Meditation

04/30/2024

“I robbed other churches by receiving support from them so as to serve you. And when I was with you and needed something, I was not a burden to anyone, for the brothers who came from Macedonia supplied what I needed. I have kept myself from being a burden to you in any way, and will continue to do so. As surely as the truth of Christ is in me, nobody in the regions of Achaia will stop this boasting of mine. Why? Because I do not love you? God knows I am do! And I will keep on doing what I am doing in order to cut the ground from under those who want an opportunity to be considered equal with us in the things they boast about. For such men are false apostles, deceitful workmen, masqueralding as apostles of Christ. An no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light. It is not surprising, then, if his servants masquerade as servants of righteousness. They end will be what their actions deserve. I repeat: Let no one take me for a fool. But if you do, then received me just as you would a fool, so that I may do a little boasting.” (2nd Corinthians 11: 8-16)

In Old Testament life, the Temple tithe and offerings primarily supported the Levites or priests (Numbers 18:2-24; Ezekiel 44:28-30). Both Christ and Paul affirmed that supporting God called ministers is the duty of the Christian Church. Paul was anxious to assure the Corinthians that he was not after their money but desired that they know Christ. Paul apologized for permitting them to be “inferior” to other churches by not supporting his ministry His self-support was for their good and was not an example to be followed in all churches. False apostles preach a different gospel (13:4) based on human achievement. They demand payment for their services. They boast in their status and claim a superiority over their fellow Christians. They seek their own success and win influence over Christians by treachery and deceit. The church needs leaders who serve the church by proclaiming the lordship of Christ. As for Satan being deceptive, it has been long known that he would take the form of an angel to deceive people. Only spiritual maturity and insight can protect us form the master of deceit. He uses people in church offices to deceive God’s people. Paul knew false apostles who misled the churches he worked with. Such agency or instruments of Satan have no part in Christian hope (See Ephesians 6:10-20: ‘follower of Christ must struggle with superhuman forms of evil, including Satan. God’s spiritual armor will help the followers in these in these struggles. The enemy causing the evil we face is not a human force we have a change to defeat in our own power. The enemy is an evil spiritual force led by Satan. The enemy includes rulers and authorities, angelic forces created by God through Christ who have reelled against God and exercise temporary power in our universe. Powers my be pagan gods connected with Sin worship. Evil is not a problem limited to life on earth. Spiritual forces represent Satan’s followers who oppose God on His heavenly territory. The Bible assures us God’s victory is guaranteed!

PRAYER FOR THE DAY:

Dear Abba, today’s focus is upon the question: “How Valuable is Supporting Ministry?” This question is not to be taken lightly. Satan and his minions strive every single day to change or modify what we as Christians seek to profess at all times and with all people. Their evil is like a plague and we must be vigilent in our pursuit to dispel it when found in our midst. Today, bless all those who are hurting in body, mind, or spirit, that they might set aside their issues and let You deal with them on their behalf, and accept their humble repentance of their sins Abba. For those in conflicts around the world, especially in the Middle East, with wars and natural disasters, pour out an anointing upon them all, that they too, might feel You near them and take comfort in that knowledge. Amen

THOUGHT OF THE DAY:

“Forgive your enemies….nothing, and I mean nothing annoys them more!”

KNOWING GOD:

“I rejoice greatly in the Lord that at last you have renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you have been concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength. Yes is was good of you to share in my troubles. Moreover, as you Philippians know, in the early days of your aquaintance with the gospel, when I set out from Macedonia, not one church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving, except you only; for even when I was in Thessalonica, you sent me aid again and again when I was in need. Not that I am looking or a gift, but I am looking for what may be credited to your account. I have received full payment and even more; I am amply supplied, not that I have received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent . They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God. And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus. To our God and Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen.” (Philippians 4: 10-20)

Paul’s letter to the Philippian Church was a way for him to show appreciation for their faithfulness in sending him gifts, to help him further his ministry. Always remember that being a disciple of Christ does not depend on our situation. Material resources do not provide the power a disciple needs. Only Christ Jesus can provide the strength needed to do everything God wants done. Paul was able to face all kinds of ciricumstances with contentment because he expected Christ to provide the strength required. Such a strong faith qualifies a disciple for bigger and more difficult tasks. As noted, Paul very graciously acknowledged the Philippians gifts given to help in his ministry. He demonstrated the minister’s responsibility to be satisified in ministy an don’t become a burden to the church. He also demonstrated that the church benefits by financially supporting the minister. I think Paul was proud of the church that he started in Philippi understands that he will and does have needs, and that they remember him fondly and send to him financial help and also at times material things that he could use as he continues his ministry to the Gentiles.

SECOND THOUGHT OF THE DAY:

“For the Scripture says, ‘Do not muzzle the ox while it is treading out the grain,’ and ‘The worker deserves his wages.’” (1st Timothy 5: 18)

Paul tried very hard not to burden churches financially and so supported himself as far as possible. He set an example for bi-vocational ministers. He did not set up his example as the only right one. He encouraed churches to provide the necessary resources for church leaders so they could be as productive as possible. Churches should make a similar effort to provide for the physical needs of their leaders, and include their own missionary people who carry the “Good News” out and into the world to share Jesus and the Father to all.

