Wednesday, July 28, 2010
SORRY ABOUT THE DEVOTIONALS
Sorry about the Devotionals not being posted. I have had some medical problems (which by the way are fine now thanks to a lot of prayers.) I was not able to get to an internet connection last week to upload the devotionals and I was not able to complete writing them. I have some completed now and will begin to publish them again on Monday August 2nd. Thank you for your patience.
Sunday, July 25, 2010
DON'T WORRY ABOUT OTHERS
Jeremy Burkes
John 21:20-22 Then Peter, turning about, seeth the disciple whom Jesus loved following; which also leaned on his breast at supper, and said, Lord, which is he that betrayeth thee? (21) Peter seeing him saith to Jesus, Lord, and what shall this man do? (22) Jesus saith unto him, If I will that he tarry till I come, what is that to thee? follow thou me.
Just before this passage Jesus asked Peter three times, "Do you love me?". He asks us that same thing. When we willingly sin against Him we should ask ourselves that question.
Just as He told Peter to follow Him he tells us the same thing. He has asked us to believe in Him and be saved. After this we are given further instructions. The closer we follow His instructions them more aware we are of His blessings.
Sometimes we wonder why others seem to reap more blessings than we do. Maybe Jesus would say to us as he did Peter, "Don't worry about someone else. You follow me." Your ministry may be different from someone else's so don't worry about what others are doing. Just follow Jesus and do what He would have you do.
John 21:20-22 Then Peter, turning about, seeth the disciple whom Jesus loved following; which also leaned on his breast at supper, and said, Lord, which is he that betrayeth thee? (21) Peter seeing him saith to Jesus, Lord, and what shall this man do? (22) Jesus saith unto him, If I will that he tarry till I come, what is that to thee? follow thou me.
Just before this passage Jesus asked Peter three times, "Do you love me?". He asks us that same thing. When we willingly sin against Him we should ask ourselves that question.
Just as He told Peter to follow Him he tells us the same thing. He has asked us to believe in Him and be saved. After this we are given further instructions. The closer we follow His instructions them more aware we are of His blessings.
Sometimes we wonder why others seem to reap more blessings than we do. Maybe Jesus would say to us as he did Peter, "Don't worry about someone else. You follow me." Your ministry may be different from someone else's so don't worry about what others are doing. Just follow Jesus and do what He would have you do.
Saturday, July 24, 2010
WHERE IS THE LORD 6
2Kings 2:14 And he took the mantle of Elijah that fell from him, and smote the waters, and said, Where is the LORD God of Elijah? and when he also had smitten the waters, they parted hither and thither: and Elisha went over.
Conclusion:
We might ask ourselves today "Where is God?".
Where is the God of Calvary? He is still offering Himself as a sacrifice for the sins of man.
Where is the God of our Fathers? He is still in charge and He has not changed one bit. No matter how society changes or customs change we serve an unchangeable God. He is perfect and there is no need for change.
Where is the God of the great evangelist of the 19th century? He is still working in men's hearts who are totally dedicated to him. Where are these men?
Where is the God of our youth? He is still a loving Father to each of us. God has not moved. It is us who have wandered and need to be back on the path of reconciliation with God.
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.
Conclusion:
We might ask ourselves today "Where is God?".
Where is the God of Calvary? He is still offering Himself as a sacrifice for the sins of man.
Where is the God of our Fathers? He is still in charge and He has not changed one bit. No matter how society changes or customs change we serve an unchangeable God. He is perfect and there is no need for change.
Where is the God of the great evangelist of the 19th century? He is still working in men's hearts who are totally dedicated to him. Where are these men?
Where is the God of our youth? He is still a loving Father to each of us. God has not moved. It is us who have wandered and need to be back on the path of reconciliation with God.
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, July 23, 2010
WHERE IS THE LORD 5
2Kings 2:14 And he took the mantle of Elijah that fell from him, and smote the waters, and said, Where is the LORD God of Elijah? and when he also had smitten the waters, they parted hither and thither: and Elisha went over.
WE MAY NEED TO CRY OUT TODAY BECAUSE OF IDOLATRY
The True and Living God is the God of Creation. He is not
The god of education,
The god of government,
The god of society,
The god of humanism,
The god of liberalism,
But He is the True and Living God as depicted in the Bible.
Let us bow down to Him and to Him only.
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.
WE MAY NEED TO CRY OUT TODAY BECAUSE OF IDOLATRY
The True and Living God is the God of Creation. He is not
The god of education,
The god of government,
The god of society,
The god of humanism,
The god of liberalism,
But He is the True and Living God as depicted in the Bible.
Let us bow down to Him and to Him only.
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, July 22, 2010
WHERE IS THE LORD 4
2Kings 2:14 And he took the mantle of Elijah that fell from him, and smote the waters, and said, Where is the LORD God of Elijah? and when he also had smitten the waters, they parted hither and thither: and Elisha went over.
GOD REVEALS HIMSELF FROM TIME TO TIME
1 Kings 18:36-39 And it came to pass at the time of the offering of the evening sacrifice, that Elijah the prophet came near, and said, LORD God of Abraham, Isaac, and of Israel, let it be known this day that thou art God in Israel, and that I am thy servant, and that I have done all these things at thy word. {37} Hear me, O LORD, hear me, that this people may know that thou art the LORD God, and that thou hast turned their heart back again. {38} Then the fire of the LORD fell, and consumed the burnt sacrifice, and the wood, and the stones, and the dust, and licked up the water that was in the trench. {39} And when all the people saw it, they fell on their faces: and they said, The LORD, he is the God; the LORD, he is the God.
