Daily Devotionals

Devotional - A New Creation

2019-02-15T05:30:00Z

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!” – 2 Corinthians 5:17

Nabeel Qureshi was a young Muslim man living in Great Britain. He met David and they quickly became firm friends due to their common morals and devotion. “The time came when I challenged him on the reliability of the Bible,” said Nabeel, “and I had finally met someone who was equipped to defend his faith.While discussing the Bible and the Koran, he also challenged David on the divine authority of Jesus. “He responded to my points, but he also challenged me to contrast my arguments with a case for the authority of Muhammad. It was then that I realized my standards for criticizing the origins of Christianity would raze the foundations of Islam if I applied them consistently.”

Through an open heart and mind, the Lord was able to work in Nabeel’s life and he gave his life to the Lord. He is now reaching other Muslims for Jesus.

Jesus Christ can change lives into His image. Today in prayer, praise the Lord that in His hands we can become new creatures and our lives can bring Him glory.

“I felt myself absolutely born again. The gates of paradise had been flung open and I had entered. There and then the whole of scripture took on another look to me.” – Martin Luther

God’s Word: “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.” – Galatians 2:20

DEVOTIONS IN 2 CORINTHIANS

Devotional - Our Day In Court

2019-02-14T05:36:00Z

“For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive what is due him for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad.” – 2 Corinthians 5:10

On March 23, 2005, police officers arrested 32-year-old Ben Baker for dealing heroin in Chicago’s Ida B. Wells housing projects. After his arrest, Baker filed a complaint claiming he was framed by the officers. In December 2005, the same police officers arrested Baker and his wife during a traffic stop after officers said they found cocaine in the car.

During the trial, Baker and his wife, 34-year-old Clarissa Glenn, introduced two statements from two separate drug dealers saying they paid one of the officers, housing authority police Sergeant Ronald Watts, thousands of dollars in exchange for protection while dealing in the housing complex.

Baker was found guilty of felony drug possession and sentenced to 14 years on the heroin charge. He eventually agreed to plead guilty and serve four years on the cocaine charges in exchange for his wife receiving probation.

At sentencing, the judge told Baker:

“If something should happen in the future—where has happened before as you may have read about in the paper in the last few weeks police officers do get charged with doing things that are wrong, breaking the law. If that should happen here in this case, I would have no hesitation to vacate all of the guilty findings, judgments, sentences, including the 14 years that you’re doing now…If something should develop, then I think your lawyer has told you my position and I would vacate these findings and I would toss out these convictions.”

In September 2018, Cook County, Ill. Judge Leroy Martin Jr. overturned the convictions of 18 men who were victims of a corrupt group of Chicago police officers who fabricated evidence, falsified evidence, and planted contraband on suspects for more than a decade.

Ben Baker’s conviction was among the 18 men.

The Lord promises that everyone will appear in His court and stand before Him one day. Today in prayer, thank the Lord that when you stand before Him your defense is that He paid the price for your sins on the Cross.

“The Christian making God's statutes his song, is a pilgrim to the judgment; the sinner treading upon the mercy of Jesus, and trampling upon His blood, is hastening to the judgment. ‘We must all appear before the judgment-seat of Christ.’” – Richard Fuller

God’s Word: “You, then, why do you judge your brother? Or why do you look down on your brother? For we will all stand before God's judgment seat. It is written: 'As surely as I live,' says the Lord, 'every knee will bow before me; every tongue will confess to God.'” – Romans 14:10-11

DEVOTIONS IN 2 CORINTHIANS

Devotional - Our Hearts Are Not Blind

2019-02-13T05:31:00Z

“Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.” – 2 Corinthians 4:16-18

Gordon Mote was born on October 25, 1970, in Gadsden, Alabama, as a blind person. When he was just three, Gordon surprised his family on Thanksgiving by sitting down at the piano and miraculously playing “Jesus Loves Me” with both hands.

“My music is so eclectic today because I listened to every album I could get my hands on growing up. As kids, my brother (who is also blind) and I traveled and sang in churches of all sizes and denominations.” As a young man, Gordon became one of the first blind students in the country to be mainstreamed into the public school system and later received a full scholarship to Jacksonville State University in Jacksonville, Alabama.

After graduating from Jackson State University, Lee Greenwood asked Gordon to join his band. Since then, he has toured with artists such as Trisha Yearwood, Tanya Tucker, Porter Wagoner, the Gaither Vocal Band, and the Gaither Homecoming Tour. In 2001, when a pianist was needed for Alan Jackson's "Where Were You (When the World Stopped Turning)" recording, Gordon was recommended. After that, he became a very sought-after studio musician, playing on numerous country and gospel artist's albums.

In 2007, his studio album, “Don't Let Me Miss the Glory”, was his debut as a vocalist. He tours regularly giving concerts and glory to Jesus.

