Weekend Quote (Sat)

Taking up a cross and dying to myself sounds more like torture. We think that such a decision would make us miserable. Is that what it means to follow Jesus? We wake up every morning and commit to misery. But when we die to ourselves and completely surrender to Him, there is a surprising side effect to dying; we discover true life. In a twist of irony, we find that giving up our lives gives us the life we so desperately wanted all along. ~ Kyle Idleman

Daily Word

O Lord my God, if I have done this, if there is any wrong in my hands, if I have repaid my friend with evil or plundered my enemy without cause, let the enemy pursue my soul and over take it, and let him trample my life ;to the ground and lay my glory in the dust. Psalm 7:3-5. Claim of innocence. These verses make it clear that this psalm is for those cases in which the danger stems from the malice of the persecutors, and not from the wrong doing of the person in trouble. There is an implicit warning to those who commit the evils listed here- that they may not use this psalm to ask for God’s help in their troubles. When you pray do you ever use the scriptures in prayer, and how deep do you dig into those that you use? When was the last time you searched through the Palms…

Daily Word

O Lord my God, in you do I take refuge; save me from all my pursuers and deliver me, lest like a lion they tear my soul apart, rending it to pieces, with none to deliver. Psalm 7:1-2. This psalm is another lament from David. The title refers to an otherwise unknown incident in his life when a man of Benjamin (the tribe of Saul) slandered David. The psalm provides a vehicle by which those unfairly criticized and persecuted may call to God for help. In the face of desperate circumstances, the first words express trust (my God, refuge), leading to the specific request. When you turn for help in your time of need is it God you turn to first, and when you turn to God are you quick to cry for help or do you express first your trust and faith in who he is?

Daily Word

Turn, O Lord, deliver my life; save me for the sake of your steadfast love. For in death there is no remembrance of you; in Sheol who will give you praise? Psalm 6:4-6. Here the psalmist thinks the Lord has turned from him. The word translated “steadfast” (the sake of your steadfast love) indicates how devotedly God binds Himself t His people by His covenant. A similar statement is expressed in Psalm 30:9 (No remembrance). This word (Sheol) is found most often in poetic passages that revel the thoughts and fears of the living, but are not presentations of a doctrine of resurrection or of the intermediate state. Again, be reminded that this psalm is a plea for mercy. Mediate on each word, and process this psalm as an example of deep prayer unto God…When was the last time you turned to God in such manner?

Daily word

O Lord, rebuke me not in your anger, nor discipline me in your wrath. Be gracious to me, O Lord, for I am languishing; heal me, O Lord, for my bones are troubled. My soul also is greatly troubled. But you, O Lord---how long? Psalm 6:1-3. This psalm is an individual lament from David. It is especially suited to one whose hard circumstances have led him to see his sins and to repent of them. The psalmist begs the Lord to refrain from verbal and physical punishment (rebuke…discipline). Though God disciplines His people, it is for correction and not destruction. The psalmist experiences suffering, probably a serious illness (I am languishing….my bones are troubled). Some take the language as figurative for spiritual distress. The psalmist boldly asks how long God will permit his suffering to continue. He desperately seeks relief from the One who is able to give it. If you haven’t begun already…begin today to look at the heart of the words as we walk through the psalms. Looking within himself, acknowledging his own place, then immediately turning the one who is able to bring help and healing. A great example of both faith and trust!

Daily Word

Make them bear their guilt. O God; let then fall by their own counsels; because of the abundance of their transgressions cast them out, for they have rebelled against you. But let all who take refuge in you rejoice; let them ever sing for joy, and spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may exult you. For you bless the righteous, O Lord; you cover him with favor as with a shield. Psalms 5:10-12. The psalmist calls upon God to punish the wicked (let them fall by their own counsel) because they are guilty. Sin often brings its own retributive consequences. Often times we blame everything under the sun for the negative circumstances in our lives; seeking God to step in and save us from our woes and mishaps. We rarely look within ourselves to search out our own sin which may have brought about the retributive consequence of which we are walking through. Today own your part, repent, rejoice, exalt Him…and walk in His favor as covers you as with a shield!

Weekend Quote (Sun)

God is an infinite circle whose center is everywhere and whose circumference is nowhere. ~ Saint Augustine of Hippo

Weekend Quote (Sat)

We are saved by God’s grace when we believe in Jesus and put our faith in Him, but biblical belief is more than just something we confess with our mouths; it’s something we confess with our lives. ~ Kyle Idleman

Daily Word

But I, through the abundance of your steadfast love, will enter your house. I will bow down before your holy temple in the fear of you. Lead me, O Lord, in your righteousness because of my enemies; make your way straight before me. For there is no truth in their mouth; their inmost self is destruction; their throat is an open grave; they flatter with their tongue. Psalm 5:7-9. The writer knows that he is different from the wicked only because of God’s grace (abundance of your steadfast love). Is own sin would destroy him if God did not have compassion on him as he approached Go’s presence. The psalmist protests his innocence by stating his desire to worship the Lord (will enter your house). “Your house” and “your holy temple” may refer to the site where the temple would be built, or perhaps the tabernacle of the psalmists own time. The path of safety that God opens (your way) is also the path of obedience to His will. (Destruction…open grave) Note how evil speech brings death. Meditate for a few minutes today, and be reminded that we come before God only through “the abundance of His steadfast love”; and we must continually pray that God will lead us to walk in the way that is morally straight.

Daily Word

For you are not a God who delights in wickedness; evil may not dwell with you. The boastful shall not stand before your eyes; you hate all evildoers. You destroy those who speak lies; the Lord abhors the blood thirsty and deceitful man. Psalms 5: 4-6. This is a poetic understatement (not a God who delights in wickedness). God hates sin. God is holy, “set apart” from all evil (evil may not dwell). Sinful people may not come into His presence without a substitutionary sacrifice. We cannot continue to live a life style so connected to the world that we are blinded by our own compromise to His Word. What is it that you no longer fell conviction over because you have allowed yourself to be blinded by compromise…remember, He is not a God who delights in wickedness…of any kind.

Daily Word

Give ear to my words, O Lord; consider my groaning. Give attention to the sound of my cry, my king and my God, for to you I do pray. O Lord, in the morning you hear my voice; in the morning I prepare a sacrifice for you and watch. Psalm 5:1-3. This lament petitions the Lord in the midst of distress. However, the psalmist also expresses trust in the Lord’s protection. The psalmist’s distress is caused by the evil speech of the wicked. The Hebrew word (groaning) implies a kind of muttering or scarcely audible speech, as would accompany memorizing or reflection. David, Israel’s king, addresses God as King. He knows that his own kingship is a pale reflection of God’s. What is it that you consider a “sacrifice” to God? Some consider those things of the world that they have given up as a sacrifice. Consider today a sacrifice of “time”. Beginning each morning with time spent crying out to God. Laying before Him the business of your day, your life, and then watch...see Him work in your life!

Daily Word

Be angry, and do not sin; ponder in your own hearts on your beds, and be silent. (Selah) Offer right sacrifices, and put your trust in the Lord. There are many who would say, “Who will show us some good? Lift up the light of your face upon us, O Lord!” You have put more joy in my heart than they have when their grain and whine abound. In peace I will both lie down and sleep; for you alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety. Psalm 4:4-8. (Words to the Godly) The singer (Psalmist) tells the godly not to give into the anger that would lead them to take revenge; instead they must remain steadfast in their worship and trust. This (Be angry, and do not sin) should perhaps be taken as a conditional sentence: “If you feel anger at those who slander you (which you may well do), nevertheless do not sin by seeking revenge against them.” They way to prevent sin is to PONDER and BE SILENT: that is, reflect on how the Lord has shown Himself trustworthy. This does not discourage the faithful from using legal resources when necessary; instead it speaks against personal revenge that circumvents the law and consumes the lives of the vengeful. It is the practice of intimate prayer, and the daily study of His Word that enables you to ponder and be silent in times of anger…Which also can be a test of your maturity in Christ!

Daily Word

O men, how long shall my honor be turned into shame? How long will you love vain words and seek after lies? But know that the Lord has set apart the godly for himself; the Lord hears when I call to him. Psalm 4:3-4. It seems that the psalmist is angry (My honor be turned into shame) at men who turn away from God to serve the false gods of the nation. The idols of the nations (seek after lies) are lies because they don’t really exist; they are figments of sinful imagination. The Hebrew word (Hasid) is the adjective form of “steadfast love” (Hb. Hesed). This term, variously rendered “godly”, “saint”, “faithful one”, and “holy one” in the Psalms, refer to those who have genuinely laid hold of God’s steadfast love; here it is singular, to stress that each faithful member of the people may have this confidence. If you attend your church once a week, and live out the rest of the week too busy to study His Word, or seek Him in prayer; then you may very well be living that life of loving vain words and seeking after lies. Without true knowledge of the Word you have no way of knowing whether or not what you hear each week is God’s truth or man’s truth. How can you expect to be set apart…when you fail to take the time to set apart your own life through Him?

