CareLines: Volume 4

The day of Israel’s escape from the tyranny of Egypt was the beginning of a new year for them. Salvation from their old master and following a new one started this new beginning. So it is, too, for any today who accept Jesus as their Savior and Lord. Today you will begin a new life for Christ. Satan, your old master, has been conquered. You now have freedom and are following and serving a new Master - the King of kings and Lord of lords.

Faith

ACT 27:25

Wherefore, sirs, be of good cheer: for I believe God, that it shall be even as it was told me.

Acts 27:25

Faith is simply believing what God has said. The Apostle Paul had absolute confidence in what God told him. If God had said that all the ship would be saved, then that is what would happen. Unbelief would say, “But it seems unlikely. The storm is the worst I’ve ever been in. The ship is breaking up. Surely someone won’t make it.” But faith says, “Lord, I believe.” Do you respond by believing what God says?

The Rod

LAM 3:33

For He doth not afflict willingly, nor grieve the children of men.

Lamentations 3:33

God does not pass us through trials with a smile on His face, or with an attitude of, “This serves you right.” He uses trials at times to bring us into line when our communion with Him has been broken and difficulties are the only thing that will get our attention. How much better if we are in a constant state of self-judgment before the Lord so that He doesn’t have to use His rod on us.

Salvation

2SA 14:14

For we must needs die . . . yet doth He devise means, that His banished be not expelled from Him.

2 Samuel 14:14

Death is our fault. It’s because of sin. The wages of sin is death. And yet God has devised a means of stopping us from being shut out of His presence forever. It was VERY costly. It will NEVER be repeated. All you have to do is believe. Yes, it’s the old, old story of Jesus dying at Calvary so that we wouldn’t have to. We trust that everyone reading CARELINES believes the story of Jesus and knows Him as their personal Savior.

Dedication

ECC 9:10

Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might.

Ecclesiastes 9:10

The Lord doesn’t care for wishy-washiness. He likes dedication. He wants us to give it everything we’ve got. You don’t have to yell and scream, but just see a job through to its conclusion. So whatever it is, whether school work, chores at home, a work for the Lord - do it willingly, cheerfully, and put your heart into it.

Love

2SA 13:37-39

David mourned for his son every day. . . . And . . . king David longed to go forth unto Absalom.

2 Samuel 13:37, 39

Absalom was a bad son. He was a troublemaker and caused a lot of tears for David, his father. After Absalom had caused his half brother to be killed, he ran for his life and in our verse we have David’s reaction. This is true love. Even though Absalom had hurt David, David still loved him. What a lesson for us!

Zealous

GAL 4:18

It is good to be zealously affected always in a good thing.

Galatians 4:18

Zealous means enthusiastic. There is much enthusiasm today for the wrong things. Hard rock and rap concerts are filled to capacity with enthusiastic crowds of screaming fans. How’s our enthusiasm for good things? Do we get into the Lord’s work with energy and full of zeal? Or are we halfhearted and grudging in our service. Let’s attempt to be zealous in good things. It’ll help shut the bad things out.

Service

TIT 3:14

Let ours also learn to maintain good works for necessary uses, that they be not unfruitful.

Titus 3:14

It is needful for us as Christians to do good works. There are many unsaved people who are kind and philanthropic. (How d’you like that word?) How much more should we, who have been given so much by God, be kind to those around. In a world that for the most part thinks only of self let us be exercised before the Lord to do a work for Him that will bring honor to Him and that fruit may be accredited to our account in the Bank of Heaven.

Book of Life

REV 20:15

And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.

Revelation 20:15

What an end! Eternity in the lake of fire! Why? Because their name was not in the book of life. How about yours? Is it written in the book of life? If it isn’t, then your destiny is the same as those in our verse. Accept Jesus today while you’ve still got a chance. Tomorrow may be too late - there may not be a tomorrow for you. You may already be in hell, destined for the lake of fire.

Service

2PE 1:1

JAM 1:1

Simon Peter, a servant.

2 Peter 1:1

James, a servant.

James 1:1

Servants used to be fairly common in the aristocratic homes of England and other wealthy nations. They had no privileges - they just did what their masters wanted. What an encouragement in our verses today that two of the most prominent apostles called themselves servants. What does this suggest? They considered themselves nothing - just servants to do God’s will. Let’s learn a great lesson here. God appreciates those who take a low place. Are you a servant?

Diligence

2PE 1:5

Giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue.

2 Peter 1:5

The path of faith is not easy. It requires diligence. It requires courage. It requires faithfulness. Peter here is encouraging us to be diligent to not stagnate. This means that we should be growing and alive. Life as a Christian begins with faith. After that, we need to spend time in adding to our faith the quality of Christian courage.

Courage

2PE 1:5

Giving all diligence, add . . . to virtue, knowledge.

2 Peter 1:5

Christianity is alive. In children we like to see growth. When a child doesn’t grow we seek medical help. So for a Christian. We can’t stop with virtue (or courage) without adding knowledge. We need the knowledge that God gives to help us know the path to walk in.

Self-Control

2PE 1:5-6

Giving all diligence, add . . . to knowledge self-control.

2 Peter 1:5, 6 N. K. J. V

Self-control is such a necessary characteristic to have. We have confidence in another if we see them able to control themselves. This doesn’t mean that you can’t have fun and a good time. But you do need to know when the fun is beginning to turn into stupidity and it’s time to stop. God-given knowledge will help us determine when things are approaching the non-acceptable level. Then we can let self-control take over and bring whatever it is that is about to get out of hand into submission.

Perseverance

2PE 1:5-6

Giving all diligence, add . . . to self-control perseverance.

2 Peter 1:5, 6 N.K.J.V

When times get tough, many just plain give up. It’s too hard to stand for the truth, so they begin to let it slip - until it’s gone. The Scriptures would encourage us to persevere. The going got really tough for the Apostle Paul, but he never gave up. He persevered. He preached the gospel wherever he went, regardless of the circumstances. Are we that willing to continue in the path that the Lord has marked out for us?

Godliness

2PE 1:5-6

Giving all diligence, add . . . to perseverance godliness.

2 Peter 1:5, 6 N.K.J.V

I may persevere in a particular course and end up in a place that is not honoring to God. So the Scripture would exhort us to add godliness to our other Christian characteristics. Don’t persevere into the pollutions of the world. Keep a godly walk, and an upright heart.

Brotherly Kindness

2PE 1:5-7

Giving all diligence, add . . . to godliness, brotherly kindness.

2 Peter 1:5, 7

God has created us as Christians to be well-rounded. We should not lean too far to the left or too far to the right. So in all our endeavors to add these various characteristics to our Christian walk, the Lord doesn’t want us to forget His people. We must show kindness to our brothers and sisters in Christ. Christianity is real, it’s down-to-earth, it’s practical. Be kind.

Love

2PE 1:5-7

Giving all diligence, add . . . to brotherly kindness love.

2 Peter 1:5, 7 N.K.J.V

Love reaches out to all. It’s not kept for a certain group or person to the exclusion of others. The Lord never showed favoritism and He certainly was never too busy to reach out a hand of love to help someone in need. So the final addition to our faith is the capstone of Christianity-LOVE. Do you show it?

The Greatest Thing

DEU 4:32

For ask now of the days that are past . . . whether there hath been any such things as this great thing is, or hath been heard like it?

Deuteronomy 4:32

The greatest event that has ever taken place in the history of the world is, without question, the death of the Son of God at Calvary. Every person that has ever lived, from Adam on down, has to respond either positively or negatively to Calvary. You MUST reply. This is not a question that you can skip. The answer is either “Yes” or “No.” There is no “not sure” answer. Do you believe that Jesus died for you?

Praise

2CH 29:27

And when the burnt offering began, the song of the Lord began also with the trumpets, and with the instruments ordained by David.

2 Chronicles 29:27

The song of the Lord! What a privilege to be able to start the song now. What an even greater privilege to spend eternity around the Lord, singing His praise.

In songs of sweet, untiring praise,
The one eternal song we’ll raise,
In singing still His grace.
In singing still His grace.

Self-Praise

PRO 27:2

Let another man praise thee, and not thine own mouth.

Proverbs 27:2

Self-praise is expected in many places today. The self-evaluation forms you fill out for your yearly review at work are for self-praise. It’s here that you brag about all your accomplishments for the past year and how much greater you expect to do in the next year. Let’s remember, young friend, that self-praise counts for nothing in God’s eyes. The praise from the lips of our Lord acknowledging what we have done for Him is the only praise that counts.

Danger

PRO 27:8

As a bird that wandereth from her nest, so is a man that wandereth from his place.

Proverb 27:8

The Lord has given each of us a responsibility of some kind in His Church. If we shirk our duty and go and do something else, then we are like the bird that wanders from her nest. The nest is a place of safety. There is no protection when the bird leaves the nest. So if we wander away from our responsibilities, we will be unprotected and could be in danger of outside attacks. Do the job that God has given you to do. He wants you to work for Him.

Sin and Confession

PRO 28:13

Whoso confesseth and forsaketh [his sins] shall have mercy.

Proverbs 28:13

There is a double responsibility for a person who sins if he is to have God’s mercy. First, you need to confess your sin. The Lord wants to hear “I have sinned” from your lips. Second, turn away from the path that got you into the sin in the first place. We must fulfill our part if we want God to fulfill His. Forsaking sin shows real repentance.

Satisfaction

PRO 27:20

The eyes of man are never satisfied.

Proverbs 27:20

The eyes and the heart of man are never satisfied. The world is full of things made specifically to satisfy. They do - for a time. And then we want again. Unfortunately, we Christians get just like this. Let each of us be very careful that we don’t live a life of discontented complaining. God has given us all things richly to enjoy. Let’s enjoy them. Satisfaction will not come from anything else other than what the Lord provides.

Compassion

MAR 8:2

I have compassion on the multitude, because they have now been with Me three days, and have nothing to eat.

Mark 8:2

The food had run out. The crowd had been following the Lord for three days and were probably hungry by this time. But you’ll notice that the Lord didn’t complain because He had no food. Rather, He was concerned for those around Him. This is true compassion - to be concerned for the well-being of others before yourself. Sometimes the Lord’s work may take long hours, no rest, no food. Even then, the people that we are trying to reach should still come first.

Prayer

LUK 6:12

And it came to pass in those days, that He went out into a mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God.

Luke 6:12

I wonder how many of us are this dedicated in our prayer habits. The Lord had a major decision to make the next day. Out of all those who had been His followers, He had to choose twelve special ones to whom He would give gifts of healing and preaching; twelve who would be with Him during the rest of His life here. It was not to be entered into lightly. So He spent all night in prayer about it. This is a great lesson for us. How many decisions do we make with this much help from the Lord?

Prayer

LUK 6:12

And it came to pass in those days, that He went out into a mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God.

Luke 6:12

There’s another lesson to learn from this verse. If you read verse 11, you will see that the scribes and Pharisees had just had a planning meeting to figure out what they could do to Jesus. He had made them extremely angry by doing good on the Sabbath. Instead of the Lord panicking and planning His escape, He goes to an all-night prayer session with His Father.

Hell & Heaven

PRO 27:20 JOH 14:2

Hell and destruction are never full.

Proverbs 27:20

In My Father’s house are many mansions.

John 14:2

These are VERY solemn verses. The Lord mentioned that in His Father’s house are MANY mansions. There is not an infinite supply, and someday they will all be filled. Hell, however, will never be full. What does this mean? When the last person has been saved there will be no more room in heaven. But hell will have plenty of room. You have to plan ahead for eternity in heaven. There’s no need to reserve a place in hell because it’s never full. Do you see why it’s so important to trust in Jesus while you have the chance? Don’t put it off any longer.

With Him

EXO 33:21

There is a place by Me, and thou shalt stand upon a rock.

Exodus 33:21

These words were spoken to Moses, who had requested to see the Lord’s glory. Let’s all take courage by the Lord’s response - “There is a place by Me” - a place of safety, a place of shelter, a place of peace. “Thou shalt stand upon a rock” - a place of security, a place that doesn’t change. Are we enjoying that place by Him? Are we standing on a rock? We can, if we keep in communion with Him.

Protected

PSA 18:2

The Lord is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer.

Psalm 18:2

My rock - my support underneath;

My fortress - my defense around;

My deliverer - my protector from within.

If you’re a Christian you too have this impenetrable and unbeatable Protector. If you are not a Christian, you have no protection at all. You are totally at Satan’s mercy. I think I would feel really nervous if I were not a Christian.

Midnight

EXO 12:29

About midnight will I go out into the midst of Egypt. Exodus 11:4

At midnight the Lord smote all the firstborn in the land of Egypt.

Exodus 12:29

The most heartbreaking judgment fell on the Egyptians at midnight. There was not one house where there was not one dead. Not one Egyptian household had taken advantage of the blood of the slain lamb. And every house lost one person. But the worst is yet to come. At the midnight of our age not just one person but all unbelievers in each family will be taken for judgment. Are you prepared? Have you taken Jesus as your Savior?

Demon Possession

LUK 8:35

They . . . found the man . . . sitting at the feet of Jesus, clothed, and in his right mind.

Luke 8:35

This man, Legion, was demon possessed - a madman. He lived naked in a graveyard, cut himself with stones, and was so strong that he broke chains. I think the townspeople were probably glad that he stayed in the graveyard. There’s a lesson here. Belonging to Satan makes you walk in the place of death. But Jesus spoke, the demons left, Legion got “converted” and we now see him sitting at the Lord’s feet, clothed and sane. Wonderful story. It’s happened over and over. Jesus brings new life. We pray that you all have it too.

Life

ECC 11:5

As thou knowest not . . . how the bones do grow in the womb of her that is with child: even so thou knowest not the works of God who maketh all.

Ecclesiastes 11:5

Did you ever feel a sense of “awe” about God’s creation? Whether the subject is chemistry or physics or genetics or the origin of life, it seems that the more we know the more we don’t know. The Lord wants us to feel our smallness so that we will concentrate our thoughts more on Him. Jesus not only has perfect wisdom about life, but He gives life, and more than that, He IS life.

Brokenness

PSA 51:2-3

Wash me thoroughly from mine iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin. For I acknowledge my transgressions: and my sin is ever before me.

Psalm 51:2, 3

Standing before the judge and posting bail, Demetri felt he was at the low point of his life. He had been arrested for practicing dentistry without a license and now faced a large fine or jail. What bothered him even more was the damage to his reputation among his friends. The Lord used Demetri’s brokenness, however, to bring him to confess his sins and ask God for forgiveness. He now thanks God for his arrest!

Confidence

PSA 118:8

It is better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in man.

Psalm 118:8

John was feeling pretty confident with his new car. It had the latest in “ABS” brakes and a driver’s airbag. One day, as he was driving, the traffic in front of him suddenly stopped. Unfortunately for John, his brakes failed and he hit the car in front of him - just enough to activate the airbag. The accident was not serious, but John had shielded his face with his hand and the airbag pushed his hand with such force that his wrist was broken and his eye injured. Nothing that man invents is foolproof. Today’s verse says it best.

Perfect Man

JAM 3:2

If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man.

James 3:2

Have you noticed the vast difference between God’s “measuring stick” and man’s? Today’s verse about the perfect man is a good example. We are encouraged in this world to be the best we can be, to strive for perfection. Rarely, however, is much said about humility or about not offending with our words. The world says: “Put your best foot forward.” God’s principle is to put yourself in the background and care more about others.

Convictions

GEN 22:2

Take now thy son . . . and offer him there for a burnt offering upon one of the mountains which I will tell thee of.

Genesis 22:2

Abraham was a man of great faith and deep conviction. It has been said that if Abraham had been totally devoted to his convictions, he may have slain Isaac, figuring that the voice he heard was that of the enemy. It is possible to be so “unmovable” in your belief or position that you may fail to hear the “still small voice” of God. Have you ever examined your beliefs and convictions in the “light” of His Word? Prayerfully ask God to show you what is really from Him.

Service

LUK 8:39

[Legion] went his way, and published throughout the whole city how great things Jesus had done unto him.

Luke 8:39

What’s happened to our mad friend? You mean he’s still sane? Yes! And he talks sense? Yes! What’s he saying? Oh, something about that man Jesus and how He cured him, and he thinks He’s the most wonderful person he’s ever met; He was so kind and gentle and compassionate. Legion says he thought Jesus was going to hurt him because he felt a power so that even his old demons were afraid. But Jesus just spoke to him. And Legion says he wishes we hadn’t asked Jesus to leave - he wants us to get to know Him too. Service for the Master - witnessing.

Service

ACT 14:26

Recommended . . . for the work which they fulfilled.

Acts 14:26

When you are recommended by your local assembly to a particular work, it brings joy to that gathering when they see you fulfill that work. They should be so in tune with the Lord that they can sense what He would have you do and therefore they can recommend you for the work. It brings peace and harmony when a local gathering can have complete confidence in a brother or a sister in the work they do for the Lord.

Hate

PRO 26:26

Whose hatred is covered by deceit, his wickedness shall be showed before the whole congregation.

Proverbs 26:26

Hatred is a sin that you can cover up by a smiling, friendly outside. But it is a poison that must be dealt with. If you have hate for someone, talk to the Lord about it. It is a very grievous and destructive sin that causes trouble in the end. It breaks up families, it breaks up assemblies, and it separates friends. Let God’s love help you to judge the hate.

Good Marriage

PRO 25:24

It is better to dwell in the corner of the housetop, than with a brawling woman and in a wide house.

Proverbs 25:24

This explains it well, doesn’t it? Who wants the largest house in town, and the best-kept grounds, and a pool, and a tennis court, but a rotten relationship with a wife that fights all the time? Your marriage will be miserable. Much better to have a loving, happy marriage even with little of this world’s goods. Choose prayerfully!

