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Young Christians Calendar

A daily meditation for young Christians

January 2021

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Sunday, January 31, 2021

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He Laid Down His Life
“And when Jesus had cried with a loud voice, He said, Father, into Thy hands I commend My spirit: and having said thus, He gave up the ghost” (Luke 23:46).
“Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends” (John 15:13).
No one else could ever give up their life in this way. Only the divine Son of God could say, “I lay down My life” (John 10:15). He then could further add, “Therefore doth My Father love Me, because I lay down My life, that I might take it again. No man taketh it from Me, but I lay it down of Myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. This commandment have I received of My Father” (John 10:17-18).
It is a wonderful thing to meditate on the sacrificial death of the Lord Jesus at Calvary, and to realize that it was all for the glory of God His Father and for our eternal blessing. It is a precious truth and an awesome reality to be able to say, “He laid down His life for us” (1 John 3:16). And it is a marvelous thing to be able to echo with the Apostle Paul, “The Son of God, who loved me, and gave Himself for me” (Galatians 2:20).

Saturday, January 30, 2021

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Safe
“The name of the Lord is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe” (Proverbs 18:10).
When traveling in the Caribbean, you see all kinds of sayings, and even Bible verses, decorating vehicles. Recently, on the back of a taxi van on the island of Saint Vincent, I saw the following:
Christ’s work makes one safe!
Yes, to be saved is to be safe. Safe from the judgment that is coming on this world, and safe from eternal punishment in hell. It brought to mind the words of a hymn I grew up singing. Here is a part of it:
Safe in Christ, the weakest child
Stands in all God’s favor;
All in Christ are reconciled
Through that only Savior.
Once their sins on every side,
Seemed to tower o’er them;
Christ has stemmed the angry tide;
Been through death before them.
Are you “safe in Christ?”

Friday, January 29, 2021

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Monthly Question Page
Q. Can you please explain why in Matthew it says, “They stripped Him, and put on Him a SCARLET robe” (27:28), but in John it says, “a PURPLE robe” (19:2)?
A. The answer is really very simple. There is no contradiction here, and no mistake in translation. There could easily have been two robes in which the Lord was arrayed and mocked at different times during His trial. In keeping with the character of the inspired writers each only mentions the color that is in keeping with their presentation, and aspects of the Lord Jesus which they are called on to record.
Matthew presents the Lord as the Jewish Messiah, the King of the Jews. As scarlet was the Jewish color of royalty, he is the one that records that particular robe.
On the other hand, John writes from the Gentile perspective. Purple being the royal color of the gentiles (particularly the Romans in this case), he records the incident of the purple robe.
In these two robes, as well as other numerous indications, we see both Jew and Gentile united in their rejection of the Son of God. Thankfully, there is a day coming when He will be universally owned as “KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS” (Revelation 19:16).

Thursday, January 28, 2021

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Guidance
“The meek will He guide in judgment: and the meek will He teach His way” (Psalm 25:9).
I suppose every true believer deep down in their heart desires the guidance of the Lord in their life. However, the above verse shows us that there must be a submissive attitude of meekness and a willingness to give the Lord first place if we are going to be guided and taught according to His way. Meekness is giving Him the preeminence and walking humbly before Him. The perfect example, of course, is the Lord Jesus Himself, who said: “Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls” (Matthew 11:29).
Here are some further verses on the subject:
“For Thou art my Rock and my Fortress; therefore for Thy name’s sake lead me, and guide me” (Psalm 31:3).
“I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with Mine eye” (Psalm 32:8).
“And the Lord shall guide thee continually, and satisfy thy soul” (Isaiah 58:11).

Wednesday, January 27, 2021

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Monthly Scripture Reading
Numbers 21
And they journeyed from mount Hor by the way of the Red sea, to compass the land of Edom: and the soul of the people was much discouraged because of the way.
And the people spake against God, and against Moses, Wherefore have ye brought us up out of Egypt to die in the wilderness? for there is no bread, neither is there any water; and our soul loatheth this light bread.
And the Lord sent fiery serpents among the people, and they bit the people; and much people of Israel died.
Therefore the people came to Moses, and said, We have sinned, for we have spoken against the Lord, and against thee; pray unto the Lord, that he take away the serpents from us. And Moses prayed for the people.
And the Lord said unto Moses, Make thee a fiery serpent, and set it upon a pole: and it shall come to pass, that every one that is bitten, when he looketh upon it, shall live.
And Moses made a serpent of brass, and put it upon a pole, and it came to pass, that if a serpent had bitten any man, when he beheld the serpent of brass, he lived.

