New Beginning Church of Philadelphia

The Reverend M.W. Couch The Reverend M.W. Couch has been preaching the “Good News” of Jesus Christ for more than ten years. But “faith without works is dead.” He is the founder and president of Christian Credit Development, a not-for-profit credit repair and mortgage brokerage service that assists individuals in gaining home ownership. Also, the author of "The Seven Irrefutable Laws Of Credit". And through strong relationships with ministers and community organizations, he has learned to “fight the good faith”: he fought for stronger gun control legislation, fought against the privatization of public schools, fought for reforms in criminal sentencing, fought against river boat and casino gambling and also fought for a city wide AIDS awareness project. With parents from Mississippi, Michael has also learned the importance of having and keeping a family. He and his wife, Tonya, are the proud and happy parents of two loving sons, My’chal and Malachi. Rev. Couch has spent many years preparing for the ministry. He has been selected two years in a row for The National Dean’s List 2005-2006 and 2006-2007. He has a degree in Biblical Studies/Urban Ministry from Geneva College, PA, Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership/Biblical Studies from Philadelphia Biblical University, PA, and currently studying at Philadelphia Biblical University Seminary a(candidate)Master of Divinity. He also did studies at Manor Jr. College and Manna Bible Institute, and Trinity College and Seminary with a concentration in Old Testament (Hebrew Bible). He completed Pastoral Internship at the Dauphin Street Baptist Church and served as Assistant to the Pastor at the Camden Bible Tabernacle. Also, he serves as Assistant Minister of the Mighty Berachah Baptist Church, under the pastoral direction of the Rev. Dr. Robert P. Shine, former president of the Philadelphia Black Clergy. Michael is a serious solider in the Lord’s army. His ministry objective reads: To advance the kingdom of Jesus Christ through leading the church in preaching, teaching, and being an example of God Amazing Grace!

Monday, August 9, 2010

FAILURE IS NOT FINAL:
BIBLE MEDITATION: Psalm 31:23 - "O love the Lord, all ye His saints: for the Lord preserveth the faithful." DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT: Ty Cobb and Babe Ruth were two of the greatest baseball players of all time. Ty Cobb was known for his record number of stolen bases, and Babe Ruth was known for his record number of home runs. What you may not know is that Ty Cobb was also thrown out more than any other man in baseball trying to steal bases. And Babe Ruth struck out more than any other man in baseball! These fellows didn't let their failures stop them, and neither should you! Fix your goal. Face your faults. Forget your failures. Failure in the Christian life is not final. ACTION POINT: Maybe you or someone you know is feeling discouraged today. Remind them or yourself of the promise in Philippians 4:13.
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Monday, August 2, 2010

CARRYING OUR BURDENS:
BIBLE MEDITATION: Psalm 55:22 - "Cast thy burden upon the Lord, and He shall sustain thee." DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT: There was a man carrying a heavy load of grain down a country road. Another man in a horse-drawn wagon saw him and said, "Mister, do you need a ride?" So the man walking got in the wagon, but he kept the load of grain on his shoulder. The wagon driver said, "Man, put that down and relax!" But the man answered, "Oh no. It's enough to ask you to carry me without having you carry this also." Have you ever done that to the Lord? You say, "Lord, I'll let You save me, but I'll carry my own burdens." How foolish we are to do this with the God who hung the stars and planets. ACTION POINT: If you can trust the Lord to save you from hell, don't you think you can cast your burden upon Him right now?
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Monday, July 26, 2010

STRONG FAITH GLORIFIES GOD:
BIBLE MEDITATION: Psalm 18:2 - "The Lord is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust." DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT: Do you know the greatest thing you could do that would give God glory? It's not to give a million dollars. It's not to give your body to be burned. It's not to go overseas as a missionary. The greatest thing you could do to glorify God is to believe God. Faith says, "God, You are trustworthy." Don't just sing about your belief in a great God or pray about your belief in a great God or even read about your belief in a great God. You must believe Him. A strong faith glorifies God! ACTION POINT: Meditate on the names of God today: Prince of Peace, Lamb of God, Bright and Morning Star, Dayspring, The Good Shepherd, Messiah, Alpha and Omega. We also invite you to read more about the Names of God.
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Monday, July 19, 2010

GRUMBLING OR GRATEFUL:
BIBLE MEDITATION: Psalm 100:4 - "Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise: be thankful unto Him, and bless His name." DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT: A preacher who was traveling by train noticed two other passengers, a well-dressed man and a magnificently dressed woman with expensive jewelry. The woman was complaining about everything -- the train ride, the weather, the news, the food, the service. The preacher decided to engage this couple in a conversation. He asked the man what kind of business he was in and the man told him. Then he asked, "What does your wife do?" He said, "Oh, she's in the manufacturing business. She manufactures her own unhappiness." There are a lot of people like that. They manufacture their misery because they fail to be grateful. Only Christ can turn our lives around and stir up a grateful heart within. ACTION POINT: Go through the alphabet and be thankful for something that begins with each letter.
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Monday, July 12, 2010

NOT ASHAMED OF THE GOSPEL OF CHRIST:
BIBLE MEDITATION: Romans 1:16 - "For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth." DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT: Are you ashamed to put a Bible on your desk at work? Are you ashamed to bow your head in the cafeteria? Are you ashamed to invite people to Jesus Christ? Are you ashamed of the One who died for you? A little boy had a dog, and somebody asked him what kind of dog he was. He was just a mongrel, but the little fellow said, "Well, he's a police dog." The friend said, "He doesn't look like a police dog." The little guy replied, "He's in the secret service." I'm afraid that there are many of us who are in the secret service. We ought to be open and bold for the gospel of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. ACTION POINT: Ask God to lead you out in strength and boldness today to live for Him and proclaim His love to others.
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Tuesday, July 6, 2010

