Showing posts with label Scripture. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Scripture. Show all posts

Friday, February 1, 2019

Questions for Reflection for Study of Psalm 30-37

I want to take this time to thank all of you my readers. I’ve found this blog to be a great tool in my journey through the Bible and you, my readers are keeping me accountable to daily Bible reading and study. We live in a busy world with busy schedules and being able to share some thoughts about this journey with others across this world through the Internet is truly a blessing.

Last year, the journey through God’s Word took us through the book of Romans, Proverbs, and finished with 1 Corinthians. As the journey continues this year, I will finish going through the Psalms. The Psalms are personal and public poems of worship used as hymns.

The mission of this blog is to bring out ways to better apply God’s Word in our life at work, at home, and within our neighborhoods. The questions for reflection for the study of Psalm 31-37 below will help bring out some thoughts and ideas over the next few weeks.

The Lord speaks to us in various ways – visions, dreams, and life’s circumstances; even advice from others. Most of all, God speaks through the Bible. Thus, the main purpose of this blog is to study His Word with the intent to gain wisdom that we may apply in our own lives and also help others along the journey.

The reading plan below will be used as I continue the study of  the Psalms. It’s important to have a plan. I’m thankful that Jesus is God’s plan for us and by accepting Him as Savior; we have taken the steps necessary to make this day with Him amazing!


Questions for Reflection

Psalm 30
What has been David’s sense of security? What happens to shake his confidence? What is the source of a more solid sense of security? What is the basis of your sense of security?

Psalms 31
What are David’s requests for help (v. 1-8)? What problems can you turn over to God? How can you follow the command of verses 23-24 today?

Psalms 32
How does verse 1 capture the main idea of the psalm? What insight do you gain into the psychological implications of repressed and confessed sin? Who is speaking in verse 8-9 and what is the command?

Psalms 33
What indicates that this psalm is designed for corporate worship? What reasons does the psalmist give for praising God? How does the psalmist picture God as Creator? What part does God’s word have? How does God treat the plans of the nations?

Psalms 34
For what does David praise God? What is taught in verses 11-14? What confidence does David show in verses 15-22? How can you have similar confidence?

Psalms 35
What is David’s tone as he calls on God to help him? How was he confident? In what situations today will you expect God’s deliverance and claim expression of praise?

Psalms 36
How is the wicked person described? To what end does the wicked come (v. 12)? What quality of God’s righteousness does David stress? Why are you confident of God’s love to you?

Psalms 37
What contrasts does David make between the righteous and the wicked? Why does God deliver the righteous? How will the certainty of your future affect your living today?

Feel free to respond with a short note or a comment about any of the questions above. Also, I welcome any other thoughts or ideas, favorite inspirational videos, photos, or favorite Bible verses. Just add them to the comments or to a Facebook page I’ve set up at this link: This Day With God. 

Resources and Supplementary Helps Used in Posts
Adeney, Carol. This Morning with God: A Daily Study Guide to the Entire Bible. Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity, 1978. Print. 
"Sermons." Sermons | FUMC Waco. N.p., n.d. Web.  <http://fumcwaco.org/resources/sermons/>.
"Bible." The Bible - The Word of God - ChristNotes. N.p., n.d. Web. 2017. <http://www.christianity.com/bible/>.
Nicholes, Lou. "Recent Commentaries." Family-Times.net - Devotional Commentary Index. N.p., n.d. Web. <http://www.family-times.net/commentary/>.
"Google Images." Google Images. N.p., n.d. Web. <https://www.google.com/imghp?hl=en&tab=wi&authuser=0&ei=8IipWNPmOoPBmwHIpZ2ACQ&ved=0EKouCBcoAQ>.
"BibleGateway." BibleGateway.com: A Searchable Online Bible in over 150 Versions and 50 Languages. N.p., n.d. Web. <https://www.biblegateway.com/>.

Wednesday, November 28, 2018

Questions for Reflection for Study of 1 Corinthians 14-16


I’ve shared over the past few weeks some thoughts and ideas in ways to apply what we learn in the Bible from 1 Corinthians 10-13. 


