13, 2012

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 161 -2 Corinthians 12: A Thorn, A Vision & Sarcasm

Wild as some of it may seem, this chapter is classic! For those of us who receive & dish out sarcasm it will be even more enjoyable! Boasting has been a theme for a couple chapters now. In lieu of this, Paul basically states “Hey, it’s foolish to boast, but here goes….” “I know a man” – ok, he’s talking about himself here, so just track with him. Paul had some kind of “out of this world, out of body” experience. Not sure what it was and neither was Paul, but it was an experience with God and it left Paul speechless. Paul would “boast about a man like that” because it exalts Jesus not himself! Paul also clarified that if he did boast about his experiences “he would be speaking the truth.” Well, because “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble” – James 4:6, God will do whatever it takes to make & keep us humble. Say, like, a “thorn in the flesh!” What was this? Temptations? Malaria? Epilepsy? Speech problems? Persecution? People? Again, not exactly sure what this was, but guys, Paul is NOT talking about his wife!~ (I’ve heard this) What I do know is that it was GOD who gave it to him and, whatever it was ,it was meant to keep him from exalting himself! Paul didn’t want it, but God was more concerned that Paul see God’s grace as enough, as all he needed, as sufficient. Paul spends the rest of this chapter sarcastically explaining his love and sacrifice for the Corinthians. He was hurt that this church doubted & questioned him – let me paraphrase 11-13: “I served y’all faithfully and sacrificed tons – what didn’t I do for y’all?!~ Oh yeah, I didn’t charge you a stinkin’ dime – well excuuuuse me! Paul goes on to say in verse 15 “I will very gladly spend for you everything I have and expend myself as well. If I love you more, will you love me less?” Paul spent the money he earned as a tent maker on them and was willing to risk his life for them as well! Then with a little more sarcasm writes, “Yet, crafty fellow that I am, I caught you by trickery!” Translation – I can’t believe you’ve been deceived to think I’m exploiting you!~ This hurt Paul even more. Paul then finishes by explaining that anything he did was to strengthen them in their faith and walk with Christ. Period. SO WHAT?! *Visions, miracles & supernatural stuff can be difficult to understand, but I believe they still exist (not the crazy stuff on TV). The tests are time, and if they line up with God’s Word. *All over the Bible we read that God is for the humble, lowly & meek, but opposes the trash talkin’ & arrogant. This is a great reminder to always humble ourselves before the Lord & others, lest God allows a jab in our side with something sharp! *Ever had your integrity questioned or doubted? Yeah, me too. Whenever this happens, we need to remember the words of Peter, “So then, those who suffer according to God’s will should commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good.” – 1 Peter 4:19 *Great grace and great privilege go hand in hand with great suffering. Lord help us to remember that YOU are greater than anything we face! *Finally, verse 15 impressed me! Ministry costs time, money, resources, energy, etc… Unless we gladly minister (vs 15), it can be easy to become bitter or feel unappreciated. How are you feeling about the ministry you’re involved in?

Saturday, August 11, 2012

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 160 - 2 Corinthians 11: Impostors & Paul’s Resume

