Day 304 - The Most Important Qualification of Discipleship

Today's Reading: Ezek. 1 and John 21

At the height of Peter's fishing career, when he had just got the largest load of fish ever, Jesus puts the testing question on the table.

"Simon Peter, lovest thou me more than these?"

In fact three times Jesus asked this question:

The Bible says: "So when they had dined, Jesus saith to Simon Peter, Simon, son of Jonas, loves thou me more than these? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my lambs. He saith to him again the second time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my sheep. He saith unto him the third time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? Peter was grieved because he said unto him the third time, Lovest thou me? And he said unto him, Lord, thou knowest all things; thou knowest that I love thee. Jesus saith unto him, Feed my sheep." (John 21:15-17)

Why did Jesus ask three times when Peter kept responding yes each time?

Oh course, we could delve into the types of love Peter responded in versus what Christ was asking: Christ was asking Peter do you "agapaō love," me -- a deep earnest love, where as Peter responded, "Yes Lord, I phileō love you" which is more of a friend fondness love." Three times Jesus asked, and three times Peter answered in phileō, and Christ accepted that phileō love.

But the main thing I am wanting to focus on here today is the overall question... for the first and most important qualification for true discipleship is love... DO WE LOVE JESUS MORE?

Ellen White writes the following:

"The question that Christ had put to Peter was significant. He mentioned only one condition of discipleship and service. “Lovest thou Me?” He said. This is the essential qualification. Though Peter might possess every other, yet without the love of Christ he could not be a faithful shepherd over the Lord’s flock. Knowledge, benevolence, eloquence, gratitude, and zeal are all aids in the good work; but without the love of Jesus in the heart, the work of the Christian minister is a failure." (Desire of Ages, p. 815)

So Jesus is asking all of us today, "Lovest though me more than all of these? More than all your fish, more than all you possess, more than every other person? Lovest thou me?"

Tomorrow's Reading: Ezekiel 2-3 and Ps. 119:97-120

Day 303 - His Mercies are New Every Morning!

Today's Reading: Lam. 3-5 and John 20

The world may be falling apart around us, the church may appear to be falling apart around us, and life may not look that promising... That's how Jeremiah felt and that's why the book of Lamentations was written. But there's still hope!

Jeremiah found that hope, and we can too...

"THIS I recall to mind, therefore have I hope," he writes. "It is of the LORD'S mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness. The LORD is my portion, saith my soul; therefore will I hope in him. The LORD is good unto them that wait for him, to the soul that seeketh him. It is good that a man should both hope and quietly wait for the salvation of the LORD." (Lam 3:21-26)

What beautiful promises! I love the corresponding thoughts from Inspiration:

When called to drink of the cup of tribulation and sorrow, and when tempted in his misery to say, “My strength and my hope is perished from the Lord,” he recalled the providences of God in his behalf and triumphantly exclaimed, “It is of the Lord’s mercies that we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is Thy faithfulness. The Lord is my portion, saith my soul; therefore will I hope in Him. The Lord is good unto them that wait for Him, to the soul that seeketh Him. It is good that a man should both hope and quietly wait for the salvation of the Lord.” Lamentations 3:18, 22-26. (Prophets and Kings, p. 421)

In another place, Ellen White writes:

None who receive God’s word are exempt from difficulty and trial; but when affliction comes, the true Christian does not become restless, distrustful, or despondent. Though we can not see the definite outcome of affairs, or discern the purpose of God’s providences, we are not to cast away our confidence. Remembering the tender mercies of the Lord, we should cast our care upon Him, and with patience wait for His salvation. Through conflict the spiritual life is strengthened. Trials well borne will develop steadfastness of character and precious spiritual graces. The perfect fruit of faith, meekness, and love often matures best amid storm clouds and darkness. (Christ Object Lessons, p. 61)

So thankful that His mercies are new every morning, and in the struggles and lamentations, our faith can grow as we hold on to Him.

Tomorrow's Reading: Ezek. 1 and John 21

Day 302 - Jesus Last Thoughts of His Mother

Today's Reading: Lamentations 1-2 and John 19

It's always so touching to read how, on the cross, Jesus thought of the care of His mother. Here, He has the world on His shoulders, He's in unimaginable pain... and so many things were overwhelming His mind, especially the darkness that separated Him from His heavenly Father... and yet, He remembered His mother.

Ellen White writes:

"As the eyes of Jesus wandered over the multitude about Him, one figure arrested His attention. At the foot of the cross stood His mother, supported by the disciple John. She could not endure to remain away from her Son; and John, knowing that the end was near, had brought her again to the cross. In His dying hour, Christ remembered His mother. Looking into her grief-stricken face and then upon John, He said to her, “Woman, behold thy son!” then to John, “Behold thy mother!” John understood Christ’s words, and accepted the trust. He at once took Mary to his home, and from that hour cared for her tenderly. O pitiful, loving Saviour; amid all His physical pain and mental anguish, He had a thoughtful care for His mother! He had no money with which to provide for her comfort; but He was enshrined in the heart of John, and He gave His mother to him as a precious legacy. Thus He provided for her that which she most needed,—the tender sympathy of one who loved her because she loved Jesus. And in receiving her as a sacred trust, John was receiving a great blessing. She was a constant reminder of his beloved Master.  

The perfect example of Christ’s filial love shines forth with undimmed luster from the mist of ages. For nearly thirty years Jesus by His daily toil had helped bear the burdens of the home. And now, even in His last agony, He remembers to provide for His sorrowing, widowed mother. The same spirit will be seenin every disciple of our Lord. Those who follow Christ will feel that it is a part of their religion to respect and provide for their parents. From the heart where His love is cherished, father and mother will never fail of receiving thoughtful care and tender sympathy." (Desire of Ages, p. 752)

Let's not forget our parents! They deserve our love and honor, even if they have not been honoring themselves. If they are not Christians, perhaps by your love, you can win them to Christ.


Tomorrow's Reading: Lam. 3-5 and John 20

Day 301 - In Faithfulness I have been Afflicted

Today's Reading: Jer. 51-52 and Ps. 119:73-96

It's not fun to go through trials and difficulties, but have you realized that it is in these trials and difficulties that we often grow closest to Christ? I've seen this true over and over in my life, such that I can say along with David, "It is good for me that I've been afflicted that I might learn thy statutes." Ps. 119:71.

In today's reading, I see this again in verse 75: "Thou in FAITHFULNESS hast afflicted me."

You know, being chastened, going through testing times is not easy... but if we recognize that it's only those who God loves that He chasten, we will embrace these painful times and do our best to grow in them.

I'm reminded of a passage from the book Ministry of Healing:

The fact that we are called upon to endure trial shows that the Lord Jesus sees in us something precious which He desires to develop. If He saw in us nothing whereby He might glorify His name, He would not spend time in refining us. Hedoes not cast worthless stones into His furnace. It is valuable ore that He refines. The blacksmith puts the iron and steel into the fire that he may know what manner of metal they are. The Lord allows His chosen ones to be placed in the furnace of affliction to prove what temper they are of and whether they can be fashioned for His work. 

