Twenty-one days of daily Bible-based devotional
thoughts published in Come Ye Apart
Be blessed by thoughts drawn from 2 Chronicles, Job, Isaiah,
Jonah, Mark, Romans, 1 Corinthians, Ephesians, and Hebrews.
Topics include sin, prayer, service, human inadequacies, Satan's limits, and God's enabling
power.
For your daily devotions
These devotional reflections appeared in the Come Ye
Apart devotional quarterly (now titled Reflecting God).
Week 1
Monday
"God has the power to help or to overthrow." (2 Chronicles 25:8, NIV)
God's unlimited resources
King Amaziah was desperate. As he prepared for war
against the Edomites, he began to fear that his Judean army would not be strong enough. So he
hired 100,000 Israelites to fight alongside his soldiers. After he had given these mercenaries
some money, a prophet arrived to caution the king that he had sought help in the wrong place.
The king was told that he should depend on the Lord God instead of on apostate
mercenaries.
Amaziah did not always listen to men of God. But this time, he did. And the victory was
his.
Sadly, God's people still repeat Amaziah's mistakes. Facing mountainous personal, family,
and even church problems, we sometimes decide that our resources are too limited. So we
succumb to the temptation to look for help in the wrong places. It's good to remember the
prophet's words to Amaziah: God's resources are unlimited. Count on Him.
My Haitian friends are fond of saying: "Bondye kapab."
Translated, this means: "God is able." And indeed He is. Let's trust Him. [
e-book on Haiti ]
Reflection questions
What are some familiar "wrong places" that people tend to look for help when facing
personal, family, or church problems?
In what ways can we cultivate a greater trust in God's ability to help us face challenging
situations?
Takeaways from 2 Chronicles 25:8
Reliance on God: 2 Chronicldes 25:8 emphasizes
the importance of relying on God rather than human strength or military might. It suggests that
victory and success come from God rather than from human effort.
God's Sovereignty: The verse highlights God's
ultimate control over outcomes. In acknowledging that God has the power to grant victory or to
cause defeat, we are reminded of God's sovereignty and authority over all situations.
Obedience and Consequences: The context of 2 Chronicles 25:8 involves King Amaziah hiring mercenaries from Israel. That was against God's will. The prophet warns Amaziah that going into battle with these hired troops will lead to failure. It is a clear illustration that disobeying God can lead to negative consequences.
Encouragement to Trust: While 2 Chronicles 25:8 warns against disobedience, the
verse also contains encouragement. By stating "God has the power to help," it reassures that
trusting and obeying God brings His support and aid.
In Romans 9, Paul recounts God's dealings with His chosen people, Israel. Then, as
he finishes talking about God's workings in history, Paul bursts forth into spontaneous adoration
with the beautiful words of Romans 11:33-36.
I've seen the same kind of awe on the faces of Nazarene Missions Team members
[ mission trip resources ]. As they've
given praise in dedication services for buildings they've built with their own hands, they've
suddenly caught a glimpse of the way God has been at work in their lives and in the lives of the
people whose church building they came to help construct. What may have seemed a series of
disconnected events suddenly revealed a designer at work as people saw the wise hand of God at
work. Caught up in praise and adoration, they've turned their faces to heaven with tears streaming
down their faces.
I've seen it happen at Nazarene General Assemblies. People gathered from all over the world
suddenly become conscious of God's wise workings in beautiful ways through their
denomination, the Church of the
Nazarene. Overcome with adoration, they've begun to praise God and raise their
arms.
We used to sing a chorus with the words "Isn't He wonderful wonderful wonderful? Isn't
Jesus my Lord wonderful?" He really is. Praise His name.
Reflection questions
How does recognizing God's inexhaustible resources, wisdom, and knowledge shape
our perception of events and experiences?
In what ways can understanding God's wise workings in history and in our lives deepen our
attitudes of adoration and praise of Him?
How does the recognition of God's wisdom and work in the world influence our perspective
on the Church and our denomination, and how can it inspire us to express our praise?
Our Takeaways from Romans 11:33
Romans 11:33 is part of a doxology, a moment of praise to God, and it encapsulates several
profound takeaways for believers. They include:
God's Infinite Riches: Paul speaks of the "depth of
the riches" of God. By that, he means the boundless grace, mercy, and blessings that
God bestows upon humanity. This should encourage us to trust in God's provision and
generosity.
God's Wisdom: The mention of God's wisdom
reminds us that His understanding and plans are far beyond our comprehension. God's wisdom
governs the universe. Even when His plans are not clear to us, they are perfect and for the
ultimate good.
God's Knowledge: God's knowledge encompasses
everything past, present, and future. He knows all things. That includes the deepest thoughts and
needs of every person. We can rest assured that God is fully aware of our situations and is
orchestrating events according to His perfect knowledge.
