April 26, 2020September 8, 2020

DEVOTION JOURNAL – MARCH 2020 – DON MCDANIEL

March 2020:

3/1/20 The Danger of Anger 1 You shall Then Nebuchadnezzar was full of fury, and the expression on his face changed toward Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego. He spoke and commanded that they heat the furnace seven times more than it was usually heated. Daniel 3:19

Recommended Reading: EPHESIANS 4:26-27 “²⁶“Be angry, and do not sin”: do not let the sun go down on your wrath, ²⁷nor give place to the devil.”

COMMENTS: Anger is as powerful force and energy that is capable of good, if channeled and controlled properly or a force of great destruction and evil if unbridled. Nebuchadnezzar recklessly had Daniel’s 3 friends thrown into that furnace. After the great good Daniel did for the King in interpreting his dream and the skill and wisdom Daniel and his 3 friends had already demonstrated in leadership roles the king rewarded them with. They simply took a stand to only honor the God who gave the king the dream of future events and the interpretation. The king knew the power and reality of Daniel’s God, but pride and being used to getting his own way corrupted his thinking.

King Nebuchadnezzar was known to have those who questioned him killed on the spot, because of his unbridled anger. Everyone feared him because they never knew when his anger would raise its ugly head. But God was not done with him and in spite of the long path of dead King Nebuchadnezzar left, God was still willing to work on a plan of redemption for him. Why? I think it was because Daniel prayed for him

Everyone of us know the destructive nature of anger. Everyone, including me, have said things in the heat of anger that hurt someone and deeply regretted those words after the anger cooled. We try to sooth the damage by saying “we’re sorry” and “we didn’t mean it”, but the honest truth is at the time we did mean to hurt them and were not sorry then and did mean it. But when the anger cooled and our minds were clear, we then felt and thought differently.

Why is that? Did circumstances change? No. Truth is, the only thing that changed was anger and its influence over us. Unbridled anger, even for a moment is a dangerous force not unlike a destructive tornado that destroys everything in its path for the brief time it thrives.

Is there such a thing as a good anger? Ephesians 4:26-32 “²⁶Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath:²⁷Neither give place to the devil.²⁸Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth.²⁹Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.³⁰And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.³¹Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice:³²And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.”

The short answer is yes but not in the form experienced most of the time. Verse 26 tells us to control anger and channel it’s energy to motivate focusing any anger onto the source, which is satan, not the individual you are angry with. Channel that anger on resolving the situation satan presented to kindle that anger. To think clearly when angry and control and manage it, but do so with God’s help and influence. Vs 27 tells us not to give satan any place in our minds or hearts. We are also not to let ourselves sin while under the influence of anger. The mouth is the most common agent of destruction while angry, but physical abuse and attacks are also common. Vs 32 tells us to always be kind and forgiving towards each other. That includes when our minds are clear but also when our minds are clouded by anger.

History is full of bloody examples of unbridled anger. During the 6-year reign of Queen Mary in England (1553-1558), she had 300 devout protestant leaders martyred with the blessing of the Catholic Church of England. Most were burned at the stake, a terrible painful way to die. Some sympathetic executioners would tie a bag of gunpowder around the neck of the condemned to hasten their death when the flames reached that bag.

Think about the flames and heat burning feet and working up one’s body and then the face before unconsciousness and death bring relief. The only other relief may be if smoke overcomes victim first before the flames consume his flesh.

Nebuchadnezzar had witnessed many such executions and suspect he even became so deprived to enjoyed seeing that suffering and agony. Sin has a way of pulling us deeper and deeper into its sinister – detestable decent into depravity. Depravity repulsive to us at the beginning but not so much later. Sin’s addictive and destructive nature is exactly like drug addictions or many other types of addictions. God doesn’t want to deprive us but give us life and life more abundantly!

The apostle Paul knew all this, which is why he commanded Christians not to let anger fester or to “give place to the devil” (Ephesians 4:27). Don’t let anger be the cause of irrational actions.

Take a few minutes and reflect on Ben Franklin’s word of wisdom below.

“Whatever begins in anger, ends in shame.” Ben Franklin

3/2/20 Love – A Leap of Faith But Not Blind 2

For if you love those who love you, what reward have you? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? Matthew 5:46

RECOMMENDED SCRIPTURE READING: LUKE 6:32 “³²“But if you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners love those who love them.“

COMMENTS: How would you define love? Webster’s says “An intense feeling of deep affection”. 1 Corinthians 13:4-8 “4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.”

The Bible defines love in terms of conduct and not by feeling. The Bible also defines perfect love as God. “God is love and has demonstrated that love in everything that he does. Paul compares faith, hope, and love, and concludes that “the greatest of these is love” ( 1 Cor 13:13 ).

God’s example throughout the Old Testament reflects His nature and capacity to love with forgiveness and patience. However, His love is also revealed during times of correction – punishment – judgment when realize the destruction and death that comes from disobedience and sin. Unchecked sin brings far worse consequences that a time of God’s correction and serves to draw us back to Him. “Tough love” is well understood by every parent and grandparent having to deal with rebellious children and grandchildren. Do I hear an AMEN? OK, I know. Grandparents tend to be a lot more permissive than they were as parents, which isn’t always good. Sorry, I digress. Anyway, our clearest and most perfect example is Christ Himself. The New Testament records much of His life and conduct during His ministry years and the record of His purpose and death and resurrection and conduct until His ascension all serve to instruct us on God’s Love and inspire us to live at that higher plane.

So, love is not a feeling but a choice. It is not an emotion for an action. Granted, love includes emotions that motive action or a response, but scripture makes it clear that perfect love, “agape love” is a choice first, a response or action second, and an emotion last. When we put it backwards, it is much like “putting the cart ahead of the horse”. How well would a horse push a cart instead of pull a cart. Kind of silly even in today’s time where horses and carts are only seen in Amish Communities.

Jesus demonstrated interest and compassion for those rejected or shunned by society. Tax collectors like Zacchaeus (Luke 19:1-10) or harlots like the woman about to be stoned (John 8:1-30). Rahab is also a noteworthy example from the Old Testament who was redeemed – forgiven and given a place of honor and an eternal legacy in God’s unfolding plan.

Jesus instructed his disciples and us not to just love those who love us but also our enemies and those who do not love or show kindness back.

Think of acquaintances in your life who don’t necessarily love you—a friend, a neighbor, a co-worker, a stranger. Take the leap and love them with an act of kindness, generosity, or service during the coming week.

“Man’s greatest sin is not hatred, but indifference to one’s brothers.” Mother Teresa

3/3/20 Deliverance 3

“Look!” he answered, “I see four men loose, walking in the midst of the fire; and they are not hurt, and the form of the fourth is like the Son of God.” Daniel 3:25

RECOMMENDED SCRIPTURE READING ISAIAH 43:1-7 – “But now, thus says the Lord, who created you, O Jacob, And He who formed you, O Israel: “Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; You are Mine.²When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; And through the rivers, they shall not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned, Nor shall the flame scorch you.³For I am the Lord your God, The Holy One of Israel, your Savior; I gave Egypt for your ransom, Ethiopia and Seba in your place.⁴Since you were precious in My sight, You have been honored, And I have loved you; Therefore I will give men for you, And people for your life.⁵Fear not, for I am with you; I will bring your descendants from the east, And gather you from the west;⁶I will say to the north, ‘Give them up! ‘And to the south, ‘Do not keep them back! ‘Bring My sons from afar, And My daughters from the ends of the earth—⁷Everyone who is called by My name, Whom I have created for My glory; I have formed him, yes, I have made him.”

COMMENTS: The story of Daniel and the Lion’s Den is one of the most loved and known stories of the bible but also the story of Daniel’s 3 friends and the fiery furnace is another too. They chose not to worship and do homage to a 90 ft statue of King Nebuchadnezzar. His subjects were ordered to gather at the foot of that statue and kneel and worship it. When these 3 men refused, they stood out as the only 3 of that huge gathering still standing. They knew and had seen the results of the king’s temper and were fully aware they were in great danger. What they told the king is worthy of pondering. Daniel 3:16-18 “¹⁶Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego answered and said to the king, “O Nebuchadnezzar, we have no need to answer you in this matter. ¹⁷If this be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he will deliver us out of your hand, O king.^[^c^] ¹⁸But if not, be it known to you, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the golden image that you have set up.””

They did not know if God would spare them or if they would suffer and die (burned alive) in the flames. They knew God was able to spared them, but weren’t sure He would come to rescue them before or after they died in flames. I’m sure they hadn’t thought of His shield and protection in the flames, but I’m sure they felt His presence and were strengthened by His presence before entering the flames. But I can also imagine and believe they felt alone when standing there alone and when the king pronounced judgment on them. They may have felt alone as they were being bound and throne into those flames. But God came just in time. There was not a hair burnt nor even the smell of smoke. Jesus, Himself, long before His birth came personally. He was not only seen by them but by the king and those there.

Many have been martyred for their faith in both old testament and new testament times and in the centuries since. They were not spared death by lions or by fire or by countless other sinister means, but Jesus was still there for each and every one on the other side to greet them. Some He may have escorted them directly while others by an angelic escort but none alone.

When we feel alone or weak, it is satan trying to weaken and discourage us. Our feelings / emotions often betray us. But God’s promises never betray or fail us. So why does God often allow us to feel alone and distant from Him while enduring temptation and danger? Only He knows the answer, but I believe the answer likely has many facets. A common result and one of the likely reasons are the necessity to choose the path of obedience and trust in Him while feeling alone in order to make our will and faith come together as one. God will and always provides sufficient help and strength and encouragement and abiding presence to reach the destination and endure the journey there. But that first step of faith may require us taking it alone first before seeing God there ready to catch us.

Stop and think about what it took for Peter to get out the boat and walk on water toward Christ. He alone got out of the boat and had to walk on his own the few steps until Christ could catch him. But when he lost concentration and wind and waves began overtaking him, then Christ grabbed hold of him and saved him just in time.

Always just in time, never too late or too early. I have to admit that I prefer early because risk is less and much less faith and risk is required. But God has different goals. Ours is to conserve faith and His is to build strength and stamina in our faith. He wants to exercise and strength our faith muscles so our endurance and strength will be up to future tasks of faith He wants to prepare us for.

Was it worth it for Daniel when he emerged from that lion’s den or for Daniel’s 3 friends when they emerged from that fiery furnace? You had better believe it! God then gave them greater responsibility and influence after that. Influence that still impacts and influences every time we read it in scripture and open our hearts to God’s insights and editorial in our souls.

I can imagine a long waiting line waiting to have a conversation with Daniel and his friends. I am planning on being among them too, how about you.

But be glad none of us will have to wait our turn to be greeted by and be in fellowship with Christ. HE IS GOD AND ABLE AND WILLING AND AVAILABLE TO HAVE FELLOWSHIP WITH EACH OF US ALL AT THE SAME TIME BOTH NOW AND WHEN WE GET TO HEAVEN’S GATE!

AMEN? AMEN!!

This reminds us of Paul’s words: “Yes, we had the sentence of death in ourselves, that we should not trust in ourselves but in God who raises the dead, who delivered us from so great a death, and does deliver us; in whom we trust that He will still deliver us” (2 Corinthians 1:9-10).

There is a Fourth Man who will come and be with us through any fiery test we face. He can, has, does, and will deliver us!

“When through fiery trials thy pathway shall lie, My grace all sufficient, shall be thy supply.”
George Keith, “How Firm a Foundation”

3/4/20 Addiction to Power 4

How great are his signs, how powerful his wonders! His kingdom will last forever, his rule through all generations. Daniel 4:3

RECOMMENDED SCRIPTURE READING 2 THESSALONIANS 1:9-11 – “⁹These shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of His power, ¹⁰when He comes, in that Day, to be glorified in His saints and to be admired among all those who believe, because our testimony among you was believed.¹¹Therefore we also pray always for you that our God would count you worthy of this calling, and fulfill all the good pleasure of His goodness and the work of faith with power, “

COMMENTS: Daniel 4 is a unique portion of scripture. I hadn’t noticed or realized it previously, but Daniel 4 is written by King Nebuchadnezzar himself and was preserved in Babylon recorded history but also by Daniel and preserved as part of God’s Word / Scripture for us to read and be nourished by.

Power is a very addictive drug. Those who are given or take by force leadership positions that enable them to control and manage the lives of many people soon discover how powerful this addiction is. What they often discover too late is that responsibility and wisdom are necessary to properly manage and consistently make good decisions. To do less always brings far worse consequences than anticipated or planned for.

Daniel earned the top position next to the king by demonstrating wisdom and righteous living. He consistently proved himself trustworthy and consistent wisdom in his council. God preserved Daniel’s life and enabled him to give wise council through Daniel’s senior years. Daniel didn’t live to see his beloved homeland but did live to see God fulfill His pledge to bring His people back to their homeland after 70 years of exile. They didn’t deserve forgiveness and Daniel wasn’t guilty of the sin that caused him and his countrymen to go into exile to Babylon.

Power had corrupted Nebuchadnezzar, causing him to think of himself more highly than he should and even as a god. Even with great power Nebuchadnezzar handed to Daniel, Daniel never abused that power nor made the fatal error of relying on his own abilities instead of God’s.

But Nebuchadnezzar finally did learn this valuable lesson and recorded his journey to God’s redemption and necessary humility to complete that journey. He had grown very accustomed to being able to decide life or death to anyone and everyone without being accountable to anyone.

But through Daniel he learned about a God with power and authority that far exceeded his. But not until God stripped Nebuchadnezzar of his power and sanity and wealth did, he finally change. It took 7 years living as an animal to bring Nebuchadnezzar to his senses.

Daniel is a wonder book and portion of scripture for study and discovery. God used Daniel’s faithfulness and loving obedience to show the most feared and powerful ruler of that time that God is not just the God of Israel but God of the world and beyond, the God of the universe.

Nebuchadnezzar ordered his subjects, including the Jews, to abandon their God and worship him as their supreme ruler and provider. God responded by showing him that not only were his gods imaginary and not real, but God showed him, and the whole empire Nebuchadnezzar ruled that GOD IS REAL AND ALL POWERFUL AND GOD OVER ALL SEEN AND UNSEEN. GOD IS MORE POWERFUL AND MORE INVOLVED THAN ANYONE OR ANYTHING.

God showed the world the benefits of obeying God and consequences of not obeying God.

So, what does this story reveal to us about God and our responsibility? How can we become Daniels and who are those He wants us to teach and council by our conduct and words and lives?

Daniel said, “Praise be to the name of God for ever and ever; wisdom and power are his” (Daniel 2:20).

The other discovery and realization are motivation and source of world view of pagan worship and self-gratification. Reflect on personal and world problems and tragedies that are directly caused by sin, as God defined. Problems common with all generations from Daniel to present. Problems with one source, satan. But problems with only one solution, God. Only God can provide lasting solutions while satan is the cause and source of both problems and their consequences.

