Category: Worship

Relationship Denials

On By Ed AlgreenIn Answered Prayer, Appreciation, Boldness, Needs, Praise, Recognize God, Relationship, Relationships, WorshipLeave a comment

Thursday, 2019-09-12

Bible Reference: Luke 22:26-60
Translation: The Passion Translation (TPT)

Bible Text: 56 A girl noticed Peter sitting in the firelight. Staring at him, she pointed him out and said, “This man is one of Jesus’ disciples!”
57 Peter flatly denied it, saying, “What are you talking about, girl? I don’t know him!”
58 A little while later, someone else spotted Peter and said, “I recognize you. You’re one of his, I know it!”
Peter again said, “I’m not one of his disciples.”
59 About an hour later, someone else identified Peter and insisted he was a disciple of Jesus, saying, “Look at him! He’s from Galilee, just like Jesus. I know he’s one of them.”
60 But Peter was adamant. “Listen, I don’t know what you’re talking about. Don’t you understand? I don’t even know him.” While the words were still in his mouth, the rooster crowed.

OBSERVATION: We are identified and referred to by the people and places that we hang around, and often by the clothes we wear. Imagine a doctor walking around your favorite store in a pair of shorts. Would you ever recognize him? Imagine a charismatic pastor sitting in a waiting room at the hospital in casual clothes calmly and softly chatting with a young lady, would you recognize him? Also, what if you traveled to a country that is unfriendly to the gospel, and the authorities identified you as ‘one of those Christians’. Would you quickly step forward and rejoice that God has answered your prayers? Join me as we meditate on the dilemma of Peter.

APPLICATION: With every good intention, many of us pray that others may see the character and love of Jesus in us, hoping that others might be drawn to Christ because of our testimony. Inside our churches we sing His praises, love on other like believers, and we may even shout ‘Amen’ in agreement to all that the Pastor has to say. All things that the Savior might be proud of, right? But what are we like in our business places? In our business decisions? In our after work parties? Or in our political affiliations? Will the servant girl identify us as ‘one of His’? We might very easily become entrapped in similar challenges with other associations in life. Like Peter, some may be afraid of the consequences that might ensue because of family affiliations, or political affiliations, or others. Friends, I believe that our challenge in this Scripture today is ‘What will we do with Jesus?’. Is He just a good relationship to keep mom, spouse, children and the pastor, happy and off our back? Is He good to know when things are really rough on us – medical challenges; dying relative; a child in trouble with the law; etc. or have you truly accepted Him as your Lord and personal Savior? I pray that you’ve developed such a relationship with Him that you are comforted by His love; His guidance; His wisdom; and His promise of eternity with He and the Father in heaven? Let me suggest that if you feel all of the latter, and you know that your eternity is secure in Him, then may I challenge you today to think about what your answers would be to the questions asked of Peter? For I believe that you will be challenged along the same lines as Peter was, while living this life here on earth. Decide this day whom you will follow, and to whom you will cling to, when challenged by the ungodly and those who are out to get you.

PRAYER: Precious Lord, take my hand, lead me on through every step of this Christian life. Whether in the good times of rejoicing with fellow Christians, or in situations where we are faced with the daggers of the enemy, please give us the boldness to never back down from our association and relationship with You. After all, You bore the embarrassment and the sting of punishment for us while carrying out the plan of Your Father, so that the mean and the wicked of this world might have the means of salvation – union with God the Father. Thank You for Your sacrifice, and thank You for the love shown for us. Please embolden us with Your power and Your strength to never back down from our ties with You. Oh that You would rule and reign in us, until the day You call us home to glory! AMEN!

Consider Your Form of Betrayal

On By Ed AlgreenIn Answered Prayer, Appreciation, Betrayal, Needs, Praise, Recognize God, WorshipLeave a comment

Wednesday, 2019-09-11

Bible Reference: Luke 22:47-48
Translation: The Passion Translation (TPT)

Bible Text: 47 No sooner had he finished speaking when suddenly a mob approached, and right in front of the mob was his disciple Judas. He walked up close to Jesus and greeted him with a kiss. For he had agreed to give the religious leaders a sign, saying, “The one I kiss is the one to seize.” 48 Jesus looked at him with sorrow and said, “A kiss, Judas? Are you really going to betray the Son of Man with a kiss?”

OBSERVATION: A story that we’ve read and/or heard many times, yet the Holy Spirit will challenge you each time that you read it again. I bolded a statement that I was challenged with today as I read this Scripture. I trust that as we meditate on this, we might ponder what actions we take individually in betraying, or denying our Lord.

