Day 118: Work to Be Done

Day 118
Joshua 13-15; 1 Corinthians 2

We get tired of the work before us at times. We may feel old, or sick, or just simply drained of life because of the things we're doing for the cause of Christ. We may feel inadequate and like we're not ready, so the work should go to someone else. We may just need a kick in the pants to remind us of Who we are looking to and Who we are working for. Today, let's consider these concepts of continual work for the Lord.

Joshua was getting older, and there was still much to be done. There was tedious work to be done in dividing the land among the people of Israel and even more fights to be won. Even in old age, God still uses you to complete His work. I think we go through seasons of life where we feel like we just can't continue in ministry (if you're a Christian, you are in ministry). It can be tough when you are in ill health or feel inadequate, but God will still use you in some capacity to carry out what He needs done to bless those around you. Simply sharing your story and reflecting with others is a big part of sharing the love God has for us with others.

Caleb's faithfulness this far to the Lord paid off. Caleb wasn't faithful for his own benefit, but because he believed in the mission God had called him to. Joshua was the same, and God rewarded both of them by delivering them to the Promised Land. Joshua even fulfilled a promise to Caleb in granting him his share of land 45 years from the time God promise it to him through the Lord. These men were sold out, faithful to God and they showed it, no matter how old they became and how old the promises became. Can you honestly say that you are still willing to do ministry, even if it does become tedious and hard, until your last breath?

On the flip side, our lack of maturity can keep us from truly doing the work Christ called us to. In 1 Corinthians, we read about how the people stumbled on leadership agreements, jealousy, quarreling, disunity, and deception. They are tripping over the wisdom of the world rather than wisdom of the Lord. Yet, there is much work to be done that requires God's wisdom, unity, camaraderie, and knowing Who gets the glory. It's God, every time - in case you didn't know. Stop stumbling and do some work for the Lord. Stop looking at the people around you, judging them, comparing yourself to them, and start looking up and comparing yourself to Him. There is work to be done.

Today, I want to leave you with this poem by Jill Briscoe:

Shaken, drained, discouraged, sickly
Tired and troubled and depressed, 
Glad the time of serving over,
Now I’ll go home and rest.

Hot and humid was the weather
Sad and needy was the crowd, 
Feeling I had done my duty,
Earned the time of rest allowed. 

Soon I could return to family
"Yes," tomorrow I’d be gone, 
Sitting in the last hot meeting,
I tuned in to what went on.

Listened to my husband preaching,
My, it was a great last talk, 
All about the call of Jesus,
All about our life’s “faith walk.” 

Stuart opened up the Scriptures
Talked of Jesus’ pain and loss, 
How He who was our great sin bearer,
Bore our guilt upon His cross.

What a great word for the students!
Hoped “they’d” listened, yield their hearts, 
They were young, their lives before them,
Now their turn to do their part.

Time for prayers of dedication,
I was tired, so late at night,
Shut my eyes and wished it over,
When a picture sprang to sight!

Saw a cross alone, discarded
Lain at rest against a wall, 
Who’d lain down such holy symbol?
Who’d abandoned life’s “faith call”? 

Then a voice so dear – familiar,
Asked a question – pierced me through, 
Who is it that you’re expecting
Carrying it home for you?

How could I lay down that crossbeam?
How to think that no one saw? 
Who did I expect to lift it,
Carry it to heaven’s door? 

"Jesus, Jesus, please forgive me,
Carried Thou your cross for me, 
All the way to hell to save us,
Help me carry mine for Thee!"

"I’m no hero – special woman
Just a lady, old and gray, 
But my cross, Lord, I will carry,
Home, Lord, home, Lord – ALL THE WAY!"

Spoke His voice so quiet – but clearly then:
"All the way home, Jill; all the way, all the way home!"

Jill Briscoe © 2012 

Day 83: Beautiful Faithfulness

Day 83
Numbers 5-6; 1 Thessalonians 4

There is a lot in this world that tells you to go and do what makes you happy. While I am all for doing what makes this life beautiful for you, God tells us to do what makes you holy. This doesn't mean we need to necessarily stop doing the things that make us happy, but we do need to make sure we are being faithful to Him in our happiness and that the things we are doing are pleasing to Him. Today's readings talk a lot about purity and being faithful to yourself, to others, and to God.

Showing yourself respect goes deeper than simply standing up for your rights, as many in this world believe today. Being faithful to yourself in the ways God's Word lays out in our readings today creates a different view than what this world tells you to do in respecting yourself. God tells us to show respect for our bodies. What does this mean? Not only should you avoid sinning sexually, which is becoming looser in this world today as well, but don't flaunt it for the world to see when it is only meant for your spouse. This is tough in a culture that tells you to "express yourself" and making you believe that when you show more you get more. Ladies, this is why the types of guys you attract won't care about your heart, but your body. Get them on board with what is on the inside before allowing them more. Ladies want the heart of a man. Men want the body of a woman. He needs to earn it before you allow him in. (Check out Mark Gungor's Laugh Your Way to a Better Marriage here - there is more than material for marriage in there.)

Faithfulness to yourself also comes with reputation. Paul tells us to live "quiet lives" and to "mind our own business". In other words, quit gossiping and causing others to question your motives. If you were ever to be blamed for something you didn't do, would it be easier for you to stand your case if you have been gossiping to everyone or living a life that only fulfills your needs and wants? Live a life above reproach, so that when someone does try to cast blame on you, it is hard for anyone to believe them.

This ties directly into being faithful to others around you. No one can just get that from you. They have to earn it and the trust needs to be built, but once you are friends, spouses, etc. follow the same rules towards them that you would want on yourself. Be faithful to them and protect their reputations, not gossiping, slandering, or spreading hate. We read an interesting process in Numbers 5, as the rituals of finding out if a woman is guilty of an affair is laid out for us. As the woman's faithfulness is being put to the test, her husband's is as well. The type of man to put that test on an innocent woman would be shameful indeed. But the type of woman who would fall guilty to that test is also shameful. Be faithful to one another. Do everything in your power to fight for your marriage, friendships, and relationships with family. I know the bottom falls out on the other side of that coin at times, to which I say the other person didn't do their job in that. Don't feel guilty for another person's unfaithfulness to you.

