Daily Devotionals
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06/09/2023 Mark 1 v 35-45; 1 Cor 3 v 1-23; Ps 75 v 1-10; Jos 8 v 1 - 9 v 27
God is willing and able
41 Moved with compassion, Jesus reached out with His hand and touched him, and said to him, “I am willing; be cleansed.” (Mark 1 v 41)
Jesus, the perfect example
Compassion = sympathetic pity and concern for the sufferings or misfortunes of others.
Oxford dictionary
Are we able to show compassion where required and reach out to others in need of help or are we so caught up in our theology, believing that we are either chosen and some other people are not, or that we are so blessed, because of our good works, while others are in the situation they find themselves in due to their own decisions?
Everyone needs compassion and everyone needs a Saviour. God is willing (to equip you) and able to give you the grace required for your calling.
We are able if we are willing
The only thing standing between us and the ability to live a spirit-filled life is our fallen flesh and its earthly desires, of which pride is probably our biggest downfall. (1 Cor 3 v 2)
God warns us not to boast (Ps 75 v 4) for it is He who exalts the righteous and pours out His wrath on the wicked.
Jesus is the foundation that we build our faith on (1 Cor 3 v 11) and no other foundation can be laid that will stand the test of time. Remember, that whether we plant a seed or water that seed, God causes the growth and therefore we should not boast about any of our efforts, for we are mere men, fellow workers in God’s Kingdom.
God was willing to become a man and also able to do so.
Can you imagine any other religion’s “deity” being willing and able to “de-throne” themselves in order to make amends on our behalf.
The God of the Universe, Creator of the living, the Lord Jesus, calls on you today and offers hope (while still in the flesh, facing trials and tribulations) and also an eternity with Him, when you transition from this life to the next. The question is this.
Will you accept Him as Lord of your life, the King that reigns above every earthly government and follow His commandments?
The choice is yours and you are able to respond as long as you are willing.
Look in the mirror and you will see a flawed man…. a broken man…. a sick man…. in need of redemption, in need of a Saviour and the many ways that seem right unto you will ultimately only lead to death and destruction. There is another way though, but you would have to deny yourself, then turn your back on the world and the things thereof and finally put this earthly vessel to death. Then and only then will you be able to pick your cross and follow Him, for His yoke is easy and His burden is light.
Scripture quotations taken from the NASB, Life Application Study Bible, unless stated otherwise. Copyright by “The Lockman Foundation”
04/09/2023 Mark 1 v 21-34; 1 Cor 2 v 1-16; Ps 74 v 1 - 23; Jos 6 v 1 - 7 v 26
Teaching with real Authority
22 The people were amazed at his teaching, for he taught with real authority—quite unlike the teachers of religious law. (Mark 1 v 22) [NLT]
27 Amazement gripped the audience, and they began to discuss what had happened. “What sort of new teaching is this?” they asked excitedly. “It has such authority! Even evil spirits obey his orders!” (vers 27) [NLT]
Surely Jesus didn’t teach anything other than the Scriptures?
Have you ever visited another church service or listened to a sermon online, realizing that everything the pastor said was spirit filled and it aligned perfectly with Scripture? We have to keep in mind that the people were so indoctrinated by the Scribes and the Pharisees, and their interpretations of the law, that anything else was a breath of fresh air.
Jesus, teaching with (real) authority, didn’t contradict the Scriptures, but taught the true meaning of the law and the prophets, which was fulfilled in Him and now He had the authority to forgive sins, heal the sick and cast out demons.
Wisdom of men vs Power of God
Paul was also teaching with authority, filled by the Spirit, proclaiming that everything he said was through reliance on God’s power and not his own wisdom. (1 Cor 2 v 1- 5)
Do we rely on our own intellect when preaching the Good News and the gospel of the Kingdom or do we trust that the Lord will give us the words to say, at the right time? How many of us, who have studied the Scriptures and perhaps attended Seminary, fall back on what we were taught by men and their interpretation or perception of the truth, rather than seeking God’s wisdom and waiting on His instruction…?
Spirit of the world vs God’s Spirit
Have you received God’s Spirit, through the second birth, i.e. have you been born again or do you still follow the spirit of this age?
We cannot know the things of God’s kingdom if we remain attached to this world. You and I will never be able to live a life dedicated to Jesus, if we continue to live according to worldly standards.
How will we ever attain the mind of Christ (vers 16), if we cannot understand the thing of God and how His kingdom functions?
My prayer for today is that you will ask God to reveal Himself to you through His Word, inspired by the Holy Spirit. God is true to Himself and cannot lie. He will answer your prayer if you are sincere of heart, seeking His forgiveness.
