September 7, 2020September 8, 2020

DEVOTION JOURNAL – JUNE 2020 – DON MCDANIEL

June 2020:

6/1/20 BOXED IN 1

O our God, will You not judge [our enemies]? 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.
2 Chronicles 20:12

RECOMMENDED READING: HEBREWS 4:16 “¹⁶Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.”

COMMENTS: We are so unworthy and unprepared to approach God’s throne of judgment but Jesus went to the cross and died and rose so we don’t need to. God’s throne then becomes a throne of mercy instead of a throne of judgment. We are still unworthy but His sacrifice bought our redemption so He makes us worthy and prepares us to approach His throne.

Satan thought he had God boxed in. He knew God demanded perfection and by giving man free will meant satan had the opportunity to lead all men deep into sin that God would then have to judge. Satan knew God deeply loved men, so it would grieve and be painful for God to judge people.

What satan hadn’t anticipated was that God would buy man’s redemption Himself. But satan wasn’t done. Since he couldn’t stop Jesus from fulfilling His mission, he decided to stay on course and persuade people to delay or ignore or refuse to accept Christ’s gift of redemption. Thinking later will be better so can enjoy sin awhile longer. Satan also deceives by making sin seem so irresistible, but truth is God has promised to help and give us sufficient ability and strength to resist satan’s snares.

In the old testament is recorded an example of satan using a pagan army force in an attempt to destroy God’s beloved people and nation (Israel). Vastly outnumbered, slaughter seemed inevitable. In such cases—when all human alternatives had been exhausted—the kings would turn to the King of Heaven in prayer. King Jehoshaphat did just that when Jerusalem was surrounded by three enemy armies. You can read his prayer in 2 Chronicles 20:5-12. But his last words are those which we should take to heart: “Nor do we know what to do, but our eyes are upon You.”

When you find yourself boxed in by life, do what the kings did: Pray and ask God for His solution and deliverance.

“When I pray, coincidences happen, and when I don’t, they don’t”. William Temple

6/2/20 Choosing the ancient path to life 2

This is what the Lord says: “Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls.”
Jeremiah 6:16, NIV

COMMENTS: We live in a time with more accessibility to scripture and history than any before. When I was a boy researching to write an assignment, I would have to access an encyclopedia at the library to obtain needed information on the topic assigned. Today a few clicks of a computer mouse accesses far more information.

Well, reading and then writing about a subject does not make a life difference unless we relate and take heart and learn from the wise as well as the foolish choices of those before us.

However, in spite of the accessibility of information, the lack of knowledge and especially lack of understanding for scripture is much worse than in the past. George Santayana said, “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat.

We are, as a society, at a modern crossroad with the choice of turning one way away from God on a historic path that always leads to misery and judgment and death or turning another direction on another historic path that always leads to peace and eternal life and mercy – forgiveness, a path towards God.

Society and modern thinking believes modern humanism is new but it is a rewrapping of the ancient influence satan has been fooling humans with for thousands of years. Scripture and history and contemporary examples from our own families and friend all are evidence of the consequences of one path and benefits and rewards of following the right path.

Ignoring or denying the existence of these two paths and the existence of God and of satan or that both are trying to persuade opposing paths.

The Bible uses the word ancient to describe things that are truly old, that go back to creation and before. Psalm 119:52 refers to Scripture as God’s “ancient laws” (NIV). God is described as “ancient,” a word indicating eternality. Before the mountains were born or the world was made, He is God. In Isaiah, He said, “From ancient days I am he” (43:13, NIV). In Daniel, He is called the “Ancient of Days” (7:9).

Our world offers lots of new paths, but the Bible tells us to stick to the old ones—to the paths and choices outlined by our Creator in His Word. Only there will we find rest for our souls.

“Two roads diverged in a wood, and I—I took the one less traveled by, and that has made all the difference.” Robert Frost

6/3/20 BEING CARRIED BY GOD 3

And in the wilderness where you saw how the Lord your God carried you, as a man carries his son, in all the way that you went until you came to this place. Deuteronomy 1:31

RECOMMENDED SCRIPTURE READING HOSEA 11:1-4 – “When Israel was a child, I loved him,And out of Egypt I called My son.²As they called them,So they went from them;They sacrificed to the Baals,And burned incense to carved images.

³“I taught Ephraim to walk,Taking them by their arms;But they did not know that I healed them.⁴I drew them with gentle cords,With bands of love,And I was to them as those who take the yoke from their neck.I stooped and fed them.”

COMMENTS: Young children lack the experience and wisdom to recognize danger and avoid it. A hot stove or an electrical socket or dangerous cleaning chemicals all are potential sources of illness or death when little hands and curious eyes gain access to them. That is why “childproof caps” and socket covers and other protection guards are designed and manufactured to help parents and guardians allow children to learn and grow while preventing access to danger until they are equipped to discern and manage danger wisely.

As we grow in experience and age and stature, we learn to manage such chemicals and other dangerous tools and sources of power better but truth is we, at any age, lack sufficient wisdom to avoid all dangers on our path. Drugs and alcohol and sexual temptations and lure of money and things and power and … (the list goes on) are dangerous traps satan puts on our path to brings us harm and ultimately separation from God and even death.

We are warned to flee youthful temptations (2 Timothy 2:22-24). James 4:7 goes on to tells us to submit to God and resist the devil. When we do this, satan loses his power over us and will flee from us. We have no power against satan, nor can match his power and cunning strategy or power of persuasion alone . But he is no match for our God and will run when we allow God to indwell and fight our battles. When we seek His help, satan runs. When we ask for God’s help, He comes running to our aid because He knows we are no match for satan and doesn’t expect nor want us to confront Him alone without God’s help and presence. God is only waiting to be asked. For us to call for His help.

Everyone encounters dark times of loss of job or health or loved one or relationship. Everyone faces consequences of poor choices and even consequences causes by poor choices of others.

If you are walking through your own wilderness, ask God to lift you up on His shoulders, to carry you as if on “wings like eagles” (Isaiah 40:31).

“God uses men who are weak and feeble enough to lean on him.” J. Hudson Taylor

6/4/20 Anticipation 4

Therefore, beloved, looking forward to these things, be diligent to be found by Him in peace, without spot and blameless. 2 Peter 3:14

RECOMMENDED SCRIPTURE READING 2 PETER 3:14-18– “¹⁴Therefore, beloved, looking forward to these things, be diligent to be found by Him in peace, without spot and blameless; ¹⁵and consider that the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation—as also our beloved brother Paul, according to the wisdom given to him, has written to you, ¹⁶as also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things, in which are some things hard to understand, which untaught and unstable people twist to their own destruction, as they do also the rest of the Scriptures.¹⁷You therefore, beloved, since you know this beforehand, beware lest you also fall from your own steadfastness, being led away with the error of the wicked; ¹⁸but grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.To Him be the glory both now and forever. Amen..”

COMMENTS: What do you look forward to? What do you dream of? What goals are you working toward, striving for, and planning for?

As I look back, I recall specific accomplishments I looked forward to: Getting a driver’s license, graduating from high school and then college, being on my own with a career and gainful employment, getting married and buying a home, having children, the next promotion, retirement, the list goes on.

Achieving each goal and even interim goals and achievements all were memorable but for most seemed to lose their appeal over time. Taking people and blessings for granted and seeking something newer or different seems to be an all too common failing and weakness with us humans, doesn’t it?

I too felt the pull to desire and work to something new and different, which isn’t bad if channeled and managed by the Holy Spirit. What has become much clearer for me, after a nearly 40 year career as an engineer, after 42 years of marriage, after raising 2 children and sharing family experiences and responsibilities with my wife and life partner, after experiencing many life and work and church problems and opportunities, after burying a sister and parents and many friends and other relatives, after recalling many memories of those and many other experiences; I am realizing what does matter and what is most important.

Also, as I mowed along with others helping care for a local cemetery, reflecting on the grave stones of many we personally knew as well of others our parents and ancestors knew, we further resolve what is most important and matters.

Anticipation is the opposite of surprise. Looking forward to what you know is coming helps heal and strength and encourage. During long – dark – cold winters, anticipation of spring and summer makes winter brighter and more manageable. Preparing for a vacation trip, a wedding, or a reunion during a military deployment or summer vacation for students and teachers encourages hope and perseverance in the midst of struggles and challenges.

What would the world be like without hope or anticipation and hope of a brighter time to look forward too?

With Christ, we have an unimaginable bright future for eternity, but without Him, we only have false hope that will only bring disappointment and misery and death.

We have the wonderful message of hope anticipating Christ’s return and completion of all He has promised. A message of eternal life in a new eternal body and a home more wonderful and beautiful than imaginable with all who receive that message.

So, let us live in anticipation today!

“On every page of the Bible there are words of God that give reason to hope…. In the promises of God I find inspiration and new hope. “Charles L. Allen

6/5/20 Brick by Brick 5

Therefore we do not lose heart…. the inward man is being renewed day by day.
2 Corinthians 4:16

RECOMMENDED SCRIPTURE READING 2 CORINTHIANS 4:13-17– “¹³And since we have the same spirit of faith, according to what is written, “I believed and therefore I spoke,” we also believe and therefore speak, ¹⁴knowing that He who raised up the Lord Jesus will also raise us up with Jesus, and will present us with you. ¹⁵For all things are for your sakes, that grace, having spread through the many, may cause thanksgiving to abound to the glory of God.¹⁶Therefore we do not lose heart. Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day. ¹⁷For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory,.”
COMMENTS: David Gerold said “Life is hard and then you die. They throw dirt in your face. Then the worms eat you. Be grateful it happens in that order.” That sounds horribly depressing and hopeless, but I often wonder how anyone can endure life’s problems and end of life without Christ and why they would. Christ is our only hope and reason for living. He gives us the assurance there is more than David Gerold’s statement. Life is hard and everyone will die, but eternal life in a place Christ is preparing for us and in a body that will not grow old and weak nor die. A place where we will dwell with Him and with loved ones eternally. David Gerold’s quote implies that our efforts on earth are meaningless and will ultimately fail, so why bother? Well, many feel that way, so decide to do what want indulging in all life’s pleasures without regard for consequences.

