68 Days

Proverbs 31 (click here)

2009-09-11T07:38:00.002-05:00

This is perhaps one of the most familiar chapters in proverbs at least after verse 9. The first eight verses are wise words to a son to avoid alcohol, stay under control and look for social justice. All of us have been or will be in a position to speak up for someone who cannot speak up for themselves. Whether it be an unborn baby, children, the poor, the elderly, the disabled, or anyone who in need of help. As followers of God it is our duty to realize our value as creations of the Creator and attribute the same value to ALL people. The message of the Gospel, the truth of God's love is available to everyone, it is selfish and arrogant to presume that some people don't need the Gospel, don't want it, or don't deserve it. Our lives should be a testimony of God's love for all people, and when it is necessary we have to speak up for the one's who cannot speak up for themselves. A quote by a man named St. Francis is fitting here "Always be a witness for Christ, and when necessary use words."
The rest of the Proverb describes the woman that a mother desires for her son. There are many characteristics given of this woman some of them are hard to figure out for modern readers like us. This woman is confident in who God made her to be, she loves her husband, children, she is dedicated to the Lord, and is obedient to what she knows He wants her to do. A woman who is a servant is desirable, but one who serves out of love and commitment not guilt or fear of her husband. Guys, we should be the wise, loving, Godly men that attract a woman like this. Girls, your focus should be obedience to God, being who He created you to be and the right relationship will come along in His time. It's hard for any of us to wait, but it so important to have things right with the most important relationship, Christ, and not to rush into human relationships unprepared. As some of you are at the point of dating, you should be just as cautious with those relationships. Trust God above all and watch what he'll do.

Well, this is the last of our 68 days. It has been a great journey for me, and the blog will be here anytime you want to come back to it. Let me know what you want to do next and we'll see. For now Be wise, Trust God, speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, and...

GO LIVE

Proverbs 30 click here

2009-09-09T20:53:00.002-05:00

So, this proverb looks and reads a little different though some of the themes are the same. Unlike most of the book this is probably a proverb of someone other than Solomon. The literary style of "there are three things that...four that" is to catch your attention and usually the last in the list makes the point.
Three verses that stuck out to me:

v.5 You can trust God, more than you can trust anyone. How cool is it, that His word is flawless. What He says about you is true, What He says about Himself is true, What He promises is true. Follow after truth.
v.8 This is a great prayer for your life, that God would provide and that you would notice and be grateful for the daily blessings.
v.17Your parents didn't pay me to bring out this verse. Let's be real sometimes parents are difficult to deal with, let's be more real sometimes you can be difficult to deal with. God has placed parents in your life to teach you, and even if they don't honor the Lord that does not give you permission to dishonor Him as well by disrespecting them. If you have parents who love the Lord and you give thanks, if you don't be grateful that you have someone and love them straight to Jesus.

I need input on where we go from here. Tomorrow is the last of our 68 days. We can shut it down, we can give the blog a new theme, or do something else. Let me know your thoughts.

Be thinking, Be Kind, Be who God made you to be and...

Go Live.

Proverbs 29 click here

2009-09-09T07:12:00.003-05:00

For the purpose of illustration try something. Tense up the muscles in your face and neck so that your neck becomes stiff. Don't do it too long, because you know what? It's uncomfortable and it hurts. Verse 1 of Ch. 29 tells us that someone who hears wisdom and correction, and constantly refuses to do the right thing is "stiff-necked" and if they remain that way they will suddenly face the consequences. Many times we know what to do and don't do it, over and over again then something happens as a result and we act completely surprised. For example, we have learned in Proverbs that it is wise to watch our tongue. It has come up in chapter after chapter. So it is clear that gossipping, or lashing out in anger, or not speaking kind words is unwise. Imagine someone who has read these passages and gotten the point about the tongue but not lived it out. One day they realize that the majority of their friends don't really like them any more and that the people who use to be closest to them cannot be found. Did this happen without warning? Not really, the warning was their all along. This is a simple example, because "suddenly destroyed" can mean A LOT more than losing friends. We must realize that our actions have consequences and the consequences of doing the wrong thing when we know the right thing will not be pleasant. If you have someone in your life a parent, a trusted friend, or a teacher who loves you enough to correct you, be grateful of the incredible kindness they are showing you and listen. God is the great teacher and he wants you to live wisely.

Loosen your neck and...

Go Live

Proverbs 28

2009-09-08T06:08:00.001-05:00

V.25 really got me. It is simply my prayer for myself and for you that we would realize how caring God is and all that He allows us to have. We here in the U.S. live in incredible freedom, we have access to at least three meals a day, and we have a choice in clothes we wear. But way beyond that material stuff all of us have the access to the Creator of the world, we are rich in God's riches, and we can be guided by God all day. It is amazing how little we need when we realize what we have.

Be thankful for something today stop complaining and...

Go Live.

Proverbs 27 click here

2009-09-07T08:37:00.002-05:00

Some verses that jumped out at me:

V. 5-6: A true friend will help you with discipline, let you know when you're off track. They can do this because they truly love you, anyone can pretend to like you. A true friend cares enough to tell you when you're be careless.
v. 17: If we want to grow closer to God, we need each other. There are areas that you are strong and you're friend is weak and areas that you are weak and your friend is strong. We need each other to challenge and carry us closer to Christ. Sometimes Christianity is dull because Christians don't help each other out.
v. 19: You can dress up, put on a good appearance. But, God really knows what is going on. We should take care of our outside, but never neglect the inside, it is what is really important because it is where we keep who we really are.
v.23-27: The theme of these verses is simply: Take care of what you have. We take the things we are given or even buy for granted. Then when we need it, it is not in good shape and so we go buy more or go without. It is wise to keep clothes, cars, and our rooms in good condition. It shows that we are grateful for what God has allowed us to have.

Be caring, take care, and...

Go Live.

Proverbs 26

2009-09-06T08:34:00.002-05:00

There is a lot here about the dangers and downfalls of being foolish, arrogant, and lazy. I was really intrigued by verses 18-19. A lot of us say, text, or post some pretty mean and sarcastic things and then smooth it all over by saying, texting, or typing "just kidding" (or more often j/k). These verses strongly warn against that kind of behavior comparing to someone going crazy and on a shooting spree. That's pretty strong language, but brings us back to the importance of our words. Yes, there is time and place for joking but we really should think about what we say,text,or type BEFORE we do it. J/K sounds cool, I guess, but it really does very little to soften the blow of cutting someone down. Even if the person seems to take it, you can never take back those statements. So be careful, be thoughtful, and...

Go Live.

Proverbs 25

2009-09-05T04:59:00.002-05:00

The beginning of this chapter tells us that these proverbs were collected by the men of King Hezekiah. Hezekiah was a king of Israel that repented to the Lord and dedicated himself and the throne to righteousness before the Lord. He was one of the greatest of the kings simply because He did what God said.
The proverbs sound very familiar to the rest of the book picking up on the themes of the importance of words both good and bad, differences between the wicked and the evil, and the blessing of living right.

Verse 21-22 are very interesting. They are referenced by Paul in Romans 12 (you can check out the blog entry for that day in the archives as well) and seem to carry the idea that the best way to confront an enemy is to show them kindness, not so you can eventually punish them but so that both of you will see the goodness of God.
Verse 28 could be posted on our doors so that every time we leave our rooms we are reminded of the importance of self control. Self control is really an ironic term when you think about it. Really it means that we have to abandon self, give up control, in order to live the disciplined life that God calls us to. We all have times when we want to blow up, lash out in anger, or decide to please ourselves and just go a little crazy. But just like a city without protective walls, those things open us up to destruction and defeat. We can have victory over the sinful temptations of the world if and only if we give up ourselves to the Lord and live life His way.

Have a great, wise weekend and...

Go Live.

Proverbs 24

2009-09-04T06:00:00.001-05:00

This chapter has three major points:

Have a strong foundation in the Lord: The verse sounds very similar to Jesus' story of the wise man who built his house upon the rock and the foolish man who built his house upon the sand. Most of you already know this and those who don't will, your life will be rocked by something and that is when your true foundation is revealed. The wise man builds his house upon the rock.