Unsearchable Judgments: The phrase "how
unsearchable are his judgments" implies that God's decisions and decrees are beyond human
scrutiny. We are therefore called to trust in God's justice and righteousness, even when we do not
understand His judgments.
Inscrutable Ways: God's ways are described as
"inscrutable," meaning they cannot be fully understood or traced. This should teach us humility
since we cannot always grasp God's methods or reasons. Instead of relying solely on
our own understanding, we need to have faith in God's sovereign and mysterious ways.
Humility and Reverence: Romans 11:33
should foster in us a sense of awe and reverence for God. The verse calls us to approach God
with humility, acknowledging His greatness and our limited understanding. This humility is
crucial for a healthy relationship with God. It should lead us to greater dependence on Him.
Encouragement to Praise: Finally, Romans 11:33 encourages us to praise God.
Recognizing the vastness of His riches, wisdom, and knowledge should naturally lead to worship
and adoration.
In short, Romans 11:33 is a profound declaration of God's immeasurable attributes. It
encourages us to trust in His wisdom, knowledge, and judgments. We must respond with
humility, reverence, and a heart of worship.
Wednesday
"'All we have here,' they said, 'are five loaves and two fishes"' -- Matthew 14:17,
NEB
Our human inadequacies
Five thousand people, and they were all hungry. When Jesus told His disciples to feed the
crowd, all they could come up with were five biscuits and two sardines. Acutely conscious of
how inadequate that would be, the disciples went to Jesus. He took what they had and
transformed it into abundance.
He's still doing that. For example, some people think cross-cultural missionaries are
superheroes of the faith with extraordinary spiritual resources. While we were serving as
missionaries, an American lady told me: "I could never do what you're doing. You're a better Christian than I
am."
While troubled by her inadequacies, she had mistakenly put me on a pedestal. Actually, I'm
just as inadequate as she felt. Alas, in front of life's enormous problems, we are all merely
five-loaves-and-two-fish people. However, that's also good news. Like the little boy mentioned in
John's account of the story, we can give Jesus what we have. However inadequate it may seem,
He will make it sufficient. God has the ability to take little and make much of it. Let's trust Him.
Reflection questions
How can the story of the five loaves and two fishes illustrate human inadequacies and
what Jesus can do to transform them into abundance?
Are there ways that we perceive others as more capable or spiritually superior,
underestimating our potential? How can we overcome this mindset?
What might the story of the boy offering his small lunch to Jesus teach us about the
importance of giving what we have, no matter how inadequate it may seem, and trusting in God's
ability to multiply and make it sufficient?
What were Jesus' disciples expressing by saying "We only have . . ." in
Matthew 14:17?
What feelings prompted the response of Jesus' disciples in Matthew 14:17?
Literal Thinking: Were the disciples just thinking in
practical, literal terms? Were they tightly focused on the tangible, immediate reality of the
situation -- a small amount of food versus a large number of people? Thus, the statement may
have simply expressed the practical limitations they faced..
Concern and Helplessness: Were the disciples expressing concern and helplessness?
Recognizing the gravity of the need (feeding thousands of people), did they feel a need to express
their inability to do what Jesus asked?
Thursday
"Take courage. It is I. Don't be afraid." (Matthew 14:27, NIV)
Taking courage
As the disciples sailed across Lake Galilee, they were suddenly engulfed by a storm. With
their little fishing boat bobbing up and down in the waves, they became terrified when they saw
something moving toward them on the water. Then the seeming apparition spoke. It was Jesus.
"Take courage. It is I," He said. Jesus' presence immediately chased away their anxiety and
distress. (Matthew 14:25-33)
One day, I encountered Pastor Odius Merzilus while driving down a dusty Haitian road. This 35-year veteran
of the ministry was trudging up to a mountain village where he was trying to plant a new church. I stopped my jeep. We
talked a bit about the lack of rain. We talked about the malnourished kids coming to his school. We talked about the persecution some of his people were encountering at the hands of voodoo followers. Then, our talk turned to the Lord and what He was doing in our lives. As I drove away, Odius' face crinkled into a smile. "Take courage," he shouted as he waved goodbye. [ e-book on missions in Haiti ]
In the desperate situations of life, we need to be wary of trusting our senses. We need to
look up. He is there. In life's anxious moments, we need to listen for His voice: "It is I. Do
not be afraid."
We need not fear even the worst storms of life. For we are in the hands of Him who is Victor
and Master over all.
What lessons does the story of Jesus walking on water and calming the disciples' fears
have for us when we are fearful and anxious?
When circumstances overwhelm us, what steps should we take to find courage and
reassurance?
How would you describe to someone what it means to trust in Jesus as the Victor and Master
over everything? How can this understanding give confidence and faith to Christ-followers
facing the storms of life?
