“Perhaps you or someone you know has been impacted by the devastating tornadoes and storms
that ripped through the heartland of the United States this past week.
Many have been confirmed dead … hundreds injured … and countless homes, businesses, and prop
erties destroyed. We pray for healing, for comfort, for peace, for the many, many families touched
by this tragedy.
Natural disasters like this aren’t just happening with increased frequency. It seems they are hap
pening more violently and destructively than ever before.
As we read in Matthew 24, this escalation in natural disasters and many other kinds of destruction
is a sign of the end-times.
In fact, there are 10 very specific things that Scripture warns will progressively increase as signs of
the approaching Tribulation:
1. Deception. “Many will come in My name, saying ‘I am the Christ,’ and will deceive
many” (Matthew 24:5, NKJV).
2. Dissension. “You will hear of wars and rumors of wars … Nation will rise against nation,
and kingdom against kingdom” (Matthew 24:6-7, NKJV).
3. Devastation. “There will be famines …” (Matthew 24:7, NKJV).4. Disease. “… pestilences …” (Matthew 24:7, NKJV).
5. Disasters. “… and earthquakes in various places” (Matthew 24:7, NKJV).
6. Death. “They will deliver you up to tribulation and kill you, and you will be hated by all
nations for My name’s sake” (Matthew 24:9, NKJV).
7. Disloyalty. “Many will be offended, will betray one another, and will hate one another”
(Matthew 24:10, NKJV).
8. Delusion. “Many false prophets will rise up and deceive many” (Matthew 24:11, NKJV).
9. Defection. “Because lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold” (Mathew
24:12, NKJV).
10. Declaration. “This gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness
to all the nations” (Matthew 24:14, NKJV).
But take heart — it will get better.
Yes, these are the birth pains of a world that is quickly coming to the end … pains which are coming
more frequently and painfully. But at the end of this labor, like any other, a new life will be born:
A new heaven, and a new earth, as foretold in Revelation 21.
Don’t be discouraged by the pain and sorrow we face today as the Tribulation approaches. Because
we know that this pain is only temporary, and will give way to a beautiful gift that far outshines the
pain we’ve endured … We have a new life to look forward to — an eternity of rejoicing and
celebration with God our Father. “
Letter from Dr. David Jeremiah dated 5/25/13

6/1/23 Test the Spirits 2

Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits, whether they are of God; because many false prophets have gone out into the world.
1 John 4:1

C

Recommended Reading Daniel 7:15-28

aveat emptor is a Latin phrase that means “let the buyer beware.” While literally the phrase referred to a buyer’s diminished rights after the sale of property (“look before you buy”), it serves as a warning to all who are about to buy or believe anything.

The apostle John issued a spiritual version of caveat emptor in his first letter when he wrote, “Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits, whether they are of God.” Why? “Because many false prophets have gone out into the world.” A day is coming when a political leader will rise up on the world stage and tell the world he can bring peace and prosperity if only people will give him their allegiance. And many people will — and they will suffer the consequences. This Antichrist will speak eloquently and boastfully, and his false prophet assistant will work miracles. At that time as in no other, people will need to “test the spirits.”
All Christians should be like the first century Bereans who studied the Scriptures daily to separate truth from error (Acts 17:11).
“The way to test yourself, the way to test any man, is to look below the surface.”
D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones

COMMENTS: I included a letter I received 10 yrs ago email from David Jeremiah since gives a good summary of end time signs noted in Matthew 24. There have been a lot of books and pamphlets written by bible scholars that were convinced they had enough clues to predict when Christ would return. There has also been a lot of debate over the centuries related to if church would be raptured before tribulation or mid-way thru or at end of tribulation. Scripture indicates our understanding of prophecy will improve as we get close to tribulation but also warned deception will increase as well. I support David’s belief that the Rapture will be before tribulation and agree deception during tribulation will be great and will be very difficult to be saved during Tribulation. However, I do believe there will be large numbers of those left behind saved during this time if they have not received the “mark of the beast” that will seal their judgment by God. Bible tells us those who receive the mark will be destined for God’s judgment so will be lost without hope.

Today’s devotion touches on the deceptive powers the anti-christ will have and be able to gain leadership power over entire world due to his supernatural powers and ability to unite people to follow him. Scripture tells us only those close to God will be able to see thru the deception. However, every generation has been deceived by satan and even Christians have failed when entertained temptations instead of spending time in scripture and prayer and fellowship with other believers to strengthen and make them accountable to resist temptations and satan’s deception.

6/2/23 Be Prayerful and Careful 3
Take heed to yourselves, lest your heart be deceived, and you turn aside and serve other gods and worship them.
Deuteronomy 11:16

Recommended Reading Mark 13:21-23

Does a deceived person know he or she is deceived? By definition, No. It is, in fact, possible to be deceived about deception. For instance, many Christians are not aware that, while the coming Antichrist is an individual human person, there is a spirit of the Antichrist already let loose in the world causing many to be deceived (1 John 4:1-3). The spirit of the Antichrist is, of course, Satan — “a liar and the father of lies” (John 8:44, NIV). Satan’s native language is lies, and his primary methodology is deception by counterfeiting the truth. To miss a target by an inch has the same result as missing by a mile, and Satan is satisfied with an inch’s — worth of error in what he promotes on earth. Satan’s main tactic in spiritual warfare is to misrepresent the Word and character of God. And the closer we get to the end of the age, the more deception he will attempt to foist on the human race.
Go slow, be careful and prayerful, and test everything by patience and the Word of God. Ask God to examine what you believe and to confirm by His Word any error (Psalm 139:23-24).
The fundamental deception of Satan is the lie that obedience can never bring happiness.
R. C. Sproul

COMMENTS: Today’s devotion causes me to reflect on the core of why I believe what I do and how people can be and are deceived and what would put us at risk of being deceived as well. I can recall what has put me at risk in past – pursuing things I wanted (money, success, a happy life, security, a new or better house and car, a better or higher paying job, a long life, even a wife and family). In every instance I could see a dark road ahead when started to wonder from God’s will especially when could see result of others taking that path. Yet, what is it that will enlighten me and give me the foresight and discernment to recognize wrong choices and not to others? What is it that may convince others to take paths the turn out being unfortunately, yet they were convinced they were right? Has there been times I was likewise deceived and what was different. These are hard questions but I do think it is helpful to reflect and come back to the place where we find a true compass. My compass is the Bible and insight the Holy Spirit gives me as I pray and study. Other books by Christians I trust and respect are helpful too. Life experiences of Christians from ages past and more contemporary are helpful. Their right and wrong choices do help guide me to make wise choices and avoid foolish choices too. However, I have found repeatedly that praying directly to God and asking His help and guidance makes all the difference too. I have found patience in waiting for His answer is key since He doesn’t work on my time frame. I tend to get impatient and start going ahead of God thinking He will open and close doors. Yet, I usually would find a better choice down the road that wasn’t evident when I started out and would have been if I only had waited. I am so glad we both chose to wait when it came to finding a wife and husband. Arlene and I have fulfilled each others lives as well as enabling God to establish a family to honor Him. I have found relying on the Bible to be the gage showing me right from wrong and basis of judging wise from foolish choices to be compass that has been true and has guided me to make choices that ended up being wise that didn’t seem as wise to me when making them. Doesn’t it seem odd that God’s ways continue to be so foreign to ours but scripture even tells us that so should be surprised. However, the fact I still am capable of being deceived after 62 yrs as a Christian show me how much I still need Him and his guiding Hand!!

6/3/23 Cunning and Innocence 4
Now the serpent was more cunning than any beast of the field which the LORD God had made.
Genesis 3:1a

Recommended Reading Proverbs 5:3-6

We often miss, in English, the subtleties of the Bible’s original languages. For example, in the story of Adam and Eve’s temptation and fall into sin, the serpent is described as “cunning.” Before their encounter with the serpent, Adam and Eve are described as “naked.” What we don’t see in English is that the Hebrew words for “cunning” (‘arum) and “naked” (‘arom) are almost identical. This was no linguistic coincidence.

Moses’ point was to link the serpent’s craftiness with Adam and Eve’s innocence, symbolized by their nakedness. The serpent was no doubt beautiful in appearance and his words were definitely persuasive — words that piqued the first couple’s interest and appealed to their human desires to taste what was forbidden. By yielding to the serpent’s charisma, their eyes were opened and their innocence lost. The point: Innocence is often lost at the hands of that which is crafty, beautiful, or charismatic. Every follower of Jesus must be wise about what is good and innocent amidst what is evil (Matthew 10:16).The whole history of the world is discovered to be but a contest between the wisdom of God and the cunning of Satan and fallen men. A. W. Tozer COMMENTS: Temptations come in many forms and ways. The standard the 10 commandments (Exodus 20) established reminds us the standard He has set for us. They are good in preventing us from diluting or justify sinfulness so we feel ok indulging in sin of any kind or degree. However, these commandments also are to remind us just how impossible it is to obey them on our own or without His help and Grace. Satan has mastered the skills of deception and temptation, but he has had thousands of years to polish his skills and train his demons. How can we think we are smart enough or wise enough to defeat him when we have examples in scripture and history books and even in our own families and communities to tell us we are no match for satan’s powers of deception. Timothy was told to flee youthful lusts, so it is better to run away from temptation instead of trying to fight or defeat it. I need to also remind myself that satan can even tempt me with good things that are not the best God has planned. When day gets too filled with busy things and am not willing to accept distractions God puts in my path, than for me that is sinful too. Taking time to visit someone in a nursing home or visit with a neighbor or talk to a child are all those distractions that will make a difference in someone’s life but also in mine. I can recall many distractions I had during work hours that would have made a difference but felt I couldn’t take a moment out to talk. Yet when a work related phone call came in, I accepted the distraction without a blink and then went back to planned work. Typically I would find distractions God would put in my path were normally just a few minutes but distractions satan will put in my path appear to be short but end up taking much longer. God’s distraction may appear to take too much time but end up being just a few minutes. Has that been your experience too? Being prepared for God’s distractions may mean some work developing the relationship with Him we were designed to have!! I am glad God’s Grace and forgiveness is ongoing and not just once. However, I am also so grateful God is a relational God, which means He actively works to establish and sustain a relationship with me and you. So, that means His Plan is to help us thru a relationship with us. I don’t want to take for granted how amazing it is that the Creator of everything is passionate about establishing and sustaining a relationship with me and you but He does!!

