VoyForums
[ Show ]
Support VoyForums
[ Shrink ]
VoyForums Announcement: Programming and providing support for this service has been a labor of love since 1997. We are one of the few services online who values our users' privacy, and have never sold your information. We have even fought hard to defend your privacy in legal cases; however, we've done it with almost no financial support -- paying out of pocket to continue providing the service. Due to the issues imposed on us by advertisers, we also stopped hosting most ads on the forums many years ago. We hope you appreciate our efforts.

Show your support by donating any amount. (Note: We are still technically a for-profit company, so your contribution is not tax-deductible.) PayPal Acct: Feedback:

Donate to VoyForums (PayPal):

[ Login ] [ Contact Forum Admin ] [ Main index ] [ Post a new message ] [ Search | Check update time | Archives: 1, 2, 3, 4 ]

[ Next Thread | Previous Thread | Next Message | Previous Message ]

Date Posted: 14:11:18 08/07/24 Wed
Author: c
Subject: Supplementary Teachings 6/2024 (UPDATED)

Messianic Bible 4/8/24 Count your double blessings!


Elisha remained loyal through times of apprenticeship and rejection.

At the end of the prophet Elijah’s ministry, his prophet in training Elisha asked Elijah if he could receive a double portion of his spirit so that he could likewise carry out a powerful ministry:

“When they had crossed over, Elijah said to Elisha, ‘Ask what I shall do for you before I am taken from you.’ And Elisha said, ‘Please, let a double portion of your spirit be upon me’” (2 Kings 2:9).

Scripture records that Elisha was indeed “doubly blessed,” as he carried out twice as many miracles as Elijah had.

But his blessing came after a certain number of trials, including rejection by his own mentor. Three times, Elijah asked Elisha not to follow him and three times Elisha responded by saying, "As surely as YHVH lives and as you live, I will not leave you" (2 Kings 2:2–6).

Elisha stayed close to Elijah, helping him and learning from him. When the time came for him to ascend to Heaven, Elijah granted Elisha’s request for a double portion of his spirit.

Our mentors on earth are not always so faithful as Elijah was to Elisha, nor are students always so faithful to their mentors, but we can count on our Divine Teacher, Deliverer and Lord, Yeshua (Jesus) to be always faithful with us!

Yeshua promised, “I will never leave you or forsake you,” and He desires that we will do the same for Him. He says to each of us:

“Remain in Me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in Me.” (John 15:4)

----=

intouch.org Daily Devotion 4/21/24

In a World of Quick, Slow Is Good

Let's give others—and ourselves—time to learn and grow.

April 21, 2024

Ephesians 4:14-16

Have you ever gotten into the far left lane on the highway so you can move just a little faster—only to have the cars in front of you slow down? Then you’re stuck between a divider wall on your left and even slower traffic on your right, feeling frustrated and annoyed.

Sometimes we want to treat our spiritual growth like that—jumping into that fast lane to “beat” everyone else to the goal and reach our destination sooner. We think that by reading a specific book or praying a certain way, we’ll grow more quickly and get to the next thing. But then the trials of life come, and without a strong foundation—one that’s built over time and with diligence—we quickly become overwhelmed and disillusioned.

In a world of quick, remember that slow growth is a good thing. Consider today’s passage, where Paul describes believers as children who must “grow up in all aspects into Him Who is the head, that is, Christ” (v. 15). We don’t expect children to do everything like adults. It takes time for them to develop the strength, coordination, and intelligence required for “adult” tasks. When we become Christians, the process is similar. No one becomes a fully mature believer overnight—nor does God expect us to. So let’s be patient with ourselves, take the time required to “grow up,” and celebrate when we see progress in ourselves.

---=

intouch.org Daily devotion April 22, 2024

Growing in God’s Love

Maturity comes from intentional daily decisions to follow Christ.

Colossians 2:6-7

Yesterday, we looked at the importance of slow, steady growth. In today’s passage, Paul tells us how to accomplish that growth: Be “firmly rooted and ... built up in Him and established in your faith ... overflowing with gratitude.” As we’re rooted in faith, we’ll become closer and closer to Jesus each and every day—not just loving Him more but also learning to love as He does.

Growth is a deliberate choice and a transformative process. Think of a tree. It slowly gets larger, adding layers year after year. Similarly, we grow in love through gratitude, patience, and intentional acts of kindness, compassion, and forgiveness. As we do, our relationships with others are impacted for the better.

