Why Do the Heathens Rage?

Good Morning: Last night I watched and listened to President Bush’s press conference. I heard clear messages regarding very tough issues. I understood his plans. Yet immediately after the broadcast, the Democrats started twisting the simple message raising doubt and suspicion. I have determined that the Democratic Party should be re-named the Accusation Party. As I listen to their unreasonable accusations, I am convinced that the only reason why these issues are hard is because the Democrats have chosen to make them hard. I know that Jesus died for their sins too, but they seem to love their sinful obstruction behavior more than anything, probably even more than their own children because by doing nothing they pass a financial burden to their children and grandchildren that they themselves are too selfish to address. God’s Word is true that the sins of the fathers pass to their children, their children’s children, even unto the third and forth generation (Exodus 34:7, Blue Letter Bible).


Bible Study, Nehemiah 9:16-25
What is the main point? The Children of Israel worshipped God repeating a summary of what they learned as a result of reading His Word. In this passage they continue from their recollection of how God delivered them from Egypt to the way God provided for them as they wandered forty years in the wilderness. They recognized how their ancestors rebelled against God, but they declare God’s grace and mercy, which is stronger than our forefather’s disobedience.
What does God reveal about Himself? He demonstrates that His grace and mercy is beyond human ability to comprehend. For those who have been redeemed, we recognize His great gift of love, but we really don’t understand what manner of love exists that can shower such lavish affection on us who are so unlovely.
What insights into my life? I know that I do not deserve God’s grace and mercy. I am a sinner. I desperately need my Savior, Jesus, to take control of my life by His Holy Spirit this day. I am so grateful that He paid the full penalty for my sin. I want to demonstrate thankfulness throughout this day.
How can I honor God with this information? I will praise and exalt His Holy Name today. I will remember what He’s done for me. I will proclaim His grace and mercy in the marketplace.
Where is God working today? God has sent us a Spring-snow storm that has slowed us down today. I love God’s intervention into our plans. It is a way to remind us that He is God and as much as we would like to control our world, we cannot.

Obedience To God Brings Joy

Good Morning: Some days are better than others. This is one of those days when I probably should have stayed in bed. I’m angry and snapping at everyone and I don’t understand why. Being a male, I compartmentalize feelings. This is both a God created strength so that I can function, but it is also weakness because I now suffer from internal strife and confusion. So, I have to take some time to think through what’s triggering this selfish, childish behavior. Whenever I stray from the path of righteousness, I desperately need the Holy Spirit to stop me from causing harm to others. Today’s Bible study passage only proves to me that I am a frail human who has great difficulty obeying what I know is God’s revealed will for my life. I am so glad that He loves me and that He understands my failures. I also know that He will not leave me in this state, and that He will encourage me to live in obedience to His Word.

Bible Study, Nehemiah 8:13-18
What is the main point? The reading of God’s Word continued to bring about behavioral changes in the Children of Israel. As they examined His Word, they concluded that it was time for the annual festival of Succoth (Booths), which God commanded to commemorate the fact that God sustained the Children of Israel as they wandered through the desert for forty years.
What does God reveal about Himself? He blessed His people with joy as they obeyed His Word. He does this for anyone today.
What insights into my life? I witnessed a very similar thing happen Saturday evening as I taught our community outreach about Passover and took the people through a Seder service. As we praised the Lord, many saw how God used this ancient meal with all its symbols to point the way to Jesus. The joyous celebration touched the hearts of every participant. Remembering this is helping me know that Jesus still wants to use me, and that is encouraging. I would have fired me long ago. I wonder just how does one get fired from a volunteer job?
How can I honor God with this information? Obedient behavior results from hearing, embracing, and trusting God’s Holy Word. This generates true faith. I want to resemble His life. I must let His Word penetrate. His words of life can and do calm me. Once I submit to His way, then His life can radiate from me.
Where is God working today? These passed few days have drained me physically, emotionally, and mentally. I have new customers visiting today. I need His strength to make it through this day. Obedience to His Word brings His joy. The joy of the Lord brings strength. I pray that I live and work obediently to what I know to be His truth. Hopefully, I won’t harm anyone as God takes me through this growth process.

