Proverbs 11:20 - Train the heart

Proverbs 11:20 

The perverse in heart are an abomination to the Lord,

But the blameless in [their] walk are His delight. 

Message: Train the heart

Time: Proverbs records multiple individuals as its author with Solomon as the principal author. Solomon died in 931 BC though most think the book was likely in its final form sometime before the end of Hezekiah’s reign in 686 BC. It is a book that instructs people on the path of wisdom. It speaks to all of life and living our lives under the authority and direction of God.

What the Lord is Saying: These contrasts are always interesting to me. The contrast here is the perverse and the blameless; the result is an abomination or a delight and how it relates to the Lord. Matthew Henry comments here, "Nothing is more hateful to God, than hypocrisy and double dealing, which are here signified. God delights in such as aim and act with uprightness." It is interesting and amazing to me that this book is written, that we have this collection in Proverbs. It reminds me of Rob's lessons and the numerous ways to say the same thing. Like there is this constant need for more information, in the hopes that people will live their lives in the correct manner. Like, how many different ways can it be said. 

The Lord wants our upright behavior. The Lord wants us to walk in ways of blameless. At my PT appointment there seems to be a recognition by the people of the hospital to be attentive to people's needs. We get these feedback ratings and the good feedback is wanted, the good ratings of customer service. The cable guy knows he needs the good rating even though his demeanor wasn't necessarily great, but he asked for all 10's and I guess you want to give that to him, even though there was something about him that wasn't helpful. But it is wanted is the point. People see that what people want is good customer service. We see this in life. To be respectful. And in many ways that is what these passages are saying over and over. 

It amazes me and makes me wonder how did we get all of these sayings and why did Solomon write them all. I think of Grandmother Payton and Wiley and even my mom and the various sayings around the house, the phrases and the notebooks Wiley had of all the sayings and the clippings my Grandmother had - little motivating words, little reminders. All of these little reminders. 

Maybe this is what we need continually, to be reminded more and more of these truths. 

Source of following statements: 

• In biblical context, the heart is often seen as the center of one's being, encompassing thoughts, intentions, and will.
• The emphasis on the heart suggests that God is concerned not just with outward actions but with the inner motivations and attitudes of individuals.
• The term "blameless" does not imply sinlessness but rather integrity and uprightness in one's conduct.
• The "walk" refers to one's way of life or conduct, suggesting a consistent pattern of living that aligns with God's commandments.

It isn't only the outward God is focused on, but what is on the inside. And living that sort of life that encompasses thoughts, intentions and will. But it isn't about being perfect. And yet in Scripture whatever the failure rate there is - 10% or 15% or more that Jesus covers it. And yet that 10% makes us completely unworthy. LDS thought is do your best and Jesus covers the rest, but this misses the boat. We are stamped not acceptable the moment we sin. Yes, we want to live good lives, but for our own well being, not for God's acceptance. 

Prayer: God, these verses and the meaning of these verses is what I need though at times I don't understand the repetition but I suppose we need these reminders continually. We need the constant reinforcement of the behavior we are all trying to live by. I need these good sources of information and need to be trained in this manner that reminds me that life is about glorifying you. That it is about pleasing you and making you number one. But God I thank you for covering my sin. That you cover it all. That you make it so I can know you. You have given me the right understanding of who you are and who I am in Christ. Keep working on my heart and not only mine but all those I am in contact with, in my life. I thank you for the friends you have given me and the course of life we are all on. Thank you for my grandmothers and the reminders in life that we need to live rightly. I need that reinforcement. Lord, you want my good behavior. Help me to make the right choices in life, to honor you. And I need this good behavior in my life. I live by peace when I live in this manner. 

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's.

John 6:30-35 - True Bread from Heaven

John 6:30-35

30 They said therefore to Him, "What then do You do for a sign, that we may see, and believe You? What work do You perform? 31 Our fathers ate the manna in the wilderness; as it is written, 'HE GAVE THEM BREAD OUT OF HEAVEN TO EAT.'" 32 Jesus therefore said to them, "Truly, truly, I say to you, it is not Moses who has given you the bread out of heaven, but it is My Father who gives you the true bread out of heaven. 33 For the bread of God is that which comes down out of heaven, and gives life to the world." 34 They said therefore to Him, "Lord, evermore give us this bread." 35 Jesus said to them, "I am the bread of life; he who comes to Me shall not hunger, and he who believes in Me shall never thirst."

Message: The Bread from Heaven

Time: John most likely wrote between A.D. 85 and 90. John's purpose in writing was, "that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing you may have life in His name (John 20:31)."

What the Lord is Saying: After Jesus has walked on the water, coming to the disciples after he went alone to the mountains, following feeding the multitudes through a miracle, he approaches the multitude again and speaks to them in the synagogue (John 6:59) to hopefully show them through words and direction that following Him is not about gaining personal needs alone. There is a danger in coming to Jesus only to benefit oneself - such as getting healed or getting our needs met with food or finances. Jesus is not simply a Santa Clause or genie that grants wishes. Rather we are to believe in Him. Our food is being focused on the eternal life that He provides. 

In life, this is normal. The reason we often do things is fueled by our own selfish desires or needs, but Jesus is wanting us to learn to define our life based upon His ways. 

The previous passage is the beginning of a larger message on Jesus, the Bread of Life. This has been called, 'the Bread of Life Discourse.' We need bread to survive. Jesus is going to show us that He is the bread we need to survive.  

Going back to what Jesus said prior to verse 30, He was trying to get the multitude to take their focus off of what they expected Jesus to be and see Jesus and hear the message He has come to preach. Jesus is not simply a figure of their political liberation, but to give them life, eternal life. But they still don't get it and respond in verse 30 with "Show us a sign." And they provide an example of the type of sign they are thinking - Bread from heaven in a similar way to the the bread (manna) Moses brought to the people while traveling in the wilderness. 

And Jesus basically says, "You are looking at your bread for life." It is me. It is I. So you want a sign, you want something, I am that something that You want. 

Jesus back in John 3 talked about being born again. Jesus is continuing to give that message, though stated another way. In John 3 something must happen to the person to be born again: they must be regenerated by the Spirit of God. For a person to understand and come to Jesus, they must be changed by Jesus. [This remains a puzzle to me. Jesus is showing people how they need to come to Him not with their own agendas and yet that coming to Him is only by the Spirit prompting people.] And this food is eternal life. 

Once again, I go back to Psalm 23:1 - The Lord is my shepherd. I shall not want. Or I shall not have a need to want. Or I shall lack nothing when the Lord is my shepherd. My shepherd will provide me what I need. 

