Listen to God

Today's reading is found in Exodus 20. God spoke to the people of Israel and delivered to them the Law which was to be obeyed completely. It's strange that we always think that God spoke to Moses alone regarding the Law. Yet, when you read the previous chapter, you notice that God came down to speak to all the people.

According to Moses, God had spoken to them and given them the Law in order "to test you, so that the fear of God will be with you to keep you from sinning." But the people were afraid and asked Moses not to let God speak to them because they would die. They wanted Moses to be the spokesperson. Can you believe that? They had the unique opportunity of hearing God's voice and they turned it down!

Today I've learned that God still desires to speak to each and every one of us. Yet, we have become too busy and maybe even lazy that we would rather have someone else tell us what God is saying. We are unwilling to pay the price of building a relationship with Him. We don't want to "waste" time hearing from someone who's just going to tell us what to do. This is the day and the right time in which we need to stand and hear God speak to us. No middle people. No distractions. Just listen to God and fear Him so that you will no longer sin against Him!

Do You Know God?

Today's reading is found in Exodus 14. Pharaoh and the Egyptians got over their grief and figured out they had made a terrible mistake by allowing the people of Israel leave the land. In their despair, they decided to make the Israelites pay for the tragic loss of their firstborns. So Pharaoh called out for 600 chariots and officers to go after the fleeing people. It's very difficult to understand the Israelites reaction. God had promised to set them free. But when they saw the approaching army, they were terrified! Yet, they did not know God well and that caused them to doubt and be afraid. In their anguish, they spoke harsh words against Moses and they forgot how they had been oppressed and tortured.

When Moses consulted God, he received some really crazy information. Moses was to tell the people to continue moving forward. But how? The Red Sea was right in front of them! Where were they to go? God gave orders for Moses to raise his staff and stretch out his hand and the waters would be parted. Yeah right! Funny thing is that Moses did not struggle with the idea. He did not question the orders. He simply obeyed! In the meantime, God's angel stood at the rear of the Israelites and protected them from Pharaoh's attack. The very cloud which served as a light to God's people became darkness to those who were against God.

Can you imagine the sight of a sea opening up? Walls of water on either side and dry ground to walk on! That's a miracle! The Israelites were allowed to get through and there's no mention of anyone rushing them to get through. Though they did not waste time either. Once all of them got across, Pharaoh and his army followed down the open sea. But God messed them up by jamming the wheels on their chariots to the point that they got stuck. Notice what the Egyptians said, "Let's get away from the Israelites! The LORD is fighting for them against Egypt." They finally recognized that God was with the Israelites. Unfortunately, it was too late. God commanded Moses to raise his hand over the sea again and the waters began to close upon the Egyptians. The entire army was swallowed up by the waters.

The Israelites witnessed God's awesome power to provide salvation. And the conclusion of the chapter states, "the people feared the LORD and put their trust in him and in Moses his servant."

Today I've learned that God fulfills His promises. He's promised protection from those who persecute us and from those who are bent on harming us. And even if your back is against the sea, you must trust, wait and believe that God will provide salvation. Terror, doubts and complaints will solve absolutely nothing. Lift up your hands towards God. Don't sit to contemplate your situation! Keep moving! But the truth is that you'll never be able to accomplish any of this if you do not know well whom you are following and serving. You must know God and experience His awesome power! Want to know God? Read His Word and speak with Him. He will make Himself known.

God Knows Better Than We Do

Today's reading is found in Exodus 13:17-22. God fulfilled His promise of freedom to the people of Israel. It's interesting to note that God could have taken the people through the easy way. But that shortcut would have meant serious struggles and battles. So God decided to take the people through the desert. Though the people of Israel went out of Egypt prepared for battle, God did not allow them to fight.

God also honored Joseph's faith. Before his death, Joseph had asked his brothers to swear on oath that they would not leave his bones in Egypt once God set them free. It took 400 years for the people of Israel to await their freedom! And Moses kept the promise that had been made by taking Joseph's bones with them.

God also provided protection for the people of Israel. His presence was manifested through a cloud during the day and a pillar of fire during the night. They were not alone in the middle of the desert. God's presence was ahead of them at all times. No need to fear; no excuse for uncertainty. God was right there to guide and protect them!

Today I've learned that God always fulfills His promises. No wonder the Bible says about Him, "God is not man, one given to lies, and not a son of man changing his mind. Does he speak and not do what he says? Does he promise and not come through?" (Numbers 23:19 - The Message). How wonderful that 400 years or more may pass, but God never forgets His promises! He will set us free from sin's dominion and though it may seem He takes us through the desert, it is simply to protect and manifest His glory to us. Just as He did with the people of Israel, He will stand before us to cast away all our fears and to dissipate all uncertainties. We may not understand what He's doing...but He knows better than we do.

