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Date Posted: 14:55:59 04/21/22 Thu
Author: c
Subject: Supplementary teachinig 4/2022

intouch Daily devtoion

September 07, 2021

Wait Patiently for the Lord

Psalm 40:1-5

Practicing patience is difficult because it often goes against our expectations and desires for immediate results. This is especially true when we are waiting on the Lord and His timetable doesn’t match our own. In such situations, it’s important to remember we can’t go wrong waiting for Him. Blessings will come in God’s good time when we refuse to run ahead of Him.

We ask the Lord for what we think we need, based on our limited information. But His understanding is infinite. At times God simply says no to our requests. In other cases, He may adjust our desire to match His. And sometimes He answers in a way that looks nothing like what we requested, but it will be exactly what we need. A submissive heart accepts the omnipotent Father’s gentle redirection, recognizing that He is always right.

Waiting patiently on the Lord strengthens our faith in Him: We learn to rest in His loving care and accept that whatever He gives us is best. It’s also a witness to others, who see His care and faithfulness to us and may choose to put their trust in Him as well.

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intouch Daily devotion

September 08, 2021

Praying to Our Sovereign God

John 15:7-16

Have you ever wondered why the Lord wants us to pray? After all, He controls everything, and His plans won’t fail because of our lack of intercession. Yet amazingly, through prayer, He allows us the privilege of being involved in His work. Prayer connects inadequate people to an all-sufficient God.

One of the reasons for prayer is that it teaches us to depend on God. That’s why Philippians 4:6 tells us to talk with our Father about everything. James 4:2 adds that sometimes the reason we don’t receive is because we haven’t bothered to ask. However, this doesn’t mean we’ll automatically receive whatever we request. God isn’t subservient to us—He works all things after the counsel of His will, not ours.

Another reason we should pray is because God wants us to bear much fruit. If we abide in Christ and His words abide in us, our requests will align with His will, and we’ll receive what we ask (John 15:7). Then our faith will be strengthened to trust Him in even greater ways. And the more we rely on Him to provide, protect, and guide us, the deeper our relationship with Him will grow.

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October 15, 2021

The Blessings of Inadequacy

2 Corinthians 4:7-15

Most of us assume that feelings of inadequacy are enemies to be subdued, but God uses our weaknesses to display His glory. Even though we love feeling confident and bold, this kind of self-reliance is the opposite of humility. Despite all his great knowledge and varied gifts, Paul knew he was not sufficient for the tasks the Lord had called him to accomplish. When he spoke of his ministry, the apostle said, “I also labor, striving according to [Christ’s] power which works mightily within me” (Col. 1:29).

Inadequacy reveals where we lack ability and drives us to dependence upon the Lord. He works in our weakness to accomplish His purposes in and through us. Therefore, we shouldn’t surrender to our failings by letting them hinder us from even trying to serve the Lord. Nor should we try to pump up our self-confidence with pep talks and self-affirmation. Instead, our inadequacies are designed to humble us so we’ll turn to the Lord for strength.

When we depend on Him in humility, “the extraordinary greatness of the power will be of God and not from ourselves” (2 Cor. 4:7). Then all the praise and glory go to Him.


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October 16, 2021

Relying on Our All-Sufficient God

2 Corinthians 3:1-6

Have you ever felt the shame of inadequacy? It’s humiliating when others see that you’re ill-equipped for a task or lacking in knowledge on an issue. That hardly sounds like a positive thing, but it can be a blessing if you respond the right way.

Let your inadequacy drive you to God. Spend time in prayer and pour out your heart to Him. Draw comfort from His Word as you’re reminded of His care for you. He hasn’t abandoned you. On the contrary, God is using this humbling process to teach you two important lessons: to trust Him to work through your weakness and to depend on the power of His Holy Spirit.

Insufficiency reminds us to stop trying to do God’s will in our own strength. If we proceed down the path of self-sufficiency, we’ll become overwhelmed and burdened. But when we admit our inadequacies to God, the burden is lifted and we discover the contentment that comes with a dependent, trusting heart.

The Lord is sufficient for every need, and His strength is demonstrated in our weakness. If there’s an area in our life that we’re trying to manage on our own, let’s remember to relinquish control and depend humbly on the Lord. We can depend on Him to make us adequate.