The most important one we can have faithfulness to is God. When we show Him faithfulness, we pour into the other areas of our lives that we need to be faithful in. He is the foundation. A heart that beats for Him will be one that protects yourself and others through faithfulness. We have an incredible hope that comes through our faith in Christ and allowing Him our entire life, keeping faithful to Him before all else. If we obey and are faithful to Him, pouring His Word, His values, His promises into our souls, in turn, we will live lives that are beautiful, regardless of how messy they become because He shined in them no matter what your situation was. If you remain faithful to Him, abiding daily in Him words, you can overcome through His power.

How faithful are you? Do you show you are faithful to God on a daily basis? To others? To yourself? First and foremost, be faithful in God's Word and promises, and all else will fall into place. Treat others and yourself in ways that are honoring to Christ. Be the type of person who lives a beautiful life because of the messy circumstances you allowed God to pull you through. Your faithfulness to Him will flow to other areas of your life. Allow Him to work in it.

Day 81: Givers and Takers

Day 81

Psalm 36-37

If it is one thing I have learned over the last few months, there is a vibe left by those who take that completely contradicts that of those who give. I can't even tell you how broken, depressed and hopeless takers have made me, yet, Jesus warns us that those "thieves" come to steal and destroy. Rather than always thinking of the material things that are taken from us, it all became clear to me that Jesus came to seek and save us, while others who steal joy will be pushed aside. 

Our reading in Psalms today is no different in offering the hope that comes from giving, even when takers are everywhere. David is struggling with the poison that comes from that vibe of wicked people. He questions himself and feels the joy being sucked right out of his life as he continues to run from his enemies. I can only imagine how draining it is for David to be in such a situation of the feeling of constant judgement, wickedness, and hate towards him.

There are perks to being a giving, Godly person. God will lead you. He delights in you. Even when they stumble, they will never fall. (Ps. 37:23-24) I think we sometimes fear giving of so much of ourselves. This is understandable. People hurt you. People take advantage. People leech to you. It's a tough world in the one of a giving spirit. However, God's promises are that we don't have to go it alone. We never need to worry about losing anything in this life because He is the ultimate thing we need. David tells us not to worry because the wicked will fade away.

We serve a giving God. He gave us the ultimate sacrifice and He gives to us on a daily basis if we truly trust in Him. "Your love, Lord, reaches to the heavens, Your faithfulness to the skies.

Your righteousness is like the highest mountains, Your justice like the great deep." 36:5-6

His giving is endless and immeasurable. We can be a piece of that in someone's life, and continue to be filled up by Him. The readings of these Psalms tell us how we are to be and the blessings and consequences that come with each. 

 

Be someone who pours into the lives of others around you. There is a reason God placed people in your life right in front of you. Don't steal joy or cause someone to question their worth. Continue to give for the Lord in all you do. Work as if you work for Him, because even if your life and your work feels meaningless, it has purpose. Remember that the people who continue to take from you will soon fade. Do the will of God and you will have all you need. 

Day 78: Positive Outlook

Day 78:

Leviticus 25; Matthew 28

There is much reason to be optimistic about your future if you rely on Christ in your life. We place so much time trying to control our lives and cling to what isn't even ours, yet with Christ, we have all we need. As we read today, we can stand confident that there is so much more life in Him than in anything we can ever possess in this world.

I have to say that I was intrigued by reading of the "year of Jubilee." I had heard about it, but never have really dove into it to learn more. I do remember it from one of my favorite songs back in the day. (Maybe you remember it - "Did You Feel the Mountains Tremble?")
Anyways, as I read, I realize that this year of Jubilee was a freedom of all bondage, all debts, all worries essentially. Could you imagine getting a Sabbath Day from your worries and the things that hold your faith captive? I can't tell you how often I worry about life's debts, bills, obligations, etc.

It was also a time of rest for the fields, meaning the people couldn't harvest or plant or work them. God promised them a bigger production in the year before though, that would carry them into the year after Jubilee. This was surely a way to teach the people to have faith in Him and know He is their ultimate provider and care-giver. 

This year of Jubilee sets up a lovely picture of how we are to face this life with Christ in it. I think so many times in today's world, we worry more about the money we earn, the things we have, the relationships we're pursuing, everything that can possibly have a worry. (No? Just me?)
But as we read about the overwhelming resurrection of Christ in Matthew, I can't help but feel a powerful peace of mind about what is to come in this time of our lives. There is hope beyond our graves and beyond the troubles of this world! How awesome that we can rely fully on that promise when we say "yes" to Christ!

It is easy to doubt. The disciples doubted when they had heard Jesus rose. The very people that were with Him constantly and learned from Him doubted. There is hope for you. Ironically, women were the first ones to hear the news straight from the angels at the tomb. Women, who were rarely allowed to bare witness or testimony. Why would God choose them to be the first to see, hear and share the Good News? Because no matter what our capabilities are in this world, and no  matter how someone views your role and status, you are an important asset to the movement of Christ. The guards were paid off to twist the truth about Jesus rising. We have 3 choices based on this. We can question our abilities and tell God, "nah, I'm not good enough. Pick someone else."
We can allow God to use us despite what this world thinks we are and spread the Good News from person to person, as Jesus did.
Or, we can deny it happened and twist the truth that we refuse to believe, even though it is written in the most truthful book that was ever created. As a Christian, THIS is your book. You claim Christ, you claim His words in every single aspect of your life. You can't be lukewarm. (Revelation 3:16)

We have a mission to fulfill. We have been commanded, not advised, not recommended, but COMMANDED to go make disciples. Jesus promises that He will be with us. If we truly have Christ in our lives, and we have said "yes" to His leading, we can have such a positive outlook beyond this world and beyond the grave. We can doubt our abilities and sit around, we can twist it all around and deny He ever rose and was here for us, or we can stand firm in knowing that He has our backs when we fall into HIS plan, rather than try to take it ourselves. Know that He will provide for you and you needn't cling to anything in this world by Him.

