Tag: Nuggets

Pay Attention Folk

On By Ed AlgreenIn Faith, Rewards, Trust2 Comments

Monday, 2019-02-11

Bible Reference: Matthew 13:41-43
Translation: Contemporary English Version (CEV)

Bible Text:  41 The Son of Man will send out his angels, and they will gather from his kingdom everyone who does wrong or causes others to sin. 42 Then he will throw them into a flaming furnace, where people will cry and grit their teeth in pain. 43 But everyone who has done right will shine like the sun in their Father’s kingdom. If you have ears, pay attention!

OBSERVATION: The Holy Spirit impacted me when I read through these verses, but as I went back and meditated on these verses, something really popped out off the pages of my Bible. Jesus said in verse 41 that His angels will gather from HIS kingdom – meaning HIS children, in other words – those who claimed to belong to the Master, and they would be taken out and thrown into the flaming furnace. We need to really meditate on, and understand, this today.

APPLICATION: To read that there are thorns among the wheat, and how these thorns will stunt the growth of the wheat if left there during the growing period, yet we are told that the thorns should remain there. What do we make of this? I believe we would understand it very clearly if the Scripture said that those thorn bushes must be removed and burned, so that the wheat would mature without hindrance from the weeds. But that’s not exactly what Jesus said, is it? In my studies, I found out that back in verse 24 and following, Jesus told His audience that these weeds were planted to look just like the wheat, among which the weeds were planted. Now, to consider this idea in its proper context, let us consider our beautiful, plush and proper churches today. Wouldn’t it be extremely challenging to look out over our congregation, or even rub shoulders with them, and try to imagine who might be the ‘wheat’ among us, and who are the ‘weeds’. But I believe that Jesus is reminding us that because everyone walking through our doors are dressed just like us, look just like us, sing just like us, and may even give to the ministry just like us, we must not conclude that they are children of the kingdom. In Psalm 1:5, we are told that “sinners will have no place among the saved” on Judgment Day. So let’s try and conclude what Jesus is teaching here. Friends, I believe that way too often we look at what our coworker is succeeding at, or how happy that new Sunday School member seems to be in their life, and we start emulating their lifestyle, or we join them in the things that seem to successfully bring joy in their life. But Jesus is teaching us today that we have only one role model, one Savior and one Lord. He tells us throughout His Word how we are to seek His righteousness, and the things of this world will grow strangely dim. I believe that when we start desiring what another person has – whether it’s happiness, a great spouse, wonderful children, a healthy lifestyle, an expensive car, etc., then we are permitting ourselves to seek our happiness and pleasure in another person (wheat or thorns), rather than in the joy, peace and wisdom of our almighty God, who proved His love for us on Calvary. Our times of meeting at church, or any gathering, with fellow believers, or those we assume are fellow believers, we tend to lift up and encourage each other. We are supposedly there for one purpose – to corporately lift up the name of Jesus and worship Him from the very depths of our heart. It’s a given fact that some of these folk may have more knowledge than us about the teachings of God, and some may even have experienced miracles from God, but if you miss your one-on-one encounter with your maker, and if you confuse His direction that He has planned for your life, by following the lead of your fellow worshipper, then you are missing out on the importance of growing closer to the Master. Remember, He has laid out a plan for you, and that plan will involve experiences that you may totally miss, if you receive your guidance and leadership from a friend. We all must accept Jesus individually, and we all must seek His perfect will for our individual lives, if we are to live the perfect life He has in store for us. How are you doing with that my friend? Do you have a really intimate relationship with Jesus, and listening to His every command for your life? If not, let me encourage you to seek Him while He may be found. Draw close to Him, my friend, and He will draw near to you. You are the apple of His eye. He loves You and would like nothing better than to welcome you through the gates of Heaven when He calls you out of this world. Sure things up today, won’t you?

PRAYER: A challenging parable, but a much needed message for each of your children, dear God. Thank You for speaking to us in such unexpected, but important ways throughout Your Word, O Lord. Thank You for drawing our attention to the real source of revival in our land. It’s not my brother, or my sister, but it’s me oh Lord, standing in the need of prayer and needing to draw even closer to You. Please speak to the hearts and souls or Your people today, draw them to yourself, so that all doubt will be removed whether they are Yours – redeemed by the blood of the Lamb. Lord, may Your children be reassured of their stance with You today, so they may proceed with Your work, designated for them individually. People need the Lord – yes especially those who feel comfortable in church, even without ever having experienced You in their lives. May today be the day that they are introduced to the Master, and may they surrender their whole being to You and Your will for their life. AMEN!