For instance, when we speak the truth in love, we nurture a culture of grace and understanding (Eph. 4:15). Honesty without love can wound, whereas love without truth can enable deception. The balance is found in Jesus, Who perfectly embodies both requirements.

Take a moment to pause and reflect on your recent interactions. Were they marked by love? If not, perhaps you need to spend more time experiencing the love of your Heavenly Father. Then you will be ready to allow God’s example to be your guide in every conversation, relationship, and decision.

----=

intouch.org Daily devotion 5/22/24

Sorrow in Rejoicing

God understands the intricacies of the human heart and is faithful in all the confusing moments we face.

Ezra 3:10-13

Have you ever waited a long time and then finally gotten something you dearly wanted? Maybe you waited decades to see a close relative. Or perhaps you left your home country and never expected to get back there. How did you feel when the time finally came? Sometimes the reality at the end of a long period of expectant waiting feels bittersweet.

The destruction of the temple in Jerusalem and the exile to Babylon were traumatic. The Israelites waited 70 years for redemption and the chance to return. Now, in Ezra 3, the time is finally here—the people have returned and the temple foundation has also been laid. What was lost will be rebuilt at last. Can you imagine the relief, the celebration?

Yet there’s also weeping. The older generation remembers what stood before and knows all that’s been lost. This redemption, though cause for joy, stirs memories of what will never be again.

In this fleeting life, we have moments of rejoicing and of sorrow (Eccl. 3:4), and sometimes they intermingle in a way we can’t understand or ever hope to separate. And God doesn’t ask us to. He remains faithful to us in those moments—and a thousand more besides—until the day comes when He will wipe away every tear (Rev. 21:4).

----=

intouch.org 6/2/24

Daily Devotion

A Mosaic of Faith

Focus determines the trajectory of the mind and heart. So turn your eyes toward Jesus.

Hebrews 12:1-3

Mosaics are among the oldest and most beautiful forms of art. The process involves arranging glass tiles or small pieces of stone to create pictures or patterns. Some of these are quite elaborate, and to take in the full image, we must stand back and observe from a distance. If we step closer, we’ll instead see the individual glass or stone components. In other words, where we fix our eyes determines what we see.

How often, as we are growing in faith, do we experience something similar? During hardship, we tend to zoom in on the small pebble of our circumstances and often miss the bigger picture of God’s work.

Consider what might happen if we shifted our focus. In today’s passage from Hebrews, that’s just what the author encourages us to do—by looking to Jesus. Our Savior didn’t just endure the opposition of man and the shame of the cross; He overcame with joy. When we look to Him, our hearts will be strengthened and encouraged.

So let’s practice stepping back from the details of our trials and gazing at the Author and Finisher of our faith (Heb. 12:2). Then we will see a different image—one of gladness and victory.

----=

intouch.org Daily devotion 6/28/24

When God answers us

Job 42:1-16

(edited)

The story of Job raises an interesting question of its own: When we ask for God to answer us, are we content if He answers only with Himself? It's easy to fall into the trap of believing God hasn't answered us unless we receive everything we've asked for. But Job's example teaches us that how we respond when we feel ignored by God is the true test of our faith.

Whether the Lord directly answers our questions or not, what can we learn about His character?...

God is never absent, never overwhelmed or powerless. Though we may lose sight of this truth, we must remember exactly where He is when we suffer: He is with us.

----=

Today in the Word July 2024

Practical Theology

by Dr. John Koessler

p 4

The Key to hope

(edited)

...Faith is a kind of long-range vision that sees God's promises as fact before they become part of our experience. Faith is the key to hope.

If the dream is born of God's promises, the person of faith leans in to hope. We live by faith, not by sight (2 Corinthians 5:7). Faith is not wishful thinking or pie-in-the-sky sentimentality. It does not eliminate longing, but it does redirect it. Faith is what reality looks like to those who view it through the lens of biblical truth.

---=

Today in the Word

7/10/24

Fearful Prayers

(edited)

Genesis 32:1-22

Save me, O God, for the waters have come up to my neck. - Psalm 69:7

Have you ever been driven to pray because you were afraid? Some people view "save me" prayers cynically. We worry that our thoughts only turn to prayer when we are desperate, while the rest of the time God is forgotten. But scary situations also bring to the surface what we truly believe. "Save me" prayers show that we are completely dependent upon the Lord and need His help.

