Gardening Faith: Growing While We Wait for Jesus

On 2025-05-24 By Ed AlgreenIn Accept Jesus NOW, Acknowledge God, All have sinned, Awesome God, God Cares For Us, God’s WordLeave a comment

DATE POSTED
Saturday, May 24, 2025, and I was blessed to be at Mariposa at Hunter Road, San Marcos, TX when God inspired me to prepare this devotional. My Footnote will tell you how to find and read any and all episodes that I have shared over the years.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
Read James 5:7-12 in your Bible or click on it to read it online in the New Living Translation (NLT).

APPLICATION – as inspired by the Holy Spirit
With everything being done quicker and quicker these days, there is probably not a better time to be reminded about being patient. Microwavable speeds and Instant Pots in cooking. Supersonic speeds in our military jets. Instant results from medical procedures like blood tests, MRI’s, CT Scans, X-Rays, etc. So, a believer may tend to believe that after accepting Jesus as Lord, you may awake next morning in heaven! Well, guess what, that is so very near what God might do, for only He knows the date of His Son’s return to earth to take away His bride, the church (believers). However, what it seems like the Holy Spirit is teaching us through His servant James is, how we are to act, and what we are to do while we wait for the day we are taken out of this world and into the presence of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. We may sing that wonderful old hymn, that never grows old, ‘When We All Get To Heaven’, a favorite of mine, and although that is THE most wonderful day a believer could fix their eyes, heart and mind on, we must believe that Jesus has a plan for our lives while we wait for that day. Let’s be reminded that idle minds could very easily be the workplace of the evil one!
Being from a farming environment, James used an example that the students of his ministry could immediately identify with. And while farming is still a viable example today, I beg you to think of relevant examples in your particular lifestyle and use it as an example to remind you of how productive, or non-productive, you become while you wait. My wife and I recently planted a very small garden, so this farming example is very relevant at this time! Here’s how I could explain it in light of the teaching by James:
–> We added a bag of miracle-grow soil to our gardening spot – For this little garden had been sitting nonproductive for several months with just weeds making their home there. So, we had to prepare the ground. This teaches me that as we prepare to share the love, and new birth found in Jesus, we may want to develop a relationship with the person, or people we feel may need to know Him as Lord. Prepare the ground for the Gospel.
–> We planted our seeds – all the while considering how much space that each particular vegetable would need to grow as the sed caught and the plant matured. In a church setting the method of evangelism stays pretty consistent, but as you survey those to whom you hope to minister, your consideration of their circumstances, education, religious background, and more, may all be varied. So, the Holy Spirit may use various methods in helping you establish a relationship of trust with the prospect first, before inviting them to know your Jesus. Also remember that many times you may plant the seed of faith into someone, but others may witness and celebrate the harvest!
–> Daily nurturing of the new plants – hydration, food (fertilizer), keeping external interference at bay – bugs, weeds, etc. Remember, no blossoms or fruit may show for days or even weeks, yet it is important to provide nurturing, if you expect to see fruit/vegetables at some point. Just as your salvation experience probably didn’t occur without some prior prompting by the Holy Sprit, so it might very well be with the prospect you are praying for and hoping to evangelize. Nonetheless, encourage them and root for them in every step of their walk with Christ.
Notice that all of the above steps teach us patience, as James genuinely reminded us in today’s Scripture. There is never an instant planting to harvesting ratio. Should I have opened the pack of seeds and let them empty on to the unprepared ground, then sat in front of my television each day and then expect to go out and harvest my vegetables, my wife would probably have admitted me to a, insane asylum! James is teaching us that while we wait for the BIG Day for all believers, the day that we see the face of Jesus together with His Father and the Holy Spirit, we must be about our Father’s business. Try fertilizing the soul with nuggets from God’s Word each day. God wants us to flourish in our Christian walk, so that we might be a fresh, growing, productive disciple for the Kingdom while still here on earth. For the unbeliever that may happen across this devotional, or that may be in search of hope from our Creator, please read my FOOTNOTE carefully and consider the helps provided. I have a second page to this blog also, ‘To Know Jesus’. please consider reading through it and the various Scriptures provided to help you understand how to change your life. This is my heart’s cry as I write each of these blog posts.

PRAYER
Dear Jesus, I am reminded that Your garden here on earth is very similar to my vegetable garden. Seeds for some people/plants are newly planted, and we patiently wait for them to grow above ground where they may be seen and recognized by onlookers. Some are growing slowly but need nurturing/encouraged along the way in order to make good, healthy and life sustaining plants/believers. While some are bearing fruit, for which we give You thanks, for only You can truly energize and nurture our plants and believers. Thank You Lord for not only being our Creator, but our sustainer, encourager, strength and everlasting hope while we wait for our time to join You in Heaven. To God be the glory! AMEN!

FOOTNOTE
If you have been challenged to make a decision today after reading this devotional, please take advantage of the information provided on my page ‘To Know Jesus’. Alternatively, consider speaking with a local Bible Teaching Pastor, or contact me at NuggetsFromGodsWord@outlook.com. One of God’s servants will pray with you and offer help and encouragement as you begin, or continue your walk with Jesus. If you would like to read more of my devotionals or subscribe to receive a daily email containing each new devotional, please visit NuggetsFromGodsWord.org. Friends, I encourage you to find a Bible teaching church home near your residence and attend as frequently as possible. Get to know God and allow His people to encourage and strengthen you in your Christian walk while you make every effort to be a blessing to them. God is at work among His people! Please consider being a part of that while also growing in your faith as you worship with fellow believers!