The potter takes the clay and molds it according to his will. He kneads it and works it. He tears it apart and presses it together. He wets it and then dries it. He lets it lie for a while without touching it. When it is perfectly pliable, he continues the work of making of it a vessel. He forms it into shape and on the wheel trims and polishes it. He dries it in the sun and bakes it in the oven. Thus it becomes a vessel fit for use. So the great Master Worker desires to mold and fashion us. And as the clay is in the hands of the potter, so are we to be in His hands. We are not to try to do the work of the potter. Our part is to yield ourselves to be molded by the Master Worker.  

“Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: but rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that, when His glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.” 1 Peter 4:12, 13.  

In the full light of day, and in hearing of the music of other voices, the caged bird will not sing the song that his master seeks to teach him. He learns a snatch of this, a trill of that, but never a separate and entire melody. But the master covers the cage, and places it where the bird will listen to the one song he is to sing. In the dark, he tries and tries again to sing that song until it is learned, and he breaks forth in perfect melody. Then the bird is brought forth, and ever after he can sing that song in the light. Thus God deals with His children. He has a song to teach us, and when we have learned it amid the shadows of affliction we can sing it ever afterward. (Ministry of Healing, p. 471-472)

So let's pray for strength as we embrace the fires, and pray to grow!

Tomorrow's Reading: Lamentations 1-2 and John 19

Day 300 - What is Truth?

Today's Reading: Jer. 49-50 and John 18

Can't believe we've reached day 300 of our reading through the Bible in a year journey! This experience following the Longing for God reading plan has been such a blessing and reminded me of the broad overview of Scripture that I haven't seen for awhile. So good. And now only 60+ days to go. I'm looking forward to having time to focus in on more detailed studies of certain chapters and books in the Bible after I finish this reading program.

Today as I was reading in John 18, we find Jesus being taken to Pilate for judgment. Pilate questions Jesus, looking for a loophole to set Him free. And it also seems that Pilate is curious for understanding and knowledge. "What is truth?" he asks Jesus. But the problem is, even if Jesus tells him the truth, Pilate is not willing to follow it at the sacrifice to himself.

Ellen White writes:

"Pilate longed to deliver Jesus. But he saw that he could not do this, and yet retain his own position and honor. Rather than lose his worldly power, he chose to sacrifice an innocent life. How many, to escape loss or suffering, in like manner sacrifice principle. Conscience and duty point one way, and self-interest points another. The current sets strongly in the wrong direction, and he who compromises with evil is swept away into the thick darkness of guilt. 

Pilate yielded to the demands of the mob. Rather than risk losing his position, he delivered Jesus up to be crucified. But in spite of his precautions, the very thing he dreaded afterward came upon him. His honors were stripped from him, he was cast down from his high office, and, stung by remorse and wounded pride, not long after the crucifixion he ended his own life. So all who compromise with sin will gain only sorrow and ruin. “There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.” Proverbs 14:12. (Desire of Ages, p. 738)

So how do we respond today when confronted with TRUTH! Will we follow, will we obey, or will we seek the safe path to protect our reputation or something else of perceived importance?

My prayer is that I may know TRUTH, the truth that alone comes through a knowledge of God's Word, and as He reveals Himself to me afresh, I will follow.... no matter the pain or sacrifice.

Tomorrow's Reading: Jer. 51-52 and Ps. 119:73-96

Day 299 - The Key to Unity!

Today's Reading: Jer. 47-48 and John 17

In today's reading of John 17, we are reminded of Jesus great desire for His people.... Here's a portion of His prayer.

"I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil. They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth. As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth. Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one. I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me." (John 17:15-23)

So how do we see the fulfillment of Christ's prayer? I think there's only one true answer, and that is union with Christ. Let me share one of my favorite quotes from Adventist Home:

"The cause of division and discord in families and in the church is separation from Christ. To come near to Christ is to come near to one another. The secret of true unity in the church and in the family is not diplomacy, not management, not a superhuman effort to overcome difficulties—though there will be much of this to do—but union with Christ. Picture a large circle, from the edge of which are many lines all running to the center. The nearer these lines approach the center, the nearer they are to one another.  Thus it is in the Christian life. The closer we come to Christ, the nearer we shall be to one another. God is glorified as His people unite in harmonious action." (p. 179)

Let's focus on drawing close to Christ, and as we do, all our other issues will work themselves out...

Tomorrow's Reading: Jer. 49-50 and John 18

Day 298 - Allow God to be your Promotion Manager!

Today’s Reading: Jer. 44-46 and Ps. 119:49-72

I love this sober appeal in Jeremiah 45:5 – “Seekest thou great things for thyself? Seek them not.”

It’s the natural self-centered tendency to try to promote yourself, to push yourself forward, to get attention and approval. We all like to be noticed! I like to be noticed. It feels good. But I love Ellen Whites comments about this passage. This is what she writes:

“Let those who feel that their work is not appreciated, and who crave a position of greater responsibility, consider that “promotion cometh neither from the east, nor from the west, nor from the south. But God is the Judge: He putteth down one, and setteth up another.” Psalm 75:6, 7. Every man has his place in the eternal plan of heaven. Whether we fill that place depends upon our own faithfulness in co-operating with God. 

We need to beware of self-pity. Never indulge the feeling that you are not esteemed as you should be, that your efforts are not appreciated, that your work is too difficult. Let the memory of what Christ has endured for us silence every murmuring thought. We are treated better than was our Lord. “Seekest thou great things for thyself? seek them not.” Jeremiah 45:5. The Lord has no place in His work for those who have a greater desire to win the crown than to bear the cross. He wants men who are more intent upon doing their duty than upon receiving their reward—men who are more solicitous for principle than for promotion. 

Those who are humble, and who do their work as unto God, may not make so great a show as do those who are full of bustle and self-importance; but their work counts for more. Often those who make a great parade call attention to self, interposing between the people and God, and their work proves a failure. “Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding. Exalt her, and she shall promote thee: she shall bring thee to honor, when thou dost embrace her.” Proverbs 4:7, 8. (Ministry of Healing, p. 476)

Let’s just be faithful in the work God gives us, not trying to call attention to self, but seeking only to glorify God. Let’s allow HIM to be our promotions manager.

Tomorrow’s Reading: Jer. 47-48 and John 17

Day 297 - If the Heart is in It!

Today's Reading: Jer. 42-43 and John 16

I love the encouragement to pray given in John 16. "Verily verily (that means He really means it), I say unto you. Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in my name, He will give it you. Hitherto (up to this point) have ye asked nothing in my name: ask and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full." (John 16:23-24)

I'm thankful that we don't have to come with wealthy offerings, or with the prestige of the nations to be heard of God. All He asks is for humility of heart, and an earnest desire for help. I love the following statement from Desire of Ages.

"The prayer of the humble suppliant He presents as His own desire in that soul’s behalf. Every sincere prayer is heard in heaven. It may not be fluently expressed; but if the heart is in it, it will ascend to the sanctuary where Jesus ministers, and He will present it to the Father without one awkward, stammering word, beautiful and fragrant with the incense of His own perfection." (667)

Is your heart IN IT when you pray?