APPLICATION: Betrayal is one of the most painful human experiences. Discovering that someone we trusted has deeply hurt us pulls the reality rug from under us. We might look at Judas and wonder how could he possibly betray his Lord after seeing Him heal the sick; bring the dead back to life; feed the 5,000; show love to the unlovable; and sit down at the table with he and the other 11 disciples. Why Jesus even showed deep humility in washing the disciples’ feet. Yet for a small bag of coins, and a moment of recognition by the religious leaders, Judas escaped the reality of a loving Savior and joined the side of the enemy to crucify Jesus. I couldn’t help but ponder what we would feel like if Jesus looked into our eyes and asked the same question of us. Will you betray me with ______ Ed? Friends, we may not be in the same position as Judas, where we are selling out to the religious leaders, but I’m afraid that there are times that we hide our relationship with the Master. Perhaps in a public setting known for their stand against religious lingo, or Christian practices; Perhaps in the presence of government officials who are bombarded by fellow representatives who frequently speak of the separation of church and state; Perhaps just in a public setting, like a restaurant, where others may steer at you if you pause to give thanks for your food. I believe that anytime we fail to recognize Jesus in all walks of life, or are embarrassed to claim Him as your Lord and Savior, you are betraying the trust that He expects from you. Can you imagine hanging on a cross half naked and beaten to a pulp, because it was His way of displaying His ultimate love for us? Imagine if He would have backed out of that, because we were just not worth the pain it would cause our Lord? How would you feel about Him? Friends, is there anything you wouldn’t do in return for our Savior’s love and the provision of salvation made possible just for us? For Judas, it was a simple, everyday kiss that told the whole story of denial for him. What is it for you?

PRAYER: Precious Lord, thank You for never backing down on Your commitment to Your Father. Thank You for always loving us, and Your willingness to even be crucified just for us. Please touch our hearts today with a renewed sense of boldness and love for You. May our commitment to serving You be so strong that nothing will ever separate us from the love of God. Yes, we want to please our friends, please our government leaders, and be a noble citizen, but please give us the strength to never do any of that at the expense of serving You and being true to our commitment in loving You for all eternity. Oh that others may see Your love in us today and want to know You personally, before it’s too late. AMEN!

Ready or Not Here He Comes

On By Ed AlgreenIn Answered Prayer, Appreciation, Needs, Praise, Recognize God, WorshipLeave a comment

Friday, 2019-09-06

Bible Reference: Luke 21:34-36
Translation: The Passion Translation (TPT)

Bible Text: 34 “Be careful that you never allow your hearts to grow cold. Remain passionate[m] and free from anxiety and the worries of this life. Then you will not be caught off guard by what happens. Don’t let me come and find you drunk or careless in living like everyone else. 35 For that day will come as a shocking surprise to all, like a downpour[n] that drenches everyone, catching many unaware and un-prepared. 36 Keep a constant watch over your soul, and pray for the courage and grace to prevail over these things that are destined to occur and that you will stand before the presence of the Son of Man with a clear conscience.”

OBSERVATION: I am amazed that God gives us multiple early warnings before bringing eternal consequences on us. In our Scripture today we are warned about the times that will lead up to His return to take His bride (the church – the redeemed of Christ – those who have accepted Jesus as Lord of their life) home to glory with Him. No time frame was given, so you may never get to read this devotional today, because no matter how fast the internet is, He may choose to return before you ever have access to this. So please take this devotional seriously, as there may be decisions that you may need to make today.

