The Daily Dose

Citizenship

The commander answered, “With a large sum I obtained this citizenship.” And Paul said, “But I was born a citizen.” Acts 22:28

I was born a United States citizen.  Today there are many people who don’t appreciate being an American, but to me it is a great honor.  I believe the words in the old patriotic song that say “there is no greater land on the earth.”  Being an American has great benefits and our country has freedoms that many other nations do not have.  Rights such as leading a quiet and peaceable life.  We have the right to bare arms and protect ourselves.  We are able to come and go without harassment or interrogation.  Most importantly, we have the right to worship God whenever and with whomever we want to and gather together in buildings that have been built for that specific purpose.

In today’s reading, the apostle Paul had been arrested and was about to be examined under scourging.  It was quite a barbaric process and one that the Romans took great pride in perfecting.  When Paul told the centurion that he was a Roman citizen, that changed the entire situation.  It even got the attention of the commander who told Paul that he had to buy his citizenship.  That is when Paul told the commander that he was a natural born citizen.  That was a game changer and immediately Paul was removed from the scourging chamber and became under the protection of the Roman guard.  Even though Paul was Jewish and had a dual citizenship, he was still able to benefit from the Roman laws.  He was not too proud to speak up about being a Roman and he was wise enough to know what his rights were as a Roman citizenship.

If you have received salvation in the blood of Jesus, than you have a dual citizenship too.  If you were born in America than you have natural citizenship as an American.  However, when you were born again into the kingdom of God, you have become a natural born citizen of heaven, right now here in this world.  You now have the benefits of heaven at work for you, but they can only work effectively if you know what your benefits are.

Psalms 103 is a great place to start to learn some of the most important benefits you possess as a citizen of heaven.  They are:

1. God forgives and releases you from the punishment of all your sin and iniquities
2. He heals all your dis-eases
3. He redeems (buys back) your life from being destroyed
4. He crowns (puts them right on top of you) your life with His loving kindness and tender mercies
5. You are satisfied with the good words of your mouth to renew your youthfulness
6. He executes His righteousness and justice when you are being oppressed by the enemy

Even though these benefits belong to you, that doesn’t mean you will never have anything in this fallen world come against you.  When you are up against any trouble, you must, like the apostle Paul did, invoke these rights and remind yourself and the enemy that you are a citizen of heaven and not subject to the oppressions of this world.  When you do, you may go through trouble, but God will bring you out of that trouble every time because He already promised to!

Today I want to encourage you to find out what your benefits are as a born again, child of God, citizen of heaven.  Begin to search out His promises in His Word that belong to you as part of God’s family.  Start writing down the promises you already know He has given to you in your salvation in Christ Jesus.  Then when trouble comes, and it will, remind yourself and others that you are a citizen of heaven and the afflictions of this world do not belong to you.  Stand on those promises in God’s word and His faithfulness to that word will get you through to victory every time.

Today’s scripture reading: Acts 22:22-30

22 And they listened to him until this word, and then they raised their voices and said, “Away with such a fellow from the earth, for he is not fit to live!” 

23 Then, as they cried out and tore off their clothes and threw dust into the air, 

24 the commander ordered him to be brought into the barracks, and said that he should be examined under scourging, so that he might know why they shouted so against him. 

25 And as they bound him with thongs, Paul said to the centurion who stood by, “Is it lawful for you to scourge a man who is a Roman, and uncondemned?”

26 When the centurion heard that, he went and told the commander, saying, “Take care what you do, for this man is a Roman.”

27 Then the commander came and said to him, “Tell me, are you a Roman?” He said, “Yes.”

28 The commander answered, “With a large sum I obtained this citizenship.” And Paul said, “But I was born a citizen.”

29 Then immediately those who were about to examine him withdrew from him; and the commander was also afraid after he found out that he was a Roman, and because he had bound him.

30 The next day, because he wanted to know for certain why he was accused by the Jews, he released him from his bonds, and commanded the chief priests and all their council to appear, and brought Paul down and set him before them.

An Encounter

And since I could not see for the glory of that light, being led by the hand of those who were with me, I came into Damascus.  Acts 22:11

Chances are that when you received salvation, you made the choice because you encountered the Holy Spirit.  Most likely it was not like the encounter the apostle Paul had on the road to Damascus, but you experienced Him in some way.  I know this is true because God’s Word says that we are drawn to salvation by God’s Spirit.  I had an encounter the day I received salvation and I have had many meetings since.  The truth is whenever I take time to sit quietly and be with Him, He shows up in some way to assure me He is with me and leading my life steps.

The apostle Paul had an encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus and many others.  We know that God showed up in the form of an earthquake when Paul and Silas were in the Philippian prison and their chains fell off.  We will read in just a few more chapters how the Lord was with Paul when he was in a terrible storm on his way to Rome and we also know that when he talked to God about the messenger of Satan that had come to buffet him, he was comforted with the words “My grace is sufficient for you.”  These are just a few of the times God showed up for Paul, yet whenever Paul talked about his encounters with God, he only mentions the first one.  This is probably the 3^rd or 4^th time in the book of Acts that he told his story of conversion to Christianity, and he will do it again many times in the chapters to come.  The truth is, Paul’s experience in Damascus is his testimony and that is the message that brought thousands to the saving knowledge of Jesus.