Tuesday, January 26, 2021

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Wheelbarrow Christians
Down here in the Eastern Caribbean where I spend a great deal of time, they have an expression, “Wheelbarrow Christians.” The first time I heard it I wasn’t sure what it meant, but I finally figured it out.
A “Wheelbarrow Christian” is someone who always has to be pushed, and never takes on more than is placed on them by someone else. In other words, a person with no initiative and one who does no more than is absolutely necessary or expected of them. I know a lot of people like that. They say there is nothing to do for the Lord, they wait for others to ask them to take a Sunday school class or go with them on some venture for the Lord. They don’t see that the chairs need to be arranged for the next meeting, the dishes need to be done after the fellowship meal, or that hymnbooks need to be handed out for the gospel service. They are always waiting to be asked or pushed to do the work of the Lord. Does this describe you?
There is much to do for the Lord today! Don’t wait to be pushed into it. “Say not ye, There are yet four months, and then cometh harvest? behold, I say unto you, Lift up your eyes, and look on the fields; for they are white already to harvest” (John 4:35).

Monday, January 25, 2021

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Dear Young Christian:
“Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ” (Ephesians  5:20).
“In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you” (1 Thessalonians 5:18).
I am on Union Island in the eastern Caribbean today. It is the southernmost Grenadine island belonging to Saint Vincent. While visiting with a brother in Christ in his little grocery store, we spoke of the need to be thankful for all things and being thankful in every situation as well. As we talked on the subject, he made the following comment: “True gratitude is a result of a proper attitude.” His point was, that we can say we are thankful, and even act like it, but inside we are anything but.
I don’t believe we can be truly thankful in the circumstances of life until we are truly thankful for them. Whatever happens this week learn to take it from the Lord and be thankful in and for everything that the Lord allows.
Your Christian Friend,
Jim Hyland

Sunday, January 24, 2021

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Sitting
“And when the hour was come, He sat down, and the twelve apostles with him … And He took bread, and gave thanks, and brake it, and gave unto them, saying, This is My body which is given for you: this do in remembrance of Me. Likewise also the cup after supper, saying, This cup is the new testament in My blood, which is shed for you” (Luke 22:14, 19, 20).
There in the upper room, the Lord sat down with His disciples and gave them very specific instructions as to how they were to remember Him in His absence.
“But this Man, after He had offered one sacrifice for sins for ever, sat down on the right hand of God” (Hebrews 10:12).
Now our Savior is seated in Heaven. What a glorious person and work we remember today. Will you be sitting down in His presence, at His table, to remember Him?
“And, behold, a throne was set in Heaven, and One sat on the throne” (Revelation 4:2).
Soon we are going to see the Lord seated on the throne in Heaven and be with Him forever.

Saturday, January 23, 2021

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Our Judge or Savior
We must one day stand before a Holy God to answer for our sins. “And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment” (Hebrews 9:27). But don’t despair, the gospel proclaims what God has done before that day of judgment arrives, that we might not be condemned for our sins. The next verse reads, “So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for Him shall He appear the second time without sin unto salvation” (Hebrews 9:28).
If my creditor comes to claim a debt, and I have nothing to pay, it is all over with me, but if he comes and pays it, I am now free and clear. God cannot overlook iniquity; but it is very different to insist upon the payment of a debt and to come and pay it. The gospel tells us of what Christ has done as Savior, before He comes as judge. “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners” (1 Timothy 1:15). The Lord Himself affirmed, “I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly” (John 10:10).
Will you meet God as your Judge or your Savior?

Friday, January 22, 2021

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Service and Reward
“The Lord recompense thy work, and a full reward be given thee” (Ruth 2:12).
There’s a reward for service that’s done from the heart for the Lord and for the benefit of others. Ruth had been very kind to her mother-in-law, Naomi. She cared for her and refused to leave her to return to Bethlehem-judah alone. As a result of her devotion, she was rewarded.
Service for the Lord is giving what you have for others as unto the Lord. There are many needs and opportunities for service. Let’s serve Him today in humbleness and simplicity, and follow the instruction given to those in Colosse, who were told to serve the Lord, “not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but in singleness of heart, fearing God: And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ” (Colossians 3:22-24).
The Lord wants to give us a “full reward” (2 John, verse 8). Will He have that privilege when your life and service is reviewed?

