[S] 1 Corinthians 13:2 --
If I have the gift of prophecy, and know all mysteries and all knowledge; and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing.
[O] If God allows, I can do miracles mentioned in this verse. In fact, God can do all of them at His will but when He does, He does them with a clear purpose other than just to show off His powers. And that's where His love comes into play. He created this world out of love for us. He constantly did miracles so we may understand His love for us. He even had to sacrifice His own self separated from His power, again, driven by His love for us. If He did all this for love, then I certainly should do all I do out of love also. Without such a motivation, what good is showing off all the powers?
[A] We had named large groups, called zones, within our small group ministry after names of mountains in the Bible such as Mt. Carmel, Mt. Sinai, and Mt. Zion because we felt God wants us to move some mountains. It sounded all good, however, based on today's passage, we have to make sure love is the current that runs through us as we move these "mountains" because without it our ministry is nothing.
[P] Dear Father, thank You for the love that joins everything You had done for us. May that heart of love permeate through me and my family's hearts so we would follow after doing all we do in our ministry out of love. We love You and may that same love shine right through our lives. In Jesus' name. Amen.
From my Life devotional journaling and more (Read Today's Passage)
Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer
Monday, February 28, 2011
Sunday, February 27, 2011
Mountain-Top Prayers for Followers
[S] Mark 6:46 --
After bidding them farewell, He left for the mountain to pray.
[O] Praying for those I care for came to mind as I read this passage about how Jesus after sending His discipleships away He went to the mountain to pray. When He was with them He would teach them His ways directly and when He's away from them He leads them by covering them through prayer. And when I think about it some more His prayers are not like mine where it is filled with doubts and unbelief, not to mention sinfulness in my life; His prayers are on target every requests He makes. However, His perfect prayers did not make His disciples perfect but did allow them to live out for God's purpose (except for Judas Iscariot).
[A] This "perfect" picture of prayer support of those Jesus cared for is what I need to practice more. There are times to plan for the training and showing them what to do, but as critical as those are my prayer covering for these people -- my family members and those I care for in ministry. I also need to remember that these people I care for are still imperfect human beings as I am so I must practice my faith in God and not in these people. God will move their hearts to walk with Him.
[P] Dear Father, please continue to uplift those I care for in this worldas I commit to pray for them more diligently with a time set aside. I want to follow Jesus' model of caring for His followers as I ask in His name. Amen.
After bidding them farewell, He left for the mountain to pray.
[O] Praying for those I care for came to mind as I read this passage about how Jesus after sending His discipleships away He went to the mountain to pray. When He was with them He would teach them His ways directly and when He's away from them He leads them by covering them through prayer. And when I think about it some more His prayers are not like mine where it is filled with doubts and unbelief, not to mention sinfulness in my life; His prayers are on target every requests He makes. However, His perfect prayers did not make His disciples perfect but did allow them to live out for God's purpose (except for Judas Iscariot).
[A] This "perfect" picture of prayer support of those Jesus cared for is what I need to practice more. There are times to plan for the training and showing them what to do, but as critical as those are my prayer covering for these people -- my family members and those I care for in ministry. I also need to remember that these people I care for are still imperfect human beings as I am so I must practice my faith in God and not in these people. God will move their hearts to walk with Him.
[P] Dear Father, please continue to uplift those I care for in this worldas I commit to pray for them more diligently with a time set aside. I want to follow Jesus' model of caring for His followers as I ask in His name. Amen.
Saturday, February 26, 2011
Peaceful and Beautiful Way to End Life on Earth
[S] Numbers 20:28 --
After Moses had stripped Aaron of his garments and put them on his son Eleazar, Aaron died there on the mountain top. Then Moses and Eleazar came down from the mountain.
[O] This verse captures the beautiful and peaceful transition of a Godly man who gave all he had for His ministry. At God's prompting, Aaron ended his life as if he had fulfilled his assignment on earth without any regrets because when that moment came he went up to Mount Hor, passed on his role to Eleazar and then died there. What a scene.
[A] I want to live and end my life here on earth much like this. I'm sure family members and friends will miss me (I think) and sadness cannot be avoided, but I would like my life to be ended because God calls me home after completing my task here on earth so I can pass on from this life with peace and clear transition that is proactively initiated. I do hope such a transitional testimony will bring peace and joyfulness to those at my funeral and to those who will remember me in their hearts.
[P] Dear Father, just like how Jesus had "completed" his assignment on earth and gave up His Spirit on the Cross, I would like to dash towards the end of my life by fully serving You without any energy in me. Please continue to guide me with Your wisdom so I may stay on that course. In Jesus' name. Amen.
After Moses had stripped Aaron of his garments and put them on his son Eleazar, Aaron died there on the mountain top. Then Moses and Eleazar came down from the mountain.
[O] This verse captures the beautiful and peaceful transition of a Godly man who gave all he had for His ministry. At God's prompting, Aaron ended his life as if he had fulfilled his assignment on earth without any regrets because when that moment came he went up to Mount Hor, passed on his role to Eleazar and then died there. What a scene.
[A] I want to live and end my life here on earth much like this. I'm sure family members and friends will miss me (I think) and sadness cannot be avoided, but I would like my life to be ended because God calls me home after completing my task here on earth so I can pass on from this life with peace and clear transition that is proactively initiated. I do hope such a transitional testimony will bring peace and joyfulness to those at my funeral and to those who will remember me in their hearts.
[P] Dear Father, just like how Jesus had "completed" his assignment on earth and gave up His Spirit on the Cross, I would like to dash towards the end of my life by fully serving You without any energy in me. Please continue to guide me with Your wisdom so I may stay on that course. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Friday, February 25, 2011
Time Warp Specialist
[S] Numbers 17:8 --
8Now on the next day Moses went into the tent of the testimony; and behold, the rod of Aaron for the house of Levi had sprouted and put forth buds and produced blossoms, and it bore ripe almonds.
[O] God let what would take months (if not years) to happen over a single night. As my mind is trying to comprehend how a dead piece of wood sprouted, put forth buds, produced blossoms, and then brought for the ripe almonds, I fell on my knees once again to praise and proclaim the fact that God indeed holds all life in His hands and while men continuously argue over how many man years it took to create this world God is still in full control of what happens here in our world. If God can make a dead wooden stick to produce life, I am not sure what God cannot do. And if God overruled our time space to let this happen over a night, what 2 Peter 3:8 says -- But do not let this one fact escape your notice, beloved, that with the Lord one day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years like one day -- is so true and we're barely scratching the surface of trying to understand the power and the heart of God.
[A] I am noticing that I get anxious with the mounting amount of tasks in front of me. Yes, I am a bit busier than before but it's not like I've doubled my work load. As I was reading this passage God revealed to me that I need to surrender my time (24x7) to the God of this universe who can shrink what would take months into a few hours.
[P] Dear Father, please receive my praise for being that awesomely wonderful God who has full control of my world down to every second. May I have the trust and faith in You to surrender all of my time so that You may produce the fruits in due time not based on this world's schedule but according to Yours alone. In Jesus' name. Amen.
8Now on the next day Moses went into the tent of the testimony; and behold, the rod of Aaron for the house of Levi had sprouted and put forth buds and produced blossoms, and it bore ripe almonds.
[O] God let what would take months (if not years) to happen over a single night. As my mind is trying to comprehend how a dead piece of wood sprouted, put forth buds, produced blossoms, and then brought for the ripe almonds, I fell on my knees once again to praise and proclaim the fact that God indeed holds all life in His hands and while men continuously argue over how many man years it took to create this world God is still in full control of what happens here in our world. If God can make a dead wooden stick to produce life, I am not sure what God cannot do. And if God overruled our time space to let this happen over a night, what 2 Peter 3:8 says -- But do not let this one fact escape your notice, beloved, that with the Lord one day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years like one day -- is so true and we're barely scratching the surface of trying to understand the power and the heart of God.
[A] I am noticing that I get anxious with the mounting amount of tasks in front of me. Yes, I am a bit busier than before but it's not like I've doubled my work load. As I was reading this passage God revealed to me that I need to surrender my time (24x7) to the God of this universe who can shrink what would take months into a few hours.
[P] Dear Father, please receive my praise for being that awesomely wonderful God who has full control of my world down to every second. May I have the trust and faith in You to surrender all of my time so that You may produce the fruits in due time not based on this world's schedule but according to Yours alone. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Side Effects of Standing Up For God's Promises
[S] Numbers 14:8-10,19 --
8"If the LORD is pleased with us, then He will bring us into this land and give it to us--a land which flows with milk and honey. 9"Only do not rebel against the LORD; and do not fear the people of the land, for they will be our prey. Their protection has been removed from them, and the LORD is with us; do not fear them." 10But all the congregation said to stone them with stones Then the glory of the LORD appeared in the tent of meeting to all the sons of Israel.
