We Need Each Other

June 30, 2009

~Denise Grant

 

“If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up!”  Ecclesiastes 4:10

 

Something to Think About:

 

~Are you comfortable sharing personal areas of concern and need with others?

~Why are we so often tempted to try to handle life without the support and encouragement of others?

~How have you been able to encourage others to grow in their walk with Christ?

 

     Deep in our souls, we all need the encouragement and support of others.

In the sixth chapter of Galatians, Paul defines some of the most practical principals for expressing love for one another.

 

     Galatians 6:1-3 - “Brothers, if someone is caught in a sin, you who are spiritual should restore him gently. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted. Carry each other’s burdens and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. If anyone thinks he is something when he is nothing, he deceives himself.”  We should be redemptive people, helping restore those who have been caught in a sin. If there is a Christian brother or sister who needs correction or encouragement, humbly and gently reach out to that person, but, be extra careful not to get trapped in sin yourself.

 

     Galatians 6:4 - “Each one should test his own actions. Then he can take pride in himself, without comparing himself to somebody else.” Some people are all too ready to point out flaws in others in order to feel better about themselves. Others simply want reassurance that they are doing well. When you are tempted to compare yourself to others, look at Jesus Christ. His example will inspire you to do your very best, and His loving acceptance will comfort you when you fall short of your goals. Paul is also challenging us to love others unconditionally and without judgment or comparison.

 

     Galatians 6: 5 - For each one should carry his own load.” When someone has burdens that are bigger than any one person should handle alone, we are to step in to help.

 

     Galatians 6:6 – “Anyone who receives instruction in the word must share all good things with his instructor” It is our responsibility to take care of the material needs of those who teach us; preachers, teachers, spiritual leaders, etc. With a generous spirit, showing honor and appreciation for their service, we should not grudgingly or reluctantly neglect to take care of them.

 

     Galatians 6:7-8 - “Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that nature will reap destruction; the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life.” It’s a law of life – both physical and spiritual – you reap what you sow. Every action comes with results. If you plant to please your own desires, you’ll reap a crop of sorrow and evil; if you plan to please God, you’ll reap joy and everlasting life.  What kinds of seeds are you sowing in the soil of your life?

 

     Galatians 6:9 – “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” Let’s be honest. Some people are difficult to love (they’re affectionately referred to as: “Sandpaper people”), but if we don’t lose faith in God’s power to authentically change their lives, our persistence may be the very thing that makes the difference between them finding God’s forgiveness and peace or never receiving God’s mercy and grace in their hearts.

 

     Paul ultimately challenges us to keep on doing what is right and to trust God for the results.

 

God Will…

 

Be pleased with your love for your neighbor – “Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for he who loves his fellowman, has fulfilled the law.” Romans 13:8

 

Reproduce His love in you – “We love because he first loved us.” 1 John 4:19

 

Hear your prayers as you pray for each other – “Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.” James 5:16

 

 

“For where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them.” Matthew 18:20 ____________________________________________________________

Dear God,

 

     Thank You that you didn’t create us to live in isolation, but to help one another to seek and find You. Point me in the direction of someone I can reach out to today and share Your love. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Denise Grant - Just "clay" in the Master Potter's hands.

 

The man who walks with God always gets to his destination.

If you have a  pulse you have a purpose.

Joy In Life's Storms

June 29, 2009

~Denise Grant

 

“I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.”  Philippians 3:14

 

Something to Think About:

 

~Have there been times in your life that you wanted to “throw in the towel” rather than keep going?

~Have you ever given up when things got difficult?

~What storm in your life are you waiting out right now?

 

     When life is difficult, as it so often is, if you will just hang tough, you can and will come out victorious through faith, courage, perseverance, and with joy. What? Back up – did you just read, “Joy”? 

 

     Philippians is known as a book about joy – despite the fact Paul wrote it from a Roman prison. In both his words and his actions, Paul calls for us to rejoice, to be joyful, in spite of suffering, in the midst of humble service, and in the face of fear and anxiety.

 

     But come on – just how practical is it to rejoice in any situation? What about in the face of a terminal illness? Or when you face financial despair? How about when one of your children is struggling morally and spiritually? Is it even healthy to find joy in such times?

 

     Paul does not say rejoice because of hardships; no! He says rejoice despite of hardships - and in the midst of pain! I don’t believe Paul is calling us to be masochists who wish for hardship and pain in our lives. However, he does call us to be overcomers in all circumstances. But exactly how does one do this?