Day 31 - Twisted Truths

Day 31
Job 17-19, Galatians 1

Today, we continue with Job down this agonizing path. His friends keep accusing him, rather than comforting him, and we can see that Job is right fully upset. His friends raise a lot of truths, but in Job's situation, they are not true at all. They don't take the time to check the facts and trust Job's words.

It is so easy to be a "Bible-thumper" without knowing someone's heart. It isn't only annoying, but it can be very hurtful. I personally get very offended when someone tells me how I should be living my faith, when they have no clue what I've been through. I am guilty of telling people what to do, when I have no clue where they have been in life. I think it is necessary to empower people and push them in faith a little, but I don't think it is ever okay to beat them with God's Words, which is completely contradicting Him anyways.

Galatians opens with this point of twisted truth. Not only do we twist the Word to use against others, but we twist it to fit what we want and how we want it. Paul warns us that there is only One you are to gain approval from, and there is only One you answer to in the end. Working for man and seeking their approval is going to be a harsh reality check. When you are constantly in the Word and KNOW what God says about things, rather than listening to what man says, or what man says he thinks God says, you can go a lot further.

A heart changed for Christ is no mistaken thing. Paul makes this clear as he tells his story. There is truth behind an authentic heart that is sold out for Christ. When we are able to be open to others about our faith and allow God's Word to envelop our hearts, we can do amazing things through Christ!

Keep yourself in check when it comes to God's Truth. Don't use it to judge someone, or beat them down, but to empower them and to lift them up! Don't try to keep fitting God's Words into your ideal box and make it tailored to your comforts, but use it to grow and to go! Beware of the twists our society and culture put on things and stay in the Word!

Day 25 - Standing Firm

Day 25
Psalm 14-17

Ponder these verses you read today a little more:

I will not be shaken, for He is right beside me. Psalm 16:8

You will show me the way of life, granting me with the joy of Your presence and the pleasures of living with You forever. Psalm 15:11

I am praying because I know You will answer, O God. Psalm 17:6

Because I am righteous, I will see You. When I wake, I will see You face to face and be satisfied. Psalm 17:15

What is it you need from God today? Theses verses sure feed a soul, and empower a heart. Stand firm! He is with you and will fulfill you in every way. Stay by Him.

Day 22 - Keep the Faith

Day 22
Genesis 46-48, John 19

There are so many unknowns in life. We can see this theme throughout God's Word as we watch God work through people and the processes of faith that take place.
Jacob, being near the end of life, I'm sure wasn't expecting much more. But we read the beautiful story of how his family is reunited and he is able to experience how God has worked in powerful ways. We will continue to read about the amazing things God does through this line of people!

Joseph's faith led him to where he is too. His family experiences healing because of it. Though Joseph went through horrible times of rejection and hardship, we can see how hard he holds onto God throughout, and because of his faith, life has come to God's awesome plan being played out.

Another step of faith is in our own lives. Jesus died for us and many have a hard time believing He rose again and will be coming back. We leave off in John at a seemingly bleak moment. A time of hopelessness and probably a lot of people losing the faith they had in God's power.

Each of these examples have one major thing in common. Each of them had a window of darkness at one time or another. That window, however, was expanded to see the hope and power that came through in the end. Just because you are looking out a dark window right now, remember that in days, weeks, months, even years, God's glory is revealed.

God does some of His best work in the midst of hardship. We have to be at the absolute bottom to know that up is the only place to look. The bottom of the pit is a lonely, dark, hopeless place to be, but as we read today, God works again and again for those who trust in Him. It is so easy to stumble and give up on faith. A stronger person holds on and keeps looking to Him, even when they don't feel like doing it. Hold on and keep having faith in what God has in store for you.

Day 16 - Heart Check

Day 16
Reading: Genesis 33-35, John 14

Has your heart been troubled? Today, we read that Jesus gives us the ultimate and only true peace of mind and heart that the world cannot provide. He reiterates over and over that He is the only true way to this peace and to great guidance, which is to His Father. He promises that when we follow Him, we will receive these things and we shouldn't be troubled by the circumstances that threaten to overcome us.

We see this play out greatly as we continue to read of Jacob and his family. There is a lot of "life" lived in these 3 short chapters of Genesis. Jacob and Esau reconcile. Rachel dies. Jacob is left with another son. His daughter is raped. His sons slaughter a village. They are moved again. And Isaac, Jacob's father dies.
We continue to see the faithfulness Jacob has in the Lord, however. God continues to bless and protect him and his family as they endure life. Jacob learns many lessons throughout his life, including the ones we've seen with cheating others, reconciliation, humility, parenting, etc. I think we can relate to Jacob in many ways - hopefully not in a "my family slaughtered an entire village" sort of way though... But we can see how God works in the situations that come our way and grows us through them. Jacob is angry at his sons for killing as he fears his reputation, but we see that God has bigger things in mind as he continues to lead him to protection.

Jesus came to offer us that peace. There is something to be said about a person who relies on Him when life hits the fan and things seem to be falling apart. The disciples felt this way, I'm sure, as they were told by Jesus that He was leaving them. They couldn't grasp it, and they didn't want to let Him go. But Jesus reassures them and tells them they will have guidance and peace. How would this be any different for us as His followers today? We can bet that staying in tune with Him will provide us with the peace that the world cannot offer (John 14:27).

Where is your heart today? Are you relying heavily on what this world is trying to offer for the ultimate "comfort", peace, and understanding? Jesus tells us that this can only come through His Father through Him. I can tell you firsthand that there has never been a truer statement. When life goes south and things begin to fall apart, looking to Christ will pull you through every time and leave a lasting imprint. Don't let your heart be troubled by the things of this world and of this life. Give your heart to God and let Him place a great peace and protection over it.

Day 13 - Timing is Everything

Day 13
Genesis 27-28, John 11

There is great evidence in relying on God's timing as we read our sections today. Rebekah obviously didn't trust in God's timing and manipulated the situation so Jacob would be blessed before his brother, even though God had already told her that Jacob would rule over him. Because of her plan, hostility builds up between the brothers and family drama breaks out. 