But scripture, Christ’s own words and example, the example of countless millions through the ages, the example of millions still living today and many families all tell us Christ gives life meaning and gives us opportunity and confidence that our life and work all do matter and do make an et eternal difference. The reason is because Christ died to provide the one and only way to eternal life and redemption.

So, life is still hard but we need not endure life alone. We do die, but death is only a door that opens to eternity. The worms will eat our flesh but we will be long gone living in a brand new and far better body. That is our assurance when we accept Christ’s gift of redemption.

Times when our hard work is damaged or destroyed, we become discouraged at realization our time and labor was wasted or was it? If the fruit of our labor is more that finishing a report or building a house or reaching a goal finishing a task. Then the difficulties of life bring something more lasting. Working together brings trust and friendships and fulfillment of being a part of something bigger than individuals. When we bring our faith in Christ to our work and day, then that impact and influence can and does brighten and open opportunity to share Christ’s redemptive and transforming message with others, who we may never meet nor interact with any other way. When we are together in heaven and discover how God used our humble labors and obedience to lead others to Him, then all will be revealed, and we will bow in awe and worship to Him.

: Looking to Jesus till glory doth shine, moment by moment, O Lord, I am Thine.: Daniel Whittle

6/6/20 Pain Today, Rewards Forever 6

Yes, and all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution. 2 Timothy 3:12

RECOMMENDED SCRIPTURE READING ACTS 5:40-42 – “⁴⁰And they agreed with him, and when they had called for the apostles and beaten them, they commanded that they should not speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go. ⁴¹So they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for His name. ⁴²And daily in the temple, and in every house, they did not cease teaching and preaching Jesus as the Christ..”

COMMENTS:I am amazed as I see more and more news events parallel biblical prophecies. Tolerance is revered over righteousness. Anger and violence is spreading like a Covid 19 virus. People are demonized and the source of evil ignored. Little regard for people gathering for some purposes, risking spread of Covid 19 while gathering for worship condemned due to same concerns. We see sinister efforts motivating sincere protestors to destroy property and businesses owned by innocent black and white businessmen. Why would protestors follow such violence instead of maintaining focus on the issues? Why would they not confront the sources pushing for violence and let their numbers stop them?

So, what is going on and what can we do? What should we do? I believe NO MAN has the answer to all these problems and at best may give Band-Aid approaches. I believe our leaders and news media and people are missing the source of all these problems as well as the source of a real lasting solution.

As much as I see end time prophecies lining up with daily news events, I have also concluded God has defined the timing of Christ’s return and fulfillment of remaining prophecies by the choices we all continue to make. So, let’s prayerfully consider:

“If those days had not been cut short, no one would survive, but for the sake of the elect those days will be shortened.”). Only God knows when Christ’s return will happen but events that need to happen first included man’s Godlessness and amoral and sinful behavior will need to be as bad as it was when the flood happen during Noah’s day. Matthew 24:37 “As it was in the days of Noah, so it will be at the coming of the Son of Man.”

Well, Jeremiah tried and failed. Elijah and Elisha tried and failed. Noah tried and failed. But the failure wasn’t theirs. Their responsibility was only to give warning and show by example the importance of following God is.

So what forces are at work discouraging us and others from embracing God’s Will and Plan? What forces are causing mobs to do mindless violence and destruction? What forces are releasing illness and disease and death in the world and in our own communities? What is right and what is wrong and who should judge and discern one from the other? Who is right and who is wrong? How should we discern who’s message to believe and follow and who’s not to?

This is our mission and goal. Such is far above what I feel I can do, but past experience and scripture and example of others tell me such is not above God’s abilities, and I don’t need to know how the journey plays out, just be willing to take the next step as He leads.

“Persecution is the legacy bequeathed by Christ to His people. “ Thomas Watson

6/7/20 CHRIST – SONLIGHT FOR EVERY HUMAN 7

That was the true Light which gives light to every man coming into the world. John 1:9

RECOMMENDED READING: 1 JOHN 2:8 – “⁸Again, a new commandment I write to you, which thing is true in Him and in you, because the darkness is passing away, and the true light is already shining..”

COMMENTS: Light is essential to live and function and move around. Light enables us to avoid dangers and stay on path. Light enables us to do necessary work and travel efficiently and safely. Light enables us to avoid running into things and receive information. Light also enables enjoying the beauty of God’s creation, the results of our labors, and so much more.

The ability to see makes light usable too. Lights enables seeing people to see but light is useless to blind people since they cannot use the light and may not even know when they are in light and when in darkness unless a source of heat matches with source of light. That is true with sun on a sunny warm day. Feeling the warmth of the sun matches having the bright sun shining in the sky.

Matthew and Mark and Luke are called the synoptic Gospels since they add to and support each other’s accounts of Jesus’ life on earth focusing mostly on His third and last year of ministry. John’s Gospel is different in that it’s focus is mostly in the theme of Jesus’ teaching. An example is John 8:12, 9:4 – “I am the light of the world” and John 1:9 – “the true Light which gives light to every man.”

Physical light is necessary to enjoy and sustain life. But many function amazingly well while being completely blind. They have learned to adapt and substitute other senses to adjust for lack of ability to see light.

Many seem to function fine without Christ using right principles but they lack being complete by seeing Christ’s light themselves.

There is no substitute for being able to see and even the most successful blind people would give up much to be able to see again. Those that are able to regain their sight marvel at the colors and beauty of their surroundings – things others don’t even notice because they have become accustomed to those surroundings. How many times has a beautiful sunrise or sunset or a star covered night sky or a clear full moon or beautiful flowers or the face of a loved one or …. The list is infinite, isn’t it?

Well, God’s love and Christ’s light shining in the world is even more beautiful and should not be taken for granted either.

Are you one of the “whoever” who has believed in Him? Embrace the light of Christ in your life.

“It is no advantage to be near.” Augustine

6/8/20 NO GOOD CHOICE BUT JESUS 8

O 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. 2 Chronicles 20:12

RECOMMENDED READING: JOHN 6:1-14 “. After these things Jesus went over the Sea of Galilee, which is the Sea of Tiberias. ²Then a great multitude followed Him, because they saw His signs which He performed on those who were diseased. ³And Jesus went up on the mountain, and there He sat with His disciples.⁴Now the Passover, a feast of the Jews, was near. ⁵Then Jesus lifted up His eyes, and seeing a great multitude coming toward Him, He said to Philip, “Where shall we buy bread, that these may eat?” ⁶But this He said to test him, for He Himself knew what He would do.⁷Philip answered Him, “Two hundred denarii worth of bread is not sufficient for them, that every one of them may have a little.”⁸One of His disciples, Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, said to Him, ⁹“There is a lad here who has five barley loaves and two small fish, but what are they among so many?”¹⁰Then Jesus said, “Make the people sit down.” Now there was much grass in the place. So the men sat down, in number about five thousand. ¹¹And Jesus took the loaves, and when He had given thanks He distributed them to the disciples, and the disciples to those sitting down; and likewise of the fish, as much as they wanted. ¹²So when they were filled, He said to His disciples, “Gather up the fragments that remain, so that nothing is lost.” ¹³Therefore they gathered them up, and filled twelve baskets with the fragments of the five barley loaves which were left over by those who had eaten. ¹⁴Then those men, when they had seen the sign that Jesus did, said, “This is truly the Prophet who is to come into the world.”

COMMENTS: We are all, by nature, resistant to read directions before assembling equipment or structures and then become frustrated when our ability isn’t enough. We waste valuable time and risk damage when we do that. Abraham Lincoln said “Give me six hours to chop down a tree and I will spend the first four hours sharpening the axe.”

Life comes with instructions too, the Bible. We go along thinking all is good and we are going down a good path paying little attention to God when a hardship or tragedy stops us in our tracks. Then we are unprepared and lack practice and skills in prayer, so we stumbled by trial and error trying to solve or relieve or fix the obstacle before us.

Only when we run out of options and ideas to try, do so many of us finally give up and seek God’s help in prayer.

Jehoshaphat, king of Judah, was out of answers. A vast army had gathered against Jerusalem and Jehoshaphat realized he had “no power against this great multitude.” A king or commander knows when the odds are for him or against him, when man’s military (or other) answers are adequate and when they aren’t. Yes, we should pray and seek the Lord in either case. But in some cases, the better part of wisdom is to pray, “This is way beyond me. I have no idea what to do, Lord, but my eyes are on You!” The apostle Peter made such a confession once: “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life” (John 6:68).

Don’t be afraid to say, “Lord, I have no idea.” God knows what to do and is waiting for you to ask Him.

Sometimes the most powerful prayers are the most simple prayers. Lysa TerKeurst

6/9/20 DRIVEN INTO SOVERIGN ARMS 9

To console those who mourn in Zion, to give them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning. Isaiah 61:3
RECOMMENDED READING: ISAIAH 61:1-3 ““The Spirit of the Lord God is upon Me,Because the Lord has anointed Me To preach good tidings to the poor;He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted,To proclaim liberty to the captives,And the opening of the prison to those who are bound;²To proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord,And the day of vengeance of our God;To comfort all who mourn,³To console those who mourn in Zion,To give them beauty for ashes,The oil of joy for mourning,The garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness;That they may be called trees of righteousness,The planting of the Lord, that He may be glorified.”

