Daily Word

But whatever gain I had, I counted as loss for the sake of Christ. Indeed, I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For His sake I have suffered the loss of all things and count them as rubbish, Philippians 3: 7-8. Paul freely discards all sources of self-confidence and personal profit for Christ here. The Greek word is more graphic; it means “refuse” and was once translated as “dung”. Paul flings away in disgust whatever interferes with “the surpassing knowing of Christ.” How different would your relationship with Christ be today if you were to thoroughly take account and rid yourself of all the unnecessary interference in “knowing Christ” more deeply?

Daily Word

Do all things without grumbling or questioning, that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, Philippians 2:14-15. The Philippians may have been guilty of grumbling against church leaders, as the Israelites did against Moses. Paul describes the quality of life required for “children of God”. To “shine as lights in the world”, in contrast to being crooked and twisted, yet offering up hope. In what area of your life do you find the most to grumble and question about? Perhaps today is the day to stop and shine instead?

Daily Word

Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure. Philippians 2:12-13. Regeneration is birth, sanctification is growth. ‘Sanctify” means to set apart to God, for His use. To work out your own salvation is recognizing that God is at work in the arena of your will and actions. Fear and trembling is simply awe and reverence rather than panic and alarm. How often do you really set yourself apart to God, walking in His Obedience in an effort of working out your own salvation?

Daily Word

Therefore God has highly exalted Him and bestowed on Him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee shall bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Philippians 2:9-11. Christ’s humility is His glory. Paul means that the utterance of the name “Jesus” is the signal that “every knee should bow” to offer Him worship and acclaim Him Lord. When was the last time you got a little weak in the knee’s upon hearing the name of Jesus, or has it just become way to common for you?

Weekend Quote 4.15.12

It easy to learn the doctrine of personal revival and victorious living; it is quite another thing to take our cross and plod on to the dark and bitter hill of self-renunciation. ~ A.W. Tozer

Weekend Quote

Every advance that we make for God and His cause must be made at our inconvenience. If it does not inconvenience us at all, there is no cross in it! If we have been able to reduce spirituality to a smooth pattern and it costs us nothing -no disturbance - no bother and no element of sacrifice in it - we are getting anywhere with God. ~ A.W. Tozer

Daily Word

Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. Philippians 2:5-7. Christ is truly human. He had to be completely human. At the same time, Paul makes a distinction between Christ and the other human beings. Unlike them, He has no sin. And regarding His divine nature He remains transcendent over created reality; He cannot cease to be a heavenly being even in His humiliation. It is a mindset of humbleness and servant hood we are to hold among ourselves. How does that apply in your daily walk with those around you?

Daily Word

Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. Philippians 2:3-4. Our pride makes us competitive by nature and tries to lift us above others, so promoting conflicts rather than harmony. By contrast, humility accepts a place of service, with concerns for the needs and interests of others. Love is essential for humility. While Christ is our supreme example of humility; He is first Lord and Savior. What changes will you make to walk in humility starting today…and continued every day?

Daily Word

So if there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort from love, any participation in the spirit, any affection and sympathy, complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind. 2 Philippians 2:1-2. To follow Christ’s example, we must first be in Christ. In our union with the savior we find encouragement to pursue unity with each other. How does unity apply in your life; are you of “the same” more towards the world or Christ?

Daily Word

Only let your manner of life be worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you or am absent, I may hear of you that you are standing firm in one spirit, with one mind striving side by side for the faith of the gospel, Philippians 1:27. Paul not only appeals to the unity among believers; but he urges them not to break under the pressure of opposition; to excerpt pressure of their own by proclaiming the gospel they believe in and living worthy of it. What does it mean to you to live “worthy of the gospel”, and how often do you stand firm in your beliefs?

Daily Word

For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. If I am to live in the flesh, that means fruitful labor for me. Yet which shall I choose I cannot tell. Philippians 1:21-22. Christ is Paul’s reason for being. Paul recognizes that death will not sever his union with Christ; rather it will bring him into a deeper experience of that union. What does it mean to “live as Christ” to you? How different would your daily walk be and would it impact those around you?