A while back I did a little investigating into counterfeiting. Ok, not to begin a printshop of my own, but strictly to get a better understanding. I learned that those who look for fake bills don’t study fake bills. Instead they study the real thing so well that it is easy for them to spot a fake – even without the little highlighter pen! What an eye opener this was for me! My need is not so much to study Mormonism or Islam or Jehovah’s Witnesses as it is to dig deep into the truth of God’s Word so much so that I can tell when something is contrary to the Bible! False teachers were a problem in Paul’s day and they still are today. Paul explains why they must be confronted: “But I am afraid that just as Eve was deceived by the serpent's cunning, your minds may somehow be led astray from your sincere and pure devotion to Christ.” Paul had a great concern that fakes would come and corrupt these new believer’s impressionable minds! Totally true - little kids believe almost anything, and new believers can do the same. Paul then again reminded them that he was not a burden to them (by accepting $) but was a blessing: “Why? Because I do not love you? God knows I do!” Paul loved them and he was not the one deceiving them, it was those who “masquerade as servants of righteousness.” – the false teachers who were deceiving! Paul them, while “boasting foolishly”, gives a pretty unusual resume…”I have worked much harder, been in prison more frequently, been flogged more severely, and been exposed to death again and again. Five times I received from the Jews the forty lashes minus one. Three times I was beaten with rods, once I was stoned, three times I was shipwrecked, I spent a night and a day in the open sea, I have been constantly on the move. I have been in danger from rivers, in danger from bandits, in danger from my own countrymen, in danger from Gentiles; in danger in the city, in danger in the country, in danger at sea; and in danger from false brothers. I have labored and toiled and have often gone without sleep; I have known hunger and thirst and have often gone without food; I have been cold and naked. Besides everything else, I face daily the pressure of my concern for all the churches. Who is weak, and I do not feel weak? Who is led into sin, and I do not inwardly burn?” Wow! If anyone had external credentials it was Paul. Yet how incredible is it that Paul’s focus was not on what might be “successes” in ministry but on the defeats of his ministry, his weaknesses! SO WHAT?! *Ever been conned into believing something that you found out later was false?! Deception is real and those against God and His Word are excellent at deceiving. As believers, we need to sift everything we hear through the Word of God to test if it is true or not. We can only do that by being IN the Word of God regularly. I hope this read thru the new testament has been good for you. It’s been great for me and we all need God’s perspective! *What does our resume for God look like? A list of all “our” accomplishments? I hope not. I have a sticker in my office that reads, “I bring absolutely nothing to the table.” It makes me laugh and it also reminds me that the only thing I truly bring to the table before God is my sin! Lord, please help me to only boast of your incredible love, mercy & grace – because I need it big time!

Friday, August 10, 2012

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 159 - 2 Corinthians 10: Authority in Ministry

Chapters 10-13 mark a transition, a change in tone. In C chapters 1-7, Paul defends his apostolic authority and ministry. In chapters 8-9, Paul teaches on generosity. And now, in Chapters 10-13, Paul is going to exercise his apostolic authority against false teaching. False teaching unaddressed leads people astray. So how does Paul address it? First, with gentleness, meekness, yet boldness. Attitude is everything. Paul didn’t want to use his authority (“I beg”) but if he had to he would. Second, because this is a spiritual war, Paul says he doesn’t fight with “the standards of this world” but with God’s Word, prayer & obedience. He realizes he’s in a battle bigger than Corinth and he has his spiritual armor on (Ephesians 6)! Thirdly, Paul’s life & integrity gave him the platform to address these things (7-11). Your walk has to match your talk. Fourthly, you address issues with humility (12). Comparison is not with others but with God’s holy standard – which puts all of us on the same level – sinners in need of a Savior! Finally, Paul’s boast is in the Lord. Yep – keep bringing it back to Jesus as you address issues and the Holy Spirit can do great work! SO WHAT?! *What are some of the false teachings that can tempt you & I each day? Money? Self-centeredness? Truth is relative? Etc… How are we combating those false teachings? Being in God’s Word helps us see them. Speaking up with gentleness and boldness is another way. *How are we living? Does our life show integrity? Do we even value a life of integrity? It takes years to build and only seconds to trash. One of the greatest witnesses to the Gospel of Jesus is the way you & I live – holy, honestly and not for ourselves but for Jesus. *Ever get into the comparison mode? You know, “I may be bad but I’m not as bad off as……..” As believers, the standard by which we are judged will never be someone else’s life. We are measured against the perfection of Christ – and we ALL fall short. BUT PTL for God reconciling us in Jesus (5:17-21)!!!!!!

