For Sale: One Soul

What will a man give in exchange for his soul? - Matthew 16:26


One would think that selling one's soul, as Faust offered his to the devil in Goethe's Dr. Fautus, is only a figment of literary fiction. Medieval as it seems, however, several cases of soul-selling have occured.

Wired magazine reported that a 29-year-old university instrutor succeeded in selling his immortal soul for $1,325. He said, "In America, you can metaphorically and literally sell your soul and be rewarded for it." One wonders how the purchaser intended to collect.

We can't literally sell our soul, but we can lose our soul to gain something else. We need to ponder Jesus' question, "What will a man give in exchange for his soul?" (Matt. 16:26). Our answers today would differ only in specifics from the responses of Jesus' day: the world, the flesh, and the devil. The lusts that captivate us and the thirst for unbridled pleasure, success, revenge, or material things have certainly taken on far more importance to many people than any considerations of eternity.

Nothing on earth compares to the gifts of God's loe and forgiveness. If the pleasures of this world are preventing you from trusting in Jesus Christ, please think again. It's not worth the cost of your eternal soul. - David C. Egner


Rejoice, O soul, the debt is paid,
For all our sins on Christ were laid;
We've been redeemed, we're justified -
And all because the Savior died. - D. De Haan

Jesus is the only fountain who can satisfy the thirsty soul.

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Matthew 16:24-28

Then Jesus said to his disciples, "If anyone desires to come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, and whoever will lose his life for my sake will find it. For what will it profit a man, if he gains the whole world, and forfeits his life? Or what will a man give in exchange for his life?

For the Son of Man will come in the glory of his Father with his angels, and then he will render to everyone according to his deeds. Most assuredly I tell you, there are some standing here who will in no way taste of death, until they see the Son of Man coming in his kingdom."

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Wow!

Who is like You, O Lord, among the gods? Who is like You, glorious in holiness, fearful in praises, doing wonders? - Exodus 15:11



One blustery day in June, our family, holidaying in the Canadian Rockies, went to a tourist site that was billed as a "must see." The cold wind made me reluctant to go on until I saw a group of people returning from the scenic spot. "Is it worth it?" I asked. "Definitely!" was their response. That gave us the incentive to go on. When we finally reached the spot, its beauty rendered us virtually speechless. "Wow!" was all we could manage.

Paul reached that point as he wrote about the work of God in saving Jew and Gentile in the book of Romans. Three things about God "wowed" him.

First, God is all-wise (11:33). His perfect plan of salvation shows that He has far better solutions to the problems of life than we are capable of devising.

Second, God is all-knowing. His knowledge is infinite. He needs no counselor (v.34) and nothing surprises Him!

We can say with Moses, "Who is like You, majestic in holiness, awesome in glorious deeds, doing wonders?" (Ex. 15:11 ESV). What a marvelous God we serve! - C. P. Hia



By God's grace I stand on tiptoe,
Viewing all His wonders grand,
Praising Him who freely gave me
Simple faith to understand! - Bosch

In God's character and in His creation, we see His majesty.

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Romans 11:33-36

Oh the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and the knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgements, and his ways past tracing out!

"For who has known the mind of the Lord? Or who has been his counselor?" "Or who has first given to him, And it will be repaid to him again?"

For of him, and through him, and to him, are all things. To him be the glory of ever! Amen.

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Armed For The Fray

Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. - Ephesians 6:11


Paul the apostle, a spiritual warrior, testified as he came to the end of his embattled life: "I have faught the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith" (2 Tim. 4:7).

Years earlier, that valiant soldier of Jesus Christ had pleaded with his fellow Christians to put on the armor of God that would enable them to stand firm in their conflict with the powers of darkness. He knew the vital importance of donning that armor every day. In his service for Christ, Paul had been whipped, beaten, stoned, and imprisoned, and was often hungry, thirsty, cold, and weary (2 Cor. 11:22-28).

Strapping on the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, the shoes of peace, the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit (God's Word) enabled Paul to "quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one" (Eph. 6:14-17). With God's armor we too are fully covered and prepared for battle.

The prince of darkness with his hosts of demonic helpers is an incredibly crafty foe. That's why we need to guard against his deceitful devices and put on the whole armor of God every day. When we do, like Paul when he was nearing the end of his days, we can be confident that we have "kept the faith." - Vernon C. Grounds


Sound the battle cry! See - the foe is nigh!
Raise the standard high for the Lord;
Gird your armor on, stand firm, everyone;
Rest your cause upon His holy Word. - Sherwin

God's armor is tailormade for you, but you must put it on.

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Ephesians 6:10-18

Finally, be strong in the Lord, and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.

For our wresting is not against flesh and blood, but against the principalities, against the powers, against the world's rulers of the darkness of this age, and against the spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.

Therefore, put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and, having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having the utility belt of truth buckled around your waist, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having fitted your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking up the shield of faith, with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the evil one.

And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; with all prayer and requests, praying at all times in the Spirit, and being watchful to this end in all perserverance and requests for all the saints:

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Witnesses

You shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me... to the end of the earth. - Acts 1:8


In a criminal court case, witnesses provide vital information about a possible crime. Being a witnesses means telling the court the truth about what you know.

Jesus as the criminal justice system relies heavily on witnesses, Jesus uses bold, faithful, and credible witnesses to spread His Word and build His churh.

Before Jesus ascended to His Father, He gave His disciples a final command - to launch a worldwide witnessing campaign. The Holy Spirit would come upon them and give them supernatural power to be His witnesses throughout the world (Acts.1:8).

Jesus called these early apostles to go into a world where people did not know about Him and to give a truthful account of what they had seen, heard, and experienced (Acts 4:19-20). Since they had witnessed His perfect life, teachings, suffering, death, burial, and resurrection (Luke 24:48; Acts 1:5), they were to go out and give a truthful testimony about Him.

In taking the gospel to the ends of the world, we are called to testify to the truth about Jesus and how He has changed our lives. "How shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard?" (Rom. 10:14). What are you doing to tell others? - Marvin Williams


Lord and Savior, Christ divine,
Reign within this heart of mine;
May my witness ever be
Always, only, Lord, for Thee. - Brandt

God has left us in the world to witness to the world.

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Acts 1:1-11

The first book I wrote, Theophilus, concerned all that Jesus began both to do and to teach, until the day in which he was received up, after he had given commandment through the Holy Spirit to the apostles whom he had chosen.

To these he also showed himself alive after he suffered, by many proofs, appearing to them over a period of forty days, and speaking about God's Kingdom. Being assembled together with them, he charged them, "Don't depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father, which you heard from me.

For John indeed baptized in water, but you will baptized in the Holy Spirit not many days from now." Therefore, when they had come together, they asked him, "Lord, are you now restoring the kingdom to Israel?"

He said to them, "It isn't for you to know times or seasons which the Father has set within His own authority. But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you. You will be witnesses to me in Jerusalem, in all Judah and Samaria, and to the uttermost parts of the earth."

When he had said these things, as they were looking, he was taken up, and a cloud received him our of their sight. While they were looking steadfastly into the sky as he went, behold, two men stood by them in the white clothing, who also said,

"You men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into the sky? This Jesus, who was received up from you into the sky will come back in the same way as you saw him going into the sky."

