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!

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 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.

Finding Joy in What God Provides: A Reflection

On 2025-03-25 By Ed AlgreenIn Accept Jesus NOW, Acknowledge God, All have sinned, Awesome God, God Cares For Us, God’s WordLeave a comment

DATE POSTED
Tuesday, March 25, 2025, and I was blessed to be at Florida Hunting Adventures, Okeechobee, FL 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 it in your Bible or click James 4:1-10 to read it in The Message (MSG).

APPLICATION – as inspired by the Holy Spirit
I seldom quote the Message Bible, but when I present the scripture to my ‘Nuggets’ readership, I try to find the version that, I feel, best relays the message to you in an understanding, yet accurate, way. Friends, it seems like we are a people who ‘want’ everything we see, especially those things that others are blessed with. In our focal passage today, James, under the inspiration and direction of the Holy Spirit, helps us to understand, from God’s perspective, why our wants don’t always become a reality. Yes, very often this may even be the case for, what we feel are, the best ‘Christians’ we know. This might tend to play on our emotions, because we fail to understand why God would not allow His children to have everything, they/we believe we should have. Please allow me to encourage you to click on the Scripture referenced above and read this short passage of 10 verses. But before you do so, stop for a minute and ask God to open your eyes and understanding to what He wants you to gain from this. I can only share what the Holy Spirit opens my eyes and heart to. I remember in the working world, we would have several employees read over a government regulation, but often we would all come up with something slightly different, according to our approach and to what we wanted from the regulation! In our world today, there is no hiding of the fact that there are quarrels amidst the best of families, churches, social clubs and community groups, even when the majority of these groups consists of believers in Jesus Christ. In our Scripture today, I believe that God wants to peel back the evil desires that lurk inside of us and show us what He wants from a faithful servant with a pure heart who desires to do what God wants, rather than what we want for ourselves.
In verses 2-3, the Holy Spirit spoke deeply to my soul, in that although we are envious of what others might have, and we want so much more than what we already have, yet the Bible says that we refuse to ask God for it, because we know we shouldn’t have it – much like spoiled children. Think about how true this is! I love boats, so I might look at a beautiful boat and imagine my wife and I enjoying retirement cruising around the Bahamas leisurely. But then I wake up and realize that my current efforts in ministry, and my budget, would never afford that type of lifestyle, not even the upkeep of the boat. That’s just one example out of many that we could think of. Why lust over these things that God has not opened the doors of heaven to provide, or make available, to us? If we instead concentrate on doing the very best with what God has provided to us, and the opportunities He has opened the doors for, I am convinced that we would be blessed with a peace and joy that could only be attributed to our King who provides for His children.
Another favorite in today’s study is verses 5-6 from the NLT: God is passionate that the spirit he has placed within us should be faithful to him… Then Proverbs 3:34 is quoted: “God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.” Friends, we must always remember who we are, and who it is that reigns over us. This deserves humility on our part, for we are like dust. God created us in His image so them we may imitate His obedience, just as He is obedient to the Father, His love and actions for others so that they may experience the love of God through His people, and so that we may worship Him for choosing to love us and work through us. Friends, let us always remember that it is God who deserves our praise and our daily worship. Let’s continually give honor where honor is due for, He gives grace in abundance to His children. I believe that seasoned believers eventually learn to praise God not only when we feel blessed in every aspect of life, but also when we don’t get what we ask for. In both cases God is showing His love in giving us what we need and what we could handle to enhance our walk with Him. When we are faithful to God, we will recognize that He is always faithful to us. Let us live as children of the King – blessed and highly favored.

PRAYER
Because of my recent travels, this devotional has taken me a while to complete, but I am convinced that this is what You wanted me to receive from this Scripture that is rich in direction for the believer. Thank You Jesus for always loving us so much that You gently open the doors of understanding and pour out Your Word upon us, so that we might believe, obey and draw closer to You. I am convinced Lord, that if we do our part in drawing closer to You every day, that You will provide for our needs and show Your love in amazing ways that we would never expect or deserve. You gave Your very best for us oh Lord, please help us to be consistent in giving of our best to You every day, so that the world will take note and believe in the one true God. Especially those over whom we have the slightest influence. 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 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!

