Scripture: “For thou, LORD, hast made me glad through thy work: I will triumph in the works of thy hands.” – Psalm 92:4
Examination of chapter: This psalm of praise is one that those who know the Lord can sing! David writes that those who don’t know the Lord will never know the benefits of a good and loving God, but those who have placed their faith and trust in Him will flourish and be fruitful throughout their lives.
Application: I’m sitting in a very quiet campground overlooking a sparkling blue lake thinking about the goodness of God. There is a gentle breeze blowing, creating a soft whisper among the verdant green leaves of the trees. Off in the distance, I hear the rapid tap-tap-tap of a woodpecker. The scent of a morning campfire wafts through the air, and I close my eyes enjoying the entire experience.
Imagine if God had done things differently. After all, we don’t really need our senses to exist. Think about what it would be like to live in a monochromatic world. Everything would be shades of gray; our lives would be like a black and white photograph. What if birds no longer sang or the wind’s movement didn’t rustle leaves? How would it be if roses had no fragrance or the smell of baking bread no longer filled a kitchen? Imagine a world with no smells, no colors, no beautiful sounds of nature…
But God, in His goodness, gave us five senses to enjoy our earthly lives more than we could imagine. The vivid hues of red and yellow in the dancing flames of a blazing campfire. The brilliant yellow feathers of a goldfinch perched on a nearby branch. The distant honking of a Canadian goose winging its way across the sky. The scent of bacon frying in the pan. The aroma of fresh-brewed coffee. The warmth of the sun on my face. When God created the world, He made it amazingly incredible to experience through our senses. Genesis 1:31 affirms this, “And God saw every thing that he had made, and, behold, it was very good. And the evening and the morning were the sixth day.” Today is a good day to lift our hands to the Lord and praise Him for all He has done! “O LORD, how great are thy works! and thy thoughts are very deep.” (Psalm 92:5)
There is so much about my life that God has made beautiful beyond what my senses reveal to me. But for today, I will thank Him for what I see, hear, touch, smell, and taste. Thank You, Lord, for making my world more than it could have ever been had You not desired to give me a glimpse of what heaven will be like one day.
Memory Verse: “Hearken unto this, O Job: stand still, and consider the wondrous works of God.” – Job 37:14
Stretching your thoughts:
1. What have you sensed today for which you can praise God that normally would have gone unnoticed?
All things bright and beautiful, all creatures great and small, All things wise and wonderful, the Lord God made them all.
Each little flow'r that opens, each little bird that sings, He made their glowing colors, He made their tiny wings.
The purple-headed mountain, the river running by, The sunset and the morning that brightens up the sky.
The cold wind in the winter, the pleasant summer sun, The ripe fruits in the garden: He made them every one.
He gave us eyes to see them, and lips that we might tell How great is God Almighty, who has made all things well.
(from “All Things Bright and Beautiful” by Cecil Frances Alexander)
Scripture: “For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth.” – Hebrews 12:6
Examination of chapter: The writer begins the chapter urging believers to stand strong in their faith, keeping their eyes upon Jesus. There will be challenges, but God allows struggles, and He disciplines us to train us in our Christian walk as our faith grows. The writer reminds us of those who have endured before us, and who are in the grandstands cheering us on as we go through life, striving to align ourselves with the will of God. The chapter culminates with the final destination for God’s children – His unshakeable kingdom.
Application: One of the greatest struggles in my Christian life is handling the guilt from sins committed after salvation. Sometimes I ask myself, “How could you have done that?”
Fortunately, I have never had a question about my salvation. Even though I accepted Christ when I attended a church whose doctrine included the ability to lose one’s salvation, I was too ignorant to know that was even a possibility, or so they believed! Now, I know that as a forgiven sinner whose faith is in Christ, I am secure in the hand of God, and no man (including myself) can remove me from it, no matter what I do! In John 10:29, Jesus said, “My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father’s hand.” I am so grateful for eternal security, however, I still ask, “Why would a saved person choose to engage in the ‘big’ sins?”
The Bible tells us that sin is sin, but we tend to categorize them, and those we label as the “awful” ones, the “biggies”, rarely are confessed to anyone. Sins such as abortion, same sex relationships, divorce, adultery, promiscuity, addiction to pornography or drugs… these, along with others, are all thought of as so heinous that if one has engaged in any of these, the shame and fear of judgment prohibits anyone from seeking the help they desperately need from anyone affiliated with the church. (Interesting to note, we don’t often point fingers at sins like pride, greed, lies, or cheating on taxes, which are just as heinous to God.) But if you’re homeless or a pregnant teen or a recovering drug addict, you are often pre-judged by more than just a few.