Give Us Your Life!

Today's reading is found in Luke 24:1-12; 36-49. It tells the story of Jesus' resurrection. Early in the morning of the first day of the week, some women went to visit Jesus' tomb to annoint His body. Imagine their surprise when they arrived at the tomb and found the stone at the entrance had been rolled away! It's strange that they stood there wondering what had happened. Did they not remember what Jesus had said about coming back to life? The good thing is that there were two angels present who reminded them that Jesus was no longer in the tomb because He had risen!

Later on, Jesus appeared to the disciples. They were very afraid of Him thinking He was a ghost. But Jesus proved His identity by showing the wounds on his hands and feet. Then He proved His physical presence by allowing the disciples to touch Him and by eating some broiled fish. Finally, Jesus told the disciples that they would be witnesses of these incredible things. But before they went out to tell others about these things, they had to wait for what the Father had promised: The Holy Spirit. In the meantime, they were all to wait in Jerusalem until they received power.

Today I've learned that I no longer need to seek God amongst the dead. He will not be found in my dead lifestyle. He will not be found in my dead way of thinking. He will not be found in my dead habits. He will not be found in my dead sins. Jesus is alive and He's looking to bring me to life! He's as real today as He was on that day He showed Himself to the disciples. And He's still willing to give to me the Father's promise: The Holy Spirit! By His power I can tell others about this new life of power to serve Him.

Let's Do God's Will

Today's reading is found in Exodus 7:1-7. God spoke to Moses and told him He would set the people of Israel free. Unfortunately, the king of Egypt would not listen or obey God's command. No matter what miracles and wondrous signs God performed, the Egyptian king would simply become more and more stubborn. But Pharaoh's unwillingness to surrender would simply give God grounds to punish the entire Egyptian nation for their cruelty against His people. No matter who stood in the way, they would be crushed in order to give way to God's perfect will!

Today I've learned that God's power is incredibly awesome. He will do what He wishes whether I listen or not. Though, He desires that I surrender my life to Him so that I can enjoy His blessings. But if I choose not to listen or obey, then He will still do what He wants, and then He'll bring forth judgement. Let us do God's will. It's much better than having to suffer the consequences.

God Used a Simple Bush

Today's reading is found in Exodus 3. It tells the story of Moses' encounter with God. Moses was tending his father-in-law's flock when suddenly he noticed a burning bush. The slightest spark could cause these extremely dried bushes to burst into flames. But what really caught Moses' attention was that the bush was not consumed. So he drew closer to look at this interesting sight. He never would have thought that God would speak to him from that dried, thorny and useless bush.

Today I've learned that God can use anything or anyone to manifest His presence and glory. For Moses, He used a bush. And not even the highest quality or best looking bush. This wild acacia plant was very dry and thorny. But it was still willing to allow God to use it for His honor. Can you grasp the important lesson God is providing here? It doesn't matter whom you may be, He can still use you for His glory! You may find yourself as dry and thorny as that bush. You may find yourself in a deserted place. You may think you are insignificant and worthless. But God can still use you! Yet, you must understand: That acacia bush did not have a will to change. It remained the same. But you have a will and God's desire is that as He uses you, you may desire to change to bring honor and glory to His name. You think this is impossible? Remember, He used a simple bush. And He can most certainly use you.

Coincidence? No. God-Incidence!

Today's reading is found in Exodus 2:1-10. It tells the story of a man and a woman who lived in Egypt, got married and had a baby boy. During that time, the king or Pharaoh of Egypt had demanded that all baby boys be put to death as a means of population control. He did not want to have too many boys who would grow up to be men who would eventually rise against him. For three months this baby's parents cared for him. Can you imagine trying to keep a baby quiet during his or her first three months of life? That was mission impossible, but they did it! Unfortunately, after three months, the parents could no longer care for the baby. The mother thought of a good plan: She put the baby in a basket and released him on the Nile River. She asked her daughter to follow the basket to ensure the baby would be fine.

That same day, Pharaoh's sister had gone to the river to bathe. She sent her maid to get the basked from the reeds. When she looked in the basket she found the baby boy crying. Her heart went out to him and she decided to keep the baby. Out of the reeds also appeared the baby's sister who offered to find a woman to care for the baby. Pharaoh's sister agreed to allow the woman to nurse the baby. She would even pay for the baby's care! Eventually, the baby was returned to Pharaoh's sister who adopted him and named him MOSES.

Today I've learned that everything that happens is under God's control. It was God who moved the baby's mother to put him in a basket on the Nile River on the same day Pharaoh's sister would be bathing in the same place. It was God who led the basket right to the arms of Pharaoh's sister. And it was God who moved her heart to accept the baby and care for him. What a terrible thing to have to get rid of a baby by putting him in the water! But God knew what He was doing. Today, no matter what we may be confronting, we must understand that God has a special plan and purpose. So don't worry. Things will be allright. When things finally get resolved don't think it was all a coincidence. No. It's all about God-Incidence!

