Judges 6:11-18

Hagar, Abraham, Jacob, Moses, the Israelite nation, Samson's mother, Joshua and the Apostle John all have something in common.  They all experienced an Angel of God in their midst.  These Angels guided, advised, informed, defended, revealed, and prepared the people; helping them do what they were unable or unwilling to do themselves. These Angels enhanced the lives of those they came to touch.

"When the angel of the LORD appeared to Gideon, he said, "The LORD is with you, mighty warrior." (Judges 6:12)

When the angel came to Gideon, a farmer, the heavenly being came to bolster up Gideon.  He was a farmer, but God had plans for this farmer to become a mighty warrior.  He knew the potential of this man and the angel was there to affirm the warrior. God does these things today even.  Have you ever felt like God was calling you to a certain ministry for which you were totally unprepared?

The LORD answered, “I will be with you" (Judges 6:16)

I love the saying, "God doesn't call the equipped, He equips the called."  That is what He did with Moses, Abraham, Gideon, and it is what he does with you and me.  When we are in over our head it is because He want us to spend more time on our knees. "I can do all things through him who strengthens me." (Philippians 4:13)

Read the text here.  Listen to an audio recording here.

Exodus 3:7-15

Have you ever been given an assignment that you felt was way outside your skill level?  Have you ever felt like you were in over your head?  Do you remember what happened; how you got out of that predicament.

This scenario reminds of the first day on the job.  I got through the interview process, having prepared a resume' that enticed a potential employer to meet with me.  Then when I landed the job and appeared for duty the first day, I started to feel inadequate.  What if's filled my mind and I allowed fear and doubt get the better of me.

Exodus 3:11-12 (NIV)

"But Moses said to God, "Who am I, that I should go to Pharaoh and bring the Israelites out of Egypt?"  And God said, "I will be with you. And this will be the sign to you that it is I who have sent you: When you have brought the people out of Egypt, you will worship God on this mountain."


Moses is expressing fears and doubts to God, as he is given his instructions for freeing the Israelite nation from captivity.  God chose Moses; he knew Moses' job experience and his heart.  God wasn't worried that Moses wasn't up to the challenge.  He knew he was capable.  But, to calm him down God told him Aaron would be with him.  Somehow it is always better when we know we aren't alone; when someone we are familiar with is by our side.

I think that is why God made us as relational beings, creatures who need other people in their lives to be complete.  There is nothing like the gift of a friend to help us feel better about ourselves.  Knowing I don't walk alone makes it easier to stand tall and face the unknown.

Read the text here.  Listen to an audio recording of the text here.

Genesis 15:1-6

What is the desire of your heart?  What is it that you want most in life and feel you need in order to be fulfilled?  I used to dream about winning the lottery and I would also buy those scratch-off tickets hoping to strike it rich by rubbing a coin over the covering to the treasure that awaited me.

Perhaps you dream of being famous, an actor or singer perhaps.  We all have dreams, God created us with desires and longings.  He created us different and unique from each other.  He also created us in His image, so He understands our deep desires and passions.

"After this, the word of the LORD came to Abram in a vision:
   “Do not be afraid, Abram.
I am your shield,
your very great reward.” (Genesis 15:1)

Abraham had a very personal desire or dream.  He wanted to be a dad and his wife Sarah wanted to be the mother of his children.  God promised both of them they would have an heir.  They had been waiting for a very long time, so long in fact, Abraham referred to himself as being "older than dirt". (paraphrased by writer).  But, it came to pass and Sarah gave birth to Isaac.

So, how long have you been waiting for your dream, your hearts desire to become reality?  Getting back to my lottery days, I have moved beyond those worldly dreams and desires.  Material things mean very little.  While I still enjoy a gadget or electronic device, I could live without.  It is not a burning desire.  Now, I simply want to have peace and I want everyone I care about to experience God's peace too.

Read the text here.  Listen to a reading of the text here.

MATTHEW 5:13-20

Salt and Light
Jesus said, “You are the salt of the earth.”
Jesus said, “You are the light of the world.”
As salt enhances the flavor of food, so we are to enhance the flavor of this world. We are called not to accept a bland, flavorless existence. 
Read the text here.  Listen here.

As life without light is dark and frightening, so we are summoned to brighten
this world, to reflect the SON.
Jesus said, “…let your light shine before men…”
He did not say it would be easy.
He did not promise He would protect us from persecution.
He did not say we would just know what to do,
we must learn…………………………………

Listen to: LEARNING TO BE THE LIGHT

Matthew 5:2-12

Do you feel blessed? I wanted to see just what this word means in English and Dictionary.com defines blessed as blissfully happy, contented, divinely or supremely favored, fortunate.  During the time in history when Jesus was teaching from this hillside, he was there because the people wanted to know more about Him, they wanted to hear what He had to say to them.

