Meeting Together

Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching. (KJV) ( Hebrews 10:25 ) 

It's easy to get carried away with busy schedules and slip away from going to church. After all, there are only two days in the weekend. But don't let yourself forget the importance of church. Where will you go and who will you turn to in hard times? If you are already established in the church, you will find lots of support.

God Be Near

Be not far from me; for trouble is near; for there is none to help. (KJV) (Psalm 22:11)

When you know you are entering an intense period which challenges your strength, remember to invite your Heavenly Father to walk with you. Who better to walk with you? He is always there to listen, He will bring you blessings when they are most needed, and He has the power to change not only your attitude but others' as well.

Path to Perfection

Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect. (KJV) ( Matthew 5:48 ) 

We all know that we are far from perfect. Perfection doesn't have to be the end goal, but rather a path in the right direction. Are you heading in the right direction? Perfection might be to love someone who has harmed you in the past. That may be a difficult and seemingly impossible thing to do, but have you thought about simply sending them a pleasant card or gift? The important point is to strive to be more God-like by moving in the right direction.

Halfbaked Cake

Ephraim, he hath mixed himself among the people; Ephraim is a cake not turned.  Strangers have devoured his strength, and he knoweth it not: yea, gray hairs are here and there upon him, yet he knoweth not. ( Hosea 7:8-9 ) 

If you're a believer, you know that non-believers surround us all the time. Instead of being influenced by others to do ungodly things, be a light to others by demonstrating godly behavior. We all have a nemesis, or perhaps a not-so-favorite person. Instead of avoiding them or being short with them, give them a compliment or simply say something nice. In other words, be a light!

Snakes and Doves

Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves. (KJV) (Matthew 10:16) 

As much as we should desire to be kind and giving, sometimes it can be difficult to do so in our current culture. We want to be good but don't want to be taken advantage of. Like many things in life, this requires a delicate balance of assertiveness and servitude. If you are heavy on assertiveness, try being a bit more subservient today by allowing others to express themselves more. If you are in need of more assertiveness, try speaking up today, either by asking questions or praising someone.

Gossip (Day 7 of 7)

“Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.”

Ephesians 4:29 KJV

Gossip (Day 6 of 7)

“There is that speaketh like the piercings of a sword: but the tongue of the wise is health.”

Proverbs 12:18 KJV

Gossip (Day 5 of 7)

“Set a watch, O Lord, before my mouth; keep the door of my lips.”

Psalms 141:3 KJV

Gossip (Day 4 of 7)

But shun profane and vain babblings: for they will increase unto more ungodliness.

--2 Timothy 2:16 KJV

Gossip (Day 3 of 7)

Matthew 12:35-36

A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things: and an evil man out of the evil treasure bringeth forth evil things.

But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment.

Gossip (Day 2 of 7)

Proverbs 26:20-22 --

“Where no wood is, there the fire goeth out: so where there is no talebearer, the strife ceaseth.

“As coals are to burning coals, and wood to fire; so is a contentious man to kindle strife.

“The words of a talebearer are as wounds, and they go down into the innermost parts of the belly.”

Gossip (Day 1 of 7)

“A froward man soweth strife: and a whisperer separateth chief friends.”

Proverbs 16:28 KJV

Loose lips sink ships. Hung by the tongue. Open mouth; insert foot. There are so many phrases that describe the dangers of not having control of your mouth and the things you say. Gossip is no exception. Gossip is one of those things that is so easy to justify especially if we have been hurt. Here are two basic principles for gossip: Those that gossip to you will also gossip about you. And, if you are not a part of the solution, you shouldn't be talking. Is God really that concerned about gossip? Does He really care about what we say? Take a look at God's Word to learn how to use your words!