Lessons from Matthew 14:27
Faith in Difficult Times: Jesus' presence and
reassuring voice can be a source of strength and courage when the storms of life engulf
us. Matthew 14:27 can remind us that we, too, are not alone as we face challenging situations.
Overcoming Fear: Jesus' words "Don't be afraid"
challenge us to confront our fears with faith. Fear can be paralyzing. With trust in Jesus, we can
face and overcome the things that scare us.
Recognizing Divine Presence: Jesus' words, "It is
I" can encourage us to recognize God's daily divine presence. That awareness can bring
peace and assurance. It can help us to stay grounded and calm even in chaotic circumstances.
Taking Initiative and Courage: The two words "Take
courage" is a call to be proactive in the face of fear and uncertainty. We can trust God to give us
the support we need.
Trust Beyond Understanding: The scene in which Jesus walked on water defies natural understanding. This episode called us to trust in God when situations are beyond our understanding.
Reassurance and Comfort: Jesus' words were meant to reassure and comfort His disciples. When people in our lives are in times of anxiety or distress, let's follow Jesus' example and provide them with reassurance and comfort.
Friday
"The Lord said . . . 'Should I not be concerned about that great city of Nineveh?'" (Jonah
4:11, NIV)
The disease of prejudice
The Lord tried to use Jonah in cross-cultural missionary outreach. However, Jonah's
prejudices against foreigners and his lack of love for them made him endure the experience rather
than enjoy it.
At the end of the biblical account, Jonah sits overlooking the city God had just saved. Jonah's actions and words do not indicate that there was a lump of sadness in his throat as he preached. There were no tears in his eyes.
Apparently exasperated at His prophet, God asks Jonah: "Are not people important?"
"Not these Ninevites," Jonah seems to reply.
His own prejudices had distorted the truth, created barriers, and prohibited him from seeing the
Ninevites with God's eyes. Clearly, Jonah didn't care at all for the people he had just preached to.
Furthermore, it seemed distasteful to him to think that God would care for them. It was a tragic
moment in salvation history.
God continues to lay great missionary opportunities before His people today. Let us not be
guilty of Jonah's selfish callousness or of using his perverted narrow-minded scale of values. Let
us allow the Holy Spirit to demolish those walls of division created by prejudice. [ Jonah, the reluctant missionary ]
Reflection questions
How did Jonah's prejudices against foreigners and lack of love for them hinder his
missionary outreach efforts in Nineveh? What were the consequences of his attitudes and
actions?
In what ways might Jonah's prejudices have distorted the truth and created barriers between
himself and the Ninevites? How did this prevent him from seeing them with God's eyes and
caring for their salvation?
How can we guard against selfish callousness and narrow-mindedness like Jonah's? What
role does the Holy Spirit play in breaking down walls of division created by prejudice?
Takeaways from what God said in Jonah 4:11
God's Compassion: God expressed compassion and
concern for the people of Nineveh despite their sins. That should remind us of God's desire for
repentance and redemption rather than immediate judgment.
Humanity's Ignorance: The mention of those who
cannot discern their right hand from their left has been thought of as symbolic of moral ignorance
or, alternatively, as a reference to the innocence of children. It could suggest that many people in
Nineveh were unaware of the gravity of their actions. If that is the meaning, then it could be a
call for mercy and understanding.
Value of Life: God's concern extended not only to
the human population pf Nineveh but also to livestock. This underscores the value God places on
all life, including animals. It also highlights the interconnectedness of creation.
A Lesson in Forgiveness: Through His words recorded in Jonah 4:11, God teaches
Jonah -- and us -- a lesson in forgiveness and the importance of extending grace to those we
consider undeserving. It challenges us to overcome prejudice and premature judgments and
embrace God's mercy.
Overall, Jonah 4:11 serves as a reminder of God's boundless compassion, the importance of
understanding and forgiveness, and the value of all life.
"You are my servant in whom I will display my splendor" (Isaiah 49:3, NIV)
God's splendor displayed
The first verses of Isaiah 49 form one of the great
"servant" passages of Isaiah. Here, Isaiah shouts his vision of the exalted and glorified Christ. He
had seen that the great light emanating from God was to be focused with brilliant intensity on a
coming Son and Servant whom we know today as Jesus Christ.
Isaiah shouted this message not just to the Jews, but to the islands of the sea, to distant
nations. This message of a Servant in whom was displayed the splendor of God Himself is still
being proclaimed to distant nations. And the message is being heeded. One great evidence of this
is the quadrennial Nazarene General Assembly where Christians from all over the globe gather to
give witness to God's working in their lives and to lay plans for an even wider proclamation of
the Kingdom.
