"But at night an angel of the Lord opened the prison doors and brought them out, and said, 'Go, stand in the temple and speak to the people all the words of this life.' And when they heard that, they entered the temple early in the morning and taught."
Acts 5:19-21
Night-time can be the worst time. When all the hustle and bustle of the day recedes into quietness, the mind is free to ponder the issues that confront, and we end up in the prison of "Why this?" or "Why that?" I can imagine the apostles were questioning why they were in prison when they were just obeying God. Had He forsaken them? But night can also be the time that God can reveal Himself. This was not the last time that God delivered the Apostles from prison at night (Peter, Acts 12:5-8; Paul and Silas, Acts 16:25-26).
God does not forsake us just because we are in "night" situations. He is there to deliver.
Today's Thought: God is with us in the dark times of night.
Have a God-present day (and night). Love you.
Monday, January 31, 2011
Friday, January 28, 2011
Dad's Ramblings -- Life's A Piece of Cake?
"Then the high priest rose up, and all those who were with him (which is the sect of the Sadducees), and they were all filled with indignation, and laid their hands on the apostles and put them in the common prison."
Acts 5:17-18
When I think life is tough, I need to remember the lives of the early Christians who were imprisoned – and worse, and those who today are being persecuted for the sake of their faith. Their sufferings make whatever I am going through seem like a piece of cake.
Today's Thought: My life, compared to some Christians, is easy.
Have a thankful day. Love you.
Acts 5:17-18
When I think life is tough, I need to remember the lives of the early Christians who were imprisoned – and worse, and those who today are being persecuted for the sake of their faith. Their sufferings make whatever I am going through seem like a piece of cake.
Today's Thought: My life, compared to some Christians, is easy.
Have a thankful day. Love you.
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Dad's Ramblings -- The Shadow
"And believers were increasingly added to the Lord, multitudes of both men and women, so that they brought the sick out into the streets and laid them on beds and couches, that at least the shadow of Peter passing by might fall on them."
Acts 5:14-15
Multitudes from the surrounding cities (vs. 16) gathered to the apostles as they met in Solomon's Porch (vs. 12). They were attracted like bees to flowers because of the blessing. Everyone leaves a shadow that touches other peoples' lives. That shadow can be positive or negative – blessing or cursing. That shadow can attract people who want to be near, or repel people who want to avoid it. I want my shadow to be a blessing to others around me that will draw them to Jesus so they will be "added to the Lord."
Today's Thought: My shadow will fall on many people today.
Have an attractive day. Love you.
Acts 5:14-15
Multitudes from the surrounding cities (vs. 16) gathered to the apostles as they met in Solomon's Porch (vs. 12). They were attracted like bees to flowers because of the blessing. Everyone leaves a shadow that touches other peoples' lives. That shadow can be positive or negative – blessing or cursing. That shadow can attract people who want to be near, or repel people who want to avoid it. I want my shadow to be a blessing to others around me that will draw them to Jesus so they will be "added to the Lord."
Today's Thought: My shadow will fall on many people today.
Have an attractive day. Love you.
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Dad's Ramblings -- Fearing God
"Then Ananias, hearing these words, fell down and breathed his last. So great fear came upon all those who heard these things. And the young men arose and wrapped him up, and carried him out, and buried him....So great fear came upon all the church and upon all who heard these things."
Acts 5:5-6, 11
To see immediate judgment for sin would certain get my attention. The average person – pagan or Christian – does not consider that God is holy and does not brook sin. They imagine a grandfather who winks at unrighteousness. They think as long as no one knows, they can get by with hidden sin. But Ananias and Sapphira found out that you can't arrogantly "tempt the Spirit of the Lord" (vs. 9). God is not mocked. He will have the last word. The fear of the Lord will keep a person humble before a holy God.
Today's Thought: Being convinced that God does not tolerate sin will produce holiness in people.
Have a holy day. Love you.
Acts 5:5-6, 11
To see immediate judgment for sin would certain get my attention. The average person – pagan or Christian – does not consider that God is holy and does not brook sin. They imagine a grandfather who winks at unrighteousness. They think as long as no one knows, they can get by with hidden sin. But Ananias and Sapphira found out that you can't arrogantly "tempt the Spirit of the Lord" (vs. 9). God is not mocked. He will have the last word. The fear of the Lord will keep a person humble before a holy God.
Today's Thought: Being convinced that God does not tolerate sin will produce holiness in people.
Have a holy day. Love you.
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Dad's Ramblings -- Lying To The Holy Spirit
"But Peter said, 'Ananias, why has Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit and keep back part of the price of the land for yourselves? While it remained, was it not your own? And after it was sold, was it not under your control? Why have you conceived this thing in your heart? You have not lied to men but to God.' "
Acts 5:3-4
What does it mean to "lie to the Holy Spirit?" The issue was not how much of the money they gave, but their plot to deceive. They knew in their heart that what they were planning to do was wrong, but they over-ruled the conviction of the Holy Spirit who "convicts the world of sin" and proceeded with their own plan. Their deception to man was not the problem; it was rejecting the promptings of the Holy Spirit in their hearts, and carrying through with their plot. "He who covers his sin will not prosper, but whoever confesses and forsakes them will have mercy" (Proverbs 28:13). Trying to hide things from God is futile; He knows everything.
Today's Thought: Rejecting God's promptings is foolish.
Have a merciful day. Love you.
Acts 5:3-4
What does it mean to "lie to the Holy Spirit?" The issue was not how much of the money they gave, but their plot to deceive. They knew in their heart that what they were planning to do was wrong, but they over-ruled the conviction of the Holy Spirit who "convicts the world of sin" and proceeded with their own plan. Their deception to man was not the problem; it was rejecting the promptings of the Holy Spirit in their hearts, and carrying through with their plot. "He who covers his sin will not prosper, but whoever confesses and forsakes them will have mercy" (Proverbs 28:13). Trying to hide things from God is futile; He knows everything.
