[APRIL 27] For the Sake of His Name

Read: 1 Samuel 12:19-25

"I will never leave you nor forsake you" 

--Hebrews 13:5

The ancient Israelites gathered at Gilgal for the coronation of Saul as their first king (1 Sam. 11:15). The Lord was not pleased that His people had asked for a king, yet on this occasion Samuel uttered these words: “The Lord will not forsake His people, for His great name’s sake, because it has pleased the Lord to make you His people” (12:22).

We too are God’s “own special people” if we have trusted Jesus as Savior (1 Peter 2:9). He will not forsake us even though He knows we will fail Him. He knows what we are like—sinful, weak, and frail. He knew it before He called us and drew us to Himself. The certainty of our salvation rests not in ourselves but on the character of God (1 John 5:20). He will keep us to the end.

This does not give us an excuse to continue in sin. Paul said, “Certainly not! How shall we who died to sin live any longer in it?” (Rom. 6:2). Our choices do reflect on God’s reputation, our witness in the world, and our fellowship with Him. But God will never reject His people, those who are truly His. The Lord cannot and will not forsake His own (Heb. 13:5).

We can rest assured. What God saves, He keeps—for the sake of His great name! --David Roper

"Able to keep!" how sure is the word!

He is my Keeper, Savior, and Lord.

"Never shall perish," one of His sheep,

Glory to God! He is able to keep. --Anon.

REFLECT ON THIS:

Lives rooted in God’s unchanging grace can never be uprooted.

[APRIL 26] A Universe of Humanity

Read: Acts 28:16-31

"Paul... received all who came to him" 

--Acts 28:30

During the 1920s and 30s, photographer August Sander set out to portray a cross-section of German society. Through his lens he saw factory workers and financiers, actresses and housewives, Nazis and Jews. Even though his published collection contains only people in and around his hometown of Cologne, he captured what David Propson, writing in The Wall Street Journal, called “a universe of humanity in his restricted sphere.”

That phrase strikes me as an apt description of our lives and the people we meet day by day. Wherever we live, we cross paths with people from many backgrounds and beliefs.

For years, the apostle Paul traveled and preached before being imprisoned in Rome. There he continued to touch people with the gospel because he cared about them and wanted them to know Jesus Christ. The book of Acts concludes with Paul confined in Rome, living under guard in a rented house, where he “received all who came to him, preaching the kingdom of God and teaching the things which concern the Lord Jesus Christ” (Acts 28:30-31).

Instead of focusing on his restrictions, Paul saw opportunities. That’s the key for us as well. There is a universe of humanity within our reach today. --David McCasland

You are called with a holy calling

The light of the world to be, 

To lift up the lamp of the gospel

That others the light may see. --Anon.

REFLECT ON THIS:

The gospel is a priceless gift that’s offered free to everyone.

[APRIL 25] Our Co--Pilot

Read: Galatians 2:11-21

    

"I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me."

--Galatians 2:20

The bumper sticker "Jesus is my co-pilot" may be a well-intentioned sentiment, but it has always troubled me. Whenever I`m in the driver`s seat of my life, the destination is nowhere good. Jesus is not meant to be just a spiritual "co-pilot" giving directions every now and then. He is always meant to be in the driver's seat. Period!

We often say that Jesus died for us, which of course is true. But there's more to it than that. Because Jesus died on the cross, something inside of us died-the power of sin. It`s what Paul meant when he said, "I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me" (Gal. 2:20). We were essentially co-crucified with Him. With Jesus in the driver`s seat, the old destinations are off-limits. No more turning down the streets of self-centeredness, greed, or lust. No more off-road ventures into the swamp of pride or the ditch of bitterness. We were crucified with Him and He is at the wheel  now! He died so that He alone can drive and define us.

So, if you`ve died and Christ lives in you, He's not your co-pilot. Your joy is to let Him drive and define your life. There may be a few bumps in the road, but you can count on it-He`ll take you somewhere good. --Joe Stowell

                                                                Lord, I thank You for salvation,

                                                                For Your mercy, full and free:

                                                                Take my all in consecration,

                                                               Glorify Yourself in me. --Codner

REFLECT ON THIS:

Still at the wheel of your life? It's time to let Jesus drive.

[APRIL 24] Many People

Read: Acts 18:1-11

"I have many people in this city." 

--Acts 18:10

New York City. Easter Sunday, 7:30 a.m. I was the only customer at Jimmy’s Diner in East Harlem when a man entered and approached my table. He said, “Good morning, and God bless you,” left a gospel tract, and quickly walked out. I smiled, appreciating his witness and realizing that God has His people everywhere. That night I attended church with our daughter Debbie, joining an enthusiastic congregation of 300 people, most in their twenties and thirties. Their infectious love for Christ and others was a bright light in a city that is often considered spiritually dark.

In the first century, Paul visited the Greek city of Corinth, which was known for its immorality and corruption. When he faced opposition for presenting Jesus as Messiah, the Lord spoke to Paul in a vision: “Do not be afraid, but speak, and do not keep silent; for I am with you, and no one will attack you to hurt you; for I have many people in this city” (Acts 18:9-10).

No matter where we go, the Lord’s people are there. The risen Christ is powerfully present in and through all who know Him. The Lord has His people where you are today. Look for them. Join them.

