Rejoice! Our KING is Coming!

On 2024-04-032024-04-02 By Ed AlgreenIn A Lamp unto My Path, Adoration, Answered Prayer, Appreciation, Awesome God, Beyond Description, Blessing, Celebrate God, Needs, Praise, Praise-worthy, Recognize God, WorshipLeave a comment

DATE POSTED: Wednesday, April 3, 2024, and I was blessed to be at an Vrbo property near Lake City, FL when God inspired me to prepare this devotional. My Footnote will tell you how to find, read or listen to any and all episodes that I have shared over the years.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE FROM The Voice (VOICE) IS FOUND IN Isaiah 35:4-6

THE BIBLE TEXT IS: Tell those who worry, the anxious and fearful, “Take strength; have courage! There’s nothing to fear.… The balance is shifting; God will right all wrongs. None other than God will give you success. He is coming to make you safe.” Then, such healing, such repair: the eyes of the blind will be opened; the ears of the deaf will be clear. The lame will leap like deer excited; they will run and jump tirelessly and gracefully. The stutterer, the stammerer, and the tongue of the mute will sing out loud and clear in joyful song. Waters will pour through the deserts; streams will flow in godforsaken lands.

APPLICATION OF THE WORD: How many times have you questioned God about the handicap of some, and the misfortunes of others? How many times have you questioned God about why you must go through certain struggles that seem to pull you down unreasonably? The Israelites were forced into captivity in Egypt where they were reduced to slavery and extreme hardship. God sent them a deliverer who set them free and led them back to Jerusalem. But, because of their sin and rebellion they continued an uphill battle. Don’t we tend to see similar misfortune in our lives still today, friend of God? Have we discovered how enslaving this ongoing sin is, and the negative impact it is having on our lives? For those who have not recognized and accepted Jesus as King, or Lord of their lives, they may blame daily mishaps or trials and temptations as being ‘down on their luck’, or ‘just another bad day’. However when God spoke through His prophet, Isaiah, it is obvious that He desired that the people recognize God, their Creator, their Protector, and their forever King who will not only guide them to all righteousness here on earth, but will also rule and reign in heaven where His saints will gather to worship and adore Him forever! But the best news of all for myself, my readers, and fellow Christians today, is that this is also a picture of what we can expect as children of the King today! Yes, our forever home – Heaven, has been prepared for us! I know, friends, you are just like me, and you tire of all the sickness, death, crime, war, lies and mistrust and unrest here on earth. You therefore wonder if all this will ever come to an end. I believe that this is where our Scripture especially comes to life! For just as Isaiah encouraged the Israelites with this good news, we too can still find hope, strength and encouragement in the Lord, Jesus Christ. We just celebrated Easter – a time commemorating the life, death, crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus. The Bible tells us that the greater purpose of all this, was that Jesus followed the orders of His Father, who allowed this as a promise to all mankind, that whosoever believes in this Son of God – Jesus, will one day raise from the dead and live eternally with He and His Father – God, in heaven for all eternity. With this hope, also comes the assurance that God will love on us, protect us, care for us, guide us, and teach us to be His example here on earth, until He calls us home. There is hope, my friend, for those who trust in Jesus! Do you know Him today? If not, I encourage you to read the tips in my Footnote on how to find, accept and know Jesus as your Savior and Lord. I am convinced that there is no greater decision you can make today, than to know for sure that you belong to Jesus, and that He is your soon coming King!

PRAYER BECAUSE OF THE IMPACT OF TODAY’S SCRIPTURE: Thank You Lord Jesus for the assurance given to us today that You are still available to us and that You will come and reign in our lives, should we agree to let go of earthly, but empty, promises and misfortunes. The Bible says that You have gone to prepare a place for us – our place for all eternity with You, Your Father and the Holy Spirit. There is nothing on earth that compares to that, so I pray that You will tender every heart that reads this devotional today and are reminded of Your love. Please convince them of the need for the Savior, and the bright hope of tomorrow, as His child. May those who have accepted You, be on a daily mission to give You full control, so that You may minister through us to reach the lost and unconvinced of their need for You. AMEN!

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

Lesson From Jesus Under Intense Pressure

On 2024-04-02 By Ed AlgreenIn A Lamp unto My Path, Adoration, Answered Prayer, Appreciation, Awesome God, Beyond Description, Blessing, Celebrate God, Needs, Praise, Praise-worthy, Recognize God, WorshipLeave a comment

DATE POSTED: Tuesday, April 2, 2024, and I was blessed to be at a Vrbo property in Lake City, FL when God inspired me to prepare this devotional. My Footnote will tell you how to find, read or listen to any and all episodes that I have shared over the years.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE FROM THE Amplified Bible (AMP) IS FOUND IN Luke 23:33-37

THE BIBLE TEXT IS: When they came to the place called The Skull, there they crucified Him and the criminals, one on the right and one on the left. And Jesus was saying, “Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing.” … Now the people stood by, watching; but even the rulers ridiculed and sneered at Him, saying, “He saved others [from death]; let Him save Himself if He is the Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed) of God, His Chosen One.” The soldiers also mocked Him, coming up to Him and [cruelly] offering Him sour wine, and sarcastically saying, “If you are [really] the King of the Jews, save Yourself [from death]!”

