Job 38:22-27
“Have you entered the storehouses of the snow or seen the storehouses of the hail, which I reserve for times of trouble, for days of war and battle? What is the way to the place where the lightning is dispersed, or the place where the east winds are scattered over the earth? Who cuts a channel for the torrents of rain, and a path for the thunderstorm, to water a land where no man lives, a desert with no one in it, to satisfy a desolate wasteland and make it sprout with grass?”
When my wife and I were first married, we lived in a house by a lake. When thunderstorms would come through, you could see them getting closer from miles away. I would love to shut all the lights in the house and sit on the front porch to watch them.
Then, when we moved to Maryland, we lived in a townhouse. I had to walk a couple of blocks to a playground for an open view to the west. I could watch the storms from there. Usually, I was able to time it pretty well – I knew exactly when to start running home so I would make it before the downpour hit.
I do enjoy watching a thunderstorm approach – it reminds me that there are things in this world beyond our control. It is easy to see that truth illustrated by the weather. In society, where electricity, cars, and computers put the illusion of control at our fingertips, it is harder to grasp that concept. Usually we only realize how frail we are when something breaks down or a natural disaster occurs.
We need to place our whole lives in God’s hands. Only then will we be secure from the storms of life. We can then watch the approach with the confidence that comes from knowing that we are safely sheltered in His unshakable arms. Whether you have done it in the past or not, today would be a good day to go before God and place your whole life in His care – you will be glad that you did.
Tags: Bible, Christian, control, devotion, disciple, distractions, downpour, encouragement, faith, fear, God's faithfulness, God's hands, God's protection, overcoming, prayer, prepare, problems, protection, storms, thunderstorms, trust, victory, weather
Jesus was arrested, just before the crucifixion. Then He was taken to the high priest for questioning. At this point in the narrative Luke makes an interesting comment about Peter.
Luke 22:54
Then seizing him, they led him away and took him into the house of the high priest. Peter followed at a distance.
This is the same Peter who said he would die with Christ, if necessary. The one who was always so outspoken about his faith in the Lord. Yet, here he is seen shrinking back into the shadows.
This begs the question about our walk with Jesus. We are always so quick to point out that we follow Christ. What does that mean to you? The real question is, “How closely are you following?” Peter was following Him, but far enough away so that it wasn’t obvious that he was with the Lord.
So often we don’t want it to be seen that we are different from the world. We want to blend in with society. We don’t want to get too radical in our Christian walk. Is that the way it’s supposed to be?
I believe that if we’re going to follow Christ, then we must live openly for Him. Even the most casual observer should be able to recognize that there is a difference in how we go about our daily routines.
People aren’t shy at all about using foul language, or other ungodly activity. Christians, on the other hand, are so worried about “offending” anyone. We should not be afraid of praying or talking about Christ in public. We need to stop following Him at a distance.
Tags: Bible, blending in, Christ, Christian, Christian witness, devotion, disciple, distance, encouragement, fear, following, following Jesus, God's will, Jesus Christ, overcoming, prayer, problems, public prayer, shrinking back, shy, testimony, trust, victory, walk with Jesus
Mark 13:14
“When you see ‘the abomination that causes desolation’ standing where it does not belong – let the reader understand – then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains.”
Jesus was giving His disciples a prophetic word concerning what they would be facing in the years ahead. He was explaining to them about the fall of Jerusalem and the desecration of the temple. He told them that when they see these things occur it was time to head for the hills, as the city would not be safe any longer.
“Fee to the mountains” is still good advice today. When sin and the “abominations” of life start to weaken you, you must find a refuge for rest and relief. You have to find a place to be alone with God. Your faith and strength need to be restored in His presence.
Throughout Scripture we are exhorted to enter the mountains of God. We need to seek a mountaintop experience with the Lord. This is quality time, not just rattling off a list of needs and wants. It is spending a while just listening to Him. That is probably the hardest thing for any Christian to accomplish – spending time in silence. In some cases it may be just as hard as scaling a tall mountain.
It is in the quiet places that your spirit can be renewed and refreshed. You can put the noise of society behind you and hear the voice of Christ calling you to a higher walk. Spend that quality time before Him today. In His presence is all you need for life and godliness. If you will flee to His side, you will have all the strength you need to continue on and face your battles victoriously.
Tags: alone with God, Bible, Christ, Christian, devotion, distractions, encouragement, faith, God's will, higher, Holy Spirit, intimacy, mountain, mountaintop, mountaintop experience, overcoming, presence of the lord, refresh, relief, renew, rest, restoration, revival, strength, trust, victory
Exodus 13:17-18
When Pharaoh let the people go, God did not lead them on the road through the Philistine country, though that was shorter. For God said, “If they face war, they might change their minds and return to Egypt.” So God led the people around by the desert road toward the Red Sea. The Israelites went up out of Egypt armed for battle.