SURRENDER FIRST:
BIBLE MEDITATION: Romans 6:19 - "... now yield your members servants to righteousness unto holiness." DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT: After a splendid victory at sea, Lord Nelson confronted the French admiral who was surrendering. The admiral, dressed in all of his regalia, approached Nelson to surrender. With his sword swinging by his side, the admiral put out his hand to the British commander. Lord Nelson stepped back and said, "Your sword first." There are a lot of people who think they can walk up and glad-hand the Lord Jesus Christ. He says, "Your sword first." Surrender first! Jesus is not an appeaser, and He will never make a truce with sin. Never! We have to abdicate the throne. We have to surrender to Him. ACTION POINT: Read Romans 6. Count the number of times the word "yield" is written. What does Paul want us to yield?
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Tuesday, June 29, 2010

GOD'S PLAN & PURPOSE FOR YOUR LIFE:
BIBLE MEDITATION: 1 John 3:2 - "Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when He shall appear, we shall be like Him; for we shall see Him as He is." DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT: If Jesus is Lord of your life, then not only is your entire life ordered, but so is every single step within your life. God has a plan for the plumber as well as the preacher, for the mechanic as well as the missionary. And if, for instance, God calls you to be a mechanic and you become a missionary, you are accepting second best! To find God's will is the highest achievement in your life. Success is not spelled M-O-N-E-Y. Nor is it spelled F-A-M-E. Success is the continuous realization of the will of God -- what God desires for your life. God does not make clones; He makes children! There is an ultimate purpose for your life as His child -- to be like Jesus. ACTION POINT: Do you have children? Share with them these important insights about their future.
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Saturday, June 26, 2010

JUST KEEP PRAYING:
BIBLE MEDITATION: Romans 8:26 - "Likewise the Spirit also helps our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered." DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT: There's an old song with the refrain "Just keep on praying 'til light breaks through." When you don't feel like praying, that's when you need to. You need to pray until you do feel like praying. You see, you're not praying by yourself. The Spirit is praying through you and for you, helping to present your petitions to the Father -- petitions that perhaps you yourself are not even capable of expressing. Do not approach God with your hands full of the brass of your emotions. Rather, approach Him with hands and heart full of the sweet incense of His worth. Just keep praying. ACTION POINT: How's your prayer life? Do you say grace before meals and squeeze in a quick prayer before you drop off to sleep each night? Take some time today to talk to the Lord.
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Friday, June 11, 2010

SECRET FAULTS:
BIBLE MEDITATION: Psalm 19:12 - "Who can understand his errors? Cleanse thou me from secret faults." DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT: I read an account of Michelangelo's painting of the Sistine Chapel. In the story, he was painting in a corner behind everyone's view, and someone said to him, "Forget that area, nobody can see it anyway." But Michelangelo replied, "I know it's there." What you are in secret is what you are -- nothing more or nothing less. Through the years I've spoken with men and women who travel a lot, and in almost every motel there are R-rated and X-rated films available. "Nobody's in here but me," they say. Are you sure? Jesus is in that room. What you are in that room when you think no one is around is what you really are. ACTION POINT: Do you struggle with the secret sins of the flesh? Read Isaiah 29:15, Ezekiel 8:12, and Ecclesiastes 12:14. Then pray Psalm 19:12.
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Monday, May 31, 2010

OBEDIENCE IN TITHING:
BIBLE MEDITATION: Matthew 25:21 - "His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy Lord." DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT: A man spoke to his pastor one day and said, "I don't know what's wrong, but God is not real to me anymore." The wise pastor asked, "Is there any sin in your life?" In a moment of honesty the man responded, "Years ago I was tithing regularly to God, but one day I thought, 'God doesn't need the money as much as I do,' so I stopped." The pastor said, "Will God say, 'My child has disobeyed Me. He cannot trust Me with his resources, so I think I'll bless him with even more financial resources.' Will God do this?" Absolutely not. If you're not faithful with little, He won't bless you with any more. ACTION POINT: Are you faithfully tithing your income to the work of the Lord? If not, it's time to.
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Wednesday, May 12, 2010

TAMING THE TONGUE:
BIBLE MEDITATION: Proverbs 10:19 - "In the multitude of words there wanteth not sin: but he that refraineth his lips is wise." DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT: Your tongue can get you into a lot of trouble. There is nothing that can do more damage to your relationships than your words. Proverbs 17:27 says, "He that hath knowledge spareth his words." That is, if you're smart, you won't talk so much. When you do talk, keep your words warm and sweet because you may have to eat them. There's an old saying I heard a Rabbi use once that reminds us: "The ears are open and out. They're unguarded, but the tongue is behind ivory bars." When you're talking, you're not learning. When you're not learning, you're not communicating. When you're not communicating, there will be no intimacy in your relationships. ACTION POINT: In what ways has your mouth gotten you into trouble this week? Confess those times before the Lord and ask for strength and wisdom to be a better communicator.
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Saturday, May 8, 2010

ONE PLUS ONE EQUALS ONE:
BIBLE MEDITATION: Matthew 19:6 - "Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder." DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT: Do you know what is wrong with many marriages? Husbands treat their wives like a new car. When it's new, he shows it off; and then when it gets old and the paint fades a little bit, he trades her in for a new model. Are you a married man? Then you are to satisfy her needs and share your life with her. That means all that you are and all that you have is for her! God's arithmetic is one plus one equals one! There's no part of our lives that we do not share. Are you the strong, independent type? Then you're not like Jesus, who shared unconditionally and sacrificially with you. ACTION POINT: This week, make it a priority to give something sacrificially to your wife. It may be your time. It may be a possession. It may be a word of encouragement that she needs.
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Monday, April 26, 2010