Haitian Christians like to shout together: "Glwa a
Jezi!" Sometimes they'll shout it even three or four times. It means: "Glory be to
Jesus." Yes, indeed. Glory be to Him.
Discussion questions
How does the concept of Jesus as the Servant in whom God's splendor is displayed
resonate with you personally? In what ways does it shape your understanding of Jesus' role and
significance?
In what ways can we, as followers of Christ, be involved in proclaiming the message of the
Servant to distant nations? How can we ensure that the proclamation of the Kingdom gets to
those still unreached by the Gospel?
Are there occasions where you have witnessed the global unity of the Church and the clear
proclamation of God's Kingdom to all? How have these instances inspired and encouraged
you?
Lessons We Can Learn from Isaiah 49:3
Identification with Israel: The coming Messiah is
seen as embodying the essence of true Israel. It suggests to us that all followers of Jesus are
partakers in the promises and blessings given to the people of God in Old Testament
times.
Servanthood: Jesus modeled a life of humility and
service. Along the way, he exhorted his followers to serve one another with love and
compassion. This verse in Isaiah declares the coming Messiah to be the ultimate servant who
would bring glory to God through his obedience and sacrificial love.
Fulfillment of Prophecy: The fact that Jesus fulfills
the prophecies of the suffering servant demonstrates the divine plan of redemption. It reinforces
the belief that Jesus is the Messiah promised in the Old Testament.
Glorifying God: The ultimate purpose of Jesus'
mission on earth was to bring glory to God. His life, death, and resurrection serve to glorify God.
Inclusivity: Some interpretations of Isaiah 49:3 suggest that the servant represents
not only Jesus but also the entire community of Christ-followers. The verse can remind us idea
that those who follow Jesus are called to participate in his mission of redemption and to bring
glory to God.
Sunday
"This so-called foolish plan of God is far wiser than the wisest plan of the wisest man" --
1 Corinthians 1:25, The Living Bible
The greatest mystery: The power of self-denial
Jesus died while nailed to a crude wooden cross above
Jerusalem's garbage dump. As his life ebbed away, cynics talked smut, a thief cursed, and
soldiers gambled. To passers-by watching him suffer and die, Jesus' claim to be the Son of the
Living God must have seemed absurd. To those who called him Master and Lord, Jesus' public
execution surely must have shaken their belief that He was to be the world's Savior.
As Jesus' friends took his body down from the cross that
afternoon, the world scarcely took notice. As a messiah, Jesus
appeared to have been a failure. But he wasn't. He has, in fact, emerged as the triumphant victor,
the Messiah he claimed to be. His crucifixion has become one of the pivotal events in world
history.
Self-denial has proved to be more powerful than
self-assertion. Divine love, grace, and mercy had devised a plan of salvation so radical that some
still refuse to accept it. Jesus' suffering, self-sacrifice, devotion to principles, and heedlessness of
immediate consequences run contrary to all human wisdom.
But out of all that has come the greatest good the human
race has ever known. [ a Easter
devotional
]
Discussion questions
How does the concept of self-denial challenge conventional wisdom and human
understanding of success and power?
In what ways does Jesus' crucifixion exemplify the "foolish plan" of God mentioned in 1
Corinthians 1:25? How does it contrast with worldly expectations regarding greatness and
triumph?
Think about this statement: "Out of [Jesus' crucifixion] has come the greatest good the
human race has ever known." How might this perspective on suffering and sacrifice influence our
understanding of redemption and salvation?
Lessons for Us from 1 Corinthians 1:25
God's Wisdom Surpasses Human Wisdom: The
verse highlights the contrast between divine wisdom and human wisdom. God's wisdom and
power surpass our understanding.
Humility: Recognizing the limits of human wisdom
encourages humility. We must acknowledge that our understanding is finite and often flawed.
Faith: Trusting in God's wisdom and strength
requires faith. Even when circumstances seem contrary, we can rely on God's wisdom and
strength to guide us.
Reliance on God: Instead of relying solely on our
own intellect or abilities, we should rely on God for guidance and strength.
Re-ordering Our Values: 1 Corinthians 1:25 challenges conventional wisdom by
suggesting that what may appear foolish or weak in human eyes can actually be powerful and
wise in God's sight. That is a call to reevaluate our priorities and perspectives in light of God's
wisdom.
In summary, 1 Corinthians 1:25 calls us to approach life with humility, faith, and a reliance on God's wisdom rather than trusting our perceptions.
For Sunday
Scripture Reading — Romans 7:1-6
We have been released from the law so that we serve in the new way of the Spirit and not in
the old way of the written code" (Romans 7:6).
Serving in a new way
When Barbara and I lived in South Texas, we had some "Jesus people" friends who
felt the central theme of the Christian's life was to be "freedom in the Spirit" rather than "service
to the King." They define this as meaning there are few moral restraints on their lives.
