Daily Dose 2-7-11

Proverbs 8:10-11 Choose my instruction instead of silver, knowledge rather than choice gold, for wisdom is more precious than rubies, and nothing you desire can compare with her.

This section of Proverbs is called “Wisdom’s Call.” We read in scripture where God promises wisdom to those who ask. This is a beautiful picture of wisdom pursuing us. The image is almost like wisdom saying, “Pick me!” There are many requests we make of God to rectify situations or improve circumstances. Often things we are requesting may have already been taken care of it we had approached them with Godly wisdom in the first place. Try a new prayer request. Instead of asking God to intervene in a situation, ask Him to supply you with His wisdom for that purpose. In those moments when you know what to do, your faith will be increased and you can share the Glory of God in praising Him to others.

All Wise Father, So often I want You to fix things when You want to strengthen my faith by giving me Your wisdom to handle my circumstances. Give me Your wisdom to prevent future challenges and fix current situations. Reveal to me – and make it very clear through Your Word – to discern between Your wisdom and being wise in my own eyes. Amen

Daily Dose 2-5-11

Psalm 29:11 The LORD gives strength to his people; the LORD blesses his people with peace.

Peace seems to be an elusive commodity in our society. We are focused on getting more, doing more, and gaining more success. All this focus leads us to continually want more. There is certainly nothing wrong with setting goals and working hard to achieve them. The problem comes when we leave the LORD out of the process. We tend to either prioritize the work or obsession above the LORD; or we forget He is the One to be praised in the victories. Those who are not workaholics may think this does not apply, but anything or anyone placed in a higher priority than the LORD in our lives will leave us feeling empty and void of God’s peace – the peace that passes all understanding. What do you place above the LORD? Work? Family? Friends? Relationships – or the lack of them? Entertainment? Know that true peace comes from an intimate relationship with God and placing that above everything else. Be one of “God’s people” and receive the blessing of His peace.

LORD of Peace, Please help me stay focused on You in this distracting world. May I be so intent on gaining more of You that I have the peace to accomplish the work that You have for me to do. Amen

Daily Dose 2-4-11

Psalm 28:6-7 Praise be to the LORD, for he has heard my cry for mercy. The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise him.

What is your heart song? With David, his heart was always pursuing God. His heart was broken when he sinned, overjoyed in praise with victory and comforted in fear. Athletes train to get their hearts in condition to maximize each work out to the fullest and run their races with endurance. How are you training your heart for life? If David were here to do a seminar on how to capture the heart of God, his first lesson would more than likely be -PRAISE! Tune your heart to develop your own personal composition to God…no matter what your circumstances may be.

Father, I am so humbled to think of You desiring my pursuit of Your heart. I praise You for hearing my cries for mercy and Your constant and unconditional love. May I tune my heart daily to praise You – my strength and my salvation. Amen

Daily Dose 2-2-11

Psalm 27:1 The LORD is my light and my salvation— whom shall I fear? 
The LORD is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid?

Sometimes life can be a little scary. We may not be hiding in caves from an angry king trying to kill us like David was, but we still experience fear. For some it may be financial fears in this tough economy. Others may have health issues that threaten to end or diminish life. There are others still that are plagued by the fear of loneliness when relationships have ended or changed. Whatever fear may be trying to grip you, know the heavenly God of the universe is keenly aware. He is your source of light on dark days. His salvation brings hope where there is despair. His strength and power is holding you up when you may feel like you can’t go on. Stand up against fear and walk on in faith with the confidence God intends for you to have as His child!

My Stronghold, When fear and anxiety begins to creep in my life, help me stand firm. Keep me focused on you and in Your Word so I may always have Your light when darkness looms. Amen

Daily Dose 2-1-11

Exodus 13:19-20 Then the angel of God, who had been traveling in front of Israel’s army, withdrew and went behind them. The pillar of cloud also moved from in front and stood behind them, coming between the armies of Egypt and Israel.

