Wednesday, September 30, 2009

GOD'S SUPPLY AND OUR NEED 4

ACCORDING TO HIS RICHES IN GLORY

Philippians 4:19 But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.

Remember the prophet's widow in 2 Kings 4 who only had a small bottle of oil, yet when she began to pour the oil in the vessels she had borrowed it kept pouring until she ran out of vessels. She had believed Elisha, the man of God.

Read the story over and think of the fact that if she had not run out of vessels the oil might still be running. She had her own oil well right there in her home.

The same is true of every need we have, physical, mental, and spiritual. God's supplies our need, not according to the natural resources but according to His riches in Glory.

I am a firm believer that we should be good stewards over the Earth. We should take care of our resources but the gloom and doom global warming crowd does not realize something very important. The Earth is going to last as long as God wants it to and the resources will last as long as He wants them to last. Aren't you glad that you don't have to worry about all that stuff because God is still in control.

Please feel free to contact me by email at .shilohkosciusko@gmail.com with questions, comments or even suggestions for further devotional studies.

If you know of someone new to the Kosciusko area and would like for our church to visit them please let us know. Our prayers are that this devotional ministry will be an outreach to bring people into a closer relationship with Jesus. I do appreciate you taking the time to read these devotionals and please keep us in your prayers.

Tuesday, September 29, 2009

GOD'S SUPPLY AND OUR NEED 3

GOD'S SUPPLY IS SUFFICIENT

Philippians 4:19 But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.

Remember that God is the creator of all things, therefore all things belong to Him. If you look at it from this point of view then you know that every need you have is met by God. He has enough of everything to supply our every need and He could always make more of whatever it is.
Once a congregation was getting ready to start a new building project. The pastor felt it was important for the members to depend on God to supply their needs and he led them to build the new building on faith. They were just to build as God supplied the funds for the building. Someone on the building committee said, "Don't you think it would be practical to go to the bank and get a line of credit just as a back-up plan."The pastor smiled and said, "I have never known of God to need a back-up plan of any kind."
Sometimes we are a lot like that man. We are afraid to completely trust God and we want a back-up plan. That is why the insurance business is so successful. Don't misunderstand me, I believe we should take precautions but I believe ultimately that it is God's health care plan that is best and not the governments. God can supply my needs.
Please feel free to contact me by email at shilohkosciusko@gmail.com with questions, comments or even suggestions for further devotional studies.
If you know of someone new to the Kosciusko area and would like for our church to visit them please let us know. Our prayers are that this devotional ministry will be an outreach to bring people into a closer relationship with Jesus. I do appreciate you taking the time to read these devotionals and please keep us in your prayers.

Monday, September 28, 2009

GOD'S SUPPLY AND OUR NEED 2

GOD IS THE SUPPLIER

Philippians 4:19 But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.

If you look closely at the verse you will notice that Paul said "my God". He was specific and we know that Paul's God was the God of the Old and New Testaments. He did not say some god, a god, or any god, he said "my God".
We hear much in the world today about diversity and about acceptance of other's belief systems. While I believe that we are to love everyone and we are to treat even the heathen with respect and caring, I also believe it is very dangerous to embrace a lie or accept a dangerous set of beliefs.
We must stand firm in believing that there is one True and that the Bible is His word to us. If something is contrary to the Bible then it should be contrary to our way of thinking. If we are going to depend upon God to supply our needs we need to recognize that He is the only source of the supply that we need.
One of the things I need, and God is supplying it as much as I will allow, is compassion and a burden for the enemies of Christianity. If we are to defeat them it will be by winning them to Christ.
Please feel free to contact me by email at shilohkosciusko@gmail.com with questions, comments or even suggestions for further devotional studies.
If you know of someone new to the Kosciusko area and would like for our church to visit them please let us know. Our prayers are that this devotional ministry will be an outreach to bring people into a closer relationship with Jesus. I do appreciate you taking the time to read these devotionals and please keep us in your prayers.