His words to the followers then, just as now, affirm the fact it isn't worldly treasures that will make us blissfully happy; things will not bring about contentment. He teaches that the materials things of this world have no kingdom value.  The Eight Beatitudes hold us to a different standard of living; they point us to a life of humility, mercy, purity, and peacefulness.  

The Eight Beatitudes, or Sermon on the Mount, which the text for today is often called, is a way to live life.  The Christian 12-Step program, Celebrate Recovery is grounded in these verses.  For all people dealing with hurts, hang-ups and habits these eight declarations are rules to live by; a way to become recovered in Christ.

When we live by this higher standard we may not feel blessed, as this world knows blessing.  We will feel persecuted, poked fun at and sometimes we may even fear for our well-being, but Jesus taught:

"Count yourselves blessed every time people put you down or throw you out or speak lies about you to discredit me. What it means is that the truth is too close for comfort and they are uncomfortable. You can be glad when that happens—give a cheer, even!—for though they don't like it, I do! And all heaven applauds. And know that you are in good company. My prophets and witnesses have always gotten into this kind of trouble." (Matthew 5:11-12)

Read Matthew 5:2-12 here.  Listen to Matthew 5:2-12 here.

Matthew 4:23-5:1

Did you have a favorite teacher in school; or perhaps a favorite subject?  I was not particularly fond of school, but I did like my Sophomore English teacher. Of course the fact that he was young and very good looking had nothing to do with it.  I looked forward to attending his class every day.  I loved English, so that helped with the attraction.

"When Jesus saw his ministry drawing huge crowds, he climbed a hillside. Those who were apprenticed to him, the committed, climbed with him. Arriving at a quiet place, he sat down and taught his climbing companions." (Matthew 5:1)

I can imagine the disciples and followers of Jesus anticipating the next mountainside teaching session, can't you?  What must that have been like; to learn from the Master, to hear the Words of the One who is the Author of Life!  We know His closest followers loved Him dearly and they hung on His every word.  I try to imagine his eyes as He taught those around Him.  Attempt to envision His hand gestures as the Teacher pounds home a prophetic point.

Oh, to be lost in that moment in time with the Master.  When I think in terms of Jesus' teaching me now I try to imagine those eyes - lovingly and patiently looking into my eyes - repeating until I finally get it.  His gestures are all loving and I do not for a minute feel intimidated, only loved.  The next time we sit down with our Bibles, visualize Jesus sitting on a hillside...teaching.

Read Matthew 4:23-5:1 here.  Listen to Matthew 4:23-5:1 here.

Matthew 4:18-22

When my sister and I were kids we were known in the neighborhood for the way our father called us in for supper.  He would whistle loudly and we would come running.  I always wanted to learn how to whistle like that, real loud, but never mastered that art.  But, when I would hear the shrill sound over the back yards I knew better than to tarry.

Often we would go home, but once there we would attempt to negotiate and see if we couldn't convert our reasoning into some more playing time. It usually didn't work.

"Jesus called them, and immediately they left the boat and their father and followed him." (Matthew 11:22)

The scripture today is talking about a different type of call.  Jesus is calling His disciples, not by a whistle, but by love and trust and faith.  Jesus called them and they immediately followed.  Wow, immediately they followed Him.  What does that say; what does that tell us about the character of Jesus and of the men he selected.  I have no doubt but that Jesus spent time praying over the men He was to call.

I love the word 'call' and the context it is used.  Many do not believe in being called, but if you have ever had a job you loved and felt so content, happy, equipped and satisfied you know what that is.  When you get up in the morning anticipating the joy you will experience on your job; sensing that you are exactly where God wants you to be, you my friend have been called.

Read Matthew 4:18-22 here.  Listen to Matthew 4:18-22 here.

Matthew 6:1-6, 16-18

I read a very interesting article in one of the Christian magazines I subscribe to about prayer and fasting.  The subject is fascinating while scary at the same time.  The Bible calls us to pray and fast, and we have put lots of spins on what this is to look like.  I guess that is why I wrote that it is scary.  I don't want to do this wrong.  If God is pointing out the need or requirement for this practice, far be it from me to mess it up.

It sounds like I am letting my pride get in the way before I even begin. “And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by others." (Matthew 6:5) “When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show others they are fasting." (Matthew 6:16)

The magazine article said fasting is a wholehearted desire to know God and to seek Him.  Spending time with God in prayer is the focus of fasting, not abstaining from food.  Isn't that what we want to do?  I know when I spend quality time with God, I feel closer to Him than when I rush through my morning quiet time.

These scriptures have reminded me of the importance of drawing near to God.  On this day, Ash Wednesday, when we are reminded that we are dust and to dust we shall return is perfect timing.

Read the Matthew 6:1-6, 16-18 text here.  Listen to Matthew 6:1-6, 16-18 here.