Sometimes, we see the cloud of God’s protection clearly. Our faith is strong and we look forward knowing God will guide us through difficult challenges. Other times, we are confused. We feel as though we are following what God told us to do; yet we still seem to be wandering in the desert. We may wonder if God has left us; question why He is no longer guiding. It’s at that point that we need to stand firm and get ready to move! At times, God moves from leader – because He’s already told us what to do – to protector, guarding our backs as enemies or naysayers nip at our heels – or the temptations are great to go back to the bondage of sin. What mission does God have you on for Him? What Red Sea does He want you to cross? Move on…He’s got your back!

Protective Father, Thank You for the many times I have seen Your guidance and protection. Help me to use past experiences and examples in scripture to KNOW that You’re still guiding and protecting through challenges – especially when the mission is for You. Give me courage to walk through! Amen

Daily Dose 1-31-11

Exodus 13:14 “In days to come, when your son asks you, ‘What does this mean?’ say to him, ‘With a mighty hand the LORD brought us out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery…”

We are no longer burdened with the law keeping of feasts and animal sacrifices. However, with that freedom, we may have lost the purpose behind them. Whenever God established a feast, its purposes were two-fold. First and foremost it is an act of praise and thanksgiving to God for His provision. Secondly, it is a way to pass our faith in God through the generations. The stories of God’s faithfulness are vital in the lineage of a family. So many are focused on genealogy right now and tracing family roots. If families operated as God intended, the research would be easy. The stories would be handed down generation to generation. More importantly than who was born to which branch of the family when, descendants would recount how the LORD God Almighty provided, sustained and strengthened the family tree. What stories are you sharing now for generations to come to follow the trail of God’s faithfulness?

Father of All, May I never forget how Your Hand of protection and provision has been upon me and my family. May I always recount Your faithfulness in praise and as a tool for other generations to know Your love and power is real. Amen

Daily Dose 1-30-11

Psalm 25:14-15 The LORD confides in those who fear him; he makes his covenant known to them. 
My eyes are ever on the LORD, for only he will release my feet from the snare.

Oh to be so close to hear the secrets and musings of the heart of God! This Psalm of David paints a beautiful picture of the intimacy God desires with us. Think of the relationships where you trust enough to confide. You are vulnerable, open and willing to share all of yourself. You turn to them first in crisis and in joy, as well as the day-today happenings. Those relationships aren’t formed overnight. They are often tested and change when true intimacy is not found. Through David’s Psalm, God is telling us He wants to be so much closer to us. He wants to reveal His heart to us. What is the snare we must be released from? Maybe it is putting people and earthly relationships before Him. Maybe, it is the pride we have in assuming we know what is best. Instead of the healthy fear of the LORD and taking situations to Him, we spin in circles trying to fix them on our own. All the while, the Holy God of the Universe is waiting to whisper in our ears!

Holy God, May you always be my most intimate friend. I want to be close enough to You to hear the musings of Your heart. Rescue me from the snare of self! I adore You! Amen

Daily Dose 1-29-11

Matthew 13:26 Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”

When Jesus said these words it was following the rich man’s sadness at being asked to give up his wealth and give to the poor. Jesus shared with his disciples how challenging it is for the rich to enter the kingdom. Out of context, this verse is a great motivation to put your trust in God to achieve lofty goals and overcome obstacles. It is true and a very good thing. Within the context, this is a call for prioritizing our trust. The rich man was “faithful” and looked really good on the outside – as if he loved and trusted God. But Jesus saw his heart. Jesus knew the man loved his possessions and trusted in his wealth – those he could not give up. What is it that you really love more than God – possessions, family, friends? What is it that you rely on before you look to God? Is it your job and work ethic that you think provides for you? Examine your heart and give it ALL to God. What seems impossible will be made possible when filtered through His loving hands.

