Read Psalm 119:105-112
Read 1 Samuel 13
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Monday, August 30, 2010
Thunder
Read Psalm 119:97-104 (Mem)
Read 1 Samuel 12
Though it was not the season for rain, Samuel prays to the Lord for some thunder. When God obliges, the people tremble. What's the point? The point is that we should be careful to walk in the ways of the Lord. We keep hearing it in Psalm 119 - God's commands, his statutes, his instruction, his law, all of it is good and beneficial for us.
Samuel recounts briefly a piece of Israel's history. No doubt they had all heard of Moses and Aaron in the past. No doubt many of them experienced the trauma of fighting with the enemy in the recent past. Yet they still cried out for a king. They didn't want God to work the way he was pleased to work. They didn't want him to speak through prophets and to save with judges (deliverers). They wanted to be like all the other nations. Samuel calls this a great evil.
Their problem was not only that, but idolatrous and adulterous worship of false gods as well. Joshua reminds them why troubles had come upon them, and severely warns them to be obedient. And when God thunders a warning at Samuel's request, the people are panicked.
How terrified we would be too if we were to hear God's voice thunder down from Mt. Sinai (Exodus 20:18-21), or if we heard God thunder in the dry season at the request of a man of God. We would tremble because we know that we have fallen short of what God commands. What human is truly able to delight in God's Word as much as Psalm 119 describes? What human can keep the first table of the law, and love God with all his heart, soul, mind, and strength? What human has perfect love for fellow humans and always acts in their best interest?
None. None, that is, except Jesus alone. Though God thunders at us through his Word, in his Word we also hear the sweet Gospel! It is the chirping of the bird after the thunderstorm. It is the rainbow after the dark, wet clouds have passed. It is the burst of sunshine to pierce the steamy fog of a summer rain. Sure God's thunder is terrifying, but Jesus willingly suffered that thunder on the cross for us. Our punishment is his. His life is ours. What a blessed exchange!
Now we still bristle when God thunders at us, but we also quickly flee to the cross. There we find our security, our assurance, our hope and peace and joy. There we have sweet protection and refuge from the wrath of God. There we have the promise of paradise. That is always reason to rejoice! Thanks be to God!
Pray:
Pray from your heart today. Confess what is weighing down upon you heavily. Tell God those secrets, those hidden sins. Then thank Him that he sent Jesus to suffer the thundering wrath of God for you. Ask God to help you by the power of his Spirit to live for him.
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Read 1 Samuel 12
Though it was not the season for rain, Samuel prays to the Lord for some thunder. When God obliges, the people tremble. What's the point? The point is that we should be careful to walk in the ways of the Lord. We keep hearing it in Psalm 119 - God's commands, his statutes, his instruction, his law, all of it is good and beneficial for us.
Samuel recounts briefly a piece of Israel's history. No doubt they had all heard of Moses and Aaron in the past. No doubt many of them experienced the trauma of fighting with the enemy in the recent past. Yet they still cried out for a king. They didn't want God to work the way he was pleased to work. They didn't want him to speak through prophets and to save with judges (deliverers). They wanted to be like all the other nations. Samuel calls this a great evil.
Their problem was not only that, but idolatrous and adulterous worship of false gods as well. Joshua reminds them why troubles had come upon them, and severely warns them to be obedient. And when God thunders a warning at Samuel's request, the people are panicked.
How terrified we would be too if we were to hear God's voice thunder down from Mt. Sinai (Exodus 20:18-21), or if we heard God thunder in the dry season at the request of a man of God. We would tremble because we know that we have fallen short of what God commands. What human is truly able to delight in God's Word as much as Psalm 119 describes? What human can keep the first table of the law, and love God with all his heart, soul, mind, and strength? What human has perfect love for fellow humans and always acts in their best interest?
None. None, that is, except Jesus alone. Though God thunders at us through his Word, in his Word we also hear the sweet Gospel! It is the chirping of the bird after the thunderstorm. It is the rainbow after the dark, wet clouds have passed. It is the burst of sunshine to pierce the steamy fog of a summer rain. Sure God's thunder is terrifying, but Jesus willingly suffered that thunder on the cross for us. Our punishment is his. His life is ours. What a blessed exchange!
Now we still bristle when God thunders at us, but we also quickly flee to the cross. There we find our security, our assurance, our hope and peace and joy. There we have sweet protection and refuge from the wrath of God. There we have the promise of paradise. That is always reason to rejoice! Thanks be to God!
Pray:
Pray from your heart today. Confess what is weighing down upon you heavily. Tell God those secrets, those hidden sins. Then thank Him that he sent Jesus to suffer the thundering wrath of God for you. Ask God to help you by the power of his Spirit to live for him.
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Saturday, August 28, 2010
Friday, August 27, 2010
Another Heart
Read Psalm 119:81-88 (Kaph)
Read 1 Samuel 10
Today we see a continuation of yesterday's lesson. God has it all planned out to have Saul anointed king. The events happen exactly as Samuel prophesied. Even in the casting of lots they did not arrive at a different conclusion. It is incredible to see God's plan unfold!
Today we have another lesson couched in some powerful and curious expressions. Samuel says in verse 6 that God will change Saul into another man. Then in verse 9 we also hear that God gave him another heart. And the reason? We see in verses 6 and 10 that the Spirit of God rushed upon him. Wow! God's Spirit is transformative and it turned Saul from a shy young man into a bold and confident leader.
Has the Spirit of God rushed upon us? In some Christian circles they think that they have the Spirit only if they have some sort of ecstatic experience. But our assurance is not in some state of euphoria or charismatic chatter, rather, our assurance is in the means of grace, that is, what God promised to use for the sending of his Spirit.
And what are those means? We learn from Scripture that they are Baptism, Holy Communion, and the Word of God (specifically the Gospel). We would want something flashier if it were up to us, I'm sure. But this is what God has promised, and so we ought to rejoice that he does extraordinary things by his Spirit through such ordinary looking instruments (water, word, bread, wine).
But they are certainly transformative! Through these God forgives us our many, many sins. We are regenerated and renewed. We are given a new life! We are changed from poor miserable sinners into mighty and valiant saints! We may not be kings and queens of earthly nations, but we know that we are more than conquerors through Christ. As was said of Saul, we each are changed into another man (or woman) and given another heart.
