my daily devotional note

I Still Believe

2010-10-07T08:48:00.000-06:00

Prayer Dogs (#365 of 365+)

2010-09-26T13:30:00.000-06:00

“Then Jesus asked them, ‘Which is lawful on the Sabbath: to do good or to do evil, to save life or to kill?’ But they remained silent. He looked around at them in anger and, deeply distressed at their stubborn hearts, said to the man, ‘Stretch out your hand.’ He stretched it out, and his hand was completely restored” (Mark 3:4-5)

Joni talked about the time when one of the staff members of a prayer center was uncomfortable with the presence of a visiting disabilities group. He didn’t agree with the fact that two blind people needed their guide dogs to remain with them, even as they sat in the prayer room. He said, “I’m concerned that having a dog in the room would grieve the Holy Spirit.” He tried, to no avail, to have those dogs removed.

In what ways do I focus on externals so much that I end up hurting a human soul in the process?

How have I been so absorbed with the letter of the law lately that I’ve neglected to love my neighbor as God intended?

“You keep meticulous account books, tithing on every nickel and dime you get, but on the meat of God’s Law, things like fairness and compassion and commitment—the absolute basics!—you carelessly take it or leave it. Careful bookkeeping is commendable, but the basics are required. Do you have any idea how silly you look, writing a life story that’s wrong from start to finish, nitpicking over commas and semicolons?” (Matthew 23:23-24 MSG)

Father God, thank you for speaking to me in countless ways over the past 365 days through your Word and through the teachings of Joni Eareckson Tada, my sister in Christ. I pray that you’ll richly bless Joni’s ministry and her marriage... Help me to faithfully live on the outside what I’ve learned on the inside. With your Holy Spirit’s help, I know that I can do all things. In the coming year, may I love mercy, fight injustice, and bring glory to your name… even if it means I won’t have much time to blog about it. Continually draw my family closer to you and to each other every single day. Protect us all as we go about our lives, doing your will. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Fruit Comes through Struggle (#364 of 365+)

2010-09-25T22:00:00.001-06:00

I’m posting this on Sunday, September 26, 2010—the day after I actually had this devotional. I just didn’t have enough time to blog about it yesterday. On Friday evening my husband picked me up from work. He found me sitting in my office with the lights turned off and tears streaming down my face. I had never experienced such a painful migraine… It felt as if my entire head was being stabbed at and that my skull was about to crack open because of the brain swelling... It was really bad.

After we got home I went directly upstairs. My husband brought me water and two Advil. I swallowed all of it, lay down on the bed, cradled my head, and prayed to God to give me relief. After about an hour of cringing and crying, I felt a cold sweat come over me and I passed out. I awoke an hour or two after that, finally headache-free. Thank the Lord...

I drank plenty of water that evening and slept in late on Saturday morning. When I finally got up, showered, and read my devotional, it was almost lunchtime. I helped my teen son complete his Chemistry worksheets and then fed him lunch. I proceeded to spend the majority of the afternoon driving him around town so he could take the photos he needed for a special Geometry assignment due on Monday. By the time he finished the Geometry scrapbook, date night had arrived! My husband treated us to sushi at our favorite place and then we got ice cream and came home. My son had vacuumed, dusted, and done a couple of other chores while we were out! He went to bed and my husband and I settled in to watch the original Buffy: The Vampire Slayer movie on Netflix. With our warm doggies snuggling close, I couldn’t help falling asleep on the couch within the first fifteen minutes of the movie. Oh well, I have a feeling I didn’t miss much!

“This is to my Father's glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples” (John 15:8)

Joni said her friend Tim is a master of growing rare grapes. He taught her that planting grape vines in good fertilized soil is actually counter-productive because it results in less fruit and more leaves. In order to get the kind of production he wants—more sweet grapes—he puts the vine under duress. When it has to struggle for every nutrient it can find, it won’t waste all that effort on growing leaves. It will direct the flow of nutrients to grow a bounty of beautiful grapes.

I think the Lord gave me this story about Tim’s grapevines so I could better understand what happened to me on Friday. I struggled and prayed so much because of my migraine that, when I was finally free of it, I felt more energy and “life” than I’ve felt in quite a while. Joni called it a “bruising of blessing” and said “you won’t bear a crop” without “trials and struggles, disappointments and setbacks.” It was quite a lesson to learn and it will stay with me for a very long time.

This is my second-to-last devotional in a year-long series. I’ll take my time writing and editing the last one but I’ll try to post it by the end of today.

Lord, thank you for answering my prayers and leading me in the way you want me to go. Your presence is my very breath of life. Amen.