Father, I do love You and want to follow You. Show me today what stands in the way of my heart being fully Yours. May I give it to You in joy and not walk away saddened by the call to prioritize and sacrifice. Amen

Daily Dose 1-28-11

Psalm 23:1-6 The LORD is my shepherd, I lack nothing. 
He makes me lie down in green pastures, 
he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul. 
He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the darkest valley,
 I will fear no evil, for you are with me; 
your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. 
You anoint my head with oil; 
my cup overflows. 
Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, 
and I will dwell in the house of the LORD 
forever.

Committing scripture to memory is a wonderful thing. It allows you to tuck meaningful promises, guidance and comfort away in your heart to bring up when you are tempted to be overcome by fear or despair. Most Christians can quote the 23^rd Psalm. With good reason, it is one of the most popular passages in the Bible. Whether you know this scripture by heart or not - read it like you are reading it for the first time. Meditate on the beautiful imagery an let the God of all comfort refresh your soul!

Father, I look forward to the day I will live in Your house forever. But for now, there are valleys and paths I must walk . Thank You for the green pastures of Your peace and the still waters of Your Word. May I never take them for granted and call upon them every day to refresh my soul for better service for You. Amen

Daily Dose 1-27-11

Matthew 18:4b-5 He called a little child to him, and placed the child among them. And he said: “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever takes the lowly position of this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me.

When you look at the life of a child, you can see the type of trusting faith Christ desires for us. Children rely upon adults for their protection and provision. When they are hurt, they run to their parents for comfort. They laugh and jump into the arms of loving adults. When they are afraid, they come to their parents for assurance. Little children believe what they are told without over-analyzing every word. Does that describe your faith? Do you seek God in your hurt and fears? Do you run to Him in loving praise? Do you believe His promises?

Loving Father, I am Your child. You look upon me with love and Your desire is for me to be close to You and love You. Too often, I feel the need to “grow up” and do it on my own, in areas where You say, “I’ve got this one for you.” Help me to trust more and worry less – praise more and fret less. You are MY Father. I am Your child. I believe You! Amen

Daily Dose 1-26-11

Exodus 2:14 God said to Moses, “I AM WHO I AM. This is what you are to say to the Israelites: ‘I AM has sent me to you.’”

We are all on a journey of learning more about God and who He is. The fear Moses experienced at the burning bush must have been great. To hear the voice of God from the bush was enough; but to be given such a huge assignment was unbelievable. How could God use Moses, an orphan, a murderer, and exile on the run? The answer was simple, “I am.” God intended to use a man whose heart was passionate for God and His people. He had weaknesses and disadvantages, but it didn’t matter because God pledged His support and assistance. Is God calling you to a mission you don’t think you are capable of accomplishing? The truth is, you probably can’t – but with I AM in you – all things are possible.

Great I AM, So often I am full of “I can’t” and worries of failing or disappointing You or others. Help me remember that when I can’t, I AM in me can! Empower me through Your Spirit to do what You would have me to do. No assignment from You is too small or too great.

Daily Dose 1-25-11

Genesis 50:19-21 But Joseph said to them, “Don’t be afraid. Am I in the place of God? You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives. So then, don’t be afraid. I will provide for you and your children.” And he reassured them and spoke kindly to them.

TRUE forgiveness is a tough thing. We look at the forgiveness Jesus offered and are amazed and as Christian seek to emulate that behavior. However, when our level of pure, complete forgiveness doesn’t measure up, it’s easy to say, “I’m not Jesus.” God gives us pictures of other people in the Bible to serve as examples as well. Joseph’s brothers sold him into slavery. They tortured their father with grief making him believe Joseph was dead. Once Jacob was dead, the brothers feared Joseph would do what common sense would tell him to do and have the brothers imprisoned or killed. But Joseph knew that was not God’s plan. He forgave. He provided for all their needs – and the last is a kicker – he spoke kindly to them. THAT is complete, true forgiveness. If we can deal with kindness those who have wronged us, we can experience more of God’s blessings.