To Know Our Shield, Our Protector and Our Guard

On By Ed AlgreenIn Faith, Rewards, TrustLeave a comment

Friday, 2019-02-08

Bible Reference: Proverbs 2:6-10
Translation: Living Bible (TLB)

Bible Text:  6 For the Lord grants wisdom! His every word is a treasure of knowledge and understanding. 7-8 He grants good sense to the godly—his saints. He is their shield, protecting them and guarding their pathway. 9 He shows how to distinguish right from wrong, how to find the right decision every time. 10 For wisdom and truth will enter the very center of your being, filling your life with joy.

OBSERVATION: Imagine with me today, and believe that we serve a God who shows us how to distinguish right from wrong, and how to find the right decision every time! But this is not something I made up, it’s not my imagination – read verse 9 above, again! Don’t you feel sometimes that you wish you could have this kind of wisdom every day, with every decision you make? Let’s be reminded of who God blesses in these ways!

APPLICATION: At the end of a day, sometime ago, when I had been bombarded with many questions – from personal issues to business challenges my staff were having, I reflected on the fact that it was impossible for little old me to have enough smarts about myself to answer so many varied questions. I knew that there was nothing I could have studied for, or done, to prepare myself, as I would never have known what questions would come my way that day. Then it clicked! The Holy Spirit opened my eyes to the fact that my prayer to Him each day in seeking His wisdom, and in pleading for opportunities to represent Him well, were not going unnoticed! He heard my prayers, and He provided the wisdom as, and when necessary! It opened my eyes to my selfishness in not returning to thank God at the end of each day for every prayer that He answered for me that day. I believe that way too often we get a little cocky and tend to think that we were just that good today. Oh my, what a lie and confusion of Satan himself. Think of the scenarios where you might come up on an accident moments after it occurred. Did you ever stop to reflect on the aggravation you had at the last traffic light which detained you three whole minutes at that one light? That 3 minutes allowed you to arrive at the scene of an accident, instead of being involved in it! In verse 8 God is telling us through His servant Solomon, that He shields us; He protects us; and He guards our path. That means that He intercedes in the very things of earth that’s needed to build a shield around us! Are you opening up yet to the fact that we serve an awesome God, who loves, cares and protects His children? Friends, ‘Our God is an Awesome God’! Do you know Him and have an intimate, daily relationship with Him? Salvation is not just a ticket to heaven for those who sincerely accept Jesus as Lord and Savior, it opens the door to a relationship with the Savior who said that He sits on the right hand of the Father interceding on our behalf! Do you understand why it is so awesome to have a personal, intimate relationship with Jesus, our Lord? Would you like to know the roadmap to having that relationship? Please read my Footnote, and take time to visit the link ‘To Know Jesus’ so that you may understand from God’s Word the ‘Who’; ‘Why’; and ‘How’. This will be the best, and most important decision of your life, my friend!

PRAYER: Thank You Heavenly Father for loving me so much that Your sent Your one and only Son as a sacrifice on a cruel cross, just so that I may have a relationship with Him; forgiveness of my sin, and assurance of my salvation – the open door to Glory where I will spend eternity in adoration, worship and praise of God the Father and Jesus the Son. Thank You for assuring me that although this was something You did for me personally, the same invitation went out to ALL who would humble themselves and accept Jesus as Lord. Lord, we are all struggling here on this earth, and we all need You in our lives today. Please soften the hearts of my readers who may be in agreement with me, but have not sought You out personally. Oh that this may be the day, precious Lord. AMEN!

The Intolerance of A Righteous God with The Unrighteous

On By Ed AlgreenIn Faith, Rewards, Trust2 Comments

Thursday, 2019-02-07

Bible Reference: Psalm 11:4-7
Translation: Good News Translation (GNT)

Bible Text: 4 The Lord is in his holy temple;
    he has his throne in heaven.
He watches people everywhere
    and knows what they are doing.
5 He examines the good and the wicked alike;
    the lawless he hates with all his heart.
6 He sends down flaming coals[c and burning sulfur on the wicked;
    he punishes them with scorching winds.
7 The Lord is righteous and loves good deeds;
    those who do them will live in his presence.