They neglected to see that human beings were created to serve God.
Paul reminds us that, though we now live under grace, we
are still to serve God. Believers have been freed from the curse of the law. Because of that,
they can now obey God from love, with spontaneity and gladness of heart. In itself, the
law — though just, holy, and good — was insufficient for freeing people from
the power of inbred sin. Thus, under the law alone, human beings could not serve God in the way
they were created to.
Our joy in the Christian life comes not because we have
been released from the law. Rather, our joy springs from the fact that now we can "serve in the new way of the Spirit."
Our service to God now is no less demanding than it was under the law. But now the Spirit
makes power for service available to us. The secret of victory in the Christian life? It is serving
"in the new way of the Spirit."
Reflection questions
How should the concept of being released from the law and serving in the new way of
the Spirit guide our understanding of how to balance the concepts of freedom and moral
restraints in a life lived in the Spirit?
In what ways does serving God in the new way of the Spirit differ from serving under the
law? How does this understanding impact our motivation and attitude toward obedience?
Think about the idea that, for Christ-followers, joy comes from being able to serve in the
new way of the Spirit. How can we cultivate a greater reliance on the Spirit's power for service
and experience victory?
Worship in Song no. 398:
Jesus is the Joy of Living;
He's the King of Life to me.
— "Jesus Is the Joy of Living" by Alfred H. Ackley
Romans 7:1-6 discusses the relationship between the law and believers, using the analogy of
marriage to illustrate how believers are released from the law through Christ. There are at least
four takeaways for us in these verses:
Freedom from the Law: Just as a widow is no longer
bound to her husband, believers are no longer bound to the law due to their union with
Christ. Through His death and resurrection, we are freed from the law's authority.
New Life in Christ: Christ-followers are to serve
God in the new way of the Spirit rather than in the old way of a written code. Life in Christ is to
be characterized by living according to the Spirit rather than slavishly attempting to follow the
letter of the law.
Purpose of the Law: The law serves to reveal sin. It
shows our need for a Savior. By exposing our sinful nature and our inability to attain
righteousness on our own, the law actually points us to Christ.
Union with Christ: Believers are joined to Christ and are thus enabled to bear fruit
for God. Our union with Christ brings a profound transformation. We are no longer slaves to
sin but are empowered to live righteous lives through the Holy Spirit.
Week 3
For Monday
Scripture Reading — Acts 10:17-23
"So get up and go downstairs. Do not hesitate to go with them, for I have sent them."
(Acts 10:20).
A vision of universal grace
Peter's rooftop vision was painful for him. It called him to renounce racist pride and
prejudice. It meant repentance from his narrow Jewish parochialism. But he did not shy away
from letting the Holy Spirit alter his attitude and motivations.
That did not solve the problem for all mankind, however.
Racial pride and prejudice (anti-black and anti-white, anti-Jewish, and anti-Arab, as well as other
expressions of racism), political imperialism, cultural insensitivity, sexual oppression, and
indifference to the plight of the needy and powerless have continued to mar the church's
testimony to the universality of God's grace.
So I may need my eyes opened, too. Whatever "us-them"
lines keep me from witnessing across racial, social, political, or economic boundaries must be
swept away. The only dividing line that counts is the one between those in Christ and those
not in Him. Satan can easily use all other divisions to block the gates of the Kingdom.
Equality may often be a hollow dream everywhere else, but in the kingdom of God, it
is a reality! May my life and attitudes ever be a testimony to that truth!
Reflection questions
In what ways should Peter's rooftop vision reported in Acts 10 challenge attitudes of racial
superiority and prejudice?
In what ways can establishing divisions based on race, politics, or social status hinder the
church's testimony to the universality of God's grace?
The Bible affirms there is equality in the kingdom of God. How can we ensure that our attitudes, words, and actions testify to this truth in a world marred by prejudice, divisions, and injustice?
Worship in Song, no. 337:
Hark, 'tis the Shepherd's voice I hear,
Out in the desert dark and dear,
Calling the sheep who've gone astray,
Far from the Shepherd's fold away.
Divine Guidance and Openness to the Spirit: Acts
10:17-23 emphasizes the importance of being open to the Holy Spirit's guidance. Peter was
initially perplexed by the vision. However, he remained open to what it might be saying and to
the Spirit's prompting. Peter's attitude and reaction point to the value of spiritual receptivity
and obedience, even when we don't fully understand God's plans immediately.
Breaking Down Barriers: Peter's vision and the
arrival of Cornelius' men illustrate the breaking down of ethnic and cultural barriers. Peter, a Jew,
was being directed to visit Cornelius, a Gentile. This signals the gospel's inclusiveness and the need to break down prejudices and divisions. The passage should challenge us to reach out and embrace those who are different from us.