Ryan Cook

--=

Our Daily Bread

8/1/24

Visible traces of Jesus

(edited)

Our lives leave visible traces that point to who we are and Whom we represent. Although we struggle and aren't perfect, when people around us "swab" our lives, may they find visible traces of integrity and devotion to Jesus as He guides us.

Marvin Williams

How does your life reflect God's ways to others? What do you need to change to represent Him better?

---=

Our Daily Bread

8/14/24

God's generous love

(edited)


...During a military operation in the Middle East, McRaven has sadly acknowledged that several members of an innocent family were mistakenly killed. Believing the family was owed a sincere apology, McRaven dared to ask the heartbroken father for forgiveness.

...The man's response? He granted McRaven the generous gift of forgiveness....What enables us to have such compassionate, forgiving hearts? God's generous love....

Patricia Raybon

--=

Our Daily Bread

8/23/24

A repentant heart

(edited)

...Their problem was the people were making empty promises. Their heart wasn't in it. God doesn't want mere words; He wants our hearts. As Jesus said, "the mouth speaks what the heart is full of" (Matthew 12:34). That's why Jeremiah goes on to encourage those who would listen to break up the unplowed ground of their heart and not sow among the thorns (Jeremiah 4:3).

...When we sin, we must confess and turn from it. God doesn't want empty promises; He desires a life that's truly aligned with Him.

Matt Lucas

In what areas of your life do your words not match your actions? What patterns do you need to change?

--=

Our Daily Bread

8/26/24

Desert places

(edited)

When I was a young believer, I thought "mountaintop" experiences were where I would meet Jesus. But those highs rarely lasted or led to growth. Author Lina Abujamra says it's in the desert places where we meet God and grow...."God's goodness is meant to be received in the midst of your pain, not proven by the absence of pain."

It's in the hard places of sorrow, loss, and pain that God helps us to grow in our faith and become closer to Him. As Lina learned, "The desert is not an oversight in God's plan but an integral part of [our] growth process."...'

God was with Moses and the Israelites each step of their way through the desert, and He's with you and me in ours. In the desert, we learn to rely on God. There He meets us - and there we grow.

Alyson Kieda

----=

intouch.org Daily devotion

7/16/24

Seeing adversity from God's viewpoint

Isaiah 55:8-9

(edited)

When adversity hits you like a ton of bricks, it could easily cause discouragement. However, God's purpose in the hardship is not to destroy you? His goal is to stimulate your spiritual growth. In His great wisdom, the Lord knows how to take a situation and use it to transform you into the image of Christ.

...While some of the suffering we see and experience may seem senseless and awful, we have a very limited perspective and can't always understand what God is doing.

Our Heavenly Father sees every aspect of life, but our view is restricted to what's right before us....Though we'll never grasp the infinite mind of God, we can know His faithfulness and love.

When you can't understand God's ways, focus on the truth that He has perfect knowledge, wisdom, and power. Remember, the entire picture is clear to the One Who loves you more than you can imagine. This is a time to walk by faith, as perfect understanding will come only in Heaven.

----=

intouch.org Daily devotion

7/17/24

Developing faith through adversity

2 Corinthians 11:23-30

The apostle Paul spent over half of his life serving Christ, and yet he experienced suffering. It doesn't seem fair, does it? Why would God let one of His servants go through so much pain? We may be asking the same question because of issues we face today. Many believe the Lord should prevent hardship, but He doesn't necessarily do so in this life.

Maybe our reasoning is backwards. We may think faithful Christians don't deserve to suffer, but suffering aids in the development of faithful Christians. If we all had a life without trails or pain, we'd never really know God, because we'd never need Him. ...If what we believe is never tested by adversity, it remains head knowledge. The Lord give us opportunities to apply scriptural truths to the difficulties facing us, and in the process, we find Him faithful....

Trials can either build our faith or lead to discouragement. If you'll believe what Scripture says and apply its principle to your situation, your trust in God will grow. In that way, your faith will be strengthened through adversity.

----=

Beside the Still Waters

7/6/24

What is sanctification?

(edited)

Sanctification is both a state and a process.....

Sanctification will affect the thoughts we dwell on, the words we speak, the things we do, the places we go, and even our clothes and food. ...