OBSERVATION: It seems like David saw in his day, like we might be seeing today, that some of the folk that God sent His Son to die for, have accepted that gift of love and forgiveness, and they are striving to live a life of holiness that emulates the life Jesus lived while here on earth. However there are others who have no regard for God and therefore live in total opposition to His laws. Praise God, He allowed David to share His warnings with those that may disregard and disobedience. Let us meditate on this today.

APPLICATION: Many of us will remember the warnings given to us
by parents when we were growing up. We will also remember that some parents were quick to whip us into obedience, while some were weaker – and somehow we figured out what we could get away with, when they discovered our misgivings! David is reminding us in our Scripture today that God is still on His throne, and that He still watches us and cares enough about us, to create in those who are committed to obeying Him, a mind of obedience. Friends, I believe that it is easy to see that there are times that people become so filled with the ways of the world, that Satan is free to roam in and out of their lives, and to work in them, his plan for their total destruction and downfall. Fortunately, we are reminded in verse 6 that God, like any loving Father, has some pretty serious discipline in store for the disobedient and unconcerned. I am reminded that this is one of the reasons why the unsaved have such a deep concern in the hearts of God’s children, for no loving child of God would want to see their friends punished, or destroyed by the command of our Holy and Righteous God, who receives anything but holiness and righteousness from them. However, while we have every good reason to continue loving, caring and praying for our unsaved loved ones and friends, we also have every good reason to thank our merciful Father for His goodness to us, and His wonderful promises that we are reminded of in verse 7. For we are a holy people, loved by a holy God, who has prepared a home for us in glory where we will spend eternity with our Father and His precious Son. Oh that today may be another day of praise, adoration and worship to our God! For He is awesome in all of His ways, and He will do all that He has promised for those who have accepted His Son as Savior and Lord. We are a blessed people friends!

PRAYER: Lord, please help us not to get caught up in the ways of this world, where it would be easy to question Your Word and question why You are so hard on our fellow human beings – the unsaved. Help us Lord to always remember that You are true to Your Word in every way, so if we obediently follow You, there are great rewards, and if we don’t, there is awful condemnation. Right up front You told us how life will work, so there is no need to now plead with You to change Your mind. Help us Lord to share Your warnings with those who refuse to follow Your plan, so that they will have a clear picture of what to expect in their final judgment. There is a plan for eternal salvation, filled with the love and peace of the Creator of every human, and of this whole universe. Individually we make the decision of whether we want that, or not. Oh that today will be a turning point for many in our circle of influence. AMEN!

Exercise Daily – In God

On By Ed AlgreenIn Consistent, Spiritual FitnessLeave a comment

Wednesday, 2019-02-06

Bible Reference: 1 Timothy 4:6-10
Translation: The Message (MSG)

Bible Text:  You’ve been raised on the Message of the faith and have followed sound teaching. Now pass on this counsel to the followers of Jesus there, and you’ll be a good servant of Jesus. Stay clear of silly stories that get dressed up as religion. Exercise daily in God—no spiritual flabbiness, please! Workouts in the gymnasium are useful, but a disciplined life in God is far more so, making you fit both today and forever. You can count on this. Take it to heart. This is why we’ve thrown ourselves into this venture so totally. We’re banking on the living God, Savior of all men and women, especially believers.

OBSERVATION: Any doctor, or good friend, will encourage you to exercise daily at the gym or anywhere that you could get yourself moving. However, of even more importance is the need to regularly exercise and enrich our souls in the Lord Jesus, so that our relationship with Him might always be fresh, finely tuned and growing daily. Because this comes directly from the Word of God, let us meditate on this today.

