Matthew 3:16-17 King James Version (KJV) 16 And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him: 17 And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.
Friday, January 30, 2015
You have six days each week for your ordinary work, but on the seventh day you must stop working, even during the seasons of plowing and harvest. (NLT) -Exodus 34:21
Even God Himself recognized the Sabbath when He created the earth. So too must we recognize the seventh day. This verse even includes seasons where the work is plentiful and demands more of our time. We should still be vigilant in honoring God whether it be tax season, Christmas season, or cleaning season.
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A Jewish man was traveling on a trip from Jerusalem to Jericho, and he was attacked by bandits. They stripped him of his clothes, beat him up, and left him half dead beside the road. By chance a priest came along. But when he saw the man lying there, he crossed to the other side of the road and passed him by. (NLT) -Luke 10:30-31
When you see someone in need, do you secretly pout and groan inside? Being a Christian we are responsible to help others. However, sometimes we turn the other way and cross to the other side of the road. A lot of times we just don't want to get involved, lose time, or hear a sob story. Be generous with your mercy.
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Thursday, January 29, 2015
Let my teaching fall on you like rain; let my speech settle like dew. Let my words fall like rain on tender grass, like gentle showers on young plants. (NLT) -Deuteronomy 32:2
When dew comes, it permeates everything and there's nothing it doesn't touch. Wouldn't it be neat if we allow God's words to do the same in our lives? If we allowed it to permeate all areas of our lives, where would you see God working in you? Maybe it's facing your fear of failure, reconnecting with your estranged brother, or treating your girlfriend with respect. In any case, invite God to shower you with His teachings and be courageous enough to take them to heart and make a change.
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Faith's Checkbook: Obedience Brings Blessing
Deut 12:28 - Observe and hear all these words, which I command thee, that it may go well with thee, and with thy children after thee for ever, when thou doest that which is good and right in the sight of the Lord thy God.
Source: Daily Faith - http://www.youdevotion.com/faith/january/29
Let my teaching fall on you like rain; let my speech settle like dew. Let my words fall like rain on tender grass, like gentle showers on young plants. (NLT) -Deuteronomy 32:2
When dew comes, it permeates everything and there's nothing it doesn't touch. Wouldn't it be neat if we allow God's words to do the same in our lives? If we allowed it to permeate all areas of our lives, where would you see God working in you? Maybe it's facing your fear of failure, reconnecting with your estranged brother, or treating your girlfriend with respect. In any case, invite God to shower you with His teachings and be courageous enough to take them to heart and make a change.
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Wednesday, January 28, 2015
Then everyone will see the Son of Man coming on a cloud with power and great glory. (NLT) -Luke 21:27
Christ left us with a promise that one day He will come back with glory. While times may only get tougher we know a sweet, beautiful reward is being fulfilled. Because of these hard times we know we get closer to the return of the Lord. As you walk through today, remember the cloud is coming and everyone will see it too.
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Tuesday, January 27, 2015
For you are all children of God through faith in Christ Jesus. (NLT) -Galatians 3:26
Is this a hall pass where we get to do whatever pleases us because of our faith in Christ? No way! But if you are feeling unworthy of God's love because of what you have done lately, take heart. God loves you still. This is just a reminder we can easily get out of balance between performing good works and believing those good works will make us right with God. Reflecting back, have you ever become out of balance between the two?
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For you are all children of God through faith in Christ Jesus. (NLT) -Galatians 3:26
It's easy to get carried away thinking good works and acts of kindness will make us right with God. Sometimes we put so much faith in our our own abilities that we lose the need for God. However, the Bible is very clear we cannot do enough good deeds to enter heaven. Be comforted in knowing our faith in Jesus will cover us. Yet, even if we believe, it is still easy to slip into performance based thinking where we must accomplish X,Y, and Z in order for God to love us.
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Monday, January 26, 2015
Send me a sign of your favor. Then those who hate me will be put to shame, for you, O LORD, help and comfort me. (NLT) -Psalm 86:17
We all need signs from God every now and then to get through life. It's not just a sign for ourselves, but for other people to recognize. This, in turn, speaks to those who may not have a relationship with Him. When you turn to God for comfort in desperate times it strengthens your relationship with God. Remember, He cares.
