
31-DAY EXPERIMENT
This is an amazing resource for you & your men.
This Wingman Nation customized devotional is written by Pastor Jay Dennis. It focuses on intentionally spending time in God’s word & reflecting on it.
Each day you will be given a memory verse that is available to print or be viewed from any mobile device with web capability.
We challenge you to go through 31-day experiment with us and continue your journey to becoming the man God created you to be.
REFLECT
This is a question that can transform your life when you apply it to your circumstances. It is a rhetorical question, so it assumes your answer will be “No.” You can take this question, and put it beside anything you are presently facing; and it will bring you an immediate God-perspective.
Let’s consider the context of this question, which was asked by the Lord Himself.
God had made a promise to Abraham and Sarah that they would have a child. However, three men—two of them being angels—approached Abraham by the Oaks of Mamre. Abraham undoubtedly recognized one as being deity— perhaps a pre-incarnate appearance of Jesus Christ. He said to Abraham that this time next year, he and Sarah would have a son. Keep in mind that Abraham was 99 years old and Sarah was 89, way past the child-bearing years. Sarah was listening to this conversation and responded with laughter. That laughter manifested doubt, and that was when the Lord asks the question, “Is anything too difficult for the Lord?”
Think about the power of each word of the question:
“Is anything”—”Anything” covers absolutely everything; nothing is excluded. This word, “Anything,” addresses your circumstances.
“Too difficult.”—The word “Difficult” here means “beyond one’s power or ability.” The shift is from your power or ability to God’s power and ability. Sarah’s womb was dead. The opportunity for child birth had passed; However, our God can take what seems to be a missed opportunity and give you a new opportunity. If you feel you have blown it because of something you did or didn’t do in your past, God can give you a new opportunity. He is the God of a second chance.
“For the Lord?” Consider Who is asking the question. It is the God Who is omnipotent; He can do absolutely anything. He knows exactly what He will do to address the difficulty you are facing. If there is no answer, He can create the answer with just a word. He is omniscient, meaning He knows everything past, present and future; therefore He knows exactly what you need, where you need it and when you need it. The Lord is omnipresent, meaning He can be everywhere at once, at all times. He is right in the middle of your situation. Faith answers the question, “Is anything too difficult for the Lord,” with a resounding, “No!”
DAILY DO IT
Today, think about your difficult situation. Is it a physical problem, a financial difficulty, a relationship issue or a family burden? Is it too much for God to handle? Absolutely not! Your peace and joy will begin the moment you release your need to the Lord, and trust Him to handle your situation.
Right now, fill in the blank: Is _________________ (your issue, circumstance, situation) too difficult for the Lord? Your answer to that question will determine your joy and peace, or lack of it. Release your “anything” to the God of all power, and start living in the blessing of the His promises.
QUOTE OF THE DAY
“Faith does not operate in the realm of the possible. There is no glory for God in that which is humanly possible. Faith begins where man’s power ends.”
–George Muller
REFLECT
Moses was the man God used as the instrument to lead His people out of Egyptian bondage; the one who came down from the mountain of God with a radiant glow and instructed the people in the Laws of God; and the man who led them through the Red Sea. Moses was gone. Can you imagine being the leader who follows Moses and takes his place? That is what God asked of Joshua. Moses’ resume is enough to make anyone feel inadequate in comparison.
Moses had died. He had not been allowed to cross over into the Promised Land with God’s people as a consequence of his disobedience. That would be under Joshua’s job description.
As Joshua took the mantle of leadership; he no doubt felt inadequate and insecure. Who wouldn’t? Moses was a superstar, and Joshua was just Moses’ helper. The verse today is the Lord reassuring Joshua. There is nothing like a word from God to bring you assurance, peace and joy. The Bible is the go-to source for every issue, insecurity, inadequacy and impossibility you face.
God wants you to succeed; He wants you to win; and you will IF you follow His directions and instructions. Here in today’s verse are God’s instructions to Joshua:
“Be strong and courageous.” It is a choice you make, not a feeling you feel. You act on what God told you to do. The courage and strength come when you obey God. Do not let fear paralyze you. Fear is the result of not fully trusting and obeying God. Continuing to seek God’s perspective will keep you from becoming dismayed or discouraged. Joshua knew that their destination, Canaan, was infested with thousands of powerful enemies. He also knew the people of God would have to cross the Jordan River during a flood stage. Worry gripped this man of God. None of us is immune to worry, or as I like to call it, the “What-If” syndrome. We all battle the “What-If” syndrome, don’t we?
Listen to this wonderful promise: “For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” There is no place you can go inside the will of God, where God will not be with you to help you. There is no situation, circumstance, grief, fear or bad news that will ever cause God to walk away from you and leave you alone. That is what the incarnation is all about. One of Jesus’ names is “Immanuel,” which means, “God With Us!” Hallelujah! You are never alone.
DAILY DO IT
What has you worried? Is there someone you need to confront, and you are feeling nervous? Is there an issue that you are putting off dealing with because it is too uncomfortable? Is there someone who makes you feel insecure or inadequate? Is there a fear of something that has you paralyzed or discouraged?
Right now, add your name to this promise and listen to the power of these words: ____________(your name), be strong and courageous! ____________ (your name), do not tremble or be dismayed, for ____________ (your name), your God is with you wherever you go.
When you do that, your whole perspective begins to change.
QUOTE OF THE DAY
“So Long, Insecurity: You’ve Been a Bad Friend to Us.”
— Beth Moore
REFLECT
There is no book like the Bible, God’s Word. Every word of the Bible is true. There is no circumstance in which the Bible does not do what it promises. It is the most unique book ever written.
The Bible was written:
- Over a 1500-year span (from 1400 B.C to A.D. 100).
- Over 40 generations.
- Over 40 authors from many walks of life (i.e. – kings, peasants, philosophers, fishermen, poets, statesmen, scholars).
- In different places (i.e. – wilderness, dungeon, palaces).
- At different times (i.e. – war, peace).
- In different moods (i.e. – heights of joy, depths of despair).
- On three continents (Asia, Africa, and Europe).
- In three languages (Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek).
allaboutgod.com
The Bible reads as if it was written by only one author, and indeed it was. God is the author. He spoke through human personalities.
In fact, the Bible is the only Book whose author shows up every time you read it. In the Book of Isaiah, there is a promise attached to God’s Holy Word. The grass, beautiful and green one day, will wither a in few days. The flower, beaming with beauty one day, will fade within a few days. However, when it comes to God’s Word, the Bible, it never fades, withers, weakens, wilts or shrinks.
People die, but the Word of God remains. Circumstances change; His Word does not. Feelings come and go, yet the Bible is constant. Seasons change, but God’s Word endures.
The one thing you can always count on is the Word of God. It is an eternal and alive book. It speaks directly to whatever circumstance you are facing at the moment. That is why you can read a verse one day, and it has a specific meaning to you; yet read it another day; and it speaks to you in a different way. You can never exhaust the Bible.
When the fog of bad circumstances clears, and the cloud of doubt is lifted, there will be one thing still standing, and that is the Word of God. Only two things are eternal—people and God’s Word. Let God’s eternal Word saturate your soul—your mind, will and emotions.
DAILY DO IT
Today, take a moment to do three things:
- Thank God for His Word. Thank Him for how this Book has touched and changed your life. Thank Him for His promises recorded in the Bible. Thank Him for the comfort the Bible brings when you are down and the conviction it brings when you are wrong.
- Read Isaiah 40:28-31, and list the promises found in God’s Word in these verses.
- Recommit to reading the Bible every day. In just 15 minutes a day you can read the Bible through in a year.
QUOTE OF THE DAY
“If you have a Bible that’s falling apart, you’ll have a life that’s not.”
—Adrian Rogers
REFLECT
God had made a promise to His people, Israel, that He would bring them out of Babylonian exile, an exile that was the result of not obeying Him through their worship of idols. For 70 years they remained in Babylonian Captivity. They paid a high price for their disobedience. However, the day would come when God would restore the nation of Israel and lead them out of captivity.
Maybe you are facing your own captivity right now. That is, you find yourself in the middle of a mess or bad situation, whether it is a result of your own doing or it is no fault of you own. While you are there, you may feel like God is nowhere to be found. That is exactly what this promise is about—finding God, even in the worst situations.
