The Daily Dose

Look at the stars

Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, WISE MEN from the East came to Jerusalem.  Matthew 2:1

Who were the wise men that came to Jerusalem to worship Jesus?  They were scholars from the east (Persia) that studied the stars.  Tradition calls them kings, but the truth is they were astronomers that understood the significance of events that took place in the sky.

In Genesis 1, God said that the stars were to divide the day from the night, but also that they would be for SIGNS and season.  Then God said, “Let there be lights in the firmament of the heavens to divide the day from the night; and let them be for signs and seasons, and for days and years. (Gen. 1:14) I have always read right over that part of the creation account until recent years. Maybe it’s because technology has come so far or maybe it’s because more events are happening in the sky, but it seems like almost monthly there is another phenomenon to be seen in the heavens and I really enjoy taking the time to observe.

These happenings have always fascinated me, but only about the last 5 years of my life did they take on meaning.  I know that God is in the process of bringing heaven and earth together and that he is speaking to people through these signs.  Of course, as God’s people, he speaks to us through His Word and His Spirit, but to the world, He uses many outside resources including the stars to get their attention.

Interestingly enough, there are many significant displays going on this month. I don’t know what they all means, but I do know who is putting the show on and I don’t want to miss seeing the handiwork of my Father.  Even though I don’t know the significance, I still ask Him if there is anything He wants to say to me through this great light show.  Mostly I just believe He is saying: “Hey, I am here, and I want all people to recognize My hand in the world today.”

Today I want to encourage you to be a “wise man” and give some attention to what is going on in the sky.  You don’t have to try to figure out what it all means but enjoy the beauty of God’s creation.  If anything, step into the moment by taking the time to appreciate all He has done and is doing in the earth and in the sky.  He is speaking to us, up close and from far away in the universe.  Take time to talk with Him and ask Him if there is anything you should be doing to prepare for coming events or if there are things you shouldn’t be doing as we draw near to the end of this age of His grace.

Today’s scripture reading: Matthew 2:1-6

1 Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the East came to Jerusalem,

2 saying, “Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we have seen His star in the East and have come to worship Him.”

3 When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him.

4 And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of the people together, he inquired of them where the Christ was to be born.

5 So they said to him, “In Bethlehem of Judea, for thus it is written by the prophet:

6 ‘But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah,

Are not the least among the rulers of Judah;

For out of you shall come a Ruler Who will shepherd My people Israel.’”

False accusations

Now after five days Ananias the high priest came down with the elders and a certain orator named Tertullus. These gave evidence to the governor against Paul.  Acts 24:1

  Have you ever been falsely accused of something?  What about had a wrong done to you?  We all have at some point in life.  Because people are people, there will always be misunderstandings, miscommunications and false accusations.  How do you take it when those times come?  Do you argue and make your case known loudly so everyone can hear the truth? Or do you take it patiently and let your actions be your witness?

The apostle Paul was no exception to the rule of being falsely accused.  Most of the time we hope it is just a mistake or a misunderstanding when it happens to us, but in Paul’s case false evidence was made up against him intentionally. It seemed to be a common practice among the religious leaders of that day.  Just as they drummed up charges against Jesus to have Him crucified, they were trying to do the same thing to Paul.  Paul’s response to these charges can be an example to each one of us still today.  He responded with unwavering faith, grace in his defense, patience in waiting for the outcome and in God’s timing.  He also used each one of these opportunities to share the message of the good news.

Let’s take a brief look at how he displayed each one of these attitudes:

1. Unwavering faith – Even though Paul had been detained and wrongly accused, he did not doubt his purpose and his faith in God stood firm.  He was not persuaded to doubt his calling, or the grace and provision God was giving him right in the middle of his circumstances.
2. Grace in his defense – He waited patiently as the charges were brought against him and didn’t interrupt or return accusations against the witnesses.  He waited for his turn to speak and gave a clear and calm explanation even though he was under great pressure to be very defensive.
3. Patiently waited for the outcome – Again, after everyone gave their side of the situation, Paul was held longer to wait for another witness.  He didn’t get a bad attitude about it, he just continued to do what he could to share God’s message of salvation right in the middle of his crisis.
4. Confident of God’s timing – Paul trusted that God was with him through it all and He was orchestrating the circumstances with perfect timing.

