Success or Failure

Acts 18:6

And when they opposed and reviled him, he shook out his garments and said to them, "Your blood be on your own heads! I am innocent. From now on I will go to the Gentiles."

Paul was in Corinth staying with other tentmakers, a man and his wife, Aquilla and Priscilla. Each Sabbath day he would go to the synagogue and reason with the Jews about Jesus. But when they reviled and opposed him, he shook out his garments and said, Your blood be on your own heads! I am innocent. From now on I will go to the Gentiles." Opposition had taught him to turn and flee. He had already endured stoning and imprisonment.  It was time for him to go.

He went next door to the home of Titius Justus, a fellow worshiper. Here he learned it was not as bad as he thought. Crispus, the ruler of the synagogue and his household believed as did many other Corinthians. The Lord spoke to Paul in a vision one night, "Do not be afraid, but go on speaking and do not be silent, for I am with you, and no one will attack you to harm you, for I have many in this city who are my people."  And of course Paul stayed a year and a half teaching the word.

Paul's initial response was totally human, one that would have occurred to any of us in similar situations. When things get tough, or we meet repeated rejection in an area, we tend to run or quit. Even Paul who was so close to the Lord, had this response. But as soon as the Lord spoke to him, he obeyed. Like Paul, I may have human feelings or thoughts about a place, but what matters most is what God tells me to do. Many missionaries have encountered just such opposition, Adoniram Judson ministered his entire life, lost his wife, and still saw hardly any fruit for the Lord, or the sacrifice of Jim Elliot and his friends at the hands of the Auca Indians. And then later when the wives went back, they did become believers. What huge hearts they had for the Lord! Hearts that are willing to sacrifice all! So the success of a ministry is not the gauge of its success, instead it is if the Lord has commanded it. 

Father,

Thank You for such a valuable lesson. Make my heart pure and strong so that I may follow Your lead. Help me not be so influenced by what others think.

In Jesus name,

Amen

One Thing

Ps. 27

This psalm has an abundance of  musical and poetic verses, and yet what I love about it has more to do with the content. However, with that said, perhaps it is the poetic, musical writing style that enhances the content. Yes, God thoughts breathed out through David produced something that has brought comfort and hope to countless generations, me included!

 I can't begin reading v. 1 without hearing the majestic melodies of  The Lord Is My Light. That association is there forever. The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? What is a man compared to my God? Why then do I fear man if I know that God has the upper hand at all times? I guess it is not a lack of faith that God will act, but it more of an acceptance of what His will might be. Either way, where is my faith? David knows that his confidence is in the Lord and so must mine be also. I must not fear the places where following His will might take me. 

Verses 4-5 have impacted my soul so often. They translate in the most beautiful way my heart's desire. One thing have I asked of the LORD, that will I seek after: that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the LORD and to inquire in his temple.

For he will hide me in his shelter in the day of trouble; he will conceal me under the cover of his tent; he will lift me high upon a rock. One thing...was this David's overarching request? He consistently sought for the heart of God, and wanted nothing better than to dwell in God's house. Is this gazing upon His beauty just a poetic statement? Can we gaze upon His beauty? I think this gazing is the personal, transparent communication and time spent with our God. No doubt we will not have the confidence of v. 1 without the intimacy of v. 4. David was a man after God's own heart. Secondly, he wanted to inquire of the Lord face to face. As he gazed in worship, he was free to inquire. What an example for all believers to emulate! A personal experience of worship had transformed his life. Is this possible for me? Of course. I can see and know God through His word and through His Spirit leading me in my prayers. I only have to access these gifts. Why does saying that seem like such a let down compared to David's words?  Maybe believers haven't been in the word enough to allow these wonderful times of intimacy to happen. Are we trying to gaze as we are on the run? Is our gazing part of a check list? Has it reduced are gazing and inquiring to the bare minimum? Are they part of our One thing, or are our minds so clouded with the world that these verses seem out of left field. It speaks to the priorities of all believers and uniquely to me. What is the end result? My life will be hidden with Christ in God. Hidden in His shelter, concealed under the cover of His tent, and lifted high upon the rock! What more? Glorious! Beautiful! [I definitely think the beauty of these words made the content more precious. They have become a soul-song to me.]

v. 11 is another representation of how I pray. Teach me your way, O LORD, and lead me on a level path because of my enemies. For David they were physical enemies who sought to take his life. Not to say that I don't have enemies like that or won't have enemies like that in the future, but for now I have temptations. They are seeking to bring me down, to make me lose hope, and to bring discouragements in droves. But I can claim this prayer. I can pray it back to God. and He will answer. I can quietly go to gazing and inquiring. My heart can be renewed in His strength.

And in verses 13-14 David ends hopefully. I believe that I shall look upon the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living! Wait for the LORD; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the LORD! No matter the enemies, or how close they are, or if his men are deserting, or if his own children are seeking his life, No matter. David has hope! He believes what is true about God. He will look on the goodness of the Lord. And wait! Waiting is so hard for anyone. We are impatient because our lives are often speeding out of control. I imagine David was impatient for God to act, to save his life. Regardless, David had to wait, to be strong, and take courage. I notice he says wait twice. I am sure that lesson was a reality in His life. Believers need constant reminding to wait on the Lord, not to do what we think is God's will in our strength. He doesn't need our help. He needs our waiting. In waiting we have slowed down enough to hear Him and to look on His goodness, His attributes, His divine power, and what He had done in our lives and in David's life. What a blessing this psalm brings! My heart is stirred. I can only imagine how many believers have felt exactly the same way as I have this morning.

Father,
Thank You for speaking through David so that I might hear these beautiful words loaded with meaning just for my life. Keep me ever gazing on Your beauty and waiting for what you have for me. Teach me to know You better.
In Jesus name,
Amen

Two Responses

Acts 17:1-15

v. 6 

These men who have turned the world upside down have come here also.

Paul and Silas traveled through Thessalonica where they found the synagogue and began to teach the Scriptures. Paul did this for three days which was their normal plan. Some were persuaded, mainly Greeks and some leading women, but the Jews were jealous! In their tirade they gathered some wicked men and formed a mob setting the city in an uproar. They could not find Paul or Silas so they came to Jason's door, a man who had housed the missionary team. He and some brothers were dragged to the authorities. The charge was that These men who have turned the world upside down have come here also. The leaders were disturbed as well until Jason gave them money and were let go. Even those who disbelieve know that Jesus and His followers had truly changed the world. 

Response: Hostile and violent, unresponsive to the gospel except for a few

After being sent away, Paul and Silas went to Berea and immediately went to the Synagogue to teach the Scriptures. These Jews received the word with all eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily to see if these things were so. Many Jews, Greeks and some leading women believed. When the agitators heard about what was happening Berea, they came on a dead run to cause more trouble. Paul was sent away, and Silas and Timothy stayed to teach the people and would later join Paul.

Response: More Noble, responsive to the gospel, not hostile or violent

The Jews in both of these towns were close in distance but world's apart in the responses to the gospel. Although the Greeks and the leading women responded similarly, no doubt because they were not in the Jewish community either. As outcasts they had greater freedom with which to evaluate what was being said. Maybe to some of them the ideas were new and captivating. However, the Jews were blinded by the spirit of the Pharisees and not able to see the true condition of their souls. Deniability might have been one thing, but they swung all the way to violence and rioting using their age-old excuse that Jesus was claiming to be another king and disobeying the decrees of Caesar. The Jews themselves were not ready-on-the-spot Roman citizens, but found this claim a handy excuse when it suited them as they did with Jesus Himself and now again with those proclaiming His message. Jesus Christ is the great divider of the human heart, to believing hearts he is life and light, but to unbelieving hearts he is death and darkness. 