This promise from God contains amazing news—God Can Be Found!!! God wants you to find Him, to know Him and to experience Him. He desires to have a relationship with you. “Find” means “to encounter or discover.” God wants you to encounter, to experience Him. He wants you to discover His will—His plan, purpose and direction for your life. God is not playing hide and seek with you. The God Who created the universe wants you to know Him personally. He has even come to Earth in-person to demonstrate His passion to know you.
But there is a condition to encountering or experiencing God, and it is that you must seek and search for Him with all of your heart. How do you seek God Through reading His Word, obeying Him, praising Him, thanking Him, talking to Him, listening for His voice and looking for Him every minute of every day? This is a passionate pursuit of God Himself, with your mind, emotions and will. You aren’t seeking Him, so He can do something for you; you are seeking Him so you can know Him.
How badly do you want to experience God? What price are you willing to pay to encounter the Living Lord? Go hard after God. Chase God. Pursue God. You will find Him. He promises. Don’t give up, and don’t get discouraged. You may discover God in the most unlikely place or unlikely person. The discovery of God is often found in your pursuit of Him. You will discover His power, His peace, His joy, His blessing, His favor and His wisdom.
God never hides from those who seek Him with all their heart. When you find Him, you will find a God Who welcomes you, embraces you, receives you and is ready to bless you.
DAILY DO IT
Right now, tell God that you are willing to pay any price to experience Him. Think about what that means. It might mean giving up certain things that are distancing you from God. Commit that all day today, you will go hard after God. Look for God every place you go and in every person you encounter. You might be amazed where you find Him.
QUOTES OF THE DAY
“Lord teach me to seek Your face and not just Your hand. I want to know Who You are and not just what You can do for me”
–aproverbswife.com
“The most common mistake Christians make in worship today is seeking an experience rather than seeking God”
–Rick Warren
REFLECT
The Book of Lamentations was written by the prophet Jeremiah. He has been called “the weeping prophet” because he is often crying out to God. He is a man of God who battled depression, who understood the dark side, life in a minor key. He was lamenting (weeping) over the destruction of Jerusalem by Babylon. He saw the pain, suffering and anguish that resulted from the destruction. God’s people had given themselves to idols, and God showed them the consequences of hanging onto sin.
Christians battle discouragement and depression, too. Whether from your own disobedience or no fault of your own, life can hold some difficult moments. As Jeremiah was reflecting on how bad the situation was, he said he looked back and considered that God had never not kept His Word. That thought alone brought him hope. He focused on the Lord’s continual love and never-failing kindness. As each day brings its own set of problems and challenges, God is there ready to supply everything that is needed to get through that day. From Lamentations 3:21-25, there are five truths that will never fail:
- God will never stop loving you, even though you may not feel it at the moment (3:22).
- God will work today in your life because of Who He is, even though you may not see it at the moment (3:23).
- God is faithful to His promises, even when it seems like He is not (3:23).
- God will meet your every need, even though it may appear you are drowning in a sea of doubt (3:24).
- God is good, even when things look bad (3:25).
DAILY DO IT
Right now, review the five truths above. Say them out loud. Then, for a moment, look in the rear-view mirror of your life and ask, “Has God ever left me?” “Has God ever not kept His Word to me?” “Has God ever gone back on His Word?” When you think about how God has been with you and how He has come through for you in the past, it gives you great cause for joy as you face the future.
QUOTE OF THE DAY
“God’s faithfulness means that God will always do what He has said and fulfill what He has promised.”
– Wayne Grudem
REFLECT
Habbakkuk was a prophet during the reign of an evil King. Evil appeared to be flourishing, and God seemed to remain silent. Habbakkuk communicated his frustration to God. It seemed as though God wasn’t doing anything about the evil, and the prophet dared to pour out his frustration. There is a dialogue between Habakkuk and God. In the last verses of the last chapter of the Book that bears his name, Habakkuk surrenders to God and chooses to believe that no matter what, God is God and He is in control.
Habakkuk lists the worst-case scenarios that could happen to him. He describes difficulties, tragedy, disappointments and discouraging circumstances. He then tells what his response will be to anything that happens. He made a choice about how to respond before the situation happened. In some versions, the word “nevertheless” is used. Perhaps this is the “Nevertheless Factor,” the “No-Matter-What Factor.” It is something you need to do as a believer. You need to decide beforehand how you will respond.
“I will exult in the Lord.” The idea is, “praise the Lord anyway.” This is a matter of the will, not a matter of the “feel.” It is a choice you make. You can always choose to worship and praise God.
Then Habakkuk said, “I will rejoice in the God of my salvation.” He chose to rejoice because he has the greatest reason to experience joy, which is his salvation. The most profound decision a person can make is to personally receive Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord. No matter what happens to you, you are still going to heaven; you are still going to miss hell. The only source of salvation is Jesus Christ. Why don’t you begin praising God right now for your salvation? May we never take for granted what Jesus did for us at the cross.
How can you have joy in the midst of bad things? Because God is your strength, God is your source of joy.
DAILY DO IT
I have no way of knowing what is going on in your life right now; however, I do know God is still God; and as you choose to praise Him, great peace and joy have the best opportunity to enter your heart.
Today beginning practicing the “Nevertheless Factor.” What is weighing you down and discouraging you? What is causing you the greatest stress?
List the number-one stress in your life. Write it down. Now, say the words, “Nevertheless, I will Praise the God of my salvation.”
QUOTE OF THE DAY
“Only God can turn a mess into a message, a test into a testimony, a trial into a triumph, a victim into victory.”
—Anonymous
REFLECT
As men, we must beware of trying to pull things off in our own strength or “fix” every problem. We are wired in such a way to want to take matters into our own hands, and make it happen. We want to fix it! For many things in life, that mindset may be okay; but when it comes to spiritual power and power to control our thoughts, emotions, actions, words and attitudes, we desperately need help that only God can provide.
Zechariah was a younger prophet whose words brought hope and encouragement to Israel, God’s people, who had returned from Babylonian captivity. He brought hope as they attempted to rebuild the Temple. His prophecies speak of both the first and second coming of the Messiah, Jesus Christ. An angel was speaking a vision to Zechariah when he reminded him of this powerful truth.
The Lord informs Zechariah that it is not by “might”—military power or individual strength—that victory comes. It is through the Holy Spirit. Every believer possesses the Holy Spirit. He comes into your life the moment of your salvation. However, there is a difference between possessing the Holy Spirit and being controlled by the Holy Spirit. One is something that is done to you, the other is something done by you.
Ephesians 5:18, “And do not get drunk with wine, for that is dissipation, but be filled with the Spirit”
Every believer is commanded to be filled or controlled by, the Holy Spirit. How do you realize God’s power practically in your life? By being filled or controlled by the Holy Spirit.
DAILY DO IT
- Confess every known sin. Leave nothing unconfessed.
- Repent—turn from your sin.
- Submit to God—surrender to His will.
- Ask the Holy Spirit to fill you, control you, and
- By faith believe that He has.
- Live in purity.
What Zechariah (4:6) and Paul (Ephesians 5:18) are saying is the Holy Spirit must be more than just a resident; He must be president—in control.
QUOTE OF THE DAY
“The Holy Spirit is the gift of the Risen Christ. His anointing filling, empowering work is a baptism of love that gives power to make Jesus real to you and known to others.”
—Winkie Pratney
REFLECT
Paul, writing to the Church at Thessalonica, gives a litany of practical advice on how to live your faith out loud. This verse is packed with counsel on pleasing God. If you are not careful you, as a man, can become ungrateful and take for granted all the good things God has done and is doing for you. Practicing this verse helps you to guard against that. Let’s dissect these words and apply them to daily life.
Notice Paul said, “In everything,” not “for everything.” What is the difference? It would be hard to be thankful for everything that happens because there are things that happen that are evil and tragic. However, “In” everything implies that no matter what happens, you can thank God for how He will use it for His glory, for good in the world and for your growth personally. It has nothing to do with feelings, it has everything to do with a choice you make. You choose to be thankful in all things, knowing that only God can bring something eternally significant out of your circumstances or situation.
When you choose to be thankful, you announce that although the problem or circumstance you are facing is bigger than you are, it is not bigger than God. A thankful spirit is your way of releasing your situation to God’s control. Thankfulness is about you turning control of your life over to the Lord Jesus Christ.