Be Kind: Don't gossip and remember that you are to be what God wants to see in the world. You carry the representation of Christ into the world. No, it won't always be a perfect picture but it should look more like Christ than it does human and it should grow.

Work Hard: Whether its homework, extra curricular stuff, or cleaning your room it should be like God told you to do it and He definitely deserves our best effort. We are working for more than the instant pay off, we should work for the long term goal of being what God has called us to be.

Think of some other themes or think about what you're doing in these areas and...

Go Live.

Proverbs 23

2009-09-03T06:00:00.000-05:00

Proverbs 23

The first few verses speak on the idea of being content. We always want more and are pretty sure the person who has more is better off. We know deep down that riches and more won't make us happy, but we just want to feel comfortable. The selfish pursuit of those things is unwise because it replaces the goal of righteousness with the goal of stuffness (not a real word, but used for emphasis). This goes back to the Matthew 6:33 principle which guides us to seek Christ above all else and we will find that our priorities change and we have all we need. The order is important, very often we think, "if I can get such and such, I'll feel better and then I can give Jesus a chance." Give Jesus yourself and your life will be complete, in fact it will never be complete without Him.
Verses 17-19 is my prayer for all of you. That you will find the path to Christ which is complete trust and faith in Him and that you will stick to it. That you will desire the real hope that lies in Him. And back to v. 17 that all of us would withstand the temptation to be jealos of those who selfishly pursue the things of this world (sinners) and we will desire the right things of the Lord.
Verse 20 is interesting because it equates drunkeness and gluttony. Drunkeness is much more likely to be a poor witness to others, but God also wants us to be grateful for the provision of food and for us not to over do it in that area as well.
Be wise in the way you look at things, give it all over to God see and do it His way and...

Go Live.

Proverbs 22

2009-09-02T06:00:00.000-05:00

Proverbs 22

This chapter brings up some questions that students and often adults do not give much thought. So here some to think about:

Do you think of money as a gift or entitlement?

Do you relate how you handle money with Spiritual discipline?

How will the way you treat money now effect you 5 years from now?

How important is gaining money to you?

On to another subject:

Are you kind?

What is your reputation among people?

There are definitely more questions that come out of this passage, but this is a good start. Think about your life. In all honesty what role does the wisdom of God really play in your life? If you seek His wisdom you will find it.

Go Live.

Proverbs 21

2009-09-01T05:53:00.000-05:00

What is the hardest part of your life to give up and give to God?

How do you treat and/or think about the poor?

Some verses that stuck out to me:
v. 3 Sometimes we like to make a big deal about what we are "sacrificing" for God, when in reality we have made life all about us and we are not acting rightly or fairly.

v.5 It is vital that we remain consistent and grow closer everyday, even when it doesn't feel like there is progress we must remain diligent in our goal. When God has given us an opportunity to go to school, earn money, compete in athletics, participate in band, etc. we must do it with hard work and commitment not quit because it isn't always exciting or fun.

v. 13 This verse again attacks the "me first" mentality. When we give to others we become more aware that our needs are provided.

v.23 "guards his mouth" is an interesting phrase. Think of your mouth as the city gate where armed guards stand to protect the city from harmful enemies. The Holy Spirit is the guard and as we grow in Christ we become more aware of the Spirit's work in keeping harmful words from coming out of our mouths and destroying ourselves and those in our path. A guarded mouth, speaks when necessary with discernment and wisdom.

Be wise and...

Go Live!

Proverbs 20 (click here)

2009-08-31T08:46:00.002-05:00

Proverbs 20

This chapter really speaks in specifics about the way people and people in certain roles (kings, etc.) should wisely live. A few verses really hit me head on, feel free to comment on the ones that hit you as well.

V.1 This verse is one that is often thought of when the discussion of Christians and alcohol comes up. It is true that this verse is likely discussing the foolishness of being drunk (staggering). It is also true that many people do not have the wisdom to stop before it gets to that point and for those of you who are under age this isn't even a question, it would be foolish to violate the law especially for something that turns you into a mocker or brawler.
V.3 There is wisdom is settling things between yourself and other people. When this verse says that any fool can get into a quarrel (fight) it applies to physical as well as verbal. Many of us talk about avoiding "drama" and yet we find ourselves foolishly in the middle of it. We should ask God for wisdom in dealing with other people properly, it can be difficult but in the long term it's a lot better.
v.7 This verse outlines once again the benefit of wisdom in the long term. We should always weight the consequences of our actions.
v.11 A good reputation is of utmost importance. Actions are indisputable evidence of a life changed by Christ, these are not once in a while actions, but actions that are consistent and pure (the right motives)
v.24 The overall theme of Proverbs stated once again. We are not meant to live this life alone, it's not just unwise it's impossible to live a good life without the guidance of the Lord.
v.25 Carefully consider what you commit to, it's okay and even wise to think about carefully first.
v.30 This is not talking about physical abuse, but again the long term blessing of discipline.

think wisely today and ...

Go Live!

Proverbs 19 (click here)

2009-08-30T08:00:00.002-05:00

Proverbs 19

Some familiar themes in this chapter. We see discernment mentioned, click here for the dictionary definition, true discernment is a given by the Holy Spirit and is the wisdom of looking ahead with a well rounded Godly perspective.
These are a couple of verses that stuck out to me:

v. 17 Discernment comes into play here. This verse is not saying that we should give all our money to whomever asks. But, when the Spirit reveals a real need and we have the opportunity we should happily give. If we are wise with the money God allows us to have we will have more opportunities to be blessed and be a blessing through giving.

v. 20 Often we don't want to listen to good advice because often we already know the right thing to do and either think we just cannot or we do not want to do it. When someone loves you enough to pull you aside and give you Godly advice (God will confirm this if you ask) it is best in the long run to listen.

v. 23 The phrase "untouched by trouble" really stood out to me. What a way to live! Not many of us really want to get into trouble, at least at first. After a while it becomes kind of fun, but it always ends poorly and its unwise. Following the Lord isn't always exciting at first glance, but when we see the big picture it's gratifying and exciting to see the opportunities that open up because we follow the Lord.

No matter what you have done up to this point, you can leave the unwise life and follow the path of the Lord. Ask for His forgiveness, stop touching trouble, realize His way is best, and...

Go Live

Proverbs 18

2009-08-29T06:00:00.002-05:00

Proverbs 18

It is wise, we hear again, to keep our mouths shut. Speaking in arrogance, not listening to wise advice, and spreading gossip are all great ways to get us in trouble, and truthfully ruin our lives. Stuck in the middle of this chapter is a verse declaring that God is a strong tower that those who live right run into and are saved. Back in the day there used to be buildings known as towers of refuge that people could run into during times of war and violence, they were safe places. The unwise, the gossipers, are living dangerously. It might not look like it and if you're caught up in it may seem pretty good, even fun but the end will come and it will not go well. We are not meant to live life on our own, so run to God and...

Go Live.

There is a song that a lot of you have heard, that talks about running to Jesus where real life is. It came to my mind before I read this passage and after I read it seemed to fit. Here's the link: Come To Jesus

Proverbs 17

2009-08-28T06:00:00.000-05:00

Proverbs 17

Sometimes we get to a point where we think life is just about do's and don'ts. But wisdom teaches us that life is really about balance. Meaning for example, God doesn't tell us "don't have money," but He does tell us to save it and spend it wisely. We are called to live in a relationship with God, made possible by His grace, and it is that relationship that we are equipped and called to be more like Him, wise.
A couple verses deal with the idea of justice, the freedom of the innocent and the punishment of the guilty. How just are you? Sometimes we can be guilty of picking on people because they are easy targets for various reasons. It's not just to put down anyone even if you determine they deserve it. Its unwise to talk down about others, because that cannot lead towards God.

Be kind today, talk to God, and...

Go Live.

