Daily Devotional

[Prayer_Warrior]

July 31, 2024 Wednesday

Isaiah 43:14-19 (KJV)
Thus saith the LORD, your redeemer, the Holy One of Israel; For your sake I have sent to Babylon, and have brought down all their nobles, and the Chaldeans, whose cry is in the ships.
I am the LORD, your Holy One, the creator of Israel, your King.
Thus saith the LORD, which maketh a way in the sea, and a path in the mighty waters;
Which bringeth forth the chariot and horse, the army and the power; they shall lie down together, they shall not rise: they are extinct, they are quenched as tow.
Remember ye not the former things, neither consider the things of old.
Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert.

Out with the old, In with the new

David Jacobs

I have had arguments with friends on both sides regarding one topic: evolution. Some of my Christian friends are completely against the theory, thinking that believing it is an attack on Christian beliefs. Some of my non-Christian friends think that religion and science are diametrically opposed, and that one cannot include the other. Science attempts to explain the things in our observable universe, but what about the unobservable things? Not only that, if we are made in the image of God and we are changing, wouldn’t that mean that we are changing because of God? Do not presume to know anything about God because you have some information based on old events. At any time He wants, He can make something totally new.

Through God, all things are possible, and all things may be made a new. Dwell not on the past, of what was or could have been, but rather look forward to what through God’s grace, may unfold within his divine plan. Being a Christian is constantly about a state of becoming, of a movement towards the Light of perfection shown to us by Christ. A part of this is to always remain open to Gods’ works and feats, emerging all around us. Gods will to create and recreate the world is his right as our Heavenly father, and it is not for us to mourn what may pass, but rather to seek to adapt our faith in becoming, or in what is yet to come.

Prayer
Lord in Heaven, hallowed be your name. Grant me the wisdom to cling to what is important, but not to dwell on the past. I wish to improve each and every day, to grow closer to you, and to meditate on your word. I know that you and you alone, Abba Father, can lead me from darkness, a lamp unto my feet. Amen.

[Prayer_Warrior]

August 01, 2024 Thursday

2 Corinthians 5:17-21 (KJV)
Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.
And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation;
To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation.
Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God.
For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.

Ambassadors of Christ

David Jacobs

Have you ever wished that you were somebody else? Perhaps somebody famous: a great musician, movie star, politician, or athlete. I used to wonder how great it would be to be able to feel what another person is feeling, to see what they are seeing, and in my younger years I wished that I was a little bit taller, faster, stronger, or capable of doing some of the things that my favorite athletes could do. I am still waiting for my second growth spurt, but am more content in my own body than when I was less mature.

You may know the feeling that I am talking about: wishing to be someone else. It is easy to forget our own value when comparing yourself to others who seem richer, more successful, popular, or happy. We cannot ever fully grasp what dwells in another person’s heart; that is for God to know. If we want to be someone else, we must look within and not outward. We cannot escape ourselves, but through God there are ways in which we may be remade. We may never be taller, stronger, and wealthier overnight; we can be better, happier, and more generous, learning from the examples in the Scriptures. Take the prodigal son as an example: squandered what he had been given, but his father celebrates his return, noting “he was lost and is found.”(Luke 15:11-32)

Prayer
God has shown us, through His word, how He asks of us to live. He has sent His son, Jesus Christ, to die for us, forgiving us all our sins. There is no need to want to be another person; we all have a chance to be renewed through Christ, every day. Thanks be to God. Amen.

[Prayer_Warrior]

August 02, 2024 Friday

Hebrews 13:1-6 (KJV)
Let brotherly love continue.
Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.
Remember them that are in bonds, as bound with them; and them which suffer adversity, as being yourselves also in the body.
Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge.
Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.
So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.

Live in brotherly love, not fearing man

David Jacobs

I was born in Philadelphia, the city of brotherly love. Philadelphia is a great city, filled with passionate and hard-working people, was an important center in early American history, and is known for its tough and straightforward citizens. I love the city and always will, but there is a bit of irony in calling it the city of brotherly love. There are few places in America with a populace of sharper-tongued and strong individuals. Let’s examine these verses and see how we can learn to be more in touch with our emotions by becoming more in touch with God.

Firstly, we must love one another, even strangers. Everyone is going through their own trials and tribulations. Next, marriage is the backbone of a healthy society, and is perhaps evidenced by the crumbling state of our moral codes today. We should not covet because it corrodes not only our relationships with others but also the things we already have. When we envy others, it makes us devalue what we already have and not give thanks for what the Lord has provided. Lastly, if we do all of these things, we will never be afraid of bullies, never be afraid of the sharp-tongued Philadelphians, never be afraid of our fellow men. We would live in peace, our energy would be spent giving thanks to God, living in a world of brotherly love.

