Two-Year Bible Reading Plan: Old and New Testament Balance (Week 8)

This plan provides a good balance between Old Testament readings and New Testament Readings because it guides you through the New Testament twice as you read through the Old Testament once.  To allow time for reflection, it follows a two-year plan.

Every week I will post the readings for that week and add the daily devotionals as time permits.  If you wish to print a copy of the plan without the devotions, you can find copies of it in pdf format at the link below.  I like to print and use them as bookmarks in my Bible.

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1TQs0_oejNJO8HInVlN1JmSClMhWcEbiG?usp=sharing

The daily readings for this week are included below.

February 19 (Read: Genesis 48, 49 & 50)

The daily devotion to be added later.

February 20 (Read: Psalms 17 & 18)

“Thou hast tried my heart; Thou hast visited me by night; Thou hast tested me and dost find nothing.” (Gen. 42:8,9 NAS)

There is a deep sense of peace that comes from knowing that God has searched your heart and tested your thoughts and found no cause for rebuke.   You cannot experience this if you have hardened your heart toward God.  To hear His voice concerning sinful patterns, you must have a good conscience, with a pure heart, and a sincere faith (1Tim. 1:5).  A pure heart renders a conscience clean, but a good conscience is more than that; it is one that is sensitive to the convictions of the Holy Spirit.  To maintain a pure heart and a sensitive conscience, you must sincerely apply your faith to receive God’s help to overcome any sinful pattern He brings to your attention.  When you walk with God in this manner, your relationship with Him is not hindered by any sin.

If God does convict you of something, when you allow Him to search your heart and try your thoughts (Ps. 139:23,24), you are not rejected or condemned.  You need only confess your sin, and the blood of Jesus will cleanse you from guilt.  The forgiveness of your sins, and a sincere application of faith to overcome sin, will reassure your heart before Him.  You will continue to have fellowship with Him, and a peace that surpasses understanding will keep your heart and mind in Christ Jesus (Phil. 4:7).

Thank You, Father, for the gift of repentance, and the precious blood of Jesus that cleanses me from all unrighteousness.  Your truth and grace have made me free indeed.  I invite You Holy Spirit to search my heart and try my thoughts, that my ways may be pleasing to my God. (2Tim. 2:25; 1Jn. 1:9; Jn. 8:36; Ps. 139:23,24)

February 21 (Read: Psalms 19 & 20)

The daily devotion to be added later.

February 22 (Read: Psalms 21 & 22)

The daily devotion to be added later.

February 23 (Read: Psalms 23, 24 & 25)

The daily devotion to be added later.

February 24 (Read: Psalms 26, 27 & 28)

The daily devotion to be added later.

February 25 (Read: Acts 1 & 2)

“But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be My witnesses both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and even to the remotest part of the earth.” (Acts 1:8 NAS)

After the resurrection, Jesus appeared to the disciples and ordained them to preach repentance for the forgiveness of sins.  First, however, they had to be clothed with power from the Holy Spirit (Lu. 24:47-48).  We are all called to be witnesses for the Lord, but are we all attempting to do this with the power of the Holy Spirit?  As believers we receive the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit.  He is our Teacher (Jn. 14:26).  He helps us to overcome evil (Rom. 8:13).  But there is more that He desires to do.  He wants to manifest spiritual gifts through us for the common good (1Cor. 12:7).  This is not just for ministers; this is for every believer (Acts 2:38,39).  Let us not limit the work of the Holy Spirit with the doctrines of men.  Let us instead pursue love, and desire earnestly spiritual gifts (1Cor. 14:1).  The way to receive the gifts of the Holy Spirit is to offer ourselves to Him for service, and to wait upon Him for empowerment as the early disciples did, in prayer and worship (Lu. 24:53; Acts 1:14).

Thank You, Lord Jesus, for saving me and sending Your Spirit to me as my Helper.  I yield to You, Holy Spirit.  You are my Teacher, my Guide, and my Strength.  Fill me with your power for service.  As I make love my goal, manifest Yourself through me with Your knowledge, Your wisdom, and Your power.

Two-Year Bible Reading Plan: Old and New Testament Balance (Week 7)

This plan provides a good balance between Old Testament readings and New Testament Readings because it guides you through the New Testament twice as you read through the Old Testament once.  To allow time for reflection, it follows a two-year plan.

Every week I will post the readings for that week and add the daily devotionals as time permits.  If you wish to print a copy of the plan without the devotions, you can find copies of it in pdf format at the link below.  I like to print and use them as bookmarks in my Bible.

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1TQs0_oejNJO8HInVlN1JmSClMhWcEbiG?usp=sharing

The readings for this week are included below.

February 12 (Read: Genesis 35 & 36)

“As they journeyed, there was a great terror upon the cities which were around them, and they did not pursue the sons of Jacob.” (Gen. 33:10 NAS)

Jacob again finds himself in a difficult situation, but God intervenes for him because he has the blessing of Abraham.  Jacob returns to Bethel where God first appeared to him and he builds an altar to worship God.  There the Lord appears to him and confirms the promise to give his descendants the land as an inheritance.  The first time Jacob came to Bethel, the Lord visited him in a dream.  This time He appears and speaks to him, then something unusual happens.  The Lord allows Jacob to see Him return upward after the encounter.  This must have been quite an experience, but today we have received something even greater.  In the Book of Hebrews, we read that the fathers of faith received the promises but only saw their fulfillment from a distance (Heb. 11:13).  “And all these, having gained approval through their faith, did not receive what was promised, because God had provided something better for us, so that apart from us they should not be made perfect.” (Heb. 11:39,40).  What they were looking for, we have now come to (Heb. 12:22).  We are the living stones being built into a spiritual house for God (1Pe. 2:5).  We are the very house of God that Jacob had a vision of at Bethel.

Help me, Father, to understand, with the eyes of my heart, what You have accomplished for me in Christ.  Help me to see myself as a part of the spiritual house that You are building.  Thank You for fulfilling in these last days the promises You gave to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

February 13 (Read: Genesis 37 & 38)

“And his brothers were jealous of him, but his father kept the saying in mind.” (Gen. 37:11 NAS)

There are some circumstances we are responsible for, and there are some that are beyond our control.  As in Joseph’s case, even when people do things to harm us, God can turn it to for our good (Rom. 8:28).  That is why, in whichever situation we find ourselves, we should be thankful (1Thess. 5:18).  It may seem at the time, that none of it makes sense, but when God’s plans come to fruition, we eventually see the signs God gave along the way.  The dreams Joseph had were some of those signs, and Jacob hid them in his heart.  In my difficult times of transition, the confirmations that I was in God’s will, helped me stay positive.  If we maintain our trust in the Lord, regardless of what happens, He will continue to reassure us that all is in His control.  We may not understand everything, but His peace will help us to continue to place our trust in Him.

Father, I commit my way to You.  I trust that You are directing my steps.  Your peace, which surpasses all understanding, will help my heart and mind to stay focused on You.  (Ps. 37:5; Isa. 26:3; Phil. 4:7)

February 14 (Read: Genesis 39 & 40)

“But the Lord was with Joseph and extended kindness to him, and gave him favor in the sight of the chief jailer.” (Gen. 39:21 NAS)

Good things and bad things will happen to us; how we react to them will determine our future.  After being sold into slavery, Joseph could have given up on faith, but instead, he trusted God to help him to serve his earthly master well.  “So Joseph found favor in his sight, and became his personal servant; and he made him overseer over his house, and all that he owned he put in his charge.” (Gen. 39:4).  But Joseph was still not where God needed him to be, so despite holding fast to his integrity, he ended up in jail.  Refusing to give in to resentment and self-pity, he decided to serve the chief jailer the way he had served Potiphar.  This allowed him to be where he needed to be when Pharoah’s chief baker and chief cupbearer were sent to jail.  The time, however, had not yet come for him to be released from prison.  How challenging this must have been for Joseph.  He had received dreams of success.  His character, gifts and abilities were maturing.  Despite all this, he was still hidden away in obscurity!  If Joseph was learning anything at all from these trials, it was perseverance (Jas. 1:2-4).  He is one of those Paul exhorts us to imitate because through faith and patience he inherited the promises (Heb. 6:12).  Like Joseph, we should let patient endurance produce in us the character we need to accomplish God’s plan for our lives.  (Rom. 5:3-5). 

Help me, Father, to be patient when my faith is tested.  I thank You that perseverance will produce in me the proven character needed to make me mature and complete, lacking nothing.  I am the work of Your hands, created for the works You prepared for me, even before I was born. (Jas. 1:2-4; Eph. 2:10)

February 15 (Read: Genesis 41)

“So Pharoah said to Joseph, ‘Since God has informed you of all this, there is no one so discerning and wise as you are’.” (Gen. 41:39 NAS)

The gifts and abilities God has given us will open opportunities for service.  What will ensure our success in those situations is our character.  Many highly gifted believers have failed in their calling because of poor character.  Joseph was thirty years old when he became the Prime Minister of Egypt, and he was seventeen when he shared his dream with his brothers.  This means he must have spent at least 10 years in slavery.  We can tell by the names he gives his two sons that they were not easy years.  One he called, “God has made me forget all my trouble and all my father’s household”, and the other, “God has made me fruitful in the land of my affliction”. (vs. 51,52).  It was during those difficult years that Joseph developed character.  At the end of his afflictions, he knew that the gift to interpret dreams was not his own ability but God working though him (vs. 16).  He also had learned that to abide in God’s favor, he could not hold resentments.  Once in the position of his calling, he did not grow slack, but he carried out his responsibilities with faithfulness.  If we want to succeed in our calling, we should allow godly character to develop in us during our times of preparation.  The Apostle Peter lists eight qualities a believer should possess to be successful.  “For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they render you neither useless nor unfruitful in the true knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.” (2Pe. 1:8).

Thank You, Father, that there is a reward for obedience.  Help me to be ready to serve you in season and out of season.  I want to be a clean and yielded vessel, ready for Your use. (Heb. 11:6; 2Tim. 4:2; 2Tim. 3:21)

February 16 (Read: Genesis 42 & 43)

“But Joseph had recognized his brothers, although they did not recognize him.  And Joseph remembered the dreams which he had about them.” (Gen. 42:8,9 NAS)

The dreams Joseph had as a youth were evidence to him that God’s plans were unfolding, although he did not fully understand what they were.  All he could see was that God had sent him ahead to provide a means of deliverance through the coming famine (Gen. 45:7).  God’s plan, however, was far greater than that.  When God made a covenant with Abraham, He was preparing the way for the Messiah to come to earth.  First, the sons of Jacob had to become a large nation which God would bring back into the land promised to Abraham.  When God made a covenant with Abraham, He declared, “Know for certain that your descendants will be strangers in a land that is not theirs, where they will be enslaved and oppressed four hundred years, but I will judge the nation whom they will serve; and afterward they will come out with many possessions.”  Through Abraham’s seed (the Messiah), all nations of the earth would be blessed (Gen. 12:3).  Through the nation of Israel, we received the Law and the Prophets which spoke of the atoning work of the Christ and His kingdom.  As a nation, Israel did not accept Christ, but we are nearing the time when they will accept Jesus as the Messiah (Rom. 11:25,26).  When this happens, it will be time for the Lord to return (Rom. 11:15).  “But when you see these things begin to take place, straighten up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.” (Lu. 21:28).