We all have a different story to tell and each one is unique and that is the message we carry to others.  When you begin to talk about personally experiencing God to others, the Holy Spirit will draw others to His saving grace through your testimony.  You can talk about other times He showed up to rescue or protect you, and how He continues to be faithful day by day too.  Just like it was with the apostle Paul, no one can convince you that your salvation isn’t real because you have had a personal connection with Him, and you know in your heart He is real and shows up when you call on Him.  When you share your conviction of your personal relationship, that will be all it takes for others to come and receive. 

Today I want to encourage you to share your salvation story with those around you.  Tell people you know and even those you have just met about God’s great love displayed in your life.  Let them know He wants a relationship with them too and how that relationship has changed your life and peace of mind.  We only get a few short days in this world to make an impact.  You can do so much by simply sharing your story.  Start today to tell others how you met Jesus on your “Damascus Road”, and you will not only be planting seeds of interest, but you will also be reinforcing what He is growing in your heart.

Today’s scripture reading: Acts 22:1-21

1 “Brethren and fathers, hear my defense before you now.” 

2 And when they heard that he spoke to them in the Hebrew language, they kept all the more silent. Then he said: 

3 “I am indeed a Jew, born in Tarsus of Cilicia, but brought up in this city at the feet of Gamaliel, taught according to the strictness of our fathers’ law, and was zealous toward God as you all are today. 

4 I persecuted this Way to the death, binding and delivering into prisons both men and women, 

5 as also the high priest bears me witness, and all the council of the elders, from whom I also received letters to the brethren, and went to Damascus to bring in chains even those who were there to Jerusalem to be punished.

6 “Now it happened, as I journeyed and came near Damascus at about noon, suddenly a great light from heaven shone around me. 

7 And I fell to the ground and heard a voice saying to me, ‘Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me?’ 

8 So I answered, ‘Who are You, Lord?’ And He said to me, ‘I am Jesus of Nazareth, whom you are persecuting.’

9 “And those who were with me indeed saw the light and were afraid, but they did not hear the voice of Him who spoke to me. 

10 So I said, ‘What shall I do, Lord?’ And the Lord said to me, ‘Arise and go into Damascus, and there you will be told all things which are appointed for you to do.’ 

11 And since I could not see for the glory of that light, being led by the hand of those who were with me, I came into Damascus.

12 “Then a certain Ananias, a devout man according to the law, having a good testimony with all the Jews who dwelt there, 

13 came to me; and he stood and said to me, ‘Brother Saul, receive your sight.’ And at that same hour I looked up at him. 

14 Then he said, ‘The God of our fathers has chosen you that you should know His will, and see the Just One, and hear the voice of His mouth. 

15 For you will be His witness to all men of what you have seen and heard. 

16 And now why are you waiting? Arise and be baptized, and wash away your sins, calling on the name of the Lord.’

17 “Now it happened, when I returned to Jerusalem and was praying in the temple, that I was in a trance 

18 and saw Him saying to me, ‘Make haste and get out of Jerusalem quickly, for they will not receive your testimony concerning Me.’ 

19 So I said, ‘Lord, they know that in every synagogue I imprisoned and beat those who believe on You. 

20 And when the blood of Your martyr Stephen was shed, I also was standing by consenting to his death, and guarding the clothes of those who were killing him.’ 

21 Then He said to me, ‘Depart, for I will send you far from here to the Gentiles.’ ”

Disappointed

And all the city was disturbed; and the people ran together, seized Paul, and dragged him out of the temple; and immediately the doors were shut.  Acts 21:30

  Have you ever been in the middle of a misunderstanding? What about in a place of trying to do the right thing only to be misunderstood and even having those you respect speak against you in some way?  It can be very disappointing and also discouraging.

I have been in this position at times in my life.  One particular instance was when a co-worker was feeling some pressure from another department about a request she had given.  When she was questioned about it, she put the blame on me because I was new.  I didn’t make a deal about it, but I did feel betrayed by the whole situation.  It really wasn’t a big deal, but I think if it ever happens again I will take that person to the side and gracefully talk about it.  Not to defend myself, but to bring honesty and trust back to a relationship.

In today’s passage, Paul was actually suffering a much worse scenario.  He had gone back to Jerusalem to report back to the elders of the Church.  They gave him instructions on what to do to be sure that others did not have the wrong idea about him ministering to the gentile nations he had just come from.  He did all the right things and made sure to follow the directions explicitly only to have a mob come against him, not even considering the steps he was following so he would not offend anyone.  He actually found himself right in the middle of a riot and not only that, but his life was being threatened before he even had a chance to defend himself or explain his position.

