God’s peace, which is so great we cannot understand it, will keep your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:7
The Lord came to Gideon and told him he was to lead his people in victory over the Midianites. That’s like God telling a housewife to stand up to her abusive husband or a high school student to take on drug peddlers or a preacher to preach the truth to a congregation of Pharisees.
“Y-y-you-b-b-better get somebody else,” we stammer. But then God reminds us that he knows we can’t, but he can, and to prove it he gives a wonderful gift. He brings a spirit of peace. A peace before the storm. A peace beyond logic.… He gave it to David after he showed him Goliath; he gave it to Saul after he showed him the gospel; he gave it to Jesus after he showed him the cross. And he gave it to Gideon. So Gideon, in turn, gave the name to God. He built an altar and named it Jehovah-shalom, the Lord is peace (Judges 6:24).
The Great House of God
[1]
Today's Scripture in Context
[1]Lucado, Max; Gibbs, Terri A.: Grace for the Moment: Inspirational Thoughts for Each Day of the Year. Nashville, Tenn. : J. Countryman, 2000, S. 46
Wednesday, January 31, 2007
Tuesday, January 30, 2007
GOD HEALS OUR HURTS
He had compassion on them.
Matthew 14:14 niv
The Greek word for compassion is splanchnizomai, which won’t mean much to you unless you are in the health professions and studied “splanchnology” in school. If so, you remember that “splanchnology” is a study of … the gut.
When Matthew writes that Jesus had compassion on the people, he is not saying that Jesus felt casual pity for them. No, the term is far more graphic. Matthew is saying that Jesus felt their hurt in his gut:
- He felt the limp of the crippled.
- He felt the hurt of the diseased.
- He felt the loneliness of the leper.
- He felt the embarrassment of the sinful.
And once he felt their hurts, he couldn’t help but heal their hurts.
In the Eye of the Storm
[1]
[1]Lucado, Max; Gibbs, Terri A.: Grace for the Moment: Inspirational Thoughts for Each Day of the Year. Nashville, Tenn. : J. Countryman, 2000, S. 45
Friday, January 26, 2007
GUARD YOUR ATTITUDE
May our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father encourage you and strengthen you in every good thing you do and say.
2 Thessalonians 2:16
“Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me alone to do all the work?” (Luke 10:40)…
Martha’s life was cluttered. She needed a break. “Martha, Martha, you are worried and upset about many things,” the Master explained to her. “Only one thing is important. Mary has chosen [it]” (Luke 10:41–42).
What had Mary chosen? She had chosen to sit at the feet of Christ. God is more pleased with the quiet attention of a sincere servant than the noisy service of a sour one.…
What matters more than the type of service is the heart behind the service. A bad attitude spoils the gift we leave on the altar for God.
He Still Moves Stones
[1]
Today's Scripture in Context
[1]Lucado, Max; Gibbs, Terri A.: Grace for the Moment: Inspirational Thoughts for Each Day of the Year. Nashville, Tenn. : J. Countryman, 2000, S. 41
2 Thessalonians 2:16
“Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me alone to do all the work?” (Luke 10:40)…
Martha’s life was cluttered. She needed a break. “Martha, Martha, you are worried and upset about many things,” the Master explained to her. “Only one thing is important. Mary has chosen [it]” (Luke 10:41–42).
What had Mary chosen? She had chosen to sit at the feet of Christ. God is more pleased with the quiet attention of a sincere servant than the noisy service of a sour one.…
What matters more than the type of service is the heart behind the service. A bad attitude spoils the gift we leave on the altar for God.
He Still Moves Stones
[1]
Today's Scripture in Context
[1]Lucado, Max; Gibbs, Terri A.: Grace for the Moment: Inspirational Thoughts for Each Day of the Year. Nashville, Tenn. : J. Countryman, 2000, S. 41
Thursday, January 25, 2007
ADOPTED BY GOD
The Spirit himself bears witness with our Spirit that we are children of God.
Romans 8:16 nasb
When we come to Christ, God not only forgives us, he also adopts us. Through a dramatic series of events, we go from condemned orphans with no hope to adopted children with no fear. Here is how it happens. You come before the judgment seat of God full of rebellion and mistakes. Because of his justice he cannot dismiss your sin, but because of his love he cannot dismiss you. So, in an act which stunned the heavens, he punished himself on the cross for your sins. God’s justice and love are equally honored. And you, God’s creation, are forgiven. But the story doesn’t end with God’s forgiveness.…
It would be enough if God just cleansed your name, but he does more. He gives you his name.
