Saturday, May 30, 2015
Because of our faith, Christ has brought us into this place of undeserved privilege where we now stand, and we confidently and joyfully look forward to sharing God's glory. (NLT) -Romans 5:2
It's hard to comprehend, but we stand in the middle of undeserved privilege when we put our faith in Christ. The word privilege is defined as a right or immunity granted as a benefit. We are granted immunity from our sins which had separated us from God. Now we can joyfully be in His presence and await the day we can share His glory. How do you gracefully share undeserved privilege without pridefully looking down on others?
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Friday, May 29, 2015
But the words you speak come from the heart--that's what defiles you. (NLT) -Matthew 15:18
Do you ever notice harsh words leak out of your mouth uncontrollably in certain situations? Try as you may, you can't always hold back. The problem is not with your tongue or mind, but it's a heart issue. A root of anger and bitterness have taken hold. If you let it grow and fester, it only gets worse and everyone bears the brunt of your anger. Can you identify why you are angry? Gather the courage to get resolution, face it head on, and stop your bleeding heart.
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Thursday, May 28, 2015
May God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ give you grace and peace. (NLT) -Romans 1:7
Some days we need just a bit more grace and a bit more peace than others. Busyness, drama, and life circumstances pull out every last ounce of patience. By the end of the day, it feels like we are just barely hanging on. When you feel your patience wearing thin, step away. Get a moment of distance to recenter yourself around Christ. He will give you the grace and patience you are seeking to give to others.
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Wednesday, May 27, 2015
Don't forget to show hospitality to strangers, for some who have done this have entertained angels without realizing it! (NLT) -Hebrews 13:2
Is it possible an angel has dined at your table? Have you ever shown hospitality to a stranger? If the answer is yes, well done faithful servant! Imagine how believers would be received among nonbelievers if we had a reputation of showing uncommon kindness to strangers. What are some thoughtful ways you could show hospitality to strangers this week?
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There is no greater love than to lay down one's life for one's friends. (NLT) -John 15:13
To love is to sacrifice for another person's well being. What greater sacrifice is there than to lose your life serving, protecting, and defending those you love? Then there are those who sacrifice their lives not even knowing who it is they are sacrificing their lives for. Take a moment today and honor those who have given up their lives for our country. Remember them in prayer and acknowledge their greatest sacrifice.
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Monday, May 25, 2015
Then he asked them, "Why are you afraid? Do you still have no faith?" (NLT) -Mark 4:40
The disciples had been with Jesus enough to see many miracles done but yet they underestimated the power He had to control the wind. You may not be aware of your fears, but they drive at the heart of your words, actions, and attitudes. Take a moment and think about your fears. Now, think about each time Jesus has performed miracles in your life. When you uncover your fears and approach them with His past faithfulness, your fears will lose all control. Do you allow your fears to overtake your faith?
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God blesses those who mourn, for they will be comforted. (NLT) -Matthew 5:4
Are you in mourning? It's difficult knowing you won't be together with that person anymore. Friends and family members don't always know what to say and sometimes can cause more heartache. However, God knows how to comfort you. You are not walking through this alone, He is at your side. Cry out to the Lord when you feel at a loss, He will soothe your distress.
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Sunday, May 24, 2015
Do not withhold good from those who deserve it when it's in your power to help them. (NLT) -Proverbs 3:27
Is there anybody who doesn't deserve good? Honestly, no. Grace enters the equation where everyone is made in the image of God. No matter what someone has done, we are called to do good. What does it look like for you? Maybe it's lending your tools out, perhaps it's aiding an older person to figure out their medicine, or being an exercise partner to a neighbor. What good would you like done for you? Now, choose to do that for someone else today.
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Saturday, May 23, 2015
When God's people are in need, be ready to help them. Always be eager to practice hospitality. (NLT) -Romans 12:13
Have you recently wished someone would open their home to you and provide a meal? Why do we reserve this time for only the closest relationships or remain private during this time? Eating a meal together breaks down barriers and builds up relationships. If you wish someone would be hospitable towards you, turn those thoughts around and be the first to extend an invitation to get to know an acquaintance or mend an old friendship. Make the world a better place, practice the often forgotten art of hospitality.