Though we cannot yet see our Heavenly Father, we can hear and follow His Word. Today in prayer, set your heart’s focus on Jesus and follow His Word.

“It gives me a deep comforting sense that ‘things seen are temporal and things unseen are eternal.’” – Helen Keller

God’s Word: “Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.” – Hebrews 11:1

DEVOTIONS IN 2 CORINTHIANS

Devotional - In Our Lives

2019-02-12T05:42:00Z

"For we who are alive are always being given over to death for Jesus' sake, so that his life may be revealed in our mortal body." - 2 Corinthians 4:11

At age 38, Augustus M. Toplady died in London. He was the author of the immortal hymn “Rock of Ages.”

He had everything before him to make life desirable, yet when death drew near, his soul exulted in gladness: “Sickness is no affliction, pain no curse, death itself no dissolution; and yet how this soul of mine longs to be gone – like a bird imprisoned in its cage, it longs to take its flight. Had I wings like a dove, then would I fly away to the bosom of God and be at rest forever.”

About an hour before he died he seemed to awaken from a gentle slumber. “Oh, what delights! Who can fathom the joys of heaven? What a bright sunshine has been spread around me! I have no words to express it. I know it cannot be long now till my Saviour will come for me... surely after the glories that God has manifested to my soul! All is light, light, light – the brightness of His own glory! O come, Lord Jesus, come quickly!”

He then closed his eyes and went home to be with the Lord.

The Lord wants us to live fully in Him so He may be glorified in us. Today in prayer, praise the Lord that He loves you and that He can be gloried in your life.

"When we are abandoned by the things we value, when we discover that no matter how much we have gathered we do not have enough, when we realize that even in the currency we value we are very poor, we are ready to start talking to God. Not before. Faith means betting our lives on the grace of God." - M. Craig Barnes

God's Word: "Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? As it is written: "For your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered." No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us." - Romans 8:35-37

DEVOTIONS IN 2 CORINTHIANS

Devotional - When Pressed

2019-02-11T05:49:00Z

“We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.” – 2 Corinthians 4:8-9

Choi Kwanghyuk started an underground church in North Korea. “There were about nine people,” he said. “I couldn’t do mission work because we had to keep it secret that we had a church.”

“If that information had leaked, we could have faced the death penalty,”

Choi said. “We had only one Bible. North Hamgyong province is very cold. In the winter, we would dig a big hole and store kimchi there. We sometimes had services there. In the summer, we had services in the mountain or by the river.”

In 2008, North Korean authorities caught up to Choi and arrested him. He was held in prison by the state security department where he says he was interrogated about his faith.

“I was tortured there,” he said.

Choi escaped his camp before being transferred to one of North Korea’s brutal labor camps. He now lives in Los Angeles, California bringing awareness of Christians being persecution in North Korea.

When life presses in, look to Jesus. Today in prayer, give thanks to the Lord that in every situation, He is faithful to lead us toward Himself.

“More persecution—more growing!” – Samuel Lamb

God’s Word: “Remember the words I spoke to you: 'No servant is greater than his master.' If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also. If they obeyed my teaching, they will obey yours also.” – John 15:20

DEVOTIONS IN 2 CORINTHIANS

Devotional - His Likeness

2019-02-08T05:47:00Z

“And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord's glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.” – 2 Corinthians 3:18

In 2014, a “virtual autopsy,” was performed on the mummy of King Tutankhamun. His golden burial mask shows a young man with strong, idealized features: a strong jaw, full lips, high cheekbones, and a regal brow.

But thanks to high-tech 3-D imaging, the truth has finally been unwrapped, and it is far less pretty.

Tut’s remains underwent CT scans, genetic analysis, and over 2,000 digital scans used to generate a computer model of the pharaoh. Previous attempts to reconstruct Tut’s visage were fairly attractive, based on the theories that he had sustained facial injuries in a fatal chariot race crash or when he was murdered.

This new research not only indicates that Tut was born with the misshapen features and prominent overbite that he took to his grave at 19, but that he was physically unable to participate in chariot racing.

The boy king, the new science reveals, was sickly, with twisted, malformed hips. He suffered from epilepsy and malaria, and had to walk with a cane due to a clubfoot.

He was not the beautiful young man his crypt depicted.

There is no photo or reliable portrait of Jesus Christ. The only Jesus many people will ever see is your transformed life in Christ. Today in prayer, praise the Lord that you are being transformed into His likeness and let others see the glory of our Lord.

“We are called to be ‘stewards of the mysteries of God.’ . . . And the great mystery is ‘Christ in you, the hope of glory.’ . . . And that glory is the glory of God.” – John Piper

God’s Word: “I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one” – John 17:22

DEVOTIONS IN 2 CORINTHIANS

Devotional - Freedom In Christ

2019-02-07T05:37:00Z

“Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.” – 2 Corinthians 3:17

In 1861, Russia had 23 million people living in slavery. They were serfs living on private estates.