Father,

Thank You for showing me how the human heart needs Jesus. Without Him hearts fall for foolish ideas and those who manipulate those ideas. Keep my eyes open to see such people so that my heart may remain fully Yours and so that I can be light to others. 

In Jesus name,

Amen

Deliverances

Acts 16;16-40

Paul and Silas in Prison

The cause: Paul and Silas had been dogged by a slave girl who had a spirit of divination. She was used by her owners as a fortune teller. After several days, Paul was annoyed with her, perhaps annoyed that he didn't want her voice connected with their gospel. So Paul in the name of Jesus commanded her evil spirit to come out. Her owners were livid and dragged Paul and Silas into the marketplace.

The Event: In the marketplace they were taken before the magistrates charging them with disturbing the city and  teaching customs that they as Romans should not do. As the crowd was gaining fervor,  

the magistrates said to rip off their clothes and beat them with rods. After beating them to a pulp, they were put in the inner prison and had their feet fastened with stocks. 

God's Deliverance:  About midnight, while the two were in prison, they began singing hymns to God. Their hearts were rejoicing in God when suddenly there was an earthquake. The doors were opened and all the bonds were unfastened. When the jailer saw what had happened, he assumed the prisoners had escaped so he drew his sword to kill himself. Paul called out to him that they were still there. He ran to them and fell at his feet. As if an bond-freeing earthquake were not enough, it was time for the real miracle. He wanted to be saved. It was simple, Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household. They shared the message with all who were in the jailer's home. He washed their wounds and they baptized his cleansed spirit. Two waters passing because of the Living Water. Of course they ate and rejoiced. 

The Justice: The police came and said the magistrates decided to let them go. Really! After that miraculous jail break! But Paul said no, not enough. They had beaten Roman citizens publicly and uncondemned, He refused to depart unless they came personally and apologized. And they were quick to do so, in fact they were afraid when they found out they were Roman citizens. After the apology they asked them to leave the city. And they did after visiting with the brothers in this city.

What an account! The deliverance of God's messengers or the deliverance of  human souls! Both are so exciting. God has delivered me many times. Not in a jail cell or in an earthquake, but in my soul. His hand is always on me. 

Father,

Don't let my humanity limit what You want to do with my soul. How great is Your greatness, totally unsearchable!

In Jesus name,

Amen

The Lord's Leading

Acts 15:5

So the churches were strengthened in the faith, and they increased in numbers daily. 

Paul came back to Derbe and Lystra to deliver the message from the Jerusalem council. It was in Derbe that Paul met Timothy, a young man in the faith, whom Paul wanted to travel with him. Even though he was a Greek and did not need to be circumcised as per the message Paul delivered to the people, Paul wanted him to be circumcised. Why? As they went from town to town or even country to country, he did not want the gospel to be overshadowed by lesser issues. Paul always went to the synagogue first, and his gospel message needed to be clear. Timothy's lack of circumcision could be an issue that would block the understanding of the gospel at all. Paul was teaching Timothy one of his missionary principles, that is to the weak he would be weak that I may win the weak. I have become all things to all people, that by all means I might save some. [1 Cor. 9 22] This is a principle that many believers today should remember. Because of God's love toward us, we need to be love to others. If love is our motive, many hearts can be softened. If we meet them on the most basic issue, that is their salvation, they will not be turned away at once. What does it matter if they smoke, if there hears are not turned toward Jesus. Is it any better to make them a reformed smoker without salvation?

People have always struggled with decision-making and the will of God. Many times we have been taught to listen to the Spirit's leading as did Paul and Timothy [vs 6-10]. They were forbidden by the Spirit to go to Asia. When they came to Bithynia, the Spirit of Jesus did not allow them to go there. And then by way of a positive move, Paul had a vision in the night telling him to go to Macedonia. Even someone as close to the Lord as Paul was needed to rely on the Spirit. What an example for us! 

Then at Phillipi Paul and Timothy went outside the city to a place of prayer. There they spoke to the women who had come to the river. One of those listening was Lydia, a worshiper and a business woman who sold purple. The Lord opened her heart to pay attention to what was said by Paul. She and her household were baptized. The Lord definitely works in his people whether they are church leaders or members of the congregation. This same Spirit of Jesus and the Lord works in each one of us. Why can't we hear? Perhaps our ears are not attuned to hear, or our lives are to cluttered with worldly influences. Whatever it is, it is clear that the Lord communicates with His own.

Lord,

Help me to listen, to pay attention. Spirit draw me closer so that I might hear Your voice. 

In Jesus name,

Amen

A Yoke on the Neck

Acts 15:10

Now, therefore, why are you putting God to the test by placing a yoke on the neck of the disciples that neither our fathers nor we have been able to bear?

It is amazing how people like to make Christianity a list of rules. Believers say they are saved by grace through faith, but yet their measure of Christianity is by observable rules. These rules tend to suck the life out of believers, destroy fellowship, and foster a judgmental attitude. I know that I was attended several legalistic church. The preaching was wonderful, but the judging of one another was off the charts.

This same thing happened in Acts 15. The apostles and the elders were gathered together to discuss circumcision. Some men thought the Gentiles should be circumcised, that their salvation was not complete without it. Peter spoke first telling that it was God's will that salvation should be given to the Gentiles. They received the Holy Spirit just as the saved Jews did. That in itself should be the end all. By giving the Spirit to the Gentiles, God erased the distinction between them. Then Peter spoke out strongly saying, Now, therefore, why are you putting God to the test by placing a yoke on the neck of the disciples that neither our fathers nor we have been able to bear?  In essence this legalism was putting God to the test. They were not resting in salvation by grace. They wanted man to have to do something. Peter concluded with we believe that we will be saved through the grace of the Lord Jesus, just as they will. When he finished, the room was silent.. And so it should!

Paul began speaking next. After he quoted Scripture that reinforced what Peter had said, he agreed except for abstaining things polluted by idols, sexual immorality, from what has been strangled, and from blood. All of these things are how a believer should live after salvation not prerequisites for salvation. 

So the matter was settled. They decided to write a letter to this effect sending it with Paul and Barnabas as they traveled back to Antioch. In addition they sent Silas and Barsabbas with them to further solidify these questions in the minds of believers. It was good to all, including the Holy Spirit, to lay on them no greater burden except the things mentioned by Paul. Crisis averted! Adding legalism would have squelched the fervor of the early church. But instead it grew by leaps and bounds. The gospel was free to work in the lives of many. 

Father,

Keep me from a judgmental eye. Help me to rejoice in the salvation of others and to fellowship with them. Jesus, Your gospel is so wonderful and undeserved, but because of Your grace it was given freely to those who were drawn by the Spirit. Praise God, I was one of those people.

In Jesus name,

Amen

The Open Door for the Gentiles

Acts 14:27-28

And when they arrived and gathered the church together, they declared all that God had done with them, and how he had opened a door of faith to the Gentiles.

And they remained no little time with the disciples.

Paul and Barnabas traveled to Iconium where they entered the Jewish Synagogue. As they preached the gospel, a great number of people believed including Jews and Gentiles. But the unbelieving Jews poisoned the minds of the people against Paul and Barnabas. Still they were able to continue speaking boldly, bearing witness of His grace, and performing signs and wonders with their hands. But just as the work of the Lord increased so did the division that the unbelieving Jews. They were privy to the plot to stone them.so they fled to Lystra and Derbe and the surrounding country.

