Sept. 30, Day 142 - Psalm 142

Click here to go to Psalm 142

How many times have I felt like David, that nobody cares, nobody pays attention, yet God always does! And it's amazing how He manages to send people my way to remind me of that!

God is Good!

Sept. 29, Day 273 - Proverbs 27

Click here to go to Proverbs 27

¹⁴ A loud and cheerful greeting early in the morning
    will be taken as a curse!

That one fits me so much! I'm so not a morning people and people who are make me crazy!!

But in seriousness...

As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend. (17)

There's a lot of good stuff. 

Sept. 28, Day 272 - Titus 2

Click here to go to Titus 2

I think the part that jumped out to me the most was the section about the older women teaching the younger ones. My church is mufti-generational and we do see interaction between our senior citizens and the younger people, but maybe not as much as Paul was intended.

There's some other good stuff here too. I don't remember really reading Titus. (I know I have other times I've read the Bible through, but it all seems new)

Sept. 27, Day 271 - Titus 1

Click here to go to Titus 1

Paul instructs Titus on the importance of the elders living godly lives. I like the part about hospitality.

Sept. 26, Day 270 - 2 Timothy 4

Click here to go to 2 Timothy 4

As Paul closes this letter I'm sure it was hard for Timothy to read as Paul was saying goodbye.  I don't know if Timothy was to get to Paul before he died or not, but I'm sure these words meant a great deal to him.

I also have seen a lot of our society in these past 2 chapters. In Southern California there seems to be many churches that seem to fall into this category:
³ For a time is coming when people will no longer listen to sound and wholesome teaching. They will follow their own desires and will look for teachers who will tell them whatever their itching ears want to hear. ⁴ They will reject the truth and chase after myths.

But Paul opens the chapter encouraging Timothy with these words:
1) I solemnly urge you in the presence of God and Christ Jesus, who will someday judge the living and the dead when he appears to set up his Kingdom: ² Preach the word of God. Be prepared, whether the time is favorable or not. Patiently correct, rebuke, and encourage your people with good teaching.

 

Sept. 25, Day 269 - 2 Timothy 3

Click here to go to 2 Timothy 3

The importance of scripture:
¹⁶ All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. ¹⁷ God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work.

Sept. 24, Day 268 - 2 Timothy 2

Click here to go to 2 Timothy 2

Sorry for being late today... work issues had me working last night (ya, I know bad for a Sunday night, but it doesn't happen too often)

But 2 Timothy 2 is rich with words of wisdom and truth... several jumped out at me but here are the 2 that I really liked:
3 Endure suffering along with me, as a good soldier of Christ Jesus. ⁴ Soldiers don’t get tied up in the affairs of civilian life, for then they cannot please the officer who enlisted them. ⁵ And athletes cannot win the prize unless they follow the rules. 

and
¹⁵ Work hard so you can present yourself to God and receive his approval. Be a good worker, one who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly explains the word of truth.

"who correctly explains the word of truth" this summer our pastor took our Sunday School class through how to do an inductive Bible study and then asked each of us to take a Sunday and prepare a lesson. I went first.  There's a lot of work in preparing a lesson from scratch, especially when the pastor is one of the members. I take serious the scripture that talks about teachers having a responsibility. (sorry I can't remember where that verse is) It was neat for me when Pastor used things from my lesson during our prayer time. (I used John 17, the title was "Jesus Prayed for You!"

And He did! Before facing the beatings and the cross, He prayed for us. 
A nice thought for a Monday morning! 

Sept. 23, Day 267 - Psalm 136

Click here to go to Psalm 136

Such a power packed Psalm!
Give Thanks to the Lord for He is GOOD!
His Mercy Endures FOREVER! (Depending on the translation)

One of my favorite worship songs sung by one of my favorite singers.

Sept. 22, Day 266 - Proverbs 26

Click here to go to Proverbs 26

²⁰ Fire goes out without wood,
    and quarrels disappear when gossip stops.

So very, very true!

 

Sept.. 21, Day 265 - 2 Timothy 1

Click here to go to 2 Timothy 1

For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.

