Ephesians 6:1-4 starts off with “Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. Honor your father and mother (which is the first commandment with a promise), so that it may go well with you, and that you may live long on the earth." I bet it is a passage many of us parents know well. Like most parents, I often go to these scriptures when I have a disobedient child, not just to correct their behavior, but to steady my own heart and remind myself of the kind of parent God is calling me to be. To be honest, I may have used it a few times to scare them into submission.

But I want to talk to the fathers today. Paul does not just warn our kids but in fact he places a high responsibility on us fathers as well. This passage quickly makes a U-turn and puts a heavy emphasis onto the shoulders of the father. “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.” God is not only concerned with obedience; He is deeply concerned with the way in which we lead. Where is our heart at? Is your heart in a position of gentleness, humility, patience and repentance. Our authority is not a hammer. It is supposed to be one of Christlikeness.

Colossians 3:20–21 echoes the same truth, “Fathers, do not exasperate your children, so that they will not lose heart.” Another word for “lose heart” is discouraged, broken in spirit. When we have broken our children’s spirits, we have closed the doors. They will withdraw, and we have created a barrier between them and us. Scripture warns us that a father’s harshness, impatience, or unrestrained frustration can slowly drain the courage out of our child’s heart. That’s why James reminds us, “But everyone must be quick to hear, slow to speak and slow to anger; for the anger of man does not achieve the righteousness of God.” (James 1:19). Our anger may produce compliance, but it will never produce Christlikeness in us or in our children.

So, today’s devotion is not about children obeying. It’s about fathers becoming more like the Father. God calls us to lead with patience, to discipline with purpose, to speak with restraint, and to model the very gospel we want our children to believe. Our kids don’t just learn from our words; they learn from our reactions, our tone, our humility, and our repentance. When we bridle our tongues, when we are slow to anger, when we choose gentleness over dominance, we are not being weak; we are being Christlike. And in doing so, we create a home where obedience is not demanded out of fear but offered out of trust.
 
Prayer:
Lord, shape my heart as a father. Teach me to lead with Your patience, Your wisdom, and Your gentleness. Help me to be slow to anger, quick to listen, and faithful in guiding my children toward You. Let my words build courage, not crush it. Let my discipline reflect Your love, not my frustration. Make my home a place where Your character is seen and felt. Amen.

New American Standard Bible (NASB)
Copyright © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation

Why does he do it? Why does Paul write to the Philippians as he does, from his prison quarters? Why doesn’t he just give up, and call it good enough?
I think as far as Paul is concerned, nothing has changed. He gave his life to Christ and the gospel years earlier. This imprisonment is just another arena for him to accomplish his calling. So he writes to the Philippians.

Philippians 1:12-14 – "Now I want you to know, brethren, that my circumstances have turned out for the greater progress of the gospel, so that my imprisonment in the cause of Christ has become well known throughout the whole praetorian guard and to everyone else, and that most of the brethren, trusting in the Lord because of my imprisonment, have far more courage to speak the word of God without fear."

Paul is writing to his partners in this gospel ministry of his, esteeming their “partnership in the gospel, from the first day until now.” Philippians 1:5. Then he writes this, “I have you in my heart, since both in my imprisonment and in the defense and confirmation of the gospel, you are all partakers with me." Philippians 1:7 NASB.

The gospel is being proclaimed to a new arena of people he could never have witnessed to! And it spread among those, to others whom Paul would never meet. Moreover, the brethren looking on, seeing his example, became more confident instead of less so. They have “far more courage to speak the word of God without fear,” he declares.

What a model of determination! What a lesson on perspective! Paul is not lamenting his loss of freedom, or the threat of execution, always in the wings. He is not expressing concern about the conditions in which he is living. Having been put into a place against his will, he considers it God’s will for him, and focuses on how he is to serve Christ and the gospel while there. It reminds me of other heroes of the faith, like Daniel and Joseph. They all went about their calling.

Since I wrote last in my April 28th devotional, which I declared was the final one, I was asked to write another. This one, to be turned in no later than my last day of work! Things have changed for us. We put a deposit down on an apartment, in Fresno! Our house will go up for sale. We will move about June 30th. Unexpected just days ago! A little faster than we had possibly planned, and something we were not even sure we would ever do. But in perfect timing in the Spirit. It does stress us, especially as we also have a trip to No. Carolina planned in mid-June.

So, as we are suddenly in this changed position, we hope to emulate Paul’s “Gospel of Christ” fixation! We cannot declare ourselves up to his standard. But we strive toward that high bar. Lynn and I rarely start on the same page in things. But we are together downsizing, toward our benefit and that of our family, who will one day step into being our caretakers, likely. But on a larger scale we surrender ourselves to God’s way, and look for “the greater progress of the gospel” in our new world. I wrote a declaration in my journaling that we are being “streamlined for service.” Hebrews 12:1. In these new quarters, and a community we could not before have impacted.

As our abilities decline and our new world seems to make us more “confined,” we look as Paul did to see the blessing and new opportunities that God Himself has provided. We did not take these steps out of our own focus. We feel very strongly together that this is a sovereign work of the Lord. We would like to say to you today, and when the change is complete, “Look at what the Lord has done!”

You can benefit us by your prayers (Philippians 1:19). Maybe we can bless you by our example, as humble as it is, in our new unknown path. Be blessed!


Read: Philippians 1
Sing: I Know Whom I Have Believed, by Major D. W. Whittle (James McGranathan)

New American Standard Bible (NASB)
Copyright © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation

I invited Jesus Christ into my heart when I was six years old, so I have lived for Him most of my life. Because of that, I have celebrated a lot of Easters. Year-after-year, as we came up to Easter weekend, I’d hear the story about Jesus’ arrest, trial, crucifixion and resurrection. And after all these years, I have to be careful not to take it for granted. I can lose the excitement. I can become less appreciative. I can even get bored hearing the story one more time. 

Well, there’s an old hymn called “I Love to Tell the Story”. It goes like this…

“I love to tell the story of unseen things above,
Of Jesus and His glory, of Jesus and His love.
I love to tell the story because I know it’s true.
It satisfies my longings as nothing else can do.

Chorus:
I love to tell the story!
‘Twill be my theme in glory’
To tell the old, old story
Of Jesus and His love.

The story of Jesus is something that should never become boring. We should love to hear the story of Jesus and His love.

So how should I respond to Easter?

Romans 6:10-11 says, For the death that He died, He died to sin once for all; but the life that He lives, He lives to God. Even so, consider yourselves to be dead to sin, but alive to God in Christ Jesus.

Easter is not an end, it’s a beginning. In fact, it is a revolution. The empty tomb is proof that Jesus Christ conquered sin and death. But it also means that the same power that raised Jesus Christ from the dead now dwells in us (Romans 8:11). So we should think of ourselves as dead to sin and alive to God.  