SEIZING OPPORTUNITIES TO SERVE:
BIBLE MEDITATION: Galatians 6:10 - "As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith." DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT: Do you remember the story of the Good Samaritan in Luke 10:30-37? He was on a journey but stopped and helped a bruised and broken man. He didn't make excuses saying, "It's none of my business." It was a golden moment, and he took it. All around you are people who need the compassion of Christ. They need you to see their pain as a golden opportunity to serve them in the name of Jesus. The chief enemy to kindness is busyness. We have our priorities, our jobs, our duties, our responsibilities, and we're too busy. But if we're too busy to be kind, we're too busy. ACTION POINT: What's on your schedule for today? If someone had a flat tire, could you fix it? If someone called and needed a ride to the hospital, could you take them? Clear the way for Jesus, my friend.
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Tuesday, April 13, 2010

HIDE ME, O MY SAVIOR:
BIBLE MEDITATION: Psalm 17:8 - "Keep me as the apple of the eye, ... hide me under the shadow of Thy wings." DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT: Charles Wesley was walking through the woods on a stormy day when a lightning storm broke out and the rain began to come down in torrents. A bolt of lightning flashed and a little bird was so frightened that it flew down to Wesley and tried to hide in his coat. He was so moved by the scene that he wrote a song we often sing: "Jesus, lover of my soul, let me to Thy bosom fly, while the nearer waters roll, while the tempest still is high. Hide me, O my Savior, hide, 'til the storm of life is past; safe unto the haven guide, O receive my soul at last." That's what our Lord does. He hides us, sustains us, and keeps us. ACTION POINT: Are the storms of life raging around you? Hide yourself in the dark clouds they are just the shadow of His wing.
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Monday, April 5, 2010

THE GLORIOUS EMPTY TOMB:
BIBLE MEDITATION: Ephesians 2:6 - "And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus." DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT: Why is the empty tomb so glorious? Because it signifies more than just the fact that God raised Jesus from the dead. He raised you, too, to walk "in newness of life" (see Romans 6:4). I have come out of that grave. I have ascended. You have, too, if you are saved. Where is Christ today? Seated in the heavenlies. Where are you seated? In the same place. You don't have to die to go to heaven. In Christ, you are seated in the heavenlies right now. We encourage our brothers and sisters by telling them to keep looking up, when we should be saying, "Keep looking down!" You're already seated in the heavenlies, so you can look down on your problems. You, dear friend, have a brand new life! ACTION POINT: Take a moment and ask God to give you a brand new life or thank Him for the one He has already given you.
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Monday, March 29, 2010

FIDELITY, A MULTI-FACETED TRAIT OF CHARACTER:
BIBLE MEDITATION: Hebrews 13:4 - "Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge." DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT: I'm continually amazed at the apathetic responses to surveys where people are asked, "Does it make any difference to you whether a candidate is faithful to his wife or not?" Or, "Would you vote for a man that was unfaithful to his wife?" And they say, "It doesn't matter." Well friend, it makes a difference to me, and more importantly, it makes a difference to God. When couples break solemn vows -- unless they repent with every ounce of their hearts -- trust is broken. Put it down big, plain, and straight: People who treat sex lightly will treat other people lightly. ACTION POINT: Are you married? Find some time today to express to your spouse your love and faithful commitment to him or her.
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Wednesday, March 24, 2010