Understanding Jesus’ Teachings on Service

On 2025-05-23 By Ed AlgreenIn Accept Jesus NOW, Acknowledge God, All have sinned, Awesome God, God Cares For Us, God’s Word, ServiceLeave a comment

DATE POSTED
Friday, May 23, 2025, and I was blessed to be at Mariposa at Hunter Road, San Marcos, TX when God inspired me to prepare this devotional. My Footnote will tell you how to find and read any and all episodes that I have shared over the years.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
Read John 4:3-15 in your Bible or click on it to read it online in the New Century Version (NCV).

APPLICATION – as inspired by the Holy Spirit
In spite of Jesus teaching repeatedly that we are to serve, rather than be served, yet He demonstrated how important it could be to be served as well, based on the timing of the Holy Spirit. There are several important aspects of this familiar story in which the Holy Spirit ministered to me today, and in sharing my thoughts with you, I can only pray that God will also open your spiritual eyes to how He works in and through His children. Consider with me the following things from just the first half of John 4:
*-* Enroute to Galilee from Judea, Jesus was not afraid to go through Samaria – How often do we try to dodge that friend who spoke ill of us, or who seems to hate us, or appears to look down on us? The Jews looked down on the Samaritans as half-breeds, so although the path that Jesus took was the most direct route to Galilee, yet a Jew would go out of their way to avoid the possibility of coming into contact with the Samaritans. Friends, I am convinced that Jesus sees no ‘half-breeds’ or class of people. He created us all, and we all are precious in His sight. I believe He looks intently at the heart of mankind and either celebrates their relationship with Jesus, or He looks for ways to intently get in their way so they could be reminded of their need for a Savior. It mattered not that this was a woman, nor that she had multiple husbands, nor that Samaria was her home country. He looked at her heart, just as He does today when looking at us.
*-* Jesus asked to be served – I believe that most believers feel compelled to try and help others – to serve others, just as Jesus served His disciples at the Last Supper. If Jesus had asked to draw the water for the Samaritan woman, He would have served her need that day, and He may have even been looked upon as a gentleman. In allowing the woman to serve Him, it gave Him opportunity to compare the water she was giving, to the living water (life eternal) He could give to her. Yes, He knew where she was from and He knew about her adulterous background, but He also knew how lost she was in her heart. This causes me to stop and question myself as to who it is that I would feel intimated to serve or witness to about my Lord. Oh, that I may always use the criteria that Jesus used – what is the condition of their heart? Do they show signs of knowing Jesus? Who cares how rich they are, or how poor they are? So what if they are more, or less, educated than me. Oh, that I may never allow Satan to place excuses in my way to stop me from sharing Christ with an unbeliever, or to help a believer climb out of a dump into which they have placed themselves voluntarily.
*-* Jesus knew how this woman would impact others – Unless we are obedient to the Holy Spirit, we will merely see men and women going about their way. However, as this story develops, we know that this woman not only found personal peace with God, but she went on to impact her city. In listening to the Holy Spirit, He will guide us to similar individuals, in spite of our fears of rejection or our prejudices over various life scenarios. For the child of God who has an intimate relationship with Him and seeks to hear from Him daily through reading His Precious Word, we will know the Spirit that lives within us. He will never force us, or direct us, to do anything contrary to the Word of God. Man can only give us their opinion, but the Spirit knows the full picture and guides us accordingly. Listen careful and be ready to obey!
I am reminded of an old hymn that helps to relay the message I feel prevalent in today’s Scripture – ‘When we walk with the Lord, in the light of His word, what a glory He shines on our way. While we do His good will, He abides with us still, and with all who will trust and obey’!

PRAYER
You’ve shown us the way to go, and the right attitude we should have as we go. Thank You dear Lord for teaching us through Your Word – the Bible. Many were impacted because You chose to love, understand, and break down barriers of prejudice and pride. I don’t feel like we’ve done a good job learning from Your example Lord, so I pray that You will work mightily through every reader of this devotional. May we truly learn from Your teaching and be willing to follow in Your footsteps, so that all may know Jesus before it’s a day too late. John 3:16 tells us that whosoever believes in You will have eternal life. That leaves no one out, and nor should we in our daily witness. With Your power and Your grace, please draw all men and women unto You, and use us, if at all possible, please Jesus! AMEN!

How to Discern True Messengers of God

On 2025-05-202025-05-23 By Ed AlgreenIn Accept Jesus NOW, Acknowledge God, All have sinned, Awesome God, Commitment, God Cares For Us, God’s Word, Totally committedLeave a comment

DATE POSTED
Tuesday, May 20, 2025, and I was blessed to be at Mariposa at Hunter Road, San Marcos, TX when God inspired me to prepare this devotional. My Footnote will tell you how to find and read any and all episodes that I have shared over the years.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
Read Jeremiah 23:28-40 in your Bible or click on it to read it online in the New Living Translation (NLT).

