Let God’s Joy Surround You
“Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance.”
James 1: 2
Do you have pure joy in your life? I have been reminded of this scripture for the past year or so, as I have a dear friend who stands out in our church and is always bubbling over with the joy of the Lord. About two years ago he seemed to have everything together in his finances as his business was flourishing and everything was rosy for his future. However, almost as quickly as everything had increased, his business began to grow sour and his revenues began declining. Several members of the church counseled with him to help him in any way we could, but were not able to do much to help him get out of his dilemma. The result was that he lost much of his wealth and his business was basically lost. Through all of this trouble however, the joy of the Lord still shown through him and still does today. His faith has not wavered and the joy of God still shines from him for all to see. The Bible tells us in Psalm 16:11 “you will fill me with joy in your presence.” The presence of the Lord is still with him during his times of trouble as it was with him in his times of plenty. I believe this is what the presence of God can do in our lives when we have given our life over to Him. Even though we may still have troubles and trials in our life, His presence is still there with us. This is the situation that David was in throughout his life. He had troubles and trials and also had his good times, but the presence of God was always with him. I would encourage each of you that when you feel like your joy is beginning to wane, to get into the presence of God and He will restore you, and will fill you with joy and give you the strength to withstand your troubles.
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
My Daily Devotional
Our Hero
“The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and my salvation. He is my stronghold, my refuge and my savior—from violent men you save me.”
2nd Samuel 22:2-3
This past week there was a young soldier who received the highest medal awarded by our nation for giving his life to save others in his unit. This great hero was rewarded for his bravery and not thinking about himself but thinking about others instead. My father was killed in World War II and also was a hero as he considered others before himself. Even though we have men such as this young man and my father willing to sacrifice their lives for us and our protection, we need to remember that our real protection is not in mankind or in any government. Our real protection can only come through God. We can pray for our government, our president and our leaders, but we must ultimately put our trust in God as He is the only one that can protect us. We can all recall September 11, and the day the Twin Towers fell. There were also heroes there that day who died trying to save others as well, but they could not prevent this tragedy. Throughout the Bible there are recorded trials and tribulations that will befall all nations, however the real enemy that is attacking us is Satan himself, who is trying to destroy everyone. His attacks do not let up as they are relentless and occur each day of our lives. Our heroes cannot save us from these attacks, as they are helpless to defend and protect us. Our only hope to withstand these attacks is to turn to the only hero that can protect us, and that is Jesus Christ, who gave His life for all humanity. By His death on the cross for us, He made the way for us to have an eternal life and to be victorious over all our enemies.
“The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and my salvation. He is my stronghold, my refuge and my savior—from violent men you save me.”
2nd Samuel 22:2-3
This past week there was a young soldier who received the highest medal awarded by our nation for giving his life to save others in his unit. This great hero was rewarded for his bravery and not thinking about himself but thinking about others instead. My father was killed in World War II and also was a hero as he considered others before himself. Even though we have men such as this young man and my father willing to sacrifice their lives for us and our protection, we need to remember that our real protection is not in mankind or in any government. Our real protection can only come through God. We can pray for our government, our president and our leaders, but we must ultimately put our trust in God as He is the only one that can protect us. We can all recall September 11, and the day the Twin Towers fell. There were also heroes there that day who died trying to save others as well, but they could not prevent this tragedy. Throughout the Bible there are recorded trials and tribulations that will befall all nations, however the real enemy that is attacking us is Satan himself, who is trying to destroy everyone. His attacks do not let up as they are relentless and occur each day of our lives. Our heroes cannot save us from these attacks, as they are helpless to defend and protect us. Our only hope to withstand these attacks is to turn to the only hero that can protect us, and that is Jesus Christ, who gave His life for all humanity. By His death on the cross for us, He made the way for us to have an eternal life and to be victorious over all our enemies.
Monday, June 28, 2010
My Daily Devotional
Is There a Barnabas in You
“Joseph, a Levite from Cyprus, whom the apostles called Barnabas (which means Son of Encouragement), sold a field he owned and brought the money and put it at the apostles feet.”
Acts 4:36-37
Barnabas’s name appears in the scriptures thirty three times, and we see him as being a great man with an encouraging nature and one to help and support others around him. He must have had an amazing gift of encouragement to be recognized this much in the scriptures. However this first mention of his name is not as an encourager but rather as a giver, which leads me to believe that he was also a man with the spirit of God in him and a true Believer. He had made a gift that was freely given, and had laid this gift at the feet of the apostles, and was a gift that was intended to help people. This gift was made with no fanfare and publicity, but rather given to the apostles for distribution to those in need. I believe Barnabas demonstrates so many of the good qualities of what our lives should be like today. He was a devoted servant of God and used his gifts and talents to the fullest in whatever he did, and God blessed him. When we compare ourselves to a Barnabas do we see ourselves using our gifts and talents in the way he did. What would we lay at the feet of the apostles today? Is there something of a material nature you would sacrifice and lay at their feet, or would you give of your time and talents to do a good work for people in need? The heart of an encourager is a giver; someone who gives of themselves to benefit the well being of someone else. I believe we must all become like a Barnabas to have a real true relationship with Jesus, as when our thoughts are about others they are not focused on our own selfish wishes and desires. I would encourage each of you to search your hearts and become a giver and get your mind off yourself.
“Joseph, a Levite from Cyprus, whom the apostles called Barnabas (which means Son of Encouragement), sold a field he owned and brought the money and put it at the apostles feet.”
Acts 4:36-37
Barnabas’s name appears in the scriptures thirty three times, and we see him as being a great man with an encouraging nature and one to help and support others around him. He must have had an amazing gift of encouragement to be recognized this much in the scriptures. However this first mention of his name is not as an encourager but rather as a giver, which leads me to believe that he was also a man with the spirit of God in him and a true Believer. He had made a gift that was freely given, and had laid this gift at the feet of the apostles, and was a gift that was intended to help people. This gift was made with no fanfare and publicity, but rather given to the apostles for distribution to those in need. I believe Barnabas demonstrates so many of the good qualities of what our lives should be like today. He was a devoted servant of God and used his gifts and talents to the fullest in whatever he did, and God blessed him. When we compare ourselves to a Barnabas do we see ourselves using our gifts and talents in the way he did. What would we lay at the feet of the apostles today? Is there something of a material nature you would sacrifice and lay at their feet, or would you give of your time and talents to do a good work for people in need? The heart of an encourager is a giver; someone who gives of themselves to benefit the well being of someone else. I believe we must all become like a Barnabas to have a real true relationship with Jesus, as when our thoughts are about others they are not focused on our own selfish wishes and desires. I would encourage each of you to search your hearts and become a giver and get your mind off yourself.