Wednesday, August 8, 2012

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 158 - 2 Corinthians 9: Sowing & Reaping Generously

I grew up on a farm in Iowa. Each year we would plow, get fields ready, sow seed, fertilize, pull weeds and hope God would grow it (water, sun). It was hard work but each year God gave us a harvest that was plentiful! Just as God is a generous giver, we are to have hearts of generosity as well. Paul had been bragging to other churches that the Corinthians has been wanting to financially help others (2). So he sends some fellow believers to confirm their desire and collect the gift (3-5). Then Paul lays out an amazingly true principle: “Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously.” As sowers, God gives us the freedom to sow much or to sow little. It really is up to us. I don’t say this to give a “guilt trip” (and believe me, I can major in guilt and minor in shame if you’d like me to). “Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” Giving is meant to be a joy, an opportunity to invest. Often times we may be reluctant to give sacrificially for fear that our own needs might not be met. Paul knew this too and so he writes “…He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness.” And lastly, God takes our generous gifts and uses them to meet people’s needs which cause them to praise God! (12-15). SO WHAT?! *When it come to giving, would others brag on you about your generosity? Or would they see you as a “scrooge”? *Using the farming metaphor, would we be able to earn a living by what we are sowing? Or would we starve? *What is holding you & I back from giving generously, beyond our ability? Lord remind us that YOU ARE ABLE!

Tuesday, August 7, 2012

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 157 - 2 Corinthians 8: Generosity

Are you & I generous? Do we go the extra mile for others?? Do we give to the Lord??? Good questions huh?! Certainly God is generous. He gave us Jesus. He offers us heaven. He gives us His absolute best! These are great reminders in a culture that is constantly trying to get us to focus on ourselves. Here’s the skinny from this chapter on being generous. First of all, generosity has little to do with how much you have. “Out of the most severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity. For I testify that they gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability.” Secondly, we are to give ourselves first, then our resources: “they gave themselves first to the Lord and then to us in keeping with God's will.” Thirdly, we are to give more & more so that we “excel in this grace of giving.” And if these three don’t move us to be generous, how about the example of Christ!? - “For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, so that you through his poverty might become rich.” Next, generosity should be done willingly to meet the needs of others: “For if the willingness is there, the gift is acceptable” and “your plenty will supply what they need.” Finally, when people give, we are to handle their gifts with integrity. Paul made special efforts to be transparent with finances! And we should too. SO WHAT?! *How is your giving? Do you regularly give to the LORD? Do you see the Sunday offering as a burden or a privilege? As a cost or an investment? Our heart attitude will determine the extent to which we give and are generous. *Maybe you feel like you don’t have much to be generous with. I often feel that way and so did the Macedonian churches and so did the widow in Mark 12! But they gave anyway! *Gifts given represent hours worked, dollars earned and are to be treated as so. Many a church and a minister have fallen due to misuse of these gifts. I have nothing to do with collecting the offering nor will I. Scares me honestly, and I want help students Know Jesus and Make Him Known for a long time! You keep praying I stay away from the finances! *Finally, what are you & I sacrificing so we can give to the Lord? Eating out? The latest gadget? Entertainment? Here’s a sneak peek at a verse out of our next chapter - “Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously.”

Monday, August 6, 2012

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 156 - 2 Corinthians 7: Persevering

This chapter gives some great tools for persevering in life and in ministry: Vs. 1 – Live differently for the Lord Vs. 2 – Have a forgiving heart Vs. 3-4 – Brag on others Vs. 5 – Realize life & ministry can be hard Vs. 6 – Go to God for comfort & strength Vs. 7 – Receive encouragement Vs. 8-13 – Recognize Godly sorrow gives life Vs 13-16 – Take chances in boasting about others Vs. 4,6,7,13,15,16 – Have JOY! SO WHAT? *What relationships would be affected most by you living differently for the Lord? Friends? Family? Work? Are you willing to risk those relationships? What keeps you (& me) from living separately? *As we daily live in this imperfect world, what is our daily temperament? Joy? Anger? Depression? Bitterness? What would our neighbors say our prevailing temperament is? What would our family say it is? *When you speak of others, do you build them up or tear them down? Read Ephesians 4:29! *How has sorrow in your life drawn you to God? Will you take a moment & thank Him?!

