DAILY DEVOTIONS
Monday, July 1, 2024
This meditation outline
will not appear every day. If you like to use it, please copy it for future
use. Read the scripture and meditate on the verse using these questions:
T - (Thanks) What in these
verses makes me thankful?
R - (Regret) What do these
verses reveal that show my need to confess my sin?
I - (Intercession) What do I
need to ask God for in prayer for others and myself?
P - (Purpose/Plan) What
action or purpose do these verses encourage me to take?
**Thoughts to Ponder by
Pastor Larry Sydow, Prayers by Pastor Bruce Freeman.**
SCRIPTURE
2 Kings 6:16 — Elisha
replied to his servant, “Do not be afraid, for there are more with us than
there are with them.”
1 Peter 1:5 — You are
being protected by the power of God through faith for a salvation, ready to be
revealed in the last time.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
I stood in the moon shadow of
a giant fir tree in Minnesota, watching some Jr. High boys who had “escaped”
from their cabin. The delusion that they had “escaped” made them giddy with
joy. They started a bonfire, but the unusual night-time breeze kept fanning the
flames and sending sparks into dry leaves, starting a small fire near the trees
they did not see. I stepped out to stomp out the fire and then helped them put
out their fire. Using water from the lake, we made sure both fires were out. As
we started back to the cabin, one of the boys said he was glad I was there to
stop it from becoming a forest fire. Ah! Jr. High! That crazy, confusing,
mixed-up age when we were invincible, indestructible, and nearly god-like! We
weren’t called “Jr. High” in country school. We were just the “big kids.” It
was the age when I had given up on Roy Rogers; my African safaris into
head-hunters’ territory in our grove of trees had lost their glamor, and
numerous excellent bloody wars faded into distant memories. “Juniorhighitis”
seems to hit at an earlier age, now but the one common symptom that flows into
senior high school is the inability to admit that we are mortal. Death happened
to others. Pictures of children being victims of abuse, shootings, stabbings,
and wars are slowly dispelling that lie. We don’t always have a parent,
teacher, pastor, or guardian standing by to keep us from danger, but God
“neither slumbers nor sleeps.” We must learn to hear God’s warning voice and
pay attention to the “guardian of our souls.” Is your faith growing through
worship and study of God’s Word so that you can benefit from the power of God’s
protection?
PRAYER
I realize there are so
many dangers in the world, heavenly Father. I pray that You stay with me and
protect me throughout this day. Strengthen me through worshiping You and the
study of Your Word. In the name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Tuesday, July 2, 2024
SCRIPTURE
Psalm 91:9 — You have made
the Lord your refuge.
2 Corinthians 3:11-12 —
And if what was fading away came with glory, how much greater is the glory of
that which lasts! Therefore, since we have such a hope, we are very bold.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
I love children, especially
little children. They are so honest and trusting. They can be a challenge. More
than once, they have wiped out many brilliant ideas I had for a children’s
sermon and remolded them into something I hadn’t intended. It worries me when I
hear them refer to me as God or Jesus. I know they like me, but those are such
lofty titles and difficult pedestals to try living on! Sometimes, they come
running when they see me as if I were their best friend. Then, as if they
remember who I am, shyness sets in, and they quickly “take refuge” behind Mom
or Dad, unable even to “give me five.” Gradually, they lose their shyness and
we are friends again. God longs for that kind of trust and love from us. Yes,
God wants us to respect and love Him with reverent awe. But God’s great desire
is for us to hide ourselves in the protection His loving arms provide. Like our
mighty, loving Parent, God’s great joy comes when we take refuge in Him, in
good times and in bad. Have you become so familiar with God that you feel
comfortable taking refuge in the Lord?
PRAYER
O dear Father, take me
into Your loving arms and surround me with Your care. I pray that I will know You
are enfolding me at the very times that I feel the weakest and also at the
times I feel self-sufficient and in need of no one. Thank You for loving me so
much. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Wednesday, July 3, 2024
SCRIPTURE
Psalm 147:14 — The Lord
grants peace within your borders.
Ephesians 5:1-2 —
Therefore, be imitators of God, as beloved children, and live in love.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Imitating others can be a
good way to learn new things, but can also be dangerous. Part of the learning
curve of growing up in a country school was learning who to imitate and when!
Imitating Marilyn’s style of art got me a compliment from the teacher. Trying
to imitate the “big kids” to be funny got me a smack in the head, and tripped
by one of them. Trying to jump over a strand of barbed wire like my uncle did
landed me flat on my back, bleeding profusely, and in the doctor’s office for
stitches. The authors of scripture encourage their readers to be careful who
they imitate. True peace comes from imitating the Lord God, not the lawlessness
of humans with power. The competitive, me-centered life of the majority is a
bad thing. Imitating God as a beloved child is a good thing! As you live in the
world, who do you imitate? Would it be good for others, especially your
children, to imitate how you love God and others? Do you imitate the Lord?
PRAYER
Forgive me when I imitate
and follow the example of others instead of being an imitator of You, dear God.
Lead me and let my actions today be God-like, following Your example. I pray
that others will see Your love for them through me. I pray this in the name of
Jesus. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Thursday, July 4, 2024
SCRIPTURE
Malachi 3:6 — For I the
Lord do no change.
1 Corinthians 3:11 — For
no one can lay any foundation other than the one that has been laid; that
foundation is Jesus Christ.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
I love the Fourth of July! As
a kid, it was the one time when Mom would let us have firecrackers and
sparklers. Aside from the burn I got stepping on a spent sparkler with bare
feet, we survived with only a few close calls. We blew up mountains and monuments.