Sunday, September 27, 2009

GOD'S SUPPLY AND OUR NEED 1

Philippians 4:19 But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.
Introduction:
The Apostle Paul is writing to the church in Philippi concerning their care of him. He had been writing to them through the book because they were inclined to fall away from salvation by grace and revert back to salvation by works. We often seem to forget that God loves us and His grace supplies all our spiritual needs. God is able to supply our physical needs as well.
The church had provided for the material needs of Paul and Paul realized that it was God providing for him through this church. Sometimes we unrealistically expect God just to give us what we need in some mysterious and miraculous fashion.
God provides for our physical needs through our jobs and businesses. He gives us the physical abilities, the intellect and the opportunity to earn a living. These are things we should be thankful for every day and give thanks to God for them.
As we study these next few devotionals we need to come to an understanding that there is a huge difference between our needs and our wants. May God bless you as you read these devotionals each day.
Please feel free to contact me by email at
shilohkosciusko@gmail.com with questions, comments or even suggestions for further devotional studies.
If you know of someone new to the Kosciusko area and would like for our church to visit them please let us know. Our prayers are that this devotional ministry will be an outreach to bring people into a closer relationship with Jesus. I do appreciate you taking the time to read these devotionals and please keep us in your prayers.

Saturday, September 26, 2009

LIVING BY THE RULES 7

LISTEN TO THE ONE IN CHARGE

II Timothy 2:1-5 Thou therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. (2) And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also. (3) Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. (4) No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier. (5) And if a man also strive for masteries, yet is he not crowned, except he strive lawfully.

In sporting events the athletes must listen to the coach. No coach is going to let a player play who refuses to follow his instructions and is determined to run his own plays each time.
In the church we must follow the leadership of our Lord Jesus Christ and the leadership of His Holy Spirit. We must be sensitive to God's direction and sometimes we must just sit still and listen to God as He gives us our directions in a still small voice.
Always remember that God is in Charge. He is in control and He is the one to call the plays in life.
Live by the rules and find joy in it.
Please feel free to contact me by email at shilohkosciusko@gmail.com with questions, comments or even suggestions for further devotional studies.
If you know of someone new to the Kosciusko area and would like for our church to visit them please let us know. Our prayers are that this devotional ministry will be an outreach to bring people into a closer relationship with Jesus. I do appreciate you taking the time to read these devotionals and please keep us in your prayers.

Friday, September 25, 2009

LIVING BY THE RULES 6

DISCIPLINE AND SELF CONTROL

II Timothy 2:1-5 Thou therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. (2) And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also. (3) Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. (4) No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier. (5) And if a man also strive for masteries, yet is he not crowned, except he strive lawfully.

The Athlete must practice discipline and self control both on and off the playing field. They diet, exercise, and avoid activities that will harm their bodies.
Spiritually we too must practice discipline both in our church families and out in the world. Remember that you are the only Bible that some people ever read. If you are not in control of yourself what are they going to think of the relationship you have with Christ? People watch us. I know as a pastor that they watch me closely and I realize that I am usually held to a higher standard than the average church member. That's okay but I firmly believe that every Christian should not compare himself with the pastor but should strive to be more like Christ.
If you can control yourself to act Christlike in church as well as in the world you will definitely be a benefit to the spiritual team.
Please feel free to contact me by email at shilohkosciusko@gmail.com with questions, comments or even suggestions for further devotional studies.
If you know of someone new to the Kosciusko area and would like for our church to visit them please let us know. Our prayers are that this devotional ministry will be an outreach to bring people into a closer relationship with Jesus. I do appreciate you taking the time to read these devotionals and please keep us in your prayers.

Thursday, September 24, 2009

LIVING BY THE RULES 5

TEAMWORK

II Timothy 2:1-5 Thou therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. (2) And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also. (3) Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. (4) No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier. (5) And if a man also strive for masteries, yet is he not crowned, except he strive lawfully.

Teamwork is important to the athlete. It is also important to us in our spiritual life. You might feel that you are being part of the team just by attending church, and I hope you are, but sometimes you could be just being a spectator. Pick up a hymnbook and sing, become a part of a small group ministry, support and help with all the church ministries.
Teamwork is important away from the church services as well. I have always prayed daily but I found that once my wife and I began starting our day together with prayer as a team that it really made a difference in our lives. If your children are still at home make them part of the team. Find someone and team up to study the Bible. Get a partner to go out into the hedges and highways to seek the lost. Start a regular prayer group for a particular cause and watch as the Lord blesses your prayer team.
We are all in this together. Let's do it as a team.
Please feel free to contact me by email at shilohkosciusko@gmail.com with questions, comments or even suggestions for further devotional studies.
If you know of someone new to the Kosciusko area and would like for our church to visit them please let us know. Our prayers are that this devotional ministry will be an outreach to bring people into a closer relationship with Jesus. I do appreciate you taking the time to read these devotionals and please keep us in your prayers.