Proverbs 16 (click here)

2009-08-27T06:00:00.000-05:00

God is God and we are not. This is the first step in understanding the danger of pride and haughtiness spoken about in this chapter. When we take credit for the things God has done or try to do things on our own without God's direction we are essentially putting ourselves above Him. Read verses 5-9 again. The Lord detests those who put themselves above Him, this means even when we are hurting and don't turn to God, He detests that. God wants to guide you and lead you in a good life, just let Him. There is a hymn that says "only trust Him, only trust Him, only trust Him now, He will save you, He will save you, He will save you now." Sometimes we try to save ourselves, but we must let "God guide our steps." Verse 6 teaches us that out of love for God and complete trust in Him we can overcome those weak areas of sin in our lives. I hope you will realize today the truth of verse 8, that materail things pale in compartison to knowing and living for the Lord, it's true. Turn your heart towards the things of God, good things, let Him guide your steps and...

Go Live

Proverbs 15 (click here)

2009-08-26T05:30:00.000-05:00

Proverbs 15

I almost stopped at the first verse, that's some wise advice. During the course of a normal week think about how much trouble we could all avoid by just giving a gentle answer. This chapter goes on to reinterate the dangers of foolish talk. However, I was struck by the advantages of the wise use of the tongue. I dwell so often on the stupid and destructive things I say, that I forget that God can actually use the tongue for good. We must be careful, Ephesians 5 states again what kind of talk to avoid but emphasizes as well the need to use our talk to thank God for all He does (we first have to recognize what He does) and to encourage one another.

The rest of the chapter speaks again to the wisdom of discipline. Discipline carries a negative meaning to most of us for various reasons. But discipline is God's way of making us right, we should welcome it and grow from it. A common phrase says, "God loves you too much to leave you were you're at." In many ways that is what Proverbs is saying, the righteous will pursue God and He will lead them down the highway of wisdom. To be fit for the road He must do maintenance on us, we are the vehicles of His presence in the world. I might have over extended the illustration there, but I hope the point isn't lost. Discipline takes many forms, but welcome the opportunity to grow in wisdom, in Christ likeness and

Go Live !!

Proverbs 14 (click here)

2009-08-25T07:19:00.002-05:00

Proverbs 14

We see here again that there are benefits to wisdom and extreme disadvantages to foolishness. This may seem simple, but the enemy of this world is constantly presenting us with an easy way out, a quick solution, and playing to our selfish desires. We must pray for eyes to see the big picture, that is what discernment is. The gift, the ability to find wisdom even when it is not abundantly apparent to us. Two verses really stuck out to me here.

Verse 12 We can get to a point where we think we have life figured out. We make quick decisions, go with our feelings alone, and just do whatever looks right. God calls us to pause, wait, and seek His counsel in EVERY decision and life choice.

Verse 29 Patience is a difficult thing and even kind of scary to pray for, but it is essential to wise living. God gives us what we need and sometimes what we want on His time table because He knows what is best. There are a lot of things and desires that we want now and we make a big mistake when we go out and get it on our own. Patience allows us to take life as it comes and handled it calmly and wisely. We also need to learn to be patient with others. Sometimes we want people to change for the better, long before they are really ready to do that. We must pray, be a righteous example, and help them along the way. I know a lot of you are in the middle of some really difficult situations my prayer for you is that you will hold on, do whatever God is telling you to do today and that all of us would...

Go Live

Proverbs 13 (click here)

2009-08-24T05:00:00.000-05:00

Proverbs 13

This is a great chapter to talk about the idea of "delayed gratification." This chapter looks at this idea in the area of money, get a little as you go instead of trying to get as much as you can now and spending it just as quickly. It also explores this idea in the area of discipline and righteousness, if you want to be wise you have to work out. Wicked comes natural and its pretty easy, but once we give ourselves to Christ we have a new nature and we need to develop it. Delayed gratification is difficult because we are very "I see it, I want it, I get it type of people." But that kind of outlook on life is not disciplined and can get us into real trouble. We are called to wait on God for all kinds of things: in relationships, opportunities, finances, and even spiritual callings. Its in our waiting that we grow closer to God, waiting does not mean stop and sit around for God to do something, it means yield to what you know God is telling you to do, be faithful with what you have and look back way down the road and be amazed at what He has done. Does this make sense? Comment on how delayed gratification looks or could look in your life and instead of worrying about what you don't have thank God for what you do, do the right thing and...

Go Live.

Proverbs 12

2009-08-23T06:00:00.002-05:00

Proverbs 12 (click here)

The first and the last verses in this chapter really hit me. Discipline is not something that anyone generally gets excited about. But Scripture speaks often of it, and says that God disciplines the ones He loves. Discipline is the practice of doing the right thing, we need to discipline our entire bodies to do the right thing. This is not an overnight occurance, it taks time, commitment, and focus. God will discipline us, if we will let Him and what we are forced to get rid of does not compare to the life we will have in return. The start of the school year is a wonderful time to look at our discipline. 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 is a great verse to remind us of the dedication it takes to live a disciplined life. The last half of verse 1 makes it clear that the alternative to being disciplined is being stupid, let's not be stoooopid.
Each of these posts ends with "Go Live" I hope you have noticed that. Proverbs 12:28 is saying the exact same thing and it tells us how and why. Living right is really the way to live, and God will enable you to do that. Immortality is kind of crazy to think about and it brings up images of super heroes or characters who cannot be killed no matter what. That's not what this immortality is talking about, its talking about a forever life. We start the forever life the minute we come to Jesus and so we should live like it.

so, Go Live!!

Proverbs 11

2009-08-22T08:27:00.005-05:00

Proverbs 11
The comments lately really reflect that you are getting Proverbs, there are general themes in the chapters and throughout the book, but each verse also stands alone as a wise saying that can be taken in and thought about. Good work on the comments, keep 'em coming. The gossip issue is a big deal because it deals with the mishandling of our tongues and the cruel intentions of our heart. Wisdom is in saying the right things at the right time and in being blameless in our thoughts and actions. Difficult, yes but possible with a strong relationship with Christ, you betcha. A reading of James 3 would be really interesting and helpful in this issue.of controlling our tongues and living wisely.
Ch. 11 continues the idea of putting our motivations and real character under the microscope. Here are some verses that stuck out to me, respond to these or others that stuck out to you.

verse 1. People in the marketplaces would sometimes add weight to what people were buying, or fix the scales to weigh heavy so they would get more money. Whatever the exact situation it is wise to be honest because that is much easier to defend.
verse 7 Back in the day there used to be a shirt that said, "he who dies with the most toys, still dies." Yeah a little dark, but a good reminder that if we waste our life accumulating things, in the end we don't have a whole lot to show for our time here.
verse 9 This is the idea of being slow to speak and quick to listen. Even when it comes to giving advice/caring for our friends we learn more and can be more helpful by listening a lot more than we talk.
verse 16 Again this idea of who we are as people, kind, is a lot more important than what we are, wealthy. If we focus on being who God has called us to be its amazing how He will provide.
verse 21 This one is a tough one, because it seems like the "wicked" get away with a lot and come up pretty rosey. This verse is taking in the whole picture, we have to learn to think long term about the consequences of our lives and actions. We are much better off being full of right, because in the end that is what comes through.
verse 27 I heard it said once that "you are exactly where you planned to be." We have to check our focus every day. Because we will find what we are really looking for, if we focus on the goodness of God that is where we will end up, if we just kind of go with the flow we will end up with evil.

I am really enjoying this journey and I pray for wisdom for me and all of you,

Go Live.

Proverbs 10 (click here)

2009-08-21T06:29:00.000-05:00

Proverb s 10

In true proverbial form we have several examples of the righteous do this and the wicked do this statements. It is really important to notice that what a person does is directly affected by who the are. The righteous do righteous things and the wicked do wicked things. You are only righteous when you give yourself completely over to the Lord. Being wise, we see, is not about knowing everything, it is being completely aware that we don't know everything and need to follow the leadership of God.