Weekend Quote (Sun)

We must have faith; and let us not apologize for it, for faith is an organ of knowledge and can tell us more about ultimate reality than all the findings of science. We are not opposed to science, but we recognize its proper limitations and refuse to stop where it is compelled to stop. The bible tells of another world to fine for the instruments of scientific research to discover. By faith we engage that world and make it ours. It is accessible through the blood of the everlasting covenant. If we will believe we may even now enjoy the presence of God and the ministry of His heavenly messengers. Only unbelief can rob us of this royal privilege. ~ A. W. Tozer

Weekend Quote (Sat)

Our body is the most gracious gift God has given us, and if we hand over the mainspring of our life to God we can work out in our bodily life all that He works in. It is through our bodily lives that Satan works, and, thank God, it is through our bodily lives that God’s Spirit works. God gives us His grace and His Spirit; He puts right all that was wrong, He does not suppress it nor counteract it, but readjusts the whole thing; then begins our work. ~ Oswald Chambers

Daily Word

Answer me when I call, O God of my righteousness! You have given me relief when I was in distress. Be gracious to me and hear my prayer! Psalm 4:1. Like Psalm 3 this Psalm (4) was composed in distress, and the psalmist exhibits a deep confidence in God. Both Psalms meditate on faith in the night. The righteous have nothing to fear, because God hears their prayers and cares for them. The righteous are not without sin, but are in a covenant relationship with God. The imperative verbs in this verse (Answer me….my righteousness) show the boldness of the psalmist in prayer. He can fearlessly call on God because He knows that God is his righteousness. How often do you enter into prayer whether in distress or not with abandon confidence, and complete boldness knowing He is your righteousness; that you have nothing to fear?

Daily Word

He who sits in the heavens laughs; the Lord holds them in derision. Then he will speak to them in his fury, saying, “As for me, I have set my King on Zion, my holy hill.” Psalm 2:4-6 Since the Lord is not dismayed, neither do his people need to be, God laughs at the rebels and declares his firm purpose to establish the throne of David as he has promised. The Lord counters the plotting of the kings by pointing to the establishment of His messianic King, prefigured in the temporal monarchy of Jerusalem. Again, it doesn’t matter who man appoints to govern at any level…God is, and has always been in control. As children of God we must look towards the future of a worldwide rule from the house of David calls for a ruler who is more than a mere man!

Daily Word

Why do the nations rage and the people plot in vain? The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together, against the Lord and against his anointed, saying, “Let us burst their bonds apart and cast away their cords from us.” Psalm 2:1-2. This is a perfect reminder that it we are to trust in God alone when it comes to government. We should not be surprised at those things which man does as he is only following his nature. Be reminded that no matter how things may appear on the outside…God is ALWAYS in control.

Daily Word

Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous; for the Lord knows the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked will perish. Psalm 1:5-6. The two ways of life (the Lord knows the way) are determined by one’s relation to the Lord. The ideal of righteousness is fulfilled in Jesus Christ. What does your relation to the Lord determine about you right now?

Daily Word

He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers. The wicked are not so, but are like chaff that the wind drives away. Psalm 1:3-4. As Joseph prospered in Egypt, so will the righteous man. He is compared to a luxuriant tree, ever blooming because water is near. The contrast is strong. The wicked are compared to dead and rootless plants. A puff of wind carries them away. What does it mean to be prosperous in your eyes? Is it a Spiritual view or a worldly view? One who is rooted and planted in His Word remains strong and is prosperous. However, without His Word actively working in and through your life you will ultimately wither and die…That path is easley recognized as when the trials and tribulations that life brings comes their way…they are driven about like chaff in the wind!

Weekend Quote (Sun)

God does not communicate things to us so much as He just is Himself in us. We are the vessels, the containers, so the first work after the new birth is to cultivate the habit of receptivity. ~ Norman Grubb

Weekend Quote (Sat)

The presence of God is a fact of life. We may, by defying the purpose of God, insulate ourselves from that presence. We may, by unrepented sin, cut off the sense of God because we are clouded by a sense of guilt. We may through, no fault of our own, be unable to sense the God who is all about us. But the fact remains that He is with us all the time. ~ J.B. Phillips

Daily Word

Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; but his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night. Psalms 1:1-2. A stronger word than “happy” (blessed); to be “blessed” is to enjoy God’s special favor and grace. The righteous man is described by what he avoids (walks not…nor stands…nor sits). There is a downward progression in the verbs “walks”, “stands”, “sits.” The righteous man is described as someone who loves (his delight) the law of God. “Law” can refer to a specific command, but also to the whole scripture. The righteous person grows by an obedient response to the scriptures, which expresses the will of God…. STOP… Right now, take a long, hard, and deep look at yourself. Whose counsel are you following? Is your life as blessed as it could be or do you find yourself in an area of downward progression? If you find this to be true of you today…Repent, and return to the law of the Lord…as the righteous person loves and studies it.

Daily Word

For this Melchizedek, king of Salem, priest of the most high God, met Abraham returning from the slaughter of the kings and blessed him, and to him Abraham apportioned a tenth part of everything. He is first, by translation of his name, king of righteousness, and then he is also king of Salem, that is king of peace. Hebrews 7:1-2. The central point of this chapter is that the solemn promise of Ps. 110:4 was fulfilled only in Jesus Christ. Jesus’ eternal priesthood is explained in terms of the two OT texts that mention Melchizedek (Gen 14:17-20, Psalm 110:4). The introduction of Melchizedek emphasizes that he was a king as well as a priest. As such he is a type of Christ, who is our prophet, priest, and king. “Salem” was apparently an ancient name for Jerusalem. How does Jesus as prophet, priest, and king play out in your walk with Christ?

Daily Word

We have this as a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul, a hope that enters into the inner place behind the curtains, where Jesus has gone as a forerunner on our behalf, having become a high priest forever after the order of Melchizedek. Hebrews 6:19-20. Our life’s anchor is secured (the inner place behind the curtain) in the innermost section of the heavenly tabernacle, the original from which earthly sanctuary was modeled. Entrance to the inner sanctuary (has gone as a forerunner) is not possible without Jesus. He went in first, so that his people could follow. As Christians our hope is in the person and saving works of Jesus. Our hope provides security and stability for the soul. Be assured today that Because He has gone on before us that He has made the way for each of us to draw near into that place of the holy of holies. When was the last time you slowed down long enough to enter?

Daily Word

For people swear by something greater than themselves, and in all their disputes an oath is final for conformation. So when God desired to show more convincingly to the heirs of the promise the unchangeable character of his purpose, he guaranteed it with an oath, so that by two unchangeable things, in which it is impossible for God to lie, we who have fled from refuge might have strong encouragement to hold fast to the hope set before us. Hebrews 6:16-18. God’s oath bound promise was not only for Abraham but for all who follow in his footsteps. God’s unchanging, purpose was to bless the world through the seed of Abraham; the meaning of this was revealed in the gospel. The unchanging promise God conveyed to Abraham and the oath that confirmed it raising it above all uncertainty or distrust. The oath confirms that the promise was indeed the purpose of God. Hang on to this passage for future reference the next time you find yourself doubting the promises of God!

Weekend Quote (Sun)

Christianity is neither contemplation nor action. It is participation. Contemplation is looking at God as if He were an object. But if you participate in God in the sense that you let yourself be penetrated by Him, you will go to the cross like Him, you will go to work like Him, you will clean shoes, do the washing up and the cooking, all like Him. You cannot do otherwise because you will have become part of Him. You will do what He loves to do. ~ Louis Evely

Weekend Quote (Sat)

Fellowship with God leads straight to obedience and good works. That is the divine order and it can never be reversed. ~ A.W. Tozer.

Daily Word

For when God made a promise to Abraham, since he had no one greater by whom to swear, he swore by himself, saying, “Surely I will bless you and multiply you” And thus Abraham, having patiently waited, obtained the promise. Hebrews 6:13-15. Faith can endure patiently because God’s oath secures His promise to us, as it did to Abraham. Our confidence rests in the eternal high priesthood of Jesus after the order of Melchizedek, a priesthood secured by divine promise and oath. That God whose “word is truth,” should reinforce the surety of that infallible promise through an oath underscores the permanence and seriousness of the divine promise. While sinful and fallible human beings “swear by something greater” than themselves, God, the highest authority, “swore by himself.” The divine promise and oath was God’s response to Abraham’s attempted sacrifice of Isaac, the child of divine promise, in obedience to divine direction. In the birth and then the rescue of Isaac, Abraham did receive the promised blessing of offspring. Nevertheless, he did not see the complete fulfillment of those covenantal promises. The word is full of God’s promises for you. Those promises are fulfilled in His time and not ours. Our requirement is to demonstrate faith that endures patiently. What promise have you given up on lately?