 

     You see, Paul knows what he’s talking about. This man was:

 

• Stoned and beaten – “They stoned Paul and dragged him outside the city, thinking he was dead.” Acts 14:19
• Shipwrecked – “But the ship struck a sandbar and ran aground. The bow stuck fast and would not move, and the stern was broken to pieces by the pounding of the surf.” Acts 27:41
• Suffered from a painful physical ailment – “Even though my illness was a trial to you, you did not treat me with contempt or scorn.” Galatians 4:13
• Lived with the guilt of being a persecutor of innocent people in his past – “I persecuted the followers of the Way to their death, arresting both men and women and throwing them into prison.” Acts 22:4
• Imprisoned and sentenced to death for his faith – “After they had been severely flogged, they were thrown into prison” Acts 16:22.

 

     Just like the Energizer Bunny – he just kept on going and going and going. He was clearly a man of joy in all circumstances and in the midst of pain, trials and suffering – and you can be too!

 

     Life can be, and is difficult and for some every day, but I encourage you to trust and believe that even in the midst of suffering, you can stand firm – and help others to do the same – as you find your ultimate joy in the Lord.

 

 

God Will…

 

Enable you to overcome – “The Sovereign Lord is my strength; he makes my feet like the feet of a deer, ne enables me to go on the heights.” Habakkuk 3:19

 

Give you strength and boldness – “When I called, you answered me; you made me bold and stouthearted.” Psalm 138:3

 

 

Equip you for good works - “May our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us and by his grace gave us eternal encouragement and good hope, encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good deed and word.” 2 Thessalonians 2:16-17

 

 

     “When you get into a tight place and everything goes against you, till it seems as though you could not hang on a minute longer, never give up then – for that is just the place and time that the tide will turn”.

                    

                                                                  ~Harriet Beecher Stowe

 

 

Dear Lord Jesus,

 

     When I’m tossed in the winds and waves of my life’s storms, grant me a calm, confident, and especially joyful heart that stands against all trials. I will press on towards the goal to win the prize for which You have called me heavenward. In Your holy and precious name, Jesus. Amen!

Denise Grant - Just "clay" in the Master Potter's hands.

 

The man who walks with God always gets to his destination.

If you have a  pulse you have a purpose.

Reconciliation

June 26, 2009

~Denise Grant

 

“There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” Galatians 3:28

 

Something To Think About:

 

~Is there someone in your life from whom you are estranged?

~What’s the hardest part of healing a broken relationship?

~Are there some relationships that can never be restored?

 
     Consuming the news buzz of late is the impending divorce of Jon and Kate Gosselin from the TLC reality show, “Jon & Kate plus 8”. After ten years of marriage, one set of twin girls, and a set of sextuplets, Jon and Kate have decided to separate. Ok, so Kate’s too controlling and Jon’s much too passive, but come on – eight children’s lives are forever at stake here! Has the pursuit of fame and money blinded these parents to God’s manner of reconciliation?
.
     “If you forgive anyone his sins, they are forgiven; if you do not forgive them, they are not forgiven” John 20:23. In and of yourself, you do not have the power to forgive anyone’s sins - for no human can such – only God can forgive and offer Salvation and eternal life. Jesus teaches us in the Lord’s Prayer: “Forgive us for our sins, just as we have forgiven those who sinned against us” Matthew 6:12. He gives you a strict warning if you refuse to forgive others; He will also refuse to forgive you!
 
     Just as God sent His Son, Jesus into the world to reconcile you to Him: “And through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross”, Colossians 1:20, He gives you the command to be a peacemaker, to be reconciled even to your enemies: “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven” Matthew 5:44.
 
     But my husband left me. My friend betrayed me. My wife cheated. My boss lied. My coworkers take credit for my work. My parents don’t respect me. Obviously, one person cannot control or force the process of reconciliation. That’s why you are told to keep peace “as much as depends on you” Romans 12:18.
 