Unconditional Love

Good Morning: As I looked at today’s passage, I wondered what Ezra read from the Holy Scriptures that could move people to such open emotional displays. It is only speculation on my part, but I suspect that they heard and God granted them understanding of what we see in Deuteronomy, Chapter 7, verses 6 through 9. It was God who fixed His affection upon the people and they did absolutely nothing to earn his love. I know when I consider His unconditional and faithful love; His love affects me in more ways than I can explain. I write these simple messages, but I know that I can never adequately express the wonder of His love.

Bible Study, Nehemiah 8:1-12
What is the main point? The Word of God is read to the people. When presented in a public forum, the Word of God blesses the people. Some were moved to tears. Others recognized that they experienced a Holy moment worthy of worship and celebration.
What does God reveal about Himself? He received their worship. I believe their varied response is evidence that they sensed His presence.
What insights into my life? This passage is personal encouragement to me to maintain this daily Bible study. When I look back over the passed thirty-four years since Jesus apprehended my life, His encouragement to study His Word has been the greatest aid He’s given to keep me on track and useful for His service.
How can I honor God with this information? Reading and studying God’s Word is the best way I know how to be prepared to introduce people to Jesus, the most important work I can perform in this life.
Where is God working today? My department will engage in a team building effort today. I pray that I will be used effectively by Jesus to help my co-workers understand each other so that we can work more effectively together. Hopefully, God will provide opportunities for me to share His love for people today.

Passover

Good Morning: Why is this night different from all other nights? This question will be asked in Jewish homes tonight all across the world as the children of Israel celebrate the Lord’s Passover. I believe every follower of Yeshua (Jesus) should experience a Passover Seder in as close to its traditional form. The object lessons God teaches through this experience will give believers a greater appreciation for what Yeshua accomplished for them and they will never look at the celebration of communion quiet the same. That I believe is the answer to the question. This night we appreciate the salvation of our God.


Bible Study, Nehemiah 6:15-19
What is the main point? In this short passage a great statement is found in verse 16. Those that had opposed the work of God “lost their confidence; for they recognized that this work has been accomplished with the help of our God.”
What does God reveal about Himself? He responds to His enemies, not with His wrath, but with a demonstration of His blessing to those who obey Him. He demonstrates mercy too vast to comprehend to those that hate Him.
What insights into my life? Tonight is Passover. As a Jewish man, it is my duty to celebrate this most important Feast of Israel. I conduct an annual Seder using the traditional symbols, activities, and foods and show how they point to Yeshua and His redemptive work. I pray that those who participate will recognize Messiah in this work for the Lord this very different night.
How can I honor God with this information? I want all the work that I do, no matter what it is, to glorify my God and King, my Lord and Savior, the Holy One of Israel, Yeshua.
Where is God working today? I pray that He prepares the hearts and minds of the Seder participants to see Yeshua and to praise Him for the great work of salvation that He did for me and for all of us.

Faithful Government Leaders

Good Morning: I wrote two days ago that those who uphold Godly righteousness must expect opposition. History teaches us that God will allow even evil people who would lead millions to self destruction an opportunity to Govern. When He does, it allows those who are willing to embrace truth to see a clear distinction between good and evil. This clarity is necessary because natural men and women do not have Godly wisdom and discernment to know the difference. Many of our Governing Leaders are faithfully attempting to execute their duties, while others oppose and obstruct. I’ve heard the unfaithful ones cry out for compromise. Compromise has only led to further frustration. Then, the smear campaigns began with vial hatred spewing from their hearts. Now, they have caused many to fall away and become unfaithful traitors of their trust. All that I know to do is pray for the salvation of their immortal souls, because those that lead have a higher responsibility before the King of the Universe to govern His people with justice and mercy. It is time for our leaders to stop talking and act.