Notice, thankfulness is God’s will. Whenever you are thankful, you are in the center of God’s will. You can do this because of Jesus Christ, the One Who faced the worst possible circumstance and overcame it on the third day.
What is the most difficult issue you are facing right now? What is it you are struggling with or battling? There is something you can do.
DAILY DO IT
Today, do these two things:
- Make a list of the three people who have most influenced you, and thank God for them. Contact them today someway, and tell them how much they mean to you.
- List the most difficult issue you are facing right now. Write it out. Then, start thanking God for how He is going to bring glory to Himself through it, growth to you and good to the world.
QUOTE OF THE DAY
“Giving thanks IN everything shows a heart of faith that God is bigger than the difficulties and that He can use them, if you approach Him with the right heart and spirit, for your good and His glory.”
–Tony Evans
REFLECT
In Chapter Ten of the book of Hebrews, the writer gives truths of great hope and an encouragement to persevere during times of difficulty. We discover in this chapter that Jesus Christ’s sacrifice is enough to pay for the sin of the world, to pay for your sin. I love the idea of, “Jesus Is Enough.”
In verse 23, we have these motiving words: “Hold fast,” which means “to not let go, to never let go regardless.” Our hope is found in only one place, and that is in Jesus. Our confession is, “Jesus is Who He says He is, and Jesus will do what He says He will do. Park here!
“Hope” is the expectation that something better, something good is coming. It is the belief that when we involve Jesus Christ, good always comes. “Without wavering” implies that there will be times when it is tough to hang onto hope, but we must continue. We must never give up. The reason you can hang onto hope is found in the last part of the verse: “for He who promised is faithful.” When Jesus is the one making the promise, it will never fail. Our Savior is the Never-Failing Lord.
“Hold fast” means, “To take firm possession of.” Embrace the fact that the Savior you serve overcame the most powerful enemy ever, death, and that there is no situation that is more powerful than Jesus Christ. Our confession of hope is based on the fact that Jesus died on Friday and rose again on Sunday. His resurrection turns hopeless situations into choirs of praise.
Keep your eyes on Jesus Christ. People, even those with the best of intentions, will let you down. There are times they will disappoint you. However, Jesus Christ will never disappoint you. He will never let you go.
DAILY DO IT
Draw a line down the middle of a piece of paper. On one side of the paper, write the names of those who have disappointed you. On the other side of the paper, write the name Jesus.
Be specific about how you were disappointed by each person? Now look at the name of Jesus. Ask yourself, “Has Jesus ever disappointed me?” “Has Jesus ever let me down?” “Has Jesus ever not done something He told me He would do?” Today, get your eyes off those who have disappointed you and let you down, and focus on Jesus Christ. He is faithful to keep his promises
QUOTE OF THE DAY
“My future is as bright as the promises of God.”
— Adoniram Judson, Missionary
 
REFLECT
There are many things in life that are constantly changing. Virtually nothing stays the same. From the complex, such as technology; to the simple, such as the seasons, things are in a constant state of change.
Yet there is one unchangeable reality, and that is Jesus Christ. He had no beginning and will have no end, in fact He declares Himself to be the beginning and the end.
“Same” means “unchangeable.” Notice Jesus is unchangeable “yesterday,” “today” and “forever”—past, present and future.
He is the same “yesterday.” When you look back you will discover that Jesus never failed you. He may not have come through in the way you thought or even when you hoped, but He did come through. He has never been late.
He is the same “today,” which means in this moment, in your present situation, He is there; He is available to you. He is at work all around you in people and in circumstances.
Jesus will be the same “tomorrow.” You can count on Him. He will be there for you. You never have to worry that He will abandon or betray you—He will not. The great hymn says, “Because He Lives, I can face tomorrow.” So, no matter what comes your way, Jesus Christ, the Son of the living God, will be there to comfort, encourage and empower you.
As great as some of the leaders of the past were, there is not one of who has died that you can call upon right now. You cannot seek their advice or counsel. However, Jesus is right here, right now. He is as close as your prayer.
The overall teaching of this amazing verse is God is in control of time—past, present and future. You can be absolutely certain that He is always on time.
DAILY DO IT
Try this exercise:
- What were you worried about one year ago from today?
- What person was causing you difficulty this time a year ago?
- What financial issue were you facing this time a year ago?
- What were you fearful of a year ago?
Did any of these people or situations destroy you? You are still here, you are still breathing, you are still serving God, you are still moving forward. The same God who got you through those difficult times is the same God Who will carry you through now and into the future and tomorrow and the next day and the next…
QUOTE OF THE DAY
“Our ever-changing culture needs the never-changing Christ who alone can provide both the foundation and direction for Christian faith and practice as the church faces the challenges of a new era.”
— Dr. Daniel Akin
REFLECT
James, the half-brother of Jesus, gives one of the greatest promises in all the Bible. This promise has brought comfort and encouragement to every child of God and in every conceivable circumstance that life could bring. This promise gives the steps to overcome Satan every time, and it never fails. There are three steps and two specific promises.
Step 1: James tells the believer to first, “submit…to God.” Submission is “surrender, to release control over, to place yourself under the authority of, to submit to one’s control.” In other words, you are no longer in control; God is. When you submit to God, you have all the resources of heaven available to you.
Step 2: “Resist the devil.” “The devil,” Satan, is a real enemy; he is not just a force of evil. He knows what will tend to defeat you, where you are most likely to be defeated, and when you most likely will succumb to temptation. The word “Resist” means “to oppose, to stand against, to withstand.” It is an intentional, deliberate opposition to Satan. The promise is that he will flee, he will leave, he will exit in defeat. Wow, what a promise!
“Draw near to God” means “to approach.” God is approachable. You can approach Him through prayer, through opening His Word, through obedience to His will and through worship. When you do, the promise is that God draws near to you, He approaches you. The next move is yours. God is waiting on you to take the first step toward Him. Sometimes pride—wanting your way instead of God’s way—keeps us from taking this step. Drawing near to God is not a feeling; it is a willful choice.
DAILY DO IT
Ask the Holy Spirit right now, “Is there anything in my life I have not surrendered to the Lordship of Jesus Christ?” Is there a habit you have not surrendered? Is there a relationship you have not surrendered? Is there an area of your life…Is there a grudge or spirit of un-forgiveness you have not surrendered? Let’s focus on that for a moment. Is there someone who has wounded or offended you whom you have not forgiven? Right now, surrender your right to hurt back the person who hurt you. Forgiveness is not a feeling, it is a choice you make. Un-forgiveness may be the area where Satan has found a stronghold in your life, and it is blockading what God wants to do in and through you. Chose to let it go!
QUOTE OF THE DAY
“God is ready to assume full responsibility for the life wholly yielded to Him.”
— Andrew Murray
REFLECT
The setting is the ultimate home for every child of God—heaven. The elders represent believers, you and me. The angels are also there. Every Christian is present in this scene. Jesus Himself is at center stage. All eyes are on Him. There is great celebration going on in heaven. The strong angel leads a chorus of praise that has seven stanzas. There are seven words in today’s verse that describe the praise and the worth of the Lord Jesus Christ. Notice these words:
1. “Power”—Jesus has all power over life and death, circumstances and tragedies, Satan and demons.
2. “Riches”—Jesus owns it all. He is the richest Person in history, past, present and future. The angel acknowledges His ownership of everything.
3. “Wisdom”—Jesus can handle anything you’re having to handle. He knows what to do in every situation—yours included.
4. “Might”—He has all strength in order to do anything at anytime and anywhere.
5. “Honor”—Jesus has the utmost value, acclaim and esteem. He gets all the credit.
6. “Glory”—He alone is worthy to receive all your approval all of the time.
7. “Blessing”—means saying something good about someone. It’s where we get the word “eulogy.” “Blessing” also means “happiness.” The picture is every child of God with one voice blesses Jesus Christ and acknowledges that He alone is the source of our happiness.
There is no one like Jesus Christ. He is worthy of all your time and attention in focused praise for who He is and for what He has done. Throughout eternity, we will praise Him.
DAILY DO IT
Today, think about ways to express your praise and gratitude to the Lord Jesus Christ. In Psalm 119:164. we are told, “Seven times a day I praise You, because of Your righteous ordinances.”
Set the alarm on your clock or phone for the following times:
1. 8:00 AM –Praise Jesus for His Power.