Transforming Faith: Lessons from Nicodemus

On 2025-03-15 By Ed AlgreenIn Accept Jesus NOW, Acknowledge God, All have sinned, Awesome God, God Cares For Us, God’s Word, SalvationLeave a comment

DATE POSTED
Saturday, March 15, 2025, and I was blessed to be at Advent Christian Village, Dowling Park, FL when God inspired me to prepare this devotional. My Footnote will tell you how to find and read any and all episodes that I have shared over the years.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
Read it in your Bible or click John 3:1-15 to read it in the New Living Translation (NLT).

APPLICATION – as inspired by the Holy Spirit
In 1987, my wife and I moved from the Bahamas to Florida. There was quite a challenge in the transition. After going through all government paperwork and approvals, we were allowed to live in Florida. But although we had visited many times, yet there was quite the transition to fit in with the natives and become a part of their world. In 2024 we felt led to move to Texas to be near our daughter and son-in-law living there. Just recently we were reflecting on the challenges we faced with the move, for again we wanted to fit in with the natives living there. In our Scripture, one of the rich Pharisaical leaders saw something unique about Jesus and His ministry so he wanted to understand it better and see if it was worth transitioning to the teachings of Jesus. When many come to church for the first time, they are probably like Nicodemus, who heard about the healing power of Jesus Christ. Something catches the attention of a non-Christian who then becomes curious of what these Christians do each week! Let me share with you that this is a lot deeper than most of you might think. For you see, the sinner wants nothing to do with Jesus, for Satan has given them much to enjoy here on earth. They are living their life of sin and Satan’s grip on them, and they are bound and powerless to handle anything Godly. However, the Holy Spirit takes responsibility for nudging the heart of one who needs Jesus. So although one attributes the good music, or the outstanding and charismatic preaching and teaching that their friends brag on at their church down the road, it’s not until the Holy Spirit steps in and pricks the heart of a person that they are able to look beyond their sin and recognize the miracles of God, the love of their Creator and the salvation offered through the sacrificed blood of Jesus Christ. I’m sure that Nicodemus felt like he had it all, knew it all, and was in a good spot with the religious leaders of his day, but suddenly he became enthused about the miracles of Jesus! That’s not normal without the tug of the Holy Spirit. I am convinced that this was not a coincidence, but rather, this was the day of salvation for this man, as God ordained it through the Holy Spirit to Nicodemus. Although there was not a list of tips and ideas for Nicodemus on how to make the transition to be a Jesus follower, Jesus knew exactly where he was, his level of understanding, and his need for a Savior. In the lessons taught to Nicodemus by Jesus, as outlined in today’s Scripture, they may seem strange to us, but when Jesus calls on us, He speaks to us where we are at – educationally, in the circumstances of our life, and our mindset about needing to change. There are some deep theological ideas about what Jesus meant and the reasons why He responded to Nicodemus the way He did, but lets try hard to recognize that it takes a total rebirth in our heart, thoughts and desires to transition from a worldly life of sin, to a life in Jesus, the only sinless One – a life that leads to eternity in heaven. Money didn’t do it for Nicodemus, nor did it help that he was a leader in his religious rights. Nothing, but the blood of Jesus can wash away our sin and make us new again. But verse 16 goes on to reassure us that this change is available to ALL who would believe on Him (Jesus). I pray that this will be your day of decision dear friends. Believe on the name of Jesus, and just like Nicodemus, you will be saved! I have experienced it, and so can you!

PRAYER
Dear Jesus, thank You for the assurance of our salvation, and the promise of eternity in heaven with You and the Father at a time already allotted by You. Thank You for blessing us with opportunities to share our testimony and experiences as children of our heavenly King. Please teach and empower us with opportunities to help redirect others towards heaven, and always help us to be ready to share the hope that lies within us. Please give us opportunities today, and prepare the hearts of those who need our meager influence, but the needed encouragement to hear Your voice calling them to salvation. May You be lifted up, and may many come to know You today – before it is too late. 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 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!