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 155 - 2 Corinthians 6: Grace & Living

Grace – Grace – Grace…..I’ve gladly received it and God wants me to gladly dish it out. Deal!!!!! Paul again continues to defend his ministry of the Gospel of Grace and in this chapter he demonstrates it with his patient endurance and sincere attitude through it all. He begins by begging his readers “not to receive God's grace in vain.” Don’t turn down the great exchange of 5:21! Don’t believe a different message. And don’t pass up this opportunity because it won’t be offered forever: “now is the time of God's favor, now is the day of salvation.” Paul then in 3-10 lays out a defense that is hard to argue with. No one who is in it for themselves, or for the money, would put up with as much as he did. You have to be called to endure and live like this! And then you see his heart: “We have spoken freely to you, Corinthians, and opened wide our hearts to you. We are not withholding our affection from you, but you are withholding yours from us. As a fair exchange—I speak as to my children—open wide your hearts also.” Paul so desired to have intimacy in the Lord with these believers! The final verses lay out a principle that is all over the Bible: Those who believe & receive Jesus are to live differently. So what does “Do not be yoked together with unbelievers” and “be separate, says the Lord” mean? Well it doesn’t mean we are to isolate ourselves from unbelievers! Paul made that clear in 1 Corinthians 9-10 and unbelievers are the mission field not our enemies! Being yoked together is a farming term. You wouldn’t put an ox & a donkey in a harness together to plow because they have different strengths & different temperaments and it would be a disaster! In the same way, believers & unbelievers are totally different (5:17) and partnering with them leads to disaster and compromise. This would include marriage, some friendships, joining with churches of differing beliefs, partnering in business, etc… Recently, I had counseled a former student who married a Mormon girl and now are divorced. Bums me out. They had asked me to do their wedding and, as kindly as I knew how, I took them to this passage and showed them why I couldn’t. Whenever we chose to go against clear commands of God it brings hurt, pain and disaster. *SO WHAT?! *Are you a believer? Have you believed & received the gracious good news that Jesus took the punishment for your sin? If you haven’t yet, why not right now? TODAY it is available, tomorrow it may not be! And if you do believe & receive Jesus today – tell someone who can help you grow in that relationship! *If you have believed & received this gracious gift, what are you doing with it? Are you keeping it to yourself? Or are you sharing it? Don’t hold on to it in vain. *Who are you “yoked” with? Next to your personal relationship with Jesus, marriage is the biggest decision you’ll ever make. Be sure you marry someone who loves the Lord and is committed to Him! It’s better to be single, wishing you were married, than to be married, wishing you were single! And be careful whom you partner with in other areas – business, church, etc…It can lead to disaster!

Thursday, August 2, 2012

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 154 - 2 Corinthians 5: “Tents” & “The Great Exchange”

