Watch Out! Keep Alert!

On 2023-11-27 By Ed AlgreenIn A Lamp unto My Path, Adoration, Answered Prayer, Appreciation, Awesome God, Beyond Description, Blessing, Celebrate God, Needs, Praise, Praise-worthy, Recognize God, WorshipLeave a comment

DATE POSTED: Monday, November 27, 2023, and I was blessed to be at Florida Hunting Adventures, Okeechobee, FL when God inspired me to prepare this devotional. My Footnote will tell you how to find, read or listen to any and all episodes that I have shared over the years.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE FROM: New Living Translation (NLT) IS FOUND IN Luke 21:25-27; 34-36;

THE BIBLE TEXT IS: “And there will be strange signs in the sun, moon, and stars. And here on earth the nations will be in turmoil, perplexed by the roaring seas and strange tides. People will be terrified at what they see coming upon the earth, for the powers in the heavens will be shaken. Then everyone will see the Son of Man coming on a cloud with power and great glory.
“Watch out! Don’t let your hearts be dulled by carousing and drunkenness, and by the worries of this life. Don’t let that day catch you unaware, like a trap. For that day will come upon everyone living on the earth.Keep alert at all times. And pray that you might be strong enough to escape these coming horrors and stand before the Son of Man.”

APPLICATION OF THE WORD: If the local television station had given a warning like this about the course and/or danger of a nearby weather system, we would close down our businesses and follow his/her instruction without further delay. In today’s Scripture, Jesus shared with those closest to Him, His disciples, a similar warning to that given by the Father to Daniel – see Daniel 7:13. As most readers and listeners may be aware, the words of Jesus were recorded in the Bible so that His warnings might also be extended to others who are close to Him and make every effort to listen to His Word. So, what then shall we do? The warning has been extended to us. Are we satisfied to just sit in our corner and gloat over having our lives in order, and ready for the coming of the Son of Man – Jesus? Is that what you would do if you heard the above warning from the weatherman? In the case of weather-related storms, our family, friends, coworkers and acquaintances have become pretty accustomed to listening to warnings via radio or television. However, if you are looking at individuals anything like I am, you will conclude that many never attend church regularly anymore, and I strongly believe that even fewer read their Bibles. So where will their warning come from, if you refuse to pass along the warnings such as given to us today by Jesus? Notice that Jesus knew exactly what would distract the unsaved and perhaps even Christians, for He knows in advance what we, and/or our family and friends will resort to for entertainment, sports, and recreation. Notice how ‘Thanksgiving’ has become ‘Turkey Day’ rather than a time of thanksgiving for our many blessings? Notice how Christmas has become more about the commercialism and gift buying, rather than worshipping our newborn King? Sundays have become more about our only day to sleep in, or go to the beach, or to a theme park, than finding our way to the house of God to celebrate our risen Lord. It seems like we are ignoring the warnings from Jesus still today. He emphasized how much He loves us, and I feel like we believe and appreciate Him for that. He said that He would never leave us alone, and I believe we tend to call on Him when we feel like no one else is listening, or cares. He showed us how miraculous He is, and we tend to trust in Him for that, especially when there seems to be no way out medically for us or for a loved one. But, precious friends, we see the same trouble all over the world that Jesus referred to, and we see the many, many changes in weather conditions and unusual storms like He warned us about, shouldn’t we truly take Him serious about being ready and staying alert for His unannounced return? You may never get to read this devotional, because Jesus may have called you out of this world before I could get it online, or He could return before you totally absorb everything I am reminding you about. What will be your excuse be when Jesus asks you about your decision regarding eternity? Excuses won’t work for Jesus, because He not only knows our heart, but He also knows our very thoughts. Please friends, don’t delay. Without further delay, prepare to meet your Maker. The timing might be sooner than you think.

PRAYER BECAUSE OF THE IMPACT OF TODAY’S SCRIPTURE: Your patience oh Lord is more than we could ever appreciate or duplicate, and we are so thankful. We read about it in the Old Testament, and Your patience seems multiplied in the New Testament and in our current environment of selfish greed and excessive efforts to enjoy ‘life’ just a little bit more. Should You come before I could complete my thoughts in this devotional, I trust that You will find a heart that is totally surrendered to You and longing to be with my Savior and Lord in Heaven. Please give my audience more of an urgency to do the same, and may we all be found ready and longing to be with You and the Father. Please forgive us for allowing the enemy to distract us from You, even though You are known for Your love and sacrifice, all for our benefit. With a greater sense of urgency, we could help others understand the urgency of the hour, but as I call on the One who is far greater than the advisory, I ask that You also soften the hearts of my audience to do the same. May Your kingdom come, and Your will be done, here on earth, and especially in our lives. AMEN!

FOOTNOTE: There’s another page on my website, entitled ‘To Know Jesus’. If you have been challenged to make a decision today after reading or listening to this devotional, please go to this page, or speak with a local Bible Teaching Pastor, or contact me at NuggetsFromGodsWord@outlook.com. Please allow someone to pray with you and give you help and/or encouragement as you begin or continue your walk with Jesus. If you would like to read more of my devotionals, or subscribe for a daily email containing each new devotional, please go online to NuggetsFromGodsWord.org. For my podcast, go online to Apple Podcasts or, using the Apple Podcast app, simply search for Nuggets From God’s Word to hear more episodes, or click ‘Follow’ to be notified of Podcast updates. Friends, please allow me to encourage you to find a church home nearby your home and attend as frequently as you could. Get to know God and allow His people to encourage and strengthen you in your Christian walk, while making every effort to be a blessing to them. God is at work among His people! Please consider growing in your faith, as you worship with fellow believers!

