Proverbs 10:28 - Only Today

Proverbs 10:28

The hope of the righteous is gladness,

But the expectation of the wicked perishes.

Message: Only Today

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: Hope - righteous - glad vs expectation - wicked - perish. First thoughts -- hope is more of a sure thing than simply an expectation. Hope has more of a certainty about it while an expectation is less certain. Yet, overall I see again the natural comparison of the righteous and wicked person in this chapter that has been so prevalent throughout the chapter. The writer is extolling and raising up over and over the outcome of being a righteous person. It is a favorable position. Over and over the idea is to not only do the right thing, but be the right sort of person. To be righteous is not only to have high morals, but it is to live according to standards and the Christian is to live their life under the guidance of the Holy Spirit as He directs us daily to live in a way that honors God. 

The Contemporary English Version says there is no future for the wicked. I think that is the overriding point. The wicked person only has today. The righteous person has tomorrow and the day after. The atheist only has today while those that are walking with God have hope for tomorrow. 

One thing to think about here is the wicked person's future is futile because we live under the paradigm of righteousness and Godliness. Under that worldview, there is no hope for the wicked for they only have wrath to look forward to in the future. There is no happy after life. There is only separation from God in hell. To say that it perishes means it amounts to nothing. 

God also is preparing a place for us in the future (John 14:2-3) and so this is why our future has hope.

Prayer: O God, thank you for the future and for having my future in mind. I realize in this day and age, all the messages are only about today and making today priority one. Keep me attuned to Your message and Your word Lord in focusing on tomorrow and my future. Thank you for that peace and I pray more would understand and accept the peace that You have for them.  

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

John 18:32-36 - Christ's Otherworldly Kingdom

John 18:32-36 

32 to fulfill the word of Jesus which He spoke, signifying by what kind of death He was about to die.

33 Therefore Pilate entered again into the Praetorium, and summoned Jesus and said to Him, “Are You the King of the Jews?” 34 Jesus answered, “Are you saying this on your own initiative, or did others tell you about Me?” 35 Pilate answered, “I am not a Jew, am I? Your own nation and the chief priests delivered You to me; what have You done?” 36 Jesus answered, “My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, then My servants would be fighting so that I would not be handed over to the Jews; but as it is, My kingdom is not of this realm.”

Message: Chris's Otherworldly Kingdom

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: Context - In general, Pontius Pilate only intervened in matters with the Jews if that matter affected the Roman Empire and its control of the Holy Land. The Jews claim was Jesus had blasphemed (Matthew 26:65-66); in general something that Pilate would not intervene. But the high priests took it to closer to a Roman intervention by claiming incorrectly Jesus taught people to disobey Caesar claiming to be king of the Jews (Luke 23:1-2). Today's passage does not clearly mention this in verse 33 and Jesus's response in 34, but Jesus doesn't deny it, simply asks Pilate to defend the accusation and to show that the Jews were attempting to manipulate the system since they knew they couldn't be the one's to crucify Jesus (18:31).  

Jesus responds in such a way as to somewhat deny the charge that He is to overthrow any present political power, which is actually not what the Jews version of the Messiah wanted in that person. They wanted the Messiah to overthrow Roman authority and help them as a people be independent. So sort of ironic, what they wanted in a Messiah they actually accused Jesus of doing to get to be crucified. 

Jesus says in verse 36 that his kingdom which is his rein of people is not of this world. He remarks that people that believe in Him therefore are a people ultimately not of this world. Believers are part of a heavenly kingdom once they believe or an eternal kingdom. And as such his people are not fighting because people understand the kingdom He is ushering is not of this world. I had someone ask me about this recently, to describe the two sets of the people - the visitors or Christians not of this world and those of the world. A stark reminder that there are those that are of this world. James mentions these individuals (James 4:4) and Jesus refers to people that will not hear him (John 8:47). I make mention this as there are many faiths and beliefs that might think that all are going to heaven but in reality Jesus makes mention as does the Bible that not everyone will enter the kingdom. 

Other verses:

Daniel 2:44-45 when Daniel came forward to give an interpretation of a dream of Nebuchadnezzar he remarked first that Nebuchadnezzar was one God had established to be king and rule over all (Daniel 2:37-38) but his reign is not eternal and one day a new kingdom, an eternal kingdom will be established, "44 In the days of those kings the God of heaven will set up a kingdom which will never be destroyed, and that kingdom will not be left for another people; it will crush and put an end to all these kingdoms, but it will itself endure forever. 45 Inasmuch as you saw that a stone was cut out of the mountain without hands and that it crushed the iron, the bronze, the clay, the silver and the gold, the great God has made known to the king what will take place in the future; so the dream is true and its interpretation is trustworthy.” O God, you are good and your ways our eternal, you grant people to reign in our present lives, but ultimately you have an eternal kingdom that will never be destroyed. 

Revelation 11:15, "Then the seventh angel sounded; and there were loud voices in heaven, saying,

“The kingdom of the world has become [the kingdom] of our Lord and of His Christ; and He will reign forever and ever.”

Summary: Jesus responds to his accusers, spoken from Pilate, that His kingdom is not of this world and He is not here to overthrow a government. 

Promise: Jesus' kingdom while not of this world, with it being eternal, still includes this world. 

Prayer: Lord, thank you bringing meaning to this text. As I first opened it several days ago, I did not see the value in that I see today. Sometimes Lord it takes me some time to have a text rest in me until I find that Your Spirit speaks to me or wakes me up to it. Today is Sunday and I do thank you for this day as my mind is clear and focused so much more on You, resting from the obligations that make up the other 6 days of the week and so at this time I can take time to seek You and learn from You. Thank you for this text and reminding me of the words that I am not of this world, but You have sealed me forever with You in heaven. This is all for your glory. Lord, impress this upon me more. Give me more of a sense of the need to speak to those that need to hear. 

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

John 16:29-32 - Jesus Predicts His Desertion

John 16:29-32

29 His disciples said, "Lo, now You are speaking plainly, and are not using a figure of speech. 30 Now we know that You know all things, and have no need for anyone to question You; by this we believe that You came from God." 31 Jesus answered them, "Do you now believe? 32 Behold, an hour is coming, and has already come, for you to be scattered, each to his own home, and to leave Me alone; and [yet] I am not alone, because the Father is with Me." 