Time for Burial

Today's reading is found in Genesis 50. How sad that Joseph lost his father! He had been separated from him for such a long time, but this time it was final. Yet, Joseph loved his father so much that he gave him an honorable burial. The funeral procession was so impressive and the mourning was so profound that the neighboring Caananites renamed the burial place Abel-Mizraim (which means, "mourning of the Egyptians").

The sad thing about this is that Joseph's brothers sent him a message saying, "Your father left these instructions before he died: 'This is what you are to say to Joseph: I ask you to forgive your brothers the sins and the wrongs they committed in treating you so badly.' Now please forgive the sins of the servants of the God of your father." No wonder Joseph wept after he got the message! You see? Joseph had already forgiven his brothers for their sin against him. When he embraced and kissed them, he was displaying a genuine love for them. But now that Jacob had died, they thought Joseph would maliciously go after them! That would have been enough to be offended, grow bitter and resentful and to really treat them badly. But Joseph responded to them with kind words and reassured them he was not out to get revenge.

Today I've learned that forgiveness is very important. Yet, there are people who will not be able to accept that forgiveness because they have not been able to release their guilt. That's what happened to Joseph's brothers. But when you and I choose to genuinely forgive others their offenses, we will be able to speak kind words to them and reassure them of our love. We will only be able to do this if we have truly buried away any ill-feelings or our desires to see those who have wronged us pay for their mistakes. Why continue to carry those terrible thoughts and memories? It's time for their burial before they contaminate your heart and mind to the point where they bury you.

Jesus Cried

Today's reading is found in Luke 19. The last verses tell the story of Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem. Can you just imagine the view? Jesus riding on a colt that had never been properly trained for this task. Yet, it knew its Master needed its service at the time and it behaved well. The crowds of followers started to remember all that Jesus had done for them and they grew enthusiastic. They shouted and praised God for the things Jesus had done. The people also threw their clothes down the path Jesus followed as a sign of welcome. What an exciting time for Jesus, don't you think?

Sadly, the story says that as Jesus came closer to the city, "he cried." How could this be? Wasn't this the moment He had come to expect? Had He not come to be proclaimed as the Messiah and accepted as such? Was He overwhelmed by the reception? No!!! The Bible tells us:

"The human heart is the most deceitful of all things, and desperately wicked. Who really knows how bad it is? But I, the Lord, search all hearts and examine secret motives. I give all people their due rewards, according to what their actions deserve.” (Jeremiah 17:9, 10 - NLT)

Jesus understood that these people were praising God for what He had done, not for whom He was. God was standing right in front of them and all they could see was a healer, a food supplier, a teacher, a carpenter, Mary's son, etc. They failed to see God Himself! That's why Jesus cried.

Today I've learned that it is time for us to acknowledge Jesus as King and Master of our lives. It's time we stop thinking of Him simply as the One who can get us out of trouble. It's time we stop seeking Him when we are sick and in need of healing. It's time we stop considering Him as a simple miracle worker. He is God! And He deserves all our praise, worship and sacrifice. Jesus cried a long time ago because people refused to accept Him and He knew the consequences they would eventually confront. Today, I don't want to make Him cry. That's why I'm going to live for Him and serve Him as God of my life!

Lord, Are You Trying to Tell Us Something?

Today's reading is found in Genesis 45. God MUST be trying to tell us something! This portion deals with the story of Joseph confronting his brothers. So many years had gone by and Joseph had been so blessed by God that he was now second in command in all of Egypt. On the other hand, Joseph's brothers were in dire need of food. Two years of famine had fallen upon the land and all the people of neighboring lands were in trouble. But Joseph's family turned to Egypt for help not knowing God had a tremendous surprise for them.

Joseph's brothers showed up before Joseph, but they did not recognize him. When the moment was right Joseph revealed himself to his brothers who were quiet in astonishment and terror. Can you imagine that? They had treated him unmercifully and now he stood before them as a ruler who had in his command the right to let them live or to see them die! But notice Joseph's words regarding all that had happened:

"I am Joseph your brother whom you sold into Egypt. But don't feel badly, don't blame yourselves for selling me. God was behind it. God sent me here ahead of you to save lives."

How incredible! So much injustice on Joseph and yet he had no bitterness hidden in his heart. He was so glad to see his brothers that he hugged and kissed them. Not only that, but he understood now that God had allowed all things to happen in order to protect his family. Though his brothers had done so much damage, now Joseph was even providing for their children, their grandchildren and all their possessions.