APPLICATION:  I believe that a lot of money is spent on gym memberships, and a lot of time is well spent on physical fitness in order to keep our heart and muscles in great physical shape, due to the stationary, inactive lifestyles we have in our desk jobs or just the bad priorities we choose in watching TV or playing on computer devices. So what if we did to our physical bodies what we do in our spiritual lives? You know, we may open our Bibles once a week when we attend church, or in some cases two or three times per year for special occasions. Do you suppose that we might see more physical deaths if we only exercised that infrequent? Do you suppose that this might be the reason we see so many spiritual ‘deaths’ in the church? If we only connect with the Master of this world on a very occasional basis, will that develop ‘relationship’ with Him? Physical exercise requires commitment to a designated time of fitness each day. It means sacrificing a warm bed for working out at the gym or jogging down a long, dark path, often until we feel like we are about to drop! It means ‘beating’ ourselves into submission, so that we can do it even when we don’t feel like it. Now, think about Spiritual fitness. Should it be any different? The results, or the outcome, is way more important, for it leads to an active, participating relationship with the King of this universe, One who sent His Son to die for us so that we might accept His sacrifice and the forgiveness of our sin, and therefore ultimately be with Him in glory one day. Physical fitness helps you condition your bodies to fight off diseases, have less pain and recover much faster from illnesses, and it may extend your life here on earth by a few years. Spiritual fitness opens the doors of heaven for you while here on earth, and to life ever after with the Creator. It gives you hope, peace and love here on earth and rewards for eternity that are out of this world! Spiritual fitness is suitable for all walks of life, for those fit enough to do physical fitness or not. Please don’t make excuses Brothers and Sisters. Seek to strengthen your spiritual lives so that you may be usable by God here on earth, until He is ready for you in Heaven. Each of us will face Him at Judgment Day, will you be prepared to smile and thank Him for allowing You to stay Spiritually Fit while here on earth? Make it a priority each and every day! I hope there will be no regrets.

PRAYER: Lord Jesus, we are such a blessed people, because of Your persistent love for us, and the way that You show that in so many ways to us daily. Please touch the lives of each one reading this devotional today with a desire to enhance our Spiritual fitness so that we might be drawn closer to You in every aspect of our lives. Others are watching to validate that we are who we say we are. May we be so engrossed in Your Word, and have such a determination to follow Your teachings, that the evidence might be obvious in all that we say or do while here on earth. We want them to see Jesus. May we be fit vessels that You can work through to reach those in our realm of influence dear Lord, AMEN!

2019

For, or Against?

On By Ed AlgreenIn Dedication, Determination, Faith, Rewards, TrustLeave a comment

Tuesday, 2019-02-05

Bible Reference: Matthew 12:30
Translation: The Voice (VOICE)

Bible Text: 30 ……he who is not with Me is against Me, and he who is not doing the Father’s work of gathering up the flock may as well be scattering the flock.

OBSERVATION: This verse is taken from a section of the New Testament where Jesus was clarifying for the Pharisees that His miracles were not of the devil. However, Jesus challenged them to consider their actions and attitudes as something that is tearing down the Kingdom, not building up. That same challenge is something we should review today, in the event we might be guilty of the same thing.

APPLICATION: A piece of advice given by my wife and I several times over the years is ‘be careful, blood is thicker than water’. This applied to situations where the individual was talking to a family member about one of their relatives. That family member might be upset with their relative, but they refuse to hear an outsider say something derogatory about them. However, they would gladly accept positive reinforcement, or help that will mend the fences between them. Jesus witnessed the spiritual leaders of the day looking for every opportunity to entrap Him and/or imprison Him. He heard them speak evil about the good that He was doing in their community, yet they walked around pretending to be more holy than anyone else. Aren’t you glad that with our advanced education system, and our many computers and smart people, that we have learned to overcome this weakness in the church today? Hopefully I received no ‘Amen’ responses after that last statement, because it was really meant to highlight that even after all these years; after having the Word of God to show us the errors of our past generations, yet churches today are torn apart by the same wickedness. In fact, I believe that we would all be very surprised to see what would happen if Jesus walked down the isles of our churches next weekend and pointed out the folk who should leave, because they have a godly spirit about them, and they are 100% honest in their words and in their actions. Of course the folk remaining would be the ones in much need of ministry as the Word of God is yet again explained to them in meticulous form. Friends, please allow me to remind each one reading this blog, that when God is working inside of us and using us for His purpose and the good of His kingdom, then no matter what position we hold in church, or in our community, we would promote the awesome love, power, wisdom and saving grace of the one true God – our Lord, and our Savior. When you are for Him, you will pray for those who open their mouths to speak for Him; you will lift up and encourage those who sing His praises; you will renounce evil and promote the goodness of God. There will be no need to look around to see who’s nearby when you speak to your neighbor, because your words will be intended to lift up, and not tear down. Friends, there are many in my community who need the Lord, and I bet your community is very similar. They may be looking at the proof of God’s work in our midst, before they make a decision to join a movement that claims they know Jesus, but show no living proof of His power or teaching. I believe that our takeaway today is that if we are for God, then let’s be extremely dedicated to living like He taught us, and like He exampled for us while here on earth. Jesus made it clear that we live out our beliefs, because when we don’t, it becomes clear that we are against Him. Talk with God today and allow Him to open your spiritual eyes to discern whose side you’re really on, both in words and in your actions.