...Another heart for loving and trusting God above all things. Another heart for showing mercy and compassion on our fellow humans.
So, yes, go and dare to be different. Dare to be new. His Spirit is upon you. Indeed, it has rushed upon you. Go in the strength of his might.
Pray:
Pray from your heart today concerning this new life you have been given. Thank him for forgiveness, and ask him for strength that you might live for God and serve others as you ought.
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Read 1 Samuel 10
Today we see a continuation of yesterday's lesson. God has it all planned out to have Saul anointed king. The events happen exactly as Samuel prophesied. Even in the casting of lots they did not arrive at a different conclusion. It is incredible to see God's plan unfold!
Today we have another lesson couched in some powerful and curious expressions. Samuel says in verse 6 that God will change Saul into another man. Then in verse 9 we also hear that God gave him another heart. And the reason? We see in verses 6 and 10 that the Spirit of God rushed upon him. Wow! God's Spirit is transformative and it turned Saul from a shy young man into a bold and confident leader.
Has the Spirit of God rushed upon us? In some Christian circles they think that they have the Spirit only if they have some sort of ecstatic experience. But our assurance is not in some state of euphoria or charismatic chatter, rather, our assurance is in the means of grace, that is, what God promised to use for the sending of his Spirit.
And what are those means? We learn from Scripture that they are Baptism, Holy Communion, and the Word of God (specifically the Gospel). We would want something flashier if it were up to us, I'm sure. But this is what God has promised, and so we ought to rejoice that he does extraordinary things by his Spirit through such ordinary looking instruments (water, word, bread, wine).
But they are certainly transformative! Through these God forgives us our many, many sins. We are regenerated and renewed. We are given a new life! We are changed from poor miserable sinners into mighty and valiant saints! We may not be kings and queens of earthly nations, but we know that we are more than conquerors through Christ. As was said of Saul, we each are changed into another man (or woman) and given another heart.
...Another heart for loving and trusting God above all things. Another heart for showing mercy and compassion on our fellow humans.
So, yes, go and dare to be different. Dare to be new. His Spirit is upon you. Indeed, it has rushed upon you. Go in the strength of his might.
Pray:
Pray from your heart today concerning this new life you have been given. Thank him for forgiveness, and ask him for strength that you might live for God and serve others as you ought.
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Thursday, August 26, 2010
No Accident
Read Psalm 119:73-80 (Yodh)
Read 1 Samuel 9
My wife gets very frustrated with herself when she forgets to buy an item or two when she does her grocery shopping. It doesn't happen a lot, but every so often I'll have to make a special trip, or stop by on my way home from work to get just a couple things.
Sometimes it takes me a LONG TIME! In fact, it happened just a couple days ago. I was going to run in for a 2 things, but I bumped into someone I hadn't seen in a while. Actually, he saw me and ran me down because he had something he needed to tell me. This happens to pastors a lot. Thankfully, this time it was good news. I love hearing good news.
Then, when I was about to get into my car, the man who got out of the truck next to me was another someone I hadn't seen in a long time, someone who also had some stuff to tell me. Thankfully, this was good news too. I love hearing good news.
And I had a response for both of these individuals that I hope was helpful to them. I think they needed to see me and hear what I had to say. There is a reason I had to go to the grocery store precisely at 4:15 p.m. Some pastors like to call these "divine appointments." They were planned meetings, appointments made by God. They just weren't written in my handy dandy Thrivent calendar/planner!
Saul had a divine appointment in our 1 Samuel 9 reading today. There was a planned meeting, but Saul just didn't know it yet. There was a reason the donkeys went missing. It was no accident. Neither was it a coincidence that the servant recommended seeing the "man of God." (always good advice! - go seek out the wisdom of God!)
And Samuel clearly had the meal and everything prepared, knowing that God would keep his word and would carry out everything just as he said. It really is quite a remarkable story! And very encouraging!
Jesus' journey to the cross was no accident either. Everything was planned. All was prepared. It happened just the way it was supposed to. We truly have a powerful God! And a loving God - we can't forget that. God has the power to arrange things how he wills. And if he wanted to arrange it for our doom? - there would be no escaping it! But he has arranged it for our good, our forgiveness, life, and salvation!
Overwhelming? Feel like you don't deserve it? Wonder why God is so good to you? Join the club. We can only rejoice in his mercy and grace!
...and seek to make the most out of the divine appointments set before us. God will give you the words! Be bold!
Ask Yourself:
Do I believe in coincidence? Or do I believe that God directs it?
Knowing that I will have divine appointments, what can I do to be prepared?
What will be my response today for all of God's goodness in directing my life?
Pray:
"Give me the confidence of faith to look beyond the petty concerns of my daily life, Lord. Especially as I gather for worship with my fellow sisters and brothers, let me see Your divine and gracious will for me." (TLSB p. 447). Help me also to be prepared to speak your Word and tell of your love when I have opportunity. Guide me always, and use me for your gracious purposes. Amen.
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Read 1 Samuel 9
My wife gets very frustrated with herself when she forgets to buy an item or two when she does her grocery shopping. It doesn't happen a lot, but every so often I'll have to make a special trip, or stop by on my way home from work to get just a couple things.
Sometimes it takes me a LONG TIME! In fact, it happened just a couple days ago. I was going to run in for a 2 things, but I bumped into someone I hadn't seen in a while. Actually, he saw me and ran me down because he had something he needed to tell me. This happens to pastors a lot. Thankfully, this time it was good news. I love hearing good news.
Then, when I was about to get into my car, the man who got out of the truck next to me was another someone I hadn't seen in a long time, someone who also had some stuff to tell me. Thankfully, this was good news too. I love hearing good news.
And I had a response for both of these individuals that I hope was helpful to them. I think they needed to see me and hear what I had to say. There is a reason I had to go to the grocery store precisely at 4:15 p.m. Some pastors like to call these "divine appointments." They were planned meetings, appointments made by God. They just weren't written in my handy dandy Thrivent calendar/planner!
Saul had a divine appointment in our 1 Samuel 9 reading today. There was a planned meeting, but Saul just didn't know it yet. There was a reason the donkeys went missing. It was no accident. Neither was it a coincidence that the servant recommended seeing the "man of God." (always good advice! - go seek out the wisdom of God!)
