Look For LIGHT in A Dark World

On 2021-11-162021-11-16 By Ed AlgreenIn Answered Prayer, Appreciation, Light, Needs, Praise, Recognize God, Worship3 Comments

Tuesday, 2021-11-16

Bible Reference: John 12:35-36
Translation: New Living Translation (NLT)

Bible Text: ³⁵Jesus replied, “My light will shine for you just a little longer. Walk in the light while you can, so the darkness will not overtake you. Those who walk in the darkness cannot see where they are going. ³⁶Put your trust in the light while there is still time; then you will become children of the light.”

APPLICATION: In John 1:5 we are told that the same light referred to in our focal verses today, is actually ‘Jesus‘. God saw how far His precious children had gone off course, and away from the ideals He had first established for us to follow, so He sent His precious Son as a ‘LIGHT’ to remind us of the joy, refreshment, peace and hope that belongs to those of us looking for a way out of the darkness. For this darkness really tends to overwhelm us everywhere we turn here on earth. Yesterday I glanced at my Facebook account, and there was one plea after another for prayer and encouragement. In one case a dad and his relatives were mourning the sudden death of a 30+ year old son who was killed in a tragic accident; in another case close to home, a husband lost His precious wife who was his primary caregiver and support; in multiple cases crime had hit close to home for many families; and if I would have read on, I bet there would have been more friends feeling the results of the ‘darkness’ of this world. I found this Scripture very uplifting, because Jesus knew before time that these times of evil would come, and that mankind would need a very bright Light that stands for hope, even in our darkest times. I believe that many of us identify with the ‘darkness’ that has all but overcome us. Isn’t it rewarding that our God knew well in advance that we would need encouragement in knowing that there is more to this world than darkness? I was reminded that we were created in the image of God so that we might return praise back to Him. So what have we gotten ourselves into that hinders that praise back to our Father? Do we have an open and honest relationship with His Son, and experience the freedom of chatting with Him about all these worldly things that tend to stress us out? Are we able to praise Him, even in the storms of life that come our way? Don’t you think that the child of God that praises Him in all circumstances of life, will truly be able to approach Him with every decision that must be made, and every challenge that we foresee with just our human heart and eyes? Oh dear friend, let us together learn to speak with our Lord every day of the week, and not just when called upon to do so while at church. Remember, our relationship is with Jesus, and while our church family will definitely encourage us and support us, there is no one like Jesus! Our verses today reminds us that this Light (Jesus) is available to us. I would boldly suggest that we all have had enough of the ‘darkness’. It is high time that children of the Light, look to the Light for His huge hand of protection; healing; mercy and encouragement each and every day, so that He might wipe out the effects of the darkness and all the misfortunes that it burdens us with. Learn to praise Him even in the storms of life, and recognize Him for the all-powerful, almighty God that He is. Hard to imagine that He loves even us – wimps and weaklings – but He does. We are His creation that He put His life on the line for!

PRAYER: To the Light of the world, Jesus my Savior, I am honored and humbled to stand in Your presence and not only recognize You as my Lord and Savior, but as the Light that will extinguish all darkness, and especially the impacts of the ills and misfortunes of this wicked world. These bad things impact us all every day dear Lord, but I ask that You help us to stay focused on You and keep our eyes fixed on the awesome God that You are. Please guide us daily out of the darkness and into the light, so that our hearts will be freed and ready to worship and praise You in every aspect of life. You alone are God. Please help us to respect Your position in our lives, and to always be reminded of our need for You – in all things. AMEN!

FOOTNOTE: There are two more pages on my blog at https://NuggetsFromGodsWord.org that will provide you with additional information, one of them being ‘To Know Jesus’. If you have been challenged to make a decision today after reading or listening to this devotional, please go to the above 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 this devotional was forwarded to you and you would like to see more, please go to Nuggets From God’s Word and see all of my posts, or you may freely subscribe for a daily email conveniently containing each day’s devotional. I would encourage you to find a church home near by 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!

Only Evil People Do Evil Things

On 2021-11-04 By Ed AlgreenIn Answered Prayer, Appreciation, Light, Needs, Praise, Recognize God, WorshipLeave a comment

DATE POSTED Thursday, 2021-11-04
WRITTEN AT: Okeechobee, FL

SCRIPTURE FROM: 1 Samuel 24:11-13
TRANSLATION: Contemporary English Version (CEV)

BIBLE TEXT: ¹¹…. I could have killed you. But I let you live, and that should prove I’m not trying to harm you or to rebel. I haven’t done anything to you, and yet you keep trying to ambush and kill me. ¹²I’ll let the Lord decide which one of us has done right. I pray that the Lord will punish you for what you’re doing to me, but I won’t do anything to you. ¹³An old proverb says, “Only evil people do evil things,” and so I won’t harm you.