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None So Blind

Inashmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me. Matthew 25:40


Singer Ray Stevens is generally given credit for writing the phrase "There is none so blind as he who will not see," a line from the song "Everything is Beautiful." But preacher Matthew Henry used the phrase 250 years ago when commenting on the lyrics of another songwriter, Asaph.

Asaph's lyrics were ont as upbeat as those of Stevens. His song was a rebuke to the Iaraelites for failing to fulfill their God-given purpose. God had chosen them to show the world how to live right and judge justly, but they were failing miserbly. Instead of defending the weak and fatherless, they were defending the unjust and showing partiality to the wicked (Ps. 82:2-3).

In his commentary on Psalm 82, Henry wrote: "A gift in secret blinds their eyes. They know not because they will not understand. None so blind as those that will not see. They have baffled their own consciences, and so they walk on in darkness."

Jesus confirmed God's interest in the weak and helpless. He explained that whatever is done for the "least of these" is done for Him (Matt. 25:34-40). And He chided His disciples for keeping chidren away from Him (Luke 18:16).

Those who have eyes that see what God sees find ways to help the helpless. - Julie Ackerman Link


Love through me, Love of God,
There is no love in me;
O Fire of love, light Thou the love
That burns perpetually. - Carmichael

A test of true Christian love: Do you help those who can't help you in return?

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Psalm 82

God presides in the great assembly. He judge among the gods. "How long will you judge unjustly, And show partiality to the wicked?" Selah.

"Defend the weak, the poor, and the fatherless. Maintain the rights of the poor and oppressed. Rescue the weak and needy. Deliver them out of the hand of wicked."

They don't know, neither do they understand. They walk back and forth in darkness. All the foundations of the earth are shaken. I said, "You are gods, All of you are sons of the Most High. Nevertheless you shall die like men, And fall like one of the rulers."

Arise, God, judge the earth, For you inherit all of the nations.

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Calling Evil Good

Woe to those call evil good, and good evil. - Isaiah 5:20


The Wizard of Oz has remained popular for years. People of all ages have learned moral lessons from Dorothy, the Scarecrow, the Tin Man, and the Cowardly Lion as they traveled down the yellow brick road. Of course, in the plot line the great enemy to be overcome is the Wicked Witch of the West. Evil is clearly depicted and overcome by good.

A new Broadway musical, however, turns the moral sense of the original story on its head. In this rewriting of the story, the wicked witch is presented as a sympathetic character. Born with green skin, she feels like an outsider. Major characters, plot lines, roles, and other details are altered so that the wicked witch is really just a misunderstood person. The audience mihgt come away with the idea that evil is good and good is evil.

During the ministry of the prophet Isaiah, a reversal of moral values took place in Israel. Some actually lifted up the evils of murder, idolatry, and adultery as good. In response, Isaiah gave a stern warning: "Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil!" (Isa. 5:20). In our relativistic world, popular culture constantly challenges biblical values. But studying, memorizing, and meditating on God's Word can ensure our discernment between good and evil. - Dennis Fisher


In our day-to-day existence,
Evil sometimes wears a mask;
Trust the Lord for true discernment -
He gives wisdom when we ask. - Hess

If we know the truth, we can discern what's false.

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Isaiah 5:18-23

Woe to those who draw iniquity with cords of falsehood, And wickedness as with cart rope; Who say, "Let him make speed, let his hasten his work, that we may see it; And let the counsel of the Holy One of Israel draw near and come, That we may know it!"

Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil; Who put darkness for light, And light for darkness; Who put bitter for sweet, And sweet for bitter!

Woe to those who are wise in their own eyes, And prudent in their own sight!

Woe to those who are mighty to drink wine, And champions at mixing strong drink; Who acquit the guilt for a bribe, But deny justice for the innocent!

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The Arlington Ladies

What this woman has done will also be told as a memorial to her. - Matthew 26:13


In 1948, the US Air Force Chief of Staff noticed that no one attended the funeral of an airman at Arlington National Cemetery, and that deeply disturbed him. He talked with his wife about his concern that each soldier be honored at burial, and she began a group called the Arlington Ladies.

Someone from the group honors each deceased soldier by attending his or her funeral. The ladies also write personal notes of sympathy and speak words of gratitude to family members when they are present. If possible, a representive keeps in contact with the family for months afterward.

Margaret Mensch, an Arlington Lady, says, "The important thing is to be there for the families... It's an honor to... pay tribute to the everyday heroes that make up the armed forces."

Jesus showed the importance of paying tribute. After a woman poured a costly, fragrant oil on His head, He said that she would be honored for years to come (Matt. 26:13). The disciples were indignant and thought her act was wasteful, but Jesus called it "a good work" (v. 10) for which she would be remembered.

We know heroes who have given their lives in service to God and their country. Let's honor them today. - Anne Cetas


Lord, help us to appreciate
The work that others do,
The service given from their hearts,
Their sacrifice for You. - Sper

We honor God when we honor one another.

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Matthew 26:6-13

Now when Jesus was in Bethany, in the house of Simon the leper, a woman came to him having an alabaster jar of very expensive oinment, and she poured it on his head as he sat at the table.

But when his disciples saw this, they were indignant, saying, "Why this waste? For this oinment might have been sold for much, and given to the poor." But Jesus, knowing this, said to them,

"Why do you trouble the woman? Because she has done a good work for me. For you always have the poor with you; but you don't always have me.

For in pouring this oinment on my body, she did it to prepare me for burial. Most assuredly I tell you, wherever this gospel is preached in the whole world, what this woman has done will also be spoken of as a memorial of her."

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The Witness Of Friends

We have seen, and bear witness, and declare to you that eternal life which was with the Father and was manifested to us. - 1 John 1:2


Palitzer Prize-winning author David Halberstam died in a traffic accident 5 months before the publication of is landmark book about the US war in Korea. In the days following the author's death, fellow writers and colleagues volunteered to conduct a national book tour on his behalf. During every engagement, they paid tribute to Halberstam by reading from his new book and offering personal recollections of their friends.

When it comes to conveying the essence and importance of a person, there's no substitute for a friend. After the resurrection and ascension of Jesus Christ, His followers began to tell others about the unique Person they had known. "We have seen, and bear witness, and declare to you that eternal life which was with the Father and was manifested to us" (1 John 1:2). Their purpose was that others might come to know God the Father and Christ His Son (v.3).

At times we may feel that witnessing to others about our faith in Christ is a frightening task or a burdensome duty. But talking about a Friend whose presence and influence have transformed our lives helps us see it in a new light.

The gospel of Christ has always been most powerfully presented by the witness of His friends. - David C. McCasland


Lord, help us see, through transformed eyes,
This world of people in despair;
We want to reach out with Your love
To tell them just how much You care. - Sper.

The more you love Jesus, the more you'll talk about Him.

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1 John 1:1-7

That which was from the beginning, that which we have heard, that which we have seen with our eyes, that which we saw, and our hands touched, concerning the Word of life

(and the life was revealed, and we have seen, and testify, and declare to you the life, the eternal life, which was with the Father, and was revealed to us);

that which we have seen and heard we declare to you, that you also may have fellowship with us. Yes, and our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son, Jesus Christ.

And we write these things to you, that our joy may be fulfilled. This is the message which we have heard from him and announce to you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all.

If we say that we have fellowship with him and walk in the darkness, we lie, and don't tell the truth. But is we walk in the ligt, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ, his Son, cleanses us from all sin.

