Well, I came across this scripture in Matthew 6:6 this morning - it says the following:
But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.
I am being prompted that perhaps I need to keep my prayers between the Lord and myself. I will continue to do my daily devo's and greatly encourage any of you reading this to continue on and do the same.
A few months ago I was really led to start this daily Bible blog and am now feeling like I should not continue it, at least in the format that I have been doing it - which is the SOAP (Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer).
I would love feedback from anyone reading this as to what you think. In any case I am always here to help, encourage, etc. my fellow brothers and sisters and those who are searching.
Even if I do not continue this BLOG I will post the daily Bible reading plan on my Facebook account under my 'notes' section and you can also see the link to our church's webpage to get a copy of that daily Bible reading plan there. The daily reading plan and morning devo have changed my life and I cannot stress enough how important that it is. My great prayer for you is that you embark on a journey similar to the one I started back in December and get in God's Word and let Him speak to you.
Looking forward to your feedback and may God's love and blessing be yours forever,
In His service,
Dave Nuber
Monday, April 19, 2010
Saturday, April 17, 2010
SOAP - 1 Samuel 19; 1 Chronicles 7; Psalm 59; Matthew 4
(S)cripture-
Matthew 4:19 "Come, follow me," Jesus said, "and I will make you fishers of men."
(O)bservation-
This was the call to the first two of Jesus' 12 disciples. Jesus was the ultimate leader and wanted His disciples to follow Him and not only hear what He had to say. Without hesitation, the disciples dropped what they were doing and followed Jesus to the calling of ministry for the Kingdom of God.
(A)pplication-
This verse has a two-fold meaning for me. First, I will follow Jesus and learn from Him, exhibiting what it means to be a true disciple and a fisher of men in spreading the Gospel. Second, I want to be like Jesus in that I would help others to become disciples of Christ and fishers of men. As believers, if we can follow this model then we will ultimately fulfill our calling and the Great Commission to evangelize the world.
(P)rayer-
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your Son Jesus who boldly calls us all to follow Him and become fishers of men. Since this our true calling and should be the end to everything we do, help us to not take this lightly but commit fully to it. Lord, I give You everything and help me through Your Holy Spirit to be obedient and faithful to that which You would have me do for the sake of Your Kingdom. In Jesus' Holy Name I pray, Amen.
Matthew 4:19 "Come, follow me," Jesus said, "and I will make you fishers of men."
(O)bservation-
This was the call to the first two of Jesus' 12 disciples. Jesus was the ultimate leader and wanted His disciples to follow Him and not only hear what He had to say. Without hesitation, the disciples dropped what they were doing and followed Jesus to the calling of ministry for the Kingdom of God.
(A)pplication-
This verse has a two-fold meaning for me. First, I will follow Jesus and learn from Him, exhibiting what it means to be a true disciple and a fisher of men in spreading the Gospel. Second, I want to be like Jesus in that I would help others to become disciples of Christ and fishers of men. As believers, if we can follow this model then we will ultimately fulfill our calling and the Great Commission to evangelize the world.
(P)rayer-
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your Son Jesus who boldly calls us all to follow Him and become fishers of men. Since this our true calling and should be the end to everything we do, help us to not take this lightly but commit fully to it. Lord, I give You everything and help me through Your Holy Spirit to be obedient and faithful to that which You would have me do for the sake of Your Kingdom. In Jesus' Holy Name I pray, Amen.
Friday, April 16, 2010
SOAP - 1 Samuel 18; 1 Chronicles 6; Psalm 11; Matthew 3
(S)cripture-
1 Samuel 18:14 In everything he did he had great success, because the Lord was with him.
(O)bservation-
David was a man after God's heart and committed himself fully to obeying and serving Him - this is what gave him success.
(A)pplication-
I want to be successful like David was; not success on my terms but God's terms and in His timing. Success to me would be to use the gifts I've been blessed with and use them to fulfill His purpose for my life and perform the work of His Kingdom with everything I have and to the best of my ability. The goal is that when I stand before Him one day that He would say 'Well done good and faithful servant'.
(P)rayer-
Father, thank You for Your great gift of eternal life through You Son Jesus and that our future is secure. While I am on this earth help me to achieve success on Your eyes - to fulfill Your calling and purpose and to do Your will not mine. Please always be with me and lead me through Your Holy Spirit with power that I would stay on the path to success and have the strength, courage, and conviction to win for Your Kingdom. I love and praise You and pray these things in Jesus' name. Amen.
1 Samuel 18:14 In everything he did he had great success, because the Lord was with him.
(O)bservation-
David was a man after God's heart and committed himself fully to obeying and serving Him - this is what gave him success.
(A)pplication-
I want to be successful like David was; not success on my terms but God's terms and in His timing. Success to me would be to use the gifts I've been blessed with and use them to fulfill His purpose for my life and perform the work of His Kingdom with everything I have and to the best of my ability. The goal is that when I stand before Him one day that He would say 'Well done good and faithful servant'.