This is a great story of God revealing Himself in the Bible. He showed His presence to His people. I personally believe God still reveals Himself even though it might not be in such a spectacular way. He shows Himself to us in nature.
He reveals Himself in the miracles He performs in our lives everyday. He is in love and forgiveness. He is in our joy and in our peace. He is with us when we are comforted.
We do not have to have fire come down from Heaven for us to know that The Lord truly is God.
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.
GOD REVEALS HIMSELF FROM TIME TO TIME
1 Kings 18:36-39 And it came to pass at the time of the offering of the evening sacrifice, that Elijah the prophet came near, and said, LORD God of Abraham, Isaac, and of Israel, let it be known this day that thou art God in Israel, and that I am thy servant, and that I have done all these things at thy word. {37} Hear me, O LORD, hear me, that this people may know that thou art the LORD God, and that thou hast turned their heart back again. {38} Then the fire of the LORD fell, and consumed the burnt sacrifice, and the wood, and the stones, and the dust, and licked up the water that was in the trench. {39} And when all the people saw it, they fell on their faces: and they said, The LORD, he is the God; the LORD, he is the God.
This is a great story of God revealing Himself in the Bible. He showed His presence to His people. I personally believe God still reveals Himself even though it might not be in such a spectacular way. He shows Himself to us in nature.
He reveals Himself in the miracles He performs in our lives everyday. He is in love and forgiveness. He is in our joy and in our peace. He is with us when we are comforted.
We do not have to have fire come down from Heaven for us to know that The Lord truly is God.
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, July 21, 2010
WHERE IS THE LORD 3
2Kings 2:14 And he took the mantle of Elijah that fell from him, and smote the waters, and said, Where is the LORD God of Elijah? and when he also had smitten the waters, they parted hither and thither: and Elisha went over.
HE IS STILL PROVIDING FOR HIS PEOPLE
1 Kings 17:3-4 Get thee hence, and turn thee eastward, and hide thyself by the brook Cherith, that is before Jordan. (4)And it shall be, that thou shalt drink of the brook; and I have commanded the ravens to feed thee there.
1 Kings 17:6 And the ravens brought him bread and flesh in the morning, and bread and flesh in the evening; and he drank of the brook.
This past week I had an appointment with my cardiologist and the nurse and I usually get in a humorous argument about my list of medicine. As usual this time I had forgotten to list one of the medicines and she said, "You probably don't even know what it is for in anyway." I assured her that I knew that it was for congested heart failure and added, "Those pills have been keeping me alive for several years." She shot back, "No they haven't, the Lord has been keeping you alive and if he gets ready to take you home these pills won't stop him."
We had a good laugh and I agreed with her. Sometimes we are thankful for what we have but we forget to be thankful for The One who really provides everything for us. Just as God sent the birds who fed Elijah he also provides the jobs that feed us, the trees for houses to house us and also the medicine that the doctors prescribe for us.
God is still providing for us and we should never forget where all of our blessings come from.
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.
HE IS STILL PROVIDING FOR HIS PEOPLE
1 Kings 17:3-4 Get thee hence, and turn thee eastward, and hide thyself by the brook Cherith, that is before Jordan. (4)And it shall be, that thou shalt drink of the brook; and I have commanded the ravens to feed thee there.
1 Kings 17:6 And the ravens brought him bread and flesh in the morning, and bread and flesh in the evening; and he drank of the brook.
This past week I had an appointment with my cardiologist and the nurse and I usually get in a humorous argument about my list of medicine. As usual this time I had forgotten to list one of the medicines and she said, "You probably don't even know what it is for in anyway." I assured her that I knew that it was for congested heart failure and added, "Those pills have been keeping me alive for several years." She shot back, "No they haven't, the Lord has been keeping you alive and if he gets ready to take you home these pills won't stop him."
We had a good laugh and I agreed with her. Sometimes we are thankful for what we have but we forget to be thankful for The One who really provides everything for us. Just as God sent the birds who fed Elijah he also provides the jobs that feed us, the trees for houses to house us and also the medicine that the doctors prescribe for us.
God is still providing for us and we should never forget where all of our blessings come from.
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, July 20, 2010
WHERE IS THE LORD 2
2Kings 2:14 And he took the mantle of Elijah that fell from him, and smote the waters, and said, Where is the LORD God of Elijah? and when he also had smitten the waters, they parted hither and thither: and Elisha went over.
GOD IS PRESENT AND HE STILL CONTROLS THE WEATHER
1 Kings 17:1 And Elijah the Tishbite, who was of the inhabitants of Gilead, said unto Ahab, As the LORD God of Israel liveth, before whom I stand, there shall not be dew nor rain these years, but according to my word.
Just as God used the drought back in those days as a way to get the attention of the people who had become idolatrous and turned from Him, I believe He is still sometimes doing the same today.
This has been one of the most awful years I can ever remember for tornadoes. You may ask why Christian people are suffering along with the non Christians. That is the problem with things like this. "It rains on the just and the unjust."
Even Christians are not as dedicated as they should be and many are just marginally serving the Lord. God is Holy, He is almighty, He is our Creator and He demands first place in our lives.
He is in control of all the elements and we should never forget it. We should stop, examine our priorities and turn to God. He has ways of getting our attention.
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.
GOD IS PRESENT AND HE STILL CONTROLS THE WEATHER
1 Kings 17:1 And Elijah the Tishbite, who was of the inhabitants of Gilead, said unto Ahab, As the LORD God of Israel liveth, before whom I stand, there shall not be dew nor rain these years, but according to my word.