APPLICATION: As a child we may have been warned not to touch certain things. Of course we had to test mom and dad so that we could see what would happen if we touched the item anyway! Often there were consequences if we ignored mom and dad and followed through on our quest! We were introduced to ‘choices’! As we grew into adulthood, this matter of obedience and control became even more prevalent. Speeding; stealing; lying; cheating; etc. But in every case we had a ‘choice’ to make about whether we would obey the rules, or not. Then most of us learned of Jesus Christ and what He did for us on Calvary. Similar to other life scenarios, we had a ‘choice’ to make. Do we place our trust in Jesus and ready ourselves for His return, or shall we take our chances that He’s not serious? Friends, these are decisions that every adult will make. Unless you accept Jesus as Lord of your life, you are destined for the pit of hell with Satan. Note: you have never actually been through ‘hell’ here on earth like you may have thought a few times, for Satan has a pit prepared for you that is worst than anything you ever imagined. However, if you decide to take Jesus at His word, and accept Him as your Lord and personal Savior, you are offered the assurance of living eternally in heaven with He and the Father. The destination experience is totally different. In the first case, you can look forward to more heat, hatred, evil and pain than you have ever experienced here on earth. In the second option, you will find a loving Savior awaiting your entrance with outstretched arms and a welcoming smile. He will look very familiar, because the Word of God says that He created us in His own image. I believe that the love that He will portray will be greater than anything we could ever imagined from His Word. Can you imagine how He will proudly introduce us to the Father? “Father, these are the ones who accepted the gift that we gave on Calvary, and they’re here to spend the rest of eternity with us”. So friends, let’s not forget the warning in our verses today – Jesus will return to take His body of believers/followers home to glory with Him. Know that this will happen on His timetable, and not yours. Know that you are destined for hell, and will not qualify to join the group that will accompany Jesus, unless you have first accepted Him as Lord and Savior while here on this earth. Jesus could very easily return today my friend. Are you ready to go with Him? It’s your call. There are details in my Footnote that could help you in making a change in your eternal destination. My humble plea is that you will be wise today.

PRAYER: Lord God, thank You for the promise of life eternally in heaven with You! What joy fills my heart today to even think of seeing Your wonderful face, bowing at your feet and worshiping You endlessly. Oh I want to see You, Look upon Your Face, There to sing forever, of Your saving grace! Thank You for the warning in our Scripture today Lord Jesus, but should You come today, I am ready to go! Praise Your wonderful name! Please use these words as encouragement for those who may stumble across this devotional and not know You as Lord. Soften their hearts and call them to Yourself, I pray. AMEN!

When God’s Power Takes Over

On By Ed AlgreenIn Answered Prayer, Appreciation, Needs, Praise, Recognize God, WorshipLeave a comment

Wednesday, 2019-09-04

Bible Reference: Judges 6:34
Translation: Amplified Bible, Classic Edition (AMPC)

Bible Text: 34 But the Spirit of the Lord clothed Gideon with Himself and took possession of him, and he blew a trumpet, and [the clan of] Abiezer was gathered to him.

OBSERVATION: God sent an angel to meet with Gideon and give him instruction. Like us, Gideon needed proof that the messenger was sent from God. Later as the angel gave further instruction, Gideon asked for further identification or proof from the angel. However, in our focal verse we can see that when the angel was really ready to have Gideon move into action, we are told that God took special action. I believe that God has to take extra action with us many times, so let us meditate on this for a few moments today.

APPLICATION: I found it fascinating to see at the beginning of this encounter with Gideon, the call on his life for a great work by God. Isn’t it interesting to see that he was a man filled with doubts just like us, and that he needed reassurance, just like us? I was also fascinated at the contrasting difference in the Gideon that the angel first spoke to, and the Gideon that was totally enveloped by the awesome power of the Holy Spirit. The angel first ordered Gideon to simply pull down the idol of Baal and erect in its place an altar for God. I know, that wasn’t a totally simple thing, because Gideon was really setting himself up to be killed for such an act. However, in the next action we could see that the Abiezers went from a group that was about to mob Gideon, and probably kill him, to a group ready to follow him and listen to his commands. How did this happen? Notice in our focal verse that the Spirit of the living God enveloped Gideon! He clothed Gideon with a robe of righteousness and power that prepared him for the enormous work of the Almighty God. The Spirit took charge, or possession of Gideon! Imagine that Brothers and Sisters, can anything penetrate that shield that was erected around Gideon at that point? I can see clearly that it was no longer Gideon who was making the moves and blowing the trumpet, but God Almighty! Can you see that this is not only the awesome God that we serve, but this is the God that we could place our faith and trust in to see us through our challenges, and our ministry opportunities. Friends, there is no God like our God, and there is nothing that we should be overwhelmed with, when we allow the Holy Spirit to envelope us and protect us from the evil darts and attacks of Satan. So please allow me to encourage us to always seek God and welcome Him to protect us, lead us, and fight for us. For it is only then that we can win the daily attacks of Satan and his many cohorts here on planet earth. The One in whom we place our faith and trust today, is the One that we will spend eternity with. There is no intermediary. You will either spend eternity with God, because you trusted in His Son while you tarried here on earth, or you will spend eternity in Hell with the evil one, because you rejected Christ. I trust that you will read through my Footnote and the associated links, to help you decide today where your final destination will be. It’s your choice my friend.