Today I want to encourage you to not get riled up and defensive with misunderstandings and offenses come in your life.  Follow Paul’s example of unwavering faith, grace, patience and God’s hand on the situation.  Determine that your witness for Him is the most important outcome and share the love of God with all those involved throughout the entire process.  The same way He was with Paul in his troubles, He is with you in yours.

Today’s scripture reading: Acts 24:1-21

1 Now after five days Ananias the high priest came down with the elders and a certain orator named Tertullus. These gave evidence to the governor against Paul.

2 And when he was called upon, Tertullus began his accusation, saying: “Seeing that through you we enjoy great peace, and prosperity is being brought to this nation by your foresight, 

3 we accept it always and in all places, most noble Felix, with all thankfulness. 

4 Nevertheless, not to be tedious to you any further, I beg you to hear, by your courtesy, a few words from us. 

5 For we have found this man a plague, a creator of dissension among all the Jews throughout the world, and a ringleader of the sect of the Nazarenes. 

6 He even tried to profane the temple, and we seized him, and wanted to judge him according to our law. 

7 But the commander Lysias came by and with great violence took him out of our hands, 

8 commanding his accusers to come to you. By examining him yourself you may ascertain all these things of which we accuse him.” 

9 And the Jews also assented, maintaining that these things were so.

10 Then Paul, after the governor had nodded to him to speak, answered: “Inasmuch as I know that you have been for many years a judge of this nation, I do the more cheerfully answer for myself, 

11 because you may ascertain that it is no more than twelve days since I went up to Jerusalem to worship. 

12 And they neither found me in the temple disputing with anyone nor inciting the crowd, either in the synagogues or in the city. 

13 Nor can they prove the things of which they now accuse me. 

14 But this I confess to you, that according to the Way which they call a sect, so I worship the God of my fathers, believing all things which are written in the Law and in the Prophets. 

15 I have hope in God, which they themselves also accept, that there will be a resurrection of the dead, both of the just and the unjust. 

16 This being so, I myself always strive to have a conscience without offense toward God and men.

17 “Now after many years I came to bring alms and offerings to my nation, 

18 in the midst of which some Jews from Asia found me purified in the temple, neither with a mob nor with tumult. 

19 They ought to have been here before you to object if they had anything against me. 

20 Or else let those who are here themselves say if they found any wrongdoing in me while I stood before the council, 

21 unless it is for this one statement which I cried out, standing among them, ‘Concerning the resurrection of the dead I am being judged by you this day.’ ”

Armed protection

Then the soldiers, as they were commanded, took Paul and brought him by night to Antipatris.  Acts 23:31

 I remember several years back, I was having some concerns and actually great fear came on me for the protection of my family.  I began to think about what it would be like if something tragic were to happen to one of them.  Of course, the more I thought about it the more terrified and helpless I felt.  I began to pray about it and ask the Lord what I would do and how could I live with this fear of what could possibly happen in the unknown future.  I am actually glad that I had this conversation with Him because what He showed me in that moment has brought me peace every time that fear tries to creep into my thought life. 

In just a moment of time, He showed me that I can ask and believe for God’s divine protection for my family and loved ones.  In the very same way and with the exact same faith that I asked Him to come into my life and be my Lord and Savior, I could ask Him in faith to protect and watch over those I love and care for.  Then He reminded me of Scripture such as Psalms 91 that say He put His angels in charge of us to keep us in all our ways, Psalms 34 that say the angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear Him, Psalms 23 that says when I walk through valleys, He is with me and protects and 2 Thessalonians 3:3 that He is faithful to strengthen and protect from the evil one.

I am encouraged once again as I read through today’s reading when the apostle Paul’s life was threatened by a group that had actually taken a vow to kill him.  God provided him with an armed escort right into the king’s palace where he was protected by the greatest military force on the face of the earth at that point in time.  As I read through to the end of the chapter, I saw that He was kept in Herod’s praetorium, but always thought that was a prison.  It turns out that he was actually in the palace that king Herod had built on the Mediterranean Sea as a place of retreat and no one trying to kill Paul could get to him there. This is actually where he spent the next two years before going on to Rome as we will read in the coming chapters.  It was also the place that he wrote many letters to the churches that we are still reading yet today.