Christ is risen indeed! --David McCasland

When Christians join in blessed fellowship

Commemorating Jesus' resurrection,

They sense a common bond of unity--

Their mutual faith in Him the true connection. --Hess

REFLECT ON THIS:

God has His people where you are today.

[APRIL 23] A New Normal

Read: Romans 6:1-11

"Just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life."

--Romans 6:4

After my doctor announced that I has cancer, I tried to listen to what he said, but I couldn't. I went home, pulled a blanket over my head, and fell asleep on the couch, as if sleeping could change the diagnosis.

When I finally gained enough strength to tell my loved ones, my friend Judy Schreur said something especially memorable. After expressing her sympathy, she said, "This is what will happen. You will feel really bad for 3 days. Then you will get up, figure out what you have to do, and get on with your life." Then she sdded, "I think it has to do with death, burial, and resurrection."

At the time, I didn't believe it. I was sure that life as I knew it was over. Nothing would ever be the same. I couldn't imagine feeling normal again. But she was right. Three days later I woke up and realized I didn't feel quite so bad. And little by little, despite the physical misery of chemotherapy treatments, my emotional and spiritual condition improved significantly. I "died" to my old reality and was "raised" to a new normal.

Thankfully, God is in the business of resurrection. For those who have died in Christ, the death of one reality means resurrection to a new, glorious normal so we can "walk in newness of life" (Rom.6:4). --Julie Ackerman Link

Jesus redeemed us and died in our stead;

In Him we died and rose from the dead.

No longer is death a thing that we dread;

The old is behind us, the new is ahead. --D.De Haan

REFLECT ON THIS:

To be "in Christ" is to share in His life, in His death, and in His resurrection.

[APRIL 22] Like a Lamb

Read: John 15:9-17

"He was led as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before it shearers is silent, so He opened not His mouth."

--Isaiah 53:7

In 1602, Italian artist Caravaggio produced a painting called Taking of Christ. This work, an early example of the Baroque style, is compelling. Created in dark hues, it allows the viewer to contemplate Jesus' arrest in the Garden of Gethsemane. Two main elements of the scene depicted in the painting demand the observer's attention. The first if Judas as he delivers the traitor's kiss. Immediately, however, the viewer's focus is drawn toward Jesus' hands, which are passively clasped together to show that He offered no resistance to this injustice. Although He possessed the power to create a universe, Christ gave Himself up voluntarily to His captors and to the waiting cross.

Long before this scene took place, Jesus told His listeners that no one could take His life from Him--He would lay it down willingly (John 10:18). This heart of voluntary surrender was propheseid by Isaiah, who wrote, " He was led as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before its shearers is silent, so He opened His  mouth (Isa.53:7).

Christ's lamblike self-sacrifice is a grand indicator of His powerful love. "Greater love has no one than this," He explained, "than to lay down one's life for his friends" (John 15:13). Think of it. Jesus loved you that much! --Bill Crowder

Love sent the Savior to die in my stead.

Why should He love me so?

Meekly to Calvary's cross He was led.

Why should He love me so? --Harkness

REFLECT ON THIS:

The nail-pierced hands of Jesus reveal the love-filled heat of God.

[APRIL 21] False Hope

Read: Ephesians 2:1-10

"By grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works"

--Ephesians 2:8-9

The name of a pretty Bavarian town in Germany shares the name of a place of horror—Dachau. A museum on the grounds of this infamous Nazi concentration camp attracts many World War II history buffs.

As you look around, it would be hard to miss the misleading words welded to an iron gate: Arbeit Macht Frei. This phrase—Work Makes You Free—was just a cruel lie to give false hope to those who entered this place of death.

Many people today have false hope that they can earn a place in heaven by working at being good or by doing good things. God’s standard of perfection, however, requires a totally sinless life. There’s no way any of us can ever be “good enough.” It is only through the sacrifice of the sinless Savior that we are made righteous. God made Jesus “who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him” (2 Cor. 5:21). Eternal life is given because of God’s gift of grace—not because of our good works (Eph. 2:8-9).

Don’t let Satan trick you by giving you false hope that your good works will save you. It is only through Jesus’ work on the cross that you can have real freedom. --Cindy Hess Kasper

Accept the teaching of the world

And hopeless you will be, 

But trust in God's eternal plan

If you want life that's free. --Branon

REFLECT ON THIS:

We are not saved by good works, but by God’s work.

[APRIL 20] Poor Examples

Read: Matthew 23:1-13

"Whatever they tell you to observe, that observe and do, but do not do according to their works; for they say, and do not do."

--Matthew 23:3

A woman in Oregon was caught driving 103 miles per hour with her 10-year old grandson in the car. When she was stopped by the police, she told them that she was only trying to teach him never to drive that fast. I suppose she wanted to do as she said, not as she did.

The Pharises and teachers of the law seemed to have a similar problem. Jesus had a scathing assessment of them: They were spiritually bankrupt. He held these two groups directly responsible for this sad spiritual condition. As the successors of the law-giver Moses, they were responsible for expanding the law so the people would walk in God's ways and have a genuine and vibrant relationship with the Lord (Deut. 10:12-13). But their personal interpretation and application of the law became more important than God's law. They did not practice what they preached. What they did observe was done not to bring glory to God but to honor themselves. Jesus exposed who they were--image managers, posers, and hypocrites.