One of my favorite verses but there's lots of good stuff in 2 Timothy 1.

¹³ Hold on to the pattern of wholesome teaching you learned from me—a pattern shaped by the faith and love that you have in Christ Jesus. ¹⁴ Through the power of the Holy Spirit who lives within us, carefully guard the precious truth that has been entrusted to you.

Sept. 20, Day 264 - 1 Timothy 6

Click here to go to 1 Timothy 6

There's so much in this chapter, I'm not sure where to start. We start in first one with: Do not let the name of God and our teaching be spoken against because of poor work. How sad it is when a Christian's work ethic disgraces God. Verse 6: A God-like life gives us much when we are happy for what we have. This leads into the reminder that the love of money is the beginning of all kinds of sins. 

And finally:
¹¹ But you, man of God, turn away from all these sinful things. Work at being right with God. Live a God-like life. Have faith and love. Be willing to wait. Have a kind heart. ¹² Fight the good fight of faith. Take hold of the life that lasts forever. You were chosen to receive it. You have spoken well about this life in front of many people.

Enjoy the conference Roseanna and I'm guessing Lane you're there too!

Sept. 19, Day 263 - 1 Timothy 5

Click here to go to 1 Timothy 5

This chapter reminds us of how we need to take care of those less fortunate in our church, especially the widows who have no family.

I also find this verse interesting:
19 Do not listen to an accusation against an elder unless it is confirmed by two or three witnesses. 20 Those who sin should be reprimanded in front of the whole church; this will serve as a strong warning to others.

I don't think we see much of verse 20 happening these days.

Sept. 18, Day 262 - 1 Timothy 4

Click here to go to 1 Timothy 4

In high school I ended up in ministry and this passage became my life verses:
12 Don’t let anyone think less of you because you are young. Be an example to all believers in what you say, in the way you live, in your love, your faith, and your purity. 13 Until I get there, focus on reading the Scriptures to the church, encouraging the believers, and teaching them.

14 Do not neglect the spiritual gift you received through the prophecy spoken over you when the elders of the church laid their hands on you. 15 Give your complete attention to these matters. Throw yourself into your tasks so that everyone will see your progress.

Now that I'm not so young I still love these verses and I think the truths still apply.

Sept. 17, Day 261 - 1 Timothy 3

Click here to go to 1 Timothy 3

The requirement for church leadership. I think it's important to have criteria for leadership, especially not having a new Christian in a key role such as an elder.

Sept. 16, Day 260 - Psalm 135

Click here to go to Psalm 135

This is a beautiful Psalm. It starts out with a command to praise the Lord. Then the Psalmist gives testimony to the great things that God had done. Then he moves to directing his comments personally to the God. He denounces all other Gods and finishes instructing others to praise the Lord.

A good reminder of how we should live.

Happy Sunday!

Sept. 15 - Day 259 Proverbs 25

Click here to go to Proverbs 25

This is one of those proverbs that just seems to be a random bunch of thoughts. But one I liked was:
Good news from far away    is like cold water to the thirsty. (25)

It really is true...

 

Sept. 14, Day 258 - 1 Timothy 2

Click here to go to 1 Timothy 2

This chapter is rich with information and instruction. It opens with a command to pray.

I urge you, first of all, to pray for all people. Ask God to help them; intercede on their behalf, and give thanks for them. 2 Pray this way for kings and all who are in authority so that we can live peaceful and quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity. 3 This is good and pleases God our Savior, 4 who wants everyone to be saved and to understand the truth.

In this very political season, more than ever we need to be praying for our leaders.

Living in Southern California and working on a college campus verses 9 and 10 especially jump out at me. It is so disturbing to see what young ladies wear around campus. Not understanding the effect they have on those around them, especially those of the opposite sex.

Of course, the last paragraph is very controversial as Paul speaks of the woman's role. The Open Bible cross references 1 Cor. 14:34 where Paul speaks to this issue. I know in the situation with 1 Cor. that Paul was referencing a specific group. I'm not sure about here in 1 Timothy. Paul did have women leaders that he respected. This is one of those passages I'm not sure I'll ever completely understand this side of heaven.

