Destination Hope - Separation Order Link

The link to ordering my book, Destination Hope - Separation, is posted here: https://www.pleasantwordbooks.com/product.asp?pid=1555&search=Destination+Hope&select=Keywords&ss=1

Destination Hope - Separation

The first book in my Civil War epic series, Destination Hope - Separation is scheduled for release on March 28, 2007.

Book ordering information will be available next week.

Happy New Year!

It is my earnest prayer that everyone I know and anyone who reads this blog will have a Happy and Healthy New Year! Since my last posting, I took time to finish a work of Historical Fiction and prepare it for the market place. For those who might be interested, the story's synopsis follows this paragraph. I posted the link to the Publishing Agency too http://Writersedgeservice.com. The Book Proposal ID # is: PaC8022605. The Writer's Edge Service will place a portion of the manuscript at its web site after the New Year.

Manuscript Synopsis

Destination Hope
By: Charles J. Patricoff

Destination Hope is a five book series of historical fiction set before, during and after the American Civil War. The story targets an adult audience and follows the wartime experience of Nathaniel Thomas Graham, a near-pacifist minister from Nashville, Tennessee who becomes a Confederate Army Chaplain. Throughout this series, Nathaniel finds himself with many opportunities to share the Gospel of Christ while struggling with the issues that separate loved ones and the nation. Nathaniel questions the legitimacy of the newly formed Confederate Government. Is he in rebellion against God's appointed Federal Government? On what Biblical authority can he hold a “Brother-in-Christ” in bondage? The thought of killing a fellow Christian in the name of freedom frightens him. However, he is convinced that a sovereign State has the right of to govern itself and that a political minority should not abolish the constitutionally protected institution of slavery.

Eleanor Ellis of Rockford, Illinois is an idealistic young woman. She loses her father to the war and she will do anything to end it and bring her brothers, Paul and John, home safely. She is convinced that the “Union” is worth preserving, but at what cost. A local suitor, Jason Merritt, Esquire, argues that two nations at peace is better than one at war.

The first book, Separation, begins the wartime horrors for all touched by the war’s savagery. Nathaniel’s personal struggle will surface. The war will intensify, and he grows numb at the loss of many friends. The second book, Emancipation centers on the pivotal battle at Antietam and President Lincoln’s proclamation. On the firing line, Nathaniel faces Union men he knows and he is forced to make hard life or death choices. Eleanor becomes active in the war effort much to the disapproval of family and friends. In the third story, Consolation, all characters suffer bearing the bitter winter of 1863, clashing at Chancellorsville, and colliding at Gettysburg, where Nathaniel suffers a crippling wound. Eleanor begins a quest to find her brothers and discovers compassion for the enemy.

In the fourth book, Liberation, captured Nathaniel spends the rest of the war in a Federal prison camp where he receives clarity to his personal struggle. President Lincoln's Gettysburg Address moves him to consider that maybe all men are created equal, and that maybe man does not have perfect-collective wisdom to decide who is, or who is not, a human being. He faces strong and bitter attitudes in prison more than he encountered on battlefields, and he will learn first hand how easily one group of people can dehumanize another. Eventually he sees that the war is a physical manifestation of a spiritual reality, a fight between light and darkness. He must choose between pursuing vengeance, a better life, or a better hope. Eleanor intensifies her efforts to end the bloody conflict and she works feverously to ensure a favorable outcome for the presidential election of 1864.

After President Lincoln’s assassination and the war’s end, Nathaniel begins a new life with new challenges in a nation reborn and a southern community in desperate need of reconstruction. He is dedicated to Reconciliation, the final book and leg of his journey to Destination Hope.

The Second American Civil War

Good Afternoon: Our nation embraced a philosophy that we refer to as “Freedom of the Press.” Lately, we need a new amendment calling for freedom from the extremely liberal world view single-minded, despotic major mass-media press. This humanistic religious body appears to be above the law. Through the power of their words and images, they caused the death of innocent people and then they hide behind the cloak of the axiom stated above. Who holds them accountable? I know that God is keeping an accurate record and He sees the evil intent residing deep in the hearts of these people who wish to destroy the last beacon of hope for the world. I wonder if those that understand America’s purpose have a duty to engage in a Second Civil War to throw off the self-proclaimed elitist despots who want to control our minds and lives, and reduce our nation to just another European, stand for nothing, country.

