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.
Thursday, April 30, 2015
When Pharaoh finally let the people go, God did not lead them along the main road that runs through Philistine territory, even though that was the shortest route to the Promised Land. God said, "If the people are faced with a battle, they might change their minds and return to Egypt." (NLT) -Exodus 13:17
Rather than take the shortest, most direct route to the Promised Land, the Lord took them on a longer path to avoid the Philistines. Why? God knew they were weak and if forced with choosing between a battle or slavery they would rather be a slave. Are there situations where we choose to be a slave rather than battle? We can be slaves to our guilt, bitterness, or blame rather than do the work to be freed. Have you chosen to be a slave to your blame and resentment rather than do the work to forgive?
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Wednesday, April 29, 2015
Don't love money; be satisfied with what you have. For God has said, "I will never fail you. I will never abandon you." (NLT) -Hebrews 13:5
One of the greatest lies we are told is that money provides security. At the heart of our need for security is a fear of not having enough. At some point, when we believe this lie we put money higher than God and money is more trustworthy than God. But God has promised something greater than the lies money has told. God will never leave us. He will not abandon us, even after the security of money is gone. Are you satisfied with what you have?
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Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. (NLT) -Colossians 3:12
What would it look like if believers took this verse to heart? The business world would be a different place, driving during rush hour would be a different experience, and so too our own homes would be different. The world would be a better place. Do you think the world needs more mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, or patience? Choose one of these clothes and focus on wearing it this week.
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Tuesday, April 28, 2015
Not that I was ever in need, for I have learned how to be content with whatever I have. (NLT) -Philippians 4:11
Could you learn to be content without a new car, iPhone, or house? If we let them, our desires begin to control us with a never ending thirst that can't be quenched. It is a daily struggle to consistently trust that God will provide for our needs as He has promised. We can learn to be content when we rely on God's promises daily. When you find yourself wanting something today, try practicing contentment with what you have.
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After telling everyone good-bye, he went up into the hills by himself to pray. (NLT) -Mark 6:46
Prior to this verse Jesus had performed a miracle by feeding thousands with only a bit of food. His immediate reaction is to draw away to pray and rest. Praying has a way of filling you up with energy, restoring, and recharging. It's very important if we have intense schedules or physically demanding duties, we take time to reconnect with God and restore ourselves. If you are able, take today to draw away, in order to draw close to the Lord. If today isn't possible, plan a day this week to do this.
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Monday, April 27, 2015
The LORD is a warrior; Yahweh is his name! (NLT) -Exodus 15:3
Sometimes we are afraid to fight because we don't believe God wants any fighting to occur. However, there is a time and place to fight. A crucial role of a warrior is knowing when to fight, when not to, and who not to fight (such as fellow believers). The Lord is a warrior and we were designed to fight alongside Him against our fears, our addictions, protecting the poor and needy, bringing justice, or sharing freedom in Christ. What battles are you fighting? Are you bringing the Lord with you to fight your battles?
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Some of you were once like that. But you were cleansed; you were made holy; you were made right with God by calling on the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God. (NLT) -1 Corinthians 6:11
Do you think God is proud, uplifted, and pleased with you or do you think He's ashamed, disappointed, and disheartened by you? The beauty of this verse is that He's taken away all of the negatives and can see you for who you are at your best. Since this is true, are you living in that freedom? Take some time and truly answer this question: what does God think about when He thinks about you?
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Sunday, April 26, 2015
This is the blessing that Moses, the man of God, gave to the people of Israel before his death: (NLT) -Deuteronomy 33:1
Moses was told that very day it would be his last. Suppose for a minute, you knew you were about to say your last few words before you left this Earth. What would your words be like? Would you speak the real, bitter truth because you can? Or would you say sweet nice things so as to boost how you are remembered? Or would you be like Moses and rise above all of that and bless those who have made your struggles even more difficult and challenging? What do you want your last words to be? Don't wait for death to come to proclaim your blessings on 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
Then make me truly happy by agreeing wholeheartedly with each other, loving one another, and working together with one mind and purpose. (NLT) -Philippians 2:2
As Christians, we are the body of Christ. Disagreements will occur among each other. We have been called to love one another more than ourselves. It gets especially difficult when toes are stepped on and territories are jeopardized. When conflict happens put a lot of effort in working together to achieve His purpose. If we can't love someone who shares our same beliefs how could we show love to those who believe differently? Are you experiencing conflict with other believers?
