Tag: Praise

An Imitation of the One You Adore

On By Ed AlgreenIn Answered Prayer, Appreciation, Glorify, Glory of God, Imitate Jesus, Imitating Christ, Imitator of Christ, Needs, Praise, Recognize God, WorshipLeave a comment

Tuesday, 2019-11-19

Bible Reference: John 13:34-35
Translation: The Passion Translation (TPT)

Bible Text: 34 “So I give you now a new commandment: Love each other just as much as I have loved you. 35 For when you demonstrate the same love I have for you by loving one another, everyone will know that you’re my true followers.”

OBSERVATION: Jesus was about to end His earthly ministry, and I believe He was admonishing His disciples to carry on by demonstrating all that they saw in Him while working together, ministering together, and seeking after the heart of loved ones who had gone astray. Because I believe that Jesus still desires for His children to be imitators of their Master, I want us to contemplate what that might look like today.

APPLICATION: Ever notice the difference between a military enlistee and a regular civilian? One is determined to follow the orders of their commanding officer and defend their country, in spite of all the evil going on inside their homeland, while the other tries to follow the general idea of the local laws, but will not think twice about questioning those laws and or commands of those in charge of their safety and welfare. Similarly, you will often identify God’s children by their demeanor, their lifestyle, their honesty, their commitment and their love for one another. I believe that Jesus is teaching us in the Scripture today, just as He taught the disciples: ‘Let the world see so much of Jesus in you, that they will be convinced that He exists, and that they could easily follow you, as you follow Christ. I believe that Jesus wants us to not only desire to know Him in order to have our ticket punched for heaven, but especially so that the non-believer would turn their heads to this cruel, heart-breaking, mean and treacherous world, and be encouraged to see the character of Jesus in every fiber of our being. And that it would be inviting enough to convince them that there is a better way! Friends, I believe that many of you may have traveled down some of the same roads that I have. For we have seen the impact of this world on folk at our job site, in our neighborhoods, in our government, and even in our churches. I am so encouraged, and touched by the living Word of God, for Jesus knew that we would face these challenges and discouragements and we may sometimes want to just throw our hands up in disappointment and wonderment of whether it is worth the effort to try and be kind and loving every day. Often, when we ‘try’ to be good, loving and kind, we are polluting ourselves with so much self-effort, and self-taught principles, and selfish desires, that we sometimes make things worse. I believe that Jesus is teaching us, as He did His disciples, to just apply all that we have learned from Him to our lives, and look to His Book of Instruction (the Bible) when searching for answers, instead of the TV Talk Shows, or the internet sites of Palm Readers, and the like. Jesus has placed the Holy Spirit inside of us, believers in Christ, so that we might be led in the right direction; understand His precious Word, and love like He first loved us. Let’s learn to love like Jesus did – for He gave up His own life for us, even while we were still sinners. He loved Lazarus and his sisters enough that He cried in empathy for Mary and Martha who thought they would never see Lazarus alive again. Let’s learn to care for others like He did – for He stopped a whole parade so that He could chat with, and seek the desire of two cripples who could not fend for themselves. Instead of racing the children away, like His disciples, He called them to Himself, taught them and loved on them as a father would. To all my readers, I would plead with you today to seek God, read His Word, pray to Him, and be bold enough to love, talk and act like Him, even in a world that tends to be in total opposition to that. Don’t force these things upon your neighbor, but allow God to embed them into your hearts and upon your life. He wants to shine brightly through you, so that your neighbor will be convinced about the One who loves him/her in spite of their circumstances and their rotten attitudes. Be willing to let go, and let God have His way in you, my friend!

PRAYER: Precious Lord, You are more wonderful than all of creation! You loved me when I was totally unlovable by anyone. Why you even stood still under the barrage of whips, and You endured the cross, so that the world might know that we are loved more than life itself. Father, it seems like we are facing a world that is so evil and filled with hatred. I’m sure that this is no worse than what You faced, but Lord we need You. Every hour of every day we need You. Please fill us with Your power, so that we may not only overcome the temptations and trials of this world, but that we might shine with the glory of the Son, so that our dark world might be illuminated and convinced of Your love. While deserving nothing in return from this world, I pray that You may be glorified through us today in many wonderful ways. AMEN!