6/4/23 A Defeated Foe 5
He who sins is of the devil, for the devil has sinned from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that He might destroy the works of the devil. 1 John 3:8

Recommended Reading Revelation 20:7-10

Some readers of novels begin on page one and read page by page until the conclusion. They want to experience the questions, the tension, the crises, and the surprises just as the author intended. Others begin their reading five pages from the end. They want the context of the conclusion to provide a backdrop before they return and begin reading at the start. The Bible is not a novel, and certainly not a work of fiction, though it does follow a generally chronological path from Genesis to Revelation. So there is value in reading the Bible from beginning to end. But it is also entirely legitimate to read the last chapters first. When we read about the doom of Satan (Revelation 20) and the forthcoming New Jerusalem (Revelation 21-22), we are given great confidence as to how things play out in the end. The apostle John put it best: “… the Son of God was manifested, that He might destroy the works of the devil” (1 John 3:8). Face this day with the confidence that the Bible’s final pages declare: Satan is a defeated foe, and you are a victor in Christ! Satan, as in his first temptation, is still on the losing side. William Gurnall COMMENTS: Today’s devotion is a bit difficult to comment on. If you read I John 3, you find out that those born of Christ practice righteousness and those born of satan practice sin. Likewise we are then told that those born of Christ are incapable of practicing sin. Where does that leave us who have accepted Christ and are on the journey of living Christ-like lives and growing in His grace and becoming like Him but still live imperfect and sinful lives? I don’t think we can fully answer that question because none of us are capable of fully comprehending the righteousness of Christ or living that righteousness so any understanding of or success we have living a righteous life may be a significant change from the sinful life we were saved from but still an eternity away from being Christ-like. The comparison I heard a few years ago and helped my understanding was to imagine yourself in New York City facing the Atlantic Ocean. If being Christ like is like walking to Los Angeles from New York City. Being in New York City is a huge distance away but until we turn and face Los Angeles and take first step, there is no hope of getting there. Each step we take walking towards Los Angeles is a step further away from New York City and view of New York City starts becoming smaller and further away and scenery changes and our attention changes. Over the months of walking towards Los Angeles our focus and determination may become stronger as God feeds, encourages, and helps us. It may be best we don’t know how far away destination is or challenges and dangers and discouragements we will face along with way. We may think a month into journey we are almost there but truth is we are closer but still a long ways away. The path He is guiding us on is making us more like Him and less like satan as we continue but we will not be truly Christ like until we get to heaven and He fully transforms us. However, every step along the way slowly and continuously makes it more evident of change within us and example we are reflecting. I think that is why those like Joni Eareckson Tata or Billy Graham, who reflect a Christ like life better than most, are also the first to admit they are still sinful and fall short. I don’t think that is meant to discourage us but to convince us that Christ’s Grace is needed for salvation but must continue daily for us to sustain a continuing relationship with our Lord. Just as we can not live long without water and food daily, we were not designed live daily without Him.

6/5/23 Caution: Trouble Ahead 6
Alas! For that day is great, so that none is like it; and it is the time of Jacob’s trouble, but he shall be saved out of it. Jeremiah 30:7

Recommended Reading Matthew 24:21-25

In hindsight, we can usually look back after a world-changing event and see signs that indicated trouble was coming. Biblical prophecy gives us the ability to look forward and see both the signs and the events.

That is true of the coming Great Tribulation — the seven-year period of “trouble” that will come upon the earth. The Bible tells us clearly that this period of time is coming, but it doesn’t tell us when. But like all world-level events, there will be signs that tell us the Tribulation is getting closer. What kind of signs? If the Tribulation is going to be a time of trouble like the world has never seen, then we should look for “troubling” signs in the world. And there are more of those in our day than ever before. Wars, diseases, natural disasters, geopolitical turmoil, economic instability — these are troubles that will only be magnified in the coming Tribulation.
Just because the Church will not go through the Tribulation is no reason to take these signs lightly. We should be even more motivated to share the Gospel with those destined for that great time of trouble.
We are not to require “signs,” but we are to regard signs. Ian MacPherson COMMENTS: When I look back and realize the things I wish I could have changed, I can see warning signs that should have convinced me. I put a large % of my 401k in Joy stock because it was going thru a repeated cycle of price rises and falls so thought I could take advantage of that cycle and make some money but didn’t imagine Joy was about to go bankrupt. Likewise, I saw corrections coming in stock market but didn’t get out when should have. If I would have bought Microsoft stock instead of my first computer in 1989, that money would have increased by 1000 times. Fortunately most of my regrets have been in purchases or investments and not in the more important things (relationships). However, now that I’m retired I am not as willing to venture into more speculative investments believing brokers advice that long term investing is best and don’t be concerned with bear markets because I do believe we are approaching the unthinkable – The Great Tribulation. God has allowed me to recover from foolish investments and purchases and helped me avoid making foolish relational choices that likely would have left deeper scars harder to heal. I believe God will help me make wise decisions going forward and spare me going thru the Tribulation but do believe there are hard times ahead I likely will need to endure so am praying for wisdom both in investments as well as in witness and relationships so I can make an eternal difference and be a blessing to those around me in meantime. That means spending money and time wisely. As you read this you may judge how well I have so far accomplished or how foolishly I have failed in that effort and learn from my example. David Jeremiah has effectively been teaching from Daniel, bringing fresh insights into prophecies God gave Daniel – showing us how He fulfilled some of those prophecies and then sharing those yet to be fulfilled. This study underscores the importance of being prepared for the times ahead. Past has shown us it is most important to be as deeply in relationship with God as we can and obedient to what He requires in order to be protected. It amazes me that as much as history proves over and over again how foolish it is to rebel against God or even ignore Him and the consequences that have played out over and over again in history, yet how each generation continues to repeat those mistakes and how much more so today’s generation seems to want to turn their back on God and even deny He exists. I fear for this generation and my country because I know God’s patience will run out and judgment will result – and this time it may very well be the Great Tribulation told in Daniel, Matthew 24, and Revelation especially. I encourage you to run to God especially if in those times.

6/6/23 Life’s Final Test 7
Take heed, watch and pray; for you do not know when the time is.
Mark 13:33

Recommended Reading Titus 2:11-14

Anybody who has been to school knows what “cramming” is. We know a test is coming but we fail to prepare until the last minute. Often a syllabus is handed out at the beginning of the course that has the dates of each test—so students know exactly what is coming. Yet it is human nature to put off until tomorrow what we can prepare for today.

The Bible is like that syllabus. It tells anyone who will read it of the last great test humanity will face: “And as it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment” (Hebrews 9:27). Jesus Christ will return to earth to judge the world and establish His righteous kingdom of peace and justice. Many have heard this truth and have postponed preparing for this final test, the only preparation being to place one’s faith in Christ Himself. And many Christians, who will also be tested by Christ (1 Corinthians 3:11-15; 2 Corinthians 5:10), are failing to live in such a way that will result in rewards for their faithfulness. If you do not know Christ, prepare today by accepting Him as Savior and Lord. And if you do know Him, live today in a manner that declares your faith.
No one is redeemed except through unmerited mercy, and no one is condemned except through merited judgment. Augustine COMMENTS: Even though it has been 50 years since I graduated from college, I can still clearly remember those long days and nights of studying for finals or doing term papers. School didn’t come easy and memorization was always very difficult but managed to get thru it. I wasn’t a fan of history because of all the memorization, I preferred math since was easier for me. However, over time I have found math less appealing and history more appealing since am studying history to learn how people lived and how God interacted with them instead of just memorizing events and dates. When I look at the text books and stories told to students 100+ years ago, I realize how we have been cheated in school. My textbooks, and even more so now, have had God’s influence removed. The miracles God performed during the Revolutionary and Civil Wars, how God influenced Christopher Columbus to make his journey because God told him there are people across the ocean who needed to be told of Him. I never heard that in school but have learned those stories were taught to students in past generations. Peter Marshall II has brought many of those stories to light in his books, as one example. Prophecy tells us the in later days society will judge evil as good and good as evil. We are living in a time when this is coming to pass and commonly people have lost a sense of their own sinfulness and moral compass. Life is losing it’s value and any mention of Christ brings a reaction of being judgmental at the least and even accusation of being a part of a “terroristic organization”. I have seen the reaction to the Gospel from: “I don’t need God and am good enough on my own to I need” to “I need to change myself before can come to God for salvation” to “I need to get a few things out of the way before I can focus on serving God” to “I’m not sure I am willing to submit to God’s will – I might not like where He’ll send me” to “Now isn’t a good time, I’m too busy right now – will submit to God tomorrow when have more time” to “… you can fill in the blank.. There are a lot of excuses to avoiding or delaying making a decision to ask forgiveness and let God’s saving Grace into your soul. Yet, God values a daily relationship with each of us and is not satisfied with a visit a couple of times a year in church or a prayer from us in during a crisis. We would grieve if our children only visited us that often and would long for more. When I realized how much God wanted a daily relationship with me, that motivated me to spend more time with Him and study His love letter to us. I pray you come to that same revelation too – He loves you that much too!!!

6/7/23 Armstrong or Strong Arm 8
You have a strong arm; Your hand is mighty, Your right hand is exalted.
Psalm 89:13 (NASB)

Recommended Reading Matthew 24:36-42

When cyclist Lance Armstrong admitted to doping and lying, USA Today ran an article on how he could get back into good graces, saying: “He just has to repent — or appear to,” in four stages: Confession (“I did it”); Contrition (“I’m sorry I did it”); Conversion (“I will not do it again”); and Atonement (“I will do this because I did that”). Those terms have a biblical ring to them; but when celebrities go on television with their scandals it often seems more like damage control and media manipulation than genuine repentance.
How refreshing in an age of flawed heroes to turn to the most honest person in history. Everything Jesus said is true, spoken earnestly for our good. His words about the future are as truthful as His other teachings. Jesus predicted all that is to come from now until His return, and both His promises and His person are perfectly reliable. In days like these, we can lean on His strong arm.
Every other refuge in which you may seek safety and rest will, sooner or later, turn out to be a refuge of lies; but the refuge to be found in Jesus will never disappoint your hopes: it will abide forever.
Anonymous quote in a nineteenth-century tract Hebrews 9:28 “ So Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many; and he will
appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who arewaiting for him.” COMMENTS: Satan is such a cunning foe. He is very skillful at seducing you and me to do sinful things we would never dream of doing but he does that one small step at a time. I recall information that a frog will jump out of a pan of hot water but if put in a pan of lukewarm water and water is heated slowly – he will allow himself to be boiled alive. As we gradually allow ourselves to be exposed to and yield to temptations, the more insensitive we become and willing to do things we would never do when in close relationship with God. We walk away from God, not He from us. That is why it is so important to be in close daily relationship with Christ so He keeps our sensitivity to sin sharp and are able to recognize and avoid temptation. If we are to be like children staying close to a parent or an adult we trust when in danger – we need to stay close to Him so we see and avoid danger all around us. I suspect if we could see satan and his demons, we would be terrified how many and formidable they looked but if we could also see God’s angels as well, I’m sure we would be comfortable He is protecting us. When we turn from God, we walk out from under His protection. I think the one thing some are fearful is “if we let God in, He will control us and we will be brainwashed into becoming something we would not like or want to be like”. There are countless examples of religious leaders who deceived their followers to live in communes and do strange things and even kill themselves as the Jim Jones followers. So, I can see where those fears come from – there are even false preachers that have done damage to the Christianity, but I think it is our job to show what a genuine relationship with Christ is like. We have countless examples in scripture and families / friends / community / contemporaries that give a different story. When we meet and marry a spouse, does that spouse possess us or fulfill us? Let try to see Christ the way others do and share our example and witness in a way to reach them. How do we do that? I’m working on that and pray you will too. But let’s face it – their eternal destiny depends on our willingness to do that. Fortunately, we are not alone in that work – God is with us to guide and help us along the way. He promises to do His part (the hardest part) if we do ours.