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Saturday, April 25, 2015
And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them. (NLT) -Romans 8:28
How do you make sense of suffering when you see others walking through it or you are walking through it? It's wrong to assume it exclusively happens to punish sins. But what if we view suffering as something that God can use for good? No one claims to know everything about God or why He allows bad things to happen. Ultimately, our thoughts on suffering reflect our belief of God's character. Do you view God as good and He can use events to draw us closer to depend on Him?
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Friday, April 24, 2015
“There is no one like the God of Israel. He rides across the heavens to help you, across the skies in majestic splendor." (NLT) -Deuteronomy 33:26
Our God loves you very much and this verse paints a beautiful picture of how far God will go to help you. He won't do everything for you (even though He can). He wants to come alongside you to set you up for success, teach you lessons, and open doors for you to walk through. Why? There is no one like our God who goes to such lengths to be in relationship with you. Are there areas in your life where you expect Him to do all the work such as finances, job opportunity, or improving family relations?
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Faith's Checkbook: Condition of Blessing
Mal 3:10 - Bring ye all of the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the Lord of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it.
Source: Daily Faith - http://www.youdevotion.com/faith/april/24
He gives the childless woman a family, making her a happy mother. Praise the LORD! (NLT) -Psalm 113:9
Take joy in this verse and realize the power of the Lord. He can make a childless woman a happy mother! It may come through different circumstances. But the Lord has the power to change your heart or allow your dreams to materialize. If this verse speaks into your troubled heart, stand on this promise that the Lord is able and willing. In time, it's redeeming to see the results of this verse when life springs forward.
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Thursday, April 23, 2015
We always pray for you, and we give thanks to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. (NLT) -Colossians 1:3
You are being prayed over as a reader of this devotion. Sometimes it's a prayer for your spiritual growth and other times it's for protection. This is done not for personal gain, but as a child of God you are cared for and loved. Enjoy your blessings today because you yourself are considered a blessing.
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You also must be ready all the time, for the Son of Man will come when least expected. (NLT) -Matthew 24:44
Ever had a pop quiz where a teacher surprisingly hands out a quiz without any notice? If you have been studying and following along then you find yourself prepared for the unexpected. The same is true for Christ's return in that we have no way of knowing when it will happen. Are you making choices and living in a manner that means you are prepared for the unexpected return of Christ?
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Monday, April 20, 2015
No, we declare God’s wisdom, a mystery that has been hidden and that God destined for our glory before time began. None of the rulers of this age understood it, for if they had, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory. However, as it is written: “What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived” the things God has prepared for those who love him.
-1 Corinthians 2:7-9
But the angel said, "Don't be alarmed. You are looking for Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He isn't here! He is risen from the dead! Look, this is where they laid his body." (NLT) -Mark 16:6
Jesus was nailed to a cross because He said He was the Son of God. He died on that cross. After three days His body rose from the dead and was seen walking and talking with others. Today is the day we celebrate His resurrection. Because of His death, He paid the price for our sins and by believing in Him we can have eternal life. How has Christ's resurrection impacted your life?
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Sunday, April 19, 2015
Dear friends, let us continue to love one another, for love comes from God. Anyone who loves is a child of God and knows God. (NLT) -1 John 4:7
Being able to love others is a result of God in your life. It's not talking about romantic love either. Choosing to love someone in spite of their weaknesses or being generous to those without is the kind of love mentioned. As a child of God, do you take action and choose to sacrifice yourself and love others?
