Turning Point

Turning Point; David Jeremiah – The Enemy’s Weapon

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Insomuch then as the children have partaken of flesh and blood, He Himself likewise shared in the same, that through death He might destroy him who had the power of death, that is, the devil.
Hebrews 2:14

Recommended Reading: Hebrews 2:10-18

During World War II, Army paratrooper Manuel Pérez Jr. found himself in combat with enemy soldiers in the Philippines. In the struggle an opposing soldier threw his rifle with its bayonet, knocking Pérez’s own weapon from his hands. Pérez snatched up the enemy’s rifle and used it against the attackers, turning their own weapon into the means of their defeat.

At Calvary, Jesus did the same on a cosmic scale. Satan wielded death as his greatest weapon, but Christ entered death, conquered it, and used it to destroy “him who had the power of death, that is, the devil” (Hebrews 2:14).

Our enemy is still prowling around seeking to attack us (1 Peter 5:8) and to sift us like wheat (Luke 22:31). But God is all-powerful, and the victory is won. While we need to be aware of the devil’s schemes (Ephesians 6:11), we should be filled with confidence that he is defeated and that God will soon crush him under our feet (Romans 16:20).

Satan must be defeated in the arena he dominates, this world. So Christ was sent into this world to destroy Satan’s works.
Charles Ryrie

 

 

 

https://www.davidjeremiah.org

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Our Daily Bread

Our Daily Bread – God’s Unexpected Ways

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“Oh no, my lord!” he cried out. “It was borrowed!” 2 Kings 6:5

Today’s Scripture

2 Kings 6:1-7

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Today’s Devotion

When the Bible that Matt Williams kept in the back of his car was stolen, he feared he’d never see it again, and the precious photos he kept tucked in its case would be lost. So he offered a short prayer: “Lord, it breaks my heart. I got a lot of stuff in there that means a lot to me, and I’d like to get it back. But not my will but yours, like you always say.” Just days later, Williams was stunned to learn that his Bible was found in a stolen car. It had been placed next to a Bible the original car owner kept on her passenger seat. Being reunited with his prized possession seemed impossible, but God answered Williams’ prayer.

In 2 Kings 6:1-7, we read about the prophet Elisha facing a seemingly impossible situation. He and a group of prophets were by the Jordan River getting wood to build a larger meeting place. As one of the prophets cut down a tree, “the iron axhead fell into the water. ‘Oh no, my lord!’ he cried out. ‘It was borrowed!’” (v. 5). The distressed prophet showed the prophet Elisha where it fell. “Elisha cut a stick and threw it there, and made the iron float” (v. 6). The prophet was miraculously reunited with the valuable lost item.

No care or concern is too small to bring before God in prayer. We can pray and ask God for help in any circumstance, and He can answer our prayers in unexpected ways.

Reflect & Pray

When has God answered your prayer in unexpected ways? What can you pray about today?

Dear God, thank You that I can pray about anything.

Today’s Insights

Of the many miracles the prophet Elisha performed, many involved everyday things and ordinary people, demonstrating God’s protection and provision. The miracle of the “iron axhead” (2 Kings 6:5) is one example. The iron ax was an expensive tool. Such a loss would’ve been costly for the prophet, and its restoration saved him from a huge financial debt. We see other examples of God’s care in the miracle of the abundant olive oil, which redeemed a widow’s debts (4:1-7); a young son restored to life (vv. 8-37); the provision of edible stew for hungry prophets (v. 38); and twenty loaves of bread feeding one hundred men (vv. 42-44). God cares about the everyday issues that trouble us. Jesus tells us to “look at the birds of the air . . . [and how your] heavenly Father feeds them” (Matthew 6:26). We can turn our everyday concerns to God knowing that He cares for us (1 Peter 5:7).

For additional reflection, read: How Not to Pray.

 

 

 

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Denison Forum

Denison Forum – What the Bible says about those who haven’t heard the gospel

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This article was original published on eastwest.org.

More than 3 billion people worldwide are considered unreached with the gospel. That means they have little to no chance of ever hearing about Jesus, His sacrifice, and His free gift of salvation.

With tens of thousands of unreached people dying every day, the sobering reality is that scores of people live their entire lives never knowing the truth of the gospel. That leads to an uncomfortable question: What happens to those who haven’t heard the gospel?

Understanding those who never hear the gospel

Some well-intentioned Christ followers have attempted to answer this question by saying that God is so loving that if someone never had the chance to hear the gospel, He would let them into Heaven. The problem is that this answer is not aligned with Scripture.

The book of Romans provides the truth to better respond to this question. First, Scripture says that God has made Himself known to people.