(P)rayer-
Father, thank You for Your great gift of eternal life through You Son Jesus and that our future is secure. While I am on this earth help me to achieve success on Your eyes - to fulfill Your calling and purpose and to do Your will not mine. Please always be with me and lead me through Your Holy Spirit with power that I would stay on the path to success and have the strength, courage, and conviction to win for Your Kingdom. I love and praise You and pray these things in Jesus' name. Amen.
Thursday, April 15, 2010
SOAP - 1 Samuel 17; Psalm 9; Matthew 2
(S)cripture-
1 Samuel 17:50 So David triumphed over the Philistine with a sling and a stone: without a sword in his hand he struck down the Philistine and killed him.
(O)bservation-
God can do anything in those who trust and serve Him faithfully. Against huge odds this shepherd boy armed with only a sling and a stone killed Goliath, a huge warrior over nine feet tall and fully dressed in battle armor and traditional weapons of war.
(A)pplication-
I will trust in God that no matter how long the odds are according to human perspective in any situation, that they are not too great for Him. He is all powerful and can do anything, using anyone to do His will.
(P)rayer-
Father, I trust in You and love You. Help me to always be obedient to Your calling no matter what lies in front of me. Please lead me through Your Holy Spirit with His power and please grant me strength and courage to carry out Your divine will. Thank You Lord for Your love and blessing and help me to glorify Your Holy Name. Amen.
1 Samuel 17:50 So David triumphed over the Philistine with a sling and a stone: without a sword in his hand he struck down the Philistine and killed him.
(O)bservation-
God can do anything in those who trust and serve Him faithfully. Against huge odds this shepherd boy armed with only a sling and a stone killed Goliath, a huge warrior over nine feet tall and fully dressed in battle armor and traditional weapons of war.
(A)pplication-
I will trust in God that no matter how long the odds are according to human perspective in any situation, that they are not too great for Him. He is all powerful and can do anything, using anyone to do His will.
(P)rayer-
Father, I trust in You and love You. Help me to always be obedient to Your calling no matter what lies in front of me. Please lead me through Your Holy Spirit with His power and please grant me strength and courage to carry out Your divine will. Thank You Lord for Your love and blessing and help me to glorify Your Holy Name. Amen.
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
SOAP - 1 Samuel 15, 16; 1 Chronicles 5, Matthew 1
(S)cripture-
Matthew 1:21 She will give birth to a son and you are to give Him the name Jesus, because He will save His people from their sins.
(O)bservation-
This dream Joseph had confirmed the prophecy written in Isaiah. Even though Joseph had secretly planned to divorce Mary when he found that she had become pregnant he changed his mind as a result of what the Lord told him in the dream. He obeyed in faith, beyond his own understanding, and gave Mary's son the name Jesus - the name above all names and Savior from our sins.
(A)pplication-
I desire to have the faith and obedience of Joseph - to trust God and do His will when He speaks to me even if it is beyond my human understanding. Praise God for His Son Jesus who came to this world to save us and I want to be able to share this message with others.
(P)rayer-
Lord God, thank You for sending Your Son to save us - for Your great gift that redeemed us back to You. Help me to model Joseph in my faith and obedience and in doing so that I would carry out Your will and bring You glory. I love and praise You and in the name of Jesus Christ I pray, Amen.
Matthew 1:21 She will give birth to a son and you are to give Him the name Jesus, because He will save His people from their sins.
(O)bservation-
This dream Joseph had confirmed the prophecy written in Isaiah. Even though Joseph had secretly planned to divorce Mary when he found that she had become pregnant he changed his mind as a result of what the Lord told him in the dream. He obeyed in faith, beyond his own understanding, and gave Mary's son the name Jesus - the name above all names and Savior from our sins.
(A)pplication-
I desire to have the faith and obedience of Joseph - to trust God and do His will when He speaks to me even if it is beyond my human understanding. Praise God for His Son Jesus who came to this world to save us and I want to be able to share this message with others.
(P)rayer-
Lord God, thank You for sending Your Son to save us - for Your great gift that redeemed us back to You. Help me to model Joseph in my faith and obedience and in doing so that I would carry out Your will and bring You glory. I love and praise You and in the name of Jesus Christ I pray, Amen.
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
SOAP - 1 Samuel 14; 1 Chronicles 4; 2 Corinthians 13
(S)cripture-
2 Cor 13:14 May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.
(O)bservation-
It is important to remember and acknowledge the Trinity - Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Our Lord exists in these three Persons and it is a delightful mystery that cannot be explained or understood in terms of human rationalization. Rather, as Christians we experience and know each of these person in a special way through reading of the Scriptures, prayer, worship, and fellowship.
(A)pplication-
I want to know more deeply each of the three Persons of the Lord. I have been a Christian my whole life and have mostly known God and Jesus, but the Holy Spirit has been mysterious and relatively unknown to me. Only in the last few months, after a meeting with a pastor at church, have I really started to know more who the Holy Spirit is and that I can fellowship with Him. This is an exciting time in my life as I come to know Him more and more.