Accurate & Timely Advice from Someone Who Cares

On 2023-11-25 By Ed AlgreenIn A Lamp unto My Path, Adoration, Answered Prayer, Appreciation, Awesome God, Beyond Description, Blessing, Celebrate God, Needs, Praise, Praise-worthy, Recognize God, WorshipLeave a comment

DATE POSTED: Saturday, November 25, 2023, and I was blessed to be at Florida Hunting Adventures, Okeechobee, FL when God inspired me to prepare this devotional. My Footnote will tell you how to find, read or listen to any and all episodes that I have shared over the years.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE FROM: The Voice (VOICE) IS FOUND IN Isaiah 8:20

THE BIBLE TEXT IS: Go to God’s teaching and His testimony to guide your thoughts and behavior! If any response disagrees with the word of God, then it’s muddling and wrong and not the least bit illuminating.

APPLICATION OF THE WORD: In much the same way that Isaiah was aware of men turning to fortune tellers, astrologers and or attempting to call up the dead for a good word about what they were facing, it is no different to what men still do today. I bet by now you are sitting on the edge of your seat wondering where I could possibly be going with this devotional, as current-day practices are so different, right? And although I needn’t get into the particulars of what I just referenced, I believe that all readers and/or listeners will agree that things must have been weird in Isaiah’s day, as it is challenging at best to think about mankind turning to such mediums for advice. But friends, I want us to get realistic, based on what we see today. Daily horoscopes are still one of the more popular ‘turn-to’ mediums for many to patiently wait for each day, as it tends to try and project our course for the future. Fortune tellers, or palm readers seem to have an office established in almost every city, plus I understand they are available 24/7 via telephone. Why? Well, for a fee they will make an effort to help you see into the future and try to clear up any frustrations you may have about what tomorrow may hold. Really?? Isn’t it interesting how many will be content in paying hard-earned money, and go out of their way, just to hear advice from a stranger that has no link to your Creator and Lord, rather than just seeking the answer from His Book? Look at what Isaiah said, under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. Isn’t it obvious that the One who created heaven and earth, the One who designed and molded mankind in His own image, the One who provided the Bible for us under His direct supervision and wisdom, the One who is directing our path here on earth, and the One who made possible the road for our eternity, that it’s Him who loves and cares about us each and every day, plus through eternity with the Father, Son and Holy Spirit? Why would mankind, you and I, turn our heads away from such a ‘sure thing’, and instead seek worldly wisdom or direction from a stranger with no idea of what God has in store for us tomorrow? It is so unfortunate that instead of mankind learning right from wrong from our Master, and from the mistakes made by our forefathers spoken of in the Bible, that instead we are repeating the same mistakes, practicing the same, or even worse wickedness, and disregarding our Father far worse that our forefathers ever dreamed of. Dear and precious friends, please consider joining with me in returning to our roots – to God – our Creator, Lord, Savior, Friend, Healer, and eternal provider of all good things; the church – the place referred to as the ‘bride of Christ’, a place referred to by all mankind as ‘the house of God’ and a training station for the children of God; and the Bible – a book of instruction and promise from Almighty God, a place where we can find answers to all of life’s dilemmas and a place where we could be reminded of the eternal love of our Creator. Join me dear friends in rejoicing over this reminder by Isaiah today, that answers to life’s most challenging questions, and the hope, that what lies ahead for us, far exceeds any happiness we will find on earth – these, and the comforting words of our faithful God are all found in His Book – the Bible. If I can provide one or more Bibles for you and your family, please use my contact information in the FOOTNOTE to let me know. It will be my pleasure to share the words of my Master with anyone that asks.

PRAYER BECAUSE OF THE IMPACT OF TODAY’S SCRIPTURE: Lord Jesus, thank You for being such a bold and important part of the awesome plan created and put in place for those who surrender their life to Your lordship. Please Lord, open the eyes of Your people and show us the joy of Your salvation. We whine and complain about so much that has, and is going wrong in our society, but we are sitting on the Book of all books, the One that contains Your words, and Your instructions. The answers to all of life’s quandaries were prepared and properly recorded by Your messengers, under Your direct inspiration, for us to follow. Please Lord, clear up the mind-block of Your children, for it’s not necessary to travel hundreds of miles, or meet with people with reported special abilities, for You are available to converse with us anytime we desire, and Your instructions are prerecorded in Your Book for our peace of mind, if we obey them and follow them. Forgive us Lord for thinking that we have a better plan, Your plan is the only one for life today and the life that follows. I love You Lord, and I seek Your face as I look to You with praise and thanksgiving for all that You have done and promised to do now and throughout eternity. Please encourage Your saints with the words and intent of this devotional, and especially the words of Isaiah. AMEN!

Your Reaction To Seeing God

On 2023-11-182023-11-19 By Ed AlgreenIn A Lamp unto My Path, Adoration, Answered Prayer, Appreciation, Awesome God, Beyond Description, Blessing, Celebrate God, Needs, Praise, Praise-worthy, Recognize God, WorshipLeave a comment

DATE POSTED: Saturday, November 18th, 2023, and I was blessed to be at Royal Floridian Resort, Ormond Beach, FL when God inspired me to prepare this devotional. My Footnote will tell you how to find, read or listen to any and all episodes that I have shared over the years.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE FROM THE Amplified Bible (AMP) IS FOUND IN Isaiah 6:1; 5;

THE BIBLE TEXT IS: In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw [in a vision] the Lord sitting on a throne, high and exalted, with the train of His royal robe filling the [most holy part of the] temple.
Then I said, “Woe is me! For I am ruined, because I am a man of [ceremonially] unclean lips, and I live among a people of unclean lips; For my eyes have seen the King, the Lord of hosts.”

