Agape Love - True That

Do you ever wish people would just "say it"? I can't tell you how often it happens among Christians that we don't want to hurt feelings or cause conflict, so rather than going to someone who can actually fix the problem, we complain to people who have absolutely no power to do anything about it, or won't. This could be anything from someone who had surgery/health issues that the church didn't know about, or something was broken or not working correctly for months and no one said anything to anyone who could possibly fix it. It's a frustrating cycle. Because the longer we let it sulk, the more aggressive it comes out when someone finally does say something, and the ironic thing is that a lot of people know before anyone who it mattered to most or the people who needed to know, leaving the people who needed to know in a place of looking horrible to all of those people. Even when we think we're doing someone a favor in not telling them, we're actually hurting them through either keeping it from them, or assuming they already know, and making them look bad, and that is exactly why we need to rejoice in truth!

Jesus had to speak hard truths all the time. He didn't hold back, but He only spoke in love, never to hurt. We can see the rich young ruler as an example in Mark 10. He came to Jesus, asking what else he needed to do to enter the kingdom of heaven, and Jesus shot him straight. "Sell your possessions to the poor." While this was a harsh truth for the man, after all he knew all the commandments and was very savvy in scripture, Jesus told him exactly where his heart was, and even though it seemed to hurt the man, he had some hard truths to weigh out. If Jesus didn't care about him, and simply wanted to spare the man's feelings, I'm sure He would have said, "great! You know the commandments and your scripture, so great job!" and left it there, knowing that the man wasn't quite there still. But the man wouldn't have known it.

It's a lot like when you've been wandering around with lunch stuck in your teeth all day, and no one tells you it's there, until someone in the store, right before dinner points it out for you. You have to stop and think "why didn't all of those people I know well not say a thing?!" You feel dumb and even a little angry. Why don't we tell people though? Because it's awkward? Because we don't want them to feel dumb?

If you want to grow, you need to receive harsh truths sometimes. One thing my boss (also my pastor) says to me all the time, as a girl with sensitivity issues, is to ask "what if it is true?" If it is, what can I do about it, and if it's not so much true, I move on without feeling too shaken up about it. But I have to stop and assess myself based on that possible truth from that person. Why are they feeling that way? Is it something I need to change or is it something they are just venting? Prime your heart to hear hard truths, but know that you need to consider where they're coming from for a moment before you get bent out of shape by them.

We are told that agape "rejoices" with truth as one of its characteristics. This seems kind of awkward, but as we discussed yesterday, that it doesn't delight in evil, we have to see the correlation between theses phrases. There are obvious differences here that tie into the initial story of this post. Delighting in evil says "did you know that so n' so doesn't care about so n' so, because nothing has been done!" and the delight comes it when it's nothing  more than juicy gossip. However, if you're talking to "so n' so" about what can we do for "so n' so" because they know people or connections or ways of helping, you're suddenly crossing into rejoicing with truth as you have made it clear to the people that need to know.

I view this much like the James 1:2-3's words about "considering it pure joy when trials come, for it is the testing of your faith, producing perseverance." No one wants to go through hard times. They frankly aren't fun. No one wants to hear hard truths, but those too will grow your faith if the truth is out of love, not spite. Let's help each other. We all have blinders and ways we need to grow. I'm not saying go slap someone with everything they do wrong or can't see in one swoop. You need passport into someone's life before you can do that, but know how to give and receive hard truths with people in your tight circles.

Scripture to Read:
Mark 10:17-22, Ephesians 4:15

Questions to Ponder:
What is a hard truth you have had to consider before? How did you react?
How do we share truth in love? Why is it important to have a relationship with a person before giving them the truth in love?
How do hard truths refine your faith?

Agape Love - Self(-Seeking) Destruct

The hardest parts of working on a team is people. I've been a part of so many teams, committees, ministries, crews, groups, etc. and I have learned many things about how it's going to go just by looking at the people around me and how receptive they are to new ideas. I've also learned how it's going to go by how receptive I am to new ideas. I've been a part of teams that thrive and move in powerful ways because every person on the team knew how to set aside something they found valuable for the greater good of the mission/project. I've also been in groups that were just painful because no one listened to anything except their own words and ideas and the group went absolutely nowhere, and was frankly a train wreck that looked horrible once rubber met the road. The success or failure of these two types of groups stemmed from the next characteristic of agape love, which is "love...is not self-seeking". 

Not only does this character trait of agape affect teams, but it affects your life and your relationships on a very personal level. From social media rants to your marriage, selfishness is a poison that needs to be kept in check. There are many things we need to remember as we approach working with other people, whether we are face to face with them, through screens, or on teams so that the relationships can thrive best. As we look deeper at this concept of love not being self-seeking, we'll discover that many of the other traits we've talked about will come into play, as they all work together to form the perfect love of agape. 

One way we need to keep self-seeking in check is by setting aside our own opinions, ideas, traditions, etc. so that we can allow those who aren't from your world to see more clearly. It seems counter-intuitive. After all, why would you not share those things to help them understand more clearly. But we need to remember that good things, while truth-filled, can actually end up being stumbling blocks for those new to the whole idea of faith or the idea of whatever group/team you're apart of. We tend to blast people who aren't in tune with Christian customs or the ways of the group, and that causes much more damage than you could ever imagine.