APPLICATION: I like to look at opposites when looking at certain Scriptures, hoping that it might help me to better understand what God wants to teach me. Looking at the proverb quoted by David, I believe the opposite might be something like this: ‘The child of God looking to imitate their Father (Almighty God), will always aim to do everything taught, and exampled by Him with a heart like His’. David showed us how this could be done. For unknown reasons Saul was out to kill David. Perhaps because of jealousy, but there is no indication that David did anything but respect and honor his earthly king. With this in mind, and after many attempts by Saul to kill this young man, yet David got close enough to cut a piece of Saul’s robe off, and still spared the life of his adversary. What would you have done? I believe that David has taught us that true respect for those God has placed in authority over us, demands us to respect and honor them no matter what we dislike about their actions or their challenges. But doesn’t this open our hearts to be different in a world that displays hatred in many forms for those in authority? Please allow me to encourage you to think of those in authority over you. It may be a parent, a boss, a senator, a governor, or even a president/king/queen etc. Do you respect these people sent by God to rule over you? Yes, it may seem that some of these individuals are out to get you killed, robed or perhaps reduced to a pauper, but remember that God’s Word is clear that He placed them in charge of you for His good purpose. I believe that a good self evaluation might be to think of the person in charge of you, in one form or the other, then try to ensure that it’s a person you particularly despise for various reasons. Now imagine yourself acting like David did. Can you forgive and respect that person to walk away from an opportunity to cause them physical or mental harm? Can you truly love them just as God loves them, because you convince yourself that they were sent by God for a time and purpose such as you are encountering? I bet that it’s a good thing we say over and over that ‘God’s not done with us yet’, or ‘God’s still working on me’. For you see, I believe that as long as we are left here on this earth, its ruler (Satan) will buffet us with temptations; with people that we are challenged to get along with; and with people who demonstrate hatred towards us because of whose we are. Friends, I want to encourage you, while all the while reminding myself, that only God can touch our hearts enough to love every child of His, for we are oh so different to each other that we need God’s help to consistently love everyone, including our leaders, because we represent the King of love. But God can do that my friend! He did it for David, and I am convinced that He can do it again! Ask God to help you, then trust Him as you remain faithful to Him.

BLESSING(S) NOTED: Just as evil people tend to do evil things, I believe the opposite is also true – good people, especially those who love and represent God here on earth, will go beyond the realm of understanding to mankind, to love, respect and honor those around them, even those in charge over them.

PRAYER: Lord Jesus, I am convinced that You placed us here on this earth so that we could live holy lives before an unusually evil bunch of family, friends and associates. Thank You for giving David the strength, courage and wisdom to love, honor and respect, in spite of a sinful man filled with hatred, jealousy and revenge. Lord, You never promised us a rose garden, nor a life of pleasure, constant happiness, always filled with riches, but You did promise to be with us, provide a way for us, and to fill us with Your wisdom and grace to help change the heart of man. We need this in very urgent ways each day Lord. Just as You helped David, please prepare my readers and I who claim You as King of our lives, to live each day in full expectation and urgency of Your soon return. We care about others. Please help us to show how much care by representing You in ways pleasing to You. AMEN!

FOOTNOTE: There are two more pages on my blog that will provide you with additional information, one of them being ‘To Know Jesus’. If you have been challenged to make a decision today after reading this devotional, please click on the above 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. Words underlined in my blog might indicate a link to a song that came to mind as I wrote the devotional. Feel free to click on the link and listen as you continue to read or pray. If this devotional was forwarded to you and you would like to see more, please go to Nuggets From God’s Word and read more, or you may freely subscribe for a daily email conveniently containing each day’s devotional. You may also visit me on Spotify and listen to Nuggets while you’re out and about. I would encourage you to find a church home near by 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!

Make A Difference For the Kingdom

On 2021-01-122021-01-11 By Ed AlgreenIn Answered Prayer, Appreciation, Light, Needs, Praise, Recognize God, Salt, WorshipLeave a comment

DATE WRITTEN: Tuesday, 2021-01-12
WRITTEN AT: Paul B Johnson State Park, Hattiesburg, MS

BIBLE REFERENCE: Matthew 5:13-14, 19
TRANSLATION: The Voice (VOICE)

BIBLE TEXT: ¹³You, beloved, are the salt of the earth…..
¹⁴And you, beloved, are the light of the world……
¹⁹Anyone who breaks even the smallest, most obscure commandment—not to mention teaches others to do the same—will be called small and obscure in the kingdom of heaven. Those who practice the law and teach others how to live the law will be called great in the kingdom of heaven.

OBSERVATION: We are looking at three different commands that Jesus issued to His disciples while enjoying some teaching moments on the mountain. Since there is such great truth in these lessons, I thought we might benefit from these today as we meditate on what God might have us do in 2021. Especially after being told that if we practice (obey) these commands and teach them to others, we will be highly considered by the Master in heaven.