Be righteous and

Go live.

Proverbs 9 (click here)

2009-08-20T10:38:00.003-05:00

Proverbs 9

The first half of this chapter talks once again about the importance of gaining wisdom and where it comes from. We as human beings are limited in our ability to do right and make wise decisions. We must realize our lack of understanding, admit to ourselves and to God and run after wisdom. Wisdom begins with "a FEAR of the Lord." That word fear is not the "mufasa fear" (Lion King reference) but a reverence and acknowledgement that God knows far more than we do and He has the perfect way of doing things. A lot of us want to "fix" our lives but we don't want to stop doing, saying, or thinking things that go against God. God is the real fixer, but we have to be fixed on His terms. This doesn't mean never doing anything wrong again, but it means desiring to put ourselves under the authority of God Almighty, it's where we belong.
The last half of the chapter puts "folly" in the same position "wisdom" is in, in Ch.8. Folly yells out to us that we should follow her. But before you get on a path you should know the destination. The destination of folly is pointless and empty. Verses 7 and 8 are very interesting because they speak about trying to correct someone who has gone off the right path. We should be a steady example, but you can't talk somebody out of folly unless God changes their heart to seek wisdom. So when people reject GOOD advice, continue to pray that their heart will be changed, because only then will they respond to your friendly warning.

Have a great day and...

Go Live.

Proverbs 8 (click here to read)

2009-08-19T13:46:00.003-05:00

It's really cool to read this and think about wisdom, the combination of knowledge and doing right, looking you right in the face and saying, "You need me." God is all-knowing and wise so when He speaks through His word He speaks wisdom. So what do we do? We listen and obey. Where do you need wisdom? Ask and do what God says. The last verse talks about those who hate wisdom love death. That's a really dark picture but we should realize that to live without thinking about what we'ere doing is to live reckless and apart from God. So search out wisdom and...

Go Live.

Proverbs 7 (click here to read)

2009-08-18T06:00:00.002-05:00

Proverbs 7

I know this chapter probably reads a little weird for some of you but there's an important point for young men and young women here. If you disregard wisdom you will end up in a place you never wanted to be. I hear people say all the time, "well I didn't really mean for this to happen." Here's the deal, if you live without wisdom, if you don't consider every thing you do before you do it, you will end up where you didn't mean to be. James 1:5 tells us that we should ask God for wisdom. So as you are thinking about how to respond to your family, friends, teachers, coaches, coworkers or what you are going to do when situations come up do this: Stop and ask God now for wisdom so that "what you never meant to happen" can be avoided.

Be wise and...

Go Live

Proverbs 6 (click here)

2009-08-17T04:52:00.002-05:00

Proverbs 6.

Proverbs is a different book, each verse can seem like a seperate line on its own but there are usually 2 or 3 consistent themes throughout the chapter. Always with the constant theme of wise living guiding the Godly instruction.

This chapter looks at the way we use our words, our time, and how we guard ourselves against temptation (specifically adultrey). The first part is about how we should simply not run our mouths off, cause that will only get us in over our heads and in more trouble than we can handle. I cannot count the times that I would have been so much better off by just remaining quiet. These verses also reinterate the importance of keeping our word, if we tell someone that we will do something we should do it. Jesus says in Matthew: let your yes be your yes and your no be your no. This applies to a lot of things, when we say we will get our homework done, do our chores, if we say to a friend "I'll pray for you" we should do it.
The part in this chapter about "looking at the ant" is a picture of doing work and again honoring commitments. No one has to tell the ant to gather food, he just does what needs to be done. I can come up with a lot of excuses to be lazy. Now one of the things God wants us to do is get regular rest so that we can regularly be awake and be sharp for what He has for us. Time and commitments can seem overwhelming with school, band, sports, theatre, and even CHURCH it can seem like we just can't do it all. But if you will listen to God and do a little bit of preparation He can help you manage it.
The last part of this verse might seem to only apply to adults and even more specifically male adults. And it is talking about the specific issue of adultrey, but its a good point about temptation in general. The first and guiding principle of temptation is to get away from it. 1 corinthians 10:13 is a great verse about temptation. Temptation in itself is not sin, it's the opportunity to sin but its just as much the opportunity to grow closer to Christ and avoid sin. God will provide a way out if we ask. If there is a situation in your life, be it specific friends, places, tv shows, internet sites, or whatever that give you an opportunity to go away from the Lord then avoid their influence at all costs.

Run to Jesus and...

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Proverbs 5 (click here)

2009-08-16T08:43:00.002-05:00

Proverbs 5

This verse comes off a little strange because it speaks to an issue you might not think much about now, the issue of adultrey. People get lured away from a relationship by evil in various ways. The cool thing to know is that forgiveness and getting things right is always possible because of Jesus.

Wisdom teaches us and helps us to recognize when we are gettin off track (being lured away).
So learn wisdom and...

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Proverbs 4

2009-08-15T09:56:00.002-05:00

Proverbs 4

There is a temptation to kind of speed read over Proverbs because a lot of the chapters sound similar. But, pay attention because wisdom is important, we can know a lot about God, a lot about "dos" and "donts" but wisdom helps to put those things into practice and helps keeps us out of evil. Evil is not always clear and in a big red suit saying "Im evil, Im evil." It is often masked or appears over time, we need wisdom to recognize and avoid the path of evil.

vv. 23-25 are really crucial to this chapter and to the idea of being wise. In this writing "heart" means the whole package of the way we think (intellect) and feel(emotions). To guard it is to not give it away to everthing or everybody. How do we do that?
Comment and...

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Proverbs 3

2009-08-14T08:58:00.002-05:00

Proverbs 3

The first part of this can be misunderstood where it talks about wisdom and prosperity. This is not saying that if your wise you will be materially wealthy but rich in understanding and the ability to apply wisdom. Proverbs 3:5 really hit me hard about the importance of complete, 100% trust in God. Not just acknowledging God or sometimes trusting Him but absolute dependence on His leadership.

Let God direct your paths and...

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Proverbs 2

2009-08-13T17:10:00.003-05:00

Proverbs 2

This chapter expands the idea of wisdom to the application of understanding. Recognize that understanding sustains life. Going back to chapter 1 we gain understanding by staying close to God. Don't waste your life and...

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Proverbs 1

2009-08-13T13:22:00.002-05:00

Proverbs 1

I apologize for my sketchy posting. I am here and will attempt to post Proverbs 2 later on this evening.

"the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom." It seems so obvious to some of us, but think about the impact of the idea that wisdom begins with God. If you do not have a proper relationship with God you cannot begin to live wisely. This chapter talks about the importance of avoiding foolish people who end up slaying themselves. Foolishness destroys but wisdom endures.

Be Wise and

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Romans 16 (click here)

2009-08-11T10:03:00.002-05:00

Romans 16

We are all in need of Paul's words to live in grace and to stay away from those influences that would steer us toward evil.
We should also notice that Paul goes to great lengths to thank those who have helped him along the way. Christ likeness and growth is not accomplished outside of community and we muc recognize that and lean on others as we strive to conquer the schemes of the evil one and strive towards being like Christ.

Much appreciation to my wonderful "substitute." I will try to stay on track the rest of the week as we start Proverbs tomorrow.

Focus on Christ and

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Romans 15

2009-08-10T21:57:00.003-05:00

Justin does not have access to internet today. Please read Romans 15. His substitute does not know how to make a link to the text, so if you are not sure how to find it, please call a friend for help. Justin should be able to post again tomorrow. Thank you for your patience!

Romans 14 (click here)

2009-08-09T06:00:00.000-05:00

Romans 14

This chapter is addressing an issue between the Christian Jews and Gentiles. Basically, some Christians thought that certain meats were wrong for God's people to eat (Jewish law), while others ate whatever they wanted. Paul says each person should go to God with those questions and live by the convictions God gives them. Above all, however, Christians should always try and eliminate conflict, so if one Christian knows his friend doesn't eat the meat he should love him enough to not scarf it down in front his friend.
Here's a personal example:
I believe my faith in God still allows me to, and is often strengthened, by listening to secular music. However not every Christian feels this way and possibly a young Christian who has just turned their life over to Christ might be easily tempted by even tame secular music. So, according to this verse I should enjoy protecting and loving my Christian friend more than listening to my music.
I would love to read other thoughts on this.

go live.