Weekend Quote from 4.8.12

It takes real faith to begin to live the life of heaven while still upon the earth; for this requires that we rise above the law of moral gravitation and bring to our everyday living the high wisdom of God. And since wisdom is contrary to that of the world, conflict is bound to result. This, however, is a small price to pay for the inestimable privilege of following Christ. ~ A.W. Tozer

Weekend Quote

In coming to Christ we do not bring our old life up into a higher plane; we leave it at the cross. The corn of wheat must fall into the ground and die. ~ A. W. Tozer

Daily Word

For I know that through your prayers and the help of the Spirit of Christ this will turn out for my deliverance, as it is my eager expectation and hope that I will not be at all ashamed, but that with full courage now as always Christ will be honored in my body, weather by life or by death. Philippians 1:19-20. Paul expects to be released from prison, but cannot be certain of it. God will deliver him through His appointed agencies, both human and divine. Paul’s passion is neither to live nor to die, but to see Christ magnified whatever happens. How would the circumstances change in your life if you took the same approach, and mind set as Paul?

Daily Word

And most of the brothers, having become confident in the Lord by my imprisonment, are much more bold to speak the word without fear. Philippians 1:14. While we are not imprisoned physically like Paul; each of us are equally strengthened and encouraged by the Lord to proclaim the gospel fearlessly. If even a quarter of all those whom filled the churches throughout midweek services and on Sunday mornings lived a lifestyle so public in their beliefs in Christ, and the promises given in His word. How much more could we impact our world? What is lacking in your confidence that prevents you from speaking His word without fear?

Daily Word

I want you to know brothers, that what has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel, so that it has become known throughout the whole imperial guard and to all the rest that my imprisonment is for Christ. Philippians 1:12. The Word is clear that each of us will face tests and trials throughout our life time. While each serves its own purpose building faith, character etc. We more often than not become so focused on ourselves that we fail to recognize the opportunity that lies within to advance the gospel. When the circumstances of life attempt to imprison you today will you advance or hinder the gospel?

Daily Word

And it is my prayer that your love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment, so that you may approve what is excellent, and so be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God. Philippians 1:9-10. The absence of love shows that supposed knowledge is worthless, and love is itself knowledge of the deepest kind. As this is my prayer for you today…Pray this also for others in your life…

Weekend Quote

To try to find a common ground between the message of the cross and man’s fallen reason is to try the impossible, and if persisted in must result in an impaired reason, a meaningless cross and a powerless Christianity. ~ A. W. Tozer

Weekend Quote

Our cross will be determined by whatever pain and suffering and trouble which will yet come to us because of our obedience to the will of God. ~ A.W. Tozer

Daily Word

And I am sure if this, that He who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ. Philippians 1:6. Perseverance means continued adherence to a belief despite discouragement and opposition. Those who pursue holiness and love of neighbor and so show themselves to have been regenerated by God are entitled to believe themselves secure in Christ. Belief in perseverance properly understood does not lead to careless living and arrogant presumption. Everyday provides you opportunity to persevere in your faith, be reminded that the small challenges strengthen you for the greater challenges to come.

Daily Word

But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory both now and to the day of eternity. Amen. 2 Peter 3:18. Today we conclude in the 2 letter of Peter. Knowledge is the ever-deepening experience of Christ and understanding of His truth that should characterize the entire course of your life as a true believer, as opposed to the hollow, esoteric “knowledge” of the false teachers. What is it in your life that most characterizes you? Do those around you see enough Christ in and through you to recognize something different than others who simply call themselves Christians?

Daily Word

You therefore, beloved, knowing beforehand, take care that you are not carried away with the error of lawless people and lose your own stability. 2 Peter 3:17. Most of this letter was written to Christians warning against false teachers, characterized as people who ignore all moral restraints. It’s not that true believers can lose their salvation, but a warning to them of their own weakness and the dangers that surround them, to motivate them to watchfulness and growth in Godly living. Do the relationships in your life encourage Godly living or stretch your moral restraints?

Daily Word

Therefore, beloved, since you are waiting for these, be diligent to be found by him without spot or blemish, and at peace. 2 Peter 3:14. The previous verse reminds us of the promises’ to come of heaven. We are encouraged here, to walk in obedience so not to bring any reproach upon ourselves and to be at peace in every aspect of our lives. It is only through the cleansing blood of Christ, and obedience to the word applied to our lives that will remove both spot and blemish from God’s sight upon us. How diligent is your relationship and walk with Him?

Daily Word - 3.26.12

But according to His promise we are waiting for new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells. 2 Peter 3:13. Some believe that the new universe will be an entirely new world with no connection with the old. Scripture indicates that a transfiguration of the old world is in view, like the way our old bodies will be transfigurations of the old. Everything is new which indicates the thoroughness of transfiguration, but the result is redemption and not just annihilation of the old. Are you “presently minded” or “eternity minded” about your future?