The test of the effectiveness of following Jesus is not just in what we say but in how we live. Are we telling others God's Word and doing what it says? Let's model by words and actions what it means to follow Him. --Marvin Williams

Christians, remember you bear His dear name,

Your lives are for others to view;

You are living examples--men praise you or blame,

And measure your Savior by you. --Anon.

REFLECT ON THIS:

A good example preaches a powerful sermon.

[APRIL 19] The Secret Chamber

Read: Isaiah 50:4-5

"Whatever I tell you in the dark, speak in the light."

--Matthew 10:27

People have some needs that are excruciatingly deep. Poet Alfred, Lord Tennyson wrote, "Never morning wore to evening, but some heart did break."

We find ourselves in conversation at times with heartbroken friends and may feel at an utter loss to know what to say. How can we "speak a word in season to him who is weary," as it says in Isaiah 50:4?

Telling people what human teachers have taught us may have some impact on them. But the most helpful or persuasive words are spoken by those who are taught by the Lord Himself.

That's why it's essential for us to sit at Jesus' feet and learn from Him. The more we receive from Him, the more we have to give to others. George MacDonald pictures this time with the Lord as having ''a chamber in God Himself." He continues: ''Out of [that] chamber . . . man has to bring revelation and strength for his brethren. This is that for which he was made."

It's through our thoughtful and prayerful Bible study, reading, and quiet meditation that God speaks to our hearts. He gives us "the tongue of the learned" (Isa. 50:4) so that we have something to share with those who are in the depths of despair. --David Roper

The comfort God has given us

He wants us all to share 

With others who, with broken hearts,

Are caught in deep despair. --Sper

REFLECT ON THIS:

Listen to God's heart, then speak from your heart to others.

[APRIL 18] A Wrong Reading

Read: 1 Timothy 1:18-20

"Wage the good warfare, having faith and a good conscience, which some having rejected,... have suffered shipwreck."

--1 Tim. 1:18-19

William Scoresby was a British seafaring explorer in the 19th century who responded to God's call to the ministry. An interest in the workings of navigational compasses stayed with him during his work as a clergyman. His research led to the discovery that all newly built iron ships had their own magnetic influence on compasses. This influence would change at sea for various reasons-leading crews to read the compass incorrectly. Often this led to disaster.

There is a striking parallel between the misread compass and false biblical teaching. In 1 Timothy 1, Paul warned against "fables and endless genealogies" (v.4)-man-made changes in the doctrines of God's Word. People who teach false doctrines "have suffered shipwreck," Paul concludes (v.19). Two people who opposed the Word of God by placing false teaching in its place, and who thus faced spiritual shipwreck, were Alexander and Hymenaeus (v.20).

Biblical truth is being questioned and in some cases even replaced in the church today. Our opinions must never replace the truth of God's Word. The Bible, not man's erroneous opinions about it, is the ultimate guide for our conscience in navigating life`s changing seas. Beware of wrong readings. --Dennis Fisher

God's words of pure, eternal truth

Shall yet unshaken stay,
When all that man has thought or planned,

Like chaff has passed away. --Anon.

REFLECT ON THIS:

The first point of wisdom is to know the truth, the second to discern what is false.

[APRIL 17] God Needs You!

Read: Mark 11:1-7

"If anyone says to you, "Why are you doing this? say, "The Lord has need of it."

--Mark 11:3

For His triumphal entry into Jerusalem, Jesus chose a donkey to serve as His royal transportation. His Disciples were instructed to say, "The Lord has need of it" (Mark 11:3). Isn't it astounding that the Son of God should use such lowly means to accomplish His purposes? Alexander MacLaren commented on this: "Christ comes to us in like fashion, and brushes aside all our convenient excuses. He says, 'I want you, and that is enough.' "

Think of it! The Creator of the universe needs us and desires to fit us into His eternal design! Though all powerful and not dependent on any creature, He has chosen to carry out His plans through lowly human instruments. If this were not so, He would have taken us to heaven as soon as He saved us by His grace.

Someone once asked Francis of Assisi how he was able to accomplish so much. He replied, "This may be why: The Lord looked down from heaven and said, 'Where can I find the weakest, littlest man on earth?' Then He saw me and said, 'I've found him. I will work through him, and he won't be proud of it. He'll see that I am only using him because of his insignificance.' "

You may be small in your own eyes, but God has need of you! --Paul Van Gorder

Yours is a mission you alone can fill,

Whether it be to build or teach or till;

Your goal may still be hidden from your view,

But somewhere God has urgent need of you. --Thayer

REFLECT ON THIS:

God is looking for ordinary people for extraordinary work.

[APRIL 16] The Treasure and The Pots

Read: 2 Corinthians 4:1-11

"We have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellence of the power may be God and not of us."

--2 Corinthians 4:7

It has been said that the Roman Empire ran on olive oil. It was used in cooking, bathing, medicine, ceremonies, lamps, and cosmetics. For decades, olive oil from southern Spain was shipped to Rome in large clay jugs called amphorae. Those jugs, not worth sending back, were discarded in a growing heap of broken shards known as Monte Testaccio. The fragments of an estimated 25 million amphorae created that man-made hill, which stands today on the bank of the Tiber River in Rome. In the ancient world, the value of those pots was not their beauty but their contents.

Because of this, the first-century followers of Christ would have clearly understood Paul's illustration of the life jesus in every believer. "But we have this treasure in earthen vessel, that the excellence of the power may be of God and not of us" (2 Cor.4:7).

