8/1/99 1 Corinthians 12:4-7
Now there are different kinds of spiritual gifts, but it is the same Holy Spirit who is the source of them all. There are different kinds of service in the church, but it is the same Lord we are serving. There are different ways God works in our lives, but it is the same God who does the work in all of us. God manifests the Spirit through each person for the good of the entire church.
Hi, I’m Mike Clay with Today’s Good News.

Christ is all and in all. In Christ we find our access, unity, gifts and relationship to the Father and Holy Spirit. Jesus is the one. In him we become one. Turn your eyes upon Jesus. You will experience growth, encouragement, renewal and forgiveness. When we go to Jesus, we often find that the problems we are facing with others is caused by sin in our lives.

8/2/99 Romans 11: 29
God’s gifts and his call can never be withdrawn.
Hi, I’m Mike Clay with Today’s Good News.

God uses broken people. When we find ourselves on our knees before the Lord, we are in the proper position for the Father to call us for service. Until we experience brokenness we will not be able to get beyond our pride and self-sufficiency.

8/3/99 1 Corinthians 12:11
It is the same and only Holy Spirit who distributes these gifts. He alone decides which gift each person should have.
Hi, I’m Mike Clay with Today’s Good News.

I must always be what God created me to be. If I refuse to celebrate the gifts God gives me I will always see myself as unworthy and falling short. My gifts are the gifts for which the Lord holds me responsible. God loves me and the gifts He gave me were the ones He wanted me to have.

8/4/99 1 Corinthians 12: 27
Now all of you together are Christ’s body, and each one of you is a separate and necessary part of it.
Hi, I’m Mike Clay with Today’s Good News.

The ground at the Cross-is level. Each one of us is loved of God. Our gifts are not indicators of God’s love for us. Our gifts are marching orders for service. Christ is the proof of God’s love. Exercising my gifts is proof of my love for God.

8/5/99 Ephesians 4: 15-16
We will hold to the truth in love, becoming more and more in every way like Christ, who is the head of his body, the church. Under his direction, the whole body is fitted together perfectly. As each part does its own special work, it helps the other parts grow, so that the whole body is healthy and growing and full of love.
Hi, I’m Mike Clay with Today’s Good News.

We are works in progress. We strive mightily in full knowledge that we are engaged in spiritual warfare. Our strength is our faith not our accomplishments. All that we do we do as unto the Lord. When we fail we proceed rapidly into the presence of the Lord. He forgives and heals and sends us forth to serve. God uses broken vessels. When we find ourselves broken, get ready for service is at hand.

8/6/99 1 Corinthians 12: 24-26
So God has put the body together in such a way that extra honor and care are given to those parts that have less dignity. This makes for harmony among the members, so that all the members care for each other equally. If one part suffers, all the parts suffer with it, and if one part is honored, all the parts are glad.
Hi, I’m Mike Clay with Today’s Good News.

God loves people most of all. When the focus of our heart is Jesus, God will be glorified and people will be loved.

8/7/99 Ephesians 4: 11-13
(Christ) is the one who gave these gifts to the church: the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, and the pastors and teachers. Their responsibility is to equip God’s people to do his work and build up the church, the body of Christ, until we come to such unity in our faith and knowledge of God’s Son that we will be mature and full grown in the Lord, measuring up to the full stature of Christ.
Hi, I’m Mike Clay with Today’s Good News.

Our model for service is Jesus. We measure ourselves by Him. As we serve the Lord, we do not look to the left or right. Our eyes are upon the Living Lord and we are constantly seeking direction from Him. The bride of Christ is the church. Jesus loves the church. When we serve Jesus we will be active in the church and love it like Jesus does.

8/8/99 Romans 12:1
And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice—the kind he will accept. When you think of what he has done for you, is this too much to ask?
Hi, I’m Mike Clay with Today’s Good News.

Serving God is a daily event. We cannot rest today based on yesterday’s work. It is important for us to understand and remember that a relationship with the Living Lord Jesus is a now relationship. We can be obedience because we love Jesus. Sacrifice is what we do to serve the Lord. Not my will Father but your will.

8/9/99 Romans 12:2
Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will know what God wants you to do, and you will know how good and pleasing and perfect his will really is.
Hi, I’m Mike Clay with Today’s Good News.

God’s plan for my life is good. He wants the best for me. If I will put the Lord first, he will make the things I do a blessing to those I serve and to me. If I can maintain my focus on Jesus, and willingly set aside sin in my life, the result will be a life lived that will be a great blessing for me in my older years. The Lord builds a no regrets life. No regrets today, no regrets tomorrow and no regrets in eternity.

8/10/99 Romans 12:3-6
As God’s messenger, I give each of you this warning: Be honest in your estimate of yourselves, measuring your value by how much faith God has given you. Just as our bodies have many parts and each part has a special function, so it is with Christ’s body. We are all parts of his one body, and each of us has a different work to do. And since we are all one body in Christ, we belong to each other, and each of us needs all the others. Hi, I’m Mike Clay with Today’s Good News.

Our identity is in Christ. Changing the way we respond to worldly values is more than not touching and not tasting. It is a change in our hearts. We no longer want the forbidden things of this world. This is impossible to do unless a Christian is willing to make Christ the focus of his or her life. Jesus is all and in all. When He has all of us, we have all of Him.

8/11/99 Romans 12:6-8
God has given each of us the ability to do certain things well. So if God has given you the ability to prophesy, speak out when you have faith that God is speaking through you. If your gift is that of serving others, serve them well. If you are a teacher, do a good job of teaching. If your gift is to encourage others, do it! If you have money, share it generously. If God has given you leadership ability, take the responsibility seriously. And if you have a gift for showing kindness to others, do it gladly.
Hi, I’m Mike Clay with Today’s Good News.

Do what you can. Be who you are. Don’t evaluate yourself in light of the things you can’t do. Tithe what you have. Pray about what is affecting you. Forgive those who hurt you. Love those you are with.

8/12/99 1 Corinthians 12:29-31
Is everyone an apostle? Of course not. Is everyone a prophet? No. Are all teachers? Does everyone have the power to do miracles? Does everyone have the gift of healing? Or course not. Does God give to all of us the ability to speak in tongues? Can everyone interpret tongues? No! And in any event, you should desire the most helpful gifts.
Hi, I’m Mike Clay with Today’s Good News.

Use what you have to help others. Don’t wait until tomorrow or until you get more. Use what you have. Do what you can. Be about the Lord’s business now.

8/13/99 Matthew 6: 31-33
Don’t worry about having enough food or drink or clothing. Why be like the pagans who are so deeply concerned about these things? Your heavenly Father already knows all your needs, and he will give you all you need from day to day if you live for him and make the Kingdom of God your primary concern. Hi, I’m Mike Clay with Today’s Good News.

Have you ever worried about those dead in their trespasses and sin? Are you concerned about your son or daughter? Does your mate know Jesus? Worry about eternal things if you must worry. God will take care of you.

8/14/99 Matthew 7:13-14
You can enter God’s Kingdom only through the narrow gate. The highway to hell is broad, and its gate is wide for the many who choose the easy way. But the gateway to life is small, and the road is narrow, and only a few ever find it.
Hi, I’m Mike Clay with Today’s Good News.

What road are you on? Is Jesus Lord and Savior in your life? If you aren’t sure you are on the broad road. You are headed to hell. Better turn at the nearest intersection. Ask Christ right now to forgive you of your sin and be Lord of your life.

8/15/99 John 14:6
Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.”
Hi, I’m Mike Clay with Today’s Good News.

The way to the Father through Christ is wide enough for the whole world. This way creator is in charge. Not my way but His way, Christ is the only way.

8/16/99 Hebrews 3: 16-19
And who were those people who rebelled against God, even though they heard his voice? Weren’t they the ones Moses led out of Egypt? And who made God angry for forty years? Wasn’t it the people who sinned, whose bodies fell in the wilderness? And to whom was God speaking when he vowed that they would never enter his place of rest? He was speaking to those who disobeyed him. So we see that they were not allowed to enter his rest because of their unbelief.
Hi, I’m Mike Clay with Today’s Good News.

If I trust God, I will change my life. This is simple to understand and easy to implement. Note that this is not a statement of finality but a declaration of a journey. My life in Christ is a life that is constantly being changed into the likeness of the living Lord Jesus.

8/17/99 Hebrews 4:1-3
God’s promise of entering his place of rest still stands, so we ought to tremble with fear that some of you might fail to get there. For this Good News— that God has prepared a place of rest— has been announced to us just as it was to them. But it did them no good because they didn’t believe what God told them. For only we who believe can enter his place of rest.
Hi, I’m Mike Clay with Today’s Good News.

The heart is the place of change. First I must accept Christ as my Lord and Savior. Then, with a new heart I can begin to work under His direction changing the way I am and the things I do. When I come to Him and believe that He has given me a new heart then it will be possible for me to begin new life in Christ.

8/18/99 Hebrews 4: 6-7
So God’s rest is there for people to enter. But those who formerly heard the Good News failed to enter because they disobeyed God. So God set another time for entering his place of rest, and that time is today. God announced this through David a long time later in the words already quoted: “Today you must listen to his voice. Don’t harden your hearts against him.” Hi, I’m Mike Clay with Today’s Good News.

When we hear God speaking to us is the time to respond to the offer of salvation. We are not promised tomorrow only today. When your heart is warmed and you soul is yearning, that is the time to respond to Jesus.

8/19/99 Matthew 11: 28-30
Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke fits perfectly, and the burden I give you is light.”  Hi, I’m Mike Clay with Today’s Good News.

Jesus loves you. He will provide peace for your life. By faith you can find the comfort that you are looking for. You are not alone, nor are you at the mercy of the world. In Christ you can a meaningful life. Don’t despair. Don’t give up. At the point of your brokenness, Christ is waiting to provide healing.

8/20/99 Luke 12:22-24
Then turning to his disciples, Jesus said, “So I tell you, don’t worry about everyday life—whether you will have enough food to eat or clothes to wear. For life consists of far more than food or clothing. Look at the ravens. They don’t need to plant or harvest or put food in barns because God feeds them. And you are far more valuable to him than any birds!”  Hi, I’m Mike Clay with Today’s Good News.

Do your best and put the results in the Lord’s hands. We work and the Lord provides solutions. Stop worrying. Worry hurts you and disappoints the Father. God loves you and is thinking of you all the time. Trust the Lord. Stop worrying.

8/21/99 Luke 12: 25-26
Can all your worries add a single moment to your life? Of course not! And if worry can’t do little things like that, what’s the use of worrying over bigger things?   Hi, I’m Mike Clay with Today’s Good News.

It is more productive to pray than to worry. It is more productive to work hard than to worry. Worry is a negative activity whose only purpose is to destroy your peace. In Jesus we find peace and comfort for our soul. The Lord is on your side.

8/22/99 Luke 12: 33-34
Sell what you have and give to those in need. This will store up treasure for you in heaven! And the purses of heaven have no holes in them. Your treasure will be safe—no thief can steal it and no moth can destroy it. Wherever your treasure is, there will your heart and thoughts also be.  Hi, I’m Mike Clay with Today’s Good News.

When Jesus is our focus, ministry is the result. When money is our focus, heartache is the result. Set aside money goals and make the Kingdom of God central in your life. Work hard, serve God and our eternal treasure will grow. Wealth comes to some in the form of money, but all of us can have wealth in our relationship with the Father.

8/23/99 Luke 12:35-37
Be dressed for service and well prepared, as though you were waiting for your master to return from the wedding feast. Then you will be ready to open the door and let him in the moment he arrives and knocks. There will be special favor for those who are ready and waiting for his return.  Hi, I’m Mike Clay with Today’s Good News.

Are you ready for the judgement day? Christ is coming back. You will not live forever. Our lives pass by in a flash. Lives lived carelessly have a way of vanishing before the careless one realizes it. Jesus could come back today. Are you ready?

8/24/99 Romans 14:1-3
Accept Christians who are weak in faith, and don’t argue with them about what they think is right or wrong. For instance, one person believes it is all right to eat anything, But another believer who has a sensitive conscience will eat only vegetables. Those who think it is alright to eat anything must not look down on those who won’t. And those who won’t eat certain foods must not condemn those who do, for God has accepted them. Hi, I’m Mike Clay with Today’s Good News.

We are all weak in some areas of our faith and strong in other areas. The sooner we recognize that we are sojourners in this world and that this place is not our home we will begin to think properly about those that we live with. People count most of all with the Lord and we are called to make people count most of all in our daily lives. Watch what you say, take care with what you do.

8/25/99 Romans 14:12-13
Each of us will have to give a personal account to God. So don’t condemn each other anymore. Decide instead to live in such a way that you will not put an obstacle in another Christian’s path. Hi, I’m Mike Clay with Today’s Good News.

God has His eye on you. He sees everything single thing you do. It is recorded and remembered. You are your brother or sister’s keeper. Be hard on your self and gentle with others. Not the reverse.

8/26/99 Romans 14:17-19
For the Kingdom of God is not a matter of what we eat or drink, but of living a life of goodness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. If you serve Christ with this attitude, you will please God. And other people will approve of you, too. So then, let us aim for harmony in the church and try to build each other up. Hi, I’m Mike Clay with Today’s Good News.

Think about Jesus. When you rise, when you walk, when you study, when you fail, when you talk, at all times think about the risen Lord. When you do this you will develop wisdom and restraint. As you grow you will become more like Jesus.

8/27/99 John 15:5
(Jesus said: ) I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing. Hi, I’m Mike Clay with Today’s Good News.

Soul winning, prayer, peace, joy, and love are included in fruit bearing. You just cannot do the work of God without being under the control of Jesus. He will direct your path and give you guidance for living.

8/28/99 John 15: 7-8
But if you stay joined to me and my word remains in you, you may ask any request you like, and it will be be granted! My true disciples produce much fruit. This brings great glory to my father. Hi, I’m Mike Clay with Today’s Good News.

God is glorified when we surrender ourselves to Jesus. We can do nothing apart from Him. When we let Jesus control our lives He will direct our path. Time with Jesus takes time. We are to allocate our time to include Bible reading, prayer time and reflection time. Time with the Lord is time well spent.