19"Pardon, I pray, the iniquity of this people according to the greatness of Your lovingkindness, just as You also have forgiven this people, from Egypt even until now."
[O] Joshua and Caleb were the only two out of twelve spies who were standing up for God's promises and tried to convince the people to embrace His ways and not fear the people of Canaan. But the people wanted to stone these two valiant warriors. This scene is so much like what Jesus did for us where He came to us to tell us the promise of God to lead us into Heaven despite all the difficulties we face in this world. His intentions were to save us, but the people responded by crucifying Him on the cross. In light of this, Moses in verse 19 intercedes for the people because God's anger is about to wipe out these grumblers and what I noticed in both situations is that Joshua, Caleb, and Moses all focused on God's greatness rather than people's wretchedness. They all were so sure of God's promises based on what He had already shown them from the exodus from Egypt.
[A] My life is going to face a whole bunch of difficult situations especially when my service for His ministry will be misunderstood by others and let alone God's wrath, my own disappointment desires to show them who is right. However, I need to focus and re-focus my mind on God's greatness and not people's imperfectness and continue to put my hope in Him and not get discouraged.
[P] Dear Father, it's so wonderfully assuring to know that You always keep Your promises because by Your promise, I can stand through the ordeals I need to face in this world. There are so many things to worry about in this world it's not even funny. And I can get so wrapped up in all those things losing sight of Your promises for me. I want to be filled with Your Spirit so that I will never lose focus of Your promises especially during the times of walking through some dark moments in life. I ask that You will never let me go. In Jesus' name. Amen.
8"If the LORD is pleased with us, then He will bring us into this land and give it to us--a land which flows with milk and honey. 9"Only do not rebel against the LORD; and do not fear the people of the land, for they will be our prey. Their protection has been removed from them, and the LORD is with us; do not fear them." 10But all the congregation said to stone them with stones Then the glory of the LORD appeared in the tent of meeting to all the sons of Israel.
19"Pardon, I pray, the iniquity of this people according to the greatness of Your lovingkindness, just as You also have forgiven this people, from Egypt even until now."
[O] Joshua and Caleb were the only two out of twelve spies who were standing up for God's promises and tried to convince the people to embrace His ways and not fear the people of Canaan. But the people wanted to stone these two valiant warriors. This scene is so much like what Jesus did for us where He came to us to tell us the promise of God to lead us into Heaven despite all the difficulties we face in this world. His intentions were to save us, but the people responded by crucifying Him on the cross. In light of this, Moses in verse 19 intercedes for the people because God's anger is about to wipe out these grumblers and what I noticed in both situations is that Joshua, Caleb, and Moses all focused on God's greatness rather than people's wretchedness. They all were so sure of God's promises based on what He had already shown them from the exodus from Egypt.
[A] My life is going to face a whole bunch of difficult situations especially when my service for His ministry will be misunderstood by others and let alone God's wrath, my own disappointment desires to show them who is right. However, I need to focus and re-focus my mind on God's greatness and not people's imperfectness and continue to put my hope in Him and not get discouraged.
[P] Dear Father, it's so wonderfully assuring to know that You always keep Your promises because by Your promise, I can stand through the ordeals I need to face in this world. There are so many things to worry about in this world it's not even funny. And I can get so wrapped up in all those things losing sight of Your promises for me. I want to be filled with Your Spirit so that I will never lose focus of Your promises especially during the times of walking through some dark moments in life. I ask that You will never let me go. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
God Hears Every Grumble
[S] Numbers 12:2; Mark 2:8 --
2and they said, "Has the LORD indeed spoken only through Moses? Has He not spoken through us as well?" And the LORD heard it.
8Immediately Jesus, aware in His spirit that they were reasoning that way within themselves, said to them, "Why are you reasoning about these things in your hearts?
[O] Here are two instances where God hears what we say, grumble, or mumble because He sees our hearts where all these originate from to begin with. The phrase from verse 2, "And the LORD heard it" was almost amusing to read because when did God close His ears to hear what we say? Or perhaps it is the statement describing how Aaron and Miriam were thinking what they grumbled was not going to be noticed by God just like how the Pharisees who mumbled thinking Jesus won't hear them. This goes to show how limited our views are of this world and yet we try to claim that we know everything when we can only fathom just a fraction of what is really out there in the realm of God.
[A] Through the Book of Isaiah God's been teaching me how He is the true author of this universe and the small world we live in without a doubt. He is the one writing the history down to the specifics of who is going to be in ruling powers of certain nations. In light of this, how I get so wrapped up in my little world and what seems to be huge problems I'm facing. I need to break out of this shell and open up my mind, spirit, and perspective to the wider and grandiose plan of God for my life.
[P] Dear Father, I bow down now and praise You for what You have done and will do in this world. I pray that my life will be in sync with what you're about to do and that my mind will meditate on Your word day and night to soak up Your awesomeness to live out my days with a super zing! In Your name. Amen.
2and they said, "Has the LORD indeed spoken only through Moses? Has He not spoken through us as well?" And the LORD heard it.
8Immediately Jesus, aware in His spirit that they were reasoning that way within themselves, said to them, "Why are you reasoning about these things in your hearts?
[O] Here are two instances where God hears what we say, grumble, or mumble because He sees our hearts where all these originate from to begin with. The phrase from verse 2, "And the LORD heard it" was almost amusing to read because when did God close His ears to hear what we say? Or perhaps it is the statement describing how Aaron and Miriam were thinking what they grumbled was not going to be noticed by God just like how the Pharisees who mumbled thinking Jesus won't hear them. This goes to show how limited our views are of this world and yet we try to claim that we know everything when we can only fathom just a fraction of what is really out there in the realm of God.
[A] Through the Book of Isaiah God's been teaching me how He is the true author of this universe and the small world we live in without a doubt. He is the one writing the history down to the specifics of who is going to be in ruling powers of certain nations. In light of this, how I get so wrapped up in my little world and what seems to be huge problems I'm facing. I need to break out of this shell and open up my mind, spirit, and perspective to the wider and grandiose plan of God for my life.
[P] Dear Father, I bow down now and praise You for what You have done and will do in this world. I pray that my life will be in sync with what you're about to do and that my mind will meditate on Your word day and night to soak up Your awesomeness to live out my days with a super zing! In Your name. Amen.
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Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Completing Holy Tasks Well In Advance
[S] Numbers 10:21 --
21Then the Kohathites set out, carrying the holy objects; and the tabernacle was set up before their arrival.
[O] According to verse 13, this is the first time they set out to a new location. Even on their first run the Kohathites were able to set up the Tabernacle before the people arrived without a glitch. I am still amazed at how well so many of these people worked to make this happen. This is a beautiful picture of how God's people work together to honor God's holiness. I'm sure the Kohathites did a superb job of moving all the items from one location to another but I am also wondering about when we handle God's holiness with care and unity, He will not fail to set His presence properly before His people without any errors. When we plan our projects we always factor in to give room for the contingency but in God's plans no such thing is necessary.
[A] In doing my devotion as the first thing in the morning is a great challenge for me even though I really want to do it regularly. I shouldn't have any fear or doubt in carrying that out because just like the Kohathites, when I carry His holiness there is nothing that's going to get in the way.
[P] Dear Father, I want to be used by You such that just like the Kohathites, I would do things orderly with accuracy when it comes to carrying out Your ministry. Whether it's first or tenth time doing it, I want to carry them out with my best to handle Your holiness. In Jesus' name. Amen.
21Then the Kohathites set out, carrying the holy objects; and the tabernacle was set up before their arrival.
[O] According to verse 13, this is the first time they set out to a new location. Even on their first run the Kohathites were able to set up the Tabernacle before the people arrived without a glitch. I am still amazed at how well so many of these people worked to make this happen. This is a beautiful picture of how God's people work together to honor God's holiness. I'm sure the Kohathites did a superb job of moving all the items from one location to another but I am also wondering about when we handle God's holiness with care and unity, He will not fail to set His presence properly before His people without any errors. When we plan our projects we always factor in to give room for the contingency but in God's plans no such thing is necessary.
[A] In doing my devotion as the first thing in the morning is a great challenge for me even though I really want to do it regularly. I shouldn't have any fear or doubt in carrying that out because just like the Kohathites, when I carry His holiness there is nothing that's going to get in the way.