Thank You, Lord God, that You planned, before the foundation of the earth, to bring all things into Christ.  You chose us to be in Christ, and You have sealed us with Your Holy Spirit.  Thank You, Holy Spirit, for Your abiding presence, always helping us to walk in a manner pleasing to our Father. (Eph. 1:4,10,13; Rom. 8:14; Phil. 2:13)

February 17 (Read: Genesis 44 & 45)

“Now, therefore, it was not you who sent me here, but God; and He has made me a father to Pharaoh and lord of all his household and ruler over all the land of Egypt.” (Gen. 45:8 NAS)

Joseph credits God with not only bringing him to Egypt but also making him ruler over all the land of Egypt.  How many of us would give God full credit for our successes?  In today’s world, when people have a measure of success, they want to go on speaking tours or write books about it.  Too often I have heard an element of pride come out of the mouths of some successful ministers.  It is difficult to balance the grace of God working through us and our own obedience of faith.  When God accomplishes something through us, it does not mean that we are not participants; we are co-workers with Christ.  Joseph certainly played a part in his success.  He served his earthly masters faithfully, as onto the Lord.  How he viewed his role, however, was minimized in his own eyes.  It reminds me of what Jesus taught: “So you too, when you do all the things which are commanded of you, say, ‘We are unworthy slaves; we have done only that which we ought to have done.’” (Lu. 17:10).  Joseph was humble in heart.  The Apostle Paul had the same attitude towards his own success.  “But by the grace of God I am what I am, and His grace toward me did not prove vain; but I labored even more than all of them, yet not I, but the grace of God with me.” (1Cor. 15:10).

Forgive us, Lord, when to take credit for what You accomplish through us.  We are Your servants, and faithfulness is what is required of us.  You are the One working in us to will and to do what is pleasing in Your sight.  We will speak what You inspires through us.  We will serve with the strength You provides.  Help us, Holy Spirit, to guard our hearts from pride.  (Phil. 2:13; 1Pe. 4:11).

February 18 (Read: Genesis 46 & 47)

“And God spoke to Israel in visions of the night and said, ‘Jacob, Jacob.’ And he said, ‘Here I am.’” (Gen. 46:2 NAS)

Travelling to Egypt to reunite with Joseph was wonderful, but it left some questions unanswered.  When God makes promises to us, and the direction we take appears to be contrary to what it should be, we must seek God for confirmation.  He is always willing to guide us.  After beginning the journey, and while still in the land of Canaan, Jacob sought the Lord.  He needed to know if God would bless his travels and allow him to see Joseph before he died.  He was also concerned about his family returning to the land God promised to Abraham.  The Lord heard Jacob’s prayer and spoke to him in visions of the night.  When we walk with God by faith, He directs our steps and instructs us on the way we should go.  “Commit your way to the Lord, trust also in Him, and He will do it.” (Ps. 37:5).  We do not make our own plans, then ask God to bless them; we commit our way to Him and trust that He will direct our steps.

Father, Your Word says that if I place my trust in You, my steps will be ordered by You. I am Your disciple; my spiritual senses have been awakened to hear Your instructions.  I trust in Your faithfulness as I commit my way to you.  (Ps. 37:5,23; Isa. 50:4)

Two-Year Bible Reading Plan: Old and New Testament Balance (Week 6)

This plan provides a good balance between Old Testament readings and New Testament Readings because it guides you through the New Testament twice as you read through the Old Testament once.  To allow time for reflection, it follows a two-year plan.

Every week I will post the readings for that week and add the devotionals as time permits.  If you wish to print a copy of the plan without the devotions, you can find copies of it in pdf format at the link below.  I like to print and use them as bookmarks in my Bible.

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1TQs0_oejNJO8HInVlN1JmSClMhWcEbiG?usp=sharing

The readings for this week are included below.

February 5 (Read: Genesis 22 & 23)

“And Abraham said to his young men, ‘Stay here with the donkey, and I and the lad will go yonder; and we will worship and return to you.’” (Gen. 25:5 NAS)

Here we see expressed in words the faith Abraham had in his heart.  Much has been said about the confession of faith; sometimes placing it ahead of faith itself.  Confessing the right words is not what makes faith, and neither can saying the wrong things nullify your faith.  It is merely an expression of the faith that is in the heart, but even as such, it is very important.  Abraham had been promised that through Isaac his descendants would be named, so he believed that God would either provide a different sacrifice, or He would resurrect Isaac (Gen. 21:12).  Either way, he was prepared to obey. 

There are most likely situations in your life where you just knew that God would come through with His promise to you.  When that was the case, you had no problem doing what God asked of you, regardless of how it looked to others.  There may also have been situations where you were not so quick at walking out in faith.  What should we do when those situations happen?  Since the issue is the condition of the faith we have in our heart, we need to build up our faith before walking out on it.  This is done by meditating on God’s promises, while fellowshipping with Him in the Spirit (Rom. 10:17).  To obtain faith, we must allow time for God’s promises to be established in our heart and to allow hope to grow.  Then, when hope is established, we act upon it in faith (Rom. 4:18; Heb. 11:1).  Knowing the condition of faith in our heart can be difficult.  What I do to discern it is to pay attention to the words I speak to others.  Do I find myself confessing faith with conviction, or is it forced?  I have learned to be more concerned about the true condition of my faith than about confessing the right things. 

Thank You, Father, for Your promises.  Help my faith to grow concerning Your provision for my spiritual, mental, emotional, and physical needs. You have promised to teach and guide me in the way I should walk.  Your desire is that I prosper and be in good health, even as my soul prospers. You work in me both to will and to do what pleases You.  (Ps. 32:8; 3Jn. 2; Phil. 2:13)

February 6 (Read: Genesis 24)

“Now Abraham was old, advanced in age; and the Lord had blessed Abraham in every way.’” (Gen. 24:1 NAS)

To walk in the obedience of faith as Abraham did results in much blessing.  We have seen how God regarded Abraham as a prophet and a friend.  Now he is old in age and he has one last thing to accomplish.  He wants a bride for Isaac that is from his own relatives.  Through the covenant of circumcision, he is aware that God makes a distinction between him and the people of Canaan.  He tells his servant, “I will make you swear by the Lord, the God of heaven and the God of earth, that you shall not take a wife for my son from the daughters of the Canaanites, among whom I live.” (Gen. 24:3).  Abraham is confident that the Lord, who has blessed him all his life, will send an angel to accomplish this.  The servant, however, is concerned about making such an oath.  What if the girl he finds is not willing to come? 

As we read the account, we find that not only does the Lord help him find a bride for Isaac, but He has also prepared the heart of Rachel to accept the invitation.  Rachel, being sensitive to the Lord’s promptings, does not hesitate to draw water for the man’s camels.  Sensing in her heart that the Lord sent this man, she accepts the invitation, even though she must leave her family and marry a man she has never met. 

And, what about Isaac?  He is blessed, because “He who finds a wife finds a good thing, and obtains favor from the Lord.” (Prov. 18:22).  Rebecca also is blessed, because Isaac accepts her as his wife, and he loves her (Gen. 24:67).

Father, You are a loving God who takes pleasure in blessing Your people.  I will not be anxious for anything, but I will seek first Your kingdom and Your righteousness, and all my needs will be taken care of.  In prayer, I will make my requests known to You, with thanksgiving, and Your peace will guard my heart and mind in Christ Jesus. (Matt.6:31-33; Phil. 4:6,7)

February 7 (Read: Genesis 25 & 26)

“And it came about after the death of Abraham, that God blessed his son Isaac.” (Gen. 25:11 NAS)

The blessing Isaac received is the blessing associated with the covenant God made with Abraham.  “I will bless you, and multiply your descendants, for the sake of My servant Abraham.” (Gen. 26:25).  Isaac became very wealthy and it became clear even to the Philistines around him that he was now “the blessed of the Lord” (Gen. 26:29).  Ishmael also was blessed, but he did not receive the blessing of the covenant.  Isaac had two sons, but it was Jacob who received the blessing of Abraham (Gen. 28:4).  The promise to Abraham was that in him, all the nations of the earth would be blessed (Gen. 12:3).  Jesus Christ is the seed of Abraham Who has inherited Abraham’s blessing, and all those who believe in Christ are joint heirs with Him. (Gal. 3:16,29).  From all nations, those who believe in Christ are sons of Abraham (Gal. 3:7,14).  The blessing of Abraham is more than land and material blessings.  In Christ, we are blessed with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places (Eph. 1:3).  God purposed from the very beginning that He would unite all things in Christ, things in heaven and things upon the earth (Eph. 1:9,10).  He will rule over all of God’s creation, and we will rule with Him as His Bride.  We are blessed in this life, and in the one to come.  Let’s pray over ourselves the prayer that Paul prayed for the Ephesians.

I pray that the God of my Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to me a spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of Him.  I pray that the eyes of my heart may be enlightened, so that I may know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, and what is the surpassing greatness of His power toward us who believe.” (Eph. 1:17-19).

February 8 (Read: Genesis 27 & 28)

“Then the Lord will be my God…and of all that Thou dost give me I will surely give a tenth to Thee.” (Gen. 28:21,22 NAS)

Jacob was about twelve years of age when his grandfather Abraham passed away.  He was old enough to have heard firsthand how God had called Abraham and made a covenant with him.  He would have also heard from Isaac how God appeared to him and promised to bless him as He had Abraham.  Jacob must have desired the blessing of Abraham because he traded with Esau for his birthright, and he deceived his father to obtain the blessing of the eldest.  But until the Lord appears to him in a dream, all the experiences were his father’s or his grandfather’s.  Now the Lord was speaking to him personally.  Experiences are important, but we should not seek them, we should seek the Lord and let Him decide how He will communicate with us.  We walk by faith, not by sight.  Until this time, Jacob had been living under Isaac’s faith.  Now, we see him beginning to live by his own faith.

The dream itself was given to Jacob, but it has significance for us as well.  The place where the dream occurs is called Bethel, the house of God.  Angels, who are messengers of God, ascend and descend between heaven and earth, at the location of God’s house.  We, as believers, are the house of God.  When we gather as believers, Christ is present in Spirit.  In His manifested presence, we can experience the ministry of His angels.  The more you believe for this, the more you will experience it.