Is It I? or Is It You?

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

Monday, 2019-11-18

Bible Reference: John 13:18-21
Translation: The Passion Translation (TPT)

Bible Text: 18 “I don’t refer to all of you when I tell you these things, for I know the ones I’ve chosen—to fulfill the Scripture that says, ‘The one who shared supper with me treacherously betrays me.’ 19 I am telling you this now, before it happens, so that when the prophecy comes to pass you will be convinced that I AM. 20 “Listen to this timeless truth: whoever receives the messenger I send receives me, and the one who receives me receives the Father who sent me.” 21 Then Jesus was moved deeply in his spirit. Looking at his disciples, he announced, “I tell you the truth—one of you is about to betray me.”

OBSERVATION: To consider this topic today, is like saying to a crowded room ‘Will the perfect one please stand up’! For who do you suppose has been ‘perfect’, or fully obedient in every way to the commands of Christ? Wouldn’t you be like the rest of the disciples should Jesus say to your group that one of you will betray Him. Let’s humble ourselves before God and consider this very challenge that the disciples faced. Is it I, Lord?

APPLICATION: We could very easily see a group of Christians get upset if someone walked into their meeting room and said that one of them will betray Jesus that day. In fact, they would probably shoo that critique out of their midst immediately, thinking that he meant to go next door where the non-Christians were hanging out. But how often do Christians take for granted the awesome love that Jesus extended to them?; how often do we think about the sacrifice Jesus made just for us at Calvary?; how often do we imitate Him in following His example to only say what the Master has ordered us to say?; and how often have we sold out to the world when it comes to representing Christ in action, deed or word? I know, the immediate response is often but. ‘we’re only human’. However, for what purpose have you given your heart to the Lord? Is it not to promise Jesus that you will leave these earthly desires and sin, so that you might live a holy, dedicated, life for Him? As you do this, are you not saying to the world, ‘follow me as I follow Christ’? So, when you choose to deliberately defy the commands of Christ, ignore the love of Christ, and totally destroy your witness to the unsaved, have you not betrayed the trust that Jesus placed in you when you promised Him that you would love and represent Him for as long as you live? Friends, I believe that if Jesus walked into a room filled with, who we might consider to be the most respected christian leaders, and He said that one of them would betray Him, I believe they all would stand in open guilt, knowing that it could be either one of them. Do we set out to be like that? No, I would never believe that. But let me remind us today that when we become unconcerned and uncommitted in our faith, we tend to start accepting more and more of the world back in. When that pollution reenters our lives, we are easily swayed into doing the former things of life. The hurtful thing about that, is that you are now subjecting the Holy Spirit to all of the filth, because you invited Him to come and live inside of you the day you gave your heart to the Lord. Do you suppose that the heart of Jesus was broken when He realized that one of His own disciples would betray Him? How do you suppose our risen Lord feels when He sees you and I betraying Him still today? Just living in this world, we will be tempted, but let me assure you today, based on the very Word of God, that greater is He that lives in you, greater is He that is available to you when you cry out to Him for help and guidance, than he that is in the world! For those who know Jesus personally, know that we serve an awesome God – one who is greater, stronger and always willing to empower us to overcome the struggles of this world! Know Him today my friend, and know peace everlasting!

PRAYER: Precious Lord, Your weak and sinful children need You each and every day. The temptations of this world are real, and they are often stronger than we can personally overcome. Please teach us to always lean on You for the strength to face the challenges of this world, and to live noble lives ordained by our perfect Savior. For those that may find this whole devotional unreal, I pray that You would please speak gently to them and melt their heart of stone so that they may see Jesus in all His glory. Lord, I know that Jesus is the answer to all of man’s challenges today. Oh that sinful man might see Him and accept Him as Lord and personal Savior, and may we commit ourselves fully to Your care, Your power and Your direction. We need You precious Lord, every hour of every day. AMEN!

Washing Ourselves Daily of The Effects of This World

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

Saturday, 2019-11-16

Bible Reference: John 13:6-8
Translation: The Voice (VOICE)

Bible Text:
Simon Peter (as Jesus approaches): 6 Lord, are You going to wash my feet?
Jesus: 7 Peter, you don’t realize what I am doing, but you will understand later.
Peter: 8 You will not wash my feet, now or ever!
Jesus: If I don’t wash you, you will have nothing to do with Me.