Scripture quotations taken from the NASB, Life Application Study Bible, unless stated otherwise. Copyright by “The Lockman Foundation”
23/08/2023 Mark 1 v 9-20; 1 Cor 1 v 18-31; Ps 73 v 1-28; Jos 3 v 1 to 5 v 15
Only the foolish will believe
18 For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. 19 For it is written:
“I will destroy the wisdom of the wise;
the intelligence of the intelligent I will frustrate.”
20 Where is the wise person? Where is the teacher of the law? Where is the philosopher of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world? 21 For since in the wisdom of God the world through its wisdom did not know him, God was pleased through the foolishness of what was preached to save those who believe. 22 Jews demand signs and Greeks look for wisdom, 23 but we preach Christ crucified: a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles, 24 but to those whom God has called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God. 25 For the foolishness of God is wiser than human wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than human strength.
26 Brothers and sisters, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth. 27 But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. 28 God chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, 29 so that no one may boast before him. 30 It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption. 31 Therefore, as it is written: “Let the one who boasts boast in the Lord.” (1 Cor 1 v 18 – 31) [NIV]
So, who are the “foolish”?
It’s simple. Only those who believe in Christ crucified: “a Stumbling block to the Jews and foolishness to the Gentiles.” (vers 23)
It is also the ones who gave up everything to follow Jesus (Mark 1 v 16 – 20).
Believers in Christ are often ridiculed for their belief in this “fairy tale” religion and mocked for their apparent lack of reason, assuming that they (the enlightened ones), have mastered all there is to know in life about every subject matter, yet the ones calling us foolish, have not taken the time to apply their wisdom and knowledge to research the validity and authenticity of our “foolish” belief, or could it simply be that “14 … a natural person does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; and he cannot understand them, because they are spiritually discerned.” (1 Cor 2 v 14)
Who are the wise?
This too, is clear. The teacher of the law and the philosopher (vers 20), saying that only the foolish will believe.
We are often asked how we can trust in a source that was written by men, but it is never considered that many have tried to discredit and disprove our beliefs over the course of millennia and still people are coming to faith in Jesus.
There must be something about our faith that causes more and more people to accept the death (and resurrection) of Christ as the only atonement for their sins?
Could it be that all their earthly knowledge and doctor’s degrees cannot fill the void that a life without God offers?
Who are the wicked?
Those who think that God is only a concept and live their life according to their own desires, also saying that only the foolish will believe. They question and often reject the very existence of God and takes no responsibility for their actions. There are also those who might believe in God as a distant, impersonal figure that doesn’t have the ability to know our very next thought or action. (Ps 73 v 11)
This is an extremely dangerous position to hold and there is only one outcome for people who think that the God of the universe will not judge them at the appropriate time.
We as believers, should never forget where we come from and how God saved us from certain demise. Therefore, “let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord.” (vers 31)
Scripture quotations taken from the NASB, Life Application Study Bible, unless stated otherwise. Copyright by “The Lockman Foundation”
21/08/2023 Jos 1 v 1 - 2 v 24
Be strong and courageous
6 “Be strong and courageous,, for you are the one who will lead these people to possess all the land I swore to their ancestors I would give them. 7 Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the instructions Moses gave you. Do not deviate from them, turning either to the right or to the left. Then you will be successful in everything you do. 8 Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do. 9 This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” (vers 6-9) [NLT]
Be strong and very courageous
Have you ever had to prepare for something that caused your bones to shiver? One can easily become strong by following a vigorous training program combined with the correct diet, but it takes more than physical strength to have the courage to take on an army. We often confuse the two and in the above passage God mentions this twice, while emphasizing just how courageous Joshua should be.
Obey all instructions
Joshua was instructed to obey the Lord’s commandments, without deviating from them. Then, and then only would he take possession of the promised land. Moses knew how rebellious the Israelites were and that it would take a special leader to take charge of this mammoth task. Joshua had the reassurance that he would be victorious and that God would never fail, nor forsake him (Deut 31 v 8; Jos 1 v 5).
Do not be afraid
Can you imagine the responsibility Joshua had to take on his shoulders? We find it hard sometimes just to approach our managers in the work place or even a large corporate that could become a potential client. Here, Joshua would take over a city and even though it was promised to his predecessor, surely he had to ask himself whether he was up to the task… This doesn’t seem to be the case as he took charge and immediately instructed those who were to follow him, regarding the plans to invade the city.
Study the Word and meditate on it
Reading God’s Word and following His instructions is not an instant recipe to worldly success, nor is it a gateway to salvation. If that were the case, everyone would become a Christian. We are called to study the Word and meditate on it yes, but there should be a change of heart and as a result of this, we would want to follow God’s instructions and obey His commandments.