At Lystra they healed a man who had been crippled from birth.When the people saw such things, they declared Paul and Barnabas to be gods calling Paul Hermes and Barnabas Zeus. The priest of Zeus brought garlands and oxen so that they might sacrifice with the people. But Paul immediately quelled that behavior. He called for them to leave these vain things and follow the living God, the God of creation. He pointed out the witnesses of God in nature, but the people were scarcely restrained. Then into the mix came unbelieving Jews from Antioch and Iconium who persuaded the people to stone Paul and Barnabas. After dragging them out of the city, they left them assuming they were dead. But when the disciples gathered round them, they got up and entered the city. The next day they went to Derbe.

After preaching in Derbe, they made many disciples, strengthening the souls of the disciples, encouraging them to continue in the faith, and saying that through many tribulations they must enter the kingdom of God.  They appointed elders and with prayer and fasting they committed them to the Lord. After this, they traveled to Perga and Attalia speaking the word. Finally they traveled back to Antioch, their starting place. Here they declared all that God had done and how He had opened a door faith to the Gentiles. 

The pattern had been established. Go to an area, preach the word, encounter persecution from the unbelieving, and disciple all those who did believe, and the return toy way of discipling, they strengthened them in the word so that they could withstand persecution. They encouraged them letting them know they were not alone. And they verified the fact that through tribulation they would enter the kingdom. The gospel to the Gentiles was spreading. The church was growing. They were fulfilling Acts 1:8.

Father,

Help me to speak boldly the gospel of Jesus. I confess many times I am afraid. Forgive me and give me Your grace.

In Jesus name,

Amen

As Appointed

Acts 13:47, 52

For so the Lord has commanded us, I have made you a light to the Gentiles, that you may bring salvation to the ends of the earth. 

And the disciples were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit.

Paul and Barnabas were still preaching in the temple continuing on with the story of Jesus' death and resurrection. Then comparing him to David, they said that when God's purpose with David had ended, he was then laid to rest and saw a corruptible death. But the Son of God did not see corruption! He was resurrected! As they went out of the temple, the people begged for more preaching on the grace of God. On the next Sabbath the whole city wanted to hear the word of God. Many hearts were saved and added to the church.

But the Jews were filled with jealousy and began to contradict what He said, as if they could contradict the Son of God. But jealousy grows into a terrible monster making men act wickedly. They began to revile Paul. Did this bother Paul or Barnabas? Absolutely not! In fact they answered them directly reminding them that the gospel came to them first, but they rejected it to their own eternal destruction. But now the gospel is given to the Gentiles. When the Gentiles heard this, they rejoiced and glorified the word of the Lord, and as many as were appointed to eternal life believed. Notice 'as were appointed'. No one is saved outside of the Father's will regardless of the preaching or the preacher.

The Jews were enraged at this. They incited devout people of influence in the city to join them in stirring up persecution  against Paul and Barnabas  They drove the team out of the district. As for Paul and Barnabas, their work was done so they shook the dust off their shoes and traveled to the next city. And the disciples were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit.

When people are resisting God, they act in horrible ways. But it is so much worse when these things surface in the church. No matter how much worse it becomes for believers, they are filled with joy because of the indwelling Holy Spirit. God's will overrides all the evil of men. Those who are appointed are His! Nothing man can do can change that.

Father,

Stamp out any roots of jealously in my heart. Help me to love others and hear what they have to say, Open my eyes to Your perfect will in all that I do.

In Jesus name,

Amen

After God's Heart

Acts 13:22-23

Then they asked for a king, and God gave them Saul the son of Kish, a man of the tribe of Benjamin, for forty years.And when he had removed him, he raised up David to be their king, of whom he testified and said, 'I have found in David the son of Jesse a man after my heart, who will do all my will.'

As Paul was speaking in Antioch, he began his discourse with a brief history of Israel where he talked about King David. David was a great king not necessarily because of what he did but because of his heart. God had him especially chosen because he loved God. He was a man after my [God's] heart, who will do all my will.' 

God had chosen David while he was still a boy watching his father's flocks. When Samuel came looking for a king among Jesse's sons, Jesse did not even offer Samuel as a candidate. Samuel had to ask specifically if he had another son. Reluctantly David was summoned. Samuel knew he was the one that God wanted. God knew David's heart from his youth up. 

Being a man after God's heart does not mean he was a perfect man. David committed adultery and murder. He made a mess with his children, and yet he was after God's heart. Why? Perhaps it was his quickness to repent or the grief that he felt in his heart. Could it have been the deep yearning for God that he expressed in the psalms? When he was with God, he was all God's. He had singularity and intensity of purpose. When he strayed, he had the same singularity which showed itself in the intensity of the sins he committed. But the God he knew and loved, forgave him because his heart was repentant. He didn't try and rationalize his behavior. He admitted it for what it was. Against You, You only have I sinned and done what is evil in Your sight. 

His heart was a heart of prayer. Every day I call upon You, I spread out my hands to you. He was not hindered by time. I remember you upon my bed, and meditate on you in the watches of the night. My eyes are awake before the watches of the night, that I may meditate on your promise. He and God had a goodly amount of one on one time. During the time in his life when he was pursued by the enemies, he prayed constantly. He was dependent on God day and night. Perhaps it was such pressure as this that nurtured his heart for God. 

Such a heart was David's. What is my heart like? Do I rationalize sin? Do I continue in sin because I feel justified? With what intensity do I seek God? Does my soul long, yes, faint for the courts of the Lord; my heart and my flesh sing for joy to the living God? Am I depending on God moment by moment? Do I value my sleep more than being with God in the night watches? 

Father,

I ask that You grow my heart so that it seeks only You in all that I do. I know You have given my everything that pertains to life and godliness. Help me apply it in my life.

In Jesus name,

Amen

The Name of the Lord

Psalm 20:7-9

Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God. They collapse and fall, but we rise and stand upright. O LORD, save the king! May he answer us when we call.

This is a prayer psalm that the congregation offered for King David's protection. It begins by petitioning God to answer David when he is in trouble and then realizing that the very name of God is a protection in itself. It continues by asking God to send help from Zion and to remember David's offerings and sacrifices. The prayer continues by asking God to grant David's plan and desires. A shout for joy was lifted up for David's salvation and was followed by banners.The love of the king was meshed with their love of God.The psalmist knows that the Lord saves His anointed and will come with His saving right hand. 

What a wonderful prayer! It is just as valid today as it was all those years ago. Protection is a huge issue today. Maybe not in war within America,  but of evil people who do horrendous things. The name of God is so precious to me. It has a power all of its own. Many times I have asked God about my plans and desires because I want my plans to be God's plans and the same goes for my desires. I love the Lord so much that banners wouldn't be out of order. 

Verses 7-9 are so precious to me. With God, there should be no fear of man. My trust is not in what I own, possess, or in my position. It is not in my bank account or in things that that I have accomplished. Everything that I have has been given me by God.  All that the world offers will not go the distance. Just around the corner will be a recession destroying the economy, or the government will be constantly infringing on our personal rights. Even though there is not much good, but the exception are those who know the Lord as I do. There is sweet fellowship around the Lord. We rise and stand upright in the power and strength of God. His answer are always my good.

Father,

Thank You for answering prayer, for being the God that You are, and for working in my life. You constantly answer me and shape and mold my life into what is my good. Build my trust and faith as I live out what You have for me.

In Jesus name, 

Amen

Christian

Acts 11:21

And the hand of the Lord was with them, and a great number who believed turned to the Lord.