Just as God used the drought back in those days as a way to get the attention of the people who had become idolatrous and turned from Him, I believe He is still sometimes doing the same today.
This has been one of the most awful years I can ever remember for tornadoes. You may ask why Christian people are suffering along with the non Christians. That is the problem with things like this. "It rains on the just and the unjust."
Even Christians are not as dedicated as they should be and many are just marginally serving the Lord. God is Holy, He is almighty, He is our Creator and He demands first place in our lives.
He is in control of all the elements and we should never forget it. We should stop, examine our priorities and turn to God. He has ways of getting our attention.
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, July 19, 2010
WHERE IS THE LORD 1
2Kings 2:14 And he took the mantle of Elijah that fell from him, and smote the waters, and said, Where is the LORD God of Elijah? and when he also had smitten the waters, they parted hither and thither: and Elisha went over.
INTRODUCTION: Elisha had been given the prophetic ministry of Elijah. He knew that the one thing he needed most to carry out the ministry he had been called to was the Lord. He knew that there was no other way that he could do the things that had to be done.
I think today for many who are trying to serve God a great question would be "Where is the Lord God of Elijah?"
It doesn't help to ask that question if you are not going to trust Him. Elisha had seen Elijah part the waters and he knew that God was able to do the same for Him. I really don't think Elisha was testing God. I think he was just reassuring himself that it was God that had placed him in this awesome place of ministry.
Sometimes we need to stop and ask ourselves. Just what place does the Lord have in what I am doing? Just how much do I rely on Him to give me strength and power to do what He has called me to do?
The Lord God of Elijah is the same today as he was in the days of these prophets. The next few devotionals will deal with this subject. I hope you receive a blessing from them.
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.
INTRODUCTION: Elisha had been given the prophetic ministry of Elijah. He knew that the one thing he needed most to carry out the ministry he had been called to was the Lord. He knew that there was no other way that he could do the things that had to be done.
I think today for many who are trying to serve God a great question would be "Where is the Lord God of Elijah?"
It doesn't help to ask that question if you are not going to trust Him. Elisha had seen Elijah part the waters and he knew that God was able to do the same for Him. I really don't think Elisha was testing God. I think he was just reassuring himself that it was God that had placed him in this awesome place of ministry.
Sometimes we need to stop and ask ourselves. Just what place does the Lord have in what I am doing? Just how much do I rely on Him to give me strength and power to do what He has called me to do?
The Lord God of Elijah is the same today as he was in the days of these prophets. The next few devotionals will deal with this subject. I hope you receive a blessing from them.
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, July 18, 2010
GO
Go tell my brethren - Matthew 28:10
Go into the village over against you - Matthew 21:9
Go therefore, and teach all nations - Matthew 28:19
Go ye into all world and preach - Mark 16:15
Go unto my brethren, and say unto them...John 20:17
Go unto this people and say .... Acts 28:26
Go home to thy Friends, and tell them Mark 5:19
Go out quickly into the streets and lanes...Luke 14:21
Go back again ! - 1 Kings 19:20
Go into the village over against you - Matthew 21:9
Go therefore, and teach all nations - Matthew 28:19
Go ye into all world and preach - Mark 16:15
Go unto my brethren, and say unto them...John 20:17
Go unto this people and say .... Acts 28:26
Go home to thy Friends, and tell them Mark 5:19
Go out quickly into the streets and lanes...Luke 14:21
Go back again ! - 1 Kings 19:20
Saturday, July 17, 2010
TAKE HEED CONCLUSION
WE NEED TO WATCH OUR ACTIONS
Mark 13:31 Heaven and earth shall pass away: but my words shall not pass away. (32) But of that day and that hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels which are in heaven, neither the Son, but the Father. (33) Take ye heed, watch and pray: for ye know not when the time is. (34) For the Son of man is as a man taking a far journey, who left his house, and gave authority to his servants, and to every man his work, and commanded the porter to watch. (35) Watch ye therefore: for ye know not when the master of the house cometh, at even, or at midnight, or at the cockcrowing, or in the morning (36) Lest coming suddenly he find you sleeping. (37) And what I say unto you I say unto all, Watch.
I guess the best way to end this series is with a warning.
We need to watch.
We need to watch what we say because we never know who is listening.
We need to watch how we dress because we don't know what kind of influence we might be having on others.
We need to watch where we go because it might hurt our Christian testimony.
We need to watch how we act and how we behave. Jesus is coming again and we need to be watching for Him to return.
Friday, July 16, 2010
TAKE HEED 6
TAKE HEED THAT WE DO NOT LEAVE THE SERVICE OF GOD
Heb 3:12 Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God.
Many today seem to be falling away from serving God. Recently a pastor and I had a discussion about this same subject. He commented that he felt like that many were never saved in the first place. I believe that is a possibility but I am very careful about judging another person's relationship with Christ. The only way you have or knowing or thinking that I am a Christian is by taking my word for it. I hope you can also see some evidence of it in my life.
The church is very important to God. Your participation in a scriptural New Testament Church is very important. It is through the church that God receives glory. If you are in a church that you don't believe is scriptural by all means find one that is.
I believe that a persons commitment to a church is very important. I believe you should give your very best to the service of your church.
One question I ask a lot is, "If your church were made up of people just like you, what kind of church would you have?"
Take heed. The ministry of the church is dependent upon dedicated born again Christians.
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.
Heb 3:12 Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God.
Many today seem to be falling away from serving God. Recently a pastor and I had a discussion about this same subject. He commented that he felt like that many were never saved in the first place. I believe that is a possibility but I am very careful about judging another person's relationship with Christ. The only way you have or knowing or thinking that I am a Christian is by taking my word for it. I hope you can also see some evidence of it in my life.