In life we can find ourselves and predicaments that are no fault of our own, but we still have to maintain a right heart and attitude.  Even when others are behaving badly, we still answer for our own response, and it is not justified based on other people’s actions.  Our response is still to line up with God’s word and the Holy Spirit’s direction.  As we read on in the book of Acts, we will see Paul up against greater obstacles than he ever faced before in his life.  Through it all, he kept his focus on his mission and continued to encourage the churches even though he was wrongly imprisoned and taken before Ceasar.  Paul did not let his outward circumstances determine his inward heat posture.  He was determined to complete his assignments no matter what was happening around him.

What about you?  Do you let the voices of doubt and unbelief knock you of the course you have be called to?  Maybe you are not even sure if you are on the journey yet.  You can decide today to answer His call and begin to step into your life plan that God has for you.  Begin by inviting Him into your life and asking the Holy Spirit to be your guide in your purpose.  You can do that by praying the simple prayer below and receive His great salvation to start on your path with Him.  He will lead you into your life of purpose and you will feel a fulfillment that you have never had or will ever have without Him.

Pray: God in heaven, I know I’m a sinner and I need a Savior.  I want to turn away from my sinful life to the life You have planned for me.  Please forgive my sins, cleanse me from my past, and make me new today.  I know Your Son, Jesus died for me.  I believe in my heart that You raised Him from the dead.  At this very moment, I accept, confess, and proclaim Jesus as my personal Lord and Savior . . . to be Lord of my life from this day forward.  I now have a right relationship with God my Father through this salvation in the blood of Jesus. I thank You for giving me Your Holy Spirit to guide me and to empower me to accomplish the things You have planned for my life in Jesus’ name, Amen

Today’s scripture reading: Acts 21:26-40

26 Then Paul took the men, and the next day, having been purified with them, entered the temple to announce the expiration of the days of purification, at which time an offering should be made for each one of them.

27 Now when the seven days were almost ended, the Jews from Asia, seeing him in the temple, stirred up the whole crowd and laid hands on him, 

28 crying out, “Men of Israel, help! This is the man who teaches all men everywhere against the people, the law, and this place; and furthermore he also brought Greeks into the temple and has defiled this holy place.” 

29 (For they had previously seen Trophimus the Ephesian with him in the city, whom they supposed that Paul had brought into the temple.)

30 And all the city was disturbed; and the people ran together, seized Paul, and dragged him out of the temple; and immediately the doors were shut. 

31 Now as they were seeking to kill him, news came to the commander of the garrison that all Jerusalem was in an uproar. 

32 He immediately took soldiers and centurions, and ran down to them. And when they saw the commander and the soldiers, they stopped beating Paul. 

33 Then the commander came near and took him, and commanded him to be bound with two chains; and he asked who he was and what he had done. 

34 And some among the multitude cried one thing and some another. So when he could not ascertain the truth because of the tumult, he commanded him to be taken into the barracks. 

35 When he reached the stairs, he had to be carried by the soldiers because of the violence of the mob. 

36 For the multitude of the people followed after, crying out, “Away with him!”

37 Then as Paul was about to be led into the barracks, he said to the commander, “May I speak to you?” He replied, “Can you speak Greek? 

38 Are you not the Egyptian who some time ago stirred up a rebellion and led the four thousand assassins out into the wilderness?”

39 But Paul said, “I am a Jew from Tarsus, in Cilicia, a citizen of no mean city; and I implore you, permit me to speak to the people.”

40 So when he had given him permission, Paul stood on the stairs and motioned with his hand to the people. And when there was a great silence, he spoke to them in the Hebrew language, saying,

Accountable

When he had greeted them, he told in detail those things which God had done among the Gentiles through his ministry. Acts 21:19

I was just thinking about this the other day.  When I became an “adult” I was still very naive and immature.  However, I couldn’t wait to move on in life away from the rules and limitations I had grown up under.  Little did I know that those were in place for my protection and for learning to make good decisions in life.  As soon as I was able to make my own decisions, I did not make good ones at all.  Because I was brought up in a Christian home, it was assumed that I would just do the right things when I got out on my own, but the truth was that I was very selfish and did not want to answer to anyone.  As I thought about this briefly the other day, I considered that because I removed all accountability in my life, I began to live a life of doing whatever I wanted at the time without lining up with the standard of God’s Word.

As you can imagine, and already know if you have been reading the Daily Dose for a while, in removing that standard I made many regrettable decisions in my life.  Oh, I tried and even pretended for a while that I was living right, but my heart was dark and full of selfish ambition.  I had no understanding of what it meant to have people in my life that would come along side and help me to keep on track with the plan God had for me.

In today’s reading, we can see a clear example in the life of the apostle Paul of being accountable to the elders of the church and those he traveled with.  He never isolated himself as he traveled (except to be along with God at times) and as soon as he returned to Jerusalem, he promptly gave the church leaders a report of his missionary journey and the work that God had done through his team.  Sure, it makes sense that Paul would subject himself and his team to those in Jerusalem.  This was one of the ways he was able to stay in agreement and keep his teaching in line with the rest of the church at that time.  The truth is that Paul had lived a life of accountability and understood even before he became a Christian the importance of keeping yourself in submission to others to help and encourage him to be successful in the thing, he set out to do in life.