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And all the believers met together in one place and shared everything they had. (NLT) -Acts 2:44
From the moment of birth we are on a trajectory toward gaining our own independence. It's a principle our society values, but it does little to further our relationship with Christ or dependence on other believers. Performance and competition puts "I" before "we." While these thoughts are okay, they do little to bring us toward the body of Christ and leave us forfeiting the prize of the strength gained in community. If you are feeling lonely, seek out community. If the thought of community scares you, take a step of faith forward toward God with a group of believers.
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Friday, May 22, 2015
As you know, you Philippians were the only ones who gave me financial help when I first brought you the Good News and then traveled on from Macedonia. No other church did this. (NLT) -Philippians 4:15
Paul became a great missionary for spreading the Good News of Jesus Christ. He relied on God to provide for his needs. God used the Philippians to support Paul while he sacrificed much. Do you know someone who is sacrificing in order to spread the gospel? We can support them in ways few others will with our finances, prayers, and care packages. These few efforts on our behalf help spread the Kingdom of God to many. God accepts our support as a sweet-smelling sacrifice which is pleasing to Him.
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Thursday, May 21, 2015
He gives food to every living thing. His faithful love endures forever. (NLT) -Psalm 136:25
Have you given thanks to the Lord for your food? It's easy to rush quickly through a well-rehearsed prayer to enjoy the feast before you and your loved ones. Yet, the food we eat was given to us by a loving heavenly Father. Have you ever given thanks to God for yummy tomatoes in your salad or fresh guacamole with crispy chips? As odd as it may sound, these are provided to you from the Lord as a symbol of His love and it's an opportunity to express our gratitude. As you eat your next meal, what specifically are you grateful for?
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Build my altar wherever I cause my name to be remembered, and I will come to you and bless you. (NLT) -Exodus 20:24
We can recall the times of God's faithfulness to us when we think back and count our blessings such as remission from cancer, a job transition, or the birth of a child. However, we can go a step further and proactively remind ourselves of His goodness. Have you ever built an altar to remind you of who God is and what He has done for you? Could you imagine walking through your home seeing a stone written with words commemorating each time God proved faithful? It is a proactive, physical way to jog your memory of God's faithfulness. When difficult times come, all you need to do is look around to see God's blessings you've long forgotten!
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Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
-Philippians 4:6-7
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Wednesday, May 20, 2015
Stop deceiving yourselves. If you think you are wise by this world's standards, you need to become a fool to be truly wise. (NLT) -1 Corinthians 3:18
In this world we tend to rely on logic and reason which are the worlds version of wisdom. However sometimes logic and reason are contrary to our faith. When someone hurts you, its logical to hurt them back. Our faith in Christ is foolish to the world because we give someone grace who doesn't deserve it. Logic doesnt always apply to relationships and feelings. Is there someone in your life who needs grace even though logic and reason would deny them? If so, what steps can you take to extend grace?
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For our present troubles are small and won't last very long. Yet they produce for us a glory that vastly outweighs them and will last forever! (NLT) -2 Corinthians 4:17
As big as our problems may seem, we are always bound to find someone whose problems are bigger. In some small way it is comforting to know our troubles won't last long in comparison to eternity. Yet, the glory we gain for our troubles is much greater and lasts forever. Be consoled in knowing your hardships make Christ's suffering for you even more personal, He knows what you are walking through. When your troubles get too big, look beyond this life and see Christ up close and personal.
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Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable. So I do not run aimlessly; I do not box as one beating the air. But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified.
-1 Corinthians 9:25-27
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Tuesday, May 19, 2015
For God was in Christ, reconciling the world to himself, no longer counting people's sins against them. And he gave us this wonderful message of reconciliation. (NLT) -2 Corinthians 5:19
God is a stranger to sin and it's something He cannot be around. Jesus lived and died to bring us back to God by taking responsibility for our sin. Our sins are no longer counted against us and we can be in relationship with God! This is a beautiful message of grace, mercy, and forgiveness. When we understand the importance of this message, it's natural to encourage others to embrace the harmony they can have with God. Have you found your personal way of sharing this message with others?
