Comforted by the Creator

In times of distress and need, a comforting word can make all the difference. Have you ever been burdened? Depressed? And, someone came with the right words? Can you vividly recall the impact that it had on your life? God came to Abraham with great words of comfort after the battle for Lot and the people of Sodom.

After these things the word of the Lord came unto Abram in a vision, saying, Fear not, Abram: I am thy shield, and thy exceeding great reward. Gen 15:1  (KJV)

Abraham receives comfort that God would be his reward and protection. Remember, Abraham would not take anything for his aid. However, God remembered his service and comforts Abraham.  Some reading this may feel as if they have given their all  to  the  benefit of others and their lives seem to be stagnant and hard.

However, as God comforted Abraham, you are to receive comfort on this day knowing that God will be your reward and protection. Though things in your life have been delayed, they are definitely not denied. A time of blessing and reward is appointed for you, as it was for Abraham.

Prayer of the Week:

“Lord, life can be difficult and seem like there is no end to the difficulties. But I thank you that you will keep me and bless me at the proper time. Amen.”

Do It God’s Way

To succeed is the goal of many. The quest for success and material abundance has sabotaged the spiritual life of many. The king of Sodom offered Abraham great wealth for his previous help. However, Abraham refused.

And Abram said to the king of Sodom, I have lift up mine hand unto the Lord, the most high God, the possessor of heaven and earth, That I will not take from a thread even to a shoe latchet, and that I will not take any thing that is thine, lest thou shouldest say, I have made Abram rich. Gen 14:22-23 (KJV)

Abraham chose to be successful God’s way. He knew that if he received from the king of Sodom, they would take credit for Abraham’s wealth.

As Christians, are we willing to do things God’s way, that Christ is honored? Many opportunities can come to us, but opportunities do not always come with God’s endorsement. This is where we must be humble and open to God’s direction.

            Doing things God’s way or according to His will may delay success and wealth, but it will never prevent it. On today, examine your life. Make sure your quest for personal success and prosperity is according to God’s will. In doing so, you will preserve your relationship with Him as you increase in this life.

Prayer of the Week:

“Lord, help me to trust you with success in my life. I know you have my best interest in mind. I submit my ways unto you that I may prosper. Amen”

Honoring God

 Money is something that almost every civilization uses today as currency. Without it, one cannot acquire the things necessary to maintain a decent habitation. Because of this, the call to give money, even in the religious setting, becomes a challenge; especially, when we have labored hard to earn it. After Abraham fought the battle, freeing Lot and the people of Sodom, he was challenged with the responsibility to honor God for the victory.

And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him tithes of all. Gen 14:20 (KJV)

Abraham understood that God had given him the victory. Though he would not be paid for what he had done, he still did receive for his men and their labor. From this, Abraham not only honored God through giving Him praise, but also gave tithes of his substance.

Christians have to remember to honor God with worship and with giving of their time, energy, effort, and substance (which includes finances). Remember, God gives us strength to acquire so that we can live and be a blessing to the Church. This is how He is honored.

On today, evaluate your willingness to give in honor of God. Make an effort to do better (if necessary). God gave us His best (in Christ) and we have the responsibility to return to Him the best out of our substance.

Prayer of the Week:

“I thank you for your daily provision and protection. I make a new commitment to honor you in my giving.

Bearing Others’ Burdens: Abraham fights for Lot

Do you know someone who brings trouble upon himself or herself? In the end, others have to come to their rescue and bail them out. Dealing with these individuals can be draining, even after you have warned them and they rejected good counsel. However, as Christians, we have to remain willing to help others even when they make unwise decisions. Abraham had to go and fight for Lot after he made the bad choice to live in Sodom.

And when Abram heard that his brother was taken captive, he armed his trained servants, born in his own house, three hundred and eighteen, and pursued them unto Dan. Gen 14:14 (KJV)

Lot was taken captive and Abraham had to gather a force to free him. There are individuals in our lives that may seem to go through the same things over  and  over  again. Yet,  God  has allowed it so that we can be demonstrators of His love and mercy.

Paul reminded the Galatians that they were  to do good unto all men. In addition, special consideration was to be given to those who are believers (Galatians 6:10). Do not hold back bearing others’ burdens, even if they are a burden to themselves. In doing so, we fulfill the law of Christ.