Weekend Quote

God impoverishes only to make rich, becoming in secret Himself the substitute for all that He takes away from our soul. ~Jeanne Guyan

Weekend Quote

O God, show me thy glory, I pray thee, that so I may know Thee indeed. Begin in mercy a new work of love within me. Say to my soul. “Rise up, my love, my fair one, and come away.” Then give me grace to rise and follow Thee up from this misty lowland where I have wondered so long. In Jesus’ name. Amen. ~ Edythe Draper

Daily Word

Since all these things are thus to be dissolved, what sort of people ought you to be in lives of holiness and Godliness, waiting for and hastening the coming of the day of God, because of which the heavens will be set on fire and dissolved, and the heavenly bodies well melt as they burn. 3 Peter 3:11-12. The time of Christ’s coming is determined by the sovereign counsel of God, but it does not take place without reference to other events. That God’s delay is merciful indicates that the evangelization of the elect is one relevant factor. Other factors include are prayer, and obedience. Be encouraged here as your actions matter!

Daily Word

But do not over look this one fact, beloved, that with the Lord one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day. The Lord is not slow to fulfill His promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance. 2 Peter 3:8-9. This passage (vs.8) is taken from Psalm 90:4…Reminding us that God is not subject to time, but is its creator. The repentance in view, for the sake of which God delays judgment, is that of God’s people rather than the world at large. Slow down a bit today and be reminded that God still has more to accomplish in and through you. How long has it been since you’ve been cleansed and refreshed from those burdens of sin that can only come about through a time of repentance before the Father?

Daily Word

For it would have been better for them never to have known the way of righteousness than after knowing it to turn back from the holy commandment delivered to them. What the true proverb says has happened to them: “The dog returns to his own vomit, and the sow, after washing herself, returns to wallow in the mire.” 2 Peter 2:20-22. Be it prophet, teacher, or convert when their behavior returns to their old sinful way of life it shows their knowledge of Christ and the way of righteousness was only superficial, and their conversion illusory. Those who are truly regenerate will persevere in the faith. Having been washed clean what area in your life are you returning to wallow in?

Daily Word

These are waterless springs and mists driven by a storm. For them the gloom of utter darkness has been reserved. For they speak loud boasts of folly, they entice by sensual passions of the flesh those who are barley escaping from those who live in error. 2 Peter 2: 17-18. Just as water sustains physical life, so true spiritual teaching nourishes spiritual life. A dry well will only disappoint the thirsty, like a false teacher will only deceive and disappoint the student. Those who never search the word for themselves like new converts fall prey to false teachers. Are you deceived by the glamorous well and the well kept bucket only to find yourself dehydrated and thirsty in life?

Daily Word

For if God did not spare angels when they sinned, but cast them into hell and committed them to chains of gloomy darkness to be kept apart until the judgment; if He did not spare the ancient world, but preserved Noah, a herald of righteousness, with seven others, when He brought a flood upon the ungodly; 2 Peter 24-5. We live today as if the Judgment of God does not or will not exist, and many want to blanket everything with the “love of Christ” as if that will make everything just go away. However, the judgment of God will come and many who are deceived today will learn the fate of the ungodly as told of history past.

Weekend Quote

God is not satisfied until there exists between Him and His people a relaxed informality that requires no artificial stimulation. The friend of God may sit in His presence for long periods in silence. Complete trust needs no words of assurance. ~ A.W. Tozer

Daily Word

And many will follow their sensuality, and because of them the way of the truth will be blasphemed. And in their greed they will exploit you with false words. Their condemnation from long ago is idle, and their destruction is not asleep. 2 Peter 2:2-3. Immoral behaviors by those who claim to be Christians give Christianity a bad name among believers. Christians are called to exemplary behavior so that the cause of the gospel will not be hindered. Is your life promoting or hindering the cause of the gospel?

Daily Word

And we have something more sure, the prophetic word, to which you will do well to pay attention as to a lamp shinning in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts, 1 Peter 1:19. Peter is saying that the prophetic word of scripture is a more solid proof than even the experience of witnessing the transfiguration (based on vs.18). The Word is the lamp that brings light into the darkness that continues in our flesh. We must diligently pay attention to the “sure prophetic” word until that day when it will be superseded by the full revelation of Christ’s return. How diligent are you keeping applying the word in your life?