6/8/23 “Blessed Is Your Advice” 9
The name of the man was Nabal, and the name of his wife Abigail. And she was a woman of good understanding and beautiful appearance; but the man was harsh and evil in his doings.
1 Samuel 25:3

Recommended Reading 1 Samuel 25:23-33

Question: What happens when an unstoppable force meets an immovable object? Answer: A woman has to intervene.

In 1 Samuel 25, David, running for his life accompanied by a group of malcontents, sought help from a surly and stingy man named Nabal. Conflict and bloodshed seemed inevitable until Nabal’s wife, Abigail, saddled her donkey and sought out David to appeal for peace. Her measured and reasonable words prompted David to reply, “Blessed is the LORD God of Israel, who sent you this day to meet me! And blessed is your advice” (verses 32-33). One day Jesus will bring peace to the world, but until then we can take His message of peace to others and be peacemakers at home, work, and school. We can give such wise counsel that others will say, “Blessed is your advice.” Do you know an angry soul? Can you say a word to bring calmness to his or her heart and pour oil on troubled waters? “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God” (Matthew 5:9). Lord, help me be a person who speaks words that build up and not tear down.
Stormie Omartian in A Book of Prayer COMMENTS: When I read this story I am reminded of a couple of lessons. Nabal did not appreciate his wife and wisdom she offered him from God and suffered God’s judgment of death. Abigail remained faithful to him as well as to God in spite of being unequally yoked with a unbelieving husband. I think you and I know many in that situation. David is a harder person to understand. He married Michele (King Saul’s daughter) even though she was not one God had chosen for him and was unequally yoked with her. He married Abigail later after Nabal died. She likely was the wife God had intended for him. I know wealthy men and kings were permitted to marry many wives but David was called to live at a higher level of morality. Likewise, even Abigail did not satisfy him and we all know his sin with Bathseba. David knew better and the only thing in his favor was to confess and repent when confronted. How would David’s life played out if he would have waited for God’s chosen for him and remained faithful to her his entire life. The story of Absolom’s death would not have happened and Solomon could have had an Abigail as a mother and an example of a father faithful to his wife and God. Solomon would not have had many wives and concubines as well and would not have had his heart drawn to pagan gods by them. Of course, they as we are free to make wise and foolish choices and satan would have tried other ways of temping David and Solomon but these examples tell us wrong choices have consequences that can affect our children and grandchildren and others we have or could have influenced. It is sobering to think our choices do have significant affect on others either for good or evil. Above examples do tell us God does offer forgiveness for our sins and opportunities for a new start. Fortunately healing from those choices are also granted but David’s example also tell us we may not always be given a complete do over and consequences of our sins may continue in spite of our forgiveness as in the case of Absolom and David’s grief over his poor choices. It is far better to refuse to yield to temptation than to receive forgiveness for yielding. I could not live without God’s mercy and continue to be amazed at His mercy. How about you??

6/9/23 May Flowers: Victory Bouquet 10
But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.
1 Corinthians 15:57

Recommended Reading 1 John 5:3-5

Floral students at several British colleges were given a daunting assignment in the summer of 2012: help put together 4,800 victory bouquets to be presented to the medal recipients in the London Olympic and Paralympic Games. Designed by a British floral icon, the late Jane Packer, each bouquet contained four groups of English roses (yellow, orange, green, pink), 10 sprigs each of rosemary, apple mint, and wheat, and 60 sprigs of lavender — all English-grown.

To win an Olympic medal is perhaps one of history’s most coveted kinds of victory — whether gold, silver, or bronze. But the apostles made more than one reference to victory crowns in their day, especially athletic crowns, that will ultimately fade away — contrasting them with the “imperishable … crown of glory that does not fade away…” (1 Corinthians 9:25; 1 Peter 5:4). The victory over death won by Jesus Christ is the victory in which we share as His followers.
Few of us will breathe the rarified air atop an Olympic victory stand. But all it takes is faith in Jesus to participate in eternity’s greatest victory celebration. Let’s keep our chins up and our knees down — we’re on the victory side! Alan Redpath COMMENTS: Arlene and I were able to attend the Rose Parade on 1/1/13 (10+ yrs ago) and get a close-up look at floats the next morning. It was unbelievable the number of floats and work that went into each float. To see them close-up was so much more impressive than seeing them on TV. It was so evident the huge number of man-hours and cost that went into each float let alone the hundred of floats in parade. We’re so glad we took advantage of opportunity – will have memories and pictures will cherish a lifetime. That experience gives us a better appreciation of those involved in today’s devotion. I am also amazed at how hard Olympic hopefuls work to win a moment of glory and a metal, and yet all but the winner walks away empty handed. However, the experience and friendships that develop are precious to those who experience the path. I have not had the drive or ability to take that path but can only imagine what it is like. However, today’s devotion also relates this to the Christian Olympics. We are given the opportunity to participate in Christ’s Olympics. However, He offers a reward of eternal life with Him that is beyond what we can imagine. He also offers it to all who join His race and the good news is there is not just one winner. If we race with Him, He will pick us up and carry us when we are weary or weak, will sustain us and encourage us when running ourselves, and give us goals we can accomplish, and a relationship with Him along the way. How He designs a race is entirely different than the way we do or would. He enables all who enter race and keep at it to win and not just one but also races with us and helps us along the way. Since He is God, He can and does the same for everyone who participates at the same time as though they were the only one He was helping. He even enables us to encourage and help other runners along the way to join in or be strengthened to finish race as well. I’ll leave it to you to reflect on ways God has guiding you into the race and sustained you along the way. I’ll also leave it to you to reflect on ways God lovingly guides you back into the race when you wondered off the path. It is the only path we can be confident on destination – all other races we run only end up at a different destination than we expected with great disappointment.

6/10/23 Earthly Distractions 11

For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. Mark 13:8a

Recommended Reading Daniel 10:1-21

Wars and conflicts are a part of life in a fallen world. But behind those conflicts are spiritual realities and dynamics that demand our attention and our involvement. That’s the reason Jesus taught His disciples to pray for God’s kingdom to come on earth as it is in heaven (Matthew 6:10). Only when the spiritual dynamics on earth are changed will the physical dynamics between nations and people change as well.

Job 1-2 and Daniel 10 give glimpses into how spiritual realities affect life on earth. Satan likes nothing better than to stir up conflict and foment rebellion on earth. For when man is fighting against man, then man’s attention is taken away from God. When man is occupied with physical realities alone — peace between nations and individuals — then spiritual realities escape his attention. Creation’s groaning is heard in part in the cries of humans in conflict with one another (Romans 8:18-22).
It is the Christian’s duty to stay focused on heavenly citizenship and realities, to pray for the kingdom of God to be consummated on earth. Pray today for God’s kingdom to come on earth as it is in heaven. We must never settle for harmony at the expense of holiness, nor for peace at the expense of principle. John Bradford COMMENTS: We all know that satan motivates people to do evil things but seem to forget that when we are harmed. We don’t blame the gun if someone shoot and kills another. Fact is since we make our own choices, we do hold others responsible for their actions. However, if we could see how satan influences us more clearly, we may find it easier to be unforgiving of satan’s part and more forgiving of those who have chosen to allow satan to influence their actions. Granted you and I are more responsible than a non-living object used to commit a crime. However, we also need to recognize how satan masterfully manipulates you and me for his mischief. The Holy Spirit does help see satan for who he is and when he is tempting us. The Holy Spirit also helps us turn from temptation by turning to Christ. Often the best ways of keeping children from doing foolish things is distracting them with productive tasks. The old saying “idle hands are the devils tools” apply to children but also apply to us. The more we focus on Christ and our relationship with Him, the less time we have to fall into temptation. Busy people have little time for gossip but idle people may tend to thrive on gossip, as one example.

How many wars could have been avoided or marriages saved or careers blossomed or ministries thrived or lost people saved if more followed this simple truth – the more we focus and think about Him, the less time we have to think about ourselves and our selfish desires. This battle is mine as well. It is so easy to let life’s duties and tasks distract me from time with Him even now that I’m retired. Yet past experience reminds me that if I spend time with Him first in the morning, He helps guide my priorities so I use remaining time more efficiently and His influence helps me avoid many mistakes I’d otherwise make – especially w.r.t. relationships and how interact with other people. How often do we say some thoughtless words that take a lot of time to recover from. Or we miss an opportunity to say a word of encouragement to someone and later takes a lot more time to recover? I think those are the type of situations God really helps redeem the time for us especially during busy days. Reflect on this and see if your experience supports this conclusion.

6/11/23 Grant Me Wisdom 12
Who is a liar but he who denies that Jesus is the Christ? He is antichrist who denies the Father and the Son. 1 John 2:22

Recommended Reading 1 John 2:18-23

Throughout the Bible, the sacred writers warned of a coming man of lawlessness who would be history’s ultimate dictator and antichrist. The Book of Daniel says he will be a king “having fierce features, who understands sinister schemes…. He shall exalt himself in his heart. He shall destroy many in their prosperity. He shall even rise against the Prince of princes”(Daniel 8:23-25). But the apostle John makes another point: “Little children, it is the last hour; and as you have heard that the Antichrist is coming, even now many antichrists have come, by which we know that it is the last hour” (1 John 2:18). We need to be sensitive to the fact that when someone claims to have all the answers, perhaps they’re simply exalting themselves and misrepresenting their true motives, as the Antichrist will do when he comes. Let’s be as wise as serpents, asking God for wisdom to weigh the words of others. Don’t believe everything you hear, and don’t believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God (1 John 4:1). Thy Word alone true wisdom can impart; thou only canst instruct the mind. and purify the heart. George W. Doane, hymnist COMMENTS: I hope I have not been coming across as one who has all the answers (who thinks he has all the answers). Far from that but I know the One who does and am confident He longs to be with you and in relationship with you and guide you to make wise choices as well. I know that is true but must admit all too often He chooses to require work and patience from us before revealing the help we seek. It is unsettling and even depressing to consider that we may indeed be one of the “antichrists” referred to above. As I shared before, I am becoming more and more aware of how perfect God is and in doing so become more aware of how far short of that I am. You would think that awareness makes me depressed and ready to give up. However, it just makes me realize even more just how amazing God’s Grace is and how much I need to fall on His Mercies more. Amazing Grace reveals just how amazing it is the perfect God understands and forgives and continues to forgive my imperfect sinful life and doesn’t lack perfect patience with me. To learn more about those I consider those much more faithful and closer to God’s perfection like Billy Graham, or David Jeremiah, or Joni Eareckson, or Daniel in the bible, or …. (you can add those you would add), they all are quick to admit just how sinful they still are and depend on God’s Mercies still. I think that is the sign of being in relationship with Him and right with God. Yet to consider we are anti-christ or against Christ in our actions or heart, makes me like the psalmist ask Him to search my heart and reveal and help me repent from anything that displeases Him. I know that will be the case the remainder of my days on earth (and your’s too). I can judge how I live now vs 5 or 10 or 20 or 30 years ago and see if am more like Him now than then. However, such a reflection must also include gaging how I live today to Christ’s example to see how far I need to go and by seeing how impossible that is to fall on Him to pick me up and carry me on. When we are not FOR CHRIST, we are by definition AGAINST HIM. That applies as much to missing an opportunity to encourage as it does to lying or gossip or stealing or even murder. Sins are both doing what displeasing Him and not doing what pleases Him. Can you think of one day you were not guilty of one or the other? I can’t either so we’re both in that boat needing His forgiveness and help, right?? Aren’t you glad His forgiveness continues daily.