Bible Study, Hosea 7:1-16
What is the main point? God explains the reasons for executing judgment upon the people of Israel. Their leaders, both political and religious, plot and perform evil deeds in the name of God, defaming His character among the nations. Also, they abuse the people, and turn to the other nations for help, instead of turning to God. They are disloyal to God, they scheme in secret, and God will expose their hidden evil. Not much has changed. I see similar parallel issues today with many of our governing officials and religious leaders.
What does God reveal about Himself? Nothing is hidden from Him. He will bring into the light of His great love, the wickedness hidden in darkness, so that we, who think we can hide from Him, can and will have many opportunities to repent of our evil intentions and return to be cleansed by the One and only Living God.
What insights into my life? I must always live in the light of God’s Holy Truth. Where can I go to hide from Him who loves me, knows everything about me, and always watches over me? King David asked the same question and concluded that even if he descended into the pit of Hell itself, God would see him even there.
How can I honor God with this information? The media leaders of this nation seem to think that they control the hearts and minds of the American people. They appear to actually want the destruction of America because it stands for: Liberty, a nation under God’s divine authority, and a country where many can become one people. If any of these key ingredients are missing from our culture, we cease to be the land of the free. I pray that God will move across this land by His Holy Spirit and convict us of our desperate need for Him to govern our hearts and minds. I choose to stand for His truth. If we don’t stand Him, we will fall for anything.
Where is God working today? America is at a crossroads. We can see how God pled with Israel to repent. I believe God is pleading with the American people to repent, to turn away from our wickedness, and turn to God and be loyal to Him and to each other.

The Return of Jesus – Fact or Fiction?

Good Morning: I have been thinking about Jesus’ return more than usual lately. I often wonder if this is His Holy Spirit providing a simple reminder that one day the rapture of His church will be a historical fact, or if He is reminding me of my responsibility to be ready. Maybe, it is a combination of the two. I am grateful for passages of scripture that show us that God transcends all physical properties, including time. His Word is trustworthy, proven by approximately six thousand years of recorded history.

Bible Study, Hosea 3:1-5
What is the main point? God speaks to the Children of Israel through Hosea. He foretells what their lives will be like before God completely restores them to Himself. This very brief description reflects contemporary Israel. For example, they occupy some of their God promised land, but their peace and national sovereignty are constantly threatened. Furthermore, they have to barter pieces of their land in exchange for security. This seems like extortion to me. Also at this time, they have no king or prince, they have no temple or articles of worship to perform the required sacrifices. In many respects, they are trapped within their own land, free to live under the constant threat of Palestinian terrorism, but never free to worship God as commanded by His Holy Scriptures.
What does God reveal about Himself? He loves His people even when we show contempt and disrespect, or even outright hatred towards Him.
What insights into my life? I do not understand His love. I pray that I will never take it for granted. I depend on Him everyday, but today I need His direction to address a specific challenge at work that has caused me personal distress. I need to pray and place the situation into His capable hands. I also need to allow His Holy Spirit to search me and reveal to me any wrong attitudes I do not see so that I can repent. Then, I need to wait for Him to provide guidance whether or not I am to take any action. I do not want to take matters into my own hands because I will make the matter much worse.
How can I honor God with this information? I know Jesus is returning soon. This passage of scripture is a reminder of the signs of our times. I believe these personal tests are provided to cleanse me of my hidden sins and to help prepare me for His appearing. He promised to make His bride ready for His return and the soon approaching eternal wedding. I must surrender to His preparation process.
Where is God working today? My work team needs guidance. I need to seek God for His wisdom to help them stay on task, to clearly understand our objective, and to be encouraged to finish our obligations.

God’s Grace is Amazing!

Good Morning: I am amazed at the vial hatred spewed regularly against our President as he attempts to make progress and reforms for our nation. He is trying so hard to correct the self-imposed degeneration of our country. I know that Abraham Lincoln was hated for his efforts to remove the sin of slavery from our land. It cost in lives lost over 600,000 men, women and children. I wonder what our current “bloodless” civil war will cost. I pray that God puts an end to the hatred before we start destroying ourselves a second time. I pray that He will once again shed His grace upon America, reveal to us what is displeasing in His sight, and bring our nation back to its foundation.

Bible Study, Hosea 2:1-13
What is the main point? God warns the nation of Israel one last time before He allows judgment to fall upon them. He almost begs them to repent of their sins and return to a relationship with Him. I wonder if He is sounding the same alarm for our country.
What does God reveal about Himself? He shows His great compassion for His people. However, He will not tolerate Israel’s sin forever. He warned that the people would naturally suffer consequences for their sins. Now that the penalty payment is due, He extends one last measure of His grace.
What insights into my life? The very evil of deception is that I may not recognize my own sin, or sins. I pray that God’s Holy Spirit will expose to me those things that are not pleasing to Him and that are hidden from me. I pray that He will grant me the ability to recognize these hidden transgressions and that He will grant me His grace to commit myself to a deep and true repentance.
How can I honor God with this information? I desire that I display a thankful attitude towards God in every aspect of my life today. We have more critical challenges ahead of us and I pray that God will extend His wisdom to our work team so that we will understand how best to proceed.
Where is God working today? Several members of our work team show signs of a deep need for encouragement. I pray that God will use me to bring that encouragement.

Celebration!

Good Morning: I am amazed at how often what I am currently experiencing in life is reflected in scripture. In today’s Bible Study, the Children of Israel enjoy a celebration that commemorates all their hard work and putting things in proper order. Today, my program work team is going to celebrate what we’ve accomplished together and everyone is looking forward to our evening of fun together. In many ways, we really need this time together because we have some even harder challenges ahead of us, which will even put greater demands on our time, talents, and resources.