Reward

PRO 25:21-22

If thine enemy be hungry, give him bread to eat . . . and the Lord shall reward thee.

Proverbs 25:21, 22

The world’s philosophy is to get rid of your enemies, or at least ignore them or make their life as miserable as possible. But God’s request is that if our enemy is hungry, give him a meal. Kindness done for God will be rewarded by Him. Who knows, your kindness may lead them to know the Lord Jesus as their Savior too.

Perplexed

2CO 4:8

We are perplexed, but not altogether without help.

2 Corinthians 4:8 (margin)

I think the Holy Spirit must have been anticipating 1993 when He caused Paul to write this verse, don’t you? We are indeed puzzled as we see the world floundering in financial and political crises. Almost every country is in some kind of turmoil. But the beautiful thing for a Christian is that we are not altogether without help. Our God is still in heaven, in charge, and He knows what He is doing. And He knows how to keep us.

Depressed

2CO 4:8-9

We are . . . cast down, but not destroyed.

2 Corinthians 4:8, 9

Depression is a very real problem for many. We all have days when we wish folks would leave us alone. But deep depression hits some people and they have a real hard time shaking it off. Just remember (if you suffer from depression) that as a Christian, even though things in your life may seem to be as bad as they could possibly get, God will not let you be destroyed. He always loves you, regardless of what you think of yourself. Let Him lift you up. Consider what Jesus went through for you and remember that you will NEVER have to go through anything like He did.

Service

2TH 3:13

But ye, brethren, be not weary in well doing.

2 Thessalonians 3:13

We should never grow tired of doing good to others, even though no one may do anything for us. Our love is often so conditional - I’ll help you if you help me. But God’s love is totally unconditional. He will always help us regardless. We should do the same - always be ready and willing to help.

Work

2TH 3:10

We commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat.

2 Thessalonians 3:10

A socialized society will generate laziness. Man has figured out more ways to not work and get the government to pay for his food and other necessities. But God expects us to work. The Apostle Paul really condemned those who wouldn’t, and felt that if they wouldn’t work then they shouldn’t eat either. Don’t leech from the government, friends or family. Work.

Prayer

1TH 5:17

Pray without ceasing.

1 Thessalonians 5:17

There is never a time in a Christian’s life when prayer is not necessary. Talking to the Lord is an absolute must if you are to keep on the right path and not displease Him. And prayer is not limited to kneeling beside your bed with your eyes closed, or at the prayer meeting. No, you can talk to Jesus anytime, anywhere.

Peace

1TH 5:13

Be at peace among yourselves.

1 Thessalonians 5:13

It’s often the little things that bug us and cause hard feelings. And eventually the little things grow into big things. The Lord wants us to be at peace with all Christians. Let’s judge the little things in our lives, overlook the things we don’t like in others, and be at peace.

Comfort

1TH 5:14

Comfort the fainthearted.

1 Thessalonians 5:14 N.K.J.V

Do you know someone who is afraid? Encourage them to trust the Lord. Comfort them. There are those who are afraid of what tomorrow may bring. There are those who are afraid because of what they did yesterday - they offended someone perhaps. Others are afraid of a new school, an interview, that math exam, a new foster home, the first day on a new job. Comfort them. Encourage them to put faith into action. Comfort the fainthearted.

Tidings

1TH 3:6

Timotheus . . . brought us good tidings of your faith and [love].

1 Thessalonians 3:6

It’s a real encouragement when we hear of the faith and love of new Christians. The Apostle was encouraged when he heard of them in the Thessalonian saints. And it’s a real cheer to us who are older to see the faith and feel the love of our young people. Hold onto the faith, young friend. And always let your love shine.

Example

1TH 1:7

Ye were ensamples to all that believe.

1 Thessalonians 1:7

These saints were examples because of the joy they had even in spite of persecution. The faith of the Thessalonian Christians was so strong that persecution, instead of producing bitterness and anger, produced joy. And everyone knew that they were Christians. How’s our witness - even without any persecution?

Wise Walk

COL 4:5

Walk in wisdom toward them that are without.

Colossians 4:5

Life is far more complex now than it used to be. The pace of life is much faster than it used to be. More and more people are turning their backs on God. We desperately need to walk with wisdom. The only source of true wisdom is God. So each of us needs, on a daily basis, to ask the Lord for wisdom so that we will know how to treat the unsaved, when to speak for the Lord, how to act before the world, and in general demonstrate (without acting proud or giving offense) that we belong to heaven.

Service

COL 1:29

Whereunto I also labor, striving according to His working, which worketh in me mightily.

Colossians 1:29

The Apostle Paul served the Lord in several ways, his primary service being in the gospel. However, in our verse today Paul is laboring with the saints of God with a view to helping them mature in their spiritual growth. But notice that the Apostle did not work according to the way he thought it should be done but according to God’s leading. This is the great secret of successful service - according to God’s working.

Old/New

COL 3:9-10

Lie not . . . seeing that ye have put off the old man . . . and have put on the new man.

Colossians 3:9, 10

It’s interesting to see that many of the Apostle’s letters contain instructions similar to what we have here. Don’t lie to each other, he says. Why is this mentioned? Because our inborn nature has the tendency to lie. As unbelievers we lied easily to save ourselves from trouble. Now as Christians we need to be honest - always. All our words must be truthful. We have rejected the old nature and have accepted the new one. Let’s also get rid of the old nature’s habits.

Trustworthy

EPH 6:5-6

Be obedient . . . not with eyeservice, as menpleasers.

Ephesians 6:5, 6

I once worked with a guy who was Mr. B. (Busy) Dedication when the boss was in. But as soon as the manager left on a business trip my work-mate took it easy. He spent lots of time reading the newspaper. That’s eyeservice -menpleasers. God wants us to be trustworthy. If we are being watched or not, we still work just as hard, we are still just as courteous, we are still just as honest, we still come to work on time.

Gossip

PRO 26:20

Where there is no talebearer, the strife ceaseth.

Proverbs 26:20

Trouble would stop if talebearers would keep their mouths closed. What a lot of trouble has been caused by those who pass on “information” to their circle of friends. “Do you know what I just heard . . ?” And with each telling the story changes. Be very careful of gossip. Some things are better left unsaid.

Friend

PRO 27:6

Faithful are the wounds of a friend.

Proverbs 27:6

So your best friend just said something that hurt you. It was done in faithfulness to God and to help you. It wasn’t done in spite - to deliberately hurt you. Take it from the Lord and think about what your friend said. Don’t take offense, but allow the constructive criticism to build your character. Anything that is not good —forget it.

Encouragement

1CH 28:20

Be strong and of a good courage, and do it: fear not, nor be dismayed.

1 Chronicles 28:20

David had badly wanted to build the temple but God would not let him. So David gave the job to his son Solomon, and after showing him the plans, he encouraged him with the above words. What a thrill it must have been for Solomon to hear those words from his dad. Let any father reading this absorb this lesson and encourage your children to do good and to be unafraid.

Encouragement

JOS 1:7

Be thou strong and very courageous.

Joshua 1:7

Here’s another message of encouragement spoken to Joshua by the Lord. Joshua had a major job to do - to lead several million people into Canaan. Doubtless he was afraid. But God builds up his confidence by telling him to be strong and very courageous. Faith will make you brave. Walk the path of faith, young Christian friend, and feel the Lord’s words of encouragement helping you along.

Encouragement

DEU 31:16

Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them.

Deuteronomy 31:6

Moses had been told by God that he could not go into the promised land. He would die before he got there. But Moses spoke to Israel to encourage them to go on. God was on their side and they didn’t need to be afraid. What a God we have! There’s no need for us to be afraid either. If God be for us, who can be against us? Let’s go on toward heaven with our heads up, and a strong step. There’s nothing to be afraid of.

Service

JOH 12:26

If any man serve Me, let him follow Me.

John 12:26

This requires complete commitment. We need to be absolutely dedicated. Peter was willing to follow the Lord even into death. Paul followed the Lord into immense hardship and suffering, but he says that it was worth it all. Other, more recent servants have followed the Lord to Africa, India, China, and other remote and often primitive countries where they have served Him faithfully. How about you?

Apart

MAT 17:1

Jesus taketh Peter, James, and John his brother . . . into a high mountain apart.

Matthew 17:1

There’s nothing like being away from the world and alone with the Lord. These three special disciples of the Lord had a wonderful experience when they were taken up into a high mountain apart. They saw the incredible glories of the Lord, and were made to realize what Jesus means to His Father. No one else is so important or pleases Him so much. Spend time with the Lord. Shut out the distractions and attractions of the world by going up with Him into a high mountain apart, and enjoy the beauties of His person.

Relationships

1TH 5:13

Be at peace among yourselves.

1 Thessalonians 5:13

Peace is what the world leaders are striving for but never attaining. They never will. They crucified the Prince of Peace and have had trouble ever since. But we believers have the God of peace with us and His peace in our hearts. We have the ability to show peace and to be at peace among ourselves. Let’s do it.

Confession

2SA 24:10

David’s heart smote him . . . and David said unto the Lord, I have sinned greatly.

2 Samuel 24:10

David had just done a census of Israel without the Lord’s permission. He knew he was wrong (it had been forbidden by God) and his conscience bothered him. So David comes to the Lord and confesses his sin. Communion is then reestablished between David and the Lord. That’s what the Lord wants to hear from us too when we sin. “Lord, I have sinned. I’m sorry.” We must confess in order to restore communion with our Head in heaven. Broken communion leads to unhappiness.

Comparisons

2CO 10:12

But they, measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise.

2 Corinthians 10:12

“Look, I’m not as bad as her.”

“He does a whole lot more bad things than I do.”

“I don’t think I’m such a bad person.”

Ever heard statements like these? They’re people’s views of themselves when they compare themselves to other people. But the comparison for sinfulness must be against God’s standard. Then how do you measure up? You fall short, right? God will not compare you to anyone else, just to His Son. If you don’t measure up - you’ll miss out.

Associations

2CO 6:14

Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers.

2 Corinthians 6:14

This verse is often used in connection with marriage. But you can apply it to every decision in life. If you establish any kind of relationship with an unbeliever you are going against this advice by the Apostle. Be careful. A yoke is often binding and hard, sometimes impossible, to break. Permanent associations with unbelievers can lead to having to support decisions that are against the Lord. Be careful with whom you associate.

Deliverance

GEN 45:7

God sent me before you . . . to save your lives by a great deliverance.

Genesis 45:7

Joseph was speaking to his brothers here after having been separated from them for something like 20 years. He didn’t know it, but what he said was prophetic of what the Lord Jesus would do at Calvary. Jesus has indeed saved our lives by a great deliverance. He gave His life so that we could live. He shed His blood to wash our sins away. He was separated from God so that we could be in God’s presence forever. What a deliverance we enjoy. What a Deliverer we have.

Service

COL 1:10

That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work.

Colossians 1:10

Selfishness is a characteristic of an unsaved person. After we’ve been saved, God gives us His Spirit and puts His love is in our hearts. That love would reach out to others in good works and kindness. He expects us to serve Him in this way. David wanted to show the kindness of God to those less fortunate. And he showed that kindness to a cripple. Let’s let our Christian love show to those around and share what we have with others.

Rewards

2CO 5:10

For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive . . .

2 Corinthians 5:10

We will all stand before God and our lives will be reviewed. Good things done for Him will be rewarded. Things done for ourselves (even though done under the guise of “for the Lord”) will be thrown out. How good to know that the One who will be judging our case has perfect knowledge and is completely righteous in judgment. We will agree with every decision He makes - with no questions. While we are waiting for the Lord to come, let’s try to do all things for His glory. Then there will be no loss.

Gain

PHI 3:7

But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ.

Philippians 3:7

The Apostle Paul had a lot going for him. He was well-educated, and had a powerful position in politics. But when he met the Lord on the road to Damascus, his life was totally changed. He gave up everything that this world had to offer and dedicated his life to serving the Lord Jesus. Do you think he lost out? Of course not. He may have lost something in this life but his eternal gain is great. He, like Moses before him, had “respect unto the recompense of the reward.” Hebrews 11:26.

Fornication

COL 3:5

[Put to death] therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication.

Colossians 3:5

Fornication is a choice. You can decide either to commit it or to abstain from it. The Scriptures warn over and over of the dangers of committing fornication. God regards it as a serious offense. It is of the old nature. Let the Spirit take control of your life and keep the old nature in the place of death. Ask the Lord to help you if you have a problem in this area. He wants you to be pure just as He is pure. And it’s possible.

Reward

COL 3:25

He that doeth wrong shall receive for the wrong which he hath done: and there is no respect of persons.

Colossians 3:25

God doesn’t care who you are, what your social level is, who your parents are, if you’re educated or not, if you are rich or poor, or what nationality you have. If you do wrong, you will receive what is due for the wrong you have done. If you do well, you will receive the appropriate reward for that. God judges everything by His standard. Nobility has no place in God’s reckoning. So we cannot be sloppy in our walk. No matter who we are, we will be held accountable. Walk carefully.

Luke

COL 4:14

Luke, the beloved physician.

Colossians 4:14

Luke wrote two New Testament books. He was a doctor. He is mentioned by name only three times in the New Testament. He followed the Apostle Paul in his travels and worked with him. He records the life of the Lord Jesus in his gospel and the effects of Christianity on the world in the book of the Acts. Other workers forsook Paul but Luke remained. He was a true disciple of the Lord but is never labeled as one in the Gospels. His writings tell about Jesus and others, but Luke remains hidden. A true servant never tries to be in the forefront but promotes the glories of the Lord.

Jesus

MAT 17:8

And when they had lifted up their eyes, they saw no man, save Jesus only.

Matthew 17:8

This is a great verse to keep in mind as you gather around the Lord Jesus today to remember Him in His death at Calvary. There is so much to distract and bother. Just imagine yourself with these disciples and seeing the glories of the Lord at the top of the mountain, then to have it all clear away and see no one except Jesus only. He’s the only one we need to be occupied with today. Let Him fill your heart and mind. Enjoy Him and His great love for you.

Service

1CO 7:23

Ye are bought with a price; be not ye the servants of men.

1 Corinthians 7:23

You are owned. You’ve been bought. The price was the highest price that anyone ever paid for another. It cost Jesus His life. Now you belong to Him and, belonging to Him, you have the opportunity to serve Him. It’s impossible to serve two masters, so rather than trying to serve man, spend your talent and energy on serving the Lord Jesus Christ. Think about ways in which you can serve Him and make them a matter of prayer. The Lord will guide you as to how He wants you to serve.

Resurrection

ACT 4:2

They . . . preached through Jesus the resurrection from the dead.

Acts 4:2

Death holds no power for the believer. The Lord Jesus Christ broke the power of death when He rose from the dead after three days in the grave. Now resurrection is a reality and is the basis of the hope that lies before us. Without resurrection, the Apostle Paul says that our hope is in vain, we are still in our sins. No, the wonderful news is that Jesus rose from the dead. Death could not hold Him, and it can’t hold us either.

Wanting Tekel.

DAN 5:25

Daniel 5:25

“You have been weighed on the balances and found wanting.”

You are a sinner and have come short of the glory of God. “And I saw the dead . . . stand before God . . . and they were judged.” Sorry, but if you turn down the love of God, you’ll feel His judgment instead. Don’t be TEKEL - found wanting. Get saved. It’s much happier, and you’ll be safe for all eternity.

Prudence

PRO 22:3 PRO 27:12

A prudent man foreseeth the evil, and hideth himself.

Proverbs 22:3; 27:12

It’s not by accident that this verse occurs twice in the Scriptures. The definition of prudence is to be cautious, or to exercise sound judgment. We are being warned in these verses that we need to use caution in our daily walk. And when we see something developing that is evil and would be dangerous to our spiritual health, we should put sound judgment into operation and avoid the evil. We also need to be observant and not go around in a dream all the time. Satan is very clever. He spends his time trying to destroy Christians. So we must be always on guard. Watch out for evil - avoid it.

Knowing the Lord

1SA 3:7

Samuel did not yet know the Lord.

1 Samuel 3:7

There was a time early in Samuel’s life when he didn’t know the Lord. But when the time was ready, the Lord introduced himself to Samuel and Samuel responded. From that day on Samuel spent his energy serving the Lord. There were many things to test Samuel’s faith and patience, but he was faithful to the Lord without reservation. When you get to know the Lord as He reveals Himself to you through the Scriptures, be a Samuel and follow the Lord faithfully. You’ll never regret it and there will be a reward for you when you get to heaven.

Abel

HEB 11:4

By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain.

Hebrews 11:4

The Scriptures don’t tell us, but somehow Abel knew that the shedding of blood in a sacrifice would be acceptable to God. Perhaps his parents knew from the animals that God killed in order to clothe them after they had sinned. But one thing is sure: Abel had faith, and his faith was rewarded. He lost his life shortly after he offered his sacrifice to God. He was the first one of the human race to die, and I’m sure we’ll see Abel in heaven. He was covered by the blood of Christ. Are you?

The Cross

HEB 12:2

Looking unto Jesus. . . who. . . endured the cross.

Hebrews 12:2

Jesus is the only way of salvation. We must look to Him. And for each of us who are saved, today is a good day to look to Him with praise and thanksgiving for enduring the cross. He was willing to die on Calvary’s cross so that we could be set free and have an eternal home in heaven. Let’s remember the cross today and the suffering that Jesus endured there for us.

Service

DAN 6:16

Thy God whom thou servest continually, He will deliver thee.