(P)rayer-
Father, You are so amazing. You desire for us to know You more and I pray with all my heart and soul that I will be able to do that - to know You just a little better and reflect more of who You are every day. Thank You for the Holy Trinity - for each of Your Persons who show us grace, love, and fellowship and may we as believers be able to know You better as we carry out Your plan on this earth until we are called home to You. I love and praise You and pray these things in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Amen.
2 Cor 13:14 May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.
(O)bservation-
It is important to remember and acknowledge the Trinity - Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Our Lord exists in these three Persons and it is a delightful mystery that cannot be explained or understood in terms of human rationalization. Rather, as Christians we experience and know each of these person in a special way through reading of the Scriptures, prayer, worship, and fellowship.
(A)pplication-
I want to know more deeply each of the three Persons of the Lord. I have been a Christian my whole life and have mostly known God and Jesus, but the Holy Spirit has been mysterious and relatively unknown to me. Only in the last few months, after a meeting with a pastor at church, have I really started to know more who the Holy Spirit is and that I can fellowship with Him. This is an exciting time in my life as I come to know Him more and more.
(P)rayer-
Father, You are so amazing. You desire for us to know You more and I pray with all my heart and soul that I will be able to do that - to know You just a little better and reflect more of who You are every day. Thank You for the Holy Trinity - for each of Your Persons who show us grace, love, and fellowship and may we as believers be able to know You better as we carry out Your plan on this earth until we are called home to You. I love and praise You and pray these things in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Amen.
Monday, April 12, 2010
SOAP - 1 Samuel 13; 1 Chronicles 2, 3; 2 Corinthians 12
(S)cripture-
2 Cor. 12:10 That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.
(O)bservation-
In any worldly hardship we can draw strength knowing that we are covered by the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, which is sufficient to cover everything. It is only through Him that we are strong in all things and in weakness Christ's power is made perfect. Without weakness and hardship we would not know how much we need Him.
(A)pplicaiton-
In times of weakness I draw upon the grace of Christ to strengthen me. By these trials and hardships we are refined by the process and receive the power of Christ to strengthen us and become more like Him. For this reason, even though they are unpleasant, I welcome the trials of life as an opportunity to grow and become more like my Savior.
(P)rayer-
Father, please continue to do Your refining and purifying work in my life. Thank You for Your Son Jesus whose grace is sufficient to cover everything. Help me as I go through the trials of this world and to remain strong and be a great witness to others - to carry out the work of Your Kingdom regardless of my personal circumstance. I love and praise You in Jesus name, Amen.
2 Cor. 12:10 That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.
(O)bservation-
In any worldly hardship we can draw strength knowing that we are covered by the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, which is sufficient to cover everything. It is only through Him that we are strong in all things and in weakness Christ's power is made perfect. Without weakness and hardship we would not know how much we need Him.
(A)pplicaiton-
In times of weakness I draw upon the grace of Christ to strengthen me. By these trials and hardships we are refined by the process and receive the power of Christ to strengthen us and become more like Him. For this reason, even though they are unpleasant, I welcome the trials of life as an opportunity to grow and become more like my Savior.
(P)rayer-
Father, please continue to do Your refining and purifying work in my life. Thank You for Your Son Jesus whose grace is sufficient to cover everything. Help me as I go through the trials of this world and to remain strong and be a great witness to others - to carry out the work of Your Kingdom regardless of my personal circumstance. I love and praise You in Jesus name, Amen.
Sunday, April 11, 2010
SOAP - 1 Samuel 11, 12; 1 Chronicles 1; 2 Corinthians 11
(S)cripture-
1 Sam. 12:24 But be sure to fear the Lord and serve Him faithfully with all your heart; consider what great things He has done for you.
(O)bservation-
How many great things has God done for us? Our lives are the result of His creation and our re-birth is because of His great love and mercy through the blood and resurrection of Christ. We were all purchased with the blood of our Lord Jesus and we are thus commanded to love God with all our hearts and to serve Him faithfully.
(A)pplication-
I could never count all the great things God has done for me. I give myself as a living sacrifice to His Kingdom - to be always open to how I am led by His Holy Spirit and to take the gifts and blessings He has given to me and multiply those in faith to bring Him glory. We are called to be excellent and prosperous in what we do; to soar with the eagles and not waddle around with the turkeys. May God be glorified by our actions as we fulfill His purpose with strength and courage.
(P)rayer-
Father, I bow down before You as my Creator and Sovereign Lord of my life. I give You everything and please help me to use what You've blessed me with to multiply and advance Your Kingdom in faithful service to You. I love You Lord and thank You for my salvation and eternal life through Your Son Jesus Christ. I praise You and exalt Your Holy Name forever and ever. Amen.
1 Sam. 12:24 But be sure to fear the Lord and serve Him faithfully with all your heart; consider what great things He has done for you.