Questions
What are the characteristics of the place where you grew up?
How has religion affected your home?

[Prayer_Warrior]

August 04, 2024 Saturday

Psalm 3:1-8 (KJV)
LORD, how are they increased that trouble me! many are they that rise up against me.
Many there be which say of my soul, There is no help for him in God. Selah.
But thou, O LORD, art a shield for me; my glory, and the lifter up of mine head.
I cried unto the LORD with my voice, and he heard me out of his holy hill. Selah.
I laid me down and slept; I awaked; for the LORD sustained me.
I will not be afraid of ten thousands of people, that have set themselves against me round about.
Arise, O LORD; save me, O my God: for thou hast smitten all mine enemies upon the cheek bone; thou hast broken the teeth of the ungodly.
Salvation belongeth unto the LORD: thy blessing is upon thy people. Selah.

Save me Lord, My Shield

David Jacobs

You may know the story of Julius Caesar. He was the famous ruler of the Roman empire, known throughout much of the world, and held in high esteem for his wisdom and cunning abilities. He thought that he was well liked in his own country, leading in the senate amongst his friends, especially his best friend, Brutus. On the Ides of March, March 15th, three senators, Gaius Cassius Longinus, Decimus Junius Brutus Albinus, and Marcus Junius Brutus, his close friend, lead the assassination outside of the Theatre of Pompey, killing Julius Caesar. In the Shakespeare play of the same name, Caesar famously says, “Et tu, Brute?” (even you, Brutus?) A gang of conspirators that he thought were friends ended his life, taking power for themselves.

In life, it can sometimes feel like the world is conspiring against us, much like Caesar. Little things from our closest friends can hurt us, but why should we be hurt when we have the Lord as our shield? Consider these verses; they could have come in handy for poor Caesar. Our faith in God is our shield against all foes; He will defeat all of our enemies; He, and only He, will grant us salvation.

Prayer
It feels terrible when you are up against difficult odds: many things working against only you. Remember: it is not only you! God is with you and will always be there to protect you. He is our rock and shield. Instead of asking, “Et tu, God?” we will declare, “Et tu, God!” Thanks be to God. Amen

[Prayer_Warrior]

August 04, 2024 Sunday

2 Corinthians 4:14-18 (KJV)
Knowing that he which raised up the Lord Jesus shall raise up us also by Jesus, and shall present us with you.
For all things are for your sakes, that the abundant grace might through the thanksgiving of many redound to the glory of God.
For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day.
For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory;
While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.

See the invisible, hear the inaudible

David Jacobs

Have you ever been to a different country and worshipped at a church? On a musical mission trip to Brazil I experienced this unique opportunity. I am unable to speak Portuguese, so it was basically impossible to understand what was being said in the service. However, I was part of my church orchestra and we got to share the ministry of our church through music with various churches in Brazil. It was an incredible experience: we were able to communicate our passion for Christ and celebrate our joyous worship to God together, thousands of miles from home, in a place where we could not speak the language. We didn’t need to speak the language, because we knew that we all believed in the same things.

Paul writes these letters to churches in places that he may never get to see with his own eyes. He writes these letters to new believers in Christ, thirsting for more knowledge and guidance from Jesus. He writes these letters not knowing the people’s situation entirely, but understand the same things that I understood in Brazil: devotees of Christ look at more than just what can be seen; they hear more than just what can be heard; they look at what is unseen and unheard. Christ the man could be seen and heard, but his message, God’s word, is eternal. The material world will come and it will pass, tied to a specific place and time. The Lord, our God, Paul’s God, the Corinthians’ God, is everlasting.

Prayer
Dearest Lord, your kingdom come, your will be done, on Earth as it is in Heaven. Grant me the wisdom to look beyond that which my eyes can see, beyond what my ears can hear, beyond what my hands can touch. Help me, loving Lord, to deal with loss and give up my temporary possessions. I long to join you and your only begotten son, Jesus Christ, in eternal bliss. You are my God, my strength, and my redeemer. Amen.

[Prayer_Warrior]

August 05, 2024 Monday

Psalms 130:1-8 (KJV)
Out of the depths have I cried unto thee, O LORD.
Lord, hear my voice: let thine ears be attentive to the voice of my supplications.
If thou, LORD, shouldest mark iniquities, O Lord, who shall stand?
But there is forgiveness with thee, that thou mayest be feared.
I wait for the LORD, my soul doth wait, and in his word do I hope.
My soul waiteth for the Lord more than they that watch for the morning: I say, more than they that watch for the morning.
Let Israel hope in the LORD: for with the LORD there is mercy, and with him is plenteous redemption.
And he shall redeem Israel from all his iniquities.