APPLICATION OF THE WORD: I know my readers/listeners will want to get me straight on one point right at the very beginning of this devotional: you are still alive, and have therefore never seen God’, right? To which I world respond: ‘but how is that any different to the prophet Isaiah’? And because of that, I believe there may be more to this particular Scripture than just breezing through a quick reading of how blessed Isaiah was, and to see his response to what he saw. The first thing God drew my attention to was that Isaiah was careful to mention that it was the year his mentor, King Uzziah, died. Could it be that as long as the king was alive, Isaiah was content in knowing what he stood for and in seeing his godly actions as he led his people? Could it be that Isaiah made himself content in seeing his king respond to the goodness of God, while feeling like he could never be that worthy, or blessed? I believe that we are way too comfortable in thinking that the blessings of Almighty God is for your spouse , or your pastor, or the evangelist that you watch on TV every week, and through encouraging them or possibly praying for them, you tend to feel blessed. Perhaps going to church and hearing the preacher talk about the goodness of God has become enough for you. But what if you were able to present yourself boldly before God, so that He may love on you and chat with you about your good, bad and indifference? Yes, your encounter may also be in a vision, but how do you suppose you would take that visit with God? Isaiah was a prophet of God, yet he felt inadequate and unworthy, but I believe it was a key marker in his life that he probably always referred back to. For example, having recently celebrated my 48th wedding anniversary recently, I had some key words of advice for a young couple about to be married today. Imagine talking to a discouraged Christian, or an unbeliever, about your encounter with the Creator of the Universe, and how, like Isaiah, your emotions of being with God just took over in echoes of praise as you were so aware of His holiness and His love for you and all mankind! Notice how Satan provoked Isaiah to think about all that he was, all that he said over time, all that his people were doing, and all that might separate him from the love of God. Friends, that’s Satan’s job, to distract and pull you away from God. When you surrender your life to the lordship of Jesus Christ, He forgives you of your sin – past, present and future. In fact, He is so serious about adopting you as his very own son/daughter that He promised to even prepare a home for you in heaven where you will also be with He and the Father for all eternity! Friends, with that kind of Heavenly Father, is there any wonder that Isaiah was in awe at seeing His veil that filled the temple, and then to later compare that holiness to what he knew his life looked like? You might be tempted to do the same today dear friend, but please be reminded God not only created you, but He also loved you enough that He provided the one and only means of you joining Him in glory when life here on earth has ended. Yes, He is that holy, that awesome, that loving and that mighty, but as one covered by the blood of His Son, Jesus, God sees you as one of His own. God said that your sins are separated, placed in His ‘Junk/deleted Files’ when He forgives you, so please don’t even try to feel guilty about them anymore. You are as white as snow in His eyes, so there is no need to think otherwise!

PRAYER BECAUSE OF THE IMPACT OF TODAY’S SCRIPTURE: Lord Jesus, like Isaiah, I am amazed by your holiness, and although I have frequent communications with You, I can’t imagine what my reaction would be if I came face-to-face with You in person, or in a vision. However, I am eternally thankful that my sins are forgiven and that I am looked on as Your righteous son. But Lord, I’m afraid that some might dare to read this devotional who is not as sure about their eternal destiny as I am. Please use something in this simple devotional to get their attention, and please soften their hearts to welcome Your input so that they may recognize You and Your precious gift made available to them through Jesus, Your Son. AMEN!

How To Avoid Drifting Away

On 2023-11-17 By Ed AlgreenIn A Lamp unto My Path, Adoration, Answered Prayer, Appreciation, Awesome God, Beyond Description, Blessing, Celebrate God, Needs, Praise, Praise-worthy, Recognize God, WorshipLeave a comment

DATE POSTED: Friday, November 17, 2023, and I was blessed to be at Royal Floridian Resort, Ormond Beach, FL when God inspired me to prepare this devotional. My Footnote will tell you how to find, read or listen to any and all episodes that I have shared over the years.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE FROM THE Living Bible (TLB) IS FOUND IN Hebrews 2:1-3

THE BIBLE TEXT IS: So we must listen very carefully to the truths we have heard, or we may drift away from them. For since the messages from angels have always proved true and people have always been punished for disobeying them, what makes us think that we can escape if we are indifferent to this great salvation announced by the Lord Jesus himself and passed on to us by those who heard him speak?