“The wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of people, who suppress the truth by their wickedness, since what may be known about God is plain to them, because God has made it plain to them. For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse.” –Romans 1:18-20

People know God, but their sinful nature suppresses the truth about Him. Instead of worshipping the true God, they worship other things, whether it’s other gods, money, fame, or worldly desires.

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Everyone has sinned

Second, all people have fallen short of God’s perfect standard. Whether they are a member of God’s chosen people or someone born in a remote village, every person has sinned.

“There is no difference between Jew and Gentile, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God … .” –Romans 3:22b-23

“What shall we conclude then? Do we have any advantage? Not at all! For we have already made the charge that Jews and Gentiles alike are all under the power of sin. As it is written: ‘There is no one righteous, not even one; there is no one who understands; there is no one who seeks God. All have turned away, they have together become worthless; there is no one who does good, not even one.’” –Romans 3:9-12

“All who sin apart from the law will also perish apart from the law, and all who sin under the law will be judged by the law.” –Romans 2:12

No one can be saved apart from faith in Jesus

What we deserve for our sin is death—eternal separation from God (Romans 6:23). Because all people know God and have rejected Him and all people have fallen short of God’s perfect standard, no one can be saved apart from faith in Jesus—that includes an unreached person who has never heard the gospel.

Pastor David Platt has summarized his answer to the question of someone never hearing the gospel like this:

“So when people ask what happens to the innocent guy in Africa who dies without ever hearing the gospel, I would say, beyond a shadow of a doubt, he goes to heaven. However, before you begin to label me a heretic, consider: if there is an innocent guy in Africa who has never heard the gospel, then he doesn’t need a Savior. He hasn’t done anything wrong, so why would he be separated from God? But that’s precisely the problem: there is no innocent guy in Africa or Asia. Every one of us has rejected the knowledge of God, so we are not innocent.”

God’s solution for those who never hear the gospel

It would seem cruel for God to condemn someone who never had a chance to know Jesus without some sort of rescue plan. What kind of loving God would do that?

As it turns out, God does have a rescue plan. It’s you.

Jesus commissioned His followers to take the gospel to all nations (Matthew 28:18-20). The reason that there are unreached people—people who have never heard the gospel—is because someone has not gone to them to share the good news.

More than 3 billion people will live their entire lives never knowing who Jesus is unless they are told. God’s solution to that problem is sending out His children to shine His light in the darkest places on Earth. How is God calling you to reach those who have never heard?

“How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can anyone preach unless they are sent? As it is written: ‘How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!’” –Romans 10:14-15

 

 

Denison Forum

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Greg Laurie

Harvest Ministries; Greg Laurie – God Can Use You Right Where You Are

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 Work hard so you can present yourself to God and receive his approval. Be a good worker, one who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly explains the word of truth. 

—2 Timothy 2:15

Scripture:

2 Timothy 2:15 

As believers, we can encourage one another with these words: God can use you right where you are.

Nehemiah was what we would call a layman. I personally don’t like the term, which is used to describe someone who is not “in ministry.” Sometimes we think pastors, missionaries, or people who work for churches are in ministry. But the reality is that every Christian is in ministry.

Look at the apostle Paul’s instruction to Timothy in 2 Timothy 2:15: “Work hard so you can present yourself to God and receive his approval. Be a good worker, one who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly explains the word of truth” (NLT). That kind of faithful service isn’t limited to pastors, missionaries, or church employees.

Christians who work in the corporate world, Christians who work in construction, Christians who work in education, Christians who work in the medical or counseling fields, and so forth are all in ministry. In a sense, ministry is simply service. Ministry occurs when we say, “God, You can use me right where I am. I am available to serve You, and I want my life to bring glory to You.” In other words, ministry happens when believers recognize and respond to opportunities to serve God in their everyday lives.

In the Old Testament, God chose to use Nehemiah through the position he already held. Nehemiah, a Jewish exile, served as the cupbearer to King Artaxerxes, the leader of the Medo-Persians. The cupbearer had to be someone the king could trust, because he spent a lot of time with the king.

Nehemiah’s position gave him access to the king. But despite his privileged position, Nehemiah was concerned about others—specifically, his fellow Jews who had returned to Jerusalem. The walls of Jerusalem were broken down, leaving the people vulnerable to their enemies.

Nehemiah leveraged his position of influence with King Artaxerxes to secure royal support and materials for rebuilding Jerusalem’s broken walls. His vital ministry began as he made himself available to God in the position he already held.

Have you ever considered how God could use you right where you are? Think about the neighborhood you live in, the place where you work, or the campus you’re on. You don’t have to be a pastor or a missionary to make a difference in someone’s life.

You might say, “If I could just change my circumstances . . .” But did it ever occur to you that important ministry opportunities are available to you because you’re in your current circumstances?