It takes courage to trust in the Lord, but God never disappoints and therefore we can take heed and know that He will never leave, or fail nor forsake us, as long as we put our faith in Jesus and no longer rely on our own bodily strength and intellect, but purely on His provision.
Scripture quotations taken from the NASB, Life Application Study Bible, unless stated otherwise. Copyright by “The Lockman Foundation”
20/07/2023 Elevating Truth's future
Greetings
It didn’t take too long for the server to misbehave, causing the site to crash. It has taken months to try and resolve and finally, after moving the site to yet another provider, we were able to revive it and everything seems stable at the moment.
Lord willing, we will resume the daily devotionals soon and will keep you up to date regarding this.
My prayer is that you will listen to the Spirit of God and seek Him in everything you do. Remember, above all in your daily walk with the Lord, that you are an image bearer of God and that everything you do is either for His glory or your shame.
Let’s test ourselves to see whether we are in the faith and ask the Lord to illuminate those areas in our lives that do not reflect His image.
Until next time.
May the Lord keep you!
JO
07/08/2022 Update regarding weekly devotionals
Dear brothers and sisters in Christ
Unfortunately, due to unforeseen events, our virtual server had to be moved to another provider, which took place last weekend and for that reason I was not able to post anything.
Having also started working for a new company the weekly devotionals have been “left behind” for the time being and hopefully I will be able to resume these shortly.
Please write to us and share your testimonies of faith or post your request for prayer should you wish for us to bring you before the Lord and petition on your behalf in prayer.
Times are uncertain and our only hope is to put our trust in the Lord Jesus. For many this seems like a fairy tale, but for those living each and every moment in absolute dependence, knowing that God provides in their needs, this is an unmistakable reality.
Blessings, in Jesus
JO
16/07/2022 Update regarding daily devotionals
Change to weekly devotionals
I trust that you have been blessed through the content on this website and as much as I would like to spend more time writing articles and/or devotionals on a daily basis, I have realized that this is not possible at the moment.
Due to time constraints, it has just become impossible to publish content during the week and therefore I have decided to write weekly devotionals (for a start) and hopefully soon be able to also publish more of the other content on the site.
My devotional time with the Lord during the working week is still and should always be my main priority as we can get carried away very quickly with all our worldly responsibilities. The plan is to start these weekly devotionals on the weekend of 30 July, which is only a fortnight away.
You might have noticed that I have started at the beginning, slowly working our way through the Scriptures and seeking the Lord’s guidance in what I should write. Each day contains four (4) passages and I would like to combine these passages in a single devotional for the week.
May the Lord bless you and keep you!
Sincerely
JO
01/05/2022 He who delivers the needy
He who delivers the needy
“He rescues the poor who call to him, and those who are needy and neglected. He has pity on the weak and poor; he saves the lives of those in need. He rescues them from oppression and violence; their lives are precious to him.” (vers 12-14) [GNT]
Who is he?
Although this might refer to an earthly king, it is also a type of, and reflects to God. He who delivers the needy, He who has compassion and He who saves us from certain death. He alone works wonders and make all things work together for good.
He will deliver
An earthly king might rescue us from the hands of an oppressor, but God is the only One who is able to deliver us from evil and certain devastation. After all, He has already overcome and stands victorious, even though we might not yet see this when looking at the current state of the world as we know it.
He will have compassion
The attributes ascribed to God, cannot even begin to describe the nature of His character. What we know as “the fruit of the Spirit” is the very essence of His nature. The bible says that “God is love” and a loving God, also shows compassion to those who are poor, whether in material things or in spirit, He will comfort you in your times of need.
He will save…
Have you ever been in a situation where you were literally drowning, while being thrown a life jacket, and thinking – is that the best you can do? I am DROWNING! – and then realising, that you have to grab onto it. Is it any different with God?
Can He force His salvation on you? Absolutely NOT! He who delivers the needy, is a loving and sincere God. He reaches out to you on many occasions and you might see how He is working over time to save you from your destructive nature, but it is (still) up to you to allow Him to pull you from the depths of the raging waters.
Take a hold of His hand, from His outstretched arm, and never let go, for He will neither leave you, nor forsake you!
Scripture quotations taken from the NASB, Life Application Study Bible, unless stated otherwise. Copyright by “The Lockman Foundation”
Thought for the day The cost of freedom
The cost of freedom
“So Jesus was saying to the Jews who had believed Him, “If you abide in My word [continually obeying My teachings and living in accordance with them, then] you are truly My disciples. 32 And you will know the truth [regarding salvation], and the truth will set you free [from the penalty of sin].” (John 8 v 31-32) [AMP]
While celebrating freedom day (in South Africa), we should not forget the price Jesus has paid to set us free from the penalty of sin, under which we all stand guilty, for we all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God (Rom 3 v 23).