That means the things we used to do before we met Jesus Christ are not things we continue to do. Just as Jesus Christ died on the cross for us, we are called to surrender our lives to Him. Take up our cross daily (Luke 9:23). That means giving our time to Him. Casting our cares upon Him. And letting Him have a say in our plans for each new day.

We approach each day with hope. Because Jesus is alive, we don’t have to fear the future. We know who holds the future. We will have a resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:51-52). We will live with Jesus Christ in heaven forever. So because we know we don’t have to fear death, it should cause us to live differently today. With hope.

We tell the old old story of Jesus and His love. We take the best news ever and proclaim it to others. We tell them about what our lives were like before we met Jesus Christ. And how our lives have changed since because of Jesus Christ. Then we live our lives in the light of the gospel. We let people see the changes. We live like Christ. We follow His example. And as we reflect the light of Christ to those around us, some will ask us about this hope we have. Then we take that opportunity and share it. That’s our response to Easter. 

New American Standard Bible®, Copyright © 1960, 1971, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. All rights reserved.

So it is, I come to my final devotional. It has been nearly five years since I was hired at Campus Bible Church. My last day of employment will be Thursday, April 30th. Many have asked what our plans are. Regarding the church, we will attend at Palm as a rule, starting in May, and continue through 2026. We will stay back from any special commitments during this period. We will at times join our family in other places.

In the bigger picture, our daughter would have us closer to her, south of Easton. So our longer-term future is out that way. More immediately, we hope and plan to visit our older daughter in No Carolina in June, to see our youngest granddaughter, Tessa, graduate from high school. We will also be involved with another granddaughter, Jazmine, regarding her wedding in September. I will have the privilege of officiating her marriage to her fiancé, Jack, a wonderful Christian young man! Lynn and I have begun pre-marital counseling with them.

As I write this devotional, I am just finishing reading through the book of Micah, in the Amplified version. Yesterday I turned in my official letter of resignation. I am moved with a little sorrow and into slow and quiet reflection. But I am still ready for this life change.

The final three verses in Micah move me almost beyond comprehension! The expressions there are at the core of our Christian hope – God’s forgiveness, His constant delight in mercy and lovingkindness. His compassion. These are a great encouragement to me as I think about my employment exit, and the sometimes-bewildering changes ahead for us, as our years of life make us contemplate what winding down toward our end of days might look like.

He casts all our sins into the depths of the sea! Who does not need that? He gives us truth, now embodied in Christ. He delights in mercy and lovingkindness. I want to be more like Him!

He keeps giving us truth, lovingkindness and mercy. These His sworn promises to His people, “from the days of old.” We are some of those people. Hallelujah!

We all have confident hope for the future ahead of us on earth, and then in heaven with Him forever. Take today’s passage with you as you press ahead in life. Jesus will meet you there over and over. Let it be your own private grotto where you withdraw to meet with Him.

Say to Him, “Who is a God like You?”

Read: Micah 7:7-20, Psalm 36:5-10
Sing: Lead Me to Calvary, by Jennie Evelyn Hussey (Wm. J. Kirkpatrick),
Seek: Look up the word, “grotto.”

Amplified Bible®
Copyright © 1954, 1958, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1987 by
The Lockman Foundation, La Habra, CA 90631

Have you heard the sweet old hymn called “Count Your Blessings?”  The opening stanza has some really good advice.  It reminds us: “Count your many blessings, name them one by one, And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done.”

That’s essentially what Paul does in the Book of Ephesians!  In 1:3, he makes the extraordinary claim that God has blessed us with “every spiritual blessing” in the heavenly realms.  And then he goes on to describe those blessings throughout the epistle:

• He chose us in him before the foundation of the world (1:4)
• He made us holy and blameless before him (1:4)
• He predestined us in love for adoption as his sons and daughters (1:5)
• He redeemed us through Christ’s blood (1:7)
• He forgave our trespasses (1:7; 4:32)
• He lavished the riches of his grace upon us (1:7-8)
• He made known to us the mystery of his will (1:9)
• He gave us an inheritance (1:11)
• He predestined us according to the purpose of his own will (1:11)
• He sealed us with the Holy Spirit (1:13; 4:30)
• He made us alive together with Christ (2:5, 8)
• He saved us by grace (2:5)
• He raised us up and seated us with Christ in the heavenly places (2:6)
• He prepared our good works in advance for us (2:10)
• He united Jews and Gentiles together into one new man (2:14-15; cf. 3:6)
• He made us fellow citizens with the saints (2:19)
• He made us members of the household of God (2:19)
• He gave each one of us spiritual gifts (4:7)
• He gave us leaders to equip the saints for the work of ministry (4:11-12)
• And he gave us the full armor of God (6:10-17)

So no matter how you feel today – or what your circumstances are – count your blessings, and it will surprise you what the Lord has done.

New American Standard Bible (NASB)
Copyright © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation

Boy, did we want that book to work! We hoped and wished and longed for it to work, but it didn’t. And what a lesson we learned.

It all started when we four 6th grade boys found an advertisement in the back of a kids magazine for a book that would make people do anything you wanted them to do. Even though it cost $50, we were sure it would be a better investment than the ads for "build your muscles like Mr. Universe” or “learn how to play guitar in 7 days” or even “learn how to look taller!” (all of these were designed to help us impress girls, of course!)

Anyway, we worked hard, redeeming every bottle we could find, running little carnivals in our backyard, doing extra chores for money – and we finally gathered the money and sent it away for our money-back guarantee book that would change our lives! We waited so impatiently, going to the mailbox every day for weeks. And one day, it arrived!

We read it voraciously (much more so than our Nathaniel Hawthorne story), and the concept was simple (no, I’m not going to tell you the secret, you have to buy your own book!). But when we tried it – and we each went through the steps so many times – it didn’t work!

Now why would I tell you such a silly story? It’s because I was re-reading a passage from an article by someone from Youth With a Mission (YWAM), and I was trying to remember a time when I wanted something like this. What do you think for yourself when you read it?

“If you have apostolic passion, you are one of the most dangerous people on the planet. The world no longer rules your heart. You are no longer seduced by getting and gaining but devoted to spreading and proclaiming the glory of God in the nations. You live as a pilgrim, unattached to the cares of this world. You are not afraid of loss. You even dare to believe you may be given the privilege of dying to spread His fame on the earth. The Father's passions have become your passions. You find your satisfaction and significance in Him. You believe He is with you always, to the end of life itself. You are sold out to God, and you live for the Lamb. Satan fears you, and the angels applaud you. Your greatest dream is that His name will be praised in languages never before heard in heaven. Your reward is the look of pure delight you anticipate seeing in His eyes when you lay [it all] at His feet ....”