COMMENTS: God’s Plan and Will is such a mystery to us much of not most of the time. His timing also seems late to us until we look back into history and see His Perfect His plan and timing are.

Today, I was reading about a missionary, Kay Arthur, serving in Mexico who had to leave and return home because of heart infection she contracted there. She felt failure and disappointment and cried out to God seeking healing or …???

Well, God doesn’t have to tell us why and often doesn’t right away but always asks us to trust Him and wait on Him.. Kay endured pain and depression for some time after but out of that time came valuable writing of bible studies that would reach 52 countries – far more than her dreams or work in Mexico alone could have done.

With God, nothing we do for Him is wasted nor is unfruitful. Even our sinful choices and consequences, as painful and hurtful as later seem, become a path to fulfilling God’s Plan and eternal God if we surrender them to Him. We have more than enough examples from scripture and history to convince us that He is faithful and true and will continue to be so too.

Truth is, 100 years from now and eternity from now, that is what really matters and will be most important to us and to all His plan impacts and will impact. AMEN? AMEN!

Sometimes we feel our world is falling apart, but the lessons learned through the pain often bring hidden blessings. The Lord promises in Isaiah 61 to exchange our mourning with His oil of joy and to give a garment of praise to those who are weighed down in spirit. Cast your burdens on the Lord and let Him become the strength of your heart. Let trouble drive you into His sovereign arms.

“The devil sometimes goes too far. He drives us straight into the Lord’s arms.” Ruth Bell Graham

6/10/20 I FINALLY UNDERSTAND 10

It is good for me that I have been afflicted, that I may learn Your statutes.
Psalm 119:71

Scripture: JOB 42:1-6 “Then Job answered the Lord and said:²“I know that You can do everything,And that no purpose of Yours can be withheld from You.³You asked, ‘Who is this who hides counsel without knowledge?’Therefore I have uttered what I did not understand,Things too wonderful for me, which I did not know.⁴Listen, please, and let me speak;You said, ‘I will question you, and you shall answer Me.’⁵“I have heard of You by the hearing of the ear,But now my eye sees You.⁶Therefore I abhor myself,And repent in dust and ashes.”

COMMENTS: Why does God allow trials, especially like those of the magnitude that Job endured? Why do they seem to bombard some people more than other? Why do some seem to get away with sinful and foolish behavior while others get caught on the first offense?

Well, I don’t know either but Job unwraps God’s purposes and goals. Job also reveals to us that even those close to God and unusually obedient become overwhelmed and discouraged, especially when can’t see the purpose nor an end in sight for suffering. Job also shows us God is faithful and does have a greater and wonderful purpose for any suffering that He allows.

So much of personal suffering is due to foolish choices but much is also due to the foolish choices of other. Sin has a sinister way of spreading and inflicting harm on bystanders and those close to offender. Job also reveals to us that we should try to out-think or try to figure out God’s purposes, but instead, surrender and wait for Him to reveal those purposes. It is more likely we will be completely wrong since His ways are so far above ours and His knowledge and wisdom and understanding is so far above and beyond ours. Why would we ever hope to figure Him out? Well, we can’t but He also knows how important it is we trust and obey Him first before we understand. Our understanding will come later.

God allows disruptive moments in our life that we almost always question or resist because they are painful, unanticipated, misunderstood, and often not optional. Yet in hindsight, they are always embraced for the good or blessing which results. Job is the classic Old Testament example of a life being disrupted, while Paul’s thorn in the flesh (2 Corinthians 12:7-10) is an obvious New Testament example.

If God has allowed a disruptive moment in your life, walk through it by faith rather than by sight (2 Corinthians 5:7)—and be prepared to say, “Now I understand.”

“The circumstances we ask God to change are often the circumstances God is using to change us.”

Mark Batterson

6/11/20 DARK NIGHTS 11

You have tested my heart; You have visited me in the night; You have tried me and have found nothing; I have purposed that my mouth shall not transgress. Psalm 17:3

RECOMMENDED SCRIPTURE READING: PSALM 6:6-10 “I am weary with my groaning; All night I make my bed swim; I drench my couch with my tears.⁷My eye wastes away because of grief;It grows old because of all my enemies.⁸Depart from me, all you workers of iniquity;For the Lord has heard the voice of my weeping.⁹The Lord has heard my supplication;The Lord will receive my prayer.¹⁰Let all my enemies be ashamed and greatly troubled; Let them turn back and be ashamed suddenly.”

COMMENTS: Stop and reflect a few minutes on just how weak and vulnerable we are and how faithfully God provides and protects us. Absolute zero is -450 degrees F but God provides either shelter or maintains outside temperature at +70F. If +40F above 70F or -40F below 70F, then our bodies need protection in order to sustain life. Our comfort range is closer to +55F to +75F. Granted, personal tolerance and age and health impact our personal comfort range, but having a house or shelter that is heated or cooled enable us to survive and be comfortable during weather and environment extremes.

Yet, compared with the -450F minimum possible and +800F + experienced on other planets. God has provided the earth for us equipped with protection against temperature extremes, sufficient air and water and food and light and to sustain life. He has also provided sufficient intelligence and skills to build or find shelter in locations where additional protection is needed.

That said, be aware that God has faithfully without pause maintained and sustained the earth in a way so we need not fear.

But God does allow us to see and feel limited exposure to dangers so we are reminded of just how much we depend on and need Him in our lives.

Times when you and I feel threats bearing down on us and escape or strength to overcome or drive off those threats seem to elude us, it is then we feel the most vulnerable and in need of someone’s help who is stronger than us. THERE IS NO ONE STRONGER OR BETTER ABLE AND EQUIPPED TO SUCCESSFULLY EITHER DRIVE BACK THOSE THREATS OR PROVIDE AN ESCAPE FOR US. AMEN!!

We have so much to be grateful for and so much to praise and worship Him for, not just for what He has done and continues to do, but also for who He is.

If you are in the midst of your own dark night, use the time wisely. If there are tears, let them water the words you pour out to God, remembering that joy comes in the morning.

“Faith is a plant that can grow in the shade, a grace that can find the way to heaven in a dark night.”

William Gurnall

6/12/20 SPIRITUAL RESTORATION IN DARKNESS 12

When I remember You on my bed, I meditate on You in the night watches. Psalm 63:6

^{RECOMMENDED SCRIPTURE READING PSALM 139-11-12}¹¹If I say, “Surely the darkness shall fall on me,”Even the night shall be light about me;¹²Indeed, the darkness shall not hide from You,But the night shines as the day;The darkness and the light are both alike to You.”

COMMENTS: Life experiences often are shared and viewed in terms of seasons or in terms of day time vs. night. Winter is a necessary time of rest and healing in preparation of springtime growth, but requires shelter and protective clothing from bitter cold and hostile temperature and winds. Some struggle walking and driving through deep snow falls while others remove snow and obstacles in their path before traveling. Preparation is a necessary part of managing success.

Wasting valuable time is a common error we all fall prey to at times. Wasting idle times or times of calm instead of using those times to prepare for crisis and challenges and battles of life. Granted, we all know and have experienced temptations and disappointments and even loss and tragedy that came unannounced and unexpected. How can we prepare for such even if we know they are coming?

Well, some things we come slowly like aging of a loved one or planning future stages of life like education or career training or retirement or …. Other changes come suddenly like an illness or accident causing long expensive recovery or even death.

God provides the essential preparation and council with a proven track record from generations of followers before us. The wise council of scripture and directly from the Holy Spirit reinforced by wise council of Christians in your life. Council of those in the church, including pastor and elders and piers in our church are all vital. Only God knows the future – what is coming and preparation needed to manage and successfully survive or even thrive through it.

Consider how God Prepared Job for his dark time of tragedy and trial without full disclosure to Job of the outcome or purpose. Consider why God allowed David to be a fugitive fleeing Saul’s jealous anger for many years without knowing how long and why. Do you have one or more experiences similar in duration?

Jesus has assured us that He is always with us and will not permit suffering or temptation or trials to be more that or longer than we can bear because He is always with us and His Holy Spirit abides in and with us. Consider how He provides Christian friends and support and brings a means of escape if we look for it.

Well, truth is that we often bear more than need to because:

But truth is that Christian maturity and growth should be measured instead on how completely and consistently we seek out and follow/obey Him and wait on and wait for Him.

Ask God to walk with you through the stages of your dark night. Remember who He is and what He has done for you.

“The greater your knowledge of the goodness and grace of God on your life, the more likely you are to praise Him in the storm.” Matt Chandler

6/13/20 FOLLOWING THE LIGHT 13

Then Jesus spoke to them again, saying, “I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life.” John 8:12

COMMENTS: Light is a wonderful blessing for sighted people especially because dangers and destinations and warning signs and direction signs and so many other activities and work and relationships are so much easier and efficiently completed by ability to see. But even those who cannot see benefit indirectly too. God’s wisdom at providing ability to see with light during waking hours and removing light to aid sleep in night hours all are evidence of God’s Grace and Love for us. God has designed us to be in family relationships – blood family – church family – work family – … Stop and think about how efficiently relationships in the work place are. A large factory works together and is able to quickly build “prefab houses, cars, appliances, tools, … The list is endless. A large beautiful home can be built in a distant factory in a few days and assembled on sight in one day or take nearly a year to build by hand. An old car can be beautifully restored by hand taking many months or years or built from scratch in an assembly line by the millions each year.