2. 10:00 AM—Praise Jesus for His Riches, His owning everything.
3. Noon—Praise Him for His Wisdom, that He knows what to do in every situation
4. 2:00 PM—Praise Him for His Might, that He can create an answer to any problem.
5. 5:00 PM—Praise Him for His Honor, giving Him all the credit for everything good in your life and in the world.
6. 8:00 PM—Praise Him for His Glory, expressing your belief that He alone deserves our worship.
7. 10:00 PM—Praise Him for His Blessings, that He alone is the source of our happiness.
QUOTE OF THE DAY
“Of all the things Christ wants for us, loving Him and focusing our attention on Him are the most important.”
— Charles Stanley
REFLECT
The setting is the ultimate home for every child of God—heaven. The elders represent believers, you and me. The angels are also there. Every Christian is present in this scene. Jesus Himself is at center stage. All eyes are on Him. There is great celebration going on in heaven. The strong angel leads a chorus of praise that has seven stanzas. There are seven words in today’s verse that describe the praise and the worth of the Lord Jesus Christ. Notice these words:
1. “Power”—Jesus has all power over life and death, circumstances and tragedies, Satan and demons.
2. “Riches”—Jesus owns it all. He is the richest Person in history, past, present and future. The angel acknowledges His ownership of everything.
3. “Wisdom”—Jesus can handle anything you’re having to handle. He knows what to do in every situation—yours included.
4. “Might”—He has all strength in order to do anything at anytime and anywhere.
5. “Honor”—Jesus has the utmost value, acclaim and esteem. He gets all the credit.
6. “Glory”—He alone is worthy to receive all your approval all of the time.
7. “Blessing”—means saying something good about someone. It’s where we get the word “eulogy.” “Blessing” also means “happiness.” The picture is every child of God with one voice blesses Jesus Christ and acknowledges that He alone is the source of our happiness.
There is no one like Jesus Christ. He is worthy of all your time and attention in focused praise for who He is and for what He has done. Throughout eternity, we will praise Him.
DAILY DO IT
Today, think about ways to express your praise and gratitude to the Lord Jesus Christ. In Psalm 119:164. we are told, “Seven times a day I praise You, because of Your righteous ordinances.”
Set the alarm on your clock or phone for the following times:
1. 8:00 AM –Praise Jesus for His Power.
2. 10:00 AM—Praise Jesus for His Riches, His owning everything.
3. Noon—Praise Him for His Wisdom, that He knows what to do in every situation
4. 2:00 PM—Praise Him for His Might, that He can create an answer to any problem.
5. 5:00 PM—Praise Him for His Honor, giving Him all the credit for everything good in your life and in the world.
6. 8:00 PM—Praise Him for His Glory, expressing your belief that He alone deserves our worship.
7. 10:00 PM—Praise Him for His Blessings, that He alone is the source of our happiness.
QUOTE OF THE DAY
“Of all the things Christ wants for us, loving Him and focusing our attention on Him are the most important.”
— Charles Stanley
REFLECT
Have you ever experienced guilt and shame? Of course you have. Guilt is the feeling of dread and heaviness you experience when you have done something wrong. Shame, however, speaks more to who you are rather than what you have done. Shame makes you feel unworthy, inadequate and insecure. On the cross, Jesus Christ addressed guilt and shame. He did something so powerful that the ability of guilt and shame to destroy you was taken away—they were nailed to the cross.
In the beautiful chapter of Romans 8, Paul gave a reminder of all the benefits you possess the moment you come to Christ. Through confession and repentance, guilt and shame can be gone. Romans 8:1 is a declaration, a promise, that when a believer comes to Christ, his or her sin is forgiven and will never have to pay for. That’s what Jesus did—He paid the price for your sin!
The word “Therefore” is there for a reason. In chapter 7, Paul stated that a believer has victory because of the cross of Jesus Christ. So, based on that alone, and once you have received it, you have no condemnation. God does not hold you accountable for the sin that would send you to hell. Because of the cross, no sin too strong to say “no” to. Yet you will sin, and when you do, know that through Jesus, you can be forgiven. He declares you “Not guilty.” Satan, however, keeps saying “Guilty.” It is a matter of whom you are going to believe.
You cannot trust your feelings. They will lie to you and deceive you. You certainly cannot trust Satan—the Father of Lies. You must trust what God said, that when you are in Christ, you are no longer condemned. Notice “there is NOW no condemnation,” which means at this very moment, you are NOT condemned, nor will you ever be if you are “in Christ;” and you are in Christ when Christ is in you.
DAILY DO IT
What is in your life about which you feel guilty? What brings you shame? Was it something you have done or said? Was it the way you were raised, perhaps with a dad where your good enough was never good enough? Right now, bring your guilt and shame to the cross and surrender it to Jesus Christ. Commit that you will listen to what God says and not what your feelings, others or Satan say to you or about you. Thank God for His amazing grace!
QUOTE OF THE DAY
“What do you do with the person who says, ‘I’ve asked God to forgive me about this, but I still feel guilty’? I hear that statement over and over again. I usually say to these people, ‘If you still feel guilty, then pray to God again. But this time don’t ask him to forgive you for the sin that is haunting you. Rather, ask him to forgive you for insulting his integrity by refusing to accept his forgiveness. Who are you to refuse to forgive yourself when God has forgiven you? When God promises to forgive his people when they repent, he is not playing games. If he says he will forgive you, then he will forgive you. And if God forgives you, you are forgiven.’”
— R.C. Sproul
REFLECT
The angel had just announced to Mary that she, a virgin, would conceive and give birth to the Son of God, Jesus Christ. Can you even imagine what was going through Mary’s mind? “There is no possible way this can happen,” “It is simply impossible.” No doubt Mary asked the ancient, one-word question, “HOW?” We often ask the same question when we don’t know what to do.
This verse is a call to faith—a call to look beyond what we can see, feel, touch, taste or smell, and a call latch onto a word from God, a promise.
“Impossible” means “cannot be done.” Is there anything in your life you have labeled “impossible?”
“For nothing” means “no matter what it is.” You can fill in the blank. “For _____________ will not be impossible with God.”
What about cancer? Nothing!
What about a broken marriage? Nothing!
What about a prodigal child? Nothing!
What about a financial issue? Nothing
What about a wound from the past? Nothing!
God the Father, God the Son, God the Holy Spirit knows everything, can do anything and is present everywhere at all times. Someone said, “With God, nothing is Him-possible” (“Him” being our Lord God). So, let’s consider what is possible because of Him:
1. Salvation is possible—forgiving the sin that would send us to hell and forever securing an eternal home in heaven.
2. Overcoming sin is possible—any sin or situation Satan and the world throw at you.
3. Answered prayer is possible—calling on God and God promising to hear and answer prayer.
4. Peace is possible—the inner satisfaction of knowing God is in control.
5. Joy is possible—the inner gladness that comes from trusting what God says.
DAILY DO IT
Today, I want you to thank God for what He made possible in Christ Jesus. “Thank You God for saving my soul, for giving me overcoming power, for promising to answer my prayers, for giving me the peace that passes all understanding and for giving me joy that is based, not on what is happening around me, but on what You are doing within me.” Bring your impossible situation to God right now, and thank God that NOTHING is impossible with Him. Praise God for HIM-possibilities.
QUOTE OF THE DAY
“Darkness comes. In the middle of it, the future looks blank. The temptation to quit is huge. Don’t. You are in good company… You will argue with yourself that there is no way forward. But with God, nothing is impossible. He has more ropes and ladders and tunnels out of pits than you can conceive. Wait. Pray without ceasing. Hope.”
—John Piper
REFLECT
Jude is the half-brother of Jesus Christ. In his short yet powerful book, he gives a memorable doxology. His book is about defending the faith—the beliefs of Christianity.
Let’s dissect these words, “Now to Him who is able…” If you stop there you could never write enough about the fact that God is able, He has the power to do anything. God is up for any challenge.
Jude is saying that God has power to keep you from falling into sin and to keep you saved. You are eternally secure if you are saved. I like to use the phrase, “IF saved, ALWAYS saved.” Because of what Jesus did on the cross, when you receive it, you can stand before God without condemnation. “Keep” means to hold onto in a way that no one is able to snatch you or take you away from your relationship with God. Jesus not only has saving power, He has keeping power. This alone is cause for great praise.