Sunday, June 27, 2010
My Daily Devotional
Let God Lead You
“Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life and only a few find it.”
Matthew 7:13-14
The scripture above tells us that only a few will find the road and the gate that leads to an everlasting life with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Have you ever looked around you, for example, at your church service on Sunday morning and wonder who are the few that are going to make it through the small gate and find an eternal life? Is your pastor, youth leader, the person sitting next to you, your spouse and your children going to enter through the gate and be one of the few? According to this scripture the majority of the people in your church service will not enter the gate, but just who will be the few that do make it through. Will I be included in this select few and will my qualifications and credentials be sufficient to allow me to be included in this select group? After thinking about this for some time I now realize that the road that Jesus is referring to is one that is inside me, and as Jesus becomes more and more a part of my life, that my road is no longer the broad road of my own selfish nature, but that it is becoming a narrow, one lane road which is leading me to the gates of life. God is changing my ways and is directing my life and getting me off the broad road and onto the narrow road. God tells each of us to walk the straight and narrow path, and I would encourage all of you to look at your own life and see which road you are traveling on. It is not too late to get on the right road that leads to life. “And a highway will be there; it will be called the Way of Holiness. The unclean will not journey on it; it will be for those who walk in that way.” Isaiah 35:8.
“Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life and only a few find it.”
Matthew 7:13-14
The scripture above tells us that only a few will find the road and the gate that leads to an everlasting life with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Have you ever looked around you, for example, at your church service on Sunday morning and wonder who are the few that are going to make it through the small gate and find an eternal life? Is your pastor, youth leader, the person sitting next to you, your spouse and your children going to enter through the gate and be one of the few? According to this scripture the majority of the people in your church service will not enter the gate, but just who will be the few that do make it through. Will I be included in this select few and will my qualifications and credentials be sufficient to allow me to be included in this select group? After thinking about this for some time I now realize that the road that Jesus is referring to is one that is inside me, and as Jesus becomes more and more a part of my life, that my road is no longer the broad road of my own selfish nature, but that it is becoming a narrow, one lane road which is leading me to the gates of life. God is changing my ways and is directing my life and getting me off the broad road and onto the narrow road. God tells each of us to walk the straight and narrow path, and I would encourage all of you to look at your own life and see which road you are traveling on. It is not too late to get on the right road that leads to life. “And a highway will be there; it will be called the Way of Holiness. The unclean will not journey on it; it will be for those who walk in that way.” Isaiah 35:8.
Saturday, June 26, 2010
My Daily Devotional
God will Protect Us
“I know whom I have believed, and am convinced that he is able to guard what I have entrusted to him for that day.”
2nd Timothy 1:12
Over the past twenty years I have done much research on the history of the Cherokee Indian tribes as my ancestors were Cherokee. An interesting custom was the rite of passage for a young man. His father takes him into the forest, blindfolds him and leaves him alone. He is required to sit on a log the whole night and not remove the blindfold until the sun comes up in the morning. The boy is naturally terrified. He can hear all kinds of noises. Wild beasts must surely be all around him, and could attack at any moment. The sounds of the wind blowing through the trees, and strange noises frighten him throughout the night, but he must remain blindfolded. He cannot cry out for help to anyone but once he survives the night, he is a Man. The irony of the story is that when the young boys survive the horror of the night that they find their father sitting on a log just across from theirs. He had been there the entire night, protecting his son from harm. This is the way that our heavenly father watches over us. We don’t always know and realize that He is sitting beside us when we are afraid, and don’t know what is going on around us, but He is there protecting us from harm. Many times our blindfolds keep us in the dark, as when we can’t see God in our lives we do not think about Him at all times, but He is there just the same. When we can’t see our protector sitting beside us and watching over us, our troubles can seem greater than they are, and our fear can sometimes overwhelm us. It is during these times of trouble and fear that we can take comfort in knowing that all we have to do is reach out to Him, and He will take our hand and comfort us and watch over us.
“I know whom I have believed, and am convinced that he is able to guard what I have entrusted to him for that day.”
2nd Timothy 1:12
Over the past twenty years I have done much research on the history of the Cherokee Indian tribes as my ancestors were Cherokee. An interesting custom was the rite of passage for a young man. His father takes him into the forest, blindfolds him and leaves him alone. He is required to sit on a log the whole night and not remove the blindfold until the sun comes up in the morning. The boy is naturally terrified. He can hear all kinds of noises. Wild beasts must surely be all around him, and could attack at any moment. The sounds of the wind blowing through the trees, and strange noises frighten him throughout the night, but he must remain blindfolded. He cannot cry out for help to anyone but once he survives the night, he is a Man. The irony of the story is that when the young boys survive the horror of the night that they find their father sitting on a log just across from theirs. He had been there the entire night, protecting his son from harm. This is the way that our heavenly father watches over us. We don’t always know and realize that He is sitting beside us when we are afraid, and don’t know what is going on around us, but He is there protecting us from harm. Many times our blindfolds keep us in the dark, as when we can’t see God in our lives we do not think about Him at all times, but He is there just the same. When we can’t see our protector sitting beside us and watching over us, our troubles can seem greater than they are, and our fear can sometimes overwhelm us. It is during these times of trouble and fear that we can take comfort in knowing that all we have to do is reach out to Him, and He will take our hand and comfort us and watch over us.