Stephen's stoning acted as an agent of change. Feeling no longer safe, the believers scattered to different locations. One might think that this separation would weaken the strength and will of the believers, but it did not! When the hand of the Lord is with you, it doesn't matter what man will do to you. Today there is much persecution of the church in other countries. I wonder if it is spreading the gospel, and if so why? Of course it is God who determines and orchestrates. But does seeing people love Jesus so much that they are willing to endure all manner of persecution make a difference? Does this degree of persecution make the church that much stronger because they are calling out to Him constantly?  Nothing about life is assured to them, only God.  

As the gospel was shared, more Gentiles came to the Lord. The gospel and the Holy Spirit acted irrespective of ethnicity. When the report of this new activity reached Jerusalem, they dispatched Barnabas to Antioch. When he arrived, his heart was joyous at seeing the grace of God at work. He encouraged them to remain faithful to the Lord with steadfast purpose. That simple phrase says it all. The calling of a Christian is for faithfulness and for purpose. It is not just a willy-nilly go about my way kind of thing. It is life and death commitment. No baling aloud! It demands faithfulness to Jesus even in the face of persecution or death.

Since all was as it should be and many souls were being added daily, Barnabas went to Tarsus to find Paul and bring him back to Antioch. For a year they met with the church. Imagine what that was like! What a meeting! No time for hypocrisy here! And in Antioch the disciples were first called Christians. And the name came about and has endured for all these years. The sad thing is that today in America the name Christian is so watered-down. People use it synonymously with being an American or belonging to Protestantism. It is neither of those things. Christian is the name for all those who love Jesus to the point that they would sacrifice all for Him. Christian is the name for all those who love His word and live in obedient surrender to Him. I am one of those people. I am a Christian!

Father,

Infuse in me Your strength and grace so that I might be strong and outspoken for You. Thank You for calling name to be a Christian.

In His name,

Amen

Blessings

Ps. 18

Verse 1-2   The LORD is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, my God, my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. I call upon the LORD, who is worthy to be praised, and I am saved from my enemies.  David knew the truth of these words. He had run from his enemies a very long time, but the running had ceased. The Lord had proved Himself strong. What is good to see is that David constantly called on the name of the Lord. No matter how near or far, the Lord was still his constant companion.

Verse 6  In my distress I called upon the LORD; to my God I cried for help. From his temple he heard my voice, and my cry to him reached his ears. David describes his help from God as the earth rocked, reeled, trembled, quaked, and became dark. God bowed the heavens bringing hailstones, thick clouds, and coals of fire. When the Lord delivers, He comes with all the force of His might. All nature becomes His weapon.

Verses 17-19  He rescued me from my strong enemy and from those who hated me, for they were too mighty for me. They confronted me in the day of my calamity, but the LORD was my support. He brought me out into a broad place; he rescued me, because he delighted in me.  God rescued David because He was David's support, and most of all, because God delighted in him. God delights in the soul that is His, in the soul that constantly depends on Him. Sometimes for that to happen God must send an enemy that is too  strong to handle. Praise God for the battle where we can depend on God!

Verses 24-30  So the LORD has rewarded me according to my righteousness, according to the cleanness of my hands in his sight. With the merciful you show yourself merciful; with the blameless man you show yourself blameless; with the purified you show yourself pure; and with the crooked you make yourself seem tortuous. For you save a humble people, but the haughty eyes you bring down. For it is you who light my lamp; the LORD my God lightens my darkness. For by you I can run against a troop, and by my God I can leap over a wall. This God--his way is perfect; the word of the LORD proves true; he is a shield for all those who take refuge in him. Our obedience is important to God. He particularly despises those who are proud and self-sufficient. He loves those who are righteous, merciful, blameless, pure, and humble. The Lord was light for David, and He is light for me as well. His way is perfect and true because He is perfect and true. His way is the outworking of His character and attributes in the lives of men.

Verses 31-32  For who is God, but the LORD? And who is a rock, except our God?--the God who equipped me with strength and made my way blameless. Rhetorical questions cause the reader to form the obvious and right conclusion. This is a no-brainer! God is God, a God who is a rock and gives those who love Him His strength.

Verses 46-59  the God who equipped me with strength and made my way blameless. The LORD lives, and blessed be my rock, and exalted be the God of my salvation-- the God who gave me vengeance and subdued peoples under me, who delivered me from my enemies; yes, you exalted me above those who rose against me; you rescued me from the man of violence. For this I will praise you, O LORD, among the nations, and sing to your name. Great salvation he brings to his king, and shows steadfast love to his anointed, to David and his offspring forever. David is triumphant over his enemies but he gives all the glory to God who equipped him with the needed strength. For this great deliverance David praises and sings to His God. God and David did have a special relationship. His kingly line would never be without someone on the throne. God had blessed David and his offspring.

This applies to me as well. All the promises He made to David are there for me. Grace, strength, and wisdom are constant weapons in my arsenal. But it doesn't have to be a battle of kingly proportion.He is just as willing to help me in the spiritual battles that are my daily enemies. He still is my rock, my salvation, my steadfast love, and my God who is merciful, and pure. His blessings are there for all who name His name as their own.

Father,
Thank You for the record of Your hand in the life of David. I know that You can be all those things to me as well. Help me to come to You constantly with a heart of praise and thankfulness.
In Jesus name,
Amen

No Partiality

Acts 10:48

And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. Then they asked him to remain for some days.

At the request of the Spirit and 3 men at his door, Peter traveled to Caesarea to see Cornelius. They sat down and began talking about Peter's vision concerning the Gentiles. The essence of which was that no one person should be called unclean. 

Then Cornelius began to tell what had happened to him 4 days ago. As he was praying, a man in bright clothing appeared and assured him that his prayer had been heard and remembered by God. Furthermore, the angel told him to send for Simon called Peter. Cornelius was ready to hear and Peter was ready to teach. He recounted the events of Christ's ministry, crucifixion, and resurrection.  To Him [Christ] all the prophets bear witness that everyone who believes in Him receives forgiveness of sins through His name. While Peter was still talking, the Holy Spirit was poured [not just fell] on those who were listening. Believers from the circumcision who traveled with Peter were amazed by this out pouring. Not only that but they were hearing them speak in tongues and praise God. This incident came upon the heels of Peter's vision, and was a living, breathing illustration of what was shown him in his vision. Peter saw no reason to delay baptism. So Gentile believers were saved, filled with the Holy Spirit, and baptized. So he stayed and taught them many things. 

Just so quickly did God work to spread the gospel. Who would have ever thought that Jews and Gentiles would be unified in their love for Jesus and in the out pouring of His Spirit? It is a lesson that is often hard to learn. Jesus is not exclusive to one set of people. His message of salvation is for all even those we would least expect. God showed no partiality to us. Why should I show it to others?

Father,

Help me to share boldly with all You bring my way. Take away my spirit of partiality, of preconceived notions about people and situations. Make my heart receptive to Your words.

In Jesus name,

Amen

A Psalm for Today

Ps. 16:1-2

Preserve me, O God, for in you I take refuge.

I say to the LORD, "You are my Lord; I have no good apart from you."

In this Ps. David either begins a beloved doctrine or echoes other great verses in Scripture, ones that ring true in the lives of believers today. Saints can rejoice because the emotion of David's heart are the same as ours today. This is one of those psalms that should be memorized. It has so many comforting concepts that could be called up in times of crisis.  How many times have we thought circumstances would weigh us down, even defeat us completely. David felt this way when he asked for preservation. In Ps. 145 David says that the Lord preserves those who love Him. Certainly David had a heart for God.