We face many problems as we press onward toward heaven, and we have a powerful enemy who tries to block us at every point. But we have the powerful grace of God around us, the powerful hand of God upon us, the powerful presence of Jesus with us, and the powerful promises of God beneath us. To Him belongs all power, might, glory, and honor!

“In and through every outward thing, look only to the power of His Spirit, and the merits of His Son.” John Wesley

3/5/20 The Makeup Called Radiance 5

They looked to Him and were radiant. Psalm 34:5

RECOMMENDED SCRIPTURE READING PSALM 34:1-22 – “ I will bless the Lord at all times;His praise shall continually be in my mouth.²My soul shall make its boast in the Lord;The humble shall hear of it and be glad.³Oh, magnify the Lord with me,And let us exalt His name together.⁴I sought the Lord, and He heard me,And delivered me from all my fears.⁵They looked to Him and were radiant,And their faces were not ashamed.⁶This poor man cried out, and the Lord heard him,And saved him out of all his troubles.⁷The angel of the Lord encamps all around those who fear Him,And delivers them.⁸Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good;Blessed is the man who trusts in Him!⁹Oh, fear the Lord, you His saints!There is no want to those who fear Him.¹⁰The young lions lack and suffer hunger;But those who seek the Lord shall not lack any good thing. Come, you children, listen to me;I will teach you the fear of the Lord.¹²Who is the man who desires life,And loves many days, that he may see good?¹³Keep your tongue from evil,And your lips from speaking deceit.¹⁴Depart from evil and do good;Seek peace and pursue it.¹⁵The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous,And His ears are open to their cry.¹⁶The face of the Lord is against those who do evil,To cut off the remembrance of them from the earth.¹⁷The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears,And delivers them out of all their troubles.¹⁸The Lord is near to those who have a broken heart,And saves such as have a contrite spirit.¹⁹Many are the afflictions of the righteous,But the Lord delivers him out of them all.²⁰He guards all his bones;Not one of them is broken. ²¹Evil shall slay the wicked,And those who hate the righteous shall be condemned.²²The Lord redeems the soul of His servants,And none of those who trust in Him shall be condemned.”

COMMENTS: Psalm 34 is a wonderful psalm of praise and worship, uplifting those who speak it and hear it. I especially like and am inspired by verse 7-9 underlined above. We seldom see or even feel the angelic protector(s) protecting us in the midst of trials and danger and even hardship and tragedy. The necessity of enduring such for a time in order to test and grow / strengthen our faith in Christ is never easy or appealing but always necessary and brings eternal benefits. I certainly know, and believe everyone needs reminded often of this truth and fact of life in order to avoid or put to rest doubt and fears and sense of being alone and even abandonment that can be so overwhelming at times.

The story is recorded of Alexander Maclaren, a powerful Scottish preacher , who noticed a well-known skeptic in the audience returning every Sunday for some time. That man eventually accepted Christ. Later Maclaren asked him which message convinced him to accept Christ. He told him that his sermons were helpful but not convincing. What convinced him was an elderly lady with a radiant face he encountered on the icy streets. He stopped to help and walk with her. She then asked him “I am wondering if you know my Savior, Jesus Christ ? He is everything in the world to me. I want you to love Him, too.” That skeptic said “Those few words touched my heart , and when I got home, I knelt down and received the Savior.”

Powerful messages are helpful and needed, but the lives and conduct and attitudes of people who follow Christ are what impact unbelievers the most. Sustained unrehearsed witnesses of His redemption and transforming influence give an element of credibility and appeal that can’t be denied or ignored. Christ will melt and change the hardest of hearts but not until the foundation work he calls His people to do is completed first .

The good news is our frail efforts are sufficient if done with our hearts and eyes on Him. But keep in mind that when we fail or refuse to do our part, we may miss the blessing but He will find someone else willing . But His mercies are also on those who fail because He is willing to give other opportunities to those who repent and seek His forgiveness too.

No, none are worthy of His mercy, not even that elderly lady on those icy walks, but as she shared her joy of knowing His mercies, she experienced added joy when shared and saw God working as she shared. We don’t know if she ever knew the impact of her words, but I’m sure she does now on the other side of heaven’s gate. I’m sure that skeptic was likely greeted by her at heaven’s gate years later and they had much to talk about. AMEN? AMEN!

Even those in the grip of sin and frailty can recognize a true believer in Jesus Christ. When they see the joy of Christ in our life, it becomes a convicting moment. There’s a sermon in the holy smiles of God’s faithful people.

“If you go about doing good, speaking love and truth, radiant with His Spirit, they will be reading in you the Gospel after all.” Vance Havner

3/6/20 Be Not Deceived 6

Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. Galatians 6:7

RECOMMENDED SCRIPTURE READING DANIEL 5:1-9 – “Belshazzar the king made a great feast for a thousand of his lords, and drank wine in the presence of the thousand. ²While he tasted the wine, Belshazzar gave the command to bring the gold and silver vessels which his father Nebuchadnezzar had taken from the temple which had been in Jerusalem, that the king and his lords, his wives, and his concubines might drink from them. ³Then they brought the gold vessels that had been taken from the temple of the house of God which had been in Jerusalem; and the king and his lords, his wives, and his concubines drank from them. ⁴They drank wine, and praised the gods of gold and silver, bronze and iron, wood and stone.⁵In the same hour the fingers of a man’s hand appeared and wrote opposite the lampstand on the plaster of the wall of the king’s palace; and the king saw the part of the hand that wrote. ⁶Then the king’s countenance changed, and his thoughts troubled him, so that the joints of his hips were loosened and his knees knocked against each other. ⁷The king cried aloud to bring in the astrologers, the Chaldeans, and the soothsayers. The king spoke, saying to the wise men of Babylon, “Whoever reads this writing, and tells me its interpretation, shall be clothed with purple and have a chain of gold around his neck; and he shall be the third ruler in the kingdom.” ⁸Now all the king’s wise men came, but they could not read the writing, or make known to the king its interpretation. ⁹Then King Belshazzar was greatly troubled, his countenance was changed, and his lords were astonished. “

COMMENTS: We are living in a time when society is losing respect and even any restraint for God or His commands. Even replacing reverence with disrespect and disgust for God’s commands. Conduct becoming common and unashamed that is similar to Sodom and Gomorrah in time of Abraham or at time of flood during Noah’s time. We are not only living in a time when it is becoming more acceptable to display immoral conduct, as God defines in His Word, but condemnation of those who profess being Christians and hold to moral code of conduct God commands. Abortion, homosexual behavior, and same sex marriage have become the accepted types of conduct and those who do not condone or accept such choices as good are condemned and punished in ways that are becoming more legal.

But God has not changed, no His commands. He still requires a high standard of behavior but also still offers forgiveness and fresh start to those who are penitent. But pride and human tendency to justify sinful behavior is becoming more the norm. But God still is warning and preparing for judgment.

There is a long list of those before us who likewise disregarded God’s commands and did as they pleased. They enjoyed sin for a time but their end was eternal judgment from God. Today is no different and God’s warning is still in force. God’s longsuffering tempt many to think God is turning a “blind eye” or even does not exist, but scripture tells us one day everyone will kneel. Those who yield to His mercy will kneel in worship and praise to Him. Those who have not yielded to His mercy will be force to kneel in submission and to His judgment on them, like it or not.

Our job is to live and conduct ourselves with the joy of being forgiven and being in fellowship with our Creator and Savior should reflect. When we fail to live victoriously or show doubt and gloom, we show the opposite, but when we openly seek His mercy and help of combating our weaknesses, we instead demonstrate what God is offering everyone. Hiding our faults and how to access His helps doesn’t help us and deprives everyone who knows us. Failing isn’t as damaging as hiding failure and pretending to be good and successful. Being phony stands out like a sore thumb.

The writer of Hebrews wrote “It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.” (Hebrews 10:31)

King Belshazzar, the grandson and successor to Nebuchadnezzar in Babylon, discovered this the hard way. He took the sacred utensils his grandfather took from temple in Jerusalem and drank from them in disrespect during a immoral drunken party. He mocked God and mocked His people enslaved in Babylon. God responded that very hour by writing on a wall as King Belshazzar and those at his party. They didn’t understand what was written but knew it was of divine origin and was carrying a warning of imminent doom. That very night The Medes invaded and killed Belshazzar (Daniel 5:30-31). The city was surrounded by walls wide enough to have a chariot race 4 chariots wide on its top. These walls were 300 feet high. Belshazzar thought his city was invincible but he failed to know the Medes bribed the guards and snuck in through the water inlets to the city without any alert or warning.

There is a universal principle at work in human affairs: “God is not mocked” are words to live by, today and always, for we will reap what we sow

“God is not deceived by externals.” C. S. Lewis

3/7/20 THE PRAISE OF MEN 7

For they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God. John 12:43

RECOMMENDED READING: 1 CORINTHIANS 1:25-31 “²⁵Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the weakness of God is stronger than men.²⁶For you see your calling, brethren, that not many wise according to the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called. ²⁷But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty; ²⁸and the base things of the world and the things which are despised God has chosen, and the things which are not, to bring to nothing the things that are, ²⁹that no flesh should glory in His presence. ³⁰But of Him you are in Christ Jesus, who became for us wisdom from God—and righteousness and sanctification and redemption— ³¹that, as it is written, “He who glories, let him glory in the Lord.””

COMMENTS: We all desire and even crave confirmation. Compliments on a job well done are like nourishment of encouragement and motivation. But criticism and suggestions done sincerely and constructively do more good in bringing positive change or improvement in quality of work. Truth is no one does their work without flaw and has room for improvement, but only those who have experience and skill are qualified to give needed constructive criticism or instruction. Reinforcing strong positive work with praise and gently suggesting changes in weaker areas should be welcomed and even expected if we truly are sincere in desiring our work to be good and of value . For our work to satisfy the need for which it was intended. A house that functions by sheltering its inhabitants from cold or heat, from rain or hot sun, from winds and storms, from loud outside noises and smells, and from intruders intending to do harm while displaying beauty inside and out. But one of the most important issues is that the house do so for a very long time with minimal maintenance or repairs.

The foundation is vital since a weak foundation will fail to hold the house stable but a firm solid foundation will without fail for many lifetimes. The house will be able to withstand great storms and winds if it is sitting on a firm foundation and is built to withstand such storms. Taking short cuts in time to build or in quality of materials used in order to save time and money will result in disaster and loss of house or loss of life. Yet skill and experience in engineering and in construction can accomplish similar time and money savings without compromising durability and quality of finished house.

When we spend time with Christ – the master designer / creator / builder / repairer who is also our God and Savior and Lord but also our greatest friend. When we spend time with Christ who has the wisdom and foreknowledge and wisdom infinitely greater than anyone and t he experience of creation and maintaining His creation through the ages. When we spend time with Christ, we learn from and are helped by the Master.

In Daniel we are told King Belshazzar, Nebuchadnezzar’s grandson and successor to the throne of Babylon, hosted a drunken f east for 1000 of his nobles and officials. He ordered the sacred golden vessels, that his grandfather had removed from the temple in Jerusalem many years earlier, be brought so they could be used during the feast. Those present mocked and defamed God by doing so while disregarding the danger they were foolishly exposing themselves to. But repent they refused and judgment came that very night by invasion of the Medes. They thought their 300 ft walls around the city made it invincible but bribing a few guards got the enemy past that barrier. Sin has a way of getting past protection not because it is stronger but because it doesn’t play fair. When we ignore God’s warnings and refuse His council, we allow the enemy to sneak into our minds and hearts and remove safeguards and protection God has installed around us.

Belshazzar wanted to please his officials while ignoring God’s commands and Will, but the praise and approval of men will not save us or protect us especially from God. But the approval of God can and will spare and protect us from people. God may test our faith by hiding evidence of that truth but such will be revealed and will impact future events forever.

A similar example is given in the New Testament. John records that among the religious rulers in Jerusalem “many believed in Him.” But they would not confess their faith openly because of the Pharisees, “lest they should be put out of the synagogue.” In other words, “they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God” (John 12:42-43). They considered it best to be secret believers—maintaining their status among the non-believers while secretly professing to believe in Jesus. Perhaps they had missed what Jesus said as recorded in Matthew 10:32—He will confess before the Father those who confess Him before men. But like Peter, they would face confrontation sooner or later to either deny or acknowledge Christ as the Messiah they had been looking for.

Don’t be afraid to live for Christ; don’t prefer the praise of men over the praise of God. Praise of men will be brief and carry lasting consequences while praise of God may bring short term hardship but always permanent blessing.

It is only the fear of God that can deliver us from the fear of man.
John Witherspoon

3/8/20 TAKING THE LOVE LEAP! 8

Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up….Love never fails. 1 Corinthians 13:4, 8

RECOMMENDED READING: 1 PETER 4:8 “⁸And above all things have fervent love for one another, for “love will cover a multitude of sins.””

COMMENTS: The world defines love as a feeling of affection towards another so that we enjoy being with them and showing kindnesses to them. The world says love is an emotion that is either present or not and cannot be generated or created by choice but can be killed by choices made or by neglect.

Well what does God say? I Corinthians 13:4-7 gives us characteristics of evidences of love: “⁴Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. ⁵It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. ⁶Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. ⁷It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.^“

So, scripture defines love as a action verb and not as an emotion or feeling. Jesus was the perfect demonstrator of love and showed the greatest display of love on the cross (John 3:16-18 & Mark 10:45). Taking our sins on Himself was not something He looked forward to but dreaded. But His love and awareness of our peril. He even asked the Father if another way of redemption would work, but He already knew the answer to that question.

Jesus showed the disciples how to love and demonstrated for them what love looks like. He said “By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another” (John 13:35). All people mean the save and the unsaved. Paul said “Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, and endures all things.” (1 Cor. 13:7). So where is the balance between forgiveness and administering “tough love” – allowing others to endure at least some of the consequences of their sins when it is in our power to spare them? When do we need to give a helping hand and a hand of escape?

Well, the answer varies with situation and individual. With an attitude of genuine penitence and remorse, healing and a new beginning making wiser choices also brings sparing from many or all the consequences of past sin. But when weakness toward temptation and sin remain strong and offender still does not have the will or strength to resist temptation, then it may become necessary to allow the offender to endure some or even all the consequences of their sins for a time. That is what we call “tough love”. Allowing offender to endure some of the consequences of their sins while still forgiving them and having the power to remove consequences of those sins.

For those of us who have been married for a number of years, we realize love is a choice and a commitment that requires us to show compassion and kindness whether we feel like it or not. I know many happy couples who have been married for 50 or 60 years. We’ve been married nearly 42 years ourselves. My wife’s parents lived to celebrate their 50th anniversary and my parents their 66th anniversary. I know at least one couple who lived to celebrate their 72th before one of them died.