Ask God to open your eyes to those opportunities. Ask Him to help you see past the “same old same old.” Ask Him to help you see the unique influence you wield. Ask Him to give you a sense of the people whose lives He can touch through you.

Ask Him to give you a new appreciation for your old surroundings—and a willingness to serve Him right where you are.

Reflection question: What ministry opportunities are available to you right where you are? Discuss this with believers like you on Harvest Discipleship!

 

 

 

Harvest.org | Greg Laurie

Innovative News WEB site – https://newsfeathers.com/ – The news, with a little ruffle

Days of Praise

Days of Praise – The New Covenant

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by John D. Morris, Ph.D.

“Likewise also the cup after supper, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood, which is shed for you.” (Luke 22:20)

The Greek word diatheke, translated as both “testament” and “covenant,” occurs 33 times in the New Testament, 17 of which are in the book of Hebrews. The Hebrew word for “covenant” (berith) comes from a word meaning to “cut, or divide,” referring to the fact that blood had to be shed to bind the parties involved to the covenant (see Jeremiah 34:18–19). God had made covenants with Abraham and Moses on the part of the people of Israel. He kept His part of the agreement, but in each case the others involved “continued not in my covenant” (Hebrews 8:9). But God, in His grace, has issued a new covenant.

This covenant or testament is not unlike a human last will and testament, but there are some differences. He did not merely die, thereby enabling His children to inherit His fortune, but He is now “the mediator of a better covenant” (8:6). He is the sacrifice whose death was necessary to make the covenant binding, and yet He is the “surety of a better testament” (7:22).

He cannot fail, and hence the new covenant cannot be done away with. Through His death, He not only has removed the penalty for our previous failures but also qualified us to receive the inheritance. “For this cause he is the mediator of the new testament, that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions that were under the first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance. For where a testament is, there must also of necessity be the death of the testator” (9:15–16). “Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them” (7:25). JDM

 

 

 

https://www.icr.org/articles/type/6

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Joyce Meyer

Joyce Meyer – Daily Faith for Daily Needs

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Let be and be still, and know (recognize and understand) that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations! I will be exalted in the earth!

Psalm 46:10 (AMPC)

We have the privilege of trusting God daily to meet every need that we have—faith to pay the bills, keep a good job, raise the kids, make marriage work, get along with people, and so on.

Daily faith is vital if we are going to eliminate stress and enjoy life. Faith leaves no room for worry and it drives out fear. Learning to trust God in every situation will help you overcome worry and anxiety.

Daily faith is filled with hopeful expectation, and it never gives up. Each new day is a new opportunity to see God do something amazing. A saying I like is: “When faith goes to the market, it always takes a basket.” Keep your basket handy because God may fill it at any moment.

Prayer of the Day: Father, help me trust You daily with every need. Fill my heart with hopeful expectation, drive out worry and fear, and help me watch for what You will do, amen.

 

 

http://www.joycemeyer.org

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Max Lucado

Max Lucado – Resist Temptation 

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Play

Satan and the Son of God stood on the southeastern wall of the temple, more than a hundred feet above the Kidron Valley, and Satan told Jesus to jump into the arms of God.  Jesus refused.  Not because God wouldn’t catch him. He refused because he didn’t have anything to prove to anyone, much less the devil.

Neither do you. In church of all places, Satan will do with you what he did with Jesus.  He will urge you to do tricks, to impress others with your service, to make a show of your faith, to call attention to your good deeds. Satan loves to turn church assemblies into Las Vegas presentations where people show off their abilities rather than boast in God’s.

Don’t be suckered.  You don’t have anything to prove.

 

 

 

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Today in the Word

Today in the Word – Moody Bible Institute – A Living Legacy

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Read Acts 9:32–43

From time to time, I am asked to do a funeral for a person I did not know. Depending on who made the request, I will decide whether or not I should officiate. My role is always difficult when there is not much information regarding the person’s life, so in those instances, I tend to mention one or two good things I have heard about the deceased. But mainly, I try to comfort the family and share the gospel.

Peter was making his rounds to a number of churches in the region. After healing a gentleman in Lydda, he was summoned to Joppa. In that city, there was a woman named Tabitha (v. 36). Her reputation was outstanding. First, she is referred to as a disciple. This implies that she was a sincere follower of Jesus Christ. Second, Tabitha was “always” doing good. What a wonderful testimony to her character. Assuming that the “always” refers to helping the poor as well, she cared deeply for the less fortunate (v. 36).

Tabitha had become sick and died (v. 37). When Peter arrived, he was taken to an upstairs room where her body had been laid. Several widows stood crying and showed him the robes and other clothing that she had made while she was alive. Peter didn’t have to guess as to what type of person Tabitha was.