[P] Dear Father, I want to be used by You such that just like the Kohathites, I would do things orderly with accuracy when it comes to carrying out Your ministry. Whether it's first or tenth time doing it, I want to carry them out with my best to handle Your holiness. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Monday, February 21, 2011
People Gather Where Healing Happens
[S] Acts 28:9 --
9 When this had happened, the rest of the sick on the island came and were cured.
[O] When Publius invited Paul and company to his home, Paul healed Publius' father who was quite ill. After this news spread, all other sick people came to Paul and were cured. This is a very simple truth but when people are healed, more (sick) people gather to that same place.
[A] I'm wondering if my life in Christ brings "healing" to those around me at my workplace. When one of the employees who reports to me resigned recently, I felt discouraged because I didn't really got a chance to know him to share the goodnews with that person. I feel I didn't really live up to Paul's way of not losing any opportunity to share his conviction with others including the Gentiles. While I know that employees move jobs for various reasons, I some how felt responsible for not keeping a close relationship with this person to pass on the "healing" power that comes from God above. I need to be bolder in sharing God's goodness whenever opportunities arise at workplace.
[P] Dear Jesus, please mold my heart so I may not shy away from sharing Your message of love and grace with those at my workplace. In Your name. Amen.
9 When this had happened, the rest of the sick on the island came and were cured.
[O] When Publius invited Paul and company to his home, Paul healed Publius' father who was quite ill. After this news spread, all other sick people came to Paul and were cured. This is a very simple truth but when people are healed, more (sick) people gather to that same place.
[A] I'm wondering if my life in Christ brings "healing" to those around me at my workplace. When one of the employees who reports to me resigned recently, I felt discouraged because I didn't really got a chance to know him to share the goodnews with that person. I feel I didn't really live up to Paul's way of not losing any opportunity to share his conviction with others including the Gentiles. While I know that employees move jobs for various reasons, I some how felt responsible for not keeping a close relationship with this person to pass on the "healing" power that comes from God above. I need to be bolder in sharing God's goodness whenever opportunities arise at workplace.
[P] Dear Jesus, please mold my heart so I may not shy away from sharing Your message of love and grace with those at my workplace. In Your name. Amen.
Sunday, February 20, 2011
Be the Glowing Star That Cannot Be Ignored
[S] Acts 27:35-37 --
35Having said this, he took bread and gave thanks to God in the presence of all, and he broke it and began to eat. 36All of them were encouraged and they themselves also took food. 37All of us in the ship were two hundred and seventy-six persons.
[O] Paul comforted and injected strength and hope to the 275 people on board by encouraging them and to break the bread after giving thanks to God. Today's sermon was about becoming the glowing "stars" in the darkness (this world we live in), and Paul was just that to these people who were watching him. As soon as they witnessed Paul they were encouraged and they also ate food and gained strengths. Before this situation, they ignored Paul's warning of danger ahead and now they are all ears when Paul spoke. Once again this exemplifies how God's people tuned into His Spirit can provide the hope and direction for those around them by living out the life that glows.
[A] Yesterday I reflected on the boldness and clear-cut way of Paul's defense of his own beliefs. Today, his boldness manifested in a different way is what challenges me -- his non-threatening and yet impacting lifestyle. He didn't have to challenge anyone in a debate but simply had to show how his God is more powerful than any system and knowledge of this world. I need to continue to develop my intimacy with God such that what I say will be so in line with what God desires.
[P] Dear Father, please put in me the same heart and lifestyle of Paul as I am in this world of sinking ship being tossed by the waves of this world. Sooner or later the people on board will realize how true Your words are and will turn to Your people to seek encouragement and strength. Please use me as one of those people and may I daily learn to submit to You so my life will be prepared for such a time. In Jesus' name. Amen
35Having said this, he took bread and gave thanks to God in the presence of all, and he broke it and began to eat. 36All of them were encouraged and they themselves also took food. 37All of us in the ship were two hundred and seventy-six persons.
[O] Paul comforted and injected strength and hope to the 275 people on board by encouraging them and to break the bread after giving thanks to God. Today's sermon was about becoming the glowing "stars" in the darkness (this world we live in), and Paul was just that to these people who were watching him. As soon as they witnessed Paul they were encouraged and they also ate food and gained strengths. Before this situation, they ignored Paul's warning of danger ahead and now they are all ears when Paul spoke. Once again this exemplifies how God's people tuned into His Spirit can provide the hope and direction for those around them by living out the life that glows.
[A] Yesterday I reflected on the boldness and clear-cut way of Paul's defense of his own beliefs. Today, his boldness manifested in a different way is what challenges me -- his non-threatening and yet impacting lifestyle. He didn't have to challenge anyone in a debate but simply had to show how his God is more powerful than any system and knowledge of this world. I need to continue to develop my intimacy with God such that what I say will be so in line with what God desires.
[P] Dear Father, please put in me the same heart and lifestyle of Paul as I am in this world of sinking ship being tossed by the waves of this world. Sooner or later the people on board will realize how true Your words are and will turn to Your people to seek encouragement and strength. Please use me as one of those people and may I daily learn to submit to You so my life will be prepared for such a time. In Jesus' name. Amen
Saturday, February 19, 2011
Making My Defense Clearly
[S] Acts 26:1 --
1Agrippa said to Paul, "You are permitted to speak for yourself." Then Paul stretched out his hand and proceeded to make his defense:
[O] While being imprisoned for no crime, Paul is summoned by King Agrippa to present his case and Paul displays his readiness to proceed with his defense. His training prior to meeting Jesus is utilized here not only be familiar to speak in such a setting but also to apply his knowledge about the pharisaic practices. God does not waste any time with our lives as long as our hearts turn to Him He will fully utilize the trainings we've received for His glory and purpose. Paul also impressed me with his preparedness to make a defense for what he believes and he does a fine job such that King Agrippa was very much persuaded. I wish I can have the mind like Paul to speak his beliefs clearly with boldness.
[A] I'm not seeking to debate with others but if I were to put into a position to make my defense about my beliefs in Jesus and/or the ministry God has convicted me to participate, I should be ready to make my statement just like Paul -- clearly and to the point with confidence.
[P] Dear Jesus, may my heart be not only be filled with the truth, but may it also be ready to speak the truth in a communicable way customized for various people who may be listening. May I have the sensitivity and persuasiveness to present my convictions to other most effectively so Your glory may be revealed. In Jesus' name. Amen
1Agrippa said to Paul, "You are permitted to speak for yourself." Then Paul stretched out his hand and proceeded to make his defense:
[O] While being imprisoned for no crime, Paul is summoned by King Agrippa to present his case and Paul displays his readiness to proceed with his defense. His training prior to meeting Jesus is utilized here not only be familiar to speak in such a setting but also to apply his knowledge about the pharisaic practices. God does not waste any time with our lives as long as our hearts turn to Him He will fully utilize the trainings we've received for His glory and purpose. Paul also impressed me with his preparedness to make a defense for what he believes and he does a fine job such that King Agrippa was very much persuaded. I wish I can have the mind like Paul to speak his beliefs clearly with boldness.
[A] I'm not seeking to debate with others but if I were to put into a position to make my defense about my beliefs in Jesus and/or the ministry God has convicted me to participate, I should be ready to make my statement just like Paul -- clearly and to the point with confidence.
[P] Dear Jesus, may my heart be not only be filled with the truth, but may it also be ready to speak the truth in a communicable way customized for various people who may be listening. May I have the sensitivity and persuasiveness to present my convictions to other most effectively so Your glory may be revealed. In Jesus' name. Amen
Friday, February 18, 2011
All of Us Doing Our Own Parts
[S] Numbers 4:46-48 --
46All the numbered men of the Levites, whom Moses and Aaron and the leaders of Israel numbered, by their families and by their fathers' households, 47from thirty years and upward even to fifty years old, everyone who could enter to do the work of service and the work of carrying in the tent of meeting. 48Their numbered men were 8,580.
[O] Taking care of the Tabernacle was no small matter and this tall task involved 8,580 Levites assigned to various tasks. As I try to envision what this must have looked like, I see thousands of people busily moving about to pack up the Tabernacle in an orderly fashion so they may move with the Lord's guidance (and then later to set it back up when they are to settle in the next location). From that picture in my mind, I realized that God-sized tasks require God-inspired people collaborating with a clear purpose. Many times I'm quick to measure up the size of the task in front of me and get overwhelmed by how huge the task can be but God reminds me He is a God of order and he works through a teamwork of people aligned to do His will.
[A] Bigger the size of the task in His ministry, larger number of people are needed to handle every little task just like how the Levites managed the Tabernacle. I need to pray more consistently for people's hearts to be moved by His Spirit to see His vision of moving the "mountains" in front of us.
