Daily Bread_January 31, 2013

Title: Are You Asking God for Things That Matter Most?

Text: 1 Kings 3:3-9

Click here to read scripture:

http://tinyurl.com/b9p9yf5

Observation:

Today I have prayer on my heart. I have a firm conviction that there is nothing that is beyond the reach of prayer. Surely there are conditions to having our prayers answered, but these conditions are not burdensome.

John 14:13-14 (HCSB)
¹³ Whatever you ask in My name, I will do it so that the Father may be glorified in the Son.
¹⁴ If you ask Me anything in My name, I will do it.

Why do we pray so little, and for such little things? The prayer of Solomon stirs my heart, and convicts me about my prayer life. How would you respond if God asked you what he asked Solomon?

1 Kings 3:5 (HCSB)
⁵ At Gibeon the LORD appeared to Solomon in a dream at night. God said, "Ask. What should I give you?"

This is how Solomon responded:

1 Kings 3:9 (HCSB)
⁹ So give Your servant an obedient heart to judge Your people and to discern between good and evil. For who is able to judge this great people of Yours?"

Are your prayers about fulfilling the purpose of God for your life? That is a prayer that God delights to answer. He will give you not only that, but so much more. Why not try God, and trust him to do for you what he did for Solomon. He got what he asked for, and so much more.

Matthew 6:33 (KJV)
³³ But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.

Ephesians 3:20-21 (KJV)
²⁰ Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us,
²¹ Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen.

Prayer:

Our Father in heaven, my dear Father, I pray that you will quicken my heart to ask you for what I need the most to fulfill my God ordained purpose. Father, I pray for the faith to ask for the best, and to trust you for the rest. In Jesus name, Amen.

--

Isaiah 50:4 (HCSB)
⁴ The Lord GOD has given Me the tongue of those who are instructed to know how to sustain the weary with a word. He awakens ⌊Me⌋ each morning; He awakens My ear to listen like those being instructed.

 

My blog: Sharing the Word of God Daily:

 http://herbcotton.blogspot.com/

Daily Bread_January 30, 2013

Title: Who Am I in God's Eyes?

Text: 1 Peter 2:9-10

1 Peter 2:9-10 (HCSB)
⁹ But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for His possession, so that you may proclaim the praises of the One who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.
¹⁰ Once you were not a people, but now you are God's people; you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.

Observation:

In this passage the Apostle Peter associates believers with Israel. The role is one that is assigned by the Sovereign Lord; his divine choice. Notice how it is similar to the role of the people of Israel.

Exodus 19:5-6 (HCSB)
⁵ Now if you will listen to Me and carefully keep My covenant, you will be My own possession out of all the peoples, although all the earth is Mine,
⁶ and you will be My kingdom of priests and My holy nation.' These are the words that you are to say to the Israelites."

Notice what Peter says about the new Israel;"you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for His possession". We don't belong to ourselves; we belong to God.

The thing that amazes me and takes my breath away is this statement, "Once you were not a people, but now you are God's people" What God has done for Christ followers is by the Sovereign God; by divine grace and mercy we are God's people on mission for God.

God chose you for a purpose. Here is the purpose: "proclaim the praises of the One who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light". How are you doing in fulfilling your purpose?

Prayer:

Our Father in heaven, my dear Father, I bow in awe of the grace and mercy of a God who loves those who were unlovely, and gave us such a lofty purpose and mission. Father, I give my life to you, and ask you to make me holy, and make me wholly Thine. Father, train my lips to speak words of life to this generation. In Jesus name, Amen.

"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."

                William Longstaff

 

--

Isaiah 50:4 (HCSB)
⁴ The Lord GOD has given Me the tongue of those who are instructed to know how to sustain the weary with a word. He awakens ⌊Me⌋ each morning; He awakens My ear to listen like those being instructed.

 

My blog: Sharing the Word of God Daily:

 http://herbcotton.blogspot.com/

Daily Bread_January 29, 2013

Title: How to Prepare for the Storms of Life?

Text: Mark 4:35-41

Click here to read scripture:

http://tinyurl.com/aky3uqh

Observation:

In the area where I live the hurricane season is June 1 to November 30. The wise have a prepared plan for surviving the storms. Jesus told his disciples this about the storms of life. He said you should expect them. However, do not fear, and the reason for not fearing.

John 16:33 (HCSB)
³³ I have told you these things so that in Me you may have peace. You will have suffering in this world. Be courageous! I have conquered the world."