No, God wants us to work together to do good and to do His Will. When we do, we soon realize together with Him we can do work that has eternal lasting effects on others. Satan would have us fight and isolate ourselves and work alone. I never ceased to be amazed at how well the Amish Community works together in building projects. Young boys are brought to work sights watching and learning and working getting materials and cleaning up – doing what they can to contribute. The slowly but consistently learn skills and get more involved and become master builders. The older workers slowing relinquish physical building to supervising and coordinating work projects and acquiring materials as needed. Workers work and play and fellowship together becoming friends but even more – family. In fact, most crews are made up of immediate family but not exclusively.

Work relationships become lasting relationships and even closer than family because many more hours and conversations are shared at work than at home.

God refers to Himself as “I AM” at the Burning Bush experience of Moses. Jesus gives us seven “I AM” statement recorded in John’s Gospel:

John 6:35 “I am the bread of life.”
John 8:12 “I am the light of the world”
John 10:7,9 “I am the door”
John 10:11,14 “I am the Good Shepherd”
John 11:25 “I am the resurrection.”
John 14:6 “I am the way, the truth, and life.”
John 15:1 “I am the true vine.”

Each acknowledges Jesus is God but also that He is the God Who is directly involved in providing for the needs of His creation. He is the God Who Loves and Cares for His creation. He is also the God who gives live and Truth. He is the God who does what He promises.

Jesus is the “LIGHT OF THE WORLD” enabling you and me to see and avoid dangers and stay on the path to eternal life. Just as sunlight enables us to work and travel safely and effectively, so does the Sonlight enable us to discern lies from truth and follow the truth. But we all still has opportunity to choose light or darkness, truth or lies, sin or Good. Seems like a “no brainer” but not so obvious during times of temptation because satan is an experienced master of lies and deception. Satan can’t stop God but he can hurt God by hurting us because he knows how much God loves us.

Matthew Henry

6/14/20 THREE PLACES TO LOOK 14

Before I was afflicted I went astray, but now I keep Your word. Psalm 119:67

RECOMMENDED SCRIPTURE READING: EPHESIANS 3:17-19 “”¹⁷that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; that you, being rooted and grounded in love, ¹⁸may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the width and length and depth and height— ¹⁹to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge; that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.”

COMMENTS: How do you manage crisis and permanent loss? Well, dealing with a short term crisis like a hospital stay or surgery of yourself or loved one, who fully recovers, is one thing. A disruption in schedule or plans, if limited in duration, gives hope and ability to plan accordingly so life can return to normal. But what if a loved one dies or is permanently handicapped. Result is a permanent change in lifestyle and in daily routine. Loss of a job or source of income can be very traumatic especially when hopes of finding an equal paying job are remote.

Well, the world looks at and judges how Christians manage crisis and tragedy and loss. Do they become angry and bitter and take it out on the guilty in vengeance or take it out on innocent bystanders? Do they reflect the example Christ lived or are they hypocritical? Honestly, all too many who call themselves Christian are genuine. Not all Christians act and conduct themselves like Christ did. But there are also many that do. The difference is to admit sin, repent of it, and submit to the Holy Spirit’s transforming work and become obedient to God’s Will. Those who fail to repent and convince themselves a better way Is to fix themselves can pretend for a while and determine to do better, but scripture reminds us by example and by instruction that such approaches will always fail because we are no match for satan’s deceptions and schemes. We are too weak and inexperienced. BUT SATAN IS NO MATCH FOR GOD IN STRENGTH OR IN FORSIGHT OR IN WISDOM. God allows free will to but not without consequence. He is merciful but will limit or stop and judge when resulting harm become to widespread. Christ even tells us the time of His return will be determined by satan’s evil deeds becoming so widespread that man is going to exterminate himself.

Conversely, every generation has been and continues to be full of faithful Christians – God followers who were excellent examples showing the positive difference and impact Christ makes in the life of a sincere follower. The hope and peace they face suffering and tragedy and hardship and even death is profound and a mystery to the world. What do they have that the world lacks?
1. The confident hope of a heavenly home with loved ones, without satan’s influence, with Christ, in a new perfect body for eternity/

2. The Holy Spirit abiding with and guiding influence.

3. GOD’S FORGIVENESS AND OPPORTUNITY FOR A FRESH START

4. THE SUPPORT AND ENCOURAGEMENT OF A GENUINE CHURCH FAMILY

5. THE WISDOM AND COUNCIL OF ETERNITY PAST THROUGH SCRIPTURE, EXAMPLES OF FAMILY ANCESTORS, CHURCH FAMILY ANCESTORS, AND BIBLICAL ANCESTORS.

7. A “PURPOSE FOR LIVING” GOD PROVIDES TO THOSE WHO RECEIVE HIS FORGIVENESS AND BEGIN FOLLOW ING – OBEYING HIM.

God doesn’t intend for temptations and hardship and suffering, whether self-inflicted by our own sin and poor choices, or imposed on us by the poor choices of others; to weaken us. He intends for them to draw us closer and more dependent and more reliant on Him. To draw us into a more intimate and deeper relationship with Him so we are more open and willing to surrender to and follow His council and Will.

When we seek help and strength, we have 3 choices. We can look internally for direction, outwardly for direction in the world, or upwardly to God. Looking inwardly relying on our own experience and will and desires, we may gain benefit but all too often only repeat past mistakes and sins. Likewise, when we look outwardly, we are relying on the wisdom or weaknesses of others. To do so means it is important to seek out and discern and follow those who example wise and successful choices and results. But the very best and consistent place to go for wise and sound council is the Bible and to the Holy Spirit directly in prayer and study. To wait on Him for not only wise council but wise timing. Reflect on how much better life would be if we would always look upward when seeking a mate, a profession, a school, even our friends, … The list is endless. But, oh, how many regrets do we endure when we make these choices using only our thoughts and emotions and desires to guide us. Insanity has been defined as doing the same thing, making the same choices over and over again while expecting different or better results.

So, when we are facing major choices or when hardship comes, or when we need help, where should we go? God where good council and sound help is sure. God where past performance is sure and future performance is also sure. LOOK UPWARD INSTEAD OF INWARD. LOOK TO FRIENDS AND FAMILY WHO LOOK TO GOD’S WORD AND UPWARD FOR COUNCIL. LOOK UPWARD YOURSELF AND WAIT TIL THAT COUNCIL COMES.

“Temptation provokes me to look upward to God.” John Bunyan

FRIEND POWER 15

Though one may be overpowered by another, two can withstand him. And a threefold cord is not quickly broken. Ecclesiastes 4:12

6/17/20 HOW LONG? 17

How long, O Lord? Will You forget me forever? How long will You hide Your face from me?
Psalm 13:1

RECOMMENDED READING: DANIEL 10:1-11:1 ” In the third year of Cyrus king of Persia a message was revealed to Daniel, whose name was called Belteshazzar. The message was true, but the appointed time was long; and he understood the message, and had understanding of the vision. ²In those days I, Daniel, was mourning three full weeks. ³I ate no pleasant food, no meat or wine came into my mouth, nor did I anoint myself at all, till three whole weeks were fulfilled.⁴Now on the twenty-fourth day of the first month, as I was by the side of the great river, that is, the Tigris, ⁵I lifted my eyes and looked, and behold, a certain man clothed in linen, whose waist was girded with gold of Uphaz! ⁶His body was like beryl, his face like the appearance of lightning, his eyes like torches of fire, his arms and feet like burnished bronze in color, and the sound of his words like the voice of a multitude.⁷And I, Daniel, alone saw the vision, for the men who were with me did not see the vision; but a great terror fell upon them, so that they fled to hide themselves. ⁸Therefore I was left alone when I saw this great vision, and no strength remained in me; for my vigor was turned to frailty in me, and I retained no strength. ⁹Yet I heard the sound of his words; and while I heard the sound of his words I was in a deep sleep on my face, with my face to the ground.¹⁰Suddenly, a hand touched me, which made me tremble on my knees and on the palms of my hands.¹¹And he said to me, “O Daniel, man greatly beloved, understand the words that I speak to you, and stand upright, for I have now been sent to you.” While he was speaking this word to me, I stood trembling.

¹²Then he said to me, “Do not fear, Daniel, for from the first day that you set your heart to understand, and to humble yourself before your God, your words were heard; and I have come because of your words. ¹³But the prince of the kingdom of Persia withstood me twenty-one days; and behold, Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me, for I had been left alone there with the kings of Persia. ¹⁴Now I have come to make you understand what will happen to your people in the latter days, for the vision refers to many days yet to come.”

¹⁵When he had spoken such words to me, I turned my face toward the ground and became speechless. ¹⁶And suddenly, one having the likeness of the sons of men touched my lips; then I opened my mouth and spoke, saying to him who stood before me, “My lord, because of the vision my sorrows have overwhelmed me, and I have retained no strength. ¹⁷For how can this servant of my lord talk with you, my lord? As for me, no strength remains in me now, nor is any breath left in me.”

¹⁸Then again, the one having the likeness of a man touched me and strengthened me. ¹⁹And he said, “O man greatly beloved, fear not! Peace be to you; be strong, yes, be strong!”

So when he spoke to me I was strengthened, and said, “Let my lord speak, for you have strengthened me.”

²⁰Then he said, “Do you know why I have come to you? And now I must return to fight with the prince of Persia; and when I have gone forth, indeed the prince of Greece will come.²¹But I will tell you what is noted in the Scripture of Truth. (No one upholds me against these, except Michael your prince.