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October 28, 2021

Our Growth as Christians

Galatians 2:20

What is the goal of the Christian life? Romans 8:29 expresses it this way: “For those whom He foreknew, He also predestined to become conformed to the image of His Son, so that He would be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters” (emphasis added). This is called sanctification, and it has several stages.

First comes salvation—our redemption from sinfulness through Jesus’ atoning sacrifice. What results is forgiveness of sin, which lets us have a relationship with God.

Next, God gives us opportunity to serve. We were created to do good works in Jesus’ name (Eph. 2:10).

Then comes frustrated inadequacy. This is a necessary part of the journey and can last varying amounts of time. Though difficult, this phase is beautiful because it leads us into total dependence on Jesus, which is the best part of our spiritual life. And it is what brings us closer to our ultimate goal: becoming a reflection of Christ.

Sadly, many Christians don’t reach a point of complete reliance on the Lord. The apostle Paul reminds us to fix our eyes on the goal of maturity in Christ (Phil. 3:14). Learning to die to self is painful, but ironically, it’s the only true way to life.

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October 18, 2021

The Pathway of Faith

Genesis 12:1-9

Scripture says that we are to walk by faith, not by sight (2 Cor. 5:7). That means we’re unable to know what’s ahead but can trust the God who does. Abraham is a prime example, and we should follow in his steps. When called to leave his country and family to go to a land God would show him, Abraham obeyed. Hebrews 11:8 adds, “He left, not knowing where he was going.”

That’s basically a summation of the Christian life. Each day we face the unknown, but we trust the Lord to guide us. Since we don’t know the particulars, our walk with God can seem perplexing. That’s when we’re tempted to rely on our own feelings, perceptions, and reasoning. But sometimes He places us in situations to teach us to trust Him even when we don’t know where we’re going and cannot see the outcome.

The Lord wants us to lay down our own ways of figuring things out and instead to walk by faith. That may sound risky, but here’s why it’s absolutely reasonable: The One leading us has complete knowledge of the future and the power to orchestrate all events to achieve His good purposes in our life.

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November 10, 2021

The Grace to Keep Going

2 Corinthians 12:7-10

Would you rather be rescued from suffering and affliction or be given the grace to go through them? Our natural inclination is to escape. That’s why Paul pleaded with the Lord to remove his “thorn in the flesh” (2 Cor. 12:7-8). But when he understood what God was doing through it, he gladly accepted his weakness. That’s because Paul saw the value of relying on God’s all-sufficient grace and having Christ’s power dwell in him.

Logically, you’d think that the Lord would want to make Paul’s life easier so his ministry would be unhindered, but that was not His priority. God’s goal was to humble Paul so his ministry would not be ruined by pride and self-reliance.

Perhaps you’re struggling with your own “thorn” right now, when all you see is the pain and difficulty. And since God’s purpose isn’t obvious, you keep asking Him to rescue you from the situation. Maybe it’s time to begin asking Him for the grace and strength to endure. It’s through your weakness that the Lord proves Himself strong in your life. His goal is not your comfort but spiritual transformation—along with your increased trust and complete dependence upon Him.

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A Necessary but Challenging Lesson

Patience is a fruit that can be difficult to exhibit, but we must always seek God's will and wait for His perfect timing.

December 13, 2021

Psalm 27:7-14

There are many lessons for us to learn in the Christian life, and one of the hardest involves patience. When we have a problem, we want an immediate solution, but that’s not always God’s will for us. He wants us to trust Him and leave the timing in His hands.

As you read today’s passage from Psalm 27, notice that David coupled the admonition to wait upon God with encouragement to be strong and courageous (Psalm 27:14). In our culture, people are quick to act because they’re afraid of missing out on something; it takes courage to go against this trend and be still while the world rushes past. There are even many believers who have bought into that attitude. Instead of waiting for God’s timing, they make a move and ask God to bless it.

Are you asking the Lord for guidance or provision but hear only His silence? Jesus addressed this issue when He said that if we seek first God’s kingdom and righteousness, then whatever we need will be provided (Matt. 6:33). As you wait, ask the Lord for His peace and patience. Then trust Him to take care of any remaining needs in His perfect time.

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intouch.org Daily devotional February 8, 2022


Spiritual Shortsightedness

When we seek the Lord’s counsel in our decision-making, we’ll prioritize eternal concerns over temporal ones.