Hospitality and Welcoming Others: Peter shopwed
hos[itality by inviting the men into his home. This act of welcoming strangers models for us the
need to practice hospitality and openness in our own lives. Our homes and church buildings
must be places where others can experience God's love and acceptance.<>/li>
Responding to God's Call: The Acts 10 passage
shows the importance of responding promptly and obediently to God's call. Peter didn't hesitate
to follow the Spirit's direction. This should call us to be attentive and responsive to God's
leading. We can trust that He has a purpose for us.
Unity in the Body of Christ: The story emphasizes
the unity that results when people follow Christ. Despite their deep cultural and religious
differences, Peter and Cornelius were brought together by their faith.
God's Sovereignty and Plan: The narrative shows
that God's plans are sovereign and that they are often beyond our ability to understand them.
God orchestrated the meeting between Peter and Cornelius for a greater purpose. Shouldn't this
teach us to trust in God's plan even when we cannot see the full picture?
For Tuesday
Scripture Reading — Acts 16:6-10
"We got ready at once to leave for Macedonia, concluding that God had called us to preach
the gospel unto them" (Acts 16:10).
A vision of enlarged ministry
Quite a few years ago the Holy Spirit laid before Denver First Nazarene Church a vision of
enlarged ministry. They responded and became a potent spiritual force in that city as well as the
largest Nazarene church in North America at that time.
In 1975, a group of "dare-saints" under Paul Moore moved into New York's Times Square
with a Holy Spirit-inspired vision bigger than their pocketbooks.
The Oregon Pacific District of the Church of the Nazarene entered the 1980s with the aim of
planting more than a dozen new congregations every year
A vision of enlarged ministry has pushed Los Angeles First Church into becoming a mosaic
of linguistic, ethnic, and cultural groups.
This list could go on and on. Not of man-made dreams, but
of Holy Spirit-given visions of ministry. Paul's vision at Troas was an example of how the Holy
Spirit will lead both churches and individual Christians.
It is never a mistake for God's servants to follow His
leading. As we follow Him, we will discover like Paul did, that to follow the Holy Spirit is to
find ourselves involved in an ever-enlarging ministry. God will call. He will lead. Will we
follow?
Reflection questions
How do the examples of the churches mentioned demonstrate what can happen in
response to a vision of enlarged ministry?
How would you describe what the Holy Spirit can and will do to guide churches and
individual Christians toward an ever-enlarging ministry?
What can be learned from Acts 16:6-10 regarding the importance of following God's leading
in ways that can lead to an expanded and impactful ministry?
Worship in Song, no. 356:
Proclaim to ev'ry people, tongue, and nation
That God, in whom they live and move, is love.
Tell how He stooped to save His lost creation,
And died on earth that man might live above.
— "0 Zion, Haste" by Mary AnnThomson
For Wednesday
Scripture Reading — Hebrews 12:5-11
"The Lord disciplines the one he loves." (Hebrews 12:6).
Discipline for servanthood
"I was really sailing along good, and then this happened . . ."
Maybe that is the wrong reaction when we hit a bump in the
road of life. God can use what may appear to be unnecessary trouble to discipline us. True, it may
be a bitter medicine at times. But consider this: It may be our Father's hand of
love measuring out the dosage and asking us to drink it.
If we are honest, we will admit that, at times, we all need to be disciplined. God's gracious
and firm discipline will improve us as believers. Divine discipline, which is perfect in every way,
aims to make us sharers in the very holiness of God himself. While the suffering occasioned by
divine discipline will not save us, it can produce more holiness in us.
Let us never lightly dismiss God's disciplinary efforts nor allow such rigors to discourage us. God's discipline shows us clearly that we are loved by Him as His children. May the correction efforts of our Heavenly Father produce in us the ever-growing peace (shalom) of a righteous life!
Reflection questions
How might the concept of discipline challenge our initial reactions to difficulties we
face?
What can we do to ensure that we recognize and appreciate God's discipline as an expression
of His love?
How might understanding God's discipline as a means to share in His holiness affect our
perspective on suffering and hardship?
Worship in Song, no. 279:
Deeper, deeper! tho' it cost hard trials,
Deeper let me go!
Rooted in the holy love of Jesus,
Let me fruitful grow.
— "Deeper, Deeper" by Charles P. Jones
For Thursday
Scripture Reading — Acts 16:23-34
"At that hour of the night, the jailer took them and washed their wounds; then immediately he
and all his household were baptized." (Acts 16:33).
Bleeding to bless
Disorders. Floggings. Earthquake. Those were the
headlines out of Philippi. The morning dawned brighter, though. Third-century preacher John
Chrysostom — himself no stranger to persecution — sums it up this way: "The
jailer washed them from their stripes, and was himself washed from his sins."