PRAYER: Dear Lord, You were gracious to Your servant Gideon, and used Him in miraculous ways. Our world seems like it is way more evil than the days of Gideon, so I humbly ask that You would fill my readers and I, that know You as Lord, in a very special ministry to the lost and unconcerned people that we come into contact with on an almost daily basis. I believe that people today need the Lord more than any generation before us, and I believe that You have placed us where we’re at for a time such as this. Please envelope us with Your Holy Spirit and empower us to ‘blow the trumpet of God’ as we lift up Your name and be Your witnesses in our battle against the evil one. Oh that You may be honored and praised in all that we do and say today, is my humble pray oh God. AMEN!

To Praise God In All Circumstances of Life

On By Ed AlgreenIn Answered Prayer, Appreciation, Needs, Praise, Recognize God, WorshipLeave a comment

Tuesday, 2019-09-03

Bible Reference: Psalm 56:9-11
Translation: The Passion Translation (TPT)

Bible Text: …This one thing I know: God is on my side!
10 I trust in the Lord. And I praise him!
I trust in the Word of God. And I praise him!
11 What harm could man do to me?
With God on my side I will not be afraid of what comes.
My heart overflows with praise to God and for his promises.
I will always trust in him.

OBSERVATION: David, the Psalmist, was able to praise His Lord in spite of the circumstances that he was under at the time, for he had been seized by the Philistines. I wonder, what I might do under similar circumstances? Looking at video footage from the Bahamas and all that they endured from hurricane Dorian over the past two days, I wonder if I could stand in waist deep water and praise the Lord? Let us stop and meditate on what might be stopping us from praising the Lord in every circumstance of life.

APPLICATION: So often we face challenges that we would rather not have touched our lives, for we may have been impacted in life altering ways. I have family and friends who were just hit by a very powerful hurricane and endured hours and hours of suffering. Can I even imagine them raising their hands in praise and thanksgiving to our Lord? I have friends who have lost a child, a spouse, a mom, etc, but can I even imagine them standing in praise to the Master? Perhaps you know of friends who have suffered loss of jobs, or perhaps going through a divorce, or some other life-changing event. What would you do or say if they asked you to join them in praise to our King? Wouldn’t that amaze you? I believe that God wants to remind us today that regardless of our circumstances, He’s still God! I believe that He wants us to know that whether we are celebrating a mountain top experience, or whether we are going through the deepest ‘waters’ of our lives, He’s still God. We tend to fret and moan over the loss of material gain, but dear friends, let us always be reminded that the One who gives life; the One who guides us through every circumstance of life; the One who comforts us like no other, Our God – Our One and Only God – He’s still our very best friend; He’s still our Deliverer; He still loves us in spite of our failures or circumstances. Let us always remember that He has gone to prepare a place for us, where we will dwell eternally with Him in glory! That’s our God my friend! We have nothing to fear or fret about with knowing whose we are, and where we will be after this wicked and challenging life here on earth is over! Yes, He’s still God – our God!

PRAYER: Oh Lord my God, when I in awesome wonder, consider all thy hands have made! It’s all Yours Lord. Thank You for allowing us to occupy a small part of this old earth. Thank You for surrounding us with family and friends who love us. Please dear Lord, take hold of our hearts today and remind us that we are enjoying temporary quarters here on earth, so until we unite with You, many things will come our way that tend to dissapoint and perhaps even sadden us, but we have a hope! We have a promise! We have a Savior that awaits our departure from this earth, so that we could live eternally with Him. Oh Lord, I stand in awe of You and patiently await Your return! Please speak to those who might meditate on this blog and struggle with the things of this world. Only what’s done for Jesus will last! May we be found busy about Your work oh Lord, until You take us home to be with You! AMEN!

Decide Today Whom You Will Serve

On By Ed AlgreenIn Answered Prayer, Appreciation, Needs, Praise, Recognize God, Redemption, Salvation, Saved, WorshipLeave a comment

Wednesday, 2019-08-28

Bible Reference: Joshua 24:14-15
Translation: Good News Translation (GNT)

Bible Text: 14 “Now then,” Joshua continued, “honor the Lord and serve him sincerely and faithfully. Get rid of the gods which your ancestors used to worship in Mesopotamia and in Egypt, and serve only the Lord. 15 If you are not willing to serve him, decide today whom you will serve, the gods your ancestors worshiped in Mesopotamia or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are now living. As for my family and me, we will serve the Lord.”