6/12/23 Fooled by Peace 13
Then h shall confirm a covenant with many for one week; but in the middle of the week He shall bring an end to sacrifice and offering.
Daniel 9:27

Recommended Reading Daniel 9:25-27

Bible scholars have speculated for centuries about the identity of the Antichrist. Some years ago, speculation swirled around Adolf Hitler and Benito Mussolini. During apostolic times, Nero was a prime suspect. Trying to identify the Antichrist is not a totally futile exercise, for we should be on our guard at all times. The names mentioned above and others are likely precursors to the future and ultimate Antichrist, as were Antiochus and Alexander the Great.

We don’t know who the Antichrist is, but one thing we do know. When he comes, he will try to imitate Jesus Christ, even to the point of appearing as a peacemaker. He will establish a peace covenant with Israel, and then break it. The human race is so desperately seeking peace that we’re vulnerable to being fooled. But there’s only one real Prince of Peace. Jesus alone can bring peace to the human heart and to the human race. Accept no substitutes. Be fooled by no imitations. [The Antichrist] is both a false Christ and against Christ. He masquerades as an angel of light only to plunge the world into spiritual darkness. Tim LaHaye COMMENTS: Tim LaHaye and Jerry Jenkins partnered on a fascinating 12 book series 7 year tribulation time based on Daniel, Matthew 24 and Revelation. Books are written in novel form thru the eyes of a few characters living thru that time. Of course, books reflect Tim and Jerry’s interpretation of scripture and wrote books based on their thoughts of how scripture will unfold during that time. I remember after reading the first book “Left Behind” I was hooked and had to acquire all 12 books and read them. I can also remember wondering if Christ would return before they finished all 12 books. I believe this series are as good and honest attempt to explain prophecies as possible but authors admit the way that time will unfold will be different than how they envision it so need to keep our eyes on scripture is vital. I have read prophecy books written during the contemporary time and was convinced that Hitler was the antichrist. Another author was convinced WW1 was end times unfolding. Some thought John Kennedy was the antichrist. Some thought Henry Kissinger was the antichrist. I even saw books with titles like “Obama – the Antichrist”. The way Nero and Antiochus are describe qualify them to be included in the short list. I remember reading a convincing book that tribulation would come by 1984 and one written in 1997 was convincing that end time would come before 2000. There was a great amount of fear 12/31/1999 that lights would all go out and devastation would come as calendar turned to 1/1/2000. It wasn’t known until happened if computers would stop and everything controlled by them would stop too. I was amazed all that come and went and seemed that even the experts were surprised nothing happened. Even my old 286 computer I bought in 1989 with Windows 3.0 continued to run without a hitch and showed the date and time correctly as did before. Scripture tells us that time will come when least suspect it but to be diligent so will not be unprepared. We are told how to do that – be faithful, seek God and follow his direction. Every generation learned God is faithful and any other path than His will result in unnecessary pain and disaster at much too high a cost.

6/13/23 Few Agonizers 14
Now therefore, our God, hear the prayer of Your servant, and his supplications, and for the Lord’s sake cause Your face to shine on Your sanctuary.
Daniel 9:17

Recommended Reading Daniel 9:17-19

In his book, Why Revival Tarries, the late preacher Leonard Ravenhill wrote of the prayerlessness of many churches. “We have many organizers, but few agonizers; many players and payers, few pray-ers; many singers, few clingers; lots of pastors, few wrestlers; many fears, few tears; much fashion, little passion; many interferers, few intercessors; many writers, but few fighters. Failing here, we fail everywhere.”

If you want to see a man of God in prayer, look at the ninth chapter of Daniel. He set his face toward the Lord to make requests by prayer and supplication in great humility and prolonged earnestness. He confessed his sins and those of his people. He pleaded for mercy, begging for God’s “face to shine” on His sanctuary. How could you improve your life of prayer? Could you take a little more time, be a little more specific, pray a little more frequently? What about devoting an entire hour to prayer, or a morning, or a day? Lord, teach us to pray. No man is greater than his prayer life. The pastor who is not praying is playing; the people who are not praying are straying. Leonard Ravenhill COMMENTS: Dr. David Jeremiah has been spending a quite a bit of time on radio sharing insights on Daniel 9 particularly. One insight was Daniel’s prayer and how it touched God’s heart but also enabled God to prepare Daniel to receipt the mighty prophecies Daniel writes of. One insight was that even though Daniel was not guilty of the sins of idolatry that most Jews were guilt of, he admitted and related to that guilt and included himself when pleaded for forgiveness for his people. Daniel did not isolate himself as guiltless and not responsible for God’s judgment but sought mercy from himself as well as his people in prayer. From age 10 (when taken as a slave into Babylon) to age 80 (length of bondage in Babylon) Daniel remained faithful to God in devotion and service and example. Daniel would pray at 3PM (time Jews were to seek God) daily without show but also without shame. He was the consistent example to fellow Jews and consistent example to pagan nation he lived in his entire life. That is what touched God’s heart and enabled Daniel to receive the revelation and strength to live a righteous life God showered on Daniel. The eternal difference Daniel did and blessing of spending eternity with those he impacted is a reward you and I can only imagine and how well worth any sacrifice we might view this side of the grave. What an encouragement Daniel’s example is to you and me to become and remain faithful our lives especially when we see no impact or difference we are making. God is responsible for the results – we are responsible for our own obedience. I am going to miss David Jeremiah’s insights on Daniel when series is completed. I haven’t gone back to tapes I have of his insights on Daniel from a few years ago, so not sure how current series compares but presume David Jeremiah has gained some more insights and sharing those he did not have then. You and I may not see the magnitude of fruit that Daniel did but if you and I spend the rest of our lives being as faithful, on the other side we will be amazed how God uses that faithfulness – in ways we won’t know or understand this side of the grave. I’m convinced that is the level of faith He want us to trust Him for. Agree?

6/14/23 Prayer, Not Despair 15
Epaphras, who is one of you, a bondservant of Christ, greets you, always laboring fervently for you in prayers, that you may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God.
Colossians 4:12

Recommended Reading Colossians 4:12-18

Epaphras is our model when it comes to praying for our children, grandchildren, or other loved ones who need a strengthening touch from the Lord. One translation renders this verse: “He is always wrestling in prayer for you, that you may stand firm in all the will of God, mature and fully assured” (NIV). Notice how he prayed — laboring fervently and wrestling. Notice what he prayed — that his friends would stand firm and complete, fully assured in the will of God. If you want to see a man of God in prayer, look at the ninth chapter of Daniel. He set his face toward the Lord to make requests by prayer and supplication in great humility and prolonged earnestness. He confessed his sins and those of his people. He pleaded for mercy, begging for God’s “face to shine” on His sanctuary. Why not adopt an Epaphras attitude toward someone on your heart. Perhaps your child or brother or friend has a problem you can’t solve. No words or actions of yours can make things better. No, but you can pray. You can wrestle in prayer. You can plead fervently, knowing the effective, fervent prayer of a righteous person avails much (James 5:16). Remember what Samuel told Israel: Moreover, as for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the LORD in ceasing to pray for you (1 Samuel 12:23).
Try prayer, not despair. Like a perspiring wrestler straining every muscle, summoning every last ounce of strength…. Epaphras prayed to the point of exhaustion. Oswald Sanders COMMENTS: This devotion speaks to me at several levels about how far I am from the mark God wants me to live at. If I look at the stamina of a 90 year old man I may be able to outwork him, but that is only because I haven’t lived 90 years yet – but do see I am not able to do at age 72 as 62 (10 yrs ago) or what I could at age 30. However, I recall our nephew, Jim Graham, an ex-marine, who replaced the roof on our house a few years ago. He would carry two bundles of shingles up a ladder and hurried me to carry ½. There was no way I had his strength or stamina. However, many years of weight lifting and hard work formed his body to be able to do it. I had not been willing or motivated to put the time and pain to gain that capability. If I compare this perspective to my relationship with Christ, I discover I am at about the same level. I have been a Christian for 62 years and should have the spiritual muscles of a Daniel but have to admit I come up short. The passion I have to reach the lost, the time I spend in prayer and longing I have to be in relationship with Christ and how faithful I am at taking opportunities God gives me during each day, as I look at the level of obedience I am at w.r.t. tithing my time and money and willingness to go where He wants or visit who God wants without reservation . As I reflect on these things and compare to level I see in others, I come to some conclusions – I can convince myself I’m more faithful than others , even some much older than me. However, I can also see many much more faithful and mature than I but much younger in years than I. I can look at Ken Hughes and see a older man but only a few years old in his Christian faith but his level of obedience and insight is much deeper as well as fruit. Therefore, I’m compelled to seek a deeper walk of obedience in prayer and service so my days are enriched and more fruitful.