Prayer of the Week:

“I remember all that Christ did for me on today. I thank you he bore my transgressions and sins. On this day, I ask that you help me to bear others’ burdens in light of your goodness towards me. Amen”

Letting Go: Abraham pleads for Ishmael

Image by christianbiblereference.org

Friends, family, and acquaintances are important to our lives. We live in a world where we must interact and be interdependent upon others for love, support, and relationship. However, some individuals in our lives may prove to be useful only at certain times in our lives. It does not mean that there is a problem; however, God may want to bring others into our lives for continual growth and success in Him.

Abraham had to learn the reality of this truth. Because God’s promise was upon Sarah and Isaac, he would eventually have to let go of Ishmael that God’s promises to him would be established. However, Abraham protested.

And Abraham said unto God, O that Ishmael might live before thee! Gen 17:18 (KJV)

Abraham loved Ishmael, but God’s covenant would be with Isaac. Abraham pleaded with God for Ishmael. On today, what people are in your life that you know that they will not be able to be with you always? Are you willing to let them go {not because you hate them or any problem exists} for the sake of continual growth and success in Christ?

They may be longtime friends and family members. It does not mean that there is no communication and fellowship, but their influence in your life has to be limited that God may bring to you all that He has for you. This may be a difficult task, but in the end, everyone will prosper. Later on, in this story, discover that God blessed Ishmael, though he had to leave his father.

Prayer of the Week:

 “I know that I can trust you God, you know what is best for me and who is good for me. Help me to do what is necessary to please you. Amen.”

Separated for the Set-up

Separation is a necessary part of life. Many fight against it, even to their own hurt. Some stay in destructive relationships for fear of being alone. Others will not separate because of the “comfort” of familiarity. However, as a Christian, the challenge to separate from people, places, and things (in order to progress) is there.

Abraham had to make the decision to separate from Lot. In Volume I, we discussed how Abraham and Lot entered into conflict. Rather than stay in a situation where this could reoccur, Abraham gave Lot his pick of the land for peaceful separation.

And the Lord said unto Abram, after that Lot was separated from him, Lift up now thine eyes, and look from the place where thou art northward, and southward, and eastward, and westward: For all the land which thou seest, to thee will I give it, and to thy seed for ever. Gen 13:14-15 (KJV)

After the separation, God appears to Abraham and gives him a blessing of promise. We discover that his separation was a set-up to receive from God. On today, what people, places, and things do you need to give up and separate yourself from? Abraham was willing to separate from Lot and he received a blessing. Who knows? Some things you may desire of God may be released if you separate from known negative influences. Make the necessary changes and separations; it will set you up for a blessing.

Prayer of the Week:

“Lord, I thank you that your thoughts for me are for good. Give me the strength to do what is necessary to receive all that you have for me. Thank you now for all things that will come for my benefit. Amen.” 

Handling Conflicts

Do you know someone who loves controversy and conflict? Regardless of the situation, there is a problem. They do not want peace, but conflict. As Christians we are instructed to live in peace with all men according to our best efforts. Yet, when we are offended and treated unjustly, do we still want peace or seek for personal vindication.

Abraham faced conflict with Lot (his nephew); there servants were at odds. However, we discover that Abraham sought for peace; he did not perpetuate the problem.

And Abram said unto Lot, Let there be no strife, I pray thee, between me and thee, and between my herdmen and thy herdmen; for we be brethren. Gen 13:8 (KJV)

Since Abraham was the elder in this situation, he could have handled the conflict in a totalitarian manner. However, he recognized that Lot was family and there was a peaceable solution.

As a Christian, how do you handle conflicts at home and those that happen at church? You must understand that conflicts will arise, especially in the church. Yet, remember that they are your brothers and sisters in Christ. You should seek for peace and not selfish vindication.

In the end, all things must be done to honor Christ who has saved you. Your encounters in the church should not contribute to the disunity or disharmony of the fellowship.

Prayer of the Week:

“Lord, grant me grace, when conflicts arise. Help me to honor you as I face conflicts. Let your will always be done. Amen.”

Back to Basics: Abraham returns to Bethel

Every few years, states require drivers to have their licenses renewed. Drivers have to take tests to establish that they still know the basic road signs and rules. It serves as a reminder to drivers.

Experienced drivers are not exempt. They, too, must review foundational information to maintain their driving privileges. After Abraham’s initial call and his ordeal in Egypt, he returned to the place where God spoke to him.