“Savior” means “deliverer, rescuer.” Jesus is your rescuer, your deliverer. Notice God is the only God, and the only Savior. Jesus is the one and only way to heaven, and to a relationship with God the Father. These are powerful words that describe a believers’ praise to God.
“Glory” means “great honor, respect.” Jesus is worthy and can be compared to none other.
“Majesty” means greater than all. Jesus is greater than______(you fill in the blank).
“Dominion” means there is nothing He cannot do. He has no boundaries.
“Authority” means “rule.” Jesus Christ is in control of the world and in control of your world. From the past, even before creation, to the end of time as we know it and beyond, our God, the Lord Jesus Christ reigns! Hallelujah!
DAILY DO IT
Jude gives us an amazing benediction. A benediction is a conclusion of an event. A benediction can be expressing a goodbye.
Think about your benedictions—the way you leave someone, how you say goodbye, how you exit a conversation with someone. Jude concluded with great encouragement and hope centered on Jesus Christ.
Today, think about the way you leave people with whom you are talking or having a meeting. Be conscious that when you leave someone, they feel hopeful and encouraged. Leave people with you having pointed them to Jesus Christ. Leave people with them looking forward to the next time they see you. Also, keep in mind that this may be the last time you see him or her, or at least the last time you have the opportunity to make a first or lasting impression. Leaving someone in an encouraging and hopeful way keeps the door open for further communication about Jesus Christ.
QUOTE OF THE DAY
“You never get a second chance to make a first impression.”
—Author Unknown
REFLECT
I Corinthians 15 is the great resurrection chapter. Paul shows the benefits of the resurrection of Jesus Christ, and one of those benefits is daily power to live in victory over sin, Satan and self. As Paul shares on the ramifications of the resurrection, he seems to be shouting out the words of verse 57. “But thanks be to God!” He is praising God, thanking God, worshipping the God of the resurrection. Our Savior faced the worst of what life could do to Him, then He died. Yet, He did not stay dead. Someone said, “Jesus borrowed a tomb because He only needed it for the weekend!” Paul shouts notes of “Hallelujah!”
Notice, “who gives us.” The way these words are written literally means, “Who keeps on giving and giving and giving to us.”
“Victory” means “overcoming power, conquering, the ability to win over someone or something, to utterly vanquish.” Through Jesus Christ and his resurrection, God keeps on giving everything you need each day to live in victory over sin, Satan, self and situations. He never runs out of ways to bring you victory.
But, notice, the source of victory comes from only one place, “through our Lord Jesus Christ.” There is no one else who can bring you power to conquer your sin. There is no one else who can bring you the power to overcome Satan’s weapons and the world’s temptations.
Like Paul is doing, it is important that you and I never take for granted what Jesus Christ has done for us. Thank Him for this overcoming power.
DAILY DO IT
Take a moment to think about the following and fill in the blanks:
The sin that most often tempts me is _____________.
Satan most often attacks me when ________________.
The area I struggle with personally the most is __________________.
The situation I am facing right now that is causing me to worry is ___________________________.
The circumstance I am facing that is bringing me fear is ___________________________.
For each of these things, begin thanking God that through Jesus Christ, you have overcoming, conquering, more-than-winning power over them.
QUOTE OF THE DAY
“The reason why many fail in battle is because they wait until the hour of battle. The reason why others succeed is because they have gained their victory on their knees long before the battle came. Anticipate your battles; fight them on your knees before temptation comes, and you will always have victory.”
—R.A. Torrey
REFLECT
This is one of my all-time, favorite promises from the Lord Jesus Christ. In it He declares that He is enough. No matter what you are going through, you must know that Jesus Christ is enough. Paul was facing a physical issue that was causing him great pain. Three times he cried out to Jesus to remove the cause of the pain and to heal him. Jesus’ response was this promise.
“Grace” is God’s “able-ness”—His sufficiency, empowerment, merciful kindness and perspective. His grace truly is amazing. “Grace” means everything you and I need to live in power, purpose and victory. Notice the source of this sufficiency— “My,” refers to Jesus Christ. The word “Is” means this present moment. In every moment, God’s grace is enough. Notice the word “sufficient,” which means “to be enough.” Jesus is saying what he gives you each day is enough grace to get through anything life or Satan throws at you.
“For power if perfected in weakness.” “Perfected” means “to carry you through to completeness.” Every trial, burden and difficulty in your life comes with great purpose. Jesus will supply everything you need to get through each of them and you will know it was done in God’s strength, not your own.
For me, the big take-away in this verse is, “Jesus is enough.” No matter what you are facing, no matter how difficult the situation, and no matter how adverse the circumstance, Jesus Christ is enough for you.
DAILY DO IT
What physical, emotional, relational, financial, or vocational need do you have right now? List them below. For me, I suffer with chronic back pain.
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
God gives enough grace for today. So, it is a problem if you begin to worry about tomorrow when God gives grace only for today. Live in today’s grace, and when tomorrow comes, there will be a fresh, new supply of God’s “enough.”
Now, thank Jesus Christ that He will give you the grace to get through whatever you are facing. Tell Him, “Jesus, thank You for being enough for me.”
QUOTE OF THE DAY
“Your worst days are never so bad that you are beyond the reach of God’s grace. And your best days are never so good that you are beyond the need of God’s grace.”
–Jerry Bridges
REFLECT
Every man faces temptation, and there is no sin in the temptation. Simply put, temptation is an invitation to disobey God. Sometimes the invitations are very attractive. They can also blind you and hide the destruction until after you have said “yes.” Satan knows what will tempt you most. He knows where to tempt you and when to tempt you. Temptations have many “knocks.” Paul teaches that every man is tempted. Jesus Himself was tempted like no other man, and He refused to open the door to sin.
In this verse, God is shown to do something with each temptation that comes your way—He will provide a way out, and “God is faithful” to always provide the way out before you say “yes.”.
“Beyond what you are able.” No temptation is never bigger than your God, nor is it bigger than what you are able to do with His power and help. He gives you the ability to say “no.”
“But with the temptation will provide the way of escape.” It means “a way out, an exit.” “Able” means “to have the resources available to you.” “Endure” means “to bear up under, sustaining power to keep going.” With every temptation, God hands you an Exit Sign designed personally by Him.
DAILY DO IT
Consider an Exit Sign. When do you most often see one? Usually over a door. When you see an Exit Sign, it is an announcement that in case of fire or an emergency, there is a way out, an escape. Right now, thank God that no matter what temptation comes your way, He WILL put an Exit Sign over it.
Today, when temptation comes, look for the exit God promises to provide. Ask Him to give you wisdom and discernment to see His way out. It is important to look for Exit Signs even before the temptation comes—plan your escape route.
QUOTE OF THE DAY
“Temporary happiness is not worth long-term pain”
– Author Unknown
REFLECT
REFLECT
Isaiah was worshipping God. The King, Uzziah, had died. There are times when circumstances lead believers to look up in worship to God, to call on His name. In the worship experience, Isaiah encountered and experienced God.
Today’s verse teaches that worship involves, among other things, verbal expression. As Isaiah experienced God, he could not hold back his praise. He had to say something. He cried out in response saying, “Holy, Holy, Holy is the Lord of Hosts.” Isaiah uses the word “Holy” three times. Three in Scripture is the number of the Trinity—God the Father, God the Son, God the Holy Spirit. “Holy” means “set apart, separated from anything sinful or evil.” Isaiah is expressing a reverential awe, a fear of almighty God. He realizes there is no one like Him. God is in a category all by Himself. In this worship experience, you hear the heavenly choir, the seraphim, the highest-ranking angel, express in the strongest possible way in the Hebrew language these words of worship.
The word “Glory” means, “heavy, weighty, something that has value, worth, meaning.” God has the ultimate worth and value.
“The Lord of hosts” means “Lord of the armies.” He is over all the armies of the world and the heavenly army of angels; and He is able to destroy any enemy. There is no part of this world in which God is not present, and there is nowhere in the world where He is not in absolute control. Praise Him for this right now!
DAILY DO IT
Tell God how much you love Him and what an awesome God He is.
Follow Isaiah’s example of personal holiness—confess any sin and seek God’s forgiveness.