We defeated numerous armies of bad guys with our arsenal of megaton
“Ladyfingers.” We even blew out the obstructions from a raging river. It was
fun and easy to destroy things. Humankind has done that with God’s creation. We
are blowing holes in the ozone layer, killing wildlife, and making vast areas
of land uninhabitable with pollution. Building and rebuilding what we destroy
is the problem. The One who created all things weeps over such “fireworks, but
He also rejoices at each new creation. The physical world can be seen as an
example of our spiritual world. Consider what those analogies might be for your
spiritual life. The good news is that we become a new creation in Jesus through
His forgiveness as we prepare for His ultimate “fireworks” display on the Day
He chooses. Are you content to blow things up and destroy God’s perfect
creation, or are you laying your foundations on Him?
PRAYER
When I view fireworks in
the evening sky, let them remind me of the spectacular new creation You have
made in me through the forgiveness of Your Son, O Father. Use me to protect
what You have made and not destroy what is good. I pray this in the name of my
Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Friday, July 5, 2024
SCRIPTURE
Psalm 60:11 — O grant us
help against the foe, for human help is worthless.
Mark 4:39 — Jesus woke up
and rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, “Peace! Be still!” Then the wind
ceased, and there was a dead calm.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
We can control some storms or
at least manage to deal with them. We always found a way to deal with the
thousands of vicious, cut-throat Zulus and zombies occasionally attempting to
storm our fort. We survived several angry, stampeding buffalo, rhinos, and
elephants storming through the pastures of our farm in Nebraska. We even
weathered the storms of relatives angry about how some other relative treated
them. I’ve survived physical storms (a couple of blizzards and a tornado or
two) and spiritual storms (times of doubt, depression, or disappointment), but
there is more to life than mere survival. Jesus was able to do what humans
could never duplicate. Jesus calmed the storms of illness, disease, demon
possession, sin, death, and the devil. Jesus also calmed the physical storms at
sea and the spiritual storms raging in the hearts of the weak and powerless.
His “Peace! Be Still!” is His gift to all who will receive and believe it. What
are the storms that blow through your life? Are you so convinced you can handle
them yourself that you don’t need Him, or are you willing to let Jesus deal
with them? Why wait until your boat is about to sink? He waits to hear from
you!
PRAYER
O Mighty One, calm the
storms that are raging through me. Bring Your words of comfort and stillness
through Your Word and others. Let me speak to others so that the storms that
have control over them might be stilled with the knowledge of Your love. In the
name of the One who stilled the storm. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Saturday, July 6, 2024
SCRIPTURE
Psalm 25:12 — Who are they
that fear the Lord? He will teach them the way that they should choose.
Mark 3:14-15 — Jesus
appointed twelve, whom he also named apostles, to be with him, and to be sent
out to proclaim the message, and to have authority to cast out demons.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
I always admired some of the
pastors in my “growing-up” years. The first pastor I knew who had a children’s
sermon was one. He used lots of good illustrations. You might say I was in awe
of him. When he left to accept a call to the college, I could think of no other
college I wanted to attend. Without realizing it, I became one of his
disciples. He was eventually replaced by other pastors with many other good
qualities. As I went off to the college of my “hero” pastor, another amazing
pastor came to our church. Like John the Baptist’s disciples becoming Jesus’
disciples, it was an easy transition to looking up to him and learning from
him. I’m sure these pastors had their faults, but I can’t remember or imagine
what they were. I can tell you that their love of the Lord, commitment to
discipleship, and willingness to strive for excellence in ministry have
inspired me to be an apostle of the Lord Jesus Christ. As imperfect as I feel,
I follow their example in proclaiming the message of Christ. As the original apostles
discovered, I know we have the authority to cast out demons in His name! Has
Jesus sent disciples into your life to encourage you to share the good news of
God’s love - not necessarily as a pastor, but wherever you are and in whatever
you do? Have you been paying attention?
PRAYER
Thank You for calling and
inviting me to be one of Your disciples, dear Lord. Use all of my skills and
abilities to work for the building up of Your kingdom. Thank You for my pastor.
Bless their ministry as we work together for Your good. In Your name, I pray, O
Jesus. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Sunday, July 7, 2024
SCRIPTURE
Psalm 36:9 — For with You
is the fountain of life; in Your light we see light.
John 5:7-8 — The sick man
answered him, “Sir, I have no one to put me into the pool when the water is
stirred up; and while I am making my way, someone else steps down ahead of me.”
Jesus said to him, “Stand up, take your mat and walk.”
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
After driving around for at
least a half hour, I finally stopped at a gas station to get directions.
Unfortunately, the person I asked was not very good at giving directions. When
she finished, I was as confused, maybe even more confused, than wandering around
in the dark looking for street signs. Fortunately, a person from the
neighborhood overheard the conversation and spoke up, giving me clear,
easy-to-follow instructions. Following his “map,” we found the place we were
looking for without problems. As a student, I had teachers like both types of
people. Some could take the simplest task and make it sound confusing. Others
could take a difficult task and make it simple to accomplish. The man who had
been sick for 38 years waited by the pool, following ancient instructions to be
the first in the pool when it started to move. When you can’t move fast enough,
that is a difficult task. Jesus made it simple. “Get up and walk!” he said. And
the man did! It may seem like too simple a solution, but the Word of God is the
“fountain of life” - the “light in the darkness” - the “map” to lead us where
He wants us to be. Are you ready and willing to leave the confusion behind and
ask the One who can help you “get up and walk”?
PRAYER
O Holy One who is the
light of the world, shine Your light upon my path that I might walk faithfully
with You. Show me the way so that I might avoid the pitfalls and things that
might trip me. Use me to shine Your light on others who are searching. In the
name of Christ who shines through me. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Monday, July 8, 2024
SCRIPTURE
1 Kings 8:60 — All the
peoples of the earth may know that the Lord is God; there is no other.
1 Timothy 6:16 — It is the
Lord of lords alone who has immortality and dwells in unapproachable light,
whom no one has ever seen or can see; to him be honor and eternal dominion.