The true cost of freedom
Freedom always comes at a cost, and in many cases the cost can simply not be afforded. We were so indebted due to our rebellion and disobedience that we would never be able to fellowship with God the way Adam and Eve did, way back in the beginning.
Unless God intervened the way He did, by taking on human form, and accepting the condemnation of the people, I wouldn’t be able to sit here and write this journal. Fully man, yet fully God, Jesus brought a message and taught a truth, unlike any other. His teachings, revolutionary at that time, taught us that everyone could be free, whether bondservant or master, teacher or student…
Knowing the truth regarding this freedom was atainable by all people who were willing to obey the Lord’s teachings and prepared to follow Him, whether literally during His 3 1/2 year tenour, or through obedience to His teachings in the midst of our hectic lifestyle of the 21st century.
Absolute freedom
The true cost of freedom is not something that can always be measured. Consider how Jesus was punished for proclaiming to be the Son of God, offering forgiveness of sins, to those who accepted His saving grace. Was it only the number of lashes that He received from the Roman guard, being traded for Barabas, or perhaps even the 30 pieces of silver Judas received for giving up Jesus?
Regardless how we look at it, Jesus offered His life willingly, so “that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life.” (John 3 v 15) [KJV]
He (Jesus) was still free to choose and even asked the Father, that if it were possible, He would let the cup pass from Him. (Mat 26 v 39) [paraphrase]
True freedom can only be found in the notion that a personal God, stepped in, knowing that we couldn’t reconcile with Him, through our own devices, due to our fallen condition and paid a price that all the money this world can print, couldn’t afford.
Through this selfless act, we can be free from the bondage of sin and all we need to do is accept His atoning death and resurrection. Are you willing to be set free from your past today? Come to the cross for “for God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” (John 3 v 16) [NKJ].
Scripture quotations taken from the NASB, Life Application Study Bible, unless stated otherwise. Copyright by “The Lockman Foundation”
23/04/2022 Mark 1 v 1-8; 1 Cor 1 v 1-17
The true meaning of God’s message
“Behold I send My messenger ahead of You, who will prepare Your way; The voice of one crying in the wilderness, make ready the way of the Lord, make His paths straight.” (Mark 1 v 2-3)
Do we really take the time to stand still and consider the true meaning of God’s message and the actual impact that Jesus had on the world during His time on earth? It was revolutionary!
He didn’t just come to simply die for our sins like some cartoon hero, but to overthrow the religious establishment of the time and with that empower people to accept His saving grace through His death on the cross.
John prepared the way and eventually paid a hefty price, but not before reaching many who accepted God’s grace and forgiveness for their sins.
Preaching a baptism of repentance
“John the baptist appeared in the wilderness preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins.” (Mark1 v 4)
It is clear that religion has taught us one thing, maybe two… we are not inherently good, simply making wrong choices. Can you explain how a 2 year old can understand when you ask her if it was she who ate the candy, and then she shakes her head wildly, abolutely denying it, while holding the candy behind her back? We are fine as long as our good deeds outweigh our bad actions. Ever thought who the judge of these good deeds and bad actions would be? Who sets the standard and who determines the penalty?
The true meaning of God’s message lies in the undesputed fact, that we are born in sin, from the fall of man, when they disobeyed God’s instruction.
Agree to disagree?
“Now I exhort you brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you all agree and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be made complete in the same mind and in the same judgment.” (1 Cor 1 v10)
There is only one way to reconcile with Him and this we can all agree upon, if you believe that you are a wretched, fallen man, deserving death and yet have been forgiven. All that is required, is to acknowledge this fact, repent of your wrongdoing, take up your cross and follow Him.
There are many other things we can agree to disagree about, but the above is not negotiable. The things spoken of that form the basis of our faith, cannot be reasoned away through fancy words and clever speech. We can then just as well believe that we have been forgiven and all that we have to do is live a good life and become a better person.
Christ and the cross
“For Christ did not send me to baptize, but to preach the gospel, not in cleverness of speech, so that the cross of Christ would not be made void.” (1 Cor 1 v 17)
The cross is the crux and the true meaning of God’s message is clear. We have sinned against the God of the universe, the Creator and sustainer of the living, who made us in His image, but because God is love, He gave us a mediator and paid the ultimate price, something we could never afford ourselves.
Good deeds cannot save us from the wrath of a loving God. Today you have an opportunity to make right with God. Will you use it and give up everything this life has to offer and choose Christ?
