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TODAY

“This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it,” Psalm 118:24 (ESV). A new day is dawning. Unfinished business, past, and present, is already popping up in my mind. Today's challenges and opportunities now await me, This brand-new day is another undeserved gift from the Ancient of Days, and I must seize it with renewed gusto. I do not want to disregard its value by dwelling on the past nor waste time in anxiety about the future. I give praise to You, My Creator and Redeemer, for this new day. You made it, You rule it, and now I will rejoice and be glad in it. My heart is attuned to Your Voice. Today. 

A HEART OF PRAISE

“Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise; give thanks to Him and praise His name,” Psalm 100:4 ESV. You can’t keep a worshipper’s heart down. Praise of our Heavenly Father lifts our hearts beyond our circumstances and takes us into the presence of The LORD of LORDS: The more I worship Him, the more I love Him. The more I love Him, the smaller life’s difficult circumstances become. The smaller our fears become, the greater our faith grows! I can praise God in silence, I can shout to Him out loud, I can bow my face to the ground in His Presence, and I can praise Him by quietly, steadily obeying His commands. The moment praise begins, transformation ignites! It happens from the inside out!  O LORD My Father, I lift up my heart in praise. Forgive my wanderings into the valley of self-obsession and help me to dance upon the mountaintop of praise. 

FRUITFULNESS

“And God said, ‘Let the earth sprout vegetation, plants yielding seed, and fruit trees bearing fruit in which is their seed, each according to its kind, on the earth.’ And it was so,” Genesis 1:11 ESV. As a child traveling with my family through Florida, I marveled at the seemingly endless amount of fruit-laden orange trees. The branches were so full of citrus that the lower ones touched the ground. In a similar fashion, each and every moment is laden with God’s Presence. “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control,” Galatians 5:22-23 ESV. I want every one of these! What will God provide me today that could help change someone’s life? Lord, thank You for Your bountiful blessings. Help me awaken to and take hold of Your provision. I ask that You never allow me to consume Your Goodness for myself without sharing it with others. 

OTHERS

“Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him,” James 1:12 ESV. Over a lifetime, I’ve earned a few titles and received a few awards. Most of them are now stacked in drawers and closets or only have purpose or meaning as a part of some story that comes up from time to time. In the final analysis, they have little enduring value. One of my spiritual fathers, Costa Deir, would say: “Son, a great life can be summed up in one word: ‘others’”. This leads to the question of life that matters above all else, “have I been a blessing to others?” Father, the only prize I now seek is to remain steadfast by helping, strengthening, and lifting others. May my hands not be found empty when I join the gathering before Your throne in heaven and we joyfully cast our crowns at your feet. 

GOD'S HOLY GRIP

“I know,   Lord , that our lives are not our own. We are not able to plan our own course,” Jeremiah 10:23 NLT. Having the steady hand of a teacher draped over my own as I learned to write never seemed overly confining. Actually, the opposite was true; the gentle, firm guidance of my teacher’s hand liberated me to boldly attempt what had been very difficult on my own. And now, as a grown man, I do not resent God’s constant supervision and guidance. While I am still prone to strike out on my own, it is far better to fall into the grasp of Almighty God than into the hands of any other, including my own. “For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God,” Romans 8:14 ESV. O Lord my Teacher and Guide, into Your Holy Grip I gladly yield. Guide my choices according to what is best and move me as You will.

HIDDEN TREASURES

“His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who called us to his own glory and excellence,” 2 Peter 1:3 ESV. Jerusalem is one of the world’s most ancient cities. Thousands of years of building and rebuilding have left its oldest sections buried deep underground. Constant excavations guarantee that new treasures are found daily by those who seek them. Each unearthed artifact leads to a greater understanding of the city’s true character. The work of God’s Word and Spirit has the same effect within us. He exposes and removes the rubble and refuse of the past and surfaces hidden treasures that He previously implanted. These divine attributes are designed for God’s purpose for each of His children. Lord God expose every part of my heart to Your Light and use me for Your Glory.

GOD"S PANIC ATTACKS

“He said to them, ‘Why are you afraid, O you of little faith?’ Then he rose and rebuked the winds and the sea, and there was a great calm,” Matthew 8:26 ESV. A powerful storm on the lake prompted the disciples to awaken Jesus from his well-deserved nap. The disciples were in mortal fear, their panic made them feel he didn’t care, and their words were infused with foolishness: “Teacher, don’t you care if we drown?” Jesus’ response to the disciples? “Why are you so afraid? Do you STILL have no faith?” Mark 4:40 NIV. The size of our crisis causes no panic in Heaven. Instead, God attacks the source of our panic within us and reveals to us the source of our deliverance. Faith in the perfect Love of God delivers us from all other terrors. Heavenly Father, Your timing, Your way, Your will, that’s it! My storms are in Your hands, so I rest assured in Your Presence. You are my solid rock! 

LEAK PATROL

"So, whoever knows the right thing to do and fails to do it, for him it is sin,” James 5:14 ESV.  The temptation to compromise is constant. While most sincere believers hold the line on the big issues, it is easy to make concessions on smaller things. Those who manage dams do not take cracks lightly. Leaks do not self-repair, so they must be addressed, or they will only worsen. Therefore, they do daily leak patrols. The same can be said of the soul. When life’s pressures build, even the most spirit-filled heart can be drained. I must consistently seek fresh infilling and simultaneously take care of issues that siphon away God’s Presence. No one else can guard my heart; I must take personal responsibility to remain filled. Glorious Father, open the windows of heaven afresh. Grant me wisdom to recognize and attend to things that deplete my heart of Your Glory and Presence. 

ON THIN ICE

“Now come, and I will send you to Pharaoh so that you may bring My people, the sons of Israel, out of Egypt.” But Moses said to God, “Who am I to go to Pharaoh and bring the people of Israel out of Egypt?” Exodus 3:10-11. I understand Moses’ reluctance, the call of God on my life has always exceeded my known resources, proven capabilities, and personal character. I have come to understand this is the way it must be; otherwise, I would foolishly lean too heavily upon myself. It is the daily walk on thin ice that keeps me alert and dependent upon divine intervention. My weaknesses invite God’s mercy, strength, and goodness. So I begin another day shrouded in frailty but anticipating a new measure of grace and victory while contemplating God’s promise to Moses, “I will be with you.” Blessed Father, You are not put off by my shortcomings. When I am weak, You are strong. Blessed Master, use me this day for Your glory. 

KEEPING WATCH

“The Lord keeps watch over you as you come and go, both now and forever,” Psalm 121:8 NTL. The journey to or from the Western Hemisphere to the Eastern requires all-day and all-night-long flights. A difficult period of restless sleep is the norm, but so much happens while I doze. On these global treks, busy pilots navigate through dangers, flight attendants take care of passengers, powerful engines strain against gravity and weather conditions, all the while I am mostly unaware of the scene around me. And so, it is with life in general. Each day I live mostly unaware of how dependent I am on heaven’s helping hand. Without my slightest notice, prophecies are fulfilled, angels carry out their assignments, prayers are answered, and my steps are “ordered by the LORD.” Lord, forgive my sleepy presumptuousness. Thank You for safely carrying me through each day. Use me to do Your bidding this new day.

MORE BLESSED

" In all things, I have shown you that by working hard in this way we must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’” Acts 20:35 ESV. This is not just great spiritual insight for each of us; it is a revelation of the very nature and way of God. He doesn’t need a thing, so there is never even a smidgen of selfishness in His benevolence. He freely gives, and He loves to do it. It blesses our Father In Heaven when we align our lives with His nature by giving. He desires this for our own benefit! Our Heavenly Father is blessed to be able to open the windows of heaven to us. We never need to beg but must meet His conditions to receive. They are simple: belief, humility, generosity, obedience, stewardship, and compassion for others. Great and Glorious Giver of All Things, clear away all greed, selfishness, fear, or any other hindrances, so I may be an open channel of Your blessings to others.

OUR GUIDANCE SYSTEM

“Let love be your guide. Christ loved us and offered his life for us as a sacrifice that pleases God,” Ephesians 5:2 CEV. This biblical command to use love as our guidance system is vital for spiritual success. Doing the right thing is not automatic; there are always other options pulling on us in the moment of decision. Personal interests must be conceded each time good is chosen over evil, and “speaking the truth in love,” Ephesians 4:15, awakens things faster than a dip in an icy spring. Letting love be our guide not only makes good choices desirable, but it also makes doing the right thing consistently achievable. Failures to do so remind me that I am still a rookie at times, but I am confident God will finish His work of love in me and through me to others. Blessed Father, Your “love never fails.” Dispel the darkness of self-centeredness and fortify me with Your amazing love. 