Message: Jesus Predicts His Desertion

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: Upon the heels of Jesus communicating to his disciples that he hasn't been speaking plainly, using figurative language (v. 25), but this will change upon His glorification (13:31) and repeating also that He comes from the Father (v. 28), now the disciples understand. They haven't previously, but now they state they understand. They haven't been getting it up to this point, but they seem to be stating they get it now. 

But Jesus doesn't completely think they do. He offers words in verse 31 I think that in a way states that their belief may still be wallowing and then offers in verse 32 that they will scatter soon. Jesus lets them know that the hour is approaching in which He will be not with them, but alone in appearance and yet the Father will be with Him as He is always. 

The scattering that Jesus mentions has a similar idea possibly to Matthew 26:31, "You will all fall away because of Me this night, for it is written, 'I WILL STRIKE DOWN THE SHEPHERD, AND THE SHEEP OF THE FLOCK SHALL BE SCATTERED.' The scattering is what Jesus is saying is a falling away or the sheep, the disciples here, will disperse (as John 21:3 speaks about). 

Even the words of Psalm 69:20, "Reproach hath broken my heart; and I am full of heaviness: and I looked for some to take pity, but there was none; and for comforters, but I found none." Jesus, among men, did not find those who gave him comfort by staying with Him, except for Peter and John who would stay close. 

Summary: The disciples state that they now believe Jesus came from God. Jesus lets them know that they will soon scatter to their own areas and He will have the Father with Him, never alone. 

Promise: We always have room to grow in our understanding of the Lord and His ways.

Prayer: Thank you Father for giving me understand and this study of Your Words. Help me to be an encouragement to others and help them see the light. And help me to be a person of faith always, not denying your ways but continuing to trust You. 

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

John 16:1-4a - The Persecution to Come

John 16:1-4a

1 “These things I have spoken to you so that you may be kept from stumbling. 2 They will make you outcasts from the synagogue, but an hour is coming for everyone who kills you to think that he is offering service to God. 3 These things they will do because they have not known the Father or Me. 4 But these things I have spoken to you, so that when their hour comes, you may remember that I told you of them.

Message: The Persecution to Come

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: Well, onto Chapter 16. I am still in the middle of Jesus' farewell discourse with Chapter 15 having more of a focus on the relationship of believers in Christ, to each other, and to the world and the promise of the Holy Spirit. Jesus continues to refer often to himself and then his position with His Father. Everything he says has a linkage to the Father to help us see that Jesus now is the Father's appointed sacrifice and from this point forward we must submit and surrender to Him, by faith. However, chapter 15 is specifically addressed to believers and so Jesus here in his message I think is speaking to believers in Christ. 

In Chapter 16 Jesus mentions that He is speaking these things in order that the disciple might be kept from stumbling. Stumbling is a reality. We hear things and we are not confident that they are always true, doubt creeps in and in the process we stumble. I think these things probably refers to the Holy Spirit and not necessarily the persecution words. 

In verse 2, Jesus says "they" in referring I think back to those who are persecuting and hating the disciples, again because of Jesus and believing in Him. Now Jesus seems to focus their minds more securely on the persecution that is coming. He mentions that those persecuting often believe they are doing God's work. The Pharisees are an example. It is tragic that much of the persecution that the church experiences is from other churches. I think there is a great tendency of competition between churches and even denominations. I think part of it simply how we are trained in society with the sports and even education and celebrating victors and not losers. In the process, people within the faith are competing against one another. I admit, at times it is an easier target and easier to think something we are better equipped in the Word of God than others. 

Now I don't think verse 3 necessarily applies to the attacks we often get within the church when it says, "These things they will do because they have not known the Father or Me." I do believe that many of these attacks are more of competition than asserting that people don't know Jesus or God as Father. But, there also attacks between faiths. 

Jesus concludes in verse 4 that the words He speaks are to be an encouragement, to provide comfort to them. But not necessarily today, but in the future, "when their hour comes." We need to tap into these promises that the Lord gives and let them remind us so that when these difficult times come we can remember He is there with us. 

Summary: Persecution is coming, within the church and outside of it; Jesus encourages us to not stumble and remember the words of comfort He continues to speak. 

Promise: We need to stand firm in God's word, remembering God's promises, so that as difficulties and persecutions happen, we will stand firm. 

Prayer: Lord, you are with us at all times and I pray we would remember better and tap into that comfort that you provide and not react to tough situations but respond appropriately, trusting You. Lord, open the eyes of the blind and even those persecuting so that they will see the evil of their ways. Mend us, your church and all of its different colors and systems. Teach us how to disagree. Teach us how to love one another in all situations. I pray that the world would not receive wrong messages about us in seeing us disagree with one another. 

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

John 13:18-20 - Receiving the One Whom Jesus Sends

John 13:18-20

18 I do not speak of all of you. I know the ones I have chosen; but it is that the Scripture may be fulfilled, "HE WHO EATS MY BREAD HAS LIFTED UP HIS HEEL AGAINST ME." 19 From now on I am telling you before it comes to pass, so that when it does occur, you may believe that I am He. 20 Truly, truly, I say to you, he who receives whomever I send receives Me; and he who receives Me receives Him who sent Me.

Message: Receiving the One Whom Jesus Sends

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: Verse 18 is a quote from Psalm 41:9 - "Even my close friend in whom I trusted, who ate my bread, has lifted up his heel against me." Jesus here once again takes a text that served one purpose in one time and now applies it to a different time. He takes the principal and applies it now to a different time. 

Tabletalk explains this well:

David complains that one of his meal companions lifted up his heel against him. In the ancient Near East, to eat a meal with someone was a sign of friendship and trust, so it was especially terrible for someone who sat at your table to betray you. David was the greatest king of ancient Israel, so the psalm indicates that his betrayal was not incompatible with his position. The same is true of Jesus. He would be betrayed, but that would not make Him any less the King. Moreover, Psalm 41 also predicts the final triumph of David over his enemies. By quoting the psalm, Jesus indicated that despite His betrayal, He would have the ultimate victory over His betrayers.

Verse 18 begins with, "I do not speak of all of you. I know the ones I have chosen." Is Jesus expressing that the previous words that he stated are not meant in application toward all people, but only for those that He has chosen? For instance, serving one another or washing one another's feet. The idea of doing as He has done for us. I mean, is he saying these actions that He is asking us to carry out need to be carried out on all people. If that is the case, then is Jesus saying how we are to treat one another in the Body or in the Kingdom but not necessarily those outside of it? 