OBSERVATION: Although foot washing is not widely practiced in today’s churches, every time I read this story I see humility symbolized in a very real way. However, Jesus not only teaches humility, but also the need for cleansing, especially as we are impacted daily by the filthy effects of Satan on his followers. Because we rub shoulders with these folk on a regular basis, we should consider how critical it is to plead with the Master daily for cleansing.

APPLICATION: My spiritual curiosity was peaked when I read verse 8, so I studied the meaning of these words deeper. I loved the way this is explained in the Matthew Henry Commentary and wanted to share it: All those, and those only who are spiritually washed by Christ, have a part in Christ. All whom Christ owns and saves, he justifies and sanctifies. Peter more than submits; he begs to be washed by Christ. Those who truly desire to be sanctified, desire to be sanctified throughout, to have the whole man, with all its parts and powers, made pure. The true believer is thoroughly washed when he receives Christ for his salvation. See then what ought to be the daily care of those who, through grace, are in a justified state, and that is, to wash their feet; to cleanse themselves from daily guilt; and to watch against everything defiling. This should make us the more cautious. From yesterday’s pardon, we should be strengthened against this day’s temptation. Within pain and filth, there is an opportunity to extend God’s kingdom through an expression of love, humility, and service. This simple act of washing feet is a metaphor for how the world looks through the lens of Jesus’ grace. He sees the people—the world He created—which He loves. He also sees the filthy corruption in the world that torments everyone. His mission is to cleanse those whom He loves from those horrors. This is His redemptive work with feet, families, disease, famine, and hearts. When Jesus sees disease, He sees the opportunity to heal. When He sees sin, He sees a chance to forgive and redeem. When He sees dirty feet, He sees a chance to wash them. Oh for wonderful grace of our Savior to cleanse ourselves daily. With sin in our lives, we are like Peter, guilty and embarrassed for Jesus to look inside and see our filth. With a regular cleansing from Jesus, we would feel honored and proud to be in the presence of our holy God, because we are happy to be living a holy life before Him. Christianity is not like some men say about their marriage – I told her at the altar that I loved her, and unless something changes, that word remains true without the need to repeat myself daily!! That is not true love, and it definitely does not define a true relationship with Jesus. He deserves our commitment to honor Him every day and to commune with Him daily to keep our relationship in good, fresh order. Dear friend, if you have not been to Jesus for cleansing yet today, may I encourage to keep your priority items first on your to-do list? He deserves our first, and our best!

PRAYER: Dear Lord, living in a world filled with the filth of Satan and his demons, it becomes increasingly challenging to allow my light to shine as a beacon for all that represents my loving Savior. Like Peter, I acknowledge that there is a strong need for me to be washed by You on a regular basis. You washed my sin away, when I asked you to, back on 1976. But Lord there is a daily influx of evil that fills my eyes, my mind and tempts me with evil thoughts. Please wash me Lord, so that my mind will remain fixed on You and that I may remain immersed in Your precious love, forgiveness and mercy. Lord, I plead also for my readers that they too may receive a word from You today, and that they may be drawn to You more closely than yesterday. Our wicked world needs You, dear Lord, and I believe it would really help if they could see You in every action by Your representatives her on earth. Use us Lord as Your loyal, honest and dedicated representatives before our family and friends who desperately need You. AMEN!

Jesus is the Answer!

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

Thursday, 2019-11-14

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

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

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

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

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

The Response of People Who Hear Good News

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

Wednesday, 2019-11-13

Bible Reference: John 12-9-11
Translation: Living Bible (TLB)

Bible Text: 9 When the ordinary people of Jerusalem heard of his arrival, they flocked to see him and also to see Lazarus—the man who had come back to life again. 10 Then the chief priests decided to kill Lazarus too, 11 for it was because of him that many of the Jewish leaders had deserted and believed in Jesus as their Messiah.

OBSERVATION: It is often said that gossip travels like wild fire, but in our Scripture today we are told about how people reacted to hearing about Jesus coming to their town. As we meditate today, let us ponder why many in our town are not coming to see Jesus. Enter into the heart of the Scriptures with me today!