Daniel 6:16

Daniel served God faithfully all his life. We don’t know how old Daniel was when he was taken as a captive to Babylon, but he was probably quite young. It wasn’t that he did any great work for God or preached great sermons. But he was faithful to the Lord regardless of what went on around him. And he wasn’t afraid to stand for his convictions. God rewarded him and did indeed deliver him in his greatest time of need. Let us learn a lesson from Daniel. We can serve the Lord by being dedicated to Him in faithful obedience to His Word.

Enoch

HEB 11:5

By faith Enoch was translated that he should not see death.

Hebrews 11:5

Hey, d’you know what? This will probably be true of us too. We who are Christians will be translated so that we will not pass through death. How? By the Lord Himself descending from heaven with a shout and snatching us away from this world and taking us to heaven. What a thrill it will be! Maybe today!

Ownership

1SA 30:13

And David said unto him, To whom belongest thou?

1 Samuel 30:13

This is a question that I want to ask you. Who do you belong to? Is it Jesus, or Satan? It has to be one or the other. And you are the only one who can change your ownership. We want you to give your heart to the Lord Jesus Christ, to own Him Lord of your life. If you haven’t made that commitment yet, will you do it today? You’ll be glad you did.

Fear

MAT 17:7

And Jesus came and touched them, and said, Arise, and be not afraid.

Matthew 17:7

How wonderful to feel the hand of Jesus on your shoulder, and His voice saying, “Don’t be afraid.” Peter, James and John were scared to pieces at what they had just seen and heard. It was supernatural and they couldn’t understand it. But Jesus calmed their fears with the touch of His hand. Are you afraid of anything? Let Jesus touch you and take the fear away.

Life

JOH 17:3

This is life eternal, that they might know Thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom Thou hast sent.

John 17:3

This chapter begins with the Lord Jesus lifting up His eyes to heaven and praying to His Father. Our verse is one of the first things that He says. He gives the formula for eternal life: to know the one true God, and His only Son, the Lord Jesus Christ. Get to know them both today by becoming a Christian. Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be saved.

Religion

1SA 4:3

Let us fetch the ark . . . of the Lord . . . it may save us.

1 Samuel 4:3

This is a classic example of man using religion to save himself. It can’t be done. No amount of devout, religious activity will gain an entrance to heaven. Only God could save Israel if they called to Him for help. Trusting in the ark was useless. So for us today. Trusting in church- going, good works, or kindness to your neighbor will NOT get you a place in heaven. Trusting in Jesus as your Savior will.

Peace

COL 1:20

Having made peace through the blood of His cross.

Colossians 1:20

Jesus has made peace for us with God through the shedding of His blood on Calvary’s cross. Today we can spend a few minutes from our busy lives to think about Calvary and the Lord’s death there. The blood that He shed on the cross washes away every stain of sin and makes us fit to be in God’s holy presence in heaven.

Oh, the peace forever flowing
From God’s thoughts of His own Son.
Oh, the peace of simply knowing
On the cross that all was done.

Cost

2SA 24:24

Neither will I offer burnt offerings . . . of that which doth cost me nothing. So David bought the threshingfloor and the oxen for fifty shekels of silver.

2 Samuel 24:24

David had sinned and caused a plague to come upon Israel. He was told to go to a certain place and offer a sacrifice to the Lord so that the plague would stop. David arrives at the place and the owner wanted to give David everything he needed for the sacrifice, but David refused to accept it. He wanted to feel the cost of the sacrifice. So he finally buys what is required for 50 shekels of silver. God much prefers our sacrifices when they cost us something. When we give from an abundance that costs us nothing, the sacrifice doesn’t mean as much as it does when we have to put some effort into what we give.

No Fault

DAN 6:4

They could find none occasion nor fault; forasmuch as [Daniel] was faithful, neither was there any error or fault found in him.

Daniel 6:4

Wow, this is some commendation! Daniel’s enemies could find absolutely nothing against him in any area of his life. His life was faultless. And that’s the challenge for the Christian - to live a life that is faultless. What was Daniel’s secret? He was faithful to the Lord. And that will be the secret of our faultless life too. The Apostle Paul says in Titus 2, “Showing thyself a pattern of good works . . . that he that is of the contrary part [the unbeliever] may be ashamed, having no evil thing to say of you.”

Understanding

PRO 28:5

They that seek the Lord understand all things.

Proverbs 28:5

Interesting verse. What does it mean? The beginning of the verse says, “Evil men understand not judgment.” That is, the unsaved are often blind to true justice. But the Christian who is filled with the Spirit, and is exercised concerning the Lord’s glory, is able to make good and just decisions in the light of God’s Word. It doesn’t mean that all of a sudden you know all the answers to everything. But you have access by faith to the Creator of the universe and He does know everything.

Witchcraft

1SA 28:6-7

When Saul inquired of the Lord, the Lord answered him not. . . . Then said Saul . . . Seek me a woman that hath a familiar spirit.

1 Samuel 28:6, 7

Sometimes the Lord doesn’t answer our prayers right away. Does that mean that we should go to Satan’s realm to get our answers? Absolutely not! The Lord is testing our faith, or our perseverance in prayer, or both. He just wants us to wait. Of course Saul here was not a true child of God and so when one avenue didn’t work he tried another. He used witchcraft. Be careful, young believer. Satan can make his tricks look like the real thing. His ministers can change themselves into angels of light. Spend lots of time with the Lord. He hears you every time you pray. He may choose not to answer just yet. But He will.

Live for Jesus

2CO 5:15

He died for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves.

2 Corinthians 5:15

Who are the “they who live”? It’s believers in the Lord Jesus. He came to give life and to give it more abundantly. Jesus died for us. And because He did, we shouldn’t be living exclusively for ourselves anymore, but we should be living for Him. He is our Lord and King. We are His servants. We should be living like servants just waiting for the desire of our Lord to be made known to us so that we can do it for Him. Are you living for Christ?

Security

JOS 2:18-21

When we come into the land . . . bind this . . . scarlet thread in the window. . . . And she bound the scarlet line in the window.

Joshua 2:18, 21

Rahab was safe! Read carefully verses 18-21. Notice that Rahab didn’t need to tie the thread in the window until Israel crossed the river into the land. But Rahab tied it in place as soon as she had sent the spies away. Why didn’t she wait? She believed the message the spies brought, she had faith, she put her faith into action, and she let her faith show. Good lesson for us, huh? Rahab planned for the future while she had the chance. We trust that each one reading this is ready for eternity.

Righteous

2CO 5:21

For He hath made Him to be sin for us . . . that we might be made the righteousness of God in Him.

2 Corinthians 5:21

Our righteousness depends ENTIRELY on the fact that Jesus bore our sins at Calvary. God made Jesus bear the punishment for our sins, even though He Himself was sinless and could not sin. But God made Him to be sin for us. God punished Jesus just as if He had sinned. Then God made us perfectly righteous in Him. And we don’t have to do anything except believe on the Lord Jesus Christ. Isn’t it wonderful?

Service

TIT 3:8

I will . . . that they which have believed in God might be careful to maintain good works.

Titus 3:8

We are to maintain (or continue to do) good works. It’s not a question of doing one good deed and then patting ourselves on the back and thinking we’ve done our service for the Lord. No, we need to maintain good works. That is, our works of kindness and goodness to others should continue as a regular feature of our lives. This is just one way in which we can witness to others that we belong to the Lord. We are really doing just what Jesus would do if He were here.

Worry

DAN 6:18

The king went to his palace, and passed the night fasting . . . and his sleep went from him.

Daniel 6:18

King Darius was a worried man. And he had reason to be. He had just signed into law a rule that got one of his top officers into an awful fix. Daniel was his most trusted advisor. Now he was destined to be thrown to the lions. And all because of Darius’s pride. No wonder he spent the night pacing the floor. But God was looking out for Daniel and saved him from a rather violent end. And it taught Darius a very big lesson. It’s great when we learn a lesson from our mistakes.

Reproof

PRO 29:1

He, that being often reproved hardeneth his neck, shall suddenly be destroyed.

Proverbs 29:1

Hey, listen. How many times have you been warned about something and you’ve ignored the warning? If you are not a Christian, I am warning you one more time that Jesus is coming soon. And if He comes before you soften up a bit and accept the gospel, you will suddenly be destroyed. And there will be NO REMEDY. Eternity in the lake of fire. Please listen to the gospel. Accept Jesus today before it’s too late.

Noah

HEB 11:7

By faith Noah . . . prepared an ark to the saving of his house.

Hebrews 11:7

God told Noah to do something that, to the natural intellect, was absolutely crazy. Build a huge boat in the middle of a field with no water for miles? Surely there must be a mistake. He must not have heard right. But faith believes the impossible because with God all things are possible - as Noah and the rest of the world found out. God provided plenty of water to float the ark. And the only ones who believed were Noah and his family. Faith is always rewarded.

Abraham

HEB 11:8

By faith Abraham, when he was called . . . obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went.

Hebrews 11:8

Here’s another man who had absolute faith in what God said. He had no idea where he was going or what he would do when he got there (wherever “there” was). But he went anyway. And he was richly blessed of God. In fact, Abraham is called “the friend of God” in the Bible. Isn’t that something - to be called God’s friend? Why was he so close to God? Because he believed God and it was counted to him for righteousness. Believe God - it pays off.

The Last Days

2TI 3:1

In the last days perilous times shall come.

2 Timothy 3:1

If ever there were perilous times, it’s now. Towards the end of 1992 there were 1,000 people a day dying in Somalia because they had no food. There are wars and uprisings in country after country. The financial stability of most countries of the world is in shambles. Dictators rule with cruelty and heartlessness. The gang fights and murders in the U.S. alone boggle your mind. And you think the world is getting better? The new world order that ex-President Bush always talked about isn’t something that looks too good. No, young Christian. This world is doomed. We are indeed in “the last times.”

Rich

2CO 8:9

Our Lord Jesus Christ . . . though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, that ye . . . might be rich.

2 Corinthians 8:9

The Lord Jesus Christ, God’s only Son, maker of everything, gave up the glory of heaven, and became a poor man who had no comforts here, so that we might inherit the riches of heaven. Why? Because He loved us so much. It’s the most incredible love story ever told. And when we believe on Him as our Lord and Savior, we become the heirs of salvation. All the riches of heaven are now ours. Let’s praise Him today for His wonderful love.

Service

2TI 4:5

Do the work of an evangelist.

2 Timothy 4:5

Not all Christians have been given the gift of being able to preach the gospel. But if you feel it in your heart at all to preach, do it. The Lord wants you to preach for Him. Thirty years ago the well-known evangelist Billy Graham stood in an empty stadium in Moscow, Russia, and asked the Lord to allow him to preach the gospel there. In October, 1992, his prayer was answered and he preached to a capacity crowd that overflowed outside the enormous stadium. May God encourage you to do the work of an evangelist.

Disobedience

1CH 10:13

So Saul died for his transgression . . . against the word of the Lord, which he kept not.

1 Chronicles 10:13

Saul sinned a double sin and God took his life. The first major sin that he committed was the sin of disobedience. That’s what got Adam and Eve into trouble. And that’s what gets everyone into trouble if they won’t believe the gospel. Those who reject the gospel are really being disobedient to God, who now commands all men everywhere to repent. The end result of disobedience to God is death. We pray that everyone who reads this calendar has made a decision for Christ. You’ll never regret it.

Rich/Poor

PRO 28:6

Better is the poor that walketh in his uprightness, than he that is perverse in his ways, though he be rich.

Proverb 28:6

Riches may seem like a great thing to have, but how much better it is to have a clear conscience before the Lord, and live an upright Christian life even though you have little in this world, than to be corrupt and rich. An unsaved friend of mine who is a doctor of psychology once told me that he didn’t know how some people could sleep at night with a clear conscience because of the way they cheated in order to gain riches. Be content. Let the Lord take care of your needs. He’ll always provide for His own.

Immorality

PRO 7:24

Hearken unto me now therefore, O ye children, and attend to the words of my mouth.

Proverbs 7:24

Read Proverbs 7:6-27. Solomon gave a grave warning of the dangers of an immoral life style, and I repeat it today to you. Premarital sex is absolutely forbidden by the Lord. It leads to all kinds of difficulties and sorrows that you will not have if you keep yourself pure. Be careful! Satan will try to trip you up if he can. As it says in verse 21, “With her much fair speech she caused him to yield, with the flattering of her lips she forced him.” Young believer, keep your heart with all diligence.

Witchcraft

1CH 10:13

So Saul died for his transgression . . . against the Lord . . . for asking counsel of one that had a familiar spirit.

1 Chronicles 10:13

When I was at college, some students conducted a séance. The message spelled out told one student that his father had died several years before of cancer. The reality and power of the evil spirits involved in this séance so scared the student that he went to a Christian friend of mine who counseled him all night to try and calm him down. Satan is REAL, young people. Don’t get involved in any form of witchcraft. God took Saul’s life because of it. He certainly cannot bless you if you talk to spirits instead of to Him.

Worry

MAT 6:32

Your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things.

Matthew 6:32

What things? Food, drink and clothing. Things that we worry about - sometimes. Why do we worry? Because we don’t have faith and are not fully trusting in our Father to provide. He knows that we have need of these things before they become a problem for us. And instead of us trusting Him to provide, we worry - needlessly. Let’s pray to the Lord that He will help our faith to become strong so that we won’t worry about things that we don’t need to worry about.

Exaltation

ACT 2:36

God hath made . . . Jesus . . . both Lord and Christ.

Acts 2:36

God is completely satisfied with the work that His Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, did at Calvary. Because Jesus was willing to bear the punishment for our sins and go into death as a result, God has highly exalted Him and given Him a name that is above every name. Now Jesus has been exalted to the highest place in heaven. He has been made both Lord and Christ. Today it is our privilege to spend a little time remembering what it cost for Jesus to become obedient unto death.

Service

1CH 9:30

And some of the sons of the priests made the ointment of spices.

1 Chronicles 9:30

There is always something very noticeable when you walk into most of the large department stores. Perfume! (Notice how they put the perfume counters right near the entrance?) The effects of those that make the perfumes are felt by all who enter the store. So too for our service. The effect of service well done for Christ will be noticed by others. It will ascend to heaven, too, as a smell of spices will fill a room. Keep working for the Lord. You don’t have much time left.

Friends

PRO 22:24

Make no friendship with an angry man; and with a furious man thou shalt not go.

Proverbs 22:24

Why did Solomon suggest this? If I’m a Christian, won’t my Christianity “rub off” on my friend so that he will be able to control his anger? No. The next verse says: “Lest thou learn his ways, and get a snare to thy soul.” You see, our old nature is VERY strong. And it falls into sin extremely easily. The Apostle Paul puts it this way: “Evil communications [or associations] corrupt good manners.” In other words, it will be the Christian who fails by keeping bad company, not the unsaved becoming good. Choose your friends prayerfully.

Deliverance

2TI 4:18

And the Lord shall deliver me from every evil work.

2 Timothy 4:18

This is a certain fact. It’s not that the Lord is capable of delivering me, if He chooses to. It’s not that He might, but that He WILL deliver me. The Lord is watching out for you all the time. I marvel sometimes at the way I have been preserved from harm and danger over and over again. And He will preserve us from evil until He comes again to take us to His perfect home. The Lord taught His disciples to pray. And one of the things He told them to pray for was: “Deliver us from evil.” Do you pray that? You should. Jesus is the only One who can do that and He will.

Fear

1CH 13:12

And David was afraid of God that day.

1 Chronicles 13:12

David had just seen the holiness of God come into action when an unauthorized Israelite reached out and touched the ark of God. God struck him down, immediately. That frightened David. But God had a lesson in the death of Uzza that David had to learn. Later David retrieved the ark in the God-appointed way. In the letter to the Hebrews in the New Testament the writer says that “God is a consuming fire.” And, “it is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.” If you have trusted in the Lord Jesus Christ, though, there is no fear in approaching God. Trust in Jesus today, if you have not already done so.

Riches

PRO 21:17

He that loveth pleasure shall be a poor man: he that loveth wine and oil shall not be rich.

Proverbs 21:17

The pleasures and drinks of this world cost lots of money and there is no return on investment. It costs $30 for one person to get into Disneyworld or other places like that. Sure, you have some fun for a day, but at the end of the day you’re $30 poorer. But when you accept the free gift of God’s love, the Lord Jesus Christ, and live to please Him, it costs you nothing. Instead, you become an heir to all the glories of heaven. You start to build up treasures in heaven, treasures which do not lose their value. It’s so much more sensible to invest in the Bank of Heaven, than to spend, spend, spend for things of the world which will all pass away.

Prayer

MAT 7:7

Ask, and it shall be given you.

Matthew 7:7

Do you know why sometimes we don’t ask the Lord for things? Because we don’t have the faith that He will answer us. Do you know why, when we do ask for things, we don’t get them? The Apostle James says that it’s because we ask for things for our own pleasure and not for God’s glory. Let’s be really considerate of the Lord when we ask for things. Yes, let’s ask - He wants us to. But be sensitive to the leading of the Spirit in your life so that you ask according to God’s will.

Praise

EZR 3:11

And they sang together by course in praising and giving thanks unto the Lord.

Ezra 3:11

Great rejoicing was heard in Jerusalem because the foundation of the house of the Lord had just been laid. Those who were enjoying the Lord’s goodness to them praised Him for that goodness. Today is another day available to us for praising the Lord. He has loved us with such a love that He willingly died for us at Calvary. Let our rejoicing be heard as we sing hymns of praise today to God’s Son, our Lord Jesus Christ.

Service

1CH 9:32

The sons of the Kohathites, were over the showbread, to prepare it every Sabbath.