DIALING IN

The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, for the ears of the wise seek it out,” Proverbs 18:15 ESV. The key to the clarity of sight through a set of binoculars is learning how to adjust the lens until we get the proper focus. We must not only look in the right direction; we must also learn the intricacies of “dialing in.” Orienting our hope in the “unseen” is the same process. To turn to God is the beginning of hope, but we must learn to “dial-in” to the Promises found in the Word of God and seek the enlightenment of the Holy Spirit to maintain clarity. Placing hope in anything but the Word and Spirit of the LORD Almighty is a recipe for disaster; no mortal substitute will do. Lord of Hope, forgive my wandering eyes. You alone are my sure foundation and constant salvation. My heart is safely in Your hands. 

LOVERS AND LOSERS

“Give, and it will be given to you. Good measure pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you,” Luke 6:28 ESV. We are offered amazing blessings from God’s sovereign promises in this passage. One of the methods Satan utilizes to paralyze our faith is to blow on the coals of self-centeredness and fear within us, keeping our hands and hearts closed. But what we make happen for others God makes happen for us! The “Father of Lies” steals our blessing and purpose by turning us toward selfishness, jealousy, and presumptuousness. Lovers are givers, and givers have the unending joy of the LORD; Users are losers and have the grief of miserly stinginess. Blessed LORD, help me live with open hands and an open heart. Make me an instrument of blessing to others. Help me live to give, live to lift, live to bless!

MY BEST ADVICE

“Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock,” Matthew 7:24 ESV. We all get a lot of advice. Whether in my car, in conversations or even just listening to music on a morning walk, there is a constant stream of recommendations to “eat this,” “drink that,” “buy this,” “go there,” “get better sleep”…you know the drill. But a wise person prioritizes quality advice and puts it into action. There is no better source for living our very best life than hearing the Word of God and putting its instructions into action. Frankly, I’m not the sharpest pencil in the drawer. But what adds brilliance to my mediocre thought process is consistently reading the Bible, meditating on what I read, and making earnest attempts to apply the Word to my life. LORD, thank You for Your precious Word and the Holy Spirit’s guidance this new day. 

UNFETTERED JOY!

“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!” Luke 2,12 ESV. These words shouted in joyful praise by a multitude of angels give us a small peek into heaven. We see how a rustic barn can be transformed into a cathedral of praise. We see the unfettered joy that comes when God’s Divine Will is manifested! Unfortunately, the Christmas Story has morphed into Grumpy Grinches, Silly Santas, Shopping Malls, and Raging Debt. But in fact, the real story hasn’t changed a wit. So, it’s a great time to pull out our bibles and read about the birth, death, resurrection, ascension, and the impending return of Our Savior and LORD. Father, help me pull away from the glitter and glamor of the season. Grant me the grace to let go of the unique disappointments of this particular Christmas Season. Thank you for giving me this unique opportunity to quiet my soul and re-live the wonderful story of Jesus. 

I CAN CHOOSE

“And if it is evil in your eyes to serve the Lord, choose this day whom you will serve…but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord,” Joshua 24:15 ESV. I can choose whom and how I serve. I could surrender to circumstances. I could resent, obsess, or despair over what has passed me by. I could vainly dream of what could have been or should have been. Then again, I can choose a more noble way. I can put each moment, each desire, every person, hope, fear, or dream into the nail-scarred Hands. I can worship as did the psalmist and declare that God is great and greatly to be praised! I can leave behind the squalor of doubt and fear and join the multitude of heaven in eternal praising of God saying: “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth, peace and goodwill toward men!” Lord God Almighty, Giver of Choice, I thank You that today I can choose, and I gladly, gratefully, eternally choose to serve and praise You! 

SHIELDED BY GOD

“For you bless the righteous, O Lord; You cover him with favor as with a shield,” Psalm 5:12 ESV. As is true for everyone, I’ve been hit with more than a few unexpected blows in life. The loss of family members and dear friends, health issues, financial hurdles, daily fears, and the list goes on. We’ve all seen or faced these calamities and many more like them. But what we don’t know is how many times God has shielded us from hard blows that were headed our way. We are each delivered countless times, and we are wholly unaware of it. Psalm 34:7 proclaims: “The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear him, and he delivers them.” I cannot expect to live this life without troubles, but I can rejoice in the knowledge that I am favored and watched over as a child of God. LORD, You are glorious in wisdom, majestic in power, and to be forever praised for Your Goodness and Care.

WORDS OF LIFE

“Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear,” Ephesians 4:29 ESV. The words we speak cause life to spring forth or inflict withering pain. As Scripture declares: “death and life are in the power of the tongue,” Proverbs 18:21 ESV. We cannot walk back careless words once they are spoken, nor can we reconstruct the timely moments we miss when we should have spoken life. Therefore, our tongue must be bridled, trained, and guided by God’s Word and the Holy Spirit. As did the angels in their yuletide announcement long ago, our words should bring good tidings of great joy to all. O Lord My Master and Teacher, make my mouth an instrument of Your Love. Attune my heart and may the words that proceed from it pour forth the Word of Life. 

THE NAME

“Because he holds fast to me in love, I will deliver him; I will protect him because he knows my name,” Psalm 91:14 ESV. In the bible, there are many names for God, but why are there so many? The greatness of The Lord Our God is simply beyond the capacity of one name to characterize His Majesty and Awesomeness. Like individual facets on a diamond, each name reflects the light of His Glory a little differently, each one reckoning upon different aspects of His power. His Name is not merely a moniker; when we speak His name in any biblical form, we are reckoning upon His very nature and power to transform. Not to be used as a magical incantation, one’s heart must seek the Lord Himself as we call on His Name. El Shaddai, Elohim, Yahweh, Adonai; to declare Your Name releases unquenchable joy and unmatchable power! In Your Name, it is well, it is well with my soul! 

SUNLIGHT AND SONLIGHT

“For God, who said, ‘Let light shine out of darkness,’ has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ,” 2 Corinthians 4:6 ESV. Sunlight is a powerful disinfectant and bactericide. Sunlight is used worldwide to clean water, kill germs,, and protect us from various types of  bacteria  such as Tuberculosis and E coli. But with all its cleansing power, it cannot purify our hearts. Only the Light of the LORD can do that! What we need, what we must seek, what we must have daily is SONLIGHT! In such a time of worldwide fear and darkness, we have a special role: “Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven,” Matthew 5:16 ESV. LORD, shine Your light into my heart, and may Your Sonlight reflect upon all whom I encounter so that You may be glorified and they may be cleansed. 

ANGER DANGER

“A man of great wrath will pay the penalty, for if you deliver him, you will only have to do it again,” Proverbs 19:19 ESV. Mild anger can move us into needed action and change, but it can easily metastasize into animosity, infuriation, and hatred. However, there is a real danger in uncontrolled anger. The Biblical admonition is: “Don’t sin by letting anger control you. Think about it overnight and remain silent,” Psalm 4:4 NLT. All too often, we run  to the source of our anger and attempt to change the circumstance or person making us angry. But the right starting point is to let God work in our hearts first. We must let His wisdom shape our response to what angers us. Lord of Unfailing Love, you created me to quickly respond to You, not have a quick temper. Forgive my many failings in this area of my life and help me first examine my heart before reacting to circumstances. May Your Love always guide my actions and especially, my reactions. 

THE STAGE

“In your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect,” 1 Peter 3:15 ESV. To openly live a life of faith is not a proclamation of personal perfection. In fact, the opposite is true. To reveal that I am a believer is to open the curtain and turn on the lights; my imperfections become the stage upon which the amazing grace and relentless love of God are displayed for all to see. In my weakness, His awesome strength is brought to the forefront. Glossing over our foibles presents a false image of the believer’s life and, in the end, does more harm than good. Lord, You are my Fortress and Deliverer, reveal Yourself in me. May my failings spotlight Your exquisiteness. May my need for constant redemption encourage others to seek the same. 