APPLICATION: As we learn from our Master and share our experience and our knowledge with others, I believe that we too can be classified a ‘disciple’ of Jesus Christ. So I believe that these commandments taught by Jesus are very applicable to us still today. Here are three very important commands that I believe will help us make a difference in our world, and in our circle of influence:
1. You are the Salt of the earth – Salt was very well known to the original disciples, and it is still well known and commonly used today. It makes a huge difference in the flavor of our foods. Tasting food that was not seasoned in salt, is tasteless to those who use it on a regular basis. Jesus used this as a parable to help us realize that lives not infused with the power, love and image of Jesus Christ is bland, and has very little impact on the rest of the world, because they see no difference in our behavior. However, although many will not claim knowledge or acceptance of Jesus Christ, yet they are quick to recognize a Christian in their midst, as they see a difference in their mannerisms and their life choices, plus they know that they have a connection with the King of the universe. I believe Jesus wants us to stand for what He has taught us and be different, if we need to be, just as salt makes a difference in our food;
2. You are the light of the world – I found this one very interesting, because in John 8:12 and in John 9:5, Jesus said that He is the Light of the world as long as He is here in the world. The Bible says that we are to be like Jesus to the world, so I’m sure that by us also being commanded to be the light of the world, we would be following very closely in His footsteps. Jesus likened this to being a light on the top of a hill. Don’t you see that this means that the whole world could see the light that shines high on a hilltop? Don’t you know that in a room of people, the child of God must be an example, or a bright light for the rest of the world to see, respect and follow after? I believe this means that when the world is not sure where to turn next, or what they should do in certain circumstances, they should be able to ask those discipled by Christ which way to turn, knowing that the Bible and It’s Master is guiding us through each and every decision every day;
3. Practice God’s Commands and Teach them to others – This is clearly not a case of ‘doing as I say, not as I do’! For we are told that we should be obedient and living out the commands of Jesus. In other words, whether we say something about a situation, or if we just act in obedience to what God is leading us to say or do, He will be glorified and He will follow through with His promise to make us ‘great’ in His kingdom. There is nothing better than that dear friends!
So let me encourage you today to make a difference in the world around you. As Jesus lives inside of you through the Holy Spirit, be bold in declaring whose you are. Live like Him and allow Him to live through you to save a world that is otherwise dying and going to Hell.

PRAYER: Living here on earth is challenging in many ways, but when we are obedient to our Master and Lord, we can rest assured that He will only lead us towards loving, encouraging and challenging others to know Him as Savior. Thank You Lord for giving us our marching orders in today’s Scripture. May we be sincere and obedient to Your commands in everything we do and say, so that others will see proof of the Master right here on earth. Oh that Your kingdom may come soon, so that we may freely glorify You in all Your majesty at the right hand of the Father, where we will remain for all eternity. AMEN!

Your Role In Helping Others Praise The Lord

On 2020-12-142020-12-13 By Ed AlgreenIn Answered Prayer, Appreciation, Light, Needs, Praise, Recognize God, Salt, WorshipLeave a comment

DATE WRITTEN: Monday, 2020-12-14
WRITTEN AT: Paul B Johnson State Park, Hattiesburg, MS

BIBLE REFERENCE: Matthew 5:13-16
TRANSLATION: Living Bible (TLB)

BIBLE TEXT: ¹³“You are the world’s seasoning, to make it tolerable. If you lose your flavor, what will happen to the world? And you yourselves will be thrown out and trampled underfoot as worthless. ¹⁴You are the world’s light—a city on a hill, glowing in the night for all to see. ^15-16Don’t hide your light! Let it shine for all; let your good deeds glow for all to see, so that they will praise your heavenly Father.

OBSERVATION: No doubt you have heard someone say ‘Now that will give them something to talk about!’, or perhaps ‘If they’re talking about me, then they’re leaving everyone else alone!’. We tend to use these phrases with a ’tongue and cheek’ attitude, because we really wish that trouble makers would not talk badly about about anyone. But let’s ponder the idea of letting our life so shine and acting in a way that others will be reminded of Jesus Christ! Perhaps they may even turn and give Him praise!

APPLICATION: Sometimes we must be reminded of why we’re here, otherwise we may tend to think that it’s just to keep our spouse happy, or to provide for our kids, or to be a slave for our employer! However, in our Scripture today God used Matthew to set out two illustrations for us to see how truly valuable we, Christians, are to the world. As a part of the world, we may just blend in with the crowd, because we may look like them, have kids just as they do, have to work just as they do, go to the same parties as they do and perhaps even live in the same neighborhoods. However for some, there may be certain changes that take place in their lives that causes them to be different. For example: they may make sufficient money that they may rise above the rest in riches; their son or daughter may become a professional athlete and a light is suddenly shone on the parents; a household member may be arrested and the press is suddenly always on the doorsteps of that family; etc. But for the one that accepts Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior, how does that impact their neighborhood, coworkers or others in their circle of influence? I believe our Scripture helps us with this, for Jesus said:
~ You are the salt, or seasoning, of the earth – Food without salt, or any other type of seasoning is very bland and it would be challenging to encourage anyone to eat it. Houses in a neighborhood that are all alike are often referred to as ‘cookie cutters’. Residents in a neighborhood who are all alike may be referred to as all ’peas in the same pod’! However, when one stands out from the rest in their mannerisms, their decisions on controversial items, lack of worry about trivial worldly things, or their love for life and people around them, their neighborhood might begin to notice and wonder what has impacted them. Seasoning impacts the taste of food – usually for the better! Jesus Christ impacts the character and mindset of a believer – always for the better!
~ You are the light of the world – Someone with even minimal Bible knowledge will quickly tell you that Jesus is the Light of the World and that mankind should not be so presumptuous to believe that they are also ‘light’. However, in the example given above about neighborhood families or individuals, don’t you know that a soul that has been totally cleansed by the blood of Jesus Christ, and have vowed to live in close relationship with Him, they will begin living – acting, talking and giving, like the Light of the world? It’s just natural that this will occur. In fact, our Scripture is encouraging us to live a life where it is obvious to those around you that there is something, or someone impacting your life in such a way that they will not only desire to also have that thing/person, but they will also praise God daily because of your changed life and your natural changes that are evident in your life!
Dear friends, notice that these changes impact you and makes your life stand out, but there is little value in any of that unless Jesus Christ is recognized and permitted to draw others unto Himself through the changes in your life. Please don’t allow personal pride to interfere with that. Allow God only to be praised and lifted up.