Steering Sin (#363 of 365+)

2010-09-24T08:00:00.001-06:00

“The LORD works out everything for his own ends—even the wicked for a day of disaster” (Proverbs 16:4)

How great are the mind and the power of God! I don’t claim to understand
everything about him but I do know this: A person’s sinful intentions and the enemy’s evil schemes will never throw the Lord off his game. He won’t ever be taken aback or surprised by disastrous circumstances as we often are. Although he doesn’t promote sin or tempt anybody (James 1:13) he always knows what’s coming around the corner and he masterfully works it into his perfect plan to produce the results he desires.

The disciples were amazed when Jesus Christ calmed a raging storm at sea because they hadn’t yet grasped the identity of the man in their midst. Well, I think sometimes I’m guilty of making a similar mistake when—instead of being aware of God’s awesome presence—I’ll bring the Lord “down to my level” and talk to him like a buddy. But he deserves so much more than that from me. He’s sovereign over everything and nothing can ever threaten the momentum of his kingdom.

“How great are your works, O LORD, how profound your thoughts!” (Psalm 92:5)

“The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom” (Psalm 111:10)

“Start with GOD—the first step in learning is bowing down to GOD; only fools thumb their noses at such wisdom and learning” (Proverbs 1:7 MSG)

My Lord, I bow down low before you. You are God—there is none like you! Thank you for placing eternity in my heart... Help me to grasp the heights and the depths of your love… Give me wisdom and discernment. May I do your will today. Amen.

Mrs. Sherman’s Treasures (#362 of 365+)

2010-09-23T07:45:00.002-06:00

“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves
do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:19-21)

Joni’s friend, a ninety-one year old woman named Mrs. Sherman, gave up and gave away a lifetime of belongings when she and her chronically ill husband needed to move into an assisted living center. Their unit was a tiny place; there simply wasn’t enough room for all their furniture, pictures, knick-knacks, etc. It must have been so difficult for Mr. and Mrs. Sherman to sell their beloved farm and make only a few selections from all their earthly possessions that held over half a century of memories. But Mrs. Sherman said she knew the time had arrived to move on and one day it would be time for them to move on again to another stage of life—when they would leave everything behind to finally meet God face to face.

Somehow we Americans tend to allow our possessions—those items we possess—to “possess” us. We’re obsessed with ownership. The desire to acquire overwhelms us to the point of exhaustion. As we dig ourselves deeper and deeper into debt, we stack those worthless Jenga blocks (material goods) as high as we can for all to see. History teaches us that after enough time passes everything eventually topples over. All we’ll have left is a life in ruins... unless we planned for eternity.

I know that sounds a little negative, but it’s only in light of the truth that there isn’t anything that could possibly compare to the exquisite beauty and eternal worth of knowing my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Every day of my life I want to make sure I release whatever thing is preventing me from getting a firm grip with both hands (so to speak) on the abundant life that God meant for me to live and to enjoy. Absolutely nothing else is worth a second thought.

“GOD is magnificent; he can never be praised enough. There are no boundaries to his greatness” (Psalm 145:3 MSG)

Lord Jesus, help me not to be tethered in any way to this world. Even when my life is full of blessings and belongings may my anchor be set deeply in you alone. You are my life. You are my treasure of exceeding worth. Thank you for being gracious to me, a sinner, and going after me as if I was a pearl of great price. Thank you for seeking me out as if I was your lost coin or your lost lamb. Thank you for not giving up on me. You brought me safely into your kingdom and I’ll never be able to praise you enough for it. Amen.

Prone to Wander (#361 of 365+)

2010-09-22T08:00:00.001-06:00

This is a beautiful verse from Come Thy Fount:

Oh, to grace how great a debtor,
daily I’m constrained to be!

Let Thy goodness, like a fetter,
bind my wandering heart to Thee.
Prone to wander, Lord, I feel it,
prone to leave the God I love;
here’s my heart, oh, take and seal it,
seal it for Thy courts above!

Like the composer of that hymn, I confess I’m also “prone to wander.” My thoughts and feelings are often thousands of miles away from the things of God. And, although the Holy Spirit will never leave me, I don’t always acknowledge or notice his presence. How awful is that?

But, thank the Lord, he doesn’t condemn us when we fall short of perfection. Before any of us were born—even before Jesus Christ could die for the world’s sin—God’s had tender thoughts towards his people or those who would become his:

“But the more I called Israel, the further they went from me. They sacrificed to the Baals and they burned incense to images. It was I who taught Ephraim to walk, taking them by the arms; but they did not realize it was I who healed them. I led them with cords of human kindness, with ties of love; I lifted the yoke from their neck and bent down to feed them” (Hosea 11:2-4)

Father God, thank you for giving me freedom through Jesus Christ. May I never take it for granted. Thank you for your life-giving Spirit and for granting every breath I breathe. Thank you for your constant presence and the counsel of your Word. I don’t want to waste any of your gifts with the pursuit of lesser things. You’re gracious and tenderhearted; teach me to be more like you. You’re holy and wise; lead me in the direction I should go. Use me to spread the good news of your kingdom. Amen.