When a person accepts Christ, they do not become perfect. If a new believer is not “discipled”, that is, no one helps them grow in their new faith, the new Christian will struggle to leave their former life. Saved or not, we still have a sin nature, and those that have been involved in certain sins for a long time or believe the world’s lies that ungodly behaviors are okay, it is difficult to abruptly change. Without godly teaching, how will new converts know their choices are truly sinful? Yes, I understand the Holy Spirit convicts of sin, but the Bible is clear that the Spirit of God uses the Word of God to move the hearts of His children. Righteous living doesn’t just happen. Philippians 2:12 states, “Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.” This doesn’t mean we work for our salvation, but once saved, we work to understand more about God’s righteousness and how we can identify those parts of us that are NOT like Him. Then we work to get rid of them. But this is a process. It doesn’t happen instantaneously. We’re forgiven completely and immediately upon salvation, but the act of living “righteously” is just beginning. (This is when it’s so wonderful to be clothed in His righteousness when we get saved! Isaiah 61:10) The Bible is our standard for godly living, but truthfully, there’s a lot to learn within its pages. That is why it is so important for mature Christians to help the new ones in a loving, godly, nonjudgmental way to learn more about how to live according to God’s Word. As an individual matures in their faith, they become more sensitive to the work of God’s Spirit as He convicts of sin and helps create a new creature in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 1:6 states, “Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:” When I accepted Christ as my Saviour, God began to work on me, making me more like Jesus… that is, more aligned to His righteousness. I am still continually learning how to live according to His will, and sometimes it is two steps forward and one step backward. I still struggle with forgiving myself for my past choices. Occasionally, a tiny fear pops up and whispers that maybe God wouldn’t really forgive for a particular sin, and of course, my self-imposed AND irrational guilt keeps me from the truth in God’s Word. But, God in His goodness continually opens my eyes to His truth through sound Biblical teaching and personal Bible study.
In the last few months as I have reflected over my life and chosen behaviors, God has provided message after message that truly offered such assurance that every single sin in my life before or after salvation was completed forgiven and forgotten by Him. Intellectually, I knew that, but my heart was fearful and doubting… God in His goodness to me assured me again and again that I was His child, and that I was His work in progress. But in full transparency, those doubts still find their way in my head every now and then. However, God doesn’t quit reassuring.
This past weekend I attended a ladies’ retreat where the theme was “God as a Father”, and I loved being called a “daughter” of the King. Then, yesterday, my pastor preached on Hebrews 12:6, and BAM! Just like that, I felt the light of truth shine brighter! Hebrews 12:7 states “If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not?” I am a child of God!!! The Lord deals with me as a Father deals with His children… I am one of those!!! He definitely got hold of me years ago, and when I was saved, I became His child FOREVER!
So why do the doubts still come? In reality, I am beginning to acknowledge where the doubts have been coming from. I am reminded of Genesis 3:1 states, “Now the serpent was more subtil than any beast of the field which the LORD God had made. And he said unto the woman, Yea, hath God said, Ye shall not eat of every tree of the garden?” The Father of Lies casted doubt into Eve’s mind then just as he does to my mind now.
But God is faithful. He has been gently renewing my mind since March 10, 1968, when I bowed before Him, sought His forgiveness, and invited Him to be my personal Lord and Saviour. Romans 12:2 states, “And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.”, and Titus 3: 5 also says, “Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;” Yes, I sinned after salvation; yes, I believed the world when it said there was no one being hurt, so it was okay; yes, I carried the guilt and shame for years; but praise the Lord, I can now say, yes, I am free today because GOD IS GOOD! He tenderly held me in His arms and reminded me again and again through His Word that I belong to Him. I am His child, and He loves me with an everlasting love… then, now, and forever!
If you’ve been held captive by your post-salvation sins, it’s time to stop listening to the fiery darts of doubt that Satan continues to throw at you. As you mature in your Christian walk, you’ll understand more and more of what is still sin in your life, and what you need to do to be free of it. Realize that you are a child of God no matter what, and that He has already forgiven you. It’s time to forgive yourself. Don’t believe what your mind knows are lies; it’s time for your heart to do the same. God only speaks truth; He never lies, so believe what Jesus says in Romans 8:1, “There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.”