Paying attention to what God has done long-ago, taking note of what He is doing in the present, and what He is revealing for the yet to come is very important.

Whatever we do, we should follow the example of Christ who passionately carried out daily activities for the glory of the Father. We’ve been given free will but that doesn’t mean that everything we do is best for us. We should seek to take actions that benefit ourselves and those around us.

Our growing faith can never be taken away or depleted and there is a beautiful and refreshing simplicity about the gospel message that sets us free and never lets us down. As the song O Come To The Altar by Elevation Worship points out, forgiveness was bought with the precious blood of Christ. Let us tell the world of the treasure we’ve found.




As we grow in faith, there is a purpose God has for each of us so prepare for each day by taking in the Word, praying, and planning for the tasks of each day. Obstacles may be placed in our way but continue to daily receive the Lord’s instructions, be inspired by Christ, and verified with Biblical principles. Have faith that things will fall into place and you will get a lot more things done than you ever imagined you could.

This Day with the Lord will be amazing because of who He is and who we are; an important name in history – one of His children. Each person has a spiritual gift and the same Spirit distributes them. The body of Christ coalesce the diverse gifts and through the Spirit, we can discover our gifts for the express purpose of kingdom building.

The post “The Most Excellent Way” discusses how Paul relates the parts of the human body to the church body. Each member has God given abilities and should carry out their individual role so that the whole body is functioning at the most excellent level.

There are three higher spiritual gifts revealed to us during the last few weeks. They are faith, hope, and love. These three spiritual gifts are considered more superior than the other gifts because without them, the other gifts are useless. Love is the greatest God given gift. More superior to the skills given to accumulate vast riches as a famous person, a celebrity, or great athlete.

Think of ways to plant seeds of faith, hope, and love; producing fruit for not only yourself, but for others. God loves people everywhere. No matter where they come from or what they look like, God loves them and God loves you! You will be made aware that you are loved beyond measure and you will return this love unconditionally to others.

Thoughts and ideas for how to apply our faith is the main purpose for the “This Day with God” devotional. A daily devotional that internalizes His guiding principles and an instrument which pushes one to focus on Him in every activity throughout the day. My hope is that you will seek the Lord’s will in prayer, balance career, family, and love of neighbor.

The reading plan below will be used as I share over the next few posts. It’s important to have a plan. I’m thankful that Jesus is God’s plan for us and by accepting Him as Savior; we have taken the steps necessary to make this day with Him amazing!

Questions for Reflection

What is the purpose of the spiritual gift of prophecy? How does this gift benefit? How does Paul substantiate his statements to the Corinthians?

What are the rules Paul gives concerning conduct in the church? In what ways are tongues and prophecy controllable? How can you keep a balance between respect for Christian heritage and innovations relating to the contemporary generation?

What is the gospel Paul summarizes? What are the facts? How does Paul substantiate Christ’s resurrection? How is God’s grace shown in your life?

What logical conclusions follow if there is no resurrection of the dead? What kind of attitude and behavior would result in those who believe in resurrection? How does the defeat of death fit into God’s overall plan?

How does Paul use parallels in nature to help the Corinthians grasp truths of the resurrection? How will death be defeated ultimately? In what ways will you demonstrate the defeat of death?

What does Paul say are reasons for giving? What does Paul desire to see accomplished in other Christians as he works for and with them? Are there ideas you have for helping and encouraging other people?

Feel free to respond with a short note or a comment about any of the questions above. Also, I welcome any other thoughts or ideas, favorite inspirational videos, photos, or favorite Bible verses. Just add them to the comments or to a Facebook page I’ve set up at this link: This Day With God.

Resources and Supplementary Helps Used in Posts

Adeney, Carol. This Morning with God: A Daily Study Guide to the Entire Bible. Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity, 1978. Print.

"Sermons." Sermons | FUMC Waco. N.p., n.d. Web.  <http://fumcwaco.org/resources/sermons/>.

"Bible." The Bible - The Word of God - ChristNotes. N.p., n.d. Web. 2017. <http://www.christianity.com/bible/>.