Tempted by Entitlement

Then Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan River. He was led by the Spirit in the wilderness, where he was tempted by the devil for forty days. Jesus ate nothing all that time and became very hungry. (NLT) ( Luke 4:1-2 ) 

Just as Jesus was tempted by the devil, we too are constantly tempted. Temptation in our lives may not be so obvious because we may be unaware that it’s harming us. It could simply be a lack of appreciation. Sometimes we take things for granted when we feel entitled to something. While the devil wants you to feel entitled, our loving God wants you to count your blessings.

Favoritism

My dear brothers and sisters, how can you claim to have faith in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ if you favor some people over others?" (NLT) ( James 2:1 ) 

If we truly want to follow God, it's important to not be prejudice against some and show favoritism towards others.  Let's show respect to everyone, regardless of their profession, race, abilities, or financial status.  God loves everyone, who are we to treat people differently?  We might notice a change in our own lives when we respect everyone. 

I Think Of You

I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, (KJV) ( Philippians 1:3 ) 

Is there someone who at one time or another pushed you along that led to your current success? Perhaps they encouraged you to go back to school. Or maybe they were a reference who vouched for your potential. It could have even been someone who consistently encouraged you. Take a moment to thank them. Without their thoughtfulness, your life wouldn't have been the same.

Path To Take

In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. (KJV) ( Proverbs 3:6 ) 

Usually we reserve the big decisions for God to throw in His two cents, such as job options, marriage partner, and moving possibilities.  Yet we are quick to make "smaller" decisions without giving any thought to God's will.  Where we spend our time, who we spend it with, and the words we say are decisions we make daily, but don't think twice about inviting God into the process.  It's quite possibly these smaller decisions which make a greater impact on our lives when we ask God to show us His will.  The next time you make a decision, invite God.

Are Honorable

Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men. (KJV) ( Romans 12:17 ) 

It happens fairly often, someone will be inconsiderate or mistreat you.  In that split moment you have one of two options.  You can choose to return evil or you can be honorable.  Your response is a reflection of how you view God.  If you think God will stand by and let this go unnoticed, you will respond with evil.  Or if you believe God's righteous anger will pay them back, you will respond honorably and leave the rest up to God.  How will you choose to respond in the moment you face mistreatment?

Less and Less

He [Jesus] must increase, but I must decrease. (KJV) ( John 3:30 ) 

It's so natural for us to focus on our accomplishments and want to bolster our image. The problem with this thinking is it's selfish. When we focus on humbling ourselves, we step aside and let Christ shine. How can we become less important? A few steps can make a difference such as seeking others' opinions or not being afraid to make mistakes. In addition, allowing Jesus to become a greater influence in our lives increases His importance to us. Open yourself up to increasing God and decreasing yourself.

Care Of You

Cast thy burden upon the LORD, and he shall sustain thee: he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved. (KJV) ( Psalm 55:22 ) 

When you are overwhelmed and troubled by fear and anxiety, turn to the Lord.  It is difficult to do in the face of hardships.  But God will honor your faithfulness.  Identify an area in which you worry and tell God you will turn it over to Him.  When you find yourself circling your thoughts around in worry, stop those thoughts, because they will plant seeds of doubt.  Your God will take care of you.  Worrying only discredits your faith that God will protect you.

Human Anger

For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God. (KJV) ( James 1:20 ) 

What is human anger?  It's anger that occurs when someone rubs against our pride or selfishness.  God still wants us to get angry, but for the right reasons such as the injustice of orphans or widows.  Learn to temper your selfish anger.  When you feel yourself getting angry because your feelings are hurt, swallow it and focus your mind on something else.  Stewing in your anger only produces more anger.  Practice refocusing your mind as many times as needed.

Instructions

Cease, my son, to hear the instruction that causeth to err from the words of knowledge. (KJV) ( Proverbs 19:27 ) 

Is there someone in your life you have stopped listening to?  If they are repeating the same thing over again, perhaps try listening to them.  Usually, there is some wisdom that you have overlooked and need to pay attention to it.  No one is ever too old to hear advice from others.  Instruction is given out of love.  Try receiving it with love.  