Summary: Jesus tells the multitude that the Father provides the true bread of life that they need and Jesus is this bread, giving us eternal life and therefore, we shall not hunger or thirst again. 

Promise: Only Jesus can give us eternal life, reconciling us to our great God. 

Prayer: Lord, it is interesting to me how your message of salvation and what we need is so similar throughout the scripture. It is a repeated message that You want me to define my life by what You are telling me is the meaning of life. I am out there often in the world trying to define my world and my ways on what the world tells me is important. And yet once we have this salvation, once I have it, I need to keep coming back to You so that you define in me everyday what I am to know, what You want to impart to me. 

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's. 

Galatians 3:24 - The Law Our Guardian

Galatians 3:24 - Therefore the Law has become our tutor to lead us to Christ, so that we may be justified by faith.

Message: The Law Our Guardian

Time: Paul wrote to the churches in southern Galatia after having a hand in starting them on his first missionary journey to Asia Minor. This is Paul at his angriest, writing to make sure the church is on the path of truth, as the church had fallen into error. He wrote the book a few months before the Jerusalem council in AD 49. 

What the Lord is Saying:

This is a verse I tried to memorize several years ago as it was a verse I was encouraged by as I spent time studying the School of Biblical Evangelism. I loved the verse, but struggled with the memorization as I have struggled memorizing it seems once I've hit about 45 in age. 

In this study of the right use of God's law, I am seeing that at the core of each person is the fact that each of us is a sinner. This study must begin with that premise as we were sinners prior to the giving of the Law. It is an important reminder in this study that sin is already on the scene and is already stirred up in people's lives. I think that is a really important distinction because this means that man's rebirth or salvation answer must have occurred before the giving of the Law. I say this because I think in civilization there is a tendency in thinking that the Law is a saving tool, often providing a measuring tool of how we are living life with the idea that how we believe we are performing against that tool or measuring rod determines our acceptance by God. 

But rather these lessons are here to remind us that our salvation is apart from the law entirely and this law simply helps us see further our need for Christ and our own insufficiency. The Laws are important and represent our standard and remind us also what we need to be doing, but it is not a saving device. 

I think one reason that the Law has an attraction to man is it is ingrained in us. That can be a good thing and that can also be deceptive. A consequence of sinning is working (toiling the land) and yet we find joy in our toils and a sense of accomplishment and in that accomplishment a sense of justification that our work is producing something good. In contrary the Gospel of Jesus Christ is a simple message of "Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest." That salvation is not accomplished by me, but simply by my walking to Him and letting Him take care of the problem of sin; this is a re-training of our thinking. 

The law is not a tool of justifying me, but rather it is an instrument to bring me to Christ and show me my need for Him. And the Law is also a tool in helping us understanding that the atonement or the atoning sacrifice that occurred in Christ is the means to my salvation.  

Promise:  As John Calvin comments, "The law, in short, was nothing else than an immense variety of exercises, in which the worshippers were led by the hand to Christ."

Prayer: Lord, thank you for continuing to confirm truth into my life and continuing to show me the Story of Life and Your Story of Salvation. It is easy and that easiness is always under attack. Lord, help me know how to talk to people that are simply ingrained in the idea that righteousness comes about through man's obedience. Lord, I must admit that I get sidetracked by their thinking and with them I struggle in my conversations that seem to result in more division than greater adherence to your ways. You know me Lord, I want to keep peace and this I see at times is not good as it starts to have me be agreeable to people instead of leading them to You. I want to nourish and feed your sheep. Give me the strength to do this in the way you have called me to do this. I stay committed to You God and Love you God and am forever grateful of your forever mercy. 

Note: I follow the readings from the Tabletalk Magazine devotional, though I am a little behind and working through 2017 devotionals. 2017 is a study of key biblical doctrines celebrating the 500th year of the Reformation. The month of July is about the right use of God's Law; June was justification by faith alone; May about solus Christus - Christ Alone; April, salvation by grace alone; March, the sovereign providence of God; February, the doctrine of revelation and the various aspects of the doctrine of Scripture that sola Scriptura seeks to preserve; January, the doctrine of God.

The Restraint of the Law - the law is given for lawless, unholy, disobedient people, to restrain us from acting on our sinful thoughts. Restraint and Guilt - the law is meant to restrain Christians and non-Christians alike; so that others may see Christ. The Law's Revelation of Sin - The Law reveals sin, at times making it more desirable, and show the sin which people commit and the complete standard it expects. The Law and Our Powerlessness - We are powerless over the Law and Sin revealed. It is in Christ that we receive forgiveness and the power to resist sin.

My Utmost for His Highest - June 19th - Service of Passionate Devotion

He saith to him again the second time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my sheep. - John 21:16

    Jesus did not say — Make converts to your way of thinking, but look after My sheep, see that they get nourished in the knowledge of Me. We count as service what we do in the way of Christian work; Jesus Christ calls service what we are to Him, not what we do for Him. Discipleship is based on devotion to Jesus Christ, not on adherence to a belief or a creed. “If any man come to Me and hate not…, he cannot be My disciple. (Luke 14:26)” There is no argument and no compulsion, but simply — “If you would be My disciple, you must be devoted to Me.” A man touched by the Spirit of God suddenly says — “Now I see Who Jesus is,” and that is the source of devotion.

    To-day we have substituted credal belief for personal belief, and that is why so many are devoted to causes and so few devoted to Jesus Christ. People do not want to be devoted to Jesus, but only to the cause He started. Jesus Christ is a source of deep offence to the educated mind of to-day that does not want Him in any other way than as a Comrade. Our Lord’s first obedience was to the will of His Father, not to the needs of men; the saving of men was the natural outcome of His obedience to the Father. If I am devoted to the cause of humanity only, I will soon be exhausted and come to the place where my love will falter; but if I love Jesus Christ personally and passionately, I can serve humanity though men treat me as a door-mat. The secret of a disciple’s life is devotion to Jesus Christ, and the characteristic of the life is its unobtrusiveness. It is like a corn of wheat, which falls into the ground and dies, but presently it will spring up and alter the whole landscape (John 12:24).

Mom's Notes

2009 Mother's Death

My Notes

Nourish my sheep. Be devoted to God/Jesus, not to causes only He started. Be devoted to His followers. 