Now that I have, in more recent years, began to line up my life with the standard of God’s Word and His ways, it is easy to see the importance of accountability. So much so that I want to stay so close to Him to make sure that I do not get off track ever again. One of the most important things I now know about being accountable was learning to recognize when God puts things in my heart. For years I would dismiss the assignments the Holy Spirit was leading me toward because I didn’t understand that He would empower me and bring others into my life to walk out the plan with. Because I couldn’t or didn’t even know how to start, I would simple just say “That’s not for me” each time He gave direction. Thank goodness He got me to a place and teaching the assured me that in following His plan, He would surround me with all that I need to get the mission done and it has been the greatest joy of my life to do things His way and with His people.

Today I want to encourage you to consider who you are accountable to?  Yes, we are all accountable to God and His Word, but do you have a plan in place to do that and also to walk along side those who will help and encourage you to be on track.  What boundaries have you put in place to keep you from getting distracted or lured away from the mission and assignment you have been given from heaven?  Who have you shared the plan of God for your life with to pray for you and be there for you to help you through the discouraging times?  This is one of the most important and first steps you should be taking when stepping into your calling.  Begin today to pray that you will know your assignment and for those who you can walk out this call with even if it is just to have someone to check in with and give updates.  God never intended for you to accomplish your mission on your own.  He knows that in order to go far in your purpose, you must have others along to be accountable to and when you do, it will be the greatest joy of your life too!

Today’s scripture reading: Acts 21:15-25

15 And after those days we packed and went up to Jerusalem. 

16 Also some of the disciples from Caesarea went with us and brought with them a certain Mnason of Cyprus, an early disciple, with whom we were to lodge.

17 And when we had come to Jerusalem, the brethren received us gladly. 

18 On the following day Paul went in with us to James, and all the elders were present. 

19 When he had greeted them, he told in detail those things which God had done among the Gentiles through his ministry. 

20 And when they heard it, they glorified the Lord. And they said to him, “You see, brother, how many myriads of Jews there are who have believed, and they are all zealous for the law; 

21 but they have been informed about you that you teach all the Jews who are among the Gentiles to forsake Moses, saying that they ought not to circumcise their children nor to walk according to the customs. 

22 What then? The assembly must certainly meet, for they will hear that you have come. 

23 Therefore do what we tell you: We have four men who have taken a vow. 

24 Take them and be purified with them, and pay their expenses so that they may shave their heads, and that all may know that those things of which they were informed concerning you are nothing, but that you yourself also walk orderly and keep the law. 

25 But concerning the Gentiles who believe, we have written and decided that they should observe no such thing, except that they should keep themselves from things offered to idols, from blood, from things strangled, and from sexual immorality.”

What’s coming up?

Then Paul answered, “What do you mean by weeping and breaking my heart? For I am ready not only to be bound, but also to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.”  Acts 21:13

Yesterday, when I was driving home from work, I began thinking about what’s coming up next.  As I was driving, I could see up ahead a little way a traffic light coming up.  Then beyond that there was a row of houses.  I could see pretty far down the road, even as far as the next bend.  I remembered a stretch of road that I was on once that I could see a traffic light 3 miles away because the way was to flat and straight.  I didn’t believe at first that I could see that far ahead until I actually measured it one time as I drove.

Life is often the same way.  We can see what is coming up in bits and pieces.  For example, we know Christmas is coming up in three days.  Most of us probably know what we have planned in the days leading up to Christmas and even for the week after until New Year’s Day.  Some may know plans in the new year and can “see” a vacation or significant event that will be happening in the months to come.

In today’s reading, many people were trying to warn Paul about what was coming up for him if he continued on his course to Jerusalem.  Things like he would be arrested and given over to the gentiles.  Paul actually already knew that this was going to be the turning point in his mission, but he also knew that this was the planned path.  Finally, after this group had pleaded with him not to go, he couldn’t take it any longer and told them all he was ready to face whatever happened there.  He wasn’t about to run away from the assignment he had been given.  Paul didn’t know every detail, but he did know what way to travel and being led by the Spirit of God assured him that he was on the right path even when things didn’t seem like they were working to his advantage.

After reading this passage, I considered again what is coming up next for me.  I’m not talking about the three days leading up to Christmas but what I know about in the coming year?  The Holy Spirit has dropped something into my heart of next year and has given me a big assignment that I am already seeing parts of how it will play out as I take the steps the He leads me to.  Much like my driving vision, there may be traffic lights I have to wait at or even make a turn in my current direction.  There will be some scenery along the way and no doubt some sever curves and unforeseen ups and downs.  Does that mean I am not even going to start out in that direction because I know it will not be easy?  Certainly not!  I am thrilled for the opportunity and know that the Holy Spirit’s empowering grace will give me what I need in abundance every next step of the way.