The jailer and his family may not have been the only
converts that night. Maybe even some of the other prisoners were to become part of that
congregation to whom Paul would later write a letter we know as his Epistle to the
Philippians.
What could have been interpreted as just the calamities of
life was actually God's way of leading someone to hope and salvation. Thus the good news is
that God can be at work in the midst of trouble. Through the painful experiences of Paul and
Silas the Spirit of the living and loving God was at work to bless other people.
Are you hurting in some way? Even in what may seem to be
useless wounds, let's look for the hand of God at work. Let's pray that He'll use our bleeding to
bless someone else.
Reflection questions
Think about how the story of the jailer and his family in Acts 16:23-34 can remind us that God can use difficult and painful experiences for a greater purpose.
In what ways can we experience hope and salvation in the midst of personal trials and
tribulations?
How can we ensure that we are allowing God to use our wounds and hardships to bless and
encourage others around us?
Worship in Song, no. 349:
Rescue the perishing; care for the dying;
Snatch them in pity from sin and the grave.
Weep o'er the erring one; lift up the fallen;
Tell them of Jesus, the Mighty to Save.
— "Rescue the Perishing" by Fanny J. Crosby
For Friday
Scripture Reading — Mark 14:32-42
"They went to a place called Gethsemane, and Jesus said to his disciples, 'Sit here while I
pray.'" (Mark 14:32).
Jesus prayed too
Prolonged anxiety sometimes seems to turn the heart to stone. A spiritual life fed only by
prayers of habit withers in the face of soul anguish and one finds himself the victim of the sin of
prayerlessness.
I wasn't in the full-time ministry very long before I had already discovered that when many
weary souls called for the pastor, they were not wanting their prayer life revitalized. More often
than not, they're looking for temporary psychological props.
Jesus' response to heartbreak was radically different. On the night of deep agony of spirit, the
Son of Man turned again and again to prayer. He knew that prayer was the quickest and surest
way of recovering spiritual equilibrium.
Jesus came from that hour of repeated praying and
submission with a sense of power and poise. As He prayed, His words reflected a growing
perfectness of submission to the Father. This ought to be our pattern to follow.
Life's buffetings and long-prolonged struggles should not be
allowed to exhaust us emotionally and spiritually. Instead, they should drive us to desire ever
more intensely the intimate fellowship of prayer.
Reflection questions
What does Jesus' example of prayer in the face of heartbreak and struggle say to our
prayer lives? In what ways can we emulate His pattern of repeated prayer and submission to the
Father?
Is there a danger of relying on temporary psychological props instead of cultivating a genuine
prayer life? How can we distinguish between seeking spiritual equilibrium through prayer and
seeking temporary relief or comfort in difficult times?
How can we maintain a fervent desire for prayer even when faced with prolonged struggles
or emotional exhaustion? What practical steps can we take to cultivate a consistent and vibrant
prayer life?
Worship in Song, no. 479:
Oh, how praying rests the weary!
Prayer will change the night to day.
Jesus' Humanity and Agony: Jesus experienced
deep anguish and distress. That revealed His human side. He sought support from His disciples
and prayed fervently to the Father. All of this showed that even in His divinity, He had real
human emotions.
Submission to God's Will: Jesus ultimately
submitted to the Father's will, praying, "Not what I will, but what You will." We
too need to align our desires with God's will, especially when it seems difficult to do so.
The Disciples' Weakness: Despite Jesus' request for
his disciples to keep watch, they repeatedly fell asleep. This highlights human weakness and
the challenge of staying spiritually vigilant. It may also show the disciples' inability to fully grasp
the gravity of the situation.
The Importance of Prayer in Trials: Jesus' response to imminent and intense
physical suffering was to pray. That should encourage us to turn to prayer in times of trial.
For Saturday
Scripture Reading — Job 1:6-12
"The Lord said to Satan, 'Very well, then, everything [Job] has is in your power, but on the
man himself do not lay a finger.;" (Job 1:12).
This far but no farther!
Numerous buildings in Florence, Italy, have little
plaques marking the height of floodwaters on November 4, 1966. On that day the Arno River
overflowed its banks and came swirling into buildings, depositing debris, mud, and oil
everywhere. In some places, the water rose as high as 20 feet, damaging and destroying
businesses, homes, and art treasures.
Those little marble markers serve a tourist function. But I
like to think they also say: Yes, the river invaded us. All the way up to here. It did its worst. But
it had a limit. And we survived.
That's what Job's story tells us about Satan's demonic powers. Satan has his limits. And he
can go no farther than God will permit. We, too, are a part of the cosmic battle which involved
Job and Satan. Sometimes, we feel like pawns in a battle between equal superpowers, but we
need not succumb to pessimism and lose sight of the triumphal theme of the gospel.