Because of Christ's work, everything we need for godly sanctification is available to us...Too often the devil wins daily skirmishes with us by clouding our vision of what is really happening. We forget the importance of spiritual growth and the pursuit of progressive sanctification.

Neglecting sanctification can lead to living carelessly and drifting away from God...A sanctified heart will respond when the Spirit of God brings conviction of sin....

Denver Yoder

----=

Beside the Still Waters

7/16/24

Seeking Things Truly Significant

(edited)

And seekest thou great things for thyself? seek them not. - Jeremiah 45:5

In today's Bible reading, Jeremiah's scribe Baruch wrote about God's judgments on Judah as Jeremiah dictated them to him....

Later Baruch said, "Woe is me now! for the LORD hath added grief to my sorrows; I fainted in my sighing, and I find no rest" (Jeremiah 45:3). His peace was disturbed at the thought that he would likely suffer with the others in Judah when God's judgments fell. But God graciously told Jeremiah to assure Baruch of the Lord's protection through it all. God gave this promise only after asking Baruch the question, "Seekest thou great things for thyself?"

Consider how we feel when we read a verse like this: "Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution" (2 Timothy 3:12). Or when we realize that the nation in which we live may be ripe for God's judgement. Or when we foresee the possibility of some calamity befalling us. Are we fearful? If so, we may be seeking great things for ourselves.

As Christians we are "strangers and pilgrims" in this world (1 Peter 2:11). We seek the country called Heaven. We pursue things that are truly significant, even when times are tough and persecution afflicts. As a result, we can "rejoice and be exceeding glad: for great is [our] reward in Heaven" (Matthew 5:12).

Dennis Martin

---=

Beside the Still Waters

7/17/24

Singing our joys abroad

(edited)

...One Sunday as young Isaac walked home from church with his father, Isaac commented that the chants they had sung that day seemed dull. "When we sing like that, we never sing praise to Jesus, " he lamented. The elder Watts said wisely, "Son, why don't you mend the matter?"In the years that followed, Isaac Watts did much to "mend the matter."...

Watts tended to write majestic poems that are now considered hymns, whereas many later songwriters produced lighter works that we call Gospel songs. The different kinds of Christian music seems to fit the categories mentioned in Colossians 3:16: "psalms and hymns and spiritual songs."

Paul L. Miller

----=

Beside the Still Waters

7/21/24

Have Thine Own way Lord

(edited)

In 1907, Adelaide Pollard became discouraged while trying unsuccessfully to raise funds for a mission project. But she was greatly encouraged at a prayer meeting when another woman prayed, "it really doesn't matter what You do with us, Lord - just have Your way with our lives." That evening Miss Pollard meditated on Jeremiah 18 and then wrote the words of the song, "Have Thine Own way, Lord." As we freely allow the Master Potter to have His Own way, He will shape us into vessels that are pleasing to Him and useful to others.

Mark Schwartz

---=

Matthew 16:25 If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for My sake, you will save it.

The more a saint focuses on serving The Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ, the more a saint will mentally and emotionally submit how situations turn out in the hands of the Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ (even though a saint may still have to apply himself or herself prayerfully at times to take action, make decisions to some degree). A very measured prayerful process of discovery on how to hold on/let go - move forward - seek guidance on further advancement.


Ecclesiastes 3:6 A time to search and a time to give up as lost;

A time to keep and a time to throw away.

---=

Beside the Still waters

7/23/24

The Omniscience of God

(edited)

It can be disturbing for an unbeliever to think about the omniscience of God, but to a Christian it brings much comfort. Though surprises come into our lives, we must remember that our Lord knows all about them. "Bad things" are not always as negative as they seem. God does not need to figure out what to do next. When we go through hard times and look back, we can often see how everything worked out for our good - and we marvel that God knew all about it beforehand.

Glen Martin

---=

Beside the Still Waters

7/25/24

Fighting a losing battle

Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong - 1 Corinthians 16:13

(edited)

So Nehemiah courageously strove for a new reform in which God's Laws would be followed. But would this reform last? What would happen when Nehemiah again needed to leave? Seemingly Nehemiah fought a losing battle, not due to any fault of his own, but because the people were unwilling to obey God's Laws fully. How many battles do we fight and lose through a similar lack of commitment? Our efforts against a sin or bad habit will be a losing battle if we secretly cherish the thing we are supposedly fighting.