8/29/99 Matthew 28:18-20
Jesus came and told his disciples, “I have been given complete authority in heaven and on earth. Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the command I have given you, and be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”  Hi, I’m Mike Clay with Today’s Good News.

The last words of a good friend are important. Jesus told his disciples that they were under his authority and that they should do the things that He had done. We are to be busy as the Lord’s representative in this life. Jesus will never leave us. We are not alone. Our call is to tell what He is doing in our lives.

8/30/99 Matthew 7:24-25
(Jesus said: ) Anyone who listens to my teaching and obeys me is wise, like a person who builds a house on solid rock. Though the rain comes in torrents and the floodwaters rise and the winds beat against that house, it won’t collapse, because it is built on rock.  Hi, I’m Mike Clay with Today’s Good News.

We are to listen and do. The doing must become a consistent part of our lives. If I listen and believe, I will do. How do I evaluate my Christian walk? By looking at my behavior and attitude. If it is Christlike then I am growing. If I continue to act like a pagan, then there is a disconnect in my Christian walk. I need to go back to Jesus, ask for forgiveness and strength to change and change. God is interested in my obedience.

8/31/99 Matthew 7:12
(Jesus said: ) Do for others what you would like them to do for you. This is a summary of all that is taught in the law and the prophets.  Hi, I’m Mike Clay with Today’s Good News.

The Golden Rule is an affirmation in a positive way of my responsibility for my brother or sister. I am to do for not to ignore or evade. When we treat others like we ourselves want to be treated we grow. When we do for others what we want them to do for us, we find that the true gift is the giving. We grow when we give like Jesus gave.

7/1/99 Romans 6: 15-16
So since God’s grace has set us free from the law, does this mean we can go on sinning? Of course not! ¹⁶Don’t you realize that whatever you choose to obey becomes your master? You can choose sin, which leads to death, or you can choose to obey God and receive his approval.
Hi, I’m Mike Clay with Today’s Good News.

When we come into the Family of God, we are responsible to choose our lifestyle. I can become as much like Jesus as I want. In Christ, I am no longer a slave to the flesh. In Christ I can grow in likeness to Him. I choose not the evil one. I am the one that is responsible for the way that I live.

7/2/99 Galatians 5:1
So Christ has really set us free. Now make sure that you stay free, and don’t get tied up again in slavery to the law.
Hi, I’m Mike Clay with Today’s Good News.

Never forget that the easy way is most often the wrong way. When I am confronted with the choices of life, I must choose how I will respond. Each point of choice requires me to evaluate the type of response I will make. Christ calls me to do the right thing. The flesh wants me to respond mindlessly to people and live a self centered life. It is my choice.

7/3/99 James 1:25
But if you keep looking steadily into God’s perfect law—the law that sets you free—and if you do what it says and don’t forget what you heard, then God will bless you for doing it. Hi, I’m Mike Clay with Today’s Good News.

God created me to obey Him. In Christ, I have perfect freedom to obey God. My obedience to God creates a successful lifestyle and a Godly life. God wants me to succeed. The only way I can do that is by a lifestyle of obedience.

7/4/99 Psalms 33:12
What joy for the nation whose God is the Lord, whose people he has chosen for his own.
Hi, I’m Mike Clay with Today’s Good News.

God is completely trustworthy. I am disappointed in myself when I respond to life with inconsistency. Sometimes I am surprised by the way that I respond. God never surprises us with uncertainty. He is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow. The Eternal Living God is worthy of all of our devotion and obedience. He is trustworthy.

7/5/99 Psalm 11: 5 – 7
The LORD examines both the righteous and the wicked. He hates everyone who loves violence. He rains down blazing coals on the wicked, punishing them with burning sulfur and scorching winds. For the Lord is righteous, and he loves justice. Those who do what is right will see his face.
Hi, I’m Mike Clay with Today’s Good News.

God’s tests for some are a refining fire. Someone outside of God’s control in the same circumstances will find the same test an incinerator of destruction. Our tests are not an indication of our value. The way we respond to the test is the key indicator. Our responsibility is to do the next right thing. Bless the Lord for He is in control.

7/6/99 Proverbs 13:2
Good people enjoy the positive results of their words, but those who are treacherous crave violence.
Hi, I’m Mike Clay with Today’s Good News.

Our heart is the rudder for the works of our hands. A child of God acts like a child of God. A child of Satan acts like Satan. We must pay careful attention to the way that we act. Our actions may be the only New Testament that a lost person ever reads. Jesus died that all might be saved.

7/7/99 Ezekiel 8:17-18
“Have you seen this, son of man,” (God) asked (Ezekiel). “Is it nothing for the people of Judah that they commit these terrible sins, leading the whole nation into violence, thumbing their noses at me, rousing my fury against them? Therefore, I will deal with them in fury. I will neither pity nor spare them. And although they scream for mercy, I will not listen.”
Hi, I’m Mike Clay with Today’s Good News.

The wrath of God is a terrible thing to contemplate. The admonition by Ezekiel warns us that what we think about God by the way we live is an indicator of our relationship with God. Going to church, God-talk, and religious trappings don’t save us. Christ said that He was the way, the truth and the life. He also said that He, Jesus, was the only way we could be saved. There is salvation in no one else.

7/8/99 Jonah 3:7-10
Then the king and his nobles sent this decree throughout the city: “No one, not even the animals, may eat or drink anything at all. Everyone is required to wear sackcloth and pray earnestly to God. Everyone must turn from their evil ways and stop all their violence. Who can tell? Perhaps even yet God will have pity on us and hold back his fierce anger from destroying us.”
When God saw that they had put a stop to their evil ways, he had mercy on them and didn’t carry out the destruction he had threatened.
Hi, I’m Mike Clay with Today’s Good News.

Change. Look at the way you are living and change. The best of us too easily establish lifestyles that alienate us from God. Plow up the hard ground of your heart and change. Before it is too late, change. God wants each one of us to be constantly changing into the likeness of Jesus. Change.

7/09/99 Psalm 72:12-14
(The LORD) will rescue the poor when they cry to him; he will help the oppressed, who have no one to defend them. He feels pity for the weak and the needy and he will rescue them. He will save them from oppression and from violence, for their lives are precious to him.
Hi, I’m Mike Clay with Today’s Good News.

God says that He loves that bedraggled homeless person you saw on the street. God says that that poor needy soul is precious to Him. What did you think? What was your evaluation? God says that He takes a personal interest, a special interest in the poor and needy. What kind of interest are you taking?

7/10/99 Psalm 34:14
Turn away from evil and do good. Work hard at living at peace with others.
Hi, I’m Mike Clay with Today’s Good News.

The next time you find yourself caught up in evil, turn away from and immediately do something good. It really is simple for God’s children to survive and overcome the evil one. Don’t wring your hands about the power of sin. Don’t cry for God to intervene. Stop doing evil and do good. This is a simple way that we can claim the power of God and defeat sins hold on us. Do it.

7/11/99 Psalm 37: 37-38
Look at those who are honest and good, for a wonderful future lies before those who love peace. But the wicked will be destroyed; they have no future.
Hi, I’m Mike Clay with Today’s Good News.

God is on my side. I am sincerely striving to live a Christ like life and some days fail miserably. When I stop and go to the Lord, He reminds me that He is on my side.

7/12/99 Isaiah 52: 7
How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news of peace and salvation, the news that the God of Israel reigns!
Hi, I’m Mike Clay with Today’s Good News.

Everyone needs the Lord. Many that we come into contact with on a daily basis are dead in their trespasses and sin. We have good news about their peace and eternal security. Ask the Lord to give you a heart of love for everyone that you come into contact with. When you love them you will be able to share the Good News of Christ with them.

7/13/99 Matthew 5:9
God blesses those who work for peace, for they will be called the children of God.
Hi, I’m Mike Clay with Today’s Good News.

Peace requires hard work. It doesn’t come to those that simply breeze through life. Peace is developed in a growing relationship with Jesus. It is one of the benefits of a Godly lifestyle. As we deal with our speech, and build the ways of the Lord into our lives we pursue peace.

7/14/99 Romans12: 17-18
Never payback evil for evil to anyone. Do things in such a way that everyone can see you are honorable. Do your part to live in peace with everyone, as much as possible.
Hi, I’m Mike Clay with Today’s Good News.

Forgiveness is mandatory for the followers of Christ. We are not called to evaluate others actions but simply to forgive them. The issue is never what they have done but whether or not I will follow the Lord. Christ forgives us.

7/15/99 Romans 12: 19-21
Dear friends, never avenge yourselves. Leave that to God. For it is written, “I will take vengeance; I will repay those who deserve it.” Says the Lord.
Instead, do what the Scriptures say, ” If your enemies are hungry, feed them. If they are thirsty, give them something to drink. And they will be ashamed of what they have done to you.”
Don’t let evil get the best of you, but conquer evil by doing good.
Hi, I’m Mike Clay with Today’s Good News.

The only defense we have against evil is to do good. When we do good, we are exhibiting our confidence and trust in the Lord. We are to pray for those that curse us. These are hard words and separate the Children of God from the children of Satan.

7/16/99 Luke 14:25-27
²⁵Great crowds were following Jesus. He turned around and said to them, ²⁶“If you want to be my follower you must love me more than^£ your own father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters—yes, more than your own life. Otherwise, you cannot be my disciple. ²⁷And you cannot be my disciple if you do not carry your own cross and follow me.
Hi, I’m Mike Clay with Today’s Good News.

Cross bearing will never be a popular activity. The reason is because I must deal with myself to carry a cross. I always want to be first, have it easiest, get the most, or be the favorite. Christ calls me to put Him first. Cross bearing will never be popular or easy.

7/17/99 Matthew 10:38-39
⁸If you refuse to take up your cross and follow me, you are not worthy of being mine. ³⁹If you cling to your life, you will lose it; but if you give it up for me, you will find it.
Hi, I’m Mike Clay with Today’s Good News.

Cross bearing is a daily activity. I must be willing to be who I am to bear my cross. Reality is the first step in cross bearing. God made me for a mission. Will I do what God has called me to do or will I always seek to go my own way? Obedience to the Lord is the difference in cross bearing, Christ honoring service. Anything else is only an imitation. Christ calls me to look beyond what the world works for and recognize the eternal nature of our service to Him. Our feet are to be firmly placed in this world but our heart is to be totally given to the Lord.

7/18/99 Matthew 16:26-27
²⁶And how do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul^£ in the process? Is anything worth more than your soul? ²⁷For I, the Son of Man, will come in the glory of my Father with his angels and will judge all people according to their deeds.
Hi, I’m Mike Clay with Today’s Good News.

God sees things differently than the world does. If we only evaluate ourselves by the world’s standards, we will only build with wood, hay and stubble. In the day of judgement, all that we have worked for and built will be destroyed. On the other hand, if we focus our life on the things of God, our work will stand. The choice is ours. God’s way or no way.

7/19/99 Matthew 19:29-30
Everyone who has given up houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or property, for my sake, will receive a hundred times as much in return and will have eternal life. ³⁰But many who seem to be important now will be the least important then, and those who are considered least here will be the greatest then.
Hi, I’m Mike Clay with Today’s Good News.

Eternal rewards outweigh temporary benefits. Our life in Christ is to be based on eternal values. Jesus is Lord of all. Anytime my focus is on something other than Jesus, my service in the world will be misplaced. Only by the leadership of the Lord can I find the right focus for my life.

7/20/99 John 8:2
²Jesus said to the people, “I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won’t be stumbling through the darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life.”
Hi, I’m Mike Clay with Today’s Good News.

Christ will not let you stumble. The outlook may seem bleak. The battle may look lost. But, in Christ we have a victorious Lord who will lead us in His eternal triumph.

7/21/99 John 10:27-29
My sheep recognize my voice; I know them, and they follow me. ²⁸I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one will snatch them away from me, ²⁹for my Father has given them to me, and he is more powerful than anyone else. So no one can take them from me.
Hi, I’m Mike Clay with Today’s Good News.

Jesus is God’s everything. In Christ we have every resource that we will need. Our strength is our faith. Our victory is His promise. In Christ the solid rock I stand.

7/22/99 John 13:16-18
I have given you an example to follow. Do as I have done to you. ¹⁶How true it is that a servant is not greater than the master. Nor are messengers more important than the one who sends them. ¹⁷You know these things—now do them! That is the path of blessing.
Hi, I’m Mike Clay with Today’s Good News.

Talk is cheap. People evaluate us not on what we say but on what we do. Christ has appointed us to represent him here on earth. We are called to serve the Lord, serve each other and to minister in the world as an emissary of Christ. Don’t forget that every person we come into contact with needs Jesus. Jesus is the only way. We may be the only Jesus that some people will ever meet.

7/23/99 Galatians 5:25-26
If we are living now by the Holy Spirit, let us follow the Holy Spirit’s leading in every part of our lives. ²⁶Let us not become conceited, or irritate one another, or be jealous of one another.
Hi, I’m Mike Clay with Today’s Good News.

Everything we do comes under the scrutiny of God. We cannot compartmentalize our lives. All that we say and do is to be done as unto the Lord. We are to bear the Cross-of Christ every day, not just Sunday.

7/24/9 Ephesians 5:1-2
Follow God’s example in everything you do, because you are his dear children. ²Live a life filled with love for others, following the example of Christ, who loved you and gave himself as a sacrifice to take away your sins. And God was pleased, because that sacrifice was like sweet perfume to him.
Hi, I’m Mike Clay with Today’s Good News.

Self-sacrificing service is our goal. When we study God’s Word, it is to change our hearts, call us to repentance and equip us to serve others. Our end game is not winning. We are not to worry about honors or folks saying thank you. Our responsibility is to care for others in the same way that Christ cares for us. Our command is to go and be like Christ.

7/25/99 Philippians 2:12-13
Dearest friends, you were always so careful to follow my instructions when I was with you. And now that I am away you must be even more careful to put into action God’s saving work in your lives, obeying God with deep reverence and fear. ¹³For God is working in you, giving you the desire to obey him and the power to do what pleases him.
Hi, I’m Mike Clay with Today’s Good News.