Matthew 6:7-15

Have you ever been asked, "How's your prayer life?"  What would your answer be?  What is an answer to a question like that?  Well, that's a pretty personal question don't you think?  Oh, yes, it is, very personal, and important.

If I had a friend who cared enough about me to ask me this questions I would take is as a compliment and feel as though I truly had a friend. Prayer is one of the best things we can do, for ourselves and for others. So, if I may be so bold as to ask, "How is your prayer life?" Jesus thought prayer so important that He prayed continually to His Father.  If Jesus needed to pray, well then we certainly have something to gain from it as well.

I love to read these verses from our Scripture for today. "And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words. Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him." (Matthew 6:7-8)

Isn't it good to know that God knows what we need before we even ask.  We are told too that we don't need many or big words to pray.  God would understand and enjoy hearing from us no matter how eloquent or simple our vocabulary is.  God hears our heart when we pray, not our words.

Read the Matthew 6:7-15 text here.  Listen to Matthew 6:7-15 here.

Matthew 4:12-17

Are you afraid of the dark?  Many children have this fear and won't settle down at night without the aid of a night-light.  But, even a night-light will not dispel the anxiety of all children.  What about you, are you fearful of darkness?  Do you get a cold chill when the lights go out unexpectedly and you are thrust into a world of black?

One of the things I have noticed since moving to northern Wisconsin is just how dark the night sky is.  If it weren't for the stars and moon, you would not be able to see your hand in front of your face.  That is how I see the world today; darkness surrounds us, but for the bright moon and stars, I would not be able to move forward.

At the risk of sounding trite or overly simple, Jesus is the light (stars) in a dark sky (world).  My immediate location is filled with bright beams of light allowing me to move forward without fear.  I also know that if I step outside this place - move away from God - darkness will once again surround and suffocate; leaving me afraid of my own shadow.

“The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned.”  Matthew 4:16

Jesus came to us as a light in the midst of darkness.  The plan of salvation revolves around Jesus and, as Revelation says, once we are in heaven there will be no need for the sun, moon or stars because the light Jesus casts will make everything else pale in comparison.  Jesus is my night light.

Read the Matthew 4:12-17 text here.  Listen to an audio of Matthew 4:12-17 here.

Luke 13:22-30

Take the high road
Dance to the beat of a different drummer
Don’t follow the crowd
What’s popular isn’t always right, and what’s right isn’t always popular
Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail

These are the types of phrases we often used with our children as they were growing up. We all strive to help our young people see that there are bad influences and evil all around us that we want them to stay clear of. We have lots of good advice, but it is much easier said than done in this world. Apparently the same was true when Jesus walked this earth.

His words were, “Make every effort to enter through the narrow door, because many I tell you, will try to enter and will not be able to. Once the owner of the house gets up and closes the door, you will stand outside knocking and pleading, Sir, open the door for us……. But he will reply, I don’t know you or where you come from. Away from me, all you evildoers!” Jesus spoke of many coming from the east, west, north and south who will take their place at the feast in the kingdom of God. Then he reminded us that “Indeed there are those who are last who will be first, and first who will be last.”

This reminds me of the Beatitudes in Matthew where it says, “Blessed are the poor in spirit for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” and “Blessed are the pure in spirit for they shall see God.” I hope I am following God's plan for me, choosing the right path, or door, or narrow passage way that leads to the kingdom we all dream of. As adults, we are good at guiding young people in our lives toward what we see as the righteous way. Are we as adults, choosing the right path when we come upon those forks in the road? When we look into the mirror, do we see the reflection of one who models what is good and true in God’s eyes? I hope and pray God sees me as worthy when judgment day comes, and that I will see all of you at God’s blessed feast!

Click here for today's scripture

Luke 22:7-23

There is a verse in the Bible many will recognize and claim and it is: "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." (Jeremiah 29:11) This was a favorite with both my husband and me.  We had both attended a weekend retreat at our church (at different times) and this was the verse each of our groups adopted.

There is such comfort to be found in these words, especially for a new believer, a fresh follower who has just accepted the challenge to grow a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.  At such a vulnerable time as this, to hear the words of Our Lord saying His plans include Hope and Future, many begin a faith journey of a lifetime.  

As I read today's scripture I was reminded of this declaration.  When Jesus was giving instructions to Peter and John regarding the preparations for the Passover Meal, it became obvious He had planned this event ahead of time.  The scene was set and all the characters, right down to the man carrying water, had an important role to carry out.  Jesus commands and the faithful trust and obey.

He replied, “As you enter the city, a man carrying a jar of water will meet you. Follow him to the house that he enters, and say to the owner of the house, ‘The Teacher asks: Where is the guest room, where I may eat the Passover with my disciples?’  He will show you a large room upstairs, all furnished. Make preparations there.” (Luke 22:10-12)

The fact that our LORD has a plan for us makes it possible for me to carry on in the face of adversity; it give me a reason to move forward when things aren’t has I think they should be.  God has a plan, Jesus has a plan and I know that is all I need today.