OBAMA'S 90 ACCOMPLISHMENTS:
I am always being asked to grade Obama’s presidency. In place of offering him a grade, I put together a list of his accomplishments thus far. I think you would agree that it is very impressive. His first six months have been even more active than FDRs or LBJs the two standards for such assessments. Yet, there is little media attention given to much of what he has done. Of late, the media is focusing almost exclusively on Obama’s critics, without holding them responsible for the uncivil, unconstructive tone of their disagreements or without holding the previous administration responsible for getting us in such a deep hole. The misinformation and venom that now passes for political reporting and civic debate is beyond description. As such, there is a need to set the record straight. What most impresses me is the fact that Obama has accomplished so much not from a heavy-handed or top-down approach but from a style that has institutionalized efforts to reach across the aisle, encourage vigorous debate, and utilize town halls and panels of experts in the policy-making process. Beyond the accomplishments, the process is good for democracy and our democratic processes have been battered and bruised in recent years. Let me know if I missed anything in the list (surely I did). Robert 1. Ordered all federal agencies to undertake a study and make recommendations for ways to cut spending 2. Ordered a review of all federal operations to identify and cut wasteful spending and practices 3. Instituted enforcement for equal pay for women 4. Beginning the withdrawal of US troops from Iraq 5. Families of fallen soldiers have expenses covered to be on hand when the body arrives at Dover AFB 6. Ended media blackout on war casualties; reporting full information 7. Ended media blackout on covering the return of fallen soldiers to Dover AFB; the media is now permitted to do so pending adherence to respectful rules and approval of fallen soldier’s family 8. The White House and federal government are respecting the Freedom of Information Act 9. Instructed all federal agencies to promote openness and transparency as much as possible 10. Limits on lobbyist’s access to the White House 11. Limits on White House aides working for lobbyists after their tenure in the administration 12. Ended the previous stop-loss policy that kept soldiers in Iraq/Afghanistan longer than their enlistment date 13. Phasing out the expensive F-22 war plane and other outdated weapons systems, which weren’t even used or needed in Iraq/Afghanistan 14. Removed restrictions on embryonic stem-cell research 15. Federal support for stem-cell and new biomedical research 16. New federal funding for science and research labs 17. States are permitted to enact federal fuel efficiency standards above federal standards 18. Increased infrastructure spending (roads, bridges, power plants) after years of neglect 19. Funds for high-speed, broadband Internet access to K-12 schools 20. New funds for school construction 21. The prison at Guantanamo Bay is being phased out 22. US Auto industry rescue plan 23. Housing rescue plan 24. $789 billion economic stimulus plan 25. The public can meet with federal housing insurers to refinance (the new plan can be completed in one day) a mortgage if they are having trouble paying 26. US financial and banking rescue plan 27. The secret detention facilities in Eastern Europe and elsewhere are being closed 28. Ended the previous policy; the US now has a no torture policy and is in compliance with the Geneva Convention standards 29. Better body armor is now being provided to our troops 30. The missile defense program is being cut by $1.4 billion in 2010 31. Restarted the nuclear nonproliferation talks and building back up the nuclear inspection infrastructure/protocols 32. Reengaged in the treaties/agreements to protect the Antarctic 33. Reengaged in the agreements/talks on global warming and greenhouse gas emissions 34. Visited more countries and met with more world leaders than any president in his first six months in office 35. Successful release of US captain held by Somali pirates; authorized the SEALS to do their job 36. US Navy increasing patrols off Somali coast 37. Attractive tax write-offs for those who buy hybrid automobiles 38. Cash for clunkers program offers vouchers to trade in fuel inefficient, polluting old cars for new cars; stimulated auto sales 39. Announced plans to purchase fuel efficient American-made fleet for the federal government 40. Expanded the SCHIP program to cover health care for 4 million more children 41. Signed national service legislation; expanded national youth service program 42. Instituted a new policy on Cuba, allowing Cuban families to return home to visit loved ones 43. Ended the previous policy of not regulating and labeling carbon dioxide emissions 44. Expanding vaccination programs 45. Immediate and efficient response to the floods in North Dakota and other natural disasters 46. Closed offshore tax safe havens 47. Negotiated deal with Swiss banks to permit US government to gain access to records of tax evaders and criminals 48. Ended the previous policy of offering tax benefits to corporations who outsource American jobs; the new policy is to promote in-sourcing to bring jobs back 49. Ended the previous practice of protecting credit card companies; in place of it are new consumer protections from credit card industry’s predatory practices 50. Energy producing plants must begin preparing to produce 15% of their energy from renewable sources 51. Lower drug costs for seniors 52. Ended the previous practice of forbidding Medicare from negotiating with drug manufacturers for cheaper drugs; the federal government is now realizing hundreds of millions in savings 53. Increasing pay and benefits for military personnel 54. Improved housing for military personnel 55. Initiating a new policy to promote federal hiring of military spouses 56. Improved conditions at Walter Reed Military Hospital and other military hospitals 57. Increasing student loans 58. Increasing opportunities in AmeriCorps program 59. Sent envoys to Middle East and other parts of the world that had been neglected for years; reengaging in multilateral and bilateral talks and diplomacy 60. Established a new cyber security office 61. Beginning the process of reforming and restructuring the military 20 years after the Cold War to a more modern fighting force; this includes new procurement policies, increasing size of military, new technology and cyber units and operations, etc. 62. Ended previous policy of awarding no-bid defense contracts 63. Ordered a review of hurricane and natural disaster preparedness 64. Established a National Performance Officer charged with saving the federal government money and making federal operations more efficient 65. Students struggling to make college loan payments can have their loans refinanced 66. Improving benefits for veterans 67. Many more press conferences and town halls and much more media access than previous administration 68. Instituted a new focus on mortgage fraud 69. The FDA is now regulating tobacco 70. Ended previous policy of cutting the FDA and circumventing FDA rules 71. Ended previous practice of having White House aides rewrite scientific and environmental rules, regulations, and reports 72. Authorized discussions with North Korea and private mission by Pres. Bill Clinton to secure the release of two Americans held in prisons 73. Authorized discussions with Myanmar and mission by Sen. Jim Web to secure the release of an American held captive 74. Making more loans available to small businesses 75. Established independent commission to make recommendations on slowing the costs of Medicare 76. Appointment of first Latina to the Supreme Court 77. Authorized construction/opening of additional health centers to care for veterans 78. Limited salaries of senior White House aides; cut to $100,000 79. Renewed loan guarantees for Israel 80. Changed the failing/status quo military command in Afghanistan 81. Deployed additional troops to Afghanistan 82. New Afghan War policy that limits aerial bombing and prioritizes aid, development of infrastructure, diplomacy, and good government practices by Afghans 83. Announced the long-term development of a national energy grid with renewable sources and cleaner, efficient energy production 84. Returned money authorized for refurbishment of White House offices and private living quarters 85. Paid for redecoration of White House living quarters out of his own pocket 86. Held first Seder in White House 87. Attempting to reform the nation’s healthcare system which is the most expensive in the world yet leaves almost 50 million without health insurance and millions more under insured 88. Has put the ball in play for comprehensive immigration reform 89. Has announced his intention to push for energy reform 90. Has announced his intention to push for education reform Oh, and he built a swing set for the girls outside the Oval Office!
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Monday, March 22, 2010

PEACE, BE STILL:
BIBLE MEDITATION: Mark 4:39 - "And He arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm." DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT: Remember when Jesus was with his disciples on the Sea of Galilee and a storm came upon them? The lightning began to play in the wind. The sea churned, and the gentle winds turned into a cruel gale. The little ship was tossed like a cork. The disciples despaired and said to the Lord Jesus Christ who was asleep, "Don't You care if we perish? Do something!" Jesus said, "Peace, be still," and the winds ceased and the sea calmed. This world is headed into a storm, and the spiritual barometer is dropping. Our world will not know peace until Jesus, the Prince of Peace, comes and says, "Peace, be still." ACTION POINT: Read the full account of what happened to the disciples in Mark 4:36-41. What application can you give to your life?
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Monday, March 15, 2010

FAITHFUL IN LITTLE & MUCH:
BIBLE MEDITATION: Luke 16:10 - "He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much." DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT: What would you do if you had a million dollars? Well, let me tell you a good test of what you would do -- it's what you're doing with that hundred dollars you have right now. Are you saving it? Spending it? Sharing it? The test of what you would do in the spiritual realm is seen by what you do in the physical realm. Many of us do not have spiritual blessings because we simply haven't been faithful with the small things in our lives. ACTION POINT: Are you hoping for something in your life? How could you be faithful in something little so that you'll be faithful when the other comes along?
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Monday, March 8, 2010