PRAYER: Lord, may others see so much of Jesus in my speech and in my actions, that there will be no reason to question who guides me, who teaches me, who directs my path, and the direct in which I am headed for eternity! May all those meditating on this blog today be of the same mind and spirit, and may our dedication and commitment to you be contagious for all to see and subsequently follow. May we say like Paul did, if you want to see Jesus, follow me! AMEN!

For The Mighty Works You Have Done Oh God

On By Ed AlgreenIn Obedience, Prayer, Seek God's FaceLeave a comment

Monday, 2019-02-04

Bible Reference: Psalm 77:11-12
Translation: New Living Translation (NLT)

Bible Text: But then I recall all you have done, O Lord; I remember your wonderful deeds of long ago.  They are constantly in my thoughts. I cannot stop thinking about your mighty works.

OBSERVATION: In recognizing the many works of our awesome God, we become more apt to trust in Him for the many needs that we have daily. As David shares with us about His intimate relationship with His loving Father, may we also learn to give thanks in all things before asking for more. What a mighty God we serve!

APPLICATION:  In the verses leading up to verse 11, we read about all the questions David had for God. You know, much like the questions we have when we think that God has a much different agenda, or interest, in doing something totally different to what we are telling Him to do?  Oh you say that you would never do that? Friends I want to challenge you to think about how often we unconsciously do this every day. We ask God to ratify a decision we have already made for ourselves, and when God responds differently to what we expect, or demand, we immediately think that God’s not there, nor does He care about us. Let’s not forget that for every time that we ask a question of God, He has the power to respond with the right yes or no answer! Let me explain, way too often we go before God with a question, and because we have our minds made up with the response we want, we tend to think that God didn’t hear us; or He did not to respond to our demands; or He’s not there. Over time, I believe that we will realize that the greatest love that can be shown to us is for God to say ‘no’ when He knows full well that it is in our best decision to respond accordingly. I believe there are also times that we just can’t muster up the faith to ask God for help with our situations. David showed us that these are the times that we should stop and reflect on the mercies of God and the proven power of God in our lives, so that we might gain strength in our weakness, and faith in our time of doubt and unbelief. Friends, we serve a GREAT BIG God, and until we stop to reflect on His awesomeness and our ‘littleness’ then we might be missing a lot of blessings. Please take time to reflect and praise God for His awesome power, then proceed in the confidence that wells up in you to place your needs (small and great) before the God of this universe! We always need direction from God, for our wishes are often tainted by the things of this world, and only God truly knows what’s truly best for us. Friends, He’s my God, and I know that I can trust Him! I would challenge you to draw close to God so that He can show His power, grace and mercy as you draw close to Him and allow Him to be God in your life!

PRAYER: Thank You Father for being my Creator, my Redeemer, my Savior and my King! I know that there is nothing unreasonable or impossible for You. Thank You for hearing my heart’s cry when I call out to You. Please touch the heart of each person reading this devotional and cause each of us to draw closer to You in every aspect of our lives, so that our faith may increase. May our relationship with You become strong enough that we will trust You with every aspect of our lives, and not just the portion that we feel inadequate in handling.  Thank You Father for handling life today – our lives with all of the complexities that we have added to them. In the name of Jesus, I ask these things oh Lord, AMEN!

The Source

On By Ed AlgreenIn Faith, Obedience, Rewards, TrustLeave a comment

Saturday, 2019-02-02

Bible Reference: Genesis 22:13-14
Translation: Good News Translation (GNT)

Bible Text:  13 Abraham looked around and saw a ram caught in a bush by its horns. He went and got it and offered it as a burnt offering instead of his son. 14 Abraham named that place “The Lord Provides.” And even today people say, “On the Lord’s mountain he provides.”

OBSERVATION: In obedience to God, Abraham followed though in going up the mountain to sacrifice his very own son, even though it may have sounded like the most horrible command ever given to man. However, Abraham demonstrated to the rest of mankind that in our obedience and total surrender to the commands of God, He will provide, for He alone is at the root of (or source of) all things created.