Wednesday, September 23, 2009

LIVING BY THE RULES 4

TRAINING

II Timothy 2:1-5 Thou therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. (2) And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also. (3) Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. (4) No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier. (5) And if a man also strive for masteries, yet is he not crowned, except he strive lawfully.

Great athletes have to train hard. They have to prepare themselves for the competition and stay mentally and physically in shape. Having natural talent is not enough. You have to build on the gifts that God has given you, in sports and in your Christian life.
Many people are not ready to serve God when the chance comes because they are not properly trained. We must study, we must pray, and we must exercise spiritually. By exercising spiritually I mean that we must put the things we have learned into action.
Many people start training and teaching their children about spiritual things when they are born. Sadly some of the same ones stop training and teaching in their teen years when they face the most trials and some never start back training on their own. If all the spiritual training you are getting is at church then you are under trained. You must strive to grow on your own by study and prayer. If you have trouble understanding the Bible there are many good books and there are devotionals such as this. This is the information age. How much information and learning are you receiving to help physically train yourself?
Please feel free to contact me by email at shilohkosciusko@gmail.com with questions, comments or even suggestions for further devotional studies.
If you know of someone new to the Kosciusko area and would like for our church to visit them please let us know. Our prayers are that this devotional ministry will be an outreach to bring people into a closer relationship with Jesus. I do appreciate you taking the time to read these devotionals and please keep us in your prayers.

Tuesday, September 22, 2009

LIVING BY THE RULES 3

LIVE WITH ENTHUSIASM

II Timothy 2:1-5 Thou therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. (2) And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also. (3) Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. (4) No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier. (5) And if a man also strive for masteries, yet is he not crowned, except he strive lawfully.
It is good to be zealous and enthusiastic if you participate in sports. It also helps if you try to live your life with enthusiasm.

I feel really blessed in the fact that even though I am 59 years old I still have many things in life I can be enthusiastic about. I look forward to writing and posting the devotionals each day and I am especially thrilled when I get a comment or email from someone who has been helped or encouraged by them. There are other things in my life that I am enthusiastic about. I look forward to each day with anticipation and excitement and also with the expectation that I will somehow receive a blessing.
Each of us as a Christian should be like the anxious player sitting on the bench hoping that he will finally get in the game. The great thing is that in God's work we don't have to sit on the bench. We should really be excited that there is plenty of room for all of us on the playing field.
Please feel free to contact me by email at
shilohkosciusko@gmail.com with questions, comments or even suggestions for further devotional studies.
If you know of someone new to the Kosciusko area and would like for our church to visit them please let us know. Our prayers are that this devotional ministry will be an outreach to bring people into a closer relationship with Jesus. I do appreciate you taking the time to read these devotionals and please keep us in your prayers.

Monday, September 21, 2009

LIVING BY THE RULES 2

ABIDE BY THE RULES

II Timothy 2:1-5 Thou therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. (2) And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also. (3) Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. (4) No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier. (5) And if a man also strive for masteries, yet is he not crowned, except he strive lawfully.
Athletes have their rules to play by. Christians have the Bible and God's principles to guide and direct them.
Rules in sports are their for a reason. They are there for fairness. While nowhere in the bible does it state that life is fair it certainly is much better if there are some rules to follow. God's commandments teach us that we are to treat people fairly and that everyone should have a chance. Many today do not want fairness but they would rather have preference. Be careful when you say, "life is not fair". The fact could be that you may not be taking advantage of the opportunities that God has given you.
Rules are in place in sporting events for for the purpose of safety. We are much safer in our Christian life if we follow such rules as avoiding temptation. There are many more but you get the general idea.
Rules are in place for the enjoyment of athletes. If the game is played by the rules you get much more enjoyment out of it. The rules and principles that God has given us are in place for our benefit. Sin is not forbidden just because it is sin. It is forbidden because it is harmful. God wants you to live a joy filled life conforming to the image of Jesus.
Please feel free to contact me by email at shilohkosciusko@gmail.com with questions, comments or even suggestions for further devotional studies.
If you know of someone new to the Kosciusko area and would like for our church to visit them please let us know. Our prayers are that this devotional ministry will be an outreach to bring people into a closer relationship with Jesus. I do appreciate you taking the time to read these devotionals and please keep us in your prayers.