11 “Also in the first year of Darius the Mede, I, even I, stood up to confirm and strengthen him.).”

COMMENTS: We live in a time when expectation is instant response. We can heat our food instantly and communicate with anyone with a cell phone anyplace in the world, but are still places cell phone or internet access is obstructed or blocked. We become impatient or anxious when access is lost even for a brief period.

Such is a common human ailment. Even Daniel felt such anxiety because His dependence and communication with God had become so close and continuous that a break in that relationship caused him distress. Today’s scripture reflects that anxiety during a time when Daniel’s prayers seemed to go unheard because they lacked a response from God to him. He didn’t know why but trusted God enough to go on praying until God’s response came. AND COME IT DID! THE ANGEL FINALLY CAME AND VISITED DANIEL PERSONALLY WITH BOTH AN ANSWER AND A PERSONAL ANGELIC VISIT.

I am amazed at how God knows us and tailors His Will and timing to accommodate our unique and personal strengths and weaknesses and needs. I am also amazed how willing we are to embrace and seek human constant communication globally with strangers or distant casual friends while we have a ready and continual connection and access to the perfect – good – creator of the universe who seeks a continual communication and relationship with every one of us.

So, why is it so hard and why are we so unwilling to seek and develop that relationship? It isn’t God willing but us! Why? Well, I think most of the blame and responsibility points to satan and his demons who work day and night to keep such relationships from happening. Satan knows when we are near God and in relationship with God, we are less vulnerable to His temptations and influence.

Knowing who our enemy is and who is worthy of our trust and focus is vital for us as well as any positive influence and eternal impact God has for us and satan has the mind set to stop or prevent.

If you are waiting on God, know there is a reason for His (seeming) delay. What seems like a delay on earth is a sign of a purpose or reason in heaven?

“Waiting for God is not laziness. Waiting for God is not going to sleep. Waiting for God is not the abandonment of effort. Waiting for God means, first, activity under command; second, readiness for any new command that may come; third, the ability to do nothing until the command is given.”

G. Campbell Morgan

6/18/20 THERAPEUTIC PRAISE 18

Joshua fell on his face to the earth and worshiped, and said to Him, “What does my Lord say to His servant?” Joshua 5:14

Recommended Reading: JOSHUA 5:13-15 ““¹³And it came to pass, when Joshua was by Jericho, that he lifted his eyes and looked, and behold, a Man stood opposite him with His sword drawn in His hand. And Joshua went to Him and said to Him, “Are You for us or for our adversaries?”¹⁴So He said, “No, but as Commander of the army of the Lord I have now come.”And Joshua fell on his face to the earth and worshiped, and said to Him, “What does my Lord say to His servant?”¹⁵Then the Commander of the Lord’s army said to Joshua, “Take your sandal off your foot, for the place where you stand is holy.” And Joshua did so…”

COMMENTS: Moses had his meeting face to God first at the burning bush. Note the God instructed Moses to remove his sandals and treat the place he was standing as “Holy Ground”. It was Holy because God abided there. Notice today’s scripture gives the same instruction to Joshua. That convinces me the visitor identifying Himself as the Commander of the Lord’s Army. The very fact that He instructed Joshua to remove his sandals and treat the grown as Holy tells me the visitor was none other than Jesus Himself. Agree?

Well, this visit was important for God and for Israel. The next even would be marching around the walls of Jericho and witnessing God bringing down the massive walls of Jericho. They had already witnesses the river Jordan drying up to allow them to cross into the promised land. Joshua was Israel’s new leader. Moses was gone, so Joshua’s faithfulness and leadership skills and people’s willingness to follow Joshua’s lead was about to be tested. God knew Joshua needed this visit and He knew the people did too.

If Moses and Joshua treated the place they fellowshipped with God as Holy, should we too. The place where we worship and praise and fellowship with God should be sacred to us too? It was to our ancestors. They would put on their “Sunday best” when going to church as a way of honoring God and treating the church as a “sacred place”.

Well, no human can grasp what this means or what God intends but we can see God wanted to prepare His people and Joshua for what was to come and to develop a relationship with them that would grow and sustain them. God had provided manna until they entered the promised land. Now their provision would require a new and greater level of obedience and their faith would be tested and developed much further.

Do we need to “dress up” to go to church or is casual dress ok? Do you remember the debate when was intense in the ‘60s and ‘70’s? At that time a common error was to judge and reject those who weren’t properly dressed when attending church. You see, following God’s instruction without God’s abiding spirit in them is hypocritical and empty and even sin. Even acts of kindness without God’s abiding spirit and inspiration is empty. But the imperfect acts of obedience of those whose God’s spirit abides without is a powerful tool for God and has eternal positive impact on the family and community and nation and world. Take a moment and reflect on some examples.

When we look at the encounters with God like today’s scripture, we discover the Holy Place is not the specific location but the attitude of the heart. The attitude of reverence and awe for God and praise and worship. Removing one’s sandals showed respect when entering a home and would leave the “dirt of travels” outside, so this gesture was also mean leaving the world’s evil our sinful wills behind so we can see and hear and worship God more freely and with greater obedience. Dressing up or serves to help us prepare and place greater priority and importance to preparing for worship and preparing us to meet our God too.

Is our meeting time and place to meet God each day any less important or significant than Moses at the “Burning Bush” or on Mt. Sinai or for Joshua before Jericho? I submit to you that God treats each meeting with you and I just as significantly too. When we enter worship unprepared, we miss the blessing God has for us and He misses enjoying the fellowship with us He longs for too.

He has so much to tell and show and give us, but we risk missing out due to our own self obsession and indifference and unpreparedness. We have so much to gain and learn and so much insight to gain when we come open minded and open hearted seeking time with Him. Take another moment to discover impact of those encounters on great followers of old like Joseph and Daniel and Moses and Joshua and Mary and Peter and Paul and … the list goes on and on. Take another moment and reflect on any times you have experienced such impact and insights and inspiration too. Think of those whose life examples reflect such inspiration too.

There is so much more we need to learn and receive from Him, no matter if 10 or 110. We all may be at different points on our journey of faith, but we all are light-years from our destination of being “Christ-like”. We all are a “work in process” with unfulfilled dreams God has and longs to guide you and me to fulfill. So let’s prepare and seek Him by taking some time to do so. AMEN? AMEN!

These are difficult times, and people around the world are facing extraordinary levels of stress. Many need professional help, and multitudes need a reason to be hopeful.

Try praise. One of the greatest antidotes to mental stress is worship with thanksgiving. When we come before the Lord, recognize His blessings, bathe our souls in His glory, claim His promises, and sing His praises—well, it’s highly therapeutic to our souls. We don’t worship Him just for what we get out of it, of course. That would be counterproductive. Worship is all about Him, not us. But how good of God to bless us, as we bless Him.

Joshua was worried before leading Israel into battle. But he fell on his face, worshiped, listened to God’s instructions, and rose to conquer. We can do the same.

“Worship: The spontaneous expression of the heart to the glory of God.” Anonymous

6/19/20 SUMMER SONLIGHT – THE LIGHT OF HIS SMILE 19

Now I am no longer in the world, but these are in the world, and I come to You. Holy Father, keep through Your name those whom You have given Me, that they may be one as We are. John 17:11

Scripture: I JOHN 1:5-7 “⁵This is the message which we have heard from Him and declare to you, that God is light and in Him is no darkness at all. ⁶If we say that we have fellowship with Him, and walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth. ⁷But if we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin.”

COMMENTS: There is a glow that is evident on the face of a new believer or a new mother. That glow is hard to maintain or display because life’s discouragements are waiting for opportunity to hinder or discourage or distract.

So how do we battle satan’s efforts and demonstrate that glow as well as conduct available to every believer all the time?

Our success in living the Christian life is dependent on Christ but also on our willingness to focus on His and obey His council and instruction and His Commands. Jesus is identified as the “Light of the World”. The world is full of and overwhelmed with darkness, but God’s light is everywhere and so available to any and all who would simply look up and notice that Light and praise Him for that light. The light that exposes sin and shows the right path to go. The light that shows God’s mercy and forgiveness as well as God’s commands and instruction going forward.

“If the sun of God’s countenance shine upon me, I may well be content to be wet with some rain of affliction.” Joseph Hall

6/20/20 Divine Delays 20

Then it came to pass, when Pharaoh had let the people go, that God did not lead them by way of the land of the Philistines, although that was near; for God said, “Lest perhaps the people change their minds when they see war, and return to Egypt.” Exodus 13:17

RECOMMENDED READING: ACTS 10:6-10 “³⁶Now when they had gone through Phrygia and the region of Galatia, they were forbidden by the Holy Spirit to preach the word in Asia. ⁷After they had come to Mysia, they tried to go into Bithynia, but the Spirit did not permit them. ⁸So passing by Mysia, they came down to Troas. ⁹And a vision appeared to Paul in the night. A man of Macedonia stood and pleaded with him, saying, “Come over to Macedonia and help us.” ¹⁰Now after he had seen the vision, immediately we sought to go to Macedonia, concluding that the Lord had called us to preach the gospel to them.”

COMMENTS: Have you ever encountered a detour while traveling or a detour in planned work? A neighbor or family member needed some help or a tool or some guidance or council, causing a disruption or delay in completing in process tasks or work. Granted, some tasks come with a commitment or obligation or time constraint that requires asking disruption to be put on hold until a task is completed and then will get our focus. Some such tasks include spending time with family and children.

If work consistently gets priority over family, that becomes unhealthy for them and us, usually later bringing regrets for what should have been if we had permitted delay or distraction to have needed priority of our time.