6/15/23 Impact 16

Benjamin Franklin remains a household name more than two hundred years after his death. To be remembered after your death, Franklin said, you must either write things worth reading or do things worth writing about — and he seems to have done both.
Being remembered is a worthy goal, but not for reasons of fame. Instead, the legacy we leave behind for our children and others is definitely worth considering. It’s not important that people write books about us. But it is important that they be encouraged to live a good and godly life because of being touched by the life we lived. Make a positive impact on the road to new life. Discover God’s ways to impact lives for eternity . . . on Route 66. Read-Thru-the-Bible Job 21-30

COMMENTS: I think today I am going to expand on comments written yesterday. Benjamin Franklin’s statement above revealed his realization that his life was brief and a lasting legacy is what will outlive us. Yet in a deeper dive we discover not only the good and wise things he did that impacted our country and freedoms but also the sinful things he did that hindered a relationship with God that could have made his legacy much greater. Sin is a part of each of our lives – sin that may seem harmless in degree or nature but based on God’s standard sin all the same. I still feel a strong timidness or reluctance to witness to others, even in my own community and even those who live a few houses away. I can see that reluctance show up later as missed opportunities and regret that. I pray that God will both forgive and help me get past such barriers. It is strange some days and times are easier than others, but know I am not the only Christian with these battles – in fact believe most have these battles. Yet the empty pews in our church, and in most churches, as well as deterioration of our national and even community moral standard screams we are not sharing the Gospel. On 6/9/13 our pastor, Melody Kimmel, asked us to put up a sign “ come just as your are flip flops and all”. We all dressed down and were encouraged to bring someone with us. Melody’s message was strong – encouraging us to make this theme last all summer and seek ways to draw others into our church and to seek Christ. Our promise keepers lesson (6/9) related to Andrew bringing this brother Peter to Christ, Philip bringing Nathanael and how Christ responded to them (John 1:35-51). Melody even took out a tablet and pen and asked us for ideas. All this is deepening my resolve to not sit back and let someone else do the work of inviting others. Bible school is coming up when we have scores of kids every year but their families are not seen in or near the church from year to year. I am praying God shows us how to reach these families as well as those in our community in weeks ahead. I am reminded Christians in China are reaching others in an atmosphere of sever persecution. From the ‘70s the number of Christians in China have grown from a very small percent to over 20% and still growing fast. It appears the same thing is happening there as did in Roman Empire during 1^st century. If that is true, there may indeed be a time when Christianity will indeed reach the key leaders of China and be endorsed and even supported. Yet past history tells us Christianity flourished in an atmosphere of persecution and withers in an atmosphere of comfort and prosperity. This is likely why our struggles in US appear to be harder than with Christians in China. You and I don’t need to look far outside our country to realize how extravagant we live and how modestly the rest of the world lives. Summer yard sales display how much we have wasted our money on instead of just spending on necessities and freeing the tithe for God’s work.

6/16/23 Letter from Dr. David Jeremiah 17 “Scandal. Corruption. Greed. Senseless acts of evil. Driven by wealth and power. We see this kind of deception on the news every day among the world’s “leaders.”
And, I would guess that you have probably been tempted, just as I have been, to look at some of them and try to predict … Is this really the Antichrist? Are they that evil?
For centuries throughout history, many people have questioned whether rising global leaders were really the Antichrist or not. But, only God knows who the Antichrist will be and exactly when he will rise to power to deceive the world. How will it all happen? We might not be privy to all of the details … but thankfully, through Scripture, we do know some characteristics of the Antichrist.
What are some things that we should be on the look-out for? The prophet Daniel describes the Antichrist in these graphic terms: “After this I saw in the night visions, and behold, a fourth beast … And there … were eyes like the eyes of a man, and a mouth speaking pompous words … He shall speak pompous words against the Most High” (Daniel 7:7-8, 25, NKJV). As Daniel says, the coming world leader will be renowned for this kind of eloquence, which will capture the attention and admiration of the world. Daniel goes on to tell us that not only will this golden-tongued orator speak in high-blown terms, but he will also utter pompous words against the Most High. And, the apostle John describes him in a similar fashion in the Book of Revelation: “And he was given a mouth speaking great things and blasphemies” (Revelation 13:5, NKJV). Daniel continues his description of the Antichrist by telling us he is a man “whose appearance was greater than his fellows” (Daniel 7:20, NKJV). In terms of his outward appearance, this man will be a strikingly attractive person. The combination of magnetic personality, speaking ability, and extreme good looks will make him virtually irresistible to the masses. When he comes onto the scene, people will flock to him like flies to honey, and they will eagerly do anything he asks. The apostle John expands on Daniel’s description of the Antichrist’s blasphemous acts by telling us that every living person will be required to worship this man. “He was granted power to give breath to the image of the beast, that the image of the beast should both speak and cause as many as would not worship the image the beast to be killed” (Revelation 13:15, NKJV). Finally, Revelation 13:1-8 (NKJV) says the Antichrist is represented as a Beast — an appropriate title for him. During the last three-and-a-half years of the Tribulation, the Antichrist will personify Satan himself. In addition, 2 Thessalonians 2:9 (NKJV) says, “The coming of the lawless one is according to the working of Satan, with all power, signs, and lying wonders.” Step by step, the Antichrist will promote himself from a European leader, to a world leader, to a tyrannical global dictator, and finally to a god. These things are not meant to frighten you, but to help you know the truth: God is in control of your future, from beginning to end. He is the “author and finisher of our faith” (Hebrews 12:2, NKJV). And, despite whatever global challenges and intimidating circumstances may come, I hope that you’ll be encouraged by the words of Jesus: “These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world” (John 16:33, NKJV).
Christ has already won the battle. Our victory has been secured.”
God bless you,

6/17/23 Two Cans and a String 18
And she was in bitterness of soul, and prayed to the LORD and wept in anguish.
1 Samuel 1:10

Recommended Reading 1 Samuel 1:8-18

Remember playing with two cans and a string? The science behind that children’s toy really works. When you take two cans or paper cups, punch holes in the bottom of them, and stretch a string between them, you’ve recreated a primitive phone. The sound of your voice vibrates the bottom of the cup at 1,000 times a second, and the vibrations run along the string, making the bottom of the second cup vibrate with sound waves. The early telephones worked the same way, except the wires were electric. Whenever we pray, God is on the other end of the line with His ear to the cup, hearing every word and listening to every vibration of our voices. He hears even the faintest sigh. The prophet Daniel prayed regularly all his life and history was changed. The apostle Paul prayed, and cities were opened to the Gospel. Hannah prayed and God lifted her burden. If you’re in anguish or distress, you don’t need two cans and a string. Two bent knees and a broken heart will do just fine. Those persons who know the deep peace of God, the unfathomable peace that passeth all understanding, are always men and women of much prayer. R. A. Torrey COMMENTS: If read carefully Daniel 9:1-19, you will see Daniel’s heart. He admitted Israel’s sin, her king’s sin, and their parents sins to God and included himself in that list of sinners but pleaded with God to have mercy and forgive and restore them to their land and rebuild their temple to worship Him. He expressed his own love and repentance with his people. Then if read Daniel 9:20, he said while he was still praying and confessing his own sin and sins of his people, Gabriel approached Daniel, exhausted from his quick journey to Daniel. He said to Daniel that he was greatly treasured by God. He also said that when he (Daniel) began praying his request, God immediately told Gabriel to go quickly and show the vision of Israel’s future. The prophecy of the 70 weeks shared in Daniel 9 came from that visit to Daniel. Daniel was chosen by God to witness and share that vision. Daniel’s example is for us a template to follow in our walk with Christ. For Daniel prayer was not just something he did as a last resort seeking help, but a regular time of fellowship with his Creator, God, Father, and dear Friend. God had become more to him than just a judge quick to punish but also a source of life to sustain and forgive. God had revealed Himself to Daniel regularly so Daniel know and trusted God and felt comfortable talking to Him regularly and sharing his innermost thoughts with Him. That is what made Daniel especially dear to God and gave Daniel a place in God’s heart open to intervene and do a miracle. I am persuaded there is room in God’s heart for each of us to have such a place with Him if we are willing to follow Daniel’s example in our lives and prayer discipline. I think that means cleaning our hearts of the things and clutter than push God out as well as filling our heart with time reserved to fellowship with Him. I’m sure Daniel did not imagine what God was going to reveal to him but just knew he needed to be in communion with Him in order to sustain his spiritual life and relationship with God and be an example to his people as well to Babylon’s people and king. He couldn’t imagine the impact he was having in his time or in the generations to come. He couldn’t image how God was going to use him and insights God would reveal to him.

6/18/23 Sandpapering Your Fingers 19

I myself always strive to have a conscience without offense toward God and men. Acts 24:16 Occasionally in the movies we’ll see gunslingers, pickpockets, and safecrackers sandpaper their fingertips to make them more sensitive so that they can better feel the trigger of the gun, the wallet in the victim’s coat, or the tumblers in the dial of a lock. Whether this happens in real life is anyone’s guess, but it does illustrate the issue of sensitivity. When our skin becomes callused, it’s harder to feel things. Remember how tough our feet became as children running around barefoot in the summer? We could step on thistles and thorns without pain. The Bible warns against letting our conscience become callused or seared (1 Timothy 4:2). We need a tender conscience, like that of Paul who said, “Men and brethren, I have lived in all good conscience before God until this day” (Acts 23:1). The prophet Daniel gives us an example of someone who was sensitive to sin and temptation, striving to maintain a pure conscience in a pagan world. Beware a callused conscience. Learn to align your conscience to the Scriptures and keep it tender before God. The good conscience is lost in most cases, not by adopting a heretical creed, but by indulging in the pleasures of sin. William Arnot, nineteenth-century Scottish preacher COMMENTS: Having a conscience without offense towards God and men. I am pondering what that means? For me it means soul searching to reveal selfish or hurtful motives I may have that affect my thoughts or actions or even cloud good I’m working to do. Even Paul, in above verse, admits to striving but not fully accomplishing that goal. I think perfection can be defined as having a conscience without offense towards God and men. I don’t think that means everyone will like us or our actions but will not truthfully be able to say we have offended or hurt them. I think the closer we get to God, the more sensitive we become to our own sinful thoughts and actions. In otherwords, instead of judging our thoughts and actions against others, we judge against God’s standard. That makes us realize how short of the mark our best behavior is instead or becoming satisfied with ourselves by looking at those who are involved with sinful behavior that may not be our weaknesses. Daniel’s example does that even thought his example is not perfect. He judged his life against God’s standard and realized how sinful he still was. That motivated him to strive to get closer to God instead of becoming discouraged and giving up and falling deeper into sinful behavior. Daniel realized running to God as a sinner was much better than hiding from God until fealt he has changed himself first. He realized he could not change himself on his own, but he could choose to go to God to do the change needed in him. Even thought that is so true and we now have Christ to confirm that, we still 2500 years later haven’t learned that truth. We still think we dare not approach God before we change our behavior first or He’ll show His anger and punish us. We still think we can hide from God or hide our actions and thoughts from Him. We think if we turn our back to Him, He can’t see us or know what we are doing or thinking. Truth is we simply don’t want to know or hear and listen to what He is thinking, right? We fear what He will say because it will demand change in us – a choice to turn from our sinful behavior and do what He tells us. We think we will be miserable, not joyful.

6/19/23 Not My Will 20
Father, if it is Your will, take this cup away from Me; nevertheless not My will, but Yours, be done.
Luke 22:42

Recommended Reading Daniel 9:1-19

One of the hardest human challenges is to submit. It begins when toddlers learn to obey their parents when they want to say, “No!” As children of God, we live with that challenge all our life — submitting our will to the will of the Father when all we can think of is “Why?”