The current record is 84 years, celebrated in 2008 by Zelmyra and Herbert Fisher but Herbert died at age 105 in 2011 They reached 87 years of marriage before one of them died. So how did they do that? What was their secret? “Love each other with ALL of your heart. Marriage is not a contest, so don’t keep score.” They both took their pledge and commitment to love until death separated them.

Well, the Fishers demonstrated very well what Paul said in 1 Corinthians 13 “Love never fails”. The love Paul is referring to is “agape love” which is unconditional – sacrificial love like God demonstrated and continues to demonstrate to us.

Well, the truth is death doesn’t kill or terminate true love. When my father died, my mother lived another 5 years. During that time, she displayed pictures of them when they were young to enjoy and reflect on memories they shared together. As she approached her death, I told her I am glad she displayed those pictures because I will be able to recognize them when I enter heaven’s gate. She smiled and said “not to worry, for she will recognize me.” Her love and confidence in heaven and in Christ grew stronger as her body weakened. She was not alone. She had full confidence she would see and be with her beloved husband soon and showed her excitement. We saw the evidence of that and evidence that Christ was there too encouraging and reassuring her too. Her love for her husband and her love for Christ didn’t fail or die as she approached her death. It only grew stronger and more confident.

Their example and the example of countless others only reassures us God is real and His promises are true. Reflect on examples you know and remember to encourage and help you follow their example. Reflect on Christ’s example and seek His living presence to abide in and with you. He is not only able to do that but eagerly waiting to do so. His Holy Spirit abides in millions already and is able to do so in you and me as though we were the only person on earth. He is not overwhelmed or distracted. He is able to give each one full attention at the same time.

If an individual Christian does not show love toward other true Christians, the world has a right to judge that he or she is not a Christian.
Francis Schaeffer

3/9/20 Words on a Wall 9

There is a man in your kingdom in whom is the Spirit of the Holy God. Daniel 5:11

Recommended Reading: DANIEL 5:10-14 “¹⁰The queen, because of the words of the king and his lords, came to the banquet hall. The queen spoke, saying, “O king, live forever! Do not let your thoughts trouble you, nor let your countenance change. ¹¹There is a man in your kingdom in whom is the Spirit of the Holy God. And in the days of your father, light and understanding and wisdom, like the wisdom of the gods, were found in him; and King Nebuchadnezzar your father—your father the king—made him chief of the magicians, astrologers, Chaldeans, and soothsayers. ¹²Inasmuch as an excellent spirit, knowledge, understanding, interpreting dreams, solving riddles, and explaining enigmas were found in this Daniel, whom the king named Belteshazzar, now let Daniel be called, and he will give the interpretation.”

COMMENTS: Today’s scripture gives us a clue of the influence Daniel had on Babylon and at least awareness of the God of Daniel. Belshazzar didn’t seem to have a clue in spite of that influence and the influence Nebuchadnezzar, his grandfather, had after he had repented and believed in the God of Daniel. But keep in mind both Daniel and Nebuchadnezzar were older and likely their influence was likely less than years before. It is amazing Nebuchadnezzar remained on his throne without contester those 7 years he was insane. I can imagine the vacuum that insanity left was filled and Daniel’s influence dwindled too. But I can also imagine, when Nebuchadnezzar’s sanity and power was restored, knowledge of God and opportunities for Daniel to spread God’s message increased. I believe it was during that time that Belshazzar’s wife likely heard that message and was impacted by Daniel’s message.

Belshazzar didn’t learn from his grandfather’s sins and pride, but his should have. The consequences then were that he was given less time to repent. In fact judgment flooded on him and those at his party brutally and suddenly.

Charges:

vs. 22 – BELSHAZZAR DID NOT HUMBLE HIS HEART AND REPENT OF HIS SIN OF PRIDE. Belshazzar was guilty of premeditated sin. He knew better but sinned anyway. when he took the sacred temple vessels, that were in the temple at Jerusalem, and use them to drink from at his drunken party, was a fatal insult against God and against God’s servants.
vs. 23 – BELSHAZZAR PUT HIMSELF AS IN AUTHORITY OVER GOD. Using the sacred vessels.
vs. 24 – BELSHAZZAR WAS JUDGED FULL OF INIQUITY AND RIPE FOR DESTRUCTION.
vs. 25 – JUDGMENT CAME IN THE CHALDEAN LANGUAGE SO BELSHAZZAR AND ALL PRESENT WOULD KNOW THE EXACT WORDS OF JUDGMENT AND DANIEL’S PRONOUNCEMENT TO THEM. IT WAS A FINAL, BUT BRIEF, OPPORTUNITY FOR REPENTANCE BEFORE JUDGMEN WOULD RAIN DOWN ON THEM.

The queen remembered Daniel, so solicited him to interpret the mysterious words, which God enabled for him.

Far better to turn to God and to His faithful before judgment is imminent. In moments of crisis, judgment, terror, and need, the world turns to those who know their God. The memory of righteous men and women linger. That’s why it’s vital to grow stronger, wiser, and more faithful with the passing years. The influence of God’s people brings His presence into a chaotic world.

BECOME THE PER SON OTHERS COME TO FOR COUNCIL AND HELP INSTEAD OF THE PERSON WHO ALWAYS SEEKS HELP AND COUNCIL. GOD IS THE SOURCE OF THAT HELP!

When a crisis arises… the great man who has the keys of the kingdom stands up and stands out. So in this occasion, in the critical awesomeness of that fatal night, Daniel the prophet of God is called for and stands up. W. A. Criswell

3/10/20 ELECTION JITTERS 10

Do not fret because of evildoers, nor be envious of the workers of iniquity. For they shall soon be cut down like the grass, and wither as the green herb. Psalm 37:1-2,

Scripture: PSALM 37:1-8 “Do not fret because of evildoers, Nor be envious of the workers of iniquity.²For they shall soon be cut down like the grass, And wither as the green herb.³Trust in the Lord, and do good; Dwell in the land, and feed on His faithfulness.⁴Delight yourself also in the Lord,And He shall give you the desires of your heart.⁵Commit your way to the Lord,Trust also in Him,And He shall bring it to pass.⁶He shall bring forth your righteousness as the light,And your justice as the noonday.⁷Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for Him;Do not fret because of him who prospers in his way,Because of the man who brings wicked schemes to pass.⁸Cease from anger, and forsake wrath;Do not fret—it only causes harm.”

COMMENTS: We all have been frustrated or even anxious about unjust or evil thinking people placed in positions of authority. Those undeserving of their position. But in times like WW II how people rallied together enduring great sacrifice to defeat Hitler and his army at the same time Japan was attacking with an equal formidable force. At the time there was doubt the US and Allied Forces would prevail . Stop and reflect what the world would be like today if they hadn’t. I shudder at the thought. I was born in 1951 and am certain if they hadn’t, I wouldn’t have been born. What a awful place the world would have been if Hitler had succeeded.

Elections have been won by candidates making promises and giving powerful speeches that were filled with promises they didn’t intend to keep and didn’t. When people feel they are entitled and not obligated to earn or work for benefits or opportunities being promised, then they open the door for future Hitlers. Well, we are in an election year in USA when candidates preach and advocate opposing philosophies and problem solutions in order to gain control of cities or states or even entire nation. But uncertainty and fear are more often the fruit instead of inspiring unity. But scripture reminds us that God is in control and will care for the believer and carry him/her to their final destination, heaven. God has and continues to control events of history. He makes short work of evildoers, so tells us not to fret even if He delays judgment for a time.

When America was still a dream, the American Continental Congress convened in Philadelphia. Rev. Jacob Duché led the opening prayer. He said, “Be Thou present, O God of wisdom, and direct the councils of this honorable assembly; enable them to settle things on the best and surest foundation.…That order, harmony and peace may be effectually restored, and that truth and justice, religion and piety, prevail and flourish amongst the people.”¹

Prayer does make a difference in influencing way God implements His plan and also influences us in choices we make. Partnering with God is the result instead of going our own way and risk opposing God and the power and wisdom in which He administers His providence over all of life. Remember, “Do not fret – it only causes harm.” Psalm 37:8.

O Lord our Heavenly Father, high and mighty King of kings, and Lord of lords, who dost from Thy throne behold all the dwellers on earth…look down in mercy, we beseech Thee, on [us].
Jacob Duché

3/11/20 FAITHFUL IN ALL THINGS 11

Then this Daniel distinguished himself above the governors and satraps, because an excellent spirit was in him; and the king gave thought to setting him over the whole realm. Daniel 6:3

RECOMMENDED SCRIPTURE: 1 CORINTHIANS 4:1-2 “Let a man so consider us, as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God. ²Moreover it is required in stewards that one be found faithful.”

COMMENTS: Daniel is by far the individual in the Old Testament I respect and aspired to the most. He was faithful to God from childhood to extreme old age. He was faithful to God and trustworthy to all rulers he was subordinate to. He was honest and excelled at his work demonstrating a level of honesty and integrity and wisdom no one else even came close. But where he would not conform was honoring any person, including the king or his gods, more than the Almighty God. He stayed firm, like his 3 friends many years before, in the midst of imminent death by no less than being eaten alive by lions. Daniel enduring all night imprisoned with those lions all salivating over anticipation of a fresh meal. Daniel was old and tough as a meal but also even more young and tough in his trust in and faithfulness to God.

Daniel had lived through the reign of Nebuchadnezzar and his grandson Belshazzar and now the conquering king of Medo-persian empire, Darius. But his reputation was spotless and became evident to the new king to – so much that he made Daniel one of 3 administrators appointed to rule over the 120 regional administrators (Daniel 6:1-2). Darius became so impressed with Daniel that he planned on putting Daniel over his entire empire. Daniel demonstrated all the characteristics of a faithful steward that Paul centuries later referred to in 1 Corinthians 4:2.

Being a faithful – honest – trustworthy – wise employee never goes out of style nor becomes obsolete. Such are taught and preached and gifted to Christ followers by Christ himself and in His Word. Non-Christians may debate or deny or dispute Christ’s divinity or miracles or resurrection, but they cannot deny His teaching and character and example. They cannot deny the better life of character and conduct He demonstrated and taught his disciples and followers. They cannot deny the positive change demonstrated in the lives of His followers over the centuries.

They can deny the conduct of many who have claimed to be followers but failed to surrender their lives and wills to Him. They can deny those who only were Christian when it was popular but failed to sustain the higher level of living in the midst of persecution and trial that Daniel and Christ and many others consistently demonstrated.

It is said that a man’s true character and “true colors” are revealed in the midst of trials and tragedy and suffering and especially when facing death. That is because the foundation he built his life on is revealed and tested. A foundation of sand built on selfish pride or lies or pretends will crumble under testing. It cannot carry the extra weight life’s dark times place on it. BUT CHRIST HAS AND DOES AND WILL CARRY THAT WEIGHT AND MUCH MORE! THE PROOF OF COUNTLESS GENERATIONS OF FAITHFUL FOLLOWERS IS AMPLE PROOF! THE PROOF OF LIVING FAI THFUL FOLLOWERS ADDS TO THAT PROOF TOO! WHAT ABOUT THOSE YOU KNOW PERSONALLY? HOW ABOUT YOU?

At your job, in your home, in your personal life, in your church—faithfulness is what God seeks in every situation.

“Spiritual advancement is measured by faithful obedience.” Watchman Nee

3/12/20 THE PRIORITY OF CHARACTER 12

This is a faithful saying: If a man desires the position of a bishop, he desires a good work. A bishop then must be blameless.1 Timothy 3:1-2

RECOMMENDED SCRIPTURE READING: DANIEL 6:4-5 ^“4So the governors and satraps sought to find some charge against Daniel concerning the kingdom; but they could find no charge or fault, because he was faithful; nor was there any error or fault found in him. ⁵Then these men said, “We shall not find any charge against this Daniel unless we find it against him concerning the law of his God.”

COMMENTS: Have you ever been or knew of someone who endured a false – fabricated charge or character attacked. What about someone who was blamed for a mistake or faulty work that was done by someone else. Let’s look at someone who was faultless but still ended up in a lion’s den. Those who conspired against Daniel were not motivated by justice but by jealousy. They could find no fault in his work, devotion, or character. He told the truth, worked honestly and was faithful in all ways. Few could say that or even come close to living to that standard.

But that standard became Daniel’s norm not because he was special but because he had such a close relationship with God. So even his adversaries could not find fault with him (Daniel 6:4). The only thing they found usable was his faithfulness to pray regularly. Their scheme became a plan to have the king declare it illegal to worship and pr ay to anyone but him, a ploy to the kings vanity and pride. Pride has a way of driving us to do things we normally wouldn’t and harm innocent or beloved people. Daniel had given King Darius only faithfulness and wise council and had won the king’s trust and even friendship. But all that changed when the king was tricked into signing a law ordering all to worship the king, which sounds like what King Nebuchadnezzar did many year s earlier. The king, by his own law was forced to condemn Daniel to death by hungry lions, causing him much remorse. But King Darius, like King Nebuchadnezzar was to discover Daniel’s God and the reason for Daniel’s faith in God.

Paul said that desiring to lead is a good thing. Even more noteworthy is when one’s character is so outstanding that reason demands that the person be called to lead. That’s what happened to Daniel in Persia. His character was so pure that his fellow leaders were jealous and sought to find some cause for his disqualification. But none could be found! “They could find no charge or fault . . . nor was there any error or fault found in him” (Daniel 6:4).

May our character be blemish free so that others are able to see the life of God in us and give Him the praise (Matthew 5:16).

Everything in life is a test of character. John Blanchard

3/13/20 A Waterfall in Reverse 13

Hold fast. 2 Timothy 1:13

RECOMMENDED SCRIPTURE: 2 Timothy 1:8-14 ⁸Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me His prisoner, but share with me in the sufferings for the gospel according to the power of God, ⁹who has saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace which was given to us in Christ Jesus before time began, ¹⁰but has now been revealed by the appearing of our Savior Jesus Christ, who has abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel, ¹¹to which I was appointed a preacher, an apostle, and a teacher of the Gentiles. ¹²For this reason I also suffer these things; nevertheless I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that He is able to keep what I have committed to Him until that Day.¹³Hold fast the pattern of sound words which you have heard from me, in faith and love which are in Christ Jesus. ¹⁴That good thing which was committed to you, keep by the Holy Spirit who dwells in us.

COMMENTS: I remember, as a boy, using an Encyclopedia at our local library to research for a school report assignment. Students today use internet from home. How things have changed. But, anyway, I came across pictures and story of a car that coasted up a hill. Story went on to explain car really was going downhill but the ground profile gave the appearance it was coasting uphill. This morning I also read of an example of a waterfall with water flowing up the cliff instead of down the cliff. Further explanation revealed location was Cliffs of Mohr and mystery was due to sever strong wind surges blowing up the cliff with such force so to drive the water falling down the cliff to move back up the cliff. Apparently the abnormality only would last a short time during gusts or spurts of extremely high winds.