APPLICATION OF THE WORD: Should this devotional be addressed to a boater, I’m sure he would first think of this as advice on how best to secure his boat, so that it won’t drift away while he’s asleep, or otherwise busy. If to a banker, he might look at this as advice on how to avoid seeing his bank drift away from the ‘A’ rating received from regulators during their last visit. To a married couple, this message should encourage them to seek ways to avoid drifting away from the love and excitement they felt for each other on their wedding day, and for 10, 20 or 30 years later, for they may have ‘drifted’ from that excitement if they allowed other distractions into their individual lives. And so it is in our Christian walk. God gave us the full picture, including what it will look like in heaven and who all will be there with us. However, God also gave us free will to follow Him as Lord of our lives – just like when we accepted Him, or to actually drift away from Him and be miserable souls here on earth. This particular Scripture was given to believers who may had given in to the leadership of, and trust in, angels. Often it’s the very things that sound angelic or that provided positive outlooks in the Bible, that Satan will use to confuse us and/or cause us to drift away from the direct leadership of the Holy Spirit, or distract us from the commitment we may have made to our Lord and Savior many years ago. Friends, I believe this Scripture is intended to challenge us to stay true to God’s Word, always cement a close bond with our Savior, and be determined to let nothing come between us and our Lord. Some married men may kid around and say that they told their wives on their wedding day that he loved them, and they don’t need to keep repeating that, unless something changes! Unfortunately, some Christians may tend to think that way about their salvation. But let’s all be reminded today that on the day we committed our lives to Jesus as our Lord, we entered into a covenant relationship with Him. We basically committed to obeying His commands, His Word, and to live life very much like He showed us through His Word. Because we have new challenges every day, our relationship with Jesus will require speaking with, and hearing from Jesus every day. It’s what comes in through our ears and eyes that fills our heart for output. Many can give us very detailed information about their favorite sports figure, or team, because of their interest in that sport, team or individual. Perhaps if we were sold out to Jesus in a similar way, others might start recognizing in whom we believe, and to whom we owe our lives. Salvation is not a one-time decision that allows you to check one more thing off your to-do list. Instead, it’s a day and time that you decided to turn your life completely around, leave your old life behind, and start in a new direction following Jesus and His ways. In marriage, I told my wife that I would commit myself to her til death do us part. In our relationship with Jesus Christ, may we commit ourselves to Him til death brings us even closer together in heaven, and may that commitment be so passionate that we will ask God to help us ward off daily distractions that could otherwise cause us to drift away from Him. For those Satan-sized distractions, we need a God-sized plan that only He can achieve for us and through us. Walking haphazardly into His presence a few times per year, or even once a week in public worship, can hardly be considered daily and hourly communion with Him.

PRAYER BECAUSE OF THE IMPACT OF TODAY’S SCRIPTURE: Lord Jesus, thank You for being so sacrificial, loving and caring about us on a minute by minute basis. Please forgive us for giving in to the ways of this world, led by the advisory, that consistently pulls us away from You and Your perfect will for us. Satan is very much the source of our ‘drifting’ away from Your will. Lord, You created us in Your image, so I can only believe that you knew full well that we would be weak and ineffective without You prominently in our hearts and lives. Forgive us Lord for wanting to show our independence and thinking that we could handle the likes of Satan and his wicked army on our own. AMEN!

Examine The Heart from Which You Give

On 2023-11-162023-11-16 By Ed AlgreenIn A Lamp unto My Path, Adoration, Answered Prayer, Appreciation, Awesome God, Beyond Description, Blessing, Celebrate God, Needs, Praise, Praise-worthy, Recognize God, WorshipLeave a comment

DATE POSTED: Thursday, November 16, 2023, and I was blessed to be at Royal Floridian Resort, Ormond Beach, FL when God inspired me to prepare this devotional. My Footnote will tell you how to find, read or listen to any and all episodes that I have shared over the years.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE FROM THE Living Bible (TLB) IS FOUND IN Luke 21:1-4

THE BIBLE TEXT IS: As he stood in the Temple, he was watching the rich tossing their gifts into the collection box. Then a poor widow came by and dropped in two small copper coins. “Really,” he remarked, “this poor widow has given more than all the rest of them combined. For they have given a little of what they didn’t need, but she, poor as she is, has given everything she has.”

APPLICATION OF THE WORD: Normally this Scripture will upset the masses today, because they are so sure that the gospel preacher or teacher is about to beg for more money from them! Fortunately, there is no need to set up your defenses, for that is not an issue for me, since I am a layperson just like most of my readers and/or listeners. Friends, I believe that as you take time to meditate on this devotional, and the Word of God in particular, you will see pass financial giving or tithing to the church, even though it is necessary, needed, and commanded by God to continue the ministry of the Gospel. But I want to encourage you to particularly look at the heart of each one mentioned in this story relayed by Jesus, and try to identify thge attitude of your heart, for it will be evident as we look at this together.
** For the rich who gave: can you see what may have been hearts filled with: obligation; regret; reservation; promoting self; and/or advertising their generosity?
** For the poor old lady who gave: Perhaps we could see a heart filled with: love; generosity; reciprocal giving; and/or a desire and determination to give, regardless how her remaining obligations might be met?
Now, I would encourage you to consider the person whose heart emulates:
-*- The rich in our story – As a church leader, can you call on this group to serve with you in ministry? Don’t you suppose they might wonder what’s in it for them? Will their business be recognized in newsletters or in the pulpit? Will their donation be tax deductible? Could they mention their religious giving through their advertising so the public might know how generous they are? But for…
-*- The poor old lady who hardly had enough to get by – I believe she was one that only considered her net income after tithing, even if it meant not having enough to meet her personal needs without God’s intervention. I believe she was ever so aware of her endless blessings from God, regardless of how great or small they were. I believe that she was just as generous with her time as she was in her giving. I believe she probably looked for the needs in others, while others may have concentrated on ways to gouge them for additional profits. I believe that she was a praying lady, for she realized that her needs were met by God alone, and not because of any good thing that she might do. I believe that if there was a way for her to give privately without anyone seeing her, she would have chosen that method of giving, for she knew that God saw her generosity, even though others may have ignorantly looked down on her minimal gift.
Friends, I further believe that God smiles as He sees us giving from a heart of love, sincerity, honesty and obedience to His Word and not just out of obligation or for public recognition, praise and admiration. I believe that the same heart that gives in this manner will also look deeply into God’s Word and make every effort to love Him in other ways – such as sharing His love with others and telling them about His sacrifice made so that they might also have eternal life. Let’s always remember that it’s from the heart that we freely give, love unconditionally, and choose to live like our Lord so that others might be drawn to Him.