When the prophet Daniel was a captive in Babylon, he read from the prophet Jeremiah that Israel’s exile would last 70 years (Daniel 9:2; Jeremiah 25:11). And so Daniel turned to God in prayer to pray in accordance with the will of God. He didn’t complain or protest that Israel was in captivity. Rather, in humility, he agreed with God that Israel deserved to be there (Daniel 9:1-19). Daniel displayed humility (verse 3), worship (verse 4), confession (verses 5-15), and petition (verses 16-19). Yes, he asked for the captivity to end. But he couched his request in submission to God’s will — just as Jesus did in the most difficult moment of His life: “…not My will, but Yours, be done” (Luke 22:42). If you wish God’s will for your life were different right now, before asking for it to be different, agree with God that His will is worth submitting to. The essence of sin is arrogance; the essence of salvation is submission. Alan Redpath COMMENTS: I am afraid we see Christ’s suffering and the way the disciples died and believe if we follow Christ we will live miserable lives and die miserable. We see examples of Christians suffering and dying in other countries or Christians made fun of even here and think they are miserable so we decide not to live in that box. We don’t realize the joy and peace offered by Christ or the impact a righteous life has on others or the importance such choices will make in 100 years on the other side of the grave. Daniel didn’t really give up anything and but gained everything. Every Christian who has suffered or died for his faith say the same thing. Judas gave up eternity for 30 pieces of silver and threw it back at the priest when realized what he had done. Oh, what regrets!! Let’s reflect and see what choices we need to make or even turn from while we can. Daniel could have complained to God that he was being punished unfairly for the sins of an evil king or an evil nation. He could have just prayed for God to punish the guilty and spare him and his friends. Instead he took responsibility for his need for forgiveness as well as forgiveness for his people. The instant we start thinking we are better or more perfect than our neighbor – at that instant we start turning from God and are starting down a path of disobedience that moves us further and further away from Him. If we are honest with ourselves and notice the examples of so many around and before us, we realize that change in direction can go unnoticed by us and without a sense of guilt. That makes me fearful since that makes this sin more dangerous than those I am more apt to feel guilt for. I am also reminded just how much against my nature walking with Christ still is and how prone I still am to follow my own foolish and sinful way. When Paul said he tends to do what he shouldn’t and not do what he should, that mystery may have been on his mind and may even been the “thorn in the flesh” he referred to. Yet the lesson to us is to be keen to our own weaknesses and tendancies to sin and be on our guard to not be tempted or deceived by satan. Likewise, let them keep us humble to recognize we are not above others and in just as great a need of God’s forgiveness and help to walk on the Christian path of grace and obedience.

6/20/23 The God Who Hears 21 Behold, the LORD’s hand is not shortened, that it cannot save; nor His ear heavy, that it cannot hear.
Isaiah 59:1-3

Recommended Reading 1 John 5:14-15

Imagine a child approaching her father to ask for something. He doesn’t acknowledge the request or the presence of his daughter by his chair. In fact, he appears not to have heard the question or even be aware that she is asking.

Every feeling person recoils at such indifference. And the Bible presents the exact opposite of such a scenario when it comes to our requests before God. We are told, in the plainest of terms, to let our requests be made known to God, who is a loving Father (Matthew 7:7; Romans 8:32; Philippians 4:6-7. God may not give the answer immediately, but God hears and considers our every thoughtful prayer. He never neglects our petitions when we pray. In two cases, the prophet Daniel was told that God heard his prayers as soon as Daniel opened his mouth (Daniel 9:23; 10:12). In both situations, the answers were dispatched immediately. In one case, the answer arrived immediately; in the other, spiritual warfare delayed the answer by three weeks. When you pray, know that God hears even before you speak (Matthew 6:8). And know that His answer will not be late. Anxiety and prayer are more opposed to each other than fire and water.
J. A. Bengel COMMENTS: We know God hears us and answers in His time. Scripture gives us examples where the answer was immediate and examples when the answer was much later. Hanna’s prayer for a son went on for years but eventually had a son and Samuel became a great prophet and guide for Israel. Sarah prayed for a son but that prayer wasn’t answered until she was 90. She lived to regret her doubt in directing Abraham to have a son with Hagar because of her doubt. In contrast there are examples when answers came quickly such as when Gabriel came to Daniel, but also an example where he was delayed 3 weeks battling satan. Can you share examples when God answered your prayers quickly and times it came later. My prayer for a Christian wife took several years to be answered but I waited for that answer. Arlene was praying the same prayer. There were also times answers came quickly but usually when need was urgent. There were lots of times when I asked for God’s help at work mostly in direction and a fresh insight came shortly after that. There were also times answer was not what I asked for such as when my sister’s battle with cancer. I have to remind myself that God doesn’t need to explain Himself to anyone so I shouldn’t feel it unfair if He chooses to answer me differently. Yet our confidence is He will answer in a way in line with His will and time which is best even for me. I suppose we all, at some time, ask the question “If God knows everything and knows what we think, then why bother praying or asking?” Well, I learned the answer was we needed to pray so would be clear on what we ask for and more able to see when God answers. However, I have also realized prayer is key to the relationship God desires with us as well. We are not going to be in relationship with Him without communicating with Him and opening ourselves to receive what He wants to share with us. That may seem like a “no brainer” but how often do you and I forget that or need reminded. I am amazed how easily I’m distracted or forget to take that time of fellowship – it still is not enough of a habit to be automatic even though time with Him is sweet and fulfilling (but some days more than others).

6/21/23 Healing 22

Sometimes a family pet may stop eating and spend an unusual amount of time sleeping or resting. Our tendency is to make them better with remedies. But animals seem to know instinctively that the first thing, often the best thing, to do is to rest and wait for healing to come naturally.
I’m not suggesting that we shouldn’t take our pet to the vet — rather, that we might imitate them when we are feeling out of sorts. Instead of trying to “fix” our problem with activity, perhaps we need to rest — to grow quiet enough to hear God’s still, small voice speaking to our heart.
Find restoration on the road to new life. Discover God’s repose … on Route 66.

COMMENTS: Do you ever feel each day is only a repeat of previous day and any attempt to change it if futile, like in the movie “Groundhog Day”? All our adult working life we have a large part of each day define for employment. We have a portion of each day defined for sleep (that is the portion we tend to steal time from when we come up short). The rest is left to caring for our families and maybe church and other volunteer activites and maybe a little for ourselves and R&R. How much is left to spend with God or in outreach to our neighbors? I have to keep reminding myself even now though retired that serving Him and fellowshipping with Him and witnessing for Him are a part of entire day and blending into entire day and not intended to be carved out or separated from our day. Yes, we need to get alone and pray and study His word but most of our worship and fellowship with Him is intended to be integrated into our daily work and duties. That enables the Holy Spirit to both influence our choices and work but also guide us to witness and encourage along the path. I have learned that if I separate God from my day, I never am prepared or have time to witness and day never goes as well as it does if He is a part of it. I then spend a lot more time trying to repair the damage of poor decisions if He is not a part of my day instead of having each day build off the previous day as it should. I’ve said this before, each morning is God’s promise of an opportunity of a new beginning and each night is God’s promise of rest from the day’s work. Each morning testifies of God’s mercy and each night gives us an opportunity to seek God’s mercy.

I saw a cute cartoon that said “If God could not do it all in one day, why do you think you can?” Well, God could have but decided He wanted to enjoy the journey. Yet all we need to do is look around to realize God is still creating and involved in His creation – He still enjoys being involved… We are designed to work but also to rest and are only healthy if do both – have balance between work and rest. Another interesting observation is how both work and rest refresh us when both are in balance with each other – but either will drain us if both are out of balance either towards work or towards rest or R&R or play. I also think, if we are honest with ourselves, without God being a part of both, we will in time distort towards one or the other, motivated either from a passion to gain possessions and security or a passion to satisfy our own desires.

6/22/23 Letter from Dr. David Jeremiah – 6/8/13 23 “Never put off for tomorrow what you can do today.”
But what if you don’t have tomorrow? Though the end-times don’t always seem imminent, Christ could come back in an hour … tomorrow … next week … next year. No one knows what time the Father has appointed for the Rapture, but the time remaining is ticking by (Matthew 24:36-44, NKJV).
That is why the time we have comes with an important opportunity … It is an opportunity to become deeply engaged with people on a more personal level — a spiritual level. And it is an opportunity that can’t wait or be put off. Just as death terminates the day of possible salvation for those who reject Christ, so does the Rapture. In fact, 2 Thessalonians 2:10-12 (NKJV) gives this grim forecast for the unsaved during the coming Tribulation: “… they did not receive the love of the truth, that they might be saved. And for this reason God will send them strong delusion, that they should believe the lie, that they all may be condemned who did not believe the truth but had pleasure in unrighteousness.”
The lies the apostle Paul is referring to? Those are the ones John also foretold in Revelation 13 — the lies of the Beast and the Antichrist, who counterfeit the life of Christ and bring deception.
And those who believe the lies — all who have not accepted the Gospel before the Tribulation — will go to hell without receiving Christ as their Savior.
This is why it is so crucial for you to share the Truth with the unsaved friends and family in your life right now. The day of grace and salvation will be over all too soon … and there will not be a second chance.
But take heart, even though the time of this world is running out — you have time. You have an opportunity to share the love of Jesus Christ before it is too late.
I urge you, use the time generously given to you. Boldly proclaim the love of our gracious and merciful God. Give your friends and family who don’t know Christ every opportunity to do so.
Today is the day of salvation (2 Corinthians 6:2, NKJV). Make sure your friends and family are ready. This day. This hour. This minute. Go on — your opportunity is right now!
God bless you,

COMMENTS: God has not promised us tomorrow or even another minute of life and doesn’t owe it to us. Quite the opposite – we have been living on borrowed time and deserve judgment. God has forgiven me and given me confidence of eternal life with Him and pray you have that confidence as well. I did not earn my way there – no one has. So many think they need to clean up their lives and actions and thoughts first before come to Him for forgiveness. That is a lie and no one can do that. God wants us “Just as we are” – song the choir sang at every Billy Graham altar call. He does the clean up and change in our lives if we simply ask Him to with a heart wanting to change. It takes a lifetime walking toward the change He ultimately wants for us but have plenty of examples of in our community and our time as well as scripture and history to show us. If you have never asked Him for His Mercy, I urge you to not wait any longer. He is waiting and is only a prayer away. The question is not if He wants to forgive you. The question is if you really want Him in your life and want to change. You can’t change on your own – only hide your actions and thoughts for a time. It is much better to seek Him and let Him do genuine change in you.