Romans 13 (click here)

2009-08-08T09:48:00.005-05:00

Romans 13

Submission is not a very popular topic, nor it is easy for us hard headed stubborn people to do. But, Scripture speaks of it often. The main point to remember that the first step of our saving relationship with God is accepting Him as Savior and Lord. The "Lord" aspect of that automatically demands submission. So our firs priority is to be under the authority of God. In that submission other submissive relationships follow. In this chapter Paul is speaking to Roman Christians who live under the constant threat of persecution. So this is a difficult teaching for them. Here's some questions to consider about how this verse you be understood and lived out:

Did America's founding fathers violate this verse in rebelling against King George in England and starting the Revolution?
Did those who spoke (white and black) in favor of getting rid of American slavery violate this verse?
What about the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.?
In general is it ever right (Godly) for Christians to oppose their government?

The last half of the chapter looks back to yesterday's passage, and gets even more specific. As people we will wear one of two sets of "clothes." Either the clothes of Christ colored in love or the clothes of sin colored in selfishness.

This is my prayer today, "14Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the sinful nature.[c]"

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Romans 12 (click here)

2009-08-07T07:09:00.003-05:00

At Faith Baptist we heard a sermon on the first part of this chapter to weeks ago from an African pastor named Livingstone Zitha (find out more about his ministry at http://www.zithaministries.org/). He gave a powerful illustration of presenting ourselves before God and taking our hands off of it. If we are going to be transformed we have to let God do it and "in view of His mercy," since He has done so much to offer Himself to us we must trust that what He does with our lives is best. Our best worship is complete surrender to the God who saves us.
The last section of Romans 12 speaks of what a surrendered life looks like. We learn that it's a loving life. Below is an explanation of this love taken from the NIV Application Commentary and written by Doug Moo:

LOVE IN ACTION. Few terms are as popular among Christians as the term love. And rightly so, for along with faith and hope, love is one of the most important ways of expressing what Christianity is all about. The New Testament puts love at the heart of what it means to be a Christian in relationship to other people. To be sure we must never allow this horizontal dimension of Christianity to push out or diminish the more basic vertical dimension of our faith. Relationship to God is first and primary; our relationship to others flow from it. The problem with love, however, is that it can be a vague term. People fit it with almost any meaning they want. Particularly in a culture that thinks of love as something a person can "fall" in and out of, the biblical meaning and significance of love needs careful attention. Biblical love, as we are constantly reminded is not an emotion. It is an attitude, a mind set.

It is this attitude that will overcome evil with the good of Christ. The "heap burning coals on their heads" phrase refers back to an Old Testament Proverb. The meaning is most like two things, Just like God's kindness leads us to repentance, showing God's kindness to our enemies can lead them to the love of God. The other meaning is that we should be concerned about love and let God handle judgement because that is His role not ours.

Live in the constant love of God (see yesterdays comments) and...

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Romans 11 (click here)

2009-08-06T08:05:00.002-05:00

Paul moves further into the discussion of God's plan for all of the world through the Jewish people. His reference to the prophet Elijah and the 7,000 people who would not bow to Baal is in 1 Kings 19:10-18 and a powerful story of the still, small voice of the Lord. We should remember in our busy, hectic lives to listen for God's voice.
The explanation of the gentiles being grafted (or cut in) into the root of Israel can be a little tricky. But it's kind of like this: Christ, the promised Messiah, came from the root or family line of Jesse, King David's father, so he came from the Jewish family line started way back with Abram. Israel was God's chosen plant. Because of Christ we, non-Jewish people, can be added to the plant and grow in Christ, becoming part of God's chosen plant. Here is the wikipedia link to what actual plant grafting is if that helps you understand the picture Paul is painting. In short we today are not part of God's chosen people but through Christ we became that, which God had planned to do from the beginning.
Most of your Bibles have a heading before verse 33 that says Doxology. The link is another wikipedia explanation that is pretty good. Basically a doxoglogy is a word or words of giving glory to God. Glory can be thought of as presence, I pray that you will praise God for who He is and what He has done for you. Speak of His glory to Him, and live in His glory (presence) thoughout your day as you...

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Romans 10 (click here)

2009-08-05T09:27:00.002-05:00

Romans 10

Paul is issuing a warning here to Gentile Christians who have become "proud" of their Christianity and looked down on Jewish Christians. Paul really puts the brakes on that, because without God's chosen people and His work among them, Christianity would not be available. V. 9-10 were really familiar to me, like they are to some of you, but they really hit me today and I had this thought, "is when I accepted Christ that last time I confessed Him?" There is a time for all Christians that make the initial confession but then we are committing to always confess Him our mouth and believe in our heart.
So some questions:
Are we guilty of being arrogant about being Christians?

What do we do?

There were huge differences between the Jews and Gentiles, and some of each side thought the other did not deserve Christ.
Who do you for whatever reason think does not deserve the Gospel?

How can we be "obstinate (stubborn) people" sometimes?

Call upon the name of the Lord today and...

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Romans 8 and 9 (click here)

2009-08-04T08:31:00.002-05:00

A note from Justin: I deeply apologize for not posting yesterday. I read the passage and simply forgot to post. Today is Ch. 9 of Romans, so we're still on track, I hope you keep reading. Again, I'm sorry for my absent mindedness

Romans 8 and 9

Ch. 8 is actually pretty straightforward, if we live in the Spirit we experience peace, contentment, and clarity even in the really confusing world we live in. The last section of verses speak of the victory believers have because of the love of Christ given on our behalf. The phrase "more than conquerors" could be understood from the original language as "super conquerors", as believers rooted in the Spirit we do not just survive we overwhelmingly overcome. This is not just talking about after we die and go to Heaven, but we should live in the fact that we stuff comes we have a deep hope in the God who spoke the world into existence. Life is tough, really tough some times but the love of Christ cover all of it and victory is possible if we stay close to Him. Even if we don't know how to pray in those times the Spirit calls out. Don't just hang in there, hang on to Christ and super conquer.

Ch. 9 begins to deal with the salvation of the Jewish people and inclusion of non Jews into that plan. There are probably a lot more questions here than answers, so I'm gonna let questions or statements guide the discussion of ch. 9. Just click comments, type your comment, and post (either using you Blog ID , your name, or anonymous). Know that those who trust in the Lord will never be put to shame and...

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Romans 7 (click here)

2009-08-02T08:12:00.002-05:00

Paul is really trying to show those who follow the Law that following Christ is not rejecting the Law but following it for what it was intended to bring. The simple truth is this: if we did not have the Old testament Law (10 commandments, etc) we would not be aware that some of things we do are sin, if we were not aware of our sin we would go on sinning, because we are aware of our sin we can come and live for Jesus who forgives sin and makes it possible for us to sin less.
Someone might say then why give the Law, if we did not have it then we wouldn't know we were sinning and everyone would be okay. That does not work because even if I don't know I am sinning, I am still sinning and still an enemy of God.
Paul points out what happens to all of us. The Law tells us what sin is and instead of turning away from it we become more interested in it and desire it more. That is our sinful nature, to go after more sin. When we come to Christ we come to a new nature and that new nature conflicts with our sinful nature. The only one that can help us is the One that saves us. Stay close to Christ and you will have victory over the sinful nature, stay close to sin and you'll lose every time. I pray that you'll know the power of the risen Jesus over your sin problem and that you will run towards Christ and...

