Power of the Cross

May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had, so that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. – Romans 15:5-6

One point written about in the post “Pulling Together with Christ” is that unity comes from having a common purpose and all Christians should agree about the purpose of the Cross. Around this agreement, there is great power to organize and be victorious against anything that goes against this great purpose.

The church is a community of people working together with Christ as their leader. We are stronger together and God’s Plan for Us not only changes our individual life for the better but also the world is changed for the better.

Let us be inspired by the song How Great is our God by Chris Tomlin and know that everything is possible because of the power of the Cross. 

Index of devotionals

The Reward is with the Lord

Behold, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to everyone according to what he has done. - Revelation 22:12

As brought out in the post “Keeping Sight of Doing Right”, the greatest reward is doing the right thing so the heart is at peace in knowing that God will reward with an eternal destiny.

Just as pointed out in this song Lose My Soul by Toby Mac ft. Kirk Franklin, Mandisa, some are consumed by gaining the whole world but in the process lose their soul. Instead, do the right things in life and look forward your eternal destiny.

Index of devotionals

Care and Share

In the post “Stirring Each Other Up”, I shared some thoughts on actively seeking out others to care about and share God’s Word with at our places of work, in our neighborhoods, or at the schools we attend.

The lost get found by taking every opportunity to care about each other and to share about Christ. Whether it is at lunch break sharing about God’s Word, helping a neighbor, or meeting people on a road trip as Britt Nicole did in this video: The Lost Get Found – Britt Nicole, we are giving glory to God by reaching out to others right where we are.

Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you. - Matthew 28:19-20

Index of devotionals

Accepting God’s Grace and Finishing this Race Called Life

However, I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord has given me – the task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace. – Acts 20:24

As described in the post “Being a Good Example”, Paul gives us a vivid picture of his service for Jesus Christ. We should strive to follow the principles he demonstrates like overcoming difficulty, applying our faith, having a definite purpose, and going the extra mile so that we finish this race called life victoriously.

The Word of God emphasizes how we apply our faith; giving hope and having compassion for others. How we live speaks volumes to others because they see the example of victory that can become their own victory through Jesus Christ. Enjoy today’s video that puts fourth some of these same thoughts: SpeakLife – Toby Mac.

Index of devotionals

Plan that Unifies

God gives us insight into how to play our part in a bright future and gives us plans in order to make an impact. In the post The Written Plan, some thoughts were shared about a letter written to handle some growing pains of the early church. The devil was trying to disrupt their unity but this letter declared their plan for unity.

God has given us a plan that unifies all believers. At this link is “God’s Plan for Us” in a word document that can be read, downloaded and signed by anyone that would like to accept Christ as their Lord and Savior.

Today’s video Born Again by Newsboys is about this decision for Christ that simplifies and unifies so we are all on the path to a brighter future. This day with God will be amazing because of who God is and who you are; an important name in history – one of His children.

“...let us know His secret purpose.  This was what God wanted, and He planned to do it through Christ.  His goal was to carry out His plan, when the right time came, that all things in heaven and on earth would be joined together in Christ as the head. - Ephesians 1:9-11

Index of devotionals

Simplifying and Unifying

The early church grew fast but there were some growing pains. They struggled with whom should be accepted. Was a person accepted by God through good works or by grace? They were trapped by the meaningless rituals, legalisms, and ceremonies that burdens believers and this provoked disunity.

The lesson is that we need not get wrapped up in the meaningless but instead get wrapped up in the ONE essential; acceptance of Jesus as Savior. We can overcome the enemy by simplifying and unifying and Jesus does both for us. Enjoy today’s inspiring video: Empty Me – Jeremy Camp.

What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God be with us, who can be against us? - Romans 8:31

Index of devotionals

Accept the Vision and Make the Decision

When the people gathered together at the church of Antioch as described in the post Guided by the Holy Spirit, they would worship, fast, and pray. Then they would listen to the Holy Spirit for instructions on how to take action on this guidance.

As you watch and listen to today’s video Here I Am Lord, accept the vision of the good you can do for a group, good cause, or other ministry. Pray about this vision and for decisions on ways to take action.

In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead. - James 2:17

Index of devotionals

Glorify Him with One Mind and One Voice

In the post Concern for Others, I shared some thoughts after studying Acts 11:19-30. Within this passage, the Holy Spirit rallies Christians together for the purpose of spreading the Good News. The thought was that teamwork is demonstrated as Christian churches or groups show love and concern for each other.

This day with God, let us work as a team and show concern for each other. For it is Jesus Christ who binds us together and the Holy Spirit is with us wherever we go. Receive inspiration from today’s video: We will Stand – Larnelle Harris & Russ Taff.

May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had, so that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. - Romans 15:5-6

Index of devotionals

Setting Up a Good Foundation

While I was going through college, I worked for a construction company during summers and between semester breaks. Now I work with computer systems and in both areas, laying down a foundation is vital. To do things right, you want to set up a good foundation. In the post Grace Overrides the Law, Peter is laying down the foundation of the church so that it would lead to a movement in which an impact upon lives would be made.