PRAYER: Lord Jesus, Salt of the Earth and Light of the World, thank You for accepting a simple neighborhood guy who could have easily been recognized as one of the normal members of society. Your transformation in my life has been phenomenal, because You brought me from a child of worldly worth, to a prince of the Most High God. Thank You for reminding my friends and I through the Scriptures that our new life in You was not intended to promote self, other than the humbleness in giving up those things that the world may have attracted us to. Oh that through the grace of our Lord may our hardened hearts be melted, and may our attitudes be molded so that our character might allow the Light of the World to shine brightly through every aspect of our lives. Please Lord, use us for Your glory in drawing all those in our circle of influence unto Yourself so that they may praise You for ever and for ever. AMEN!

Live Like Children of The LIGHT

On 2020-07-21 By Ed AlgreenIn Answered Prayer, Appreciation, Light, Needs, Praise, Recognize God, Worship2 Comments

DATE WRITTEN: Tuesday, 2020-07-21
WRITTEN AT: Okeechobee, FL

BIBLE REFERENCE: Ephesians 5:8-11
TRANSLATION: New Century Version (NCV)

BIBLE TEXT: ⁸In the past you were full of darkness, but now you are full of light in the Lord. So live like children who belong to the light. ⁹Light brings every kind of goodness, right living, and truth. ¹⁰Try to learn what pleases the Lord. ¹¹Have nothing to do with the things done in darkness, which are not worth anything. But show that they are wrong.

OBSERVATION: Paul made it clear that Christians are children of the Most High God. We are loved by God and in respect of that love, we should live in a way that pleases God. In the preceding verses, Paul named some sins that his audience of that day were guilty of participating in and, unfortunately, I believe that we are living in a time when those same sins, and even worse, are occurring right in our neighborhoods. However, Paul was really speaking to the Ephesian church. Do you suppose our church-goers are guilty of similar sins even today? Perhaps this is worth meditating on today. Stick with me on this, friend.

APPLICATION: It seems like Paul may have had a very challenging audience to deal with in the Ephesian church, don’t you think? As you ponder that question, please stop and ponder to what degree you suppose that might be happening to pastors today. No, not at the church down the road that you have heard so much about, but right at your own church. Oh, you know everyone attending your church, so surely no such behavior is expected from your members? Dear, dear friends, having served in church leadership for much of my life, it is very unfortunate that I could tell you that not every one who enters our church doors on Sunday mornings with a big smile on their faces are as innocent as you might assume, just because they came to church. So I believe that Paul’s sermon on this subject would have been just as fitting in any of our churches, as it was to the Ephesians. Think about it, divorce rates are probably higher in the church than they are outside of the church. Many church goers wind up in prison, just like those from the outside. There are just as many vehicles that speed by us on the highway with Christian based bumper stickers as those with nasty, rude or cruel ones. However, I believe that God wanted this lesson taught through Paul to be internalized, at the time it was given by Paul, and on this very day that God has allowed me to share with you on this subject. You see, then and now, God is still against sin, and I believe that it still makes Him sick when He sees how tolerable the church has become with the sin that occurs around our churches and within. Let me encourage you to sit and chat with a Christian over 70 years of age. Ask them what is so widely acceptable now, that was totally rejected, or frowned upon, by the first church they attended. You may want to be sure you are seated and ready for the shocking response. We tend to look at the old church as having some very primitive ways that really could not survive in today’s environment. Why?? Paul taught us that individually we once brushed aside those sins committed in the dark, because we saw the light of God as it shone through the pages of His Word. And guess what, not one word has changed in the Bible. Even when current versions/translations try to make it easier for Christians today to understand the meaning behind what God had to say, the intent and meaning is still very prevalent and applicable. Therefore Paul taught that we are to shun the darkness and the sin committed therein. Instead, since we are children of the Light (the Light of the World – Jesus), then we must live like Jesus did and as He taught us to. In living like we should, it will become much more evident when sinners in our midst live in darkness. Unless the world sees a difference, then they will not see the necessity for change in their lives and in their behavior. I believe that our challenge from the Word today is that we should live so much like our Master, that the world will be drawn to Him, because they will know that only Jesus could change a dirty old sinner into a life reflecting the qualities detailed in verse 9 – every kind of goodness, right living, and truth. Praise God, I’m a child of the King! Please read through my Footnote and especially the Scripture referenced in the hyperlink, and ensure that you are a ‘child of the Light’ my friend!