Bible Study, Nehemiah 6:1-14
What is the main point? The enemies of God and His people will try and stop the plan and purpose of God through: compromise, slander, and treachery. These very tactics are being employed by malcontent members of our legislative branches of Government today.
What does God reveal about Himself? He gave strength, resolve, and wisdom to His servant. Nehemiah avoided being tricked, trapped, frightened, and destroyed.
What insights into my life? I can see Nehemiah’s faithfulness to the plan and purpose of God. I want to be known as a faithful servant of the Lord. I hope I hear Jesus say, “Well done, my good and faithful servant! Enter into the joy of my Kingdom.” I believe that our Governing officials would behave honorably if they held this same desire in their hearts.
How can I honor God with this information? I choose this day to act in a manner that reflects faithfulness, to God and His Word, my wife, family, friends, and co-workers. I will stand firm for what I know is right. Today, I will call and write Congress and demand that they stop this filibuster folly and act as the representatives of the American people, not their global-ism ideology. I often wonder if those that would transform us back to a European culture, have forgotten, or simply never knew what it means to be an American, a fiercely independent person who loves liberty and who balances freedom with personal responsibility.
Where is God working today? We need a strategy balanced with faithfulness to what we already know to be right and the truth. If we do, I believe God shows us in this passage that He will sustain us and encourage us to complete the task He’s assigned to us.

God Expects Governing Officials to Act Justly

Good Evening: This has been a very challenging week at work. I hope that our Senators and Congressman would understand what it means to us who labor each day that it is foolish for them to talk. I expect our elected officials to act, not talk and go to lunch. Sometimes, I honestly think we’d be much better off without the circus act we are forced to refer to as the United States Congress.

Bible Study, Nehemiah 5:1-19
What is the main point? A famine overcame the people of Israel. It is amazing what people will do when they are hungry. It is hard to believe that anyone could sell their child into slavery, but this became a common survival practice. It was a major injustice that Nehemiah, as Governor, corrected. Unfortunately, he didn’t act until he confronted a great outcry from the people. Some things never change.
What does God reveal about Himself? I think He shows His expectation that people should not take advantage of others who are misfortunate and that He expects people to act justly.
What insights into my life? Nehemiah used his wealth and official food allowance to feed as many of the workers as possible. He restricted his aid to those that rebuilt the walls of Jerusalem. I often pray that God would direct me how to best use His abundance. I take from this passage that there is a benefit to contributing to those ministries, which extend the Kingdom of God.
How can I honor God with this information? My co-workers and I have another challenge today. I pray that our conduct will be pleasing to the Lord and that we will work together to accomplish the task that God has prepared for us. I invite God’s Holy Spirit to preside over our meetings.
Where is God working today? I pray that God will continue to knit me with my co-workers to become a force for good.

Keep Building

Good Morning: I have been so busy that I haven’t been able to post any of my daily Bible study notes for many days. At first I felt very guilty, but I then I remembered things that God has taught me in His word and realized that He is in control. So, today’s study is a reminder that whatever we put our hand to do for Christ, we have to expect opposition.

Bible Study, Nehemiah 4:1-23
What is the main point? Opposition to God, His people, and His purpose will always come from various directions until He puts an end to the conflict. We, His people, need to be aware, on guard, watchful, and prepared to fight.
What does God reveal about Himself? He frustrated the plans of His enemies. He worked beyond the builders and caused confusion and fear in the hearts and minds of our physical enemies. I believe He does this to our spiritual enemies too.
What insights into my life? One of the things I pray about each day is that God will frustrate and confuse the plans of our enemies, both foreign and domestic. Another attack on our nation is likely to occur as soon as we let our guard down. I pray that we as a people will be like the builder/warriors of Nehemiah’s day.
How can I honor God with this information? We begin contract negotiations today. I need to listen carefully to our discussions and I pray that I will be sensitive to God’s plan and purpose in this task. The relationships established are more important to Him. So, I pray that I will be His ambassador as well as my company’s representative.
Where is God working today? I pray that He will continue to build the relationship between my customer, my co-workers, and myself just as He helped the builders restore the walls of Jerusalem.