In our selected text today we read of an account where the disciples found themselves in the midst of a terrible storm. Notice from the text that they were doing the right thing, and that they were following the right person. In life storms will come; that is just the way life is in this world.

Mark 4:37 (HCSB)
³⁷ A fierce windstorm arose, and the waves were breaking over the boat, so that the boat was already being swamped.

The key to overcoming the storms of life is to have faith in God. When you are doing the will of God, and following the ways of God don't let the storms of life get you off track. Jesus knows what life looks like on the other side of the storm. This is what he said to his disciples before getting in the boat.

Mark 4:35 (HCSB)
³⁵ On that day, when evening had come, He told them, "Let's cross over to the other side [of the sea]."

No matter what storms you face in life; Jesus will see you through it safely to the other side. As for me and my house, we will trust in the Lord. I am safe in the presence of God, and kept by the power of God. In God alone we can find peace, safety, and security. Jesus is a rock for the weary to stand upon, and a shelter in the time of the storms of life. Jesus never fails.

Mark 4:40 (HCSB)
⁴⁰ Then He said to them, "Why are you fearful? Do you still have no faith?"

Prayer:

Our Father in heaven, my dear Father, I am so thankful that you are a God who goes the distance with your people. Father, I am so glad that I can trust in you to get me safely to the other side of the storms of life. In Jesus name, Amen.

--

Isaiah 50:4 (HCSB)
⁴ The Lord GOD has given Me the tongue of those who are instructed to know how to sustain the weary with a word. He awakens ⌊Me⌋ each morning; He awakens My ear to listen like those being instructed.

 

My blog: Sharing the Word of God Daily:

 http://herbcotton.blogspot.com/

Daily Bread_January 28, 2013

Title: Where Do You Live?

Text: Isaiah 30:15-18

Click here to read scripture:

http://tinyurl.com/beefqed

Observation:

The topic that I write about today is one that seems to be on the mind of people I know. I have noticed it in several places the past few days. It got my attention; so today I make it a part of my prayer in search of the wisdom of God from his word.

Is it possible to have peace in the world in which we live? Can we hope for a time when all of our problems will vanish, and the world will be a place without drama? I don't think so.

However, there is a place where we can find peace; it is not in ideal circumstances or conditions, but in a person. We worry about things that we don't have to. Our Father wants us to take everything to him in prayer. My daughter's Bible Study Class talked about this topic yesterday. Her great grandmother used to say, "If you are going to worry don't pray. If you are going to pray, don't worry".

Know that In God alone we find peace, rest, and strength for living out our purpose for which we were born. Why live under the circumstances when you can live underneath the everlasting arms of the Lord?

Deuteronomy 33:27 (HCSB)
²⁷ The God of old is [your] dwelling place, and underneath are the everlasting arms. He drives out the enemy before you and commands, "Destroy!"

Prayer:

Our Father in heaven, my dear Father, I am so glad that there is a place and person in whom we can find rest for our weary souls. Father God, thank you for being a place of refuge, and a shelter from the storms of life. Lord, I choose to wait on Thee. In Jesus name, Amen.

--

Isaiah 50:4 (HCSB)
⁴ The Lord GOD has given Me the tongue of those who are instructed to know how to sustain the weary with a word. He awakens ⌊Me⌋ each morning; He awakens My ear to listen like those being instructed.

 

My blog: Sharing the Word of God Daily:

 http://herbcotton.blogspot.com/

Daily Bread_January 25, 2013

Title: Are You One of God's Misbehaving Children?

Text: Galatians 5:13-15

Click here to read scripture:

http://tinyurl.com/albd5rk

Observation:

I was talking to a friend a few days ago. During the course of the conversation we talked about a topic I discussed on Monday.

During our conversation the scripture that is our text for today popped up in my memory bank. My friend and I shared a common concern. This is the problem that causes us concern; the lack of love for one another in the Body of Christ, and the way we talk to and about one another. Think about this warning from God's word.

Galatians 5:15 (AMP)
¹⁵ But if you bite and devour one another [in partisan strife], be careful that you [and your whole fellowship] are not consumed by one another.

However, there is one thing that gives me hope; the prayer of Jesus for believers of every age. I know that the Father will answer the prayer of his only begotten son.

John 17:20-21 (HCSB)
²⁰ I pray not only for these, but also for those who believe in Me through their message.
²¹ May they all be one, as You, Father, are in Me and I am in You. May they also be one in Us, so the world may believe You sent Me.

Prayer:

 Father God, my dear Father, I am so grateful for your all encompassing love and care for your believing people. Father, help us by your almighty power to love one another, and stop the partisan strife. Father, I ask that you save us from consuming one another. In Jesus name, Amen.