Tomorrow's Reading: Jer. 44-46 and Ps. 119:49-72

Day 296 - Learning to Abide

Today's Bible Reading: Jer. 40-41 and John 15

I love John 15 and the passages that talk about abiding. How can we expect to grow and bear fruit for Christ except that we learn to abide and rest in Him?

What does abiding mean, in a practical sense? This is what we are told:

"Abiding in Christ means a constant receiving of His Spirit, a life of unreserved surrender to His service. The channel of communication must be open continually between man and his God. As the vine branch constantly draws the sap from the living vine, so are we to cling to Jesus, and receive from Him by faith the strength and perfection of His own character. 

The root sends its nourishment through the branch to the outermost twig. So Christ communicates the current of spiritual strength to every believer. So long as the soul is united to Christ, there is no danger that it will wither or decay.  

The life of the vine will be manifest in fragrant fruit on the branches. “He that abideth in Me,” said Jesus, “and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without Me ye can do nothing.” When we live by faith on the Son of God, the fruits of the Spirit will be seen in our lives; not one will be missing. 

“My Father is the husbandman. Every branch in Me that beareth not fruit He taketh away.” While the graft is outwardly united with the vine, there may be no vital connection. Then there will be no growth or fruitfulness. So there may be an apparent connection with Christ without a real union with Him by faith. A profession of religion places men in the church, but the character and conduct show whether they are in connection with Christ." (Desire of Ages, p. 676)

Author V.R. Edmond, in the book They Found the Secret, writes the following:

"So how does a branch bear fruit? Is it by struggle and effort to reach sunshine, air and water? Or is it by simply abiding in the vine? The lesson is simple, and Christ spoke of this often in Scripture. We do not produce good fruit except by abiding in Him, the living vine (John 15:4). Just as the branch has undisturbed union with the vine and as a result, spontaneously blossoms and produces fruit, so we as Christians do not need to struggle to obtain that which has been freely given. As we look to Christ, as we abide in Him, and allow Him through His Spirit to abide in us, we will yield fruit unto righteousness. We can do nothing else." (They Found the Secret, V.R. Edmond, p. 23)

Let's seek to abide in Christ today! He is our only safety!

Tomorrow's Reading: Jer. 42-43 and John 16

Day 295 - Believe His Prophets

Today's Reading: Jer. 38-39 and John 14

I find it interesting the persecution that the prophet Jeremiah went through... yet if he had been heeded, how different things might have gone for Israel.

Even the King, Zedekiah took counsel of the prophet, but he was too weak and afraid of public opinion to follow that counsel. And here's what Ellen White writes about this:

Choices and Consequences:

With tears Jeremiah entreated Zedekiah to save himself and his people. With anguish of spirit he assured him that unless he should heed the counsel of God, he could not escape with his life, and all his possessions would fall to the Babylonians. But the king had started on the wrong course, and he would not retrace his steps. He decided to follow the counsel of the false prophets, and of the men whom he really despised, and who ridiculed his weakness in yielding so readily to their wishes. He sacrificed the noble freedom of his manhood and became a cringing slave to public opinion. With no fixed purpose to do evil, he was also without resolution to stand boldly for the right. Convicted though he was of the value of the counsel given by Jeremiah, he had not the moral stamina to obey; and as a consequence he advanced steadily in the wrong direction. 

The king was even too weak to be willing that his courtiers and people should know that he had held a conference with Jeremiah, so fully had the fear of man taken possession of his soul. If Zedekiah had stood up bravely and declared that he believed the words of the prophet, already half fulfilled, what desolation might have been averted! He should have said, I will obey the Lord, and save the city from utter ruin. I dare not disregard the commands of God because of the fear or favor of man. I love the truth, I hate sin, and I will follow the counsel of the Mighty One of Israel. 

Then the people would have respected his courageous spirit, and those who were wavering between faith and unbelief would have taken a firm stand for the right. The very fearlessness and justice of this course would have inspired his subjects with admiration and loyalty. He would have had ample support, and Judah would have been spared the untold woe of carnage and famine and fire. (From Prophets and Kings, p. 457-458)

 What lesson can we learn from today's story? I think 2 Chronicles 20:20 sums things up for us: "Believe in the LORD your God, so shall ye be established; believe his prophets, so shall ye prosper."

It's because we have lost our belief in "His Prophets" that I think we are in the mess that we are in today as a church... We have lost our belief... and we criticize the prophets.

Tomorrow's Reading: Jer. 40-41 and John 15

Day 294 - Thy Word Strengthens Me

Today's Reading: Jer. 36-37 and Ps. 119:25-48

How I love God's Word... and I love all the references to what the Word does in Psalm 119.

Here's just a few references from today's reading!

The Word quickens us! vs 25
The Word strengthens us! vs 28
The Word teaches us! vs 32
The Word establishes us! vs. 38
The Word gives answers for those that reproach me! vs 42
The Word is my truth! vs 43
The Word gives me strength to speak before kings without shame! vs. 46
The Word is my delight! vs. 47

Let's keep eating deeply of God's Word!

Tomorrow's Reading: Jer. 38-39 and John 14

Day 293 - Jesus washes Feet

Today's Reading: Jer. 34-35 and John 13

Today in John 13 we read the story of Jesus washing the disciples feet. What King, what ruler, what leader do we typically see washing the dirty feet of his servants...?? I think Jesus, as Lord of all creation, sets the first record for such humble service!

What a rebuke to the pride of the disciples and what a lesson for us today.

After He had sat down for washing the feet of His motley group, He asked the disciples a question: "Know ye what I have done to you? Ye call me Master and Lord: and ye say well; for so I am. If I then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet; ye also ought to wash one another's feet. For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you." (John 13:12-15)

Ellen White writes the following:

"The disciples made no move toward serving one another. Jesus waited for a time to see what they would do. Then He, the divine Teacher, rose from the table. Laying aside the outer garment that would have impeded His movements, He took a towel, and girded Himself. With surprised interest the disciples looked on, and in silence waited to see what was to follow. “After that He poureth water into a basin, and began to wash the disciples’ feet, and to wipe them with the towel wherewith He was girded.” This action opened the eyes of the disciples. Bitter shame and humiliation filled their hearts. They understood the unspoken rebuke, and saw themselves in altogether a new light. 

So Christ expressed His love for His disciples. Their selfish spirit filled Him with sorrow, but He entered into no controversy with them regarding their difficulty. Instead He gave them an example they would never forget. His love for them was not easily disturbed or quenched. He knew that the Father had given all things into His hands, and that He came from God, and went to God. He had a full consciousness of His divinity; but He had laid aside His royal crown and kingly robes, and had taken the form of a servant. One of the last acts of His life on earth was to gird Himself as a servant, and perform a servant’s part." (Desire of Ages, 644)

What lessons we can learn from Christ and His humility of service... and you know what is so amazing. Jesus still washes stinky dirty feet today. When we confess our sins and ask His forgiveness, He takes our feet, that have been swift to run into sin, swift to follow the path of evil, and swift to hurt His name... they are bleeding and raw from our battles with self and with the world, yet He gently takes them and washes them and says, "Here, you are mine! I still love you! You are clean again."