APPLICATION: Some phrases we hear all the time are things like: If I had more money, then I could….; If I had a wife, then I could….; If I had a good job, then I could….; If I had a good church, then I would…. Isn’t it interesting that in our minds we believe that if we had one more thing, then we could be a more successful person? What about: If I had a personal relationship with God, and faith enough to trust in Him fully, then there is nothing too big for me? Did you realize that Christians and non-christians alike know that all power rests in God Almighty? Think about it. What is the first thing to pop out of a person’s mouth, regardless of their religious persuasion? “Oh Lord help me!” For you see, they are fully aware of the source of all life; the source of all power; the source of miracles; the means to life (eternity), after death here on this earth. And they will therefore call on God when facing a need in any of these areas. Friends, as we reflect on the reaction by Abraham in our focal verses today, where God tested his obedience even to the extent of sacrificing his precious son, we could see where Abraham knew full well the source of his power, his direction, his strength and his understanding. Therefore, when Abraham saw God intervene and extend his hand of mercy on his situation, he quickly rose up and turned to an immediate attitude of prayer and praise. There are numerous other ways that God provides for us each and every day, for He is the Source of all good things from above! Do you recognize those gifts and are obedient to His commands? Is your heart filled with praise when you stop to worship and adore Him? Do others tire of hearing you brag on the mercies of your loving Savior? Do you have a place marked, where you return to in thanksgiving, because you remember what God did for you in, or near that place? Are your corporate worship services filled with sincere praise and thanksgiving because of all that God has done in the lives of His people?

PRAYER: Oh Lord my God, when I in awesome wonder, consider all…. All that You have blessed me with, all that You have showered upon me, and protected me from, each and every day. Who am I that a King should live and die for? Lord, You created mankind, yet my readers and I kneel before You in great humility, acknowledging that You are the Source of all life and everything that we need to survive each and every day. Please oh Lord, continue to bless, continue to heal, and continue to miraculously work out Your will in our lives, so that we may imitate Your holiness and character in every way. We need You oh Lord, and we fully depend on You every day, knowing that only You can provide in ways like you did for Abraham. Please help us to keep our eyes fixed on You and obey Your commands, knowing that You will make all things clear to us – in Your time. AMEN!

An Obedient Heart

On By Ed AlgreenIn Faithful, Humbleness, ObedienceLeave a comment

Friday, 2019-02-01

Bible Reference: Psalm 119:33-34
Translation: The Voice (Voice)

Bible Text:  33 Eternal One, show me how to live according to Your statutes, and I will keep them always. 34 Grant me understanding so that I can keep Your law and keep it wholeheartedly.

OBSERVATION: We know from the life of David that there were many ups and downs, or highs and lows in his life, and perhaps that’s why many of us can identify with David so much. However, David became pretty special to God though, and we can see from our verses today that David’s heart was one of humbleness before God. He had a desire to learn more of God Word, and His perfect will for his life, feeling like if he could only understand it, he would put his whole heart into being obedient to it. 

APPLICATION:  Ever had a time in your life where you were about to get upset with a child because they were about to do something that you had corrected them on many times before? Then you realized that they were doing their very best to do what they probably understood from you, but just not as perfectly as you were hoping for? Isn’t that the way it is with God’s Word sometimes? You want to do things according to your understanding of God’s teachings, yet you become confused by all that is being taught from various pulpits, classrooms or media platforms. Friends, I believe that we need to pay close attention to the method used by David. Notice how he went to the Source to ask for wisdom and understanding? Notice how he had determined in his own mind that with this understanding and additional wisdom, came a determined heart to be obedient to whatever God revealed to him? I believe that often we become so hung up on wanting to hear an explanation of the Bible that fits our own personal desires and wishes that we tune out, or skip over those things that God might truly be trying to teach us. I believe that when we seek God’s face, like David did, we could be led in opposite directions to what we had determined in our minds, because God’s ways are so different to our ways. The bottom line for us though, is that only what’s done for Jesus will last. Only when we do what’s pleasing to Him and in full obedience to Him, will we truly align our lives with His will for us. So shall we seek to follow David’s example and seek God’s face, asking for Him to clarify exactly what it is that we need to do, so that we may be a pleasing fragrance in His nostrils? It’s not about what self wants or desires. It’s all about pleasing God in all that we do, friends, so that His perfect will might be accomplished through even us – His humble servants.