APPLICATION: I believe that if a church elder stood before a church congregation and told them about misappropriation of funds by church leaders, or an extramarital affair by the pastor, that news will spread over all the town before the end of that service. But isn’t it interesting how our pastor stands in that same pulpit each Sunday and declares the saving grace of Jesus Christ, and the simple steps necessary for the sinner who is headed to the pits of Hell, to otherwise be totally converted from a life of sin and be redirected instead to the Kingdom of God, where they will spend eternity with Jesus and His Father? Nothing about that is texted out to a friend about to enter eternity without Christ. Nothing about that is shared around the dinner table with unsaved family members. Our lips are sealed at work because we don’t want our coworkers to think that we’ve become a religious fanatic. And yet, we are OK entering Heaven’s gates and responding to God about why our family and friends are not with us? I wonder, what words we might have for those lost friends who may look up from the torment of Hell and question us about our silence? When a hurricane, or deathly storm, approaches, some of our friends decide not to evacuate, as ordered by the authorities. But what a sad affair when we choose not to tell our neighbor about an approaching deadly storm. Can’t you see that it’s the same plight for those of us that can’t be bothered to share the good news of Jesus Christ with our neighbors, our family, or with those in our towns and with those in authority? But unless I remain negative about this Scripture today, please refresh yourself on what the towns people and community leaders did in response to hearing about the visit of Jesus! They flocked to see Him! I remember at one time joining others in cottage prayer meetings to pray for our Christian friends to attend a series of revival services. What a joy it was to attend those services and watch the Lord deal in the hearts of those precious friends who showed up! Perhaps if we share the good news of Jesus with those we care about, they too will gladly come to church to hear more, and to rejoice with us in worship to our King! What are we waiting for? A serious, deadly storm is coming dear friends, it’s called Judgment Day. Are we content to seek shelter just for ourselves and not worry about those we love and care for? No matter how little we know the Bible, or how educated we are, simply share what Jesus has done for you and assure your friends that He will gladly do the same for them. They need to know your Savior, not necessarily what He did for Moses, or David or Paul, etc. As they know the God of the Bible, they will desire to know more about the God talked about in the Bible!

PRAYER: Oh dear God, please speak to the hearts of Your children today, and start with me. Make us keenly aware of all that You did for us, and all that You would gladly do for those who seek Your face. Please remind us of the love You have for us, and the love and response that would normally pour out of those filled with Your love. Embolden us to act upon Your Word and to share the love of Christ that is blessing us beyond anything we deserve. Oh that none will be left behind, as we share Your love and saving grace with all that we know and associate with. AMEN!

A Father’s Love

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

Tuesday, 2019-11-12

Bible Reference: 2 Samuel 18:5
Translation: Living Bible (TLB)

Bible Text: 5 And the king commanded Joab, Abishai, and Ittai, “For my sake, deal gently with young Absalom.” And all the troops heard the king give them this charge.

OBSERVATION: A son – adored at birth, loved and trained through adulthood – yet a father is not assured of the son’s love in return, nor is that dependent on the amount of love a father has for his son. That’s the situation that David found himself in with regards to his son Absalom. Are you faced with similar challenges with your child? Meditate with me as we learn from David in our Scripture today.

