Friday, October 7, 2011

Exodus 13:19

"Moses took the bones of Joseph with him, for Joseph had made the sons of Israel swear to do this. He said, 'God will certainly come to help you. When he does, you must take my bones with you from this place.'"

Here is a glimpse into the nature of faith. We see Joseph's faith that God would help his people. That's the kind of God Joseph had come to know. Joseph had made the "sons of Israel" swear to take his bones with them when that happened. His faith may have been a spiritual anchor during the years of the Israelites' slavery in Egypt. Joseph's faith carried what happened to him in the past into the future, until finally it was fulfilled in history. What anchors of faith keep you going?

Thursday, October 6, 2011

Matthew 21:20–22

"The disciples were amazed when they saw this and asked, 'How did the fig tree wither so quickly?'

       Then Jesus told them, 'I tell you the truth, if you have faith and don't doubt, you can do things like this and much more. You can even say to this mountain, "May you be lifted up and thrown into the sea," and it will happen. You can pray for anything, and if you have faith, you will receive it.' "

Faith without doubts about what is possible can work miracles. Jesus had faith in his authority to make things happen. He has also given us great authority to rule this world if we do so while under his guidance. Our faith in Jesus' authority gives us access to it. We can expect changes in this world through our faith, which leads us to pray according to God's will. What do you need to believe and ask God for in prayer?

Tuesday, October 4, 2011

There Is Wisdom and Goodness in Walking in God's Ways

Read:  Matthew 7:7 - 8:4
Read:  Psalm 1:1-3 then Psalm 37:23, 24
 
What good things does God promise to those who search for him and walk in his ways?  What kind of person makes the decision to walk through the narrow gate and build on the Rock?  What kind of person are you?  On what path do you walk?  What will be the reward of that path?

Monday, October 3, 2011

Psalm 26:1–3

"Declare me innocent, O LORD,
      for I have acted with integrity;
      I have trusted in the LORD without wavering.
      Put me on trial, LORD, and cross-examine me.
      Test my motives and my heart.
      For I am always aware of your unfailing love,
      and I have lived according to your truth."

Trust and an awareness of God's unfailing love form the basis of right actions. They lead to integrity and a clear conscience. Remember that holiness starts in the heart; it's a result of knowing experientially who God is and what he's like. Don't try to be good; simply steep yourself in God's character. Knowing God should be the goal of any reading of the Bible. Knowing God is what transforms you.