Amen.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Marlin climbed to the top of
“Mt. Higher-than-any Mountain-on-Earth” (the roof of an old horse barn near our
country school that had fallen). He carefully balanced an old chair so that two
legs were on each side of the peak, donned a towel for a cape, and a one-pound
coffee can for a crown. Then, with a mighty roar, he raised his fist to the sky
and declared himself King and Ruler of the Universe! Two innocent
kindergartners were his loyal guards. It was a challenge. Even though he was
bigger than the rest of us, we accepted the challenge to knock him down to
size. With determination and glee, we attacked. His “loyal” guards saw us
coming, slid to the ground, and ran for their lives. The “King of the Universe”
lost his crown and almost broke his neck when he fell off his “throne.” God,
the Creator and rightful Ruler of His creation, cannot be “put down.” God truly
is the “Ruler of the Universe”! How comical it must be for God to hear the
claims of earthly rulers proclaiming their power and those who have allowed
“things” to become their gods make claims for them! Who or what rules your
life? Have you given 100% of your loyalty and commitment to the Lord of earthly
lords, the King of earthly kings, the immortal and eternal Ruler of all that
exists?
PRAYER
Almighty One. You created
the heavens and the earth, and I stand in awe of You. I put my allegiance and
trust in You that You will rule my life. I denounce those earthly things that
try to make me loyal to them. Rule in my heart forever. I pray this in the name
of Jesus, my Savior. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Tuesday, July 9, 2024
SCRIPTURE
Isaiah 58:7 — Bring the
homeless poor into your house.
1 Peter 4:9 — Be
hospitable to one another without complaining.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
We experienced an amazingly
warm hospitality in the home of a youth worker in Lublin, Poland. He, his wife, and his infant daughter share a
tiny room and a half-apartment in his parent’s home. The “half” room was a
small inside balcony they shared with the parents. They barely survived on his
meager salary but were happy and generous. They gave us tea and cookies for a
snack. We both noted that neither of them took a cookie. I’m sure it was
because they feared they might not have enough for us. In ancient days and in many
places worldwide, such hospitality was and is considered a sacred obligation.
Those invited into the home are treated like the holy angels Abraham welcomed.
The host and hostess provide their very best and will die protecting their
guests. Sadly, we have lost some of that sacredness due to fear of strangers in
our country and our time. There are still people with special needs I am not
prepared or equipped to welcome. I thank God for Rescue Missions, the Kitchen,
and numerous other organizations who are. What is important is that we who
cannot welcome and entertain strangers need to financially support those who do
so in our name - in the name of our church or community of churches. Have your
gifts brought “the homeless poor” into a place of shelter? Have you helped
others welcome and entertain strangers needing encouragement and hope?
PRAYER
Thank You, O God, for
those organizations that bring generous hospitality to those who welcome the
poor, the homeless, and those searching for a loving home. Bless their ministry
and sustain them. I pray that You will use my resources of time and money to
support them. I ask this in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Wednesday, July 10, 2024
SCRIPTURE
Isaiah 45:22 — Turn to me
and be saved, all the ends of the earth! For I am God, and there is no other.
Matthew 18:3 — Unless you
change and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
A friend returned to college
and took an algebra class. After years away from the books, it is a challenge.
I understand because I did the same thing several years ago. She has one
advantage I didn’t have. Her daughter is in high school and is a whiz at
algebra. After struggling to help her mother, she threw up her hands in
frustration and declared, “You’re making it too complicated!” To the daughter,
it was simple. To the mother, it was confusing. No wonder Jesus loved the
little children! They can keep it simple and uncomplicated. They can turn from
a curious-looking but dangerous snake, taking simple orders that will save
them. They can accept at face value what the Lord has to say without trying to
make it complicated. “Jesus loves me, this I know....” They don’t have to know
all the details of the doctrines. They don’t need answers to all the
complicated questions raised by the incarnation, the virgin birth, the
resurrection, or the ascension. Too many adults complicate faith, trying to
earn their way into heaven. A child will tell you, “Jesus loves me, this I
know....” Jesus has already prepared a place for me in heaven. That’s all
anyone needs to know. Because Jesus loves me, I love others. How hard and
complicated is that? That’s the secret to living with a child-like faith. Why
not try it on for size, or is it too complicated?
PRAYER
Jesus loves me this I
know. How simple are those words of the children’s song, are O Jesus. Make my
heart accept them as a child’s. Help me to show Your love to others by my
actions and words today. Let them know that You also love them. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Thursday, July 11, 2024
SCRIPTURE
Genesis 1:27 — God created
humankind in his image. In the image of God, he created them.
Ephesians 4:24 — Clothe
yourselves with the new self, created according to the likeness of God in true
righteousness and holiness.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Dressing up was fun to do. In
our house at the farm, we had a “junk room” where things we didn’t need or
weren’t used often were stored. That included out-of-season clothes. During winter’s
cold and dreary days, my sister and I enjoyed digging through our parents’ old
clothes and dressing up. Hats were still “in,” and they made a great addition
to our costumes. We “became” new people and tried to act the part. Mom and Dad
got quite a chuckle out of what we became. When God created us in “the image of
God,” our outward “costumes” varied greatly. From infancy to old age, our
outward “costume” changes daily. That is normal. The one thing we have in
common is God’s image - inwardly. We came from God, and we shall return to God.
While our outward image is unimportant to God, our reflection of His glory is!
St. Paul urges his friends to take off the old sinful inward rags we have
accumulated in this world and replace them with our original “God-given”
clothes so that we will be fit to enter the kingdom. God has provided the
“costume,” but we can’t put it on until we let go of the old. Are you ready for
your “virtual makeover”?
PRAYER
Give me a makeover and
help me remove my old clothes of sin which dwell within me, dear God. Put on
those beautiful clothes that reflect Your glory. Fit and prepare me for Your
kingdom. In the name of Jesus. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Friday, July 12, 2024
SCRIPTURE
Nehemiah 8:10 — Do not be
grieved, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.
Matthew 13:44 — Jesus
says, “The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which someone
found and hid; then in his joy, he goes and sells all that he has and buys that
field.”