Friday, June 25, 2010
My Daily Devotional
Be a Contagious Christian
“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
Acts 1:8
Have you ever thought about what the disciples must have thought when Jesus spoke the message above to them? It must have seemed like an impossible request when they looked at their past lives as a tax collector, a fisher, etc. and Jesus was now telling them to go spread the Gospel throughout all the world. There are times in our lives when we are told to do things on our own, where we have major concerns. Our first day at school, our first bike ride without training wheels or even taking our first step by ourselves. We continually are asked to do things on our own through adolescence and even into adulthood, until we begin a family of our own. Each time we are asked to step out by ourselves we are unsure, but then become excited to find out that we actually could do it all by ourselves. The disciples were, I am sure, questioning whether they could do this by themselves, and had doubts, fears and questions. But Jesus knew what lay ahead of them, and the experiences they would encounter in their lives to spread the gospel throughout the world. It is not easy to step out in faith when we don’t know what may lie ahead of us, but this is what we must do, in our walk with God. Just as the disciples were told to do, to step out and spread the word of God to the world, we are also to step out and spread the word of God to our friends, our neighbors and in our workplaces. We need to be a contagious Christian wherever we are and wherever we go. We are also part of the Great Commission that Jesus gave to the disciples, and need to go out in faith as they did and spread the Word of Jesus wherever we go.
“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
Acts 1:8
Have you ever thought about what the disciples must have thought when Jesus spoke the message above to them? It must have seemed like an impossible request when they looked at their past lives as a tax collector, a fisher, etc. and Jesus was now telling them to go spread the Gospel throughout all the world. There are times in our lives when we are told to do things on our own, where we have major concerns. Our first day at school, our first bike ride without training wheels or even taking our first step by ourselves. We continually are asked to do things on our own through adolescence and even into adulthood, until we begin a family of our own. Each time we are asked to step out by ourselves we are unsure, but then become excited to find out that we actually could do it all by ourselves. The disciples were, I am sure, questioning whether they could do this by themselves, and had doubts, fears and questions. But Jesus knew what lay ahead of them, and the experiences they would encounter in their lives to spread the gospel throughout the world. It is not easy to step out in faith when we don’t know what may lie ahead of us, but this is what we must do, in our walk with God. Just as the disciples were told to do, to step out and spread the word of God to the world, we are also to step out and spread the word of God to our friends, our neighbors and in our workplaces. We need to be a contagious Christian wherever we are and wherever we go. We are also part of the Great Commission that Jesus gave to the disciples, and need to go out in faith as they did and spread the Word of Jesus wherever we go.
Thursday, June 24, 2010
My Daily Devotional
Be Reborn
“You stiff-necked people, uncircumcised in heart and ears, you are forever opposing the Holy Spirit, just as your ancestors used to do.”
Acts 7:51
These are some of the teachings of Stephen to the Sanhedrin just before he was stoned to death. These people were not willing to change their pagan ways and listen to new insights, new approaches and new ideas? They were not teachable in any way. Their hearts were hardened to the words of Jesus Christ that Stephen was trying to convey to them. The strong words “stiff-necked” and “hard-hearted” certainly tells us how inflexible and non-responsive they really were. We can see how the Sanhedrin were, and need to ask ourselves if we would consider ourselves to be as un-teachable as they were. Are we open to new insights, new approaches and new ideas? Most of us would want to answer “yes”, that we are teachable, but just how valid is our response. So often we have hardened our hearts, and have stiffened our necks to the point that we don’t or won’t consider a change in our thinking and attitude. In such a condition we are not open to new ideas, nor are we open to the transforming work of the Spirit of God in our lives. When God comes into our heart we must be ready to be transformed, and be made into a new creature. We must be willing to throw off the old self and put on the new self. “Create in me a clean heart, O God, and put a new and right spirit within me.” Psalm 51:10. We must be willing to change the patterns of our life, and change our attitudes and behavior both in public and private. We must be willing to become the kind of people that God would want for us to become. We need to be committed to our new born self and ask God to reveal to us what attitudes and behaviors that He would have us change.
“You stiff-necked people, uncircumcised in heart and ears, you are forever opposing the Holy Spirit, just as your ancestors used to do.”
Acts 7:51
These are some of the teachings of Stephen to the Sanhedrin just before he was stoned to death. These people were not willing to change their pagan ways and listen to new insights, new approaches and new ideas? They were not teachable in any way. Their hearts were hardened to the words of Jesus Christ that Stephen was trying to convey to them. The strong words “stiff-necked” and “hard-hearted” certainly tells us how inflexible and non-responsive they really were. We can see how the Sanhedrin were, and need to ask ourselves if we would consider ourselves to be as un-teachable as they were. Are we open to new insights, new approaches and new ideas? Most of us would want to answer “yes”, that we are teachable, but just how valid is our response. So often we have hardened our hearts, and have stiffened our necks to the point that we don’t or won’t consider a change in our thinking and attitude. In such a condition we are not open to new ideas, nor are we open to the transforming work of the Spirit of God in our lives. When God comes into our heart we must be ready to be transformed, and be made into a new creature. We must be willing to throw off the old self and put on the new self. “Create in me a clean heart, O God, and put a new and right spirit within me.” Psalm 51:10. We must be willing to change the patterns of our life, and change our attitudes and behavior both in public and private. We must be willing to become the kind of people that God would want for us to become. We need to be committed to our new born self and ask God to reveal to us what attitudes and behaviors that He would have us change.
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
My Daily Devotional
You are not Alone
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”
2nd Timothy 4:7
Several days ago I received a call from one of my former employers that one of my good friends had passed away after a ferocious battle with cancer. This was a good Christian man who walked the talk in his everyday life and was a beacon for everyone to follow. That night I read the scripture above and it really hit home. It made me think that as my friend was going through all the trials in his life over the past few months he kept his faith, fought the good fight and finished the race. He was able to do this because he had God to lean on, and who was his strength during his struggles. I know that so many people try to solve problems on their own, and then realize that they can’t do it by themselves and eventually turn things over to God. We can all fight the good fight, and sometimes finish the race by ourselves but when we do it without faith it just isn’t satisfying, but only sufficient. There is no gratification in doing something that isn’t in God’s will. There is a security in knowing that when you fight the good fight and finish the race with faith that God was on your side through it all. God knows all our strengths and weaknesses, and as He promises throughout the Bible will not make our burdens more than we can bear. And even though when we are down in our valleys and the storm clouds surround us God is still there to guide us through and give us peace in our lives. I would encourage each of you, that when you feel that you are all alone, and that no one understands what you are going through, to remember that God knows and understands your troubles, and will provide the understanding that will guide you through your difficult times. Don’t try to do it all by yourself, but turn to God who will walk by your side.