OBSERVATION: In Joshua’s last discourse with the Israelite leaders, he brought them together and reminded them of where they came from (including their forefathers) and how they got to their current location in the position they were now in as land owners. He reminded them that it was only the love and power of God that brought them through the overwhelming challenges along their way. However, they still had a choice about whom they will worship/serve. We have the same choice to make, so let us meditate on the challenge given by Joshua and see how God might use it to help direct us today.

APPLICATION: About a year ago, on the anniversary of our church beginnings, we were reminded of how God moved mightily in so many ways as His people prayed, gave and worked together to build a sanctuary for worship to our King. Our hearths were stirred to consider how awesome it would be to see God do it again, now that we have run out of space at our current location. In our Scripture, Joshua reminded the Israelite leaders of all that God had brought them, and their ancestors through, in order to arrive at the current land of milk and honey. He showed them clearly that it was only because of God. Having heard about, and in many cases witnessed the miraculous hand of God, Joshua challenged them to now stop ‘riding the fence’ and make a decision today on whom they will choose to recognize as God of their lives and sincerely worship, for as long as they live. Does this remind you of a recent sermon you may have heard at your church? Or have you not heard of a good reason yet to attend church? Joshua made a few suggestions to the leaders on who they might choose as alternate gods, you know, the same types of options we still have available to us today, at least for a short while longer. Friend, perhaps you grew up in a home where your parents attended church, because it was their go-to place for worshipping corporately, the God that they served everyday, and that they promoted in your home. In your early teen years the cool kids from the neighborhood pulled you in to their group and you found satisfaction in the companionship, the fun and games and the things they were teaching you. Looking for them each day after school soon reminded you of your parents and their go-to place, for your friends became your go-to place. Until suddenly one day your precious mom became deathly sick, and your friends were way too busy to help you care for your mom, or give you any type of assurance about her recovery. Your ‘god’ seemed to be failing you. What on earth was happening to you? Friends, based on what Joshua told his leaders, I believe that we have a similar decision to make in our lives TODAY. Are we prepared to make a firm commitment to the god that we will follow/serve? If we choose the god of the ‘hood’ like our friend, we will find ourselves wanting, because they are incapable of fulfilling our needs like the God who created us and knows us intimately. But please don’t overlook the warning that Joshua gave, don’t say ‘yes’ to my God unless you are ready and serious about serving Him, because He could either bless you, or He could destroy you like the Amorites, for your pretense. Please allow me to guide you in this, by boldly repeating what Joshua said: regardless of what you decide, my family and I will serve the Lord and worship Him until He returns to take us home. Dear friends, my desire is that you would decide to do the same. If you don’t know my Lord intimately, please read my Footnote and be sure to follow the hyperlinks.

PRAYER: Precious Lord, You have been so good to us, yet we take Your blessings and Your gifts for granted. Please forgive us as we bow before you humbly today. Lord, we know that there is no one else like You, and that You deserve our faithfulness and total dedication. As encouraged by Your servant Joshua, may we become a people committed to serving and worshipping only You for ever and for ever. AMEN!

Lord, Have Mercy on Me!

On By Ed AlgreenIn Answered Prayer, Appreciation, Needs, Praise, Recognize God, WorshipLeave a comment

Monday, 2019-08-26

Bible Reference: Luke 18:35-41
Translation: The Passion Translation (TPT)

Bible Text: 35 As Jesus and his followers arrived at Jericho, there was a blind beggar sitting on the roadside. 36 When he heard the crowd approaching, he asked, “What’s all this commotion about?”
37 “It’s Jesus!” they said. “Jesus the Nazarene is passing by.”
38 The blind beggar shouted, “Jesus, Son of David, have pity and show me mercy!”
39 Those who were in the front of the crowd scolded him and warned him to be quiet. But the blind beggar screamed out even louder, “Jesus, Son of David, show me mercy!”
40 Suddenly Jesus stopped. He told those nearby, “Bring the man over to me.” When they brought him before Jesus, he asked the man, 41 “What is it you want me to do for you?”
“Lord,” he said, “please, I want to see again.”

OBSERVATION: I’m sure that in most churches this past weekend, believers gathered together to praise God for His infinite mercies and grace, but I wonder, how many of you had anyone shouting out to Jesus for healing? Perhaps your weekend services are very organized, and follows a very detailed order of service, and nothing was programmed for such activity. Or was it in your midweek service where the blind come for healing? Do the blind even do this anymore, or have they been talked out of it? It seems appropriate that we should meditate on where the blind, the lame or the sick go to find Jesus these days. Join me as we meditate on this dear friend!