Kenneth Kropf

---=

Beside the Still Waters

7/27/24

But if not

(edited)

Daniel 3:17-18

Finally, we must be committed to obeying God even though things do not turn out as we thought they should, and God does not do what we thought He would...."But if not" expresses a commitment that will enable us to face whatever life brings, and will bring us safely through to our Heavenly goal.

Jeremiah Stoll

---=

Beside the Still Waters

7/31/24

Prayers of faith and unselfishness

(edited)

Sometimes we pray for rain when others want sunshine, or for sunshine when others want rain. God sends rain and sunshine on the just and unjust as He desires. God hears us if we make our requests according to His will. We are foolish to think that we can command God to do anything. He knows what is best for everyone, and He will answer according to His knowledge and will.

A man should give attention not only to what is good for himself but also to what is good for his neighbor.. If we have a picnic planned but our neighbor needs rain, perhaps we should pray for rain and make alternative plans for our picnic.

Lester M. Burkholder

---=

Beside the Still waters

August, month of harvest

8/1/24

To Christians, harvest time promises increased blessings that lead to more growth and a greater wealth of fruit. But if we become neglectful and allow the bad seeds of carnality to grow in our life, a bitter harvest will impoverish us. Let the natural time of harvest inspire us to careful sowing with a keen eye on the harvest....

Delmar Eby

---=

Beside the Still waters

8/11/24

Take time to be holy

(edited)

First of all, we should ponder our life, take inventory of what we are doing, and be honest with where we are. What are my interests, what are my motivations, what do I put first in my life? We should thoughtfully consider where the path we're treading will lead.

...sitting at the feet of Jesus and learning of Him how to be meek and lowly in heart.


Emery Hershberger

---=

intouch.org Daily dervotion 7/2/24

Failing to Listen to God

Accept and be thankful for godly correction; your life will be better because of it.

2 Timothy 4:1-4

In his second letter to Timothy, Paul charged his disciple to preach the Word and to correct and rebuke with great patience (4:2). A pastor could hardly have a more difficult assignment than this, because few people respond well to correction.

What you do when you are criticized is a good indication of the maturity of your faith. Scripture tells us that the “one who neglects discipline rejects himself,” whereas the “one whose ear listens to a life-giving rebuke will stay among the wise” (Prov. 15:31-32).

Every time criticism comes our way, we stand at a crossroads of possibilities for good or evil. Either we embrace correction and grow in maturity, or we reject it and start down the slippery slope described in 2 Timothy 4. In this passage, Paul outlines the behavior of those who become tired of reproof. He says they will reject sound doctrine and instead embrace teachings that “tickle” their ears (v. 3). Then they “will turn their ears away from the truth and will turn aside to myths” (v. 4).

We can’t afford to ignore truth, even when our critics are immature, ignorant, or tactless. Be mindful to stay attuned to God’s voice, regardless of the form it may take.

----=

PowerPoint with Pastor Jack Graham 7/3/24

God is speaking

“Be still, and know that I am God.”

-- Psalm 46:10

Many people think that the will of God is the same as fate. These people think, “Well, whatever will be will be.” Then there are others who look at life as fortune, and they say things like, “Oh, I was just lucky.” There are even some people in the church who believe that doing the will of God requires following some kind of formula.

But life isn’t about fate or luck, and it’s certainly not a formula. You see, God is personally and providentially working in your life and mine. He’s providing guidance and direction. He’s actively at work to perform His will in your life and mine. And God is speaking directly to us.

So let me ask you, do you recognize His voice? Are you taking time to listen to God?

When God spoke to Elijah (I Kings 19:12), it was in a “low whisper,” or what another translation calls, “a still small voice.” But listen, if you’re in a rush from the moment you get out of bed, it’s going to be hard to listen for God’s voice. That’s why the psalmist wrote, “Be still, and know that I am God.”

You see, it’s important to set aside time each day to be still in His presence, to ask for His help and direction, but even more importantly, to listen to what God is saying to you.

He longs to spend time with you. Learn His voice and follow Him.

---=

PowerPoint with Pastor Jack Graham 7/5/24

Finding the will of God

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths.

-- Proverbs 3:5-6

Do you have some important decisions to make? Maybe you need to make critical choices about a relationship, your career, or concerning your children.

Well, regardless of the choices that may be before you, God cares about the decisions you and I will make. And if we let Him, He will guide us to make choices that honor Him and that will bless us.