Bible Study, Nehemiah 13:1-31
What is the main point? Nehemiah completes the restoration of Israel. He follows-up and makes sure that the priests, leaders, and people are following God’s commandments.
What does God reveal about Himself? God extends His grace to the people and gives them time to order their lives in compliance with His Word.
What insights into my life? Last night, we listened to a message that discussed the priceless value of a “Good Name.” The foundation passage was from Proverbs 22:1, “A good name is to be more desired than great riches, favor is better than silver and gold.” In respect to the passage, I believe the message was clear regarding the importance of having a good reputation personally, but more importantly because we represent the Lord Jesus Christ. In verse 13 of this passage, men were appointed to the temple service because “they were considered reliable.” Tying the two scriptures together, I want to be considered trustworthy of service for my Lord and I realize that if, or when I sin, He won’t cast me immediately into Hell, but I can become disqualified from the privilege to serve Him, and I enjoy serving Him and introducing people to Him.
How can I honor God with this information? Mother’s Day is tomorrow. I need to stop writing and go shopping.
Where is God working today? I pray that God’s Holy Spirit will lead me and guide me to the right gift for Mary who did a near perfect job raising our two children. While I am out shopping, I need to be ready in the market place to follow the lead of the Holy Spirit in the event He directs me to minister to someone in need.

Heritage Record Keeping

Good Morning: Tomorrow, we celebrate our nation’s National Day of Prayer. I sincerely hope that millions of citizens of the United States of America will participate in some measure. I pray that God’s Holy Spirit will move across this land from shore-to-shore, from boarder-to-boarder, and inspire us with God’s principles of: Leadership, Justice, Morals, Family, and Life. I believe that our Nation is at a social cross-roads, a bloodless civil war (so far) that will define us once again as a people that promote God’s Liberty (Leviticus 25:10, Isaiah 61:1, Luke 4:18, and Galatians 5:1), or just another democratic nation that stands for nothing. I believe our nation’s Founding Fathers stated God’s truth when they declared, “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.”


Bible Study, Nehemiah 11:1-36
What is the main point? The Hebrew exiles are identified in accordance with their patriarchal lineage. Several are also identified by both their family line and the service they render for the Lord to His people (verses 17 & 22).
What does God reveal about Himself? It is difficult to see a revelation of God in this passage. However, I am grateful that the people were inspired, I believe by God’s Holy Spirit, to review and prove their heritage. I am certain that as they read and studied God’s Word that they saw that the Messiah would come from the line of David, who came from the line of Abraham, who came from the line of Abraham, the first created son of God. We must express gratitude to the Children of Israel who preserved and protected the Holy Scriptures with their lives. God was going to choose a people for this purpose, and He made His choice. Accordingly, the Children of Israel deserve our love and respect.
What insights into my life? I believe my charge from God is to both preserve and proclaim His Word. This is my main reason for writing this daily journal. I pray that God will open the door so that I can post my journal every day.
How can I honor God with this information? I believe I am living one of the parables Jesus taught. My Business Manger is going on a business trip and he has left me in charge of an important task. I need to stay focused and keep the team on task so that we can complete the assignment on time and to the benefit of our company and customer.
Where is God working today? We are organizing a time of prayer at work tomorrow. I pray that God’s Holy Spirit will draw many to join us.

Thank God it’s Monday

Good Morning: Thank God it’s Monday. I do like saying that phrase because I believe God called me to the market-place-missions field. Also, my wife, Mary, and I just completed a very busy weekend. After being filled up with energy from Christ, it is good to come back to work.

Last night, our church, Faith Bible Chapel of Arvada, Colorado, completed its 27th Annual Israel Awareness Day. This is always a significant event, but this year it was even more special. Dennis Prager was our guest speaker last night. His national radio show can be heard locally on KNUS AM-710. Dennis gave a clear and stirring message that should be heard by everyone who cares about the future of both Israel and the United States of America. If Dennis presented a prepared speech, I couldn’t tell. It appeared to me that he spoke from his heart. I am grateful to God Almighty for sending Dennis to our church and for presenting a strong reminder that the awesome respect of God, our Creator of the Universe, is the beginning of wisdom (Psalms 111:10 & Proverbs 9:10).

Bible Study, Nehemiah 9:32-38
What is the main point? The people completed their long re-statement of Israel’s not too lovely history. I think they recognized the consequences of sin on a national and personal scale. They also proclaim God’s faithfulness. Most importantly, they chose to make a written contract with God declaring their commitment to follow His commandments (verse 38).
What does God reveal about Himself? He is the promise keeper, compared to none. His great goodness is more than anyone can comprehend.
What insights into my life? I do not understand why He continues to bless a selfish, rebellious person, such as myself; but He does, and I am so grateful that He has always cared for me. One of the reasons why I write this daily journal, I see God working in, on, and through my life. His great love is too wonderful to adequately express; however, I will continue to declare His kindness so long as He permits.
How can I honor God with this information? I choose to obey His Holy Word this day and I will declare His truth unto all people.
Where is God working today? I can see that the times of the gentiles are coming to an end. The Children of Israel, no matter where they reside, are becoming more and more connected to God. Soon, and I think it will be very soon, God will remove the temporary veil He has placed over their eyes, and they will become a force for Godliness in the world that has never been seen before.

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.