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Auctions are fun to watch,
but I am the world’s worst when buying anything. I usually let the spirit of
the auctioneer and the competition of other bidders drive me up. I purchased a
used wheelbarrow once (I still have it.), which I could have bought new for
several dollars less. One friend goes to a lot of auctions and knows all the
tricks. He bought a box of what looked like junk to me. But buried in the junk
was an antique I would have thrown away. When another antique dealer saw it, he
offered ten times as much for just that one item! God has buried within each of
us His unique treasure. If we were wise, we’d go to any expense and every
effort to keep that treasure for eternity. Sadly, we sell ourselves too cheaply
for the baubles of this world. We don’t patiently polish that treasure through
worship, Bible study, and prayer. We have not made a habit of keeping our
heavenly treasure safe from those who want to “buy” our time with God cheap!
Have you discovered the strength of the Lord, the treasure already buried in
you? How well are you caring for it?
PRAYER
Help me to find the
treasures that You have placed inside me, heavenly Father. When I have
discovered it, give me the perseverance I need to polish it and make it shine
through my worship, Bible study, and prayer. I pray this in the name of the
Christ. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Saturday, July 13, 2024
SCRIPTURE
Daniel 2:22 — He reveals
deep and hidden things.
Mark 16:14 — Later, he
appeared to the eleven themselves as they were sitting at the table, and he
upbraided them for their lack of faith and stubbornness because they had not
believed those who saw him after he had risen.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
My sister and I walked the
four blocks from my city grandparents to the Rialto Theater for a Sunday
afternoon movie. It was a bitterly cold afternoon that threatened snow at any
time. We arrived just as the projectionist arrived - an hour early. We had the
time wrong! Rather than sending us back or making us stand in the freezing
wind, he invited us in. Then, to our delight, he took us up to the projection
booth. We knew no kids who had ever been into that secret inner sanctum. We had
to be the first! He showed us how he prepared the film and the enormous
projector and divulged many “secrets” we were to tell no one. We were in awe!
Jesus appeared to the apostles and revealed the truth of the “hidden secrets”
he had been teaching them for three years, secrets they were given a commission
to share. Some people they shared with came to believe, while others couldn’t
believe their ears. How could this possibly be?! Jesus encourages us to believe
what the apostles and their disciples through the ages have passed on: God
loves the world enough to send the Son into the world, and when He died with
our sins on Him, He rose from the dead to be with us always as His Spirit lives
in us. Can you grasp these “deep and hidden things” and share them?
PRAYER
Increase my faith, Lord,
that I might come to grasp and believe those “deep and hidden things.” I stand
in awe for Your love and care for me and for keeping me close beside You as You
share the mystery of Your love. Open my mouth to others so they might also know
those “secrets.” In the name of the One who revealed God’s great love. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Sunday, July 14, 2024
SCRIPTURE
Ezekiel 36:36 — The
nations that are left all around you shall know that I, the Lord, have rebuilt
the ruined places and replanted that which was desolate.
1 Corinthians 3:9 — For we
are God’s servants, working together; you are God’s field, God’s building.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
A story is told about a
traveler stopping to compliment a farmer on his fields. “The Lord has sure
blessed this land,” the stranger declared. “Yeh,” replied the farmer, “but you
should have seen it when He was trying to do it alone!” It took the teacher and
our entire country school to build an award-winning float for the Halloween
parade. It took the Lord and the people of God to rebuild the ruins of
Jerusalem. It took the Spirit of God and the witness of the Apostles to create
a vibrant young church. Is it any wonder God still uses those He created to be
His servants and His body to enter His fields?! We are not God’s
after-thoughts. We are the people of God with a purpose. Our purpose is to use
the gifts and talents God has given us to bring in the harvest of souls and to
prepare them for entering the House of God for worship and praise. What a
privilege it is to be instruments of the living God wherever we are and
wherever we go!
PRAYER
I give You thanks, O God, for
choosing me to be Your partner, planting Your field, and bringing in the
harvest of souls. What an incredible privilege! Use me and my abilities as Your
instrument every day of my existence. I pray this in the name of the living
Christ. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Monday, July 15, 2024
SCRIPTURE
Proverbs 16:32 — One who
is slow to anger is better than the mighty, and one whose temper is controlled
than one who captures a city.
James 1:3 — Know that the
testing of your faith produces endurance.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
While in college, I worked
for a man who had the patience of Job. It took a lot to make him angry. Perhaps
I should say it took a lot for anyone to notice that he was angry. He didn’t
say much, but when he did, it carried weight because it contained constructive,
well-thought-out criticism on which we could act. Another person in the same
business had a “short fuse.” When angry, he exploded, often with unrepeatable,
cutting words. After he cooled down, we were left wounded without the ability
or the desire to do anything to correct whatever needed fixing. The first man
followed God’s example. If God were like the second man, we would probably not
be here. But God is “slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.” With that
love, God gave His Son to be our mentor and model for faith. When we model
God’s love, patience, and “slowness to anger,” we discover that God increases
our endurance in all tests and trials. Aren’t you glad God has been slow to
anger with you? Have you practiced following the example of Jesus?
PRAYER
Thank You for being slow
to be angry with me, O God. I am so sorry for those times when my anger and
temper have been quick and sharp. I pray that You increase in me love and
patience so that others might see You through me. In the name of Jesus. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Tuesday, July 16, 2024
SCRIPTURE
Psalm 16:1 — Protect me, O
God, for in You I take refuge.
2 Thessalonians 3:3 — The
Lord is faithful; he will strengthen you and guard you from the evil one.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Entering the bottomless
dungeon where the worst of our monsters hid was a frightening challenge for me
when I was five or six. The horror stories told by my city cousins contributed significantly
to my fears. When Mom sent me out to get some potatoes we stored in the cave,
none of my excuses worked, and I didn’t want to admit that I, almost grown up
in my own eyes, was terrified! I cautiously approached the cellar door, lest
they grab my leg and pull me in before the light chased them deeper. I threw
back the door with a shout and was pretty sure I saw one of them scurrying into
the shadows. The long descent with a bowl for the potatoes, which doubled as a
shield, was at least a mile and a half, or maybe ten miles down into the
monsters’ lair. I was startled by the voice behind me. “Need some help?” It was
Dad!!! I knew Dad could wipe out the worst monsters with one hand tied behind
his back - and they knew it because not one of them attacked while we picked
our potatoes from the storage pile. I am older now, and I face various scary
monsters. Dad has gone ahead of me to heaven, but I am not alone. God is always
with me, no matter where I am. No matter the monster, I have the strength and
refuge of the Lord to guard me against all evil. How about you?