The best path is not always the shortest. Sometimes, the road you take is as important as the destination. As a matter of fact, if we wanted the quickest way between two points, we would have to fly like a bird!
We sometimes get frustrated with God because He doesn’t seem to be leading us to our destiny by the shortest route. As Israel had to learn, the shortest way may prove disastrous. God knew the road ahead and took them the way that would insure their survival. We need to trust God’s plan for our lives as well. It may be that the longer path is what’s needed for our ultimate victory.
Why are you taking the route you are on? That is not only a question you need to ask on the road, but also in life. What choices brought you to this place? Where does this road ultimately lead you? Is the destination worth the trip?
These are things to ponder in God’s presence as you free yourself of distractions. One of your goals should be to see where you’ve come from and where you are headed. That way you can make a course adjustment if necessary.
Spend time with the Lord today seeking His insight. Let Him share His mind with you. Remember, you might not be on the quickest path, but that doesn’t mean it is not the right one. Take the time today to establish God’s path as the final authority for your journey through life.
Tags: Bible, Christian, course adjustment, course change, course correction, destiny, devotion, disciple, distractions, encouragement, faith, God's will, overcoming, path, path of life, presence of the lord, questions, shortest route, trust, trusting God, victory
God has given you many precious promises. Some are in the Scripture, while others are more personal – between God and you. How real are they to you?
Deuteronomy 34:1-2
Then Moses climbed Mount Nebo from the plains of Moab to the top of Pisgah, across from Jericho. There the LORD showed him the whole land – from Gilead to Dan, all of Naphtali, the territory of Ephraim and Manasseh, all the land of Judah as far as the western sea.
Sometimes, when you’re alone with God, He will take you for a mountaintop view of the promise. Maybe it will deal with your calling, career, family, relationships, or some other area of your life. At that point you will see clearly what He has in store for you, even if He doesn’t always show the path by which He will take you there.
It is always God’s will to share His plans with His people, the problem is, we are not always listening. The Lord waits until He has our undivided attention so that He can speak to us clearly and without distraction.
He wants to show you a glimpse of His plan for you. It will encourage you and strengthen you for the road ahead. Always be ready for these moments of clarity. Unfortunately, these times are few and far between in our lives. Missing the chance that the Lord offers will hurt your progress, but responding to His call will affect the rest of your life.
Use your time wisely. Spend quality time in His presence, listening for His voice. Seek to know His will for your life.
Tags: Bible, calling, Christian, destiny, devotion, distractions, encouragement, God's faithfulness, God's voice, God's will, higher, Holy Spirit, listening, listening heart, mountain, mountaintop, overcoming, path, power, prayer, prepare, presence of the lord, promise, promises, strength, trust, undivided attention
Exodus 4:19-20
Now the LORD had said to Moses in Midian, “Go back to Egypt, for all the men who wanted to kill you are dead.” So Moses took his wife and sons, put them on a donkey and started back to Egypt. And he took the staff of God in his hand.
Moses had been away from his adopted home in Egypt for a long while. But in this time of his life, God was calling him to go back. He had a mission from God – to set his people free. Even so, it still required a wilderness journey.
Sometimes the hardest thing to do is to leave a comfortable place. Many people have had to move for various reasons. I have had to make a move a few times. It’s not that tough to pack up and fill boxes. But when the moving truck is all loaded and you are looking into an empty house or apartment – a subtle transformation occurs.
Suddenly, without warning, the place that you’ve called home for this part of your life is no longer yours. Now you’re on the road and headed for a new destination.
We may be very content where our life is right now. Then, when God calls us to a higher level, we can never be satisfied this way again. Remember that we need to be a people who are packed and ready to go. This world is not our home and the things of this world will never truly fulfill us.
When you go before the Lord today reiterate to Him your total commitment to following His path for your life – no matter where it leads. Thank Him for your destiny in Him. Then be open and listening for any course changes He may speak to you this day.
Tags: Bible, calling, Christian, comfortable, content, course change, destination, destiny, devotion, disciple, encouragement, faith, higher, move, overcoming, path, prepare, satisfied, trust
Isaiah 44:3-4
For I will pour water on the thirsty land, and streams on the dry ground; I will pour out my Spirit on your offspring, and my blessing on your descendants. They will spring up like grass in a meadow, like poplar trees by flowing streams.
When I go hiking, I always prepare by reading what the trail guide says about the area. Many times I find these words concerning a campsite. “The spring may not be reliable in dry seasons.” Practically speaking then, what good is it? At the very time you’d need it the most – it’s gone.
Some of our friends are like that. Just when you need them the most they’re not around. Or, along the same lines, they promise to be somewhere to help you and then never show up.