A Different Kind of Leprosy (#360 of 365+)

2010-09-21T07:30:00.002-06:00

“A man with leprosy came and knelt before him and said, ‘Lord, if you are willing, you can make me clean.’ Jesus reached out his hand and touched the man. ‘I am willing,’ he said. ‘Be clean!’ Immediately he was cured of his
leprosy” (Matthew 8:2-3)

Leprosy has been around for over 4,000 years. It is now called Hansen’s Disease, named after a physician who discovered the bacteria which causes leprosy. Mycobacterium leprae is a slow-growing parasite that debilitates the nervous system. Some victims could become paralyzed but most of them simply lose all sensation in their nerve endings.

If there’s anything we’ve learned from the disfigurement of lepers, it’s that the ability to feel is taken for granted. Our nerves and our skin (packed with nerve endings) help us to avoid injuries which cause infections or lead to amputation. Pain lets us know something is terribly wrong, so we’ll check ourselves or get medical attention.

Joni said there’s another kind of leprosy—a “spiritual leprosy”—that I must avoid at all costs. If I allow sin to thrive in the hidden corners of my life, I’ll become numb to the things of God. If I’m deceived into believing no one will be harmed by my secret sin, I’ll continue growing more insensitive every day. Eventually the truth will come out, as it always does, and the bloody carnage will be everywhere.

“When I want to do good, evil is right there with me… What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body of death? Thanks be to God—through Jesus Christ our Lord!” (Romans 7:21, 24-25)

Last night there was a grocery store shooting on a nearby military installation. The incident is still being investigated by the FBI so the complete story probably won’t be revealed in the news anytime soon. However, I’m certain the man with the gun must have harbored anger or hate for quite a while. Whatever his ultimate intentions were—to steal or to kill—his actions were the byproduct of thoughts that had been stewing in his mind. The emotions behind the most surprising, explosive, and deadly acts of all always seem to need time to build… until they boil over. I’ll bet the perpetrator, if he’s still alive, appears unrepentant and unfeeling. A spiritual leper, if you will…

We’re all susceptible to spiritual leprosy. The writer of Hebrews wrote the following warning to Christians, people who claimed to believe in Christ:

“See to it, brothers, that none of you has a sinful, unbelieving heart that turns away from the living God. But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called Today, so that none of you may be hardened by sin's deceitfulness” (Hebrews 3:12-13)

Lord, forgive my tough façade, my stubborn will, my hardness of heart. Holy Spirit, be the source of my strength. Be the power I need to resist sin, even fleeing the scene if necessary. Protect my heart and keep me sensitive to your Word and to your will. Even if it means I’ll break down into tears too often! Thank you for always being full of grace. Teach me to be more like you. Amen.

The Correct Path (#359 of 365+)

2010-09-20T07:55:00.001-06:00

“Direct me in the path of your commands, for there I find delight” (Psalm 119:35)

The small town paramedics took the unconscious three-year-old boy and
instructed his parents to follow the ambulance to the cemetery. The child’s parents were so confused! Why were they headed to the cemetery, of all places? What was going on? Had they heard correctly?

It finally made sense when they saw the medical helicopter. The cemetery was the only place for miles around that had a clearing for the helicopter to land. Their little boy was flown to a hospital in a nearby city where he received the expert medical attention he needed.

Joni said, when the way seems “dark and indiscernible” we tend to let our emotions lead us instead of having “confidence in God.” But when we follow his instructions “we not only find life, but delight.”

Lord, may I not let feelings rule over my actions, especially when you’ve already given clear instructions on what to do. May I not question or doubt, but only follow the path you’ve laid before me. Give me strength and clarity, and use me to somehow bring glory to your name today. Amen.

Rescued through the Flames (#358 of 365+)

2010-09-19T13:55:00.001-06:00

“God, for whom and through whom everything was made, chose to bring many children into glory. And it was only right that he should make Jesus, through his suffering, a perfect leader, fit to bring them into their salvation”
(Hebrews 2:10 NLT)

Joni still remembers the injured fireman she tried to witness to when she herself was new to being a quadriplegic and very young in the faith. Both of the fireman’s hands had been amputated because of severe burns. He would no longer be able to do the job that had been a source of income and very satisfying work: Rescuing people from the flames. He was a very bitter man.

Then he learned that God himself “became flesh and made his dwelling among us” (John 1:14). He found out that Jesus Christ willingly yielded to the severest forms of physical brutality the Romans could think of—stretched out his arms for those nails to be hammered into his wrists—and died to save us from the flames of Hell. He was floored by the fact the Lord had endured such personal pain to save his soul from death and destruction. It made all the difference in the world that he could relate to the Lord’s heart and the Lord could relate to his pain.