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”
2nd Timothy 4:7
Several days ago I received a call from one of my former employers that one of my good friends had passed away after a ferocious battle with cancer. This was a good Christian man who walked the talk in his everyday life and was a beacon for everyone to follow. That night I read the scripture above and it really hit home. It made me think that as my friend was going through all the trials in his life over the past few months he kept his faith, fought the good fight and finished the race. He was able to do this because he had God to lean on, and who was his strength during his struggles. I know that so many people try to solve problems on their own, and then realize that they can’t do it by themselves and eventually turn things over to God. We can all fight the good fight, and sometimes finish the race by ourselves but when we do it without faith it just isn’t satisfying, but only sufficient. There is no gratification in doing something that isn’t in God’s will. There is a security in knowing that when you fight the good fight and finish the race with faith that God was on your side through it all. God knows all our strengths and weaknesses, and as He promises throughout the Bible will not make our burdens more than we can bear. And even though when we are down in our valleys and the storm clouds surround us God is still there to guide us through and give us peace in our lives. I would encourage each of you, that when you feel that you are all alone, and that no one understands what you are going through, to remember that God knows and understands your troubles, and will provide the understanding that will guide you through your difficult times. Don’t try to do it all by yourself, but turn to God who will walk by your side.
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
My Daily Devotional
God is our Creator
“God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them.”
Genesis 1:27
Last week as I was turning through the television channels, there was a program which I momentarily watched, which was talking about Darwin’s Theory of Evolution. The program was showing a progression of man from the so called apes to the present day form of man. I know that godless information such as this turns people away from believing the real truth of creation. I remember a cartoon several years ago showing a gorilla in a zoo, holding a Bible in one hand, and a book about evolution in the other? He was looking confused, so someone asked, “What are you doing?” The gorilla answered, “Well, I’m trying to decide if I’m my brother’s keeper, or my keeper’s brother.” The subject of Creation versus Evolution is no laughing matter as the sad truth is that our children and our future generations are suffering because of the evolutionist’s attack on the belief in God today. Unfortunately, many parents do not take the responsibility of teaching their children about God, the Great Creator, and leave this up to the ignorant multitude of liberals that are taking over much of our school system, and teaching our children this so called “evolution pollution”. As parents it is our responsibility to let our children know why they believe in God’s creation and to be able to share their beliefs. I would encourage all parents to make sure your child is not caught up in the web of deceit that is pervading our society on the subject of evolution verses creation. Make sure you are equipped to handle this situation, and are able to answer your children’s questions so they can present and defend their positions. It is extremely important to make sure our children do not begin doubting the real God and their creation.
“God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them.”
Genesis 1:27
Last week as I was turning through the television channels, there was a program which I momentarily watched, which was talking about Darwin’s Theory of Evolution. The program was showing a progression of man from the so called apes to the present day form of man. I know that godless information such as this turns people away from believing the real truth of creation. I remember a cartoon several years ago showing a gorilla in a zoo, holding a Bible in one hand, and a book about evolution in the other? He was looking confused, so someone asked, “What are you doing?” The gorilla answered, “Well, I’m trying to decide if I’m my brother’s keeper, or my keeper’s brother.” The subject of Creation versus Evolution is no laughing matter as the sad truth is that our children and our future generations are suffering because of the evolutionist’s attack on the belief in God today. Unfortunately, many parents do not take the responsibility of teaching their children about God, the Great Creator, and leave this up to the ignorant multitude of liberals that are taking over much of our school system, and teaching our children this so called “evolution pollution”. As parents it is our responsibility to let our children know why they believe in God’s creation and to be able to share their beliefs. I would encourage all parents to make sure your child is not caught up in the web of deceit that is pervading our society on the subject of evolution verses creation. Make sure you are equipped to handle this situation, and are able to answer your children’s questions so they can present and defend their positions. It is extremely important to make sure our children do not begin doubting the real God and their creation.
Monday, June 21, 2010
My Daily Devotional
The Trap of Sin
“He who leads the upright along an evil path will fall into his own trap, but the blameless will receive a good inheritance.”
Proverbs 28:10
When I found this scripture a few nights ago I was reminded of something my grandfather told me as I was growing up. He loved to hunt and told me a story about how to trap and tame a fox. He said to find a suitable place in the woods and put some food on the ground. The fox would find it and begin to come back for more food. When they are used to coming every day, you put a fence down one side of the food. When they get used to the fence being there, you put up another side of the fence. When they get used to that you put up another side. You continue until you have all four sides of the fence up with a gate in the last side. When the fox, which now is used to the free food, comes through the gate to eat, a trap door closes the gate and the fox is trapped. Soon the fox forgets about his freedom, and eats the free food and accepts his captivity. I believe that the scheme of Satan is much like this. For example we begin to get used to and accept just a little sin in our life, like an off color program on television that we begin watching, then another level of sin is added and we become accustomed to this, then another is added until all four sides of our fence is built and we are trapped. This kind of entrapment is seen throughout our society as we start accepting and compromising just a little, then just a little more, then just a little more, and before long we can be trapped into a life of sin. Just as there is not a difference between a white lie and a real lie, there is not a difference between the levels of sin we commit. If we commit a sin and we know that we are sinning we are still guilty. A word of caution do only what you would be comfortable doing if Jesus was beside you watching you.
“He who leads the upright along an evil path will fall into his own trap, but the blameless will receive a good inheritance.”