The Great House of God
[1]
Today's Scripture in Context
[1]Lucado, Max; Gibbs, Terri A.: Grace for the Moment: Inspirational Thoughts for Each Day of the Year. Nashville, Tenn. : J. Countryman, 2000, S. 40
Romans 8:16 nasb
When we come to Christ, God not only forgives us, he also adopts us. Through a dramatic series of events, we go from condemned orphans with no hope to adopted children with no fear. Here is how it happens. You come before the judgment seat of God full of rebellion and mistakes. Because of his justice he cannot dismiss your sin, but because of his love he cannot dismiss you. So, in an act which stunned the heavens, he punished himself on the cross for your sins. God’s justice and love are equally honored. And you, God’s creation, are forgiven. But the story doesn’t end with God’s forgiveness.…
It would be enough if God just cleansed your name, but he does more. He gives you his name.
The Great House of God
[1]
Today's Scripture in Context
[1]Lucado, Max; Gibbs, Terri A.: Grace for the Moment: Inspirational Thoughts for Each Day of the Year. Nashville, Tenn. : J. Countryman, 2000, S. 40
Wednesday, January 24, 2007
THE COMPASSIONATE CHRIST
When he arrived, he saw a great crowd waiting. He felt sorry for them. So he began to teach them many things.
Mark 6:34
When Jesus lands on the shore of Bethsaida, he leaves the Sea of Galilee and steps into a sea of humanity. Keep in mind, he has crossed the sea to get away from the crowds. He needs to grieve. He longs to relax with his followers. He needs anything but another crowd of thousands to teach and heal.
But his love for people overcomes his need for rest.…
Many of those he healed would never say “thank you,” but he healed them anyway. Most would be more concerned with being healthy than being holy, but he healed them anyway. Some of those who asked for bread today would cry for his blood a few months later, but he healed them anyway.… He had compassion on them.
In the Eye of the Storm
[1]
Today's Scripture in Context
[1]Lucado, Max; Gibbs, Terri A.: Grace for the Moment: Inspirational Thoughts for Each Day of the Year. Nashville, Tenn. : J. Countryman, 2000, S. 38
Mark 6:34
When Jesus lands on the shore of Bethsaida, he leaves the Sea of Galilee and steps into a sea of humanity. Keep in mind, he has crossed the sea to get away from the crowds. He needs to grieve. He longs to relax with his followers. He needs anything but another crowd of thousands to teach and heal.
But his love for people overcomes his need for rest.…
Many of those he healed would never say “thank you,” but he healed them anyway. Most would be more concerned with being healthy than being holy, but he healed them anyway. Some of those who asked for bread today would cry for his blood a few months later, but he healed them anyway.… He had compassion on them.
In the Eye of the Storm
[1]
Today's Scripture in Context
[1]Lucado, Max; Gibbs, Terri A.: Grace for the Moment: Inspirational Thoughts for Each Day of the Year. Nashville, Tenn. : J. Countryman, 2000, S. 38
Tuesday, January 23, 2007
BLESSINGS AT GOD'S TABLE
You prepare a meal for me in front of my enemies.
Psalm 23:5
Pause and envision the scene in [God’s] royal dining room.…
Driven not by our beauty but by his promise, he calls us to himself and invites us to take a permanent place at his table.… We take our place next to the other sinners-made-saints and we share in God’s glory.
May I share a partial list of what awaits you at his table?
You are beyond condemnation (Rom. 8:1).
You are a member of his kingdom (Col. 1:13).
You have been adopted (Rom. 8:15).
You have access to God at any moment (Eph. 2:18).
You will never be abandoned (Heb. 13:5).
You have an imperishable inheritance (1 Pet. 1:4).
In the Grip of Grace
[1]
[1]Lucado, Max; Gibbs, Terri A.: Grace for the Moment: Inspirational Thoughts for Each Day of the Year. Nashville, Tenn. : J. Countryman, 2000, S. 38
Psalm 23:5
Pause and envision the scene in [God’s] royal dining room.…
Driven not by our beauty but by his promise, he calls us to himself and invites us to take a permanent place at his table.… We take our place next to the other sinners-made-saints and we share in God’s glory.
May I share a partial list of what awaits you at his table?
You are beyond condemnation (Rom. 8:1).
You are a member of his kingdom (Col. 1:13).