Or is he coming back to the words only of verse 11 in which "Not all of you are clean?" Surely I am analyzing this too much and what Jesus is referencing is that there is one among them that does not take application from these words. 

And now to verse 19 - Jesus offers a statement to help them in their faith, to help it be increased, once again showing them that He has been sent by God and the words that He speaks brings comfort to them. "From now on I am telling you before it comes to pass, so that when it does occur, you may believe that I am He." Jesus explains the future. The reality is the event of Judas' betrayal has not yet occurred, so verse 18 while clear to us because of what we know of in the future is not clear to the disciples. Jesus confirms that Judas will betray Him and so He offers to the disciples this knowledge, showing them once again His knowledge of all events of time, both now and in the future. Jesus is proving Himself to the disciples. 

For verse 20 Jesus confirms that the disciples are there to be His ambassadors. There will be those that turn from Jesus but receive God and in turn receive Jesus. "whomever I (the Father) send receives Me (Jesus) and he who (disciple) receives Me (Jesus) receives Him (the Father) who sent Me (Jesus)." Judas through His betrayal injures all, not only betraying Jesus but betraying the Father and betraying the purposes of why Jesus has come and been sent by the Father, betraying the kingdom of God.

Once again, I appreciate the words of John Gill (1697-1771) here:

he that receiveth whomsoever I send, receiveth me, and he that receiveth me, receiveth him that sent me; I have sent you in my name to preach the Gospel; you are my ambassadors, and you will be honourably received by many; and which I shall regard and take notice of, and esteem, as though they had received me; even as my Father has sent me into this world, as a Saviour and Redeemer, a prophet, priest, and King; and as many as have received me, are looked upon by my Father, as having received him: in short, such as cordially receive and embrace the ministers of the Gospel, receive Christ, in whose name they come, and whom they preach; and such who receive Christ, as preached and held forth in the everlasting Gospel, receive the Father of Christ; and partake of his love, grace, and kindness, shown forth in the mission and gift of Christ to them: Christ, as Mediator, represented his Father that sent him; and the ministers of Christ represent him; so that what is done to them, either in a way of reception or rejection, he takes as done to himself: it is a common saying among the Jews (c), "that the messenger of a man is as himself". 

Summary: The betrayal of Judas was foreseen by Jesus. Let that confirm to us Jesus understanding of the future and confirm that His ambassadors who receive Jesus, receive the Father who sent Jesus. 

Promise: From Tabletalk, "Let us endeavor to receive everyone whom Christ sends to exhort us."

Prayer: Lord, all the events of your scripture here confirm You and confirm the truth of You and that You had knowledge of all events of time. For the Jew here it was important to see that connection between receiving Jesus and being sent by you Father God. Thank you for making yourself known and being this confirmation. Help me to be an ambassador for You continually and to speak Your truth to the world around me and make you known in the way I speak and act and live. I want to be your ambassador. And I want to be authentic always in the ways I live, with a desire of you being well pleased of me. I praise you God and thank you for calling me. 

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

John 1:47-51 - Seeing the Way of Salvation

John 1:47-51

47 Jesus saw Nathanael coming to Him, and said of him, “Behold, an Israelite indeed, in whom there is no deceit!” 48 Nathanael said to Him, “How do You know me?” Jesus answered and said to him, “Before Philip called you, when you were under the fig tree, I saw you.” 49 Nathanael answered Him, “Rabbi, You are the Son of God; You are the King of Israel.” 50 Jesus answered and said to him, “Because I said to you that I saw you under the fig tree, do you believe? You will see greater things than these.” 51 And He said to him, “Truly, truly, I say to you, you will see the heavens opened and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man.”

Message: Seeing the Way of Salvation

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: Jesus has left Nazareth and now is in Galilee. Andrew and John, Peter and Phillip and Nathanael. And in this passage today is a conversation between Jesus and Nathanael. Jesus and Nathanael see one another and acknowledge one another, and in the process acknowledge some things. Nathanael is probably coming to get to know Jesus a little better and figure out who He is. Nathanael is an Israelite. 

Nathanael is startled a little because Jesus already knows who He is and had seen him prior. It is not clear if Jesus is showing his all-knowing attributes here or maybe he did see him previously. And yet in Nathanael's response he believed there was something supernatural by what Jesus had done. 

Nathanael calls Jesus King of Israel, Son of God. This is one more title or name given Jesus so far in this book (Word, Light, One, Him, Son of God, Lamb of God). And then Jesus utters a phrase he will repeat often, "Do you believe?" Believe is really the major crux of Jesus. Do people believe in Him? 

And Jesus is remarking one of the first steps of discipleship and that is believe. We must believe before we can trust. 

And Jesus lets him know that as Nathanael is with Jesus and follows Him, then Nathanael will see things, great things, like the heavens open and the angels of God ascending and descending. Being with Jesus will be greater than anything. 

In those words is something interesting as well from Jesus, "You will see." It is repeated twice, in verse 50 and 51. Philip in the previous lesson said to Nathanael, "Come and see." The promise we have with Jesus is to come and see and we will see. Life will be much fuller and complete once we see and behold Jesus, The Spirit illuminates us and gives us understanding and then in Christ we see more than we could have dreamed. It is not that we need to have a major illumination or experience. But it is simply trusting in Him and being guided by Him that we see that life is full and complete. 

And in addition, Jesus says, "You will see greater things than these." This is a great promise from God. I had great joy at my salvation. I often listen or hear the song from Edin Adahl, "Bring back the joy of my salvation" and yet the longer I am following Jesus, the greater it is. Upon salvation, it is only the beginning. The more I am in fellowship with the Lord and see Him in creation, in people, in all things, my faith multiplies and I see and behold Him more and more. And Jesus seems to be expressing this to Nathanael that today is only the beginning. We always have hope for tomorrow, for the future. He promises us heaven and eternal life. We know life will only improve in Christ. 

In these words, Jesus proclaims something significant and that is he is the one who intercedes or go between heaven and earth on behalf of sinful man. 

Alexander Maclaren states on this:

He makes a mightier claim than any that they had dreamed of, and proclaims Himself to be the medium of all communication and intercourse between heaven and earth: ‘Hereafter ye shall see heaven opened, and the angels of God ascending and descending upon the Son of Man.’

Christ is the ladder between heaven and earth and so he is the way of salvation. This appears to be a direct reminder of Jacob's Ladder whereby it joins heaven and earth. And the Son of Man is present between heaven and earth, bridging the gap. He is going to heaven and coming back for Man so as to take to heaven. 