New International Version (NIV)
Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

Today we live in a stress filled world and it is often difficult to keep a proper perspective.  Our minds are often distracted from truth, and we see life from a skewed perspective.  When this happens, we often begin to worry.  Worry causes a division in our mind.  We believe God will take care of us, but the problems seem so big and so real.  It becomes difficult for us to focus on the Lord and His promises.

Many of you know that Lynette and I live in the foothills near Prather.  We moved here 30 years ago because we enjoy the country more than the city.  There is a lot of wildlife in our area and ravens make up a part of that wildlife.  They are a good-sized black bird.  Jesus taught that God feeds them and takes care of them.  On our property are about ten almond trees.  Through the years we have lived here, we have only eaten a handful of almonds from our trees.  Each year, before the almonds are ready to be picked, the ravens arrive and strip the trees of all the nuts.  There usually aren’t any left.  This used to frustrate me until one day I realized that God is using my almond trees to provide for the ravens.  The ravens don’t have to worry about food, at least for a couple of weeks, as they eat all my almonds.  I realized there is a practical lesson for me to learn about worry.

When we worry, it blinds us to the reality that God takes care of all of His creation.  God clothes the wild flowers of the field with vivid colors and intricate design.  No two are exactly alike.  Even the ravens of the field have their need for food provided by the Lord.  Since God so adequately takes care of His creation then He surely will take care of us who He has given much greater value.  Jesus says, “And you are far more valuable to him…” (Luke 12:24 NLV) Because of that value He has placed on us, He will take care of us.  Everything in our life matters to Him.  He asks us to bring those worry producing things to Him.  “Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.” (1 Peter 5:7 NLV) We have an all-powerful, all-knowing, all-caring God who wants to meet the needs of our lives.  We can give those cares and worries to the Lord and He will deal with them as He knows is best.  

Jesus is not saying that we should always sit around and wait for God to give us food and clothing.  But rather He encourages us to trust Him and to use the abilities He has given us to work together with Him.  Through this means he will provide our needs.  As we do our part we can trust God to do His part.

It is wonderful to know that God always has His eyes on us.  We have such great value to Him that He will take care us without fail.
 

• Have you allowed worry to distract you from God’s care in your life?
• What are you facing in life that is causing you to worry and question God’s care?
• How are you seeing God take care of you?
• What steps do you need to take to trust God more?

Prayer: Lord, help me see the great value you place on me.  Thank you for always caring for me no matter what my circumstances.  Amen

New Living Translation (NLT)
Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

Anywhere in this world I think, but especially here in America it is easy to lose sight of the eternal while chasing after the material and temporel. As Christians we are called to follow the cause of Christ, however it can be tempting to make excuses for why we cannot serve or give due to our own needs. This verse reminds us that God is not unaware of our immediate concerns or needs. He doesn’t expect us to get everything in our lives completely sorted out and taken care of before we can serve Him. Rather the opposite is stated here, that we should seek first His kingdom, and then the rest will come.

If we do things out of order we will spend all of our effort chasing after things that while important now are not eternally important. We will miss out on the opportunities that God wants to put in front of us so that we can play a pivotal role in advancing His kingdom. He wants to free us up to do ministry and promises that if we run after Him, He will then take care of our needs.
 
I think it is also important to note that in this passage Jesus uses the word need and not want. When taking a financial class it is often stressed to differentiate between needs and wants. This passage is not a life hack to get everything you want and to get rich. However if you truly run after God, if you chase after the things of Him, and seek His righteousness, then your heart will hunger for the things of God and not the things of this world. God will supply your needs and your heart will be full. Remember that as children of God we may be in this world, but we are not of this world and our hearts and minds should be set on Jesus.

Let us run full speed toward God our Father and watch the amazing things He will accomplish in us and through us.

New King James Version (NKJV)
Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

I love working with kids. I’ve worked with kids or youth in some form since I was eleven years old. I’ve been told that something in my persona “switches on” whenever I interact with kids and teens. I do feel more alive, more joyful, more energized. While many people who work with kids gravitate toward one age group, I actually enjoy spending time with kids of all ages, from tiny babies through snarky high schoolers. (Don’t tell my high school students, but junior highers are still my favorite group to work with.) If I’m honest, in most social situations, I would much rather talk to children than adults.

I think Jesus enjoyed being around children, too. In Mark 10, parents bring their children to Jesus for Him to bless them. These kids were probably younger than seven or eight years old. Jesus’ disciples, however, turn them away, “rebuking” their parents. Perhaps they thought Jesus was too busy to be bothered by loud, snotty-nosed kids. Perhaps, after a long day of ministry, the last thing they wanted to deal with was a gaggle of small children. Whatever their reason, they thought these kids were unworthy of Jesus’ time and attention. How wrong they were!

Look at Jesus’ response. He not only invites the children to come to Him, but also corrects the disciples’ idea that they are unimportant: “to such belongs the kingdom of God.” For Jesus, these children were not an irritant or an inconvenience. They were precious bearers of God’s image, as much as any adult. In the words of the Sunday school song,

Jesus loves the little children,
All the children of the world.
Red, brown, yellow, black, and white,
They are precious in His sight.
Jesus loves the little children of the world.

But Jesus goes a step further: “whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it.” What could Jesus possibly mean? Certainly we shouldn’t imitate children in every way possible; Proverbs 22:15 says that “folly is bound up in the heart of a child.” I’ve worked with too many kids to hold to any idea of the inherent goodness of children. Rather, Jesus teaches here that the faith required for entrance into God’s kingdom, the faith that is the essence of our relationship with God, mirrors certain qualities best seen in children. It is a “childlike faith.” From what I’ve observed with kids, here are ways our relationship with God should be “childlike:”

• Trust: Children are incredibly trusting, to the point of gullibility. Their trust is beautifully simple and implicit; if I tell my daughter Lottie that I’ll do something for her, she believes me, simply because she loves her father. That kind of trust—unwavering, unhesitating, grounded in love—is the kind of trust we should have toward God. 
• Dependency: Children are usually much more willing than adults to ask for help. They recognize their limitations and their dependence on others, especially Mom and Dad. How much greater is our dependency on God than that of a small child on its parents!
• Honesty: Kids are brutally honest. They’ll tell you exactly what they think of you, even if it hurts. No sugarcoating here! Our relationship with God benefits from that kind of honesty, especially with respect to our own sinfulness.
• Humility: Have you ever seen two children, perfect strangers, play together on a playground? It’s beautiful. Children are less prone to comparison or pretentiousness than adults are. We could learn much from this humility (cf. Matthew 18:4).
• Eagerness: If you could bottle the eagerness, enthusiasm, and energy of small children and sell it as a supplement, you’d make millions. What if we had the same level eagerness for God and His Word? In 1 Peter 2:2, Peter calls us to have the same longing for spiritual truths that babies do for their mother’s milk.
• Monotony: I once read that children have “the ability to delight in monotony.” When you play with them, they’ll cry, “Again!” over and over. How great would be our joy if we embraced the potentially “monotonous” part of the Christian life—Bible reading, prayer, fellowship—and cried, “Again!”