--

Isaiah 50:4 (HCSB)
⁴ The Lord GOD has given Me the tongue of those who are instructed to know how to sustain the weary with a word. He awakens ⌊Me⌋ each morning; He awakens My ear to listen like those being instructed.

 

My blog: Sharing the Word of God Daily:

 http://herbcotton.blogspot.com/

Daily Bread_January 24, 2013

Title: The Presence of God in the Life of His People

Text: Psalm 139:7-12

Click here to read scripture:

http://tinyurl.com/ar8yfpl

Observation:

The topic and text for today assures God's people of his love and care for each person who belongs to him.

How does this knowledge affect the way you live your life? How wonderful it is to know that every moment of your life you can count of the presence of God with you. There is never a time that we have to walk alone.

Hebrews 13:5 (HCSB)
⁵ Your life should be free from the love of money. Be satisfied with what you have, for He Himself has said, I will never leave you or forsake you.

There is never a night so dark that our heavenly Father cannot see his beloved people. Oh, the blessings of being a child of God.

Psalm 139:11-12 (HCSB)
¹¹ If I say, "Surely the darkness will hide me, and the light around me will be night"—
¹² even the darkness is not dark to You. The night shines like the day; darkness and light are alike to You.

Prayer:

Our Father in heaven, my dear Father, I am so thankful that you know my name; you know what I do, and you know where I go. Father, I thank you that there is never a time when you are unaware of my circumstances or condition.

Psalm 139:5 (HCSB)
⁵ You have encircled me; You have placed Your hand on me.

Father God, I thank you for being with me everywhere I go and that you never leave me or forsake me. My heart sings, "O Lord my God, how great Thou art". In Jesus name, Amen.

--

Isaiah 50:4 (HCSB)
⁴ The Lord GOD has given Me the tongue of those who are instructed to know how to sustain the weary with a word. He awakens ⌊Me⌋ each morning; He awakens My ear to listen like those being instructed.

 

My blog: Sharing the Word of God Daily:

 http://herbcotton.blogspot.com/

Daily Bread_January 23, 2013

Title: Whom Do You Trust?

Text: Psalm 31:19-20; Proverbs 3:5

Click here to read scripture:

http://tinyurl.com/b828xkq

Observation:

David is a wonderful example of the outcome of putting your faith in God. David was not ashamed to shout it from the mountaintop that he believed in and relied upon God.

Psalm 31:1-2 (HCSB)
¹ LORD, I seek refuge in You; let me never be disgraced. Save me by Your righteousness.
² Listen closely to me; rescue me quickly. Be a rock of refuge for me, a mountain fortress to save me.

It paid for David and will pay for you to put your trust in the Lord. I find a lot of encouragement and courage in these words.

Psalm 31:23-24 (HCSB)
²³ Love the LORD, all His faithful ones. The LORD protects the loyal, but fully repays the arrogant.
²⁴ Be strong and courageous, all you who put your hope in the LORD.

The lyrics of this song are on my heart this morning: "How Long Has It Been Since You Talked with the Lord?" It's time to have a talk with Jesus, and tell him my heart's hidden secrets.

Prayer:

Our Father in heaven, my dear Father, I am so thankful that you are a God in whom I can trust with my whole heart. Father God, I am so blessed that when I walk with you that I am never alone. Father, I thank you for your abiding presence, and your almighty power. In Jesus name, Amen.

--

Isaiah 50:4 (HCSB)
⁴ The Lord GOD has given Me the tongue of those who are instructed to know how to sustain the weary with a word. He awakens ⌊Me⌋ each morning; He awakens My ear to listen like those being instructed.

 

My blog: Sharing the Word of God Daily:

 http://herbcotton.blogspot.com/

Daily Bread_January 22, 2013

Title: Have You Discovered the Everlasting Arms of the Savior?

Text: Genesis 15:1; Numbers 6:26

Click here to read scripture:
http://tinyurl.com/aujbc6j

Observation:

In the book of beginnings we discover that the people of God have always sought a place of refuge, and that place has been in the presence of the Lord.

What a blessing it is to know that the Sovereign God of the universe; the God of creation, and the God of redemption cares about his people.

When life throws us a bunch of lemons; we can find that place of comfort and security where the Lord prepares for us in the presence of our foes a pitcher of lemonade out of those lemons. From the beginning, God has always proven himself to be gracious and good to his people.