Instead of thinking only of his debilitating injury, the fireman began to see how the Lord had allowed an awful experience to happen to him for the good of many others. Not only did it lead him to a place where he was finally ready to accept God’s gift of salvation, but it put him in a position to serve a greater purpose than he ever had before: Rescuing souls from the flames of Hell by telling them what Jesus Christ accomplished for us on the cross.

Lord, thank you for today’s message. Spirit, help me to understand the needs of people’s hearts and souls when I tell them about the gospel. Amen.

There’s Always a Way (#357 of 365+)

2010-09-18T14:19:00.001-06:00

“For Christ's love compels us” (2 Corinthians 5:14)

Joni said, “There is always a way—a creative, sincere way—to share the love of Christ.” The first step should be prayer, by asking the Holy Spirit to
inspire me and to use me. Even if I don’t like this city very much I realize the Lord has arranged for my family to be here, in this neighborhood, for a unique purpose. He has his reasons for giving me these spiritual gift(s) and allowing me to develop a specific skill set. As God works his will throughout the world today, his Church has the high calling of demonstrating the love of Christ to everyone it touches. Even though Christians are sometimes called to reach outside their own individual circles, God usually places someone near us on purpose. We just have to open our eyes and look around…

Who might be the next person whose life is changed forever because God’s love showed through my words or actions? Could it be the neighbor who asked my family to watch her dog for a couple of days? A child who receives an Operation Christmas Child gift shoebox that I helped to provide? The lady at work who seeks out my advice?

Lord, who I am and where I am is not an accident. You have a plan to work out everything according to your purposes. Thank you for giving me the privilege to be a part of it all. Use me, Lord. May your love in me splash over onto someone else’s life today and every day. Amen.

Somebody’s Watching (#356 of 365+)

2010-09-17T07:56:00.007-06:00

“His intent was that now, through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms” (Ephesians 3:10)

I think the phrase “heavenly realms” appears a total of five times in the New Testament and they’re all in Paul’s letter to the Ephesians. He must have felt an incredible need to emphasize both the reality and the significance of the unseen spiritual world that surrounds us. It’s probably because we Christians tend to continue living a boring, habitual two-dimensional life when God meant for it to be a deeply satisfying, High-Def 3D experience! That’s why he gave us his Holy Spirit, so we wouldn’t have to wait for Heaven. Eternal life can start right now.

I’m still trying to wrap my mind around this reality: I’m actually, right now, at this very moment… living in this world and in the next one… at the same time. Paul said “in the heavenly realms” believers have already been “seated” with Christ (Ephesians 2:6) and we have already received “every spiritual blessing” that will ever be received (Ephesians 1:3). No matter what’s going on in this physical realm today at work or at home, in my country or across the globe—I’m personal friends with the Who’s Who of the universe and I’m sitting next to him at a banquet that’s being held in his honor. I’m incredibly rich beyond compare!

In Ephesians 3:10, Paul was speaking from the viewpoint of angels and demons he called “rulers and authorities.” When a person comes alive because of salvation through Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit, God puts his “manifold wisdom” on full display and those same spirit beings react as though a soul has just been:

ushered into the throne room of God (Isaiah 6:1)
seated at the marriage supper of the Lamb (Revelation 19:9)
crowned ceremoniously (James 1:12, Revelation 2:10)

The presence of God’s Spirit in me makes angels rejoice and demons shudder. As a Christian if I walk by eyesight alone I can’t be surprised when the the enemy succeeds in distracting me with yesterday’s pain and today’s problems. But the more I walk in the Spirit and in the Word of God, the more the invisible reality that I described previously starts to unfold before my very eyes. It’s like waking up to a healthy perspective of the future called living by faith. I wonder: When will the truth sink in deep enough so I stop falling for lies and start living every moment as though I believe the Lord?

“There is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents” (Luke 15:10)

“For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms” (Ephesians 6:12)

Father God, no matter who is watching me today I thank you that you are ever watchful of my soul. As Zephaniah wrote: You’re with me, You’re mighty to save, You take great delight in me, You quiet me with your love, and You rejoice over me with your song. It really blows my mind how you love me more than a parent could love his or her newborn baby! Draw me ever closer to your loving heart. May I help usher someone else into your throne room soon. Amen.

No Accident! (#355 of 365+)

2010-09-16T07:40:00.001-06:00

Ahab was an evil king, more evil than all the previous kings had been. His wife, Jezebel, was a very bad influence on him. He learned to worship and serve Baal instead of the Lord God of Israel (1 Kings 16). When Ahab
couldn’t acquire a vineyard, Jezebel arranged for the owner to be stoned to death so the king could get what he wanted (1 Kings 21).