Father, I thank You for Your Holy Spirit dwelling in me.  My body is Your temple, and I am a living stone being made into a spiritual house, which is the Body of Christ.  I love Your manifested presence, and I receive the ministry of Your angels who minister to those who have obtained salvation.  (1Cor. 6:19; 1Pe. 2:5; Heb. 1:14)

February 9 (Read: Genesis 29 & 30)

“Jacob served seven years for Rachel, and they seemed to him like only a few days because of his love for her.” (Gen. 29:20 NAS)

Being blessed by God does not mean everything goes well.  Jacob worked many years before accumulating any possessions.  Laban, however, became prosperous because of him.  Instead of becoming jealous, Jacob grew in faith and patience (Heb. 6:12).  When an opportunity came for him to obtain his own flock of sheep, he applied the faith that had been growing in him and God blessed him immensely.   

To grow in faith and patience, it is necessary to endure hardships.  What makes these trials easier to bear is hope and love.  The time Jacob spent serving Laban to marry Rachel seemed to go by quickly because of his love for her, and the hope he had that they would one day be together.  Likewise, the difficulties we face as believers are much easier to endure when we are in love with the Lord.  It may seem odd, but we can even rejoice when we are persecuted because “If you are reviled for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you.” (1Pe. 4:14).  Peter calls this the Spirit of glory because it is a special manifestation of the presence of God.

Lord Jesus, You endured much suffering for me, and You promised that if I endure with You, I will also reign with You.  Father, please forgive those who mistreat me, they do not know that what they do to me, they are doing to my Lord.  Thank You Holy Spirit for the anointing that rest upon me when I am persecuted.  Help me to see these things as the early disciples who rejoiced in their sufferings because they had been considered worthy to suffer shame for Your name. (2Tim. 2:12; Acts 5:41)

February 10 (Read: Genesis 31 & 32)

“Then the Lord said to Jacob, ‘Return to the land of your fathers and to your relatives, and I will be with you.’” (Gen. 31:3 NAS)

What importance should we place on circumstances when we try to discern the will of God for our lives?  In this portion of Scripture, we find Jacob experiencing a strained relationship with Laban, after having spent many years serving him.  Is it time for him to move away?  If he leaves, where will he go?  When he left the land of Canaan, his brother Esau wanted to kill him, so how does he know if it is time to return?  At this opportune time, Jacob received a word from the Lord to go back to the land of his fathers (Gen. 31:3).  This word gave him the confidence he needed to face Esau again.

Facing difficult circumstances is not always an indication that God is directing us out of a situation.  If the Lord provides an opportunity for service, we should work with Him in it, regardless of opposition (1Cor. 16:9).  If, however, we have been serving for a while with favourable circumstances, then things turn negative, then maybe it is time for a change.  We need to seek the Lord for discernment.  Circumstances alone should never be our guide; we should always seek personal guidance from the Lord.

Thank You Lord, my Shepherd.  You always lead me to green pastures.  You give me the ability to hear Your voice and to follow You.  Help me Lord to discern Your will in all my circumstances.  I desire to do Your will, even if difficulties present themselves.  In You, Lord, I am an overcomer.  (Ps. 23:2; Jn. 10:3; Rom. 8:37)

February 11 (Read: Genesis 33 & 34)

“And Jacob said ‘No, please, if now I have found favor in your sight, then take my present from my hand, for I see your face as one sees the face of God, and you have received me favorably.’” (Gen. 33:10 NAS)

Having to face Esau again was one of Jacob’s greatest struggles, but it allowed him to experience God in a very meaningful way.  The messengers he sent ahead to his brother returned with the report that Esau was coming to meet him with four hundred men (Gen. 32:6).  What else could this mean but destruction?  Jacob, however, turned to God, Who had instructed him to return to the land of promise.  This trial led to an encounter with the Lord that he would never forget.  When his brother arrived with his four hundred men, he received Jacob favorably.  By saying, “I see your face as one sees the face of God”, Jacob was declaring his awe and joy an answer to his prayers.  After he settled near Shechem, he bought a piece of land and erected an altar to honor God, the God of Israel.  Jacob was a new man, with a new name; he was now called Israel.

The trials we face are never pleasant, but when we face them in faith and prayer, we come out stronger.  Our relationship with God grows when we put our trust in Him.  We learn to say with the Psalmist, “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil; for Thou art with me; Thy rod and Thy staff, they comfort me.” (Ps. 23:4).

I praise and thank You, Father, for your lovingkindness and faithfulness to me.  As You were with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, You are with me.  I am an heir of the same promises in Jesus Christ. (Gen. 32:10; Gal. 4:28)

Two-Year Bible Reading Plan: Old and New Testament Balance (Week 5)

This plan provides a good balance between Old Testament readings and New Testament Readings because it guides you through the New Testament twice as you read through the Old Testament once.  To allow time for reflection, it follows a two-year plan.

Every week I will post the readings for that week and add the devotionals as time permits. If you wish to print a copy of the plan without the devotions, you can find copies of it in pdf format at the link below.  I like to print and use them as bookmarks in my Bible.

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1TQs0_oejNJO8HInVlN1JmSClMhWcEbiG?usp=sharing

The readings for this week are included below.

January 29 (Read: Genesis 4, 5, & 6)

“If you do well, will not your countenance be lifted up?  And if you do not do well, sin is crouching at the door; and its desire is for you, but you must master it.” (Gen. 4:7 NAS)

From the beginning, God planned to offer His Son as a sacrificial lamb for our sins.  Abel, by faith, understood that a lamb was an acceptable offering to God, but Cain preferred to offer the work of his own hands.  God’s response to Cain’s dejection reveals an important principle concerning our relationship with God.  It is not enough to be forgiven for sins; we must master sin itself.  The way to do this was demonstrated by Abel.  “By faith, Abel offered to God a better sacrifice than Cain, through which he obtained the testimony that he was righteous.” (Heb. 11:4).  Religious works cannot please God; faith with obedience does. 

The next example we have is Enoch who “walked with God; and he was not, for God took him.” (Gen. 5:24).  What a witness that must have been to his generation.  But, as men continued to populate the earth, they did not learn to overcome sin.  Instead, man’s wickedness became “great upon the earth” (Gen. 6:5).  Amid that generation, “Noah found favor in the eyes of the Lord” (Gen. 6:8).  He believed God and did what God commanded him to do (Gen. 6:22). 

The need to master sin is still required of us today, but God has provided the way of victory through Christ.  “And who is the one who overcomes the world, but he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God?”  (1Jn. 5:5). 

Thank You, Jesus, for taking a body like mine and overcoming sin and death for me.  Your blood has made me righteous, and through Your death, I have died to the power of sin.  I consider myself dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus.  You live in me, and I live by faith in You. (Rom. 6:6-14; Gal. 2:20)

January 30 (Read: Genesis 7, 8, & 9)

“When the bow is in the cloud, then I will look upon it, to remember the everlasting covenant between God and every living creature of all flesh that is on the earth.” (Gen. 9:17 NAS)

Somehow, the earth changed after the flood.  God used the rainbow as a sign of His covenant to not destroy the earth again with a flood.  If the rainbow only began to occur after the flood, then the earth would have had a different atmosphere before the flood.  I have often wondered if more happened to the earth during the flood than just destruction by water.  The Apostle Peter appears to say that when Christ died, He went to preach to those who perished before the flood.  There is no mention of Him preaching to those who perished after the flood, which could mean that there is some kind of spiritual separation between both worlds.  As humans, we tend to interpret the past from the viewpoint of our present experience.  Maybe there are more dimensions to our existence than we realize.  This is another mystery which we should be open to, but not too quick to make conclusions about.  God’s thoughts are so much higher than our thoughts, and His ways so much higher than our ways (Isa. 55:8,9).  For me, this is humbling.  I can never expect to figure things out with my mind.  I must rely on the Holy Spirit to teach me all things.

Thank You, Lord Jesus, for upholding all things by the word of Your power.  Your thoughts, Father, are so much higher than my thoughts.  Thank You, Holy Spirit, for spiritual wisdom and understanding.  You have given me the mind of Christ.  (Heb. 1:3; 1Cor. 2:16)

January 31 (Read: Genesis 10 & 11)

“And the Lord said, ‘Behold they are one people, and they all have one language.  And this is what they began to do, and now nothing which they purpose to do will be impossible for them.’” (Gen. 11:6 NAS)

If the Lord had to scatter the people to prevent them from accomplishing all that they purposed, what will He do in these days of internet and artificial intelligence?  The world is coming so much closer to uniting under the false kingdom of the antichrist.  As this is happening, we are to rejoice because our redemption is drawing so much closer.  I came to realize not too long ago that if the Lord has His messengers preparing His people for His return, the devil also has his messengers preparing the way for the coming of the antichrist.  As spiritually minded people, we should be aware of his schemes and purpose to not to get caught up in them.  Personally, I believe that believers, especially in America, are too involved in politics.  In democratic countries, we have a social responsibility to vote and to serve, when possible, but we should also realize that no political party truly has the Lord as its Head.  There are two things I endeavour to do in these last days.  The first is to keep my eyes on the Lord, and to be found doing His will when He returns.  The second is to be aware of the devil’s schemes and not to be caught in his deceptions.  Both require that I stay in close fellowship with the Holy Spirit, pursuing the godly goal of loving from a pure heart, a good conscience, and a sincere faith (1Tim. 1:5). 

Thank You, Father, for Your patience with mankind.  Your desire is that none should perish, but that all should repent and believe on the Lord Jesus Christ.  Left to ourselves, mankind would have destroyed itself a long time ago. Your great love, however, is bringing redemption to mankind as we await for the promise of eternal life on a newly created heaven and earth.  Thank You also for Your patience and kindness towards me, as I seek to do Your will, and wait patiently for Your return.  (2Pe. 3:9, 13)

February 1 (Read: Genesis 12, 13, & 14)

“And I will make you a great nation and I will bless you, and make your name great; and so you shall be a blessing.” (Gen. 12:2 NAS)

Why would God choose Abraham to make these promises to?  Firstly, he believed God and obeyed Him.  Throughout his journey, he demonstrated faith.  When the Lord appeared to him, he responded by building an altar to the Lord, and returned there later to call upon the name of the Lord (Gen. 12:7, 8; 13:4).  When he came back from defeating Chedorlaomer, he offered a tithe of the spoils to Melchizedek, not as a religious obligation, but as an act of faith.

There is another reason why God chose Abraham.  He could be trusted to “command his children and his household after him to keep the way of the Lord by doing righteousness and justice.” (Gen. 18:19).  We know he did this because Isaac and Jacob continued, in faith, as heirs of the promise.  When it comes to doing righteousness and justice, we need to be careful not to judge Abraham or his descendants.  The righteousness imputed by God is based on faith (Rom. 4:3).  This is a faith that takes God at His word and acts accordingly.  Doing righteousness and justice is an extension of faith when we walk according to our conscience.  “The faith which you have, have as your own conviction before God…and whatever is not from faith is sin.” (Rom. 14:22,23).  James called this the law of liberty: “So speak and so act, as those who are to be judged by the law of liberty.” (Jas. 2:12). 