Peter sent all of them out of the room, got down on his knees, and prayed. Then he did something surprising. He told the dead woman, “Tabitha, get up” (v. 40). Then she opened her eyes and sat up! Peter presented her to the believers and widows. The Bible says that “this became known all over Joppa, and many people believed in the Lord” (v. 42). Tabitha’s death and life had a profound impact on others.

Go Deeper

What impact do you hope your death will have on others? What would you like people to say about you once you’re gone?

Pray with Us

May we be the type of people who make an impact for You, God! We want to give to others as You have given to us. You are a God of love.

She opens her arms to the poor and extends her hands to the needy.Proverbs 31:20

 

 

 

https://www.moodybible.org/

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Turning Point

Turning Point; David Jeremiah – Two Camps

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So Jacob went on his way, and the angels of God met him. When Jacob saw them, he said, “This is God’s camp.” And he called the name of that place Mahanaim.
Genesis 32:1-2

Recommended Reading: Genesis 32:1-12

We all face moments when we dread what lies ahead—a difficult conversation, an uncertain future, or a problem we cannot solve. Jacob knew exactly how that felt. As he journeyed home with his sizable family, he expected to meet the brother he had wronged years before, a man who now commanded a force of seasoned warriors.

That’s when we find this strange verse in Genesis 32—the angels of God met Jacob. We don’t know anything more about the encounter, but Jacob named the spot Mahanaim, which means “two camps.” He had his frightened clan of earthly pilgrims, but around him was God’s host of angelic helpers. Two camps—one visible and one invisible—were traveling together.

The angels of God are camping around you too. They are God’s messengers who stand ready to direct, strengthen, assist, protect, and encourage you. No matter what you’re facing, ask God to send His host to help you face your trouble.

No human effort can be sufficient…. The source of defense and the means of victory come from God’s ministering angels.
Allen P. Ross

 

 

 

https://www.davidjeremiah.org

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Our Daily Bread

Our Daily Bread – Inspired by Bible Stories

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Early on the first day of the week, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene went to the tomb. John 20:1

Today’s Scripture

John 20:11-18

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Today’s Devotion

While reading a book about World War II, I found the story of the Battle for Hill 609 in Northern Africa, in which my dad was severely wounded. I already knew of the event, but as I read a graphic account of what he had gone through that day, I gained a new understanding of him.

Is this also what can happen when we read about people in the Bible? For instance, we could hear someone say that Mary Magdalene was an example of loyalty to Jesus. But our understanding of her faith grows as we read the story of her dedication to Him on resurrection morning: “Early on the first day of the week, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene went to the tomb” (John 20:1). Next, we sense her pain and sadness as we read of her bewilderment that the stone had been “removed from the entrance.” Finally, we sense the absolute wonder felt when He called her by name: “Jesus said to her, ‘Mary’ ” (v. 16).

Reading true biblical accounts awakens us to the realities of God’s faithfulness. We sense Deborah’s courage (Judges 4-5), Gideon’s bravery (ch. 6), and Paul’s fearlessness (Acts 22) as we immerse ourselves in their stories.

God has provided heroic Bible stories as beacons of hope for us—helping us become people called and equipped by Him and standing for Him.

Reflect & Pray

How has a Bible story inspired you to trust in God’s faithfulness? Why is it vital for us to share stories of His faithfulness with others?

Heavenly Father, the Scriptures are amazing. Please help me read the stories contained within them and learn more about You.

Today’s Insights

In addition to Mary the mother of Jesus, the New Testament mentions several other women named Mary. One of them is Mary Magdalene (from the Galilean town of Magdala). Luke records that she was among those who followed Christ: “The Twelve were with him, and also some women who had been cured of evil spirits and diseases: Mary (called Magdalene) from whom seven demons had come out” (Luke 8:1-2). Her personal experience with Jesus, along with witnessing His words and works, undoubtedly fueled her devotion, a devotion that didn’t end after she stood near the cross during Christ’s crucifixion (Matthew 27:55-56; Mark 15:40; John 19:25). The last time she’s mentioned in the Bible is when Jesus appears to her at the tomb (John 20:11-18). Mary’s story is a reminder to us of God’s faithfulness and can help us also become people who stand for Him.

For additional reflection, read: Shephelah – Why the Stories of the Bible Need to be Shared.

 

 

 

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Denison Forum

Denison Forum – Russell Brand’s conviction and a Christian response

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Why God’s forgiveness doesn’t remove earthly consequences

Russell Brand, a famous celebrity, podcaster, ex-husband of Katy Perry, and recent Christian convert, was sentenced to over 10 years in prison on Monday. He was found guilty on one count of rape and three counts of sexual assault against four different women. All of the charges against Brand were between the years 2004 and 2009, with the women involved testifying that he had committed grievous sexual crimes against them.