“The LORD has decreed disaster for you” (1 Kings 22:23)

The prophet Micaiah was imprisoned for saying those words to the king of Israel. Ahab was concerned at first but thought he was clever enough to escape the Lord’s intentions. When it was time to go into battle, someone else wore the kingly robes and Ahab dressed like a commoner. But the prophecy came true. Disaster struck exactly where he stood.

“But someone drew his bow at random and hit the king of Israel between the sections of his armor. The king told the chariot driver, ‘Wheel around and get me out of the fighting. I've been wounded.’ All day long the battle raged, and the king of Israel propped himself up in his chariot facing the Arameans until evening. Then at sunset he died” (2 Chronicles 18:33-34)

Once again I’m reminded how God is sovereign over every event in my life, both good and bad. If he could accomplish his perfect and divine will by using an enemy archer who aimed an arrow “at random,” then he will definitely have his way in my life as well. Whatever happens, I’ll still believe in his infinite love because of what Jesus Christ did. And when I don’t get what I want—even when I really, really want it—I’ll know it means the Lord must have something much better planned for me.

Lord, may your will—not mine—be done. I don’t always feel that way but I know with your Spirit’s help my heart will change. May I learn to be obedient and content so I won’t ever have to look back on this life with regret. Thank you for having the best of intentions for me and my family. I trust you completely and know you will accomplish your purposes—with or without my cooperation. May I see signs of your kingdom all around me, and may your indescribable joy in me spill over and touch someone else’s life today. Amen.

A Little Girl’s Gift (#354 of 365+)

2010-09-15T07:55:00.002-06:00

“A gift opens the way for the giver and ushers him into the presence of the great” (Proverbs 18:16)

What I learned from today’s devotional was that I shouldn’t reject someone’s
generosity or kindness because I’m not in need of anyone’s charity. If I only humble myself and graciously accept the gift from a sincere heart… it could open the door to a conversation about the Lord.

Jesus Christ once said something I try to tell myself every day: “He must become greater; I must become less” (John 3:30). Since we’re now in football season, I think it is only fitting to quote another translation of the same verse…

“This is the assigned moment for him to move into the center, while I slip off to the sidelines” (John 3:30 MSG)

Lord, help me! Decrease my inflated sense of self today and help me to see that it’s really all about you. Amen.

Jake's Story (#353 of 365+)

2010-09-14T07:40:00.001-06:00

“Many are the plans in a man’s heart, but it is the LORD’s purpose that prevails” (Proverbs 19:21)

It was definitely a miracle from God.

Joni told the story about how her team was in Poland and they almost ran out of wheelchairs to give away when a father carried in his five-year-old handicapped son on his back. Luckily there was one child-size wheelchair left. She said the wheelchair was unusual from the start because it was “highly customized” but it fit the boy perfectly as if it was specifically designed for him. In addition, someone had inexplicably stitched the name “Jake” across the backing. It didn’t make sense until the interpreters asked the parents what the boy’s name was. Imagine everyone’s surprise when the name on the wheelchair matched the name of the boy! His name was Jakob! The Lord must have meant for that wheelchair to go to little Jake all along…

Scores of people accepted Jesus Christ as their savior that day.

Lord, your plans are so much better than my own. When things don’t go my way, remind me of that so my disappointment doesn’t become a stumbling block. I’m sorry for not being more grateful. Thank you for always being so good to me. Amen.

Least in the Kingdom (#352 of 365+)

2010-09-13T07:54:00.002-06:00

“Anyone who breaks one of the least of these commandments and teaches others to do the same will be called least in the kingdom of heaven, but whoever practices and teaches these commands will be called great in the
kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:19)

Just because I know the blood of Jesus covers sin doesn’t mean I now have a free ticket to do whatever I want. Joni cited an example of a friend who planned to leave his wife. He said they had grown apart and, now that their kids were all grown, their divorce wouldn’t hurt anyone. Besides, he said, “God will forgive me.”

But God says he hates divorce… God hates stealing, lying… He hates all sin. Why would someone who claimed to know and love the Lord try to do something so polar opposite to his nature?

Because he’s a sinful, selfish human being. We’re all that way at the core, even after we’re saved! Once we’ve managed to convince ourselves that breaking one “little” law of God is okay because “it won’t hurt anyone” it doesn’t take very long before we break a few others. Before I know it, I’ve veered way off course from God’s best and I’ve probably ruined my testimony as well.

Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary on the Bible says about today’s passage: “What is between God and our souls, must be kept to ourselves; but that which is of itself open to the sight of men, we must study to make suitable to our profession, and praiseworthy. We must aim at the glory of God.”

Lord Jesus, thank you for setting the example of a life of grace and love. Help me to be more like you. May I not do only what I want or feel like doing but to always submit and do what’s right in your eyes. I know that’s a tall order for someone like me but you deserve nothing less than the best. With your Holy Spirit I know I can do all things. Amen.