APPLICATION: It is often said that we could love, teach and advise our children while they are in our home, but, especially in their independence, they take on their own character. I believe that any parent will agree with me that our kids sometimes do things differently than we would wish for them, but often they are very successful in life, in spite of our differences. I believe that David recognized that his son, Absalom, had become a good king. However, it was extremely challenging for David to understand why Absalom was so determined to kill him. So to protect his own citizens, David found himself in a position where he had to defend against the angry king Absalom. But notice how the heart of David comes through. He sent his army out to fight Absalom, but with caution to his generals to be ever so cautious. Now remember, Absalom tried to kill David, his father, and of course, he was willing to kill any military personnel that tried to interfere with his plot. So this army was asked to go out and fight Absalom and his army, so that the Israelites might be protected, but they were being cautioned to go easy on their leader. Those two things are in total opposition, aren’t they? But friends, I believe there are two messages in this Scripture for us: 1). For all the families who are out there fighting within, please notice that God has built into us a very strong and intimate knit to our family members. David, a man after God’s own heart, never lost sight of the love for his son, no matter what actions he undertook – even to the point of trying to kill him (David). I believe that God wants us to note that the world will make every effort to destroy that which He has erected as evidence of His kinship with us. There is nothing Satan likes better, than to see family members tear each other apart – for it helps Satan feel a sense of accomplishment. For family members who do this and claim Jesus as their Savior, I believe that family division and infighting, not only tears apart the family structure God designed, but when Christianity is brought into the picture and infighting continues, it also affects the church. As members of His bride (the Church), we are His representatives to a lost and dying world. Will others truly see Jesus when they see Satan working so wickedly in our holy lives? Also, 2) The persona of Jesus Christ is seen in David. For Jesus willingly went to the cross for the sake of all who would, at some point in their lives, accept Him as Lord. This means that at the time of His crucifixion, there were many who hated Him, many who disregarded Him as their King, many who raised a hand to help in His crucifixion. Yet He went to the cross as sheep to the slaughter. My friend, David showed love that often we will only read about, for we could easily conclude that we could never love like that. But Jesus paid the ultimate sacrifice for us, even while we had no regard for Him. Please note that David showed from a human perspective that we can love, in spite of the objective of others to hurt us. Jesus showed love because He wanted us to have God’s perfect gift of love, so that we could see the likes of Heaven. Please look deep inside and, if you have never surrendered your heart to the love of the Lord Jesus, make time to do that today – please? I believe that it is with that perfect gift of love, that we will have the love necessary to love others – especially those that may tend to persecute us. I am convinced from the Word of God, that when we invite the perfect love of God into our hearts, His love overflows from us and impacts all those that we come into contact with. We may feel unequipped to love those who persecute and despise us, but God’s perfect love working through us will love the best Christian and the most hateful sinner.

PRAYER: Precious Lord, You are love and You proved it by loving even me. Thank You for the sacrifice You made at Calvary just for me. Please oh God, may Your love shine so brightly through me that others may feel a certain warmth in every encounter with me. Oh that they may see Jesus, is my humble plea today! Please speak to the hearts of those readers who are struggling to imitate David, and the ultimate love shown by You. May they seek to know You more, and to let go of self, so that You may assume full reign over their life today. AMEN!

To See The Glory Of God!

On By Ed AlgreenIn Answered Prayer, Appreciation, God's Not Dead, God-honoring, Needs, Praise, Recognize God, WorshipLeave a comment

Monday, 2019-11-11

Bible Reference: John 11:39-42
Translation: The Voice (VOICE)

Bible Text:
Martha: Lord, he has been dead four days; the stench will be unbearable.
Jesus: 40 Remember, I told you that if you believe, you will see the glory of God.
41 They removed the stone, and Jesus lifted His eyes toward heaven.
Jesus: Father, I am grateful that You have heard Me. 42 I know that You are always listening, but I proclaim it loudly so that everyone here will believe You have sent Me.

OBSERVATION: “If you believe, you will see the glory of God!” That’s a quote from what Jesus said to Martha as she tried to save Jesus from having the grave of her deceased brother opened. As we meditate on this Scripture today, I want us to think of our own life experiences where Jesus may have whispered this to us also. Just believe and watch for the glory of God to manifest itself.

APPLICATION: There are many circumstances in life where the end result is better than we expect, and there are some situations that end much worse than we desire. There was a situation just yesterday in my circle of friends, where a dad heard of an accident involving his young son. I’m sure that with every bit of faith he had, that Christian dad must have prayed that everything would turn out miraculously. In this case, it didn’t turn out quite like the story of Lazarus, but friend of God, we can only stand alongside this dad and comfort Him, for we know that all things accomplished by our God, is well done and for His ultimate glory. Now, placing ourselves in the boots of that dad, we may struggle with that. But often as we reflect back and see where God used this tragedy to witness to one or more of this young man’s friends about their relationship with their Master, we may see where God used this very unfortunate situation to win the hearts of many. In another example, through the tragic death of a nephew, my dad’s heart of sin was melted, and resulted in his full surrender to the King of all kings. I may never know the lives that were touch through the salvation of my dad, but I long to see them rejoice at the feet of Jesus as they offer praises to Him for a series of events that led to their salvation. Friends, I sincerely believe that God didn’t direct me to this Scripture to fill your day with morbid stories, but I hope that this might trigger a thought or two when you sit by the bedside of a loved one struggling in hospital, so that you might hear the echo of God’s Word as He says to you: Just believe, and you will witness my glory! Perhaps there will be other circumstances in life that seem helpless to you – listen to the words of Christ as He whispers ‘Be still my child and know that I am God. Just believe and watch for the glory of God to be revealed’! We serve such an awesome God, and we could have such awesome peace, if only we will place our hand in His, believe, and patiently watch for His glory in all that He does. Oh that God may grant us His patience to wait, and His peace as we wait today!