Sunday, September 20, 2009

LIVING BY THE RULES 1

II Timothy 2:1-5 Thou therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. (2) And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also. (3) Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. (4) No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier. (5) And if a man also strive for masteries, yet is he not crowned, except he strive lawfully.

Paul used many common place things and events to show forth the principles of Christian living. In these verses he compares the Christian life to a soldier and an athlete. I will be using the comparison of Christians to athletes in the next few devotionals. Some of the same elements that lead to the success of an athlete are true for living a successful Christian life also.
To live a good Christian life you have to abide by the rules and you can hardly abide by rules you don't know. The best way to learn them is to study your Bible with a desire to grow closer to our Lord.
I hope you can gain something out of this series of devotionals. Please feel free to contact me by email at
shilohkosciusko@gmail.com with questions, comments or even suggestions for further devotional studies.
If you know of someone new to the Kosciusko area and would like for our church to visit them please let us know. Our prayers are that this devotional ministry will be an outreach to bring people into a closer relationship with Jesus. I do appreciate you taking the time to read these devotionals and please keep us in your prayers.

Saturday, September 19, 2009

Study Outline 3

JUSTIFIED AND RECONCILED TO GOD
Romans 5:1-5

I. BRINGS PEACE
VS. 1 (If you are not at peace you there is something you need to have reconciled)
YOU MUST HAVE FAITH IN GOD.

II. GIVES ACCESS-
VS.2 (OPEN COMMUNICATIONS WITH THE GOD OF CREATION THROUGH THE BLOOD OF CHRIST.)

III. BRINGS JOY-
VS.2 (IF YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD IS NOT ONE OF JOY IT IS OUT OF HARMONY WITH THE WILL OF GOD)
IV. BRINGS GLORY EVEN IN TIME OF TRIAL VS.3 (IT IS GODS PURPOSE TO BE GLORIFIED AND NOT PACIFIED BY YOU)

V. BUILDS PATIENCE-
VS.4 (Rom 8:28) And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.
KNOW THAT GOD WILL NEVER LEAVE YOU OR FORSAKE YOU

VI. GIVES US EXPERIENCE-
VS. 4 BY EXPERIENCE OUR FAITH INCREASES BECAUSE WE LEARN TO TRUST GOD

VII. CAUSES US TO HAVE HOPE
VS.5 (ROM. 8:28 AGAIN) VICTORY IS CERTAIN

IX. ALLOWS US TO SHARE THE LOVE OF CHRIST
VS. 5 (2 Cor 5:18) And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation;

Friday, September 18, 2009

MAN WITH A PURPOSE 5

GREAT THINGS ARE DONE BY MEN WITH GOD'S PURPOSE IN THEIR HEART
Daniel 1:8 But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king's meat, nor with the wine which he drank: therefore he requested of the prince of the eunuchs that he might not defile himself.

Daniel did not just do right out of habit, though it is good to form the habit of doing right. He made a decision to do the right thing and followed it through.
Daniel did not just decide to do right because it was convenient. He did it many times in spite of dire circumstances.
When you study your Bible you find that great things were done for God by men who had a purpose given to them by God. Surely the apostle Paul was a man of purpose as were the Old Testament Saints.
History and even current events show us how men with a purpose further the cause of God. The pilgrims had a purpose to establish a place where they could worship freely. The founding fathers of our nation had a purpose to guarantee that freedom to generations to come. Missionaries and Pastors that are preaching the truth from pulpits around the world are men with a purpose.
Purpose in your heart to serve God with all your strength and abilities.

Thursday, September 17, 2009

MAN WITH A PURPOSE 4

THEY TOOK PLEASURE IN PLEASING GOD

Daniel 1:5 And the king appointed them a daily provision of the king's meat, and of the wine which he drank: so nourishing them three years, that at the end thereof they might stand before the king.
Daniel 1:8 But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king's meat, nor with the wine which he drank: therefore he requested of the prince of the eunuchs that he might not defile himself.