1 Chronicles 9:32

Here’s a service for the Lord that’s probably unnoticed by everyone. Someone made the loaf that is used on the table at the remembrance of the Lord. For those of you who have ever made bread the long way (from scratch), you’ll appreciate that it’s quite a job. The Lord appreciates this special service for Him. Everything that is done for Him is noticed by Him and He will reward for it. Keep serving. God sees.

Marriage

PRO 21:19

It is better to dwell in the wilderness, than with a contentious and an angry woman.

Proverbs 21:19

There’s not really much to add to this, is there? Just be careful, young brother. Choose carefully and prayerfully. Marriage is for a lifetime. Don’t make the wrong choice.

Prayer

1CH 14:10

And David inquired of God, saying, Shall I go up? . . . And the Lord said unto him, Go up.

1 Chronicles 14:10

David knew the Lord too well to do anything without asking Him first. Perhaps we should say that David knew his own heart and that it was foolish to not ask the Lord for guidance. We can learn from David here and ask the Lord for His guidance in every step. Ask Him about college, about a career, about a wife or a husband. He will guide you right - if you let Him.

Riches

PRO 22:4

By humility and the fear of the Lord are riches, and honor, and life.

Proverbs 22:4

Do you want the very best that life can give? Of course you do. You are taught at school that you can attain anything you set your mind to. Hold it! Not so! This is a deception by Satan. The Lord can give you anything He wants to give, but you can’t attain anything unless the Lord helps you to do it. Put the Lord first in ALL THINGS. Then you will get the very best out of life. Without Him - you have nothing.

Riches

1TI 6:17-18

Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not high-minded . . . that they be rich in good works.

1 Timothy 6:17, 18

God doesn’t care that you’re rich, that your bank account is overflowing. But He does care if you don’t use yourself in service to others. Riches mean nothing to Him who created all things. He wants our hearts. He wants us to be dedicated in His service, which includes doing good to others. God faithfully warns the rich people here not to trust in their riches. The only thing of any certainty is heaven and the treasure there. Make sure you’re building on it.

God First

MAT 6:33

Seek ye first the kingdom of God.

Matthew 6:33

The Lord’s desire for each of us is that we would seek Him and His righteousness first; that we would put Him ahead of everything. In the rush and responsibilities of daily life we often put the Lord on the back burner. Don’t neglect the Lord in your life. Spend some time every day talking to Him, reading His Word, and listening to Him. Put Him first in everything.

Praise

1CH 13:8

And David and all Israel played before God with all their might, and with singing.

1 Chronicles 13:8

David was happy. The ark of God was finally being taken back to Israel. His happiness overflowed to his people and there was great rejoicing. Our personal enjoyment of the Lord will have a profound effect on others around us. As we come together today to thank God for Calvary, let’s examine our hearts beforehand to make sure that there’s nothing that will hinder our praise to Jesus for what He did to save us.

Service

MAT 9:9

Jesus ... saw ... Matthew ... and He saith unto him, Follow Me.

Matthew 9:9

Matthew’s service for Christ started here by his willingness to follow the Lord’s call. This is a challenge to each of us. Are we willing to respond to the Lord’s call to follow? We must be willing to follow if He is going to be able to send us forth in service. When Jesus calls, do you respond?

Judging Others

MAT 7:1

Judge not, that ye be not judged.

Matthew 7:1

I have a really bad habit of judging a situation from how it appears to me - before I know the facts. We are told by the Lord to not judge other people. We are very fickle-minded and judge others by our standard. And our standard may be way off base as far as the Lord is concerned. We each have to give an account of ourselves to God. So let’s judge ourselves and leave others alone.

Blessing

1CH 13:14

And the Lord blessed the house of Obed-edom, and all that he had.

1 Chronicles 13:14

The ark had temporarily been put into Obed-edom’s house because of a problem in its transportation. And because Obed-edom was willing to use his home as a refuge for the ark, the Lord blessed him and his house. The Lord will honor those that honor Him. He will repay you for any kindness you do for Him. Don’t be afraid to give to Him. After all, He gave everything for you.

Chosen

2TH 2:13

God hath . . . chosen you to salvation.

2 Thessalonians 2:13

Isn’t this wonderful? It’s not a chance happening that you got saved. God chose you. You have been handpicked by God to be with Him in heaven.

Jesus! How I praise Him.
And I’ll praise Him for eternity.
Jesus! How I thank Him.
How I thank Him for choosing me.

Freedom

PSA 146:7

The Lord looseth the prisoners.

Psalm 146:7

Are you a prisoner of sin? Is there something in your life that is binding you up so that you don’t (or can’t) produce fruit for God? The Lord looses the prisoners. He can set you free. He can help you overcome. He alone can give you the victory. A cry from a true heart will not be unheard. Jesus is waiting for you to call on Him. Do it now.

Confession

MAT 16:15-16

Whom say ye that I am? . . . Thou art the Christ.

Matthew 16:15, 16

What a confession! Peter was convinced that Jesus was the anointed One, sent from God to be the Savior of the world. How about you? You too have to respond to the Lord’s question, “Who do you say that I am?” What is your response? In order to gain entrance to heaven you must believe that Jesus is the Christ, and that He died for you on the cross at Calvary to put away your sins forever. No other confession is good enough. As the Apostle Paul says in Romans, “If you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.” Romans 10:9 N.K.J.V

Praise

PSA 148:12-13

Both young men, and maidens; old men, and children: let them praise the name of the Lord.

Psalm 148:12, 13

We don’t praise enough. Here is a call for all age levels to praise the Lord. Today is a good day to do that. Today we can spend a little time remembering what it cost the Lord Jesus to redeem us. We can remember Calvary and those three hours of darkness when Jesus paid the price for sin. And this should cause us to praise Him for His goodness and love.

What a Savior Jesus is;
Everlasting praise be His.

Servant

HEB 3:5

And Moses verily was faithful in all his house, as a servant.

Hebrews 3:5

Moses was an incredible person. He was the unquestioned leader of a couple million Israelites as they travelled around the desert for 40 years. And yet he is counted as a servant. He served God. His service was hard and frustrating. It was so frustrating that the people finally bugged him enough that he became angry and disobeyed God in doing so. But in spite of that, he was a faithful servant. He served God without wavering for 40 years. What an example.

Depression

PSA 146:8

The Lord raiseth them that are bowed down.

Psalm 146:8

Are you bowed down, depressed? Is something bothering you so much that life is not worth living? WAIT! The Lord raises them that are bowed down. Try Jesus. Cast your care on Him - He really does care for you. I know that you’re having a hard time right now, and I can’t possibly understand what you’re going through, but I know that Jesus has the power to heal you. Just give Him a chance. He completely cured a man who was totally demon-possessed. The demons all left when Jesus gave the command. Let His power fill you and let Him take control of your life.

Unworthy

MAT 8:8

I am not worthy that Thou shouldest come under my roof.

Matthew 8:8

Here is a man who knew who Jesus was. Even though the speaker in our verse was a man of authority, he recognized in the Lord Jesus a higher authority than himself. He didn’t even think that he was worthy for Jesus to come into his house. Let us never forget who Jesus is. He is our Friend and Savior, yes. But He is also God, and we must always treat Him like that.

Happiness

PSA 146:5

Happy is he . . . whose hope is in the Lord his God.

Psalm 146:5

There is nothing in which to place our hope that will bring permanent happiness. Nothing, that is, except in the Lord Jesus Christ. He is the solid Rock that is unchanging and unchangeable. He has promised to be with us and He will not forsake us. He has promised that He will come again and take us personally to heaven. This hope produces real happiness in the believer’s heart.

Unworthy

JOH 1:27

He it is . . . whose shoe latchet I am not worthy to unloose.

John 1:27

Here’s another man who recognized his own nothingness before Jesus. John the Baptist was the Lord’s second cousin. Surely they could have been considered to be at the same level? No! John states emphatically that he was not even worthy to undo the Lord’s sandal. Never forget, young Christian, who Jesus is. He is God. We must show respect.

Giants

1CH 20:8

These [giants] were born unto the giant in Gath; and they fell by the hand of David, and by the hand of his servants.

1 Chronicles 20:8

You may remember how Goliath scared the Israelites. Only David was not afraid and he met the giant’s challenge and killed him. Some years later, during more wars with the same people, some of David’s servants killed Goliath’s descendants. Do you see how the faith of one person can have an effect on others? You may have a giant in your life. Consider how other Christians won their battle against a similar problem and put your faith into action.

Worship

MAT 9:18

There came a certain ruler, and worshipped Him.

Matthew 9:18

Worship! The out-flowing of a heart to the Lord, recognizing who He is. The man in our verse today worshipped the Lord. We can too - not only for who He is but also for what He has done. Remember Calvary. Remember the suffering because of our sins that were laid on Him. Let your heart respond today in praise and worship.

Service

1CH 29:8

And they with whom precious stones were found gave them.

1 Chronicles 29:8

I’ve heard some say, “But I don’t have any talent.” Have you got anything valuable? Give it - in service. These folks gave precious stones to be used to build the temple. You are a precious stone in God’s sight. Give yourself. It is the most precious thing you own. The Lord can use you if you are willing to be used.

Leadership/Influence

2CH 24:2

And Joash did that which was right in the sight of the Lord all the days of Jehoiada the priest.

2 Chronicles 24:2

We DO have an effect on others. There are two kinds of people in the world. Those who lead, and those who follow. If you are a leader, let your Christian testimony be such that followers will do right. Be an influence for good. If you are a follower - follow that which is good. There’s nothing wrong with being a follower. It’s who you follow that will make or break you.

Value

LUK 12:7

Ye are of more value than many sparrows.

Luke 12:7

In God’s sight we are precious. We are of great value. If you are one of those who run themselves down and say things like, “I’m useless,” “I’ll never amount to anything,” “I wish I’d never been born,” just remember that God loves you and cares for your every need. He thinks you are something special. If God notices when one little sparrow falls to the ground, you can be sure that He notices and cares about you.

Touch

MAT 8:15

And He touched her hand, and the fever left her.

Matthew 8:15

Jesus often touched people. The gentle, loving, caring touch of His hand brought healing, restored sight, raised the dead. He was personally involved in people’s suffering. Just remember, young friend, that Jesus is just as concerned about you in your problem as He was about the woman in our verse today. By faith feel the touch of His hand and know that He is near.

Sickness

2CH 16:12

And Asa . . . was diseased in his feet . . . yet in his disease he sought not to the Lord, but to the physicians.

2 Chronicles 16:12

How like Asa we are. We get sick and instead of calling on the Lord first, we wait until nothing else has worked. Read yesterday’s message to see the healing power when the Lord touches a sick person. Do you think His power is less now than it was when He was on earth? Of course not! Don’t forget to go to the Lord about everything. He may choose to heal you through a medical doctor, but at least go to Him first.

No Confidence

EXO 3:10-11

I will send thee unto Pharaoh. . . . Who am I?

Exodus 3:10, 11

Poor Moses. God is sending him on the mission of a lifetime. He was to lead all the Israelites out of Egypt, away from the cruelty of a dictator and into their own land. But Moses has no confidence in himself. In some respects this is good. But the problem was that God told him to go and Moses tried to make excuse. We must have confidence in God that, when He sends us to do something, He will help us in spite of our weaknesses.

Worship

1SA 1:28

And he worshipped the Lord there.

1 Samuel 1:28

The faith of one caused worship, spontaneous worship, in another. Eli had just been loaned a helper for the work of the temple. Young Samuel had been given to the Lord’s service by his mother. Eli worships. Perhaps God had answered an often-repeated prayer. Eli’s response was to worship. God loves our worship. Let’s worship Him today.

Service

EXO 35:25

And all the women that were wise-hearted did spin with their hands.

Exodus 35:25

The Lord gave these women a particular skill so that they could make cloth to be used in the tabernacle. He has given you a skill too. It may be with your hands, it may be in other ways. But whatever it is, He wants you to use it for Him. These women worked in private, but the results of their work were on display for all to see.

Friendship

RUT 2:8

Go not to glean in another field.

Ruth 2:8

Who are your friends? Are they Christians? Friendships can be either for good or for bad. And it’s not always true that Christian friends will keep you out of the world. But Christian fellowship is vitally important to healthy Christian growth. So don’t get your pleasures and friends from the world. It can only lead to trouble and heartache. Glean in God’s field, not Satan’s.

Evil

2CH 36:9

Jehoiachin was eight years old . . . and he did . . . evil in the sight of the Lord.

2 Chronicles 36:9

You don’t have to be very old before you do things that are dishonoring to God. Jehoiachin was only eight when he became king and the Bible puts on record that he did evil in the sight of the Lord. That’s pretty sad. Let’s pray for each other so that we will be kept from dishonoring the Lord in our lives.

The Heart

PRO 28:26 JER 17:9

He that trusteth in his own heart is a fool.

Proverbs 28:26

The heart is deceitful above all things.

Jeremiah 17:9

So you don’t think you can do something wicked? Dream on! Don’t trust in your own heart. As Jeremiah said, it’s “deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked.” You can actually take something that is wrong and persuade yourself that it is right. Then you can do it without a bad conscience. That’s how wicked your heart is. Trust in the Lord - don’t trust in yourself.

Faith

MAT 9:21

If I may but touch His garment, I shall be whole.

Matthew 9:21

The heart of faith is shown here. A lady had been sick for twelve years and spent everything on doctors to get a cure but rather got worse. The stories of Jesus’ healing power reached her and her response was, “If I may but touch . . . ” So she did - the hem of His coat. And she was healed. Faith is rewarded.

Control

PRO 29:11

A fool uttereth all his mind.

Proverbs 29:11

Sometimes keeping quiet shows wisdom. There are some folks who have a great deal to say about everything, even though they don’t know what they are talking about. One great lesson to learn is the art of self-control, to be able to control our tongue. You don’t need to talk all the time. Give it a rest. Let someone else have a turn. And anyway, some thoughts are better left unsaid.

Rejected

LUK 19:14

We will not have this Man to reign over us.

Luke 19:14

When Jesus was born, Herod, the Gentile king, killed all boys two years old and under in the Bethlehem area to try to get rid of Him. During Jesus’ life a crowd of people tried to push Him over a cliff. On another occasion they picked up stones to stone Him. When Pilate wanted to release Jesus, the people demanded that He be crucified. Yes, Jesus was indeed rejected, cast out and killed by His own people. Now we have a chance to do the opposite. We can show our acceptance of Him by remembering Him.

Service

MAT 25:20

Thou deliveredst unto me five talents: behold, I have gained beside them five talents more.

Matthew 25:20

What are you doing with your talents? Okay, so maybe you’ve only got one. What are you doing with it? God wants you to use it - for Him. If you bury your gift under a cloak of study, or work, or laziness, your gift will go to waste and the Lord will probably use someone else to do what He wanted you to do. Be like the servant in our verse today and use your talent for God.

Help

2CH 20:4

And Judah gathered themselves together, to ask help of the Lord.

2 Chronicles 20:4

Great trouble was brewing for Judah. Their worst enemies were preparing to attack and the children of Judah didn’t know what to do. Encouraged by their king, they all gathered together to ask the Lord for help. God heard their cry for help, He saw them praising Him, He heard words honoring Him, and He sent help. Their enemies destroyed themselves by fighting and killing each other. Help does come when you ask for it.

Prayer

1SA 8:21

And Samuel heard all the words of the people, and he rehearsed them in the ears of the Lord.

1 Samuel 8:21

The Israelites asked Samuel to give them a king. Samuel listened to their reasons and then he went to the Lord and told Him all about it. He was somewhat surprised at the Lord’s answer. Do it! The people had rejected the Lord and wanted to be like the rest of the nations in the world. Samuel was upset at the people, but he did what the Lord said. It’s great to have someone to turn to when we don’t know what to do. The Lord wants us to confide in Him. Tell Him all about it. He cares.

Unknown

MAT 25:11-12

Lord, Lord, open to us. But He answered . . . I know you not.

Matthew 25:11, 12

I think those four words that the Lord will say over and over again to those that get shut out of heaven must be the saddest words that He has to utter. “I don’t know you.” Why? They looked like Christians, they acted like Christians. But on the inside they had never accepted Jesus as their Lord and Savior.

Repentance

LUK 22:61-62

And the Lord turned, and looked upon Peter. And Peter remembered . . . and wept bitterly.

Luke 22:61, 62

Peter had just broken his promise to the Lord. He had said that he would never deny the Lord Jesus. But when the situation he was in got too tough, he did deny that he knew Jesus. He seemed to have forgotten that he even made the promise. Then when Jesus turned and looked at him, his conscience was activated, he remembered the terrible thing he had done and he wept bitterly. Peter was truly repentant. That’s what the Lord wants from us too when we sin: true repentance. Then communion is restored and we can enjoy fellowship with the Lord again.

Poor and Rich

JAM 2:5

Hath not God chosen the poor of this world rich in faith.

James 2:5

Yes, there are many in this world who are both poor and rich at the same time. That seems impossible, doesn’t it? But it’s true. There are many Christians who have very little of the riches of this world - some have none at all. But they have a heart full of the riches of heaven because they trust in Jesus. God rewards faith and the wealth of heaven belongs to those that believe in the Lord Jesus Christ, even though they may have nothing here. Are you rich in faith?

Perfect

LUK 23:4

Then said Pilate to the chief priests and to the people, I find no fault in this Man.

Luke 23:4

Of course Pilate couldn’t. There was no fault to find. Jesus was a perfect man. He never thought or did anything wrong. He couldn’t, because He was (and is) God, and God can’t sin. But the people didn’t care and they demanded the Lord’s crucifixion anyway, because they didn’t want Him. His presence had shown them how evil they were and they wanted to shut out the witness to their wickedness. So Jesus died on Calvary that day, and through His death we can be cleansed from our sins and be perfect in His sight.