Today I want to encourage you as you read through this passage of scripture to consider how great our heavenly Father is.  Is He big enough to keep you and your loved ones safe as you commit each one of them into His hand?  Is He able to send military forces and armed escorts to protect from evil coming against you?  Does His plan for your life include taking care of the details right down to your health and well-being?  You decide and while you are at it, decide that you are going to trust Him no matter what the circumstances look like to supply you with every kind of grace to get your purpose for being in this world accomplished.  This is why it is so important to find out your mission and assignment in life because when you do, there is nothing that can stop you from finishing because God will make sure you are successful

Today’s scripture reading: Acts 23:23-35

23 And he called for two centurions, saying, “Prepare two hundred soldiers, seventy horsemen, and two hundred spearmen to go to Caesarea at the third hour of the night; 

24 and provide mounts to set Paul on, and bring him safely to Felix the governor.” 

25 He wrote a letter in the following manner:

26 Claudius Lysias,

To the most excellent governor Felix:

Greetings.

27 This man was seized by the Jews and was about to be killed by them. Coming with the troops I rescued him, having learned that he was a Roman. 

28 And when I wanted to know the reason they accused him, I brought him before their council. 

29 I found out that he was accused concerning questions of their law, but had nothing charged against him deserving of death or chains. 

30 And when it was told me that the Jews lay in wait for the man, I sent him immediately to you, and also commanded his accusers to state before you the charges against him.

Farewell.

31 Then the soldiers, as they were commanded, took Paul and brought him by night to Antipatris. 

32 The next day they left the horsemen to go on with him, and returned to the barracks. 

33 When they came to Caesarea and had delivered the letter to the governor, they also presented Paul to him. 

34 And when the governor had read it, he asked what province he was from. And when he understood that he was from Cilicia, 

35 he said, “I will hear you when your accusers also have come.” And he commanded him to be kept in Herod’s Praetorium.

Your Anchor

But the following night the Lord stood by him and said, “Be of good cheer, Paul; for as you have testified for Me in Jerusalem, so you must also bear witness at Rome.”  Acts 23:11

Have you ever started out on a project in life?  Something that you were very excited about, a mission that you were sure the Lord was calling you to.  Then when it started taking longer than you thought or it became harder than you anticipated, you change your thinking to say, “I guess that wasn’t God’s will” or “My heart just isn’t in it anymore.”   This is not an uncommon thing.  Many people have given up on their dreams and even assignments from God because the steps of faith required became difficult and so much different than they had originally thought it was going to go.

In today’s reading, the apostle Paul had many reasons to doubt if he was doing the right things or if he was actually following the direction that the Holy Spirit had led him to.   He was now imprisoned and there were many people on the outside wanting to silence him for good.  I’m sure he had questions like “why is this happening to me?” and “All I am trying to do is help people know God. Why is it so hard?”  He had every opportunity to be afraid and confused, but then he got a word from God.  At night, when things got quiet, the Lord stood by him and told him to cheer up because just as he had testified in Jerusalem, he would also do at Rome.  This was an encouragement because now Paul had a word from God to anchor his faith to.  He had gotten words from Him in the past like on the Damascus Road and when he had the dream to go to Macedonia.  Paul used these dreams and visitations as a reminder when things got uncomfortable that he knew he was on the right path even though it was rough.

In the book of 2^nd Peter chapter one, it is written that we today have a “more sure” word than the actual audible words that the disciples had when they walked with Jesus on the earth.  The reason is because it is written down for us to remember and re-read often.  God’s word in the scripture is our anchor and He will lead us to a specific passage each time we ask for an anchor in the storms we face in life.  God’s Spirit will often remind you of a passage or even give a soft reminder for you to take hold of when you ask Him in times of trouble.  This is why I often stress the importance of writing down the words that come up from your heart when you are earnestly seeking His guidance and comfort.  Whether it is looking for a new job or concern for a lost loved one, you can receive God’s comfort right in the middle of it all simply by getting alone with Him and asking what He has to say about the situation.  He may remind you of a verse you have recently read or lead you to a new scripture.  He may even give you a “knowing” in your heart that you can ask Him to back up with a scripture and He will lead you there.  I cannot really explain how it all happens, but I know that it does.  It is simply a step of faith to listen and then believe that you now have an anchor, steadfast and sure! That word from Him will be sealed in your heart with His peace! That is when you will know without a doubt that you have heard from Him because God’s word and presence always brings peace right in the middle of what you are going through.