MY Waiting Soul

David Jacobs

In modern times everything has gotten easier and faster. We want things “on demand,” order things directly to our house, and even can call cars to come to pick us up through our phones. If we have to wait on the phone to talk to a real person or wait in a line at the supermarket, it can negatively affect our mood! How spoiled have we become? Does God not patiently wait for all of us, even if it is on our dying day? Of course he does, and for Him the reward is much less than it is for us. Our reward for going to Him, regardless of how long it may take us: eternal life!

All people are worthy of salvation in the eyes of the Lord. Even murderers, sentenced to death row, awaiting their execution, can draw comfort knowing that they can be redeemed. This is the power of Christ. Think of Christ’s crucifixion and the story of the penitent thief (Luke 23:32-43). The criminal asks Jesus, as they are on the crosses, for forgiveness, to which Jesus replies: “Amen I say to you today you will be with me in Paradise.” (Luke 23:43)

No matter your situation, no matter what you have done, no matter what you will do, no matter when, if you seek God and ask for forgiveness, you will be redeemed. It may not be instantaneous as we want everything to be in modern society, but everlasting life is certainly worth the wait!

Prayer
Lord, please hear my short prayer: I long for the day that I can say to you as Christ said on the cross. “Amen I say to you today you will be with me in Paradise.” Praise be to God! Amen.

[Prayer_Warrior]

August 06, 2024 Tuesday

Psalm 2:1-12 (KJV)
Why do the heathen rage, and the people imagine a vain thing?
The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together, against the LORD, and against his anointed, saying,
Let us break their bands asunder, and cast away their cords from us.
He that sitteth in the heavens shall laugh: the Lord shall have them in derision.
Then shall he speak unto them in his wrath, and vex them in his sore displeasure.
Yet have I set my king upon my holy hill of Zion.
I will declare the decree: the LORD hath said unto me, Thou art my Son; this day have I begotten thee.
Ask of me, and I shall give thee the heathen for thine inheritance, and the uttermost parts of the earth for thy possession.
Thou shalt break them with a rod of iron; thou shalt dash them in pieces like a potter’s vessel.
Be wise now therefore, O ye kings: be instructed, ye judges of the earth.
Serve the LORD with fear, and rejoice with trembling.
Kiss the Son, lest he be angry, and ye perish from the way, when his wrath is kindled but a little. Blessed are all they that put their trust in him.

Tremble and serve the one true King!

David Jacobs

As I read this Psalm, I am struck by a question: have I ever obeyed someone solely out of fear? It is a strange idea, and a quote from one of my favorite movies, Star Wars, pops into my head: “The more you tighten your grip, the more star systems will slip through your fingers.” The rebel princess, Leia, says this to a leader of the evil Imperial army, right before her home planet is destroyed. She will have the last laugh, remaining faithful to her rebellious and good cause, and her quote reminded me of this verse. It leads me to another thought: obedience due to fear is one thing, but obedience due to fearing you will let God done is entirely different.

In Star Wars, citizens obey the Imperial army out of sheer terror, fearful of punishment and death. King David was no stranger to sin, but he obediently served the Lord until his last days. King David knew how powerful God’s might was, but more importantly, he knew how powerful God’s love for him was. He did not want to let God down; he did not want to disobey; he was afraid of disappointing the God that had granted him every desire (2 Samuel 23:5). God does not want to hurt us; He wants to love us. Obediently serve Him to the best of your abilities, as King David did, and have nothing to fear.

Prayer
Many Christians are passive believers, fearful of going to hell rather than focused on the love of God. Cling to the word of the Lord, follow its teachings, and you have nothing to be afraid of. Amen.

[Prayer_Warrior]

August 07 2024 Wednesday

Galatians 5:16-26 (KJV)
This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.
For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would.
But if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law.
Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness,
Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies,
Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,
Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.
And they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts.
If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.
Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another.

Live by the Spirit, die by the Spirit

David Jacobs

It is not always easy to control our natural urges. Our consumer culture seems completely devoid of any moral compass, constantly leading us towards temptation. Turn on the TV, watch any movie, listen to any song, look at any advertisement online or on the TV or in a movie…we are constantly bombarded by sins of the flesh: lust, violence, gluttony, greed, envy. As followers of Christ, the task of resisting these temptations may seem daunting, and it is. However, considering the consequences of relenting and giving in to these temptations, it is obviously worthwhile.

The Old Testament commandments are often prohibitive, and God’s prophets more strict than the Apostles. In the verses directly preceding these, Paul writes that circumcision, a commandment of Moses, is no longer necessary and does not measure the worth of a man (Galatians 5:6). In the verses above, Paul writes about much of the sins to avoid, but he also mentions what we should pursue: love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance. These we should perform in abundance, the sins as sparingly as possible. It may sound difficult when you read the words, but it is a guide to make our lives and the world as the kingdom of heaven: one of eternal love and life everlasting.