Scripture quotations taken from the NASB, Life Application Study Bible, unless stated otherwise. Copyright by “The Lockman Foundation”
17/04/2022 Ps 71 v1-24; Deut 33 v 1-34 v 12
Blessings in old age
“For you are my hope;
O Lord God, You are my confidence from my youth. By you I have been sustained from my birth;
You are He who took me from my mother’s womb;
My praise is continually of You.” (Ps 71 v 5-6)
If you are my age, we can still consider ourselves fairly young and more or less halfway through this earthly journey. Looking back over the years, I can see how the Lord has sustained me from my birth till this very day. May we continue to depend on His provision in all aspects of our lives so that when we reach that golden era, Lord willing, we can still say that He has provided in all our needs.
A life lived for God
“O God, You have taught me from my youth, And I still declare Your wondrous deeds.” (Ps71 v 17)
Let’s declare the works of the Lord today and every day to follow, so that we can truly say we lived for God. Whether you are a teenager, student, adult or elderly person, allow Him to teach you His ways, while you have today, for tomorrow might not come.
Do not wait, for we don’t know what the future holds. We might be blessed during our old age, should we reach seventy or even eighty years, or the Lord might come for you and me today or next week. The very reason that we have no idea when the line will be drawn, should urge us to seek God this very moment.
Blessing upon blessing
“Of Joseph he said,
‘Blessed of the Lord be his land, with the choice things of heaven, with the dew, and from the deep lying beneath, and with the choice yield of the sun, and with the choice produce of the months.
And with the best things of the ancient mountains, and with the choice things of the everlasting hills, and with the choice things of the earth and its fullness, and the favor of Him who dwelt in the bush.‘” Deut 33 v 13-16)
I am of the opinion that there aren’t any bigger blessings in old age, than good health, but even more than that, nothing can come close to a healthy spirit and a soul longing to meet the Lord. Have you lived completely? Has you life been a constant struggle due to material shortcomings perhaps? Has your body’s aches and pains gotten the better of you?
Do not be dismayed for the Lord knows every need you have. Some might prosper in this life in their finances, but remain poor in their spiritual journey, while those who fully seek the Lord, will enjoy His blessings in many other forms…
Entering the promised land
“Then the Lord said to him, ‘This is the land which I swore to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, saying… I will give it to your descendants’;
I have let you see it with your eyes, but you shall not go over there…‘” (Deur 34 v 4)
When we have reached that ripe age where it could be our time to depart this life and transition to the next, having enjoyed the blessings of our old age, surely we do not want the Lord to deny us entry into the promised land? Why wait until our eyes have dimmed and the hearing has declined and our brain is slowly starting to shrink, causing our minds to become disconnected from reality?
Choose the path leading to everlasting life while you are still young. Ask the Lord to open your spiritual eyes and ears and to give you the mind of Christ. Dedicate the latter part of your life to God and be prepared to work for His kingdom, which is not of this world.
May the Lord bless you and keep you and may this seed cause abundant growth in your life.
Scripture quotations taken from the NASB, Life Application Study Bible, unless stated otherwise. Copyright by “The Lockman Foundation”
16/10/2021 Rom 16 v 1-27
Innocent as a dove
“…but I want you to be wise in what is good and innocent in what is evil.” (vers 19)
For as long as I can remember, it has always been a battle between good and evil.
The problem is that the world has taught us that just being good is enough. Enough for what? Enough to live a good life, because everything comes to a halt when you die and you need to leave a legacy behind, which shows everyone, just what a good person you were…
No one is good
On the contrary, the bible teaches us that NO ONE is good, not one – not a single person – and that we all fall short and seek darkness rather than light. Does this mean that we cannot discern what is good, right and acceptable in the Lord’s sight? Of course not! We are instructed to apply wisdom and discern every spirit to see whether it is from God.
What is the writer referring to then, when he says that we ought to be “wise in what is good“?
Once we realise that we are merely sinners and that our life (outside of Christ) is testimony to that which is evil, then and only then, can we discern between good and evil.
Do not be deceived
“Now I urge you, brethren, keep your eye on those who cause dissensions and hindrances contrary to the teaching which you learned, and turn away from them. For such men are slaves, not of our Lord Christ but of their own appetites; and by their smooth and flattering speech they deceive the hearts of the unsuspecting.” (vers 17-18)
There are many wo claim to love the Lord and seek to minister to His people, yet they approach you with ulterior motives and a hidden agenda. Their actions often lead to divisiveness, causing the sheep to stumble. We are called to watch out for these people and turn away from them.
How are we to even identify these people, if we cannot discern between good and evil?
Be wise in your understanding
“I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as a dove.” (Mat 10 v 16) [NIV] [paraphrase]
This almost sounds like a contradiction, for we know that a snake can be borderline cunning, while a dove is seen as innocent and pure.
The Oxford definition for “shrewd” means to have or show sharp powers of judgement.