Service

1SA 2:18

But Samuel ministered before the Lord, being a child.

1 Samuel 2:18

You are never too young to serve the Lord. Your particular gift may not be fully developed yet but the point is that if you are willing to serve the Lord, He will use you. One of our problems is that we are too busy doing our own business to be bothered making ourselves available for the Lord to use. Whatever age you are, make it your prayer to the Lord that you are available for Him to use, how and when He wants to.

Faithfulness

2CH 27:6

So Jotham became mighty, because he prepared his ways before the Lord his God.

2 Chronicles 27:6

Jotham had discovered a secret that we all need to discover. If you put the Lord and His things first, He will take care of you. Jotham prepared his ways before God and God in turn made Jotham mighty. Now, don’t get the idea that you will be famous if you give the Lord first place. Your name may never be known outside your immediate circle of family and friends. But there will be a great blessing in your personal life and for all eternity if you give Jesus first place now.

Rejecting the Lord

2CH 12:14

He did evil, because he prepared not his heart to seek the Lord.

2 Chronicles 12:14

What a contrast to yesterday’s verse. Here is a man who would not put the Lord first. In fact, he didn’t include the Lord in any of his plans. And it says of him that he did evil. How much better to seek to please the Lord and to live for Him than to be classed as doing evil. All evil-doers end up in a lost eternity. Put Jesus first in your life. You will not regret it.

Your Heart

HEB 3:10

They do always err in their heart; and they have not known My ways.

Hebrews 3:10

This is said of God’s earthly people, the Jews. But the same could be said of anyone who makes a profession of belonging to God, when, in fact, they don’t know Him at all because they have never put their faith and trust in the Lord Jesus. God knows your heart. You can’t cover up in front of Him. How does he read you - as knowing Him or still as an unsaved sinner?

Violence

GEN 6:11

The earth also was corrupt before God; and the earth was filled with violence.

Genesis 6:11

This sounds like today, doesn’t it? But it’s talking about the world in Noah’s time, almost 5,000 years ago. What happened then? God judged the world and destroyed it with a flood. And our world is ready for the final judgment of God, one of fire, that He will pour out on this place that is so filled with violence. Make sure that you are safe by trusting the Lord Jesus Christ before God’s judgment falls.

Memorization

DEU 6:8

And thou shalt bind them for a sign upon thine hand, and they shall be as frontlets between thine eyes.

Deuteronomy 6:8

Memorization of Scripture is so important. When you are young it’s pretty easy. As you get older, not only can you not memorize as well (or at all) but you tend to forget what you have memorized. But memorizing the Scriptures, that are able to make you wise concerning salvation, is VERY important. You will not be wasting your time. Try picking out several of the more well-known verses to start with and remember them and their references. It will pay off. I was impressed recently listening to a young brother preach the gospel. He quoted over 60 Scripture passages. Memorize!

Praise

JAM 5:13

Is any merry? let him sing psalms.

James 5:13

Praise is very acceptable to God. He delights to hear us speak and sing well of His Son our Lord Jesus Christ. Are you happy? Then sing praises to the Savior. Today is a good day to do just that especially as we remember Him in His death at Calvary. We can praise Him for all that is past, and trust Him for all that’s to come.

Service

MAT 25:22

Thou deliveredst unto me two talents: behold, I have gained two other talents beside them.

Matthew 25:22

Never grumble because you aren’t as good at something as someone else is. How good you are doesn’t matter. What does matter is whether you use what you have for the Lord. The Lord has given each of us different abilities. He wants us to use that ability in His service. The man in our verse didn’t fuss because another person got five talents and he only received two. No, he used the two and gained two more. And he received the exact same praise from the Lord as the one who had been entrusted with five talents. Use what you have for the Master. It pays off.

Lifestyle

1PE 1:15

Be ye holy in all manner of conversation.

1 Peter 1:15

The word “conversation” means the same as “life-style.” The Apostle is telling us to be holy in everything we do just as God is holy. This isn’t the way of the world, whose code of life is to do anything that you want to. We are not free to do anything just because we want to or like to. We belong to the Lord. He’s our Savior and Lord. He lived a spotless, holy life. We should too.

Life

1PE 1:18

Ye were not redeemed with . . . silver and gold, from your vain conversation.

1 Peter 1:18

Our life is but a shadow, a little poof and it’s gone, like a flower that by summer’s end has withered and died. God could not accept anything of this world in payment for our sins. So we were not redeemed with things like silver or gold. They tarnish and become spoiled too. No, we were redeemed with something whose value will last for eternity - the blood of Christ.

Lifestyle

1PE 2:12

Having your conversation honest among the Gentiles.

1 Peter 2:12

Is your life an open book? People should be able to look at you and say, “There is an honest person, you can trust him.” We are exhorted to live honest lives, lives that unsaved people can look at and commend. And it’s not because we are better than anyone else. It’s just that the Lord has given us the ability, through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, to be honest. The Lord Jesus was completely honest when He was here. He even paid taxes, in spite of the fact that he didn’t have a job that He received a salary for. Let’s be just like Him.

Lifestyle

1PE 3:2

While they behold your chaste conversation.

1 Peter 3:2

Here’s the fourth of five “life-styles” mentioned by Peter in his first letter. This one is a chaste life-style. That means one that is completely pure and trustworthy. This verse is actually addressed to Christian wives but we can apply the principle to each of us who belongs to the Lord Jesus. What a pleasure in an evil world to see Christians that are living pure lives before the Lord.

Lifestyle

1PE 3:16

That . . . they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ.

1 Peter 3:16

The final “life-style” spoken about by Peter is a “good life-style.” That doesn’t mean living a life-style with lots of possessions and food and the latest in cars and fashions. It means simply that we are good people. Jesus was a good man. He did and thought good things. Jesus was far more than just a good man, of course, but you understand what I mean. That is the pattern for us, to be good people, people who are there to help when help is needed, who are kind and thoughtful and polite, etc. Let’s live good lives for Jesus’ sake.

Worship

GEN 8:20

And Noah builded an altar unto the Lord . . . and offered burnt offerings on the altar.

Genesis 8:20

Noah had just come through the flood. He had believed God when He told him that judgment was coming. He had built the ark and with his family had come through God’s judgment. Now he looks around at the ark lying on the side of the mountain and builds an altar to give an offering to God. As we meet together today around the Lord Jesus and look back to the cross at Calvary, we too can give an offering to God. Ours is the offering of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to His name.

Service

PHI 2:25

Epaphroditus, my brother, and companion in labor . . . and he that ministered to my wants.

Philippians 2:25

The Apostle Paul appreciated this brother Epaphroditus because he served Paul during his labors for the Lord. He was a companion to Paul and when the Apostle needed something Epaphroditus got it for him. He was fulfilling the position of a “help,” as given in the letter to the Corinthians. You too can be a help. The Lord appreciates those who are a help to others just as much as He appreciates some of the more “glamorous” jobs. Be a help.

Sickness

JAM 5:14-15

Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church . . . and the prayer of faith shall save the sick.

James 5:14, 15

These are very interesting verses. I have never seen this done, although a friend of mine was present at a session where a sick sister called for the elders in her local assembly. They prayed over her, anointed her with oil, and her prolonged sickness cleared up immediately. Read the verses yourself carefully. Remember, it’s the sick person who has to ask for prayer, and it must be the prayer of faith. Think about it.

Love

PHI 4 PHI 5

I thank my God . . . hearing of thy love and faith . . . toward the Lord Jesus, and toward all saints.

Philemon 4, 5

Love is the most important ingredient in a Christian’s life. How often we fall short and let the old nature mess things up. The love that God implants in our hearts when we believe is love that will love the unlovely and unlovable. It expects nothing in return. It’s a love that flows out towards God and towards all people everywhere and especially towards all other Christians. How wonderful when God’s love shows in our lives. It should show all the time.

Faithfulness

2CH 17:6

And his heart was lifted up in the ways of the Lord.

2 Chronicles 17:6

Your heart can be lifted up in one of two ways: in pride, or in the ways of the Lord. God hates pride, but He will bless those who, in simplicity and faithfulness, follow His ways. The ways of God are happy, with no regrets. Jehoshaphat, the king of Israel in our verse today, was faithful to the Lord, and the Lord honored him for it. He will honor you too if you stand firm for Him.

Respect of Persons

JAM 2:9

But if ye have respect to persons, ye commit sin.

James 2:9

Ouch! It wouldn’t hurt so much if the Lord had said that He wouldn’t like it if we have respect of persons. But it’s much more serious than that. It is sin. God said so. And still we show respect of persons. We treat one class better than another. We show favoritism to one group more than another. God has no favorites among His people. We shouldn’t show it either. Treat everyone the same.

Memorization

2PE 1:15

I will endeavor that ye may . . . have these things always in remembrance.

2 Peter 1:15

You may find that certain brothers, in their ministry, repeat and repeat and repeat. That helps us to remember. How do you remember Scripture? Very poorly, you say. That’s because you don’t memorize it. We discussed this a few days ago, but it’s very important for you to be able to recall Scriptures. You can only do that if you memorize them.

Love

DEU 7:7-8

The Lord did not set His love upon you . . . because ye were more in num-ber . . . but because the Lord loved you.

Deuteronomy 7:7, 8

The Lord loved Israel just because He wanted to. And the Lord loves us simply because He chooses to. It is one of the miracles that is hard, if not impossible, to understand - that the Lord loves us. He loved us before we loved Him and He gave His life for us while we were still sinners and away from Him. It’s divine love and can only come from God. All we have to do is to accept His love and enjoy it.

Service

2CH 31:21

And in every work that [Hezekiah] began in the service of the house of God . . . he did it with all his heart.

2 Chronicles 31:21

God loves dedication. Hezekiah was dedicated in his service for the Lord. He did it with all his heart. We love to see our young people put their whole heart into what they do for the Lord. You are encouraged from a young age to strive for the top in school work, sports and getting ahead in your job. Don’t forget one of the most important areas of your Christian life - your service for the Lord. Give it your best effort. God loves a dedicated servant.

Associations

PSA 101:4

A froward heart shall depart from me: I will not know a wicked person.

Psalm 101:4

We cannot stress enough the importance of choosing the right friends. The Psalm writer had determined not to be friends with the wicked. You say, “But my friends aren’t wicked people.” No, they may not be, but if you are a Christian and they are not, they will affect you so that you may end up doing things that are not honoring or pleasing to the Lord. Try and be friends with other Christians. Make it a special matter of prayer that the Lord will help you find another Christian at school to be friends with.

Care

GEN 48:15-16

God which fed me all my life long unto this day . . . bless the lads.

Genesis 48:15, 16

Jacob was at the end of his life and, as he recalled his long, eventful life, he remembered that, in spite of some hard times, God had cared for him all his days. He prays that God would bless Joseph’s two boys just as he had been blessed. Think today of the wonderful ways in which the Lord has cared for you and provided for you. He cares about our every need and wants to bless us in our lives. He loves to hear our thanks too. Let’s thank Him today for everything that He has done for us.

Salvation

JOB 9:30-31

If I wash myself with snow water, and make my hands never so clean; yet shalt thou plunge me in the ditch.

Job 9:30, 31

Salvation is not possible through our own doing. No matter how much care we take, no matter how clean we look on the outside, no matter how much Scripture we have memorized, no matter how many times we go to church or Sunday school, salvation cannot be obtained this way. Only by believing and trusting in the Lord Jesus can we gain entrance to heaven. Are you saved?

Death

EZE 33:11

As I live, saith the Lord God, I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked.

Ezekiel 33:11

The Lord goes on to say, “But that the wicked turn from his way and live.” God does not want man to die and go to hell. But He is righteous and cannot allow sin into His presence. Therefore He “now commands all men everywhere to repent” - to trust in Jesus as Lord and Savior. But man always thinks that he knows best, so many do not listen. It will not be God’s fault if any end up in the lake of fire.

Scripture

DEU 6:6-9

And these words . . . shall be in thine heart: and thou shalt teach them . . . talk of them . . . bind them . . . and . . . write them.

Deuteronomy 6:6-9

When we are totally occupied with some-thing - whether it’s sports, work or a hobby -we don’t find it too hard to talk about it as much as possible. If we get the Scriptures in our hearts and are living in the good of them - in other words, enjoying them for ourselves -then it is easy to talk of them, to show them by our lives, and to write about them. God wants us to be occupied with Him and His Word.

Worship

2CH 20:18

And Jehoshaphat bowed his head with his face to the ground . . . worshipping the Lord.

2 Chronicles 20:18

Jehoshaphat had felt Israel’s inability to fight the enemy. So he prayed to God to ask for His help. The reply was, “The Lord will be with you.” The king’s response was to fall down (he and his people) in worship. Today we remember that we never could have won the battle against Satan, sin and death. Jesus did it for us. Now we can fall down before Him in worship.

Service

MAT 8:15

She arose and served them.

Matthew 8:15 N.K.J.V

Peter’s mother-in-law didn’t take long to get back to work after the Lord healed her. In fact, she got up right away, it seems, and started to serve the One who had cured her. Ministering to the Lord is a wonderful service. In our lives we can minister to the Lord by serving His people.

Praying for Guidance

EZR 8:21

I proclaimed a fast . . . that we might humble ourselves before our God, to seek from Him the right way.

Ezra 8:21 N.K.J.V

Praying to God can be done in one of two ways. We can be like the self-righteous Pharisee in Luke’s Gospel who “prayed with himself” because he thought that he was better than others. Or we can be like Ezra in our verse who fasted and took a low place before God. Ezra’s prayer was answered.

Sickness

JOB 17:7

Mine eye also is dim by reason of sorrow, and all my members are as a shadow.

Job 17:7

Being sick is no fun, especially if it drags on for a long time. Job’s sickness led to deep discouragement and sorrow. He couldn’t understand why God was passing him through this hard trial. We often don’t understand God’s ways, but the Lord has His purpose. Sickness is allowed by Him sometimes as a means to keep us close to Him. Yes, it can be discouraging. But it will be for our blessing if we are prayerfully concerned about it.

Fighting

PRO 25:8 2TI 2:24

Go not forth hastily to strive. The servant of the Lord must not strive.

Proverbs 25:8; 2 Timothy 2:24

“Strive” means “to fight, to quarrel (argue), to dispute.” Are you the Lord’s servant? Then don’t be a quarreler. It takes much more maturity to turn away and close your mouth than it does to try to prove that you are right and the other person is wrong. The Lord Jesus NEVER argued.

God

NEH 9:17

Thou art a God ready to pardon, gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness.

Nehemiah 9:17

Isn’t it great to know and be a child of this God? God absolutely LOVES to bless. Let’s enjoy Him and His blessings today.

Trust

PSA 56:3

What time I am afraid, I will trust in Thee.

Psalm 56:3

Fear comes from facing the unknown - how someone will react to something I have said or done; how I will be treated or accepted; whether I can pass my final exam or not; what questions they will ask at the interview.

What time I am afraid

I will trust in Thee.

Suffering

LUK 24:26

Ought not Christ to have suffered these things?

Luke 24:26

There was none other good enough
To pay the price of sin.
He only could unlock the gate of heaven,
And let us in.

He had to suffer. Christ died for our sins. He didn’t have any. But God put ours on Him and punished Him as if He had done them Himself. Terrible suffering. But He had to suffer - to win His bride.

The depth of all Thy suffering

No heart can e’er conceive.

Service

JAM 2:15-16

If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food . . . notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful . . . what doth it profit?

James 2:15, 16

There’s lip service. And there’s doing something practically to help. If we wish our brother or sister well and that we hope they get what they need in the way of food and clothing but don’t help in any way, we are not serving the Lord at all. He wants us to be practical Christians, and if that means buying some food or clothes for poor Christians who have nothing, or giving them some of ours, then that’s the way we can serve our Master.

Kindness

2CH 35:26

Josiah, and his kindnesses.

2 Chronicles 35:26 (margin)

Josiah came to be king of Israel when he was eight years old. One of his characteristics apparently was that he was a kind person and showed kindness to others. This is one of the characteristics of Christian love as listed in 1 Corinthians 13:4:

Love Is Kind.

May the Lord help us to show kindness to -others.

LOVE

1PE 1:22

Love one another with a pure heart fervently.

1 Peter 1:22

God’s will for us is that we love each other. His standard is PURITY. Our love for each other is God’s love and His love is without partiality, and without any immoral undertones or desires. God’s love is also white hot (that’s what “fervent” means), and it is kept burning by the Spirit of God within us. This is the love that Christ had for us and that we will enjoy for all eternity. Let’s start practicing it on each other now.

Confession

EZR 9:5-6

I fell upon my knees . . . and said, O my God, I am ashamed and blush to lift up my face to Thee.

Ezra 9:5, 6

Ezra was totally ashamed when he found out that the Israelites had taken wives and husbands from the local Gentile people. This had been forbidden by God. Ezra had not done this but he confessed it to God just as if he had. This is the heart of a true shepherd. He will take the sin of another and pour out his heart to God as if he had done it himself. How we need to confess to God our failures and recognize the failures of others as our own. God blesses those who take a humble place.

Knowing Jesus

JOB 22:21

Acquaint now thyself with Him, and be at peace.

Job 22:21

Do you know Jesus? That’s a good question. You say, “Sure, I know Him.” But do you really know Him - His ways, His characteristics, His love, His care, His friendship, His Lordship over your life? To know Him as a good Man who died on a cross almost 2000 years ago is one thing. To know Him as your Lord and Savior is something entirely different.

Satan

LUK 22:31

Satan hath desired [or demanded] to have you.