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Faith's Checkbook: We May Speak for God
Jer 15:19 - Therefore thus saith the Lord, If thou return, then will I bring thee again, and thou shalt stand before me: and if thou take forth the precious from the vile, thou shalt be as my mouth.
Source: Daily Faith - http://www.youdevotion.com/faith/may/19
Those who are dominated by the sinful nature think about sinful things, but those who are controlled by the Holy Spirit think about things that please the Spirit. (NLT) -Romans 8:5
Our thoughts have a great impact on us. Our thoughts are what impact our words and actions. When your mind is not in a good place you can be hurtful in words and deeds. Yet often our mind gets burdened by anxiety, despair, and fear. If you notice the circular thoughts, stop them by changing the direction of your thoughts. Don't allow your mind to be dominated! Focus on ways you can show mercy to others or what you can say to respond with a gentle tone. Focus on things that please the Spirit.
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Monday, May 18, 2015
The LORD is like a father to his children, tender and compassionate to those who fear him. (NLT) -Psalm 103:13
Sometimes it can be difficult to think of the Lord in terms of a father. Our earthly, albeit human, father may not have loved us the way we feel loved or even abandoned us altogether. There can be a gap left between what was modeled by our earthly father and how our heavenly Father loves us. Yet we know God is tender and compassionate. We must find it in our hearts to forgive our father so that we may fully experience the love of our Father. Pray your heavenly Father will help you uncover and release any roots of anger or bitterness as you walk in relationship with Him.
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Sunday, May 17, 2015
It is good to give thanks to the LORD, to sing praises to the Most High. (NLT) -Psalm 92:1
Have you ever heard a song on the radio which just moved you inside? You want to listen to it over and over again because it touched you and made you feel something. Have you ever thought about turning it into a song of praise? It doesn't expressly have to be a song about God, but we can sing or hum along as if we are singing to God. Turn it into a love song where your heart is moved towards God since we know He looks at the heart.
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A wise woman builds her home, but a foolish woman tears it down with her own hands. (NLT) -Proverbs 14:1
This verse is a great reminder of the power both men and women have in creating a home. We have the capacity to build up or tear down our spouses, children, or parents. Public recognition goes a long way to announce respect. Gentle correction is a form of grace that communicates value. Physical embrace is the reassuring touch that conveys a feeling of belonging. Each one of these combine to build a home and family. Be on the lookout for areas to build your home.
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For God alone, O my soul, wait in silence, for my hope is from him. He only is my rock and my salvation, my fortress; I shall not be shaken. On God rests my salvation and my glory; my mighty rock, my refuge is God. Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your heart before him; God is a refuge for us.
-Psalms 62:5-8
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Friday, May 15, 2015
I will make you into a great nation. I will bless you and make you famous, and you will be a blessing to others. (NLT) -Genesis 12:2
This passage gives us great insight into God view's on blessings. He blesses people and gives them a position of influence so they can share their blessings to others. He blesses us to show us His love for us and so that we can share His love to others. We often think that blessings are for our exclusive use, but that is not the case. Our selfish inclinations keep us from blessing others, but is there anything we can do to combat that? It could be as simple as bringing a friend along when you use a gift card. Or as extravagant as selling your treasures to benefit a needy family.
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Thursday, May 14, 2015
"And I have personally appointed Oholiab son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan, to be his assistant. Moreover, I have given special skill to all the gifted craftsmen so they can make all the things I have commanded you to make:" (NLT) -Exodus 31:6
Do you ever get down on yourself and think you don't have any skills to offer? It's not true, God has given you many skills. Thinking you don't have any skills is not humility, instead, you fail to correctly see your blessings given to you by God. We even devalue our skills when we compare ourselves to others and wish we had their skills. Those thoughts are not complimenting towards God either. God has given skills to everyone and by embracing them we can truly use our skills to worship God. Take a moment to correctly identify your skills and embrace them to honor God.