And Samuel clearly had the meal and everything prepared, knowing that God would keep his word and would carry out everything just as he said. It really is quite a remarkable story! And very encouraging!
Jesus' journey to the cross was no accident either. Everything was planned. All was prepared. It happened just the way it was supposed to. We truly have a powerful God! And a loving God - we can't forget that. God has the power to arrange things how he wills. And if he wanted to arrange it for our doom? - there would be no escaping it! But he has arranged it for our good, our forgiveness, life, and salvation!
Overwhelming? Feel like you don't deserve it? Wonder why God is so good to you? Join the club. We can only rejoice in his mercy and grace!
...and seek to make the most out of the divine appointments set before us. God will give you the words! Be bold!
Ask Yourself:
Do I believe in coincidence? Or do I believe that God directs it?
Knowing that I will have divine appointments, what can I do to be prepared?
What will be my response today for all of God's goodness in directing my life?
Pray:
"Give me the confidence of faith to look beyond the petty concerns of my daily life, Lord. Especially as I gather for worship with my fellow sisters and brothers, let me see Your divine and gracious will for me." (TLSB p. 447). Help me also to be prepared to speak your Word and tell of your love when I have opportunity. Guide me always, and use me for your gracious purposes. Amen.
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
God's Word
Today I'll have a comment on Psalm 119 (actually, it will be Luther's comment), which is a long acrostic poem, meaning that each line of each section starts with the same Hebrew letter. For example, in verses 1-8 each line begins with the letter Aleph.
Tomorrow I'll have a comment on our 1 Samuel reading. A lot has been going on there, and tomorrow we will read about the choosing of Saul to be king.
Read 1 Samuel 8
Read Psalm 119:65-72 (Teth)
"The 119th psalm is a long psalm, containing prayers, comforts, instructions, and thanks in great number. It is chiefly written to make us excited about God's Word. It praises God's Word throughout and warns us against both the false teachers and against boredom and contempt for the Word. Therefore, it is primarily to be counted among the psalms of comfort. Its primary concern is that we have God's Word in its purity and hear it gladly. From this concern, then, come powerful prayers, instructions, thanks, prophecies, worship of God, suffering, and all that pleases God and grieves the devil. But where one despises the Word and is satiated by it, there all these cease. For where the Word is not purely taught, there is truly an abundance of prayers, instructions, comforts, worship, suffering, and prophecies - but totally false and condemned! For it is then only service to the devil, who is thus impure with all his heretics." (Reading the Psalms with Luther, CPH).
What a blessing it is that God has given his Word for our correction, strengthening, even enlivening. May we always be hungry and thirsty for it, and never completely satisfied. For we know that in the sin and weakness of this life we will never be without need for it. So if we think or feel that we are finished with the Word and that it is not useful, then we are sorely deceived by the devil.
But, eager to hear God speak reconciliation to us broken sinners, we read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest the Word. Yes, we are eager for it, because we know it has great value above and far beyond anything else in this world. Even as we prayed in verse 72 today, "The law of your mouth is better to me than thousands of gold and silver pieces."
Indeed, many would trade the Bible for lots of money. But may we be the opposite, and be willing to surrender earthly riches and luxuries so that we might have the Word ruling over us. May it be in our hearts and in our brains. May it be evident in our lives. Amen!
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Tomorrow I'll have a comment on our 1 Samuel reading. A lot has been going on there, and tomorrow we will read about the choosing of Saul to be king.
Read 1 Samuel 8
Read Psalm 119:65-72 (Teth)
"The 119th psalm is a long psalm, containing prayers, comforts, instructions, and thanks in great number. It is chiefly written to make us excited about God's Word. It praises God's Word throughout and warns us against both the false teachers and against boredom and contempt for the Word. Therefore, it is primarily to be counted among the psalms of comfort. Its primary concern is that we have God's Word in its purity and hear it gladly. From this concern, then, come powerful prayers, instructions, thanks, prophecies, worship of God, suffering, and all that pleases God and grieves the devil. But where one despises the Word and is satiated by it, there all these cease. For where the Word is not purely taught, there is truly an abundance of prayers, instructions, comforts, worship, suffering, and prophecies - but totally false and condemned! For it is then only service to the devil, who is thus impure with all his heretics." (Reading the Psalms with Luther, CPH).
What a blessing it is that God has given his Word for our correction, strengthening, even enlivening. May we always be hungry and thirsty for it, and never completely satisfied. For we know that in the sin and weakness of this life we will never be without need for it. So if we think or feel that we are finished with the Word and that it is not useful, then we are sorely deceived by the devil.
But, eager to hear God speak reconciliation to us broken sinners, we read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest the Word. Yes, we are eager for it, because we know it has great value above and far beyond anything else in this world. Even as we prayed in verse 72 today, "The law of your mouth is better to me than thousands of gold and silver pieces."
Indeed, many would trade the Bible for lots of money. But may we be the opposite, and be willing to surrender earthly riches and luxuries so that we might have the Word ruling over us. May it be in our hearts and in our brains. May it be evident in our lives. Amen!
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
Monday, August 23, 2010
Saturday, August 21, 2010
Friday, August 20, 2010
Ichabod
Read Psalm 119:33-40 (He)
Read 1 Samuel 4
What a sad story is the birth of Ichabod! This little newborn's mother, recently widowed, does not even seem joyous at his birth. The grief of her husband's death seems to have set her into labor, and it appears that she is in shock. Never mind all the speculation as to what she might be thinking, feeling, or experience. Her words tell us all we need to know. "The glory of God has left."
And why was it? Because Israel was wicked, especially it's leading priests. Phineas and Hophni had no command from God to go up and fight against the Philistines. Yet they decided to try. And what's worse, they decided to treat the ark of the covenant as a good luck charm. Surely, they thought, it would bring them success in their battle! Funny that they don't give a rip about God's commands or about reverent and appropriate service in God's temple. They didn't care what God said. They didn't care what the people they abused said. They did what they wanted to do, and then trusted in a good luck charm to help them.