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Make Way

Prepare the way of the Lord; make straight in the desert a highway for our God. - Isaiah 40:3


Dwight D. Eisenhower was known for his courageous leadership during World War II. His battle-tested skill equipped the troops to reclaim Europe. Soon after returning to the US as a hero, he was elected president.

While in Europe, Eisenhower had experienced the danger and difficulty of navigaitng the twisting roads. So, for the sake of US national security, he commissioned a network of raods that become the nations's interstate highway system. Mountains were tunneled through and valleys were traversed by mammoth bridges.

In ancient times, conquerin kings gained access to newly acquired territories through highways built for their troops. Isaiah had this in mind when he declared, "Make straight in the desert a highway for our God" (Isa 40:3). And John the Baptist called people to repentance to "prepare the way" into their hearts for the arrival of King Jesus.

What preparation needs to be done to allow Jesus unhindered access to your own heart? Are there rough places of bitterness that need the bulldozer of forgiveness? Are there valleys of complaining that need to filled with contentment? We can't afford to neglect this spiritual engineering. Let's prepare the way for the King! - Joe Stowell


God Will make a way
Where there seems to be no way;
He works in ways we cannot see,
He will make a way for me. - Moen

Repentance clears the way for our relationship with the King.

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Isaiah 40:3-5

The voice of one who cries, Prepare you in the wilderness the way of Yawheh; make level in the desert a highway for our God.

Every valley shall be exalted, and every mountain and hill shall be made low;

and the uneven shall be made level, and te rough places a plain: and the glory of Yahweh shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together; for the mouth of Yahweh has spoken it.

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I'm Right; You Must Be Wrong

Is He Enough?

Siver and gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you. - Acts 3:6


Is Jesus enough? That's a question many Christians need to ask themselves. They have abundant material prossessions. But do these believers depend on Jesus? Or on their stuff?

While having wealth is not condemned in Scripture as long as priorities are in order and ther needs of others are addressed, those of us with relative wealth must remind ourselves that Jesus - not riches - sustains us.

The apostle Peter helps us with this in the story of the lame man begging at the temple gate in Jerusalem. This man asked Peter for money, but Peter replied, "Silver and gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk" (Acts 3:6).

The man lying at the gate thought the answer to his problems that day was money, but Peter showed him that the answer was Jesus. And He still is.

I read about a group of Chinese Christians who have much to teach us as they seek to spread the gospel in their homeland and beyond. These believers say, "We can't afford any big programs or fancy gospel presentations. All we have to give people is Jesus."

Jesus is enough for our brothers and sisters in China. He is enough for the poor. Is He enough for you? - Dave Branon


You may have much gold and graneur,
Yet by God be reckoned poor;
He alone has riches truly
Who has Christ, though nothing more. - Anon.

Our greatest riches are the riches we have in Christ.

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Acts 3:1-10

Peter and John were going up into the temple at the hour of prayer, the ninth hour. A certain man who was lame from his mother's womb was being carried, whom they did daily at the door of the temple which is called Beautiful, to ask gifts for the needy of those who entered into the temple. Seeing Peter and John about to go into the temple, he asked to receive gifts for the needy.

Peter, fastening his eyes on him, with John, said, "Look at us." He listened to them, expecting to receive something from them. But Peter said, "Silver and gold have I none, but what I have, that I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, get up and walk!"

He took him by the right hand, and raised him up. Immediately his feet and his ankle bones received strength. Leaping up, he stood, and began to walk. He entered with them into the temple, walking, leaping, and praising God.

All the people saw him walking and praising God. They recognized him, that it was he who used to sit begging for gifts for the needy at the Beautiful Gate of the temple. They were filled with wonder and amazement at what had happened to him.

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Restoring Spiritual Sight

The entrance of Your words gives light; it gives understanding to the simple. - Psalm 119:130


Sanduk Ruit is a Nepalese doctor who has used his scalpel, microscope, and simplified cataract surgery techinique to give sight to almost 70,000 people over the past 23 years. The poorest patients who visit his nonprofit eye center in Katmandy pay with just their gratitude.

Our Lord Jesus Christ healed many of physical blindness during His time on earth. But of greater concern to Him were the spiritually blind. Many of the religious authorities who investigated the healing of the blind man refused to believe that Jesus was not a sinner (John 9:13-34). This caused Jesus to say, "For judgement I have come into this world, that those who do not see may see, and that those who see may be made blind" (v. 39).

The apostle Paul wrote of this spiritual blindness when he said, "If our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing, whose minds the god of this age has blinded, who do not believe, lest the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine on them" (2 Cor. 4:3-4).

The psalmist said, "Te entrance of Your words gives light" (Ps. 119:130). God's Word is what will open our eyes and cure spiritual blindness. - C. P. Hia



Come to the Light, 'tis shining for thee!
Sweetly the Light has dawned upon me,
Once I was blind, but now I can see -
The Light of the world is Jesus. - Bliss

A world in darkness needs the light of Jesus.

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John 9:1-11

As he passed by, he saw a man blind from birth. His disciples asked him, "Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?"

Jesus answered, "Neither did this man sin, nor his parrnts; but, that the works of God might be revealed in him. I must work the works of him who sent me, while it is day. The night is coming, when no one can work. While I am in the world, I am the light of the world."

When he has said this, he spat on the ground, made mud with the saliva, anointed the blind man's eyes with the mud, and said to him, "Go, wash in the pool of Siloam". So he went away, washed, and came back seeing.

The neighbours therefore, and those who saw that he was blind before, said, "Isn't this he who sat and begged?" Others were saying, "It is he." Still others were saying, "He looks like him." He said, "I am he."

They therefore were asking him, "How were your eyes opened?" He answered, "A man called Jesus made mud, anointed my eyes, and said to me, 'Go to the pool of Siloam, and wash.' So I went away and washed, and I received sight."

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War In Heaven

War broke out in heaven... [And Satan] was cast to the earth. - Revelation 12:7-9


Philip Pulman is a gifted writer of fantasy books. His Dark Materials trilogy includes The Golden Compass, The Subtle Knife, and The Amber Spyglass and is very popular among young readers. But below the surface of these sympathetic characters and compellin subplots is a sinister purpose. The story culminates in a great war against God.

In these books, Pullman views the fall of Satan as a righteous cause for personal independence from God's "tyrannical" control. He implies that Satan's attempt to usurp the throne of God was te right thing to do!

In the book of Revelation, we read of the endtimes: "War broke out in heaven... [And Satan] was cast to the earth" (Rev. 12:7-9). That future war is being preceded by an earthly conflict on the battlefield of our minds.

We must recognize Satan for what he is - a liar (John 8:44). His strategy is to take God's words out of context and twist them into falsehood (Gen. 3:1-7). Our best defense against him is to hold firmly to the truth of God's Word (Eph. 6:10-18).

Our loving heavenly Father is "not willing that any should perish" (2 Peter 3:9). But neither will He force our obedience. He leaves the choice to us. - Dennis Fisher


When Satan strikes, strike back with the Word of God.

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Revelation 12:7-12

There was war in the sky. Michael and his angels made war on the dragon. The dragon ans his angels made war. They didn't prevail, neither was a place found for him any more in heaven.

The great dragon was thrown down, the old serpent, he who is called the devil and Satan, the deceiver of the whole world. He was thrown down to the earth, and his angels were thrown down with him.