I take comfort in the words he speaks to Abraham, "Fear not". In the midst of your darkest hour, in the stillness of your darkest night, listen for the voice of God and you will hear him say to you, "Fear not".

The fruit of trusting in the Lord always yields an overflow of blessings; the Lord delights in opening the windows of heaven, and showering his people with blessings from on high.

James 1:17 (NLT)
¹⁷ Whatever is good and perfect comes down to us from God our Father, who created all the lights in the heavens. He never changes or casts a shifting shadow.

Prayer:

Our Father in heaven, my dear Father, I am so grateful that in this world of turmoil and strife that there is a place where we can find peace, safety, and blessings overflowing with love. Father, I thank you for all of my blessings every day. In Jesus name, Amen.

--

Isaiah 50:4 (HCSB)
⁴ The Lord GOD has given Me the tongue of those who are instructed to know how to sustain the weary with a word. He awakens ⌊Me⌋ each morning; He awakens My ear to listen like those being instructed.

 

My blog: Sharing the Word of God Daily:

 http://herbcotton.blogspot.com/

Daily Bread_January 21, 2013

Title: Are You a Designer or a Destroyer?

Text: Ephesians 4:25-32

Click here to read scripture:
http://tinyurl.com/atuwuhv

Observation:

What do others see when they observe our speech and our actions? Do they see the work of the designer or the destroyer?

In our focal passage for today the Apostle Paul gives some examples of how believers can build up the Body of Christ; how they can add value to others.

Three of these examples found a home in my heart.

1.     Truth

Ephesians 4:25 (HCSB)
²⁵ Since you put away lying, Speak the truth, each one to his neighbor, because we are members of one another.

2.     Tongue

Ephesians 4:29 (HCSB)
²⁹ No foul language is to come from your mouth, but only what is good for building up someone in need, so that it gives grace to those who hear.

3.     Tenderhearted

Ephesians 4:32 (HCSB)
³² And be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving one another, just as God also forgave you in Christ.

Prayer:

Our Father in heaven, my dear Father, I acknowledge that I am a work in progress; I am not yet what I ought to be, but thank God I am not what I used to be.

Father the longer I live the more I realize how helpless I am without your wisdom and your power working in me. Father, keep me forever under the umbrella of your tender loving care. In Jesus name, Amen.

--

Isaiah 50:4 (HCSB)
⁴ The Lord GOD has given Me the tongue of those who are instructed to know how to sustain the weary with a word. He awakens ⌊Me⌋ each morning; He awakens My ear to listen like those being instructed.

 

My blog: Sharing the Word of God Daily:

 http://herbcotton.blogspot.com/

Daily Bread_January 18, 2013

Title: We Have a Helper When We Pray

Text: John 16:23-33

Click here to read scripture:
http://tinyurl.com/bkmk4u8

Observation:

When I look around and listen to what people are saying and writing I become acutely aware that there are many difficult problems that people are dealing with. However, there is some good news in spite of all of the bad news reports.

The last verse in our focal passage gives me hope; yes, troubles will come in the life of God's people. But, we can be of good cheer. We can do this because of this promise by Jesus.

John 16:33 (KJV)
³³ These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.

We should expect trouble. However, we should also take comfort in the knowledge of what we know about the promises of God. Troubles may last for a season, but joy comes in the morning. We can find an oasis of peace in the midst of our storm tossed lives.

Prayer is the key that opens the door to our deliverance. With the help of the word of God, and the Spirit of God, we can have an effective prayer life. To pray aright is to pray to the Father, through the Son, and with the aid and assistance of the Holy Spirit. O, how we need to return to praying the word, and praying in the Spirit.

Romans 8:26-27 (HCSB)
²⁶ In the same way the Spirit also joins to help in our weakness, because we do not know what to pray for as we should, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with unspoken groanings.
²⁷ And He who searches the hearts knows the Spirit's mind-set, because He intercedes for the saints according to the will of God.

Prayer:

Our Father in heaven, my dear Father, I am so grateful that you delight to answer the prayers of your people. Father, I am so thankful for the wisdom of the word, and the power of the Holy Spirit in aiding and assisting your people's prayer life.

Father God, stir the hearts of your people until we cannot resist the urge to bow the knee, and bring our troubles and our needs to you in prayer. Father, exchange our troubled hearts for a cheerful heart. In Jesus name, Amen.

--

Isaiah 50:4 (HCSB)
⁴ The Lord GOD has given Me the tongue of those who are instructed to know how to sustain the weary with a word. He awakens ⌊Me⌋ each morning; He awakens My ear to listen like those being instructed.