Do we treat our crosses as good luck charms? Far be it from us! Of course it is good to have crosses about to remind us of our Savior...so long as they actually do remind us of our Savior! But I should be sufficiently warned by this reading against living however sinfully I darn well please, yet trusting in a piece of jewelry to help me. The cross is not a good luck charm. It is an instrument of torture, an execution devise that killed my Lord.
And I was the one who crucified him.
That's a serious message. That's reason to treat the cross with respect and remember the sacrifice of our Lord. That is reason to cling to the cross with repentance and trusting faith. It's not a charm, but it is forgiveness. It is help and strength in time of need. It is life and peace and joy.
No longer do I need to be an Ichabod - a person unloved, a symbol of departed glory. No, because of Christ, I am God's own son. And through faith you are His son or daughter too. Therefore, let us joyfully walk in his ways!
Pray:
Lord God, let your glory never depart from me! I freely confess my sin and beg you to forgive. Always be near with your mercy as you have promised. Be my help and strength as you have promised. Help me by the might of your Spirit to bring glory to your name in my words and actions, even in the thoughts and feelings of my heart. I am yours. Save me. Amen.
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Read 1 Samuel 4
What a sad story is the birth of Ichabod! This little newborn's mother, recently widowed, does not even seem joyous at his birth. The grief of her husband's death seems to have set her into labor, and it appears that she is in shock. Never mind all the speculation as to what she might be thinking, feeling, or experience. Her words tell us all we need to know. "The glory of God has left."
And why was it? Because Israel was wicked, especially it's leading priests. Phineas and Hophni had no command from God to go up and fight against the Philistines. Yet they decided to try. And what's worse, they decided to treat the ark of the covenant as a good luck charm. Surely, they thought, it would bring them success in their battle! Funny that they don't give a rip about God's commands or about reverent and appropriate service in God's temple. They didn't care what God said. They didn't care what the people they abused said. They did what they wanted to do, and then trusted in a good luck charm to help them.
Do we treat our crosses as good luck charms? Far be it from us! Of course it is good to have crosses about to remind us of our Savior...so long as they actually do remind us of our Savior! But I should be sufficiently warned by this reading against living however sinfully I darn well please, yet trusting in a piece of jewelry to help me. The cross is not a good luck charm. It is an instrument of torture, an execution devise that killed my Lord.
And I was the one who crucified him.
That's a serious message. That's reason to treat the cross with respect and remember the sacrifice of our Lord. That is reason to cling to the cross with repentance and trusting faith. It's not a charm, but it is forgiveness. It is help and strength in time of need. It is life and peace and joy.
No longer do I need to be an Ichabod - a person unloved, a symbol of departed glory. No, because of Christ, I am God's own son. And through faith you are His son or daughter too. Therefore, let us joyfully walk in his ways!
Pray:
Lord God, let your glory never depart from me! I freely confess my sin and beg you to forgive. Always be near with your mercy as you have promised. Be my help and strength as you have promised. Help me by the might of your Spirit to bring glory to your name in my words and actions, even in the thoughts and feelings of my heart. I am yours. Save me. Amen.
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Thursday, August 19, 2010
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Great Reversal
Read Psalm 119:17-24 (Gimel)
Read 1 Samuel 2
Yesterday we heard about Hannah's grief, and about how God heard and answered her prayer. Today we see her sing a song of praise. A major theme in this song (very much like Mary's Magnificat) is that God pulls a great reversal on mankind. The wicked are brought low, but the righteous are raised up. The proud, haughty, well-off, rich, full, satiated, all are brought down (and of course these are spiritual conditions; we're not just talking about how much stuff someone has). But the poor, the barren, the humble and lowly are raised up.
Indeed, after her song we see this played out in the narrative. We see the author go back and forth. Hophni and Phineas, the wicked priests, are abusive and crass. They have lots of power. Then we see little Samuel slowly grow. Then we see more abuses of Hophni and Phineas. Then we see little Samuel grow a little more. Then we hear judgment pronounced on the wicked priests, and a promise given about a faithful priest that will be raised up (...a prophecy that is begun to be fulfilled in Samuel but also ultimately points to the Prophet, Jesus Christ).
Indeed, in Jesus we see the greatest reversal. God becomes a man, a humble servant. This servant is poor and lowly. He slowly grows in stature and gains the respect of God and man. He serves humbly. He is obedient. He puts everyone before himself. He even goes to the cross in obedience. The sinless one becomes sin for us, that we might be raised, lifted up, and exalted. Yes, we are given forgiveness, life, and salvation because of this great and incredible reversal of Jesus Christ! Thanks be to God!
And of course, we remember another great reversal, that Jesus rose from the dead and swings open the gates of heaven, where he rules and reigns over all things in heaven and on earth.
So, while it seems here that the wicked persevere and prosper while the righteous in Christ suffer, we know that the greatest reversal has already taken place, and it's only a matter of time until we behold all its implications with our own eyes. How I long for that day!
Pray:
"Thank You, Lord, for all Your gifts to us. Let our joy be complete as we offer ourselves and our children to You and to each other in love. Thank You, Lord, for Your unfailing love and faithfulness to us. Bless us in faithful service to You, to our family, and in our callings." (TLSB p. 436, 438).
Read 1 Samuel 2
Yesterday we heard about Hannah's grief, and about how God heard and answered her prayer. Today we see her sing a song of praise. A major theme in this song (very much like Mary's Magnificat) is that God pulls a great reversal on mankind. The wicked are brought low, but the righteous are raised up. The proud, haughty, well-off, rich, full, satiated, all are brought down (and of course these are spiritual conditions; we're not just talking about how much stuff someone has). But the poor, the barren, the humble and lowly are raised up.
Indeed, after her song we see this played out in the narrative. We see the author go back and forth. Hophni and Phineas, the wicked priests, are abusive and crass. They have lots of power. Then we see little Samuel slowly grow. Then we see more abuses of Hophni and Phineas. Then we see little Samuel grow a little more. Then we hear judgment pronounced on the wicked priests, and a promise given about a faithful priest that will be raised up (...a prophecy that is begun to be fulfilled in Samuel but also ultimately points to the Prophet, Jesus Christ).