But we read that God still works despite Rebecca and Jacob taking matters into their own hands. The Lord speaks to him in a dream, sharing the covenant and promise that was shared with Abraham and Isaac. Jacob had to own it, though. Just because he happens to be apart of a family that is blessed and was raised in the faith doesn't mean it comes to him automatically. Jacob realizes God's presence and respects His timing, building a memorial with the rock he rested his head on. We see how his confidence changes after his interaction with God. Jacob went from manipulation with his mother to trusting in God's provision and timing, making a vow that if God provides him with everything he needs and protects him, he will give his tenth of what he has been given. 

How can you be sure that you are trusting in His provision and timing, rather than taking matters into your own hands?

In John, we read of Jesus raising Kazaus from the dead. The question that arises is why didn't Jesus come before Lazarus passed away? Jesus points out that God's glory would be revealed. 

Sometimes we have to endure the rough parts of life for God to reveal Himself. Great things happen when God works in impossible situations. Our suffering will be made whole when His glory is revealed through it. How awesome is it to be able to be that light for Christ? He can shine through you in His timing! 

As you look at where you are at in life today, and see the work God has done in it, do you truly trust that His timing is the best? Maybe right now you feel like taking matters into your own hands, or you feel spiritually dead. God has a plan and He has the perfect timing in mind! Pursue Him and wait. Let His glory be revealed through the circumstance He pulls you through.

Day 12 - Rivalry

Day 12
Genesis 25-26, John 10

Since the beginning, rivalry has been a very present element to the world. Cain and Abel were the first examples, and now we read about Esau and Jacob. Since they were in the womb together, we read that they "struggled" with each other, and as boys Esau ends up giving his birthright to Jacob.
Isaac himself faces rivalry in the water wells his father had set up. Ironically enough, Isaac falls into the same situation with Rebekah, as his father once had with his mother, in telling her to tell the people of Gerar that she was his sister, rather than his wife. Abimelech has Isaac leave eventually, because he can feel the rivalry building as Isaac becomes more and more wealthy and powerful.

Isaac is reminded, however of the blessing and covenant that God has made with his family. Because of Isaac's faithfulness and way with the Lord, we see that Abimelech approaches him and forms and oath with him. Rather than giving into rivalry, we see them pact together.

In John, we see the analogy of Jesus being our Shepherd and us learning what our Shepherd's voice is like. There are many things in this world that rival Jesus and His voice. We can choose to be under the protection of our true Savior or follow the ways and the deceptions of what the world wants to offer us. As Jesus says about the thief who want so seek and destroy, the world has a similar tactic. It doesn't have our best interest in mind like a shepherd does for his sheep, or like Jesus has for us.

We see how Jesus makes the people uncomfortable - to the point of them wanting to kill Him, and that is certainly true today, as the world continues to pull Jesus out of things because it doesn't want to face what is "uncomfortable" in causing the conflict.

What is rivaling in your life? Is there something trying to take the place that only Jesus can fill? We were never promised lack of conflict in life. But we were promised that if we stand strong and rely on Him, He will make a way for us. Hold tight to Him over anything else in this world and in your life. He has your best interest in mind and wants you to thrive!

Day 7- Questioning God's Will

Day 7
Genesis 16-17, John 6

 I think we all hit a point in life where we question God. Perhaps after a hardship or after a situation occurs that is less than ideal, or like Abraham and Sarah, perhaps after waiting for God to come through, you take matters into your own hands.
Even after we read about Sarah giving Hagar to Abraham to have a child for them, we read that God still promises blessing on Abraham and Sarah. It had been 10 years since they settled in Canaan, and they were still waiting for God's promises to come through. Getting older and watching life pass them by probably sparked a little questioning and pro-activeness in "making" God's promise happen.
I think we can be guilty of this as well. We make plans, set agendas and wait for God to get on board with what we have planned, rather than waiting for God to set the plan in motion for us. It is important to remember that His timing is the best timing.

In John, we read about more questioning in the people and followers of Jesus. After feeding five-thousand and showing the amazing abilities He possessed, Jesus is still asked to show the people miraculous things. He gives them the message of being complete in only His Father, but the people, and followers, find this far-fetched and many walk away.

Do you ever think that God is far-fetched? I think it is a totally human thing to question God and use it to grow in Him, but when you question Him to the point of not displaying true faith in Him, it is easy to fall away.
It is important to remember what God has done for you already. He has done so many amazing things for you and He is working in you. When we can hang on to the times He has come through for us, in the little and big ways, we can begin to see the perfection behind His timing and will.

What is happening in your life right now that might cause you to question? What is something you've experienced in the past that can serve as a reminder to you that God is faithful? Faith comes into play when we don't see the whole picture. It is believing in what we cannot see. If we knew what was going to happen, faith would not exist. Trust in His timing and trust in His promises. He has you covered in the most amazing ways!

Day 6 - Humility Helps

Day 6
Genesis 13-15, John 5

Humility is key. This is how Jesus based His ministry. And it is the key to the sections we read about today.
When there is conflict between the Abram and Lot's people, Abram takes the humble way and offers Lot a choice of the land, knowing that he might not get the best choice after Lot gets it. But in doing this, Abram keeps close ties with his nephew and still finds blessing in the end. Abram even goes to rescue his nephew when he is captured during the wars. Abram could have easily let Lot go and then taken the land for himself, but he does the right and humble thing in going after him.
I think we all have instances where we don't humble ourselves to do the right thing. Whether it's because we want our way, or we don't want to look weak. But the reality of humility is that it is a very strong thing to do.

Abram gets great blessing from the Lord, as we read on to the covenant made. Abram doesn't feel worthy, as he doesn't even have a son to carry on his family. But the Lord promises him one, and that he'll have many descendants. (Abraham's line is actually the line to Jesus.) Because Abram was humble and followed God's heart, he is greatly blessed.

In John, we read about an encounter Jesus has with a man who cannot walk. He flat out asks the man if he wants to be well. Many might find this a strange question, but the reality of it is that we don't always want to ask for help - as we would rather do something our own way, or be stuck in the rut we're in because it has become the "comfortable" way of being. Asking God for help is a humbling exercise. When we can admit we can't do it with out Him, we can do impossible things indeed.