Parts of Romans 14 says,
"Accept the one whose faith is weak, without quarreling over disputable matters...for God has accepted them. Who are you to judge someone else's servant? To their own master, servants stand or fall. And they will stand, for the Lord is able to make them stand...For none of us lives for ourselves alone, and none of us doe for ourselves alone. If we live, we live for the Lord; and if we die, we die for the Lord...You, then, why do you judge your brother or sister? Why do you treat them with contempt? For we will all stand before God's judgement seat...Therefore let us stop passing judgement on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in the way of a brother or sister...For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit, because anyone who serves Christ in this way is pleasing to God and receives human approval. Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification. Do not destroy the work of God for the sake of food...So whatever you believe about these things keep between yourself and God."

Next, remember to ask God for His opinion. I think we spend a lot of time planning, formulating ideas and thoughts and opinions, and while they "sound" good or seem right, we don't actually always stop and ask God to tell us His thoughts in that moment. We may look up a verse that "agrees" with our point, but we don't necessarily look at the entire context of the Word, thus we make the verse "fit" our point, which is self-seeking. If we really wanted God's approval on things, we go to Him first, in prayer, in quietness, in word (as a whole), and in the consultation of other wise followers of His.

We set aside worldly "rights" and "opinions" for the greater good of the heavenly kingdom. I think lately our world (maybe just our country) has become so wrapped up in what are my "rights" and standing up for them, that we forget that earthly rights are worth nothing in an eternal perspective. These formulated "rights" may sound good and fair and seem, well, right, but those too can be a very blinding perspective of self-seeking love.

Galatians 5:13-15 states
"You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love. For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: 'Love your neighbor as yourself." If you bite and devour each other, watch out or you will be destroyed by each other." 

Don't always look to your best interest in this world or your rights, because those will fall eventually, and won't matter. The best thing you can do for yourself and for others is to share a Hope that is immovable, and a love that will start someone in the process of seeing something greater, more powerful, stronger, more lasting than anything else in this world can offer them. Look beyond tomorrow and what this world has to offer for you, and look ahead to an eternity and what needs to happen to get people needing that hope there. Our self-seeking will hinder these things if we are not careful.

Scripture to Read:
Romans 14, Luke 10:25-37

Questions to Ponder:
How can doing "good things" end up not being that good after all for others around you that you interact with?
What are some ways our thinking we're doing good things for Christ actually be a stumbling block or a "push away" to others?
What are some practical ways you can show selfless love to someone this week?

Teachings of Jesus - How We Pray

Growing up every night, my father would come into each of my brother and my bedrooms and we would say our prayers. Many times they would be repetitive night after night, thanking Him for the day, and about keeping dad safe on the road driving truck, and keep mom healthy and sane with us kids at home for days on end, and to help us sleep good. It was one of those ritual things we just did every night that didn't really add up to anything for us, until we were older and suddenly that ritual thing became more real for us. Life got real, and with that prayer life got real too. Now we are praying with our daughter every night, which may feel like nothing more than a ritual sometimes, but we know that ritual can become real for her, and we hope and pray it does.

Jesus taught us a model for prayer, as He gave His Sermon on the Mount, as well has how to pray authentic prayers. Not to do so for show and showing people how "well" you pray on the street corners. Or by babbling over and over with many words. But to simply offer a heart-filled prayer, speaking genuinely to Him. I think we get caught up in the words even today, wanting to sound good or fearing we won't sound good, so we refrain from praying. The truth is though, God wants to hear your heart, not your words.

As Jesus laid out a model for the people in His Sermon, we can take that and offer up our own hearts to Him:

"Our Father in Heaven, hallowed be Your Name..."
Recognizing that our Father is sacred and sits in the high throne of of lives. He sees the bigger picture and knows the steps for us, because He is in Heaven. Praise His Name because it is great indeed. There is a sign of respect in this opening line, as He is to be revered and not taken lightly. What a reminder of Who we are talking to as we open our prayers!

"...Your Kingdom come, Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven..."
Being open to God's full will, knowing that His plans are greater and higher than our own. We can plan and ask for His blessing on our plans, or we can ask Him to do His will in our lives and direct our steps for us. I think a lot of times, we come to Him with our own plans, and do what we think it best for us, rather than asking Him and waiting for Him to direct our steps.

"...Give us this day our daily bread..."
If you're like me, you worry about days, weeks, months down the road, when really God wants us to only worry about today. We pray that He provides for us TODAY and let tomorrow's worries come with tomorrow. This doesn't mean we are reckless with our futures, but it means we don't let worries destroy our today, because there is nothing we can do for the things that are coming. Let the bridges come as you need to cross them, and pray for provision today.

"...and forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors..."
Come to God with any confessions, admitting you are in the wrong, and forgiving those who are in the wrong with you. This isn't for the purpose of "clearing your name", but for setting your heart straight. Many times we think we are not in the wrong in situations, but really we need to see our side of what the possible issue is. We come to God, doing a heart check of where we are in life. Humble yourself and see all sides of the issues you are facing, knowing you need to let it go and let God take it, no matter how the other side feels about it. The relief you feel for letting something off the hook is more valuable than you know.

"...and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one."
While God never leads us into temptation Himself, He can provide us the strength to lead us through a struggle of it. Praying that He reminds you to hold on to the things that are solid, and to remind you that there is something Greater to be had. Though we will stumble over and over, striving to have His strength to get us through those times is a huge step in dependence on Him. Praying that He helps you to see light in every situation and know that there is a fuller life to be had, even in the dark times, will help you to see through those struggles.