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But people who long to be rich fall into temptation and are trapped by many foolish and harmful desires that plunge them into ruin and destruction. (NLT) -1 Timothy 6:9
Ask around and everyone will tell you they wish they had more money. But yet, more than likely, there is food on the table and clothes on their backs. We must be diligent in our thoughts to avoid longing to be rich. This greediness leaves us vulnerable to take risks that lead to ruin all for the sake of being rich. Seek out contentment in the Lord and you will receive many blessings.
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Sunday, January 25, 2015
"Physical training is good, but training for godliness is much better, promising benefits in this life and in the life to come." (NLT) -1 Timothy 4:8
Do you have a regular exercise routine that you follow? We all know the benefits of strengthening our muscles, burning off fat, and building up our heart. Do you also have a regular faith routine you follow? The benefits of strengthening our faith are much greater than anything else because the effects are eternal. If you find yourself without a routine or have fallen out of schedule, start one. Pick out some reading plans in the Bible, write daily in a prayer journal, visit your local Christian bookstore. Whatever you choose, make sure you train for godliness.
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Faith's Checkbook: He Acts on Honest Confession
Job 33:27-28 - He looketh upon men, and if any say, I have sinned, and perverted that which was right, and it profited me not; he will deliver his soul from going into the pit, and his life shall see the light.
Source: Daily Faith - http://www.youdevotion.com/faith/january/25
Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. (NLT) -Hebrews 10:24
Do you ever find yourself conversing with someone and you walk away very drained? While it's never fun to be in that situation, it is a good reminder to make sure our own words do not drain others. How can we be uplifting in our words? Use encouragement, reveal your concern for the other person, or ask questions to encourage a two-sided conversation. Try this and you will find you have made a positive impact on someone's day. This positive impact will motivate them to be open to doing acts of love.
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Saturday, January 24, 2015
For we live by believing and not by seeing. (NLT) -2 Corinthians 5:7
A wise man once said, when you step off the cliff in faith God will either give you wings to fly or catch you if you fall. As a believer, when we die we don't have anything to be fearful for because we will join the Lord in heaven. That's where faith steps in. In an act of good faith, God gave us the Holy Spirit for reassurance to His promise of heaven. As you go through today, enjoy the gift of life you've been given in a way that is pleasing to God by embracing and valuing your life.
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Don't look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too. (NLT) -Philippians 2:4
What are you doing to raise up and grow the faiths of others? Are you investing back into the community of your church from which you receive much yourself? Be intentional about taking an interest in someone else's faith. Leverage the relationship with your children's friends to bring them to church. Mentor someone and help them grow to be a better person. Tap into your connections to help a friend find work. This week identify someone you want to reach out to, strategize how you can assist them, make an action plan, then follow through.
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Friday, January 23, 2015
For forty years you sustained them in the wilderness, and they lacked nothing. Their clothes did not wear out, and their feet did not swell! (NLT) -Nehemiah 9:21
Do you feel like you are walking in the wilderness? Are you directionless and not feeling equipped to handle the journey? Reflect back on your life and recall times when God provided for you. There's always a pattern. God will give you exactly what you need at exactly the right time you need it. Remembering this truth will give you strength on your wilderness walk. If you feel exhausted, inadequate, or helpless today, look for God's sustenance. Sometimes it comes in the smallest way.
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Thursday, January 22, 2015
So at the sound of the musical instruments, all the people, whatever their race or nation or language, bowed to the ground and worshiped the gold statue that King Nebuchadnezzar had set up. (NLT) -Daniel 3:7
Are you a people pleaser and is it more important to gain the acceptance of others at any cost? Could it be possible you would bow down because you were told to? These days we don't have gold statues for idols, but we do have corporate cultures, politics, and celebrities all demanding your worship. Pay attention to the pressure you feel and work on standing firm in God. A time will come when it's up to you to decide for yourself if you will bow down.
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They must not slander anyone and must avoid quarreling. Instead, they should be gentle and show true humility to everyone. (NLT) -Titus 3:2
When mistreated, do you speak badly about that person to others? How you portray that person gives great insight into your integrity. If you are willing to humble yourself to protect that person's image, that shows humility! This is truly a mark of integrity. After all, isn't it a reflection of ourselves in how we characterize others when walking in conflict? The next time a friend wrongs you, choose your words carefully when you speak about them.