If you haven’t spent time with kids lately, or even if you are around kids all the time, keep an eye out for these traits. Ponder how you can model this sort of childlikeness in your own relationship with God. And love on any kids in your life a little extra this week: “to such belongs the kingdom of God.”

"English Standard Version (ESV)
The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. ESV® Text Edition: 2016. Copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers."

As I was working on our Easter Walkthrough I realized increasingly that I needed to be more exact. Sometimes I would think I was being clear with descriptions or instructions, because I’ve done it so many times before. Do you know that we started offering the Easter Walkthrough in 2011!?!  I would forget that first time helpers needed clearer understanding.

We do have a general list of what is needed and what we should get done each year but; because it changes somewhat each year, the list can require changes as well. And as I continued through the process and things got busier as the deadline for having it ready was coming closer and my brain got fuller and fuller with all the details, I realized having detailed instructions written down was so very important. I kept going over my lists each day, checking things off, adding to them, etc.

As I’m reading in Numbers I’m struck by how the Lord doesn’t do estimates. He doesn’t say they "kind of" set up or there were "about" this many people. He is exact. He tells Moses and Aaron exactly how to set up camp, how many people were in each part, what their exact duties were and how to do them.
 
I wonder how many times Aaron and Moses had to look back at the instructions to make sure they were getting them right. The fact that it is written down makes me think that they looked at them a lot, as well as the others following them.
 
In times past, as I have read through these instructions in Numbers, I have to say I have thought they were a little mundane and wondered why God had them there. But this time they had a personal message for me and they came alive with importance! Nothing of God's Word is there by mistake and God’s examples are so good!!

Thy Word  
Amy Grant and Michael W. Smith

Chorus 1
Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet
And a light unto my path
Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet
And a light unto my path

Verse 1
When I feel afraid
And I think I've lost my way
Still You're there right beside me
Nothing will I fear
As long as You are near
Please be near me to the end

Verse 2
I will not forget
Your love for me and yet
My heart forever is wandering
Jesus be my guide
And hold me to Your side
I will love You to the end


©1984 Meadowgreen Music Company and Word Music, LLC
CCLI Song #14301  CCLI License #144020

New King James Version (NKJV)
Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

English Standard Version (ESV)
The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. ESV® Text Edition: 2016. Copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.

When was the last time you upgraded your phone? The truth is, a quick Google search will tell you that most folks upgrade phones every two to three years to the “new and improved" version. And whether it’s a new phone, a new bag, or a new set of golf clubs, there’s nothing like the feeling of getting your hands on something "new and improved”. Much of the time, the “new” is just exciting to have, but there’s also a practical element to using something “improved”. Now, how silly would it be to keep using something old when you have the newer version? I don’t know about you, but I don’t think I’m going back to the abacus. My point is, I can make the case that we are benefiting from our relationship with Christ through the "new and improved."

Before Christ, the Old Covenant was about a bunch of different things that people needed to do to maintain their good standing/relationship with God. And the covenant screamed of the desperate need for a savior. When Christ came, died on the cross, and rose again, he paid our debt, and now, through acceptance of His atonement, we may live in the New Covenant. The Bible says that, “...the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life” (2 Cor. 3:6b). The "letter" governed by the law of the old covenant showed us that we could never do enough things to earn our salvation. While the letter may teach “what”, the Spirit teaches “how”. And because of Jesus's death and resurrection, we're under the New Covenant of the Holy Spirit that lives inside of us, which shows us how to live when we follow Christ.

Without question, there was a burden of the law and the Old Covenant. But the contrast is the blessing of the New Covenant that we get to experience. This makes our relationship with Jesus so much more meaningful because we approach God personally, not as individuals following a set of rules, but as His sons and daughters. Knowing what He has done for us should inspire us to take advantage of His incredible love, and focus more on Him and living in the grace of the New Covenant rather than the duty of the Old Covenant. While Abel’s blood called for God’s vengeance (Gen. 4:10), the blood of Jesus cries for forgiveness, redemption, and reconciliation for the children of God (Heb. 9:12-15; 10:19-22). May the "new and improved" life we find in Jesus continue to be our guide this day as we keep looking to Him.

English Standard Version (ESV)
The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. ESV® Text Edition: 2016. Copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.

We talk a lot about financial management at church, but we don’t often talk about time management. In fact, it’s interesting that we use the word ‘spend’ when it comes to our money, but we also use the word ‘spend’ when it comes to our time. Why? Because time is one of our controllable resources. So often when I ask people how they’re doing they’ll say, “I’m so tired.” When I ask why, they say, “I am so busy.”

So I want to give you five steps to managing your time well.

1. Be a good steward your time
We often attribute the word ‘stewardship’ to money. But what about time? It applies there, too. Time is a precious resource that God gives us to manage. So we are called to manage it well. And we are not to waste it. We are called to be diligent. Galatians 6:9 says, “Let us not lose heart in doing good, for in due time we will reap if we do not grow weary.” Our time on earth is limited. So let’s quit wasting time and steward it well.

2. Prioritize eternal things
In Matthew 6:33, Jesus says, “But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” Whenever possible, spend your time doing things that have eternal value. Put these things ahead of urgent things and temporary distractions. In Luke 10:41-42, Jesus challenged Martha; “You are worried and bothered about so many things; but only one thing is necessary, for Mary has chosen the good part, which shall not be taken away from her.” And what did Mary choose? Sitting at the feet of Jesus, listening to Him teach.

3. Make a plan
Whenever Jenn and I go on vacation, I like to have a plan. We will arrive at the hotel at this time. We will unpack, head to this attraction, have lunch, head to this attraction, have dinner, go here or there, then bed. Next day, we’ll get up at this time so we can make it to this thing. I drive her nuts. She likes to figure it out as we go. But I want to know the plan ahead of time so we can make the most of our time. In time management, planning ahead leads to success. When we don’t have a plan, it ends up in chaos. And this includes setting goals that reflect God’s will which are found in His Word.

4. Say “Yes” to the best
There are so many ‘asks’ coming at us. And most of these ‘asks’ are good things. But just because it’s a good thing doesn’t mean you should say yes. You have to set limits. You can’t do everything. In fact, think in terms of good, better, best. When someone asks you to do something, evaluate it in terms of what’s best. What is the best way to use your time? And…certainly if you’ve committed to something, you hang in there till that commitment is finished. That’s also a reason to say “No”.