Thursday, January 21, 2021

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Young People of Scripture
Joseph
“Joseph, being seventeen years old, was feeding the flock with his brethren” (Genesis 37:2).
Joseph is one of the most beautiful types of the Lord Jesus in the Old Testament. However, there are many practical lessons to learn from his life as well. Introduced to us as at seventeen, we find him going in obedience to his father to see how his brothers were faring. We see him patiently enduring reproach and suffering. With moral integrity and by the grace of God he resisted sin and temptation. In spite of this, Potiphar’s wife unjustly accused him of something he did not do, and he ended up in prison. There he trusts God for His time and way of deliverance, and eventually he rises to be next to Pharaoh on the throne of Egypt. No matter where he was and no matter how difficult the circumstances, he sought to be faithful and not compromise for any reason. In the end we learn of his spirit of forgiveness in dealing with his brothers who had so wronged him, and we observe his love and care for his elderly father. Read prayerfully and carefully the story in Genesis chapter 37 through chapter 50. I know it will be a blessing.

Wednesday, January 20, 2021

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Gaius
“Gaius mine host, and of the whole church” (Romans 16:23).
There are five mentions of Gaius in the New Testament. He was a Christian from Corinth who had been baptized by the Apostle Paul (1 Corinthians 1:14). He travelled with Paul in his service for the Lord (Acts 20:4). In so doing, he suffered persecution at Ephesus (Acts 19:29). The Apostle John later writes him a short letter of encouragement and exhortation, referring to him as “the well-beloved Gaius, whom I love in the truth” (3 John, verse 1)
In the above verse, he is mentioned as Paul’s host and the host of the whole church. Paul often named individuals with a commendation of some kind. One of the characteristics that God views with pleasure is that of a believer being hospitable. When we open our homes to other Christians, we can be assured that we are doing God’s service. Many of my readers live with their parents. The next time they open their home and have company over, be there to help and to encourage. You will find it will not only be a blessing to those who are invited, but it will be a blessing to you as well.

Tuesday, January 19, 2021

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Wisdom
“Get wisdom, get understanding: forget it not; neither decline from the words of my mouth … . Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding … . The fear of the Lord is the instruction of wisdom … . He that getteth wisdom loveth his own soul … . O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God … . Where is the wise? where is the scribe? where is the disputer of this world? hath not God made foolish the wisdom of this world … . For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God … . If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him … . The wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be entreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy … . Wherein He hath abounded toward us in all wisdom and prudence … . That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him” (Proverbs 4:5; 4:7; 15:33; 19:8; Romans 11:33; 1 Corinthians 1:20; 3:19; James 1:5; 3:17; Ephesians 1:8; 1:17).

Monday, January 18, 2021

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Dear Young Christian:
We all need encouragement, and remember our greatest encouragement comes from the Lord Himself through His Word, the Bible. When David was in trouble he knew where to turn. On one occasion we read, “And David was greatly distressed … But David encouraged himself in the Lord his God” (1 Samuel 30:6).
Are you starting out this week with fear and trepidation? Have you had a discouraging weekend? Get your Bible out and read a few verses. Spend a few moments in prayer. You will find it will do wonders in lifting your spirit and giving you the courage to face the day, no matter what happens.
Life is tough! I don’t discredit that for a moment! But I do know that we have One who is greater than any problem, and greater than our enemy, the Devil. Don’t forget, “greater is He that is in you, than he that is in the world” (1 John 4:4). Don’t be discouraged, find your strength and encouragement in the Lord.
Your Christian Friend,
Jim Hyland

Sunday, January 17, 2021

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He Took Our Place
“Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends” (John 15:13).
Pedro and Francisco were brothers in Bolivia. Francisco was brought to know the Lord Jesus as his Savior at a missionary school he attended. Pedro and Francisco looked very much alike; but unlike Francisco, Pedro did not know the Lord as Savior. He would not listen to the Gospel. When the Chaco War (1932-1935) between Bolivia and Paraguay broke out, Pedro, who was older than Francisco, was called up for duty. Francisco, knowing his brother was not ready to die, was concerned he might be killed. One day, he dressed in his best Indian clothes and went to visit Pedro in the barracks. Finding him alone, Francisco said, “Pedro, you are going to war. You may be killed and you are not saved; you are not ready to die! Quickly! take off your clothes, change with me, and go out. When the guard asks your name, don’t forget to say ‘Francisco Gira.’” They changed clothes. Pedro thanked him and embraced him.
This story is a faint illustration of the Lord’s love in taking our place and laying down His life for us. “Hereby perceive we the love of God, because He laid down His life for us” (1 John 3:16). Don’t forget to thank Him today!