Emperor Alexander II, called around him his council, and wanted to have them devise some way to set the slaves at liberty. After they had conferred about it for six months, one night the council sent in their decision, sealed, that they thought it was not expedient. The Emperor went down to the Greek Church that night and partook of the Lord's Supper, and he set his house in order, and the next morning you could hear the tramp of soldiers in the streets of St. Petersburg. The Emperor summoned his guard, and before noon sixty-five thousand men were surrounding that palace. Just at midnight there came out the Emancipation Manifesto that every slave in Russia was forever set free. The proclamation had gone forth, and all the slaves of Russia believed it. They have been free ever since. If one man can liberate twenty-three million, has not God got the power to liberate every captive?

There is liberty and freedom found in union with Jesus Christ. Today in prayer, praise the Lord that in Him we have freedom.

“Man is really free only in God, the source of his freedom.” – Sherwood Eddy

God’s Word: “To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.’” – John 8:31-32

DEVOTIONS IN 2 CORINTHIANS

Devotional - The Fragrance Of Christ

2019-02-06T05:41:00Z

“But thanks be to God, who always leads us as captives in Christ’s triumphal procession and uses us to spread the aroma of the knowledge of him everywhere. For we are to God the pleasing aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing.” – 2 Corinthians 2:14-15

Roses are undoubtedly the most popular pleasant smelling flower in the world. There are more than 100 different species of roses. This beautiful flower is found in Asia, Europe and North America. It is also one of most common flower that can found in almost every garden.

The greatest collection of roses can be found every January 1 in Pasadena, California at the Tournament of Roses Parade.

All of the floats are entirely covered with living materials. They can be covered with anything from seeds and bark to multicolored varieties of flowers, grasses, vines and leaves. These motorized works of art are enormous, and their grand size and flowery scent is far more magnificent in person than on television.

Though there are other flowers in the parade, it is the roses of the Rose Parade that make it the most beautiful, sweet-smelling holiday spectacle.

There is a sweet smell we enjoy when we are in fellowship with Jesus. Today in prayer, give thanks to the Christ, that there is a pleasing aroma of the knowledge of Him.

“When we lift our hands in praise and worship, we break spiritual jars of perfume over Jesus. The fragrance of our praise fills the whole earth and touches the heart of God.” - Dennis Ignatius

God’s Word: “Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.” – Ephesians 5:1-2

DEVOTIONS IN 2 CORINTHIANS

Devotional - The Way Of Forgiveness

2019-02-05T05:53:00Z

“Now instead, you ought to forgive and comfort him, so that he will not be overwhelmed by excessive sorrow.” – 2 Corinthians 2:7

Christy Little Jones of Fort Washington, Maryland received an email which stopped her heart: “You don’t know me, but I am no longer dating your husband,” it read. “I’m sorry for any pain I caused your family.” Christy recalls, “I felt paralyzed.” Until that point, Christy, a relationship coach, believed that she and Adrian, 46, her husband of 10 years, were happily married.

After reading and rereading that e-mail, Christy called her husband at work. Voice shaking, she demanded an explanation. “Adrian was defensive at first, said it never happened, and even hung up on me,” she remembers. “But a minute later he called back, crying, admitted it was true, and begged me to forgive him.” She said: “Once the initial shock passed, I was faced with a choice. I could either fight for my marriage or let this event change everything.” Christy made a conscious decision to forgive. It didn’t happen instantly. For the next six months, she struggled with resentment and the fear that Adrian would not be committed to making the marriage work. “Forgiving him was the hardest thing I’ve ever had to do,” says Christy, “but his honesty made it easier.” So did the fact that Adrian confided his wrongdoing to two friends from their church. The three of them began meeting each week to pray together and discuss their faith and the importance of marriage. “I appreciated that he wanted other people to hold him accountable,” says Christy. “We continue to work on trust issues,” she admits. “But our marriage is stronger for it. I have no regrets.”

Forgiveness is a difficult act of love, but it demonstrates God’s love for us. Today in prayer, let the Lord know you have forgiven those who have hurt you and then let them know that you forgive them.

“Forgiveness does not change the past, but it does enlarge the future.” – Paul Boese

God’s Word: “Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” – Colossians 3:13

DEVOTIONS IN 2 CORINTHIANS

Devotional - A Clear Conscience

2019-02-04T05:43:00Z

"Now this is our boast: Our conscience testifies that we have conducted ourselves in the world, and especially in our relations with you, in the holiness and sincerity that are from God. We have done so not according to worldly wisdom but according to God's grace." - 2 Corinthians 1:12

Oswald Chambers in "My Utmost For His Highest" said, "Conscience is that ability within me that attaches itself to the highest standard I know, and then continually reminds me of what that standard demands that I do. It is the eye of the soul which looks out either toward God or toward what we regard as the highest standard. This explains why conscience is different in different people. If I am in the habit of continually holding God's standard in front of me, my conscience will always direct me to God's perfect law and indicate what I should do. The question is, will I obey? I have to make an effort to keep my conscience so sensitive that I can live without any offense toward anyone. I should be living in such perfect harmony with God's Son that the spirit of my mind is being renewed through every circumstance of life, and that I may be able to quickly ‘prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.'"