I like camping. I like camping in tents (unless of course it’s 80+ degrees). And I’ve camped in some pretty rocky weather where I’ve wondered if my tent was gonna’ hold up or if I’d be sleeping in my truck the rest of the night. But I don’t LIVE in a tent, it’s only a temporary place to stay. Paul uses this analogy in the first part of today’s chapter. “Earthly tent” = our body, a hut, vs. “building/eternal house” = our new body in heaven, a permanent, secure structure. Just as the Israelites replaced tabernacle with the temple, so believers will someday exchange their dying bodies for new, eternal ones. Until then, “we groan”. I know this sounds like something an old person with aches & pains would say, but this groaning is actually the longing to be free from sin and be with Jesus! So what keeps you going in this life? Paul mentions two things for him here: First, the hope of being with Jesus, living by faith, not by sight. Second, was the reality of giving an account of his life to Jesus some day. Ummm…………yep – those two work for me too! The rest of the chapter focuses on what I call the “GREAT EXCHANGE!” Paul writes, “Since, then, we know what it is to fear the Lord, we try to persuade men.” Paul wanted a good evaluation from God (10) and was compelled by Christ’s love that we should “…no longer live for ourselves but for him who died for them and was raised again.” Life in Christ is new life: “…if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!“ And with this new life, God gives ALL believers a job description: “All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting men's sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation. We are therefore Christ's ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ's behalf: Be reconciled to God.” Sweeeeet! My job (& yours) is to be God’s rep here on earth, helping people know how to get right with Him! That’s it. The next verse is what I call the “Great Exchange”, the best deal ever: “God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.” So God, takes my sin, puts it on Jesus, punishes Him, then takes His (Jesus) perfection and puts it on me & I’m made right with God for eternity – WOWSA!!!!!!!! Wal-mart, the Internet, the Mall or any place in eternity can’t get you a better deal!!! SO WHAT?! *How do you feel about death? Are you ready to say with Paul that you “…would prefer to be away from the body and at home with the Lord”? If not, what is keeping you from desiring this? *What compels you to live each day? Stuff? Recognition? Etc…? What compels you to no longer live for yourself but for Jesus? *What do you want to be in life: Doctor? Accountant? Veterinarian? Pastor? Mom? Engineer? Whatever career we choose, you and I are first and foremost God’s ambassadors, His representatives here on earth. So…….how’s that goin’ for ya’? Are you a good one? *We all like a good deal. And when we get one, we tell everyone about it! You & I deserve punishment from God for our sins, but daily are offered eternity in heaven instead when we believe! There is no greater deal in all of eternity and we should be telling all our friends that they too can have the same deal! Will you tell someone today? Take a moment right now and ask God for both the opportunity and then courage to speak up! Lord help us, compel us and please use us!

Wednesday, August 1, 2012

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 153 - 2 Corinthians 4: Treasure & Cracked Pots!

So, have you ever been to Garden Ridge Pottery? (If you’re a guy, even if you have, don’t admit it! ) So ok, let me rephrase it, ummm………… have you ever seen the burnt orange pots at your local garden center that you plant stuff in? Yeah, me too. They’re the cheapest pots there, pretty common, not real attractive, they’re fragile, crack easily and if you break one you just get another. Basically they are dirt baked hard. BUT they are USEFUL or we wouldn’t see so many of them! Well, in this chapter, Paul refers to believers as “cracked pots” (jars of clay) and explains both the message of Christ and the messenger of Christ. Beginning with the message of Christ, we are reminded in verse one that ministry for Jesus is only by God’s mercy. He didn’t and doesn’t need us but chooses to use us! As Paul proclaimed this message he did not use deception but was clear “…by setting forth the truth plainly...” And he explains that if people didn’t understand the message it was because “The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God.” It’s not about us (5) but Jesus! And by the way, Jesus is God (6). Then Paul writes that we have this treasure – the good news message of Jesus – in “jars of clay.” Now why would God put His eternal, saving, good news for all mankind in believers like you & me? “…to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us.” In other words, God uses weak, fragile people (like me) to carry His eternal, powerful treasure of truth so that people will have no question that it must be from God – because I’m a pretty sorry dude, BUT I am useful! Paul then further describes the messenger as having battle scars (8-9). The demands of ministry can take their toll – “hardpressed, perplexed, persecuted, struck down….” yet they were not death blows and these weaknesses actually made the message strong because it pointed to Jesus not Paul! Messengers of Jesus both SPEAK UP, “It is written: "I believed; therefore I have spoken. "With that same spirit of faith we also believe and therefore speak…”, and PUT UP, “Therefore we do not lose heart.” SO WHAT?! *As we talk to people about Jesus, lets be sure to be simple and clear. We don’t need to “water down” the message, it is powerful (Romans 1:16). *Ever shared Jesus with someone and they just don’t get it? It could be that Satan has blinded them and we need to pray for them to be able to understand. *Finally, do you spend more time working on the message or the messenger? We like to look good but I wonder if that can detract from the simple, powerful message of the Gospel! Lord help me today to be more concerned about your message than myself. Thank you Lord, that even though I’m common ,fragile and easily crack, you still want to use me!