 

My blog: Sharing the Word of God Daily:

 http://herbcotton.blogspot.com/

Daily Bread_January 17, 2013

Title: A Prayer of Thanksgiving for Answered Prayer

Text: Psalm 116

Click here to read scripture:
http://tinyurl.com/ae9uj4t

Observation:

The Psalmist had an amazing answer to prayer. It is a profound thing to ponder that God hears and answers prayer.

The Psalmist had so much to be grateful to the Lord for. By his own testimony, he was near death, but the Lord delivered him from death.

Psalm 116:3 (KJV)
³ The sorrows of death compassed me, and the pains of hell gat hold upon me: I found trouble and sorrow.

Psalm 116:8-9 (KJV)
⁸ For thou hast delivered my soul from death, mine eyes from tears, and my feet from falling.
⁹ I will walk before the LORD in the land of the living.

The focus of today's meditation is this. When God answers our prayers what should be our response to him?

Many seek a blessing from the Lord, but how many people take the time to bless the Lord? I admire and aspire to be like the thoughts expressed in these verses.

Psalm 115:1 (KJV)
¹ Not unto us, O LORD, not unto us, but unto thy name give glory, for thy mercy, and for thy truth's sake.

Psalm 115:18 (KJV)
¹⁸ But we will bless the LORD from this time forth and for evermore. Praise the LORD.

The Psalmist in our featured Psalm had this attitude; he had a heart that was eager to give praise and thanksgiving to the Lord for his blessing. Are you willing to bless the Lord in the presence of all of his people?

Psalm 116:17-19 (KJV)
¹⁷ I will offer to thee the sacrifice of thanksgiving, and will call upon the name of the LORD.
¹⁸ I will pay my vows unto the LORD now in the presence of all his people,
¹⁹ In the courts of the LORD'S house, in the midst of thee, O Jerusalem. Praise ye the LORD.

Prayer:

Our Father in heaven, my dear Father, I delight to bless the name of the Lord in private and in public worship.

Father, I admit that I need the help of the Lord in my life. Father, I am not sufficient within myself; I need the wisdom and power of God. Father, I need your grace and mercy. Father, hear my plea like you heard the Psalmist. Praise the Lord! In Jesus name, Amen.

--

Isaiah 50:4 (HCSB)
⁴ The Lord GOD has given Me the tongue of those who are instructed to know how to sustain the weary with a word. He awakens ⌊Me⌋ each morning; He awakens My ear to listen like those being instructed.

 

My blog: Sharing the Word of God Daily:

 http://herbcotton.blogspot.com/

Daily Bread_January 16, 2013

Title: Praying God Size Prayers Requires Faith

Text: Mark 11:22-25

Click here to read scripture:
http://tinyurl.com/ah7dcny

Observation:

The message of prayer is still burning in my heart; it began on Saturday as I sat at the home going service of a family friend's father. Several speakers mentioned the fervent and effective prayer life of the man of God who was a pastor in New Orleans for over 60 years. He was a man of faith in a great God, and he believed that nothing was impossible for his God.

This is the message that is in our text. The meaning of this verse is things that seem to be impossible are possible when God is in it.

Mark 11:22-23 (HCSB)
²² Jesus replied to them, "Have faith in God.
²³ I assure you: If anyone says to this mountain, 'Be lifted up and thrown into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that what he says will happen, it will be done for him.

There is nothing in the sovereign will of God that he cannot do, and that he will not do when his people ask; when they have faith in God. However, we must have the perspective that Jesus had. It's about God's will, and not our will.

Mark 14:36 (HCSB)
³⁶ And He said, "Abba, Father! All things are possible for You. Take this cup away from Me. Nevertheless, not what I will, but what You will."

Prayer:

Our Father in heaven, my dear Father, I praise and thank you for the privilege of prayer. Father, I thank you for giving us the gift of faith that opens the windows of heaven for your people.

Father God, I pray that you will give us a heart that will be faithful in prayer, and devoted to prayer. Father, humble us so that we will come to the end of self-help, and ask you to meet our needs. Father, we have some mountains that only you can move. Lord, help us. In Jesus name, Amen.

Jeremiah 33:3 (KJV)
³ Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and shew thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not.

--

Isaiah 50:4 (HCSB)
⁴ The Lord GOD has given Me the tongue of those who are instructed to know how to sustain the weary with a word. He awakens ⌊Me⌋ each morning; He awakens My ear to listen like those being instructed.