Thank You, Father, for Your promises.  You made a nation of Abraham and sent the prophets to proclaim the coming of the Messiah.  Now we, who believe in Christ, are children of Abraham and heirs of the promises.  Bless us, Lord, that we may be a blessing to others.

February 2 (Read: Genesis 15, 16, & 17)

“And Abram said, ‘O Lord God, what wilt Thou give me, since I am childless, and the heir of my house is Eliezer of Damascus?” (Gen. 15:2 NAS)

By the time God appears to Abraham and promises him a son, a relationship has developed between them.  Each step along the way, the plan of God has unfolded and Abraham has continued to believe God.  He was seventy-five years old when God brought him from Haran into the land of Canaan.  Ten or so years have passed, and he has grown very prosperous.  Now God appears to him and promises to reward him greatly, but Abraham has a question in his heart.  Even though he has been very blessed, why has God withheld a son from him?  Will God be angry if he asks this question?  Because of their relationship, he dares to ask it.  God reassures him by revealing that he will have a son from his own body.  “‘And Abraham believed God, and it was reckoned to him as righteousness,’ and he was called the friend of God.” (Jas. 2:23). 

What made Abraham’s relationship with God that of a friend? Jesus told His disciples, “You are My friends, if you do what I command you.  No longer do I call you slaves, for the slave does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all things that I have heard from My Father I have made know to you.” (Jn. 15:14,15).  The Lord wants our relationship with Him to be that of a friend, not just a servant.  As a friend, we can ask questions that a servant would not ask.  Friendship with God requires obedience, which comes from love rather than from a sense of duty.  Do you have questions in your heart that you hesitate to talk to God about?  If you are God’s friend, you may confidently ask, and He will answer.

Lord, You called Abraham Your friend, and You told the disciples that they were also Your friends.  Help me Lord to trust and obey You as a friend.  I know I can bring my needs to You in prayer, because You care for me. (1Pe. 5:7)

February 3 (Read: Genesis 18 & 19)

“Far be it from You to do such a thing, to kill the righteous with the wicked, so that the righteous and the wicked are treated alike.  Far be it from You! Shall not the Judge of all the earth deal justly?” (Gen. 18:23 NAS)

Abraham was confident enough in his relationship with the Lord that he could question Him concerning His judgments.  It is not that he wished to instruct the Lord; he just wanted to understand God’s ways.  The Lord’s reply to Abraham reveals the extent of His mercy.  If there were only 10 righteous in Sodom, He would not destroy the city.  Lot and his family amounted to only four so the city was destroyed.  Even so, the Lord sent his angels to lead Lot and his family out of the city before judgment came.

Jesus told His disciples that they are the salt of the earth.  Salt is used as a preservative.  The judgment of the unrighteous of this world is still being delayed today because of the righteous few.  Can it be that judgment over a nation is held back because of the righteous in that nation?  As followers of Christ, we can influence our communities by living godly lives.  We can also fulfill our priestly function by interceding for the people and the leaders of the land “so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity” which will result in more people getting saved. (1Tim. 2:1-4). 

Father, I come boldly before Your throne because of the blood of Jesus.  As a priest in Your house, I intercede for the people of this land, that You would delay Your judgment and allow more to come to salvation.  In faith, I sprinkle the precious blood of Christ upon the people of this land.  Lord Jesus, Your sacrifice was sufficient to redeem these people. Thank You, Father, for Your great love and mercy.

February 4 (Read: Genesis 20 & 21)

“Now therefore, restore the man’s wife, for he is a prophet, and he will pray for you, and you will live.  But if you do not restore her, know that you will surely die, you and all who are yours.” (Gen. 20:7 NAS)

It is difficult to understand how Abraham could have asked Sarah to protect him as he did.  Nonetheless, God still regarded him as a prophet, and as such judgment fell upon Abimelech and his household.  David understood the importance of honoring God’s anointed when he refused to take Saul’s life, even though God had called him to replace Saul as king.  We have often heard the phrase, “touch not God’s anointed”, applied to ministers, but have you ever understood it from the perspective of unbelievers towards believers (Ps. 105:15)?  Every believer is a priest of the Lord, anointed by the Holy Spirit. When Jesus was being crucified, He asked the Father to forgive those who were crucifying Him because they did not know what they were doing.  Stephen prayed the same things when he was being stoned to death.  The Scriptures say that God will afflict those who afflict us at the appearing of Jesus our Lord (2Thess. 1:6,7).  Have you ever felt compassion instead of hatred for those who persecuted you?  How terrible it will be for those who mistreat God’s people and do not repent before the Lord returns.  If we are convinced of their coming judgment, we will pray for those who persecute or mistreat us.  “And Abraham prayed to God; and God healed Abimelech and his wife and his maids, so that they bore children.” (Gen. 20:17). 

Father, help me to understand my function as a priest of the Lord.  Help me also to be always aware that what people do to me, they are doing to Christ.  Your return, Lord Jesus, will be terrifying for all those who have refused to repent for how they have treated You and Your people.  Help me to forgive those who persecute or mistreat me.  Lead them to repentance and faith for salvation.

Two-Year Bible Reading Plan: Old and New Testament Balance (Week 4)

This plan provides a good balance between Old Testament readings and New Testament Readings because it guides you through the New Testament twice as you read through the Old Testament once.  To allow time for reflection, it follows a two-year plan.

Every week I will post the readings for that week and add the devotionals as time permits.  If you wish to print a copy of the plan without the devotions, you can find copies of it in pdf format at the link below.  I like to print and use them as bookmarks in my Bible.

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1TQs0_oejNJO8HInVlN1JmSClMhWcEbiG?usp=sharing

The readings for this week are included below.

January 22 (Read: Luke Chapter 24)

“Then He opened their minds to understand the Scriptures.” (Lu. 24:45 NAS)

The disciples’ lack of understanding of the Lord’s death hindered their ability to believe the resurrection.  They kept thinking the Messiah should sit on David’s throne and deliver the nation from oppressors like Rome.  Even at His ascension, they still were asking when He would restore the kingdom to Israel (Acts 1:6).  How much of the Scriptures do we still try to interpret from an earthly perspective?  There is only one way to truly understand the Gospel; that is by the revelation of the Spirit.  When Jesus rebuked the devil through Peter, He said, “You are a stumbling block to Me; for you are not setting your mind on God’s interests, but man’s” (Matt. 16:23).  Most perversions of the Gospel come from that same perspective.  They are always putting mankind’s interest before God’s.  It was necessary for Jesus to die for our sins, to rise again, and to send the Holy Spirit.  The restoration of the kingdom is first spiritual, then, at His return, it will be visible.   To properly understand Scripture, we must humbly put aside our own opinions and receive revelation from the Holy Spirit.

Thank You, Father, that Your plans for us are good, but Your thoughts are so much higher than our thoughts.  Help us to understand the Scriptures.  Forgive us for putting the temporal interests of mankind ahead of Your eternal interests.  Help us to have a healthy understanding of sin because if we confess our sins, You are faithful to forgive us and to cleanse us.  We choose to walk in the light as You are light. (1Jn. 1:5-9)

January 23 (Read: Psalm 1, 2 & 3)

“And he will be like a tree firmly planted by streams of water…” (Ps. 1:3a NAS)

How wonderful it is to know that there is a path to fruitfulness.  I can be like a tree planted by streams of water, bearing fruit and prospering in whatever I do.  I want to know this path and walk in it every day.  I will delight in Your law, Lord.  Your whole law is contained in Your commandment to love.  I will hide Your words in my heart that I might not sin against You.  I will not walk in the counsel of the wicked, but I will meditate on Your words to receive spiritual understanding.  I will fellowship with You, Holy Spirit.  “As the deer pants for the water brooks, so my soul thirsts for Thee, O God.” (Ps. 42:1).  Your manifested presence will satisfy my thirst.  Your words in my heart will grow and bear fruit in their season.  I will submit to Your pruning, Father, that I may bear more fruit (Jn. 15:2).  I will not be afraid because You are a shield to me.  I have made the Lord my refuge, even the Most High my dwelling place. (Ps. 91:9).  Because I live in You and seek to do Your will, my prayers will be answered and everything I do will prosper. 

January 24 (Read: Psalm 4, 5, & 6)

“In the morning, O Lord, Thou wilt hear my voice; in the morning I will order my prayer to Thee and eagerly watch.” (Ps. 5:2 NAS)

Taking time at the start of my day to fellowship with God is very important; it sets the tone for my walk with God that day.  After this time of devotions, I try to remain sensitive to His guidance and instructions throughout the day.  It takes discipline to make this devotional time effective.  What works well for me is to start with reading Scripture.  It can be anything that the Lord impresses upon my heart to read, or it can simply be following a Bible Reading plan.  As I read, I pray and listen with my heart.  I will meditate on any verse that seems to speak to me.  As the Lord begins to open my understanding to the Scriptures, I am careful to listen and not let my mind be distracted with study.  There is a time for study, but my devotional time is for listening.  Watching in prayer, to me, means turning my focus to the Lord to see what He is saying.  The apostle John did this on the Isle of Patmos.  “And I turned to see the voice that was speaking with me.” (Rev. 1:12).  The Lord began to speak to John was he was in prayer, in the Spirit (Rev. 1:10).  When I spend time in communion, I am taught as a disciple (Is. 50:4).  If I begin my day by ordering my prayer to Him, He will order my day in the fulfilment of His will.

Thank You, Lord, for opening my ears to hear and my eyes to see what You are saying.  To experience Your manifested presence is wonderful, but what You desire from me is obedience.  Your words I will hide in my heart that I may obey You.  By faith I will live in You that You may also live through me by grace.  In Christ we have all received grace upon grace. (Ps. 119:11; Gal. 2:20; Jn. 1:16).

January 25 (Read: Psalm 7, 8, & 9)

“Thou hast made him to rule over the works of Thy hands; Thou hast put all things under his feet.” (Ps. 8:6 NAS)

When quoting this verse, the writer of the letter to the Hebrews says that God is speaking of the world to come.  “But now we do not yet see all things subjected to him.  But we do see Him who has been made for a little while lower than the angels…” (Heb. 2:8,9).  This verse was very helpful to help me understand the order for which all things will be put under the feet of Christ.  It is not that God cannot do it all at once, but because He wants to give all of mankind the opportunity for salvation, He delays the return of Christ to rule the earth.  Paul tells us what the last enemy to be destroyed is: “But each in his own order; Christ the first fruits, after that those who are Christ’s at His coming, then comes the end, when He delivers up the kingdom to the God and Father, when He has abolished all rule and all authority and power.  For He must reign until He has put all His enemies under His feet.  The last enemy that will be abolished is death.” (1Cor. 15:23-26).  Before the end comes, the nation of Israel will also be saved.  We read about this in Romans Chapter 11, and Peter referred to it in one of his sermons: “that He may send Jesus, the Christ appointed for you, whom heaven must receive until the period of restoration of all things about which God spoke by the mouth of His holy prophets from ancient time.” (Act 3:21).  The restoration that the prophets spoke about is the restoration of the nation of Israel.