(O)bservation-
How many great things has God done for us? Our lives are the result of His creation and our re-birth is because of His great love and mercy through the blood and resurrection of Christ. We were all purchased with the blood of our Lord Jesus and we are thus commanded to love God with all our hearts and to serve Him faithfully.
(A)pplication-
I could never count all the great things God has done for me. I give myself as a living sacrifice to His Kingdom - to be always open to how I am led by His Holy Spirit and to take the gifts and blessings He has given to me and multiply those in faith to bring Him glory. We are called to be excellent and prosperous in what we do; to soar with the eagles and not waddle around with the turkeys. May God be glorified by our actions as we fulfill His purpose with strength and courage.
(P)rayer-
Father, I bow down before You as my Creator and Sovereign Lord of my life. I give You everything and please help me to use what You've blessed me with to multiply and advance Your Kingdom in faithful service to You. I love You Lord and thank You for my salvation and eternal life through Your Son Jesus Christ. I praise You and exalt Your Holy Name forever and ever. Amen.
Saturday, April 10, 2010
SOAP - 1 Samuel 8 - 10; 2 Corinthians 10
(S)cripture-
2 Cor. 10:18 For it is not the one who commends himself who is approved, but the one whom the Lord commends.
(O)bservation-
Our true approval is not based on what we think of ourselves but what God does. Any such human boasting has no value in the context of eternity and what is truly important. To that end, we should always seek out what God's will is for each of our lives and commit ourselves fully to doing the Kingdom's work and receiving God's approval.
(A)pplication-
I want to please God. Nothing matters to me except what is righteous and holy and to be pleasing in His sight. My true reward is in Heaven and spending eternity in God's presence and I want His approval in the testing ground of this world we live in.
(P)rayer-
Heavenly Father, I long to have Your approval and to be in Your favor. You have blessed me so richly and I turn that all back to You in praise. I pray that You would lead me through Your Holy Spirit to be engaged in the things You want me to do and to be excellent and prosperous so that I can glorify Your Holy Name and be pleasing to You. It is not my own commendation or that of anyone else in this world that I seek, but Yours. Lord, I love and praise You for all things and in all things. In Jesus' name, Amen.
2 Cor. 10:18 For it is not the one who commends himself who is approved, but the one whom the Lord commends.
(O)bservation-
Our true approval is not based on what we think of ourselves but what God does. Any such human boasting has no value in the context of eternity and what is truly important. To that end, we should always seek out what God's will is for each of our lives and commit ourselves fully to doing the Kingdom's work and receiving God's approval.
(A)pplication-
I want to please God. Nothing matters to me except what is righteous and holy and to be pleasing in His sight. My true reward is in Heaven and spending eternity in God's presence and I want His approval in the testing ground of this world we live in.
(P)rayer-
Heavenly Father, I long to have Your approval and to be in Your favor. You have blessed me so richly and I turn that all back to You in praise. I pray that You would lead me through Your Holy Spirit to be engaged in the things You want me to do and to be excellent and prosperous so that I can glorify Your Holy Name and be pleasing to You. It is not my own commendation or that of anyone else in this world that I seek, but Yours. Lord, I love and praise You for all things and in all things. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Friday, April 9, 2010
SOAP - 1 Samuel 6, 7; Psalm 72; 2 Corinthians 9
(S)cripture-
2 Cor. 9:15 Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!
(O)bservation-
This gift, of course, is His Son Jesus Christ. God was the very first giver and also the giver of the most significant gift of all time. A gift so big that it can neither be fully described nor comprehended. The gift of Jesus, His blood on the cross, and His resurrection make our salvation possible. All anyone has to do to receive this gift is to ask for it - to repent and ask forgiveness of your sins and to ask Jesus into your heart. Sadly, many will miss out on this gift because of their hardened hearts but praise be to God for choosing His people to receive this most awesome gift of all.
(A)pplication-
I am truly blessed and humbled to know that God chose me to receive this gift. I am so very thankful for my salvation and I know that I cannot ever fathom what it fully means, which is why it is so exciting to be a believer and disciple of our Lord Jesus Christ.
(P)rayer-
Father, thank You for finding me, calling me, and saving me. Your gift of grace and love through Your Son Jesus is truly beyond description and I am in awe because of how You chose to do this and redeem Your children back to You. Lord, I give You everything and please use me to advance Your Kingdom and bring You glory by doing Your good works that You've laid out in advance for me to do. I love and praise You forever and ever and I pray these things in the name of our blessed Savior Jesus Christ, Amen.
2 Cor. 9:15 Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!
(O)bservation-
This gift, of course, is His Son Jesus Christ. God was the very first giver and also the giver of the most significant gift of all time. A gift so big that it can neither be fully described nor comprehended. The gift of Jesus, His blood on the cross, and His resurrection make our salvation possible. All anyone has to do to receive this gift is to ask for it - to repent and ask forgiveness of your sins and to ask Jesus into your heart. Sadly, many will miss out on this gift because of their hardened hearts but praise be to God for choosing His people to receive this most awesome gift of all.