Effective Prayer

Good Afternoon: Today's Bible study message is about effective prayer. I just recently started reading a book titled, "No Holds Barred, Wrestling with God in Prayer" (Book) by Mark D. Roberts. It was strongly recommended by Hugh Hewitt. I hope to write a thorough book review on this work very soon. Prayer must be an essential part of a believer's life, but many, including myself, tend to neglect this area so vital to a vibrant relationship with the Holy Creator of the Universe. As an example, I have allowed work pressure of this day to create tension and frustration. A co-worker noticed and came into my office, shut the door, and asked if it would be okay if we took a minute to pray. I felt like I could not afford to spend the time. But, our God is faithful. Within a few minutes after we started to pray, God calmed me down and let me know that He understands and hasn't left me alone to complete the work.

Bible Study, Nehemiah 1:1-11
What is the main point? God's word is full of models for us today to help us mature in our personal relationship and public declaration of our faith in Him. This section of scripture is another example of how we can pray effectively.
What does God reveal about Himself? He is the keeper of His Word and that He can be depended upon to fulfill His promises. He also is a great teacher, who uses object lessons from life to help us learn what He wants us to understand. Nehemiah used everything he learned to approach the Holy One in prayer in the way God requires.
What insights into my life? I often complain about my nation's leadership and the many sins of our people, but I rarely pray like Nehemiah exemplified in this passage or Daniel did in his day. They actually confessed the peoples' sins as if they were their own. This makes some sense for two reasons: 1. I am a sinner, and 2. we normally do not recognize our sins. Take abortion of example. Many don't think they are committing murder, but defending a personal right (not conferred by the United States Constitution but inferred by the interpretation of mere sinful men).
How can I honor God with this information? I want to remember if not for His grace I would continue to be deceived and enslaved by my sins. It is only by His redeeming work that I can tell the difference. I pray that I will treat pre-Christians with the love and respect they deserve as God's creation, rather than an enemy that must be fought and conquered.
Where is God working today? Now that I have received God's perspective on this day, I pray that I will stay focused to complete the work He has prepared for me to accomplish this day. One task He's shown me to do is to honor a fellow employee who really performed well.

God’s Record Keeping

Good Evening: I finished the book of Ezra this morning. I find it interesting that this last chapter ends so differently than so many other books in the Bible. God commands His people to live a separated life, not intermingled with the ways of world. I have listened to the political arguments put forth by the lying Democratic Party leaders. They claim that they are protecting the interests of the people, but they only have one interest at heart, power, and how to get it back. It is time for the leaders in the Republican Party to act. The Democrats have declared war on our own nation and if we don’t stop them, they will destroy this nation. As in Ezra’s day, it is time to take the roll call and find out who is for us and who is against us in the fight to place judges on the Federal bench that will uphold the Constitution of the United States, not rip it to shreds by letting in blow in the wind of their rhetoric.


Bible Study, Ezra 10:1-44
What is the main point? Living a Godly life is a separated life. There are times when we have to give up, or separate ourselves from those that we think we love in order to please, love, and serve God. This is not an act that should be considered lightly, but given to prayer to hear if this is God’s will. Those that had disobeyed the Lord are named by name. It is unclear if these men truly repented but if is significant that their names are recorded as if they did. We need a recording of our Senators’ names so that we can know where they stand.
What does God reveal about Himself? He takes our oaths seriously, and He expects us to obey His commands and revealed will. If He didn’t spare His chosen people when they sinned, what makes us Americans, who have been so richly blessed by His love and grace, to think that we might be exempt from God’s loving discipline for our national transgressions? We forget that God is a perfect record keeper as exemplified by this passage.
What insights into my life? The older I get the harder it is to live a separated life. I confess that admire Pope John Paul II. He seemed to live a completely separated life to God. I am entangled with so many things and people in this world; I think I am both in the world and of it. Jesus clearly commanded His followers to be in the world, but not of it. The names recorded in this book of the Bible are recorded as an example that God keeps records, but these recorded names in God’s Word are not as important as having our names written in the Lamb’s Book of Life (Rev 21:27).
How can I honor God with this information? I am now asking God to set me free from my entanglements, to show me the things I need to separate from, and to what I need to cling to such as His eternal Words of Life.
Where is God working today? I pray that God will grant me His vision to see where He is working this day so that I may join with him. I pray for courage to write and call my Senators and ask them to give an accounting for the trust that we the people of the United States have entrusted to them. I expect them to fulfill their promise to act, not go to lunch.