Memory Verse: “For whom the LORD loveth he correcteth; even as a father the son in whom he delighteth.” – Proverbs 3:12
Stretching your thoughts:
1. How do you feel realizing you are a true child of God with a heavenly Father who has forgiven your sins past, present, and future, and loves and values you so much?
2. Every now and then, one of Satan’s fiery darts of doubt may slip through your shield of faith. What strategies can you use when he continues to attack you, casting doubt on your worth to God?
He was made sin, the curse He took, when He for me did die; The load of all my past is gone, no weight on me doth lie. He says my sins are blotted out, not one can rise again; The blood He shed on Calvary cleanseth from ev'ry stain.
O wondrous grace, so rich and free, For He has died for even me; The blood He shed on Calvary Cleanseth from ev'ry stain.
(from “The Past, Present and Future” by F. E. Marsh)
Scripture: “Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the LORD.” – Psalm 31:24
Examination of chapter: David seeks God’s protection at a time when he is being besieged by his enemies. He cries out to God, knowing that He will deliver him. David knows that his hope lies in the Lord, and that God will always be faithful , merciful, and trustworthy to keep His Word.
Application: April is recognized as the “National Month of Hope”. This day was established to promote resilience, positivity, and a hopeful mindset. But no matter how many months or days are dedicated to hope, it is a perpetual search in this world as there is nothing that can offer permanent hope. No relationship, no job, no bank account, no medical procedure. Absolutely nothing in this world can offer a true, everlasting hope.
But God can.
He gives us hope in the gospel… the dead, burial and resurrection of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. Colossians 1:5 states, “For the hope which is laid up for you in heaven, whereof ye heard before in the word of the truth of the gospel;”
He gives us hope in His Word. Romans 15:4 states, “For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope.”
He gives us hope in our future with Him. Jeremiah 29:11 states, “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.”
He gives us hope of eternal life. Titus 1:2 states, “In hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began;”
Because we have assurance of these truths in the Scriptures, we can find comfort in a world that offers nothing but chaos, fear, and hopelessness. 2 Thessalonians 2:16-17 states, “Now our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God, even our Father, which hath loved us, and hath given us everlasting consolation and good hope through grace, Comfort your hearts, and stablish you in every good word and work.” Because we have hope in Jesus, we can confidently tell others about Him, offering them the same wonderful hope that we received when we placed our faith and trust in Christ.
We have the hope the world seeks, and that hope is Jesus. 1 Peter 3:15 tells us, “But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:” Share the truth of Jesus with others because in doing that, you will be giving to them the hope that they desperately seek. By placing our hope in God, we can join the psalmist when he says to the Lord, “But I will hope continually, and will yet praise thee more and more.” (Psalm 71:14)
Memory Verse: “And now, Lord, what wait I for? my hope is in thee.” – Psalm 39:7
Stretching your thoughts:
1. In what things have you placed your hope? How reliable are those things?
2. When you are feeling hopeless, what verses help you “flip the switch”?
My hope is in the Lord Who gave Himself for me, And paid the price of all my sin at Calvary. For me He died, For me He lives, And everlasting life and light He freely gives.
His grace has planned it all, 'Tis mine but to believe, And recognize His work of love and Christ receive. For me He died, For me He lives, And everlasting life and light He freely gives.
Scripture: “Be merciful unto me, O God, be merciful unto me: for my soul trusteth in thee: yea, in the shadow of thy wings will I make my refuge, until these calamities be overpast.” – Psalm 57:1
Examination of chapter: David wrote this psalm while fleeing from Saul. He cries unto God for His protection, and then praises Him repeatedly for His mercy and truth.
Application: Years ago, I remember reading an article about a disastrous fire. I cannot remember any of the details, but I do recall that during the cleanup afterwards, a dead hen was found with her wings spread out. When she was lifted up, beneath her wings were all of her chicks… alive! She had sacrificed her life to keep her babies from dying in the fire. She knew exactly what she was doing when she chose to shield her chicks under her wings. She felt the fire’s heat; she smelled the smoke, but she knew if she fled, her babies would die. She chose to forfeit her life, but through that sacrifice, her babies would live.