(A)pplication-
I am truly blessed and humbled to know that God chose me to receive this gift. I am so very thankful for my salvation and I know that I cannot ever fathom what it fully means, which is why it is so exciting to be a believer and disciple of our Lord Jesus Christ.
(P)rayer-
Father, thank You for finding me, calling me, and saving me. Your gift of grace and love through Your Son Jesus is truly beyond description and I am in awe because of how You chose to do this and redeem Your children back to You. Lord, I give You everything and please use me to advance Your Kingdom and bring You glory by doing Your good works that You've laid out in advance for me to do. I love and praise You forever and ever and I pray these things in the name of our blessed Savior Jesus Christ, Amen.
Thursday, April 8, 2010
SOAP - 1 Samuel 3 - 5; Psalm 77; 2 Corinthians 8
(S)cripture-
2 Cor. 8:12 For if the willingness is there, the gift is acceptable according to what one has, not according to what he does not have.
(O)bservation-
We are called to act with generosity toward others and to give freely. However, what is truly important is not the amount of our gift but our willingness to give - this is the measure of a person's true generosity and what God looks for. God doesn't need our money and it is probably better if we don't give at all if the attitude of our hearts is not right. God freely gave us salvation through His Son and made us rich even though we were poor, and we are called to give to others as our means allow and with true generosity so that we can be a blessing to others.
(A)pplication-
When I give anything I will always check the attitude of my heart to make sure it is right before God. I want my gifts to be acceptable to Him. I just need to remember that I need to give according to my means and what is important is true generosity and not the relative size of the gift. God has richly blessed me and I desire to be able to bless others according to what I have been given.
(P)rayer-
Lord God, I thank You so much for my many rich blessings - most importantly for my salvation and gift of eternal life through Jesus Christ. As I have been blessed, help me to give accordingly to be a blessing to others - to always give with a willing heart so that my gifts are acceptable and pleasing to You. Father I give You everything because by Your great love and mercy You sent Jesus to give everything for me - thank You for my new life in Christ and please use me to be a blessing to others. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.
2 Cor. 8:12 For if the willingness is there, the gift is acceptable according to what one has, not according to what he does not have.
(O)bservation-
We are called to act with generosity toward others and to give freely. However, what is truly important is not the amount of our gift but our willingness to give - this is the measure of a person's true generosity and what God looks for. God doesn't need our money and it is probably better if we don't give at all if the attitude of our hearts is not right. God freely gave us salvation through His Son and made us rich even though we were poor, and we are called to give to others as our means allow and with true generosity so that we can be a blessing to others.
(A)pplication-
When I give anything I will always check the attitude of my heart to make sure it is right before God. I want my gifts to be acceptable to Him. I just need to remember that I need to give according to my means and what is important is true generosity and not the relative size of the gift. God has richly blessed me and I desire to be able to bless others according to what I have been given.
(P)rayer-
Lord God, I thank You so much for my many rich blessings - most importantly for my salvation and gift of eternal life through Jesus Christ. As I have been blessed, help me to give accordingly to be a blessing to others - to always give with a willing heart so that my gifts are acceptable and pleasing to You. Father I give You everything because by Your great love and mercy You sent Jesus to give everything for me - thank You for my new life in Christ and please use me to be a blessing to others. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
SOAP - 1 Samuel 1, 2; Psalm 66; 2 Corinthians 7
(S)cripture-
2 Cor 7:1 Since we have these promises, dear friends, let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God.
(O)bservation-
God has given us the ultimate promise through the blood of Christ that whoever believes in Him will not perish but have everlasting life. If we really think about this we realize how awesome it truly is. Accordingly, we should purge sin from our lives and be totally consecrated and dedicated to Him. Being holy before the Lord also means that we are separating ourselves from the commonplace.
(A)pplication-
I want to remove things in my life that are sinful or could become sinful and to be careful not to put myself in places or situations in which it would be difficult to resist the temptation to sin. By being with other believers we can all help each other with this as well as develop and maintain accountability before the Lord. I want to perfect my holiness by being totally committed and consecrated to Him in all that I do - every area of my life.
(P)rayer-
Father, I am Yours. All that I have and who I am I give to You as an offering. Please use me to do Your will and guide me through Your Spirit in helping me to remove things that could contaminate my body or spirit so that I can be holy before You. Thank You for Your Son Jesus and Your great promise of eternal life through Him. I love and praise You. In Jesus' name, Amen.
2 Cor 7:1 Since we have these promises, dear friends, let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God.
(O)bservation-
God has given us the ultimate promise through the blood of Christ that whoever believes in Him will not perish but have everlasting life. If we really think about this we realize how awesome it truly is. Accordingly, we should purge sin from our lives and be totally consecrated and dedicated to Him. Being holy before the Lord also means that we are separating ourselves from the commonplace.
