Sixty-six books in a year

Genesis 29, 30; Matthew 19

klueh — Sun, 29 Jan 2012 09:00:22 +0000

In Matthew 19 the Pharisees ask Jesus under what circumstances a man might divorce his wife and he tells them for reasons of marital unfaithfulness only. The disciples unloving attitudes towards women is exposed when they respond to Jesus saying, “If this is the situation between a husband and wife, it is better not to marry.” I wonder what their wives thought. The disciples get it wrong again when they try to keep little children from Jesus. They appear hardhearted towards women and children. My husband pointed out to me that in that culture, as in many Third World countries, barren and ill women and young children may place a strain and jeopardize on a household economy. If I am honest with myself, often I am no different than the disciples at that point in time. I am guilty at viewing people in terms of their value to me, what they do for me, if they help me feel good about myself or if they deplete my energy and create more work for me to do. Too often, I am angered and irritated by those who might slow me down, complicate and interrupt my life.

It’s amazing to see the transformation in the disciples as they continued to live with Jesus; their attitudes and lives changed so dramatically. They became the people known for embracing society’s cast offs. They tended to the needs of the sick, widowed and orphaned at great personal cost. My own personal bias is that they hopefully became more loving towards their wives. My prayer is that Jesus transforms the areas of my life where I am callous and impatient, judgmental and unkind to those whom it might be costly to love, be they strangers or friends and family.

Thank you, gentle Savior that you never passed me by. Just as with the disciples, you have come and stayed and continue to change this hungry heart.

Kathy

Genesis 27, 28; Matthew 18: 21-35; Romans 7:15-25

jansuwilkinson — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 10:00:44 +0000

Just the other day, I heard a conversation at work about siblings. One woman said that she and her sister had spent the weekend insulating a “d— dog house” for her aging parents, and described the hilarity of the situation and how well they got along. Another woman described her sister as “crazy” for calling and trying to establish a relationship after 20 years of silence. Their mother had recently passed away and this sister sought solace in the family ties that bind. Then both of my coworkers turned to me and asked if I got along with my sister. A quick rundown of each family name (I have three sisters and two brothers) left me tripping over a few hurdles. I can immediately think of incidents that caused friction and even long periods of silence between us. Even worse, I remember my vicious attempts to get my mother involved in my self-righteous, indignant logic – hoping to manipulate her into making my sibling see the light, or more likely, hoping to convince her that I am the ‘good daughter.’

How dark is my own eye.

Esau saw red when he learned of Jacob’s treachery. He even wanted to kill his brother. Fury and calculated revenge replaced the great disappointing loss he felt. How does one begin to forgive in the midst of such thoughts? Time and lack of opportunity may save his brother from his wrath, but what of Esau’s soul sickness? That’s what I feel in my unforgiving.

A sickness of soul without hope of rescue.

I wish I could say that I’ve learned to forgive, keep short accounts, and humble myself for the sake of others, but even remembering these past incidents with siblings feels like poking around in the fire, looking for a reason to stoke it back to life. So even though I know to forgive, there is strong evidence of what the Apostle Paul says in Romans 7, “For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh) nothing good dwells, for to will is present with me, but how to perform what is good I do not find.”

Confession: “Deliver me from this body of death.”

That dark Hulk inside me who threatens, “You wouldn’t like me when I’m angry!” must learn to surrender these hurts and injustices to God in order to cease from maiming and disabling the ones that I love. I know my family will be grateful to be spared my emotional whirlwind, and may even agree with me in saying,

“Thanks be to God – through Jesus Christ our Lord!”

Gen 25, 26 – Mt 18:1-20

allen4myfamily — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 10:00:29 +0000

As I was reading these passages I noticed a difference in focus from the old testament to the new testament. In Genesis we find the history of a family and there is a lot of talk about descendents and who settled where and what land was owned by who. Wells and livestock, riches and birthrights. There is the fear of death or bodily harm by Issac when he is in a strange land. So much so that he lies.