Note: My understanding and writings today come from Alexander Maclaren who I really enjoy reading. 

Summary: Jesus proclaims that is present between heaven and earth, going back and forth, taking His people to heaven from earth, back and forth. We see him. We believe. 

Promise: From Tabletalk, "On this side of heaven, the greatest thing we can see is Jesus as the way of salvation. Seeing and believing in Him is the only way to heaven."

Prayer: Lord, I thank you for this passage and for Alexander Maclaren and the gifts you gave him to preach and teach Your words. I love to read him and understand so very well what you have done for me. You changed this text before me after a first reading and made it come alive, in seeing you and believing in You and giving me hope for the future. Thank you for Your promises and the joy in knowing You. Thank you for the hope we have for the future and for constantly renewing our hope and keeping me excited about tomorrow. 

Revelation 20:1-6 - The Millennial Reign of Christ

Revelation 20:1-6 

Then I saw an angel coming down from heaven, holding the key of the abyss and a great chain in his hand. 2 And he laid hold of the dragon, the serpent of old, who is the devil and Satan, and bound him for a thousand years; 3 and he threw him into the abyss, and shut it and sealed it over him, so that he would not deceive the nations any longer, until the thousand years were completed; after these things he must be released for a short time.

4 Then I saw thrones, and they sat on them, and judgment was given to them. And I saw the souls of those who had been beheaded because of their testimony of Jesus and because of the word of God, and those who had not worshiped the beast or his image, and had not received the mark on their forehead and on their hand; and they came to life and reigned with Christ for a thousand years. 5 The rest of the dead did not come to life until the thousand years were completed. This is the first resurrection. 6 Blessed and holy is the one who has a part in the first resurrection; over these the second death has no power, but they will be priests of God and of Christ and will reign with Him for a thousand years.

Message: The Millennial Reign of Christ

Time: John mentions himself 4 times as author. It was written around the year 95 on John's exile to the island of Patmos after preaching the gospel to Asia. Revelation comes from the Greek word for apocalypse and refers to an unveiling. The book is about the tribulation period with symbolic language, giving us the end of the story -- Jesus will once and for all heal the wounds of sin, reign for a thousand years on earth, then re-create the world into a place that represents God's original design.

What the Lord is Saying: Over the years, my study of Revelation has been brief. I listened to my favorite pastor, Tom Nelson, did a series on Revelation in 1990. And what stood out to me always was Revelation 2 and 3 and the message to the 7 churches for it had application, but the rest of the book has an almost fantasy or future feel to it that I have always struggled finding application in today. But, I also admit I haven't devoted much time to its study. It seems to be a text that has a lot of controversy and different interpretations as well and today's idea of the Millennium is probably chief in disputes. 

3 main views of the Millennium have been:

1. Premillennial - The 1,000 years mentioned is literal and actual and after this 1,000 years following Christ's return a new heavens and earth will arrive.  

2. Amillennial - The 1,000 years is figurative and represents the time between Christ's ascension and His return, thus we are living in the 1,000 years now. Once he returns, the new heavens and earth will arrive. During this time the gospel will be preached and many converted, but also many will resist.  

3. Postmillennial - The 1,000 years will also occur before Christ's return, but there will also be widespread peace and prosperity as a result of the preaching of the Gospel. Society will be transformed and people converted and then Christ will return. 

It is hard to say what is right, but it can be agreed that Christ will reign - I Corinthians 15:25 -- For He must reign until He has put all His enemies under His feet.

Summary: Christ is ruling and reigning now and despite different views of the Millennial, we must remain united in Christ. 

Promise: No matter our views, we should all work together to proclaim the present reign of Christ and His command for all people to repent and bow to His lordship. 

Prayer: God, you are great and Your words are true. Thank you for the future and what You have in store for us. I am confident it is great and at the minimum I will see You one day. May lives continue to be changed for the Gospel and to Your Glory. Draw people to yourself. May hope remain in You and what You are doing. Thank you for the power of Your Word and Your Spirit to live in us and equip us for every good work. 

Mark 13:32-37 - The Call to Stay Awake

Mark 13:32-37
32 But of that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but the Father alone.
33 “Take heed, keep on the alert; for you do not know when the appointed time will come. 34 It is like a man away on a journey, who upon leaving his house and putting his slaves in charge, assigning to each one his task, also commanded the doorkeeper to stay on the alert.35 Therefore, be on the alert—for you do not know when the master of the house is coming, whether in the evening, at midnight, or when the rooster crows, or in the morning—36 in case he should come suddenly and find you asleep.37 What I say to you I say to all, ‘Be on the alert!’”

Message: The Call to Stay Awake

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 - Chapter 13 has all been about the Olivet Discourse, from Mark's perspective. These are prophetic words spoken by Jesus upon him leaving Jerusalem, having been questioned repeatedly by different religious leaders of the day. My guess is when I have read this text in the past, I thought it was speaking of Jesus' 2nd coming and perhaps section of it does speak of this, but the majority I have seen leads up to the destruction of Jerusalem in AD 70 and then the fleeing of the Jews from Jerusalem and eventually spreading the gospel message to many regions.

This passage concludes the Olivet Discourse. After a first reading, it has some interesting words from Jesus, some unexpected. He begins by saying, But of that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but the Father. It would seem in these verses that Jesus is speaking on information that the Father has, but he does not. I would think that perhaps as the son of Man, at this point, being fully man and walking the earth as a man, he does not speak in a way that communicates an all-knowing perspective. Tabletalk states, "Jesus reveals His ignorance." His acts have consistently been divine like: settling the storm on the water, walking on the water, healing the blind and lame, forgiving sin, and speaking continually with the same authority as the Father. So Jesus, as the Son of Man here does not know the time. As the Son of God, he knows the time. I think I will see that upon his resurrection He will have a different way of speaking about divine matters.

Now what verse 32 is speaking about is a mystery. It could be that verse 32 refers to the time of Jerusalem's destruction during the first century. Or it could be rendered that verse 32 moves from talk of the fall of Jerusalem to the Day of judgment. The word but could communicate this contrast in subject. Thus, I believe that verse 30 which speaks of the fact that this generation will certainly not pass away until all these things have happened is talking about the fall of Jerusalem. But of that day or hour;hour here is better translated season, so the day or season is not known as hour is a component of a day so it would be repetitive to say day or hour.