Lord Jesus, You are the King of kings, the Lord of lords.  To You has been given all authority in heaven and in earth.  You are returning soon and will destroy the last enemy which is death.  Thank You, Father, for delaying the return of our Lord until the completion of Your salvation plan.  When we say “Maranatha, our Lord come!” we pray for the completion of Your work and for our Lord’s quick return.

 January 26 (Read: Psalm 10, 11, & 12)

“O Lord, Thou hast heard the desire of the humble; Thou wilt strengthen their heart, Thou wilt incline Thine ear.” (Ps. 10:17 NAS)

There are so many things that humans rely on for strength.  We may call it something else, but the issue is the same.  When I was struggling with quitting a smoking habit, the Lord showed me this verse: “for it is good for the heart to be strengthened by grace, not by foods” (Heb. 13:9).  I understood immediately that I was using it as a means of calming myself, and that instead I should be receiving grace.  Pride will tell us that we do not need anything, but humility will help us confess our needs.  God resists the proud, but He gives grace to the humble (Jas. 4:6).  This word of the Lord helped me to not only obtain victory, but it ushered me into a new spiritual experience.  I understood that the grace I would receive would strengthen my heart to develop character.   The fruit of the Spirit would be with me forever, but strength from natural things is only temporary, and it often comes with negative consequences.  “The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God stands forever.” (Isa. 40:8).

Thank You, Father, for making abundance of grace available to me in Christ.  Strengthen my heart with power through Your Spirit.  Develop in me godly character that my soul may be transformed into the image of Christ.  Through Your promises, I can partake of Your divine nature.  (Jn. 1:16; Eph. 3:16; 2Pe. 1:4).

January 27 (Read: Psalm 13, 14, 15 & 16)

“O Lord, who may abide in Thy tent?  Who may dwell on Thy holy hill?” (Ps. 15:1 NAS)

We know that salvation is a gift; we cannot work for it.  What then is the psalmist referring to in Psalm 15?  He asks the questions above, then answers with, “He who walks with integrity, and works righteousness…” (vs. 2).  Salvation is not by works, so what then is the place of good works?  The last verse provides the answer: “He who does these things will never be shaken.” (vs. 5b).  We can abide in the blessings of the Lord, in this life on earth, if we walk in obedience.  The Apostle Peter takes this a little further: “for as long as you practice these things, you will never stumble; for in this way the entrance into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ will be abundantly supplied to you.” (2Pe. 1:10,11).  Walking in obedience keeps us from falling away from the faith.  Salvation does not just begin by faith; it is a walk of faith.  We express our faith through obedience to God.  We cannot begin in faith then continue in works; our obedience is by grace through faith.  Grace for living is the ability that God gives us to live righteously.  “For it is God who is at work in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure.” (Phil. 2:13). 

Thank You, Lord, for the gift of salvation.  Thank You also for the grace to live in a way that pleases You.  You are the God of all grace Who will perfect, confirm, strengthen and establish me. (1Pe. 5:10).

January 28 (Read: Genesis 1, 2, & 3)

“This is the account of the heavens and the earth when they were created, in the day that the Lord made earth and heaven.” (Gen. 2:4 NAS)

There are so many mysteries included in these first three chapters of Genesis.  “It is the glory of God to conceal a matter, but the glory of kings is to search out a matter.” (Prov. 25:2).  We must be careful not to close the wells of revelation with the traditions of man.  Neither should we discard traditional teachings to adopt the latest interpretations.  We should examine every teaching and hold fast to what is good (1Thess. 5:21).  Keeping my spirit open to revelation has allowed me to see so much more in the creation account than what can be seen on the surface.  Even when we receive revelation knowledge, we cannot let our minds run off and make more of it than what has been revealed.  Confirming revelation requires patience.  If God reveals something to you in Genesis, He will confirm it in other passages of Scripture.  For example, when referring to a man and his wife cleaving together to become one flesh (Gen. 2:24), Paul declares this as a great mystery concerning Christ and His Church.  By calling it a great mystery, he is stating that there is more to it than a mere comparison.  The second Adam was formed when the Word became flesh.  The Father put the first man to sleep to make for him a wife, and He put Christ to sleep (the crucifixion) so He could make for Him a Bride (the Church).  The love relationship between Christ and the Church has eternal significance.  In an earthly marriage, we become one flesh.  In Christ we become one spirit with Him (1Cor. 6:17).  He purchased us with His blood; we are not our own, we belong to Him.

Father, Your Word contains so many mysteries that relate to Christ and the Church.  I pray that the eyes of my heart may be enlightened so that I may know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, and what is the surpassing greatness of His power toward us who believe.” (Eph. 1:18,19).

Two-Year Bible Reading Plan: Old and New Testament Balance (Week 3)

This plan provides a good balance between Old Testament readings and New Testament Readings because it guides you through the New Testament twice as you read through the Old Testament once.  To allow time for reflection, it follows a two-year plan.

Every week I will post the readings for that week and add the devotionals as time permits.  If you wish to print a copy of the plan without the devotions, you can find copies of it in pdf format at the link below.  I like to print and use them as bookmarks in my Bible.

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1TQs0_oejNJO8HInVlN1JmSClMhWcEbiG?usp=sharing

The readings for this week are included below.

January 15 (Read: Luke Chapters 13 & 14)

“But when you give a reception, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind, and you will be blessed, since they do not have the means to repay you; for you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous.” (Lu. 14:13,14 NAS)

I have been guilty in the past to give for the wrong reasons.  Listening to teachings on prosperity, I tried to give as a “seed offering” to receive a monetary harvest.  I understand now that the harvest I receive is not of this world because the seeds sown are seen by the Lord as spiritual in nature, not physical.  When we do acts of kindness, we are sowing seeds of righteousness, and we will be rewarded accordingly by the Lord.  We need to maintain an eternal perspective.  It is not wrong to expect a reward for giving, but we should not expect rewards that perish.  If we raise our expectations above the natural realm, we will see that the blessings of the Lord are eternal, not temporal.  Our greatest reward is to become like God in character.  After the Lord’s return, we are to be His Bride, ruling with Him over all creation.  Our pleasure will not be in ruling, but in being near Him.  When we give, expecting nothing in return, it does not means that we are not expecting God to reward us; we are simply expecting nothing in return from this world.  Our desire is for eternal things, not temporal ones.

Thank You, Lord, that my soul is being transformed into Your image.  I am partaking of Your divine nature.  Help me Lord to give with an eternal perspective.  My greatest desire is to be close to You.  You have made a place for me to sit with You on Your throne as You rule all of creation forever.  I want to be where You are, Lord, for all eternity.

January 16 (Read: Luke Chapters 15 & 16)

“And I say to you, make friends for yourselves by means of the mammon of unrighteousness; that when it fails, they may receive you into the eternal dwellings.” (Lu. 16:9 NAS)

The Lord tells a parable about an unrighteous steward who is wise in the ways of the world.  God is expecting us also to be wise, but not according to the wisdom of this world.  People will use money to gain the things of this world.  We should use money to serve God.  “If you have not been faithful in the use of that which is another’s, who will give you that which is your own?” (vs. 12).   It is not always easy to think of ourselves as stewards when it comes to material things, but that is how God sees us.  What is required of stewards is that they be found trustworthy (1Cor. 4:2).  If we maintain an eternal perspective, we will remember that it is more blessed to give than to receive (Acts 20:35).  It is not wrong to receive; God wants to meet our needs.  We should, however, be careful of what captures our heart.  Do we trust God and seek to please Him, or do we seek the things of this world?

Lord, I humbly receive Your instructions.  Forgive me when I put my trust in the things You have given me rather than in You as my provider.  You are Jehovah-Jireh, the Lord Who Provides. Thank You, Holy Spirit, for developing in me the fruit of faithfulness.  I thank You, Father, for Your abundant grace and mercy.

January 17 (Read: Luke Chapters 17 & 18)

“The kingdom of God is not coming with signs to be observed; nor will they say, ‘Look, here it is!’ or, ‘There it is!’  For behold, the kingdom of God is in your midst.” (Lu. 17:20,21 NAS)

The Jews were looking for a Messiah who would deliver them from earthly rulers.  The appearing of Jesus was not at all what they expected.  The Lord was coming to the hearts of mankind to deliver them from the enemy of their souls.  The coming of His kingdom was more powerful than earthly armies, but they could not see it.  What about His Second Coming?  Are we expecting a Messiah to deliver us from the troubles that are coming upon this world?  He certainly will appear with signs to be observed, but is that the coming of His kingdom?  He told the Jews that the kingdom of God was within them.  His Spirit is in the hearts of His people, and His kingdom is being extended over the earth.  What we have failed to understand is that the Lord must come “to” His temple before He comes to judge the world.  “And the Lord, whom you seek, will suddenly come to His temple…But who can endure the day of His coming? And who can stand when He appears?  For He is like a refiner’s fire and like fullers’ soap.” (Mal. 3:1,2).  His manifested presence will increase in greater measures until He is finally revealed to the World, as the Lord of Lords.  Receiving Him in our midst is not just receiving a religion that bears His name, it is allowing Him to build us into a corporate body, a holy city, a temple for our God.

Father, I open my heart to Your Spirit and Your Word.  May Your kingdom come, may Your will be done in my life as it is done in heaven.  Holy Spirit, help me to be sensitive to Your voice, as you teach and guide me.  Thank You, Lord Jesus, for Your government of righteousness and peace over us.

January 18 (Read: Luke Chapter 19)

“‘Well done, good servant; because you were faithful in a very little…” (Lu. 19:17 NKJV)

If we love the Lord, we want to hear these words when we finally appear before Him.  How can we know if we have been faithful in His eyes?  In my own strength I cannot do it, so I must, by faith, let Christ live through me.  Faithfulness is a fruit of the Holy Spirit; it manifests in my life as I walk in the Spirit. 

I have learned not to compare myself to others because we all have been assigned different talents.  If I compare myself to someone with less talents, I may think I am doing well when I am not.  If, on the other hand, I compare myself to someone who has more talents, I may condemn myself when I should not.  I always remind myself to let the Lord be my judge.

Another thing I have learned is to be faithful in the little things, so that I can be given greater responsibilities.  The little things are those things pertaining to the natural life; they are temporal in nature.  The greater things are those things that pertain to eternity, like how we help build the Body of Christ.