Proverbs 28:10
When I found this scripture a few nights ago I was reminded of something my grandfather told me as I was growing up. He loved to hunt and told me a story about how to trap and tame a fox. He said to find a suitable place in the woods and put some food on the ground. The fox would find it and begin to come back for more food. When they are used to coming every day, you put a fence down one side of the food. When they get used to the fence being there, you put up another side of the fence. When they get used to that you put up another side. You continue until you have all four sides of the fence up with a gate in the last side. When the fox, which now is used to the free food, comes through the gate to eat, a trap door closes the gate and the fox is trapped. Soon the fox forgets about his freedom, and eats the free food and accepts his captivity. I believe that the scheme of Satan is much like this. For example we begin to get used to and accept just a little sin in our life, like an off color program on television that we begin watching, then another level of sin is added and we become accustomed to this, then another is added until all four sides of our fence is built and we are trapped. This kind of entrapment is seen throughout our society as we start accepting and compromising just a little, then just a little more, then just a little more, and before long we can be trapped into a life of sin. Just as there is not a difference between a white lie and a real lie, there is not a difference between the levels of sin we commit. If we commit a sin and we know that we are sinning we are still guilty. A word of caution do only what you would be comfortable doing if Jesus was beside you watching you.
Sunday, June 20, 2010
My Daily Devotional
God’s Masterpiece
“Now the Lord God had planted a garden in the east, in Eden; and there he put the man he had formed. And the Lord God made all kind of trees grow out of the ground—trees that were pleasing to the eye and good for food.”
Genesis 2:8-9
As our children were growing up, there was an artist that we would always watch that would draw beautiful scenic pictures of the trees, grassy hillsides, ponds and beautiful white fluffy clouds against a blue sky. He would always call his clouds, little happy clouds, and would instruct everyone who was watching that these were their clouds, and their trees and they could do whatever they wanted to with them when they drew their own pictures. Have you ever thought about God being a master artist, when He created the Garden of Eden? Can you imagine how He created the spectacular colors of a sunset, the colors of a rainbow, the red and gold leaves of autumn, and how He could have painstakingly painted each leaf on a tree and each blade of grass, and each flower in the field. The beautiful trees, the fluffy clouds, the blue sky, the grassy hillsides and all the beauty that surrounds us was all created and formed by God. God is the ultimate Master Painter, as we can see His creations all around us, and we should be in awe of His masterpiece. But best of all God has placed us in this beautiful garden and now we are also painted into His landscape. Just as the artist we watched years ago instructed we can do whatever we want with our painting. We can add color to this dark world, as we can be a light to the world we live in, or we can live in darkness. We have the freedom to be the splash of gold to our own world and bring our lifeless canvas to its full brilliance. “The light of the righteous shines brightly, but the lamp of the wicked is snuffed out.” Proverbs 13:9
“Now the Lord God had planted a garden in the east, in Eden; and there he put the man he had formed. And the Lord God made all kind of trees grow out of the ground—trees that were pleasing to the eye and good for food.”
Genesis 2:8-9
As our children were growing up, there was an artist that we would always watch that would draw beautiful scenic pictures of the trees, grassy hillsides, ponds and beautiful white fluffy clouds against a blue sky. He would always call his clouds, little happy clouds, and would instruct everyone who was watching that these were their clouds, and their trees and they could do whatever they wanted to with them when they drew their own pictures. Have you ever thought about God being a master artist, when He created the Garden of Eden? Can you imagine how He created the spectacular colors of a sunset, the colors of a rainbow, the red and gold leaves of autumn, and how He could have painstakingly painted each leaf on a tree and each blade of grass, and each flower in the field. The beautiful trees, the fluffy clouds, the blue sky, the grassy hillsides and all the beauty that surrounds us was all created and formed by God. God is the ultimate Master Painter, as we can see His creations all around us, and we should be in awe of His masterpiece. But best of all God has placed us in this beautiful garden and now we are also painted into His landscape. Just as the artist we watched years ago instructed we can do whatever we want with our painting. We can add color to this dark world, as we can be a light to the world we live in, or we can live in darkness. We have the freedom to be the splash of gold to our own world and bring our lifeless canvas to its full brilliance. “The light of the righteous shines brightly, but the lamp of the wicked is snuffed out.” Proverbs 13:9
Saturday, June 19, 2010
My Daily Devotional
You Shall Be Healed
“If you listen carefully to the voice of the Lord your God and do what is right in his eyes, if you pay attention to his commands and keep all his decrees, I will not bring on you any of the diseases I brought on the Egyptians, for I am the Lord, who heals you.”
Exodus 15:26
Being in the health care field for 45 years I have sat and listened to people who were struggling with health issues, and have had them unburden their hearts to me about their fears of what was going to happen to them. They were torn apart emotionally, spiritually and physically with their diseases and usually did not know where to turn for comfort and reassurance. No one knows the anguish that people with chronic sickness suffer until they go through health issues themselves. God tells us in the scripture above that there is hope in Him as He can be our healer. I would encourage you to not lose hope, as He is still the God who heals us, no matter what disease we are battling, and no matter how bleak the situation looks. We can find many examples throughout the Bible where people with all kinds of illnesses were healed both by Jesus and by His disciples. Healing starts with the belief that there is a God and the faith and trust that God can heal any affliction. The Bible gives us instruction, hope and faith when we believe and pray to God for our healing. The Word of God tells us to lay our hands on those who are suffering, anoint them with oil and pray the prayer of faith to God on their behalf. When we do, we are taught that God will do the rest. We can discover that through prayer and asking God for healing that great things can take place. The power of God can heal, restore and make new bodies that were suffering. When we have even the amount of faith as small as a mustard seed we have enough faith to be healed
“If you listen carefully to the voice of the Lord your God and do what is right in his eyes, if you pay attention to his commands and keep all his decrees, I will not bring on you any of the diseases I brought on the Egyptians, for I am the Lord, who heals you.”