GOD KEEPS THE SCORE:
Ephesians 4:32 - "And be kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake has forgiven you." DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT: I read something that deeply touched my heart about a PGA golfer named DiVincenzo. As he was leaving a golf course with his winnings, a woman approached him and said, "I have a baby who is dying." Moved with compassion, he endorsed the check and gave it to her saying, "Take this, and try to buy some happiness for yourself and your child." A week later, he was in the clubhouse having lunch, and one of the PGA officials came up to him and said, "Did you know that the woman who approached you last week didn't have a baby dying of an incurable disease!" And DiVincenzo said, "There's no baby dying? That's the best news I've heard all week!" What an attitude! ACTION POINT: Do you ever feel like people are going to take advantage of you? Be thankful today that God keeps the score.
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Monday, March 1, 2010

FAILURE IS NOT FINAL:
BIBLE MEDITATION: Psalm 31:23 - "O love the Lord, all ye His saints: for the Lord preserveth the faithful." DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT: Ty Cobb and Babe Ruth were two of the greatest baseball players of all time. Ty Cobb was known for his record number of stolen bases, and Babe Ruth was known for his record number of home runs. What you may not know is that Ty Cobb was also thrown out more than any other man in baseball trying to steal bases. And Babe Ruth struck out more than any other man in baseball! These fellows didn't let their failures stop them, and neither should you! Fix your goal. Face your faults. Forget your failures. Failure in the Christian life is not final. ACTION POINT: Maybe you or someone you know is feeling discouraged today. Remind them or yourself of the promise in Philippians 4:13.
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Monday, February 8, 2010

NOT ASHAMED OFTHE GOSPEL OFCHRIST
Romans 1:16 - "For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth." DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT: Are you ashamed to put a Bible on your desk at work? Are you ashamed to bow your head in the cafeteria? Are you ashamed to invite people to Jesus Christ? Are you ashamed of the One who died for you? A little boy had a dog, and somebody asked him what kind of dog he was. He was just a mongrel, but the little fellow said, "Well, he's a police dog." The friend said, "He doesn't look like a police dog." The little guy replied, "He's in the secret service." I'm afraid that there are many of us who are in the secret service. We ought to be open and bold for the gospel of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. ACTION POINT: Ask God to lead you out in strength and boldness today to live for Him and proclaim His love to others.
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Monday, February 1, 2010

THE CROSS OF JESUS BRIDGES THE GREAT DIVIDE:
BIBLE MEDITATION: Ephesians 2:16 - "And that He might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby." DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT: Up in heaven is the holy God; down below is the sinful man. And sin is the dividing rod that separates. Man has an empty void, so man is constantly trying to reach God. But he keeps rebounding off the sin barrier. Then God, moved in mercy by the pitiful plight of sinful man, said, "I will do something." God sent His Son, the Lord Jesus, to make a way. And upon the rough hewn timbers of a cross, Jesus gave His life so you and I could live forever and live forgiven. Jesus built a bridge between man and God. It's a bridge man could never build and a bridge that man can never take away. God made a way that we couldn't make -- for you and for me. ACTION POINT: Since Jesus built a bridge of love for you to be reconciled to God, it's your turn to build a bridge of love to someone who is lost and searching.
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Monday, January 25, 2010

JEHOVAH JIREH, OUR PROVIDER:
BIBLE MEDITATION: Matthew 14:14 - "And Jesus went forth, and saw a great multitude, and was moved with compassion toward them, and He healed their sick." DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT: It is the unbelievable, supernatural replenishment that awakens the world to see the mighty power of God. Jesus demonstrated, once with a crowd of 5,000 and again with a crowd of 4,000, that He is the God who provides (see Matthew 14:14-21, 15:32-38). When the most "responsible" thing to do, in human terms, was to ask the multitudes to find their own food, Jesus turned to the supernatural power of God. Moved with compassion, He confidently told the disciples to begin feeding the multitudes. Jesus never wavered in His complete and utter trust in Jehovah Jireh. ACTION POINT: Read the accounts of these miracles in Matthew with your family today, then ask God to fill your family with an utter and complete trust in Jehovah Jireh.
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Monday, January 18, 2010

REJOICING AT THE LORD'S TABLE:
BIBLE MEDITATION: John 21:12a - "Jesus saith unto them, Come and dine." DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT: Is Satan whispering that God is not for you in your daily battles? Is he whispering lies that God is going to erase your name from the Book of Life for something you've done, yet repented over? Satan never had it so wrong! And Jesus never had it so right! Salvation in Christ is not a funeral, but a feast! The Bible is a continual feast from Genesis right through to Revelation. Covenant meals and meals of fellowship are frequent occurrences in Scripture. Our Shepherd, the Lord Jesus, has given many examples of His open invitation to be replenished and restored, to remember, and to rejoice at His table. ACTION POINT: Call your family together and celebrate the Lord's Supper this week as a family...remembering the powerful promise of His resurrection, replenishment, and restoration.
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Wednesday, January 13, 2010

BURDENS & TRAILS A NECESSITY:
BIBLE MEDITATION: James 1:3 - "Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience." DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT: A man had a grandfather clock. One day he felt sorry for the grandfather clock because it had a weight on it, and that weight was always pulling on the clock. The man said, "Oh, Mr. Clock, you've held this weight so long; I'm going to remove it and let you rest." The clock protested, saying, "Don't take that weight from me. That's what keeps me going." In the same way, the trials and tests of life are there for your endurance. They're to keep you going, keep you trusting, keep you praying, and keep you depending upon God. ACTION POINT: When was the last time you shared with someone that they need to be thankful for their trials? When was the last time you told yourself that?
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Tuesday, January 5, 2010