Father, I thank You for creating me with special gifts and abilities, and for placing me in the Body of Christ with a special function.  Thank You, Lord Jesus, for assigning responsibilities to me in Your kingdom.  Help me, Holy Spirit, to be faithful to my Lord.  I choose to not compare myself to others, but to think with “sound judgment”, since God has given to me my own measure of faith and abilities. (Rom. 12:3,4)

January 19 (Read: Luke Chapters 20 & 21)

“But keep on the alert at all times, praying in order that you may have strength to escape all these things that are about to take place, and to stand before the Son of Man.” (Lu. 21:36 NAS)

While speaking of the difficult times to come, Jesus tells the disciples that a way of escape is possible, but it is not as we think.  Rather than hoping to be taken away, they are to pray for strength.  The way of escape is amid the troubles.  “By your endurance you will save your lives.” (Lu. 21:19).  When the Nazarites wanted to throw Jesus off the edge of a cliff, He escaped by passing through their midst. (Lu. 4:30).  In a vision concerning the end-time revival, the evangelist Tommy Hicks saw believers anointed mightily by the Holy Spirit.  He writes, “All over the world these people went, and they came through fire and through pestilence, and through famine.  Neither fire nor persecution, nothing seemed to stop them.  Angry mobs came to them with swords and with guns.  And like Jesus, they passed through the multitudes and they could not find them, but they went forth in the name of the Lord, and everywhere they stretched forth their hands, the sick were healed, the blind eyes were opened.”  Their escape was that the troubles could not stop them.  They had the strength to endure and to pass through.

Lord Jesus, we pray that we may have strength to endure anything that tries to stop us from serving You.  Fill us with Your Holy Spirit, that we may have power to be witnesses.  Work with us, Lord, with miraculous signs as we go forth in Your name. (Acts 1:8; Mk. 16:20)

January 20 (Read: Luke Chapter 22)

“Pray that you may not enter into temptation.” (Lu. 22:40 NAS)

These are the words Jesus spoke to the disciples in the Garden of Gethsemane.  Not long before this, He had warned Peter that Satan had requested permission to sift him like wheat.  Would Peter’s experience in denying Christ been different had he prayed in the garden instead of slept?  Sometimes we must fail before we succeed.  The enemy demanded permission to sift Peter, so he must have had legal right to.   Instead of refusing, Jesus prayed that his faith would not fail.  Temptations will come, but they only come in areas in which we are weak.  The way to overcome temptations is to be alert, and to stand in grace by faith.  If we fail to pray, we will not recognize the tactics of the enemy, and if we try to stand in our own strength we will not be able to resist.  “God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape also, that you may be able to endure it.” (1Cor. 11:13).  If we pray before temptation comes, we will be able to endure it, and with the strength we obtain, we will be able to strengthen others.

Father, I pray that You would not lead me into temptation, but that You would deliver me from evil.  Christ is me is greater than the enemy who prowls around looking for someone to devour.  Thank You for grace to help in my time of need.  As I stay in fellowship with You, Holy Spirit, alert me to the schemes of the enemy and show me the way to victory.

January 21 (Read: Luke Chapter 23)

“And He said to him, ‘Truly I say to you, today you shall be with Me in Paradise.” (Lu. 23:43 NAS)

The sacrifice of Jesus on the cross was so complete that even one of the robbers crucified next to Him could be saved.  Our salvation is not based on our works, it is a gift, given freely because of God’s goodness.  There is more to eternal life, however, than just going to heaven.  We will receive rewards according to our labours (1Cor. 3:8).  Yet, even with the promise of rewards, we must be careful how we work.  It must be Christ doing the works through us.  This does not mean that we are not participating in them; otherwise, how could we be rewarded for them?  I like the way Paul explained it: “I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and delivered Himself up for me.” (Gal. 2:20).  He lives in me, but I also live in Him, by faith.  I do the works as an extension of Him; I am a member of His body.  I have His life in me, and the way I live in Him is by walking in the Spirit.  “If we live by the Spirit let us also walk by the Spirit.” (Gal. 5:25).

Thank You, Lord, for coming into my life and making me one with You.  I yield to You, Holy Spirit.  Thank You for wisdom and strength.  Father, You have made me a steward of your manifold grace.  Let what I say be inspired by You, and what I do be supplied by Your strength. (1Pe. 4:10.11)

Two-Year Bible Reading Plan: Old and New Testament Balance (Week 2)

This plan provides a good balance between Old Testament readings and New Testament Readings because it guides you through the New Testament twice as you read through the Old Testament once.  To allow time for reflection, it follows a two-year plan.

Every week I will post the readings for that week and add the devotionals as time permits.  If you wish to print a copy of the plan without the devotions, you can find copies of it in pdf format at the link below.  I like to print and use them as bookmarks in my Bible.

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1TQs0_oejNJO8HInVlN1JmSClMhWcEbiG?usp=sharing

The readings for this week are included below.

January 8 (Read: Luke Chapters 4 & 5)

“And Jesus returned to Galilee in the power of the Spirit…” (Lu. 4:14 NAS)

When Jesus went into the wilderness, He was already “full of the Holy Spirit”, but He came out in the power of the Spirit.  As He was, so were we promised to be filled with the Holy Spirit, but that experience alone does not release through us the power of the Spirit.  After receiving the Spirit, we must be yield to Him. 

Jesus was led into the wilderness by the Holy Spirit for forty days.  It is a common interpretation to view the temptation by the devil as covering the entire forty days, but that is not true.  It is not until after He was hungry that the devil came to tempt Him.  I believe the first four weeks were spent in fellowship with the Father in the Spirit.  The baptism in the Holy Spirit was Jesus’ anointing for ministry, but before He could begin His public ministry, He needed to spend some time with the Father in prayer.  Jesus had to strengthen Himself in the Spirit before being tested, and to prepare for His public ministry.  More important than overcoming the devil was developing His ability to hear and see what the Father was doing.  We forget, sometimes, that Jesus put aside His divinity to take on a human form.  He lived on this earth as a man without sin, anointed with the Holy Spirit to fulfill the ministry of the Messiah.  So important, to Jesus, was the need to spend time with the Father, that even after His time in the wilderness, He continued to spend many nights alone in prayer.  His bread was to do the will of the Father.

Jesus, if You had to spend time in communion with the Father, how much more do I need to fellowship with You and our Father.  You demonstrated to us what it means to be full of the Holy Spirit.   You only did what You saw the Father do.  We also want to only do what we see You do.  Help us to live in the fulness of our calling, full of the power of the Holy Spirit.

January 9 (Read: Luke Chapter 6)

“A pupil is not above his teacher; but everyone, after he has been fully trained, will be like his teacher.” (Lu. 6:40 NAS)

It is encouraging to hear Jesus say that we can be like Him.  He spoke these words while giving instructions that seem too difficult for us to follow.  How can we, in our own strength, bless those who curse us, give to all who ask, love our enemies, etc.  The possibility of being like Jesus is found in the words “and you will be sons of the Most High”.  All who receive Jesua receive the right (the power) to become children of God (Jn. 1:12).  This power is in the fulness of grace that comes to us through Him (Jn. 1:14-16).  We can be partakers of the divine nature, through faith, because “His divine power has granted to us everything pertaining to life and godliness” (2Pe. 1:3,4).  Those promises are not just for this natural life, but also for godliness, which is our devotion to God.  These verses give us hope, but Jesus has made a way, through the heart, for this hope to become our reality.  As we open our hearts to Him and His words by faith, we are transformed into His image.  “The good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth what is good…” (Lu. 6:45a).

Jesus, I thank You that it is possible to become like You.  Your grace is sufficient for me to obey Your commandment to love.  Your words give me hope.  Help my faith turn this hope into what is seen.  I treasure Your presence and Your words in my heart.

January 10 (Read: Luke Chapter 7)

“I say to you, not even in Israel have I found such great faith.” (Lu. 7:9 NAS)

Seeing someone with great faith made Jesus marvel (vs. 9).  We have heard of little faith, and strong faith.  What was it about the centurion’s faith that made it great?  First, we find that the Jewish elders had a high regard for him since he loved the Jewish people (vs. 5).  Certainly, Jesus was aware of his generosity, just like that of the centurion in the book of Acts: “Your prayers and alms have ascended as a memorial before God.” (Acts 10:4).  Next, we discover that even if the Jewish elders felt he was worthy of having Jesus come to his house, the centurion did not feel that way.  Besides generosity, he had humility.  These are valuable traits, but they are still not what made his faith great.  The greatness of his faith was in recognizing spiritual authority.  He believed that Jesus could heal his servant by just speaking from a distance (vs. 7).  Too often we need to see or hear something to help our faith.  The centurion did not need for Jesus to lay hands on his servant to heal him.  “For I too am a man under authority, with soldiers under me” (vs. 8).  In humility and faith, the centurion understood that to be “in authority” you also had to be “under authority”.  He felt he had authority to ask on behalf of his servant, and he recognized that Jesus had authority to heal because He was sent by God.  His faith did not need anything more than for Jesus to “just say the word, and my servant will be healed”.

Heavenly Father, help us to have great faith.  The centurion understood the authority of the One sent by God.  We also want to believe, simply because You say it, not because of any accompanying signs.  Jesus, all authority has been given to You in heaven and on earth, so we can go in the authority of Your Name.  Help us, Lord, to understand that we can be “in authority” because we are “under authority”.

January 11 (Read: Luke Chapter 8)

“Therefore take care how you listen; for whoever has, to him shall more be given; and whoever does not have, even what he thinks he has shall be taken away from him.” (Lu. 8:18 NAS)

Every word the Lord speaks to us carries with it a responsibility to bear fruit.  We must be careful how we receive the spoken word.  Unless we provide it with a good and honest heart, it will not grow to maturity.  A seed that is planted in good soil must also germinate before it grows.  In the same way, we must receive understanding for the words we receive (Matt. 13:23).  This understanding comes by revelation of the Holy Spirit as we meditate on what we hear.   To us has been given to understand the mysteries of the kingdom of God (vs. 10).  If we are faithful to bear fruit with what He gives us, we will be given more.  God rewards faithfulness.  The goal is not to obtain knowledge; it is to walk in love.  We are often too quick to share the understanding we receive, but that is not its primary purpose.  Yes, we should share with others from the treasure in our heart, but our first responsibility is to live it.

Thank you, Father, for Your Word which is living and active.  Thank you, Holy Spirit, for spiritual wisdom and revelation.  Thank you, Jesus, for Your life in us which is the Word bearing fruit.

January 12 (Read: Luke Chapter 9)

“If anyone wishes to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me.” (Lu. 9:23 NAS)

There are Scriptures, like the one above, that are foundational to our walk with the Lord.  If you are new to salvation, it is important to write Scriptures like these on your heart.  Even if you are familiar with them, it is always good to be reminded of them.  There is a cost to discipleship.  The preaching of the gospel is to make us disciples (Matt. 28:19), not merely converts.  We must deny ourselves; being willing to lose our life to save it.  We must also be willing to suffer for the sake of righteousness.  To bear our cross is not blind submission to everything the devil throws at us, like sickness.  As the apostles were learning, the preaching of the gospel included healing the sick.  Jesus went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil (Acts 10:38).  He did, however, endure persecutions, and as His followers, we must bear the same cross. 