Father, It’s easy to say I forgive. Let my actions speak louder than my words. May I deal with kindness to those who common sense tells me do not deserve my kindness. I certainly do not deserve the kindness You and Your son have afforded me. Thank You! Amen

Daily Dose 1-24-11

Proverbs 4:20-27 Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it. 
Keep your mouth free of perversity keep corrupt talk far from your lips. 
Let your eyes look straight ahead; fix your gaze directly before you. 
Give careful thought to the paths for your feet and be steadfast in all your ways. Do not turn to the right or the left; keep your foot from evil.

Proverbs is a manual for living out a Godly life. Wisdom is a trait we should all beg for, just as King Solomon did. This particular scripture again focuses on the heart as the source of who we are and how we act and react in situations. God knows that it is best for us to live intentional lives for Him. When we are focused on His plan and His will, we will not stray; we will not fall. It is when we are distracted by the choices and demands of life that our paths become cluttered and complicated. Focus on the eyes of Jesus to maintain the compass for your life. He will help you manage the potholes and difficult trails on life’s journey!

Dear God of All Wisdom, Give me Your wisdom! Soften my heart to do Your will so that my journey in life will be a direct path to Your heart. Fix my yes upon Jesus and shield them form the distractions that pop along the way. I love that You will not ever let me walk alone! Amen

Daily Dose 1-23-11

Psalm 19:14 May these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart 
be pleasing in your sight, LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer.

Maybe David was considered the Man After God’s Own Heart because he was so concerned about the condition of his own heart. We read studies and follow guidelines for heart healthy lifestyles for our physical hearts; but what do we do to keep our spiritual hearts in condition? Praying for protection is a first step. Ask God to soften, prick and strengthen your heart to remain molded to His will. Second, spend time feasting on God’s word…no calories there! Meditate on its laws and commands. Stand on the promises; and revel with joy at the unconditional love and salvation provided by our Holy God and His sacrificial son. Third, have a daily check-up to test the condition of your heart by listening to the words that come from it. Are they words of encouragement, blessing and peace to those around you? Do you deal with others with kindness and respect? As with any ailment, early detection is always best for a cure!

Father, Provide the therapy my heart needs to be in its best condition for You. Massage the hardened areas that prevent the growth of the Fruit of Your Spirit. Protect my heart from bitterness and fill it with Your joy! Amen

Daily Dose 1-22-11

Matthew 14:28-31 “Lord, if it’s you,” Peter replied, “tell me to come to you on the water.” “Come,” he said. Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, “Lord, save me!” Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. “You of little faith,” he said, “why did you doubt?”

Peter always gets the bad rap on this one, doesn’t he? Everyone remembers that he focused on the wind instead of Jesus and began to sink. Some may read frustration in Jesus’ tone when He questioned Peter about his doubt. However, it seems more likely Jesus was thrilled that Peter got out of the boat and tried. He invested a great deal of effort to growing the faith of these men. To have one step out in faith with courage was rewarding. The tone was probably more of a disappointment FOR Peter not disappointed IN Peter. He was sad that he didn’t continue the experience. What is it Jesus has asked you to get out of the boat and do with Him? If you feel the winds of fear blowing, focus on the eyes of Jesus, not the eye of the storm!

Father, Jesus wants me to be bold in my faith. I want to be bolder, but over-thinking and fears distract me. Keep my eyes focused on Jesus and keep me walking with Him! Amen

Daily Dose 1-21-11

Psalm 18:35-36 You make your saving help my shield, and your right hand sustains me; your help has made me great. You provide a broad path for my feet, so that my ankles do not give way.

The picture brought to mind by this scripture is one of a hiking guide leading someone up a treacherous path. The guide is keenly aware of the dangers on the journey. He shields his walker from falling debris. He holds the hand and walks backward, clearing the path before the walker takes a step. That hiking guide for us is Jesus. His sacrifice shields us from the sins that would cause eternal death. He holds us up and clears the path for our safety. He doesn’t promise the hike of life will be an easy one, but with our eyes fixed on Him, our walk is secure.