Jesus provided us with a model, but wants your heart when you pray. Whether you take this one or pray as you go, check your motives and your heart behind your prayers. Always consider God's view and His way. The best part about talking to God is that you can talk to Him like you would a friend. Be open, honest and real with Him. Not only will this provide you with a way to recognize His voice more and more, but will build your relationship with Him. In a time that rituals reigned, Jesus found it necessary to lay out a structure of prayer. Don't let your prayers be ritual, but let them be real.

Scripture to Read:
Matthew 6:5-13, James 5:16

Questions to Ponder:
How often do you pray to God? How would you say your prayers are structured?
Why is it important to check our hearts when we go to God in prayer?
How do you think God will answer prayers?

Day 99: Leadership Qualities

Day 99
Deuteronomy 1-3; Mark 7

As we dive into Moses' final words and the book of Deuteronomy, we can see the qualities that made him a great leader. The words Moses shares shows who he is and how he valued God's direction in his life and in leading the people. Jesus also has some things to say and show about what a good leader has and values.

Moses opens his sermon with a reflection on where the people had been, remembering the hardships and the victories God gave them. While reliving hardships and battles we have faced can be a hard thing to do, it can also give us hope for conquering what is up ahead and remembering the God can take care of things there too. A good leader remembers what God has done for them and they know God will provide ahead, as well as empower people to feel that confidence in God as well, encouraging them to remember there is hope.

Moses continues on, remembering the heavy load he had in managing the people. It was then he learned that a good leader delegates and finds other good leaders to help them. A good leader can pick out great traits in others that make up a good, honest leader. In doing so, more is accomplished with less struggle. A good leader communicates clearly what needs to be done and allows other leaders to grab the reigns without feeling like the need to micromanage. When there is lack of communication, that is when micromanaging tends to happen.

Other traits of a leader are listed off as Moses explains. Well-respected. Wise. Understanding. Those who lead well can understand where a person is coming from, or at least strive to understand. They take the time to listen and know the struggles and needs. Some of the leaders that were appointed were judges and had to have good discernment and fairness. They needed thick skin, as Moses mentions, "don't be afraid of anyone's anger, for the decision you make is God's decision." (1:17) Leaders also know when things are over their heads and need a little extra guidance, as Moses had told them to bring difficult cases to him.

Good, Godly leaders know that their secret weapon is the Lord. They rely on His wisdom and guidance through every hard and easy thing. Moses recalls the victories they had over what seemed impossible. Leaders seem fearless because they know that God will fight for them if it is His will. Their strength comes from God, not of themselves. Managing people and hard things seems impossible, but we have a God Who can accomplish the impossible. Leaders remember this and handle the hard stuff through Christ.

Jesus displays what a good leader is all throughout His ministry. Though His way isn't the world's way, it is the best way. One of the key things Jesus displays here is having a pure heart. A heart that puts God's Word and ways ahead of traditions and what the world tells you to do. We see that there were religious leaders who ultimately crucified Christ because His ways didn't match theirs. Don't be that leader - who is so focused on what you want and what is convenient for you, that you fail to see what God's mission is for you.

A good leader also sees the needs people have, no matter who they are. Jesus helps a Gentile woman, even though He says it is right to help His own people first, the Jews. The woman replies humbly, knowing that Jesus has even enough for her to heal her daughter. Jesus sees the need and replies her daughter is healed. We can also get so caught up in our passions and what is immediately near us, that we forget there is need outside of our circles. Jesus proves this is important here. This woman pursues what she knows to be true whole-heartedly and Jesus respects that.

A good, Godly leader first and foremost, follows God. They realize their need for Him, and they strive to lead in such a way that honors Him. The entire Word of God is filled with leadership qualities and ways you can pursue Christ in leading others. Leaders get their strength from Him and can delegate tasks to others without micromanaging the scene. Clear communication and vision make up a great leader as well, and can keep you from micromanaging. We can learn from the best in the Bible, such as Moses, and the greatest yet in Jesus. Strive to be a leader that puts Christ first and that gives Him the glory in all of your accomplishments. 

Sticks and Stones

As I stare at the bruises on my arms from the 6 IV sticks I received, I notice they are healing. One week later, but they are on the track to clearing me of looking like an abuse case. I can't help but think of that phrase, "sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me." While bruises hurt and can't be touched for a few days without a little wincing, words do hurt for a very long time.

I've always been the kid to stick her foot in her mouth, then regret it for days, weeks, months after. I'm not even exaggerating. I still think about the time I said something stupid to someone while working 10 years ago at camp and I still call myself an idiot over it because apparently my joke became someone's reality. I didn't know the history there nor did I know what their life was dealing with in that moment, because 1: I didn't bother to find out. 2: I didn't think outside of my own shoes. Words last. Bruises fade.

We are in a time right now where everyone is throwing around hateful words. They don't realize it - that is the sad thing, or maybe they realize it and not care. Either way, it needs to end. These words are destroying lives, hurting families, and breaking up friendships. If I sound dramatic, then you must be one of the ones flaunting the words, unknowingly expressing rights for the sake of your own agenda, and you fail to notice how your blanket statements and pointedness towards your "friends" can actually do harm right in front of you.

Luckily, in 1 Corinthians 13, we read this: "If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing."