I heard a loud voice in heaven, saying, "Now is come the salvation, the power, and the Kingdom of our God, and the authority of his Christ; for the accuser of our brothers has been thrown down, who accuses them before our God day and night.

They overcame him because of the Lamb's blood, and because of the word of their testimony, because the devil has gone down to you, having great wrath, knowing that he has but a short time."

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The Heavenly Alternative

We are confident, yes, well pleased rather to be absent from the body and to be present with the Lord. - 2 Corinthians 5:8


Recently, I wished a young friend "happy birthday" and asked him how it felt to be a year older. His playful response? "Well, I guess it's better than the alternative!"

We laughed together, but I later stopped to think - is it really? Don't misunderstand me. I'm happy to live as long as the Lord allows me to live and to watch my kids and grandkids grow and experience life. I'm not excited about the inevitability of death. But as a believer, the alternative to getting older is heaven - and that's not bad!

In 2 Corinthians 5, Paul talks about the reality of living with the aches and pains of our physical bodies, our "tents" of flesh. But we should not live in despair about aging. In fact, the apostle calls us to just the opposite. He wrote, "We are confident, yes, well pleased rather to be absent from the body and to be present with the Lord? (v.8). Confident! Pleased! Why? Because our alternative to earthly life is that we will present with the Lord - forever! The heavenly perspective of what awaits us can give us confidence for living now.

If you know Christ, His promise can give you what the hymnwriter called, "Strenth for today and bright hope for tomorrow." What a great alternative! - Bill Crowder


He's gone "to prepare a place for you,"
That where He is, "there you may be."
Our death is not the end of life -
We'll be with Christ eternally! - Hess

Death is gain because it means heaven, holiness, and Him!

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2 Corinthians 5:1-11

For we know that if the earthly house of our tent is dissolved, we have a building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal, in the heavens. For most assuredly in this we groan, longing to be clothed with our habitation which is from heaven; if so be that being clothed we will not be found naked.

For indeed we who are in this tent do groan, being burdened; not that we desire to be unclothed, but that we desire to be clothed, that what is mortal may be swallowed up by life. Now he who made us for this very thing is God, who also gave to us the down payment of the Spirit.

Being therefore always of good courage, and knowing that, while we are at home in the body, we are absent from the Lord; for we walk by faith, not by sight. We are of good courage, I say, and are willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be at home with the Lord.

Therefore also we make it our aim, whether at home or absent, to be well pleasing to him. For we must all be revealed before the judgement seat of Christ; that each one may receive the things in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad.

Knowing therefore the fear of the Lord, we persuade men, but we are revealed to God; and I hope that we are revealed also in your consciences.

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Wake-Up Music

Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs. - Colossians 3:16


In a suburb of Nairobi, Kenya, a group of international refugees has been singing sogs that they hope will wake up their homeland. According to the BBC, the group Waayah Cusub has been enjoying extensive airplay on radio stations and television channels by using bold lyrics to address social issues. One of the musicians says, "We are not happy with what is happening back home; in fact we have recorded a thought-provoking song that we hope will bring our leaders back to their senses."

Long before Waayah Cusub began using songs to call for an end to social pain and violence, GOd taught Moses to use music in a bold and provocative way. Knowing that His people's sinful inclinations would distract them when they began to enjoy the prosperity of the Promised Land (Deut. 31:21), God told Moses to teach them the song of chapter 32. It is a shocking song of warning, designed to get the attention of those who would forget God and fill their lives with trouble.

Could our wise and loving God be repeating that strategy with us? Is there a psalm, a hymn, or a spiritual song that is calling us back to His faithfulness and amazing grace? What song might He be using to get under the radar of our natural defenses an renew our hearts today? - Mart De Haan


Come, Thou fount of every blessing,
Tune my heart to sing Thy grace;
Streams of mercy, never ceasing,
Call for songs of loudest praise. - Robinson

Where words fail, music speaks. - Hans Christian Anderson

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Deuteronomy 31:16-22

Yahweh said to Moses, Behold, you shall sleep with your fathers; and this people will rise up, and play the prostitute after the strange gods of the land, where they go to be among them, and will forsake me, and break my convenant which I have made with them.

Then my anger shall be kindled against them in that day, and I will forsake them, and I will hide my face from them, and they shall be devoured, and many evils and troubles shall come on them; so that they will say in that day, Haven't these evils come on us because our God is not among us?

I will surely hide my face in that day for all the evil which they shall have worked, in that they are turned to other gods. Now therefore write you this song for you, and teach you it the children of Israel: put it in their mouths, that this song may be a witness for me against the children of Israel.

For when I shall have brought them into the land which I swore to their fathers, flowing with milk and honey, and they shall have eaten and filled themselves, and grown fat; then will they turn to other gods, and serve them, and despise me, and break my covenant.

It shall happen, when many evils and troubles are come on them, that this song shall testify them as a witness; for it shall not be forgotten out of the mouths of their seed: for I know their imagination which they frame this day, before I have brought them into the land which I swore. So Moses wrote this song the same day, and taught it the children of Israel.

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The Gift Of Self-Indulgene

She and her daughter had pride, fullness of food, and abundance of idleness; neither did she strengthen the hand of the poor and needy. - Ezekiel 16:49


An upscale London department store launched a new gift card with the slogan, "The Gift of Self-Indulgence." Throughout the store, signs, slogans, and even nametags called attention to the cards. According to one employee, sales of the gift cards during the first weeks of the promotion had been very strong, far exceeding company expectations. Generosity may prompt a person to give a luxurious gift to someone special, but too often we find it easier to purchase what we want for ourselves.

The prophet Ezekiel sheds light on an ancient city whose people suffered God's judgement, in part, because they embraced a self-indulgent lifestyle. "This was the iniquity of your sister Sodom: She and her daughter had pride, fullness of food, and abundance of idleness; neither did she strengthen the hand of the poor and needy. And they were haughty and commited abomination before Me; therefore I took them away as I saw fit" (Ezek. 16:49-50).

Historically, the Lord has dealt harshly with His people who became arrogant, overfed, and unconcerned (v.49). The antidote to the poison of self-indulgence is the desire to please God and serve others, not ourselves (Phil. 2:4).

Self0indulgence is a gift we don't need. - David C. McCasland


Some are discouraged and weary in heart,
Help somebody today!
Someone the journey to heaven should start,
Help somebody today! - Breck

The more we serve Christ, the less we serve self.

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Ezekiel 16:48-57

As I live, says the Lord Yahweh, Sodom your sister has not done, she nor her daughters, as you have done, you and your daughters. Behold, this way the iniquity of your sister Sodom: pride, fullness of bread, and prosperous ease was in her and in her daughters; neither did she strengthen the hand of the poor and needy.

They were haughty, and committed abomination before me: therefore I took them away as I saw. Neither has Samaria commited half of your sins; but you have multiplied your abominations more than they, and have justified your sisters by all your abominations which you have done.

You also, bear you your own shame, in that you have given judgement for your sisters; through your sins that you have committed more abominable than they, they are more righteous that you: yes, be also confounded, and bear your shame, in that you have justified your sisters.

I will turn again their captivity, the captivity of Sodom and her daughters, and the captivity of Samaria and her daughters, and the captivity of your captives in the midst of them; that you may bear your own shame, and may be ashamed because of all that you have done, in that you are a comfort to them.

Your sisters, Sodom and her daughters, shall return to their former estate; and Samaria and her daughters shall return to their former estate; and you and your daughters shall return to your former estate.