You have been adopted (Rom. 8:15).
You have access to God at any moment (Eph. 2:18).
You will never be abandoned (Heb. 13:5).
You have an imperishable inheritance (1 Pet. 1:4).
In the Grip of Grace
[1]
[1]Lucado, Max; Gibbs, Terri A.: Grace for the Moment: Inspirational Thoughts for Each Day of the Year. Nashville, Tenn. : J. Countryman, 2000, S. 38
Monday, January 22, 2007
THE REACHABLE JESUS
He remembered us when we were in trouble. His love continues forever.
Psalm 136:23
God chose to reveal himself through a human body.
The tongue that called forth the dead was a human one. The hand that touched the leper had dirt under its nails. The feet upon which the woman wept were callused and dusty. And his tears … oh, don’t miss the tears … they came from a heart as broken as yours or mine ever has been.
So, people came to him. My, how they came to him! They came at night; they touched him as he walked down the street; they followed him around the sea; they invited him into their homes and placed their children at his feet. Why? Because he refused to be a statue in a cathedral or a priest in an elevated pulpit. He chose instead to be a touchable, approachable, reachable Jesus.
God Came Near
[1]
Today's Scripture in Context
[1]Lucado, Max ; Gibbs, Terri A.: Grace for the Moment : Inspirational Thoughts for Each Day of the Year. Nashville, Tenn. : J. Countryman, 2000, S. 37
Psalm 136:23
God chose to reveal himself through a human body.
The tongue that called forth the dead was a human one. The hand that touched the leper had dirt under its nails. The feet upon which the woman wept were callused and dusty. And his tears … oh, don’t miss the tears … they came from a heart as broken as yours or mine ever has been.
So, people came to him. My, how they came to him! They came at night; they touched him as he walked down the street; they followed him around the sea; they invited him into their homes and placed their children at his feet. Why? Because he refused to be a statue in a cathedral or a priest in an elevated pulpit. He chose instead to be a touchable, approachable, reachable Jesus.
God Came Near
[1]
Today's Scripture in Context
[1]Lucado, Max ; Gibbs, Terri A.: Grace for the Moment : Inspirational Thoughts for Each Day of the Year. Nashville, Tenn. : J. Countryman, 2000, S. 37
Friday, January 19, 2007
ONE SECURE PLACE
I will be with you always.
Matthew 28:20
David, the man after God’s own heart, said: “I’m asking Yahweh for one thing, only one thing: to live with him in his house my whole life long” … (Ps 27:4 msg).
What is this house of God which David seeks? Is David describing a physical structure? Does he long for a building with four walls and a door through which he can enter but never exit? No. “Our Lord does not live in temples built by human hands” (Acts 17:24). When David says, “I will live in the house of the Lord forever” (Ps. 23:6), he’s not saying he wants to get away from people. He’s saying that he yearns to be in God’s presence, wherever he is.
The Great House of God
[1] Today's Scripture in Context
[1]Lucado, Max; Gibbs, Terri A.: Grace for the Moment: Inspirational Thoughts for Each Day of the Year. Nashville, Tenn. : J. Countryman, 2000, S. 34
Matthew 28:20
David, the man after God’s own heart, said: “I’m asking Yahweh for one thing, only one thing: to live with him in his house my whole life long” … (Ps 27:4 msg).
What is this house of God which David seeks? Is David describing a physical structure? Does he long for a building with four walls and a door through which he can enter but never exit? No. “Our Lord does not live in temples built by human hands” (Acts 17:24). When David says, “I will live in the house of the Lord forever” (Ps. 23:6), he’s not saying he wants to get away from people. He’s saying that he yearns to be in God’s presence, wherever he is.
The Great House of God
[1] Today's Scripture in Context
[1]Lucado, Max; Gibbs, Terri A.: Grace for the Moment: Inspirational Thoughts for Each Day of the Year. Nashville, Tenn. : J. Countryman, 2000, S. 34
Thursday, January 18, 2007
SOWING SEEDS OF PEACE
Plant goodness, harvest the fruit of loyalty, plow the new ground of knowledge.
Hosea 10:12
Want to see a miracle? Plant a word of love heartdeep in a person’s life. Nurture it with a smile and a prayer, and watch what happens.
An employee gets a compliment. A wife receives a bouquet of flowers. A cake is baked and carried next door. A widow is hugged. A gas-station attendant is honored. A preacher is praised.
