By Faith

On 2024-05-302024-05-30 By Ed AlgreenIn A Lamp unto My Path, Adoration, Answered Prayer, Appreciation, Awesome God, Beyond Description, Blessing, Celebrate God, Needs, Praise, Praise-worthy, Recognize God, WorshipLeave a comment

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

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE FROM THE New Living Translation (NLT) IS FOUND IN Hebrews 11:24-27; 29;

THE BIBLE TEXT IS: It was by faith that Moses, when he grew up, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter. He chose to share the oppression of God’s people instead of enjoying the fleeting pleasures of sin. He thought it was better to suffer for the sake of Christ than to own the treasures of Egypt, for he was looking ahead to his great reward. It was by faith that Moses left the land of Egypt, not fearing the king’s anger. He kept right on going because he kept his eyes on the one who is invisible.
It was by faith that the people of Israel went right through the Red Sea as though they were on dry ground. But when the Egyptians tried to follow, they were all drowned.

APPLICATION OF THE WORD: I find it interesting that attorneys will cite the outcome of previous cases similar to the one they are an active part of. It’s like saying to the jury, see, this is not the first time this same thing has happened, and there’s no need to reinvent the outcome of this, just follow suit with what a jury and judge already took days to reach a decision on, and follow through with sentencing. So how exactly is this different to the child of God who is facing a brand new challenge in their life? Hopefully, they could see from Biblical accounts that their situation was satisfactorily resolved by our ancestors when God became actively involved in their life and situation? Friends, I’m afraid that many today look at faith as a tool in their toolbox, that they could pull out and use when major events, beyond their control, occurs. Interestingly, those who have been to church at one time in their life, or have heard about the miracles of God, will attempt to use this tool as a quick fix for their problem, whether they know Jesus personally or whether they have a relationship with Him or not. However, let’s look at today’s Scripture and remind ourselves how was used by Moses. Remember that it was an encounter with God that brought Moses to his senses and helped him to realize that even he could be a toll used of God to fulfill His will and purpose. Yes, as a young man, Moses quickly acknowledged that he was no one special, nor did he even dream of being a leader of a few, much less a multitude of very challenging people that needed to be returned to their home country. After all, there’s military leaders especially trained for that type challenge. But God opened the mind and eyes of Moses to help him see how He (God) had been actively involved in his (Moses) life right from the very beginning of his life. Through the burning bush, God reminded Moses of how miraculous He was and how this would transcend down to every order given to Moses for the task ahead of him. Friends, God still uses similar tactics in our lives today to open our eyes of faith. We should always be opened to the mighty works of God in the lives of His children. We must be careful to no longer attribute the miracles happening in our life to ‘good luck’ or ‘happen chance’. If we are a child of the King and have a daily, active relationship with Jesus Christ, then let’s be reminded that if God sent His very own Son to save us from our sin, there is nothing that He wouldn’t do to save us from the wrath of this wicked world, if we ask Him to? If He used unusual circumstances to get through to us and cause us to surrender to Him, is there any reason He wouldn’t use even us to minister to those that we come into contact with? Please take some time and meditate on the miracles God performed through Moses for the benefit of His people. Try going to church for more than just checking off that box on your weekly To-Do list, but instead, anticipate encountering saints who have been touched by God, listen to their faith stories and hear the excitement of what God has done in their life. God will use these things to energize your faith. He did great and mighty things through the humility and willingness of Moses, there is no reason that He couldn’t, or wouldn’t, do the same thing through you, if you surrender your life to Him, and in faith, trust Him to use even you to complete His mission in your part of His world. Moses obediently lifted his rod and the waters of the Red Sea parted so his people could cross over without drowning; he struck a rock with that rod and water gushed forth in the desert to ease the thirst of his thirsty people. Perhaps there’s a ‘Red Sea’ that is challenging you today and blocking the progress of those looking up to you, listen closely as God tells you how He will part the waters to let your people through safely. God is all-powerful and mighty in every way. I believe He wants to come alongside of you and help you overcome your life’s challenges today. In faith, let Him do it, my friend!

PRAYER BECAUSE OF THE IMPACT OF TODAY’S SCRIPTURE: Thank You Lord Jesus for seeing the faith that existed in Moses, and thank You for also recognizing the lack of faith in Peter when he looked away from You. I am convinced that there’s a mixed bag of faith in my audience today also as they read this devotional. I pray that You will once again show forth Your power, so that Your children will be strengthened in their relationship with You. Each day we need a renewed and refreshed look at our Master so that our faith will reach new heights and allow You to fulfill Your mission through us, Your humble servants. Please forgive us when we doubt and faulter, Lord. May Your kingdom come and Your will be done, on earth, even through us, today and every day. AMEN!

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

To Be Like Joseph of Arimathea

On 2024-05-282024-05-28 By Ed AlgreenIn A Lamp unto My Path, Adoration, Answered Prayer, Appreciation, Awesome God, Beyond Description, Blessing, Celebrate God, Needs, Praise, Praise-worthy, Recognize God, WorshipLeave a comment

DATE POSTED: Tuesday, May 28, 2024, and I was blessed to be at Advent Christian Village, Dowling Park, FL when God inspired me to prepare this devotional. My Footnote will tell you how to find, read or listen to any and all episodes that I have shared over the years.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE FROM THE New Living Translation (NLT) IS FOUND IN Luke 23:50-52

THE BIBLE TEXT IS: Now there was a good and righteous man named Joseph. He was a member of the Jewish high council, but he had not agreed with the decision and actions of the other religious leaders. He was from the town of Arimathea in Judea, and he was waiting for the Kingdom of God to come. He went to Pilate and asked for Jesus’ body.