In v. 2 he says that he knows all good is from the Lord. Rom. 8:28 says And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. This is one of the great promises of God that believers hang on to today.

V. 3 says the saints in the land are excellent and are his delight. Those who know Jesus have instant kinship. We are united at the feet of Jesus with thanksgiving and praise to our God. This same idea captivated the early church. And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved.

Verses 5-6 say The Lord is my chosen portion and my cup; you hold my lot. The lines have fallen for me in pleasant places; Indeed, I have a beautiful inheritance. Col 1:12 says giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in light. David chose the Lord as should we. He needs to be ever before us.

Verses 7-8 say that David blesses the Lord who gives him counsel and instruction day and night. He keeps the Lord before him, in decisions, in problems, and in times of blessings. In another psalm David says he will not fear what man can do to him because the Lord is his portion. Jesus is the true originator of  'no fear'. 

Because of all these reasons David rejoices in the Lord.  His heart is glad not in what the world can offer but in his God. He wholeheartedly rejoices with every part of his being. He is assured of his place in eternity. God does not abandon those whom he calls as His own. He has made know to him the path of life and joy, and David looks forward to an eternity with Him. 

Therefore my heart is glad, and my whole being rejoices; my flesh also dwells secure.

For you will not abandon my soul to Sheol, or let your holy one see corruption.

You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.

What an amazing psalm this is! It is meat for the soul of every saint including me.

Father,

Thank You for this word today. How blessed I am for having a God like You. I bless You for giving me a life with You and for not allowing corruption to threaten me. You are before me and counsel me in all circumstances. Thank You, Lord.

In Jesus name,

Amen

Conversion

Acts 9:15-16

But the Lord said to him, "Go, for he is a chosen instrument of mine to carry my name before the Gentiles and kings and the children of Israel. For I will show him how much he must suffer for the sake of my name."

Saul the persecutor of the Way was taking men or women bound to Jerusalem. Someone powerful [like Saul] who is sold out for his cause is someone to be feared. And Saul was that person. But on the road to Damascus Saul met someone who was more powerful than he was. He was taken down to the ground [a place where he was defenseless] by a flashing light from heaven and a voice speaking to him, "Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?" And he said, "Who are you, Lord?" Even though Saul was unsure about who was speaking to him, he knew it was someone powerful enough to be called Lord. The voice answered, "I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting.  Saul must have been unbelievably shocked. The very one whom he was persecuting had him on the ground. Now the tables were turned. Jesus continued to say, But rise and enter the city, and you will be told what you are to do." Saul's life was no longer his own. When Saul got up from the ground, he was blind to the degree that he had to be led everywhere. For 3 days he did not see, eat, or drink. I imagine his thoughts were turned to Jesus, the one who had impacted his life in such a supernatural way. 

At the same time the Lord spoke to Ananias. He was told to go to a street named straight at the home of Judas and find Saul for he was there praying. I'm sure Ananias' mind was whirling. This man was the great persecutor of the church. He was known as a man of no mercy whatsoever and who had the backing of the chief priests. But the Lord reassured him and gave him specific instructions. "Go, for he is a chosen instrument of mine to carry my name before the Gentiles and kings and the children of Israel. For I will show him how much he must suffer for the sake of my name."  So Ananias obeyed and followed the directions. Laying his hands on Saul he said, "Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus who appeared to you on the road by which you came has sent me so that you may regain your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit." Saul had gained the status of brother! He was now a follower of the Way! Immediately the scales fell from his eyes and he could see. Being a man of action he went and was baptized. He ate and was strengthened and spent days with the disciples at Damascus. Saul did not have to think it over. He did not make a pro and con list. His life was instantly transformed. The direction of his life was now going in an opposite direction. And immediately he proclaimed Jesus in the synagogues, saying, "He is the Son of God." I can imagine the stir that this caused in Damascus and in Jerusalem. 

Even though it doesn't record it in the passage, Ananias must have told Saul what the Lord had said to him about his life. He would be a chosen instrument to carry the name of Jesus to the Gentiles, to kings, and to Israel. Not only that but his life would be one of suffering. All this before he really had begun his ministry. He is the example of the servant of God who follows in his masters footsteps. Just as Jesus was persecuted, maligned, beaten, and crucified, yet would draw many hearts to Himself. So Saul would be persecuted, maligned, beaten, stoned, and executed, yet would lead many hearts to new life in Christ. Even though Paul was shown specifically what he would suffer, I am told in the word that I will suffer for Jesus. My mission and ministry must follow Jesus' life and learn specifics from Paul's life. 

Father,

Salvation is a glorious thing to behold. I thank You for mine. Lord, use me as You want. I am Your servant.

In Jesus name,

Amen

The Spirit's Leading

Acts 8:35

Then Philip opened his mouth, and beginning with this Scripture he told him the good news about Jesus.

An angel of the Lord directed Philip to go south on the road from Jerusalem to Gaza. Philip was quick to obey. How specific was God's leading! He used a heavenly messenger [angel] to give direction to a human messenger [Philip]. There he saw an Ethiopian who had come to Jerusalem to worship and was now returning home. And as the Ethiopian was seated in his chariot, he was reading Isaiah. The Spirit spoke to  Philip telling him to go to the man. And this time Philip ran. He simply asked if he understood what he was reading. The man said he needed someone to teach him. And Philip was there at specifically the right time to teach him the gospel. The Spirit had prepared the man's heart so that he was willing to receive the message. 

Philip was invited into the chariot to teach the man what Isaiah was saying. It just so happened that the man was reading about the suffering of Jesus. Not, it was the leading of the Spirit. Everything was as it should be. Philip taught the man. What a perfect open door for Philip to share the gospel of Jesus! As they continued on the road, they passed by some water. The eunuch asked if he could be baptized there and the answer was yes. Philip and the eunuch were in the water. When the baptism was over, the Spirit carried Philip away to Azotus to preach the word there. The Eunuch left rejoicing. His life had been drastically transformed. 

What an example of the divine leading! An angel started the ball rolling. Then the Spirit spoke specifically even down to the location.  He had the Ethiopian reading the passage that was a perfect lead-in for the gospel. Then he supernaturally moved Philip to a different location. And the gospel was radiating outward from Jerusalem. The church was growing. Souls were added. 

Father,

I know I am not an apostle, but I still need to share the gospel. Give me boldness. Help me to hear the Spirit's leading. Open doors and lead me into the exact place where someone needs Jesus. 

In Jesus name,

Amen

Simon vs. Simon

Acts 8: 22-23

Repent, therefore, of this wickedness of yours, and pray to the Lord that, if possible, the intent of your heart may be forgiven you. For I see that you are in the gall of bitterness and in the bond of iniquity. And Simon answered, Pray for me to the Lord, that nothing of what you have said may come upon me.

After the stoning of Stephen, Saul was incensed persecuting believers and ravaging the church. Men and women were ripped from their homes and thrown in jail. The persecution was so great that it caused the church to flee. Even though this was a bad time, it resulted in the gospel being spread to Judea and Samaria. All things are God's servants even intense persecution. 

Philip had gone to Samaria to share the message of Christ with the people there. The crowds were responsive. In fact, the crowds responded in unison. When they saw Philip cast out demons and heal others, they believed with great joy. One of those who claimed to believe was Simon the magician. He was a man of great reputation in the city. Many had believed in what he said and the magic he had performed. So when he saw others believe and be baptized in Jesus Christ, he jumped on the band wagon. As Simon continued with Philip, he was amazed at the great signs that Philip was doing. 