And he went on his journeys from the south even to Bethel, unto the place where his tent had been at the beginning, between Bethel and Hai; Unto the place of the altar, which he had made there at the first: and there Abram called on the name of the Lord. Gen 13:3-4 (KJV)

In   the   Christian   life,  times  come  where  we must return to the basics. Like drivers on the road, we must review and revisit foundational truths of the Bible and recognize if we are still following them.

Like Abraham, we need to consider our initial commitment to the Lord and see if we are true to it. Abraham went through some incredible situations; afterwards, he returned to the place where God spoke to him. This served to renew his faith and trust. Life  can  sometimes  take  you  off  course. Take time to renew and revive your faith and walk with God through introspection and prayer.

Prayer of the Week:

 I ask for a renewal on today. I remember how you have blessed me. I will recall to mind your word. Help me to stay on the right path. Amen.”

Distractions, Distractions, Distractions: Don’t Turn to the Left or Right

One enemy of the Christian life and experience is distraction. Since distractions come in numerous forms, it is easy to become entrapped by them. Even serving God can become a distraction when He is not the focus on your daily life. This is what happened to Martha.

But Martha was cumbered about much serving, and came to him, and said, Lord, dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? bid her therefore that she help me. And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things. Luke 10:40-41 (KJV)

Rather than spend time in Christ’s presence, she became distracted with trying to serve Him. Today’s inspiration is a brief reminder to warn you against distractions. We have to deal with life and all of its toils, but life should not deter you from having peace in Christ.

Distractions abound, tasks are many, concerns multiply, but in the middle of all of these, your cry should be, “Lord, help me to overcome these distractions, distractions, distractions!”

Prayer of the Week:
“Lord, I thank you for your mercy, goodness, kindness, and grace. On today, I commit myself to doing that which pleases you in my daily life. I am grateful for your help and strength to overcome external and internal challenges. Amen.”

Obeying the Situation

Weather conditions usually dictate our daily wardrobe choices. If it is hot, we usually wear clothes that are light and airy. When it is rainy, raincoats and umbrellas accessorize one’s outfit. If it is cold, jackets, sweaters, boots, etc. usually appear. The weather condition demands a response.

As Christians, we have to learn to respond to the different “weather” conditions of our Christian walk. Abraham lied to Pharaoh, caused Sarah to be taken, brought plagues upon Pharaoh, and now, Pharaoh wanted him out of Egypt.

And Pharaoh commanded his men concerning him: and they sent him away, and his wife, and all that he had. Gen 12:20 (KJV)

Abraham had to obey Pharaoh’s request to depart. Think about situations in your life that demand a response. You have to be willing to depart from relationships that are unfruitful; give up habits that are self-destructive; and pursue Christ when you recognize spiritual decline.

You have to obey the situations that confront you. Though situations arise where we do not know what to do, oftentimes, what we need to do is right before us if we pay attention.

Prayer of the Week:

 “I come before you on today Lord asking for grace to do what I know to do is right. Help me to have the proper response to the situations that are in my life. I thank you now. Amen.”

God will Fight for You

 

Growing up, my older brother would always fight for me. If anyone ever troubled me or threatened me, he would step in to defend me. He would do it without question. He did not ask about what happened or how did the situation arise. If he was there and saw trouble, he got involved.

Abraham was in Egypt and allowed Pharaoh to take his wife because of his fears. Since God’s promise was upon Abraham and Sarah, we see His intervention  in a situation caused by Abraham and Sarah’s bad decision.

And the Lord plagued Pharaoh and his house with great plagues because of Sarai Abram's wife. Gen 12:17 (KJV)

Abraham was clearly wrong, but God intervened on his behalf. He protected Abraham from the consequences of his actions. He also protected Sarah from being violated by Pharaoh. Some are facing situations that they, in effect, have caused themselves.

Do not lose faith and hope that God will be there for you. Just know that He is gracious and longsuffering and gets joy in showing mercy. God will fight for you.

Prayer of the Week:

“I trust you on this day Lord that you will intervene on my behalf. I stand in faith on your love and grace. Thank you for all things. Amen.” 

Don’t Go Back Into Egypt: Don’t Return into Bondage

When reading the Old Testament account of the nation of Israel in the wilderness, one discovers that they continually cried that they wanted to return to Egypt. After God showed them His power, mercy, and love when he delivered them from the hand of the Egyptians, they still would not trust Him completely to fulfill His promise to them.