What about you?  Have you considered or even prayed about what is coming up next for your life and assignment from your heavenly Father?  What great plan does He have for you to walk out in the new year?  What awesome adventure has He put into your heart for you to reach the world around you.  Yes, it may be scary to take the next steps in that direction, but I promise you, you will not regret it if you see it through to the end.  You are going to experience ups and downs in life no matter what course you take.  Why not get on the path that He is on and let Him carry you through the twists and turns.  If you do, you will hardly notice the obstacles that get in the way.  You will simply wait as He dissolves and defuses every roadblock that tries to stop you. 

Today I encourage you to pray about what’s coming up next for you and His assignment for your new year! Take time to listen to what the Holy Spirit is speaking to your heart. Thank Him for His leading and always keeping you on track with your life mission. Determine today that you are going stay that course no matter what the difficulties may be. He will take you through to success and victory every time if you get on His planned path. Trust Him that He knows what He is doing and that He only wants to bless you every step of the way!

Today’s scripture reading: Acts 21:1-14

1 Now it came to pass, that when we had departed from them and set sail, running a straight course we came to Cos, the following day to Rhodes, and from there to Patara. 

2 And finding a ship sailing over to Phoenicia, we went aboard and set sail. 

3 When we had sighted Cyprus, we passed it on the left, sailed to Syria, and landed at Tyre; for there the ship was to unload her cargo. 

4 And finding disciples, we stayed there seven days. They told Paul through the Spirit not to go up to Jerusalem. 

5 When we had come to the end of those days, we departed and went on our way; and they all accompanied us, with wives and children, till we were out of the city. And we knelt down on the shore and prayed. 

6 When we had taken our leave of one another, we boarded the ship, and they returned home.

7 And when we had finished our voyage from Tyre, we came to Ptolemais, greeted the brethren, and stayed with them one day. 

8 On the next day we who were Paul’s companions departed and came to Caesarea, and entered the house of Philip the evangelist, who was one of the seven, and stayed with him. 

9 Now this man had four virgin daughters who prophesied. 

10 And as we stayed many days, a certain prophet named Agabus came down from Judea. 

11 When he had come to us, he took Paul’s belt, bound his own hands and feet, and said, “Thus says the Holy Spirit, ‘So shall the Jews at Jerusalem bind the man who owns this belt, and deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles.’ ”

12 Now when we heard these things, both we and those from that place pleaded with him not to go up to Jerusalem. 

13 Then Paul answered, “What do you mean by weeping and breaking my heart? For I am ready not only to be bound, but also to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.”

14 So when he would not be persuaded, we ceased, saying, “The will of the Lord be done.”

A great announcement for 2024

I will ask you all to share this message with anyone that you know that has an interest in writing or publishing their work.

In 2024, I am putting together a book of short stories.  It will be a compilation of many different authors with encouraging content (Non-fiction or fiction) to blessed and inspire readers on their journey in life.  There will be a team of editors to review each story for content and structure and a selection committee to decide which stories will be included in the publication.

If you or someone you know is interested in submitting their work, below are the parameters to follow to be considered:

1. The completed story must be 8-20 pages (approximately 5,000 – 12,000 words)
2. The content must be encouraging, inspiring and faith based.
3. February 1st or before all initial concepts must be submitted
4. March 1st or before initial outline submitted once concept is approved
5. June 1^st or before initial story submitted for editing
6. Email any questions or submissions to: VOICESMag@email.com
7. This publication will be ready in time for Christmas next year and will be a great gift option for those we know and love that need encouragement and inspiration.

Thank you all for helping me to spread the news about this mission and most of all for praying for us as we add this project to an already full schedule.

I pray you all have a Merry Christmas and a happy 2024!

Blessed to be a blessing

I have shown you in every way, by laboring like this, that you must support the weak. And remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’”  Acts 20:35

I have always loved to give gifts, but I have not always been in a position to give as much as I would like.  It is fitting at this time of year that we talk about giving since that is one of the greatest things we do when we celebrate the birth of our Lord on Christmas day.  We do a lot of fun things in our celebration of His coming such as: sing carols, eat big meals and yummy desserts, send out cards to greet our loved ones in the season and we give gifts.  Many people are confused about the reason for the gifts.  There is a lot of focus on Christmas being a time to receive wonderful presents from those we love so much.  We make lists of the things we want and hope to receive the things that we could not get on our own. It doesn’t seem like it should be something we have to teach our children or others, but the truth is, it is.  Christmas is about giving!  God gave the world His Son Jesus and now we share and give His salvation to others still today.

In today’s reading, the apostle Paul made an interesting comment and quoted something that Jesus said.  However, this quote from Jesus in not in the gospels or any other place in the scriptures indicating that Paul received this message through a divine meeting or revelation.  Jesus said:  It is a greater blessing to give than it is to receive from others. 