(A)pplication-
I want to remove things in my life that are sinful or could become sinful and to be careful not to put myself in places or situations in which it would be difficult to resist the temptation to sin. By being with other believers we can all help each other with this as well as develop and maintain accountability before the Lord. I want to perfect my holiness by being totally committed and consecrated to Him in all that I do - every area of my life.
(P)rayer-
Father, I am Yours. All that I have and who I am I give to You as an offering. Please use me to do Your will and guide me through Your Spirit in helping me to remove things that could contaminate my body or spirit so that I can be holy before You. Thank You for Your Son Jesus and Your great promise of eternal life through Him. I love and praise You. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
SOAP - Ruth 3, 4; Psalm 64, 65; 2 Corinthians 6
(S)cripture-
2 Cor. 6:3 We put no stumbling block in anyone's path, so that our ministry will not be discredited.
(O)bservation-
Christians need to live a life which is a reflection of our Lord Jesus. Even though we are human and will stumble we need to endeavor to be good examples and witnesses of the joy and peace we know - sharing the Gospel of Christ in love with others and doing nothing to discredit it.
(A)pplication-
A big part of this is making sure that we remain righteous before God at all times and do away with any duplicitous behavior. If we strive for this then in good conscience we can know in our hearts that we are bringing honor and glory to God and the Good News of Christ.
(P)rayer-
Father, help me to live a life that is glorifying to You and will never discredit You in any way. Thank You for Your love and saving grace that covers me when I do stumble. Help me to keep my eyes fixed on the cross and to run the race that You have laid out for me, so that I can honor Your Holy Name and not tarnish it. I love and praise You in Jesus' name, Amen.
2 Cor. 6:3 We put no stumbling block in anyone's path, so that our ministry will not be discredited.
(O)bservation-
Christians need to live a life which is a reflection of our Lord Jesus. Even though we are human and will stumble we need to endeavor to be good examples and witnesses of the joy and peace we know - sharing the Gospel of Christ in love with others and doing nothing to discredit it.
(A)pplication-
A big part of this is making sure that we remain righteous before God at all times and do away with any duplicitous behavior. If we strive for this then in good conscience we can know in our hearts that we are bringing honor and glory to God and the Good News of Christ.
(P)rayer-
Father, help me to live a life that is glorifying to You and will never discredit You in any way. Thank You for Your love and saving grace that covers me when I do stumble. Help me to keep my eyes fixed on the cross and to run the race that You have laid out for me, so that I can honor Your Holy Name and not tarnish it. I love and praise You in Jesus' name, Amen.
Monday, April 5, 2010
SOAP - Ruth 1, 2; Psalm 53, 61; 2 Corinthians 5
(S)cripture-
2 Cor 5:17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!
(O)bservation-
God sent His only Son Jesus Christ to redeem His people. By God's grace and love Christ was sent to this world to carry man's guilt and sin to the grave and then God raised Him again on the third day. When we accept Jesus as Lord and Savior we don't have to live in the guilt and shame that sin brings. When we ask Jesus into our hearts, repent of our sin, and ask forgiveness then we receive it - the old person is gone and we are made brand new in Christ.
(A)pplication-
Praise God that I can shed the ways of my previous life - for God's great love and mercy that makes me brand new. Since I have this new beginning I never want to look back but always ahead, in great anticipation of the things that God has in store for my life. My great desire is to serve Him who gave me this new life and glorify His Holy Name.
(P)rayer-
Father, thank You for my new beginning - that I don't have to be condemned, but that I am free. I praise You Lord that You cared enough about Your children to redeem us back to You. Jesus, thank You for Your sacrifice at the cross - that You suffered for my sake, even though I am completely unworthy. Father, thank You for raising Jesus from the dead and with Him that You also created a new life in me and made me worthy. I give You everything and will always be committed to serve and glorify You. I love You so much and I praise You forever, Amen.
2 Cor 5:17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!
(O)bservation-
God sent His only Son Jesus Christ to redeem His people. By God's grace and love Christ was sent to this world to carry man's guilt and sin to the grave and then God raised Him again on the third day. When we accept Jesus as Lord and Savior we don't have to live in the guilt and shame that sin brings. When we ask Jesus into our hearts, repent of our sin, and ask forgiveness then we receive it - the old person is gone and we are made brand new in Christ.
(A)pplication-
Praise God that I can shed the ways of my previous life - for God's great love and mercy that makes me brand new. Since I have this new beginning I never want to look back but always ahead, in great anticipation of the things that God has in store for my life. My great desire is to serve Him who gave me this new life and glorify His Holy Name.
(P)rayer-
Father, thank You for my new beginning - that I don't have to be condemned, but that I am free. I praise You Lord that You cared enough about Your children to redeem us back to You. Jesus, thank You for Your sacrifice at the cross - that You suffered for my sake, even though I am completely unworthy. Father, thank You for raising Jesus from the dead and with Him that You also created a new life in me and made me worthy. I give You everything and will always be committed to serve and glorify You. I love You so much and I praise You forever, Amen.