Nicholes, Lou. "Recent Commentaries." Family-Times.net - Devotional Commentary Index. N.p., n.d. Web. <http://www.family-times.net/commentary/>.


"BibleGateway." BibleGateway.com: A Searchable Online Bible in over 150 Versions and 50 Languages. N.p., n.d. Web. <https://www.biblegateway.com/>.


Wednesday, October 31, 2018

Questions for Reflection for Study of 1 Corinthians 10-13


The last few weeks has been spent going through and sharing some thoughts about the study of 1 Corinthians 6-9. Paul continues to discuss some issues within the early church. Ethics and love of neighbor is already in the agreement of Christianity. If disputes occur, try to handle them within the believer community rather than putting them into our legal system that is bogged down with trivial matters.

Paul goes from legal matters into the areas of family and health. He points out that the purpose of our body is a holy place for the Spirit. We should therefor honor God with healthy habits. Then he gives advice about marriage. If a decision is made to get married, we should search for a spouse that has a good influence on us. Things will not always be peaches and cream but desire to live in peace, find contentment, and work as a team.
  
Marriage brings on responsibilities like mortgages, raising children, chores around the house, and other concerns in life. We worry about paying our bills, washing the car, mowing the lawn, or passing a test when we need to be thinking more about God and how He is big enough to handle our challenges.

Even though being married has its challenges, there are great opportunities to do the Lord’s work. For example: we can lead in giving the blessing at dinner time or we can lead in a devotional time. This blog was started because I wanted a way to document thoughts for my family about God’s principles and how to apply them in life.

Paul then goes into loving our neighbor. There is no need to flaunt our knowledge to the detriment of someone else. Instead build up others. Be interested in finding their strengths and thinking of ways for them to have success.

For Paul, the reward was giving time and resources to others. There was a freeing aspect in serving the Lord out of personal generosity as his faith expressed itself through love. Paul’s attitude was to be all things to all people in order to win them to Christ.

Paul used the principles taught by Christ to train spiritually and we can do the same. Each day, we can be excited like a team running onto a field before a football game. We can go into training to change lives, win people to Christ, and receive the everlasting reward that is beyond what we could ever imagine.

These are the same reasons for the “This Day with God” devotional. A daily devotional that internalizes His guiding principles and an instrument which pushes one to focus on Him in every activity throughout the day. In order to balance career, family, and devotion to the Lord, one must daily study His Word and seek the Lord’s will in prayer.





Feel free to respond with a short note or a comment about any of the questions above. Also, I welcome any other thoughts or ideas, favorite inspirational videos, photos, or favorite Bible verses. Just add them to the comments or to a Facebook page I’ve set up at this link: This Day With God.


Resources and Supplementary Helps Used in Posts

Adeney, Carol. This Morning with God: A Daily Study Guide to the Entire Bible. Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity, 1978. Print.

"Sermons." Sermons | FUMC Waco. N.p., n.d. Web.  <http://fumcwaco.org/resources/sermons/>.

"Bible." The Bible - The Word of God - ChristNotes. N.p., n.d. Web. 2017. <http://www.christianity.com/bible/>.

Nicholes, Lou. "Recent Commentaries." Family-Times.net - Devotional Commentary Index. N.p., n.d. Web. <http://www.family-times.net/commentary/>.


"BibleGateway." BibleGateway.com: A Searchable Online Bible in over 150 Versions and 50 Languages. N.p., n.d. Web. <https://www.biblegateway.com/>.

Thursday, October 4, 2018

Cut it Out


For the Word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. - Hebrews 4:12

Within the post “One Bad Apple Can Spoil the Whole Bunch” discussed is how Paul instructs the Corinthian church to expel a leader within the church because of sexual misconduct.

One thought brought out in the post is that many problems within our society today were initiated from the lax attitude of sexual immorality in the 1990’s. It took 20 years to manifest itself as a cancer in society with all the sexual harassment cases in Hollywood, the media, and in government leadership.