When the apostles in Jerusalem heard about this great event, they immediately dispatched Peter and John to the area so that they might receive the Holy Spirit. [The Spirit had not fallen on any of them yet] As Peter and John laid hands on the people, they received the Spirit. Simon was blown away. He saw this as a great opportunity and offered the apostles money so that he might be able to lay hands on others and replicate this powerful gift.

Peter [who formerly was Simon] spoke harshly to Simon saying,  "May your silver perish with you, because you thought you could obtain the gift of God with money! You have neither part nor lot in this matter, for your heart is not right before God. No doubt Simon was carried along by the enthusiasm of the crowd and the great signs that he saw. He probably thought he believed. But sadly, he truly did not.  Believing in Jesus is a heart matter. [God does not look on the outward appearances but instead He looks on the heart.] Money has nothing to do with it. Peter spoke sternly saying, Repent, therefore, of this wickedness of yours, and pray to the Lord that, if possible, the intent of your heart may be forgiven you. For I see that you are in the gall of bitterness and in the bond of iniquity. How off-putting was that! There was no way Simon could continue on without a change of heart. Yet Peter had given Simon a way out. If he would repent, confess the bitterness and the sin, and be forgiven, God would forgive. But Simon couldn't. How very sad! The best he could do was to ask Peter to pray for him to forestall the judgment of God. Simon would have to find a new audience to wow with his magic. His heart had made a fatal mistake. 

Sadly there are many people in the church today who are just like Simon. They come because of friends, social standing, or maybe they think it is what they should do. Church is what many good people do. But still their hearts are not changed. 

Father,

I bless You for calling me to Yourself, for forgiving me and making me over anew. You are a great God. Lord, I pray for others this morning who come to church but are unchanged on the inside. Even this Sunday, do a work in their hearts.

In Jesus name,

Amen

Stephen's Stoning

Acts 7:59-60

And as they were stoning Stephen, he called out, "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit."

And falling to his knees he cried out with a loud voice, "Lord, do not hold this sin against them." And when he had said this, he fell asleep.

After being questioned Stephen was given a chance to speak. [ which is the entire chapter] He began by recounting the history of Israel beginning with Abraham and ending with the wilderness walk when God was with them in the tent of witness. Even though the tabernacle was inhabited by God, it was not truly the house of God. Stephen then quoted  Is. 66:1-2, 

Heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool. What kind of house will you build for me, says the Lord, or what is the place of my rest? Did not my hand make all these things?

Thus far Stephen had not ruffled too many feathers. but his next statements did. He proceeded using OT language, in fact actually revealing to them that the very same things that their fathers had done, they were now doing again. 

 "You stiff-necked people, uncircumcised in heart and ears, you always resist the Holy Spirit. As your fathers did, so do you. Which of the prophets did your fathers not persecute? And they killed those who announced beforehand the coming of the Righteous One, whom you have now betrayed and murdered, and you received the law as delivered by angels and did not keep it. 

What an horrible indictment! This did not set well with the people at all. They were enraged, grinding their teeth. But in spite of the response, Stephen, filled with the Spirit, gazed into heaven and saw the glory of God and the resurrected Jesus at His side. It was one thing for Stephen to see this, but quite another for him to say it out loud. But he did, and the response was explosive. Screaming, the people grabbed him and took him out of the city where they stoned him. 

And as they were stoning Stephen, he called out, "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit."

And falling to his knees he cried out with a loud voice, "Lord, do not hold this sin against them." And when he had said this, he fell asleep.

What a scene! I wonder if there were people gathered to watch. Was it the excitement of the day? Or did it strike fear in the hearts of some? One person was there whose name was Saul. They threw Stephen's garments at His feet. And chapter 8;1 says, And Saul approved of the execution. 

Such a scene of violence and anger seems like it is still happening today. Violence is everywhere, but worse than the anger and hatred, is the rejection of God. Here all these years later, people are still stiff-necked, uncircumcised in heart and ear, and resisting the Spirit. Satan has his way with the hearts of so many people. And as horrible as Stephen's stoning was, people are being decapitated, stolen, sold into slavery, murdered, and using terrorist tactics all in the name of religion. The world is so in need of Jesus, but will they listen?

Father,

I ask that Your grace my heart will remain soft to You and obedient to all You say. Help me to share You with those You have put in my life.

In Jesus name,

Amen

God's All-Seeing Eye

Ps. 11:4-5

The LORD is in his holy temple; the LORD's throne is in heaven; his eyes see, his eyelids test the children of man. The LORD tests the righteous, but his soul hates the wicked and the one who loves violence.

David was concerned about his safety. If he ran to the mountains, the wicked would have weapons that could take him down. The wicked were unrelenting in their pursuit. Even though David was unsettled in emotionally, he remembered what was true about his God. God is in His holy temple, and His throne is in the heavens. But for an earthling who is in a crisis, that sounds very far away. David knew that God's eyes see all, not just the wicked but the righteous as well. He tests all the children of man including the righteous. David's confidence was in the Lord, for himself and for the destruction of the wicked. 

God hates the wicked.[pretty strong language]  In light of this fact, David wanted God to rain down coals, fire, sulfur, and a scorching wind on the wicked.[Pretty intense emotions] Thoughts like these are often in the minds of believers. But thinking about the fact of God sees all and tests the righteous is another issue. God's all-seeing eye is a double-edged truth in His hatred of the wicked and in His testing of the righteous. Certainly, David's trials [with the wicked in constant pursuit] were a means of greater growth in faith and trust. On one side is trial and on the flip side is blessing. Whatever it may be, all things are the servants of God. And yes that included the wicked!

What great truths to remember. God sees all not just my actions but the feelings and emotions of my heart. He sees my choices, my words, and my sin. Thankfully He has saved me and called me His own. Without Him, where would I be? Definitely, in the camp of the wicked. David's struggle in this psalm is an encouragement to me. I can take all my feelings to God, and I can always trust Him for the outcome of situations. All things are His servants even the wicked.

Father,

Thank You so much. You have blessed my life in so many ways. Help me to keep the truth of Your word in the forefront of my mind.

In Jesus name,

Amen 

The Face of an Angel

Acts 6:16

And gazing at him, all who sat in the council saw that his face was like the face of an angel.

A problem had surfaced within the Hellenists against the Hebrews. They felt that their widows were being neglected in the daily distribution. The apostles met and decided that they must devote themselves to the ministry of the word and prayer. So they asked for 7 men who were of good repute, full of the Spirit and wisdom to handle this task. Everyone was in full agreement. So they chose Stephen along with six other men. The word continued to increase and all was as it should be.But soon it would not be so. 

A group of men, the Freedmen, were at odds with Stephen. Stephen was full of grace and power and doing great wonders and signs. So what was the problem? It must have been a root of jealousy in the Freedman. Satan can find the smallest thing and then blow it up into a huge thing. They tried to discount him, but they were no match for Stephen's wisdom and the Spirit within him. So they secretly instigated men to speak falsely against him. They stirred up the people, the elders and scribes and forcefully brought him before the council.[I can imagine Satan rejoicing at this. How he loves to stop the Spirit's work!]  Their basic charge was blasphemy against Moses and against God. They said he constantly spoke against the temple and wanted to change the customs of Moses. After listening, they turned and looked at Stephen, they saw a face like that of an angel. Stephen was not flustered by the false charges. He had no reason to defend Himself because he had done no wrong. He had entrusted his soul to the One who judges justly. 