Because of this passage, I can feel a little release. The people who speak harshly to me and have never taken the time of day to understand my life, my history, my family, my struggles, my heart, my daily hardships...don't deserve rental space in my head. The last few months have been hard. I'm going to be brutally honest here: I've had things go through my mind that have been unhealthy, unloving, and have caused me to question who I am as a daughter of the King. Those words have made me depressed for months and it has affected my family. But do the ones who throw words at it, in hopes of solving world problems even care to know the problems of the people around them before casting "their opinion"? Obviously not. 

So from now on, if you're like me and are affected by peoples' words, start over today.
Remember they don't have credibility in your life because:
1) They don't love you
2) They don't care about anything but their words and their "rights". Thus, they don't care about yours, unless you jump on board with theirs.
3) They will never assume the best out of you. 
4) They have not earned your respect. 
5) They will go public and never actually sit down with you to know your life. 
6) They will probably hate you no matter what you say. 
7) They should be ignored for all the reasons listed above. 

I've set a standard for myself when receiving "criticism". If someone is going to cast criticism at me, and I'm going to actually listen to it and consider it, they must:
1) Love Jesus
2) Love the Church (in general)
3) Love me
It doesn't work otherwise. 

You are loved. Just make sure you find those people who love you and meet your criteria and listen to them, not because you are fearful or hateful, but because you are important too. Don't ever allow toxic people to make you go to dark places over political or personal agendas. Those things don't last anyways. Jesus does and His love endures forever.

Day 79: Rules of Freedom

Day 79:

Leviticus 26-27; 1 Thessalonians 1

I think we all go through times in life where certain rules feel unfair or we just are plain annoyed by them. As kids, we probably didn't care for some of the rules our parents put into place, but as we get older, we can begin to understand why we have or had rules (hopefully). If you think of rules from the standpoint of a competitive sport, you know they are necessary. Without the rules, it would be a free-for-all, chaotic mess. People would get hurt and the game itself would essentially go nowhere. Life is similar to that because of the "rules" God sets out. 

God didn't set rules to cast a cloud over us or make us feel constrained. In fact, God set the rules for His people because He loves them, and doesn't want to see the consequences of their actions ruin the rest of their lives. He knows the path you will go down and where it will lead you. If you truly know in your heart that God wants what is best for you, then following the rules will come naturally and with ease.

God lays out very clearly what will happen when the people fall away from Him. We can view this as a punishment from God, or we can view it as the consequences of OUR own choices, despite the warnings from God. (Remember when I mentioned that He knows what will happen down the path we take?) This happens today. We make a choice, despite the warnings, and we end up angry at God. (By the way, there is nothing wrong with being angry with God, but blaming Him is another story.) Our actions put us there, yet we think it's God's fault. Believe, believe, believe that God wants what is best for you. All His plans are good and His ways are good. His thoughts are higher. 

It is very evident from the way we read this section of scripture in Leviticus, that we WILL break the rules and fall out of line with God's will in our lives. However, we also read that God has redeemed us and has welcomed us back when we decide to turn around back to Him. His grace and love are always ready to have us back.

Rules can actually empower and cause you to thrive. As we jump into 1 Thessalonians, we read how the church was a model one in Thessalonica. The people from all over looked up to it. Because the people had received the message of Good News and actually carried it out, following God's leading with obedience, they thrived. Even though the people had suffered for their work in Christ, they didn't turn. (vs. 6) Rather than blaming God with their sufferings, they "received the message with joy, despite the severe suffering it caused. As a result of their obedience through that suffering, they have become the great example to all around them.

The people of Thessalonica knew the lean on Christ when things got hairy. They knew where they foundation was, and because of that, they endured the storms of persecution. It is important to know who's rules you choose to play by. You can play by the world's rules and have acceptance in this world for your lifetime, or you can play by God's rules that never change, and have the only acceptance you need now and for eternity. This proves, however, that even if you follow the rules Christ gives, it doesn't mean life will become easier. It just means you know what source you're turning to.

There is freedom in the rules. Seems contradictory, but if you really think about it, not having rules would lead to chaos and no direction. A game of football (or Monopoly for you non-sporty people) wouldn't make sense without the rules. Life is the same way. However, you choose who's rules you play by. You can conform to all of the ways of this world, experiencing it for a lifetime, or you can be transformed by Christ and His Word, and have that acceptance for this life and eternity. Life won't be any easier either way, but your foundation will sure be different depending on which way you go.

Day 53 - Consistent Life

Day 53
Psalms 26-27

Coming to God anytime and all the time, rather just when we need Him to rescue us is ideal. We see how David has constant contact with God throughout his life, when times are good and when times are bad. I can't help but wonder when people say "God isn't real because He didn't answer my plea". God becomes real when He is THE reason you live life and you treat Him with a proper relationship.

Where is your heart? What are its motives? Leaning on God for one situation and then acting like He doesn't exist in your life will show you where those motives are. David asks God to show him the blind spots in his faith and in his life. His heart longs to be right with God as he goes about life.

We see David relate with God in all aspects of his life as we read throughout Psalms. David not only asks for protection, but he also praises God, admires Him, asks to be cleansed, points out attributes, etc. What else do you talk to God about rather than just asking for His provision in a particular situation?