Daily Word

For we did not follow cleverly devised myths when we made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but we were eyewitnesses of His majesty, 2 Peter 1:16. Interestingly the word myth(s) is always used negatively in the New Testament. Today it could be used much the same way. If churches relied more on the power and coming of Christ than they do on entertaining people with all the worldly bells and whistles that are used to get people in the doors. Maybe we would have a greater impact in both our communities, and the world as a whole.

Daily Word

Therefore, brothers, be all the more diligent to make your calling and election sure, for if you practice these qualities you will never fall. 2 Peter1:10. God’s choice of the elect is certain regardless of how you feel. His Assurance comes through the Holy Spirit’s work in your life. His promise of salvation is to those who have a genuine, preserving faith. True faith preservers to the end and will bear fruit. Looking back over the virtues previously posted which one(s) are you failing to bear fruit from?

Weekend Quote

There are two reasons for loving God: no one is more worthy of our love, and no one can return more in response to our love. ~ Bernard Clairvaux

Weekend Quote

We do not need to go ‘somewhere” to find God, any more than the fish needs to soar to find the ocean or the eagle to plunge to find the air. ~ Rufus Jones

Daily Word

For if these qualities are yours and increasing, they keep you from being in-effective and unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 1 Peter 1:7. If we fail to recognize the significance of these virtues listed in verses 4-7, and how important each one plays out building upon the other. Our relationship with Christ will never amount to much more than that of being a simple acquaintance and our Christian walk will lack the effectiveness and fruit which demonstrates our salvation. Which virtue will you look deepest at and build upon today?

Daily Word

For this reason, make every effort to supplement your faith with virtue, and virtue with knowledge, and Knowledge with self-control, and self-control with steadfastness, and steadfastness with Godliness, and Godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love. 2 Peter 1:4-7. We are to demonstrate towards one another the family affection among believers as brothers and sisters in God’s family. Faith is the starting point in a Christian’s life and love is the preeminent fruit of the Christians life. Notice how these virtues begin and end.

Daily Word

For this reason, make every effort to supplement your faith with virtue, and virtue with knowledge, and Knowledge with self-control, and self-control with steadfastness, and steadfastness with Godliness. 2 Peter 2:5, 6. Knowledge is useless to us if we lack the wisdom to its application. To stand unwavering often times requires self-control. Again…obedience is the glue here to which we bind these virtues together that make Godliness possible in our lives. In what area do you need to apply a little more glue to today?

Daily Word

For this reason, make every effort to supplement your faith with virtue, and virtue with knowledge, 2 Peter 2:5. Too many folks today have been deceived into thinking that a little prayer prayed, and showing up to a church once a week qualifies them as Christian. Moving forward from the previous two scriptures we see that we must add MORAL EXCELLENCE to supplement our faith, and with that moral excellence we are to continually add knowledge. It is in our obedience through knowledge that we are able to stand in His righteousness, and walk in moral excellence. How and what will you apply to your faith today?

Daily Word

By which He has granted to us His precious and very great promises, so that through them you may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped from the corruption that is in the world because of sinful desire. 2 Peter1:4. We are not absorbed into deity, and we do not become divine. However, we have received the Holy Spirit and are sons of God. Therefore we are being conformed to the likeness of Christ and the image of God in us is being renewed in true righteousness. How much effort are you applying to your escape?

Weekend Quote

If you have no joy in your religion, there is a leak in your Christianity somewhere. ~ Billy Sunday

Weekend Quote

Repentance and faith are our work. But we will not repent and believe unless God does His work to overcome our hard and rebellious hearts. This divine work is called regeneration. Our work is called conversion. ~ John Piper

Daily Word

His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and Godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us to His glory and excellence, 2 Peter 1:3. Knowledge of Him doesn’t come by way of “cheap faith”, and “surface Christianity” with cute little “pick me up” quotes that sound biblical but aren’t, or by listening to someone else teach the Word once a week. Those things that pertain to life and Godliness are found in His written Word for you to search out and apply…Who sets the standard of glory and excellence in your life…You or Christ?

Daily Word

May Grace and peace be multiplied in you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord. 2 Peter 1:2. The knowledge of God and Jesus are connected because God is known savingly only in and through Jesus Christ. It appears more often than not that people today are more interested in experience and feelings than truth and obedience. “New Seasons” seem to come and go so fast the weather channel couldn’t even keep up. Knowledge of God and of Jesus can only be obtained through intimate fellowship. Dig a little deeper into His Word; pray a little longer today that His grace and peace be multiplied in you!