God brings distractions into our lives for a greater purpose. That purpose is to teach us obedience and sharper skills in hearing and responding to His voice and nudging. Skills in trusting Him to redeem time so will still complete important tasks after completing the distraction He has called and put in front of us to complete first.

A son or daughter needs help with their homework or a few minutes of your time to spend with them in evening when you were planning on mowing the lawn or sweeping the floors or just wanting to sit down and relax and read the newspaper or watch a favorite evening program.

When we sacrifice our plans and wants for Him, He is always faithful in His own way to us. Faithful to redeem time sacrificed and faithful to bring eternal reward and blessing. Take a few minutes and reflect on such times. Times you missed such opportunity and times you did obey and blessing that followed.

God’s grace brings do overs and repeated such opportunities but those opportunities will become less frequent if we say no to them too many times. God will honor even our poor choices but there will be regrets and consequences for disobedience like there will be blessings for obedience.

Father’s day was very special for me this year. My son-in-law gave me a special card of gratitude for taking time to council and help him during a recent difficult time. Our daughter too did the same. Then our son called. He lives some distance away but his call too was so memorable and special to me.

A parent carries burdens for their children especially when they encounter life problems and crisis. We would rather they be spared but truth is life’s problems are necessary to exercise and strengthen spiritual muscles. Muscles of faith and obedience. Muscles of fellowship and love for Christ.

In the autumn of my life, I am becoming more keenly aware of brevity of life but also how precious family is and time with them is. How precious it is to be the life example and be accessible to them. How precious such a close relationship and how important it is to have a genuine relationship with Christ and show by example that relationship with any and all encounter each day.

This time of Covid 19 isolation and disruptions have devastated businesses with loss of business and families with loss of income, but the importance of families working together has been a wonderful outcome. When families rediscover how God provides just enough and builds our faith in Him and in each other is also a wonderful thing. He never seems to provide early, which we prefer, but just in time, way late in our minds. He provides what we need, but withholds everything we want.

Well, all too often I discover my wants are not healthy nor are beneficial or lasting. Better to be denied satisfying my wants than to acquire them and discover the added burden they cause and how quickly their value evaporates too.

Wasting resources of time and money on fleeting pleasures and possessions that quickly demand our attention to maintain becomes an all too common consequences. By contrast, when we use our resources of time and money more wisely and conservatively, we discover that during crisis or great need in our family or in other’s lives, we have sufficient resource to aid and minister to them.

Tithing is such a tool to help discover the truth of this mystery. When we tithe our gross income, result is learning how to say no to our wants and live a more modest lifestyle that equips us well for difficult times and enables us to do ministry in good and bad times while providing for our needs too. Likewise, a lifestyle of giving helps us be willing to accept help in our times of need from others.

Exodus 13:17 ^“17And it came to pass, when Pharaoh had let the people go, that God led them not through the way of the land of the Philistines, although that was near; for God said, lest peradventure the people repent when they see war, and they return to Egypt:”

This verse from Exodus gives a clue that God led Moses and the Israelites out of Egypt via a detour instead of through the land of the Philistines. Preparation time was needed. Mt. Sinai was needed to receive the 10 commandments. Even Moses and Aaron needed some preparation too.

So many examples in scripture and in our own lives to remind us that God is faithful and has a divine and wonderful purpose in all things He allows in our lives – good and bad, enjoyable and painful, helpful and harmful. So, the next time you and I encounter a bump in the road or a road block, let’s open ourselves for God to show us what He wants us to do and save the question “why” to be answered in God’s time instead of ours. AMEN? AMEN!

“Let me remind you that this is God’s universe, and He is doing things His way. You may think you have a better way, but you don’t have a universe to rule.” J. Vernon McGee

6/21/20 REST AND REFRESH 21

Jesus stood and cried out, saying, “If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink.” John 7:37

RECOMMENDED SCRIPTURE MATTHEW 11:28-30 “²⁸Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. ²⁹Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. ³⁰For My yoke is easy and My burden is light..”

COMMENTS: Anxiety and stress can be paralyzing emotions but in moderation can be motivating forces. Motivating to action and out of indifference. Likewise, rest and nourishment after completion of a challenging work or project or task is effective to prepare us so we can begin next challenge or project. There always is another task to do, but it is foolish to go from one to another without taking some time for proper rest and nourishment. Even Christ took time out for rest and food and drink. He also took time to nourish His spirit with fellowship with God the Father in prayer.

The disciples witnessed Him praying many times and longed to be able to pray like Him. They did learn to pray like Him, but discovered effective prayer requires surrender and waiting on Him to respond in His way and in His time.

We are not asked nor expected to live the Christian life alone nor without help. Our best source of help is His Word and His Holy Spirit. Other vital sources are His faithful in the Church and in the community and in our own families. When we seek and ask for help, our help comes from sources we know but also sources we hadn’t considered. God nudges and encourages us to be a source to others, but He also encourages and nudges others to be so for us. He knows and understands our weaknesses and needs and He also understands influence satan’s deceptions and temptations has on us too. All this serves to motivate Him to be and stay in our lives and be that source of strength and guidance and help we need. When He seems distant, usually it is because we are looking the other way or not looking at all. But there are instances when He seems to be distant so we can discover and develop greater faith and trust in Him.

David Jeremiah has stated we are either in the midst of a time of crisis or trial or coming out of such a time or about to go into such a time. Times of peace and comfort are usually short lived but so are times of difficulty usually. But He promises to not allow any more difficulty than we can bear with His help and will use such times for His Glory and our benefit. That benefit includes greater faith and maturity and a closer connection to Him. It also included more effective ministry and outreach and eternal positive impact on others if we are and remain faithful and obedient. AMEN? AMEN!

Jesus provides living water to energize and inspire and empower us but also rest not only sufficient but in abundance (Matthew 11:28-30). We can create that place of rest in a place of prayer or Bible study or meditation or worship—anywhere we can retreat from the cares and busyness of life. When we turn over those cares to God in prayer through Christ, His peace will guard our heart and mind (Philippians 4:6-7).

If you can retreat to a serene spot in nature—wonderful! If that’s not possible, retreat with Jesus wherever you can. He will meet you there.

“You made us for yourself, O Lord, and our hearts are restless till they rest in you.”

Augustine

6/22/20 CALM AND QUIET 22

Surely I have calmed and quieted my soul, like a weaned child with his mother; like a weaned child is my soul within me. Psalm 131:2

RECOMMENDED READING: PSALM 23:1-3. ” The Lord is my shepherd;I shall not want.²He makes me to lie down in green pastures;He leads me beside the still waters.³He restores my soul;He leads me in the paths of righteousnessFor His name’s sake.;”

COMMENTS: Psalm 23 is the most famous and often quoted psalm, used most commonly at Christian funeral services. In the midst of anxiety and distress, it becomes very difficult to sleep and get rest needed to be able to confront and manage source of that anxiety and distress. When we are tired, it is difficult to think and act logically and effectively. So the vicious cycle becomes anxiety and depression causes us to lose sleep. Losing sleep causes us to become weak and less able to manage and overcome depression and anxiety, thereby resulting in making poor choices that make circumstances worse and increases our level of anxiety and depression and stress.

Satan plays a key role in causing this cycle to start and continue because his goal is our destruction and pain and grief that needless destruction causes. Satan knows how much God loves and cares for us and sees that love as a weakness and not the strength and wonderful plan that Love created.

God also has a wonderful way of breaking that cycle and giving confident hope and a way to redemption and healing and rest for each of us enduring that cycle. Why? Because He knows the peril we are in and desires that we live and enjoy eternal life with Him instead of death and eternal agony satan wants for us.

There are plenty of good reasons to be anxious, depressed, and sleepless in today’s world. But Christians have promises from God that should alleviate all three symptoms—promises that God rules over all the earth and knows the beginning from the end of history. Our task is to do what the psalmist David did: He didn’t worry about “great matters” or things “too profound” for him. Instead, he “calmed and quieted” his soul like a “weaned child” at rest in its mother’s lap—peaceful and quiet (Psalm 131:1-2).

God’s job is to guide the world. Your job is to “be anxious for nothing” (Philippians 4:6), to rest in the Father’s promises.

“The Christian life is not a constant high. I have my moments of deep discouragement. I have to go to God in prayer with tears in my eyes, and say… “Help me.” “ Billy Graham

6/23/20 LIFE ON PURPOSE 23

Though He was a Son, yet He learned obedience by the things which He suffered.
Hebrews 5:8

Scripture Reading: HEBREWS 5:7-9 “⁷who, in the days of His flesh, when He had offered up prayers and supplications, with vehement cries and tears to Him who was able to save Him from death, and was heard because of His godly fear, ⁸though He was a Son, yet He learned obedience by the things which He suffered. ⁹And having been perfected, He became the author of eternal salvation to all who obey Him,”

COMMENTS: Christ’s example gives us a perfect example of how powerful a life lived following God’s predestined plan and purpose. Granted, Christ had a unique and unparalleled calling and mission, but He came not as God but as a man with all limitations a human has. He relinquished and left behind all His divine powers and wisdom and attribute so He would have to learn and receive divine help and wisdom and insights from the Father as do we. He became hungry and weak and discouraged and angry as do we, but refused to sin or allow satan’s temptations to defeat Him. He chose not to sin. Not because He couldn’t but because He chose to obey the Father and knew He could only fulfill His mission and redeem mankind if He remained sinless and go to the cross as a perfect – sinless but willing sacrifice.