Indeed, in Jesus we see the greatest reversal. God becomes a man, a humble servant. This servant is poor and lowly. He slowly grows in stature and gains the respect of God and man. He serves humbly. He is obedient. He puts everyone before himself. He even goes to the cross in obedience. The sinless one becomes sin for us, that we might be raised, lifted up, and exalted. Yes, we are given forgiveness, life, and salvation because of this great and incredible reversal of Jesus Christ! Thanks be to God!
And of course, we remember another great reversal, that Jesus rose from the dead and swings open the gates of heaven, where he rules and reigns over all things in heaven and on earth.
So, while it seems here that the wicked persevere and prosper while the righteous in Christ suffer, we know that the greatest reversal has already taken place, and it's only a matter of time until we behold all its implications with our own eyes. How I long for that day!
Pray:
"Thank You, Lord, for all Your gifts to us. Let our joy be complete as we offer ourselves and our children to You and to each other in love. Thank You, Lord, for Your unfailing love and faithfulness to us. Bless us in faithful service to You, to our family, and in our callings." (TLSB p. 436, 438).
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Having finished 2 Corinthians, we'll now go on and start 1 Samuel. We'll read the Psalms for a while alongside of it...
Read 1 Samuel
Read Psalm 119:9-16 (Beth)
Read 1 Samuel
Read Psalm 119:9-16 (Beth)
Monday, August 16, 2010
Saturday, August 14, 2010
Friday, August 13, 2010
Another Jesus
Read Psalm 117
Read 2 Corinthians 11
Paul warns the Corinthians that they are falling prey to false apostles, false ministers of a fake Christ. Is it any surprise that God has caused this, His Holy Word, to be preserved down to the present day for us? We too are in danger of falling prey to false preachers, false gospels, and false gods.
There is no other Jesus than the one, historical, True God and True Man Jesus. But others are preaching another Jesus. Mind you, they don't call this false teaching another Jesus or anther gospel, but that is what it is. We must always be careful and on our guard.
In the name of "Jesus" some are wasting millions of dollars helping unbelievers stay in their unbelief. Some have get rich quick schemes that only help the preacher but not the people. Some fake miracles. Others hide disgusting, immoral lives behind a fancy suit. Others will proclaim "Christ" but deny the Triune God, the divinity of Jesus, or his atoning death and resurrection.
The truth is, we are under spiritual attack, not only from other religions, but also from false-Christians, that is, people who claim to be Christian but are really not. Hear me, I'm not talking about other Christian denominations (though we do have important differences that we need to be careful to sort through - we can't pretend they're not important!). I am not talking about other Christian denominations. I am talking about hypocrites, wolves in sheep's clothing, false "super-apostles" who take away from the Law/Gospel message of Scripture. They don't preach Christ crucified. They don't exhort people away from sins. They don't proclaim the free grace of our Savior.
Be on guard. Paul was on guard, and there was no questioning his sincerity, which he clearly explains to the church in Corinth. We also will prove ourselves to be genuine Christians by willingly carrying our crosses, speaking out against sin and unbelief, and proclaiming the Gospel of the real Jesus in all its sweetness and goodness.
And as we continue on, God will use us mightily. And we will rejoice and boast in our weakness. But now I'm getting ahead of myself...that's tomorrow's lesson.
Ask Yourself:
What false Jesuses are being proclaimed to me, my children, my family? What should I do about it?
How can I distinguish myself from what is false?
How do I carry my cross? Do others see it?
Pray:
Lord Jesus Christ, my Savior and my Redeemer, I thank you for your cross and the forgiveness you won for me. Protect me always from the deception of the Devil. Guard and protect my loved ones from false prophets and ministers of death. Help me always to be ready to bear my cross for you. Use me to be your true and powerful witness to those around me. Amen.
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Read 2 Corinthians 11
Paul warns the Corinthians that they are falling prey to false apostles, false ministers of a fake Christ. Is it any surprise that God has caused this, His Holy Word, to be preserved down to the present day for us? We too are in danger of falling prey to false preachers, false gospels, and false gods.
There is no other Jesus than the one, historical, True God and True Man Jesus. But others are preaching another Jesus. Mind you, they don't call this false teaching another Jesus or anther gospel, but that is what it is. We must always be careful and on our guard.
In the name of "Jesus" some are wasting millions of dollars helping unbelievers stay in their unbelief. Some have get rich quick schemes that only help the preacher but not the people. Some fake miracles. Others hide disgusting, immoral lives behind a fancy suit. Others will proclaim "Christ" but deny the Triune God, the divinity of Jesus, or his atoning death and resurrection.
The truth is, we are under spiritual attack, not only from other religions, but also from false-Christians, that is, people who claim to be Christian but are really not. Hear me, I'm not talking about other Christian denominations (though we do have important differences that we need to be careful to sort through - we can't pretend they're not important!). I am not talking about other Christian denominations. I am talking about hypocrites, wolves in sheep's clothing, false "super-apostles" who take away from the Law/Gospel message of Scripture. They don't preach Christ crucified. They don't exhort people away from sins. They don't proclaim the free grace of our Savior.
Be on guard. Paul was on guard, and there was no questioning his sincerity, which he clearly explains to the church in Corinth. We also will prove ourselves to be genuine Christians by willingly carrying our crosses, speaking out against sin and unbelief, and proclaiming the Gospel of the real Jesus in all its sweetness and goodness.
And as we continue on, God will use us mightily. And we will rejoice and boast in our weakness. But now I'm getting ahead of myself...that's tomorrow's lesson.
Ask Yourself:
What false Jesuses are being proclaimed to me, my children, my family? What should I do about it?
How can I distinguish myself from what is false?
How do I carry my cross? Do others see it?
Pray:
Lord Jesus Christ, my Savior and my Redeemer, I thank you for your cross and the forgiveness you won for me. Protect me always from the deception of the Devil. Guard and protect my loved ones from false prophets and ministers of death. Help me always to be ready to bear my cross for you. Use me to be your true and powerful witness to those around me. Amen.
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Thursday, August 12, 2010
Boast in the Lord
Having finished the book of Ruth, let's read a few psalms while we continue with 2 Corinthians 10.
Read Psalm 116
Read 2 Corinthians 10
Let me open, a little bit, the mind of a pastor to you. I don't think you will be surprised. I think that every Christian who desires to boast in the Lord and give him glory, and any person who appreciates the power of the Word will feel this way too.