Our bodies, like amphorae, are temporary, fragile, and expendable. In our modern world that highly values outward beauty, we would be wise to remember that our greatest treasure is the life of Jesus within us. By God's grace and power, may we live so that others can see Christ in us.

We are just the clay pots. Jesus is the true treasure within us. --David McCasland

Although my outward shell decays,

I'm inwardly renewed each day,

Because the life and power of Christ

Indwells this fragile jar of clay. --Sper

REFLECT ON THIS:

Christ is seen most clearly when we remain in the background. 

[APRIL 15] Agents of Change

Read: 2 Timothy 2:19-26

"If anyone cleanses himself... , he will be a vessel for honor, sanctified and useful for the Master, prepared for every good work" 

--2 Timothy 2:21

With 4 years of seminary under my belt, I walked into my first ministry with a long agenda. As a new pastor, I thought I was there to change that place. Instead, God used that place to change me.

The board members were supportive, but they relentlessly kept my feet to the fire in administrative details. I needed to learn how to work with lay leadership, how to be careful in my work, and how to dream with others.

We often think God has assigned us to change the world around us when in reality He is interested in changing us. Why? To make each of us “a vessel for honor, sanctified and useful for the Master, prepared for every good work” (2 Tim. 2:21). God often uses the most unlikely people in the most unlikely places to teach us some of life’s most difficult lessons. And just when we think we’ve arrived, He is instructing us further.

Not long ago I entered a new season of ministry. I may be a “seasoned veteran,” but I’m still learning, still growing, and still amazed at how God continues to shape this vessel for His noble purposes.

If you want to be an agent of change, don’t resist the true Agent of Change. He has your best interest—and His—at heart! --Joe Stowell

What changes we would love to make

In other's lives, for Jesus' sake!

But first we must learn at His feet

Th things that will make us complete. --Branon

REFLECT ON THIS:

Only when we are changed can we be agents of change.

[APRIL 14] Unseen Workers

Read: Romans 12:1-10

"We have many members in one body, but all the members do not have the same function"

--Romans 12:4

As I was giving myself a manicure, I started feeling sorry for my right hand. It does the most work, but my left hand gets the most attention. My right hand applies nail polish smoothly to my left-hand nails, but my left hand, lacking skill and coordination, does not return the favor. The polish on my right hand is always smeared and messy. One hand does the better work, but the other hand gets all the attention and honor.

As I worked on my fingernails, my thoughts turned toward something much more important—the people in my church, many of whom are highly skilled at tasks that make others look good. These hardworking folks, however, seldom get noticed, because their work puts the attention on someone else. It seems unfair that those who do such good work get little appreciation.

Truly servant-minded believers, though, don’t see it that way. They give preference to others (Rom. 12:10) because they know that God sees what others do not—and that He will reward those whose work is unseen by others (Matt. 6:4,6,18; 1 Cor. 12:24).

Is someone else reaping the benefit of your hard work? Be encouraged. God rewards those who work “invisibly” to make Christ visible to the world. --Jackie Ackerman Link

The service that we do for God

May go unpraised by men;

But when we stand before the Lord,

He will reward us then. --Sper

REFLECT ON THIS:

No service for Christ goes unnoticed by Him.

[APRIL 13] He Never Sleeps

Read: Psalm 121

"He will not allow your foot to be moved; He who keeps you will not slumber" 

--Psalm 121:3

Giraffes have the shortest sleep cycle of any mammal. They sleep only between 10 minutes and 2 hours in a 24-hour period and average just 1.9 hours of sleep per day. Seemingly always awake, the giraffe has nothing much in common with most humans in that regard. If we had so little sleep, it would probably mean we had some form of insomnia. But for giraffes, it’s not a sleep disorder that keeps them awake. It’s just the way God has made them.

If you think 1.9 hours a day is not much sleep, consider this fact about the Creator of our tall animal friends: Our heavenly Father never sleeps.

Describing God’s continual concern for us, the psalmist declares, “He who keeps you will not slumber” (Ps. 121:3). In the context of this psalm, the writer makes it clear that God’s sleepless vigilance is for our good. Verse 5 says, “The Lord is your keeper.” God keeps us, protects us, and cares for us—with no need for refreshing. Our Protector is constantly seeking our good. As one song puts it: “He never sleeps, He never slumbers. He watches me both night and day.”

Are you facing difficulties? Turn to the One who never sleeps. Each second of each day, let Him “preserve your going out and your coming in” (v.8). --Bill Crowder

The Rock of Ages stands secure,

He always will be there;

He watches over all His own

To calm their anxious care. --Keith

REFLECT ON THIS:

The One who upholds the universe will never let you down.

[APRIL 12] The Wrong Stuff

Read: John 14:1-6

"There is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved" 

--Acts 4:12

It was a simple task, but I was in over my head. One of the items on the grocery list was soy. Problem was, I didn’t know what kind of soy my wife, Sue, had in mind when she made the list. After searching the aisles and asking the advice of a worker who was stacking soup cans, I grabbed a bottle of soy sauce, placed it in the cart, and went on my way.

Only after I unloaded my bags at home did I discover that Sue didn’t want soy sauce. She wanted soy milk for our granddaughter Eliana. I was sincere in my search. I even asked for help and confidently pulled my selection off the shelf. But it didn’t do me (or Eliana) any good. I had the wrong stuff.