In verse 33 and following, Jesus remarks that the people of God are to be on the alert - so whether it is the fall of Jerusalem or the Day of Judgment, the people of God are not to be obsessive in figuring out the time, but rather they are to take on a roll of being on the alert for when it happens they will not be surprised. This means that these words can be applied to our present situation of waiting for Jesus's 2nd coming. The important thing is to be on the alert for the time is not known. Yet, we are not only to be on the alert as in verse 34 Jesus remarks in an example that we are Jesus slaves and we have a task to do.  It is like a man away on a journey, who upon leaving his house and putting his slaves in charge, assigning to each one his task. As I am on the alert, I am also doing a task. Jesus has been very clear that the church has a task to do in preaching the gospel to all people, everywhere.

Summary - Jesus continues to speak and either speaks of the uncertain time of the destruction of Jerusalem or the future judgment, Day of the Lord, as is spoken of in Daniel. No matter what is being discussed, what he is telling his followers is to be on the alert. Yes, they have a task to do during this period of waiting but they are not to figure out the time but instead be obedient to their calling.

Promise: People Get Ready does not mean we sit and wait, but we work and wait, staying on the alert.

Prayer: Thank you for this passage of scripture Lord and communicating your truths. I appreciate that it is hard to understand what you were saving some 2000 years ago for I am fine with not feeling like I must understand everything now. You would reveal your truths at the appropriate time. What I do know is I need to be ready and be on the alert.

Mark 13:24-26 - Signs in the Heavens

Mark 13:24-26
24 “But in those days, after that tribulation, THE SUN WILL BE DARKENED AND THE MOON WILL NOT GIVE ITS LIGHT, 25 AND THE STARS WILL BE FALLING from heaven, and the powers that are in the heavens will be shaken. 26 Then they will see THE SON OF MAN COMING IN CLOUDS with great power and glory.

Message: Signs in the Heavens

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 - Jesus continues to speak. He has been speaking about the coming destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem and then how the believers there would need to flee the City to the mountains to preserve their lives. False teachers will try to get them to stay, but they are not to be fooled by them for they must remember the message and teaching of the true Messiah - Jesus Christ.

Jesus now comments about what will occur, in those days, after that tribulation. The tribulation here is referring to the events around the destruction of the Temple. At this point Jesus has already died on the cross, risen from the dead and the temple has been destroyed. Jesus now predicts His Second Coming. Or is it about this? The Olivet Discourse has been controversial for it is a prophecy and there has been a struggle in understanding its meaning and application.

Jesus now discusses the dissolution of the Jewish State or the governing system that the Jews were apart of up to this point. They had their own government but now it was going away. The glory, excellence, and prosperity of the Jewish nation will go away and instead their will be universal sadness.

Jesus quotes from the ideas of Isaiah 13:10 and Ezekiel 32:7 - THE SUN WILL BE DARKENED AND THE MOON WILL NOT GIVE ITS LIGHT - which speak of the destruction of Babylon. Out with the Jewish Nation and in with the Gospel Church.

But this language could also point to God's judgment on Jerusalem for rejecting the Messiah.

Up to this point, it has been interpreted that much of what Jesus had been saying would be fulfilled in the 1st century, by AD 70. But others have thought that, in Matthew 24:29, which is a parallel discourse of this passage, it states Immediately after the distress of those days whereas Mark says But in those days, after that tribulation. The world immediately could take on the meaning of now or even of a thousand years being a day which is common to think about since God sits outside of time. And though we are living in the constraints of time and feel like it is a long day to Christ's second coming, for God it can be immediately.

So I think now of someone coming to me and asking me for the interpretation of this passage and I believe my response would be that there is not one definitive interpretation that numerous people consistently agree with. I therefore defer to others more astute in the study of this passage.

Jesus concludes this by quoting from Daniel 7:13-14 - THE SON OF MAN COMING IN CLOUDS Jesus is coming like a son of man but with all of the majesty of God. If anything what we know from these words is Jesus acknowledging himself as the true Messiah. This was a known passage of Jewish leaders to speak of the Messiah coming. I think one thing we can know from this is Jesus is expressing with clarity that He is the messiah.

Summary - as Tabletalk states for October 11, 2016 - Jesus will come again to judge the living and the dead, but that does not mean that every passage that might seem to predict that event is actually talking about the second coming of Christ. Thus, this passage is predicting an event or a time period but it is Jesus proclaiming the future and with that I will trust him.

Promise: Jesus is coming. Jesus is here.

Prayer: Lord, at times I do not understand your words, but that is okay. You have confirmed much already about who you are and why you have come and I can trust you for other ideas that I do not understand. Help me to continue to be a student of the Word and continue to follow you all of my days. You are Savior and Lord and I need you every moment. I want to worship you and praise your name for saving me and making me whole and new and acceptable before God the Father for all eternity.

Mark 13:1-4 - The Olivet Discourse

Mark 13:1-4
1 As He was going out of the temple, one of His disciples *said to Him, “Teacher, behold what wonderful stones and what wonderful buildings!” 2 And Jesus said to him, “Do you see these great buildings? Not one stone will be left upon another which will not be torn down.”
3 As He was sitting on the Mount of Olives opposite the temple, Peter and James and John and Andrew were questioning Him privately, 4 “Tell us, when will these things be, and what will be the sign when all these things are going to be fulfilled?”

Message: The Olivet Discourse

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 - I'm not sure what day it is. It still seems like the same day as Chapter 12, which means it is the 3rd or 4th day of his arrival into Jerusalem. Jesus has answered the religious leaders questions and he has also now put forth his own thoughts about being the Messiah, and reflecting on the motives of religious leaders as well as those that give to the temple. Jesus continues to speak a lot about people's motives. Rather than simply thinking that obedience to the Law is a sort of list of things to do to be accepted by God, Jesus is helping people see that God is interested in people's hearts. And Jesus himself is speaking of people's inner motives for doing things.

They are leaving the temple area where Jesus was sitting and providing a lesson from the giving habits of the wealthy and the poor widow. That lesson spoke to the idea that we often judge people or assess people by the size of their gifts: in that we have a tendency to think the gift given by the wealthy person is greater than the gift given by a poor person. Jesus is telling the disciples to not look at the outward so much. And yet, coming out of the temple, this is exactly what the disciples do. As He was going out of the temple, one of His disciples *said to Him, “Teacher, behold what wonderful stones and what wonderful buildings!” See, immediately the disciples look at the large structures and remark of how wonderful they look. Granted, the disciples could be simply talking but even in our normal conversation we reveal things about our hearts and our true motives. The temple must have been impressive to look at as they are impressive in their size.