Today's Thought: Rejecting God's promptings is foolish.
Have a merciful day. Love you.
Monday, January 24, 2011
Dad's Rambling -- Keeping Up With The Joneses
"And Joses, who was also named Barnabas...having land, sold it, and brought the money and laid it at the apostles' feet. But a certain man named Ananias, with Sapphira his wife, sold a possession. And he kept back part of the proceeds, his wife also being aware of it, and brought a certain portion of it and laid it at the apostles' feet."
Acts 4:36-37; 5:1-2
Some people feel they have to "keep up with the Joneses." In this case, Ananias was trying to keep up with Joses. Perhaps Ananias heard the people whispering to each other, "Did you see what a wonderful thing Barnabas did?" He couldn't stand to be outdone, so he copied Barnabas. The difference was the heart of the matter. Barnabas was giving out of a pure motive in response to his heart, but Ananias was only trying to make a show, exaggerating his gift to make him look good. It is wrong to copy someone else's ministry if the motivation is wrong.
Today's Thought: Motive in ministry is important, whether giving or preaching.
Have a pure day. Love you.
Acts 4:36-37; 5:1-2
Some people feel they have to "keep up with the Joneses." In this case, Ananias was trying to keep up with Joses. Perhaps Ananias heard the people whispering to each other, "Did you see what a wonderful thing Barnabas did?" He couldn't stand to be outdone, so he copied Barnabas. The difference was the heart of the matter. Barnabas was giving out of a pure motive in response to his heart, but Ananias was only trying to make a show, exaggerating his gift to make him look good. It is wrong to copy someone else's ministry if the motivation is wrong.
Today's Thought: Motive in ministry is important, whether giving or preaching.
Have a pure day. Love you.
Friday, January 21, 2011
Dad's Ramblings -- Mi Casa Es Su Casa
"Now the multitude of those who believed were of one heart and one soul; neither did anyone say that things he possessed was his own, but they had all things in common....Nor was there anyone among them who lacked; for all who were possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the proceeds of the things that were sold and laid them at the apostles feet; and they distributed to each as anyone had need."
Acts 4:32, 34-35
"Mi casa es su casa," says the Spanish adage. "My house is your house." Christians in the 21st century do not have that mindset – that what we possess is given to us to bless Christ and other people. We live such private lives that we don't have enough interaction to even realize when our fellow-believers are in need, and too much pride to admit when we do have needs. To have "one mind and one soul" is to share our lives – both the good and the bad – so we can carry the burdens together.
Today's Thought: Christians are called to share both their blessings and their needs.
Have a sharing day. Love you.
Acts 4:32, 34-35
"Mi casa es su casa," says the Spanish adage. "My house is your house." Christians in the 21st century do not have that mindset – that what we possess is given to us to bless Christ and other people. We live such private lives that we don't have enough interaction to even realize when our fellow-believers are in need, and too much pride to admit when we do have needs. To have "one mind and one soul" is to share our lives – both the good and the bad – so we can carry the burdens together.
Today's Thought: Christians are called to share both their blessings and their needs.
Have a sharing day. Love you.
Thursday, January 20, 2011
Dad's Ramblings -- The Antis
"And when they had prayed, the place where they were assembled together was shaken, and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and they spoke the word of God with boldness."
Acts 4:31
With the assurance they received from God that He was with them (the shaking and the filling), they continued to proclaim God's word. They didn't preach against the Jews or use their platform to defend themselves. They simply preached the Word. It seems a lot of what I have heard through the years is "anti" something. When I was a kid, it was anti-communism; then it was anti-discrimination; then anti-war; then anti-abortion. Today it is anti-Obama. There may be validity in all of these causes, but "antis" come and go, but the Word of God remains forever.
Today's Thought: God's Word should be the focus of all preaching.
Have a pro-God's Word day. Love you.
Acts 4:31
With the assurance they received from God that He was with them (the shaking and the filling), they continued to proclaim God's word. They didn't preach against the Jews or use their platform to defend themselves. They simply preached the Word. It seems a lot of what I have heard through the years is "anti" something. When I was a kid, it was anti-communism; then it was anti-discrimination; then anti-war; then anti-abortion. Today it is anti-Obama. There may be validity in all of these causes, but "antis" come and go, but the Word of God remains forever.
Today's Thought: God's Word should be the focus of all preaching.
Have a pro-God's Word day. Love you.
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Dad's Rambling -- Intimidation
" 'Now, Lord, look on their threats, and grant to Your servants that with all boldness they may speak Your word.' "
Acts 4:29
Implicit in the prayer for boldness is the fear and intimidation the disciples must have felt from the "severe" threats (vs. 17) of the Jewish leaders. We don't know what the threats were, but surely they must have involved beating or death to be "severe." As they faced their fear, they turned to God for boldness and strength to speak the truth of the Gospel. We all face those feelings of fear and intimidation – whether it is from a boss and fear of losing a job, or fear of offending someone, or fear of looking like a fool. May God grant strength and boldness to stand for the truth.
Today's Thought: God's boldness can give strength to face intimidation.
Have a bold day. Love you.
Acts 4:29
Implicit in the prayer for boldness is the fear and intimidation the disciples must have felt from the "severe" threats (vs. 17) of the Jewish leaders. We don't know what the threats were, but surely they must have involved beating or death to be "severe." As they faced their fear, they turned to God for boldness and strength to speak the truth of the Gospel. We all face those feelings of fear and intimidation – whether it is from a boss and fear of losing a job, or fear of offending someone, or fear of looking like a fool. May God grant strength and boldness to stand for the truth.
Today's Thought: God's boldness can give strength to face intimidation.
Have a bold day. Love you.