The Lord has given us a conscience to awaken us to sin. Today in prayer, confess any sin to Jesus and seek to keep a clear conscience before Christ and others.

"Conscience tells us that we ought to do right, but it does not tell us what right is--that we are taught by God’s word.” – H.C. Trumbull

God's Word: "But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander." - 1 Peter 3:15-16

DEVOTIONS IN 2 CORINTHIANS

Devotional - The God Of All Comfort

2019-02-01T06:06:00Z

“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God.” – 2 Corinthians 1:3-4

In April 2001, Veronica and Charity Bowers died after a Peruvian military jet, believing the pontoon plane was smuggling drugs, shot it down over northeastern Peru. Jim Bowers, 38, and son Cory, 6, were also on board but were unhurt. Pilot Kevin Donaldson, 41, who managed to land the plane on the Amazon River, suffered serious leg wounds.

At the funeral for his wife and infant daughter, Jim said he has forgiven the Peruvian pilot who shot down their small plane and said his wife would have done the same. “I’m not bragging about my attitude. I have no idea why I feel this way,” Jim said. “God’s given me peace.”

In a 30-minute eulogy, spoke calmly as he recalled fond memories of his wife and daughter, and thanked people around the world for their prayers and words of comfort. “Obviously it hurts” Jim said. “But God works mysteriously to give me comfort so that I don't have to be sad all the time.”

At any time, we can look to Jesus Christ and receive comfort in Him. Today in prayer, give thanks to the Christ, that He is Lord of all, and seek comfort in Him so you may comfort others in Christ.

“It will greatly comfort you if you can see God’s hand in both your losses and your crosses.” – Charles H. Spurgeon

God’s Word: “But God, who comforts the downcast, comforted us by the coming of Titus” – 2 Corinthians 7:6

DEVOTIONS IN 2 CORINTHIANS

Devotional - Avoid Divisive People

2019-01-31T05:44:00Z

“I urge you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and put obstacles in your way that are contrary to the teaching you have learned. Keep away from them.” – Romans 16:17

When Theodore Bilbo became governor in 1915, he indulged in his love for poor whites (and contempt for blacks) and stirred up resentment of rich people and corporations.

After his governorship, he ran a gaudy and obnoxious campaign for the US Senate. He promised voters everything he could think of and blasted his enemies as “farmer murderers, corrupters of Southern womanhood, and skunks who steal Gideon Bibles from hotel rooms.” He claimed that the state was full of Communism and that he was needed to clean it up.

He won and arrived in Washington, DC, in 1935. He was known for his famous filibusters. He once attacked the nomination of a judge for the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals for five solid hours. It turned out that the judge, Edwin R. Holmes, had once sentenced Bilbo to 10 days in jail for refusing to testify at the trial of a fellow politician, who was accused of seducing a stenographer.

During his Senate career, he was most notorious for his vicious racism, introducing absurd bills to resettle America’s black population in West Africa. His biggest controversy came when he became chairman of the District of Columbia Committee and became known as the “unofficial mayor of Washington.” He took the position as a platform to rail against the city’s growing black population, demanding that they move out within the year.

Congress began to look into his possibly unethical offering of war contracts for generous payoffs. While an effort to unseat him was underway, Bilbo died in his home in Poplarville, Mississippi. Divisiveness is contrary to loving people. As Christians, we need to show the love of Jesus Christ to everyone. Today in prayer, thank the Lord for His love for you and the opportunity to love others. Avoid divisiveness and seek to bring glory to Christ.

“Discord and division become no Christian. For wolves worry lambs is no wonder, but for one lamb to worry another, this is unnatural and monstrous.” – Thomas Brooks

God’s Word: “Warn a divisive person once, and then warn him a second time. After that, have nothing to do with him.” – Titus 3:10

DEVOTIONS IN ROMANS

Devotional - Written To Teach And Encourage

2019-01-30T05:39:00Z

“For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.” – Romans 15:4

One of the uniquely American traditions is the swearing in of the newly elected President of the United States. The President traditionally takes the oath of office with his right hand on the Bible. The following are specific Bible passages a few of the Presidents chose to encourage them and place their hands on while taking the oath:

Abraham Lincoln in 1865: Matthew 18:7: “Woe unto the world because of offences! for it must needs be that offences come; but woe to that man by whom the offence cometh!”