Read the Luke 22:7-23 text here.  Listen to an audio of Luke 22:7-23 here.

Note: Today is the first anniversary of my husband’s death.  The verses were switched around (yesterday and today) quite by accident by this writer, but certainly no accident by our God.  I dedicate this devotional to the men of Dave’s renewal team, who visited, loved and prayed for him during the final weeks of his life.  God’s plan is falling into place quite nicely.

Revelation 19:6-10

There was a time I did not like going to church.  I was young for one thing, didn't understand what church was all about and thought there were better things to do on a Sunday morning.  All that has changed and for a number of reasons.  You are among those reasons, for I look forward to seeing friends, talking with you and ultimately worshiping with you. When standing next to you while praising God, I feel like I am in close communion with Jesus.  Scripture says, "Where two or three come together..."

When I go to church now, having lived more of life and having studied God's Word and applied it to my life and situation and circumstances, I am learning to understand the concept of Worship.  Worship fills my heart with peace and joy and love.  Sometimes my heart gets so full that it overflows and I find tears streaming down my face.  Have you ever experienced this?  This is one of the things I see in my mind's eye when reading this section of Revelation; the multitude praising God.

Then I heard what sounded like a great multitude, like the roar of rushing waters and like loud peals of thunder, shouting:

“Hallelujah!
For our Lord God Almighty reigns.
7 Let us rejoice and be glad
and give him glory!
For the wedding of the Lamb has come,
and his bride has made herself ready. (Revelation 19:6-7)

There are many reasons why I love to go to church.  To be in the company of the Fellowship of Believers, singing God's praise together is sweet.  Raising holy hands to God in unison is a vision I believe we will see in Heaven and one that we practice here on earth.

Then the angel said to me, “Write this: Blessed are those who are invited to the wedding supper of the Lamb!” And he added, “These are the true words of God.” (Revelation 19:9)
Read the Revelation 19:6-10 text here.  Listen to an audio reading here.

Numbers 10:1-10

The average American probably uses an alarm clock to wake up with in the morning. This may be a ringing, or buzzing sound or even pleasant music. For our brothers and sisters in the armed forces, this wakeup call can be a lot more jarring, as Reveille calls the camp to life with a trumpet blast. There is no hesitation, when the call is sounded; it’s time to wake up!

I am beginning to understand and appreciate the scope of Moses' job. We aren't talking about rescuing a few dozen people from pharaoh's land, not even a few hundred, but thousands upon thousands of men, women, children, animals and their possessions. What an undertaking, and no wonder Moses was so hesitant when God first called him, no wonder he questioned his ability to take on this assignment.

The prospect of taking a family vacation is daunting at times. The idea of packing enough provisions for the trip, rounding everyone up and taking care to ensure all arrangements have been made before hitting the road can be exhausting. Contrast this with the duty Moses had been given and it seems like a walk in the park. But there is one thing that is necessary in both situations: law and order.

Someone has to be in command and someone has to lay out the rules for order to exist. This holds true on a family holiday and on a much larger scale it was true for the journey Moses was preparing to take. Life is filled with rules to obey, laws to observe to maintain order in our lives. The scripture today tells of the command for Moses to have two silver trumpets made. These trumpets were to be used to coordinate the tribes as they moved through the wilderness. These trumpets also reminded the people of God’s protection over them.

The LORD said to Moses: “Make two trumpets of hammered silver, and use them for calling the community together and for having the camps set out. (Numbers 10:1-2)

These trumpets make various sounds and using different pitches and tones the people learned what was required of their next move. If we read the paragraph before these verses today we learn God would tell them when to journey further and when to stay put for a season. But when he gave the signal to move on, the trumpets were to be used to call everyone to readiness. The trumpets gave the order to pack up and prepare to move out.

Is there a trumpet sounding in the distance for you this day? Is God trying to get your attention or call you back in line with the rest of His people? Is this a wakeup call?
Read the Numbers 10:1-10 text here.  Listen to an audio version here.

Isaiah 25:1-9

With this being the anniversary week of the loss of my husband you may expect this week's writings to be a bit melancholy, with words pointing to memories of last year this time for this writer, but not so. God has been working in my heart and has prepared me for this season. The Scripture verses for today are exhilarating and exciting. Is God speaking to you to?

LORD, you are my God;
I will exalt you and praise your name,
for in perfect faithfulness
you have done wonderful things,
things planned long ago. (Isaiah 25:1)

A close friend of mine told me that she sensed God was moving me to the north woods of Wisconsin because it was to be a refuge for me. For the longest time I felt alone and recognized I needed to draw near to God. I am slowly coming to realize God’s plan is always perfect. Is God nudging you to take up residence in His refuge?