Genesis 25:19-34

The problem with being nearsighted is the inability to see what’s far away. Though we usually think of this as strictly a physical problem, it’s also possible to be spiritually short-sighted (2 Pet. 1:8-9). That is exactly what happened with Esau in today’s passage. He traded his birthright and all its long-term blessings for the immediate physical gratification of a bowl of soup.

That sounds very foolish to us, yet we too can give up something excellent for temporary satisfaction. This happens when we give higher priority to our desires, appetites, or emotions than to the Lord. If our focus is on the temporal rather than the eternal, we’ll make decisions based on today’s needs and desires without considering tomorrow’s consequences. In doing so, we sacrifice lasting treasure for fleeting satisfaction.

To guard against what happened to Esau, avoid making important decisions in times of physical, emotional, or spiritual weakness. Take time to ask the Lord for guidance, and let biblical principles guide your thinking. Remember, self-control is a virtue God highly values (Gal. 5:22-23; 2 Pet. 1:5-8). So view every temptation to satisfy desires quickly as an opportunity to practice self-restraint and trust God.

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intouch.org Daily devotional February 25, 2022

The Empowering Emotion of Joy

True joy comes not from circumstances but from our relationship with Jesus.

John 15:9-17

Jesus promised us His joy, but at times it can evade us. There are some important things to understand about this spiritual fruit. As we saw yesterday, the Holy Spirit is its source. And being supernatural in nature, divine joy exists independently of our circumstances. Happiness, on the other hand, comes from external causes, is an earthly in character, and increases or decreases as events change.

Holy Spirit-developed joy comes when we:

• Focus on our relationship with the Lord. Because of Jesus, our sins are forgiven and we are forever His. Nothing can separate us from our Savior.

• Observe His transforming work in others. Notice what God is doing around you: rescuing people from bondage to sin and transforming them into His likeness.

• Serve those He sends to us. Our obedient, loving care for others brings spiritual joy.

• Meditate on God’s living Word. Through Scripture, we receive an outpouring of His love and precious truths on which to build our lives.

Take a few minutes to contemplate the wonder of your new birth, share someone’s spiritual joy, obediently serve another person, or receive guidance from God’s Word. Then check your emotional barometer. Are you singing hallelujah yet?

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intouch.org Daily Devotional February 26, 2022

Spiritual Joy

Focusing on Jesus is the key to joy, even during times of distress.

Philippians 1:1-18

The apostle Paul demonstrated that spiritual joy is possible even during times of adversity. In fact, his epistle to the Philippians, written during a time of imprisonment, is known for its repeated references to rejoicing. But have you ever felt as if you’ve lost your joy? This can happen for several reasons:

• Wrong focus. By centering on Jesus, Paul was able to praise God despite harsh trials. Concentrating on difficulties can cause delight to vanish. Refocus through praise to bring it back.

• Disobedience. Sin steals our joy because it disrupts our fellowship with God (Ps. 66:18). As we receive His forgiveness and obey Him, joy returns.

• Regret. We crowd out gladness when we dwell on past mistakes. The Lord has forgiven us (1 John 1:9). He wants us to choose to live in His grace and move ahead.

• Fear. Joy and fear cannot coexist. We are called to live by faith, asking God to meet today’s needs and trusting Him with the future.

• Others’ suffering. How can we rejoice when others hurt? Romans 12:15 says we’re to weep with them, but we are also to offer the hope of God’s presence, power, and provision.

A consistently downcast spirit is a poor witness for hope (Ps. 42:11). Fix your gaze on the Savior and let His joy become yours. Then it can overflow to those around you.

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intouch.org Daily Devotion March 28, 2022


Willing to Wait for God’s Way

It's easier to wait on God when we remember that His plans are best.

Lamentations 3:24-26

Many Christians struggle with waiting. There are a lot of things we want right now—and we usually have the ability to follow through on our desires. In fact, that’s what the entire credit card industry is all about: Have it now; pay later. But possessions aren’t the only thing we’re in a rush for. Some people are so eager to be married that they make an unwise choice regarding a mate. Others are in such a hurry to become successful and well-respected in their career that they look for shortcuts to get ahead.

So why might the Lord have us delay? One reason is to protect us. Those who can’t say no to their own desires end up enslaved to them. God wants us to be mature believers who have the character and self-restraint to wait for Him to provide in His perfect time. Because our heavenly Father is omniscient, He alone knows what’s best. You can trust that if He asks you to hold off, He has something more wonderful in mind than you could ever provide for yourself.