Daily Word

And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to His eternal glory in Christ, will Himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you. 1 Peter 5:10. No matter what the occasion or need God bestows us help and strength that’s more than sufficient. We must remember that it is through our union with Christ that all blessings come, and His ultimate plan is to bring us to glory. If you’re so busy reflecting on the suffering…how can you recognize His restoration, confirmation, added strength, or what has been established in you?

From 2.29.12

Daily Word

Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world. 1 Peter 5:8-9. I believe sober-minded here has more to do with not being caught up in the worldly things & the flesh which clouds your mind as opposed to strong drink. The lion is a picture of the strength and destructiveness of the enemy. It’s not just having faith…but standing firm in that faith that brings about the resistance to overcome. Today is a good day to make your stand!

Daily Word

From 2.27.12
Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so at the proper time He may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on Him, because He cares for you. 1 Peter 5:6. More often than we would like to recognize or admit we step out on our own seeking to make things happen on our behalf. We forget that it’s in His time and not ours. Humbleness is the brake pad that that slows our fleshly wants and keeps us under the mighty hand of God. Casting your anxieties upon Him clears the cloudiness the blocks your view of Him.

Weekend Quote

Upon a life a life I did not live, upon a death I did not die; another’s death, I stake my whole eternity. ~ Horatius Bonar

Weekend Quote

So in love is Christ with holiness that He will buy it with His blood for us. ~ John Flavel

Daily Word

Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in that name. For it is time for judgment to begin in the household of God; and if it begins with us, what will be the outcome for those who do not obey the gospel of God? And “If the righteous is scarcely saved, what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?” 1 Peter 4:16-18. Many claim to be Christian but few seem to walk boldly enough to suffer any hostilities from the world. There is divine sovereignty over the suffering of God’s people, and this judgment may have a purpose of purification. The way through it is hard discipline walking in His obedience. How bold will you be today?

Daily Word

Beloved do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice in so far as you share Christ’s sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when His glory is revealed. 1 Peter 4:12. Clearly, the point of every trial is to test you. It’s not a matter of if but when. Those around you are watching you constantly to see how your faith is going to play out revealing the depth of your faith. How often do you recognize His glory revealed in your trial?

Daily Word

Now who is there to harm you if you are zealous for what is good? But even if you should suffer for righteousness sake, you will be blessed. 1 Peter3:13. There must standout a significant difference among those who walk in Christ and those who do not; even when doing so may bring about some form of ridicule, or personal suffering. The promise is clear here…you will be blessed. Any blessing from God far outweighs anything man can bring upon you.

Daily Word

For “whoever desires to love life and see good days, let him keep his tongue from evil and his lips from speaking deceit; let him turn away from evil and do good; let him speak peace and pursue it. For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and his ears are open to their prayer. But the face of the Lord is against those who do evil. ! Peter 3:10-12. Maybe the struggles you face in life today have less to do with trials and tribulations, and more to do with the consequences of failing to live righteous. How often do we confuse our trials with our consequences?

Daily Word

Finally, all of you, “have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind. Do not repay evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary, bless, for this you were called, that you may obtain a blessing. 1 Peter 3:8-9. There is a parallel teaching in Rom. 12:9-21. We are reminded not to retaliate in response to persecution, but instead to “bless” those who persecute us. Your blessing may take the form of a simple prayer. Sometimes we bring persecution on ourselves by failing to walk in obedience as instructed through the Word. How will you live the higher ground today no matter what may come your way?

Daily Word

He himself bore our sins in His body on a tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By His wounds you have been healed. 1 Peter 2:24. Christ suffered the curse of sin, accepting the punishment our sins deserved and provided forgiveness and freedom. It is often and equally stated that “Christ came to take away our sin”, and that “we sin daily.” If the first statement were correct than the second statement would be incorrect. However, the first statement is incorrect leaving the second statement correct. Christ took away the punishment our sin deserved and provided the freedom to live in the righteousness of Christ through the obedience of His Word restoring our relationship with a Holy God. The misunderstanding of these statements provides many the excuses to deny their walk in sin.