SOAP - Judges 19 - 21; 2 Corinthians 4
(S)cripture-
2 Cor. 4:17 For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.
(O)bservation-
Even though it may be hard to fathom because of the way we as humans perceive it now, any kind of suffering or trial we face in this world is minuscule compared to the glory we will experience in heaven. For we as believers, this is such an exciting element of our faith - we can endure this world because of God's promise for our future.
(A)pplication-
While I am on this earth I will do God's will and trust in Him in all situations - no matter how much suffering or persecution that may involve. But I greatly anticipate the eternal glory that awaits when Jesus returns to take us home.
(P)rayer-
Lord God in Heaven, I know that no mind can conceive what it will be like in Heaven but I know that it will be awesome and amazing beyond our wildest dreams. Until that day Father, please help us to withstand all the trials and suffering of this world as we do the work of Your Kingdom. Thank You for all the blessings we have now and most of all for our salvation and eternal life through Your Son Jesus Christ. As I come before You this Easter morning I am humbled by Your great love and mercy and thank You for my new life because Jesus is risen! I love and praise You forever, Amen.
2 Cor. 4:17 For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.
(O)bservation-
Even though it may be hard to fathom because of the way we as humans perceive it now, any kind of suffering or trial we face in this world is minuscule compared to the glory we will experience in heaven. For we as believers, this is such an exciting element of our faith - we can endure this world because of God's promise for our future.
(A)pplication-
While I am on this earth I will do God's will and trust in Him in all situations - no matter how much suffering or persecution that may involve. But I greatly anticipate the eternal glory that awaits when Jesus returns to take us home.
(P)rayer-
Lord God in Heaven, I know that no mind can conceive what it will be like in Heaven but I know that it will be awesome and amazing beyond our wildest dreams. Until that day Father, please help us to withstand all the trials and suffering of this world as we do the work of Your Kingdom. Thank You for all the blessings we have now and most of all for our salvation and eternal life through Your Son Jesus Christ. As I come before You this Easter morning I am humbled by Your great love and mercy and thank You for my new life because Jesus is risen! I love and praise You forever, Amen.
Saturday, April 3, 2010
SOAP - Judges 17, 18; Psalm 89; 2 Corinthians 3
(S)cripture-
2 Cor. 3:18 And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord's glory, are being transformed into His likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.
(O)bservation-
Paul is comparing contemporary believers in the New Covenant with Moses - Moses wore a veil to hide his own fading glory as he got older but we as believers are to have unveiled faces to reflect God's glory and not hide it. Christ came to this earth and shined with all of God's glory and radiance. As believers, we are being transformed every day to be a little more like Christ and therefore a better reflection of God's glory. God sent His Holy Spirit to help guide us in our lives and enable this transformation.
(A)pplication-
I want to be a reflection of God's glory and to not hide that. I look forward to every day with anticipation of how God will use me and lead me through His Holy Spirit. All my life will be a work in progress - it is a journey and not a destination. I want to become and fulfill everything that God intended for me - to live every day as a product of His handiwork, being continually transformed into His likeness and reflecting more and more of His glory that He showed us through Christ His Son.
(P)rayer-
Father, help me to be a reflection of Your glory - to not hide that but be a witness to others. Please do Your work in me and use me to glorify Your Holy Name as You lead me through Your Holy Spirit. Lord, I am completely Yours and look forward to the transformation process so that every day I can become a little more like You. I love and praise You and pray these things in Jesus' name, Amen.
2 Cor. 3:18 And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord's glory, are being transformed into His likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.
(O)bservation-
Paul is comparing contemporary believers in the New Covenant with Moses - Moses wore a veil to hide his own fading glory as he got older but we as believers are to have unveiled faces to reflect God's glory and not hide it. Christ came to this earth and shined with all of God's glory and radiance. As believers, we are being transformed every day to be a little more like Christ and therefore a better reflection of God's glory. God sent His Holy Spirit to help guide us in our lives and enable this transformation.
(A)pplication-
I want to be a reflection of God's glory and to not hide that. I look forward to every day with anticipation of how God will use me and lead me through His Holy Spirit. All my life will be a work in progress - it is a journey and not a destination. I want to become and fulfill everything that God intended for me - to live every day as a product of His handiwork, being continually transformed into His likeness and reflecting more and more of His glory that He showed us through Christ His Son.
(P)rayer-
Father, help me to be a reflection of Your glory - to not hide that but be a witness to others. Please do Your work in me and use me to glorify Your Holy Name as You lead me through Your Holy Spirit. Lord, I am completely Yours and look forward to the transformation process so that every day I can become a little more like You. I love and praise You and pray these things in Jesus' name, Amen.
Friday, April 2, 2010
SOAP - Judges 13 - 16; 2 Corinthians 2
(S)cripture-
2 Cor. 2:14 But thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumphal procession in Christ and through us spreads everywhere the fragrance of the knowledge of Him.