Daily Word

Though we speak in this way, yet in your case, beloved, we feel sure of better things- things that belong to salvation. For God is not unjust so as to overlook your work and the love that you have shown for his name in serving the saints, as you still do. And we desire each one of you to show the same earnestness to have the full assurance of hope until the end, so that you may not be sluggish, but imitators of those who through faith and patience inherit the promises. Hebrews 6:9-12. By bearing firstfruits of a useful crop, the readers give reason for confidence that they will prove to be the land that receives God’s blessing of salvation. Still, they must shake off their present sluggishness to receive the inheritance promised to patient believers. The severity of the previous warning should not lead to despair. Because the goal of faith is in the future (hope), the faithful must “hold on until the end.” Abraham is the preeminent example (through faith and patience inherit the promises); but biblical history is full of witnesses who have run the course of patient faith ahead of us, and have now received the promised inheritance through Christ’s perfecting work. When was the last time you felt “sluggish” in your faith, and how do you walk through faith and patients in your relationship with Christ?

Daily Word

For land that has drunk the rain that often falls on it, and produces a crop useful to those for whose sake it is cultivated, receives a blessing from God. But if it bears thorns and thistles, it is worthless and near to being cursed, and its end is to be burned. Hebrews 6:7-8. According to the Prophetic imagery of the OT, the ground is God’s people, and the rain falling on it is the word or the Spirit of God. The unproductive field is destroyed. Today, many claim to be a Christian. You cannot simply believe that there is a “God”, or a “higher power.” Because you attend church once a week, have a Christian radio station set on your car radio to listen to once in a while, and where a cross around your neck because it looks good. Doesn’t qualify among those things that God receives as honoring Him. Confession, submission, and obedience are the first steps…And they produce in you a cultivated life that produces a crop useful in His service and honorable in His sight!

Daily Word

For it is impossible, in the case of those who have once been enlightened, who have tasted the heavenly gift, and have shared in the Holy Spirit, and have tasted the goodness of the word of God and the powers of the age too come, and then have fallen away, to restore them again to repentance, since, they are crucifying once again the Son of God to their own harm and holding him up to contempt. Hebrews 6:4-6. (Once been enlightened) That is, had the knowledge of God disclosed in the gospel message and publicly confessed baptism. In early Christian writings, conversion and baptism were sometimes termed “enlightenment.” The Greek word for “once” is prominent in Hebrews. It is used in connection with the once-for-all sacrifice in Christ. Some see here (tasted the Holy gift) a reference to participation in the sacrament of the Lord’s Supper. Or the phrase could be paired with “enlightenment” as a broad description of apparent conversion. They had some experience (shared in the Holy Spirit) with the gifts of the Holy Spirit, but it is not necessary to conclude that regeneration is specifically intended. Most obviously, (signs to come) the signs and wonders that accompanied the introduction of the gospel. You cannot turn your back on something you never had in the first place. One either fully submits to Christ or does not there is no partial commitment.

Daily Word

Therefore let us leave the elementary doctrine of Christ and go on to maturity, not laying again a foundation of repentance from dead works and of faith toward God, and of instruction about washing's, the laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment. And this we will do if God permits. Hebrews 6 1-3. These (elementary doctrines) ABC’s of Christian doctrine, which are now briefly enumerated. All these doctrines can be found in the Book of Acts. The plural is unexpected (washing's/baptisms); there is only one Christian baptism. Yet even today when Christian baptism is discussed, other baptisms, at least John the Baptist’s, must be mentioned. This was certainly true in NT times. Another possibility is that the word refers specifically to OT ceremonial washings as part of the essential background for Christ’s work. The action (laying on of hands) accompanied blessing, healing the sick, ordination of church officers, and especially the gift of the spirit, which was associated with baptism. Alternatively, as is possible with “ washing's,” the writer may be referring to the OT foundation of Christ’s work. The conventional phrase (God permits) acknowledges the need for God’s help in learning and teaching Christian doctrine. Its use suggests that the material to follow is difficult, as indeed it is. Although verse three (last verse) is only eight words long. Foe me, it bears the weight of this entire passage. “And this we will do if God permits,” So many times we try to do things in our own power, and accomplish things according to our own agenda failing to rely on God. We accomplish that which God alone permits, and often time take way to much credit for ourselves rather than giving it the one who permitted our victories in the first place. Maturity is being able to recognize from where our accomplishments come. Take time today to thank, and give God His due glory for all that He has permitted you to accomplish this far in your life!

Weekend Quote (Sat)

True faith is never found alone; it is always accompanied by expectation. The man who believes the promises of God expects to see them fulfilled. Where there is no expectation there is no faith. ~ A.W. Tozer

Daily Word

About this we have much to say, and it is hard to explain, since you have become dull in hearing. For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the basic principles of the oracles of God. You need milk not solid food, for everyone who lives on milk is unskilled in the word of righteousness, since he is a child. But solid food is for the mature, for those who have their powers of discernment trained by constant practice to distinguish good from evil. Hebrews 5:11-14. The Greek word “dull” reappears, suggesting that the danger of spiritual laziness is in view throughout this section. Such truths (basic principles of the oracles of God) are listed in the next chapter. Although milk is nourishing for infants, the author desires that his readers become mature Christians, for whom solid food is appropriate. The maturity to grasp Christ’s priestly ministry is not intellectual sophistication, but spiritual discernment arising from consistent obedience to God’s will. It does not matter how long you've been a Christian, how much scripture you can memorize, how often you attend church, or all the ministries you serve in. Failing to walk in obedience, or applying the truths of His Word In your life on a consistent basis simply demonstrates your lack of maturity. Are you as mature a Christian outside the church as you appear to be inside?

Daily Word

Although he was a son, he learned obedience through what he suffered. And being made perfect, he became the source of eternal salvation to all who obey him, being designated by God a high priest after the order of Melchizedek. Hebrews 5:8-10. Though entirely free from sin, Jesus’ struggle against temptation was real. As One who came into the world to do the Father’s will, Christ successfully met each increasingly difficult challenge to His integrity, climaxing in the shameful and painful death on the cross. This life of learned obedience offsets the disobedience of Adam and qualifies Christ to serve as the eternal high priest. This does not mean (being made perfect) that Jesus finally became sinless, He was always without sin, but that He finished the course of suffering that was before Him, including the sacrificial death. Having done this, He was “made perfect,” or completely qualified to serve as the uniquely effective high priest. The language here may allude to the concept of priestly consecration. Jesus lives forever (eternal salvation) to intercede as our high priest. Notice that He “learned” obedience through all that He suffered. How much different would your walk with Christ be today if you applied the same the mindset in that which you suffer no matter how big or small the suffering is that comes into your life?

Daily Word

In the days of his flesh, Jesus offered up prayers and supplications, with loud cries and tears, to him who was able to save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverence. Hebrews 5:7. Jesus’ anguish at the prospect of the cross (loud cries and tears) shows that He is not aloof from the weakness and fears that threaten us. The Psalmists praised God that He heard their cries of distress. Jesus’ plea for salvation from death was answered not through escape from the ordeal of the cross, but through His Resurrection from death. This passage clearly points out that (prayers) Jesus prayed with intensity continuously and often. What brings you to the place of such intensity in your prayer, and what makes that situation any greater than your typical prayer that lacks intensity?

Daily Word

So also Christ did not exalt himself to be made high priest, but was appointed by him who said to him, “You are my Son, today I have begotten you”; as he says also in another place, “You are a priest forever, after the order of Melchizedek.” Hebrews 5:5-6. Psalms 2:7 is quoted twice in Hebrews, both times in a leading position. Here it is the opening step of a long and detailed discussion of Melchizedek. This mysterious figure (Melchizedek) is mentioned only twice in the OT. But the association here of the title “priest forever, after the order of Melchizedek” with the words “my Son” shows the exalted character of this priesthood, and justifies the author’s fuller explanation as we will see in chapter 7. Make no mistake about it...Christ was appointed. Sometimes it’s hard to understand or swallow the fact that we to are appointed into position whether it be on our job, at our church etc…It’s always in God’s timing and not our own.