In this season, this year, I have been getting new revelation on this subject of giving.  This phrase in Acts has always seemed to me that it was a nice saying and that you should be happier when giving than when you receive from others.  But now I am beginning to understand that there is so much more to it.  It is about the blessing part.  The blessed part of giving in not in the giving itself, but in the giving as unto the Lord.  When you set out in your giving to be a blessing to others, and when your heart is truly about your desire to help and be a blessing to other people whether through a gift or helping them through a struggle, you are actually blessing God with your acts of kindness and love.  This is where the true blessing comes in and what Jesus was talking about.  When you bless others and bless God in the process, it opens up the way for God’s great blessing and abundant grace to be poured out on your life in every way.  Giving to others in any capacity when done in love is a gift to God Himself.

Today I want to encourage you to focus on being a blessing to others this year.  If you have never really enjoyed giving or helping others, ask your heavenly Father to change your heart about it.  Don’t make this time of year be about worrying how much money you are spending.  Instead change your focus to being a blessing to others.  Whether it is by a nice gift, baking a special treat for someone or even running errands for someone who need help.  Determine that you are going to be a great blessing to those around you and when doing that, you will be a blessing to the Lord.  Make this Christmas the best one yet because of your heart to love others through giving and then when it is over, go ahead and do it all year round.

Today’s scripture reading: Acts 20:25-38

25 “And indeed, now I know that you all, among whom I have gone preaching the kingdom of God, will see my face no more. 

26 Therefore I testify to you this day that I am innocent of the blood of all men. 

27 For I have not shunned to declare to you the whole counsel of God. 

28 Therefore take heed to yourselves and to all the flock, among which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the church of God which He purchased with His own blood. 

29 For I know this, that after my departure savage wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock. 

30 Also from among yourselves men will rise up, speaking perverse things, to draw away the disciples after themselves. 

31 Therefore watch, and remember that for three years I did not cease to warn everyone night and day with tears.

32 “So now, brethren, I commend you to God and to the word of His grace, which is able to build you up and give you an inheritance among all those who are sanctified. 

33 I have coveted no one’s silver or gold or apparel. 

34 Yes, you yourselves know that these hands have provided for my necessities, and for those who were with me. 

35 I have shown you in every way, by laboring like this, that you must support the weak. And remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’ ”

36 And when he had said these things, he knelt down and prayed with them all. 

37 Then they all wept freely, and fell on Paul’s neck and kissed him, 

38 sorrowing most of all for the words which he spoke, that they would see his face no more. And they accompanied him to the ship.

Do it with joy

But none of these things move me; nor do I count my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my race with joy, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God.  Acts 20:224

What is your life worth to you?  In today’s culture there is a lot of focus on self-worth and self-care.  Much of our society has an entitlement mentality that believes they deserve every advantage and every comfort that life has to offer.  Overall, we have become a generation of getting what is rightfully mine and looking out for number 1.  The servant mindset is rare to find, and the world is largely determined not to let anyone take advantage of them.

The apostle Paul had a much different idea about his value.  He did not try to preserve or keep his life free from trouble and stay in his “comfort zone.”  Most of his traveling was anything but comfortable. He heart was set on completing his mission and the assignment on his life.  In today’s verse he said that he was not moved by impending dangers and knowing that chains and tribulations waited for him.  Nor did he run and hide to be secure and protect his life.  That wasn’t what was valuable to him but rather finishing his race with joy and telling others about the message of salvation that he was charged with.

Oh, that we would step into this wisdom in the day that we live in. That we would not count our life dear to us but that we would value more than anything else the call on our life and completing the mission we were born to accomplish.  Even though Paul was heading a different direction before he met Jesus on the road to Damascus, he had grown up with mission in mind.  He was set on a course to be God’s minister and trained from a young age by the Pharisees of his day.  Most of us will not start from that point, but we can begin where we are today. 

Your mission starts with faithfulness.  Faithfulness in every area of your life.  Being honest with yourself and others and staying focused on what is most important in life and that is caring for and bringing others to Him.  Start by being faithful to meet with God at the beginning of each day.  Make time for Him and give Him priority.  That is the first step of faithfulness to His kingdom.  You must change your way of thinking from self-centered to God centered and that will require a constant renewing of your mind. 

Next begin to give Him first place in every area of life.  Your faith, family, finances, fitness and fun.  As you begin to rearrange your life to be God-centered, you will still have trails that come, but none of those things will move you off the course you have been set on.  As you make Him and His plan your purpose in life, that will be all that matters to you to fit into your busy schedule.  Instead of being busy with work and activities, you will become active in ministry and helping others and most of all, don’t forget the joy.  Joy doesn’t come automatically, you must have a thankful heart and purpose that no matter what, you are rejoicing in being called and living your life with purpose from on high.

Today I want to encourage you to count your life worthless.  If you have not purposefully positioned yourself on the assignment from heaven, begin to change that today.  Start by taking steps away from being faithful to yourself and turn to head in the direction of being faithful in the kingdom of heaven.  Make God’s agenda your agenda and highest priority.  Spend time in His presence each day by studying His word and promises and talking with Him about your purpose for the day.  Watch for open doors to reach out and encourage others.  Be the hope and light in the dark world around you.  Help others to Jesus by shining His light wherever you go.  Soon you will see that the only thing that matters in life, the only thing that will count for ever, is pointing others to their hope of salvation in the blood and sacrifice of Jesus.