Likewise, you or I are capable of doing work or tasks for short spirits or surges beyond our physically limits possible to sustain. But sustaining such will only exhaust and leave us defeated. But if we seek help, we can together sustain a much higher level of labor.

Well, we all have experienced gusts and gales from society and culture and even from piers and family attacking our morals, behaviors, habits, and even our thoughts. Daniel was pressured to postpone or hide his daily practice of prayer / fellowship with God. But Daniel refused to be bullied into disobedience to God. His habit of prayer provided the connection to God that was the lifeline enabling him to demonstrate and sustain the level of integrity and wisdom and courage that King Nebuchadnezzar and later King Darius depended on and admired and trusted in Daniel, but also the qualities Daniel’s adversaries were jealous of and were most threatened by. The qualities that motivated them to scheme against Daniel.

What is most noticeable and significant for me about Daniel is how he sustained such a high level of integrity and faithfulness in character in his relationship with God from youth to extreme age, but also how well he withstood the powerful surges of opposing winds of temptation and opposition trying to bring him down. The lion’s den is the recorded and most famous one, but am sure there were countless other examples not recorded in history but equally significant that we will learn of in heaven. Success started when Daniel resolved, as a young man to remain undefiled and faithful to God. His decision was challenged when his captors tried to force him to eat defiled foods. As an old man, after a lifetime of fellowship and faithfulness to God, Daniel’s faith had grown stronger but he still was aware of his need for constant fellowship with God. He knew he still remained weak and vulnerable if he compromised his fellowship time with God.

Daniel was not superhuman nor “extra holy” but simply focused. His top priority was his relationship with God. He valued that relationship more than anything else, even life, and it showed. We all, including me, need to strive for such a resolve and just do it and not allow life’s pressures and even bursts and surges of temptations and distractions and bullying disrupt our time either. We can’t change the past or redo past failings but we do have the power to change the present and ability to prepare so can change future as it becomes the present.

Obedience to God’s principles is our highest and most important commitment. Our “world view” and “moral standard”, our biblical beliefs and behaviors may be offensive to the world, but standing against the world’s pressure is vital and only possible if we have God standing with us. He will and is eager to do so, but only if we open our heart and mind and will to welcome Him. 2 Timothy 1:13-14 “Hold fast the pattern of sound words…. That good thing which was committed to you, keep by the Holy Spirit who dwells in us”

“The swift wind of compromise is a lot more devastating than the sudden jolt of misfortune.”
Charles Swindoll

3/14/20 Marching around Jericho with God 14

They marched around the city seven times. Joshua 6:15

RECOMMENDED SCRIPTURE Hebrews 11:30-40: ³⁰By faith the walls of Jericho fell down after they were encircled for seven days. ³¹By faith the harlot Rahab did not perish with those who did not believe, when she had received the spies with peace.³²And what more shall I say? For the time would fail me to tell of Gideon and Barak and Samson and Jephthah, also of David and Samuel and the prophets: ³³who through faith subdued kingdoms, worked righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions, ³⁴quenched the violence of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, out of weakness were made strong, became valiant in battle, turned to flight the armies of the aliens. ³⁵Women received their dead raised to life again.Others were tortured, not accepting deliverance, that they might obtain a better resurrection. ³⁶Still others had trial of mockings and scourgings, yes, and of chains and imprisonment. ³⁷They were stoned, they were sawn in two, were tempted, were slain with the sword. They wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins, being destitute, afflicted, tormented— ³⁸of whom the world was not worthy. They wandered in deserts and mountains, in dens and caves of the earth.³⁹And all these, having obtained a good testimony through faith, did not receive the promise.”

COMMENTS: The story of the destruction of Jericho is an inspiring one, especially in including Rehab. Also note worthy is fact that all the days and times they marched around Jericho, there was absolutely no physical indication that marching was going to do any good. They did so simply because God told them too. No walls showed any cracks developing and no tremors shook the ground even a little bit during those days of marching. They marched for 7 days and even after that and even after marching 6 times around the city that last day, no evidence of something happening. No not one small clue other than God told them to do that .

But when they completed the 7th time on the 7th day, did the ground shake and the walls began to crumble. The walls fell without harming those outside the walls and the one portion of the wall untouched was where Rehab and her family were, which was exactly where the spies instructed them to be. Following God’s instructions exactly is what He requires and what we desperately need to do.

Our question is often, “what is the least I must do to obey and walk in God’s Will?” when our question should be, “when does God want me to stop?”

Obedience to God is typically not what we want to do or when we want to but most of the time, once we get started and get our minds into it, we become motivated and more focused on doing that will. For me, I tend to over schedule or set expectations too high for myself and hurry too fast through days tasks. Instead, often I force myself to take time to stop and visit with someone at the post office or bank or store I cross paths with instead of saying “hi” and hurrying past just to stay on schedule.

Truth is, it really doesn’t matter if I get the garage cleaned up today or tomorrow or next week. It really doesn’t matter if I get most tasks done today or tomorrow, but it does matter if I make a difference in conversation or a listening ear stopping to listen to someone and converse with them – taking t he opportunity God gives often to share His love and grace with others, especially when someone needs a listening ear or a helping hand. Take a moment to reflect on such a time you have experienced. Was there a time when you later wished you had stopped and taken more time than did at the time? Each of us can recall such times. God’s grace to us provides healing and redemption so we can move on, but not making the same mistakes again require greater discipline on our part and continue abiding council from Him as well.

God often requires us to obey Him without any evidence of urgency or results He knows will come, simply to test and exercise and strengthen our faith and obedience. Would we obey Him fully without any knowledge of positive results simply because He asked us to obey? Would that be enough? Well, it should. Even though He tells us our faithfulness and obedience will not be in vain and all examples in scripture supports that, most also indicate that evidence usually comes much later after most of the time and energy committed to obedience has been made. The lion’s den or the gathering of loved ones to a place of safety that may be where enemies know we are or time spent doing something God wants instead of doing a task we really want done first . All these situations we all experience often daily are choices that become easier as we reflect on past experiences both when we made wise choices and when we made foolish choices based on our own priorities and desires and plans.

So who will we obey going forward? Will we allow God led distractions and plans delay or change our plans or will we say no or later to Him? Will we make plans knowing distractions will come so make provisions for them?

The Lord does things in His own creative ways. In the story of the battle of Jericho, the Israelites were eager to possess the Promised Land. They had left the wilderness, crossed the River Jordan, and were ready to claim their inheritance. But Jericho blocked their path, and Jericho was a formidable city. The Lord told the Israelites to march around the city for seven days, and the walls would come tumbling down. And they did.

What is your Jericho? What is blocking you from claiming God’s promises and inheritance? March around that obstacle with prayer and praise for as long as it takes. Let God give you the victory in His own nique way.

Your place is not to question God, nor doubt Him—but to obey Him. Kay Arthur

3/15/20 PRAISE THE LORD ANYWAY 15

I will call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised; so shall I be saved from my enemies. Psalm 18:3

3/17/20 THE VALUE OF PROPHECY 17

So shall My word be that goes forth from My mouth; it shall not return to Me void, but it shall accomplish what I please, and it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it. Isaiah 55:11

RECOMMENDED READING: PSALM 19:7-11 ” The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul; The testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple;⁸The statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart; The commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes;⁹The fear of the Lord is clean, enduring forever; The judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether.¹⁰More to be desired are they than gold, Yea, than much fine gold; Sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb.¹¹Moreover by them Your servant is warned, And in keeping them there is great reward.”

COMMENTS: History proves over and over again in each and every generation that God is real and present and in control. All the long list of characteristic – attributes that describe God’s nature and will and attitude towards each generation does not change. The sacrifice and mission Christ endured and embraced exampled and supported all these characteristics and attitudes. God not only created but stayed involved and in control all through history. He allowed free will and freedom to choose good or evil, harm and destruction or healing, a relationship with God or rejection of God and all God holds precious and important. Freedom to follow God’s Will and plan or satan’s deceptive lures.

Every generation teaches us a common answer. God allows free will to follow satan’s lures, which has been masked in religion and self indulgences and even personal goals and dreams, instead of seeking out and following God’s Will and plan. But He gives instruction and reveals consequences so we can know and understands both the choices and consequences or benefits of those choices if we sincerely want to know. Those who seek to know and follow God’s Will may endure persecution and resistance from satan and his followers bit ultimately will finish well and enter eternity to enjoy God with the company of fellow followers to enjoy all God has been and is prepared for them and us , and all who trust and follow – obey Him. All who accept His gift of forgiveness and redemption. History reveals that God permits free will to choose but not free will in choosing consequences. That choice and timing of implementing the consequences or delaying or forgiving them are solely in His hands. His mercies are the choice He prefers to give but judgment and death are the choices He implements when necessary to prevent sin’s destructive result to go unchecked.

George Santayana, a famous Spanish philosopher, said in 1905 “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.” Winston Churchill restated those words in 1948 “Those who fail to learn from history are condemned to repeat it.” History is repeated every generation. Ambitious tyrants still try to win followers and armies to help them defeat enemies and gain world control by force.

Learning from history should teach us the benefits of repentance and following Christ – Biblical teaching and instruction, and dead ends of following selfish ambitions and behavior of sin nature individually and nationally.

Learning from history means not making the same mistake or sin over and over expecting a more positive outcome that never happens. Also, learning to follow and repeat choices that repeatedly give a more positive outcome.

Daniel is one who followed the second and not only survived Babylon the rule of 4 tyrant rulers but thrived and had prominence and respect of those kings and from their subjects. Daniel became God’s powerful teacher of who God is – what He is like – what He does and wants.

God gave Daniel a glimpse into the future that still has not been fully fulfilled yet. The prophetic visions given by God to Daniel give us assurance that God sees the beginning from the end and knew the end from the beginning of time too and is involved and in control of both and everything in between. Daniel’s vision(s) are recorded in the first 7 chapters of Daniel, but chapter 7 reveals the 4 kingdoms, each inferior to but conquering the previous one. Each becoming more brutal and destructive. The worst being the last. They were Babylon – Medo/Persia, Greece, and Rome. Rome was never defeated but crumbled under its own corruption and was divided by its 4 generals and will be restored for a time at the end time of Christ’s return. Study of prophecy includes studying history as well as studying the future because both include God’s power and knowledge and involvement. His trustworthiness and determination to keep His promises.

“Faith cannot stand, unless it be founded on the promises of God.” John Calvin

3/18/20 ONE TRUE KING 18

Then to Him was given dominion and glory and a kingdom, that all peoples, nations, and languages should serve Him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and His kingdom the one which shall not be destroyed.
Daniel 7:14

Recommended Reading: EXODUS 20:1-6 “And God spoke all these words:²“I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery.³“You shall have no other gods before^[^a^] me.⁴“You shall not make for yourself an image in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below. ⁵You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God, punishing the children for the sin of the parents to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me, ⁶but showing love to a thousand generations of those who love me and keep my commandments.”

COMMENTS: God has demonstrated through His creation and relationship with His creation the capacity to love and forgive and have a loving relationship with His creation. The recorded interaction with humans has included both provision and blessing and communication directly and through prophets. That interaction included His response to faithful obedience and to deliberate and defiance in sin and disobedience. During these times God’s response to obedience has been swift but His response to sin and disobedience has been slow and long suffering but devastating when all warnings were exhausted. The stories of Job and of Joseph reveal to us how devastating sin is to the guilty and to those exposed to the that devastation, even if not guilty of those sins. God does allow righteous and obedient followers to suffer and endure hardship and pain and even death at times at the hands of sinful and evil people. He even allows satan to administer such directly within limits too. Not as punishment nor because of a desire to do harm, but in order to exercise and strengthen the faith and reliance on Him and in order to give them credible lives of faithfulness during hardship to make them effective in positively influencing others who are weaker in their faith. For some, like Daniel and Job, tests came with an escape just prior to imminent death but not before pain and suffering begin to grip their minds and bodies. Others like all the Disciples except John and millions of Christians during that time and centuries since were martyred for their faith at the hand of evil Roman soldiers and rulers and similar tyrants and pagan army soldiers and misguided terrorists since.

The common part of each story is satan’s determination to stop the powerful witness each believer has. To stop them directly or through those who do satan’s bidding. Well, as hard as satan has and continues to try, he cannot prevent God’s Will and Plan being implemented on schedule and as planned. God even uses satan’s evil action and work to accomplish His Plan. When will satan learn? When will humans learn? Well, sad, but satan will never learn and humans can only learn by rejecting satan’s temptations and embracing God’s Word and the relationship with God His Holy Spirit enables and Christ paid dearly to offer to each human. But as long as satan is not bound and prevented from tempting humans, humans will continue to more often than not choose satan instead of God. But a few do choose God and a few do choose to be in relationship with God.

MAKE THIS LENTEN SEASON A TIME WHEN YOU AND I CHOOSE TO AND RESOLVE TO SUSTAINING THE CHOICE TO FOLLOW CHRIST AND HIS LIFE GIVING SPIRIT WHILE TURNING AWAY FROM SATAN AND HIS DECEPTIONS. LETS ACCEPT GOD’S HAND OF HELP AND STRENGTH TO STRENGTHEN AND MAKE OUR LIVES DEMONSTRATE THE CHARACTER AND INTEGRITY AND RIGHT LIVING CHOICES, LIKE DANIEL, THAT WILL BE EFFECTIVE IN PERSUADING OTHERS TO FOLLOW HIM TOO.

Our words help but our lives give a message our words cannot give as effectively. Scripture tells us to live our witness but be ready with words to share the reason for our conduct and hope when asked.

1 Peter 3:15 “¹⁵But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect,”

There has never been an earthly king deemed worthy to be worshiped by all mankind. Some kings have thought themselves worthy and have tried to enforce their sovereignty. The Bible says such a King will appear one day who will gain the loyalty of all except those who faithfully belong to God.

Daniel the prophet saw that king in a vision, pictured as a little horn (Daniel 7:8). But his rule was cut short by “One like the Son of Man” (Daniel 7:13) who was given authority over all the earth by the Father (the “Ancient of Days” in Daniel 7:9). This “Son of Man” is the same Christ of whom Paul prophesied that every knee will bow and every tongue will confess Him as Lord (Philippians 2:10-11).

In a day of false rulers and kings, we can rest assured that even the knees of earthly kings will one day bow to the true King of kings (Revelation 19:16).