Amazing Grace

Good Morning: If not for the grace of God, none would be saved. I am often asked, “Saved from what?” I am grateful that my savior, Yeshua (Jesus), has saved me from my own sins that cause me to do harm (even unknowingly or thinking I’m “doing good”) to others and my offenses against a Holy God. The longer I live, the more I realize that I am incapable of godly behavior unless God lives His life through me. Yeshua has done this impossible work for me and today I have a new opportunity to agree with Him and let Him transform me a bit more into the man He is making me to be for His purposes.

Bible Study, Ezra 9:1-15
What is the main point? God’s people can and do fall into the trap of sinful behavior. Ezra demonstrates a Godly response to the nation’s condition. Instead of joining transgressors or pronouncing judgment, Ezra prays for the people. He acknowledges their sin and petitions God for grace and mercy.
What does God reveal about Himself? He is faithful to keep His promises and He seeks our cooperation in His plan of redemption. In this passage, He shows us that He will listen to our prayers.
What insights into my life? Clearly, I live in a nation that has forsaken God in similar ways as described by Ezra. As the leaders of Israel led the people in sin, many of our national leaders encourage irresponsible sinful behavior and disguise it as protecting civil liberties. They clamor for a voice shouting freedom, but don’t realize that they are leading people into the bitter bondage of sin. Regardless, Ezra didn’t pronounce judgment against his people but asked God to extend His grace and mercy. I will do likewise, but I often wonder if it is too late.
How can I honor God with this information? I pray that God will bring a revival to the United States of America. I ask You, Holy Spirit, to move across this land to encourage people to think about their ways, consider that their sin offends a Holy God, that they need to repent, and that they need a savior, Yeshua (Jesus).
Where is God working today? I pray that I will not be judgmental of those who are trapped in the slavery of sin, for I could fall even this day. Therefore, I ask God to set them free from their bondage and deliver us all from evil.

Prepare For Future Service.

Good Afternoon: I am so grateful for the snow we received yesterday. Here in Colorado, we need all the moisture God will send us. He does take care of His creation, and He takes care of His people.

Bible Study, Ezra 8:24-36
What is the main point? Ezra appoints and dedicates the high priests and prepares them for temple service.
What does God reveal about Himself? He is our protector. He protected the exiles from enemy attacks and ambushes. I’m sure we’ve all experienced a “close-call,” and hopefully realized that God protected us from catastrophe. I wonder how many times He has protected me from harm, and I didn’t even know about it.
What insights into my life? I can trust Him to keep me safe and use me for His purposes.
How can I honor God with this information? I can live with confidence balanced by a greater need to walk in humility before a Holy, righteous God.
Where is God working today? As I prepare for some major events at work, I need not be afraid. All I have to do is go and watch God Work.

Whiter than Snow!

Good Morning: I haven’t been able to post any messages for a couple of days. My technology tools failed me for one, and then life got in the way yesterday. Today, it is snowing and we have already had power spikes that indicate we could be shut off very soon. I hope I can finish typing before we loose power and I loose another day (or more) of posting Bible study messages. When struggles begin like these this passed week, I wonder if God doesn’t want me to spend the time writing for Him, or if the devil is fighting me. I am committed to press on and consecrate this work to Him and trust that God is able to divert my energy if this is not His will.