LOOSE LIPS

“Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits,” Proverbs 18:21 ESV. “Loose lips sink ships” was a common warning on posters during World War II, meaning "beware of unguarded talk." It was intended to keep secret information safe from enemy spies.  It is still sound advice. What I say with my mouth can enlighten or deceive, bless or curse, release or entrap, stir love or foment hatred. In a world where communication and expression of ideas, opinions, and commentaries are easier than ever before, even greater caution should be taken. Ephesians 4:15 commands: “speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ.” My mouth should be a fountain of blessings, not a cauldron of poison. O LORD My Maker, fill my heart and lips with words of life. Let my words bring “sweetness to the soul and health to the bones.” 

NOTHING UNKNOWN

“And no creature is hidden from his sight, but all are naked and exposed to the eyes of him to whom we must give account,” Hebrews 4:13 ESV. Many years ago, we awoke to a swarm of termites in our bedroom. It is very unsettling to discover that something so destructive can be all around yet unseen and undetected. An unforeseen negative experience can feed paranoia and undermine our confidence as we go forward. Like termites in the wall, fear of the unknown can quietly gnaw away our stability. But there is good news; while I can easily be fooled, there is nothing unknown to God. There is simply no such thing as abstract knowledge for Him who knows all things at once. Father, You are the only reliable source for unmasking the unknown. Grant me Your wisdom, increase my discernment, uncover harmful deceptions, and let truth and light guide my way. 

AS HE IS

“I am the good shepherd. I know my own and my own know me,” John 10:14 ESV. Though I see My Redeemer as if I’m looking through a window that hasn’t been washed in many years, I know Him in very personal ways. I know His voice. I know His love. I know His power. I know His discipline. But one day, I will see Him “as He is”. The apostle John wrote: “Beloved, we are God's children now, and what we will be has not yet appeared; but we know that when He appears, we shall be like Him, because we shall see Him as He is,” 1 John 3:2 ESV. This verse is so intriguing, especially the words “as He is”. They make it clear that whatever I think about Him now falls short of reality. Though I feel that I love Him now, the truth is, I don’t really know Him “as He is” but one day I shall. The words to the song by MercyMe come to mind: “I can only imagine what my eyes will see,  When Your face is before me, I can only imagine”. LORD, I await the day. 

TESTED FAITH

“Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen,” Hebrews 11:1 ESV. Faith is fully revealed only when it has been authenticated by testing. Abraham’s faith faced the ultimate test when God asked him to sacrifice Isaac, his miracle son:  “ By faith Abraham, when he was tested, offered up Isaac, and he who had received the promises was in the act of offering up his only son,” Hebrews 11:17 ESV. Of course, God did not want to take away Isaac’s life. He wanted Abraham’s heart. He wanted Abraham to understand trust in God on a whole new level. God had clearly promised Abraham “many descendants,” and this promise could not be fulfilled unless Isaac lived. Abraham knew that God would not lie, so he rested in God’s promises even when God’s command did not make any sense. We all face these moments. LORD, grant me the grace to always obey. 

UNWRAPPED

“When he had said this, Jesus called in a loud voice, ‘Lazarus, come out!’   The dead man came out, his hands and feet wrapped with strips of linen and a cloth around his face. Jesus said to them, ‘Take off the grave clothes and let him go,’” John 11:43-44 ESV. The pursuit of the Perfect One while still wrapped in the imperfection of this life is our daily conundrum. Like Lazarus, we are made alive inwardly by the mighty words of our Savior to   “Come forth!” And like Lazarus, we too must be unwrapped from the lingering linens of death. Others assisted his freedom as they followed the Master’s command. The freedom to which God calls us is accomplished in the same manner. Lord of the Free Indeed, help me not resist being unwrapped. Incline my heart to obey Your Word without hesitation and use me to help others be released to walk in freedom. 

EQUALIBRIUM

“Therefore thus says the Lord God, ‘Behold, I am the one who has laid as a foundation in Zion, a stone, a tested stone, a precious cornerstone, of a sure foundation,” Isaiah 28:16 ESV. Years ago, I looked out the window of our home on the river and received quite a surprise. One of our largest oak trees had crashed onto our driveway, trunk to the ground, its huge roots pointing skyward. It is a shock when something that normally stretches into the sky collapses and lies upended and broken. Soil and water are the very things that nourish a giant Water Oak Tree, but these life-giving necessities can be its undoing when given in excess. It is the same with me. Only the Eternal Designer who knit me together can keep me in equilibrium. My spirit, soul, and body must be fully nourished but guarded against excess. O Lord, My Caretaker, guide me into balance and moderation. Keep me from seeking excessive sustenance outside of Your design or provision. 

THE RIGHT THING

“And a woman named Martha welcomed him into her house.   And she had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord's feet and listened to his teaching,” Luke 10:38-30 ESV. Both Martha and Mary were good women who loved Jesus. They both sat at his feet to learn. When Martha did the right thing by inviting Jesus into their home, and working hard to take care of their many guests, Mary did the right thing by staying at His feet, riveted with the truth she was receiving. It is entirely possible to be doing the right thing personally yet still create bad feelings in others. Frankly, we do it all the time. Sometimes I’m considered to be a “Martha” in the opinion of others, other times I’m seen as a “Mary”. I’m thankful for this very personal and revealing story being in the bible. I should keep it in mind when I find myself on either side of these kinds of circumstances. LORD, help me rightly discern the moment and deliver me from wrongful personal comparisons of others.

QUIET PLEASE

“You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you,” Isaiah 26:3 ESV. My best times of prayer are mostly done in quiet solitude early in the morning. Quiet time is the perfect remedy for an overstimulated soul. However, even though it is silent around me, my internal impulses often make my private meditations feel more like rush-hour on the I-95 Corridor. Random thoughts, daily concerns, carping accusations from the evil one and incessant problem-solving noisily crowd into holy space carved out for God alone. Thankfully, the Word of God combines with the Holy Spirit within me to guide me to wonderful places I could never find on my own. Glorious God, only You can quiet my soul. Silence my thoughts and calm my inner storm. You are my peace. You are LORD of All. I await Your voice and today’s instructions.  

THE MONEY ISSUE

“A woman came up to him with an alabaster flask of costly ointment, and she poured it on his head as he reclined at the table,” Matthew 26:7 ESV. All of the disciples were upset at what they saw as an unworthy woman and a big waste. But for Judas Iscariot, it triggered something far more sinister: “And from that moment he sought an opportunity to betray him,” Matthew 26:16 (ESV). We attempt to put distance between Judas’ betrayal and our own distrust of God’s choices, but betrayal always lurks in the heart of the person who does not have  the money issue  dealt with; it is at the core,  a trust issue . It is not left up to us to pick and choose which of His ways we will accept. An absence of thankfulness always precedes accusing God of not caring for our needs. Great Shepherd though I do not always understand Your choices, I rest in your tender care. 

NO FEAR

“There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not been perfected in love,” 1 John 4:18 ESV. To run from our fears leaves us in a state of relentless anxiety. To bulldoze through our fears in unwarranted self-confidence can destroy us and others. There is a better way; to run to God with our fears is to face them and destroy them. “I can handle this!” are “famous last words,” often spoken just before befalling an impending catastrophe. Confidence is great if rightly placed, but hubris is the beginning of many sorrows. The fear of God delivers us from fear of anything else. Glorious LORD of All, while I myself can do nothing without Your mercy, power, and grace, in Your strength, “I can run through a troop and leap over walls.” “I can do all things” while nestled safely in Your Promises, Strength, and Authority.

DISCRETION

“Discretion will watch over you, understanding will guard you,” Proverbs 2:11 ESV. The multiple commands for us to use discretion in life are not a form of divine harassment or an attempt to hijack our personal sense of fulfillment. Discretion is a precious gift from God intended to help us be the best we can be. The lack of discretion in modern culture harms us all. Consideration of the consequences must be factored in before, not afterward. Time spent with thoughtful people increases my tendency to make responsible decisions and guards me against inappropriate recklessness. Good judgment does not lock us away from the world around us; it empowers us to walk more safely in every life circumstance. Giver of All Wisdom, grant me foresight and good sense today. Guard my mouth and actions by Your Word and Spirit.

“IN”, BUT NOT “OF”

“Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what partnership has righteousness with lawlessness? Or what fellowship has light with darkness?” 2 Corinthians 6:14 ESV. This is our conundrum, we are to be IN this world but not OF this world. Oil and water do not mix, nor does godliness (godlikeness) and worldliness. Our role as Lovers of God is not simply pointing to what is wrong in this world; it is for us to illustrate what redemption looks like. We can be fully functional “in this world’ while being “not of this world.” Pure motives, driven by godly morals and delivered in unselfish love, is a divine steamroller, crushing foolish arguments, pulverizing false precepts, and preparing the ground for what God wants to construct. Father, make me an instrument of Your amazing love and use me to reflect your resplendent Light to all I meet.