For your sister Sodom was not mentioned by your mouth in the day of your pride, before your wickedness was uncovered, as at the time of the reproach of the daughters of Syria, and of all who are round about her, the daughters of the Philistines, who do despite to you and round about.

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The Secret Is

We speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, the hidden wisdom which God ordained before te ages. - 1 Corinthians 2:7


If you believe Rhonda Byrne, author of the bestselling book The Secret, "The shortcur to anything you want in your life is to be and feel happy now!" According to Byrne, this has to do with something called the law of attraction. If you think only about things that make you happy, she says, happy things will be attracted to you.

Sounds easy enough.

However, the Bible says that "the secret" to life is something very different. It has to do with "the law of the Spirit of life" that sets us free from "the law of sin and death" (Rom.8:2), not with the "law of attraction."

According to the apostle Paul, the most important thing to know is "Jesus Christ and Him crucified" (1 Cor. 2:2). To those who are concerned with happiness now, this is indeed foolisness (v.14). They do not recognize the power of God in what appears to them as weakness.

The Lord created us with a desire to know what is secret. In His wisdom, He kept certain things hidden in mystery for a time (v.7). But now, through His holy Spirit, He has made them known. And the secret He reveals has nothing to do with having happy thoughts in order to obtain happy things; it has to do with having the mind of Jesus Christ (v.16). - Julie Ackerman Link


There is a law that made us free -
In Romans 8 this truth is heard;
The secret is to walk with God
And daily lean upon His Word. - Hess

To know lasting happiness, we must get to know Jesus.

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1 Corinthians 2:6-16

We speak wisdom, however, among these who are full grown; yet a wisdom not of this world, nor the rulers of this world, who are coming to nothing.

But we speak God's wisdom in a mystery, the wisdom that has been hidden, which God foreordained before the worlds for our glory, which none of the rulers of this world has known. For had they known it, they wouldn't have crucified the Lord of glory.

But as it is written, "Things which an eye didn't see, and an ear didn't hear, Which didn't enter into the heart of man, These God has prepared for those who love him." But to us, God revealed them through the Spirit. For the Spirit searches all things, yes, the deep things of God.

For who among men knows the things of a man, except the spirit of the man, which is in Him? Even so, no one knows the things of God, except God's Spirit. But we received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit which is from God, that we might know the things that were freely given to us by God.

Which things also we speak, not in words which man's wisdom teaches, but which the Holy Spirit teaches, comparing spiritual things with spiritual things. Now the natural man doesn't receive the things of God's Spirit, for they are foolishness to him, and he can't know them, because they are spiritually discerned.

But he who is spiritual discerns all things, and himself is judged by no one. "For who has known the mind of the Lord, that he should instruct him?" But we have Christ's mind.

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Making The Cut

[Jesus] said to them, "Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men." - Matthew 4:19


Eery year, high-school seniors apply to their favorite universities and then watch the mailbox for the letter announcing their accpetance.

It was different for teens in New Testament times. Jewish boys would often attend rabbinical schools until age 13. Then only the best and brightest would be chosen to "follow" the local rabbi. This small, select group of disciples would go where he went and eat what he ate - modeling their lives after the rabbi. Those who won't didn't make the cut would pick up a trade like carpentry, sheep-herding, or fishing.

Guys like Simon, Andrew, James, and John hadn't made the cut. So instead of following the local rabbi, they were down by the docks, knee-deep in the family business. It's interesting that Jesus sougth out the men the local rabi had rejected. Instead of targeting the best and brightest, Jesus offered His invitation, "Follow Me," to ordinary run-of-the-mill fishermen. What an honor! They would become followers of the ultimate Rabbi.

Jesus extends the same honor to you and me - not because we are the best or brightest, but because He needs ordinary people like us to model His life and to lovingly rescue people on His behalf. So, follow Him and let Him make something of your life! - Joe Stowell


As followers of Jesus
Who love Him from heart,
We may be ordinary,
But we've been set apart. - Sper

Even the ordinary and the outcast can make the cut to follow Jesus.

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Matthew 4:18-22

Walking by the sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers: Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew, his brother, casting a net into the sea; for they were fishermen. He said to them, "Come after me, and I will make you fishers of men." They immediately left their nets and followed him.

Going on from there, he saw two brothers, James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, in the boat with Zebedee their father, mending their nets. He called them. They immediately left the boat and their father, and followed him.

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Getting Better

I am hard-pressed between the two, having a desire to depart and be with Christ, which is far better. - Philippians 1:23


A popular song from the 1960s was titled "Getting Better." In it, the singer considers his young life and happily declares that he sees things "getting better all the time." It is a song of optimism but, unfortunately without any real basis for that hope.

By contrast, the Bible warns us that we live in a world that in many ways is actually getting worse (2 Tim. 3:13). Daily we're faced with increasing evidence to support that contention. So how do we respond to the realities of life in such a badly marred world? With empty optimism? With hopeless discouragement? The apostle Paul shows us how.

While imprisoned in Rome, Paul wrote to the church at Philippi to offer them genuine hope in a broken world. He encouraged his readers by telling them that though life in this world is often hard and painful, for the Christian things will get better. He wrote, "I am hard-pressed between the two, having a desire to depart and be with Christ, which is far better" (Phil. 1:23). It is a reminder to us that we can face the difficulties of living for Christ now because one day we will be with Him in an eternal home of splendor and fullness.

Life can be hard, but one day when we see Christ it will truly get better! - Bill Crowder


To see His face, this is my goal,
The deepest longing of my soul;
Through storm and stress my path I'll trace
Till, satisfied, I see His face! - Chisholm

To be with Jesus forever in the sum of all happiness.

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Philippians 1:19-26

For I know that this will turn out to my salvation, through your supplication and the supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ, according to my earnest expectation and hope, that I will in no way be disappointed, but with all boldness, as always, now also Christ will be magnified in my body, whether by life, or by death.

For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. But if I live on in the flesh, this will bring fruit from my work; yet I don't make known what I will choose. But I am in a dilemma between the two, having the desire to depart and be with Christ, which is far better.

Yet, to remain in the flesh is more needful for your sake. Having this confidence, I know that I will remain, yes, and remain with you all, for your progress and joy in the faith, that your rejoicing may abound in Christ Jesus in me through my presence with you again.

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Magnets And Mothers

Honor your father and your mother,as the Lord your God has commanded you. - Deuteronomy 5:16


A teacher gave her class of second-graders a lesson about the magnet and what it does. The next day, in a written test, she included this question: "My name has six letters. The first one is m. I pick up things. What am I?" When the test papers were turned in, the teacher was astonished to find that almost 50 percent of the students answered the question with the word mother.

Yes, mothers do pick up things. But they are much more than "magnets," gathering up clothes and picking up toys around the house. As willing as many mothers are to do such chores, they have a higher calling than that.

A good mother loves her family and provides an atmosphere where each member can find acceptance, security, and understanding. She is there when the children need a listening ear, a comforting word, a warm hug, or a loving touch on a fevered brow. And for the Christian mother, her greatest joy is in teaching her children to trust and to love Jesus as their Savior.

That kind of mother deserves to be honored - not just on one special day a year but every day. And that recognition should involve more than words; it ought to be shown in respect, thoughtfulness, and loving deeds. - Richard De Haan


Of all the earthly things God gives,
There's one above all others:
It is the precious, priceless gift
Of loving Christian mothers. - Anon

Godly mothers not only bring you up, they bring you to God.