So let me share a few suggestions that can help you better understand the will of God:

First, our choices must align with the moral will of God. The Spirit will never lead us to do anything contrary to the Scripture, His truths, or principles.

Second, seek godly advice. Now, don’t seek just anyone’s opinion. Talk to people who know the Scripture, who are personally following God’s will, and who care about your spiritual faithfulness and growth.

Third, consider how your choice will impact your immediate relationships. We don’t live in isolation, so we must consider how decisions will touch our immediate family and dearest friends.

And fourth and finally, ask yourself, “What’s my motive for making this decision?” Your motive should be honest, sincere, and ultimately, needs to glorify God.

THE SPIRIT WILL NEVER LEAD us TO DO ANYTHING CONTRARY TO THE SCRIPTURE, HIS TRUTHS, OR PRINCIPLES!

---=

PowerPoint with Pastor Jack Graham 7/12/24

Setting the pace of your day

“Be still, and know that I am God.”

--Psalm 46:10

Before his death, my friend Dr. Adrian Rogers shared with me and a few other associates his personal approach to spending time with the Lord each morning. He used a simple acrostic based on the letters P-A-C-E to walk through four meaningful steps of time with God.

It’s a wonderful way for you to start your day with the Lord, and I hope you will try and make it a part of your daily time with Him. Here are the four steps to P-A-C-E:

“P” is for Praise:

Begin by praising God and thanking Him. Know that He is God! Praise Him for His goodness and for His love. Thank Him for meeting your needs.

“A” is for Acceptance:

Just hold your hands open before the Lord and say, “Lord, I accept what the Scripture says about me.” He is your Father, you are His child, and He loves you.

“C” is for Control:

Now just turn your hands over as if to bow gently before God, saying, “Lord, I give You control of my life.” Release every care to Him.

“E” is for Expectancy:

Now look with expectancy to God. Let Him buoy your confidence and your trust and your strength in Him. Tell Him that you trust Him with your life.

P-A-C-E yourself each morning and you will be blessed with the wonderful joy of God’s presence!

LET GOD SET THE PACE of your DAY.

----=

Today in the Word

8/15/24

Zophar: Twists and turns

Job 20:1-29

(edited)


But life does not always work the way we expect. God allows circumstances to enter our life for the purpose of developing our character and bringing Him glory. Like for Job, the reason is not always revealed for us. But we can trust Him to always do what is best.

Eric W. Moore

----=

Turning Points devotional August 2024

"Citius, Altius, Fortius - Communiter" Faster! Higher! Stronger! Together!

by Dr. David Jeremiah

(edited)


p 14

...when the Holy Spirit prompts us to start a Gospel conversation, we can be sure He will use it with people whom we may never see again. That's why the Bible tells us to make the most of every opportunity (Ephesians 5:16, NIV).


---=

Our Daily Bread

9/21/24

The ups and downs of life

(edited)

...Jesus lovingly prepared us for the ups and downs of our days. He said we'd experience "trouble" (John 16:33), but He also shared a message of peace. We don't have to be shaken by the trials we face. Why? Christ has overcome the world! Nothing is greater than His power, so we too can face whatever comes our way with "the mighty strength" He's made available to us (Ephesians 1:19).

Just like in Chutes and Ladders, sometimes life presents a ladder allowing us to happily ascend, and other times we tumble down a slippery slide. But we don't have to play the game of life without hope. We have the power of Jesus to help us overcome it all.

Katara Patton

----=

Our Daily Bread

9/30/24

"Small" miracles

(edited)

...The plaque has hung in our home for forty-five years, reminding us again and again that God is at work even in the small things. Paying a bill. Providing a meal. Healing a cold. All tallying up to an impressive record of God's provision.

...After returning from their Babylonian captivity, a season of slow progress began, and the Israelites grew discouraged. "Do not despise these small beginnings," God declared (Zechariah 4:10 NLT). He accomplishes His desires through us and sometimes in spite of us. "Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit," says the LORD Almighty" (v. 6).

When we grow weary at the apparent smallness of God's work in and around us, may we remember that some of His miracles may be "small." He uses the small things to build toward His greater purposes.

Elisa Morgan

----=

intouch.org Daily devotion

8/14/24

God's Grace and Holiness

Titus 2:11-12

One of the grandest expressions of the Gospel is found in Titus 2:11, where Paul tells us, "For the grace has appeared that offers salvation to all people" (NIV). How could there be any better news than that? What was invisible for many centuries has now come into view. Moreover, this grace has appeared for all people, not just a chosen few. It is what the apostle elsewhere calls "the power of God for salvation" (Romans 1:16).