Saturday, January 16, 2021

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Three Questions
Here are three good questions to ask ourselves, all of which are answered in the Word of God.
1. Question: Where did I come from?         
Answer: “Behold, I was shapen in iniquity; and insin did my mother conceive me” (Psalm 51:5).
2. Question: Why am I here?         
Answer: “That ye may be blameless and harmless,the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst ofcrooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shineas lights in the world” (Philippians 2:15).
3. Question: Where am I going?     
Answer: “Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wideis the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth todestruction, and many there be which go in thereat:Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way,which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it” (Matthew 7:13-14).
I trust all my readers are saved and on their way to Heaven, and that, in the meantime, you are shining as a light for Jesus.

Friday, January 15, 2021

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The Lord’s Protection
“This poor man cried, and the Lord heard him, and saved him out of all his troubles. The angel of the Lord encampeth round about them that fear him, and delivereth them” (Psalm 34:6-7).
Francisco lived in Bolivia and was a true believer who loved the Lord. He, as well as many hundreds of other young men, was sent to the Chaco War (1932-1935) between Bolivia and Paraguay. One night he was on sentry duty alone. It was a very dark night, but he had learned to pray, committing everything to the Lord. Suddenly, he heard something moving behind him. He turned around quickly but could see nothing. Then he heard the noise behind him on the other side. Quickly, he turned again but saw nothing. He was afraid it might be one of the enemy soldiers, but he dared not shoot because if it weren’t, and all the army were aroused, he would be court-martialed. He might even be shot for causing a “false alarm”! Again, he heard the sound — this time even nearer. Just then, the moon came out brightly. There stood a big tiger in front of him! The tiger just looked at him, then ran into the jungle as fast as he could. Francisco thought, “Surely the Lord is with me!” He bowed his head and thanked the Lord for His goodness.

Thursday, January 14, 2021

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Our Best Friend
We all like to have someone we can refer to as our “best friend.” Someone we can turn to at any time with confidence, knowing that they care and are willing to listen and help. But even more than that, someone we can share the good times with as well. Someone we can talk things over with, plan things with, and share our deepest secrets with.
The Bible says, “There is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother” (Proverbs 18:24). The Lord said to His disciples, “Ye are My friends” (John 15:14). The Lord Jesus is the best friend we can ever have. Are you cultivating and enjoying that friendship? Peter P. Bilhorn (1865-1936), penned the following words which sum it up so well, and are still sung by many young and old today:
The best friend to have is Jesus,
The best friend to have is Jesus,
He will help you when you fall,
He will hear you when you call;
Oh, the best friend to have is Jesus
He is the One of whom we can say, “He is altogether lovely. This is my beloved, and this is my friend” (Song of Solomon 5:16).

Wednesday, January 13, 2021

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Knowing Him
“And this is life eternal, that they might know Thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom Thou hast sent” (John 17:3).
What does it mean to know someone? Does it simply mean to recognize their face or their voice or their handwriting? Does it mean to simply read about them from time to time in the newspaper or hear about them through the media? No, there’s something far deeper. It means to know how they think, how they act in certain situations, how they treat others. It is to know what they like and don’t like, and to understand what really pleases them.
How well do you really know the Lord? I’m not asking you how much you know about Him, but how well do you know Him? You can know a lot of facts about someone and not know the individual personally.
You will only get to know the Lord as you spend time in His company. The Apostle Paul’s desire was, “That I may know Him, and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings, being made conformable unto His death” (Philippians 3:10). Is that your desire too? I ask you again, “How well do you know the Lord?”

Tuesday, January 12, 2021

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Impossible
“But Jesus beheld them, and said unto them, With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible” (Matthew 19:26).
There are many things in life’s experiences that to us appear to be impossible to solve. And with men they are impossible! But don’t forget that the One who made the earth and everything that lives on it finds nothing impossible. Are you in an “impossible” situation today? You don’t see any light at the end of the tunnel? You are saying, “This will never work out.” Turn to the Lord Jesus and let Him take care of it for you. It may require dedication in prayer for a certain length of time before you will see any results, but be assured that God knows what to do and how to do it. And be encouraged by going to the Word of God and reading the stories of people like Abraham, Joseph, Ruth, Esther, Jonah, and so on. And don’t forget the assurance, “that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose” (Romans 8:28). And also the words of the angel to Mary, “For with God nothing shall be impossible. (Luke 1:37).