Sadly, some people are walking through the grocery store of life with “heaven” on their list, but they are not getting what they need. Despite their sincerity and the intended help of others, they grab something that won’t get them to heaven because they find a “different gospel” (2 Cor. 11:4).

Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me” (John 14:6). And Peter said, “There is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved” (Acts 4:12). Trust Jesus. Don’t settle for the wrong gospel. --Dave Branon

Not all roads lead to God,

As many people claim;

There's only one true way--

Christ Jesus is His name --Sper

REFLECT ON THIS:

Christ is the only door into heaven.

[APRIL 11] A Memorial

Read: 1 Cor. 11:23-30

"As often as you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death till He comes" 

--1 Corinthians 11:26

The Taj Mahal in India is a magnificent mausoleum. Built entirely of white marble, it was commissioned by the Emperor Shah Jehan in memory of his wife, who died suddenly. It took 22 years to complete. Millions of tourists visit this memorial annually in order to see this grand structure the emperor ordered to be built in memory of the woman he loved.

Millions of people also throng to Jerusalem to look at another site—a tomb that some say may have been where Jesus was buried. No matter what tomb He lay in, Jesus occupied it for only a few days. It has been empty for 2,000 years.

Jesus doesn’t need us to build a memorial to Him. Instead, He gave us the Lord’s Supper (communion) as a memorial to remember Him. On the night He was betrayed, Jesus took bread and the cup and gave thanks to His Father before offering them to His disciples (Luke 22:14-21). Each time we partake of those elements in church, we are first to examine ourselves and our relationship with God (1 Cor. 11:28). “As often as [we] eat this bread and drink this cup” we are to do so in remembrance of the One we love, till He comes (vv.25-26).

The Lord has given us an enduring memorial to remind us of what He has done for us. --C.P. Hia

I'll take the bread and cup, dear Lord,

That speak of love sublime,

And give myself afresh to Thee.

My life, my all is Thine! --Anon

REFLECT ON THIS:

The Lord's Supper -- Christ's memorial that He left for us.

[APRIL 10] Gloating at the Enemy

Read: Obadiah 1:1-14

"Do not rejoice when your enemy falls" 

--Proverbs 24:17

Obadiah is the shortest book in the Old Testament. Yet hidden away in its brief record is a vital question that affects us all: How should we respond when we see an enemy experience misfortune?

The prophet Obadiah ministered during the time that the city of Jerusalem was under fierce attack by the armies of Babylon. The neighbors of Jerusalem, the Edomites, were actually cheering on the enemy armies to destroy and kill (Ps. 137:7-9). Ironically, these hurtful jeers were spoken by blood relatives of the Jews. They were descendants of Jacob, and the Edomites were descendants of Esau.

Obadiah condemned the Edomites for gloating: “You should not have gazed on the day of your brother in the day of his captivity; nor should you have rejoiced over the children of Judah in the day of their destruction” (Obad. 1:12).

If someone has repeatedly been hurtful to us, it is easy to give in to vindictive pleasure when they experience misfortune. But Scripture admonishes us, “Do not rejoice when your enemy falls, and do not let your heart be glad when he stumbles” (Prov. 24:17). Instead, we are to maintain an attitude of compassion and forgiveness, and trust God to bring justice in His time. --Dennis Fisher

FOR FURTHER THOUGHT

How to handle people-problems (Romans 12): Be patient (v.12), bless persecutors (v.14), 

be humble (v.16), don't take revenge (v.19), defeat evil with good (v.21).

REFLECT ON THIS:

Love for God can be measured by the love we show for our worst enemy.

[APRIL 9] The Fear of Falling

Read: Psalm 46

"The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms" 

--Deuteronomy 33:27

Have you ever dreamed that you were falling out of bed or from some great height, and you awoke in fright? I remember that as a boy I would often be awakened by such a terrifying feeling.

I heard about a man who had this sensation as soon as he slipped into sleep. He was so rudely awakened by his sense of falling that he was afraid to go back to sleep. He feared he would die, and he imagined he was falling into a bottomless pit.

Then one evening as he was strolling through a cemetery, he saw this phrase engraved on a tombstone:

UNDERNEATH ARE THE EVERLASTING ARMS

These words reminded him that when believers die, they are safely carried by the Lord to their home in heaven. He recalled the assurance of the psalmist, “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me” (Ps. 23:4).

The once-fearful man realized that in life and in death— and even in sleep—the “everlasting arms” of our loving Lord are there to catch and hold us. That night he was able to sing what he was taught in childhood, “Teach me to live that I may dread the grave as little as my bed!” At last he could fall asleep without fear. --M. R. De Haan, MD

I can trust my loving Savior

When I fear the world's alarms;

There's no safer place of resting

Than His everlasting arms. --Hess

REFLECT ON THIS:

You can trust God in the dark as well as in the light.

[APRIL 8] Clean Up the Environment

Read: Ephesians 4:17-32

"Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification"

--Ephesians 4:29

What a frustrating problem pollution is! Everybody suffers with it, yet everybody contributes to it.

Pollution takes many forms, but one type is often overlooked. Charles Swindoll calls it “verbal pollution,” passed around by grumblers, complainers, and criticizers. “The poison of pessimism,” Swindoll writes, “creates an atmosphere of wholesale negativism where nothing but the bad side of everything is emphasized.”

A group of Christian friends became concerned about this form of pollution and their personal part in it. So they made a pact to avoid critical words for a whole week. They were surprised to find how little they spoke! As they continued the experiment, they actually had to relearn conversation skills.