APPLICATION OF THE WORD: My prayer is that many of my readers may have heard this Scripture read at least once over this past weekend. But although I did, the Holy Spirit still keenly spoke to me today as I meditated on this Scripture. How much improvement is needed in our character to come close to what Jesus taught in His experience? It seems like our family and friends are going to extremes to get back at each other, because something was said against them, or perhaps not quite in the right tone. People are being murdered because they accidentally cut someone off in traffic. People are quitting churches because the pastor can no longer afford quality time with them, or the elders are encouraging new members instead of recognizing all that the older members give financially. Be reminded dear friends that Jesus had been arrested by the Jewish authorities, even though He never committed a crime. He was taken before Herod and also Pilate and neither could find any fault in Him, yet because of the hatred of the Jewish leaders, Jesus was ordered to crucifixion so that a murderer, Barabas, could be set free. Jesus was repeatedly beaten and abused as if He was a murderer, He was forced to carry His own cross to Calvary in spite of His worn out body. In the midst of His mother and other followers, His beatings continued, while being mocked and ridiculed and pierced with huge nails to a wooden cross. And then, even in spite of all that had transpired, Jesus looked to his Father and asked for forgiveness of the hateful and cruel men assigned to His crucifixion. Remember, this is the same Jesus who performed miracle after miracle, as recorded in the New Testament, so we know that a simple command could have reversed every evil action that day. What would you have wished on your accusers and abusers? Be reminded how upset and vindictive you get over much less, by those who cross your path. How might they be affected if you followed in the example of Jesus and asked God to forgive them? When we say that we’re a child of the King, seeking to do His will and follow in His example – do we truly know what that entails? Oh that we will keep our eyes fixed on Jesus and submit our will to His, so that He might mold us and make us His disciples who will be His witness here on earth.

PRAYER BECAUSE OF THE IMPACT OF TODAY’S SCRIPTURE: Lord, we are humbled and reminded of how much You willingly endured for our sake at Calvary, and we are forever grateful. Based on our actions, I believe that so many of us need a very special touch from You to enable a humble spirit, and one that looks first at what the God of this universe wants of us, before we acts based on selfish desires and personal benefits. Please help us to stay so in tune with You so that we will learn to act based on Your will, Your desire for us, and the benefit it all will have on the KIngdom. May we be willing at say, and accept, the words of Jesus – not my will oh Lord, but may Your perfect will be fulfilled in us. Please brush aside our selfishness, pride and greed so that we can concentrate fully on Your will and desire for us, and those that we come into contact with. AMEN!

Ultimate Resolve For Your Challenges/Worries

On 2024-03-30 By Ed AlgreenIn A Lamp unto My Path, Adoration, Answered Prayer, Appreciation, Awesome God, Beyond Description, Blessing, Celebrate God, Needs, Praise, Praise-worthy, Recognize God, WorshipLeave a comment

DATE POSTED: Saturday, March 30, 2024, and I was blessed to be at Advent Christian Village, Dowling Park, FL when God inspired me to prepare this devotional. My Footnote will tell you how to find, read or listen to any and all episodes that I have shared over the years.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE FROM THE New Living Translation (NLT) IS FOUND IN Isaiah 43:1-3

THE BIBLE TEXT IS: …the one who formed you says, “Do not be afraid, for I have ransomed you. I have called you by name; you are mine. When you go through deep waters, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown. When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you. For I am the Lord, your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior….