This day with God, rejoice in the freedom He gives through grace. A freedom that helps us live, give, and love. A freedom that will speak and teach; setting a strong foundation that we can rely on. Receive inspiration from today’s video: In Christ Alone with Solid Rock.

Show me Your ways, Lord, teach me Your paths. Guide me in Your truth and teach me, for You are God my Savior, and my hope is in You all day long. - Psalm 25:4-5

Index of devotionals

Meeting Challenges Head On

Sometimes we face challenges in life that seem overwhelming. That’s when knowing that with God, everything is possible can keep us heading in a positive direction. We can pray about the challenge, make accurate decisions, gain momentum, and meet the challenge head on.

In the post Healing Power, I wrote about Peter receiving the power through Christ to heal a paralytic man named Aeneas and bringing a disciple named Dorcas back to life. The amazing power of God was made known and many turned to the Lord.

These were two of the great miracles found in the Bible but the greatest miracle of all is eternal salvation through Jesus Christ. We serve an awesome God … enjoy today’s inspiring video: Awesome God by  Michael W. Smith.

Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us. - Ephesians 3:20

Index of devotionals

No Fear Because He’s Near

As written in the post Focused on Our Strength, the early church experienced growing pains but the disciples set priorities, discovered their strength, and delegated some responsibilities to those blessed with special skills.

The results were very positive and this same strategy can be applied today by our leaders. Praying constantly for God’s help in receiving the vision. There is no fear because God is always near to hold us up on His shoulders so we can see far in the distance. Here’s today’s video to inspire this thought: Shoulders – For King & Country.

Each one should use whatever gift they have received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms. - 1 Peter 4:10

Index of devotionals

Step Out with Peace and See the Increase

In the post Promise Fulfilled, the followers of Jesus received the promised Holy Spirit and the power to spread the Good News around the world. The early church grew because it was a place of infinite challenge, intense fellowship, passionate prayer, and fervent outreach.

This same power is available today and we can passionately step out with peace of mind and see the increase. This day with God, let nothing hold us up in our work as we receive the power to one day at a time make what seems to be impossible, possible. Be inspired by this video: Break Every Chain – Jesus Culture.

Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us. - Ephesians 3:20

Index of devotionals

Post for Next day Great Attributes of Christianity

In the post The Strategy to Trap Jesus, The answer Jesus gave to the question raised by the Pharisee spies demonstrated that Christianity is broad-minded. It is clear from the response of Jesus that Christianity respects the state and can work alongside it.

Christianity celebrates our differences. God has made us all for a purpose and we need to understand that our differences are really our strength. Not only are we all different in how we think, but also in our physical attributes.

God has made us all for a purpose and we need to celebrate our differences. Here is an interesting fact about our physical differences: according to Guinness World Records, the tallest man living is 8 ft. 3 inches. The shortest man living is 2 feet tall. A startling comparison is that if humans varied as much in height as dogs do, the smallest person would be 2 feet tall and the tallest person would stand 31 feet tall!  

Human relationships are made complicated by our differences but this diversity actually makes us stronger. One great aspect of marriage is that a husband has certain attributes that help in a marriage and a wife has certain attributes. Each are united as one and offer something positive to the relationship.

Christianity is not only broad-minded in how people interact between their religion and the state, it is also perfect for human relationships. Most of all, Christianity is absolutely perfect in our relationship to God because it provides a way to return to Him. As this video points out, Christianity is a friend of sinners: Jesus, Friend of Sinners – Casting Crowns.

Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God. - Romans 15:7

Index of devotionals

Standing Up to Fear

The early Christian church faced persecution but Christ’s description of himself as the ONE who is the First (with God from the beginning) and the Last (the judge of all); who died and came to life again (Rev. 2:8) brought a reason to stand up to their fear. He gave them hope and comfort in serving a higher purpose than themselves. They were not shaken; just like this video points out: We won’t Be Shaken – Building 429.

Be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart, all you that hope in the LORD. – Psalms 31:24

For an inspirational start to each day, join the journey at: This Day with God Devotional.

Law of the Lord

Photo Credit – sheddinglightonthepath.blogspot.com

Rehoboam and his kingdom were at one point strong but he and all of Israel abandoned the law of the Lord as recorded in 2 Chronicles 12. Keeping God out encourages the enemy and in this reading, we get a good picture of this occurring. Shishak king of Egypt saw Israel’s lack of faithfulness and was encouraged to attack Jerusalem in the fifth year of Rehoboam’s reign.

Rehoboam responded with humility and God did not bring total destruction upon Israel but did make them subject to Shishak. The treasures of the temple and of the royal palace were carried off by Shishak (V. 9). Even the gold shields Solomon had made were taken and there was a general decline of the kingdom as evidenced in verses 10 and 11.

The chronicler’s general verdict concerning Rehoboam’s reign is that he started out demonstrating some good characteristics but did not make seeking God a priority. He then lost strength as a leader because he did not have God’s favor. The kingdom declined under Rehoboam but he did humble himself so God did not bring total destruction.