Like those little chicks, humanity needed protection. When sin threatened to forever destroy our relationship with God, He stepped in to save us! He knew that in order to save all of mankind, He would have to hide us under His wings. He did that by sending His only Son, Jesus Christ, to sacrifice His life so that we might live. Once we ask Jesus to forgive us and become our Lord and Saviour, we have a refuge under the wings of God that will be our hiding place forever. It is here that we find protection, safety, respite, renewal, love, grace, mercy, and peace.
There is one phenomenal difference between Jesus and the hen (okay… I know there are lots of differences, but bear with me…). When Mama Hen died to save her chicks, that was the end of her story, but when Jesus died to save us, that was just the beginning of His story! When it seemed that all hope ended with the crucifixion of Christ on that cruel cross, three days later, He rose triumphantly from the grave! Death could not hold Him, and now He is alive forevermore at the right hand of God the Father continuing to shelter us from Satan, who seeks to devour us! (1 Peter 5:8).
One day, I will be standing before Jesus, and I will see the scars on His body. I don’t know if even then I will fully understand the cost of my salvation, but I do know one thing for certain. I will know that He was always with me, keeping me safe by “spreading His wings” over me. In His presence, I will finally be able to thank Him face to face for sacrificing His life to save mine and for His faithfulness to me. Until then, my prayer will be “Keep me as the apple of the eye, hide me under the shadow of thy wings” (Psalm17:8).
Memory Verse: “Because thou hast been my help, therefore in the shadow of thy wings will I rejoice.” – Psalm 63:7
Stretching your thoughts:
1. Take a moment and reflect back to a time when you knew without a shadow of a doubt that God had kept you safely under His wings, then whisper a prayer of thanksgiving to Him!
Under His wings—oh, what precious enjoyment! There will I hide till life’s trials are o’er; Sheltered, protected, no evil can harm me; Resting in Jesus I’m safe evermore.
Under His wings, under His wings, Who from His love can sever? Under His wings my soul shall abide, Safely abide forever.
Scripture: “For as the earth bringeth forth her bud, and as the garden causeth the things that are sown in it to spring forth; so the Lord GOD will cause righteousness and praise to spring forth before all the nations.” – Isaiah 61:11
Examination of chapter: Isaiah writes about the future restoration of the city of Jerusalem and the nation of Israel. Additionally, he writes about the “Anointed One” who will heal the brokenhearted, set the captives free, and comfort those who are mourning.
Application: When my garden is in a state of neglect, as often happens during the winter months, I am faced with quite a challenge to revitalize it in the springtime. There is the removal of dead leaves, pruning of dead branches, revitalization of the soil, and laying down of mulch. Such an arduous task, but when properly done, it will yield a beautiful garden of fragrant flowers with colorful blossoms that seem alive with the buzzing of bees and the fluttering of butterfly wings!
One task that I struggle to make myself do is pull weeds! They seem to spring up overnight, and they are everywhere!! Ugh! They complete with my flowers for the nutrients in the soil, water, and sunlight! I have to remind myself that I have to get rid of the bad in order to propagate the good.
That’s a lot like growing spiritually. I have to weed out the sins in my life in order to allow the goodness of God to sprout in me! Just like in my garden, that is a task I do not enjoy doing. My sins constantly complete with what God wants to do in my life. I am reminded of what Paul said about this very thing in Romans 7:15-17, “For that which I do I allow not: for what I would, that do I not; but what I hate, that do I. If then I do that which I would not, I consent unto thelaw that it is good. Now then it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me.” The truth is that sin appeals to my carnal nature, and it’s a constant battle to keep my spiritual garden from becoming overrun with those sins! Mark 4:19 warns what happens when those weeds go unattended, “And the cares of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, and the lusts of other things entering in, choke the word, and it becometh unfruitful.”
What can I do if even Paul struggled with this? After all, he was quite a bit more spiritual than I will ever hope to be in this life. Take heart! We have a spiritual weed killer available to us 24/7, and that is the Word of God. It’s the manual for having a beautifully thriving spiritual garden!
How to get rid of the weeds
1. Acknowledge and repent of the sin in my life
“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” – 1 John 1:9
2. Renew my mind with Scripture
“Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.” – Psalm 119:11
3. Submit to God
“Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” – James 4:7
4. Recommit yourself to Christ daily
“And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” – Luke 9:23
To keep my flower garden free of weeds, I must constantly be examining the soil for the appearance of those invasive plants. Some of those weeds are very stubborn and require great effort to pull them out, so I have to catch them early. The minute I see them growing, I yank them out completely… root and all. This is also what I must do in my spiritual garden. Self-examination is a must, and the moment I notice a sprouting of sin, I must uproot it and cast it out completely.