God requires first place. He will empower us to live a Christian life. He will not empower us if we will not let Him. If we do not grow, it is not the Lord’s fault. First ask God to show you where you have gone wrong. Then, repent of self will and ask the Lord to help you change. When you trust the Lord He will give you the power to change. He will enable you to obey Him. God wants you to become like Jesus.

7/26/99 2 Timothy 2:5-7
Follow the Lord’s rules for doing his work, just as an athlete either follows the rules or is disqualified and wins no prize. ⁶Hardworking farmers are the first to enjoy the fruit of their labor. ⁷Think about what I am saying. The Lord will give you understanding in all these things.
Hi, I’m Mike Clay with Today’s Good News.

You must know God’s rules to follow them. One of the requirements for the king in the Old Testament is that he make a personal handwritten copy of the Scriptures so that he would know God’s law. You too must know the rules. Ignorance of what God is calling you to do is no excuse. Study God’s Word diligently. Seek to understand what the Lord is saying to you about your life and work. Spend time in God’s Word!

7/27/99 2 Timothy 2:22
²Run from anything that stimulates youthful lust. Follow anything that makes you want to do right. Pursue faith and love and peace, and enjoy the companionship of those who call on the Lord with pure hearts.
Hi, I’m Mike Clay with Today’s Good News.

Stop sinning. It is as simple as that. God’s Word is clear, when you find yourself in a compromised position, run from it. If you are tempted to drink, stop going where drinking is going on. If you have bad friends, get new ones. You stop sinning.

7/28/99 2 Timothy 2:23-25
Again I say, don’t get involved in foolish, ignorant arguments that only start fights. ²⁴The Lord’s servants must not quarrel but must be kind to everyone. They must be able to teach effectively and be patient with difficult people. ²⁵They should gently teach those who oppose the truth. Perhaps God will change those people’s hearts, and they will believe the truth
Hi, I’m Mike Clay with Today’s Good News.

You cannot make a silk purse out of a sow’s ear. We are to carefully present the Word of God in a respectful, loving way. Those that will not listen cannot be brow beaten. If you will care for them as the Word calls you to do, your actions will speak louder than your words.

7/29/99 Hebrews 6:11-12
¹¹Our great desire is that you will keep right on loving others as long as life lasts, in order to make certain that what you hope for will come true. ¹²Then you will not become spiritually dull and indifferent. Instead, you will follow the example of those who are going to inherit God’s promises because of their faith and patience.
Hi, I’m Mike Clay with Today’s Good News.

Heaven will be a great place. We will get there sooner than we think. Right now in the midst of all of life’s problems, remember that time is short. You don’t have a lot of time left. Work hard. Serve fearlessly. Strive to grow. Heaven will be a great place.

7/30/99 Hebrews 13:8-9
⁸Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever. ⁹So do not be attracted by strange, new ideas. Your spiritual strength comes from God’s special favor, not from ceremonial rules about food, which don’t help those who follow them.
Hi, I’m Mike Clay with Today’s Good News.

Keep your eyes on Jesus. This world is always changing. Leaders come and leaders go. Jesus is always here and never changes. He loves you. He will enable you to serve Him. You are a child of God and never outside of Christ’s watchcare.

7/31/99 1 Peter 2:21-23
Christ, who suffered for you, is your example. Follow in his steps. ²²He never sinned, and he never deceived anyone. ²³He did not retaliate when he was insulted. When he suffered, he did not threaten to get even. He left his case in the hands of God, who always judges fairly.
Hi, I’m Mike Clay with Today’s Good News.

Christ never sinned. He suffered in life and died on the Cross-for me, so that a sinner like me could be saved. If I serve Christ, I will suffer. Those that I am trying to help will be the ones that hurt me. All who follow Jesus must be prepared to suffer.

6/1/99 Psalm 4:1
We harbor thoughts of helplessness. When we are honest with God, we find resolution for our fears. Our pleas are always heard. His answer is always forthcoming. I choose to believe His response. God loves each one of us as if there were no other of us.

6/2/99 Psalm 28:2-3
Unlike the wicked we are to be straight forward and sincere in all or our relationships. The Lord has full knowledge of who we are and what we are. Honesty in our relationship with the Lord is the only way that we can succeed.

6/3/99 Psalm 61:1-3
Time or distance does not limit God. He knows us better than we know ourselves. The Lord is a strong protector of His people wherever they are. He will provide the shelter that we need. He safeguards us when we are under attack.

6/4/99 Psalm 86:1-2
I find it amazing that we can pray so boldly to the Lord. In your quiet time, use God’s Words to voice your need. Bold praying produces miraculous results. The Lord listens to our prayers.

6/5/99 Psalm 143:8
We need to be specific in our prayers. Tell the Lord exactly what your needs are. When the Lord hears us He will answer us. He gives us more than 7,000 promises in His Word. One of those promises says that the Lord will answer our prayers. Tell Him what you need and remind Him of His promise. God loves to hear from each one of His children.

6/6/99 Daniel 9:18
We never know the hurt and pain that others go through. But, we are keenly aware of our own pain when we are hurting. The Lord knows our hurt. He experiences our pain. Out of His deep love for us, He sends grace to heal our souls. We never deserve grace. God’s grace sends mercy just in time. The Lord is in the hurt healing business. God loves us with a healing love.

6/7/99 Jonah 2:7-9
Pain and agony are the proving ground for spiritual growth. Few Christians find consistent growth in the midst of good times. We claim the good things as our work and the bad things as misfortune. The truth is that the hard times shape us for kingdom service. In the midst of your hurt and pain call upon the Lord. You can be confident that the Lord is at work helping you grow. God is good, all the time.

6/8/99 Matthew 6:5-6
God wants you to succeed. Speak to the Lord constantly and consistently. He wants to hear from you. Your conversation with the Lord will change your life. Pray daily.

6/9/99 Matthew 21:21-22
Our prayer life must first be effective in changing us. In most of the struggles in my life, I will generally be the problem. God can solve my problems. Moving mountains is simple when compared to changing the things in my life that cause me to sin. God loves people most of all.

6/10/99 Luke 11:9-10
Constancy in prayer creates an inner focus. We are always in need of change. Sin has a way of creeping in unnoticed. When we are focused before the Lord he will help us to see our sin and change. The greatest need that we have in our lives is to become more like Jesus. Sin is always our stumbling block. God forgives sin and heals us.

6/11/99 Colossians 4:2
We are to pray with a passionate heart. Our prayer should be intensive and desperate. We are sinful, stiff necked people and only change when the Lord intervenes. Thank you Lord for all of the changes that you have made in my life. I believe Lord Jesus, help my unbelief.

6/12/99 I Timothy 4:4-5
My life is a gift from God. I am the one that chooses how I will respond to the blessings that God sends my way. Joy is a choice. God is good all the time.

6/13/99 James 5:16
Pious attitudes cut off our communion with the Father. Each one of us has a lifelong struggle with sin. Our responsibility is to develop a sensitivity to the Holy Spirit pointing out our sin. Sin recognized needs to be confessed. When we confess our sin, He is faithful and righteous to forgive our sin.

6/14/99 Psalm 119: 45
If I follow God’s law, I am free to be God’s child. In Christ, we have real freedom. The world offers temporary freedom with eternal consequences. Christ offers eternal freedom with permanent benefits. My way is hurt and pain. God’s way is peace and security.

6/15/99 Isaiah 49:9-11
We will experience trials and suffering all the days of our life. We will never be without the resources of God. When we are hurting, the Lord brings healing. When we are at our wits end, the Lord provides wisdom. Whatever our need, the Lord will provide it. Faith is learning to recognize this fact in the midst of conflict or attack and claiming the resources available to us.

6/16/99 Romans 8:21-23
The world is physically decaying and spiritually dead. God’s children know this but because we are his we do not have to live pessimistic lives. The protecting hand of the Lord is on each one of us that name the name of Jesus as our Lord and Savior. We have a hope that enables us to live resurrected lives under the direct leadership of the Lord Jesus Christ.

6/17/99 I Corinthians 1:30
God is our source. His son, Jesus Christ is the answer to all of the problems in our life. Jesus is God’s everything. He is the a to z. Our union and identification with Jesus gives us full access to the Father.

6/18/99 1 Corinthians 8:9
One day I realized that I was my brother’s keeper. Maturity in Christ enabled me to see that my faith equipped me to care for others. In Christ I accept this responsibility. I can sacrifice the pettiness of the flesh for protection of my brother.

6/19/99 I Corinthians 10:29-33
God loves people most of all. The Lord is at work in the world seeking to save those that are lost. He has chosen to do this work through people. People connecting with people, sharing the Gospel is the way that the message of salvation is spread. God loves people most of all.

6/20/99 II Corinthians 3:17-18
You can’t be like Jesus if you don’t spend time with Him. My life is shaped and molded into the likeness of Christ as I surrender more of me to Him. It takes time. I am the only one that can control my time. How much time have you spent with the Wonderful One today? Jesus is Lord of all.

6/21/99 Galatians 4:4-6
God’s timing is perfect. He always has our best interest at heart. If you are struggling for an answer to one of life’s problems, trust the Lord. He will bring the right thing at the right time into your life. Trust and obey.

6/22/99 Galatians 5:13
I am free to do right. I am no longer in bondage and slavery to sin. Satan’s way is not my way. I can forgive the mean spirited. Those that hate me are objects of prayer. When I am abused, I can forgive. My world is now a better place for I am free from the pessimism and darkness all around. Jesus is in control and I belong to Him.

6/23/99 Colossians 1:13-14
We have been transferred from the kingdom of darkness to the kingdom of light. The rebel king has been deposed. We have been rescued from devastation and placed in a position of security. This is a past, present and future event. We will never again be in the dark. God rules.

6/24/99 1 Peter 2:16
Our limitations in this world cause us to stumble at every turn. We never know exactly the right thing to do. We live our lives with high anxiety or lack of concern. High anxiety and lack of concern creates addictions. Slavery to God puts us under His authority and destroys our addiction to sin. Under His control we find real freedom. His guidance of our every step gives us the wisdom we need to avoid sin and to make good decisions. Freedom is found in Jesus.

6/25/99 Psalm 34:6
What I think makes me who I am. The battlefield of spiritual warfare is in the mind. As the Evil One attacks, I can choose to give into negative thoughts or I can choose to turn my face to the Lord and seek His input into my mind. He promises to help me in my hour of need. I can claim that promise. Victory is mine in Christ.

 

6/26/99 Isaiah 44:22
Careless living could be a good description of the way we live sometimes. Life catches us unawares and becomes a swirling vortex of useless activity. Bible study and quiet times become things that we dream of doing someday. God has forgiven our sin today. Our study and devotion is always a today thing. Return the Lord says to what you know is the right way. Right now, stop what you are wasting your time with and invest yourself in our wonderful Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

6/27/99 Isaiah 58:6-8
Sincere faith reaches out to others. Our relationship with the Father will cause us to invest our lives in others. People count. We need to examine our lives and make sure that we are putting people first. Jesus does.

6/28/99 John 8:31-32
Jesus is the truth. He frees us from the consequences of our sin. He enables us to see ourselves the way we are and to break free from the control of Satan. Jesus shows us clearly the way of eternal life with the Father and indeed provides eternal life for us. The Perfect One has a Perfect Plan for each one of us. He gives us freedom to accomplish that Plan.

6/29/99 John 8:34-36
Sin is a dictator. It is always seeking to enslave us to accomplish its goal, our annihilation. When you feel sin controlling, dominating, or dictating your actions turn to Jesus. Stop where you are, simply ask Jesus to move you out of the sin and put you under His control. Faith moves mountains. Jesus destroys sin every time we give Him control.

6/30/99 Romans 6:6-7
We are alive in Christ. No longer are we dead in our sin. When Christ came into our lives, He came with sin destroying power. I can choose not to sin. Sin can no longer lead me around as a slave for I am a child of God. The only power sin has in my life is the power of duplicity. Jesus names my sin and leads me out of it every time. Christ is Lord. He is the real power in the world.

5/1/99 Matthew 5: 39-42
Love is an action. It is what we do. It is also a response that we can make to those who hurt us. Their actions must not shape or mold us. God is shaping us into the image of the Lord Jesus Christ. My sin broke His heart. He went to the Cross-to pay the price for my sin. He paid the price for your sin too.

5/2/99 Matthew 6:3-4
We are living our lives before a watching Lord. He is with us. He sees everything we do. He knows the motive of our hearts. My good deeds are recognized by the Lord. He will never forget them. When I function for any reason other than to please God, I am off course. When I find myself off course, I repent and change the way I am doing things. This refreshes my heart and gives me a rich sense of the presence of God. God is pleased when I repent and turn to Him.

5/3/99 Mathew 6:19-20
Tithe for the Lord says so. Tithing enables us to trust God. It is an action that we take that declares God’s control of us. This is the beginning point. When I struggle with the real issues in my life and work together with the Lord on them I grow. As I grow I learn to give of my resources. Giving begins after tithing for tithing is required. Generally, the graciousness of my giving is an indication of the depth of my relationship with the Lord.

5/4/99 Luke 6:38
I want to open up the windows of heaven that God might give me all that He wants me to have. I find that giving is a solution to my loneliness. My sense of self worth that generally runs low is bolstered by more giving. I experience healed hurts as I give more. The more I give the more I am healed. The more I give the less I focus on getting. The more I give the richer I become. Giving is Godly. The more I give the closer I feel to God.

5/5/99 Matthew 6:32-33
Yesterday is gone. It hurts me but it is still gone. The future never comes. Each night when I go to sleep yearning for tomorrow to come, I get up and it is still today. I cannot survive for eternity until I trust God for today. Today is the time of salvation. Today is the time of healing. Today is the moment of service. Everything I will do this side of eternity will be done in the present. Today I will follow the Lord.

5/6/99 2 Corinthians 9:7-8
God gives us all that we have. My giving evidences my trust in the Lord and my willingness to be directed by Him. The Lord is on my side. He wants me to be blessed. He seeks for my best good. Help me Father to give with the right attitude. Bless the name of the Lord.