THANKSGIVING

“I will give thanks to the Lord with my whole heart; I will recount all of Your wonderful deeds. I will be glad and exult in you; I will sing praise to your name, O Most High.” Psalm 9:1-2 (ESV). I have so many things to be thankful for that there are simply too many to recount.  My enormous advantage was embodied in parents who loved each other deeply and genuinely loved God. On this Thanksgiving I’m particularly thankful for those who helped form me into the man I am. A shortlist would be my Mother, my brothers, Costa & Ruth Deir, Russell & Barbara Linenkhol, Doug & Sue Fowler, Paul & Dee Goodwin, and many others. They were preachers, housewives, prayer warriors, engineers, surgeons, missionaries…they were my spiritual fathers and mothers, counselors, instructors, life-models, friends. And above all, there’s My Sharon. Enough said. LORD, may my life pass forward the great treasures You have bestowed. 

HEARING, HEARING AND HEARING

“So, faith comes from hearing and hearing through the word of Christ,” Romans 10:17 ESV. The life of faith is not made of hoped-for outcomes rooted in our perceived needs or our personal desires. Biblical Faith reaches for concrete realities that are promised in Scripture. Each step of Biblical Faith must be ignited by the divine spark of “hearing” the Word of God and believing what it promises. Only actions first bathed in Biblical Promises and accompanied by Holy Spirit-guided conviction will be sufficiently purged of the darkness of doubt or mixed motives. “Hearing” is a process and requires hearing and hearing, and hearing, and hearing. Time spent studying, obeying, confessing, meditating, and sharing The Word is the seedbed for harvest! Father, teach me to rest assured in Your Providence while straining toward Your will. You alone kindle true belief, and You alone can carry me safely to triumph. 

OUR STANDING WITH GOD

“The Lord is my strength and my song; He has become my salvation,” Psalm 118:14. King David was both a king and a warrior, yet he understood he was powerless without God’s favor and help. And when King Nehemiah heard of Jerusalem’s terrible condition with its walls destroyed and its enemies plundering it, he did not start rebuilding the walls by gathering resources or recruiting help, he began with repentance: “let your ear be attentive and your eyes open, to hear the prayer of your servant that I now pray before you day and night for the people of Israel your servants, confessing the sins of the people of Israel, which we have sinned against you. Even I and my father's house have sinned,” Nehemiah 1:6 ESV. We cannot effectively stand against the enemies around us until we address our own standing with God. Father, forgive my sins and grant me Your strength that I may help others.

POLITE DISOBEDIENCE

“Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver,” 2 Corinthians 9:7 ESV. So, I can put a smile on my Heavenly Father’s face by my cheerful obedience! What a wonderful thought! Since God sees into our souls as easily as looking into a fishbowl, grudging obedience will never suffice. Unless our obedience is practiced promptly and with the right attitude it is nothing more than “polite disobedience”. While others may be fooled, the Lord Almighty knows the underlying thoughts and intentions of every person’s actions. Resentful obedience leaves us empty and does not produce in us the purpose God intends. On the other hand, willing, prompt submission to His Will releases joy in heaven and on earth! Oh Lord, Keeper of My Soul, teach me to love You without reserve in all that I do.

TRIUMPH IN THE TRASH COMPACTOR

  “But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. We are hard-pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair,” 2 Corinthians 4:8 NIV. Life often seems like a rugby scrum. While I know full well that God is always present and all His ways are loving and faithful, still, at times it feels as if I’m dwelling in a trash compactor. Each time I am tempted to complain I must remember that there are many more powerful options. Instead of complaining about the pressures, I can glorify God in my distress. I may confess His Promises and shout for joy, giving grateful praise to Him who is The Ever Faithful One. I can put on a garment of praise and anoint my head with the oil of joy. Glorious Father, You are my Keeper; Your presence sustains me in the midst of chaos. I lift my eyes to You, my Fortress, my Deliverer, my Peace. 

PLUGGED IN

“For the kingdom of God does not consist in talk but in power,” I Corinthians 4:20 ESV. There is no shortage of words among believers, but there is often a shortage of power. It’s not that God’s power is not present; it’s just that we are often not plugged into it. The apartment we live in has multiple power plugs in every room, but we must actually plug into the power source to benefit from it. The same is true of spiritual power. There is plenty available, but I must first unplug from other sources and plug into God’s Word and Spirit. I must unplug from lesser pursuits and plug into His Will and Ways. “God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power. He went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with him,” Acts 10:38 ESV. LORD, help me plug fully into Your power today as I walk before You. 

A PEOPLE OF PRAISE

“Oh come, let us sing to the Lord; let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation! Let us come into his presence with thanksgiving; let us make a joyful noise to him with songs of praise!” Psalm 95:1-2 ESV. The acts of praise and worship of God are not HIS need; they are OUR need. Worshipping our Maker and Master is daily re-alignment with our created purpose. Praise of God does not diminish who we are. It reveals who we are. We were created in His Image and were designed by God to be a people of praise: “The people whom I formed for myself that they might declare my praise,” Isaiah 43:21 ESV. How different would life be if we started to think of every facet of life as a way to glorify God? LORD, make me a man of praise and worship. May my life glorify You in all that I do today. This is the day You have made; I will rejoice and be glad in it!

ALWAYS PRESENT

“Where shall I go from your Spirit? Or where shall I flee from your presence?” Psalm 139:7 ESV. Time spent pondering the life-transforming power of God's Presence is time well-invested. Bidden, or not bidden, He is always near, yet He often remains unacknowledged. However, awareness and acknowledgment of His presence is a major game-changer. Upon awakening each day, I must recalibrate my mind, body, and spirit to recognize and welcome His Presence. Throughout each day I must practice disciplines that acknowledge His Presence. At the close of each day, I must rest in God’s Presence, casting all my cares upon Him, for He cares for me. Dearest Lord, grant me the grace to pull away from the dizzying anxieties of this world and lay my head on Your chest. Let my very breath rise and fall in cadence with Yours and help me be schooled in Your constant Presence. 

THE NAME

“Because he holds fast to me in love, I will deliver him; I will protect him because he knows my name,” Psalm 91:14 ESV. In the bible, there are actually many names for God, but why are there so many? The Lord, Our God’s greatness is simply beyond the capacity of one name to characterize His Majesty and Awesomeness. Like individual facets on a diamond, each name reflects the light of His Glory a little differently, each one reckoning upon different aspects of His power. His Name is not merely a moniker; when we speak His name in any biblical form, we are reckoning upon His very nature and power to transform. Not to be used as a magical incantation, one’s heart must seek the Lord Himself as we call on His Name. Father, El Shaddai, Elohim, Yahweh, LORD, to declare Your Name releases unquenchable joy and unmatchable power! In Your Name, it is well, it is well with my soul! 

THE TRIUMPH OF THE VANQUISHED

“The Lord will fight for you, and you have only to be silent,” Exodus 14:14 ESV. We each face battles that are not of our own choosing. Some are arbitrarily forced upon us by life’s circumstances, others come as a result of our own bad decisions. Many battles fall into the category of spiritual warfare while some are chosen for us by our heavenly Commander in Chief. Though the sources of our battles are many there is but one sure path to victory; we must embrace God’s promise, Trust in God alone must be the banner under which we march. Our self-dependence must first be vanquished by God’s wondrous love, then and only then we are ready to stand back and see God vanquish the enemy! Holy Father, my unruliness and fears are defeated by Your love, therefore I forge ahead in the triumph of the vanquished! 

STAND THE WATCH

“Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends,” John 15:13 ESV. I have never served in the U.S. military, but I have a deep, lifelong love and respect for those who have. I’ve never patrolled a dark street in a rough neighborhood as a police officer, nor have I run into a burning building to save a stranger as our brave first responders are willing to do every day. They also deserve our deepest respect. But I have stood the watch over the souls of family, friends, parishioners, and millions of strangers throughout the nations. I’ve fought the fight worldwide for the Jewish people's right to have a biblically promised homeland in Israel. God places each of us in this life with a mission of His design. It sometimes seems very noble and other times mundane. But we each must do our part. LORD, grant your grace to me this new day to finish the work to which You have called me. I pray as well for all who heed Your calling.   