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Romans 6 (click here)

2009-08-01T08:34:00.002-05:00

Paul uses what seems to be an obvious illustration to get a very important point across. The logic basically goes like this: would it make sense that sense God's grace extends and extends even as our sinful lifestyle extends and extends, then we should keep sinning more and more to get more and more grace. Paul uses very strong language to say no. When we accept the grace of God we die to sin and live in Christ. Too often I really want to live for Christ without dying to sin. If Jesus did not die on the cross, the resurrection would not have been necessary. In the same way if we want to live the abundant life we have to kill our sin at the cross of Christ. Scripture says we have to do this initially, when we come to Christ, and daily as we take up our cross.
What do you need to die to today, you can't kill it take it to Christ and...

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Romans 5 (click here)

2009-07-31T14:39:00.002-05:00

I was so pumped when I got to this chapter today. Verses 3-5 have been on my heart for the about three weeks and I hadn't taken the time to look it up. It is great to know that if we place our hope in Christ it will be grown, tested, and challenged but the Hope of Christ will never disappoint.

How does perseverance produce hope?
Do you ever feel disappointed in the hope of Christ (even though you know you shouldn't, what causes the doubts)?

No matter who you are your sin, any sin, makes you an enemy of Christ, but it does not have to stay that because of the justification (saving) accomplished through the cross.

What would have happened if Adam would not have sinned?

V.20 says that after Moses the Law was added so that trespasses might increase.

Why would this need to happen?

You need to know and your friends need to know that death of Jesus is all consuming, you cannot out sin the grace of God, it covers everything. We must live by this grace and grow up into Christ so that as we experience the precious grace of Christ we sin less because we fall more in love with Christ.

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Romans 4 (click here)

2009-07-30T08:23:00.002-05:00

In this chapter Paul is explaining the free gift of salvation using a very familiear story, that of Abraham, to make his point. If it were possible for us to work for salvation, Paul states, then God would be under obligation to give it to us just as an employer is obligated to pay a working employee.

How is your salvation a free gift?

Do you believe God and why?

What does the phrase "credited to him as rightousness mean." ?

I hope you are reading and I would love to see some discussion come out of this, so that is why today's entry is a little shorter.

Romans 4:23-25 is the life testimony for all those who claim to trust Christ.

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Romans 3 (click here)

2009-07-29T06:46:00.003-05:00

God's righteousness, that He is full of right, is proof that He is trustworthy or faithful. Evidently some people were accusing Paul of saying that in order for us to know how perfect God is we have to continually sin. This, Paul says, is completely false because who God is does not depend on who we are or what we do. God's law teaches us that we all come short of what God wants, but simply trying to follow a list of rules won't fix the problem. In His justice God must punish those who oppose Him with their lives, those who are not righteous, and that is everyone. This is why we use the term "saved" when we talk about having a relationship with Jesus, we are saved from what our lives of sin earn us, that is death.

Some of the Jews felt they were okay before God because they had the law. In what ways do people sometimes think that our following rules alone will make us okay with God?
How is God's wrath justified?

God is the only one that can make us okay before Himself, so it is our trust in Him that justifies or save us in His presence. Not just the good ones among us but all of us. We are all able to be saved because of the sacrifice of Christ. Such great a salvation demands a life that is obedient in word, action, and thought.

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Romans 2 (click here)

2009-07-28T08:59:00.002-05:00

Because Paul is a Jew who has accepted Christ as the Messiah and been sent out to the Non-Jews (gentiles) to preach the gospel a lot of Romans will deal with the issues brought out in this chapter. The major issue is that some Jews were maintaining that the gentiles must practice the religous rituals of Judiasm, become Jews, before they had an opportunity to become followers of Christ. In Ch. 2 Paul is establishing that going through the motions of religion has little effect if your life does not reflect commitment and relationship with God.

Are Christians (people of God) ever guilty of getting non-Christians to do religion while forgetting the relationship?

We must remember that our goal is Christ it is not to be better than other people, that turns us into judgemental, half hearted Christians. Look at Christ, go hard after Him, love people, and....

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Romans 1 (click here)

2009-07-27T07:37:00.002-05:00

Here we are, day 22 and a new book. One of the things Scripture says about itself is that it is "living and active, penetrating even to the joints and marrow, it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart." I hope you experience that as you open yourself up to God's message.

Romans reads a little different than John because for one its a letter and John is gospel report, and so the conversation may look a little different, but I hope you will jump in so that we can grow together.

Paul begins with addressing is audience and then shares his passion for the Gospel message (v.16)

Why are we some times ashamed of the Gospel?
How can we express excitement over the Gospel in our lives?

Paul's discussion about God shows Himself, thus making every person on the earth accountable is both helpful and challenging.

How are God's invisible qualities displayed for everyone to see?
In what way is God being fair in judging the whole world?
What created things do we worship today? (v.25)
Why did God give those who suppress the truth (v.18) over to their desires?
How do we see that happening today? (hint: in many of the same ways)

Parents would want me to point out that Paul lists, "not listening to their parents," in the list of the horrible, sinful things the wicked do. And this deserves to be noted, because it is a clear violation of God's expectation. It should also be pointed out, that the other things in those list (insulting, slandering, etc.) make it difficult to listen to parents. Maybe reconciliation can happen if both sides admit their shortcomings, repent, and commit to give their relationship back over to the Lord.

John 21 (click here)

2009-07-26T07:26:00.002-05:00

There are many things to discuss about this chapter and some inconsequential but interesting questions, such as: Where did Jesus get the fish that were already on the fire? and Where were the other disciples?

The reinstatement of Peter is a powerful example of Christ's forgiveness and the need for real repentence, in Peter's case stop feeling down and go serve Christ.

How are you feeding the sheep?
What do you need to turn from and turn to Christ?

Peter's question about John at the end also brings some good questions.

How do we compare our lives to other Christians?
How does this hurt our focus on God's call on our lives?

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John 20 (click here)

2009-07-25T08:00:00.000-05:00

This chapter begins much like the last, dark and bleak but ends with the hope of life and the promise of blessing for faith.

Why is v. 4 included?
What keeps you believing in Christ?

Thomas is remembered generally for this chapter and his apparent skepticism. But let us remember it was Thomas who was willing to die with Christ when they went to Lazarus' aid, and it was Thomas who spoke up also in Ch. 14. John shows us the frailty of human commitment and faith.

How has Jesus answered your doubts?
What doubts to you still have?

The ressurection released the power of God once and for all into every area of life, nothing is out of His control and domain. Walk in the power of God, die to self, and know the hope He brings. Trust Him completely and...

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John 19 (click here)

2009-07-24T22:08:00.004-05:00

This chapter is in one word, sad. Read in isolation, without the hope of the chapters come the death of Christ is a heart wrenching picture as He slowly dies in front of his mother and closest freinds. We are reminded that death is difficult and painful.

Much has been written and said about the sayings of Christ on the cross. I was struck by "I am thirsty." For God's plan to be fulfilled even the littlest of things had to occur, like the physical need of relieving parched lips. God is in the details, in the day in and day out grind of life. Even if your life is difficult and you think no one really cares or notices do not lose heart or focus. Give yourself over completely to the Father in all areas of your life and...

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John 18 (click here)

2009-07-23T07:00:00.004-05:00

This chapter details the beginnings of Jesus's "trial,", death, and ressurection. I was struck by the account of the soldiers coming to the garden and falling to the ground at Jesus' statement of "I am he."
Do we fully recognize the power in Christ?
How do we limit His power?
How have you seen His power?

Pilate's second question to Jesus is one that I think every single person asks multiple times in their life, so I'll put it as a question here.
What is truth?
Can truths that go against each other both be true if each side believes very strongly?
What is the advantage of living a life based on truth?
What truth are you denying that you need to accept?

We serve a God who sent His son for the sole reason of creating a way for us to get to Him. Dwell in the truth and...

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John 17 (click here)

2009-07-22T08:00:00.000-05:00

v.3 Eternal life is knowing Jesus not just living in Heaven.

Is this different from how you have understood eternal life, how so?

v. 17 Sanctify them through the truth. To be sanctified is to be set apart for sacred use.

What does this look like?

What sacred use does your life have?

Jesus seemed to be really concerned that His followers be one so that God would be glorified in the world?