5. Take time to rest
Why do so many people respond to the question “How are you doing?” with “I’m really tired?” Because they never take time to rest. They play video games till three in the morning. Then they have to get up for work at 8:00. Then they don’t perform well in their job, they drag through their day, and when they get home they are no good to their family. Instead, start getting to bed early. Get up early. And take a day each week that is ‘rest day’. Scripture calls it a Sabbath. Unplug. Get in the Word. Take a walk. Pray. Recharge. Nap. And by resting, it’ll set you up for the next week. There’s less illness. And there’s more energy available for the most important things.

I don’t think God wants us walking around constantly tired and lacking energy. When we have time to help someone with a project, when we have time to listen to someone, when we have time to visit someone who’s sick, we communicate the love of Christ. So, get some rest, make time for what’s best, and manage your time well.

New American Standard Bible®, Copyright © 1960, 1971, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. All rights reserved.

I was religious for the first 29 years of my life. Then I got saved. After that I spent 3 years trying to decide what to do about a church to attend, reading God’s word and praying diligently. And direction came. I spent three more years serving the Lord devotedly, and yet I did not know the central key. It became most clear in those last 6 months, before being called as a pastor to lead a church.

What is it that we are in? We have all had so much teaching, religious talk and experiences. It’s all meaningful, as it was to me. But it’s easy to become mechanical, or itinerary driven in our lives! Things which have good points to them. But there is more.

When I met Lynn in 1967, something happened to my life. Missing pieces were filled in. My future changed. My face took on a new look. I was in love. A love which led to marriage, now in its 57th year.

When I met Jesus in 1976, something happened to my life. Missing pieces were filled in. My future changed. My face took on a new look. I was in love. A love which led to an intimate union with Christ, now it its 50th year.

The Song of Solomon is about a love union between a man and a woman. But is also about a love union between God and human beings, His beloved. One of the most beautiful things we will ever hear from the Lord is declared in that book.

This is, and always shall be, the call of Jesus to our hearts. Arise. Come along. My darling. My beautiful one. Is this too much for our religious dogma? Is it too mystical? What does being God’s beloved mean? The bride of Christ? Ephesians 5:32? Hundreds of other OT & NT such references to a love union with our Lord?

Everything religious, all Christian service, all vigorous work must arise from this experience, “Arise, my darling, my beautiful one, and come along.” When we go along with Jesus, something happens. Missing pieces are filled in. Our faces take on a new look, our lives a new future. Consider its expression in these verses from Psalm 34.

The first place Jesus takes us to is a place of deliverance. There to make our faces radiant! We move from poverty to salvation, to God’s rescue and encampment about us. To wholeness. This is the first and critical piece of our union, our call to walk with Jesus by faith. It is paramount that we enter into His cocoon of love and there be made whole. “Arise, my darling, my beautiful one, and come along.”

The second place Jesus takes us to is a place of empowerment and strength. Even boldness.

He guides us. He prepares our feet. Makes us ready. Calls us to our high places. Trains our hands for battle. His right hand upholds us. He secures our steps. We move forward into our calling.

It all starts with that call, “Arise, my darling.” This walk, this going out with Him becomes the pattern for our lives all our days. This is the one thing we do. Our Christian walk.

Be made whole, TODAY! Be girded and trained, and go out with Him to the battle to which we are called EVERY DAY!! (Psalm 18:37-42). Live in the broad place with Him who delights in you! (Psalm 18:19)


Read: Psalm 34, Psalm 18, Song of Songs 1-2
Sing: Fill My Cup, Lord, by Richard Blanchard

New American Standard Bible (NASB)
Copyright © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation

There is a promise from God in Scripture for every conceivable situation we may encounter in life.  And since we’re always facing some sort of situation – a need, a trial, a perplexing dilemma, a decision, a new opportunity – that means we should always be holding onto one of the promises of God.

What “situation” are you going through today, and what promise are you holding onto?

In 2 Corinthians 1:20, Paul tells us that all of the promises of God are “yes” in Christ.  In other words, when properly understood and applied they are guaranteed.
 
Joel Beeke calls the promises of God “a kind of middle thing between God’s purpose and performance, between his intention of good and his execution of it upon those whom he loves.  The good that God purposes and intends to do for us, he reveals to us ahead of time by way of a promise, to grant us present comfort and to draw forth hope and expectancy.  Thus, a promise is both the ground of present comfort and the expectation of future blessings.”

A couple weeks ago I had a chance to visit my mom in southern California.  She’s going through a slow, prolonged battle with Alzheimer’s disease, along with a number of other health issues. I can’t imagine navigating this season of life without the promises of God.  My mom knows the Lord, so here are a couple of promises I’m holding onto for her.  In fact, these are my prayers for her.

Isaiah 40:29 – “He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.”

Isaiah 46:4 – “Even to your old age and gray hairs I am he, I am he who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you.”

Charles Spurgeon once said: “What is prayer but the promise pleaded? A promise is, so to speak, the raw material of prayer.  The promise is the power of prayer.”

To put it more simply, true prayer is grabbing hold of the promises of God and asking him to grant what he has already purposed to give.  That is how we pray according to the will of God, and that is our confidence and hope!

So what “situation” are you going through today, and what promise are you holding onto?  If you’d like to share, send me an email so I can pray for you. 

New King James Version (NKJV)
Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

English Standard Version (ESV)
The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. ESV® Text Edition: 2016. Copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.

The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the core of Christianity.  Each year we pause on Good Friday to remember all that Christ suffered to provide our salvation.  Easter morning we celebrate Christ conquering death as He rose from the tomb the third day.  His resurrection made it possible for us to be free from the curse of death.

Soon after sin entered the world in the Garden of Eden, man began to experience physical death.  He immediately experienced spiritual death, that is separation from God.  God had told Adam and Eve, if you eat of the fruit of the tree in the middle of the Garden, you will surely die.  Once they ate of the fruit, creation began to decay and die.  Adam did not die immediately physically, but we see the results of his sin when Cain killed his brother Abel.  The Bible, from it’s very first book Genesis, to the last book, Revelation, reveals the consequences of sin…Death!  The genealogies of Genesis speak over and over again of the reality that men and women die.

The Psalmist writes, “What man can live and not see death?  Can he deliver his life from the power of the grave?”  (Psalm 89:48 NKJV)  The Scriptures go on to tell us, “…As through one man sin entered the world, and death through sin, and so death spread to all men…” (Romans 5:12 NKJV)  The result is, “…It is appointed for man to die once, and after this comes judgment.”  (Hebrews 9:27 NKJV)  The Bible does not paint a pretty picture of the results of sin.  All of us have to deal with the reality that we are dying and that we need a Savior to deliver us.

That is what Easter is all about.  God the Father knew that man could never save himself, so He made the decision in eternity past to send His Son to pay the price for man’s sin.  It was the only way to redeem mankind and the only way to stop the curse of death.