The trial of Brand has faced multiple competing viewpoints, with some people claiming that his previous lifestyle of sexual promiscuity makes the claims against him credible, with the sentence against him deserved and justified. Yet some find the charges against Russell Brand to be a consequence of exposing the evils of the system he was previously aligned with, coupled with his conversion to Christianity in 2024.

Some argue that oral testimony and corroborating witness testimony are not sufficient to convict him without physical evidence, while others disagree, saying they should be more than enough. While public opinion remains divided, navigating such a sensitive and traumatic topic is best done under the guidance of Christian principles as described in Scripture.

How to navigate Brand’s sentencing

In recent years, sexual crimes, such as rape, sex trafficking, and sexual abuse of minors, have been constantly spotlighted in our world. Whether it’s the Epstein Files, Andrew Tate, or Robert Morris, sexual immorality has rampantly dominated the news media and social media.

Few issues should unify us more in our world than to despise, revile, and eradicate sexual crimes of all kinds. They violate basic human dignity and defile the very design that God created humanity for—we are made in his image and are made to be holy as he is holy. With that said, how should we navigate this situation with Russell Brand?

First, we must recognize that Brand acknowledged that he had committed various kinds of sexual promiscuity in his past. 

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It’s important to note that he claims never to have done anything non-consensual. But while we are allowed to draw our own conclusions, it’s an example of how dangerous sin is, regardless of when or where it is committed.

Brand’s past serves as a sobering reminder of the destructive nature of sin, while the crimes for which he was convicted demonstrate the devastating consequences of violating another person’s dignity. This should be a message to all people, particularly Christians, that we must always live above reproach and never put ourselves in situations where we could be accused of such things (Titus 2:7-8). Granted, accusations may occur, but believers should strive to be proactive in this area. Unfortunately, Brand did not live according to this scriptural truth in his earlier years, and that is now coming full circle.

Second, we can hold Brand accountable for his sins while still recognizing the possibility of genuine transformation through his professed conversion to Christianity. His present relationship with Christ does not absolve him of the consequences of the law, nor does it mean he should receive any leniency. Crimes such as these should not be minimized or excused. But it does mean that, should his conversion be genuine, we can find joy in the fact that the Russell Brand who once committed these crimes is now dead, and the new Russell Brand, the one bought with the blood of Jesus Christ, is now alive (2 Cor. 5:17).

Only God knows someone’s heart, but we should be hopeful of His saving grace and transformation.

Finally, we can pray for healing and restoration for the victims, and for Brand himself. 

It is acceptable and even reasonable to be angry, but do not let it consume you. Christians are called to love like Christ in thought, word, and deed. It is possible to pray for the victims with the desire for legitimate justice while still praying that Brand is no longer the man who committed such terrible crimes.

Justice also demands that we take the victims’ suffering seriously. We must recognize that their dignity, healing, and restoration must not be overshadowed by the public’s fascination with the offender.

Micah 6:8 says, “He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God” (NIV). This, brothers and sisters, is how we are to live.

 

 

Denison Forum

Innovative News WEB site – newsfeathers.com – The news, with a little ruffle

Greg Laurie

Harvest Ministries; Greg Laurie – The Lifeblood of the Church

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 So encourage each other and build each other up, just as you are already doing. 

—1 Thessalonians 5:11

Scripture:

1 Thessalonians 5:11 

In today’s devotion, we’re going to talk about the importance of befriending and encouraging new Christians.

It’s always exciting to see children discover something adults take for granted, like the first time they taste ice cream, or the first time they see snow, or the first time they walk on the sand. In their excitement, we rediscover it ourselves.

The same is true spiritually. If a Christian has a life that isn’t welcoming to new believers, then something is wrong. They need us. But we also need them. Why? We will rediscover things that we take for granted. New believers need mature believers to stabilize them. And mature believers need new believers to revitalize them. In the Christian life, we can begin to take things for granted. We perhaps don’t enjoy certain things as much as we ought to.

New believers are the lifeblood of the church, but they are also the lifeblood of older Christians. Some churches grow by church transfer, in which most of their congregants come from other churches. Harvest Christian Fellowship grows primarily through new converts. We are an evangelistic church, without apology.

I believe that Christ died for the whole world, and whoever will believe in Him can be forgiven of their sins. My job is to preach the gospel and invite people to Jesus Christ, and I will keep doing this.

When someone accepts that invitation, their Christian journey begins. The first few legs of that journey are often powered by the excitement of their newfound faith. The joy of having a personal relationship with the Creator of the universe. The realization of how deeply He loves us. The certainty of eternal life.

When the newness wears off, however, uncertainty rears its head. Longtime believers sometimes forget just how disorienting it can be to experience such a profound life change. We assume that disciplines such as prayer and Bible study will just come naturally to new believers. But that’s not necessarily the case.