A pastor is always battling against sinful pride. Paul wants to boast in the Lord (v. 17), that is clear. The Lord has chosen to use Paul as his instrument for carrying the Gospel. Can Paul boast in the Lord because the Lord has used him? Certainly. But Paul might be perceived as boasting too much in himself (v. 8). So Paul says that there are limits to his boasting (v. 13), and is sure to drive home the point at the end that all the glory is God's.
A pastor is always battling against sinful pride. God works through me. But what am I on my own? An earthen vessel, a jar of clay. There are many times I feel like a broken vessel. There are many times I feel (sinfully) proud of my accomplishments, forgetting that it is the Maker who fashioned me, fills me, pours me out, uses me for his purposes.
So Paul is very helpful here to remind me always to give him the glory and the credit. Maybe you will find that helpful today too.
I appreciated the following words from the Lutheran Study Bible...and I share them not to teach others how to treat me, but to remind me what is most important for me to be doing: "Paul's opponents cut him to ribbons and paint themselves in glowing colors, but he presses forward in spiritual warfare, winning souls for Christ against all odds, rejoicing that the Lord prospers his work and opens doors for his ministry, giving all glory to Christ. Dear Christian, do not judge your ministers by the standards of secular business and entertainment, but go by whether they speak with the Shepherd's voice and give His care. As Christ endured the darts of the evil one to rescue the undeserving from his clutches, so Paul and faithful ministers submit to affliction in order to reach the lost and build up the flock." (TLSB p. 1994).
May I always speak with the Shepherd's voice. May you always boast in the Lord. May we always strive on in the Spirit, boldly engaged in the work he has given us to do. And all this is about Christ, for Christ, and in Christ, our Savior and Lord.
Pray:
"Lord, grant us to die to self and live to You, and to be instruments of Your mission, not obstacles in its way. Amen." (TLSB p. 1994).
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Read Psalm 116
Read 2 Corinthians 10
Let me open, a little bit, the mind of a pastor to you. I don't think you will be surprised. I think that every Christian who desires to boast in the Lord and give him glory, and any person who appreciates the power of the Word will feel this way too.
A pastor is always battling against sinful pride. Paul wants to boast in the Lord (v. 17), that is clear. The Lord has chosen to use Paul as his instrument for carrying the Gospel. Can Paul boast in the Lord because the Lord has used him? Certainly. But Paul might be perceived as boasting too much in himself (v. 8). So Paul says that there are limits to his boasting (v. 13), and is sure to drive home the point at the end that all the glory is God's.
A pastor is always battling against sinful pride. God works through me. But what am I on my own? An earthen vessel, a jar of clay. There are many times I feel like a broken vessel. There are many times I feel (sinfully) proud of my accomplishments, forgetting that it is the Maker who fashioned me, fills me, pours me out, uses me for his purposes.
So Paul is very helpful here to remind me always to give him the glory and the credit. Maybe you will find that helpful today too.
I appreciated the following words from the Lutheran Study Bible...and I share them not to teach others how to treat me, but to remind me what is most important for me to be doing: "Paul's opponents cut him to ribbons and paint themselves in glowing colors, but he presses forward in spiritual warfare, winning souls for Christ against all odds, rejoicing that the Lord prospers his work and opens doors for his ministry, giving all glory to Christ. Dear Christian, do not judge your ministers by the standards of secular business and entertainment, but go by whether they speak with the Shepherd's voice and give His care. As Christ endured the darts of the evil one to rescue the undeserving from his clutches, so Paul and faithful ministers submit to affliction in order to reach the lost and build up the flock." (TLSB p. 1994).
May I always speak with the Shepherd's voice. May you always boast in the Lord. May we always strive on in the Spirit, boldly engaged in the work he has given us to do. And all this is about Christ, for Christ, and in Christ, our Savior and Lord.
Pray:
"Lord, grant us to die to self and live to You, and to be instruments of Your mission, not obstacles in its way. Amen." (TLSB p. 1994).
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Joyful Giving
Read Ruth 4
Read 2 Corinthians 9
This is beautifully put: "Paul urges the Corinthians to go with the flow of God's self-giving in Christ by giving themselves to others, so that the downward and outward movement of grace comes full circle in an ascending symphony of thanksgiving. Seeing things in an earthly, me-first way is miserly and petty. In stead, we should open our hands to receive from God and extend them to give to our neighbor. We marvel that in Jesus it is always more and never less and rejoice that God's gifts multiply as we receive and share them." (TLSB p. 1993)
Notice that the proper Gospel-motivation on the believer elicits the joyful response. We are moved by Christ and his mercy. We are rich in blessings of forgiveness and righteousness. This is not a "get rich quick" way of life. We are not promised that if we give 10% to the church then we're going to become millionaires. But we are promised that God will meet our needs, even as we meet the needs of those around us.
So, don't try to get rich by giving money and possessions away. However, if you do joyfully give your firstfruits to the Lord and remember the poor around you, then you will come to know riches beyond compare.
So, for the gift of each day, the gift of every opportunity to be generous, for the gift of supplies for the needs of this body and life, give God thanks today.
Ask Yourself:
For what am I thankful today?
About what am I worried? What comfort do I find in today's reading?
What can I do to show mercy to those around us?
Pray:
We give Thee but Thine own,
Whate'er the gift may be;
All that we have is Thine alone,
A trust, O Lord, from Thee.
May we Thy bounties thus
As stewards true receive
And gladly, as Thou blessest us,
To Thee our firstfruits give!
(LSB 781:1-2)
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Read 2 Corinthians 9
This is beautifully put: "Paul urges the Corinthians to go with the flow of God's self-giving in Christ by giving themselves to others, so that the downward and outward movement of grace comes full circle in an ascending symphony of thanksgiving. Seeing things in an earthly, me-first way is miserly and petty. In stead, we should open our hands to receive from God and extend them to give to our neighbor. We marvel that in Jesus it is always more and never less and rejoice that God's gifts multiply as we receive and share them." (TLSB p. 1993)
Notice that the proper Gospel-motivation on the believer elicits the joyful response. We are moved by Christ and his mercy. We are rich in blessings of forgiveness and righteousness. This is not a "get rich quick" way of life. We are not promised that if we give 10% to the church then we're going to become millionaires. But we are promised that God will meet our needs, even as we meet the needs of those around us.