PRAYER: Thank You Father for the gift of eternal life through Your Son, Jesus – the Light of the world! You knew from the start that we would struggle to live holy and righteous lives here in this old sinful world, so You sent Jesus to us as our Savior. Thank You from the bottom of our hearts. Please touch the lives of those living in the darkness of this world, may they see Jesus today, and may they reach for greater heights to know Him. Oh that Your children, who are called by Your name, will humble themselves, pray, seek Your face and Your forgiveness, then perhaps You will seek the will of the Father to forgive us our sins, heal our land and draw all men unto Yourself. We need this precious Lord. AMEN!

Jesus is the Answer!

On 2019-11-14 By Ed AlgreenIn Answered Prayer, Appreciation, Light, Needs, Praise, Recognize God, WorshipLeave a comment

Thursday, 2019-11-14

Bible Reference: John 12:35-36
Translation: The Passion Translation (TPT)

Bible Text: ³⁵Jesus replied, “You will have the light shining with you for only a little while longer. While you still have me, walk in the light, so that the darkness doesn’t overtake you. For when you walk in the dark you have no idea where you’re going. ³⁶So believe and cling to the light while I am with you, so that you will become children of light.”

OBSERVATION: In our world, filled with frustrations, crime, backbiting and envy, don’t you wish sometime that life was simpler and much less stressful? Don’t you feel sometime that you have the weight of the world on your shoulders bearing you down? Take a deep breath, and now re-read today’s Scripture! Isn’t it obvious that Jesus is the answer? Meditate with me as we reflect on this awesome truth today!

APPLICATION: In John 1:5 we are told that the same light referred to in our focal verses today, is actually ‘Jesus‘. God saw how far His precious children had gone off course, and away from the ideals He had first established for us to follow, so He sent His precious Son as a ‘LIGHT’ to remind us of the joy, refreshment, peace and hope that belong to those of us looking for a way out of the darkness that seem to overwhelm us everywhere that we turn here on earth. Yesterday I glanced at my Facebook account, and there was one plea after another for prayer and encouragement. In one case a dad and his relatives were mourning the sudden death of a 30+ year old son who was killed in a tragic accident; in another case close to home, a husband lost His precious wife who was his primary caregiver and support; in another case someone was very concerned for her family displaced by Hurricane Dorian; another friend is anxiously wanting to retire for relief from the stress of her job; and if I would have read on, I bet there would have been more friends feeling the results of the ‘darkness’ of this world, than those who were able to rejoice in the Light of all that God has blessed them with. Friends, I believe that most of you reading this devotional will identify with the struggles I mentioned, because we all are impacted by the ‘darkness’ of the world that we live in. HOWEVER, true to form, I went to the Word of God today to discover ways that I might be encouraged by the God of all hope! And I was reminded that we were created in the image of God so that we might return praise back to Him. So what have we gotten ourselves into that hinders that praise back to our Father? Do we have an open and honest relationship with His Son, and experience the freedom of chatting with Him about all these worldly things that tend to stress us out? Are we able to praise Him, even in the storms of life that come our way? Don’t you think that the child of God that praises Him in all circumstances of life, will truly be able to approach Him with every decision that must be made, and every challenge that we foresee with just our human heart and eyes? Oh dear friend, let us together learn to speak with our Lord every day of the week, and not just when called upon to do so while at church. Remember, our relationship is with Jesus, and while our church family will definitely encourage us and support us, there is no one that could ratify your relationship with the Master, but you. Our verses today remind us to do this while the Light (Jesus) is available to us. I would boldly remind us that we’ve had enough of the ‘darkness’. It is high time that children of the Light, look to the Light for His huge hand of protection; healing; mercy and encouragement each and every day, so that He might wipe out the effects of the darkness and all the misfortunes that it burdens us with. Learn to praise Him in your storms of life, and recognize Him for the all-powerful, almighty God that He is. Hard to imagine that He loves even us – wimps and weaklings – but He does. We are His creation that He put His life on the line for!

PRAYER: To the Light of the world, Jesus my Savior, I am honored and humbled to stand in Your presence and not only recognize You as my Lord and Savior, but as the Light that will extinguish all darkness and especially the impacts of the ills and darkness of this wicked world. These bad things impact us all every day dear Lord, but I ask that You help us to stay focused on You and keep our eyes fixed on the awesome God that You are. Please guide us daily out of the darkness and into the light, so that our hearts will be freed and ready to worship and praise You in every aspect of life. You alone are God. Please help us to respect Your position in life, and be reminded of our need for You – in all things. AMEN!