Andrew Johnson in 1865: Proverb 21: “The king’s heart is in the hand of the Lord, as the rivers of water: he turneth it whithersoever he will.”

James A. Garfield in 1881: Proverbs 21:1: “The king’s heart is in the hand of the lord, as the rivers of water: he turneth it whithersoever he will.”

Benjamin Harrison in 1889: Psalm 121:1-6: “I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help…”

William McKinley in 1897: II Chronicles 1:10: “Give me now wisdom and knowledge, that I may go out and come in before this people: for who can judge thy people, that is so great?”

The Bible is God’s great gift to us to teach and encourage. But we need to apply God’s Word to our lives! Today in prayer, thank the Lord for the Bible and seek to apply His Word to your life.

“The Bible applied to the heart by the Holy Spirit, is the chief means by which men are built up and established in the faith, after their conversion.” – J.C. Ryle

God’s Word: “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness” – 2 Timothy 3:16

DEVOTIONS IN ROMANS

Devotional - Encourage One Another

2019-01-29T05:47:00Z

“Each of us should please his neighbor for his good, to build him up.” – Romans 15:2

Christian Author Michelle Cox relates encouragement she received from pastor and author Tim LaHaye: “I believe the International Christian Retail Show (still called CBA at that time) was in Denver that year. My first book had just been published, and I’d traveled to the retail show to do a book signing.

As I walked down a hallway with a friend, a man stopped me and said, “Do you have a book out?” I replied that I did and told him a little bit about my new book. “Great!” he said. Come do a radio interview with me tomorrow at 4:00.”

I got there a little early, and realized that my interview would be after beloved author Karen Kingsbury and famed artist Ron DiCianni. (Yes, I felt like I was in one of those “Which one of these people doesn’t belong in this picture?” papers that we used to do in grade school.)

Right before time to start my interview, Jerry B. Jenkins and Tim LaHaye arrived to wait for the slot after mine. The irony of the moment wasn’t lost on me—a new author followed by two men whose books had sold millions of copies.

When I finished my interview with the host, Tim LaHaye walked up to me, clasped my hand and looked me in the eye, and then with great conviction he told me, ‘Don't you quit writing.’

I can't tell you what a jolt of encouragement that was for me as a new writer, and I've never forgotten his kindness that day.”

Are you building up people as you go along in life? Today in prayer, thank the Lord for the people He has placed in your life and seek to encourage them in Jesus Christ.

“Encouragement is perhaps one of the greater gifts friends can ever give. An encouraging friend is a lifeline to steady a floundering heart, to bring sunshine to a cloudy day, and to deliver a blessing just looking for a place to land.” – Susan Duke

God’s Word: “Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another--and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” – Hebrews 10:25

DEVOTIONS IN ROMANS

Devotional - Do It In Faith

2019-01-28T05:45:00Z

“But the man who has doubts is condemned if he eats, because his eating is not from faith; and everything that does not come from faith is sin.” – Romans 14:23

The prison cell was dark and rank. With more than 20 men in a tight space, there wasn't even enough room for Bernard Ugwuoke, a Cru staff member, to sleep.

Before throwing him in prison, the Nigerian police had warned Bernard to bring money -- a bribe might lessen a beating. When the cell door shut, a wave of prisoners surrounded him: "Who are you? Why are you here?"

"My name is Bernard. I'm a missionary and I am here because a man falsely accused me of stealing a car," he said. "And I believe God has put me here to bless someone."

"You're a missionary?" a prisoner asked, his demeanor changing (missionaries are uncommon in Nigeria).

Fear clouded the prison. Many would soon go to trial, their fate to be determined. "Pastor, come pray for us," they said.

Over the next few days, 14 of the men agreed to follow Christ, including a former assassin. Bernard was in prison 5 days and later cleared of charges. "If God wants to save some men through hearing the gospel, I think sending His servant to jail is too little a sacrifice," he said.

Are you facing a decision or circumstance that requires faith? Today in prayer, look to the Lord for your answer and by faith follow Christ’s leading.

“Faith never knows where it is being led, but it loves and knows the One who is leading.” – Oswald Chambers

God’s Word: “Through him you believe in God, who raised him from the dead and glorified him, and so your faith and hope are in God.” – 1 Peter 1:21

DEVOTIONS IN ROMANS

Devotional - Being A Good Citizen

2019-01-25T05:44:00Z

“This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God's servants, who give their full time to governing. Give everyone what you owe him: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor.” – Romans 13:6-7

In 2011, model Christie Brinkley was surprised when the United States Internal Revenue Service put a tax lien on her Bridgehampton, Long Island estate for $531,720.

She immediately resolved the tax lien, writing it off as an accounting error.