[P] Dear Father, please continue to shower down Your Spirit upon our church to move their hearts so we all may take our own parts to move the whole vision You have for us. In Jesus' name. Amen.
46All the numbered men of the Levites, whom Moses and Aaron and the leaders of Israel numbered, by their families and by their fathers' households, 47from thirty years and upward even to fifty years old, everyone who could enter to do the work of service and the work of carrying in the tent of meeting. 48Their numbered men were 8,580.
[O] Taking care of the Tabernacle was no small matter and this tall task involved 8,580 Levites assigned to various tasks. As I try to envision what this must have looked like, I see thousands of people busily moving about to pack up the Tabernacle in an orderly fashion so they may move with the Lord's guidance (and then later to set it back up when they are to settle in the next location). From that picture in my mind, I realized that God-sized tasks require God-inspired people collaborating with a clear purpose. Many times I'm quick to measure up the size of the task in front of me and get overwhelmed by how huge the task can be but God reminds me He is a God of order and he works through a teamwork of people aligned to do His will.
[A] Bigger the size of the task in His ministry, larger number of people are needed to handle every little task just like how the Levites managed the Tabernacle. I need to pray more consistently for people's hearts to be moved by His Spirit to see His vision of moving the "mountains" in front of us.
[P] Dear Father, please continue to shower down Your Spirit upon our church to move their hearts so we all may take our own parts to move the whole vision You have for us. In Jesus' name. Amen.
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Thursday, February 17, 2011
Be a Real Pest
[S] Acts 24:5 --
5"For we have found this man a real pest and a fellow who stirs up dissension among all the Jews throughout the world, and a ringleader of the sect of the Nazarenes.
[O] Although the accusations made by the Tertullus (one of the Jews) were far from being accurate the fact that they had to go out of their ways to do this tells how influential Paul was to them. The only true thing he said was how Paul was a real pest to them because Paul's message and leadership went directly against their traditional practices of the religion. Instead of bowing before the God who had originally gave them their Law to follow in order to establish a loving relationship with Him, they are rejecting it and thus what Paul is doing became a pest to them. When my will becomes my own goal in life, then what God plans to do becomes a pest getting the way of what I am trying to do.
[A] I'm chewing on the concept of balancing between becoming a pest to this world vs. befriending them in order to present the good news. This is especially true at workplace because you spend a lot of time with the coworkers and so want to have a general plan of approach rather than just "dumping" on them the idea of God's salvation. Or is that what I should be doing? This has been a constant struggle in me and this passage challenges me again.
[P] Dear Father, as much as I want to make an impact to the people around me, especially those who do not know you yet, I seem to be just lukewarm going about it. Please continue to show me how I may be more like Paul in standing up for You in this world. In Jesus' name. Amen.
5"For we have found this man a real pest and a fellow who stirs up dissension among all the Jews throughout the world, and a ringleader of the sect of the Nazarenes.
[O] Although the accusations made by the Tertullus (one of the Jews) were far from being accurate the fact that they had to go out of their ways to do this tells how influential Paul was to them. The only true thing he said was how Paul was a real pest to them because Paul's message and leadership went directly against their traditional practices of the religion. Instead of bowing before the God who had originally gave them their Law to follow in order to establish a loving relationship with Him, they are rejecting it and thus what Paul is doing became a pest to them. When my will becomes my own goal in life, then what God plans to do becomes a pest getting the way of what I am trying to do.
[A] I'm chewing on the concept of balancing between becoming a pest to this world vs. befriending them in order to present the good news. This is especially true at workplace because you spend a lot of time with the coworkers and so want to have a general plan of approach rather than just "dumping" on them the idea of God's salvation. Or is that what I should be doing? This has been a constant struggle in me and this passage challenges me again.
[P] Dear Father, as much as I want to make an impact to the people around me, especially those who do not know you yet, I seem to be just lukewarm going about it. Please continue to show me how I may be more like Paul in standing up for You in this world. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Labels:
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Wednesday, February 16, 2011
How to Spend Strength Uselessly
[S] Leviticus 26:20 --
20'Your strength will be spent uselessly, for your land will not yield its produce and the trees of the land will not yield their fruit.
[O] In verses 3-13, God describes how we'll be blessed when we follow His commandments. All of our needs will be met by God Himself. In this verse, however, explains the consequence of not following His commandments. More so than receiving the wrath of God and falling dead, this is almost like a slow death where all the strength spent to succeed in life will be uselessly wasted. Not only my own efforts, my environment will also be fruitless even they may appear to be fine for example. I remember the times when I felt like pouring water into a bottomless container -- just keep on draining my energy and yet no fruitful results. This may be due to my lack of obeying God's commands.
[A] When my strength is spent uselessly and brings forth no clear fruitfulness, it's time to examine my own heart about how obedient I am with God's commandments. It may not have anything to do with my own abilities of carrying out the tasks.
[P] Dear Jesus, as all strength and power come from You I want to tap into the source with a strong and clean bond by my heart obeying God's commands to the fullest. Please seal this commitment with Your Spirit and make my life in alignment with Your will. In Jesus' name. Amen.
20'Your strength will be spent uselessly, for your land will not yield its produce and the trees of the land will not yield their fruit.
[O] In verses 3-13, God describes how we'll be blessed when we follow His commandments. All of our needs will be met by God Himself. In this verse, however, explains the consequence of not following His commandments. More so than receiving the wrath of God and falling dead, this is almost like a slow death where all the strength spent to succeed in life will be uselessly wasted. Not only my own efforts, my environment will also be fruitless even they may appear to be fine for example. I remember the times when I felt like pouring water into a bottomless container -- just keep on draining my energy and yet no fruitful results. This may be due to my lack of obeying God's commands.
[A] When my strength is spent uselessly and brings forth no clear fruitfulness, it's time to examine my own heart about how obedient I am with God's commandments. It may not have anything to do with my own abilities of carrying out the tasks.
[P] Dear Jesus, as all strength and power come from You I want to tap into the source with a strong and clean bond by my heart obeying God's commands to the fullest. Please seal this commitment with Your Spirit and make my life in alignment with Your will. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
God Grows All Living Things
[S] Leviticus 25:21-22 --
21then I will so order My blessing for you in the sixth year that it will bring forth the crop for three years.
22'When you are sowing the eighth year, you can still eat old things from the crop, eating the old until the ninth year when its crop comes in.
[O] Every seventh year is the year of sabbath where the land and the people rested, so on the sixth year, God brought forth the crop enough to last next three (6th, 7th, and 8th) years. It is indeed God who has the full control of growing all living things on earth. He can triple the growth for a season at his will. Not only that He plans for our future so we will not lack anything as long as we abide in His will out of obedience.
[A] Trusting God in all of my material needs is very easy in theory but most difficult in practice. When I've seen how each year's crop was enough to last until the following year's harvest how can I trust Him to provide for two additional years' worth of crop on the sixth year? It's not easy. Whenever I am struggling to understand how God can provide something beyond the natural phenomena I need to reflect on how God provided for His people during the sabbatical year.
[P] Dear Father, please increase my faith and trust in You so that when I'm up against situations where my kicks in to take control that I would surrender to You for Your provision which is out of this world. In Jesus' name. Amen.
21then I will so order My blessing for you in the sixth year that it will bring forth the crop for three years.
22'When you are sowing the eighth year, you can still eat old things from the crop, eating the old until the ninth year when its crop comes in.
[O] Every seventh year is the year of sabbath where the land and the people rested, so on the sixth year, God brought forth the crop enough to last next three (6th, 7th, and 8th) years. It is indeed God who has the full control of growing all living things on earth. He can triple the growth for a season at his will. Not only that He plans for our future so we will not lack anything as long as we abide in His will out of obedience.
[A] Trusting God in all of my material needs is very easy in theory but most difficult in practice. When I've seen how each year's crop was enough to last until the following year's harvest how can I trust Him to provide for two additional years' worth of crop on the sixth year? It's not easy. Whenever I am struggling to understand how God can provide something beyond the natural phenomena I need to reflect on how God provided for His people during the sabbatical year.
[P] Dear Father, please increase my faith and trust in You so that when I'm up against situations where my kicks in to take control that I would surrender to You for Your provision which is out of this world. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Monday, February 14, 2011
Recommendations That Break My Heart
[S] Acts 21:4 --
4After looking up the disciples, we stayed there seven days; and they kept telling Paul through the Spirit not to set foot in Jerusalem.
13Then Paul answered, "What are you doing, weeping and breaking my heart? For I am ready not only to be bound, but even to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus." 14And since he would not be persuaded, we fell silent, remarking, "The will of the Lord be done!"