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Dad's Ramblings -- In His Hand
"And being let go, they went to their own companions and reported all that the chief priests and elders had said to them. So when they heard that, they raised their voices to God with one accord, and said: 'Lord, You are God, Who made heaven and earth and sea, and all that is in them....For truly against Your holy Servant Jesus whom You anointed, both Herod and Pontius Pilate, with the Gentiles and the people of Israel, were gathered together to do whatever Your hand and Your purpose determined before to be done.' "
Acts 4:23-24, 27-28
Even in the negative times, God is in control. The passion of Jesus did not happen by chance. It was according to God's purpose. The Creator of heaven and earth has a plan and a purpose. He is not unmindful of our circumstances, and they are in His hand.
Today's Thought: God the Creator is in charge, and He allows evil to happen in order to accomplish His plan.
Have a trusting day. Love you.
Acts 4:23-24, 27-28
Even in the negative times, God is in control. The passion of Jesus did not happen by chance. It was according to God's purpose. The Creator of heaven and earth has a plan and a purpose. He is not unmindful of our circumstances, and they are in His hand.
Today's Thought: God the Creator is in charge, and He allows evil to happen in order to accomplish His plan.
Have a trusting day. Love you.
Monday, January 17, 2011
Dad's Ramblings -- Simple Faith
"So when they had further threatened them, they let them go, finding no way to punish them, because of the people, since they all glorified God for what had been done."
Acts 4:21
What was the difference between these two groups – the Jewish leaders and the common people in the street? Why did one group reject God's work while the other rejoiced and gave praise to God? Perhaps it was education. The Jewish leaders were trained in "religion." Because they knew all about God, they were suspicious of anything that did not fit their intellectual format. I believe in education, but Bible school and seminary can kill a person's awe of God. The intellect becomes so strong that there is no room for the spirit to rejoice in God's presence and miracles. May my Bible knowledge never crowd out my own awe of God and praise for His work.
Today's Thought: Simple faith is better than an over-educated mind.
Have a simple day. Love you.
Acts 4:21
What was the difference between these two groups – the Jewish leaders and the common people in the street? Why did one group reject God's work while the other rejoiced and gave praise to God? Perhaps it was education. The Jewish leaders were trained in "religion." Because they knew all about God, they were suspicious of anything that did not fit their intellectual format. I believe in education, but Bible school and seminary can kill a person's awe of God. The intellect becomes so strong that there is no room for the spirit to rejoice in God's presence and miracles. May my Bible knowledge never crowd out my own awe of God and praise for His work.
Today's Thought: Simple faith is better than an over-educated mind.
Have a simple day. Love you.
Friday, January 14, 2011
Dad's Ramblings -- Civil Disobedience
"So they called them and commanded them not to speak at all nor teach in the name of Jesus. But Peter and John answered and said to them, 'Whether it is right in the sight of God to listen to you more than to God, you judge. For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard.' "
Acts 4:18-20
What does a person do when the people in authority – either on the job or in government – deny under threat of punishment the freedom to talk about Jesus? Would I be willing to disobey and take the consequences? Perhaps Peter and John remembered what Jesus said: "Whatever you hear in the ear, preach on the housetops. And do not fear those who can kill the body but cannot kill the soul" (Matthew 10:27-28). I would hope that I would be like the three Hebrews who stood for their convictions even though it meant being thrown into a fiery furnace.
Today's Thought: Standing for my convictions sometimes requires civil disobedience.
Have a "faithful to your convictions" day. Love you.
Acts 4:18-20
What does a person do when the people in authority – either on the job or in government – deny under threat of punishment the freedom to talk about Jesus? Would I be willing to disobey and take the consequences? Perhaps Peter and John remembered what Jesus said: "Whatever you hear in the ear, preach on the housetops. And do not fear those who can kill the body but cannot kill the soul" (Matthew 10:27-28). I would hope that I would be like the three Hebrews who stood for their convictions even though it meant being thrown into a fiery furnace.
Today's Thought: Standing for my convictions sometimes requires civil disobedience.
Have a "faithful to your convictions" day. Love you.
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Dad's Ramblings -- Intransigent Disbelief
"But when they [the Jewish leaders] had commanded them [Peter and John] to go aside out of the council, they conferred among themselves, saying, 'What shall we do with these men? For, indeed, that a notable deed has been done through them is evident to all who dwell in Jerusalem, and we cannot deny it.' "
Acts 4:15-16
People who choose to disbelieve will refuse to accept the truth even when confronted with irrefutable evidence. It is like the evolutionist who denies the Creator even when the evidence of natural law speaks against evolution – that energy cannot be created nor destroyed, and that nothing can generate from a vacuum (nothing comes from nothing). Intransigent disbelief will not be swayed by what is clearly evident.
Today's Thought: Disbelief will not accept truth even when faced with the evidence.
Have a believing day. Love you.
Acts 4:15-16
People who choose to disbelieve will refuse to accept the truth even when confronted with irrefutable evidence. It is like the evolutionist who denies the Creator even when the evidence of natural law speaks against evolution – that energy cannot be created nor destroyed, and that nothing can generate from a vacuum (nothing comes from nothing). Intransigent disbelief will not be swayed by what is clearly evident.
Today's Thought: Disbelief will not accept truth even when faced with the evidence.
Have a believing day. Love you.
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Dad's Ramblings -- In The Presence of Jesus
"Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated and untrained men, they marveled. And they realized they had been with Jesus."
Acts 4:13
Peter and John certainly were not ignorant. Peter's sermons shows that they knew the Scriptures. They just had not attended the Pharisees' Bible school. I don't think this is an argument against education and training for ministry. Preparation is important, and they had had three years of training as they walked the dusty roads with Jesus. Education does not take the place of the empowerment of the Holy Spirit and being in Jesus' presence. Oh, that my life would demonstrate that I have "been with Jesus."
Today's Thought: Bible school and seminary does not take the place of being with Jesus.
Have a good day with Jesus. Love you.