APPLICATION OF THE WORD: Having read, heard, and learned about the man who took Jesus down from the cross, I never stopped to ponder who this man really was. Would I have been bold enough to do what Joseph did? Although we live in a free country where worshipping God is uninterrupted by our government, yet many Christians will only go so far in their public association with Jesus Christ. Some will attend a church service occasionally, as long as that service is held in a traditional church building. Don’t expect them to show up at a public meeting held at the courthouse grounds, or in a public square. It’s the preacher’s job to evangelize, so you may never see some ‘Christians’ telling others about their faith. But let us examine what the Bible says about this man who chose to take Jesus down from the cross:
> He was a ‘good’ and ‘righteous’ man – Many men we know might be ‘good’ in our eyes, but we know that term is used differently by some, so they might describe those same men using totally different adjectives. However, when you include the word ‘righteous’, like most Bible translations do, it adds a different dimension in describing a man, for you then claim that the man is ‘right with God’. Ever heard your friends refer to someone you know as a ‘righteous’ person?
>> He was a member of the Jewish high council – Even more astonishing than the above, have you ever heard anyone refer to a member of government, or a member of a committee/council elected by a government office, as ‘righteous’? Yet this was a description given to Joseph.
>>> Guilty by association, but… – As a member of the council that voted to present Jesus guilty of claiming to be the ‘king of the Jews’, it would be easy for everyone to claim that you are guilty of condemning Jesus. As such, you may hide yourself from the public eye, and especially avoid going anywhere near Jesus. But Joseph was more concerned about his Lord that he served, than he was about what government leaders, or Pilate would say. Imagine how you would feel if someone accused you and your church for protesting around the courthouse over some case that was brought against your pastor, even though you opted not to be a part of the protest? I’m sure Joseph was ashamed of the decision made by the popular vote of the Council on which he served, but it didn’t hinder him from responding to the cry of his Master, crucified for no actual crimes committed.
>>>> He lived in expectation of the Kingdom of God – This means that Joseph believed in what Jesus taught, and he lived in expectation of the trumpet call. Hopefully you are hearing the gospel at least every week, so you are constantly hearing about the soon coming return of Jesus to take His bride, the church, home to glory. Are you looking up in expectation? Are you warning your neighbors, like you would do if certain danger was approaching? Does everyone know what you are looking for every day? Anyone ever asked you to help them prepare for that expectation?
Friends, if you and I live our lives with the above qualities foremost in our minds, don’t you think that we too might be willing and ready to overcome all odds of arrest, cries of protests against us, or the mockery that some will impose upon us, to do everything within the power and will of the Holy Spirit to live a life that may force others to see what Jesus sees – a good and righteous man or woman, living with the daily expectation of the return of Jesus, our Savior, to take us home to be with the Father for all eternity? I heard an excellent phrase from my pastor yesterday – the Gospel is true. May others see enough of it lived out in us that they will come to believe the Gospel!

PRAYER BECAUSE OF THE IMPACT OF TODAY’S SCRIPTURE: Parents are often proud of what their children achieve in life, because it often reflects on their upbringing. Daily You touch the lives of Your children, dear Lord, and we will occasionally see men and women with similar qualities to that of Joseph, who volunteered to take charge of removing Your body from the cross and prepare it for burial. The world is still looking for people, especially Christians, with qualities similar to those You showed and taught, and also like those demonstrated by Joseph of Arimathea. Please continue to work in us so that we may never look at what we may have achieved in life and allow that to hinder our commitment to You, or place ourselves at a level where we feel someone less important should do the ‘dirty’ work. You showed us on the cross that You were the perfect one to make such a sacrifice. Help us Lord to always be willing to obey You and serve You without ever questioning, or looking down on a task that, we feel, is below us. Please let ‘service’ be our motto that we strive for, and may Your holy, yet humble example always be our guide. AMEN!

Reminded of Where Our Strength Comes From

On 2024-05-24 By Ed AlgreenIn A Lamp unto My Path, Adoration, Answered Prayer, Appreciation, Awesome God, Beyond Description, Blessing, Celebrate God, Needs, Praise, Praise-worthy, Recognize God, WorshipLeave a comment

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

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE FROM THE Good News Translation (GNT) IS FOUND IN Isaiah 50:4-8

THE BIBLE TEXT IS: ….Every morning He makes Me eager to hear what He is going to teach Me. The Lord has given Me understanding, and I have not rebelled or turned away from Him. I bared My back to those who beat Me. I did not stop them when they insulted Me, when they pulled out the hairs of My beard and spit in My face. But their insults cannot hurt Me because the Sovereign Lord gives Me help. I brace Myself to endure them. I know that I will not be disgraced, for God is near, and He will prove Me innocent….