Like cancer, we must cut it out.  We must step ahead of hate, iniquity, and other corrupting influences in our society that keep us down; instead desire the authenticity, sincerity and certainty that God provides. Take inspiration from today’s song





Wednesday, September 12, 2018

Questions for Reflection for Study of 1 Corinthians 1-5

I want to take this time to thank all of you my readers. I’ve found this blog to be a great tool in my journey through the Bible and you, my readers are keeping me accountable to daily Bible reading and study. We live in a busy world with busy schedules and being able to share some thoughts about this journey with others across this world through the Internet is truly a blessing.

So far this year, the journey through God’s Word has taken us through the book of Romans and Proverbs. As the journey continues, I will turn to the book of 1 Corinthians. Paul writes this letter in response to questions the Christians at Corinth have asked and to the news he has received about their problems (divisions in the church, moral faults, etc).

The mission of this blog is to bring out ways to better apply God’s Word in our life at work, at home, and within our neighborhoods. The questions for reflection for the study of 1 Corinthians 1-5 below will help bring out some thoughts and ideas over the next few weeks.

The Lord speaks to us in various ways – visions, dreams, and life’s circumstances; even advice from others. Most of all, God speaks through the Bible. Thus, the main purpose of this blog is to study His Word with the intent to gain wisdom that we may apply in our own lives and also help others along the journey. 

The reading plan below will be used as I share over the next few posts. It’s important to have a plan. I’m thankful that Jesus is God’s plan for us and by accepting Him as Savior; we have taken the steps necessary to make this day with Him amazing!

Photo taken 06/04/2018 - Lake Hamilton near Hot Springs Arkansas.

Questions for Reflection

With what authority does Paul write to the Corinthian church? What spiritual character and resources of this church is Paul thankful for? What steps do you need to take to promote unity among Christians in your school, business, community, and church?

What are the two viewpoints which today’s passage produces? What is true wisdom? Its goal? Its relation to the Cross? Its endurance?

What do you learn in this passage about the work of the Holy Spirit? What is the content of Paul’s message? What is Paul’s purpose? How does what the Holy Spirit teach you affect your understanding of your purpose in life?

What do you learn here about adapting your message to the capacity of your listeners? What indicates the Corinthians’ lack of progress? What is your responsibility in building on the foundation?

How does Paul describe the apostles? What scriptural principles should you apply before you judge another person? How does Paul describe the kingdom of God? In what ways does your life manifest power?

How does Paul instruct the Corinthian church to the problem of sexual immorality? What should you do with any corrupting influence in your life? What needs to happen when a leader sins?

Feel free to respond with a short note or a comment about any of the questions above. Also, I welcome any other thoughts or ideas, favorite inspirational videos, photos, or favorite Bible verses. Just add them to the comments or to a Facebook page I’ve set up at this link: This Day With God.

Resources and Supplementary Helps Used in Posts

Adeney, Carol. This Morning with God: A Daily Study Guide to the Entire Bible. Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity, 1978. Print.

"Sermons." Sermons | FUMC Waco. N.p., n.d. Web.  <http://fumcwaco.org/resources/sermons/>.

"Bible." The Bible - The Word of God - ChristNotes. N.p., n.d. Web. 2017. <http://www.christianity.com/bible/>.

Nicholes, Lou. "Recent Commentaries." Family-Times.net - Devotional Commentary Index. N.p., n.d. Web. <http://www.family-times.net/commentary/>.


"BibleGateway." BibleGateway.com: A Searchable Online Bible in over 150 Versions and 50 Languages. N.p., n.d. Web. <https://www.biblegateway.com/>.


Wednesday, March 21, 2018

Taking in More Spiritual Food


Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance, perseverance, character, and character, hope. - Romans 5:3

Taking in more spiritual food and less junk food is a great idea for shedding a few pounds as brought out in the post “Ideas for Greater Discipline”.

Not only does this idea provide added physical benefits but also spiritual benefits. As pointed out in the song Stay by Jeremy Camp, remaining in the light produces perseverance, character, and hope.

This day with God my friend, never walk away but stay in the light and throw all burdens away.