Meditation

04/29/2024

“With all my resources I have provided for the temple of my God—-Gold for the gold work, silver for the silver, bronze for the bronze, iron for the iron and wood for the wood, as well as onyx for the settings, turquoise, stones of various colors, and all kinds of large quantities. Besides, in my devotion to the temple of my God I now give my personal treasures of gold and silver for the temple of my God, over and above everything I have provided for this holy temple: three thousand talents of gold (gold of Ophir) and seven thousand talents of refined silver, for the overlaying of the walls of the buildings, for the gold work and the silver work, and for all the works to be done by the craftsmen. Now, who is willing to consecrate himself today to the Lord?” (1st Chronicles 29: 2-5)

This is a bold statement by King David, and his actions here motivated the peop to both accept Solomon as God’s chosen to build the Temple in Jerusalem. David had dreamed of doing this for God, but was denied as he had become a warrior and had shed blood. Instead, God chose Solomon, David’s son, to have the honor of building the Temple. So David had turned over his plans for the Temple, and then as a true leader, chose to give an enormous amount of gold and silver, bronze for bronze, iron for the iron and wood for the wood, as well as onyx for the settings, turquoise, stones of a variety of colors in large quantities. He further delivered up to reflect his devotion to God his own gold and refined silver for the overlaying of the walls of the buildings, for the gold and silver work and for all the works to be done by the craftsmen. Finally, he asked who else is willing to consecrate themselves to the Lord. In essence, he was asking others to step forward and donate whatever they had to the project, just as he himself had done.

PRAYER FOR THE DAY:

Dear Abba, today’s focus is upon the question: “Who Else is Willing to consecrate themselves today to the Lord?” David did what good leaders do, he stepped up and donated materials, precious gold and silver, and onyx, jewelry stones, along with his own personal wealth of gold and silver. The next step is to challenge the people to do the same thing for themselves. Not everyone could give what David did, but that did not mean that men of wealth is a variety of ways, could step up as he did and that, they did. The temple was to be where the Ark of the Covenant would reside. It would become a “footstool” for God, and it would be a magnificent structure dedicated to worship and learning would reside then, as well as in the future. It was to be a structure of enormous size and opulence, and honor to the One True God. Today, bless all those who are hurting in body, mind, or spirit, that they might set aside their issues and let You deal with them on their behalf, and accept their humble repentance of their sins Abba. For those in conflicts around the world, especially in the Middle East, with wars and natural disasters, pour out an anointing upon them all, that they too, might feel You near them and take comfort in that knowledge. Amen

THOUGHT OF THE DAY:

“All TV is educational. Are your children learning profanity, violence or fornication?”

KNOWING GOD:

“We assume the responsibility for carrying out the commands to give a third of a shekel each year for the service of the house of our God.” (Nehemiah 10:32)

Nehemiah taught that faithfulness to family is subordinate to faithfulness to God, and he openly condemned Judean men who risked their allegiance to God by marrying women who worshiped other gods. Marriage should strengthen faith, not test it. Our offerings represents one way God’s people can serve Him. A commitment to regular offerings is part of being God’s people. Such offerings supply the materials used in worship and the physical needs of God’s ministers.

SECOND THOUGHT OF THE DAY:

“While he was at Bethany, reclining at the table in the home of a man known as Simon the Leper, a woman came with an alabaster jar of very expensive perfume, made of pure nard. She broke the jar and poured the perfume on his head. Some of those present were saying indignantly to one another, ‘Why this waste of perfume? It could have been sold for more than a year’s wages and the money given to the poor.’ And they rebuked her harshly. ‘Leave her along,’ said Jesus. ‘Why are you bothering her? She has done a beautiful thing to me. The poor you will always have with you, and you can help them any time you want. But you will not always have me. She did what she could. She poured perfume on my body beforehand to prepare for my burial. I tell you the truth, wherever the gospel is preached throughout the world, what she has done will also be told, in member of her.’” (Mark 14: 3-9)

Beloved to honor Christ is not wasteful. Extravagent tribute to the King has its eternal reward. Jesus accepted the woman’s tribute as proper preparation for His coming death and burial. Stewardship involves sensitivity concerning when to use resources, and inner freedom to act extravagantly at the proper time. Jesus appreciated the woman’s beautiful, extravagant gift because it showed her sensitivity to Him as He faced the cross. His disciples seem to have had good intentions but they lacked sensitivity.

Meditation

04/26/2024

“A generous man will himself be blessed, for he shares his food with the poor.” (Proverbs 22: 9)

The caring person who enjoys helpng others receives blessings abundantly. Jesus taught that giving brings the reward of toward blessings. Stewardship involves more than regular gifts to God’s work. It also involves a caring attitude that leads to caring actions for people in need.

PRAYER FOR THE DAY:

Dear Abba, today’s focus is upon the question: “How Important Is Care of the Needy? It is the cornerstone of what Jesus did on this earth. God had always taken care of His people, but this is going beyond that aspect, and making a change on us as individuals and how we interact with those in need. Jesus always said we would always have the poor and needy among us, which is true, but it is not enough to recognize that we have people in need in obvious and not so obvious places, and then what are we to do about their situation. Are we to simply say, “Well, we have always had people in need and forget them?” I don’t think so. It is our responsibility to help them as best as we can. I have often carried with me sacks of things, maybe coupons for fast food restaurants, and a couple of dollars, some water, and maybe some crackers and occasionally a sandwich, along with a scripture that I felt moved to put in the bags. I hand them out at intersections, along with a verbal blessing. I have had people riding with me say, “You know they will trade them for something else, maybe alcohol or drugs. My answer is always the same. They may do just that, but as a Christian I am compelled to give them what I have. If they choose to do something else with it, that is their decision, mine is to simply respond to their need. I am not responsible for what they do with it when it is in their hands. Today, bless all those who are hurting in body, mind, and/or spirit, that they might set aside their issues and let You deal with them on their behalf, and accept their humble repentance of their sins Abba. For those in conflicts around the world, especially in the Middle East, with wars and natural disasters, pour out an anointing upon them all, that they too, might feel You near them and take comfort in that knowledge. Amen

THOUGHT OF THE DAY:

“Knowledge is proud; wisdom is humble.”