Acts 4:13
Peter and John certainly were not ignorant. Peter's sermons shows that they knew the Scriptures. They just had not attended the Pharisees' Bible school. I don't think this is an argument against education and training for ministry. Preparation is important, and they had had three years of training as they walked the dusty roads with Jesus. Education does not take the place of the empowerment of the Holy Spirit and being in Jesus' presence. Oh, that my life would demonstrate that I have "been with Jesus."
Today's Thought: Bible school and seminary does not take the place of being with Jesus.
Have a good day with Jesus. Love you.
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Dad's Ramblings -- Exclusive Faith
" 'Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.' "
Acts 4:12
The Jewish rulers brought Peter and John and asked them what authority or power they had when they spoke healing to the lame man. Peter answered that it was in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth – the very one they had crucified – that this good work was done. Then Peter went on to declare the exclusiveness of the Gospel – that there is no other way to salvation except through the name of Jesus. Jesus Himself had said that the way to life was narrow and that few would find it (Matthew 7:14), and that there was no other way to the Father except through Him (John 14:6). Satan has deluded people into believing that there are many paths to God – good works, religion, and universalism. Either Jesus is right or Satan is right. I choose to believe Jesus. The Gospel is Exclusive.
Today's Thought: There is only one way to be saved, and that is through faith in Jesus Christ.
Have a believing day. Love you.
Acts 4:12
The Jewish rulers brought Peter and John and asked them what authority or power they had when they spoke healing to the lame man. Peter answered that it was in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth – the very one they had crucified – that this good work was done. Then Peter went on to declare the exclusiveness of the Gospel – that there is no other way to salvation except through the name of Jesus. Jesus Himself had said that the way to life was narrow and that few would find it (Matthew 7:14), and that there was no other way to the Father except through Him (John 14:6). Satan has deluded people into believing that there are many paths to God – good works, religion, and universalism. Either Jesus is right or Satan is right. I choose to believe Jesus. The Gospel is Exclusive.
Today's Thought: There is only one way to be saved, and that is through faith in Jesus Christ.
Have a believing day. Love you.
Monday, January 10, 2011
Dad's Ramblings -- Disturbed
"Now as they spoke to the people, the priests, the captain of the temple, and the Sadducees came upon them, being greatly disturbed that they taught the people and preached in Jesus the resurrection from the dead."
Acts 4:1-2
Why would the religious leaders be so "disturbed" by the Apostles' teaching? I see two reasons: 1) their position as teachers was being threatened, and 2) their long-held beliefs were threatened. One would think that the religious leaders who knew the Scriptures and knew that the Resurrection was true would be the first to embrace the Messiah. Even today there are Bible teachers who are disturbed by the Baptism in the Holy Spirit with the evidence of speaking in tongues even though it is clearly taught in Scripture. Perhaps they feel a threat to their positions or to their long-held theology that they have believed for many years. I need to be careful that I don't reject what God is doing simply because it doesn't fit into MY frame of reference, as long as it has a Scriptural basis.
Today's Thought: Some people are disturbed by God's work simply because they it threatens their positions as teachers or their long-
held cherished beliefs.
Have an open day to God's work. Love you.
Acts 4:1-2
Why would the religious leaders be so "disturbed" by the Apostles' teaching? I see two reasons: 1) their position as teachers was being threatened, and 2) their long-held beliefs were threatened. One would think that the religious leaders who knew the Scriptures and knew that the Resurrection was true would be the first to embrace the Messiah. Even today there are Bible teachers who are disturbed by the Baptism in the Holy Spirit with the evidence of speaking in tongues even though it is clearly taught in Scripture. Perhaps they feel a threat to their positions or to their long-held theology that they have believed for many years. I need to be careful that I don't reject what God is doing simply because it doesn't fit into MY frame of reference, as long as it has a Scriptural basis.
Today's Thought: Some people are disturbed by God's work simply because they it threatens their positions as teachers or their long-
held cherished beliefs.
Have an open day to God's work. Love you.
Friday, January 7, 2011
Dad's Ramblings -- The Blessings of Jesus
" 'You are sons of the prophets, and of the covenant which God made with our fathers, saying to Abraham, "And in your seed all the families of the earth shall be blessed." To you first, God, having raised up His Servant Jesus, sent Him to bless you, in turning away everyone of you from your iniquities.' "
Acts 3:25-26
Jesus came to bless the world. But even though He went about doing good and healing people, the Jews wanted to do away with Him. Why do people today want to eliminate Jesus from our society when He through His followers has brought such great blessing? How many hospitals have been started by Buddhists? How has Hinduism raised the living standard in India? How has Communism brought freedom to people in nations under its control? Only Christ and His followers have truly blessed the world. And when I think of my own life compared to non-Christ followers, I see how much I have been and am blessed. So why do people want to get rid of Jesus?
Today's Thought: Jesus came to bless the world and people in particular.
Have a blessed day. Love you.
Acts 3:25-26
Jesus came to bless the world. But even though He went about doing good and healing people, the Jews wanted to do away with Him. Why do people today want to eliminate Jesus from our society when He through His followers has brought such great blessing? How many hospitals have been started by Buddhists? How has Hinduism raised the living standard in India? How has Communism brought freedom to people in nations under its control? Only Christ and His followers have truly blessed the world. And when I think of my own life compared to non-Christ followers, I see how much I have been and am blessed. So why do people want to get rid of Jesus?
Today's Thought: Jesus came to bless the world and people in particular.
Have a blessed day. Love you.
Thursday, January 6, 2011
Dad's Ramblings -- Ignorance is Not An Excuse
" 'Yet now, brethren, I know that you did it in ignorance, as did also your rulers. But those things which God foretold by the mouth of all His prophets, that the Christ would suffer, He has fulfilled. Repent therefore and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, so that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord.' "
Acts 3:17-19
Ignorance is no excuse. Just because I do not know that what I have done is wrong does not absolve me of guilt. It would be like me telling the policeman that I did not know the speed limit was 25 when was doing 40. I will still receive a ticket. The fact that I do not know that I was wrong does not mean that I am not culpable. That's why daily confession and repentance are so important (I John 1:8-10). When I know I am cleansed from sin, I can rest in the refreshing of His presence without guilt. I am so thankful for the grace of God that forgives my sins – of omission and commission – when I repent.