APPLICATION OF THE WORD: For the child, or adult, who devotes their time to watching television, they will learn the words and habits of those acting in the shows they watch. What is absorbed by the heart, will be revealed in their words and actions as they face the world. Why? Because that’s the prominent thing in their heart, and therefore the only thing that will trigger their response to life events. However, God created us and placed us here on earth so that we might honor Him and be like Him in every way. Isn’t it obvious that one will become irritable and miserable if they were made for one thing, but because of their intake of other other worldly ideas and practices, they act and respond in a totally opposite manner to what what God intended? Is there any wonder why some turn to crime and acting out worldly hatred towards others? In today’s Scripture, Isaiah is teaching us way before the birth of Jesus Christ what God has in store for the world centuries later when He will produce a Son, equal to Himself, to reinforce what He wants us to learn and how He wants us to be His witness. Notice that Jesus credited His Father for alerting Him each morning to what He wants Him to learn that day, and how to be best prepared for any eventuality that day. How are we doing with this dear friends? The news channel will not teach us the truth of our God. The children’s animated channel will not teach our children God’s way in preparation for their day. Many will respond that they have no time in the morning for opening the Word of God to hear what He might teach them. Please try to use the words ‘It was not a priority for me to open God’s Word this morning’. It is the sole reason why you left no time to open the Good Book, so go ahead and tell God what He already knows. But now let us examine what challenges we face in following the next steps mentioned by Jesus – Obedience: I believe that way too often we care more about what we might look like in the eyes of our coworkers, or peers, than in what we might say to God why we didn’t follow His teachings. On the cross, Jesus obeyed His Father, rather than following in His own strength and endless power to recuse Himself from the whippings, hair plucking, verbal abuse, shame and disgrace of that awful day on that cross at Calvary. Why? Because He had one goal in life – to honor the will of His Father. Are we there yet, or do we have way too much of the world in us that our souls are conflicted and determined to please our friends over our Savior and Lord? I love the very first part of verse 8: ‘I know that I will not be disgraced, for God is near, and He will prove Me innocent!’ Praise the Lord for His love, teachings, and His promises to be with us through all the ages, until He calls us home to glory.

PRAYER BECAUSE OF THE IMPACT OF TODAY’S SCRIPTURE: Lord, there is no comparison to anything we know here on earth, versus what we find in You, so we thank You Lord for who You are and especially for all that You are to us, Your children. Our concept of all things are totally flipped when we read about Your characteristics and Your unconditional love for us. Please forgive us for saying that we believe, yet we struggle to accept, obey and live like You want us to do. This is yet another reminder of where we must turn to for our daily strength. Please continue to work on us and give us boldness and determination to stay true to our commitment as a born-again child of the King. Others need to see and experience You. Oh Lord, please let us be that example for them and may their hearts be warmed to know that You are alive, indeed alive in and working through us. AMEN!

How Will They Know?

On 2024-05-18 By Ed AlgreenIn A Lamp unto My Path, Adoration, Answered Prayer, Appreciation, Awesome God, Beyond Description, Blessing, Celebrate God, Needs, Praise, Praise-worthy, Recognize God, WorshipLeave a comment

DATE POSTED: Saturday, May 18, 2024, and I was blessed to be at Advent Christian Village, Dowling Park, FL when God inspired me to prepare this devotional. My Footnote will tell you how to find, read or listen to any and all episodes that I have shared over the years.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE FROM THE New Living Translation (NLT) IS FOUND IN Isaiah 49:25-26

THE BIBLE TEXT IS: But the Lord says …. For I will fight those who fight you, and I will save your children. I will feed your enemies with their own flesh. They will be drunk with rivers of their own blood. All the world will know that I, the Lord, am your Savior and your Redeemer, the Mighty One of Israel.”

APPLICATION OF THE WORD: Have you ever stood by in amazement while someone you just met for the first time tries to figure out if the lady walking around with you is actually your wife? Or perhaps the boy that you are explaining everything to, is your son? What if everyone tried to size you up on whether you’re a Christian, or not? Would they have a hard time figuring that out? In this intriguing chapter of Isaiah, God had started introducing His Son that would come to save the world. His audience were only used to their one-on-one battles where one of the armies would be decimated, or turned away in defeat, while the other stood victorious. But in verse 25 we are seeing where God said He would fight their battles for them. Think about it, God ordered that His people, the Israelites, should be rescued from slavery in Egypt and return to their homeland. Although immense in numbers, these people were hardworking and used to manual labor, but they were slaves of Herod, the king of Egypt. They were no match for the power and might of the Egyptians, so of course they questioned how they could possibly get away from the Egyptians, survive in a harsh desert for many years, and then find a place to call home again, even though it was a land that they left many years ago. But unlike what they saw as possible in their human minds, God had a plan that only He could complete. Miracle after miracle in providing food, water, protection and direction, should have been more than enough to prove His omniscience and His power, but this was a stubborn and hard bunch to reach. We still have people like this today that we come into contact with. Perhaps neighbors, or church attenders, or coworkers, or students. But do they see enough of Jesus in ‘Christians’ today to conclude in their minds about His existence, His power, His willingness to help us through our struggles, and His plan for us after this challenging world has completed it’s pick on us? Dear friends, I have no doubt that God says the same thing to us today as He did in assuring the Israelites of His character and power: I will fight those who fight you; I will protect your children; I will attend to your enemies by repaying them harshly for what they have done to you; THEN you, and all those who know you, will know that I indeed am the God of this universe; your Savior; your Lord; your Redeemer; your everlasting Father, who has prepared an eternal home for you where you will live forever with the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. But child of God, do those around you know and see all this based on your relationship with Jesus Christ? Do they see it lived out in your home? Is it obvious in your character; your work ethics; your relationship with others and in your church? Many will meet Jesus because of what they see in, and experience with you. Oh that they will see Jesus, high and lifted up!