Speak Up (#351 of 365+)

2010-09-12T09:51:00.001-06:00

“I looked for a man among them who would build up the wall and stand before me in the gap on behalf of the land so I would not have to destroy it, but I found none” (Ezekiel 22:30)

The following is the plot summary for Hotel Rwanda at IMDb.com:

Ten years ago some of the worst atrocities in the history of mankind took place in the country of Rwanda--and in an era of high-speed communication and round the clock news, the events went almost unnoticed by the rest of the world. In only three months, one million people were brutally murdered. In the face of these unspeakable actions, inspired by his love for his family, an ordinary man summons extraordinary courage to save the lives of over a thousand helpless refugees, by granting them shelter in the hotel he manages.

The further emphasize the amount of evil that happened in Rwanda in 1994, Joni said the genocide of Tutsis happened at “three times the speed of Hitler’s extermination of the Jews and Gypsies.” To make her point hit home with those of us who live fairly comfortable lives in the U.S., she said “it was the equivalent of more than two World Trade Center slaughters every single day for a hundred straight days.”

“All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is that good men do nothing.” ~Edmund Burke

Lord, no one has paid more costly a price to fight evil than you did. Help me to be more like you and stand in the gap for someone else who doesn’t have the voice to speak up for themselves. May I never remain silent or stand by and do nothing. Amen.

Terror Tactics (#350 of 365+)

2010-09-11T11:59:00.001-06:00

“In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one” (Ephesians 6:16)

Today is September 11, Patriot Day, when we solemnly remember the
day when close to 3,000 human souls perished. There may be plenty more terrorists in the world like the 9/11 hijackers who would love to bring America the Beautiful to her knees but, as Joni pointed out, those people don’t have the courage to go “toe-to-toe” with our soldiers. We’ll never see terrorists plan a surprise military attack on American soil like the Japanese executed at Pearl Harbor. No, terrorists use dirty tactics like taking hostages or blowing up women and children. They make a big production out of killing in that way in order to strike terror into our hearts. They want their religion and their god to be feared and revered above all else. It’s very similar to what our Enemy does…

Satan robs us of joy when he tricks us into feelings of sorrow or shame; he rips away faith when he introduces doubtful or fearful thoughts into our minds. He knows he could never go “toe-to-toe” against the Lord God Almighty so he’ll toss little flaming darts at God’s beloved children. The only way he can hurt God is by hurting one of us. If he can get one of us to stumble or falter then maybe, just maybe, he can spoil God’s plans. Or so he thinks…

Lord, I pray that today on September 11 you’ll protect the minds and heart of Americans against terrorism—both foreign and domestic. I pray that you’ll also protect believers’ hearts and minds against the schemes of the devil. Thank you for the shield of faith, the sword of your Spirit, and the weapon of your Word. Help us to stand strong remembering every day the ultimate victory is already yours. And bring the United States of America back to the faith she once had... Amen.

Casey Reds (#349 of 365+)

2010-09-10T07:39:00.001-06:00

“Do not be like the horse or the mule, which have no understanding but must be controlled by bit and bridle” (Psalm 32:9)

Casey Reds was a beautiful quarter horse that belonged to Joni’s sister. He
was badly mistreated when he was young so Kathy needed to put blinders on him whenever she rode him. Joni still remembers the sadness in his eyes… I have a lot in common with that horse because I had a few tough experiences during my childhood but I’m so different because I’m not a simple creature—I’m a human being created in God’s image that he has re-created by clothing me in Christ, and filling with his Spirit. I don’t have to be like Casey Reds. I can choose not to give up. I can choose not to live in sadness for the rest of my days. I must not give up and live in sadness no matter what because that would dishonor the One who went to great lengths to make all things possible for me.

“Put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness” (Ephesians 4:24)

“If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come” (2 Corinthians 5:17)

“For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline” (2 Timothy 1:7)

The Lord wants everyone to fully grasp the generous grace he’s shown us through Jesus Christ. Our salvation is an all-inclusive package that contains peace, contentment, hope, joy, and healing. If any part of my life can’t be characterized as containing “peace, contentment, hope, joy, or healing”—and there are a few now that I think of it—then it’s time to do some deep soul-searching. I should find out why I’ve kept them hidden away from God and I need to ask him to fill and heal every area of my life.

“[Turn] your ear to wisdom and [apply] your heart to understanding, and if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding, and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure, then you will understand the fear of the LORD and find the knowledge of God” (Proverbs 2:2-5)

Lord, you know what I’m going to say before the words are on my lips but today I struggle to find the words. But you already know… You know why I was anxious and couldn’t sleep well. You heard my groanings and you understood my mumbled prayers when I pleaded with you from a semi-dream state. I pray that you will answer soon so I may find the peace I’m searching for. May your will be done. Amen.