PRAYER
What a wonderful God You
are, O mighty One! Thank You for being with me each day. Thank You that I do
not have to face the monsters of this world alone. Give me strength and courage
to encounter everything that might come my way this day. In the name of
Immanuel, I pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Wednesday, July 17, 2024
SCRIPTURE
Genesis 18:14 — Is
anything too wonderful for the Lord?
Philippians 4:13 — I can
do all things through him who strengthens me.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Our hearts ached when the
doctor informed us that we probably would not be able to have children. For a
time, we grieved, even as we filled out adoption papers for a process we were
told could take a year or two. Because of distance, we could do two interviews
at a time. After several trips from western to eastern Nebraska for the
interviews, we asked our case worker when we would know if we had been approved
for adoption. We were happily surprised to hear, “You have been approved ... and here is a picture of your child!” Our
hearts soared! We had to wait until the following day to receive our bundle of
joy. All the way back to western Nebraska, we marveled and thanked God that He
had a child just for us. That child is now a young man of 50 who lives in
Seattle, has a college degree, and a company of his own. What we could not do,
God did, not in the way we had hoped for or expected, but in God’s way and in
God’s time. God has been the source of great joy, great struggle, and
tremendous pride in this miracle we call Dane. God can do all things! If I were
to tell about all of those my wife and I have experienced, this page would not
be long enough. I’d need a book. What I can say is an answer to the angel’s
question in Genesis, “Nothing is too wonderful for the Lord!!!” Are you willing
to trust in God’s power in your life?
PRAYER
When I genuinely look upon
all that You have done for me throughout my life, O Lord, I can only praise You
and give You thanks. Help me to put my trust in the future in Your hands,
knowing that nothing is impossible for You and that nothing will separate me
from Your love. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Thursday, July 18, 2024
SCRIPTURE
Provers 30:8 — Give me
neither poverty nor riches; feed me with the food that I need.
John 6:35 — Jesus said to
them, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never be hungry, and
whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.”
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
I grew up believing that
unless I cleaned my plate, some poor Chinese kid was going to starve. I’m sure
it came from efforts to get me to eat. I was a “picky” eater in my younger
years and decided there were some things I would rather not eat. In the
interest of keeping me healthy, my parents gave me numerous encouragements,
some of which must have stuck because now I have the bad habit of overeating
everything. However, there are those times when I can stand at the refrigerator
door searching for “something.” I’m hungry, but I don’t know what I want. That
kind of hunger best describes the spiritual hunger many people experience. They
want something, but they don’t know what. Jesus offers to fill that hunger with
Bread, which will be genuinely satisfying - His body and His blood - which will take away our thirst
for something thirst-quenching. Jesus is the only One who answers the
description of the wise man who wanted neither poverty nor riches. He provides
not necessarily what we thought we wanted but what we truly need for our
eternal life. Are you hungry and thirsty for Him yet? All He needs is an
invitation!
PRAYER
O Gracious Lord, I often
hunger and thirst for the spiritual things in life and can’t find them. I am
sorry that, at those times, I neglected to come to You. Fill me with Your Word
and Your love. Satisfy me with Your body and blood so that I will thirst and
hunger no more for spiritual food. In the name of Jesus who comes to me. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Friday, July 19, 2024
SCRIPTURE
Deuteronomy 10:21 — He is
your praise; he is your God.
1 Corinthians 3:21 — So
let no one boast about human leaders.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
One of the men Dad hired
during harvest before I was old enough to help was a man who could tell amazing
stories of the war. He told us he was a World War II veteran and of waking up
in a cold sweat from nightmares of the dead bodies he was ordered to bury with
a large bulldozer. He told of feats of bravery my young mind marveled at. I
pictured him in a uniform with medals to his knees. He was my hero for the
month or two he was with us. Roy Rogers was only in comics and movies. Jordan
was a real, live hero! He promised to take me fishing, but he disappeared the
morning we were to go. He asked my Dad for his pay and left. We later learned
he was a big-time liar who was in prison and never even went to war. It’s hard
to have your hero prove to be a phony. Trusting in human leaders and rulers
often leads to disaster. It did for God’s children in the Bible. They were full
of promises but had no human way of following through. On the other hand, God
has a proven track record for keeping promises and backing them with His power.
The problem of God’s people at every age is learning to always look to God for
guidance and following it, even when (especially when) it contradicts human
wisdom and logic. Human leaders are sure to let us down. God never will. Who
will you worship and follow?
PRAYER
Forgive me for those times
when I have placed more of my faith in leaders of government and business than
in You, O God. I ask that You help and guide them so that all of their
decisions will be pleasing to You. I also pray that I look to Your thoughts so
that all of my actions will be Your will. I pray this in Jesus’ name. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Saturday, July 20, 2024
SCRIPTURE
Job 9:10 — God does great
things beyond understanding and marvelous things without number.