HIDDEN TREASURES

“I rejoice at your word like one who finds great spoil,” Psalm 119:162 ESV. A stroll on a sandy beach provides hidden treasures placed there by the creative forethought of God. The ebb and flow of tides open the treasury of the seas for those who stroll along the shoreline. Over a lifetime I’ve stumbled upon shells that were nothing less than masterpieces of design and beauty. God sees to it that each day offers the same to all mankind, wherever we are on earth; hidden treasures carefully placed in life by the Hand of God. New friendships, beautiful sunsets, sweet sounds, amazing sights, wonderful smells, and rare moments are all there for the taking. The angels had it right: "Glory to God in the Highest, and goodwill toward mankind." Lord of Constant Wonders please teach me to slow my pace and pay greater attention to Your quiet handiwork. Open the eyes of my heart to Your daily divine deposits.

ABOVE ALL

“Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins,” I Peter 4:8 ESV. This command to “keep loving one another” would be pretty much impossible using average human love. As children, it’s pretty easy to love anybody, but as we grow older the disappointments of our lives begin to pile up like a rusting junkyard. Only the amazing Love of God can change that. Like a silent, overnight snowfall, His love blankets even the ugliest scenery and transforms our past junk into a beautiful landscape of learning and love. My sins, the sins of others, and the many disappointments of the past become irrelevant when the Son makes: "our sins, though they are as scarlet, they are whiter than snow”. Glorious God may Your love flow through me to others freely. May Your genuine love so overwhelm my lesser love so that my life can be one of true love for others.

ALREADY DELIVERED AND TRANSFERRED

“He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son,” Colossians 1:13 ESV. It is heartbreaking to see families torn apart, so much anger and hatred on public display, and evil ways on the rise. With increasing darkness all around, heaven looks more attractive than ever. But we do not have to wait for heaven to be delivered from evil, we have already been transferred into the kingdom of God. Though we are IN this world we are not slaves TO this world! So my prayer this day is that of King David: “Keep steady my steps according to your promise, and let no iniquity get dominion over me,” Psalm 119:133 ESV. As darkness deepens, even the smallest candle burns more brightly. We are light in this dark world, and I desire to shine as far and wide as The LORD wills. “Let   your   light   shine  before others,  so  that they may see  your  good works and give glory to  your  Father who is in heaven,” Matthew 5:16 ESV.  Father by Your grace make i

LIAR, LIAR

Paul warned Timothy long ago about things we see today on an ever-broadening scale: “evil people and impostors will go on from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived,” 2 Corinthians 3:13 ESV. This is nothing new. There have always been lies and liars, the deceived and the deceivers. So why does it seem to be worse in today’s world? Deception is simply more easily spread in the technological age in which we now live. But our protections from falsehood are as powerful and effective today as ever before. Daily prayer and study of Scripture, regular fellowship with mature believers, and the discernment granted by the Holy Spirit are more than sufficient to keep us stable in a roaring sea of lies. Remember, “He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world,” I John 4:4 ESV, so: “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful,” Colossians 3:15 ESV. LORD, keep me on course. Use me to guide others. 

VETERANS DAY

Working in Washington D.C. offers a unique experience and appreciation for Veterans Day. Last year as I walked along the National Mall on this day of remembrance, a group of ROTC in uniform were standing around a flag while being instructed by their leader. A few yards away a family picnicked on the grass. Groups of veterans on motorcycles were already beginning their weekend-long rides through the city, while overhead, two Blue and White Hueys thundered above, transporting Washington power players to their destination. I watched with special appreciation as I passed by the WW2 Memorial and the sea of names on the Vietnam Memorial. As I later cabbed from downtown D.C. to the airport, we passed the Washington Monument, the Lincoln Memorial, and the Jefferson Memorial. While crossing the Potomac on my way to Reagan National, I could easily see the Pentagon, the towering 9/11 Memorial, and off in the distance, Arlington Cemetery. I felt a mix of emotions as I prayed for this nation and fo

I TOO

“I know that you can do all things and that no purpose of yours can be thwarted,” Job 42:2 ESV. After Satan had robbed Job of his blessings, he questioned God’s authority and goodness. But in the end, he came to his senses. I do not need to experience Job’s journey to come to his final conclusion. I too can understand and confess the sovereignty, power, and goodness of The Almighty. I too can trust The LORD God no matter what comes. My confession can be that of King David’s: “For he will hide me in his shelter in the day of trouble; he will conceal me under the cover of his tent; he will lift me high upon a rock,” Psalm 27:5 ESV. I need not fear the future, “for God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble,” Psalm 46:1 ESV. LORD, deliver me from the foolishness of worry and self-dependence. Help me place my trust in YOU alone. 

BEHOLDING THE UNSEEN

“Then Elisha prayed and said, ‘O Lord, please open his eyes that he may see.’ So the Lord opened the eyes of the young man, and he saw, and behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha,” 2 Kings 6:17 ESV. Life would seem pretty hopeless at times if we were bound only to what we can see or perceive. To limit God’s promises and power to what we can conceive with our minds is foolish, indeed. The person of faith does not ignore facts; they simply see beyond them, beholding instead the things God has promised. I cannot glimpse forward with my eyes stuck in the past. I cannot look ahead with my eyes fixed on where I am now. But I CAN peer beyond the horizon by lifting my eyes to heaven’s promises. Oh LORD My Helper and Redeemer, You are, the Beginning and the End. Beholding You is to see what truly matters. Father, I lift my eyes to You.

DIVINE DELAYS

“Commit   your works to the Lord and your thoughts will be established,” Proverbs 16:3 NKJV. This verse makes it very clear that we must first commit what we do to God, and then, and only then, will His Perfect Will fully unfold. God will not commit His wisdom and resources to something not born of Him. Nor will He do so if we are not fully prepared to trust Him throughout. He is not holding back for His own sake alone, but as a Good Father, He delays for our sake as well: “For the sake of My name I delay My wrath, And for My praise, I restrain it for you in order not to cut you off,” Isaiah 48:9 ESV. In His mercy, He delays until we get on board. He waits so that we don’t get left behind and miss our calling, our created purpose, and our reward. Holy LORD, God of Mercy and Grace, thank You for Your kindness and patience toward Your children. 

SPECIAL SUPPLICATIONS

“First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people,   for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way,” 1 Timothy 2:1-2 ESV. This passage is so appropriate for this very moment, so today I will use it as a pattern for my morning prayer. Blessed Father, Maker of all people, Ruler of all things, I begin my prayers seeking Your salvation for ALL PEOPLE, especially in my beloved nation. I thank You for sending the peoples of the world to this special land. Empower us to love one another with Your burning love. Grant us grace to understand and cherish one another, especially in times of misunderstanding and turmoil. We remember before you our appointed leaders in high positions and ask that You grant them Your wisdom and guidance. And LORD, help me lead a peaceful, quiet, godly, and dignified life before others. Amen. 

I WAS ROBBED!

“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus,” Philippians 4:6-7 (NKJV). I was robbed recently. I was strolling along being thankful for so many things and it happened; a situation I have little control over and that I had already turned over to God came back to mind. I started worrying about it again and my peace was stolen. Actually, every time I am stressing over anything I am being robbed; robbed of God’s promises, robbed of sonship, and robbed of victory. "Be anxious for nothing" is not a suggestion, it is a Scriptural command that comes loaded with the backup of God's help. Father forgive my wanderings through the dark places of worry. You are The LORD My Light and The LORD My Victor! 

NO OTHER FOUNDATION

“Listen to me you who pursue righteousness. You who seek the LORD.  Look to the rock from which you were hewn and to the quarry from which you were dug,” Isaiah 51:1 (ESV). These are powerful, penetrating words spoken by God to His people. I can change my mind, I can change my location and I can change my priorities but I cannot reshape my foundation. Therefore, if I truly believe as did the psalmist that God “created my inward parts” and “knit me together in my mother's womb”, then I will not reject the LORD’s design on my life. No other foundation can support my calling and destiny; only the one from which I was hewn will suffice. No other life will fit the foundation already laid. Instead of wishing things were different, I must seek to understand and embrace the will of the LORD. Father, Your handiwork is perfect, I humbly yield to Your plan, purposes, and ways. You are my sure foundation.  

MISDIRECTED TRUST

“Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God,” Psalm 20:7 ESV. The psalmists’ song of praise reveals a powerful principle. Though King David was a famous warrior and a victor in many battles, he reminds us that trust in human resources is a fool’s choice. His words of praise are a clarion call to rise to a higher understanding of success. King Solomon writes: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths,” Proverbs 3:5-6 ESV. I cannot simply add “in the name of the LORD” to my own ideas or actions. I must first seek His will, obey His commands, trust in Him throughout every battle, and give praise to Him for every victory! O LORD My God and King, lead me in Your ways and deliver me from all misdirected trust.