Daily Word

For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow His steps. He committed no sin, neither was deceit found in His mouth. 1 Peter 21-22. Just as we are united with Christ in his resurrection so we are united in His sufferings. In His Word we are given the pattern by which we as Christians are to understand our own lives. Suffering takes on many forms in our daily lives never the less how we respond is of greater value than the inconvenience or the struggles brought about through our suffering. How will you respond in your season of suffering this day?

Daily Word

For this is the will of God, that by doing good you should put to silence the ignorance of foolish people. Live as people who are free, not using your freedom as a cover-up for evil, but living as servants to God. 1 Peter 2 15-16. The precursor to this scripture was about being in submission to every human institution. Often times it is our own rebellion, pride, selfishness that creates the bondage in our lives and hinders our freedom in Christ. We move from one church, job, or even relationship to the next only to fall farther from the freedom that is in Christ; only to be drawn in to a compromised walk that excuses sin in our lives. Obedience to His Word builds the foundation to submission in every aspect of our lives. Where can submission bring freedom in your life today?

Daily Word

Beloved, I urge you as sojourners and exiles to abstain from passions of the flesh, which wage war against your soul. Keep your conduct among the gentiles honorable, so that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day of visitation. 1 Peter 2:11-12. We who have become children of God are nothing more than exiles and sojourners on this earth. We must learn to live in obedience to God’s Word, and stop using “common grace” as the carpet of excuse upon which we sweep our sin under and deceive ourselves that God is pleased with us. There is nothing honorable in that. How will you choose to battle in the war against your soul today?

Daily Word

And “A stone of Stumbling, and a rock of offence”. They stumble because they disobey the Word, as they were destined to do. But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for His own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light. 1 Peter 2:8-9. This teaches us divine sovereignty and human responsibility.. People are condemned (stumble) because they disobey. “But you” marks a sharp contrast between the destiny of the believer from the unbeliever. What does your walk proclaim…Darkness or marvelous light?

Weekend Quote

It is less injury to Him to deny His being, than to deny the purity of it; the one makes Him no God, the other a deformed, unlovely, and detestable God…He that saith God is not holy speaks much worse than he that saith there is no God at all. ~ Stephen Chanock

Daily Word

I went on with my eager pursuit after more holiness and conformity to Christ. The heaven I desired was a heaven of holiness. ~ Jonathan Edwards

Daily Word

As you come to Him, a living stone rejected by men but in the sight of God chosen and precious, you yourselves like living stones are being built up as a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. 1 Peter 2:4- 5. Symbolism is rich here with “living stones”, “spiritual house”, and “holy priesthood” referring to Old Testament background. While “Coming” to Christ includes initial repentance and faith, it implies a continual drawing near as well. Every believer is a priest in the sense of having equal and immediate access to God & serving Him personally. What will you sacrifice to God today?

Daily Word

So put away all malice and all deceit and hypocrisy and envy and all slander. Like new born infants, long for the pure spiritual milk, that by it you may grow up into salvation – if indeed you have tested that the Lord is good. 1 peter 2:1-3. As followers of Christ we must have a hunger for spiritual food as an infant has for its mother’s milk. We must strive to grow in our understanding of His Word, in our Faith, and in our obedience lived out according to the Word. Examine yourselves today and if you lack growth in any of these areas…Maybe it’s time to putdown the bottle and pick up a fork...

Daily Word

As obedient children, do not be conformed to the passions of your former ignorance, but as He who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, since it is written, “You shall be holy, for I am holy.” 1 Peter 1:14-16. Contrary to popular belief; as Christians our standard of and motivation for holiness is the absolute moral perfection of God himself. Believing in and obeying the absolute truth of God’s word is the only hope you have against former passions and ignorance.

Daily Word

In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, so that the test genuineness 0f your faith- more precious than gold that parishes though it is tested by fire- may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. 1 Peter 1:6, 7. The trials you experience are always sent in the right measure to strengthen your faith to distinguish genuine faith from superficial profession. The ultimate goal of trials is the reward of glorification. What will today’s trial(s) reflect in your walk?

Daily Word

To an in heritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, who by God’s power are being guarded through faith for salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. 1 Peter 1:4-5. You are an heir to God, and co-heir with Christ. Your inheritance is called “salvation.” Faith is a gift, but you are still responsible for exercising you’re faith, or steadfast trust, in spiritual battle. The strength of God’s protection (guarded) signifies the vigilant defense of a fortress. Do you recognize the spiritual battles in your life, and how will you exercise you’re faith today?