And to whom sware he that they should not enter into his rest, but to them that believed not? So we see that they could not enter in because of unbelief. Heb 3:18-19  (KJV)

Sometimes in reading this story, we may find it odd that they would be like that in spite of all the miracles God showed them while they were in Egypt. But how many of us have wavered in our commitment to Christ, desiring to go back to old sins, habits, and people that we originally cried out to God to deliver us from.

On today, I want to encourage Christians everywhere to not go back to “Egypt.” Whatever is Egypt in your life, do not return to it. God is faithful. He will still help you, heal you, forgive you, and be with you. Continue to walk with Him in spite of opposition and even in spite of yourself, knowing He knows all things and will aid you in the time of trouble. Do not go back into Egypt.

Prayer of the Week:

“Lord, grant me grace to stand with contentment as I wait upon you. You will be faithful unto the end. Amen.”

The Great “I AM”: He is the Self-Existent One

 

    The children of Israel were in trouble. The Egyptians had put them under subjection. What began as a blessing, now had become bondage. Their entrance into Egypt saved Jacob and his family, but now they were under hard task masters who did not want the nation to grow and prosper. But God, who is faithful, heard the cries of His people and revealed Himself to Moses.

And God said unto Moses, I AM THAT I AM: and he said, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, I AM hath sent me unto you. Ex 3:14 (KJV)

God called Himself the “I AM.” This denoted that whatever the children of Israel could need, He would be that to them. On today, every Christian should be confident that the same God who revealed Himself to Moses, revealed Himself in Christ.

If we have received Christ, we have an audience and connection to the “I Am” who is great. Be confident knowing that you are not alone because the Great “I AM” is there.

Prayer of the Week:

 Lord, I thank you for your great love revealed in Christ. I appreciate the gift of salvation. Amen.”

I Change My Mind!: Changing Your Mindset

 

Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay

Decisions, Decisions, Decisions… life is full of them. Everyday decisions have to made, for the good or bad. Thus, we know that one decision can change the course of an individual’s life. Since this is a fact, it is important for the Christian to make the right decisions, especially those that will have a direct impact on their walk with Christ.

Choose you this day whom ye will serve… Josh 24:15 (KJV)

Some reading this are contemplating some things that will have a negative influence in their Christian walk. Some are considering leaving your church, leaving your family, and leaving ministry. Some are trying to decide whether to serve Christ any longer or no. But on today, some need to change their mind.

Quitting is not an option. God has not failed you. He will heal you and give you peace, even in this life. Some have already made up their minds concerning some things, but it is time for you to change your mind. Go on and walk with the Lord, He is faithful. Say it with me, “I Change My Mind!”

Prayer of the Week:

 “I thank you that you will help me fulfill choices I make for You. You will ensure that they always produce results. Help me to remember this truth. Amen.”

Walk On Water: Victory in Unstable Times

The story of Peter walking on water is extraordinary. Through Christ, he was able to defy the laws of nature. Water became to him as dry land until he focused on his surroundings. However, his walking on water should inspire faith in those of us who are facing impossible situations.

The earth is the LORD'S, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein. For he hath founded it upon the seas, and established it upon the floods. Psalms 24:1-2 (KJV)

Psalm  24  says that  God founded the earth upon waters and floods. This means that He shows us His greatness in circumstances that are rocky, shaky, and unstable.

Whatever situation you are facing. Whatever impossible circumstance that is before you. Through faith in Christ, we can “walk on the water” of our situations. The Lord still helped Peter when he doubted, and He will help you if you get worried. It is time for you to trust Christ and “walk on water” in the situations of life.

Prayer of the Week:

“I know God that you are holy. It is because of your holiness that I can trust your will for my life. I thank you that you will always remain the same. Amen.”

Don’t Rely on Yourself

    Fear is a powerful emotion. It can make one irrational and illogical. What things cause you to fear? How do you respond to your fears? If you would be honest, fears usually make you throw out reason and you begin to rely on your senses rather than sensibilities.

    Though God has promised His abiding presence to those who know Him, Christians still find themselves governed by fear rather than faith. Abraham allowed his fear to dominate him; in turn, he dropped faith and relied upon his ingenuity in the situation.

Say, I pray thee, thou art my sister: that it may be well with me for thy sake; and my soul shall live because of thee. Gen 12:13 (KJV)

God had promised Abraham that He would bless Him. However, Abraham feared he would be killed because of his beautiful wife. Consequently, he relied on deception rather than on God for protection while in Egypt. What situations are confronting you? Are you relying solely on yourself or on God who is faithful and gracious?