In a news release from her publicist, Ms. Brinkley properly said:

"I consider myself very lucky to have been employed since I was 17 years old...I have never had an issue with the IRS or any tax liens in the past and I have dedicated my time to giving back as much and as often as possible. I was surprised to learn of the tax lien filing and took immediate steps to rectify this matter, which for most people is a private matter. I discovered the tax lien was indeed the result of an error. My taxes will be paid in full by Wednesday, December 7th and I expect the tax lien to be released immediately thereafter. I regret not paying more attention to my accounting, but I have been, and remain focused on my whole family as both my parents navigate serious health issues. I am grateful for the outpouring of understanding and support I have received."

Nothing in a Christian life should detract from being a good representative of Jesus Christ. Today in prayer, ask the Lord how you can be a better citizen and bring glory to the Lord.

“The duty of obedience to secular authorities is a temporary one, for the present period of ‘night;’ in that ‘day’ which is ‘at hand’ a new order of government will be introduced, when ‘the saints shall judge the world.’” – F.F. Bruce

God’s Word: “‘Tell us then, what is your opinion? Is it right to pay taxes to Caesar or not?’ But Jesus, knowing their evil intent, said, ‘You hypocrites, why are you trying to trap me? Show me the coin used for paying the tax.’ They brought him a denarius, and he asked them, ‘Whose portrait is this? And whose inscription?’ ‘Caesar's,’ they replied. Then he said to them, ‘Give to Caesar what is Caesar's, and to God what is God's.’” – Matthew 22:17-21

DEVOTIONS IN ROMANS

Devotional - Your Gifts

2019-01-24T05:40:00Z

“so in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. If a man's gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his faith. If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach” – Romans 12:5-7

David Watson, author of the book “I Believe in the Church” also enjoyed a thriving pastoral ministry in York, England. He suggested three inevitable results if spiritual gifts are employed within a church.

“First, inferiority and superiority complexes are banished from the church. If one is simply exercising a God-given grace gift, he has nothing of which to be proud or to be ashamed.

Second, Christians should earnestly desire spiritual gifts. A sensitive pastor or leader will seek out spiritual gifts. Then he will suit service to develop and expand those gifts. The end result will be a stronger church fellowship.

Third, we must use the gifts that are available. If we do not, we reduce people to cogs in a wheel. As a keen lay preacher once told me, ‘Pastor, if I cannot use my gift, I become a dumb priest.’ (He reflected the priesthood of all believers [1 Peter 2:9; Ex. 19:5-61].)”

The Lord has given you gifts to build up others in Jesus Christ. Today in prayer, thank the Lord for the spiritual gifts you have received and seek to use them for His glory.

“God has said that every Christian has at least one spiritual gift for the benefit of the whole body of Christ. No one has all the gifts, all have at least one gift, and some have two or more. We are dependent on each other.” – Francis M. Cosgrove, Jr.

God’s Word: “There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but the same God works all of them in all men. Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good.” – 1 Corinthians 12:4-7

DEVOTIONS IN ROMANS

Devotional - A Living Sacrifice

2019-01-23T05:51:00Z

“Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God--this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is--his good, pleasing and perfect will.” – Romans 12:1-2

Thomas Heyward Jr. of South Carolina was a signer of both the declaration and the Articles of Confederation. He drew the ire of the British when, as a circuit court judge, he presided over the trial of several loyalists who were found guilty of treason. The prisoners were summarily executed in full view of British troops. In 1779, he joined the South Carolina militia as a captain of artillery.

Heyward aided his country in the battle at Port Royal Island, where he helped General Moultrie defeat British Major William Gardiner and his troops.

Upon the surrender of Charleston, Heyward was captured by the British and sent to a prison in St. Augustine, Florida, which was reserved for people the British thought were particularly dangerous. He was held there for almost a year before being released. On route to Philadelphia for a prisoner exchange in July 1781, Heyward almost drowned. He survived his fall overboard by clinging to the ship’s rudder until he could be rescued.

During the British occupation of Charleston, Commandant Nisbet Balfour ordered the seizure of many estates in Charleston, including those owned by Heyward.

During his imprisonment, Heyward’s wife died at home, and his estate and property were heavily damaged. He took serious and lived out the Declaration of Independence’s last line which reads: “And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor.”

The Lord wants to do great things in your life, but you must be willing to sacrifice your goals for God’s glory. Today in prayer, praise Jesus that when we live for Him, we are blessed.

“Leadership is an act of submission to God. To be a leader means listening to all kinds of people and situations. Out of that listening, we are hoping to discern the mind of God as best we can. This is the price of leadership - it's an act of sacrifice. So leadership is part and parcel of the work of submission to God.” – Richard Foster

God’s Word: “As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received.” – Ephesians 4:1

DEVOTIONS IN ROMANS

Devotional - Experiencing Grace

2019-01-22T05:46:00Z

“And if by grace, then it is no longer by works; if it were, grace would no longer be grace.” – Romans 11:6

Sir Edwin Landseer was one of the most famous painters of the Victorian era. His talent developed early, and he had the first showing of his work at the Royal Academy when he was just thirteen years old. He was commissioned to do a number of official portraits of the royal family, and even gave private drawing lessons to Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. But he was best known for his depictions of the natural settings and life in the Scottish highlands.