Monday, January 11, 2021

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Dear Young Christian:
Here are four things the Lord desires to open in our lives.
1. Our eyes: “Their eyes were opened, and they knewHim” (Luke 24:31).
2. The Scriptures: “He opened to us the Scriptures” (Luke 24:32).
3. Our understanding: “Then opened He theirunderstanding” (Luke 24:45).
4. Our heart: “Whose heart the Lord opened” (Acts 16:14).
There is then something the Lord wants us to open. It is the door of fellowship and communion with Himself. He says, “Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear My voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with Me” (Revelation 3:20). As you start out this week, make sure you allow Him the opportunity to open your spiritual eyes, the Scriptures, your understanding, and your heart. And don’t forget to open yourself to His companionship. That’s what He truly desires.
Your Christian Friend,
Jim Hyland

Sunday, January 10, 2021

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One
One is God’s number of unity. Here is just a sample from the Bible that proves this.
As to His person:
“One Spirit” (Ephesians 4:4).
“One Lord” (Ephesians 4:5).
“One God and Father” (Ephesians 4:6).
As to His work:
“One sacrifice” (Hebrews 10:12).
“One offering” (Hebrews 10:14).
As to the results:
“One faith” (Ephesians 4:5).
“One baptism” Ephesians 4:5).
“One body” (Ephesians 4:4).
“One hope” (Ephesians 4:4).
How thankful we should be today as we consider these simple yet profound truths.
Soon we are going to be gathered in one with all the redeemed around the Lord Jesus in the Father’s house. Then there will be one song and one object — “a Lamb as it had been slain” (Revelation 5:6).

Saturday, January 9, 2021

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Heaven or Hell
“Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it” (Matthew 7:13-14).
Yesterday, painted on the back of a taxi on the island of Saint Vincent, we saw the following:
If you miss Heaven … you sure can’t miss hell!
Wow! That’s quite a statement isn’t it?
Yes, it is one or the other. There are two destinations for every human being born on planet earth … Heaven or Hell! No other choice.
My dear reader, which way are you headed?
Heaven or hell, there is no other choice,
Today are you listening to God’s loving voice?
He calls you and tells you to turn from your way,
Repent and believe, start for Heaven today.
The road may be narrow but leads unto life,
And happy you’ll be through sunshine and strife.
If you miss out on Heaven with Jesus to dwell,
You surely won’t miss the sad horrors of hell!

Friday, January 8, 2021

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His Way
“As for God, His way is perfect: the Word of the Lord is tried: He is a buckler (shield) to all those that trust in Him” (Psalm 18:30).
A young brother recently made the following comment during a Bible meeting we were having on the island of Saint Vincent in the Caribbean:
“God’s way is perfect, and just because we don’t understand it doesn’t make it any less perfect.”
King David didn’t always understand the ways of the Lord in his life, but he learned to trust no matter what. He realized that what was allowed in his life was for his good and blessing, and that, in spite of circumstances, he could count on the Lord without question and find an all-sufficiency that never failed.
Maybe you are questioning the ways of God in your life. Don’t! It is a dangerous thing to do! We may ponder the ways of God, but we should never question them. Here is further advice from King David, through the inspired Scriptures, “Commit thy way unto the Lord; trust also in Him; and He shall bring it to pass” (Psalm 37:5).

Thursday, January 7, 2021

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Our Thoughts — Part 2
In the everyday routine of life, there are many things that we have to think about. School … work … practical living … and so on. But when we have opportunity to free ourselves from all that, what are we filling our minds with? Is it the Word of God and the person of Christ? Read carefully the following verses and follow their instruction, and you will prosper in your Christian experience.
“Have your mind on the things that are above, not on the things that are on the earth” (Colossians 3:2 JND Translation).
“And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things” (Philippians 4:8).
“Commit thy works unto the Lord, and thy thoughts shall be established” (Proverb 16:3).
Can you say, “How precious also are thy thoughts unto me, O God! how great is the sum of them” (Psalm 139:17)?

Wednesday, January 6, 2021

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Our Thoughts — Part 1
During a Bible study I recently attended, the question was asked, “What do you think about?” It is a good question for all of us to consider, and perhaps we should add, “What are we filling our minds with?” Satan has much to fill and corrupt the mind, and we need to be careful what we read and watch.
The Bible gives a great deal of instruction and exhortation on this subject. David wrote, “Thou anointest my head with oil” (Psalm 23:5). Oil in the Bible is always a figure of the Spirit of God. The head anointed with oil would bring before us the need to have our thoughts governed by the Word of God, by the power of the Spirit of God. It is “bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ” (2 Corinthians 10:5). When I was growing up, I often heard an older brother say, “We should saturate our minds with the Word of God until we think in the language of Scripture.”
How much does the Word of God form your thought patterns and shape your opinions? Tomorrow we will list some Scriptures that are good to keep in mind on this subject.