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Proverbs 31:26-31

Childlike Faith

The things which are impossible with men are possible with God. - Luke 18:27


On the way home from a family camping trip, 6-year-old Tanya and her dad were the only ones still awake in the car. As Tanya looked at the full moon through the car window, she asked, "Daddy, do you think I can touch the moon if I stand on my tiptoes?"

"No, I don't think so," he smiled.

"Can you reach it?"

"No, I don't think I can either."

She was quiet for a moment, then she said confidently, "Daddy, maybe if you hold me up on your shoulders?"

Faith? Yes - the childlike faith that daddies can do anything. True faith, though, has the written promise of God for its foundation. In Hebrews 11:1, we read, "Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen." Jesus talked a lot about faith, and throughout the Gospels we read of His response to those who had great faith.

When a paralyzed man's friends brought him to Jesus, He "saw their faith," forgave the man of his sins, and healed him (Matt. 9:2-6). When the centurion asked Jesus to "speak a word, and my servant will be healed" (8:8), Jesus "marveled" and said, "I have not found such great faith" (8:10).

When we have faith in God, we will find that all things are possible (Luke 18:27). - Cindy Hess Kasper


God, give me the faith of a little child
Who trusts so implicitly,
Who simply and gladly believes Thy Word,
And never would question Thee. - Showerman

A childlike faith unlocks the door to the kingdom of heaven.

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Matthew 8:5-10

When he came into Capernaum, a centurion came to him, asking him, and saying, "Lord, my servant lies in the house paralized, grievouly tormented."

Jesus said to him, "I will come and heal him." The centurion answered, "Lord, I'm not worthy for you to come under my roof. Just say the word, and my servant will be healed. For I am also a man under authority, having under myself soldiers. I tell this one, 'Go,' and he goes; and tell another, 'Come,' and he comes; and tell my servant, 'Do this,' and he does it."

When Jesus heard it, he marvealed, and said to those who followed, "Most assuredly I tell you, I haven't found so great a faith, not even in Israel.

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In Every Bad Experience

Now I know that is no God in all the earth, except in Israel. - 2 Kings 5:15


When I rear-ended a truck with my nearly new car, positive thoughts did not immediately come to mind. I was thinking primarily of the cost, the incovenience, and the injury to my ego. But I did find some hope in this thought, which I often share with other writers: "In every bad experience, there's a good illustration."

Finding the good can be a challenge, but Scripture confirms that God uses bad circumstances for good purposes.

In 2 Kings 5, we find two people who had bad things happen to them. First is a young girl from Israel who was taken captive by the Syrian army. Second is Naaman, the commander of the army, who had leprosy. Even though the girl had good reason to desire bad things for her captors, she offered a help instead. Israel's prophet Elisha, she said, could heal Naaman. Eager to be cured, Naaman went to Israel. However, he was reluctant to follow Elisha's humiliating directions. When he finally did, he was healed, which caused him to proclaim that Israel's God is the only God (v.15).

God used two bad things - a kidnapping and a deadly disease - to change Israel's enemy into a friend. Even when we don't know why something bad has happened, we know that God has the power to use it for good. - Julie Ackerman Link


His purposes will ripen fast,
Unfolding every hour;
The bad may have a bitter taste
But sweet will be the flower. - Cowper

God is the master of turning burdens into blessings.

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2 Kings 5:1-15

Now Naaman, captain of the host of the king of Syria, was a great man with his master, and honorable, because by him Yahweh had given victory to Syria: he was also a mighty man of valor, a leper.

The Syrians had gone out in bands, and had brought away captive out of the land of Israel a little maiden; and she waited on Naaman's wife. She said to her mistress, Would that my lord were with the prophet who is Samaria! then would he recover him of his leprosy.

One went in, and told his lord, saying, Thus and thus said the maiden who is of the land of Israel. The king of Syria said, Go now, and I will send a letter to the king of Israel. He departed, and took him ten talents of silver, and six thousand of gold, and ten changes of clothing. He brought the letter to the king of Israel, saying, Now when this letter is come to you, behold, I have sent Naaman my servant to you, that you may recover him of his leprosy.

It happened, when the king of Israel had read the letter, that he tore his clothes, and said, Am I God, to kill and to make alive, that this man does send to me to recover a man of his leprosy? but consider, I pray you, and see how he seeks a quarrel against me.

It was so, when Elisha the man of God heard that the king of Israel had torn his clothes, that he sent to the king, saying, Why have you torn your clothes? let him come now to me, and he shall know that there is a prophet in Israel.

So Naaman came with his horses and with his chariots, and stood at the door of the house of Elisha. Elisha sent a messenger to him, saying, Go and wash in the Jordan seven times, and your flesh shall come again to you, and you shall be clean.

But Naaman was angry, and went away, and said, Behold, I thought, He will surely come out to me, and stand, and call on the name of Yahweh his God, and wave his hand over the place, and recover the leper.

Aren't Abanah and Pharpar, the rivers of Damascus, better that all the waters of Israel? may I not wash in them, and be clean? So he turned and went away in a rage. His servants came near, and spoke to him, and said, My father, if the prophet had bid you do some great thing, wouldn't you have done it? how much rather then, when he says to you, Wash, and be clean?

Then went he down, and dipped seven times in the Jordan, according to the saying of the man of God; and his flesh came again like the flesh of a little child, and he was clean.

He returned to the man of God, he and all his company, and came, and stood before him; and he said, See now, I know that there is no God in all the earth, but in Israel: now therefore, please take a present from your servant.

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The Difference Prayer Makes

The smoke of the incense, with the prayers of the saints, ascended before God. Revelation 8:4


Does prayer have any real impact on our world? Or is it merely a private conversation with God?

When a New Jersey couple learned that a man had been released form prison and had move into their area, they started praying for him. Then they paid him a visit and opened their home to a weekly breakfast for ex-offenders like him. Now, 22 years later, the area's most despised men have one place to go where they are welcomed and treated respecfully.

What would happen if we followed literally Jesus' command to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us? What if we became known for approaching heaven on behalf of outcasts and disagreeable people?

In a scene recorded in the book of Revelation, the apostle John foresees a direct linkage between the visible and invisible worlds. At a climatic moment in hostory, heaven is quiet. Seven angels stands with seven trumpets, waiting. Silence reigns, as if all heaven is listening on tiptoe. Then an angel collects the prayers of God's people onl earth - all the accumulated prayers of praise, lament, abandonment, despair, petition - mixes them with incense, and presents them before the throne of God (8:1-4). The silence finally breaks when the fragrant prayers are hurled down to earth: setting off a storm of "thunderings, lightning, and an earthquake" (v.5).

The message is clear. The prayer are essential agents in the final victory over evil, suffering, and death. - Philip Yancey


God's work is done by those who pray.

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Revelation 8:1-5

When he opened the seventh seal, there was silence in heaven for about half an hour. I saw the seven angels who stand before God, and seven trumphet were given to them.

Another angel came and stood over the altar, having a golden censer. Much incense was given to him, that he should add it to the prayers of all the saints on the golden altar which was before the throne.

The smoke of the incense, with the prayer of the saints, went up before God our of the angel's hand. The angel took the censer, and he filled it with the fire of the altar, and threw it on the earth. There followed thunders, sounds, lightnings, and an earthquake.