Dear Jesus, Thank You that I am not walking this path of life alone. Even though there are times when the incline is steep and the path is rough, You sustain and strengthen me. Holding Your hand, I know that when I trip, You will steady my feet and be my support to walk again. I pray for those who do not have You walking with them. May they take Your hand and find the joy and comfort of Your strengthening guidance. Amen

Daily Dose 1-20-11

Psalm 18:1-2 I love you, LORD, my strength. The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.

Psalm 18 is a major thank you note from David to God after he had been rescued from the heavy pursuit of King Saul. David doesn’t offer a polite thank you and move on. He showers God with love, adoration and acknowledges Him as his source of strength. One can assume he did not have his head quietly bowed as he whispered his praise. More than likely, he was talking with his hands and acting out God’s might with gestures of strength. Oh to have been an angel on the shoulder of God as He listened in on this praise from His child!

Father, Unleash my inhibitions and allow me to REALLY thank you. May I learn to praise with the enthusiasm of David. Take my heart to a new level of praise so that my unbridled gratitude may make Your heart glad and bring a smile upon Your face. Amen

Daily Dose 1-19-11

Genesis 41:15-16 Pharaoh said to Joseph, “I had a dream, and no one can interpret it. But I have heard it said of you that when you hear a dream you can interpret it.” “I cannot do it,” Joseph replied to Pharaoh, “but God will give Pharaoh the answer he desires.”

It could have been easy for Joseph to be down and discouraged and think God had deserted him. Not only had his brothers sold him into slavery, he was also falsely accused by his master’s wife and imprisoned. He had a track record for accurately predicting dreams. He could have interpreted and received the glory for himself. However, Joseph knew that no matter how difficult his life may have seemed, God had His Hand over him. He quickly knew to whom all credit should be given. He humbly set self aside and gave God the glory.

Father, Even though life is not always what I want it to be or think it should be, I know You are with me. Thank You for Your blessings and Hand of protection. May I always be quick to use gifts You have bestowed for Your glory. Amen

Daily Dose 1-18-11

Psalm 16:7-8 I will praise the LORD, who counsels me; even at night my heart instructs me. I keep my eyes always on the LORD. With him at my right hand, I will not be shaken.

In the midst of fear, in the heated flee from his enemies - or when times were good - David knew where his focus should be. He kept his eyes on the LORD. David was not a perfect man – he had some major blunders in his walk with God. But, no matter what, David’s heart was focused in praise and quick to repent when he did wrong. He stood firm in the LORD, knowing God would guide his steps. Are you a little shaky in life’s walk? Have you had some rough roads to travel? Turn your eyes to the ONE who can steady your steps and walk you through. Let your last thoughts at night be words of thanksgiving and praise; and open your eyes each morning with hope. Know that no matter what challenges you face – there is a nail-scarred hand holding yours as you journey through the hills and valleys of life.

Dear Jesus, David had a great relationship with God that I desire. However, I have more than David did – I have You as the One to lead me to the heart of the Father! Thank You for making me pure and holy in His eyes, so that my eyes can confidently look to Him for strength. Steady my walk in this life. Thank You for taking my right hand in Yours. May I never let go! Amen

Daily Dose 1-17-11

Genesis 35:7b, 10 There he built an altar, and he called the place El Bethel, because it was there that God revealed himself to him when he was fleeing from his brother…God said to him, “Your name is Jacob,^, but you will no longer be called Jacob; your name will be Israel.” So he named him Israel.

The story of Jacob is intriguing. Some of his actions we read about in scripture, like the deceiving his brother Esau, cause us to pause and wonder why God chose him to be the one through which God’s people would be blessed. The one common motive that can be observed about Jacob was his desire for God’s blessing – not for selfish gain – but because he loved God so much. God seemed to love Jacob’s pursuit and continued to bless him. However, God did not change his name to solidify the promise to Abraham through him until Jacob had been reconciled to Esau. Could that be an early scriptural lesson in unity? What blessing does God want to pour out on you or your church, but He waits for reconciliation?

Father, I want your blessing for our church, our community, and me. Guide me and others you love toward the reconciliation You desire. Mend broken relationships and heal wounded hearts. Amen