Exodus 15:26
Being in the health care field for 45 years I have sat and listened to people who were struggling with health issues, and have had them unburden their hearts to me about their fears of what was going to happen to them. They were torn apart emotionally, spiritually and physically with their diseases and usually did not know where to turn for comfort and reassurance. No one knows the anguish that people with chronic sickness suffer until they go through health issues themselves. God tells us in the scripture above that there is hope in Him as He can be our healer. I would encourage you to not lose hope, as He is still the God who heals us, no matter what disease we are battling, and no matter how bleak the situation looks. We can find many examples throughout the Bible where people with all kinds of illnesses were healed both by Jesus and by His disciples. Healing starts with the belief that there is a God and the faith and trust that God can heal any affliction. The Bible gives us instruction, hope and faith when we believe and pray to God for our healing. The Word of God tells us to lay our hands on those who are suffering, anoint them with oil and pray the prayer of faith to God on their behalf. When we do, we are taught that God will do the rest. We can discover that through prayer and asking God for healing that great things can take place. The power of God can heal, restore and make new bodies that were suffering. When we have even the amount of faith as small as a mustard seed we have enough faith to be healed
Friday, June 18, 2010
My Daily Devotional
God is Always There
“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.”
Isaiah 43:2-3
The above scripture should be such an assurance to all of us, as God is telling us that He will always be there in our times of trouble and trials. Many times it is only when we begin to pass through the waters and the rivers and are trying to keep our heads above water do we begin to turn to God to ask for help in solving our problems. I believe that when things are going good in our lives and everything is coming up roses that this is the time that we are most vulnerable from the attacks of Satan. During the past two years I have had several friends that have developed cancer. There is a national cancer care website that has been developed where they can share information and receive encouragement from others who have this terrible disease. I have been writing devotionals which I post on this website as encouragements to these people to help them deal with their problems, and through this website I have communicated with many of these people. I have found that it has taken this life threatening disease to bring many of them back to God. It is very difficult for many of these people, but I have seen that God has strengthened the character of many of them, and has even given some of them a ministry to help and support others. When people are down in their valleys and the storm clouds are surrounding them they begin to turn to God for comfort and protection. So often it takes adversity in our lives to make us aware of our vulnerability, but we can all rest assured that God will always be there in our times of trouble and trials, and all that we need to do is to call on Him.
“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.”
Isaiah 43:2-3
The above scripture should be such an assurance to all of us, as God is telling us that He will always be there in our times of trouble and trials. Many times it is only when we begin to pass through the waters and the rivers and are trying to keep our heads above water do we begin to turn to God to ask for help in solving our problems. I believe that when things are going good in our lives and everything is coming up roses that this is the time that we are most vulnerable from the attacks of Satan. During the past two years I have had several friends that have developed cancer. There is a national cancer care website that has been developed where they can share information and receive encouragement from others who have this terrible disease. I have been writing devotionals which I post on this website as encouragements to these people to help them deal with their problems, and through this website I have communicated with many of these people. I have found that it has taken this life threatening disease to bring many of them back to God. It is very difficult for many of these people, but I have seen that God has strengthened the character of many of them, and has even given some of them a ministry to help and support others. When people are down in their valleys and the storm clouds are surrounding them they begin to turn to God for comfort and protection. So often it takes adversity in our lives to make us aware of our vulnerability, but we can all rest assured that God will always be there in our times of trouble and trials, and all that we need to do is to call on Him.
Thursday, June 17, 2010
My Daily Devotional
God is our Refuge
“I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress; my God; in Him will I trust.”
Psalm 91:2
Recently we have seen wildfires destroy and do much devastation to the homes of people, especially in California, but also over many other parts of our nation. The material possessions that these people have worked a lifetime to accumulate have been wiped away in an instant. The security that these families enjoyed, even last week, has now gone up in smoke and they are left with a feeling of despair and helpliness. This is how quickly our worlds can change, as one minute we can feel safe and secure, and the next minute our worlds can be completely turned around and we find ourselves without any hope. Throughout the Bible God tells us not to become enamored with our worldly possessions, as these will pass away, but rather to be concerned about our inward selves as these will never pass away. God tells us that He will provide for our needs, and not to worry about anything else. He tells us that He provides even for the needs of the birds, as they do not worry about their needs. All of us need to learn a lesson from these kinds of disasters, and realize that many times we put all our focus on acquiring all the material things of life, rather than focusing on what should really matter. When times of trouble confront us, such as wildfires, hurricanes and tornadoes we are not alone as God tells us in the scripture above that He is still our refuge and our fortress and we need to continue to trust in Him. Even though God knows all things before they happen, I believe that He allows some of the catastrophic events to happen to make us aware of our vulnerability, and that He is still in control. During our times of trouble we still need to keep our eyes looking upwards and depend on God to help us through.
“I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress; my God; in Him will I trust.”
Psalm 91:2
Recently we have seen wildfires destroy and do much devastation to the homes of people, especially in California, but also over many other parts of our nation. The material possessions that these people have worked a lifetime to accumulate have been wiped away in an instant. The security that these families enjoyed, even last week, has now gone up in smoke and they are left with a feeling of despair and helpliness. This is how quickly our worlds can change, as one minute we can feel safe and secure, and the next minute our worlds can be completely turned around and we find ourselves without any hope. Throughout the Bible God tells us not to become enamored with our worldly possessions, as these will pass away, but rather to be concerned about our inward selves as these will never pass away. God tells us that He will provide for our needs, and not to worry about anything else. He tells us that He provides even for the needs of the birds, as they do not worry about their needs. All of us need to learn a lesson from these kinds of disasters, and realize that many times we put all our focus on acquiring all the material things of life, rather than focusing on what should really matter. When times of trouble confront us, such as wildfires, hurricanes and tornadoes we are not alone as God tells us in the scripture above that He is still our refuge and our fortress and we need to continue to trust in Him. Even though God knows all things before they happen, I believe that He allows some of the catastrophic events to happen to make us aware of our vulnerability, and that He is still in control. During our times of trouble we still need to keep our eyes looking upwards and depend on God to help us through.
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
My Daily Devotional
Learn To Forgive
“But I tell you who hear me: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you. If someone strikes you on one cheek, turn to him the other also.”