You have been a refuge for the poor,
a refuge for the needy in their distress,
a shelter from the storm
and a shade from the heat. (Isaiah 25:4)

It is a new day and I am prepared now to feast on God’s goodness, His promises and His glory. The time for mourning has passed and God is revealing a bright future for the faithful. I am reminded to ask myself, “Why continue to grieve someone the presence of God? How selfish is that?”

In that day they will say,

“Surely this is our God;
we trusted in him, and he saved us.
This is the LORD, we trusted in him;
let us rejoice and be glad in his salvation.” (Isaiah 25:9)

Is God moving you through a dark valley, is life a constant burden? Turn to Him and you will find refuge.
Read the Isaiah 25:1-9 text here.  Listen to an audio reading here.

A Valentine's Story - Genesis 26:25-33

We've all heard the story about the feuding families, the Hatfield's and McCoy's. There have been any number of tales spun around that theme, not the least of which are Romeo and Juliet and of course West Side Story. These yarns all ended up badly because of hatred and unforgiving hearts. People were hurt and relationships ruined forever because pride got in the way of peace.

Part of 'one another-ing is getting along. We are called to love our neighbor as ourselves, but this isn't always easy. We learn from Scripture that people fight and make-up, desert each other and return to make amends. We know also that Jesus encouraged his disciples to not only love but serve one another. If we don't get along, how can we serve?

They answered, “We saw clearly that the LORD was with you; so we said, ‘There ought to be a sworn agreement between us’—between us and you. Let us make a treaty with you that you will do us no harm, just as we did not harm you but always treated you well and sent you away peacefully. And now you are blessed by the LORD.” (Genesis 26:28-29)

King Abimelech saw how successful Isaac was and feared he would become too powerful. He saw Isaac as a threat so he commanded he move away, so Isaac did. Ninety years passed when the king of the Philistines returned to Isaac acknowledging his success was a blessing from God. He wanted to make peace, a covenant between the families/nations. Isaac turned this occasion into a celebration.

We are called to live in harmony for so much good can be accomplished when we care for each other.

Read the Genesis 26:25-33 text here.  Listen to an audio of  Genesis 26:25-33 here.

Genesis 21:1-8

The beginning of each year brings with it a new focus word for me.  This is a word I have felt God prodding me with, a word that comes up in conversation, in reading time or even in song.  A few years ago the word was perseverance and God kept dropping it in my quiet time with Him.  (read James 1:2-4) He was calling on me to keep moving forward with the plan He had been revealing to me.

"Now the LORD was gracious to Sarah as he had said, and the LORD did for Sarah what he had promised." (Genesis 21:1)

Does God do this for you?  Do you stop long enough to hear His voice?  I found that to be a key for me.  I had to learn not to let my agenda collide with His plan and His promises for me.  Perseverance was a challenging word for me to practice and I am still practicing it today.

There have been many words over the past few years and my current one is "relentless".  When I first discerned the word I thought it was a negative word, but now know it is not.  It is the way He wants me to be this year.  I have spent too much time grieving and then vacillating between decisions. My indecisiveness even irritated me.  God has been telling me that He is in control, I am not.

His promises are real and I can depend on His Word and so he is telling me to be relentless. Just as He promised Sarah would bear a son in her old age and He fulfilled that promise, I must believe too.  I must be persistent in my study of Him, unyielding in my writing for Him, insistent in my relationships with others.  I am sensing it is time to take God at His Word and move forward with a relentless spirit and heart.

Read the Genesis 21:1-8 text here.  Listen to an audio of Genesis 21:1-8 here.

Luke 13:18-21

When Jesus walked the earth, he often used parables to teach. Those lessons of life are available to us today, within His word. These parables hold within them important messages for us that are not always easy to understand. The parable of the mustard seed and the yeast is brief. When I read it I see Jesus contemplating just how to verbalize his thoughts. Thinking deeply about his word choice, and making a visual in his head before he begins speaking. “Then Jesus asked, What is the kingdom of God like? What shall I compare it to? It is like a mustard seed, which a man took and planted in his garden. It grew and became a tree, and the birds of the air perched in its branches.”

In Mark 4:30-32 the parable of the mustard seed is again mentioned. At the end of it however, Mark writes “With many similar parables, Jesus spoke the word to them, as much as they could understand. He did not say anything to them without using a parable. But when he was alone with his own disciples, he explained everything.” How awesome would that have been to be one of those who Jesus clarified his parables to! They often hold messages we do not see, because our understanding of God’s kingdom is like a mustard seed, so very small. It has the potential however, to grow into something bigger than we know, larger and richer than our brains can wrap around. Even as devoted Christ followers we are still unable to fathom what is to come….but we still try, and as we do, we grow and sprout branches.