Tuesday, January 5, 2021

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Live for Jesus
“Serve the Lord with all your heart” (1 Samuel 12:20).
“Serve the Lord with gladness” (Psalm 100:2).
Wake up and live for Jesus,
As morning dawns once more;
Strength for the day is promised, and Jesus goes before,
To clear the road and guide you,
Safe all along the way;
He’ll not forsake or leave you, He’ll be with you today.
And when the evening shadows,
Hang heavy in the west,
You can relax with comfort, peace, joy and quiet rest,
Knowing that you have served Him,
And lived for Him today,
And think about His goodness, and meditate and pray.
Then when the night has fallen,
With darkness all around,
You can lay down in slumber, sweet sleep will then be found,
With Jesus by your bedside,
His mercy on you showers,
Until tomorrow’s sunrise, to keep you through those hours.

Monday, January 4, 2021

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Dear Young Christian:
No doubt it is back to school time for many of my readers. Here is a good verse to keep as your motto as a new term or semester begins:
“Let your light so shine before men,
that they may see your good works,
and glorify your Father which is in Heaven”
(Matthew 5:16).
Remember, light does not make any noise, it simply illuminates the darkness and lightens the way. This is one reason why God has left us in this morally and spiritually dark world. He tells us, “Ye are the light of the world” (Matthew 5:14). Will the world see something of Christ in your life this week? They may not read the Bible or go to a place where the Word of God is read and explained, but they will read your life and actions. Make sure they radiate the light of Christ and Heaven. “That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world” (Philippians 2:15).
Your Christian Friend,
Jim Hyland

Sunday, January 3, 2021

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Rich and Poor
“For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, that ye through His poverty might be rich” (2 Corinthians 8:9).
This verse gives us two great truths concerning the person and work of Christ.
First, the eternity of His person. Ask yourself, “When was He rich?” It certainly was not during His time here on earth. No, it was in a past eternity when He was dwelling in Heaven with God His Father. He could say, “Then I was by Him, as one brought up with Him: and I was daily His delight, rejoicing always before Him” (Proverbs 8:30).
Secondly, we learn the depths to which He stooped. Here in this world He had to say, “Show Me a penny” (Luke 20:24). However, He became even poorer than that. “He humbled Himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross” (Philippians 2:8).
Now as a result, “God also hath highly exalted Him, and given Him a name which is above every name” (Philippians 2:9). Yes, He was rich in a past eternity, poor in this world, and glorified now in Heaven. What a Savior and Lord we have to remember and worship today!

Saturday, January 2, 2021

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At the Door
“Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear My voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with Me” (Revelation 3:20).
A poor woman was in great financial difficulties. A kind-hearted gentleman called on her, intending to help. After knocking at her door for some time and receiving no answer, he concluded that she was not at home, and went away. Meeting her soon afterward, he told her that he had called to see her, telling her his errand. “Oh!” she replied, “was it you, sir? I am sorry. I thought it was the landlord who had come for the rent, and I was afraid to answer the door as I did not have it.”
As this woman treated her would-be benefactor, so thousands are treating God today. They think that when He knocks at the door of their hearts He has come to demand something from them, but what a mistake! He comes to give, not to claim the debt they owe. He comes to deliver from distress, and to give eternal life. “The Son of Man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give His life a ransom for many” (Mark 10:45).

Friday, January 1, 2021

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All Our Heart
“My son, give Me thine heart, and let thine eyes observe My ways” (Proverbs 23:26).
At the beginning of this new year, the Lord does not ask merely for the first place in our hearts: He wants our whole heart. Often, we can be like Peter, who followed the Lord, but “followed afar off” (Luke 22:54).
Perhaps you are following the Lord, but there are certain aspects of your life you want to carry on with, and certain corners of your heart you do not want to let the Lord into. Don’t be a half-hearted or even three-quarters-hearted Christian. Be like the writer of Psalm 119, who declared, “With my whole heart have I sought Thee: O let me not wander from Thy commandments” (verse 10).
I followed the Lord, but I kept some back,
Some of my heart and soul;
There were certain things that I still held dear,
Yes, I had a divided goal.
But I soon found out it could not be so,
I needed to make a fresh start:
To follow the Lord, who had died for me,
I must follow with all of my heart.
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