Today's Thought: Ignorance is not bliss nor is it an excuse.
Have a refreshing day. Love you.
Acts 3:17-19
Ignorance is no excuse. Just because I do not know that what I have done is wrong does not absolve me of guilt. It would be like me telling the policeman that I did not know the speed limit was 25 when was doing 40. I will still receive a ticket. The fact that I do not know that I was wrong does not mean that I am not culpable. That's why daily confession and repentance are so important (I John 1:8-10). When I know I am cleansed from sin, I can rest in the refreshing of His presence without guilt. I am so thankful for the grace of God that forgives my sins – of omission and commission – when I repent.
Today's Thought: Ignorance is not bliss nor is it an excuse.
Have a refreshing day. Love you.
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
Dad's Rambling -- In and Through Faith
" 'And His name, through faith in His name, has made this man strong, whom you see and know. Yes, the faith which comes through Him has given him this perfect soundness in the presence of you all.' "
Acts 3:16
What does it mean to have "faith in His name?" It is not some magical chant – like abracadabra. It is a declaration of faith in HIM, that He, the Savior/Healer, is able to do what we have faith for. Peter is practicing what Jesus had told the disciples just a few weeks prior: "Most assuredly, I say to you, he who believes in Me, the works that I do he will do also; and greater works than these he will do because I go to My Father. And whatever you ask in My name, that I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If you ask anything in My name, I will do it" (John 14:12-14). When we act in faith in and through His name, we are becoming His representatives here on earth. What awesome possibilities, and what awesome responsibility, lay before the person who will move in faith.
Today's Thought: Faith IN and THROUGH the Lord Jesus is the path to miracles.
Have an in and through day. Love you.
Acts 3:16
What does it mean to have "faith in His name?" It is not some magical chant – like abracadabra. It is a declaration of faith in HIM, that He, the Savior/Healer, is able to do what we have faith for. Peter is practicing what Jesus had told the disciples just a few weeks prior: "Most assuredly, I say to you, he who believes in Me, the works that I do he will do also; and greater works than these he will do because I go to My Father. And whatever you ask in My name, that I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If you ask anything in My name, I will do it" (John 14:12-14). When we act in faith in and through His name, we are becoming His representatives here on earth. What awesome possibilities, and what awesome responsibility, lay before the person who will move in faith.
Today's Thought: Faith IN and THROUGH the Lord Jesus is the path to miracles.
Have an in and through day. Love you.
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
Dad's Ramblings -- Precious Name
" 'The God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, the God of our fathers, glorified His Servant Jesus, Whom you delivered up and denied in the presence of Pilate, when he was determined to let Him go. But you denied the Holy One and the Just, and asked for a murdered to be granted to you, and killed the Prince of Life whom God raised from the dead, of which we are all witnesses.' "
Acts 3:13-15
Could we ever run out of names to describe the Lord Jesus? In Isaiah He is called Wonderful, Counselor, the Mighty God, the Everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace. Peter added a few more – Servant, Holy One, the Just, the Prince (or Originator) of Life. Precious Name, Oh how sweet; Hope of earth and joy of heaven. What wonderful names for our Savior!
Today's Thought: It takes a lot of names to describe the glory of our Lord Jesus.
Have a rejoicing day. Love you.
Acts 3:13-15
Could we ever run out of names to describe the Lord Jesus? In Isaiah He is called Wonderful, Counselor, the Mighty God, the Everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace. Peter added a few more – Servant, Holy One, the Just, the Prince (or Originator) of Life. Precious Name, Oh how sweet; Hope of earth and joy of heaven. What wonderful names for our Savior!
Today's Thought: It takes a lot of names to describe the glory of our Lord Jesus.
Have a rejoicing day. Love you.
Monday, January 3, 2011
"But this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel: 'And it shall come to pass in the last days, says God, that I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh; Your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your young men shall see visions, your old men shall dream dreams. And on My menservants and on My maidservants I will pour out My Spirit in those days; and they shall prophesy.' "
Acts 2:16-18
God said He would pour out His Spirit on all flesh, male and female regardless of age – not just the apostles or early Christians. I include myself in that "all," and I long for the visions and dreams. Lord, pour out your Spirit on me again.
Today's Thought: Pentecost is for everyone regardless of age, sex, or time in history.
..............................
" ' "And it shall come to pass that whoever calls on the name of the LORD shall be saved." Men of Israel, hear these words: Jesus of Nazareth, a Man attested by God to you by miracles, wonders, and signs which God did through Him in your midst, as you yourselves know – .... This Jesus God has raised up, of which we are all witnesses.' "
Acts 2:21-22, 32
Peter soon turned the focus from the experience of the wind, fire, and tongues to Jesus – His life, death and resurrection (vss. 23-31). Some people become so enamored by the gift that they ignore the Giver. The person who truly desires the Baptism of the Holy Spirit should make Jesus the focus – in worship, praise, and love – instead of speaking in tongues. They Holy Spirit will exalt Jesus. I think of all the times I have witnessed people being Spirit-baptized, it has been in times of praise, either in church or in personal devotions.
Today's Thought: The focus of Pentecost is Jesus – not speaking in tongues.
...............................
