“The God of our ancestors has chosen you to know his will and to see the Righteous One and hear him speak. For you are to be his witness, telling everyone what you have seen and heard” (Acts 22:14-15)

July 3, 2012

Jesus’ words to Paul on the road to Damascus changed the trajectory of his life. God still chooses people to be His witnesses. Will you answer His call?

“The name of the Lord is a strong fortress; the godly run to him and are safe” (Proverbs 18:10)

July 2, 2012

The very Name of the Lord is a fortress. When you are discouraged or distressed, you can find encouragement in saying His Name. Have you yet called on the Name of the Lord in this way? Do you know the power He invests in His Name? And what Name has God raised to the highest place, but the name “Jesus.” Run to Him, calling out His Name and find salvation.

“After Hezekiah received the letter from the messengers and read it, he went up to the Lord’s Temple and spread it out before the Lord” (2 Kings 19:14)

July 1, 2012

Have you ever received a threatening letter or bill? King Hezekiah did. He took it to the Lord and showed it to Him. Is anyone or anything threatening your faith or stealing your joy? Take it to God. Spread it out before Him. Ask the Lord to respond. Put your hope and trust in God.

“On the first day of the week, we gathered with the local believers to share in the Lord’s Supper. Paul was preaching to them, and since he was leaving the next day, he kept talking until midnight” (Acts 20:7)

June 30, 2012

Since the 1st century, Christians have worshiped on the 1st day of the week. We continue to share in the Lord’s Supper. Perhaps we should bring back the all day preaching till midnight too. Those 1st century folk loved the Word! Think there’s any 21st century believers like them?

“Uzziah son of Amaziah began to rule over Judah… He was sixteen years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem fifty-two years” (2 Kings 15:1-2)

June 29, 2012

Among the seemingly endless lists of kings in Israel and Judah is the mention of this king who reigned 52 years and mostly pleased the Lord. But even he didn’t finish well. It’s a disturbing litany of failed politicians. It causes one to long for a good king, one that would reign with righteousness and mercy. One that would please God fully.

“So Paul left the synagogue and took the believers with him. Then he held daily discussions at the lecture hall of Tyrannus. This went on for the next two years, so that people throughout the province of Asia—both Jews and Greeks—heard the word of the Lord” (Acts 19:9-10)

June 28, 2012

I wonder what the modern equivalent of “daily discussions at the lecture hall” would be? How can we get the Word out like Paul?

“Great is the Lord! He is most worthy of praise! No one can measure his greatness. Let each generation tell its children of your mighty acts; let them proclaim your power” (Psalm 145:3-4)

June 27, 2012

Our children learn worship from us. Teach them to worship in spirit and truth. Tell them what Christ has done and how He has saved and sanctified us! Tell of His mighty acts!

“A truly wise person uses few words; a person with understanding is even-tempered. Even fools are thought wise when they keep silent; with their mouths shut, they seem intelligent” (Proverbs 17:27-28)

June 26, 2012

Hmm… I think I’ll keep my commentary to a minimum on this… It speaks for itself.

“Believe in the Lord Jesus and you will be saved, along with everyone in your household” (Acts 16:31)

June 25, 2012

The answer Paul and Silas gave their jailer when he asked how to be saved. An important principle is implied in this story– that the head of house coming to Christ has a profound impact on the spiritual condition of the whole family. Fathers, your spiritual leadership is critical. As the father goes, so goes the family.

“I cry out to the Lord; I plead for the Lord’s mercy. I pour out my complaints before him and tell him all my troubles” (Psalm 142:1-2)

June 24, 2012

David’s prayer from a cave, while hiding from King Saul. Have you ever been in a “cave,” a place of darkness and despair? You can pray like David. God already knows what you’re thinking, so don’t hold back. Pour out your heart. Then, wait for His grace and mercy to arrive.