Facts of Life… and of Death (#348 of 365+)

2010-09-09T07:56:00.001-06:00

“For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 6:23)

The Lord has placed a heavy burden on my heart today. I’m thinking of a
young lady I know who doesn’t believe in Jesus. Even though I like her very much, she’s confided in me, and we’ve had a few laughs… her soul is lost. There’s nothing but doom waiting for her at the end of her life if she continues down the path of unbelief. The fact that she’s young doesn’t make me feel any better. I don’t want to get lulled into a false sense of security because I think she has plenty of time to accept Christ—or that I have plenty of time to personally share and explain the gospel with her. There are no guarantees about this life except what Joni said: “We are all heading for the grave, some of us sooner than others.”

Lord, I feel a sense of urgency I can’t ignore. By your Spirit’s power and with your words help me to communicate your love to lost souls. Prepare hearts to receive the gospel. Amen.

Battle Plan (#347 of 365+)

2010-09-08T07:42:00.003-06:00

“Though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. We demolish arguments
and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ” (2 Corinthians 10:3-5)

Today, Joni reminds us how Jesus “defeated” all our enemies by using tactics the world considers “inferior.” Instead of what our military calls a show of force by calling 10,000 powerful angels to rescue him, the Son of God became subservient. He submitted himself to the point of death. I heard someone on the radio last night exclaim that Jesus did the unexpected—the unimaginable!—by taking the finality of a sealed tomb and turning it into an open door of salvation.

The anniversary of 9/11 is this weekend. I can still remember the shock as I watched those towers crumble. To this day there is still a big aching hole in the ground where the World Trade Center used to stand. There is absolutely no good excuse for not rebuilding it by now. It’s been almost a decade! However, one day those towers will be rebuilt and in the distant future 9/11 will be just another footnote in history. But the resurrection in Jerusalem over 2,000 years ago will continue to reverberate and resonate in human hearts around the globe until the return of Jesus Christ! No enemy will ever out-surprise or out-do that enormous victory.

Although the war was won on that day the battles won’t stop until the very end. The enemy is desperate and bitter, and the Lord still manages to shock and awe them at every turn. As Joni pointed out, his new surprise tactic is to brandish “a most unlikely weapon”… ME! She said, “It’s the One who wields us that makes all the difference.”

We have the “divine power to demolish strongholds” (2 Corinthians 10:4).

I submit to you, Lord. Equip me, prepare me, and use me. I’m a tool in your capable hands. May I somehow bring glory to your name today. Amen.

The Defeat of Disease and Death (#346 of 365+)

2010-09-07T07:55:00.003-06:00

“When evening came, many who were demon-possessed were brought to him, and he drove out the spirits with a word and healed all the sick. This was to fulfill what was spoken through the prophet Isaiah: ‘He took up our
infirmities and carried our diseases’” (Matthew 8:16-17)

“Death is a part of living.” “We’re dedicated to finding a cure.” I’ve heard statements like those above from the media and from people around me all my life. It seems that someone is always attempting to smooth over the ugly facts or offer some semblance of hope without including any mention of Jesus Christ. Christians shouldn’t follow the same word tracks as people who are confused or lost. “Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone” (Colossians 4:6)

I attended my first funeral when I was only five years old. It was for a little girl who was my age. She had fallen out of the back of a moving pickup truck and had broken her neck. They did a marvelous job with the make-up because she appeared to be sleeping peacefully in that open casket. But it didn’t change the fact that she was dead as a doorknob. Her angelic beauty only magnified her mother’s bitter grief over “what could have been.” That day I learned the body is only a shell of the real person. One day mine will also succumb to death, and quite possibly disease as well, but it’s going to be okay. My soul will be safe at home in God’s hands. In the meanwhile, I’ll try to stave off the inevitable to the best of my ability through healthy lifestyle choices.

Joni reminds her readers today that life was never meant to be about searching for a fountain of youth, cheating death, surviving and curing cancer, etc. God’s creation was a living and thriving world. What happened? Death and disease entered in when Man chose to sin against God.

“But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed” (Isaiah 53:5)

Jesus paid a costly price for the world to be rid of sin, disease, and decay... and to be re-made a new creation! Although it isn’t time for the big reveal yet, many people believe the signs hint that the day will be very, very soon…

“We ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies. For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what he already has?” (Romans 8:23-24)

Lord, you placed your Spirit in me as a deposit, a promise, of the future Day of Redemption. I’m so thankful that you know me well and that you care about my needs. Thank you for providing me with everything I need to live this life to the fullest. Help me to do exactly that. May I fulfill the purpose you have for me. Amen.

My Own Baggage (#345 of 365+)

2010-09-06T21:10:00.004-06:00

“When they measure themselves by one another and compare themselves with one another, they are without understanding” (2 Corinthians 10:12 ESV)

Joni talked about how silly it is to envy someone else’s life only because it
looks better. She said it’s like waiting at the airport luggage carousel and being tempted to take someone else’s fancy new designer luggage instead of my own beat-up suitcase.