 - From Oswald Chambers, "My Utmost for His Highest" - Classic Edition

Highlights and Underlines are courtesy of Mom from her print edition

2 Timothy 3:17 - Biblical Sufficiency

2 Timothy 3:17
so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work.

Message: Biblical Sufficiency

Time: Paul wrote his second letter to Timothy 4 years into Timothy's ministry at the church of Ephesus. Paul wrote this letter from a dark and damp Roman prison cell, just before his beheading in AD 67. Paul wrote again to this young leader in the church at Ephesus to provide him encouragement and fortitude in the face of difficulties and trials.

What the Lord is Saying:

Preface - I continue in the study of the doctrine of revelation and the various aspects of the doctrine of Scripture. God's special revelation to us is through his speaking. He spoke directly in the person of Jesus, God's Son, and He continues to speak through the Word of God - which he inspired or rather breathed into men who would record those words for us to read today. God spoke through these authors and their words still express each of their gifts and personalities and the people that they were but their words of Scripture are God's words. They are infallible and complete. They are God's final revelation. Therefore, there are not new holy scriptures, like the Book of Mormon or the Qu'ran. The Bible is final.

I studied 2 Timothy 3:16 yesterday which speaks of All Scripture is inspired. The Scripture at the time of Paul's writing has different interpretations. It could only mean the writings of the Old Testament prophets. But, up to the Canon in the 5th century it came to be known also as all of the writings which would make up the Canon of Scripture. I'm curios now about a book by FF Bruce called The Canon of Scripture. I also came across a book called An Introduction to the Study of the Gospels by Brooke Foss Westcott from 1881 that looks to chronicle some of these men from the early centuries that helped in their involvement of the Canon of Scripture.

As it stated in 2 Timothy 3:16 - All Scripture is profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness. The KJV stayed "profitable for doctrine" which would mean that all the doctrines that we need are found in these texts. It is for reproof which means it convicts and shows us how we cannot save ourselves. It is for correction so it shows us what evil is to be avoided and then also what practice is to be performed; this shows us that our strength lies in the Lord. It is for training in righteousness as the Spirit of God inspired writers to write and readers to read and understand, all for the purpose of the constant training of us, his followers, toward righteous living.

Therefore, so that the man of God, that is every follower or devoted person of God, may be adequate or perfect or stand complete in the will of God. Each follower is to be equipped for every good work. Faith works. Faith is not only recognition, but faith works. Faith leads to a life of service. Paul wants to be clear I think in his writings that we are equipped for every good work and we are created in Christ Jesus for good works (Ephesians 2:10). This book may not cover every subject but it provides us everything we need to make every decision. There are principles here that guide and direct our paths and this often includes trusting in God and relying on the Spirit of God to direct our paths.

Promise: Scripture provides us God's will for our lives - completely. It is all we need. It is sufficient to give us what we need to please God doing good works in order to be made complete.

Prayer: Thank you Lord for this Word of Truth and reminding me that it is sufficient. It is everything that I need and this is why I continue to come to it each day to enrich my life and equip me. I never want to grow dull of this study and I trust that you will continue to equip me.


Note: I follow the readings from the Tabletalk Magazine devotional, though I am a little behind and working through 2017 devotionals. 2017 is a study of key biblical doctrines with February being about the doctrine of revelation and the various aspects of the doctrine of Scripture that sola Scriptura seeks to preserve.

Mark 7:9-13 - Making Void the Word of God

Mark 7:9-13
9 He was also saying to them, “You are experts at setting aside the commandment of God in order to keep your tradition. 10 For Moses said, ‘Honor your father and your mother’; and, ‘He who speaks evil of father or mother, is to be put to death’; 11 but you say, ‘If a man says to his father or his mother, whatever I have that would help you is Corban (that is to say, given to God),’ 12 you no longer permit him to do anything for his father or his mother; 13 thus invalidating the word of God by your tradition which you have handed down; and you do many things such as that.”

Message: Making Void the Word of God

Time: Mark's personal connection with Peter gave him the source material for this book. This book was composed probably between AD 57 and AD 59. It's a book that is on the move, leading to the cross. 39 times is the word 'immediately' used. Mark reveals Jesus as God's servant, reaching into the lives of people and effecting physical and circumstantial change.

What the Lord is Saying:

Preface - At the beginning of Chapter 7, Mark pauses a moment in his gospel to bring attention to the Pharisees and their attack on Jesus for doing things that are contrary to the laws and traditions they have followed. Jesus permits his disciples to eat without clean hands. Here, Jesus is speaking of the importance of a heart change. I don't think he is diminishing the importance of keeping oneself clean, but he is emphasizing that we all need to make sure that we don't get caught up in rules and outward appearances and forget the real issue: the motive of one's own heart.

As he speaks to the Pharisees, trying to get them to think about the heart, He was also saying to them, “You are experts at setting aside the commandment of God in order to keep your tradition." Ouch. That hurts. But, this is the crux of what Jesus is communicating. The problem with these religious people is not just that they kept certain traditions, but they elevated them above the commandment of God. The commandment of God became almost secondary.

The rabbinic traditions are many, but they are not wild notions but rather further clarifications to situations that are not clearly expressed in the Bible, thus it is an attempt by man to further apply truth to all situations. I call this abiding by the oral law which is something very common in many religious groups. Purgatory is one of those oral laws, as well as exalting certain leaders of a faith as saints. These are ideas not mentioned in scripture and yet they are exalted to a level equal of scripture.

Here is an interesting example, taken from the pages of TableTalk on May 17, 2016:

Judaism’s system of kosher laws is a classic example. (Modern Judaism is based more on the traditions of the rabbis than on the Old Testament.) Exodus 23:19; 34:26; and Deuteronomy 14:21 all say, “You shall not boil a young goat in its mother’s milk.” Over time, the kosher law that milk and meat products should not be eaten together developed out of a desire to keep the commandments of these passages. After all, if one never puts meat and milk together, one will certainly never boil a young animal in its mother’s milk, even accidentally.

What the Jews did and just the Jews but many religions is develop a code of conduct based upon the law, providing more detailed requirements for keeping that law. There is a commandment in scripture that says, "Do not be unequally yoked." What I see from that is parents then defining that their children can never be around non-Christians as they are growing up. Or even the command to "train up a child in the way he should go" means that children need to be educated only in the home and not by the public school systems.

Now, the idea to only have your children date Christians or only be around those that are the opposite sex is not a problem in itself and yet we are also commanded to go into the world and preach the gospel, which means being around non-Christians is necessary. Thus, if one command leads to breaking another command, then there is a problem. 

And so, what Jesus does is more clearly offer an example of that which he is speaking, namely, the exalting of tradition. For Moses said, ‘Honor your father and your mother’; and, ‘He who speaks evil of father or mother, is to be put to death’; but you say, ‘If a man says to his father or his mother, whatever I have that would help you is Corban (that is to say, given to God),’ you no longer permit him to do anything for his father or his mother; thus invalidating the word of God by your tradition which you have handed down; and you do many things such as that.”