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Joseph, her fiance, was a good man and did not want to disgrace her publicly, so he decided to break the engagement quietly. (NLT) -Matthew 1:19
Mary became pregnant with Jesus after she was engaged to Joseph. Imagine how Joseph must have felt when he learned his fiancee was pregnant, not knowing who the father was. Anger, bitterness, and betrayal had to have been stirring in his heart. He was justified to publicly stone her for her actions. Yet, being the man he was, he chose to quietly walk away. Fortunately, an angel stepped in and set him straight about the Father. When you feel anger, bitterness, betrayal and have every right to retaliate, how can you extend grace and mercy to your circumstances?
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Wednesday, May 13, 2015
Don't copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God's will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect. (NLT) -Romans 12:2
Ever feel the tug? We find ourselves living in a culture full of exciting, glitz and glam. Yet we know it is hollow. Our belief in Christ tells us to seek God's will which is perfect. It means we allow God to change the way we think and our values. The world values money, power, fame, and pride. Yet, we consistently read the Kingdom of God values generosity, grace, mercy, and humility. By reading the Bible and allowing God to change us we can resist the temptations of the worldly values.
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Monday, May 11, 2015
There is joy for those who deal justly with others and always do what is right. (NLT) -Psalm 106:3
Have you ever found yourself between two fighting friends who wanted you to choose a side? In that moment, they want you to validate they are correct. However, this verse reminds us to put aside favorites or personal differences and seek the truth. Evaluate the facts and not opinions. Our search for truth doesn't stop with this scenario. It also applies to jury duty, parenting, and even office politics.
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Thus says the LORD: Let not the wise man boast in his wisdom, let not the mighty man boast in his might, let not the rich man boast in his riches, but let him who boasts boast in this, that he understands and knows me, that I am the LORD who practices steadfast love, justice, and righteousness in the earth. For in these things I delight, declares the LORD.
-Jeremiah 9:23-24
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Sunday, May 10, 2015
How lovely is your dwelling place, O LORD of Heaven's Armies. (NLT) -Psalm 84:1
God desires a relationship with each one of us. There are certain times we feel closer to God and the relationship feels rich. Can you identify specifically where you dwell with the Lord more? Is it being in community with others, corporate worship, advocating for justice, studying in the Word, being in nature, or something different? When you feel disconnected, it's important to know where to seek out your dwelling place with the Lord.
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If your boss is angry at you, don't quit! A quiet spirit can overcome even great mistakes. (NLT) -Ecclesiastes 10:4
It happens. We make a mistake or do something to offend someone who has authority over us at work. Out of frustration, anger, and despair we want to quit. The wisest man who ever lived, Solomon, gave us great insight into the best way to respond. If we respond quietly, honorably and carefully carry on with our work it gives time for tempers to die down. How do you usually respond when a teacher, boss, or parent gets angry with you?
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Saturday, May 09, 2015
Obviously, I'm not trying to win the approval of people, but of God. If pleasing people were my goal, I would not be Christ's servant. (NLT) -Galatians 1:10
Anyone else a people pleaser? We twist the truth and believe God is pleased with us when we please other people. In reality, God loves us no matter what we do. Anything else is called conditional love. God loves us unconditionally, even when we don't do the right thing. This doesn't mean we walk around sinning because we know God still loves us. If we are seeking acceptance from people rather than God, is that where we want to place our self-worth? Be on the lookout today to notice if you seek acceptance apart from God. If so, how can you change this?
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In everything we do, we show that we are true ministers of God. We patiently endure troubles and hardships and calamities of every kind. (NLT) -2 Corinthians 6:4
We know hard times come. The light we can shine to others reveals our faith in God. Our faith can persist even in the face of hardship. It is a demonstration of our trust that the Lord is good. When calamity happens the last thing we want to be is patient. We want to hurry up and move beyond the troubles. This is the time God has been preparing us for and we have the opportunity to grow closer to God. If you are in the middle of calamity, muster your patience one day at a time.
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Friday, May 08, 2015
For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities--his eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse for not knowing God. (NLT) -Romans 1:20
Nature in all its splendor is beautiful. The power of water carving out the Grand Canyon, the vast and countless varieties of birds, the never-ending tide of the ocean, or the beauty of a sunset, each is glorious. They were all created to serve a purpose to point out Gods eternal power. We can look around us and see God. Its important to not get caught up in the creation and miss out on the Creator. When you hear the birds chirp today think of it as a song of praise to God and say thank you.