[O] Paul's disciples urged him to not enter Jerusalem and these weren't simply their own opinions but the conviction they received through the Spirit. As a leader Paul must've been struggling to discern because of their sincere recommendation in the Spirit. It is one thing to discern more of a self-centered comments but when you know your friends or brothers/sisters in Christ share their godly, prayerful, and genuine hearts it is a whole new story. In the midst of his torn heart, Paul proclaims his own convictions to which others "amens" and supports him wholeheartedly. Paul's conviction did not come overnight and he was well aware of what he was walking in to and yet trusted God's leadership completely. This must've shown through to others.
[A] What a model to follow after in living my own life -- filled with conviction to drive after a purposeful life much more than just passing through each day. Even through some tough decision-making moments, I need to have a clear purpose for my life so I can stay on track for what God had called me to carry out. This is particularly true these days as I ponder on how I have led my children thus far, whether I should have taken a different path or not. Instead of wavering with surrounding influences/suggestions, I want to stick to the conviction God has laid on my heart.
[P] Dear Jesus, once again Your perfect timing of guiding my heart through You word is so awesome. Paul's conviction seen through his own struggling moments before entering Jerusalem is so powerfully ministering to me this morning. Thank you for giving me this role model to follow after. I want to be moved by You and You alone to live out my purposeful life here on earth. In Your name. Amen.
4After looking up the disciples, we stayed there seven days; and they kept telling Paul through the Spirit not to set foot in Jerusalem.
13Then Paul answered, "What are you doing, weeping and breaking my heart? For I am ready not only to be bound, but even to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus." 14And since he would not be persuaded, we fell silent, remarking, "The will of the Lord be done!"
[O] Paul's disciples urged him to not enter Jerusalem and these weren't simply their own opinions but the conviction they received through the Spirit. As a leader Paul must've been struggling to discern because of their sincere recommendation in the Spirit. It is one thing to discern more of a self-centered comments but when you know your friends or brothers/sisters in Christ share their godly, prayerful, and genuine hearts it is a whole new story. In the midst of his torn heart, Paul proclaims his own convictions to which others "amens" and supports him wholeheartedly. Paul's conviction did not come overnight and he was well aware of what he was walking in to and yet trusted God's leadership completely. This must've shown through to others.
[A] What a model to follow after in living my own life -- filled with conviction to drive after a purposeful life much more than just passing through each day. Even through some tough decision-making moments, I need to have a clear purpose for my life so I can stay on track for what God had called me to carry out. This is particularly true these days as I ponder on how I have led my children thus far, whether I should have taken a different path or not. Instead of wavering with surrounding influences/suggestions, I want to stick to the conviction God has laid on my heart.
[P] Dear Jesus, once again Your perfect timing of guiding my heart through You word is so awesome. Paul's conviction seen through his own struggling moments before entering Jerusalem is so powerfully ministering to me this morning. Thank you for giving me this role model to follow after. I want to be moved by You and You alone to live out my purposeful life here on earth. In Your name. Amen.
Sunday, February 13, 2011
Fellowshiping Until Daybreak
[S] Acts 20:11-12 --
11When he had gone back up and had broken the bread and eaten, he talked with them a long while until daybreak, and then left. 12They took away the boy alive, and were greatly comforted
[O] Right after the young man, Eutychus, fell from third floor and died Paul went down and declared that he still had life in him (v.10) then he went back up to the upper room and spent the rest of the night fellowship and sharing with the people. There is something to be said about the people just hanging out to share about how good God is and how powerful He is without a sense of time passing. Verse 12's mentioning of the boy indeed being alive shows how they had the fullness of life in their midst. This is a model of Christian fellowship where God's life is displayed in the midst and "stickiness" of wanting to stay together.
[A] I need to figure out how I can replicate this in my own Christian fellowship. It's been a while since I had these all-night talks about how wonderful God is.
[P] Dear Father, please let me be around those who I can share such a time as Paul with the people in the Upper Room. I long for this type of a relationship and yet I seem to be alone at the end of the day. Please send around me the brother/sisters who may share lives closely because Your power and "liveliness" doesn't seem to end. In Jesus' name. Amen.
11When he had gone back up and had broken the bread and eaten, he talked with them a long while until daybreak, and then left. 12They took away the boy alive, and were greatly comforted
[O] Right after the young man, Eutychus, fell from third floor and died Paul went down and declared that he still had life in him (v.10) then he went back up to the upper room and spent the rest of the night fellowship and sharing with the people. There is something to be said about the people just hanging out to share about how good God is and how powerful He is without a sense of time passing. Verse 12's mentioning of the boy indeed being alive shows how they had the fullness of life in their midst. This is a model of Christian fellowship where God's life is displayed in the midst and "stickiness" of wanting to stay together.
[A] I need to figure out how I can replicate this in my own Christian fellowship. It's been a while since I had these all-night talks about how wonderful God is.
[P] Dear Father, please let me be around those who I can share such a time as Paul with the people in the Upper Room. I long for this type of a relationship and yet I seem to be alone at the end of the day. Please send around me the brother/sisters who may share lives closely because Your power and "liveliness" doesn't seem to end. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Saturday, February 12, 2011
But Who Are You?
[S] Acts 19:15 --
15And the evil spirit answered and said to them, "I recognize Jesus, and I know about Paul, but who are you?"
[O] At times my enemies seem to know more about myself than what I know about myself. In fact worst enemy is the one who is clueless about who they are up against. In the spiritual realm the evil spirits know who the Holy Spirit is very well and also can distinguish which spirit belongs to Jesus or not. So if I belong to Jesus then there really is nothing to fear about the evil spirit because they cannot even think about touching the people of God while those who do not belong to Jesus are at great risk of being attacked by the evil spirit. In this passage, the evil spirit identifies those who do not belong to God (but pretends to be) and so imitation Christians won't be left alone by the evil spirits.
[A] Be recognized by the evil spirit as the one belonging to Jesus; and even further as one like Paul who are boldly speaking out and teaching about Jesus to others.
[P] Dear Father, I want to carry the mark of Jesus in my life every moment. Please allow such a mark to be ingrained into my life such that even Satan would recognize me as of your child. In Jesus' name. Amen.
15And the evil spirit answered and said to them, "I recognize Jesus, and I know about Paul, but who are you?"
[O] At times my enemies seem to know more about myself than what I know about myself. In fact worst enemy is the one who is clueless about who they are up against. In the spiritual realm the evil spirits know who the Holy Spirit is very well and also can distinguish which spirit belongs to Jesus or not. So if I belong to Jesus then there really is nothing to fear about the evil spirit because they cannot even think about touching the people of God while those who do not belong to Jesus are at great risk of being attacked by the evil spirit. In this passage, the evil spirit identifies those who do not belong to God (but pretends to be) and so imitation Christians won't be left alone by the evil spirits.
[A] Be recognized by the evil spirit as the one belonging to Jesus; and even further as one like Paul who are boldly speaking out and teaching about Jesus to others.
[P] Dear Father, I want to carry the mark of Jesus in my life every moment. Please allow such a mark to be ingrained into my life such that even Satan would recognize me as of your child. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Friday, February 11, 2011
Don't Worry and Keep Speaking
[S] Acts 18: 9-11 --
9And the Lord said to Paul in the night by a vision, "Do not be afraid any longer, but go on speaking and do not be silent; 10for I am with you, and no man will attack you in order to harm you, for I have many people in this city." 11And he settled there a year and six months, teaching the word of God among them.
[O] One of the most discouraging moments in life is to find yourself all alone when you look around to see who else on your "team" is with you. Paul definitely wasn't alone physically but he may have well felt alone without having found a co-laborer with like-mindedness to share the the burdens of the ministry and that's where Jesus encourages him by telling him about how He has placed many people to collaborate in the ministry with. A year and half spanned from verse 9 to 10 and Paul must have connected with the other people Jesus mentioned in order to move forward with the ministry there in Corinth. Every time I read verse 9, I am so encouraged by His word because He seems to be talking to me as I take part in His ministry and at times feels a bit lonely and yet He always connects me with other Christ followers to collaborate with and take another step forward into the enemy's territory. I am going through that moment right now in the midst of the whirlwind of past 1.5 years into initiating the new small group ministry feeling a bit lost but hearing His voice of verse 10 and finding myself working closely with the brothers in the ministry directorship and other zone leadership.
[A] Be encouraged that God of the universe indeed knows exactly where I am and will be with me (as He promised) and continue to carry out the tasks for this ministry as He had convicted me (as Paul did in verse 11).