Require of You

And now, Israel, what doth the LORD thy God require of thee, but to fear the LORD thy God, to walk in all his ways, and to love him, and to serve the LORD thy God with all thy heart and with all thy soul, (KJV) ( Deuteronomy 10:12 ) 

When it comes down to it, God is asking that we love Him.  Many people think they have to get their life in order before they can become a Christian.  But really, God isn't asking much, except for your heart to love Him.  When you align your heart towards God, you naturally change your life because you love His ways.  Changing your life isn't a requirement to love God, instead, it is a result of your love for God.

Always Responsible

Then the presidents and princes sought to find occasion against Daniel concerning the kingdom; but they could find none occasion nor fault; forasmuch as he was faithful, neither was there any error or fault found in him. (KJV) ( Daniel 6:4 ) 

Daniel conducted himself in an honorable manner where no fault could be found by his coworkers. Do your coworkers describe your work ethic as faithful, responsible, and completely trustworthy? If not, what changes do you need to make in your work life? Perhaps create a new calendar system, or breaking down overwhelming projects into manageable chunks, or communicating more with others. If you need to make a change, what better day than to start today?

Deserted Ruins

And they that shall be of thee shall build the old waste places: thou shalt raise up the foundations of many generations; and thou shalt be called, The repairer of the breach, The restorer of paths to dwell in. (KJV) (Isaiah 58:12) 

Every city has deserted ruins left from poverty, drugs, or hopelessness.  We can choose to keep walking or we can choose to restore.  While our spiritual gift may not be in renovating homes, we all have gifts that can restore a community in some way. What bonds have you overcome (depression, addiction, anxiety, etc) that you can bring healing to others?

To Strangers

Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares. (KJV) ( Hebrews 13:2 ) 

Is it possible an angel has dined at your table?  Have you ever shown hospitality to a stranger?  If the answer is yes, well done faithful servant!  Imagine how believers would be received among nonbelievers if we had a reputation of showing uncommon kindness to strangers.  What are some thoughtful ways you could show hospitality to strangers this week?

Are You Afraid?

And he said unto them, Why are ye so fearful? how is it that ye have no faith? (KJV) ( Mark 4:40 ) 

The disciples had been with Jesus enough to see many miracles done but yet they underestimated the power He had to control the wind.  You may not be aware of your fears, but they drive at the heart of your words, actions, and attitudes.  Take a moment and think about your fears.  Now, think about each time Jesus has performed miracles in your life.  When you uncover your fears and approach them with His past faithfulness, your fears will lose all control.  Do you allow your fears to overtake your faith?

Who Deserves

Withhold not good from them to whom it is due, when it is in the power of thine hand to do it. (KJV) (Proverbs 3:27) 

Is there anybody who doesn't deserve good? Honestly, no. Grace enters the equation where everyone is made in the image of God. No matter what someone has done, we are called to do good.  What does it look like for you? Maybe it's lending your tools out, perhaps it's aiding an older person to figure out their medicine, or being an exercise partner to a neighbor. What good would you like done for you? Now, choose to do that for someone else today.

Present Troubles

For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; (KJV) ( 2 Corinthians 4:17 ) 

As big as our problems may seem, we are always bound to find someone whose problems are bigger.  In some small way it is comforting to know our troubles won't last long in comparison to eternity.  Yet, the glory we gain for our troubles is much greater and lasts forever.  Be consoled in knowing your hardships make Christ's suffering for you even more personal, He knows what you are walking through.  When your troubles get too big, look beyond this life and see Christ up close and personal.

Special Skill

And I, behold, I have given with him Aholiab, the son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan: and in the hearts of all that are wise hearted I have put wisdom, that they may make all that I have commanded thee; (KJV) (Exodus 31:6) 

Do you ever get down on yourself and think you don't have any skills to offer?  It's not true, God has given you many skills.  Thinking you don't have any skills is not humility, instead, you fail to correctly see your blessings given to you by God.  We even devalue our skills when we compare ourselves to others and wish we had their skills.  Those thoughts are not complimenting towards God either.  God has given skills to everyone and by embracing them we can truly use our skills to worship God.  Take a moment to correctly identify your skills and embrace them to honor God.