Help me, Lord Jesus, to deny myself.  I reject every form of selfishness.  I choose to place the needs of others ahead of my own (Phil. 2:4).  I accept also to suffer for the sake of seeing Your kingdom extended on this earth.  You suffered rejection at the hands of men, and as Your follower, I can expect nothing less.  I thank You that You do not leave me to bear this cross alone, but when I am persecuted for Your name, I am comforted by the presence of the Holy Spirit (1Pe. 4:14).

January 13 (Read: Luke Chapters 10 & 11)

“Behold, I have given you authority to tread upon serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall injure you.” (Lu. 10:19 NAS)

This authority was not just given to the twelve apostles, but also to seventy others.  The same authority has been with His followers throughout history, but we have not always been walking in it.  The times I have seen it demonstrated the most is when we have been experiencing a move of the Holy Spirit.  I am not saying that the execution of this authority should only occur when there is an outpouring of the Spirit, only that we are more likely to respond in faith when the Spirit helps us.  I believe that the Holy Spirit is always present to help us, but we are not always sensitive to His voice.  In these last days, we will come into a time where the manifestation of God’s Spirit will be greatly increased upon this earth, as a latter rain before the great and final harvest.  When we see that “even the demons are subject to us”, we need to guard hearts.  It is easy for pride to deceive us into thinking that we are doing the works, rather than God through us.  We should always keep our focus on the Lord, rejoicing that our name is written in heaven.  God loves us, and we have come to know and to believe in His love (1Jn. 4:16).

Thank You, Father, for Your great love.  Lord Jesus, all authority has been given to You, and You have given me authority in Your Name.  Help me Holy Spirit to know how to walk in this authority, with a humble heart.  It is not because I have achieved something great on my own that demons are subject to me, but because my name is written in heaven.  I am know by You, Father, and my life is hidden with Christ in You (Col. 3:3).  

January 14 (Read: Luke Chapter 12)

“Do not fear; you are of more value than many sparrows.” (Lu. 12:7 NAS)

First, the Lord tells the disciples not to fear those who can kill the body, but rather to fear the One who has authority to cast them into hell (vs. 5).  Then, He tells them that they should not be afraid because they are precious to God (vs.7).  Should we, or should we not fear God?  The answer depends on where we stand.  If we are faltering in our faith, He warns us that the consequences of forsaking the Lord are worse than the pain of suffering.  Only judgment remains for someone who forsakes the mercy offered in Christ.  To fear God is better than to fear man, but even better is to not fear at all.  If we walk in the fear of punishment, we will keep away from sin, but we will not mature in love.  Psalm 111:10 tells us that the fear the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.  The beginning is not the fullness of it.  If we walk in love, instead of in fear, we will mature in godly character.   There is no need to fear God if we are walking in love because His love for us will cast away any fear of punishment (1Jn.4:18).  There is also no reason to fear what man can do to us because even if they were to kill the body, we would immediately be with the Lord.  To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord (2Cor. 5:8). 

Thank You, Father, that I am precious to You.  I have passed out of judgment into life.  Your love is rooted in my heart.  I commit to obey Your commandment to love.  I thank You, Lord Jesus, for Your precious blood.  I open my heart to receive Your mercy, Father.  Your grace is sufficient to help in my time of need. (Heb. 4:16)

Two-Year Bible Reading Plan: Old and New Testament Balance (Week 1)

For some time now, I have made this Bible Reading Plan available for download on my webpage.  This year, with the Lord’s help, I will write a daily devotional that follows the plan.

Many years ago, I tried following a plan to read the Bible in a year and I came across a problem.  Because the Old Testament has more books than the New Testament, I found I was spending too much time in the Old Testament and not enough time in the New.

The plan I developed provides a good balance between Old Testament readings and New Testament Readings because it guides you through the New Testament twice as you read through the Old Testament once.  To allow time for reflection, I made it into a two-year plan.

Here are more features of this plan:

  • The Old Testament books are arranged chronologically.
  • The Minor and Major Prophets are read in parallel with 2Kings, allowing them to be read in their historical settings.
  • The first reading of the New Testament is chronological, beginning with the Gospel of Luke.
  • In the second reading of the New Testament, the Gospels are read in parallel.

Every week I will post the readings for that week and add the devotionals as time permits.  If you wish to print a copy of the plan without the devotions, you can find copies of it in pdf format at the link below.  I like to print and use them as bookmarks in my Bible.

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1TQs0_oejNJO8HInVlN1JmSClMhWcEbiG?usp=sharing

The readings for the first week are included below.

January 1 (Read: Prov. 1)

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge.” (Prov. 1:7 NAS)

As we embark on a new year, it is beneficial to consider and recommit to what will ensure our success.  The knowledge we are promised in this verse is the spiritual knowledge that we find contained in wisdom.  “A wise man will hear and increase in learning, and a man of understanding will acquire wise counsel.” (vs. 5).  What is it that we must hear?  There is a beginning to wisdom and knowledge.  It is like a doorway we must go through if we are to “hear and increase in learning”.  Wisdom cries out, “Turn to my reproof, behold I will pour out my spirit on you; I will make my words known to you.” (vs. 23).  It is humbling to realize that before wisdom, there is wrong thinking.  We cannot just add wisdom to our wrong thinking; we must turn from it.  The biggest hindrance to spiritual growth is pride.  If we refuse to accept rebuke, we cannot turn to wisdom.  To walk in the Spirit, we must, with humility, receive the implanted word which is able to transform our soul (Jas. 1:21).

Lord, as I begin this new year, I turn to see what you are saying.  In humility I confess that Your thoughts are greater than my thoughts.  I renounce all thoughts that conform to this world, and I receive Your words, planted in my heart, as precious seeds.  Grant me understanding by Your Spirit, that I may bear for You the fruit of righteousness.

January 2 (Read: Prov. 2)

“For the Lord gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding.” (Prov. 2:6 NAS)

Wisdom is a gift!  We can ask for it with confidence because God gives generously to all men who ask in faith (Jas. 1:5,6).  He gives us wisdom by His word: “From His mouth come knowledge and understanding.”  To receive wisdom, we must be attentive to His voice, treasure His words in our hearts, and pursue an understanding of those words (vs. 1,2).    On the surface, this may appear as an activity of the mind, but it is more than that.  His words are “spirit and life” (Jn. 6:63).  Christ Himself is the Word of God (Jn.1:1).  When we receive wisdom, we receive Christ Himself, Who has been made to us “wisdom from God” (1Cor. 1:30).  In Christ we receive all the grace required to live a life pleasing to God.  We have His mind; we have His Spirit; we have His strength.  The way to walk in wisdom is to identify with Christ, in His death and resurrection.  This is more than just a way of thinking; it is an act of continual surrender and faith.  Since Christ is our life, we must die daily to the spirit of this world and live by faith in Him through His Spirit.

Father, Your Word says that I can ask for wisdom and You will give it generously.  I submit to the process of transformation that I may not be conformed to this world but be renewed in the spirit of my mind.  My desire is that I may walk in the wisdom that is found in Christ.

January 3 (Read: Prov. 3)

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.” (Prov. 3:5 NAS)

This verse is one of those transformational verses that should be meditated upon often.  When anxieties or fears try to overwhelm you, let your soul hear these words.  The word “meditate” in Joshua 1:8 means to ponder and to mutter.  As you ponder these words, let the Holy Spirit make them personal to you.  Speak to yourself in the name of Jesus.  The Holy Spirit will water the spoken word, as a seed in germination.  Remember, your spirit is willing, but your flesh is weak (Matt. 26:41).  See yourself as a spirit being with a soul, living in a body.  Your soul and body will come in line with your spirit when you confess God’s word from your heart.

Lord, Your words are life to me.  My spirit is in communion with Your Spirit.  With Your help, I rule over my body and soul.  You have said that You would never leave me or forsake me, so I will not be afraid.  In You, Lord, I put my trust.

January 4 (Read: Prov. 4)

“Watch over your heart with all diligence, for from it flow the springs of life.” (Prov. 4:23 NAS)

There is so much pressure on us to conform to the expectations of others.  Even if I care little about the opinions of men, and care greatly about what God thinks, I must guard against insincerity.  God desires truth in the inner man.  What matters more than what I think or say are the intents of my heart.  It is imperative that I know the condition of my heart.  If unbelief has lodged there, I will doubt God’s promises.  If selfish desires are hidden there, I will put my own interests above that of others.  If kindness and truth are not written on the tablet of my heart (Prov. 3:3), I will love with words, but not in actions and in truth (1Jn. 3:18).  When I ask God to search my heart, I can trust Him with what He shows me.  He loves me and will help me to be sincere.  From my heart, I want the life of Christ to flow out, not the works of the flesh.

Thank you, Father, that you have placed your desires within me.  You have given me a pure heart, a good conscience, and a sincere faith.  Help me Holy Spirit to guard my heart.  Give me sensitivity to your promptings.  Thank you for the ability to obey the instructions of my Lord.  I trust you, Father, to complete in me the good work that You have begun.  

January 5 (Read: Prov. 5)

“My son, give attention to my wisdom, incline your ear to my understanding.” (Prov. 5:1 NAS)

In wisdom we find many things: knowledge, understanding, discernment, discretion, etc.  This verse emphasizes again that even if God gives wisdom freely, we must give attention to it to possess it.  Wisdom is complete.  If we obtain knowledge, we also must obtain understanding.  It is not sufficient to just obtain knowledge; we must also have understanding.  When we ask God for wisdom, He opens to us a door.  We must enter in and sit at His feet.  We must “incline our ear” to understand.  The experience of His manifested presence is wonderful, but we must not be content with the experience alone; we must attend to what He is saying.  His Word must become His life in us, because wisdom has works.  “Who among you is wise and understanding?  Let him show by his good behavior his deeds in the gentleness of wisdom.” (Jas. 3:13). 

Father, I pray that you may give me a spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of You.  I pray that I may be able to comprehend what is the breadth and length and height and depth of Christ’s love.  I pray that I may be filled to all the fullness of God.  May Your Word in me cause me to become spiritually mature, to the measure of the fullness of Christ.  (Eph. 1:17; 3:18; 3:19; 4:13).

January 6 (Read: Luke Chapter 1)

“Do not be afraid, Zacharias, for your petition has been heard, and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son.” (Lu. 1:13 NAS)

When the angel appears to Zacharias, he is no longer expecting an answer to his prayers of long ago.  For how many years did he and Elizabeth pray to have a child of their own?  Now, as they have gotten older, he seems to have resigned himself to having no children.  God, however, has not forgotten his prayer.  Sometimes, our prayers are delayed because God has a greater purpose than our own expectations.  Do you have prayers that seem to have long gone unanswered, or promises that have not yet been fulfilled?  When I read this verse, I am reminded of prophetic words I have received concerning ministry which have not yet been fulfilled.  It encourages me to realize that God’s timing is not the same as ours.  The child Zacharias and Elizabeth would have was part of God’s plan for the salvation of the world.  His birth had to coincide with the birth of His Son.  God’s desire to bless Zacharias and Elizabeth was greater than what they could even imagine.  God does not love us any less.  As you meditate on His love, let Him refresh in you those dreams that seem to have passed you by.  It could be that the delay is because God still has preparations to complete in you, or in others involved in their fulfillment.