Sept. 13, Day 257 - 1 Timothy 1

Click here to go to 1 Timothy 1

Paul starts this letter to Timothy with a statement of great affection: "...to Timothy, my true son in the faith." And he jumps right in with instructions on the importance of dealing with false teachings. But I also like the way this chapter ends, Paul reminding Timothy that he has a responsibility.

• Cling to your faith
• Keep your conscience clear

He reminds Timothy what has happened to others who have violated their conscience, their faith has been shipwrecked. (and Paul knew a little bit about shipwrecks)

I appreciate so much the fact that my pastor is in an accountability group with other local pastors led by a retired pastor. Each time they meet they ask the hard questions: Are you spending time in prayer and study? Are you struggling with lustful thoughts? And because the group has been together for quite awhile they know each other's weaknesses and will ask each other how they are doing and they pray for and with each other.

Sept. 12 - Day 256 - 2 Thess 3

Click here to go to 2 Thessalonians 3

11 Yet we hear that some of you are living idle lives, refusing to work and meddling in other people’s business. 12 We command such people and urge them in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ to settle down and work to earn their own living. 13 As for the rest of you, dear brothers and sisters, never get tired of doing good.

I love this passage - we shouldn't be idle and expect to be fed. And I always need the reminder "Never get tired of doing good."

Sept. 11, Day 255 - 2 Thessalonians 2

Click here to go to 2 Thessalonians 2

This is an interesting chapter, Paul warns them not to be easily shaken by things others are saying in regards to the Lord's return. And then he reminds them that he thanks God for their faithfulness.

I don't really remember reading this passage before, how many times have we said that this year. Sometimes I feel like the first half of the passage has come true, in that there is a great rebellion against God. But I'm not sure the "man of lawlessness" has bee revealed.

3 Don’t be fooled by what they say. For that day will not come until there is a great rebellion against God and the man of lawlessness[b] is revealed—the one who brings destruction.[c] 4 He will exalt himself and defy everything that people call god and every object of worship. He will even sit in the temple of God, claiming that he himself is God.

I know some might argue with me and that's okay. I try hard to focus on the common ground between the different churches and on issues that don't have a bearing on my salvation it's not worth fighting about. I believe we should always be prepared for the returning at all times.

Have a blessed day!

I'm sure you all will take a moment to remember and pray for those affected by Sept. 11, 2001.
Earlier in 2001 the Lord gave Tommy Walker this song. It was a good reminder then as it is today.

Sept. 10, Day 254 - 2 Thessalonians 1

Click here to go to 2 Thessalonians 1

This second letter to the Thessalonians begins with encouragement for their persecution. Although we don't see the type of persecution that many Christians see around the world, there is a hope. Nothing that happens to us compares to the punishment Jesus took on our behalf.

I just recently reviewed The Open Bible by Thomas Nelson. It was the first Study Bible I had as a new Christian. One of the things I like about it is the information offered at the beginning of each book. So, I'll share little tidbits for the rest of the year.

Since Paul's first letter, the seeds of false doctrine have been sown among the Thessalonians, causing them to waver in their faith. Paul removes these destructive seeds and again plants the seeds of truth.  He begins by commending the believers on their faithfulness in the midst of persecution and encouraging them that present suffering will be repaid with future glory. Therefore, in the midst of persecution, expectation can be high. (page 1230)

Sept. 9, Day 253 - Proverbs 24

Click here to go to Proverbs 24

I really like verse 5:

The wise are mightier than the strong,
    and those with knowledge grow stronger and stronger.

As well as these:

19 Don’t fret because of evildoers;
    don’t envy the wicked.
20 For evil people have no future;
    the light of the wicked will be snuffed out.

Sometimes it's so easy to think "why do bad people get away with what they're doing?!?!?!" But they have no future.

Sept. 8, Day 252 - Psalm 103

Click here to go to Psalm 103


Where do you begin with this Psalm?!?! From the opening verse:
Let all that I am praise the Lord;
    with my whole heart, I will praise his holy name.