FOREVER IN HIS HEART:
BIBLE MEDITATION: 1 Peter 5:6-7 - "Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time: Casting all your care upon Him, for He careth for you." DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT: When God brought us into this universe, He did not make us to abandon us. When God finished His first creation, He stepped back and said, "It is good." But then sin came into the world, and we broke fellowship with our Creator. Because of His great love and mercy toward us, God sent His only Son to bring us back to Himself. Now, when we are saved, we become a new creation, and God says, "It is good." When sin soiled your garments, God sent the righteous robes of His Son for you to wear. Now you are washed in His blood, clean in His sight, and forever in His heart. ACTION POINT: Take a look in the mirror. Are you dressed in the robes of man or the King? Humble yourself under His mighty hand that He may lift you up.
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Monday, December 28, 2009

MEETING SOCIAL & SPIRITUAL NEEDS:
BIBLE MEDITATION: John 6:35 - "And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on Me shall never thirst." DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT: Sometimes people in large churches get a lot of grief from "the world" because of the great expenses of building and maintaining their church. I've heard, "Why didn't they take that money and feed the poor?" Here's my answer, "People need Jesus." The social gospel thinks all men need is food. If I had five billion dollars and bought everybody on earth a snack; in several hours, they'd all be hungry again. There's nothing wrong with feeding the poor. We ought to do that. But the social gospel puts an emphasis on what is temporary. The true gospel puts the emphasis upon what is eternal. Folks need more than soup and soap; they need salvation. ACTION POINT: Think about ways that you can get involved with the needs to feed, clothe, and house the homeless. Then also find the open door to feed them with the Bread of Life, Jesus Christ.
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Friday, December 25, 2009

THE GREATEST GIFT OF LOVE:
BIBLE MEDITATION: John 3:16 - "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life." DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT: Christmas is spelled L-O-V-E. What is the Christmas message? John 3:16. God gave us the gift of love on Christmas Day. It is truly said, "What the world needs now is love." I need it. You need it. Your spouse needs it. Your child needs it. An elderly man or woman sitting alone in a nursing home today needs it. A child abandoned and alone in a children's home needs it, too. God sent His one and only Son as the Savior. He knew we couldn't save ourselves. So He sent His Son to be born in a manger, to die on a cross, to rise again into glory, and to come again to redeem His church. ACTION POINT: Where are you spending your Christmas day? Maybe you can spare a few minutes with your family and friends to share His gift of love with someone who is all alone today.
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Monday, December 14, 2009

LIGHT OF HOPE IN A DARK WORLD:
BIBLE MEDITATION: Isaiah 9:2 - "The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light: they that dwell in the land of the shadow of death, upon them hath the light shined." DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT: Imagine being in a cave without a flashlight. Can you see any shadows? You cannot even see your hand! Shadows are only visible in the presence of light. Regardless of how dark, how large, how absolutely ominous a shadow appears, it is only there because there is light. David says, "Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil." Why? Because "Thou art with me; Thy rod and Thy staff they comfort me" (Psalm 23:4). Jesus has taken the sting out of sin and the fear out of the grave. He has empowered us with the Holy Spirit to give us confidence that He will always be with us and watch over us. ACTION POINT: During the Christmas holidays there are many who are grieving the loss of loved ones. Pray for them. Send them a note of hope and include 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17.
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Monday, December 7, 2009

TURN YOUR EYES UPON JESUS:
BIBLE MEDITATION: Mark 11:22 - "And Jesus answering saith unto them, Have faith in God." DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT: I ask some Christians, "How are you doing?" They say, "Okay under the circumstances." How did you ever get there? Circumstances are like a mattress. You're supposed to be on it, not under it. Under the circumstances, you suffocate; on them you rest pretty well. The only way that you can run the race is to take your eyes off things or people around you and look unto Jesus. He's the author of the race. He's the goal to which you run. If you look unto Jesus to supply your every need for the race, you'll find faith growing in your heart and in your life. You see, it's not great faith in God; it is faith in a great God. ACTION POINT: Do you have a hymnal in your home? Find the hymn "Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus" by Helen Lemmel or click on the title here to go to Cyber Hymnal and reflect on its message.
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Monday, November 30, 2009

HE IS THE GREAT I AM:
BIBLE MEDITATION: Exodus 3:14 - "And God said unto Moses, I AM that I AM: and He said, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, I AM hath sent me unto you." DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT: Have you ever noticed that the title God chose to describe Himself is an incomplete sentence? Now, most people would finish that sentence, "I am..." but not our Lord. He purposefully did not complete the sentence. "I AM." He is. Are you hungry? He is the bread. Are you in the dark? He is the light. Are you searching? He is the truth. Are you lost? He is the way. Are you in need? He is your Shepherd. ACTION POINT: What need are you looking to God to meet today? Trust Him right now to meet you there.
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Monday, November 23, 2009

GRACED BY HIS PRAYERS:
BIBLE MEDITATION: Hebrews 7:25 - "Wherefore He is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by Him, seeing He ever liveth to make intercession for them." DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT: Do you ever feel you are all alone when a struggle hits your life? Tell yourself, "I am graced by His prayers." Jesus is watching over you, and He is praying for you. The Savior. The Shepherd. The King. The Prince. He is praying for you! Do you feel encouraged? I do! Just to know that the One who died for me "ever liveth to make intercession" for me is enough. He lives to stand in the gap for you and for me. What a mighty God we serve! What mercy we don't deserve! You are on Jesus' prayer list! You. He knows you. And He is praying you through the eye of the storm. ACTION POINT: Do you have a prayer list? Go through that list today and pray for someone you haven't prayed for in awhile and trust God to answer, even today!
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Monday, November 16, 2009