The church is very important to God. Your participation in a scriptural New Testament Church is very important. It is through the church that God receives glory. If you are in a church that you don't believe is scriptural by all means find one that is.
I believe that a persons commitment to a church is very important. I believe you should give your very best to the service of your church.
One question I ask a lot is, "If your church were made up of people just like you, what kind of church would you have?"
Take heed. The ministry of the church is dependent upon dedicated born again Christians.
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, July 15, 2010
TAKE HEED 5
TAKE HEED IN FOLLOWING GOD'S TEACHING
1 Tim 4:16 Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.
Many times in my ministry I have been witnessing to someone and they would start to tell me what some preacher or what some relative said. It seems that all they knew about the Word of God was what they had heard from someone else.
We are to study God's Word, the Bible, for ourselves. Bible teaching comes from the Bible and not just from what someone might have to say about the Bible. When we read a book about the Bible or listen to someone teaching the Bible we should have our own Bible with us so that we can check what it really says.
The best commentary on the Bible is the Bible itself. Be sure and pray, asking God to teach you as you study. Each scripture taken in context will always back up other scripture. You can only be careful about learning Bible truth from studying the Bible 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.
1 Tim 4:16 Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.
Many times in my ministry I have been witnessing to someone and they would start to tell me what some preacher or what some relative said. It seems that all they knew about the Word of God was what they had heard from someone else.
We are to study God's Word, the Bible, for ourselves. Bible teaching comes from the Bible and not just from what someone might have to say about the Bible. When we read a book about the Bible or listen to someone teaching the Bible we should have our own Bible with us so that we can check what it really says.
The best commentary on the Bible is the Bible itself. Be sure and pray, asking God to teach you as you study. Each scripture taken in context will always back up other scripture. You can only be careful about learning Bible truth from studying the Bible 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.
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
TAKE HEED 4
DO NOT TAKE HEED TO SEDUCING SPIRITS
1 Tim 4:1 Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils;
Some things can seem so harmless and yet can have devastating effects on people. I am amazed at the number of children's books and movies that deal with witchcraft, wizardry, and sorcery. Children are seduced with magical powers. The scriptures speak very plainly about all these things and never are they good. They are always described as evil.
On a less conspicuous level is astrology. Almost every daily paper carries a horoscope column. I am sure by now that some of the readers of this devotional are asking, "What can be the harm in that."
We are taught by the Bible that all good things come from God. It is in Him we are to trust, not in magical powers, not in the alignment of the stars and moon, not in secret incantations and potions. When we allow anything to take our focus off of God and when we place our future in the hands of anyone or anything else it is dangerous to us.
Take heed what spirit you are listening to. God's Holy Spirit will always point you to Jesus. Jesus will always lead you into a closer walk with our Heavenly Father.
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.
1 Tim 4:1 Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils;
Some things can seem so harmless and yet can have devastating effects on people. I am amazed at the number of children's books and movies that deal with witchcraft, wizardry, and sorcery. Children are seduced with magical powers. The scriptures speak very plainly about all these things and never are they good. They are always described as evil.
On a less conspicuous level is astrology. Almost every daily paper carries a horoscope column. I am sure by now that some of the readers of this devotional are asking, "What can be the harm in that."
We are taught by the Bible that all good things come from God. It is in Him we are to trust, not in magical powers, not in the alignment of the stars and moon, not in secret incantations and potions. When we allow anything to take our focus off of God and when we place our future in the hands of anyone or anything else it is dangerous to us.
Take heed what spirit you are listening to. God's Holy Spirit will always point you to Jesus. Jesus will always lead you into a closer walk with our Heavenly Father.
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, July 13, 2010
TAKE HEED 3
TAKE HEED THAT WE DO NOT LET OUR LIBERTY CAUSE OTHERS TO STUMBLE
1 Cor 8:9 But take heed lest by any means this liberty of yours become a stumblingblock to them that are weak.
Many are a little skeptical of those of us who believe in salvation by grace and by the security of the believer. They say that we think that because we asked Jesus to come into our hearts and save us that we have a license to sin.
This could not be farther from the truth. We are saved by grace. We are kept safe by that same grace. That does give us liberty but it does not give us license. While we are aware that we can never achieve a state of perfection as long as our spirit is housed in this mortal body we also know that we should strive to be as perfect as possible.
When we are not afraid of losing our salvation it gives us the liberty to serve our Savior motivated out of love for Him and not out of fear of losing our salvation.
What Paul is telling the new converts in their new found liberty is that they should still obey the laws of God even though their salvation is not dependent upon it. We too must take care that we live our lives in a way to reflect God's holiness so that it doesn't cause others to stumble. Be careful... the world is watching you.
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.
1 Cor 8:9 But take heed lest by any means this liberty of yours become a stumblingblock to them that are weak.
Many are a little skeptical of those of us who believe in salvation by grace and by the security of the believer. They say that we think that because we asked Jesus to come into our hearts and save us that we have a license to sin.
This could not be farther from the truth. We are saved by grace. We are kept safe by that same grace. That does give us liberty but it does not give us license. While we are aware that we can never achieve a state of perfection as long as our spirit is housed in this mortal body we also know that we should strive to be as perfect as possible.
When we are not afraid of losing our salvation it gives us the liberty to serve our Savior motivated out of love for Him and not out of fear of losing our salvation.