PRAYER BECAUSE OF THE IMPACT OF TODAY’S SCRIPTURE: Lord Jesus, I don’t believe that You did anything grudgingly or for selfish reasons, but instead for our good and the glory of the Father. The attitude that we adopt and practice each day determines how much of You that we’ve allowed in, and how much our lives are impacted by You. While the world has no reason to know or understand our motivating factors, I pray wholeheartedly that they will see a picture of You and know that Your Holy Spirit truly lives inside of us to guide and direct our every decision, and the path that we travel. Please Lord, touch the hearts and lives of those that will meditate on this devotional today, so that they may go and be a blessing to others. AMEN!

Thankful for Parents & Trusting God As You Become One

On 2023-11-14 By Ed AlgreenIn A Lamp unto My Path, Adoration, Answered Prayer, Appreciation, Awesome God, Beyond Description, Blessing, Celebrate God, Needs, Praise, Praise-worthy, Recognize God, WorshipLeave a comment

DATE POSTED: Tuesday, November 14, 2023, and I was blessed to be at Royal Floridian Resort, Ormond Beach, FL when God inspired me to prepare this devotional. My Footnote will tell you how to find, read or listen to any and all episodes that I have shared over the years.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE FROM THE Amplified Bible (AMP) IS FOUND IN Proverbs 19:13-14

THE BIBLE TEXT IS: A foolish (ungodly) son is destruction to his father, and the contentions of a [quarrelsome] wife are like a constant dripping [of water]. House and wealth are the inheritance from fathers, but a wise, understanding, and sensible wife is [a gift and blessing] from the Lord.

APPLICATION OF THE WORD: As a youngster who determines that we now know everything and could conquer the world, we may tend to ignore what our parents taught us, sacrificed for us, and loved us through when we are totally dependent on them. For those who have read my devotionals for a while, you will recall me saying that God’s Word contains everything about life that we might expect to encounter over our lifetime, so of course God knew how a child’s unappreciative and rebellious attitude would impact the heart of a father and mother. We must always avoid looking at what the author of a book in the Bible may have been going through, and always remember that the authors of God’s Holy Word were totally inspired and led by God himself when delivering His message for us. So I would encourage all those who have allowed Satan to divide you and your parents, to take note of what God says in our verses today – this completely destroys the spirit, hope, expectation, and desire for a parent. I know what some may say, I just don’t know what caused you to act the way that you do, right? But, my friend, please allow me to point you to the Scripture again today and examine vs 13 to try and find where God allowed Solomon to share the exclusions for this verse. You see, I believe that God will question you on what you have done with your life, not on the excuses you give with reasons on why you acted the way you did. Be reminded also that although God may question you, He already knows the answers, because He knows your very heart and the thoughts that bubble up inside of you. Another excellent piece of advice is given to the young man in search of a good wife. Notice there was no mention of the school that has the most hot girls, or the nightclubs that your friends pound on you to attend with them, but it’s a matter of relationship with, and trust in, Almighty God. It is He who knows way more about that girl that crossed your path and got your attention. But, to know the will of God, you must be in relationship with Him – listening to Him through His Word, and sharing your heart with Him through prayer. It’s not about running to the preacher and have him communicate with God for you, it’s way more powerful than that – this is something that you will benefit from because of your faith, your trust, your hope and your relationship with the God of this universe. For He’s the only one who has inside information for those who have an inside relationship with Him, and I believe He is anxious to bless you with all you deserve, if you allow Him to.

PRAYER BECAUSE OF THE IMPACT OF TODAY’S SCRIPTURE: Lord Jesus, I am eternally thankful for You, my Savior and my almighty Father and God. I am also thankful for the parents you blessed me with and especially thankful for the Christian wife that You have placed by my side to love and uphold me through every phase of life. However, based on everything that I hear outside of my home, I believe that many readers may not feel as blessed and appreciative. Please Lord, speak with Your children once again today. Draw them to Yourself and not only open their hardened hearts, but also expand their minds to see You and all that You have blessed them with. Many homes are divided, and because of this our younger generation seems more determined to do ‘their own thing’ instead of what You might lead them into. Please draw us to the cross on a daily basis so that we might be reminded of Your love and sacrifice for us. You’ve paved the way for us already, please direct us to be obedient and faithful followers, so that we will always have reason to praise You and lift Your name on high. AMEN!

Jesus, Our Forever Savior

On 2023-11-13 By Ed AlgreenIn A Lamp unto My Path, Adoration, Answered Prayer, Appreciation, Awesome God, Beyond Description, Blessing, Celebrate God, Needs, Praise, Praise-worthy, Recognize God, WorshipLeave a comment

DATE POSTED: Sunday, November 12, 2023, and I was blessed to be at Advent Christian Village, Dowling Park, FL when God inspired me to prepare this devotional. My Footnote will tell you how to find, read or listen to any and all episodes that I have shared over the years.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE FROM THE Living Bible (TLB) IS FOUND IN Hebrews 1:10-12

THE BIBLE TEXT IS: God also called him “Lord” when he said, “Lord, in the beginning you made the earth, and the heavens are the work of your hands. They will disappear into nothingness, but you will remain forever. They will become worn out like old clothes, and some day you will fold them up and replace them. But you yourself will never change, and your years will never end.”