"Now when they heard this, they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, 'Men and brethren, what shall we do?' "
Acts 2:37
The first step in the process of salvation is conviction – being cut to the heart. When the people heard Peter proclaim the "new" story of Jesus' life, death, resurrection, and ascension to heaven – according to the Old Testament prophecies, they were pricked in their hearts. They themselves had been eye-witnesses (vs. 22), and had been party to his death on the cross (vs. 23). So they knew what Peter said was true. Conviction brings us to the point where we say, "What must I do?" This conviction comes from the Holy Spirit who reproves of sin, righteousness, and judgment (John 16:8). Then they responded to this conviction.
Today's Thought: Conviction causes us to say, "What must I do?"
......................................
"Then Peter said to them, 'Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. For the promise is to you and to your children, and to all who are afar off, as man as the Lord our God will call.' "
Acts 2:38-39
This is the normal order: conviction (vs. 37), repentance, water baptism, and Holy Spirit baptism. Although God is not bound to this order, it is the norm. To pick and choose and say, "Lord, I want this but not that," would be like a child rejecting some of his Christmas gifts. God offers to everyone His gifts – Salvation and Spirit Baptism. Some people accept the gift of salvation but reject the gift of the Holy Spirit. These gifts are for everyone – me and my children – because God calls everyone to receive His gifts. I want everything He wants to give me out of His rich treasures.
Today's Thought: The gift of Spirit Baptism is a part of God's normal process after Salvation.
.......................................
"And with many other words he testified and exhorted them, saying, 'Be saved from this perverse generation.' Then those who gladly received his word were baptized; and that day about three thousand souls were added to them."
Acts 2:40-41
The message remains the same 2,000 years later: "Save yourselves from this perverse generation." What does "perverse" mean? It means to be crooked – out of alignment with God and His way. The world is out of sinc with God's way – it is all messed up. When a person accepts Christ, His "straightness" does not fit with the crooked culture. The mark of separation from the perverse generation is water baptism, indicating a turning from the crooked way to follow Christ.
Today's Thought: Following Christ is a rejection of this perverse and crooked generation.
.......................................
"And they continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, the breaking of bread, and in prayers.....So continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they ate their food with gladness and simplicity of heart..."
Acts 2:42, 46
True Believers have a desire to be a part of the fellowship of other believers. The community of faith where they learn doctrine, pray and commune with God, observe the ordinance of the Lord's Supper, and have time with each other is a normal part of being a Christian. The person who does not desire being with other Christians will probably not be strong in his faith.
Today's Thought: A desire to be with other believers is a normal result of Salvation.
........................................
"Then fear came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were done through the apostles."
Acts 2:43
The witness of God at work in their midst cause a response in peoples' hearts – fear. Although I am convinced that miracles alone do bring conviction nor cause people to repent, they certainly can be a vehicle to draw people to God. The miracles were validators or the apostles' message. And even today they continue to convince people that the Gospel message is true and God is present.
Today's Thought: Miracles are validation of the message and God's presence.
...........................................
"Now all who believed were together, and had all things in common, and sold their possessions and goods, and divided them among all, as anyone had need..... Nor was there anyone among them who lacked; for all who were possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the proceeds of the things that were sold, and laid them at the apostles' feel; and they distributed to each one as anyone had need."
Acts 2:44-45; 4:34-35
Some have called this communism. But communal living is not communism. Communism is anti-god and is not voluntary. Communalism was a natural response of the early believers in order to be a group. But communal living does not work practically. Human nature being what it is, there will always be those who are deceitful (chapter 5) and discontent leading to arguments (chapter 6). Communalism sounds good but is impractical on a daily level.
Today's Thought: The early believers practiced communalism, not communism.
............................................
"And the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved."
Acts 2:47b
Jesus was building His Church, just as He said He would. And He still is. People are daily coming to faith and being added to His Church. Building His Church is not my job. My responsibility is to be a faithful witness. Then He does the work of building His Church.
Today's Thought: The Lord builds the Church – not us.
....................................................
"Now Peter and John went up together into the temple at the hour of prayer, being the ninth hour."
Acts 3:1
Jesus had his prayer times early in the morning. For Peter and John, the prayer time was 3:00 in the afternoon. The hour of prayer was not prescribe in the Law, and we are not under obligation. Yet having a designated time to seek God is a good and helpful practice as a part of the pattern of daily life. We do other thing by schedule – working, eating, going to bed, brushing our teeth. So having a pattern of daily prayer is not an unnatural thing. The Psalmist had his times of seeking God – "Early" (Psalm 63:1), in the night (Psalm 63:8), "evening, and morning and at noon I will pray (Psalm 55:17). It may not be the same for everyone, so the question is not the "when" but the consistency. "When You said, 'Seek My face,' my heart said to You, 'Your face, LORD, I will seek' " (Psalm 27:8).
Today's Thought: The habit of prayer is Scriptural.
............................
"And a certain man lame from his mother's womb was carried, whom they laid daily at the gate of the temple which is called Beautiful, to ask alms of them that entered into the temple."
Acts 3:2
I wonder how many times Jesus passed by this lame man as He went into the temple. Since the man was carried there daily, I assume Jesus had gone by him many times. Yet even though He had many opportunities, Jesus did not stop and heal him. Perhaps He left this lame man just so the disciples could experience the thrill of ministry. Indeed, Jesus could take care of all the problems in the world, but He allows us to be a part of the miracles. Lord Jesus, I want to be a part of Your miracles today.
Today's Thought: God allows us to participate in His miracles.
.....................................
"[A certain lame man] who, seeing Peter and John about to go into the temple, asked for alms. And fixing his eyes on him, with John, Peter said, 'Look at us.' So he gave them his attention, expecting to receive something from them."
Acts 3:3-5
In asking for alms, the man was expressing a felt need – for money. But he had a deeper need – healing. Peter did not give him what he wanted, which would not have changed his life, but instead ministered in a way that would impact his life forever. People around me daily present felt needs – whether for money, emotional support, or validation. How do I respond to them? Do I just meet their felt need, or do I give them something greater that will change their lives? If I only meet their felt need, they will remain a beggar tomorrow. All humanitarian programs will leave people in their needy state if their lives are not changed. What they need is new life.