PRAYER BECAUSE OF THE IMPACT OF TODAY’S SCRIPTURE: Nothing on earth compares with You Lord, so I thank You for setting such high standards for us. We could never be You, but I pray that You will give us boldness and a deep desire to learn as much as we could about Your character, that we will reflect You, and reflect You in every aspect of our lives. We have nothing to brag about in our self-worth, but when we invite You to live inside of us, You are everything that the world needs. Please bless us oh Lord, so that we may be a blessing to others and Your name glorified in every aspect of our lives. AMEN!

When Others Are Impacted By Our Lives

On 2024-05-062024-05-06 By Ed AlgreenIn A Lamp unto My Path, Adoration, Answered Prayer, Appreciation, Awesome God, Beyond Description, Blessing, Celebrate God, Needs, Praise, Praise-worthy, Recognize God, WorshipLeave a comment

DATE POSTED: Monday, May 6, 2024, and I was blessed to be at Advent Christian Village, Dowling Park, FL when God inspired me to prepare this devotional. My Footnote will tell you how to find, read or listen to any and all episodes that I have shared over the years.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE FROM THE The Voice (VOICE) IS FOUND IN Proverbs 27:17

THE BIBLE TEXT IS: In the same way that iron sharpens iron, a person sharpens the character of his friend.

APPLICATION OF THE WORD: After her husband’s death, I recall telling a new widow how her husband impacted my life while living under their roof for a short while, and she acknowledged being warmly touched by that testimony. That husband’s life was not in vain, because his life had impacted at least one person, and I strongly believe many others were also touched by him. I feel like this is similar to what the Scripture teaches through this proverb today. Whether we care to acknowledge it or not, life consists of daily encounters with others who help to shape our lives – our eternal destiny, character, mannerisms, compassion and possibly even our speech. This may not always be in a positive manner, but with the help of God, the Holy Spirit can direct us to the right folk, and away from those who will tear down our testimony. Because of the relationships we develop with others, our lives change, and we become either: more likable to others, despised, or possibly even envied. As a child, we tend to live our lives trying to please our parents. As teenagers, we tend to try and please our peers. As adults we try to please our spouse, while also trying to set an example for our children. In our workplace, in our social activities, and in community activities, we tend to earn the respect of others, if we reflect characteristics that positively impact them, and show them that our upbringing and our relationship with Jesus Christ has affected our life, even through the challenges of this wicked world. Find a good, dedicated pastor or Christian friend, and you will see that others are drawing close to them because they want some of what they see in them. Read the Bible and allow the Holy Spirit to speak to you and direct your path to a life of obedience to the life and teaching of Jesus Christ. However, this Scripture clearly teaches that the character of another person will impact us. Should we hang out with the wrong crowd, we could easily see that their ungodly character is rubbing off on us and our own character is suffering, and deteriorating from ungodly habits and speech. For the child of God, the Holy Spirit lives inside of us to guide, protect and teach us the ways of our Savior and Lord. Let’s learn to not fight those nudges and redirects that tend to move us along to other friends. I believe the intent of this Proverb, is to teach us to not only protect our godly character against the ills of the evil one, but to consciously pulling alongside those who need encouragement, strength for another day, and drawing closer to their Master so that they could walk and talk like Him. For you see, they too want to go on to sharpen the character of their family and friends looking for Truth among the lies of Satan; Love others among the hatred expressed in so many ways by the world; Hope among the despair many of the unsaved tend to feel with Christ; and expectations of a brighter day coming when we will no longer deal with this world, but rather kneel at the feet of the Holy of Holy’s and offer up endless praise and worship for all eternity. Dear friends, seek the Lord while He may be found and allow Him to direct your path, even in a lost and cruel world. Seek to impact the lives of others for the better. Good friends work to rub off dull edges and make each other better. That’s why we need ministries and churches that are full of men and women talking about more than work, the weather, and sports. Oh that others will see, hear and experience Christ in us through each encounter with them!

PRAYER BECAUSE OF THE IMPACT OF TODAY’S SCRIPTURE: Precious Lord, it is because of the work of Your Holy Spirit working through a prayer warrior and giving him boldness, that I walked the isle of my church in Nassau, Bahamas. That gentleman wanted me to be better than I was, he wanted to introduce me to his Master and Lord, so that my character my be developed into one of Christ-likeness, and my destiny become one that would be secure in the glories of Heaven. Thank You Lord Jesus for using that friend and at just the right time. Over the years I have had opportunity to come alongside many who needed You, and until I stand beside You, I may never know how many made decisions to accept Your lordship. Please Lord, continue to place each reader of this devotional into a place of opportunity to enhance the spiritual lives of others so that they may be drawn to You. May we become enhancers of the faith, and one who will shape others into becoming better men and women who would accept and serve You until you call us home. AMEN!

How To Measure Your Faith

On 2024-05-032024-05-03 By Ed AlgreenIn A Lamp unto My Path, Adoration, Answered Prayer, Appreciation, Awesome God, Beyond Description, Blessing, Celebrate God, Needs, Praise, Praise-worthy, Recognize God, Worship1 Comment

DATE POSTED: Friday, May 3, 2024, and I was blessed to be at Advent Christian Village, Dowling Park, FL when God inspired me to prepare this devotional. My Footnote will tell you how to find, read or listen to any and all episodes that I have shared over the years.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE FROM The Message (MSG) IS FOUND IN Hebrews 11:6

THE BIBLE TEXT IS: It’s impossible to please God apart from faith. And why? Because anyone who wants to approach God must believe both that he exists and that he cares enough to respond to those who seek him.