What Paul is telling the new converts in their new found liberty is that they should still obey the laws of God even though their salvation is not dependent upon it. We too must take care that we live our lives in a way to reflect God's holiness so that it doesn't cause others to stumble. Be careful... the world is watching you.
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, July 12, 2010
TAKE HEED 2
THAT WE BUILD ON THE PROPER FOUNDATION
1 Cor 3:10 According to the grace of God which is given unto me, as a wise masterbuilder, I have laid the foundation, and another buildeth thereon. But let every man take heed how he buildeth thereupon.
Many people are trying to build a life on their own works and on their own abilities. They are failing miserably. Even among people calling themselves Christians many are building on the wrong foundation.
Mt 16:16 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.
Peter was not the rock that was to be the foundation of the church. It was the truth that Peter had just spoken. Jesus is the Christ. He is the Son of the Living God. He died in our place on that cross and rose again to give us victory. The Foundation of the church is Jesus Christ and His death burial and resurrection.
We do not deserve nor can we deserve salvation. It is the by the grace of God. His unmerited favor and our receiving salvation as a gift is the only way we can be saved. Building on any other foundation than that is a dangerous foundation to depend on.
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.
1 Cor 3:10 According to the grace of God which is given unto me, as a wise masterbuilder, I have laid the foundation, and another buildeth thereon. But let every man take heed how he buildeth thereupon.
Many people are trying to build a life on their own works and on their own abilities. They are failing miserably. Even among people calling themselves Christians many are building on the wrong foundation.
Mt 16:16 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.
Peter was not the rock that was to be the foundation of the church. It was the truth that Peter had just spoken. Jesus is the Christ. He is the Son of the Living God. He died in our place on that cross and rose again to give us victory. The Foundation of the church is Jesus Christ and His death burial and resurrection.
We do not deserve nor can we deserve salvation. It is the by the grace of God. His unmerited favor and our receiving salvation as a gift is the only way we can be saved. Building on any other foundation than that is a dangerous foundation to depend on.
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, July 11, 2010
TAKE HEED 1
Mark 13:31 Heaven and earth shall pass away: but my words shall not pass away. (32) But of that day and that hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels which are in heaven, neither the Son, but the Father. (33) Take ye heed, watch and pray: for ye know not when the time is. (34) For the Son of man is as a man taking a far journey, who left his house, and gave authority to his servants, and to every man his work, and commanded the porter to watch. (35) Watch ye therefore: for ye know not when the master of the house cometh, at even, or at midnight, or at the cockcrowing, or in the morning (36) Lest coming suddenly he find you sleeping. (37) And what I say unto you I say unto all, Watch.
Introduction: I used these verses early in my Internet devotional ministry when I was using using the road signs for object lessons. I am revisiting the subject in more depth because I do believe that Christians in America have been lulled into sleep and are not watching as they should for the Lord's return.
News events seem to coincide with many of the things Jesus said would come to pass in the last days. No man knows the hour or the day and I suspect none know the year or even the decade in which Jesus will return. If you had asked me in 1990 if we would still be here in 2010 I would have not hesitated to tell you that I seriously doubted it. I would have been wrong as many have been wrong before who try to set a particular time line for the Lord's return.
Regardless of the time we are to be watching, we are to be ready and we are to be looking forward to His return. I hope you enjoy the next few devotionals. In the meantime take heed (be aware, be cautious). He is coming and it could be any 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.
Introduction: I used these verses early in my Internet devotional ministry when I was using using the road signs for object lessons. I am revisiting the subject in more depth because I do believe that Christians in America have been lulled into sleep and are not watching as they should for the Lord's return.
News events seem to coincide with many of the things Jesus said would come to pass in the last days. No man knows the hour or the day and I suspect none know the year or even the decade in which Jesus will return. If you had asked me in 1990 if we would still be here in 2010 I would have not hesitated to tell you that I seriously doubted it. I would have been wrong as many have been wrong before who try to set a particular time line for the Lord's return.
Regardless of the time we are to be watching, we are to be ready and we are to be looking forward to His return. I hope you enjoy the next few devotionals. In the meantime take heed (be aware, be cautious). He is coming and it could be any 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, July 10, 2010
THE RISEN LIFE 6
A LIFE OF HEAVENLY AFFECTIONS
Colossians 3:2 Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.
During the recent tornadoes I saw the destruction of many houses. Some people had worked all their lives to build and beautify their earthly dwellings. It was all gone in a matter of minutes leaving nothing but rubble. It makes me hope that they had their affection on another home, one that is indestructible and can never be defiled.
We need to set our hearts on the home that Jesus has gone to prepare for us.
We need to think of our heavenly home and our heavenly family that will be centered around our Heavenly Father.
Many people are walking through life each day and they are looking for many things. As we walk with Jesus we need to be looking for the return of Jesus to come and take us home.
I believe that we certainly need to "look up. Redemption draweth nigh."
I hope you are walking the risen life and following Jesus. I hope you know Him as your Lord and Savior and know that He is preparing an eternal home for you in Heaven. It just took God six days to create this wonderful beautiful place called Earth. Jesus has been working on our Mansion in Heaven for over 2000 years. Isn't that going to be something to behold?
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.
Colossians 3:2 Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.
During the recent tornadoes I saw the destruction of many houses. Some people had worked all their lives to build and beautify their earthly dwellings. It was all gone in a matter of minutes leaving nothing but rubble. It makes me hope that they had their affection on another home, one that is indestructible and can never be defiled.
We need to set our hearts on the home that Jesus has gone to prepare for us.
We need to think of our heavenly home and our heavenly family that will be centered around our Heavenly Father.