In Ephesians 4, Paul called believers to that sort of decisive action. He said we are to “put off” the old self and its conduct that grieves the Holy Spirit (vv.22,30) and “put on” the new self that builds up others (v.24). As we rely on the help of the Spirit (Gal. 5:16), we can make those changes in our conduct, our thinking, and our speaking.

If we want to be rid of verbal pollution, we must choose to change and ask for God’s help. It’s a great way to start cleaning up our spiritual environment. --Joanie Yoder

What! Never speak one evil word,

Or rash, or idle, or unkind!

Oh how shall I, most gracious Lord,

This mark of true perfection find?

REFLECT ONE THIS:

Help stamp out pollution—clean up your speech!

[APRIL 7] Our Only Hope

Read: 1 Thess. 4:13-18

"We should live... godly in the present age, looking for the blessed hope" 
--Titus 2:12-13

An anonymous author wrote, “When I was first converted, and for some years afterward, the second coming of Christ was a thrilling idea, a blessed hope, a glorious promise, the theme of some of the most inspiring songs of the church.

“Later it became an accepted tenet of faith, a cardinal doctrine, a kind of invisible trademark of my ministry. It was the favorite arena of my theological discussions, in the pulpit and in print. Now suddenly the second coming means something more to me. Paul called it ‘the blessed hope.’ But today it appears as the only hope of the world.”

From the human standpoint, there is no solution for the struggles of the world. Leaders are naturally frustrated in trying to deal with the increasing problems in society. The only complete and permanent solution is found in the return of Christ to earth. When He comes, He will set up His kingdom. He will rule the nations in righteousness, and “the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord, as the waters cover the sea” (Hab. 2:14).

As we await our Savior’s return, let us keep on praying, working, and watching, while “looking for the blessed hope”—our only hope for this world. --Richard De Haan

And for the hope of His return,

Dear Lord, Your name we praise;

With longing hearts we watch and wait

For that great day of days! --Sherwood

REFLECT ON THIS:

As this world gets darker, the promised return of God’s Son gets brighter.

[APRIL 6] For This I Have Jesus

Read: Psalm 66:1-15

"I will never leave you nor forsake you." 

--Hebrews 13:5

In an evangelistic meeting in Ireland, the speaker was explaining what it means to abide in Christ and to trust Him completely in every trial. Concluding his message, he repeated several times, “It means that in every circumstance you can keep on saying, ‘For this I have Jesus.’ ”

The meeting was then opened for testimonies. One young woman said, “Just a few minutes ago I was handed this telegram. It reads, ‘Mother is very ill; take train home immediately.’ When I saw those words, I knew that tonight’s message was meant just for me. My heart looked up and said, ‘For this I have Jesus.’ Instantly a peace and strength flooded my soul.”

Three or four weeks later the evangelist received a letter from this woman. It read, “Thank you again for the message you gave that day. Life has become an uninterrupted psalm of victory, for I have come to realize that no matter what life brings, for this I have Jesus.”

That believer in Christ had found in her Savior the One who would be with her “through fire and through water,” and who would bring her “out to rich fulfillment” (Ps. 66:12).

If you are enduring a great trial of affliction, remember—for this you have Jesus! --Henry G. Bosch

I've found  refuge from life's care in Jesus,

I am hiding in His love divine;

He fully understands my soul's deep longing,

And He whispers softly, "Thou art Mine." --Christiansen

 

REFLECT ON THIS:

If every circumstance finds us abiding in Christ, we will find Christ abiding with us in every circumstance.

[APRIL 5] The Power of Praise

Read: Isaiah 61:1-3

"The Lord has anointed Me... to give them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning" 

--Isaiah 61:1,3

Praise is powerful! When Scottish pastor Robert Murray McCheyne was troubled with a coldness of heart toward the things of the Lord, he would sing the praises of God until he felt revived in his spirit. Those in his household were often able to tell what hour he awoke because he began the day with a psalm of praise.

One day, while he was trying to prepare his heart for preaching, he wrote in his journal: “Is it the desire of my heart to be made altogether holy?... Lord, You know all things.... I’ve felt so much deadness and grief that I cannot grieve for this deadness. Toward evening I revived. Got a calm spirit through [singing psalms] and prayer.” McCheyne had been uplifted by praising God.

Perhaps you feel as if you are mired in what John Bunyan called the “slough of despond.” Lift a song of praise to the Lord. The psalmist said, “I will sing of the mercies of the Lord forever” (89:1). When we do that, the praise will flow not only from our lips but also from our heart. The Lord delights to give “the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness” (Isa. 61:3).

Yes, “it is good to sing praises to our God”—at all times (Ps. 147:1). --Paul Van Gorder

Praise, my soul, the King of Heaven,

To His feet your tribune bring;

Ransomed, healed, restored, forgiven,

Evermore His praises sing. --Lyte

REFLECT ON THIS:

If you find yourself wearing a spirit of heaviness, try on a garment of praise.

[APRIL 4] A "Banana Slug" Lesson

Read: Micah 6:1-8

 "What does the Lord require of you but to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?"

--Micah 6:8

Sports team names have a variety of origins. they come from history (Spartans, Mountaineers), nature (Cardinals, Terrapins), and even colors (Orange, Reds). one even comes from mollusk family.