APPLICATION: Because many businesses open to the public on weekends, and because television, radio and podcasts of services are giving churches limited air space, church services are generally programmed to last for a very limited time. But I want us to try and place this story into the context of where we might expect the blind or lame or deaf to have an encounter with Jesus in our current times. As I reflect on this story, I could only imagine a scene where our Worship Pastor might arrive on a Sunday morning to prepare for our worship services, and immediately upon swinging the doors to the sanctuary open, what his reaction might be if he heard 2 or 3 blind persons sitting in the front row seats begging for mercy, or looking to him begging for food. This might seem so unusual to him, that he may quickly retrieve his cell phone and call for law enforcement. Alternately, during the morning service imagine if we had a few people sitting in wheelchairs down one of our isles, and suddenly during our pastoral prayer, they might begin to shout out to God for mercy and healing. What do you imagine the pastor would do? What advice might the elders give him as they stand in shock? Friends, I believe that God got my attention this morning as I meditated on this Scripture, and caused me to look intently at what our churches have turned into. Can you see where it has become a place for those who are well? I know, we should go to church so that we might praise God for all that He has done in our lives, but when last do you remember doing that? If the worship songs hit you the right way, you might praise God, or if the preacher is excitable and super interesting, you might be encouraged to raise your hand in thanksgiving to God. Notice in our story that the blind man paid no attention to the demands of the people to be quiet, he wanted healing and he shouted to get the attention of Jesus, specifically for the purpose of his healing. Are you willing to ignore the expectation of the crowd and communicate your needs boisterously to the Creator of this earth, and of your very own being? I believe that Jesus is waiting for us to work through the structure we have built for our worship to Him, and actually see us humbly bow at His feet to ask for exactly what we need. This might also include a time where you might boldly bow before Him in thanksgiving for miracles wrought in your life, or the lives of your relatives. Oh that God may give us the boldness and strength to approach His throne even today as we recognize Him passing by.

PRAYER: Precious Lord, thank You for stopping the march you were on that day to speak to the needs of a blind man in need of a touch from You. Please help us to never be a stumbling block to anyone seeking an audience with You. The blind still exist today, and others with similar maladies. Please help Your church to always be prepared to help those in need of a Savior. Whether it’s helping them get to the front of the crowd – by helping them get to church, or whether it’s helping them stand before Your throne of grace where they may seek Your face and beg for a hand up. You spoke it in Your Word that You came for the sick and needy and not for the well. Oh that we may seek out the needy and help them meet You wherever You are. AMEN!

Looking For Ultimate Satisfaction in Life?

On By Ed AlgreenIn Answered Prayer, Appreciation, Needs, Praise, Recognize God, WorshipLeave a comment

Sunday, 2019-08-25

Bible Reference: Luke 18:18;20-22
Translation: Living Bible (TLB)

Bible Text: 18 Once a Jewish religious leader asked him this question: “Good sir, what shall I do to get to heaven?”
20 “But as to your question, you know what the Ten Commandments say—don’t commit adultery, don’t murder, don’t steal, don’t lie, honor your parents, and so on.” 21 The man replied, “I’ve obeyed every one of these laws since I was a small child.”
22 “There is still one thing you lack,” Jesus said. “Sell all you have and give the money to the poor—it will become treasure for you in heaven—and come, follow me.”

OBSERVATION: Consider the things the young man in our story had going for him. He was young; he was a Jewish leader; he was rich and he was a ‘good’ young man, as he told Jesus that he had obeyed godly commands every since he could remember. Yet something was missing in his life, and it wasn’t pretty women, more money or a better position in government. I wonder what things we tend to think is lacking in our lives? What else may bring greater satisfaction to us? What else might be lacking according to God’s standards? Let’s look for direction in this as we meditate on God’s Word today.