“When the men of that place asked him about his wife, he said, “She is my sister,” because he was afraid to say, “She is my wife.” He thought, “The men of this place might kill me on account of Rebekah, because she is beautiful.”Gen 26:7 NIV

But in Matthew, we see a heavenly focus. Men who are more worried about their place in heaven than their place in society.

“Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” Mt 18:1 NIV

They have left everything behind to follow this man Jesus. They want to know how to please God in a way that will have eternal effects. And Jesus tells them.

“Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” Mt. 18:3-4 NIV

He also talks about sin and the lengths we should go to to avoid it, even bodily harm. Wow!! I don’t know about you, but for me I have enough trouble just turning off he TV sometimes or staying away from the refrigerator to avoid temptation.

After reading these things I am left questioning myself. Where is my focus? What or who do I love more? Do I care more about heavenly or earthly things?

God, Help me to remember what really matters. Help me to do things that will matter for eternity. In Jesus name, Amen

Allen Tanner (allen4myfamily)

Genesis 23,24; Matthew 17

66books365 — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 10:49:20 +0000

I think I’ve done it too. Like Abraham’s servant on a mission to find a wife for Isaac–he stood there before a well, talking to God, telling Him how it ought to go down … if this, and that, then “this is how I will know “… I found huge delight at what followed:

Before he had finished praying, he saw a young woman named Rebekah coming out with her water jug on her shoulder. Genesis 24:15a (NLT; emphasis mine)

Looking back in time, God’s hand becomes easier to see. But in the moment, I imagine the task Abraham’s servant faced. I sensed his uncertainty building, and his prayer touched me, because I’ve done similar: God, if this is what You want, make it clear to me! And to think that before my prayer is finished leaving my mouth, He’s already worked it out. Sometimes so I can recognize it, other times in ways that take me by surprise.

I wonder what Peter thought when Jesus told him to reach into the mouth of a fish and retrieve coins to pay the taxes! It should not have been any less astonishing were Peter told to ask a specific person for the coins, or to even find them on the ground … but Jesus takes it to the extraordinary. Jesus stretches Peter’s thinking (and mine).

Lord, I’m so grateful for all the ways you make yourself known–that I find you in ways I can recognize, and in ways I’d never imagine. I delight in seeing your hand active in history (and my life), how you stretch my imagination. Thank you for always being there.

Courtney (66books365)

Listening to: You Were There by Avalon.

Job 41, 42 Matthew 16

heatherpotts5 — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 09:00:21 +0000

You do not have in mind the things of God, but the things of men. ~ Matthew 16:23

A “stumbling block” is anything that tries to keep you from following the will of God. No matter what God’s will is for our lives people will always try to impose their vision and their dreams on us. In preparing for our first child, the best advice my best friend gave me was to use great discernment when it came to the advice of others, as even well-meaning people could give advice that could be a hindrance to God’s will. If ever I’m feeling shaky, I always turn back to the vision and promises God made to me about our child and I am able to stand firm.

When Job spoke of things that were “above” his understanding, God asked him, “Who is it that obscures my counsel without knowledge?” And to Peter’s declaration about the Cross not coming to pass, Jesus said, “Get behind me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to me,” (Job 42:3; Matthew 16:23).

Points to Ponder:

1) Has God given you a vision for a specific area of your life? If so, write it down so that it will be ever before you. If not, ask Him to reveal it to you plainly.

2) What things have become stumbling blocks—hindrances to God’s will—to you? If you aren’t sure, ask God to reveal them to you and ask His guidance for “side-stepping” them.

Father, thank you for this word today. Lord, I pray that You would give us eyes to see and ears to hear, that we may discern Your will for our lives and help us to choose the things that align our lives with Your will. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

HeatherPotts5

Job 38,39,40; Mathew 15:21-39

edsorrell — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 09:00:23 +0000

Job 38

1 Then the Lord answered Job out of the storm. He said: 2 “Who is this that darkens my counsel with words without knowledge?”