KNOWING GOD:

“After an absence of several years, I came to Jerusalem to bring my people gifts for the poor and to present offerings.” (Acts 24:17)

The Great Jerusalem offering was important in Paul’s ministry. It provides scriptural material for Christians’ understanding of stewardship and giving. Christians everywhere should respond to needs among suffering Christians.

SECOND THOUGHT OF THE DAY:

“Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you.” (Matthew 5: 42)

The Christian cannot ignore human need or refuse to help the needy. Whether we have sufficient resources or not, we help because we love Christ. We measure out giving by Christ, who gave everything, rather than by law or percentages. Thus, Christian stewards cannot turn away from people seeking help. The moment you turn away from the needy, you will regret your inaction immediately. It is because you are committed to striving to be like Christ, and when this becomes a part of who you are, you cannot turn away. You give until you have nothing left at all, as Christ did for us on the Cross.

Meditation

04/25/2024

“But a widow has children or grandchildren, these should learn first of all to put their religion into practice by caring for their own family and so repaying their parents and grandparents, for this is pleasing to God If anyone does not provide for his relatives and especially for his immediate family, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever” (1st Timothy 5: 4, 8)

Biblical faith places a high priority on the family. Meeting the physical needs of one’s family is a part of Christian stewardship. Christians should manage personal resources in a responsible way to care for family needs. To fail to fulfill family responsibilities is sin, making one as untrue to the commitment of faith in Christ. Even non-believers provide necessities of life for their families.

PRAYER FOR THE DAY:

Dear Abba, today’s focus is upon the question: “How Important Is It to Take Care of Family?? It is and always has been very important for families to take care of one another. It is especially true that as parents and grandparents age, that responsibility increase. It is considered a sin to ignore family needs. Always remember that when you were young, it was your parents and grandparents that shared with you, that they were patient with you, that they loved you and taught you how to love others. Today, bless all those who are hurting in body, mind, and/or spirit, that they might set aside their issues and let You deal with them on their behalf, and accept their humble repentance of their sins Abba. For those in conflicts around the world, especially in the Middle East, with wars and natural disasters, pour out an anointing upon them all, that they too, might feel You near them and take comfort in that knowledge. Amen

THOUGHT OF THE DAY:

“Being a servant is a free choice that not all are willing to accept. Will you?”

KNOWING GOD:

“The Pharisees and all the Jews do not eat unless they give their hands a ceremonial washing, holding to the tradition of the elders. When they come from the marketplace they do not eat unless they wash. And they observe many other traditions, such as the washing of cups, pitchers, and kettles. The Pharisees and teachers of the law asked Jesus, ‘Why don’t your disciples live according to the tradition of the elders instead of eating their food with unclean hands?’ He replied, ‘Isaiah was right when he prophesied about you hypocrites; as it is written: ‘These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. They worship me in vain; their teachings are but rules taught by men.’ You have let go of the commands of God and are holding on to the traditions of men.’” (Mark 3-5, 8-13)

True understanding and commitment to God’s word brings outward and inward change. Jesus was dismayed and angered that the religious people pretended with outward gestures to believe God but showed no change of heart so that love and forgiveness did not live in them. They pretended to be converted with outward signs only. Pleasing other people by obeying human rites and rules does not please God. Providing for the physical needs of one’s family is as important a part of Christian stewardship.

SECOND THOUGHT OF THE DAY:

“When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, ‘Simon son of John, do you truly love me more than these? ‘Yes, Lord,’ he said, ‘you know that I love you.’ Jesus said, ‘Feed my lambs.’ Again Jesus said, ‘Simon son of John, do you truly love me?’ He answered, ‘Yes, Lord, you know that I love you.’ Jesus said, ‘Take care of my sheep.’ The third time he said to him, ‘Simon son of John, do you love me?’ Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, ‘Do you love me?’ He said, ‘Lord, you know all things; you know that I love ou.’ Jesus said, ‘Feed my sheep. I tell you the truth, when you were younger you dressed yourself and went where you wanted; but when you are old you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will dress you and lead you where you do not want to go.’ Jesus said this to indicated the kind of death by which Peter would glorify God. Then he said to him, ‘Follow me!’Take care of my sheep.” (John 21: 15-18)

Being a follower of Jesus Christ has only one requirement. We may be followers of Christ if we love Jesus so deeply we are willing to do what He asks. Each time Simon Peter answered Jesus’ question concerning loving Him, the Lord gave him a task to do. When Peter asked what John was to do, Jesus said that should not concern Peter. Love for Jesus leads us to serve other people. Every disciple has a task. My primary concern is to do the task the Lord has given to us because we love Him. The Lord will give others whatever assignment pleases Him. In other words, we don’t need to concern ourselves with what other people are doing, we are to focus on what He has each one of us doing, that matters in the overall plan. Crystal clear???