6/2323 Don’t Work a Day in Your Life 24
A man’s heart plans his way, but the LORD directs his steps.
Proverbs 16:9

Recommended Reading Ephesians 2:4-10

Confucius said, “Find something you love to do and you’ll never have to work a day in your life.” When you’re doing what God wants you to do, there’s work; but there’s joy in the work. We are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do (Ephesians 2:10). When evangelist George Whitefield was going to speak to a large crowd near the end of his life, someone commented on his feebleness. He acknowledged the observation; but, clasping his hands, simply prayed: “Lord Jesus, I am weary in Thy work, but not of it. If I have not yet finished my course, let me go and speak for Thee once more.”Helen C. Knight, Lady Huntington and Her Friends (New York: American Tract Society, 1853), 208. We don’t always know the dates God has set for accomplishing His plans for us, but we know He has a perfect plan. We may grow weary in the work; but the joy of the Lord is our strength as we press on to finish our course. Press forward. Do not stop, do not linger in your journey, but strive for the mark set before you.George WhitefieldCOMMENTS: As I reflect on above devotion, I recall many examples of those who had jobs they loved and how that affected how well they did their jobs and positive attitude that rubbed off on all who crossed paths with them. Yet those who hated their jobs had a entirely different attitude and effectiveness even though were doing the same job. It is soon obvious when come across someone that is doing what they love and just as obvious with someone who doesn’t love their job. Days are long and tempers can be short when don’t enjoy what you are doing or who working with. Miserable co-workers can spoil otherwise an enjoyable and fulfilling job. As I reflect back over my working life, I have to admit I have experienced both ends of the spectrum. After school I was excited and put a lot of energy into the job and was excited about every job was able finish well and really neat to see my designs show up on machines. Made me proud and fulfilled. However, when those designs had problems, was another story and dreaded those times and especially the hardships they created with hard working miners. I quickly learned how important it was to develop trust and partnerships with others so could rely on others to improve those designs. I also learned that the relationships developed were even more important than the work that was done, but the work was a path to those relationships. I also learned my faith enabled me to partner with “The Great Designer” as well. Once I learned those lessons and drew close to Christ, the more fulfilled and enjoyment I was able to experience with my job but also with those I worked with and interacted with – even those less lovable than others. I can remember days I wished I could retire or find another career. About 10 years into my career I sought God for a calling into pastorate – thinking the energy and time I was investing into building mining equipment wasn’t as important as trying to win others to Christ. Well, my answer was if I can’t serve Him at Joy, why do I think I could serve Him as a pastor? I started to realize God was putting folks in my path thru work I would otherwise never cross paths with. That realization helped me gain the joy and fulfillment I was seeking and enabled me to see the opportunities sought. If you experiences are like mine, hill top experiences are all too brief and valleys, though brief, seem way too long but God has been faithful thru both experiences. The key to enjoying our work is having a close relationship with Christ!

6/24/23 483 Years 25 And after the sixty-two weeks Messiah shall be cut off, but not for Himself….
Daniel 9:26

Recommended Reading Daniel 9:20-27

In the days of Daniel, Jerusalem lay in ruins, having been destroyed by Babylon in 586 B.C. But Daniel 9:20-27 predicted a decree to rebuild the city, and the issuing of that decree would trigger a timeline — seven periods of seven years, followed by sixty-two periods of seven years, at the end of which the Messiah would be “cut off.” Do the math: 7 x 7 = 49; and 62 x 7 = 434. Add 49 to 434, and you get 483 years.
Daniel predicted that 483 years after the decree for rebuilding Jerusalem, the Messiah would come into Jerusalem and be put to death. There are several ways of calculating this. They vary in detail, but here’s the simplicity of it: The order to rebuild Jerusalem was issued by King Artaxerxes in the Book of Nehemiah. And 483 years later, Jesus Christ entered Jerusalem and was crucified exactly when Daniel had predicted. If the Lord knows history’s timeline, don’t you think you can trust Him with yours? You can say with Psalm 31:15: “My times are in Your hand.” Psalm 22 vividly describes how Christ would die… Isaiah 53 describes why Christ would die… (Daniel 9) adds to this verse by identifying when Christ would die. Bill Jones

COMMENTS: David Jeremiah’s series on Daniel has been very enlightening. He shared that the clock predicting Christ started when King Xerxes gave ok to rebuild city when was 20 yrs into his reign (Neh. 2:1) or in March of 445 BC. Based on that passage and Daniel 9, 483 yrs later Christ would be cut off (38 AD). There is conflicting calculations on what year Christ was born, but most think He was born in 4 B.C. However, this appears to be the most accurate way of calculating year of Christ’s crucifixion and since He was 33, would give a different date for His birth. However, it really doesn’t matter. What does is knowing how accurate Daniel’s prophecies have proven to be and will continue to be since they came directly from God. If we truly believe that and take to heart the remaining prophecies to be fulfilled, we are motivated to get right with Christ and live trying to help others to get right too. That doesn’t mean storing up food and guns in a bunker but persuading others to accept Christ before that time. To be a prisoner in a bunker killing anyone who comes to you door would be a horrible way to live anyway, right? I would hate to be tempted to kill in order to protect my possessions let along a few crumbs of bread anyway. That is the opposite what Christ instructed us to do, right? I am convinced born again Christians will be spared the tribulation time, but that terrible time will be reserved as God’s judgment for those who did not choose Him before. However, I do believe it will be more difficult to accept Him then but the Gospel will be shared and people will accept Him. An additional constraint will be no one who receives the mark will be able (or maybe willing) to receive forgiveness and God’s mercy. Yet the suffering will be horrific from what we are told. Satan will be able to do his mischief without restraint. With what he was able to do during WWII and in China in years past and in many other countries today you and I can’t image the magnitude of what he will do without God’s restraining hand. It motivates me to make sure I’m ready for His coming, how about you??? Well, how do we get past our fears and hang-ups and be the evangelists we should. How do we become to God’s leading instead of holding back by being timid or going ahead of Him? I’m working on that one but tend to be too timid instead of too bold, but that’s me but can see I’m not alone…

6/25/23 Safety in Christ 26
Because you have kept My command to persevere, I also will keep you from the hour of trial which shall come upon the whole world, to test those who dwell on the earth.
Revelation 3:10

Recommended Reading 1 Thessalonians 4:15-18

When young recruits go through military basic training, slogging through the rain and mud, they are reminded, “You can do anything for eight weeks!” The promise of an end to travails gives strength and hope to carry on. Like a prophetic calendar, Daniel’s vision of 70 weeks was like a chronology of hope (Daniel 9:24-27). Strangely, the last seven-year week held the promise not of consolation but of trouble and trial. A great abomination would occur in Jerusalem’s temple (Daniel 9:27). It turns out, the seventieth week is the climax of the period known by Jeremiah as “the time of Jacob’s trouble” (Jeremiah 30:7) — a time of judgment and cleansing in Israel and the world. We know that period as the Great Tribulation. Fortunately, those in the body of Christ will not undergo that week of judgment. They will have been removed from earth by Christ at the Rapture. The full revelation of Scripture assures Christians that their destiny is not judgment but salvation and safety in Christ. We may with the greatest assurance depend upon God for the safety of His church. Matthew Henry Comments: I am not entirely convinced there wouldn’t be a portion Christians would face as persecution. However, David Jeremiah’s research and studies have reinforced my hope we will be entirely spared of the entire 7 year period. Yet, the suffering Christians still face and have faced in history still give me reason to believe we will face increasing intensity of suffering in years ahead, but do believe it will get worse as our world turns further and further away from God as we approach that period. Our Western Pa. United Methodist Church annual conference June 12-16 had a theme “Disciples Making Disciples”. Bishop Thomas Bickerton was impressing on conference’s clergy and laity how vital it is for us to draw others to Christ and guide them to become disciples too. In one service, Bishop invited the pastor of St. John United Methodist Church in Houston, Texas to speak. Rev. Rudy Rasmus shared how his church has blossomed. It had 9 in congregation all over 75 yr old and a 100 yr. old building when Rudy became pastor in 1992. Rudy grew up with his Christian mother taking him to church but turned away from God as a teen and young adult – helping his dad in a drug business. His salvation came out of being discipled by his future wife, Juanita. The early ministry focused on homeless and needy in the community and attendance exploded within 2 years to 1000. Now congregation is over 9000 with 1/3 of congregation previously homeless but many still homeless. Outreach and growth is still increasing. You can see information at “www.stjohnsdowntown.org”. What Rudy shared while at our conference was people don’t want to know our theology or doctrine or what fund risers we are having or how much money we need to get to keep our door open. What they want to know is that we love them as they are without conditions. He also said we need to change from ministering to poor to ministering with the poor (partner with them and get them involved from beginning). Rudy said we need to get back to being the beggar showing other beggars to the source of food. He closed the service saying his dad came to his church and accepted Christ at the altar at age 70. If Cross is big enough for him and his dad, it is big enough for all sinners including homeless and even the greatest sinners. Message impacted me and entire assembly of over 2000.

6/26/23 Love and Trouble 27
Therefore when you see the “abomination of desolation,” spoken of by Daniel the prophet, standing in the holy place (whoever reads, let him understand). . . .
Matthew 24:15

Recommended Reading Daniel 11:31

The most common complaint against the notion of a loving God is that such a God would not allow the suffering and trouble seen in the world. Trouble in the world doesn’t mean God is not good or powerful. Rather, it means God has reasons and plans that may not be plain to us. When Joseph went through trouble in his life, he recognized that God had a greater purpose, one that resulted in good for his whole family (Genesis 50:19-21). And the apostle who endured tremendous trouble and suffering for the sake of Christ is the same apostle who wrote that “all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose” (Romans 8:28). That purpose, Paul wrote, is “to be conformed to the image of His Son” (Romans 8:29). Just as God has a purpose for individuals, God has a purpose for the world — that it might reflect His goodness and beauty. When you see God’s world marred by sin, never forget that God’s purposes are always at work and will be fulfilled. The work which His goodness began, the arm of His strength will complete.Augustus M. Toplady COMMENTS: This year’s theme at UMC annual conference was “Disciples making Disciples”. Rev. Rudy Rasmus gave three powerful messages relating to loving people just as they are and pointing them to Christ who is responsible for changes. Conference is a good time, over 2000 pastors and laity together with focus of learning and sharing Christ. Campus is beautiful – landscaping, building, construction all give a beautiful backdrop. Walking the campus has been refreshing and drawed me closer to God as well. Focus for week is drew me into a deeper reflection of how I need to step up the effort sharing my faith and drawing others into fellowship with Him as well. All indications are that our time on earth is drawing to a close and end time prophecy is on the verge of being fulfilled. As I reflect on evidence of that I even see in our local communities, I can see a much greater resistance to visit our churches and a greater lack of understanding of the gospel and who Christ is. My parents generation still had a strong moral code giving them a sense of right and wrong even for those who had no profession of faith. My generation knew that moral code but more openly denied and rebelled against that code. Going to church started becoming less popular and reverenced. My children’s generation have gone further down that road and lost much of that moral code or sense of right and wrong. Their children’s generation are even further down that road and are entirely ignorance of gospel of Christ – what scripture teached – even commandments basic to guiding daily living are not known commonly. Therefore, right and wrong is taught in our schools, and believe in many families, to be relative and not gaged against any standard, especially God’s. All this makes me very concerned and convinced we are living in the time when Daniel’s final prophecies will be fulfilled. What do you and I need to do in the meantime. We need to become bolder in our witness and making our lives more evident of the grace and hope Christ gives us. Our church had Sunday worship attended by 80 consistently 25 years ago and Sunday school had 50. Now we have 10 in church and 7 in Sunday school and only one adult class and no children’s classes. Rankin and Peter’s are also down 50% and have attendance of 7-12 for Sunday morning worship. Yet, our examples are common in every community.