[P] Dear Jesus, Your word spoken to Paul is the source of my strength and I praise You for that. Forgive me for losing focus and shifting to moments of doubt. I want to totally trust in You especially in my "doubtful" moments. I am so overwhelmed by Your invitation into Your grace as I go through path. Thank You, Lord, as I pray in Your name. Amen.
9And the Lord said to Paul in the night by a vision, "Do not be afraid any longer, but go on speaking and do not be silent; 10for I am with you, and no man will attack you in order to harm you, for I have many people in this city." 11And he settled there a year and six months, teaching the word of God among them.
[O] One of the most discouraging moments in life is to find yourself all alone when you look around to see who else on your "team" is with you. Paul definitely wasn't alone physically but he may have well felt alone without having found a co-laborer with like-mindedness to share the the burdens of the ministry and that's where Jesus encourages him by telling him about how He has placed many people to collaborate in the ministry with. A year and half spanned from verse 9 to 10 and Paul must have connected with the other people Jesus mentioned in order to move forward with the ministry there in Corinth. Every time I read verse 9, I am so encouraged by His word because He seems to be talking to me as I take part in His ministry and at times feels a bit lonely and yet He always connects me with other Christ followers to collaborate with and take another step forward into the enemy's territory. I am going through that moment right now in the midst of the whirlwind of past 1.5 years into initiating the new small group ministry feeling a bit lost but hearing His voice of verse 10 and finding myself working closely with the brothers in the ministry directorship and other zone leadership.
[A] Be encouraged that God of the universe indeed knows exactly where I am and will be with me (as He promised) and continue to carry out the tasks for this ministry as He had convicted me (as Paul did in verse 11).
[P] Dear Jesus, Your word spoken to Paul is the source of my strength and I praise You for that. Forgive me for losing focus and shifting to moments of doubt. I want to totally trust in You especially in my "doubtful" moments. I am so overwhelmed by Your invitation into Your grace as I go through path. Thank You, Lord, as I pray in Your name. Amen.
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Thursday, February 10, 2011
Turning the World Upside Down
[S] Acts 17:6 --
6When they did not find them, they began dragging Jason and some brethren before the city authorities, shouting, "These men who have upset the world have come here also;
[O] The New King James Version states the above verse as, "These who have turned the world upside down" and that statement seems to describe how influential Jesus' disciples were spreading the news of the power of His suffering, death, and resurrection. I'm wondering how my life in the midst of the Christian community I belong to is affecting the world around me. I shouldn't be go looking for trouble (to be dragged out by upset people) but is my life making an impact for the non-believers? Am I too silent with the impacting good news of Jesus Christ? Just today, one of the co-worker who is a vegetarian mentioned that he was going to end his vegetarian this year because the end of the world may start next year and that means he may have to eat whatever necessary to survive so wants to prepare for those times. He said he was basing this on the Bible (Book of Revelation) and wants to prepare just in case it does come true. I do not believe this person is a follower of Christ and I was urged to say something then but did not because I wasn't sure what to say in that short moment. I'm definitely going to follow up prayerfully but based on today's verse I'm wondering if I was one of the men who have upset the world or just stayed too quiet to just hear about what the world is saying.
[A] Need to prepare my heart to speak the truth in a concise way in situations like these. It's all about presenting Jesus in the right situation with the right approach so it will effectively reach the hearts of those around me.
[P] Dear Father, I ask You to instill in me the wisdom and the heart of preparedness to speak the truth to those around me with boldness and confidence while reaching with Your love so they may hear and realize what they were missing in their lives to approach You. In Jesus' name. Amen.
6When they did not find them, they began dragging Jason and some brethren before the city authorities, shouting, "These men who have upset the world have come here also;
[O] The New King James Version states the above verse as, "These who have turned the world upside down" and that statement seems to describe how influential Jesus' disciples were spreading the news of the power of His suffering, death, and resurrection. I'm wondering how my life in the midst of the Christian community I belong to is affecting the world around me. I shouldn't be go looking for trouble (to be dragged out by upset people) but is my life making an impact for the non-believers? Am I too silent with the impacting good news of Jesus Christ? Just today, one of the co-worker who is a vegetarian mentioned that he was going to end his vegetarian this year because the end of the world may start next year and that means he may have to eat whatever necessary to survive so wants to prepare for those times. He said he was basing this on the Bible (Book of Revelation) and wants to prepare just in case it does come true. I do not believe this person is a follower of Christ and I was urged to say something then but did not because I wasn't sure what to say in that short moment. I'm definitely going to follow up prayerfully but based on today's verse I'm wondering if I was one of the men who have upset the world or just stayed too quiet to just hear about what the world is saying.
[A] Need to prepare my heart to speak the truth in a concise way in situations like these. It's all about presenting Jesus in the right situation with the right approach so it will effectively reach the hearts of those around me.
[P] Dear Father, I ask You to instill in me the wisdom and the heart of preparedness to speak the truth to those around me with boldness and confidence while reaching with Your love so they may hear and realize what they were missing in their lives to approach You. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Wednesday, February 09, 2011
Don't Play With Strange Fire
[S] Leviticus 10:1-2 --
1Now Nadab and Abihu, the sons of Aaron, took their respective firepans, and after putting fire in them, placed incense on it and offered strange fire before the LORD, which He had not commanded them. 2And fire came out from the presence of the LORD and consumed them, and they died before the LORD.
[O] While it is unclear what they were really doing but the "strange fire" was something that God had not commanded them to do in His presence and the consequence of not adhering to His holy presence was death in this case. It's like bringing a piece of paper near a burning fire -- it'll be consumed instantly. Bringing any unholiness near the "burning" presence of God's holiness will only bring instant consummation by His holiness. Nadab and Abihu disrespected this and they faced the consequence. Verses 9 and 10 hints the idea perhaps they were under influence of some strong drinks bringing before God profanity. God is holy and that attribute by nature cannot co-exist with anything unholy no matter what our intentions may be.
[A] At the end of the day, God will not accept or tolerate any unholiness in my heart when I come before Him. I am constantly pulled from my daily activities to be tainted by unholiness which can easily cause me to bring some strange offerings to God which He never commanded me to bring to Him. I need to be very sensitive about my thoughts and heart condition at all times. Through the Life Journaling my heart is drawing closer to Him by filling it up with His word daily but many challenges in my life currently just seems to deflate it just like a tire with a hole losing air faster than air pumped into it. I need to pray more to protect my heart as well as my wife's.
[P] Dear Father, as little as it may be my wife and I are trying our best to submit our hearts for your ministry and lately not only due to the ministry's challenges but just overall things in life are simply overwhelming. May we not fall by the forces that hit us but to stay firm in Your word through consistent prayer lives. I know You are with us just like how You had been with Your people through the history of seeing how You moved nations in Isaiah 41 and yet promised to be with Your people. I am trusting Your sovereignty and omnipotence in this world. In Jesus' name. Amen.
1Now Nadab and Abihu, the sons of Aaron, took their respective firepans, and after putting fire in them, placed incense on it and offered strange fire before the LORD, which He had not commanded them. 2And fire came out from the presence of the LORD and consumed them, and they died before the LORD.
[O] While it is unclear what they were really doing but the "strange fire" was something that God had not commanded them to do in His presence and the consequence of not adhering to His holy presence was death in this case. It's like bringing a piece of paper near a burning fire -- it'll be consumed instantly. Bringing any unholiness near the "burning" presence of God's holiness will only bring instant consummation by His holiness. Nadab and Abihu disrespected this and they faced the consequence. Verses 9 and 10 hints the idea perhaps they were under influence of some strong drinks bringing before God profanity. God is holy and that attribute by nature cannot co-exist with anything unholy no matter what our intentions may be.
[A] At the end of the day, God will not accept or tolerate any unholiness in my heart when I come before Him. I am constantly pulled from my daily activities to be tainted by unholiness which can easily cause me to bring some strange offerings to God which He never commanded me to bring to Him. I need to be very sensitive about my thoughts and heart condition at all times. Through the Life Journaling my heart is drawing closer to Him by filling it up with His word daily but many challenges in my life currently just seems to deflate it just like a tire with a hole losing air faster than air pumped into it. I need to pray more to protect my heart as well as my wife's.
[P] Dear Father, as little as it may be my wife and I are trying our best to submit our hearts for your ministry and lately not only due to the ministry's challenges but just overall things in life are simply overwhelming. May we not fall by the forces that hit us but to stay firm in Your word through consistent prayer lives. I know You are with us just like how You had been with Your people through the history of seeing how You moved nations in Isaiah 41 and yet promised to be with Your people. I am trusting Your sovereignty and omnipotence in this world. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Tuesday, February 08, 2011
Unwrapping From Man's Ways
[S] Acts 15:10-11 --
10"Now therefore why do you put God to the test by placing upon the neck of the disciples a yoke which neither our fathers nor we have been able to bear? 11"But we believe that we are saved through the grace of the Lord Jesus, in the same way as they also are."