 

My blog: Sharing the Word of God Daily:

 http://herbcotton.blogspot.com/

Daily Bread_January 15, 2013

Title: What Happens When We Pray is Amazing

Text: Luke 18:1-8

Click here to read scripture:
http://tinyurl.com/bkonlyf

Observation:

Today I have prayer on my heart. I can think of nothing more needful in the church today then the need for a return to making prayer a priority. The size of our problems begs for God sized prayers. The problems we face require the wisdom and the power of God.

Why attempt to solve our deep societal problems with the tools of the world when we can through prayer gain access to the creator of the world and everything that is within it. Why settle for tried and failed solutions? We can call upon a God who can do anything but fail. Think about this.

Luke 18:1 (HCSB)
¹ He then told them a parable on the need for them to pray always and not become discouraged:

Luke 18:7 (HCSB)
⁷ Will not God grant justice to His elect who cry out to Him day and night? Will He delay [to help] them?

I think I know the answer to the above question. I know that God hears and answers the prayers of his believing people.

Matthew 7:7 (HCSB)
⁷ "Keep asking, and it will be given to you. Keep searching, and you will find. Keep knocking, and the door will be opened to you.

We got to stay in close communion with the Father. That worked out alright for Jesus, and it will work out alright for you.

Luke 3:21-22 (HCSB)
²¹ When all the people were baptized, Jesus also was baptized. As He was praying, heaven opened,
²² and the Holy Spirit descended on Him in a physical appearance like a dove. And a voice came from heaven: You are My beloved Son. I take delight in You!

Prayer:

Our Father in heaven, my dear Father, I realize that we forfeit so many blessings by failing to pray. Father, I pray that my first option will be prayer. Father, I pray that you would increase in me the desire to persist in prayer; that I will PUSH, pray until something happens.

Father, when you look down from heaven, I pray that you will take delight in me. God, you are so good, and greatly to be praised. In Jesus name, Amen.

--

Isaiah 50:4 (HCSB)
⁴ The Lord GOD has given Me the tongue of those who are instructed to know how to sustain the weary with a word. He awakens ⌊Me⌋ each morning; He awakens My ear to listen like those being instructed.

 

My blog: Sharing the Word of God Daily:

 http://herbcotton.blogspot.com/

Daily Bread_January 14, 2013

Title: How Much Do You Want to Know the God of the Bible?

Text: Philippians 3:7-11

Click here to read scripture:
http://tinyurl.com/cwtftak

Observation:

In our text today the Apostle Paul wanted to know Christ in the most intimate way. He not only wanted the blessings of God's promises, but he wanted to know the power of God in his life. He wanted all of God. This was Paul's supreme goal.

Philippians 3:10 (HCSB)
¹⁰ [My goal] is to know Him and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death,

The way we get to know God is through his word; the saints of the ages have a great story to tell about their journey, and we can be encouraged by their story.

Romans 15:4 (HCSB)
⁴ For whatever was written in the past was written for our instruction, so that we may have hope through endurance and through the encouragement from the Scriptures.

Here is one of the stories that encourage me.

Exodus 14:13 (HCSB)
¹³ But Moses said to the people, "Don't be afraid. Stand firm and see the LORD's salvation He will provide for you today; for the Egyptians you see today, you will never see again.

What God told his people then is good for us today; it's always profitable to, "don't be afraid", and to, "Stand firm and wait on God". What the saints of old found to be true about God, I have found to be true about him. God is love; he cares and provides for his beloved children.

Prayer:

Father God, my dear Father, you alone are God, and worthy to be praised. Father, strengthen my will and increase my faith so that I may obey your precepts, know your power, and receive your promises. In Jesus name, Amen.

--

Isaiah 50:4 (HCSB)
⁴ The Lord GOD has given Me the tongue of those who are instructed to know how to sustain the weary with a word. He awakens ⌊Me⌋ each morning; He awakens My ear to listen like those being instructed.

 

My blog: Sharing the Word of God Daily:

 http://herbcotton.blogspot.com/

Daily Bread_January 11, 2013

Title: How Are You Doing in Guarding Your Tongue?

Text: James 3:13-18

Click here to read scripture:

http://tinyurl.com/aef74p8

Observation:

James gives us help to guide us in guarding our tongue. It is our responsibility and privilege as believers to be able to get our tongue under control. It is not mission impossible. The key is to be in right relationship with God, and have our life aligned with the word.

Hebrews 4:12 (HCSB)
¹² For the word of God is living and effective and sharper than any double-edged sword, penetrating as far as the separation of soul and spirit, joints and marrow. It is able to judge the ideas and thoughts of the heart.