Jesus displays this in His own ministry by telling those who are after Him about how without the Father, He could do nothing. Without turning to Him, we can't do anything either. Jesus lays into the men accusing Him, and points out that even the laws they are following point right back to Him, yet they are too stubborn to come to Him.

Humility can make or break us. When we are too prideful to ask for help, or do the right thing, we can surely fall short, and even fall short for all eternity. Christ wants us to come to Him and know our need for His help in this life! When we are too prideful to do it, we will lose out eternally. Humble yourselves in every circumstance. Ask for help. Do what is right, even if it isn't in your best interest.

Day 3- God > I

Day 3

Genesis 7-9, John 3

As Noah and his family wait to get off the boat amidst the 40 day storm (and another many months floating in the waters) that God washed out earth with, we can see the faith that Noah continues to have. It is incredible that Noah had so much faith that he spent about 120 years (according to the NLT Student's Study Bible) building the ark. This huge boat sat in Noah's neighborhood that long, as a last chance reminder to the other people questioning Noah's efforts. I couldn't imagine the faith Noah clung to for those years as he put up with the insults and jeering of the people around him. That is faith! We have a hard time wearing faith on our wardrobe now in grocery stores and at school, let alone displaying it as a massive lawn ornament, questioned by all. 

But, we see just how Noah's (and his sons') work paid off, and the flood waters came. And another 371 days goes by, waiting on faith. (According to the Chronological Study Bible.)

But we see how blessed Noah and his family are because of their faith. They have the wonderful privilege to start the world over and carry on God's covenant. But, as we read on, even these "mountain top" faith experiences can't keep us immune to sin, as the man God found favor in gets drunk and reckless. 

We read in John 3 today of another instance of faith. Nicodemus questions being reborn to the spirit with Jesus. Jesus explains it as the wind blowing. We see evidence of the wind blowing, but we can't see the wind itself. Faith in changing our lives and becoming new as a Christ-follower is key. We need to cling to the words and promises of God's Word as we step out in faith, living a life for Him. Our reward is beyond this life, in the Kingdom of heaven. Those who have great faith like Noah and John the Baptist, who proclaimed Christ to his own followers, telling them that Jesus must be more of the focus than him, will reap great rewards. 

Our lives should shine in exuberant faith! Make people ask why you shine, despite the evil in this world. Shine your light on God, rather than taking the credit for what you accomplish. Without God's direction and power, you would not have accomplished anything. Noah could have easily taken credit for the tiresome work he poured into the building of the ark, and John the Baptist could have made himself look like the greater leader, but both of these figures had faith enough to shine their feats back to God. How can you point your life back to Him? How can you become less, so He can be greater? Isn't that what our mission is at the base? 

Day 49: Keeping up the Mission

Reading: Psalm 22:22-31

There is much to celebrate in Jesus. He has given us victory over darkness and sin, and we can come to Him freely and openly with our cries. Psalm 22 starts out in such hopelessness and darkness, reflecting forward to the day that Christ was put to death. However, it ends in great victory over the darkness as this Psalm does. We have a great hope in Christ and through Jesus. One day every knee will bow to Him. When darkness comes in your life, hang onto the light that comes in the end. Remember the wonderful plan God carried out after His Son was put to death of us. His plan is always good and always the best.

Are you facing a dark time right now that feels like it is hopeless?



How can you celebrate the victory you have in Jesus today?




Reading: Mark 3:31-4:29

Hearing and embracing God's Word is highly important in carrying out His mission in our lives. Jesus wants us to live in a close relationship with Him, as He states when He calls us all His brothers and sisters. He emphasizes many times throughout this reading to listen closely to His Words, and the emphasis is still there today. When we allow God's Word to embed into our lives, we will be able to bring it to many others and cause a great harvest for Him. Yet others will hear the Word, and just let it bounce off of them, as their roots are not deep enough to sustain the relationship with Him.
Making sure we are deep in God's Word throughout our lives will help us to gain the wisdom and knowledge He intends for us, as well as to be empowered to take it to others. It is important to find the time to get into His Word and listen for His instruction through prayer on a daily basis so that we can continue to carry out the work He has for us.

What does it mean to be a brother or sister in Christ to you?



How can you continue to grow your life closer to Him and His Word?




Reading: Exodus 23:1-24:18

Just like God wanted a close covenant with the Israelites, He wants to be in close covenant with us with the New Covenant. We remember this New Covenant with Christ when we partake in communion and remember what He did for us on the cross to close the gap between us and Him. Christ sends us out to be the message to the world for Him, and He says He will be with us as we do this. The same went for Moses and his people with their covenant. God kept an angel to keep watch on them, guiding them along their way. Christ promises to be with us and never to leave us or forsake us when we are carrying out His will in our lives. Sticking to His path and remember His great sacrifice for us will get us far in the mission. Don't fear what's around the corner, for God is with us.

When do you feel closest to God?



How can you serve Him and carry out the mission He lays before you?



We are called to be messengers for Christ, carrying out His mission around the world. Even when it seems dark and uninviting, as it was for Christ going to the cross, we need to remember the great light and plan that came about because of Christ's suffering for us. When we stay in His Word and embed it in our lives, we can be better prepared for what's ahead and carrying His Word to all. We have nothing to fear as we go out because He will be with us every step of the way.

Day 45: Power & Provision

Reading: Psalm 21:8-13

It is amazing the controversy the name "Jesus" rises up in today's world. Yet, when we read of the power and strength God possesses in this Psalm, it's no wonder why the topic gets so run over. God is all-powerful and all-knowing. We can sing praises because God will conquer those who are against us and bless those who follow His will. Those who mock Him doubt His authority, yet it is sad the wrath that will one day be poured out on them if they don't turn to Him and follow His path.
We can take heart in times of feeling defeated by our enemies, just because of this reading alone. David faced endless enemies, yet God carried Him through. Don't let people get you down, but let God raise you up, protect you, and rescue you. You need only rely on Him.

When have you felt overrun by mockers, enemies, or opposition?



 How are you trusting God to deliver you?