Click here to view entire passage

Matthew 17:14-21

Do you ever consider your faith, how strong it is, or perhaps how weak?  Our faith grows when we struggle. Our faith grows when we walk through the fiery furnaces of life.  We we face foes that seem totally insurmountable and we find ourselves on our knees begging for God to get us through this ordeal, that is when faith grows.

If life were one easy venture after another there would be no need for faith nor for prayer in our lives.  It is much the same as learning from our mistakes.  If we did not err there would be no life lessons.  Some think that once we are Christian, life is easy; there are no more challenges and certainly no more heartbreak.  Wrong...so very wrong.  Once we became Christian that is when we begin to learn about real life and we discover we still have to fight our way through some circumstances, but we have God to rely on.  We can call out to Him and He will hear us and he will respond.

My faith certainly has grown over the past 10 years and most notably so over the last year and a half.  I feel closer to God than ever before and I believe stronger that ever before.  Are you in a spot where your faith is growing stronger too?  It may feel like a hot seat but in fact it is the best place to be.

"Then the disciples came to Jesus in private and asked, “Why couldn’t we drive it out?” He replied, “Because you have so little faith. Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.” (Matthew 17:19-20)


Read the selected text, Matthew 17:14-21, here.  Listen to an audio recording here.

1 Corinthians 15:42-49

"So will it be with the resurrection of the dead. The body that is sown is perishable, it is raised imperishable; it is sown in dishonor, it is raised in glory; it is sown in weakness, it is raised in power; it is sown a natural body, it is raised a spiritual body." (1 Corinthians 15:42-44)

For anyone who has ever experienced the death of a loved one, a Believer, these words bring comfort.  For anyone who has ever watched someone they loved die from cancer or another terrible disease, find peace in the words above. I did, and I still do today.  

God has promised us a new body, a Resurrection body that is perfect and more than we could ever hope for or dream about.  That is beyond comprehension, isn’t it?  To think that one day we will be resurrected into eternity, new and without flaw and we will never perish again, we will never sin again, we will never die again.  Whew, it makes all we endure worthwhile.

Now, I feel the most important goal in this life time is to get to heaven and to bring as many people with me as I can.  Are you feeling that way too?

And just as we have borne the image of the earthly man, so shall we bear the image of the heavenly man. (1 Corinthians 15:49)


Read the selected text, 1 Corinthians 15:42-49, here.  Listen to an audio recording here.

1 Corinthians 3:5-9

God Makes the Seed Grow

Paul is explaining in this text that he may have planted the seed of faith in the followers, and Apollos watered that seed, but it was God who made it grow.  Paul points out that he and Apollos were merely using the gifts God gave them to serve others.

The one who plants and the one who waters have one purpose, and they will each be rewarded according to their own labor. For we are co-workers in God’s service; you are God’s field, God’s building. (1 Corinthians 3:8-9)

The reason for this statement was to point to God as the one to be worshiped and the one to whom all thanksgiving and praise belongs. Some in Corinth were beginning to give undo homage to Paul and Apollos, they were splitting into factions and pledging their loyalty to a man instead of God.  This practice was splitting the Church in Corinth.

I learned this lesson the hard way.  Many years ago, as a new Christian, I felt a real connection to the pastor at my church.  He was young and dynamic and very personable.  My husband and I developed a real friendship with him and his family.  When he announced one Sunday that he was accepting a call at another church, we were devastated; but some learned that this had to happen.  It was God’s will as many of us in the congregation were attending church for the wrong reasons.

For we are co-workers in God’s service; you are God’s field, God’s building.

Read the selected text, 1 Corinthians 3:5-9, here.  Listen to the audio recording here.

Matthew 13:10-23

Have you even been to a church service that provided a Children's Sermon before dismissing the little ones to their Sunday School Class?  If you have you will see a connection between a Children's Sermon and one of Jesus' parables. To provide a good children's sermon you must take a step back and recognize your audience, then you need a healthy knowledge of the subject you are going to teach about.

A person skilled in delivering a children's sermon is able to speak to the little ones on their level, relating the Bible story to something they they can understand.  Often you will find one of these teachers using a prop, like a stuffed animal or another toy any child would be interested.  Then you fashion your sermon by using one of these tools to get the message across.

"He replied, “Because the knowledge of the secrets of the kingdom of heaven has been given to you, but not to them." (Matthew 13:11)

That same preacher wouldn't deliver this message on the same Bible story to his adult audience, because they have had the privilege of having heard the story before.  They have read their Bibles and maybe even discussed the topic in a small group setting.  The younger people have not been exposed to the stories yet.

Jesus used parables to teach His new followers, because they have not heard any of these things yet, so Jesus tells stories using props and tools his audience would be familiar with and could understand.