Satan sure tried to tempt Christ to sin but failed. He came without privilege or protection or shielding from the Father. In fact, He faced the full impact of satan’s attacks and temptations and didn’t receive nourishment or strength from heaven until test was completed. So Christ not only understands our weaknesses but has experienced them too. So when the Holy Spirit abides in us and helps and strengthens us and encourages us, when Christ prays to the Father for us, and when the Triune God gives us promises and aid, we have the assurance He fully loves and understands us and not only has our best interest at heart but fully knows what we need and provides that help and satisfies that need. So John 3:16-17 and Romans 8:28-29 take on an even deeper and more life changing and powerful meaning when consider them with this perspective.

So, we learn obedience from Christ’s example. We learn the impact and sacrifice and price to be paid for obedience but we also learn the benefits and blessings of obedience. The countless examples recorded in scripture and in history of benefits and blessings of obedience as well as consequences of disobedience equip us to make an informed choice which path to follow. Satan still does all he can to hide the consequences of disobedience and make disobedience attractive, but the price is still the same and God has done all He can to enable us to make an informed choice, but our choice none the same. We have free will to choose but not free will to choose results or consequences. God’s mercy often shields us from the full impact of sin when we repent and often He delays that impact to give us more opportunity to repent and because He knows how terrible the price of sin is on us. He knows because He paid that price so we do not need to.

But even when we repent, sometimes He allows us to experience some of that pain as a deterrent and awakening of the importance of obedience and following His plan and council. He knows we soon forget or become discouraged.

So whether our day is good or bad, bright or dark, happy or sad, pleasant or painful, productive or wasted, GOD IS STILL GOOD AND FAITHFUL TO US!

Whether this day is “good” or “bad” in your sight, it has moved you closer to the image of Jesus.

“God is working out his eternal purpose, not only in spite of human and satanic opposition, but by means of them”. A. W. Pink

6/24/20 LIVING ABOVE THE WORLD 24

Such a one was caught up to the third heaven… into Paradise and heard inexpressible words. 2 Corinthians 12:2-4

RECOMMENDED SCRIPTURE 2 CORINTHIANS 12:1-6 – “ It is doubtless not profitable for me to boast. I will come to visions and revelations of the Lord: ²I know a man in Christ who fourteen years ago—whether in the body I do not know, or whether out of the body I do not know, God knows—such a one was caught up to the third heaven. ³And I know such a man—whether in the body or out of the body I do not know, God knows— ⁴how he was caught up into Paradise and heard inexpressible words, which it is not lawful for a man to utter. ⁵Of such a one I will boast; yet of myself I will not boast, except in my infirmities. ⁶For though I might desire to boast, I will not be a fool; for I will speak the truth. But I refrain, lest anyone should think of me above what he sees me to be or hears from me.”

COMMENTS: Near death experiences have got attention in recent years with the published books “90 minutes in Heaven” and “Heaven is for Real” For me, these 2 books are the most credible because they share the experiences of genuine Christians and are supported by scripture. Some are not and should not be considered. After all, satan is the skilled deceiver and is very persuasive at making what is fake seem real and genuine.

George Whitefield gave an account of William Tennent, a friend, who was pronounced dead but during his funeral a doctor noticed movement and discovered he was not dead at all but just unconscious. William recovered and gave an account of the glory of heaven with singing and indescribable joy.

For many years Tennent continued to testify of his experience and the impact it made on his life and perspective. His experience caused him to put less concern on worldly issues and values and more on Godly issues and values and on the importance of eternal concerns like the souls of people.

Everyone has or will experience the loss of a loved one and the lonely sleepless nights that loss gives. But the Christian believer has so much more to give peace and comfort and confident hope. As a believer, we know that during dark hours we are not alone nor abandoned. God’s comfort surpasses understanding. We anticipate heaven, and that anticipation enables us to live above the world where we can see eternity. Satan doesn’t want us to see eternity, because his lies and dead ends are exposed there and it is there he loses his power over us. AMEN? AMEN!

“I want to live above the world, though Satan’s darts at me are hurled; for faith has caught the joyful sound, the song of saints on higher ground.” Johnson Oatman

6/25/20 JESUS – THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD 25

Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven. Matthew 5:16

RECOMMENDED READING: I PETER 2:12 “ ¹²having your conduct honorable among the Gentiles, that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may, by your good works which they observe, glorify God in the day of visitation..”

COMMENTS: Being a Christ follower – a Christian is an awesome blessing and privilege. To be able and have access to fellowship with the God of the Universe and have a personal relationship with Him is overwhelming. To be able to know Him and for Him to know and be close to us 24x7x365 is life changing. But there is more. For God to come as Jesus to earth and buy our forgiveness and redemption by His own blood and to show us how to live while He lived on earth is such a key to knowing how we and everyone willing can gain such a privileged place. To know there is room at His cross and throne for everyone willing to accept it to receive, so we are not robbing others that opportunity by embracing that privilege for ourselves. In fact, by embracing Christ, we encourage others too as well. Human aspiration to gain status or success or ambition is distorted and corrupted by motivation to achieve personal goal by preventing or hindering others from reaching these goals. The human approach and motivation is selfish.

But God’s perspective – motivation – approach is for us is inclusive. To embrace and welcome all sincere and obedient seekers and show each how to put other’s needs ahead of their own. But even more, to put God’s Will above theirs.

So being a “Christ follower” means we have great privilege and have access to great wisdom and council and instruction and guidance, but also means we gave great responsibility and accountability because we are God’s ambassadors. Our conduct reflects on Him, so when we act poorly or selfishly or sinfully, we are not the examples and encouragers and evangelists we are called to be.

God does hold us accountable and expects us to live at the level He has enlightened and guided us to live. Matthew 5:14-16 “¹⁴Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid.¹⁵Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house.¹⁶Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.”

We are the light of the world that the world sees when we live as Christ has called and showed us to. Christ is the light, not us, but how effectively His light shines in and through us is what we are referring to. In order for Christ to shine in and through us, we must no longer allow the clouds and storms of sin to block His “Sonlight”. We still have freedom to choose sin over obedience to Christ. The benefits of obedience and submission shines on us and those we influence, but the consequences of disobedience and sin do also. There is so much at stake, but we are not in it alone. God does not leave us unprepared and defenseless. If you doubt that, just look at the Paul and the disciples and the transformation they experienced and demonstrated. They all went from selfish – short sighted men who didn’t have a clue what Jesus was teaching until the Holy Spirit came into their soul and transformed them. From that day forward their word and conduct and motivation was amazingly more Christ like than possible before. They faced persecution and suffering and even death with confidence and joy opposite to the fear and lack of confidence they demonstrated before. So will we when we choose following Him and stop following satan too. AMEN? AMEN!

“Light reveals righteousness, and it also reveals sin. “ Theodore Epp

6/26/20 PERFORMING UNDER PRESSURE 26

We are hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed. 2 Corinthians 4:8-9

Recommended Reading: 2 CORINTHIANS 1:8-11 ⁸For we do not want you to be ignorant, brethren, of our trouble which came to us in Asia: that we were burdened beyond measure, above strength, so that we despaired even of life. ⁹Yes, we had the sentence of death in ourselves, that we should not trust in ourselves but in God who raises the dead, ¹⁰who delivered us from so great a death, and does deliver us; in whom we trust that He will still deliver us, ¹¹you also helping together in prayer for us, that thanks may be given by many persons on our behalf for the gift granted to us through many..”

COMMENTS: Why must good people endure injustice and persecution and worse from the hands of angry or evil motivated people while those doing evil often enjoy prosperity and little consequence of their actions. Well, God does promise eternal reward for our faithfulness and that those who do injustice and persecute His servants will be held accountable and face judgment for their actions. God’s compassion and mercy does bring delayed judgment for the guilty because He would much rather they repent and be spared His judgment. Judgment comes when damage done by evil becomes too great to delay any longer. Mercy comes when those guilty of sin come seeking forgiveness and a new better life. All deserve God’s judgment because all are guilty of sin, but those willing to repent and change find God’s mercy instead of His judgment. Those who refuse to repent and continue the destructive path of sin, will ultimately only find judgment and death.

How will God judge us? Since He requires perfection and must judge sin, how can anyone be spared of His judgment? Can anyone live a life good enough? How much must we suffer or endure in order to be judged worthy or sufficient for our redemption?

To ask these questions misses the point. We could not endure or do enough to win our own redemption. God sees us as forgiven and perfect when He sees us their His Son’s blood and sacrifice. That can only be if we allow Him to be our advocate to the Father and accept His gift of forgiveness bases on Christ’s sacrifice. By doing this, we open opportunity for His life changing Spirit to enter and begin cleaning up and healing our sickness of sin and its destructive influence.

We change after being forgiven, not in order to be forgiven.

What we endure and hardships we experience is not God’s desire but instead is satan’s influence attempting to hinder God’s Will and discourage our obedience. God does and will use satan’s evil purpose and work for good, so God will be honored and His servants will be blessed and stronger. Their suffering has a limited duration and purpose. Satan is allowed to try within limits, but satan cannot stop God’s will not prevent God’s people from obeying His Will and instructions.

“While the fire is hot, keep conversing with the Refiner.” F. B. Meyer

6/27/20 Two Kinds of Prayer 27

Immediately the father of the child cried out and said with tears, “Lord, I believe; help my unbelief!” Mark 9:24

RECOMMENDED SCRIPTURE READING: MATTHEW 6:9-13 “⁹In this manner, therefore, pray:

Our Father in heaven,Hallowed be Your name.¹⁰Your kingdom come.Your will be doneOn earth as it is in heaven.¹¹Give us this day our daily bread.¹²And forgive us our debts,As we forgive our debtors.¹³And do not lead us into temptation,But deliver us from the evil one.For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen..”