APPLICATION OF THE WORD: How many times have you watched a movie and heard a young man challenged by a girl’s father to not play with his girl’s heart by pretending you love her and committed to always be there for her? Perhaps you have even heard this in your personal life, or used it in the case of your own precious daughter. The Holy Spirit really touched my heart as I read this Scripture, for I felt like I was reminded that I must never stand by and allow Satan to challenge me through one of his earthly agents about the power and eternal status of my Lord. Additionally, I hear so much emphasis being placed on angels, versus the undying and eternal hope found in the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Further along in verse 14 the writer of Hebrews clarifies the purpose of angels – ‘they are servants – spirits sent to care for people who will inherit salvation’ (NLT). For everyone that will come across this devotional, my prayer is that many would have already heard about, met, and accepted Jesus as Lord of your life, and that like me, this serves as one more reminder of the awesome power, availability and love of the One who sacrificed life itself so that we might live as children assured of our eternal home with the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Of course, I also pray that God will speak through His Holy Spirit to many who have yet to accept Jesus as Lord. I believe that you will find hope and peace in the promises of my God, as you are reminded of the importance of Jesus to every man, woman and child, and how unique His promises are, compared to the security you may find in your parents, spouse, siblings, pastor or other church officials; and yes, even greater than angels, which you may have heard lots about over your years already spent here on earth. Friends, no matter what you may have heard from anyone else during your lifetime, please allow me to point you towards the one and ONLY Savior. In addition to our Lord and Savior, God also left us His Book of Instruction – the Bible. He inspired men of old to write about His wisdom, His love, His sacrifice and His promises so that we wouldn’t have to worry about which denomination, or pastor, or friend is correct in what they tell us. Time and time again we probably experienced where someone very precious to us gave in to Satan and totally destroyed our hope in everything they taught us. But praise God, we have a source document that is the truth, the way to light our path, and the wisdom to understand everything about our Lord and all that He expects of us. I have always heard new parents say after the birth of their first child ‘I sure wish there was a book of instructions for this precious gift given to us’! Well, guess what? God gave us exactly that for life itself! But it does no good gathering dust in your library or on your bookshelves. Read it every day, and then read it some more when you are searching for direction or answers from our Master. God created us, and He knows everything we will need in life so that we may stay true to Him and expect to live with Him in glory for all eternity. Our Creator is an awesome God, and He gifted His Son to all who would believe on Him for the duration of our time here on earth. And the gift goes on, because we will also inherit an eternal home where we will live and reign with God the Father; Jesus, His Son; and the Holy Spirit. So when I refer to our ‘forever Savior’ in my title, know that He existed before us, He is very much alive during our lifetime, and we will join Him in glory for all eternity – no beginning and no end!! There is – No God Like Our God!

PRAYER BECAUSE OF THE IMPACT OF TODAY’S SCRIPTURE: Lord, You are good and I am blessed that Your mercies are everlasting! Both sets of my grandparents, and my parents have all been called on to glory. My siblings are many miles from me, but praise God, I am reminded that You, oh Lord, are always with me and You will always be God over every living creature. What more do I need? I am concerned over the lack of communion my friends and family have with You, so I pray that You will make Yourself known to them once again today and that You will tender their hearts to accept You and commit themselves to a lasting relationship with You. I believe that many of my readers and/or listeners will also identify with my concern, because of their own personal relationships, so I ask You Lord to please intervene in their lives and draw them to Yourself. Thank You Lord for accepting me as Your son and assuring me of my future home in glory with You. Please don’t allow anyone to pass over this devotional without first finding You and committing themselves to You. AMEN!

It’s All About God

On 2023-11-09 By Ed AlgreenIn A Lamp unto My Path, Adoration, Answered Prayer, Appreciation, Awesome God, Beyond Description, Blessing, Celebrate God, Needs, Praise, Praise-worthy, Recognize God, WorshipLeave a comment

DATE POSTED: Wednesday, November 8, 2023, and I was blessed to be at Valdosta, Georgia, when God inspired me to prepare this devotional. My Footnote will tell you how to find, read or listen to any and all episodes that I have shared over the years.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE FROM THE New International Version (NIV) IS FOUND IN Luke 20:46-47

THE BIBLE TEXT IS: “Beware of the teachers of the law. They like to walk around in flowing robes and love to be greeted with respect in the marketplaces and have the most important seats in the synagogues and the places of honor at banquets. They devour widows’ houses and for a show make lengthy prayers. These men will be punished most severely.”