Don't treat God like He's only there for your provision. To have a true relationship with people, you talk to them about whatever, you don't only ask them for things. (That is just downright annoying too.) If you are seeking to have a "real" God in your life, start treating Him like He is real and keep your conversations with Him consistent all throughout the day, not just when you're facing a problem.

Day 28- Wisdom from Christ

Day 28
Job 8-10, James 3

We see the struggle of Job with his friends, challenging them in their perception of God. Job points out how unworthy he is to question God's judgement and doesn't see fit to try and reason with Him. I think it is so easy to tell God how unfair He is being when things fall into the pit. But as Job states, we are so unworthy to know what God is really planning and to know what He will teach us through it.

We also see how Job's friend, Bildad, wrongly accuses Job of not having full trust in God. But as we read in the opening of Job, he was most definitely relying on the Lord, and even making sacrifices for his children in case they weren't following Him fully. The insecurities that come, only come when we don't put our reliance on Him. Bildad definitely speaks out of term as he tries to call out Job's faith. How many times do we just talk to hopefully make a situation better, just for the sake of saying something? I know I can get that way at times...

James shares about using our tongue for good, rather than hindering. A tongue is so small, but it has all the power. Whatever you say to others will leave an impression, whether negatively or positively, and the negative impression is harder to get out. Your reputation is at the stake of your tongue in many cases, so it is important to tame it and watch what you say, whether it is to someone's face, behind their back, or through the false security of a computer screen.

From what we continue to read in James, chapter 3, the wisdom that comes from God is pure, peace-loving, gentle at ALL times, humble, full of good deeds and mercy, shows no favoritism, and is always sincere (James 3:17). Perhaps the best advice that comes out of our mouths should reflect these things, as that wisdom comes from God.

Next time you have a friend that is hurting, think twice before just talking to fill space. The words you say can help greatly, or hinder dramatically. Remember how to recognize what God's wisdom looks like and act on that. The words we say are powerful and last a very long time in a heart.

Day 18- Being Real with God

Day 18
Psalm 10-13

We have all felt hopeless at one time or another. David shows it here. He cries out to God to show him some hope and to protect him. It is a little refreshing to see the struggle that David portrays throughout Psalms in writing. I think many times we fear to show God our true feelings, but we see that David doesn't hold back.

There is nothing wrong with asking God questions, or venting to Him, or being persistent with Him. This tends to be a misconception for many people. But the awesome thing about God is that He can handle it, and He wants us to speak to Him in honesty. We are not to sin in our anger, but we can go to Him with it. David, feeling helpless and afraid, does just this.

I believe there is healing in the venting. When we acknowledge to God the negative things in our lives, whether it be other people who are attacking us, situations that keep rolling in, or fear that has us at a standstill, God can heal it and pull you through it. The catch, however is how we will deal with the negative things in our lives. God gives us the choice to do as we please, and the way we cope with things is one of them.

Here, we see that David praises God for His unfailing love and protection. He trusts that God will pull him through and rescue him. When we can see the big picture of what God is doing through the crud in our lives, we can begin to find true healing and grow ever so strong in who we are in Him.

What keeps kicking you down in life? Have you had an honest, real conversation with God about it? He wants you to come to Him in persistent prayer! Have a heart to heart with God and ask Him to show you a light and hope in the midst of your struggle. He can handle it and He can show you immense hope and love as you endure and grow through it!

Day 53: Growing in Quiet Time

Reading: Psalm 25:1-7

I know for me that each day is one that you never know what you're going to get. As a church secretary, you can encounter all sorts of circumstances throughout the day, from that same telemarketer that calls every other day and won't get the hint, to complainers, to angry people, to meeting after meeting, and once in awhile you get the quiet days where things get done (rarely ever happens). One way I can prep for my day and one thing I can count on in the midst of all the variables of the day is quiet time with God. We read here how David came to God during his hardships and put his focus daily on Him, allowing Him to take the reigns of life. This is exactly what we need in a culture that is unsure each day. When I miss those days of God's Word, I find myself more distracted and upset when I encounter the angry, complaining type days. But when I'm grounded in the Word that day, things seem better and though I care about those people who voice opinions, I realize they are not the end all to my day.

How does quiet times with God help you get through the variables of your day?



How do your days go when you have quiet time? What about without quiet time?




Reading: Mark 6:30-56

Sometimes, when all we want to do is have quiet, alone time, especially with God, that's when the distractions come. The phone will ring; an unexpected visitor comes; work gets too demanding and you spend your free time doing projects for that. Even in ministry, you can get distracted from that time, as we read when Jesus feeds the 5,000. He the disciples were on their way to be alone, and yet the crowds came, and Jesus felt compassion on their hunger. Because He followed through with fulfilling that need however, He witnessed to many and showed them He cared for them. When doing ministry, it's important to show people how much you care before you show them what you know.
Within the whirlwind of those busy days, we can feel quite defeated and struck down by life, but when we keep our eyes on Jesus and His power, we don't need to fear about tomorrow and what life is about to throw at us. Jesus walked on water and came to save the disciples from the strong winds that kept them straining. When we count on Jesus to calm our lives, we can get through those days a little easier.

When has life kept you too busy to connect with God on a quiet time basis?



How does looking to God in those crazy times help you to recognize needs around you and to keep you going strong?