Light For Your Path

On 2019-10-31 By Ed AlgreenIn Light, Truth, WayLeave a comment

Thursday, 2019-10-31

Bible Reference: John 8:12
Translation: Contemporary English Version (CEV)

Bible Text: 12 Once again Jesus spoke to the people. This time he said, “I am the light for the world! Follow me, and you won’t be walking in the dark. You will have the light that gives life.”

OBSERVATION: When stumbling down a dark path, we would welcome light to help prevent us from tripping and falling. The time ahead of us is dark, because we cannot see what’s ahead. However, God’s Word brings hope to us in this area, for it tells us that Jesus is the light of the world, and those who accept Him as Lord and Savior will be led into the glories of heaven. Let’s consider what it might be like having that Light available to us today!

APPLICATION: After surgery a few years ago, the doctor was emphatic about making sure there was adequate light at night to make sure I didn’t trip on anything. Earlier this week I was working on a project that involved using a screwdriver. Once it got dark enough I could not continue, because without light I just could not find the screw-head. I believe that you are probably getting the point, that without sufficient light you just cannot do a whole lot. But what about in other aspects of life where we don’t necessarily depend on natural light, nor become despondent about the absence of light? There are times when we need to make decisions, and we feel totally blinded because we just don’t know what impact our decision will have on us. For example, retirement. We may want to begin retirement at age 50, so we could enjoy our dream vacations and destinations while we still have fairly good health. However, we worry about there being enough money in our retirement fund to keep us out of poverty, because who knows how long we will live into retirement? There seems to always be a part of decision making that is impacted by the unknown, so we stumble around in the dark, hoping that we will make good decisions, or trusting God to do the right thing. For those who read their Bibles, we know that there are two final destinations that awaits us after death from this world. If we have accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as our Savior, then Jesus has shown us His light, and showed us what our eternal kingdom will look like, and who will be in charge there. God created this universe, so we know He is there, and His Son, Jesus, is already there waiting for us. For those who have not made a decision like this, then the Bible is also clear about your final destination, and who will be in charge there, for Satan and his angels await those who have deliberately chosen to walk in darkness. Unfortunately folk, if you are like many that you know, you may have already had your share of earthly sufferings. But please allow me to gently break the bad news to you: ‘You ain’t seen nothing yet’. Friends, I would like to invite you to consider being obedient to the Light of this world – today, friend! Jesus suffered, even to the point of dying on a cruel cross, just to prove His love for us. He wants us to have the keys to heaven, or know the pathway to heaven, and there is no earthly means that would help us to achieve that. But He has provided light to the dark path that we are traveling, for He is the Light of the world. Why go on blindly as if in total darkness, when we know who the Light is? Jesus loves us way too much to see us plunder around in darkness and lose our battle to Satan, but He loved us enough to provide the means of us seeing He and the Father one day in Heaven. We are left with the choice of whether we will invite Light into our dark pathway of life. The choice seems plain, and obvious to me. Will you please consider making the most important decisions of your life – the right choice? Although not considered selfish by my friends, I am extremely selfish in asking God to tender the hearts of all my family and friends. I truly believe that Jesus heard my prayer, and that He is already working on each of you. Listen to His voice my friend, and surrender your life to Him today, won’t you?

PRAYER: The picture is clear dear God, for You have provided the Light that this world needs. Not only to prevent our stumbling around in the dark here on earth, but also for providing a clear, lighted path to heaven, where we are told that no light will be necessary there for You are the light. Praise God forever and forever! Please touch the lives of the unsaved today dear God. Please light their path so brightly that they will recognize their need for the Savior. Thank You for so adequately providing the Light of the world Heavenly Father, to be my Savior from Hell and damnation. My deepest desire is to see my family and friends do the same, so I am humbly placing this request at Your feet, praying that Your perfect will might be accomplished today. I ask these things in the precious name of Jesus, THE Light, THE Truth and THE Way, AMEN!

Light Up The World

On 2018-12-25 By Ed AlgreenIn Christmas, Light, WitnessLeave a comment

Tuesday, 2018-12-25

Bible Reference: Matthew 5:14-16
Translation: The Passion Translation (TPT)

Bible Text: “Your lives light up the world. Let others see your light from a distance, for how can you hide a city that stands on a hilltop?And who would light a lamp and then hide it in an obscure place? Instead, it’s placed where everyone in the house can benefit from its light.So don’t hide your light!^]Let it shine brightly before others, so that the commendable things you do will shine as light upon them, and then they will give their praise to your Father in heaven.”

OBSERVATION: In the Word of God, Jesus was referred to as ‘The Light’. Those who know Jesus and seek to live like He exampled for us, must also live as the ‘Light’ to those around them. Let’s meditate on what this might look like, and whether we are anywhere close to being a ‘Light’ that may guide others.