APPLICATION – as inspired by the Holy Spirit
I can hardly imagine how much the hearts of the prophets must have been impacted by the messages given by God for them to deliver. Think about it, if you were given a message for a small group of friends, I feel pretty sure that you wouldn’t think twice about delivering that message. For your home church, that may be just as easy for you to deliver that message. But how about giving that same message before a crowd where other denominational leaders may be present, as well as many political leaders from your state? Might be a bit more challenging, right? But in our Scripture referenced today, God issued a word for Jeremiah to deliver to ‘prophets’. Now, Jeremiah was also a prophet, so he would be delivering this message to his contemporaries, and God wants them to be aware that He will not stand for false prophets any longer. No doubt, Jeremiah did some soul searching and questioning of God to make sure that no fingers were being pointed at him, before ever hitting the road to deliver this critical message from God! However, I feel like this is a moving example for those of us that move to a new area, and we begin searching for a new church, or while on vacation and we look for a church to visit. Unfortunately, our world has not learned a whole lot from what God said in His Word, for there are still pastors and churches who meld in much too much of the world’s ideals so they could, presumably, attract more of the world’s population. But can’t the people simply go to a movie theater or live show somewhere to get that kind of wishy-washy environment? When the Holy Spirit is tapping on the heart of a sinner to know Christ, or a believer to return to Him, don’t you think that they will opt to attend a local church instead of places like I gave in my example above? But how then will they know a legitimate, Holy Spirit empowered, and Bible teaching church? Is it the quiet one down the street, or perhaps the popular one on the other side of town, or should they travel to the next town where you’ve heard a lot about the good life groups and lots of programs they have? In addition to asking the Holy to guide you to a church where He knows you will grow in your faith, I believe that you can also use some of the principles from our Scripture today:
Vs 28 – God insisted that His ‘True Messengers preach every Word that He declares’. Try attending a church that preaches through every verse in the Bible. You will find some messages that will take you to another level of joy, and some that may really mash your toes because of truths that you need to adopt into your Christian lifestyle. They might even apply these principles to current day events to help you discern right from wrong in a biblical and Godly sense, rather than a political and worldly view;
Vs 35 – Take your tools to church with you. It is important that you have your Bible in your lap and that you follow along with what is being taught. The pastor in front of that church is human just like you, and some have been known to fail, just like you do at times. A good orator could make everything they say sound very believable, but when you are holding them accountable by reading the same Scriptures they are preaching from, you stand a better chance of ensuring that the reference in vs 28 is a reality – that they are True Messengers of the God you went there to worship and learn about.
As you leave that place of worship, examine the message in light of vs 35: What is the Lord’s answer delivered through the Word that day. And/or What is the Lord saying to you through the Word preached that day. If you struggle with this, contact that pastor and ask for clarification, or contact another pastor in whom you have already developed a good confidence level, and discuss the matter with him. Think about this dear friend: While on the internet, you do everything possible to make sure you are on a legitimate site and not a fake site developed under false pretenses in order to steal your confidential information. Emails you receive are much the same – legitimate or are they spam or junk? Why should you do anything less in selecting a church, or attending one, or in listening to the teaching/preaching of God’s Word from that church?

PRAYER
Dear Lord Jesus, You have taught us everything we need to know for salvation, righteousness and for living in obedience with Your Word. Yet we have allowed the world to soften our grip on obedience and the boldness to stand firm in spite of any worldly repercussion. We need more of You in every walk of life while here on earth Lord. Please continue to work on us and develop us into the children You would have represent You here on earth. Whether its false prophets or uncommitted Christians, I believe Your Word would indicate that both are tasteless in Your mouth and You would spit us out. Just as we could be good, committed, longtime employees, help us to be even more committed to our stance with You. Others need to see Jesus in us, otherwise we look more like the False Prophets You spoke of through Jeremiah. Please have Your will and way in my life, and also in the lives of those who recommit themselves to you after this reminder today. AMEN!

Understanding Our Role as Shepherds in the Faith

On 2025-05-19 By Ed AlgreenIn Accept Jesus NOW, Acknowledge God, All have sinned, Awesome God, God Cares For Us, God’s Word, Good ShepherdLeave a comment

DATE POSTED
Monday, May 19, 2025, and I was blessed to be at Mariposa at Hunter Road, San Marcos, TX when God inspired me to prepare this devotional. My Footnote will tell you how to find and read any and all episodes that I have shared over the years.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
Read Jeremiah 23:1-4 in your Bible or click on it to read it online in The Voice (VOICE).