So, don't try to get rich by giving money and possessions away. However, if you do joyfully give your firstfruits to the Lord and remember the poor around you, then you will come to know riches beyond compare.
So, for the gift of each day, the gift of every opportunity to be generous, for the gift of supplies for the needs of this body and life, give God thanks today.
Ask Yourself:
For what am I thankful today?
About what am I worried? What comfort do I find in today's reading?
What can I do to show mercy to those around us?
Pray:
We give Thee but Thine own,
Whate'er the gift may be;
All that we have is Thine alone,
A trust, O Lord, from Thee.
May we Thy bounties thus
As stewards true receive
And gladly, as Thou blessest us,
To Thee our firstfruits give!
(LSB 781:1-2)
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Monday, August 9, 2010
Prove Your Love
Read Ruth 3
Read 2 Corinthians 8
Paul presents the church in Corinth with the opportunity to prove their love. A collection is being taken, and the church in Corinth had expressed its willingness to help about a year earlier. You might say they made a pledge - maybe not a specific amount, but a promise to help. Now Paul is saying it is time for them to make good on their pledge.
Paul is not commanding them to give, but teaching stewardship properly, he reminds us that Christ became poor for us (leaving even the throne of heaven to be a humble servant!) that we might be rich in grace and blessing! We are reminded first and foremost of all Christ has done. We are forgiven much! Instead of being objects of wrath, we are given love, grace, peace, and much more.
Then, motivated by the love of Christ, we Christians are willing to become a little "poorer" in terms of material possessions in order to support the ministry of the Church and to supply the needs of others. Paul is very specific that he is not commanding them to give. But they had expressed their love and willingness to help, and now it is time for them to make good on their promise. The gift is not coerced (indeed, we will hear tomorrow about how God loves a cheerful giver). The opportunity is presented, and God's people respond.
This all got me thinking about if I make good on my promises, if I prove my love with actions, and how I motivate others to do godly things. Maybe that would be something good for you all to think about too. So...
Ask Yourself:
Do I make good on my promises? Do I prove my loving words with loving actions?
When "inviting" others to do good, am I pointing to Christ and how much he has done, or am I just barking out commands?
Pray:
Dear Jesus, thank you for becoming poor that I might be rich. Thank you for being a humble servant, living within God's perfect commands on my behalf, and dying on the cross, giving up your very life for me. Help me always to rejoice in that salvation and the riches of heaven that await me! Help me also to make good on my promises, prove my love with actions, and properly motivate others with the Good News of You, my Savior. Help me by the strength of Your Spirit. Amen.
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Read 2 Corinthians 8
Paul presents the church in Corinth with the opportunity to prove their love. A collection is being taken, and the church in Corinth had expressed its willingness to help about a year earlier. You might say they made a pledge - maybe not a specific amount, but a promise to help. Now Paul is saying it is time for them to make good on their pledge.
Paul is not commanding them to give, but teaching stewardship properly, he reminds us that Christ became poor for us (leaving even the throne of heaven to be a humble servant!) that we might be rich in grace and blessing! We are reminded first and foremost of all Christ has done. We are forgiven much! Instead of being objects of wrath, we are given love, grace, peace, and much more.
Then, motivated by the love of Christ, we Christians are willing to become a little "poorer" in terms of material possessions in order to support the ministry of the Church and to supply the needs of others. Paul is very specific that he is not commanding them to give. But they had expressed their love and willingness to help, and now it is time for them to make good on their promise. The gift is not coerced (indeed, we will hear tomorrow about how God loves a cheerful giver). The opportunity is presented, and God's people respond.
This all got me thinking about if I make good on my promises, if I prove my love with actions, and how I motivate others to do godly things. Maybe that would be something good for you all to think about too. So...
Ask Yourself:
Do I make good on my promises? Do I prove my loving words with loving actions?
When "inviting" others to do good, am I pointing to Christ and how much he has done, or am I just barking out commands?
Pray:
Dear Jesus, thank you for becoming poor that I might be rich. Thank you for being a humble servant, living within God's perfect commands on my behalf, and dying on the cross, giving up your very life for me. Help me always to rejoice in that salvation and the riches of heaven that await me! Help me also to make good on my promises, prove my love with actions, and properly motivate others with the Good News of You, my Savior. Help me by the strength of Your Spirit. Amen.
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Read Ruth 2
Read 2 Corinthians 7
I thought some comments from the Lutheran Study Bible would be helpful in applying our reading from Ruth today. In the first chapter of the book we learned about how Naomi lost her husband and both her sons. Her daughter-in-law, Orpah, went back home to her people. Naomi dismissed her and she went, nothing wrong there. But though Ruth could have gone home too, she decided to remain with Naomi and be a help to her. Most likely moved by compassion (and Boaz would later praise her for it) Ruth was the only thing in Naomi's life and decided to stay to help her.
The Lutheran Study Bible then helps us to understand this second chapter: "The Lord brings Ruth and Boaz together in mutual honor. We see a wonderful reversal in the fortunes of Ruth and Naomi. In times of darkness and suffering today, we may doubt God's Father-heart toward us. Yet God promises that He works all things for our good (Rm 8:28-29)." (TLSB, p. 427).
How true. Ruth's "fortunes" change when Boaz begins to be merciful to her. Boaz's mercy is certainly an extension of God's own mercy, for we see that Boaz is a kind and godly man. Ruth's fortunes will change more than she could ever dream, as she would some day become the ancestor of the Christ Himself!
Encouraging, isn't it? When you are waiting for your fortunes to change, are you hopeful, remembering that God can work out all things for good? Are you patient, knowing that everything will happen in God's time? And do you recognize that you are blessed most of all through the Savior, just as Ruth was?
Thank about that today!