The Corban rule was a practice of deferred giving. One could often simply say the word Corban and it inferred that something had been pledged to the temple or church. It allowed individuals to deed property or other gifts, then after they die, they become the property of the church. This is not a bad thing and speaks to the idea that when we die, we should be transferring our possessions to be used by the next generation. But the concern that Jesus brings up is that some people were neglecting their responsibilities to elders, their own father or mother. It was commonly understood that just as parents take care of their children, children take care of their parents later in life. Perhaps these parents had a monetary need or a need of property, but rather than caring for the parents and providing them what they need, they believe that since they have previously identified a material possession as Corban then it was obligated already. It was holding on to one law at the expense of another obligation.

I think church people have a tendency to do this, perhaps in more simplistic ways, feeling like they must hold to one obligation, like attending church, when maybe there is a person in need that they could minister to, but they don't, because they feel they must get to church. And do we also hold onto our possessions, for a rainy day, saving riches that we have purchased and set aside, rather than helping someone out now that needs it. We get obsessed with our personal retirements and protecting ourselves in the future when there are people with real needs that we could help now. Thus, we elevate our own personal needs or personal obligations over real needs the Spirit could be drawing us towards. 

Summary - Jesus is confronting the Pharisees. While they are concerned Jesus is neglecting their traditions, Jesus is concerned with their heart and why they are doing what they are doing. Is it really motivated toward God and the things of faith or do we get sidetracked on doing things for God that we neglect the people God has placed in our lives? Do we get obsessed with ensuring that are right with God that we then neglect people?

Promise: We too can be obsessed with good but optional things (like giving extra gifts to the temple) in a a way makes us break God's law, shifting our priorities from only to God to remembering its about God and the people he has placed in our lives.

Prayer: O Lord, my Lord, my King, the Only One. I do want to honor You. Help me to not sacrifice people that you have placed in my life because I somehow think that it is more important to worship You because I am concerned that if I don't then you will reject me. I need to listen to Your Spirit in my life at all times, being sensitive to areas that you have called me, being sensitive to the people that you have placed in my life. Help me Lord. I need your help and strength and leading.

Proverbs 11:21 - The Certainty of Deliverance

Proverbs 11:21
Assuredly, the evil man will not go unpunished,
But the descendants of the righteous will be delivered.

Message: The Certainty of Deliverance

Time: King Solomon is the principal writer of Proverbs. Solomon's proverbs were penned around 900 B.C. In the Book of Proverbs, Solomon reveals the mind of God in matters high and lofty and in common, ordinary, everyday situations, too. It appears that no topic escaped King Solomon's attention. Matters pertaining to personal conduct, sexual relations, business, wealth, charity, ambition, discipline, debt, child-rearing, character, alcohol, politics, revenge, and godliness are among the many topics covered in this rich collection of wise sayings.

What the Lord is Saying:

The Contrast
As in many Proverbs, this verse presents a contrast. Here it speaks of the evil man and the descendants of the righteous. And then it also contrasts their two outcomes: not going unpunished contrasted with being delivered. The outcomes presented here of punishment and deliverance are outcomes we are all trying to avoid and receive, respectively.

Evil Outcomes
To me, the hallmark belief of the Bible is just this here and that is principally evil will be punished. I think this is one of the primary principals of the Bible that is chiefly being assaulted today. One of the big ways this is being done is what is defined as evil is being diminished or lessened. Conversely, what is called punishment is also being diminished.

I love old shows. One reason I love old shows is they generally are absent of vulgar thoughts and living in the shows and the tenets of what I would subscribe to in my life are often not as apparent. Sure, there still may be adultery or murder present but it is not explicitly shown. And bad language and cursing God's name is generally completely absent. And often there is a cord of faith in most movies because the country at large had a backdrop of faith even if they may not have really had their heart into it. So overall, I like these old shows and movies for those reasons.

Regarding this verse, I think of cop shows like Adam-12 and Dragnet. Adam-12 followed the lives of 2 officers, throughout their day as they encountered offenses that occurred in society. Offenses that were present were stealing TV's, revenge, domestic disturbances, investigating noise complaints, settling a dispute between arguing neighbors, arresting drug abusers (not dealers, but users). I guess my sense is many of these types of situations don't get dealt with by police today. But, also we in society may not even call these serious offenses. Much of the focus is what we term serious offenses now.

I think most people today would agree with this verse completely in that evil should be punished, but I also think that what they call evil today is way different from 50 years ago. TV shows, Movies, and the media have worked to redefine what is evil in society. And so the belief in society is punishment will not come to many because evil is not as prevalent in society as Scripture would make us to believe.

Deliverance
The contrast to the evil outcomes of evil choices and people and acts is the deliverance that comes from the descendants of the righteous. Now, this is different because it doesn't say the righteous, but rather the descendants. Could it be that there is power in living a righteous life; that living a righteous life yields dividends beyond the current generation? Perhaps this is the importance of living in a righteous manner. And yet it is possible the seed or descendant is more line with the children of God that we are called, those that have trusted Jesus as Savior and depend on his righteousness. We know we are not righteous without Christ. He is complete righteousness, so rather than this saying that this is a promise to my children, maybe rather what it is is a promise to those that have surrendered their lives to the Lord and accepting his riches.

The deliverance we have received is being in Christ and the peace that comes from this. We have peace in Christ that will last forever, for eternity. Those that keep the commandments of God; and have the testimony of Jesus Christ, we were delivered from the outcome that is deserved. We deserve punishment and to be separated from God, but through Christ we have been redeemed and we have been delivered.

Again, this is a message so contrary to the message that we hear in our world today. What is preached is human effort and outcomes from what we have done. The need to even be delivered has been replaced by the idea that we are all self-dependent. I don't need God when I have lots of savings in my back account. I don't need God when I can clearly see the result of my hard work and good decisions. I have much so I pray little. There is such a danger in riches or having things because it so easily makes me think that I can do it on my own, without God. It's the same lie that was presented to Adam and Eve. The serpent gave the idea that nothing really bad will come from breaking God's commandments. And even better we need to change God's rules into rights.

Promise: This is the essence of this verse - it isn't necessarily talking of immediate punishment or immediate deliverance, but these are final outcomes.

Prayer: Lord, thank you for the clarity of this verse. Thank you for your great love for me and for saving me. Lord, keep me centered on You. Keep me focused on the great need in the cross. Help me to not be self-dependent and self-sufficient. I pray to remain urgent for truth, for deliverance. I thank you for your patience and allowing so many the opportunity for salvation by giving them time.

