This Day With God – A Spiritual Journey | Share The Word

Be A Believer In The Redeemer

Posted on October 27, 2015 by Mark Shields

In the post Total Attention on the Mission, written about was that Pilate and Herod did not find a reason to crucify Jesus. Pilate did what was politically correct in his day and time. In order to keep his job as a politician, he took the easy way out by doing what the people wanted.

In present times, we face the same situations. The world wants to convince us that God is not who He says He is but as we go through each day; taking walks and feeling the fresh breeze hitting our face and hearing the sounds of night that sooths our soul, we know the world is telling a lie and the ONE who created the breeze and unique music of the night is telling us the truth.

As we go through life, things can get messy but God is there to help us pick up the messes. The Redeemer makes everything new and provides for our final victory. This day with God, celebrate with this inspiring video: The Redeemer – Sanctus Real.

I keep my eyes always on the Lord. With Him at my right hand, I will not be shaken. – Psalm 16:8

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Posted in Devotionals, Focus, Music, Video | Tagged Celebration, Crucifixion, Focus, Herod, Jesus, Mission, Mount of Olives, Pilate, Politically Correct, Popularity, Purpose, Redeemer, Truth, victory | 4 Comments

Total Attention On The Mission

Posted on October 26, 2015 by Mark Shields

Reading in Luke 23:13-31, both Pilate and Herod wanted to release Jesus because they found no basis for charges against Him. Pilate wanted to punish Jesus and then release Him (v. 17). But the crowd wanted Pilate to release Barabbas who was in prison for insurrection and murder.

Repeatedly stressed in this passage is the innocence of Jesus but the mob hysteria convinced Pilate to crucify Jesus. Pilate did what was politically correct in that day and time. In order to keep his job as a politician, he took the easy way out by doing what the people wanted.

Unfortunately, politicians today base their decisions on similar thinking; popular opinion and demands from certain groups rather than what is right. Rather than focusing in on the law and common sense, what rules the day is what they think will get them elected.

Because of popular opinion, Pilate gave in and sentenced Jesus to death by crucifixion. He went through agony on the Mount of Olives; an all-night trial, chastisement, and then hung on a cross until death. He carried out the purpose for which He was sent to earth; to die for the sins of mankind.

Even under great stress and agony, Jesus had the composure to put His total attention on the mission and even gave a teaching moment as He was being led through the streets to His execution (v. 27-31). He told the mourning women not to weep for Him, but for themselves. He knew that in only about forty years, Jerusalem and the temple would be destroyed by the Romans.

Lord, this day help us to focus on Your presence, You are not distant but near so help us put our total attention on the mission You have for us. Your physical body was crucified and many mourned but Your Spirit is alive today in our hearts. The lessons You taught while on earth never change. We are thankful for the chance to internalize Your guiding principles as we learn them together on the Internet. These guiding principles will push us to focus on You in every activity throughout this day. Amen!

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Posted in Bible Study, Focus | Tagged Crucifixion, Focus, Herod, Jesus, Mission, Mount of Olives, Pilate, Popularity, Purpose | Leave a comment

Sermon Thoughts – (10/25/2015)

Posted on October 25, 2015 by Mark Shields

The final sermon from the series called “Stand – Stories of Courage” was presented last week at the church I worship at. Here is a link to the podcast of each of the sermons. http://www.fumcwaco.org/pod.html

One thought from last week’s message was that God is with us in difficulties so we can stand firm. Whatever we face, no matter what our challenge is, the God of the universe is unlimited; He provides a firm foundation for us to stand on.

This day with God, share a thought from one of the great sermons in your community or from a podcast.

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Posted in Courage, Overcome Difficulty, Sermon Thoughts, Worship Service Update | Tagged Faith, God, Miracle, Overcome Difficulty, Podcast, Power, Prayer, Sermon, Strength, Trust, Worship | Leave a comment

Boldly Step Ahead

Posted on October 24, 2015 by Mark Shields

In reading and studying Genesis 32 along my spiritual journey, I noted that Jacob took the initiative towards working things out with his brother Esau. He selected a significant number of cattle, sheep, goats, rams, camels, and donkeys as gifts for him.

As we boldly step ahead on our journey through life, let us take in this lesson of working our differences out. Instead, let us do God’s work together and eventually a flower will blossom for the world to see. This poem inspires us in that direction.

Step Ahead

Angels will help
Boldly step ahead.
On this spiritual journey
Being daily fed.

Learning new things
About God and self.
Refusing mediocrity;
Into the Word we delve.

Getting ready for the challenge
Of each and every day
By going to the ONE
Who created the Way!

Stirring each other up
To boldly step ahead.
Initiating spiritual growth
Being Bible Study led.

Reflecting on experiences
Along the journey of living.
God’s words like seeds
Take root in our giving.

Refuse to give up or stop,
Do God’s great endeavor,
And will blossom a flower
For the world to see forever.

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Posted in Devotionals, Poems | Tagged Angels, Bible Study, Challenge, Flowers, Guidance, Initiative, Journey, Path | Leave a comment

Leadership Is Not A Popularity Contest

Posted on October 23, 2015 by Mark Shields

Written about in the post The Trial of Jesus, we get a lesson in leadership. Jesus demonstrates leadership with poise, courage, and strength. On the other hand, Pilot and Herod demonstrated poor leadership skills. They couldn’t make a decision because they lacked the courage to stand up and do what was right.

With God, we can be assured of a promising future and this gives us confidence to face our challenges with confidence. We know that He is faithful. He is like a mountain; standing rock solid over time and protecting us in our time of need. We can take courage, for God is there for us. Today’s inspirational video highlights these thoughts: Whom Shall I Fear – Chris Tomlin.