“The dearest idol I have known, whate’er that idol be, help me to tear it from Thy throne and worship only Thee.” William Cowper, “Walking With God”

3/19/20 WAVES OF GRACE 19

And of His fullness we have all received, and grace for grace. John 1:16

Scripture: PSALM 56:1-8 “Be merciful to me, O God, for man would swallow me up; Fighting all day he oppresses me.²My enemies would hound me all day, For there are many who fight against me, O Most High.³Whenever I am afraid, I will trust in You.⁴In God (I will praise His word), In God I have put my trust; I will not fear. What can flesh do to me?⁵All day they twist my words;All their thoughts are against me for evil.⁶They gather together,They hide, they mark my steps,When they lie in wait for my life.⁷Shall they escape by iniquity?In anger cast down the peoples, O God! ⁸You number my wanderings; Put my tears into Your bottle; Are they not in Your book?”

COMMENTS: Every living being is completely reliant on God and every living being is at His mercy, no matter if he or she knows and believes and admits it or not. The evidence of God’s handiwork and continued involvement in His creation is evident everywhere all the time. Every heart beat – every breath – every movement of hand and limb and muscle – every word and thought and sight – every comprehension. Gravity, life, light, heat, all elements that life depends on are the result of His involvement and grace.

Why does He give life with all its sustaining earthly elements to the just and unjust alike? Why does He bless the just and unjust alike?

Matthew 5:45 “That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust.”

God’s love is a wonderful mystery and miracle. His love and grace are showered on all because His will is that all would come to Him for mercy – forgiveness – fellowship. But God’s time of Grace is not infinite. T here is coming a time when judgment will be rendered and justice will prevail. As with the torment satan administered on Job, God only permitted that torment for a time and within limits and finally God told satan enough and restored Job’s blessings.

Jesus is preparing a wonderful eternal home for us, only permitting suffering and sickness and temptation within limits and for a time before He will say enough and send satan away. T hose who follow him will be sent away for judgment with him. Those who follow Christ and received His redemption will enter the home He has been preparing with those through the ages who were faithful too.

God’s eternal perspective is long term. He endured our suffering with us so He knows and understands how we feel but He also knows the benefits of that suffering. The positive impact on us and those who know us. He knows the eternal benefits that will overshadow what is endured short term.

God will help us see and understand His perspective if we seek and enter the fellowship and relationship He longs to have with us. There are few Christians that demonstrate the depth of relationship and strength in character and demonstration of their faithful walk with Christ like Joni Eareckson Tata. It has been her 50 plus years enduring pain and physical limitations of being paralyzed and having cancer that has transformed her from being a self centered shallow Christian to being “a woman after God’s own heart” There is a cost and sacrifice necessary in order to be so transformed. He still hasn’t granted Joni a fully healed and restored life but has granted her a long life far beyond what others with similar injuries have lived and endured.

A popular hymn says, “When sorrows like sea billows roll”… but goes on to say “it is well with my soul”. Picture the waves and swells experienced a large body of water like a lake or ocean.

Then picture God’s grace and abiding presence coming in even greater swells and waves bringing hope and assurance. When we look to Him, we are calmed as we see Him as greater than our circumstances and how He is managing them.

God cares for us so deeply He records our sorrows. Psalm 56:8 says: “You number my wanderings; put my tears into Your bottle; are they not in Your book?”

In some way God captures our tears in His bottle and our pain in His Book. In other words, He cares for every heart pang. If He has captured your tears in His bottle, then let the anointing oil of the Holy Spirit bring comfort to your heart. And if He has written your hurts in His heavenly book, open His earthly Book and find a promise. You will receive one wave of divine grace after another.

“Tears are the diamonds of heaven; sighs are a part of the music of Jehovah’s court and are numbered with “the most sublime strains that reach the majesty on high.””
Charles H. Spurgeon

3/20/20 Jehoshaphat’s Musical March 20

He appointed those who should sing to the Lord, and who should praise the beauty of holiness, as they went out before the army. 2 Chronicles 20:21

RECOMMENDED READING: 2 CHRONICLES 20:1-31 “ It happened after this that the people of Moab with the people of Ammon, and others with them besides the Ammonites,^[^a^] came to battle against Jehoshaphat. ²Then some came and told Jehoshaphat, saying, “A great multitude is coming against you from beyond the sea, from ^[^b^]Syria; and they are in Hazazon Tamar” (which is En Gedi). ³And Jehoshaphat feared, and set ^[^c^]himself to seek the Lord, and proclaimed a fast throughout all Judah. ⁴So Judah gathered together to ask help from the Lord; and from all the cities of Judah they came to seek the Lord.⁵Then Jehoshaphat stood in the assembly of Judah and Jerusalem, in the house of the Lord, before the new court, ⁶and said: “O Lord God of our fathers, are You not God in heaven, and do You not rule over all the kingdoms of the nations, and in Your hand is there not power and might, so that no one is able to withstand You? ⁷Are You not our God, who drove out the inhabitants of this land before Your people Israel, and gave it to the descendants of Abraham Your friend forever? ⁸And they dwell in it, and have built You a sanctuary in it for Your name, saying, ⁹‘If disaster comes upon us—sword, judgment, pestilence, or famine—we will stand before this temple and in Your presence (for Your name is in this temple), and cry out to You in our affliction, and You will hear and save.’ ¹⁰And now, here are the people of Ammon, Moab, and Mount Seir—whom You would not let Israel invade when they came out of the land of Egypt, but they turned from them and did not destroy them— ¹¹here they are, rewarding us by coming to throw us out of Your possession which You have given us to inherit. ¹²O our God, will You not judge them? For we have no power against this great multitude that is coming against us; nor do we know what to do, but our eyes are upon You.”¹³Now all Judah, with their little ones, their wives, and their children, stood before the Lord.¹⁴Then the Spirit of the Lord came upon Jahaziel the son of Zechariah, the son of Benaiah, the son of Jeiel, the son of Mattaniah, a Levite of the sons of Asaph, in the midst of the assembly. ¹⁵And he said, “Listen, all you of Judah and you inhabitants of Jerusalem, and you, King Jehoshaphat! Thus says the Lord to you: ‘Do not be afraid nor dismayed because of this great multitude, for the battle is not yours, but God’s. ¹⁶Tomorrow go down against them. They will surely come up by the Ascent of Ziz, and you will find them at the end of the ^[^d^]brook before the Wilderness of Jeruel. ¹⁷You will not need to fight in this battle. Position yourselves, stand still and see the salvation of the Lord, who is with you, O Judah and Jerusalem!’ Do not fear or be dismayed; tomorrow go out against them, for the Lord is with you.”¹⁸And Jehoshaphat bowed his head with his face to the ground, and all Judah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem bowed before the Lord, worshiping the Lord. ¹⁹Then the Levites of the children of the Kohathites and of the children of the Korahites stood up to praise the Lord God of Israel with voices loud and high.²⁰So they rose early in the morning and went out into the Wilderness of Tekoa; and as they went out, Jehoshaphat stood and said, “Hear me, O Judah and you inhabitants of Jerusalem: Believe in the Lord your God, and you shall be established; believe His prophets, and you shall prosper.” ²¹And when he had consulted with the people, he appointed those who should sing to the Lord, and who should praise the beauty of holiness, as they went out before the army and were saying: “Praise the Lord, For His mercy endures forever.”²²Now when they began to sing and to praise, the Lord set ambushes against the people of Ammon, Moab, and Mount Seir, who had come against Judah; and they were defeated. ²³For the people of Ammon and Moab stood up against the inhabitants of Mount Seir to utterly kill and destroy them. And when they ^[^e^]had made an end of the inhabitants of Seir, they helped to destroy one another.²⁴So when Judah came to a place overlooking the wilderness, they looked toward the multitude; and there were their dead bodies, fallen on the earth. No one had escaped.²⁵When Jehoshaphat and his people came to take away their spoil, they found among them an abundance of valuables on the ^[^f^]dead bodies, and precious jewelry, which they stripped off for themselves, more than they could carry away; and they were three days gathering the spoil because there was so much. ²⁶And on the fourth day they assembled in the Valley of ^[^g^]Berachah, for there they blessed the Lord; therefore the name of that place was called The Valley of Berachah until this day. ²⁷Then they returned, every man of Judah and Jerusalem, with Jehoshaphat in front of them, to go back to Jerusalem with joy, for the Lord had made them rejoice over their enemies. ²⁸So they came to Jerusalem, with stringed instruments and harps and trumpets, to the house of the Lord. ²⁹And the fear of God was on all the kingdoms of those countries when they heard that the Lord had fought against the enemies of Israel. ³⁰Then the realm of Jehoshaphat was quiet, for his God gave him rest all around.³¹So Jehoshaphat was king over Judah. He was thirty-five years old when he became king, and he reigned twenty-five years in Jerusalem.”

COMMENTS: Today’s scripture is a powerful testimony to God’s engagement and faithfulness to those who surrender to His Will and put their trust in Him. Take a moment to imagine a huge invading army pressing down on King Jehoshaphat. His army was no match to the invading forces but the prophet Jahaziel received and gave God’s instruction. That instruction was to stand back and sing praises to God and watch God fight their battle for them. They were not to prepare for battle with armor and sword and bow-arrow but with voice. Would the king obey God’s command without preparing his defenses? The story would have ended badly because God would not have defended them if they had doubted and disobeyed God’s instruction. But king Jehoshaphat chose to trust God and do exactly as Jahaziel told them. He selected the choir to sing and remain defenseless without weapons. But, oh the weapons they took up and the victory they witnessed! Their weapon was God Himself and their preparation was choosing the music and practice of voice for the battle.

That great choir began to sing as the invading army advanced invading Judah from the south. King Jehoshaphat had no way of offending the capital, Jerusalem. He felt panic as he saw the invading army approach but responded by summoning those present to pray. He led prayer for those with him. He said “We have no power against this great multitude that is coming against us; nor do we know what to do, but our eyes are upon You” (vs 12). When he finished praying, the prophet Jahaziel shouted, “Do not be afraid nor dismayed because of this great multitude, for the battle is not yours, but God’s.” (vs 15)

The next day, Judah’s armies marched to battle but with a unlikely military strategy. The musicians were in the front leading Judah’s army towards the invading army. They witnessed God’s mighty hand of judgment and protection. They witnessed His faithfulness. They witnessed and discovered how God helps and protects those who are faithful to Him. God gathered them to not do battle but to witness His faithfulness.

The next day, Judah’s armies marched into battle, but, in an unlikely military strategy, the musicians went first, praising the Lord, singing, “Praise the Lord, for His mercy endures forever” (verse 21). The armies of the enemy were plundered, and God won the victory.

If you have circumstances coming against you today, march forward with singing, praise, and prayer. The battle is not yours, but God’s.

“Onward, Christian soldiers, marching as to war, with the cross of Jesus going on before!”
Sabine Baring-Gould

3/21/20 “THY KINGDOM COMES, MY KINGDOM GO” 21

But the saints of the Most High shall receive the kingdom, and possess the kingdom forever, even forever and ever. Daniel 7:18

RECOMMENDED SCRIPTURE LUKE 12:22-32 “²²Then He said to His disciples, “Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat; nor about the body, what you will put on. ²³Life is more than food, and the body is more than clothing. ²⁴Consider the ravens, for they neither sow nor reap, which have neither storehouse nor barn; and God feeds them. Of how much more value are you than the birds? ²⁵And which of you by worrying can add one cubit to his stature? ²⁶If you then are not able to do the least, why are you anxious for the rest? ²⁷Consider the lilies, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin; and yet I say to you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. ²⁸If then God so clothes the grass, which today is in the field and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, how much more will He clothe you, O you of little faith?²⁹“And do not seek what you should eat or what you should drink, nor have an anxious mind. ³⁰For all these things the nations of the world seek after, and your Father knows that you need these things. ³¹But seek the kingdom of God, and all these things shall be added to you. ³²“Do not fear, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.”

COMMENTS: Scripture gives us wonderful assurance that God loves and cares for us like not human, even parents, can. He cares for us so completely that we need not worry at all. Considering how God provides and cares for sparrows, as an example, and how Jesus cares for us like a good shepherd cares for his sheep all reinforce overwhelming evidence from our past and recorded history that we need not worry about tomorrow. We only need to focus on knowing and obeying His instruction.

Prayer is a key part of having and maintaining a viable relationship with God. The “Lord’s Prayer” is the best known (Matthew 6:9-13), reflecting the example Christ gave for us to follow. As a human, Christ perfectly exampled the relationship we should strive for with Him like He had with the Father. This prayer includes (vs. 10) “Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.” Jesus is teaching us to Him enough to want and pray that God’s Will be done on earth instead of just hearing and answering our requests and prayer.

To look beyond our needs and needs of loved ones and trust God will provide for us while moving and striving to that goal, the goal of God’s will being done on earth as it is in heaven. This prayer will not be accomplished until Christ returns. The timing of His return is sealed and only knowing to the Father, but evidence that time is approaching is evident in news today and is tied to level of destruction satan’s evil deeds causes. Scripture tells us God will cut the days short with Christ’s return to keep man from destroying himself and world. So timing is determined by the Father but influenced or determined based on destructive evil humans, under inspiration of satan, are inflicting on humans. In other words, we are bringing Christ’s return sooner if we follow satan and slowing Christ’s return when follow Christ’s instruction.

So, since God’s all this before it happens, He has sufficient foreknowledge to set the date of Christ’s return and has already set it. A date only He knows and is preparing for.

Jesus knew He was “the Son of Man” who was given the kingdom by the “Ancient of Days” (Daniel 7:13). And He knew that in Daniel’s vision, that kingdom would be given to “the saints of the Most High” who would possess it forever and ever (verse 18). Indeed, besides telling His disciples to pray for that actualization, Jesus confirmed that their prayer would be answered: “Do not fear, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom” (Luke 12:32). The anticipation of the reality of “Thy kingdom come” should be a source of great confidence and joy.

Don’t lose hope in this world. If you are Christ’s, His kingdom is yours—today and forever.

“Before we can pray, “Lord, Thy Kingdom come,” we must be willing to pray, “My kingdom go.”” Alan Redpath

3/22/20 SOVEREIGN OVER ALL 22 “As Then the kingdom and dominion, and the greatness of the kingdoms under the whole heaven, shall be given to the people, the saints of the Most High. His kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and all dominions shall serve and obey Him.” Daniel 7:27

RECOMMENDED SCRIPTURE READING: 1 CHRONICLES 29:11-13 “¹¹Yours, O Lord, is the greatness,The power and the glory,The victory and the majesty;For all that is in heaven and in earth is Yours;Yours is the kingdom, O Lord,And You are exalted as head over all.¹²Both riches and honor come from You,And You reign over all.In Your hand is power and might;In Your hand it is to make greatAnd to give strength to all.¹³“Now therefore, our God,We thank YouAnd praise Your glorious name.”