Proverbs 26:11-12 - Fools and Their Folly

Proverbs 26:11-12

¹¹ Like a dog that returns to its vomit
Is a fool who repeats his folly.
¹² Do you see a man wise in his own eyes?
There is more hope for a fool than for him.

Message: Fools and Their Folly

Time: It seems that Proverbs was written and then compiled sometime between the tenth and sixth centuries B.C. Proverbs was probably written during the reign of Solomon, 971-931 B.C.

What the Lord is Saying: The imagery that is used in verse 11 is compelling especially considering the time when it was written. Dogs were considered an unclean animal at the time, not the cute companion animals they are today. When one is sick, they vomit and no one wants to ever return to vomiting. It is something that we have no desire to go back and do again. The fool is thus compared to one that is unclean returning to something that is unclean. The problem then with a fool is he doesn't recognize that his behavior is wrong and so he returns to it again. What's tragic is we are training a generation of fools because we are training people over and over to have no knowledge of what is right and wrong. Many therefore are returning to behavior that is foolish, but now society is going it normal behavior. But more directly this verse is focused on the person who is unwilling to receive any correction and prefers to repeat the same behavior over and over.

The fool is then, in verse 12, likened to one that is wise in his own eyes (as also mentioned in Proverbs 3:7).  This is on the heels of verse 11 and the notion to stay clear of one who is unwilling to receive any correction. Thus, a person that is wise in their own eyes. This means they are unwilling to take any direction from anyone else, like God, or the advice of anyone else. Wisdom is to trust in God. Folly is to not trust in God, thus trust only in self. Jesus came to call sinners. The turning point of any person is recognizing that in themselves they are a sinner. But, most are unwilling to see their sin or to see that it is serious.

Promise: Let us pray for ourselves that we would not repeat our folly.

Prayer: Lord, I pray that I am teachable and not stubborn in what I know, especially as I get older. I'm 49 now and concerned that as I get older, I get that feeling more and more that I am right and am not as teachable, but keep molding me and shaping me as you are the potter and I am the clay. And help my family to be responsive in the same way to being taught.

Jesus Calling: December 10

Make Me the focal point of your search for security. In your private thoughts, you are still trying to order your world so that it is predictable and feels safe. Not only is this an impossible goal, but it is also counterproductive to spiritual growth. When your private world feels unsteady and you grip My hand for support, you are living in conscious dependence on Me.
     Instead of yearning for a problem-free life, rejoice that trouble can highlight your awareness of My Presence. In the darkness of adversity, you are able to see more clearly the radiance of My Face. Accept the value of problems in this life, considering them pure joy. Remember that you have an eternity of trouble-free living awaiting you in heaven. 

Isaiah 41:10
English Standard Version
fear not, for I am with you;
    be not dismayed, for I am your God;
I will strengthen you, I will help you,
    I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
 
Psalm 139:10
English Standard Version
even there your hand shall lead me,
    and your right hand shall hold me.
 
James 1:2
English Standard Version
Count it all joy, my brothers,when you meet trials of various kinds. 

My Prayer
Lord, continue to take hold of my captive thoughts and retrain me throughout my day and life to allow you to work through me. I get too trained by the media of this world, impregnated to be a friend of the world and its ways. Help me to be trained by you God and accept whatever comes my way, even if it seems difficult to me. Keep eternity in my heart. You are my God. I do not need to fear. You will strengthen me and uphold my righteous right hand. Your right hand shall hold me.


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Note: The devotion and scriptures are from author Sarah Young. If you haven't already, please purchase the book and support the author.

Also, bookmark https://bibletags.blogspot.com/2019/06/jesus-calling-366-days.html to have an easy link to the entire year of these entries.

Jesus Calling: November 4

Walk peacefully with Me through this day. You are wondering how you will cope with all that is expected of you. You must traverse this day like any other; one step at a time. Instead of mentally rehearsing how you will do this or that, keep your mind on My Presence and on taking the next step. The more demanding your day, the more help you can expect from Me. This is a training opportunity, since I designed you for deep dependence on your Shepherd-King. Challenging times wake you up and amplify your awareness of needing My help.
     When you don't know what to do, wait while I open the way before you. Trust that I know what I'm doing, and be ready to follow My lead.  I will give strength to you, and I will bless you with Peace. 

Exodus 33:14
English Standard Version
And he said, “My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.”

Deuteronomy 33:29
English Standard Version
Happy are you, O Israel! Who is like you,
a people saved by the Lord,
the shield of your help,
and the sword of your triumph!
Your enemies shall come fawning to you,
and you shall tread upon their backs.”

Hebrews 13:20-21
English Standard Version
20 Now may the God of peace who brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, the great shepherd of the sheep, by the blood of the eternal covenant, 21 equip you with everything good that you may do his will, working in us that which is pleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen.

Psalm 29:11
English Standard Version
May the Lord give strength to his people!
May the Lord bless his people with peace!

My Prayer

Lord, it feels like, life, trains us at times to resist problems. We are trained to not deal with any difficult circumstances, but instead to remain in a state of ease, comfort, and being entertained. Lord, your Word tells us to count it joy when we encounter various trials. Lord, I want to be trained by you to respond to adversities in a way that honors You. As I do this, I'm sure I will stand out and you will get the glory. You have told me that your presence will go with me and you will give me rest. You will give me rest in the midst of struggles. You will give me peace. You will give me strength. You can keep me happy even as a traverse through struggles. Train me God, O train me. Thank you God.


Note: The devotion and scriptures are from author Sarah Young. If you haven't already, please purchase the book and support the author.

Also, bookmark https://bibletags.blogspot.com/2019/06/jesus-calling-366-days.html to have an easy link to the entire year of these entries.

Jesus Calling: November 1

Do not be discouraged by the difficulty of keeping your focus on Me. I know that your heart's desire is to be aware of My Presence continually. This is a lofty goal; you aim toward it but never fully achieve it in this life. Don't let feelings of failure weigh you down. Instead, try to see yourself as I see you. First of all, I am delighted by your deep desire to walk closely with Me through your life. I am pleased each time you initiate communication with Me. In addition, I notice the progress you have made since you first resolved to live in My Presence.
     When you realize that your mind has wandered away from Me, don't be alarmed or surprised. You live in a world that has been rigged to distract you. Each time you plow your way through the massive distractions to communicate with Me, you achieve a victory. Rejoice in these tiny triumphs, and they will increasingly light up your days. 