5/7/99 2 Corinthians 9:10
I will become like the things I do. If I act like the person I would like to be then that is the person I will become like. I want to be an encourager, so every chance I get I encourage someone. Everybody needs a kind word. God has a kind word for you, I love you so much that while you were not mine I suffered and died for you. I love you so much that while you were living for yourself I continued to do things for your best good. I want to be like Jesus. He loves me and He loves you.

5/8/99 Psalm 9:1
Thank you Lord for the breath of life. Thank you taking care of me while I slept. Thank you Lord for saving me. Thank you for always being there at the exact right moment for me. Thank you Lord for you are indeed wonderful. Bless the name of the Lord.

5/9/9 Psalm 18:1-3
I find my strength in the Lord. Whatever I need God is able to provide it. The Lord cannot be moved. He is my rock. No enemy can overrun me. The Lord is my fortress. The Lord is equipped to stand between any harm and me. He is my shield. He is mighty. He is my savior. In every instance the Lord provides what I need to face the day.

5/10/99 Psalm 40 : 1-3
Wait upon the Lord is not an option in the cafeteria line of life. I can wait upon God or fail. His Word says that in my own strength I can do nothing. In Christ I can do all things. Waiting upon the Lord is a sure sign of spiritual maturity and required to succeed. I must admit, sometimes it looks so easy to do things on my own but then I remind myself, wait upon the Lord.

5/11/99 Deuteronomy 7: 7-8
God is sovereign. I am who God created me to be. When I get happy with bending the knee to God I will be on the right road for glorifying Him in my life. I am worthy and loved. God created me different than any other person. His plan for my life is unique and useful in building His kingdom. Serve the Lord with gladness.

5/12/99 Psalm 139: 23-24
My focus is on me. I struggle to change it and yet continually fail. God’s focus is on me. He wants me to change my focus to him. I can trust God to do what is in my best interest. I can have confidence that the Lord is in control. The Father is concerned about every thing that happens to me. He loves me and wants me to learn to love him. You and I need help to grow in our love for God. Jesus is the one that will give us that help. Thank you Lord for staying with me through all my sin. Help me Jesus to change.

5/13/99 Proverbs 20:27
Contemplation and meditation are required for a growing and vibrant Christian faith. I cannot count the times that the Lord has touched that sin-strain in me when I knelt before Him piously praying. I am asking for things but the Lord’s response is about my character. It’s character that counts. I have heard Him say this many times and I seem to still be struggling with learning this lesson. Character is what we think. It comes out when we think no one is looking. God wants to remake our character so that we act like His darling son Jesus.

5/14/99 Hebrew 4:13-14
I need Jesus. Everything I have ever done and will do comes under the scrutiny of the Lord God. You need Jesus. Everything you have ever done and will do comes under the scrutiny of the Lord God. We are all sinners. We were dead in our trespasses and sin but have been made alive in Jesus Christ. Praise God for our salvation. Thank you Jesus for giving us a pure and clean relationship with the Father. Thank you Lord. Thank you.

5/15/99 Job 28:17-18
We labor ever day to make ends meet. We struggle hard to make sense of the things that buffet us in life. We use time payment plans to get what we want right now. To many people the horizon of life seems to be endless until one day the end comes. They never see beyond the day to day grind of life. Everyone needs the Lord. When we see our sin and bend the knee to Jesus we have acquired wisdom. Every time we put God first we grow in wisdom. Wisdom is found in following the Lord.

5/16/99 Job28: 20, 23,&28
Today, knowledge is plentiful but wisdom is scarce. Only a fool thinks he knows it all. Only a person without understanding denies the claims of Jesus. When we come to Christ and ask forgiveness for our sin we begin a relationship with the Lord. He knows all things. As we develop reverence and awe for our wonderful Lord He gives us wisdom to live our life. In Christ we have everything we need to be successful. As we learn to obey the Lord we grow in wisdom. Trust in God. The Lord will make you wise.

5/17/99 Psalm 90:12
Time wasters are destroying us. We must discipline our hearts and lives to grow in grace and in the fullness of the Lord Jesus Christ. We should pay extra attention to what we are doing with our time at night. An early devotional time is better than as the last thing of the day. If you have set your heart to change your life, extended periods of time in the Word of God are essential. Our relationship with the Lord grows by quantity time and quality time. It takes time to become like Jesus. For some of us it takes a lot more time.

5/18/99 Psalm 111:10
God loves obedience more than sacrifice. Every time I say no to temptation, the darkness is pushed back a little farther. Every time I pray, I am destroying darkness. We are in a real war. What we do and say counts. When I truly know who God is I can come to grips with who I am. Serve God. Love each other.

5/19/99 Proverbs 1:7
Knowledge is all around us but wisdom is scarce. We are called to honor and respect God. Because we know Him and His greatness we will live in awe of His power. We will be obedient to His Word. Our lives will be a reflection of His control of us and love for us. Trust in God. He will make you truly wise.

5/20/99 Proverbs 2:2-5
Wisdom begins with God. Knowledge is changeable but wisdom is eternal. We are called to seek wisdom. This encourages us to read God’s Word. This call simply states that without a growing relationship with God we will not be wise. When we are sincere and persistent in our search for wisdom, the Lord will bless our efforts.

5/21/99 Proverbs 2:6-8
God doesn’t call the equipped. God equips the called. We come to the Lord to learn. We seek His wisdom so that we can build Godly lives and accomplish His will for our lives. He knows what we need to know. When we ask Him, He will give us good advice.

5/22/99 Proverbs 3:7-8
Life is fast. We are tempted every day to give into to the fast paced life that the world leads. We will lose if we ignore the Lord. I am called to constantly examine my values and priorities. God intends for me to follow Him. Evil intends for me to follow self. I am the one that makes the choice of which one I will follow. Choose God.

5/23/99 Proverbs 3:21-26
God’s Word says we live next to death with the full confidence that the Lord is in control. I am called to live my life wisely. This includes good planning and careful attention to the details of daily life. When I mess up, God will help me to straighten out the mess. I can live each day confident that the Lord will deal with me with my best interests at heart. God is good, all the time.

5/24/99 Luke 7:32-35
Those who can do but those who can’t criticize. We must be careful about the way we live. We are not responsible for judging or condemning Christians who serve the Lord. I am called to pay attention to the way that I live.

5/25/99 1 Corinthians 1: 20-21
The Good News of the Lord Jesus Christ still sounds foolish to many. The world worships power, influence and wealth. Jesus says whosoever will may come. To the world this is foolish. To us it is a message of love and value. I count not because of who I am but because of whose I am. Jesus is Lord and I belong to Him.

5/26/99 1 Corinthians 1: 23-25
Death seems to be the end of the road to the unsaved. When we are saved we no longer suffer from the fear of the unknown. Our destination is sure. The power of God raised Jesus from the dead. His precious Word tells us that this same power that raised Jesus will save us from eternal death to eternal life. We will be with the Lord forever.

5/27/99 Ephesians 1: 9-10
The world is a cold, hard place. One day Christ will return. When he does, he will unite all people into one group. God’s children will bow to Christ as Lord and go to be with Him in eternity. God’s enemies, the unsaved, will bow to Christ as Lord and be cast into eternal perdition. Jesus is coming back soon.

5/28/99 Ephesians 1:11
God is sovereign. He is in control. If your life is chaotic, cling to the fact that Jesus is Lord of all. Satan cannot destroy you. You are a child of God and loved by the Father. Christ is all and in all and you have not been forgotten.

5/29/99 Colossians 1:28-29
We belong to the Lord. We are His ambassadors. When we grow in Christ we simply tell others what God is doing in us. Our responsibility is to truthfully share what the Lord has done in our life. The problem for too many Christians is that they aren’t growing and have nothing to share. When the Lord speaks to you, you will tell everybody what God has done.

5/30/99 James 1:5-6
When we have faith, we simply believe that we are valuable to the Lord. We struggle with our fears and seek to understand God. We cannot understand God; we can only serve Him and trust that He will tell us the right things to do. He loves each one of us. As His child we can be confident that God will do the right thing. Faith is living in such a way that I evidence this confidence in what I say and do.

5/31/99 James 3:17
The first commandment is to love the Lord with all my heart and soul. The second commandment is to love thy neighbor as thyself. It doesn’t say that our neighbor is lovable. God loves me with a complete understanding of all my sin. He loves me because He chooses to love me. Love is an action. I must choose to love to fulfill the commandments of the Lord.

4/1/99 Matthew 20:17-20
The cross was not a mistake. God was not surprised. He is always in control. Jesus provided the solution for our sin problem. The power of God is available for you to face the forces of darkness.

4/2/99 Matthew 26:39
Jesus took my sin upon himself to save me from suffering and separation. In Jesus we have access to the Father. What are you struggling with? Jesus will help you to face the results of sin in your life. Hope in the Lord. He will light up the darkness.

4/3/99 Matthew 27:50-54
Everyone in Jerusalem knew that Jesus was hung on the cross. They saw the miracles. Pagans were astonished at the activity of God. Some believed. Many chose not to believe. It always comes down to individual choice. Do you believe that Jesus is the Son of God? Do you believe that Jesus can forgive your sin and provide for you an eternal relationship with the Father? Eternal life is your choice.

4/4/99 Matthew 28: 5-6
Fear not is what the angels told the shepherds at the birth of Jesus. Now, we find an angel telling us again not to fear. When we come into a relationship with Jesus we can conquer fear. The victory is won by our faith in the victor. Jesus Christ conquered the grave. He provided forgiveness for our sin. He offers us the solutions we need to our daily lives. Don’t be afraid, the Lord is in control.

4/5/99 Philippians 3:9-11
One day I will share Christ’s glory. On that day I will no longer be under persecution by the flesh. Fear, failure or faithlessness will not be an obstacle ever again. I will stand before the Lord God almighty and declare that I am His child because I had faith in Jesus Christ. Christ, my elder brother, the King of Glory, will stand beside me as I face the Father. God by His absolute power will bring me into His kingdom for eternity.

4/6/99 1 Corinthians 15: 22-23
Death is a reality we avoid talking about. Those that are lost have no hope. Those that are saved have a hope in Jesus. No one will escape death. The children of God have a hope that at death the Lord will be waiting to take them into the next life. Simple, truthful and trustworthy is our God and He says that we have eternal life in Jesus.

4/7/99 1 Corinthians 15:24-26
Christ came to defeat all evil on earth. His resurrection from the dead was God’s conquering power displayed before an unbelieving world. Jesus is alive. He is waiting on the trumpet sound for a triumphal return when all things will be made right. Evil will be banished and Satan will be removed. Until then our faith will take us from this day until the day of Christ’s return. Our hope will make that day of return real in our hearts. We will live like He is on the way today.

4/8/99 1 Corinthians 15:42-43
When Jesus comes back we will be like Him. Each one of us will be perfect. Arthritis, bunions, bad knees, cancer, tumors and ever-other imperfect thing will be done away with. We will not be disappointed. When we are with Jesus we will be like we dreamed in our heart of hearts that we should be. We will love and care for others. We will think good thoughts. Wisdom will be our caretaker. We will never experience heartache again.

4/9/9 1 Corinthians 15:55-57
We have hope in Jesus. One day we will die. Whatever way we face death, Jesus will be there with us. In the split second that leave this life Jesus will be there to meet us. He will not leave us alone. He has already won the victory. His presence will be a victory celebration because in that moment we will see Him as He is. Lord of all.

4/10/99 Romans 6: 7-10
You are free from death’s power. Any power that evil could exercise over you has been destroyed by Christ. When Jesus comes in, our lives are changed. We are new creatures in Christ. We are set free from the bondage of sin. Victory is our theme and song. Life is different. Christ is our elder brother. Holy, loving Lord, we praise you for what you have done and do in our lives. Bless the name of the Lord.

4/11/99 Romans 8:1-2
Today you can have victory. Sin is a stain on our lives that Jesus has removed. The pull of sin, the agony of evil habits is simply a ghost reflex. Our memories remind us of how weak we are. Our hope is in Christ. He is the one with power. He has approved each one of us, God’s children, to receive that conquering power. Stand up and rebuke sin. Walk away from it. Every step you take you will find more strength to take the next. Sin is dead. You are alive in Christ.

4/12/99 1 Corinthians 3:11-13
Jesus loves the little children. He cares for the poor and weak. He is concerned for the sick and dying. He would that no one be lost. If I am going to build on the foundation of the Lord Jesus Christ, I must be about His work. People count. Everything else is passing away.

4/13/99 1 Corinthians 3: 14-15
Our faith and work are personal. We develop our faith in our hearts. We do our work together with the Lord. Don’t waste your time comparing yourself to others. Talk with the Lord. He will carefully teach you what you need to accomplish the task He has given you. He will not evaluate you in comparison with me. He knows what you can do and your evaluation will be based on what you could have done. Do everything unto the Lord. He is with you right now. He is a good and loving God. That’s why He made you.

4/14/99 2 Corinthians 5:9-10
Some Christians have been overcome by the hustle and bustle of life. They have lost their focus. They are hurting on the inside and hating on the outside. Next time you run across a brother or sister in Christ that is rude, crude and unkind you can be sure that hate on the outside is simply a cover for hurt on the inside. When you are hurting and misbehaving, go and kneel before the Lord. This will please Him and heal you.

4/15/99 2 Corinthians 4:8-10
The normal Christian life is hard and full of trouble. The world will seek to force us into its mold. Spend time with the Father. He will break the mold, heal the trouble and grow your faith. Take everything to the Lord. Trust in Him in all things. Keep your devotional diary and review it often. The Lord is good. All the time.

4/16/99 2 Corinthians 4:17-18
Never fear when you are down and out. God has not forgotten you. Hurting hearts deceive our eyes and make us think our worth is little. God has not forgotten you. Jesus died on the Cross-for you. God raised Him from the dead so that you would know that Jesus was alive and had conquered death for you. You are a winner. Do not let the world fool you. Rejoice and be glad as you face today. God loves you and your victory is sure.

4/17/99 Philippians 3:20-21
Life is short and God’s work is important. We can put everything we have into God’s work. Whatever is left when we die will be left here. When we go to be with the Lord we will be made new and perfect like Jesus. God is looking for you. Have you reported in? Do not wait another minute. The Lord is ready to use you right now.