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Wednesday, May 06, 2015
Lead me by your truth and teach me, for you are the God who saves me. All day long I put my hope in you. (NLT) -Psalm 25:5
Do you make it easy for others to teach you? When someone tries to show you a different way or point out another route do you react with honor and grace? It's difficult to keep pride from rising up but this is what keeps us from learning well. If you don't have a teachable attitude and aren't open to learning new ways how will God be able to show you the right path?
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Tuesday, May 05, 2015
All that time I had eaten no rich food. No meat or wine crossed my lips, and I used no fragrant lotions until those three weeks had passed. (NLT) -Daniel 10:3
As adults we gain more freedoms than we may necessarily be ready for. Our self-control may not be developed enough to handle saying no even if we have the means and ability to say yes. A lack of self-control leads us further from God. Daniel was surrounded by luxury, rich foods, and had many freedoms. Daniel fasted to seek out God and strengthen his self-discipline. Do you ever feel as if your desires get the better of you when you give in?
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Monday, May 04, 2015
Don't let the excitement of youth cause you to forget your Creator. Honor him in your youth before you grow old and say, "Life is not pleasant anymore." (NLT) -Ecclesiastes 12:1
We get to experience a lot of first time experiences in our younger days, such as first time riding a bike or driving a car. Yet over time, those firsts aren't as exciting and they become lackluster. We become less enthusiastic about life as time passes. A relationship with God is so valuable that we shouldn't put it off until later. A relationship with God enhances our firsts because we get to experience it with Him and He changes the way we perceive life. Whether you will be experiencing a first today or not, don't forget about your Creator and spend some time with Him.
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"I have singled him [Abraham] out so that he will direct his sons and their families to keep the way of the LORD by doing what is right and just. Then I will do for Abraham all that I have promised." -Genesis 18:19
This verse is a good reminder of the importance of raising children according to the Lord's ways. As parents we are convicted to lead lives of integrity as examples for our children. As children we get to learn of the rich Bible stories to help us learn the right way to treat others. Everyone comes together, in their own unique way, to share in the goodness of the Lord. If you find your family has moved off track, it's never too late to reorient the family through watching a family movie featuring Biblical principles, attending church, or playing a Bible knowledge game together.
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Saturday, May 02, 2015
Dear friend, don't let this bad example influence you. Follow only what is good. Remember that those who do good prove that they are God's children, and those who do evil prove that they do not know God. (NLT) -3 John 1:11
We've all seen or heard of bad examples of Christians. Sometimes we even allow their example to influence our thoughts of God. It makes it difficult, but don't let that allow you to stray from following God and His truth. Put their example out of your mind and know that their actions reflect their distance from God. Don't let this bad example influence you.
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Don't be selfish; don't try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. (NLT) -Philippians 2:3
How can we not be selfish? That's difficult when the overwhelming majority of our thoughts are about ourselves. The second half of this verse has the answer. When we think of others more often than ourselves we battle with our selfishness. It's not asking us to think badly of ourselves, but instead to think higher of others. This can mean we give others the benefit of the doubt, release our grudges, and pay attention to the thoughtfulness others extend to us. Work today towards thinking of others more.
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Friday, May 01, 2015
Don't lust for her beauty. Don't let her coy glances seduce you. (NLT) -Proverbs 6:25
Lust is a slippery slope. You give it a little thought and before you know it, your thoughts continuously return quickly, almost obsessively. Then those thoughts can easily turn into behaviors. We do not have to be slave to those thoughts and we can overcome them by setting up a few safeguards. Avoid pictures, books, or any daydreams that push you closer to repetitive lustful thoughts. Quickly change your thoughts when you are faced with unavoidable situations. Most importantly, keep in mind how your thoughts in the moment impact your future.
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Mark out a straight path for your feet; stay on the safe path. (NLT) -Proverbs 4:26
Have you set a path for your feet or a mountain to climb? Set a goal and work towards it. Perhaps your goal is to graduate from high school or maybe it is to pay off a credit card. Gather your determination and work hard! Many times we get distracted, veer off the course, and then we lose passion for our path. If you stay focused on your mountain, it will surely be a safe path.
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