Meditation

04/24/2024

“Elijah said to her, ‘Don’t be afraid. Go home and as you have said. But first make a small cake of bread for me from what you have and bring it to me, and then make something for yourself and your son. Go for this is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says: ‘The jar of flour will not be used up and the jug of oil will not run dry until the day the Lord gives rain on the land.’” (1st Kings 17: 13-14)

Elijah campaigned against the god Baal (the possessor), as the land was under a severe drought and many thought it was Baal that was holding the weather back, but it was actually Almighty God, who was proving His power over Baal. God had told Elijah to move from where he was to a hidden place that had a brook, and ravens brought him meat and bread twice daily, and he drank from the brook. The brook dried up and God sent him to a woman in Zarephath, where she would give him water to drink and make him a meal. Upon the outskirts of Zarephath, he encountered a widow woman gathering sticks. He asked her for a drink of water and as she turned to get the water, he further asked if she would make him a piece of bread. She said, “Sir I don’t have any bread—-only a handful of flour in a jar and a little oil in a jug. I am gathering a few sticks to take home and make a meal for myself and my son, that we may eat it—-and die.” Elijah said to her, Don’t be afraid. Go home and do what I asked, but first make me a small cake of bread for me from what you have . She did as asked and then told her to go and make her and her son something to eat. For this is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says: “The jar of flour will not be used up and the jug of oil will not run dry until the day the Lord gives rain on the land.”

PRAYER FOR THE DAY:

Dear Abba, today’s focus is upon the question: “What is the Benefit of Generosity? Towards Others?” In the story above, the widow encountered Elijah as she was preparing to use what little food she had left for her and her son. Elijah asked her to make him a cake, which would take away the remainder of her little ingredients. Because of her obedience to a Man of God, she willingly did as told. I suspect when she went back to her house, both the jar and jug were filled to the top. Furthermore, every time she took out a portion, the containers remained full. Elijah stayed with her for time, and they ate their fill every day, because of her obedience to God through Elijah. The lesson is of course, for those faithful and obedient to God, and others followed suit, they were able to stay alive until the rains returned. Today, bless all those who are hurting in body, mind, and/or spirit, that they might set aside their issues and let You deal with them on their behalf, and accept their humble repentance of their sins Abba. For those in conflicts around the world, especially in the Middle East, with wars and natural disasters, pour out an anointing upon them all, that they too, might feel You near them and take comfort in that knowledge. Amen

THOUGHT OF THE DAY:

“Be content with Whose you are, but never with who you can become.”

KNOWING GOD:

“Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—-this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—-his good, pleasing and perfect will. For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with the measure of faith God has given you. Just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. If a man’s gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his faith. If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach; if it is encouraging let him encourage; if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously; if it is leadership, let him govern dilligently; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully.” (Romans 12-1-8)

These verses are among my favorites, though it does not include women, for the times were much different then. Thankfully, we have moved passed those limitations and now include women in all of the above gifts. After all Christian stewardship means sacrificing our lives as acts of worship to God. Time, energy, and resources cannot be divided between God’s percent and my percent. God owns all. He gave us all we have. We are to use all we have and are, for Him in His work. We are to determine the gifts(s) God has given us and use them, confident God will bless our efforts in His way. One gift is the ability to contribute to the needs of others. We should use this gift to be generous with our resources to help those who have no resources. In a word, it’s about resources; some have a lot, some have some, and some have nothing. This means in Christian love and mercy, we ought to share with others. We are to use our gifts to be generous with our resources to help those who have none. In a term, it is called “Sacrificial Giving.”

SECOND THOUGHT OF THE DAY:

“Miracles were not automatic windows into the nature of Christ. He would not perform miracles on demand (See note on 4:1-11).” He pointed only to Jonah, His call to repent, and His approaching death and resurrection. Some of the Pharisees and teacher of he law said to him, ‘Teacher, we want to see a miraculous sign from you.’ This request for a sign (Greek – semion) introduces a new concept. The religious leaders could neither understand nor accept the idea that compassion motivated a miracle-worker. They revealed their own lack of faith by asking that a sign be performed. They wanted indisputable evidence Jesus was Messiah, as if they had not witnessed enough “signs”! Jesus pointed them to His death and resurrection to prove His identity. Jesus did not perform miracles in order to advertise His ministry! He condemned the religious leaders, contrasting them with the citizens of Nineveh and the Queen of the South who had responded in faith to manifest actions of God. Miracles are not signs that convince all people. They offer encouragement to people in need and people in faith. They do not solve all earthly problems. They point to eternal hope beyond death. They call on us to repent rather than to volunteer for power positions. In truth, Jesus fulfilled Scripture as proof He was Messiah. His Jewish opponents demanded more convincing proof—-miracles. Jesus pointed to the sign of Jonah. Here Jesus did not specifically mention resurrection, but certainly Christians are expected to understand the sign of Jonah as pointing to Christ’s resurrection. This sign should lead people to repentance, as did Jonah’s reluctant preaching. However, the Pharisees did not regard Jesus’ resurrection as a sign that was “powerful enough!” So how about you?” (Matthew 12: 41-44)

Jesus condemned the contemptuous dare of the Jewish leaders to establish His credentials by their conditions. They never found enough proof that Jesus was Messiah, and for all intentions, they never would. They were more concerned with the simple fact that Jesus’ had called them out into the open for desiring to be highly respected, being given the best seats and feasts and banquets, that they were considered as “untouchable” while Jesus pointed at them and challenged them in every way. He was making them look weak and ineffective. They tried every manner of trickery to trip Him up, only to have Him turn the tables on them. In response to some of their questioning, He would respond by saying, God said in this book or chapter of Scripture, as if they had never read it before. He even used them as a example, when a sinner who was too ashamed to pray for Himself would stay on a lower step and ask God to forgive him, a sinner. While the Priests would stand on the top step and thank God they were not as bad as the man praying below them, for they liked to say long prayers and make themselves look for religious than others, while they looked foolish by their antics to destroy the One who had come to teach about God and the need to follow His commandments. The Son of God was spit upon, beaten, tortured and all for the sins of ours. Prayer seeks to further God’s work, not make selfish demands on God. Are you willing to make a commitment to Jesus as the Son of God, God’s Promised Messiah?