     Perhaps you feel the call to reconciliation is too hard, too painful or just plain unrealistic. If so, you need to keep in mind:
 

• Reconciliation is God’s idea and His way of doing things – “God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners.” Romans 5:8
• Reconciliation is tied to our worship of God – He wants us to come before Him with right relationships – “If you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to your brother; then come and offer your gift.” Matthew 5:23 You are a hypocrite if you claim to have a right relationship with God while you have a broken relationship with others. Your relationship with others reflects your relationship with God.
• As we forgive others, we are forgiven by God – “Do not judge and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.” Luke 6:37

 
However – a few notes of caution on this topic include:
 

• Reconciliation does not always happen at once, but can take place over years, so don’t get discouraged or give up because of a lack of results – “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” Galatians 6:9
• Reconciliation does not mean we submit ourselves to abuse, cruelty or the lack of response of others. Even Jesus told His disciples to avoid certain people – “If anyone will not welcome you or listen to your words, shake the dust off your feet when you leave that home or town.” Matthew 10:14
• Reconciliation cannot always be made complete due to past sins. Someone who has left a spouse and family may seek forgiveness, but not necessarily be able to reenter the lives of those whom they left in the same way.

 

God will…

 

Heal and restore – “He will give: Beauty for ashes; joy instead of mourning; praise instead of heaviness.” Isaiah 61:3

 

Bless peacemakers – “Happy are those who strive for peace - they shall be called the sons of God.” Matthew 5:9

 

Bring justice and preserve the broken – “He will encourage the fainthearted, those tempted to despair. He will see full justice given to all who have been wronged.” Isaiah 42:3

 

     Is there someone with whom you are separated due to a grievance? What is one small step you can take today to bridge the gap today?
 
     With God’s grace, even the most damaged relationships can be restored.

 
     Thank You, O God that when I was far away from You and lost, You ventured to seek me out. Even when I’ve not been quick to forgive others, You’ve gently reminded me Lord, that I cannot be forgiven until I do - and oh how I need Your forgiveness every day. Grant me the courage to be a peacemaker in my world for You today, and love others in the same way You love me. In Jesus’ name, Amen!

Denise Grant - Just "clay" in the Master Potter's hands.

 

The man who walks with God always gets to his destination.

If you have a  pulse you have a purpose.

Small Miracles

June 25, 2009

~Denise Grant

 

“Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.”  Hebrews 4:16

 

Something to Think About:

 

~Have you ever experienced an incredible (“God”)  moment when you knew God was doing something special just for you?

~Do you believe in miracles and divine intervention in your life?

~Do you go throughout your day with a sense of God’s love for you?

 

 

     When you get to the end of your own strength, remember some small miracles of the Bible –

 

• God sent a rainbow to Noah as a symbol that His love for man would never waver – “Whenever I bring clouds over the earth and the rainbow appears in the clouds, I will remember my covenant between me and you and all living creatures of every kind.” Genesis 9:14-15
• God spoke to Moses in a burning bush – “God called to him from within the bush, ‘Moses! Moses!’ and Moses said, ‘Here I am’”. Exodus 3:4 and parted the waters of the sea with His breath to provide deliverance – “Then Moses stretched out his hand over the sea, and all that night the Lord drove the sea back with a strong east wind and turned it into dry land. The waters were divided, and the Israelites went through the sea on dry ground, with a wall of water on their right and on their left.” Exodus 14:21
• God allowed a young shepherd boy to conquer a mighty warrior with only a sling shot and a single stone – “Reaching into his bag and taking out a stone, he slung it and struck the Philistine on the forehead, and he fell facedown on the ground.” 1 Samuel 17:49
• Jesus healed a blind man – “Once more Jesus put his hands on the man’s eyes. Then his eyes were opened, his sight was restored, and he saw everything clearly.” Mark 8:25, a man who had never walked “Then he said to the paralytic, ‘Get up, take your mat and go home.’ And the man got up and went home.” Matthew 9:6-7, and even raised a young girl from death to life –“But he took her by the hand and said, ‘My child, get up!’ Her spirit returned, and at once she stood up.” Luke 8:54

 

     The God who performed those miracles is the same God we serve today. He’ll never change.  Whether you see it or not – or you choose to believe it or not - God is still at work in our world today – and in your life as well. Sometimes all you need is to open your eyes to see the small miracles He performs in your life every day. “For your Father knows what you need before you ask him.”  Matthew 6:8

 

God will…

 

Give you rest – “Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” Matthew 11:29

 

Keep His promises – “He remembers his covenant forever, the word he commanded, for a thousand generations.” 1 Chronicles 16:15

 

Take care of you – “Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him and he will do this: He will make your righteousness shine like the dawn, the justice of your cause like the noonday sun.” Psalm 37:5-6

 

     Remember the works of God, His mercy, and His faithfulness.. Sometimes we forget all God has done for us.

 

Dear Heavenly Father,

 

     I thank You for the comfort and provision being Your child, brings to me in every detail of my life. I praise You for the tiny miracles You send every day. Please tenderize my heart so that I am always aware of the “God Moments” all around me. In Jesus’ name! Amen!