Romans 8:33-34
English Standard Version
³³ Who shall bring any charge against God's elect? It is God who justifies. ³⁴ Who is to condemn? Christ Jesus is the one who died—more than that, who was raised—who is at the right hand of God, who indeed is interceding for us.

Hebrews 4:14-16
English Standard Version
¹⁴ Since then we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. ¹⁵ For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. ¹⁶ Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.

My Prayer
Father, the world trains me to not focus on You. How I need your love forever. Help me to begin each day with you, so my perspective for the day begins on You. And then throughout the day help me to surrender to you and make wise choices.  

Note: The devotion and scriptures are from author Sarah Young. If you haven't already, please purchase the book and support the author.


Also, bookmark https://bibletags.blogspot.com/2019/06/jesus-calling-366-days.html to have an easy link to the entire year of these entries.

Proverbs 20:30 - Discipline's Cleansing Rod

Proverbs 20:30
Stripes that wound scour away evil, and strokes reach the innermost parts.

Message: Discipline's Cleansing Rod

Time: It seems that Proverbs was written and then compiled sometime between the tenth and sixth centuries B.C. Proverbs was probably written during the reign of Solomon, 971-931 B.C.

What the Lord is Saying: 

Oh, the cleansing rod. This is a tough one as we learn that physical discipline is an act of love. There are lessons, as TableTalk says, that very young children will not learn without a spanking. The rod was something introduced in the Growing Kids God's Way curriculum we went through. We adopted it but probably used it too often out of exasperation rather than proper loving discipline. I think over the years it was a bad thing. I think it is one of the reasons Megan is in the condition she is today. She hasn't discovered this yet, but she has always really struggled with being corrected. She had a defensive mechanism that is stronger than others. Tyson and Derek dealt with it. Derek eventually threw the device we used away as we were told to not use our hand, so we nicknamed it the TLC, but we rarely prayed with the kids and Megan always wanted to make sure things were okay afterwards. I just don't think we did a good job recognizing Megan's plight and situation as her disobedience was at a stronger level. We know it now, but back then I was too caught up in correcting foolish behavior and yet for her it was more of her makeup of wanting to do what she thought was best. And now Derek is displaying himself in the same way. He wants to be in charge. He has this makeup about him that he wants to make the decision for his life. He's just been a more quiet strong willed kid. He at least talks to us, but he is getting to be more mischievous. So, this verse has history with me and us.

The message from TableTalk again says that physical discipline, though outward, hopefully effects inward change. That is what we are after here and yet our kids so far have not displayed this. Tyson bugs me by continually getting TV shows through illegal means because he thinks its okay because we don't have cable and his entertainment will not be compromised. It's this generation. We've tried to talk about it and that Challies book study we tried to do with T/Jordan one time was this desire, but he don't care for now. He knows its wrong, but he justifies the behavior and in this world of instant gratification with Youtube and the like, it is hard to discern what is right and wrong regarding viewing shows or listening to music. What is stealing, really?

As TableTalk says, physical punishment is no guarantee that the heart will be changed. Yes, from that standpoint, not sure what we didn't do right.

The bottom line is, with this passage, we need to be careful and look at what physical pain is teaching us. As we age and have ailments or tough situations, physical pain can occur more often. Maybe it is teaching us something. Like, is my hurt left foot pain teaching me something?

Promise: The rod can drive out the foolishness which is bound up in the heart. Look at the pain and see if there is a lesson there for inward change.

Promise:

Jesus Calling: August 8

I speak to you from deepest heaven. You hear Me in the depths of your being. Deep calls unto deep. You are blessed to hear Me so directly. Never take this privilege for granted. The best response is a heart overflowing with gratitude. I am training you to cultivate a thankful mind-set. This is like building your house on a firm rock, where life's storms cannot shake you. As you learn these lessons, you are to teach them to others. I will open up the way before you, one step at a time.

Psalm 42:7
New King James Version

Deep calls unto deep at the noise of Your waterfalls;
All Your waves and billows have gone over me.

Verse Thoughts

The Psalmist writes this verse in the context of discouragement. Perhaps the psalmist saw or thought of a waterfall. He saw how the water plunged down into a deep pool at the base of the waterfall and thought, “I feel that deeply buried under my misery.” F.B. Meyer (1847-1929 - baptist pastor and inner city mission worker on both sides of Atlantic) thought of this as the depths of God answering to the depths of human need. “Whatever depths there are in God, they appeal to corresponding depths in us. And whatever the depths of our sorrow, desire, or necessity, there are correspondences in God from which full supplies may be obtained.”
Psalm 95:1-2
English Standard Version

¹ Oh come, let us sing to the Lord;
    let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation!
² Let us come into his presence with thanksgiving;
    let us make a joyful noise to him with songs of praise!

Matthew 7:24-25
English Standard Version

²⁴ “Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock. ²⁵ And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house, but it did not fall, because it had been founded on the rock.

My Prayer
Lord, I am meant to be contagious to others. You are teaching and training me not only for my great benefit, but so that others can be encouraged by Your Presence in me. Specifically, may they see a person that is thankful at all times. May they see a person with gratitude. The world in which we live in is burdened, trained often by the world to be discontent, but Lord you are training me to always be able to make a joyful noise to the rock of my salvation, to God with songs of praise and thanksgiving. Lord, I want to be that house that stands firm on the foundation, knowing that You supply my needs.  

Note: The devotion and scriptures are from author Sarah Young. If you haven't already, please purchase the book and support the author. 


Also, bookmark https://bibletags.blogspot.com/2019/06/jesus-calling-366-days.html to have an easy link to the entire year of these entries.

Jesus Calling: June 5

Remember that you live in a fallen world: an abnormal world tainted by sin. Much frustration and failure result from your seeking perfection in this life. There is nothing perfect in this world except Me. That is why closeness to Me satisfies deep yearnings and fills you with Joy.
     I have planted longing for perfection in every human heart. This is a good desire, which I alone can fulfill. But most people seek this fulfillment in other people and earthly pleasures or achievements. Thus they create idols, before which they bow down. I will have no other gods before Me!  Make Me the deepest desire of your heart. Let Me fulfill your yearning for perfection. 

Exodus 20:3
English Standard Version

You shall have no other gods before me.

Psalm 27:4
English Standard Version

One thing have I asked of the Lord,
that will I seek after:
that I may dwell in the house of the Lord
all the days of my life,
to gaze upon the beauty of the Lord
and to inquire in his temple.