Meditation

04/23/2024

“For the Lord your God is bringing you into a good land—-a land with streams and pools of water, with springs flowing in the valleys and hills; a land with wheat and barley, vines and fig trees, pomegranates, olive oil and honey; a land where bread will not be scarce and you will lack nothing; a land where the rocks are iron and you can dig copper out of the hills. When you have eaten and are satisfied, praise the Lord your God for the good land he has given you. Be careful that you do not forget the Lord your God, failing to observe his commands, his laws and his decrees that I am giving you this day. Otherwise, when you eat and are satisfied, when you build fine houses and settle down, and when your herds and flocks grow large and your silver and gold increase and all you have is multiplied, then your heart will become proud and you will forget the Lord your God, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery. But remember the Lord your God, for it is he who gives you the ability to produce wealth, and so confirms his covenant, which he swore to your forefathers, as it is today.” (Deuteronomy 8: 7-9 10-14, 18)

Material items that God intends to be good can be misused by people and lead us away from God. Remembering God in times of prosperity can be difficult. Abundance is truly a blessing when one remembers who gives it and when we use it to achieve God’s purposes. God made material things to serve Human needs and to bring glory to God. Both purposes are achieved when Christian use their God-given possessions for care of family (See note on 1st Timothy5:4, 8), giving to needy (See note on 1st John 3:17), service to God (See note on Matthew 25:31-46), and support of the ministry (See note on 2nd Corinthians 11:8-16). In times of prosperity, believers should remember God is the source of all blessings. We receive gifts because of God’s goodness, not because of our education, intellect, or hard work. Education and hard work can develop the gifts God gives. The blessings of life confirm the covenant relationship God has established and kept.

PRAYER FOR THE DAY:

Dear Abba, today’s focus is upon the question: “What is a Purpose of Possessions as part of Stewardship as Covenant People?” There is nothing wrong in enjoying prosperous times, as long as we all remember to set aside for those who struggle to find enough food to eat, who are out of work, who may have lost their housing, etc., and of course remember them when you give your tithe to the church, to help people as part of the Saint Richards Mission in our community. Today, bless all those who are hurting in body, mind, and/or spirit, that they might set aside their issues and let You deal with them on their behalf, and accept their humble repentance of their sins Abba. For those in conflicts around the world, especially in the Middle East, with wars and natural disasters, pour out an anointing upon them all, that they too, might feel You near them and take comfort in that knowledge. Amen

THOUGHT OF THE DAY:

“By our accepting God through Christ Jesus, we are also agreeing to be what we will be when Christ returns.”

KNOWING GOD:

“For by him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things were created by him and for him. He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. And he is the head of the body, the church; he is the beginning and the firstborn from among the dead, so that in everything he might have the supremacy.” (Colossians 1-16-18)

Christ is the source of creation and the power that sustains it. Christ is the source of creation and the power that sustains it. He gives purpose and stability to the material order. This provides the basis for the Christian view of the material world. This view contrasts sharply with non-Christian views of the material world. This view contrasts sharply that either say material things are evil and valueless or think the material world is all that exists and so is all-important. Christians view material things as good and valuable if used to fulfill God’s holy purposes for money and possessions and to reach the lost world.

SECOND THOUGHT OF THE DAY:

“Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their splendor. ‘All this I will give you,’ he said, ‘if you will bow down and worship me.’” (Matthew 4: 8-9)

The father of all lies (I call him the great deceivers) will come one day, pretending to be Jesus. He will come in some splendor and do his very best to take away from God, His people. Beloved, this is the single most important value in studying the Bible, so that we are able to see through all of his histionics or as I heard growing up, that, “Satan will come with his smoke and mirror show with one purpose, to make us believe that he is Jesus Christ. As my dear sweet mother used to say, “We can deflect his show by the truth, which is the one weapon, he cannot handle, the Truth!” We are to handle him by simply allowing the Holy Spirit to speak to him on our behalf. Beloved, the creation is God’s not the devil’s. Part of our worship of God should include our gratitude for the creation and God’s continue care of it. Gaining the world and all its wealth is not a goal for Christians. Material possessions can be used for good or evil. Satan tempted Jesus to become the Messiah of a temporal or material kingdom instead of a spiritual one. The devil seeks to deceive Christ’s followers. A Christian who follows Satan’s methods sins against God. He will have a short time to convince people, but if you have studied your Bible, you have read in Revelations, that Christ comes on the opening of the 7th Seal, while old Satan comes on the opening of the 6th Seal.

Satan was one of God’s own, but Satan decided he wanted to be God, and that where he got himself in trouble. But trouble will come for him and he will become a permanent resident of the Lake of Fire for all eternity. Upon the Seal opening for the 7th Seal, he will come no longer as the humble servant, as He will be coming in all His glory with legions of angels coming with Him to restore this world and all that is within it. Threre will be no “three ring circus” like Satan, it will be our Lord and Savior coming on behalf of His people and there will be no question as to who He is. Are you ready?

Meditation

04/22/2024

“A faithful man will be richly blessed, but one eager to get rich will not go unpunished. To show partiality is not good—-yet a man will do wrong for a piece of bread. A stingy man is eager to get rich and is unaware that poverty awaits him.” (Proverbs 28: 20-22)

God’s people do not set their sights on material prosperity. God’s people seek to be faithful to Him, to be fair and just with other people, and to help others. These attitudes lead to God’s blessings. Selfish commitment to wealth leads to eventual ruin.