Book Review: I finished “Love & Respect, The Love She Most Desires, The Respect He Desperately Needs,” by Dr. Emerson Eggerichs, published by Integrity Publishers, A Focus On The Family, Book, 2004. You can order this vital book by clicking on this Love & Respect link. I have read dozens of books and articles, listened to many more messages either in church, recorded media, or radio and television presentations on marriage and husband/wife relationships. I served as the Chairman of the Board for a ministry (Positive Solutions for Marriage) dedicated to strengthening spousal relationships. Also, I perform research for LifeQuality International, a ministry dedicated to helping people live balanced lives, which teaches marriage team building seminars. So, I have committed most of my 32 years of happy-married life to serving God in His institution of marriage. But, this one book is all that any couple needs. Dr. Eggerichs has unveiled the Biblical keys to what will make a marriage successful and one that glorifies God. I give this book a “Must Read” recommendation for anyone who is married, or wants to become married. If husbands and wives will apply the lessons learned in this single volume, if they have a bad marriage it can be turned into a good one, and if they have a good marriage, it can become even better.

Bible Study, Psalm 51:1-19
What is the main point? This passage is an honest prayer. It demonstrates the importance to be honest with God and myself when I pray. The truth is I am a sinner and God knows the depth and breadth of my sin, I do not. I pray for honest behavior everyday according to verse 6.
What does God reveal about Himself? He never turns the repentant man or woman away. On the contrary, He is pleased, and I believe very pleased, with anyone who honestly admits to Him their sin and desires for Him to cleanse them from it.
What insights into my life? This is a good prayer to frequently use when I need to re-connect with my maker. It is a good prayer to use on those days when I don’t know how or where to start praying. When I don’t feel comfortable praying out loud, this is a good Psalm to simply read out loud speaking the words as mine, and then I let His Holy Spirit do His cleansing work. He sets me free.
How can I honor God with this information? I want to live each day with an attitude that pleases Him. It begins with being honest before a Holy God, confessing my known sins to Him, letting His Holy Spirit search me and expose the unknown sins, and then surrendering to His cleansing work to set me free from all sin. I must also remember that there is nothing I can do to remove my ugly, wretched sin from myself. Only His redeeming work (the brutal, cruel suffering and painful crucifixion Jesus endured) is sufficient to pay my sin penalty.
Where is God working today? I pray that God will do such a complete cleansing work in my life that I will reflect verse 7, that I will be so sin free so as to be whiter than the snow that is falling today. I wonder what that would be like to be that free in this life. I long for that freedom and I know that Jesus died for me so that I could have that liberty in Him.

How blessed is the Man!

Good Afternoon - Again: It is getting harder and harder to get this written in the morning. I pray that God will grant me strength today because I am sneezing heavily. I really enjoy Spring. Unfortunately, it is allergy season for me, and the pollens have invaded.

Bible Study, Ezra 7:1-10
What is the main point? This passage records events many years after the temple restoration. Ezra finally makes the trip from Babylon to Jerusalem. The scripture doesn’t tell us why it took him so long to make the journey. It does show that Ezra is a direct descendent from Israel’s first High Priest, Aaron. The key verse is six, God grants Ezra favor. It is too easy to draw a conclusion that because Ezra studies and applied God’s Word that God was obliged to show favor to Ezra. The opposite is true. It is the grace of God (His unmerited favor) that inspires study and personal application of His Word. From gratefulness and recognition that God did not have to show grace and mercy to anyone, least of all me, that I desire to learn as much as I can about the One who loves me with everlasting and ever-faithful love.
What does God reveal about Himself? He chooses when He intervenes in the affairs of men. He keeps track of His people, and at His appointed time, He fulfills His promises to His people.
What insights into my life? Ezra is a man worth emulating. In this passage, I see a practical example of the blessing expressed in Psalm 1:1-3.
How can I honor God with this information? I am blessed. I cannot believe that I consistently receive His grace and mercy. I choose this day to reflect this truth. If I fail, I know that He has fixed His affection on me and that I can come to Him for His peaceful correction, instruction, and encouragement.
Where is God working today? I can expect God’s blessings because it is His nature and character to be gracious. He blesses His undeserving people each new day. Just knowing that my Father, my Lord, my God, my King, my Savior, and my Redeemer loves me is enough to fill me with great joy! I pray that I share His love today.