Reading: Exodus 31:1-33:6

Being a good leader for God can surely mean being the odd man (or woman) out sometimes. It is so incredibly important to turn to God regularly in quiet time, prayer and study to know His voice from the rest of the world around us. We see how Aaron fell into the trap of the popular opinion and ended up creating the golden calf which the people worshiped instead of God. Moses, however, knowing God's voice and will, knew how wrong this was. Walking in close relationship with God will help you to stay strong against temptations, even if it's what the world around you demands. It's important to engage in quiet time so that you know what is right in God's eyes. Just because the rest of the world insists on one things, doesn't mean it is God's plan for you. Stand close to Him daily so you can stand strong when those questions arise in life.

How does daily time with God help you to know what He intends for you in life?



When have you faced temptation and were able to turn away from it because of something you read in quiet time with God?



It is so important to be in regular quiet time with God, reading His Word and praying to Him. When you stick close to Him daily, you will be able to withstand the hardships, worries, distractions and temptations of life. Knowing His voice over the world's demands can be a lonely road as a leader, but when you are certain of God's will because of your close walk with Him, you'll be able to lead well in Him. Get into His Word and will daily.

Day 51: His Holy Presence

Reading: Psalm 24:1-10

Coming into the Lord's presence is much bigger a deal than we make it out to be at times. This Psalm lays out just how great and holy He is. It answers the question on who is worthy to come into the presence of the Lord, and that is those with pure hearts and clean hands, as well as those who do not trust in idols or other things more than Him.
Though these standards sound impossible, Jesus has made the way for us to meet with God. He has closed the gap that between us and God that exists because of His holiness and our imperfections. We can rejoice in Him for making this way for us, for coming into the presence of the Lord is surely an incredible honor.

How do you live your life in thanksgiving to Jesus for closing the gap between us and God?



What about your heart do you need to examine as you come into God's presence?




Reading: Mark 5:21-6:6a

It takes faith to come into the presence of God. We read many faith-filled and faithless stories here as Jesus proceeds with His ministry.
First, as Jesus is making His way through the crowds, a woman who truly believes just touching Him can heal her does. Jesus knows right away, despite the hoards of people around Him. He knows this woman's faith, and because of her faith, she is made well.
We also read about Jesus bringing a little girl back to life, even though her loved ones thought it was too late. Jesus shows them that if they just believe, she can be made well, and she is brought back to life.
We also get a look at the flip side of faith as Jesus experiences the lack of faith and rejection from His own town. Because of this lack, He couldn't do much healing for the people there, except for a few sick. Faith is key to experiencing the power of Christ and His ability to do anything in your life.
If you're facing a problem or illness, have faith. We see the amazing things it can do. And yet, we also see what lack of faith does for us as well.

In what area of your life do you need have more faith in Christ for?



When have you seen faith move?




Reading: Exodus 27:1-28:43

We can't fully appreciate coming into the Lord's presence without realizing the work and intricacy it took before Jesus made it possible for us to do so. We read about the work and details that went into the Israelites building a special meeting place for the Lord, the Tabernacle. We can get an idea of the majestic holiness of God through the vibrant details of His meeting place.
Though today, we don't need to find God in a fancy building or in high terms, it is still important to know how special meeting with Him is. Jesus came and created a way for us to connect with Him, and we can easily access God with all of our concerns and worries today.

What about God do you admire most?



How often do you come to God in a day?



It is a very big deal to come into the presence of the Lord. Jesus has created a way for us to do just that. But we must never take for granted the importance of coming to Him and realizing just how holy He is. It takes faith to fully experience His presence in our lives, and we can come to Him with faith that He will take care of us. Be sure to go to Him daily and with every concern and worry you have. Praise Him for His presence in your life.

Day 36: Watching Words

Reading: Proverbs 4:1-9

This reading stresses to get wisdom as much as you can. Though knowing your Bible isn't what will send you to heaven, (the Pharisees were very knowledgeable in scripture, yet didn't have their priorities straight) it will teach you how to make wise decisions as you endure different life decisions. I personally pull out many truths everyday that I've read in the Bible and don't even realize it most of the time! It has just become instinct. We read how wisdom does us good through life. It protects us, guides us, helps us, etc. Life will still come with the ups and downs no matter how much Bible you know, but dealing with those situations can be a lot less stressful when you know how God wants you to handle it. His plan and advice is all-knowing and He knows how to get you through life. Just heed His words and apply what you know from them.

What scripture do you apply regularly in life?



What are you doing to gain some wisdom from His Word everyday?




Reading: Matthew 24:1-31

We read some pretty earth-shaking words here from Jesus as He goes into the His second coming. We can see why knowing His Words is so important as we need to be able to distinguish between false words and truth that only comes from God. Knowing what Jesus is telling us here is important as we go and proclaim His Name to all, and heed the warnings He lays before us about persecution and hatred from the world. We must not lose heart and remember that He will take care of His followers. In this section of our reading, we are even told to listen up and pay attention to Jesus' words here. That is how important it is for His followers to know what is coming. Though the details are still broad, we can take what we know and use it to glorify Him and remember to stay strong. Share the news to all!

Who do you need to share Jesus with?



How does this reading put pressure on in telling the world about Him?



Reading: Job 35:1-37:24

As we begin wrapping up Job's session with his friends, we continue to see the same patterns from them. Empty words that are false or only half-true, that don't offer any sort of encouragement to a friend who is suffering. If we can take anything and any wisdom from Job's "friends", it is to avoid speaking this way to our own friends when they are in need. Make sure that your words are loving and true when comforting or confronting. When we speak for the sake of just getting our voices heard, we don't always do our best at contributing to the conversation. We need to be sure our words are guided by the Holy Spirit and that they are God-approved. Words can build up lives and tear down lives. Treat your tongue as a powerful tool that can do either.