Denise Grant - Just "clay" in the Master Potter's hands.

 

The man who walks with God always gets to his destination.

If you have a  pulse you have a purpose.

Who Holds Your Future

June 24, 2009

~Denise Grant

 

            “’For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”  Jeremiah 29:11

 

Something to Think About:

 

~Have you ever been so discouraged that you failed to believe even God could help you through a situation?

~Have you ever sensed God leading you to take a new path with a potential to change your future?

~Are you trusting God for your future right now?

 

     Many of us would jump at the chance to know what’s in our future; our decisions would be easier, our failures avoided, and our success assured. But, don’t allow yourself to get caught up in reading horoscopes or visiting psychics as a means to discern your future. No one has the power to discover your future in made-up charts or tarot cards.. Instead of putting your trust in the stars - trust in the one who made the stars.

 

     When you are going through tough times, you must remember that your future is in God’s hands. He knows what’s around every bend and beyond every knot in the road. He created you on purpose and for a purpose and has a plan conceived just for you – one full of goodness and hope. As long as the God who knows your future, provides your agenda walking every step before, behind and beside you – you can have boundless hope as you fulfill His mission for your life. This does not mean however, you will be spared pain, suffering or hardship – no, not at all – but that God will see you through to a fabulous finale..

 

     Imagine losing absolutely everything you hold dear – your family, home, possessions, church, and maybe even your faith. Jeremiah anguished over what had happened to his people. King Nebuchadnezzar had conquered the Kingdom of Judah, destroying the walls of Jerusalem and the temple built by Solomon. The strongest and most educated were led as captives to serve the conquering king. They left behind all they loved - smoldering in ruins.

 

     In the midst of this hopelessness, this young prophet, Jeremiah, called to speak for God at an early age, boldly proclaimed a new promise – that God had a future filled with blessed hope for His people.  That promise did come true for the Hebrew children and the promise still echoes and holds true today - no matter what your situation is. It may seem that God has forgotten you - but don’t lose hope. He just may be preparing you, as He did the people of Judah, for a new beginning with God at the center.

 

     Do things look bleak in your life today? Are you flooded with insecurity about your future or the future ahead for America? Just as God had a plan for His people thousands of years ago, He has a plan for us all right now– a proficient, pleasing and perfect plan. And above all - He is trustworthy to see that His plan be fulfilled.

 

     “I know, O Lord, that a man’s life is not his own; it is not for man to direct his steps.” Jeremiah 10:23 God’s ability to plan our lives well is infinitely beyond our ability.

 

God will…

 

Reveal Himself – “And if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding, and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure, then you will understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God.” Proverbs 2:3-5

 

Bring success – “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and your plans will succeed.” Proverbs 16:3

 

Hear your prayers – “This is the confidence we have in approaching God; that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us.” 1 John 5:14

 

Write a list of nine things you would love to be part of your future. Number each of them, listing also the number “10”, and write next to it; “Whatever God wants for me.” Then commit the list to God and put it in a safe place for easy future reference.

 

     Max Lucado writes:  “God not only read your story – He wrote it”. 

 

Dear Lord,

 

     I do not know what is next in my life – but You do..  I trust in Your plan for my life, Your love, Your promises and believe in my heart that You have a bright future awaiting me. In Jesus’ name, Amen!

Denise Grant - Just "clay" in the Master Potter's hands.

 

The man who walks with God always gets to his destination.

If you have a  pulse you have a purpose.

Sharing God's Love

June 23, 2009

~Denise Grant

 

“By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” John 13:35

 

Something to Think About:

 

~Has there been someone in your life who helped you have more faith in God because of the way they conducted their life?

~Do your attitudes and actions draw people closer to God or push them away?

~How can you show more love to someone who needs to know God?

 

      The best way to share your faith with others is by living a life of obedience and love. How will others know what you mean by saying that “God is love” if you simply do not act it out?

 

     When Peter wrote to a small group of Christians who had been persecuted and ridiculed for their faith, he said, “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” 1 Peter 3:15

 

     You should be prepared to tell others how you know God is real and how He has made you into a new person through Jesus Christ. Have you ever thought through what you would say to someone who wants to have a personal relationship with God? Do you have a couple of Bible verses memorized that you could share with them? Would you be ready to pray with them?