Today's Thought: Beggars will remain beggars unless their lives are changed.
...................................
"Then Peter said, 'Silver and gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you: IN the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk.' "
Acts 3:6
My resources are limited. I certainly don't have enough to meet all the needs I encounter. But I can give people Jesus. He can meet any need. I want to be like Peter, to boldly proclaim Jesus as the meeter of needs.
Today's Thought: My resources are limited; Jesus' resources are unlimited.
..................................
"And he [Peter] took him by the right hand and lifted him up, and immediately his feet and ankle bones received strength. So he, leaping up, stood and walked and entered the temple with them – walking, leaping, and praising God. And all the people saw him walking and praising God."
Acts 3:7-9
It must have been a sight – this wild man jumping around and yelling at the top of his voice, "I'm healed!!!" He was not embarrassed nor ashamed to show public demonstration of what God had done for him. He had been lifted, healed, and his life changed by the goodness of God. He did not care what other people thought. So why am I so reticent to give public praise to God when Jesus has done so much for me? Am I afraid people will think I am crazy? So, why do I care what people think?
Today's Thought: The touch of God will cause a response.
...............................
"Now as the lame man who was healed held on to Peter and John, all the people ran together to them in the porch which is call Solomon's, greatly amazed. So when Peter saw it, he responded to the people: 'Men of Israel, why do you marvel at this? Or why look so intently at us, as though by our own power or godliness we had made this man walk?' "
Acts 3:11-12
Peter was quick to deflect glory from himself to God. God alone deserves praise for any good thing that comes out of my ministry.
Today's Thought: To God be the glory!!
Acts 2:16-18
God said He would pour out His Spirit on all flesh, male and female regardless of age – not just the apostles or early Christians. I include myself in that "all," and I long for the visions and dreams. Lord, pour out your Spirit on me again.
Today's Thought: Pentecost is for everyone regardless of age, sex, or time in history.
..............................
" ' "And it shall come to pass that whoever calls on the name of the LORD shall be saved." Men of Israel, hear these words: Jesus of Nazareth, a Man attested by God to you by miracles, wonders, and signs which God did through Him in your midst, as you yourselves know – .... This Jesus God has raised up, of which we are all witnesses.' "
Acts 2:21-22, 32
Peter soon turned the focus from the experience of the wind, fire, and tongues to Jesus – His life, death and resurrection (vss. 23-31). Some people become so enamored by the gift that they ignore the Giver. The person who truly desires the Baptism of the Holy Spirit should make Jesus the focus – in worship, praise, and love – instead of speaking in tongues. They Holy Spirit will exalt Jesus. I think of all the times I have witnessed people being Spirit-baptized, it has been in times of praise, either in church or in personal devotions.
Today's Thought: The focus of Pentecost is Jesus – not speaking in tongues.
...............................
"Now when they heard this, they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, 'Men and brethren, what shall we do?' "
Acts 2:37
The first step in the process of salvation is conviction – being cut to the heart. When the people heard Peter proclaim the "new" story of Jesus' life, death, resurrection, and ascension to heaven – according to the Old Testament prophecies, they were pricked in their hearts. They themselves had been eye-witnesses (vs. 22), and had been party to his death on the cross (vs. 23). So they knew what Peter said was true. Conviction brings us to the point where we say, "What must I do?" This conviction comes from the Holy Spirit who reproves of sin, righteousness, and judgment (John 16:8). Then they responded to this conviction.
Today's Thought: Conviction causes us to say, "What must I do?"
......................................
"Then Peter said to them, 'Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. For the promise is to you and to your children, and to all who are afar off, as man as the Lord our God will call.' "
Acts 2:38-39
This is the normal order: conviction (vs. 37), repentance, water baptism, and Holy Spirit baptism. Although God is not bound to this order, it is the norm. To pick and choose and say, "Lord, I want this but not that," would be like a child rejecting some of his Christmas gifts. God offers to everyone His gifts – Salvation and Spirit Baptism. Some people accept the gift of salvation but reject the gift of the Holy Spirit. These gifts are for everyone – me and my children – because God calls everyone to receive His gifts. I want everything He wants to give me out of His rich treasures.
Today's Thought: The gift of Spirit Baptism is a part of God's normal process after Salvation.
.......................................
"And with many other words he testified and exhorted them, saying, 'Be saved from this perverse generation.' Then those who gladly received his word were baptized; and that day about three thousand souls were added to them."
Acts 2:40-41
The message remains the same 2,000 years later: "Save yourselves from this perverse generation." What does "perverse" mean? It means to be crooked – out of alignment with God and His way. The world is out of sinc with God's way – it is all messed up. When a person accepts Christ, His "straightness" does not fit with the crooked culture. The mark of separation from the perverse generation is water baptism, indicating a turning from the crooked way to follow Christ.
Today's Thought: Following Christ is a rejection of this perverse and crooked generation.
.......................................
"And they continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, the breaking of bread, and in prayers.....So continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they ate their food with gladness and simplicity of heart..."
Acts 2:42, 46
True Believers have a desire to be a part of the fellowship of other believers. The community of faith where they learn doctrine, pray and commune with God, observe the ordinance of the Lord's Supper, and have time with each other is a normal part of being a Christian. The person who does not desire being with other Christians will probably not be strong in his faith.
Today's Thought: A desire to be with other believers is a normal result of Salvation.
........................................
"Then fear came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were done through the apostles."
Acts 2:43
The witness of God at work in their midst cause a response in peoples' hearts – fear. Although I am convinced that miracles alone do bring conviction nor cause people to repent, they certainly can be a vehicle to draw people to God. The miracles were validators or the apostles' message. And even today they continue to convince people that the Gospel message is true and God is present.
Today's Thought: Miracles are validation of the message and God's presence.
...........................................