COMMENTS: When we acknowledge God as Sovereign, we come to the realization that God alone is in charge and in control. Every generation has had those who were deceived thinking they were in charge or following someone whom they thought was sovereign but every one sooner or later either willingly or by force had to submit to the Will of God. Even King Nebuchadnezzar, the worst and most powerful ruler of his day who was feared by every nation he conquered and all over the known world by reputation, was forced to submit to God’s sovereign Will. God forced him to eat and act like a wild animal, incapacitated and driven by his insanity away from his wealth and power and luxury and throne for 7 years. It was equally amazing that someone did not kill him while in that vulnerable situation.

Well, God not only judged him and forced him into such a humbling state, but put a protective shield around him. Nebuchadnezzar did eventually repent and surrender to God’s sovereign Will. We would do well to learn from his example and Daniel’s faithful witness to him and become Daniels to our friends and relatives and neighbors and co-workers and ….

The oldest widely used authorized version (translation) of the Bible was completed and published in 1611 as the “King James Authorized Version”. It was the first translation made accessible to and used by the common population at first under rule of King James and ultimately by the world. The impact of this translation was profound then and continues eve n today. Matthew 6:13 gives the final line of the Lord’s Prayer, “For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen”—the last line in the Lord’s Prayer (Matthew 6:13, KJV). But some modern English translations of the Bible omit that final line of the prayer.

The omission is not a theological concern but because that line was not in the original Greek manuscripts. The Greek texts used by the King James translators had the line; modern analysis of Greek texts suggest it wasn’t part of Jesus’ original words. Since the theological importance of the line—God’s sovereignty over the kings, nations, and affairs of the world—is well attested throughout Scripture—there is no need to debate its inclusion (1 Chronicles 29:11-13; Daniel 2:20). Granted, adding to scripture should be accepted or tolerated, but these words of acknowledgment of God’s sovereign authority and control is not debatable. HE IS SOVEREIGN AND HAS ALWAYS BEEN AND ALWAYS WILL BE!!

In a day when it seems kings and nations do whatever they desire, remember: God sets up kings and removes kings (Daniel 2:21). He rules over all.

“To be God and sovereign are inseparable.”
Stephen Charnock

3/23/20 WORDS OF COMFORT 23 And so we have the prophetic word confirmed, which you do well to heed as a light that shines in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts. 2 Peter 1:19

Scripture Reading: PSALM 119:105 “¹⁰⁵Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path..”

COMMENTS: The Bible is still the most printed and popular book ever printed. It is accessible to more people in the world and in the most languages than any other book. It provides life changing wisdom and direction and so much more. What other book can connect us with the Creator and Savior? What other book gives life? So many have experienced Christ’s forgiveness and a sustained life changing relationship with Him solely by reading the Bible. The Bible gives amble instruction and guidance to the sincere seeker. The Bible’s words are God inspired and even have God’s spirit in them. That is how life is imparted to seeking readers.

The evidence that the Bible is all this and more is overwhelming both within its own pages and in the lives of Christians who lived by its instruction over the centuries since that first Easter.

The Second Coming of Christ is identified in 1845 passages in the Bible and over 300 are in the New Testament, not only does the Bible give vital instruction and insight of how to live in the present but how to prepare for the future. The future of when it was written but even the future of the readers even today. The Bible is timeless and just as valid today as it was in the days first written. It will be just as valid tomorrow too.

It may be human nature to neglect or take for granted that which costs little to obtain or replace if lost. The Bible is precious in countries where government hinders or prohibits possession and reading of the Bible. But in USA and other free countries, bibles are available for as little as an hour’s wage and free from many churches, the value of scripture is diminished by the typical or average believer. BUT THAT IS NOT TRUE EVERYWHERE NOR BY EVERY BELIEVER. With access to scripture comes the responsibility God places on believers to study and share the life-giving verses God graces us with in His Word. Likewise, The responsibility of shares those verses with others comes with access and knowledge too. That responsibility increases with access but even believers with one verse hand written on one scrap piece of paper provides opportunity by God to know and gain life from even that one verse and responsibility to share that knowledge too.

God blesses us with life and in order to share and point others to source of that life too. He doesn’t make sharing a condition to receiving His life giving forgiveness and redemption but that redemption is completed as we share it, much like a beautiful sunset or wonderful experience is fulfilled and made richer when shared. We are not designed or meant to be alone but in community. The community we are designed for includes our Lord and Savior and Creator, which is One and the Same God, but also with each other as His body of believers. That will be the case in Heaven but He desires for us to enjoy this community while on earth. He desires that all would join this community of believers and desires for that to become our passion and goal too.

The deeper we get into His Word and the more obedient we are in following His guide and Will, the more passionate we become in going deeper and in sharing. That is the natural progression but not always the path we take due to distractions and discouragement and temptations satan torments and distracts us with. God is willing to forgive when we yield but far better for us and others when we become and stay focused on Him doing His Will. That is the best way to prepare for an uncertain future because He not only knows the future, He is already there as well as here too. AMEN? AMEN!

When you don’t know what the future holds, remember Who holds the future. God’s fulfilled prophetic Word gives assurance from the past, peace in the present, and hope for the future.

“An interest in prophecy which is merely speculative and sensational comes perilously close to being sinful.” William Graham Scroggie

3/24/20 WORTHY TO BE PRAISED 24

And at the end of the time I, Nebuchadnezzar, lifted my eyes to heaven, and my understanding returned to me; and I blessed the Most High and praised and honored Him who lives forever: For His dominion is an everlasting dominion, and His kingdom is from generation to generation.
Daniel 4:34

RECOMMENDED SCRIPTURE REVELATION 4:9-11 – ” ⁹Whenever the living creatures give glory and honor and thanks to Him who sits on the throne, who lives forever and ever, ¹⁰the twenty-four elders fall down before Him who sits on the throne and worship Him who lives forever and ever, and cast their crowns before the throne, saying:¹¹“You are worthy, O Lord,To receive glory and honor and power; For You created all things, And by Your will they exist and were created.”

COMMENTS: The word “worship” means to give and expressive adoration and reverence to a deity or for us God the Creator and Sustainer and Savior. The Almighty Sovereign God. Webster defines worship as: “1: reverence offered a divine being or supernatural power also: an act of expressing such reverence. 2: a form of religious practice with its creed and ritual. 3: extravagant respect or admiration for or devotion to an object of esteem worship of the dollar.”

Worship is an action. Worship is a choice. Worship is an emotion. Worship is an expression of awe and reverence and surrender. Traditional Christian community worship includes singing hymns of praise and adoration, prayer, reading scripture, and edification of scripture.

The Bible is clear that Jehovah is God and only One worthy of our worship: “I will call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised” (2 Samuel 22:4; Psalm 18:3).

Some, like King Nebuchadnezzar discovered that after wasting precious time trying to deny that truth and forcing his subjects to give him worship only intended for God. Finally, He came to the conclusion that only God is worthy of worship after the prophecy Daniel told him about himself was fulfilled. Nebuchadnezzar acted and lived like a wild animal for 7 years until he finally came to his senses and looked to heaven and acknowledged and worshipped God (Daniel 4:28-37). He had witnessed the power of God through Daniel before, but this time it touched him personally.

God’s worthiness grows with the realization of His impact in our life. Praise Him today for what He has done for you.

“What or whom we worship determines our behavior.” John Murray

3/25/20 IN GOD’S HAND – DEAD OR ALIVE 25

To this end Christ died and rose and lived again, that He might be Lord of both the dead and the living. Romans 14:9

RECOMMENDED READING: ROMANS 14:7-14 “ ⁷For none of us lives to himself, and no one dies to himself. ⁸For if we live, we live to the Lord; and if we die, we die to the Lord. Therefore, whether we live or die, we are the Lord’s. ⁹For to this end Christ died and rose and lived again, that He might be Lord of both the dead and the living. ¹⁰But why do you judge your brother? Or why do you show contempt for your brother? For we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ. ¹¹For it is written: “As I live, says the Lord,Every knee shall bow to Me,And every tongue shall confess to God.”

¹²So then each of us shall give account of himself to God. ¹³Therefore let us not judge one another anymore, but rather resolve this, not to put a stumbling block or a cause to fall in our brother’s way.¹⁴I know and am convinced by the Lord Jesus that there is nothing unclean of itself; but to him who considers anything to be unclean, to him it is unclean.”

COMMENTS: Have you ever witnessed a believer dying? Witnessed as he or she passed over? With modern medicine taking the approach to medicate patients as they die in order to deal with pain, often that experience is hidden from their loved ones. My sister was so medicated but her face glowed as she passed. My mother was medicated too but the confident anticipation of heaven was so real in her face which was evident. My dad’s sister showed that same confident anticipation. My father was more medicated so could not show that too, but I’m equally confident he too was experiencing that same joyful anticipation of heaven and seeing those he knew there too. That same confidence was clearly revealed to us in scripture by those who face death then too. Daniel and his 3 friends, David, the disciples, first century Christians, and certainly Christ Himself. I invite you to reflect on personal experience from loved ones or maybe even personal near-death experience as well. The one thing that bothers me is those who do not profess being a believer who claim to see a warm light and be drawn to it and conclude all religions are equal in being a path to God. Our Bible gives Jesus’ own words and in His own words He claims to be the only way to heaven because His sacrifice on the Cross is the only payment for sin that the Father will accept. I cannot accept any other conclusion and believe you should not either because “the Bible tells me so”. When I read and reflect on believers who entered eternity believing and having accepted Christ’s redemption with that confidence of being forgiven, then what more proof do I need? What more proof do you need? Christ’s life and death and resurrection – His message to the “Good News” you and I are called to share and a life reflecting that Good News is how we are called to live and reflect.

“Christ’s voice sounds now for each of us in loving invitation.” Alexander MacLaren

3/26/20 THE JOURNEY TO JERUSALEM 26

Now it came to pass, when the time had come for Him to be received up, that He steadfastly set His face to go to Jerusalem. Luke 9:51

Recommended Reading: LUKE 9:51-62 “ ⁵¹Now it came to pass, when the time had come for Him to be received up, that He steadfastly set His face to go to Jerusalem, ⁵²and sent messengers before His face. And as they went, they entered a village of the Samaritans, to prepare for Him. ⁵³But they did not receive Him, because His face was set for the journey to Jerusalem. ⁵⁴And when His disciples James and John saw this, they said, “Lord, do You want us to command fire to come down from heaven and consume them, just as Elijah did?” ⁵⁵But He turned and rebuked them, and said, “You do not know what manner of spirit you are of. ⁵⁶For the Son of Man did not come to destroy men’s lives but to save them.” And they went to another village.⁵⁷Now it happened as they journeyed on the road, that someone said to Him, “Lord, I will follow You wherever You go.” ⁵⁸And Jesus said to him, “Foxes have holes and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has nowhere to lay His head.” ⁵⁹Then He said to another, “Follow Me.” But he said, “Lord, let me first go and bury my father.” ⁶⁰Jesus said to him, “Let the dead bury their own dead, but you go and preach the kingdom of God.” ⁶¹And another also said, “Lord, I will follow You, but let me first go and bid them farewell who are at my house.” ⁶²But Jesus said to him, “No one, having put his hand to the plow, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.””

COMMENTS: Jerusalem was the center of leadership opposed to Jesus – His mission – His ministry. To go to Jerusalem meant Jesus would face likely face that leadership, which included both Jewish and Roman leadership and Roman military. Jesus was viewed as an increasing threat to Jewish and Roman leadership. By contrast, Jesus was becoming a source of hope for common people. What He said and did. The way He lived and loved was so profoundly better and more powerful positively than anyone else. Those who knew Jesus wanted to be like Him. The relationship He demonstrated with the Father was appealing. But when Jesus claimed to be God, they had to decide if He was who He said or was He a liar or insane? The answer became clear to those who sincerely wanted to know. Those who refused to believe became blinded by their own ambitions threatened by Him.

Jesus knew what His mission was and knew the cross was where He was heading. He tried to prepare His disciples but they didn’t understand. But how could they? Well, Jesus had focused His ministry thus far in Galilee, away from the political power and dangers of Jerusalem, not due to fear but because He needed to focus on people first. He had done that for nearly 3 years. But now it was time to complete His mission, which could only be done at Jerusalem – at the cross. The journey to Jerusalem is the focus of Luke 9-19.

The disciples thought Jesus was going to Jerusalem to do battle with that leadership and with Roman rule. But, instead, He was going there to do battle with their true enemy, satan. The way He would do battle was foreign to them too. He would do battle by dying and rise from the dead three days later.

His disciples thought He would overthrow the Roman government and usher in the Millennium a world ruler, but Jesus said He was going to suffer and die. They couldn’t absorb that message, so the journey to Jerusalem was bittersweet. Our Lord told those around Him, “No one, having put his hand to the plow, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God” (Luke 9:62).

God wants us to journey toward heaven in victory, setting our face in dedication to Him. Don’t look back, but press forward, awaiting His swift return.

In all true faith there is complete committal to God. Lee Roberson

3/27/20 CHOOSING GRATITUDE, NOT DESPAIR 27

Because you have kept My command to persevere, I also will keep you from the hour of trial which shall come upon the whole world, to test those who dwell on the earth. Revelation 3:10

RECOMMENDED SCRIPTURE READING: REVELATION 3:7-13 “ ⁷“And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write, ‘These things says He who is holy, He who is true, “He who has the key of David, He who opens and no one shuts, and shuts and no one opens”: ⁸“I know your works. See, I have set before you an open door, and no one can shut it; for you have a little strength, have kept My word, and have not denied My name. ⁹Indeed I will make those of the synagogue of Satan, who say they are Jews and are not, but lie—indeed I will make them come and worship before your feet, and to know that I have loved you. ¹⁰Because you have kept My command to persevere, I also will keep you from the hour of trial which shall come upon the whole world, to test those who dwell on the earth. ¹¹Behold, I am coming quickly! Hold fast what you have, that no one may take your crown. ¹²He who overcomes, I will make him a pillar in the temple of My God, and he shall go out no more. I will write on him the name of My God and the name of the city of My God, the New Jerusalem, which comes down out of heaven from My God. And I will write on him My new name.¹³“He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.”

COMMENTS: As I write this devotion, we in USA are in the middle of a world – national – state – community war against the coronavirus epidemic. This virus is dangerous because it is so contagious, which is at its peak prior to carrier having symptoms. Most would not expose others knowingly but this virus is sinister enough to being most contagious prior to symptoms. Yet some have refused to take this illness serious enough to self-quarantine or minimize public gathering exposure to become infected or infect others. Church services and meetings and other public gatherings have been postponed or cancelled along with recommendations of grocery shopping or necessary purchases being made in off store hours to minimize exposure.