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Wednesday, January 21, 2015
Our days on earth are like grass; like wildflowers, we bloom and die. (NLT) -Psalm 103:15
You are growing into a beautiful blossom that God has lovingly planted and nurtured. Learn your strengths and use them to give glory to God. Use your blossom for God's purposes and leverage your beauty for His kingdom. After all, you were planted for a reason.
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Tuesday, January 20, 2015
Submit to God, and you will have peace; then things will go well for you. (NLT) -Job 22:21
Do you ever put your hopes into plans and goals? When things don't work out, you end up grieving over the death of a dream. God wants to give us the desires of our hearts, but we first need to turn them over to Him. Only after submitting to Him can He help you rebuild that dream. Then the fun begins!
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As a door swings back and forth on its hinges, so the lazy person turns over in bed. (NLT) -Proverbs 26:14
Ouch! We're all guilty of hitting the snooze button and turning over. Of course, we take shortcuts in life. But do we ever filter through our behaviors pointing out traits of laziness? Are you cheating yourself out of God's best for you by taking an easy route?
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Monday, January 19, 2015
God has told his people, "Here is a place of rest; let the weary rest here. This is a place of quiet rest." But they would not listen. (NLT) -Isaiah 28:12
It's important to take God's cue for rest. He is well aware of the journey ahead and it would be wise to heed His prompting. To some, it may mean paying closer attention to your body by caring for it. To others, it could be taking a day of rest from work. However it may look to you, be sure to rest when God picks out your spot to rest.
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Sunday, January 18, 2015
Bless those who persecute you. Don't curse them; pray that God will bless them. (NLT) -Romans 12:14
How can someone really have an attitude of blessing towards the person who persecutes you? It's counter-intuitive. The only way is by changing your thoughts towards the persecution. If you really believed that persecution will make you a better, stronger person then it will change your heart towards the persecutor. Do you believe in the power of persecution?
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Patient endurance is what you need now, so that you will continue to do God's will. Then you will receive all that he has promised. (NLT) -Hebrews 10:36
How do you handle unsolicited criticism? Does your pride get hurt after you've done your best and still are scoffed at? How do you handle criticism from other Christians for doing the will of God? Yes, it's difficult. But you need to carry on with a patient endurance. This endurance you can surely draw from your faith to overcome any criticism.
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Saturday, January 17, 2015
Go and announce to them that the Kingdom of Heaven is near. (NLT) -Matthew 10:7
Do you serve as a reminder to others about the Kingdom of Heaven? It doesn't necessarily mean by word, but it can be done through action. The Kingdom of Heaven works differently than the earthly kingdom. Be a light for others through uncommon justice, love, and peace. We live in a temporal world and it is unwise to count on tomorrow to share this news. Since, for some, tomorrow may never come.
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He calmed the storm to a whisper and stilled the waves. (NLT) -Psalm 107:29
Are the waves overcoming you? Never fear, for the Lord has the power to calm the storm to a mere whisper. All you need is to seek Him. If you are not dedicated in seeking His face regularly, set up safeguards. Get involved in a weekly Bible study, there you will learn and grow with other people who will keep you grounded. Read faith books or listen to worship music. Make a conscious effort to make time for the Lord. The most important thing is to seek the Lord to calm your storm.
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Friday, January 16, 2015
But after a while the brook dried up, for there was no rainfall anywhere in the land. (NLT) -1 Kings 17:7
God blesses us with provisions daily, whether we recognize them or not. Sometimes the provisions God gives us dry up. Maybe a car breaks down, a job is lost, or a tree falls on your house. The important thing to remember is to not panic. God will make a new way. This is not the time to question God's goodness because the brook dried up. It is the time to trust that God will show you His love for you by preparing a new source of provision.
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"I am the true grapevine, and my Father is the gardener." (NLT) -John 15:1
Don't we all occasionally feel like we've just had a good pruning? As a gardener, our heavenly Father will mold and shape us to be a beautiful masterpiece. At times it hurts. In the end we are fruitful because of His skillful hands. Stay open to the work God is doing in your life. In which area of your life would you like to be fruitful? Invite the gardener in.
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Thursday, January 15, 2015
"Come now, let's settle this," says the Lord. "Though your sins are like scarlet, I will make them as white as snow. Though they are red like crimson, I will make them as white as wool." (NLT) -Isaiah 1:18
Everyone is walking around stained with sins. God has the power to settle it once and for all. No matter how hard we try to fix, ignore, or run away, He alone can wash away the red stains. What sins are you still holding onto? Ask God to cleanse you of your sins today. Then enjoy His grace.