Daily Word

He can deal gently with the ignorant and wayward, since he himself is beset in weakness. Because of this he is obligated to offer sacrifice for his own sins just as he does for those of the people. And no one takes this honor for himself, but only when called by God, just as Aaron was. Hebrews 5 2-4. The weakness of the OT high priest in the face of his own temptations compelled him to moderate his indignation over others’ sins and “deal gently” with them. Jesus’ sympathy also is strongly motivated, since he fully identifies with the struggles of His people. Yet Jesus never succumbed to sin. The law distinguished between sins committed out of weakness or ignorance, and sins committed in defiance against the Lords authority. The OT high priest was himself in need of atonement and forgiveness, unlike our sinless high priest. The initial call of Aaron was confirmed in response to the challenge of Korah, Dathan, and Abiram through the budding of Aaron’s staff. The priestly privilege of approach to God is by invitation only- mediated through physical descent for the Old Testament Levitical priests, but finally established through the divine oath to Jesus the Son. Today, recognize the privilege you have to approach God at any time, and every moment. Be reminded of the great sacrifice that was made on your behalf to do so.

Weekend Quote (Sun)

If the living voice of God were not speaking in the world and in the hearts of men, the written Word could have no real meaning for us. God is speaking in His world, we are able to hear Him speak in His Word. ~ A.W. Tozer

Weekend Quote (Sat)

Better in bitterest agony to lie before thy throne, than through much increase to be lifted up on high, and stand alone. Yet best- the need that broke me at thy feet, is voiceless prayer, and cast my chastened heart, a sacrifice complete. ~ John Oxenham

Daily Word

For every high priest chosen from among men is appointed to act on behalf of men in relation to God, to offer gifts and sacrifices for sins. Hebrews 5:1. The Phrase (offer gifts and sacrifices for sins) “gifts and sacrifices” covers offerings of several different kinds called for in the work of the Old Testament priests. But the main interest here is in those offered for sins. Although we no longer offer up animal sacrifices for our sins. God still requires something from us. It’s called REPENTANCE. Often times it would appear much easier for some to kill an animal and offer it to Gad than to put to death one’s flesh and repent before God. Repentance should be a daily occurrence in each of our lives. How does repentance play out in your relationship with Christ?

Daily Word

Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need. Hebrews 4:16. Confident access (let us then with confidence draw near) to God is a priestly privileged reserved for those who have been purified from sin’s pollution by Jesus’ sacrifice, and so can offer sacrifices of thanksgiving pleasing God. On the priestly privilege of Christian believers. Mercy (mercy…grace to help) addresses our need for forgiveness when we have succumbed to temptation, and grace brings timely support to sustain us in the midst of temptation. Is the throne of grace the first place you turn in your time of need? If not, what has shaken your confidence and prevents you from turning there first?

Daiyl Word

Since then we have a high great priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast to our confessions. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we have, yet without sin. Hebrews 4:14-15. Christ was raised, ascended, (Passed through the heavens) and sits at God’s right hand, where He ministers as our great and eternal high priest. Again, we are reminded of perseverance (let us hold fast to our confessions). This (in every respect has been tempted) is a vivid reinstatement of vs.2:17, 18. As temptation is again mentioned, the author is careful to add that Christ was “without sin” despite His knowledge of our weakness. They say the first step is acknowledging you have a problem in the first place. Jesus is well aware of our weakness. Perhaps the greatest obstacle in our lives is our failure to recognize the depths of our own weakness. Until we are able to grasp this I’m not sure we can fully recognize and appreciate His position as high priest or His sympathy for our weakness. Today, search yourself, own, confess, and turn a weakness in your life over to Christ, your great high priest.

Daily Word

Let us therefore strive to enter that rest, so that no one may fall from that same sort of disobedience. For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and spirit, of joints and marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. And no creature is hidden from sight, but all are naked and exposed to the eyes of him to whom we must give an account. Hebrews 4:11-13. This again (therefore strive to enter that rest) emphasizes the need for perseverance. It should be remembered, however, that salvation is based not on good works but on Jesus’ high priestly sacrifice, and anything believers can do to please God comes from His working in them. The opposite of perseverance is disobedience, the sin of the faithless exodus generation. The warning continues: faithless disobedience will not go unnoticed. Usually this phrase (word of God) in Hebrews refers to the message of salvation, but here the “word” is pictured as God’s personal utterance, living, active, sharp, piercing, and discerning, with eyes that expose. The Word of God then acts as God Himself, so that one’s innermost thoughts and intentions are exposed. This happens constantly in Christians lives. Today is a reminder that the sin you continue to walk in and think no one else knows about is laid bare and exposed before God. Turn to His Word and as you hear His voice allow it to penetrate deep within…and then persevere!

Daily Word

For Joshua had given them rest, God would not have spoken of another day later on. So then, there remains a Sabbath rest for the people of God, for whoever has entered God’s rest has also rested from his works as God did from His. In verses 3-5 of this chapter we see another indication that the physical land of Canaan did not fulfill the promises of God’s rest. When David wrote, Israel long ago had entered Canaan under Joshua. If the land they entered under Joshua had fulfilled the promise of divine rest, the Psalm’s warning to David’s generation would have been pointless. The patriarchs’ hope was fixed on a better, heavenly country. There are similar arguments from the OT. The final (there remains a Sabbath) Sabbath celebration awaits God’s people in the future. The reference (rested from his people) is probably not conversion, in which we transfer trust from our work to Christ, but to our final deliverance from suffering, testing, and effort. Those who dire in the Lord “rest from their labors.” What does “Sabbath” mean to you, and out does it play out in your walk, relationship with Christ?

Weekend Quote (Sun)

No image but the image of God can fit our soul; every other seal is too narrow, to shallow for it. ~ John Donne

Weekend (Sat) Quote

Lord, I have shut the door, speak now thy word. Which in the din and throng could not be heard; hushed now my inner heart, while all is still. Lord, I have shut the door, here I bow; speak, for my soul attent turns to thee now. Rebuke thou what is vain, counsel my soul, Thy holy reveal, my will control. ~ William M. Runyan

Daily Word

Since therefore it remains for some to enter it, and those who formerly received the good news failed to enter because of disobedience, again he appoints a certain day, “Today,” saying through David so long afterward, in the words already quoted, “Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts.” Hebrews 4:6-7. The readers have already learned that they live in the time called “today”; therefore they must heed the promises and the warnings. Through David the offer of entry (and a warning against failure to enter) is continued to a new generation, who “today” must respond to God’s voice. There is no better day than “TODAY” for a heart check. Are you truly walking in the righteousness of Christ or does disobedience seem to keep tripping you up? LISTEN…Hear His voice and do not harden your heart. For TODAY is your day!

Daily Word

For we who believed enter that rest, as he said, “As I swore in my wrath, they shall not enter my rest,” although his works were finished from the foundation of the world. For he has somewhere spoken of the seventh day in this way: “And God rested on the seventh from all his works.” And again in this passage he said, “They shall not enter my rest.” Hebrews 4:3-5. The basic theme of these verses is that a “rest” of God has existed from the seventh day of creation, even though the disobedient generation could not enter it. The writer understands the promises about the physical land to point ultimately to the divine rest, which those who believe may enter. It is faith in God’s good news that enables you to enter into that “rest.” Do you see a greater importance of growing stronger in faith each day?

Daily Word

Therefore, while the promise of entering his rest stands, let us fear lest any of you should seem to have failed to reach it. For good news came to us just as to them, because they were not united by faith with those who listened. Hebrews 4:1-2. The divine judgment inspires fear (let us fear), but we should not fear what men may do. The good news ( good news came to us) of deliverance and God’s love that Israel heard at Sinai was not as clear as the salvation spoken now through the Lord, but it would have been of value to the hearers , ushering them into God’s rest, if they had combined it with faith. The good news for the church includes the revelation and deliverance found in the Lord Jesus, the new covenant he established through His high priestly sacrifice, and the hope of eternity with Him. Have you ever given any thought to what spiritual “rest” means and how it is applied to your life?

Daily Word

For who were those who heard and yet rebelled? Was it not all those who left Egypt led by Moses? And with whom was he provoked for forty years? Was it not with those who sinned, whose bodies fell in the wilderness? And to who did he swear would not enter into his rest, but those who were disobedient? So we see that they were unable to enter because of unbelief. Hebrews 3:16-19. Neither the blessing from the Exodus from Egypt nor the privilege of hearing God’s voice guaranteed to the generation that was in the wilderness that they would enter God’s rest, the rest that is the goal of our pilgrimage. Their rebellion, and disobedience was rooted in unbelief, in their failure to cling permanently to God’s promises. Have you become so comfortable in your salvation that you've become blinded by your compromises of unbelief and disobedience that are chipping away tripping you up along your pilgrimage?

Daily Word

For we have come to share in Christ, if indeed we hold our original confidence firm to the end. As it is said, “Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts as in rebellion.” Hebrews 3:14-15. The Greek (We…share in Christ) can be taken to mean that we are partakers of Christ, His companions, sharing new life with Him. It is also possible to translate “share in Christ,” indicating that He is the benefit we share in through our intimate union with Him. Every day we have obstacles placed before us with opportunities to obey the Father. Sometimes we are obedient, and sometimes we are not. Each time we fail to act on that still small voice of God, and do as we choose through our worldly influence we harden our hearts just a little more, and we are walking in rebellion. Today, strive to hear and obey His voice, and stand firm in the confidence of Christ!