The key is having our heart and head aligned. It involves our conduct and our character. First, let's consider the matter of conduct.

James 3:13 (HCSB)
¹³ Who is wise and has understanding among you? He should show his works by good conduct with wisdom's gentleness.

Our conduct matters; hence, we need to guard our tongue. God will give us the power to use our words to glorify God, and edify others. Our part is to get God's word in us, and God will work it out through us in our actions, behavior, and conduct. It's as simple as ABC when we surrender our lives to the will and way of God. It's not easy, but it is possible. We must become men and women of the word.

Second, let's consider the matter of character. Someone has said that character is reveled by what we do when no one is looking.

James 3:17-18 (HCSB)
¹⁷ But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peace-loving, gentle, compliant, full of mercy and good fruits, without favoritism and hypocrisy.
¹⁸ And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who cultivate peace.

God will give us the wisdom that we need; wisdom that results in edifying words from our tongue. If you ask for wisdom, God will give it to you.

James 1:5 (HCSB)
⁵ Now if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives to all generously and without criticizing, and it will be given to him.

Prayer:

Our Father in heaven, my dear Father, I pray that you will grant each of your children the gift of Godly wisdom that will enable us to guard our tongue. Father, may the fruit of our lips produce words that build up and edify others. In Jesus name, Amen.

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Isaiah 50:4 (HCSB)
⁴ The Lord GOD has given Me the tongue of those who are instructed to know how to sustain the weary with a word. He awakens ⌊Me⌋ each morning; He awakens My ear to listen like those being instructed.

 

My blog: Sharing the Word of God Daily:

 http://herbcotton.blogspot.com/

Daily Bread_January 10, 2013

Title: The Greatest Comforter - - The Good Shepherd

Text: Psalm 23:1-6

Click here to read scripture:  http://tinyurl.com/bay2utw

Observation:

The text today should give us a great amount of comfort no matter what we are going through. David was a shepherd and he knew what it was to go through the valley of despondency and death.

David learned, by personal experience, that God will be with you in times of distress. David knew what a good shepherd looked like, and he found that The Lord is a Good Shepherd.

When you are going through a rough time or rough water, you can count on the presence and power of the Lord.

Isaiah 43:2 (HCSB)
² I will be with you when you pass through the waters, and [when you pass] through the rivers, they will not overwhelm you. You will not be scorched when you walk through the fire, and the flame will not burn you.

When in a storm ask this question, "Lord, What is there to learn about you?" Even in the midst of the storms of life, we can learn something new about God. Look at the lesson that the disciples learned from being in a storm.

Mark 4:41 (HCSB)
⁴¹ And they were terrified and asked one another, "Who then is this? Even the wind and the sea obey Him!"

Prayer:

Our Father in heaven, my dear Father, I am so grateful that you are my shepherd.  Father, I trust in you to provide all of my needs; help me to obey you like the wind and the sea obey you. In Jesus name, Amen.

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Isaiah 50:4 (HCSB)
⁴ The Lord GOD has given Me the tongue of those who are instructed to know how to sustain the weary with a word. He awakens ⌊Me⌋ each morning; He awakens My ear to listen like those being instructed.

 

My blog: Sharing the Word of God Daily:

 http://herbcotton.blogspot.com/

Daily Bread_January 9, 2013

Title: You Can Always Talk to Jesus about Your Issues

Text: Mark 5:25-34

Click here to read scripture:  http://tinyurl.com/b274pao

Observation:

You may feel that you are not walking close enough to God to gain his ear. Perhaps you should reconsider after reading the account of the woman mentioned in our reading today.

The woman, feeble as her faith may have been, took her 12 year issue to Jesus, and found in him the help that she had searched so desperately for from many physicians. Up to this time, no one could help her, no one could heal her.

Here is what each of us can take away from this woman's story. The quantity of faith does not matter; the thing that matters is the object of our faith. We can take our issues; small or big, to the Lord in prayer. He is able to help us, and he is willing to help us. You can talk to Jesus; he is waiting for you to ask him for what you need.

1 Peter 5:7 (HCSB)
⁷ casting all your care on Him, because He cares about you.

Prayer:

Our Father in heaven, my dear Father, I am so grateful for the open door that Jesus has to receive the requests of his believing daughters and sons. Father, I may not be able to reach up and touch his hand, but give me enough faith to bow down and touch his garment. In Jesus name, Amen.