We all had to start somewhere.  If, ten years ago, you tried to reach me by bringing me to an in-depth Bible study with deep discussion and dialog, you would have been wasting both of our time.  I needed to be spoon fed for a while'; I needed simple and unassuming conversation.  I needed to be taught the basics before I was ready for the meat of the stories. That is why Jesus used parables so often, so you and I could learn the basics before tackling the wisdom and Spiritual essence of Scripture.

Read the selected text, Matthew 13:10-23, here.  Listen to the audio recording here.

Matthew 13:1-9

This is an interesting parable Jesus is sharing; telling the people about a farmer who is spreading the seed like all farmers do, and explaining about what happens to this seed.  It is the farmers calling to cast the seed onto the ground, but he knows that not every kernel will fall on the soil that has been prepared ahead of time.  Not every grain will germinate and take root.

Some of the seeds will be blown by the wind onto the rocky soil where it will take root quickly, then die.  Others will fall onto very shallow dirt where the sun will burn the seedling before it can grow strong. Still others will land on the path where birds will eat them.  But, some will fall on the fertile land that has been prepared in advance to accommodate the seed and to nurture and grow it up strong and study for the harvest. 

"Still other seed fell on good soil, where it produced a crop—a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown. Whoever has ears, let them hear.” (Matthew 13:8-9)

Spreading the Good News of Jesus is our God given calling.  We are responsible to tell people about Jesus and the difference He has made in our lives.  We are to be Salt and Light in a dark world by pointing to Jesus as our preservative and our illumination.  We are not accountable for these people listening or believing.  No, that is the job of the Holy Spirit. Now doesn't that take the fear out of evangelism?

Read the selected text, Matthew 13:1-9, here.  Listen to an audio version here.

Isaiah 30:19-26, 32:15-20

Sometimes our consciences can be a nuisance.  Just when we think we are on the right path or on to something good, this niggling voice in our heads begins to chatter away.  It is always wise to pause when this happens; it is good to give more consideration to our next move.

So many times I have had this fleeting feeling that something wasn't quite right.  I couldn't put my finger on it, but my heart just would not give me free rein to move forward.  Often I would ignore this sense of danger or trouble and would live to regret it.  Looking back the next day I could see very clearly the error of my ways.  But, at the time I saw only the 'I factor'.  I want to do this, I don't want to think it over, I want it now...


Remember those cartoons from childhood; the ones with the character contemplating his next move and you see a devil on one should whispering into an ear and an angel on the other doing the same in that ear.  We knew what that meant, but we were curious what would happen with both scenarios.  When this happens to me now, I recognize it as the nudging of the Holy Spirit.  This nudging can be in the way of a stop sign or as a word meant to give us permission to try something new.

Isaiah 30:21 (NIV) 
 Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, "This is the way; walk in it."




When we are close to God, in His Word daily; connecting with fellow Believers on a regular basis, God will guide us to take the right path.  We will understand right from wrong because we understand Scriptures.  We will seek Godly counsel from our accountability and/or prayer partner.  When we listen up, there will always be that voice saying, "This is the way; walk in it."

Read the selected text, Isaiah 30:19-26, 32:15-20, here.  Listen to an audio version here.

Luke 11:33-36

Small Lamp…Big Light
Today’s reading is short on words, but long on meaning. The scripture title is, “The Lamp of the Body.” It says, “Your eye is the lamp of your body. When your eyes are good, your whole body also is full of light. But when they are bad, your body also is full of darkness. See to it, then, that the light within you is not darkness…..”

SEE TO IT, THEN, THAT THE LIGHT WITHIN YOU IS NOT DARKNESS. This has nothing to do with our ability to see. I know someone without sight, who is more full of light and promise than most others I have ever met. My world finds me surrounded by individuals with disabilities of varying types and degrees, as I am a special education teacher. Many of the students I have the privilege of working with shine daily in God’s love. I have also been in the company of several whose time on this earth was coming to an end. Their sincere hope and trust in the Lord honestly made them glow.

It is up to us what we choose to reflect through our existence, but it is clear what God directs us to do. “See to it, then, that the light within you is not darkness.” God doesn’t tell us that if we’re having a good day we should shine, but if not, it’s ok to be gloomy and dark. He says, “See to it……” because it’s not about us, it’s about others and what we can do to share the good news of Christ. We can do this from right where we are. We don’t have to be a preacher or missionary. We are to be who God intended us to be, and shine His light through the body He gave us. “This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine…………….”

Connect to today's reading here

Revelation 21:22-22:5

"I did not see a temple in the city, because the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are its temple."   (Revelation 21:22) 


As it gets close to the one year anniversary of my husband's death, I find myself thinking about him often.  Reading these verses from Revelation only enhances those thoughts.  The picture John paints when he is describing the New Jerusalem is breathtaking, and just knowing someday I will be standing with Dave taking in this amazing scene is more than my heart and mind can embrace.