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At Just The Right Time

When the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son. - Galatians 4:4


Why is being on time so challenging for some of us? Even when we start early, something enevitably gets in our way to make us late.

But here's the good news: God is always on time! Speaking of the arrival of Jesus, Paul said, "When the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son" (Gal. 4:4). The long-awaited, promised Savior came a just the right time.

Jesus' arrival during the Roman Empire's Pax Romana (the peace of Rome) was perfect timing. The known world has united by one language of commerce. A network of global trade routes provided open access to the whole world. All of this guaranteed that the gospel could move rapidly in one tongue. No visas. No impenetrable borders. Onlu unhindered access to help spread the news of the Savior whose crucifixion fulfilled the prophecy of the Lamb who would be slain for our sins (Isa. 53). All in God's perfect timing!

All of this should remind us that the Lord knowd what time is best for us as well. If you're waiting for answered prayer or the fulfillment of one of His promises, don't give up. If you think He has forgotten you, think again. When the fullness of time is right for you, He'll show up - and you'll be amazed by His brilliant timing! - Joe Stowell


Not ours to know the reason why
Unanswered is our prayer,
But ours to waiit for God's own time
To lift the cross we bear. - Anon

God's timing is always perfect.

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Galatians 4:1-7

But I say that so long as the heir is a child, he is no different from a bondservant, though he is lord of all; but is under guardians and stewards until the day appointed by the father.

So we also, when we were children, were held in bondage under the elements of the world. But when the fullness of the time came,

God sent out his Son, born to a woman, born under the law, that he might redeem those who were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of children. And because you are children, God sent out the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying Abba, Father!"

So you are no longer a bondservant, but a son; and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ.

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Always be patient while waiting His answer... for something that He loves... but obey to His plan if not prepared for you...

Still Small Voice

Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth! - Psalm 46:10


When God spoke to Elijah on Mount Horeb, He could have done so in the wind, earthquake, or fire. But He didn't. He spoke with a "still small voice" (1 Kings 19:12). God asked, "What are you doing here, Elijah?" (v.13), as he hid from Jezebel who had threatened to kill him.

Elijah's reply revealed what God already knew - the depth of his fear and discouragement. He said, in effect, "Lord, I have been most zealous when others have forsaken You. What do I get for being the only one standing up for You?" (v.14).

Was Elijah really the only one serving God? No. God had "seven thousand in Israel... whose knees have not bowed to Baal" (v.18).

In the depths of our fear or despair, we too may think we're the only one serving God. That may happen right after the height of a seccess, as it did for Elijah. Psalm 46:10 reminds us to "be still, and know" that He is God. The sooner we focus on Him and His power, the quicker we will see relief from our fear and self-pity.

Both the clashing clashing cymbals of our failures and the loud trumpeting of our successes can drown out God's still small voice. It's time for us to quiet our hearts to listen for Him as we meditate on His Word. - Albert Lee


Keep listening for the "still small voice"
If you are weary on life's road;
The Lord will make your heart rejoice
If you will let Him take your load. - Hess

To tune in to God's voice we must tune out this world's noise.

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1 Kings 19:11-18

He said, Go forth, and stand on the mountain before Yahweh.

Behold, Yahweh passed by, and a great and strong wind tore the mountains, and broke in pieces the rocks before Yahweh; but Yahweh was not in the wind: and after the wind an earthquake; but Yahweh was not in the earthquake: and after the earthquake a fire; but Yahweh was not in the fire: and after the fire a still small voice.

It was so, when Elijah heard it, that he wrapped his face in his mantle, and went out, and stood in the entrance of the cave. Behold, there came a voice to him, and said, What are you doing here, Elijah?

He said, I have been very jealous for Yahweh, the God of hosts; for the children of Israel have forsaken your covenant, thrown down your altars, and slain your prophets with the sword; and I, even I only, am left; and they seek my life, to take it away.

Yahweh said to him, Go, return on your way to the wilderness of Damascus: and when you come, you shall anoint Hazael to be king over Syria; and Jehu the son of Nimshi shall you anoint to be king over Israel; and Elisha the son of Shaphat of Abel Meholah shall you anoint to be prophet in your room.

It shall happen, that he who escapes from the sword of Hazael shall Jehu kill; and he who escaped from the sword of Jehu shall Elisha kill.

Yet will I leave seven thousand in Israel, all the knees which have not bowed to Baal, and every mouth which has not kissed him.

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Connectors

From you the word of the Lord has sounded forth, not only in Macedonia and Achaia, but also in every place. - 1 Thessalonians 1:8


Marketing professionals have known for years that a product recommendation from a friend is among the most effective means of adverstising. That's why many large companies recruit consumers who receive free samples of their products along with the encouragement to recommend them to family and friends. One major US corporation regularly sends coupons and products to 725,000 selected people called "connectors," who spread the word to others.

The gospel of Jesus Christ is more than a product. It is God's great plan for bringing people into a living vital relationship with Him. But the gospel is conveyed most effectively by example and by word of mouth. Paul commended the Christians at Thessalonica for their examplary living and their effective withness: "From you the word of the Lord has sounded forth... Your faith toward God has gone out, so that we do not need to say anything" (1 Thess. 1:8). Because their lives had been radically changed (v.9), they found it impossible to keep silent about their faith.

A university professor who trains advertising professionals says, "It's human nature to talk about things that excite us." God's grace is all the incentive we need to recommend our Savior to a friend. - David C. McCasland


I'll tell the world how Jesus saved me
And how He gave me a life brand new;
And I know that if you trust Him
That all He gave me He'll give to you. - Fox

If you want others to know what Christ will do for them, tell them what He has done for you.

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1 Thessalonica 1:2-10

We always give thanks to God for all of you, mentioning you in our prayers, remembering without ceasing your work of faith and labor of love and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ, before our God and Father.

We know, brothers loved by God, that you are chosen, and that our gospel came to you not in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Spirit, and with much assurance. You know what kind of men we showed ourselves to be among you for your sake.

You became imitators of us, and of the Lord, having received the word in much affliction, with joy of the Holy Spirit, so that you became an example to all who believe in Macedonia and in Achaia.

For from you has sounded forth the word of the Lord, not only in Macedonia and Achaia, but also in every place your faith toward God gone forth; so that we need to say anything. For they themselves report concerning us what kind of a reception we had from you; and how you turned to God from idols, to serve a living and true God, and to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead - Jesus, who delivers us form the wrath to come.

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Eliana Level

Do this in remembrance of Me. - Luke 22:19


My wife babysits for our young granddaughter Eliana during the school year while her mom teachers. We do many things to make her feel at home. For example, we put pictures of her and her parents on our refrigerator at "Eliana level." That way she can see them or carry them around with her during the day. We want her to think of her mom and dad often throughout the day.

Why do this? Is there a chance she would forget them? Of course not. But it is comforting for her to have an ongoing remembrance of them.

Now think about this. Before Jesus was crucified, He created a remembrance of Himself. He told His disciples - and us by extension - to "do this [eat the bread and drink from the cup] in remembrance of Me" (Luke 22:19). Is this because we might forget Jesus? Of Course not! How could we forget the One who died for our sins? Yet He started this way of remembrance - the Lord's Supper - as a comforting reminder of His great sacrifice, His presence, His power, and His promises.

Just as Eliana's photos remind of her parents' love, so the celebration of communion provides a valuable reminder of the One who will come again to take us home.