4/18/99 1 John 3:2
The thought of seeing Jesus reminds me of all those around me that are dead in their trespasses and sins. I want to have everyone I know there with me in heaven. My dad will not be there with me. I never could connect with him. Maybe you could have. Whose dad or mom can you share Christ with? Do it today, please.

4/19 1 Corinthians 9:24-25
Tell everyone you know about Jesus. Tell them about the pain that you felt when you were lost. Tell them about the deep hurt that controlled your life when you were all alone and without Jesus. Tell them how Jesus changed your life from misdirected to purposeful. Tell them about the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit and how the Lord speaks to you when you feel alone and confused. Is this your testimony? Is Jesus real to you? If He isn’t ask Christ to forgive you of your sin and come into your heart and save you.

4/20/99 2 Timothy 4:8
How are you living? Are eternal things first in your life? Remember that only at the feet of Jesus can you get your GPS coordinates set for each day. It takes time with the Lord to act like Jesus. When I am crusty and difficult, I know immediately that I need to return to my prayer closet. Pray for me that I will become more like Jesus. I am praying for you every day. God loves you and so do I.

4/21/99 1 Peter 5:2-4
A shepherd is not concerned with what the sheep can do for him. He is busy protecting them from evil. He is busy binding up their cuts and scrapes. When you are assigned shepherd responsibilities, and all Christians have some, your number one duty is to make sure you can care for the flock. You can only do this when you under the control of Jesus. Read God’s Word, spend time in prayer and then stay focused on what the Lord has called you to do.

4/22/99 Hebrews 6:10
Satan uses our limited knowledge to suggest that God is unfair. It seems like it sometimes. We work hard and are forgotten. We struggle and fail. But God is never unjust. He never forgets or overlooks our hard work for him. We can be sure of His love and watch care over us. He loves each one of us.

4/23/99 Matthew 6:1
Appearance or compassion is the question. Are you doing what you do for the Lord because you love God or because you want to be loved? There is a difference. All that we do should be done for Jesus. One day we will place at the feet of the Living Lord all that we have done for Him. The value of our work will not be based on the quantity of the work but on the quality of our heart. Love God, and love one another.

4/24/99 Matthew 6:3-4
We give as a response to the gift of life. I was dead in my trespasses and sin and Christ died for me. He knew my sin and died for me. He knew my weakness and failures and died for me. Now, He asks me to help someone just like me. They have a need and I can meet it. His request to me is to give. Not give and be recognized, simply give.

4/25/99 1 Corinthians 9:22-23
If you will listen, folks will tell you about themselves. When they do, search for the common ground. If you will listen, folks will tell you why they are important. Forget one-ups-man-ship and recognize their importance. Encourage them and accept them. When you do this with a sincere heart they will give you a chance to tell them about Jesus. Everyone needs the Lord.

4/26/99 Psalm 37:16-17
I had a hard time with this verse for many years. We gave up money and opted for service. Difficulties came that made money look like the solution. We tremblingly turned to the Lord and cried our Lord we believe, help our unbelief. He did. Money never solves any problem.

4/27/99 Psalm 40:17
Whoa! This is a great memory verse. God is thinking about you right now. God is thinking about me right now. Praise the name of the Lord. I’m going to stop for a moment and think about Jesus.

4/28/99 Psalm 41:1
Talk about a “When I’m in trouble plan.” My generosity is the funnel through which the Lord blesses me. What I give I will get. The method of my generosity will be the method of my rescue.

4/29/99 Psalm 51: 16-17
Repentance isn’t only saying I’m sorry. When I am repentant, I will change. I will stop doing what I was doing and do what God says. It is a change of my heart and my actions. God wants me to become like Jesus that means I must become less like me.

4/30/99 Psalm 62:1-2
When I am in despair, the Lord is the anchor for my soul. This confidence in the Lord is always there in times of trouble. It comes in gently as I struggle to survive. My firm resolution grows in adversity. Only in my hour of need or testing does the anchor set and hold me fast to my faith. Jesus is Lord and there is no other.

3/01/99   I Peter 3:15 (NLT)
Christ is truly in control of all events. Our proclamation is a result of His Lordship. As I surrender my life to Jesus He uses me to tell others about His love for them. The Lord is always seeking the lost. We are His agents in this world. We proclaim what He has done for us. The key is what God has done. If we are not under His control He will not be doing things in our life. We will have nothing to say. Sounds like today’s news.

3/02/99 Genesis 1:1
He made it all. The stars, the sky, natural laws, the earth, you and me. He created it all and gave us a book of instructions He called the Bible. Is your life out of whack? Go to the manual, God’s Word to fix it. Have you given your life to the Lord? Go to the instruction manual, the Bible to grow. We need the Word of God so that we can follow the way of God every day.

3/03/99 Hebrews 1:1-2
He spoke through prophets, priests and kings and we didn’t listen. He came in the flesh so that now we might see and be saved. Each one of us must decide what we will do about Jesus. Follow Him or scorn Him is our choice. My prayer today is that you will follow Jesus. He is Lord.

3/04/99 II Peter 1:20-21
We struggle with our emotions. Just as the people in Jesus’ day we are looking for a miracle, something that will place us above the crowd. Jesus said that we need to look to Him for our value and importance. In service we find value. In surrender we achieve victory. In obedience we discover real freedom. We serve a Holy God. A Holy God that knows we need Him.

3/05/99 John 3:16
Jesus died for you. Not because you are worthy but because you are loved. God loves you. He loves you so much that He paid the price of my sin and your sin. He paid it all. His gift to each one of us is the privilege of a relationship with Him. He forgives us and makes us family. The Father loves you.

3/06/99 Hebrews 9:12
A perfect Savior made a perfect sacrifice. A sacrifice so complete that it must be made only once. It is effective for every person that is born. That includes you and it includes me. We need the Lord and He has made the right provision for our access to Him.

3/07/99 I John 1:7
I can care for you because God has forgiven me. Christ paid the price for my sin. I am no longer in slavery to sin and as a result can care for you. My care for you is not based on whether you like me or not. I can care for you because Christ loves me. His love enables my love. His forgiveness enables my fellowship with you. God is good, all the time.

3/08/99 I Corinthians 15: 3-4
Christianity is faith in the living Lord Jesus. God has chosen to use us not angels to proclaim our faith. We believe in life and we testify to the life we have been given. When we struggle with our testimony, we must come back to the source, Christ, and be infused with His precious life. Witnessing is telling what Jesus has done in me. Love the Lord by sharing with people. Jesus died for everyone. Tell them how He saved you!

3/09/99 Romans 10:9-10
Salvation is a faith event. Lord I believe that you love me and have saved me. I believe that you have made me a new creature in Christ and forgiven my sin. I wake up every day remembering that I am His and He is mine. All I do and think and say are affected by my new relationship. Salvation is a journey and Christ-likeness is the goal. I want to be like Jesus!

3/10/99 Philippians 2:9-11
God’s power and might encourages me to seek the lost. The wonderful changes that Jesus makes in my life gives me a word for those that are dead in their trespasses and sin. People must choose whom they will follow but I must make sure that they have all the information they need to make a choice. God is love and judgement. Jesus is coming back, soon.

3/11/99 Psalm 139: 13-14
God made us and breathed life into us. His love makes our life worthy. Look at who you are and what you do. Do it as unto the Lord and Christ will see you through. We do not understand eternity. We so easily make the wrong choices. Remember who you are and whose you are. Jesus is Lord of all. Let Him be Lord of you.

3/12/99 Psalm 119:160
Doubt causes great pain. We doubt our future, good things, love, winning and on and on. Don’t doubt God. He is not like us. He is dependable. His promises never fail. Stand fast and believe that He will and He will. Remember that God is sovereign and trustworthy. He will not forget you. You are His beloved child.

3/13/99 Romans 8: 12-13
Satan is a liar. He always has been. You are not obligated to Satan. He will tell you that you are a failure. You were but in Christ you are a conqueror. He will tell you that you can never win. You are a winner in Christ. The key for victory is time with Jesus. You need to carve out time everyday. Spend time with the Lord. He will strengthen you to fight the fight of faith. You are a child of the King.

3/14/99 Romans 1: 25-26
Sinatra said it best, “I did it my way!” It sounds good and sells a lot of records. The truth is we cannot do it our way without sinning. Surrender is required in our relationship with the eternal living Lord Jesus. I am not able to do it myself because I always do it wrong. In Christ is where I find wisdom. In Christ is where I find joy and peace. In Christ is where I find real life. My song is “I did it His way!”

3/15/99 Psalm 1: 1-4
In Christ, I have everything I need. What I don’t have I don’t need. If I can live with that in mind I am safe. When I look at others and evaluate myself I fall into all kinds of troubles. I must constantly focus my life on Jesus. In Christ I have everything I need.

3/16/99 Matthew 19:1-4
The Lord is God. We are to have no other God before us. He made us in His image for His good pleasure. It is required that I seek to know Him. I find joy in being in His presence. All of the hurt and pain that I experience comes from being outside of His control. Surrender and service are where I will find true freedom. Life is hard. It is unbearable outside of the will of the Lord.

3/17/99 1 Corinthians 15: 47-49
Some days it feels like I will never be what I should be. Nothing goes right. No one seems to be in the right place. Feelings are like that. They trip us up. As long as I am in the flesh I will struggle everyday with feelings. Adam was betrayed by feelings just like you and me. But, someday, no longer through a glass darkly but face to face, I will see Jesus. Then I will be like Him. Help me Lord to survive and deal with my emotions.

3/18/99 Colossians 1:13-14
Jesus is the light and in Him there is no darkness. Every day in my devotional time with the Lord, I am seeking to know Him. To know His direction and presence provides the light I need for this day. As long as I abide in the light I will not be overwhelmed by the darkness. Light destroys darkness. Jesus is Lord.

3/19/99 II Peter 3: 8-9
Unsaved people are all around us. Some of us have family members and beloved friends that are not saved. Pray for the lost. Pray for their salvation. Pray that someone will reach them for the Lord. Those of us that are saved need to think of the lost the way that the Lord does. He is seeking that no one die and go to an eternal hell. Pray that the lost will be found.

3/20/99 Ecclesiastes 4: 9-10
Life is designed for companionship. We have a need for intimacy and social interaction. We are called to serve people. If we fail to develop our social skills and short-circuit our ability to serve we will experience dysfunction in our daily life. Jesus enables us to deal with our shortcomings. He will do this each day as we spend time with him. Our journey to wholeness will always involve much time with the Lord for healing of our interpersonal relationship skills. If we don’t love people we have a problem that only the Lord can solve.

3/21/99 Ecclesiastes 3:11-13
We are created in God’s image. We have a deep-seated spiritual thirst. Within our hearts is an awareness of our eternal value. Only a relationship with God through the Lord Jesus Christ will solve our spiritual needs. Trust in the Lord and seek Him.

3/22/99 Exodus 34:6
Jesus is seeking to save the lost. He would that no one be lost. You and I have come into the family of God because Jesus pursued us until we were found. His wondrous love for us has no boundaries. Whatever you are struggling with today, Jesus loves you. He loves you more than anything you have done wrong. He knows you and wants you to come into His family.

3/23/99 Deuteronomy 34: 8-10
We have a friend in Jesus. A friend that knows everything about us and still loves us. When we come into God’s family we are never forgotten, misplaced or over looked. Jesus is our mediator as we live life day by day. Every thing we think, say or do is of concern and value to the Lord. His eye is on you. You are not alone.

3/24/99 Psalm 34: 8
Why are you waiting? Try the Lord. You will not be disappointed. You will be amazed at what you are missing. Stop putting it off and try the Lord. Put your full trust in Jesus and He will change your life. Be blessed. Surrender right now to the Lordship of Jesus.

3/25/99 Psalm 100:5
There is nothing else like the Lord. He alone is worthy of our worship. He alone is worthy of our constant devotion. He knows all about us and still loves us. He paid the price for our reconciliation and still gave us the freedom to choose. God is love and he loves you and me. Bless the name of the Lord.

3/26/99 Psalm 119: 65-68
When you were saved, do you remember the deep sense of joy and elation that you felt? God did that for you. Or do you remember when you sinned that first sin after salvation? You felt such deep remorse. You asked God to forgive you and He did. Do you remember the wonderful release that your soul experienced? God did that for you. Thank the Lord that He is out ahead of us doing wonderfully good things for us everyday.

3/27/99 Lamentations 3: 25
Our culture is arguably the most impatient society in the history of the world. We have been spoiled with instant solutions to every physical need that we have except life. Life has no instant solutions. People do not work like machines. They are wonderfully distinct and complex. God is in the business of making our lives work out right, if we trust Him and obey Him. Next time you have trouble, pray about it and wait three days. You will be amazed what the Lord will do.

3/28/99 Matthew 7:11
Jesus said we have not because we ask not. God wants to help you and me. Ask Him. Spend time with Him and seek to know what He wants you to do. Ask Him for anything. He will always answer. Listen for His answer. Look for His intervention and solution. God loves you.

3/29/99 Romans 2:4
We wrongly mistake God’s patience for the way we live as an approval. God is holy and we are a sinful people. When we spend time with the Lord, we will be stunned by the sinfulness that we will find in our lives. My strength is in the Lord. He is faithful and righteous to forgive me when I recognize sin in my life and agree with Him that it is sin. That recognition and agreement is confession. What follows is repentance. Repentance means that I turn from my sin to the Lord. Lord when I see myself in the light of your holiness, I am humbled by your patience with me. Help me to become more like Christ.

3/30/99 James 1:17-18
You were chosen by God before the creation of the world to be His child. He has never changed His position. Whatever you have done, or however you feel, God loves you. Whosoever calls upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. God never changes His commitment to you. You have freedom to choose Him. God is good, all the time.

3/31/99 Psalm 86:5
God is good and merciful to perfection. His storehouse of mercy for us is overflowing. When I am seeking mercy, the Lord willingly and abundantly answers my need. One of the things I need most in my life is to learn to be merciful to others. I am often challenged by the Lord to give to others what I am seeking for myself. Love God. Love your neighbor. Praise God from whom all blessings flow.