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Saturday, April 18, 2015
Turn to me and have mercy, for I am alone and in deep distress. My problems go from bad to worse. Oh, save me from them all! (NLT) -Psalm 25:16-17
Nothing is more disturbing than being in distress and all alone. Isn't this why people who don't believe in God turn to Him when there is no where else to turn? We don't have to walk alone though. God is literally dying for you to turn to Him for help with your problems. It doesn't take much. Just pray for God to guide and lead you in the right direction.
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Most importantly, I want to remind you that in the last days scoffers will come, mocking the truth and following their own desires. (NLT) -2 Peter 3:3
Days will come when we hear, read, or see scoffers who mock our beliefs. Hold firmly to your faith. Everyone will meet the Lord and account for their actions. You can stand firm in knowing your faith is stronger than the words of a cynic. Have you strengthened and grown your faith to withstand the pressures from nonbelievers?
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Friday, April 17, 2015
Fear the Lord and judge with integrity, for the Lord our God does not tolerate perverted justice, partiality, or the taking of bribes. (NLT) -2 Chronicles 19:7
Have you ever found yourself caught between two fighting people? Each has their side of the story which they think is right but yet you know the truth lies somewhere between the two stories. Take the road that leads to integrity. Don't choose sides but instead find ways to push grace in the conversation.
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And the crowd began pleading with Jesus to go away and leave them alone. (NLT) -Mark 5:17
As a result of Jesus healing a man, some livestock was lost. The nearby town refused entry to Jesus, fearful they would lose more income and security. Are you unconcerned with helping others because of what it might cost you? As the day goes by, we should be on the lookout for how we can positively affect others. Wouldn't it be tragic to be a resident in the town that has too much to lose, refuses to help you, and turns Jesus away?
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Thursday, April 16, 2015
The Lord told Gideon, "With these 300 men I will rescue you and give you victory over the Midianites. Send all the others home." (NLT) -Judges 7:7
Why would God lead Gideon into battle with an army of only 300 men against an army of 135,000 Midianites? Gideon placed his trust in the Lord even against overwhelming odds. When you feel that the odds are against your favor and the Lord is leading you into battle, remember Gideon. He went on to victory because he dutifully followed the Lord. When you feel the odds are stacked against you, could God be using you to demonstrate His strength?
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The Lord is for me, so I will have no fear. What can mere people do to me? (NLT) -Psalm 118:6
Fear, it leads to worry and obsession. It causes us to overreact or become paralyzed with inaction. When you feel the anxiety rising up in your throat and constant reminders abound to keep your broken record of thoughts swirling around, fear not. For the Lord is with you. If you seek Him, He will provide peace, comfort, and understanding. When the fear begins to rise up, conquer it! Do not let fear reign over you. The Lord is more powerful than fear.
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Tuesday, April 14, 2015
The Lord God placed the man in the Garden of Eden to tend and watch over it. (NLT) -Genesis 2:15
Do you dread Monday mornings? Work was God's first task to humans in the Garden of Eden. God didn't give us work to make us trudge along in our days. He did it so we could receive joy from our accomplishments, seek Him, and bring glory to His name. If you don't find what you are doing to be a labor of love, try changing your attitude. Or try changing your circumstances.
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Monday, April 13, 2015
"I tell you the truth, anyone who believes has eternal life. Yes, I am the bread of Life!" (NLT) -John 6:47-48
We all want to go to heaven and experience eternal life. Jesus teaches us that our belief in Him, as the Son of God, leads to heaven. If you have doubts about this truth, you're not alone. Christians continue to have this struggle but ultimately believe. On the days you have this struggle, just remember that you are not perfect. That's what faith is…not knowing for certain, but trusting.
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Sunday, April 12, 2015
With all my heart I will praise you, O Lord my God. I will give glory to your name forever. (NLT) -Psalm 86:12
Do you praise God in all that you do? There are many times in our day where our response could be anguish, exasperation, fury, or any other number of emotions. To walk through the day praising God for anything that comes your way gives much glory to God. So, if you find yourself in a situation today that doesn't bring out the best in you, pause and praise the Lord.