APPLICATION – as inspired by the Holy Spirit
Some commentators believe that in our Scripture today, God is speaking to the political leaders/shepherds of the day, while others believe that God was addressing ministers of the church and town or country leaders. Whenever I discern God saying something that could possibly relate to me in His Word, I take particular note and seek His guidance to correct my ways to better align with His Word. You may wonder why I may feel a sense of responsibility in this challenge from God, so I believe I should share that while I feel like pastors are most often referred to as ‘Shepherds’ of their flock – the church, I could see very easily how town leaders could also be seen as ‘Shepherds’ of their flock – the townspeople who elected them. I also believe we should look deeper into our responsibilities as a Sunday School Teacher, a church Elder or a spiritual leader, as well as a father who is the spiritual leader of his home. For these are positions that God has given us responsibility over others to share the love and teachings of our Father, so that they may be drawn to our Master and Lord, Jesus Christ. Crime, disrespect and a divided town seems be some fallout from failure by town leaders. Church splits, gossip and turmoil among parishioners seems like something normally attributed to pastors and church leaders and often results in members exiting the church. Families are often torn apart, and children turn to the evil temptations of this world when fathers walk away from their God-given responsibilities. Children walk or run away from home, and we see many instances where there are decades of time where families are apart from each other without communication or any expressions of love, concern or care for one another. Friends, I hope by now you are beginning to appreciate why God might be challenging ‘Shepherds’ from all walks of life, and depending on your assignment in life, you may very well be impacted by what God spoke through the prophet Jeremiah. Here’s what I understand from the Word given by God through Jeremiah for ‘Shepherds’: If you fail, I will punish you for your negligence, and for the careless evil you have done. Then He will personally go after the remnant of believers (His sheep) who separated themselves from their earthly shepherd, bring them back and assign new responsible shepherds to them, who will make sure that no sheep ever strays again. I wonder, have you missed any fellow ‘sheep’ from church lately? I know of instances where members disappear and it’s 6 or more months before anyone notices they are gone. Families separate and while it’s always the other person’s fault, what might you tell God about the responsibility He gave to you to shepherd that son, daughter, sister, brother, or otherwise? Waiting to apologize for not being a good shepherd to them when they are laid out in a casket, is of no value. What if God called you, or them, home today? Remember, you can’t change the other person, but God will help you change yourself to be a better shepherd!

PRAYER
Thank you, Father, for never giving up on me! I know I wasn’t worthy of Your love and forgiveness, yet You went to the ‘unheard of’ extreme to sacrifice Your very own Son to facilitate the only way that I might seek forgiveness of my sin. Please Lord, forgive me and my fellow believers when we turn our heads in another direction, rather than running after that one sheep who felt left out and unworthy enough that they went their own way. Many believers stay away from church because of such bad experiences with ‘shepherds’ and their fellow ‘sheep’. Many family members stay disconnected from their family because of ill feelings and separation from ‘shepherds’ who stopped caring for the ‘sheep’ who look to them for nurturing. Please Lord, accept the cry of one, as I humble myself before You and seek Your forgiveness and ask for Your strength and guidance to be the kind of ‘Shepherd’ You desire. Please speak to the heart of each one who may read this devotional and plainly hear Your voice in asking them to seek You while You may be found. You are the ‘Great Shepherd’ and Your sheep are expected to follow You in obedience. May it be so, oh Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer. AMEN!

Understanding James 5: Wealth, Warnings, and the Heart

On 2025-05-12 By Ed AlgreenIn Accept Jesus NOW, Acknowledge God, All have sinned, Awesome God, God Cares For Us, God’s WordLeave a comment

DATE POSTED
Monday, May 12, 2025, and I was blessed to be at Mariposa at Hunter Road, San Marcos, TX when God inspired me to prepare this devotional. My Footnote will tell you how to find and read any and all episodes that I have shared over the years.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
Read James 5:1-6 in your Bible, or click on it to read it online in the Living Bible (TLB).

APPLICATION – as inspired by the Holy Spirit
While today’s Scripture tends to speak to the rich who may tend to oppress others, especially the poor, I believe we must also allow the Holy Spirit to examine our own hearts to remind us that we are not to try and move ahead at the expense of others. James was especially targeting the rich who took advantage of their workers by paying them poorly, or possibly not at all. Verse 4 speaks to the idea of God hearing the piercing cry of the poor as they highlight their challenge in trying to make ends meet and properly support their family, while the rich become richer, enabled by the minimal wages paid to their workers. I was reminded of an employee who shared her story of leaving, what I thought to be an excellent employer. Apparently the employer had just given a small increase in salary, so when he heard of the employee leaving for more money, he decided to question what he thought was a great employee. She responded, but Mr. Boss Man, my income with you is just not enough for me to take care of my family. When pressed on whether the recent salary increase shouldn’t have solved that problem, she told the employer that she realized he could never identify with, or understand, her dilemma, because his income is obviously so much more than hers. Some who read this will find excuses for the employer and they will act surprised that this employee was bold enough to say this in her exit interview. However, I believe that the Holy Spirit is using James to remind us of the same kind of self evaluation that the boss in my story probably went through. Friends, I was a senior worker in my employment for many years, so I know about the risks, the expenses and the challenges that an employer faces every month. However, I am still challenged by this Scripture, for often greed will set in and tempt an already rich person to reduce all levels of spending in their business, so that they could see the bottom line increase at unbelievable levels. I realize that television shows may not be a good example for us to look at in business, but shows like The Undercover Boss touches my heart. If only it would be true in real life business practices! For it’s not until you walk a day in the shoes of your employees, that you truly appreciate their challenges in providing for their families at the salary you are paying them. Now, I must beg that you indulge me as you read this devotional, for I know that we can’t make it without solid, astute professionals who own and run successful businesses. I know that our churches would struggle without the rich and financially secure members who attend, and give willingly to their church, as they reach forward with very challenging ministries that require extra help financially. But, we must not overlook the purpose for with James brought this to our attention, less we miss the point of this Scripture altogether. I believe that James was addressing the condition of the heart of a rich man, for not all are the same. When the heart of man has deteriorated to the extent that he is willing to run over, or take advantage of another man trying to make an honest living, so that he might emerge as someone with an excessive amount of cash, or net worth, then Satan has gotten to him and dragged him down to his level. When a child of God seeks to do the Father’s will and follow in Christ’s example, he will love his employees like Christ loved the church. Jesus showed His love by giving His very life for the church/people that is looking for eternity in heaven. To enter heaven, we must be without sin, and there is only one way to wipe away your sin, through the blood and sacrifice of Jesus Christ our Lord. Any employer/rich person seeking entrance into heaven, and living a life exampled after Jesus Christ, will treat their employees like Christ treats the church. Anything short of this will place mankind in the position challenged by James – they may as well prepare now for the wrath of God. Financial gain is not an incentive for God to receive anyone into His kingdom – nothing but the blood of Jesus, as that old hymn reminds us.