We need to keep in mind, too, that our enemy preys on the vulnerable. There’s nothing he likes more than squashing faith before it has a chance to grow.

What new believers need more than anything else is a friend. They don’t need a Bible scholar. (If you are a Bible scholar, all the better. But new believers don’t need that.) They simply need someone to show them what a real, living, breathing Christian looks like. They need to see fellow believers in different seasons of life. They need a practical example of what it means to live as a follower of Christ.

All believers are called to do this—to come alongside new believers. Yet many of us would admit that we just don’t. If you take a new believer under your wing, not only will you help someone else, but you will also help yourself.

Reflection question: What would befriending and encouraging new believers look like in your life? Discuss this with believers like you on Harvest Discipleship!

 

 

 

Harvest.org | Greg Laurie

Innovative News WEB site – newsfeathers.com – The news, with a little ruffle

Days of Praise

Days of Praise – To End All Wars

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by Henry M. Morris, Ph.D.

“And he shall judge among the nations, and shall rebuke many people: and they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruning hooks: nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any more.” (Isaiah 2:4)

It has been over 100 years since “The War to End All Wars” ended in victory for those who had “fought to make the world safe for democracy” (Woodrow Wilson). A celebration of thanksgiving followed, and a holiday was established to commemorate that great Armistice Day (now Veterans Day).

However, an even greater war soon followed, only to be repeated by innumerable local wars and revolutions. Instead of a world of liberty and democracy, many of the world’s nations are now under the brutal heel of totalitarian dictatorships. With the threat of potential nuclear obliteration hanging over the world, the prophecy of Christ is being literally fulfilled: “Men’s hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth” (Luke 21:26).

In the 25 centuries since our text was first uttered, there has been a war going on somewhere in the world at least 11 out of every 12 years, and it certainly seems unlikely that such a promise will ever be fulfilled.

Yet it is God who has promised, and only He can accomplish it. “He shall judge among the nations, and shall rebuke many people” (our text). “Of the increase of His government and peace there shall be no end . . . . The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this” (Isaiah 9:7). When the Lord Jesus Christ comes again, “he shall speak peace unto the [nations]: and his dominion shall be from sea even to sea, and from the river even to the ends of the earth” (Zechariah 9:10). Finally, world peace will come, and Christ “shall reign for ever and ever” (Revelation 11:15). HMM

 

 

 

https://www.icr.org/articles/type/6

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Joyce Meyer

Joyce Meyer – You Are God’s Friend

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Let us then fearlessly and confidently and boldly draw near to the throne of grace (the throne of God’s unmerited favor to us sinners), that we may receive mercy [for our failures] and find grace to help in good time for every need [appropriate help and well-timed help, coming just when we need it].

Hebrews 4:16 (AMPC)

When you take God as your partner in life and you’re not interested in doing anything without Him, then you are a true friend of God. Some people are not getting their needs met because they are insecure about their relationship with God and won’t pray boldly and with confidence.

But when you know that you are God’s friend, it gives you the boldness to approach Him at any time, for anything. This friendship causes you to press in to receive things that you know are yours according to God’s Word. Possessing the knowledge that you are a friend of God causes you to be shamelessly persistent until you feel victory in your spirit. When that happens, you will feel a release that allows you to go ahead and enjoy your life, knowing that God is answering your prayer. Unfortunately, many people are afraid to expect anything from God.

But there is nothing wrong with asking God for big things and being expectant. Friendship with the Lord involves prayer, and prayer is all about moving in faith and getting situations changed. It is intimate conversation between you and Father God. It is in our prayer lives— those private conversational times alone with Him—that we develop our friendship.

If you try to wait until you are perfect to develop this divine friendship, it will never happen because we will always be growing spiritually; we will never be perfect. All God is asking is that we do our best every day to follow Him. The apostle James said, You have not because you ask not (James 4:2 KJV). Start asking!

Prayer of the Day: Father, thank You for calling me Your friend. Give me boldness to approach You freely, ask for big things, and trust Your perfect timing.

 

 

http://www.joycemeyer.org

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Max Lucado

Max Lucado – Blessings in Obedience 

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Play

Obedience leads to blessing. Disobedience leads to trouble. Remember Jesus’ parable about the two builders who each built a house? One built on cheap, easy-to-access sand. The other built on costly, difficult-to-reach rock. The second construction project demanded more time and expense. But when the spring rains turned the creek into a gully washer, guess which builder enjoyed a blessing and which experienced trouble?

According to Jesus, the wise builder is whoever hears these sayings of mine and does them. The difference between the two was not knowledge and ignorance, but obedience and disobedience. Security comes when we put God’s precepts into practice, we’re only as strong as our obedience.