This is not so with the Lord. He is the friend that “sticks closer than a brother.” He is always right there when you need Him. As a matter of fact, the Word says that He even knows what you need before you ask Him.
He is that spring in the wilderness that is always flowing, always reliable. Even in the driest point in your life, you can draw cool, refreshing water from that living well. He promised “never to leave us nor forsake us” and “He is not a man that He should lie.”
Draw life-giving water from that well today. Spend some quality time in His presence being renewed, refreshed and refilled. Avail yourself to the resources only the Lord can provide. You will find your walk with Him to be much more enjoyable.
Tags: Bible, Christian, devotion, dry season, encouragement, faith, God's faithfulness, Holy Spirit, living water, overcoming, praise, prayer, presence of the lord, refill, refresh, reliable, renew, revival, spring, strength, unreliable, victory, water, wilderness
What is God’s greatest call on your life? What does He want you to do more than anything else?
Micah 6:8
He has showed you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.
This is probably one of the most important concepts for any Christian to understand. It is God’s greatest desire for His people. It’s for them to come into relationship with Him. It’s not just about going to Him when we need help, but to simply spend time with Him – to walk with the Lord.
If you read the beginning of Genesis you will find that God walked regularly with Adam before the fall. Great men of faith, like Enoch, Abraham, and Moses walked with God. That’s His desire for us as well.
Walking with someone assumes certain things. It means that you have agreed to go in the same direction. You’re also going the same speed. In order for this to happen in the spiritual, we need to spend time with the Lord to get to know His heart. What direction is He going, and how quickly?
There is another key word in this verse – humbly. I am not the one setting the pace for this walk. I must yield my will to His. It’s unfortunate that so much of our time in prayer is spent trying to get God to walk in our direction and at our speed. No wonder there are so many frustrated Christians. We must learn that it’s God’s plan that’s important. I must pick up His plan if I want to succeed in this life.
Take the time today to humble yourself before God. Lay your plans at His feet. Let the Lord know that you’re willing to let Him set the pace for your life. Then you can go forward in the security that your destination is the one that God has planned out for you.
Tags: Abraham, Adam, Bible, Christ, Christian, destiny, devotion, direction, disciple, encouragement, Enoch, faith, fellowship, Genesis, God's will, humble, intimacy, Jesus Christ, Moses, overcoming, path, presence of the lord, relationship, speed, time with God, walk with God
1 Timothy 4:8
For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come.
Physical training and exercise is good. We need to be in shape if we want to do our best work for God. I firmly believe that God wants us to take proper care of our physical bodies.
That, however, is only part of the story. We also are to be in shape spiritually. Our inner being requires just as much care and attention as the outer. Unfortunately, most Christians ignore this fact to their own detriment. Of the two of these goals, I believe that keeping our spiritual life in shape is the tougher assignment.
One of the reasons I enjoy hiking so much is that wilderness training can meet both needs – physical and spiritual. On the one hand, I have lost thirty pounds since I started hiking and I can now run up a flight of stairs without breathing heavy. On the other side of the coin, through my time spent with the Lord in the woods I have developed a new depth of insight into the Word of God. In the wilderness, prayer and meditation can be accomplished for hours at a time with little or no interruptions. At the same time you are increasing your physical endurance.
However you choose to work out your spiritual training, this is a good day to deepen your walk with the Lord. Seek Him as you walk before God this day.
Tags: Bible, Christian, devotion, disciple, encouragement, godliness, hiking, Holy Spirit, in shape, meditation, overcoming, physical training, prayer, prepare, presence of the lord, spiritual, spiritual life, strength, victory
Philippians 3:12-14
Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.
It is not always easy to press on. Sometimes it is an effort just to put one foot in front of the other. Hikers and joggers have learned to just keep moving forward. There have been times when I was hiking that, because of injury or pain, I have felt like giving up. It is in times like those that I had to keep telling myself, “As long as you keep taking each step, you will come to the end of the trail.”
It is the same thing in life. It is usually not the big things that knock us down, but the continual monotony of our daily lives, day after day, week after week. It is the constant grind that saps our strength and weakens our spirit.
In order to overcome, we need to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus. We know that if we keep to His course for our lives, we will come out with His result. We will lay hold of the prize for which He has called us.
Don’t give up. Go to the Lord today and ask for His strength for the road ahead. Don’t live a day without allowing His renewing Spirit to work in your life.
Tags: Bible, calling, Christ, Christian, daily grind, devotion, disciple, effort, encouragement, faith, giving up, glory, God's faithfulness, Holy Spirit, Jesus Christ, monotony, move forward, overcoming, path, prayer, press on, problems, renew, renewal, strength, trust, victory
The Spirit and the Word 