Luke 22:31

Isn’t it a comfort to know that Satan cannot get near us unless the Lord allows him to? Satan demanded that he be allowed to have Peter. The Lord allowed Peter to be tempted by Satan and Peter fell for it and failed. But after his restoration he was a powerhouse for the Lord. He may never have denied the Lord again, and he preached faithfully in front of thousands. Imagine Satan demanding of the Lord that he be allowed to have you, and each time the Lord firmly says, “No. You can’t have him today.” Take courage, young Christian friend. The Lord is our Protector all our life through.

Worship

ACT 17:24-25

God . . . dwelleth not in temples made with hands; neither is worshipped with men’s hands.

Acts 17:24, 25

We can praise the Lord with music, song, instruments, voices, whatever. But true worship comes from the heart. God accepts the spontaneous thankful response of a heart that praises Him for the gift of His Son. God does not dwell in man-made edifices, nor can He be worshipped by man-made instruments. God wants your heart! As the Lord told the woman at the well (see John 4:24), “They that worship Him [God] must worship Him in spirit and in truth.”

Service

NEH 2:18

Let us rise up and build. So they strengthened their hands for this good work.

Nehemiah 2:18

Nehemiah was a faithful servant of the Lord and his personal faith and dedication flowed out to others so that they wanted to help too. The work that Nehemiah and his friends were doing was God’s work and no amount of threats or danger stopped them from doing “this good work.” May we all be that dedicated.

Marriage

REV 19:7

The marriage of the Lamb is come, and His wife hath made herself ready.

Revelation 19:7

The time for the marriage of the Lord Jesus Christ to His Bride is almost here. Our verse today gives us a preview of the actual time when the marriage takes place. We see that the bride is arrayed in her beautiful dress - white linen. Perfection! Absolutely spotless! And it’s all because of Calvary. What a wonderful wedding that will be. The invitations to this wedding all have R.S.V.P. on them. I’ve already responded to my invitation. Have you?

Fear and Deliverance

GEN 32:11

Deliver me, I pray Thee, from the hand of my brother . . . for I fear him.

Genesis 32:11

Jacob was afraid. Years before he had cheated his older brother out of his birthright. Now he is returning to his boyhood home with his wives and children, and he is scared of his brother’s reaction. Do you ever feel afraid like Jacob? Pray to the Lord about it and confess to Him any wrong that you have done. He will protect you, just as He did Jacob.

Trust

PSA 56:11

In God have I put my trust: I will not be afraid what man can do unto me.

Psalm 56:11

Here’s a good verse to go with yesterday’s problem. Nothing and no one is stronger than our Lord Jesus Christ. He broke the power of death when he rose from the dead after three days. If we have put our trust in Him for our eternal destiny, then we need not be afraid of anything now.

Praise

1PE 2:9

Ye should show forth the praises of Him who hath called you.

1 Peter 2:9

God called us to Himself. We didn’t have any desire towards Him until He worked in our hearts. Now, as His children, we have several jobs to do. One of these is to give praise to God for having saved us through the power of the Spirit, by believing on His Son. Let’s praise Him today.

Guarded

PSA 141:3

Set a watch, O Lord, before my mouth.

Psalm 141:3

This is a neat verse. The psalm-writer, David, must have been a lot like us. We often open our mouth and put our foot in it - that is, we say things without thinking and it causes trouble. How good to let the Lord control our mouths and our tongues so that we say kind things to and about others.

Worship

1CO 11:26

For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do show the Lord’s death till He come.

1 Corinthians 11:26

Remembering the Lord in His death can become mechanical and without meaning if we’re not careful. When that happens our worship is stale and not acceptable. Let’s make a special point to see Jesus on the cross today, to really try to feel the depths of His suffering. Then our hearts will overflow with worship for what He has done for us.

Service

ROM 2:7

To them who by patient continuance in well doing . . . eternal life.

Romans 2:7

There is a reward of eternal life to those who, while waiting for the Lord to come, spend their time and energy in serving Christ by doing good to others. Christianity is not self-seeking. In other words, we don’t spend all our energy pleasing ourselves. But the love of Christ in our hearts makes us want to reach out to others in their needs. This is one aspect of Christian service.

Reward

REV 22:12

Behold, I come quickly; and My reward is with Me.

Revelation 22:12

Did you ever receive a reward for something? Perhaps it was $5 for chores around the house. Or $10 for turning in a watch that you found. It feels good to be rewarded for doing something well or doing something honest. Our Lord Jesus is coming for us and He is going to present various rewards. What are you going to be rewarded for?

Cares

LUK 8:14

Choked with cares . . . of this life.

Luke 8:14

God’s Word often gets choked out of our lives. The Lord spoke of three things that could be responsible for this so that we become unfruitful for God. Here’s the first one: “The cares of this life.” As you get older, the daily stress and worry of life can be a real hindrance to spiritual growth. Give these cares to the Lord so that you don’t have to bear them alone. Then you can concentrate on producing fruit for God.

Riches

LUK 8:14

Choked with . . . riches . . . of this life.

Luke 8:14

This is the second aspect of life that can hinder our fruitfulness for God - the riches of this life. We have to work - that’s God’s requirement. But we don’t have to go after everything that money can buy. Riches can cause us to become very discontented and that causes unfruitfulness. God’s Word can become choked by the riches of this life.

Pleasures

LUK 8:14

Choked with . . . pleasures of this life.

Luke 8:14

The last of the three things that choke God’s Word is the pleasures of life. The world goes after pleasures. Satan entices man with pleasures. And the Christian is often influenced away from God by the pleasures of life. In themselves they may not be all bad, but if taken to excess they choke God’s Word and we become unfruitful. Let’s make a special effort to put the right emphasis on things in our lives so that we always give God first place.

Humility

2CH 34:27

Because . . . thou didst humble thyself before God . . . I have even heard thee also.

2 Chronicles 34:27

Josiah’s heart responded in simple, genuine humbleness when the law of Moses was read to him. He realized with shame that Israel, as a nation, had not kept it. God responds to humility on our part, and for Josiah that meant that God would take him to heaven before judgment fell on Israel. Let’s recognize God’s greatness and our own failures and unworthiness. He will honor us then.

Praise

PSA 92:1

It is a good thing to give thanks unto the Lord, and to sing praises.

Psalm 92:1

The Lord delights to hear our voices raised in songs of praise to Him. Calvary is still very fresh in God’s mind. He remembers, as if it were yesterday, the day He had to punish His Son instead of us. May it always be so that we can find time to praise the Lord Jesus Christ for what He has done in order to take us to heaven.

Service

LUK 10:37

Then said Jesus unto him, Go, and do thou likewise.

Luke 10:37

Service is doing. To know what to do for the Lord and to not do it is a dishonor to Him and will lead to unhappiness in our life. Jesus said: “If you know these things, blessed [or happy] are you if you do them.” In our verse, Jesus had just taught the people what true neighborliness was - the practical helping of someone in trouble. Jesus finished His instruction with: “Go, and do thou likewise.”

Riches

PSA 62:10

If riches increase, set not your heart upon them.

Psalm 62:10

The Lord has allowed some to become rich. Others don’t have a lot of this world’s goods. God’s Word is very plain. If you have plenty, don’t sit back and trust in your riches. They could be gone tomorrow. There is nothing wrong with wealth. It’s how you use it that counts. God wants us to trust entirely in Him, not in ourselves.

Watchful

NEH 4:17

Every one with one of his hands wrought in the work, and with the other hand held a weapon.

Nehemiah 4:17

Nehemiah and those rebuilding the wall of Jerusalem had to be careful. The enemy was trying to stop their work. So God’s servant and his helpers worked with one hand and held a weapon in the other. They were watchful, just like a bird feeding who constantly raises its head to watch for danger. We should be the same. There is much danger around us. Don’t go around in a dream. Be constantly on the alert -and armed (with the Sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God) - ready to fight.

Good

EZR 8:22

The hand of our God is upon all them for good that seek Him.

Ezra 8:22

Down through the ages saints have discovered the same thing - that God is ready to bless those that seek Him and put Him first. Of course Satan is busy trying to stop man from turning to the Lord. But man has a heart that only God can fill. The things of the world do not satisfy completely. Only God’s love does.

Judging

ROM 2:1

Wherein thou judgest another, thou condemnest thyself.

Romans 2:1

To sit in judgment on someone else is not Scriptural. Quite often the person who condemns someone else for something they are doing is actually committing that offense himself. None of us is perfect. We all have to stand before God to be judged by Him. We will be held accountable for what we have done, said, thought and allowed in our lives. Let’s take extra effort to try to live honestly and rightly before the Lord, and let Him, not us, be the judge of others.

Salvation

ACT 8:20

Thou hast thought that the gift of God may be purchased with money.

Acts 8:20

Foolish mistake. Money cannot ever get you into heaven. Good works, kind thoughts, attendance at church and Sunday school cannot even get you into heaven, much less can money. No, the cost to get to heaven was so large that not even the richest man in the world could pay the price. Only Jesus could do that and in order to gain salvation we HAVE to believe in Him. Nothing else will do. He paid the price for sin. All we have to do is to believe it and accept Him as our personal Lord and Savior.

Mercy

HOS 6:6

For I desired mercy, and not sacrifice.

Hosea 6:6

Man wants so badly to be able to DO something for salvation. We talked yesterday about money not being able to buy salvation. In our verse today man wanted to be able to offer sacrifices to please God, only to find out that God desperately wanted to show mercy to man and wouldn’t accept his feeble sacrifices. God loves to show mercy. He doesn’t want to send anyone to hell. If you are not yet saved, turn to Him today in genuine repentance and allow Him to show you His wonderful mercy.

Service

ROM 7:4

Wherefore, my brethren . . . we should bring forth fruit unto God.

Romans 7:4

Bringing forth fruit just simply means that others can see Christ in us. What were some of the characteristics of the Lord? He was kind. He always spoke the truth. He was merciful, tender, compassionate, willing to listen. He was gracious and gentle. He cared for other people. Do these things show up in our lives too? If they do, we will bring forth fruit unto God. If they don’t, we need to get before the Lord about it and ask Him to help us shine for Him.

Confession

EZR 9:13

Our evil deeds, and . . . our great trespass, seeing that Thou our God hast punished us less than our iniquities deserve.

Ezra 9:13

Ezra recognized the extreme kindness of God in not punishing unduly. Ezra also recognized the fact that, as a nation, Israel hadn’t come up to God’s standard. In fact, they were great sinners. When we come to the point that we see ourselves as great sinners, God can and will bless. He wants us to confess to Him. He will take care of the rest.

Grace

LUK 4:22

And all . . . wondered at the gracious words which proceeded out of His mouth.

Luke 4:22

Another verse says: “Grace and truth came by Jesus Christ.” I guess that man didn’t really know what true grace was until the Lord came. And He showed grace at every step. He spoke with grace. He acted in grace. And He loves to show grace to each of us even today. One of the first impressions made by the Lord was that He spoke in gracious tones and words - nothing harsh or coarse. We do well to imitate Him.

Happiness

JOH 13:17

If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them.

John 13:17

The Lord had just finished giving His disciples a lesson in service. He had just washed their feet with water in a basin. Feet-washing was customary in Bible times, but there was a spiritual lesson that the Lord wanted His disciples (and us) to learn, that is, that we need to wash each other’s feet in a spiritual sense. We pick up defilement from living in this world. The application of the Scriptures washes us clean. To do this service for the saints of God is a happy work and one that we can all do.

Reward

PSA 62:12

Thou renderest to every man according to his work.

Psalm 62:12

Reward time for the Christian is after all the Lord’s people have been called to heaven to be with the Lord. Then He will review our lives. Those things done for Him will receive their due reward. Those things done for self will be burned. Let us set our minds on heaven, and run the race before us to obtain the prize at the end of the course. The best prize will be to see the Lord and hear His “Well done!”

Proverbs

PRO 1:1

The proverbs of Solomon, the son of David, king of Israel.

Proverbs 1:1

Have you ever made it a habit to read one chapter of Proverbs each day of the month? It seems there is a chapter for each day of the month. Proverbs is an amazing and underrated book. There is divine wisdom in each chapter that will help you in your relationship with God, with your family, with the Church and with the world.

Worship

PSA 66:13

I will go into Thy house with burnt offerings: I will pay Thee my vows.

Psalm 66:13

Today is a day when we can spend time in worship. As we think of our Lord Jesus and His death at Calvary and the awful suffering that He endured on the cross, it should make our hearts overflow with praise and worship. Jesus died so that we wouldn’t have to. He suffered the punishment for our sins. Worship is the highest response of our hearts to such incredible love.

Service

1CO 7:35

That ye may attend upon the Lord without distraction.

1 Corinthians 7:35

There are so many things that take our attention away from that which is the most important. To work for the Lord is the most important way that we can use our time. He wants us to work for Him. There are many things to do. There are so many people who need help and so many that need to hear the gospel. Are we willing and available for the Lord’s work? It’s His work and He wants us to share in it.

Desire

ACT 13:7

Sergius Paulus . . . desired to hear the word of God.

Acts 13:7

In this passage we have three men with strong desires: Sergius Paulus, who desired to hear God’s Word; the Apostle Paul, who desired to preach the Word; and, Elymas the sorcerer, who desired to stop the Word. Today we have the same situation. There are those who want to hear the gospel, and those who want to preach, and Satan who is trying to stop it going out. The Christian’s life is indeed a spiritual battle.

The Shepherd

PSA 23:1

The Lord is my shepherd.

Psalm 23:1

Read the whole of Psalm 23. (It’s only six verses.) David would not lack anything since the Lord was his shepherd (v. 1); he would not lack rest or refreshment (v. 2); he would not lack restoration or righteousness (v. 3); confidence, companionship or comfort (v. 4). There would be food, fellowship and joy in abundance (v. 5). There would be the necessities of life followed by eternal life (v. 6).

Do You Know the Shepherd?

Memorize Psalm 23.

LOVE

PSA 23 JOH 13:34

A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another.

John 13:34

This commandment is mentioned some thirteen times in the New Testament. It is very important that we obey this new commandment of the Lord. One thing that people have a really hard time doing is learning to get along. Even Christians (sad to say) don’t do this very well. If this request of the Lord was put on the top of our priority list, we would all get along just fine. How about it?

In the Spirit

1CO 2:4

My preaching was not with enticing words . . . but in . . . the Spirit and of power.

1 Corinthians 2:4

When God speaks, whether directly or through a man, there is power. The Apostle Paul spoke in amazing power because he spoke in the Spirit. There are many who can speak well, but it’s the Spirit of God that penetrates the hearer’s heart. And when messages are given in the power of the Spirit, nothing can stop them.

Self-Denial

1CO 9:25

Every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things.

1 Corinthians 9:25

Anyone training for a sports event, like the 100 meter race for instance, goes on a strict schedule. One thing unacceptable is overeating. The participant in the race must deny himself many of the “pleasures” that those who don’t race can enjoy. So, too, in the spiritual race of life. If we are to win the race, we must practice self-denial. We set aside activities that are pleasurable for us and concentrate instead on things for God. That’s what the word “temperate” means: self-control.

Suffering

LUK 22:44

And being in an agony He prayed more earnestly.

Luke 22:44

The Lord, being not only a man, but God too, could anticipate what lay ahead. And the fact that He had to be made sin and be separated from His God was tremendous torment. He agonized, prior to the cross, in prayer to His Father. He asked Him to take away the cup of judgment that He had to drink. But then He said, “Nevertheless, not My will but Thine be done.” In spite of the horror of the cross, Jesus was willing to go through with it - in His obedience to His Father and because of His love for us.

Kept

PRO 2:10-22

When wisdom entereth into thine heart and knowledge is pleasant unto thy soul . . . to deliver thee from the way of the evil man . . . from the strange woman.

Prov. 2:10, 12, 22

We all want to be kept from evil men and women. But what is it that can do this? Only the knowledge and wisdom of God. Where can we get that? By prayerfully and carefully reading God’s Word and by listening to those who reverently teach God’s truth. Solomon got much of his wisdom from his father David. We need to learn from God our Father first of all, then also from those who have experience and wisdom to pass on to those who are younger. We are best kept from evil by learning and doing good.

Adam

ROM 5:14

Adam . . . who is the figure of Him that was to come.

Romans 5:14

This verse talks about Adam’s failure and sin and also that he was a figure of the Lord Jesus. How can that be? It was not his sin that made him a figure (or a picture) of Jesus. It was how he got his bride. Adam was constantly reminded that Eve had come from a rib taken from his side. The Lord Jesus has a wound in His side - a constant reminder (for us) of how He made it possible for us to be with Him in heaven as His Bride.

Speech

ISA 28:11

For with stammering lips and another tongue will He [God] speak to this people.

Isaiah 28:11

We would all like to be as eloquent as Apollos (see Acts 18:24). Eloquence (the ability to speak well) is an ability given by God. We can be thankful for those who have it and use it properly. But it is a rare ability. Moses was not gifted this way and he led millions of people. Paul had “contemptible speech,” but multitudes were saved through his preaching. The power of God is more often manifest by stammering lips than by smooth talk. A heart in communion with God can speak better than a mouth in command of words.

The Just

PRO 4:18

The path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day.

Proverbs 4:18

If you are saved, you are justified (made right) in the sight of God. The “perfect day” for us is the rapture when the Lord Jesus comes to call us out of the world and take us to heaven. But now what is your path (your life) like? Is it shining more and more for Jesus? Are you reading, receiving and responding to His Word? Are you reaching out, speaking out and going out to help others? The Lord has left us here to be the light of the world for Him and towards others still in darkness.

The Will of God

ROM 12:2

That good, and acceptable, and perfect will of God.

Romans 12:2

The will of God for me,
Is in the Word of God to me,
Through the Spirit of God in me,
From the Son of God with me,
showing . . .
The love of God through me,
The arms of God beneath me,
The glory of God before me,
Till the city of God surrounds me.