PRAYER FOR THE DAY:

Dear Abba, today’s focus is upon the question: “What is a Stewards Attitudes?” The attitude of a true steward, is to keep themselves in situations whereby being faithful to God brings us joy. To be able to help others, brings more pleasure than material things ever could. Christians are always open to to be fair and just with others, and to help whenever possible and however necessary. Our return for keeping an attitude of stewardship, is to be blessed to see how God will use us to reach out to those in need and to seek to help them change their situation. Today, bless all those who are hurting in body, mind, and/or spirit, that they might set aside their issues and let You deal with them on their behalf, and accept their humble repentance of their sins Abba. For those in conflicts around the world, especially in the Middle East, with wars and natural disasters, pour out an anointing upon them all, that they too, might feel You near them and take comfort in that knowledge. Amen

THOUGHT OF THE DAY:

“It does not really matter what happens to us but what happens in us.”

KNOWING GOD:

“In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, we command you, brothers, to keep away from every brother who is idle and does not live according to the teaching you received from us. For you yourselves know how you ought to follow our example. We were not idle when we were with you, nor did we eat anyone’s food without paying for it. On the contrary, we worked night and day, laboring and toiling so that we would no be a burden to any of you. We did this, not because we do not have the right to such help, but in order to make ourselves a model for you to follow. For even when we were with you, we gave you this rule: ‘If a man will not work, he shall not eat.’ We hear that some among you are idle. They are not busy; they are busybodies. Such people we command and urge in the Lord Jesus Christ to settle down and earn the bread they eat. And as for you, brothers, never tire of doing what it right.” (2nd Thessalonians 3-6-13)

Work is honorable and necessary. Honest industry serves both human needs and the ministries of Christ. Work is not a punishment for our sin. Sin does cause labor to be toilsome, often a struggle against circumstances (Genesis 3). Labor is an essential part of our role as caretaker of God’s world. To work is to be a steward of God’s world.

SECOND THOUGHT OF THE DAY:

“Now the Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread were only two days away, and the chief priests and the teachers of the law were looking for some sly way to arrest Jesus and kill him, but not at the Feast, less the people may riot. Then Judas Iscariot , one of the Twelve came to the Chief Priests and teacher of the law, to betray Jesus to them. They were delighted to hear this and promised to give him money. So he watched for an opportunity to hand him over.” (Mark 14: 1-6, 10-11)

Loyalty to Christ does not have a price. Judas sold Christ to the priests (about 4 months pay, Matthew 25:15). He valued personal power, political freedom, and financial resources above Jesus and the kingdom of God. I doubt that Judas ever thought that Jesus would allow Himself to be killed; that when pushed, He would call forth legions of Angels to protect Him and vanquish His enemies. He was wrong, for He did what He had to do to gives people a clear path to salvation and entry into the kingdom of Heaven, through His death on the cross. Three days later He was resurrected and showed the cost of His having defeated Satan and death for all times.

In so doing, Jesus paid the ultimate price for our sins and all the sins of the world in the past, the present, and even into the future. The Christian steward must decide if Christ’s call to serve God by serving others is more important than worldly values. In addition, we each must decide to serve others that we encounter in our service for the sake of our relationship with God through His Son, our Savior, Jesus Christ. It is what brings the most joy to my life, by following Christ’s example. How about you???

Meditation

The 4th Sunday of Easter – 04-21-2024

Psalm 23; Acts 4:5-12; 1st John 3:16-24; John 10:11-18

Beloved this morning Psalm 23 begins by revealing the various ways that God shows His loving kindness and protecting power to those who need Him. Grace is God’s unmerited blessing, freely offered to those who do not deserve it. It expresses confidence that God will help even to the worst of circumstances, including death and evil. His love for us is illustated by His being the “Good Shepherd.” God is the loving Shepherd. Sheep are used to symbolically represent the leadership, guidance and protection that the Shepherd provides. The psalmist affirmed God’s tender presence during some of the most painful event in live. God is revealed here as One who changes bad times, but as the one who remains with His childen throughout the all times.

The captain of the temple guard and the Sadducees came up to Peter and John while they were speaking to the people and were disturbed because the apostles were teaching he people and proclaiming Jesus the resurrection of the dead! They were seized, and put into jail,because it was evening, until they who heard the message believed, and the number of men grew to about five thousand. The next day they were in the presence of Annas the High Priest and Caiaphas and other men of the high priests family, seeking to question them about their authority to speak to people in the manner they were, and Peter responded, filled by the Holy Spirit, saying: If we are being called to to account today for an act of kindness shown to a cripple and are asked how he was healed, then know this, you and all people of Israel; it is by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified but whom God raised from the dead, that this man stands before you healed. He is ‘The stone you builders rejected, which has become the capstone.’ Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved. Peter said all of this through the power of the Holy Spirit for he and John were on trial for their faith, the Spirit empowers to them to preach. Jesus had promised that under these circumstances that the Spirit would tell the disciples what to say. As Christians beloved, the ministry, death, and resurrection of Jesus made salvation possible. We are His witnesses that must lead people to Christ for salvation because salvation is not available in any other place or through any other person. All of this is accomplished by the same Holy Spirit that we received by accepting Jesus as our Lord and Savior, and have been baptized into our faith in Him alone.