Weekend Quote

This righteousness is the righteousness of God and all together independent of any obedience of man to law, more or less. As the righteousness of God is perfect fulfillment which the law demands, it is evidently impossible that any other righteousness or obedience can be added to it or mixed with it. ~ Robert Haldane

Weekend Quote

Every time we sin, we doing something that God hates. We need to cultivate in our own hearts that same hatred for sin that God has. ~ Jerry Bridges

Daily Word

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to His great mercy, He has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. 1 Peter 1:3. Salvation is based entirely on God’s loving initiative. As Followers of Christ our hope is to be “living”; that is to be confident in the future blessings based on fact and promises given through the Word. Far too many walk in uncertainty and wishful thinking which is, an expression of no real hope is at all. How will the expression of your hope demonstrate in your life today?

Daily Word

And the prayer of faith will save the one who is sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven. James 5:15.This verse is classic proof text for the institution of the Roman Catholic sacrament of extreme unction. Extreme unction is a healing rite that has become to be known as “last rites” in preparation for death. There is no special “prayer of faith” that has healing power. We are to pray for healing, believe in faith, and trust in God that his will be done. Repentance brings forgiveness of sins not a healing prayer. Intercede for the sick, but share the gospel for the soul.

Daily Word

Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded. James 4:7-8. God is not simply one whom you turn to in times of your need. To submit requires a willing act of accepting the authority of God. To draw near to Him is actively pursuing relationship with Him, and as promised He in return will draw near to us. Although Satan is powerful he is not invincible. He flees from saints wearing the armor of God. Do filthy hands, a stained heart and double mindedness prevent you from your pursuit?

Daily Word

But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere. And a harvest of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace. James 3:17-18. This is polar opposite of selfish ambition. Wisdom that is from God reflects the purity of God Himself. This is what should identify each of us as followers of Christ rather than the bumper sticker, jewelry, or t-shirt…

Daily Word

But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast and be false to truth. This is not the wisdom that comes down from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every vile practice. James 3:12-16. Envy and covetousness poison the spirit and walk hand in hand with self-centered and self-serving ambition. The wisdom of the flesh reflects the deception of Satan and is foolishness in the sight of God. What is your hearts ambition seeking today…the flesh or the Spirit?

Weekend Quote

But blessed be His name. That which His Holiness demanded His grace has provided in Jesus Christ our Lord. ~ A.W. Pink

Weekend Quote

No one can attain any degree of holiness without God working in his life, but just as surely no one will attain it without effort on his part. ~ Jerry Bridges

Daily Word

Who is wise in understanding among you? By his good conduct let him show his works in meekness of wisdom. James 3:13. Just as we are to demonstrate our faith through works, it is equally as important to demonstrate our wisdom through Godly living. Wisdom demonstrates a gentle and humble spirit. As arrogance and foolishness walk side by side, so does humility and wisdom. How will you walk today?

Daily Word

For we all stumble in many ways. And if anyone does not stumble in what he says, he is a perfect man, able also to bridle his whole body. James 3:2. James exemplified the tongue as being representative of our depravity and pure wretchedness. No matter how hard we try to look good and put a front on before others. It is out of our heart the mouth speaketh revealing our hearts sinful condition.

Daily Word

You see that a person is justified by works and not by faith alone. James 2:24. You cannot prove to be justified by a simple profession of faith or by faith the stands alone. You can only prove to be just by what you do. There is nothing that you can do (works) that ultimately will bring you justification in God’s eyes. Only the actions of Christ on the cross can provide that kind of justification. It is by trusting in Christ alone that we can be made righteous in Christ. Our actions will then and only then will testify to our faith.

Daily Word

You believe that God is one; you do well. Even the demons believe – and shudder! James 2:19. It’s seems today that most everyone claims to be Christian. To believe there is a God is mere mental assertion. To believe “in” God requires personal trust, faith, obedience, and submission…to GOD.

Weekend Quote

The holiness of God is not to be conceived of as one attribute among others; it is, rather, a general term representing the conception of His consummate perfection and total glory. It is His infinite moral perfection crowning His infinite intelligence and power. ~ A.A. Hodge

Weekend Quote

God works in us and with us, not against us or without us ~ John Owen

Daily Word

For whoever keeps the whole law but fails in one point has become accountable for all of it. James 2:10. There are no levels to sin. Some sins maybe more abhorrent than others but sin is sin period, and regardless of the sin. We are still committing it against the lawgiver who is deeply grieved. Neither, is there any variance in Christ’s grief to our sin. Often times we seem to forget oe ignore that...