APPLICATION OF THE WORD: It seems that many individuals will take different routes to relieve tensions around unresolved challenges they face or the worries that tend to bother them incessantly. Isaiah had a message for the Israelites to help them in their worry about getting out from under the cruel slavery of Egypt. When they discovered that their leader (Moses) would be a mere man like they were, they became even more concerned about how he could possibly get so many of them safely across the desert alive. When in the middle of some of the most complex challenges like crossing the Red Sea or finding food and/or water for so many, they were terrified. When told to act, and takeover the lands gifted to them by God, they were convinced that they must have been crazy to allow themselves to get to this stage. But Isaiah had a word for them from the King of all kings and Lord of all lords. And before we meditate on this reassuring message from the Lord, let’s take a moment to remind ourselves how similar we still are to the Israelites. My dad was worried sick over his oldest son moving hundreds of miles from him in his old age – a time when parents normally need their children nearby. Yet within a year, he sat in my home after going through a heart procedure that saved his life, and he praised God for letting him see why it was His will for me to make that move, for he was misdiagnosed, and was therefore being mistreated, by his doctors near him. Through the tragic death of a relative, my dad’s heart was softened and his eyes opened to the salvation offered by Christ alone. A pastor once told that in the midst of fierce battle, and in the trenches of warfare, he promised God that he would serve Him the rest of his life, if He would protect and save him from the enemy. This pastor, while serving in a small church in Central Florida, was instrumental in helping me, and many others, draw close to God and serve Him faithfully. No doubt, there are many challenges that come your way almost on a daily basis. Dear friends, I am convinced that God wants us all to know that He brought His Son into this world miraculously, so that when we search for a better life, a less stressful life, a more peaceful life where we could spend eternity with our creator, then we will know without a doubt that Jesus is the answer to our dilemma. In searching, we admit that we don’t have the answer, just as the Israelites had no idea how they could be freed from slavery. I love verse 7 of this 43rd chapter of Isaiah, for God said ‘Bring all who claim me as their God, for I have made them for my glory. It was I who created them.’ When life seems overwhelming to you and circumstances seem more than you could handle, don’t worry, reach out and discover the peace of knowing Jesus Christ as Lord of your life, for God created you for His glory. Listen to the voice of God as He calls you by name, trust in Him as He leads you through the deep waters of earthly struggles and leads you through the rivers and obstacles of life. For He cares for you and no one can snatch you from His hands, nor His promises for you. There is hope dear friend, and it lies in the love and promises of the only One you can truly trust to open the doors of heaven and allow you access to the Father. This is our Promised Land, I look forward to seeing you there my friend!

PRAYER BECAUSE OF THE IMPACT OF TODAY’S SCRIPTURE: Thank You Lord for opening our eyes to the resolve available through Jesus, Your precious Son. Yes, we are often overwhelmed with life’s challenges and we worry when things are not going just as we planned. But please Lord, open our eyes to see that You are the One with Your ultimate plan for us – in life here on earth, and in the life to come when we transition to the glories of heaven with You. Please make Your Word clear to those who are searching, that this promise is designed for those who invite You into their lives and allow You to be Lord of everything, every day. Way too often we tend to depend on man made conditions, like being good enough, or giving more than the next person in our circle of friends. Help us Lord to know You and have a personal relationship with You, so that You might point out the way to eternal life and the path necessary to avoid the bumps and bruises of Satan that could easily trip us up. Praise God we were created for Your glory oh Lord. Please, may this be evident in our daily lives so that others may see, be encouraged and determined to also follow You. AMEN!

Where To Turn When In Doubt

On 2024-03-27 By Ed AlgreenIn A Lamp unto My Path, Adoration, Answered Prayer, Appreciation, Awesome God, Beyond Description, Blessing, Celebrate God, Needs, Praise, Praise-worthy, Recognize God, WorshipLeave a comment

DATE POSTED: Wednesday, March 27, 2024, and I was blessed to be at Advent Christian Village, Dowling Park, FL when God inspired me to prepare this devotional. My Footnote will tell you how to find, read or listen to any and all episodes that I have shared over the years.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE FROM THE New Living Translation (NLT) IS FOUND IN Isaiah 40:28-31

THE BIBLE TEXT IS: ….The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of all the earth. He never grows weak or weary. No one can measure the depths of his understanding. He gives power to the weak and strength to the powerless. Even youths will become weak and tired, and young men will fall in exhaustion. But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.

APPLICATION OF THE WORD: In the verses preceding our focal Scripture, Jacob and Israel had showed some doubt about whether God is still watching over them. And that’s not a strange phenomenon, for whenever life is not going like we expect or want, we also tend to feel like God has abandoned us. But Isaiah used this as an opportunity to remind them, and us, that we serve a mighty God, One that has no equal, and He stands in a category all by Himself. Friends, I am convinced that we can only understand and truly appreciate the power of this God who created the universe and each of us, if we truly ‘trust in the Lord’ as stated in the above Scripture. However, I believe it is important for us to remember that this is not a trust that we gain from the relationship that our Christian parents spoke of when they were alive and faithfully trusted in God. It is not a trust that we gain from attending church a few times per year, nor from what we heard our pastor speak of the last time we attended church. Just as faith comes from hearing and believing the Word of God, trust comes from a personal relationship with the Master. A relationship where we read His Word and meditate on it daily; from conversation (prayer) on a regular basis; from trusting in God for even the little things of life; believing in His mighty power and His answer to our prayers; a consistent reminder of His love and His power as He answers our prayers that gives us reason to build a repertoire that we could use as a basis for our trust. We find in this world that ‘trust’ is earned. I believe that based on the Word of God and the many ways that our God has proven Himself worthy, and in the experience of many that we come into contact with, we have a basis for finding our God faithful and trustworthy. So let’s seriously consider accepting Jesus as our Lord and Savior, if this has not already been done. Then let’s develop a committed relationship with Jesus, and start trusting Him to do what He said He would do. The Bible said that we will find new strength. We will soar high on wings like eagles. We will run and not grow weary. We will walk and not faint! Praise God that He is worthy, He is faithful, He is trustworthy, and He will accept us as His very own! There’s no god like my God, dear friend!