TODAY AND TOMORROW

“Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God,” Romans 13:1 ESV. People of faith are often perplexed when dealing with governments.     Their authority is established by God, but they are not always godly. Today will be very trying for our nation, a major election always is. Today, EVERY VOTE MATTERS! Tomorrow, only the final count will matter. No matter what happens, God will remain on His throne and we as His people must go about honoring His choices. We can’t have it both ways, either Jesus is LORD or He’s not. So, I have voted, and the results are in God’s hands. Please vote. And tomorrow, please pray for the leader God chooses. And be nice about it. Kindness will be needed. Father, into Your Mighty hands I submit my choice, and I will accept Yours with grace and sincerity. 

BLANKETED

“Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean; wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow,” Psalm 51:7 ESV. A snowstorm can swiftly blanket the countryside, transforming the brown landscape of winter into a snowy wonderland. In the same manner, and by the same Mighty Hand that transforms our surrounding scenery, each new day my sins are blanketed by God’s mercy and my soul is restored. He diminishes my fears, moderates my imaginings, and destroys my tormentors. He transforms my sadness into shouts of joy, dispels my doubts, and calms my turmoil. He is the LORD of Hosts, My Glory, and the Lifter of My Head! O LORD, My God, and My King, You are great and greatly to be praised! Thank You for Your Daily Care and Constant Love. May my heart never forget Your Goodness and Mercy, not even for a moment. Use me to help others do the same.   

A THANKFUL HEART

“Be filled with the Spirit, speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord, giving thanks always for all things to God the Father,” Ephesians 5:19 NIV. The Apostle Paul wrote this in his letter to the Ephesians while chained in a Roman prison cell awaiting imminent execution. Praising while chained is impossible for someone with an empty heart. But praise with a thankful heart is one of the primary characteristics of a spirit-filled life. Outward circumstances may steal away the inner joy of a child of God for a moment, but a person with eternity in their heart returns to equilibrium. The biblical phrases “by Him,” “in Him,” “through Him,” not only point to the greatness and goodness of God, but they are also instructions for how to be joyful and thankful in any circumstance. LORD, this is the day You have made; I will rejoice and be glad in it! 

GROW UP!

“Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour,” 1 Peter 5:8 ESV. This wise counsel from the apostle Peter does not advise us to be fearful and worrisome; it is a call to spiritual maturity. In essence, he is saying: “grow up.” A child must learn about dangers, and unfortunately, that often creates fearfulness. But the mature mind learns that dangers must be managed and overcome. A lion’s roar has no power to harm, but it is definitely a warning to pay attention. Peter warns us that Satan is real and out there, and James assures us that we have authority over the devil in James 4:7 ESV: “ Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the  devil , and he  will   flee  from you." LORD, I thank You that even in the worst of life’s circumstances, we are “more than conquerors” because of Your great power and love! 

POLITE DISOBEDIENCE

“Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver,” 2 Corinthians 9:7 ESV. I can put a smile on my Heavenly Father’s face by my cheerful obedience! That is awesome! Since God sees into our souls as easily as looking into a fishbowl, grudging obedience will never suffice. Unless obedience is done promptly and with the right attitude it is nothing more than “polite disobedience”. While others may be fooled, the Lord Almighty knows the underlying thoughts and intentions of every person’s actions. Resentful obedience leaves us empty and does not produce in us the purpose God intends. Willing, prompt submissiveness releases joy in heaven and on earth! Oh Lord, Keeper of My Soul, teach me to love You without reservations in all that I do.

JUST PASSING THROUGH

“Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer,” Romans 12:12 ESV. This is such great counsel, especially during a national crisis. Our human response to upheaval is fear for the future, but our response as children of God should always be joyful hope, knowing that God is in control. These moments reveal who we really are and what we actually believe. The apostle Paul confided: “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to His purpose”. Romans 8:28 ESV. My response to a crisis reveals the depth of my love of God. This can be a painful discovery, but in the end, love will be deepened, and greater faith will rise from within. LORD, You are our hope and our salvation. Help me pay attention and not miss a thing as we pass through the fire. Give me the strength to help others.

TASTE AND SEE

“Taste and see that the Lord is good! Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him!” Psalm 34:8 ESV. Magnifying of the “goodness” of God, the psalmist advises: “taste and see”. I have always been pretty adventuresome so it’s perplexing to me when someone refuses to even sample something that others enjoy. Even more surprising to me is seeing someone decline to taste the goodness of the LORD. To allow apprehension to rob us of the fullness of God’s love is a travesty. Until information becomes experience it is, in essence, useless. Past disappointments or failures can linger a lifetime, stealing away new possibilities, yet mere moments of unfiltered acceptance of God’s goodness can wash them all away. One taste can open a whole new world of faith and eternal purpose. O LORD, my God, how majestic are Your ways! May Your goodness flow to me and through me this new day and forevermore. 

ANOTHER LAP

“For everything, there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven,” Ecclesiastes 3:11 ESV.   Each second of life is precious since  every moment on earth and in heaven is an irreplaceable gift of time from The One who holds eternity in His hand. God is in full control. I desire to make wise and effective use of this new day as it now unfolds. Without my Heavenly Father’s help, this would be impossible, but the gift of new opportunities to follow His instructions is accompanied by a daily allotment of grace, wisdom, and faith. There is no lack in God’s daily supply since He has already placed everything we need into this day before we arrived! So, I will boldly step ahead, knowing this has been previously prepared for my arrival. O LORD, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth! Teach me Your ways, and thank You for another lap.

ENVY

“A tranquil heart gives life to the flesh, but envy makes the bones rot,” Proverbs 14:30 ESV. Envy is often treated as a positive motivator, but it is a faith killer, a joy destroyer, and a scourge within the soul. Modern culture is at war against godliness in ways we often fail to see. The constant emphasis on wealth, popularity, and power pulls us in the wrong direction. Wishing that I had the good fortune of someone else seems innocent enough, but it is nothing more than old-fashioned envy. Envy displaces thankfulness and undermines trust in God. Rejoicing in God’s care and provision has the opposite effect; releasing hope and joy in my soul as I consider God’s goodness. Holy Father deliver me from the evil web of covetousness or jealousy. I am fully at peace with the course You have laid out for me. Your will is my delight and Your Joy is my strength! 

HEAVEN'S HUMBLE AFFECTION

“How precious is your steadfast love, O God! The children of mankind take refuge in the shadow of your wings,” Psalm 36:7 ESV. Blessings come in many ways. While some are huge and obvious most blessings arrive without fanfare and in simple forms: a beautiful horizon, a memory of someone special, a baby’s smile, a wonderful taste, or a gentle touch. As I reflect on how often God works unannounced, it strikes me how utterly unpretentious He is. The LORD can work on any scale and is worthy of all glory, yet He stoops low to quietly craft a constant stream of blessings into our lives. He does not hold back for our lack of acknowledgment. His unrequited love pours forth without restraint. Lord God, You are our Glorious Benefactor. Sin has dulled my senses and I am slow to see, but in this moment of reflective contrition, I glorify You and thank You for Your humble affection. Make me more like You, LORD. 

HAPPILY RESTING

“In all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us,” Romans 8:37 ESV. As a twelve-year-old Boy Scout, I was almost defeated by distance. Our troop was taken on a 20-mile hike in the heat of a Florida summer. I don’t even remember my troop leader’s name, but thanks to him, we all learned we could go much farther than we believed possible That 20-Mile Hike merit badge meant far more to me than the many others I had earned because it was a discovery of what is possible. I have since learned that “I can do all things through Him who gives me strength” Philippians 4:13 ESV. All but one thing that is, I cannot out-distance His love. After repeatedly passing through impossible circumstances as “more than a conqueror,” I am utterly overcome by My Savior’s amazing love and faithfulness. Dearest Father, I am not a wandering exile, You call me by name, You claim me as Your own. I happily rest in Your immeasurable love. 

