“But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one for the profit of all” (1 Cor 12:7). The various gifts given by the Spirit remind us that we only find our completeness when all His Body functions together. But I can have a vital part in every gift by encouraging others’ service. […]
“For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God” (Rom 8:14). Where might the Spirit lead a son? He would show me my freedom in Christ—no more a slave. He would tour with me the estate—if a son, then an heir. And He would bring me to the […]
“I will delight myself in Your statutes; I will not forget Your word” (Ps 119:16). Having a hard time remembering the Word? Putting it into a leaky memory? If you give it away by sharing it with others—that will help. But if you live it out, then it’s stored in your character! […]
“Samuel said, ‘When you were little in your own eyes, were you not head of the tribes of Israel?’” (1 Sam 15:17). Strange, isn’t it. Our defeats, when taken humbly, can lead to spiritual success; victories, when assumed to be of our own doing, can disqualify us, like Saul. Lord, keep us little in our […]
“And those of the circumcision who believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out on the Gentiles also” (Acts 10:45). The Spirit’s outpouring was promised to the Jews, but He overflows man-made distinctions. Low tide leaves many pools, but at high tide it […]
“A bruised reed He will not break, and smoking flax He will not quench” (Mt 12:20). This quote (Isa 42:3) is added at the only occasion where Jesus heals a man both mute and blind. A bruised reed: no sound; a smoking flax: no seeing. Jesus restores both our sight and our song! […]
“That the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ” (1 Pet 1:7). What something weighs can vary according to the value placed on it by the carrier. Are my trials […]
“I have surely seen the oppression…Come now, therefore, and I will send you” (Ex 3:7, 10). Evidence of the enemy’s oppression is everywhere. God sees it. What does He do? Send cherubim with flaming swords? No, people with stammering lips, like us—and so He does His work! […]
“Behold, He who keeps Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep. The Lord is your keeper…” (Ps 121:4-5). He’s the wide-awake God! Darkness and light are the same to Him. The keep in Medieval times was the most secure fortress within the castle. The Lord is both our center and circumference. […]