PRAYER
Thank You, Lord Jesus, for saving my soul. Thank You for your ever-living Word given to help Your children recognize right from wrong, and keenly aware of our sin. Thank You Lord for blessing many believers with way more than they deserve, and some are at the very top of our society in net worth. Our churches maintain and thrive through the generous giving of its members, so those that are financially capable could be a true blessing to help build Your work. Thank You for showing Your servant, James, the importance of honesty in our business world. Illicit gain is of no value to the kingdom, while honest gain promotes the Savior who made them successful. Please Lord, continue to bless those who have gained honestly, and those who manage to get by. May it be evident to us how Your work is funded by what You have made possible. Be glorified in us Lord, for though we may sometimes struggle financially, You bless us in so many ways. AMEN!

Deflecting Praise: Lessons from John the Baptist

On 2025-05-07 By Ed AlgreenIn Accept Jesus NOW, Acknowledge God, All have sinned, Awesome God, God Cares For Us, God’s Word, PraiseLeave a comment

DATE POSTED
Wednesday, May 7, 2025, and I was blessed to be at Mariposa at Hunter Road, San Marcos, TX when God inspired me to prepare this devotional. My Footnote will tell you how to find and read any and all episodes that I have shared over the years.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
Read John 3:22-36 in your Bible, or click on the Scripture reference to read it online in the Living Bible (TLB).

APPLICATION – as inspired by the Holy Spirit
The span of verses may seem large today, but I want us to seek the Holy Spirit’s guidance in what we should gleam from this passage of Scripture, for it seems so relevant to our ministries today. Just as our churches are busy about the Lord’s work today, John the Baptist was busy also about the Lord’s work in ministering through mass water baptisms. He had attracted quite a following of helpers/disciples and they were becoming territorial of what John was accomplishing for the Kingdom. Therefore, when the people reminded questioned John about a certain purification process for his baptisms, his disciples became agitated, or protective of John. I see this way too often today, for we also tend to become very protective of our church, our ministries, our programs, our leaders and our pastor, and we tend to forget who it is that truly stands at the center of our efforts as a church. Men will fail, dear friends, but Jesus stands firm until the end of time. John reminds us of an important principle to remember in ministry. We minister in the name of Jesus and make every effort to draw people nearer to the heart of Jesus, whether it be the team helping visitors to park their cars, greeters, members of the church, or our church leaders/ Let us all try to mimic the response of John. We are simply doing all we can, under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, to help people find a place that they could meet together with other believers to honor, worship, lift up in holy praise, and soak in everything we can learn from the Book of Instruction left by God for His people – the Bible. Think about it friends, all the people and/or church leaders you ever knew, cherished and enjoyed, have all passed on to new pastures, heaven, or retired. Jesus is the only one who was there for them, is here for us, and will always be there until the end of time, when He calls us closer to His side in Heaven. He is the only One who could save us from our sins, empower us with His perfect will for our lives, heal our diseases and prepare us for all eternity in Heaven with He and the Father. So let us be content in knowing that, like John concluded, Jesus is the one we live for, learn from, and of whom we share His good news to others. Let us therefore determine in our hearts to show people, and tell them, about our Lord, more than anything about our church activities and programs. Please don’t misunderstand me, it is critically important that we worship together and lift one another up as we all continue on our journey towards Heaven. But let us never forget that none of this will ever save anyone from their sin. Like John, let us determine in our hearts to prepare the way for the One (Jesus) who can save sinners and prepare their welcome party into Heaven. Make it your mission to deflect any praise, for all praise is due to our Father, who also saved us from our sin, and awaits our entrance into Heaven!

PRAYER
Thank You Lord, for saving my soul, thank You Lord for making me whole. thank You Lord for giving me to me, Thy great salvation, so rich and free! And as we are reminded of where our salvation comes from, let us also be quick to recognize that only You can save us, or any one that we may minister to, from our sin. So although we attempt to minister to others, in our meager efforts may we be bold in promoting and pointing them to You, dear Lord, the only One who can save them from their sin. Forgive us Lord when pride sits in and we turn to bragging about what we may have done. The words of that old hymn rings true as a reminder that it’s nothing but the blood of Jesus that can make a sinner clean. Please keep us focused on promoting You, as our Savior and Lord. As you draw close, may we become smaller and less important in every aspect of our lives and our ministries. AMEN!