Reading: Matthew 28:1-20

While the power of Christ causes people speculate about what really happened when the tomb was found empty, it can encourage the rest of us. In a bleak time for the followers of Jesus, they are overwhelmed suddenly, by this powerful hope of Jesus rising and commissioning them to go out and share the good news. This is probably the most controversial part of the gospel story - that Jesus was powerful enough to rise from the dead. What it ultimately comes down to is whether or not you believe these words you read, or you reject them. Many have come up with theories and explanations, as we read here about the disciples stealing the body, and have spread to ease people's minds about whether or not Jesus was really God. I suppose that is up to you to decide, but when you have power on your side like what Jesus displays here and many times throughout the gospel in smaller ways, you open yourself up to a fulfilled life in His presence and guidance.
Jesus commissions us to go and share the great news with all, and though this can seem intimidating, we are promised His presence and power as we do. Take heart when the opposition comes your way, especially about your faith.

How do you react to this power? Do you believe it?



What struggles have you faced in sharing the Good News to those around you?



Reading: Exodus 15:1-16:30

No matter how powerful we read God is, we still tend to worry about things. The people went from celebrating God's great power and rescue to complaining and worrying about God providing for them out in the wilderness. We know this is human nature, yet God gives us all kinds of evidence He will come through for us. Moses and Aaron had to deal with complainers and worriers all throughout their journey in the wilderness, no matter how many times God proves Himself to them. So, God provides the people with manna, which literally means "what is it?" The people are to take exactly what they need, and no more. Those who took more lost that extra to maggots and rot. It can be hard to trust God and His provision and we live in a culture that stores up "just in case". But God tells us to trust Him with TODAY and not worry about tomorrow.
I think I will struggle with worry for a long time, if not my whole life. I'm always fretting about something, and longing to be prepared for what is coming. Yet after reading about the power God pours out and the evidence of His provision throughout history, you would think I could let some worries go. Remember God's provision both in Moses' time and for you in your life.

What is something you are currently worrying about?



How can you remember to go to God with these worries and count on Him to provide for you as you need it?




We face much opposition in life, whether it be against mockers of our faith, conflict about our beliefs, or a battle within ourselves against worries. We see great evidence throughout the Bible, however, of God's great power and provision throughout time. We can still count on Him to be with us during those times of opposition and worry. His power and provision are far greater than our battles and worries.

Day 37: Trusting in Unknown Times

Reading: Psalm 18:37-42

It can be scary to think about the future and what we don't know that could be coming. We wish for God to supply us with all we need now so we can be prepared when hurdles come, but many times we have to trust God to bring us that strength and knowledge when the time is right. He provides for us at just the right times. When we dwell on the future and the potential worries of it, we miss current opportunities. David received his strength and power to take on his enemies when the time was right. God will provide for us at the opportune time as well, whether it be preparing to talk to someone about Him, dealing with illness, or a broken relationship.

When has God provided for you at just the right time?




When has worrying about the future prevented you from focusing on the present?




Reading: Matthew 24:32-25:13

Jesus tells us to always be prepared for His coming. We won't know when He is coming, but we can see the signs of His coming. Jesus tells us a parable about 10 bridesmaids who went out to wait for the coming of the bridegroom. Five of them brought extra oil for their lamps, but the other five did not. Since the bridegroom was delayed, the five who didn't have enough oil had to go get more, and while they were gone, the bridegroom showed up.
We can learn from this story to always be prepared to meet Jesus face to face, because you never know when He's coming back. We can't live our lives faithless then be ill-prepared when the hour comes. Always being prepared is what we know to do.

When have you not been prepared for something?



What are you doing to be prepared for Jesus' coming?




Reading: Job 38:1-40:2

We finally reach a little different taste in Job's story, as God comes forth and speaks now after a brutal conversation with Job's friends up till now. We read all of these questions that God puts forth, that we know Job can't answer. The point God is trying to make, especially after his friends just spent so much time giving him false and empty advice, is that we can't know everything. We need to know that God is in control and He is still God when the bad comes. Though this can drive us crazy when hard times come, we need to remember God's promises in our lives. He'll never leave us or forsake us. When we walk with Him, He will fight for us. Even this is better advice than the empty words Job's friends offered.

When was a time your life felt out of control, but you had to remember that God was in control?



Why do we see here that it's ok to not know the answer sometimes?



Our lives are filled with many unknowns. Our pasts are filled with them too, as well as our present. But what we can take from our reading today is that we don't have to know what the Bible doesn't tell us, yet we must cling to what it does. Trusting in unknown times is all you can do when faced with the next step and we can be prepared for what we do know.

Day 34: Dealing with Defeat

Reading: Psalm 18:16-24

Some days just leave you feeling defeated and broken. David faced many of these days as he took on enemy after enemy, not knowing when his life would see freedom again. When we cry out to God though, we can count on Him to show up and rescue us. When we are innocent before Him and strive to follow Him, He will deliver us from the darkness we face. Though His timing may be different from ours, we need to remember that He will not leave us or forsake us. There will be days you feel like the world doesn't care and that you need to solve all of its problems, but remember that God has already overcome the world and its problems. He can show us a way out of our defeat and lead us to a victorious end.

What is a battle you face or have faced that you feel or felt like you couldn't get through?




Who do you know that is facing pit after pit in their life? How can you pray for them and encourage them?




Reading: Matthew 22:15-46

Dealing with the tricks of life and people who try to trap us can be frustrating. We see Jesus deal with these situations brilliantly though. When life seems to be confusing to us, we can follow His example here.
Give to the world what belongs there. Jesus says to "give to Caesar what is Caesar's." As Christians, we have priority to God first, always, but we also have a duty to obey laws and pay taxes. Jesus cleverly answers the religious leaders in baffling them by not allowing Him to be arrested for it, nor make people angry with Him.
We also read how Jesus handles a debate on marriage in heaven, telling the leaders that they are missing the point completely. He calls out their tricks and explains His Father's power to do the impossible. He also points out that this life is not the end all.
Finally we read how Jesus lays out the greatest commandment - love. With this, the leaders stop asking questions and go their own way.
Taking on life with the wisdom of God's Word is important. We may face challenges similar to the ones Jesus faces in this reading, but we can overcome those with knowing the Bible's stance on it. We probably won't know the answer to everyone's questions, but when we have the bottom line, that is all that matters.