Today I want to encourage you in whatever you are wrestling with.  Whatever is coming against you in life.  Don’t run away and hide and don’t automatically assume you are on the wrong path.  Unknown times will always come but you can have a “more sure” word to cling to when they do.  Get alone with Him today and ask Him what He says about the situations and listen intently to what you hear in your heart.  Shut down the voice of fear and doubt in your thinking and determine that you will get God’s word on the matter.  When He gives you the word that brings peace, write it down immediately and keep it in a place that you can remember to thank Him for that promise every day until you see it come to pass.  You don’t have to wonder if you made a wrong decision of if you are doing the right things, you can know in your heart by listening to God’s word and following His peace today and every day.

Today’s scripture reading: Acts 23:11-22

11 But the following night the Lord stood by him and said, “Be of good cheer, Paul; for as you have testified for Me in Jerusalem, so you must also bear witness at Rome.”

12 And when it was day, some of the Jews banded together and bound themselves under an oath, saying that they would neither eat nor drink till they had killed Paul. 

13 Now there were more than forty who had formed this conspiracy. 

14 They came to the chief priests and elders, and said, “We have bound ourselves under a great oath that we will eat nothing until we have killed Paul. 

15 Now you, therefore, together with the council, suggest to the commander that he be brought down to you tomorrow, as though you were going to make further inquiries concerning him; but we are ready to kill him before he comes near.”

16 So when Paul’s sister’s son heard of their ambush, he went and entered the barracks and told Paul. 

17 Then Paul called one of the centurions to him and said, “Take this young man to the commander, for he has something to tell him.” 

18 So he took him and brought him to the commander and said, “Paul the prisoner called me to him and asked me to bring this young man to you. He has something to say to you.”

19 Then the commander took him by the hand, went aside, and asked privately, “What is it that you have to tell me?”

20 And he said, “The Jews have agreed to ask that you bring Paul down to the council tomorrow, as though they were going to inquire more fully about him. 

21 But do not yield to them, for more than forty of them lie in wait for him, men who have bound themselves by an oath that they will neither eat nor drink till they have killed him; and now they are ready, waiting for the promise from you.”

22 So the commander let the young man depart, and commanded him, “Tell no one that you have revealed these things to me.”

Happy New Year

Then there arose a loud outcry. And the scribes of the Pharisees’ party arose and protested, saying, “We find no evil in this man; but if a spirit or an angel has spoken to him, let us not fight against God.”  Acts 23:9

Happy New Year everyone!  In 2024, I am committing to praying for you all more.  I appreciate each one of your support by subscribing to the Daily Dose daily devotional and it is especially a great honor to send you a word of encouragement each day.  I ask the Father of our Lord Jesus to bless each one of you who read each day in 2024 and to empower every individual to realize God’s unconditional love for you and to accomplish the plans and purpose He has for your life!

Today I want to talk about the power of a God sized vision.  Many times in life, God puts a thought or idea into a person’s heart.  The bible refers to it as a dream or vision.  When God gives a vision to an individual, it is guaranteed that it will be bigger than the person receiving the dream.  The reason is so that you will have to depend on God, step by step, to accomplish this plan.  It also ensures that you will have to have help and to grow in relationships with the people called to work on the mission with you.  However, when God does drop a direction in your heart, as you talk with Him about it, you will sense faith rising up and the energy you need to move forward on the plan.  Sometime, you will have an idea that will require a time of prayer and preparation to get started.  Other times He is calling you to start today, right where you are.  The key is in putting yourself into a quiet space and spending time listening to His voice within your heart to know just what your next step needs to be. 