PRAYER: Father in heaven, You have demonstrated Your love for us by sending Your only Son as a sacrifice for our sin. Yet we love grudgingly and with many strings attached. You gave us Your Word – Your book of instructions for life, so that we might know the way to eternal life, and that we might know what pleases the Father. Yet we often choose to do our own thing, in hopes of selfish returns and personal achievements. Your servant David demonstrated through this Psalm today, that it’s not until we stop and surrender wholeheartedly to You, and Your perfect will for our lives, that we truly become a pleasing aroma to You and usable instruments by You, to reach unsaved loved ones. Lord, may this be a day that You will be busy at work in our understanding of Your statutes and commands, whether we are sitting to ‘soak in’ the words from Your Holy Bible, or whether driving along being blessed by all that You have made, or whether through the spoken word of another believer. Lord, may Your will become perfectly clear to us today, is my honest plea and heart’s desire, with total thanksgiving for all that You will do today, AMEN!

Savor The Goodness of God

On By Ed AlgreenIn God's Goodness, ThankfulLeave a comment

Thursday, 2019-01-31

Bible Reference: Psalm 73:1-5
Translation: The Contemporary English Version (CEV)

Bible Text:  No doubt about it! God is good – good to good people, good to the good-hearted. But I nearly missed it, missed seeing his goodness. I was looking the other way, looking up to the people at the top, envying the wicked who have it made, Who have nothing to worry about, not a care in the whole wide world.

OBSERVATION: I’m sure it happens all too often, that we fall into the trap of David, where we are so caught up in coveting what the neighbor, or coworker, or friend, or employer has, that we totally miss the simple, but profound blessings that God showers on each of us every day. Shouldn’t God look at us with disappointment over the fact that we easily overlooked our customized blessings, that He specifically designed for, and deliberately delivered to us?

APPLICATION:  I find life so interesting sometimes, for those who have – wish they had more, and they may even say that THEN they would be happier. For those who don’t have, they may look at those who seem to have material things as ones who are ‘blessed of God’. We have to be careful that we don’t get hung up on this friends, because when we do, we may very easily overlook what God has truly blessed us with. The Psalmist was caught in this trap, for he was looking at the blessings of others and feeling sorry for himself, like he was not blessed at all, just because he didn’t have what they had. It is truly amazing how spoiled we have become! If it rains, we have fewer people in church. Can you think about how blessed we are to have an automobile that can take us to church – dry from the outdoor weather! Can you imagine what our ancestors did who either walked or rode a horse to church, if they were blessed enough to have a horse? Think about us cancelling a church service because the air-conditioning may not be working! Would anyone show up if we planned a tent meeting? Friends, we must never place ourselves in the shoes of another man or woman, for we are rich in God’s blessings just as we are. Unless we center our thoughts on God, and recognize Him as the author of all things around us, we could very easily walk around in this world feeling deprived of God’s goodness – His blessings. Consider the air that you breathed in this morning, the ability to stand up and walk, the ability to see what you are doing, the love of family and friends that surround you, the comfort of your home – even if it is not as palatial as the mansion bragged about by a friend at work. Friends, without any worldly belongings, still we are blessed of God. Can we learn to praise Him for His awesome goodness to us, no matter what state we may find ourselves in? Let’s not overlook the goodness of God to us individually – in spite of what we see going on around us. Let’s remember that God’s customized blessings for us, would not fit the neighbor, and vice versa. So let’s learn to praise God even in our challenging times, for He is preparing us for eternity with He and His Father! If you have accepted Jesus as Lord of your life, then because He is King of all kings and Lord of all lords, that makes you an heir to His throne – you are a prince or princess – royalty! It just don’t get any better than that, and it all happens without even qualifying for a bank account!! Trust in the Lord friend, with all your heart, soul and mind, and prepare yourselves for the royal treatment! Read my ‘Footnote’ below if you have yet to surrender your life to Jesus. He is waiting and longing to hear from you!

Prayer: Lord, You are good and Your mercy endureth forever! How can we say thanks in enough ways to show our appreciation and gratitude to You for all that You do everyday for us? Please forgive those that You have created, those that You have blessed, those that You watch over and provide for everyday, for the times that we whine and complain because it may appear to us that a Brother or a Sister may show evidence of being blessed more than us. Wow, what an ungrateful bunch we are oh God. Please be patient with us while we come to our senses and recognize all of Your goodness towards us. May we seek and find reasons to praise You everyday for Your goodness oh Lord. May we truly recognize the Potter and how good You are to those You have molded in Your image. With a grateful heart, I give You thanks dear God. May You be praised today by a multitude of thankful people who recognize your goodness, AMEN!