Abraham’s reliance on himself nearly cost him his wife. When you turn from faith to fear, you will not rely on God; you will rely on yourself, which is subject to failure. Why not stand on the One who cannot fail. 

Prayer of the Week:

 “I know that I can trust you God, but help me to overcome fear in my present circumstances. I thank you that you will never leave me or fail me. Amen.”

Surviving Famines

In recent decades, global attention has been given to nations that suffer consistently with famine. Hunger induced through famine can make individuals do and say things they would never do under normal conditions. So, the question remains, how do you respond to famines in your life? -  Not famine in terms of food, but famines that come up in your personal life and in your life with God.

Have you experienced times when it seems that your prayers are not answered and God is not there? Or, times when it seems like you are in a spiritual drought? These famines occur in the Christian life. Abraham went into Egypt when a famine arose, which placed him in a compromising situation.

And there was a famine in the land: and Abram went down into Egypt to sojourn there;   for the famine was grievous in the land. Gen 12:10 (KJV)

While in Egypt, Abram and Sarah conspired to deceive Pharaoh. This resulted in placing Sarah in a compromising situation. During this time in your life, you may be experiencing famine and drought in your personal and spiritual life. Make sure you do not compromise your faith and integrity before God as Abraham did in Egypt. Understand that God knows all things and He will bless you and deliver you in due time. 

Prayer of the Week:

“Lord, help me during times of testing and famine in my life. Strengthen my faith and hope in you that I do not turn away from what is right. I thank you that you will do this. Amen.”

Altar of Acceptance

To commemorate important occasions, we take pictures, buy souvenirs, or even leave markings. This is done so that whenever any of these are seen, one can instantly remember  the event. How do you view your times with Christ?

Are there memorable events that have taken place that you want to always remember and cherish? After receiving the promise, Abraham built an altar to God in acceptance of His promise. In addition, it was to commemorate what had happened.

And the Lord appeared unto Abram, and said, Unto thy seed will I give this land: and there builded he an altar unto the Lord, who appeared unto him. Gen 12:7 (KJV)As 

Christians, we no longer build altars, but we should mark special times and occasions with Christ in acceptance and appreciation for what He has done. We can do this by writing down the experience, marking special events on calendars, or even writing a psalm to God.

Abraham built an altar in response to the promise; remember to build an “altar” to the Lord for His blessings and promises in your life.

Prayer of the Week

“Lord, I thank you for your blessings. On this day, I make special mention of your goodness and kindness. I am grateful for all things. Amen”

Focus On Christ: Looking Unto Jesus

 

Image by Arnie Bragg from Pixabay

It is interesting to note that many in the Church have a greater passion for what they can have, say, and do rather than for Christ. By this, I mean we will get upset and fight for liberties that do not mean much of anything.

We get upset if someone tells us we should not watch something, listen to particular things, or even wear certain things.

Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee. Isaiah 26:3 (KJV)

Though we are free  in Christ, many have allowed their freedom to become bondage to them. Many are vocal about what they CAN do but are silent about Christ and His work of salvation. We have to be careful that nothing  in this life stirs up passion in us more than Jesus Christ.

Today, consider your walk and think about what motivates you. Do you spend time trying to figure out what you can do and call yourself a Christian? Or do you spend more time trying to discover how you can live for Him and promote the truth of the Gospel? It’s time to focus on Christ.

Prayer of the Week:

 “I know that I can trust you God, your thoughts for me are good. Therefore, I come to you today with all of my fears, concerns, and hang-ups; knowing you will answer me in due time. Amen.”

He is Lord: He will be with You

Image by Παῦλος from Pixabay

        When I was converted, one song that I heard over and over again was, “He Is Lord.” Each time I heard the song, the reality of what had taken place in my life became more real. I truly understood that Jesus, He is Lord. Though many today challenge His existence, including His divinity and humanity, it does not negate the truth. He is Lord.

Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ. Acts 2:36 (KJV)

Because He is Lord, you can make it through this life. He reigns in the heavens and will have His way in the earth. Trust Him, knowing that in the end, every knee shall bow, and every tongue confess; that is, acknowledge Christ as Lord.

You  should  count it a privilege that you can do it willingly and not by compulsion in that Day. Jesus is Lord and He will be Lord over every circumstance in situation in your life. Amen, God has made Jesus both Christ and Lord.

Prayer of the Week:

“Lord, help me to present my life and service to you in an acceptable manner. May my worship of Christ be acceptable always. Amen.”