With such power at our disposal, we're sometimes disappointed to find that grace, while beautiful, also involves pain. To most people, the word power suggests instant transformation and easy accomplishment. We often forget that grace is a school-teacher whose lesson plan includes very specific instructions.

In Titus 2:12, we learn what that pain entails. This teacher has appeared, "instructing us to deny ungodliness and worldly desires and to live sensibly, righteously, and in a godly manner." We can learn to say no to sin. W can learn what holiness is and find ways to acquire and display it. Only through God's grace can we even attempt to live a righteous life.

Such learning may take time. But progress in this school is just as much a tribute to God's grace as the instant changes that sometimes occur right after a person gets saved.

----=

intouch.org Daily devotion July 24, 2024

Waiting for God to Answer

Psalm 17:1-6

Yesterday we learned several reasons why a prayer might seem to go unanswered. Today, let’s think about times when our heart is right and our petition is in line with the Lord’s will but He remains silent.

God may be waiting because our longing for Him is in danger of being replaced by our desire for something else. Unless we’re careful, such desires could divert our attention from the Lord. So He could be waiting for our focus to return to Him.

At other times, God uses delays to prepare us for greater blessing or future service. He could be protecting us from consequences, or He may want to strengthen our trust. Strong faith means believing Him even in trials, persevering while awaiting an answer, and being confident that He always keeps His promises.

But keep in mind that unconfessed sin hinders our prayers. So if an answer seems “on hold,” it’s wise to examine ourselves. God promises to forgive us if we acknowledge and turn away from wrongdoing. That will remove any “static” blocking the communication line between us and our Father. Then we will be able to hear His voice and obediently carry out whatever He asks.

If you feel that sin is hindering your prayers, remember that God is merciful and will always forgive.

---=

intouch.org Daily devotion 6/1/21

God's good plans

Jeremiah 29:4-14

Has your life turned out as you expected? We would probably all have to answer no to that question. Only God knows the future and the plans He has for us. But even though we face unexpected disappointments and hardships, there is one thing we can know for certain - God's plans for us are always good (Romans 8:28).

Since the exiled people of Judah wanted to return to Israel as quickly as possible, they started listening to the bad counsel of false prophets. To correct this, Jeremiah told them to settle down and pray for the welfare of their place of residence. This was God's best for them at present and was a part of the good plans He had for their future restoration.

If we want to discover the Lord's best for our life, we must trust that His way is better than our plans and desires. We like to think that we can figure things out on our own, but there is truly no one who understands our needs better than He does. Our Heavenly Father sees what lies ahead and knows what He wants to accomplish in every situation of our life. And by spending time regularly in His Word, we'll find our trust in Him growing as we learn His ways and plans.

---=

intouch.org Daily devotion 6/2/21

Experiencing God's best

Isaiah 30:1-22

(edited)

We all want the Father's best for our life, but sometimes we get in His way....

When you have a decision to make, do you focus on God and His Word or on the problem you're facing? Are you quick to accept other people's advice before seeking guidance in the Scriptures? Although your plan may seem like the most promising option, if you left God out, it's very possible you've become an obstacle to what He desires for you.

When you are tempted to take matters into your own hands, remember the Lord's guidance: "In quietness and trust is your strength" (Isaiah 30:15). When you follow Him, He'll guide you to the optimal path for your life.

----=

intouch.org Daily devotion 6/26/21

How to know you're growing

Ephesians 4:11-16

(edited)

We all want to grow in our faith, but how can we measure progress toward spiritual maturity? Here's a short list of benchmarks to look for. We know it's spiritual fruit when:

- We become increasingly aware of our sinfulness and weaknesses. When I read biographies of godly men and women, it's clear that they don't "get better" with age and spiritual maturity. Instead, they become ever more sensitive to their dependence upon the Lord.

- We respond to sin with quick repentance. Failure to deal with sin is rebellion against God...As we begin to see the good results of dependence and repentance, our desire to obey intensifies, and the attraction of sin lessens.

- We recognize the potential benefit of struggles. Faith is often developed through hardship. So we'll see maturity in our relationship with God when we view trials and temptations as opportunities for growth.