PRAYER BECAUSE OF THE IMPACT OF TODAY’S SCRIPTURE: Glorious Jesus and Almighty God, what an awesome and mighty God I serve! Thank You Lord for loving on me, watching over me, healing me, protecting me and guiding me through all the complexities of this life. Your Word became light to me today as You reminded me of these strong qualities that assures me of Your trustworthy character. Lord, through this devotional I am presenting my thoughts to the public, so I pray that You will do Your work in having the right person read these words today and use them to brighten and transform their lives. This world and its leader (Satan) is tough on Your children, and many are stressing out more than ever before. You know how badly they need one more reminder of Your grace Lord, so I ask that You use this simple explanation of Your word through Your prophet Isaiah to encourage them and draw them to Yourself. Have Your own way in my life and the lives of those reading this devotional, for Your glory. AMEN!

What Fault Do You Find in Jesus?

On 2024-03-26 By Ed AlgreenIn A Lamp unto My Path, Adoration, Answered Prayer, Appreciation, Awesome God, Beyond Description, Blessing, Celebrate God, Needs, Praise, Praise-worthy, Recognize God, WorshipLeave a comment

DATE POSTED: Tuesday, March 26, 2024, and I was blessed to be at Advent Christian Village, Dowling Park, FL when God inspired me to prepare this devotional. My Footnote will tell you how to find, read or listen to any and all episodes that I have shared over the years.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE FROM THE Living Bible (TLB) IS FOUND IN Luke 23:15-21

THE BIBLE TEXT IS: Herod came to the same conclusion and sent him back to us—nothing this man has done calls for the death penalty. I will therefore have him scourged with leaded thongs and release him.
But now a mighty roar rose from the crowd as with one voice they shouted. “Kill him, and release Barabbas to us!” (Barabbas was in prison for starting an insurrection in Jerusalem against the government, and for murder.)
Pilate argued with them, for he wanted to release Jesus.
But they shouted, “Crucify him! Crucify him!”

APPLICATION OF THE WORD: I believe it is extremely challenging for most of us today to even think of crucifixion. Perhaps if the crime was hideous enough, some of us might agree to capital punishment that leads to death, but the charges against Jesus was not hideous, nor extreme. This ‘Holy Week’ is a time for us to think about what happened to our Lord, so this Scripture seems timely, yet no easier for us to understand why such punishment seemed necessary, or appropriate, for our Lord. Notice that Herod nor Pilate saw any fault with Jesus, especially nothing that would warrant His crucifixion. But as we look at this Biblical story, we must recognize that the people in this crowd who pushed for Jesus’s crucifixion were made up of folk just like you and me, together with our family, friends and coworkers. So I wonder if we should try to place where we would be in this crowd, if this was happening today. When a crowd is incited like this, there are some who lead the crowd and incite the people to become more militant. There are some in the crowd who may feel a little unsure that they are doing the right thing, so they may stand towards the back of the crowd unsure when, or if, they will join in the riot. After all, the rioters could have been arrested for their out-of-control behavior. But also notice that there were many who may not have been a part of this crowd, for whatever reason. Included in this absentee group may have been followers of Jesus who were gathered in deep prayer for the safety and ultimate sound decision on the fate of Jesus. The remainder of this group were probably folk who couldn’t care less what happened. This latter group might be similar to a group today who knows that Jesus loves them and cares for them, but have chosen to remain uncommitted to serving Him, attending church, or even talking about Godly things in the presence of others. These are the folk who stand by and accept everything that Satan throws at them, and/or their family, community, or leaders and perhaps even accuse some as being deserving of such evil acts. Neighbors could adore, love, worship and share Jesus with everyone, but don’t dare step into their yard to tell them what they need to hear. This last group was probably comfortable with hearing that Pilate gave in to the crowd and ordered the crucifixion of an innocent man, because they just couldn’t be bothered to get involved. Where would you be if this was the scene happening down at your courthouse today? Will you fight, or stand firm, to the end for the One who surrendered His very own life so that your sin might be forgiven, allowing you access into heaven? Are you actively involved in a relationship with Jesus so that your heart may be touched, and your misdeeds pointed out to you? God detailed His plan for us – His design for a life that is holy and pure before Him. Let’s be devoted to daily reading of His Word so that we might be reminded of God’s will for us, and that our sins might be brought to light. Let’s be ready to seek Jesus and His righteousness, to ask for His forgiveness of our sin; direct us in the path that He has set out for us; and be ready to promote the life and character of Jesus through the life that we live.

PRAYER BECAUSE OF THE IMPACT OF TODAY’S SCRIPTURE: Lord Jesus, thank You for continuing on to complete the work You did at Calvary for our benefit, especially after hearing the very people rant and rage that You had created, and for whom You were about to make an ultimate sacrifice for. Often when we are finding fault with someone, we will refuse to be in their presence, not want to hear their loving advice, nor have anything good to say about them. This was obviously the case of those condemning You to die, but it seems ever so evident that Your people today do the same thing. Please Lord, reignite a fire within us that will open our eyes to Your love and Your sacrifice. May we have a renewed desire to be with You daily and at church services where other believers aim to do the same thing. May Your Word become our daily companion, our guide book for life, and our place of reference for every decision in life. Please help us to work out any fault that we find in You, so that our relationship may remain pure and undefiled. AMEN!