APPLICATION OF THE WORD: It might be interesting for you to try and write down what you believe about ‘faith’. Do you have faith? Is it a strong faith? In whom do you have faith – doctors, pastors, bankers, investment strategists, your spouse, God…?? Which of these do you turn to when you feel like you have reached the end of your efforts on a desperate issue, or perhaps before you make a major, life-impacting decision? Although I found the whole chapter of Hebrews 11 extremely interesting, the Holy Spirit seemed to have really caught my attention in the words of our focal verse today. You see, some may struggle to complete the exercise I asked you to place in writing, for they feel like they have no faith at all. Yet, when they seem to be over their heads in debt and challenged by the circumstances of life, many who will not entertain the idea of God, or church, or even Christians, yet they will run to Social Media and request prayers, or they will call a trusted friend to pray for their need. Why is that? Could they have a touch of faith? Could it be that they really do believe in the power of God, especially when desperate about circumstances such as what they are currently facing? This Bible verse today seems to clarify that very question: If they believe that God exists, and surely they must, since they are asking for prayer from the Creator of the world. AND because they think that God cares enough about them to understand their concern and answer their prayer, then obviously they are exercising their faith in God by asking friends and loved ones to pray for them. So why are they not bowing before our holy God to make personal petitions before Him? Well, remember the curtain in the temples of old, where the priests were on one side and allowed direct access to speak with God, while the people occupied the other side of the veil and had to ask the priests to petition God on their behalf? Yes, you and I know that the temple veil/curtain was eliminated at the time Jesus was crucified, giving direct access to the Master by those seeking an audience with Him. However, I feel like our friends and loved ones mentioned above may be challenged to stand before God and pray for anything other than their sin that separates them from the holiness of God. At times, this refusal to approach God directly may be because individuals are so caught up in their earthly obligations to a loved one lying on a hospital bed of affliction, or perhaps too close to a very bad situation, that they just can’t pull themselves together to pray, so they ask us who are prayer warriors and thinking straight, to pray for their situation. I’m not God, but I am convinced that God knows us better than we know ourselves, so He knows if something is separating us from His unconditional love and His powerful and all-sufficient power. Suffice it to say, dear friends, no one will come boldly before a God that they have no relationship with, just like you wouldn’t walk up to a stranger and assume a loving and caring concern for you and your needs. So let me encourage you today, know God and know that peace that passes all human understanding. Know God and know the power that He posses and the love that He has for all mankind – yes even you in your state of sin and unforgiveness. He desires relationship with you – His precious creation. Just as walking up to your daddy and asking for provisions to help you through a day, it is just as easy to ‘clear the air’ (ask forgiveness of your sin) between you and God – your heavenly Father. It is only then that you will be comfortable in kneeling before Him and asking for the many other needs that will come your way each day. Let no one, or no thing, separate you from the love of God!

PRAYER BECAUSE OF THE IMPACT OF TODAY’S SCRIPTURE: Lord, we believe. Please help us see and understand the areas of our life where our faith is not strong enough, or our conscience clear enough to approach Your throne and have open communication with You. We are a needy people Lord, and we need You ever hour. Please speak to us continually so that we may see those obstacles that often separate us. Help us Lord to always be at ease in approaching Your throne for every concern, every day that You allow us to remain here on earth. For Yours is the kingdom and the glory, for ever and for ever. AMEN!

Talking About A Production!

On 2024-04-292024-04-29 By Ed AlgreenIn A Lamp unto My Path, Adoration, Answered Prayer, Appreciation, Awesome God, Beyond Description, Blessing, Celebrate God, Needs, Praise, Praise-worthy, Recognize God, WorshipLeave a comment

DATE POSTED: Monday, April 29, 2024, and I was blessed to be at Advent Christian Village, Dowling Park, FL when God inspired me to prepare this devotional. My Footnote will tell you how to find, read or listen to any and all episodes that I have shared over the years.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE FROM THE New Living Translation (NLT) IS FOUND IN Luke 23:44-46

THE BIBLE TEXT IS: …By this time it was about noon, and darkness fell across the whole land until three o’clock. The light from the sun was gone. And suddenly, the curtain in the sanctuary of the Temple was torn down the middle. Then Jesus shouted, “Father, I entrust my spirit into your hands!” And with those words he breathed his last.