Luke 6:27-29
In this world we live in today, it would be rare to find many who would turn the other cheek as the scripture above states. However throughout the Bible this is the message that Jesus keeps sending us. Forgiveness is something that so many people struggle with every day of their lives. As I have counseled people throughout the years, many times the underlying problem that these people are facing is the lack of being able to forgive others. So many of them have been hurt by employers, friends, neighbors and many times by family members, and they have not been able to forgive and forget and go on with their lives. The pain keeps gnawing at them and does not go away, and the longer they harbor this hurt the more it spreads into other parts of their lives and into their family situations. “For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.” Matthew 6:15. When we are unable to release bitterness and pent up anger inside us this is going to keep God from operating in our lives. I know it is difficult to forgive someone who has hurt you, but just remember the sacrifice that Jesus made to forgive you. What He is asking you to do is nothing compared to the sacrifice He made on your behalf. If there is someone that has harmed you, and you have not been able to forgive, I would encourage you to ask God for the strength to help you forgive them, as this is one of the most important elements in your walk with Jesus. As the above scripture tells us, what better reason do we have to forgive others so that our sins will also be forgiven?
“But I tell you who hear me: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you. If someone strikes you on one cheek, turn to him the other also.”
Luke 6:27-29
In this world we live in today, it would be rare to find many who would turn the other cheek as the scripture above states. However throughout the Bible this is the message that Jesus keeps sending us. Forgiveness is something that so many people struggle with every day of their lives. As I have counseled people throughout the years, many times the underlying problem that these people are facing is the lack of being able to forgive others. So many of them have been hurt by employers, friends, neighbors and many times by family members, and they have not been able to forgive and forget and go on with their lives. The pain keeps gnawing at them and does not go away, and the longer they harbor this hurt the more it spreads into other parts of their lives and into their family situations. “For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.” Matthew 6:15. When we are unable to release bitterness and pent up anger inside us this is going to keep God from operating in our lives. I know it is difficult to forgive someone who has hurt you, but just remember the sacrifice that Jesus made to forgive you. What He is asking you to do is nothing compared to the sacrifice He made on your behalf. If there is someone that has harmed you, and you have not been able to forgive, I would encourage you to ask God for the strength to help you forgive them, as this is one of the most important elements in your walk with Jesus. As the above scripture tells us, what better reason do we have to forgive others so that our sins will also be forgiven?
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
My Daily Devotional
Step Out of the Boat
“If anyone is ashamed of me and my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of Man will be ashamed of him when he comes in his Father’s glory with the holy angels.”
Mark 8:38
When I read this scripture a few nights ago it reminded me of the many times I had the opportunity over the years to let people know that I was a Christian. Even though I have always attended church I never was committed enough to really take my faith out into my workplace, which is so unfortunate. I had always been comfortable just being a good, considerate, respectful and honest man with all the people I came into contact with. However when the power of God began to work in my life everything changed. It reminds me of the Apostle Paul when he stepped out of the boat to go meet Jesus on the lake. I am sure he felt safe and secure in the boat, but when he stepped out in faith he was not sure what would happen. For a short time his faith sustained him, but when he began to doubt he began to sink. This is how so many people are in their own walks of faith. We are afraid to step out in the water, to venture out to territories where we have never been. But when we see and read some of the scriptures of Jesus such as the ones above, we must be willing to begin to step out in faith, and put our trust in God. I know that my life has changed dramatically since I have stepped out, and God has sustained me and given me abilities I never knew I had to make a difference. If there is one thing that I could ever encourage each of you to do, it would be to never be afraid to step out of your comfort zones to do the work of God and to spread His gospel. Amazing things will begin to happen in your life and you will never be the same again. God will take you to new heights in your ability to understand and reveal the plan He has for your life.
“If anyone is ashamed of me and my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of Man will be ashamed of him when he comes in his Father’s glory with the holy angels.”
Mark 8:38
When I read this scripture a few nights ago it reminded me of the many times I had the opportunity over the years to let people know that I was a Christian. Even though I have always attended church I never was committed enough to really take my faith out into my workplace, which is so unfortunate. I had always been comfortable just being a good, considerate, respectful and honest man with all the people I came into contact with. However when the power of God began to work in my life everything changed. It reminds me of the Apostle Paul when he stepped out of the boat to go meet Jesus on the lake. I am sure he felt safe and secure in the boat, but when he stepped out in faith he was not sure what would happen. For a short time his faith sustained him, but when he began to doubt he began to sink. This is how so many people are in their own walks of faith. We are afraid to step out in the water, to venture out to territories where we have never been. But when we see and read some of the scriptures of Jesus such as the ones above, we must be willing to begin to step out in faith, and put our trust in God. I know that my life has changed dramatically since I have stepped out, and God has sustained me and given me abilities I never knew I had to make a difference. If there is one thing that I could ever encourage each of you to do, it would be to never be afraid to step out of your comfort zones to do the work of God and to spread His gospel. Amazing things will begin to happen in your life and you will never be the same again. God will take you to new heights in your ability to understand and reveal the plan He has for your life.
Monday, June 14, 2010
My Daily Devotional
Our Great Commission
“For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.”
Matthew 9:13
This past weekend I received a call from the local community center, about one of the young men that has been helping with some of the projects we have established to help the needy in our area. He had just attended a local church and had asked Jesus into his heart. This young man had a troubled past, as his family had been torn apart by divorce at an early age, which left him pretty much on his own throughout his teen aged years. He had gotten mixed up with the wrong crowd and had begun using drugs, and had gotten himself in trouble with the police. He was assigned to do community service as part of his punishment, and had been helping distribute food to the needy. During the time he was assigned to us, there were several of us that counseled with him almost on a daily basis. When I received the call about him turning his life over to God, it thrilled my heart to know that I had a small part in rescuing this young man. This is just one of many examples of what I have experienced during the past seven years as I have ventured out to reach lost souls. I believe Jesus’ great commission to go out and reach others is the most important thing that we can do in our walk with God. We have to venture out of our comfort zones and go where these people are. This young man would never have gone to church on his own, but being in the presence of people of God was enough influence in his life to change him and get his life back on track. This is where God wants Christians to be, trying to bring sinners to know what a life in Christ is like. We cannot do this only going to church on Sunday. Sunday is the time we need our own spiritual food, but then we need to be out helping others partake of the spiritual food as well.
“For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.”