What a Master... the Master who became a servant for me!

Tomorrow's Reading: Jer. 36-37 and Ps. 119:25-48

Day 292 - A Purchase to Inspire Hope!

Today's Reading: Jer. 32-33 and John 12

In Jeremiah 32, we read about how Jeremiah purchased a field. This field was in a land under the control of the Babylonians, and appeared to be a foolish purchase, but the Lord instructed Jeremiah to do this to instill hope in Israel.

Here's how Ellen White brings this story to light:

"In the closing years of Judah’s apostasy the exhortations of the prophets were seemingly of but little avail; and as the armies of the Chaldeans came for the third and last time to besiege Jerusalem, hope fled from every heart. Jeremiah predicted utter ruin; and it was because of his insistence on surrender that he had finally been thrown into prison. But God left not to hopeless despair the faithful remnant who were still in the city. Even while Jeremiah was kept under close surveillance by those who scorned his messages, there came to him fresh revelations concerning Heaven’s willingness to forgive and to save, which have been an unfailing source of comfort to the church of God from that day to this.  

Laying fast hold on the promises of God, Jeremiah, by means of an acted parable, illustrated before the inhabitants of the fated city his strong faith in the ultimate fulfillment of God’s purpose for His people. In the presence of witnesses, and with careful observance of all necessary legal forms, he purchased for seventeen shekels of silver an ancestral field situated in the neighboring village of Anathoth. 

From every human point of view this purchase of land in territory already under the control of the Babylonians, appeared to be an act of folly. The prophet himself had been foretelling the destruction of Jerusalem, the desolation of Judea, and the utter ruin of the kingdom. He had been prophesying a long period of captivity in faraway Babylon. Already advanced in years, he could never hope to receive personal benefit from the purchase he had made. However, his study of the prophecies that were recorded in the Scriptures had created within his heart a firm conviction that the Lord purposed to restore to the children of the captivity their ancient possession of the Land of Promise. With the eye of faith Jeremiah saw the exiles returning at the end of the years of affliction and reoccupying the land of their fathers. Through the purchase of the Anathoth estate he would do what he could to inspire others with the hope that brought so much comfort to his own heart." (Prophets and Kings, p. 466-469)

Even after this purchase, Jeremiah's personal faith was tested... but I love his prayer: "Ah Lord God! behold, thou hast made the heaven and the earth by thy great power and stretched out arm, and there is nothing too hard for thee." (Jer. 32:17)

Not long after, the Word of the Lord came to Jeremiah again, the second time while he was in prison. This promise from God I have claimed many times: "Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and she thee great and mighty things, which thou knows not." (Jer. 33:3)

We may at times find ourselves in hopeless situations, but let us remember that nothing is too much for God. His arm is stretched out still, and there is nothing too hard for Him.

Tomorrow's Reading: Jer. 34-35 and John 13

[Yesterday was a down day for me recovering from these past couple weeks, and I never opened the computer for ANYTHING yesterday, until this morning, so I still need to post yesterday's post. I apologize to all those following this daily reading.]

Day 291 - Promises from Heaven

Today's Reading: Jer. 29-31 and Ps. 119:1-24

Today's reading holds promises that are especially near and dear to my heart. These promises have been such an encouragement to me over the years, and they are an encouragement to me again today.

Let me share them again here:

"For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end. Then shall ye call upon me, and ye shall go and pray unto me, and I will hearken unto you. And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart." (Jer. 29:11-13)

"For I will restore health unto thee, and I will heal thee of thy wounds, saith the LORD..." (Jer. 30:17)

"The LORD hath appeared of old unto me, saying, Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with lovingkindness have I drawn thee." (Jer. 31:3)

"Thus saith the LORD; A voice was heard in Ramah, lamentation, and bitter weeping; Rahel weeping for her children refused to be comforted for her children, because they were not. Thus saith the LORD; Refrain thy voice from weeping, and thine eyes from tears: for thy work shall be rewarded, saith the LORD; and they shall come again from the land of the enemy. And there is hope in thine end, saith the LORD, that thy children shall come again to their own border." (Jer. 31:15-17)

"I have satiated the weary soul, and I have replenished every sorrowful soul." (Jer. 31:25)

If you've been broken, if you have felt forgotten at times by the Lord, if you've been wounded, if you are weary, or if you have children (even spiritual children) that are wandering, these promises are for you! What comfort there is in these promises from Heaven. 

Tomorrow's Reading: Jer. 32-33 and John 12

Day 290 - Do we believe in a God that is Living and Alive today?

Today's Reading: Jer. 27-28 and John 11

Today in John 11, we read about the story of Lazarus death. Every time I read this story, I think of the three common beliefs we have as Christians. 

Let me explain:

When Jesus arrived FINALLY... four days late... Lazarus was already dead! And Martha asked Jesus, why He wasn't there four days ago, for if He had been, Lazarus would not have died. 

In other words, Martha believed in the Jesus of YESTERDAY. If He'd been there four days ago, Lazarus could not have died.

Jesus responds by saying, "Lazarus will rise again!" Immediately now, Martha's faith jumps to the future... "I know he will rise again at the resurrection." By stating this, she is saying, "Yes, I believe in the God of the FUTURE! I believe he will rise again!" But was Jesus talking about the resurrection at the last days? No! He was talking about TODAY, that day! 

But Martha wasn't sure about the God of today... She wasn't sure if he could bring Lazarus to life that day, and this is evident by the fact that she continues to protest when Jesus asks for the stone to be rolled away! 

So my question for us today... We all know about the God of the past, and we also all know about the God of the future... but do we believe in the living God of TODAY?

Tomorrow's Reading: Jer. 29-31 and Ps. 119:-1-24

Day 289 - Life and Life More Abundant

Tomorrow's Reading: Jer. 25-26 and John 10

I wrote down many notes from today's reading, but don't have much time to share, however here's a few quick thoughts. 

In these verses we basically see that the Lord has a controversy with the nations. His people are not listening to His voice, and so 70 years of captivity is foretold. Unfortunately the people want to kill Jeremiah because of the dark future that he speaks of. Thankfully, later he is acquitted. However, the future remains dark for Israel... and I can't help but wonder about the parallels to us today. 

Another different point that I love from today's reading is John 10. 

John is just packed full of wisdom and richness. I love the verse in John 10:10 which tells us how Jesus is sent to bring us life and life more abundant. In other words, it's not His will that we have a superficial mediocre wilderness like life. No, He came to bring LIFE and LIFE MORE ABUNDANT!!!! But do we see who is trying to keep us from experiencing this abundant life? It is the enemy! 

The enemy comes to STEAL, to KILL and to DESTROY. I think he comes to steal our courage, to kill our hope, and to destroy our faith and trust in God. Anything he can do to keep us from moving forward, to keep us from drawing close to God... He will do. If we look at every trial and circumstance in that light, it makes more sense. But let us not forget that it is God's purpose to bring abundant life to His children. 