Daily Word

If you really fulfill the royal law according to the scripture, “you shall love your neighbor as yourself,” you are doing well. But if you show partiality, you are committing sin and are convicted by the law as transgressors’. James 2:8-9. The ability to look deeply within yourself and truly see in you what God sees is the maturity in your Christian walk to honestly love your neighbor as yourself. It would seem often times that most people fail to love themselves.

Daily Word

My brothers, show no partiality as you hold the faith in our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of Glory. James 2:1. The man behind the pulpit, or whose voice you hear on the radio, the man you watch on TV is simply just a man. No different than the one sitting next to you in service, the Christian working the check stand, or the guy pushing the cart cause he’s lost everything he owned. In the light of Christ’s divine glory it is foolish to show favoritism based on inferior levels of human glory.

Daily Word

But the one who looks into the perfect law, the law of liberty, and perseveres, being no hearer who forgets but a doer who acts, he will be blessed in his doing. James 1:25. The law of liberty is that which has set you free. Your active obedience to the Word drives you to be a doer making your life blessed while simultaneously being a blessing to others.

Weekend Quote

Holiness in the believer is nothing less than conformity to the moral character of God. ~ Jerry Bridges

Daily Word

But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. For if anyone is hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who looks intently at his natural face in a mirror. For he looks at himself and goes away and at once forgets what he was like. James 1:22, 23. A sad reality of today is that many step through the doors of their church and hear the word, and then live throughout the week forgetting what they were like on Sunday.

Daily Word

Therefore put away all filthiness and rampant wickedness and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls. Be doers of the word and not hearers’ only, deceiving yourselves. James 1:21, 22. There are many reasons people attend church today and often times the least them is to glorify and honor God. To do anything less than that is wickedness. True hearing of the word must lead to Godly action throughout the other six days a week.

Daily Word

Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger, for the anger of man does not produce righteousness. James 1:19, 20. It is the person whom intently listens to both the Word of truth, and listens to others regardless of what the situation might be rather than being quick to speak that demonstrates Godliness.

Daily Word

But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire. Then desire when it has conceived gives birth to sin, and sin when it is fully grown brings forth death. James 1:15-16. Taking responsibility for yourself and walking in maturity of Christ likeness is to recognize exactly what you allow to feed you’re desires. No one but you can prevent the process of being lured and enticed.

Weekend Quote

He hideth our unrighteousness with His righteousness, He covereth our disobedience with His obedience, He shadoweth our death with His death that the wrath of God cannot find us. ~ Henry Smith

Weekend Quote

For that person must not suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways. James 1:7. Some scholars believe Paul coined the phrase “double-minded”. When we doubt the promises of God or doubt His word we are “double-minded”. Worldly wisdom and Spiritual wisdom do not coincide as doubt is produced from the worldly side and leaves you unstable in every area of your life.

Daily Word

But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for the one who doubt’s is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind. James 1:6. This verse continues along with yesterdays scripture on wisdom. However, it is fitting under every circumstance that we bring before the Father. How much does doubt permeate throughout your daily lives? Perhaps your daily life would feel less wind tossed if you built a stronger foundation in His Word to strengthen your trust and faith in God.

Daily Word

If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him. James 1:5. Often times we seek knowledge rather than wisdom. Knowledge gives insight…Wisdom gives us proper application. To be wise in biblical terms is to know and understand godliness, to do what is pleasing to God. Only God is the true source of wisdom, and grants it to those who sincerely seek it from Him.

Daily Word

Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. James 1:2…If you walk through every trial confident in God’s sovereignty and knowing trials are designed by God for a purpose…as tests of faith given to develop your perseverance; you will learn that perseverance will produce maturity in your Christian Character.

Daily Word

For our gospel came not to you in word only, but also power, and in the Holy Spirit, and in much assurance; as you know what manner of men we were among you for your sake. 1 Thessalonians 1:5. When an unbeliever asks you for proof you have it. Having repented and trusted Christ you have experienced the power of the gospel. You have been transformed and given a new heart and new desires; which gives you “much assurance.” What manner of man are you among others?

Weekend Quote

For God does not want to save us by our own but by an extraneous righteous, one that does not originate in ourselves but comes to us from beyond ourselves, which does not arise on earth but comes from heaven. ~ Martin Luther