Therefore as a child of God, we should develop the skill to judge the words and actions of people with caution, without condemning the person. The only way we are able to do so, is by allowing the Holy Spirit to guide our thoughts and actions, ensuring that everything we think, say and do is calculated.
This will ensure that we stay within the Lord’s will, still being able to practice our own free will, but being content with offering up our own desires, in order for us to align with God’s perfect will.
Scripture quotations taken from the NASB, Life Application Study Bible, unless stated otherwise. Copyright by “The Lockman Foundation”
05/10/2021 Mat 28 v 16-20
Preaching the good news
“Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age” (vers 19-20)
For God so loved the world
The first question we should ask ourselves, is do we know the true meaning of preaching the good news or is the gospel presented in the bible only reserved for the “elect few”, either to teach or to receive?
Without letting this sound like a sermon, I believe it is important to understand that the good news is available for everyone to hear and respond to, “For God so [greatly] loved and dearly prized the WORLD, that He [even] gave His [One and] only begotten Son, so that whoever believes and trusts in Him [as Savior] shall not perish, but have eternal life.” (John 3 v 16) [AMP].
Does this mean that anyone can teach the word, preaching the good news?
Your answer to this question probably depends on your background and upbringing in the church or perhaps you were never church bound to begin with and believe, as I do, that the body (of Christ) should practice the gifts of the Spirit, which includes teaching, should you be called to do so.
An instruction from the Lord
There could be an argument that Jesus only instructed His disciples to go out and make disciples of all nations, through preaching the good news and baptizing these people in His name, but in vers 20 He says that they (His disciples), should teach others to “observe all that He has commanded them” [paraphrase].
I believe this includes sharing the gospel, which also includes the breaking of bread whenever we have fellowship. We are called to be the “light to the world” and the “salt of the earth” (Mat 5 v 13-16). As we know salt preserves goodness, while light prevents you from stumbling in the dark.
If only an elect few were privileged to teach and receive the good news, what hope is there for the rest of us? We serve a righteous, just and loving God, who gave part of Himself, in the form of His Son, who suffered at the hands of mankind, to offer penance for our sin and overcame death through His resurrection.
Therefore, preaching the good news should form part of our Christian walk if we are to observe everything the Lord has instructed. Don’t be ashamed of the gospel of Jesus Christ, for it is the Word of God and the only way to be reconciled with God.
This truth will set you free from your bondage to sin and if you read this and realise that you cannot continue on this path of self-destruction, do not harden your heart. Allow the Lord to renew your mind and save you from this perverse world.
Scripture quotations taken from the NASB, Life Application Study Bible, unless stated otherwise. Copyright by “The Lockman Foundation”
18/09/2021 Thought of the day
Asleep at the wheel
“You are to say, ‘His disciples came by night and stole Him away while we were asleep…‘” (Mat 28 v 13)
Are you willing to tell the truth about an event, having an accurate knowledge of what exactly transpired or can you be easily persuaded to adjust the truth, even if it reflects that you were “asleep at the wheel?”
To many people truth is a “relative” concept and tweaking the truth for the sake of a temporary “reward” wouldn’t bother them as much as it should, especially if you are a believer.
What’s the big deal? It’s just a “white lie”
Being caught asleep at the wheel is one thing, but to lie about the actual circumstances surrounding an event, is something that has become a daily occurrence in my experience.
One’s character is revealed through your actions. Think about it for a moment…
If you are willing to lie about something to cover up the truth, you have already committed a terrible sin in the Lord’s eyes.
The question one should then ask yourself, is why you would risk your reputation and agree to lie about the situation in return for something that lacks eternal value? Would you allow others in a position of authority to dictate what you should say, in order to further their agenda, as long as you can gain something?
It boils down to this
If you do not have self-respect, you will naturally disrespect others, but most importantly, you will not fear God. It is written that we should do unto others as we would have done unto ourselves [paraphrase] and the bible teaches us that we should love the Lord our God with our whole being, seeking first His kingdom.
If you do not believe in the God of the bible, who we believe is the Creator and Sustainer of the universe, then you probably wouldn’t be concerned about it too much. On the flip side, if you are a follower of Christ, we have a responsibility to fulfill, wherever we are, whether in public or at the work place and even there where we are not noticed.
It seems like a catch-22, doesn’t it?
On the one hand you shouldn’t be caught asleep at the wheel for each one has a responsibility toward those who have appointed us in a certain position, but we should also not use an excuse that will reflect our true nature and character for instant gratification.
Prayer
My prayer for you today is that you will be honest with yourself and others in every God-given situation, regardless of your worldview. Inevitably a time will come when you are faced with some difficult decisions that might affect the wellbeing of others and in order to make the right choice, you will have to reach a point where you consult the Lord and seek His guidance.
