Posts

Posted on

God’s Value System

Scripture: I tell you, among those born of woman there is no one greater than John; yet the one who is least in the kingdom of God is greater than he.”  Luke 7:28 NIV

Observation: God’s order of things is all backwards according to man’s standard. Doesn’t he get it?

Application: Look at our lives.  I’ll bet some of the greatest influences on our faith have come from those of a “lower station” in life. God has blessed me with a Godly lieutenant, two Godly privates, a beautiful God-fearing wife, and now a wise pastor for a son. All of these people, and they are just some of the great influences in my life, have been “lower” in the food chain. But, God in his wisdom uses, and has since the beginning, people of lesser station to teach us “high and mighties” his true plan. Maybe it’s us that just don’t get it. God’s value system is AWESOME!!!

Prayer: Father, thank you for teaching us worth as you use any and all of your valued children to share the good news of Christ with us. The Pharisees had nothing on many of our churches of today–but, those churches are US. We all have worth and value in your eyes Lord, help us to remember your truth that “the last will be first.” Amen

Doug

Posted on

Love Your Enemies

Scripture: “If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? Even ‘sinners’ love those who love them.  Luke 6:32 NIV

Observation: We are to love our enemies.

Application: As I write this the local news is on. A story about the killing of Dr. Tiller has just run. This passage speaks to me of the hatred for his enemy which drove Reoder to murder being in direct contrast to the Lord’s teaching.  While abortion is wrong–the punishment for that crime is the Lord’s to give, not ours. Our responsibility is to pray for Tiller’s heart change, not ending his life.

Prayer: Father, help me to love those who hate you and me.  Amen

Doug

Posted on

Be a Blessing to the World

Scripture: I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.”. Genesis 12:3 NIV

Observation: God’s people are a gift to the world. We are not to be of the world but we are to be a blessing to the world.

Application: I have a responsibility to everyone that I meet to be the face of God to them. Help me to remember to be that face in humbleness.

Prayer: Lord, help me to be the Christian that you expect me to be in this world.  Amen

Doug