Once Isaiah confessed and repented of his sin, and after he experience worship and adoration for the Lord, he surrendered and said to God, “Here am I, send me.” Will you say that to the Lord right now? Will you pray, “Lord, no matter what, I will do it; no matter where, I will go; and no matter when, I will follow You”? Having a heart that is right with God puts you in a position of willingness to obey Him and go wherever He leads.
QUOTE OF THE DAY
“Holiness is the perfection of all (God’s) other attributes. His power is holy power, His mercy is holy mercy, His wisdom is holy wisdom. It is His holiness more than any other attribute that makes Him worthy of our praise”
— Jerry Bridges
REFLECT
Solomon was the wealthiest man alive in his time. He had it all—riches, money, land, possessions—anything and everything a person could ever want. He had power, prestige and popularity. He had privilege and the things the world touts as being the status of wealth. As King Solomon finished the wisdom book of Ecclesiastes, he had come to a conclusion about life, about what really matters and what is really important in life and for eternity.
All the things in the world and all the people in his vast sphere of relationships could not give him what he was looking for. That has not changed with time. It is like Solomon is saying, “After everyone has had their say; after everything has had an opportunity for input; and after you have visited all the places you can and experienced all life has to offer, the following is the ultimate purpose in life.”
Here it is: “Fear God and keep His commandments.” This is simple, yet simply profound. Let’s dig in and find out what it means. “Fear God” does not mean to be afraid of God, although you should be afraid of not obeying Him. “Fear” means “a reverential awe for, to stand in profound respect of, to experience the wonderment of.” You place almighty God in a category by Himself and live your life to worship, serve and please Him. Finding and living His purpose for your life is the ultimate and utmost life.
“Keep His commandments” means to do the will of God, to follow His Word, to obey Him fully, immediately and consistently; confess your sin; seek the Holy Spirit’s filling; say “Yes” to anything God wants and be sensitive to His voice.
If you want to find happiness, fulfillment, joy, purpose and peace, this is the game plan. Do not waste your time looking to other things or people for what only a relationship with God can bring.
DAILY DO IT
Today, focus on fearing God. When you truly fear Him, you will desire to keep His commandments. How long has it been since you have read the 10 Commandments? Let’s review them right now, and as we do, think about how you are doing keeping them.
I. You shall have no other gods before Me (Exodus 20:3).
II. You shall not make for yourself an idol, or any likeness of what is in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the water under the earth. You shall not worship them or serve them… (Exodus 20:4-5).
III. You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain (Exodus 20:7).
IV. Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy (Exodus 20:8).
V. Honor your father and your mother (Exodus 20:12).
VI. You shall not murder (Exodus 20:13).
VII. You shall not commit adultery (Exodus 20:14).
VIII. You shall not steal (Exodus 20:15).
IX. You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor (Exodus 20:16).
X. You shall not covet your neighbor’s house; you shall not covet your neighbor’s wife or his male servant or his female servant or his ox or his donkey or anything that belongs to your neighbor” (Exodus 20:17).
Which commandments do you most need to work on today?
QUOTE OF THE DAY
“Christ’s sheep are marked in the ear and the foot; they hear His voice and they follow Him.”
—Anonymous
REFLECT
Proverbs gives us principles or practical insight on how to live for God in all circumstances. This brings up a good point—there may not be a specific verse that speaks exactly to what you need or don’t need to do; however, God gives principles on how to decide about issues of right and wrong and what is in His will or out of His will. So, if you don’t find a Scripture that matches your specific situation, look for a principle—God’s timeless truths to give you direction.
Proverbs is a book of wisdom for everyday living. In today’s verse, we are told how to find what is truly good and how to be blessed. Let’s first define the words: “Good” means “happy, glad, prosperous and right.” “Blessed” means “happy.” In this verse the writer reveals two keys to living in real happiness:
1. “He who gives attention to the Word”
The one who seeks to understand, study and gain insight into God’s Word will be blessed. Jesus Himself sais in John 13:17 that doing God’s will brings real happiness. Obeying God brings holiness, and holiness brings happiness. Many seek happiness and never find it; however, seeking holiness leads to happiness.
2. “He who trusts in the Lord”
This is one who takes God at His Word, knowing He always keeps it—God never goes back on His Word. This is a picture of someone one who clings to God’s Word and refuses to let go.
Do you want to be happy? Do you want to live in such a way that neither your circumstances and situations or people dictate your feelings or attitudes? Do you want a life where worry and fear do not control your life? Then do two things: One, get in God’s Word— give “attention to” it. Read it, reflect upon it; pray it back to God; and listen for the voice of the Holy Spirit. It is important that you have a game plan. For example, read a a One-Year Bible every day. Two, take what God said, and believe it. Stake your life on it. Celebrate God’s promises. There has never been a scenario in which God did not keep His Word. Look in the rear-view mirror—your past. Has God ever not kept His Word to you? God’s track record in the past gives you great cause to have confidence for your future.
Try to fill in this blank: “I remember a time when God let me down. That time was ____________________.” If you are being totally honest, you will confess there has never been a time God let you down.
DAILY DO IT
Today I want to challenge you to make a commitment. This commitment will have transforming effects on your life, attitude, relationships and even your emotional and physical health. Determine to read the Bible through, and that you will begin today. Every Christian should read the entire Bible. When you get to Heaven you should be able to say to the Lord, “I read Your Word, every word of it.”
Find a game plan for reading the Bible through in a year and do it!
QUOTE OF THE DAY
“Faith comes alive when the Word read from the page becomes the Word heard in your heart.”
— Rex Rouis
REFLECT
Psalm 103 is written by David. In it he breaks out in praise to Almighty God. He lavishes praise to His Lord. “Bless” means “to speak well of.” He is proclaiming His adoration of who God is, his gratefulness for what God has done and how God has worked in his life personally.
First, David acknowledges the Lord. The name “Lord” means “the one true God.” There are many false gods masquerading as God, but our God knows all, can do anything and can be everywhere at once. No other God can do that. No one else is worthy of our praise. David understood the greatness of God and he could not contain his excitement.
“And all that is within me.” Here David is passionately excited about God. You cannot rely on your feelings when it comes to worshipping God, but worshipping God should make you feel something exciting. Are you excited about God, about worshipping Him, reading His Word and doing His will? If not, ask God to fill your heart with excitement about Him. Pray, “God I want to feel excited about You and Your will for my life.”
When David uses the word “soul,” he is speaking not just of the spirit, but of the mind, will and emotions. This involves thinking about ways that express praise to God (mind), choosing to praise God regardless of how you feel or your circumstances (will) and getting passionate about praising Him (emotions).
“And all that is within me” also expresses that true worship is not external—your body being in a certain position; your words or your location (where you go to worship). Worship begins with an attitude of your heart. An attitude of seeking and submitting to God.
Worship is not a feeling; it is a choice. So, regardless of what is happening or how you feel, choose to praise God. He is unchanging. The God Who parted the Red Sea, the God Who spoke the world into creation and knows no impossibilities is the same God whom David praised and whom you can praise.
Zero in on the word “Bless.” It also means “to kneel.” Another way to praise God is through prayer, on bended knees, crying out to Him.
DAILY DO IT
Today I want you to think back about a time and place where you experienced God in worship. When was it? Where were you? Describe the setting. What were you doing when you felt God’s presence? How did it happen? How did it affect your mind, will and emotions? Pray today that you will experience God in a new and fresh way. Today, ask God to show Himself to you in an obvious way.
QUOTE OF THE DAY
“God is at work all around you and He invites you to join Him”
—Henry Blackaby, Experiencing God
REFLECT
This Psalm gives us great news. Our God is not a stingy, tight-fisted, selfish God; He is a giving, loving, selfless, sacrificing, unconditionally loving God. Our God is a good God and He desires to bring good to each of His children. Now it is important to define good. “Good,” by our definition, would involve a life free of bad things, sad things and evil things. “Good,” by God’s definition means anything that would cause us to be more like Him and teach us to depend upon Him. That is why even in the midst of tragedy and trauma, God can bring something good, something that will benefit us, something He will use in our lives to make us better and stronger. This is a promise from God Himself.
“No good thing” means God will never keep from you anything that will benefit you. But here is the condition, you must walk uprightly. What does that mean? It means to live in holiness: to live a life where you confess your sin and live in God’s grace; you choose to do His will and follow His plan and purpose; and you obey anything He tells you to do.