Your Response To God’s Decisions

On 2024-03-24 By Ed AlgreenIn A Lamp unto My Path, Adoration, Answered Prayer, Appreciation, Awesome God, Beyond Description, Blessing, Celebrate God, Needs, Praise, Praise-worthy, Recognize God, WorshipLeave a comment

DATE POSTED: Sunday, March 24, 2024, and I was blessed to be at Advent Christian Village, Dowling Park, FL when God inspired me to prepare this devotional. My Footnote will tell you how to find, read or listen to any and all episodes that I have shared over the years.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE FROM THE New International Version (NIV) IS FOUND IN Isaiah 38:1-3

THE BIBLE TEXT IS: …“This is what the Lord says: Put your house in order, because you are going to die; you will not recover.”
Hezekiah turned his face to the wall and prayed to the Lord,“Remember, Lord, how I have walked before you faithfully and with wholehearted devotion and have done what is good in your eyes.” And Hezekiah wept bitterly.

APPLICATION OF THE WORD: “I’m glad it was you, because I’m not sure how I would have reacted to that”! Isn’t that what we would normally say when we’ve been dealt a blow like the one Hezekiah was dealt? But as we meditate on this powerful passage of Scripture today, we must see that Hezekiah had several options: (1) The response he actually gave in response to the message Isaiah brought to Him from God, or (2) he could have thrown up his hands, lied in his bed and waited for his final breath. OR, (3) he could have become bitter to the decision by God to end his life. Which option sounds more like your character? To choose (1), you would have taken a few minutes to reflect on your life and ministry then, knowing that you were actually speaking to the God who knows your heart, mind, soul and the very thoughts that wander through that mind of yours, you would have to decide if you could honestly respond like Hezekiah. Perhaps having grown up to revere the voice of God as our final authority, some of us would not feel at ease asking God to reconsider His decision, but in an intimate, personal relationship with our Creator, hopefully we’ve become comfortable with two-way conversations with God – in prayer. How many would have chosen option (2)? God said it, I believe it, that settles it! All very true, but again, in a personal and intimate relationship with the Master, would you not even consider asking God about this decision to end the life of His faithful servant? Hopefully, not many of us would assume the last option I mentioned, (3). However, since some believers resort to anger when life is not going exactly how they had mapped it out, there are some who might choose to have their final party, or make their final big trip, or just leave the church since God is brushing you aside like He would an unbeliever. Friends, I pray that God will open our eyes to see that we serve a great, big, wonderful God, however He is never too big, or too far away, or heartless, to not listen to the cry of His faithful servants – His son or His daughter who loves Him intimately with all their heart. I don’t believe that God is in the practice of changing His mind about things every time we want our own way, butI do believe that in His sweet relationship with us, He will listen to our heart’s cry and work with us for our good and His glory. The case of Hezekiah revolved around his death sentence. In our case, we might be dealing with a job sentence, or divorce, or financial challenges or losing a loved one. Please allow me to challenge us today to maintain a sweet, intimate, personal, daily relationship with the Lord Jesus, and be prepared to discuss with Him the desires, hurts, challenges and victories of our heart. He has a place already prepared for us, and I believe that He always wants His very best for His children, no matter how dismal things may look to us here on earth! I am reminded of the words of Samuel when he was called on my God, he said ‘Speak Lord, for thy servant heareth’. Oh that we would be that submissive.

PRAYER BECAUSE OF THE IMPACT OF TODAY’S SCRIPTURE: Lord, I pray that our daily communion with You will be so vital, so sweet and so meaningful, that we will search our hearts and be ready to follow Your commands and share the concerns, joys and celebrations with You. Thank You for loving us so much to be concerned about our every care, yet willing to listen to our feedback and concerns. Please train us to be more like You in every way, every day. Thank You for the examples shared with us through Your Word, as in the case of Hezekiah. I pray that each reader or listener will be open to sharing back with You, just as they would to almost any other friend or colleague. Please continue to train us in the way we should go, so that the lost and doubtful will see Jesus at work in us, and believe. AMEN!

You Know Him Already

On 2024-03-22 By Ed AlgreenIn A Lamp unto My Path, Adoration, Answered Prayer, Appreciation, Awesome God, Beyond Description, Blessing, Celebrate God, Needs, Praise, Praise-worthy, Recognize God, WorshipLeave a comment

DATE POSTED: Friday, March 22, 2024, and I was blessed to be at Advent Christian Village, Dowling Park, FL when God inspired me to prepare this devotional. My Footnote will tell you how to find, read or listen to any and all episodes that I have shared over the years.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE FROM THE Living Bible (TLB) IS FOUND IN Hebrews 8:10-11

THE BIBLE TEXT IS: ….I will write my laws in their minds so that they will know what I want them to do without my even telling them, and these laws will be in their hearts so that they will want to obey them, and I will be their God and they shall be my people. And no one then will need to speak to his friend or neighbor or brother, saying, ‘You, too, should know the Lord,’ because everyone, great and small, will know me already.