History has recorded that Rehoboam did not take advantage of God’s power and this resulted in weak leadership and a weakened kingdom. This day with God, let us learn from history and pray for goodness. Let us gain favor by setting our heart on seeking God. Let us remember that it is evil that takes treasure from our soul but being faithful to God, giving Him glory, and worshiping Him alone will build up treasures for the soul.

For an inspirational start to each day, join the journey at: This Day with God Devotional.

Putting God First

Photo Credit - http://biblegodquotes.com

As recorded in 2 Chronicles 8, the temple was built first and then Solomon’s own palace. Except for a hint of inconsistency (V. 11),  he kept up the holy sacrifices according to the Law of Moses. Solomon was dependable in adhering to putting God first even under the pressures of administering the kingdom (vv. 12-15).

Like Solomon, we should also put God first. Then we can carry out our other work with a purpose and continue to build upon a good foundation. We can have the right priorities and apply our faith by using our talents to help others. Our life can be the proof of God’s love in us. Growing, praying, and studying can become a great adventure when we are intentional about doing what is most important and intentional about feeding our soul good nourishment.

Spiritual sacrifices are required of us on a daily and weekly basis. Let us pray to build up treasures in heaven rather than toys on earth. Let us fulfill the duty of each day and make it our priority to glorify God in all that we do.

For an inspirational start to each day, join the journey at:

This Day with God Devotional.

I would like to share this link to the Sermon Podcast at the church I attended last Sunday. A point I noted from the message titled “Awe Factor” is that the time we spend with God is of essence. Studying His Word, reflecting on how to apply His Word, and time with Him in prayer brings power and direction in life.

Photo Credit - http://devotions.thecornerstoneforteachers.com

When we put God first, the other things in life like family, children, health, and friends seem to fall into place.  Here’s a video with a philosophy about how we use our time: The empty pickle jar.

Time goes fast so share the right words now; mark another’s life now, build relationships now, make memories now, and spend time with those you love now.

For an inspirational start to each day, join the journey at:

This Day with God Devotional.

Good Things Happen to Good People

At the second feast as recorded in Esther 7-8, Esther request that her life be spared and the life of her people be spared. Esther’s open identification with her people emphasized to the king that it was people close to her that would be destroyed. She approached the king with reverence and didn’t expect too much but the king set in action a series of events that went beyond her wildest dreams.

Haman was someone that had an evil plan against the Jewish people and only cared for his own self- interest. He was impaled on the pole that was meant for Mordecai (Esther 7:10). The king gave Esther the estate of Haman and his evil plan was overruled. A new decree was written to benefit the Jews. There was joy and celebration wherever the edict was read and placed into law throughout the provinces.

Mordecai had been a part of saving the king from assassination and we learn that he was appointed over Haman’s estate. Every successful person is surrounded by people that contribute to their success. As you go throughout this day, recognize those people who help you along the way. Pray for your spouse, your parents, and your children. Pray for those that helped you come to Christ. Pray for those that have brought peace in war-torn parts of the world. Pray that God would use you to work for His glory.

For an inspirational start to each day, join the journey at: This Day with God.

The Word of God Planted in a Soul

The Word of God planted in a soul with integrity is like seed planted in fertile soil that flourishes into a banner crop.

Photo Credit – Meditations from Zion

We can learn lessons from others in how to live but we can also learn lessons from others in how not to live. Remember how greed put Peter in a difficult situation and he didn’t handle things with integrity in Luke22:54-71. People may make you an offer that you think you can’t resist but that doesn’t mean it’s in your best interest to take them up on the proposal. A person of integrity desires faith, hope, and love more than fame, fortune, and status.

Maintain integrity by trusting in the Lord, asking Him to examine your heart and mind. Associate with good people, love the Church, and tell others about the qualities of God’s character. Even if people are treating you bad, keep your integrity and keep doing the right thing. If they get you upset and you try to pay them back, you may be the one that gets in trouble. Instead, try to forgive and believe God will bring victory into your life. Make a decision to be a person of integrity.

To read more about integrity, visit this post: What Integrity Does For Us. 

Just Finished the Book Seven Days in Utopia

I just finished a great book titled “Seven Days In Utopia: Golf’s Sacred Journey” by David L. Cook. I had the opportunity to attend a seminar he gave at my church about eight years ago. In fact, David is from Waco and his parents are members of the same church I attend. He married the daughter of a long time pastor who served at First United Methodist Waco for many years.

David is one of the country’s top speakers and coaches on Peak Performance and served as “Mental Training Coach” for the San Antonio Spurs from 1996-2004 that included two World Championships.

He now has a consulting firm that bridges the gap between the sports and business arenas to help individuals reach peak performance. His clients include companies like Exxon Mobil, Sprint, and American Express among many others.

The book was made into a movie in the summer of 2010 with Robert Duvall as lead actor and released in theaters across the country September of 2011. I would definitely recommend the book. I found it to inspire each of us to look at life in a different way so we can overcome the hazards, give it our best shot in life, and reach our maximum potential.