APPLICATION: There are so many examples of being a light in this world. In my younger days I owned a boat, and sometimes travelled at night to help a minister return home to the mainland from an island church that he may have ministered at that day. Across the harbor was a light that indicated the location of the dock to which I was traveling. On several occasions that light was out, so you could only imagine what a plunder, and danger, it was to find that dock on a dark, cold night, and avoid hitting other boaters returning from that dock. In similar fashion, the Bible says that we are to follow the example of Jesus and be a light in this ‘dark’ world in which we live. But how exactly may that be accomplish this, you might ask. Friends, I believe that when we are looked upon as true children of God, then others are recognizing the Fruits of the Spirit in us. Until this is achieved, or earned, others will look at us as hypocrites, or in worst shape than they are spiritually. So why do I look at this as ‘Light’ to a lost and fallen world? Let me encourage you to think about traveling down a long dark road. Think about the bumps and bruises you have already suffered from the inability to see where you are going, and what is standing in your way as obstructions. But suddenly you hear a voice calling you to follow them off to the right, however you can’t even see them, or where they are headed. Off to your left you see the form of a person beckoning you to follow them, and they are surrounded by light, and off in the distance you could see a well lit building, that you are convinced they are heading to. I believe that your decision has been made for you, for you are looking for relief from the darkness that has plagued you in your travel. The same is true with our everyday lives, friends. For people of the world, are looking for a way to improve/enhance/brighten their challenging walk here on earth. Why follow off to the right for more of the same? But to follow one on the road to the left (as in my above example), they must have seen evidence in your life that you have been with the Light of the World and that you know where you are going. If you have not experienced The Light, then it is impossible to reflect that light for others to follow. God knew that the world was filled with the darkness of sin, and had no Light form to run to and be guided by, so He sent His Son, Jesus, born as a baby so that we could identify with Him. May we truly be the Light of the World – The Light that represents God Himself, this Christmas and celebrate it like never before. For Jesus, the Light of the World, was miraculously born with every intention of saving us from the darkness of sin, and opening the gates of heaven for all who believe in Him, to rule and reign in our lives. Merry Christmas friends! Go now and be a LIGHT to the world!

PRAYER: Light brought into a dark room spells ‘Relief’ and saves us from hurting ourselves because of the absence of light. Thank You Father for rescuing us from the darkness of sin in this old wicked world, by sending us the ‘LIGHT’ needed to overcome darkness/sin. Because of that Light, we can now boast of eternal life with the Creator of this universe – with God, the Father; God, the Son; and God, the Holy Spirit. Now oh Lord, may we go and be Light to all those around us who walk in darkness. May they see Your beauty, Your glory and Your everlasting peace, in every aspect of our lives who claim You as Lord. AMEN!

Always Let Your LIGHT Shine

On 2018-02-072018-02-07 By Ed AlgreenIn Committed, Light, Totally committed, Unconditional commitmentLeave a comment

SCRIPTURE FROM: Acts 16:27-31 (TLB)

TEXT: ²⁷The jailer wakened to see the prison doors wide open, and assuming the prisoners had escaped, he drew his sword to kill himself. ²⁸But Paul yelled to him, “Don’t do it! We are all here!” ²⁹Trembling with fear, the jailer called for lights and ran to the dungeon and fell down before Paul and Silas. ³⁰He brought them out and begged them, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” ³¹They replied, “Believe on the Lord Jesus and you will be saved, and your entire household.”

OBSERVATION: In order to quiet the witness of Paul and Silas, they were thrown into prison and the guards were ordered to take extra precaution in securing them. The mouths of Paul and Silas were left unbound, so in the darkness of the night they serenaded other prisoners with their sacrifices of praise and thanksgiving to their Heavenly Father. God saw the need for salvation among those in that prison, so He sent an earthquake. The effects of the ‘quake opened the prison doors and broke the chains that bound God’s men there in that prison. Being accustomed to prisoners looking for every opportunity to escape, the guard was about to take his own life – until Paul spoke up in the darkness of that prison. Of course this had an enormous impact on that prison guard. Are you having a similar impact on those who witness your actions and your speech?

APPLICATION: I believe that the very times that we feel shy about witnessing, or feel like we are incapable of sharing the Word of God with anyone, it is then that the Holy Spirit ‘kicks in’ and says, ‘OK, now I can do the work of Him who sent me in this weakened vessel’. Friends, we are taught how to be comfortable in witnessing, yet we become timid in speaking up for our beliefs; we fear the evil one, instead of fearing the God of this universe; we are too quick to conclude that only ministers of the gospel could share Christ with others, for we tend to believe that it was surely a miracle that God saved us, so let’s not push our luck in believing that God could possibly use us to witness to a friend or family member. Friends, these myths are straight from the devil, for you won’t find in Scripture where God says to call your pastor or elder to go into all the world and share Christ. God ordained that all of His children should ‘go’ and ‘share as we go’, because He allows others to see Himself in our actions and through our character and speech. Friends, I believe that we should also question ourselves when we realize that we are not having a godly impact on others. For we should then strive to draw closer to God than ever before, through reading His Word – a message to us from God Himself; and commune with Him in prayer – open communication with our Father. We have nothing to be ashamed of, for the Kingdom of God is accessible to us! We have nothing to be ashamed of – for there is only one God, and we have personal contact with Him, through His Son, Jesus! – and God is the author and creator of all things. You talk about having a relationship and a connection with important people! WOW, this is THE Almighty God of this world!