I hope you will go to your bibles and read this entire account and you would do well to read the other accounts of Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah being faithful to God.
These four outstanding examples to us all took great pleasure in pleasing God. Wouldn't our lives be more fulfilled if we took as much pleasure in pleasing God as we do in pleasing others and ourselves?
We should take pleasure in worship. Some do, while others seem to get little pleasure from it. We should take pleasure in laboring for the Lord by witnessing. When we can reach a spiritual level where we take pleasure in pleasing Him, we can then enjoy the abundant life that Jesus came to give us.

Wednesday, September 16, 2009

MAN WITH A PURPOSE 3

HIS PURPOSE WAS NOT PLEASURE

Daniel 1:5 And the king appointed them a daily provision of the king's meat, and of the wine which he drank: so nourishing them three years, that at the end thereof they might stand before the king.
Daniel 1:8 But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king's meat, nor with the wine which he drank: therefore he requested of the prince of the eunuchs that he might not defile himself.


Daniel didn't decide to eat pulse and water instead of the Kings best table fare for pleasure. I'm not really sure what pulse is but it doesn't sound all that tasty to me. I am sure the food that was fit for a King was well... just that, fit for a King.
Sometimes we look at what will bring us instant gratification instead of what is best for us in the long run. Looking back over my life I can see where I made some terrible decisions that I am paying for today.
Don't let anyone tell you that there is no pleasure in sin. If it were not pleasurable it would not be a problem to avoid sinning. The point is that sin has built in penalties of it's own. A famous preacher once said, "Sin will take you farther than you want stray, it will keep you longer than you want to stay, and it will cost you more than you want to pay."
Don't look for the instant pleasures in life. Do the right thing and you will be better for it in the long run.

Tuesday, September 15, 2009

MAN WITH A PURPOSE 2

MAKING UP YOUR MIND

Daniel 1:8 But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king's meat, nor with the wine which he drank: therefore he requested of the prince of the eunuchs that he might not defile himself.
Daniel did that which was best for him because he purposed in his heart to do the right thing. In more modern terms he made up his mind to do the right thing. Sometimes the first step to a closer walk with God is just making up your mind to do it.

He didn't do it because it was expedient. It wasn't the easiest thing he could have done but sometimes the easiest thing is not the best. Most of the time the greatest rewards come from putting in more effort.
My wife and I are very seldom if ever late getting to church, or to anywhere else that we are supposed to be at a certain time. It takes some effort but we make up our minds to start on time and you would be surprised at the amount of stress that can be reduced from your life if you just decide to be on time. (The world will not wait on you.) It might be easier to be late for church or stay home altogether but you miss many blessings if you do.
Sometimes it is easier not to witness than to witness to someone but when we pass up an opportunity it may never come again. The blessing of telling someone about Jesus is one of the biggest blessings of being a Christian.
Sometimes it might seem easier to just sit still and stagnate instead of being an alive and vibrant member of the Lord's church. It might be easier but if you make up your mind to serve the Lord with all your effort you will not regret it.

Monday, September 14, 2009

A MAN WITH A PURPOSE 1

Daniel 1:8 But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king's meat, nor with the wine which he drank: therefore he requested of the prince of the eunuchs that he might not defile himself.
Daniel made a decision to do what he felt God would have him do and decided to stick with it. While the King and his servants (the government) thought they knew what was best for Daniel and the others Daniel knew better and was not about to be forced to do something he felt was against God's teachings.
We are all under authority of some form of Government and certainly we should obey the laws of the land. It becomes a different situation completely when those laws are contrary to the teachings of God. When there is a conflict between man's law and God's law we are obligated to choose the higher authority, which is always God.
The next few devotionals will deal with Daniel knowing his purpose was to obey God. I hope you can gain something from this that will help you in your every day experiences.

Sunday, September 13, 2009

Rambler 123

HOW TO HAVE SPIRITUAL PROSPERITY 6

TO HAVE SPIRITUAL PROSPERITY PRAY PROPERLY

James 4:2-3 Ye lust, and have not: ye kill, and desire to have, and cannot obtain: ye fight and war, yet ye have not, because ye ask not. (3) Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume upon your lusts.