Sowing seeds of peace is like sowing beans. You don’t know why it works; you just know it does. Seeds are planted, and topsoils of hurt are shoved away.
Don’t forget the principle. Never underestimate the power of a seed.
The Applause of Heaven
[1]
Today's Scripture in Context
[1]Lucado, Max; Gibbs, Terri A.: Grace for the Moment: Inspirational Thoughts for Each Day of the Year. Nashville, Tenn. : J. Countryman, 2000, S. 33
Hosea 10:12
Want to see a miracle? Plant a word of love heartdeep in a person’s life. Nurture it with a smile and a prayer, and watch what happens.
An employee gets a compliment. A wife receives a bouquet of flowers. A cake is baked and carried next door. A widow is hugged. A gas-station attendant is honored. A preacher is praised.
Sowing seeds of peace is like sowing beans. You don’t know why it works; you just know it does. Seeds are planted, and topsoils of hurt are shoved away.
Don’t forget the principle. Never underestimate the power of a seed.
The Applause of Heaven
[1]
Today's Scripture in Context
[1]Lucado, Max; Gibbs, Terri A.: Grace for the Moment: Inspirational Thoughts for Each Day of the Year. Nashville, Tenn. : J. Countryman, 2000, S. 33
Wednesday, January 17, 2007
CLOTHES OF SALVATION
This body that dies must clothe itself with something that can never die.
1 Corinthians 15:53
Does Jesus care what clothes we wear?
Apparently so. In fact, the Bible tells us exactly the wardrobe God desires.
“But clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ and forget about satisfying your sinful self” (Rom. 13:14).
“You were all baptized into Christ, and so you were all clothed with Christ. This means that you are all children of God through faith in Christ Jesus” (Gal. 3:26–27).
This clothing has nothing to do with dresses and jeans and suits. God’s concern is with our spiritual garment. He offers a heavenly robe that only heaven can see and only heaven can give. Listen to the words of Isaiah: “The Lord makes me very happy; all that I am rejoices in my God. He has covered me with clothes of salvation and wrapped me with a coat of goodness” (Isaiah 61:10).
When Christ Comes
[1]
Today Scripture in Context
[1]Lucado, Max; Gibbs, Terri A.: Grace for the Moment: Inspirational Thoughts for Each Day of the Year. Nashville, Tenn. : J. Countryman, 2000, S. 32
1 Corinthians 15:53
Does Jesus care what clothes we wear?
Apparently so. In fact, the Bible tells us exactly the wardrobe God desires.
“But clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ and forget about satisfying your sinful self” (Rom. 13:14).
“You were all baptized into Christ, and so you were all clothed with Christ. This means that you are all children of God through faith in Christ Jesus” (Gal. 3:26–27).
This clothing has nothing to do with dresses and jeans and suits. God’s concern is with our spiritual garment. He offers a heavenly robe that only heaven can see and only heaven can give. Listen to the words of Isaiah: “The Lord makes me very happy; all that I am rejoices in my God. He has covered me with clothes of salvation and wrapped me with a coat of goodness” (Isaiah 61:10).
When Christ Comes
[1]
Today Scripture in Context
[1]Lucado, Max; Gibbs, Terri A.: Grace for the Moment: Inspirational Thoughts for Each Day of the Year. Nashville, Tenn. : J. Countryman, 2000, S. 32
Tuesday, January 16, 2007
GOD’S GOOD TIMING
God will always give what is right to his people who cry to him night and day, and he will not be slow to answer them.
Luke 18:7
Why does God wait until the money is gone? Why does he wait until the sickness has lingered? Why does he choose to wait until the other side of the grave to answer the prayers for healing?
I don’t know. I only know his timing is always right. I can only say he will do what is best.…
Though you hear nothing, he is speaking. Though you see nothing, he is acting. With God there are no accidents. Every incident is intended to bring us closer to him.
A Gentle Thunder
[1]
Today's Scripture in Context
[1]Lucado, Max ; Gibbs, Terri A.: Grace for the Moment : Inspirational Thoughts for Each Day of the Year. Nashville, Tenn. : J. Countryman, 2000, S. 31
Luke 18:7
Why does God wait until the money is gone? Why does he wait until the sickness has lingered? Why does he choose to wait until the other side of the grave to answer the prayers for healing?
I don’t know. I only know his timing is always right. I can only say he will do what is best.…
Though you hear nothing, he is speaking. Though you see nothing, he is acting. With God there are no accidents. Every incident is intended to bring us closer to him.