Prayer

LUK 11:2

When ye pray, say, Our Father which art in heaven.

Luke 11:2

Many have memorized this as a standard prayer. But the Lord Jesus was trying to teach His disciples principles, not vain repetitions. First we have, “Our Father.” If we are saved, we can know God and address Him as our Father. We are His children for eternity. Then, “Hallowed be Thy name.” God is holy and is to be reverenced. “Thy kingdom come.” The Father has a glorious future for us and we want it to come soon. “Give us this day . . . ” Our Father will provide us daily with spiritual and temporal needs. “Forgive us our sins.” Our Father is forgiving when we confess our sins. “Deliver us from evil.” Our Father is faithful to preserve us from evil. Do you know God as your Father?

The Lord’s Death

ACT 7:52

The Just One; of whom ye have been now the betrayers and murderers.

Acts 7:52

The Lord Jesus Christ was perfect in every sense of the word. He came to His people Israel and they rejected Him in preference for a robber. One of His own disciples (Judas Iscariot) betrayed Him to the Jewish leaders. They in turn gave Him to the Roman authorities and demanded that He be crucified. Israel has still to be judged for betraying and murdering the Son of God. Their day in court is still to come. And they will be found guilty on all counts. Today, as followers of Jesus, we can spend a few minutes remembering His betrayal, His trial, His crucifixion and His death.

Eternity

LUK 16:25

Son, remember.

Luke 16:25

Even in hell, condemned forever, the lost will be able to remember the natural joys and pleasures they experienced on earth. But being bound hand and foot and in total, eternal darkness, they will not be able to fulfill any of their natural desires. What an awful, never-ending torment of spirit, soul and body! Should we not then be concerned to reach out to the lost and earnestly beseech them to remember the cross? “Hell is truth - seen too late.”

Enoch

HEB 11:5

By faith Enoch was translated that he should not see death. . . . He had this testimony, that he pleased God.

Hebrews 11:5

Enoch walked in communion with God. His ways pleased God. He escaped death by being taken directly to heaven by God. He lived by faith in God. How do we measure up?

Confidence

1CO 15:10

By the grace of God I am what I am.

1 Corinthians 15:10

We often look down on others who do wrong as if we wouldn’t do the same. But human beings, no matter who they are, or how they’ve been raised, are capable of doing the most awful evil. It’s only the grace of God that keeps us. We can have no confidence in ourselves. But we can have all confidence in God. He alone can keep us from evil and we can say with the Apostle Paul, “By the grace of God I am what I am.”

Feeding the Flesh

ROM 13:14

Put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfill the lusts thereof.

Romans 13:14

We make provision for our final exams by studying for them. We make provision for our evening meal by cooking something. We make provision for the flesh by looking at or indulging in sinful things, or even thinking sinful thoughts. So the Lord tells us in His Word to not make provision for the flesh. If you feed the flesh (or the old nature), it will be more active and cause you to get into sin. Let’s make a special effort to feed the new nature and do those things that are pleasing in God’s sight.

Salvation

ISA 61:10

God . . . hath clothed me with the garments of salvation, He hath covered me with the robe of righteousness.

Isaiah 61:10

Salvation is all God’s work. I have nothing to do with it. He gives me the faith to believe the gospel. I believe, and then He puts on me the garments of salvation and covers me in perfect righteousness. To Him I look like I have never sinned. Isn’t that neat? Yes, the Lord Jesus died for us and by simple faith in His work on Calvary, we are spotlessly clean in God’s eyes.

Guidance

EXO 15:13

Thou in Thy mercy hast led forth the people which Thou hast redeemed: Thou hast guided them in Thy strength unto Thy holy habitation.

Exodus 15:13

God has great mercy. He would have been quite justified in sending us all to a lost eternity. But because of His mercy He has redeemed us and now He is leading us and guiding us all the way to heaven. He guided the Israelites by a pillar of fire and a pillar of cloud. He guides us by the Holy Spirit in each of us and by His Word. Are you listening?

Death

1CO 15:3

Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures.

1 Corinthians 15:3

The Old Testament is full of verses that suggest the coming of a Savior who would die for His people. In many of the stories there are pictures of God giving up His Son and that He would shed His blood to wash away our sins. These pictures and verses become clear after we get saved. Then we can think about these things and say with confidence that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures. Can you think of an Old Testament story that is a picture of the death of Jesus on the cross?

Labor

LUK 10:7 1CO 3:9

The laborer is worthy of his hire.

Luke 10:7

We are laborers together with God.

1 Corinthians 3:9

We have all experienced what it is like to work with someone who is ornery, lazy, or otherwise difficult to get along with. Let’s be sure we are the laboring one and not the lazy one. And let’s remember who we are working with and working for - GOD! That makes the work much easier and happier. Keep busy with and for God. Remember: “They that do nothing are ready to do that which is worse than nothing.”

Affection

ROM 12:10

Be kindly affectioned one to another.

Romans 12:10

The New Testament repeatedly has verses like this in it. You see, the new nature has the capacity to care for others. And we are reminded over and over again of the necessity of being kind. The world is full of hatred and cruelty. Tens of thousands of people are being killed in wars in various parts of the world. Life means nothing to some people. How very careful we should be to protect life and to show kindness and speak kindly to others, especially other Christians.

Thankful

1TM 6:17 COL 3:15

God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy.

1 Timothy 6:17

Be ye thankful.

Colossians 3:15

Our daily needs, the necessities for life all through our lives, the exceeding great and precious promises of God, the unsearchable riches of Christ for eternity, a heavenly home in the Father’s house, the heavenly Jerusalem from which we will reign over the earth, and more. How can we not frequently each day say, “Thanks, Lord”? Remember this: “An unthankful man is like a pig under a tree eating acorns, but never looking up to see where they come from.”

Riches

1TM 6:6 LUK 18:23

Godliness [devotedness to God] with contentment is great gain.

He was very sorrowful: for he was very rich.

1 Timothy 6:6; Luke 18:23

You’ve heard it said many times, “Money can’t buy happiness.” Have you experienced this truth? Don’t waste your life trying to prove to yourself what God’s Word plainly teaches. Was Solomon happy and satisfied with the greatest wealth that any man has had in this world? No. He said that riches make wings and fly away. It is all vanity and vexation of spirit. Another said more recently, “Worldly riches are like nuts: many clothes are torn in getting them, many a tooth broken in cracking them, but never a belly filled with eating them.” [Venning]

Take It Slow!

PRO 29:20

Seest thou a man that is hasty in his words? there is more hope of a fool than of him.

Proverbs 29:20

Far better to wait and pray,
Than to date and play.
Some may seem late,
To find a mate;
But they are better still,
Than those in self-will,
Who wed in a haste,
And make marriage a waste.

Neckties

PRO 3:3

Let not mercy and truth forsake thee; bind them about thy neck; write them upon the table of thine heart.

Proverbs 3:3

Here are two neckties that we can wear all the time - MERCY and TRUTH. Mercy often means that we don’t receive what we deserve. Truth is being honest with God and man. Is this what you desire in your heart? Are these two things written in your heart? If they are, then let them show. The heart represents the inner man; the neck, the outward display. Be truthful with God, and merciful and truthful with all men.

Burial

1CO 15:4

He was buried . . . according to the Scriptures.

1 Corinthians 15:4

Men judged the Lord Jesus to be a criminal, and so would have buried Him in a criminal’s grave. But God would not allow that. A rich friend of the Lord, Joseph of Arimathea, buried the Lord in his own tomb, a place where no one else had been buried. Isaiah puts it this way: “Men appointed His grave with the wicked, but He was with the rich in His death.” And so we see the loving care with which two secret disciples took the dead Christ and wrapped Him up and laid Him in a new tomb. Man could not touch Him after His death. He was buried according to the Scriptures.

Service

ROM 12:13

Distributing to the necessity of saints.

Romans 12:13

There are saints in the world, believers in the Lord Jesus, who have real needs. Don’t forget them. There are many poor Christians who need the necessities of life. One of our duties is to care for others in the body of Christ who have needs. We sometimes restrict our giving to our own circle of fellowship. God’s care knows no denominational boundaries.

Remembering

LUK 24:8

And they remembered His words.

Luke 24:8

The angels had to remind the disciples what the Lord had said earlier. When we get confused or bothered by something, do we remember the Word of God? To remember God’s Word you have to have read it and known it before. The Scriptures, when we remember them and think about them during the day, can excite us, comfort us, teach us, correct us, keep us safe from evil. Make it a habit to recall verses as you go through the day. For example, when someone does something good, think of Philippians 4:8. When evil tempts you, think of Proverbs 1:10.

Just Say “No!”

PRO 4:14-15

Enter not into the path of the wicked, and go not in the way of evil men. Avoid it, pass not by it, turn from it, and pass away.

Proverbs 4:14,15

There are times that we just have to say, “NO!” to people, places and things. Don’t enter into the path of wrong - it is much harder to get out of the evil way than it is to get into it. It is like a fish hook - it goes in much easier than it comes out. So avoid evil; don’t look at it, think about it, or entertain it. Instead, think about Christ and His Word, His people, His work, His coming, His kingdom.

Sharing

ROM 12:15

Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep.

Romans 12:15

This is the practical example of the truth of Christ’s body being one. We are all members of His body, if we have been washed in His precious blood. And as members together we should have equal care for all the other members. What kind of parent would I be if I fussed over one of my children who was sick, but I ignored another one when he or she got sick? No, Christians should share in the joys and sorrows of others. This is real, practical Christianity.

Sinful Habits

PSA 119:11

Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against Thee.

Psalm 119:11

Are you struggling with sin in your life? Are there bad habits and temptations you can’t seem to conquer? How much time do you spend reading your Bible? A daily diet of God’s Word brings blessing to the Christian. Neglecting it spells disaster. Martin Luther once said, “This Book will keep me from sin, or sin will keep me from this Book.”

Singing

PSA 149:1 REV 5:9

Sing unto the Lord a new song.

Psalm 149:1

And they sung a new song.

Revelation 5:9

What are the lyrics of the new song?

“Thou art worthy. Thou art worthy.
Thou art worthy.”

Jesus died and conquered death by rising from the dead. He now is worthy of all our praise because He has redeemed us to God by His blood. Our new song is now. But it’s going to be wonderful when all the millions of saved souls sing together in heaven and the Lord is the center of our attention.

Resurrection

1CO 15:4

He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures.

1 Corinthians 15:4

Death could not hold the Lord Jesus. He was so much stronger than Satan who had introduced death into the world. Now the Son of God was bringing new life. And according to the Old Testament the Savior would rise again. Can you think of any verses in the Old Testament that were fulfilled by the Lord when “He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures”?

Service

PRO 14:23

In all labor there is profit: but the talk of the lips tendeth only to penury [poverty].

Proverbs 14:23

Do we talk or do we do? The Lord Jesus was not a man of many words, but a man of many works (see John 21:25). They say that talk is cheap and actions speak louder than words. So let’s work out our faith and salvation.

“An acre of performance is worth a whole world of promise.”

Tears

JOH 11:35 PSA 56:8

Jesus wept.

John 11:35

Put Thou my tears into Thy bottle: are they not in Thy book?

Psalm 56:8

Jesus wept - a man of sorrows, acquainted with grief. Jeremiah had rivers of water running down his cheeks for the hurt of his people. And we cry too - God allows it on earth, but there will be no tears in heaven. Yet God counts our tears and keeps them in His bottle. There are times when we need to cry, so don’t be afraid to.

Thanks

LUK 17:15-16

And one of them . . . fell down on his face at His feet, giving Him thanks.

Luke 17:15, 16

The Lord loves to be thanked. He had just healed ten lepers from their leprosy. One of the ten, realizing that he had been healed, turned back to the Lord and thanked Him for what He had done. Are you one out of ten to give thanks to the Lord for what He has done for you? He died at Calvary and was punished for your sins there. He cares for you as you make your way through life. You have so much to thank Him for. Don’t forget.

Giving

LUK 21:4

She of her penury [poverty] hath cast in all the living that she had.

Luke 21:4

The Lord was watching people put money into the temple collection box. Rich people cast in plenty. Then this poor widow threw in two small coins, which were all she had. She had a choice to keep one for herself, but she gave both. The Lord appreciated her gift much more than the gifts from those that were rich, because it was no sacrifice for them. Sometimes it’s really hard to give money to the Lord, because times are tough financially. But how about giving yourself? You can do that. If you can’t give money, then give yourself and your talent for Him to use in His work.

The Lord’s Coming

2TH 2:1

The coming of our Lord Jesus Christ . . . our gathering together unto Him.

2 Thessalonians 2:1

This is the next great event to take place in the world. There are many troubles in the world at the moment. But there will be no trouble like the one caused after millions of Christians suddenly disappear without a trace and without explanation. Can you imagine all the businesses that will lose their most trusted employees? All the really honest government officials will be gone. There will be mass chaos, with only unsaved people to make decisions under the complete influence of Satan. When is Jesus coming? SOON!

Personal Reading

PRO 5:15-16

Drink waters out of thine own cistern. . . thine own well. Let thy fountains be dispersed abroad.

Proverbs 5:15, 16

Have you enjoyed something from God’s Word during your personal reading, a Scripture you feel sure the Lord has given to you - revealed to you - that has blessed your heart and helped your daily life? It is nice to hear what others have received at their own cistern, but it is also a happy thing to share what God has given you personally. If you have something from God, then give it out, freely. Others need the ministry you have. Keep God’s water flowing.

Ascension

ACT 1:9

While they beheld, He was taken up; and a cloud received Him out of their sight.

Acts 1:9

The Lord’s ascension to heaven was witnessed by many of His disciples. Just as many had seen Him after He rose from the dead, so many saw Him as He was taken up into heaven. He went back to His heavenly home to wait the time when He would be able to come back and personally call us up to meet Him in the air. That day is almost upon us. We pray that each of our readers is ready for the Lord’s coming. His ascension to heaven completed His earthly work. Now in heaven, at the Father’s right hand, He is interceding for us and watching over us. There is a real man in heaven.

Service

PRO 6:6

Go to the ant . . . consider her ways, and be wise.

Proverbs 6:6

You have to stoop down to watch ants. They are hard to see. It’s even harder to see what they carry and do. Ants do one thing at a time and they do it until they are finished. Ants stick to it. We should do the same, as Christians. Be willing to work out of sight and sound. Do one thing at a time. Do little things right. Remember, it is better to do one thing right than two things half-right.

Tears

LUK 7:37-38

A woman . . . which was a sinner . . . stood at His feet behind Him weeping, and began to wash His feet with her tears.

Luke 7:37, 38

Through her many tears this woman saw more of the glory of Jesus than any others. Have your tears led you to know Jesus better, to draw nearer to Him, to trust Him as never before? Then be thankful for those tears. “Tears are often the telescope through which men see far into heaven.” [Beecher]

Giving

2CO 9:6

He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully.

2 Corinthians 9:6

God rewards us according to how we use for Him the abilities, the time and the energy He has given us. If we hold back, He holds back. If we give plenty, He’ll reward with plenty. So the responsibility is ours. Are we willing to give everything we have in His service?

Relationships

1TH 3:12

And the Lord make you to increase and abound in love one toward another, and toward all men.

1 Thessalonians 3:12

Our love for others cannot come from ourselves. The motivation for it comes from the Lord. Without His love in our hearts, and the Spirit having free run of our lives, we won’t be able to love others. Let the Lord take control of your life. Then your relationships with others will be based on God’s love, which is unconditional and pure.

Relationships

1TH 4:9-10

Ye yourselves are taught of God to love one another. . . . We beseech you, brethren, that ye increase more and more.

1 Thessalonians 4:9, 10

Again, we have the motivating force behind our ability to love others. It is God Himself working in us. The Apostle encouraged the believers in Thessalonica to be loving Christians, and to let their love show, and grow. That is our prayer too, that each of us would be more loving, and that the love of God which is shed abroad in our hearts would show on the outside.

Relationships

1TH 5:13

Be at peace among yourselves.

1 Thessalonians 5:13

There’s enough trouble and war and cruelty in the world without Christians adding to it. How devastating it is to see Christians not getting along, fighting and arguing, just like the world does. Remember the Apostle Paul’s request to the Thessalonian Christians, “Be at peace among yourselves.” Let’s put that into practice.

Exaltation

HEB 2:9

We see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honor.

Hebrews 2:9

We see this by faith. We know from the Scriptures and the eye of faith can see our Lord Jesus Christ exalted above everything. He willingly went into death. He bore the punishment for our sins and now He has been exalted to the highest place. God is well pleased with the work of the cross. And we are the recipients of the mercy and grace of God because of Calvary. Let us remember the cost of our redemption today as we break the bread and drink the cup.

Service

PRO 22:29

Seest thou a man diligent in his business? He shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean [or, obscure] men.

Proverbs 22:29

If you are going to do something, do it right - not half-right. Diligent means to be thorough, complete, and careful in your business, school work, or home duties. There’s a man who has made fishing reels for 45 years - just a few hundred each year. But he has done such a thorough job that his reels are owned by people around the world. Now we have something far better to do than make fishing reels. The gospel of Christ needs to go out. We should be very diligent in this important business, because we shall one day stand before the King of kings and rule with Him over the earth for 1000 years.

Power

PRO 4:20-24

My son, attend to my words . . .
Keep thy heart with all diligence . . .
Put away from thee . . .

Proverbs 4:20-24

Notice God’s order here. It is the same all through the Bible. First, read and receive God’s instructions. Second, keep His Word in your heart by obeying it - doing what it says to you. Then third, avoid evil, put it away, flee from youthful lusts. First, God’s goodness and love to us must be known and enjoyed and acted upon. Then we have divine power to refuse evil. “The goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance.”