APPLICATION: We are often willing to sacrifice time with our family, and the time we spend in God’s work around His local church, so that we could work ungodly hours around work hoping to please our boss and possibly achieve a greater position at work, since that might lead to making more money. But at the end of our work-day, do we ever reflect on the satisfaction that extra commitment at work has brought to our family? Or do we use those awake hours at home to catch up on email and other tasks that we couldn’t get to during the day? At the end of the year, do we celebrate the extra money we made and saved from a year of hard work and dedication, or do we spend time celebrating our family, our church, and the growth in our relationship with our Creator and our Sustainer of life? Looking forward into the new year, do we reflect on how we might grow at work, grow our bank account, and excel in our job during the coming year, or do we look to God on how we might help our family grow closer to Him, and how we might sure up our relationship with Him as we prepare for our future home in Heaven with Him. I believe that the rich young ruler probably came to a crossroad in his life where he may have pondered scenarios similar to the above, because I could see some of the same traits in us today. As you meditate on this devotional, and hopefully click on the scripture link above, you will see in verse 17 of this same chapter, that Jesus taught that we are to assume an attitude and spirit like a child: humble; willing to accept what Jesus teaches us to do; and then follow in obedience to do what pleases the Father. He also taught us in verse 22 that there is nothing in this life that will bring us lasting happiness, or that adds to our assurance of a future in Heaven with our Lord and Savior. So should we not learn from this story of the rich young ruler, that the effort we place into our earthly plans and into pleasing mankind, only serves to lift up our boss, or our friends, or those that we tend to lift up on a pedestal, and does very little to please our Heavenly Father? Friends, I pray that we will be busy about our Father’s work, for I am convinced that He will return soon to take His bride home (His blood-bought church). What might be your response today, if asked why He should let you into His kingdom?

PRAYER: Precious Lord, thank You for loving me enough to sacrifice Your very Son on a cross so that I might enjoy eternity with You. I believe that many who will read this devotional today could join with me in sharing our appreciation of Your awesome love for us. You created us to show our love for others through our commitment to them and through the gifts that we give to them. Oh may that become our priority today and everyday towards the One who loves us more than life itself, and has prepared a home for us, where we will live for evermore with You and the Father! Please tender the hearts of Your children who have yet to accept You as Lord and Savior. May today be a time of celebration by the angels and many friends here on earth as they surrender their all to You! AMEN!

Persistent In Prayer

On By Ed AlgreenIn Answered Prayer, Appreciation, Needs, Praise, Recognize God, WorshipLeave a comment

Friday, 2019-08-23

Bible Reference: Luke 18:6-8
Translation: The Passion Translation (TPT)

Bible Text: 6 The Lord continued, “Did you hear what the ungodly judge said—that he would answer her persistent request? 7 Don’t you know that God, the true judge, will grant justice to all of his chosen ones who cry out to him night and day? He will pour out his Spirit upon them. He will not delay to answer you and give you what you ask for. 8 God will give swift justice to those who don’t give up. So be ever praying, ever expecting, just like the widow was with the judge. Yet when the Son of Man comes back, will he find this kind of persistent faithfulness in his people?”

OBSERVATION: Jesus used an earthly example to explain a question that many of us might have. Do we keep on praying for God’s help? The answer is included in today’s study. However, Jesus also challenges us to think about a very deep question regarding our persistent relationship with Him. Meditate with me as we reflect on the words of Jesus and seek to apply them to our own lives.

APPLICATION: Some believe that we should ask God only once about an issue we may be having. Others believe that we must keep on praying until we hear from God. I believe that God knew that we would have these types of questions, so He included the answer in His Book of Instructions for life (the Bible). An earthly king who had no regard for God or His people, gave in to the persistent request of a needy widow. Jesus reminds us that our God is much more tolerable than that mean king, so we should be assured that He will surely answer our persistent prayers. But Jesus dropped a very honest challenge on us, by reminding us to be faithful and persistent in prayer and in our relationship with Him. Friends, I believe that this is where the persistence of His children comes in, for it is way too easy for us to drift away after we receive what we want. Notice how filled our churches are after an impactful disaster? Churches were filled after 911, and in Florida, churches impacted by hurricanes are filled following the disaster, even if there is no electricity. A family impacted by the sudden loss of a loved one will attend church faithfully, at least for a while. But in every case, these dependencies on God decreases as the pain lessens. In other words, it seems like we have a decreased need for God. Unfortunately the vast majority of people will soon feel like life has returned to normal and they could resume handling their day-to-day needs and concerns without having to ‘bother’ God. But let’s stop and think for a moment about how we feel when someone has stuck around and been extraordinarily friendly with us, as long as we had the money to treat them to dinner, or buy them things, or take them places. Then suddenly one day we awake to find that our money is becoming limited. Unfortunately, it’s not long before we notice that those ‘friends’ have wandered off, and they seldom call of visit anymore. Now I know that God is much bigger than the pettiness of mankind, but according to the ending of verse 8, He is very aware that we tend to do the same thing with Him. Shouldn’t we stop to remind ourselves that the reason we are not running to God pleading for healing, is because He has blessed us with a time of well being and good health? Shouldn’t we stop to thank God that our money hasn’t run out, so we are able to purchase food and necessities? I could go on dear one, but I believe that like me, you probably get the point that God is our Father all of the time, so let us never forget Him. Our method of communicating with Him is through prayer and thanksgiving. Prayer includes seeking His direction & His wisdom; Thanking Him, as well as making our petitions know. So is there ever a time that we will not want to communicate with our Heavenly Father? God never forgets us! I pray that we will never forget Him!