Where do you turn when getting ready to give advice?



Has anyone ever spoken empty, false words to you? How did you feel?




Words are powerful indeed. We can get much wisdom from God's Word and we need to strive to build ourselves up on them. When we face different situations in life, His Words will naturally come to mind if we remain in them. When offering our own words, may we confide in God's direction before speaking false, hurtful, or empty words to those around us.

Day 24: Communication Complications

Reading: Proverbs 3:1-10

One way to clearly hear God's voice and direction in our lives is through His Words in scripture. We start this reading right off the bat being told to never forget what we're being taught in the Word and to store them safely in our hearts. From there, we read that we need to trust in the Lord completely, and not depend on our own directions. There's a reason we're told this, and if you've ever had a train wreck sort of day in life, trying to do things your own way, you'll understand why.
Humbling ourselves and remembering that great wisdom comes from God is key. When we can accept the fact that He is in control and knows what we need, when we need it, we will follow a great path in life (maybe not easy, but better with Him). We need to open our hearts and His Word to the great wisdom and advice He has to offer us instead of trying to go about life on our own understanding.

What is your favorite passage in the Bible? Why?




When have you opened God's Word and read exactly what you needed to hear at that time?




Reading: Matthew 16:21-17:13

God knows what will become of the future. Jesus states what will happen to His disciples and Peter essentially reprimands Him for saying such horrible things will come to pass. But Jesus reminds Peter (and us) that following Him isn't always about getting our way, or about living a life of comfort. Jesus says that if we cannot take up our cross daily, we cannot follow Him. This means that we need to surrender our plans, comforts, life, dreams, hopes, careers, whatever, to be fully on board with Him, no matter how hard the road gets. Peter didn't like the sounds of a dark future for Jesus, but we are called to follow, no matter what.
Another interesting aspect about this reading is when Jesus takes Peter, James and John up onto the mountain and they witness Jesus' appearance changing. He was in deep conversation with Moses and Elijah, and God's voice came out and said "This is My dearly loved Son, Who brings me great joy. Listen to Him."
From this, we can gather that we too, can live in close communication with God. Though, it may not be as audible and earth-rumbling as this instance, we still can get those communications from the Holy Spirit. God tells the disciples to listen to Jesus, telling us that we should also follow Jesus' example from what we learn from Him in the Word.

When have you experienced a nudging from the Holy Spirit? What was it like?



When have you chosen comfort over following Christ's path?




Reading: Genesis 47:13-48:22

We see a great legacy being left by Joseph as we reach the conclusion of his story, and Jacob's story. Even after all the great things Joseph accomplished and was able to do for Egypt and Pharaoh, he still gives all praise and glory to God, and hasn't forgotten about where he came from. Joseph was in close communication with God and knew that God was leading him the entire time, even through the struggles and onto the prosperity.
When we get to the point in our lives that we can look back and see all we've accomplished, we need to remember Who got us there. Our lives are nothing without God's guidance. As we read in Proverbs, we need to "trust in the Lord with all our hearts, and lean not on our own understanding." Joseph was a prime example of this wisdom being played out. He didn't trust in his own mind, but in what God shone through him.
Remember where your accomplishments and prosperity comes from. Stay close to God, and He won't fail you.

What accomplishments have you had in life? Have you taken the time to thank God for them?




How have you seen God move in your life from struggle to success?



Communication is a two-way street. It takes one side to speak, and the other to listen. We can't carry out conversation without both ends. The same goes with following God's direction and listening to His words. When we make our relationship with Christ all about our end of things, and worrying about our own comforts and relishing in our own accomplishments, we lose the point of the word "relationship". Listen to His voice and always be open to His direction, whether it's comfortable or not.

Day 23: Privilege in Following

Reading: Psalm 14:1-7

Being a Christian come with many privileges, whether we realize it or not. In this Psalm, things feel hopeless and dark. Not a single human being is righteous or good. Only Jesus, Who was fully God and fully man was the only sinless one. Even when we are a part of this dark world, giving in to temptations and sin, God still gives us this amazing gift that will grant us eternity with Him. The truly wicked will disobey God and deny Him. God is with those who obey Him, and He will protect His people. We all are human, and we will all mess up. But the true thing that separates us from the world is our acknowledgement of God and Jesus. We strive to follow Him and His plans for us. When we screw up, we run back to Him and repent. Be blessed by this incredible gift God has given us.

What privilege do you see as a follower of Christ?



How do you feel set apart from the rest of the world as a Christian?




Reading: Matthew 16:1-20

Jesus gives us as a church a powerful authority here. He tells Peter that he will be the rock in which His church will be built. Jesus trusts Peter with His church, and He trusts us with His church. We are granted a responsibility to carry out the mission and will of Christ in reaching out to those around us. If we base church on no one but Christians, what is the purpose of the church? How do we carry out the mission when we focus on ourselves and our comforts? Jesus makes it clear here that He depends on us and trusts us with His plans. When we can acknowledge that He and He alone is our Messiah, as Peter did, we can gain the right to have authority in His mission. He builds us up to go and spread His mission to others. But when we abuse the church and make it something of our own, we lose the entire purpose of what we are called to do.
Keeping in mind that God will provide and guide us through, we need to make sure we keep our minds open at all times to His will and calling, especially as a church. Don't abuse the power God has given you in being His follower, but strive to make His church about Him.