6/27/23 Set Your Heart 28 Then 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.”
Daniel 10:12a

Recommended Reading Matthew 26:36-46

Many things tell a lot about a person: how he spends his money and what she does with her free time. What a person does when pressured or burdened may say the most since burdens are something we want to escape. Where we turn with our troubles reveals who or what we think is able to deliver us.

Great characters in Scripture always turned to God. Hannah cried out to God (1 Samuel 1:10). David petitioned the Lord (Psalm 34:4). Paul called on God over and over (2 Corinthians 12:8). And Jesus stayed in the presence of the Father seeking understanding of the trial He faced (Matthew 26:39). Daniel did the same, and the phrase used to describe his attitude characterizes all who see God as their first stop in times of confusion: Daniel “set [his] heart to understand” (Daniel 10:12). In that phrase is a sense of commitment and perseverance. There is no desire for a quick answer but rather for a heart that understands. If you have questions today, set your heart before God to gain His understanding. The Christian faith is ultimately not only a matter of doctrine or understanding or of intellect, it is a condition of the heart. D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones in Studies in the Sermon on the Mount

COMMENTS: Today’s devotion gives us an insight into the hearts of some faithful Jews and early Christians and what it was about their hearts that impressed and touched God’s heart. Notice the answer to that question in Daniel 10:12a. God loves the heart of one who seeks to know and understand Him and humbles himself before Him. Do you see the difference of humbly seeking God and believing He’ll do what we ask if we have enough faith? In the case of Daniel, there were times he pleaded with God out of a sense of urgency but always out of a humble heart trusting God’s will and wisdom was far above his will and wisdom. When we pray seeking help from God, you and I need to remind ourselves the freedom to seek him in prayer opening our hearts and asking what we will has a greater impact if we stay open and submissive to His wisdom and will. Daniel, in the lion’s den or his 3 friends in the fiery furnace am sure were deep in prayer in days prior to and especially while being thrown into the den or furnace. They couldn’t understand why God delivered them out of the den and furnace instead of from them. Yet he still delivered them and how much more powerful the stories are for us because God chose deliverance to be out of these places and not from them. I am grateful God has delivered me from much more than He has out of. Am sure your experience is comparable, right? I am so glad I can seek Him both with a true heart as well as a sinful heart knowing He will graciously help and lead me and answer me either time. However, honesty is vital – let’s face it we are fooling ourselves if we think we can fool God. Yet, if we are honest with God, He is free to show and guide us to a greater understanding of His will as well as His answers. I keep coming back to realization God is passionate about having a relationship with each of us and His will is tied directly to that passion. This realization makes me want to embrace more time with Him daily and to seek knowing His heart more deeply and not just to treat Him as a child making a wish list for santa clause.

6/28/23 Repetition 29 You and I have forgotten a lot that we used to know. Perhaps it is an algebraic formula from a math class, or a telephone number, or the words of a hymn. The saying is definitely true, “Out of sight, out of mind.” We eventually forget those things we stop using.
The author of Psalm 119 said that he continually set God’s judgments before him so he could walk in them. And he used the nighttime hours, watching the sheep, as a way to meditate on God’s Word. In order to know and remember the truth of God’s Word, we must continually keep it before us.
Persistently study the Bible on the road to new life. Discover God’s promises through the study of His Word . . . on Route 66.

COMMENTS: Psalm 119 is 176 verses long, the longest Psalm. It reflect the words of a person that has had a long relationship with God and reflects how God has heard him and responded to his prayers in past and how faithful God has been to him. The Psalms give us a window into the heart and relationship of writer(s) and how time has enabled them to trust God completely based on past experiences and ways God has spared / protected / helped them in past. It is easy for you and me to forget as time passes and as new problems or dangers or sicknesses or life problems come crashing down on us – whether they are a result of mistakes or sins we’ve done or outside our control. How you and I react to and deal with crisis situations speaks volumes to those who know us and may be affected by our example. I also believe we prepare ourselves for life’s crisis by daily practicing prayer and fellowship and praise with our Lord. Daniel tells us he daily fellowshipped with God, which was what caused him to be sentenced to death in lion’s den. Yet that very act gave him the strength to face the lion’s den. If he would have hid his faith, he might have spared this test, but he would have missed seeing God’s miracle and we would have missed that lesson for our lives too. We can see prayer as an insurance policy to protect us against future crisis, but since God knows we desperately need a daily relationship with Him or will forget and wander back on a dangerous and sinful path, His passion to go 99% of the way to meet us daily is vital to us. Yet our relationship with Him will truly blossom once we realize our worship and fellowship with Him is “All about Him and not about ourselves”. I’m still working on learning that but have grasped enough to see the impact my attitude towards Him has on my Christian walk. Let’s face it, God doesn’t owe us anything but we owe our souls to Him – so if He asks us to suffer a bit or do some things we don’t like, what do we have to complain about – we are still getting a deal far better than we deserve. Even the worst suffering we can imagine falls short of punishment God spared us or punishment we could face if we turned from Him, right??

6/29/23 333 30
Call to Me, and I will answer you, and show you great and mighty things, which you do not know. Jeremiah 33:3

Recommended Reading Jeremiah 33:1-3

When pastor and author Robert J. Morgan was visiting Vietnam, he met an aged pastor who had been imprisoned for his faith in earlier days. “My two 333s got me through the experience,” said the man. “The first was Jeremiah 33:3: ‘Call to Me, and I will answer you….‘ The other was Number 333 in the Vietnamese hymnbook.” When asked the name of the hymn, the man couldn’t think how to say it in English, so he started singing it. Instantly Pastor Morgan recognized the tune: “Face to face with Christ my Savior.” Sometimes when we pray, the answers don’t come exactly when or as we’d like. But we should keep on praying and singing, for God will be faithful to our 333s and to all the other verses and songs He gives us. If you have questions today, set your heart before God to gain His understanding. Face to face I shall behold Him, far beyond the starry sky; face to face in all His glory, I shall see Him by and by! Carrie E. Breck

COMMENTS: This is a powerful verse and is meaningful for me that David Jeremiah decided to make this verse the theme for today’s devotion. After Arlene and I were married we covenanted to go to her home church, Franklin Free Methodist Church, as much as we could but make Clintonville Grace UMC our family church. During later ‘70’s and early’80’s Rev. Jack Ruggles was the pastor there with his wife, Ellie at Franklin FMC. They made such an impact on our lives and loved the loving way they ministered and messages Jack shared. Jack also had a wonderful base voice and even sang at our wedding. If some of you have CD of our wedding, will hear the voice of Arlene’s dad, voice of Sam Shreffler (our brother-in-law) who conducted service and Jack Ruggles singing.

Anyway, Jack shared this verse one day on a card with us. I treasured that card for many years and that verse became a life verse for me. The power of that promise spurred me deeper into scripture and prayer and, as a result, deeper into the relationship with Him I needed and He desired for me. This verse also was fulfilled in Daniel’s life. It is evident Daniel knew truth behind this verse and followed it’s direction – the result was amazing things God revealed to Daniel as a result. Daniel was very serious about spending time in prayer as an instrument of communion and communication with God and took advantage of privilege many times during day. I am afraid most of us and me especially, consider prayer only when convenient or when have idle time with “nothing better to do”. So, today’s devotion reminds me and spurs me to step up the time and value and passion I commit to communing with Him in prayer. You know, spending time with Him is more important than what I pray about. Well, guess what? God has some things He wants to talk to us about and you and I probably don’t have a clue what it is so planning and focusing only on what we feel is important is closing our ears to what is on God’s agenda during our time with Him, right? Well, generating passion desired in prayer is something you and me just can’t as weak humans generate for very long or consistently. So, what do we do in order to do better? I think one thing is to look closer at how Daniel did it. He just kept doing it and giving God a chance to speak to his heart each time he prayed. Conversation with God developed and passion Daniel experience and later the revelations he received were as his relationship and time with God matured.

6/30/23 Too Busy to Pray? 31 He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. He restores my soul.
Psalm 23:2-3a

Recommended Reading John 14:1-6

As far as we can tell, earth still spins at exactly the same speed as when King David wrote Psalm 23 and when Jesus said, “Let not your heart be troubled.” But it surely seems to have sped up for most of us. Instead of long walks into town, we jump in our cars and fight the traffic. Instead of slow cruises across the Atlantic, we take flights of six jet-lagged hours. Rather than going to bed at sunset, we work into the night and deprive ourselves of sleep. It’s better to be busy than bored; but being too busy to pray is a clear indication our schedule is no longer under the Holy Spirit’s control. Jesus interspersed periods of intense activity with seasons of withdrawal, carefully guarding His spiritual and emotional well-being.
If you’re rushed at prayer, something’s wrong. Stop a moment, figure out how you can again enjoy your necessary daily time with the Lord, and let Him restore your soul. Beware the barrenness of busyness. Most of us are far too busy for our own spiritual good. Bill Hybels

COMMENTS: When David was inspired by God to write this psalm, did he have any idea it would be so important to Christians 3000 yrs later? God has a way of helping us in ways that will ripple beyond just us. This psalm shows us how David’s past as a shepherd as a boy and how God helped and protected him during those years was proof He would continue helping him even during the years being pursued by King Saul against terrible odds. David had God’s promise he would be king but King Saul and all his armies were looking for David with intent to kill him. This went on for 7 years before Saul was killed in battle. These words reminded David God will keep His promises and will use times of trial and suffering to build our faith and to accomplish His Will and Plan. David needed reminded of that truth often and so do we. I can imagine David repeating this Psalm often during those years but forgot them during his fall with Bathsheba – oh what suffering he faced because he didn’t reflect on Psalm 23 during good times as much as he did during dangerous times. How do we avoid the same trap unless we develop habits we are determined to especially when we think we no longer need them. You and I need to keep reminding ourselves to establish good habits of prayer and devotion and worship we will keep even more earnestly when we think we don’t have the need or time to maintain them. The great part of Psalm 23 and the Lord’s Prayer and John 3:16 is we have them in our memories so are available to us all the time when a bible is not near. Just these words are enough to sustain us during times of great temptation and prepare us for prayer for help and direction from God. Think about examples of that from your own life. I have thought of several, but will choose another time to share some of them if God reminds me. On another note, David Jeremiah’s radio program on study of Daniel was especially interesting so included it in today’s comments: Daniel 11 – vs 3 describes Alexander the Great who conquered world at age 33 and died drunk at zenith of his career. Kingdom was divided in 4 parts – written 200 yrs earlier by Daniel. Kingdom was divided by his 4 generals. One of the generals had Egypt (south) and other had Syria (north) . Verses 5-20 gives prophecies of king of south (Egypt) and king of north (Syria) fighting each other and Israel in the middle being ravaged by each trying to get to defeat other. Could you imagine being Daniel and receiving such revelations from God or attempting to put them down in writing? Such a responsibility but privilege.