BIBLICAL HOPE, A FIRM CERTAINTY:
BIBLE MEDITATION: Psalm 71:5 - "For Thou art my hope, O Lord God: Thou art my trust from my youth." DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT: What does the word "hope" mean in the Bible? It doesn't mean "maybe." We may use it that way in Modern English, but that's not what the word "hope" means in the Bible. "Hope" means certainty, but not just any certainty. It is rock-ribbed assurance with anticipation based on the Word of God. When I was a little boy, my dad would take us out for a ride on Sunday afternoon. We kids would be in the back seat getting into squabbles. If things got too heated, my dad would turn around and say, "When you boys get home, I'm going to whip you." With my dad, I knew this was a rock-ribbed truth! Our hope, however, is glad anticipation! ACTION POINT: Share the hope of eternal life in Jesus Christ with someone today. Maybe there's someone at the hospital who needs a word of hope. Maybe it's a member of your family!
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Monday, November 9, 2009

THE REASON WE ARE STRESSED:
BIBLE MEDITATION: Matthew 6:30 - "Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is cast into the oven, shall He not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith?" DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT: Do you know the reason we are stressed? Because we think our needs are not going to be met. We say, "Oh my goodness, I'm not going to have what I need!" Jesus tells us not to worry about what you are going to eat. And don't worry about what you are going to wear. He's saying only one thing is important -- His righteousness. These things don't even take significance until your deepest needs are met. You are to find your satisfaction in Him. If you don't find your satisfaction in Him, you're going to be stressed. ACTION POINT: Are you stressed out about something today? Turn it over to Jesus and turn your focus to Him. Let Jesus meet your needs and transform your heart today.
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Friday, November 6, 2009

IT'S ALL ABOUT JESUS:
BIBLE MEDITATION: Isaiah 53:5 - "But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon Him; and with His stripes we are healed." DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT: The thing I love about the Old Testament is the thing I love about the New Testament. The Old Testament and the New Testament both are the inspired Word of God. Don't get the idea that the Old Testament has a message different from the New Testament. All of the Bible is about Jesus. If you read the Bible and you don't find Jesus, you better go reread it. Somebody may ask if you have read the four gospels, and you can answer them, "I've read all sixty-six!" From Genesis to Revelation, it has the same villain -- Satan. It has the same hero -- Jesus. It has the same purpose -- to present salvation in no other name but Jesus. ACTION POINT: Read Isaiah 53. What are the prophecies that were fulfilled in the life of Christ?
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Thursday, November 5, 2009

THE WAKE-UP CALL:
BIBLE MEDITATION: Romans 13:11 - "And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed." DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT: Do you know what Napoleon said about China? "There lies a sleeping giant, and let him sleep, because if he awakens, he will shake the world." I believe the devil says that about the church of the Lord Jesus Christ. And I believe the church is just that--a sleeping giant. We're asleep because we've been chloroformed by the spirit of this age. We're bombarded on every side by all kinds of amusement. Do you know what "amuse" means? It's a combination of two words. "Muse" means to think, and the alpha prefix in front of it means "not to." We are a generation that is "a-musing" ourselves into oblivion. And it's time to wake up! ACTION POINT: Are you taking the Christian life seriously? If this were your last day on Earth, how would you spend it? In amusement? Or in evangelism?
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Monday, November 2, 2009

PRAYING IN SECRETS:
BIBLE MEDITATION: Matthew 6:6 - "But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly." DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT: What did our Lord mean when He said, "Enter into your closet to pray?" The word "closet" simply means some place where you can shut the door on the world and open the windows to heaven. As you study the life of Jesus, you'll discover that Jesus sought times to be alone. Sometimes He would go on a mountain, sometimes into the wilderness, and sometimes into a garden. It is the secret place that is the sacred place. The mark of your prayer life is not really how well you pray in public, but how well you pray in private. ACTION POINT: When you enter your closet to pray, spend some time in silence. Clear your mind. Then listen for His Words of edification, encouragement, and exhortation.
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Tuesday, October 27, 2009

HANDLING THE STING OF CRITICISM:
BIBLE MEDITATION: Galatians 2:20 - "I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave Himself for me." DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT: God loves you so much that Jesus Christ hung in agony and blood for you. You are precious to God. You are the object of God's love. The blood of Jesus Christ was poured out on Calvary for you. Friend, if you know all that, then you can stand up against any criticism. It won't bother you what others say about you. The cross sets you free. He who died for you now lives in you. He gave Himself for you that He might give Himself to you. When Jesus Christ died for you, He didn't just take away your sins, He took away yourself. You are crucified. So who can harm a dead man? ACTION POINT: Have you felt the sting of criticism this week? Remove the stinger and bathe the wound with the balm of Jesus' love. Give your critic to the Lord. Then ask God to teach you from what happened.
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Monday, October 19, 2009

PROCRASTINATION IS A SIN:
BIBLE MEDITATION: James 4:17 - "Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin." DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT: Are you one of those people who believes "Put off until tomorrow what you could be doing today"? This is one of those times when the fingers pointing back at me outnumber the one that's pointing to you! What am I talking about? Procrastination. Did you know that procrastination is a sin? I say that because sin is not merely doing wrong, it is failing to do what you ought to do. Procrastination and disobedience are just different shades of the same sin. I heard a quote once that said it well: "When you have a job to do, begin this very hour. You supply the will, God supplies the power." That is the will power we need to instantly obey! ACTION POINT: Has a certain task been hounding you? Confess your procrastination as sin. And act now. Don't hesitate. Yesterday is gone. Tomorrow may never come. Today is the day!
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Tuesday, October 13, 2009

SHARE A SMILE TODAY:
BIBLE MEDITATION: Proverbs 15:13 "A merry heart maketh a cheerful countenance." DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT: What is a smile? Here is something from an anonymous source: "A smile costs nothing, but creates much good. It enriches those who receive it without impoverishing those who give it away. It happens in a flash, but the memory of it can last forever. No one is so rich that he can get along without it. No one is too poor to feel rich when receiving it. It is rest to the weary, daylight to the discouraged, sunshine to the sad and nature's best antidote for trouble. Yet it cannot be bought, begged, borrowed or stolen." ACTION POINT: When you get dressed this morning, don't forget to put on a smile. Wear a smile all day from the inner joy that only Jesus can bring to your heart. Don't feel an inner joy? Then ask for one!
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Monday, October 5, 2009