Father, I thank You that Your love is greater than what I can comprehend.  Refresh in me those dreams I have long ago asked and hoped for.  I believe Your desire to answer my prayers and to fulfill those promises is greater than what I have believed.  Please help me to be strong in faith.  I choose to again place my trust in You concerning these things.

January 7 (Read: Luke Chapter 2 & 3)

“But Mary treasured up all these things, pondering them in her heart.” (Lu. 2:19 NAS)

People have different responses to what God is doing around them.  The shepherds were at first terribly frightened by the appearance of angels, but they responded in faith and went to see the child Who was Christ the Lord.  Then, after seeing the baby, they went back glorifying and praising God.  All who heard their testimony wondered what these things could mean.  Mary did not wonder, she treasured these things in her heart.  To praise and glorify God is good, but is it a lasting response?  How often have we rejoiced in seeing God work, then when the feelings are gone, we begin to doubt.  When we treasure something, we hold it close so as not to lose it.  We take time to look at it, admiring its beauty.  This is what we must do with what we see and hear from God.  His words must be treasured in our heart.  As we ponder them, the Holy Spirit will help us to understand their full meaning.  When needed, He will bring those treasured promises back to our remembrance (Jn. 14:26).  In due season, those words will comfort and encourage us to hope and believe.

Thank You, Father, for those things You have chosen to reveal to us.  Your words are spirit and life; they accomplish what You have purposed for them.  Thank You, Holy Spirit, for helping us to understand and to be reminded of God’s promises.  You, Lord Jesus, are the Living Word.  In You, we have access to all the goodness of God.

Free and Not Deceived!

“If therefore the Son shall set you free, you shall be free indeed.” (Jn. 8:36 NAS)

For anything that God wants to give us, the devil will offer a counterfeit.  How can we avoid deception and walk in true freedom of the soul?  We have all struggled with habits or character flaws that leave us with feelings of guilt and shame.  The writer to the Hebrews calls these “the sin which so easily entangles us”.  Obviously, the goal is to overcome sin, but we must still deal with the feelings as we struggle with these imperfections.  How we do this will determine our experience with the freedom Christ has promised us.

Do you remember the peace and joy that came when you first accepted Christ as your Saviour?  These were the result of the freedom we have in Christ.  Is it not interesting that we experienced this freedom from guilt, even before we were rid of all our imperfections?  We did this by receiving the forgiveness for our sins.  Oh, the precious blood of Jesus!  How could we not fall in love with such a loving and merciful God?

As powerful as our first experience was, however, it only lasted for a while.  The problem was not with God’s gift, but with our response to those recurring weaknesses.  It was natural for us to try to correct our behaviour; and when that failed, we may have suffered discouragement.   Eventually turning to God for forgiveness, we again experienced freedom from guilt; the underlying principle being that we can only stand in true freedom if we stand in grace.  We came to salvation by grace through faith, and that is how we must continue to walk with God (Eph. 2:8-10).  In grace we have mercy and the ability to overcome weaknesses (Heb. 4:16).  It is important that we learn this lesson early in our Christian walk.  If not, we may start looking for a different way.

One of the methods Christians use to compensate for a lack of victory is to adopt religious practices.  This is what Paul rebuked the Galatians for: “Did you receive the Spirit by works of the Law, or by hearing with faith?  Are you so foolish?  Having begun by the Spirit, are you now being perfected by the flesh?” (Gal. 3:2,3).  Religion offers a false sense of spirituality, but it does little to produce true freedom.  The flesh is opposed to the Spirit so if people continue in this path, they will begin to oppose the work of the Spirit.  The religious spirit always tries to kill the prophetic.  “Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones those sent to her!” (Lu. 13:34).  Not only will they find themselves resisting the Spirit, but they may even become hypocrites, teaching others to do what they fail themselves to do, thinking that this will somehow justify their failures. 

The Scriptures tell us how to walk in true freedom: “But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh.” (Gal. 5:16).  Many are forsaking the false security of the religious system and pursuing again a life in the Spirit.  This is where the end-time Church will be found.  What happens, however, if we pursue spiritual things but fail to obtain victory over the enemy?  The religious spirit told believers that it was normal to sin and that we should not expect perfection.  Walking in the Spirit requires that we go past the cross; we must walk in the new life we have in Christ.  The same reasons that led us to replace faith with religion may also lead us to replace truth with lies.  We must recognize and deal with issues or we will continue to be “tossed here and there by waves, and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, by craftiness in deceitful scheming”. (Eph. 4:14).  Or worse, we may become one of those who, in the latter times, “will fall away from the faith, paying attention to deceitful spirits and doctrines of demons”. (1Tim. 4:1). 

The main reason why we might fail to obtain victory is a lack of faith (Jas. 1:6,7).  The Christian walk is first and foremost a walk of faith.  We must embrace the life of Christ by faith, as we identify with the death and resurrection of our Lord (Ro. 6:1-11).  The second reason why we fail to obtain freedom is wrong motives (Jas. 4:1-3).  It is not that we knowingly pursue selfish desires, but there may still be thought patterns in us that need to be renewed (Ro. 12:2).  The way to effectively exercise our faith for grace is to humble ourselves by renouncing every form of pride and submitting ourselves to God (Jas. 4:6-10).

We can still have problems with pride even if we are not proudful.  I first began to understand this problem in my life when the Lord showed that my fears were routed in the pride of life (1Jn. 2:16).  Yielding to fears was for me a form of self-preservation.  I have shared before how letting go this form of protection was a challenge for me, but the Lord helped me by encouraging me to replace my fears with wisdom.  Rather than withdrawing because of fears, I could move forward in God’s protection with wisdom.

Nearing the end of the Apostle Peter’s journey on earth, he warned believers about false teachers “promising freedom while they themselves are slaves of corruption” (2Pe. 2:19).  They preyed upon believers burdened by guilt or condemnation.  The false teaching that tells us to ignore sin because it belongs to death and religion, is a deception.  The way to true freedom is through humility.  Religion is not responsible for guilt or self-condemnation.  God does not condemn us so if we feel condemned, we are most likely passing judgment on ourselves.  This also is pride.  There is a difference between discerning our steps and passing judgment on ourselves because of our actions.  We must learn, as Paul did, to submit to God as our only Judge (1Cor. 4:3-5).  A proper response to the sins that trouble us will allow us to experience true freedom without deception.

The Obedience of Faith

“Through whom we have received grace and apostleship to bring about the obedience of faith among all the Gentiles, for His name’s sake.” (Rom. 1:5 NAS)

I have always been intrigued by the expression “the obedience of faith”.  The Apostle Paul only used this expression twice in his letters, and both times are found in his letter to the Romans.  The central principle of this letter is that the righteous must live by faith.  “Gentiles, who did not pursue righteousness, attained righteousness, even the righteousness which is by faith; but Israel, pursuing a law of righteousness, did not arrive at that law.  Why?  Because they did not pursue it by faith, but as though it were by works.” (Rom. 9:30-32).  This gospel is “the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.  For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith; as it is written ‘But the righteous man shall live by faith.’” (Rom. 1:16,17). 

Note that righteousness is revealed from faith to faith.  It is the righteousness of God “for us” and “in us”.  We come to salvation by faith, but we also live righteously by faith.  So important is the role of faith that Paul calls it our obedience.  It is not our self-effort that pleases God but simply believing Him.  If faith is obedience, then why does doing what is right matter?  Because “We must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may be recompensed for his deeds in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad.” (2Cor. 5:10). 

When James talked about completing our faith with corresponding action, he was not implying that what we begin in the spirit should be completed in the flesh (Jas. 2:22).  Our faith in the Lord Jesus Christ is completed by letting Christ live through us.  Paul exhorted the Roman believers to put off the deeds of darkness and to put on the Lord Jesus Christ as an armour of light (Rom. 13:12-14).  To the Galatians he said, “For all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ.” (Gal. 3:27).  To clothe ourselves with Christ is to put on His life; to live in Him as He lives in us by faith (Gal. 2:20).  Another way of explaining this is: “Walk by the Spirit and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh.” (Gal. 5:16).  This is a spiritual act of worship where we yield our members to the Spirit of God (Rom. 12:1).  As we clothe ourselves with Christ, we are the Bride making herself ready.  We are being clothed with fine linen, which are “the righteous acts of the saints” (Rev. 19:7,8). 

Faith is a spiritual substance, like hope and love (1Cor. 13:13).  Without faith we cannot walk in a manner that pleases God (Heb. 11:6), but it is also possible to have faith and not please God.  I like the comparison Paul made of our spiritual life as a ship on the ocean, driven by faith.  Without pure motives and a good conscience, it is possible to go shipwreck with our faith.  (1Tim. 1:19).   If I have all faith but not love, I accomplish nothing (1Cor. 13:2).  “For we through the Spirit, by faith, are waiting for the hope of righteousness, for in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision means anything, but faith working through love.” (Gal. 5:5,6). 

Faith becomes effective when it is relational.  We should know “Whom we have believed” and be convinced that He is able to fulfill His promises to us.  (2Tim. 1:12).  If we look to a loving God, we can obtain “everything pertaining to life and godliness, through the true knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and excellence.” (2Pe. 1:3,4).  When we have a prayer need, we should fellowship with Him in the Spirit, as we meditate on His promises.  The Holy Spirit will then bear witness in our heart concerning God’s will in our situation.  It is much easier to believe when we have an assurance of God’s will.  “And this is the confidence which we have before Him, that, if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us.  And if we know that He hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we have the requests which we have asked from Him.” (1Jn. 5:14;15).  By meditating on God’s promises we obtain hope, which we must have before we believe.   “Faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” (Heb. 11:1). 

It is very important to talk to God about our need, before we make the request, because once we pray the prayer of faith, we must consider it done (Mk. 11:23,24).  The things we believe for, however, may not immediately become visible.  In the book of Daniel, we read that some prayers are not answered right away; the answer may be delayed by spiritual opposition (Dan. 10:12-14).  Our response is not to continue asking, but to stand in faith as we wage war with praise and thanksgiving. 

There is so much more that can be said about faith.  The important thing is that it pleases God when we believe.  Remember that faith is relational.  It is not enough to know the promises, we need to know how He wants to accomplish them.  Jesus knew the Scriptures, but He only did what He saw the Father do (Jn. 5:19).  It is important that our prayers be motivated by love, but they must nevertheless be made in faith.  Our words and actions should also reflect the faith that is in our heart.  We should never end our prayer with “If it be Thy will” because that is not a statement of faith.  In our time of meditation, we yield before Him in surrender, but once we have His mind on an issue, our response should be to pray in faith.  There is a place for the prayer of surrender, but it is not the same as the prayer of faith.  As we grow in our relationship with Him, we become like Him.  As maturing sons and daughters, we please Him with the obedience of faith.