2/1/99 Genesis 1:27
Man and woman are both made in the image of God. Neither man nor woman is better. Both have a specific role and are of equal concern to the Lord. Both are critical in God’s plan. Both find their relationship dependent upon the saving work of the Lord Jesus Christ. Be blessed. God loves you.

2/2/99 Genesis 2:23-24
Marriage was God’s idea. A man and a woman have different roles but the same goal of honoring God. In a public ceremony they are united as one to each other. Sex is a part of married life. God ordains it for the marital union, period. Anything other than this is not of God and is a sin. When we repent of our sin God forgives. When we have violated God’s Law He can heal and forgive our sinfulness.

2/3/99 Proverbs 10:12
Hatred is a bitter root. Sometimes when the frustrations of life overwhelm me, I permit that bitter root of hatred to control my actions. Then, all of a sudden it seems like a full-scale war, with animosity, anger, outbursts and other emotions stirring around. The solution is for me to go to God and seek forgiveness. I am not responsible for what others do. I am responsible for how I act. Peace, joy and love are emotions that our precious savior, Jesus, gives to us in abundance. What I think and how I act are important to the Lord. How I express myself towards others will cause them to respond to me the same way. In Christ I can love my neighbor.

2/4/99 Proverbs 17:9
Love keeps its mouth shut. Bringing up another’s faults in an argument is an invitation to disaster. To keep a friend, be a friend. Forget their faults and pray they forget yours. God does.

2/5/99 John 13:14-15
Foot washing was not a gesture by Jesus to make the disciples feel good. Nor was He saying that foot washing was the only task that the disciples would be called upon to perform. It was an example of service for them to follow as they went into the world to serve the Lord. We are charged with the responsibility for proclaiming the Gospel message to the lost. Whatever we need to do to get that message across is our charge. Whatever the task, whatever the chore, salute the flag of service and get busy. We are on mission for the Lord Jesus Christ. Service to our fellow man is the order for the day.

2/6/99 John 13: 34-35
Jealousy, petty bickering, and division are the results of religion. Peace, joy and love are the evidence of the presence of Jesus. When we look at our lives and see the way we act we know whom we are following. When Jesus is in charge we act like Him.

2/7/99 John 15: 12-13
Help me Lord to show my love in ways that I can. Help me to listen to my friends more closely. They are valuable to me. When I give them my time by listening to them I am saying and showing that I love them. Remind me Father to help those in need and hold my condemnation of their weakness or ineptness. Help me to care for my friends just like you care for me. Lord, this is the way I can lay down my life for my friends every day.

2/8/99 Romans 12:9-10
Actions are indicators of what we think. If I put my money where my mouth is my heart will soon follow. If I invest my time in the things of God my life will focus on the things of God. If I fail to harness my time and lead a self-centered life, my service to God through serving my fellow man will have a hollow ring. I must be busy about the Lord’s business.

2/9/99 Romans 13: 8-9
Love isn’t a destination it is a journey. Until our journey is complete we have a responsibility to share our love with our neighbors by caring for their needs. We are helpers for the hurting. As we live this journey of love we will find that our needs are richly met in a way that will exceed our wildest imaginations. God fills our hearts with love and we are his agents to share that love with those around us.

2/10/99 I Corinthians 13: 1-3
People count. If you love Jesus you will care for and love people. Christ could have done anything or been anything that He wanted to but out of His love for us He did what we needed done. He died for us making available to us forgiveness of our sin. Remember that the greatest of us is the one that serves. The first shall be last.

2/11/99 I Corinthians 13:4
Love and lust are mutually exclusive emotions. Lust wants to get what makes it feel good. Love seeks to fulfill the needs of others. So much of what we see today labeled as love is simply lust. Real love is a journey of discovery. We must genuinely care for human need and we cannot do this without the love of Christ within us. People need love. You need people. Growing in Christ involves loving those He died for.

2/12/99 1 Corinthians 13:5-6
I’ve got to get a handle on my driving temper. It is that crazy emotion that wells up when I am driving that takes every mistake another driver makes as a personal slight but overlooks all of my mistakes. Love reverses this kind of mindset. Love forgives the error of others and asks forgiveness for personal mistakes. Lord help me to look out of the windshield of my car and love other drivers.

2/13/99 I Corinthians 13:7
“Please help me I’m falling” are the first few words of a popular song from a few years ago. When folks mess up, what they need is help not a lecture. I must bring myself under the mighty hand of God so that in my loved ones time of need I will say, “I’ll help” instead of “you shouldn’t have done that!” We are called to a ministry of love and care not criticism and separation.

2/14/99   Ephesians 5: 21, and 24-26
Love is and can be beautiful. Real love is able to work through the ups and downs of life and survive the tragedies of life. We can survive the hour of temptation and testing because Jesus died for us. We can continue with our loved one who causes us heartache because Jesus died for us. Note that all have sinned.  Someplace, somewhere we each have expressed our humanity by sinning. Be blessed and love one another. Especially when the warts show.

2/15/99 Galatians 5:13
Have you got a favorite sin? Many Christians do. They glory in it, telling themselves they can’t overcome it. Stop sinning. It is clear in God’s Word that we are not slaves to sin. Get in the Word. Spend time with God. Focus on Jesus. Your sin will depart and you will experience the freedom that you already have.

2/16/99 Ephesians 5:3-4
Can you imagine gutter dwelling Christians? Is there such a thing? God’s Word says there is. Some Christians never get around to changing the way they do their everyday life. Look to the way you live. Do the things that honor Christ. Rejoice in the great gift of God’s salvation. The things of this world will pale in comparison to life in Christ. If you are living in the gutter, God is waiting on you to choose to change.

2/17/99 Joel 2:12
What is it that command’s your attention? Are you going through a personal crisis that has your time totally consumed? Is their grief or pain in your life that has caused you to harbor questions about God’s care and concern? Kneel before God and confess your feelings whatever they are. Heal this breach. Do it quickly. Life is not a guarantee. The end can sneak up on you. Pay attention to the way you worship the Lord God.

2/18/99 Amos 5:14
“Big talk, little do” is a childhood phrase that I often remember. How many Christians do you know who talk about their faith but act like the faithless. You know what I’m talking about. Christians that are overrun by some physical sin like pornography, cursing, anger or even hate. We must do the right thing. When we do the wrong thing we are giving Satan a foothold in our lives. Pray for those around you. Run from evil!

2/19/99 Matthew 3:2
Life is a matter of minutes. We live in a dangerous world. Each day is a challenge to live. It would be foolish for anyone to think that life would not change and yet many stumble when change comes. Our relationship with the Lord involves much change. I must change every day to become more like Christ. As change comes rejoice and do not sorrow for God is at hand.

2/20/99 Matthew 9:13
I need the Lord. This is the first step in a relationship with the Father. I need the Lord. This acknowledges my bankrupt condition and my personal request for help. I need the Lord is my own confession that without Jesus I cannot have a relationship with the Father. I am not good. I need Jesus.

2/21/99 Acts 17:30-31
I have no excuse.  Jesus Christ came to earth and lived a perfect life. He died for me that I might have a new life and relationship with the Father. If I fail to recognize and accept what God has demonstrated, I am without excuse.  If I did not accept Jesus as my Lord and Savior, I would be without excuse. God is good, all the time.

2/22/99 Romans 2:4
God’s Word reminds us to pay attention to how we live. What do I value in life? When I look at God’s Word, are God’s concerns my concerns? Are people more important than events? Are the things I am devoted to eternal?   Today, I pledge to the Lord to consciously make each decision with His concerns in mind. I want to be like Jesus.

2/23/99 James 4:10
God is able and willing to bless. He calls each one of us to bend our knee in submission to Him. When I bend my knee to God, it indicates my maturity in Christ. The Lord gives the worth and honor that I seek. Reward and recognition come on the Lord’s timetable.

2/24/99 1 John 1:9
We are sinners. We sin every day. When we think we are not sinners we have sinned by questioning the Lord. The critical step that I must learn to establish in my daily life is a willingness to confess sin. You know the things we think of as little sins. Those sins that we tend to gloss over, like selfishness, arrogance, white lies and many others. They don’t seem bad. But God judges all sin as sin. Cleanse me Lord from unrighteousness. And, He will.

2/25/99 2 Corinthians 7:10
When caught red handed many are extremely sorry for what they have done. The question is would they have changed if they hadn’t been caught? Any secret sin in your life that would embarrass you if revealed? If there is, repent of your sin. Don’t wait to be caught. Turn back to the Lord and He will forgive you and give you the strength to change!

2/26/99 John 6:37
Jesus works in union with God. He seeks to do only those things that please the Father. Jesus is seeking to help us. It is God’s will that we lead an abundant life. It is God’s will that we grow in our relationship with Him. When we come to Jesus we can trust that we are with God!

2/27/28 Philippians 2:13
Do the work God rewards. Listen to the Lord. He encourages. Do the work it feels right. God enables. Change begins and the work grows. Day by day we live our lives. Day by day is how we serve God.

2/28/99 Philippians 3:12
To know Christ and be like Him is my goal. It is a goal that is life consuming. It is a goal that is life long. It is a goal that will not be realized until I stand before Jesus in Heaven. Then based upon His saving work, based upon His transformation of me and as a result of His forgiveness of my sin, I will be like Him. Jesus paid it all, all to Him I owe.

1/1/99 2 Corinthians 5:1
We are filled with eternity. Not half filled or soon to be filled but full up to the brim filled. When we have Jesus in our heart we have everything that God designed for us so that we might have eternal life. That means for each one of us that there is no question about our future. It means that there are no gotchas that will be invoked by some mistake that we make along the way. We are filled with eternity and Christ lives in us.

1/2/99 2 Corinthians 5:2-4
Being filled with Christ means that we can do the next right thing. It doesn’t mean that we will always do the right thing or that others will. What it means is that we can always call home and get course corrections. That is what forgiveness is, simply a course correction. We recognize our error and go to the Father for correction. Lord, I’ve done wrong and He is faithful and righteous to forgive us. When we get back on the right course we can then do the next right thing. Our lives are built on individual action not future fears or past mistakes. Do the next right thing.

1/3/99 2 Corinthians 5:5
God is at work in us to build us into what He would have us become. Discovering God’s will involves a lot of surrender. Too often, we are busy advising God as to the speed we plan to accomplish things. God already knows the future. He isn’t misinformed about our abilities. He has a plan and a timetable. When you find yourself at the end of your rope, go back to the Father and ask Him if you have gotten ahead of His plan. If you have He will forgive you and bring peace and comfort. He will take captive those feelings of failure, pain, aggravation, irritation and lack of value. You are precious to Him. The Lord is good. All the time.

1/4/99 2 Corinthians 5:6-8
Death is frightening. We can’t control what will happen by ourselves. When we put our faith in Christ for salvation, we learn to place our trust in Him for the future. Our future is unknown and mysterious but the Lord says that He will be with us and never leave us. As we walk with Him, our faith grows and we develop a deep and abiding confidence in Him. His Word to us is that just as He cares for us now, when we die He will care for us in the next life. His commitment is for eternity, from right now until forever and forever. We can proclaim with Paul, our hope is placed in Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior.

1/5/99 2 Corinthians 5:9-10
God’s gift of salvation is free. Our life of obedience is a choice. How I live and what I do is based upon my willingness to follow Jesus. All of the saved will stand before Jesus and give an account of how they have lived. The Lord makes all of the resources of heaven available to us. We decide if we will use the resources at hand.

1/6/99 2 Corinthians 5:14-15
He acted out of love. His life was focused on me. Forgiveness for my sin was His goal. He lived for me and He died for me. This idea so overwhelmed Paul the Apostle that everyday of his life was committed to honoring Jesus. What Paul did and didn’t do was controlled by his concern for honoring Christ. I want to be like that. I want to shape my life in such a way that all I think and do and say honor Jesus, my Lord and Savior.

1/7/99 2 Corinthians 5:16-17
When we come to Jesus, he makes us new inside. We are not reformed, or rehabilitated, we are recreated into new creatures and filled with the Holy Spirit of the Living God. We are living a new life in Christ.

Know the Lord in the fullness of His love for you and power in you. Be confident in Christ and yield to the old self no longer.

1/8/99 2 Corinthians 5:18-19
Be courageous. Remember that you are called to be as He is. Love one another. Tell others that Jesus saves. Our only hope is in the salvation that the Lord Jesus Christ brings. Sin destroys, and the Lord heals. Share the Love of Christ by word and deed. Care for others as the Lord cares for you.

1/9/99 2 Corinthians 5:20
God’s Word officially designates us as ambassadors for Christ. We are the physical representatives for a spiritual kingdom. He chooses to use us as His agents to take the message of reconciliation to the world. This is a great privilege and responsibility. Peter learned of this responsibility by his failure in the courtyard of Caiaphas. Great pain and heartache stalked him the rest of his life but he never failed to tell the message of reconciliation again. Serve the Lord gladly and you will experience His presence and power continually.

1/10/99 2 Corinthians 5:21
We are not called to accomplish and then become but are called to be and then are used! What we are inside is what the Lord sees. He knows all things and He knows what we are and what we shall be. In each of us is the power to be victorious but unlike the tenets of the world, we are called to die first then be victorious. Jesus reigns in us today.

1/11/99 Galatians 6:1-2
The trail is uphill all the way when walking by faith. The battles are ferocious and the attacks are in the midst of joy, destruction is at the point of desperation until all we have is our faith. The evil one viscously pursues without any remorse those that belong to the Lord. Satan’s goal is that all that we accomplish be destroyed and in that is the victory because eternal things cannot be destroyed. So, when all around you there is only destruction, look up and remember that Satan can only destroy things that are not eternal. Jesus saves, we are eternal and He loves you. HALLELUJAH!

1/12/99 Galatians 6:3-4
We see through a glass darkly, for faith is unseen, but life is real, and yet passing away and faith is eternal and will be absorbed by love. The unreal then is the real and the real is the unreal. What we stand on today is sinking sand what we believe in is eternal iron.
Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the Word of God. When
everything else is destroyed in this life we still have our faith. Our Faith is not in health, wealth and happiness but in the Lord and Creator of the Universe, Jesus Christ.