Sins are like a credit card: buy now; pay later.
Unknown

Prayer
Dear Lord, We are thankful for Your desire to forgive us when we sin. You are merciful and we find comfort knowing you always see the goodness in our hearts. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

[Prayer_Warrior]

August 08, 2024 Thursday

Romans 12:17-21 (KJV)
Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men.
If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.
Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.
Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head.
Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.

Just reward

David Jacobs

Forest fires are a huge problem in California. Lightning strikes, cigarettes, and dry weather contribute to the problem, but the landscape is perfectly set up for raging wildfires. The climate is dry and hot, there is not much water, and the arid plants are like kindling. You may have heard the phrase, “Fight fire with fire.” This is usually referring to fighting back against someone that is your opponent, aggression with aggression. I was surprised to learn that one of the most effective ways to fight a wildfire is with fire! Firefighters will execute a controlled burn, burning up the plants and grass that is in the path of the wildfire. They will be able to put this fire out, and when the wild fire arrives, there is nothing left for it to burn, so it eventually dies out: a brilliant strategy giving new meaning to the phrase.

We may get angry and feel vengeful, wanting to retaliate against someone that has been violent or aggressive to us by being violent or aggressive to them. We should not do this, Paul writes in his letter to the Romans. We should, above all, be like Christ, turning the other cheek (Matthew 5:39), living peaceably with all men. You may have also heard the phrase, “Revenge is a dish best served cold.” I think it should be changed to, “Revenge is a dish best never served.” Christ taught to love even your enemy (Matthew 5:43-48), and Paul reiterates this teaching in these verses, imploring us not to be overcome by evil but instead overcome evil with good. Go from this place to love the Lord, and love the people; to serve the Lord, and serve the people. Leave everything else, including vengeance, to God.

Prayer
Dear Lord, Thank you for your presence during each season of life. The fruits we bear are the product of a love that surpasses all our expectations. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

[Prayer_Warrior]

August 09, 2024 Friday

Philippians 4:13 (KJV)
I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.

I can do all things

David Jacobs

There is a story in American folklore called “Chicken Little” or “Henny Penny,” about a young chicken that believes the world is coming to an end. He tells the other chickens that “the sky is falling,” several times, but nothing ever happens. Every day he comes back making the same claim: “the sky is falling, the sky is falling,” but nothing happens. Until one day, he claims that the sky is falling once again, which nobody believed. He had said his message so many times it had lost it’s meaning, so when the sky actually fell, nobody believed him.

This verse may be one of the most unintentionally quoted in the entire Bible, said after almost every positive outcome by many athletes. It has been said so much that I think it has begun to lose some of it’s meaning. It is also a striking verse in the Bible, powerful, simple, and beautiful.

Prayer
Giving Lord, loving Father, I thank you for your son, Jesus Christ, through which all things are possible. I pray that he gives the strength to endure even, to carry me when my resolve is empty, and surrender to his loving embrace. Remind me, Abba Father, because like him, I know that I can do all things through you and your only begotten son, who died for our sins. Amen.

[Prayer_Warrior]

August 10, 2024 Saturday

Psalms 139:17-24 (KJV)
How precious also are thy thoughts unto me, O God! how great is the sum of them!
If I should count them, they are more in number than the sand: when I awake, I am still with thee.
Surely thou wilt slay the wicked, O God: depart from me therefore, ye bloody men.
For they speak against thee wickedly, and thine enemies take thy name in vain.
Do not I hate them, O LORD, that hate thee? and am not I grieved with those that rise up against thee?
I hate them with perfect hatred: I count them mine enemies.
Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts:
And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.

Release your anger

David Jacobs

In my younger and more rash years, I would often use the word ‘hate’ to describe things: “hate it when it is cold”, “hate flying”, “hate this song.” What a negative energy it is to use such a strong word, a word that is the opposite of love! It took me some time to realize how often I was using the word ‘hate’, and took more time for me to learn to stop using the word hate. This Psalm and the teachings of Christ were two major reasons I started working towards removing the word from my lexicon.

It may seem that cursing the wicked and our enemies is noble in a way, but I am struck by the vocabulary used in these verses. Can you imagine Jesus speaking like this? Of course not! Look up how many people Christ says you can hate; better yet, I will save you the time and tell you: none. Nobody. Zero. You should not hate your enemies according to Christ. In fact, you should love them (Matthew 5:44, Luke 6:27-36).

This Psalm of the emotional King David shows how far God’s word had evolved by the time of Christ. Jesus’ life led to a transformation, but it seems as though David longed for what Jesus would later preach. He claims to hate his enemies and those that hate God. However, in the last verse, he asks God to search him for any wickedness, and lead him in the way everlasting. This verse foreshadows what is to come, generations after but from King David’s bloodline. Jesus Christ will teach devout men like Christ, like you, and like me, to do away with the word hate, replacing it with his favorite word: love.