APPLICATION OF THE WORD: The Old Testament is known for instructions given to man on what he should do, while the New Testament is known for telling us what God will do. Throughout our lifetime, we will encounter friends, coworkers and perhaps even relatives where we will wonder how could they possibly be so blind to the love and work of God. They may try to tell us how much they hate the church, and how impossible it is to believe that God is real. But then we see circumstances come before them, that may cause them to ask us to have our pastor pray for them, or visit their dying relative, or encourage their son in prison. This sudden change in attitude causes us to wonder what must have changed in their hearts. But then God places Scripture before us, like this one we are meditating on today. The writer of Hebrews felt the need to revive the words God spoke to Jeremiah and recorded in Jeremiah 31:31-34. It became evident to me as I meditated on this reminder today, that I needed to hear these words again, as is probably the case with you. When mankind simply attends church to fulfill a traditional habit/obligation, he will often leave the church without ever having a personal encounter with the God who created everything and who sacrificed His very own Son so that we might seek the glories of heaven and fellowship with the Creator Himself. However, I have found it extremely rewarding to see how God will suddenly stir up deep inside of us a need for a touch from Himself. Often it seems worthless how our words and actions seem to affect the unbeliever, yet God will choose something that appears very insignificant to us, but life changing to the unbeliever, to stir up the gift of salvation and/or revival in the heart of that stubborn one who chose to do life his own way. A pastor once told of a parishioner who acknowledged he hadn’t been to church lately, and questioned why he hadn’t come after him. The pastor responded that was not his job, for the New Covenant says you already know what you should have been doing because the Lord wrote His will on your heart!
Please Lord, make us keenly aware of the knowledge and peace You have placed within us. Help us to ignore the many, many weird beliefs that Satan tends to place in the way of Your people and help us instead to keep our eyes fixed on You as our current Lord and everlasting Father.

PRAYER BECAUSE OF THE IMPACT OF TODAY’S SCRIPTURE: Each day, and every hour, we make choices on who we will follow, the divine and holy will of God, or the evil, hateful, envious and wicked ways of Satan. You created us Lord, and You proved your unconditional love for us by providing the only sacrifice worthy of forgiveness of our sin, and acceptable to the Father for entry into heaven. You did this while we were still sinners without respect for the work of God, our Creator. The Scripture is clear that You have burned Your will into our hearts, so our evil actions are in strict defiance to the good You have shown to us, and placed prominently in our hearts. Please Lord, impress upon us each day Your love and Your holy and righteous will You have placed within us to guide us to eternal peace with You and the Father. AMEN!

Follow The Example Jesus in Responding

On 2024-03-21 By Ed AlgreenIn A Lamp unto My Path, Adoration, Answered Prayer, Appreciation, Awesome God, Beyond Description, Blessing, Celebrate God, Needs, Praise, Praise-worthy, Recognize God, WorshipLeave a comment

DATE POSTED: Thursday, March 21, 2024, and I was blessed to be at Advent Christian Village, Dowling Park, FL when God inspired me to prepare this devotional. My Footnote will tell you how to find, read or listen to any and all episodes that I have shared over the years.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE FROM THE New Living Translation (NLT) IS FOUND IN Luke 23:2-5

THE BIBLE TEXT IS: They began to state their case: “This man has been leading our people astray by telling them not to pay their taxes to the Roman government and by claiming he is the Messiah, a king.”
So Pilate asked him, “Are you the king of the Jews?”
Jesus replied, “You have said it.”
Pilate turned to the leading priests and to the crowd and said, “I find nothing wrong with this man!”
Then they became insistent. “But he is causing riots by his teaching wherever he goes—all over Judea, from Galilee to Jerusalem!”