Jesus' response to this question is a word of prophecy. And Jesus said to him, “Do you see these great buildings? Not one stone will be left upon another which will not be torn down.” I have already see Jesus curse the fig tree. This was to cast judgment on it for not bearing fruit though it looked like it did. It is as if Jesus is saying that their be consequences to not following through on commitments or doing what we are called to do. After that curse, he went to the temple and saw the leaders using it for their personal gain rather than staying true its purpose and allowing the Gentiles a place at the temple. And once again, it appears here that Jesus is saying that these big structures that we view with amazement due to their size and stature will one day be torn down. This statement probably seemed improbable to the disciples that it would ever come to fruition.

As He was sitting on the Mount of Olives opposite the temple, (the Mount of Olives was nearby and I wonder did they make the trek to it, thus leave the City area and temple area; the Mount of Olives was on the trek from Jerusalem to Bethany) Peter and James and John and Andrew were questioning Him privately, (this is another instance in which Mark mentions in detail all of those that were present as Andrew is mentioned but not elsewhere in the other gospels and the disciples are mentioned specifically by Mark) “Tell us, when will these things be, and what will be the sign when all these things are going to be fulfilled?” - Yet, while providing a little more detail in the names of the disciples the question here is not as complete as what is asked from Matthew's perspective. Matthew adds of what will be the sign of His Coming.

Summary - Jesus has come out of the temple area and some of the disciples remark on the size of the buildings and Jesus responds that the buildings will at one time no longer exist and their foundation will be overturned. Jesus and the disciples then leave Jerusalem and go outside the City to the mount of Olives to discuss what has occurred with the disciples asking Jesus to explain.

Promise: I need to study diligently these texts, pray over them for God's help in interpreting the Bible, to understand what God would have me learn.

Prayer: Lord, thank you for having a mission, a purpose for all things. At times, my understanding of things is limited. But, as Solomon said, you have made everything appropriate in its own time, so I can trust You with all the answers even when they are not apparent from reading the text. Give me wisdom in understanding what You are saying. Thank you for loving Me and knowing What I need.

Matthew 25:14-30 - Investing for the Future

Matthew 25:14-30
“For just like a man to go on a journey, who called his own slaves and entrusted his possessions to them. To one he gave five talents, to another, two, and to another, one, each according to his own ability; and he went on his journey. Immediately the one who had received the five talents went and traded with them, and gained five more talents. In the same manner the one who the two gained two more. But he who received the one went away, and dug in the ground and hid his master’s money.
“Now after a long time the master of those slaves *came and *settled accounts with them. The one who had received the five talents came up and brought five more talents, saying, ‘Master, you entrusted five talents to me. See, I have gained five more talents.’ His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful slave. You were faithful with a few things, I will put you in charge of many things; enter into the joy of your master.’
“Also the one who the two talents came up and said, ‘Master, you entrusted two talents to me. See, I have gained two more talents.’ His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful slave. You were faithful with a few things, I will put you in charge of many things; enter into the joy of your master.’
“And the one also who had received the one talent came up and said, ‘Master, I knew you to be a hard man, reaping where you did not sow and gathering where you scattered no. And I was afraid, and went away and hid your talent in the ground. See, you have what is yours.’
“But his master answered and said to him, ‘You wicked, lazy slave, you knew that I reap where I did not sow and gather where I scattered no. Then you ought to have put my money in the bank, and on my arrival I would have received my back with interest. Therefore take away the talent from him, and give it to the one who has the ten talents.’
“For to everyone who has, shall be given, and he will have an abundance; but from the one who does not have, even what he does have shall be taken away. Throw out the worthless slave into the outer darkness; in that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.

Message: Investing for the Future

Time: The date of Matthew's composition is anywhere from 55-60 AD probably in Antioch of Syria. The writing is most likely to the Jews. His purpose was to show them that Jesus of Nazareth was the expected messiah and both his genealogy and his resurrection were legitimate proofs of this.

What the Lord is Saying: The essence of this passage is profit making or doing something with the resources God has given you. We are to spend less than we earn. The Bible speaks against quick wealth. Proverbs 20:21 says - An inheritance gained hurriedly at the beginning will not be blessed in the end. There are many different schemes to get rich quick because our desire for things is never ending and we think all would be better if we could have everything now. Thus, the allure of winning the lottery is in a way of acquiring all that we need at one moment. Work is often seen as an enemy in life and we tend to focus so much on play, yet many people with great wealth continue to work. I don't think it is just a desire to wanting more, but there is joy in investing in something and seeing a dividend from your work. There is nothing wrong with holding onto what we earn, but we also must have a plan for that which we acquire. I struggle with this. It seems the needs of life, ever since the kids have been born, is so great. I'm not just focused on spending for 1 or 2 people, but thinking about 5 and there seems like there are always many decisions to make with money. 

Promise: No matter how much one earns or already possesses, it can be increased through patient and wise investing.

Prayer: Lord, you are holy and I need your wisdom. Lord, I tend to repeatedly spend more than I have. Dangling in front of me are investments. I think of this house and the things that I feel like it needs and I feel a desire to take some of the equity that I have build up and use it to purchase things for my house. I think about this wedding and what will be spent on it.  I want to be wise, but it is hard Lord. Help me to make good decisions.

Hebrews 11:13-16 - Suffering and Death

Hebrews 11:13-16
¹³ All these died in faith, without receiving the promises, but having seen them and having welcomed them from a distance, and having confessed that they were strangers and exiles on the earth. ¹⁴ For those who say such things make it clear that they are seeking a country of their own. ¹⁵ And indeed if they had been thinking of that country from which they went out, they would have had opportunity to return. ¹⁶ But as it is, they desire a better country, that is, a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God; for He has prepared a city for them.


Message: Suffering and Death

Time: Hebrews was written to a group of Christians who had suffered in the past and were now threatened with even more suffering. They'd done well years ago, but the author of Hebrews feared that they might now turn away from Christ to avoid further persecution.The opinions on the author of Hebrews has varied.