As soon as I become complacent about the weeds, they will quickly overrun my physical and spiritual gardens. As written in 1 Peter 5:8, I must “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:” If you diligently weed, your garden will yield beautiful flowers of faith!
Memory Verse: “Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.” – Psalm 51:10
Stretching your thoughts:
1. What spiritual weeds are you holding on to?
2. Why do you find yourself wanting to hold on to those things that are not pleasing to the Lord?
3. To whom can you go for help in getting rid of those stubborn weeds?
There’s a garden where Jesus is waiting, There’s a place that is wondrously fair, For it glows with the light of His presence ’Tis that beautiful garden of prayer.
O the beautiful garden, the garden of prayer, O the beautiful garden of prayer! There my Savior awaits, and He opens the gates to the beautiful garden of prayer.
There’s a garden where Jesus is waiting, And He bids you to come meet Him there, Just to bow and receive a new blessing In the beautiful garden of prayer.
O the beautiful garden, the garden of prayer, O the beautiful garden of prayer! There my Savior awaits, and He opens the gates to the beautiful garden of prayer.
(from “The Beautiful Garden of Prayer” by Eleanor Allen Schroll)
Scripture: “Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit.” – John 15:2
Examination of chapter: Jesus is teaching His disciples about the importance of being connected to Him in order to accomplish God’s will. He uses the illustration of a vine as the source of energy and power for its branches to be able to grow and produce fruit.
Application: I have several rose bushes in my flower garden, and as much as I dislike the task, pruning is essential for them to be healthy and produce many flowers. Avoiding the thorns while I remove the dead branches is no fun, but I know that in the spring, there will be new growth and beautiful roses to admire.
Spiritual pruning is also a necessity, but often an unwelcome process in our Christian lives. It is a time when God removes all the “dead branches” – those things that hinder our spiritual growth and “fruitfulness”. Those things that inhibit the growth of our faith and service include pride, bitterness, toxic relationships, gossip, etc. There are so many sinful behaviors that stunt our spiritual growth, and when the Lord prunes those things away, the result is a healthier and more fruitful child of God.
When I prune my roses, it is not because I don’t like them; it’s quite the opposite! I enjoy the brightly colored blooms, the sweet fragrance, and the butterflies and bees that they attract. It is the same with God. He doesn’t allow us to go through hard times and challenges as a punishment, but rather as a loving time of cultivation to draw us closer to Him and make us more aligned with His will for our lives.
While pruning is not always a pleasant process, we must trust God, our “gardener”, to do what is needed to make us more like Him. In Philippians 1:6, He assures us that His pruning is a “good work”. “Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:” We must willingly release everything He cuts away from us, remembering that He only wants the best part of us to remain!
In John 15:5, Jesus reminds us, “I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.” As the faith of believers grows stronger from His pruning, they blossom more brilliantly as a beautiful reflection of Jesus, drawing others to Him just as the springtime roses invite the butterflies and bees!
John 15:1 records Jesus’ words, “I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman.” Let us always remain connected to the “true vine”, our Lord Jesus Christ. Through prayer, Bible study, and trusting His pruning process, we become more able to produce a bounty of spiritual fruit for our heavenly Father.
Memory Verse: “Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples.” – John 15:8
Stretching your thoughts:
1. In what areas of your life is the Lord pruning away?
2. Why is it difficult to let go of these “diseased branches”?
I am the vine, and ye are the branches, Bear precious fruit for Jesus today; The branch that in me no fruit ever beareth, Jesus hath said, "He taketh away."
I am the vine, and ye are the branches; I am the vine, be faithful and true; Ask what ye will, your pray'r shall be granted, "The Father loved me, so I have loved you."
Scripture: “God is not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent: hath he said, and shall he not do it? or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good?” – Numbers 23:19
Examination of chapter: King Balak is ordering the prophet Balaam to curse Israel, but the prophet refuses to do so. Instead, the Lord instructs Balaam to bless Israel demonstrating His faithfulness to keeping His promise to preserve and protect His chosen people.
Application: Springtime is a time of promise that life will continue. I had cut back some of my roses a few months ago, and now I notice there are lots of new buds on the bushes! It promises to be a very beautiful flower garden in just a few days!