Today’s scripture reading: Acts 20:17-24

17 From Miletus he sent to Ephesus and called for the elders of the church. 

18 And when they had come to him, he said to them: “You know, from the first day that I came to Asia, in what manner I always lived among you, 

19 serving the Lord with all humility, with many tears and trials which happened to me by the plotting of the Jews; 

20 how I kept back nothing that was helpful, but proclaimed it to you, and taught you publicly and from house to house, 

21 testifying to Jews, and also to Greeks, repentance toward God and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ. 

22 And see, now I go bound in the spirit to Jerusalem, not knowing the things that will happen to me there, 

23 except that the Holy Spirit testifies in every city, saying that chains and tribulations await me. 

24 But none of these things move me; nor do I count my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my race with joy, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God.

Time alone

We went on ahead to the ship and sailed for Assos, where we were going to take Paul aboard. He had made this arrangement because he was going there on foot.  Acts 20:13

 This scripture reminds me of the times that Jesus told His disciples to go on ahead to the next town or go ahead in the boat and I will meet you there.  Except in this passage it is Paul that is telling his team to go on ahead in the ship and he would meet them at the next port.  It doesn’t say why, but I know it was because he needed some quiet time to pray and talk to God about what had just happened and what was coming up next. I know this because it is what Jesus did and I find that I often need this quiet time too. 

When something amazing or puzzling or even disturbing happens, I need time to process and talk to the Lord about how to handle what has just happened and get His peace about the situation.  Paul had just had this amazing meeting in Troas with great preaching and great works.  After the emotional roller coaster of seeing someone fall to their death and then raising them back to life, he needed this time to get with God and keep in step with His plan. Paul was always preparing his heart for what was coming up.

So now I will stress again just how valuable and necessary quiet time with God is.  Not just in the morning to talk about the day and not just when you are going through trouble.  If you begin to talk with Him about all the things you are processing in life, He will lead you to His peace that will propel you through your struggles to your victory.  This time alone with God is the most important time to keep you on course in your purpose.  It is also time invested into eternity.  Every minute you spend talking with God (praying) it is counted toward eternity.  It will not fade away like everything in this world does, but it will last forever.  Malachi 3:16 even says that there is a book of remembrance written before God of the things we talk about Him and with Him.  It is written down for all eternity.

Today I want to encourage you to once again to get alone with God each day.  If Jesus and Paul needed alone time to receive grace and strength, how much more do we today?  The world we live in is crazier than ever and we are bogged down with a constant barrage of media, activities and world crisis.  Doesn’t it make sense that we shut down each day to hear from the One who has the wisdom and power to give us what we need to overcome? Put it on your schedule each day to sit in the presence of the One who created and saved you. He has everything you need to be successful in this world. He will give you all that you need to walk out your mission to completion.

Today’s scripture reading: Acts 20:13- 16

13 Then we went ahead to the ship and sailed to Assos, there intending to take Paul on board; for so he had given orders, intending himself to go on foot. 

14 And when he met us at Assos, we took him on board and came to Mitylene. 

15 We sailed from there, and the next day came opposite Chios. The following day we arrived at Samos and stayed at Trogyllium. The next day we came to Miletus. 

16 For Paul had decided to sail past Ephesus, so that he would not have to spend time in Asia; for he was hurrying to be at Jerusalem, if possible, on the Day of Pentecost.

He can fix it

And in a window sat a certain young man named Eutychus, who was sinking into a deep sleep. He was overcome by sleep; and as Paul continued speaking, he fell down from the third story and was taken up dead.  Acts 20:9

I did it again.  I said something I shouldn’t have said, or I did something I probably should have done.  Even sometimes I go where I shouldn’t have gone.  On the other hand, I didn’t say something I should have said or I didn’t do something I should have done. There have been times that I didn’t go where I was supposed to go.  Inevitably after the fact, there is going to be regret.  I am not perfect, so there are times in life when I am disappointed about the way I handled a situation.  It’s true and it happens to all of us.  No matter how hard you try to do the right thing or do what is expected of you, there is still a chance of error.  We live in a fallen world and there will still be days that that you wish you could have a do over.

There is a secret when this happens.  There is a way of turning it around when you mess up or do things less than perfect.  That is turn it over to Jesus.  When you miss the target in life, don’t wrestle with feelings of inadequacy and regret.  Instead, turn it over to the Lord and ask Him to make something good come out of it.  Pray something like: “Heavenly Father, I know I shouldn’t have said that or did that thing, I’m sorry and I cannot take it back now, but can you please turn that situation for good.  Would you bring peace to those circumstances and not let evil prevail.  If there was someone I hurt or disappointed, please fill their heart and life with love and make what the enemy meant for evil turn out for Your goodness instead?”