In the 1980s, the University of California at Santa Cruz was just starting to get involved in competitive sports. UCSC had a bit disdain for the overemphasis some big time schools place on athletics, so the student body sought a team name that would reflect a somewhat different approach. they decided on the Banana Slug, a yellow, slimy, slow, shell-less mollusk. It was a clever way for UCSC to give a balanced perspective on the relative of sports.

I have always loved sports, but I know that they can easily become more important than they should be. What matters most in life is what Jesus said is most vital--loving God with all of our hearts and loving our neighbors as ourselves (Matt. 22:37-39). Micah listed God's requirements this way: "do justly," "love mercy," and "walk  humbly with your God" (6:8). For believers in Jesus, it is vital that nothing else takes top priority over god's expectations for us.

What matters most to you? The Spartans? The Red Sox? Or loving God in thought, word, and action? --Bill Crowder

Lord, what matters most to Your today?

What can direct us in each thing we do?

Could it be to let nothing at all

Interfere with our deep love for You? --Branon

REFLECT ON THIS:

Beware of spending too much time on matters of too little importance.

[APRIL 3] Longing for Spring

Read: Ecclesiastes 3:1-13

"Nothing is better for them than to rejoice, and to do good in their lives."

--Ecclesiastes 3:12

It's been a long, cold winter, and I am eager for warm weather. I'm tired of seeing bare trees and lifeless brown leaves covering the ground. I long to see wildflowers poke though the dead leaves and to watch the woods turn green once more.

Yet even as I anticipate my favorite season, I hear my mother's voice saying, "Don't wish your life away."

If you're like me, you sometimes hear yourself saying, "When such and such happens, then I will... or, If only so and so would do this, then I would do that... or, I would be happy if... or, I will be satisfied when..."

In longing for some future good, we forget that every day,--regardless of the weather or our circumstances--is a gift from God to be used for His glory. 

According to author Ron Ash, "We are where we need to be and learning what we need to learn. Stay the course because the things we experience today will lead us to where He needs us to be tomorrow."

In every season, there is a reason to rejoice and an opportunity to do good. (Eccl. 3:12). The challenge for each of us every day is to find something to rejoice about and some good to do--and then to do both. --Julie Ackerman Link

Just as the winter turns to spring,

Our lives have changing seasons too;

So when a gloomy forecast comes,

Remember--God has plans for you. --Sper

REFLECT ON THIS:

Every season brings a season to rejoice.

[APRIL 2] The Rescue Business

Read: Romans 3:10-22

"There is joy in the presence if the angels of gods over one sinner who repent."

--Luke 15:10

Living in the Colorando, I climb mountain. On summer weekends, I see casual hikers who have no idea what they are doing. in sandals, shorts, and T-shirts, carrying a single container of water, they are start up a trail at mis-morning. They have no map no compass and no rain gear.

My neighbor, who volunteers for Alpine Rescue, has told me stories of tourists rescued from certain death after wandering  off a trail. Regardless of circumstances, Alpine Rescue always responds to a call for help. Not once have they lecture a hapless tourist, "Well, since you ignored the rules of the wilderness, you'll just have to bear the consequences." Their mission is rescue. They pursue every needy hiker, no matter how undeserving.

The central message of the Bible is one of rescue. Paul points out that none of us "deserve" God's mercy and none of us can save ourselves. Like a stranded hiker, all we can do is call for help. Quoting the psalmist, he says, "There is none righteous, no, not one; none who understands; there is none who seek after of God" (Rom. 3:10-11; Ps. 14:1-3).

The good news of the gospel is the spite of our state, God seeks after us and responds to every plea for help. You might say that God is in the rescue Business 

 

THINKING IT OVER

What keeps you from calling out to God for spiritual rescue? 

Your pride? Do you fear that you are too bad for God's grace? what does Romans 3:23-26 say?

REFLECT ON THIS:

The heart of repentance is turning from sin and toward God

[APRIL 1] To Speak or not to Speak

Read: Mark 14:53-65

"[Jesus] kept silent and answered nothing."

--Mark 14:61

Sometimes silence is the best response to a false charge. At other times we must speak up.

When false witnesses accused Jesus as He stood before the Sanhedrin, He "kept silent" (Mark 14:53-61). Defending Himself would have been useless. Furthermore, He was fulfilling the prophecy of Isaiah 53:7. But earlier in His ministry, Jesus rebuked the Pharises, challenging them to prove that He sinned (John 8:13-59).

A pastor resigned from his church because a few members made untrue statements about him. He thought it unchristian to defend himself, and in some instances it is. But in this case, the troublemakers needed to be confronted and their false charges refuted. He should have urged them to repent or face church discipline.

Saying nothing may allow wrongdoers to go unchallenged in their evil ways. But if God's Spirit leads us to remain silent, or if we want merely to try to salvage our wounded pride, then we should hold our tongue.

Are you being falsely accused? If you discern that it's futile to argue, or if your pride has been hurt, ask God for grace to say nothing. but if you feel concern for the wrongdoers and want to see justice done, speak up! --Herb Vander Lugt

Lord, give us wisdom to discern

When what is false must be revealed

Or if we need Your grace and strength

To close our lips and keep them sealed. --D. De Haan

REFLECT ON THIS:

Silence can be valuable; don't break it unless you can improve on it.

[MARCH 31] The Beauty of Forgiveness

Read: Luke 15:11-24

"When he was still a great way off, his father saw him and had compassion, and ran... and kissed him."