So, is this worldwide virus evidence of God’s judgment or a sign of end times we are living in. No human knows, only God knows. However, Jesus did reveal clues for us to judge if the time we are living in is end time so prophecies of future events foretold can be anticipated soon if we are. Many have tried to predict timing of Christ’s return and disasters and dangers and warnings we can expect before He returns and after He does return. It is not my intent to make this devotion a study of bible prophecy, so will simply say weather changes and related disasters, earthquakes and disease epidemics, wars and breakdown of moral values and behavior, increase in violence and associated epidemic fear and anger, breakdown of traditional family and contempt towards biblical moral world view and reverence or even belief in God or His law and instruction.

All this and much more flooding our local and national and world news is supporting and confirming conclusion we are living on the end times and Christ’s return is immanent. Disasters both caused by humans and by forces of “nature” or God all support this conclusion. In fact, prophecy even tells us that human conduct and harm inflicted without regard to consequences (also evident today) will influence timing of Christ’s return to stop it before all mankind is destroyed.

Matthew 24:21-22 “²¹For then there will be great tribulation, such as has not been since the beginning of the world until this time, no, nor ever shall be. ²²And unless those days were shortened, no flesh would be saved; but for the ^[^a^]elect’s sake those days will be shortened.”

Yes, we are living in dangerous time but not without hope and confidence. Those without hope are not Christ followers so we have a powerful opportunity to share that hope during times like this. Christ not only gives us hope but His Holy Spirit councils and guides us to make wise choice that give hope and wisdom in conduct that will help guide ourselves and others not only to a meaningful relationship with our creator but a lifegiving path out of the disaster or tragedy or loss that is being endured presently. Heaven is our ultimate and long-term reason for hope but present help t hat the Holy Spirit and God’s Word provides immediately exceeds anything world wisdom offers or is capable of providing.

Gratitude has a wonderful way of clearing the storm and clouds and fog of fear and panic and desperation and hopelessness. Clear thinking enables us to logically receive and act on true paths out of bad situations. Satan does not want us to get out of despair and danger he has led us into. We are at his mercy when there but God wants us safe, so He offers us a way out but also a way to be in fellowship with Him so we can stay out those pits of disaster and despair.

So, will we follow the deceiver and liar or the Giver and Sustainer of life? Will we just follow Christ when suffering disaster or will we follow Him in good – safe times too? Human tendency is to go our own way during good times and only go to God when have to or have no other option.

So, what must we do? Do what is needed and what we can do to recover and promote recovery of others. Today’s need is to stop the spread of Coronavirus and support treatment of those with it. That means doing what we can while conveying hope and gratitude and confidence only Christ can give. Be the Christ that others will learn and desire in their lives.

Are we living in the end times? Will things get worse? If yes, then we need to do more to be prepared and help others prepare for His return while enduring present and coming dangers and temptations. If we are not in the end times, then what about this should change? I dare say, nothing!! Not one thing!! Everyday should be a day of preparing by having and seeking fellowship and council and forgiveness and hope from our Savior and from His Word and from His Holy Spirit. Then go out and act accordingly responding as our Lord guides with a clear mind and in an attitude of gratitude.

When despair or depression or lack of direction loom down on you and me and on others near us, we need to seek Him and pray for help. He is as near as our breath ready to respond. He bore judgment for our sins on the cross so we can freely come to God’s throne for forgiveness and help without restriction anytime and anywhere knowing He will listen and respond, maybe not as we expect but always the best way.

“God did not appoint us to wrath, but to obtain salvation” (1 Thessalonians 5:9).

Thank God today that Jesus Christ bore our judgment on the cross that we might inherit salvation through Him.

God’s wrath is his righteousness reacting against unrighteousness.
J. I. Packer

AMEN? AMEN!

3/28/20 GRACE THAT IS GREATER 28

And to wait for His Son from heaven, whom He raised from the dead, even Jesus who delivers us from the wrath to come. 1 Thessalonians 1:10

RECOMMENDED READING: 2 THESSALONIANS 2:13-15 “¹³But we are bound to give thanks to God always for you, brethren beloved by the Lord, because God from the beginning chose you for salvation through sanctification by the Spirit and belief in the truth, ¹⁴to which He called you by our gospel, for the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. ¹⁵Therefore, brethren, stand fast and hold the traditions which you were taught, whether by word or our epistle. “

COMMENTS: What does be Christ-like look like. The answer is easy – look at the Gospels to read details of Jesus’ conduct and choices and exact words. Look at the Gospels to read the impact Jesus made in the lives of others.

So it may not be an issue as to being Christ-like is not a better life of influence on others, but the issue for humans is “do we want to live a Christ-like life?” and “we don’t want to give up our possessions or life style in order to be Christ-like”. We tend to focus on what we need to give up instead of focusing on what we gain.

So, what do we lose when we focus on being Christ-like? We lose a passion to gain money and possessions that require constant attention to maintain and repair which rob time and money needed to use and enjoy them. We lose contentment for what we have and joy in being generous toward others. Being Christ-like means living within our means avoiding debt to acquire things we don’t need and robbing resources needed down the road to provide for unrecognized needs. Debt robs from the future – which is unforeseen.

Jim Elliott said:

He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain that which he cannot lose.
Wherever you are – be all there.
God always gives His best to those who leave the choice with him.
When it comes time to die, make sure all you got to do is die.
Grieve not, then, if your sons seem to desert you, but rejoice, rather, seeing the will of God done gladly.
The sound of ‘gentle stillness’ after all the thunder and wind have passed will the ultimate Word from God.

Jim died very young leaving a wife and children, but the impact of his life changed the lives of an entire people responsible for his murder. His story and example and his words continue to transform the lives of all who read and learn from him. He missed seeing his children grow up but God provided for them and his widow. His widow was able to complete his work. His wife has joined him in eternity and one day his children will too.

Most of us will not need to give up what Jim Elliott gave up. Most of us do need to give up our own selfish wants and time in order to spend them on family and church. Giving our time and money as He guides us instead of where we want.

Jim’s most famous statement is “He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain that which he cannot lose.”

I invite you to let his words sink deep into your mind and soul and begin pondering what God is guiding you to do. Giving up time and things which you and I cannot keep for more than a few years in order to gain that which we cannot lose.

So, what is it we need to give up and what is it once gained cannot be taken from us?

I see so many I know who go into debt to get expensive cars and trucks. Going into great debt to gain beautiful homes and campers and boats and …. Then a few years later those things are worn and worthless. Yard sales and flea market and internet selling and trading sites are full of unneeded or unwanted things for sale.

I too am guilty of unnecessary purchases but wise investment and spending choices Arlene and I made before we married and especially during the early years of our marriage all have enabled us to tithe our income and enable us to be generous when needs came up over the years in community and …

God has a wonderful way of changing our priorities so we recognize and willingly give up things and resources we can’t keep and use them to bless and impact others in a positive and permanent way that will last in eternity – yes, even in heaven.

How sad or tragic when debt still being paid on worn out toys prevent us from providing for family and loved ones and ….

Well, changing our life style and mindset is not that easy, especially if involves many years of spending, so discipline and consequences of past poor choices may be necessary to bring healing and change into a more “Christ-like” conduct and life and choices.

Does God discipline His children at times? Yes (Hebrews 12:1-13). But we can be sure that we are not destined for “the wrath to come.” Thank God today for His grace that is greater than all our sins.

“Grace, grace, God’s grace, grace that is greater than all our sin!” Julia H. Johnston

3/29/20 Carry On in Your Heart 29 Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also… John 14:1–3

COMMENTS: What fuels and powers you? What gives you hope and motivates you to “Carry On” when everyone around you and your own emotions shout “Quit – Give Up”. I hope and pray those times of desperation are few and far between. But everyone sooner or later faces such times and most more than a few times in their lifetime. With the Coronavirus threatening every community and family directly or indirectly, it is becoming increasingly evident this virus is more dangerous and contagious than the normal flu virus encountered every winter.

Well, it seems either the good or the bad come out in crisis or difficulty, so let’s reflect and discover what comes out in us during crisis. Take a moment and reflect on past examples.

Some have, with polished skills from practice or from inherent tendencies to focus and fix problems, find it natural to focus on problems and challenges at hand and plow through during crisis. They put their fears and emotions in a compartment and suppress them until later. The problem with this approach is emotions and anxiety can be suppressed for a while but damage happens emotionally and spiritually and practically. Damage that gets worse as continues unresolved. Damage that often becomes permanent and irreparable.

Others tend to follow their emotions and react to them in a way focused more on removing the fear or resolving the reason for the fear first. Such works when their actions match best practice logic dictates, but all too often the result is inadequate or ineffective responses. Besides, fear and despair quickly return when situations causing them returns.

So, what is a better solution that works no matter which or other temperament you and I are? What solution gives strength and hope sufficient to enable us to think logically and clearing, but also opportunities to seek and discern wise council beyond our own abilities?

THE ANSWER IS JESUS! GOD IS JESUS! GOD IS THE FATHER! GOD IS THE HOLY SPIRIT! The Father is presented to us as the keeper and enforcer of the Law. Jesus is presented as our perfect example who lived the perfect human life and paid the price the Father required for us to have opportunity to be forgiven of any and all sin and remove our guilt. The Holy Spirit is God’s abiding presence available to us 24 x 7 x 365 x lifetime to enable and guide us to live a more Christ-like life energized and inspired and empowered. But that is not all. We have His Living Word to instruct and guide us. We have other Christians to support and guide and encourage us too.

Even the Christian must face choices, which means the Christian can make poor or foolish or even sinful choices, so the need to grow and keep deep roots in His life giving and nourishing soil is essential to success.

So, when we see fellow Christians fail, instead of judging them – come along side and help. Pray for them and offer to pray with them. But when they shine, let their example encourage you too but continue to pray for and encourage them too. Consider how words of encouragement have helped you in the past too.

Jesus said, “Do not let your heart be troubled.” John 14:1

Scripture says, “A cord of 3 strands is not easily broken.” Ecclesiastes 4:9

Jesus said, “No man comes to the Father except through me.” John 14:6

Jesus said, “I will never leave you, nor forsake you.” Hebrews 13:5

SO, LET’S START ACTING LIKE WE’VE BEEN SHOWN AND TAUGHT. LET’S START PLUGGING INTO THE ONLY SOURCE THAT ENABLES US TO DO SO. LET’S REFLECT THE CONFIDENT HOPE AND PEACE ONLY GOD CAN PROVIDE. AMEN? AMEN!

3/30/20 Waiting Well 30 September 12, 2013

His lord said to him, “Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.” Matthew 25:21
SCRIPTURE: MATTHEW 24:45-47 “⁴⁵“Who then is a faithful and wise servant, whom his master made ruler over his household, to give them food in due season? ⁴⁶Blessed is that servant whom his master, when he comes, will find so doing. ⁴⁷Assuredly, I say to you that he will make him ruler over all his goods.”

COMMENTS: How skillful are you at waiting? We endure waiting in checkout lines at stores, in doctor’s offices, the list goes on. Most times we only wait 5-10 minutes but even that brief time causes impatience and unrest to show signs of getting our attention, doesn’t it?

Teens get impatient waiting until they are 16 and can get a driver’s permit or when 18 and graduate from high school or when they can get a job and be out on their own or get married and start their own family. Then they get impatient about a job promotion or raise. Then they become impatient looking forward to retirement.

I have lived through all of these and experienced all of these as well as the impatience looking forward to the next milestone of life. I have experienced the disappointment and regret when I tried to get ahead of God’s timing and choices related to those changes and have been amazed how well and how wises God’s choices have been as has the timing of receiving those changes. Delayed promotions have all been better when God provided both timing and promotion. A choice of career and a choice of life partner have especially been such a blessing, but undeniably a blessing because I sought and waiting for God’s choice and timing. I have never gotten over what a blessing Arlene has been for me as my life partner – my wife. My shy and insecure personality made it much easier for me to seek and wait for God’s opportunities and choices, but none the less waiting was vital and then responding as He confirmed and gave opportunity.

A Christian co-worker of mine, and mutual friend to my wife, felt compelled by God to introduce us. The initial opportunity failed because that friend lacked the courage to share her intents with me but she continued to be compelled until 2 years later she yielded and introduced Arlene and I. The rest is history and our wedding was 2 years later.

I have made less significant choices yielding to my own impatience or impulses with inevitable result of regretting those choices. I’ve bought a few cars that way and made some investment choices that way hoping to gain profit and enjoyment but consistently only gave regret and disappointment and loss. God was gracious in every instance to give me an opportunity to sell off those bad choices but loss served as valuable teaching times. But then another opportunity would present itself with the same result when yielded to temptation. My garage is full of duplicates of tools bought at bargain prices but clutter hinders finding those tools when need them.

Well, I am doing better because God often reminds me the consequences when so tempted again to purchase something like that.

Now, maybe my weaknesses seem harmless or insignificant to you, but they have hindered my growth in faith and have robbed resources God intended for other purposes. But in spite of all that, He has provided wisdom and resources to enable Arlene and I to live mostly debt free or at least enduring only brief periods of debt, which has enabled us to be tithers all our married lives. Being free and able to support missionaries and God’s work. Being able to help a neighbor or friend when in need has been a wonderful experience for us too. Far better than any of the toys or recreational things our neighbors or friends have gone into debt to acquire and later sold due to lack of need and use to gain money for more necessary purchases.

Waiting on the Lord is a powerful act of obedience which God does honor but never comes easy. Isaiah 40:31 “³¹But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.” This verse has been a frequent reminder of God’s faithfulness, His commitment to provide for our needs and the wants that will be blessings for us. But the wants that will be harmful to us, He withholds and discourages if we only wait and listen and obey. I’m still working on doing that, how about you?

The other side of the coin is how God waits on us to obey in those times when our wants don’t match His. When He is nudging and pushing us to do or say something that is outside our comfort zone so we put it off. Those tasks we dread are too often the last ones we do. But when we do them first when our attitudes and energy is strongest, how much easier and quicker then are completed and how much more we then enjoy the more enjoyable tasks left to do instead of following the opposite order of completion.

So, if we agree it is far better just to listen to and obey God’s Will first instead of later, then when are we going to just DO THAT! Maybe we should start putting reminders and persuader stickup notes on our bathroom mirror and refrigerator door

During this time of seclusion and isolation being dictated by the coronavirus epidemic spreading across the world and impacting every community, including mine. During this time when waiting and planning and prioritizing every excursion outside the home. During this time when school and employment and social gatherings all are taking second priority to protecting ourselves and our family against being infected or infecting others. During this time, taking time to “wait on the Lord” and spending time with Him is a valuable and wonderful opportunity to get better acquainted with Him. Taking time to fellowship with Him alone but also with family is the opportunity we’ve been given.

With today’s technology, we can still communicate with others and even work from home without exposing ourselves and our families to virus dangers. Likewise, exposing others can also be avoided.

So, how are you managing this current health and economic crisis? Learning to be patient and kind and considerate, I believe, are important benefits God wants us all to rediscover. I believe, He also has so much more to teach and show us if we simply stop and wait and look and listen.