Matthew 9:13
This past weekend I received a call from the local community center, about one of the young men that has been helping with some of the projects we have established to help the needy in our area. He had just attended a local church and had asked Jesus into his heart. This young man had a troubled past, as his family had been torn apart by divorce at an early age, which left him pretty much on his own throughout his teen aged years. He had gotten mixed up with the wrong crowd and had begun using drugs, and had gotten himself in trouble with the police. He was assigned to do community service as part of his punishment, and had been helping distribute food to the needy. During the time he was assigned to us, there were several of us that counseled with him almost on a daily basis. When I received the call about him turning his life over to God, it thrilled my heart to know that I had a small part in rescuing this young man. This is just one of many examples of what I have experienced during the past seven years as I have ventured out to reach lost souls. I believe Jesus’ great commission to go out and reach others is the most important thing that we can do in our walk with God. We have to venture out of our comfort zones and go where these people are. This young man would never have gone to church on his own, but being in the presence of people of God was enough influence in his life to change him and get his life back on track. This is where God wants Christians to be, trying to bring sinners to know what a life in Christ is like. We cannot do this only going to church on Sunday. Sunday is the time we need our own spiritual food, but then we need to be out helping others partake of the spiritual food as well.
Sunday, June 13, 2010
My Daily Devotional
The Purpose Of Life
“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
Matthew 6:19-21
Have you ever thought about what the purpose of life is? I believe when God created man He created him with the idea that he would last forever. When He created Adam in the Garden of Eden, I believe God made him to be eternal. When Adam and Eve brought sin into the world, this changed things. However when Jesus came back to die on the cross for our sins this again gave us the chance to again have our eternal life. I believe the purpose of life is just a step to prepare us for eternity. We were made to last forever, and God wants us to eventually be with Him in Heaven. Our life on earth is to prepare us and get us ready, as our time on earth is only a short time, but eternity will last forever. The hills and valleys that we go through on earth is only our practice field, as God wants us to grow in character and in our Christ likeness. Our life here on earth is a series of good times and bad times much like a roller coaster as we are either going uphill or coasting down. We are in many instances like David as he was either thanking God for the good times and on top of the hill, or asking Him for help during his bad times and down in the valleys. I believe that no matter how good things are in your life, there is always something bad that needs to be worked on. And no matter how bad things are in your life, there is always something good that you can thank God for. I believe God wants us to be happy on earth, but our purpose is to become more Christ like and to be more like Him.
“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
Matthew 6:19-21
Have you ever thought about what the purpose of life is? I believe when God created man He created him with the idea that he would last forever. When He created Adam in the Garden of Eden, I believe God made him to be eternal. When Adam and Eve brought sin into the world, this changed things. However when Jesus came back to die on the cross for our sins this again gave us the chance to again have our eternal life. I believe the purpose of life is just a step to prepare us for eternity. We were made to last forever, and God wants us to eventually be with Him in Heaven. Our life on earth is to prepare us and get us ready, as our time on earth is only a short time, but eternity will last forever. The hills and valleys that we go through on earth is only our practice field, as God wants us to grow in character and in our Christ likeness. Our life here on earth is a series of good times and bad times much like a roller coaster as we are either going uphill or coasting down. We are in many instances like David as he was either thanking God for the good times and on top of the hill, or asking Him for help during his bad times and down in the valleys. I believe that no matter how good things are in your life, there is always something bad that needs to be worked on. And no matter how bad things are in your life, there is always something good that you can thank God for. I believe God wants us to be happy on earth, but our purpose is to become more Christ like and to be more like Him.
Saturday, June 12, 2010
My Daily Devotional
God Will Provide
“Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear.”
Matthew 6:25
The thought that is becoming more prevalent in our society today is about pleasing ourselves and fulfilling our desires. From the simple life that our ancestors lived, we have evolved into one that is focused not on meeting just our needs, but are caught up in our wants and desires. These are things that go far beyond our food, clothing and shelter needs that are necessary to maintain life, but we have become consumed with the materialistic things of life. We must have that new house, that new car, that new television, go on our dream vacation, have the latest fashions, etc. The focus of our lives has become centered on these materialistic possessions, and before we know it the bills start coming in and worry and stress quickly follow. Jesus understood just how bad people can get caught up in the temporal, worldly, demanding and ruthless ways of the world, and tells us to not be concerned about our life. He tells us not to worry, but one of the silent killers in our society today is stress, which so often is brought about by worry. We all need to deal with the thoughts of tomorrow, and what it will bring, but we do not need to worry about it as God tells us that He will provide all our needs. It is true that our culture has changed, but the one constant is still there and that is the promise that Jesus made to all of us. That promise is that there is a bright future for all of us, as we do not have to be concerned about our tomorrows, as He came to provide a way where we do not have be burdened down with stress and worry about our future. Our eternity in heaven is already planned for us when we accept Jesus as our savior, and our future is assured when we trust in Him to provide all our needs.
“Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear.”
Matthew 6:25
The thought that is becoming more prevalent in our society today is about pleasing ourselves and fulfilling our desires. From the simple life that our ancestors lived, we have evolved into one that is focused not on meeting just our needs, but are caught up in our wants and desires. These are things that go far beyond our food, clothing and shelter needs that are necessary to maintain life, but we have become consumed with the materialistic things of life. We must have that new house, that new car, that new television, go on our dream vacation, have the latest fashions, etc. The focus of our lives has become centered on these materialistic possessions, and before we know it the bills start coming in and worry and stress quickly follow. Jesus understood just how bad people can get caught up in the temporal, worldly, demanding and ruthless ways of the world, and tells us to not be concerned about our life. He tells us not to worry, but one of the silent killers in our society today is stress, which so often is brought about by worry. We all need to deal with the thoughts of tomorrow, and what it will bring, but we do not need to worry about it as God tells us that He will provide all our needs. It is true that our culture has changed, but the one constant is still there and that is the promise that Jesus made to all of us. That promise is that there is a bright future for all of us, as we do not have to be concerned about our tomorrows, as He came to provide a way where we do not have be burdened down with stress and worry about our future. Our eternity in heaven is already planned for us when we accept Jesus as our savior, and our future is assured when we trust in Him to provide all our needs.
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