"Now all who believed were together, and had all things in common, and sold their possessions and goods, and divided them among all, as anyone had need..... Nor was there anyone among them who lacked; for all who were possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the proceeds of the things that were sold, and laid them at the apostles' feel; and they distributed to each one as anyone had need."
Acts 2:44-45; 4:34-35
Some have called this communism. But communal living is not communism. Communism is anti-god and is not voluntary. Communalism was a natural response of the early believers in order to be a group. But communal living does not work practically. Human nature being what it is, there will always be those who are deceitful (chapter 5) and discontent leading to arguments (chapter 6). Communalism sounds good but is impractical on a daily level.
Today's Thought: The early believers practiced communalism, not communism.
............................................
"And the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved."
Acts 2:47b
Jesus was building His Church, just as He said He would. And He still is. People are daily coming to faith and being added to His Church. Building His Church is not my job. My responsibility is to be a faithful witness. Then He does the work of building His Church.
Today's Thought: The Lord builds the Church – not us.
....................................................
"Now Peter and John went up together into the temple at the hour of prayer, being the ninth hour."
Acts 3:1
Jesus had his prayer times early in the morning. For Peter and John, the prayer time was 3:00 in the afternoon. The hour of prayer was not prescribe in the Law, and we are not under obligation. Yet having a designated time to seek God is a good and helpful practice as a part of the pattern of daily life. We do other thing by schedule – working, eating, going to bed, brushing our teeth. So having a pattern of daily prayer is not an unnatural thing. The Psalmist had his times of seeking God – "Early" (Psalm 63:1), in the night (Psalm 63:8), "evening, and morning and at noon I will pray (Psalm 55:17). It may not be the same for everyone, so the question is not the "when" but the consistency. "When You said, 'Seek My face,' my heart said to You, 'Your face, LORD, I will seek' " (Psalm 27:8).
Today's Thought: The habit of prayer is Scriptural.
............................
"And a certain man lame from his mother's womb was carried, whom they laid daily at the gate of the temple which is called Beautiful, to ask alms of them that entered into the temple."
Acts 3:2
I wonder how many times Jesus passed by this lame man as He went into the temple. Since the man was carried there daily, I assume Jesus had gone by him many times. Yet even though He had many opportunities, Jesus did not stop and heal him. Perhaps He left this lame man just so the disciples could experience the thrill of ministry. Indeed, Jesus could take care of all the problems in the world, but He allows us to be a part of the miracles. Lord Jesus, I want to be a part of Your miracles today.
Today's Thought: God allows us to participate in His miracles.
.....................................
"[A certain lame man] who, seeing Peter and John about to go into the temple, asked for alms. And fixing his eyes on him, with John, Peter said, 'Look at us.' So he gave them his attention, expecting to receive something from them."
Acts 3:3-5
In asking for alms, the man was expressing a felt need – for money. But he had a deeper need – healing. Peter did not give him what he wanted, which would not have changed his life, but instead ministered in a way that would impact his life forever. People around me daily present felt needs – whether for money, emotional support, or validation. How do I respond to them? Do I just meet their felt need, or do I give them something greater that will change their lives? If I only meet their felt need, they will remain a beggar tomorrow. All humanitarian programs will leave people in their needy state if their lives are not changed. What they need is new life.
Today's Thought: Beggars will remain beggars unless their lives are changed.
...................................
"Then Peter said, 'Silver and gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you: IN the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk.' "
Acts 3:6
My resources are limited. I certainly don't have enough to meet all the needs I encounter. But I can give people Jesus. He can meet any need. I want to be like Peter, to boldly proclaim Jesus as the meeter of needs.
Today's Thought: My resources are limited; Jesus' resources are unlimited.
..................................
"And he [Peter] took him by the right hand and lifted him up, and immediately his feet and ankle bones received strength. So he, leaping up, stood and walked and entered the temple with them – walking, leaping, and praising God. And all the people saw him walking and praising God."
Acts 3:7-9
It must have been a sight – this wild man jumping around and yelling at the top of his voice, "I'm healed!!!" He was not embarrassed nor ashamed to show public demonstration of what God had done for him. He had been lifted, healed, and his life changed by the goodness of God. He did not care what other people thought. So why am I so reticent to give public praise to God when Jesus has done so much for me? Am I afraid people will think I am crazy? So, why do I care what people think?
Today's Thought: The touch of God will cause a response.
...............................
"Now as the lame man who was healed held on to Peter and John, all the people ran together to them in the porch which is call Solomon's, greatly amazed. So when Peter saw it, he responded to the people: 'Men of Israel, why do you marvel at this? Or why look so intently at us, as though by our own power or godliness we had made this man walk?' "
Acts 3:11-12
Peter was quick to deflect glory from himself to God. God alone deserves praise for any good thing that comes out of my ministry.
Today's Thought: To God be the glory!!
"So they were all amazed and perplexed, saying to one another, 'Whatever could this mean?' Others mocking said, 'They are full of new wine.'..... But Peter, standing up with the eleven, raised his voice and said to them... 'These are not drunk, as you suppose, since it is only the third hour of the day.' "
Acts 2:12-15
It must have been a sight – a bunch of people drunk in the Spirit, staggering around like drunken people speaking gibberish. This brought scorn and ridicule from some in the crowd. Pentecostals are still subject to ridicule – those holy rollers – by those bystanders who don't believe or don't understand. But God's ways don't often make sense to the crowd.
Today's Thought: The reality of Pentecost may bring mocking by the crowd.
Acts 2:12-15
It must have been a sight – a bunch of people drunk in the Spirit, staggering around like drunken people speaking gibberish. This brought scorn and ridicule from some in the crowd. Pentecostals are still subject to ridicule – those holy rollers – by those bystanders who don't believe or don't understand. But God's ways don't often make sense to the crowd.
Today's Thought: The reality of Pentecost may bring mocking by the crowd.
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