In today’s reading, Paul met with a group of believers in an upper room the day before he was about to leave their city.  Because he was about to leave them, he spent all day with them and even preached for hours until it was very late at night.  I expect it was hot in that room because the window was open, and someone actually fell out of that window during Paul’s message.  When reading this passage, it can be easy to read through the verses as if this was no big deal, but the guy actually died so you know there was not just a little stir.  This was an urgent situation and one that would have caused great alarm.  So much that everyone there ran out of the room down to the ground to see if the young man was ok.  They verified that he was dead, but Paul took the matter in hand and said, don’t be afraid, and turned that bad situation for God’s glory through a miracle of the Holy Spirit.  They all went back up to the third-floor room and ate a meal together before Paul left the area.  They even brought the person who had fallen back in alive and they were comforted.  What could have ended in a tragic day was turned into a peaceful farewell party for Paul and his team because they kept the meeting in God’s hands.

Today I want to encourage you when things are not going well, when you say or do what you didn’t want to say or do, turn it over to God.  Repent and ask Him to make it right.  Remember to commit these situations to Him and He will turn them for good.  It may take a while or it may happen right away, but your peace will come as you commit all things into His hand to be handled for His honor and glory.  You do not have to live a life of regrets and disappointments; you can commit all your ways to Him and He will turn them into something good and purpose.

Today’s scripture reading: Acts 20:7-12

7 Now on the first day of the week, when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul, ready to depart the next day, spoke to them and continued his message until midnight. 

8 There were many lamps in the upper room where they were gathered together. 

9 And in a window sat a certain young man named Eutychus, who was sinking into a deep sleep. He was overcome by sleep; and as Paul continued speaking, he fell down from the third story and was taken up dead. 

10 But Paul went down, fell on him, and embracing him said, “Do not trouble yourselves, for his life is in him.” 

11 Now when he had come up, had broken bread and eaten, and talked a long while, even till daybreak, he departed. 

12 And they brought the young man in alive, and they were not a little comforted.

Living above your circumstances

“Now thanks be to God, who always causes us to triumph in Christ, and through us makes known the fragrance of His knowledge in every place.”  2 Corinthians 2:14

You already have the victory in whatever battle you are in right now.  The way to get that victory show up in reality is in giving thanks to God.  What I am talking about is setting time aside each day to be thankful to Him for your life and the place you are right now.  Even if you are not where you ultimately want to be, you can still be thankful that your Heavenly Father is with you, right where you are, today.  Your thankful heart has the power to give you a life above your current circumstances.

Daniel is a great example of living above his circumstances.  As I wrote earlier, he was taken away from his home and forced to work for the king of a foreign land.  He maintained his godly attitude and didn’t allow his captivity to lead him to rebellion.  In fact, he served many kings in that land and found favor with all of them because of his heart for God. He never tried to escape and return to his own home. He remained faithful where he was and God blessed him there.  The main reason for all this was his relationship with God.  Daniel 6:10 says, “Now when Daniel knew that the writing was signed, he went home. And in his upper room, with his windows open toward Jerusalem, he knelt down on his knees three times that day, and prayed and gave thanks before his God, as was his custom since early days.”  Daniel had a consistent time he spent with God every day.  Actually, it was three times each day that he set aside to focus on God and talk with him.  But the most amazing part about it was that he was thankful.  How far a thankful heart goes.  Daniel didn’t get on his knees and beg God to change his circumstances.  He was thankful right in the middle of his circumstances.  As a result, he had victory in every area of his life no matter what came against him.

This really speaks to me and encourages me.  If I knew for sure that getting before God each day and being thankful would assure my victory in every area of life, why wouldn’t I do it?  But the best news is that according to today’s verse in 2 Corinthians, in Christ Jesus, we always have the victory.  This verse tells me that I am assured the victory in every situation, over every circumstance as long as I put it in the hands of my Savior.   I need to give it all to Him and be thankful; thankful that He is handling it and thankful that He is making it better no matter what the dilemma is.  I don’t need to tell Him how to fix the problems or how bad things are, he already knows what I am dealing with.  I don’t even have to tell Him about it three times a day, but the verse says: Now thanks be to God, not maybe later, right now and always I need to keep my relationship with Him a priority and be thankful!

Today I want to encourage you to give thanks to God, who always gives you the victory in Christ Jesus.  Believe His Word and set time aside to spend thanking Him for the victory that is coming your way. Then watch as He completely turns things around and brings you out on top.  Don’t get bogged down by your circumstances, live above them by giving them to God and giving Him thanks for the victory He replaces your problems with!! 

Today’s scripture reading: 2 Corinthians 2:12-17

12 Furthermore, when I came to Troas to preach Christ’s gospel, and a door was opened to me by the Lord,

13 I had no rest in my spirit, because I did not find Titus my brother; but taking my leave of them, I departed for Macedonia.

14 Now thanks be to God who always leads us in triumph in Christ, and through us diffuses the fragrance of His knowledge in every place.

15 For we are to God the fragrance of Christ among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing.

16 To the one we are the aroma of death leading to death, and to the other the aroma of life leading to life. And who is sufficient for these things?

17 For we are not, as so many, peddling the word of God; but as of sincerity, but as from God, we speak in the sight of God in Christ.