APPLICATION OF THE WORD: As I meditated on this Scripture today, I envisioned what Hollywood movie producers must see before they could really build a movie set. Now, I realize that in no way did God build a movie scene for our entertainment through the amazing stories in His Word, especially considering that this story involved the crucifixion of His precious Son. But if by any chance you ever doubted the multitasking possibility of God, or His magnificent plan for man’s salvation, then it might behoove you to spend a little time reading this 23rd chapter of Luke. Think about it, God’s precious Son, Jesus, had gone through terrible abuse by men who had falsely accused Him. They insisted on crucifixion for an innocent man, whom their leaders could find no fault in, versus the death of a criminal imprisoned for murder. I’m sure that God was probably agonizing as He saw Jesus hanging on that cross, even if He was witnessing to the criminals who hung next to Him, and to the very crowd who were jeering at Him. God knew that the time was near for Jesus’ final breath, so He caused something to occur in alignment with something that was prophesied years before in Amos 8:9 – “In that day,” says the Sovereign LORD, “I will make the sun go down at noon and darken the earth while it is still day. This was nothing like we recently witnessed with the eclipse, and most of you will remember the attention that received. Total darkness fell upon the earth, in the middle of the day, for three hours. One commentator said that ‘It wasn’t possible for the Son of God to be rejected and killed without it causing an ominous reaction from his creation.’ (Tony Evans Bible Commentary). I like that idea, but we must not lose sight that all this was coordinated and commanded by God Almighty – the only one with ultimate power over His creation. But wait, this also was in alignment with prophesies from long ago – for although in Exodus 26:33 we are given the reason for the curtain in the temple – to separate the people from the direct holiness of God, yet we know that God sent His Son so that all might be saved who call on Him as Lord and Savior of their life. With the death of Jesus on the cross, the need for the curtain became obsolete. Mankind could approach the Savior of the World one on one! So friends, I hope that you will see and understand the single most important purpose of the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. For it is only through believing and accepting the resurrected Lord as Savior of our life, that we become eligible for the holiness of heaven and our meeting with the triune God that lives there, for He will welcome us home where He abides, when life here on earth is finished. With all the prejudice of today’s world, it may be difficult to understand that Jesus did this for us all – all who call on Him as Lord and Savior to rule and reign in our lives until God calls us home! I can hardly wait dear friends, and I pray that each of you will make that call to accept the love and leadership of Jesus as your Lord and Savior also!

PRAYER BECAUSE OF THE IMPACT OF TODAY’S SCRIPTURE: Thank You Jesus for willingly accepting the challenge presented to You by the Father, for it opened the door for us to seek forgiveness of our sin – the main obstacle that will keep us out of heaven. It seems like, as time goes on, modern churches seem to search for and enact what appears to be easier and more acceptable ways for the current generation to be excused from their blatant sin. But Lord, I believe that You are still God and will still refuse to allow sin to enter Your holy place. Sin is still disobedience to the laws and statutes outlined in Your Word. That doesn’t change to fit the many changes that the evil one brings into our world. There is still just one way for mankind to bridge that gap between earth and heaven. You shed Your blood, Lord Jesus, so that those who seek your forgiveness and accept You as Lord and Savior of their lives, will be washed by that shed blood and, through that cleansing, be accepted into heaven. Please continue to work in the hearts of those who have not sought forgiveness of sin. May all those who read this devotional today be found pure and clean before our holy God, so that we may rejoice together at Your feet for all eternity. AMEN!

When God Calls

On 2024-04-23 By Ed AlgreenIn A Lamp unto My Path, Adoration, Answered Prayer, Appreciation, Awesome God, Beyond Description, Blessing, Celebrate God, Needs, Praise, Praise-worthy, Recognize God, WorshipLeave a comment

DATE POSTED: Tuesday, April 23, 2024, and I was blessed to be at Advent Christian Village, Dowling Park, FL when God inspired me to prepare this devotional. My Footnote will tell you how to find, read or listen to any and all episodes that I have shared over the years.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE FROM THE Easy-to-Read Version (ERV) IS FOUND IN Isaiah 48:12-13

THE BIBLE TEXT IS: “Jacob, listen to me! Israel, I called you to be my people. So listen to me!
I am the Beginning, and I am the End. I made the earth with my own hands. My right hand made the sky. And if I call them, they will come to stand before me.

APPLICATION OF THE WORD: For those who have accepted Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, I believe the Bible is clear in identifying us as ‘children of God’. As such, I believe that God calls out to us in much the same way as He did to Israel. In fact, so much so that I believe the Holy Spirit implored me to substitute a few words to help receive a personal message from God today, and I implore you to do the same. Here’s my example for verse 12: ‘Ed, listen to me! Village Church, I called you to be my people. So listen to me….’. Friends, I’m afraid that way too often we read God’s Word as a history, or story book, and therefore lose touch with the impact that God intended for us through the challenges He chose to share with us. I am in full agreement that these verses were intended for the Israelites, but when God’s book was given to us for teaching, edification, and drawing unto, or closer to our Maker, then I try to look deeply into the message of each verse as to how it might also apply to me. I believe these are two of those verses, for we seem to have lost sight of who God truly is. Yes, He is the great Healer, but He’s not available to us as our ‘Genie’ to call on when every little illness or serious disease comes upon us. But He is One that we develop a personal relationship with and who gives comfort for every little ‘bump’ in our road. He’s One who anticipates our joy’s and thanksgiving when we recognize who helped us get over those bumps. Remember, even while we were sinners without any hope of heaven, Jesus, God’s only Son, freely died a very cruel death so that we who accept Him as Lord, might seek forgiveness of our sin, through Jesus, and live eternally in Heaven with Him, His Father and the Holy Spirit. So of course I am convinced that God was here before all time began, and He will be here until the end of all time, just as He confirmed through His Son in Revelation 22.13 when the intent of these same words were once again given to remind us of His supernatural power and His mighty omnipresence. So dear friends, I pray that you will be reminded that we not only serve One who is better than any friend; more understanding than any teacher/preacher we ever had; more knowledgeable and more of a Healer than the best doctor we ever paid; and more loving and caring than any other relationship ever before developed, but He is also One who always was, and always will be, King, Lord and Master of our lives and this universe. He alone is worthy of our honor, praise and thanksgiving, dear child of God! Do you know Him and have accepted Him as Lord of your life? At the point of your death, or His unannounced return, opportunities to accept Him will end. Please consider no further delays, listen for His call and accept Him as your Lord and Savior today, won’t you? In my Footnote, I have provided Biblical tips on how you might do this, but also know that a local Bible teaching pastor or myself would be happy to introduce you to our Lord as well.