 

     Just as important as having words to say is the way we conduct our lives. Many people have quit going to church or even refuse to visit because of the bad attitudes and activities of those who call themselves Christians. Jesus tells His disciples (that’s you and me) that the easiest way people will know that they have a real and powerful relationship with God is by how they love one another.

 

     One of the greatest and most powerful expressions of love is found in 1 Corinthians 13 (The Living Bible version) “Even if I had the gift of faith so that I could speak to a mountain and make it move, I would still be worth nothing at all without love. If I gave everything I have to poor people, and if I were burned alive for preaching the Gospel but didn’t love others, it would be of no value whatever. Love is very patient and kind, never jealous or envious, never boastful or proud, never haughty or selfish or rude. Love does not demand its own way. It is not irritable or touchy. It does not hold grudges and will hardly even notice when others do it wrong. It is never glad about injustice, but rejoices whenever truth wins out. If you love someone you will be loyal to him no matter what the cost. You will always believe in him, always expect the best of him, and always stand your ground in defending him.” 

 

     Does this kind of love define who you are? Can you say you truly love others by God’s standard of definition? Do you show love to your family through your words and actions? How about to your friends? Do your co workers see Christ in You? Can your neighbors tell if you are a Christian?

 

     “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” Acts 1:8

 

God will…

 

Give you love for others – “May the Lord make your love increase and overflow for each other and for everyone else, just as ours does for you.”

1 Thessalonians 3:12

 

Bring people close to Him – “But I, by your great mercy, will come into your house; in reverence will I bow down toward your holy temple.”

Psalm 5:7

 

Use your example – “Those who are wise will shine like the brightness of the heavens, and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars for ever and ever.” Daniel 12:3

 

     Copy or print the following Scripture as a simple, yet effective way to share with others how they can know God. It’s called “The Roman Road” –

 

• Romans 1:20-21
• Romans 3:23
• Romans 5:8
• Romans 6:23
• Romans 10:9-10
• Romans 10:13
• Romans11:36

 

     Prayerfully look for opportunities to share this message of Salvation with the people God places in your life!  He just may have given you, the only chance they may ever have, to be introduced to Him.

 

Father God,

 

     Thank You for saving me and giving me life eternal. I ask You today for the courage to tell others all about You and the strength to share Your love. May everyone see You in me in all I do and say. In Jesus’ name, Amen!

Denise Grant - Just "clay" in the Master Potter's hands.

 

The man who walks with God always gets to his destination.

If you have a  pulse you have a purpose.

Just As You Are

June 22, 2009

~Denise Grant

 

“And Moses said to the Lord, ‘Please, Lord, I have never been a skilled speaker. Even now, after talking to you, I cannot speak well. I speak slowly and can’t find the best words.’”  Exodus 4:10

 

Something to Think About:

 

~Have you ever felt called by God to help someone or do something good, but were too afraid to try?

~Do most of your friends have a healthy self-esteem, or are they good at faking it?

~What is something great you would like to accomplish in life? Have you talked to God about it?

 

     When God called Moses to lead the children of Israel out of Egyptian bondage, Moses was full of excuses. They won’t listen to me. I stutter. Send my brother. Moses pleaded with God to let him out of his mission. After all, he knew he was not a good speaker and felt he would only embarrass himself and God. But God looked at Moses’ speech impediment differently. God knew all Moses needed was His help to say and do the right things.

 

     Moses had deep fears about whether he was “good enough”.  Maybe you do too? It is easy for us to focus on our weaknesses, but if God asks you to do something, then you must trust that He will help you get the job done. If the job involves areas in which we are weak, then we must have faith that God will provide our words, strength, courage and the ability where it’s needed.

 

     Are you a bit fearful about testing your wings and attempting all that God has called you to do? God has confidence in you and can do great things through you – but only if you are willing to be used by God.  It’s not the possession of talents that make you extraordinarily useful to God, but the dedication of what you do for the service of God, that truly matters to Him.

 

    God was patient with Moses and did not demand that he work on his speech or schmoose with the right people to make him a more effective leader. When Moses trusted God and stepped out on faith to confront Pharaoh and help forge a free nation, he took to heart God’s promise to him: “Now go, I will help you speak, and I will teach you what to say”  Exodus 4:12.

 

     When is the last time you stepped out on faith and trusted God the way Moses did? If you will, He promises to do the same for you too, if He’s called you to do it.

 

     You should not forget that God often gives you things to accomplish that are far beyond your abilities and can use you no matter what seems to stand in the way. No matter how much “work” you think you need right now – be assured that God can use you – just as you are. “For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do” Ephesians 2:10.