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With all my heart I will praise you, O Lord my God. I will give glory to your name forever. (NLT) -Psalm 86:12
Do you praise God in all that you do? There are many times in our day where our response could be anguish, exasperation, fury, or any other number of emotions. To walk through the day praising God for anything that comes your way gives much glory to God. So, if you find yourself in a situation today that doesn't bring out the best in you, pause and praise the Lord.
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Turn to me and have mercy, for I am alone and in deep distress. My problems go from bad to worse. Oh, save me from them all! (NLT) -Psalm 25:16-17
Nothing is more disturbing than being in distress and all alone. Isn't this why people who don't believe in God turn to Him when there is no where else to turn? We don't have to walk alone though. God is literally dying for you to turn to Him for help with your problems. It doesn't take much. Just pray for God to guide and lead you in the right direction.
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Turn to me and have mercy, for I am alone and in deep distress. My problems go from bad to worse. Oh, save me from them all! (NLT) -Psalm 25:16-17
Nothing is more disturbing than being in distress and all alone. Isn't this why people who don't believe in God turn to Him when there is no where else to turn? We don't have to walk alone though. God is literally dying for you to turn to Him for help with your problems. It doesn't take much. Just pray for God to guide and lead you in the right direction.
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Saturday, April 11, 2015
Faith's Checkbook: Close Fellowship
Jer 31:34 - And they shall teach no more every man his neighbor, and every man his brother, saying, Know the Lord: for they shall all know me, from the least of them unto the greatest of them, saith the Lord.
Source: Daily Faith - http://www.youdevotion.com/faith/april/11
Therefore, whenever we have the opportunity, we should do good to everyone - especially to those in the family of faith. (NLT) -Galatians 6:10
Who wants to be taken advantage of? No one. However, we are called to do good to everyone and not be selective in who we serve. Do you let fear of exploitation of your generosity keep you from sharing with others? It's a good thing Jesus didn't have this fear when He chose to die on the cross for sins He knew we would commit again and again.
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Friday, April 10, 2015
Let your conversation be gracious and attractive so that you will have the right response for everyone. (NLT) -Colossians 4:6
Everyone has different backgrounds, upbringings, and beliefs. Have you ever thought about what kinds of words are attractive to others? Everyone likes to be valued. Everyone likes to be accepted. Everyone likes to be encouraged. Are you weaving these words into difficult conversations with undertones of love?
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Turn away from evil and do good. Search for peace, and work to maintain it. (NLT) -1 Peter 3:11
Just like it takes diligence to maintain your car so too does it take work to maintain peace. It can be hard when peace doesn't come naturally. However, we should not compromise our beliefs in order to seek peace. But it is important to continuously be on the look out for where we can keep peace in our relationships and interactions.
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Tuesday, April 07, 2015
Again I say, don't get involved in foolish, ignorant arguments that only start fights. (NLT) -2 Timothy 2:23
Have you ever been in such an irritated mood that from one interaction to the next you were constantly in a battle? When you find yourself in this mindset, you are quicker to jump into arguments and stubborn enough to never back down. This behavior isn't Christ like or loving. Take some time away to cool down, recharge and regain the peace of the Lord.
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To one who listens, valid criticism is like a gold earring or other gold jewelry. (NLT) -Proverbs 25:12
Criticism can be tough to swallow. What if criticism were viewed as a prized possession that's wrapped with great care, presented with honor, and accepted with gratitude? The verse above points out that valid criticism only becomes precious to anyone who listens. When you listen to criticism are you listening for negativity or constructive gold?
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Monday, April 06, 2015
Don't you see how wonderfully kind, tolerant, and patient God is with you? Does this mean nothing to you? Can't you see that his kindness is intended to turn you from your sin? (NLT) -Romans 2:4
No one ever wants to be told they are living in sin. Nor do people want to feel condemned. It's a fine line on how to handle sin in others' lives. We can choose to follow God's leading in the same way He has treated us, that is, with patience and kindness. The greatest influence we can have on other peoples' sin is through leading by a humble example.