Prayer
Dear Lord, it is an honor to be given the precious task to take care of those in need. Help us see all the opportunities you’ve laid out before us. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

[Prayer_Warrior]

August 11, 2024 Sunday

Acts 3:12-24 (KJV)
And when Peter saw it, he answered unto the people, Ye men of Israel, why marvel ye at this? or why look ye so earnestly on us, as though by our own power or holiness we had made this man to walk?
The God of Abraham, and of Isaac, and of Jacob, the God of our fathers, hath glorified his Son Jesus; whom ye delivered up, and denied him in the presence of Pilate, when he was determined to let him go.
But ye denied the Holy One and the Just, and desired a murderer to be granted unto you;
And killed the Prince of life, whom God hath raised from the dead; whereof we are witnesses.
And his name through faith in his name hath made this man strong, whom ye see and know: yea, the faith which is by him hath given him this perfect soundness in the presence of you all.
And now, brethren, I wot that through ignorance ye did it, as did also your rulers.
But those things, which God before had shewed by the mouth of all his prophets, that Christ should suffer, he hath so fulfilled.
Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord;
And he shall send Jesus Christ, which before was preached unto you:
Whom the heaven must receive until the times of restitution of all things, which God hath spoken by the mouth of all his holy prophets since the world began.
For Moses truly said unto the fathers, A prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you of your brethren, like unto me; him shall ye hear in all things whatsoever he shall say unto you.
And it shall come to pass, that every soul, which will not hear that prophet, shall be destroyed from among the people.
Yea, and all the prophets from Samuel and those that follow after, as many as have spoken, have likewise foretold of these days.

The prophecies fulfilled

David Jacobs

One thing that is important to me is keeping my promises. If I say the words ‘I promise’, it means that I really aim to keep it. These are not words that I wantonly throw around; if I say it, I mean it. When I read the books of the Old Testament, I am transported in history, thousands of years in the past, and I think about how life was like back then. I also think about the prophecies of the many important prophets: Isaiah, Ezra, Esther, Jeremiah, Hosea, Amos, Daniel, Elijah, Moses…these men changed history in ways that they seemingly could never have imagined. However, when I think about how and why they changed their world and ours, it seems that they did not have to imagine anything at all. They made a promise and a prophecy that eventually came true.

The apostles have witnessed the life of Christ more closely than anyone. They know more about Jesus and presumably have more faith in his teachings than anyone. When I consider their strong faith, it seems like inevitability given their front row seat to Christ’s life. However, what about the people that do not believe in Jesus? The other people that witnessed him first hand? The priests and learned scholars that new of the prophecies of the Old Testament, saw or heard about the life of Christ, and still did not choose to believe? What about them? And these questions beg the final question: what about us?

One thing that is important to me is keeping my promises. If I say the words ‘I promise’, it means that I really aim to keep it. These are not words that I wantonly throw around; if I say it, I mean it. When I read the books of the Old Testament, I am transported in history, thousands of years in the past, and I think about how life was like back then. I also think about the prophecies of the many important prophets: Isaiah, Ezra, Esther, Jeremiah, Hosea, Amos, Daniel, Elijah, Moses…these men changed history in ways that they seemingly could never have imagined. However, when I think about how and why they changed their world and ours, it seems that they did not have to imagine anything at all. They made a promise and a prophecy that eventually came true.

The apostles have witnessed the life of Christ more closely than anyone. They know more about Jesus and presumably have more faith in his teachings than anyone. When I consider their strong faith, it seems like inevitability given their front row seat to Christ’s life. However, what about the people that do not believe in Jesus? The other people that witnessed him first hand? The priests and learned scholars that new of the prophecies of the Old Testament, saw or heard about the life of Christ, and still did not choose to believe? What about them? And these questions beg the final question: what about us?

Prayer
Oh God, you are our refuge in times of darkness. We are thankful for your faithfulness and desire to love us unconditionally. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

[Prayer_Warrior]

August 12, 2024 Monday

Acts 4:6-13 (KJV)
And Annas the high priest, and Caiaphas, and John, and Alexander, and as many as were of the kindred of the high priest, were gathered together at Jerusalem.
And when they had set them in the midst, they asked, By what power, or by what name, have ye done this?
Then Peter, filled with the Holy Ghost, said unto them, Ye rulers of the people, and elders of Israel,
If we this day be examined of the good deed done to the impotent man, by what means he is made whole;
Be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by him doth this man stand here before you whole.
This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner.
Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.
Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marvelled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus.

By what power have you done this?