I love a good debate. It is even better if it is on a topic about God. I’ve been known to argue both sides of a topic just to make sure that all aspects are analyzed properly. Job and his friends have been having a lively debate. Both sides putting together beautiful statements and rebukes. Everyone thinking that they where speaking the words of God to the others. Each thinking that wisdom and insight had been given to them to share. Then God shows up on the scene and asks who has been speaking without knowledge. Silence reigns. Their wisdom didn’t seem quite so great in the presence of God.

The appearance of God made me think of two things. The first was when Jesus claimed that when two or three gathered in His name there He would be (Math 18:20). The second was the numerous times I have offered words of wisdom to others usually quoting scripture and offering to pray for them. I have to think now that maybe a better response is to turn to God and ask Him for the wisdom that the particular situation calls for. It seems like the more I learn, the easier it is to find the “Ed Wisdom” that fits the particular situation. I think that it is a safe bet that God could say to me “who has been speaking words without knowledge?” It is humbling to know that God is with me and hears my words of wisdom and how often they are probably lacking. I am reminded that I have two ears and one mouth and should monitor what I say much more carefully than what I do.

Father may you help me to always seek you in filling my words with knowledge. Help me to turn to You in all things especially bringing to mind situations when I am tempted to speak up with “Ed knowledge”. Guide me instead to seek true knowledge from You, the source of all wisdom. Continue to show me your love, grace, and mercy, in Jesus name, Amen.

Ed (edsorrell)

Job 36,37; Matthew 15:1-20

suegraff — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 09:00:38 +0000

Jesus replied, “And why do you, by your traditions, violate the direct commandments of God?” (Matthew 15:3 NLT)

My first thoughts on the Matthew passage were “Yeah, Jesus, you tell those Pharisees a thing or two!” Then my thoughts go quickly to the Christians today that would be the equivalent of the Pharisees of Jesus’ day. You know, THOSE people… We all know them, right?

Right??

Then I reflect on our reading in Job. We know Job is a very righteous man, yet earlier when Job gives us a list of all the reasons why he is so righteous and so does not deserve this Elihu finally speaks up to remind Job of the greatness, power, and justice of God. Elihu is still going on about this in our readings today. Job may have done many wonderful things, but he needs a reminder that God is infinitely greater, He is in charge, and nothing happens that is not under his sovereignty.

Then I start to think… If righteous Job has faults, then maybe I better go back and look at that Matthew passage again… What (if any) man-made commands do I follow and thus violate the direct commands of God? If I am totally honest, I can think of a few possibilities. Then as I reflect more and more, I think of more. I really want to be done thinking about this, it makes me very uncomfortable! As is usually the case when my quiet time starts out with thoughts of how passages apply to other people, if I take the time to reflect I see that it applies to me as well… I think of Psalm 19:12 “How can I know all the sins lurking in my heart? Cleanse me from these hidden faults.”

Lord, please help me discern the man-made commands from the true commands of God. You say “fom the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, all sexual immorality, theft, lying, and slander. These are what defile you.” But you can cleanse our hearts. “Create in me a clean heart, O God” – words from David in Psalm 51:10 – words from You.

suegraff

Job 34&35; Matthew 14:22-36

dmbaldwin — Sun, 22 Jan 2012 09:16:12 +0000

Scripture:

Matthew 14:28-33, 28 And Peter answered him, “Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water.”29 He said, ”Come.” So Peter got out of the boat and walked on the water and came to Jesus.30 But when he saw the wind, he was afraid, and beginning to sink he cried out, “Lord, save me.”31 Jesus immediately reached out his hand and took hold of him, saying to him, ”O you of little faith, why did you doubt?”32 And when they got into the boat, the wind ceased.33 And those in the boat worshiped him, saying, “Truly you are the Son of God.” (ESV)

Observation:

This is one of the most known stories in the Gospels. Peter walking on water. What do we know about the situation? First, Peter was the only one that volunteered to walk on water. There is a film entitled In Remembrance. It’s about the last supper. In one portion it has several disciples discussing who was the greatest, who was first. Finally in exasperation Peter pulls the trump card and asks, “Who else has walked on water?” Second, Peter became afraid when he “saw” the wind. How do you see the wind? Well you don’t. You see the effects of the wind. What would those have been? Most likely very high waves. There were times he probably lost sight of Jesus because of their height. Third, Peter had little faith. How can that be when he started out walking on water? Probably because he had lost sight of Jesus and so thought he couldn’t be helped by him if he did start to sink.

Application:

It is really easy to criticize Peter and think we would never lose faith as he did. But don’t we, don’t I do it on a regular basis? When I forget to look for Jesus in a situation, or to realize he is in every situation of my life, I am losing faith aren’t I? And believe me I’ve done it a lot in my life! Let’s look for Jesus behind every “wave” we encounter today. Let’s not be distracted by the waves, but keep our eyes focused on the one who gives us the faith in the first place.

Prayer:

Father God thank you for always being with us. Help us to look for you today in all we do. Help us not to take our eyes off of you even when it’s hard to see you in an overwhelming wave we may encounter later today. Thank you for your presence always! In Jesus strong and protective Name we pray, Amen.

dmbaldwin

Job 32, Job 33, Matthew 14:1-21

psalmthirty4 — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 09:00:36 +0000

So these three men ceased answering Job, because he was righteous in his own eyes. Then the wrath of Elihu, … was aroused against Job. Job 32:1-3

And the king was sorry; nevertheless, … he sent and had John beheaded in prison. Matthew 14: 9-10

Found at: www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Job%2032,%2033;%20Mt%2014:1-21&version=NKJV

Job 32- So these three men ceased answering Job, because he was righteous in his own eyes. Then the wrath of Elihu, … was aroused against Job; Job 32:1-3

But please, Job, hear my speech, And listen to all my words. … Truly I am as your spokesman before God; Job 33: 1, 6

But was Job “self-righteous”?

The LORD said to Eliphaz the Temanite, “My wrath is aroused against you and your two friends, for you have not spoken of Me what is right, as My servant Job has. Now therefore, take for yourselves seven bulls and seven rams, go to My servant Job, and offer up for yourselves a burnt offering; and My servant Job shall pray for you. For I will accept him, lest I deal with you according to your folly; because you have not spoken of Me what is right, as My servant Job has.” So Eliphaz the Temanite and Bildad the Shuhite and Zophar the Naamathite went and did as the LORD commanded them; for the LORD had accepted Job. 42:7-9

Ouch!! I have been like Elihu and Job, though not at the same time. How many times have I judged someone by their “suffering circumstances”? “Oh, if she only,… then God would….” No doubt people have condemned me seeing my personal situation. External sight is Never perfect vision. People even condemned Jesus because of His life, and Jesus was/ is God!

Lord God, because You have deemed that my present life circumstances are more like Job, You have grown me to be less like Elihu. Oh, how I yearn to grow in You Christ Jesus! In Your humility, love, compassion, intercessory prayer, wisdom, to Your praise and glory!!

Lord God, thank You for being Love and loving me according to Your Character!! I am grateful that You are the only One Who truly sees me, with all my flaws, needs and yet beneath Your Son’s Blood Atonement! Lord Jesus, You look at my heart , that You recreated anew and which is progress and process by You. 1 John 4:16; 1 Corinthians 13; Romans 8:1; 1 Samuel 16:7; Ezekiel 36:25-27; Jeremiah 31:33; 2 Corinthians 5:17; Matthew 11:28-30; Philippians 1:6

Lord Jesus Christ, please forgive me for being quick to judge, and make me “swift to hear, slow to speak” and make my heart, mind and spirit quick to ask for Your Wisdom to discern for Your healing, love and hope!! Thank You for situations which sometimes feel like Job’s so that I may be changed for Your better use. Romans 14:10; Matthew 7:4-5; James 1:19-20; James 1:5; Isaiah 64:8; Romans 8:16-17; 2 Corinthians 4:16-18

My circumstances do not always dictate my internal relationship with the Lord God Almighty. My heart, attitude and bent is not always visible to others, or even myself. Only God sees my heart. And the same is true for my view of each person.