Finding Hope Through God’s Chastening Love

On 2025-03-08 By Ed AlgreenIn Accept Jesus NOW, Acknowledge God, All have sinned, Awesome God, God Cares For Us, God’s Word, HopeLeave a comment

DATE POSTED
Saturday, March 8, 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 it in your Bible or click Jeremiah 15 to read it in the New Living Translation (NLT).

APPLICATION – as inspired by the Holy Spirit
Some religions are so confident that we serve a loving and kind God, that they struggle to believe that He would discipline His children or refuse them into His Heaven. The Bible demonstrated over and over again how the God we know, love and serve is a loving and forgiving God. But for the student of God’s Word, interested in reading and understanding all the attributes of God, it becomes evident that love often requires discipline in order to change the sinful hearts of mankind. I would encourage each reader of this devotional to click on the Scripture reference above and read this short chapter of 21 verses. Like me, I believe your eyes will be opened to the just and fair hand of God as He deals with His people. We can see how Jeremiah was challenged to the extent that he questioned in vs 19 what might happen to him, Gods chosen vessel. Please allow me to point out a few verses where the Holy Spirit really got my undivided attention:
—> Vs 1: In response to the pleading of Jeremiah, God responded that even if Moses and Samuel came before Him, He would not change His mind about the harm that would come to the Israelites that sinned against Him. Don’t we frequently practice calling in the pastor, or the bishop or someone we honor in Christian leadership to call on God on our behalf because, we feel, He has refused to answer our prayers? So often we forget that ‘no’ is just as much of an answer as ‘yes’! After all, why ask God, if you have the expected answer already? Friends, the God who created heaven and earth, you and me, and holds this earth together, He knows what’s going on, and what will happen, so He knows the right answer for the right time, and He will not lead us astray.
—> Vs 2-3: I found it interesting that nothing was mentioned of the saved in the bunch of disobedient folks that God was dealing with! I was so impressed with what one commentator offered on this: (Courson’s Application Commentary (3 Vols.)) It’s important for us to understand that sometimes the Lord has to take us through hard times. We think it’s oh, so cruel, but in reality, it’s loving because He’s freeing us from certain tendencies, habits, and problems to which we’re in bondage. The Lord deals with us, chastens us, and breaks us that He might ultimately free us, bless us, and build us.
—> Vs 6-7: God is tired of giving us another chance. In these verses God chose to destroy His own people because they continued in sin after being warned repeatedly by Him. Don’t forget to recheck your opinion about our God being a ‘Just’ God. Remember, that works for the good, and also for the bad. In the New Testament we are reminded to not grieve the Holy Spirit by continuing to sin. Also, that God’s Spirit will not always thrive in us if we continue to ignore His Sprit. God is totally opposed to sin, for He has never sinned. If we strive to follow in the steps of our Master, then we also will seek His guidance to avoid sin.
—> Vs 15-19: In vs 15 Jeremiah applies this whole Scripture to himself, just like we do today when the Word of God is taught, preached and studied. The challenge that God gives to Jeremiah in vs 19 is something that I believe we should strive to live out daily, with the help of Almighty God. If we return to God, He will restore us so that we can continue to serve and represent Him before sinners. If we speak good words rather than worthless ones, we will be His spokesman. We must influence them and not let them influence us! All this is possible if we make it our priority to please God, and if we submit to His power, guidance and ultimate direction in this life here on earth. The ways of this world are totally opposite and different to God’s ways, so it will take His awesome power to redirect us and show us the way, the truth and the life – eternal life. With God, all things are possible.

PRAYER
Lord Jesus, thank You for your love and for being fair in everything You do. We love the times that You bless us with good news, good things, and hope for an awesome future with You and the Father in heaven. But we consider it challenging when, out of total love for us, You work on our attitudes, our bad choices and our desires to please those in this world, rather than in total obedience and commitment to You. Please help us today to stop and meditate on Your words, and the deep concern shown through Your teachings. Without correction or challenge, we might question whether You love us. So Lord, please help us to listen closely to Your voice, Your correction, and Your teachings so that we can follow in Your footsteps, for Your people need to hear from You, not from sinful folk like us. May we recommit ourselves to following You and living like You Lord. May You be glorified in everything we do and say. 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 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!

Nuggets From God's Word

Tag: Riverview Calvary Chapel