God is not a God who desires to keep things from you that would help you and make you happy. The world wants to portray God as someone who is basically a cosmic killjoy who gives you a list of do’s and don’ts so you won’t be happy. Nothing could be further from the truth. God wants to bless you, bring joy to you and give you all good things. As you seek to live in the center of God’s will, you can expect God to flood your life with those things that bring real joy. God’s part is to keep His Word and give you every good thing. Your part is to obey Him, follow Him and live in a constant state of readiness to promote Him. If it is good, God wants you to have it.
The ultimate example of God’s goodness came on the day Jesus died on the cross for the sin of the world, also known as, Good Friday.
DAILY DO IT
Today I want you to meditate on Good Friday, the day of Jesus’ crucifixion. Why on the worst possible day anyone could ever experience, would we call it Good Friday? Jesus was the epitome of One Who obeyed God, yet He died the most horrendous death a person could die. But, Good Friday is not called that because it felt good, but because of what God did through it. It is Good Friday because God ultimately dealt with the sin that separated us from God and would send us to hell. So, the next time something bad happens to you, remember the Good-Friday effect. God may be using something so that good will come out of it.
QUOTE OF THE DAY
“What is good about Good Friday? Why isn’t it called Bad Friday? Because out of the appallingly bad came what was inexpressibly good. And the good trumps the bad, because though the bad was temporary, the good is eternal.”
—Randy Alcorn
REFLECT
The Psalmist shares a powerful testimony in his experience with God. His confession is that he would have felt hopeless, like giving up, had it not been for God’s character. The word “despair” means “the absence of hope, discouragement, the feeling of gloom and uncertainty, of dreadful fear.” Notice the word “Unless.” It makes all the difference. There is a shift from hopelessness to hope, from despair to expectation. The word “believed” is a key word. It means to trust, to be certain about.” The Psalmist was certain about God and His promises.
This verse is a powerful statement as we live in a broken world filled with evil. Unless we have hope in God, there is despair. It’s hard enough some days to make it with God, but how does a person make it without Him? What was the basis for this powerful belief and trust? Simply that God is good, and He brings good into the lives of those who trust and follow Him.
What is “the goodness of the Lord”? “Goodness” is God’s perspective, God’s gifts, God’s blessings, God’s favor and God’s promises. The belief factor means you trust that no matter what is going on around you, God is going to bring something out of it that is good. The operative teaching in this verse has to do with our perspective; in fact, that we have a God perspective.
The key issue is an understanding the difference between God’s definition of “goodness” and our definition of “goodness.” Our definition makes good is the opposite of bad—no difficulties, no problems, no bad days, no hurts, no wounds and no dread. However, God’s definition includes difficulties, trials, bad days, difficult people and trying circumstances. These are the ingredients God uses to mold us and help us depend upon Him. When God’s definition of good is embraced, a new perspective emerges, one that can see God using things people normally consider bad to help us become more like Him. Jesus is our ultimate example. He endured the cross—the ultimate bad—so we could experience His ultimate good—salvation and heaven.
DAILY DO IT
Make a commitment today that before the next event of bad news comes your way, you will look for something good out of it. Change your definition of good from being the absence of bad to God’s definition which sues good things and bad things to bring us growth and Him glory through our lives. Look back at some of your most difficult moments and ask, “Did God use that someway, somehow to help me grow?” It is often adversity that causes us to be more like Jesus.
QUOTE OF THE DAY
“What is ‘good?’ ‘Good’ is what God approves. We may ask then, ‘why is what God approves good?’ We must answer, ‘Because He approves it.’ That is to say, there is no higher standard of goodness than God’s own character and His approval of whatever is consistent with that character.”
—Wayne Grudem
REFLECT
This is my life verse. I want you to think about the implications of what this Scripture is teaching. Notice that the Lord Himself is constantly looking, observing, watching for something or someone specifically. God is scanning, He is moving, He is active in every part of the Earth and is on the lookout for a particular person. I love that our God is personal, knowable, touchable and involved. He desires to bless and to show His favor on us. Now, God is not just looking for anyone, He is looking for someone in particular. Notice when He finds that person the promise is He will strongly support him. That means He will encourage him, support him, make him strong and even repair what is broken in him. This means “God will intervene,” He will show up, He will help you, He will reveal Himself to you.
The person God is looking for is someone who with his mind, feelings and will is passionately following Him. This person must be “completely His.” That means with every part of him, with every aspect of his life, with every fiber of his being, he is dedicated to God and doing His will.
When you pursue God with all your mind, heart and will, allowing nothing to detour you from your pursuit, and are willing to pay the price to know and serve God, you will get God’s attention. Imagine that! With approximately 7.4 billion people on planet Earth, you can get God’s attention. God always notices the man who is sold out to Him and will do His will no matter what, no matter when and no matter where.
How badly do you want to see God do something in your life? What are you willing to do to see God work in your life? Are you at the point where you are desperate to experience Him?
DAILY DO IT
Today, think about the eight characteristics of the kind of heart God is looking for. Strive daily for these:
1. A Broken Heart- a heart that wants what God wants and crucifies what you want.
2. A Faith-Filled Heart – a heart that believes what God says, regardless of circumstances or feelings.
3. A Humble Heart – a heart void of pride and arrogance.
4. A Surrendered Heart – a heart that is totally, unreservedly, submitted to God and His will. “When the will of God crosses the will of man, somebody has to die” (Addison Leitch).
5. A Pure Heart—a heart that has confessed every known sin and has a passion to seek holiness, not happiness.
6. A Scripture-Filled Heart—a heart that knows and acts on God’s Word.
7. A Worshipping Heart—a heart filled with praise for Who God is and what God has done.
8. A Prayerful Heart—a heart that cries out to God continually.
QUOTE OF THE DAY
The world has yet to see what would happen if someone, anyone would get thoroughly, totally, committed to God.” D.L. Moody responded with: “I will be that man.”
REFLECT
This is a personal promise from Jesus Christ, and oh what a promise it is When you consider the ramifications of this verse, you can get really excited. Jesus is promising He will personally work things out for you. He will provide everything you need, exactly when you need it. Now, this verse doesn’t tell you how God will do it, only that He will do it. Your focus must be on the “what”—“But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness,” and let God focus on the “how”—“and all these things shall be added to you.”
“Seek” is a passionate pursuit that is continual; you hunger and thirst for it; you are going hard after it. It means you put God first: He comes before you wife, your children, your money, your dreams, your habits, your friendships, your hobbies—your anything. Putting God first means you have a habitual, single-minded focus—you put what God wants ahead of what you or anyone in your life wants. “First” means “first in order of importance.” God and His will become the number-one priority of your life.
“His Kingdom” is invisible, not visible; it is spiritua,l not a geographical location. “His [God’s] Kingdom” means His will, His way, His Word, His plan, His purpose. In other words, it is that which God rules. “His Righteousness” is to be right with Him and in the center of His will. You are separated from sin and fully, passionately dedicated to following and obeying Him.
So when I put “first” what God wants, “all these things,’’ meaning no exceptions.”will be added.” Notice God doesn’t subtract, He adds. It means there is nothing you will do without when God is the priority of your life. You will have everything you need at all times. God never runs out of ways to meet your needs.
DAILY DO IT
Today I want you to think about God’s priorities and how they line up with your priorities. God’s priorities are:
1. God
2. Family
a. Wife
b. Children
c. Other Family Members
3. Church
4. Your Job or Work
5. Recreation, Playing
The key is keeping these priorities in order. If # 2, 3, 4 or 5 takes place of #1, there will be trouble. If any greater number comes before a lesser number, you invite problems in your life, and life gets out of balance. Daily check to make sure God’s priorities are your priorities.
QUOTE OF THE DAY
“When I have learnt to love God better than my earthly dearest, I shall love my earthly dearest better than I do now…When first things are put first, second things are not suppressed but increased.”
—C.S. Lewis
REFLECT
The prophet Jeremiah is praying. He shouts in praise to the God Who spoke the world into creation. That is the kind of power our God possesses. J.I. Packer said, “You will never need more than God can supply.” Jeremiah is making this confession: The God Who created the world can do anything. The best way to begin your praying is by praising God and extoling His greatness, His amazingness and His sovereignty.
You can picture through Jeremiah’s words, that God holds out His arms and declares, the world into being. God speaks, and it happens.