Tomorrow's Reading: Jer. 27-28 and John 11

Day 288 - Give us Eyes to See!

Today's Reading: Jer. 23-24 and John 9

In John 9, in today's reading, we see the beautiful story of Jesus healing the blind man. The blind man couldn't see, but he believed, and felt at Jesus' feet in worship. Inspiration tells us: "The [man born blind] cast himself at the Savior's feet in worship. Not only had his natural sight been restored, but the eyes of his understanding had been opened. Christ had been revealed to his soul, and he received Him [Jesus] as sent from God." (Desire of Ages, p. 475)

However, it's interesting to note that while the blind man was made whole and able to see, the Pharisees were made blind it seems.

John 9:39 - "And Jesus said, For judgement I am come into this world, that they which see not might see; and that they which see might be made blind."

What in the world?

Again, I so appreciate the thoughts from Inspiration, divinely given to help bring these texts to greater light.

"To all who realized their need, Christ came with infinite help. But the Pharisees would confess no need; they refused to come to Christ, and hence they were left in blindness--a blindness for which they were themselves guilty. Jesus said, "Your sin remaineth." (Desire of Ages, p. 475)

Oh that Christ might open our eyes, and that we would daily realize our desperate need.

Tomorrow's Reading: Jer. 25-26 and John 10

Day 287 - It is Better to Trust in the Lord

Today's Reading: Jer. 21-22 and Ps. 117-118

This morning's thought will be brief! As we stand in a very sobering time in earth's history I thought this was perfect.... especially for today! This is my prayer today!

"I called upon the Lord in my distress : The Lord answered me and set me in a large place. The Lord is on my side; I will not fear what man can do unto me. The Lord taketh my part with them that help me: therefore shall I see my desire upon them that hate me. It is better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in man... I shall not die, but live and declare the works of the Lord." (Ps. 118:5-8,17)

Very fitting words for today!

Tomorrow's Reading: Jer. 23-24 and John 9

Day 286 - Stop Throwing Stones!

Today's Reading: Jer. 19-20 and John 8

I'm stretched pretty thin right now as we are attending Annual Council meetings in Battle Creek MI. Serious times in our church history, and if ever there was a time we should be praying, it is now. So the next few days, if I manage to get thoughts blogged, they will be brief...

Just reading in John 8 where the woman was caught in adultery, and all the proud Pharisees are trying to lay a trap to snare Jesus. "She should be stoned!" they shouted. Jesus calmly replies, "He that is without sin among you may cast the first stone..."

Then He stooped down and wrote in the sand, and slowly one by one they slinked away...

"Those who are forward in accusing others, and zealous in bringing them to justice, are often in their own lives more guilty than they. Men hate the sinner, while they love the sin. Christ hates the sin, but loves the sinner. This will be the spirit of all who follow Him. Christian love is slow to censure, quick to discern penitence, ready to forgive, to encourage, to set the wanderer in the path of holiness, and to stay his feet therein." (Desire of Ages, p. 462)

Dear friends, so often we are like the Pharisees and Saducees in accusing others... we want to throw stones! But we've forgotten that we ourselves are guilty (much more guilty than those we accuse) and worthy of being stoned ourselves. And yet He's pardoned us!!! Let's stop throwing stones and pray. If you want to see change... that's where the power is, because prayer moves the arm that moves the world. And the only leaders who will really make a difference for the Kingdom are those men who humble themselves before God's throne, put down their stones, and pray!

[Note: If you want to join us in praying for our church right now... I have some prayer focus thoughts I've put together for this coming week. E-mail me!]

Tomorrows' Reading: Jer 21-22 and Ps. 117-118

Day 285 - Our Hearts are Desperately Wicked

Today's Reading: Jer. 17-18 and John 7

What a somber title for a post! But do we feel it? Do we understand it? Do we understand our broken and sinful condition apart from Christ?

This morning I was thinking about motives and how even my good actions are so often tainted by self-centered motives. "Oh Lord, forgive me!" I prayed... "How can I be who You've called me to be?" I take comfort in promises like Ezek. 36:26.

But let's focus a bit on the brokenness first. Jeremiah 17:9 tells us like it is: "The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it."

Reading the thought that goes along with this from Christ Object Lessons, really brings this concept to greater clarity. This is a bit long, but so eye-opening. Let me share:

No man can of himself understand his errors. “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked; who canknow it?” Jeremiah 17:9. The lips may express a poverty ofsoul that the heart does not acknowledge. While speaking to God of poverty of spirit, the heart may be swelling with the conceit of its own superior humility and exalted righteousness. In one way only can a true knowledge of self be obtained. We must behold Christ. It is ignorance of Him that makes men so uplifted in their own righteousness. When we contemplate Hispurity and excellence, we shall see our own weakness and poverty and defects as they really are. We shall see ourselves lost and hopeless, clad in garments of self-righteousness, like every other sinner. We shall see that if we are ever saved, it will not be through our own goodness, but through God’s infinite grace. 

The prayer of the publican was heard because it showed dependence reaching forth to lay hold upon Omnipotence. Self to the publican appeared nothing but shame. Thus it must be seen by all who seek God. By faith—faith that renounces all self-trust—the needy suppliant is to lay hold upon infinite power.  

No outward observances can take the place of simple faith and entire renunciation of self. But no man can empty himself of self. We can only consent for Christ to accomplish the work. Then the language of the soul will be, Lord, take my heart; for I cannot give it. It is Thy property. Keep it pure, for I cannot keep it for Thee. Save me in spite of myself, my weak, unchristlike self. Mold me, fashion me, raise me into a pure and holy atmosphere, where the rich current of Thy love can flow through my soul. 

It is not only at the beginning of the Christian life that this renunciation of self is to be made. At every advance step heavenward it is to be renewed. All our good works are dependent on a power outside of ourselves. Therefore there needs to be a continual reaching out of the heart after God, a continual, earnest, heartbreaking confession of sin and humbling of the soul before Him. Only by constant renunciation of self and dependence on Christ can we walk safely.  

The nearer we come to Jesus and the more clearly we discern the purity of His character, the more clearly we shall discern the exceeding sinfulness of sin and the less we shall feel like exalting ourselves. Those whom heaven recognizes as holy ones are the last to parade their own goodness. The apostle Peter became a faithful minister of Christ, and he was greatly honored with divine light and power; he had an active part in the upbuilding of Christ’s church; but Peter never forgot the fearful experience of his humiliation; his sin was forgiven; yet well he knew that for the weakness of character which had caused his fall only the grace of Christ could avail. He found in himself nothing in which to glory. 

None of the apostles or prophets ever claimed to be without sin. Men who have lived nearest to God, men who would sacrifice life itself rather than knowingly commit a wrong act, men whom God had honored with divine light and power, have confessed the sinfulness of their own nature. They have put no confidence in the flesh, have claimed no righteousness of their own, but have trusted wholly in the righteousness of Christ. So will it be with all who behold Christ. (From Christ Object Lessons, p. 159-160)

Let me repeat this one sentence: The nearer we come to Jesus and the more clearly we discern the purity of His character, the more clearly we shall discern the exceeding sinfulness of sin and the less we shall feel like exalting ourselves. 