PRAYER BECAUSE OF THE IMPACT OF TODAY’S SCRIPTURE: Precious Lord, thank You for drawing us to Yourself and for all that You have promised to us as children of the most high God! Please soften the heart of those who will happen across this devotional today, and even those who receive it every time I post another episode. May this be the day that they stop attributing Your voice to ‘hearing things’; ‘coincidences’; ‘pie in the sky’; or ‘happen-chance’ and may they know without a doubt that they are being summoned by the Master to ready their soul for eternity, regardless of their age or circumstances. AMEN!

Since We Have Such an Awesome God, Let us…

On 2024-04-20 By Ed AlgreenIn A Lamp unto My Path, Adoration, Answered Prayer, Appreciation, Awesome God, Beyond Description, Blessing, Celebrate God, Needs, Praise, Praise-worthy, Recognize God, WorshipLeave a comment

DATE POSTED: Saturday, April 20, 2024, and I was blessed to be at Advent Christian Village, Dowling Park, FL when God inspired me to prepare this devotional. My Footnote will tell you how to find, read or listen to any and all episodes that I have shared over the years.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE FROM THE New Century Version (NCV) IS FOUND IN Hebrews 10:22-25

THE BIBLE TEXT IS: let us come near to God with a sincere heart and a sure faith, because we have been made free from a guilty conscience, and our bodies have been washed with pure water. Let us hold firmly to the hope that we have confessed, because we can trust God to do what he promised. Let us think about each other and help each other to show love and do good deeds.
You should not stay away from the church meetings, as some are doing, but you should meet together and encourage each other. Do this even more as you see the day coming.

APPLICATION OF THE WORD: Although a great portion of the Bible is dedicated to leading the unsaved to Jesus Christ, the writer of Hebrews wanted Christians to recognize that there are some unique and awesome responsibilities for the child of God also. Please bear in mind that God’s kingdom may not be made up of workers in the church, or those trying to earn their salvation, because in our Scripture today I believe it is clear that it is a much more narrow path – one where individuals are saved by grace, and by the sacrificed blood of Jesus Christ. But we are taught that for these believers, there are some awesome things we can do to help others find their way, and see clearly what it means to be an individual saved by grace, and by living in the constant eye of our Heavenly Father. Let us meditate on the teachings of Jesus through His servant who penned the words of our Scripture today:
=> Let us come near to God in confidence (vs 22) – be reminded that children are always at ease with their dad, because the love between them is evident and runs deep. Our Heavenly Father is no different, in fact He reinforces this through a deep love filled with forgiveness and grace. So because of your deep relationship with Him, it is quite normal that you would approach His throne with confidence, admiration, and open communication. When He says in His Word that you have been forgiven, then you can approach His throne free of guilt about your sin. They are washed away by His precious blood that Jesus shed at Calvary. So never look back on that!
=> Let us hold firm to what God has promised (Vs 23) – God is incapable of lying, so we have no need of trying to make Him out to be a liar. He will do what He said, and He will provide what He promised. We can make that a part of our DNA to never doubt what He said. This makes approaching His throne a joy rather than torture. This encourages us to approach God’s throne instead of doubting or being afraid to do so. He’s our God, our Savior and Lord. His ways are far greater than ours, so we have no reason to think He will respond like man would. Let’s hold fast to that confident hope!
=> Let us help each other attain love and good works (vs 24) – some employers offer bonus points to employees who excel in selling their business lines. Extra bonus points are earned when the whole team achieves their goals. In other words, it pays to achieve your own goal, but it pays even more when you help the whole team achieve their collective goals. In Christianity, I don’t believe we could achieve ultimate joy and happiness in the Lord if our co-laborer at church is failing, due to an inconsistent lifestyle or commitment to the Lord. This doesn’t have to happen at church, but wouldn’t it be praiseworthy if, when we meet with the Lord each evening we could reflect back on at least one person whose life we touched in a positive and encouraging way for the Lord? At church, instead of looking around at the new dresses or jeans with holes, what if we target the believers who need a hand up through encouragement, prayer, financial need, etc? Which ministry effort do you suppose they will choose to give God glory for that day?
=> Let us be consistent in attending church meetings (Vs 25) – a physiologist was interviewed recently about a poll that showed where active Christians had fewer mental issues. She acknowledged that this was a proven statistic. Likewise, she said that as church attendance diminish, mental issues are shown to be on the rise. She acknowledged that those who are unconcerned about God and/or the church, seem more prone to feel alone, digected, and that no one cares about them. While the opposite has overwhelmingly proven true. Let’s be more committed to worshipping together with God’s people – not just for our good, but also for the part we might play in encouraging others.
‘Do this even more as you see the day coming’ says the Word of God. ‘The Day’ refers to the return of Jesus Christ to take His bride with Him to be with the Father. We can see the signs, dear friends. Let’s be on full, alert and in perfect form for that awesome day!