HONESTY

“Speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ,” Ephesians 4:15 ESV. Typical “honesty” is often poorly timed and clumsily delivered. The reason for this is simple, the underlying motivation to the phrase: "let me be honest" is most often grounded in selfishness rather than divine love. God always speaks truth with the purest of motives while much of the time we do not. We mostly speak up when we are in fear of losing something or being harmed. Honesty in this case is no more than our intent to control our surroundings. God always speaks the truth as an act of love, granting the hearer the chance to know a perfect way forward. Father, You are Love and Truth, teach me Your ways. Purify my heart and put Your coals of fire to my lips. Help me “speak the truth in love”. 

HELP WANTED

“The Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words,” Romans 8:26 ESV. A “Help Wanted” sign posted in a store window is not an admission of weakness, it is a proclamation of strength! It is a declaration that there is plenty more to be accomplished and they are looking for someone to step up, join the team, and help make it happen! I need the Holy Spirit in the same way. I don’t just need rescue; I need a moment by moment partner that can help propel me to be the very best God has for me to do. I will never hear the words: “well-done thou good and faithful servant” without the empowering partnership of the Spirit of God. So here I am again today declaring “HELP WANTED”!! Father teach me to invite Your Spirit into full partnership in all that I do.

THE WALK OF FAITH

“For we walk by faith, not by sight”, 1 Corinthians 5:7 ESV. The walk of faith is not a singular climb up a solitary mountain, it is more akin to a trek across a mountain range. The faith journey comes with many highs and lows. There are glorious moments of breathtaking vistas never seen by the faint of heart. There are moments of exhausted arrivals to exhilarating heights, only to be followed by steep plunges through dark valleys. Such is the life of faith. The walk of faith tests everything within us and makes us stronger than we ever imagined. “For everyone who has been born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith,” 1 John 5:4 ESV. LORD, You never abandon your beloved in the swamplands nor upon the mountaintops. You always walk before us, behind us, beside us, and within us throughout the ups and downs of this life. Glory to You Lord God! 

WHAT TO WEAR TODAY?

“And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen His glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth,” John 1:14 ESV. How difficult must it have been for The Maker of All Things, The King of the Universe, The Creator of All Things, to clothe Himself in earthly flesh? Yet such is the love of the Living God! And now we must honor His sacrifice and “Put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to gratify its desires,” Romans 13:14 ESV. To be a faithful child God of we must dress the part. And what should our outerwear be in every season? “Clothe yourselves, all of you, with humility toward one another, for ‘God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble,’” 1 Peter 5:5 ESV. I slip into pride easily, but every vestige of arrogance must be stripped away. Good riddance! LORD, thank You for Your Mercy and Help.

CLIMB, STAND, WAIT, HEAR, SEE

“I will climb up to my watchtower and stand at my guardpost. There I will wait to see what the LORD says and how he will answer my complaint,” Habakkuk 2:1 NLT. There is a great outline for walking with God in this verse. First, we must “climb up”. We must determine to rise above the daily grind to seek God. Secondly, there is a prepared place in His Presence where only His children can stand before Him. “For in the day of trouble He will conceal me in His tabernacle" Psalm 27:4 ESV and “In distress, you called, and I delivered you; I answered you in the secret place,” Psalm 81:7 ESV. We must take our stand in faith and will see God’s answer. “Now, therefore, stand still and see this great thing that the Lord will do before your eyes,” I Samuel 12:16 ESV. So today I will climb to the “secret place”. There, I will take my stand to hear His Voice and see my Deliverance.

WAITING IS TRUSTING

“Wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the Lord!” Psalm 27:14 ESV. It requires courage to wait. Especially when needs are rising, and things are quickly heating up. Strangely, at the time of life when the grains of sand are slipping through the hourglass faster for me personally, I find it easier to wait on the LORD. I realize now more than ever that waiting is trusting and that God’s ways are far more trustworthy than my own. I also now have the advantage of having repeatedly experienced God’s provision arriving perfectly timed. But, of course, I could never recognize His perfect calibration until AFTERWARDS. So why should I fret about my chosen timetable when He is perfect? LORD, You are Alpha and Omega! You hold the universe in the palm of Your hand. I’m good with “making my requests known” while trusting You Will and Ways. 

THE GREAT ASSEMBLY

My foot stands on level ground; in the great assembly, I will bless the Lord,” Psalm 26:12 ESV. One of the things I see in this passage is the importance of the gathering of believers, especially in large assemblies. As complicated and imperfect as churches may be at times, there is simply no substitute for the grounding of our faith among the Assembly of God’s People. Seasoned saints mix with enthusiastic spiritual newborns; just as one is climbing out of a difficult situation, another is stumbling in. As one releases a loved one to heaven, another is cradling a newborn. The Word comes forth, prophetic clarity confirms, smiles appear along with tears, and my voice is joined with those around me as we sing praise to our God and King. It all has a way of leveling the ground and releasing praise from deep within my heart. LORD, my heart rejoices at the thought of praising in the assembly and one day joining the GREAT ASSEMBLY before Your Throne. 

MYSTERIES REVEALED

“This is how one should regard us, as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God,” 1 Corinthians 4:1 ESV. Like most people, I enjoy a good mystery, but I really dislike not knowing how to figure something out. The exception is when it comes to divine mysteries. While I am still just as curious, years of practice have taught me that spiritual mysteries may only be understood as God unfolds them in His own timing and His chosen way. And even then, there is always deeper truth embedded that may only be discerned by the divine revelation of His Word and Spirit. Again, in His time and in His way. No matter how brilliantly conceived, human formulas and deductive reasoning are useless in holy space. These mysteries may solely be revealed, not solved. Glorious God,  forgive my earthly attempts to uncover what You have hidden. Grant me grace and good discernment for the journey as mysteries unfold.

WE PROCLAIM HIM

“ Him we proclaim, warning everyone and teaching everyone with all wisdom, that we may present everyone mature in Christ,” Colossians 1:28 (ESV). We too, are called to “Proclaim Him”. We proclaim Him in our choices. We proclaim Him in our scheduled priorities. We proclaim Him in our acts of kindness. We proclaim Him in our forgiveness of others. We proclaim Him in our attitudes at work, home, travel, or play. We proclaim Him in our giving. We proclaim Him in our service to those in need. “You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden.   No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house.   In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father,” Matthew 5:14-16 (NLT). LORD, grant me the grace to do so loudly. 

GOD-BREATHED IDEAS

“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness,” 2 Timothy 3:16 NIV. This word, “GOD-BREATHED,” is the Greek translation of the     Hebrew word: “Ruach,” meaning: “wind,” “breath,” or “Spirit. Its counterpart in the New Testament is the Greek translation: “Pneuma. Like Ruwach, it also means: “wind,” “breath,” or “Spirit. Adam was no more than a formed figure of dust until the “breath” of God was blown into his nostrils. In that instant, his created purpose and the power and authority God designed him to possess were fully authorized by the Almighty! The same is true for each of us. Only God’s breath can give life to our created purpose. At this very moment, I am weighing multiple directions for my next years of ministry. Sharon & I are not done, and we want to finish well. But first, we need a fresh breath of God-Breathed Empowerment, God Promised Provision, God Directed Vision, and God-Given Favor. Well, I’m feeling be

A RIGHT TURN

“If you turn at my reproof, behold, I will pour out my spirit to you; I will make my words known to you,” Proverbs 1:23 ESV. What a wonderful promise from the Almighty! This short verse is loaded with the revelation of God’s nature and His intention when He rebukes us. His “reproof” is not out of anger; it is rooted in His passionate desire to “pour out” His Spirit upon us and to open to us a revelation of His Word! It is motivated by His intent to protect us from harm, and His eagerness to bless His beloved children! So then, what must I do? Upon hearing His reproof, I must stop, listen to His voice, and turn in the direction He desires. Repentance is not complicated. Repentance is turning in the right direction by making a right turn. LORD, open my ears to Your Voice, awaken my heart to Your Will, grant me an obedient heart, and turn me to Your Chosen Path. 

SELECTIVE INNOCENCE

“God, I thank you that I am not like other people—robbers, evildoers, adulterers—or even like this tax collector,” This an example of a useless prayer from the parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector. It is ugly to face, but even the most sincere person of faith will at some point or another consider themselves as more innocent than others. It usually sounds something like: “I may sin at times, but I would never do THAT!” How different is this from the prayer of the Pharisee? We must never pray in such an unfitting manner to the Holy One. Before Him, no earthly being can be justified by his own works. By making comparisons with anyone other than The Perfect One we reveal we have not progressed as far as we think. Merciful LORD, lead me in the way of humility and contrition. Deliver me from limiting Your divine work in me by unholy comparisons to others. I cast myself into the depths of Your limitless grace. 