Does anything seem to have a power over you? If so, it may be an area that requires the practice of self-restraint. Yield to the Lord and submit your desires to Him. Then, begin saying no to temptations as you wait for God to reveal His will for your life.

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intouch.org Daily devotion March 27, 2022

Sunday Reflection: Onward!

When we stop to review God's faithfulness in our life, the path forward doesn't seem so scary.

To get the most out of this devotion, set aside time to read the Scripture referenced throughout.

Last Sunday we discussed the importance of remaining aware of the present. But it’s also important to remember our past—both the bitter and the better. Think back to the times you have failed or fallen short. How did God show up? What did you learn through those experiences? How have you grown as a result? (See 1 John 4:4.)

Also consider your many victories as well as other ways God has blessed you over the years. Count them on your fingers and toes. Write them down. Name them all and celebrate them for what they are—evidence of God’s faithfulness to you in things both great and small (Ps. 34:8-10).

By focusing on both the plusses and the minuses, you can see the path forward more clearly. After all, the goal isn’t to get back to “the good old days” or relive the past (with the mistakes removed). You’re going forward, toward something altogether new and lovely. Ask God to help you stay focused and trust in Him.

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Jack Graham Powepoint Signing your life over to God 3/31/22

“Father, if You are willing, remove this cup from Me. Nevertheless, not My will, but Yours, be done.”

--Luke 22:42

I used to have some little Scripture plaques and sayings hanging around in my office, and one that I especially liked said this: “Lord, Thy will anywhere, anytime, any cost.” And let me tell you, that prayer is both the most dangerous and the safest prayer you could ever pray.

That prayer is dangerous because you don’t know where God will lead you. He may have a completely different will for your life that He wants to reveal to you. But it’s also very safe because there’s no better and more secure place to be than directly in the will of God.

In life, there are big decisions and small decisions everyone has to make. But no matter how big or how small the decisions you may face, you should always ask yourself first what God wants for you. From something as small as deciding whether or not to dwell on a sinful thought or something as big as a career or family decision, it’s important to think, “What does God want me to do here?”

I want to challenge you to take a blank sheet of paper, sign it at the bottom, and tell God, “You fill in the blank with whatever You want from me.” And allow Him to speak to you about some of the decisions you’re facing today. God desires nothing less than a complete commitment of your life to Him because He knows that’s where real life will be found!

SIGN your LIFE OVER TO GOD AND ALLOW HIM TO GUIDE your EVERY STEP!

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intouch.org daily devotion April 9, 2022

The Way of Faith

Faith enables us to follow God, obey Him, and endure hardship.

Hebrews 11:23-29

Moses was an important leader of the Hebrew people, and many consider him an Old Testament hero. He was called to do great things with the Lord’s help, and he encountered the presence of the Almighty in intimate ways. But all of his amazing feats were possible only because of his faith.

Today’s passage is part of what’s known as the Bible’s “Hall of Faith.” Those honored in this chapter believed God and demonstrated their trust with obedient action. James 2:14 suggests that all genuine faith results in action, and that’s true for us as well.

Walking by faith does not mean we’re on an easy path. It can include hardship and even persecution. But when we remain true to the Lord through it all, our faith is proved genuine and we grow in Christlikeness.

Are you willing to rely on God’s strength in your weakness? Do you believe He will empower you to stand firm if you face adversity? The Lord responds to faith by enabling us to endure difficulty, demonstrating His power in our weakness, and providing contentment and joy in the midst of suffering.

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Turning Point devotional 4/11/22

What Is Already Yours

Do not fear, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the Kingdom.

Luke 12:32

There is a story told of a Texas rancher—years before the modern oil boom in that state—who was barely scraping out a living from his arid land. Near the end of his life, his fortune changed when oil was discovered on his land, and he became fabulously wealthy. He didn’t know that he already possessed everything he would ever need.

Recommended Reading:
Romans 8: 31 – 32

One of Jesus’ most well-known teachings is on worry over provisions (Matthew 6:25-34). The teaching is summarized near the end with the admonition to “seek first the kingdom of God”, and all that we need will be provided (verse 33). But in Luke’s version of the same teaching, an additional insight from Jesus is recorded: “Your Father has chosen to give you the Kingdom” (Luke 12:32, NASB). We have been made participants in God’s Kingdom and all its resources, yet we often find ourselves worrying about daily provisions. Pursuing what we already have (God’s Kingdom) leads us to find what we need.