[O] One of the most difficult aspects of following God is to distinguish the efforts of man (me) from God's working and here we see the people so wrapped up in Mosaic Law that they lost track of God's new and wonderful ministry to the Gentiles clouded by their own efforts. Peter responded to this type of reasoning by highlighting how salvation comes to us through the grace of Jesus before, now, and forever, to everyone and we should not get in the way of His plan of salvation . He even points out the fact that such a reasoning is actually putting God to the test.
[A] I am challenged by this scene to re-evaluate the direction of the small group ministry I'm leading at my church because I should not put forth the plans of man over God's greater overarching plan of salvation. I need to bring this topic to the Lord personally so He would convict me to follow His plans within the boundaries of the small group ministry.
[P] Dear Father, show me Your ways and not my or any other men's perspectives. I don't want to hinder Your plans and works of salvation through the grace of Jesus Christ. Please show me; I ask in Your nam. Amen.
10"Now therefore why do you put God to the test by placing upon the neck of the disciples a yoke which neither our fathers nor we have been able to bear? 11"But we believe that we are saved through the grace of the Lord Jesus, in the same way as they also are."
[O] One of the most difficult aspects of following God is to distinguish the efforts of man (me) from God's working and here we see the people so wrapped up in Mosaic Law that they lost track of God's new and wonderful ministry to the Gentiles clouded by their own efforts. Peter responded to this type of reasoning by highlighting how salvation comes to us through the grace of Jesus before, now, and forever, to everyone and we should not get in the way of His plan of salvation . He even points out the fact that such a reasoning is actually putting God to the test.
[A] I am challenged by this scene to re-evaluate the direction of the small group ministry I'm leading at my church because I should not put forth the plans of man over God's greater overarching plan of salvation. I need to bring this topic to the Lord personally so He would convict me to follow His plans within the boundaries of the small group ministry.
[P] Dear Father, show me Your ways and not my or any other men's perspectives. I don't want to hinder Your plans and works of salvation through the grace of Jesus Christ. Please show me; I ask in Your nam. Amen.
Monday, February 07, 2011
The Keeper of Fire
[S] Leviticus 6:13 --
13'Fire shall be kept burning continually on the altar; it is not to go out.
[O] There was a keeper of this fire so it won't go out. I usually glance over this verse because I'm thinking "someone must be doing this job" but today it dawned on me that this task involved more than just someone casually watching the fire. It needed coordination of shifts, focus of making sure it stays alive, and probably more than just taking this as a mere task but someone who understands the aspects of worshiping God through offerings. In God's ministry no tasks are more important than another because they all collaborate to bring a true worship to God.
[A] Homework is to find out how I may continue to encourage everyone to take part in our church's ministry by taking ownership of various tasks from vary basic and simple tasks to those requiring a lot of efforts and specialized skills, we're all doing this as a team to bring forth a wonderful worship to God.
[P] Dear God, in some sense keeping the fire going means to always keep God's presence alive in our midst. In this passage the fire was used to offer sacrifices, so I'm wondering what the "fire" equates to our church. Please give me the wisdom to know what that is so I can keep it going continually. In Jesus' name. Amen.
13'Fire shall be kept burning continually on the altar; it is not to go out.
[O] There was a keeper of this fire so it won't go out. I usually glance over this verse because I'm thinking "someone must be doing this job" but today it dawned on me that this task involved more than just someone casually watching the fire. It needed coordination of shifts, focus of making sure it stays alive, and probably more than just taking this as a mere task but someone who understands the aspects of worshiping God through offerings. In God's ministry no tasks are more important than another because they all collaborate to bring a true worship to God.
[A] Homework is to find out how I may continue to encourage everyone to take part in our church's ministry by taking ownership of various tasks from vary basic and simple tasks to those requiring a lot of efforts and specialized skills, we're all doing this as a team to bring forth a wonderful worship to God.
[P] Dear God, in some sense keeping the fire going means to always keep God's presence alive in our midst. In this passage the fire was used to offer sacrifices, so I'm wondering what the "fire" equates to our church. Please give me the wisdom to know what that is so I can keep it going continually. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Some Times Fast, Some Times Slow
[S] Acts 13:3,19 --
3Then, when they had fasted and prayed and laid their hands on them, they sent them away.
19"When He had destroyed seven nations in the land of Canaan, He distributed their land as an inheritance--all of which took about four hundred and fifty years.
[O] These two verses highlighted two contrasting views: 1) When I have God's conviction, I should not delay moving forward right away after fasting and praying; 2) Development of God's ministry from ground up requires time to mature. Both are participating in God's will and yet depending on the situation I need to discern to either do a 100m dash, or run a marathon.
[A] Some times I'm too cautious about moving forward with God's convictions. I do too much of a the Gideon's testing by looking from various angles to make sure. But seeing how the leaders from Acts I need to learn to fast, pray, bless (lay hands), and start (send) down the path of God's conviction with confidence. On the other hand, when the development of the ministry seems to take too long, remember that God let the Israelites 450 years to settle into the Promised Land which He had already allocated for His people to take over.
[P] Dear Father, please allow me wisdom to discern how I should act in my current ministry roles. At times I feel like I should move quickly with conviction; and yet at times I cannot see how we can cover so much in such a short duration. I need Your wisdom daily so I don't get stressed out too much so I ask for Your peaceful understanding of my circumstances better. In Jesus' name. Amen.
3Then, when they had fasted and prayed and laid their hands on them, they sent them away.
19"When He had destroyed seven nations in the land of Canaan, He distributed their land as an inheritance--all of which took about four hundred and fifty years.
[O] These two verses highlighted two contrasting views: 1) When I have God's conviction, I should not delay moving forward right away after fasting and praying; 2) Development of God's ministry from ground up requires time to mature. Both are participating in God's will and yet depending on the situation I need to discern to either do a 100m dash, or run a marathon.
[A] Some times I'm too cautious about moving forward with God's convictions. I do too much of a the Gideon's testing by looking from various angles to make sure. But seeing how the leaders from Acts I need to learn to fast, pray, bless (lay hands), and start (send) down the path of God's conviction with confidence. On the other hand, when the development of the ministry seems to take too long, remember that God let the Israelites 450 years to settle into the Promised Land which He had already allocated for His people to take over.
[P] Dear Father, please allow me wisdom to discern how I should act in my current ministry roles. At times I feel like I should move quickly with conviction; and yet at times I cannot see how we can cover so much in such a short duration. I need Your wisdom daily so I don't get stressed out too much so I ask for Your peaceful understanding of my circumstances better. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Labels:
Conviction,
Devotion,
Discernment,
Fasting,
Peace,
Prayer
Saturday, February 05, 2011
Struck by Angel
[S] Acts 12:23 --
23And immediately an angel of the Lord struck him because he did not give God the glory, and he was eaten by worms and died.
[O] This sounds like a scene out of a Hollywood movie and I cannot imagine what type of worms would eat a person but more so than those details God's striking Herod for not giving glory to Him moved me. One thing is clear: God does want my glorifying Him and He hates my pride which goes above God. He desires humble hearts who bring out God's glory not their own achievements.
[A] God doesn't mess around when my pride goes above God's position and my take away is to stay humble in all I do especially when my works are not recognized by others and feel like I'm nobody.
[P] Dear Father, I'm in awe by how You care so much for me to send me this message of warning against any area of my life which may boast too much of my own achievements. Please let me stay humble especially when I'm serving in Your ministry. In Jesus' name. Amen.
23And immediately an angel of the Lord struck him because he did not give God the glory, and he was eaten by worms and died.
[O] This sounds like a scene out of a Hollywood movie and I cannot imagine what type of worms would eat a person but more so than those details God's striking Herod for not giving glory to Him moved me. One thing is clear: God does want my glorifying Him and He hates my pride which goes above God. He desires humble hearts who bring out God's glory not their own achievements.
[A] God doesn't mess around when my pride goes above God's position and my take away is to stay humble in all I do especially when my works are not recognized by others and feel like I'm nobody.
[P] Dear Father, I'm in awe by how You care so much for me to send me this message of warning against any area of my life which may boast too much of my own achievements. Please let me stay humble especially when I'm serving in Your ministry. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Friday, February 04, 2011
Simple is Wisdom
[S] Psalm 19:7--
7The law of the LORD is perfect, restoring the soul;
The testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple.