In my case, I find myself often worrying about how I am going to do the next thing that is needed.  When that happens, I ask Him, “How am I going to do that?”  But I don’t make excuses, I wait and listen.  Each time I think of that step, I thank God that He has the answer and that He is getting it to me at just the right time.  It may take days before the answer comes or even months.  However, I know God is reminding me about it when the thought comes and that is my que to pray about it some more by believing He is going to show me the answer.  God knows you and He know me and what He really knows is how much time each one of us need to start moving and He strategically plans that into the mission equation.

In today’s reading at the beginning of Acts chapter 23, Paul was brought before the chief priests and all their council so that the commander of the Roman guard could find out what the dispute was about the previous day.  Paul started out his defense by saying that he lived in all good conscience before God everyday.  This statement came the next day after he confessed all he had done to persecute the church the day before, meaning that he had been forgiven and didn’t let his regrets and past sin hold him back from what God had called him to do.

This is often the place where people get stuck in life.  They get saved and into a right relationship with God, but cannot get out of the grip of past sin.  In reality, they are the ones gripping and holding on to the past, but God wants us all to let it go because He has cleansed each one of us with the blood of Jesus and washed every stain of sin away!  Before you are able to “see” where God is leading you in life, you have to be looking in the right direction and that is ahead.  Stop looking behind you at your past sin or the hurts you have experienced.  God is working all of those things for good works now to help others.

As Paul continued to speak Acts 23, the people there came into a great argument.  So that finally one group decided that if Paul had a visitation from heaven whether an angel or God Himself, they did not want to try to fight against what God was doing.

This is usually what happens next to each one of us when given a God sized vision.  As we begin to share with others, they quickly see that the dream is much bigger than we can accomplish on our own, so they dispute and try to “talk some sense” into us.  These nay sayers will knock you right off your course if you listen to them.  Although it is not usually wrong to share what God has put in your heart, be selective and start out talking about the idea with those who will pray with you and be encouraging and especially if you do not know for sure if your dream has come from God or just your own imagination.

Next in the reading, Paul is rescued from the dispute and taken to a safe place.  This is where you need to withdraw to, often.  Create a safe, secret space where you can spend quiet time with God each day and every time you are afraid or confused about what is next in the plan.  A place where you can find peace and rest for your soul.  A place to quiet the external voices and even the internal voices of doubt and unbelief that are talking over Him.  This will take place every single day while working on the assignment and when it is accomplished, you will get in that secret place again for your next mission.

Today I want to encourage you to ask your heavenly Father for a God sized vision for 2024.  This is not setting a goal to become healthier or wealthier.  Although those are not bad goals,  God’s assignment on your life will be something that impacts the people around you everywhere you go, not just your own life.  After you ask Him, begin to thank Him that His plan for your life is on the way and you are ready to receive it and walk it out with His empowerment.  Thank Him everyday for it until you realize what it is.  If you find yourself making excuses because of where you have come from, what you have done in the past or the lack of education you have had, turn those excuses over to Him and get rid of them!  Now you are ready to write down the plan when it comes and begin to pray for where and how to start.  Ask Him who to talk to about it and pray about it with.  Then begin to take steps as He brings them to your thoughts and heart and ask for His strength every step of the way.  Retreat often to thank Him for calling you and for staying close to you step by step and for surrounding you with others to help as you need.  And when you do hear objections or unbelief, ask your loving heavenly Father to protect you from those thoughts and remind you of His grace to do big things for Him.  Make 2024 your best year yet by stepping into the great plan God wants to do through your life!

Today’s scripture reading: Acts 22:30 – 23:1-10

Acts 22:30 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.

Acts 23:1 Then Paul, looking earnestly at the council, said, “Men and brethren, I have lived in all good conscience before God until this day.” 

2 And the high priest Ananias commanded those who stood by him to strike him on the mouth. 

3 Then Paul said to him, “God will strike you, you whitewashed wall! For you sit to judge me according to the law, and do you command me to be struck contrary to the law?”