David Jacobs

I was involved in a physical altercation between two strangers that ended up with me getting in a bit of legal trouble. I was walking home in a busy part of the city where I was living when I noticed a large crowd in front of me. Everyone was watching something, and as I grew closer, I could hear two persons shooting. Suddenly I could see what the commotion was about: a man and a woman were arguing about something, and it appeared that he had hit her several times. I did not know these people, and I, and everyone else around me, hoped that the man would stop considering so many people were watching. Unfortunately, he did not stop, and I could not watch it continue. I was physically much larger than the man, so I came up behind him and took him to the ground. I held him there until the police arrived, and they took him away. However, because I was involved in the dispute and the man said I had hurt him, I also had to go to the station.

rIn that story, I knew there was a chance that there would be repercussions for my physical actions against a stranger. Luckily nothing happened to me, but there was a possibility. In the verses above, Peter and John are justifiably upset: in chapter 4 of Acts, they are arrested for healing the hand of a beggar outside of the temple. The priests asked Peter and John, “by what power, or by what name, have ye done this?” (Acts 4:7) They had had enough of this situation, knowing that they had done no wrong, boldly exclaiming that they were devotees of Christ, the man who they had killed. After learning that they were Disciples of Christ, Peter and John were freed.

Everybody has their limits. We must consider the meaning of our limits, however, making sure that they are in line with the teachings of Christ. They may not always be in accordance with the laws of nations, but we must remain loyal and obedient to the most noble power of all: God.

Prayer
Lord my Heavenly Father, grant me the strength to carry forward your word to those who need it most. Help settle my boundaries in accordance with your word, so that I do not overstep and assume to know on your behalf. Forgive those that know not of your teachings, and give me the courage to stand in front of them, proclaiming that you are the one true God. Amen.

[Prayer_Warrior]

August 13, 2024 Tuesday

Acts 8:29-35 (KJV)
Then the Spirit said unto Philip, Go near, and join thyself to this chariot.
And Philip ran thither to him, and heard him read the prophet Esaias, and said, Understandest thou what thou readest?
And he said, How can I, except some man should guide me? And he desired Philip that he would come up and sit with him.
The place of the scripture which he read was this, He was led as a sheep to the slaughter; and like a lamb dumb before his shearer, so opened he not his mouth:
In his humiliation his judgment was taken away: and who shall declare his generation? for his life is taken from the earth.
And the eunuch answered Philip, and said, I pray thee, of whom speaketh the prophet this? of himself, or of some other man?
Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus.

Teachers needed!

David Jacobs

I was a fairly devout Christian when I entered my first year at my university. I went to church every Sunday, had traveled on mission trips with my orchestra, and had read the Bible more carefully than most people had…or at least so I thought. This changed during my first semester at university. One of my class requirements was a Biblical Literature course. I can honestly say that no class has changed my life more than that introductory Bib Lit course. My professor was, in my mind, a genius. He showed me things that I had never even thought of before: who wrote the Bible, when, why, translations, different versions, when the texts were found and by whom…the list goes on and on. He became my mentor and I became obsessed with knowing everything that I could about the Bible. Meeting him accelerated my faith journey tremendously. Thanks be to God!

In these verses, Philip is called by the spirit to go meet a man on a chariot. The man is an Ethiopian eunuch, reading the teachings of a prophet, but unable to fully understand them. Just like I was in my university time, the eunuch was like a clueless sheep before his shearer, trusting yet not confident in what was going to happen. Luckily for the eunuch, Philip is certainly qualified to teach him about the scriptures and Christ, which the eunuch may have been waiting for his entire life.

Prayer
Have you had any valuable mentors along the way of your faith journey? Are there any people in your life that you could possibly be a mentor for? Reach out to both parties: thank your mentors and share what you know with a mentee.

[Prayer_Warrior]

August 14, 2024 Wednesday

Acts 16:27-34 (KJV)
And the keeper of the prison awaking out of his sleep, and seeing the prison doors open, he drew out his sword, and would have killed himself, supposing that the prisoners had been fled.
But Paul cried with a loud voice, saying, Do thyself no harm: for we are all here.
Then he called for a light, and sprang in, and came trembling, and fell down before Paul and Silas,
And brought them out, and said, Sirs, what must I do to be saved?
And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house.
And they spake unto him the word of the Lord, and to all that were in his house.
And he took them the same hour of the night, and washed their stripes; and was baptized, he and all his, straightway.
And when he had brought them into his house, he set meat before them, and rejoiced, believing in God with all his house.

No prison can hold the word of God

David Jacobs

I used to tutor at a prison in my home city, teaching inmates general education courses in math, history, English, and computers. Contrary to what I thought, most of the inmates were very pleasant, but they had obviously made a mistake at some point in their lives. Some inmates, however, were less pleasant, placing the harsh realities of prison life in view. I was shocked at how thirsty the inmates in the program were for education. They became even more interested and yearned for more lessons when they found out that I was a theology student. God’s word will not be denied. It will find its way everywhere.