Pray:
"Dear Jesus, by Your Holy Spirit, open the eyes of our hearts so that we may see You caring for us through those around us. Amen." (TLSB, p. 427)
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Read 2 Corinthians 7
I thought some comments from the Lutheran Study Bible would be helpful in applying our reading from Ruth today. In the first chapter of the book we learned about how Naomi lost her husband and both her sons. Her daughter-in-law, Orpah, went back home to her people. Naomi dismissed her and she went, nothing wrong there. But though Ruth could have gone home too, she decided to remain with Naomi and be a help to her. Most likely moved by compassion (and Boaz would later praise her for it) Ruth was the only thing in Naomi's life and decided to stay to help her.
The Lutheran Study Bible then helps us to understand this second chapter: "The Lord brings Ruth and Boaz together in mutual honor. We see a wonderful reversal in the fortunes of Ruth and Naomi. In times of darkness and suffering today, we may doubt God's Father-heart toward us. Yet God promises that He works all things for our good (Rm 8:28-29)." (TLSB, p. 427).
How true. Ruth's "fortunes" change when Boaz begins to be merciful to her. Boaz's mercy is certainly an extension of God's own mercy, for we see that Boaz is a kind and godly man. Ruth's fortunes will change more than she could ever dream, as she would some day become the ancestor of the Christ Himself!
Encouraging, isn't it? When you are waiting for your fortunes to change, are you hopeful, remembering that God can work out all things for good? Are you patient, knowing that everything will happen in God's time? And do you recognize that you are blessed most of all through the Savior, just as Ruth was?
Thank about that today!
Pray:
"Dear Jesus, by Your Holy Spirit, open the eyes of our hearts so that we may see You caring for us through those around us. Amen." (TLSB, p. 427)
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Saturday, August 7, 2010
Friday, August 6, 2010
Entrusted to Us
Sorry, I haven't added any commentary in a while. But hopefully everyone is still caught up with the Bible reading, and with renewed vigor, here we go!
Read Judges 21
Read 2 Corinthians 5
I went back and forth deciding upon what to comment. Judges 21 is messy, just plain messy. 2 Corinthians 5 is so loaded with good stuff, I think there's got to be at least 100 different sermons there. Finally the word that settled upon me was this: "In Christ God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation. Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God." (v. 19-20)
First we must be gratefully baffled that God would be such a loving as to want to reconcile us. Then we must be thankfully amazed at the manner in which God achieved this reconciliation and provides it to the whole world. The, third, we must be humbly dumbfounded that God uses us to bear that message to others. It is "entrusted to us." The eternal Gospel, with all its sweetness, with its life-giving power, with its mighty, transformational effects, this Gospel is entrusted to us. This is a Word that safely pulls people from the deadly jaws of the Devil, that stomps hell away from our heels, that rams open the gates of heaven that had been shut to us. This Word, this Gospel, is entrusted to me.
To me. Who am I to even touch this Word, or read it, or speak it? Who am I that I should be reconciled the the almighty, omnipotent Creator of the universe? Who am I that he should elect me to be his spokesperson?
Sounds foolish. And it would be if it weren't effective. But apparently, it is! The Bible tells us that we are to be his ambassadors and officially carry his message. The Bible tells us that God works reconciliation through us! Yes, the Holy Spirit works through the Word of God we share.
Can you believe it? Can you really believe it?
I know you do. And so do I. But sometimes I forget to ponder the majesty of that. Sometimes I forget what my duty is, and what power there is in the Word. I must forget sometimes, otherwise I would never hesitate to open my mouth when I know I should and speak the Word of God I know to speak.
I'm going to try today to do better. Put sin behind me. See that I am transformed by this Word. See that this Word in my mouth can reconcile others to God and snatch them away from the teeth of the hungry Devil.
That sounds like a good plan. I hope it is your plan too.
Pray:
Dear Jesus, thank you for being crucified for my forgiveness and rising for my new life. Thank you for forgiving all my sins, including the sin of failing to speak your Word when I ought. Help me, Lord, by the power of your Spirit to learn your Word and take it to heart that I might always be ready to speak this message of reconciliation through you; for you live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Read Judges 21
Read 2 Corinthians 5
I went back and forth deciding upon what to comment. Judges 21 is messy, just plain messy. 2 Corinthians 5 is so loaded with good stuff, I think there's got to be at least 100 different sermons there. Finally the word that settled upon me was this: "In Christ God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation. Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God." (v. 19-20)
First we must be gratefully baffled that God would be such a loving as to want to reconcile us. Then we must be thankfully amazed at the manner in which God achieved this reconciliation and provides it to the whole world. The, third, we must be humbly dumbfounded that God uses us to bear that message to others. It is "entrusted to us." The eternal Gospel, with all its sweetness, with its life-giving power, with its mighty, transformational effects, this Gospel is entrusted to us. This is a Word that safely pulls people from the deadly jaws of the Devil, that stomps hell away from our heels, that rams open the gates of heaven that had been shut to us. This Word, this Gospel, is entrusted to me.
To me. Who am I to even touch this Word, or read it, or speak it? Who am I that I should be reconciled the the almighty, omnipotent Creator of the universe? Who am I that he should elect me to be his spokesperson?
Sounds foolish. And it would be if it weren't effective. But apparently, it is! The Bible tells us that we are to be his ambassadors and officially carry his message. The Bible tells us that God works reconciliation through us! Yes, the Holy Spirit works through the Word of God we share.
Can you believe it? Can you really believe it?
I know you do. And so do I. But sometimes I forget to ponder the majesty of that. Sometimes I forget what my duty is, and what power there is in the Word. I must forget sometimes, otherwise I would never hesitate to open my mouth when I know I should and speak the Word of God I know to speak.
I'm going to try today to do better. Put sin behind me. See that I am transformed by this Word. See that this Word in my mouth can reconcile others to God and snatch them away from the teeth of the hungry Devil.
That sounds like a good plan. I hope it is your plan too.
Pray:
Dear Jesus, thank you for being crucified for my forgiveness and rising for my new life. Thank you for forgiving all my sins, including the sin of failing to speak your Word when I ought. Help me, Lord, by the power of your Spirit to learn your Word and take it to heart that I might always be ready to speak this message of reconciliation through you; for you live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Thursday, August 5, 2010
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Monday, August 2, 2010
We continue our study of the book of Judges. Having finished up 1 Corinthians, we will continue on to 2 Corinthians...
Read Judges 17
Read 2 Corinthians 1
Read Judges 17
Read 2 Corinthians 1
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