Matthew 15:30 — Great
crowds came to Jesus, bringing with them the lame, the maimed, the blind, the
mute, and many others. They put them at his feet, and he cured them.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
We could have complained
about many things when I was growing up. As a kid, I did my best to list those
complaints, but they usually triggered a sermon on “How good you have it!” By
the time the litany was over, I didn’t feel any better about what I didn’t like
or didn’t have. However, I did recognize that I had food to eat when thousands
of kids my age didn’t. I had a roof over my head and a family who loved me. I
had clothes, toys, everything I really needed, and the possibility of one day
making enough money to get what I didn’t have. Every time it rained, I was
reminded to look at how God washed everything off and watered it so we would
have a good crop. I was encouraged to look at the rainbows, not the muddy
barnyard. The birth of farm animals, the ripening of the seed, and the produce
from the garden were all reminders of the marvelous gifts of God. All that
emphasis on the wonderful works of God probably turned me into the incurable
optimist I am today. There is no problem too big, no situation too hopeless, no
crisis too severe for God to use to amaze us and cause us to stand in reverent
awe! What do you have to complain about? Why not try looking, instead, at the
wonders of God’s creation? Why not think about what God has done for others?
Jesus declared, “These things and even greater shall you do in my name.” God is
willing! Are you?
PRAYER
I often look in awe at Your
creation and the many wonderful things You have done, O Lord. I am sorry for my
dissatisfaction with what You have given me. Make my heart new so that I will
share what You have given me with others instead. In the name of Jesus. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Sunday, July 21, 2024
SCRIPTURE
Psalm 18:49 — For this, I
will extol You, O Lord, among the nations, and sing praises to Your name.
Acts 16:10 — When Paul had
seen the vision, we immediately tried to cross over to Macedonia, being
convinced that God had called us to proclaim the good news to them.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
A young man whose parents
belonged to my congregation in Illinois was halfway through medical school when
he changed majors and entered seminary because he felt the call of God. I know
of other people who have changed occupations entirely - second-career people.
Most of them discovered incredible joy when they finally discovered their
“passion” and their purpose in God’s plan. I found my passion for pastoral
ministry when I left it for a short time to do counseling. For me, counseling
was the detour that helped me discover what I wanted to do and enjoyed - the
road God wanted me to take. Restlessness and searching are not bad. Sometimes,
they are God’s nudge, God’s urge to go somewhere and do something different. I
had an offer to do counseling, and then I received a call to return to what I
really love. Paul had a vision. How does God speak to you? Are you where God
wants you? Has God been leading you to your “passion”? When you discover the
answer, you too will rejoice with me and the Psalmist, singing praises to the
name of the Lord!
PRAYER
Speak, Lord, for Your
servant is listening. What would You have me do? Where would You have me go?
Let my life be for Your purpose. Use me in any way You like, and give me the
passion to do Your will. This I pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Monday, July 22, 2024
SCRIPTURE
Jeremiah 5:24 — Let us
fear the Lord our God, who gives the rain in its season, the autumn rain and
the spring rain, and keeps for us the weeks appointed for the harvest.
Acts 14:17 — God has not
left himself without a witness in doing good - giving you rains from heaven and
fruitful seasons, and filling you with food and your hearts with joy.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
I love summer rains,
especially those that come at the right time and in the right amounts. It’s the
old farmer in me. When I was about five or six, I remember one hot July day,
sifting through dust left behind by a setting hen who found an excellent place
to nest in the shade. (For you city kids, there is no better dust to play in
than that left by a setting hen!) I wondered if it would ever rain. There were
large cracks in the ground. I was pretty sure some of them went down halfway to
China. The crops looked pretty sad, and meal-time chatter by Mom and Dad was
not its usual cheerfulness. We prayed for rain every time we thought of it, and
that was a lot. Then, one afternoon, the sky turned dark, and the breeze picked
up and carried the delicious smell of moisture. Thunder rumbled in the
distance, coming closer and closer. We watched the southwest for signs of a
tornado, as usual, but the rain clouds kept coming. When Mom herded us into the
house, we were all sopping wet but as happy as larks. “Thank you, God,” Mom
declared, and we all responded, “Thank you, God!” Again and again, as the rain
fell, we chanted our little litany. Dad came in from the field, even wetter
than we were, if that was possible, beaming from ear to ear, and joined in the
thanksgiving chant. I do not fear the thunder or the lightning. I rejoice! How
about you?
PRAYER
Thank You for the
life-giving rain You send to us. When I hear the rumble of thunder, let me
rejoice in Your goodness. Be with those who till the land and give them just
the right amount of rain for a bountiful harvest. In the name of Jesus, I pray.
Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Tuesday, July 23, 2024
SCRIPTURE
Psalm 138:6 — For though
the Lord is high, he regards the lowly; but the haughty he perceives from far
away.
1 Corinthians 1:28 — God
chose what is low and despised in the world, things that are not, to reduce to
nothing things that are.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
I grew up in a poor rural
area. All of our neighbors were about as poor as we were. As my universe
expanded beyond our country school district, I realized some people had more
land, more animals, and newer and better equipment that didn’t have to be held
together with baling wire. They seemed to be a little “better” than us ordinary
folk. Grandpa Roenfeldt was as common as the day is long but was elected county
commissioner over people with more money and more social standing, probably
because he could talk to everyday people who were just like him. David wasn’t the
oldest son when God anointed him. He was a lowly shepherd boy. Jeremiah wasn’t
even an adult when God called him. Mary was a humble virgin, a female in a male-dominated
society when God chose her. The fishermen, the tax collector, the Samaritan
woman, the Roman soldier, and the thieves on the cross would not have found
their names on the society page. And then there are you and me. I don’t know
about you, but I am brought to tears at times, thinking of how unworthy I am to
be adopted by God in baptism, anointed by God in confirmation, commissioned by
God in ordination, forgiven by the cross on which He died, nourished by His
body and blood, and blessed by God so many times a day I lose track. Have you
considered how blessed you are to be who you are, with your gifts and the
opportunities to serve Him?
PRAYER
O gracious God, I am
humbled to think that You chose me to do Your work and that You have given me
gifts to use. Thank You for the many blessings You have given and the
opportunities You will send to me. In Christ’s name. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Wednesday, July 24, 2024
SCRIPTURE
Psalm 106:6 — Both we and
our ancestors have sinned; we have committed iniquity, have done wickedly.
Mark 2:17 — Jesus said, “I
have come to call not the righteous but sinners.”