Today I've learned that God is really interested in our well being. But it cannot be achieved if we continually hold on to grudges which lead us to anger, frustration and bitterness. Let us learn from Joseph the power of forgiveness. Let us understand that everything that happens to us, even those things which are bad, God will transform them into blessings. But we must continue to forgive those who have hurt us.

Requirements To Be a Disciple

Today's reading is found in Luke 17:1-19. Jesus explained to His disciples a few requirements they must meet in order to be true followers. First of all, Jesus taught them the importance of forgivenss; then He told them about faith; and finally He explained the attitude of servanthood.

Jesus told His disciples that they must forgive others. Even if the person commits an offense seven times on the same day and then repents and asks forgiveness, a true disciple will give abundant mercy. Jesus then told His disicples about the importance of faith. In order to have faith, we must undertand that it is "the certainty of what we hope for and the conviction of what we don't see." It's not a matter of having lots of faith, but of having the right kind of faith! In other words, we must believe that God is real and that He rewards those who seek Him (Hebrews 11:6). This is crucial because "without faith, it's impossible to please God." The smallest amount of faith can do great things when we trust and believe God. Finally, Jesus told His disiciples about the importance of servanthood. If practicing forgiveness once in a while and having faith sometimes are difficult tasks that drain us, we must be careful! A servant has no time to rest after completing his or her responsibilities. A servant continually pleases his or her Master and then takes time for himself or herself.

Today I've learned that to be a disciple of Jesus deserves much consideration. It's very easy to say "I love you, Lord." But that does not automatically make us disciples. It's when we obey Him that we show our true colors. It's certainly not easy to forgive those who hurt you. And it's almost impossible to forgive those who hurt you time and time again! But, if we are Jesus' followers, we MUST comply and offer an abundance of mercy and kindness. I've also learned that we must have faith in God. It's not just a matter of believing in His existence, but also in His sovereingty. In other words, He knows what He's doing! I may not understand why I am going through such trials and why I've had to endure such traumatic experiences. But He sees the full picture! He knows why and I must rest on that knowledge. Finally, I've learned that I am called to be a servant. How good it feels when others serve us, especially when the service is prompt and courteous! Well, I must serve others in the same way. No complaints are allowed. No anger or resentment either. This is my job as a servant: To smile and to bless even those who pursposefully hurt me. Jesus gave me the example of what a good servant is and I must follow Him.

Incredibly difficult tasks to accomplish, don't you think? But you don't have to comply...that is, unless you are really committed to Jesus. So, sit down and consider these requirements very carefully. If you aren't willing to meet them, you can't call yourself a disciple. Especially a disciple of Jesus!

God IS With Joseph

Today's reading is found in Genesis 39. The story of Joseph continues. We now find him in Egypt where he was purchased by one of Pharaoh's officials, Potiphar, as a slave. What loneliness Joseph must have felt being away from his family! What sadness must have engulfed him at night as he thought about this terrible thing his brothers had done to him! But in the midst of all that, the Bible tells us that, "God was with Joseph." That's why Joseph worked hard, acted diligently and served with a good attitude.

Unfortunately, one day Potiphar's wife set her eyes on Joseph and tried to seduce him. All her efforts failed because Joseph feared God and respected his boss. Feeling humiliated and scorned, Potiphar's wife accused Joseph of attempted rape. It's interesting to note that Joseph did not make strong attempts for his defense. He was unfairly treated and thrown into prison! But Joseph never complained. And again we find those wonderful words, "But there in jail God was still with Joseph..."

Today I've learned that God was with Joseph in the most difficult times of his life. And in the same way, God is with us when we suffer unjustly; when we are accused and treated unfairly. How wonderful! This passage has a very powerful message for me today. You see, my name is Jose (Joseph in Spanish) and I'm going through some terrible testing times. But I'm glad I can say, "God IS with Joseph."

What Happened to Your Dreams?

Today's reading is found in Genesis 37. It tells the story of Joseph, Israel's youngest son. This boy was 17 years old when he started having some wild dreams. Since he was his father's favorite, his older brothers hated him to death. To make matters worse, Joseph's father had given him a colorful and ornamented robe that distinguished him from the rest.

Joseph's dreams didn't help make matters any better. He dreamed symbolic dreams in which his brothers, mother and father would bow before him. While his brothers jealoulsy refused to believe him, the text says that Israel "kept wondering about the dream." No doubt his father expected his son to grow up to be a powerful man.

One day, while Joseph's brothers were out tending the sheep, Israel called him and asked him to go and see how things were going. Joseph gladly went looking for his brothers. When his brothers saw him coming in the distance, they planned to kill him. But the oldest of the brothers did not want any part in this. Rather than speak up for Joseph, he simple suggested a bit of torture hoping he could return him to his father safely. So they threw him into a dry well. Unfortunately, Reuben wasn't too concerned about Joseph and left him alone with the rest of his brothers. In the meantime, the brothers saw a group of traveling Ishmaelites on their way to Egypt. Judah decided to sell Joseph rather than kill him and the entire group agreed. They approached the Ishmaelites and were given 20 pieces of silver in trade for Joseph.