As a child of the living God, we should be alert and be sober, while listening to His still, small voice that speaks to our hearts. Consider Him in all things. Consider the cost and how your behaviour affects your testimony. We are often guilty of not being the greatest witnesses, but there is always the next opportunity. Ask the Lord to create in you a longing for the truth and He will reveal to you the treasures of Heaven. Amen!
Scripture quotations taken from the NASB, Life Application Study Bible, unless stated otherwise. Copyright by “The Lockman Foundation”
Image courtesy of LUMO project | https://www.freebibleimages.org
11/09/2021 Deut 32 v 1-52
About God and His people, through the eyes of Moses
About God
“The Rock! His work is perfect, For all His ways are just; A God of faithfulness and without injustice, Righteous and upright is He” (vers 4)
Moses ascribed to God the attributes of a perfect being and of this He is worthy.
There is no other living creature on this earth or under the sea or in the heavens, who can claim this.
Many religious figures, throughout history, whether kings or prophets, scribes or pharisees, leaders or politicians, who have walked this earth, could not uphold the laws of God, yet they expected others to do the almost impossible.
Through the eyes of Moses we learn about God and His people and how they strayed from His perfect will and ways continuously. Every time God struck them through the hands of their enemies, they returned to the Lord, although only for a short while, before wandering off to worship other gods again.
Because of God’s nature He always showed compassion and granted them grace, knowing they would fall short, each and every time. Nothing has changed and today we behave in exactly the same manner as the people of Israel did during those times.
About Israel
“They have acted corruptly towards Him, They are not His children, because of their defect; But are a perverse and crooked generation” (vers 5)
In my relatively short life, I have not seen a more crooked and perverse generation than this one.
I agree that nothing is new and that everything we see is a repetition of the past and that throughout history people have experienced the same issues and committed the same atrocities, but…
The degree of our moral decline, not only as a secular society, but also in the evangelical church, has reached a new level where nothing seems sacred anymore. Again, during the time of God’s people, whether in bondage and under rule of other nations, or free wandering through the wilderness, they rebelled against the Lord and participated in idol worship.
Through the eyes of Moses, we do not only read about their rebellious actions, but we are awakened to the indecent acts that they participated in. “They made Him (God) jealous with strange gods; With abominations they provoked Him to anger. They sacrificed to demons who were not God, to gods whom they have not known, new gods who came lately, whom their fathers did not dread” (vers 16 & 17).
Can the same be said about us? That “we are a nation lacking in counsel, and there is no understanding in us?” (vers 28) [paraphrased]. Have we gone so far astray that we can no longer see our wrongdoing and that we pronounce evil as good and good as evil?
Who is God to us?
Have we also broken faith with God, forsook Him and didn’t treat Him as holy in the midst of others?
Is God simply a convenience to us when we are in need of anything?
This kind of Pagan Christianity we live according to these days, is no different to how Israel worshipped God during the time of Moses. Seeking and following after other gods, because the One, True God, was not enough and as a result, they usually only called on the Lord after He dealt with them, like a father would respond to a child who misbehaves in disobedience.
We are no different and prefer to live our lives according to our thinking of what is right and wrong, instead of seeking the Lord’s will. There is a lesson to be learnt and the question remains this… Can we really be honest and say that we long after God and that we love Him above ALL other things, which He has created?
Photo by Matt Botsford on Unsplash
Scripture quotations taken from the NASB, Life Application Study Bible, unless stated otherwise. Copyright by “The Lockman Foundation”
08/09/2021 Psalm 70 v 1-5
Deliverance from affliction
“But I am afflicted and needy; Hasten to me, O God! You are my help and my deliverer.” (vers 5)
Are you still paying dearly for a decision that you made many years ago?
Do you feel “afflicted and needy”, seeking and praying for deliverance from the affliction you are experiencing?
God often seems occupied and His intervention delayed.
Is He obliged to come to our rescue? If He doesn’t interfere and allows us to practice our free will, why would He then intervene in order to change our situation?
Question upon question
Until now you have probably only been able to asked the Lord “Why?” and questioned your own faith all along. The time has come to be still and realise that God is who He says He is. He is the Great, I AM and able to deliver you from the hands of your enemies.
Is it a matter of having more faith or is it simply a case of handing over your fears and worries so God can go at work?
Deliverance from your affliction can only occur when you allow God to fight the battle on your behalf. If we constantly interfere and do things our way, or even worse, prescribe how He should go about doing what He knows best, we will continue to remain stuck in our dismal situation.
“Let go and let God”
Sounds like a cliché by now, right?
Deliverance from affliction is not a matter of God helping those who can help themselves, also something that won’t take us very far, seeing that we got ourselves in this mess in the first place.
There is hope though.
God can cause any situation to work for the good of those who love Him with their whole being, notwithstanding the fact that we tend to wander off course, every now and then.