Weekend Quote (Sun)

God works powerfully, but for the most part gently and gradually. ~ John Newton

Weekend Quote (Sat)

I had prayed for faith and thought that someday faith would come down and strike me like lightning. But faith did not seem to come. One day I read in the tenth chapter of Romans, “Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” I had up to this time closed my Bible and prayed for faith. I now opened my Bible and began to study, and faith has been growing ever since. ~ Dwight L. Moody

Daily Word

Take care, brothers, lest there be in any of you an evil, unbelieving heart, leading you to fall away from the living God. But exhort one another every day, as long as it is called “today,” that none of you may be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin. Hebrews 3:12-13. The author address his readers in terms of their confession of faith as “brothers,” yet also recognizes that some within the Christian fellowship may have an “evil, unbelieving heart.” Sin promotes the illusion that disobedience is more secure or pleasurable than the pilgrimage of faith. Christ saves completely those who come to God through Him, but Christians must guard their own and each other’s endurance by encouraging one another, as the author does throughout this letter. Today, begin and put into practice exhorting those around you. Be an encourager to your fellow brethren. Doing so will also encourage you!

Daily Word

“Therefore, as the Holy Spirit says, ‘Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts as in rebellion, on the day of testing in the wilderness, where your fathers put me to the test and saw my works for forty years.” Therefore I was provoked with that generation, and said, “They always go astray in their heart; they have not known my ways. As I swore in my wrath, they shall not enter my rest.” Hebrews 3:7-11. In contrast to Moses’ (therefore) faithfulness, the Arthur refers to the people of Moses’ day, citing Psalms 95:7-11. Hebrews attributes this Psalm to the work of the Holy Spirit, thus emphasizing the authority of the words. Has it ever occurred to you just how often we walk with harden hearts? Every time we choose to disobey that still small voice or walk in a manner opposite of how we are called as children of God we do so with a hardened heart of rebellion. Today, recognize the areas in which you need to be set free from hardness of the heart.

Daily Word

Now Moses was faithful in all God’s house as a servant, to testify to the things that were be spoken later, but Christ is faithful over God’s house as a son. And we are His house if indeed we hold fast our confidence and our boasting in our hope. Hebrews 3:5-6. Since the writer alludes to Numbers 12:7, the emphasis is on the dignity of Moses’ (faithful in all God’s house) service. Moses is the unique minster of the law, but Jesus’ ministry is higher still. Moses’ ministry was to testify to Christ’s coming. The Mosaic Law by its shadows pointed toward the coming good things brought by Christ, for in its regulations the Holy Spirit showed that access into God’s presence would come only when the earthly tabernacle was replaced by something better. Notice the prepositions (over God’s house): Moses was “in” the house, but Christ is “over” God’s house. God’s house consists of His people (we are His house), an important theme throughout the scripture. This condition (if we hold fast) tells us how we can know that we belong to God- our faith must prove itself by persevering. The note of warning is a fitting introduction to the quotation from Psalm 95 that we will see in tomorrow’s devotional. Do those around you know where your hope lies…How often do you “boast” in your hope?

Daily Word

For Jesus has been counted worthy of more glory than Moses- as much more glory as the builder of a house has more honor than the house itself. (For every house is built by someone, but the builder of all things is God). Hebrews 3:3-4. With reference to Num. 12:7, Moses and Christ are compared as to faithfulness and contrasted as to honor (3:2-6). Though privileged to speak to God face to face and to see His form, Moses was still only a “servant” in the house of God. Christ, as an agent of creation deserves honor as divine builder of all things and as Son “over God’s house.” The necessary implication is that Jesus is the builder of the house, and therefor that He is divine. This passage points both to Christ’s identity as God (“the builder”) and to His personal distinction from the Father. Take a moment today and give Jesus the glory for all He has built in you, and who you've become in Christ Jesus.

Weekend Quote (Sun)

The Soul that has been enriched by communion with God will not be dismayed by isolation but will welcome solitude. He will seek not the crowd but the closet, and emerging will never walk alone, for he has unseen companionship. ~ Frances J. Roberts

Weekend Quote (Sat)

Nobody ever out grows scripture; the book widens and deepens with our years. ~ Charles H. Spurgeon

Daily Word

For because he himself has suffered when tempted, he is able to help those when tempted. Hebrews 2:18. “Suffered”- Jesus’ sufferings as a human, especially in his death. Jesus, as high priest, was tempted in every way and yet did not sin. Jesus is a (help) sympathetic and merciful high priest who knows human spiritual infirmities since he experienced the full range of temptations, and he has atoned for transgressions. The Gospels show Jesus experiencing human limitations…hunger, fatigue, ignorance of fact, and sorrow. Hebrews stresses that if Christ had not shared all these facets of human experience- weakness, temptation, and pain- he would not be qualified to help us as we face such trials. How difficult is it for you to wrap your head around the fact that Jesus has experienced EVERYTHING you have, been tempted by EVERYTHING that you are, and what keeps you from submitting EVERY battle you face unto Him?

Daily Word

For surely it is not angels that he helps, but he helps the offspring of Abraham. Therefore he had to be made like his brothers in every respect, so that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in the service of God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people. Hebrews 2:16-17. Angels recalls the superiority of the Son to angels and the need for him to partake of human nature. “Offspring of Abraham” connects to the OT story, referring not merely to Jewish Israel but also to the more expansive promises to Abraham. Unless Jesus became fully human (had to be) in every respect (except sin), He could not represent believers as their high priest. “Like his brothers,” emphasizing Jesus’ human nature. Jesus must be human in order to serve as high priest on behalf of humanity. Propitiation conveys the sense of an atoning sacrifice that puts away sin and satisfies God’s wrath. When was the last time you really gave some thought to the wrath that’s been satisfied on your behalf…can you even fathom His WRATH?

Daily Word

Since therefore the children share in flesh and blood, he himself likewise partook of the same things, that through death he might destroy the one who has the power of death, that is, the devil, and deliver all those who through fear of death were subject to lifelong slavery. Hebrews 2:14-15. “Flesh and Blood” is an idiomatic way of saying “human.” The same Greek phrase is seen throughout the New Testament and may emphasize the limitations of the human condition. He “partook of the same things,” that is, the same humanity, a phrase stressing the completeness of the Son’s incarnation. In order for Christ to triumph over death and the devil enduring God’s judgment upon sinners, it was necessary for Him to share their “flesh and blood” nature. Having tempted humanity to sin (the one who has power of death), the devil then acts as the accuser, demanding that a just punishment be exacted; and “the wages of sin is death.” The devils power to kill is destroyed only when our sin has been punished-in Christ’s death. Then his accusations have no ground. All too often, Christians today give the devil credit for things he has no business getting credit for. Sometimes the only devil that should be blamed is the one staring back at you in the mirror. The devil may act as your accuser…But as a child of God you have VICTORY through Christ Jesus. Remind yourself often…through Christ the enemy has no ground.

Daily Word

For he who sanctifies and those who are sanctified all have one source. That is why he is not ashamed to call them brothers, saying, “I will tell of your name to my brothers; in the midst of the congregation I will sing your praise.” And again, “I will put my trust in Him.” And again, “Behold, I and the children God has given me.” Hebrews 2:11-13. Jesus (he who sanctifies) makes His people holy through His blood. Jesus’ true followers (those who are sanctified), who are made holy by His sacrifice. Some commentators think one source is a reference to the common humanity shared by Jesus and those being saved, or to their common descent from Abraham. Others think that the “one source” is God the Father (that is why he is not ashamed to call them brothers). Since they share a descent (or, since God is their common Father), they are members of the same family, and therefore brothers. Psalm 22, from which vs.12 quotes, is associated with Jesus death and resurrection. The resurrected Messiah, his suffering completed, calls His brothers to join with him in worship. Both this verse and Matt. 26:30 speak of Jesus singing, but here the congregation in view is the assembly of all the redeemed in heaven. Think about it for a moment, and be reminded that everywhere you turn to before you look to Jesus is a “source.” How many “sources” do you have and how many do you go through before you finely turn to Christ?