If you have received the gift of Christ, you have also received the gift of all you will ever need (Romans 8:31-32).

The best way to prepare for tomorrow is to seek God’s Kingdom and righteousness today.

John Blanchard
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Deborah Pegues – 30 days to a stronger and more confident you

(summarized teachings from the book as spoken on Focus on the family )

https://www.focusonthefamily.com/episodes/broadcast/living-out-loud-embracing-your-confidence/

24:45


PEACE


Prioritize every aspect of life according to God's Word


Expect more from the Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ

– Psalms 62:5 my soul, wait silently for God alone, For my expectation is from Him

Acknowledge the Heavenly Father in everything you do - decisions

Cultivate an attitude of contentment – takes effort

Eliminate unrighteous behavior – it's a daily battle - there is an intimate connection between doing the right thing and experiencing the peace of God and not being insecure.

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Beside the Still waters 11/1/21

Give no room to satan

...After we prayed that Jesus would cast out the evil spirit, the young man said, "Pray again." We did this three times, and finally he said that he could feel the evil spirit moving out.

We must never give satan room as this young man did. If we give the devil our finger, he will take more...he appeals to our flesh and our mind in order to destroy our soul. So when he attacks us with evil thoughts, let's ask God for grace to think right thoughts. When impurity tempts our eyes to turn aside, let's look straight ahead (Proverbs 4:25).

If we are tempted to say something unkind, let's ask the Lord for loving thoughts. If we feel angry, let's be careful because it easily leads to sin. Even if we fall, let's repent and the Lord will forgive. No matter how satan tempts us, let's remember James 4:7: "Resist the devil, and he will flee from you." Thank God, we can overcome satan "by the Blood of the Lamb" (Revelation 12:11). And we can be "more than conquerors through Him Who loved us" (Romans 8:37).

Clemson Martin

If you want to avoid trading with the devil, stay away from his shop.

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intouch.org Daily devotion 4/13/22

Learning From Failure

We're bound to make mistakes in our journey with God, and we must respond with repentance.

April 13, 2022

Luke 22:54-62

Peter was a man of great faith and bold action, but his brash style sometimes led him to make humiliating mistakes. More than once, he probably felt like a failure rather than a faithful disciple.

I’m sure we can all relate when it comes to falling short of our own expectations. Learning to obey God is a process, and failure is a part of our development as humble servants. When we yield to temptation or rebel against God’s authority, we soon realize that sin has few rewards.

We’d all prefer to grow in our faith without any missteps at all, but we can’t deny that our failures are instructive. They teach us humility, which is an essential character trait for those who follow Jesus. To eliminate pride, it’s important to admit that we can’t do life on our own—we need a God whose ways and purposes are higher than ours.

The Lord doesn’t reward rebellion or wrongdoing, but He blesses those who repent and embrace chastisement as a tool for growth (Prov. 28:13). So make it your goal to be a pliable student in the Lord’s hands, and thank Him for using your failures to benefit you while bringing Him glory.

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Jack Graham Powerpoint 4/13/22

How to live your life with bold confidence

“As You sent Me into the world, so I have sent them into the world. And for their sake I consecrate Myself, that they also may be sanctified in truth.”      

--John 17:18-19

I want to ask you a question. If you knew beyond a shadow of a doubt that Jesus was in the next room praying for you right now, would it change your life? Would it change how you thought? Would it change your daily actions? Would it change your decisions?

I think if we’re honest with ourselves, we would live each and every day knowing no crisis is too great if Jesus is praying for us. But the truth is that Jesus is praying for you right now… interceding for you at the right hand of the Father.

The distance makes no difference. Whether Jesus is in the next room praying for you or in Heaven praying for you, it doesn’t matter. What matters is that He’s in perfect communion with the Father, and is presenting your every concern and need before Him.

Because Jesus is praying for you, you can face every day knowing you have the power to overcome any negative circumstance you face. So instead of living afraid, remember that if you’re in Christ, God’s power is released daily in your life because of Christ’s prayers for you.

LIVE WITH CONFIDENCE EVERY DAY BECAUSE OF CHRIST’S INTERCEDING PRAYERS FOR you.

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intouch.org Daily devotiona 4/14/22

Following God’s Schedule

Because God knows all things, we can trust that His timing and His plans are best.

April 14, 2022

Romans 11:33-36

People enjoy feeling in control of their own schedule, and it can be frustrating when things don’t go according to plan. Yet whoever truly desires to walk in obedience to God must cooperate with His time frame.