Partake. And remember. - Dave Branon


But drops of grief can ne'er repay
The debt of love I owe;
Here, Lord, I give myself away -
Tis all that I can do. - Watts

Those who take their sin seriously remember Christ's cross gratefully.

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Luke 22:7-20

The day of unleavened bread came, on which the Passover must be sacrificed. He sent Peter and John, saying, "Go and prepare the Passover for us, that we may eat." They said to him, "Where do you want us to prepare?"

He said to them, "Behold, when you have entered into the city, a man carrying a pitcher of water will meet you. Follow him into the house which he enters. Tell the master of the house, 'The Teacher says to you, "Where is the guest room, where I may eat the Passover with my disciples?"' He will show you a large, furnished upper room. Make preparations there."

They went, found things as he had told them, and they prepared the Passover. When the hour had come, he sat down with the twelve apostles. He said to them, "I have earnestly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer, for I tell you, I will no longer by any means eat of it until it is fulfilled in the Kingdom of God."

He received a cup, and when he had given thanks, he said, "Take this, and share it among yourselves, for I tell you, I will not drink at all again from the fruit of the vine, until the Kingdom of God comes."

He took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it, and gave to them, saying, "This is my body which is given for you. Do this in memory of me." Likewise, he took up the cup after supper, saying, "This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you.

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The Work Of Our Hands

The righteous will be in everlasting remembrance. - Psalm 112:6


One reason we're left here on earth and not taken to heaven immediately after trusting in Christ for salvation is that God has work for us to do. "Man is immortal," Augustine said, "until his work is done."

The time for our death is not determined by anyone or anything here on earth. That decision is made in the councils of heaven. When we have done all that God has in mind for us to do, then and only then will He take us home - and not one second before. As Paul put it, "David, after he had served his own generation by the will of God, fell asleep" (Acts 13:36).

In the meantime, until God takes us home, there's plenty to do. "I must work the works of Him who sent Me while it is day," Jesus said. "Night is coming when no one can work" (John 9:4). Night is coming when we will once for all close our eyes to be with Him. Each day brings that time a little closer.

As long as we have the light of the day, we must work - not to conquer, acquire, accumulate, and retire, but to make visible the invisible Christ by touching people with His love. We can then be confident that our "labor is not in vain in the Lord" (1 Cor. 15:58). - David H. Roper


If you rely upon God's strength
And live a life that's true,
Then what you do in Jesus' name
Will be His work through you. - D. De Haan

In God's eyes, true greatness is serving others.

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Psalm 112

Praise Yah! Blessed is the man who fears Yahweh, Who delights greatly in his commandments. His seed will be mighty in the land. The generation of the upright will be blessed. Wealth and riches are in his house. His righteousness endures forever.

Light dawns in the darkness for the upright, Gracious, mercful, and righteous. It is well with the man who deals graciously and lends. He will maintain his cause in judgement. For he will never be shaken.

The righteous will be remembered forever. He will not be afraid of evil news. His heart is steadfast, trusting in Yahweh. His heart is established. He will not be afraid in the end when he sees his adversaries. He has dispersed, he has given to the poor. His righteousness endures forever.

His horn will be exalted with honor. The wicked will see it, and be grieved. He shall gnash with his teeth, and melt away. The desire of the wicked will perish.

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The Cheat Test

Direct my steps by Your Word, and let no iniquity have dominion over me. - Psalm 119:133


Dan Ariely, and economics professor at the Massachusetts institute of Technology, conducted some tests on human behavior. In one experiment, the participants took an examination in which they would receive money for each correct answer. The participants didn't know, however, that Ariely was not testing their knowledge but whether they would cheat. He set up the test so that the groups thought it would be easy to get away with cheating. Prior to taking the exam, one group was asked to write down as many of the Ten Commandments as they could remember. To Ariely's astonishment, none from this group cheated! But all the other groups did have those who cheated. Recalling a moral benchmark made the difference.

Centuries ago, the psalmist understood the need for a moral benchmark and asked for divine aid in following it. He prayed to the Lord, "Direct my steps by Your Word, and let no iniquity have dominion over Your Word, and let o iniquity have dominion over me... Teach me Your statutes" (Ps. 119:113-135).

Ariely's "cheat test" experiment illustrates our need for moral guidance. The Lord has given us his Word as a lamp for our feet and a ligt for our path (v. 105) to direct us in our moral choices. - Dennis Fisher


How precious is the Book divine
By inspiration given!
Bright as a lamp its doctrines shine,
To guide our souls to heaven. - Fawcett

Like a compass, the Bible always point us in the right direction.

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Psalm 119:129-136

Your testimonies are wonderful, Therefore my soul keeps them.

The entrance of your words gives light. It gives understanding to the simple. I opened my mouth wide and panted, For I longed for you commandments.

Turn to me, and have mercy on me, As you always do to those who love your name. Establish my footsteps in your word. Don't let any iniquity have dominion over me. Redeem me from the oppression of man, So I will observe your precepts.

Make your face shine on your servant. Teach me your statutes. Streams of tears run down my eyes, Because they don't observe your law.

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I Will Never Leave You

I am with you always, even to the end of the age. - Matthew 28:20


One of my ealiest memories of hearing good music was when a male quartet rehearsed at our home. I was about 10 years old, and I was especially attentive to my dad, who sang first tenor. One of the quartet's favorites was titled, "I Am With You." Even at that tender age, I not only appreaciated the music but I "got the message."

Those words of Jesus to His diciples just before He ascended - "I am with you always" - became precious to me as the quartet sang, "In the sunlight, in the shadow, I am with you where you go."

One of the first reference to God's unfailling presence was spoken by Moses in Deuteronomy 31:6-8, when he instructed his successor about leading God's people into the "land of promise." And Joshua himself heard the same word from the Lord, "As I was with Moses, so I will be with you. I will not leave you nor forsake you" (Josh. 1:5).

That promise is repeated in the New Testament, where the writer of Hebrews gave this assurance: "He Himself has said, 'I will never leave you nor forsake you'" (13:5).

Whenever you may be today, you are not alone. If you've placed your trust in Jesus for your eternal salvation, you can be certain that He will never leave you. - RBC Ministries


Jesus whispers "I am with you"
In the hour of deepest need;
When the way is dark and lonesome,
"I am with you, I will lead."- Morris

First make sure you are with Him, then you can be sure He'll be with you.

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Deuteronomy 31:1-8

Moses went and spoke these words to all Israel. He said to them, I am one hundred twenty years old this day; I can no more go out and come in; and Yahweh has said to me, You shall not go over this Jordan.

Yahweh your God, he will go over before you; he will destroy these nations from before you, and you shall dispossess them: [and] Joshua, he shall go over before you, as Yahweh has spoken.

Yahweh will do to them as he did to Sihon and to Og, the kings of the Amorites, and to their land; whom he destroyed. Yahweh will deliver them up before you, and you shall do to them according to all the commandment which I have commanded you.

Be strong and good courage, don't be afraid, not be scared of them: for Yahweh your God, he it is who does go with you; he will not fail you, nor forsake you.

Moses called to Joshua, and said to him in the sight of all Israel, Be strong and good courage: for you shall go with this people into the land which Yahweh has sworn to their fathers to give them; and you shall cause them to inherit it.

Yahweh, he it is who does go before you; he will be with you, he will not fail you, neither forsake you: don't be afraid, neither be dismayed.

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