PRAYER: Lord, You warned us that Your ways are not our ways. So it becomes very challenging for us to know what glory You might receive from, what appears to be, our unfortunate circumstances. Please remind us daily that You’re in control of all of life’s circumstances, and not only do we not have the knowledge or power to do anything about so many of life’s challenges, but that we have access to the One who does. Lord, please teach us to wait. Please teach us to trust in You more and more every day, and please remind us frequently, that all things will work together for good, to those who love the Lord. Draw us close to Your side precious Lord. AMEN!

Another Opportunity To See Jesus!

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

Friday, 2019-11-08

Bible Reference: John 11:14-16
Translation: The Passion Translation (TPT)

Bible Text: 14 Then Jesus made it plain to them, “Lazarus is dead. 15 And for your sake, I’m glad I wasn’t there, because now you have another opportunity to see who I am so that you will learn to trust in me. Come, let’s go and see him.”
16 So Thomas, nicknamed the Twin, remarked to the other disciples, “Let’s go so that we can die with him.”

OBSERVATION: Although somewhat of an unusual account of Jesus and his disciples, yet it is filled with applications for our lives. Just as the disciples could not fathom what was going on, you may also struggle with the intent of Jesus and how this might apply today. Let’s ask Jesus to open our eyes of understanding so that we may clearly see Him, and His message for us today.

APPLICATION: No doubt, we all have a favorite miracle of Jesus, and perhaps each one speaks miraculously to us in their own way. For some, it may be the very first miracle recorded where Jesus turned the water into wine, but for others it may be when He walked on the Sea of Galilee towards the boat filled with His disciples, and with a very calm tone of voice, He calmed the rough waters. But in our Scripture today we see for the first time that Jesus ignored the request of His very good friends, Mary and Martha, in order to achieve an ultimate goal He had in store for His disciples. He wanted them to catch a fresh glimpse of the power and glory of their risen Savior! Adding to the mystery of Jesus’ actions in not responding immediately to the request of Mary and Martha, is the fact that Jesus told His disciples that He was glad that He was not there when Lazarus died. That really seems callous, doesn’t it? But ponder with me for a few minutes how many may have been saved, or in this case recognize the power of God, if Jesus would have instantly healed Lazarus when He got word 4 days earlier, that he was sick to the point of death? I have a situation in my family where it was the result of the death of a nephew, that my dad came to know Jesus as Lord. Was it a good thing that the nephew died? Absolutely not. But the Bible teaches us that the angels in heaven rejoice when they welcome one soul surrendered to the call of God on their lives. Furthermore, God had many years to work in and through my dad to touch other souls that rubbed up against. As mere earthly mortals, we are devastated when we lose a loved one, whether it’s due to old age, or what we often feel is prematurely. But would it make us feel any better if, when we get to heaven, Jesus reveals to us how many entered into a personal relationship with Jesus because of our unfortunate loss? Notice that Peter struggled with the whole scene, because He thought that following Jesus, into the city where He was so sought after, would lead to certain death for them. We have no record of Peter or his fellow disciples rejoicing over this move by Jesus to go and visit the grave of Lazarus. But, like the disciples, we must learn to trust and follow Jesus where He leads us. I believe that still today He is seeking after His children to trust Him more; worship Him more; have more faith in Him; know that He’s with us when we have a witnessing opportunity; know that His Word will not return void, especially when we stand in front of a class or on the podium of a sanctuary to share the plain Word of God with folk that came to learn more about Him. God never mentioned about us being capable, or any other attribute that folk tend to look for in a first-class preacher or teacher. I believe that if He was able to use uneducated fishermen, tax collectors, doctors and more, to start the whole Christian movement, then how much more can He use you and I who can often stand and talk on any subject that comes our way. Let’s learn to trust Him Brothers and Sisters. Perhaps if we empty ourselves of ‘self’ and ask God to fill us afresh with His love, His power and His boldness, then perhaps others will see Jesus instead of the wicked men and women that we are. Just like Peter and His companions, let us learn to trust God more – in every circumstance of life.