If the above is a reflection of your current circumstances and you have reached a breaking point, where giving up and giving in seems like the only solution, not knowing what the outcome will be, this prayer is for you.
A prayer for deliverance
I pray that regardless of the reason and whether it was by your own doing, that the Lord may end your suffering today. If there are lessons to be learnt, then let the time be shortened, if you are willing to turn to God and walk in His ways. Let those who have ashamed, humiliated, dishonored and hurt you, be dealt with swiftly. We also ask that the Lord soften their hearts, in order for them to come to the knowledge of the truth.
Child of God – turn to the Lord today and seek forgiveness, where forgiveness is needed. Also forgive those who have transgressed against you and allow the Lord of all creation to renew your heart and heal your soul. Amen
Image by DanaTentis from Pixabay
Scripture quotations taken from the NASB, Life Application Study Bible, unless stated otherwise. Copyright by “The Lockman Foundation”
04/09/2021 Rom 15 v 14-33
Serving in Obedience
“Therefore in Christ Jesus I have found reason for boasting in things pertaining to God.” (ver 17)
Are you willing to serve God and others to fulfill in their spiritual and material needs, or do you simply make use of the escape phrase, “I’ll pray for you”, or even worse, “let me know if you don’t come right”…
Serving in obedience entails so much more than simply worshipping the Lord in church on Sundays or during mid-week fellowship with friends and families.
We are called to minister
We are all called to minister in one way or another through preaching the good news and this goes hand in hand with helping others with material things, where required and within our means.
The only way we can know how, when or where, is to listen to the Lord. Pray for guidance so that His Spirit can lead you in this area. We may have studied a course in theology, attained some knowledge of end-time prophecies and perhaps even served on a church council, but if we are not willing and prepared to serve others with the good news of the gospel, we have not achieved our goal.
How do we start then?
Are there people in your life that need assistance with anything? Is there a place where you can support the people with basic needs? I believe this is a good start and simply by showing love and compassion toward others in need, God will open doors and provide the means with which you can serve others.
Let us not be discouraged, for we are all able to give something of ourselves, whether it is time, sharing our skills or planting a seed, the Lord will use that, which might seem insignificant, to let His work through you, come to fruition.
Serving in obedience starts with consulting the Lord and we will often hear a response we do not like and therefore my prayer for you today is that God will soften your heart so that you will give yourself as a living sacrifice, willing to do His good work.
Let us boast in what Christ has done for us and not depend on our own strength and intellect. May His grace be sufficient for us, resulting in obedience in order to fulfill our purpose and that is to know God and make Him known.
Scripture quotations taken from the NASB, Life Application Study Bible, unless stated otherwise. Copyright by “The Lockman Foundation”
03/09/2021 Mat 28 v 1-10
Look unto Jesus
“He is not here… for He is risen… just as He said.” (vers 6)
Do you look unto Jesus as the risen Lord or is the above simply a myth, perhaps only something spiritual or figurative?
I am of the opinion that many “Christians” get stuck and even stumble at the foot of the cross. I do not intend to question their faith, but it seems that they only accept the death of Jesus and have a hard time to confess His bodily resurrection.
A two-fold faith
Confessing one’s sin and believing in the crucifixion of Jesus, as the only atonement and remedy for our sin, is the first step toward coming to faith.
As long as we do not accept that He physically rose from the dead, we continue to fall short, and as a result our whole world view is corrupted. If we cannot trust Jesus’ own words that He would rise on the third day, then we may just as well become agnostics who proclaim that we are not actually sure about anything and subsequently choose to simply worship a form of Godliness.
If we only look unto Jesus as our Saviour, because He died for our sin, and not as the risen Christ, we are really acknowledging that He didn’t actually overcome sin, neither was He victorious over death. This is a dangerous, devastating and destructive theology and many Christians are mislead through this teaching.
Jesus, King of kings and Lord of Lords
“With great fear and joy”, the woman ran to tell of the good news. Little did they know that they would run into Jesus and were so overwhelmed when they say Him that they fell at His feet and worshipped Him.
They knew who He was. This was also not the first time they kneeled at His feet and worshipped Him. To them, He was the Messiah and they believed His prophecy regarding His death and resurrection. I consider them to be amongst the blessed ones to have had the opportunity to see Jesus, face to face.
I pray that should you not have reached a point yet, where you accept the resurrection of Jesus as a crucial ingredient to be truly saved that God’s Spirit will speak to your heart today, for “If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” (Rom 10 v 9) [NIV]
Image courtesy of LUMO project | https://www.freebibleimages.org
Scripture quotations taken from the NASB, Life Application Study Bible, unless stated otherwise. Copyright by “The Lockman Foundation”
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