What the Lord is Saying: Suffering and death, it seems, remains a mystery in my life. Sickness, suffering and death continually assault people at different stages of life. The reality is the odds are the same for everyone: 1 out of 1 person will die.  As followers of Jesus, it is told to us that we will have eternal life (I John 5:11-12). Even Jesus died at an early age in an unfair manner (though he rose again). Jesus, however, conquered death. He rose again. We will rise, but non on this earth.

Something I've been realizing more and more is that sicknesses in the present are evidence of the fallenness of creation. I am not simply to think that my illness is the result of my sin, but rather it is the result of humanities sin. To me, that is one key principle. The other major thing I've learned over the years is we are not to come to God with the "why me" or "why them" question, but instead we come to God requesting healing and for prayer. What is most important is the condition of my soul when I die. But, I think it is hard because us American are so focused on comfort and safety and ease the sickness and suffering assault this and therefore there seems to be a tendency in thinking that it is always unjustified. My conclusion is "don't go there."

Instead, my focus in life is more on the condition of my soul when I die and encouraging people to think about this in general. For Jesus, what he mentioned was the key to this can be found in being born again in this life. This is the way we see the kingdom of God (John 3) or the kingdom of heaven. There is peace then in this life, no matter what may occur. This I believe is our focus.

This is the key of these verses in Hebrews. To begin with, I look first at the preceding verses in chapter 11 of Hebrews as their is a common idea expressed and this is "by faith." By Faith is the common theme thus far in this chapter and while that phrase isn't used, I think i need to remember it in as I read these verses. The people that were mentioned in the preceding verses were Old Testament saints, like Abraham and Sarah.

To me, what is spoken here in verse 13 is these people, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Sarah -- they all lived there lives by faith. Faith was their calling card. They had the promise of the Messiah and removing the sin of the world, but they had not yet see it. God requested they believe in Him. This is the key of the entire Bible: Believe; having faith. Our faith in God supersedes everything else, so I can navigate life because of this faith. I can have peace about anything and everything because of this faith. In verse 14 is the what those by faith are seeking: a country of their own. This is a country that is beyond the constraints of this present life. Again, we have faith in this life and the life to come. And then in verse 15 and 16 it is mentioned that these people were not caught up in living simply in this present life, but they were more focused on the future and the heavenly home in which God has set up for them. If I know that I will live for eternity with God in heaven, then it should make living on earth easier. Yes, suffering will continue to occur, but I can walk through those times because I know God cares for me and I know he cares for me because he has provided what I need to spend eternity with him in heaven: thus I can have faith in this life because my eternal home is set in stone.  

Promise: Continue to hold onto the promises of God and continue to take my needs to him, trusting that He is walking with us always.

Prayer: Thank you God for providing salvation to me and that my future is in your hands. Help me to live each day by faith. Yes, there are trying times, uncomfortable ones, and times that lack security for through it all I can trust You because you are a God that can be trusted because the future, my future home is in place and is waiting for me.

Jesus Calling: November 9

Sit quietly with Me, letting all your fears and worries bubble up to the surface of your consciousness. There, in the Light of My Presence, the bubbles pop and disappear. However, some fears surface over and over again, especially fear of the future. You tend to project yourself mentally into the next day, week, month, year, decade; and you visualize yourself coping badly in those times. What you are seeing is a false image, because it doesn't include Me. Those gloomy times that you imagine will not come to pass, since My Presence will be with you at all times.
     When a future-oriented worry assails you, capture it and disarm it by suffusing the Light of My Presence into that mental image. Say to yourself, "Jesus will be with me then and there. With His help, I can cope!" Then, come home to the present moment, where you can enjoy Peace in My Presence. 

Luke 12:22-26
English Standard Version
22 And he said to his disciples, “Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat, nor about your body, what you will put on. 23 For life is more than food, and the body more than clothing.24 Consider the ravens: they neither sow nor reap, they have neither storehouse nor barn, and yet God feeds them. Of how much more value are you than the birds! 25 And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life? 26 If then you are not able to do as small a thing as that, why are you anxious about the rest?

Deuteronomy 31:6
English Standard Version
Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the Lord your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you.

2 Corinthians 10:5
English Standard Version
We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ.

My Prayer

Lord, I cast my cares upon your throne. Help me see you are with me today, tomorrow and every day in the future. I want to live obedient to Your Word, trusting in You, not anxious about today. You remind me the way you provide for the birds and animals that you created. I am much more valuable than them. Forgive me for thinking at times that I must prepare for the future and not seeing You already in my future. I can be strong and courageous for every moment.


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 28

     As you look into the day that stretches out before you, you see many choice-points along the way. The myriad possibilities these choices present can confuse you. Draw your mind back to the threshold of this day, where I stand beside you, lovingly preparing you for what is ahead.
     You must make your choices one at a time, since each is contingent upon the decision that precedes it. Instead of trying to create a mental map of your path through this day, focus on My loving Presence with you. I will equip you as you go, so that you can handle whatever comes your way. Trust Me to supply what you need when you need it. 

Lamentations 3:22-26
English Standard Version

²² The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases;
    his mercies never come to an end;
²³ they are new every morning;
    great is your faithfulness.
²⁴ “The Lord is my portion,” says my soul,
    “therefore I will hope in him.”

²⁵ The Lord is good to those who wait for him,
    to the soul who seeks him.
²⁶ It is good that one should wait quietly
    for the salvation of the Lord.

Verse Thoughts
Lamentations is called the book of mourning. The verses quoted here come to us in the midst of darkness.

Psalm 34:8
New King James Version

Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good;
Blessed is the man who trusts in Him!

My Prayer
Remind me Lord not to look too far ahead, but to trust you with each of my decisions. You will take care of my situations, in your way, by Your sovereign hand. Teach me to walk with you and trust you each day, each minute, each decision.  

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: March 10

    You are Mine for all time -- and beyond time, into eternity. No power can deny you your inheritance in heaven. I want you to realize how utterly secure you are! Even if you falter as you journey through life, I will never let go of your hand. 

    Knowing that your future is absolutely assured can free you to live abundantly today. I have prepared this day for you with the most tender concern and attention to detail. Instead of approaching the day as a blank page that you need to fill up, try living it in a responsive mode: being on the lookout for all that I am doing. This sounds easy, but it requires a deep level of trust, based on the knowledge that My way is perfect. 

Psalm 37:23-24

English Standard Version (ESV)

The steps of a man are established by the Lord,

   when he delights in his way; 

though he fall, he shall not be cast headlong,
   for the Lord upholds his hand.