A Gentle Thunder
[1]
Today's Scripture in Context
[1]Lucado, Max ; Gibbs, Terri A.: Grace for the Moment : Inspirational Thoughts for Each Day of the Year. Nashville, Tenn. : J. Countryman, 2000, S. 31
Monday, January 15, 2007
GOD’S GOOD GIFTS
Every good action and every perfect gift is from God.
James 1:17
Ever feel like you have nothing? Just look at the gifts [God] has given you:
He has sent his angels to care for you, his Holy Spirit to dwell in you, his church to encourage you, and his word to guide you.…
Anytime you speak, he listens; make a request and he responds.
He will never let you be tempted too much or stumble too far.
Let a tear appear on your cheek, and he is there to wipe it.
Let a love sonnet appear on your lips, and he is there to hear it.
As much as you want to see him, he wants to see you more.…
You have been chosen by Christ.… He has claimed you as his beloved.
When Christ Comes
[1]
Note: As we pause today to honor the life of Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr., we can be thankful to God for the good gift he gave us in this godly man. His actions for equality, unity and social justice were rooted in the lessons he learned from the Holy Scriptures. His ‘Dream’ was based on God’s commands.
[1]Lucado, Max; Gibbs, Terri A.: Grace for the Moment: Inspirational Thoughts for Each Day of the Year. Nashville, Tenn. : J. Countryman, 2000, S. 30
James 1:17
Ever feel like you have nothing? Just look at the gifts [God] has given you:
He has sent his angels to care for you, his Holy Spirit to dwell in you, his church to encourage you, and his word to guide you.…
Anytime you speak, he listens; make a request and he responds.
He will never let you be tempted too much or stumble too far.
Let a tear appear on your cheek, and he is there to wipe it.
Let a love sonnet appear on your lips, and he is there to hear it.
As much as you want to see him, he wants to see you more.…
You have been chosen by Christ.… He has claimed you as his beloved.
When Christ Comes
[1]
Note: As we pause today to honor the life of Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr., we can be thankful to God for the good gift he gave us in this godly man. His actions for equality, unity and social justice were rooted in the lessons he learned from the Holy Scriptures. His ‘Dream’ was based on God’s commands.
[1]Lucado, Max; Gibbs, Terri A.: Grace for the Moment: Inspirational Thoughts for Each Day of the Year. Nashville, Tenn. : J. Countryman, 2000, S. 30
Friday, January 12, 2007
WHO IS THE SERVANT?
Martha was distracted with much serving…But Mary has chosen that good part, which will not be taken away from her.
Luke 10:40–42 nkjv
Martha is worried about something good. She’s having Jesus over for dinner. She’s literally serving God. Her aim was to please Jesus. But she made a common, yet dangerous mistake. As she began to work for him, her work became more important than her Lord. What began as a way to serve Jesus, slowly and subtly became a way to serve self.… She has forgotten that the meal is to honor Jesus, not Martha.…
It’s easy to forget who is the servant and who is to be served.
He Still Moves Stones
[1]
TODAY'S SCRIPTURE IN CONTEXT
[1]Lucado, Max; Gibbs, Terri A.: Grace for the Moment: Inspirational Thoughts for Each Day of the Year. Nashville, Tenn. : J. Countryman, 2000, S. 27
Luke 10:40–42 nkjv
Martha is worried about something good. She’s having Jesus over for dinner. She’s literally serving God. Her aim was to please Jesus. But she made a common, yet dangerous mistake. As she began to work for him, her work became more important than her Lord. What began as a way to serve Jesus, slowly and subtly became a way to serve self.… She has forgotten that the meal is to honor Jesus, not Martha.…
It’s easy to forget who is the servant and who is to be served.
He Still Moves Stones
[1]
TODAY'S SCRIPTURE IN CONTEXT
[1]Lucado, Max; Gibbs, Terri A.: Grace for the Moment: Inspirational Thoughts for Each Day of the Year. Nashville, Tenn. : J. Countryman, 2000, S. 27
Thursday, January 11, 2007
FAITHFULLY PRESENT
The Son of Man came to find lost people and save them.
Luke 19:10
Our God is the God who follows. Have you sensed him following you? He is the one who came to seek and save the lost. Have you sensed him seeking you?