MISUNDERSTANDINGS

 “How can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when there is the log in your own eye?” Matthew 7:4 ESV. Jesus often used illustrations to help us understand the truth, but this was one of His best ones. A “log in your eye”! It's so absurd, even comical, but his illustration brings truth right to where it is needed. Even after a lifetime together, Sharon & I must still navigate occasional misunderstandings. We discovered long ago that the answer to progress is definitely not to defend a previously held viewpoint, but rather, to seek to truly understand. That’s what love does. As we are told in 1 Corinthians 13: “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no account of wrongs.” LORD, help me continually walk in love. May Your great love so overwhelm my heart and mind that lingering selfishness will be swallowed up in glorious victory.

THE TRIUMPH OF THE SILENT

“ The Lord will fight for you, and you have only to be silent,” Exodus 14:14 ESV.  We each face battles that are not of our own choosing. Some are arbitrarily forced upon us by life’s circumstances, others come as a result of our own bad decisions. Many battles fall into the category of spiritual warfare while some are chosen for us by our heavenly Commander in Chief. Though the sources of our battles are many there is but one sure path to victory; trust in God alone must be the banner under which we march. In Psalm 131:2 The Psalmist proclaimed: “I have calmed and quieted my soul”.  Our self-dependence must first be vanquished by God’s wondrous love. Only then are we ready to stand back and see God vanquish the enemy as we silently behold His work. Holy Father, my unruliness and fears are defeated by Your love, therefore I forge ahead in the triumph of the silent! 

FRAUGHT WITH OVERTHOUGHT

“Whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things,” Philippians 4:8 (ESV). Today I will think thousands of thoughts. Neuroscientists estimate the average person has a from 20,000 “present moment” thoughts per day up to as many as 70,000! I often over-think problems, mulling over the same details, ad nauseam. I do this in spite of knowing that the answers I most often seek come from God alone. Yet, I ponder, reflect, get advice, ruminate, and keep trying to figure it all out. Will I never learn? An overcharged mind is no substitute for a heart that is open to God’s voice of wisdom. Blessed Lord Our Maker, Fountain of Wisdom, help me stay in perfect peace as my thoughts are steady upon You. When my mind drifts away, pull me back to Your thoughts, Your ways, Your Promises. 

TENDING THE SOIL

“He who tends a fig tree will eat its fruit,” Proverbs 27:8 ESV. The life-lesson here is simple, God provides the ecosystem for life and the beauty of His creation, but things must be tended for maximum value and fruitfulness. He provides the seed, but we must tend the soil. As far back as I can remember my mother loved to work with plants. She had a true gift for gardening. Therefore, beautiful flowers and greenery always surrounded her homes. Though I am truly dependent upon God’s care and provision, I too must do my part. And while I may not always understand the “why” of what I’m doing, my heart is trained and calibrated to hear His voice and to obey His choices. Lord of All Creation, help me to recognize priorities and faithfully tend to those things, both material and spiritual that require my full attention and effort. 

GOD'S HOLY GRIP

“Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time, He may exalt you,” 1 Peter 5:6 ESV. I am well acquainted with God’s Holy Grip. When I press in, it is gentle but powerful. In moments when I’m being pulled away or straining against His Holy Hand, I feel His heavenly grasp tighten, His divine clench stiffening. There is no escape from the Good Shepherd’s Hand. There are those startling moments of His Hand pushing me forward or of my feet dangling over a precipice, yet still, I am held firmly as He promises in  Psalm 139:10 ESV, “Even there your hand shall lead me, and your right hand shall hold me.”Father, I thank You for Your Mighty Handhold upon me. With Your loving touch, You uphold me, guide me, prod me, restrain me, discipline, and comfort me. I am eternally thankful, You never let go of me! 

THE STAGE

  “He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me,” 2 Corinthians 12:9 ESV. To openly live a life of faith is not a proclamation of personal perfection. In fact, the opposite is true as His endless grace is constantly needed in response to my many weaknesses. My imperfections are the stage upon which the amazing grace and relentless love of God are displayed. In my weaknesses, His awesome strength is discovered and brought to the forefront. Foolish attempts to gloss over our foibles present a false image of the believer’s life and in the end, do more harm than good. Lord, You are my Fortress and Deliverer. May my failings spotlight Your exquisiteness. May my need for constant redemption encourage others to seek the same. 

PRUNED

“Every branch in me that does not bear fruit He takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes that it may bear more fruit,” John 15:2 ESV. The first time I saw a rose bush properly  p runed it stunned me. I watched as a friend hacked away at a healthy-looking plant. By the time he was finished, the pruned plant was a stick-like shadow of its former self; I thought it was ruined, but I was wrong. As it turned out, it grew beautiful and productive later that spring, pruning had made it healthier and more dazzling than ever. The LORD is faithful to prune my life when it is necessary, and so He does again and again. While it is uncomfortable to face this process each time, springtime’s bounty always comes. Father, You are the Great and Mighty Gardener, and I am the willing target of Your handiwork. I am thankful for the pruning You see fit, and I welcome Your holy work in me.

IRON SHARPENS IRON

“Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another,” Proverbs 27:17 ESV. One of life’s hard-learned realities is that human interaction is characteristically confrontational. So, it should be no surprise that at some point every relationship confronts imbedded selfishness, fears, or other hidden issues within our souls. Interaction with others helps shape us into sharper, better people, however, reacting negatively to the sharpening process will only guarantee it will last much longer than necessary. Confrontation without ensuing bitterness is one of life’s greatest gifts; providing a powerful, regenerative and transformative force of good that will last for a lifetime. Lord, You are the Potter and I am the clay. Make and mold me into the man that pleases you. Thank you for each of those whom You use to help shape me and use me to help sharpen others. 

SAFELY CONNECTED

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths,” Proverbs 3:5-6 ESV. The International Space Station must be supplied and maintained regularly. No matter how capable the astronauts and ground control personnel are, docking in space is so complex it must be turned over to autopilot. Only by yielding complete control to the navigation and control computers can they safely connect. I face the same issue each and every day. Only heaven’s navigation and control system can safely dock my heart with God’s. I too must release the process to God’s absolute control, not my own. Blessed LORD, by Your hand alone may we enter into Your presence. To You Who reigns over all in awesome power, be glory forever and ever. 

JUST HEAVENLY

“Then I looked, and I heard around the throne and the living creatures and the elders the voice of many angels, numbering myriads of myriads and thousands of thousands,” Revelation 5:11 ESV. Even a casual peek through the biblical window into the Heavenly City reveals a miraculous place. There is no sorrow, crying, or pain. There is only unbounded joy and unbroken praise. Things considered so precious here on earth will be no more than pavement and building material in the New Jerusalem. It is a city resplendent with the Light of Our Savior. There is a Sea of Glass, a heavenly host beyond counting and angels more numerous than grains of sand on the seashore. Is it any wonder that God sends miracles into this world to proclaim the nature of the world to come! Lord God of Beauty and Power beyond description, I welcome Your marvels and mighty works in this world that announce a miraculous eternity in the next. Come quickly, LORD. 

SHINE

“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden,” Matthew 5:14 ESV. A single candle can change the ambiance of a darkened room. Even the smallest amount of light has a powerful effect on darkness. Throughout the years I’ve heard a lot of negative sounding comments from Christians about how the world around us seems to be “getting darker”. That may in fact be so, but it’s great news! Whatever light that dwells within me will now be more easily visible than ever! In Matthew 5:16 Jesus commands: “Let you’re your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” My role as a believer is not complicated, I must simply live the life of faith openly before others. I don’t need to put on a Jesus Show, I just need to be a believer. LORD, do Your work in me that I may shine brightly. 

WITH HIM

“For as by the one man's disobedience the many were made sinners, so by the one man's obedience the many will be made righteous,” Romans 5:19 ESV. To the same extent that Adam’s sin condemned all mankind, the obedience of Jesus made all who put their trust In Him righteous. Sin is our downfall, but God “ raised   us up   with   him   and seated us   with   him   in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus .” Ephesians 2:6 ESV. By the grace of God, I’ve been escorted into some very amazing places. But I was not allowed in because of who I am personally, I was allowed in because of who I was with. Yet, the greatest gate that still awaits my arrival is the entry into heaven. I will enter it, but again, not because of who I am, but because of who I am with. WITH HIM, BY HIM, THROUGH HIM, such powerful words, such wonderful blessings, such glorious promises! LORD, You are so good!