Daily Word

For it was fitting that he, for whom and by whom all things exist, in bringing many sons to glory, should make the founder of their salvation perfect through suffering. Hebrews 2:10. This is God the Father (he, for whom and by whom all things exist) who acts to “make perfect” the “founder of salvation” (Jesus). The followers (many sons) of the one unique Son of God are now called “sons,” for they are adopted into the glory of the newly redeemed human family. The concept of making “perfect” is applied elsewhere in Hebrews both to Jesus himself and to His work in sanctifying his followers. In saying that Jesus was made perfect, the author is not suggesting that Jesus was sinful but that as He lived his life, His maturity and experience deepened, yet always with full obedience to the Father. As a human being, He needed to live His life and obey God (which he did perfectly) to become the perfect sacrifice for sins. Although we will never be “perfect” in this life; through our obedience we demonstrate our maturity of a deepened relationship with Jesus. On a scale of 1 (low) to 10 (high) how would you rate in your obedience to God? Why?

Weekend Quote

Every man will have to decide for himself whether he can afford the the terrible luxury of unbelief. A.W Tozer

Weekend Quote

PRAYER for today: O God and Father, I repent of my sinful preoccupation with visible things. The world has been to much with me. Thou hast been here and too much with me. Thou hast been here and I knew it not. I have been blind to Thy presence. Open my eyes that I may behold Thee in and around me. For Christ’s sake. Amen. ~ A.W. Tozer

Daily Word

But we seem him who for a little while was made lower than the angels, namely Jesus, crowned with glory and honor because of the suffering of death, so that by the grace of God he might taste death for everyone. Hebrews 10:9. Jesus (we see him) has the crown of glory and honor. It must now be shown that He received it as a man, and so can satisfy the words of the Psalm quoted. The expression “made over” can refer to status or time (that is, “a little later”). If it refers to time, it indicates the temporary character of Jesus’ humiliation. Here, (taste death for everyone) “everyone” must be understood in the light and of the context and of the results of Jesus’ death described elsewhere in Hebrews. It refers to the “many sons” whom God brings to glory, whom Jesus calls “brothers.” Those for whom Jesus tasted death, were made holy and perfect once and for all by His sacrifice, their consciences cleansed from acts that lead to death, so they are freed from the fear of death. By contrast, there are those (even within Christian congregations) who do not trust the son but subject Him to ridicule. For them, “there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins, but a fearful expectation of judgment.” Thus “everyone” here includes all those (but only those) who persevere in trusting Jesus. Simply put…Is the life you’re living worth Christ dying for?

Daily Word

Now it was not to angels that God subjected the world to come, of which we are speaking. It has been testified somewhere, “what is man, that you are mind full of him, or son of man, that you care for him? You made him for a little while lower than the angels; you have crowned him with glory and honor, putting everything in subjection under his feet. Now in putting everything in subjection to him, he left nothing outside his control. At present, we do not yet see everything in subjection to him. Hebrew 2:5-8. Such vagueness (testified somewhere) in scriptural reference is characteristic of the author of Hebrews, who stresses divine authorship of scripture rather than human authors. This way of citing well-known Old Testament proof text about a man in creation is evidence for the Jewish background of the recipients. Psalm 8 describes the glorious status of man as the head of all creation. How do you explain authorship of the bible to others? If you’ve never had the opportunity then today is a good day to prepare yourself to do so. Be ready in season and out!

Daily Word

For since the message declared by angels proved to be reliable, and every transgression or disobedience received just retribution, how shall we escape if we neglect such a great salvation? Hebrews 2:2-3. The role of the angels (declared by angels) in the giving of the law is suggested in Deut. 33:2 and became a standard element of Jewish and Christian description in Sinai. The argument is from the lesser to the greater. If what the angels said was “reliable,” then what comes from One superior to angels must be more so. The Greek word for “reliable” is legal terminology, as is witness. Violators of the Lord’s covenant (just retribution) were purged from the covenant community through death. Salvation…as first mentioned in 1:14, includes inheritance of the world to come, entry into the glory as God’s adopted sons, purification from sins, freedom from fear of death, and the privilege of drawing near to God to offer worship that pleases Him. The apostles (those who heard Him) were witnesses of what Jesus said and did in His ministry, death, and resurrection. Think about this for a moment…How exactly are YOU neglecting your own salvation….and what are you going to do to stop that neglecting?

Daily Word

Therefore we must pay much closer attention to what we have heard, lest we drift from it. Hebrews 2:1. The first four verses of this chapter are warnings against neglecting salvation. This warning calls each of us to pay heed to the greater salvation which was declared by the Lord Himself, attesting by human eye witnesses, and authenticated God’s power. Following standard Jewish argumentation, the argument proceeds from the lesser (retributions under the Mosaic Law) to the greater (the danger of neglecting the greater salvation). Jesus is superior to angels (Therefore), we must pay close attention to what we have heard because this message from the Son of God is also superior to prior revelation, which came through angels. To “drift away” results in dangerous “neglect” of the message. There are many today whom appear to be stuck in the OT…never accepting or acquiring the riches of the new covenant. When we listen to others be it a pastor, evangelist, or biblical teacher, and we fail to seek and search through God’s word ourselves. We simply place ourselves in great danger of “drifting away” from truth which will eventually result in our neglecting of His truth.

Daily Word

And to which of the angels has he ever said, “Sit at my right hand until I make your enemies a footstool for your feet”? Are they all not ministering spirits sent out to serve for the sake of those who are to inherent salvation? Hebrews 1:13-14. The Son’s position of heavenly authority is contrasted to the angels’ role as servants to “those who are to inherit salvation” (that is, who share as co-heirs in the Son’s rights as heir). The angels are servants to Christ, but also to His people, who inherit salvation through union with Him. In this His people are favored above angels. No matter how hard folks attempt to glorify something other than Christ the fact remains that He has set the order and nothing we do will change that. We place people, and things like angles on a pedestal often forgetting that the Throne of God is and always will be above them all!

Weekend Quote (Sun)

Do little things as if they were great because of the majesty of the Lord Jesus Christ who dwell’s in you; and do great things as if they were little and easy because of His omnipotence. ~ Blaise Pascal

Weekend Quote (Sat)

The greatest need of the human personality is to experience God Himself. This is because of who God is and who and what man is. ~ A.W. Tozer

Daily Post

“And, You, Lord, laid the foundation of the earth in the beginning, and the heavens are the work of your hands; they will parish, but you remain; they will all wear out like a garment, like a robe you will roll them up, like a garment they will be changed. But you are the same, and your eyes will have no end.” Hebrews 1:10-12 The Son’s unchanging eternity as God is essential to His high priesthood. Through Him the inheritance of believers remains forever. When you look at the scope of things in your life, and ponder for a moment that everything will wear out, everything will parish; it has to bring about great joy to know that YOU have indeed through Christ Jesus become an inheritance of believers that will remain forever. Begin today to become more heavenly minded a directed than earthly minded and driven.

Daily Word

But of the Son he says, “Your throne, O God, is forever and ever, the scepter of uprightness is the scepter of your kingdom. You have loved righteousness and hated wickedness; therefore God, has anointed you with the oil of gladness beyond your companions.” Hebrews 1:8, 9. The quotation (Ps. 45:6-7) is from a Psalm extolling the Davidic King. Only Jesus, as the Davidic Messiah (the Anointed one), truly meets this description, since by reigning at God’s right hand He possess an eternal kingdom (Forever and ever) and reigns in true righteousness. The messianic Son is rightfully also called God, in this case by God the Father. There is no mistaking as to whom Christ Jesus is or from where Christ Jesus stands (or sits). Recognize today that YOU hold many roles in His kingdom from Servant (slave) to child of the living God!

Weekend Quote (Sun)

Watch where Jesus went. The one dominant note in His life was to do His Father’s will. His is not the way of wisdom or of Success, but the way of faithfulness. ~ Oswald Chambers

Daily Word

And Again, when he brings the firstborn into the world, he says, “Let all the angels worship him.” Of the angels he says, “He makes his angels winds, and hid ministers of flame.” Hebrews 1:6,7. As the Son condescends to assume our human nature, angels worship Him. As in Ps. 89:27, the term “firstborn” means “of the highest rank,” above the kings of the earth, and not “first in order of birth”. In Ex. 4:22 it means “chosen” or most “desired.” The storm clouds of Ps. 104 adorn the Lord’s heavenly court. “Winds” and “flame” associate angels with the created worlds mutability in contrast to the Son’s eternal permanence. In contrast to the Son’s royal enthronement, the angels are merely “ministers” or “servants.” While there are many books, and many different approaches in the teaching of “angels. Today we bring angels into perspective in contrast with Christ. There is nothing greater or in a higher position than Christ whom sits at the right hand of God.

Daily Word

For which of the angels did God ever say, “You are my son, today I have begotten you.” Or again, “I will be to him a father, and he shall be to me a son.” Hebrews 1:5. The Fathers decree declaring the messiah to be His Son is identified with Christ’s exaltation. Though Jesus is the eternal and divine Son of God, the declaration of redemptive Sonship prophesized in Psalm 2:7 was conferred on Him in time, when He completed His messianic work. As believers you and I cannot become divine and share in Christ’s eternal divine Sonship, but our adoption as sons of God means that we participate in Christ’s redemptive Sonship through union with the “founder of our salvation.” There are many today who are preaching false doctrine…Know and understand the difference between His Sonship and your adoption as a son of God.