 

God Will…

 

Reward your efforts – “The man who plants and the man who waters have one purpose, and each will be rewarded according to his own labor.”

 1 Corinthians 3:8

 

Delight in you – “The Lord delights in those who fear him, who put their hope in his unfailing love.” Psalm 147:11

 

Deal with you according to your heart – “But the Lord said to Samuel, ‘Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord look at the heart.” 1 Samuel 16:7

 

     Is there one thing you would like to do, but aren’t quite sure you can?  Could you sing or play an instrument with your church choir or worship team? Maybe you would consider leading a small group of other believers in a Bible study? Perhaps you join your church’s Women to Women mentoring program, or Promise Keepers or maybe even start one at church or place of work? Determine one small step you can take forward and then commit it to prayer this week.

 

Lord God,

 

     Thank You that You use us to do big things in Your world. Help me listen for and then hear Your voice and be willing and obedient to do all that You have called me to do. In Jesus’ name, Amen!

Denise Grant - Just "clay" in the Master Potter's hands.

 

The man who walks with God always gets to his destination.

If you have a  pulse you have a purpose.

Our Daily Bread

June 19, 2009

~Denise Grant

 

            “Give me neither poverty nor riches, but give me only my daily bread. Otherwise, I may have too much and disown you and say, ‘Who is the Lord?’ Or I may become poor and steal, and so dishonor the name of my God.’” Proverbs 30:8-9

 

Something to Think About:

 

~Is money an area of anxiety or contentment for you?

~Do you pay close attention to the way you spend your money?

~What significance do you think money has for your soul?

 

“Do not value money for any more nor any less than its worth; it is a good servant but a bad master.” ~ Alexandre Dumas

 

     Jesus calls us to steer clear of making money the highest priority in our lives – “No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and Money.” Matthew 6:24

 

     Our first loyalty should be to those things that never fade, cannot be stolen, used up or wear out. We should not be fascinated with our possessions or they can possess us. We may have to do some cutting back if our belongings become too important to us. Jesus beckons us to live contentedly with whatever we have as we are called to hold onto that which is eternal and lasting.

 

     Obsessing over money causes multiple problems:

• It’s easy to become distracted from God.
• We become greedy and envious.
• We become unhappy and ungrateful as we focus on what we don’t     

           have instead of what we do have.

 

     God cares so much about what we do with our money that He summons us to give a portion of our income to Him – straight off the top. “Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. ‘Test me in this,’ says the Lord Almighty. ‘and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that you will not have room enough for it.’” Malachi 3:10

 

     In all areas of our life, what matters most to God, is our level of trust in and honor for Him. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him and he will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3:5-6  As you seek to honor the Lord by asking for His counsel and following His guidelines for money and work, He will meet your needs, according to His will.“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” Matthew 6:33

 

God Will…

 

Take care of your needs – “And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:19

 

Care for the poor – “For he will deliver the needy who cry out, the afflicted who have no one to help.” Psalm 72:12

 

Help you obey Him – “For it is God who works in your to will and to act according to his good purpose.” Philippians 2:13

 

Bless those who are generous – “A generous man will himself be blessed, for he shares his food with the poor.” Proverbs 22:9

 

 

     Take a peek at your checkbook and examine how you spend your money. Are you speedily splurging, unwisely wasting or squandering on senseless junk?

We must put God first place in our life - even our spending habits. Exactly how and where we spend our money, shows where our priorities lie. What is most important to you; people, material goods, food and fun? Any of these can quickly bump God out of first place if we don’t actively choose to give him first place in every area of our life.

 

     On a small card, write: “And it is He who will supply all my needs from His riches in glory, because of what Christ Jesus has done for me.” Philippians 4:19 TLB Place it in your checkbook where you’ll see it every time you write a check, or if you pay your bills online, post it next to your computer screen. Over the next month, every time you make a purchase, ask God to help you trust and obey Him when it comes to money and how you spend it.

 

     Have you ever prayed about an intended purchase before you actually made the purchase? Try asking God what He thinks about what you want to buy - or try sleeping on it. The item is often not quite as attractive in the morning. 

 

Father God,

 

You have been so generous with me and I’m so grateful for everything You have given to me. Help me to honor You with what I buy and the way I spend my money.  In Jesus’ name, Amen!

Denise Grant - Just "clay" in the Master Potter's hands.

 

The man who walks with God always gets to his destination.

If you have a  pulse you have a purpose.