Many people are walking through life each day and they are looking for many things. As we walk with Jesus we need to be looking for the return of Jesus to come and take us home.
I believe that we certainly need to "look up. Redemption draweth nigh."
I hope you are walking the risen life and following Jesus. I hope you know Him as your Lord and Savior and know that He is preparing an eternal home for you in Heaven. It just took God six days to create this wonderful beautiful place called Earth. Jesus has been working on our Mansion in Heaven for over 2000 years. Isn't that going to be something to behold?
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, July 9, 2010
THE RISEN LIFE 5
A LIFE OF HEAVENLY AMBITION
Colossians 3:1 If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God.
What is your ambition? What do you hope to someday become? That is kind of like asking a young person what they want to be when they grow up. Sadly many Christians never grow up in their Christian life. They simply do not have any spiritual goals set and they stay babes in Christ all their life.
We should desire a knowledge of God. We shouldn't just want to know about God but we need to have a burning desire in our hearts to know Him. We should want to know Him on a very personal and intimate level that most of us never achieve. Whether you are there or not, it should be your ambition to follow Christ into that relationship with our Heavenly Father.
We should want a sweet personal fellowship with Jesus Christ. One of my favorite songs is "In The Garden". When I sing that song it reminds me that I can have a one on One personal fellowship with Jesus. He is never too far away. He is never too preoccupied or too busy for me. He is always there wanting me to include Him into every aspect of my life.
We should want a partnership in ministry with Jesus and His church. We should want to be a part of something that is so special to Jesus it is referred to as "His Bride". Now that is special. When people tell me they love Jesus but they don't have much use for the church that is like them telling me that they like me enough but they just don't care for my wife. I can promise you, that statement would not please me at all.
Examine your ambitions. What do you hope to become and where do you want to be spiritually?
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.
Colossians 3:1 If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God.
What is your ambition? What do you hope to someday become? That is kind of like asking a young person what they want to be when they grow up. Sadly many Christians never grow up in their Christian life. They simply do not have any spiritual goals set and they stay babes in Christ all their life.
We should desire a knowledge of God. We shouldn't just want to know about God but we need to have a burning desire in our hearts to know Him. We should want to know Him on a very personal and intimate level that most of us never achieve. Whether you are there or not, it should be your ambition to follow Christ into that relationship with our Heavenly Father.
We should want a sweet personal fellowship with Jesus Christ. One of my favorite songs is "In The Garden". When I sing that song it reminds me that I can have a one on One personal fellowship with Jesus. He is never too far away. He is never too preoccupied or too busy for me. He is always there wanting me to include Him into every aspect of my life.
We should want a partnership in ministry with Jesus and His church. We should want to be a part of something that is so special to Jesus it is referred to as "His Bride". Now that is special. When people tell me they love Jesus but they don't have much use for the church that is like them telling me that they like me enough but they just don't care for my wife. I can promise you, that statement would not please me at all.
Examine your ambitions. What do you hope to become and where do you want to be spiritually?
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, July 8, 2010
THE RISEN LIFE 4
A LIFE OF DEVOTION TO A NEW MASTER
2 Corinthians 5:15 And that he died for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto him which died for them, and rose again.
Most of us would never consider bowing down and serving another person but too often we put ourselves on the throne in our life instead of putting Jesus there. Jesus deserves the position of Lordship in your life. You belong to Him. You are bought and paid for with His suffering for your sins and paying your sin debt to God. He is the Savior of our souls.
We should also let Him be the Master of our minds. Let your thoughts be centered around Jesus. Not too long ago wrist bracelets with WWJD were very popular. What that stood for was What Would Jesus Do? I have seen people wearing them that made me want to comment, "Well, He wouldn't act like you are acting right now?" or "I am sure he would wear that outfit." It is a good question to ask ourselves to help us control our behavior. What would Jesus do if He were in my situation right now. If you are in a situation that Jesus would never get Himself into then you know you should get out of it.
We should let Him be the Lord of our Actions. I am reminded of a story of a small boy selling apples on the street of a big city. It was Sunday and he was in front of a large church and as the people came out someone bumped his cart of apples and they began to roll everywhere. He scrambled to pick them up as the crowd just walked around him and ignored his plight. Suddenly a well dressed lady stopped and helped him pick up the apples. She then payed him for all the apples that were damaged. He asked her, "What is that big building all those people came out of anyway?"
She replied, "That is God's house." The little boy looked at her and smiled, "Are you God's wife?"
We should at least conduct ourselves in a way that people will know that we are somehow related to God.
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.
2 Corinthians 5:15 And that he died for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto him which died for them, and rose again.
Most of us would never consider bowing down and serving another person but too often we put ourselves on the throne in our life instead of putting Jesus there. Jesus deserves the position of Lordship in your life. You belong to Him. You are bought and paid for with His suffering for your sins and paying your sin debt to God. He is the Savior of our souls.
We should also let Him be the Master of our minds. Let your thoughts be centered around Jesus. Not too long ago wrist bracelets with WWJD were very popular. What that stood for was What Would Jesus Do? I have seen people wearing them that made me want to comment, "Well, He wouldn't act like you are acting right now?" or "I am sure he would wear that outfit." It is a good question to ask ourselves to help us control our behavior. What would Jesus do if He were in my situation right now. If you are in a situation that Jesus would never get Himself into then you know you should get out of it.
We should let Him be the Lord of our Actions. I am reminded of a story of a small boy selling apples on the street of a big city. It was Sunday and he was in front of a large church and as the people came out someone bumped his cart of apples and they began to roll everywhere. He scrambled to pick them up as the crowd just walked around him and ignored his plight. Suddenly a well dressed lady stopped and helped him pick up the apples. She then payed him for all the apples that were damaged. He asked her, "What is that big building all those people came out of anyway?"