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Fact is the general public doesn't know that most of these tracks and messages coming out talking down about me and calling me the devil, sinner, and false prophet I actually wrote because I am no ones false prophet and do not want to be anyone's false idol.
Fact is with the spiritual and mental battles and changes occurring over the past few years I had forgotten that myself.
Beachem Cockroft 01.15.2015
Rise up! Help us! Ransom us because of your unfailing love. (NLT) -Psalm 44:26
Is God answering your prayer today? We often pray for safety, recovery and blessings. Sometimes it appears that God is working on your prayers and sometimes you just want to scream "Rise up!" The truth is that God works in many ways and your way may not be His way. Whether the outcome is an apparent miracle or a cry for mercy, God's love is unfailing. Learn to trust in Him completely and you will understand the reason for the outcome.
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Tuesday, January 13, 2015
A good person produces good things from the treasury of a good heart, and an evil person produces evil things from the treasury of an evil heart. What you say flows from what is in your heart. (NLT) -Luke 6:45
Why do we disconnect our hearts from our mouths? In actuality, the words we say are a reflection of our heart. If your mind focuses on picky details, comparisons and judgments then, of course, your mouth will pour out words of criticism. But if you revere someone with honor and reverence then naturally, words of respect will follow. Try monitoring your words to get a glimpse into your heart.
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Monday, January 12, 2015
But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint. (NLT) -Isaiah 40:31
Come one, come all, everyone who is tired. If you are exhausted and feel heavy like you've been hit by a truck, there is hope. You will once again soar. It is time to look to the Lord and trust Him to rejuvenate you. Give rest to your body and He will give you the endurance you need to continue.
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Sunday, January 11, 2015
Saturday, January 10, 2015
For the Lord disciplines those he loves, and he punishes each one he accepts as his child. (NLT) -Hebrews 12:6
Do you feel like God is disciplining you? Take comfort and know that He is not attacking you. Your discipline is a result of His love for you. It will make you a better person and in hindsight the lesson will be valuable. Take each day as it comes and accept His love for you.
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Spouting off before listening to the facts is both shameful and foolish. (NLT) -Proverbs 18:13
Have you ever accused someone based upon limited knowledge? It's always embarrassing being set straight with the facts after you just revealed yourself to be a fool. Let's not forget that shameful feeling. Instead, let's use it as fuel to probe out the truth with an open heart instead of spouting off on half-based truth.
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Friday, January 09, 2015
As a dog returns to its vomit, so a fool repeats his foolishness. (NLT) -Proverbs 26:11
Our body vomits when it rejects food. There are habits and behaviors that we form that are not healthy. Even after recognizing the unhealthiness, we still return to those behaviors. A faith with Christ requires us to continually renew and better ourselves. Are there any foolish behaviors you continue to return to even when you have already rejected it?
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And if you are untrustworthy about worldly wealth, who will trust you with the true riches of heaven? (NLT) -Luke 16:11
Yes, we are being interviewed. God has riches in heaven that need looking after, will He trust you with them? The best way to predict future behavior is to examine past experiences and project forward. Have you been wise in your handling of your wealth? If not, it's never too late to start.
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Thursday, January 08, 2015
"If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God whom we serve is able to save us. He will rescue us from your power, Your Majesty. But even if he doesn't, we want to make it clear to you, You Majesty, that we will never serve your gods or worship the gold statue you have set up." (NLT) -Daniel 3:17-18
A lot of times we have our faith backwards. If God does XYZ, then I will believe. But these men had a powerful faith. Even if God didn't save them from death, they still stood their ground. Why must we have conditions met before we will stick our neck out for God? It comes down to trust. Will you still trust in God even if it appears God didn't come through?
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Wednesday, January 07, 2015
The Lord is compassionate and merciful, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love. (NLT) -Psalm 103:8
The key to battling anger is fighting it away with unfailing love for others. If you really love someone you will put yourself in the other persons shoes. They too are a son or daughter of Christ and should be treated as such. How long can you endure before you get angry? Challenge yourself to increase your tolerance for your anger.