Alone/Hated

PRO 19:7

All the brethren of the poor do hate him: how much more do his friends go far from him? he pursueth them with words, yet they are wanting to him [or, failing towards him].

Proverbs 19:7

Even in an old book like Proverbs there are verses that may refer to the Lord Jesus Christ. This scripture was certainly true of the Lord. Even the Lord’s brothers despised Him and did not believe in Him to begin with (John 7:5). Many of His disciples left Him and went back (John 6:66). His closest friend forsook Him as He went up to Calvary (Mark 14:50). He cried out from the agony of the cross that there was no one there to comfort Him (Psalm 69:20). If you have ever felt rejected and alone, remember what the Lord Jesus went through.

Obedience

REV 22:7

Behold, I come quickly: blessed [happy] is he that keepeth the sayings of the prophecy of this book.

Revelation 22:7

It is hard to learn, but not impossible, that real, lasting happiness comes from simple obedience to God’s Word and will. Mary said to the servants at the marriage feast, “Whatsoever He sayeth to you, do it.” John 2:5. The Lord Jesus said, “I delight to do Thy will, O My God.” Psalm 40:8.

Wisdom

PRO 8:11

For wisdom is better than rubies; and all the things that may be desired are not to be compared to it.

Proverbs 8:11

Wisdom is the proper application of knowledge and understanding from God’s Word to our lives. Have you ever seen a beautiful gold or silver nugget or coin? Fascinating! But if you’ve ever seen a well-cut ruby, you have seen something far better than silver or gold and more rare and precious than a diamond. The enchanting hue and sparkle of a ruby is something many great people have sought after. But the dependent believer in Christ has something better even than a ruby - in fact better than many rubies. He has the Lord Jesus interceding, and the Holy Spirit indwelling, and the Word of God instructing Him. Ask God for wisdom and use it when you have it.

Sin

PRO 21:4

A high look, and a proud heart, and the plowing of the wicked, is sin.

Proverbs 21:4

Some might believe that you can only sin when you act or do something with your body or mouth. But the old, evil nature we all have from birth can sin without acting. A proud look is sin. The thought of foolishness is sin. A proud, unrepentant heart is sinning continually in thought, word and deed. Be sure you judge your inward secret attitude, and then your outward actions will be right. Remember that the Pharisees had good outward actions, but Jesus said that inside they were full of ravening and wickedness. Clean the inside first, then the outside will be clean too. (Matthew 23:25-28.)

Death

LUK 23:46

Father, into Thy hands I commend My spirit: and having said thus, He gave up the ghost.

Luke 23:46

Jesus is God. He did things that no other could do, because He was God. One of those things was that He gave up His spirit. It was necessary that He become a man that He might die, but man could not take His life from Him, although they are responsible for nailing Him to the cross. The Lord said, “I have power to lay it [My life] down, and I have power to take it again.” Yes, Jesus certainly did die. He died a cruel death. And it was so that we would not have to be banished from His presence forever. Jesus died for our sins, according to the Scripture.

Dedication

PSA 119:10

With my whole heart have I sought Thee: O let me not wander from Thy commandments.

Psalm 119:10

Have you ever heard any of your teachers say, “Now, class, I want your undivided attention”? Well, God wants our undivided attention too. He wants our whole heart. David could say that he had sought the Lord with his whole heart. And that search had led him to the commitment that he didn’t want to ever wander away from the Lord. May it be so with us that we give our affections completely to the Lord and find, in doing so, that He satisfies better and more completely than anything else in the world can.

Quick Riches

PRO 13:11

Wealth gotten by vanity [unsatisfactorily] shall be diminished: but he that gathereth by labor shall increase.

Proverbs 13:11

We should earn what we get. The laborer is worthy of his hire. What we earn fairly God blesses and multiplies. But so many want a handout. This verse might be applied to the numerous lotteries that are now ensnaring millions of people. Lotteries are addictive and a waste of money. Those very few who win have gotten wealth by vanity and many have had their lives ruined. The Christian already has the unsearchable riches of Christ and does not need to take the terrible financial and spiritual risk of playing lotteries or other forms of gambling.

Approval

2CO 10:18

For not he that commendeth himself is approved, but whom the Lord commendeth.

2 Corinthians 10:18

A person who thinks much of himself is not wise. There are many who brag of their accomplishments and how good they are. But the real commendation and approval comes from heaven. Only the commendation of the Lord counts for anything. There will be many who, on reaching heaven, will hear the Lord say to them, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant.” Will He say that to me? Will He say that to you? Among all of life’s accomplishments there will be nothing to compare to hearing those words.

God’s Word

PSA 119:11

Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against Thee.

Psalm 119:11

We sin against the Lord often. Our old nature is EXTREMELY active and sins EASILY. All sin is against God. The Psalm writer found the secret to helping him not sin against the Lord. He hid God’s Word in his heart. This is the only solution for us too. Then when Satan attacks, the Word of God can be used to fight against him. With it in our hearts, we can recall it in an instant and use it as evidence against him. Then he will flee from us.

Coveting

PSA 119:36

Incline my heart unto Thy testimonies, and not to covetousness.

Psalm 119:36

We live in a world that succeeds in providing for the coveting hearts of people. Many places would go out of business overnight if people didn’t covet. We have a natural inclination to covetousness. How much better to have a natural inclination to the Word of God. Read it daily and use it to help you in your decisions in life. Don’t lean towards covetousness but lean towards the Lord and His Word.

Burial

LUK 23:52-53

This man . . . begged the body of Jesus . . . and laid it in a sepulcher.

Luke 23:52, 53

One of the Lord’s disciples, unknown to us until this time, went to Pilate for permission to bury the Lord. That being granted, Joseph of Arimathea buried the Lord in his own tomb, never used, a cave hewn out of a rock. Joseph was rich. And that’s why the Old Testament says that the Lord “was with the rich in His death.” The Lord was given a good burial, by friends. He was not assigned a burial with criminals, because He had done no wrong, neither was guile found in His mouth. God saw to it that He was honored in His burial. But death could not hold Him and three days later He rose from the dead. Only God could do that!

The Lord

PSA 145:8

The Lord is gracious.

Psalm 145:8

We’re going to spend the next six days on characteristics of the Lord as given in Psalm 145. David knew in a very real and practical way that the Lord is gracious. He goes on to say in this verse that the Lord is full of compassion, slow to anger, and of great mercy. Isn’t it good to have this kind of person for your Friend and Savior? If you are not saved, come to Jesus today. Discover for yourself that He is not a cruel, heartless God somewhere out in the great beyond, but He is very close to you. He is indeed gracious, and He shows grace constantly to every one of us.

The Lord

PSA 145:9

The Lord is good to all.

Psalm 145:9

Yesterday we saw that the Lord is gracious. He is also good to ALL, not only those that belong to Him by faith, but also to the unsaved. He sends rain upon the just and the unjust. He sends sunshine and food and air to breath. He holds our life in His hands. Yes, the Lord is good to ALL. We deserve to be sent to a lost eternity away from God, but the Lord has made a way possible so that we can go to heaven. He is good.

The Lord

PSA 145:14

The Lord upholdeth all that fall.

Psalm 145:14

There is a beautiful story in the gospels about a man who had fallen into the hands of a gang of robbers, and a traveller passing by helped him up. He went to him, saw that he was beaten and bruised and sick, and bound up his wounds. Then he took him to an inn and paid for two days’ lodging. That’s the way the Lord is. If you are down, He is there to help you up. Even if you don’t have the strength to call for help, He will be there beside you. That’s just the way He is.

The Lord

PSA 145:17

The Lord is righteous in all His ways.

Psalm 145:17

A man said to me the other day, “When I think of what David did in committing adultery with Bathsheba and then having her husband killed, I just get plumb mad. How can God forgive something like that?” Our verse says that the Lord is righteous in all His ways. He is the creator of the universe, and if He chooses to forgive someone, then we cannot question Him. Similarly, if He sends someone to hell, we can’t question that either. He is righteous and fair and honest and loving. We cannot question what the Lord does. Just have faith to believe that He ALWAYS does right.

The Lord

PSA 145:18

The Lord is nigh unto all them that call upon Him.

Psalm 145:18

Remember Peter walking on the water? Actually, remember him when he couldn’t do it any more and started to sink? What happened? Jesus immediately reached out, after Peter called for help, and lifted him up. He is there when things get tough, when your heart aches, when there is sadness and trouble in your life. The Lord is near when you call to Him.

The Lord

PSA 145:20

The Lord preserveth all them that love Him.

Psalm 145:20

Those that belong to the Lord Jesus and know Him as their personal Savior have a special protection that the unsaved do not have. We have the Lord Himself watching out for us. He will preserve us all the way home to heaven. What a Savior we have!

The Resurrection

LUK 24:5-6

Why seek ye the living among the dead? He is not here, but is risen.

Luke 24:5, 6

It was not possible for the Son of God to be conquered by death. That is the result for the human race. Death ends everything here. We cannot escape it. But the Lord Jesus Christ voluntarily went into death and conquered it by rising from the dead. He was seen by many after His resurrection. It is an established historical fact that Jesus rose from the dead. We have a living Savior. His grave is empty.

Service

EXO 21:6

His master shall bore his ear through with an awl; and he shall serve him for ever.

Exodus 21:6

This is the loving response of a servant to his master who has been good and kind to him. Instead of wanting to leave, he expresses his dedication by receiving a permanent mark in his ear and pledging his service forever. Do we carry a permanent mark of service to the Lord? Do we love Him so much for what He did for us at Calvary that we are willing to serve Him forever? May it be so for each of us.

Anger

PRO 14:17-29

He that is soon angry dealeth foolishly. . . . He that is slow to wrath is of great understanding.

Proverbs 14:17, 29

Anger is one of the “works of the flesh.” Hasty, unjustified anger can cause a lot of damage. Haven’t we all regretted things we did or said in haste, when we were too upset or mad to think straight? You can erase words written, but any words spoken are fiery arrows that can never be brought back. Bridges burned by hasty words are very difficult to rebuild. Remember, God is slow to wrath, and He is very patient. As children and sons of God we should show the same carefulness with all people.

Chastening

PSA 119:67-71

Before I was afflicted I went astray. . . . It is good for me that I have been afflicted; that I might learn Thy statutes.

Psalm 119:67, 71

“Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless, afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby.” Hebrews 12:11. David in our verse today realized God had passed him through a great trial so that he might learn God’s ways. He was exercised about the trial and it brought blessing in his life. The same is true for us. If, when we pass through trial, we are before the Lord about it in earnest prayer, He will bring blessing out of it. But if we just go on as if nothing has changed, then we will miss the real reason why God allowed the trial in the first place.

God Sees

PRO 15:3

The eyes of the Lord are in every place, beholding the evil and the good.

Proverbs 15:3

There is no place that God does not see what is going on. From the highest heaven to the depths of the seas to the bowels of the earth, nothing escapes God’s perfect vision. And all will receive His perfect justice. Evil works will bring judgment to those who are lost. For those who are saved, some works may be burned up, but there will be works of gold, silver and precious stones that will receive an eternal reward.

Man’s Ways

PRO 16:2

All the ways of a man are clean in his own eyes; but the Lord weigheth the spirits.

Proverbs 16:2

Often we think we are doing exactly the right things. But God is more interested in why we do them. Is what we do just for ourselves, to justify ourselves before men? Job thought he was so righteous that he would not let his integrity go. Job had a good reputation to protect. But God came to search out Job’s heart and humble him so that he finally had to say, “I am vile . . . I abhor myself.” Then God blessed him with twice as much as he started with. There are seven “ways” in Proverbs 16. Can you find the other six?

Heaven

2CO 12:3-4

I knew . . . a man . . . how that he was caught up into paradise, and heard unspeakable words.

2 Corinthians 12:3, 4

The man here was the Apostle Paul himself. At one point, after he became a believer in the Lord Jesus, he was caught up to heaven and heard and saw things that he was unable to describe in human language. That’s the heaven that you and I are going to soon. Only when we get there will we be able to enjoy everything, because we will be like Christ and the flesh will be gone. We will see the Lord Jesus at the center of everything. We will all be changed, and together we will be praising the Lord for all eternity.

Ascension

LUK 24:51

And it came to pass, while He blessed them, He was parted from them, and carried up into heaven.

Luke 24:51

Yesterday we read about Paul’s trip to heaven. His stay didn’t last very long. But while he was there he saw Jesus. Our verse today tells us how Jesus went back to heaven. His work on earth was finished, He said good-bye to His disciples and then God received Him back as a man into heaven. And He’ll be a man in heaven forever. The story of the love and grace of God is a wonderful story - and one that is one hundred percent true. Our Savior is alive, at the right hand of God in heaven - today.

Service

GEN 40:4

Joseph . . . served them.

Genesis 40:4

This is a wonderful verse and a great lesson for any who feel sorry for themselves when things are tough. Joseph had been thrown into prison for something he had not done. But instead of feeling sorry for himself, he spent his time in caring for the needs of the other prisoners. Think about that. Don’t just mope when things seem black and not going your way. Just spend your time in serving others. You’ll be glad that you did.

Offense

MAT 5:23-24

If thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath aught against thee; leave there thy gift.

Matthew 5:23, 24

Read very carefully verse 23 and all of verse 24. It is most instructive to see that God lays the responsibility to “make up” on the offender, not on the offended. If I come to worship and I remember that someone has something against me, I must go to that person first, be reconciled to them, and then God will accept my worship. It is so important to keep short accounts with God and man. Have you hurt or offended someone recently? Go to them and put it right.

A Gift

PRO 17:8

A gift is as a precious stone in the eyes of him that hath it: whithersoever it turneth, it prospereth.

Proverbs 17:8

We all appreciate getting something free, especially something we need and can use. Eternal life is the gift of God. The Lord Jesus is God’s “unspeakable gift.” The Holy Spirit is His gift, freely given to all those who put their trust in Jesus. Let’s thank God for His free gifts to us. Now, how do we make them prosper? Study the Lord Jesus in the gospels. Read about all His virtues and characteristics. Consider what He is doing for you now at God’s right hand. It will prosper you and help you grow to be like Him, and it will prosper others who see Christ in you.

Sins

SOS 2:15

The little foxes, that spoil the vines.

Song of Solomon 2:15

It’s the little sins that hurt us,
Ones we think no one will see.
But they gradually destroy us:
Then we are no longer free.
So put up the guarding fences;
Keep the little foxes out.
Because little grows enormous
As long as Satan is about.

Salvation

GEN 3:9

And the Lord God called unto Adam, and said unto him, Where art thou?

Genesis 3:9

You mean God didn’t know where Adam was? Of course He did. But God wanted a verbal confession from Adam as to where he was. And God wants a verbal response from you as to where you stand. Do you believe in Jesus as your Lord and Savior? Then tell God. If you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.

Obedience

GEN 12:1-4

Now the Lord had said unto Abram, Get thee out of thy country. . . . So Abram departed.

Genesis 12:1, 4

This is obedience in action. Abram had no idea where he was going but he went because God told him to. Considering that Abram had been raised in a nation that worshipped idols, this response to God’s call shows how great Abram’s faith must have been. Often we do not know what lies ahead. But when we feel God leading us - we MUST obey.

Our Voice

SOS 2:14

Sweet is thy voice.

Song of Solomon 2:14

The Lord loves to hear our voices, whether in songs of praise, or in prayer. To His ears our voice is sweet. That’s because He loves us with an unfathomable love. And now one of His great pleasures is to hear our voice. Do you talk to Him?

Worship

GEN 4:4

Abel . . . brought of the firstlings of his flock. . . . And the Lord had respect unto . . . his offering.

Genesis 4:4

Abel had a sense of what was acceptable to God as a sacrifice. He somehow knew that blood had to be shed for the remission of sins. And God accepted his sacrifice. Abel worshipped God in the right way and received a blessing. When we meet together for collective worship, we must recognize in the loaf and the cup on the table the representation of the Lord’s body and blood. This sacrifice is acceptable to God.

Service

ACT 20:19

Serving the Lord with all humility of mind.

Acts 20:19

Christian service has a unique feature. The rewards for it will be given by Christ after all Christians are called up to heaven. If service is done with self hidden, there will be great reward. As a Christian, my sole desire should be to serve the Lord Christ, to live like Him, and to be humble about my service.

Offense

MAT 18:15

If thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault.

Matthew 18:15

Scripture is very clear. Difficulties between two people should be kept between those same two people. They should work it out between them. If you are the person who’s been offended, go to the offender in the spirit of humbleness and meekness. If you are the offender, go to the one you’ve offended and say you’re sorry - and mean it.

CareLines: Volume 4

Table of Contents

Beginning

Faith

The Rod

Salvation

Dedication

Love

Zealous

Service

Book of Life

Service

Diligence

Courage

Self-Control

Perseverance

Godliness

Brotherly Kindness

Love

The Greatest Thing

Praise

Self-Praise

Danger

Sin and Confession

Satisfaction

Compassion

Prayer

Prayer

Hell & Heaven

With Him

Protected

Midnight

Demon Possession

Life

Brokenness

Confidence

Perfect Man

Convictions

Service

Service

Hate

Good Marriage

Reward

Perplexed

Depressed

Service

Work

Prayer

Peace

Comfort

Tidings

Example

Wise Walk

Service

Old/New

Trustworthy

Gossip

Friend

Encouragement

Encouragement

Encouragement

Service

Apart

Relationships

Confession

Comparisons

Associations

Deliverance

Service

Rewards

Gain

Fornication

Reward

Luke

Jesus

Service

Resurrection

Wanting Tekel.

Prudence

Knowing the Lord