Consider how you pray about situations in your life. Without realizing it, you may be demanding that the Lord follow the schedule you’ve constructed based on your very limited human wisdom. Yet if we believe God is who He says He is, how can surrendering to His way not be to our benefit?

Unlike us, the Lord has complete knowledge about our world and the details of every individual life—past, present, and future. He understands every motive, whereas we can’t accurately judge even our own intentions. God also acts out of love for His people, and He’s sufficient to meet every need at just the right time.  

Submitting to God’s timetable requires faith and courage. Believe in the goodness of His heart and His plans, and determine to wait until He moves you forward. Then, as you follow His schedule, you will experience the joy of seeing a display of His great glory.

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intouch.org Daily devotion 4/19/22

Thoughtful Living

Looking for evidence of God every day reveals how He holds the entire universe together.

April 19, 2022

Psalm 25:8-15

Are you living thoughtfully or automatically? It’s easy to get up each morning, do our work, enjoy some relaxation or entertainment, and fall into bed each night without giving any thought to God’s involvement in our lives. But consider the benefits of keeping our spiritual eyes and ears open throughout the day—to see how God has blessed, guided, protected, and warned us.

Being aware of the Lord’s presence reminds us He is always in control and working to accomplish His good purposes. When we look for God’s footprints in our days, we discover the scope of His involvement in our life. Maybe He strengthened you for a task or opened a door of opportunity. Perhaps He guided your decisions or helped you respond in a compassionate way to a difficult person. Furthermore, if our ears are attuned to the Lord’s warnings and instructions, we’re less likely to repeat our mistakes.

Each night before you go to sleep, take some time to reflect on the day’s activities. Know that the Lord is constantly with you, guarding you and offering guidance. He wants you to understand life from His perspective as you rely on His wisdom and power to face any challenge.

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Power point devotional 4/19/22

The one thing that will change the world

If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing.

--1 Corinthians 13:1-2

Years ago, there was a lady in our church who was frustrated with her marriage. She was absolutely miserable. Her relationship with her husband was essentially non-existent, and she constantly found herself bursting out with anger against her children. She didn’t know what to do.

One day, she came to church and heard about the love of God in Christ Jesus – the One Who died and gave Himself for her. That day, she decided she was going to show that same love back to her family.

She went home changed. She started making an effort to really love her husband, even when she didn’t want to. She started loving her children with patience. All this was through the power of God inside of her, Who enabled her to show supernatural love even when she wasn’t “feeling it” emotionally.

One night as she was putting her daughter to bed, the little girl looked up and said, “Mommy, it’s been so nice at our house since we started loving Jesus.”

When you start loving others, beginning with your family, change happens. Commit today to loving others. Ask God to give you the power to express His love even when you don’t want to. Love others, and you’ll change the world.

LOVE others WITH THE LOVE OF CHRIST AND GOD WILL MOVE IN  their hearts USING you TO CHANGE them.

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Today in the Word

6/1/2021

A Vision of God

Roman author Phaedrus once quipped, "Things are not always what they seem; the first appearance deceives many." When the author of Psalm 73 looked around him, his first impression was of a world where the wicked flourish. ...

The Psalmist then examined his own life. He had labored to keep his heart pure before God (v. 13). Yet, his labor seemed to be in vain. He experienced only affliction and pain (v. 14). Didn't justice demand that the godly prosper and the wicked be punished? Didn't Scripture teach that truth (see Psalm 1)? This led him to a crisis of faith. He worried about defaming God before others and was deeply troubled in spirit (vv. 15 - 16).

The turning point comes in verse 17: "...till I entered the sanctuary of God; then I understood their final destiny." His first impression of the world had been deceptive. The reality was that the wicked were on "slippery ground" (v. 18). Their current prosperity only masked the reality that they were under God's judgment (vv 18 - 19). The Psalmist also realized he was not as forsaken as he had thought. God was with him and that was a better gift than any amount of wealth (vv. 23 - 24). Even in his material prosperity and physical health gave way. God was still his most precious possession (v. 26). This change in perspective came from an encounter with God in worship at the sanctuary (v. 17).

One of the reasons regular worship is important is that it helps us see the world properly. When we worship, we are reminded of God's sovereign rule, of the salvation He has achieved for us in Christ, and of our secure hope in His return.

Ryan J. Cook

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