We fail to prosper because we fail to pray. If we really examine our prayer life we will see how little time we really spend in "effectual fervent prayer". One of the things I have noticed when I have read biographies of men who have been greatly blessed and used of God is that they have a very strong and active prayer life.
Sometimes when we do pray we ask amiss. We ask for what we want and what we think we would like instead of seeking what would Glorify God. Even when we pray for someone to be saved or move closer to the Lord sometimes we pray selfishly because we love them or it would make life easier on us. We should pray for these things because God is glorified in these actions. If we seek things for God's Glory instead of our desires we will begin to spiritually prosper.
If we are to have power we must pray for God's direction, God's leadership, and seek God's will in all things.
May you prosper in your spiritual life. If you don't know Jesus as your Savior please invite Him into your heart. If you are saved and not growing ask God to give you a desire to become spiritually strong for His Glory.

Saturday, September 12, 2009

HOW TO HAVE SPIRITUAL PROSPERITY 5

TO HAVE SPIRITUAL PROSPERITY BE ZEALOUS

Titus 2:13-14 Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Savior Jesus Christ; (14) Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.

We should have a zeal to know God and a Zeal to serve Him. He created us and He created us for a purpose. When we are fulfilling that purpose He is fulfilling us. He is prospering us so that we may be better able to do His will.
We should have a zeal to encourage and help our brothers and sisters in Christ and not only in our own church but other Christians we know as well. I sometimes have sweet fellowship and become more zealous just from talking to strangers that love the same Jesus I do.
We should have a zeal to lead the lost to Christ. Our lives here on this Earth are temporary and as James says, "Our life is but a vapour that appeareth for a little while and then vanisheth away." We will be dead a whole lot longer than we will be alive. That is something to think about when you are sharing the plan of salvation with someone.
If you have a spiritual zeal to please God you will prosper spiritually.

Friday, September 11, 2009

HOW TO HAVE SPIRITUAL PROSPERITY 4

TO PROSPER WE MUST BE GROWING AND LEARNING

1 Peter 2:2 As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby:

We should crave spiritual nourishment. Instead of worrying how long the preacher is going to preach you should have a sense of anticipation about what God is going to say especially to you in the message. You should always listen to sermons with a pen and paper to take notes. A hungry heart will always be fed. When you study your Bible jot things down. Write down questions to discuss in Bible Study and Sunday School. Be an active student who really wants to learn God's word.
If a baby never grows physically we rush them to the doctor to find out what is wrong. We certainly know that if they do not develop at all that something is wrong. Why then do we accept that people who are born again remain spiritual babes until the Lord calls them home.Instead of really getting into the meat of God's word and growing strong in the Lord too many people want to be spoon fed by the preacher and Sunday School teacher, and then they only want to eat the fruit and sweet stuff, not the vegetables and meat they need to mature.
Develop a hunger for the Word of God. Ask God to give you a hungry heart that you might desire to know Him better.

Thursday, September 10, 2009

HOW TO HAVE SPIRITUAL PROSPERITY III

WE MUST FOCUS ON SPIRITUAL THINGS

Romans 8:6 For to be [carnally minded] death; but to be spiritually minded life and peace.

The apostle Paul said: Philippians 1:21 For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.
In a sort of way these two verses say the same thing. If you whole focus in life is making money or having possessions then when you die it will be a loss. Have you ever seen a U-haul trailer behind a hearse? Of course not because no one takes it with Him when he goes.
Some people are completely focused on their families. Families are wonderful but without Christ every loss of a family member is a tragedy. When a family is Christ centered there is hope of a reunion even after death.
Everything in this life will pass away some day. Only Jesus is eternal. Invest your time, your thoughts, and your efforts in the right relationship with Him and everything else will take care of itself.

Wednesday, September 9, 2009

HOW TO PROSPER AS A CHRISTIAN II

BUILD ON THE RIGHT FOUNDATION

Mt 16:16-18 And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. (17) And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven. (18) And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.

Whatever else we might do in our Christian lives as individuals or as churches we must build on the right foundation. In these verses He is not saying He will build his church upon Peter but upon the fact that Peter just proclaimed, "Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God."