When Reuben returned for Joseph, he noticed that he was no longer in the dry well. Everyone decided to tear up Joseph's robe, dip it in the blood of a goat they had killed, and present the robe to their father. When Israel saw the robe, he knew it belonged to his son and he cried in deep despair.

Today, I've learned that God has dreams of what He knows you and I can become. The Bible says, "Even before I was born, you had written in your book everything I would do" (Psalm 139:16 - CEV). Unfortunately, sometimes our dreams are hindered by those we love most. But even in that, God does not forsake his dreams about us! Our family may think that we can never become good Christian leaders. Our spouse may believe that because of our past, God can't use us. Our children may believe that it's too late for us to continue our education. But God believes in our dreams! And He believes in them because He wrote them. No matter what circumstances you may encounter today, rest in God's faithfulness. No matter how dismal your situation may appear, His plans are taking place right before your own eyes. And when anyone asks, "What happened to your dreams?" Simply tell them, "God is going to make them happen!"

Kiss It Good-Bye

Today's reading is found in Luke 14. Jesus had been invited to a Sabbath meal at the home of a prominent Pharisee and He was surrounded by people who were simply observing Him. No doubt they had extended an invitation just to set Him up for failure. At that celebration was a man who suffered dropsy (this was a sickness that caused the entire body to swell larger and larger). Funny thing is that the sick man stood right in front of Jesus. Without time to waste, Jesus asked, "Is it right or wrong to heal on the Sabbath day?" The sad thing is that no one answered the question! But Jesus healed the man.

Jesus took advantage of this situation to teach the people at the feast very important lessons. He told them of a man who organized a great banquet and invited many guests. When everything was ready, he sent out for them, but they all made excuses and did not attend. One person stated he had purchased a field and had to go out and see it. Another peson stated he had purchased some oxen and needed to test them. A third one explained that he had just gotten married and so could not come. All were simply excuses! The man became so upset at the actions of his guests that he asked his servants to go out everywhere and anywhere and to find "the poor, the crippled, the blind, and the lame." The man's house became full and those who had been initially invited would not have found a single place where they could be.

Today I've learned that when we invite Jesus into our lives, He will heal those areas that need attention. It is His nature to heal and to restore! He can't and will not sit there just looking at the problem. He will definitely fix it...if we allow Him. Also, you and I have the privilege of being invited to be a part of God's great banquet. But how sad that we continually make worthless excuses not to attend! We say, "I can't go God. I just got a new job and I want to succeed." Or we may say, "I can't go God. I just got a new car (house, property, etc.) and I have to enjoy it." There are some who may even say, "I can't go God. I'm in a new relationship and I've got to make it work."

God is patient and He continues to wait for our positive response. But you will never enter His great banquet while holding on to worthless junk. It's important that you kiss those things good-bye and allow Him to become the priority in your life. "That's too hard," you may say. It is until you kiss it good-bye!

Lessons on Reconciliation

Today's reading is found in Genesis 33. It tells us of the encounter between Esau and Jacob. These brothers had done much wrong and in the process had wounded one another. The pain of betrayal was so great that Esau had vowed to kill Jacob (read Genesis 27:41). But now the moment of encountering each other had arrived. It was a very difficult task and Jacob feared for his life. But it's interesting to note he followed certain things before he went out to meet his brother.

First, Jacob divided his family into groups. He placed a few of his children at the beginning, then in the middle and finally at the end. But notice that he went at the front of the whole group. Second, he bowed seven times before reaching his brother as a sign of respect and submission. Notice also that Jacob had sent gifts ahead of him for his brother. Then, Jacob's entire family bowed before Esau. And finally, Jacob spoke kindly to his brother.

Today I've learned some important lessons about reconciliation. First, it is I who need to face the situation. I don't need to send anyone to say anything because I must confront my problems. Second, I must approach whomever I've offended with an attitude of respect and submission. I can't go in thinking of how hurt I feel or how dissappointed someone has made me feel. Third, a gift will usually be a sign of a willingness to fix the problem. It doesn't have to be a whole bunch of camels (that's what Jacob sent), but maybe the other person's favorite candy or a gift card to their favorite store or restaurant. Simply a token of good will. Also, I must ensure that those around me show proper respect to the person I am approaching. This is critical because I cannot infect others with my own views of the other person. How can I fix things with someone else if I am talking trash to those who surround me? Finally, I must speak gently and kindly. I can't go to someone else accusing and blaming. I must remember what the Bible says in Proverbs 15:1, "A gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make tempers flare."

Remember these important lessons on reconciliation and they will do your broken heart and relationships much good.