Daily Word

He is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of His nature, and He upholds the universe by the word of His power. After making purification for sins, He sat down at the right hand of the majesty on high, having become as much superior to angels as the name he has inherited is more excellent than theirs. Hebrews 1:3-4. The Greek word rendered “radiance” describes divine wisdom personified in the Jewish intertestamental book Wisdom of Solomon. But Hebrews speaks not merely of a personified divine attribute, but of a divine Person who entered history to purify sinners. The “exact imprint of his nature” expresses both the Son’s oneness with the Father and the distinction of divine persons. As One whose being corresponds exactly to the Father, the accurately reveals the Father. Christ is “the image of the invisible God,” through whom we see the Father. In the midst of history the Son’s command holds the created order in existence (“upholds the universe by the word of His power), preserving it from destruction until that day when His voice will remove all but the unshakable kingdom of God and its heirs. The “purification of sins” reminds us of the Son’s atoning death in history, the priestly act that cleanses us to worship in God’s presence. The Son’s enthronement at God’s “right hand” in heaven, promised in Ps. 110:1, reveals His superiority in two ways. At the “right hand” of the majesty of Christ is ministering in the true, heavenly sanctuary and not an earthly copy. Secondly, He “sat down” because His sacrificial work (unlike that of Levitical priests) was finished once and for all. Today take some time to read, and re-read through this, and truly see Christ in a deeper light than he is typically portrayed.

Daily Word

Today we begin in the book of Hebrews. The prologue introduces the two time periods in God’s speaking to His people: “Long ago” and “these last days.” The Son’s coming marks our time period as the “latter days” of salvation promised through the prophets. The piecemeal character of prophetic revelation showed its incompleteness (“at many times), just as the repetition of animal sacrifices showed that they could not remove guilt. “In many ways” included visions, dreams, and dark sayings. “God Spoke is an important theme throughout Hebrews to be watchful for. “His Son” this revelation is qualitatively superior to that given through the prophets. Moses, the greatest prophet, was only a servant in God’s house; Christ is “over God’s house as Son.” The Son speaks, as the prophets did, but speaks as the Son whose revelation is final. The Son’s supremacy will be displayed at the end of history, for “all things were created…for Him” (heir of all things). He is the first born, the preeminent heir, whose enemies will be put under His feet. As God’s adopted sons through Jesus, we to are heirs. The son’s supremacy was displayed at the dawn of history, for “by him all things were created” (through whom…He created the world). The Greek word rendered “world” is lit. “ages” also “universe” in highlighting the successive periods of history in the created order. Later in Verses 10-12 quote Ps. 102:25-27 as testimony to the Son’s role in creation and His eternal preeminence, in contrast to the created universe. Re-read those first two verses and meditate on the fact that God has been speaking to us for a very long time. Do you hear Him today speaking to you through His son Jesus the Christ?

Daily Word

Now to Him who is able to strengthen you according to my gospel and the preaching of the Lord Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery that was kept secret for long ages but has now been disclosed and through the prophetic writings has been made known to all nations, according to the command of all the eternal God, to bring about the obedience of faith- to the only wise God be glory forevermore through Jesus Christ! Amen. Romans 16: 25-27. The authenticity of this closing doxology is questioned by some on the grounds of its length, its emphasis on mystery, and its textual history. There is, however, a certain appropriateness about its length, coming at the end of a letter like Romans. Its themes draw to a fitting conclusion much that has already been said. In particular, Paul draws attention to his own teaching of the gospel and its power to edify, to the revelation of God’s mystery, to the faith and obedience among nations, and to the wisdom of God in redemption. Today we conclude our walk through the Book of Romans, I pray these daily devotional post have encouraged, strengthened, and help start your day off on a positive foot. I will begin in a new book tomorrow… Have a blessed day!

Weekend Quote (Sun)

"Churches don’t need new members half as much as they need the old bunch made over." ~ Billy Sunday

Weekend Quote (Sat)

Never once did it occur to me that when I found the trail again, it would ruin my life forever. For once you feel the breath of God breath on your skin, you can never turn back, you can never settle for what was, you can only move recklessly, with abandon, your heart filled with fear and your ears ringing with those constant words, “fear not.” ~ Mike Yacconelli

Daily Word

For your obedience is known to all, so that I rejoice over you, but I want you to be wise as to what is good and innocent as to what is evil. The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Romans 16-19,20. The Romans need spiritual wisdom (innocent) and hearts without any alloy of evil. Prior to the closing greeting and doxology, Paul includes a promise of a prophetic nature, rooted in the first biblical deliverance promise in Gen. 3:15. Satan is the source of all “evil.” “The God of peace” (wholeness and integrity as well as tranquility) will act as the Divine Warrior to overcome him. This will take place “soon .” Paul may be speaking here of matters in the near future, or about the last things, which by faith is always seen as near at hand. What would it look like, and mean to you that “your obedience is known to all?” If not…Why not?

Daily Word

I appeal to you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the doctrine that you have been taught; avoid them. For such persons do not serve our Lord Christ, but their own appetites, and by smooth talk and flattery they deceive the hearts of the naïve. Romans 16:17-18. Christians must be alert, for these false teachers and divisive people are attractive in speech and are motivated by selfish desires. Do the things that you believe in…that build the foundation in the core of who you are in Christ come from your personal studies/search through the scriptures or from that which is simply spoken to you from the pulpit each week? Do you believe and follow what God has spoken to you or what man has spoken to you with out the Father’s confirmation?

Daily Word

Greet also the church in their house. Greet my beloved Epaenetus, who was the first convert to Christ in Asia. Greet Mary, who has worked hard for you. Greet Andronicus and Junia, my kinsmen and fellow prisoners. They are well known to the apostles, and they were in Christ before me. Greet Ampliatus, my beloved in the Lord. Greet Urbanus, our fellow worker in Christ, and my beloved Stachchys. Greet Apelles, who is approved in Christ. Greet those who belong to the family of Aristobulus. Greet my kinsmen Herodion. Greet those in the Lord who belong to the family of Narcissus. Greet those workers in the Lord Tryhaena and Tryphosa. Greet the beloved Persis, who has worked hard in the Lord. Greet Rufus, chosen in the Lord; also his mother, who has been a mother to me as well. Greet Asyncritus, the brothers who were with them. Greet Philegon, Hermes, Patrobas, Hermas, and Philologus, Julia, Nereus, and his sister, and Olympas, and all the saints who are with them. Greet one another with a holy kiss. All the churches of Chris greet you. Romans 16:5-16. Paul recognized the devoted service of women. According to early commentators Andronicus and Junia were husband and wife. They were fellow Jews, and had been converted (“In Christ”) before Paul himself. They had apparently been in prison at some time with Paul and had served with distinction as special envoys (“apostles”) of the churches. The use of “apostle” is broader than the strict sense of the twelve plus Paul. Ampliatus, probably a slave, whose name appears on a tomb in the catacomb of Domitilla, niece of the Emperor Domitian. Urbanus/Stachys were common slave names, the former Roman, the latter Greek. Apelles was a common Greek name, borne by one who had distinguished himself through trial and remained faithful. Herodian, was perhaps a freedman of the household of Herod, since freedmen took the name of their patron. “Rufus, chosen in the Lord,” is one of the most intriguing of the names listed in view of Mark 15:21, a gospel possibly written in Rome. “Chosen” may reflect the unique circumstances that brought his family into contact with Christ. Paul’s allusion to the mother as “his mother…to me as well” suggests deep affection for the family. Today is a longer posting than usual because I think it important to reflect over all these names and recognize that none of these people were pointed to because they healed the sick, lame, or blind. Or any other miraculous demonstration of Christ. They simply ordinary people who served, and were recognized because of their passion, humbleness, and loyalty to Christ and those of the body of Christ…fellow believers. How will you be remembered?

Daily Word

Greet Prisca and Aquila, my fellow workers in Christ Jesus, who risked their necks for my life, to whom not only I give thanks but all churches of the Gentiles give thanks as well. Romans 16:3-4. The couple were tent makers like Paul. He was with them in Corinth. They had left Rome following the decree of Claudius and accompanied Paul to Ephesus. They taught Apollos and later returned to Rome. We know that many of the early church lost their lives for their conviction and belief in Christ Jesus. Many today still live in fear and lose their lives over their beliefs. I wonder how many Christians today would risk their necks on account of a fellow believer in Christ. It’s easy to say “I would,” but, in reality most can’t or won’t even share the gospel with a neighbor, co-worker, or family member. Today, front yourself out to those around you living an example of exactly who it is that is Lord of your life. If your afraid to risk your self you’ll never risk for another.