Within God’s Word is the remedy for the curse of death, which has fallen on all mankind.  God’s remedy is one of hope.  Today we see ourselves as self-achievers, self-sufficient, capable of controlling our own destiny.  We feel we can handle whatever comes our way until one day all the props are knocked out from under our life.  There is a death in our family, divorce, the loss of a job, or some tragedy comes into our lives that we are not capable of controlling.  There is a sense of hopelessness and we begin to realize that only God could meet these problems.

This realization comes because we are as the Scriptures tell us, “Dead in our trespasses and sins…and without hope and without God.”  (Ephesians 2:1,12 NKJV)  The only way we can be made alive, is to have a Savior.  One who is willing to take our sin upon Himself.  One who will carry our problems, sorrows and heartaches.  The Scriptures tell us that God gave His only Son, that we might be delivered from our sin.  Jesus loved us so much that He was willing to taste death for us and all mankind.  He took our sin upon Himself.  “He made Him who knew no sin to be sin in our behalf, so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.”  (2 Corinthians 5:21 NASB)  So that, “He…might taste death for everyone”  (Hebrews 2:9 NKJV)

Jesus in everyway experienced death for us.  He died physically…beaten, nailed to a cross, and pierced with a spear.  He also died spiritually…being separated from the Father.  Jesus took upon Himself our punishment in order that we might not have to face God’s judgment.  He had to pay the full debt for our sin in order for us to have the complete forgiveness of sin.  Through Christ’s sacrifice we can be totally free from our sin.

But Jesus had to do more then die for our sins…for then He would be only a martyr, a dead Savior…which in reality would not be a Savior at all.  As the first rays of dawn’s light hit the tomb on that first Easter morning, it revealed that Jesus was gone…He was alive!

The resurrection is God the Father’s seal of approval that Christ had paid in full the penalty for our sin.  Today God is offering you His free gift of salvation.  Right now through faith you can reach out and take it.  The Scriptures say, “For by grace you are saved through faith, and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.”  (Ephesians 2 8-9 NKJV)

As we again come to the Easter Season we come face to face with God’s offer of salvation… the forgiveness of sins…freedom from the curse of death.  Through faith in Christ, you can receive God’s free gift of salvation.  You can join the countless thousands who have found new life by believing and accepting His sacrifice for their sins.

We also can be free through accepting God’s forgiveness of sins…Christ died that you might be free from your sin.  He paid the price for all your sin.  His death on your behalf is totally sufficient.  There is no sin that is too great for God to forgive.  He is ready today to forgive you.

God invites you to enter into a new life of walking with Him.  Christ’s resurrection provides new life for all who have put their faith in His sacrificial death, burial and resurrection.  This new life will free you from the sin of the past and will lead you into a new living relationship with the resurrected Lord.

If you haven’t already, won’t you today receive God’s free gift of eternal life?  Now is the time…not tomorrow, not next week, but now!  Listen to God as He speaks to you.


Prayer:  Lord, thank you for loving me so much that You freely gave your life to set me free from my sin.  Jesus, thank you for the free salvation You provided through dying for the sin of the world, and rising from the tomb the third day.  I truly believe you are my Savior and I want You to be the Lord of my life.  Amen

New Living Translation (NLT)
Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

This is a powerful verse, a convicting verse, and the answer to anyone who asks, “Do I need a savior?” The answer to that question is of course a very solid YES. The great equalizer among humans is that every single one of us does not, cannot measure up to God. Romans 3:10 says “There is none righteous, no, not one.” Nothing we do can save us, nothing we do can bring us into a right relationship with God. But God… One of my favorite phrases in the Bible, “But God…” so much contained in those words. God made a way for us, God has fixed the rift between God and man, all we need do is respond.

John 3:16 says “God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” That is the “But God…”, all have sinned, but God made a way. This is a reason for us a christians to be joyful and grateful, but also humble, because we are still sinners. Oh we are saved by grace but we are nonetheless still sinners and far from perfect. I know for myself there are things I struggle with consistently and that serves as a healthy reminder that I am a work in progress. God did not zap away my sin nature when I believed, it is a process that we call sanctification.

Not only for ourselves, it is a process that all christians no matter where they are in their walk with the Lord are going through. We are not called to excuse sin in our brothers and sisters, but we are called to be loving, supportive, and forgiving. It is important to remember the church is a hospital, not a club for perfect people. You don’t get yourself right in order to go to church, you go to church to get yourself right. The short verse of Romans 3:23 may seem so simple to us who have been around church for any length of time, but it should serve as a reminder to keep us humble and forgiving of each other as we all strive to be more and more like Christ.

New King James Version (NKJV)
Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

What do people expect of teenagers? Not much, according to Google. Typing in “teenagers and” in the search engine results in suggestions like “teenagers and social media,” “teenagers and depression,” “teenagers and vaping,” and “teenagers and screen time.” Not very positive associations! For many parents, educators, coaches, etc., a successful teenager is one who does well in school, stays out of trouble, and isn’t a total goofball.

Scripture, however, offers a different vision of what the teen years can look like. The biblical record has many examples of young people doing amazing things for God’s kingdom. Here are just a few:

• Joseph was sold into slavery at 17 years old (Genesis 37:2). His diligence and responsibility earned him a position managing the entire household of Potiphar. Joseph’s leadership skills were so apparent that he ended up running the very jail where he was imprisoned! Joseph also displayed integrity and purity in his resistance to Potiphar’s wife’s advances… hardly something teenagers are known for today.

• Samuel began ministering alongside Eli the high priest shortly after he was weaned (1 Samuel 1:24), probably around three years old. Samuel was essentially doing full-time ministry as a child/teenager. He also heard the voice of the Lord, becoming a prophet of Israel and steward of God’s revelation at a young age.

• David was anointed as the future king of Israel as a boy and fought Goliath as a teenager (“a youth,” 1 Samuel 17:33). Beyond slaying giants, the young David was a teen of many talents: a skilled shepherd, the official court musician of Saul, even Saul’s armor-bearer (i.e. bodyguard). Courage, martial prowess, a heart of worship, and tenacious faith – David had all these as a teenager.

• The boy king Josiah began his reign at the age of 8 (2 Kings 22:1). At age 24 (still young!), Josiah oversaw the restoration of the Temple and the reinstitution of the public reading of Scripture (2 Kings 22-23).

• Jeremiah received a call to prophetic ministry when he was only a “youth” (Jeremiah 1:6). When God appointed Jeremiah to the prophetic office, Jeremiah tried to gave his age as an excuse. God’s response is powerful: “Do not say, ‘I am only a youth’ for to all to whom I send you, you shall go, and whatever I command you, you shall speak. Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you to deliver you, declares the Lord” (Jeremiah 1:7-8).

• Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah were also “youths” when they were captured and subjected to the Babylonian “re-education program” (cf. Daniel1:4). In this pagan environment, these four boys held to the faith of their heritage and chose to follow God’s law (including its dietary restrictions!), even if it meant risking their lives. Talk about resisting peer pressure!

• Many scholars believe that Mary was also a teenager when she gave birth to Jesus, perhaps as young as fourteen. Mary’s faith, obedience, and humility jump off the pages of Luke 1, and her psalm-like prayer (Luke 1:46-56) reveals a deep knowledge of Scripture and God’s character.

• A final example is Timothy, who became a companion of Paul as a young man and was later entrusted with leadership of the church in Ephesus (1 Timothy 1:3). (At that point, Timothy was probably closer to thirty or forty, still considered young for a religious leader in that day.) Timothy was apparently self-conscious about his age and inexperience, so Paul instructed him, “Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example…” (1 Timothy 4:12).

• Other examples include Miriam (Exodus 2:4-10), Joash (2 Kings 11-12), Naaman's servant girl (2 Kings 5:2-3) and according to some scholars, most of Jesus’ disciples (Matthew 10:2-4). Even Jesus himself shows up as a preteen (Luke 2:41-51).

These examples make it clear that young people—young adults, teenagers, even children—are capable of godly character, spiritual maturity, and even great deeds for God. For many of these young men and women, their teenage years were springboards into a lifetime of extraordinary service for God. Imagine a generation of young people with this vision! How great could be their impact!

If you’re a young person, don’t sell yourself short or think you have to be over 40 before God can use you. If you’re a parent, grandparent, or anyone who works with youth, don’t sell them short, either. God can and does use young people for His glory, and not just when they’re older.

"English Standard Version (ESV)
The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. ESV® Text Edition: 2016. Copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers."

Sometimes you just need to hear assurance from the Lord.

My grandson was diagnosed with Leukemia this last year. He went through chemo, radiation and then a stem cell transpoant. He's had his ups and downs and is still finishing up the first 100 days to determine if the cells are going to graft in completely. Sometimes we get messages on our family text thread letting us know good news and sometimes we get pleas for prayer. Today was a day of pleading for prayer and a friend sent me this passage in Psalms.

What was great about getting this was that it focused my attention on who God is; a rock, a fortress, a refuge. He is such a strong God! A mighty God! And then I saw the word "my." He isn't just a rock…He's my rock. He isn't just a fortress…He's my fortress. That little word calmed my anxious heart. That little word gave me hope. That little word made me feel protected. And that little word reminded me that my precious grandson has this Big God as his refuge as welll. He has put his faith in Jesus so He can say, "He is my rock, He is my fortress. I will not be shaken.

And my soul found rest in Him.

I pray you have put your faith in Jesus as well. I can't imagine life without Him.

The Solid Rock
(Edward Mote and William Batchelder Bradbury)

My hope is built on nothing less
Than Jesus’ blood and righteousness
I dare not trust the sweetest frame
But wholly lean on Jesus’ name

On Christ, the Solid Rock I stand
All other ground is sinking sand
All other ground is sinking sand

When darkness veils His lovely face
I rest on His unchanging grace
In every high and stormy gale

My anchor holds within the veil
His oath His covenant His blood
Support me in the whelming flood
When all around my soul gives way
He then is all my hope and stay

When He shall come with trumpet sound
Oh, may I then in Him be found
Dressed in His righteousness alone
Faultless to stand before the throne

©Public Domain
CCLI Song # 25417 -- CCLI License # 144020

New King James Version (NKJV)
Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

English Standard Version (ESV)
The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. ESV® Text Edition: 2016. Copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.

I remember a while ago asking students what they’d do for a million dollars. I quickly learned that the question should have been, “What wouldn’t you do for a million dollars?” I asked questions like: “Would you punch your best friend in the face as hard as you can?” “Would you live on the street for three months?” “Would you scrounge your million dollars out of a rat-infested garbage bin?” Here’s the one that got them: “Would you let me scroll through your phone, to see all your conversations and group messages?” Aside from that last one, I found that there wasn’t much that they wouldn’t do for a million dollars. I took from that, when something is incredibly valuable to us, we will endure hardships to earn the reward!
 
The question for us is, what would we endure spiritually if it meant living the best life that God has planned for us? Part of the answer is understanding that this quality of life is not attained without discipline. The Bible tells us discipline, at first glance, is viewed negatively. I recall as a kid getting a pop, a whopping, or even being grounded. I don’t think I ever looked at my mom saying, “Thank you, ma’am. May I have another?” I hated discipline, mainly because I didn’t understand it. Yet now, as an adult, I realize how much discipline helped me become a responsible husband, father, brother, etc. Now, there should be a clear difference between correction and abuse, because abuse is never acceptable. But the Bible is clear that Godly correction, however uncomfortable, can be used to perfect us if we submit to it. We are called to keep enduring discipline.
 
God’s discipline will not disappoint. It will produce endurance. Just like a soldier going through basic training, the pressure, the pain, and the difficulty are purposed to grow a regular citizen into a trained warrior equipped to protect and defend. God, in the same way, is developing us into who we need to be. To be sharp, trained, prepared individuals, ready to endure anything the enemy would throw at us. May we spend more time trusting Him by not trying to survive on our own abilities. May this prayer be on your heart today, “God, I trust you. Have your way with my life. I surrender to your plan with the utmost confidence in your discipline. Help me to keep enduring. Amen.”

English Standard Version (ESV)
The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. ESV® Text Edition: 2016. Copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.

I woke up this morning and slid open my phone, and there were texts with pictures from home.  The Midwest got hit with a major snow storm last night. My Dad in Chicago was out snow blowing his driveway and clearing off his deck. My family in Minneapolis just got a new snow blower and were excited to try it out. And my family in Green Bay couldn’t even shovel yet because the snow was still coming down…HARD.

This same morning, Jenn sent me a picture of the sunrise outside her classroom window at Red Bank Elementary School. Beautiful. So I looked up the weather for today in Fresno, and it’s going to be sunny and 89 degrees! I grew up with snow storms, wind chills, and extremely cold weather. And I vowed that if I ever moved to a warm weather state like California, when Chicago got hit with snow, I would never rub it in by sending them pictures of palm trees and us sitting by a pool dressed in shorts and tank tops. But this morning I was tempted. 

This is the time of year when the trees and flowers are supposed to be in bloom, not covered in a foot of snow. 

Jeremiah 17:7-8 – “Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD And whose trust is in the LORD. For he will be like a tree planted by the water, that extends its roots by a stream and will not fear when the heat comes; But its leaves will be green, and it will not be anxious in a year of drought nor cease to yield fruit."