Everyone is Welcome in God’s Kingdom!

Good Afternoon: Today’s message is going to be real short. I can’t believe how busy (being under Satan’s yoke) life has become.

Bible Study, Ezra 6:13-22
What is the main point? This passage is one of those golden nuggets found in scripture. Verses 16 through 22 show that worshiping God is not exclusive to the children of Israel. Look at verse 16 carefully, and notice the phrase, “and the rest of the exiles.” I wonder if the phrase used there and stated differently later more than once is an indication that gentiles were included in the building, dedication of the Temple, and celebration of Passover?
What does God reveal about Himself? I believe God is letting us know that everyone that seeks Him is welcome in His Kingdom. Also, I believe He expects His followers to practice inclusiveness instead of exclusiveness.
What insights into my life? I pray that God will expose any inappropriate exclusive attitudes that I am unaware of and that He will grant me His grace to repent of this potentially harmful and offensive character.
How can I honor God with this information? God will probably give me many opportunities (even today) to choose between exclusive or inclusive behavior. I pray that He will grant me His wisdom to know when each is appropriate and that my attitude will please Him.
Where is God working today? I had to change this paragraph. As soon as I got to work, I was pounded with customer demands. I could have become defensive, but thanks to God for preparing me with His Word this morning. God never ceases to amaze me how practical and applicable is His Word.

Hidden Truth

Good Morning: Time keeps flying by so I am praying that God will set my priorities and grant me His wisdom and discernment to know when I am being pushed and pulled by the tyranny of the urgent.

Today's helpful Bible study practice is the last step, which is a repeat of the first. Pray again. This time, turn the things you have learned into prayer. Thank God for His greatness and love. Confess your sins to Him. Remember the needs of others. Adore the Lord in His beauty. Go forth to serve Him humbly and with great joy.

Bible Study, Ezra 6:1-12
What is the main point? The investigation recommended in chapter 5 refutes the allegation raised in chapter 4. The work of God is vindicated and the people are now free to carry out God's command. In this case, God worked a quiet miracle and simply unveiled the truth of the matter.
What does God reveal about Himself? God knows where to find the hidden truth. He is able to bring something hidden in darkness or obscurity into the open light of His truth. He is able to grant us His revelation knowledge and understanding, which in my opinion helps me humble myself before Him, and it is much greater than acquired knowledge, which causes me to be filled with pride.
What insights into my life? My daily work requires that I keep accurate records. Here is a practical example of why keeping good records can solve a critical - potential life or death - problem. This reminds me that Terri Schiavo's life might have been spared if a written document existed that declared her true intentions.
How can I honor God with this information? Today, my company will unveil a new software tool that should provide an easy, central repository for maintaining contract records. I hope this will be the case. I won't really know until I've worked with it, but I remain hopeful.
Where is God working today? I pray that I have a supportive attitude because I want my company succeed. More importantly, I don't want to join with the many who pretend to be enlightened, but only spread negative attitudes toward change. I confess, I have been the instigator of these rebellious attitudes before, many times.

Thank God It's Monday

Good Morning: This weekend was eventful. Our family and friends were busy and I could not find any time to write. Looking forward, I believe I will need to plan my time better.

Today’s helpful Bible study practice adds one of the most important steps, personal application. After prayer, careful reading of the Bible passage, reflection on what you have read, consideration of other readings, commentaries, and insights received from other Christians and more contemplation about what God is saying to you, then, apply what God has taught you from the passage to the circumstances of your life – situations at work, home, school, or church. Allow the Holy Spirit to take what you have learned to change you to be more like Jesus.