To Others

And I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless thee, and make thy name great; and thou shalt be a blessing: (KJV) ( Genesis 12:2 ) 

This passage gives us great insight into God view's on blessings. He blesses people and gives them a position of influence so they can share their blessings to others. He blesses us to show us His love for us and so that we can share His love to others. We often think that blessings are for our exclusive use, but that is not the case. Our selfish inclinations keep us from blessing others, but is there anything we can do to combat that? It could be as simple as bringing a friend along when you use a gift card. Or as extravagant as selling your treasures to benefit a needy family.

A Good Man

Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a publick example, was minded to put her away privily. (KJV) ( Matthew 1:19 ) 

Mary became pregnant with Jesus after she was engaged to Joseph.  Imagine how Joseph must have felt when he learned his fiancee was pregnant, not knowing who the father was.  Anger, bitterness, and betrayal had to have been stirring in his heart.  He was justified to publicly stone her for her actions.  Yet, being the man he was, he chose to quietly walk away.  Fortunately, an angel stepped in and set him straight about the Father.  When you feel anger, bitterness, betrayal and have every right to retaliate, how can you extend grace and mercy to your circumstances?

Plunge Ahead

A wise man feareth, and departeth from evil: but the fool rageth, and is confident. (KJV) (Proverbs 14:16) 

Do you ever get frustrated when your lack of self-control plunges you into danger? Hindsight comes and you kick yourself for being foolish. How do wise people avoid danger? They are aware of their triggers that cause a moment of weakness, such as a being angry. Often they avoid putting themselves in situations that would tempt their recklessness, as a recovering alcoholic avoids bars. Finally, they limit exposure to friends who encourage unwise choices. Which areas in life do you struggle with self-control?

Pleasing People

For do I now persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ. (KJV) (Galatians 1:10) 

Anyone else a people pleaser? We twist the truth and believe God is pleased with us when we please other people. In reality, God loves us no matter what we do. Anything else is called conditional love. God loves us unconditionally, even when we don't do the right thing. This doesn't mean we walk around sinning because we know God still loves us. If we are seeking acceptance from people rather than God, is that where we want to place our self-worth? Be on the lookout today to notice if you seek acceptance apart from God. If so, how can you change this?

To Be First

And he sat down, and called the twelve, and saith unto them, If any man desire to be first, the same shall be last of all, and servant of all. (KJV) (Mark 9:35) 

In the Kingdom of God things don't work like they do here. On earth, we are told you need to use people in order to be successful. Yet, being successful in the Kingdom of God means serving others first. Isn't it true we value leaders the most who think for others, work for everyone, and take risks for those they lead? Actually, each one of us is already a leader among our friends, coworkers, children, and family. How could you be a servant leader among those who follow you?

Return to Egypt

And it came to pass, when Pharaoh had let the people go, that God led them not through the way of the land of the Philistines, although that was near; for God said, Lest peradventure the people repent when they see war, and they return to Egypt: (KJV) (Exodus 13:17) 

Rather than take the shortest, most direct route to the Promised Land, the Lord took them on a longer path to avoid the Philistines.  Why? God knew they were weak and if forced with choosing between a battle or slavery they would rather be a slave.  Are there situations where we choose to be a slave rather than battle?  We can be slaves to our guilt, bitterness, or blame rather than do the work to be freed.  Have you chosen to be a slave to your blame and resentment rather than do the work to forgive?

Clothe Yourselves

Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; (KJV) (Colossians 3:12) 

What would it look like if believers took this verse to heart? The business world would be a different place, driving during rush hour would be a different experience, and so too our own homes would be different. The world would be a better place. Do you think the world needs more mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, or patience? Choose one of these clothes and focus on wearing it this week.