APPLICATION OF THE WORD: Although I have never been an ambassador of a country, it is my understanding that such an individual represents their home-country in whatever country they are sent to serve. They are called upon to speak on behalf of their home-country, and they are looked upon as an image of the same. For those of us who have accepted Jesus as Lord, I believe the Bible teaches us to go out and represent Jesus in our communities, with the intent of encouraging those that we come into contact with, to also want to know and accept Jesus as Lord. I believe it is obvious from the way that Jesus spoke in our verses today, that these ‘teachers of the law’ may look, sound, and act like religious leaders in some ways, but they are obviously not His ambassadors. I see lessons in this for spiritual leaders today, and for church goers who might be caught in the trap of waiting for their spiritual leaders to lead them in worship to our Creator. In my early years of life, I remember it was easy to identify our religious leaders, and they generally earned our respect by the way they carried themselves in dress and character. However, I have earned a totally new respect for my pastors today, who go about their way, whether at the church office, visiting parishioners in hospital, or greeting someone at a restaurant. Seldom do we hear them introduce themselves as Pastor ______, Reverend _______, or Doctor (of Divinity) _____, but instead as Peter, John or Paul. It is just as important today as it was in the days of fancy religious titles, to look at the heart and the sincerity of the ‘ambassador of Jesus Christ’. In my opinion, earned respect is much more important than flaunting your professional title, or through a certain dress code. Friends, I believe that Jesus wanted His first ambassadors, and us, to understand that whatever we do in His name must be done for His glory, and not our own. Perhaps we should more often follow in the example of one pastor that I had, who vowed never to wear a new suit that attracted so many compliments from his parishioners that it made him question if they heard anything at all that he preached on that morning! Personally, I would much prefer hearing a fellow believer recognize Jesus in me, rather than to see the reaction on their face, should I tell them that I am a believer. So, to our spiritual leaders I believe I would remind them to never forget who it is that they represent. As an ambassador, they are always aiming to live, talk and act incognito, just like the one they represent. If others see anything other than Jesus in what you are doing or saying, then you have missed the point of Christian ministry. To those who are like me, a believer in Jesus Christ, we must look to Jesus daily, just like a young bird is perched on a branch with it’s mouth opened, waiting to be fed. We do this through conversation with God – in prayer; looking for the will of God – through intense meditation on His Word; and through fellowship with other believers who are seeking to imitate Jesus in every walk of their daily life. When we step outside the bounds of these things, we may give the impression that we can’t wait on God to do His work, or that we could do life as good, or better on our own. Jesus said in verse 27 that those teachers and leaders who misrepresent Him and mislead others will be punished worse than everyone else. It’s all about God, dear friends, look for ways to lift Him up personally and regularly. Through deliberate encouragement to others, ensure that your time here on earth is not in vain.

PRAYER BECAUSE OF THE IMPACT OF TODAY’S SCRIPTURE: Lord Jesus, we thank You for creating us in Your image, and reminding us through Your Word that the lives of believers, Your children, are to be devoted to worshipping and honoring You. With heaven as our eternal destiny, there is nothing more valuable left for us to gain here on earth, outside of spreading your Good News about Your wonderful love and promise. Please Lord, help us to keep our eyes fixed on You so that others will experience Your wonderful presence when in our midst. By glorified in us today, Lord Jesus. AMEN!

Worship Your Creator, Not Your Idols

On 2023-11-07 By Ed AlgreenIn A Lamp unto My Path, Adoration, Answered Prayer, Appreciation, Awesome God, Beyond Description, Blessing, Celebrate God, Needs, Praise, Praise-worthy, Recognize God, WorshipLeave a comment

DATE POSTED: Tuesday, November 7, 2023, and I was blessed to be at Valdosta, Georgia when God inspired me to prepare this devotional. My Footnote will tell you how to find, read or listen to any and all episodes that I have shared over the years.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE FROM The Voice (VOICE) IS FOUND IN Isaiah 2:8; 11;

THE BIBLE TEXT IS: Their land is full of worthless idols. They worship their own creations; They bow down to what they have made, bought, and sold.
The bubble of human pride will be burst; the arrogant will be pulled down from their pedestals. Then, finally, the Eternal, no one and nothing else, will be the center of attention, lifted up in high esteem.

APPLICATION OF THE WORD: When a king looks out over his nation, perhaps he sees his subjects who will earn lots of money and pay lots of taxes, to give him more to boast about before those leaders who are looking to take over additional lands. When a pastor looks out over his church membership, perhaps he sees loving brothers and sisters who pray for him every day, and for the success of God’s ministry among the lost of their community. Because of the inevitable whining and complaining of some members, the pastor might also see the ‘wolves in sheep clothing’ that the Bible refers to, and he is quickly reminded of the deep prayer necessary for his sheep. A father will look out over his precious children and see only perfection, because they came from his seed! But I believe the Holy Spirit deeply convicted me as I read this Scripture today, for I was reminded that just as the prophet Isaiah was blessed to see the condition of the people of the house of Jacob and the awful condition of their souls, based on their behavior, so our God is able to look upon His children and perhaps sob over what He is seeing. You see, I believe that Isaiah was given a sneak preview into the full picture that God sees. It seems evident from Isaiah’s words that his heart was heavy for the evil he was seeing in his people. Please let me invite you to take a moment to consider the God who created us in His own image; the God who is concerned about our hurts and disappointments; the God who sacrificed His very own Son on a cruel cross at Calvary, so that His children who call on Him as Lord, would have peace and assurance in knowing that Heaven is their eternal home in the warm embrace of their Heavenly Father forever and forever. I can’t begin to imagine how hurt our God, this same God I just reflected on, must be when He looks over His creation and see the vast number that: have chosen to snub their noses at Him; rejected His offer of salvation; denounced His blessings over them; and instead chosen to do life their way – the misguided and sinful ways impressed upon them by the enemy, Satan. Friends, I pray that your heart will be touched by God today as you meditate on His Word and this devotional, for I believe that I am not alone in feeling convicted of the same things mentioned above, especially when my heart is weak, and my spirit is not fed by the Word of God on a regular basis. It is during the weak times that we tend to concentrate on our idols. I know, you are probably pounding your fist on the table by now as you try to convince yourself, and everyone else, that you have no idols. Be reminded of what idols are: they are the people, things, places and objects that get your attention – the attention that would otherwise be directed towards God. Although I am still far from perfect, I was reminded at one time in my life, while casually saying that I just didn’t have time to devote to studying God’s Word, that I should try instead saying that it was not a priority to me. That simple reminder has totally challenged me and helped me know that priority must be given to the one who is foremost in my life. Things that are a priority will be done before everything else that is secondary. There was alternatives to Jesus dying on a cross, for the Bible tells us that He could have called 10,000 angels (Matthew 26:53). But His precious children, and their eternal destiny, was a top priority to our Father, so in His infinite wisdom God did what was needed – just for us. Friends, this is the God we adore; this is the God we appreciate; this is the God we long to be with for all eternity; and this is the only God who can save us from our sin. Do you know Him? Is He a priority in your life, or are there still idols that get more of your attention than they deserve? Please read my ‘Footnote’ and consider correcting your priority today! Firm up your eternal destiny today, while you still have breath, health and wisdom to do so!