4 And those who stood by said, “Do you revile God’s high priest?”

5 Then Paul said, “I did not know, brethren, that he was the high priest; for it is written, ‘You shall not speak evil of a ruler of your people.’ ”

6 But when Paul perceived that one part were Sadducees and the other Pharisees, he cried out in the council, “Men and brethren, I am a Pharisee, the son of a Pharisee; concerning the hope and resurrection of the dead I am being judged!”

7 And when he had said this, a dissension arose between the Pharisees and the Sadducees; and the assembly was divided. 

8 For Sadducees say that there is no resurrection—and no angel or spirit; but the Pharisees confess both. 

9 Then there arose a loud outcry. And the scribes of the Pharisees’ party arose and protested, saying, “We find no evil in this man; but if a spirit or an angel has spoken to him, let us not fight against God.”

10 Now when there arose a great dissension, the commander, fearing lest Paul might be pulled to pieces by them, commanded the soldiers to go down and take him by force from among them, and bring him into the barracks.

God’s plan

Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not wanting to make her a public example, was minded to put her away secretly. Matthew 1:19

Yesterday’s dose was focused on women and their purpose in creation.  Today I want to talk about men and God’s plan for them in the family unit.  When God gave Eve to Adam, Adam said this is now bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh.  Then God joined them together and they became one flesh.  Adam named her woman because she came out of man or in other words, she a was part of him.

In today’s scripture, we see Joseph, Jesus’ earthly father, wanting to protect Mary from becoming a public example.  Even though I’m sure he was hurt and confused about the news of her being pregnant, he didn’t respond in anger and determine to make her pay for the pain she had caused him.  He had in mind to deal with her in private to protect her reputation and he did not want to shame her.

This is a perfect example of God’s heart for the way a husband loves and cares for his wife.  God wanted man to protect and provide for her.  The directive God gave was not, this is someone who will complete you and help you in all your accomplishment, (even though she does do that).  Rather it was: Here is a precious gift for you to nurture, care for and protect from all outside forces.  She is a part of you so pay attention to her needs the way you pay attention to your own. God never intended for man to dominate his wife, that is not the reason God told her to submit to him.  He gave the husband responsibility to make sure his wife was his number one priority and that she should trust him because he loves her above all other things in the world including himself.

It is easy to see how God’s plan for a married couple would work if kept in His perfect order.  A husband loves his wife above all others (including himself) and she submits everything to him and his direction because she knows he always has her best interest in his heart and likewise she has his.  I have heard it said that men want respect from their wife and women want security and I do believe this is true.  However, the kind of security she wants is in knowing that she is the most precious and protected person in his world, secure in his love for her, not the security of dollars in the bank account.  If he holds her up as the most precious part of him, she will know she can surrender all to him and he will protect that too.

Today I want to encourage you men/husbands to love your wife in the same way that Christ loves the church and gave Himself for it (Eph. 5:25.) Hold her in such a regard that you would even give your life if needed to protect your most precious gift from God.  Make her feel secure by the way you lift her far above all other people in your life and trust me, you will have no problem with her submitting to you after that.  It is all she wants, but it is up to you to take the first step.  Next, I want to encourage all wives to honor and respect your husband.  If he is a husband that doesn’t quite get the order that God planned, it will be easier for him to do his part if you are doing yours.  You don’t need to be telling him the way to love you, instead begin to speak to him with honor and let him take the leading role in your marriage and family.  Then pray for him as he steps into the position of head of the household and God will partner with your efforts because you are living by His structure.

Today’s scripture reading: Matthew 1:18-25

18 Now the birth of Jesus Christ was as follows: After His mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Spirit.

19 Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not wanting to make her a public example, was minded to put her away secretly.

20 But while he thought about these things, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take to you Mary your wife, for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit.

21 And she will bring forth a Son, and you shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins.”

22 So all this was done that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the Lord through the prophet, saying:

23 “Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel,” which is translated, “God with us.”

24 Then Joseph, being aroused from sleep, did as the angel of the Lord commanded him and took to him his wife,

25 and did not know her till she had brought forth her firstborn Son. And he called His name Jesus.