Where has life confused you? Where did you turn for answers?



How are you keeping yourself full of wisdom and of God's Word?




Reading: Job 30:1-32:22

We can feel defeated when we face all the struggles of life like Job has and still have no comfort from friends or family. Job is left, blamed for sin by his friends, yet he pleads his case and is blameless before God.
We see Job lay out many things about his life to his friends to prove his innocence before God. Job was pure in heart. Not to say he never sinned, but he confessed them and went through the proper procedure to cleanse himself and his loved ones for that matter.
We need to be sure we are standing upright with God. Life will throw us curve balls and hardship, but Job proves that not all struggles are linked to our sin. Staying right with God helps you to see His light through those tough times though.
Job didn't care about material things. He was not tempted by the ways of the world or by what it had to offer. He stayed in close community with God and walked with Him. We also need to make sure we're not basing our lives around material things and the various temptations the world has to offer.
Job loved his enemies. He never pointed and laughed at them when they faced troubles themselves, but Job kept his mouth shut and didn't gloat. We live in a culture that seeks revenge, yet we have a God that tells us to do otherwise.
And Job gave to the poor and needy. He didn't withhold from them, and worked to help them. God calls us to reach out to the poor many times throughout His Word. He even tells us that what we do for the least of these, we do for Him. Helping others in need sure adds a little significance to your life too.

What does your life look like before God?



Do you have friends that build you up, or tear you down?



There are many times in life that we can walk away from a day feeling rather defeated and down. Whether we are pursued all day by enemies or things that we just hate to do, or if we are thrown some confusion in life and we try to reach out to those in need but can't seem to get the answers straight. Or maybe we have people in our lives that just don't help much when life is rough, we can always count on God to pull us through. He has made a way for us to take on those days that just reek of defeat. Rely on Him and His ways, and He can bring you to days of victory that only come from Him and Him alone.

Day 15: His Many Attributes

Reading: Psalm 9:13-20

We serve a God of both justice and mercy. These things wouldn't seem likely to go hand and hand, but God is a God of impossibility. We see an example of what God can do here when David cries out to God to rescue him from his enemies. He begs for mercy from God, that He may seek justice from his enemies. Here we see that God is able to do both of these things. This is a lot of what He did when His Son went to the cross for us. We needed to serve our punishment for our sin (justice), but God paid the price Himself (mercy). We actually can see this theme weaved all throughout the Bible. The amazing thing about God is that He's full of Justice and Mercy, Truth and Grace, and a combination of other things you wouldn't picture together. He is just God.

What is a time in your life you were seeking both justice and mercy, like David?




What other attributes of God have you found amazing?




Reading: Matthew 12:1-21

We see yet another example of an unlikely combination of God come out here. One of the greatest commandments is the keep the Sabbath Day holy. And we also have read that on the seventh day of creating, God rested. Here we see Jesus get approached a couple times because His disciples were caught working on the Sabbath Day, and Jesus gets questioned for healing a man. Now, many of us will heed this Sabbath Day rule by resting and taking a break from working. In fact, it is good for us. Yet Jesus tells the Pharisees that they are way off here. They could care less for the disciples and Jesus resting for their own good. They want a way to make Jesus wrong. Jesus doesn't pressure us with all of these rules in life. He doesn't put the burden of rules on our shoulders and make it near impossible to do right by Him.
Sometimes life will be daunting. For me, Sunday mornings can be one of the most daunting and even frustrating days of the week. Though I find this unfair at times, I know I'm serving and doing what I need to do to get the job done for the sake of the service. Should I not be working and say "no" now and then...? Yep. But we know that Jesus won't hold it over our heads if we do right by Him. Jesus lived in a ministry that was full of both truth and grace. He approached teaching this way and ministry this way. Jesus kept the truth in His words and stood strongly by them. But when grace was needed (like in the case of feeding the disciples and healing the man) Jesus did that as well, and used truth to back Him up.
If we just use this truth and grace approach to church and to reaching out to people, we could truly do what Jesus did.

When have you felt the need to express grace when others thought it was wrong?



When have you had to stand up for truth, when others felt like being lenient was the right approach?



Reading: Genesis 31:1-55

There is a lot of craziness about this family. When you read Jacob's story and see how hard and unfair Laban was to him throughout the years though, you can't help but feel bad for the guy. Jacob, however, isn't fully innocent either, as his leaving was probably not done in the right way. It was quite unfair of Jacob to take Laban's daughters and grand kids and leave. Not to mention the flocks he manipulated to be his. But we see God again, show mercy to both of these deceivers. Though God told Jacob to run away and flee back to his original land, He still allows Laban to see his family, though with a stern warning. We again see justice and mercy here from God.
We also see God show quite a bit of mercy to the family, considering Rachel stealing idols from her father and lying about hiding them. Maybe she gets that from her dad and Jacob. But God upholds the promise He made with Abraham years ago, and prospers the family line, no matter how deceptive they've become. We have a God of promises and mercy, yet will be stern.

When have you experienced a time in life that seemed just unfair and hard?




Have you ever deceived someone to get your own way? How did that go?




God is quite a marvelous God. Full of justice and mercy, truth and grace, and many other attributes that can both keep you on your feet and bring you to your knees. His ways are always perfect and 100 percent.

Day 13: Our Closest Enemies

Reading: Psalm 9:1-6

We know full well by now that David had many enemies pursuing him. Unfortunately, God never promised us no enemies. He actually tells us to expect enemies and opposition in His Name. (Matthew 10:36) We see David handle his enemies with stride though. He praises God for pulling him from his enemies and glorifies Him for rescuing him.
There are people in the world even today who have to face opposition in very violent ways because of their faith. They trust that God will pull them through and know they shouldn't fear man or death. Though we may not face such opposition in our lives, we should remember that God will pull us through, and praise Him for it. Even if our enemies are those who are closest to us - a family member, friend, coworker, etc. We will face some sort of opposition for our faith. But hold tight to God, for He will pull you through.