She replied, "That is God's house." The little boy looked at her and smiled, "Are you God's wife?"
We should at least conduct ourselves in a way that people will know that we are somehow related to God.
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, July 7, 2010
THE RISEN LIFE 3
A LIFE OF VICTORY
2 Corinthians 4:6-10 For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. {7} But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us. {8} We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; {9} Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed; Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body.
If we were truly to start living the victorious Christian life that God would have us to live the world would look upon us with awe. They would be saying, "I want what they have!"
We might be troubled, but we shouldn't be distressed. Too many people want to be drama queens (or kings) when the least trouble enters their life. We should not let troubles overwhelm us and we certainly should not overwhelm those around us with our troubles. You and Jesus can handle anything this world throws at you.
We might be perplexed (puzzled) but we should never be desperate. Through prayer and the study of God's Word, the Bible, we have answers to everything situation. Usually what we are going to learn is "It's not about us." It is about God and His Son Jesus Christ. If we are more focused on Him we will be much less focused on our own situations.
We might be persecuted but God will never forsake us. No matter how you might be attacked for your faith, God will never leave you to face it alone. He will stand with you always and you and God are always a majority.
We might be cast down but no one can destroy us because we are always in the loving arms of our Lord and Savior Jesus. He will carry us to our eternal home and keep us forever.
There is great victory in Jesus if we will just claim 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.
2 Corinthians 4:6-10 For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. {7} But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us. {8} We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; {9} Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed; Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body.
If we were truly to start living the victorious Christian life that God would have us to live the world would look upon us with awe. They would be saying, "I want what they have!"
We might be troubled, but we shouldn't be distressed. Too many people want to be drama queens (or kings) when the least trouble enters their life. We should not let troubles overwhelm us and we certainly should not overwhelm those around us with our troubles. You and Jesus can handle anything this world throws at you.
We might be perplexed (puzzled) but we should never be desperate. Through prayer and the study of God's Word, the Bible, we have answers to everything situation. Usually what we are going to learn is "It's not about us." It is about God and His Son Jesus Christ. If we are more focused on Him we will be much less focused on our own situations.
We might be persecuted but God will never forsake us. No matter how you might be attacked for your faith, God will never leave you to face it alone. He will stand with you always and you and God are always a majority.
We might be cast down but no one can destroy us because we are always in the loving arms of our Lord and Savior Jesus. He will carry us to our eternal home and keep us forever.
There is great victory in Jesus if we will just claim 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.
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
THE RISEN LIFE 2
A LIFE OF POWER
Romans 8:11 But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you.
When we live the risen life we are to live in Christ it is a life of Power. We must learn to live as if we are immortal, because in Christ we are. As we walk with God we can be assured that we will live until His purpose is fulfilled in our life.
I have always looked at the bravery of Joshua and Caleb as they drove out the inhabitants of Canaan. Of course they were brave, they could not die. God had promised them that they would receive their inheritance after their enemies had been driven out. The same is true of us. We are immortal as long as we are fulfilling God's purpose. It is up to God to determine when we shall die and even then that will not really be death, just a graduation to a better home with Him.
When we walk the risen life it should give us power over temptation. The more we learn about God's rewards the more we know that sin is harmful to us and we are better able to resist the lure of the world.
When we walk with Jesus we have power over sin and we will not let it get the best of us. We should start living like victors and not like victims. The victory is in Jesus 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.
Monday, July 5, 2010
THE RISEN LIFE 1
Eph 2:1-6 And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins: (2) Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience: (3) Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others. (4) But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, (5) Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) (6) And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus:
INTRODUCTION:
Many today have the idea that Christianity is a dead or dying way of life and it might be because they are observing the actions of many professing Christians. Christianity is not merely a religion. It is a way of life. It is life in Jesus Christ.
Jesus did not stay hanging on the cross. He was placed in a tomb and he rose again to overcome death, hell and the grave. When we accept Him as our Lord and Savior we too are made alive in him.
I suppose many are just sleeping and maybe sleep walking in their daily life with Jesus. We are not to be like the walking dead but we are to be filled with life.
We are to sit in Heavenly places and experience the joy of a sweet relationship with God. It is sad that many are missing that joy and that fellowship because they are conforming to the ways of the world instead of to the ways of Jesus, who has made us very much alive in Him.
I hope the next few devotionals will give you some thought and inspiration to try to sit in Heavenly places with 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.
INTRODUCTION:
Many today have the idea that Christianity is a dead or dying way of life and it might be because they are observing the actions of many professing Christians. Christianity is not merely a religion. It is a way of life. It is life in Jesus Christ.
Jesus did not stay hanging on the cross. He was placed in a tomb and he rose again to overcome death, hell and the grave. When we accept Him as our Lord and Savior we too are made alive in him.
I suppose many are just sleeping and maybe sleep walking in their daily life with Jesus. We are not to be like the walking dead but we are to be filled with life.
We are to sit in Heavenly places and experience the joy of a sweet relationship with God. It is sad that many are missing that joy and that fellowship because they are conforming to the ways of the world instead of to the ways of Jesus, who has made us very much alive in Him.
I hope the next few devotionals will give you some thought and inspiration to try to sit in Heavenly places with 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, July 4, 2010
BE AN UP CHRISTIAN 7
SING UP AND SPEAK UP
Ephesians 5:18-19 And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit; 19 Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord;
Worship service is not a spectator activity. To get the most out of it you have to participate. You can not attend, listen to the sermon, the singing and the praying and never participate and still worship the Lord.