A position of success

_{Judah begot Perez and Zerah by Tamar, Perez begot Hezron, and Hezron begot Ram. Ram begot Amminadab, Amminadab begot Nahshon, and Nahshon begot Salmon. Salmon begot Boaz by Rahab, Boaz begot Obed by Ruth, Obed begot Jesse, and Jesse begot David the king. Matthew 1:3-6}

The book of Matthew starts off with the genealogy of Jesus.  You may have read through genealogies in the Old Testament, or not, but it is surprising the things you can learn in the comments about some of the people, the nation and the culture of the time.

I want to focus on the four women mentioned in the lineage of Jesus in Matthew’s account.  They are Tamar, Rahab, Ruth and Bathsheba.  I believe God specifically choose each one of these ladies to send a message to all people of the future.  I had initially thought that I was going to write about God working with everyone despite what is in our past, but after taking a closer look I see something different now.

Each one of these women were victims of their circumstances and destined to live as a childless widow for the rest of their lives. A fate, in that culture, that was worse than being dead. Yet, they each made a decision that changed the direction they were headed.  A step of faith that brought God on the scene of their lives and opened the doors for them to walk through right into the blood line of the Son of God.

As I consider these women, the times they lived in and the future they were headed for, I pause to reflect on my own life’s journey.  I have always considered myself to be strong and capable, but ultimately, I know it has been my faith that carried me through many difficult seasons.  I have had failed relationships and I have spent time alone without a husband.  However, while being a single parent in the current culture can still be difficult, it is widely accepted by the world’s standard and there are many programs available to help.  I can see my purpose more clearly now more than ever before.  I am a woman created by God to love and care for a family and household.  I remember times when I was alone and thinking I couldn’t go on.  Thankfully, I knew my children counted on me to be there and provide for our little home.  They were the reason on many days that I kept on going.

Today I want to encourage you if you are a wife and mother.  This is your greatest success in life and your #1 mission.  You were created to fulfill this role and to train up leaders for the next generation.  Your reach spans the generations from mom to grandma to great grandparent.  You are creating a legacy right in your home in your little corner of the world.  If you are not married or have no children, I want to encourage you that this can change, and you can still fulfill this mission in life.  Talk to God about it and trust that He is leading you to the open doors that you are preparing to walk through by faith. Ask Him for the strength and wisdom to position yourself as He leads.  If you are a husband and father, be thankful for the wife and family God has given you to love and provide for.  Proverbs 18:22 says that finding a wife is a good thing and shows the Lord’s favor on your life!  God created women as the answer to the first problem (man being along) and that solution is still going strong in the world today.

Today’s scripture reading: Matthew 1:1-17

1 The book of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the Son of David, the Son of Abraham:

2 Abraham begot Isaac, Isaac begot Jacob, and Jacob begot Judah and his brothers. 

3 Judah begot Perez and Zerah by Tamar, Perez begot Hezron, and Hezron begot Ram. 

4 Ram begot Amminadab, Amminadab begot Nahshon, and Nahshon begot Salmon. 

5 Salmon begot Boaz by Rahab, Boaz begot Obed by Ruth, Obed begot Jesse, 

6 and Jesse begot David the king. David the king begot Solomon by her who had been the wife of Uriah. 

7 Solomon begot Rehoboam, Rehoboam begot Abijah, and Abijah begot Asa. 

8 Asa begot Jehoshaphat, Jehoshaphat begot Joram, and Joram begot Uzziah. 

9 Uzziah begot Jotham, Jotham begot Ahaz, and Ahaz begot Hezekiah. 

10 Hezekiah begot Manasseh, Manasseh begot Amon, and Amon begot Josiah. 

11 Josiah begot Jeconiah and his brothers about the time they were carried away to Babylon.

12 And after they were brought to Babylon, Jeconiah begot Shealtiel, and Shealtiel begot Zerubbabel. 

13 Zerubbabel begot Abiud, Abiud begot Eliakim, and Eliakim begot Azor. 

14 Azor begot Zadok, Zadok begot Achim, and Achim begot Eliud. 

15 Eliud begot Eleazar, Eleazar begot Matthan, and Matthan begot Jacob. 

16 And Jacob begot Joseph the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus who is called Christ.

17 So all the generations from Abraham to David are fourteen generations, from David until the captivity in Babylon are fourteen generations, and from the captivity in Babylon until the Christ are fourteen generations.

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,