What does Christian oneness look like?

What are some obstacles to this?

Are you a unifier or divider?

If you are a follower of Christ you need to realize that this passage demonstrates that Jesus, the Son of God, prayed for you and your life. Realize today the power of Christ in you and...

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John 16 (click here)

2009-07-21T07:26:00.002-05:00

The disciples did not understand fully who Jesus was and His purpose and impact while He was with them.

Are we the same with the Holy Spirit?

Jesus says that His going away is a good thing in part because that allows the Spirit to come.

Do you ever think following Christ would be easier if you could see Him?
What are the advantages of having the Spirit?

Jesus encourages His followers by proclaiming He has overcome the world.

What does that mean to you?
How do we let the world overcome us?
What does an overcoming life look like?

Joy is a miraculous gift. It is not of this world and cannot be taken away by this world. May you find strength in the joy of Christ and may you...

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John 15 (click here)

2009-07-20T07:00:00.001-05:00

This is a difficult passage for me in some ways because I don't fully understand the gardening explanation. I do know that the vine is the source of life for the branches that come off of it, so let's start there:

If Christ is the vine, what kind of fruit will He produce in His branches?
If we don't bear fruit, what does it mean to be cut off?
How does a branch remain or stay on the vine, how do we do that?

I am guilty, I must confess, of passing over the verses about love because I know it's important that Jesus loves me and that I love others but I really don't give it proper time.

Why do you think it's important to understand the love of Jesus?
How do you show this love to others?
If you don't know the love of Jesus, is it possible to love someone else?

Does this passage teach that we must be hated by the world to be followers of Christ?
Who's opinion of you is the most important to you?
How does the answer to the previous question guide the way you live your life?

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John 14 (click here)

2009-07-19T07:57:00.002-05:00

Some questions out of this familiar, but vital passage:

What are you troubled by today and how can you trust God with it?
Have you ever thought of God counseling you through the Holy Spirit and how does that happen?
If you could ask the Father one question what would it be?
Given the presence and counsel of the Holy Spirit what would be the answer to you question?
Is there anything you love more than you love Christ?
Does that give you never ending peace?
What makes it difficult to love Christ above all else?
If Jesus is the way to the Father why isn't it enough just to aknowledge Jesus, why is following Him essential?

Maybe you have some answers, maybe you have more questions. Hope you are in church today...
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John 13 (click here)

2009-07-18T13:30:00.002-05:00

The NIV says this was the "full extent of His love." Humble service is a defining characteristic of the love of Christ and thus should be the same for His followers.

We don't wash feet today, how can we follow Jesus' example?
Why did Peter first not want Jesus to wash his feet, then change his mind?
How do we miss out on God's blessing by not understanding what He is doing?

The betrayal of Judas is mind boggling for us on this side of the cross. But consider this...

Are our actions ever counter or opposite to the mission of Christ?
Is that betrayal?

Just some quick thoughts. Jump in the conversation and...

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John 12 (click here)

2009-07-17T09:12:00.002-05:00

There is so much in this chapter. I am struck by the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy in Jesus' triumphal entry, his prediction of His death, and the unbelief of the people.
v.43 really stuck out to me. Evidently some of the Jewish leaders believed Jesus' message and testimony about Himself, yet they refused to be vocal witnesses because in their mind it was better to be praised by men (liked) than praised by God (blessed).

In what ways do we choose the praise of men over the praise of God?
Why does it seem better in the short term to be liked (men) than to be blessed (God)?
Whaat are the long term benefits of people's approval and the long term benefits of God's approval?

It's important to note that seeking God's approval doesn't mean making sure people don't like you, some will and hopefully there will be people who encourage you to seek God. But the point is that seeking the praise of God should be our primary goal. Everything else is secondary. Have a blessed day and...

go live,

John 10 (click here to read)

2009-07-15T08:56:00.002-05:00

Jesus uses the illustration of the shepherd and the sheep pen to show that is the One to really follow. He is the good shepherd, but are we good sheep? He is not only the shepherd, the caretaker, he is also the sheep gate, the only real access for the sheep.

What thieves do we allow in our lives that lead us away from Christ, the good shepherd?
v. 10- What does the "life to the full" look like, and do you experience that in your life?

Several times now in John the Jews have tried to sieze him and have even had stones in their hands, yet we are repeatedly told that Jesus' time had not come and he escaped. Also in this chapter Jesus speaks of laying down His life willingly and picking it up again, without anyone taking it from Him.

What does this say about God's control over the cross?
If the cross was His idea what does that say about His character and His love for you?

The last few verses talk about Him going back to where His ministry began, and the people seeing the truth in Him?

If Christ is truth, what does that call us to do in response?
Why are false things so tempting?
Is your life true, is it consistent?

Keep reading the word, stretching your mind and heart, conversing with God and others and...

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John 9 (click here to read the passage)

2009-07-14T09:22:00.002-05:00

It was a firmly held belief in Jesus' culture that physical deformities were a direct result of sin.

What do you think of Jesus' answer to the disciples question in v. 3-4
Why is their a temptation to blame God when things are not ideal and yet a lack of praise to Him when things are better?

The miracle of the man born blind was basically ireffutable yet it was apparently widely debated.

What was the man's testimony?
The testimony of the man's parents was "go ask him." What caused their apprehension or fear, and what causes us to hold back our testimony some times?
What was Jesus' purpose and point in this miracle?
What is He trying to demonstrate in your life and are you letting Him?

Respond as you would like, let's keep the great conversation going. If you have heard from Christ you have been given spiritual vision, so....

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John 8 (click here)

2009-07-13T08:15:00.002-05:00

Jesus is eager to reveal who He is and what He came to do, but some of the people seem to not have a clue and not care even what He has to say.

Why don't we want to hear from Jesus sometimes?

When the teachers of the Law brought the woman to Jesus, they were using her to try and trap Jesus with a tricky question.

In what ways are we guilty of trying to prove a point and forgetting or disregarding individuals involved?

Jesus talked about being a slave to sin, and being free in Christ.

Why is slavery to sin more attractive than freedom in Christ?
When Jesus says "free indeed", what does that mean to you?
How could living in a "free country" such as that United States, cause us to take for granted or even resist the freedom Jesus offers? (think about the response of the Jews in this passge)

We hope that you will respond to some or all of these questions and post your comments or maybe more questions. Let's keep the conversation going, pursue the truth and...

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John 7 (click here)

2009-07-12T08:30:00.002-05:00

The Pharisees knew just enough about Jesus to be completely wrong about Him. Even when Nicodemus, who had sought Him out in Ch. 3, tried to at least get his fellow pharisees to talk with Christ they just dismissed him. They argued that the Messiah must come from the line of David and out of Bethelehem, but Jesus was from Galilee. Even just a simple investigation would have revealed that Jesus through Joseph was in fact out of the line of David and was born in Bethlehem. The were dead set on rejecting Jesus and did exactly that except for Nicodemus who we will see again at Jesus' death. Many of us make up our minds about Christ without ever having a conversation with Him. Read the Word and pray, for believers it is a precious gift to be able to converse with the King of Kings. Now don't go looking for what you want to hear but be open to the reality that Christ is moving and wants to include you. Get to know Jesus, all of Him and....

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John 6

2009-07-11T10:11:00.005-05:00

One of the really cool things about the Spirit speaking through God's word is that no matter how many times you read it, the Lord can bring out a hidden truth. I have read the story of the feeding of the 5,000 since I was very young and I even knew that it made Jesus really popular. But, v. 15 really stuck out to me today because I got to thinking that everything in us as humans would've told Jesus to go for it when the people wanted to forcibly make Him king. Because of His spiritual nature (talked about in v. 63) He withstood the temptation of earthly fame (Matthew 4 tells us he'd initially withstood this temptation in the wilderness) and withdrew to be alone. I pray that you and I will hear the call of God above the noise of earthly praise.
The story of Jesus calming the sea took me back to Kirk who spoke to our students at camp. He told a story of two ships on the same sea, blown by the same wind. One ship made it, the other was destroyed because it veered off course. Without Jesus at the center of your life (right in the middle of the boat) you and will float off course and become in danger of destruction.
There's much more to say about this chapter, so I'll let you all say it. Have a great day and....