Have you felt his presence through the kindness of a stranger? Through the majesty of a sunset or the mystery of romance? Through the question of a child or the commitment of a spouse? Through a word well spoken or a touch well timed, have you sensed him? …
God gives us himself. Even when we choose our hovel over his house and our trash over his grace, still he follows. Never forcing us. Never leaving us. Patiently persistent. Faithfully present. He uses all his power to convince us that he is who he is and he can be trusted to lead us home.
The Gift for All People
[1]
Today's Scripture in Context
[1]Lucado, Max ; Gibbs, Terri A.: Grace for the Moment : Inspirational Thoughts for Each Day of the Year. Nashville, Tenn. : J. Countryman, 2000, S. 26
Luke 19:10
Our God is the God who follows. Have you sensed him following you? He is the one who came to seek and save the lost. Have you sensed him seeking you?
Have you felt his presence through the kindness of a stranger? Through the majesty of a sunset or the mystery of romance? Through the question of a child or the commitment of a spouse? Through a word well spoken or a touch well timed, have you sensed him? …
God gives us himself. Even when we choose our hovel over his house and our trash over his grace, still he follows. Never forcing us. Never leaving us. Patiently persistent. Faithfully present. He uses all his power to convince us that he is who he is and he can be trusted to lead us home.
The Gift for All People
[1]
Today's Scripture in Context
[1]Lucado, Max ; Gibbs, Terri A.: Grace for the Moment : Inspirational Thoughts for Each Day of the Year. Nashville, Tenn. : J. Countryman, 2000, S. 26
Wednesday, January 10, 2007
MADE FOR HEAVEN
My kingdom does not belong to this world.
John 18:36
Unhappiness on earth cultivates a hunger for heaven. By gracing us with a deep dissatisfaction, God holds our attention. The only tragedy, then, is to be satisfied prematurely. To settle for earth. To be content in a strange land.…
We are not happy here because we are not at home here. We are not happy here because we are not supposed to be happy here. We are “like foreigners and strangers in this world” (1st Peter 2:11).…
And you will never be completely happy on earth simply because you were not made for earth. Oh, you will have your moments of joy. You will catch glimpses of light. You will know moments or even days of peace. But they simply do not compare with the happiness that lies ahead.
When God Whispers Your Name
[1]
TODAY'S SCRIPTURE IN CONTEXT
[1]Lucado, Max ; Gibbs, Terri A.: Grace for the Moment : Inspirational Thoughts for Each Day of the Year. Nashville, Tenn. : J. Countryman, 2000, S. 25
John 18:36
Unhappiness on earth cultivates a hunger for heaven. By gracing us with a deep dissatisfaction, God holds our attention. The only tragedy, then, is to be satisfied prematurely. To settle for earth. To be content in a strange land.…
We are not happy here because we are not at home here. We are not happy here because we are not supposed to be happy here. We are “like foreigners and strangers in this world” (1st Peter 2:11).…
And you will never be completely happy on earth simply because you were not made for earth. Oh, you will have your moments of joy. You will catch glimpses of light. You will know moments or even days of peace. But they simply do not compare with the happiness that lies ahead.
When God Whispers Your Name
[1]
TODAY'S SCRIPTURE IN CONTEXT
[1]Lucado, Max ; Gibbs, Terri A.: Grace for the Moment : Inspirational Thoughts for Each Day of the Year. Nashville, Tenn. : J. Countryman, 2000, S. 25
Tuesday, January 09, 2007
OUR HIGH PRIEST
Our high priest is able to understand our weaknesses. When he lived on earth, he was tempted in every way that we are, but he did not sin.
Hebrews 4:15
Read how J. B. Phillips translates Hebrews 4:15:
For we have no superhuman High Priest to whom our weaknesses are unintelligible—he himself has shared fully in all our experience of temptation, except that he never sinned.
It’s as if he knows that we will say to God … : “God, it’s easy for you up there. You don’t know how hard it is from down here.” So he boldly proclaims Jesus’ ability to understand. Look at the wording again.
He himself. Not an angel. Not an ambassador. Not an emissary, but Jesus himself.
Shared fully. Not partially. Not nearly. Not to a large degree. Entirely! Jesus shared fully.
In all our experience. Every hurt. Each ache. All the stresses and all the strains. No exceptions. No substitutes. Why? So he could sympathize with our weaknesses.