THE SECRET OF LIFE:
BIBLE MEDITATION: John 16:8-9 "And when He is come, He will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment: Of sin, because they believe not on Me." DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT: What would you think of someone who gave you the secret of life? Do you think you might instantly call him your best friend? You bet! That's what the Holy Spirit did for you. The Holy Spirit gave you the secret, not only to life, but to eternal life! He convicted you of your sin. He drew you to Christ (John 6:44). Don't get the idea that anybody can simply come of his own will and his own volition to Jesus Christ. No one could come. No one would come except by the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit has given you the secret of life. And He has drawn you there Himself! That's some best friend, wouldn't you say? ACTION POINT: Don't keep quiet about your Best Friend today. He wants to be known and He's given you the privilege to be His messenger. Share Him with those you care about today.
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Friday, September 11, 2009

WHO YOU ARE IN CHRIST?
BIBLE MEDITATION: Romans 8:1 - "There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus." DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT: The key to living a victorious Christian life is to discover who you are in Christ. Many Christians have never discovered this. They remind me of the man who had an identity problem and an energy crisis at the same time. He didn't know who he was and he was too tired to find out. God doesn't work from the outside in. He works from the inside out. God doesn't modify our behavior in order to change us. He changes us in order to modify our behavior. You're never going to purify the water by painting the pump. That's legalism, and that's a dead end to discovering who you are in Christ. ACTION POINT: Take God's Word and find the phrase, "in Christ." As you find phrases that apply to your life, write those down, such as "no condemnation" now that you are "in Christ."
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Tuesday, September 1, 2009

FEAR NOT:
BIBLE MEDITATION: Joshua 1:9 - "Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest." DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT: The devil is the sinister minister of fear. When he clamps his icy fingers of fear on your heart, do you become afraid of what he'll do to you if you take a stand for God? Don't be afraid. Fear is an insult to God who said, I will be with thee. Fear will destroy you. Are you a worrywart? One lady said, "Don't tell me it does no good to worry. Most of the things I worry about never come to pass." Be not dismayed. God will take care of you. ACTION POINT: Ask the Holy Spirit to show you what your fears are, then confess them as sin. Repent, then reach up and take hold of His right hand that is outstretched to sustain you and give you the victory!
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Monday, July 27, 2009

INVESTING IN OTHERS FOR GOD'S GLORY:
BIBLE MEDITATION: Isaiah 63:7 - "I will mention the lovingkindnesses of the Lord, and the praises of the Lord." DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT: One time a man came into a village and asked an old man living there, "Any great men born here?" The old man said, "No, just babies." Great men are not born; great men are made, investing in the lives of others, sharing God's love, and showing His mercies. There is not a magic formula that instantly makes us sanctified. Sanctification is a process. Our calling is to be poured out into the lives of others for His glory. ACTION POINT: How can you show His mercies to a lost co-worker or neighbor today? Pray about it and then watch for how God provides!
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Tuesday, July 14, 2009

DIFFICULT LESSONS LEARNED THROUGH SUFFERING
BIBLE MEDITATION: Hebrews 11:21 - "By faith Jacob, when he was dying, blessed both the sons of Joseph; and worshipped, leaning upon the top of his staff." DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT: Jacob became a wounded worshipper because God did not withhold the rod of correction. The wounded in life are those who have learned difficult lessons through suffering. Do not resist the Shepherd's rod of correction. Is the wounding painful? Indeed. Does it seem that you will not be able to bear it? Most certainly. Then, why would He subject you to such pain? Because you have a Father who loves you so much that He is willing to hurt you to heal you. What you need to focus on is not your pain, but your Savior. God didn't save you to take you to heaven. That's a fringe benefit. God saved you to make you holy as He is holy. ACTION POINT: Read Hebrews 12:1-13. What application can you make from this passage for your life today?
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Thursday, July 9, 2009

MUSIC
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Monday, July 6, 2009

REMEMBERING OUR SPIRITUAL & POLITICAL HERITAGE:
BIBLE MEDITATION: Psalm 78:7 - "That they might set their hope in God, and not forget the works of God, but keep His commandments." DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT: On June 8, 1845, Andrew Jackson said, "The Bible is the rock upon which our Republic rests." Just a few years prior, in 1820, another of our forefathers, Daniel Webster said, "Let us not forget the religious character of our origin." In the days of our founding fathers, people didn't quibble about the Bible's importance. Our forefathers brought hither their high veneration for the Christian religion, being journeyed in its light and laboring in its hope. They sought to incorporate, listen to, and infuse its influence through all their institutions--civil, political, and literary. ACTION POINT: American heritage is important, but so is your personal spiritual heritage as a believer and as a family. Why not take some time this week to write down the spiritual heritage of your family?
posted at 08:36PM	comments

Friday, July 3, 2009

WORKING ALL THINGS TOGETHER & TOWARD HIS RETURN:
BIBLE MEDITATION: Philippians 1:6 - "Being confident of this very thing, that He which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ." DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT: God has not promised you smooth sailing, but He has promised you a safe landing. He has a purpose in allowing every circumstance into your life. You can bank on this: He'll see you to the shore in every storm of life. Andrew Murray said, "God is willing to assume full responsibility for the life totally yielded to Him." One of these days your destiny will be fulfilled. And soon and very soon, He is going to step down from the mountain of His glory, and the trumpet will sound. Our little ship will leave the sea of time and immediately we'll be on the shores of eternity. When He comes, He's coming for you! He's coming for me! ACTION POINT: 1 Thessalonians 4:16-18 tells us to comfort one another with the words of Christ's return. Do you have a friend who is troubled today? Comfort him or her with this hope.
posted at 06:04PM	comments