Bible Study, Ezra 5:1-17
What is the main point? In Chapter 4 we saw how God’s enemies plotted to use legal means to stop the work of God. In this chapter, we see courageous men inspired by the spoken word of God motivated to continue rebuilding the temple in the face of deadly opposition.
What does God reveal about Himself? God knows the schemes of His enemies. He knows how to combat their false accusations with truth, and He inspires His people to act in obedience to His command no matter what the cost.
What insights into my life? It is important for me to remember that there are at least two sides to every story. In Chapter 4 the enemies of God present false accusations, which are not challenged. Consequently, the legal system of that day gave a victory for God’s enemies. In this chapter, God encourages His people to present a rebuttal based on truth. Accordingly, they move forward with fulfilling God’s command.
How can I honor God with this information? I have a customer that is making an unreasonable demand on my company. We have a meeting scheduled with this customer to discuss the matter. I must listen carefully to all points of view and prayerfully, God will grant me His wisdom to make a sound decision that will benefit both companies.
Where is God working today? I pray that God will give me humble spirit to hear the issues we will confront today. I pray that reasonable minds will reach an equitable agreement.

Sorrow and Joy

Good afternoon. The message today is rather long because I am confronted with a Bible passage that challenges me to balance my responsibility with God's Sovereignty. I know that I can do nothing without Christ, but I can do all things with Christ. This is a complex matter. Smarter people than I have wrestled with it for entire lifetimes and have not reached satisfactory conclusions. So, I don't intend to resolve this timeless discussion in one short article. However, I sincerely hope that any readers will take this issue before the Lord in careful and considerate prayer.

This thoughtful struggle leads into today's helpful Bible study practice. After prayer, careful reading of the Bible passage, and reflection on what you have read, consider other readings or commentaries, and insights received from other Christians. Most importantly, continue to think about what God is saying to you.

Bible Study, Ezra 3:1-13
What is the main point? The captives who returned to Israel have worked on the temple construction for two years. At this point, they have completed the temple's foundation. More importantly, they prepared a foundation of obedience to God's word (verses 2 and 10). When they dedicated the foundation, they were filled with that unique emotion of joy that comes when a sinner is released from the captivity of sin, coupled with sorrow from the realization that it was sin that caused God's great grief.
What does God reveal about Himself? God is enthroned upon the praises of His people, Israel (Psalm 22:3). In His presence there is fullness of joy (Psalm 16:11). And He is able to keep us and restore us with great joy, if and when we do fall (Jude 1:24). I believe it brings Him great joy too (Luke 15:10).
What insights into my life? I could easily fall into a trap here. I could wrongly draw a conclusion that somehow the good works performed by the people caused God to respond. I have to frequently remind myself that I can't make God perform to my wishes if I say or do the right things. The simple truth remains that it is by faith I am saved, not by good works (Ephesians 2:8-10).
How can I honor God with this information? This passage causes me to confront my daily challenge. What is my responsibility and what do I leave in God's sovereign hands? I don't like what happened to Terri Schiavo. I think wrong decisions were reached and great harm was caused, needlessly. I believe my responsibility today is to forgive those who I believe did wrong. Also, I must be willing to let God correct my perception because I could be wrong in my judgment of Terri's case because I lack God's wisdom and understanding of the truth.
Where is God working today? This morning I learned that the Pope is not doing well. I pray that God's will, is done with His servant. With this latest news, I believe the Holy Spirit is moving throughout the entire world causing people to deeply consider what they believe about the value of human life. Are we just cosmic dust that happened to come into being without meaning or purpose? Or, are we the beloved handiwork of the Master Creator God who has fixed His unfathomable affection upon us for all eternity? Nothing we can do will cause Him to cease loving His creation or divert Him from His plan and purpose for the redemption of mankind.