The Bible is full of promises that God has made throughout all of its pages. Some are glorious and tell of a wonderful future with Him, while others are harsh warnings of judgment that one day come to pass. Many promises that God made have already been fulfilled, and because of that, we can be assured that all the other promises He has made will most certainly come to fruition in His appointed time.
Here are a few of God’s promises that He has already fulfilled.
Promise of a son to Abraham – “And God said, Sarah thy wife shall bear thee a son indeed; and thou shalt call his name Isaac: and I will establish my covenant with him for an everlasting covenant, and with his seed after him.” – Genesis 17:19
Fulfillment – “For Sarah conceived, and bare Abraham a son in his old age, at the set time of which God had spoken to him. And Abraham called the name of his son that was born unto him, whom Sarah bare to him, Isaac.” – Genesis 21:2-3
Promise of deliverance from Babylonian captivity – “For thus saith the LORD, That after seventy years be accomplished at Babylon I will visit you, and perform my good word toward you, in causing you to return to this place.” – Jeremiah 29:10
Fulfillment – “Now these are the children of the province that went up out of the captivity, of those which had been carried away, whom Nebuchadnezzar the king of Babylon had carried away unto Babylon, and came again unto Jerusalem and Judah, every one unto his city;” – Ezra 2:1
Promise of a Messiah – “Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.” – Isaiah 7:14
Fulfillment – “For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.” – Luke 2:11
Promise of the resurrection of Jesus – “Saying, Behold, we go up to Jerusalem; and the Son of man shall be delivered unto the chief priests, and unto the scribes; and they shall condemn him to death, and shall deliver him to the Gentiles: And they shall mock him, and shall scourge him, and shall spit upon him, and shall kill him: and the third day he shall rise again.” – Mark 10:33-34
Fulfillment: “He is not here: for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay.” – Matthew 28:6
Here are some promises that God has yet to fulfill, but will do so in the future.
Promise of salvation through Christ alone – “Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.” – Acts 4:12
Promise of eternal life – “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” – John 3:16
Promise of Jesus coming again – “And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.” – John 14:3
Promise of a future without sorrow for believers – “And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.” – Revelation 21:1
Promise of judgment – “For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.” – 2 Corinthians 5:10
Promise of salvation from God’s anger – “For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ,” -1 Thessalonians 5:9
God never lies, and if He promises He will do something, you can be sure He will. When He makes a promise, it’s for keeps!
Memory Verse: “Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;)”– Hebrews 10:23
Stretching your thoughts:
1. Sometimes it’s hard to wait for God to fulfill a promise. What would you say to someone who is struggling with waiting?
2. What do you do when waiting on God to fulfill a promise becomes difficult?
Standing on the promises of Christ, my King! Through eternal ages let His praises ring. "Glory in the highest!" I will shout and sing, standing on the promises of God.
Standing, standing, standing on the promises of God, my Savior; Standing, standing, I’m standing on the promises of God.
Standing on the promises that cannot fail! When the howling storms of doubt and fear assail, By the living Word of God I shall prevail, standing on the promises of God.
Standing, standing, standing on the promises of God, my Savior; Standing, standing, I’m standing on the promises of God.
(from “Standing on the Promises” by Russell Kelso Carter)
Scripture: “Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.” – Psalm 51:10
Examination of chapter: This psalm of David was written after his sin with Bathsheba. He is asking God to forgive him, cleanse him from his sin,and restore to him the joy of God’s salvation.
Application: Spring cleaning is that time of year when many of us “deep” clean our homes. We get rid of the clutter and unimportant things we’ve managed to collect throughout the previous 12 months or so. I don’t know about you, but I am so resistant to doing this! I struggle to toss out things that I “might need”, but I need to remind myself of a couple of things. First, if I haven’t used it in a year, there’s a good chance, I don’t need it. Second, if I didn’t even remember I had it, I really don’t need to keep it.
That’s the same way it is with our spiritual life. Holding on to things we don’t need can be a huge obstacle to the growth of our faith and our service to the Lord. Here are a few things I need to toss out as I conduct my spiritual spring cleaning.
1. Sins of the past: “Remember ye not the former things, neither consider the things of old.” – Isaiah 43:18
When we hold on to “how bad we used to be”, it perpetuates the shame and guilt that Jesus paid for on the cross. His sacrifice took care of it all, and frankly, if God tells us that He “remembers them no more”, why should we cling to our wretched past? We are told to look forward to our new life in Christ, not backward to our old life of sin. Toss out those past sins!