Let us never forget our focus on Christ! It is He, not us! We can put no confidence in ourselves.

Tomorrow's Reading: Jer. 19-20 and John 8

Day 284 - How Can we Thank God for His Blessings?

Today's Reading: Jer. 15-16 and Ps. 116

I love this question that we find in Psalm 116:12. "What shall I render unto the Lord for all his benefits toward me?"

Have you thought about that? Have you thought about all the blessings that God gives you day after day? Of course, we should be paying our tithes and offerings, we should be giving Him the allegiance of our hearts... but what else do we give Him?

This thought from Inspiration is beautiful and reminds us why we need to look back and review God's blessing and leading in our lives:

The Christian should often review his past life and recall with gratitude the precious deliverances that God has wrought for him, supporting him in trial, opening ways before him when all seemed dark and forbidding, refreshing him when ready to faint. He should recognize all of them as evidences of the watchcare of heavenly angels. In view of these innumerable blessings he should often ask, with subdued and grateful heart, “What shall I render unto the Lord for all His benefits toward me?” Psalm 116:12. 

Our time, our talents, our property, should be sacredly devoted to Him who has given us these blessings in trust. Whenever a special deliverance is wrought in our behalf, or new and unexpected favors are granted us, we should acknowledge God’s goodness, not only by expressing our gratitude in words, but, like Jacob, by gifts and offerings to His cause. As we are continually receiving the blessings of God, so we are to be continually giving. (From Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 187)

Think of it this way... when we love someone, our natural desire is to give! What can we give the Lord to show our love?

Tomorrow's Reading: Jer. 17-18 and John 7

Day 283 - Pray for the Lost while we Still can!

Today's Reading: Jer. 13-14 and John 6

More sobering reading in today's chapters of Jeremiah, as we see the results and the reward given to the people that have turned away from God. "My soul will weep in secret places for your pride; and my eye shall weep sore, and run down with tears, because the Lord's flock is carried away captive." Jeremiah writes.

In another passage the appeal is made to the Shepherds of Israel, the tenders of the flock: "Where is the flock that was given thee?" You see, even the pastors and spiritual leaders have failed and forsaken God. And they have led their flocks astray...

I found it startling to read in these passages, both yesterday and today, that there comes a point that God says, "Don't even pray for them anymore! I'm done. I'm not listening to your prayers on their behalf anymore..."

Jeremiah 11:14 says, "Therefore pray not thou for this people, neither lift up a cry or prayer for them: for I will not hear them in the time that they cry unto me for their trouble."

Then in today's reading I saw it again in Jeremiah 14:11-12: "Then said the LORD unto me, Pray not for this people for their good. When they fast, I will not hear their cry; and when they offer burnt offering and an oblation, I will not accept them: but I will consume them by the sword, and by the famine, and by the pestilence."

Why does God no longer hear? It's because Israel has given themselves over to Baal. And it's like God is finally say, "Enough is enough! Serve Baal. He can't help you, but that's fine. Serve him and don't cry to me anymore, because I won't hear you..."

It takes a long time of forbearance to get to this point, and I think that we are so use to the mercy of God that we take it for granted. We teach, "But He will always forgive!" Yes, He forgives and He is a God of mercy, but a day is coming when His mercy will no longer be extended, and our prayers won't make a difference anymore for those who have chosen the path of destruction... wow!! So sobering! Heartbreaking. In fact, in these passages, even Jeremiah is crying... "My eyes run down with tears night and day, for the virgin daughter of my people is broken with a great breach." (Jer. 14:17)

Probation is running out. Let's PRAY and use the time while we still have it. Let's pray while we still can, for the deliverance of God's people from destruction... Don't stop praying yet!

Tomorrow's Reading: Jer. 15-16 and Ps. 116

Day 282 - Life is in God's Word!

Today's Reading: Jer. 11-12 and John 5

In today's reading of John 5, the Bible tells us, "Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that hearth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life." (vs. 24)

I love what Ellen White writes in Christ Object Lessons: "In every command and in every promise of the Word of God is the power, the very life of God, by which the command may be fulfilled and the promise realized. He who by faith receives the word is receiving the very life and character of God." (p. 38)

And even Christ when He was on earth, did not live for Himself, but for the will of His Father. "I can of mine own self do nothing: as I hear, I judge: and my judgements is just; because I seek not mine own will, but the will of the Father which hath sent me." (John 5:30)

Again, Inspiration writes: "So utterly was Christ emptied of self that He made no plans for Himself. He accepted God's plans for Him, and day by day the Father unfolded His plans. So should we depend upon God, that our lives may be the simple outworking of His will." (Desire of Ages, p. 208)

However, in contrast to what I've shared above, as I read in Jeremiah this morning, I saw a different picture, a people who had been given a great gift--God's Word in the form of His covenant, and yet they did not obey it, they did not reverence it. "Cursed be the man that obeyeth not the words of this covenant." (Jer. 11:3)

"Only as a reverence for God’s Holy Word was cherished in the hearts of the people, could they hope to fulfill the divine purpose. It was regard for the law of God that gave Israel strength during the reign of David and the earlier years of Solomon’s rule; it was through faith in the living word that reformation was wrought in the days of Elijah and of Josiah. And it was to these same Scriptures of truth, Israel’s richest heritage, that Jeremiah appealed in his efforts toward reform. Wherever he ministered he met the people with the earnest plea, “Hear ye the words of this covenant,” words which would bring them a full understanding of God’s purpose to extend to all nations a knowledge of saving truth. Jeremiah 11:2." (Prophets and Kings, p. 465)

Let's no neglect God's Word... it is what leads us to our source of life, God Himself! Let's cherish it in our hearts!

[Authors endnote: Many people ask me "How much time do you spend on these blogs each day? This must take you so much time?... Well, to be honest, sometimes it takes more time than others, especially when I bear my soul in lengthy testimonies, but the average time is not very long. This post took me less than 10 minutes to write and post. Just sharing tidbits of inspiration I find each day is a blessing and helps me remember what I've read... ]

Tomorrow's Reading: Jer. 13-14 and John 6

Day 281 - Let us Glory in This...

Today's Reading: Jeremiah 9-10 and John 4

Here is true wisdom and here is true glory! Jeremiah 9:23-24 says the following:

"Thus saith the LORD, Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, neither let the mighty man glory in his might, let not the rich man glory in his riches: But let him that glorieth glory in this, that he understandeth and knoweth me, that I am the LORD which exercise lovingkindness, judgment, and righteousness, in the earth: for in these things I delight, saith the LORD."

Our only glory, our only HOPE is that we know God! It's not just about an intellectual relationship, it's about a relationship. This "knoweth" is the same Hebrew word as is used when Adam first "knew" his wife. It is an intimate knowing, an intimate understanding. 