Thursday, March 8, 2018

Advantage for Your Day


I can do everything through Him who gives me strength. – Philippians 4:13

In the post “Advice for Life”, highlighted is that being on God’s side gives a tremendous advantage. The scripture above and other memorized scriptures can be very useful when faced with pressure moments in life.

I once heard about a field goal kicker in football that repeated over and over in his mind scriptures like the one above before kicking a field goal. This gave him poise as he got set to perform the winning kick in the last seconds of the game. 

One thing about sports that is related in life is how we all compete against time. We all set priorities in the use of our time. As we plan out each day, two questions must be answered: What is it that needs to be done? What is most important?

The amazing thing to me is that efficiency is thought of highly in sports but not so much these days in government, organizations, and businesses. Each sports team competes and the coach puts players in a position where they can do the best for their team. In government and in some businesses, people seem to be put out of position. They are put in a position to fail and organizations are run in such a dysfunctional way.

We all win some and loose some but the most important thing is you give it your best. If God is with you through all of it, then you’ll end up victorious. Here’s a song to inspire us toward a winning day: Through All of It by Colton Dixon.





Thursday, February 15, 2018

Freedom to Improvise



But He knows the way that I take; when He has tested me, I will come forth as gold. - Job 23:10

As the post “There is Freedom in Wisdom” points out, good things happen if you listen to those with experience, follow instructions, and prepare. If plans don’t totally work out, wisdom gives you a sense of freedom to improvise and tweak the kinks.

Some of the greatest plays ever in the game of football happened when the initial plan didn’t work out. Think of a quarterback that goes back to pass only to be blitzed by the defensive team. He decides to run the ball away from the blitz for either a first down or even a touchdown.

It’s the same in the game of life. Take inspiration from today’s song Unfinished by Mandisa. Life is not easy as negatives blitz us from all sides and we all can get down or discouraged but God’s Work in us may not be done. If He started something good, just keep believing it and keep working it until He completes it.






Tuesday, January 16, 2018

Getting Along with Each Other


Why do you judge your brother? Or why do you show contempt for your brother? For we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ. - Romans 14:10

Getting along with each other is one of the toughest things. Every person thinks a little differently and has their own way of going forward but as in the post “One Common Thread that Binds”, we gain victory by being one in Christ

Christ is the one common thread that binds us. Be inspired by today’s song Losing by Tenth Avenue North and remember that it is the power of Christ that unifies us in what we believe, what we do, and how we live.




Tuesday, April 18, 2017

Ideas for Gaining Daily Victories


I can do everything through Him who gives me strength. – Philippians 4:13

The lesson as laid out in the post “The ONE Who Won” was that the Lord fights for you. With Him, you can do so much more. He prepares a path for you by driving out obstacles in your way so love the Lord your God and step ahead.  

Sometimes the greatest competition we face is within our own mind. We may have a major deadline at work or a major payment due. Our mind may keep telling us, “It’s too difficult … I can’t do this” but because of God we can have confidence to tell our mind, “Yes I can”.

One idea is to memorize scripture like the one at the top of this post when faced with pressure situations in life. Another idea may be to listen to music for inspiration. God has fought over the years for His people and He fights for you today.

The greatest historical victory ever was His Son Jesus Christ who died for all. Grace wins all the time to allow you to rise up to victory on a daily basis. Take a few minutes to be inspired by this song Grace Wins by Matthew West  because the victory is for all who belong to Christ Jesus.


Tuesday, April 11, 2017

Notes to Your Younger Self

The Lord gave Israel all the land He had sworn to give their ancestors, and they took possession of it and settled there. – Joshua 21:43

As brought out in the post “Follow Instructions”, God is continually requiring His people to follow instructions and when they follow, He is faithful to fulfill His promises just as in the scripture at the top of this post.

As His people, we sometimes get complacent and instead of continually seeking His excellence, we give in to the negatives promoted by the enemy. Everyone needs God's grace and once received, one can gain wisdom to live the way life is meant to be lived.

Take some time to look back on life and write notes to your younger self. Here’s a video to inspire: Dear Younger Me by MercyMe. Take these notes to not only help provide a brighter path for your own future but to share with others so their future path is much brighter too!