PRAYER BECAUSE OF THE IMPACT OF TODAY’S SCRIPTURE: Lord, You are so good to us! And although I am ever so thankful that You called me to Yourself, I still have many family and friends that came to mind as the Holy Spirit dealt with me in meditating on this Scripture. People still need a Savior, and how will they know about You if your children don’t speak up about the personal and awesome relationship we have with You. Please Lord, open our hearts to acknowledge You as Lord before those that we come into contact with. Also Lord, please continue to deal in the lives of every reader today about regularly meeting with other believers to worship, pray, study Your Word, and encourage one another just as You have been such an encourager to us. Oh Lord, may we all find You, acknowledge You as Lord, and worship You in a spirit of holiness, in recognition of Your very nature. AMEN!

Don’t you fear God?

On 2024-04-152024-04-15 By Ed AlgreenIn A Lamp unto My Path, Adoration, Answered Prayer, Appreciation, Awesome God, Beyond Description, Blessing, Celebrate God, Needs, Praise, Praise-worthy, Recognize God, WorshipLeave a comment

DATE POSTED: Monday, April 15, 2024, and I was blessed to be at Advent Christian Village, Dowling Park, FL when God inspired me to prepare this devotional. My Footnote will tell you how to find, read or listen to any and all episodes that I have shared over the years.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE FROM THE Good News Translation (GNT) IS FOUND IN Luke 23:39-42

THE BIBLE TEXT IS: One of the criminals hanging there hurled insults at him: “Aren’t you the Messiah? Save yourself and us!”
The other one, however, rebuked him, saying, “Don’t you fear God? You received the same sentence he did. Ours, however, is only right, because we are getting what we deserve for what we did; but he has done no wrong.” And he said to Jesus, “Remember me, Jesus, when you come as King!”

APPLICATION OF THE WORD: What if the only thing you remember from your weekend church service were the words spoken by the thief on the cross ‘Don’t you fear God’? How do you suppose that might impact you this week? Although most of us are not criminals ordered by earthly courts to die, many might be in the same position as the thief on the cross who hurled insults at Jesus. I know, you are quickly responding that I shouldn’t insult you like that, in assuming that you would be so evil as to even think of cursing God or hurling insults at His Son. But I feel like my responsibility today is to remind us that every time we turn a deaf, or obstinate ear to the Holy Spirit when He tugs at our heart’s door and challenges us on things that may offend Jesus, or are in direct conflict to His Word, we may be acting more like the thief in question, than the Savior who responded to him. Since it is highly unlikely that you or I might find ourselves on a cross next to Jesus this week, I believe the following might tend to serve the same purpose in getting your attention:
1. To meet with Jesus at the end of any day and say to him that reading His Word that day was not a priority for you. I know, your excuse was more of not having enough time, rather than a matter of priority. Explain the difference, please? Aren’t you insulting God by giving lesser priority to spending time with Him than you would at the coffee shop or in reading the local news for the day?
2. Meeting with others to worship, adore, and listen to the voice of God through His messenger as he preaches the Word of God. No, your time with God while fishing, hunting or hanging out with the guys/girls does not qualify, for God wants us to meet with others so that we might encourage them, allow them to encourage and uplift us, and to learn from them. He likens that to a time when iron sharpens iron – something that can’t be done virtually or alone. Imagine overhearing someone say to God that they were counting on getting with you at church to ask questions or receive encouragement, but you didn’t show up? And because it wasn’t a priority for you, they won’t return?
3. We deserve to die, much like the two thieves hanging on each side of Jesus at Golgotha. But each day,for the unsaved, you have the choice of establishing, or changing your stance on eternity. Friends, which one of the thieves did you imitate yesterday? By the end of the day, did you determine in your heart to ask Jesus to please remember you in His kingdom, or were you just as determined to hurl insults at Jesus and curse Him for His sacrifice on the cross so that you might be set free from sin and Hell? Each day we will determine in ourselves, if Jesus came today to collect His church, will we be a part of the saints that Jesus takes with Him, or settle for the pit of Hell with Satan and his demons. Our decision on what we did with Christ up to that point in time will determine our eternal destination. Acceptance of Jesus as Savior prior to that moment will give us the right to be taken up with the saints to be with the Father, Son and Holy Spirit forever. Without that, you have agreed to remain with Satan and his promise of eternal damnation. The choice is yours today, my friend, so don’t delay, Jesus’ return is closer today than it has ever been before.

PRAYER BECAUSE OF THE IMPACT OF TODAY’S SCRIPTURE: Should You return this very moment, I am convinced Lord, that You will still find many who replicate the lives of the two thieves mentioned in today’s Scripture. However, I praise You, Lord, for I am convinced that you will also find many who are ‘In Christ’, for they have accepted You, have an intimate, daily, active, and personal relationship with You, and are standing ready and waiting for Your return. They stand in fear and respect of all You have shared in Your Word, and because they have accepted that and asked for forgiveness of their sin, they stand ready to welcome Your return with open arms. Please Lord, once again today, please touch the hearts and lives of all those we know, and draw them to Yourself. Convict them of their sin and soften their hearts to reach out to You for eternal life, for we want to see them in glory worshipping you when we are blessed to arrive on the scene ourselves. You are holy, righteous and loving, and because we are not, we beg You to continue Your work in us until the day You call us home to Heaven. AMEN!

Nuggets From God's Word

Tag: Savior