COMMENTS: Sincere seeking and devout Christians worship and praise and pray in different ways but ways meaningful to them. Some use repetition of familiar and written words authored by themselves or even by Christians of long ago. Some use words of scripture directly while others use words that scripture inspires them to say. Some worship standing with arms raised while others worship prostrate on their knees or face down. Some pray and praise dancing and jumping.

Our brothers and sisters, especially in Africa, are accustomed to worship while dancing and singing and jumping and running. Such is a wonderful expression of joy and excitement and life that fellowship and worship inspires and causes to bubble up in the believer experiencing it. I watched a video of such a worship service and noticed especially the joy and enjoyment of God’s presence the large crowd showed and expressed.

There is no doubt they were reverent in their expression of praise and worship and God was honored and I’m sure enjoyed their expression of praise and worship too.

I can’t help but wonder what it will be like when we together see Christ and worship and praise Him together in heaven. What a glorious expression and experience that will be but also witnessing and joining in with the expressions of praise and love and worship others bring to that day.

The “Lord’s Prayer” Jesus taught His disciples, and us as recorded in Matthew 6:9-13, is such a written and prayer of repetition effectively used by Christians over the centuries. However, the Bible is also filled with instances of spontaneous prayers expressing need and giving praise inspired and motivated at that moment.

The father who brought his demonic son to Jesus for healing responded “Lord help my unbelief”. His honest words of doubt enabled Jesus to guide Him into the level of faith necessary for healing and the miracle he sought to happen.

Prayers using memorized words allow us time to pray meditatively pondering and reflecting and thinking about the words we pray, using words that may not come to mind otherwise. Likewise, spontaneous prayers call up passion and devotion and surrender to the One we are seeking help and fellowship with. Both are important expressions of worship and praise and communication and fellowship with our Creator and Lord and Savior and Provider and King and Friend. God is all this and so much more to us. Why would we not expect prayer and worship to have many layers and levels and facets too?

As you and I pray, included both practiced prayers and spontaneous – pressured prayers. Then we will be able to enjoy the blessings that come from both and from each.

“Prayer does not change God, but it changes him who prays. “ Soren Kierkegaard

6/28/20 GOD’S IDEA 28

Then He who sat on the throne said, “Behold, I make all things new.”
Revelation 21:5

RECOMMENDED READING: REVELATION 21:3-7 “ ³And I heard a loud voice from heaven saying, “Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and He will dwell with them, and they shall be His people. God Himself will be with them and be their God. ⁴And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away.”

⁵Then He who sat on the throne said, “Behold, I make all things new.” And He said to me, “Write, for these words are true and faithful.”⁶And He said to me, “It is done! I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. I will give of the fountain of the water of life freely to him who thirsts. ⁷He who overcomes shall inherit all things, and I will be his God and he shall be My son…”

COMMENTS: God’s ways and plan and schedule is always THE BEST. It sure doesn’t seems that way often on earth. Death and destruction is dominant in the news while acts of compassion and kindness and building and healing and saving lives seldom makes the news. But reality is evidence of God’s involvement and kindness is all around us all the time and is evident by conduct of many or most in every community. Criminals and thugs and bullies and terrorists and evil motivated men and women are also in every country and community doing their mischief motivated and inspired by satan himself. But God is still on His throne and satan can only act as far as God permits. It is not God’s will that satan tempt us, but it is God’s will that we be given free will to choose. God persuades and encourages all to do His will and not satan’s.

Satan does all he can to persuade us God’s ways are unnecessary and unpopular and not beneficial while his ways are fun and enjoyable and beneficial. If we simply study scripture and reflect on the lives of friends and family before us, we quickly discover God’s Ways are best and satan’s ways are always disastrous. THERE ARE NO EXCEPTIONS, NOT ONE! One day we all will breathe our last and will face Christ as our judge or as our Redeemer. If we accept His gift of forgiveness and surrender our lives to Him while on earth, we are guaranteed to face Him then as our Redeemer, but if we refuse Him while on earth, we are assured our only option after death will be facing Him as our Judge.

WE DON’T WANT TO FACE HIM AS OUR JUDGE! But if we do, we will have no one to blame but ourselves for the torment and regret and misery that will be our eternal future.

You and I plus God is a majority. The world together without God is less than one alone. Jesus can and will defeat satan and all his angels with a word of command. But Jesus also has all the army of angels available to Him from heaven and the Father’s authority and power are given to and available to Jesus. He will use them one day when God’s Plan and timing is fulfilled. AMEN? AMEN!

As the saying goes, “You haven’t seen anything yet!” Enjoy the beauty of the earth today, but get ready—the best is yet to come.

“Wisdom opens the eyes both to the glories of heaven and to the hollowness of earth.” J. A. Motyer

6/29/20 Tears in Jerusalem 29 Then I, John, saw the holy city, New Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.
Revelation 21:2

RECOMMENDED READING: PSALM 125:1-2 “Those who trust in the Lord are like Mount Zion, which cannot be moved, but abides forever.²As the mountains surround Jerusalem,So the Lord surrounds His people from this time forth and forever”

COMMENTS: In recent years there has been a significant increase in number of Jews migrating back to Israel and especially to Jerusalem. Such if foretold in scripture prophecy. The generation that see the restoration of Israel will also see Christ’s return (Matthew 24:34). The condition of the world and time elapsed since Israel was established in 1948 gives us a sense of urgency that Christ’s return is imminent. Yet, the event that started that clock and the lifespan God uses to determine the time – schedule for Christ’s return are not clear and will not be since only God knows when Christ will return and will keep that secret until it happens. But that doesn’t mean He is revealing clues that warn and tell us His return is close, so we need to get ready – to prepare.

Christ did say that the time of His return will be desperate enough that if He would delay any longer, man would destroy himself (Matthew 24:22).

Allyah is a Jewish word describing the modern immigration of Jews to Jerusalem. This migration began in the 1890’s and has grown into the millions in recent years. In 1948 Israel officially became a nation recognized by most of the free world.

In 1967, Israel’s soldiers took control of Jerusalem from attacking and invading forces. The sight of the western wall brought these soldiers to tears. Since then millions of Jews and Christians have visited and been moved as well.

But as holy and precious Jerusalem is to devout Jews, how much more is the eternal place (heaven) Jesus is preparing for those who accept His forgiveness and surrender to His guiding hand and instruction (John 14:1-3).

Scripture says there will be no tears of sorrow in heaven (Revelation 21:4)—only joyful celebrations worshiping the Lamb who died for our sin.

“Those who have the new Jerusalem in their eye must have the ways that lead to it in their heart.” , Matthew Henry

6/3 WHET YOUR APPETITE FOR HEAVEN 30

But as it is written: “Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor have entered into the heart of man the things which God has prepared for those who love Him.” 1 Corinthians 2:9

SCRIPTURE: ROMANS 11:33-36 “³³Oh, the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments and His ways past finding out!³⁴“For who has known the mind of the Lord?Or who has become His counselor?”³⁵“Or who has first given to HimAnd it shall be repaid to him?”³⁶For of Him and through Him and to Him are all things, to whom be glory forever. Amen..”

COMMENTS: I don’t know about you, but as I get older and feel my age, I find myself reflecting on what God still has for me to do, on work and “loose ends” still needing done, on home and church projects and volunteer work still needing my input and help, on relationships still needing my influences. However, I am also reflecting more on how the lives of those before me impacted me while they were in their senior years and using their example to help guide me on how maybe I should prioritize and use what time God has yet for me to spend. Even 20 years seem all so brief and short from my perspective now after nearly 70 years of life even though at 20 I thought it was an eternity and even at 60, twenty years seemed like a long time.

Such contemplations may sound depressing or the anticipation of heaven and knowledge of those I personally know residing there makes going there something to look forward to like I looked forward to retirement when in my late 40’s with greater anticipation when in my late 50’s. Such caused me then to make preparations in 401k and financial planning and investing and expense control that helped in providing income during the retirement years I am now enjoying. I couldn’t have imagined creating and building a blog and devotional journal distribution during the years as has unfolded now. Likewise, I cannot imagine what God has planned for me and you in heaven – more than a beautiful place to live and enjoy – more than a place to entertain ourselves. Also a place to do His bidding and fulfill His Plan and Work. Without the chains of sin and satan’s torment and temptations, what will you and I be capable of doing? What can we do now that we were unprepared for 20 or 30 years ago? I can think of much, of which the least is being able to write this journal. So what is God preparing us for now in the years before heaven? I look forward to discovery, because I know He is planning something very good for me and equally good for you! What and when is His secret for now … Just like children, we can ask “how many days until Christmas?” But for us “how many days until heaven?” His response, like our parents long ago would respond “Soon my child, soon.” AMEN? AMEN!

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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Christian Devotional Journal – Ministry Resource Source

DEVOTION JOURNAL – JUNE 2020 – DON MCDANIEL

6/14/20 THREE PLACES TO LOOK 14

Though one may be overpowered by another, two can withstand him. And a threefold cord is not quickly broken. Ecclesiastes 4:12

Recommended Reading: HEBREWS 10:24-25 “²⁴And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, ²⁵not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching.”

6/17/20 HOW LONG? 17

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6/14/20 THREE PLACES TO LOOK 14

Though one may be overpowered by another, two can withstand him. And a threefold cord is not quickly broken. Ecclesiastes 4:12

Recommended Reading: HEBREWS 10:24-25 “ 24 And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, 25 not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching.”

6/17/20 HOW LONG? 17

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Recommended Reading: HEBREWS 10:24-25 “²⁴And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, ²⁵not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching.”