PRAYER: Dear Lord Jesus, thank You for loving us unconditionally! Thank You for creating us uniquely so that we may serve You, honor You, worship You and depend on You for every aspect of life. We can’t imagine, nor would we want to experience life without You. In much the same way that we expect You to always be there for us, please help us to always communicate with You and seek communion with You every day and frequently throughout the day. Thank You for being an amazing, life-giving, healing and all-loving God to each of Your children. May we in turn bless You with all of our heart, soul and mind at all times! AMEN!

Reasons To Praise Our God?

On By Ed AlgreenIn Faithfulness, Loving-Kindness, WorshipLeave a comment

Monday, 2019-08-19

Bible Reference: Psalm 138:1-3
Translation: The Living Bible (TLB)

Bible Text:  1 Lord, with all my heart I thank you. I will sing your praises before the armies of angels. 2 I face your Temple as I worship, giving thanks to you for all your loving-kindness and your faithfulness, for your promises are backed by all the honor of your name. 3 When I pray, you answer me and encourage me by giving me the strength I need.

OBSERVATION: To worship the God of this universe, the One who created you and I, the One who listens to and responds to our every cry for help, should be a natural response for His created ones, but do we? Do you find yourself praising God in response to answered prayer? When You see God open doors and provide a means for you to move forward in life, do you praise Him for looking out for you? Today, let us take a moment to redirect our hearts and minds towards the God who makes all things possible for us!

APPLICATION:  In this Psalm we can see where David was touched by, or reminded of, the love of God and His undying faithfulness, and it triggered his worship of God. Notice that David said he faced the temple as he worshiped, but he didn’t wait until the next scheduled worship service where he could watch the praise team worship or the pastor rejoice over a passage of scripture that God spoke to him about. Friends please don’t get me wrong, each of these things I mentioned are important, but I truly believe that when we recognize the love of our God, when we feel His precious love for us individually and we realize that He is faithful to us in every aspect of our lives, then we will be moved to worship God on a very personal level. When we do that, I believe that our corporate worship services will take on a whole new dimension, for our churches will be filled with worshipers, not just Christians looking for a place to be electrified, or energized by a good worship leader or an awesome praise team. David goes on in these verses to say that he is reminded that all of the promises of God are backed by the honor of His holy name – the name above all names! He is also encouraged that the God of this universe answers his prayers and encourages him by giving him the strength that he needs to go on each day and live a strong and noble life for the Lord. These are all wonderful reminders for us to also worship our God, but this list is exhaustive, for I think of the wonders of nature that He places before me as I drive to work, the beauty of another sunrise, the blessing of rain, of cows and wildlife playing in the fields and pastures. Most of all, like David, I am amazed that the God of this universe takes time to listen to my prayers and answers/comforts my concerns. Who am I that a Kind should bleed and die for? Yet, I am convinced that He would have sacrificed himself on that old cruel cross – even if I was the only one in need of a Savior. He loved me that much, and it is no different in the love that my Savior has for each of you today friend. Worship Him! Thank Him! Recognize His goodness and never attribute His careful and deliberate love for you as mere chance or good luck. Make every effort to be a personal, worshiping believer, not just one looking for a place for corporate worship of the Savior who loves you personally so very much.

PRAYER: Father in heaven, You have given us so much reason to worship You from the depth of our heart. Please awaken Your saints from the sleep of laziness, or dependence on others and/or other influences to invoke a heart of worship within us. Please help us to rest from the busyness of this life long enough to reflect on Your goodness, Your love and Your undying faithfulness. The Psalmist has triggered our minds and reminded us of the awesome joy in lifting up praise and worship to You, may this be a day that our eyes will be opened to reflect on Your beauty and Your goodness and may we recommit to a personal relationship with the God of this universe who loves us personally and cares for us intimately. Thank You Father for loving and caring for even me. These things I ask of You in the precious name of Your Son, my Savior and King, Jesus. 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!