How Church and City Leaders Can Work Together

On 2025-05-05 By Ed AlgreenIn Accept Jesus NOW, Acknowledge God, All have sinned, Awesome God, God Cares For Us, God’s WordLeave a comment

DATE POSTED
Monday, May 5, 2025, and I was blessed to be at Mariposa at Hunter Road, San Marcos, TX when God inspired me to prepare this devotional. My Footnote will tell you how to find and read any and all episodes that I have shared over the years.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
Read Jeremiah 19:3-5 in your Bible, or click on it to read it online in the Living Bible (TLB).

APPLICATION – as inspired by the Holy Spirit
As I meditated on Jeremiah 19 thru 21 my eyes were opened to God’s response to the leaders of the Israelites due to the disobedience of their people, and it seemed like a parallel to what seems evident in our cities, states and country today. Think for a moment about our holy and righteous God, the One who created us to worship and adore Him. He designed us in His own image, with every intent of us thinking, acting and speaking much like He did while He was here on earth, and like He commanded in His Word. Now, for just another moment, look at the criminal acts that occur in our very own cities – our own backyard. Does it resemble in the slightest what we believe God designed us for? A recent news article was probably one of the most gruesome stories I ever remember reading in my entire life. Our people have strayed so far from God, and they have allowed such wickedness and evil thoughts in their minds, that they resort to criminal acts that way exceed anything we could imagine. But just look into your local newspaper or watch your evening news and draw your own conclusions on how many stories speak of people that come close to imitating God’s design. Friends, in our Scripture today we are reminded of what God told the leaders of the people of their day who dishonored the plan set up by God. It wasn’t pleasant at all. In fact, unbelievers might look at us believers and question us about what kind of God we serve. In our secular world, we sometimes hear men say to their rebellious sons, “just remember, I brought you into this world, and I can also take you out”. That also sounds very cruel, but isn’t that what God was threatening the Israelite leaders about for allowing their people to ignore and abuse God’s law given for His children? So in reading this Scripture today, and knowing that we still serve the same perfect God who created perfect children to carry out His will and purpose, I could only ponder how His heart must ache when He sees all that our people do today. But how will our people do better, dear friends? Thankfully, we are blessed with some very healthy churches in our communities, but I question how effective are their ministries in touching the hearts of our city leaders, or how often our pastors are given opportunity to share with our leaders how their decisions are directly leading our people astray. Most of my working career was in a community where they bragged about old days where the City Council would check with the churches before finalizing their calendar of events, so as not to interfere with the work of God in their community. What if our City Managers allowed a monthly, or even quarterly meeting where approximately 4 of our church pastors could meet with our City Council and each share about 15 minutes from the Word of God, something that God might direct them to share? Can you imagine sharing today’s Scripture with that group? What if City Council members asked Pastors to encourage their congregations to help them concentrate on certain aspects of the City so that City and Church could join forces to improve our cities? Wouldn’t this be a blessing to see us work together for the good of our people, rather than each group operating independently and therefore often reaching for totally different goals? Dear Brothers and Sisters, we go to great extents to pray for those struggling in foreign lands, but let’s not forget to first pray that God will give us clean and holy hearts, so that we might spread the love of Jesus in our own land, making us somewhat worthy to pray for the spiritual needs of those abroad.

PRAYER
Lord Jesus, we read in horror what transpired in the days of Jeremiah, but then we quickly realize that our situation today, in our very own cities, are just as bad as, or worse than, our ancestors to whom Jeremiah carried the message of God. You, oh Lord, is our Master and Lord, and we look to You for direction, comfort, healing, wisdom and hope. Our local residents are led in a similar way by our city leaders, but it often appears like they are making decisions without a major arm of advice – the Christian community. We say ‘in God we trust’ and we brag on our Christian forefathers, yet it seems like our leaders are operating based on a feeling of having attained perfect knowledge and untouchable wisdom of their own. We hear of atrocities in our land, but seldom do we stop to ponder if this is Your way of getting our attention because of our indecision, wickedness and disobedience. You reacted in the day of Jeremiah, so we know that You can do it again. Please oh Lord, prompt us regularly to examine our hearts and ensure our walk is in line with Your teachings and Your commands, and give us a unique boldness to share that righteousness with everyone we come into contact with. Let them see, hear and understand Jesus, as a result of their encounter with us. AMEN!

Finding Strength in God’s Goodness

On 2025-04-30 By Ed AlgreenIn Accept Jesus NOW, Acknowledge God, All have sinned, Awesome God, God Cares For Us, God’s WordLeave a comment

DATE POSTED
Wednesday, April 30, 2025, and I was blessed to be at Mariposa at Hunter Road, San Marcos, TX when God inspired me to prepare this devotional. My Footnote will tell you how to find and read any and all episodes that I have shared over the years.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
Read Ecclesiastes 7:13-14 in your Bible, or click it to read it online in The Voice (VOICE).