As we have been reading in Jeremiah, we've been seeing that judgement is coming upon the land. God's people have turned away. Their hearts have compromised with the world. Yet, in this passage of Jeremiah 9:24, we are reminded afresh of God's compassion and hesitancy to punish His people. 

Ellen White writes the following: 

"The unwillingness of the Lord to chastise is here vividly shown. He stays His judgments that He may plead with the impenitent. He who exercises 'loving-kindness, judgment, and righteousness, in the earth' yearns over His erring children; in every way possible He seeks to teach them the way of life everlasting. Jeremiah 9:24. He had brought the Israelites out of bondage that they might serve Him, the only true and living God. Though they had wandered long in idolatry and had slighted His warnings, yet He now declares His willingness to defer chastisement and grant yet another opportunity for repentance. He makes plain the fact that only by the most thorough heart reformation could the impending doom be averted. In vain would be the trust they might place in the temple and its services. Rites and ceremonies could not atone for sin. Notwithstanding their claim to be the chosen people of God, reformation of heart and of the life practice alone could save them from the inevitable result of continued transgression." (Prophets and Kings, p. 413)

There are many things we could glory in... and people do. But there's no power in strength, in worldly wisdom, in wealth or influence. Our only power and safety is in the fact that we know God. Let us not walk our only path any longer. As Jeremiah 10:23 reminds us, "It is not in man that walketh to direct His steps."

We need a reformation of heart and life! We need to fall in love again with our Lord!

Tomorrow's Reading: Jeremiah 11-12 and John 5

Day 280 - Spiders, Spiders, Everywhere!

Today's Reading: Jer. 7-8, and Ps. 114,115

"Are you afraid of spiders?" If you had asked me this question previously, I probably would have answered, maybe a bit too pridefully, "I'm not! I'm a country girl. I can handle spiders." However, lately this seems to be changing...

This morning, before I share about my Bible reading in Jeremiah, I want to share a personal testimony. You see, this fall I've been having a spider problem in my apartment. At odd and random times, I will walk into a room and discover a gigantic spider sitting in the middle of the floor. Where he came from, I know not... but with shaking hands, I grab as much tissue as I can find, or a big book, and go after him. Usually, spiders do not phase me... however... these ones I've been encountering lately are of a different kind. And they will make the bravest soul shake in their boots! (Okay, maybe that's an exaggeration, but that's how I feel... because I always thought I was brave.)

Anyway, so this past Friday evening, as Sabbath was opening, I was calmly reading in my living room when this large spider went running across my floor. I immediately got up to chase it with the nearest book in hand, which turned into my weapon. Unfortunately this spider got away, and is still running around free somewhere in my little apartment. (And I'm still shaking as a result!)

However, the story is not over. Immediately after this unfruitful chase, I opened my front door to spray RAID around the entrance and cracks in my door (I have an older two-door entrance that doesn’t seal properly at the bottom), so I was hoping by spraying RAID that I would detour any further outside visitors that might try to sneak in through the cracks. Well, when I opened my front door, what did I discover sitting under my door at that very moment, but another HUGE spider just waiting for a opportunity to sneak inside! He was so big that I grabbed my phone and took a quick video... followed up by another video of my “scared goosebumps” reaction after the battle with this spider had ended. I then posted these videos on Instagram for all my 678 followers to see. Looking back a day later, my reaction and fright all seems rather foolish and I was asking myself last night, “Why did you share those videos on social media?” I’m sure everyone’s laughing and thinking, “Melody! You’re a country girl... get a grip! It was only a spider!” Perhaps my reactions were a bit over dramatized and perhaps it was foolish to share. However, these spiders episodes that I've been having lately have really got me thinking...

You see, since the invasion of the spiders this fall, I've become pretty hyper sensitive and vigilant.  In fact, if I have to get up in the middle of the night, I turn on the lights so I don't accidentally step on a spider. And when I do discover one, I go after it like a wild woman. I can hardly rest until he's been obliterated. But after this past Friday night, I've been thinking to myself: These spiders are too big for me. I need help fighting these spiders. 

So, here's the Spiritual Application!

What if we attacked sin and the spiritual compromises that sneak into our life with the same ferocity that I've been going after these spiders. What if instead of sitting passively by, and watching the devil eat away at our lives, we began to open God's Word with fresh determination, and asking Him to shed light upon our path that we will not stumble into sin and be overcome by temptation. What if instead of accepting the "giant spiders" of spiritual failure, the "evil spiders" of compromise and sin, or the "ugly spiders" of spiritual apathy, we began trembling in our boots and crying out, "Lord, this battle is too much for me! These spiders are too big for me! I thought I was brave. I thought I was strong. But I'm not! Please help me! Forgive me for my apathy. Forgive me for the the cracks and footholds I've given to the enemy... Help me fill in the breaches in my walls. Help me to be fortified and strong in You and Your Word once again." 

What if this was our cry... What if we reacted to sin the same way I've been reacting to these crazy little spiders???

Reading these chapters in Jeremiah has been so sobering, but also very eye-opening the last several days. In fact, I feel like I've been reading a book about the church of today... not just of Jeremiah's time. We as a church have compromised in so many ways spiritually that our walls of protection have fallen, and the world has started marching in on all sides. There are spiders, spiders, everywhere. Yet, for the most part, it seems like God's people are just sitting by passively watching the parade... in fact, some of them are even laughing at those of us seeking to put up a fight. "Why are you being so sensitive?" they ask. "Those things are not a big deal... Those compromises that you call sin are just a little spiders. They are harmless! They are nothing to get all worked up about!" And they laugh some more. But these little spiders (sins) are coming in by the trainloads... and God's church is in distress as a result. Our walls are falling!

Yet, God continues to plead with His people. He's still offering us another chance, if we will humble ourselves and repent. All is not yet lost. There's still hope!

"Thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel, Amend your ways and your doings, and I will cause you to dwell in this place.Trust ye not in lying words, saying, The temple of the LORD, The temple of the LORD, The temple of the LORD, are these. For if ye throughly amend your ways and your doings; if ye throughly execute judgment between a man and his neighbor; If ye oppress not the stranger, the fatherless, and the widow, and shed not innocent blood in this place, neither walk after other gods to your hurt: Then will I cause you to dwell in this place, in the land that I gave to your fathers, for ever and ever." (Jer. 7:3-7)

God's promise to the people of Israel is for us, but it requires action. Let us awaken out of our spiritual lethargy and recognize the seriousness of the times. This is not the time to sit still. We are in a spiritual war, not against each other, not against the leaders of our church, or against any human being, not against physical spiders (like I've been freaking out about lately) but against something much bigger. We are in war against principalities and spiritual wickedness in high places. We are in war against the very enemy of our souls. But where are God's soldiers? It seem's no one is trembling these days, because our enemy has snuck in through a thousand cracks in our life. He's snuck in camouflaged as little spiders... 

It's time we get into God's Word, to allow Him to shine the spotlight of truth upon our hearts (Ps. 139:23,24). It's time we learn to pray... and I mean REALLY PRAY! It's time we put on our spiritual armor...and keep it on (Eph. 6).