"Nothing impure will ever enter it, nor will anyone who does what is shameful or deceitful, but only those whose names are written in the Lamb’s book of life." (Revelation 21:27)

I had been told that the Book of Revelation is not something to fear--a scary story, but it is a love story.  This book is a story of the treasure awaiting you and me which has been provided by God, because of His great love for us. We are guaranteed to partake in this treasure if our names are in this book.  As Believers, we know our name is there.

"The city does not need the sun or the moon to shine on it, for the glory of God gives it light, and the Lamb is its lamp." (Revelation 21:23)

Imagine a world without the need of a night-light.  No more stumbling around in the darkness because the Light of the World surrounds us 24/7.  An exciting aspect of the life in Heaven is the picture I get of a bustling and busy world.  There is no sitting around contemplating stuff; there is joy, peace and love everywhere.  A perpetual party of praise and thanksgiving, a joyous reunion of loved ones, and days filled with action and awesome, colorful, continuous relationships. 

The New Jerusalem will be a place where our memories and our love will still be who we are.  A great blessing will be that we are in the presence of God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit and our life will be complete.

Read the Revelation 21:22-22:5 text here.  Listen to an audio version of Revelation 21:22-22:5 here.

Matthew 5:13-16

My dog, Asa, and I were walking one of our routes today and I found trash strewn on the road.  It seemed like someone had deliberately thrown it out of their car window.  There was a pizza box, a Subway wrapper, Dairy Queen Cups and a Wal-Mart plastic bag.  I was appalled that someone would dare mar this beautiful country side with their garbage.  So, on the return trek, I picked up the Wal-Mart bag and proceeded to gather up the offending debris, returning the roadway to its original pristine state.

As I was reviewing the scripture for today's devotional I thought about this experience today.  At first I was disgusted with the behavior of people, the total lack of respect for others and for nature.  Then I tried to justify their actions but couldn't.  Finally I realized it was up to me to do something about it.  Finding a common thread from the trash to the lesson today may seem a stretch to some reading this, but it was obvious to me.

 "You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house.  In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:14-16)

As a Christian, I am to be the salt of the earth.  As a disciple of Jesus I am to be a preservative in this world, not conforming to worldly behavior.  It is not up to me to condemn the actions of the litterer; it is up to me to do the next right thing--pick up the trash and pray for the offenders.  When I practice being salt and light when no one sees me, perhaps practice will make perfect and my actions will reflect my heart when others might notice.

Read the Matthew 5:13-16 text here.  Listen to an audio recording of Matthew 5:13-16 here.

John 8:12-30

Is it only children who are afraid of the dark? Even grown-ups grow timid when the lights are out; even adults walk slower and step lightly when darkness surrounds their path.  And what it is about the dark that makes us fearful?

What does light do for us that darkness does not?  If you have ever been in the woods, somewhere far away from the city, one of the first things you will notice is how dark it gets at night.  There are no city lights, no street lights, to provide illumination, it is just plain black.  The first thing we do is get out the flashlights or stoke up the campfire.  We are seeking the safety only light will provide.  When there is light we step with confidence.  When there is light we do not fear the imaginary life form waiting in the darkness.

"When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” (John 8:12)

The Believer is confident when he steps out in faith because he has the Light of the World exposing the darkness around him and his path is made clear.  We can see where we are going and we can easily see the One we are following.  When the storms of life cause the power to go out, we can still maneuver because we have the Light of Life to guide us.  When crisis causes us to misstep as if in darkness, we only need open our eyes and lift our heads toward the heavens.

Read the John 8:12-30 text here.  Listen to an audio reading of John 8:12-30 here.

John 1:1-14

The following verses are some of the most poetic lines in Scripture.  Having just finished the Christmas season the meaning of these Words ring familiar.  Monday we read in the first chapter of Genesis, "In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. Today we are called to the beginning once again where we discover in the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.


John 1:1-5 (NIV) reads like bullet points / a parallel with Genesis 1

• In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 
•  He was with God in the beginning. 
•  Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. 
•  In him was life, and that life was the light of men. 
•  The light shines in the darkness, but the darkness has not understood it. 

Can you identify when God became real to you?  Do you know when the Word became real to you?  I recognized there was a God early in life, as a very young child.  Like many children do, I grew up and found myself in a place where I still believed, but that belief meant nothing to me, until, someone allowed themselves to be used by God to reach me.  Has this happened to you?  Is this a story you should be telling so as to impact someone else with the Good News? 

Everyday is a day to proclaim the Gospel; to tell some one about the light that shines in your life.  There are many ways to do this, and today is the day to begin.  No one is guaranteed a tomorrow.



Read the John 1:1-14 text here.  Listen to an audio reading of the John 1:1-14 text here.