PRAYER BECAUSE OF THE IMPACT OF TODAY’S SCRIPTURE: Thank You Lord God for giving Isaiah insight into his current situation and into the future of what would happen to his people. Thank You for impressing upon me that You have an even wider view of all that’s in store for the child of God, and for those who have opted out of Your offer – salvation through Your precious Son. While I can’t speak for everyone else, I must personally beg Your forgiveness for me giving in way too much to the world – Satan and his vices – those things that quickly become ‘idols’ for us. You deserve our constant worship and our unending praise for all that You do for us, Lord. Please renew a right spirit within us that will provoke us to a deeper commitment to You and a desire to worship You with our unending praise. AMEN!

Be True Representatives of God

On 2023-11-01 By Ed AlgreenIn A Lamp unto My Path, Adoration, Answered Prayer, Appreciation, Awesome God, Beyond Description, Blessing, Celebrate God, Needs, Praise, Praise-worthy, Recognize God, WorshipLeave a comment

DATE POSTED: Wednesday, November 1, 2023, and I was blessed to be at Advent Christian Village, Dowling Park, FL when God inspired me to prepare this devotional. My Footnote will tell you how to find, read or listen to any and all episodes that I have shared over the years.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE FROM THE Living Bible (TLB) IS FOUND IN Luke 20:20-22

THE BIBLE TEXT IS: Watching their opportunity, they sent secret agents pretending to be honest men. They said to Jesus, “Sir, we know what an honest teacher you are. You always tell the truth and don’t budge an inch in the face of what others think, but teach the ways of God. Now tell us—is it right to pay taxes to the Roman government or not?”

APPLICATION OF THE WORD: Wouldn’t it be reassuring if we could hear Jesus tell us that we no longer need to pay government taxes? Wouldn’t it be fun if Jesus would tell us that citizens from all countries can just adopt the same philosophy of that practiced on the autobahn in Germany – with a suggested ‘good safe practice’ speed limit only? However, I wonder what Jesus might respond if we asked Him to help us get our way in each of the above two items on our wish-list. If He gave in to our desires and indicated that we should ignore what our respective government agencies post as laws for us to follow, what might we think about the rest of the commands in His Word? For God teaches in His Word that, as good citizens of heaven, we must first of all learn to be obedient to man’s laws, for He placed these leaders in place to govern us while here on earth under their jurisdiction. Perhaps, too often, Satan will place temptations before us to try and turn our head from the ways of God, just like these hired spies tried to do to Jesus. But friends, the way that the Holy Spirit dealt in my heart on this Scripture as I meditated today, was to allow this response from Jesus to minister and teach me to properly deal with life’s challenges like He did. Think about it, we quickly ‘fly off the handle’ in a rage when things are not going our way, or we are ready to ‘bite back’ to that innocent old man only trying to help us live and act like Jesus, especially when we determine in our minds to do things ‘our way’. Unlike us, in our weak, selfish and mortal ways, Jesus knew what these spies were up to, yet He didn’t call down fire on them, strike them down, or ‘give them a dose of their own medicine’, but He simply helped them draw their own conclusion on what they should do about paying taxes. I’m sure that, like me, you have seen how our responses impact others. That smirk on our face when we respond, shows our apparent adversary that we’re up to something in our response to their question, and it probably ‘ain’t good’. Our snide remarks could easily be interpreted as rude and/or obnoxious. Unfortunately, these are not examples of the character taught and exampled by our Lord. Wouldn’t it be awesome for us to think about that popular saying ‘what would Jesus do’, before we put our mouth in gear and allow the vile thoughts from deep inside of us to spill out and spoil the witness of our relationship with our Lord? So often we worry about how our friends will react after their encounter with us. I believe it would be a thrilling experience to see them stand in awe and marvel at our response, much like the spies did in verse 26 regarding the response from Jesus! What they meant for evil, Jesus gave them reason to leave in awe and wonder. To be like Jesus means that we are looking to imitate Him in all that we do and say, so that He may be lifted up and glorified because of us. Oh if that would be our theme for each day!

PRAYER BECAUSE OF THE IMPACT OF TODAY’S SCRIPTURE: No matter how humble we try to be, it is evident that we just can’t do life like You, Lord. We need You, and we need constant reminders of how precious You are to us. The people we come into contact with today will not benefit from our weakness and our sin. They need You, Lord. Please guide us, protect us, and remind us of Your love for all those we will encounter today. May they be aware of Your presence, Lord, even if they only physically see us. May You be glorified in us, and by them for having been around us, and may we be careful to give You honor and praise for all that is accomplished in our circle of friends and in our encounters today. AMEN!

Nuggets From God's Word

Month: November 2023