2. Hurt feelings: “And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.” – Ephesians 4:32
Holding on to hurt feelings definitely inhibits our service for Christ, and eventually becomes a bitter wall that is difficult to tear down. In reality, my friends and family do not intentionally try to hurt my feelings, and I need to remember that. I need to be a “grace dispenser”, after all, I am sure I have said or done things that unintentionally hurt another person, and I would hope they would give me a little grace as well. Of course, when I am aware that I have hurt someone’s feelings, a speedy apology heals both me and the one to whom I’ve caused grief. Toss out those hurt feelings!
God loves for us to communicate with Him. Not only does He love it, He made a way for us to have access to Him 24/7. When Jesus died on the cross, the temple veil was rent in two from top to bottom. This showed two important things: 1) The Lord Himself did the tearing down of the barrier between God and man, and 2) The holiest of places, the throne room of God was symbolically made available to all whose faith and trust has been place in Jesus. No matter if I am praising and worshiping Him or asking Him for guidance or interceding for someone else… God wants to hear from me always! Toss out that lazy attitude about prayer!
4. Dusty Bible – “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” – 2 Timothy 3:15
I remember hearing a story about a family that heard a preacher was coming to visit, so they found their family Bible, dusted it off, and set it on the living room table in full view for the visit. I should always be sure my Bible never needs dusting! It is so important to make time to read and study the Word of God. It’s our manual for godly living. Without it, it becomes difficult for our faith to grow. Romans 10:17 states, “So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” My desire is to become closer to God and live as best I can according to His principles outlined in Scripture. To do this, I must be in the Bible on a regular basis, not just when I’m in church. I need my private time with God, so He can speak to me through His Word. Toss out the Bible feather duster!
These are just a few things on my spiritual spring cleaning list. I know there are more, so I’ll need to listen to my helper, the Holy Spirit, to be sure I get rid of all the “stuff” that I don’t need. What about you? Are you ready to start cleaning?
Memory Verse: “And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” – Romans 12:2
Stretching your thoughts:
1. What will you toss out in your spiritual spring cleaning this year?
2. What is it that you’ve held on to through the years, but in reality, it should be tossed?
Take time to be holy, speak oft with thy Lord; abide in Him always, and feed on His word. Make friends of God’s children, help those who are weak, forgetting in nothing His blessing to seek.
Take time to be holy, the world rushes on; spend much time in secret with Jesus alone. By looking to Jesus, like Him thou shalt be; thy friends in thy conduct His likeness shall see.
Take time to be holy, let Him be thy guide, and run not before Him, whatever betide. In joy or in sorrow, still follow the Lord, and, looking to Jesus, still trust in His word.
Take time to be holy, be calm in thy soul, each thought and each motive beneath His control. Thus led by His Spirit to fountains of love, thou soon shalt be fitted for service above.
(from “Take Time to Be Holy” by William Longstaff)
Scripture: “Simon Peter saith unto them, I go a fishing. They say unto him, We also go with thee. They went forth, and entered into a ship immediately; and that night they caught nothing.” – John 21:3
Examination of the chapter: This final chapter of the book of John sees the disciples going back to their lives prior to joining Jesus in His ministry. After a long night of fishing with no luck, they head back to the shores of Galilee only to see a man there. He calls out to them, inquiring about their success. Upon hearing they have no fish, He tells them to cast their nets on the other side of their boat, and immediately, their nets are full of fish! Peter realizes it’s Jesus, and jumps out of the boat, running to Him. After sharing a meal, Jesus commissions them to continue His ministry after He is gone.
Application: A few weeks prior to Easter, churches are decorated with lilies and crosses with purple cloths draped upon them. New outfits are purchased for Easter Sunday, and family dinners are planned. In the stores, multi-colored marshmallow “peeps” and other holiday candies fill the shelves. Christians around the world enthusiastically celebrate the glorious resurrection of our Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ. Then Monday comes. The lilies are gone from the churches; the fancy dresses are hung up for a later time, and the peeps disappear from the stores. The religious world resumes its pre-Easter daily activities, and the excitement of the resurrection is shelved until next year. In essence, people across the globe return to their boats and “go fishing” as before.