[O] God's law is not only perfect and flawless but it also carries the power of restoring souls and it also makes the wise to be simple. Why is that what I do always gets so complicated no matter how much wisdom I want to apply? In contrast, God's wisdom is simple and uncluttering because it centers around letting God work through my life rather than trying to make something out of it on my own. Acts 11:21 -- And the hand of the Lord was with them, and a large number who believed turned to the Lord -- describes how Peter simplified those, who are circumcised, who made things all too complicated about following Christ.
[A] I need to catch myself whenever I make living out a Christ-following life too complicated and seek His wisdom which makes my mind simple. I'm realizing that when I am defending what I'm doing, then it's already gotten too complicated.
[P] Dear Father, may Your law infiltrate my mind so it will stay simple and fresh to live for You and to surrender my life so Your hand will work through me. In Jesus' name. Amen.
7The law of the LORD is perfect, restoring the soul;
The testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple.
[O] God's law is not only perfect and flawless but it also carries the power of restoring souls and it also makes the wise to be simple. Why is that what I do always gets so complicated no matter how much wisdom I want to apply? In contrast, God's wisdom is simple and uncluttering because it centers around letting God work through my life rather than trying to make something out of it on my own. Acts 11:21 -- And the hand of the Lord was with them, and a large number who believed turned to the Lord -- describes how Peter simplified those, who are circumcised, who made things all too complicated about following Christ.
[A] I need to catch myself whenever I make living out a Christ-following life too complicated and seek His wisdom which makes my mind simple. I'm realizing that when I am defending what I'm doing, then it's already gotten too complicated.
[P] Dear Father, may Your law infiltrate my mind so it will stay simple and fresh to live for You and to surrender my life so Your hand will work through me. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Thursday, February 03, 2011
Moved Heart Leads to Freewill Offering
[S] Exodus 35:29 --
29The Israelites, all the men and women, whose heart moved them to bring material for all the work, which the LORD had commanded through Moses to be done, brought a freewill offering to the LORD.
[O] Before our actions, our hearts must be moved first because that is what is going to motivate right actions. Israelites were moved by the awesomeness of God's presence architecting and orchestrating the building of the beautiful Tabernacle. It must've been something like entering an awesome cathedral and looking up into the high ceiling and the echoing sound of choir singing in the background. They were moved and out of that came a freewill offering to the LORD. Everyone chose freely to bring their offerings to God.
[A] As we take part in God's ministry, we need to remember that the presence of God must stir the people's hearts first before trying to "run" church programs.
[P] Dear God, please use my meager efforts in Your ministry to move the people's hearts towards You. May Your Spirit motivate the people to freely offer their lives precious aspects to You. In Jesus' name. Amen.
29The Israelites, all the men and women, whose heart moved them to bring material for all the work, which the LORD had commanded through Moses to be done, brought a freewill offering to the LORD.
[O] Before our actions, our hearts must be moved first because that is what is going to motivate right actions. Israelites were moved by the awesomeness of God's presence architecting and orchestrating the building of the beautiful Tabernacle. It must've been something like entering an awesome cathedral and looking up into the high ceiling and the echoing sound of choir singing in the background. They were moved and out of that came a freewill offering to the LORD. Everyone chose freely to bring their offerings to God.
[A] As we take part in God's ministry, we need to remember that the presence of God must stir the people's hearts first before trying to "run" church programs.
[P] Dear God, please use my meager efforts in Your ministry to move the people's hearts towards You. May Your Spirit motivate the people to freely offer their lives precious aspects to You. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Wednesday, February 02, 2011
Don't Want To Go If You're Not There
[S] Exodus 33:15-16 --
15Then he said to Him, "If Your presence does not go with us, do not lead us up from here. 16"For how then can it be known that I have found favor in Your sight, I and Your people? Is it not by Your going with us, so that we, I and Your people, may be distinguished from all the other people who are upon the face of the earth?"
[O] Moses is almost nagging God here so He will accompany the journey; otherwise don't even think about leading us forward. The golden calf, shattering of the Ten Commandments tablets, and slaying of the thousands must have worn Moses down and came to a point of realizing he cannot do this alone without God. So his decision of not taking a step further without God's presence was a worthy one. This is not just to cover his behind but he desired for the people to know that he had found favor in His sight; and further, his people recognizing that and follow him in this journey will set apart the whole Israelites from the rest of the population on earth because they've been set apart (holy) to display God's glory.
[A] This is going to be my motto: I don't want to go if You're not there, Lord. I surrender my own strength and plans to You so Your plans will shine through my life. As God put me in the leadership positions in ministries, I will not lose focus of letting other recognize that I've found favor in God and that would be the inertia of my leadership.
[P] Dear Father, I'm so grateful for choosing a person like me to lead some of Your people here on earth. I won't take another step if Your presence is not with me. I am going to almost demand that You go with me cuz I don't want to go there if You're not there as the song I sang for You before and I want to make that my life's principle. Please hear my prayer as I ask in Your name. Amen.
15Then he said to Him, "If Your presence does not go with us, do not lead us up from here. 16"For how then can it be known that I have found favor in Your sight, I and Your people? Is it not by Your going with us, so that we, I and Your people, may be distinguished from all the other people who are upon the face of the earth?"
[O] Moses is almost nagging God here so He will accompany the journey; otherwise don't even think about leading us forward. The golden calf, shattering of the Ten Commandments tablets, and slaying of the thousands must have worn Moses down and came to a point of realizing he cannot do this alone without God. So his decision of not taking a step further without God's presence was a worthy one. This is not just to cover his behind but he desired for the people to know that he had found favor in His sight; and further, his people recognizing that and follow him in this journey will set apart the whole Israelites from the rest of the population on earth because they've been set apart (holy) to display God's glory.
[A] This is going to be my motto: I don't want to go if You're not there, Lord. I surrender my own strength and plans to You so Your plans will shine through my life. As God put me in the leadership positions in ministries, I will not lose focus of letting other recognize that I've found favor in God and that would be the inertia of my leadership.
[P] Dear Father, I'm so grateful for choosing a person like me to lead some of Your people here on earth. I won't take another step if Your presence is not with me. I am going to almost demand that You go with me cuz I don't want to go there if You're not there as the song I sang for You before and I want to make that my life's principle. Please hear my prayer as I ask in Your name. Amen.
Tuesday, February 01, 2011
Finding the Bedrock of Leadership
[S] Exodus 32:2 --
2Aaron said to them, "Tear off the gold rings which are in the ears of your wives, your sons, and your daughters, and bring them to me."
[O] The power of the people was at work here when they protested to Aaron, he seemed to have simply gave in and came up with this idea of the golden calf to appease the people. If I were in his shoes, it would've been very difficult to stand up against the mod and practically speaking my own doubts would've increased also about what happened to Moses (over 40 days). In the leadership position, I can be pressured to respond to the people's suggestions or complaints out of my own thinking rather than sticking to the principles.
[A] As I am getting more involved with the ministry while waiting for more leaders to step up, better care for the existing leaders, training materials to prepare, and some fires to put out, I can easily be like Aaron in making my own responses to relieve pressure of the people. I have to be grounded in God's word daily and pray continuously while being grateful for all that I have in order not to fall into the gold calf traps.
[P] Dear Father, I am crying out to You for allowing me to enter deeper into Your grace during some of these challenging circumstances. I am so thankful for allowing this opportunity for my heart to be molded by You even more to take on the shape You desire from me. In Jesus' name. Amen.
2Aaron said to them, "Tear off the gold rings which are in the ears of your wives, your sons, and your daughters, and bring them to me."
[O] The power of the people was at work here when they protested to Aaron, he seemed to have simply gave in and came up with this idea of the golden calf to appease the people. If I were in his shoes, it would've been very difficult to stand up against the mod and practically speaking my own doubts would've increased also about what happened to Moses (over 40 days). In the leadership position, I can be pressured to respond to the people's suggestions or complaints out of my own thinking rather than sticking to the principles.
[A] As I am getting more involved with the ministry while waiting for more leaders to step up, better care for the existing leaders, training materials to prepare, and some fires to put out, I can easily be like Aaron in making my own responses to relieve pressure of the people. I have to be grounded in God's word daily and pray continuously while being grateful for all that I have in order not to fall into the gold calf traps.
[P] Dear Father, I am crying out to You for allowing me to enter deeper into Your grace during some of these challenging circumstances. I am so thankful for allowing this opportunity for my heart to be molded by You even more to take on the shape You desire from me. In Jesus' name. Amen.
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