Psalm 18:30

ESV

This God—his way is perfect;

the word of the Lord proves true;
he is a shield for all those who take refuge in him.

My Prayer
Lord, I ask that you would help me to see what you are doing around me and then join in You. Keep me alert to what You are doing in people's lives and then help me to question or ask what is going on. I have co-workers that appear to be near and far from You, I pray that I will speak of you and challenge them in their thinking or at the least, make mention of you in my day to day activities. You are present in my life, in my thoughts, in my prayers, so make yourself present in my speech. I do not want to be ashamed. Give me courage and teach me how to make you known more.

Lord, my security rests in you, not on this earth and the creature comforts. I'm concerned that because I have surrounded myself with such security and comfort, that I do not rely on you completely and rest in your provision for my future. Help me continually to not lean on my own understand, but instead, in all my ways acknowledge you. Lord, you are my refuge. Your ways are perfect. Your Word is true. My steps are ordained by You. You guide my steps and uphold my hand. Re-train me daily Lord into the likeness of You, so that I reflect You more each day.


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

Jesus Calling: February 26

    I am leading you, step by step, through your life. Hold My hand in trusting dependence, letting Me guide you through this day. Your future looks uncertain and flimsy--even precarious. That is how it should be. Secret things belong to the Lord, and future things are secret things. When you try to figure out the future, you are grasping at things that are Mine. This, like all forms of worry, is an act of rebellion: doubting My promises to care for you.
    Whenever you find yourself worrying about the future, repent and return to Me. I will show you the next step forward, and the one after that, and the one after that. Relax and enjoy the journey in My Presence, trusting Me to open up the way before you as you go. 

Deuteronomy 29:29

English Standard Version

“The secret things belong to the Lord our God, but the things that are revealed belong to us and to our children forever, that we may do all the words of this law.

Psalm 32:8

English Standard Version (ESV)

 I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go;
    I will counsel you with my eye upon you.

I was reminded yesterday that the Presence of the Lord was the reason for the tabernacle in the Old Testament. This author speaks of Presence a lot and it was starting to gnaw on me and yet I was reminded that this was really the most precious thing and the real purpose and importance of building the temples, so that God's presence could be present with the people. But, when Jesus came, he dwelt among us or tabernacle-d among us. His presence was now with us.

That is the point of these prayers. God's presence is with us. He isn't distant. He is right there with us. He is giving us strength and promising for us a new life in Christ. We are to walk in Him daily, not thinking about the future, but today. We trust Him for tomorrow. If we worry, we repent. That is a good reminder to see my sin and then repent and turn from it. Acknowledge it. I am to enjoy life and sin masks the meaning of life.

My Prayer
Lord, help me to trust You for today and focus on today. May I not be worried or concerned about the future or things that I don't control. I pray that I would plan well, but not at the expense of trusting You. Forgive me for doubting you and worrying about the future.

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: January 12

Let Me prepare you for the day that stretches out before you. I know exactly what this day will contain, whereas you have only vague ideas about it.You would like to see a map; showing all the twists and turns of your journey. You'd feel more prepared if you could somehow visualize what is on the road ahead. However, there is a better way to be prepared for whatever you will encounter today: Spend quality time with Me.
     I will not show you what is on the road ahead, but I will thoroughly equip you for the journey. My living Presence is your Companion each step of the way. Stay in continual communication with Me, whispering My name whenever you need to redirect your thoughts. Thus, you can walk through this day with your focus on Me. My abiding Presence is the best road map available.

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

John 15:4-7
English Standard Version
Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing. If anyone does not abide in me he is thrown away like a branch and withers; and the branches are gathered, thrown into the fire, and burned. If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.

My Prayer
Lord, you are over all. You are king. You are creator and Lord. You are my deliverer. You are my redeemer and Savior. You are the healer, the restorer of life, the sanctifier of mankind. You uphold all things by the Word of Your Power. You are the First and the Last. You are Peace. You are My presence. You are my guide and shepherd. You are all glory and might. You are the faithful One. You are ever so faithful. You are love. You are forgiveness. You have perfect timing. Lord, I can lean on You because You are strength.

Lord, I think knowing the road is the key. I think having the map in my hands is what I need. But, the secret lies in my time with You. I need to walk with You. You are my guide. You are my map. This week I have been talking to You a lot about trust and walking in Your presence and having peace. That is where I need to stay. My back hurts. I don't know why, but it hurts. I need your strength. I need you to restore my strength. I feel unsettled. My head is hurting, my stomach is empty. I don't feel right. Lord, I want to lean on You and rest in You. Help me Lord not to bury myself in my hurts, but use this time to rely on Your strength. May it be a reminder that You are my health.

Lord, help me to see that I don't need a road, but what I need is Your to be beside me. Help me to know the Holy Spirit better in my life. And help me to stay in constant communication with You.

I must abide in You. You are the vine. I am the branch. And fruit is what we both want. Fruit isn't just what I want. It is what we both want. Lord, I want to trust in You for the Outcome that you have prescribed for my life. With you, everything is right. I want to stay close to You and close to trusting in You. May your words abide in Me so that the things I'm asking are of You.

Lord, thank You for your Word and giving it to us. Thank you for illuminating us with clarity of thought.

I thank you for these men and women of God that you have placed in our midst in our churches. Lord, thank you for bringing each one. Lord, we live in a world of constant temptations and constant distractions. These electronic devices we now have beside us, the iPhones, iPods, Kindles, iPads can add to the distraction. Lord, I pray for these leaders that they would never be comfortable with their repentance, but would always be bothered by it. Lord, may it be continually difficult. Dig up all sins in their lives and may they present them before You. Lord, help them to walk with integrity and strong character. Train them in their private thoughts, that they would honor You. Lord, never allow them to just go through the motions, but to stay strong with You every step of the way. Lord, we need You and need to stay on the alert. Give them accountability partners and friends that they can confide in and trust. Thank You for your presence. We praise You. In Christ.

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

Hebrews 2:15

and deliver all those who through fear of death were subject to lifelong slavery.
(Hebrews 2:15 ESV)

Jesus frees us from the fear of death, from death, from a lifelong fear of not knowing freedom, not knowing comfort, not knowing peace. Why? Because God is our friend and our protector. And everywhere we are under the protection of our Savior.

Acts 1:6-8 (ESV)

6 So when they had come together, they asked him, “Lord, will you at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?” 7 He said to them, “It is not for you to know times or seasons that the Father has fixed by his own authority. 8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”