No Actors Needed!

Today's reading is found in Luke 12:1-12. Jesus taught His disciples about the importance of staying pure. The Pharisees, the religious leaders, of that time had learned to go through the motions of serving God. But their hearts were so far away from Him. Yet, when anyone tried to serve God with holiness, the religious leaders got angry and dangerous. They thought only they could reach God. But Jesus encouraged His disciples by telling them of God's great love and care for them. God loved each one of them so much, He even knew how many hairs were on their heads. Now that's love! Jesus even said, "When they drag you into their meeting places, or into police courts and before judges, don't worry about defending yourselves—what you'll say or how you'll say it. The right words will be there. The Holy Spirit will give you the right words when the time comes."

Today I've learned that God takes care of those who believe and trust Him. He's not concerned about those who walk around trying to appear righteous. He's not going to deal with those who think they know everything and are unwilling to be taught. He's not going to waste time with those who falsely acuse others while they fail to see their own terrible mistakes. As long as we stand up for God and allow His words to remain in our hearts, He will stand up for us! As long as we stop living like Christian actors (hypocrites), He promises to handle all things no matter how difficult they may seem. Take note and obey because there's no actors needed here.

Let Us Pray

Today's reading is found in Luke 11:1-13. The disciples asked Jesus how to pray. Jesus set for them a sample prayer, not so that they would repeat it time after time. But so that they would know how to pray. The prayer was simple but wonderful. It states,

"Father, help us to honor your name.
Come and set up your kingdom.
Give us each day the food we need.

Forgive our sins, as we forgive everyone who has done wrong to us.
And keep us from being tempted."

Today, I've learned that God hears our prayers. That's why Jesus taught us how to pray. God is concerned with every single aspect of our lives. That is why when we pray, He desires our worship. He also wants us to ask for His will before we even offer our requests. He wants to hear what our needs are (not necessarily our wishes or desires). He expects us to seek His forgiveness as we forgive those who have offended us. Finally, He wants us to ask for His help to stay away from the troubles that all temptations bring. Let us pray just as He taught us how.

How Can I Inherit Eternal Life?

Today's reading is found in Luke 10:25-42. The story begins with an expert of the law approaching Jesus to find out what had to be done in order to inherit eternal life. Jesus asked this expert what was contained in the Law and how did he understand it. The man replied, "'Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, strength, and mind.' They also say, `Love your neighbors as much as you love yourself.'" Then Jesus simply told him to do those things to inherit eternal life. Jesus was not trying to say that our righteousness will get us to heaven. He was trying to point out the impossibility of doing these things without having accepted Him as Savior.

The young man seemed to understand this was a tough request. So he tried to make himself look pious when he asked again, "Who are my neighbors?" The young man wanted to see if Jesus would offer a minimum degree of obedience. But Jesus is more interested in COMPLETE obedience! Jesus said that the man was jumped by robbers and no one stopped to help. The priest simply walked onto the other side of the road when he saw the man. The temple helper saw the beaten man, but he did not do anything to help either. He just went on his way.

Finally, a Samaritan man walked by and he felt sorry for the man who had been attacked! This was strange because Samaritans and Israelites did not have a good relationship. They hated each other to death. But here's this Samaritan helping the wounded man: He treated the wounds and bandaged them, he put the man on his donkey and went to an inn, and he paid the innkeeper enough to care for the man. He was even willing to return later and pay off any further debts that the wounded man may have incurred. That's obedience!!!

Today I've learned that God is not interested in minimum degrees of obedience. There's not such thing in His sight. Why do we call Him Lord if we don't want to fully obey Him? Why do we call Him God if we consider our thoughts greater than His own? It's time we learn to love those whom we consider unlovable and worthless. It's time we set aside our differences from the past and start living a new present. Otherwise, how can we even think about inheriting eternal life?

Want Greatness?

I know I'm running a little bit behind. Please be patient. There's been too many serious problems that have hindered my progress. But I'm back and here we go!

Today's Scripture is found in Luke 9:37-62. I have to say that this portion is extremely funny. It starts with the disciples encountering a man whose son had an evil spirit. The man begged the disciples for help to cast out the demon. But the disciples could not do anything to help. Finally, Jesus came down from the mountain and He took care of the problem immediately. The disciples and everyone around them was shocked.

Now here's the funny part: The disciples could not cast out a demon and then they started to argue about who was the greatest. But Jesus taught them that it's not who can do the greatest things that becomes the greatest. Jesus said, "For he who is least among you all — he is the greatest."

Today I've learned that greatness is not walking close to Jesus. Greatness is not in casting out demons. Greatness is not even doing great things. On the contrary, according to God, greatness is becoming the least. Greatness is welcoming those who are least in our world. So, do you want greatness? Get ready to become the least!