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Jesus replied, "Your mistake is that you don't know the Scriptures, and you don't know the power of God." (NLT) -Mark 12:24
Do you know what God is capable of? Have you experienced it in your life or read of it in the Bible? There's nothing like reading stories in the Bible and being able to apply them to your life today. Building your faith upon those who displayed great courage thousands of years ago honors God and His power. Don't make the same mistake as the religious leaders of Jesus' time.
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Saturday, April 04, 2015
But joyful are those who have the God of Israel as their helper, whose hope is in the Lord their God. (NLT) -Psalm 146:5
Where do you turn when your life turns into a mess? How do you pick up the pieces? A mess is always easier to clean when you have someone helping you. God is just waiting for you to invite Him into your mess.
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Friday, April 03, 2015
Protect me, for I am devoted to you. Save me, for I serve you and trust you. You are my God. (NLT) -Psalm 86:2
Sometimes circumstances happen just beyond the reach of your fingers. Sometimes God steps in and changes your direction. When you find yourself in a vulnerable position there are two very distinct attitudes you can take. The first is, "poor old me!" The second is trusting that God can turn any situation into good. Faith is trusting in God to have a purpose for every lesson He teaches you. Your direction may take a path that you don't want. But He knows better and will bring you through it.
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Faith's Checkbook: Sensitive to Warning
2 Kgs 22:19 - Because thine heart was tender, and thou hast humbled thyself before the Lord, when thou heardest what I spake against this place, and against the inhabitants thereof, that they should become a desolation and a curse, and hast rent thy clothes, and wept before me; I also have heard thee, saith the Lord.
Source: Daily Faith - http://www.youdevotion.com/faith/april/3
Who am I, O Lord God, and what is my family, that you have brought me this far? (NLT) -1 Chronicles 17:16
Have you looked back on your life to see how far God has brought you? Have you seen the protection of your family? The Lord has been good to you. Even though you have come through some tough times, the Lord has brought you very far. Go on, take a look back. Humble yourself before the Lord.
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Thursday, April 02, 2015
Those who control their tongue will have a long life; opening your mouth can ruin everything. (NLT) -Proverbs 13:3
Do you measure your words carefully? Do you filter and refine them before throwing them out for all to hear? Much can be communicated between words such as attitudes, values, and perceptions. Even as simple as changing a word can mean all the difference between offending someone or finessing a situation. It's easy to launch words for all to hear, but impossible to take them back. Yes, opening your mouth can ruin everything.
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When we get together, I want to encourage you in your faith, but I also want to be encouraged by yours. (NLT) -Romans 1:12
Each one of us walk different roads in our faith with God. While it takes a lot of courage to open up our wounds, it's also good to share stories of faith with friends. Each person walks away reminded of the blessings from God in their own lives as well as encouraged to see the work of God in others' lives. Do you have other believers you can share in your journey with?
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Wednesday, April 01, 2015
"I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never be hungry again. Whoever believes in me will never be thirsty. (NLT) -John 6:35
Hunger for food is a feeling we get every single day. It is usually a sensation we feel that reminds us we need sustenance. Jesus is also a spiritual bread that sustains us to give us strength to keep on walking. Do you have an internal reminder that lets you know when you are not being spiritually fed? If you aren't growing or maturing it may be time to make some changes in your daily routine, local church, or Bible study.
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I have not stopped thanking God for you. I pray for you constantly… (NLT) -Ephesians 1:16
What kinds of things do you pray for when you pray to Jesus? Do you ask for Him to give you good health, financial success, or a shiny new car? Many times when we approach God we ask for things that only benefit ourselves. Yet we meet with loved ones in the middle of great trials who pour out their hearts to us. You can help them. Use your voice and petition God on their behalf. When you pray today, remember to serve others through your prayer.
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