By Himself

And when he had sent them away, he departed into a mountain to pray. (KJV) (Mark 6:46) 

Prior to this verse Jesus had performed a miracle by feeding thousands with only a bit of food.  His immediate reaction is to draw away to pray and rest.  Praying has a way of filling you up with energy, restoring, and recharging.  It's very important if we have intense schedules or physically demanding duties, we take time to reconnect with God and restore ourselves.  If you are able, take today to draw away, in order to draw close to the Lord.  If today isn't possible, plan a day this week to do this.

Just As Damaging

As a mad man who casteth firebrands, arrows, and death, So is the man that deceiveth his neighbour, and saith, Am not I in sport? (KJV) (Proverbs 26:18-19) 

We do this carelessly every day, make a negative comment towards someone and brush it off as a joke.  However this is a treacherous act that is damaging to that friend and any onlookers who think of you as a friend.  Sift your joke through the filter of love and warmth and avoid using jokes as a weapon.

Least Expected

Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh. (KJV) ( Matthew 24:44 ) 

Ever had a pop quiz where a teacher surprisingly hands out a quiz without any notice?  If you have been studying and following along then you find yourself prepared for the unexpected.  The same is true for Christ's return in that we have no way of knowing when it will happen.  Are you making choices and living in a manner that means you are prepared for the unexpected return of Christ?

Seeds of Deeds

The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life; and he that winneth souls is wise. (KJV) ( Proverbs 11:30 ) 

Has someone done something thoughtful for you lately?  Have they gone out of their way for you?  It's easy to keep moving on or get busy and forget about recognizing them.  However, it's important to express to them your grateful heart.  Put a little thought into how you want to express your gratitude through friendship.

Gently Instruct

In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth; (KJV) ( 2 Timothy 2:25 ) 

No one likes to be told they are wrong, but yet we are encouraged to share the truth.  It's important to focus on thoughtfully and gently sharing truth with people who oppose.  Gentle truth may not necessarily come in the form of words.  It can be shared through kindness, hospitality, actions, sacrifice, which can speak louder than words while God is working on their hearts.

Scoffers Will Come

Knowing this first, that there shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts, (KJV) ( 2 Peter 3:3 ) 

Days will come when we hear, read, or see scoffers who mock our beliefs.  Hold firmly to your faith.  Everyone will meet the Lord and account for their actions.  You can stand firm in knowing your faith is stronger than the words of a cynic.  Have you strengthened and grown your faith to withstand the pressures from nonbelievers?

Rebuilder

And they that shall be of thee shall build the old waste places: thou shalt raise up the foundations of many generations; and thou shalt be called, The repairer of the breach, The restorer of paths to dwell in. (KJV) ( Isaiah 58:12 ) 

Living in a broken world means bad things happen to us. We have the choice of allowing those bad things to take shape in our heart and become deserted ruins. Or we can choose to pick up the pieces, confront, forgive, extend grace, and heal. Through a relationship with Christ, you have the power to rebuild families, overcome hurts, and restore relationships. Will you choose to be a rebuilder or be owned by bitterness?

Right Time

Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: (KJV) ( 1 Peter 5:6 ) 

Pride is a difficult, thorny root that slowly takes hold in your heart.  It's deceptive and is difficult to perceive let alone conceive its presence in our lives.  Do you trust that the Lord will honor you at the right time?  Failure to trust that God will honor you will lead you to boast to yourself and others about your greatness.  As you walk through your day, keep an eye out for any roots that may trip you up.

For Me

The LORD is on my side; I will not fear: what can man do unto me? (KJV) ( Psalm 118:6 ) 

Fear, it leads to worry and obsession.  It causes us to overreact or become paralyzed with inaction.  When you feel the anxiety rising up in your throat and constant reminders abound to keep your broken record of thoughts swirling around, fear not.  For the Lord is with you.  If you seek Him, He will provide peace, comfort, and understanding.  When the fear begins to rise up, conquer it!  Do not let fear reign over you.  The Lord is more powerful than fear.