Jeremiah announces that “Nothing is too difficult” for God. “Difficult” means “beyond one’s power.” Our power is limited. We cannot do everything; we cannot be everywhere at once; and we do not know everything. However, when you line up your limitations with God’s limitless power, there is great security. You might ask, “God can what?” Fill in the blank. Whatever you need, God can. Whatever messy situation you find yourself in, God can. Whatever relationship is broken, God can. Whatever financial turmoil you may be facing, God can. Whatever issue you are facing, God can. Whatever worry or fear that is visiting your mind or heart, you must know that God can.
Confess to God, “Nothing is too difficult for You.” What is your “Nothing?” Whatever it is, God’s power can overcome it. He is the God of miracles.
Do you need a miracle in your life today? Begin by confessing to God that you believe He can!
DAILY DO IT
Today what is the most difficult thing you are facing? What is the most difficult relationship you are involved in? What is causing you worry, fear or angst? What is the worst-case scenario you are facing? What battle or struggle are you facing? Once you name your difficulty, take it to God, and pray the following, “Lord God, You have made the heavens and the earth because You possess all power. You spoke, and the world came into being. You have a solution to every problem, every issue, every circumstance. Today I bring before You my difficult situation of __________________________ (name the difficulty). I confess to You I do not know what to do next, but I bring it to You and seek Your wisdom and Your intervention. In this moment, I release the difficulty I face. I trust You to bring something from it that will glorify You, something that will help me become more like Jesus and something that will help others. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.”
QUOTE OF THE DAY
“When we have nothing left but God, then we become aware that God is enough.”
— Agnes M. Royden
REFLECT
Paul shares with us an unchangeable law—the law of sowing and reaping. This law always works and is always true, regardless of circumstances, whether a person believes or does not believe it and despite what people think or say to the contrary.
The seed represents everything you do and everything you say. Sowing is your activity, your actions. Reaping is something God does because of something you have done.
Paul reminds us that “God is not mocked.” No one can fool God. Mocking God is leaving Him out, ignoring or neglecting Him.
You cannot break God’s laws and expect to get by with it or escape the consequences. You cannot live out of God’s will and expect God to ignore it. However, when you obey God and follow His will, you can fully expect God to bless it, to reward it.
“Whatever a man sows” indicates that God encourages you to make the first move. You must sow something before you can reap something.
Notice, “whatever [you] sow, [you] will reap.” Whatever you give; will be given back. “Whatever” includes money, time, kindness, love, good deeds, anything. You will get back WHAT you give in kind. If you sow un-forgiveness, hate, unkindness, rudeness, stinginess, that is what you will get back. You choose what you reap, by choosing what you sow.
The law of the harvest means: You will reap exactly the same kind of thing that you have sown. You reap more than you sow. It multiplies—the more you sow, the more you will reap. Once you have sown, give it time. It takes time for us to see fruit or results once we have sown something. “Due season” is a specific time of blessing that will come. God promises. Just don’t give up!
DAILY DO IT
Today let’s apply the law of Sowing and Reaping to 5 specific areas:
1. Financially—If you sow at least a tithe, you will reap God’s promised blessing. The minimum basis of obedient giving is the tithe, which is 10 percent of what you make. God will do more with the 90 percent left over than the 100 percent you might keep.
2. Spiritually—If you sow time in God’s Word, sharing Christ, worship, and prayer, you will reap spiritual growth and God’s blessings.
3. Relationally—If you sow time with people and invest your life in them, you will reap blessings in those relationships.
4. Morally—If you sow a moral and pure life, you will reap experiencing God along with physical and emotional blessings.
5. Physically—If you sow taking care of your body, you will reap the rewards of health.
QUOTE OF THE DAY
“What I spent I had; what I saved I lost; what I gave, I have.”
—On an Old Gravestone
REFLECT
Chapters 1-8 of the Book of Romans are more theological in nature and chapters 9-16 are more practical and shows how belief affects and even determines behavior. When your belief is right, your lifestyle reflects it.
Romans 12:2 is one of the great Scriptures in all the Bible. It helps us know how to apply God’s Word to our lives.
One of the ways to learn Scripture is to take a verse and put it in your own words. I am not suggesting changing Scripture, but paraphrasing it. If I were going to paraphrase Romans 12:2, I would say, “Do not let the world without God mold you into its likeness, acting like the world, speaking like the world, dressing like the world, laughing at what the world laughs at, not taking seriously what God labels sin, and intentionally trying to blend in with the world and remain as inconspicuous as possible about being a Christian.”
“Conform” means to let the world control your thinking. It’s living according to culture’s standards. “World” means this present age, the culture controlled by Satan. Paul said, instead of being controlled by the culture, begin to control the culture. “Transformed” means to change from the inside out. Let God control the internal and the external is affected. When God changes you, you can begin to change the world.
As a Christian, the difference you make is found in your difference from the world. I am not suggesting being odd, weird or obnoxious; I am suggesting a life that is markedly different from the world, which leaves out God and laughs at His Word. Instead of being like the world, you, as a believer, are called to continually be like Jesus Christ; and that begins in your thought life.
Paul says the believer is to renew his mind. The mind is the control center of your feelings, actions, words and attitudes. What you think about the most you will eventually act on. Your thought life is influenced by what you allow your eyes to be exposed to. Open God’s Word and think about what it says and how you can apply it to your life. It means intentionally aligning your thinking with God’s thinking, surrendering to what He says even before you know what He says. One of the best ways of renewing your mind is through meditation—taking a passage of Scripture and going over it again and again in your mind until it becomes part of you.
When you allow God’s Word to renew your mind, to control your mind, God reveals His will to you. When you have God’s will, you have something that is…
“Good” has the idea of being excellent and joyful. “Acceptable” means God applauds it. “Perfect” means full of integrity and virtue. Doing God’s will always ends well.
DAILY DO IT
Today think about this statement: “Stop the thought!” It a statement a seminary professor of mine made whenever a sinful thought crossed his mind. Saying it out loud interrupts the sinful thought. A fellow author and I developed an acrostic for S.T.O.P. It is S–Sinful thoughts confessed immediately. T—Think on these things. Meditate on Scripture. O-Order every sinful thought and place it under Jesus’ authority. P-Pursue Christ-mindedness. Seek daily to have the mind of Christ—to think as Jesus would, consistently about the things of God. So, today when a sinful thought hits your mind, S.T.O.P. the thought!
QUOTE OF THE DAY
“God formed us. Sin deformed us. Jesus can transform us.”
– Anonymous
REFLECT
Today is the last day of our Wingman 31 Day Experiment.
In this verse God hands Joshua the key to success. As Joshua, who succeeded Moses as the leader of God’s people, had the task of crossing the Jordan River during the flood stage and leading the people to the land of promise, Canaan. It was as if God gave Joshua a pep talk, reminding him He would be with him every step of the way. In Joshua 1:8, God gives Joshua the prescription for success. The word “prosperous” means “to make progress.” God wants you to make progress.
There are four specific conditions for success God gave Joshua, which apply to you as well:
1. Settle the Bible as God’s authority for what you believe and how you act. Have you settled this issue personally?
2. Open God’s Word. Let it become part of your life, so much so, that when you speak, it is evident God’s Word has influenced you. Talk about it. Never be ashamed of it. Include it in your conversations.
3. Consistently think about what God’s Word Says. Let it filter your thoughts, attitudes, words and actions.
4. Obey God’s Word immediately and entirely. Obedience always brings the blessing of God.
Are you willing to do these four things? If not, you will not live in God’s kind of success; if you are, you will live God’s definition of success.
Joshua did cross the Jordan River, and he did go into the Land of Canaan; and God kept His Word—He always does!
DAILY DO IT
Today, I want you to take your Bible and hold it in your hands. Grip it tightly. Then I want you to make this confession to God: “My Lord and My God, I take Your Infallible Word, the Bible, and I make this confession to You today and every day of my life on Earth. I accept Your Word as the authority for my life, that what You say is what I must do; that what You command, I must obey; that what you think, I must think; and the way You say I must live is the way I will strive daily to live. I trust You to make me successful as a husband, father, and child of God. In Jesus name, amen.”
QUOTE OF THE DAY
“It is a dangerous and misguided policy to measure God’s blessing by standards of visible, tangible, material success”
—Charles Colson