 

 

 

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Today in the Word

Today in the Word – Moody Bible Institute – Dramatic Conversion

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Read Acts 9:1–31

Saul was a religious young man determined to destroy the movement of Christ followers known as the Way. Saul had not only watched the stoning of Stephen, he had given his approval. In Acts chapter 9, Saul requested letters from the high priest giving permission to track down Christians in the synagogues in Damascus and imprison them in Jerusalem. Saul was willing to travel approximately 135 miles (one way!) to destroy this movement.

As Saul approached Damascus, he saw a bright light that caused him to fall to the ground. A voice said, “Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?” (v. 4). After Saul asked, “Who are you, Lord?” (v. 5), the Lord stated, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting” (v. 5). When Saul rose from the ground, he was blind (v. 8).

Saul’s blindness was symbolic of his life before encountering Jesus. Despite Saul’s religious fervor, he was blind to the truth of the gospel. As Paul writes elsewhere, “Brothers and sisters, my heart’s desire and prayer to God for the Israelites is that they may be saved. For I can testify about them that they are zealous for God, but their zeal is not based on knowledge” (Rom. 10:1–2).

In Damascus, a disciple of the Way named Ananias had a vision from the Lord. He was to meet Saul and lay hands on him to restore his sight. Ananias was concerned because of all he had heard about Saul. However, he obeyed God and after laying hands on Saul, the scale-like material fell off Saul’s eyes.

The first man Saul saw after his conversion was a faithful believer who referred to Saul as his brother (Acts 9:17–18). God can change the hardest hearts and may use you to open the spiritual ears and eyes of those you least expect to come to Christ.

Go Deeper

Do you know someone who seems hardened to the gospel? How does Saul’s story encourage you in your prayers for this person?

Pray with Us

We know there is no heart too far gone for You to rescue, Jesus. Please remind us of this when we feel someone is beyond saving. Thank You for letting us be part of Your redemptive plan.

This man is my chosen instrument to proclaim my name to the Gentiles and their kings and to the people of Israel.Acts 9:15

 

 

 

https://www.moodybible.org/

Innovative News WEB site – newsfeathers.com – The news, with a little ruffle

Turning Point

Turning Point; David Jeremiah – Entertaining Angels

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Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some have unwittingly entertained angels.
Hebrews 13:2

Recommended Reading: Genesis 18:1-2; 19:1

Hebrews 13:2 gives us a rare window into an unexpected possibility: that we might encounter and interact with an angel. It’s possible that the writer of Hebrews was thinking of an encounter between Abraham, the personified Lord, and two angels who appeared as men (Genesis 18).

All three figures—Jesus and the two angels—first appeared to be human visitors. When Abraham recognized one of them as the Lord, he persuaded them to stay so that he might provide hospitality and a meal. The Lord appeared to Abraham and Sarah to tell them that they would have a son within a year. After their meeting, the Lord departed while the two angels continued to Sodom to deliver a message of judgment (Genesis 19). If this meeting was in the mind of the writer of Hebrews, it serves as an admonition for us as well. Angels can appear in our life without us knowing who they are. Hospitality extended to strangers may be an act of kindness extended to angels.

Hospitality is incumbent upon us all (1 Peter 4:9)—even more so when the possibility exists that we might be serving angels.

We must not get so busy counting demons that we forget the holy angels.
Billy Graham

 

 

 

https://www.davidjeremiah.org

Our Daily Bread

Our Daily Bread – A Disciplined Life

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[Athletes] do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. 1 Corinthians 9:25

Today’s Scripture

1 Corinthians 9:20-27

Listen to Today’s Devotion

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Today’s Devotion

Tom Cruise has built his film career on a megawatt smile . . . and incredible stunts. The signature stunt in the seventh Mission: Impossible spy action film featured Cruise riding a motorcycle off a cliff and parachuting to safety.

In other Mission: Impossible films, he’s hung off an airplane, held his breath underwater for more than six minutes, and performed high-altitude jumps. We might call him crazy. But Cruise’s commitment—for the sake of telling the best cinematic story—is remarkable.

In 1 Corinthians 9, Paul identified another group whose training demanded everything of them: competitive athletes. He praised their discipline: “Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training” (v. 25). He said they were compelled by temporal glory—“to get a crown that will not last”—while believers in Jesus are compelled by a calling with eternal value: “to get a crown that will last forever” (v. 25).

Are we as committed to our faith as a disciplined athlete—or a famous actor—might be? “Run in such a way as to get the prize,” Paul said (v. 24). Because of God’s grace, we will receive the crown of life as sons and daughters of the King. That changes everything about how we spend our days here.

Reflect & Pray

How do being saved by grace and living a disciplined life relate? How has God used disciplines to transform you?