In the Eye of the Storm[1]
Today's Scripture in Context
[1]Lucado, Max ; Gibbs, Terri A.: Grace for the Moment : Inspirational Thoughts for Each Day of the Year. Nashville, Tenn. : J. Countryman, 2000, S. 24
Hebrews 4:15
Read how J. B. Phillips translates Hebrews 4:15:
For we have no superhuman High Priest to whom our weaknesses are unintelligible—he himself has shared fully in all our experience of temptation, except that he never sinned.
It’s as if he knows that we will say to God … : “God, it’s easy for you up there. You don’t know how hard it is from down here.” So he boldly proclaims Jesus’ ability to understand. Look at the wording again.
He himself. Not an angel. Not an ambassador. Not an emissary, but Jesus himself.
Shared fully. Not partially. Not nearly. Not to a large degree. Entirely! Jesus shared fully.
In all our experience. Every hurt. Each ache. All the stresses and all the strains. No exceptions. No substitutes. Why? So he could sympathize with our weaknesses.
In the Eye of the Storm[1]
Today's Scripture in Context
[1]Lucado, Max ; Gibbs, Terri A.: Grace for the Moment : Inspirational Thoughts for Each Day of the Year. Nashville, Tenn. : J. Countryman, 2000, S. 24
Monday, January 08, 2007
THE WATER OF THE SERVANT
He poured water into a bowl and began to wash the followers’ feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around him.
John 13:5
To place our feet in the basin of Jesus is to place the filthiest parts of our lives into his hands. In the ancient East, people’s feet were caked with mud and dirt. The servant of the feast saw to it that the feet were cleaned. Jesus is assuming the role of the servant. He will wash the grimiest part of your life.
If you let him. The water of the Servant comes only when we confess that we are dirty. Only when we confess that we are caked with filth, that we have walked forbidden trails and followed the wrong paths.…
We will never be cleansed until we confess we are dirty. We will never be pure until we admit we are filthy. And we will never be able to wash the feet of those who have hurt us until we allow Jesus, the one we have hurt, to wash ours.
A Gentle Thunder
[1]
[1]Lucado, Max; Gibbs, Terri A.: Grace for the Moment: Inspirational Thoughts for Each Day of the Year. Nashville, Tenn. : J. Countryman, 2000, S. 23
John 13:5
To place our feet in the basin of Jesus is to place the filthiest parts of our lives into his hands. In the ancient East, people’s feet were caked with mud and dirt. The servant of the feast saw to it that the feet were cleaned. Jesus is assuming the role of the servant. He will wash the grimiest part of your life.
If you let him. The water of the Servant comes only when we confess that we are dirty. Only when we confess that we are caked with filth, that we have walked forbidden trails and followed the wrong paths.…
We will never be cleansed until we confess we are dirty. We will never be pure until we admit we are filthy. And we will never be able to wash the feet of those who have hurt us until we allow Jesus, the one we have hurt, to wash ours.
A Gentle Thunder
[1]
[1]Lucado, Max; Gibbs, Terri A.: Grace for the Moment: Inspirational Thoughts for Each Day of the Year. Nashville, Tenn. : J. Countryman, 2000, S. 23
Friday, January 05, 2007
DON’T MISS GOD’S ANSWER
Is anything too hard for the Lord? No!
Genesis 18:14
The God of surprises strikes again.… God does that for the faithful. Just when the womb gets too old for babies, Sarai gets pregnant. Just when the failure is too great for grace, David is pardoned.…
The lesson? Three words. Don’t give up.…
Is the road long? Don’t stop.
Is the night black? Don’t quit.
God is watching. For all you know right at this moment … the check may be in the mail.
The apology may be in the making.
The job contract may be on the desk.
Don’t quit. For if you do, you may miss the answer to your prayers.
He Still Moves Stones
[1]
TODAY'S SCRIPTURE IN CONTEXT
[1]Lucado, Max ; Gibbs, Terri A.: Grace for the Moment : Inspirational Thoughts for Each Day of the Year. Nashville, Tenn. : J. Countryman, 2000, S. 20
Genesis 18:14
The God of surprises strikes again.… God does that for the faithful. Just when the womb gets too old for babies, Sarai gets pregnant. Just when the failure is too great for grace, David is pardoned.…
The lesson? Three words. Don’t give up.…
Is the road long? Don’t stop.
Is the night black? Don’t quit.
God is watching. For all you know right at this moment … the check may be in the mail.
The apology may be in the making.
The job contract may be on the desk.
Don’t quit. For if you do, you may miss the answer to your prayers.