Create in me a clean heart, O God, And renew a steadfast spirit within me. Psalm 51:10

Dear Reader, Please see Points to Ponder below… for discussion.

Matthew 14 - Herod had laid hold of John and bound him, and put him in prison … the daughter of Herodias danced … and pleased Herod. Therefore he promised with an oath to give her whatever she might ask. Matthew 14:6-7

The king misjudged John the Baptist. He didn’t know John, nor the God he served. At a lustful whim he made a promise he regretted – beheading the prophet of the Lord God Almighty. “And the king was sorry; nevertheless, … he sent and had John beheaded in prison.” Mt 14:9-10

When Jesus heard it, He departed from there by boat to a deserted place by Himself. But when the multitudes… followed Him on foot from the cities. And when Jesus went out He saw a great multitude; and He was moved with compassion for them, and healed their sick” and fed thousands with twelve full baskets still remaining. Mt 14:13-14

Quick wrong judgements cost lives and break hearts. John the Baptist died and Jesus Christ was saddened. Yet the Son of God kept on obeying His Father! John 12:49-50; Hebrews 5:8

Lord God Almighty, I give You my heart again with Your joy and hope. Make me aware of my thoughts and actions, to not condemn and to not take in wrongful condemnation. May I be teachable by Your Holy Spirit and live a life reflecting Your Truth and Love and glorifying You alone!!

Points to Ponder: Dear Reader, Have you judged others? Generous in mercy, overly generously to their detriment, or critical and harming? Please do not treat yourself harshly. …Just for discussion.

How are we to handle people? 1 Thessalonians 2:7; 2 Timothy 4:2; Ephesians 4:2; Colossians 1:28; Colossians 3:15-17

What would happen if you and I did this? Matthew 6:10

Does God judge? 1 Samuel 16:7; Proverbs 15:3; Hebrews 4:13; Psalm 96:10-13; 1 Peter 4:5

How can God forgive? Romans 3:23; Romans 5:8-11; Romans 5:21; Matthew 11:28-30; Psalm 51:1-6; Psalm 51:10-13; Romans 10:8-13; 1 John 1:9; Romans 8:1

Crystal (PsalmThirty4)

Job 30, 31 Matthew 13:31-58

yicareggie — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 09:00:44 +0000

The kingdom of heaven is like…Matthew 13:31, 33,44,45,47

A mustard seed
Yeast
A treasure hidden in a field
A merchant hunting for fine pearls
A fisherman’s net

It’s hard focusing on heaven when your life looks like Job’s. People wonder how God can allow good people to suffer. One of my friends sees God as more of a villain than a hero.

“If that’s how God treats people, then I don’t want anything to do with him,” she said. I didn’t know how to respond.

I’m thankful God’s existence doesn’t depend on our opinions. Job had every reason to wish God away, yet he never lost faith in his Creator.

I have another friend who focuses on heaven during her “storm walking”. The difference between the two experiences? One friend is looking at the wind and waves; the other is looking at the One who created the wind and waves.

I don’t know what heaven will be like. I just want everyone I love to be there. I guess I need to get busy. Get my hands messy. Mix it up. Find some treasure. Go where the fish are. Share the pearls. Plant some seeds. Watch the kingdom grow.

Lord God thank you for making room in the kingdom of heaven for “blameless” sufferers like Job and sin cleansed believers like me. I pray for everyone to come to know You and your only Son Jesus who sacrificed his life to cover the sins of the world. Amen

yicareggie