Dear Father, thank You for sending Jesus to live and die on my behalf. Please help me live today as a response to that gift, offering everything fully to You.

Today’s Insights

Paul’s commitment to sharing the good news of Jesus compelled him to live as the Jewish people lived when trying to reach them (1 Corinthians 9:20). But he put that aside to live like the gentiles when ministering to non-Jews (v. 19). In fact, he lived “like one not having the law” (v. 21). Yet he noted, “I am not free from God’s law but am under Christ’s law” (v. 21)—the law of love. “I am not seeking my own good but the good of many,” the apostle said (10:33). Because of Christ’s great salvation, we, like the apostle, should live disciplined lives “for the sake of the gospel” (9:23).

For additional reflection, watch: Carried By Grace.

 

 

 

http://www.odb.org

Denison Forum

Denison Forum – President Trump names Stephen Miller his chief of staff

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Today’s news is filled with conjecture regarding how Democrats will respond to their “blue wave” midterm victories and how President Trump will respond to their response.

For example, Mr. Trump’s decision to replace Susie Wiles with Stephen Miller as his chief of staff is seen by the Wall Street Journal as indicating that he “intends to spend the final two years of his presidency doubling down on his core beliefs, many of which were rejected by voters on Tuesday, and not seeking out deals with Democrats.” For their part, House Democrats are “preparing a vast oversight agenda” to investigate the president and his family; Hakeem Jeffries, in line to become House speaker, has not ruled out trying to impeach Mr. Trump for a third time.

At its heart, the issue is whether our elected leaders should primarily seek to do what their constituents want them to do, or whether they should do what they believe to be in their constituents’ best interests, whether their constituents know it or not. To the degree that the Democrats were elected to address affordability, will investigations of the Trump administration please an activist minority but frustrate the majority? To the degree that Mr. Trump refuses to work with the Democrats, will he please his core supporters but frustrate the rest of his party?

Continue reading Denison Forum – President Trump names Stephen Miller his chief of staff →

Greg Laurie

Harvest Ministries; Greg Laurie – The One Who Loves to Bless

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 So don’t be afraid, little flock. For it gives your Father great happiness to give you the Kingdom. 

—Luke 12:32

Scripture:

Luke 12:32 

In this week’s devotions, we’re looking at words believers can use to encourage one another. Today we’re going to talk about this amazing sentence: God loves to bless His children.

One Greek word translated “blessed” in the New Testament is makarios, which means “blessed,” “happy,” or “fortunate.” It describes a kind of blessedness that isn’t dependent on favorable circumstances. A prominent use of the word appears in the Beatitudes in Matthew 5:3–11.

Sometimes in our lives, our happiness is not self-contained. Rather, it’s contingent on good things happening. We think that if we could just get that raise at work, we would be happy. When something fun or exciting is happening, then we’re happy. But when we don’t get that raise at work or when we get some bad news, we’re not happy. In those circumstances, our happiness depends on good things happening.

But blessed is a different kind of word. Regardless of what is taking place circumstantially, you are blessed. That’s the idea of makarios.

God wants to bless you. Jesus said, “So don’t be afraid, little flock. For it gives your Father great happiness to give you the Kingdom” (Luke 12:32 NLT).

If you’re a parent, this type of generosity probably resonates with you. You know the feeling of happiness that comes from giving your kids something special. The difference is that, as imperfect human parents, we can get caught up in the gift-giving and lose sight of the big picture. Sometimes we go overboard and spoil our children. Sometimes we give them things that are less than healthy.

That doesn’t happen with our perfect heavenly Father. He created us, so He knows our innermost workings. Jesus said that “your Father knows exactly what you need even before you ask him” (Matthew 6:8 NLT).

God blesses us with resources. He blesses us with spiritual gifts. He blesses us with an eternal future. He blesses us with friends and family members. He blesses us with opportunities. He blesses us with challenges. He blesses us with the tools to overcome those challenges. He blesses us with a sense of peace in the midst of those challenges. And that’s only the tip of the blessings iceberg!

Acknowledging the Lord’s amazing generosity creates a healthy spiritual cycle. The more we recognize how profoundly blessed we are, the more thankful we become. The more we recognize how generous God is, the more sincere our worship will be. And as we recognize His goodness, our hearts are drawn closer to Him.

The psalmist wrote, “Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good! His faithful love endures forever” (Psalm 107:1 NLT).

The New Testament author James wrote, “Come close to God, and God will come close to you” (James 4:8 NLT).

If you’re a child of God, then know this: God loves to bless His children. And here’s something else to remember: God wants to bless you even more than you want to be blessed. Isn’t that great to know?

Reflection question: How can you celebrate God’s blessings in your life? Discuss this with believers like you on Harvest Discipleship!

 

 

 

Harvest.org | Greg Laurie

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