Psalms 118:21-22 I will praise thee: for thou hast heard me, and art become my salvation. {22} The stone the builders refused is become the head of the corner.

One can not possibly prosper spiritually without accepting Jesus as his Lord and Savior. A church can not prosper if it is trying to build upon any other foundation. Jesus did not say He would build His church upon programs, fellowships, special meetings or anything that man might put together. He said He would build it upon the gospel. The "Good News" that Jesus is the Christ. He is the way of Salvation and there is no other.

Focus your life on Jesus and build on that relationship with Him and you will experience spiritual prosperity.

Tuesday, September 8, 2009

HOW TO PROSPER AS A CHRISTIAN

INTRODUCTION TO PROSPERITY

Ps 118:20-25 This gate of the LORD, into which the righteous shall enter. (21) I will praise thee: for thou hast heard me, and art become my salvation. (22) The stone which the builders refused is become the head stone of the corner.(23) This is the LORD'S doing; it is marvellous in our eyes.(24) This is the day which the LORD hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it. (25) Save now, I beseech thee, O LORD: O LORD, I beseech thee, send now prosperity.

As the psalmist calls out to God here, so should we as Christians individually and collectively in our churches. Salvation is a wonderful thing but we should seek spiritual prosperity.
There are many was we can spiritually prosper and the next few devotionals will be devoted to that subject.
NOTE: Feel free to use these devotionals in any way to further our Lord's kingdom. You may forward them in emails, put them in your Newsletters or whatever. We feel that God has directed us to write these devotionals, they are His and for His Glory. Feel free to use or share them in any way that might bring Him Glory.

Sunday, September 6, 2009

ONE DAY AT A TIME

James 4:13-14Go to now, ye that say, To day or to morrow we will go into such acity, and continue there a year, and buy and sell, and get gain:(14)Whereas ye know not what on the morrow. For what yourlife? It is even a [vapour], that appeareth for a little time, andthen vanisheth away.

Life is not difficult if we take it one day at a time. Jesus taught us to take one day at a time.

Matthew 6:34Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day the evil thereof.

It can be overwhelming to try to plan a lifetime. What we need to do is make the best of each day that God has given us.

TODAY I WILL:
1. WORK ON MY LITTLE PROBLEMS AND NOT TRY TO SOLVE EVERYTHING AT ONCE

2. MAKE UP MY MIND TO BE AS HAPPY AS I POSSIBLY CAN Abraham Lincoln said, "Most folks are about as happy as they makeup their minds to be."

3. TODAY I WILL DEAL WITH THINGS REALISTICALLY There is a little prayer that you see on a lot of plaques and pictures that simply says, "Lord help me to be reasonable. There are things in the world that need to be different. Help me to change the things I can and accept the things I cannot change."

4. TODAY I WILL SPEND SOME QUIET TIME WITH GOD TODAY I WILL PRAY: TODAY I WILL READ AND STUDY GOD'S WORD TODAY I WILL MEDITATE AND THINK FOR AWHILE ON SPIRITUAL THINGS
5. TODAY I WILL TRY TO FINISH SOMETHING I HAVE BEEN PUTTING OFF.

6. TODAY I WILL WORK ON SOME AREA OF MY LIFE AND TRY TO IMPROVE. I WILL ESPECIALLY TRY TO GROW SPIRITUALLY TODAY.

7. TODAY I WILL BE EASY TO GET ALONG WITH

8. TODAY I WILL TRY DO MY BEST TO WITNESS TO SOMEONE WHO IS LOST.


Saturday, September 5, 2009

WE SHOULD BE MOVED WITH COMPASSION

Matthew 9:36 But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd.
Jesus had compassion on the hungry multitude, both the physically hungry and the spiritually hungry. We too should be moved with compassion.
We should have compassion for those less fortunate and do what we can to help them. I am a firm believer that the welfare state in our country is a destructive force. It is far more compassionate to give people a hand than it is to give them a handout. I am not saying that there aren't times when we must charitably give to people. Many people find themselves in dire straits through no fault of their own.I am saying how much more compassionate it is to teach someone to take care of themselves than it is to just take care of them.
We should be moved to minister to others. Sometimes our compassion may lead us into a special ministry. Visiting the elderly in a nursing home or working with disabled veterans are great ministries and all you need is a compassionate heart and some time. Mentoring young people is a wonderful ministry, especially with so many without a proper family environment.
We should be moved by compassion for the lost. It is easy to complain about the crime and all the sin in the world but what are we doing to help with the problem. If we have compassion on the lost we will tell them about Jesus and His wonderful plan of Salvation.