(O)bservation-
As believers we are soldiers in God's army and He is our Supreme Commander. We march in Christ - spreading the Gospel of salvation through God's great love and mercy. This Gospel of Christ will be spread everywhere so that all nations will have an opportunity to hear it - some will accept it joyfully and gain eternal life while others, tragically, will reject it and condemn themselves to death.
(A)pplication-
I am proud to be a foot soldier in God's army - ready to do the work of spreading the Gospel of Christ and advancing to take territory for the Kingdom as I am led with power by the Holy Spirit. I want the Gospel of Christ to permeate the earth and I am also open to my godly training to help me be a better soldier, equipped to fight the good fight the best I can.
(P)rayer-
Father, please guide me in my training to be the best soldier I can be for Your army and to work with other believers in the united goal to take the Gospel to the corners of the earth. I want to glorify Your Holy Name and please lead me in taking territory that You have called me to take for Your Kingdom. Lord God, I praise You and thank You so much for my salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ. To You be the glory forever and ever, Amen.
2 Cor. 2:14 But thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumphal procession in Christ and through us spreads everywhere the fragrance of the knowledge of Him.
(O)bservation-
As believers we are soldiers in God's army and He is our Supreme Commander. We march in Christ - spreading the Gospel of salvation through God's great love and mercy. This Gospel of Christ will be spread everywhere so that all nations will have an opportunity to hear it - some will accept it joyfully and gain eternal life while others, tragically, will reject it and condemn themselves to death.
(A)pplication-
I am proud to be a foot soldier in God's army - ready to do the work of spreading the Gospel of Christ and advancing to take territory for the Kingdom as I am led with power by the Holy Spirit. I want the Gospel of Christ to permeate the earth and I am also open to my godly training to help me be a better soldier, equipped to fight the good fight the best I can.
(P)rayer-
Father, please guide me in my training to be the best soldier I can be for Your army and to work with other believers in the united goal to take the Gospel to the corners of the earth. I want to glorify Your Holy Name and please lead me in taking territory that You have called me to take for Your Kingdom. Lord God, I praise You and thank You so much for my salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ. To You be the glory forever and ever, Amen.
Thursday, April 1, 2010
SOAP - Judges 11, 12; Psalm 50; 2 Corinthians 1
(S)cripture-
2 Cor. 1:9 Indeed, in our hearts we felt the sentence of death. But this happened that we might not rely on ourselves but on God, who raises the dead.
(O)bservation-
Paul writes of a recent time when he was physically in a position in which he thought he would die, but he also acknowledges that it happened for a reason. Believers and non-believers alike on many occasions have asked the question 'why would God allow something like this to happen? and I believe that this, at least in part, is the answer. God loves His children but He also allows us to be put in positions in which we are tested to the max to see if we really will trust and rely on Him. We can say all day long that we will but it is not until extreme hardship comes that the answer to this question can truly be revealed.
(A)pplication-
Personally, this last year-and-a-half has been just about the most trying time of my life. Even as I write this I am in the midst of extreme hardship. But I trust in God and know that He loves me, will protect me, and will provide for me. This hardship will not last forever and I know that it is for a reason and that I will be better when I come out the other side. In all situations and circumstances God works for the good of those who love Him.
(P)rayer-
Father, thank You for Your love, protection, and provision in my life. Thank You for times of pressure, which You use in our lives to help us. They help to perfect us into a more functional part of Your Kingdom. Please God, do Your work in me - in my heart and in my spirit - so that I may be better equipped to do all of the great work that You have laid out for me and so that I can glorify Your Holy Name. Lord God I thank You, love You, and trust in You and give You all of my praise. I pray these things in the name of our blessed Savior Jesus Christ, Amen.
2 Cor. 1:9 Indeed, in our hearts we felt the sentence of death. But this happened that we might not rely on ourselves but on God, who raises the dead.
(O)bservation-
Paul writes of a recent time when he was physically in a position in which he thought he would die, but he also acknowledges that it happened for a reason. Believers and non-believers alike on many occasions have asked the question 'why would God allow something like this to happen? and I believe that this, at least in part, is the answer. God loves His children but He also allows us to be put in positions in which we are tested to the max to see if we really will trust and rely on Him. We can say all day long that we will but it is not until extreme hardship comes that the answer to this question can truly be revealed.
(A)pplication-
Personally, this last year-and-a-half has been just about the most trying time of my life. Even as I write this I am in the midst of extreme hardship. But I trust in God and know that He loves me, will protect me, and will provide for me. This hardship will not last forever and I know that it is for a reason and that I will be better when I come out the other side. In all situations and circumstances God works for the good of those who love Him.
(P)rayer-
Father, thank You for Your love, protection, and provision in my life. Thank You for times of pressure, which You use in our lives to help us. They help to perfect us into a more functional part of Your Kingdom. Please God, do Your work in me - in my heart and in my spirit - so that I may be better equipped to do all of the great work that You have laid out for me and so that I can glorify Your Holy Name. Lord God I thank You, love You, and trust in You and give You all of my praise. I pray these things in the name of our blessed Savior Jesus Christ, Amen.
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