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John 5 (click here)

2009-07-10T09:13:00.003-05:00

Jesus is our way to God but also our example of how to live for God He says some powerful things toward that end in this chapter He has a intimate relationship with the Father and can only do what He sees the Father doing. We must allow the Holy Spirit to open our eyes to the work of the Father then submissively join him, this is life. He condemns the Pharisees for looking for eternal life in the Scriptures and then not believing what they clearly reveal, to read, understand, and live out the Scriptures is life. We must always remember that our goal is Christ, that is where peace, hope, and wholeness are truly found.
This first week has been great, keep on reading, posting, and most importantly living.

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John 4 (click here)

2009-07-09T13:36:00.002-05:00

Im so late today, my bad. John 4 is ripe with lessons and challenges for us. V. 4 says Jesus had to go through Samaria to Galilee. The Jews of that day didn't associate with Samaritans and there was a route around Samaria, but Jesus was compelled to go because there was a divine appointment. To make an impact for the Kingdom of God we must be willing to go where He tells us. This is becoming a theme in John's Gospel. It is truly inspiring and challenging to here Jesus' words of the ripe harvest. I can imaging Jesus looking out on the Galiliean country side seeing the coming physical harvest and the people who the Samaritan woman had witnessed to also walking over the hillside. God has plans of drawing people to Himself and wants to involve His people in the Harvest. Will we go?
The mircale at the end of the chapter shows Christ attention to detail and overwhelming power. He makes a point to tell the man that He should worship the Christ not the miracles and then proceeds to heal the man's son immediateley. There is power in Christ. Ah, it's been a rushed day and I need to post but somebody please comment about "worshipping in Spirit in Truth."

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Day 3 (click here for John 3)

2009-07-08T07:46:00.002-05:00

Jesus' conversation with Nicodemus reminds us that a relationship with Christ is physical in that we experience it in our bodies and live it out in our daily lives, yet it is ultimately a spiritual act and deeply spiritual reality. Many ancient philosophies that are still around in different forms today tried to separate the physical and the spiritual but in Christ our physical bodies, our physical reality is changed by the power and work of the Spirit. Jesus wants us to understand that the key to life is not in what we can see and touch but the key to life is allowing His Spirit to overtake us and form us into the Children of God.
V. 30 is key in understanding how we will see Christ move in our homes, our schools, our friends, and our churches. We must be willing to lose the attention, the applause, and the focus and give others the opportunity to "fix their eyes on Jesus the author and perfecter of our faith"(Hebrews 12:2) I am reminded again of a song from an obscure youth musical I did when I was a teenager, "I've gotta point you to Jesus or a may as a well sit down, you know He's the one who frees us not the glitter of an earthly crown, I don't need another idol I've got enough inside me now, I've gotta point you to Jesus or I may as well sit down." Our lives either point to us, merely physical what you can see and touch which leads to self centeredness and self gratification, or they point beyond us to the life changing power of the Spirit.

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Day 2 (click on title to go to John 2)

2009-07-07T09:36:00.002-05:00

The gospel writer, John, wastes no time in getting the activity of Christ. The first half is an interesting conversation between Jesus and his earthly mother. He says, "my time has not yet come," and she tells the servants to do whatever He says. Mary knew that there was a power in Jesus that could do anything, absolutely anything. There are times in my life that I just give up on situations and/or people, because I think it's a lost cause. All things are possible with Christ, and just like in this story the master said this was choice wine, everything that Christ does is best. The way that we experience the full power of Christ is in our submission to do whatever He tells us.
The second half of Ch. 2 is interesting because in other Gospels we read this account of the temple clearing during the week leading up to Jesus' death on the cross. Some scholars think John is just telling it earlier to make a point, while others think that Jesus cleared the temple on two occasions. In either case, there is a powerful challenge for us in Jesus' words to the money changers who were cheating people for their own profit right there in the temple of God. Jesus goes on to say that His body is the true temple. We must be very careful how we treat our bodies and where we allow Christ, the temple of God in us, to be and go. I was thinking about dating relationships when I read Jesus' words about making the Temple a market place. Many times we place selfish human relationships that aren't really relationships above our passion to follow Jesus. Follow Jesus and He will lead you to the best friendships, family relationships, and dating relationships. When we follow relationships first they very rarely lead us to Jesus.
The comments and responses have been great to the blog, I'll try to post earlier in the day than I did today. Keep it up and.....

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Day 1

2009-07-06T07:28:00.002-05:00

Well here it is, after the excitement of camp and the anticipation of something new this is where it counts. What are we going to do with God's word and the power of the Holy Spirit in our lives?If you click on the title of this post (day 1) it will take you to an online version of John 1, and you can read it in different versions, which can help with understanding and a fresh perspective.
So some things that stuck out to me (the first one I got from KC, that's how this conversation thing works)

v. 4 Jesus is all that is necessary for life and His life is the light necessary to sustain our lives. Do I keep out the light? or do I run to the light of Christ and carry it with me everywhere I go?
v. 12-13 We are children of God if we choose to trust in and live like Jesus. We are not just associated with Christ, or mere believers but we can be in the family, a really good family.
v.14 The Message, which is a helpful tool in understanding Scripture, says that Jesus "moved into the neighborhood" when He came to earth. Not only did He come to the world but He made himself available to EVERYONE and if we truly carry His light, we will carry it to EVERYONE.
v. 35-43 Two times in this section we have the phrase come and see, once by Jesus and once by Phillip to his brother Nathaniel. Jesus is wanting you and I to fully experience a relationship with Him to get to know Him and then to make Him known. If Jesus is truly what life is all about, then He is worth telling our friends about, even if we think they don't want to hear it.
v. 42 Jesus changes Peter name to fit Peter for a healthy relationship with Him. Either by others, or by ourselves we give ourselves lots of names. "Hypocrite", "Faker", "Loser", "Jock", "Nerd", "Geek", and the list goes on. Not all of those are intended to be insults, but the name that really matters is the name that Jesus gives. Throughout the Bible those who belong to Christ are called sons, daughter, overcomers, conquerors, a royal priesthood, saved, redeemed. You may not know what all those mean but trust me they are incredible and much better than the names we often take on.

Not everyday will be this long, but let's think together about what the Word is saying and what we need to be in response to the Spirit. Please post your comments or questions, if you want to keep it private you can email Justin at youth.faith@sbcglobal.com

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Welcome to 68 Days In the Word

2009-07-04T22:42:00.004-05:00

Our student ministry at Faith Baptist Church just returned this past Friday from Horizon Summer Camp at Heart of Texas Baptist Encampment in Brownwood, TX. It was a great week and our students had a great time enjoying the presence of the Lord and one another. There were two points made during the week that really had an impact on me. First, was the explanation that God always seeks to be in conversation with us, and as His followers in relationship with Him we should wholeheartedly participate in that conversation. Second, was the challenge to grow in our relationship with the Lord by reading His word. Now this sounds like typical camp rhetoric but this time it really hit me, if life happens after camp how can we best be prepared to stay focused? The answer lies in living by the Spirit and one major way the Spirit speaks is through God's word. So, this blog was created to provide a place of challenge, accountability, and conversation while we seek to get a well rounded albeit small picture of God's word. We want this to be a beginning and not an end. So the plan is to read a chapter a day beginning with John (21 days) then Romans (16 days), and Proverbs (31 days). This is a total of 68 days, thus the title of the blog and the prayer that in these next 68 days that revival will come in our lives, our families, our church, and our community as the Spirit speaks through God's word. We start Monday, July 6th and will post observations and questions each day. Please leave comments about what the scripture says and how it applies to your life, messages of encouragement and challenge are also welcomed. I am excited about the possibilities and pray for God's blessing as we read, do, and live the truth of His revelation to humanity.