APPLICATION OF THE WORD: Something, or shall I say someone, kept nagging at me about the response of Jesus to Pilate, the Roman governor. After a few days pondering the response of my Lord, I feel like the Holy Spirit gave me something to seriously meditate on and share with you. Think about it, what do we normally try to achieve in responding to criticism or accusation about something we’ve said or done? Of course we try to right our situation and clear up any misunderstanding we feel others may have about us. Often we feel we must add our ‘2 cents’, even if it’s only to clarify what our accusers, or judge, say about us. Jesus was definitely in this position, for His accusers chose to take His teaching as total opposition to what they felt their government leaders were trying to achieve. Pilate recapped what he thought he was hearing from the accusers of Jesus, and he tried to validate that opinion with Jesus. But this is where the awesome lesson comes in for us! Notice that Jesus didn’t try to add clarification to what He was being accused of, nor did He see the need to correct Pilate about his conclusion. Instead, Jesus surrendered to accepting the words of Pilate. I’ve said something similar before – ‘if you say so’, but way too often we tend to feel like we need to throw in our ‘2 cents’ with hopes that it would improve our position, or better explain our actions. Often, opening our mouths serve to provoke our accusers to dig their heels in and stick with their accusations. Another important aspect of this Scripture is that the accusers found reason to judge Jesus for what he believed. When last were you accused of a solid biblical belief that you felt must be shared with the crowd in which you found yourself, even if you knew it would trigger a fiery response from them? Don’t we normally try to meld into the crowd to avoid confrontation or difference in opinion about our belief vs theirs? Let’s take this one step further, if the authorities walked into your Sunday School class, or your church worship service, what might they want to bring charges on? Is the truth of God’s Word only shared, depending on who’s in the audience? Aren’t we very careful not to ‘rock the boat’ with local authorities for fear of losing our government tax exempt status, or necessary licenses? But what about your personal response to controversy? How will you respond to controversial issues, knowing how your local ministry might be impacted, yet knowing that Jesus is also analyzing your response to clarify where you actually stand with Him? I feel like it is important for us to be reminded that our God is always aware of our words, actions and thoughts. Our response to life circumstance must meet with His approval, regardless of the consequences that may be triggered by local authorities. They need to know where we truly stand as children of God, but how easily we unfortunately crumble under the strain of their presence in our midst. If we trust in God to meet our needs, then we must truly trust in Him to support our stand as a genuine child of the King, God being our Helper and Guide. We may often say in a ‘safe’ environment that we are a ‘Christian’, but do you suppose that Jesus sees enough evidence to conclude a ‘guilty’ sentence? Those around you are looking for the evidence, when you tell them your’e a Christian. Do you suppose they are convinced?

PRAYER BECAUSE OF THE IMPACT OF TODAY’S SCRIPTURE: Lord Jesus, You stood the ultimate test of time when You were taken before the authorities, and treated, and questioned like a criminal, in spite of the genuine life You lived and poured out in sacrifice and love for our sake. Most Christians today will never face the tests and accusations that You faced, yet we are often tested and tried to prove our stance on Christianity, and our relationship with the Son of God. Oh Lord God, may our convictions be true, and our lives a living sacrifice and testimony of the God we serve. May the Holy Spirit always guide us to all truth, no matter the earthly circumstances we find ourselves in. May others see and witness Jesus in all aspects of our lives, God being our guide, protector and sustainer. AMEN!

Your Faith and Strength in God Will Sustain You

On 2024-02-10 By Ed AlgreenIn A Lamp unto My Path, Adoration, Answered Prayer, Appreciation, Awesome God, Beyond Description, Blessing, Celebrate God, Needs, Praise, Praise-worthy, Recognize God, WorshipLeave a comment

DATE POSTED: Saturday, February 10, 2024, and I was blessed to be at Advent Christian Village, Dowling Park, FL when God inspired me to prepare this devotional. My Footnote will tell you how to find, read or listen to any and all episodes that I have shared over the years.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE FROM The Voice (VOICE) IS FOUND IN Proverbs 24:10

THE BIBLE TEXT IS: If you fall apart during a crisis, then you weren’t very strong to begin with.

APPLICATION OF THE WORD: I am convinced that the Holy Spirit wanted me to spend some time on this verse today. Perhaps one of the shortest in the whole chapter, and definitely one of the bluntest for us to accept, but it sure is impactful. There are so many Bible references and hymns of the faith that refer to the power of God, and I believe that we hang on to that because we know that we are minimally strong when things are going great in our lives, but this Scripture verse precisely describes us when things get stressful or tough, for we tend to fall apart. I wonder why?? Perhaps too often we pray for an easier, wealthier, and more successful life, rather than asking God to make us a stronger child of the King who can accept and deal with all circumstances of life that may confront us. Trials don’t make or break a person. They’re simply a gauge to show you where you’re at in your walk with the Lord. In Jeremiah12:5, God addressed this when He said: ‘If you are worn out after only running with a few men, how will you one day compete against horses? If you stumble on the easy terrain, how will you manage in the thick brush near the Jordan?’ Friends, in other words, if you’re exhausted by the problem facing you today, what will you do when even bigger problems come your way? Whatever I’m going through today is strengthening me for what will come tomorrow. 2024 came in with a bang for me, with trials, medical, finances, etc., it was enough for me to seek the face of the Master and question what it is that He desires of me to do differently in my life. But as I continue in the Word of God, I find refreshment that my God is waiting for me to open the doors of my heart so that He might open the floodgates of heaven to supply all my needs, guide me through all my challenges, and renew such a spirit of holiness in me that others might be touched by the power of my God, and overwhelmed with a desire to know Him in new and beneficial ways that might return glory, honor and praise to Him. Oh, that our strength might be renewed so that we may face our present challenges with such boldness and faith, that God will do even more to prepare us for what lies ahead! With God as my strength, I have nothing to fear! How about you, how do you deal with the extraordinary and stressful things of life? If you know my Jesus, then this devotional is for you. If not, then I believe this devotional will prompt you to a knowledge and acceptance of my Jesus, so that you too may depend on him in all circumstances of life. Please read on to my Footnote, where you will find tips on leading you to Jesus.