But remember, the list above is just a starting point. Spending time in the Word and in prayer is the best way to get closer to Jesus. And be assured that no matter what, for those who wait on God and trust in Him, He acts in their behalf (Isaiah 64:4).

----=

intouch.org Daily devotion 6/30/21

Decisions that lead to contentment

Roman 8:28-39

(edited)

Think about a circumstance in your life you'd change if you could. Whether it's a hardship or unfulfilled desire, in order to be content, you must accept that the situation has been allowed by God, even if He didn't cause it.

When I face such things in my life, I often pray, "Lord, I choose to accept this as though it's coming from You. I'm choosing to look to You." Then I can rest in the knowledge that I'm His child. Instead of feeling like a victim of my circumstance, I know I'm cared for and guided by my sovereign Father.

I've also found it helps when we fully submit ourselves to God. This doesn't mean approaching God insincerely and saying, "Well, Lord, I just want to thank You for this!" Be honest and admit, "This is painful and I don't like it. But I choose to submit to You because You are trustworthy and loving. I choose to draw from Your strength for everything I need." My friend, if you do this, your concerns will lose their power.

---=

intouch.org Daily devotion 5/31/21

Making prayer a priority

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

(edited)

...The goal is to have a conversation with God as we read His Word and respond in prayer. When this becomes a habit, our thoughts will more quickly and regularly turn to God in dependence, thankfulness, and worship.

If you are struggling to be more consistent in prayer, ask the Lord for His help. Realize, however, that a habit of prayer will also require diligence on your part.

---=

intouch.org Daily devotion 1/30/24

Feasting as warfare

Psalm 23:4-6

Feasting as warfare

(edited)

Psalm 23 portrays feasting as a form of trust amid adversity. Imagine the courage it would take to sit down at a banquet with a horde of angry enemies surrounding you. Yet this is God's invitation to us in every struggle and trial: Come. Sit at My table and rest. I've prepared a place for you in the presence of your enemies.

What keeps us from sitting at God's table and rejoicing in the story of God's faithfulness in our own life? Three obstacles come to mind: striving, discontentment, and deception....This inability to slow down and appreciate God's gifts breeds a profound sense of unfulfillment, making joy and peace elusive. The world's competitive striving and restless dissatisfaction are fueled by the enemy's most ancient and insidious deception: my way is better than God's Way.

But when we feast, we declare that God's way of gratitude, rest, and simplicity is better than the world's deceived way of striving and discontentment. We feast to challenge the enemy's lies. In this way, slowing down to savor God's gifts and remember His faithfulness - is an act of spiritual warfare. To feast is to trust in the Lord.

---=

intouch.org Daily devotion 1/9/21

The believer's repentance

2 Corinthians 12:20-21

(edited)

...To triumph over habitual sin, we must rely on God's power, both to resist temptation and to obey Him. We might fail again, but it's important that we keep coming to the Lord in sincere confession and repentance until He gives us victory - in this life or in the one to come.

If you are struggling with particular sin, ask the Lord to show you how grievous it is to Him. Then look at it from His perspective.

---=

intouch.org 3/7/21 Daily devotion

Passions and patience

(editing)

We deal with harmful desires by taking slow, measured steps away from them and toward the Lord. It's only as we relinquish our passions and retain our focus that we'll realize our fulfillment comes from Christ alone. But remember, you don't have to get there all at once. It takes patience to surrender your passions and actively seek the Lord.

--=

intouch.org Daily devotion 3/20/21

A strange time for fear

1 Kings 19:1-8

(edited)

....In today's reading, the prophet learned that the evil queen jezebel had called for his death. Apparently forgetting God's mighty victory just moments before, Elijah ran away. How could this be?

Elijah's story reminds us that success and spiritual growth do not necessarily go hand in hand; our faith can waver at any time. In fact, when we're successful and confidence is high, that's often when we turn our eyes away from the Giver of strength and toward ourselves.

Your victory is always in God's hands....Have you been distracted by success? Turn your eyes back to God. All praise and glory are rightly His. And He is also the source of freedom from fear.

[ Next Thread | Previous Thread | Next Message | Previous Message ]
[ Contact Forum Admin ]

Forum timezone: GMT-8
VF Version: 3.00b, ConfDB:
Before posting please read our privacy policy.
VoyForums(tm) is a Free Service from Voyager Info-Systems.
Copyright © 1998-2019 Voyager Info-Systems. All Rights Reserved.