Paul and Silas were no strangers to prison, unfortunately for them. They had been preaching about the life of Jesus when they met a soothsayer, possessed by a spirit but very profitable for her masters. Paul summoned the spirit out of her, costing her masters money, so they went to the magistrates asking for Paul and Silas to be jailed.

Now in jail after receiving many lashings, Paul and Silas pray in their cell. There was a great earthquake, opening the jail cells. When the guard sees the open cells, he takes his sword to commit suicide. Luckily for him, Paul stops him, assuring him that the prisoners are still in their cells. His act of kindness and overall demeanor must have made an impact on the jail guard, for he lets them go and asks Paul and Silas how to be saved. Soon after, he is baptized and they celebrate the life of Christ, rejoicing in his name.

Prayer
There are no walls, bars, or mountains that can stop the word of the Lord. Thanks be to God! Amen.

[4AM]

I will read it later
For Reminding i am replying

[Prayer_Warrior]

August 15, 2024 Thursday

Acts 20:26-36 (KJV)
Wherefore I take you to record this day, that I am pure from the blood of all men.
For I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God.
Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood.
For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock.
Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them.
Therefore watch, and remember, that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears.
And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified.
I have coveted no man’s silver, or gold, or apparel.
Yea, ye yourselves know, that these hands have ministered unto my necessities, and to them that were with me.
I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive.
And when he had thus spoken, he kneeled down, and prayed with them all.

Fool’s Gold

David Jacobs

In this passage the Apostle Paul shares his goodbye address with the Ephesian elders, that is, his final instructions to the church leaders in Ephesus. He has much to say, but let’s focus on the three traits that he says should characterize good shepherds (good leaders).

First, he says a good shepherd will “feed the church of God” (28) “the word of his grace” (32). The first job of a pastor is to teach the Scriptures. Your pastor may not be perfect, but if he is teaching you the Bible week in and week out, be thankful for him.

Second, a good shepherd points people to the ultimate Good Shepherd, the Lord Jesus. Paul says in verse 30 that false leaders try “to draw away disciples after them”—that is, after themselves rather than Jesus. Perhaps you serve in a pastoral or teaching role and are sometimes discouraged that your messages and lessons aren’t more exciting. But do they point people to Jesus? Do they encourage people to trust God more? Then you are being faithful and God is pleased with you.

Third, a good shepherd leads by example. That is what Paul meant when he said “I have shewed you all things, how that so laboring ye ought to support the weak” (35). He had set a good example for them in ministering to those in need. Good examples are so important! I read about a dad who was hiking with his little boy when the climb became difficult, even dangerous. The dad stopped to consider which way to go and heard a little voice over his shoulder: “Pick a good path, Dad. I’m coming right behind you.”

Prayer
We’re all examples to someone. Can others find Jesus by following in your footsteps? If not, determine today to make whatever changes are necessary to be a good shepherd.

[Prayer_Warrior]

August 16, 2024 Friday

1 Peter 2:19-25 (KJV)
For this is thankworthy, if a man for conscience toward God endure grief, suffering wrongfully.
For what glory is it, if, when ye be buffeted for your faults, ye shall take it patiently? but if, when ye do well, and suffer for it, ye take it patiently, this is acceptable with God.
For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps:
Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth:
Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not; but committed himself to him that judgeth righteously:
Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed.
For ye were as sheep going astray; but are now returned unto the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls.

The shackles of wickedness

David Jacobs

My wife’s family is not Christian. They are Buddhists, and it has been a challenge for me to accept this. Her family are nice people, good people, caring people, but have been brought up with different traditions and a different religion from my family. It is a debate that I have struggled with in my head: would Jesus not allow these good people to go to Heaven?

The lives of non-believers and other religions may seem easier and less strict than the lives of a Christian. What are the core beliefs of our religion? More than anything, we are to believe that Jesus Christ’s teachings are the way, the truth, and the life. We must hold his teachings close, cling to the goodness that they exude, and push away the wickedness of non-belief. Although it may sound blasphemous, much of the principle tenets of Buddhism, Islam, Judaism, and Hinduism are similar to our own. It is wickedness and apathy that God will judge. Apathy may seem free, but it is an apparition: without any guidance, it is the equivalent of being lost at sea. I cannot answer whether or not my wife’s family will be permitted to join us in Heaven. However, I think that Christ’s teachings are more about attempting to create a kingdom of heaven here on earth. That is why we must follow his word. My wife’s family may not be able to go to the heavenly kingdom; I am not sure. I am sure that the evil, apathetic, and lost souls will not be permitted unless they are redeemed.