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Monday, January 05, 2015
And this righteousness will bring peace. Yes, it will bring quietness and confidence forever. (NLT) -Isaiah 32:17
There will be a day when the Lord will bring everlasting peace. Though that time hasn't come, yet, we can still have temporary peace. Call on the Holy Spirit to bring quietness to your soul. Take time to meditate on an uplifting scripture. Get some fresh air to ease your body. Be at rest with the Lord.
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Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance. (NLT) -1 Corinthians 13:7
The love Paul is referring to is different than puppy love or our favorite ice cream. This type of love is self-sacrificial, never ending, and unconditional. We are called to love prickly relatives, ostracized neighbors, and hurtful enemies in this way. This love for others defines and gives purpose to our lives on earth. How are you sharing your love with others?
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No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.
-Romans 8:37-39
Sunday, January 04, 2015
Jesus said to the people who believed in him, "You are truly my disciples if you remain faithful to my teachings. And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." (NLT) -John 8:31-32
A disciple is a student. We are constantly learning and growing as a disciple of Jesus. We must put into practice the knowledge we learn through our studies in the Bible and remain faithful. As we delve deeper, the truth of Jesus Christ will be revealed to us and in this truth we will gain freedom from sin. As sinners we are slaves to sin, but if we are dedicated disciples we can choose to overcome this slavery.
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You must warn each other every day, while it is still "today," so that none of you will be deceived by sin and hardened against God. (NLT) -Hebrews 3:13
Have you ever seen anyone deceived by sin? It's easy to recognize from a distance, but it demonstrates just how vulnerable everyone is to deception. We talk ourselves into believing lies. Our hearts become hardened when we no longer care about respected opinions and shut out Godly influences. This is how a highly respected person can soon live a disgraceful life. Let's warn each other. And be wise enough to receive such warnings with openness.
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Saturday, January 03, 2015
Too much talk leads to sin. Be sensible and keep your mouth shut. (NLT) -Proverbs 10:19
Over sharing too much information, failing to consider others' feelings, dominating the conversation, demanding tone, boasting about ourselves, etc. Oh how to count the ways our words can lead to sin! Solomon gives wise advice to anyone who closes their mouths long enough to listen. Be sensible, enough said.
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...and let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. (NLT) -Hebrews 12:1
We all get frustrated and lose our drive for perseverance which ultimately affects our race. How is it that we lose our endurance? It's when we take our eyes off of Christ and start focusing on our own circumstances that we begin to slow down. When it comes to running, the key to keeping up endurance is pacing yourself. Let's pace ourselves with Christ.
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Friday, January 02, 2015
But God gives to some the gift of marriage, and to others the gift of singleness. (NLT) -1 Corinthians 7:7
Singleness is a gift. Marriage is a gift. Paul writes that both of these statuses are gifts. Don't buy into the cultural belief that you need to be married to be happy. Nor should you view marriage as a ball and chain. If you are dissatisfied with the gift God has given you, then ask God to change your view on your status. Whether you recognize it or not, you are blessed with a gift.
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He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams. (NLT) -Psalm 23:2
You are right, there is a lot of work to be done. However, it will always be there when you come back. Allow the Lord to guide you to rest. He has just the perfect little spot picked out for you, it's full of luscious green plants and is filled with tranquil noises. Take a break. You can't keep God waiting on you forever to lead you to peace. You will come to realize after a rest you will be more productive.
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Thursday, January 01, 2015
As the Scriptures say, "No one is righteous - not even one." (NLT) -Romans 3:10
Do you look around at others who may not be as faithful as you and get angry? Do you wonder how they could behave the way they do and hope God punishes them for what they deserve? After all, you've always gone to church. Unfortunately, that kind of thinking has a self-righteous tone when we compare ourselves to others. Don't get sucked into thinking that way because it will hold you captive to anger. Apart from Jesus, everyone is a sinner.
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Teach me to do your will for you are my God. May your gracious Spirit lead me forward on a firm footing. (NLT) -Psalm 143:10
Have you ever wondered what is God's will in your life? Don't you wish He would just send it in the mail to eliminate any confusion? It's worth pointing out that David didn't ask the same thing. Instead, he asks for God to teach him to do His will. Imagine if you learned to do God's will how the uncertainty would be eliminated. Let's allow the Spirit to lead us on solid ground by asking God to teach us.
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