--Luke 15:20

What started out as a collection has grown into a ministry opportunity for Larry and Mary Gerbens. For the past 10 years they've been collecting artistic works based on the story of the prodigal son from Luke 15. Their collection includes a painting from Rembrandt and a number of items by other artists depicting this story.

The Gerbens wanted to share their collection, so they put it on display at a local college. Larry said, "The artists have ministered to us, and we hope their work will minister to others.

As I wandered through the displays, I was touched by the deep need of the prodigal, his honest repentance, and the beautiful forgiveness of the father portrayed in the variety of art pieces--paintings, etchings,engravings, glasswork, sketches, and silk screens.

We have all been like the son in this story, who had other plans for his life than what his father had for him. We have all run away from our heavenly Father (Rom. 3:10-12). But He welcomes us when we come to Him.

You too will see the beauty of forgiveness in your heavenly Father's face when you cry out to Him, "Father, I have sinned..." (Luke 15:18). If you're far away from Him, head home now and experience His love. --Anne Cetas

O Lord, I now admit my guilt,

And I accept Your grace;

Transform my life and help me grow

Until I see Your face. --Hess

REFLECT ON THIS:

When God forgives, He removes the sin and restores the soul.

[MARCH 30] The Kingdom of Me?

Read: 1 Peter 3:8-17

"Sanctify the Lord God in your hearts."

--1 Peter 3:15

In 1977, 15 year-old Kevin Baugh and a teenage friend decided to create their own country, just for fun. The Republic of Molossia began as they drew a map, created paper money, and made a flag. Today, Mr. Baugh continues his micro-nation the same way it began--just for fun. When Chicago Tribune reporter Colleen Matony toured his 1.3 acre kingdom in the Nevada desert, Baugh assured her he still pays US taxes, which he calls "foreign aid."

"It's always tongue-in-cheek," Baugh admits. "I'm doing this for the pleasure and enjoyment of having my own country."

Not many of us will create our own nation, but we all have a kingdom of the heart where we decide who will rule. The apostle Peter wrote: "Sanctify the Lord God in your hearts" (1 Peter 3:15). "Sanctify" means to set a part Christ as Lord or Ruler of our life.

There is something within each of of us that longs to be in control of our lives. It may be only a small corner where we assert our spiritual independence and answer to no one but ourselves.

But true freedom comes when we allow Christ to rule our hearts. --David McCasland

'Tis mine to choose if self shall die

And never rise again;

'Tis mine to yield the throne to Christ

And bid rule and reign. --Christiansen

REFLECT ON THIS:

When Christ rules in our heart, our feet will walk His ways.

[MARCH 29] Thanks, God!

Read: Psalm 105:1-5

"Oh, give thanks to the Lord!"

--Psalm 105:1

At RBC Ministries, our human resources team has developed an effective and encouraging program that centers around gratefulness.

When an employee notices something good another employee does here at the office, he or she can take a special "Thank You" card provided by human resources and write a note of appreciation. It's a good feeling to walk into your office and find one of those cards on your desk.

Isn't it great to be thanked for a job well done? Doesn't a good hearty "thank you" brighten your day? And doesn't it make your relationships a little more special--just to know that your work is not being taken for granted?

Everybody loves to be thanked. Even God. Our heavenly Father finds pleasure in our expression of thanks to Him. It's His will that we tell Him "Thank You." Give thanks in all circumstances," Paul said, "for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus" (1 Thess. 5:18 NIV). The writer of Hebrews took it a step further by saying, "Let us be thankful, and so worship God" (12:28 NIV).

Keep looking for ways to improve your relationship with God. Don't forget what may be the most basic way to worship and honor Him: Tell Him "Thanks." --Dave Branon

Then let us adore and give Him His right,

All glory and power, all wisdom and might,

All honor and blessing, with angels above,

And thanks never ceasing for infinite love. --Wesley

REFLECT ON THIS:

The worship most acceptable to God comes from a thankful heart.

[MARCH 28] Helping Love Grow

Read: 1 Corinthians 13

"[Love] does not seek its own."

--1 Corinthians 13:5

A young man told his father, "Dad, I'm going to get married."

"How do you know you're ready to get married, Ron?" asked the father. "Are you in love?"

"I sure am!" he replied.

The father then asked, "Ron, how do you know you're in love?"

"Last night as I was kissing my girlfriend goodnight, her dog bit me and I didn't feel the pain until I got home!"

Ron has got that loving feeling, but he has a lot of growing to do. Vernon Grounds, a former writer for Our Daily Bread, who has been married for more than 70 years, shares these points about how to grow in love:

Ponder God's love in Christ. Take time to reflect on how He gave His life for you. Read about Him in the Gospels, and thank Him.

Pray for the love of God. Ask Him to give you an understanding of His love and to teach you how to live that out in your relationships with your spouse and others (1 Cor.13).

Practice the love of God. Give of yourself. A newlywed told me he thinks love is practical. He said, "My responsibility is to make life easier for my spouse." The other, tougher side of love is to challenge each other to act in godly ways.

Love will grow when we ponder love, pray for love, and practice love. --Anne Cetas

This is my prayer, kind Father,

So direct me from above

That I may live a life for You

And reflect my Savior's love. --Messenger

REFLECT ON THIS:

As Christ's love grows in us, His love flows from us.