Prayer
Heavenly Father, you have given us all that we need to begin building a heaven on earth, as I believe you intended by sending us your son, Jesus Christ, to teach us. Help us shape the future, molding the apathetic and evil to become your children. I pray that you do not permit me, Abba Father, to stray from your path in my vigor. Please be merciful to the good people that do not know you Lord, giving them a chance to enter your heavenly kingdom, just as you have with me. Amen.

[Prayer_Warrior]

August 17, 2024 Saturday

Revelation 2:9-17 (KJV)
I know thy works, and tribulation, and poverty, (but thou art rich) and I know the blasphemy of them which say they are Jews, and are not, but are the synagogue of Satan.
Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.
He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; He that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death.
And to the angel of the church in Pergamos write; These things saith he which hath the sharp sword with two edges;
I know thy works, and where thou dwellest, even where Satan’s seat is: and thou holdest fast my name, and hast not denied my faith, even in those days wherein Antipas was my faithful martyr, who was slain among you, where Satan dwelleth.
But I have a few things against thee, because thou hast there them that hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balac to cast a stumblingblock before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed unto idols, and to commit fornication.
So hast thou also them that hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitans, which thing I hate.
Repent; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will fight against them with the sword of my mouth.
He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the hidden manna, and will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth it.

There is only the word of God

David Jacobs

There are times when we feel like we have been stripped of everything we love. It is in these times that we must remember that having faith in Christ is what truly makes us wealthy. When I was growing up, hearing different interpretations of the scripture made me question if I was truly following the word of God. I felt “empty”. It is in the Book of Revelation where we can turn to remember that “he that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; He that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death” (Revelation 2:10). By listening to the word of Christ, and not those who use his name to promote their own ideas, we can avoid the tribulations that come from following the word of heretics.

We should expect our churches to follow the word and teachings of Christ. While there are certainly examples of institutions that misrepresent the fundamentals of Christianity, as followers of God, we need to remember that ultimately our devotion is to him. When I was overwhelmed by different people telling me how to properly be a Christian, it was in the scripture I found the courage to only follow the word of God, and comfort in my own interpretations of what it meant to be a true follower of the Lord.

Prayer
With the amount of information and news we are bombarded with on a daily basis, it is necessary for all of us to take a step back and question the validity of what we are hearing. Revelation 2:9-17 warns us of those who pretend to be someone they are not to try and persuade us to act against our better judgment.

[Prayer_Warrior]

August 18, 2024 Sunday

Revelation 4:1-11 (KJV)
After this I looked, and, behold, a door was opened in heaven: and the first voice which I heard was as it were of a trumpet talking with me; which said, Come up hither, and I will shew thee things which must be hereafter.
And immediately I was in the spirit: and, behold, a throne was set in heaven, and one sat on the throne.
And he that sat was to look upon like a jasper and a sardine stone: and there was a rainbow round about the throne, in sight like unto an emerald.
And round about the throne were four and twenty seats: and upon the seats I saw four and twenty elders sitting, clothed in white raiment; and they had on their heads crowns of gold.
And out of the throne proceeded lightnings and thunderings and voices: and there were seven lamps of fire burning before the throne, which are the seven Spirits of God.
And before the throne there was a sea of glass like unto crystal: and in the midst of the throne, and round about the throne, were four beasts full of eyes before and behind.
And the first beast was like a lion, and the second beast like a calf, and the third beast had a face as a man, and the fourth beast was like a flying eagle.
And the four beasts had each of them six wings about him; and they were full of eyes within: and they rest not day and night, saying, Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, which was, and is, and is to come.
And when those beasts give glory and honour and thanks to him that sat on the throne, who liveth for ever and ever,
The four and twenty elders fall down before him that sat on the throne, and worship him that liveth for ever and ever, and cast their crowns before the throne, saying,
Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created.

Visualize your future today

David Jacobs

It is very hard for any of us to achieve the things we desire or dream of without visualizing them. When I was fourteen years old, I recall thinking about how badly I wanted to attend my dream college. I would spend nights, lying awake, envisioning myself in a position where through my faith and determination, I achieved my goals. As we learn in Revelation 4:1-11, John has an experience where he sees God sitting on his throne and describes the beautiful scene. “And immediately I was in the spirit: and, behold, a throne was set in heaven, and one sat on the throne” (Revelation 4:2). Through John’s vision, we learn that God shows us his dedication to us and provides us with the affirmation that he is ultimately the creator of all things we see possible.

Prayer
John’s experience with God shows us that through worship, our ideal futures can become our present. As followers of Christ, it is up to us to give thanks to God, similar to the way the elders in John’s vision give thanks. “Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created.” (Revelation 4:11) In showing our appreciation for Him, the futures we visualize and hope to create can exist sooner than later. Amen.