In our reading from 1st John it states, (Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth.” Love of a neighbor is expressed better than in words. God’s love can hardly be at work in and through the life of a person who is not moved with compassion for those in need. A believer of Jesus Christ should love in truth and in deeds. Therefore, true love acts to help the one in need. The Bible repeatedly places great value on gifts to the poor. Jesus emphasized giving as He spoke of he Good Samaritan and of giving a cup of water in His name. Christian love expressed itself in action, not in pious words. All of these things we must do in humility and reverence leads us to act as Jesus would have, and we can be assured that He is with us and knows us (the good and the bad), and when we fall short, we simply confess our sins to Him and received His grace a mercy, which enables us to strive harder to do the good He knows we can do. God’s command is that we believe in His Son. This brings salvation and leads us to love as He loved.

From the Gospel message from John we learn that Eternal life is the life of a heavenly quality and quantity and can never be lost. Christ revealed the heart of God as He identified Himself as the Shepherd Son whose mind and heart were committed to offer love and life for the sake of His charge to us. Jesus loved enough to know His sheep personally.

Jesus is the Shepherd of His sheep—-all those who call on the name of Christ. He knows His sheep and calls them by name. The flock of God is not a large, nameless group of people, rather individuals known of God and called by Him. His people include others who are different in race, nationality, and native religion than those who whom the gospel first came. All these belong to God because Jesus laid down His life for the sheep, all of them. God’s purpose in Christ is to bring all His people together in His service. Spiritual unity under Christ is God’s plan for all His people. Church groups maintain separate identities to accomplish a unique mission, but all have a spiritual relationship to Christ’s larger family.

Simply put the cross revealed God’s supreme love for us and for his Son. The cross did not surprise God. It was part of His plan of revelation, a plan to which Jesus totally committed Himself. The only question that is left is, are you so committed in your life? If not, why not? The words of the 23rd Psalm at the beginning of this sermon, is to remind one and all that we are not alone, ever. God is always with us, in the good times and the worst of time. He isn’t saying He will change your circumstances, He is saying that He will be with us in those times. This past year, our son passed away from heart disease. Several people asked me the question, “Where was God when your son died? I replied, “He was at the same place when His Son died on the Cross! He was right there and He will be with each of you in your own situations, as well. Amen

Meditation

04/19/2024

“And I saw that all labor and all achievement spring from man’s envy of his neighbor. This too is meaningless, a chasing after the wind. The fool folds his hands and ruins himself. Better one handful with tranquility than two handfuls with toil and chasing after the wind.” (Ecclesiastes 4: 4-6)

Living modestly is better than “chasing after the wind” of wealth. Labor should be done to meet God’s goals for our lives not to meet the standard set by our neighbor. Christ said that life does not consist of things, no matter how abundant. Real living is in giving and serving, not in getting and indulging. Inner peace and tranquillity, not personal wealth and prestige, mark true success.

PRAYER FOR THE DAY:

Dear Abba, today’s focus is upon the question: “What is a Stewards Lifestyle?” The one real answer is that if we are chasing the world’s lifestyle, than God’s, we are chasing into the wind that which we will never truly attain. Even if we did attain some success, it would not give you peace and comfort in times of hardship, only God can do that. It will not provide one salvation, only God can do that. It won’t give you a lifestyle that provides for your spiritual development, only God can do that. So, why would want to pursue a lifestyle that won’t give you any of the most important things that only God provides? Today, bless all those who are hurting in body, mind, and/or spirit, that they might set aside their issues and let You deal with them on their behalf, and accept their humble repentance of their sins Abba. For those in conflicts around the world, especially in the Middle East, with wars and natural disasters, pour out an anointing upon them all, that they too, might feel You near them and take comfort in that knowledge. Amen

THOUGHT OF THE DAY:

“We are called to be now, what we will be when Jesus returns.”

KNOWING GOD:

“Judah has broken faith. A detestable thing has been committed in Israel and in Jerusalem: Judah has desecrated the sanctuary the Lord loves, by marrying the daughter of a foreign god. As for the man who does this, whoever he may be, may the Lord cut him off from the tents of Jacob—-even thought he brings offering to the Lord Almighty. Another thing you do: You flood the Lord’s altar with tears. You weep and wail because he no longer pays attention to your offerings or accepts them with pleasure from your hands.” (Malachi 2-11-13)

God gave Israel a covenant based on trust in and love for both God and fellow members of the covenant. Israel broke faith by dealing treacherously. This treachery consisted in marrying women with idols for gods and infesting Israel with false worship!

Giving or ceremonial worship does not remove the necessity for right living, including respect within families. Israel lived among peoples who had no problem participating in worship services for several different gods. Marriage meant simply adding another worship service—-that of the spouse’s god—-to the schedule. The one true God does not accept that. He is sufficient to handle all functions attributed to any god. We must, therefore, devote all worship and reverences to Him alone.

SECOND THOUGHT OF THE DAY:

“Jesus entered Jericho and was passing through. A man was there by the name of Zacchaeus; he was a chief tax collector and was wealthy. He wanted to see who Jesus was, but being a short man he could not, because of the crowd. So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore fig tree to see him, since Jesus was coming that way. When Jesus reached the spot, he looked up and said to him, “Zacchaeus, climb down immediately. I must stay at your house today.” So he came down at once and welcomed him greatly. All the people saw this and began to mutter, “He has gone to be the guest of a ‘sinner.’ But Zacchaeus stood up and said to the Lord, Look, Lord! Here and now I give half of my possessions to the poor, and if I have cheated anybody out of anything, I will pay back four times the amount.” Jesus said to him, “Today salvation has come to this house, because this man, too is a son of Abraham. For the Son of man came to seek and to save what was lost.’” (Luke 19: 1-10)

Restitution is a good sign of a changed life. Zacchaeus exhibited repentance by pledging to make a fourfold return for wrongs committed and giving half of his posssessions to the poor. Good stewdarship is the result of a new life committed to serving Christ. The dramatic change in the life of Zacchaeus indicated true repentance and conversion, the beginning point of discipleship. Discipleship involves service to others, not unjust treatment to amass material wealth. Jesus’ mission was to lead people to a saving relationship with God. Such a relationship delivers from sin and selfishness to service of God and other people.