These verses give us a picture of what your faith looks like when it blooms. Faith that blooms does not come by trying harder, it comes by digging our roots down deep in God’s Word and trusting Him with every aspect of our lives. When our confidence is in Him rather than the circumstances around us, we become like a well-watered tree. We have security when we’re afraid. We have peace when we are stressing out. We bear fruit even when going through a desert season in our lives.

For your faith to bloom, you need…

1. Deep roots
You wake up each day and make a conscious choice to rely on God’s wisdom, not your own. Where is God’s wisdom found? In His Word. We spend time in His Word, meditating on verses and committing them to memory. And obeying. And we spend time in prayer, praising and thanking God for who He is and for His many blessings. And when this is a daily practice, our roots of faith go deep and we remain unshakable in the storms of life.

2. No fear
The heat represents the hardships and disappointments we all face. Sometimes we make the mistake of thinking if we have strong faith then we will never have any problems. But strong faith doesn’t mean we’ll never have problems, it means we are stronger in the midst of the problems. We don’t wither in weakness because our lives are built on Him, with roots that go deep.

3. Constant fruit-bearing
When our roots have grown deep in the stream of God’s presence, we are constantly bearing fruit. The Fruit of the Spirit is evident in everything we say and do. We are a blessing to those around us. And we reach out to people with the gospel where we live, work, learn and play. When we do, we bear the fruit of conversions to Christ by His grace. 

Is your faith in bloom? If not, dig down deep in God’s Word, spend time with Him in prayer, and start trusting God with every aspect of your life.

New American Standard Bible®, Copyright © 1960, 1971, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. All rights reserved.

What happened on that Easter Morning? There arose a Shepherd, gentle and humble in heart. One who beckons the weary, “Come to Me.” The wrath of God which had been poured out now lies silent, while Jesus says, “I will give you rest.” The Pharisee of the Law bends the knee as our Shepherd says, “My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”

Death shrinks back sullenly into the darkness, defeated and disempowered, while Jesus says, “I came that you might have life!” Our Shepherd puts forth His own sheep, speaks their names and says, “Follow Me. I have green pastures for you, and quiet waters.”

While the world applauds the wise and intelligent, the Father hides the essence of all this truth from them. Then He makes it known to the least and the lowest, to infants. And the Father is well-pleased in doing so. Jesus, having laid His life down for His sheep, is granted all authority in all things by His Father. He exercises it to call and know His own sheep. Our Gentle Shepherd.

He rejoices to lead us, to love us and make Himself known to us. He is careful with the bruised reed, and the dimly burning wick. Gentle and kind, He heals the brokenhearted. He sets about to do awesome things which we do not expect, God originated, hidden things.

He fills up our joy, and makes us fruitful branches in Him. He works on our behalf now things not heard even from days of old, things angels long to look into. He acts on behalf of all those who wait for Him. As we remember His ways, He accomplishes the kingdom through us.

And the earth, the sun, the moon and the stars, even all the nations finish their holy purpose day by day, such as was laid down before the world was. Awesome things which we never expected. The world spins its final revolution, and Jesus’ words, “It is finished,” are fulfilled!

He’s calling for you today! Go to Him. Jesus will transform your very life, even now, even again! Wait for Him, for His unexpected works. He will do them in front of you. He will do them through you. He has a personal calling, just for you, designed with your name on it!

His yoke is easy, His burden is light. Fear no more! Rejoice evermore. Walk by faith. Be filled with the Spirit. You were made and prepared for just exactly all this! Fulfill every part of His plan. He will work it in you, and through you! Awesome things, which you do not expect. Over and over!!

Rejoice and be glad. He is calling you! His favor is upon you!
Today is the day to exercise faith!
Today is the day to serve the Lord!!
Today is the day to find rest for your souls!!!
Remember Him today. He is awesome! It is finished!!

Read: Matt. 11:25-30, John 10:1-18, Psalm 23, Isaiah 64:1-5a
Sing: Gentle Shepherd, by Gloria Gaither, William J. Gaither

New American Standard Bible (NASB)
Copyright © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation

When I was in Elementary School, I had a great friend who lived on the other side of town where I grew up.  During summer vacation, we were allowed to walk, run, skateboard, or ride bikes to each other’s house – whatever it took to get there safely while our parents were at work.

One day I thought it would be fun to ride my sister’s ten-speed… as fast as I could… down a steep hill… riding on the sidewalk… on the wrong side of the road.  (What were my parents thinking?)  About halfway down the hill I lost control, flipped sideways, and slid about 15-feet across the sidewalk.  The concrete scraped off the skin on the left side of my body like a cheese grater.  I remember laying in bed for days with painful, open wounds that slowly scabbed over and cracked every time I tried to move or walk.  At the time it felt like an eternity.  But gradually I got better, and before I knew it life went back to normal – except for a few scars to remind me not to ride my bike like an idiot anymore.
 
That story reminds me of the suffering Peter describes in his first epistle.  It’s not the kind of suffering that comes from a twelve-year-old’s folly on his sister’s bicycle.  It’s the kind of suffering that comes as a consequence of living the Christian life openly and courageously in a corrupt world that despises God (1 Peter 1:6-7, 2:11, 18-21, 3:13-17, 4:1-5, 12-16, 5:8-9).  And it’s every bit as painful – if not more!

When we suffer as believers for the sake of Christ, how do we keep going and not lose heart?  How do we continue glorifying God and not give up?

1 Peter 5:10 gives us three clues:

(1.) We have to remember that God’s grace is sufficient to carry us through our trials.  When we face suffering, we have to remember that we are not alone.  And we have to remember that God is never taken by surprise.  He is sovereign.  He is control of the challenges he allows in our lives.  And sometimes he calls us to suffer for the sake of Christ – “If when you do good and suffer for it you endure, this is a gracious thing in the sight of God. For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in his steps” (1 Peter 2:20-21).

(2.) We have to remember that our trials are temporary.  When we’re going through the fire, I know it doesn’t feel that way.  But Peter said, “after you have suffered a little while…”  Compared to the eternal glory that is waiting for us in heaven, our trials are like the blink of an eye, like the tick of a second-hand on the face of a clock (Romans 8:18).

(3.) Finally, we have to remember the final outcome of our suffering.  Just as I healed from my bike accident and went on with my life, God is constantly bringing us through trials and making us stronger, even using the most difficult and desperate circumstances of our lives to bring about something good (Romans 8:28).  Peter promises us that no matter what we are going through, God will himself restore, confirm, strengthen and establish us.

Do you believe that today?  And are you willing to trust him?  Are you willing to embrace the trial that God has allowed in your life, and even praise him for it, because you know that he is making you more like Christ?

English Standard Version (ESV)
The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. ESV® Text Edition: 2016. Copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.