Friday, September 4, 2009

WE SHOULD BE MOVED BY GODLY FEAR

Acts 24:24-25 And after certain days, when Felix came with his wife Drusilla, which was a Jewess, he sent for Paul, and heard him concerning the faith in Christ. {25} And as he reasoned of righteousness, temperance, and judgment to come, Felix trembled, and answered, Go thy way for this time; when I have a convenient season, I will call for thee.
We should be moved with conviction of the sin in our life. Unlike Felix we should make things right with God at this time and not try to wait for a convenient season. What could be more convenient than right now.
Once we are moved by God to be convicted (strongly convinced of the seriousness) of our sins we should be moved to repentance. We hear the word repent a lot. What it really means is a change of direction. Repentance should bring about a change of heart so strong that it cause a change of our direction. Instead of moving away from God we will move toward Him.
The closer we move toward God, the closer we move to righteousness. Righteousness can only be found and achieved through Jesus Christ.Don't wait for a convenient season. Move toward God now.

Thursday, September 3, 2009

WE SHOULD BE MOVED BY OUR FAITH

Hebrews 11:7 By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith.
We need to be moved by having faith in God's warnings. When Noah built the Ark it had never rained before, a mist came up from the ground and watered the Earth. Noah believed God's warning and built the Ark. The whole human race was saved because Noah believed God was going to send a flood. Only His family survived, therefore, we are all descendants of Noah.
We also need to be moved by faith in God's promises. Just as with a warning, a promise will come to pass. Many of God's promises are conditional. If we really have faith we will accept the conditions.Always remember that it is God's desire to bless you and for you to have the best. He has let us know the way to have the very best through His promises in the Bible. Sometimes it takes faith not to settle for what we think is good and lose what God says is best.

Wednesday, September 2, 2009

WE SHOULD BE MOVED BY THE SPIRIT

Judges 13:24-25 And the woman bare a son, and called his name Samson: and thechild grew, and the LORD blessed him. (25) And the spirit of the LORD began to move him at times in thecamp of Dan between Zorah and Eshtaol.

2 Peter 1:21 For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake moved by the Holy Ghost.

Sometimes we know the Spirit is moving us to speak to someone. Maybe it is to share the gospel, maybe it is to encourage them, and maybe it is to gently rebuke them for some sin. So often we struggle to keep from saying something when it is really time to all the Spirit to move us to speak.
There are also times when the Spirit moves us to act and we do nothing. We might be afraid or timid. We might not want to make a committment or there may be some other reason. When the Spirit of God leads us to act we should act. God will not lead us to do somehthing that He will not Help us do.
We should let the Spitit move us toward worship of God. The best definition I have ever heard of Worship is : an overflowing adoration. So many times we meet and sing, listen to the preaching, have an invitation and go home without ever worshiping. If we are sensitive to the leading of the Spirit we will be drawn into worshipful experience.

Tuesday, September 1, 2009

WE SHOULD BE MOVED BY GOD

2 Chronicles 18:31 And it came to pass, when the captains of the chariots saw Jehoshaphat, that they said, It the king of Israel. Therefore they compassed about him to fight: but Jehoshaphat cried out, and the LORD helped him; and God moved them from him.

We should pray for God to remove the obstacles that keep us from serving Him. The obstacles are many and sometimes they are so overwhelming that we can't work our way around them on our own. Sometimes calling out to God for Him to remove the obstacles is the only way. God doesn't want anything standing in the way of our serving Him. You have to be careful when you ask God to remove an obstacle you might be asking Him to remove an opportunity.

We should ask God to move our enemies. You notice that I didn't say remove them. It is imperative that we pray for our enemies and strive to win them to the Lord. If we pray for God to move them and to change their hearts they will no longer be our enemies but will become our Brothers and Sisters in Christ.

We shoul pray for God to move in our own hearts and give us a burden for the lost and a burning desire to serve Him better. When God moves us it is always in the right direction.