My Prayer
(2015) Lord, I need to be trained by You. Help me to not look inward or outward to world for success, but I want to find my fulfillment in You. Keep me close to You even during trials and tribulations. I do not want to be guided by human wisdom, but only through the wisdom of the Lord. Train me daily for Godliness.
(2019) Lord, the closer I get to you or the more time I spend with you, the more I see my awful sin. I am embarrassed by the idolatry in my life: how I find refuge in a TV, movie; worth in my job; peace in a nice house and nice cars; fulfillment in getting to go on a long vacation; satisfaction in watching my children succeed; piety by having many people post on my blog. Lord, purify me and may my dependence be only on You. I so want to seek after You and dwell in the house of the Lord. Thank you for providing good and wholesome shows to watch on TV for me to find rest in, for providing a job that I can enjoy and help provide for my family, for providing me with great neighbors and a house that can bless many, for providing opportunities to see your creation and other friends and family living in other cities and for the joy in seeing how you have gifted my children. Lord, when I spend time with You, in your word, and reading devotions like this written by people you have spoken to, I am lifted up and encouraged and I'm amazed that my thoughts can encourage others. To God be the Glory.

Note: The devotion and scriptures are from author Sarah Young. If you haven't already, please purchase the book and support the author.

Also, bookmark https://bibletags.blogspot.com/2019/06/jesus-calling-366-days.html to have an easy link to the entire year of these entries.

Jesus Calling: May 7

     If you learn to trust Me--really trust Me--with your whole being, then nothing can separate you from My Peace. Everything you endure can be put to good use by allowing it to train you in trusting Me. This is how you foil the works of evil, growing in grace through the very adversity that was meant to harm you. Joseph was a prime example of this divine reversal, declaring to his brothers: "You meant evil against me, but God meant it for good." 
     Do not fear what this day, or any day, may bring your way. Concentrate on trusting Me and on doing what needs to be done. Relax in My sovereignty, remembering that I go before you, as well as with you, into each day. Fear no evil, for I can bring good out of every situation you will ever encounter. 

Genesis 50:20
New American Standard

As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive, as they are today.

Verse thoughts
From the Reformation Study Bible - Joseph's wise statement here is a classic statement of God’s sovereign overruling of human history to accomplish His gracious purposes

Psalm 23:4
English Standard Version

Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
    I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
    your rod and your staff,
    they comfort me.

Verse thoughts
From MacArthur's Study Bible - The value of the shadow of death is phraseology used to convey a perilously threatening environment. Your rod and your staff as the shepherd's club and crook are viewed as comforting instruments of protection and direction, respectively. 

My Prayer (2018) - Wow God, for me to not fear evil is difficult. I read these words, even memorize them, and yet applying in my daily life is a chore. I admit I am often too short-sighted to understand the good that you may have in store for me because of an evil circumstance. When evil comes my way like even someone wronging me or pushing some evil agenda on me, too often my first response is to slander the person, exclaim 'why is this happening to me', share the offense with other people in my life so they will agree with me, but seeking refuge in You, Lord, I don't do this like I should. But, Lord, how I do want to trust You, rest in You, wait patiently for You. Change me God. Change me. 

Note: The devotion and scriptures are from author Sarah Young. If you haven't already, please purchase the book and support the author. 

Also, bookmark https://bibletags.blogspot.com/2019/06/jesus-calling-366-days.html to have an easy link to the entire year of these entries.

Jesus Calling: April 30

     When some basic need is lacking--time, energy, money--consider yourself blessed. Your very lack is an opportunity to latch onto Me in unashamed dependence. When you begin a day with inadequate resources, you must concentrate your efforts on the present moment. This is where you are meant to live--in the present; it is the place where I always await you. Awareness of your inadequacy is a rich blessing, training you to rely wholeheartedly on Me.
     The truth is that self-sufficiency is a myth perpetuated by pride and temporary success. Health and wealth can disappear instantly, as can life itself. Rejoice in your insufficiency, knowing that My Power is made perfect in weakness. 

James 1:2
English Standard Version
Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds,

2 Corinthians 12:9
New American Standard
And He has said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness.” Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me.

My Prayer
Lord, You know me. You know me better than I know myself. And what you know about me would greatly embarrass me before others. You know my failures, my secret thoughts, everything about me. You know how hard I work many times to present myself before others as this person who looks good and plays the part and is highly esteemed and yet You know the real me. And that is the person that you love. I align myself so often with those that are strong or who exhibit strength and you accept me in my weakness. And in that weakness you make me strong. And what I need to be is that real person. I don't deserve you God. Your grace amazes me. I could never repay you and you don't even want me to try. Thank You for dwelling in me, for taking up residence in me. O God I thank you.

Note: The devotion and scriptures are from author Sarah Young. If you haven't already, please purchase the book and support the author.     

Also, bookmark https://bibletags.blogspot.com/2019/06/jesus-calling-366-days.html to have an easy link to the entire year of these entries.

Jesus Calling: April 17

     I am training you in steadiness. Too many things interrupt your awareness of Me. I know that you live in a world of sight and sound, but you must not be a slave to those stimuli. Awareness of Me can continue in all circumstances, not matter what happens. This is the steadiness I desire for you.
     Don't let unexpected events throw you off course. Rather, respond calmly and confidently, remembering that I am with you. As soon as something grabs your attention, talk with Me about it. Thus I share your joys and your problems; I help you cope with whatever is before you. This is how I live in you and work through you. This is the way of Peace. 

Psalm 112:7 
English Standard Version
He is not afraid of bad news;
    his heart is firm, trusting in the Lord.

Isaiah 41:10
New King James Version
Fear not, for I am with you;
Be not dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you,
Yes, I will help you,
I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.’

My Prayer
Lord, this reminds me once again of the importance of talking to you about all the events of my life. Your disciples and followers did this while you walked the earth. When they didn't understand something, they asked you. I need to do this instead of running off and figuring it out on my own or seeking after other people for answers.  As the Psalm says, you are not afraid of bad news or anything I bring to you. You will strengthen me and help me and uphold me by Your righteous right hand. 


Note: The devotion and scriptures are from author Sarah Young. If you haven't already, please purchase the book and support the author.

Also, bookmark https://bibletags.blogspot.com/2019/06/jesus-calling-366-days.html to have an easy link to the entire year of these entries.

Romans 1:19-21 - The Primal Sin of Humanity

Romans 1:19-21 - 19 because that which is known about God is evident within them; for God made it evident to them. 20 For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood through what has been made, so that they are without excuse. 21 For even though they knew God, they did not honor Him as God or give thanks, but they became futile in their speculations, and their foolish heart was darkened.

Message: The Primal Sin of Humanity - not giving thanks to the God that made creation and man.