Jesus has called each one of us to continue His ministry faithfully until He returns. Known as the Great Commission, Matthew 28:19-20 states, “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.” This is not the time to “go fishing”. Soon, the Father will tell His beloved Son that it is time to go and get His children. Let’s not be found fishing, but instead, may Jesus find us busy “about our Father’s business”, excited to be serving our risen Saviour, and eager to introduce others to Him!!
Let’s not be Easter “peeps” and get packed away until next spring. Instead, let us make a concerted effort to make the excitement of the resurrection a daily reality not just an annual event!
Memory Verse: “And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;” – Colossians 3:23
Stretching your thoughts:
1. Do you find yourself as an Easter peep? If so, how can you keep the resurrection alive in your heart throughout the year?
I serve a risen Savior, He’s in the world today. I know that He is living, whatever men may say. I see His hand of mercy; I hear His voice of cheer; And just the time I need Him, He’s always near.
He lives, He lives, Christ Jesus lives today! He walks with me and talks with me along life’s narrow way. He lives, He lives, salvation to impart! You ask me how I know He lives? He lives within my heart.
In all the world around me, I see His loving care, And though my heart grows weary, I never will despair; I know that He is leading, through all the stormy blast; The day of His appearing will come at last.
He lives, He lives, Christ Jesus lives today! He walks with me and talks with me along life’s narrow way. He lives, He lives, salvation to impart! You ask me how I know He lives? He lives within my heart.
Scripture: “And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh.” – Luke 21:28
Examination of chapter: Jesus honors a widow who gives all she has to God, then He goes on to describe the destruction that will befall Jerusalem and Israel in the future. The signs of the end times is shared, as well as the importance of keeping watch for the coming of the Son of Man.
Application: One of my greatest pleasures in retirement is traveling. No matter where I’m going, whether it’s camping or cruising, I still have a lot of preparations to make before leaving on my trips. Luggage to pack, medication to fill, tours to books, and a full itinerary for my family to reach me in case of emergency. Once that is accomplished, all I have to do is count down the days to departure!
I have another trip I’m planning, so, of course, I am busily preparing for that departure. It’s a “destination wedding”, and while I don’t have an exact date of when it will be, it is sure to be soon, and I want to be ready! I know that the bridegroom is preparing a huge feast, and when His bride arrives, the celebration will be amazing! Several of my friends and family have already gone to be there, and I can’t wait to join them. By the way, you’re welcome to come too! There’s always room for one more!
All you’ll need is a reservation, and that can easily be arranged.
How to get a reservation:
Admit you’re a sinner and repent of your sins.
“For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;” – Romans 3:23
Believe that Jesus is the Son of God who died in your place to take the punishment for your sins, and rose from the dead to be the Savior of the world.
“For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; and that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures:”– 1 Corinthians 15:3-4
Call upon Christ to forgive your sins and be your Lord and Saviour.
“For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.” – Romans 10:13
That’s it! Once you’ve placed your faith and trust in the Lord Jesus Christ, you are on the official guest list with your name written in the Lamb’s Book of Life! Revelation 21:27 explains the parameters of the guest list, “And there shall in no wise enter into it any thing that defileth, neither whatsoever worketh abomination, or maketh a lie: but they which are written in the Lamb’s book of life.”
When are we going? 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 tells us how we’ll know the time. “For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.”
I’m sure you’ve figured out the location of this destination wedding. Sure hope I’ll see you there! “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you, Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.” (1 Peter 1:3-5)
Memory Verse: “And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.” – John 14:3
Stretching your thoughts:
1. Jesus stated that He was the only way to get to heaven. How would you respond to someone who claimed there were multiple ways to get to heaven?
Lord, I care not for riches, neither silver nor gold; I would make sure of heaven, I would enter the fold. In the book of Thy kingdom with its pages so fair, Tell me, Jesus, my Savior, is my name written there?
Is my name written there on the page white and fair? In the book of Thy kingdom, is my name written there?
Lord, my sins they are many, like the sands of the sea, But Thy blood, O my Savior, is sufficient for me; For Thy promise is written in bright letters that glow, "Though your sins be as scarlet, I will make them like snow."
Is my name written there on the page white and fair? In the book of Thy kingdom, is my name written there?
O that beautiful city with its mansions of light, With its glorified beings in pure garments of white; Where no evil thing cometh to despoil what is fair, Where the angels are watching, yes, my name's written there.
Yes, my name’s written there on the page white and fair; In the book of Thy Kingdom, yes, my name’s written there!
(from “Is My Name Written There” by Mary A. Kidder)