I don’t know what challenges lay beneath the exterior of another person’s perfect-looking life. And, even if I don’t always recognize this fact, the “baggage” I have is perfect for me. The Lord has carefully packed my journey with everything it needs to fulfill a unique purpose. He has placed every ability, weakness, accomplishment, disappointment, and person in it for a good reason. My baggage—my life summed up in one little word—is of exceedingly great worth to God. I should own it and treat it as though I believe that with all my heart.

“I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received” (Ephesians 4:1)

Lord, help me to keep my eyes on you and not compare myself to others. Thank you for graciously providing for my family’s needs. You’ve given us blessings and resources that we tend to overlook. May I be aware of every opportunity you put in front of me this week. Help me by your Spirit to be faithful to you and respond in a manner “worthy” of your great love. Amen.

Rubbish (#344 of 365+)

2010-09-05T12:43:00.003-06:00

“If anyone else thinks he has reasons to put confidence in the flesh, I have more: circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; in regard to the law, a Pharisee; as for
zeal, persecuting the church; as for legalistic righteousness, faultless. But whatever was to my profit I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ” (Philippians 3:4-8)

Today Joni asked, “How highly do you value your appearance, background, abilities, and achievements?” Self-assurance tends to take the place of dependence upon God. Instead of worshipping him in spirit and in truth (John 4:23) we’re simply a cardboard cutout of ourselves when we’re in church. Our hearts and are really focused on ourselves and elsewhere instead of submitting to the Holy Spirit’s work.

The apostle Paul defined those who were “the circumcision” (true believers) as people “who worship by the Spirit of God, who glory in Christ Jesus, and who put no confidence in the flesh” (Philippians 3:3)

Lord, your glorious presence is everything I need. Even when I think my ability, knowledge, and experience is enough to get me through—or even when I trust in my husband's ability, knowledge, and experience—help me to always look to your counsel, power, and presence for the assurance I need. Clean out the “rubbish” in my heart and mind. Teach me how to be a true worshipper. Do your will in my life. Amen.

John 3:16 (#343 of 365+)

2010-09-04T18:44:00.001-06:00

“For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life” (John 3:16 NASB)

This is one of the first Bible verses I ever memorized. I memorized it in the New American Standard version but, in any version, it does a great job of presenting the gospel with very few words.

Today I’ll just focus on the word whoever. That means everyone is in the same predicament and has been given the same opportunity to receive the greatest blessing of all: in Joni’s own words, “eternal fellowship with God.” And the best thing about it is that eternity starts right now in this life!

The gospel is an open invitation from the Lord to all human beings no matter what spiritual disfigurements we feel will prevent him from accepting us into his kingdom. When we feel most unworthy is when we truly understand our hopeless condition and value of his extravagant gift...

“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven… Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled” (Matthew 5:3, 6)

“But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8)

However, some Christians fall into a trap after our salvation experience when we flog ourselves for being less than perfect. When we allow disappointment, guilt, or shame to take over our thoughts instead of resting in the knowledge that God accepts us—warts and all—it can rob us of so many blessings our Lord wants to give us.

“If God didn't hesitate to put everything on the line for us, embracing our condition and exposing himself to the worst by sending his own Son, is there anything else he wouldn't gladly and freely do for us?” (Romans 8:32 MSG)

Lord, you opened wide the door of salvation so “whoever” would be welcome. Thank you for giving up everything to save me, among countless other lost souls. Thank you for your Spirit... Fill my heart so full of your love that it spills over into generous deeds. May I touch someone’s heart for you in a purely unpremeditated, Spirit-led way today. Amen.

Believe It! (#342 of 365+)

2010-09-03T07:59:00.001-06:00

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16)

Joni talked about Chuck, a developmentally delayed young man who was
born with Down syndrome. One Sunday he and his friends made a presentation for disability awareness at a church that wasn’t familiar to them. After he recited John 3:16 from the stage, he received laughter and applause. But he wasn’t there to entertain them; he was serious about God’s word and wanted to communicate it to this sanctuary filled with souls. In frustration he said, “Don’t laugh, I mean it. I really believe it!”

His reaction to their lighthearted attitude must have surprised them, and maybe even offended some members, because Joni said, “His defense of the gospel gave pause to the congregation.”

“Brothers, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth. But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. He chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, so that no one may boast before him. It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption” (1 Corinthians 1:26-30)

Lord, you are my “righteousness, holiness and redemption.” Your infinite qualities are beyond my ability to express with words. A single thought in your mind is beyond my ability to comprehend. But I can say this: I know I’d be nothing and going nowhere without you. Thank you for your amazing grace, for the presence of your Holy Spirit, and for being my everything. Help me to defend the gospel and live in a way that will bring glory and honor to you. Amen.