Friday, December 16, 2016

Meditation of My Heart

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

Going out in the backyard either at night before going to sleep or in the morning before sunrise with my dog Marlee, we can hear the sounds of a night. Marlee loves just lying in the grass, listening, and enjoying the cool breeze. I look up in the sky and see the stars and enjoy the amazement as God has painted another masterpiece to communicate His glory. The time in the back yard gives inspiration and hope; confidence that that God is with me and will be with me always.

In the post “More Precious Than Gold”, written about was just how precious God’s Word is and the need to share with others the precious insight that can be gained. Also mentioned was the exercise of memorizing scripture so it becomes deep-rooted into our heart and soul.  Another way to receive inspiration and hope is in music as in this video: Light Up the Sky – The Afters.





Thursday, December 8, 2016

Lifted up on Wings to Handle What Life Brings

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. – Ps 18:2

In sharing the post “Delivered from Enemies”, noted was how David faced difficulty but spread his wings in faith to be lifted to a new level as God fashioned a bright future for David.

We all face difficulties in life. I once read about actor Sylvester Stallone who not only was the lead actor but also wrote the script for all the “Rocky” and “Rambo” movies. Before hitting it big with the movie “Rocky”, Sylvester Stallone went through homelessness as he struggled to make ends meet as a writer and actor.

If going through a trial in your life or just having a down day, take inspiration from this video: Lift Me Up by The Afters.



Tuesday, December 6, 2016

Shadow of Your Wings

Keep me as the apple of your eye;
hide me in the shadow of your wings
from the wicked who are out to destroy me,
from my mortal enemies who surround me. –Psalm 17:8-9

As shared in the post “First Down”, David prays that God would help him in a distressful situation. Life had blocked David from gaining momentum just as life blocks our path at times. 

The lesson for us is to remain optimistic because with God, we are highly favored. We can overcome our enemies in life by taking in God's Word to fortify. Sometimes the greatest enemy we face is within our own mind. We may say stuff in our own mind like “It’s too difficult … I can’t do this”.

I heard a story one time about a field goal kicker in football who said he recites scripture in his mind when in a pressure situation like kicking the game winning field goal. A scripture like Philippians 4:13 “I can do everything through Him who gives me strength” and other memorized scriptures can be very useful when faced with pressure moments in life.

Lord, we pray today that you will protect us. That we will take in Your scripture to fortify us and prepare us for the challenges of life. The devil tries to break us in life but You never forsake us. We are thankful for songs like Savior’s Shadow by Blake Shelton because we gain confidence and inspiration to follow the Way. This day, fill our minds with thoughts like this one from the song: “Grace leads us to where we are free”. In Jesus name. Amen.



Tuesday, November 29, 2016

Greatest Reward



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

The greatest reward in life is Jesus in our heart. The post “Internalizing His Principles” describes how to obtain this great reward that allows us to fellowship with God throughout our day.

This day, believe that God has a great plan for you and He will set things up so everything will fall into place. It all starts with receiving a plan from Him through faithful, consistent, and powerful prayer. Here is a video poem to start you toward an amazing day: This Day with God.



Friday, September 23, 2016

Be Someone Who Chose the One Who Knows

He who walks with the wise grows wise, but a companion of fools suffers harm - Proverbs 12:20

As written about in the post, “Build on a Firm Foundation”, there are consequences when we are associated with those who have turned away from God. Instead, we should build on the firm foundation of His Word which allows us to accumulate knowledge and understanding over time. We should also consistently pray for advice and confidently do what is needed.

I remember one hot summer in July, my daughter heard that a convenience store was having a special on slurpee drinks. The Seven Eleven convenient stores were giving out free slurpees because the date was 7-11. I went into the store and there was a crowd lined up so I followed the crowd. Well, I got my slurpee but ended up getting the wrong size just like everyone else and having to pay for it.

When you follow the crowd, it doesn’t always end up like you want. Instead, let us follow the Lord because He knows what is best for us as described in today’s video: He Knows – Jeremy Camp.