Footnote: If you have been challenged to make a decision today after reading this devotional, please speak with a local Bible Teaching Pastor, or contact me at NuggetsFromGodsWord@outlook.com. Allow someone to pray with you and give you help and/or encouragement as you begin, or continue your walk with Jesus. Words underlined in my blog could indicate a link to a song that came to mind as I wrote the devotional. Feel free to click on the link and listen as you continue to read or pray. If this devotional was forwarded to you and you would like to see more, please go to www.nuggetsfromgodsword.org and read more, or you may freely to subscribe for a daily email conveniently containing each day’s devotional. If you are anywhere near the Highlands County, Florida area and do not have a church home, I would be thrilled to welcome you at Bible Fellowship Church, located at 3750 Hammock Rd, Sebring, FL 33872! Click the link to check out service times and/or other special activities. God is at work among us! Please consider coming to worship with us!

2016

Wisdom – A Gift From a Generous God

On By Ed AlgreenIn Faith, Knowledge, Rewards, Trust, WisdomLeave a comment

Wednesday, 2019-01-30

Bible Reference: Proverbs 2:6
Translation: The Passion Translation (TPT)

Bible Text:  Wisdom is a gift from a generous God, and every word he speaks is full of revelation and becomes a fountain of understanding within you.

OBSERVATION: While there are some who, at least think that they know everything, most of us wish that we were wise enough to understand what is going on now, and what impact it might have on tomorrow. However, Solomon shares with us how we might learn to fear the Lord and grow in our knowledge of Him.

APPLICATION: I believe that we hear these words frequently: “If only I knew as much as that individual”, or “I wish I knew why God chose not to tell us about …..”. In the first five verses of Proverbs 2 (click on our Scripture reference above to see the whole chapter) there are several things that we are told to concentrate on if we are to grow in the fear and understanding of our God. Let’s look at those:

  1. Accept, or treasure, the Word of God – Don’t just read the Word and apply it to everyone around you, but take the words to heart and bury them deep within. God brought them to your attention for a current, or possibly a future circumstance;
  2. Listen to what God is saying to you – Too often we are so busy conjuring up our response to a teaching, that we totally miss what is truly being taught. Listen like a child, absorb what is being said like a sponge. We become wiser by learning as much as we could about a person, or a situation. God wants us to know all we can about Himself and His ultimate wisdom about all things;
  3. Cry out and beg for understanding – Avoid the frustration of not knowing why or how. Plead with God to help you understand all that you need to know about His teachings;
  4. Seek and you will find – rumble through all resources and sources, like you would if you lost a $100 bill. Ask God to help you find the answers. He knows your heart, and why you find it so important to find answers and understanding of His directions;

Friends, we are told in verse 5 that when we do the above things, we will learn to fear our awesome and all-powerful God, and He will place a fountain of understanding within us! Wouldn’t it be totally satisfying if we felt this way at the end of each day? My wife and I met a young man at a local restaurant at a time that our daughter was looking for a job. We asked how did he get the job, to which he responded “Persistence”. I didn’t settle for just leaving an application, I returned frequently to ask about a response. They saw that I was serious about the job, and they gave it to me. In the above bullet points you will note that these are all things that will indicate to God that we are serious about growing in His wisdom, and daily walking in the fear of His almighty hand. Does this sound like your position with Christ today, my friend? If not, you can make this happen – only you can!

PRAYER: Lord Jesus, there are many things that I feel like I need to know more about – in Your Word, and in Your everyday plan for my life. Please tender my heart to diligently seek Your face, Your heart and Your will for all those things that You would have me gain more wisdom about. It is so easy to just read Your Word, try to take every word literally, and try to apply it to my life. However, in a relationship with my very best Friend, my Lord and Savior, I believe that You will be patient with me and help me to understand and fear Your decisions in all things. Please speak to my readers and I in very bold ways today, so that we may know and believe. We want to know You more. We want to understand Your ways and obey Your commands. Please draw us to Yourself and carefully work on our understanding, respect and obedience of the one true God, the God of all wisdom and power. AMEN!