Take some time each day to do that and record what He shows you during this time. I’d like us to share our experiences so we can all learn and discover God’s Will going forward. AMEN? AMEN!

We are to be stewards as we await Christ’s return, using the gifts He has given us for His glory. Wait well as a faithful steward.

“How can there be great faith where there is little faithfulness?” William Gurnall

3/31/20 Stay Compassionate Toward Others 31

Finally, all of you be of one mind, having compassion for one another; love as brothers, be tenderhearted, be courteous, not returning evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary blessing, knowing that you were called to this, that you may inherit a blessing.
1 Peter 3:8–9

COMMENTS: The news is filled with updates and suffering caused by the coronavirus. But I am especially enjoying the stories being reported of people showing compassion ingenuity in ways of helping and providing for needs of others using their limited resources. All too often fear and tragedy or crisis causes us to become self-centered and demanding – looking to others to help us instead of looking for ways to help others.

Despair comes when we doubt God’s provision and faithfulness but contentment and compassion are only possible when we first lay the foundation of trust that God will provide for our needs and more. I believe that foundation can not be completed until we lay our concern at Jesus’ feet and start looking for ways to show compassion and generosity towards others. I also believe God waits for us to take this step of faith toward others before He begins to provide for our needs. I would like you to stop and reflect and see how much and how often God has confirmed this to you experientially too. I am realizing He has done this more times than I realized. How about you?

Well, I also recall those times I actually hindered Him from provide for me because I got in the way by trying to do so myself. Doing that not only hinder Him but hinders our ability to help others too. Afterall, when we help others, we open opportunities for God to multiply what we do, blessing others as well as blessing ourselves too.

Today’s devotion completes another month of studying God’s Word and sharing. I pray God will allow us to continue this journey of discovered another month. It has been a noteworthy month impacting everyone in ways we never thought could happen so quickly. A month ago, who would have thought schools would be closed and businesses too. Who would have thought hospitals would be filled and facing crisis globally like we are now seeing.

But God is still faithful and we can either panic or take this time as opportunity to quiet ourselves, spend time waiting and listening and seeking Him and then following His council and instruction. Be kind. Be compassionate. Be considerate. Be wise. Be obedient. God will bless and bring good if we follow Him. AMEN? AMEN!

Below is the Gideon Bible Reference I have been included in monthly devotions for some time. I decided to continue including this for benefit of new readers and to continue to make it accessible to any and all who read and share this journal. I encourage you to use and share as God directs. If you wish to contact me or access more devotions, below is link to access.

In His Service,

Don McDaniel

Email: dmcdaniel12@zoominternet.net

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Don1951

Blog: https://donsdevotions.wordpress.com/

GIDEON BIBLE REFERENCE SCRIPTURES:

HELP IN TIME OF NEED:

The way of salvation: John 14:6, Acts 16.32, Romans 10:9
Comfort in time of loneliness: Psalm 23, Isaiah 41:10, Hebrews 13:5-6
Comfort in time of sorrow 2 Cor. 1:3-5, Romans 8:26-28
Relief in time of suffering 2 Cor. 12:8-10, Hebrews 12:3-13
Guidance in time of decision James 1:5-6, Proverbs 3:5-6
Protection in time of danger Psalm 91, Psalm 121
Courage in time of fear Hebrews 13:5-6, Ephesians 6:10-18
Peace in time of turmoil Isaiah 26:3-4, Philippians 4:6-7
Rest in time of weariness Matthew 11:28-29, Psalm 23
Strength in time of temptation James 1:12-16, 1Cor. 10:6-13
Warning in time of indifference Gal. 5:19-21, Hebrews 10:26-31
Forgiveness in time of conviction Isaiah 1:18, 1Jn, 1:7-8

SUGGESTED READINGS (HISTORICAL HIGHLIGHTS):

The creation Genesis 1-2
The fall of man Gen 3
The flood of Noah Gen 6-9
The call of Abraham Gen 12:1-9
Deliverance of Israel from Egypt Exodus 11-14
Dedication of the temple 2 Chronicles 5-7
The Babylonian Captivity of Israel 2 Chr. 36
Revival of Israel after captivity Nehemiah 8-9
Promises of the coming Messiah Isaiah 9:2-7, Ps22, Is.53
The Birth of Christ Mtt1:18-2:23, Lk1:26-2:40
The Triumphal Entry Lk19:28-44
The last supper Mk14:2-26
The Garden of Gathsemane 26:36-46
The Betreyal of Jesus 26-47-56
The arrest and trial of Jesus Jn 18:12-19:16
The death of Christ Lk 23:26-56, Jn19:16-42
The resurrection of Christ Lk24, Jn20
The ascension of Christ Acts 1:1-12
The coming of the Holy Spirit Acts2:1-21
The conversion of Paul Acts 9:1-31
The heroes of Faith Hebrews 11

SUGGESTED READINGS (SPIRITUAL STANDARDS)

The 10 commandments Exodus 20:1-17
The sermon on the mount Mtt 5-7
The golden rule Mtt7:12
The greatest commandment Mtt 22:36-40
The righteousness of Faith Romans 3:19-28
The Royal Law James 2:8, Romans 13:8-10
Christ’s New Commandment John 13:34-35
Christian love 1 Cor. 13

DYNAMIC DOCTRINES

God’s greatness and man’s weakness Isaiah 40
The two fold Revelation of God Psalm 19
Man’s universal guilt Rom 1:18-2:16
Atonement Leviticus 16, Romans 5
The new birth John 3
Justification by Faith Eph 2:1-10, Gal 2:16-21
Christ, the Good Shepherd Ps 23, John 10:1-18
Christ’s intercession for His Own Jn 17, Heb 7:25
The High Priestly Work of Christ Heb. 7:25, Heb. 4:14-16
Christ’s Humiliation and Exhaltation Philippians 2:5-11
Resurrection of the Christian Dead 1 Cor. 16, 1Thess. 4:13-18
The second coming of Christ Mtt 24, 2 Thess. 1:7-2:12
The Last Judgment Rev. 20:10-15
The New Heaven and New Earth Rev. 21-22

PRACTICAL PRECEPTS:

Christian Home relationships Eph. 5:22-6:4
A model wife and mother Prov. 31:10-31
Marriage and divorce Mtt 19:3-9, Malachi 2:14-16
The sin of adultery Prov. 6:23-33
The prodigal son Luke 15:11-32
Employer-employee relationships Col 3:22-4:1
Business and prof. principles Ps15, Prov. 3:1-12
Seperation of worldliness 2 Cor. 6:14-7:1, 1 Jn 2:15-17
Decisions of doubtful things Rom.14
Christian fruitfulness Jn15
Heavenly wisdom James 3:14-18
Christian responsibilities Rom. 12-13
Christian stewardship 2 Cor. 8-9
Christian witnessing Mtt 28:18-20, Jm17:18-20
Prevailing prayer Mtt 6:5-15, Philippians 4:6-7
Heavenly priorities Mtt 6:25-33
Brevity of man’s days Ps 90
The causes of war James 4:1-4
The value of the soul Mk. 8:36-37

WHAT THE BIBLE SAYS ABOUT:

ITSELF: 2 Tim. 3:15-16 , Psalm 19:7
GOD: Psalm 99:9, 1 Tim.1:17, Isaiah 45:21-22
MAN: Gen. 1:27, Gen 2:7, Isaiah 43:7
HEAVEN: Rev.21:3-4, 21:27
SIN: Romans 5:12, Isaiah 59:2, Romans 3:23
HELL: 2 Thess 1:8-9, Rev. 20:15
CHRIST –HIS ADVENT Micah 5:2, Mtt.1:21-23, Lk 2:10-11
CHRIST – HIS PERSON John 10:30, 14:6
CHRIST –HIS WORK Lk. 22:19-20, 1 Peter 2:24, Col.1:14, Isaiah 53:5-6
CHRIST-HIS RESURRECTION Lk. 24:36,39, 1 Cor. 15:3-4
FAITH Acts 20:20-21, Heb. 11:6, Eph. 2:8-9
LIFE John 3:3, 1:12-13, 3:36, 2 Cor.5:17

If you wish, you can access my blog at “https://donsdevotions.wordpress.com“. There you will find 550 blog posts I have made plus a link to my devotional journal material archives from 2013 to present.

You may also access my Facebook page and request to be my friend and automatically receive my daily journal publications daily. My Facebook page is: https://www.facebook.com/Dondevotionals/ Many thanks to a pastor and dear brother in Christ in Nepal who set up the above Facebook page to help and encourage and give opportunity for more to explore and use my devotional blog materials.

My hope and prayer are, my blog and devotional materials will become a source of encouragement and tools in ministry for you.

Published by donsdevotions

Don McDaniel - Who am I? Hello everyone and welcome to my devotional journal blog. In order to get acquainted and help you get to know me a bit better before considering following my blog, let me give you some background. I am a 74-year-old male and a retired engineer. I worked for a major supplier of underground mining equipment for nearly 40 years before retiring in 2012. Arlene and I have been happily married since April 1978 and have two grown – married children, one granddaughter and 2 step grandsons. I joined the local United Methodist church at age 12 after accepting Christ as my Savior at age 10 during revival services in that same church in 1961, so I have been a “Born Again” Christian all my teen years and adult life. Christ has helped and guided me all that time. He guided me in choosing my wife and life’s career. My life journey has included regrets and failures, but God has picked me up and protected and spared me from life threatening consequences and dangers more times than I can recall or count. But many I do recall and encourage and motivate me to trust and follow Christ with more passion than ever. Christmas 2011 our daughter gave Arlene and I each a devotional journal. Journals were books with devotion for each day and space to give personal impressions and thoughts related to each devotion. Her desire was to have a lasting legacy she could refer back to and share with her children and grandchildren especially after we are gone. I was touched by that gesture. My parents and Arlene’s were devout Christians, so we would have greatly treasured having that from them, so we felt a sense of urgency to honor her request. I finished my journal first and returned it to our daughter the following Christmas. I’m glad I did it then because Parkinson’s has caused my hand writing to deteriorate since then. The exercise was such a blessing for me. Discipline of keeping journal helped me gain a deeper walk with Christ and greater discipline in honoring my time of prayer and devotion with Him each day. So, I decided to continue the practice but since I could not find a paper journal I liked, I decided to create my own. I had already been receiving electronic devotions by email every day from several sources, my favorite being “Turning Point” from Dr. David Jeremiah. What I decided to do was to include devotional scripture but add my own thoughts and comments only so there would be no issue of copyright infringement. Creating and maintaining journal by computer also addressed my deteriorating handwriting ability. I started an electronic devotion journal January 1, 2013 and have been faithful to that practice every day since. I prayed about method and level of distribution. My initial intent was to only share it with my two children by email, but quickly discovered others in my family, my church, and friends from work (both retired and still working) who knew me and wanted to be included in distribution when they learned what I was doing. I now distribute by email my daily journal at the beginning of each month to over 150 friends and relatives. God has richly blessed and encouraged me. I am concerned with the state of our church and nation, and world for that matter, believing we are living in the end times the prophets of old and Christ have talked about in scripture, so time is short. I desire to be true to my Savior and a witness to help others come to a saving knowledge of Him and equipped to share His Good News too. If my journal can encourage and help others, I believe God wants me to share it. I struggled, for a time at first, because I know many others keep similar journals but only for their own edification and do not want to share them because they are private. However, Christ has stirred my heart to share it as a witness tool. Our son and daughter have a long-time friend who grew up with them who we also befriended nearly 25 years ago. He had a lot of family problems, so would gravitate to our family as a refuge and eventually thought of us as his adopted parents and he as our adopted son. We lost contact with him for some time when he grew up and left home. He traveled around the U.S. and eventually ended up in Ukraine where he resided for next 10 years. He had to return to the US to renew his visa and took opportunity to recommend I begin a blog of my devotions and helped me set it up. He is also an active blogger and has been an email subscriber to my journal for several months, so he has been suggesting I expand my distribution by starting a blog to get broader exposure. After reflection and prayer, I concluded God was in this, so he is helping me set up my blog site. This brief autobiography is my first entry. He returned to Ukraine, then resided there until circumstanced made him decide to move back to US with his young son. This biography was my first post February 29, 2016 . I have published 600 posts from 2016-2023 automatically sent to all my Facebook friends, published on WordPress to be accessible to anyone curious or seeking a deeper walk with God. I decided to take a sebatical to prepare for a new chapter. In 2014 I was diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease which affects patient ability to walk, drive, do physical work, and eventually talk. By mid 2023 it became evident our home for last 42 years (previously owned by my parents for previous 44 years and by my mother's grandparents for 39 years before that) would eventually not meet my needs so we decided to sell it and move into 1st floor of a duplex we also owned that was the town school from 1855-1913. Likewise, the property was requiring more maintenance that I was no longer able to keep up with. 2023 involved selling our home and moving into apartment next door and then in early 2025 an opportunity to move closer to our daughter and granddaughter in Kentucky which was completed in May 2025. For a number of months I have been seeking direction seeking God's direction and timing to return to blogging as my journey with Parkinson's continues to unfold with God's guiding hand in mine. I hope and pray my devotions will continue to be a blessing for you. God certainly has become closer and more real to me since started this blog in 2016. I have spent time with Him studying scripture and praying and listening and writing this journal. I will continue seeking God’s help and will welcome your input to make this site as meaningful as I can and true to God, who is motivating me to create and maintain it. I will also welcome input in order to make format more meaningful going forward. Don & Arlene McDaniel In His Service, Email: mcdanieldonald769@gmail.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Don1951 If you wish, you can access my blog at “https://donsdevotions.wordpress.com“. There you will find 600+ blog posts I have made plus a link to my devotional journal material archives from 2013 to present (https://donsdevotions.wordpress.com/2016/03/02/link-to-dons-devotional-journal-entries-2013/ ) You may also access my Facebook page and request to be my friend and automatically receive my daily journal publications daily. My Facebook page is: https://www.facebook.com/Dondevotionals/ Many thanks to a pastor and dear brother in Christ in Nepal who set up the above Facebook page to help and encourage and give opportunity for more to explore and use my devotional blog materials. View all posts by donsdevotions

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donsdevotions

Christian Devotional Journal – Ministry Resource Source

DEVOTION JOURNAL – MARCH 2020 – DON MCDANIEL

3/17/20 THE VALUE OF PROPHECY 17

Our words help but our lives give a message our words cannot give as effectively. Scripture tells us to live our witness but be ready with words to share the reason for our conduct and hope when asked.

1 Peter 3:15 “¹⁵But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect,”

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3/17/20 THE VALUE OF PROPHECY 17

Our words help but our lives give a message our words cannot give as effectively. Scripture tells us to live our witness but be ready with words to share the reason for our conduct and hope when asked.

1 Peter 3:15 “15 But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect,”

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1 Peter 3:15 “¹⁵But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect,”