APPLICATION – as inspired by the Holy Spirit
Earlier in my life, I lived in Highlands County, Florida. I remember asking a local resident why there was so much digging and dredging going on in and around the Kissimmee River that ran through that county. I was told that government authorities had decided that they needed to return the river back to its original twists and turns, as their earlier attempts to correct what God had designed, failed miserably! Now, mentioning this example is not intended to blast government officials who spent millions of dollars to try and make straight something God had deliberately made crooked, but it seems to fit today’s Scripture perfectly. Furthermore, government officials are made up of mankind, the same ones that practice this same error often throughout life. For just one quick example, think of the hairdresser who notices every week how those with curly hair, want it straight, and the same case in reverse all too often! We have heard it many times, that our God never makes ‘junk’, for He has our very best interest at heart for our entire lifetime. Often, it’s not until we intervene and try to correct His way, that we see failures and disappointments. Alternatively, Satan tempts us to compare ourselves to a friend and covet what they have, or a desire to change something about our appearance to hopefully achieve their looks/apparent beauty/apparent success. Think for a moment – we never answer all of our children’s questions, especially their many ‘why questions. all often for very good reasons! So, shouldn’t we expect there to be good reasons why God made us, and provided for us. certain circumstance in life that only He will understand the reasons why? Fortunately verse 14 goes on to further attract our thoughts and meditation, for it draws us to be reminded of the sovereignty of our awesome God. Most of us tend to live it up when times are good and the money is coming in like we want. We tend to recognize the goodness of God in providing abundantly for our good. But as soon as those funds dry up, or dwindle, we kind of question where did God go? In trying to develop a consistent spiritual viewpoint on life, it is important that we remind ourselves that ‘God is Good ALL the time‘, and not just when life is at its very best for us. God didn’t go anywhere when we became disappointed that we didn’t have the funds to buy the type car our neighbor gloats over every day. He wants us to be mindful of the car/house/spouse/child/life circumstances that we have. He intended them for our good, and knowing that He does all things for our good, we must be in a continual thankful attitude for ALL things. Let’s learn to praise Him in the sunshine and the rain, on payday and every day in between; in sickness and in good health; when life seems so, so challenging, and when circumstances seem to overwhelm us. Let’s remember, God is in control of all things at all times, so if we have committed our lives to Him and depend on Him daily, let’s praise Him daily in every circumstance of life. If things are rough today, there’s no need to worry, God knows what He’s doing and things will look brighter for us tomorrow, or the next day. A day with God, is always better than a day without Him, so let’s praise Him in light of, and in spite of, our earthly circumstances.

PRAYER
Thank You Jesus for watching out for us and guiding us through every circumstance of life. You designed us and You know every little itsy bitsy detail about every good thing we enjoy, and every challenge we face. Thank You for Your Word that we have proven true so many times in our life. Please Lord, prompt us to stay in Your Word every day for spiritual nourishment, encouragement, direction and strength. Help us to keep our eyes fixed on You, the Author and Finisher of our faith. In the good times, please encourage us to praise You for blessing us beyond anything we could imagine. In the challenging times, please remind us of where our strength and encouragement comes from. We KNOW precious Lord, that there is nothing, absolutely nothing, that You can’t handle or help us through. Please help us in our weak minds to always call on You. AMEN!

Why We Shouldn’t Judge Others in Church

On 2025-04-28 By Ed AlgreenIn Accept Jesus NOW, Acknowledge God, All have sinned, Awesome God, God Cares For Us, God’s WordLeave a comment

DATE POSTED
Monday, April 28, 2025, and I was blessed to be at Mariposa at Hunter Road, San Marcos, TX when God inspired me to prepare this devotional. My Footnote will tell you how to find and read any and all episodes that I have shared over the years.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
Read James 4:11-13 in your Bible or click on it to read it online in the Living Bible (TLB).

APPLICATION – as inspired by the Holy Spirit
It seems almost natural, or thoughtless, for us to pass judgment on others. It might be that their talent is not up to the standards we expected; or it might be that the individual is over-dressed, or under-dressed. compared to what we expected; or that their volume is too great or too small according to our keen ears. But what if that person was especially chosen by God to share a special word or song with us that day? What if they looked at us and saw all of our faults and inadequacies? I believe we must all remember that often the overqualified may not see the need to depend on God for their talents to deliver a message pleasing to our ears, or a song that will get us up and moving as we sing to God. But blessed is the man who looks at God and pleads for His perfect way in his life any time that he stands before us to preach, teach, or sing. Also, blessed is the congregation that pleads with God for, and accepts the leadership of the Holy Spirit in, every aspect of a meeting dedicated to the worship, praise and teaching of a child of God endowed with the power and leadership of the Holy Spirit. I often say that we receive as much from a church service as what we have put into it. If we’ve not prayed for, uplifted and encouraged our pastor, worship leader or other participants, then we should be satisfied as we leave, feeling like we’ve received all that we’ve put into that service – nothing at all. Furthermore, I feel like James is teaching us here to give God praise and honor for those He places in authority over us at church, and those who lead us to the throne of grace in worship and study of His Word. To ridicule, or bash the integrity or abilities or presentation of either of these church leaders is like telling God that He is not meeting up to your expectations. Friends, keep in mind that God is all-powerful and all-knowing, so when we feel like things have not gone, or is not going, like we expect, then it’s time to search inward and question what is distracting or separating us from the one, perfect God, to whom we have come to worship. Remember, when someone comes between you and God, then you have your priorities all wrong, for God must always be first. Let us choose to first worship and praise God, then we might be reminded that nothing stands between us and God. When a preacher or teacher seems inadequate to us, let us make sure that we are totally dedicated to reading and meditating on the Word of God every day, then to hear someone else expand on that Word will only life us up and encourage us as we realize that it’s more than us seeking the face of God through His Word. I am convinced that there will be no tiered levels at the foot of the cross when we bow before Jesus. While here on earth, we are all sinners seeking to know more about our Lord, and how we might honor and praise Him with our lives and experiences. At His feet we will be looked upon as His children who, through the grace of God, have won the race and stayed faithful to our Lord and Savior in all that we say and do. You must make the decision on whom you will follow, then join hearts and hands with other such pilgrims until the day He calls us home. Praise God for those who have chosen to bless us, teach us, and help us draw close to the throne of grace every week that we meet to worship together! To God be the glory for all the ways He draws us to Himself and blesses us in the circumstances of life!