Meditation

04/18/2024

“Yours, O Lord, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the majesty and the splendor, for everything in heaven and earth is yours. Yours, O Lord, is the kingdom; you are exalted as head over all. Wealth and honor come from you; you are the ruler of all things. In your hands are strength and power to exalt and give strength to all. Now, our God, we give you thanks, and praise your glorious name. But who am I, and who are my people, that we should be able to give as generously as this? Everything comes from you, and we have given you only what comes from your hand. We are aliens and strangers in your sight, as were all our forefathers. Our days on earth are like a shadow, without hope. O Lord our God, as for all this abundance that we have provided for building you a temple for your Holy Name, it comes from your hand, and all of it belongs to you. I know, my God, that you test the heart and are pleased with integrity. All these things have I given willingly and with honest intent. And now I have seen with joy how willingly your people who are here have given to you. O Lord, God of our fathers Abraham, Isaac and Israel, keep this desire in the hearts of your people forever, and keep their hearts loyal to you. And give my son Solomon the wholehearted devotion to keep your commands, requirements and decrees and to do everything to build the palatial structure for which I have provided.” (1st Chronicles 29: 11-19)

Beloved stewardship rests on the fundamental belief that God owns everything that exists. People are His servants, serving Him as stewards of what He chooses to let us have. All earthly wealth comes from Him. So does human strength, power, and position. We do not deserve to have anything to give back to God. We give only what we have received. Stewardship is one test of integrity to see if we act on our belief that God is Lord and Owner of all. David and his people passed the test as they provided for God’s Temple. He prayed that God’s people would continue to work with such loyalty, generosity, and faithfulness forever. He also prayed that his son Solomon would be faithful in using the resources David had given for God’s purposes. A major part of stewardship involves God’s people collecting and allocating financial resources in ways that will please God and fulfill His purposes.

PRAYER FOR THE DAY:

Dear Abba, today’s focus is upon the question: “Recognition of God’s Ownership for Stewardship Management, Combined with God’s People’s Belief and Faithful Practices.” In actuality, God owns everything, but the challenge is helping the people to understand that we are only in charge of some things for a little while. This generation has provided and increased God’s assets, but we are not preparing for the time when the next generation will assume our duties as pass on to the kingdom. The next generation will then feel the weight of carrying on and preparing for the generation after them. This has gone on for over 2,000 years and it works only when we understand all belongs to God, not us. We are stewards of that which God has allowed us to use in service to Him. Today, bless all those who are hurting in body, mind, and/or spirit, that they might set aside their issues and let You deal with them on their behalf, and accept their humble repentance of their sins Abba. For those in conflicts around the world, especially in the Middle East, with wars and natural disasters, pour out an anointing upon them all, that they too, might feel You near them and take comfort in that knowledge. Amen

THOUGHT OF THE DAY:

“God made His people for worship—-never for wickedness.”

KNOWING GOD:

“The earth is the Lord’s and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it.” (Psalm 24-1)

About 10 years ago, while working in a church in Burnet, Texas, I found out that a special speaker was going to talk of his experience in space at a men’s gathering in Marble Falls, Texas. I was able to attend to listen to Jim Lovell, American astronaut, naval aviator, test pilot and mechanical engineer, who in 1968, became the first crewed spaceflight to leave Earth orbit and first to orbit the Moon. They made 10 orbits of the Moon and then safely returned to Earth. His talk was on his experience, but when he finshed his prepared text he was asked the question, What did Earth look like returning home. He paused for a moment and then he looked up (though one could tell he was back in the capsule and describing what he saw and how he felt), and began to describe the beauty of the Earth and how precious it truly is. He then said, it’s a shame more people can’t see it as those few of us that have seen it ourselves. If they could, they would treat God’s creation so much better. Then, he gently dabbed his eyes and sat down, for he cried tears of joy for the experience he was given to see. He was a good man, before and after, but that experience changed him forever. He was telling a true tale about how we as stewards of this Earth we live on, need to strive to be better that we ever have been, and each generation ought to leave this island home better than we found it. This applies to all of us on this we call our planet.

SECOND THOUGHT OF THE DAY:

“Eat anything sold in the meat market without raising questions of conscience, for, ‘The earth is the Lord’s , and everything in it.’ If some unbeliever invites you to a meal and you want to go, eat whatever is put before you without raising questions of conscience. But if anyone says to you, ‘This has been offered in sacrifice,’ then do not eat it, both for the sake of he man who told you and for conscience sake—-the other man’s conscience, I mean, not yours. For why should my freedom be judged by another’s conscience? If I take part in the meal with thankfulness, why am I denounced because of something I thank God for? So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” (1st Corinthians 10: 25-31)

Material things belong to God and are entrusted to us for our use. We may misuse things, but this does not take them away from God’s ownership. The evil is in the user, not in the material thing itself. Paul explained that the ritual defilement of meat by pagans in sacrifices did not make the meat evil. It was God’s before they took it, and it remained His. Christians use material things in ways that show concern for fellow believes. We are to us all thing to the glory of God. Simply put, food does not determine whether a meal is pleasing to God. The dedication of the meal to Him through a prayer of thanks does.