From: May 2, 2014
This is the first of seven “signs” that the apostle John recorded in his gospel. John calls them signs and not miracles because signs point to something other than themselves. On a recent trip to see the Grand Canyon I noticed “Grand Canyon” road signs all along the way as we drove up from Phoenix. Yet, we didn’t fly from NC to AZ to see these signs. We didn’t stop driving until we stood before the Canyon itself! Many during Jesus’ day were attracted to his miracles, but his true disciples saw them as signs that pointed to Him. Jesus turned the water into wine at a wedding in Cana. The master of the feast and the wedding guests were enthralled with the taste of the new wine that Jesus had made, but the disciples were focused on the wine’s Maker. The whole creation is a miraculous sign pointing to the Creator, yet many worship the former without recognizing the latter (Rom. 1:19-25).
From: May 2, 2013
Samson took God’s presence and power for granted, but when Delilah shaved off his seven locks, the Lord left him. Samson didn’t even notice… until it was too late. We shouldn’t wonder at Samson’s shortcomings. We can be just like him. When we step on the slippery slope of sin, we slowly slide away from God so gradually that we barely notice. Then one day, we awake and find ourselves in trouble, asking God where He’s gone! If God’s presence moved, would you notice?
From: May 2, 2012
Jesus is passionate for God’s house. He burns with zeal for it to fulfill its divine purpose. Those who are filled with the Spirit of Christ know this. Because Christ’s zeal for the Church burns within them too!
From: May 2, 2011
Samson didn’t even notice when the Lord’s anointing left him. We can make this mistake when we make our worship and ministry too man-centered. Don’t presume the Lord’s presence in your work. Instead, join Him in His. Would you notice if He wasn’t present in your life or church?