One day as he was visiting a family in an old mansion in Scotland, one of the servants spilled a pitcher of soda water, leaving a large stain on the wall. While the family was out for the day, Landseer remained behind. Using charcoal, he incorporated the stain into a beautiful drawing. When the family returned they found a picture of a waterfall surrounded by trees and animals. He used his skill to make something beautiful out of what had been an unsightly mess.

God works in much the same way in our lives. The things that we think of as weaknesses and handicaps can, through His grace, become our greatest strengths. Today in prayer, ask the Lord to give you grace and provide the strength to meet every challenge and overcome every weakness.

“Grace is what God gives us when we don't deserve and mercy is when God doesn't give us what we do deserve” – Reinhold Niebuhr

God’s Word: “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith--and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God-- not by works, so that no one can boast.” – Ephesians 2:8-9

DEVOTIONS IN ROMANS

Devotional - No Distinction

2019-01-21T05:44:00Z

“For there is no difference between Jew and Gentile--the same Lord is Lord of all and richly blesses all who call on him” – Romans 10:12

On Saturday, July 9, 2007, thousands of people, including state and city officials, gathered in Detroit's Hart Plaza for a funeral. They all watched as a horse-drawn carriage made its way through the streets carrying a small pine casket adorned with a black wreath. The funeral, conducted by the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, wasn't for a person, though. It was for the racial slur commonly referred to as "the N-word."

The governor of Michigan, Jennifer Granholm, spoke of the word's demise: "Good riddance to this vestige of slavery and racism, and say 'hello' to a new country that invests in all of its people."

Kwame Kilpatrick, Detroit's mayor, said, "Good riddance! Die, n-word! We don't want to see you around here no more [sic]!" He went on to encourage black men to move away from disrespect of black women and themselves, saying, "You can't just bury the n-word. You have to bury all the nonsense that comes with it."

After its journey through the city, the coffin was ceremoniously placed in Detroit Memorial Park Cemetery.

There is no difference between men; Jesus Christ desires ALL to be saved. Today in prayer, thank the Lord that in His eyes, there are no differences between people.

“Prejudice is a learned trait. You're not born prejudiced; you're taught it.” – Charles R. Swindoll

God’s Word: “Do not pervert justice or show partiality. Do not accept a bribe, for a bribe blinds the eyes of the wise and twists the words of the righteous.” – Deuteronomy 16:19

DEVOTIONS IN ROMANS

Devotional - Not Following God

2019-01-18T05:45:00Z

“Since they did not know the righteousness that comes from God and sought to establish their own, they did not submit to God's righteousness.” – Romans 10:3

In December 2018, Jerrell G. Altic, a former minister of Houston's First Baptist Church, was charged with stealing more than $800,000 from the church. He embezzled the money over a six-year period that ended in November 2017. Altic's attorney said Altic has admitted to stealing the money. Altic used the money to fund overseas trips, get a doctorate from Lancaster Bible School and live outside of his means. While prosecutors declined to detail how the theft took place, they said it was by a series of misrepresentations and forgery. "He's cooperating fully with the district attorney's office," said James Alston, Altic's attorney. "He feels horrible for what has happened and the pain that has caused everyone at the church and his family members, and he would want me to tell everyone that he's sorry." Alston went on to say Altic "knew this day was coming."

It is easy to justify our own sin, but it is not right. Today in prayer, thank the Lord that He is Righteous and seek to follow Jesus in all that you do.

“There are only two kinds of men: the righteous who believe they are sinners, the sinners who believe they are righteous.” – Blaise Pascal

God’s Word: “God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.” – 2 Corinthians 5:21

DEVOTIONS IN ROMANS

Devotional - Don't Overlook The "Stumbling Stone"

2019-01-17T05:50:00Z

“Why not? Because they pursued it not by faith but as if it were by works. They stumbled over the ‘stumbling stone.’” – Romans 9:32

In 2005, Philadelphia resident Norma Ifill was at a flea market when she came upon a necklace in a box on the ground. She liked it for its "tribal" look and purchased it for $15. She wore it 4 or 5 times and received compliments on the necklace, but it eventually made its home in Norma’s jewelry box.

A few years later, she attended an Alexander Calder jewelry exhibition at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. It soon dawned on her that she might own more than costume jewelry.

The Calder Foundation in New York confirmed the striking brass necklace was by created by sculptor Alexander Calder. It had in been exhibited at the Museum of Modern Art in 1943.

“I can’t believe I had a Calder necklace all this time and had no idea” she exclaimed.

Norma decided to sell the necklace at auction and it sold for $267,750.