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Isaiah 50:4 (HCSB)
⁴ The Lord GOD has given Me the tongue of those who are instructed to know how to sustain the weary with a word. He awakens ⌊Me⌋ each morning; He awakens My ear to listen like those being instructed.

 

My blog: Sharing the Word of God Daily:

 http://herbcotton.blogspot.com/

Daily Bread_January 8, 2013

Title: Living for God is Not Without Difficulties

Text: 1 Samuel 30 (Click on link below to read scripture)

http://tinyurl.com/a39aava

Observation:

I heard a sermon on this text recently, and the message is still stirring my soul. The timing was so amazing; it was a blessing in my life.

David and his followers were in Ziklag because David was on the run because King Saul wanted to kill him. God had anointed David to be the future king in place of Saul. However, David did not launch an effort to overthrow Saul. He was going about his normal business. Even when you are doing the right thing, trouble will find you.

The first six verses of this chapter in 1 Samuel 30 describes the hard place that David was in. His loyal followers were unhappy with him. David knew who to go to for help.

1 Samuel 30:6 (HCSB)
⁶ David was in a difficult position because the troops talked about stoning him, for they were all very bitter over [the loss of] their sons and daughters. But David found strength in the LORD his God.

Yes, David had great problems. However, note that David was not without hope and help; the bible says, "But David found strength in the LORD his God". It is amazing what comes after "but" when God is in it.

You can find the strength in the Lord that David found if you trust in the Lord with your whole heart. The mountains are never too high or the valleys too low for God to strengthen you. God will do for you what he did for David.

1 Samuel 30:18-19 (HCSB)
¹⁸ David recovered everything the Amalekites had taken; he also rescued his two wives.
¹⁹ Nothing [of theirs] was missing from the youngest to the oldest, including the sons and daughters, of all the plunder the Amalekites had taken. David got everything back.

Prayer:

Father God, I am so thankful that the devil doesn't get the final word. Father, I thank you that I serve a God who is able to restore what the devil has stolen; I thank you that you are a God who gives hope, help, and strength to your people. In Jesus name, Amen.

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Isaiah 50:4 (HCSB)
⁴ The Lord GOD has given Me the tongue of those who are instructed to know how to sustain the weary with a word. He awakens ⌊Me⌋ each morning; He awakens My ear to listen like those being instructed.

 

My blog: Sharing the Word of God Daily:

 http://herbcotton.blogspot.com/

Daily Bread_January 7, 2013

Text: Luke 4:1-13

Title: Victory through the Word

Observation:

We don't know what circumstances we will face in this New Year. However, we do know two things if we are a child of God. We know that Satan is our enemy, and that God is our friend. Who do you trust to look out for your best interest?

We can't avoid the attacks of Satan; he tempted Jesus, and he will tempt us. However, we have a friend who sits on high, but he looks low. God knows our name, and he remembers that he made us out of dirt. Do you know what to say when the devil speaks to you?

God has given us an indispensible tool that we should use daily to overcome the enemy of our soul. I am speaking of the word of God. In this book God reveals the playbook of Satan. Read our text today and see how Jesus used the word to overcome Satan. It will help you to know how to respond to the devil when he speaks to you.

There is nothing that you will ever need in this life that Satan can give you. The reason is that everything belongs to God, and he will give you everything that you need. Never forget, that God is your provider, and what you already have if you are his child.

1 Corinthians 3:21-23 (HCSB)
²¹ So no one should boast in human [leaders], for everything is yours—
²² whether Paul or Apollos or Cephas or the world or life or death or things present or things to come—everything is yours,
²³ and you belong to Christ, and Christ belongs to God.

When Satan knocks at your door peddling his lies, remember what you have read in the word, and been taught by the Spirit of God.

Luke 4:8 (HCSB)
⁸ And Jesus answered him, "It is written: Worship the Lord your God, and serve Him only."

Tell Satan, "It is written". In order to do that, you need to read the word of God for yourself. Today I resume my search of reading the bible; I will be as one beggar telling another beggar where to find bread.

Prayer:

Our Father in heaven, my dear Father, I pray that you would stir within me a hunger and thirst for your word daily. Father, I need the wisdom and the strength that comes from the partaking of the daily bread of God's word.  Father, help me to stay read up, and fed up. In Jesus name, Amen.

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Isaiah 50:4 (HCSB)
⁴ The Lord GOD has given Me the tongue of those who are instructed to know how to sustain the weary with a word. He awakens ⌊Me⌋ each morning; He awakens My ear to listen like those being instructed.

 

My blog: Sharing the Word of God Daily:

 http://herbcotton.blogspot.com/