What kind of opposition have you faced because of your faith?



How can you pray for people around the world today who face horrible opposition because of their faith?



Reading: Matthew 10:32-11:15

This reading is full of some pretty radical words when it talks about following Christ. First we are told to love anyone else less than God. The exact translation is to "hate", but when translated, it means to "love less". So when Jesus says "if you do not hate your father or mother...you can not be my disciple," He is saying, if you put them ahead of Him. Still, this can be a hard concept to grasp in our worlds. But really, an enemy to your faith in Christ is one that you put priority on over Him. That could be your father, your mother, a sibling, friend, job, habit, etc.
Then Jesus tells us to lose our lives for His sake. Though many people in the world do lose their lives for Him, the translation means to give up ourselves for Him. To live everyday following His will and direction in our lives. When we do this, we will find life.
This leads us right into Jesus telling us to take up our crosses daily for Him. Many have interpreted this verse as carrying Jesus' burden, as He did with the cross, but really, when you are carrying a cross in Jesus' time and culture, you were walking to your death. When Jesus tells us to take up our crosses and follow Him, He is saying to die to ourselves everyday. When you are getting ready to die, you are no longer planning, dreaming, or hoping. When we die to Christ, we give up our plans, dreams and hopes to His plans, dreams and hopes for our lives.
So many things can get between us and Christ. These things become our enemies. Jesus even says that our own families and closest friends can end up being our enemies. The same goes for those things we live for instead of Him.

What is something  or someone you put before Christ?



What does "losing your life" for Him look like to you?



Reading: Genesis 27:1-28:22

Sometimes our own worst enemy can be ourselves. We see how Rebekah and Jacob take matters into their own hands and trick Isaac into giving Jacob the blessing meant for the firstborn, Esau. Because of this, the family is divided and left broken.
We may fall into this same trap when we are determined to get what we want and don't trust God enough to provide for us. In fact, we probably do this more than we would like to admit. Many times we may do with when seeking a spouse, or if we want a promotion at work, or to be financially successful. We may take matters into our own hands and lose credibility to those around us, and even God.
But one thing we can see from this is that God still uses us and holds on to His promises, even when we mess up. He still will grant us blessing and provide for us, even if we've messed up in the past. We see Him come to Jacob after he's flees from home, and tells him he will be blessed as He promised Abraham and Isaac.
Even if you've taken matters into your own hands and feel the regret of it, know that God still can use you to move.

What is something you've failed to trust God in for provision?



How has God still blessed you despite that mess up?



There are many things that can stand between us and God. Straight-up opposition and those who are against us can really take a lot out of us, and crush our faith. Even those who are close to us can come between us and God if we place them before God and decide that they are more important than Him, or if they fail to agree with us and our faith. Or, we can put ourselves in the way of growing in God by not trusting in His provision and timing, and taking matters into our own hands. Just remember to seek Him first above all else, and to trust Him to carve out your path. 

Day 11: Your Incredible Value

Reading: Psalm 9:1-9

We read such beautiful description of God's work here. David is in awe of God's work, and in disbelief of the role God has placed us as man in. Everything else in creation is so marvelous and gorgeous, and David can't believe God even gives us a second look, let alone put us just under Him and above all else. We can see how incredible our value is as David sees the big picture of God's creation. We can be sure that He values us and loves us so.
There isn't any better way to put it than Psalm 9.

What do you find beautiful about God's creation?


If God makes all things marvelous, what does that tell you about you?



Reading: Matthew 9:14-38

Jesus had compassion on all people. He valued their lives and souls. We see Him heal many throughout this reading alone, showing that compassion to all around Him. He knew everyone He came into contact with. Even though a woman who had been bleeding for twelve years simply touched Jesus' robe in the midst of a crowd, Jesus knew. He knew this woman's faith and her heart, and she was healed because of her faith. Jesus had compassion on her.
Jesus also tells us to have compassion on others. He cares about the needy and poor. We read that Jesus feels for the crowds because they are lost. And He tells His disciples that there is much work to be done in reaching those that are lost. He tells His disciples to pray that workers will come to harvest. Jesus cares about our hearts and our souls, as well as our physical health, as we see from Him healing. Our hearts should also be compassionate to to all people, as we live with Christ's love in us.
We are to do as Jesus did and heed the call of being workers of the harvest. He values us. We should value others.

How do stories like Jesus healing all sorts of people make you feel about His love for you?


How can you heed Jesus' call to have compassion on others? Who can use some love today?



Reading: Genesis 24:1-67

We can see the value God places on us in the perfect provision He grants us. Isaac and Rebekah were brought together so perfectly as God had chosen Rebekah just for Isaac. As Abraham's servant prayed for direction and success in finding her, God made it very evident that Rebekah was the perfect wife for Isaac. The whole story just comes together beautifully, as all the signs Abraham's servant asked for were there. Rebekah agrees to go back to meet Isaac and Isaac is deeply in love with her.
Every girl dreams of such a beautiful love story in her life. The problem is that she usually tries to take matters into her own hands and dates any guy she can find to see if he's "the one". Here, we see a perfect match up because of God's timing and work. We should value ourselves deeper than trying to find our match through a "date around" strategy. We should know that God knows who is out there for us. He created us, He knows us better than anyone else (even better than we know ourselves), and He knows what the future holds. Why not let Him provide for us?
Our value is greater than what we give ourselves credit for. Why not take the pressure off our own shoulders and let God take the reins in our lives? If we know how much He loves us, and we tell people how much He loves us, why don't we trust Him?

What kind of provision has God placed in your life that was divine timing?



What do you need to let go of and let God take over in life?



We are valued immensely. God created humans just below Him and above all other creation. He sent His Son to die for us and our mess-ups. We can see over and over again in Jesus' ministry how much we are loved by God. Jesus had compassion on the people, and called us to show compassion on others as well. Yet there are times when we insist on taking matters into our own hands and not trusting God to provide and take care of us. But we can learn from Isaac and Rebekah's story that He cares deeply about our needs and His timing is always perfect. You are loved and valued by a wonderful God!