How deceitful is the heart of man! Even with the magnificent things that the Spirit was accomplishing in the church, even with souls being added to the church daily, and even with the apostles appointing men to handle the physical needs of the church, the Freedmen were not satisfied. Satan had claimed a foothold of jealousy in their lives, and they were used to defeat the work of the church. Visibly manifested works of the Spirit or just participating in the ministry in an outward way can reek havoc within the heart. Once pride has grown in the heart, it can only go from bad to worse, from simple to complex. And that is what happened here and what is still happening all these years later. In Philippians Paul said, So if there is any encouragement in Christ, and comfort from love, any participation in the Spirit, any affection and sympathy, complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind. Satan uses anything to destroy the unity of the church, and sadly the seeds of disunity dwell in the heart of man.

Father,

Give me a heart of unity, of rejoicing when others are noticed or praised, and of loving Jesus above all. Help me to put my attitudes, thoughts, and even needs before others. Give me a heart for Your body.

In Jesus name,

Amen

Counted Worthy to Suffer

Acts 5:40-42

...and when they had called in the apostles, they beat them and charged them not to speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go. Then they left the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer dishonor for the name. And every day, in the temple and from house to house, they did not cease teaching and preaching that the Christ is Jesus.

After being questioned by the high priest and the council, the apostles were resolutely declaring, We must obey God rather than men. As their declaration continued, the apostles flat-out accused the council of hanging Jesus on a tree. They went on to say that God had raised Jesus from the dead and exalted Him as Leader and Savior. In unison, they all declared that they were witnesses of the events that they were now describing. Of course, the council was enraged. They wanted to kill these men.Then Gamaliel spoke. He reminded them of all the messiahs they had endured in the past. They came and then they always went. His advice was wait.  If it be of God, it will be. If not it will soon pass. The council took his advice, and after beating the apostles, charged them not to speak in the name of Jesus.

Were the apostles tempted to stop speaking of Jesus? No, instead they were rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer for His name. What an attitude! God had turned a negative experience into a divine positive. It seemed to be the fuel that further ignited their hearts and spirits. They were every day speaking of Jesus in the temple and house to house. They did not cease! What an example for believers today! What would my response be if the heavy came down on me? Would I be rejoicing? Would the name of Jesus be the words of my daily conversation?

Father,
Prepare my heart so that I can be strong for You, so that I will always speak the name of Jesus. Fill me with Your grace and Spirit. Use me to share the name of Jesus.
In His name,
Amen

Shaken and Filled

Acts 5:31

And when they had prayed, the place in which they were gathered together was shaken, and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and continued to speak the word of God with boldness.

Peter and John were released after being instructed to refrain from speaking about Jesus. When they gathered with their friends, they told all that was said to them. Did this result in fear? No, they did not pray for protection, but instead prayed for more boldness to share the gospel, for power to heal and perform signs and wonders. And when they had prayed, the place in which they were gathered together was shaken, and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and continued to speak the word of God with boldness. How amazing was this prayer meeting! When I think of the few times that my church has gathered together to pray as one body, I cannot think of anything remotely like this. Even in Bible study where we have a much more intimate and unified spirit, it is missing. In fact when we finish praying, it is often like we were never in the presence of God. We immediately get up and go on with business as usual. I am deeply convicted about this. Since I am the leader of our study, I must lead the way. Help me, Lord. 

The early church had all things in common, one heart and one soul. When items or money was brought to be shared by all, there was no ownership of what was given. No one wanted to take credit personally for what God was doing in their midst. No pews with engraved name plates giving credit to the ones who had the deepest pockets. The seeds of competition and pride had not yet weaseled their way into the church. And with great power the apostles were giving testimony to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and great grace was upon them. Great Grace! That is the key to this powerful manifestation of the Spirit. No one was needy or going without. All was laid at the apostles feet and used for the care and nurturing of the body. Barnabas, the son of encouragement, was given as an example of this unselfish giving. [By way of introduction since he is connected to later events] I wonder if mentioning someone in particular might have begun the fleshly trail of humans, the trail of needing to be better than someone else, the trail of self over the body of believers.  Had it provided the start of disunity in the body? 

Father,

 I know that I have struggled wanting recognition. I confess, forgive me. My flesh is so weak and so easily led astray. Lord, help me lead our study into corporate prayer that is life changing, prayer where we together enter into the presence of God.

In Jesus name,

Amen

Baptism

Mt. 3:16-17

And when Jesus was baptized, immediately he went up from the water, and behold, the heavens were opened to him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and coming to rest on him; and behold, a voice from heaven said, "This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased."

It was as if John wasn't creating enough buzz with how he looked. He wore a camel's hair garment with a leather belt around his waist eating only locusts and wild honey. He was a unique man with a very special and short-lived mission. He was the voice in the wilderness, the man who fulfilled prophecy. If man had planned Jesus' ministry, I am sure it would not have included John. There would have probably been a summit between opposing sides and no end of provisions for all parties involved. Everyone would speak softly with no in-your-face exchanges. But it was not so with God. 

Earlier in this same chapter is the interchange between John and the Pharisees and Sadducees, the established religious faction. He began with tactful words, Not! Instead he said to them, "You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Bear fruit in keeping with repentance. And do not presume to say to yourselves, 'We have Abraham as our father,' for I tell you, God is able from these stones to raise up children for Abraham. Even now the axe is laid to the root of the trees. Every tree therefore that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. Yikes! No summit here. But John's words actually predated Christ's own words when he called them hypocrites, serpents, brood of vipers, blind guides and fools, greedy, self-indulgent, and white-washed tombs full of dead people's bones and all uncleanness. 

John clearly stated that he was less than the One to follow, that he was not even worthy enough to carry His sandals. He [Jesus Christ] would baptize with the Holy Spirit and fire. He would come with winnowing fork in hand to clear the threshing floor and get rid of the chaff. Then Jesus did come to John fulfilling righteousness as well as fulfill OT prophecies. When John baptized Jesus, the heavens were opened to him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and coming to rest on him; and behold, a voice from heaven said, "This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased." How did John feel after this? Were there people watching this event? How monumental! Without a doubt Jesus' as the Son of God was established! 

Yet people did doubt. Much the same way that people doubt the word of God today. The word is the Logos, the living testament of Jesus Christ, but many dismiss it as make believe stories and just plain foolishness. No matter the revelation the heart of man is desperately evil. What man perceives is tied to who man is! Saved or unsaved!

Father,

Thank You for changing my identity from the inside out.  I am Your child. I believe and accept Jesus as my Savior and Lord. Open my eyes to see the lost around me. Give me boldness to share.

In Jesus name,

Amen

The Early Church

Acts 2:42

And they devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. And awe came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles. And all who believed were together and had all things in common. And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need. And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved. 

As I read these verses, I wonder how would the church of my day compare to the early church.   