PRAYER: Dear God, as others look on us today may they see Jesus. Please help us to stop acting like spoiled children, for we are called to service, so may our lives be fully spent on Jesus. As Jesus went to see Lazarus, there was no doubt, and there was no hesitancy. Others saw the awesome works of the Almighty God. May that be the case with all those that we come into contact with today. There is probably nothing about ourselves individually for others to like, or care about. If there is, then perhaps they will see that thing, instead of the awesome God that we seek to serve, and be seen through us. Lord, may any personal, likable, thing become invisible to the eyes of the one that need to see You in us. Please have Your will and way in and through us today, for there may be one that we encounter who may need to be awaken from the death of sin and self destruction. They may see no true value in life. Oh may the joy of the Lord be evident in us, and through us today. This is my humble and desperate plea of my almighty King – Jesus my Lord! AMEN!

Sheep Who Listen and Follow Are Protected

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

Wednesday, 2019-11-06

Bible Reference: John 10:25-29
Translation: The Passion Translation (TPT)

Bible Text: 25 ……. “I have told you the truth already and you did not believe me. The proof of who I am is revealed by all the miracles that I do in the name of my Father. 26 Yet, you stubbornly refuse to follow me, because you are not my sheep. As I’ve told you before: 27 My own sheep will hear my voice and I know each one, and they will follow me. 28 I give to them the gift of eternal life and they will never be lost and no one has the power to snatch them out of my hands. 29 My Father, who has given them to me as his gift, is the mightiest of all, and no one has the power to snatch them from my Father’s care. 

OBSERVATION: The Jews looked for every possible way to discredit Jesus, because He was really sharing a simple truth that revealed the ugliness of all they were doing as the spiritual leaders of that day. But Jesus had one simple indicator for them to focus on – watch for His works. For through His awesome works, God will be revealed through the Son. Meditate with me today as we consider the lights, sights and sounds of each day that we are blessed to walk into. I believe these things might help us to draw one conclusion – Only God!

APPLICATION: As a worker of over 47 years, I am blessed to enjoy one last week of vacation before I retire at the end of the year. Standing at the door of my vacation unit, I could see the rising sun, and I believe that God got my attention to compare that to His Son, who was sent to show us the love of the Father, and to provide the means of our eternal salvation from this wicked world. As I peered into the bright sun, I was reminded that it outshines everything else in view. My Savior – the Son of God, said in these verses this morning that His works will outshine anything else the Jews could imagine, and that’s how the people would know that He is indeed the Son of God; The glory of God; The power of God; The very image of God. Jesus also said that His sheep will not only see His power and His glory, but that they will move into action by accepting the only One who provides salvation to mankind. Each day as we recognize the power and beauty of our awesome God, we have the choice of brushing these things off to good luck; happen-chance; a strange phenomenon; or to something powerful that is created by man. I believe that as we recognize them as coming from the hand of God alone, we will have an increased desire to know Him better and to follow Him more intimately. Whatever you do, please don’t overlook the words of Jesus in regards to this. He assured us that those who accept Him, and the wonderful gift of redemption that He offers, will be secure, for no one will snatch them from His all-powerful hand. Friends, in a world where everything is so unsure, and where the rules are changing all the time, is it not reassuring that our Father assures us of the security that we have in His care? God created us to be His worshipers and His faithful followers. In return, He has assured us that He cares for His sheep (children/followers) and that He will protect us until the day we are with He and His Father in heaven. Yes, for all eternity. So whether it’s the sun that rises in majesty each day, or whether its some other act of God that opens your eyes to the wonders of God, please recognize the works of God, and know that He is the One that awaits your response to His power so that He may also use you for His glory in helping others see Him. We protect our properties with physical security; our computers with data security; and our finances with insurance; I believe it is vitally important that we seek a relationship with the Almighty for peace of mind today and the security of our eternal destiny. Please be sure to read through my Footnote, and especially click on the hyperlink, ‘To Know Jesus’, so that you might see what the Word says about the need for the Savior. I believe that He is standing with outstretched arms waiting for you my friend! Do it today, won’t you!