Proof and Sacrifice

Today's reading is found in Genesis 21:1-7 and Genesis 22. The Bible tells us that God granted Sarah the privilege of having a baby. She finally held in her hands the promise child that had been spoken about years earlier. Only God could perform an awesome miracle like this. Especially when we consider that Abraham was already 100 years old! That's why she named him Isaac because "God has brought me laughter, and everyone who hears about this will laugh with me."

But some time later, God spoke to Abraham and told him, "Take your son, your only son, Isaac, whom you love, and go to the region of Moriah. Sacrifice him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains I will tell you about." What a horrible trial! After waiting for so long to have that boy and then God gets the big idea of having him sacrificed. Yet, God is not into human sacrifices. He just wanted to see if Abraham loved more the things that were given to him or if he truly loved the Giver. It's amazing to see that Abraham obeyed every one of God's orders without question. Abraham trusted God! And God blessed his obedience.

Today I've learned that if I truly love God, I must give to Him everything I have. Nothing should be held back. Nothing should be denied. Even things that seem insignificant are important when God requires them. For example, what will I do when God asks me to sacrifice my right for revenge? It's my right. But do I really love God? Will I be willing to give it all? What about you? Do you really love God? Be cautious about how you answer because He may demand proof and sacrifice.

When Jesus Enters Our Lives

Today's Scripture is found in Luke 7:1-35. It tells the stories of people who encountered difficult situations in their lives: Sickness, death and doubt. But Jesus' entry into their lives provided the necessary healing, comfort and certainty.

A centurion, a Roman officer in charge of 100 men, had a sick servant who needed healing. The officer had so much faith in Jesus's power to heal that he simply sent another servant to request the favor. Jesus was extremely impressed with the faith displayed that He gave the order and the servant was healed!

Next, Jesus went to the town of Nain where he came face to face with a widow who was taking her dead son to be buried. Tradition demanded that Jesus and his crew step aside to allow the funeral procession to pass. Yet, Jesus walked up to the coffin and He called out to the dead person to rise. The young man got up and Jesus returned him to his mother.

Finally, John the baptist was struggling with doubt. He sent a couple of his disciples to inquire from Jesus, "Are you the one who was to come, or should we expect someone else?" Jesus performed many miracles and told John's disciples to tell John of what they had seen. We're not told the result, but John never sent disciples to Jesus again.

Today, I've learned that no matter what we may struggle with, Jesus has the answer and the necessary power to provide a solution. Are you battling with sickness? Trust Jesus to speak the Word so that you can be healed! Are you suffering the spiritual death of a loved one? Let Jesus approach the place where you were thinking of burying them and He will give them new life! Are you having doubts that cause fear and uncertainty? Send someone you trust to ask the Lord, "Are you really the One that I was waiting for?" When you see the miracles He can do on your behalf, you will have no more doubts. This will only happen when Jesus enters your life!

Uncommon Mercy

Today's reading is found in Luke 6:27-49. It speaks of issues that we think we already know how to handle: Enemies and those who dislike us. For example, our belief is that if we get hurt, we injure; if we get offended, we await the right time for revenge; if we are slapped, we strike back; if we are disliked, we hate; if we are criticized, we judge. But this is NOT how Jesus taught us to handle these things.

He taught and even gave us the example, that when we are hated, we are to love back! What kind of logic is that? He taught that when we are cursed, we are to bless! But who ever does that? He taught that if someone strikes us, we should turn the other cheek. But we simply allow people two chances because we only have two cheeks!

This is the year to change our current thinking patterns. It's time to allow our thinking to be transformed. The reason? Simple. If we expect our Heavenly Father to have mercy on us (and boy do we need it!) we must show mercy to those who have failed us. We cannot be called "Christians" when all we produce are evil fruits. It's time to give mercy. Only then will we be able to know God's uncommon mercy for us.

The Consequences of Half-Hearted Obedience

In Genesis 12, God spoke to Abram that he was to leave his country, family and father's home in order to go to the land that would be given him. Yet, Abram decided to obey half-heartedly. He did leave as God asked, but he took his nephew Lot with him. Because of this manner of incomplete obedience, Abram eventually faced serious problems with his nephew to the point that they had to go their separate ways.

In Luke 5, we have the story of Peter and his wonderful encounter with Jesus. Peter granted Jesus the use of his boat to teach the multitudes. When Jesus finished teaching, He provided Peter some very clear instructions. "Push out into deep water and let your nets out for a catch," Jesus told him. Peter did not question Jesus. He did not obey half-heartedly either. Peter answered, "Master, we've been fishing hard all night and haven't caught even a minnow. But if you say so, I'll let out the nets." The reward did not take long to be acquired. They had such a huge catch of fish, that they had to call in their friends for help!