Daily Word

I commend to you our sister Phoebe, a servant of the church at Cenchreae, that you may welcome in the Lord in a way worthy of the saints, and help her in whatever she may need from you, for she has been a patron of many and of myself as well.. Romans 16:1-2. Paul’s letters typically end with personal news and greetings. The closing chapter of Romans is remarkable for the large number of fellow believers mentioned. These verses give insight into the warmth of the apostle’s personal relationships as well as the fellowship of the early Christians. Paul’s word (Greek diakonos) is variously translated as “servant”, or “deacon”. It is uncertain whether Paul uses the term to refer to the specific church office of deacon, or describes Phoebe as a servant of the church in a more general sense. Today’s churches can found in many sizes from Mega (thousands) to smaller (25+), and anything in between. One doesn't have to look far to find another with a story of having been “hurt” or “offended” while attending another church. Others simply “stay away” from churches because they falsely believe they don’t need to attend “church.” The truth plain and simple is this my friends…We, YOU and I are of a corrupt nature in which nothing good dwells, and while We are all striving to become “Christ like” we often fall short of the goal. There are far to many components to that to get into right now. However, we must recognize that whatever comes our way is an opportunity for growth in some way be it in character, or in practice of our fruits of the Holy Spirit. We are called to be and act in fellowship with one another within the body of Christ, and within that unique relationship we are given extraordinary opportunities to serve others. When was the last time someone referred to you as a “servant of the church?”

Weekend Quote (Sun)

When conscience begins to awaken by God, we either become subtle hypocrites or saints, that is, either we let God’s law working through conscience bring us to a place where we can be put right, or we begin to hoodwink ourselves, to affect a religious pose, not before other people, but before ourselves, in order to appease conscience - anything to be kept out of the real presence of God because wherever He comes He disturbs. ~ Oswald Chambers

Weekend Quote (Sat)

Every false accusation, every slander, every ill word spoken about me is an opportunity for me to grow in my sanctification. ~ R.C. Sproul

Daily Word

I appeal to you, brothers, by our Lord Jesus Christ and by the love of the Spirit, to strive together with me in your prayers to God on my behalf, that I may be delivered from unbelievers in Judea, and that my service in Jerusalem may be acceptable to the saints, so that by God’s will I may come to you with joy and be refreshed in your company. May the God of peace be with you all. Romans 15:30-33. Paul’s concern is two fold: a) that he may be protected from the hostility of the Jews that has marked the whole of his ministry; b) that Jewish Christians in Jerusalem will respond to the Gentile gift, sealing the apostle’s ministry. “The God of peace” is one of Paul’s favorite references for God, but particularly appropriate here in regard to his present struggle. Some believe that those prayers were never answered because of what happened to Paul. However, Paul still made it to Rome just not in the manner in which he or they had anticipated. Even as a prisoner Paul entered Rome with the Joy of Christ and as an encouragement for fellow Christians. When your looking to God for one direction and He brings about another completely opposite from what you wanted .Do you find yourself bent out of shape and complaining about it or do you look past what you wanted and get about the Father’s business?

Daily Word

When therefore I have completed this and have delivered to them what has been collected, I will leave fro Spain by way of you. I know that when I come to you I will come in the fullness of the blessing of Christ. Romans 15:28-29. After the collection has been delivered in Jerusalem, Paul plans to travel to Rome and then on to Spain. Paul was imprisoned, however, after he arrived in Jerusalem. Paul’s plan to come to Rome was realized, but not in the way he intended, since he arrived in Rome as a prisoner. How often do we set our minds on where we will go or what we will do only to have those plans interrupted and changed to something different? Think about this one for a few and be reminded that His plans are not our plans, and our plans are not His plans. Have you surrendered enough to become adaptable to His change to serve His purpose in everyday life?

Daily Word

At present, however, I am going to Jerusalem bringing aid to the saints. For Macedonia and Achaia have been pleased to make some contribution for the poor among the saints at Jerusalem. For they were pleased to do it, and indeed they owe it to them. For if the Gentiles have come to share in their spiritual blessings, they ought also to be of service to them in material blessings. Romans 15:25-27. The gladness of the Gentiles in providing for the needs of the Jewish Christians is fitting. They stand in debt to the Jews, for they enjoy the spiritual blessings of the Jewish people and hence should happily assist them financially. Paul assumes that financial aid for the needy Christian is a normal part of the Christian life. I truly wonder how a letter would read from Paul today…Why is it we look out at the un-saved and feel it our Christian duty to help feed them or clothe them; yet when we see or know of someone within the body we seem to look the other way? When was the last time you reached out to someone with in your own church body and lent a helping hand? You do not score any more points with God helping a non-believer than you do a believer!

Daily Word

This is the reason I have so often been hindered from coming to you. But now, since I no longer have any room for work in these regions, and sense I have longed for many years to come to you, I hope to see you in passing as I go to Spain, and to be helped on my journey there by you, once I have enjoyed your company for a while. Romans 15: 22-24 Paul now discloses his immediate plans to visit Jerusalem with the gifts the churches had raised for the Christians there. Jerusalem was an impoverished city in general; in addition, the Christians there would suffer particular hardship as a suspect minority. But Paul sees a significance deeper than charity in the gift. It is a duty, a solemn obligation of the Gentiles in view of the privileged they have received in being grafted into God’s olive tree. This conforms to the general principle that those who receive spiritual blessings should share their own material blessings. Today, recognize all the blessings that God has provided you in this life, and determine not to withhold ANYTHING from ANYONE be it material or spiritual gifts.

Daily Word

And thus I make it my ambition to preach the gospel, not where Christ has already been named, lest I build on someone else’s foundation, but as it is written, “ those who have never been told of him will see, an those who have never heard will understand.”. Romans 15: 20-21. Paul’s aim was to preach the gospel in areas where no churches existed. His calling was not to plant churches where they already existed. Thereby he was fulfilling the prophesy of Isaiah 52:15. The servant was rejected by many (In His passion, Jesus was beaten into a shockingly inhuman mass of wounded flesh), so he will sprinkle many nations to make them clean. Kings (representing the nations) shall shut their mouths, awed by His wretched humiliation and exalted glory. “That which has not been told them” is revealed uniquely in the gospel. Today, the body of Christ has grossly, and inerrantly come to believe the road to reach non-believers is through a “feel good” or “genie Jesus” fix all mentality. The gospel needs no buttered up presentation. The Holy Spirit works within a man through the gospel itself not on presentation. The only outcome of a buttered up presentation is “False Converts.” I have yet to read anywhere that Paul used any worldly means of his day in his presentation of the gospel to reach the un-saved WHY should we? Learn the gospel and present it often and correctly it will change your life!

Weekend Quote (Sun)

“ The church has often been more concerned to prove itself right than to present the message which by its transforming effect is it’s own proof.” ~ Myron S. Augsburger

Weekend Quote (Sat)

Men that have their spirits heated and enraged and raising in bitter resentment when they are injured act as if they thought some strange thing had happening to them. Whereas they are very foolish in so thinking for it is no strange thing at all but only what was to be expected in a world like this. They therefore do not act wisely that allow their spirits to be ruffled by the injuries they suffer. ~ Jonathan Edwards

Daily Word

In Christ Jesus, then, I have reason to be proud of my work for God. For I will not venture to speak of anything except what Christ has accomplished through me to bring the Gentiles to obedience-by word and deed, by the power of signs and wonders, by the power of the spirit of God-so that from Jerusalem and all the way around to Illyricum I have fulfilled the ministry of the gospel of Christ; Romans 15-18-19. Paul summarizes up his whole ministry up to this point by saying that Christ accomplished His work through him by word and deed, that is, both by Paul’s preaching about Christ and by Paul’s actions (lifestyle, with mighty works) that accompanied those words. “By the power of signs and wonders” refers to the miracles that accompanied Paul’s gospel proclamation throughout his entire ministry. Such miracles gave a ”sign” of (or pointed to) the power of God, the divine origin of truth of the gospel, and God’s mercy and love for people. They were “wonders” in that people were amazed by them. Paul has fulfilled his mandate to preach the gospel among the Gentiles from Jerusalem to Illyricum. How can Paul say his work has been complete when many still have not heard the gospel in his area? It can be seen in other verses that churches were planted in key centers, and from there Paul’s coworkers will bring the gospel to out lying areas. People today run from church to church seeking “signs and wonders.” It is because there is such a lack of maturity that so many fail to recognize that “signs and wonders” occur daily in our own lives that more than prove the power of God. They are simply missed or over looked because have become so busy in our lives, and have become so much like the world that our expectation of “signs and wonders” is in an epic proportion. Today, look for “signs and wonders” in your daily life that prove the power of God!