Deep Distress

Turn thee unto me, and have mercy upon me; for I am desolate and afflicted.  The troubles of my heart are enlarged: O bring thou me out of my distresses. (KJV) ( Psalm 25:16-17 ) 

Nothing is more disturbing than being in distress and all alone.  Isn't this why people who don't believe in God turn to Him when there is no where else to turn?  We don't have to walk alone though.  God is literally dying for you to turn to Him for help with your problems.  It doesn't take much. Just pray for God to guide and lead you in the right direction.

To Everyone

As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith. (KJV) ( Galatians 6:10 ) 

Who wants to be taken advantage of?  No one.  However, we are called to do good to everyone and not be selective in who we serve.  Do you let fear of exploitation of your generosity keep you from sharing with others?  It's a good thing Jesus didn't have this fear when He chose to die on the cross for sins He knew we would commit again and again.

Words

He that keepeth his mouth keepeth his life: but he that openeth wide his lips shall have destruction. (KJV) ( Proverbs 13:3 ) 

Do you measure your words carefully?  Do you filter and refine them before throwing them out for all to hear?  Much can be communicated between words such as attitudes, values, and perceptions.  Even as simple as changing a word can mean all the difference between offending someone or finessing a situation.  It's easy to launch words for all to hear, but impossible to take them back.  Yes, opening your mouth can ruin everything.

Gold Jewelry

As an earring of gold, and an ornament of fine gold, so is a wise reprover upon an obedient ear. (KJV) ( Proverbs 25:12 ) 

Criticism can be tough to swallow.  What if criticism were viewed as a prized possession that's wrapped with great care, presented with honor, and accepted with gratitude?  The verse above points out that valid criticism only becomes precious to anyone who listens.  When you listen to criticism are you listening for negativity or constructive gold?

Your Mess

Happy is he that hath the God of Jacob for his help, whose hope is in the LORD his God: (KJV) (Psalm 146:5) 

Where do you turn when your life turns into a mess?  How do you pick up the pieces?  A mess is always easier to clean when you have someone helping you.  God is just waiting for you to invite Him into your mess.

My Shield

"The Lord is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower." —Psalm 18:2

A rock provides firm footing and a solid foundation. When it's easy to just give up and we face tough times, who or what do you turn to when you have a tough day? Seek shelter and put your feet on firm footing. Ask God to be the power that saves you.

A Spirit Of...

For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. (KJV) (2 Timothy 1:7) 

Do you have a lot of worries over circumstances you cannot control?  Dear friend, one ounce of worry doesn't do an ounce of good.  Letting worry creep in means you are giving control of the situation over to a spirit of fear.  If you find yourself worrying about something, stop and occupy your mind in a way that solves the problem.  Better yet, get your hands busy and put on a spirit of love by serving others.

Many Will Say

Most men will proclaim every one his own goodness: but a faithful man who can find? (KJV) (Proverbs 20:6) 

Words are easy to say, it only takes a breath to utter them.  But it's much more difficult to be a reliable friend.  It requires consistent communication, thoughtful awareness of feelings, and opening yourself up in vulnerable times.  Don't be too quick to say you are a loyal friend who is without any reliable friends. Have you been supporting your friends in a way that shows them you are reliable?  If not, do you have a valued friend who needs you right now?

Without Faith

But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him. (KJV) (Hebrews 11:6) 

When something bad happens to you, and you have faith in God, your attitude changes.  You begin to figure out why God wants you to go through tough times and what He wants you to learn from it.  When you see that bad situation happened for a reason, you begin to trust God even more.  Eventually, you want to allow Him into more areas of your life.  Sincerely seek the Lord today in prayer.

A lamp

Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. (KJV) (Matthew 5:15) 

You have a light inside of yourself. You have the capability to spread light to many people. Do you hide your talents, gifts, and abilities? Put your light on a stand and let everyone benefit from the light you give off. You sure can make a difference in the world by lighting up for everyone else.