PRAYER: Lord, we are a people looking to secure our earthly belongings, no matter how minimal they are. Thank You for reminding us in Your Word today how important it is to also surrender ourselves to You and allow You to secure our heavenly future. Please soften the hearts of all who will read this devotional today, and even more importantly, please speak to the hearts of those who have not given their allegiance to You a second thought. It is clear in Your Word, that we have no assurances of when You will return. It could be today! However, Your Word is clear that only those who have accepted Your Son, Jesus Christ, will see the glories of heaven. That’s something we all can do while we are still alive. May this be the day for many, I pray. AMEN!

The Results of Disrespecting God

On By Ed AlgreenIn Answered Prayer, Appreciation, Needs, Personal Witness, Praise, Recognize God, Reflection of Christ, Representation of the Master, Representative of Christ, Witness, WorshipLeave a comment

Tuesday, 2019-11-05

Bible Reference: 2 Samuel 12:13-14
Translation: Easy-to-Read Version (ERV)

Bible Text: 13 Then David said to Nathan, “I have sinned against the Lord.” Nathan said to David, “The Lord will forgive you, even for this sin. You will not die. 14 But you did things that made the Lord’s enemies lose their respect for him, so your new baby son will die.”

OBSERVATION: This is probably a subject that many readers will ignore, because in your own minds you are confident that you never disrespect God! However, just for the challenge, let us pause for a few moments today and see what God may have to say to us through His Word.

APPLICATION: Unless we truly meditate on what Nathan said to David, we could each jump on our high horses and dismiss this warning from God, by convincing ourselves that we never disrespect God. One Bible version states that David gave cause for the enemies of God to mock Him, while yet another version said that he gave reason for the enemies of God to blaspheme God. For those who may not be familiar with this story, we are told that although David used all kinds of secrecy tactics to hide his murder of Uriah, because of his sin with Uriah’s wife. Yet, much to David’s surprise, God directed Nathan to confront David about his sin and to detail the consequences for his sin. But notice that the emphasis of Nathan’s confrontation was not on how much David must have hurt Uriah’s family, or how selfish it was for David – a king who could have gotten anything, or anyone he wanted in the country under his reign – yet he stole Uriah’s wife. Notice how most people in the country probably had no clue that David and Bathsheba had an affair, for David never went to her home – but God knew. Notice how David used his army general to have Uriah killed in battle, and no one would probably have ever known that David was behind the murder – but God knew. But I want you to particularly notice that Nathan’s emphasis in his whole encounter with David was on the point of how his actions affected the image of the God – the very God that David served. Friends, I believe that many things happen in our lives and we do quite well at keeping it hidden from family, friends and the rest of the world. But when we stand in God’s presence and claim that we are what God expects of us, while deep inside there are lingering guilt about actions we have done that is totally opposed to God’s perfect will, should we not ponder what God must be thinking of us? Often, much to our surprise, when our sin occurred, there were probably some who looked on and pondered, ‘so is this what Jesus would do?’ For as a representative of God, our words and our actions remind people of God, or do they? The Word of God says that David’s sin caused those who were enemies of God to disrespect Him even more than they did before. Do you want to stand before God on Judgment Day and be guilty of something like that? Do you want to walk around knowing that you can’t face God each day in all honesty, because you are living in sin? Do you sometimes feel like a wolf in sheep’s clothing? The Word says that those who know my voice will obey my commands. Is that you my friend? Or do you know His voice and still act just like you want to? Please join me in committing to stop disrespecting our Father, and instead, learn to obey His voice and His teaching so that others will see Jesus very clearly in all that we are.

PRAYER: Loving Father, please touch the hearts of Your children today. If we say that we belong to You, please give us the boldness to live like we do. We are as a transparent glass in the the eyes of the world. They need, and they are often looking for the Savior of the world. Oh that they may have to look no further than us, as they share in our lives and watch our character every day. Oh that they may see Christ in me, is my ultimate plea today oh God. Please touch the hearts of each one reading this devotional today that they may also commit afresh to being a bold witness for You dear God. AMEN!