PRAYER BECAUSE OF THE IMPACT OF TODAY’S SCRIPTURE: Lord, I am convinced that You can do all things, and because of Your love for me, I ask that You give me ongoing faith to depend on You for today, while accepting of everything You will provide to help me through tomorrow. You are my Rock and my everlasting strength, dear Lord. Please continue to work out Your plan in my life so that I may be obedient to Your direction and accepting of Your love and protection in all circumstances of life. Many who will read this devotional are probably in a similar situation as I opened up about already. Please show Yourself to us and give us the faith and humbleness we need to call on You, depend on You, and trust You for everything that might come our way. AMEN!

Looking For Someone Greater

On 2024-02-07 By Ed AlgreenIn A Lamp unto My Path, Adoration, Answered Prayer, Appreciation, Awesome God, Beyond Description, Blessing, Celebrate God, Needs, Praise, Praise-worthy, Recognize God, WorshipLeave a comment

DATE POSTED: Wednesday, February 7, 2024, and I was blessed to be at Advent Christian Village, Dowling Park, FL when God inspired me to prepare this devotional. My Footnote will tell you how to find, read or listen to any and all episodes that I have shared over the years.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE FROM THE New Living Translation (NLT) IS FOUND IN Hebrews 7:24-26

THE BIBLE TEXT IS: But because Jesus lives forever, his priesthood lasts forever. Therefore he is able, once and forever, to save those who come to God through him. He lives forever to intercede with God on their behalf. He is the kind of high priest we need because he is holy and blameless, unstained by sin. He has been set apart from sinners and has been given the highest place of honor in heaven.

APPLICATION OF THE WORD: You may be one of the many Christians who have been tempted to quit attending church, because you may have heard so many things about church leaders – their failures and public sin, and serious questions may have arisen about whether you should waste your time. But our Scripture today reminds us that Jesus is still King above all kings, and Lord above all lords! In previous verses, the Bible explains how previous priests may have failed and/or discontinued their ministry because of death. However, in our focal verses we can better understand why Jesus is our ultimate choice in choosing a spiritual leader that can help us navigate through life here on earth and lead us to a better place when we pass from this life to our eternal home. If you walked into a church, or if you met a church leader out in the world, you would probably have expected to experience the love and example of everything you ever heard about Jesus and/or His Father (God). In our Scripture verses, we can better understand why Jesus was so much more than previous priests chosen by their respective churches, and I believe this is worthy of note for us, so that we don’t expect too much of our Christian leaders. Our minds should be fixed on their leader and our ultimate High Priest, Jesus Christ, who is head of His church. You see, when we fix our minds on the purpose for which we want comfort, or healing, or uplifting, or someone to meet our needs, we know that we need someone superior to us and who cares for mankind way more than any other human being could possibly do. The writer of Hebrews helps us understand why it is that Jesus is superior to the high priests of Jesus’ day. They only lasted for a time, because they were not invincible. Compared to Jesus, who we need, because He is holy; blameless; unstained by sin; set apart from sinners; and now sits at the right hand of the Father, in His place of honor, petitioning for us. Is there any comparison to those we look to as pastor, priest or spiritual leader? NO there is no comparison, so while these earthly spiritual leaders are tasked with the responsibility of sharing the good news of Jesus Christ with us, we must always bear in mind that they are human, just like us, and therefore subject to sin as long as they remain on this earth. Dear friends, while it behooves us to associate with, worship together with, and sit under the teaching of our spiritual leaders, we must always aim to live like, love like, and follow in obedience the teachings of, our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and His Father – God Almighty. Let’s aim to fix our minds on the things of Christ and live like He did while on earth, and the teachings of our Father as detailed in the Word of God. We will be much too busy in our efforts to keep self righteous and holy, that we will not have time to look at the failures and faults of others.

PRAYER BECAUSE OF THE IMPACT OF TODAY’S SCRIPTURE: Precious Lord, thank You for Your Word – a light unto our path and filled with instruction for our everyday walk here on earth. Without You, it seems like we are prone to failure and sin, but we are reminded once again that we serve a God, and a Savior, who is far greater than we are, yet desires relationship with us. Thank You Father, Son and Holy Spirit for not giving up on me. Having called me out of my lost condition and into the Kingdom of Light, with heaven as my anticipated home in glory! Please Lord, continue to prick my conscience on any thought, action or word that may not be pleasing to You, and please do the same for every reader who will happen across this devotional. Our ultimate goal is to be with You in glory some sweet day, and we ask that You help us to live obedient, holy and righteous lives until the day You call us home, so that others will be influenced for the Kingdom. Be glorified in and through us Lord, for Your honor and glory. AMEN!

Nuggets From God's Word

Tag: Jesus