What do you see the purpose of church being?



What do you believe God intended for the church?




Reading: Genesis 45:1-47:12

We see an amazing story play out here as Joseph reveals his identity to his brothers. And even more powerful - the forgiveness he gives to his brothers, even after all the hardships he endured. But Joseph recognizes a privilege he has as a follower of God. God used him to do amazing things through his hardships. We have this privilege as well. When we go through life, not knowing why things happen the way they do and left wondering about our situations, we can rest assured that God has a plan to use us in mighty, mighty ways, when we follow Him. Joseph tells his brothers that he is not mad at them for selling him into slavery in Egypt because God used him to save lives.
When we have a mentality and attitude like Joseph, we can take on almost anything that comes our way. God gives us so much authority and trust in carrying out His plan, that He is confident in us enough to know that we'll get through the hard stuff in life, and give Him the glory when it becomes great. Because Joseph followed God's timing and plan, he was able to save lives, including his family's, and bless his family with his riches and status.

What about your life do you feel God is working in for His plan?




What tough situation do you find yourself in that you are trusting God with? Could you have an attitude like Joseph's through it?




As followers of Christ, we are granted so many privileges and so much authority in carrying out God's plan for a broken world. Though we can be surrounded by those who could care less about the faith and what it means to be a follower of Christ, we are granted protection and presence from God when we obey His leading. As a church, we need to make sure we are not abusing the power Christ has given us in carrying out His mission in reaching a lost world, rather than making church about ourselves. And like Joseph, when we face years of hardship, we can hold on to an attitude of hope and awe as we see God's plan play out through it.

Day 82: Communication to Grow

Reading: Psalm 37:1-9

Communication is a necessary tool in growing any relationship. The same goes for growing in our relationship with God. In Psalms today, we read that when we open up before God, and put our delight in Him, He'll give us the desires of our hearts. God promises many things when we are open and allow Him to give to us.
He promises faith in fear. When we face the the hard and unknown things in life, we can know that our faith in God will provide us a way. Having an open communication with God will help us to place our faith and trust in Him in those hard times.
He promises guidance. When we commit our hearts to God, He'll make a way for us. We may be facing hard decisions in life, and have no clue which path to take. When we give it to God though, as this Psalm suggests, we will have guidance and wisdom that comes from Him. He will open the right doors and close the wrong ones. We can have faith that He intends good in our lives.
He promises to give us peace. When we commit to being quiet before God on a regular basis, it will grow our faith and communication with Him. This causes us to have peace of mind in all situations and to turn to God instead of fretting.


Reading: Luke 4:38-5:16

We can see how busy and tiring Jesus' ministry was as the crowds of people would hunt Him down to be healed, to hear Him, or to bring their loved ones to Him. This ministry was the biggest one that existed, ever. How did Jesus stay so energized and not burn out? In a parable He has the fishermen act out, we see how He does it:
Knowing the Need. Just like there are tons of fish in the Sea of Galilee to be caught, there are tons of people that need to know God. Mission is the primary task of the church. We are called to cast our nets in deep waters.
Knowing that nothing is impossible with Jesus. When Jesus first asks the men to cast their nets, the initial reaction is negative, insisting that they'll catch nothing, as it has been that way all night. But once they realize Jesus is asking them to, they do it, and catch a great amount. Though we may think things are impossible, especially the ones we've already tried over and over, we need to remember that Jesus makes all things possible.
Having partnership. A very important part of ministry is having partnership and unity. When the men catch the huge load of fish, they summon their partners to come help them. We were never meant to carry out the mission alone. When we go on mission trips with a team of people, the last thing we want is disunity and not getting along. It is very unattractive to those you witness to, and causes unsettled issues in the group. The purpose of unity is to build up and to display the love of God.
A worthy vision. When Jesus asks the men to follow Him and to fish for people, they drop everything to follow Him. Could you imagine the though their minds? This was a vision these men believed in. They wanted to be apart of it, so much so that they leave everything to follow it.
Find alone time with God. Everyday, we need to be renewed by Him. When we try to do a day without focus on Him, it makes for a hard day.


Reading: Numbers 15:1-16:35

After reading this shocking section, there is now doubt that God takes communication and relationship with Him seriously. The Sabbath day, though not taken so seriously now, is set aside for us to stop and meet with God. In a culture that continually moves and keeps us busy, it is hard to take a day to just rest and be with God. However, this is vital for our relationships to grow in Him. We saw the penalty in Moses' day for working on the Sabbath. Though death may not stand now, it can sure be bad on our relationship with God when we put our busy schedules before Him.
We also see what happens when we rebel against God's plan. Though these men thought they were doing right by trying to overthrow Moses and Aaron, they were obviously very out of tune with what God's plan was. When we fail to spend time with God and communicate with Him, we run the risk of not knowing His plan too. Though the earth may not swallow us up, we can sure find ourselves down a dark road when we don't follow Him.


Communication is the basis of any relationship. When we fail to communicate, we fail to grow that relationship. Communication keeps us in tune with God's will and plan for us. We can hold passion for His vision when we know His direction. Make it priority to spend time with God, despite our busy lives and schedules. Where do your priorities lie anyways?