Today I've learned that it is better to obey God completely than half-heartedly. The consequences of obeying God partially are terrible. Abram lost his nephew's company because of this. If Peter hadn't followed Jesus' instructions completely, he would have missed out on the biggest miracle in his life! Let us stop obeying God half-heartedly. The consequences are terrible.

Don't Throw Jesus Out!

Today's reading is found in Luke 4:14-30. It tells the story of Jesus going to a synagogue in Nazareth on the Sabbath. He stood up and read from the scroll of the prophet Isaiah. The passage He chose was: "God's Spirit is on me; he's chosen me to preach the Message of good news to the poor, sent me to announce pardon to prisoners and recovery of sight to the blind, to set the burdened and battered free, to announce, 'This is God's year to act!'" When He finished reading, He told the people that the Scripture had been fulfilled right then and there. But to my amazement, the people got upset, they threw him out and banished him from their town!

Today I've learned that the story back then is quite similar to ours today. We used to allow prayer and Bible reading in schools. But somebody thought that Jesus did not belong there and so they threw Him out by banishing these actions. We used to allow the Ten Commandments to be posted on our courts and some other public buildings. But someone got upset and they sued our government who in turn decided to remove these important reminders of God's law. We threw Him out of our cities and towns!

Now we are appalled to see so much violence in schools. Children becoming seriously angry, picking up guns and killing others. We are surprised to see how crime has increased in our Country and how terribly unfair our government's judicial system has become. It seems as though money talks and determines how much justice a person gets. Still, we have to determine what it is that we will do with Jesus in our homes and in our lives. If we throw Him out, we will reap anger, bitterness, sadness, depression, loneliness, disappointment, violence, unrest, etc. We will never know what it is to be fully pardoned. We will never experience true freedom. We will always walk through life blind to His admirable light. Heed the consequences of those that threw Him out over 2,000 years ago. Don't throw Jesus out!

It Pays to Obey God

Genesis 6 starts by telling the story of God's sons marrying men's daughters. Some theologians believe that Seth's descendants represent God's sons while Cain's descendents represented men's daughters. Other theologians believe that fallen angels represented God's sons who married men's daughters. Out of this union came a new generation that became corrupt and extremely sinful to the point that God became tired of them and promised to destroy them. Yet, God's great patience and love for humankind is displayed by the fact that He chose Noah, a righteous man, to build an ark that would save his entire family and a pair of every animal.

Noah was a man who believed God and he obeyed every command exaclty as it had been communicated. Everything and everyone who was left outside of the ark perished. But God watched over Noah, his family and the animals inside the ark.

Today I've learned that humanity is not moving upward and improving. Rather, we are becoming worse with time. Yet, God has provided a way for salvation. Jesus is the refuge that will guard us from the coming destruction of this world. But we must enter into His rest by building a strong relationship with Him. We must believe in Him and obey Him exactly as He has requested. Remember Noah. This will help you understand that it really pays to obey God.

Man's Worst vs. God's Best

Today's reading was found in Genesis 3. How sad it is to read that man failed to obey God. Adam & Eve had to face the terrible consequences of disobeying Him: The earth was cursed which would cause Adam to work harder for his sustenance, Eve would endure harsher pain when delivering babies, and they were both thrown out of the Garden that had been prepared exclusively for them. But God did not end man's failure there. He promised redemption!

As I read Luke 2, I found God's perfect plan being unfurled. He had to send Jesus to save us! God Almighty became human. And though God offered us His best, we could not do the same for Him. No room was available for Him at the palace. Not even the inn had a vacancy to allow Him to enter our world. All we could give Him was a miserable manger. No celebrities came to visit Him. No governors or kings showed up to witness His coming. All we could offer was a bunch of simple shepherds watching their flocks. And they couldn't even bring any presents because they were poor!

Today I've learned that God is not impressed by our worst failures or disobedience. God is not concerned with our limitations and poverty. His goodness will shine brighter and stronger always. No matter what we deny Him, He will not stop giving us His best. But this is not reason for us to continue living in sin! It's time we reconsider His kindness and give Him all we have.

In The Beginning

It's interesting to note that the opening words of the very first book, chapter and verse of the Bible are, "First this: God..." (Genesis 1:1 - The Message). No doubt that if He did not exist, then nothing that we see today would exist either. But what really caught my attention was the powerful words, "It was evening, it was morning..." (Genesis 1:5 - The Message). God did not start with everything being bright and in good order. He created light and then He set everything up in its right place. And every time God made something great, those words are repeated.

Today, I have learned from these Scriptures that God is the start of everything good and perfect. Our lives may be in the depths of darkness and despair, but if we allow God to step in, He will bring forth something wonderful! God is not afraid of our worst because He can transform it into the best.

It's great to know that our beginning may not have been the best. But once God is allowed to enter our lives, He gives a fresh and new start.