Does this mean you have to sing louder than anyone else or pray out loud or amen the preacher every time he makes a point? No. It means that something should be going on inside your heart that causes you to be filled with the love of God to the point of overflowing.
Many people have been going to church for years and yet have never learned to worship. It is not about the singing. It is not about the praying. It isn't even about he preaching. It is about a the Creator of all things who loved you enough to send His Son to die for you that you might have eternal life.
As a family were leaving the church the man said, "The Sermon wasn't all that informative today." His wife commented, "Sunday school was boring and the singing was off key today." Their little boy in the back seat had a smile on his face and was still humming one of the hymns, "I though it was all great for just a quarter." Which one of these do you think came closer to actually worshiping?
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, July 3, 2010
BE AN UP CHRISTIAN 6
FILL UP
Ephesians 3:19 And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God.
During an object lesson in a classroom one time the teacher asked the students to tell him or come up and show him the best way to get all the air out of a container. Some suggested a vacuum. Others thought of different ways to try to get the air out. Finally one student walked up and picked up a pitcher of water from the teachers desk and filled the glass to the brim with the water. The teacher applauded him and gave him an A for the class. The best way to get something out of a container is to fill it with something else.
We are to be filled with love for the Lord Jesus. When we fill our life with God's Spirit it doesn't leave much room for the world. We will squeeze out all the old sinful habits and all the old worldly ways if we are full of the love of Christ.
We as Christians need to fill up on God's Word until we really get to know Him. I promise you we can't get to know Him without learning to love Him.
Are you ready for a fill up?
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.
Ephesians 3:19 And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God.
During an object lesson in a classroom one time the teacher asked the students to tell him or come up and show him the best way to get all the air out of a container. Some suggested a vacuum. Others thought of different ways to try to get the air out. Finally one student walked up and picked up a pitcher of water from the teachers desk and filled the glass to the brim with the water. The teacher applauded him and gave him an A for the class. The best way to get something out of a container is to fill it with something else.
We are to be filled with love for the Lord Jesus. When we fill our life with God's Spirit it doesn't leave much room for the world. We will squeeze out all the old sinful habits and all the old worldly ways if we are full of the love of Christ.
We as Christians need to fill up on God's Word until we really get to know Him. I promise you we can't get to know Him without learning to love Him.
Are you ready for a fill up?
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, July 2, 2010
BE AN UP CHRISTIAN 5
GIVE UP
Ephesians 4:31-32 Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice: (32) And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.
Most of us are aware that when we begging to walk with the Lord there are some things in our lives we need to give up. We know that we have to forsake some sins and drop some habits and change the way we think about some of the pleasures the world has to offer.
I think where we have the biggest problems are in letting go or giving up some things that have been done to us. Things that have caused us anger, things that make us bitter. A grudge is a hard thing to let go of. I have known some people to hold a grudge for years and actually allow their whole life and motivation to center on that grudge. To be honest, that is not a pretty sight or a pleasant experience. Sometimes we just have to let go, especially when we realize that it is hurting us much more than it hurts the one we have a grudge against.
We have to let go of some hurts and learn to forgive and forget. It is not easy but it will surely help us with the other "ups" in our life.
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.
Ephesians 4:31-32 Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice: (32) And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.
Most of us are aware that when we begging to walk with the Lord there are some things in our lives we need to give up. We know that we have to forsake some sins and drop some habits and change the way we think about some of the pleasures the world has to offer.
I think where we have the biggest problems are in letting go or giving up some things that have been done to us. Things that have caused us anger, things that make us bitter. A grudge is a hard thing to let go of. I have known some people to hold a grudge for years and actually allow their whole life and motivation to center on that grudge. To be honest, that is not a pretty sight or a pleasant experience. Sometimes we just have to let go, especially when we realize that it is hurting us much more than it hurts the one we have a grudge against.
We have to let go of some hurts and learn to forgive and forget. It is not easy but it will surely help us with the other "ups" in our life.
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, July 1, 2010
BE AN UP CHRISTIAN 4
GROW UP
Ephesians 4:14 That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;
Children are inquisitive. They ask a lot of questions and whether you believe it or not they listen and believe most of your answers. The answers don't have to be right. They trust you to tell them the truth. I know many of you are thinking that you would never say something to them that wasn't true.
When you were young many of you probably believed in the tooth fairy, Santa Clause and many other myths. You learned the truth about things as you matured.
There are many young Christians that believe many myths and false doctrines concerning the Bible. As they mature they should be reading the Bible for themselves and through prayer allowing the Holy Spirit to guide them to the truth.
To believe everything someone else says is immature. Children do that and look at some of the things they believe are real. As you grow up in the Lord you will learn to "search the scriptures" for the truth. Really, there comes a time to grow up spiritually.
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.
Ephesians 4:14 That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;
Children are inquisitive. They ask a lot of questions and whether you believe it or not they listen and believe most of your answers. The answers don't have to be right. They trust you to tell them the truth. I know many of you are thinking that you would never say something to them that wasn't true.
When you were young many of you probably believed in the tooth fairy, Santa Clause and many other myths. You learned the truth about things as you matured.
There are many young Christians that believe many myths and false doctrines concerning the Bible. As they mature they should be reading the Bible for themselves and through prayer allowing the Holy Spirit to guide them to the truth.
To believe everything someone else says is immature. Children do that and look at some of the things they believe are real. As you grow up in the Lord you will learn to "search the scriptures" for the truth. Really, there comes a time to grow up spiritually.
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.
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