• First, they were devoted to the apostles' teaching and fellowship. Perhaps devotion might be the most telling factor of 2015. Are church goers devoted to anything having to do with the church? No, it is more like an obligation that needs to be fulfilled once a week. Looking back to my childhood and early adult years, we had Sunday School, church, 2 services on Sunday night and Wednesday night. Even if our motives were totally wrong, it gave us a lot of exposure to the things of God. Then when I look at women's studies today, how many want to study the word of God as opposed to a Christian book. But even if some want a Bible study, do they want it to take them deeply in the Word or a study that can be done quickly so as not to interfere with all the things they have to do.
•  to the breaking of bread and the prayers-Communion now is a scheduled things. I wonder how often the early church did this. Many people today see the value of prayer but do not want to devote much time to it. Once again it comes down to devotion.
•  many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles-This would generate much awe and excitement! The visible outworking of an inward change! The Church today doesn't see many legitimate healing or miracles. Does the church even have awe or reverence toward God Himself let alone for what He is doing in  the lives of others. 
• And all who believed were together and had all things in common. And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need. All those who believed. That makes me think of James 1:6. Let him ask in faith with no doubting. For the one who doubts...will receive nothing from the Lord. He is a double-minded man...There was a deep-seated concern for one another to the point that possessions meant nothing. Now there is a decided difference. Christians today care very much about where they live, what their home looks like, furniture, and possessions. We even have the prosperity gospel that says that you are not truly blessed of God unless you are loaded with earthly possessions.
• And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, praising God and having favor with all the people.Daily in the temple. Daily breaking bread in their homes. They were thankful, glad, and generous.Time was spent in praising God and being right with all people. How far we have come the other way! The daily times of worship and communion are no more. We do praise God from grateful hearts, but how often? Hopefully, we are concerned about are relationship with God and other believers. But I am sure not to the degree that was experienced in the early church.
•  And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved. The Lord added. It wasn't gimmicks or promotions. It was the Lord working mightily in their lives and hearts. Granted, this was the early church, and they had to take the church from nothing to spreading the gospel in their world. Our condition seems so much easier that it has lulled us into a 'have enough' kind of experience. We do enough to assuage our consciences or maybe just to keep up appearances in the eyes of others, but where is our heart? What do we desire? What is foremost in our minds?  

This was a heads-up for me, for me to look at my heart, my devotion, my prayer life, and my service. Am I doing all that God wants me to do? Am I listening intently? Am I following the Spirit's leading?

Father,

My heart is Yours. You have saved me and plotted out my life. I want no deviation. Spirit, speak and lead clearly. Fill me with boldness to share the gospel and what You have done in my life.

In Jesus name,

Amen

The Beginning

Acts 2:1-4

When the day of Pentecost arrived, they were all together in one place. And suddenly there came from heaven a sound like a mighty rushing wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting. And divided tongues as of fire appeared to them and rested on each one of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance.

The church was beginning! The wait was over! The Spirit would make His appearance not in a secret way but in a very noticeable way. It was Pentecost, the 2nd annual harvest festival, 50 days after the Passover. Many people were in Jerusalem from many different places all speaking their own languages. As the disciples were assembled in one place, there came a sound like a sudden rushing wind that filled the entire house. It was the heavenly entrance of the Spirit! Something like divided tongues of fire sat on the shoulders of all assembled. They were all filled with the Spirit and had the ability to converse with many in their own languages.

What was the response? Bewilderment and amazement, some even thought those speaking were drunk! It shows how strong the Satan can deceive. What person can get so drunk that he speaks in another language? None! I imagine Satan was fit to be tied. His plan was foiled again. 

They also spoke not only to Jews but to.proselytes, Cretans, and Arabians. The message was for all. The gospel would reach many ears on that day. Those there would take it to their home country. And so Christianity began! How glorious! 

Father,

Help me to be bold to share the gospel regardless of the response. Give me Your words.

In Jesus name,

Amen

Womanly Weaknesses

Gen. 3:6

So when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was a delight to the eyes, and that the tree was to be desired to make one wise, she took of its fruit and ate, and she also gave some to her husband who was with her, and he ate.

Certainly Satan was a powerful deceiver, more crafty than all the beasts,  yet Eve caved pretty quickly. His first ploy was to question what she already knew. Even though God had spoken to her and Adam very clearly about this tree, she entertained the temptation. Why wasn't her first response 'no'? Satan restated what God said explaining it in a more palatable ways. 

And the LORD God commanded the man, saying, "You may surely eat of every tree of the garden, but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat of it you shall surely die." But Satan countered with,  "You will not surely die. For God knows that when you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil."  

Little did she know that once she knew both good and evil, she was already dying. However, she didn't stop there. She added her own thoughts to the mix. The tree was good for food [the always practical woman]. It was a delight to her eyes [the loving-beautiful-things woman]. And it would make one wise [the ever-improving woman]. All good things in and of themselves, but not when they violate God's command. After all this thinking, she took the fruit and ate. Not once did she think to ask her husband or ask God if her thinking was correct. She gave it to her husband and he ate it. So much for the family leader! Their eyes were opened. They saw and understood nakedness. Innocence had been lost once and for all. They fashioned clothing out of fig leaves. [the beginnings of the fashion industry] It seems like 1 Jn.:2:16 would be fitting for her thoughts. For all that is in the world--the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride of life--is not from the Father but is from the world.

When God came to walk with them in the cool of the evening, they hid. So sad! They threw away walking in the presence of God for a single piece of forbidden fruit. God called, Adam answered. The sin was revealed. Eve confessed the serpent deceived her and she ate. That was 100% true, but Adam blamed his wife. Showed a lack of spine on his part [first the eating and now the confessing]. 

As expected, there was horrible consequences, consequences that have affected mankind for all generations. For Eve, pain in childbirth and dominance [she would always want to be in charge of men]. For Adam, the ground was cursed. He would have to work it by the sweat of his brow until he died and was one with the dust. The serpent was cursed and would have to crawl on his belly. There would be enmity between him and the woman and between his offspring and her offspring. He will bruise Satan's head, and Satan will bruise His heel. 

Father,

Keep my eyes open to the ploys of Satan. Help me to cling to Your words and not try to re-invent them.

Amen

Ascension

Acts 1:8

But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.

Jesus validated all that He had said when he presented Himself alive to His apostles [and many other proofs]. During those days and before His ascension, He commanded them to stay in Jerusalem to wait for the promise of the Father, that is the baptism of the Holy Spirit. Without the gift of the Spirit, Christianity would have never spread. Jesus would have become a distant memory.

Of course, they asked Jesus when Israel would be restored. I imagine they had been waiting to ask that for quite awhile. The answer was 'not for you to know' what the Father has fixed by His sovereign authority. Fixed, unchanged by man and revealed only when the time is right. God's plan cannot be overturned  or altered in any way. That fact should lift a huge load off the shoulders of mankind, but no so. Man still lives to fret, worry, and think that he can shape the course of events apart from God. How foolish!

After the Spirit has come on them, they were to be witnesses in a plan that radiated outward from Jerusalem to the entire world. Missionary work was instituted by Jesus Himself. Sharing the gospel should be first and foremost in the minds of all believers.  After hearing all Jesus had to say, He ascended into heaven right before their very eyes. What a sight! What a mission! Jesus had not left them shiftless and without purpose, nor does He leave us that way. Our purpose is about Jesus Himself. We are to share His gospel with others, and at the same time reflect Jesus in our own personal life. Our actions and words must be in sync with Jesus Christ. 

After Jesus had gone from sight, the angels said, "Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into heaven? This Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way as you saw him go into heaven."  This is the blessed hope! He will come back to take us to be with Him eternally. But it seems like quite often we get stuck 'staring at the sky' [like the apostles]. Our staring does not bring Jesus back, it just wastes time leaving us inactive and ineffective. This 'staring at the sky' could be anything that interrupts our momentum in leaving for Jesus. We need to be on guard for things that stop our growth. Jesus, growing up into Him,is our life!

Father,

Reveal to me when I am 'staring at the sky'. Help my eyes to be fixed on You alone . Thank You for being a sovereign God who has all of life and time ordered.

In Jesus name,

Amen