1/13/99 Galatians 6:14
We are not alone. Jesus lives in each one of us. I have the right and responsibility to take all of the things that happen in my life and lay them at the feet of Jesus. This is called humility. I can do nothing apart from Him. On my own, I will fail. Under His leadership I will be victorious. This is my charge each day, to crucify the self and yield to the Almighty.

When we do this we are walking in the Lord. Jesus is the Way and there is no other.

1/14/99 Psalm 27:1-3
The Accuser is seeking whom he might devour. We are on his menu. The Lord is strong and mighty and we belong to Him. He will fight our fights and save us from the evil one.

Bless the name of the Lord. He is a strong tower, seeking that we might be saved.

1/15/99 Psalm 27:4
I want to live in the presence of the Lord. If I am to accomplish my goal, I must submit myself wholeheartedly to the Lord for His instruction and correction. That means that He will make me aware of my sinfulness. It will be a heartbreaker for God’s Word says that my heart is sinful beyond my ability to comprehend. Then, instruction for living and correction for the course enter in. God will not let me stray from Him if my desire is to live in His presence.

1/16/99 Psalm 27:5-6
Troubles come. Life hurts. God protects His children from the troubles and hurt of life. Not by taking His children out of the world but instead by helping them see what is important and what is passing away. We can lead worthy worthwhile lives full of wisdom and peace without a dime. Our worth is in our relationship with the Lord and each other. That is eternal. It will never end.

1/17/99 Psalm 27:7-9
It seems at times that trouble and evil go unchecked. To us time often defines truth. God is not limited by time. He is faithful and always judges fairly. We are not left alone and will never be overlooked. Because of time, things sometimes seem unfair but they are not. We can trust the Lord. God is good all the time.

1/18/99 Psalm 27:13-14
Trials can tempt our faith. They hurt. Even though it may seem that our trials will never end and that the Lord will never answer, He will meet us at the right time. God delivers. We can wait on the Lord for He often uses periods of waiting to renew, refresh, and teach us. When you face today’s trial, be calm and wait upon the Lord.

1/19/99 Romans 3:19-20
This isn’t fair. I shouldn’t suffer for that. It happened because. Ever feel that way? I do. I am learning now after so many years that when I begin to protest to the Lord about the unfairness of life, that sometimes my emotions may be because of sin lurking deep in my heart. Finding that sin is easy. I simply ask the Lord to reveal the cause of my emotions. He does. Discovering sin and dealing with it isn’t pleasant. I have to admit I was wrong. Even when the circumstances might justify my emotions, when sin is in control it is wrong. Lord forgive me of my self-centered ways, my holier than thou attitudes and the sin that so easily entangles me. He does. God is so good.

1/20/99 Romans 3:21-22
When we trust Jesus Christ to take away our sins, and they are many, we have everything that God has for us. Jesus is “God’s Everything.” We each have equal access to the cleansing forgiveness that Christ provides. There are no super saints among God’s children, only forgiven sinners. We are made whole in Christ.

1/21/99 Romans 3:23-26
In a swimming pool, everyone gets wet. In this world everyone sins and all sin is sin, it all separates us form the Father. If we refuse to recognize this basic law, then we will remain dead in our trespasses and sin. The Word of the Lord tells us that He has provided for our reconciliation to Him from death. This is a grace gift from God. Jesus died for you and for me. He is the Savior. Every person is in need of salvation.

The cross where Jesus died is the place where our problem was solved. There is no other way to the Father except through Christ. He is Lord.

1/22/99 Romans 6:17
Do you want to have a miracle? Obey God. All miracles start with obedience. Is your prayer life dry and dead ended? Obey God and He will resurrect your prayer life. Are you at your ropes end? Obey God and He will provide new rope.

God is not in the repair business. He is in the replacement business. He brings new life, new ways, new hearts, new souls and we live by faith in obedience to Him. Want a miracle? Obey God.

1/23/99 Hebrews 9:15
Jesus will save you. The promise to all of us is based on the promise to each one of us. Jesus saves the individual, not a group.

When you look at your life, forget who you are and what you have done and realize that Jesus died for you because God wants you, His creation, to have a relationship with Him, the Creator. God loves you. You belong to Him. But, you can only become a part of His Family by accepting the invitation that Christ offers for your salvation. Ask Jesus to forgive you of your sin and come into your heart and save you. Jesus saves.

1/24/99 Matthew 20:25-28
It is very difficult for us to give up our authority. We find our value and worth in what we do. Jesus says that our value and worth is based on what we are. If we care for others and strive to serve others we find welling up from deep within our soul a real sense of purpose, and worth. This will transcend time so that at age 65 when we survey the panorama of our life the Holy Spirit will bear witness to our spirit that we have made valuable investments. Don’t base your life on things that moth and rust destroy. Serving one another is real leadership. A real leader is a servant. Jesus served others and so can you.

1/25/99 Matthew 21:19-22
The fig tree looked good but it was barren. There was no substance, only an appearance. I look at my life and am often convicted when I find myself saying things that I don’t do. That is form over substance. Too many times we will find ourselves talking one game and walking another. Any truth here?

Guard yourself from foolish living. Bring your life before the scrutiny of the Lord. He will guide, direct and protect you.

1/26/99 Matthew 22:35-40
They were talking with Jesus about their 600 laws. One of them wanted Jesus to identify the most important one. He did. God is first and people count. We should develop an evaluative process where everything we do is reviewed with that in mind. God is first and people count. Love is a worthy focus for our lives. It is God’s focus!

1/27/99 Matthew23:8-11
When we serve others we become aware of their needs. A life of service helps us to get over a self-centered lifestyle. Jesus’ example was that a valuable life is found in service to others. The problem is that we often omit serving those around us. Some how or another, people get it in their mind that service will happen at a point in the future, tomorrow, when they are prepared. Being a servant always happens where we are. Opportunity to serve often happens when we are not prepared.

1/28/99 Matthew 23:12
I want to be and feel valuable. Sometimes, life grinds me down and I don’t get what I feel is my due. My emotions boil over and in my sin I expound on my virtue, and value. ‘I did’ becomes my mantra. When I recover my senses, it is usually during a point of discovery on my knees before the Lord. He reminds me that I am valuable. He assures me that He knows who and where I am and that He will never forget me. He forgives me and encourages me to be mindful of others, their feelings and their need for encouragement.

1/29/99 Matthew 24:45-47
Faithfulness as a servant is an indication of our faith in the Lord. He has said that His return will be soon. If you believe that then every encounter you have will have a freshness and urgency about it that the world cannot rob. Look up, Jesus is coming soon.

1/30/99 Psalm 127:1
A family without God can never experience the spiritual bond that the Lord brings to relationships. A country that is not based upon the Lord will crumble from the inside. Pray today for our country and our families. People need the Lord.

1/31/99 Psalm 32:1-2
God clears our record when we go to Him and seek His forgiveness. The problem is that it takes a real head jolt by the Lord to get my attention many times. I get caught up in alibis and excuses. Finally, when at the point of awareness I go to the Lord on my knees. Lord cleanse me from unrighteousness is my plea. He does. Jesus is in the forgiveness business. I thank the Lord that He is.

December 1 .. John 1: 1,2,& 14
Jesus is fully man and fully God. What Jesus did and what Jesus taught are a part of who He is. Jesus is the Creator of all things and in Him all things exist. He is the source of eternal life and without Him nothing exists. Jesus is the truth and the foundation of all truth. He came into this world in the flesh so that you would know that He loves you and that you are not alone. You can have a relationship with Him simply by recognizing that you are a sinner and asking Him to come into your heart and save you. Blessed be the name of the Lord.

December 2 Hebrews 1:1-2
The disciples said they walked with Him, worked with Him, listened to Him, and were taught by Him. They were part of the work He did on earth. Then, the third day after His crucifixion they saw Him alive. He conquered death. Jesus had provided for us beyond death. More importantly, Jesus wants us to know that He has provided for us in life. We count. We are loved.

December 3 John 6:35
Life is tough, unfair, and disappointing. We live for ourselves and wind up in the desert. Tired, hungry and disillusioned we try to build our own lives. Jesus is the master builder. He provides the food we need for life. He refreshes us at just the right time. Never late or short on supply, Jesus meets our need when the hour of testing arrives. We each must choose whether it will be our way or His way. Jesus will meet your need.

December 4 John 8:12
Everything was just fine and then suddenly kapow, the rug was pulled out from under me. Ever find yourself feeling that way? That’s because we walk in darkness. We don’t know what the next minute will bring.  When we focus on Jesus and trust in Him we walk in the light. Surprises will come but we will always be equipped to stand in the moment of surprise. Jesus shines into the darkness of the future. We are safe in His hands.

December 5 John 10: 7-10
Jesus is our Guarantor in life and in death. He assures us that in Him we will find eternal life. The Word of God declares that once we have Jesus in our hearts, we will always be His and that nothing can ever separate us from Him.  That my dear friend is abundant life.

December 6 John 10:14-15
For me He died. He knew the depth of my sin. He knew the failures I would commit. He knew that many times the only thing that would connect with me would be His love. Therefore, He resolutely walked to the cross for me. This was 2,000 years ago but is just as powerful and fresh as though it happened today. My sin put Him on the cross. Yours did too. He loves you.

December 7 John 11:25-26
Jesus has power over life and death. He forgives our sin. He provides access to the Father. There is no other way to the Father. When you believe that in Christ you have spiritual life death cannot conquer. Jesus said that we would live again. What a promise. What a savior.

December 8 John 14:6
Jesus provides direct access to the Father if we place our faith in Him. This is too simple for many to believe. Some create complex and foolish fairy tales to bet their life and eternity on. We can know and trust that our faith in Jesus is the way, the truth and the life. Without Christ, we are dead in our trespasses and sin. This is a simple, direct and eternal truth. Christ is God’s everything.

December 9 John 15:5
The fruit that Jesus speaks of includes soul winning. But, in this same chapter, the Lord also mentions answered prayer, joy and love as fruit. The truth is that the fruit that Jesus speaks of is a full and growing relationship with a Holy God. You and I have access to the Lord in Christ. Indeed, Jesus is God. What a wonderful savior we have.

December 10 Deuteronomy 18:15
The coming of Jesus Christ to the earth to save us from our sin was not an after thought by God. It was always a part of God’s original plan. You are not an afterthought. Where you are and what you do is important to God. You are His representative. Be sure that as you face today’s challenges God included them and you in His original plan.

December 11 Isaiah 7:14
Blessed be the heart that hears this message from the very heart of God. A plan birthed before time began is revealed to a prophet. A message heard and shared by faith. For each one of us the Lord has a similar faith message. He loves us and has a wonderful plan for our lives. Blessed be the heart that by faith receives the love of God and by faith lives as the beloved of God. Love one another as he has loved you.

December 12 Galatians 4:4-5
God is in control of all things. His timing is accurate and perfect. Because of Christ we have the privilege of having an intimate relationship with this perfect and Holy God. He will respond to our prayers because He loves us. He will meet our need because we belong to Him. Trust His judgement and timing. Remember that He has our best interests in His heart.

December 13 Matthew 2:4-6
God has birthed in you His plan for your life. It is a grand plan of magnificent proportions because it includes the privilege of leading people dead in their trespasses and sins to eternal life. You are God’s only plan for some or many that you come into contact with. Someone you know will only be sensitive to the message that you can share. Share the message of God’s saving grace every chance you get. This message is simply telling someone else what the Lord has done for you. God is love.

December 14 Luke 1:26-28
Mary was young, poor and female. She had no formal theological training. God spoke to her. Gabriel, who had spoken to Daniel 500 years before, delivered a message from God to Mary. God valued Mary.

Do you feel unusable? What do you see as the reason for your alienation from God? Are you aware that our sin is the only thing that separates us from God? Jesus forgives our sin. Ask Him to forgive you. When He does, you are valued by God.

December 15 Luke 1:30-33
God sure is different than we are. He knows the future. We have a most difficult time dealing with the present. The Lord’s plan for our salvation was always His plan. He never had another plan. Jesus is God’s only way for us to come to Him. Jesus is the way, the truth and the life and there is no other way to the Father but through Him.

December 16 Luke 1:46-49
The Lord is the champion of the poor, the oppressed and the despised. He is in love with all of His creation. He is seeking for each one of us to become more than simply His creation. God would that each one of us comes to a saving knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ. This makes us God’s children. And such we are in Christ. In Christ the solid rock I stand. All other ground is sinking sand. Come to Jesus today.

December 17 Matthew 1:68-70
God speaks to us when He decides to speak to us. Most of the time it will be when we least expect it. His attention to our lives is discussed many times in the Bible.

Big things get our attention. The Father notices everything that happens in our lives. We get tripped up when we aren’t paying attention. God is always paying attention. When you get tripped up, we can turn to Jesus. Ask Him for the help you need. He is faithful in our time of need. Bless the name of the Lord.

December 18 Luke 1:68-70
Zechariah proclaims his great joy at the Lord’s activity. Prophecy is being fulfilled in Zechariah’s lifetime.

Zechariah proclaimed the glory of the Lord’s salvation. We are also called to proclaim the salvation of the Lord. We announce to others what Jesus has done in us. We tell others about the saving activity of God. They hear what we proclaim. We are a part of God’s prophecy. We are co-workers together with Christ. We feel defeated and are victorious. Our lives look little but they are a part of the saving activity of the Lord. God would that no one be lost. Our life and our proclamation is a part of that wonderful commitment of the Lord God to His creation. What a savior.

December 19 Luke 1:76-79
It is no secret what God can do. He has used others and He can use you. It takes surrender and willingness to serve. When you are faithful and trustworthy you are exactly what God thought of when He made you. Fearfully and wonderfully made, worthy and useful, full of the value that only God can make, that’s you, child of God. Jesus Christ is alive.

December 20 Luke 2:1-5
A virgin and a carpenter carrying the future of the world with them. Who would you have chosen to be involved with bringing salvation to the world? What would it cost? What would they give up? What would the world think of them?