PRAYER: Lord Jesus, people recognize when we’re happy in life’s circumstances, and they notice when we are happy being around family and good friends. Oh that they may see the glow of You living in and through us as are obedient to You and sow love to You and them. To repeat what I saw taped on a previous pastor’s pulpit: ‘Oh that they see Jesus’. That is my prayer today Lord! Have Your perfect will and way in directing me, and in the lives of those that will encounter You through me. Oh that they see Jesus! AMEN!

FOOTNOTE: There are two more pages on my blog that will provide you with additional information, one of them being ‘To Know Jesus’. If you have been challenged to make a decision today after reading this devotional, please click on the above 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. Words underlined in my blog could indicate a link to a song that came to mind as I wrote the devotional. Feel free to click on the link and listen as you continue to read or pray. If this devotional was forwarded to you and you would like to see more, please go to Nuggets From God’s Word and read more, or you may freely to subscribe for a daily email conveniently containing each day’s devotional. If you are anywhere near the Sebring, Florida area and do not have a church home, I would be thrilled to welcome you at Bible Fellowship Church, located at 3750 Hammock Rd, Sebring, FL 33872! Click the link to check out service times and/or other special activities. God is at work among us! Please consider coming to worship with us!

To Bear Witness

On 2017-09-262017-09-26 By Ed AlgreenIn Light, Salvation, True witnesses, Witness, WitnessingLeave a comment

Post Date:	Tuesday, 2017-09-26
SCRIPTURE
From:	John 1:6-12 (NKJV)
Text:	⁶There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. ⁷This man came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light, that all through him might believe. ⁸He was not that Light, but was sent to bear witness of that Light. ¹¹He came to His own, and His own did not receive Him. ¹²But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name
OBSERVATION:
Right at the outset of the Gospel of John, he claims that his whole purpose in existing is to be a witness for the King who sent him, and who will return to this earth to rule and reign. Wow, what a witness! Let’s apply that to ourselves…..
APPLICATION:
In our lives we are often compared back to one of our parents. We either look like them or act like them. Often our mannerisms, or our smile, or some of the things we say, or the way we act, might remind people of one or both of our parents. I wonder how often we are mistaken for Jesus? Without going around with a placard around our necks, I wonder how often others see the qualities of Jesus Christ in us? One of the things that we must remember when we feel led of God to be a bold witness for Him, is that we will be so totally different to this world, that they will probably feel like we are crazy, just like John was treated. You see, it was very evident to God that Satan was leading this world totally down the opposite road to what God intended. Think about it: Satan encourages lies to get your own way and try to fool the other party you are dealing with, but God wants us to always tell the truth; Satan will lead us to kill, like he did with several in the Bible stories that we read, but God wants us to value the life that He has provided in each of us, because He wants us go on being living witnesses for Him; Satan encourages trickery and deception, but God leads us to be transparent and loving to our Brothers and Sisters, because He wants us to follow His example. Friends, God sent John as the pre-runner to His first coming. I believe that He has sent us as the pre-runner to His second coming. Are you on track for the task assigned to you? There’s no time for procrastination, for I believe that Jesus could return at any moment to take His bride away to glory – that’s His children who have accepted Him as Lord and are anxiously awaiting His return. Our task is similar to that of the apostle John, let’s be busy about the Master’s work so that many will be ready to go when He returns. The alternative is Hell, a place made only for those who refuses to trust in God. Where will you go, if Jesus returned today, friend?
PRAYER:
Like John the Baptist, I feel like You have given us the heads-up on what’s ahead, Lord Jesus. Like our Brother John, we could only resign ourselves to being Your light in the midst of this dark world of sin. Please give us boldness to do Your will, to be Your witness, and to love others enough to care about their well being and their future. The options are totally opposite, and our desire is that everyone we know will see Your light today and accept You as Lord, because tomorrow may be too late. Use us, Your humble servants to be a living witness, a light to the many who need to have their world enlightened with Your grace and Your glory, AMEN!
FOOTNOTE:
There are two more pages on my blog that will provide you with additional information, one of them being ‘To Know Jesus’. If you have been challenged to make a decision today after reading this devotional, please click on the above 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. Words underlined in my blog could indicate a link to a song that came to mind as I wrote the devotional. Feel free to click on the link and listen as you continue to read or pray. If this devotional was forwarded to you and you would like to see more, please go to Nuggets From God’s Word and read more, or you may freely to subscribe for a daily email conveniently containing each day’s devotional. If you are anywhere near the Highlands County, Florida area and do not have a church home, I would be thrilled to welcome you at Bible Fellowship Church, located at 3750 Hammock Rd, Sebring, FL 33872! Click the link to check out service times and/or other special activities. God is at work among us! Please consider coming to worship with us!

Nuggets From God's Word

Category: Light