This morning as I was reading in Jeremiah 7 and 8, I was marveling at the patience and mercy of God and how long He waited for His people. You would think that Israel would have listened to his appeal. But the Bible tells us sadly: "But they hearkened not, nor inclined their ear, but walked in the counsels and in the imagination of their evil heart, and went backward, and not forward.... This is a nation that obeyeth not the voice of the LORD their God, nor receiveth correction: truth is perished, and is cut off from their mouth." (Jer. 7:24,28)

What a sad fate came to Israel because they would not hear the truth of God's Word. May the same fate not fall upon us...

I say, it's time to wage war on the spiders. Your spiders might look different than mine. Perhaps your spiders have to do with a secret private addiction, an attitude you carry with you, a lust or an appetite for something that is harmful that you have not yet overcome. Perhaps your spider is called "doubt" as you look at God and His Word. Or perhaps your spider has to do with some worldly love or idol, or a relationship that is leading you away from God. Perhaps your spider is a subtle growing "bitterness" against the church. Whatever it is, let's pray that God would help us to be spiritually fortified once again! Like I said... It's time to stop laughing and it's time, through God's power, to wage war on these spiders!

Tomorrow's Reading: Jer. 9-10 and John 4

Day 279 - Where are the MEN of backbone?

Today's Reading: Jeremiah 5-6 and John 3

In these chapters we see Judah's complete rejection of the Lord. Obviously there seems to be a lack of godly strong men...

So the appeal is made in Jeremiah 5:1. "Run ye to and fro...and see if you can find a man, if there be any that executeth judgement, and that seeketh truth."

Where are the men who are really seeking TRUTH? Where are the men who will stand for TRUTH no matter the cost? We live in a generation that is largely lacking, especially in the area of godly strong men....

This plea from Jeremiah 5 reminds me of the quote from Education, "The greatest want of the world is the want of men--men who will not be bought or sold, men who in their inmost souls are true and honest, men who do not fear to call sin by its right name, men whose conscience is as true to duty as the needle to the pole, men who will stand for right though the heavens fall."

How do such men come to be? Ellen White continues: "But such a character is not the result of accident; it is not due to special favors or endowments of Providence. A noble character is the result of self-discipline, of the subjection of the lower to the higher nature--the surrender of self for the service of love to God and man." (Education, p. 57)

Let us pray that God will raise up more men (and of course women too, because the challenge applies to us all) that will be self-controlled, controlled by Christ and who will stand, no matter the cost!

Tomorrow's Reading: Jeremiah 7-8 and Ps. 114, 115

Day 278 - Do we have Tears of Repentance?

Today's Reading: Jer. 3-4 and John 2

Over and over in today's reading, I see the Lord crying, "Return oh backsliding Israel... return and I will have mercy upon you. Just acknowledge your iniquity..."

God says, because of your sins, "therefore the showers have been held back and there has been no latter rain" for the harvest.

It's interesting that in old times, a punishment for sin was lack of physical rain. Today we experience droughts as well, but how much more do we experience a drought of the Holy Spirit. But the Holy Spirit will not be poured out on a people that are stubbornly walking their own way. We need to pray for true repentance and change of heart in our church. First and foremost we need to pray this for our own selves.

Ellen White writes in the following paragraphs about true repentance:

"We often sorrow because our evil deeds bring unpleasant consequences to ourselves; but this is not repentance. Real sorrow for sin is the result of the working of the Holy Spirit. The Spirit reveals the ingratitude of the heart that has slighted and grieved the Saviour, and brings us in contrition to the foot of the cross. By every sin Jesus is wounded afresh; and as we look upon Him whom we have pierced, we mourn for the sins that have brought anguish upon Him. Such mourning will lead to the renunciation of sin.  

The worldling may pronounce this sorrow a weakness; but it is the strength which binds the penitent to the Infinite One with links that cannot be broken. It shows that the angels of God are bringing back to the soul the graces that were lost through hardness of heart and transgression. The tears of the penitent are only the raindrops that precede the sunshine of holiness. This sorrow heralds a joy which will be a living fountain in the soul. “Only acknowledge thine iniquity, that thou hast transgressed against the Lord thy God;” “and I will not cause Mine anger to fall upon you: for I am merciful, saith the Lord.” Jeremiah 3:13, 12. “Unto them that mourn in Zion,” He has appointed to give “beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness.” Isaiah 61:3. (DA 300)

Beautiful! Love that thought... "The tears of the penitent are only the raindrops that precede the sunshine of holiness."

Tomorrow's Reading: Jer. 5-6 and John 3

Day 277 - Before you were born, I knew you!

Today's Reading: Jer. 1-2 and Ps. 112-113

Today we start Jeremiah.... I love the passages in Jer. 1:5-9 which talk about how God knew Jeremiah before he was even formed in the womb. This reminds us that there are no accidental "Oooops" births among God's people. God has a purpose for our life long before our parents even know that we will be born!

I also love how Jeremiah says, "I can't speak... I am child...." I'm not a prophet like Jeremiah, but how I relate to those feelings he expressed. I feel that way all the time when asked to speak. I mean all the time. "Lord, why are you asking me to speak... I feel like a child... I understand and know so little. Can't you find someone else?"

Here's Jeremiah's conversation with the Lord:

"Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou lamest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations. Then said I, Ah, Lord GOD! behold, I cannot speak: for I am a child. But the LORD said unto me, Say not, I am a child: for thou shalt go to all that I shall send thee, and whatsoever I command thee thou shalt speak. Be not afraid of their faces: for I am with thee to deliver thee, saith the LORD. Then the LORD put forth his hand, and touched my mouth. And the LORD said unto me, Behold, I have put my words in thy mouth."

Oh that He would put His words in our mouth... but how often do we go forward, and walk and work with our own words. How often do we try to work in our own might and our own strength instead of humbly leaning upon the Lord.

Jeremiah's life was definitely filled with purpose and Ellen White talks about his life in ministry in the following paragraphs:

For forty years Jeremiah was to stand before the nation as a witness for truth and righteousness. In a time of unparalleled apostasy he was to exemplify in life and character the worship of the only true God. During the terrible sieges of Jerusalem he was to be the mouthpiece of Jehovah. He was to predict the downfall of the house of David and the destruction of the beautiful temple built by Solomon. And when imprisoned because of his fearless utterances, he was still to speak plainly against sin in high places. Despised, hated, rejected of men, he was finally to witness the literal fulfillment of his own prophecies of impending doom, and share in the sorrow and woe that should follow the destruction of the fated city. 

Yet amid the general ruin into which the nation was rapidly passing, Jeremiah was often permitted to look beyond the distressing scenes of the present to the glorious prospects of the future, when God’s people should be ransomed from the land of the enemy and planted again in Zion. He foresaw the time when the Lord would renew His covenant relationship with them. “Their soul shall be as a watered garden; and they shall not sorrow any more at all.” Jeremiah 31:12. (Prophets and Kings, p. 408)

There's a lot of depth in the book of Jeremiah, and I'm excited to read through this book of Jeremiah again.

Tomorrow's Reading: Jer. 1-2 and Ps. 112-113