God chooses you. He would that no one be lost. His will is that each one of us take the proclamation of the Gospel message to those that we come into contact with. Tell them the Good News… Messiah has come and he has come so that we might have forgiveness of sin and a relationship with God.

December 21 Luke2:6-7
This is the event that divides all of mankind. There is history before the birth of Christ and then history after the birth of Christ. This event is as powerful and fresh as if it was happening this very day. God can do anything. The Lord God has chosen to do everything for us in Christ. Bless the name of the Lord.

December 22 Luke 2:8-11
What do you do when there is no way out? Good news, God has made a way for you. The shepherds were elated by the news the angels brought. Life would no longer be an impossible journey. God had intervened. Now, the Lord Himself would be with them. The Savior of mankind had come.

This news is so wonderful that we can’t help but share it with others. Forgiveness for our sin is at hand. We are called to turn from our godless ways and discover the way in Jesus. Jesus is Lord.

December 23 Luke 2:11-14
The Jews were looking for deliverance from the Romans. Some were looking for deliverance from physical ailments. Jesus, the Messiah, delivers us from our sin. He makes that which is Godless, full of God. When we recognize our sin, ask for forgiveness and for Him to take control of our lives, He gives us a new heart, and we become new creatures in Christ. We are full of God. We are now on the Lord’s side.

December 24 Luke 2:16-20
Every time we seek to bless we find that we are blessed. Out of our concern for others comes real benefit for our souls. We need assurances about the value of our lives. God delivers those assurances in the midst of our following Him. We hear the promise and act upon it. In the process of our action, the Lord acts upon us. We seek the truth and it is with us. Blessing upon blessing covers the lives of those that strive to follow Jesus.

December 25 Isaiah 9:6
Praise the Lord. Praise Him with every breath that you take. Praise Him in your weakness. Shout joyfully in your defeat. Stand and sing His praise in your victory. Let every thought that you think praise the Lord. In all that you do praise Him.

The Lord has come. He is worthy of all your praise. It is good to praise the Lord. Praise ye the Lord.

December 26 Luke 2:28-32
I am overwhelmed when I am confronted by my sin. I am stung by the fact that He died for me. He died that I might be released from the bondage of my sin. Now, I can choose to conquer sin. Before, I was dead in my sin. What a great blessing to be freed from the darkness and slavery of sin. Praise God I am free.

God’s Grace saves you. Focusing on works causes you to stumble. When you look at a person that is different than you, remember that Christ also died for him or her. Jesus came for all mankind. He would that every person might be saved. Not just people like us, but for people that love Him.

December 27 Psalm 103:1-2
Real blessing comes to those who see themselves in the truth. Without Jesus we are dead in our trespasses and sins. With Christ we have direct access to the Father. In Jesus we can grow in a personal relationship with the Lord of the Universe. Bless the name of the Lord for in Him we have everything that we need to live a victorious life. Bless the Lord O my soul.

December 28 Matthew 11:28
Now, our Christmas season comes to a grinding halt. After all of the excitement and family and revelry, there is a tendency to get depressed. This is natural and human and is caused by many different reasons but can be cured in our relationship with Jesus.

Find a quiet place and get before the Lord. Start this very day to map out a growth plan for you in the Lord. This should include daily Bible reading, a regular quiet time and an organized approach to prayer. Spend some time praying for others. Relax in the Lord. He will give you real peace and rest.

December 29 John 14:1-3
Be blessed today. You are free in Christ. Whatever bondage you were under now you are free.

In your quiet time, praise the Lord for the privilege of your relationship with Him and your freedom in Christ. This will infuse joy into your soul. Bless His Holy name. Jesus is Lord.

December 30 John 16:33
The world is full of worry and woe. Everyone is in search of peace. In spite of our struggles Jesus offers to us peace. We are charged with the responsibility of choosing His peace. It comes by obedience. The Lord is interested in our obedience. Jesus wants us to have what we need for an abundant life. Peace is a part of that and is the result of our obedience to the Word of God and the activity of God in our lives.

December 31 Isaiah 43:18-19
What was your year like? Did anything happen that you would like to change or get a chance to redo? In Jesus we get a redo. In Jesus we have the opportunity to fix the things we broke. We get a chance to change the things that should be changed and develop things that we have just started. When we cry out to the Lord He hears us. When we look for the new and better way he helps us. Jesus is in the survival business. In Him we have eternal life. Jesus is Lord.

November 1 .. Galatians 6:7-8
Things change. They can change for good or bad. Our thoughts are the seeds we plant to shape our future. Plant thoughts that bear the fruit of righteousness. Turn your thoughts to the Lord. Let Him have your attention and devotion. Good thoughts bear good change. Jesus stands beside us we go through change.

November 2 .. Galatians 5: 19-22
Are you constantly struggling to deal with deeds of the flesh in your life? The trouble is you. Go to a quiet place and meet with the Lord. Set a time for the meeting and ask the Lord to focus your mind and quiet your heart. Confess your deeds of the flesh to the Lord. Ask Him to enable you to change. Surrender your will to Him. From that moment forward walk on the Lord’s path. You will find Godly change begin to take hold in your life. The Lord is faithful.

November 3 .. 1 John 3:16-18
Love is not a feeling it is an action. When you tell people you love them and do something to hurt them you are lying. Saying you love doesn’t make it so. Doing for others says you love them. Jesus died on the cross for the forgiveness of your sin. Jesus loves you.

November 4 .. Luke 6:35
This is a hard saying for Sunday Christians. You cannot love those that mistreat you apart from the power of God in your life. We love those that hate us not because they are lovely but because we are forgiven. God’s forgiveness of our sin releases us from bondage to sin. We are saved to serve those that hate us.

November 5 .. John 15:13
We are called to live lives of diligent servitude. We are birthed into God’s kingdom so that we can serve. Our struggle is not with flesh and blood but with the powers and principalities of the air. These evil minions seek to addict us to a self-centered, me-first lifestyle. Christ calls us to a servant lifestyle. There is a difference. Know how to tell? Whose feet have you washed today?

November 6 .. John 15:11
The winds of change may buffet us but Jesus is always with us. Jesus guards our heart. He brings an inner joy that overcomes failure. We may fail at everything we do but when we walk with the Lord he guards our joy. Consistent times with Christ the Lord fills us with indestructible joy.

November 7 .. John 16:20
We are misfits in this world. It promotes death we die for life. It favors greed we value selflessness. The world rejects forgiveness and instead honors might. Keep your eye on the future and live beside the Lord’s promises. You are not alone.

November 8 .. Hebrews 12:2
There is something in your life right now that is causing you deep pain and misery. For whatever reason you continue to fix this problem on your own. Lay it on the altar before Jesus. Everytime you face this problem stop where you are and quietly turn to Christ. Simply say to Jesus, Lord I’ve been trying to fix this on my own. Help me deal with this problem. Jesus endured the cross for you. Let Him have your pains and misery.

November 9 .. John 14:27
Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine. Don’t fear the present for the Lord is here with you. Give Him your past, His forgiveness is complete and total. Forget the worry the future brings for when we get there, it will be now and He is with us. Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine.

November 10 .. Hebrews 12:14-15
A right relationship with God is the foundation for a right relationship with our fellow man. Sin always blocks our vision of the Lord. When we dislike the folks around us we create an opportunity for evil to grow. Resentment, jealousy, dissension, and immorality are the fruits of a selfish and bitter life. We should immediately repent and turn to the Lord. Do not be fooled, you can’t love the Lord and hate your fellowman.

November 11 .. Philippians 4:6-7
God has you first on His list. He will take care of you. Do you believe that? Then stop worrying. Everytime you feel a sense of anxiety, talk to the Lord instead of yourself. Put your emotions in His hands. Ask Him to give you an actively peaceful heart.

November 12 .. Ephesians 4:1-2
We feel unimportant. However, we are representatives of the Sovereign Lord, Jesus Christ. Humility, gentleness, patience, understanding, forgiveness, and peacefulness are all characteristics of Christ. People are watching you. Does your life resonate with Christ likeness?

November 13 .. Colossians 1:9-11
How in the world can we add additional stuff to lives that are already too busy? Ever find yourself in that shape? Christ calls us to a relationship with Him. This is a simpler lifestyle than the world fashions. In Christ we find the time and resources that we need to accomplish the task He has set before us. Focus on Jesus and He will focus on you.

November 14  .. 1 Peter 2:20
Who do you love? Jesus died on the Cross that you might have a relationship with God. He loves you. His love provides the opportunity for your relationship with the Father. Love is an action not a feeling. Do the right thing each time you face life’s challenges. This action of love brings a smile to the Face of God.

November 15 Proverbs 14:22
Always planning good is one of the characteristics of a wise person. We can choose what we plan to do. Good or evil is a choice that we must make in every plan that we prepare. But as for me and my house we will follow the Lord. Make plans for good each day.

November 16 Micah 6:8
Are you fair in your dealings with other people? When people wrong you are you merciful in your treatment and thoughts towards them? Are you learning to be humble? Pleasing God involves caring for each person in our lives. Jesus died that all might have life. Each person we come into contact with is a person that Christ died for. Obey God and look to your daily habits.

November 17 Colossians 3:12
I am interested in what God thinks. God thinks about people. He loves people. He is interested in all people receiving His love and knowing that God loves them. I deal with people many times each day. If I am interested in what God thinks, I will deal with these people in love. You should too.

November 18 Romans 12:2
This world is selfish. When we follow the ways of the world we become corrupt and useless. Daily we are called to renew our minds with the Word and presence of the Living Lord. This takes time and commitment. Today, as you struggle with the world be warned about your devotional life. No time with the Lord translates into defeat and impotence. Daily time with the Lord is our need.

November 19 Philippians 4:8
God’s Word is the change agent in our lives. We need to pay careful attention when we read the Word of God in our daily devotions. Consistent, continual reading of the Word of God prepares our minds, convicts us of our sin and directs our hearts. This kind of preparation enables us to stand in the time of temptation instead of walking with temptation.

November 20 1 Timothy 5:25
We are called to live Godly lives. Whether we are noticed or obscure we cannot escape this basic Christian responsibility. The promise we have from the Lord is that everything we do for the cause of Christ will be revealed. Some acts will be revealed in this life and some in the life to come. The Lord has His reasons and we know they are good. He loves each one of us as if we were the only one. What a savior. You are beloved of God.

November 21 Matthew 25:21
God expects our faithfulness. Are you in a little place? God wants you to know that there are no little places in His kingdom. Are you in a big place? God wants you to know that He has put you there to be faithful to Him. Temptation will find you wherever you are. The Lord calls each one of us to be found faithful where we are. Our faithfulness cannot wait until we are where we would like to be. Bloom where the Lord plants you, in Jesus name.

November 22 Revelation 2:10
Satan is our adversary. Do not be confused when tribulation comes your way, it is not from the Lord, it is from Satan. If you are struggling like a puppet on a string call out to the Lord for help. Stand fast and hold on to the promises of God for the Lord will come to your aid. He may bring comfort or change but He will come to you. The Lord is a loving and caring Father and He will not neglect a single one of His children.

November 23 2 Timothy 2:13
Jesus’ faithfulness deserves our deepest gratitude. His faithfulness to us is not dependent on our actions. There will be a time when our faith is weak. Maybe there will even be a time when we are unfaithful to the Lord. When we discover our situation and repent the grief will be deep. The heart of the Lord Jesus Christ is focused on us as individuals. He loves us based on His promise and not our performance. Love is the way that Jesus is and faithfulness is the way that He responds.

November 24 Titus 3:1-2
Christians cannot survive in a wicked society without the power of God controlling their lives. We would wake up everyday wondering what to do or say, never sure if we were doing the right thing. When Jesus comes into our lives He brings the power of God without measure. We will have what we need for every situation. It takes great power to be a peaceful, Godly citizen in a wicked society. In Jesus you have that power. Blessed be the name of the Lord.

November 25 Galatians 6:1
We cannot afford to have pharisaical attitudes towards others when they sin. This is an open door for Satan to attack us. What we should do is reach out a helping hand with the knowledge that, but for the grace of God we too could be in the same mess. Fellow Christians that have fallen need our forgiveness and help. Our love for them will help them as they go through the process of repentance and restoration. When we help the fallen we are doing the Lord’s work in Jesus name.

November 26 1 Peter 3:15
Christ is the Lord, whether or not we make Him Lord of our lives. We must be willing to spend the time to get to know the Lord or we will be doomed to third party conversations about Jesus. For us to speak about the Lord in a kind and gentle way, we must know Him. When we have a constant relationship with the Lord, we will have something to say when someone asks us about out faith. Our faith is not what we think about but what we do. Jesus will lead you by your hand every single day.

November 27 1 Corinthians 9:27
It is easy to tell others how to live and then forget to take our own advice. When we preach Christ and fail to practice a Christlike life we turn off other Christians and disqualify ourselves from helping others. Hypocrisy is a disease that is easy to see in others but hard to recognize in our own lives. Live by the Word of God and He will point our your sin. Jesus loves you.

November 28 1 Timothy 4:7
Our spiritual health is critically important. We cannot face temptation or survive tragedies without being in a strong spiritual condition. Check your spiritual strength. Are you practicing your faith everyday? Is the Word of God your constant companion? When you stumble do your curse or pray? Get on a good spiritual training program. Only you by the power of the Lord Jesus can change your spiritual health.

November 29 2 Peter 1:5-8
Faith is not a belief in certain facts. Godly faith is our actions that result in growth in character, moral lifestyle, knowing Christ better, self-control, patience, godliness and loving others. Change to become like Christ takes hard work and careful attention. We should regularly review how we living and what we are doing in the light of God’s love for us in Christ. God empowers and enables, we choose each day whether we will accept God’s leadership and grow.

November 30 Galatians 6:9
Weariness is an attack on our souls. When we become weary, we are prone to look at things through our own eyes and our own strength. This calls for immediate attention on our part. Get before the Lord in prayer and ask Him to bring you the strength to overcome your weariness. He will send exactly what you need and you will survive. Our lives are sometimes simply a matter of survival. Jesus is the conqueror, we are His and in Christ we can survive.