He Still Moves Stones
[1]
TODAY'S SCRIPTURE IN CONTEXT
[1]Lucado, Max ; Gibbs, Terri A.: Grace for the Moment : Inspirational Thoughts for Each Day of the Year. Nashville, Tenn. : J. Countryman, 2000, S. 20
Thursday, January 04, 2007
A COMPLETE RESTORATION
You will know that God’s power is very great for us who believe.
Ephesians 1:19
God loves to decorate. God has to decorate. Let him live long enough in a heart, and that heart will begin to change. Portraits of hurt will be replaced by landscapes of grace. Walls of anger will be demolished and shaky foundations restored. God can no more leave a life unchanged than a mother can leave her child’s tear untouched.…
This might explain some of the discomfort in your life. Remodeling of the heart is not always pleasant. We don’t object when the Carpenter adds a few shelves, but he’s been known to gut the entire west wing. He has such high aspirations for you. God envisions a complete restoration. He won’t stop until he is finished.… He wants you to be just like Jesus.
Just Like Jesus
[1]
Today's Scripture in Context
[1]Lucado, Max; Gibbs, Terri A.: Grace for the Moment: Inspirational Thoughts for Each Day of the Year. Nashville, Tenn. : J. Countryman, 2000, S. 19
Ephesians 1:19
God loves to decorate. God has to decorate. Let him live long enough in a heart, and that heart will begin to change. Portraits of hurt will be replaced by landscapes of grace. Walls of anger will be demolished and shaky foundations restored. God can no more leave a life unchanged than a mother can leave her child’s tear untouched.…
This might explain some of the discomfort in your life. Remodeling of the heart is not always pleasant. We don’t object when the Carpenter adds a few shelves, but he’s been known to gut the entire west wing. He has such high aspirations for you. God envisions a complete restoration. He won’t stop until he is finished.… He wants you to be just like Jesus.
Just Like Jesus
[1]
Today's Scripture in Context
[1]Lucado, Max; Gibbs, Terri A.: Grace for the Moment: Inspirational Thoughts for Each Day of the Year. Nashville, Tenn. : J. Countryman, 2000, S. 19
Wednesday, January 03, 2007
WORTHLESS WORRY
I was young, and now I am old, but I have never seen good people left helpless or their children begging for food.
Psalm 37:25
We worry. We worry about the IRS and the SAT and the FBI.… We worry that we won’t have enough money, and when we have money we worry that we won’t manage it well. We worry that the world will end before the parking meter expires. We worry what the dog thinks if he sees us step out of the shower. We worry that someday we’ll learn that fat-free yogurt was fattening.
Honestly, now. Did God save you so you would fret? Would he teach you to walk just to watch you fall? Would he be nailed to the cross for your sins and then disregard your prayers? Come on. Is Scripture teasing us when it reads, “He has put his angels in charge of you to watch over you wherever you go”? (Ps. 91:11).
I don’t think so either.
In the Grip of Grace
[1]
Note: Max Lucado, author of “In the Grip of Grace”, is one of my favorite authors of Christian devotional material. In the New Year, I want to be careful to give him credit for these devotions. I hope you will be blessed by them as much as I am.
[1]Lucado, Max; Gibbs, Terri A.: Grace for the Moment: Inspirational Thoughts for Each Day of the Year. Nashville, Tenn. : J. Countryman, 2000, S. 18
Psalm 37:25
We worry. We worry about the IRS and the SAT and the FBI.… We worry that we won’t have enough money, and when we have money we worry that we won’t manage it well. We worry that the world will end before the parking meter expires. We worry what the dog thinks if he sees us step out of the shower. We worry that someday we’ll learn that fat-free yogurt was fattening.
Honestly, now. Did God save you so you would fret? Would he teach you to walk just to watch you fall? Would he be nailed to the cross for your sins and then disregard your prayers? Come on. Is Scripture teasing us when it reads, “He has put his angels in charge of you to watch over you wherever you go”? (Ps. 91:11).
I don’t think so either.
In the Grip of Grace
[1]
Note: Max Lucado, author of “In the Grip of Grace”, is one of my favorite authors of Christian devotional material. In the New Year, I want to be careful to give him credit for these devotions. I hope you will be blessed by them as much as I am.
[1]Lucado, Max; Gibbs, Terri A.: Grace for the Moment: Inspirational Thoughts for Each Day of the Year. Nashville, Tenn. : J. Countryman, 2000, S. 18
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