PRAYER
I love that chorus ‘Holy Spirit Thou are welcome in this place’, and I am reminded that I should sing this more often and ask that You, oh God, make Yourself welcome in my life, each and every moment of every day, for I need to avoid the distractions of the evil one as temptations come my way and the thoughts of busyness that may cause me to not find time in the Word. Lord, I pray that each of my readers and I will always choose to say that reading Your Word, or praying to You, was not a priority for us today, instead of the usual excuse that ‘I just don’t have time’. May you always be first and foremost in our lives, and may Your Word always have the same priority, for It is our guide and reminder that You’re in control. Lord, ‘it’s me, it’s me oh Lord, standing in the need of prayer’ from my awesome and perfect God who chose to love even me. AMEN!

Finding Hope Through Faith in Jesus

On 2025-04-24 By Ed AlgreenIn Accept Jesus NOW, Acknowledge God, All have sinned, Awesome God, Forgiveness, God Cares For Us, God’s Word, Redemption, Sacrifice, SalvationLeave a comment

DATE POSTED
Thursday, April 24, 2025, and I was blessed to be at Mariposa at Hunter Road, San Marcos, TX when God inspired me to prepare this devotional. My Footnote will tell you how to find and read any and all episodes that I have shared over the years.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
Read John 3:16-21 in your Bible or click on it to read it online in the Living Bible (TLB).

APPLICATION – as inspired by the Holy Spirit
For just a moment, I want you to consider that your recent move into a large subdivision has shown itself quite challenging. You’ve discovered that many residents are trying to survive after losing their jobs over recent months. In fact, they’re not sure how much longer they can survive without a steady income by their family. You’re a kindhearted person and you want to show your love for your newfound neighbors/friends, what will you do? As you consider your response to that question, let’s look for a moment at what God did. He created a beautiful world, then He created human beings in His own image to worship Him, follow His commands and example, and to also populate the earth. Yes, He gave them free reign to think for themselves and to be themselves. Through Adam, Moses and many other prophets, God authorized them to help guide His children into doing what He expected, and to even encourage them to offer sacrifices in lieu of their sinful acts. However, God soon saw that plan was not working the way He wanted, so through miraculous means, He sent His very own Son into the world, knowing that at some point He would have to sacrifice Him, Jesus, for the sake of His children’s sins. Today’s Scripture tells us that Jesus came as an indication of the Father’s love for us. Animal sacrifices were just not working for redeeming the sin of the people. So God sent His only Son to settle the matter once and for all. He still wanted His earthly children to have a choice, so in knowing that sin could never enter Heaven, He offered us His Son for those who would choose eternity in Heaven with the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. This was our one-time sacrificial redemption for the sin of those who asked for forgiveness. In verse 16, I find the verbiage interesting, for it says that if you believe in Jesus, you will be saved and live eternally with Him. Imagine, if you believe that He is the Son of God; if you believe He is God – for the Bible says that we have God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit – He is 3 in one; If you believe Jesus is our all in all; our Deliverer from sin; our Healer of our earthly illnesses; our Friend – for He not only saves us, but also loves us beyond anything we could think or imagine; our Counselor – for He speaks with us through His Word and directs our path unto righteousness; AND our Security – in saving us from our sin and keeping us saved until He calls us home to glory. Friends, we have a Savior, His name is Jesus, a gift from God Himself. The choice seems imminent and obvious, but it’s one that you must make for yourself in order to be saved. Without it, knowing that sin is not allowed in Heaven, there is only one other place that will have you – Satan’s domain – Hell.

PRAYER
A very well known verse with an immensely powerful message, yet we are reminded of Your message of love, forgiveness and grace that is available to us because of Your sacrificial and powerful gift given to us through Jesus, our Lord and Savior. Thank You Father for loving us so much to do this for us. Thank You Jesus for freely surrendering to the agony, pain and humility of hanging on that cross at Calvary, when You could have easily called on many angels to free You from such agony and disgrace. We indeed are a blessed people, and we are so appreciative of such a loving Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Please Father, break down the walls of pride and stubbornness in the hearts of those who have yet to surrender to Your Son. May this be the day of salvation for many who might be reminded through this devotional today.

Nuggets From God's Word

Tag: Riverview Calvary Chapel