Job's life teaches us that nothing can touch us except with our Father's knowledge and His
permission. Alleluia! We are ultimately in God's hands. God's power is revealed even as Satan's
limits are uncovered.
Reflection questions
How might the story of Job demonstrate the limits of Satan's power and the ultimate
authority of God?
What can we learn from Job's experience about our lives and the battles we face?
Why can we say that the knowledge that God is sovereign and has power over all things
brings hope and encouragement in times of challenges and trials?
Worship in Song, no. 431:
In the midst of battle be thou not dismayed,
Tho' the pow'rs of darkness 'gainst thee are arrayed.
God, thy Strength, is with thee, causing thee to stand;
Heaven's allied armies wait at thy command.
"I pray that out of his glorious riches, he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in
your inner being," (Ephesians 3:16).
Enabled for every circumstance
Got any rivers you think are uncrossable?
Got any mountains you can't tunnel through?
Remember that classic little chorus? It echoes the last part of
Ephesians 3. Here in the middle of a letter whose main subject is the Church, Paul breaks forth in
a prayer for victorious strength in Christ. He seems fired to an incandescent glow by the thought
that there is limitless power available to achieve God's goals for us.
Paul's prayer for believers battling in the thick of the fray
reminds us that we do not have to be despondent stragglers in the rear. Like Paul, we can be
happy passengers in the chariot of God, calling out to others with infectious enthusiasm:
"Come up and ride with us!"
In these days when shadows of human error and apostasy hang dark on the world, let us live
intoxicated by the thought that we can be divinely enabled to be victorious in every circumstance.
There is no limit to God's power! Only our words and thoughts about it are limited.
Reflection questions
In what ways does the affirmation about being "divinely enabled to be victorious in
every
circumstance" challenge your current perspective on facing challenges and adversity?
What does it mean to live "intoxicated by the thought" that limitless power is available
to achieve God's goals for us? How might this mindset impact your daily life and
decision-making?
Think about what you have thought and said in the past about God's power. Are there any
limitations or doubts you have placed on His ability to work in your life? How can you cultivate
a mindset that fully embraces and relies on God's unlimited power?
Worship in Song, no. 362:
Trials many will beset my pathway,
And temptations I shall surely meet;
But my Saviour promised grace to help me
Till I lay my trophies at His feet.
— "My Soul Is Filled with Glory" by J. M. Harris
-- Howard Culbertson,
The Come Ye Apart" is now published quarterly as
Reflecting God by Word Action Publishing and available through
what is now called The Foundry.
Benefits of a Daily Devotional Time
Having a daily time of personal devotion, which may involve prayer, meditation, journaling,
music and other reflective practices. can be beneficial for several reasons:
Centering and Focus: Personal devotion provides a
designated time to center yourself, quiet your mind, and focus on what truly matters. It is easy to
get swept up in the chaos of daily life. A set time for personal devotion allows us to pause and
reconnect with our values and goals and bask in the inner peace brought by God's Spirit.
Stress Reduction: Engaging in practices like
meditation or prayer can reduce stress and promote relaxation. By calming our minds and
bodies, we can find ourselves better equipped to handle the challenges and pressures of everyday
life.
Emotional Well-being: Personal devotion time can
provide a safe space for processing emotions. That may mean expressing gratitude, seeking
guidance, or finding comfort in times of difficulty. Journaling, in particular, can be a powerful
tool for self-reflection and emotional release.
Spiritual Growth: A daily time of personal devotion
fosters a deepening of our relationship with Jesus Christ. Regular engagement with the
Bible, prayer, and devotional writings can inspire us, nurture spiritual growth, provide insights
and a sense of connection to God.
Clarity and Decision Making: A personal devotion
time can help us clarify our thoughts and priorities. It can facilitate making decisions that align
with our values and aspirations. Those quiet times offer moments of pause to consider our
options mindfully, rather than always reacting impulsively.
Improved Mental Health: Studies have shown that
regular spiritual practices, including personal devotions, can have positive effects on mental
health. These include reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression, enhancing resilience, and
fostering a sense of purpose and meaning in life.
Relationship Building: Personal devotions aren't just
about self-care. They can also strengthen your relationships with others. For example, praying
for loved ones or reflecting on ways to show kindness and compassion can deepen your
connections to other people and promote empathy.
Consistency and Discipline: Establishing a daily practice of personal devotions
cultivates discipline and consistency. That can spill over into other areas of our lives. By
prioritizing this time each day, we build resilience and self-mastery. That can translate into
increased fruitfulness and accomplishment in whatever we are involved in.
In summary, having a daily time of personal devotions can be profoundly beneficial for our
overall well-being. It can bring peace and provide insight and growth amidst the busyness of
life.