To the final verse:
Praise the Lord, everything he has created,
    everything in all his kingdom.
Let all that I am praise the Lord.

And everything in between is so good. So encouraging!! So rich in praise.

Sept. 6, Day 251 - 1 Thess. 5

Click here to go to 1 Thess. 5

I think chapter 5 is my favorite chapter in 1 Thessalonians, but my favorite verses are:

¹⁶ Always be joyful. ¹⁷ Never stop praying. ¹⁸ Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.

¹⁹ Do not stifle the Holy Spirit. ²⁰ Do not scoff at prophecies, ²¹ but test everything that is said. Hold on to what is good. ²² Stay away from every kind of evil.

I like the way The Voice translates this section as well:

Celebrate always, pray constantly and give thanks to God no matter what circumstances you find yourself in. (This is God's will for all of you in Jesus the Anointed). Don't suppress the Spirit. Don't downplay prophecies. Take a close look at everything, test it, then cling to what is good. Put away every form of evil.

I LOVE Celebrate Always!

Sept. 6, Day 250 - 1 Thess. 4

Click here to go to 1 Thess. 4

My APOLOGIES!!
I was so tired last night when I got home I completely forgot to post!

I've had a couple of friends recently who have lost loved ones... these verses give us such hope:

¹³ And now, dear brothers and sisters, we want you to know what will happen to the believers who have died^[f] so you will not grieve like people who have no hope. ¹⁴ For since we believe that Jesus died and was raised to life again, we also believe that when Jesus returns, God will bring back with him the believers who have died.

September 5, Day 249 - 1 Thess. 3

Click here to go to 1 Thess. 3

⁷ So we have been greatly encouraged in the midst of our troubles and suffering, dear brothers and sisters, because you have remained strong in your faith. ⁸ It gives us new life to know that you are standing firm in the Lord.

It's exciting to hear how God is working in other people lives. At our church on 5th Sundays we do a "Count Your Blessings" time during the offering, where people are encouraged to share how God is working in their life. And we sing the old hymn "Count Your Blessings." 

How is God working in your life?

Sept. 4 - Day 248 - 1 Thess. 2

Click here to go to 1 Thess. 2

A very interesting chapter in that Paul doesn't seem to be giving a lot of instruction. Mainly words of encouragement.  But I do like the reminder Paul gives in verse 4:

⁴ For we speak as messengers approved by God to be entrusted with the Good News. Our purpose is to please God, not people. He alone examines the motives of our hearts. 

Sept. 3, Day 247 - 1 Thess. 1

Click here to go to 1 Thess. 1

⁸ And now the word of the Lord is ringing out from you to people everywhere, even beyond Macedonia and Achaia, for wherever we go we find people telling us about your faith in God. We don’t need to tell them about it, ⁹ for they keep talking about the wonderful welcome you gave us and how you turned away from idols to serve the living and true God. ¹⁰ And they speak of how you are looking forward to the coming of God’s Son from heaven—Jesus, whom God raised from the dead. He is the one who has rescued us from the terrors of the coming judgment.

"And they speak of how you are looking forward to the coming of God's son..."

What do people say about us!?!?!? 

Sept. 2, Day 246 Psalm 102

Click here to go to Psalm 102

I love the title that at least the NLT gives this Psalm.

A prayer of one overwhelmed with trouble, pouring out problems before the Lord.

I think there are times when we are all overwhelmed with trouble and when we are we need to pour out our problems before the Lord.

The psalmist bemoans his situation for a few verses then starts declaring the majesty of God. Then it almost seems like he starts bemoaning again but finishes strong with:

They will perish, but you remain forever;
    they will wear out like old clothing.
You will change them like a garment
    and discard them.
²⁷ But you are always the same;
    you will live forever.
²⁸ The children of your people
    will live in security.
Their children’s children
    will thrive in your presence.”

(26 - 28)

God is good and He is faithful!

Sept. 1, Day 245 - Proverbs 23

Click here to go to Proverbs 23

12 - Commit yourself to instruction;
    listen carefully to words of knowledge.

Never too old to learn something!