Time: Written sometime in AD 57-58, probably from Corinth, at the end of Paul's third missionary journey.

What the Lord is Saying:

The words here are a continuation of verse 18 which mentioned how the wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against ungodliness, unrighteousness and those who suppress the truth of God in their life. And verse 19, as is Paul's custom in writing, further clarifies what he has said previously. The subject is people who suppress the truth of God in their life. Paul makes it clear they are suppressing something that God has made clear within man.

These words are so key because as I talk to people about the truth of God, it isn't a foreign subject matter. I am simply awakening subjects that are already in them. On the contrary, I often think that I must try hard to show people Christ and yet these verses speak to the fact that God is self-evident in our world.

The entire reason that I think the Way of the Master witnessing technique is so true and correct is it appeals to the conscience of man. It confirms verse 19 in that people have a conscience and they have a knowledge of right and wrong. But, the problem is often that though they  know right and wrong they have suppressed God's real power and so they don't think their sin is that serious. Yes God forgives sin, but if a person just holds onto the act of forgiveness, and doesn't examine the sin in their life continually then the request for forgiveness is just a mantra in the person's life with no real meaning. [Also, over time people often think life is just a continual progression of improvement. And because we see improvement in our lives and the way we live them, we start to think that self-improvement equals God's acceptance and so our good deeds or works brings about God's acceptance.] 

I've always loved verse 20 because when I am outside and looking at the mountains and the tree's and hiking and seeing animals and how they are made, I am reminded of God and the clarity of His creation.

This explains the integrity of my God. He has integrity in that He clearly has made Himself known to all people. A beautiful sunset, the birth of a child, a banana or piece of fruit, a beautiful sunrise, the green green grass, the mountain -- if anyone looks at these things and then says, "there is no God" then they are denying God for these things testify of God being there. 

In verse 21, people knew God. He is evident through the creation. But, they didn't honor Him as God or give thanks for what He had provided, but instead they sought ways to show that it couldn't be God that authored all of creation and in so doing, there foolish heart was darkened. The notion of training comes up here. People train themselves over time to ignore God and figure out answers that are not God. And so their heart becomes darkened. 

Per Wayne Barber, the word futile means empty or unable in their speculations, in their reasoning. They are unable to think straight. Verse 21 is so clear that it didn't have to be this way, but they became futile. The atheists message right now is that it, God and His Gospel, simply couldn't be right. God, and who He is, over time, is being pushed out. The name of God is more and more not revered, but instead is just a way to express amazement or bewilderment in a person (i.e. OMG). God has been pushed out of our schools to the point that the mere mention of Him is deemed improper. God has been pushed out of people's lives for years. In my lifetime I can see how this has occurred, but it has been occurring for a long time.

John 8:44 states that the devil is a liar and the father of lies. It is the devil's goal to preach lies. Even those who claim faith have distorted God. Outside, there is a rise in changing God with the Jehovah Witnesses and Latter Day Saints. Within the church, there is a proclamation of easy belief.

At the most rudimentary level, sin is being recast. It is being redefined. The church is rightfully seeing the promulgation of homosexuality, but before that, the marriage union was being defiled as divorce was more and more prominent and adultery justified. The church often works so hard to tell the world they are corrupt, while ignoring those within the church that are walking in the doors. People are showing up in church needing the truth of God and yet are simply seeing an "us" against "them" mentality. It is sports of a different kind. We need to protect the Body of Christ from the lies of the devil. We are so lofty in our explanations of scripture that we are missing the most basic tenets of it. 

Promise: The knowledge of God and His creation is born into man. Man this pushes God out through life, but God will always reign.

Jesus Calling: March 31

    Taste and see that I am good. The more intimately you experience Me, the more convinced you become of My goodness. I am the Living One who sees you and longs to participate in your life. I am training you to find Me in each moment and to be a channel of My loving Presence. Sometimes My blessings come to you in mysterious ways: through pain and trouble. At such times you can know My goodness only through your trust in Me. Understanding will fail you, but trust will keep you close to Me.

    Thank Me for the gift of My Peace, a gift of such immense proportions that you cannot fathom its depth or breadth. When I appeared to My disciples after the resurrection, it was Peace that I communicated first of all. I knew this was their deepest need: to calm their fears and clear their minds. I also speak Peace to you, for I know your anxious thoughts. Listen to Me! Tune out other voices, so that you can hear Me more clearly. I designed you to dwell in Peace all day, every day. Draw near to Me; receive My Peace. 

Psalm 34:8
English Standard Version (ESV) 
Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good!
Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him!

Genesis 16:13-14
Amplified Bible (AMP)
So she called the name of the Lord who spoke to her, You are a God of seeing, for she said, Have I [not] even here [in the wilderness] looked upon Him who sees me [and lived]? Or have I here also seen [the future purposes or designs of] Him who sees me? Therefore the well was called Beer-lahai-roi [A well to the Living One Who sees me]; it is between Kadesh and Bered.

John 20:19
English Standard Version (ESV)
On the evening of that day, the first day of the week, the doors being locked where the disciples were for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said to them, “Peace be with you.”

Colossians 3:15
English Standard Version (ESV) 
And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful.

Thoughts - "Taste and see." "Intimately...experience Me." What does this mean? What does this look like? In my opinion, it is simple. I taste and see him by walking through His word and thinking about how He speaks to me. I taste and see him by listening to the creatures, the birds, the people in my life, the ocean, the trees; his creation sends out its voices and I can taste and see him by listening to what he has created. God is training me "to find Him in each moment." God is relevant in every area of my life or he should be. I should acknowledge him everywhere and if I don't, then maybe something is wrong. Maybe there are times I am not doing something that honors Him.

My prayer
Lord, help me to see you and acknowledge you throughout my day. Thank you for the peace that you give. You have settled me down. I so desire to rest in you and be defined by you instead of the craziness of my life. I surrender to You. Help me to accept what you provide.

Note: The devotion and scriptures are from author Sarah Young. If you haven't already, please purchase the book and support the author.

Ezekiel 19

Message: Something about the root and its offspring, perhaps training.

Time: A lamentation is given.

What the Lord is Saying: Your mother, a lioness is raising her cubs.

One cub became a lion, learning to catch prey. Nations heard and caught him in their pit, bringing him in hooks to Egypt.

The mother raises another cub to be a young lion. He catches prey as well, seizes widows, the land is appalled an seizes him. He is brought in a cage to the king of Babylon.

The mother is like a vine in vineyard. Its shoots are strong, but is cast away.

Problem: Training is significant in our lives.