Jesus was clothed as an ordinary man, but He is the magnificent treasure we desire. Today in prayer, praise the Lord that when we pursue God by faith, we find all we ask in Christ.

“While I draw this fleeting breath, When mine eyes shall close in death, When I soar to worlds unknown, See Thee on Thy judgment throne, Rock of Ages, cleft for me, Let me hide myself in Thee.” – Augustus M. Toplady

God’s Word: “So this is what the Sovereign LORD says: ‘See, I lay a stone in Zion, a tested stone, a precious cornerstone for a sure foundation; the one who trusts will never be dismayed.’” – Isaiah 28:16

DEVOTIONS IN ROMANS

Devotional - His Providence

2019-01-16T05:46:00Z

“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” – Romans 8:28

In the late 1800’s a member of Britain’s Parliament went to Scotland to make a speech. He got off the train in Edinburgh, and then took a carriage south toward his destination. Unfortunately, the carriage became stuck in deep mud. A local farm boy came to the rescue with his team of workhorses. In his gratitude, the politician offered a reward, but the boy refused, saying he wanted nothing.

"Well,” persisted the legislator, "Is there anything I can do for you? What would you like to do with yourself when you grow up?"

"I’d like to become a doctor" the young man replied.

The Member of Parliament promised to do what he could, and in fact he secured admission to the university for the young man.

During World War 2 more than 50 years later, British Prime Minister Winston Churchill lay dangerously ill in Morocco, suffering from pneumonia. A new wonder drug was administered to him, penicillin, which had been discovered by Sir Alexander Fleming, the Scottish farm boy of so long before. So who was the politician who had sponsored him to the university? He was Randolph Churchill, the father of Winston.

The Lord is Lord of All, nothing escapes His divine purpose. Today in prayer, seek Jesus and His will and follow Him with your whole heart.”

“Providence has at all times been my only dependence, for all other resources seem to have failed us.” – George Washington

God’s Word: “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. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.” – Jeremiah 29:11-13

DEVOTIONS IN ROMANS

Devotional - Hope In The Shadow

2019-01-15T05:42:00Z

“The creation waits in eager expectation for the sons of God to be revealed. For the creation was subjected to frustration, not by its own choice, but by the will of the one who subjected it, in hope” – Romans 8:19-20

In 1927 the wife of Scottish preacher Arthur Gossip died suddenly. When he returned to the pulpit he preached a sermon titled “When Life Tumbles In, What Then?” In that sermon Gossip compared life to watching a plane pass through the sky during wartime. There you are, lying on your back watching a plane fly gracefully across a brilliant sunlit blue sky when all of a sudden it is blown apart by gunfire and falls to earth a tumbling, tangled mess of metal. Only on this occasion the gunfire was the tragically unexpected death of his beloved wife.

Pastor Gossip went on to explain that he didn’t understand this life, but what he did know was that during this darkest period of his life he needed his faith more than ever. “You people in the sunshine may believe the faith, but we in the shadow must believe it. We have nothing else.” Without his faith there was no hope.

Those who trust in Christ have a living Hope who does not disappoint. Today in prayer, praise the Lord that your hope in Him has given you eternal life.

“My knowledge of that life is small, the eye of faith is dim, But ‘tis enough that Christ knows all, And I shall be with him.” – Richard Baxter

God’s Word: “However, as it is written: ‘No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him’” – 1 Corinthians 2:9

DEVOTIONS IN ROMANS

Devotional - Knowledge Of The Law

2019-01-14T05:31:00Z

“What shall we say, then? Is the law sin? Certainly not! Indeed I would not have known what sin was except through the law. For I would not have known what coveting really was if the law had not said, ‘Do not covet.’” – Romans 7:7

In an article entitled: “15 Times You're Breaking The Law (And Didn't Even Know It), Taylor Macias gives the following three examples of breaking the law and not realizing it:

Thanks to the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act, it’s a crime to gain “unauthorized access” to a wireless router that is unsecured. Using an unsecured Wi-Fi hub is considered stealing. It is best to find a secure line.

Thanks to every anti-graffiti state law, it is illegal to actually own, or walk around with “broad-tipped indelible markers” in public. There is a potential that police believe they could be used in an act of vandalism. It is also illegal to buy permanent markers for any minor as well.

Finally, in Newark, New Jersey, it’s illegal to buy ice cream after 6 pm unless you have a written note from your doctor.

Knowledge of the law brings recognition of our own sinful actions. Today in prayer, thank the Lord for His law that through it we can recognize our own sin. And then thank Jesus for His grace; for it is in His grace we have life in Him.

“In the maxims of the law, God is seen as the rewarder of perfect righteousness and the avenger of sin. But in Christ, his face shines out, full of grace and gentleness to poor, unworthy sinners.” – John Calvin

God’s Word: “The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” – 1 Corinthians 15:56-57

DEVOTIONS IN ROMANS