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
One of the neighbors hired me
to disk a field for him. I had done other field work for Dad, but not discing,
so our neighbor told me how he wanted it done. When I finished, he thanked me
for a job well done. I went home feeling pretty good about myself. The next day,
Dad decided that since I knew how to do it, I should also disk one of our
fields. I was proud - and happy. It was better than picking up hay bales!
However, when Dad came out to inspect, he stopped me and told me I was doing it
wrong. He explained that if I kept on the way I was going, we’d have ridges
we’d be bouncing over with the planter. When I looked at what he was telling
me, he was right. I had to change my pattern. For the farmers: Dad was a
contour farmer, but our neighbor was not. God’s people have gotten into a habit
of doing things “the world’s way” rather than God’s way. God’s Word and God’s
spokespeople call us back to following God’s purpose, God’s plan, and God’s
pattern. We are sinners who have been “recalled” by God. Fortunately, God loves
us enough to lead us back to His pattern. Are you stuck in your ways, the way we’ve always done it, or are
you willing to change directions for the sake of the Lord?
PRAYER
Change isn’t bad, dear
Lord unless it’s me that You want to change. Forgive me when I reject new ways
because they have never been done. Open my heart and mind so I may be filled
anew with Your Spirit. I pray this in the name of Jesus. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Thursday, July 25, 2024
SCRIPTURE
Psalm 51:15 — O Lord, open
my lips, and my mouth will declare Your praise.
Acts 4:20 — Peter and John
said, “We cannot keep from speaking about what we have seen and heard.”
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
We just came back from
confirmation camp. It was a fantastic week. Several years ago, one of the
campers wasn’t sure he wanted to go. I was later told that this ordinarily
quiet kid hadn’t stopped talking about his experiences from the time he got
home. Another of my young friends won a trip to Disney World recently. She was
thrilled! I couldn’t remember the dates she and her family were going, but her
face told it all when she returned. It was so much fun to see her pictures and
hear her stories. The Samaritan woman at the well could not keep her good news
to herself. The blind man who was healed and the person from whom a legion of
demons was cast spread the good news everywhere. When great things happen in
life, it is hard to keep them to ourselves. Does the fact that God loves you,
the fact that Jesus died for you, and the fact that He already has a place
prepared for you, when compared with Disney World, will make Disney World seem
like a city dump - does any of that stir you up enough to make you want to tell
the whole world?!! If not, why not?
PRAYER
Have I heard the good news
of Your fantastic love too many times, dear Lord? Forgive me when I take this fantastic,
exciting news for granted, and do not share my excitement with a world that
might not have heard it at all. Thrill me this day to the joy of Your love. In
Jesus’ name. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Friday, July 26, 2024
SCRIPTURE
Jeremiah 16:19 — O Lord,
my strength and my stronghold, my refuge in the day of trouble.
Mark 5:22-24 — Jairus came
and, when he saw Jesus, fell at his feet and begged him repeatedly, “My little
daughter is at the point of death. Come and lay your hands on her so that she
may be made well and live.” So he went with him.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Returning from a conference
in Colorado, I took a shortcut to the small town where we lived in western
Nebraska: Potter. Unfortunately, I missed one turn and ended on an unmaintained
road with thawing snow. Before I knew what had happened, we were sliding
sideways on the greasy road, and the front end of the car came to rest in the
ditch, with the back wheels barely touching the road. I had to walk a mile and
a half to a farm to beg the farmer to tow us out. I was so happy he did! No one
was hurt (Well, my pride was pretty badly bruised, but that doesn’t count!), but
it helps me imagine the relief, joy, and delight Jairus must have had when
Jesus went with him to heal his daughter. Being stuck in a ditch is a pretty
helpless feeling, but to have a child at the point of death is far worse. Jesus
“knows our every weakness”. As with Jairus, He comes to us when we call on Him.
He doesn’t always come in the way or the expected form. It may be as a farmer
with a log chain. It may be as a nurse with a pill or a word. It may be in the
words or the helping hand of anyone God sends - even you or me. But Jesus is
there! That is His promise. Have you gone “off the road” a time or two? Why not
call on Jesus to pull you back?
PRAYER
Please hear me when I call
to You, O God. I thank You for the many wonderful ways You have shown me in the
past that You are listening; the people who have shown me kindness, who have
nursed me to health, and who have had a willing ear. Pull me back into Your
ways. In the name of my Savior. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Saturday, July 27, 2024
SCRIPTURE
Exodus 20:14 — You shall
not commit adultery.
John 8:10-11 — Jesus
straightened up and said to her, “Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned
you?” She said, “No one, sir.” And Jesus said, “Neither do I condemn you. Go
your way, and from now on, do not sin again.”
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
As I was growing up, we
always used Farmall tractors on the farm. Some neighbors had John Deeres, but
we were a Farmall farm. The thought of getting a John Deere was out of the
question! To do so was to be unfaithful to the dear old red tractors. (That was
even before “Big Red” was big in Nebraska!) We grew up Lutherans, and when a
relative married and joined another denomination, it appeared to be like
“spiritual adultery”! However, the Bible discusses something more serious than
tractors, football teams, or denominationalism. It is talking about
relationships. We are called to be faithful to our spouses “until death parts
us.” Biblical adultery refers to one spouse having an intimate relationship
with someone who is not their spouse. It is the same Word used to describe
God’s people when they became intimate with or worshiped other gods.
Faithfulness to God and faithfulness to spouse were, and are, held up for us as
God’s plan and model. Failure in either breaks trust but is forgivable by God,
provided we “go and do not sin again.” The good news we can celebrate is found
in Jesus’ words: “Neither do I condemn you....” How faithful have you been - to
your spouse? How faithful have you been to your God?
PRAYER
When I am tempted to be
untrue to either You or my spouse, dear God, remind me of Your commandments and
will. Forgive me when my thoughts are not of You or the one whom You have sent
to be my helpmate. Let me celebrate in Your undying love for me. In the name of
Jesus. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Sunday, July 28, 2024
SCRIPTURE
Job 42:5-6 — I had heard
of You by the hearing of the ear, but now my eye sees You; therefore I despise
myself, and repent in dust and ashes.
1 Corinthians 15:8 — Last
of all Christ appeared also to me.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
He was named after the early
American songwriter Stephen Foster, so his name was familiar to me. I read two
of his books on medicinal herbs, my other hobby, and I heard about him from
other members of our herb club, but he was only another author with many
impressive degrees. Then, I heard him speak at a symposium and was impressed
with his thorough knowledge. But it was not until a later event, that I met him
and could talk to him in the flesh that I began to appreciate him as a person.
Job heard about God and may have even read about Him. Still, until he personally
encountered God, God was just another disinterested Observer who made his life
miserable. Paul had heard about Jesus. He may have even read about him on the
ancient equivalent of a “wanted poster.” He even went about persecuting those
who claimed to believe in Jesus as the Messiah. Still, until he met the risen
Lord on the way to Damascus, Jesus was only a subject of heresy by misguided
troublemakers making outlandish claims about His missing body. Have you heard
about Jesus? Have you read his Book? Have you personally encountered Him? If
not, He’d love to have you meet Him - up close and personal. If you have met
Him, how has your life been changed as a result?
PRAYER
Come, Lord Jesus, and be a
part of my life. Let me know You as a friend and companion. Help me draw closer
to You each day. Thank You that my life has been changed because of knowing You.
In Your name. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Monday, July 29, 2024
SCRIPTURE
Leviticus 22:32 — You
shall not profane my holy name.
Philippians 2:9-10 —
Therefore, God also highly exalted him and gave him the name that is above
every name, so that at the name of Jesus, every knee should bend, in heaven and
on earth and under the earth.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
He was said to be an
excellent house painter when sober. He spent most of his time in the bar, and
his kids practically lived there because their mother left them all. Mention
the family name, and it could be seen in the eyes of those you were talking to
that nothing good could come out of that family. I was in high school then, and
our small church was short on Sunday School teachers, so I was given a class to
teach in which one of the boys was a member. I was puzzled by the oldest boy because,
with his name, I expected trouble. But he was a good kid. He was polite, paid
attention, and tried his best in whatever we did for class projects. Other
family names in our small town and community also gathered reputations for good
or bad. In the days of the Bible, a person’s name and reputation were so
important that the family could starve or be unable to do business if the name
was tarnished. With that thought in mind, God demands that His name be held in
the highest esteem. With that thought in mind, Jesus was given “the name above
every name.” How well do you care for and respect the name of Jesus? Does your
life as a member of His body give the name of Christ a spotless
reputation?
PRAYER
In Your name, I bow my
head in humble service. It is so common to hear Your name misused, dear God,
that I sometimes do not take heed of how it is used. I pray that I might always
keep Your name holy and in the best regard. I pray this in Jesus’ name. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Tuesday, July 30, 2024
SCRIPTURE
Proverbs 11:24 — Some give
freely, yet grow all the richer; others withhold what is due, and only suffer
want.
1 Timothy 6:17 — As for
those who in the present age are rich, command them not to be haughty, or to
set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but rather on God who richly
provides us with everything for our enjoyment.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
When I was growing up, I
often daydreamed about what it would be like to have a lot of money. I’d list everything
I could buy for my family and myself. I plotted on an imaginary map all the
places we would go and the things we would do. (We would have spent a lot of
time at Disneyland!) I usually got tired of that little exercise, not because I
thought it was a futile waste of time but because I ran out of things I thought
I wanted or needed. I thought of others I could help who I believed needed it
more than I did. In my mind, I even built our church, a new building with all
the best and latest things in it. But even that made me think that being rich
would be more hassle than it was worth. Isn’t it good to know that God has nothing
against being financially wealthy? The warning still holds that “money is the root
of all evil.” It is not evil, but it can lead to evil. Perhaps that was what I sensed
in my younger days - the importance of the stewardship of whatever God gives
us. One of the dangers associated with wealth is forgetting Who made it
possible and Who it ultimately belongs to. I know several wealthy people who
have developed a mission statement for their lives to help them remember, keep
them humble, and always strive to serve their Lord. I don’t envy them their
wealth. I admire their stewardship - their care-taking of God’s gifts. How well
do you manage what God entrusts to you?
PRAYER
Thank You for abundantly
blessing me with money and riches, heavenly Father. All that I have belongs to You.
Help me to use everything You have given me wisely and for Your service. I pray
this in Jesus’ name. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Wednesday, July 31, 2024
SCRIPTURE
Psalm 103:12 — As far as
the East is from the West, so far he removes our transgressions from us.
Ephesians 2:4-5 — But God,
who is rich in mercy, out of the great love with which he loved us even when we
were dead through our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
I grew up in eastern
Nebraska. When I was six or seven, I traveled as far west from our farm in
Stanton as Albion (60 miles) to visit a cousin who was a doctor there. (For
non-Nebraskans, that is about 130 miles west of Omaha.) But I didn’t travel any
further west until years later. Then, I received a call to be the pastor of a
wonderful church in western Nebraska - Potter. We learned how far the West is
from the East in Nebraska every time we went home for a visit. It was a long
way (400+ miles). I have been to Eastern Europe and discovered how far the East
is from the West - in distance and culture! Thank God His love and forgiveness
are not limited by distance but are encompassing! The woman caught in adultery
was as shocked by Jesus’ lack of condemnation as the disciples. The Pharisees
were outraged by the ease with which Jesus forgave the paralytic. The disciples
were amazed at the mathematics of forgiving seventy times seven times (a number
symbol for limitlessness). How thrilled the thief on the cross beside Jesus
must have been to hear the undeserved words of forgiveness and the promise of
paradise. But that is the heart of God’s grace! His dying words on the cross to
the world should give us joy, too: “Father, forgive them for they know not
what they do.” How far will you reach out to receive His limitless
grace?
PRAYER
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